cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Modifying crops to increase cell wall digestibility

Improving digestibility of roughage cell walls will improve ruminant animal performance and reduce loss of nutrients to the environment. The main digestibility impediment for dicotyledonous plants is highly lignified secondary cell walls, notably in stem secondary xylem, which become almost non-digestible. Digestibility of grasses is slowed severely by lignification of most tissues, but these cell walls remain largely digestible. Cell wall lignification creates an access barrier to potentially digestible wall material by rumen bacteria if cells have not been physically ruptured. Traditional breeding has focused on increasing total dry matter digestibility rather than cell wall digestibility, which has resulted in minimal reductions in cell wall lignification. Brown midrib mutants in some annual grasses exhibit small reductions in lignin concentration and improved cell wall digestibility. Similarly, transgenic approaches down-regulating genes in monolignol synthesis have produced plants with reduced lignin content and improved cell wall digestibility. While major reductions in lignin concentration have been associated with poor plant fitness, smaller reductions in lignin provided measurable improvements in digestibility without significantly impacting agronomic fitness. Additional targets for genetic modification to enhance digestibility and improve roughages for use as biofuel feedstocks are discussed; including manipulating cell wall polysaccharide composition, novel lignin structures, reduced lignin/polysaccharide cross-linking, smaller lignin polymers, enhanced development of non-lignified tissues, and targeting specific cell types. Greater tissue specificity of transgene expression will be needed to maximize benefits while avoiding negative impacts on plant fitness.cauliflower mosiac virus (CaMV) 35S promoter Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.
The analysis of the molecular species of fetal rabbit lung phosphatidylcholine by consecutive chromatographic techniques.

The major molecular species of pulmonary phosphatidylcholine in the fetal rabbit were analyzed as the diacylglycerol acetate derivatives. After fractionation by Ag+ thin-layer chromatography according to the degree of unsaturation, the intact diacylglycerol acetates were analyzed by gas-liquid chromatography to obtain the carbon number composition. The methyl esters of these acetates were used to obtain the fatty acid profiles. The composition of the molecular species was derived from these sets of data. The proportions of 16: 016: 0, 14: 016: 0 and 16: 016: 1 increased with gestation, while 16: 018: 1 decreased. The concentration of 16: 016: 0 increased about 50% the last two days of gestation while 16:016:1 increased about 300%. The possibility that 16: 016: 1 is a precursor of 16: 016: 0 via biohydrogenation is discussed.
Viscoelasticity of the giant reed material Arundo donax

An average value (n=22) of Young’s modulus in the axial direction of woodwind reed grade Arundo donax has been determined from 10-5 s to 104 s, at room temperature in both the “ambient-dry” and “saturated-wet” states, using ultrasonic to creep measurements. A broad relaxation in the modulus occurs between 10-3 s and 10-1 s, in keeping with results obtained by others in previous experiments at 0.034 s in flexural resonance bar measurements. The modulus-versus-time results are fitted to a Maxwell–Weichert phenomenological model. This model allows the room temperature viscoelastic properties to be predicted as a function of frequency. The model predicts the measured damping quite well in the relaxation region. Measurements at the ultrasonic frequency of 60 kHz were made over the temperature range −35 to +35°C to seek other relaxations. The so-called α-peak found at low frequencies (0.05 to 110 Hz) by other researchers appears to have been observed at the ultrasonic frequency.
The agricultural marketing system

MARKETING, MARKET COMPETITION AND CONSUMER MARKETS: Agricultural Marketing: An Introduction The Competitive Environment Agricultural Production and Marketing The Functions, Structure and Market Alternatives of Agribusiness: What Agribusiness Firms Do The Domestic Market The International Market THE MARKETING SYSTEM: Place and Time Aspects of Marketing Futures Markets and Price Risks Matching Quantities Supplied and Demanded: The Process of Price Determination Pricing and Exchange Systems and Alternatives within the Marketing-procurement Channel Providing the Optimum Varieties and Qualities Participation and Leadership in the Marketing-Procurement Channels Marketing by Farmer Groups Processor Procurement Systems Processor Marketing Wholesale- Retail and Food Service Structure and Procurement Food Retail and Food Service Marketing PUBLIC POLICY ISSUES IN MARKETING- PROCUREMENT: Policy Issues: Consumer Interests Policy Issues: Food Prices, Supply Adequacy and Farmers' Incomes Policy Issues: Maintaining Competition Policy Issues: Who Will Control the Agricultural Marketing-Procurement Systems? Index.
Electric field induced force within the red blood cell membrane

Electric-field-induced surface traction (surface force density) within the red blood cell (RBC) membrane was examined. The RBC was modeled as a spheroid with a membrane of finite thickness. Surface traction within the RBC was derived using Maxwell's stress tensor. The derivation results suggested that both a compressive force and a net outward pushing force were acting on the RBC membrane. The interaction between these two forces and the RBC membrane was examined. >
Reconstitution of the Dermal Barrier to Fluid Diffusion Following Administration of Hyaluronidase.

SummaryThe reconstitution of the dermal barrier removed by intradermal injection of various doses of hyaluronidase has been studied 24 and 48 hours after enzyme injection in adult humans. At 24 hours the restoration of the barrier is incomplete and inversely related to the dosage of enzyme; at 48 hours the barrier is completely restored in all enzyme-treated areas.
Bug-fix time prediction models: can we do better?

Predicting bug-fix time is useful in several areas of software evolution, such as predicting software quality or coordinating development effort during bug triaging. Prior work has proposed bug-fix time prediction models that use various bug report attributes (e.g., number of developers who participated in fixing the bug, bug severity, number of patches, bug-opener's reputation) for estimating the time it will take to fix a newly-reported bug. In this paper we take a step towards constructing more accurate and more general bug-fix time prediction models by showing how existing models fail to validate on large projects widely-used in bug studies. In particular, we used multivariate and univariate regression testing to test the prediction significance of existing models on 512,474 bug reports from five open source projects: Eclipse, Chrome and three products from the Mozilla project (Firefox, Seamonkey and Thunderbird). The results of our regression testing indicate that the predictive power of existing models is between 30% and 49% and that there is a need for more independent variables (attributes) when constructing a prediction model. Additionally, we found that, unlike in prior recent studies on commercial software, in the projects we examined there is no correlation between bug-fix likelihood, bug-opener's reputation and the time it takes to fix a bug. These findings indicate three open research problems: (1) assessing whether prioritizing bugs using bug-opener's reputation is beneficial, (2) identifying attributes which are effective in predicting bug-fix time, and (3) constructing bug-fix time prediction models which can be validated on multiple projects.
Individual cell migration analysis using fiber-optic bundles.

In this paper we describe a novel optical fiber-based technology for analyzing cell migration. Cells were labeled with a membrane-bound fluorescent dye and distributed onto a polished optical fiber bundle. When a cell passes over one of the individual fibers in the bundle, the membrane-bound dye causes a large intensity increase, which stays for a given “residence time” until the cell departs from the fiber. Residence time increases significantly upon exposure to an antimigratory drug, indicating a decrease in cell migration. This approach provides a simple migration assay and does not require sophisticated tracking software. By using optical fiber bundles containing smaller individual fibers with higher spatial resolution, this approach was employed to develop a migration assay based on subcellular imaging. The subcellular imaging platform allows for rapid analysis of migratory potential, reducing experimental time from several hours in a standard assay to 5 min using this technology.
Use of tegaserod along with polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution for colonoscopy bowel preparation: A prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study

Summary Background Polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution (PEG-EL) used for colonoscopy preparation is not well tolerated by several patients. A significant number of patients have inadequate bowel preparation despite taking PEG-EL. Aims To determine the effect of prokinetic agent, tegaserod when given in addition to PEG-EL on patient tolerance, quality of colonic preparation and adverse side effects experienced. Methods In this prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study, a total of 130 patients scheduled for colonoscopy were enrolled. They were instructed to take three pills of either tegaserod 6 mg each or placebo (one pill twice on the day prior to and third pill in the morning on the day of colonoscopy) in addition to standard 4L of PEG-EL in the evening prior to the day of colonoscopy. Patient tolerance of preparation, quality of bowel preparation, overall satisfaction and adverse side effects were compared between the two groups. Results Fifty-five patients in placebo group and 58 patients in tegaserod group completed the study. There was no difference between the two groups in the tolerance of preparation, quality of bowel preparation, overall satisfaction and the side effects. Conclusion Addition of tegaserod to polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution during colonoscopy preparation does not improve patient tolerance, quality of colonic preparation or the adverse side effects.
Multiresolution image registration procedure using spline pyramids

We present an iterative multiresolution algorithm for the translational and rotational alignment of digital images. An image is represented by an interpolating spline. Coarser versions of this continuous image model are obtained by using spline approximations at various scales (polynomial spline pyramid). We use a coarse-to-fine updating strategy to compute the alignment parameters iteratively, using a variation of the Levenberg-Marquardt non-linear least-squares optimization method. This approach yields very precise image registration with subpixel accuracy. It is also much faster and more robust than a comparable single-scale implementation, because the resolution of the underlying image mode is adapted to the step size of the algorithm.
Glutathione conjugation of microsome-mediated and synthetic aflatoxin B1-8,9-oxide by purified glutathione S-transferases from rats.

Abstract Glutathione (GSH) conjugation of microsome-mediated and synthetic aflatoxin B1 (AFB1)-epoxide and styrene oxide has been investigated with purified GSH S-transferases (GSTs) from rats. Both styrene oxide and AFB1-epoxide were conjugated preferentially by mμ GSTs 3-3, 3–4 and 4-4 as compared to alpha GSTs 1-1, 1–2 and 2-2. The highest catalytic activity with styrene oxide conjugation was associated with GST 4-4. The highest catalytic activity with microsome-mediated AFB1-epoxide conjugation was observed with GST 3-3 whereas with the synthetic AFB1-epoxide conjugation was seen with GST 4-4. The catalytic activity of pi GST 7-7 was intermediate to mμ and alpha GSTs. It is suggested that GST 3-3 may play an important role in inactivation of AFB1-epoxide generated in vivo in the rat.
Rates of chain growth and units of replication in DNA of mammalian chromosomes.

Abstract The rate of DNA chain growth was measured in Chinese hamster cells in culture by the use of the density label [ 3 H]bromodeoxyuridine and an inhibitor of thymidylate synthesis, fluorodeoxyuridine. After 5 to 15 minutes of growth in which the analog was substituted for thymidine, the DNA was extracted, sheared and banded in a CsCl gradient. On the basis of the ratio of label in fully substituted DNA fragments to that in partially substituted ones produced by breakage across junction points between segments of bromouracil hybrid and unsubstituted DNA, the rates of DNA chain growth were estimated. In cells growing under the best conditions, the chains appear to be growing at the rate of 1 to 2 μ per minute. For periods of growth that allow the substituted segments to become about twice the length of the fragments produced by shear, the bromouracil-substituted segments are broken nearly at random interstitially and across the junction points with unsubstituted DNA. However, after longer intervals, the indications are that breakage across junctions may be non-random in that some junctions are less susceptible to breakage by shear than regions between junctions. The suggestion is made that these may represent junctions between units of replication (replicons). Since larger segments of chromosomes or whole chromosome arms in some cases incorporate [ 3 H]thymidine for only about three hours in a replication cycle, the maximum size of a replicon in such regions would be the amount of DNA which can grow at the measured rate of 1 to 2 μ per minute in that time. However, some of the gradient profiles reveal a high proportion of partially substituted DNA with bromouracil segments only 1 to 2 μ long. Therefore, the large continuous pieces of DNA in chromosomes may be assembled by the end-to-end joining of rather small subunits during replication.
Support for information systems usage in banks

Information systems (IS) technology plays a critical role in both the strategic and tactical operations of commercial banks. A study of several banks in the USA reveals various areas where support is needed for successful operation of IS. Three areas emerged from the study, namely (a) installation and updates, (b) problem solving, and (c) training and documentation. Training and documentation were the areas most lacking in support. Managers should strive for better support in this area from internal IS departments and from software vendors. A valid instrument is provided for measuring current IS support levels and for identifying and improving deficient areas.
Morphological Changes during Secondary Crystallization and Subsequent Melting in Poly(ether ether ketone) as Studied by Real Time Small Angle X-ray Scattering

In this paper, we present results of morphological studies during long time melt crystallization and subsequent melting in poly(aryl ether ether ketone) (PEEK). Morphological changes were monitored via small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). SAXS data were analyzed via a combination of the correlation and interface distribution functions. Our analysis indicates the following: (1) The semicrystalline morphology is best described by a three-phase, dual lamellar stack model. Stacks of a finite number of lamellae and interlamellar amorphous layers are separated from each other by interstack regions of amorphous material (liquid pockets). (2) Secondary crystallization occurs via the formation of secondary lamellar stacks within the liquid pockets. Secondary lamellae are thinner than primary lamellae (70 A vs 120 A), and the amorphous layer thicknesses are about 47 A in both stacks. (3) The low endotherm observed during a heating scan is associated with the melting of the secondary lamellae. (4) At room temperatu...
Quantification of Errors in Ordinal Outcome Scales Using Shannon Entropy: Effect on Sample Size Calculations

Objective Clinical trial outcomes often involve an ordinal scale of subjective functional assessments but the optimal way to quantify results is not clear. In stroke, the most commonly used scale, the modified Rankin Score (mRS), a range of scores (“Shift”) is proposed as superior to dichotomization because of greater information transfer. The influence of known uncertainties in mRS assessment has not been quantified. We hypothesized that errors caused by uncertainties could be quantified by applying information theory. Using Shannon’s model, we quantified errors of the “Shift” compared to dichotomized outcomes using published distributions of mRS uncertainties and applied this model to clinical trials.
Cold water stress analgesia in rats: Differential effects of naltrexone

Abstract Cold water swim (CWS, 2°C, 3.5 min) decreases the responsiveness to nociceptive stimuli in rats. The influence of various parameters of the CWS condition on stress-induced analgesia were evaluated by means of naltrexone effects. Naltrexone dose-dependently (but significantly only at high doses—21 mg/kg) partially antagonized 3.5 minute continuous CWS analgesia. Its effect was proportional to the duration of CWS. Naltrexone (14 mg/kg) significantly antagonized intermittent CWS-analgesia (18 10-sec exposures, 3/min) and enhanced the analgesia induced by 60 consecutive exposures (1 sec each, 12/min). These results demonstrate that naltrexone differentially affects CWS-analgesia, depending on specific parametric conditions of the stressor. In addition to activation of a non-specific naltrexone-insensitive analgesia-inducing system (not reduced by the drug in all the conditions studied) there appear to be three naltrexone sensitive systems: (1) a non-opioid analgesia-inducing system which mediates continuous CWS-analgesia; (2) an opioid analgesia-inducing system, involved in intermittent CWS-analgesia; and (3) a naltrexone-sensitive system which opposes the analgesic effect of 60 consecutive exposures. Thus, a highly specific relationship exists between certain parameters of the cold water stressor and the nature of the mechanisms which subserve the induced analgesia.
Sexual quality of life in men with prostate cancer

The sexual side effects of prostate cancer treatments long have been of interest to researchers and clinicians alike. Except for observation only treatment, all interventions for neoplasms of the prostate carry a high probability for iatrogenic sexual dysfunction, specifically diminished sexual desire, erectile dysfunction, and lack of ejaculation. Even the untreated patient has to cope with the fact that he has cancer. Having to face his own mortality perhaps for the first time may lead the patient to suffer emotional difficulties, and this realization can interfere with a man's sexual self-image and his sexual desire and performance. Aside from experiencing physical side effects, men treated for localized and advanced stage disease have to cope with an assault on their sense of masculinity after their genitals and/or hormonal functioning have been altered. This paper explores the issue of sexual impairment in patients with prostate cancer. Because of the far-reaching consequences of prostate cancer treatment for a man self-image, includes not only sexual functioning, but the related aspects of male sexuality. The available literature is discussed, and clinical observations regarding this population are offered and formulated in terms of future direction for quality-of-life research with this population. Cancer 1995 ;75 :1949-53.
Growth inhibition of MCF-7 breast cancer cells by stable expression of an insulin-like growth factor I receptor antisense ribonucleic acid

Insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) play an important role in cellular proliferation, and IGF action appears to be involved in tumorigenesis. To determine the role of the IGF-I receptor in breast cancer cell growth, we stably transfected MCF-7 breast cancer cells with a construct encoding an antisense RNA complementary to the region surrounding the translation initiation site of the IGF-I receptor messenger RNA (mRNA). Control cells were transfected with vector alone. Clones expressing the antisense RNA exhibited a 30% reduction in endogenous IGF-I receptor mRNA levels and a significant reduction in receptor protein levels, as measured by both ligand binding assays and Western blot analysis. Antisense-expressing clones expressed approximately 30,000 receptors/cell compared with approximately 48,000-58,000 receptors/cell in control (neo) cells (P < 0.05). Although endogenous RNA:RNA hybrids were demonstrable in antisense-expressing cells, our results suggest that the major effect of the antisense may be the reduction in mRNA levels and not via an inhibition of translation. The reduction in receptor expression reduced both IGF-I- and serum-stimulated cellular proliferation. The maximum cell number reached at 96 h in the presence of IGF-I (100 ng/ml) was significantly reduced in antisense-expressing clones (22,000-30,000) compared with that in control (neo) cells (39,000-42,000). Furthermore, IGF-I-induced c-fos gene expression was reduced by 30% in the clones expressing the antisense RNA. These results strongly support a role for the IGF-I receptor in the proliferation of human breast cancer cells and suggest that strategies using this type of technology may prove useful in cancer therapy.
Sarcoidosis of the cauda equina mimicking Guillain-Barré syndrome

Neurosarcoidosis is a great mimicker. It is often difficult to diagnose particularly when there is no prior history of systemic sarcoidosis. Although certain sites of the neuraxis are more commonly involved than others, any site of the central or peripheral nervous system can be affected. We report a case of sarcoidosis involving the cauda equina in a 38-year-old African American male without prior history of systemic disease. Initial clinical presentation was suggestive of Guillian-Barre syndrome, but the evaluation proved this case to be neurosarcoidosis involving the cauda equina. We have followed this patient for 8 years, and he remains clinically stable on prednisone 5 mg/day.
Abstract CN01-01: Opportunities for systemic treatment using siRNA in nanoparticles.

Systemic delivery of siRNA has the potential to revolutionize cancer therapy. This technology is indifferent to the “druggability” of the target, and therefore opens up opportunities to target cancers driven by mutant RAS genes, or by MYC, β-catenin, and so on. Furthermore, elimination of well-established drug targets such as EGF-R could circumvent the problem of drug resistance. Complex mixtures of siRNAs can be loaded into nanoparticles, facilitating knock-down of genes that confer adaptive resistance, as well as potentiating the effects of knocking down driver genes by eliminating passengers. In addition to these opportunities, systemic delivery of siRNA has another major advantage, which could greatly accelerate the rate of drug development, while decreasing costs and risk of failure. One a system is proven safe and effective to deliver a specific siRNA or cocktail, the same system can be used repeatedly for different payloads. This is in marked contrast with the current approach of developing individual chemical entities, each with its own safety profile and its own ADME characteristics, Effective delivery requires nanoparticles with certain physical and chemical properties, but these particles need to be internalized into cells through surface receptors. The physical properties and internalizing ligands add selectivity to the particles, in addition to the expected selectivity of the siRNA payload. Together these considerations raise the possibility of a new generation of safe and effective therapies for treating cancer. Citation Information: Mol Cancer Ther 2013;12(11 Suppl):CN01-01. Citation Format: Frank McCormick. Opportunities for systemic treatment using siRNA in nanoparticles. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR-NCI-EORTC International Conference: Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics; 2013 Oct 19-23; Boston, MA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Ther 2013;12(11 Suppl):Abstract nr CN01-01.
On the organization of memory in the optomotor system of the crab pachygrapsus crassipes

Memory responses of the optomotor system to rotations of various stripe patterns were studied. The separate elements of the visual background are individually remembered in terms of the parts of the eye on which their images fell. A visual illusion resulting from this property is described. All parts of the retina have an equal capacity to contribute to memory. The memory response results from the summation of contributions from individual elements rather than the maintenance of a fixation upon any particular feature of the situation. Both the separation between background elements for angles from 6 degrees up to 60 degrees and the number of elements present affect the size of the memory evoked response.
Novel Synthesis of Orthopaedic Implant Materials

Co and Ti based alloys, as well as stainless steels, are the major metallic materials used for orthopaedic products. Among these, CoCrMo alloys demonstrate perhaps the most useful balance of resistance to corrosion, fatigue and wear, along with strength and biocompatibility. Currently, these alloys are produced by conventional furnace technology. In the present work, the authors report a novel technique, low-pressure combustion synthesis, to obtain pore-free CoCrMo orthopaedic implants without applied force in a single step. The materials show unique microstructures and enhanced properties.
Empirical evaluation of solution models for pelitic minerals and their application to thermobarometry

One of the major sources of uncertainty for thermobarometry in pelitic rocks is the inability of solution models to represent accurately the non-ideal behavior of important pelitic minerals, in particular garnet, biotite, and plagioclase. In recent years, a large number of different solution models have been proposed for these phases. The purpose here is to test the effects on the overall uncertainty of the most commonly-used solution models using the garnet-muscovite-annite-plagioclase (GMAP) barometer and the empirical calibration technique. The GMAP reaction has been empirically calibrated several times with varying results, due in large part to the choice of solution models. The method's dependence on the choice of solution model makes it an excellent was in which to address the quality of specific models. By repeating the calibration exercise for different combinations of solution models, it is possible to determine which set of solution models results in the lowest uncertainties, using a sample set of 72 published electron microprobe analyses of pelitic rocks containing the assemblage garnet+muscovite+biotite +plagioclase+aluminum silicate+quartz. As an independent test of the suitability of solution models, we compare the fit of the sample set to the kyanite-sillimanite equilibrium curve, obtaining thermobarometric estimates by simultaneous solution of the garnet-biotite exchange thermometer and GMAP calibrated from thermochemical data.
Mutations in src homology regions 2 and 3 of activated chicken c-src that result in preferential transformation of mouse or chicken cells.

Abstract src homology regions 2 and 3 (SH2 and SH3) of proteins encoded by src and closely related genes are conserved domains believed to modulate the protein-tyrosine kinase activity of this class of proteins, perhaps through interactions with other proteins. To explore the possibility of using src mutants as probes for such interactions, we have compared mouse NIH 3T3 cells with chicken embryo fibroblasts as host cells for 24 previously described substitution and deletion mutants with lesions in the SH2- and SH3-encoding regions of a transformation-competent allele of chicken c-src. Although several of these mutants are equally competent or equally defective for transformation of the two cell types, four mutants (three of which map within SH3) preferentially transform NIH 3T3 cells, and seven mutants (all of which map within SH2) preferentially transform chicken cells. Some of the SH2 mutants least able to transform mouse cells exhibit augmented transforming activity in chicken cells. In general, the in vitro protein-tyrosine kinase activities of the mutants correlated with transforming activities. Thus, in many cases, the catalytic activity of a mutant protein depended upon the host cell in which the protein was made. Such host-dependent mutants may be especially useful reagents for biochemical and genetic studies of the src gene family.
Characterizations of linear suboptimality for mathematical programs with equilibrium constraints

The paper is devoted to the study of a new notion of linear suboptimality in constrained mathematical programming. This concept is different from conventional notions of solutions to optimization-related problems, while seems to be natural and significant from the viewpoint of modern variational analysis and applications. In contrast to standard notions, it admits complete characterizations via appropriate constructions of generalized differentiation in nonconvex settings. In this paper we mainly focus on various classes of mathematical programs with equilibrium constraints (MPECs), whose principal role has been well recognized in optimization theory and its applications. Based on robust generalized differential calculus, we derive new results giving pointwise necessary and sufficient conditions for linear suboptimality in general MPECs and its important specifications involving variational and quasivariational inequalities, implicit complementarity problems, etc.
Integrated Maintenance Decision-Making and Product Sequencing in Flexible Manufacturing Systems

In highly flexible and integrated manufacturing systems, such as semiconductor manufacturing, the strong dynamic interactions between the equipment condition, operations executed on the equipment, and the resulting product quality necessitate a methodology that integrates the decision-making process across the domains of maintenance scheduling and production operations. Currently, maintenance and production operations decision-making are two decoupled processes. In this paper, we devise an integrated decision-making policy for maintenance scheduling and production sequencing, with the objective of optimizing a customizable objective function, while taking into account operation-dependent degradation models and a production target. Optimization was achieved using a metaheuristic method based on the results of discrete-event simulations of the target manufacturing system. The new approach is demonstrated in simulations of a generic cluster tool routinely used in semiconductor manufacturing. The results show that jointly making maintenance and production sequencing decisions consistently and often significantly outperforms the current practice of making these decisions separately.
ST-2, a Telomere and Subtelomere Duplex and G-strand Binding Protein Activity in Trypanosoma brucei

From Trypanosoma brucei, we identified ST-2, a protein complex that interacts with telomeric DNA and exhibits novel features. It binds specifically to the double-stranded telomere repeats (TTAGGG) and more tightly to the subtelomere 29-base pair elements that separate the telomere repeats from their proximal telomere-associated sequences. Interestingly, ST-2 showed still greater affinity for the G-rich strand of the telomere present either as an overhang or in a single-stranded form, but it exhibited the highest affinity for the G-rich strand of the subtelomere repeats. The binding characteristics of ST-2 are complementary to those of ST-1, a 39-kDa polypeptide we previously identified in T. brucei (Eid, J., and Sollner-Webb, B. (1995) Mol. Cell. Biol.15, 389–397) that binds preferentially to the C-rich strands of the subtelomere and telomere repeats. UV cross-linking revealed five polypeptides of ST-2 that bind directly to the G-rich strand of the DNA, one of which is phosphorylated. Furthermore, the presence of ST-1 is critical for ST-2 complex binding both to the G-rich strand and to the duplex DNA, evidently as part of the ST-2 complex. This indicates that when binding to the duplex subtelomere and telomere repeats, ST-2 may act as a protein bridge with its ST-1 subunit binding to the C-rich strand and its five other cross-linkable polypeptides binding to the G-rich strand. Such an association could serve to hold the genomic subtelomeric and telomeric sequences in a partially single-stranded configuration to facilitate the recombinational events in this region that are crucial to the parasite.
c-di-AMP binds the ydaO riboswitch in two pseudo-symmetry–related pockets

The ydaO riboswitch, involved in sporulation, osmotic stress responses and cell wall metabolism, targets the second messenger cyclic-di-AMP with subnanomolar affinity. We have solved the structure of c-di-AMP bound to the Thermoanaerobacter tengcongensis ydaO riboswitch, thereby identifying a five-helical scaffold containing a zippered-up bubble, a pseudoknot and long-range tertiary base pairs. Highlights include the identification of two c-di-AMP binding pockets on the same face of the riboswitch, related by pseudo-two-fold symmetry, with potential for cross-talk between sites mediated by adjacently positioned base-stacking alignments connecting pockets. The adenine rings of bound c-di-AMP molecules are wedged between bases and stabilized by stacking, base-sugar and sugar-sugar intermolecular hydrogen bonding interactions. The structural studies are complemented by isothermal titration calorimetry-based binding studies of mutants mediating key tertiary intermolecular contacts. The T. tengcongensis ydaO riboswitch, like its Bacillus subtilis counterpart, most likely functions through a transcription termination mechanism, with the c-di-AMP bound state representing an 'off' switch.
Influence of metakaolin surface area on properties of cement-based materials

Two metakaolins, with similar mineralogical composition but which vary in their surface area (11.1 versus 25.4 m2 ∕g ), were evaluated for use as supplementary cementitious materials through measurements of workability, setting time, strength, elastic modulus, heat evolution, calcium hydroxide (CH) content, and surface area. Compressive and flexural strength of concrete were greater and increased at a faster rate when the finer metakaolin was used, as expected. The addition of metakaolin increased early age (i.e., 1–3 days ) flexural strength by as much as 60%. The effect of metakaolin surface area on compressive strength was particularly evident at the lower water-to-cementitious materials ratios (w/cms) examined and generally at later ages (i.e., 7 days or later). However, although greater in the metakaolin–cement concretes than the ordinary concretes (particularly at the lowest w/cm examined, 0.40) elastic modulus measured at 28 days , was not affected by the metakaolin surface area. The greater surfac...
Consumption opportunities and the real value of the external debt

Abstract Developing countries have, in the period since the oil shock of 1973–1974, built up large external indebtedness. At the same time world inflation has in good part eroded the real value of existing debts. But the measurement of the inflation effects on real debt depend critically on which among a number of deflators is selected. The deflators proposed in this context have traditionally been export prices, import prices or prices in world trade. This paper argues that the correct deflator is the domestic consumer price index. Using the consumer price index as a debt deflator it is readily shown that conventional results in trade theory are recovered in the presence of external indebtedness: The income effect of an export price increase is proportional to the level of exports, the income effect of an import price increase is proportional to the level of imports. Real income, using a comprehensive income measure, is equal to the value of domestic output less the real value of real interest payments on external debt.
Bayesian analysis of the two-part model with endogeneity: application to health care expenditure

This paper studies the effect of managed care on medical expenditure using a model in which the insurance status is assumed to be endogenous. Insurance plan choice is modeled through the multinomial probit model. The medical expenditure variable, the outcome of interest, has a significant proportion of zeros that are handled using the two-part model, extended to handle endogenous insurance. The estimation approach is Bayesian, based on the Gibbs Sampler. The model is applied to a sample of 20 460 individuals obtained from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey. The results provide substantial evidence of selectivity. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Isotype-specific human B lymphocytes that produce immunoglobulin E in vitro when stimulated by pokeweed mitogen

Abstract Normal human peripheral blood lymphocytes can be stimulated by PWM and T cells to produce IgE in vitro. Between 4% and 10% of circulating B lymphocytes were found to bear noncytophilic membrane IgE. In contrast, limiting dilution analysis of reactive B cell precursor frequency revealed that only about 1 in 50,000 B cells was responsible for the synthesis of IgE in vitro. Variation in the precursor frequency was primarily responsible for differences in the amount of IgE produced in vitro by different individuals while the amount of IgE produced per precursor cell was relatively constant. B lymphocytes with surface IgM, IgG, or IgE were depleted. Depletion of IgE-bearing cells decreased IgE production 70% to 83% while IgM-bearing-cell removal lowered IgE synthesis by 59% to 72%. Dual removal of IgM- and IgE-bearing cells did not give an additive effect. IgE- and IgM-positive B cells showed enhanced IgE synthesis of 327% and 182%, respectively. The consequences of crosslinking different surface isotypes on subsequent IgE production were also assessed. Anti-ϵ treatment inhibited IgE production up to 68% while anti-μ, treatment decreased it by up to 38%. Thus only a very limited subset of B lymphocytes is responsible for PWM and T cell-dependent IgE synthesis in vitro and these cells probably bear both surface IgE and IgM.
A Model of the Renal Cortex and Medulla

Abstract Mathematical models of the renal cortex and medulla are developed. The glomerular filtration rate is treated as an input parameter. The differential equations for transfer of water and solutes are developed under the assumption that the primary driving forces are the osmotic effect of the plasma proteins and the active transport of one solute across the walls of the nephric tubules. The system of simultaneous ordinary differential equations obtained for the stationary state for constant inputs in the medulla present a multiple-point boundary-value problem of some complexity. In the course of developing the model a number of problems were unearthed. First, it became apparent that the commonly accepted countercurrent exchange model for the medullary capillaries is not supported by anatomical studies and that a distributed capillary bed model might give a truer picture. Second, it became obvious that the information available on the sodium pump is as yet insufficient to let us decide unambiguously whether the pump is reversible or irreversible.
Effects of Regular-Sized and Nanosized Hydrated Lime on Binder Rheology and Surface Free Energy of Adhesion of Foamed Warm Mix Asphalt

Although foamed warm mix asphalt (WMA) offers many potential benefits, there are some performance concerns. Researchers are making efforts to study the usage of different additives as modifiers to meet standard specifications of asphalt mixes for paving applications; however, selection of an appropriate modifier is extremely important to better performing asphalt. In recent years, there has been a dramatic interest in research, technology, and production of nanoparticles (nanomaterials). The current study was conducted with the objective of addressing the potential benefits of using nanosized hydrated lime (NHL) compared with regular-sized hydrated lime (RHL) as a modifier to the WMA produced using an additive. This paper documents the findings of the effect of NHL and RHL on the asphalt binder rheology and provides an insight into their effect on the free energy of adhesion of the asphalt binder-aggregate system. The rheology of asphalt binder was investigated based on the dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) test, whereas the free energy of adhesion was quantified based on the surface free energy (SFE) measurements of the asphalt binders and aggregate. Rheology results showed that the addition of NHL in smaller amounts can provide improved characteristics as compared with RHL. In concurrence with the rheology results, the free energy of adhesion showed that the NHL is more competitive compared with the RHL. Foaming the asphalt binder adversely affects the asphalt binder-to-aggregate adhesion.
The Expanding Role of Bevacizumab in the Treatment of Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2-Negative Breast Cancer

A growing body of evidence consistently demonstrates the activity of bevacizumab, a monoclonal antibody that targets all isoforms of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A, in combination with chemotherapy in the treatment of patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative, metastatic breast cancer. Clinical benefit has been limited to prolonged progression-free survival. As yet, combination regimens have failed to demonstrate a survival advantage. Emerging research suggests that single-nucleotide polymorphism in VEGF may predict response to combined therapy.
A Major Step on the Road to Understanding a Unique Posttranslational Modification and Its Role in a Genetic Disease

The posttranslational conversion of cysteine to Cα-formylglycine in the catalytic site of mammalian sulfatases is deficient in the rare but devastating disorder multiple sulfatase deficiency (MSD). Two papers in this issue of Cell (Dierks et al., 2003; Cosma et al., 2003) report the cloning of a gene responsible for this activity.
Wnt Signaling Pathways Mediated by Ca2+ and Cyclic GMP

Wnts are secreted glycoprotein ligands that bind to and signal through Frizzleds, which are receptors of the seven-transmembrane, heterotrimeric guanine nucleotide-binding protein (G protein) -coupled receptor family. Wnt-Frizzled signaling is critical in a wide spectrum of developmental roles including cell fate, polarity, differentiation, migration, and proliferation. The Wnt family in mammals includes nearly 20 members and some, such as Wnt-4, -5A, and -11, activate Frizzleds that do not normally lead to the stabilization of intracellular concentrations of β-catenin, but instead operate largely in a β-catenin-independent manner. Studies (first in Xenopus and zebrafish, and later in mammalian cells) demonstrated that activation of Frizzled-2 by Wnt-5A stimulated the phosphatidylinositol pathway and an increase in intracellular Ca 2+ concentration. Characterization of the proximal signaling revealed that Wnt-5A activates Frizzled-2, G proteins, and the G protein effector phospholipase Cβ (PLCβ), stimulating an accumulation of intracellular inositol trisphosphate (IP 3 ) and diacylglycerol (DAG). Elevation of IP 3 leads to intracellular Ca 2+ release and subsequent activation of Ca 2+ -calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II, as well as the calcium-sensitive protein phosphatase calcineurin. Elevation of intracellular DAG activates protein kinase C (PKC). These pathways allow Wnt-5A to regulate the activity of transcription factors that control those genes activated in response to Wnt-5A. The G protein G t2 (known also as transducin2) and its effector, guanosine 3′,5′-monophosphate (cyclic GMP) phosphodiesterase, are activated also by the Wnt-Frizzled-2 pathway. The sharp decline in intracellular cyclic GMP, which can be blocked by selective cyclic GMP phosphodiesterase inhibitors, is required for Wnt-5A stimulation of primitive endoderm formation in mouse totipotent teratocarcinoma cells and Wnt-5A stimulation of early development in zebrafish embryos. Science Viewpoint H.-y. Wang, C. C. Malbon, Wnt signaling, Ca 2+ , and cyclic GMP: Visualizing Frizzled functions. Science 300 , 1529-1530 (2003). [Abstract] [Full Text]
Recruiting a special sample with sparse resources: lessons from a study of Gulf War veterans.

BackgroundRecruitment is the most common failure point for clinical studies, with recruitment failure adversely affecting science, dollar costs, human capital, and the ethical risk–benefit trade-off to study participants. Added problems attend recruitment of special and/or challenging candidate populations, particularly in settings of sparse recruitment resources. Obstacles to study recruitment and participation of ill Gulf War veterans (GWVs) include health barriers, work and family obligations, mistrust of the medical/scientific community, and challenges to identifying/reaching potential participants.PurposeWe sought to identify and implement a minimal-cost multipronged recruitment approach for a small single-site (<50 participants) study of a special group, ill GWVs, with approaches substantially applicable to other recruitment settings and larger multisite studies.MethodsCategories of recruitment approach included directed as well as general media, collaborations with support groups/interest groups, l...
Testing the path delay faults of ISCAS85 circuit c6288

It is known that the ISCAS85 circuit c6288 contains an exponential number of paths and more than 99% of the path delay faults are untestable. Most ATPG tools, which can efficiently handle other circuits, fail on c6288. The logic structure ofc6288 is studied and the main features, which cause false paths, are revealed. A heuristic, which significantly helps the path delay fault test generation for this circuit, is presented. Experimental results show that our methodology is able to efficiently generate testable paths for c6288.
Target tracking in sensor networks using statistical graphical models

Recent advancement in sensor networks provides a platform for applications that requires in-network data fusion and parallel algorithms. However, processing data in parallel while propagating at low latency is very challenging. Also, implementation of these algorithms is limited by various constraints including energy, computation costs and complex network topology. In this paper, a statistical graphical model based algorithm is developed for in-network processing, which can be applied to tracking problems in the sensor networks. This algorithm represents the complex topology of a sensor network with a simple clique tree. It further utilizes the message passing algorithms to effectively make accurate inferences about the target location. The simulation shows that the algorithm can accurately track the target in a large scale random distributed sensor field with low complexity and low cost. The algorithm is also proved to be robust, as the simulation random disabled some sensors during the tracking phase.
Swelling, strength, and biocompatibility of acrylate-based superporous hydrogel hybrids

A hydrogel hybrid of chemically cross-linked hydroxyethyl acrylate interpenetrated with physically cross-linked carboxymethylcellulose was prepared as a superporous structure with swelling rates ranging from a few seconds to minutes depending on the swelling medium. A new method was adopted to evaluate the swelling capacity and rate in superporous hydrogel hybrid using a modified texture analyzer. Based on the extensive data acquisition, swelling data at any time point were obtainable and fit into a Voigt viscoelastic model. Moreover, the two mechanisms by which a superporous hydrogel hybrid swells in an aqueous medium were differentiated and used to estimate the onset of the diffusion-controlled swelling, which was found to be dependent on the actual composition of the swelling medium. A correlation was found between the mechanical strength of the fully swollen hydrogels and their respective swelling force in different swelling media. The concentration of alcohol in the medium was a critical factor in th...