cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The bases of conflict in biological explanation

I believe that a large part of the problem of biological explanation is sociological rather than philosophical, for the renewed interest in the problem of explanation in biology is a result of the rise of a self-conscious and self-defined group of biologists who call themselves molecular biologists. This group feels, and explicitly states, that the reason biological explanation is in such a bad state is that biologists have by and large not asked the right kinds of questions and not used the right methods. There has been a setting up of a kind of dialectic of the molecular versus the evolutionary, the molecular versus the organismic, the reductionist as opposed to the synthetic theories of biology, a dialectic that is pretty much a false one. I would like to distinguish, from the standpoint of the biologists, wherein this conflict is a real one and wherein it is simply a sociological consequence of the excitement that some people have about what they do. There is first the false conflict, which is really a conflict of interest. The difficulty has arisen in the context of everyday language because the two kinds of biologists have asked what seemed to be the same questions in the same way, but have really been asking different questions. They have all used the word "how," but there is a confusion of final and efficient causation, a confusion that biologists must be permitted because most of them have never heard of Aristotle and those who have heard of him have never read him. The confusion between final and efficient causation among biologists is contained in the following exemplar: "Why is the sex ratio in Drosophila 1:1?" It is a question typical of the biologist, for it is really two different questions even though it is stated as one. "Why is the sex ratio 1: 1?" I can give a perfectly satisfactory answer to that question by discussing laws of genetics; by discussing chromosomal mechanics, which themselves are clearly reducible to physicochemical terms, although that has not yet been properly done; by reducing the explana-
Augmented reality and motion capture apparel e-shopping values and usage intention

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine: whether monetary, convenience, emotional, and social values were related to utilitarian and hedonic performance expectancies, which were then related to usage intention of augmented reality and motion capture (ARMC) e-shopping via a webcam and whether ego involvement and cognitive effort moderated the links between performance expectancies and usage intention. Design/methodology/approach – The proposed model was based on Prospect Theory and the Value-Attitude-Behavior hierarchy consumer decision model. The participants were US online apparel shoppers (n=806) and were drawn from an online consumer panel. Structural equation modeling was employed to test the proposed model and research hypotheses. Findings – This study identified that utilitarian performance expectancy was positively related to usage intention. However, hedonic performance expectancy was not positively related to usage intention. Monetary, convenience, emotional, and social values had an in...
Calcium-stimulated ATPase of dog submandibular gland

Abstract A Ca 2− -stimulated ATPase present in a microsomal fraction prepared from canine submandibular glands was investigated. The Ca 2+ concentration for half maximal activation of the enzyme was about 0.3 mM. Addition of Mg 2+ to incubation media containing Ca 2+ decreased the ATPase activity. The presence of neither Na + nor K + is required for Ca 2+ -activation of the enzyme. Also, Ca 2+ will not substitute for Mg 2+ in the Mg 2+ -dependent (Na + + K + )-ATPase reaction. The Ca 2+ -activation was not appreciably affected by ouabain (10 −4 M), but was inhibited by about 50 per cent by 5 × 10 −3 M ethacrynic acid. These studies provide a possible enzymatic basis for the calcium uptake by salivary gland microsomes that has been reported by other workers.
Ph-responsive amphiphilic hydrogel networks with IPN structure : A strategy for controlled drug release

A pH-responsive amphiphilic hydrogel with interpenetrating polymer networks (IPN) structure for controlled drug release was proposed. The IPN was constructed with hydrophilic poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) and hydrophobic poly(butyl acrylate) (PBA). Using drug N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine (melatonin, MEL) as a model molecule, the controlled drug release behaviors of the IPN were investigated. It is found that not only the release of MEL from the IPN can respond to change in pH, but also the presence of hydrophobic network can overcome disadvantageous burst effect of hydrophilic network. This may be a result of hydrophobic aggregation encapsulating MEL molecules.
Increased Levels of 16α-Hydroxyestrone-Modified Proteins in Pregnancy and in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

The ketolic estrogen 16α-hydroxyestrone (16αOHE) reacts with lysine residues, forming stable covalent adducts with proteins. To determine the extent of protein modification by 16αOHE in vivo, we measured the level of 16αOHElysine present within proteins of varying half-lives obtained from normal subjects, patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and pregnant women. The latter groups have higher than normal levels of plasma 16αOHE. The proteins analyzed were membrane proteins of the red cell and the lymphocyte and basement membrane proteins of the glomerulus. We report that elevated levels of plasma 16αOHE led to increased formation of 16αOHE-protein adducts and that the level of these adducts increases with the half-life of the protein. In the case of erythrocyte membrane proteins, pregnant women and women with SLE had significantly higher mean levels of 16αOHE-lysine than normal women (normal, 5.2 pmol 16αOHE-lysine/mmol leucine; SLE, 15.7; pregnant, 24.9). A similar elevation in the modificatio...
A Water-Gas Relative Permeability Relationship for Tight Gas Sand Reservoirs

This paper presents a new approach for the analyses of laboratory-derived capillary pressure data for tight gas sands. The method uses the fact that a log-log plot of capillary pressure against water saturation is a straight line to derive new expressions for both wetting and nonwetting phase relative permeabilities. The new relative permeability equations are explicit functions of water saturation and the slope of the log-log straight line of capillary pressure plotted against water saturation. Relative permeabilities determined with the new expressions have been successfully used in simulation studies of naturally fractured tight gas sands where those determined with Corey-type expressions which are functions of reduced water saturation have failed. A dependence trend is observed between capillary pressure and gas permeability data from some of the tight gas sands of the North American Continent. The trend suggests that The lower the gas permeability, the higher the capillary pressure values at the same wetting phase saturation-especially for saturations less than 60 percent.
Malware Shall Greatly Increase ...

This paper presents the generation of virus emerging from email to cellphones. Most of these early threats were self-replicating but not self-transporting, spreading from computer to computer via infected floppy disks. As more viruses were discovered, most known malware existed only in researchers' collections and not in users' machines. Malware was shift from virus to worm called Trojan horse. And different anti-virus companies deploying new tools to protect users from malware.
A numerical procedure for simulation of hydraulically-driven fracture propagation in poroelastic media

A procedure for numerical approximation to two-dimensional, hydraulically-driven fracture propagation in a poroelastic material is described. The method uses a partitioned solution procedure to solve a finite element approximation to problems described by the theory of poroelasticity, in conjunction with a finite difference approximation for modelling fluid flow along the fracture. An equilibrium fracture model based on a generalized, Dugdale-Barenblatt concept is used to determine the fracture dimensions. An important feature is that the fracture length is a natural product of the solution algorithm. Two example problems verify the accuracy of the numerical procedure and a third example illustrates a fully-coupled simulation of fracture propagation. Photographs taken from a high-performance engineering workstation provide insight into the nature of the coupling among the physical phenomena.(A)
Hand-foot syndrome associated with liposome-encapsulated doxorubicin therapy

Background. Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)-related Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) is a common complication of patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus and can cause significant morbidity. Long term therapy with standard chemotherapeutic regimens has been limited by relatively short durations of response and potential toxicity. Once therapy is discontinued, the disease typically progresses. Liposome-encapsulated doxorubicin (DOX-SL) currently is being evaluated for treating patients with AIDS-related KS. Early reports suggest a high response rate and good patient tolerance permitting continued therapy for extended periods. Methods. Patients with AIDS-related KS are treated with a DOX-SL regimen every 2-3 weeks and are followed carefully for evidence of adverse treatment effects. Results. Two cases of hand-foot syndrome (HFS) in patients receiving DOX-SL for AIDS-related KS are reported. Tissue studies demonstrated changes consistent with a toxic effect of the drug on keratinocytes. Hand-foot syndrome was reversible once treatment stopped ; however, treatment cessation resulted in primary disease recurrence. Conclusions. Hand-foot syndrome can be debilitating and may be a limiting factor in the prolonged use of DOX-SL for AIDS-related KS for some patients. It is critical for clinicians using this drug to identify this side effect to limit HFS-associated morbidity. Cancer 1995 ; 75 :2169-73.
Impact of hydraulic and carbon loading rates of constructed wetlands on contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) removal.

Constructed wetlands remove trace organic contaminants via synergistic processes involving plant biomass that include hydrolysis, volatilization, sorption, biodegradation, and photolysis. Wetland design conditions, such as hydraulic loading rates (HLRs) and carbon loading rates (CLRs), influence these processes. Contaminant of emerging concern (CEC) removal by wetland plants was investigated at varying HLRs and CLRs. Rate constants and parameters obtained from batch-scale studies were used in a mechanistic model to evaluate the effect of these two loading rates on CEC removal. CLR significantly influenced CEC removal when wetlands were operated at HLR >5 cm/d. High values of CLR increased removal of estradiol and carbamazepine but lowered that of testosterone and atrazine. Without increasing the cumulative HLR, operating two wetlands in series with varying CLRs could be a way to improve CEC removal.
System dynamics and conventional approaches for managing technological substitution in national security planning

A system dynamics model is developed to detail essential combat aircraft survivability parameters and their causal relationships for the Joint Technical Coordinating Group for Aircraft Survivability of the Department of Defense. The model is comprised of five submodels: (1) Economy Submodel, (2) Budget Submodel, (3) Procurement Submodel, (4) Attrition Submodel, and (5) Survivability Submodel. The model is illustrated using aircraft carrier oriented combat scenarios which include fleet defense, counterair, interdiction. and close surface support missions for the carrier-based aircraft. Trade-off analyses are performed to determine the allocations between procurement; operations and maintenance; and research, development, test and evaluation that will generate values of aircraft inventory, availability and survivability that optimize life cycle costs and kill-to-loss ratios.
Export attitudes of industrial manufacturers

Abstract Small and medium-sized firms in three “high-tech” manufacturing industries were analyzed, in terms of their export attitudes and behavior, in order to provide beginning exporters and export promotion agencies with guidance to avenues of export success. Based on industry differences investigated, the study finds that managers in firms involved in exporting in each industry have similar attitudes toward international marketing opportunities, but that each industry exhibits different characteristics and strategies for exporting. Help is mainly needed in the areas of international communications and service delivery. The authors propose fewer government subsidies for export financing and more emphasis on encouraging joint ventures for service delivery purposes.
Morphology and burning rates of expanding spherical flames in H2/O2/inert mixtures up to 60 atmospheres

Recognizing that previous experimental studies on constant-pressure, outwardly propagating, Spherical flames with imaging capability were limited to pressures less than about 5 atm, and that pressures within internal combustion engines are substantially higher, a novel experimental apparatus was designed, to extend the environmental pressure to 60 atm. Results substantiate previous observations of the propensity of cell formation over the flame surface due to hydrodynamic and diffusive-thermal instabilities and provide convincing evidence that wrinkled flame is the preferred mode of propagation in hydrogen/air mixtures in environments with pressures above only a few atmospheres. It is further shown that, by using helium as the diluent, and by reducing the oxygen concentration of the combustible, diffusional-thermal instability can be mostly suppressed and the hydrodynamic instability delayed. Stretch-free laminar flame speeds were subsequently determined for such smooth flames up to 20 atm and were compared with the calculated values, allowing for detailed chemistry and transport.
Physical impairment in patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies is associated with the American College of Rheumatology functional status measure.

The goals of this study were to assess the predictive value of chart-abstracted American College of Rheumatology functional status (ACR-FS) with patient-reported ACR-FS and to relate it with measures of muscle function in a single-institution cohort of patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs). Demographic and clinical data of 102 patients with IIMs regularly followed in the Rheumatology and Neurology Clinics at the University of Kentucky Medical Center between 2006 and 2012 were obtained through retrospective chart review. Clinical and functional status evaluation, muscle performance testing, and body composition measures were performed on a subset of 21 patients. ACR-FS was obtained by both chart abstraction and direct patient report. Spearman’s correlations were used to examine the relationship of ACR-FS derived from chart abstraction with direct patient report, as well as the relationship of measures of physical function and body composition with ACR-FS. ACR-FS derived from chart abstraction was significantly correlated with ACR-FS derived from direct patient report (ρ = 0.78, p < 0.001). ACR-FS derived from chart abstraction was also significantly correlated with patient-reported physical function (ρ = −0.71, p < 0.001) and physical activity (ρ = −0.58, p < 0.05), manual muscle testing (ρ = −0.66, p < 0.01), and skeletal muscle endurance as measured by the functional index-2 test (shoulder flexion ρ = −0.62, p < 0.01; hip flexion ρ = −0.65, p < 0.0; heel lift ρ = −0.67, p < 0.01; and toe lift ρ = −0.68, p < 0.01). The ACR-FS is a simple measure of disability that can be used in chart abstraction studies involving IIM patients. We have demonstrated that ACR-FS correlates well with muscle performance tests of strength and endurance.
Protective effects of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents against manganese-induced oxidative damage and neuronal injury.

Exposure to excessive manganese (Mn) levels leads to neurotoxicity, referred to as manganism, which resembles Parkinson’s disease (PD). Manganism is caused by neuronal injury in both cortical and subcortical regions, particularly in the basal ganglia. The basis for the selective neurotoxicity of Mn is not yet fully understood. However, several studies suggest that oxidative damage and inflammatory processes play prominent roles in the degeneration of dopamine-containing neurons. In the present study, we assessed the effects of Mn on reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, changes in high-energy phosphates and associated neuronal dysfunctions both in vitro and in vivo. Results from our in vitro study showed a significant (P<0.01) increase in biomarkers of oxidative damage, F2-isoprostanes (F2-IsoPs), as well as the depletion of ATP in primary rat cortical neurons following exposure to Mn (500 µM) for 2 hours. These effects were protected when neurons were pretreated for 30 min with 100 µM of an antioxidant, the hydrophilic vitamin E analog, trolox (6-hydroxy-2,5,7,8-tetramethylchroman-2-carboxylic acid), or an anti-inflammatory agent, indomethacin. Results from our in vivo study confirmed a significant increase in F2-IsoPs levels in conjunction with the progressive spine degeneration and dendritic damage of the striatal medium spiny neurons (MSNs) of mice exposed to Mn (100 mg/kg, s.c.) 24 hours. Additionally, pretreatment with vitamin E (100 mg/kg, i.p.) or ibuprofen (140 µg/ml in the drinking water for two weeks) attenuated the Mn-induced increase in cerebral F2-IsoPs and protected the MSNs from dendritic atrophy and dendritic spine loss. Our findings suggest that the mediation of oxidative stress/mitochondrial dysfunction and the control of alterations in biomarkers of oxidative injury, neuroinflammation and synaptodendritic degeneration may provide an effective, multi-pronged therapeutic strategy for protecting dysfunctional dopaminergic transmission and slowing of the progression of Mn-induced neurodegenerative processes.
Floquet Analysis of Lamb Waves Propagating in Periodically-Layered Composites

In this paper, we present a general method for solving wave propagation problems in periodically layered composite plates. Such plates can be divided into periodic cells composed of two or more sublayers with different material parameters. Composite plates behave quite differently from homogeneous plates. Shull et al. [1] observed that guided wave dispersion curves for these plates, unlike their homogeneous counterparts, do not scale with frequency-thickness product. In a recent contribution, Auld et al. [2] presented an analysis for SH wave propagation in periodically layered plates and attributed this phenomenon to the pass-band and stop-band structure caused by the layering. The SH wave analysis is analogous to the electromagnetic case (e.g. periodic microwave filters). However, in ultrasonic practice, the more relevant case is the propagation of Lamb-type waves (polarized in the vertical plane) in periodic plates. This problem is characteristically different from the SH problem due to the coupling between quasi longitudinal and quasi shear wave components. In this paper, we will show how Floquet modes can be utilized to simplify significantly the solution to the plate wave problem with periodic structures. The Floquet modes, which are the characteristic modes for the infinite periodically layered medium, can be thought of as analogous to the longitudinal and shear modes for the infinite homogeneous isotropic medium.
Bone marrow fat and the decline of B lymphopoiesis in rabbits.

B lymphopoiesis is necessary to generate a diverse pool of naive B cells that are able to respond to a broad spectrum of antigens during immune responses to pathogens and to vaccination. Rabbits have been utilized for many years to generate high affinity monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies. Specific antibodies generated in rabbits have greatly advanced scientific discoveries, but the unique qualities of rabbit B cell development have been underappreciated. Unlike in humans and mice, where B lymphopoiesis declines in mid to late life, B lymphopoiesis in rabbits arrests early in life, between 2 and 4 months of age. This review focuses on the early loss of B cell development in rabbits and the contribution of the bone marrow microenvironment to this process. We also propose directions for future research in this area, and discuss how the rabbit can be used as a model to understand the decline of B lymphopoiesis that occurs in humans late in life. Such studies will be important for developing therapeutics targeted to prevent and/or reverse declining B lymphopoiesis in the elderly, as well as boosting immunity and antibody responses after infection or vaccination.
Familial Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma

Familial pancreatic cancer (FPC) kindreds have at least 2 first-degree relatives with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Studies of FPC have focused on the discovery of genetic cause and on the management of those at genetically high risk. Research reveals that a half dozen known hereditary syndromes or genes are associated with increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer, the most prominent of which are BRCA2 and CDKN2A. Genetic risk assessment and testing is already available. Owing to limited experience worldwide, guidance is often based on expert opinion, although all agree that research is needed to improve the shaping of options.
Incidental radiographic findings after injury: dedicated attention results in improved capture, documentation, and management.

Background With liberal use of computed tomography in the diagnostic management of trauma patients, incidental findings are common and represent a major patient-care and medical–legal concern. Consequently, we began an initiative to capture, notify, and documentadequately incidental finding events with a dedicated incidental finding coordinator. We hypothesized a dedicated incidental finding coordinator would increase incidental finding capture and promote notification, follow-up, and documentation of incidental finding events. Methods A quality-improvement project to record and follow-up incidental findings postinjury was initiated at our level I trauma center (April 2007–March 2008, prededicated incidental finding). Because of concerns for inadequate documentation of identified incidental finding events, we implemented a dedicated incidental finding coordinator (April 2008–March 2009, postdedicated incidental finding). The dedicated incidental finding coordinator documented incidental findings daily from trauma admission radiology final reads. Incidental findings were divided into 3 groups; category 1: attention prior to discharge; category 2: follow-up with primary doctor within 2 weeks; category 3: no specific follow-up. For category 1 incidental findings, in-hospital consultation of the appropriate service was verified. On discharge, patient notification, follow-up, and documentation of events were confirmed. Certified mail or telephone contact was used to notify either the patient or the primary doctor in those who lacked appropriate notification or documentation. Results Admission rates and incidental finding categories were similar across the 2 time periods. Implementation of a dedicated incidental finding coordinator resulted in more than a 165% increase in incidental finding capture (n = 802 vs n = 302; P < .001). Patient notification was attempted, and appropriate documentation of events was confirmed in 99.8% of patients. Patient notification was verified, and follow-up was initiated in 95.8% of cases. Conclusion The implementation of a dedicated incidental finding coordinator resulted in more than a 2.5-fold higher capture of incidental findings. Dedicated attention to incidental findings resulted in a near complete initiation of patient notification, follow-up, and hospital record documentation of incidental finding events. Inadequate patient notification and follow-up would delay appropriate care and potentially would result in morbidity or even mortality. A dedicated incidental finding coordinator represents a potential solution to this patient-care and medical–legal dilemma.
Malignant meningioma: ultrastructure and observations on histogenesis

A malignant meningioma was studied by light and electron microscopy. Histologically, the tumour was composed predominantly of spindle shaped cells arranged in interlacing bundles with numerous mitoses and much nuclear atypia. There were many necrotic foci as well as invasion of the cerebral cortex, dura mater and blood vessels. Ultrastructurally, the main findings included moderate plasma membrane interdigitation, many intracytoplasmic filaments, and junctional attachments of three kinds: desmosomes, hemidesmosomes, and zonulae adhaerentes. These subcellular features are suggestive of arachnoidal cell origin.
A prospective study of iliotibial band strain in runners.

Background. Iliotibial band syndrome is the leading cause of lateral knee pain in runners. It is thought that pain develops from strain on the iliotibial band due to friction of the iliotibial band sliding over the lateral femoral epicondyle. The purpose of this study was to investigate mechanical strain in the iliotibial band as a possible causative factor in the development of iliotibial band syndrome. Methods. From a large prospective study, female runners who incurred iliotibial band syndrome during the study were compared to a control group who incurred no injuries. Strain, strain rate and duration of impingement were determined from a musculoskeletal model of the lower extremity. Findings. The results indicated that the iliotibial band syndrome subjects exhibited greater strain throughout the support period, but particularly at midsupport compared to the control group. Strain rate was significantly greater in the iliotibial band syndrome group compared to the control group and was greater in the involved limb of the iliotibial band syndrome group compared to their contralateral limb. However, there were no differences in the duration of impingement between the groups. Interpretation. This study indicates that a major factor in the development of iliotibial band syndrome is strain rate. Therefore, we suggest that strain rate, rather than the magnitude of strain, may be a causative factor in developing iliotibial band syndrome. The effect size (>0.5) indicated that strain rate may be biologically significant in the etiology of iliotibial band syndrome. 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Business process simulation

This introductory tutorial provides an overview of business process simulation and how it works. Descriptions of modeling elements and model performance measures are presented. Classification of business processes is followed by unique modeling, simulation procedure and analysis considerations. Types of business process simulation tools are discussed. Finally, a purchasing process simulation exercise is presented to illustrate the power and suitability of simulation for analyzing a business process.
Detection of algal lipid accumulation due to nitrogen limitation via dielectric spectroscopy of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii suspensions in a coaxial transmission line sample cell

Abstract In this study, dielectric characterization of algae cell suspensions was used to detect lipid accumulation due to nitrogen starvation. Wild-type Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (CC-125) was cultivated in replete and nitrogen-limited conditions in order to achieve a range of lipid contents, as confirmed by Nile Red fluorescence measurements. A vector network analyzer was used to measure the dielectric scattering parameters of a coaxial region of concentrated cell suspension. The critical frequency f c of the normalized transmission coefficient | S 21 ∗ | decreased with increasing lipid content but did not change with cell concentration. These observations were consistent with a decrease in cytoplasmic conductivity due to lipid accumulation in the preliminary transmission line model. This dielectric sensitivity to lipid content will facilitate the development of a rapid, noninvasive method for algal lipid measurement that could be implemented in industrial settings without the need for specialized staff and analytical facilities.
Effects of dietary lipid levels on mitochondrial gene expression in low and high‐feed efficient families of rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss

A 2 × 3 factorial study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary lipid level on mitochondrial gene expression in mixed sex rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss. Practical diets with a fixed crude protein content of 42%, formulated to contain 10% (42/10), 20% (42/20) and 30% (42/30) dietary lipid, were fed to triplicate groups of either low-feed efficient (F129; mean ± s.d. = 105.67 ± 3.04 g initial average mass) or high-feed efficient (F134; mean ± s.d. = 97.86 ± 4.02 g) families of fish, to apparent satiety, twice per day, for 108 days. At the end of the experiment, diets 42/20 and 42/30 led to similar fish condition factors, which were higher than that observed with diet 42/10 (P < 0.05). F134 fish fed diet 42/10 showed the highest hepato-somatic index, while there was no significant difference among all the other treatments (P < 0.05). When the group of F134 fish fed diet 42/10 was used as the calibrator for gene expression analysis, the five genes selected for their involvement in lipid metabolism (complex I-nd1, complex III-cytb, complex IV-cox1, complex IV-cox2 and complex V-atp6) were up-regulated in the muscle and down-regulated in both the liver and the intestine. There was a significant family × diet interaction regarding nd1, cox2 and atp6 in the liver; nd1, cytb, cox1, cox2 and atp6 in the intestine, and nd1, cytb, cox1, cox2 and atp6 in the muscle (P < 0.05). The overall results of this study constitute basic information for the understanding of molecular mechanisms of lipid metabolism at the mitochondrial level in fishes.
Structure-function relationships in the Ca2+-ATPase of sarcoplasmic reticulum: facts, speculations and questions for the future

Structural data on the Ca(2+)-ATPase of sarcoplasmic reticulum are integrated with kinetic data on Ca2+ transport. The emphasis is upon ATPase-ATPase interactions, the requirement for phospholipids, and the mechanism of Ca2+ translocation. The possible role of cytoplasmic [Ca2+] in the regulation of the synthesis of Ca(2+)-ATPase is discussed.
Disconnection and Reorganization: The Transformation of Civic Life in Late-Twentieth-Century America

From the early 1800s through the middle of the twentieth century, U.S. democracy was energized by the remarkable propensity of Americans to organize and join voluntary associations. Observers of many persuasions agree on this point – and also concur that the final decades of the twentieth century brought fundamental shifts in civic organization and citizen involvements with voluntary groups in the United States. The nature, tempo, and causes of these changes remain a topic for scholarly discussion, however. Investigators highlight different aspects of recent civic transformations and explore these changes using contrasting theoretical perspectives and types of empirical data.
RING CHROMOSOMES AND RDNA MAGNIFICATION IN DROSOPHILA

Tartof showed that ribosomal gene magnification in Drosophila was inhibited in a ring X chromosome. The present studies extend this observation by showing that ring X chromosomes are lost meiotically in male Drosophila undergoing ribosomal gene magnification as evidenced by the recovery of a lower number of ring-bearing progeny under magnifying conditions compared with nonmagnifying conditions. Associated with ring chromosome loss is a highly significant increase in the number of double-sized dicentric ring chromosomes in meiotic cells from magnifying males. These observations explain the failure of ring X chromosomes to magnify and imply that magnification in rod chromosomes occurs via a mechanism of unequal sister chromatid exchange. Our results support the hypothesis that the primary event of magnification is a sister chromatid exchange in the rDNA, that the frequency of sister strand exchanges is increased in magnifying flies, that a significant number of exchanges in magnifying flies occurs meiotically and that some of the exchanges are nonreciprocal. We have also found that autosomal mutations can affect both the frequency of abnormal ring structures and the ability of ring X chromosomes to magnify.
System-wide immunohistochemical analysis of protein co-localization.

Background The analysis of co-localized protein expression in a tissue section is often conducted with immunofluorescence histochemical staining which is typically visualized in localized regions. On the other hand, chromogenic immunohistochemical staining, in general, is not suitable for the detection of protein co-localization. Here, we developed a new protocol, based on chromogenic immunohistochemical stain, for system-wide detection of protein co-localization and differential expression. Methodology/Principal Findings In combination with a removable chromogenic stain, an efficient antibody stripping method was developed to enable sequential immunostaining with different primary antibodies regardless of antibody's host species. Sections were scanned after each staining, and the images were superimposed together for the detection of protein co-localization and differential expression. As a proof of principle, differential expression and co-localization of glutamic acid decarboxylase67 (GAD67) and parvalbumin proteins was examined in mouse cortex. Conclusions/Significance All parvalbumin-containing neurons express GAD67 protein, and GAD67-positive neurons that do not express parvalbumin were readily visualized from thousands of other neurons across mouse cortex. The method provided a global view of protein co-localization as well as differential expression across an entire tissue section. Repeated use of the same section could combine assessments of co-localization and differential expression of multiple proteins.
Floquet theory for linear periodic differential equations with discontinuous right-hand side

The Floquet theory for linear periodic differential equations pertains to equations with continuous right-hand side. In the present paper we generalize this theory to systems with discontinuous right-hand side. We assume that in every finite time interval, there are at most a finite number of discontinuities. We demonstrate the applicability of our results in the stability analysis of specific examples.
A framework for global optimization of aggregate queries

With recent emphasis placed by data warehouse applications on aggregate queries with vatious grouping criteria, it is natural to expect muhiple aggregate queries on the same set of tables. In this paper, we provide a fmmework for global optimization of aggregate queries under the concept of aggregate query blocks. We propose an extension to SQL to allow users to define explicit query blocks. The paper coveys the integration of the gZobaZ aggregate optimization with the oprimization of individual queries. We present easy-to-implement optimization algolithms applicable to aggregate query blocks. We show that these algorirhms add minimum overhead to the fofai optimization cost, whiie dramatically reducing the overall execution cost.
Data-parallel algorithms for agent-based model simulation of tuberculosis on graphics processing units

Agent-based modeling has been recognized as a method to bridge the translational gap in integrative systems biology. However, the computational complexity of agent-based models at biologically relevant scales makes simulation impractical on traditional CPU-based serial computing. In this paper we present a series of algorithms for simulating large scale agent-based models on graphics processing units (GPUs). GPUs have recently emerged as a powerful and economical computing platform for certain applications in scientific computing. As a test case, we have implemented an agent-based model of tuberculosis. This model simulates the interaction of the human immune system in the lung with Mycobacterium tuberculosis and tracks the formation of characteristic structures called granulomas. The model uses mobile agents to represent immune cells such as T cells and macrophages, field equations representing effector chemokines, and bacteria. Algorithms were implemented and benchmarked against a CPU implementation. Our benchmarks show performance gains of over 100 for moderately sized models. This opens the possibility of efficiently simulating realistically sized models on desktop computers.
Carbon loss and optical property changes during long‐term photochemical and biological degradation of estuarine dissolved organic matter

Terrestrially derived dissolved organic matter (DOM) impacts the optical properties of coastal seawater and affects carbon cycling on a global scale. We studied sequential long-term photochemical and biological degradation of estuarine dissolved organic matter from the Satilla River, an estuary in the southeastern United States that is dominated by vascular plant-derived organic matter. During photodegradation, dissolved organic carbon (DOC) loss (amounting to 31% of the initial DOC) was much less extensive than colored dissolved organic matter (CDOM) or fluorescent dissolved organic matter (FDOM) loss (50% and 56% of the initial CDOM and FDOM), and analysis of kinetics suggested a reservoir of DOC that was resistant to photodegradation. In contrast, CDOM photodegradation closely followed first-order kinetics over two half-lives with no indication of a nondegradable component. FDOM loss was slightly biased toward fluorophores considered representative of terrestrial humic substances. Additional changes in optical properties included increases in spectral slope and shifts in fluorescence excitation/ emission maxima that were generally consistent with previous observations from field studies of photobleached DOM. Biological degradation of photobleached DOM was more rapid than that of unbleached material, and this net positive effect was evident even for extensively photodegraded material. Bacterial degradation caused shifts in the opposite direction from photochemical degradation for both spectral slope and excitation/emission maxima and thus dampened but did not eliminate changes in optical properties caused by photobleaching.
Tax law influences on the form and substance of equity compensation in the United States

This brief essay was written for a forthcoming book by Prof. Zenich Shisido, Enterprise Law: Contracts, Markets, and Laws in the US and Japan (Edward Elger). It summarizes recent scholarship on the influence of tax law on equity compensation in the United States. The essay finds there is little evidence or reason to believe that tax law significantly influences the substance of equity compensation, meaning the mix between equity and cash compensation and the risk and term structure of equity compensation. For publicly traded firms, tax law generally and roughly is neutral in the choice between equity and cash compensation once costs and benefits to both the firm and the recipient are considered. Tax law probably also has not had much impact on the form of equity compensation in publicly traded firms. Tax considerations do seem to have had an impact on the form of equity compensation in the venture capital (“VC”) and private equity industries both at the start-up company level and at the fund level. There is an arguable tax bias against giving founders equity compensation in the form of founders’ common in start-ups in the VC industry. And there is arguable tax bias in favor of giving fund managers equity compensation in the form of a profits interest in the private equity industry, which includes the VC industry.But there are reasons to be skeptical about whether these tax biases have had much of an impact on the substance of equity compensation. Start-ups are so poorly engineered from a tax perspective that it is unlikely that tax considerations significantly influence the economic deal struck between founders and investors. If the tax cost of founders’ common was perceived as an impediment to using equity compensation, then the parties would redesign the deals to eliminate those costs. On the other hand, funds are so exquisitely well engineered from a tax perspective that that we can expect engineers to design around any tax rules that are more than a minor irritant. The co-existence of these poorly and exquisitely designed structures in the same industry is curious.
Tether Element Geometry from Steady Loads

This note presents a numerical method for rapidly calculating the steady position of such arrays when subjected to steady-state loads.
Adenovirus-mediated human immunodeficiency virus-1 Nef expression in human monocytes/macrophages and effect of Nef on downmodulation of Fcγ receptors and expression of monokines

To characterize the effect of human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) nef expression in human monocytes/macrophage (HMO) and U937 on the levels of FcgammaRs, HLA antigens, and monokines, elutriated HMOs and U937 cells were transfected with an adenovirus-mediated Nef expression system. Nef-expressing cells downmodulated FcgammaRI, FcgammaRII, and upregulated HLA class I molecules. Nef-expressing HMOs, treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), overexpressed tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), and IL-10. However, IL-6 was induced by LPS and inhibited by PMA. Additionally, a subpopulation of Nef-expressing HMOs underwent apoptosis. Our data suggest that HIV-1 nef downmodulated FcgammaRs in myeloid cells in a manner similar to that previously reported for its effect on CD4+ in T cells.
Comparison of Maximum Volitional Torque Exertion Capabilities of Males and Females Using Common Hand Tools

This study examines the effects of several operator- and task-related variables, defining the operator hand-tool system at the workplace, on peak volitional torque exertion capabilities of males an...
The Central Tympanum at Vézelay

The central tympanum in the narthex of the Abbey Church of Sainte-Madeleine at Vezelay, which was created between about 1120 and 1132, has proved to be one of the most tempting and brittle iconographical enigmas of mediaeval art (Figs. 1, 2). Its explanation has been attempted time and again with a wide variety of results.1 In more recent years the conflicting opinions have been narrowed down to two different interpretations, established by Emile Mâle and Abel Fabre.2
Underwater robotics

During the 1990s, numerous worldwide research and development activities occurred in underwater robotics, especially in the area of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). As the ocean attracts great attention on environmental issues and resources as well as scientific and military tasks, the need for and use of underwater robotic systems has become more apparent. Great efforts have been made in developing AUVs to overcome challenging scientific and engineering problems caused by the unstructured and hazardous ocean environment. In the 1990s, about 30 new AUVs have been built worldwide. It is just the beginning for more advanced, yet practical and reliable AUVs. The new millennium will bring advancements in technology that will enable the development of more practical, reliable AUVs. The paper describes some key areas in current state-of-the-art underwater robotic technologies and presents future research direction.
Consequences of altered TGF-β expression and responsiveness in breast cancer: evidence for autocrine and paracrine effects

To characterize the impact of increased production of TGF-β in a xenograft model of human breast cancer, TGF-β-responsive MDA-231 cells were genetically modified by stable transfection so as to increase their production of active TGF-β1. Compared with control cells, cells that produced increased amounts of TGF-β proliferated in vitro more slowly. In vivo, however, tumors derived from these cells exhibited increased proliferation and grew at an accelerated pace. To evaluate the role of autocrine TGF-β signaling, cells were also transfected with a dominant-negative truncated type II TGF-β receptor (TβRII). Disruption of autocrine TGF-β signaling in the TGF-β-overexpressing cells reduced their in vivo growth rate. Co-inoculation of Matrigel with the TGF-β-overexpressing cells expressing the truncated TβRII compensated for their diminished in vivo growth capacity, compared with the TGF-β-overexpressing cells with an intact autocrine loop. Tissue invasion by the tumor was a distinctive feature of the TGF-β-overexpressing cells, whether or not the autocrine loop was intact. Furthermore, tumors derived from TGF-β-overexpressing cells, irrespective of the status of the autocrine TGF-β-signaling pathway, had a higher incidence of lung metastasis. Consistent with the suggestion that TGF-β's enhancement of invasion and metastasis is paracrine-based, we observed no significant differences among the cell clones in an in vitro invasion assay. Thus, in this experimental model system in vitro assays of cell proliferation and invasion do not accurately reflect in vivo observations, perhaps due to autocrine and paracrine effects of TGF-β that influence the important in vivo-based phenomena of tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis.
Electric Pitch System's Ground Load Test of MW Rated Wind Turbine

The rise of clean energy wind power has become a low carbon economy,an important landmark.Pitch system for wind turbine safety,stable and efficient operation play an important role.for blade pitch system has a special work environment,field load testing difficult problem,the blade pitch system ground test platforms were tested.The results illustrate that the ground test program for electric pitch system of research and product development has good test value.
An Unusual Case of a Well-Differentiated Meningioma With Rhabdoid Features, Classified as a WHO Grade I Tumor

Rhabdoid meningiomas are uncommon tumors consisting histologically of sheets of rhabdoid cells with eccentric nuclei with prominent nucleoli, which are displaced by an eosinophilic mass of intermediate filaments within the …
Integrin‐Targeting Knottin Peptide–Drug Conjugates Are Potent Inhibitors of Tumor Cell Proliferation

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) offer increased efficacy and reduced toxicity compared to systemic chemotherapy. Less attention has been paid to peptide-drug delivery, which has the potential for increased tumor penetration and facile synthesis. We report a knottin peptide-drug conjugate (KDC) and demonstrate that it can selectively deliver gemcitabine to malignant cells expressing tumor-associated integrins. This KDC binds to tumor cells with low-nanomolar affinity, is internalized by an integrin-mediated process, releases its payload intracellularly, and is a highly potent inhibitor of brain, breast, ovarian, and pancreatic cancer cell lines. Notably, these features enable this KDC to bypass a gemcitabine-resistance mechanism found in pancreatic cancer cells. This work expands the therapeutic relevance of knottin peptides to include targeted drug delivery, and further motivates efforts to expand the drug-conjugate toolkit to include non-antibody protein scaffolds.