gebhart/patrepeval huggingface dataset:
Matching of Persistent Scatterers to buildings (2012)

Persistent Scatterer Interferometry (PSI) aims at estimating the topography and deformation for a set of sufficiently stable radar targets, referred to as Persistent Scatterers (PS). Thereby, a stack of SAR images is exploited to distinguish between signal of interest and disturbances caused by, for instance, changes of the atmospheric conditions over time. The achievable sampling density mainly depends on the resolution of the employed sensor, and the characteristics of the scene at hand (i.e. the number of sufficiently stable reflectors). In case space-borne SAR data of the highest resolution is used, very high PS densities, potentially enabling the mapping of structures at sub-building level, can be achieved. This offers a big and completely new range of possible applications. For instance, it is possible to monitor single buildings using PSI. But with this also new questions and challenges arise. Two of those would be: which buildings are sampled dense enough for monitoring purposes, and to which actual building structure does the PS correspond? In order to investigate those questions, the PS results are aligned with building outlines. This easily enables to map the PS density of buildings, which partly answers the first question. Admittedly, also the distribution of the PS and the shape of the building as well as its structure play a role. But a map of the PS density would be definitely helpful to assess which structures can be monitored adequately. The correspondence between actual building structures and PS is a good deal harder to answer. In this work, we attempt to improve the geocoding of the PS with the help of the GIS data, in view of the fact that this may be very helpful for the given task.
Fast-response free-running DC-to-DC converter employing a state-trajectory control law (1977)

A recently proposed state-trajectory control law for a family of energy-storage dc-to-dc converters has been implemented for the voltage step-up configuration. Two methods of realization are discussed; one employs a digital processor and the other uses analog computational circuits. Performance characteristics of experimental voltage step-up converters operating under the control of each of these implementations are reported and compared to theoretical predictions and computer simulations.
p53-Dependent Chk1 Phosphorylation is Required for Maintenance of Prolonged G<sub>2</sub>Arrest (2007)

Targeting checkpoint kinases has been shown to have a potential chemosensitizing effect in cancer treatment. However, inhibitors of such kinases preferentially abrogate the DNA damage-induced G2 checkpoint in p53-/- as opposed to p53+/+ cells. The mechanisms by which p53 (TP53) can prevent abrogation of the G2 checkpoint are unclear. Using normal human diploid p53+/+ and p53-/- fibroblasts as model systems, we have compared the effects of three checkpoint inhibitors, caffeine, staurosporine and UCN-01, on gamma-radiation-induced G2 arrest. The G2 arrest in p53+/+ cells was abrogated by caffeine, but not by staurosporine and UCN-01, whereas the G2 arrest in p53-/- cells was sensitive to all three inhibitors. Chk2 (CHEK1) phosphorylation was maintained in the presence of all three inhibitors in both p53+/+ and p53-/- cells. Chk1 phosphorylation was maintained only in the presence of staurosporine and UCN-01 in p53+/+ cells. In the presence of caffeine Chk1 phosphorylation was inhibited regardless of p53 status. The pathway of Chk1 phosphorylation --> Cdc25A degradation --> inhibition of cyclin B1/Cdk1 activity --> G2 arrest is accordingly resistant to staurosporine and UCN-01 in p53+/+ cells. Moreover, sustained phosphorylation of Chk1 in the presence of staurosporine and UCN-01 is strongly related to phosphorylation of p53. The present study suggests the unique role of Chk1 in preventing abrogation of the G2 checkpoint in p53+/+ cells.
Cross‐recognition of a mouse H‐2‐peptide complex by human HLA‐restricted cytotoxic T cells (1990)

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-specific human cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) lines from a virus-immune HLA-A11+ donor CMc produced significant lysis of transfected mouse P815 target cells (H-2d background) expressing an introduced HLA-A11 heavy chain gene and the EBV gene encoding latent membrane protein (LMP). To identify the target epitope being recognized, HLA-A11+ transfectants of P815/A11) were pre-exposed to synthetic peptides corresponding to fragments of the LMP sequence and the cells then tested for lysis by CMc effectors; untransfected P815 parent cells were included in these assays as control recipients of the same peptides. Unexpectedly, we identified a peptide preparation (corresponding to LMP residues 124-137) which specifically sensitized not only P815/A11 cells but also the parental P815 cells to lysis. Four independent anti-EBV CTL lines derived from donor CMc gave the same result and single-cell cloning confirmed that lysis was mediated by a subset of the HLA-A11-restricted EBV-specific CTL clones which dominate CMc effector populations. Two lines of evidence indicated that peptide presentation to the human CTL was occurring through H-2Kd molecules on the surface of P815/A11 and P815 cells: (a) a monoclonal antibody reactive with H-2Kd specifically blocked the lysis of both P815/A11 and P815 peptide-treated targets, and (b) on an extended target cell panel, peptide-mediated sensitization was also obtained with a second H-2d mouse line A20.2J and with an H-2Kd transfectant of the H-2k line R1E. This work has therefore identified EBV-specific HLA-A11-restricted human CTL which show fortuitous cross-recognition of a synthetic peptide in the context of a mouse H-2Kd molecule. Such potential for xenogeneic cross-reactivity needs to be borne in mind in situations where the target specificity of human CTL is being analyzed on HLA gene-transfected murine target lines.
A RAPID AND SIMPLE METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF STARCH AND β-GLUCAN IN BARLEY AND MALT (1984)

A simple and precise method suitable for the routine determination of starch and β-glucan in barley and malt is described. Perchloric acid (50 mM) was used to effect rapid (3 min) and exhaustive extraction of both glucans which were then measured directly from this single extract by specific enzymic hydrolysis of the individual glucans to glucose. The glucose was also measured enzymically. Little or no acid hydrolysis of starch or β-glucan was observed under the extraction conditions used; most or all of the free glucose could be attributed to hydrolysis of sucrose. Complete solubilisation of the gum and hemicellulosic components of β-glucan was achieved. Preincubation of the acid extracts with protease prior to amyloglucosidase digestion resulted in higher measurements (approximately 4% w/w) of starch. The method was used to measure the levels of starch and β-glucan in five varieties of barley with contrasting malting quality, in micro-malts prepared from these samples and in commercial lager and ale malts.
Liquid crystallinity in polymers : principles and fundamental properties (1991)

The focus of this book is on the molecular basis for liquid crystallinity in polymers, including lyotropic, thermotropic, mainchain, sidechain systems and mixtures. An entire section is devoted to conformational aspects of polymeric mesogens which is followed by a section describing current molecular theories. Another section on experimental behaviour analyzes the performance of these theories, pointing out areas where further investigation is needed. A final section deals with elastic and viscous properties, with defects and textures and with rheology of LCP. Liquid crystallinity in polymers is written by recognized specialists whose various chapters together reach a consensus on the current status of our understanding of LCP behaviour. Specialists, chemists, physicists and biochemists entering the field will find it useful as will material researchers closer to application.
H/sup ∞/ filtering for noise reduction using a total least squares estimation approach (2002)

A noise reduction algorithm for signals corrupted by additive unknown L/sub 2/ white noise is proposed using an H/sup /spl infin// filtering framework. The proposed algorithm consists of two steps: a signal enhancement step and a parameter estimation step, which are iterated at each instant. To weaken the dependence between the signal enhancement step and the parameter estimation step, a total least squares estimation step for the dynamical model parameters needed in the H/sup /spl infin// filtering is introduced. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm under low signal-to-noise ratio environments is demonstrated by simulation.
Physical design and performance estimation of heterogeneous optical transmission systems (2008)

This article introduces the issues of design and estimation of performance of a heterogeneous optical transmission system, taking into account the multiplicity of physical effects impairing propagation simultaneously, and, most particularly, the impact of Kerr-induced non-linear effects. We review the usual engineering tools enabling us to predict system performance, as well as design tools to optimize dispersion-management. Finally, we introduce the concept of weighted non-linear phase shifts, to capture the impact of the accumulated non-linearities on a propagating signal, and derive analytical expressions for system reach and power optimization in the context of highly heterogeneous optical link with mixed fiber features.
Aortic Aneurysms and Dissections Series (2020)

The aortic wall is composed of highly dynamic cell populations and extracellular matrix. In response to changes in the biomechanical environment, aortic cells and extracellular matrix modulate their structure and functions to increase aortic wall strength and meet the hemodynamic demand. Compromise in the structural and functional integrity of aortic components leads to aortic degeneration, biomechanical failure, and the development of aortic aneurysms and dissections (AAD). A better understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of AAD will facilitate the development of effective medications to treat these conditions. Here, we summarize recent findings on AAD published in ATVB . In this issue, we focus on the dynamics of aortic cells and extracellular matrix in AAD; in the next issue, we will focus on the role of signaling pathways in AAD.
Covalent Trapping of Protein-DNA Complexes (2003)

High-resolution structural studies of protein-DNA complexes have proven to be an invaluable means of understanding the diverse functions of proteins that manage the genome. Most of the structures determined to date represent proteins bound noncovalently to various DNA sequences or structures. Although noncovalent complexation is often adequate to study the structures of proteins that have robust, specific interactions with DNA, it is poorly suited to the study of transient intermediates in enzyme-catalyzed DNA processing reactions or of complexes that exist in multiple equilibrating forms. In recent years, strategies developed for the covalent trapping of protein-DNA complexes have begun to show promise as a window into an otherwise inaccessible world of structure.
The Differential Response of Proteins to Macromolecular Crowding (2016)

The habitat in which proteins exert their function contains up to 400 g/L of macromolecules, most of which are proteins. The repercussions of this dense environment on protein behavior are often overlooked or addressed using synthetic agents such as poly(ethylene glycol), whose ability to mimic protein crowders has not been demonstrated. Here we performed a comprehensive atomistic molecular dynamic analysis of the effect of protein crowders on the structure and dynamics of three proteins, namely an intrinsically disordered protein (ACTR), a molten globule conformation (NCBD), and a one-fold structure (IRF-3) protein. We found that crowding does not stabilize the native compact structure, and, in fact, often prevents structural collapse. Poly(ethylene glycol) PEG500 failed to reproduce many aspects of the physiologically-relevant protein crowders, thus indicating its unsuitability to mimic the cell interior. Instead, the impact of protein crowding on the structure and dynamics of a protein depends on its degree of disorder and results from two competing effects: the excluded volume, which favors compact states, and quinary interactions, which favor extended conformers. Such a viscous environment slows down protein flexibility and restricts the conformational landscape, often biasing it towards bioactive conformations but hindering biologically relevant protein-protein contacts. Overall, the protein crowders used here act as unspecific chaperons that modulate the protein conformational space, thus having relevant consequences for disordered proteins.
Bentonites: adsorbents of toxic substances (2007)

The use of bentonites as adsorbents results from the reactivity of montmorillonite which is the main mineral in this clay-like material. Montmorillonite, a 2:1 clay mineral, impresses by a diversity of reactions in the interlayer space and at the external surfaces, which are the cause of strong adsorption of heavy metal ions and organic compounds. Bentonite adsorbents are used as crude bentonite, in soda-activated form, after degradation to bleaching earths, after modification by organic cations, or in form of polyhydroxometal or polyoxometal derivatives (“pillared clays”). The ease with which the bentonites are modified allows an optimization of the properties so that the requirements of numerous practical applications are fulfilled.
Measurement of internal quantum efficiency and losses in vertical cavity surface emitting lasers (1995)

A new experimental technique for the measurement of intrinsic parameters of vertical cavity surface emitting lasers is suggested. Using an external cavity with variable reflectivity we measure the internal quantum efficiency of ηi=0.6 and internal losses of αi=10 cm−1 in a gain guided AlGaAs/GaAs laser operating at 850 nm. In addition, transparency current of I0∼0.46×Ith is obtained, in excellent agreement with a direct measurement.
Evaporation-induced assembly of biomimetic polypeptides (2008)

We report an evaporation assisted plasma lithography (EAPL) process for guided self-assembly of a biomimetic silk-elastinlike protein (SELP). We demonstrate the formation of SELP structures from millimeter to submicrometer range on plasma-treatment surface templates during an evaporation-induced self-assembly process. The self-assembly processes at different humidities and droplet volumes were investigated. The process occurs efficiently in a window of optimized operating conditions found to be at 70% relative humidity and 8μl volume of SELP solution. The EAPL approach provides a useful technique for the realization of functional devices and systems using these biomimetic materials.
Improving the Surface Finish of Concave and Convex Surfaces Using a Ball Burnishing Process (2011)

The ball burnishing process is done to improve the surface finish of workpieces that have been previously machined. In this article we present the results of tests performed with this process that was applied to workpieces with a convex or concave surface of two different materials: aluminum A92017 and steel G10380. An experiment to do the tests was designed. The results of measurements of surface roughness are presented in this paper as well. These results are compared to those measured in the workpieces before being burnished. After that conclusions are drawn about the improvement of surface roughness applied to the workpieces through the ball burnishing process. The main innovation of this paper is that we work with concave and convex geometries. We also obtain a table of recomended parameter values for the process.
'n Teoretiese raamwerk vi rdie implementering van kinderregte in Suid-Afrika (2004)

A theoretical framework for the implementation of children's rights in South Africa
The purpose of this article is to provide a theoretical framework for the implementation of children's rights in South Africa. The idea of children's rights is complex and involves philosophical, moral, legal and social considerations. To add to the complexity, a wide variety of rights are held to be typical of children's rights. Other factors, such as the enforceability of the rights and the social, political and economic consequences of implementation also need to be considered. The conclusion reached is that children's rights are immenslyimportant, but attempts to place these rights into practical context requires much care and thought. A theoretical framework of children's rights can be seen as a guide to finding practical answers to difficult questions.
Prehospital lactate improves prediction of the need for immediate interventions for hemorrhage after trauma (2019)

The blood lactate level is used to guide the management of trauma patients with circulatory disturbance. We hypothesized that blood lactate levels at the scene (Lac scene) could improve the prediction for immediate interventions for hemorrhage. We prospectively measured blood lactate levels and assessed retrospectively in 435 trauma patients both at the scene and on arrival at the emergency room (ER) of a level I trauma center. Primary outcome was immediate intervention for hemorrhage defined as surgical/radiological intervention and/or blood transfusion within 24 h. Physiological variables plus Lac scene significantly increased the predictive value for immediate intervention (area under the curve [AUC] 0.882, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.839-0.925) compared to that using physiological variables only (AUC 0.837, 95% CI 0.787-0.887, P = 0.0073), replicated in the validation cohort (n = 85). There was no significant improvement in predicting value of physiological variables plus Lac scene for massive transfusion compared to physiological variables (AUC 0.903 vs 0.895, P = 0.32). The increased blood lactate level per minute from scene to ER was associated with increased probability for immediate intervention (P < 0.0001). Both adding Lac scene to physiological variables and the temporal elevation of blood lactate levels from scene to ER could improve the prediction of the immediate intervention.
Larval therapy - an effective method of ulcer debridement (2003)

Since ancient times, larval therapy has been reputed to help wound healing. Its use has recently been rediscovered and it is now enjoying increasing interest in clinical practice, as well as in research. We have investigated the effects of larval therapy on wounds in an open study of 74 patients with necrotic or sloughy chronic ulcers of different aetiologies. We found larval therapy to effectively debride 86% of the necrotic ulcers, and a single application was clinically beneficial in two-thirds of the patients. Failure to debride was mostly attributable to larval death. No ulcer type was shown to be more suited to larval therapy than others; however, there was an excellent response in all 29 patients with diabetes. Larval therapy was also noted to reduce odour in 58% of the 31 foul-smelling ulcers of mixed aetiology. No serious side-effects were observed. One-quarter of the study group experienced less pain during treatment, while 41% felt no difference in pain, and, although 34% noted an increase in pain, most of these patients wanted to continue the treatment because of subjective and objective visual improvement in wound debridement. In conclusion, we found larval therapy to be effective for debriding ulcers, easy to use and well accepted by the patients.
Point-of-care biochemical assays using gold nanoparticle-implemented microfluidics (2014)

One of the goals of point-of-care (POC) is a chip-based, miniaturized, portable, self-containing system that allows the assay of proteins, nucleic acids, and cells in complex samples. The integration of nanomaterials and microfluidics can help achieve this goal. This tutorial review outlines the mechanism of assaying biomarkers by gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), and the implementation of AuNPs for microfluidic POC devices. In line with this, we discuss some recent advances in AuNP-coupled microfluidic sensors with enhanced performance. Portable and automated instruments for device operation and signal readout are also included for practical applications of these AuNP-combined microfluidic chips.
Glycine N-Methyltransferase Is an Example of Functional Diversity (1997)

The cytochrome P-4501A1 (CYP1A1) gene is regulated by several trans-acting factors including the 4 S polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH)-binding protein, which has recently been identified as glycine N-methyltransferase (GNMT) (Raha, A., Wagner, C., Macdonald, R. G., and Bresnick, E. (1994) J. Biol. Chem. 269, 5750-5756). The role of GNMT as a 4 S PAH-binding protein in mediating the induction of cytochrome P-4501A1 has been investigated further. GNMT cDNA, which was cloned into a pMAMneo vector containing the Rous sarcoma virus promoter and the neomycin resistance gene, was stably transfected into D422 Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. Several positive clones were selected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and assayed for the expression of recombinant protein. Western blot analysis indicated the expression of significant levels of the 4 S protein in the stably transfected CHO cells (CHO-GNMT). Cytosolic preparations from the CHO-GNMT showed high benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) binding but no 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) binding activity when compared with clones transfected with the pMAMneo vector alone (CHO-neo) or the parental CHO cells. Challanging the CHO-GNMT cells with 4 microM B[a]P resulted in elevated levels of CYP1A1 mRNA. Equally effective in inducing CYP1A1 mRNA were benzo[e]pyrene and 3-methylcholanthrene. On the other hand, TCDD did not induce CYP1A1 gene expression in these cells. B[a]P-treated CHO-GNMT, expressing the 4 S protein, also showed CYP1A1 protein by Western blotting and exhibited ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase activity; neither the CHO-neo or parental CHO cells were positive for any of these measures. No Ah receptor message or protein was detectable in the parental CHO, CHO-neo, or CHO-GNMT cells. Furthermore, no XRE binding activity was observed in TCDD-treated cytosolic preparations or nuclear extracts from CHO-GNMT cells that were treated with TCDD. These studies unequivocally establish that GNMT is a PAH-binding protein that can mediate the induction of CYP1A1 by PAHs such as B[a]P through an Ah receptor-independent pathway.