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Focal Adhesion Kinase: From In Vitro Studies to Functional Analyses In Vivo. Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is a non-receptor tyrosine kinase that has been shown to have key roles in cell migration, proliferation and survival. FAK activity can be stimulated in response to several types of extracellular ligands, including components of the extracellular matrix and growth factors, suggesting that FAK is an important integrator of multiple cues in the extracellular milieu. Recently, major progress has been made in understanding the molecular mechanisms regulating FAK activity. In particular, several novel proteins have been identified that can bind to FAK and inhibit its activity and associated cellular functions, including cell motility and invasion. Consistent with its critical functions in signal transduction, FAK also plays a pivotal role in mouse development. The inactivation of FAK in mice results in embryonic lethality around E8.5; this early embryonic lethal phenotype limits the use of the FAK total knockout mouse model for studying FAK function in later embryonic development stages and in adult mice. To overcome this problem, three independent groups created FAK/flox mice and generated several different FAK tissue-specific knockout mice models. Here we summarize the progress that has been made regarding the regulation of FAK-mediated signaling events in cell-based systems and also highlight the in vivo functions of FAK in a number of terminally differentiated cell lineages, including vascular endothelial cells, cardiomyocytes, neuronal cells, keratinocytes and several cancerous cell types. | [
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I Built My House of Hope: Abused Women and Pathways Into Homelessness. Violence from intimate partners is a serious reality for a number of women. For some abused women, leaving becomes a path to homelessness. In fact, when abused women and their children leave their homes because of partner abuse, they become homeless even if they subsequently seek residence in a shelter for woman abuse. This project interviewed 62 women from across Canada who had been abused by partners and were homeless at some point. The women were asked about their experiences with both partner abuse and homelessness and the effects on themselves and their children, which suggest important policy shifts. | [
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Rational design, synthesis, and photophysics of dual-emissive deoxyadenosine analogs. Dual-emissive deoxyadenosine analogs were engineered by compiling 7-deaza-7-ethynyl-2'-deoxyadenosine with two-color dyes, 3-HydroxyChromones (3HC), while electronically conjugating the N9-donor of the nucleobase with the 3HC carbonyl. Their spectroscopic properties were investigated in a set of solvents of different polarities. Several improvements in the 3HC photophysical features were obtained. A significant bathochromic shift moved absorption to the visible range, the extinction coefficient was almost doubled and the fluorescence emission displayed a mega-Stokes shift of the tautomer emission band (>175 nm). The ratio intensity of the dual emission demonstrated high sensitivity to polarity changes, offering a well-resolved green-yellow emission. Considering the strong donating ability of the N9, angular and reversed assemblies were also considered in order to tune the photophysics by weakening the excited-state dipole moment. | [
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Cell surface sialic acid inhibits Cx43 gap junction functions in constructed Hela cancer cells involving in sialylated N-cadherin. Numerous studies have shown that changes in the glycan structures of cells correlate with tumorigenesis, however, a casual link between the altered glycan structures and the abnormal GJIC in cancer cells is rarely studied. In this paper, we investigated the effects of sialic acid on the Cx43 gap junction functions, and clarified its potential mechanisms thereby. Sialidase significantly increased Cx43 gap junction functions in constructed Cx43-Hela cells along with down-regulation of cell surface sialic acid, which is dramatically reversed by sialidase inhibitor NeuAc2en. Further study indicated that sialidase failed to affect Cx43 at either protein or phosphorylation level, instead, it induced a considerable fraction of Triton X-100 insoluble, as compared with the untreated cells. We also found that sialidase treatment reduced the N-cadherin glycosylation and enhanced both Cx43-ZO-1 interaction and N-cadherin-ZO-1 association. Moreover, sialidase promoted the cell-cell adhesion with elevating N-cadherin binding to beta-catenin, accompanied by increasing colocalization of Cx43 with microtubules at the cell periphery. Based on live cell microscopy, with the FARP technology in the Cx43-EGFP-Hela cells, we found that Cx43 in the plague recovered more quickly in sialidase treatment group, indicating that sialidase could promote the Cx43 traffic to the plague. Overall, these studies indicate cell surface sialic acid on cancer cells may suppress Cx43 gap junction functions via inhibiting Cx43 traffic to the plague involving in sialylated N-cadherin, a process that likely underlies the intimate association between abnormal GJIC and glycosylation on cancer development. | [
2,
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Transition-state rate theory sheds light on 'black-box' biodegradation algorithms. Biodegradation is a predominant removal mechanism for organic pollutants in the aquatic and terrestrial environment and needs to be determined to design 'green chemicals' amongst an increasingly large set of industrial chemicals. Decades of research have been dedicated to producing biodegradation models, though improving those models has become problematic due to 'black box' models driven by incomparable or conflicting experimental results. In this study, we tested the plausibility and applicability of an intuitive algebraic formula stemming from transition-state rate theory. The formula is overarching, describing the pseudo first-order biodegradation rate constant in terms of computationally easily obtainable electronic, steric/geometrical, energetic and thermodynamic properties. Surprisingly, statistical evaluation using experimental data shows that the formula performs equal to or better than established 'black-box' models. We interpret the properties used, highlight the precise (inter)dependencies and discuss reaction- and diffusion-limiting mechanisms. Altogether, the work shows the potential to improve our understanding of biodegradation via 'first principles': it helps to unravel the causal mechanisms of the chemical fate in complex matrices. Amongst potential ramifications, this will enable a more precise and comprehensive environmental risk assessment. | [
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Osteopoikilosis: A case with osteopenia. Osteopoikilosis is a benign osteosclerotic dysplasia of unknown origin, which is an inherited autosomal disorder. It is usually asymptomatic and may only be recognized on radiological examination. We report a 20-year-old man who suffers from back and shoulder pain during the routine physical examinations performed prior to the military recruitment. Numerous symmetric, small, ovoid and circular sclerotic bone lesions were found on the X-rays of the spine and shoulder. Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) examination revealed osteopenia. In conclusion, typical radiographic examination of osteopoikilosis is usually diagnostic. However, it may sometimes be difficult to rule out the other diseases like osteoblastic metastatic lesions as it is an uncommon disease. Physicians should be aware of possible coexisiting osteopenia or osteoporosis as reported in our case. | [
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Automatic Text Summarization for Hindi Using Real Coded Genetic Algorithm. Featured Application This paper provides applicability of the Real Coded Genetic Algorithm to the Natural Language Processing Task, i.e., Text Summarization. The purpose of text summarization is to reduce an extensive document into a concise format such that the essence of the content is retained. By doing so, users can utilize the summarized document for vivid applications such as Question Answering, Machine Translation, Fake News Detection, and Named Entity Recognition to name a selected few. In the present scenario, Automatic Text Summarization (ATS) is in great demand to address the ever-growing volume of text data available online to discover relevant information faster. In this research, the ATS methodology is proposed for the Hindi language using Real Coded Genetic Algorithm (RCGA) over the health corpus, available in the Kaggle dataset. The methodology comprises five phases: preprocessing, feature extraction, processing, sentence ranking, and summary generation. Rigorous experimentation on varied feature sets is performed where distinguishing features, namely- sentence similarity and named entity features are combined with others for computing the evaluation metrics. The top 14 feature combinations are evaluated through Recall-Oriented Understudy for Gisting Evaluation (ROUGE) measure. RCGA computes appropriate feature weights through strings of features, chromosomes selection, and reproduction operators: Simulating Binary Crossover and Polynomial Mutation. To extract the highest scored sentences as the corpus summary, different compression rates are tested. In comparison with existing summarization tools, the ATS extractive method gives a summary reduction of 65%. | [
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Decreases in Radiation Oncology Medicare Reimbursement Over Time: Analysis by Billing Code. Methods and Materials: The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Physician/Supplier Procedure Summary database was used to obtain MCR data for RO HCPCS codes in 2010, 2015, and 2019. For each code, the total allowed charge was divided by the number of submitted claims to calculate the average MCR per claim in 2010, 2015, and 2019. The 2019 billing frequency for each code was then multiplied by the inflation-adjusted average MCR for those codes in 2010 and 2015 to determine what the MCR would have been in 2010 and 2015 using 2019 dollars and utilization rates. Results were compared with actual 2019 MCR to calculate the projected difference.Results: Total inflation-adjusted RO MCR was $2281 million (M), $1991 M, and $1848 M in 2010, 2015, and 2019 respectively. This represents a cut of $433 M (19%) and $143 M (7%) from 2010 and 2015, respectively, to 2019. After utilization adjustment, total reimbursement was $2534 M, $2034 M, and $1848 M for 2010, 2015, and 2019, respectively, representing a cut of $686 M (27%) and $186 M (9%) from 2010 and 2015, respectively, to 2019. Intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) treatment delivery and planning accounted for $917 M (36%), $670 M (33%), and $573 M (31%) of the adjusted MCR in 2010, 2015, and 2019, respectively.Conclusions: Medicare reimbursement decreased substantially from 2010 to 2019. A decline in IMRT treatment reimbursement was the primary driver of MCR decline. When considering further cuts, policymakers should consider these trends and their consequences for health care quality and access. (C) 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.Purpose: Radiation oncology (RO) has seen declines in Medicare reimbursement (MCR). However, there are no recent studies analyzing the contributions of specific billing codes to overall RO reimbursement. We compared total MCR for specific Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) codes in 2019 with MCR for those codes in 2010 and 2015, corrected for inflation, to see how the same basket of RO services in 2019 would have been reimbursed in 2010 and 2015 (adjusted MCR). | [
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Shared heritability and functional enrichment across six solid cancers. Quantifying the genetic correlation between cancers can provide important insights into the mechanisms driving cancer etiology. Using genome-wide association study summary statistics across six cancer types based on a total of 296,215 cases and 301,319 controls of European ancestry, here we estimate the pair-wise genetic correlations between breast, colorectal, head/neck, lung, ovary and prostate cancer, and between cancers and 38 other diseases. We observed statistically significant genetic correlations between lung and head/neck cancer (r(g) = 0.57, p = 4.6 x 10(-8)), breast and ovarian cancer (r(g) = 0.24, p = 7 x 10(-5)), breast and lung cancer (r(g) = 0.18, p = 1.5 x 10(-6)) and breast and colorectal cancer (r(g) = 0.15, p = 1.1 x 10(-4)). We also found that multiple cancers are genetically correlated with non-cancer traits including smoking, psychiatric diseases and metabolic characteristics. Functional enrichment analysis revealed a significant excess contribution of conserved and regulatory regions to cancer heritability. Our comprehensive analysis of cross-cancer heritability suggests that solid tumors arising across tissues share in part a common germline genetic basis. | [
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Denitrification of simulated oil by extraction with H2PO4-based ionic liquids. Three dihydrogen phosphate-based (H2PO4-,) ionic liquids (ILs) with different cations, i.e., 1-methylimidazolium ([HMIM]), 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium ([BMIM]), 1-methyl-3-(3-sulfopropyl)-imidazolium ([MIMPS]), are synthesized and investigated to determine their properties on the denitrification from simulated oil that compose of quinoline and n-heptane. Experimental results show that the mechanism of denitrification is not only liquid-liquid extraction, the acidity of ILs also contribute denitrification. With the increase of acidity, ILs show a high selectivity to quinoline. When ILs ([BMIM]H2PO4, [MIMPS]H2PO4) are used, under ambient conditions: temperature is 25 degrees C, time is 30 min, mass ratio of IL/oil is 1:10 and IL/H2O is 2:1, the rate of denitrification can reach more than 99%. They can be recycled for 6 times without significant decrease in activity. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved. | [
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Scalable multiple description video coding for stereoscopic 3D. Scalable multiple description video coding (MDC) provides adaptability to bandwidth variations and receiving device characteristics, and can improve error robustness in multimedia networks. In this paper, a scalable MDC scheme is proposed for stereoscopic 3D video. Scalable MDC has previously been applied to 2D video but not to 3D,ideo. The proposed algorithm enhances the error resilience of the base layer of the scalable video coding (SVC) standard using even and odd frame based MDC. The performance of the algorithm is evaluated in error free and error prone environments. Simulation results show improved performance using the proposed scalable MDC at high error rates compared to the original SVC. To improve the rate distortion performance, down-sampling of the depth information is proposed for SVC and scalable MDC. The proposed method reduces the overall bit rates and consequently: 1) improves their rate distortion, particularly at lower bit rates in error free channels; and 2) improves their performance in error prone channels. | [
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Alternative forms of the high-technology district: corridors, clumps, cores, campuses, subdivisions, and sites. Does a high-tech economy create fundamentally different places from other employment areas? In this paper I propose a typology of small to medium-scale high-technology districts in terms of their physical environments rather than their economic features (which is the more common basis of such classifications). I define a set of recognizable high-tech places: corridors, clumps, cores, comprehensive campuses, tech nology subdivisions, and scattered technology sites. I argue that there are many overlaps in design and layout with generic urban industrial and office development, and with planned new towns, university campuses, and garden suburbs. However, as this part of the economy grows, so too will the effect of such places on long-term urban sustainability and livability. It is important that planning and design for such developments consider larger effects on issues such as transportation options, energy use, housing balance, and sense of place. | [
3,
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Diodorus, Deuteronomy, and Egyptian Agriculture. The description of Egypt in Deut. 11: 10 has been variously interpreted. I suggest that a parallel in Diodorus Siculus shows continuity in Egyptian agricultural practice. | [
3,
270
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Aerodynamic Load Experiment Setup. This chapter introduces a series of model scale experiments undertaken at the TRAIN rig facility to assess aerodynamic forces subjected on an ISO container loaded onto a Class 66 hauled moving model container freight train in an open air and crosswind simulation. The TRAIN rig facility and crosswind generator, previously introduced in Sect. 2.1.1, are discussed in further detail in Sect. 5.1. Section 5.2 discusses adaptions to the moving model to include an on-board pressure monitoring system and data logger. Section 5.3 defines the coordinate system adopted for the aerodynamic load experiments and details of measuring positions. Trackside instrumentation, including measuring probes, position finders and ambient condition monitors are described in Sect. 5.3.2. The experiment methodology for the open air and crosswind sections, bringing together the experiment setup and instrumentation, is discussed in Sect. 5.4. | [
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Theory/Criticism: A Functionalist Approach to the 'Specific Intellectual' Work of Rhetorical Criticism. In this essay, the author uses a functionalist perspective to explore the tension between theory and criticism within contemporary rhetorical criticism. Theory and criticism, he argues, exist as the suspension of distinct but mutually constitutive practices. When scholars consider \\'theory/criticism\\' in this manner, several functions become evident: theory/criticism organizes the vocabulary necessary to analyze contradictory rhetorical phenomena; it authorizes the value and legitimacy of critical practice, and it makes intervention possible in the lived spaces and structures of specific intellectuals. | [
3,
63
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Air pollution and health risk assessment in Northeastern China: A case study of Jilin Province. In recent years, the pollution of the air environment has been increasing, which has seriously endangered human health. The large amount of coal burning and automobile exhaust emissions in winter have caused serious regional pollution, which has greatly increased the prevalence of respiratory disease of people. The purpose of this study is to use Jilin Province as an example to map out the environmental pollution status in Northeastern China, and to provide suggestions for the improvement of the atmospheric environment. Using the annual data of China's atmospheric monitoring, the atmospheric environment in Jilin was comprehensively analysed using ArcGIS, principal component analysis (PCA) and non-carcinogenic risk model calculations. The results showed that the temporal distribution of pollutants was winter > spring > autumn > summer, and the spatial distribution is decreasing from northwest to southeast. The PCA showed that the first principal components were PM2.5 and CO, and the second principal components were PM10 and O-3. The main sources of air pollution were coal-fired (62.365%) and automobile emissions (19.153%). The non-carcinogenic risks of pollutants are all within the acceptable range (1 x 10(-6)), but as age increases, the risk gradually decreases, and the risk value of male is higher than that of female. | [
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Bothrops colombiensis Venom Effect on Platelet Aggregattion. The venom total of Bothrops colombiensis (VBC) on platelet aggregation in humans was studied. One hundred twenty blood samples from volunteer donors were collected in sodium citrate 3.8%. Platelet aggregation was made in platelet-rich plasma (PRP), platelets washed with buffer tyrode pH 7.35 (PLBT) and in platelet incubated with inhibitors of platelet aggregation (PIAP): acetyl salicylic acid (ASA), ticlopidine and clopidogrel; the final concentration of platelet was 250 x 10(9)/L. Inducing agents used to aggregation were Epinephirine: 1x10(-5)M (final concentration: 11 mu g/mL), Adenosin 5 Disfosphate (ADP): 7.5x10(-6)M (final concentration: 2.14 mu g/mL), Collagen: 1.2x10(-2)M (final concentration: 3 mu g/mL), Ristocetin: 5.5x10(-4)M (final concentration: 1.2 mu g/mL). Final concentration of VBC (2.2xs 10(-4)) was incubated with PRP, PL, PIAP to observe the platelet aggregation. Furthermore, it was also examined the effect of PRP on VBC incubed with enzymatic inhibitors such as phenyl methyl sulfonyl fluoride (PMSF) (10.20 mu g/mL) and 2-Mercaptoethanol (4.57 mu g/mL). As well, etilendiaminotetracetic acid (EDTA) (64.00 mu g/mL) was used on platelet aggregation. The total VBC produced platelet aggregation more than 80% in PRP and PLBT (P<0.0001 and P<0.01, respectively), and reverted the inhibitor effect observed in PIAP (ASA and Clopidogrel P<0.05; ticlopidine P<0.01) and it inhibited the platelet aggregation significantly on incubated platelets | [
2,
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] |
Users Regard Operator Training as Critical for Successful POCT Applications. Results: Overall, 73 German participants from various medical disciplines completed the survey. All but one participant regarded operator training as important but only half of the participants' institutions conducted operator training on a regular basis. Participants often requested e-learning, but face-to-face teaching is still preferred. Twenty-one percent of participants already used e-learning and reported mixed satisfaction. Fifty-five percent of the participants never refer to the quality management manual. Instead, 94% stated that if a POCT error arises a contact person for POCT is always available at their workplace. The majority of participants think that external and, in particular, internal quality controls are important for POCT. Only a few difficulties for performing quality control such as \\'temporal expenditure\\' and \\'lack of information about the importance of internal quality control\\' were commonly mentioned. For future developments, participants expect evolution and improvements especially with regard to \\'measurement quality and reliability\\'. The answers of the experts in the in-depth interviews largely corresponded with the participants of the survey.Background: Point-of-care tests (POCT) measure analytes close to the patients and are a complementary supplement to the test menu of medical laboratories. However, the involvement of many different stakeholders makes it challenging to ensure reliable results.Conclusions: The importance of operator training is well established and confirmed in this work. How to conduct this training is less certain, but the answers in this survey suggest some form of blended learning with e-learning and practical elements. The discrepancy between the high importance that guidelines and other normative documents place on written information and their low practical usage was striking.Methods: In a survey, we asked experienced POCT users how they control their total POCT process and what factors they consider essential for success. Results were verified in four in-depth interviews. | [
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Inter-laboratory comparison of SiO2 analysis for geothermal water chemistry. The present analysis database consists of 27 datasets, analyzed by colorimetry (13 sets), atomic absorption spectrometry (7 sets) and inductively coupled plasma (7 sets) techniques. The analyses were performed with two procedures: (i) individual laboratory procedure (or conventional procedure) and (ii) dilution of samples in the range 50-200 ppm SiO2. The mean ((x) over bar) and standard deviation (s) calculation after eliminating extreme values (outliers) with (x) over bar +/- 2s method was used for the statistical data treatment. Presently, the overall error in the analysis is at least +/- 10%. A comparison of analytical error and uncertainty for individual analytical technique suggests that the inductively coupled plasma (ICP) and colorimetry are relatively better techniques for the analysis of SiO2 in geothermal waters; however, there are some statistical artifacts on the colorimetric results because their number of measurements was double that of atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) and ICP. The analysis quality (i.e., precision and accuracy) may be improved by using the data control procedure with some high quality standard (e.g., NIST standards). One of the factors of systematic error is associated with the preparation of laboratory standards. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.The results of an inter-laboratory comparison of silica analysis of seven water samples (coded as IIE19-IIE25) are presented. The first six samples (IIE19-IIE24) were prepared by diluting a certain amount of silicon (Si) standard 1000 +/- 0.1% ppm, HYCEL, Mexico, in distilled water, while the seventh sample IIE25 is natural geothermal water. The conventional true values for the silica (SiO2) concentration of IIE19-IIE24 are 61.1, 213.9, 366.7, 520, 825, and 978 ppm, respectively. | [
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Tumor protein 53-induced nuclear protein 1 expression is repressed by miR-155, and its restoration inhibits pancreatic tumor development. Pancreatic cancer is a disease with an extremely poor prognosis. Tumorprotein 53-induced nuclearprotein 1 (TP53INP1) is a proapoptotic stress-induced p53 target gene. In this article, we show by immunohistochemical analysis that TP53INP1 expression is dramatically reduced in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinorna (PDAC) and this decrease occurs early during pancreatic cancer development. TP53INP1 reexpression in the pancreatic cancer-derived cell line MiaPaCa2 strongly reduced its capacity to form s.c., i.p., and intrapancreatic tumors in nude mice. This anti-tumoral capacity is, at least in part, due to the induction of caspase 3-mediated apoptosis. In addition, TP53INP1(-/-) mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) transformed with a retrovirus expressing E1A/ras(V12) oncoproteins developed bigger tumors than TP53INP1(+/+) transformed MEFs or TP53INP1(-/-) transformed MEFs with restored TP53INP1 expression. Finally, TP53INP1 expression is repressed by the oncogenic micro RNA miR-155, which is overexpressed in PDAC cells. TP53INP1 is a previously unknown miR-155 target presenting anti-tumoral activity. | [
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Grain size effect on the martensitic transformation temperatures of nanocrystalline NiTi alloy. The grain size effect on B19' martensitic transformation temperatures of a nanocrystalline Ti-50.2 at%Ni alloy was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis and (TEM) observation. It was found that the R -> B19' transformation temperature decreases with decreasing grain size in the range of 50-150 nm, whilst the reverse B19' -> R transformation temperature remains independent of grain size, leading to an increase of the hysteresis with decreasing grain size. The observed effects of grain size on the characteristics of the R <-> B19' transformation are attributed to variations of both the elastic and the irreversible energies of the martensitic transformation in the nanograin regime. | [
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Effect of water and oxygen contents on the decomposition of gaseous trichloroethylene in air under electron beam irradiation. An electron beam (EB) treatment of gaseous trichloroethylene (TCE) in air was studied as a purification method of off-gases containing gaseous chloroethylenes. The model air containing TCE at input concentrations of 5-75 ppmv, detected mostly in actual off-gases, was irradiated with 1-MeV EBs in a gas-flow vessel at 10 L/min under the conditions of atmospheric pressure, 298 K, and different H2O Contents. The decomposition of 75 ppmv TCE was also examined in humid air under different O-2 contents of 1 X 10(3)-2.1 X 10(5) ppMV. In the existence of H2O and O-2 contents with greater than or equal to 3 X 10(2) ppmv and greater than or equal to 5 X 10(3) ppmv, respectively, the decomposition ratios of TCE were enhanced and TCE was decomposed into 83.0 +/- 1.5% of dichloroacetyl chloride (DCAC) and 17.5 +/- 0.6% of carbonyl chloride (COCl2) independently of the input TCE concentrations based on the carbon balance. Trichloroethylene of 5-75 ppmv was effectively decomposed by the OH radical through Cl-radical chain oxidation under the above-mentioned air conditions. | [
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Camera-augmented mobile C-arm (CamC): A feasibility study of augmented reality imaging in the operating room. BackgroundIn orthopaedic trauma surgery, image-guided procedures are mostly based on fluoroscopy. The reduction of radiation exposure is an important goal. The purpose of this work was to investigate the impact of a camera-augmented mobile C-arm (CamC) on radiation exposure and the surgical workflow during a first clinical trial.ConclusionsThe intuitiveness of the system, its easy integration into the surgical workflow, and its great potential to reduce radiation have been demonstrated.MethodsApplying a workflow-oriented approach, 10 general workflow steps were defined to compare the CamC to traditional C-arms. The surgeries included were arbitrarily identified and assigned to the study. The evaluation criteria were radiation exposure and operation time for each workflow step and the entire surgery. The evaluation protocol was designed and conducted in a single-centre study.ResultsThe radiation exposure was remarkably reduced by 18 X-ray shots 46% using the CamC while keeping similar surgery times. | [
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Museum guests as contributors to regional food innovation. Museums, science centres and other visitor attractions find inspiration for development from many sources, including their own guests. This article describes a guest experiment undertaken at a Danish marine science centre. It was found that mussels represent a captivating topic of interpretation with many aspects. However, guests are generally very conservative in their feedback. The benefits of involving and observing guests are primarily found in the phenomenological insight into the social contexts of food that this involvement and observation afford, particularly in the relationships between children and their parents. This study illustrates the potential of interpretative elements in more comprehensive regional line-mussel production and branding initiatives, including at the science centre and beyond. We suggest that further advanced phenomenological studies can be informative for all actors involved in regional mussel cultivation, distribution and marketing, which also include regional business actors and university partners. | [
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Absolute deflection measurements in a micro- and nano-electromechanical Fabry-Perot interferometry system. Fabry-Perot laser interferometry is a common laboratory technique used to interrogate resonant micro- and nano-electromechanical systems (MEMS/NEMS). This method uses the substrate beneath a vibrating MEMS/NEMS device as a static reference mirror, encoding relative device motion in the reflected laser power. In this work, we present a general approach for calibrating these optical systems based on measurements of large-amplitude motion that exceeds one half of the laser wavelength. Utilizing the intrinsic nonlinearity of the optical transduction, our method enables the direct measurement of the system's transfer function (motion-to-detected-voltage). We experimentally demonstrate the use of this technique to measure vibration amplitudes and changes in the equilibrium position of a MEMS/NEMS device using monolithic silicon nitride and silicon cantilevers as sample systems. By scanning the laser along a cantilever surface, we spatially map static and dynamic deflection profiles simultaneously and then compare the static profile against results from a commercial optical profilometer. We further demonstrate the extension of our calibration technique to measurements taken at small amplitudes, where the optical transduction is linear, and to those taken in the frequency domain by a lock-in amplifier. Our aim is to present a robust calibration scheme that is independent of MEMS/NEMS materials and geometry, to completely negate the effects of nonlinear optical transduction, and to enable the assessment of excitation forces and MEMS/NEMS material properties through the accurate measurement of the MEMS/NEMS vibrational response. | [
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History of art paintings through the lens of entropy and complexity. Art is the ultimate expression of human creativity that is deeply influenced by the philosophy and culture of the corresponding historical epoch. The quantitative analysis of art is therefore essential for better understanding human cultural evolution. Here, we present a large-scale quantitative analysis of almost 140,000 paintings, spanning nearly a millennium of art history. Based on the local spatial patterns in the images of these paintings, we estimate the permutation entropy and the statistical complexity of each painting. These measures map the degree of visual order of artworks into a scale of order disorder and simplicity complexity that locally reflects qualitative categories proposed by art historians. The dynamical behavior of these measures reveals a clear temporal evolution of art, marked by transitions that agree with the main historical periods of art. Our research shows that different artistic styles have a distinct average degree of entropy and complexity, thus allowing a hierarchical organization and clustering of styles according to these metrics. We have further verified that the identified groups correspond well with the textual content used to qualitatively describe the styles and the applied complexity entropy measures can be used for an effective classification of artworks. | [
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Hypogymnia physodes - A lichen with interesting medicinal potential and ecological properties. Hypogymnia physodes (L.) Nyl. is a lichenized fungus within the Parmeliaceae family that commonly occurs in Europe and in many other parts of the world. As a result of the specific relationship between a heterotrophic fungus and an autotrophic photobiont - algae or cyanobacteria among others - some secondary compounds not found among plants are produced. So far the presence of depsidones: physodalic acid, physodic acid, 3-hydro-xyphysodic acid, 2'-O-methylphysodic acid, and protocetraric acid as well as depsides: atranorin and chloroatranorin, has been confirmed in H. physodes. Studies revealed interesting biological properties of depsidones and the extracts from H. physodes. The literature data has proved their antibacterial and antioxidant activity as well as cancer cell cytotoxicity and inhibitory effects on enzymes. Depsidones from H. physodes also influenced the cells of the immune system. Moreover, this lichen is often used in bioindicator and biomonitoring studies that enable the assessment of environmental conditions as well as air pollution. | [
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42
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Interface Chemical Modification between All-Inorganic Perovskite Nanocrystals and Porous Silica Microspheres for Composite Materials with Improved Emission. In recent years, there has been rapid progress in the development of photonic devices based on lead halide perovskite nanocrystals since they possess a set of unique optical and charge transport properties. However, the main limiting factor for their subsequent application is poor stability against exposure to adverse environmental conditions. In this work, a study of a composite material based on perovskite CsPbBr3 nanocrystals embedded in porous silica microspheres is presented. We developed two different approaches to change the interface between nanocrystals and the surface of the microsphere pores: surface treatment of (i) nanocrystals or (ii) microspheres. The surface modification with tetraethylorthosilicate molecules not only increased stability but also improved the optical responses of the composite material. The position of the emission band remained almost unchanged, but its lifetime increased significantly compared to the initial value. The improvement of the optical performance via surface modification with tetraethylorthosilicate molecules also works for the lead-free Bi-doped Cs2AgInCl6 double perovskite nanocrystals leading to increased stability of their optical responses at ambient conditions. These results clearly demonstrate the advantage of a composite material that can be used in novel photonic devices with improved performance. | [
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Effect of short-term administration of prostaglandin E-1 on viability after ischemia/reperfusion injury with extended hepatectomy in cirrhotic rat liver. The cytoprotective effect of prostaglandin E-1 (PGE(1)) has been demonstrated experimentally and clinically against hepatic ischemia and reperfusion injury and against the effects of partial hepatectomy in both individual and combined models of noncirrhotic livers. Cirrhotic livers are more vulnerable to ischemia/reperfusion injury during hepatectomy than are noncirrhotic livers, and postoperative malfunctioning complicates life with multiple organ failure. Cirrhotic livers with tumors have mostly been treated conservatively because extended hepatectomy with induced ischemia during surgery is impossible. The purpose of our study was to document postoperative surgical adaptation in inoperable cases with improved survival after extended hepatectomy in a rat model of cirrhosis treated by PGE(1). Cirrhosis was induced by intraperitoneal injections of 1% dimethylnitrosamine. The liver was subjected to 15 minutes of total ischemia by occluding the hepatoduodenal ligament. Hepatectomy was performed during ischemia. Pretreatment with PGE(1) (0.4 mug/kg/min) (or without it in the controls) was given for 15 minutes by intravenous infusion prior to inducing ischemia and during reperfusion. Portal venous flow (PVF) and liver tissue blood flow (LTBF) were measured during reperfusion. At the end of 60 minutes of reperfusion, venous blood was collected for liver function tests. The animals were followed up regarding survival for 48 hours. The PVF and LTBF were significantly improved in the PGE(1) group. The blood chemical analysis indicated that PGE(1) significantly suppressed posthepatectomy liver dysfunction. Most importantly, PGE(1) treatment markedly improved the survival rate, from 42% in the controls to 75% in the test animals at 24 hours after hepatectomy and from 17% in the controls to 58% in the test animals at 48 hours. We concluded that short-term administration of PGE(1) makes extensive hepatectomy possible under ischemic conditions in cirrhotic livers. | [
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Towards understanding the ordering behavior of hard needles: Analytical solutions in one dimension. We re-examine the ordering behavior of a one-dimensional fluid of freely rotating hard needles, where the centers of mass of the particles are restricted to a line. Analytical equations are obtained for the equation of state, order parameter, and orientational correlation functions using the transfer-matrix method if some simplifying assumptions are applied for either the orientational freedom or the contact distance between two needles. The two-state Zwanzig model accounts for the orientational ordering, but it produces unphysical pressure at high densities and there is no orientational correlation. The four-state Zwanzig model gives reasonable results for orientational correlation function, but the pressure is still poorly represented at high densities. In the continuum limit, apart from the orientational correlation length it is managed to reproduce all relevant bulk properties of the hard needles using an approximate formula for the contact distance. The results show that the orientational correlation length diverges at zero and infinite pressures. The high-density behavior of the fluid of needles is not resolved. | [
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Synthesis of protein kinase C delta C1b domain by native chemical ligation methodology and characterization of its folding and ligand binding. The C1b domain of protein kinase C delta (PKC delta), a potent receptor for ligands such as diacylglycerol and phorbol esters, was synthesized by utilizing native chemical ligation. With this synthetic strategy, the domain was efficiently constructed and shown to have high affinity ligand binding and correct folding. The C1b domain has been utilized for the development of novel ligands for the control of phosphorylation by PKC family members. This strategy will pave the way for the efficient construction of C1b domains modified with fluorescent dyes, biotin, etc. Copyright (C) 2009 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. | [
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Do clinimetric properties of LCI change after correction of signal processing?. Background The recently described sensor-crosstalk error in the multiple-breath washout (MBW) device Exhalyzer D (Eco Medics AG) could highly influence clinimetric properties and the current interpretation of MBW results. This study reanalyzes MBW data from clinical routine in the corrected software version Spiroware (R) 3.3.1 and evaluates the effect on outcomes. Methods We included nitrogen-MBW data from healthy children and children with cystic fibrosis (CF) from previously published trials and ongoing cohort studies. We specifically compared lung clearance index (LCI) analyzed in Spiroware 3.2.1 and 3.3.1 with regard to (i) feasibility, (ii) repeatability, and (iii) validity as outcome parameters in children with CF. Results (i) All previously collected measurements could be reanalyzed and resulted in unchanged feasibility in Spiroware 3.3.1. (ii) Short- and midterm repeatability of LCI was similar in both software versions. (iii) Clinical validity of LCI remained similar in Spiroware 3.3.1; however, this resulted in lower values. Discrimination between health and disease was comparable between both software versions. The increase in LCI over time was less pronounced with 0.16 LCI units/year (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.08; 0.24) versus 0.30 LCI units/year (95% CI 0.21; 0.38) in 3.2.1. Response to intervention in children receiving CF transmembrane conductance-modulator therapy resulted in a comparable improvement in LCI, in both Spiroware versions. Conclusion Our study confirms that clinimetric properties of LCI remain unaffected after correction for the cross-sensitivity error in Spiroware software. | [
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Clustering-based and QoS-aware services composition algorithm for ambient intelligence. Due to the dynamic nature of ubiquitous computing and ambient intelligence (AmI) environments, a challenging issue that needs to be addressed is how to construct composite services that satisfy users' requirements in terms of quality of service (QoS). In this paper, a clustering-based and QoS-aware services composition algorithm (CQCA) is proposed. To increase the composition optimality and reduce the composition time, the candidate services are first partitioned into clusters, where each cluster represents a QoS level. In addition. a new formulation of the utility function based on the use of the characteristics of the resulting clusters is proposed to remove unpromising candidate services in terms of QoS. A lexicographic optimization method is then exploited to filter out candidate services that have low QoS attributes values. Finally, a search tree is constructed to find near-to-optimal compositions. The obtained performance shows that the proposed algorithm outperforms other composition approaches by finding very near-to-optimal compositions in a reduced composition time. (C) 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. | [
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A Deep Learning Method for Limited-View Intravascular Photoacoustic Image Reconstruction. Intravascular photoacoustic tomography (IVPAT) is a newly developed imaging modality in the interventional diagnosis and treatment of coronary artery diseases. Incomplete acoustic measurement caused by limitedview scanning of the detector in the vascular lumen results in under-sampling artifacts and distortion in the images reconstructed by using the standard reconstruction methods. A method for limited-view IVPAT image reconstruction based on deep learning is presented in this paper. A convolutional neural network (CNN) is constructed and trained with computer-simulated image data set. Then, the trained CNN is used to optimize the cross-sectional images of the vessel which are recovered from the incomplete photoacoustic measurements by using the standard time-reversal (TR) algorithm to obtain the images with the improved quality. Results of numerical demonstration indicate that the method can effectively reduce the image distortion and artifacts caused by the limited-view detection. Furthermore, it is superior to the compressed sensing (CS) method in recovering the unmeasured information of the imaging target with the structural similarity around 10% higher than CS reconstruction. | [
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Altimetry, bathymetry and geoid variations at the Gavdos permanent Cal/Val facility. Using 3.5 years of Jason-2 calibration data and careful data analysis, certain features and variations, with permanent signatures at some locations south of Gavdos, have been found in the altimeter bias values. Causes of these variations have been interpreted. Some of these features, for example, at 12 km south of the Cal/Val site seem to be related to the general oceanographic circulation, but others of short wavelength (in the order of 1 km) are because of the insufficient geoid model resolution. Along Pass No. 109, the concealed effect of bathymetry on the geoid has produced a slope of 3.1 cm over 14-21 km from Gavdos. Along the other Pass No.18 and in the range 12-21 km, a slope in the geoid model, caused again by the sharp changes in the topography of seafloor (from 300 to 3200 m depth over a distance of 10 km), have been discovered. Those geoid model imperfections of short wavelength do not change the previously reported bias values.The aim of this work has been to examine the relationship of steep bathymetry in the coastal areas around the permanent Cal/Val facility of Gavdos, and their influence on the produced calibration values for the Jason-2 satellite altimeter. The paper describes how changes in seafloor topography (from 200 to 3500 m depth over a distance of 10 km) are reflected on the determined altimeter parameters using different reference surfaces for satellite calibration. Finally, it describes the relation between these parameter trends and the region's local characteristics.Finally, boat campaigns that took place for verifying the previous features, were also used to determine an altimeter bias of B = +19.6 +/- 4.5 cm, for cycle = 80, at 15:14:58 UTC, on 7-Sept-2010, along Pass No. 109. Calibration took place at a distance of about 19 km south of Gavdos, in the open sea while Jason-2 was flying over. (C) 2012 COSPAR. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. | [
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Spline regression modelling of PTO performance of tractor fuelled with different biodiesels. The objective of this study was to investigate the possibility of fitting spline regression models for power take-off (PTO) performance characteristics of an agricultural tractor tested with four different fuels, including diesel fuel (B0) and three biodiesel blends made of canola oil (B10: 10% biodiesel + 90% petro-diesel blend; B20: 20% biodiesel + 90% petro-diesel blend; B30: 30% biodiesel + 90% petro-diesel blend). The performance characteristics evaluated were PTO power, engine torque, engine fuel consumption, and specific fuel consumption. Due to sharp slopes in measured quantities around the nominal engine speed (2200 r/min), compared to the standard regression method, the spline regression models suited well to the experimental data with coefficient of determination R-2= 0.99 for PTO power and engine torque. R-2 varied between 0.97 and 0.99 for fuel consumption and 0.91 and 0.95 for specific fuel consumption. The weaker correlation found for specific fuel consumption could be attributed to profound fluctuations in measured data causing atypical pattern in the corresponding graphs around the nominal engine speed. It was concluded that splines were useful to accurately predict the measured PTO power and engine torque. Neither standard methods nor splines were sufficient to obtain very good regression models for specific fuel consumption. | [
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Divergent genetic mechanism leads to spiny hair in rodents. Spines, or modified hairs, have evolved multiple times in mammals, particularly in rodents. In this study, we investigated the evolution of spines in six rodent families. We first measured and compared the morphology and physical properties of hairs between paired spiny and non-spiny sister lineages. We found two distinct hair morphologies had evolved repeatedly in spiny rodents: hairs with a grooved cross-section and a second near cylindrical form. Compared to the ancestral elliptical-shaped hairs, spiny hairs had higher tension and stiffness, and overall, hairs with similar morphology had similar functional properties. To examine the genetic basis of this convergent evolution, we tested whether a single amino acid change (V370A) in the Ectodysplasin A receptor (Edar) gene is associated with spiny hair, as this substitution causes thicker and straighter hair in East Asian human populations. We found that most mammals have the common amino acid valine at position 370, but two species, the kangaroo rat (non-spiny) and spiny pocket mouse (spiny), have an isoleucine. Importantly, none of the variants we identified are associated with differences in rodent hair morphology. Thus, the specific Edar mutation associated with variation in human hair does not seem to play a role in modifying hairs in wild rodents, suggesting that different mutations in Edarand/or other genes are responsible for variation in the spiny hair phenotypes we observed within rodents. | [
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MONTE-CARLO TECHNIQUES FOR QUANTITATIVE UNCERTAINTY ANALYSIS IN PUBLIC-HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENTS. Most public health risk assessments assume and combine a series of average, conservative, and worst-case values to derive a conservative point estimate of risk. This procedure has major limitations. This paper demonstrates a new methodology for extended uncertainty analyses in public health risk assessments using Monte Carlo techniques. The extended method begins as do some conventional methods-with the preparation of a spreadsheet to estimate exposure and risk. This method, however, continues by modeling key inputs as random variables described by probability density functions (PDFs). Overall, the technique provides a quantitative way to estimate the probability distributions for exposure and health risks within the validity of the model used. As an example, this paper presents a simplified case study for children playing in soils contaminated with benzene and benzo(a)pyrene (BaP). | [
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Epidemiology and genetics of cystic fibrosis in Asia: In preparation for the next-generation treatments. Cystic fibrosis (CF) in the Asian population is less frequently reported due to under-diagnosis and lack of centralized CF patient registries. Clinical studies on CF cases from Asia have documented a severe course of the disease. The spectrum of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) variants in this population is quite heterogeneous. In total, 166 variants have been reported on approximately 3700 Asian CF chromosomes. The frequency of F508del among Asians is low compared with Caucasians. Recent in vitro studies have shown promise of small molecule correction and potentiation of 45 different CFTR variants. Of these variants, 16 (including G551D and F508del) have also been observed among Asian CF individuals. We suggest undertaking molecular studies extensively to annotate CFTR variants that will help Asian CF individuals to benefit from the precision medicine gaining momentum in the Western countries. | [
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Thermal analysis of hypersonic reactive flows on the SARA Brazilian satellite reentry trajectory. Numerical simulations of hypersonic flows are presented for the Brazilian satellite SARA undergoing atmospheric reentry. The Navier-Stokes equations are numerically solved by the finite volume method with the inclusion of chemical source terms to model the effects of dissociation and ionization. The two-temperature model proposed by Park is employed to analyze the translational-rotational and vibrational-electronic temperature modes. Despite the low density conditions, which lead to high mean free paths, a comparison of the present results against those obtained by DSMC shows that the present calculations are sufficiently accurate even at the highest altitude considered. Moreover, estimates of the Knudsen numbers for the present test cases indicate that they are sufficiently low to justify the continuum model. A mesh refinement study is carried out in order to evaluate the influence of near-wall mesh spacing and the number of volumes in the normal and longitudinal directions of the flow on the calculation of the heat flux over the satellite surface. Analysis of the results shows that thermodynamic non-equilibrium occurs along the entire reentry trajectory of the satellite. While for high altitudes the flow density is extremely low, at lower altitudes supersonic conditions are achieved and, in both cases, chemical reactions are not relevant. On the other hand, for some intermediate altitudes of the reentry trajectory, thermodynamic non-equilibrium is severely affected by the chemical reactions. In these cases, a weak ionization occurs besides dissociation of the gas species and the accurate prediction of the surface heat flux requires a reactive gas model. | [
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Risk Factors for Skin Tears Following Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum to Treat Dupuytren Contractures. Results A total of 117 patients (174 cords) met inclusion criteria. There was a 25.6% incidence of skin tears (30 of 117 patients; 33 skin tears). Multivariable regression analysis revealed that patients with a combined digital flexion contracture (total combined metacarpophalangeal, proximal interphalangeal, and distal interphalangeal joint contracture) of 75 degrees and greater and those treated with 2 simultaneous doses of CCH in the same hand were more likely to sustain a tear. All skin tears healed with nonsurgical management at short-term follow-up.Method Over a 6-year period, patients with a measurable metacarpophalangeal or proximal interphalangeal joint Dupuytren contracture and a palpable cord treated with CCH were prospectively observed. Patients were assessed for the development of skin tears immediately on the day of manipulation as well 30 days or more after manipulation.Purpose Skin tears are an unpleasant complication that may occur after collagenase Clostridium histolyticum (CCH) administration to treat Dupuytren contractures of the fingers. The purpose of this study was to determine risk factors for the development of this complication.Conclusion. Although a relatively minor complication, skin tears are not well-tolerated by all patients and may change the postinjection course of orthosis use, wound care, and manual activity. Based on these results, patients with digital contractures 75 degrees or greater and those treated with 2 simultaneous doses of CCH in the same hand may be counseled that they have a higher likelihood of developing a skin tear during manipulation. Pretreatment education may reduce anxiety experienced by patients who otherwise unexpectedly develop a skin tear at the time of manipulation. Copyright (C) 2020 by the American Society for Surgery of the Hand. All rights reserved. | [
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Effect of different levels of fertilization by irrigation on morphophysiological characteristics of spinach. Effect of different levels of fertilization by irrigation on morphophysiological characteristics of spinach. The aim of this research was to evaluate the effect of fertilization on morpho-physiological characteristics of spinach seedlings (Tetragonia tetragonoides). The experiment was carried out at the Agrarian Science Faculty of the Federal University of Grande Dourados (UFGD), and used Murer (R) liquid fertilizer. The experimental design was randomized blocks, with six doses of liquid fertilizer in water for irrigation (0, 1.25, 2.5, 5.0, 10.0 and 20.0 mL L(-1)) and four replications. Two fertilizations per irrigation were done, at 8 and 22 days after germination (DAG). Morpho-physiological characteristics were determined. It was concluded that fertilizations by irrigation promoted a greater number of leaves and greater values of length, fresh and dried mass of aerial parts of plants, leaf area and dried mass of roots for spinach seedlings. The 20.0 mL L(-1) dose resulted in statistically different results from those recommended by the manufacturer (5.0 mL L(-1)), increasing the number of leaves, aerial part length, aerial part fresh weight and leaf area. | [
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Shape evolution of lead telluride and selenide nanostructures under different hydrothermal synthesis conditions. Face-open nanoboxes of lead telluride and selenide have been synthesized by a simple hydrothermal method. Nano- and microcrystals of various morphologies, including microflowers, semimicroflowers, cubic nanoparticles, etc., have also been observed at different synthesis conditions. Temperature, time, and concentrations of various reactants play a major role in controlling the morphology and shape evolution of the product. This simple synthesis technique for the growth of various nano- and microstructures opens a new route to prepare hierarchical structures of a variety of binary semiconducting materials in a large quantity. A possible growth mechanism of such nano- and microstructures has been proposed. | [
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Dispersion analysis of asymmetric band shapes: Application to the IR absorption spectrum of silica glass. The IR absorption spectrum of silica glass in the 3800 to 8000 cm(-1) region is analyzed based on the assumption of asymmetric band shapes. For simulating the asymmetric band shapes, a generalized version of the convolution model for the complex dielectric constant is proposed that involves different magnitudes of the standard deviation for an oscillator distribution in the wavenumber regions below and above the distribution center. A computational program for the dispersion analysis of the absorption spectra using such a model is developed. Best fit to the IR spectrum of silica glass obtained with the asymmetric band shapes contains no systematic errors throughout the contours of the 4400-4600 and 7000-7300 cm(-1) absorption maxima, thus having appreciably better quality than fits obtainable with the symmetric band shapes inherent in the usual convolution model. A high accuracy of simulating the 7000-7300 cm(-1) absorption maximum with the asymmetric band shapes is attained when using as few as two bands in this region, which is in contrast to available literature sources assuming four bands. The band frequencies and intensities calculated with the asymmetric and symmetric band shapes are compared. (C) 2004 Kluwer Academic Publishers. | [
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METHYLTRANSFERASE1and Ripening Modulate Vivipary during Tomato Fruit Development(1)([OPEN]). Vivipary, wherein seeds germinate prior to dispersal while still associated with the maternal plant, is an adaptation to extreme environments. It is normally inhibited by the establishment of dormancy. The genetic framework of vivipary has been well studied; however, the role of epigenetics in vivipary remains unknown. Here, we report that silencing ofMETHYLTRANSFERASE1(SlMET1) promoted precocious seed germination and seedling growth within the tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) epimutantColorless non-ripening(Cnr) fruits. This was associated with decreases in abscisic acid concentration and levels of mRNA encoding 9-cis-epoxycarotenoid-dioxygenase (SlNCED), which is involved in abscisic acid biosynthesis. Differentially methylated regions were identified in promoters of differentially expressed genes, includingSlNCED.SlNCEDknockdown also induced viviparous seedling growth inCnrfruits. Strikingly,Cnrripening reversion suppressed vivipary. Moreover, neitherSlMET1/SlNCED-virus-induced gene silencing nor transgenicSlMET1-RNA interference produced vivipary in wild-type tomatoes; the latter affected leaf architecture, arrested flowering, and repressed seed development. Thus, a dual pathway in ripening andSlMET1-mediated epigenetics coordinates the blockage of seed vivipary.Analysis of a unique tomato epiallele reveals an epigenetic pathway that, along with the ripening process, modulates vivipary in tomato fruits. | [
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Design, synthesis, stereochemical determination, molecular docking study, in silico pre-ADMET prediction and anti-proliferative activities of indole-pyrimidine derivatives as Mcl-1 inhibitors. In this study, fourteen novel indole-pyrimidine hybrids were designed and synthesized. Their chemical structures were confirmed using different spectroscopic techniques (1H NMR, 13C NMR, IR and mass). Their (E) stereochemical configuration was determined theoretically (MM2 property) and experimentally using 2D NMR technique (NOESY experiment). The prepared compounds were subjected to preliminary biological studies as Mcl-1 inhibitors. Most of the compounds exhibited good abilities for targeting Mcl-1 protein, especially, 7d, 7e, 7i and 7k (Ki = 11.19-15.21 nM). These derivatives were further evaluated against Bcl-XL and Bcl-2 proteins. Some compounds were found to have dual Mcl-1/Bcl-XL such as 7i, or Bcl-XL/Bcl-2 inhibitory activity as 7d. The most potent derivatives as Mcl-1 inhibitors were chosen as representative examples for determination of in-vitro anti-proliferative activity against PC-3, K-562 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines. They possessed excellent to good anti-proliferative activities. All of the synthesized compounds were docked into Mcl-1 active site. Druglikeness properties and in silico pre-ADMET characters were also predicted. | [
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Chemical structures of the Cu(In,Ga)Se(2)/Mo and Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)(2)/Mo interfaces. Using a suitable lift-off technique, we have investigated the chemical properties of the interface between Mo and chalcopyrite compound semiconductors by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and x-ray excited Auger-electron spectroscopy. By a systematic comparison of interfaces between S-free [Cu(In,Ga)Se(2) (CIGSe)] as well as S-containing [Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)(2) (CIGSSe)] chalcopyrites and Mo, we find that the chemical structure at the CIG(S)Se/Mo interface is strongly influenced by the presence or absence of S. We observe an interfacial MoSe(2) [Mo(S(Z)Se(1-Z))(2)] layer formed between CIGSe [CIGSSe] and the Mo layer. The Mo(S(Z)Se(1-Z))(2) layer appears significantly thinner than the MoSe(2) layer and exhibits a different S / (S + Se) ratio [Z=0.9(1)] than the CIGSSe back side [0.5(7)], giving insight into the \\'competition\\' between S and Se during contact formation. Furthermore, we find a significant Ga accumulation at the Mo back contact, which points to pronounced chemical interactions during the formation of the CIG(S)Se/Mo interface. | [
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Trichomoniasis in asymptomatic patients. Background: Trichomoniasis is an extremely common infection worldwide and is associated with important public health problems, including amplification of HIV transmission. This disease is in forms of symptomatic and asymptomatic in women and may depend on host as well as parasite variables. Thus the aim of this study was to evaluate the patients attending gynecology clinic with different symptoms and checked them for Trichomonas infection.Conclusion: According to the epidemiological aspects, these asymptomatic patients are very important as healthy carriers, and T. vaginalis infections are commonly associated with other STDs and are a marker of high-risk sexual behavior. Thus laboratories could play important role for diagnosis of infection and help the physicians for properly treatment.Results: Out of 853 samples collected, 8(0.9%) were positive for T. vaginalis and the number of asymptomatic patients for trichomoniasis were 1.3 times more than infected samples belong to symptomatic ones. Per speculum examination revealed that 75% of T. vaginalis positive subjects had normal appearance of vagina and cervix.Methods: The vaginal secretion and urine samples of the patients attending gynecology clinic, Imam Reza Hospital, Amol City, were checked by direct smear and cultured in TYI-S-33 culture media. | [
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Improved electrochemical performance of stannic oxide@C composites by regulating the charge transfer kinetics at the electrode/electrolyte interphase. Although the traditional graphite anode materials have stable cycle performance, it has low capacity which limits its energy density. Therefore, it is urgent to prepare new anode materials. During the past decades, the metal oxides are considered as the most promising anode materials due to their high specific capacity and energy density. However, the metal oxide anode suffers from poor cycling stability, which is caused by the unstable structure and poor electrode/electrolyte interphase. Herein, we design the stannic oxide@C composites via hydrothermal reaction method and used as anode materials for the lithium-ion batteries. Due to the improved charge transfer kinetics at the electrode/electrolyte interphase, the as-prepared stannic oxide@C composites show high specific capacity and stable cycling performance at the high current densities. | [
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Plasma colloid osmotic pressure in healthy infants. Conclusions The data accept the null hypothesis that the COP range in infants younger than I year old is similar to those observed in adult subjects. Our observations, compared with previously reported neonatal COP values, suggest that there is a sharp increase in COP within the first months after birth.Methods Plasma COP was measured in 37 male and female healthy infants from 1 to 11 months old. For this purpose, 1 ml blood was collected during the patient's regularly scheduled visit if the patient required any type of blood test for routine laboratory analyses.Background The plasma colloid osmotic pressure (COP) plays a major role in transcapillary fluid balance. There is no information on plasma COP of healthy infants beyond the first post-natal week, The normal COP in healthy adult subjects (25 mmHg) is currently also applied as a reference value for healthy infants. This study was designed to test whether plasma COP values in healthy infants are the same as those in normal adults.Results Plasma COP levels correlated slightly with increasing age from 1 to 9 months old (linear regression analysis; r(2)=0.1, P<0.049). We found no correlation between plasma COP and body weight at the same age (r(2)=0.05, P=0.155). The mean and standard deviation of COP in all infants was 25.1<plus/minus>2.6 mmHg, which is almost identical to an average COP of 25 mmHg in healthy adult subjects. Arbitrary division of the infants into three different age groups (1-3 months [n=11], 5-8 months [n=13] and 9-11 months [n=13]) showed an average increase of approximately 2 mmHg in COP of 9-month-old to 11-month-old infants, compared with 1-month-old to 3-month-old infants (one-way analysis of variance; P=0.26). There was no gender difference in the COP level (unpaired t-test), with an average of 25.1 +/-2.4 mmHg in 19 male infants compared with 25.2 +/-2.9 in 18 female infants. The 95% confidence interval for COP in both male and female infants (n=37) was between 24.3 to 26.0 mmHg, ranging from 19.5 to 30.3 mmHg, with a median value of 25.2 mmHg. | [
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Classification of Browning on Intact Table Grape Bunches Using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Coupled With Partial Least Squares-Discriminant Analysis and Artificial Neural Networks. Table grape browning is a complex physiological disorder that occurs during cold storage. There is a need to investigate novel and innovative ways to manage the problem that hampers the progressive and sustainable growth of table grape industries. Given the complex nature of the browning phenomenon, techniques such as near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy can be utilized for the non-destructive classification of different browning phenotypes. In this study, NIR coupled with partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and artificial neural networks (ANN) were used to classify bunches as either clear or as having chocolate browning and friction browning based on the spectra obtained from intact 'Regal Seedless' table grape bunches that were cold-stored over different periods. Friction browning appears as circular spots close to the pedicel area that are formed when table grape berries move against each other, and chocolate browning appears as discoloration, which originates mostly from the stylar-end of the berry, although the whole berry may appear brown in severe instances. The evaluation of the models constructed using PLS-DA was done using the classification error rate (CER), specificity, and sensitivity and for the models constructed using ANN, the kappa score was used. The CER for chocolate browning (25%) was better than that of friction browning (46%) for weeks 3 and 4 for both class 0 (absence of browning) and class 1 (presence of browning). Both the specificity and sensitivity of class 0 and class 1 for friction browning were not as good as that of chocolate browning. With ANN, the kappa score was tested to classify table grape bunches as clear or having chocolate browning or friction browning and showed that chocolate browning could be classified with a strong agreement during weeks 3 and 4 and weeks 5 and 6 and that friction browning could be classified with a moderate agreement during weeks 3 and 4. These results open up new possibilities for the development of quality checks of packed table grape bunches before export. This has a significant impact on the table grape industry for it will now be possible to evaluate bunches non-destructively during packaging to determine the possibility of these browning types being present when reaching the export market. | [
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FLASH radiotherapy with photon beams. Ultra-high-dose rate \\'FLASH\\' radiotherapy (FLASH-RT) has been shown to drastically reduce normal tissue toxicities while being as efficacious as conventional dose rate radiotherapy to treat tumors. A large number of preclinical studies describing this so-called FLASH effect have led to the clinical translation of FLASH-RT using ultra-high-dose rate electron and proton beams. Although the vast majority of radiation therapy treatments are delivered using X-rays, few preclinical data using ultra-high-dose rate X-ray irradiation have been published. This review focuses on different methods that can be used to generate ultra-high-dose rate X-rays and their beam characteristics along with their effect on the biological tissues and the perspectives for the development of FLASH-RT with X-rays. | [
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Chemical bond approach to optical properties of some flash evaporated Se100-XSbX chalcogenide alloys. Amorphous thin films of Se100-XSbX (X = 1, 5, 10, 15 and 20) were synthesized by flash evaporation of the premelt quenched bulk samples. The optical properties were investigated from spectrophotometric measurements in the UV-VIS-NIR spectral region using Swanepoel's standard envelope method and related techniques. The optical band gap energy (E-g(opt)) was evaluated from the Wemple-Didomenico (WDD) single oscillator model and Tauc's extrapolation method in the region where the absorption coefficient, alpha >= 10(4) cm(-1). The observed values of E-g(opt) and oscillator energy E-o were found to decrease monotonously with increasing Sb additive. The complex dielectric constant (epsilon), Urbach energy (E-u), optical conductivity (sigma), plasma frequency (omega(p)) and lattice dielectric constant (epsilon(L)) were deduced for each alloy composition. The complex refractive index (n) fitted well to Sellmeier function which can allow extrapolation of n outside the measured spectral range. The observed changes in optical parameters with Sb content were explained on the basis of increased defect states and changes in cohesive energy indicators (average heat of atomization (H-s), mean coordination number < Z > and average single bond energy (H-s/< Z >) | [
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Contribution of smoking to socioeconomic inequalities in mortality: a study of 14 European countries, 1990-2004. Background Smoking contributes to socioeconomic inequalities in mortality, but the extent to which this contribution has changed over time and driven widening or narrowing inequalities in total mortality remains unknown. We studied socioeconomic inequalities in smoking-attributable mortality and their contribution to inequalities in total mortality in 1990-1994 and 2000-2004 in 14 European countries.Methods We collected, harmonised and standardised population-wide data on all-cause and lung-cancer mortality by age, gender, educational and occupational level in 14 European populations in 1990-1994 and 2000-2004. Smoking-attributable mortality was indirectly estimated using the Preston-Glei-Wilmoth method.Results In 2000-2004, smoking-attributable mortality was higher in lower socioeconomic groups in all countries among men, and in all countries except Spain, Italy and Slovenia, among women, and the contribution of smoking to socioeconomic inequalities in mortality varied between 19% and 55% among men, and between -1% and 56% among women. Since 1990-1994, absolute inequalities in smoking-attributable mortality and the contribution of smoking to inequalities in total mortality have decreased in most countries among men, but increased among women.Conclusions In many European countries, smoking has become less important as a determinant of socioeconomic inequalities in mortality among men, but not among women. Inequalities in smoking remain one of the most important entry points for reducing inequalities in mortality. | [
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Reversible effects of antiepileptic drugs on thyroid hormones in men and women with epilepsy: A prospective randomized double-blind withdrawal study. Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) may affect serum thyroid hormone concentrations. This prospective, randomized study evaluated thyroid function in men and women with epilepsy both before and after double-blinded withdrawal of AED monotherapy, and assessed whether any changes were reversible. One hundred sixty patients were randomized to withdrawal and nonwithdrawal groups; 150 patients completed the intervention and were included in the 12-month study. Serum samples were obtained from 130 patients, from before and 4 months after intervention. Following AED withdrawal, significant increases in free thyroxine (FT(4)) serum concentrations were measured in men and women treated with carbamazepine. In women treated with valproate, serum concentrations of free triiodothyronine (FT(3)) decreased significantly in the withdrawal group. Thus, for both men and women with epilepsy, carbamazepine treatment reduces serum FT(4) concentrations, but valproate treatment of women with epilepsy increases serum FT3. Our study demonstrated that these changes can be reversed by treatment withdrawal, even after years of treatment. (c) 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. | [
2,
313
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Effect of Tantalum on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of M2 High-Speed Steel Prepared by Laser Additive Manufacturing. Herein, M2 high-speed steel (HSS) samples with different Ta contents are prepared on #45 steel substrates by a laser additive manufacturing process. The microstructure and mechanical properties of the samples are systematically studied under five different Ta contents. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses show that the microstructures of the samples comprise equiaxed crystals, cellular dendritic structures, and reticular eutectic carbides. The samples are mainly composed of supersaturated martensite, retained austenite, and MxCy-type carbides. The microstructures and mechanical properties of the samples are greatly affected by Ta alloying. After the M2 HSS is alloyed with 1 and 2 wt% Ta, obvious grain refinement occurs and the amount of retained austenite decreases; as a result of these microscale changes, the microhardness increases by 2.9% and 7.2%, the impact toughness increases by 12.4% and 17.4%, and the wear resistance increases by 75.74% and 25%. | [
1,
197
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Analytical utility of valence band X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy of iron and its oxides, with spectral interpretation by cluster and band structure calculations. The valence band and core-level X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) of iron and its oxides are reported, and the valence band spectra interpreted by various calculation models. The paper focuses upon the valence band region, which shows significant differences between the metal and the following oxidized iron species: FeO, Fe3O4, alpha-Fe2O3, gamma-Fe2O3, alpha-FeOOH and gamma-FeOOH. The core region is of little analytical value as a means of distinguishing between these species, but the valence band region shows significant differences. These differences are consistent with spectra predicted by cluster and band structure calculations. Cluster calculations are valuable as a means for interpreting the spectra of iron oxides with multiple iron sites and defect characteristics. | [
1,
70
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Outcome of Stromal Vascular Fraction-Enriched Fat Grafting Compared to Intramuscular Transposition in Painful End-Neuromas of Superficial Radial Nerve: Preliminary Results. Introduction: The management of painful end-neuromas of the superficial branch of the radial nerve (SBRN) remains challenging due to high levels of pain relapse. The novel technique of stromal vascular fraction (SVF)-enriched fat grafting showed continuous pain relief, although failed to prove statistically significant. Besides acting as a mechanical barrier, SVF-enriched fat grafting might also affect the cellular level. The aim of this study was to compare clinical outcomes of SVF to the widely popular intramuscular transposition technique.Conclusion: Both SVF-enriched fat grafting and intramuscular transposition failed to prove statistical significant pain reduction in treating symptomatic neuromas of peripheral nerves.Results: In the transposition group, sustained pain reduction was not observed after an initial significant reduction 2 months' post-surgery, resulting in pain relapse at 36 months and comparable to the preoperative assessment. In the graft group, some degree of pain reduction was observed at 2 months after the surgery and proved to be constant in the long-term outcome, although not statistically significant compared to preoperative levels.Patients and methods: In this cohort study, 10 consecutive patients treated for painful end-neuromas of the SBRN between 2010 and 2013 were analyzed retrospectively. Microsurgical resection of end-neuromas was performed in all patients. Five patients were treated with subsequent intramuscular transposition into the brachioradialis muscle and five patients received SVF-enriched fat grafting. Five different pain modalities and various predictors were compared pre- and up to 36 months post-operatively. | [
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199
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Material selections in asphalt pavement for wet-freeze climate zones: A review. The objectives of this review paper are to document current practices in wet-freeze climate zones and introduce emerging technologies that would be largely implemented in wet-freeze climate zones in the near future. A current practice is defined as a procedure that has been shown by research or experience to produce acceptable results and that is established or proposed as a standard suitable for widespread adaptation. An emerging technology is defined as a technique or a material that can improve the asphalt pavement performance, partly replace general materials, and contribute to more sustainable asphalt pavements. This review identified the criteria used to determine locations in the United States and two Canadian provinces with a similar wet-freeze climate. In addition, asphalt binders, asphalt additives/modifiers, asphalt mixture types, reclaimed asphalt mixtures, asphalt mixture test methods, asphalt mixture design methods, and deicers were reviewed. This review concluded with some recommendations in terms of using environmentally friendly materials and selecting cracking and rutting failure criteria to design asphalt mixtures with enhanced performance in wet-freeze climates. (C) 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. | [
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Biotic interactions as a structuring force in soil communities: evidence from the micro-arthropods of an Antarctic moss model system. Current meta-community theories postulate that the structure of local communities depends on dispersal, environmental filtering, and biotic interactions. However, disentangling the relative effects of these factors in the field and for diverse assemblages is a major challenge. A solution is to address natural but simple communities (i.e. with low numbers of species in few trophic levels), wherein one of these factors is predominant. Here, we analyse the micro-arthropod community of a moss-turf habitat typical of the Antarctic Peninsula region, and test the widely accepted hypothesis that this system is abiotically driven. In the austral summers 2006/7 and 2007/8, we sampled nearly 80 units of moss from four islands in the Argentine Islands. Using variance partitioning, we quantified the relative contribution of: (1) multiple scale spatio-temporal autocorrelation; (2) environmental effects; (3) the island effect. Little variance (1 %) was accounted for by sources 1 (1 %, significant) and 2 (< 1 %, not significant). The island effect significantly accounted for the largest amount of variation (8 %). There was a relatively large effect of spatially structured environmental variation (7 %). Null models demonstrated that species co-occurred less frequently than expected by chance, suggesting the prevalence of negative interactions. Our data support the novel hypothesis that negative biotic interactions are the most important structuring force of this micro-arthropod community. The analysed system is a good proxy for more complex communities in terms of taxonomic composition and the functional groups present. Thus, biotic interaction might be a predominant factor in soil meta-community dynamics. | [
5,
42
] |
The involvement of cytokine-like 1 (Cytl1) in chondrogenesis and cartilage metabolism. The Cytokine-like 1 (Cytl1) is first identified in bone marrow cells and preferentially expressed in cartilaginous tissue, and showed chondrogenic effects in mesenchymal cells, not essential for cartilage or bone development as in Cytl1 knock-out mice but associated with cartilage inflammatory and destruction. Here, we show the involvement of Cytl1 in chondrogenesis. Using specified chondrogenic embryonic skeleton and adult cartilage, the Cytl1 gene expression was investigated with associated chondrogenic factors by quantitative RT-PCR. The effect of Cytl1 protein (rCytl1) on cultured chondrocytes to regulate expression of key factors and phenotypic markers was studied. The results revealed that Cytl1 was highly expressed in chondrogenic process in embryos and adult cartilage. The rCytl1 increased the expression of Sox9 and Col2 alpha 1 with stabilized Col1 alpha 1 in cultured chondrocytes (redifferentiation). The Cytl1 was expressed and involved at all stages of cartilage development. Furthermore, Cytl1 expression shared similar patterns as other chondrogenic factors, implying interactions with other factors in chondrogenic process. Cytl1 is involved in cartilage development and matrix homeostasis, which defines the dedifferentiation phenotype of chondrocytes, essential to forming of functional cartilage in both physiologic remodeling and pathologic regeneration. (C) 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. | [
2,
297
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Cataloguing, Characterization, Valuation and Management of the Palaeontological Heritage: a Perspective from Majorca (Spain). The palaeontological heritage of Majorca is subject to constant threats that could lead to its progressive disappearance. A methodological proposal is presented in order to facilitate its conservation and management, which consists of defining, cataloguing, characterizing and evaluating the palaeontological heritage, in the most objective and justified way possible, based on a clear definition of the heritage studied (sites of paleontological interest); an exhaustive and methodical process of cataloguing, using predetermined criteria; a clear and concise characterization appropriate to the elements studied (stratigraphy, faunal singularity, extension, thickness, conservation, etc.); and an evaluation with predetermined and justified criteria, based on the cataloguing and characterization carried out. Palaeontological sites, often the most significant, useful or vulnerable sites, are thus selected, and strategies for management and conservation (protection, surveillance, cleaning, study, centres of interpretation, etc.) proposed that are appropriate for each site. The proposed methodology is intended to be scientific and extrapolable to other studies and heritage elements. | [
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Sorafenib exerts an anti-keloid activity by antagonizing TGF-beta/Smad and MAPK/ERK signaling pathways. Keloid disease is characterized by hyperproliferation of responsive fibroblasts with vigorously continuous synthesis of extracellular matrix (ECM) components. Although the process by which keloids develop is poorly understood, most theories of the etiology are referred to fibroblast dysfunction. A central event in dermal repair is the release of growth factors in response to skin injury, which leads to the dysregulation of several crucial pathways that initiate the activation of keloid fibroblasts (KFs) and promote ECM accumulation. Hence, strategies aimed at reducing the production of these cytokines and/or disrupting their intracellular signal transduction have potential clinical significance for curing keloid. As the first oral multikinase inhibitor, sorafenib blocks a number of intracellular signaling pathways which are also pivotal for keloid pathogenesis. Therefore, evaluation of the effects of sorafenib on keloid disease seems timely and pertinent. In this study, we reported the identification of sorafenib that antagonized TGF-beta/Smad and MAPK/ERK signaling pathways in primary KFs. Impressively, treatment with sorafenib inhibited KF cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, and simultaneously reduced collagen production in KFs. Furthermore, we present ex vivo evidence that sorafenib induced the arrest of KF migration, the inhibition of angiogenesis, and the reduction of collagen accumulation. These preclinical observations suggest that sorafenib deserves systematic exploration as a candidate agent for the future treatment of keloids.Sorafenib reduces KF migration and concomitantly angiogenesis in keloid explants.Sorafenib inhibits the proliferation, migration, invasion, and ECM deposition in keloid fibroblasts.The intracellular TGF-beta/Smad and MAPK/ERK signaling pathways is blocked by sorafenib.Sorafenib is a promising agent for the treatment of keloids and hypertrophic scars. | [
2,
105
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Lyapunov Coefficients for Hopf Bifurcations in Systems with Piecewise Smooth Nonlinlearity. Motivated by models that arise in controlled ship maneuvering, we analyze Hopf bifurcations in systems with piecewise smooth nonlinear part. In particular, we derive explicit formulas for the generalization of the first Lyapunov coefficient to this setting. This generically determines the direction of branching (super- versus subcriticality), but in general this differs from any fixed smoothening of the vector field. We focus on nonsmooth nonlinearities of the form u(i)vertical bar u(j)vertical bar, but our results are formulated in broader generality for systems in any dimension with piecewise smooth nonlinear part. In addition, we discuss some codimension-one degeneracies and apply the results to a model of a shimmying wheel. | [
4,
89
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Anti-Angiogenic Effect of Triptolide in Rheumatoid Arthritis by Targeting Angiogenic Cascade. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by a pre-vascular seriously inflammatory phase, followed by a vascular phase with high increase in vessel growth. Since angiogenesis has been considered as an essential event in perpetuating inflammatory and immune responses, as well as supporting pannus growth and development of RA, inhibition of angiogenesis has been proposed as a novel therapeutic strategy for RA. Triptolide, a diterpenoid triepoxide from Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F, has been extensively used in treatment of RA patients. It also acts as a small molecule inhibitor of tumor angiogenesis in several cancer types. However, it is unclear whether triptolide possesses an anti-angiogenic effect in RA. To address this problem, we constructed collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) model using DA rats by the injection of bovine type II collagen. Then, CIA rats were treated with triptolide (11-45 mu g/kg/day) starting on the day 1 after first immunization. The arthritis scores (P<0.05) and the arthritis incidence (P<0.05) of inflamed joints were both significantly decreased in triptolide-treated CIA rats compared to vehicle CIA rats. More interestingly, doses of 11 similar to 45 mu g/kg triptolide could markedly reduce the capillaries, small, medium and large vessel density in synovial membrane tissues of inflamed joints (all P<0.05). Moreover, triptolide inhibited matrigel-induced cell adhesion of HFLS-RA and HUVEC. It also disrupted tube formation of HUVEC on matrigel and suppressed the VEGF-induced chemotactic migration of HFLS-RA and HUVEC, respectively. Furthermore, triptolide significantly reduced the expression of angiogenic activators including TNF-alpha, IL-17, VEGF, VEGFR, Ang-1, Ang-2 and Tie2, as well as suppressed the IL1-beta-induced phosphorylated of ERK, p38 and JNK at protein levels. In conclusion, our data suggest for the first time that triptolide may possess anti-angiogenic effect in RA both in vivo and in vitro assay systems by downregulating the angiogenic activators and inhibiting the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase downstream signal pathway. | [
2,
136
] |
The Justice Imperative in Scripture. The Hebrew Bible and New Testament reveal an abiding concern for the poor, including the creation of a just society. Economic stratification in the ancient world and the tendency for those in difficult circumstances to receive unfair treatment lead to a passionate defense of justice, which in many passages requires equitable treatment of all persons. This essay probes key biblical texts on such matters as interest, bribery, outreach to the poor, and the question of an afterlife to underscore a justice imperative. Despite arguments to the contrary, social justice and economic fairness are core themes in Scripture. | [
0,
17
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THEORY OF 2ND-HARMONIC GENERATION OF MOLECULAR-SYSTEMS - THE STEADY-STATE CASE. In this paper, a general formalism for treating both steady-state and time-resolved second-harmonic generation for molecular systems is presented. Here, only the steady-state case will be reported. The adiabatic approximation is introduced. Four important cases, resonance-resonance, resonance-off-resonance, off-resonance-resonance, and off-resonance-off-resonance transitions, have been considered. Finally, numerical calculations of rhodamine 6G are performed to demonstrate the applications of theoretical results. | [
1,
142
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Effective Desiliconization Method with Swirling Flow of Hot Metal at Blast Furnace Casthouse. 3. Hot metal samples were also taken from the torpedo car, and desiliconization behavior in a transient basin part of the torpedo car was evaluated. Calculated silicon content in the basin part was lower with swirling condition.2. Hot metal samples taken at the exit of the tilting runner showed that change in silicon content of hot metal in the tilting runner was larger with swirling condition.1. Amount of silicon removed from the hot metal through the entire desiliconization operation was larger under the swirling flow condition of hot metal compared with conventional non-swirling one.Hot metal desiliconization is carried out by adding iron oxide at a tilting runner in a blast furnace cast house to improve BOF operation. Aiming at effective silicon removal by enhancing mixing of desiliconizing agent and hot metal, desiliconization experiments at an actual blast furnace casthouse was performed with the tilting runner that was specially designed to generate swirling flow of hot metal.4. A reaction analysis was made assuming that present system is a semi-batch reactor. Reaction rate constant of desiliconization through the swirling part of the tilting runner and the basin part of the torpedo car was 2.2 times higher with swirling condition. This result qualitatively agrees with the results of previous 5 ton hot metal experiments and reflects enhanced mixing of desiliconizing agent and hot metal by swirling flow in an industrial-scale operation. | [
9,
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Monte Carlo simulations of monatomic steps dynamics on Si(100)-(2x1). By means of Monte Carlo simulations the frozen pattern of a B-type step edge in the Si(100)-(2 x 1) surface is simulated. Sets of two dimers are attached and detached from the step according to the number of nearest and next-nearest neighbors. Average kink length, average kink separation and correlation length from experiments and modeling are presented in order to check the quality of our results. Experimental results are well reproduced by using measured experimental rates. The characteristics of the resulting step profile are also analyzed as a function of the step width. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science B.V. | [
6,
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Diffusion in polymers with varying accessibility. The paper considers the problem of describing quantitatively the process of diffusion in polymers attended with plastication of their amorphous phase. A consequence of such plastication is that the volume accessible for the penetrant molecules continuously increases in the course of their sorption, Assuming that the rate of relaxation processes is far greater than that of diffusion, an equation has been generated to describe the sorption in a matrix with varying accessibility. Numerical solution of this equation using the experimental data for a polyamide - water system demonstrates that sorption in the matrix with increasing accessibility is slower than sorption in a hypothetical matrix with constant accessibility equal to the portion of the amorphous phase; meanwhile, the concentration of the penetrant in the former case proves higher in any point of the polymer specimen. The results obtained are important for calculating the rate constants for chemical reactions that in a polymer matrix proceed in the diffusion-kinetic mode. | [
1,
171
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Gene expression profiles of phaeochromocytomas with ERBB2 overexpression reveal a new molecular mechanism tumourigenicity. Objective Phaeochromocytomas (PHEO) and functional paragangliomas (PGLs) are catecholamine-secreting neuroendocrine tumours. Although most PHEO/PGLs are benign, 10-35% present as (or develop into) malignant tumours with a poor prognosis. Overexpression of ERBB2 (v-erb-b2 erythroblastic leukaemia viral oncogene homologue 2) has been reported to be associated with malignant PHEO. We used gene expression profiling of PHEO/PGLs to gain a better understanding of the tumourigenic pathways associated with ERBB2. Methods We used the Affymetrix Gene Chip U133 Plus 2.0 genome-wide gene expression cDNA microarray of 18 PHEO/PGLs (12 benign and six malignant, divided into two groups depending on ERBB2 expression levels) to analyse the gene expression patterns. Results Unsupervised hierarchical cluster analysis of transcription profiles of 18 samples identified two dominant expression clusters corresponding to samples belonging to the ERBB2+ and ERBB2- groups. According to the gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) databases, the differentially expressed genes were classified into diverse functional categories and signalling pathways. In particular, the focal adhesion signalling pathway showed significant differences between the groups; specifically, the FAK-Src-MAPK pathway was prominently activated in the ERBB2+ group. Conclusions In summary, ERBB2+ PHEO/PGLs have a distinct expression pattern compared with the ERBB2- group. The focal adhesion signalling pathway may participate in ERBB2-induced tumourigenesis in PHEO/PGLs. | [
2,
13
] |
A thermal analysis investigation of the hydriding properties of nanocrystalline Mg-Ni based alloys prepared by high energy ball milling. A thermal analysis study of the hydrogen loading characteristics of nanocrystalline Mg-Ni alloys (Ni content ranging from 0.1 at% to 10 at%) has been carried out in 3 MPa hydrogen, employing the techniques of differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The measurements confirmed the nonequilibrium state of the samples as prepared by the mechanical alloying technique. An enthalpy associated with the stabilisation of the alloys on first heating in hydrogen was found for all the samples studied. The magnitude of this enthalpy increased with the nickel content of the alloy. All the samples showed rapid uptake of hydrogen at 3 MPa pressure, indicating that the nickel was thus playing a very active role at the ahoy surface in dissociating hydrogen and so enabling more rapid hydride formation by the alloy. This catalytic activity of the nickel decreased with temperature cycling over the range 80 degrees C to 500 degrees C. Although TGA analysis, carried out at the end of the cycling period, gave the hydrogen content as 1.1 wt% to 1.7 wt% for the alloys, this is well short of the theoretical amounts expected (7.6 wt% for MgH2), indicating that the samples had become deactivated during cycling. No evidence was found of the intermetallic Mg,Ni prior to or after hydriding. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved. | [
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Loss of image quality in photobleaching during microscopic imaging of fluorescent probes bound to chromatin. Prolonged excitation of fluorescent probes leads eventually to loss of their capacity to emit light. A decrease in the number of detected photons reduces subsequently the resolving power of a fluorescence microscope. Adverse effects of fluorescence intensity loss on the quality of microscopic images of biological specimens have been recognized, but not determined quantitatively. We propose three human-independent methods of quality determination. These techniques require no reference images and are based on calculation of the actual resolution distance, information entropy, and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). We apply the three measures to study the effect of photobleaching in cell nuclei stained with propidium iodide (PI) and chromomycin A3 (CA(3)) and imaged with fluorescence confocal microscopy. We conclude that the relative loss of image quality is smaller than the corresponding decrease in fluorescence intensity. Furthermore, the extent of quality loss is related to the optical properties of the imaging system and the noise characteristics of the detector. We discuss the importance of these findings for optimal registration and compression of biological images. (C) 2005 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers. | [
1,
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Cr(VI) adsorption from aqueous solution by fungal bioremediation based using Rhizopus sp.. The highly toxic species of Chromium in its hexavalent state is an important hazard to the flora and fauna, causing a rupture in balance especially in aquatic environments. The removal of Cr(VI) ions from aqueous solutions using fungal biomass of Rhizopus sp. was investigated under batch experiments. The biomass was produced and treated with NaCl to compare pre-treated and untreated biosorbents capacity. Adsorption of Cr(VI) was investigated with a 2(3) experimental design to determine the best operational parameters including pH [2.0-4.0], temperature [20-40 degrees C] and agitation [50-150 rpm]. Maximum Cr(VI) uptake (99%) indicated that pH 2.0 is the optimal for Cr(VI) removal. Linear and non-linear kinetic models were evaluated. The best fitting for linear kinetics was the pseudo-second order linear equation and the Elovich model in its non-linear form, suggesting chemisorption as the controlling step of adsorption. Results followed Langmuir isotherm equation, the q(m) was 9.95 (mg.g(-1)) for Rhizopus sp. + NaCl. Thermodynamic parameters were calculated using the adsorption equilibrium constant obtained from Langmuir isotherm and indicated that the adsorption process was spontaneous and endothermic. The surface characteristics of the biomass were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra; the analysis showed the involvement of amino groups in the bonding with Cr(VI). SEM and EDX analysis confirmed the presence of Cr in the biomass after adsorption. The results of these experiments may be utilized for modeling, simulation, and scale-up processes in the future. | [
1,
331
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Combination of time-reversal focusing and nulling for detection of small targets in strong reverberation environments. Time reversal has attracted considerable research interest because of its potential for signal enhancement. In the past, target focusing and reverberation nulling are separately investigated as two complementary aspects of time-reversal processing. In essence, nulling is regarded as one kind of focusing with minimising the energy incident on a location. When time-reversal operation is regarded as inversed beamforming, it is available to simultaneously realise time-reversal focusing and nulling under an optimum beamforming framework. The feasibility of the combination processing is evaluated in detection of a small target in the presence of strong reverberation. The acoustic energy focused on a target of interest is maintained constant while reverberation is regarded as an interference to be suppressed by the nulling technique. The experimental results have verified the effectiveness of optimum time-reversal processing for active target detection in a shallow water environment. | [
7,
277
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Phase II Open-Label Study to Assess Efficacy and Safety of Lenalidomide in Combination with Cetuximab in KRAS-Mutant Metastatic Colorectal Cancer. This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of combination treatment with lenalidomide and cetuximab in KRAS-mutant metastatic colorectal cancer patients. This was a phase II multicenter, open-label trial comprising a safety lead-in phase (phase IIa) to determine the maximum tolerated dose, and a randomized proof of concept phase (phase IIb) to determine the response rate of lenalidomide plus cetuximab combination therapy. Phase IIa treatment comprised oral lenalidomide (starting dose 25 mg/day) and intravenous cetuximab (400 mg/m(2) followed by weekly 250 mg/m(2)) in 28-day cycles. In phase IIb patients were randomized to either the phase IIa treatment schedule of lenalidomide plus cetuximab combination therapy or lenalidomide 25 mg/day monotherapy. Eight patients were enrolled into phase IIa. One patient developed a dose-limiting toxicity and the maximum tolerated dose of lenalidomide was determined at 25 mg/day. Forty-three patients were enrolled into phase IIb proof of concept. Best response was stable disease in 9 patients and study enrollment was terminated prematurely due to lack of efficacy in both treatment arms and failure to achieve the planned response objective. The majority of adverse events were grade 1 and 2. In both phases, the adverse events most commonly attributed to any study drugs were fatigue, rash and other skin disorders, diarrhea, nausea, and stomatitis. Thirty-nine deaths occurred; none was related to study drug. The combination of lenalidomide and cetuximab appeared to be well tolerated but did not have clinically meaningful activity in KRAS-mutant metastatic colorectal cancer patients. | [
2,
154
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Data movement optimisation in point-free form. Programs written in point-free form express computation purely in terms of functions. Such programs are especially amenable to local transformation. In this paper, we describe a process for optimising the transport of data through point-free programs. This process systematically applies local transformations to. achieve effective global optimisation. We describe the strategies we employ to ensure this process is tractable. This process has been implemented as an intermediate stage of a compiler. The optimiser is shown to be highly effective, producing code of comparable efficiency to hand-written code. | [
8,
288
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Formation of a nano-pattering NiTi surface with Ni-depleted superficial layer to promote corrosion resistance and endothelial cell-material interaction. Zirconium ion implantation was performed on NiTi alloy to suppress Ni ion release as well as to improve corrosion resistance and cell-material interaction. A thicker Ni-depleted nano-scale composite layer formed after Zr implantation and the corrosion resistance was evidently increased in aspects of increased E (br) - E (corr) (difference between corrosion potential and breakdown potential) and decreased corrosion current density. 2.5/2 NiTi sample possessed the highest E (br) - E (corr), more than 500 mV higher than that of untreated NiTi, suggesting a significant improvement on pitting corrosion resistance. Ni ion release rate of Zr-NiTi was decreased due to the depletion of Ni in the superficial surface layer and the diffusion resistance effect of the ZrO2/TiO2 nano-film. Increased surface wettability induced by increased surface roughness was obtained after Zr implantation. Zr-NiTi samples were found to be favorable to endothelial cells (ECs) proliferation, especially after 5 and 7 days culture. | [
9,
279
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Isonemal prefabrics with only parallel axes of symmetry. Isonemal weaving designs, introduced into mathematical literature by Grunbaum and Shephard, were classified into thirty-nine infinite sets, and a small number of exceptions by Richard Roth. This paper refines Roth's taxonomy for the first ten of these families in order to solve three problems: which designs exist in various sizes, which prefabrics can be doubled and remain isonemal, and which can be halved and remain isonemal. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved. | [
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Afamelanotide for the treatment of erythropoietic protoporphyria. Areas covered: In two Phase II and two Phase III trials in Europe, Australia and the US afamelanotide significantly reduced EPP-related phototoxic pain when tested in > 250 patients. To date, safety including compassionate use programs for up to 6 years appears to be excellent, including only nausea and flushing for a brief time after administration. No immunogenicity was observed. Approval for EPP treatment is pending at the European Medicines Agency.Expert opinion: The authors assume that afamelanotide, being the first effective treatment of EPP, will be a broadly applied treatment of EPP in Europe, North America, Australia and likely also in other countries such as Japan, South Africa and South America within 5 years.Introduction: Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is characterized by incapacitating pain in the sunlight-exposed skin areas due to accumulation of the metabolite protoporphyrin. Until now, no effective prevention of phototoxicity has been available. Afamelanotide, an alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) analogue and first-in-class drug, induces melanin formation. The skin tan diminishes activation of protoporphyrin by reducing the sunlight penetration into the dermis. For continuous photoprotection, afamelanotide is applied every second month as a 16-mg controlled release implant. | [
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79
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Efficient blue light emitting materials based on m-carborane-anthracene dyads. Structure, photophysics and bioimaging studies. Efficient monosubstitution of the non-iodinated, mono-iodinated and di-iodinated m-carborane cluster at one C-cluster has led to the preparation of three single organic molecule-carborane dyads (4-6), which exhibited exceptional fluorescence properties with quantum yield values of 100% in solution, for all of them, with maxima around 415 nm, which correspond to the locally excited state (LE) emission. These results suggest that simply linking the m-carborane fragment to one anthracene unit through a CH2 spacer produces a significant enhancement of the fluorescence in the final fluorophore, probably due to the free rotation of the anthracene linked to the C-cluster. Besides, the presence of one or two iodine atoms linked to boron atoms does not cause any influence on the photophysical properties of the dyads, as it is confirmed by TD-DFT calculations. Notably, the three conjugates show good fluorescence efficiency in the aggregate state with quantum yields in the range of 19-23%, which could be ascribed to the presence of CH2, particularly for 4, and the iodine atoms in 5 and 6, which prevent pi-pi stacking. All these results indicate that our dyads are extremely good emitters in solution while maintaining the emission properties in the aggregate state. Crystal packing, fingerprint plot analysis, and TD-DFT calculations for the three compounds support these results. Confocal microscopy studies show that 6 is the best-internalized compound by HeLa cells via endocytosis, although 4 and 5 also presented a high fluorescence intensity emission. Moreover, due to the blue emission, this compound is an excellent candidate to be applied as a fluorescent dye in bioimaging studies. | [
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Family engagement and conflict about teaching for social justice. Amidst the increased demand for social justice throughout the United States, Carolyn Stoughton, a teacher in a midwestern school district, developed and taught curriculum on gender stereotypes and racial injustice to 2nd-grade students. She received messages from families suggesting her curriculum was inappropriate, pushing an agenda, and indoctrinating children. Navigating the politicized terrain of teaching for social justice is complex, uncertain, and requires a commitment to equity and a just society. Carolyn, with her former student-teaching supervisors Megan Lynch and May Lee, reflects on how she engaged with unanticipated responses from families, the impact it had on her, and implications for learning how to communicate with families. | [
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216
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Estimation of the solubility limit of Cr in Fe at 300 degrees C from small-angle neutron scattering in neutron-irradiated Fe-Cr alloys. The solubility limit of Cr in Fe (alpha-Fe-Cr) at low temperatures is a matter of debate. We report a direct estimation of the solubility limit at 300 degrees C from small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) data obtained for neutron-irradiated Fe-Cr alloys. The SANS results indicate that the equilibrium concentration of alpha' was reached via irradiation-enhanced diffusion. The solubility limit was estimated using an iterative approach based on the SANS invariant and the lever rule of phase equilibrium. (C) 2009 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. | [
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Toward semantic annotation of Web page's segmentation blocks. The traditional search engines like Google, Yahoo, Altavista, etc. which gained a huge success during the last decade, were initially designed in order to easily locate and retrieve any information available on the Web. The computer engineers did not considered at that moment, the possibility that information meaning to be understood by the machines. Due to the huge amount of information currently available on the Web, the automatic intelligent retrieval of information becomes a tedious task: the user shall understand, combine, interpret, select and evaluate this information.In most cases, a Web page contains multiple semantic topics and a natural approach would be not to consider it as an atomic element. It is more natural to reason and operate with the semantic blocks in which a Web page can be decomposed, each block corresponding to a different topics, as the smallest units of information. | [
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144
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Deep tissue massage: What are we talking about?. Conclusions: Future research of deep tissue massage should be based on a common definition, classification system and the use of common comparators as controls. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.Background: Massage is a common treatment in complementary and integrative medicine. Deep tissue massage, a form of therapeutic massage, has become more and more popular in recent years. Hence, the use of massage generally and deep tissue massage specifically, should be evaluated as any other modality of therapy to establish its efficacy and safety.Results: There is no commonly accepted definition of deep tissue massage in the literature. The definition most frequently used is the intention of the therapist. We suggest separating the definitions of deep massage and deep tissue massage as follows: deep massage should be used to describe the intention of the therapist to treat deep tissue by using any form of massage and deep tissue massage should be used to describe a specific and independent method of massage therapy, utilizing the specific set of principles and techniques as defined by Riggs: \\'The understanding of the layers of the body, and the ability to work with tissue in these layers to relax, lengthen, and release holding patterns in the most effective and energy efficient way possible within the client's parameters of comfort\\'. Heterogeneity of techniques and protocols used in published studies have made it difficult to draw any clear conclusions. Favorable outcomes may result from deep tissue massage in pain populations and patients with decreased range of motion. In addition, several rare serious adverse events were found related to deep tissue massage, probably as a result of the forceful application of massage therapy.Methods: Narrative review.Aim: To determine the definitions used for deep tissue massage in the scientific literature and to review the current scientific evidence for its efficacy and safety. | [
2,
65
] |
Rapid Detection and Molecular Differentiation of Toxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae and Corynebacterium ulcerans Strains by LightCycler PCR. The systemic symptoms of diphtheria are caused by the tox-encoded diphtheria toxin (DT) which is produced by toxigenic Corynebacterium spp. Besides the classical agent C. diphtheriae, the zoonotic pathogen C. ulcerans has increasingly been reported as an emerging pathogen for diphtheria. The reliable detection of toxigenic Corynebacterium spp. is of substantial importance for both diphtheria surveillance in the public health sector and the clinical workup of a patient with diphtherialike symptoms. Since the respective tox genes of C. diphtheriae and C. ulcerans differ from each other in both DNA and amino acid sequence, both tox genes should be covered by novel real-time PCR methods. We describe the development and validation of a LightCycler PCR assay which reliably recognizes tox genes from both C. diphtheriae and C. ulcerans and differentiates the respective target genes by fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) hybridization probe melting curve analysis. | [
2,
38
] |
Prenylated flavonol glycosides from Epimedium grandiflorum: Cytotoxicity and evaluation against inflammation and metabolic disorder. Two new prenylated flavonol glycosides, epimedigrandiosides A and B (1 and 2), and 28 previously known compounds including prenylated flavonol derivatives, flavonol glycoside, megastigmanes, phenyl alkanoids, sesquiterpenoid glycoside, lignan, and hexene glucoside were isolated from the methanol extract of Epimedium grandiflorum. Structure elucidation was achieved by means of spectroscopic and spectrometric techniques including 1D and 2D NMR and HRESIMS. The absolute configuration of sugars was determined by chemical methods Structure elucidation of 3\\''-carbonyl-2\\'-beta-L-quinovosyl icariin (19) was not previously described, so its H-1 and C-13 NMR data were reported for the first time. The methanol extract and the isolated compounds were evaluated for their activity towards several targets related to inflammation and metabolic disorder including NF-kappa B, iNOS, PPAR alpha and PPAR gamma. Moreover, their cytotoxic activity against four cancer cell lines (SK-MEL, KB, BT-549, SK-OV-3) and two noncancerous kidney cell lines (LLC-PK1 and Vero) were also evaluated. | [
2,
48
] |
THE APPARENT INCIDENCE OF HIP FRACTURE IN EUROPE - A STUDY OF NATIONAL REGISTER SOURCES. The objective of this study was to examine the apparent incidence of hip fracture from discharge rates in European countries. A request was sent to the Ministries of Health in all European countries, asking for the number of hip fracture patients by age and sex, between the years 1983 and 1985. Seventeen countries responded. As expected, hip fracture was most frequently found amongst the elderly, particularly women. The incidence of hip fracture rose exponentially with age in both sexes. It was higher in women than men and there was a three-fold range between countries in the female to male sex ratio. There was an eleven-fold range in apparent incidence amongst women and a seven-fold range amongst men between the various countries. The highest incidence was found in the northern part of Europe and the lowest in the Mediterranean area. There was a significant positive correlation between the age-standardized incidence rates reported in men from each country and that in women. There was a larger difference in incidence between countries than between sexes, which suggests important genetic or environmental factors in the causation of hip fracture. The extent to which this reflects imperfect capture of data is uncertain but will be important to determine in order to identify reasons for differences and to enable confident projections of the future magnitude of this disorder. | [
2,
48
] |
Altered colorectal afferent function associated with TNBS-induced visceral hypersensitivity in mice. Feng B, La JH, Tanaka T, Schwartz ES, McMurray TP, Gebhart GF. Altered colorectal afferent function associated with TNBS-induced visceral hypersensitivity in mice. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 303: G817-G824, 2012. First published August 1, 2012; doi:10.1152/ajpgi.00257.2012.-Inflammation of the distal bowel is often associated with abdominal pain and hypersensitivity, but whether and which colorectal afferents contribute to the hypersensitivity is unknown. Using a mouse model of 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced colitis, we investigated colorectal hypersensitivity following intracolonic TNBS and associated changes in colorectum and afferent functions. C57BL/6 mice were treated intracolonically with TNBS or saline. Visceromotor responses to colorectal distension (15-60 mmHg) were recorded over 8 wk in TNBS- and saline-treated (control) mice. In other mice treated with TNBS or saline, colorectal inflammation was assessed by myeloperoxidase assay and immunohistological staining. In vitro single-fiber recordings were conducted on both TNBS and saline-treated mice to assess colorectal afferent function. Mice exhibited significant colorectal hypersensitivity through day 14 after TNBS treatment that resolved by day 28 with no resensitization through day 56. TNBS induced a neutrophil-and macrophage-based colorectal inflammation as well as loss of nerve fibers, all of which resolved by days 14-28. Single-fiber recordings revealed a net increase in afferent drive from stretch-sensitive colorectal afferents at day 14 post-TNBS and reduced proportions of mechanically insensitive afferents (MIAs) at days 14-28. Intracolonic TNBS-induced colorectal inflammation was associated with the development and recovery of hypersensitivity in mice, which correlated with a transient increase and recovery of sensitization of stretch-sensitive colorectal afferents and MIAs. These results indicate that the development and maintenance of colorectal hypersensitivity following inflammation are mediated by peripheral drive from stretch-sensitive colorectal afferents and a potential contribution from MIAs. | [
2,
114
] |
Social Work Intervention in Times of COVID-19. A Commitment to Academic Social Projection from the Syndemic Approach. This article presents partial results from the systematization of the hotline \\'Linea de Atencion y Acompanamiento Social: Unicolmayor Te Escucha\\', from the Social Work program. It is highlighted the teamwork, collective creation of knowledge, the commitment to intervention from the academic social projection epistemologically based to understand and overcome the traditional horizons of meaning. It is about an intervention mediated through virtuality and within the framework of academic practices, without losing the political-ethical sense, and with the novelty of understanding the academic social projection from the syndemic perspective that reveals the relationship between biological, economic. and social matters. | [
2,
322
] |
The General Education Act and the Pedagogy. Recovering and sign. This paper undertakes a historical overview of the pedagogical considerations and references that characterize the basic educational reform in Spain in 1970. To do so, the text offers a description and interpretation of technical, political and legal documentation. Additionally, it clarifies the contexts, orientations, innovations and shortcomings of the legislation, known as the Villar Palasi law. Basically, the author attempts to demonstrate the characteristics of the scientific rationality or technical model of the law and its reform. The article also addresses the lack of agreement between the pedagogy being defended, the social and cultural context, and the specific policies that needed to be introduced in order for the reform to achieve its objectives. And finally, this work tries to clarify the significance of this General Education Act in the educational history of Spain. | [
0,
10
] |
Large amplitude oscillatory shear of the Giesekus model. An asymptotic solution to the Giesekus constitutive model of polymeric fluids under homogenous, oscillatory simple shear flow at large Weissenberg number, Wi >> 1, and large strain amplitude, Wi/De >> 1, is constructed. Here, Wi = lambda*gamma(0)*, where lambda* is the polymer relaxation time and yo is the shear rate amplitude, and De = co* is a Deborah number, where e is the oscillation frequency. Under these conditions, we show that the first normal stress difference is the dominant rheological signal, scaling as G*Wi(1/2), where G* is the elastic modulus. The shear stress and second normal stress difference are of order G*. The polymer stress exhibits pronounced nonlinear oscillations, which are partitioned into two temporal regions: (i) A \\'core region,\\' on the time scale of r, reflecting a balance between anisotropic drag and orientation of polymers in the strong flow; and (ii) a \\'turning region,\\' centered around times when the shear flow reverses, whose duration is on the hybrid time scale (lambda*)(2/3) (gamma(0)*)(1/3), in which flow -driven orientation, anisotropic drag, and relaxation are all leading order effects. Our asymptotic solution is verified against numerical computations, and a qualitative comparison with relevant experimental observations is presented. Our results can, in principle, be employed to extract the nonlinearity (anisotropic drag) parameter, a, of the Giesekus model from experimental data, without the need to fit the stress waveform over a complete oscillation cycle. Finally, we discuss our findings in relation to recent work on shear banding in oscillatory flows. (C) 2016 The Society of Rheology. | [
1,
253
] |
Improved Constraints on Models of Glacial Isostatic Adjustment: A Review of the Contribution of Ground-Based Geodetic Observations. The provision of accurate models of Glacial Isostatic Adjustment (GIA) is presently a priority need in climate studies, largely due to the potential of the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) data to be used to determine accurate and continent-wide assessments of ice mass change and hydrology. However, modelled GIA is uncertain due to insufficient constraints on our knowledge of past glacial changes and to large simplifications in the underlying Earth models. Consequently, we show differences between models that exceed several mm/year in terms of surface displacement for the two major ice sheets: Greenland and Antarctica. Geodetic measurements of surface displacement offer the potential for new constraints to be made on GIA models, especially when they are used to improve structural features of the Earth's interior as to allow for a more realistic reconstruction of the glaciation history. We present the distribution of presently available campaign and continuous geodetic measurements in Greenland and Antarctica and summarise surface velocities published to date, showing substantial disagreement between techniques and GIA models alike. We review the current state-of-the-art in ground-based geodesy (GPS, VLBI, DORIS, SLR) in determining accurate and precise surface velocities. In particular, we focus on known areas of need in GPS observation level models and the terrestrial reference frame in order to advance geodetic observation precision/accuracy toward 0.1 mm/year and therefore further constrain models of GIA and subsequent present-day ice mass change estimates. | [
7,
162
] |
High-throughput enzyme-linked immunoabsorbant assay (ELISA) electrochemiluminescent detection of botulinum toxins in foods for food safety and defence purposes. Clostridum species produce seven serotypes (A-G) of botulinum toxin, four of which (A, B, E, and F) are normally associated with human illness. To date, the most reliable test for botulinum toxin is the mouse bioassay. The authors' laboratory has been exploring the use of an antibody-based assay similar to an enzyme-linked immunoabsorbant assay (ELISA) but utilizing electrochemiluminescent technology (BioVerify (R) assay) as an alternative to the mouse bioassay for testing food samples. The detection limit of this assay is as low as 10 ng g(-1) depending on the food matrix and the serotype detected. Detection of botulinum toxin between 10 and 200 ng g(-1) is a linear curve allowing for the possibility of performing quantitative as well as qualitative testing of samples. The ease of the assay, limited sample preparation, and low detection limit make the BioVerify assay and instrument an excellent, high-throughput option for detecting botulinum toxins in food matrices. | [
2,
179
] |
Abuse and dependence potential of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulators used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis: a review of literature and public data. Abuse and misuse of prescription drugs remains an ongoing concern in the USA and worldwide; thus, all centrally active new drugs must be assessed for abuse and dependence potential. Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulators are used primarily in the treatment of multiple sclerosis. Among the new S1P receptor modulators, siponimod, ozanimod, and ponesimod have recently been approved in the USA, European Union (EU), and other countries. This review of literature and other public data has been undertaken to assess the potential for abuse of S1P receptor modulators, including ozanimod, siponimod, ponesimod, and fingolimod, as well as several similar compounds in development. The S1P receptor modulators have not shown chemical or pharmacological similarity to known drugs of abuse; have not shown abuse or dependence potential in animal models for subjective effects, reinforcement, or physical dependence; and do not have adverse event profiles demonstrating effects of interest to individuals who abuse drugs (such as sedative, stimulant, mood-elevating, or hallucinogenic effects). In addition, no reports of actual abuse, misuse, or dependence were identified in the scientific literature for fingolimod, which has been on the market since 2010 (USA) and 2011 (EU). Overall, the data suggest that S1P receptor modulators are not associated with significant potential for abuse or dependence, consistent with their unscheduled status in the USA and internationally. | [
2,
159
] |
Sirtuin 4 Is a Lipoamidase Regulating Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Complex Activity. Sirtuins (SIRTs) are critical enzymes that govern genome regulation, metabolism, and aging. Despite conserved deacetylase domains, mitochondrial SIRT4 and SIRT5 have little to no deacetylase activity, and a robust catalytic activity for SIRT4 has been elusive. Here, we establish SIRT4 as a cellular lipoamidase that regulates the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDH). Importantly, SIRT4 catalytic efficiency for lipoyl-and biotinyl-lysine modifications is superior to its deacetylation activity. PDH, which converts pyruvate to acetyl-CoA, has been known to be primarily regulated by phosphorylation of its E1 component. We determine that SIRT4 enzymatically hydrolyzes the lipoamide cofactors from the E2 component dihydrolipoyllysine acetyltransferase (DLAT), diminishing PDH activity. We demonstrate SIRT4-mediated regulation of DLAT lipoyl levels and PDH activity in cells and in vivo, in mouse liver. Furthermore, metabolic flux switching via glutamine stimulation induces SIRT4 lipoamidase activity to inhibit PDH, highlighting SIRT4 as a guardian of cellular metabolism. | [
2,
156
] |
Distinct conformations of the kinesin Unc104 neck regulate a monomer to dimer motor transition. Caenhorhabditis elegans Unc104 kinesin transports synaptic vesicles at rapid velocities. Unc104 is primarily monomeric in solution, but recent motility studies suggest that it may dimerize when concentrated on membranes. Using cryo-electron microscopy, we observe two conformations of microtubule-bound Unc104: a monomeric state in which the two neck helices form an intramolecular, parallel coiled coil; and a dimeric state in which the neck helices form an intermolecular coiled coil. The intramolecular folded conformation is abolished by deletion of a flexible hinge separating the neck helices, indicating that it acts as a spacer to accommodate the parallel coiled-coil configuration. The neck hinge deletion mutation does not alter motor velocity in vitro but produces a severe uncoordinated phenotype in transgenic C elegans, suggesting that the folded conformation plays an important role in motor regulation. We suggest that the Unc104 neck regulates motility by switching from a self-folded, repressed state to a dimerized conformation that can support fast processive movement. | [
2,
56
] |
Enhancing the Stability of Photogenerated Benzophenone Triplet Radical Pairs through Supramolecular Assembly. Supramolecular assembly of urea-tethered benzophenone molecules results in the formation of remarkably persistent triplet radical pairs upon UV irradiation at room temperature, whereas no radicals were observed in solution. The factors that lead to emergent organic radicals are correlated with the microenvironment around the benzophenone carbonyl, types of proximal hydrogens, and the rigid supramolecular network. The absorption spectra of the linear analogues were rationalized using time-dependent density functional theory calculations on the crystal structure and in dimethyl sulfoxide, employing an implicit solvation model to describe structural and electronic solvent effects. Inspection of the natural transition orbitals for the more important excitation bands of the absorption spectra indicates that crystallization of the benzophenone-containing molecules should present a stark contrast in photophysical properties versus that in solution, which was indeed reflected by their quantum efficiencies upon solid-state assembly. Persistent organic radicals have prospective applications ranging from organic light-emitting diode technology to NMR polarizing agents. | [
1,
248
] |
Sound Level Monitoring at Live Events, Part 3-Improved Tools and Procedures. This is the final installment in a series of three papers looking into the subject of sound level monitoring at live events. The first two papers revealed how practical shortcomings and audience and neighbor considerations (in the form of sound level limits) can impact the overall live experience. This paper focuses on an improved set of tools for sound engineers to ensure a high-quality and safe live event experience while maintaining compliance with local sound level limits. This includes data processing tools to predict future limit violations and guidelines for improved user interface design. Practical procedures, including effective sound level monitoring practice, alongside resourceful mixing techniques are presented to provide a robust toolset that can allow sound engineers to perform their best without compromising the listening experience in response to local sound level limits. | [
4,
296
] |
Facile One-Pot Synthesis of Sustainable Carboxymethyl Chitosan - Sewage Sludge Biochar for Effective Heavy Metal Chelation and Regeneration. In this paper, sewage sludge, a solid waste from wastewater treatment plant, which eagerly requires proper treatment was reused as solid support in the form of sewage sludge biochar, then modified with carboxymethyl chitosan to form a bio-adsorbent. Further, carboxymethyl chitosan coating on sewage sludge biochar improved carboxymethyl chitosan's stability in water. The prepared bio-adsorbent revealed a shorter equilibrium time (< 60 min) for Pb(II) adsorption and a superior capacity of 594.17 mg g(-1) for Hg(II) adsorption, which are so far the best recorded performance achieved for chitosan based adsorbents. Additionally, the adsorbent was highly selective for heavy metal ions and it also presented a good stability and reusability for industrial applications. These outcomes demonstrate waste valorization through a green, facile and one-pot approach that turns the solid waste of sewage sludge into biochar adsorbent with propitious applications in the elimination of heavy metal ions from wastewater. | [
1,
331
] |
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