Representing nested semantic information in a linear string of text using XML.

PubMed Central

Krauthammer, Michael; Johnson, Stephen B.; Hripcsak, George; Campbell, David A.; Friedman, Carol

2002-01-01

XML has been widely adopted as an important data interchange language. The structure of XML enables sharing of data elements with variable degrees of nesting as long as the elements are grouped in a strict tree-like fashion. This requirement potentially restricts the usefulness of XML for marking up written text, which often includes features that do not properly nest within other features. We encountered this problem while marking up medical text with structured semantic information from a Natural Language Processor. Traditional approaches to this problem separate the structured information from the actual text mark up. This paper introduces an alternative solution, which tightly integrates the semantic structure with the text. The resulting XML markup preserves the linearity of the medical texts and can therefore be easily expanded with additional types of information. PMID:12463856

[Infusion of Daratumumab in Combination Therapies - Practical Information for The Outpatient Area].

PubMed

Scheid, Christof; Munder, Markus; Salwender, Hans; Engelhardt, Monika

2018-06-06

Combination therapies such as Dara-Rd and Dara-Vd show significantly higher survival rates after 12 months than the respective therapies without Daratumumab. The initial infusion of Daratumumab is associated with a high incidence of IRR. Dosage and speed of infusion of Daratumumab have to be strictly controlled. Any suspicion of even low IRR requires corrections. Concomitant medication before and after Daratumumab administration is required. For this purpose, various preparations have been tested in everyday clinical practice. Eight hours of infusion may be required. This does not only overwhelm the patient, but also the most ambulant structures. The split-dose concept means to divide the dose into infusions on different days. Again, the dosage is crucial for good compatibility. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

CRISPR-Cas9 Structures and Mechanisms.

PubMed

Jiang, Fuguo; Doudna, Jennifer A

2017-05-22

Many bacterial clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-CRISPR-associated (Cas) systems employ the dual RNA-guided DNA endonuclease Cas9 to defend against invading phages and conjugative plasmids by introducing site-specific double-stranded breaks in target DNA. Target recognition strictly requires the presence of a short protospacer adjacent motif (PAM) flanking the target site, and subsequent R-loop formation and strand scission are driven by complementary base pairing between the guide RNA and target DNA, Cas9-DNA interactions, and associated conformational changes. The use of CRISPR-Cas9 as an RNA-programmable DNA targeting and editing platform is simplified by a synthetic single-guide RNA (sgRNA) mimicking the natural dual trans-activating CRISPR RNA (tracrRNA)-CRISPR RNA (crRNA) structure. This review aims to provide an in-depth mechanistic and structural understanding of Cas9-mediated RNA-guided DNA targeting and cleavage. Molecular insights from biochemical and structural studies provide a framework for rational engineering aimed at altering catalytic function, guide RNA specificity, and PAM requirements and reducing off-target activity for the development of Cas9-based therapies against genetic diseases.

Applying the OTV to lunar logistics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Willcockson, W. H.

1988-01-01

The Orbit Transfer Vehicle (OTV), representing the next generation of upper stages, has recently been studied in a Phase A concept definition study managed by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center. The vehicle has been previously defined as strictly an orbit-to-orbit type transfer device. Recently its application to the task of lunar surface logistics was investigated. Transfer options to the surface were considered which included direct transfer, and transfer via lunar orbit as well as the L1 libration point. The subsystem modifications required to enable lunar landings were established for the following elements: aerobrake, main propulsion system, landing legs, primary structure, and avionics. It is concluded that the majority of the basic systems required for efficient transfer to the lunar surface are already contained in the OTV.

[Structural requirements for the management of patients with highly contagious life-threatening infectious diseases: update 2015].

PubMed

Grünewald, Thomas

2015-07-01

The care of highly contagious life-threatening infectious diseases (HLID) requires specialized treatment facilities that are capable of strict isolation measures and appropriate medical treatment. The German approach to the management of these diseases, which is maintained by the Permanent Working Group of Medical Competence and Treatment Centers for Highly Contagious and Life-Threatening Diseases (STAKOB) is adjusted in the present publication with regards to recent experiences and upcoming needs. Clear synergies in using infrastructures and bundling of resources have led to similar efforts at the European level. The German concept, therefore, has a pioneering role. This update is intended to improve professional patient care and also minimize the risk of disease spread and transmission.

Rational design of the exchange-spring permanent magnet.

PubMed

Jiang, J S; Bader, S D

2014-02-12

The development of the optimal exchange-spring permanent magnet balances exchange hardening, magnetization enhancement, and the feasibility of scalable fabrication. These requirements can be met with a rational design of the microstructural characteristics. The magnetization processes in several model exchange-spring structures with different geometries have been analyzed with both micromagnetic simulations and nucleation theory. The multilayer geometry and the soft-cylinders-in-hard-matrix geometry have the highest achievable figure of merit (BH)max, while the soft-spheres-in-hard-matrix geometry has the lowest upper limit for (BH)max. The cylindrical geometry permits the soft phase to be larger and does not require strict size control. Exchange-spring permanent magnets based on the cylindrical geometry may be amenable to scaled-up fabrication.

Spartan service module finite element modeling technique and analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lindenmoyer, A. J.

1985-01-01

Sounding rockets have served as a relatively inexpensive and easy method of carrying experiments into the upper atmosphere. Limited observation time and pointing capabilities suggested the development of a new sounding rocket type carrier compatible with NASA's Space Transportation System. This concept evolved into the Spartan program, now credited with a successful Spartan 101 mission launched in June 1985. The next series of Spartans will use a service module primary structure. This newly designed reusable and universal component in the Spartan carrier system required thorough analysis and evaluation for flight certification. Using advanced finite element modeling techniques, the structure was analyzed and determined acceptable by meeting strict design goals and will be tested for verification of the analytical results.

Exploring the formation pathways of donor-acceptor catenanes in aqueous dynamic combinatorial libraries.

PubMed

Cougnon, Fabien B L; Au-Yeung, Ho Yu; Pantoş, G Dan; Sanders, Jeremy K M

2011-03-09

The discovery through dynamic combinatorial chemistry (DCC) of a new generation of donor-acceptor [2]catenanes highlights the power of DCC to access unprecedented structures. While conventional thinking has limited the scope of donor-acceptor catenanes to strictly alternating stacks of donor (D) and acceptor (A) aromatic units, DCC is demonstrated in this paper to give access to unusual DAAD, DADD, and ADAA stacks. Each of these catenanes has specific structural requirements, allowing control of their formation. On the basis of these results, and on the observation that the catenanes represent kinetic bottlenecks in the reaction pathway, we propose a mechanism that explains and predicts the structures formed. Furthermore, the spontaneous assembly of catenanes in aqueous dynamic systems gives a fundamental insight into the role played by hydrophobic effect and donor-acceptor interactions when building such complex architectures.

Formalized Epistemology, Logic, and Grammar

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bitbol, Michel

The task of a formal epistemology is defined. It appears that a formal epistemology must be a generalization of "logic" in the sense of Wittgenstein's Tractatus. The generalization is required because, whereas logic presupposes a strict relation between activity and language, this relation may be broken in some domains of experimental enquiry (e.g., in microscopic physics). However, a formal epistemology should also retain a major feature of Wittgenstein's "logic": It must not be a discourse about scientific knowledge, but rather a way of making manifest the structures usually implicit in knowledge-gaining activity. This strategy is applied to the formalism of quantum mechanics.

Influence of time of placement of investments for burnout and the type of rings being used on the casting accuracy.

PubMed

Shah, Shabir A; Naqash, Talib Amin; Padmanabhan, T V; Subramanium; Lambodaran; Nazir, Shazana

2014-03-01

The sole objective of casting procedure is to provide a metallic duplication of missing tooth structure, with as great accuracy as possible. The ability to produce well fitting castings require strict adherence to certain fundamentals. A study was undertaken to comparatively evaluate the effect on casting accuracy by subjecting the invested wax patterns to burnout after different time intervals. The effect on casting accuracy using metal ring into a pre heated burnout furnace and using split ring was also carried. The readings obtained were tabulated and subjected to statistical analysis.

A lot of hard work, but doable: Pregnancy experiences of women with type-1 diabetes.

PubMed

McGrath, Meaghan; Chrisler, Joan C

2017-06-01

Despite many medical advances, pregnant women with type-1 diabetes are still considered to be at high risk. Previous research suggests that physicians' focus on strict glycemic control and negative outcomes can result in fear and uncertainty about undertaking pregnancy. The present study was designed to gain insight into the lived pregnancy experiences of women with type-1 diabetes and to solicit their thoughts on what health care providers could do to assist them to have a healthy pregnancy. Ten U.S. women with type-1 diabetes who were currently pregnant and/or had previously given birth participated in structured interviews. They described the hard work required to attain the strict glycemic control necessary during pregnancy to maintain their health and that of their fetus. However, they found diabetes and pregnancy to be a more positive and successful experience than they had anticipated. The results suggest that early diabetes education, pregnancy planning, and social support are important, yet often overlooked, factors that increase the likelihood of physically and emotionally successful pregnancy experiences for women with type-1 diabetes.

Anaerobic biodegradation of (emerging) organic contaminants in the aquatic environment.

PubMed

Ghattas, Ann-Kathrin; Fischer, Ferdinand; Wick, Arne; Ternes, Thomas A

2017-06-01

Although strictly anaerobic conditions prevail in several environmental compartments, up to now, biodegradation studies with emerging organic contaminants (EOCs), such as pharmaceuticals and personal care products, have mainly focused on aerobic conditions. One of the reasons probably is the assumption that the aerobic degradation is more energetically favorable than degradation under strictly anaerobic conditions. Certain aerobically recalcitrant contaminants, however, are biodegraded under strictly anaerobic conditions and little is known about the organisms and enzymatic processes involved in their degradation. This review provides a comprehensive survey of characteristic anaerobic biotransformation reactions for a variety of well-studied, structurally rather simple contaminants (SMOCs) bearing one or a few different functional groups/structural moieties. Furthermore it summarizes anaerobic degradation studies of more complex contaminants with several functional groups (CMCs), in soil, sediment and wastewater treatment. While strictly anaerobic conditions are able to promote the transformation of several aerobically persistent contaminants, the variety of observed reactions is limited, with reductive dehalogenations and the cleavage of ether bonds being the most prevalent. Thus, it becomes clear that the transferability of degradation mechanisms deduced from culture studies of SMOCs to predict the degradation of CMCs, such as EOCs, in environmental matrices is hampered due the more complex chemical structure bearing different functional groups, different environmental conditions (e.g. matrix, redox, pH), the microbial community (e.g. adaptation, competition) and the low concentrations typical for EOCs. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Maternal-Effect Lethal Mutations on Linkage Group II of Caenorhabditis Elegans

PubMed Central

Kemphues, K. J.; Kusch, M.; Wolf, N.

1988-01-01

We have analyzed a set of linkage group (LG) II maternal-effect lethal mutations in Caenorhabditis elegans isolated by a new screening procedure. Screens of 12,455 F(1) progeny from mutagenized adults resulted in the recovery of 54 maternal-effect lethal mutations identifying 29 genes. Of the 54 mutations, 39 are strict maternal-effect mutations defining 17 genes. These 17 genes fall into two classes distinguished by frequency of mutation to strict maternal-effect lethality. The smaller class, comprised of four genes, mutated to strict maternal-effect lethality at a frequency close to 5 X 10(-4), a rate typical of essential genes in C. elegans. Two of these genes are expressed during oogenesis and required exclusively for embryogenesis (pure maternal genes), one appears to be required specifically for meiosis, and the fourth has a more complex pattern of expression. The other 13 genes were represented by only one or two strict maternal alleles each. Two of these are identical genes previously identified by nonmaternal embryonic lethal mutations. We interpret our results to mean that although many C. elegans genes can mutate to strict maternal-effect lethality, most genes mutate to that phenotype rarely. Pure maternal genes, however, are among a smaller class of genes that mutate to maternal-effect lethality at typical rates. If our interpretation is correct, we are near saturation for pure maternal genes in the region of LG II balanced by mnC1. We conclude that the number of pure maternal genes in C. elegans is small, being probably not much higher than 12. PMID:3224814

An interplanetary planar magnetic structure oriented at a large (about 80 deg) angle to the Parker spiral

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Farrugia, M. W.; Dunlop, M. W.; Geurts, F.; Balogh, A.; Southwood, D. J.; Bryant, D. A.; Neugebauer, M.

1990-01-01

Magnetic field structures in the solar wind, characterized by a variation of the field vectors within a plane inclined to the ecliptic ('Planar Magnetic Structures', PMSs), were reported recently (Nakagawa et al., 1989). These PMSs have the property that the plane of variation of the field also contains the nominal Parker spiral direction. An observation of a PMS where the direction of the line of intersection of the plane of field variation with the ecliptic plane makes a large (about 80 deg) angle to the Parker spiral direction is presented. Furthermore, the angular variables of the field (1) vary over a restricted range, and (2) are linearly related. The latter property is related to the former. Currently proposed models for the origin of PMS, inasmuch as they require field configurations which retain strict alignment with the Parker spiral direction from formation to observation, are probably incomplete.

Relative entropy of entanglement and restricted measurements.

PubMed

Piani, M

2009-10-16

We introduce variants of relative entropy of entanglement based on the optimal distinguishability from unentangled states by means of restricted measurements. In this way we are able to prove that the standard regularized entropy of entanglement is strictly positive for all multipartite entangled states. This implies that the asymptotic creation of a multipartite entangled state by means of local operations and classical communication always requires the consumption of a nonlocal resource at a strictly positive rate.

A STRICTLY CONTRACTIVE PEACEMAN-RACHFORD SPLITTING METHOD FOR CONVEX PROGRAMMING.

PubMed

Bingsheng, He; Liu, Han; Wang, Zhaoran; Yuan, Xiaoming

2014-07-01

In this paper, we focus on the application of the Peaceman-Rachford splitting method (PRSM) to a convex minimization model with linear constraints and a separable objective function. Compared to the Douglas-Rachford splitting method (DRSM), another splitting method from which the alternating direction method of multipliers originates, PRSM requires more restrictive assumptions to ensure its convergence, while it is always faster whenever it is convergent. We first illustrate that the reason for this difference is that the iterative sequence generated by DRSM is strictly contractive, while that generated by PRSM is only contractive with respect to the solution set of the model. With only the convexity assumption on the objective function of the model under consideration, the convergence of PRSM is not guaranteed. But for this case, we show that the first t iterations of PRSM still enable us to find an approximate solution with an accuracy of O (1/ t ). A worst-case O (1/ t ) convergence rate of PRSM in the ergodic sense is thus established under mild assumptions. After that, we suggest attaching an underdetermined relaxation factor with PRSM to guarantee the strict contraction of its iterative sequence and thus propose a strictly contractive PRSM. A worst-case O (1/ t ) convergence rate of this strictly contractive PRSM in a nonergodic sense is established. We show the numerical efficiency of the strictly contractive PRSM by some applications in statistical learning and image processing.

Lipschitz regularity results for nonlinear strictly elliptic equations and applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ley, Olivier; Nguyen, Vinh Duc

2017-10-01

Most of Lipschitz regularity results for nonlinear strictly elliptic equations are obtained for a suitable growth power of the nonlinearity with respect to the gradient variable (subquadratic for instance). For equations with superquadratic growth power in gradient, one usually uses weak Bernstein-type arguments which require regularity and/or convex-type assumptions on the gradient nonlinearity. In this article, we obtain new Lipschitz regularity results for a large class of nonlinear strictly elliptic equations with possibly arbitrary growth power of the Hamiltonian with respect to the gradient variable using some ideas coming from Ishii-Lions' method. We use these bounds to solve an ergodic problem and to study the regularity and the large time behavior of the solution of the evolution equation.

Nano-Charged Polypropylene Application: Realistic Perspectives for Enhancing Durability

PubMed Central

Naddeo, Carlo; Vertuccio, Luigi; Barra, Giuseppina; Guadagno, Liberata

2017-01-01

Isotactic polypropylene/multi-walled carbon nanotube (iPP/MWCNTs) films have been exposed to accelerated weathering in a UV device for increasing times. The effect of UV irradiation on the structural and chemical changes has been investigated. The resistance to accelerated photooxidation of (iPP/MWCNTs) films has been compared to the photooxidation behaviour of unfilled polypropylene films with the same structural organization. The chemical and structural modifications resulting from photooxidation have been followed using infrared spectroscopy, calorimetric and diffractometric analysis. MWCNTs embedded in the polymeric matrix are able to strongly contrast the degradation mechanisms and the structural and morphological rearrangements caused by the UV treatment on the unfilled polymer. MWCNTs determine an induction period (IP) before the increase of the carbonyl and hydroxyl groups. The extent of the IP is strictly correlated to the amount of MWCNTs. The low electrical percolation threshold (EPT) and the electrical conductivity of the nanocomposites, together with their excellent thermal and photooxidative stability, make them promising candidates to fulfill many industrial requirements. PMID:28805728

Surface Nanobubbles Are Stabilized by Hydrophobic Attraction.

PubMed

Tan, Beng Hau; An, Hongjie; Ohl, Claus-Dieter

2018-04-20

The remarkably long lifetime of surface nanobubbles has perplexed researchers for two decades. The current understanding is that both contact line pinning and supersaturation of the ambient liquid are strictly required for the stability of nanobubbles, yet experiments show nanobubbles surviving in open systems and undersaturated environments. We find that this discrepancy can be addressed if the effects of an attractive hydrophobic potential at the solid substrate on the spatial distribution of the gas concentration is taken into account. We also show that, in our model, only substrate pinning is strictly required for stabilization; while hydrophobicity and supersaturation both aid stability, neither is mandatory-the absence of one can be compensated by an excess of the other.

Surface Nanobubbles Are Stabilized by Hydrophobic Attraction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tan, Beng Hau; An, Hongjie; Ohl, Claus-Dieter

2018-04-01

The remarkably long lifetime of surface nanobubbles has perplexed researchers for two decades. The current understanding is that both contact line pinning and supersaturation of the ambient liquid are strictly required for the stability of nanobubbles, yet experiments show nanobubbles surviving in open systems and undersaturated environments. We find that this discrepancy can be addressed if the effects of an attractive hydrophobic potential at the solid substrate on the spatial distribution of the gas concentration is taken into account. We also show that, in our model, only substrate pinning is strictly required for stabilization; while hydrophobicity and supersaturation both aid stability, neither is mandatory—the absence of one can be compensated by an excess of the other.

Maxillary segmental distraction in children with unilateral clefts of lip, palate, and alveolus.

PubMed

Zemann, Wolfgang; Pichelmayer, Margit

2011-06-01

Alveolar clefts are commonly closed by a bone grafting procedure. In cases of wide clefts the deficiency of soft tissue in the cleft area may lead to wound dehiscence and loss of the bony graft. Segmental maxillary bony transfer has been mentioned to be useful in such cases. Standard distraction devices allow unidirectional movement of the transported segment. Ideally the distraction should strictly follow the dental arch. The aim of this study was to analyze distraction devices that were adapted to the individual clinical situation of the patients. The goal was to achieve a distraction strictly parallel to the dental arch. Six children with unilateral clefts of lip, palate, and alveolus between 12 and 13 years of age were included in the study. The width of the cleft was between 7 and 19 mm. Dental cast models were used to manufacture individual distraction devices that should allow a segmental bony transport strictly parallel to the dental arch. Segmental osteotomy was performed under general anesthesia. Distraction was started 5 days after surgery. All distracters were tooth fixed but supported by palatal inserted orthodontic miniscrews. In all patients, a closure of the alveolar cleft was achieved. Two patients required additional bone grafting after the distraction procedure. The distraction was strictly parallel to the dental arch in all cases. In 1 case a slight cranial displacement of the transported maxillary segment could be noticed, leading to minor modifications of the following distractors. Distraction osteogenesis is a proper method to close wide alveolar clefts. Linear segmental transport is required in the posterior part of the dental arch, whereas in the frontal part the bony transport should run strictly parallel to the dental arch. An exact guided segmental transport may reduce the postoperative orthodontic complexity. Copyright © 2011 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

A Hybrid P2P Overlay Network for Non-strictly Hierarchically Categorized Content

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wan, Yi; Asaka, Takuya; Takahashi, Tatsuro

In P2P content distribution systems, there are many cases in which the content can be classified into hierarchically organized categories. In this paper, we propose a hybrid overlay network design suitable for such content called Pastry/NSHCC (Pastry for Non-Strictly Hierarchically Categorized Content). The semantic information of classification hierarchies of the content can be utilized regardless of whether they are in a strict tree structure or not. By doing so, the search scope can be restrained to any granularity, and the number of query messages also decreases while maintaining keyword searching availability. Through simulation, we showed that the proposed method provides better performance and lower overhead than unstructured overlays exploiting the same semantic information.

40 CFR 501.17 - Requirements for enforcement authority.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... which provide the criminal remedies based on “criminal negligence,” “gross negligence” or strict.... (2) The burden of proof and degree of knowledge or intent required under State law for establishing..., this requirement is not met if State law includes mental state as an element of proof for civil...

Sequence, structure and function relationships in flaviviruses as assessed by evolutive aspects of its conserved non-structural protein domains.

PubMed

da Fonseca, Néli José; Lima Afonso, Marcelo Querino; Pedersolli, Natan Gonçalves; de Oliveira, Lucas Carrijo; Andrade, Dhiego Souto; Bleicher, Lucas

2017-10-28

Flaviviruses are responsible for serious diseases such as dengue, yellow fever, and zika fever. Their genomes encode a polyprotein which, after cleavage, results in three structural and seven non-structural proteins. Homologous proteins can be studied by conservation and coevolution analysis as detected in multiple sequence alignments, usually reporting positions which are strictly necessary for the structure and/or function of all members in a protein family or which are involved in a specific sub-class feature requiring the coevolution of residue sets. This study provides a complete conservation and coevolution analysis on all flaviviruses non-structural proteins, with results mapped on all well-annotated available sequences. A literature review on the residues found in the analysis enabled us to compile available information on their roles and distribution among different flaviviruses. Also, we provide the mapping of conserved and coevolved residues for all sequences currently in SwissProt as a supplementary material, so that particularities in different viruses can be easily analyzed. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Condition Monitoring of Urban Infrastructure : Effects of Ground Movement on Adjacent Structures

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-09-26

Economic considerations drive the more effective use of space in urban areas, promoting the construction of taller buildings with deeper basement structures. The crowded nature of urban environments imposes strict restrictions to the tolerable perfor...

Documentation of Heritage Structures Through Geo-Crowdsourcing and Web-Mapping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dhonju, H. K.; Xiao, W.; Shakya, B.; Mills, J. P.; Sarhosis, V.

2017-09-01

Heritage documentation has become increasingly urgent due to both natural impacts and human influences. The documentation of countless heritage sites around the globe is a massive project that requires significant amounts of financial and labour resources. With the concepts of volunteered geographic information (VGI) and citizen science, heritage data such as digital photographs can be collected through online crowd participation. Whilst photographs are not strictly geographic data, they can be geo-tagged by the participants. They can also be automatically geo-referenced into a global coordinate system if collected via mobile phones which are now ubiquitous. With the assistance of web-mapping, an online geo-crowdsourcing platform has been developed to collect and display heritage structure photographs. Details of platform development are presented in this paper. The prototype is demonstrated with several heritage examples. Potential applications and advancements are discussed.

Retrieval Interference in Syntactic Processing: The Case of Reflexive Binding in English.

PubMed

Patil, Umesh; Vasishth, Shravan; Lewis, Richard L

2016-01-01

It has been proposed that in online sentence comprehension the dependency between a reflexive pronoun such as himself/herself and its antecedent is resolved using exclusively syntactic constraints. Under this strictly syntactic search account, Principle A of the binding theory-which requires that the antecedent c-command the reflexive within the same clause that the reflexive occurs in-constrains the parser's search for an antecedent. The parser thus ignores candidate antecedents that might match agreement features of the reflexive (e.g., gender) but are ineligible as potential antecedents because they are in structurally illicit positions. An alternative possibility accords no special status to structural constraints: in addition to using Principle A, the parser also uses non-structural cues such as gender to access the antecedent. According to cue-based retrieval theories of memory (e.g., Lewis and Vasishth, 2005), the use of non-structural cues should result in increased retrieval times and occasional errors when candidates partially match the cues, even if the candidates are in structurally illicit positions. In this paper, we first show how the retrieval processes that underlie the reflexive binding are naturally realized in the Lewis and Vasishth (2005) model. We present the predictions of the model under the assumption that both structural and non-structural cues are used during retrieval, and provide a critical analysis of previous empirical studies that failed to find evidence for the use of non-structural cues, suggesting that these failures may be Type II errors. We use this analysis and the results of further modeling to motivate a new empirical design that we use in an eye tracking study. The results of this study confirm the key predictions of the model concerning the use of non-structural cues, and are inconsistent with the strictly syntactic search account. These results present a challenge for theories advocating the infallibility of the human parser in the case of reflexive resolution, and provide support for the inclusion of agreement features such as gender in the set of retrieval cues.

Retrieval Interference in Syntactic Processing: The Case of Reflexive Binding in English

PubMed Central

Patil, Umesh; Vasishth, Shravan; Lewis, Richard L.

2016-01-01

It has been proposed that in online sentence comprehension the dependency between a reflexive pronoun such as himself/herself and its antecedent is resolved using exclusively syntactic constraints. Under this strictly syntactic search account, Principle A of the binding theory—which requires that the antecedent c-command the reflexive within the same clause that the reflexive occurs in—constrains the parser's search for an antecedent. The parser thus ignores candidate antecedents that might match agreement features of the reflexive (e.g., gender) but are ineligible as potential antecedents because they are in structurally illicit positions. An alternative possibility accords no special status to structural constraints: in addition to using Principle A, the parser also uses non-structural cues such as gender to access the antecedent. According to cue-based retrieval theories of memory (e.g., Lewis and Vasishth, 2005), the use of non-structural cues should result in increased retrieval times and occasional errors when candidates partially match the cues, even if the candidates are in structurally illicit positions. In this paper, we first show how the retrieval processes that underlie the reflexive binding are naturally realized in the Lewis and Vasishth (2005) model. We present the predictions of the model under the assumption that both structural and non-structural cues are used during retrieval, and provide a critical analysis of previous empirical studies that failed to find evidence for the use of non-structural cues, suggesting that these failures may be Type II errors. We use this analysis and the results of further modeling to motivate a new empirical design that we use in an eye tracking study. The results of this study confirm the key predictions of the model concerning the use of non-structural cues, and are inconsistent with the strictly syntactic search account. These results present a challenge for theories advocating the infallibility of the human parser in the case of reflexive resolution, and provide support for the inclusion of agreement features such as gender in the set of retrieval cues. PMID:27303315

Aspects of the Internal Structure of Nominalization: Roots, Morphology and Derivation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Punske, Jeffrey

2012-01-01

This dissertation uses syntactic, semantic and morphological evidence from English nominalization to probe the interaction of event-structure and syntax, develop a typology of structural complexity within nominalization, and test hypotheses about the strict ordering of functional items. I focus on the widely assumed typology of nominalization…

Strict or graduated punishment? Effect of punishment strictness on the evolution of cooperation in continuous public goods games.

PubMed

Shimao, Hajime; Nakamaru, Mayuko

2013-01-01

Whether costly punishment encourages cooperation is one of the principal questions in studies on the evolution of cooperation and social sciences. In society, punishment helps deter people from flouting rules in institutions. Specifically, graduated punishment is a design principle for long-enduring common-pool resource institutions. In this study, we investigate whether graduated punishment can promote a higher cooperation level when each individual plays the public goods game and has the opportunity to punish others whose cooperation levels fall below the punisher's threshold. We then examine how spatial structure affects evolutionary dynamics when each individual dies inversely proportional to the game score resulting from the social interaction and another player is randomly chosen from the population to produce offspring to fill the empty site created after a player's death. Our evolutionary simulation outcomes demonstrate that stricter punishment promotes increased cooperation more than graduated punishment in a spatially structured population, whereas graduated punishment increases cooperation more than strict punishment when players interact with randomly chosen opponents from the population. The mathematical analysis also supports the results.

Strict or Graduated Punishment? Effect of Punishment Strictness on the Evolution of Cooperation in Continuous Public Goods Games

PubMed Central

Shimao, Hajime; Nakamaru, Mayuko

2013-01-01

Whether costly punishment encourages cooperation is one of the principal questions in studies on the evolution of cooperation and social sciences. In society, punishment helps deter people from flouting rules in institutions. Specifically, graduated punishment is a design principle for long-enduring common-pool resource institutions. In this study, we investigate whether graduated punishment can promote a higher cooperation level when each individual plays the public goods game and has the opportunity to punish others whose cooperation levels fall below the punisher’s threshold. We then examine how spatial structure affects evolutionary dynamics when each individual dies inversely proportional to the game score resulting from the social interaction and another player is randomly chosen from the population to produce offspring to fill the empty site created after a player’s death. Our evolutionary simulation outcomes demonstrate that stricter punishment promotes increased cooperation more than graduated punishment in a spatially structured population, whereas graduated punishment increases cooperation more than strict punishment when players interact with randomly chosen opponents from the population. The mathematical analysis also supports the results. PMID:23555826

Interprocess Communication in Highly Distributed Systems - A Workshop Report - 20 to 22, November 1978.

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-12-01

Links between processes can be aLlocated strictLy to controL functions. In fact, the degree of separation of control and data is an important research is...delays or Loss of control messages. Cognoscienti agree that message-passing IPC schemes are equivalent in "power" to schemes which employ shared...THEORETICAL WORK Page 55 SECTION 6 THEORETICAL WORK 6.1 WORKING GRUP JIM REP.OR STRUCTURE of Discussion: Distributed system without central (or any) control

A STRICTLY CONTRACTIVE PEACEMAN–RACHFORD SPLITTING METHOD FOR CONVEX PROGRAMMING

PubMed Central

BINGSHENG, HE; LIU, HAN; WANG, ZHAORAN; YUAN, XIAOMING

2014-01-01

In this paper, we focus on the application of the Peaceman–Rachford splitting method (PRSM) to a convex minimization model with linear constraints and a separable objective function. Compared to the Douglas–Rachford splitting method (DRSM), another splitting method from which the alternating direction method of multipliers originates, PRSM requires more restrictive assumptions to ensure its convergence, while it is always faster whenever it is convergent. We first illustrate that the reason for this difference is that the iterative sequence generated by DRSM is strictly contractive, while that generated by PRSM is only contractive with respect to the solution set of the model. With only the convexity assumption on the objective function of the model under consideration, the convergence of PRSM is not guaranteed. But for this case, we show that the first t iterations of PRSM still enable us to find an approximate solution with an accuracy of O(1/t). A worst-case O(1/t) convergence rate of PRSM in the ergodic sense is thus established under mild assumptions. After that, we suggest attaching an underdetermined relaxation factor with PRSM to guarantee the strict contraction of its iterative sequence and thus propose a strictly contractive PRSM. A worst-case O(1/t) convergence rate of this strictly contractive PRSM in a nonergodic sense is established. We show the numerical efficiency of the strictly contractive PRSM by some applications in statistical learning and image processing. PMID:25620862

Private and social costs of surface mine reforestation performance criteria.

PubMed

Sullivan, Jay; Amacher, Gregory S

2010-02-01

We study the potentially unnecessary costs imposed by strict performance standards for forest restoration of surface coal mines in the Appalachian region under the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA) that can vary widely across states. Both the unnecessary private costs to the mine operator and costs to society (social costs) are reported for two performance standards, a ground cover requirement, and a seedling survival target. These standards are examined using numerical analyses under a range of site productivity class and market conditions. We show that a strict (90%) ground cover standard may produce an unnecessary private cost of more than $700/ha and a social cost ranging from $428/ha to $710/ha, as compared with a 70% standard. A strict tree survival standard of 1235 trees/ha, as compared with the more typical 1087 trees/ha standard, may produce an unnecessary private cost of approximately $200/ha, and a social cost in the range of $120 to $208/ha. We conclude that strict performance standards may impose substantial unnecessary private costs and social costs, that strict performance standards may be discouraging the choice of forestry as a post-mining land use, and that opportunities exist for reform of reforestation performance standards. Our study provides a basis for evaluating tradeoffs between regulatory efficiency and optimal reforestation effort.

An Evaluation of Frangible Materials as Veneers on Vented Structural Member Designs

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jameson, Kevin Jay

2015-10-01

Literature shows there has been extensive research and testing done in the area of wall panels and frangible materials. There is evidence from past research that shows it is possible to vent a structure that has had an accidental internal explosion [1]. The reviewed literature shows that most designs vent the entire wall panel versus a frangible material attached to the wall panel. The frangible material attachment points are important to determine the overall loading of the wall panel structure [2]. The materials used in the reviewed literature were securely attached as well as strong enough to remain intact duringmore » the pressure loading to move the entire wall panel. Since the vented wall panel was the weakest part of the overall structure, the other walls of the structure were substantially larger. The structure was usually built from concrete and large amounts of steel with dirt and sand over the top of the structure.The study will be conducted at Sandia National Laboratories located in Albuquerque New Mexico. The skeletal structural design for evaluation is a rectangular frame with a square grid pattern constructed from steel. The skeletal structure has been given to the researcher as a design requirement. The grid pattern will be evaluated strictly on plastic deformation and the loading that is applied from the frangible material. The frangible material tested will either fit into the grid or will be a veneer lightly attached to the structure frame. The frangible material may be required on both sides of the structure to adequately represent the application.« less

Tilt performance of the ground settlement sensor configured in a fiber-optic low-coherent interferometer.

PubMed

Zhang, Pinglei; Wei, Heming; Guo, Jingjing; Sun, Changsen

2016-10-01

Ground settlement (GS) is one of the causes that destroy the durability of reinforced concrete structures. It could lead to a deterioration in the structural basement and increase the risk of collapse. The methods used for GS monitoring were mostly electronic-based sensors for reading the changes in resistance, resonant frequencies, etc. These sensors often bear low accuracy in the long term. Our published work demonstrated that a fiber-optic low-coherent interferometer configured in a Michelson interferometer was designed as a GS sensor, and a micro-meter resolution in the room environment was approached. However, the designed GS sensor, which in principle is based on a hydraulic connecting vessel, has to suffer from a tilt degeneration problem due to a strictly vertical requirement in practical installment. Here, we made a design for the GS sensor based on its robust tilt performance. The experimental tests show that the sensor can work well within a ±5° tilt. This could meet the requirements in most designed GS sensor installment applications.

Are Structural Estimates of Auction Models Reasonable? Evidence from Experimental Data

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bajari, Patrick; Hortacsu, Ali

2005-01-01

Recently, economists have developed methods for structural estimation of auction models. Many researchers object to these methods because they find the strict rationality assumptions to be implausible. Using bid data from first-price auction experiments, we estimate four alternative structural models: (1) risk-neutral Bayes-Nash, (2) risk-averse…

MCM: one ring to rule them all.

PubMed

Deegan, Tom D; Diffley, John F X

2016-04-01

Precise replication of the eukaryotic genome is achieved primarily through strict regulation of the enzyme responsible for DNA unwinding, the replicative helicase. The motor of this helicase is a hexameric AAA+ ATPase called MCM. The loading of MCM onto DNA and its subsequent activation and disassembly are each restricted to separate cell cycle phases; this ensures that a functional replisome is only built once at any replication origin. In recent years, biochemical and structural studies have shown that distinct conformational changes in MCM, each requiring post-translational modifications and/or the activity of other replication proteins, define the various stages of the chromosome replication cycle. Here, we review recent progress in this area. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

PREDICTION OF CHEMICAL REACTIVITY PARAMETERS AND PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF ORGANIC COMPOUNDS FROM MOLECULAR STRUCTURE USING SPARC

EPA Science Inventory

The computer program SPARC (SPARC Performs Automated Reasoning in Chemistry) has been under development for several years to estimate physical properties and chemical reactivity parameters of organic compounds strictly from molecular structure. SPARC uses computational algorithms...

Metasurface optical antireflection coating

DOE PAGES

Zhang, Boyang; Hendrickson, Joshua; Nader, Nima; ...

2014-12-15

Light reflection at the boundary of two different media is one of the fundamental phenomena in optics, and reduction of reflection is highly desirable in many optical systems. Traditionally, optical antireflection has been accomplished using single- or multiple-layer dielectric films and graded index surface structures in various wavelength ranges. However, these approaches either impose strict requirements on the refractive index matching and film thickness, or involve complicated fabrication processes and non-planar surfaces that are challenging for device integration. Here, we demonstrate an antireflection coating strategy, both experimentally and numerically, by using metasurfaces with designer optical properties in the mid-wave infrared.more » Our results show that the metasurface antireflection is capable of eliminating reflection and enhancing transmission over a broad spectral band and a wide incidence angle range. In conclusion, the demonstrated antireflection technique has no requirement on the choice of materials and is scalable to other wavelengths.« less

The Maxxi Museum in Rome: AN Integrated Survey Experience for the Restoration of Contemporary Architecture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Versaci, A.; Cardaci, A.

2017-05-01

In recent years, the fate of contemporary buildings in reinforced concrete is becoming a growing concern due to the fast ageing of structures, however, often of great architectural and social interest. The procedures to put in place for their material and structural preservation require multidisciplinary expertise, but also new methodological insights as most of these edifices are the result of pioneering experiments and individual `challenges' from the morphological and technical point of views. They strictly depend on both the recognition of their peculiarities and the ability to differentiate their intrinsic characteristics of inhomogeneity from insecurity factors and degradation phenomena. This paper focuses on the experience undertaken on the MAXXI, the National Museum of the 21st century Arts, built by Zaha Hadid Architects in Rome to highlight the methodological process followed for the knowledge of this architectural work, in view of the establishment of the project for its conservation.

EVA Design, Verification, and On-Orbit Operations Support Using Worksite Analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hagale, Thomas J.; Price, Larry R.

2000-01-01

The International Space Station (ISS) design is a very large and complex orbiting structure with thousands of Extravehicular Activity (EVA) worksites. These worksites are used to assemble and maintain the ISS. The challenge facing EVA designers was how to design, verify, and operationally support such a large number of worksites within cost and schedule. This has been solved through the practical use of computer aided design (CAD) graphical techniques that have been developed and used with a high degree of success over the past decade. The EVA design process allows analysts to work concurrently with hardware designers so that EVA equipment can be incorporated and structures configured to allow for EVA access and manipulation. Compliance with EVA requirements is strictly enforced during the design process. These techniques and procedures, coupled with neutral buoyancy underwater testing, have proven most valuable in the development, verification, and on-orbit support of planned or contingency EVA worksites.

Dentine bond strength and antimicrobial activity evaluation of adhesive systems.

PubMed

André, Carolina Bosso; Gomes, Brenda Paula Figueiredo Almeida; Duque, Thais Mageste; Stipp, Rafael Nobrega; Chan, Daniel Chi Ngai; Ambrosano, Glaucia Maria Bovi; Giannini, Marcelo

2015-04-01

This study evaluated the dentine bond strength (BS) and the antibacterial activity (AA) of six adhesives against strict anaerobic and facultative bacteria. Three adhesives containing antibacterial components (Gluma 2Bond (glutaraldehyde)/G2B, Clearfil SE Protect (MDPB)/CSP and Peak Universal Bond (PUB)/chlorhexidine) and the same adhesive versions without antibacterial agents (Gluma Comfort Bond/GCB, Clearfil SE Bond/CSB and Peak LC Bond/PLB) were tested. The AA of adhesives and control groups was evaluated by direct contact method against four strict anaerobic and four facultative bacteria. After incubation, according to the appropriate periods of time for each microorganism, the time to kill microorganisms was measured. For BS, the adhesives were applied according to manufacturers' recommendations and teeth restored with composite. Teeth (n=10) were sectioned to obtain bonded beams specimens, which were tested after artificial saliva storage for one week and one year. BS data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA and Tukey test. Saliva storage for one year reduces the BS only for GCB. In general G2B and GCB required at least 24h for killing microorganisms. PUB and PLB killed only strict anaerobic microorganisms after 24h. For CSP the average time to eliminate the Streptococcus mutans and strict anaerobic oral pathogens was 30 min. CSB showed no AA against facultative bacteria, but had AA against some strict anaerobic microorganisms. Storage time had no effect on the BS for most of the adhesives. The time required to kill bacteria depended on the type of adhesive and never was less than 10 min. Most of the adhesives showed stable bond strength after one year and the Clearfil SE Protect may be a good alternative in restorative procedures performed on dentine, considering its adequate bond strength and better antibacterial activity. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Cleavage preference distinguishes the two-component NS2B-NS3 serine proteinases of Dengue and West Nile viruses.

PubMed

Shiryaev, Sergey A; Kozlov, Igor A; Ratnikov, Boris I; Smith, Jeffrey W; Lebl, Michal; Strongin, Alex Y

2007-02-01

Regulated proteolysis of the polyprotein precursor by the NS2B-NS3 protease is required for the propagation of infectious virions. Unless the structural and functional parameters of NS2B-NS3 are precisely determined, an understanding of its functional role and the design of flaviviral inhibitors will be exceedingly difficult. Our objectives were to define the substrate recognition pattern of the NS2B-NS3 protease of West Nile and Dengue virises (WNV and DV respectively). To accomplish our goals, we used an efficient, 96-well plate format, method for the synthesis of 9-mer peptide substrates with the general P4-P3-P2-P1-P1'-P2'-P3'-P4'-Gly structure. The N-terminus and the constant C-terminal Gly of the peptides were tagged with a fluorescent tag and with a biotin tag respectively. The synthesis was followed by the proteolytic cleavage of the synthesized, tagged peptides. Because of the strict requirement for the presence of basic amino acid residues at the P1 and the P2 substrate positions, the analysis of approx. 300 peptide sequences was sufficient for an adequate representation of the cleavage preferences of the WNV and DV proteinases. Our results disclosed the strict substrate specificity of the WNV protease for which the (K/R)(K/R)R/GG amino acid motifs was optimal. The DV protease was less selective and it tolerated well the presence of a number of amino acid residue types at either the P1' or the P2' site, as long as the other position was occupied by a glycine residue. We believe that our data represent a valuable biochemical resource and a solid foundation to support the design of selective substrates and synthetic inhibitors of flaviviral proteinases.

Vocational Teachers' Identity Formation through Boundary Crossing

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fejes, Andreas; Köpsén, Susanne

2014-01-01

Vocational teachers' prior occupational experiences are construed as those that will guarantee high-quality teaching in vocational education, although individuals are no longer required to have formal teaching qualifications to be employed as teachers in Sweden. This lack of strict requirements raises the issue of the preparedness of vocational…

Cognate Facilitation in Sentence Context--Translation Production by Interpreting Trainees and Non-Interpreting Trilinguals

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lijewska, Agnieszka; Chmiel, Agnieszka

2015-01-01

Conference interpreters form a special case of language users because the simultaneous interpretation practice requires very specific lexical processing. Word comprehension and production in respective languages is performed under strict time constraints and requires constant activation of the involved languages. The present experiment aimed at…

Parametric Modelling of As-Built Beam Framed Structure in Bim Environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, X.; Koehl, M.; Grussenmeyer, P.

2017-02-01

A complete documentation and conservation of a historic timber roof requires the integration of geometry modelling, attributional and dynamic information management and results of structural analysis. Recently developed as-built Building Information Modelling (BIM) technique has the potential to provide a uniform platform, which provides possibility to integrate the traditional geometry modelling, parametric elements management and structural analysis together. The main objective of the project presented in this paper is to develop a parametric modelling tool for a timber roof structure whose elements are leaning and crossing beam frame. Since Autodesk Revit, as the typical BIM software, provides the platform for parametric modelling and information management, an API plugin, able to automatically create the parametric beam elements and link them together with strict relationship, was developed. The plugin under development is introduced in the paper, which can obtain the parametric beam model via Autodesk Revit API from total station points and terrestrial laser scanning data. The results show the potential of automatizing the parametric modelling by interactive API development in BIM environment. It also integrates the separate data processing and different platforms into the uniform Revit software.

Recent advances in MeCP2 structure and function1

PubMed Central

Hite, Kristopher C.; Adams, Valerie H.; Hansen, Jeffrey C.

2010-01-01

Mutations in methyl DNA binding protein 2 (MeCP2) cause the neurodevelopmental disorder Rett syndrome (RTT). The mechanism(s) by which the native MeCP2 protein operates in the cell are not well understood. Historically, MeCP2 has been characterized as a proximal gene silencer with 2 functional domains: a methyl DNA binding domain and a transcription repression domain. However, several lines of new data indicate that MeCP2 structure and function relationships are more complex. In this review, we first discuss recent studies that have advanced understanding of the basic structural biochemistry of MeCP2. This is followed by an analysis of cell-based experiments suggesting MeCP2 is a regulator, rather than a strict silencer, of transcription. The new data establish MeCP2 as a multifunctional nuclear protein, with potentially important roles in chromatin architecture, regulation of RNA splicing, and active transcription. We conclude by discussing clinical correlations between domain-specific mutations and RTT pathology to stress that all structural domains of MeCP2 are required to properly mediate cellular function of the intact protein. PMID:19234536

ESTIMATION OF HYDROLYSIS RATE CONSTANTS OF CARBOXYLIC ACID ESTER AND PHOSPHATE ESTER COMPOUNDS IN AQUEOUS SYSTEMS FROM MOLECULAR STRUCTURE BY SPARC

EPA Science Inventory

SPARC (SPARC Performs Automated Reasoning in Chemistry) chemical reactivity models were extended to calculate hydrolysis rate constants for carboxylic acid ester and phosphate ester compounds in aqueous non- aqueous and systems strictly from molecular structure. The energy diffe...

PREDICTION OF THE SOLUBILITY, ACTIVITY COEFFICIENT AND LIQUID/LIQUID PARTITION COEFFICIENT OF ORGANIC COMPOUNDS

EPA Science Inventory

Solvation models, based on fundamental chemical structure theory, were developed in the SPARC mechanistic tool box to predict a large array of physical properties of organic compounds in water and in non-aqueous solvents strictly from molecular structure. The SPARC self-interact...

Ontogenetic diet shifts and their incidence on ecological processes: a case study using two morphologically similar stoneflies (Plecoptera)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Céréghino, Régis

2006-07-01

Most ecological studies consider conspecific individuals as ecologically equivalent, assuming that inter-instar variation is weak and has a limited influence on functional processes. To test this assumption, we investigated the life history and trophic basis of production in two predatory stoneflies, Perlodes microcephalus and Isoperla acicularis, in a mountain stream. The variety of prey types increased with predator size. However, larvae started their development with a strictly phytophagous diet (3 months), then ingested both vegetal material and animal prey (2-3 months). Finally, larvae were strictly carnivorous when head width reached 1.1 mm. Young (herbivorous) I. acicularis larvae occurred from June to August. Young P. microcephalus larvae hatched in October, and were herbivorous until December, when I. acicularis larvae were omnivorous. Competition for animal prey was likely to occur in the spring, but P. microcephalus grew faster and emerged earlier. The cohort productions were mostly based on carnivory (78.7-90.7%), because most production occurred in later instars. Ontogenetic diet shifts could play a role in the structuring of species assemblages by adjusting species' requirements to the temporal dynamics of environmental conditions, including food availability and biotic interactions. However, their incidence on global processes is quantitatively limited, large individuals having the greatest impacts on the way energy flows.

Improving Unipolar Resistive Switching Uniformity with Cone-Shaped Conducting Filaments and Its Logic-In-Memory Application.

PubMed

Gao, Shuang; Liu, Gang; Chen, Qilai; Xue, Wuhong; Yang, Huali; Shang, Jie; Chen, Bin; Zeng, Fei; Song, Cheng; Pan, Feng; Li, Run-Wei

2018-02-21

Resistive random access memory (RRAM) with inherent logic-in-memory capability exhibits great potential to construct beyond von-Neumann computers. Particularly, unipolar RRAM is more promising because its single polarity operation enables large-scale crossbar logic-in-memory circuits with the highest integration density and simpler peripheral control circuits. However, unipolar RRAM usually exhibits poor switching uniformity because of random activation of conducting filaments and consequently cannot meet the strict uniformity requirement for logic-in-memory application. In this contribution, a new methodology that constructs cone-shaped conducting filaments by using chemically a active metal cathode is proposed to improve unipolar switching uniformity. Such a peculiar metal cathode will react spontaneously with the oxide switching layer to form an interfacial layer, which together with the metal cathode itself can act as a load resistor to prevent the overgrowth of conducting filaments and thus make them more cone-like. In this way, the rupture of conducting filaments can be strictly limited to the tip region, making their residual parts favorable locations for subsequent filament growth and thus suppressing their random regeneration. As such, a novel "one switch + one unipolar RRAM cell" hybrid structure is capable to realize all 16 Boolean logic functions for large-scale logic-in-memory circuits.

Investigating mycobacterial topoisomerase I mechanism from the analysis of metal and DNA substrate interactions at the active site.

PubMed

Cao, Nan; Tan, Kemin; Annamalai, Thirunavukkarasu; Joachimiak, Andrzej; Tse-Dinh, Yuk-Ching

2018-06-14

We have obtained new crystal structures of Mycobacterium tuberculosis topoisomerase I, including structures with ssDNA substrate bound to the active site, with and without Mg2+ ion present. Significant enzyme conformational changes upon DNA binding place the catalytic tyrosine in a pre-transition state position for cleavage of a specific phosphodiester linkage. Meanwhile, the enzyme/DNA complex with bound Mg2+ ion may represent the post-transition state for religation in the enzyme's multiple-step DNA relaxation catalytic cycle. The first observation of Mg2+ ion coordinated with the TOPRIM residues and DNA phosphate in a type IA topoisomerase active site allows assignment of likely catalytic role for the metal and draws a comparison to the proposed mechanism for type IIA topoisomerases. The critical function of a strictly conserved glutamic acid in the DNA cleavage step was assessed through site-directed mutagenesis. The functions assigned to the observed Mg2+ ion can account for the metal requirement for DNA rejoining but not DNA cleavage by type IA topoisomerases. This work provides new structural insights into a more stringent requirement for DNA rejoining versus cleavage in the catalytic cycle of this essential enzyme, and further establishes the potential for selective interference of DNA rejoining by this validated TB drug target.

Absolute Side-chain Structure at Position 13 Is Required for the Inhibitory Activity of Bromein*

PubMed Central

Sawano, Yoriko; Hatano, Ken-ichi; Miyakawa, Takuya; Tanokura, Masaru

2008-01-01

Bromelain isoinhibitor (bromein), a cysteine proteinase inhibitor from pineapple stem, has a unique double-chain structure. The bromein precursor protein includes three homologous inhibitor domains, each containing an interchain peptide between the light and heavy chains. The interchain peptide in the single-chain precursor is immediately processed by bromelain, a target proteinase. In the present study, to clarify the essential inhibitory site of bromein, we constructed 44 kinds of site-directed and deletion mutants and investigated the inhibitory activity of each toward bromelain. As a result, the complete chemical structure of Leu13 in the light chain was revealed to be essential for inhibition. Pro12 prior to the leucine residue was also involved in the inhibitory activity and would control the location of the leucine side chain by the fixed φ dihedral angle of proline. Furthermore, the five-residue length of the interchain peptide was strictly required for the inhibitory activity. On the other hand, no inhibitory activity against bromelain was observed by the substitution of proline for the N terminus residue Thr15 of the interchain peptide. In summary, these mutational analyses of bromein demonstrated that the appropriate position and conformation of Leu13 are absolutely crucial for bromelain inhibition. PMID:18948264

Tripartite-to-Bipartite Entanglement Transformation by Stochastic Local Operations and Classical Communication and the Structure of Matrix Spaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Yinan; Qiao, Youming; Wang, Xin; Duan, Runyao

2018-03-01

We study the problem of transforming a tripartite pure state to a bipartite one using stochastic local operations and classical communication (SLOCC). It is known that the tripartite-to-bipartite SLOCC convertibility is characterized by the maximal Schmidt rank of the given tripartite state, i.e. the largest Schmidt rank over those bipartite states lying in the support of the reduced density operator. In this paper, we further study this problem and exhibit novel results in both multi-copy and asymptotic settings, utilizing powerful results from the structure of matrix spaces. In the multi-copy regime, we observe that the maximal Schmidt rank is strictly super-multiplicative, i.e. the maximal Schmidt rank of the tensor product of two tripartite pure states can be strictly larger than the product of their maximal Schmidt ranks. We then provide a full characterization of those tripartite states whose maximal Schmidt rank is strictly super-multiplicative when taking tensor product with itself. Notice that such tripartite states admit strict advantages in tripartite-to-bipartite SLOCC transformation when multiple copies are provided. In the asymptotic setting, we focus on determining the tripartite-to-bipartite SLOCC entanglement transformation rate. Computing this rate turns out to be equivalent to computing the asymptotic maximal Schmidt rank of the tripartite state, defined as the regularization of its maximal Schmidt rank. Despite the difficulty caused by the super-multiplicative property, we provide explicit formulas for evaluating the asymptotic maximal Schmidt ranks of two important families of tripartite pure states by resorting to certain results of the structure of matrix spaces, including the study of matrix semi-invariants. These formulas turn out to be powerful enough to give a sufficient and necessary condition to determine whether a given tripartite pure state can be transformed to the bipartite maximally entangled state under SLOCC, in the asymptotic setting. Applying the recent progress on the non-commutative rank problem, we can verify this condition in deterministic polynomial time.

Fifty Ways to Leave a Child Behind: Idiosyncrasies and Discrepancies in States' Implementation of NCLB

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Davidson, Elizabeth; Reback, Randall; Rockoff, Jonah; Schwartz, Heather L.

2015-01-01

The No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act required states to adopt accountability systems measuring student proficiency on state-administered exams. The federal legislation contained several strict requirements for NCLB implementation, such as escalating student proficiency targets that reach 100% proficiency by 2014. But it also gave states…

[German stem-cell law: content and critique].

PubMed

Simon, Jürgen

2002-01-01

The author analyzes in this work the new German Stem Cells Act, approved by the German Parliament on 10 of May 2002. In this law it is prohibited with general character the investigation with stem cells of embryonic origin, although it is allowed under certain very strict requirements. The conflict that arises among a very strict protection of the embryo, such and like it happens in the present law, and the constitutional right to scientific investigation is also analyzed, a reference to the derivative problems of the lack of clarity of some articles of the law is also made.

HYDROLYSIS

EPA Science Inventory

Hydrolytic processes provide the baseline loss rate for any chemical in an aqueous envi- ronment. Although various hydrolytic pathways account for significant degradation of certain classes of organic chemicals, other organic structures are completely inert. Strictly speaking, hy...

Structure and agency in development-induced forced migration: the case of Brazil’s Belo Monte Dam

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

This paper examines how structure and agency interact to shape forced migration outcomes. Specifically, I ask how structural factors such as compensation policies as well as social, financial, and human capital may either foster or constrain migration aspirations and capabilities. I use longitudinal, semi-structured interview data to study forced migration among farmers displaced by the Belo Monte Dam in the Brazilian Amazon. Results from baseline interviews indicate that nearly all community members aspired to purchase rural land in the region and maintain livelihoods as cacao farmers or cattle ranchers. Constraints limiting the ability to attain aspirations included strict requirements on land titles for properties, delays in receiving compensation, rising land prices, and the lack of power to negotiate for better compensation. Despite these constraints, most migrants succeeded in attaining aspirations, as they were able to mobilize resources such as social networks, financial capital, skills, and knowledge. These findings highlight the importance of considering the relationship between structure and agency within forced migration research. I conclude by discussing how the findings may inform resettlement policies for future cases of development- or environment-induced forced migration. PMID:28298745

Structural basis of DNA sequence recognition by the response regulator PhoP in Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

PubMed

He, Xiaoyuan; Wang, Liqin; Wang, Shuishu

2016-04-15

The transcriptional regulator PhoP is an essential virulence factor in Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and it presents a target for the development of new anti-tuberculosis drugs and attenuated tuberculosis vaccine strains. PhoP binds to DNA as a highly cooperative dimer by recognizing direct repeats of 7-bp motifs with a 4-bp spacer. To elucidate the PhoP-DNA binding mechanism, we determined the crystal structure of the PhoP-DNA complex. The structure revealed a tandem PhoP dimer that bound to the direct repeat. The surprising tandem arrangement of the receiver domains allowed the four domains of the PhoP dimer to form a compact structure, accounting for the strict requirement of a 4-bp spacer and the highly cooperative binding of the dimer. The PhoP-DNA interactions exclusively involved the effector domain. The sequence-recognition helix made contact with the bases of the 7-bp motif in the major groove, and the wing interacted with the adjacent minor groove. The structure provides a starting point for the elucidation of the mechanism by which PhoP regulates the virulence of M. tuberculosis and guides the design of screening platforms for PhoP inhibitors.

Light scattering by a nematic liquid crystal droplet: Wentzel–Kramers–Brillouin approximation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Loiko, V. A., E-mail: loiko@dragon.bas-net.by; Konkolovich, A. V.; Miskevich, A. A.

2016-01-15

Light scattering by an optically anisotropic liquid crystal (LC) droplet of a nematic in an isotropic polymer matrix is considered in the Wentzel–Kramers–Brillouin (WKB) approximation. General relations are obtained for elements of the amplitude matrix of light scattering by a droplet of arbitrary shape and for the structure of the director field. Analytic expressions for the amplitude matrices are derived for spherical LC droplets with a uniformly oriented structure of local optical axes for strictly forward and strictly backward scattering. The efficiency factors of extinction and backward scattering for a spherical nonabsorbing LC droplet depending on the LC optical anisotropy,more » refractive index of the polymer, illumination conditions, and orientation of the optical axis of the droplet are analyzed. Verification of the obtained solutions has been performed.« less

How strictly do dialysis patients want their advance directives followed?

PubMed

Sehgal, A; Galbraith, A; Chesney, M; Schoenfeld, P; Charles, G; Lo, B

1992-01-01

The Cruzan case and the Patient Self-Determination Act will encourage patients to specify in advance which life-sustaining treatments they would want if they become mentally incompetent. However, strictly following such advance directives may not always be in a patient's best interests. We sought to determine whether patients differ in how strictly they want advance directives followed. Interview study. Seven outpatient chronic dialysis centers. One hundred fifty mentally competent dialysis patients. Using a structured questionnaire, we asked the subjects whether they would want dialysis continued or stopped if they developed advanced Alzheimer's disease. We then asked how much leeway their physician and surrogate should have to override that advance directive if overriding were in their best interests. Subjects granting leeway were also asked what factors should be considered in making decisions for them. Subjects varied greatly in how much leeway they would give surrogates to override their advance directives: "no leeway" (39%), "a little leeway" (19%), "a lot of leeway" (11%), and "complete leeway" (31%). Subjects also varied in how much they wanted various factors considered in making decisions, such as pain or suffering, quality of life, possibility of a new treatment, indignity caused by continued treatment, financial impact of treatment on family members, and religious beliefs. Strictly following all advance directives may not truly reflect patients' preferences. To improve advance directives, we recommend that physicians explicitly ask patients how strictly they want their advance directives followed and what factors they want considered in making decisions.

[A national online survey applied to patients with celiac disease in Chile].

PubMed

Espino, Alberto; Castillo L, Cecilia; Guiraldes, Ernesto; Santibáñez, Helga; Miquel, Juan Francisco

2011-07-01

Celiac disease (CD) is an immune-mediated enteropathy triggered by the ingestion of gluten in genetically susceptible individuals. Its prevalence in Europe and the USA is 0.5 to 1%. To analyze epidemiological aspects and degree of compliance with gluten-free diet (GFD) among Chilean individuals with CD. Subjects with confirmed or suspected CD were invited to answer an online survey published on the web at www.fundacionconvivir.cl. The answers were reinforced with a telephone interview. The survey was answered by 1212 subjects (79% females). Median age at diagnosis was 25.8 years (range 1 to 84 years), with a bimodal curve with two peaks at less than 3 years and at 20 to 40 years of age. The diagnosis was made only by serologic markers in 9%, only by intestinal biopsy in 17.5%, and by a combination of both methods in 70%o. Conditions associated with CD were reported by 30% > of subjects and 20% > had relatives with CD. The GFD was strictly adhered to by 70% >, occasionally by 27% > and never by 3% >. Seventy five percent of subjects with a strict adherence to GFD had a favorable clinical response compared with 42% > of those with incomplete or lack of adherence (odds ratio 4.0, 95% > confidence intervals 2.8-5.7p < 0.01). In 30% of respondents, the diagnosis of CD was not confirmed according to international guidelines that require serology and duodenal biopsy. One third of subjects recognized a poor compliance with GFD. Those with a strict adherence to it had a more favorable clinical course. However, 25% > did not experience a clinical improvement despite a strict GFD, a finding which requires further study.

Visual cortex responses reflect temporal structure of continuous quasi-rhythmic sensory stimulation.

PubMed

Keitel, Christian; Thut, Gregor; Gross, Joachim

2017-02-01

Neural processing of dynamic continuous visual input, and cognitive influences thereon, are frequently studied in paradigms employing strictly rhythmic stimulation. However, the temporal structure of natural stimuli is hardly ever fully rhythmic but possesses certain spectral bandwidths (e.g. lip movements in speech, gestures). Examining periodic brain responses elicited by strictly rhythmic stimulation might thus represent ideal, yet isolated cases. Here, we tested how the visual system reflects quasi-rhythmic stimulation with frequencies continuously varying within ranges of classical theta (4-7Hz), alpha (8-13Hz) and beta bands (14-20Hz) using EEG. Our findings substantiate a systematic and sustained neural phase-locking to stimulation in all three frequency ranges. Further, we found that allocation of spatial attention enhances EEG-stimulus locking to theta- and alpha-band stimulation. Our results bridge recent findings regarding phase locking ("entrainment") to quasi-rhythmic visual input and "frequency-tagging" experiments employing strictly rhythmic stimulation. We propose that sustained EEG-stimulus locking can be considered as a continuous neural signature of processing dynamic sensory input in early visual cortices. Accordingly, EEG-stimulus locking serves to trace the temporal evolution of rhythmic as well as quasi-rhythmic visual input and is subject to attentional bias. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Use of Interactive Methods in the Educational Process of the Higher Education Institution

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kutbiddinova, Rimma A.; Eromasova, Aleksandr? A.; Romanova, Marina A.

2016-01-01

The modernization of higher education and the transition to the new Federal Education Standards require a higher quality training of the graduates. The training of highly qualified specialists must meet strict requirements: a high level of professional competence, the developed communication skills, the ability to predict the results of one's own…

Performance Requirements in Need-Based Aid: What Roles Do They Serve, and Do They Work? Research Brief

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Scott-Clayton, Judith; Schudde, Lauren

2017-01-01

Satisfactory academic progress (SAP) requirements have existed in some form in the federal student aid programs for nearly 40 years--and have become increasingly strict--yet only limited research exists regarding their motivations and consequences. In this brief, the authors discuss two recent CAPSEE studies they conducted that examine the…

Guidelines for the Utilization of Composite Materials in Oxygen Storage Tanks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Davis, Samuel E.; Herald, Stephen

2006-01-01

Space travel is inherently dangerous and, currently, quite expensive. NASA has always done everything possible to minimize the risk associated with the materials chosen for space travel applications by requiring that all materials associated with NASA programs meet the strict requirements established by NASA testing standard NASA-STD-600 1 Flammability, Odor, Offgassing, and Compatibility Requirements and Test Procedures for Materials in Environments that Support Combustion. NASA also has the need to develop lighter weight structural materials that will allow more payload weight to be carried into space. NASA is utilizing composite materials inside the orbiter to lighten the overall weight, but has not considered composite materials for oxygen tanks because of the inherent incompatibility of composite materials with atomic oxygen. This presentation will focus on how oxygen tanks can be built from composite materials. Details will be provided for the design and compatibility testing techniques that will be utilized to create a new NASA standard, NASA-HDBK-6018, which will serve as the starting point for the design of oxygen tanks made from composite materials.

How to find the optimal partner--studies of snurportin 1 interactions with U snRNA 5' TMG-cap analogues containing modified 2-amino group of 7-methylguanosine.

PubMed

Piecyk, Karolina; Niedzwiecka, Anna; Ferenc-Mrozek, Aleksandra; Lukaszewicz, Maciej; Darzynkiewicz, Edward; Jankowska-Anyszka, Marzena

2015-08-01

Snurportin 1 is an adaptor protein that mediates the active nuclear import of uridine-rich small nuclear RNAs (U snRNA) by the importin-β receptor pathway. Its cellular activity influences the overall transport yield of small ribonucleoprotein complexes containing N(2),N(2),7-trimethylguanosine (TMG) capped U snRNA. So far little is still known about structural requirements related to molecular recognition of the trimethylguanosine moiety by snurportin in solution. Since these interactions are of a great biomedical importance, we synthesized a series of new 7-methylguanosine cap analogues with extended substituents at the exocyclic 2-amino group to gain a deeper insight into how the TMG-cap is adapted into the snurportin cap-binding pocket. Prepared chemical tools were applied in binding assays using emission spectroscopy. Surprisingly, our results revealed strict selectivity of snurportin towards the TMG-cap structure that relied mainly on its structural stiffness and compactness. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Physician's Role in Ethical Decisions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chevalier, Robert B.

1977-01-01

Many medical issues today require ethical as well as strictly medical decisions. Described is the need for the inclusion of medical ethics in the schools, beginning with science ethics in the secondary level and continuing through medical school. (MA)

The routing, modulation level, and spectrum allocation algorithm in the virtual optical network mapping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yunyun; Li, Hui; Liu, Yuze; Ji, Yuefeng; Li, Hongfa

2017-10-01

With the development of large video services and cloud computing, the network is increasingly in the form of services. In SDON, the SDN controller holds the underlying physical resource information, thus allocating the appropriate resources and bandwidth to the VON service. However, for some services that require extremely strict QoT (quality of transmission), the shortest distance path algorithm is often unable to meet the requirements because it does not take the link spectrum resources into account. And in accordance with the choice of the most unoccupied links, there may be more spectrum fragments. So here we propose a new RMLSA (the routing, modulation Level, and spectrum allocation) algorithm to reduce the blocking probability. The results show about 40% less blocking probability than the shortest-distance algorithm and the minimum usage of the spectrum priority algorithm. This algorithm is used to satisfy strict request of QoT for demands.

A Selfish Constraint Satisfaction Genetic Algorithms for Planning a Long-Distance Transportation Network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Onoyama, Takashi; Maekawa, Takuya; Kubota, Sen; Tsuruta, Setuso; Komoda, Norihisa

To build a cooperative logistics network covering multiple enterprises, a planning method that can build a long-distance transportation network is required. Many strict constraints are imposed on this type of problem. To solve these strict-constraint problems, a selfish constraint satisfaction genetic algorithm (GA) is proposed. In this GA, each gene of an individual satisfies only its constraint selfishly, disregarding the constraints of other genes in the same individuals. Moreover, a constraint pre-checking method is also applied to improve the GA convergence speed. The experimental result shows the proposed method can obtain an accurate solution in a practical response time.

Reciprocal Influence of Protein Domains in the Cold-Adapted Acyl Aminoacyl Peptidase from Sporosarcina psychrophila

PubMed Central

Parravicini, Federica; Natalello, Antonino; Papaleo, Elena; De Gioia, Luca; Doglia, Silvia Maria; Lotti, Marina; Brocca, Stefania

2013-01-01

Acyl aminoacyl peptidases are two-domain proteins composed by a C-terminal catalytic α/β-hydrolase domain and by an N-terminal β-propeller domain connected through a structural element that is at the N-terminus in sequence but participates in the 3D structure of the C-domain. We investigated about the structural and functional interplay between the two domains and the bridge structure (in this case a single helix named α1-helix) in the cold-adapted enzyme from Sporosarcina psychrophila (SpAAP) using both protein variants in which entire domains were deleted and proteins carrying substitutions in the α1-helix. We found that in this enzyme the inter-domain connection dramatically affects the stability of both the whole enzyme and the β-propeller. The α1-helix is required for the stability of the intact protein, as in other enzymes of the same family; however in this psychrophilic enzyme only, it destabilizes the isolated β-propeller. A single charged residue (E10) in the α1-helix plays a major role for the stability of the whole structure. Overall, a strict interaction of the SpAAP domains seems to be mandatory for the preservation of their reciprocal structural integrity and may witness their co-evolution. PMID:23457536

Reciprocal influence of protein domains in the cold-adapted acyl aminoacyl peptidase from Sporosarcina psychrophila.

PubMed

Parravicini, Federica; Natalello, Antonino; Papaleo, Elena; De Gioia, Luca; Doglia, Silvia Maria; Lotti, Marina; Brocca, Stefania

2013-01-01

Acyl aminoacyl peptidases are two-domain proteins composed by a C-terminal catalytic α/β-hydrolase domain and by an N-terminal β-propeller domain connected through a structural element that is at the N-terminus in sequence but participates in the 3D structure of the C-domain. We investigated about the structural and functional interplay between the two domains and the bridge structure (in this case a single helix named α1-helix) in the cold-adapted enzyme from Sporosarcina psychrophila (SpAAP) using both protein variants in which entire domains were deleted and proteins carrying substitutions in the α1-helix. We found that in this enzyme the inter-domain connection dramatically affects the stability of both the whole enzyme and the β-propeller. The α1-helix is required for the stability of the intact protein, as in other enzymes of the same family; however in this psychrophilic enzyme only, it destabilizes the isolated β-propeller. A single charged residue (E10) in the α1-helix plays a major role for the stability of the whole structure. Overall, a strict interaction of the SpAAP domains seems to be mandatory for the preservation of their reciprocal structural integrity and may witness their co-evolution.

Integrating mechanisms of visual guidance in naturalistic language production.

PubMed

Coco, Moreno I; Keller, Frank

2015-05-01

Situated language production requires the integration of visual attention and linguistic processing. Previous work has not conclusively disentangled the role of perceptual scene information and structural sentence information in guiding visual attention. In this paper, we present an eye-tracking study that demonstrates that three types of guidance, perceptual, conceptual, and structural, interact to control visual attention. In a cued language production experiment, we manipulate perceptual (scene clutter) and conceptual guidance (cue animacy) and measure structural guidance (syntactic complexity of the utterance). Analysis of the time course of language production, before and during speech, reveals that all three forms of guidance affect the complexity of visual responses, quantified in terms of the entropy of attentional landscapes and the turbulence of scan patterns, especially during speech. We find that perceptual and conceptual guidance mediate the distribution of attention in the scene, whereas structural guidance closely relates to scan pattern complexity. Furthermore, the eye-voice span of the cued object and its perceptual competitor are similar; its latency mediated by both perceptual and structural guidance. These results rule out a strict interpretation of structural guidance as the single dominant form of visual guidance in situated language production. Rather, the phase of the task and the associated demands of cross-modal cognitive processing determine the mechanisms that guide attention.

ESTIMATION OF PHYSIOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF ORGANIC COMPOUNDS BY SPARC

EPA Science Inventory

The computer program SPARC (SPARC Performs Automated Reasoning in Chemistry) has been under development for several years to estimate physical properties and chemical reactivity parameters of organic compounds strictly from molecular structure. SPARC uses computational algorithms...

Dizziness in Europe: from licensed fitness to drive to licence without fitness to drive.

PubMed

Huppert, Doreen; Straumann, Dominik; Magnusson, Mans; Pyykkö, Ilmari; Brandt, Thomas

2018-03-13

A common European Community driving licence was established in 1980. However, there are major differences among the countries as regards medical conditions that legally affect driving ability. This article discusses various assessment guidelines for dizzy patients. These range from a total absence of specified binding requirements in Finland or regulations open to clinical interpretation in Switzerland, to inappropriately strict regulations in Germany. We focus on requirements for patients with vestibular disorders in Germany which have been in force since 2014. These guidelines stipulate that for group 1 driving licence (private cars < 3.5 t, motorbikes): (1) patients with Menière's disease (attacks without prodromes) must have had no attacks for 2 years before it is possible to drive again. (2) Patients with vestibular migraine without prodromes must not have had any attacks for 3 years. For a group 1 and group 2 driving licence ("professional driver"): (3) patients with bilateral vestibulopathy as a rule are considered to have a driving disability. Similarly, strict restrictions have been formulated for ocular motor disorders such as downbeat and upbeat nystagmus and for patients with functional (psychosomatic) forms of dizziness such as phobic postural vertigo. The authors represent a working group of the European Dizzynet focusing on the topic "fitness to drive with vertigo and balance disorders". They agree that European guidelines must be revised and harmonized, for some are too strict and the required dizziness-free intervals are too long; others must be revised, for they are too lax. A common European standard is needed.

Mutation at a strictly conserved, active site tyrosine in the copper amine oxidase leads to uncontrolled oxygenase activity.

PubMed

Chen, Zhi-Wei; Datta, Saumen; Dubois, Jennifer L; Klinman, Judith P; Mathews, F Scott

2010-08-31

The copper amine oxidases carry out two copper-dependent processes: production of their own redox-active cofactor (2,4,5-trihydroxyphenylalanine quinone, TPQ) and the subsequent oxidative deamination of substrate amines. Because the same active site pocket must facilitate both reactions, individual active site residues may serve multiple roles. We have examined the roles of a strictly conserved active site tyrosine Y305 in the copper amine oxidase from Hansenula polymorpha kinetically, spetroscopically (Dubois and Klinman (2006) Biochemistry 45, 3178), and, in the present work, structurally. While the Y305A enzyme is almost identical to the wild type, a novel, highly oxygenated species replaces TPQ in the Y305F active sites. This new structure not only provides the first direct detection of peroxy intermediates in cofactor biogenesis but also indicates the critical control of oxidation chemistry that can be conferred by a single active site residue.

Cluster Synchronization of Diffusively Coupled Nonlinear Systems: A Contraction-Based Approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aminzare, Zahra; Dey, Biswadip; Davison, Elizabeth N.; Leonard, Naomi Ehrich

2018-04-01

Finding the conditions that foster synchronization in networked nonlinear systems is critical to understanding a wide range of biological and mechanical systems. However, the conditions proved in the literature for synchronization in nonlinear systems with linear coupling, such as has been used to model neuronal networks, are in general not strict enough to accurately determine the system behavior. We leverage contraction theory to derive new sufficient conditions for cluster synchronization in terms of the network structure, for a network where the intrinsic nonlinear dynamics of each node may differ. Our result requires that network connections satisfy a cluster-input-equivalence condition, and we explore the influence of this requirement on network dynamics. For application to networks of nodes with FitzHugh-Nagumo dynamics, we show that our new sufficient condition is tighter than those found in previous analyses that used smooth or nonsmooth Lyapunov functions. Improving the analytical conditions for when cluster synchronization will occur based on network configuration is a significant step toward facilitating understanding and control of complex networked systems.

Repressive LTR Nucleosome Positioning by the BAF Complex Is Required for HIV Latency

PubMed Central

Hakre, Shweta; Moshkin, Yuri; Verdin, Eric; Mahmoudi, Tokameh

2011-01-01

Persistence of a reservoir of latently infected memory T cells provides a barrier to HIV eradication in treated patients. Several reports have implicated the involvement of SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complexes in restricting early steps in HIV infection, in coupling the processes of integration and remodeling, and in promoter/LTR transcription activation and repression. However, the mechanism behind the seemingly contradictory involvement of SWI/SNF in the HIV life cycle remains unclear. Here we addressed the role of SWI/SNF in regulation of the latent HIV LTR before and after transcriptional activation. We determined the predicted nucleosome affinity of the LTR sequence and found a striking reverse correlation when compared to the strictly positioned in vivo LTR nucleosomal structure; sequences encompassing the DNase hypersensitive regions displayed the highest nucleosome affinity, while the strictly positioned nucleosomes displayed lower affinity for nucleosome formation. To examine the mechanism behind this reverse correlation, we used a combinatorial approach to determine DNA accessibility, histone occupancy, and the unique recruitment and requirement of BAF and PBAF, two functionally distinct subclasses of SWI/SNF at the LTR of HIV-infected cells before and after activation. We find that establishment and maintenance of HIV latency requires BAF, which removes a preferred nucleosome from DHS1 to position the repressive nucleosome-1 over energetically sub-optimal sequences. Depletion of BAF resulted in de-repression of HIV latency concomitant with a dramatic alteration in the LTR nucleosome profile as determined by high resolution MNase nucleosomal mapping. Upon activation, BAF was lost from the HIV promoter, while PBAF was selectively recruited by acetylated Tat to facilitate LTR transcription. Thus BAF and PBAF, recruited during different stages of the HIV life cycle, display opposing function on the HIV promoter. Our data point to the ATP-dependent BRG1 component of BAF as a putative therapeutic target to deplete the latent reservoir in patients. PMID:22140357

Repressive LTR nucleosome positioning by the BAF complex is required for HIV latency.

PubMed

Rafati, Haleh; Parra, Maribel; Hakre, Shweta; Moshkin, Yuri; Verdin, Eric; Mahmoudi, Tokameh

2011-11-01

Persistence of a reservoir of latently infected memory T cells provides a barrier to HIV eradication in treated patients. Several reports have implicated the involvement of SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complexes in restricting early steps in HIV infection, in coupling the processes of integration and remodeling, and in promoter/LTR transcription activation and repression. However, the mechanism behind the seemingly contradictory involvement of SWI/SNF in the HIV life cycle remains unclear. Here we addressed the role of SWI/SNF in regulation of the latent HIV LTR before and after transcriptional activation. We determined the predicted nucleosome affinity of the LTR sequence and found a striking reverse correlation when compared to the strictly positioned in vivo LTR nucleosomal structure; sequences encompassing the DNase hypersensitive regions displayed the highest nucleosome affinity, while the strictly positioned nucleosomes displayed lower affinity for nucleosome formation. To examine the mechanism behind this reverse correlation, we used a combinatorial approach to determine DNA accessibility, histone occupancy, and the unique recruitment and requirement of BAF and PBAF, two functionally distinct subclasses of SWI/SNF at the LTR of HIV-infected cells before and after activation. We find that establishment and maintenance of HIV latency requires BAF, which removes a preferred nucleosome from DHS1 to position the repressive nucleosome-1 over energetically sub-optimal sequences. Depletion of BAF resulted in de-repression of HIV latency concomitant with a dramatic alteration in the LTR nucleosome profile as determined by high resolution MNase nucleosomal mapping. Upon activation, BAF was lost from the HIV promoter, while PBAF was selectively recruited by acetylated Tat to facilitate LTR transcription. Thus BAF and PBAF, recruited during different stages of the HIV life cycle, display opposing function on the HIV promoter. Our data point to the ATP-dependent BRG1 component of BAF as a putative therapeutic target to deplete the latent reservoir in patients.

A system dynamics model of China's electric power structure adjustment with constraints of PM10 emission reduction.

PubMed

Guo, Xiaopeng; Ren, Dongfang; Guo, Xiaodan

2018-06-01

Recently, Chinese state environmental protection administration has brought out several PM10 reduction policies to control the coal consumption strictly and promote the adjustment of power structure. Under this new policy environment, a suitable analysis method is required to simulate the upcoming major shift of China's electric power structure. Firstly, a complete system dynamics model is built to simulate China's evolution path of power structure with constraints of PM10 reduction considering both technical and economical factors. Secondly, scenario analyses are conducted under different clean-power capacity growth rates to seek applicable policy guidance for PM10 reduction. The results suggest the following conclusions. (1) The proportion of thermal power installed capacity will decrease to 67% in 2018 with a dropping speed, and there will be an accelerated decline in 2023-2032. (2) The system dynamics model can effectively simulate the implementation of the policy, for example, the proportion of coal consumption in the forecast model is 63.3% (the accuracy rate is 95.2%), below policy target 65% in 2017. (3) China should promote clean power generation such as nuclear power to meet PM10 reduction target.

Ferroxidase-Mediated Iron Oxide Biomineralization: Novel Pathways to Multifunctional Nanoparticles.

PubMed

Zeth, Kornelius; Hoiczyk, Egbert; Okuda, Mitsuhiro

2016-02-01

Iron oxide biomineralization occurs in all living organisms and typically involves protein compartments ranging from 5 to 100nm in size. The smallest iron-oxo particles are formed inside dodecameric Dps protein cages, while the structurally related ferritin compartments consist of twice as many identical protein subunits. The largest known compartments are encapsulins, icosahedra made of up to 180 protein subunits that harbor additional ferritin-like proteins in their interior. The formation of iron-oxo particles in all these compartments requires a series of steps including recruitment of iron, translocation, oxidation, nucleation, and storage, that are mediated by ferroxidase centers. Thus, compartmentalized iron oxide biomineralization yields uniform nanoparticles strictly determined by the sizes of the compartments, allowing customization for highly diverse nanotechnological applications. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Paranasal sinuses and nasopharynx CT and MRI.

PubMed

Sievers, K W; Greess, H; Baum, U; Dobritz, M; Lenz, M

2000-03-01

Neoplastic disease of the nose, paranasal sinuses, the nasopharynx and the parapharyngeal space requires thorough assessment of location and extent in order to plan appropriate treatment. CT allows the deep soft tissue planes to be evaluated and provides a complement to the physical examination. It is especially helpful in regions involving thin bony structures (paranasal sinuses, orbita); here CT performs better than MRI. MRI possesses many advantages over other imaging modalities caused by its excellent tissue contrast. In evaluating regions involving predominantly soft tissue structures (ec nasopharynx and parapharyngeal space) MRI is superior to CT. The possibility to obtain strictly consecutive volume data sets with spiral CT or 3D MRI offer excellent perspectives to visualize the data via 2D or 3D postprocessing. Because head and neck tumors reside in a complex area, having a 3D model of the anatomical features may assist in the delineation of pathology. Data sets may be transferred directly into computer systems and thus be used in computer assisted surgery.

DDB2 promotes chromatin decondensation at UV-induced DNA damage

PubMed Central

Lindh, Michael; Acs, Klara; Vrouwe, Mischa G.; Pines, Alex; van Attikum, Haico; Mullenders, Leon H.

2012-01-01

Nucleotide excision repair (NER) is the principal pathway that removes helix-distorting deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage from the mammalian genome. Recognition of DNA lesions by xeroderma pigmentosum group C (XPC) protein in chromatin is stimulated by the damaged DNA-binding protein 2 (DDB2), which is part of a CUL4A–RING ubiquitin ligase (CRL4) complex. In this paper, we report a new function of DDB2 in modulating chromatin structure at DNA lesions. We show that DDB2 elicits unfolding of large-scale chromatin structure independently of the CRL4 ubiquitin ligase complex. Our data reveal a marked adenosine triphosphate (ATP)–dependent reduction in the density of core histones in chromatin containing UV-induced DNA lesions, which strictly required functional DDB2 and involved the activity of poly(adenosine diphosphate [ADP]–ribose) polymerase 1. Finally, we show that lesion recognition by XPC, but not DDB2, was strongly reduced in ATP-depleted cells and was regulated by the steady-state levels of poly(ADP-ribose) chains. PMID:22492724

Basic science and surgical treatment options for articular cartilage injuries of the knee.

PubMed

Tetteh, Elizabeth S; Bajaj, Sarvottam; Ghodadra, Neil S

2012-03-01

The complex structure of articular cartilage allows for diverse knee function throughout range of motion and weight bearing. However, disruption to the structural integrity of the articular surface can cause significant morbidity. Due to an inherently poor regenerative capacity, articular cartilage defects present a treatment challenge for physicians and therapists. For many patients, a trial of nonsurgical treatment options is paramount prior to surgical intervention. In instances of failed conservative treatment, patients can undergo an array of palliative, restorative, or reparative surgical procedures to treat these lesions. Palliative methods include debridement and lavage, while restorative techniques include marrow stimulation. For larger lesions involving subchondral bone, reparative procedures such as osteochondral grafting or autologous chondrocyte implantation are considered. Clinical success not only depends on the surgical techniques but also requires strict adherence to rehabilitation guidelines. The purpose of this article is to review the basic science of articular cartilage and to provide an overview of the procedures currently performed at our institution for patients presenting with symptomatic cartilage lesions.

Sulphur shuttling across a chaperone during molybdenum cofactor maturation.

PubMed

Arnoux, Pascal; Ruppelt, Christian; Oudouhou, Flore; Lavergne, Jérôme; Siponen, Marina I; Toci, René; Mendel, Ralf R; Bittner, Florian; Pignol, David; Magalon, Axel; Walburger, Anne

2015-02-04

Formate dehydrogenases (FDHs) are of interest as they are natural catalysts that sequester atmospheric CO2, generating reduced carbon compounds with possible uses as fuel. FDHs activity in Escherichia coli strictly requires the sulphurtransferase EcFdhD, which likely transfers sulphur from IscS to the molybdenum cofactor (Mo-bisPGD) of FDHs. Here we show that EcFdhD binds Mo-bisPGD in vivo and has submicromolar affinity for GDP-used as a surrogate of the molybdenum cofactor's nucleotide moieties. The crystal structure of EcFdhD in complex with GDP shows two symmetrical binding sites located on the same face of the dimer. These binding sites are connected via a tunnel-like cavity to the opposite face of the dimer where two dynamic loops, each harbouring two functionally important cysteine residues, are present. On the basis of structure-guided mutagenesis, we propose a model for the sulphuration mechanism of Mo-bisPGD where the sulphur atom shuttles across the chaperone dimer.

A robust nonlinear filter for image restoration.

PubMed

Koivunen, V

1995-01-01

A class of nonlinear regression filters based on robust estimation theory is introduced. The goal of the filtering is to recover a high-quality image from degraded observations. Models for desired image structures and contaminating processes are employed, but deviations from strict assumptions are allowed since the assumptions on signal and noise are typically only approximately true. The robustness of filters is usually addressed only in a distributional sense, i.e., the actual error distribution deviates from the nominal one. In this paper, the robustness is considered in a broad sense since the outliers may also be due to inappropriate signal model, or there may be more than one statistical population present in the processing window, causing biased estimates. Two filtering algorithms minimizing a least trimmed squares criterion are provided. The design of the filters is simple since no scale parameters or context-dependent threshold values are required. Experimental results using both real and simulated data are presented. The filters effectively attenuate both impulsive and nonimpulsive noise while recovering the signal structure and preserving interesting details.

Sulphur shuttling across a chaperone during molybdenum cofactor maturation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arnoux, Pascal; Ruppelt, Christian; Oudouhou, Flore; Lavergne, Jérôme; Siponen, Marina I.; Toci, René; Mendel, Ralf R.; Bittner, Florian; Pignol, David; Magalon, Axel; Walburger, Anne

2015-02-01

Formate dehydrogenases (FDHs) are of interest as they are natural catalysts that sequester atmospheric CO2, generating reduced carbon compounds with possible uses as fuel. FDHs activity in Escherichia coli strictly requires the sulphurtransferase EcFdhD, which likely transfers sulphur from IscS to the molybdenum cofactor (Mo-bisPGD) of FDHs. Here we show that EcFdhD binds Mo-bisPGD in vivo and has submicromolar affinity for GDP—used as a surrogate of the molybdenum cofactor’s nucleotide moieties. The crystal structure of EcFdhD in complex with GDP shows two symmetrical binding sites located on the same face of the dimer. These binding sites are connected via a tunnel-like cavity to the opposite face of the dimer where two dynamic loops, each harbouring two functionally important cysteine residues, are present. On the basis of structure-guided mutagenesis, we propose a model for the sulphuration mechanism of Mo-bisPGD where the sulphur atom shuttles across the chaperone dimer.

25 CFR 900.46 - What requirements are imposed upon the Secretary for financial management by these standards?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... THE INDIAN SELF-DETERMINATION AND EDUCATION ASSISTANCE ACT Standards for Tribal or Tribal Organization... the Indian tribe or tribal organization in strict compliance with the self-determination contract and...

25 CFR 900.46 - What requirements are imposed upon the Secretary for financial management by these standards?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... THE INDIAN SELF-DETERMINATION AND EDUCATION ASSISTANCE ACT Standards for Tribal or Tribal Organization... the Indian tribe or tribal organization in strict compliance with the self-determination contract and...

25 CFR 900.46 - What requirements are imposed upon the Secretary for financial management by these standards?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... THE INDIAN SELF-DETERMINATION AND EDUCATION ASSISTANCE ACT Standards for Tribal or Tribal Organization... the Indian tribe or tribal organization in strict compliance with the self-determination contract and...

25 CFR 900.46 - What requirements are imposed upon the Secretary for financial management by these standards?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... THE INDIAN SELF-DETERMINATION AND EDUCATION ASSISTANCE ACT Standards for Tribal or Tribal Organization... the Indian tribe or tribal organization in strict compliance with the self-determination contract and...

25 CFR 900.46 - What requirements are imposed upon the Secretary for financial management by these standards?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... THE INDIAN SELF-DETERMINATION AND EDUCATION ASSISTANCE ACT Standards for Tribal or Tribal Organization... the Indian tribe or tribal organization in strict compliance with the self-determination contract and...

7 CFR 987.112a - Grade, size, and container requirements for each outlet category.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... supplies intended strictly for medical purposes. (3) Dates of any variety identified as “Export—Mexico” and inspected and certified as at least meeting the requirements of U.S. Grade C may be exported only to Mexico. No dates shall be exported to Mexico unless the handler certifies to the Committee and the U.S...

Structural Requirement in Clostridium perfringens Collagenase mRNA 5′ Leader Sequence for Translational Induction through Small RNA-mRNA Base Pairing

PubMed Central

Nomura, Nobuhiko; Nakamura, Kouji

2013-01-01

The Gram-positive anaerobic bacterium Clostridium perfringens is pathogenic to humans and animals, and the production of its toxins is strictly regulated during the exponential phase. We recently found that the 5′ leader sequence of the colA transcript encoding collagenase, which is a major toxin of this organism, is processed and stabilized in the presence of the small RNA VR-RNA. The primary colA 5′-untranslated region (5′UTR) forms a long stem-loop structure containing an internal bulge and masks its own ribosomal binding site. Here we found that VR-RNA directly regulates colA expression through base pairing with colA mRNA in vivo. However, when the internal bulge structure was closed by point mutations in colA mRNA, translation ceased despite the presence of VR-RNA. In addition, a mutation disrupting the colA stem-loop structure induced mRNA processing and ColA-FLAG translational activation in the absence of VR-RNA, indicating that the stem-loop and internal bulge structure of the colA 5′ leader sequence is important for regulation by VR-RNA. On the other hand, processing was required for maximal ColA expression but was not essential for VR-RNA-dependent colA regulation. Finally, colA processing and translational activation were induced at a high temperature without VR-RNA. These results suggest that inhibition of the colA 5′ leader structure through base pairing is the primary role of VR-RNA in colA regulation and that the colA 5′ leader structure is a possible thermosensor. PMID:23585542

Stabilization of the predominant disease-causing aldolase variant (A149P) with zwitterionic osmolytes.

PubMed

Stopa, Jack D; Chandani, Sushil; Tolan, Dean R

2011-02-08

Hereditary fructose intolerance (HFI) is a disease of carbohydrate metabolism that can result in hyperuricemia, hypoglycemia, liver and kidney failure, coma, and death. Currently, the only treatment for HFI is a strict fructose-free diet. HFI arises from aldolase B deficiency, and the most predominant HFI mutation is an alanine to proline substitution at position 149 (A149P). The resulting aldolase B with the A149P substitution (AP-aldolase) has activity that is <100-fold that of the wild type. The X-ray crystal structure of AP-aldolase at both 4 and 18 °C reveals disordered adjacent loops of the (α/β)(8) fold centered around the substitution, which leads to a dimeric structure as opposed to the wild-type tetramer. The effects of osmolytes were tested for restoration of structure and function. An initial screen of osmolytes (glycerol, sucrose, polyethylene glycol, 2,4-methylpentanediol, glutamic acid, arginine, glycine, proline, betaine, sarcosine, and trimethylamine N-oxide) reveals that glycine, along with similarly structured compounds, betaine and sarcosine, protects AP-aldolase structure and activity from thermal inactivation. The concentration and functional moieties required for thermal protection show a zwitterion requirement. The effects of osmolytes in restoring structure and function of AP-aldolase are described. Testing of zwitterionic osmolytes of increasing size and decreasing fractional polar surface area suggests that osmolyte-mediated AP-aldolase stabilization occurs neither primarily through excluded volume effects nor through transfer free energy effects. These data suggest that AP-aldolase is stabilized by binding to the native structure, and they provide a foundation for developing stabilizing compounds for potential therapeutics for HFI.

EPICS as a MARTe Configuration Environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Valcarcel, Daniel F.; Barbalace, Antonio; Neto, André; Duarte, André S.; Alves, Diogo; Carvalho, Bernardo B.; Carvalho, Pedro J.; Sousa, Jorge; Fernandes, Horácio; Goncalves, Bruno; Sartori, Filippo; Manduchi, Gabriele

2011-08-01

The Multithreaded Application Real-Time executor (MARTe) software provides an environment for the hard real-time execution of codes while leveraging a standardized algorithm development process. The Experimental Physics and Industrial Control System (EPICS) software allows the deployment and remote monitoring of networked control systems. Channel Access (CA) is the protocol that enables the communication between EPICS distributed components. It allows to set and monitor process variables across the network belonging to different systems. The COntrol and Data Acquisition and Communication (CODAC) system for the ITER Tokamak will be EPICS based and will be used to monitor and live configure the plant controllers. The reconfiguration capability in a hard real-time system requires strict latencies from the request to the actuation and it is a key element in the design of the distributed control algorithm. Presently, MARTe and its objects are configured using a well-defined structured language. After each configuration, all objects are destroyed and the system rebuilt, following the strong hard real-time rule that a real-time system in online mode must behave in a strictly deterministic fashion. This paper presents the design and considerations to use MARTe as a plant controller and enable it to be EPICS monitorable and configurable without disturbing the execution at any time, in particular during a plasma discharge. The solutions designed for this will be presented and discussed.

A novel subviral agent associated with a geminivirus: The first report of a DNA satellite

PubMed Central

Dry, Ian B.; Krake, Leslie R.; Rigden, Justin E.; Rezaian, M. Ali

1997-01-01

Numerous plant RNA viruses have associated with them satellite (sat) RNAs that have little or no nucleotide sequence similarity to either the viral or host genomes but are completely dependent on the helper virus for replication. We report here on the discovery of a 682-nt circular DNA satellite associated with tomato leaf curl geminivirus (TLCV) infection in northern Australia. This is the first demonstration that satellite molecules are not limited to RNA viral systems. The DNA satellite (TLCV sat-DNA) is strictly dependent for replication on the helper virus replication-associated protein and is encapsidated by TLCV coat protein. It has no significant open reading frames, and it shows no significant sequence similarity to the 2766-nt helper-virus genome except for two short motifs present in separate putative stem–loop structures: TAATATTAC, which is universally conserved in all geminiviruses, and AATCGGTGTC, which is identical to a putative replication-associated protein binding motif in TLCV. Replication of TLCV sat-DNA is also supported by other taxonomically distinct geminiviruses, including tomato yellow leaf curl virus, African cassava mosaic virus, and beet curly top virus. Therefore, this unique DNA satellite does not appear to strictly conform with the requirements that dictate the specificity of interaction of geminiviral replication-associated proteins with their cognate origins as predicted by the current model of geminivirus replication. PMID:9192696

English Validation of the Parental Socialization Scale—ESPA29

PubMed Central

Martínez, Isabel; Cruise, Edie; García, Óscar F.; Murgui, Sergio

2017-01-01

Parenting styles have traditionally been studied following the classical two-dimensional orthogonal model of parental socialization. The Parental Socialization Scale ESPA29 is used to measure the four styles of parental socialization through the acceptance/involvement and strictness/imposition dimensions. The ESPA29 scale is a developmentally appropriate measure of parenting styles, which has been validated in several languages including Spanish, Italian, and Brazilian Portuguese. In this study, the English translation of the ESPA29 was evaluated. The objective of the work is to test the ESPA29’s structure of parenting practices with a United States sample measuring parenting practices using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The scores of fathers’ and mothers’ behavioral practices toward their children were obtained for a sample of 911 United States adolescents between 14 and 18 years of age. First, the total sample was split and a principal components analysis with varimax rotation was carried out with one of the two halves. EFA showed a two-factor structure fully congruent with the theoretical model for mothers’ and fathers’ scores. Next, a CFA was calculated on the second half by using the factor structure obtained in the previous EFA. The CFA replicated the two-factor structure with appropriate fit index. The seven parenting practices that were measured loaded appropriately on the acceptance/involvement and strictness/imposition dimensions. Then, the multigroup analysis between girls and boys showed equal loading in the factors and equal covariation between the acceptance/involvement and the strictness/imposition dimensions. Additionally, the two dimensions of the ESPA29 scale were related to self-esteem in order to obtain an external validity index. The findings confirm the invariant structure of the ESPA29 was in the United States and their equivalence in both fathers’ and mothers’ scores. These findings validate the instrument and confirm its applicability in cross-cultural research on parenting practices and child adjustment. PMID:28611711

English Validation of the Parental Socialization Scale-ESPA29.

PubMed

Martínez, Isabel; Cruise, Edie; García, Óscar F; Murgui, Sergio

2017-01-01

Parenting styles have traditionally been studied following the classical two-dimensional orthogonal model of parental socialization. The Parental Socialization Scale ESPA29 is used to measure the four styles of parental socialization through the acceptance/involvement and strictness/imposition dimensions. The ESPA29 scale is a developmentally appropriate measure of parenting styles, which has been validated in several languages including Spanish, Italian, and Brazilian Portuguese. In this study, the English translation of the ESPA29 was evaluated. The objective of the work is to test the ESPA29's structure of parenting practices with a United States sample measuring parenting practices using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The scores of fathers' and mothers' behavioral practices toward their children were obtained for a sample of 911 United States adolescents between 14 and 18 years of age. First, the total sample was split and a principal components analysis with varimax rotation was carried out with one of the two halves. EFA showed a two-factor structure fully congruent with the theoretical model for mothers' and fathers' scores. Next, a CFA was calculated on the second half by using the factor structure obtained in the previous EFA. The CFA replicated the two-factor structure with appropriate fit index. The seven parenting practices that were measured loaded appropriately on the acceptance/involvement and strictness/imposition dimensions. Then, the multigroup analysis between girls and boys showed equal loading in the factors and equal covariation between the acceptance/involvement and the strictness/imposition dimensions. Additionally, the two dimensions of the ESPA29 scale were related to self-esteem in order to obtain an external validity index. The findings confirm the invariant structure of the ESPA29 was in the United States and their equivalence in both fathers' and mothers' scores. These findings validate the instrument and confirm its applicability in cross-cultural research on parenting practices and child adjustment.

A survey of the removable prosthodontic clinical experience of dental students.

PubMed

Herring, H W; Stephens, A P

1982-08-01

A survey was sent to every dental school in the contiguous United States and Puerto Rico to solicit answers to 15 questions concerning various aspects of the prosthodontic education of the dental student. It was found that student clinical experiences differed significantly among the regions in terms of the total number of prosthodontic patients treated per student. Fees also differed significantly among the regions. No comment was made on the possible effects of denturism on either the type of patient or the number of removable prosthodontic patients available for treatment by dental students. Concerning the difficulty in securing the various types of patients, all categories were mentioned as being somewhat in short supply, although the greatest shortage was complete denture patients. There was no universally recognized solution to the shortage of patients, although lowering of fees and substitution of requirements were mentioned most frequently. Pertaining to the presence or absence of a strict requirement system, the vast majority of schools reported use of at least some type of requirement system, though not necessarily a strict one.

Adaptation of the Haloarcula hispanica CRISPR-Cas system to a purified virus strictly requires a priming process

PubMed Central

Li, Ming; Wang, Rui; Zhao, Dahe; Xiang, Hua

2014-01-01

The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)-Cas system mediates adaptive immunity against foreign nucleic acids in prokaryotes. However, efficient adaptation of a native CRISPR to purified viruses has only been observed for the type II-A system from a Streptococcus thermophilus industry strain, and rarely reported for laboratory strains. Here, we provide a second native system showing efficient adaptation. Infected by a newly isolated virus HHPV-2, Haloarcula hispanica type I-B CRISPR system acquired spacers discriminatively from viral sequences. Unexpectedly, in addition to Cas1, Cas2 and Cas4, this process also requires Cas3 and at least partial Cascade proteins, which are involved in interference and/or CRISPR RNA maturation. Intriguingly, a preexisting spacer partially matching a viral sequence is also required, and spacer acquisition from upstream and downstream sequences of its target sequence (i.e. priming protospacer) shows different strand bias. These evidences strongly indicate that adaptation in this system strictly requires a priming process. This requirement, if validated also true for other CRISPR systems as implied by our bioinformatic analysis, may help to explain failures to observe efficient adaptation to purified viruses in many laboratory strains, and the discrimination mechanism at the adaptation level that has confused scientists for years. PMID:24265226

The Problem of Democratizing Higher Education in Latin America.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bernheim, Carlos Tunnermann

1979-01-01

Investigates obstacles to democratization of higher education in Latin America including inflexible structures at primary and secondary levels, strict social stratification, financial problems of students from poor families, and lack of diversification in postsecondary institutions. (Author/DB)

ESTIMATION OF PHYSICAL PROPERTIES AND CHEMICAL REACTIVITY PARAMETERS OF ORGANIC COMPOUNDS

EPA Science Inventory

The computer program SPARC (Sparc Performs Automated Reasoning in Chemistry)has been under development for several years to estimate physical properties and chemical reactivity parameters of organic compounds strictly from molecular structure. SPARC uses computational algorithms ...

Dimensionality and measurement invariance in the Satisfaction with Life Scale in Norway.

PubMed

Clench-Aas, Jocelyne; Nes, Ragnhild Bang; Dalgard, Odd Steffen; Aarø, Leif Edvard

2011-10-01

Results from previous studies examining the dimensionality and factorial invariance of the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) are inconsistent and often based on small samples. This study examines the factorial structure and factorial invariance of the SWLS in a Norwegian sample. Confirmatory factor analysis (AMOS) was conducted to explore dimensionality and test for measurement invariance in factor structure, factor loadings, intercepts, and residual variance across gender and four age groups in a large (N = 4,984), nationally representative sample of Norwegian men and women (15-79 years). The data supported a modified unidimensional structure. Factor loadings could be constrained to equality between the sexes, indicating metric invariance between genders. Further testing indicated invariance also at the strong and strict levels, thus allowing analyses involving group means. The SWLS was shown to be sensitive to age, however, at the strong and strict levels of invariance testing. In conclusion, the results in this Norwegian study seem to confirm that a unidimensional structure is acceptable, but that a modified single-factor model with correlations between error terms of items 4 and 5 is preferred. Additionally, comparisons may be made between the genders. Caution must be exerted when comparing age groups.

7 CFR 58.807 - General construction, repair and installation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... Section 58.807 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) AGRICULTURAL MARKETING... AND STANDARDS UNDER THE AGRICULTURAL MARKETING ACT OF 1946 AND THE EGG PRODUCTS INSPECTION ACT... sanitary design principles, except where engineering requirements preclude strict adherence to such...

7 CFR 58.807 - General construction, repair and installation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... Section 58.807 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) AGRICULTURAL MARKETING... AND STANDARDS UNDER THE AGRICULTURAL MARKETING ACT OF 1946 AND THE EGG PRODUCTS INSPECTION ACT... sanitary design principles, except where engineering requirements preclude strict adherence to such...

7 CFR 58.807 - General construction, repair and installation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... Section 58.807 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) AGRICULTURAL MARKETING... AND STANDARDS UNDER THE AGRICULTURAL MARKETING ACT OF 1946 AND THE EGG PRODUCTS INSPECTION ACT... sanitary design principles, except where engineering requirements preclude strict adherence to such...

Prevalence of obesity and comorbid eating disorder behaviors in South Australia from 1995 to 2015.

PubMed

da Luz, F Q; Sainsbury, A; Mannan, H; Touyz, S; Mitchison, D; Hay, P

2017-07-01

Obesity and eating disorders are often studied and treated separately. While the increases in obesity prevalence are well known, examination of its co-occurrence with eating disorders, a problem also of public health concern, is important because eating disorder behaviors are known to contribute to obesity onset and maintenance, and vice versa. Data from large cross-sectional representative statewide community samples of people in the years of 1995 (n=3001), 2005 (n=3047) and 2015 (n=3005) were analyzed. Data were collected using a structured, self-report interview that included demographic, health-related, weight, height and eating disorder behavior questions. Eating behavior questions assessed binge eating, very strict dieting/fasting and purging, and were derived from the Eating Disorder Examination. Logistic regression analyses were conducted comparing prevalence of obesity, eating disorder behaviors and their co-occurrence. The prevalence of obesity or binge eating, or obesity with comorbid binge eating, each increased significantly from 1995 to 2005 (P<0.001 for each comparison) and continued to increase significantly from 2005 to 2015 (P<0.001 for each comparison). The highest increases from 1995 to 2015 were in the prevalence of obesity with comorbid binge eating (7.3-fold), or obesity with comorbid very strict dieting/fasting (11.5-fold). The prevalence of very strict dieting/fasting also increased significantly from 1995 to 2015 (3.8-fold). The prevalence of purging, or obesity with comorbid purging, did not change significantly from 1995 to 2015. There were statewide increases during the 20 years from 1995 to 2015 in the independent prevalence of obesity, binge eating and very strict dieting/fasting, and even higher increases in the prevalence of obesity with comorbid binge eating, and obesity with comorbid very strict dieting/fasting. These findings support the need for more integrated approaches to both the prevention and treatment of obesity and eating disorder behaviors, namely binge eating and very strict dieting/fasting.

Measurement invariance of the Illness Intrusiveness Ratings Scale's three-factor structure in men and women with cancer.

PubMed

Mah, Kenneth; Bezjak, Andrea; Loblaw, D Andrew; Gotowiec, Andrew; Devins, Gerald M

2011-02-01

Illness- and treatment-related disruptions to valued activities and interests (illness intrusiveness) are central to quality of life in chronic disease and are captured by three subscales of the Illness Intrusiveness Ratings Scale (IIRS): the Instrumental, Intimacy, and Relationships and Personal Development subscales. Using individual (CFA) and multisample confirmatory factor analyses (MSCFA), we evaluated measurement invariance of the IIRS's 3-factor structure in men and women with cancer. Men (n = 210) and women (n = 206) with 1 of 4 cancer diagnoses (gastrointestinal, head and neck, lymphoma, lung) recruited from outpatient clinics completed the IIRS. In the MSCFA, we applied an analysis of means and covariance structures approach to test increasingly stringent equality constraints on factor structure parameters to evaluate weak, strong, and strict measurement invariance of the 3-factor structure between men and women. Individual CFAs demonstrated fit of the hypothesized 3-factor structure for men and women, although more consistently for men. The 3-factor structure was superior to an alternative 1-factor structure. MSCFA results indicated that parameters of the 3-factor structure could be considered equivalent between the sexes up to the level of strong invariance. Strict invariance was not supported. Overall, IIRS scores can be interpreted similarly for men and women with cancer. Illness intrusiveness can be considered as important in the psychosocial adaptation of people with cancer as it is for people affected by other chronic conditions. (c) 2011 APA, all rights reserved

Similar age-dependent levothyroxine requirements of schoolchildren with congenital or acquired hypothyroidism.

PubMed

Perlsteyn, Martin; Deladoëy, Johnny; Van Vliet, Guy

2016-06-01

A recent study in children suggested that levothyroxine requirements are higher in congenital than in acquired hypothyroidism but did not match for severity of disease. Here, we studied only children with congenital or acquired hypothyroidism who had an undetectable fT4 at diagnosis. There were eight girls with congenital hypothyroidism due to athyreosis and eight girls with acquired hypothyroidism due to autoimmune thyroid disease. The median levothyroxine dose received at the most recent visit when serum TSH was <5.0 mU/L (at a median age of 7.86 and 14.29 years, respectively) was 3.2 mcg/kg/day in the former and 2.4 mcg/kg/day in the latter (N.S.). Combining both groups, the levothyroxine requirement decreased by 0.5 mcg/kg/day for every 4-year period. When strictly matched for severity of disease, levothyroxine requirements are similar in school-age children with congenital or acquired hypothyroidism and decrease with age. Thus, in congenital hypothyroidism treated early with high-dose levothyroxine, pituitary resistance to thyroxine feedback does not appear to be present at school age. • Pediatric studies unmatched for severity have suggested that levothyroxine requirements are higher in congenital than in acquired hypothyroidism. What is new: • When strictly matched for severity, levothyroxine requirements are similar in children with congenital or acquired hypothyroidism and decrease with age.

Optical Chopper Assembly for the Mars Observer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Allen, Terry

1993-01-01

This paper describes the Honeywell-developed Optical Chopper Assembly (OCA), a component of Mars Observer spacecraft's Pressure Modulator Infrared Radiometer (PMIRR) science experiment, which will map the Martian atmosphere during 1993 to 1995. The OCA is unique because of its constant accurate rotational speed, low electrical power consumption, and long-life requirements. These strict and demanding requirements were achieved by use of a number of novel approaches.

Edible Films: Why, What and How!

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Edible films are becoming more and more important in our life to protect nutritional food from deterioration. Due to strict FDA requirements components of agriculutral products, i.e., cabohydrates, fats and proteins are the most suitable components for this purpose. The chapter describes the histo...

7 CFR 1956.102 - Application of policies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

...) PROGRAM REGULATIONS (CONTINUED) DEBT SETTLEMENT Debt Settlement-Community and Business Programs § 1956.102 Application of policies. (a) General. If a debt is eligible for settlement, the debt settlement authorities of... in connection with debt settlement will adhere strictly to the authorizations, requirements, and...

7 CFR 1956.102 - Application of policies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

...) PROGRAM REGULATIONS (CONTINUED) DEBT SETTLEMENT Debt Settlement-Community and Business Programs § 1956.102 Application of policies. (a) General. If a debt is eligible for settlement, the debt settlement authorities of... in connection with debt settlement will adhere strictly to the authorizations, requirements, and...

7 CFR 1956.102 - Application of policies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

...) PROGRAM REGULATIONS (CONTINUED) DEBT SETTLEMENT Debt Settlement-Community and Business Programs § 1956.102 Application of policies. (a) General. If a debt is eligible for settlement, the debt settlement authorities of... in connection with debt settlement will adhere strictly to the authorizations, requirements, and...

7 CFR 1956.102 - Application of policies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

...) PROGRAM REGULATIONS (CONTINUED) DEBT SETTLEMENT Debt Settlement-Community and Business Programs § 1956.102 Application of policies. (a) General. If a debt is eligible for settlement, the debt settlement authorities of... in connection with debt settlement will adhere strictly to the authorizations, requirements, and...

32 CFR 242.4 - Policies.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... section on obligated service requirements.) (b) In making admissions decisions, the School will adhere to... entrance shall be judged strictly on merit, in terms of demonstrated aptitude, motivation, and potential... the extent possible in making Service assignments. However, to insure that the makeup of each entering...

Combined preoperative traction with instrumented posterior occipitocervical fusion for severe ventral brainstem compression secondary to displaced os odontoideum: technical report of 2 cases.

PubMed

Abd-El-Barr, Muhammad M; Snyder, Brian D; Emans, John B; Proctor, Mark R; Hedequist, Daniel

2016-12-01

Severe os odontoideum causing ventral brainstem compression is a rare and difficult entity to treat. It is generally accepted that severe os odontoideum causing ventral brainstem compression and neurological deficits warrants surgical treatment. This often requires both anterior and posterior procedures. Anterior approaches to the craniocervical junction are fraught with complications, including infection and risk of injury to neurovascular structures. External traction systems traditionally require long-term bedrest. The authors report 2 cases of severe ventral brainstem compression secondary to displaced os odontoideum and describe their use of extended preoperative halo vest traction to reduce the severe kyphosis and improve neurological function, followed by posterior occipitocervical fusion. Postoperatively both patients showed remarkable improvements in their neurological function and kyphotic deformity. Preoperative halo vest traction combined with posterior occipitocervical fusion appears to be a safe and effective method to treat brainstem compression by severe os odontoideum. It allows for adequate decompression of ventral neural structures and improvement of neurological function, but it is not hindered by the risks of anterior surgical approaches and does not restrict patients to strict bedrest as traditional traction systems. This method of halo vest traction and posterior-only approaches may be transferable to other cervical instability issues with both anterior and posterior pathologies.

Understanding Conflict Resolution Philosophically in a School Setting: Three Different Kinds of Violence and Dialogue

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Guilherme, Alexandre

2017-01-01

According to Galtung, violence can be divided into two kinds: (i) direct violence, which is always physical in a wider sense (e.g. bodily harm or verbal abuse) or (ii) indirect violence that is either structural (i.e. the institution is structurally violent because it is organised so to privilege a group over others; e.g. a strict pyramidal…

Towards a unifying theory for the first-, second-, and third-order molecular (non)linear optical response

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pérez-Moreno, Javier; Clays, Koen; Kuzyk, Mark G.

2010-05-01

We present a procedure for the modeling of the dispersion of the nonlinear optical response of complex molecular structures that is based strictly on the results from experimental characterization. We show how under some general conditions, the use of the Thomas-Kuhn sum-rules leads to a successful modeling of the nonlinear response of complex molecular structures.

Fluctuating ideal-gas lattice Boltzmann method with fluctuation dissipation theorem for nonvanishing velocities.

PubMed

Kaehler, G; Wagner, A J

2013-06-01

Current implementations of fluctuating ideal-gas descriptions with the lattice Boltzmann methods are based on a fluctuation dissipation theorem, which, while greatly simplifying the implementation, strictly holds only for zero mean velocity and small fluctuations. We show how to derive the fluctuation dissipation theorem for all k, which was done only for k=0 in previous derivations. The consistent derivation requires, in principle, locally velocity-dependent multirelaxation time transforms. Such an implementation is computationally prohibitively expensive but, with a small computational trick, it is feasible to reproduce the correct FDT without overhead in computation time. It is then shown that the previous standard implementations perform poorly for non vanishing mean velocity as indicated by violations of Galilean invariance of measured structure factors. Results obtained with the method introduced here show a significant reduction of the Galilean invariance violations.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACHES TO EVALUATING THE ROLE OF ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE

EPA Science Inventory

Epidemiologic studies have suggested factors in drinking water influence on the human cardiovascular system. A clear identification of the factors involved requires more invasive techniques and more strict experimental controls than can usually be applied in epidemiologic studies...

Why Teach Drama?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bradley, David

1968-01-01

A strictly literary study of drama can be misleading, but plays brought alive through dramatic activities and productions may be the most profitable core of the secondary-school humanities program. The practical study of drama requires the student's active imagination, self-discipline, creative and positive responses to situations, improvisation,…

Dancing with Languages

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sarmiento, Lilia

2008-01-01

Teachers in traditional bilingual settings confront strict program requirements under the guise of No Child Left Behind (NCLB), excessive assessment demands (state, district and program assessments in both English and Spanish), and negative attitudes about bilingual education from many in the political and public spheres. Since 1998, the passage…

28 CFR 811.11 - Compliance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 28 Judicial Administration 2 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Compliance. 811.11 Section 811.11... OFFENDER REGISTRATION § 811.11 Compliance. (a) A sex offender may be excused from strict compliance with... circumstances that will interfere with compliance and makes alternative arrangements to satisfy the requirements...

28 CFR 811.11 - Compliance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 28 Judicial Administration 2 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Compliance. 811.11 Section 811.11... OFFENDER REGISTRATION § 811.11 Compliance. (a) A sex offender may be excused from strict compliance with... circumstances that will interfere with compliance and makes alternative arrangements to satisfy the requirements...

A Conserved GPG-Motif in the HIV-1 Nef Core Is Required for Principal Nef-Activities

PubMed Central

Martínez-Bonet, Marta; Palladino, Claudia; Briz, Veronica; Rudolph, Jochen M.; Fackler, Oliver T.; Relloso, Miguel; Muñoz-Fernandez, Maria Angeles; Madrid, Ricardo

2015-01-01

To find out new determinants required for Nef activity we performed a functional alanine scanning analysis along a discrete but highly conserved region at the core of HIV-1 Nef. We identified the GPG-motif, located at the 121–137 region of HIV-1 NL4.3 Nef, as a novel protein signature strictly required for the p56Lck dependent Nef-induced CD4-downregulation in T-cells. Since the Nef-GPG motif was dispensable for CD4-downregulation in HeLa-CD4 cells, Nef/AP-1 interaction and Nef-dependent effects on Tf-R trafficking, the observed effects on CD4 downregulation cannot be attributed to structure constraints or to alterations on general protein trafficking. Besides, we found that the GPG-motif was also required for Nef-dependent inhibition of ring actin re-organization upon TCR triggering and MHCI downregulation, suggesting that the GPG-motif could actively cooperate with the Nef PxxP motif for these HIV-1 Nef-related effects. Finally, we observed that the Nef-GPG motif was required for optimal infectivity of those viruses produced in T-cells. According to these findings, we propose the conserved GPG-motif in HIV-1 Nef as functional region required for HIV-1 infectivity and therefore with a potential interest for the interference of Nef activity during HIV-1 infection. PMID:26700863

Neuronal Progenitor Maintenance Requires Lactate Metabolism and PEPCK-M-Directed Cataplerosis.

PubMed

Álvarez, Zaida; Hyroššová, Petra; Perales, José Carlos; Alcántara, Soledad

2016-03-01

This study investigated the metabolic requirements for neuronal progenitor maintenance in vitro and in vivo by examining the metabolic adaptations that support neuronal progenitors and neural stem cells (NSCs) in their undifferentiated state. We demonstrate that neuronal progenitors are strictly dependent on lactate metabolism, while glucose induces their neuronal differentiation. Lactate signaling is not by itself capable of maintaining the progenitor phenotype. The consequences of lactate metabolism include increased mitochondrial and oxidative metabolism, with a strict reliance on cataplerosis through the mitochondrial phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK-M) pathway to support anabolic functions, such as the production of extracellular matrix. In vivo, lactate maintains/induces populations of postnatal neuronal progenitors/NSCs in a PEPCK-M-dependent manner. Taken together, our data demonstrate that, lactate alone or together with other physical/biochemical cues maintain NSCs/progenitors with a metabolic signature that is classically found in tissues with high anabolic capacity. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Time Requirements for the Different Item Types Proposed for Use in the Revised SAT®. Research Report No. 2007-3. ETS RR-07-35

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bridgeman, Brent; Laitusis, Cara Cahalan; Cline, Frederick

2007-01-01

The current study used three data sources to estimate time requirements for different item types on the now current SAT Reasoning Test™. First, we estimated times from a computer-adaptive version of the SAT® (SAT CAT) that automatically recorded item times. Second, we observed students as they answered SAT questions under strict time limits and…

Structure of the GH1 domain of guanylate kinase-associated protein from Rattus norvegicus

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tong, Junsen; Yang, Huiseon; Eom, Soo Hyun

2014-09-12

Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • The crystal structure of GKAP homology domain 1 (GH1) was determined. • GKAP GH1 is a three-helix bundle connected by short flexible loops. • The predicted helix α4 associates weakly with the helix α3, suggesting dynamic nature of the GH1 domain. - Abstract: Guanylate-kinase-associated protein (GKAP) is a scaffolding protein that links NMDA receptor-PSD-95 to Shank–Homer complexes by protein–protein interactions at the synaptic junction. GKAP family proteins are characterized by the presence of a C-terminal conserved GKAP homology domain 1 (GH1) of unknown structure and function. In this study, crystal structure of the GH1 domainmore » of GKAP from Rattus norvegicus was determined in fusion with an N-terminal maltose-binding protein at 2.0 Å resolution. The structure of GKAP GH1 displays a three-helix bundle connected by short flexible loops. The predicted helix α4 which was not visible in the crystal structure associates weakly with the helix α3 suggesting dynamic nature of the GH1 domain. The strict conservation of GH1 domain across GKAP family members and the lack of a catalytic active site required for enzyme activity imply that the GH1 domain might serve as a protein–protein interaction module for the synaptic protein clustering.« less

7 CFR 28.441 - Strict Middling Yellow Stained Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Strict Middling Yellow Stained Color. 28.441 Section... Strict Middling Yellow Stained Color. Strict Middling Yellow Stained Color is color which is deeper than that of Strict Middling Tinged Color. [57 FR 34498, Aug. 5, 1992] ...

7 CFR 28.441 - Strict Middling Yellow Stained Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Strict Middling Yellow Stained Color. 28.441 Section... Strict Middling Yellow Stained Color. Strict Middling Yellow Stained Color is color which is deeper than that of Strict Middling Tinged Color. [57 FR 34498, Aug. 5, 1992] ...

7 CFR 28.441 - Strict Middling Yellow Stained Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Strict Middling Yellow Stained Color. 28.441 Section... Strict Middling Yellow Stained Color. Strict Middling Yellow Stained Color is color which is deeper than that of Strict Middling Tinged Color. [57 FR 34498, Aug. 5, 1992] ...

7 CFR 28.441 - Strict Middling Yellow Stained Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Strict Middling Yellow Stained Color. 28.441 Section... Strict Middling Yellow Stained Color. Strict Middling Yellow Stained Color is color which is deeper than that of Strict Middling Tinged Color. [57 FR 34498, Aug. 5, 1992] ...

7 CFR 28.441 - Strict Middling Yellow Stained Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Strict Middling Yellow Stained Color. 28.441 Section... Strict Middling Yellow Stained Color. Strict Middling Yellow Stained Color is color which is deeper than that of Strict Middling Tinged Color. [57 FR 34498, Aug. 5, 1992] ...

7 CFR 28.412 - Strict Middling Light Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Strict Middling Light Spotted Color. 28.412 Section 28... Light Spotted Color. Strict Middling Light Spotted Color is color which in spot or color, or both, is between Strict Middling Color and Strict Middling Spotted Color. ...

SPH modeling of fluid-structure interaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Luhui; Hu, Xiangyu

2018-02-01

This work concerns numerical modeling of fluid-structure interaction (FSI) problems in a uniform smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) framework. It combines a transport-velocity SPH scheme, advancing fluid motions, with a total Lagrangian SPH formulation dealing with the structure deformations. Since both fluid and solid governing equations are solved in SPH framework, while coupling becomes straightforward, the momentum conservation of the FSI system is satisfied strictly. A well-known FSI benchmark test case has been performed to validate the modeling and to demonstrate its potential.

Intrusion-Tolerant Replication under Attack

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kirsch, Jonathan

2010-01-01

Much of our critical infrastructure is controlled by large software systems whose participants are distributed across the Internet. As our dependence on these critical systems continues to grow, it becomes increasingly important that they meet strict availability and performance requirements, even in the face of malicious attacks, including those…

Spatially Restricted and Developmentally Dynamic Expression of Engrailed Genes in Multiple Cerebellar Cell Types

PubMed Central

Wilson, Sandra L.; Kalinovsky, Anna; Orvis, Grant D.

2011-01-01

The cerebellum is a highly organized structure partitioned into lobules along the anterior–posterior (A-P) axis and into striped molecular domains along the medial–lateral (M-L) axis. The Engrailed (En) homeobox genes are required for patterning the morphological and molecular domains along both axes, as well as for the establishment of the normal afferent topography required to generate a fully functional cerebellum. As a means to understand how the En genes regulate multiple levels of cerebellum construction, we characterized En1 and En2 expression around birth and at postnatal day (P)21 during the period when the cerebellum undergoes a remarkable transformation from a smooth ovoid structure to a highly foliated structure. We show that both En1 and En2 are expressed in many neuronal cell types in the cerebellum, and expression persists until at least P21. En1 and En2 expression, however, undergoes profound changes in their cellular and spatial distributions between embryonic stages and P21, and their expression domains become largely distinct. Comparison of the distribution of En-expressing Purkinje cells relative to early- and late-onset Purkinje cell M-L stripe proteins revealed that although En1- and En2-expressing Purkinje cell domains do not strictly align with those of ZEBRINII at P21, a clear pattern exists that is most evident at E17.5 by an inverse correlation between the level of En2 expression and PLCβ4 and EPHA4. PMID:21431469

An improved bounded semi-Lagrangian scheme for the turbulent transport of passive scalars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Verma, Siddhartha; Xuan, Y.; Blanquart, G.

2014-09-01

An improved bounded semi-Lagrangian scalar transport scheme based on cubic Hermite polynomial reconstruction is proposed in this paper. Boundedness of the scalar being transported is ensured by applying derivative limiting techniques. Single sub-cell extrema are allowed to exist as they are often physical, and help minimize numerical dissipation. This treatment is distinct from enforcing strict monotonicity as done by D.L. Williamson and P.J. Rasch [5], and allows better preservation of small scale structures in turbulent simulations. The proposed bounding algorithm, although a seemingly subtle difference from strict monotonicity enforcement, is shown to result in significant performance gain in laminar cases, and in three-dimensional turbulent mixing layers. The scheme satisfies several important properties, including boundedness, low numerical diffusion, and high accuracy. Performance gain in the turbulent case is assessed by comparing scalar energy and dissipation spectra produced by several bounded and unbounded schemes. The results indicate that the proposed scheme is capable of furnishing extremely accurate results, with less severe resolution requirements than all the other bounded schemes tested. Additional simulations in homogeneous isotropic turbulence, with scalar timestep size unconstrained by the CFL number, show good agreement with spectral scheme results available in the literature. Detailed analytical examination of gain and phase error characteristics of the original cubic Hermite polynomial is also included, and points to dissipation and dispersion characteristics comparable to, or better than, those of a fifth order upwind Eulerian scheme.

School Psychology in the Federal Republic of Germany.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mietzel, Gerd; And Others

1987-01-01

Reviews origins and evaluation of the present status of school psychology in the Federal Republic of Germany, emphasizing strict separation of school tracks. Notes that system has been evolving into more flexible organizational structure in recent years. Discusses roles and functions of school psychology, administration, training, relationships…

PREDICTION OF THE VAPOR PRESSURE, BOILING POINT, HEAT OF VAPORIZATION AND DIFFUSION COEFFICIENT OF ORGANIC COMPOUNDS

EPA Science Inventory

The prototype computer program SPARC has been under development for several years to estimate physical properties and chemical reactivity parameters of organic compounds strictly from molecular structure. SPARC solute-solute physical process models have been developed and tested...

Structural determinants of HIV-1 nucleocapsid protein for cTAR DNA binding and destabilization, and correlation with inhibition of self-primed DNA synthesis.

PubMed

Beltz, Hervé; Clauss, Céline; Piémont, Etienne; Ficheux, Damien; Gorelick, Robert J; Roques, Bernard; Gabus, Caroline; Darlix, Jean-Luc; de Rocquigny, Hugues; Mély, Yves

2005-05-20

The nucleocapsid protein (NC) of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) is formed of two highly conserved CCHC zinc fingers flanked by small basic domains. NC is required for the two obligatory strand transfers in viral DNA synthesis through its nucleic acid chaperoning properties. The first DNA strand transfer relies on NC's ability to bind and destabilize the secondary structure of complementary transactivation response region (cTAR) DNA, to inhibit self-priming, and to promote the annealing of cTAR to TAR RNA. To further investigate NC chaperone properties, our aim was to identify by fluorescence spectroscopy and gel electrophoresis, the NC structural determinants for cTAR binding and destabilization, and for the inhibition of self-primed DNA synthesis on a model system using a series of NC mutants and HIV-1 reverse transcriptase. NC destabilization and self-priming inhibition properties were found to be supported by the two fingers in their proper context and the basic (29)RAPRKKG(35) linker. The strict requirement of the native proximal finger suggests that its hydrophobic platform (Val13, Phe16, Thr24 and Ala25) is crucial for binding, destabilization and inhibition of self-priming. In contrast, only partial folding of the distal finger is required, probably for presenting the Trp37 residue in an appropriate orientation. Also, Trp37 and the hydrophobic residues of the proximal finger appear to be essential for the propagation of the melting from the cTAR ends up to the middle of the stem. Finally, both N-terminal and C-terminal basic domains contribute to cTAR binding but not to its destabilization.

Plants' essential chemical elements

Treesearch

Kevin T. Smith

2007-01-01

Every garden center and hardware store sells fertilizer guaranteed to "feed" plants. In a strict sense, we can't feed plants. Food contains an energy source. Green plants capture solar energy and make their own food through photosynthesis! Photosynthesis and other metabolic processes require chemical elements in appropriate doses for plants to survive...

Possibilities for measuring cotton in the field and outside the laboratory: for breeding, production, ginning, the warehouse

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Cotton is often classified using high volume instrumentation. Although accurate, these laboratory systems require strict laboratory conditions, well trained operators, and are expensive. Much interest has been shown in non-laboratory measurements in situations not related to classing or commercial...

75 FR 15597 - Ensuring Enforcement and Implementation of Abortion Restrictions in the Patient Protection and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-03-29

... generally accepted accounting principles, OMB funds management circulars, and accounting guidance provided... exchanges that will be operational in 2014. The Act also imposes strict payment and accounting requirements... Federal financial assistance. The guidelines shall also offer technical information that States should...

A net fishing enrichment strategy for colorimetric detection of E. coli O157:H7

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The strict regulatory requirements for pathogen monitoring in food systems to ensure safety demands that the detection method can recognize small numbers of pathogens. Although significant efforts on the development of biosensors have been reported with marked improvement in sensitivity, appropriate...

77 FR 4678 - Nonconformance Penalties for On-Highway Heavy Heavy-Duty Diesel Engines

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-01-31

.... Executive Order 13211 (Energy Effects) I. National Technology Transfer Advancement Act J. Executive Order... Amendments of 1977 as a response to a concern with requiring technology-forcing emissions standards for heavy-duty engines. The concern was if strict technology-forcing standards were promulgated, then some...

Optimal Testlet Pool Assembly for Multistage Testing Designs

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ariel, Adelaide; Veldkamp, Bernard P.; Breithaupt, Krista

2006-01-01

Computerized multistage testing (MST) designs require sets of test questions (testlets) to be assembled to meet strict, often competing criteria. Rules that govern testlet assembly may dictate the number of questions on a particular subject or may describe desirable statistical properties for the test, such as measurement precision. In an MST…

Building with stress-skin panels

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bliss, S.

1983-10-01

A promising new technique for constructing homes that employs stress-skin panels is described. In this method, the insulation, drywall, and sheathing are hung in a single panel. The panels are made in 4 x 8 ft. and up and are either laminated or foamed in place. Both processes require strict manufacturing controls.

AMPAC as an intelligent communication core for printing process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mishina, Hiromichi; Yuasa, Tomonori

2000-12-01

The feature analysis of the conventional exchange format used in the field of the graphic arts is performed. It becomes clear from this consideration that most standard defining the transmission format have too strict limitations to adapt for the communication required in the creative and flexible work.

14 CFR 1261.409 - Contracting for collection services.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... regulations of the Internal Revenue Service; (3) The contractor must be required to account strictly for all... information upon returning an account to NASA for subsequent referral to the Department of Justice for... of a revolving fund authorized by statute. Accordingly, payment of the fixed-fee must be charged to...

29 CFR 1450.17 - Contracting for collection services.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Practices Act, 15 U.S.C. 1692; (3) The contractor must be required to account strictly for all amounts collected; (4) The contractor must agree that uncollectible accounts shall be returned with appropriate... returning an account to FMCS for subsequent referral to the Department of Justice for litigation. (b...

Cognitive Development, Genetics Problem Solving, and Genetics Instruction: A Critical Review.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, Mike U.; Sims, O. Suthern, Jr.

1992-01-01

Review of literature concerning problem solving in genetics and Piagetian stage theory. Authors conclude the research suggests that formal-operational thought is not strictly required for the solution of the majority of classical genetics problems; however, some genetic concepts are difficult for concrete operational students to understand.…

Not all shellfish "allergy" is allergy!

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

The popularity of shellfish has been increasing worldwide, with a consequent increase in adverse reactions that can be allergic or toxic. The approximate prevalence of shellfish allergy is estimated at 0.5-2.5% of the general population, depending on degree of consumption by age and geographic regions. The manifestations of shellfish allergy vary widely, but it tends to be more severe than most other food allergens. Tropomyosin is the major allergen and is responsible for cross-reactivity between members of the shellfish family, particularly among the crustacea. Newly described allergens and subtle differences in the structures of tropomyosin between different species of shellfish could account for the discrepancy between in vitro cross-antigenicity and clinical cross-allergenicity. The diagnosis requires a thorough medical history supported by skin testing or measurement of specific IgE level, and confirmed by appropriate oral challenge testing unless the reaction was life-threatening. Management of shellfish allergy is basically strict elimination, which in highly allergic subjects may include avoidance of touching or smelling and the availability of self-administered epinephrine. Specific immunotherapy is not currently available and requires the development of safe and effective protocols. PMID:22410209

Resistance and relatedness on an evolutionary graph

PubMed Central

Maciejewski, Wes

2012-01-01

When investigating evolution in structured populations, it is often convenient to consider the population as an evolutionary graph—individuals as nodes, and whom they may act with as edges. There has, in recent years, been a surge of interest in evolutionary graphs, especially in the study of the evolution of social behaviours. An inclusive fitness framework is best suited for this type of study. A central requirement for an inclusive fitness analysis is an expression for the genetic similarity between individuals residing on the graph. This has been a major hindrance for work in this area as highly technical mathematics are often required. Here, I derive a result that links genetic relatedness between haploid individuals on an evolutionary graph to the resistance between vertices on a corresponding electrical network. An example that demonstrates the potential computational advantage of this result over contemporary approaches is provided. This result offers more, however, to the study of population genetics than strictly computationally efficient methods. By establishing a link between gene transfer and electric circuit theory, conceptualizations of the latter can enhance understanding of the former. PMID:21849384

Functional Specificity of Extracellular Nucleases of Shewanella oneidensis MR-1

PubMed Central

Heun, Magnus; Binnenkade, Lucas; Kreienbaum, Maximilian

2012-01-01

Bacterial species such as Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 require extracellular nucleolytic activity for the utilization of extracellular DNA (eDNA) as a source of nutrients and for the turnover of eDNA as a structural matrix component during biofilm formation. We have previously characterized two extracellular nucleases of S. oneidensis MR-1, ExeM and ExeS. Although both are involved in biofilm formation, they are not specifically required for the utilization of eDNA as a nutrient. Here we identified and characterized EndA, a third extracellular nuclease of Shewanella. The heterologously overproduced and purified protein was highly active and rapidly degraded linear and supercoiled DNAs of various origins. Divalent metal ions (Mg2+ or Mn2+) were required for function. endA is cotranscribed with phoA, an extracellular phosphatase, and is not upregulated upon phosphostarvation. Deletion of endA abolished both extracellular degradation of DNA by S. oneidensis MR-1 and the ability to use eDNA as a sole source of phosphorus. PhoA is not strictly required for the exploitation of eDNA as a nutrient. The activity of EndA prevents the formation of large cell aggregates during planktonic growth. However, in contrast to the findings for ExeM, endA deletion had only minor effects on biofilm formation. The findings strongly suggest that the extracellular nucleases of S. oneidensis exert specific functions required under different conditions. PMID:22492434

High-resolution three-dimensional structural microscopy by single-angle Bragg ptychography

DOE PAGES

Hruszkewycz, S. O.; Allain, M.; Holt, M. V.; ...

2016-11-21

Coherent X-ray microscopy by phase retrieval of Bragg diffraction intensities enables lattice distortions within a crystal to be imaged at nanometre-scale spatial resolutions in three dimensions. While this capability can be used to resolve structure–property relationships at the nanoscale under working conditions, strict data measurement requirements can limit the application of current approaches. Here, in this work, we introduce an efficient method of imaging three-dimensional (3D) nanoscale lattice behaviour and strain fields in crystalline materials with a methodology that we call 3D Bragg projection ptychography (3DBPP). This method enables 3D image reconstruction of a crystal volume from a series ofmore » two-dimensional X-ray Bragg coherent intensity diffraction patterns measured at a single incident beam angle. Structural information about the sample is encoded along two reciprocal-space directions normal to the Bragg diffracted exit beam, and along the third dimension in real space by the scanning beam. Finally, we present our approach with an analytical derivation, a numerical demonstration, and an experimental reconstruction of lattice distortions in a component of a nanoelectronic prototype device.« less

Control of optical bandgap energy and optical absorption coefficient by geometric parameters in sub-10 nm silicon-nanodisc array structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fairuz Budiman, Mohd; Hu, Weiguo; Igarashi, Makoto; Tsukamoto, Rikako; Isoda, Taiga; Itoh, Kohei M.; Yamashita, Ichiro; Murayama, Akihiro; Okada, Yoshitaka; Samukawa, Seiji

2012-02-01

A sub-10 nm, high-density, periodic silicon-nanodisc (Si-ND) array has been fabricated using a new top-down process, which involves a 2D array bio-template etching mask made of Listeria-Dps with a 4.5 nm diameter iron oxide core and damage-free neutral-beam etching (Si-ND diameter: 6.4 nm). An Si-ND array with an SiO2 matrix demonstrated more controllable optical bandgap energy due to the fine tunability of the Si-ND thickness and diameter. Unlike the case of shrinking Si-ND thickness, the case of shrinking Si-ND diameter simultaneously increased the optical absorption coefficient and the optical bandgap energy. The optical absorption coefficient became higher due to the decrease in the center-to-center distance of NDs to enhance wavefunction coupling. This means that our 6 nm diameter Si-ND structure can satisfy the strict requirements of optical bandgap energy control and high absorption coefficient for achieving realistic Si quantum dot solar cells.

Emilin3 is required for notochord sheath integrity and interacts with Scube2 to regulate notochord-derived Hedgehog signals.

PubMed

Corallo, Diana; Schiavinato, Alvise; Trapani, Valeria; Moro, Enrico; Argenton, Francesco; Bonaldo, Paolo

2013-11-01

The notochord is a transient and essential structure that provides both mechanical and signaling cues to the developing vertebrate embryo. In teleosts, the notochord is composed of a core of large vacuolated cells and an outer layer of cells that secrete the notochord sheath. In this work, we have identified the extracellular matrix glycoprotein Emilin3 as a novel essential component of the zebrafish notochord sheath. The development of the notochord sheath is impaired in Emilin3 knockdown embryos. The patterning activity of the notochord is also affected by Emilin3, as revealed by the increase of Hedgehog (Hh) signaling in Emilin3-depleted embryos and the decreased Hh signaling in embryos overexpressing Emilin3 in the notochord. In vitro and in vivo experiments indicate that Emilin3 modulates the availability of Hh ligands by interacting with the permissive factor Scube2 in the notochord sheath. Overall, this study reveals a new role for an EMILIN protein and reinforces the concept that structure and function of the notochord are strictly linked.

Adaptive Control of Linear Modal Systems Using Residual Mode Filters and a Simple Disturbance Estimator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Balas, Mark; Frost, Susan

2012-01-01

Flexible structures containing a large number of modes can benefit from adaptive control techniques which are well suited to applications that have unknown modeling parameters and poorly known operating conditions. In this paper, we focus on a direct adaptive control approach that has been extended to handle adaptive rejection of persistent disturbances. We extend our adaptive control theory to accommodate troublesome modal subsystems of a plant that might inhibit the adaptive controller. In some cases the plant does not satisfy the requirements of Almost Strict Positive Realness. Instead, there maybe be a modal subsystem that inhibits this property. This section will present new results for our adaptive control theory. We will modify the adaptive controller with a Residual Mode Filter (RMF) to compensate for the troublesome modal subsystem, or the Q modes. Here we present the theory for adaptive controllers modified by RMFs, with attention to the issue of disturbances propagating through the Q modes. We apply the theoretical results to a flexible structure example to illustrate the behavior with and without the residual mode filter.

Risk management for the Space Exploration Initiative

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Buchbinder, Ben

1993-01-01

Probabilistic Risk Assessment (PRA) is a quantitative engineering process that provides the analytic structure and decision-making framework for total programmatic risk management. Ideally, it is initiated in the conceptual design phase and used throughout the program life cycle. Although PRA was developed for assessment of safety, reliability, and availability risk, it has far greater application. Throughout the design phase, PRA can guide trade-off studies among system performance, safety, reliability, cost, and schedule. These studies are based on the assessment of the risk of meeting each parameter goal, with full consideration of the uncertainties. Quantitative trade-off studies are essential, but without full identification, propagation, and display of uncertainties, poor decisions may result. PRA also can focus attention on risk drivers in situations where risk is too high. For example, if safety risk is unacceptable, the PRA prioritizes the risk contributors to guide the use of resources for risk mitigation. PRA is used in the Space Exploration Initiative (SEI) Program. To meet the stringent requirements of the SEI mission, within strict budgetary constraints, the PRA structure supports informed and traceable decision-making. This paper briefly describes the SEI PRA process.

A 3D sequence-independent representation of the protein data bank.

PubMed

Fischer, D; Tsai, C J; Nussinov, R; Wolfson, H

1995-10-01

Here we address the following questions. How many structurally different entries are there in the Protein Data Bank (PDB)? How do the proteins populate the structural universe? To investigate these questions a structurally non-redundant set of representative entries was selected from the PDB. Construction of such a dataset is not trivial: (i) the considerable size of the PDB requires a large number of comparisons (there were more than 3250 structures of protein chains available in May 1994); (ii) the PDB is highly redundant, containing many structurally similar entries, not necessarily with significant sequence homology, and (iii) there is no clear-cut definition of structural similarity. The latter depend on the criteria and methods used. Here, we analyze structural similarity ignoring protein topology. To date, representative sets have been selected either by hand, by sequence comparison techniques which ignore the three-dimensional (3D) structures of the proteins or by using sequence comparisons followed by linear structural comparison (i.e. the topology, or the sequential order of the chains, is enforced in the structural comparison). Here we describe a 3D sequence-independent automated and efficient method to obtain a representative set of protein molecules from the PDB which contains all unique structures and which is structurally non-redundant. The method has two novel features. The first is the use of strictly structural criteria in the selection process without taking into account the sequence information. To this end we employ a fast structural comparison algorithm which requires on average approximately 2 s per pairwise comparison on a workstation. The second novel feature is the iterative application of a heuristic clustering algorithm that greatly reduces the number of comparisons required. We obtain a representative set of 220 chains with resolution better than 3.0 A, or 268 chains including lower resolution entries, NMR entries and models. The resulting set can serve as a basis for extensive structural classification and studies of 3D recurring motifs and of sequence-structure relationships. The clustering algorithm succeeds in classifying into the same structural family chains with no significant sequence homology, e.g. all the globins in one single group, all the trypsin-like serine proteases in another or all the immunoglobulin-like folds into a third. In addition, unexpected structural similarities of interest have been automatically detected between pairs of chains. A cluster analysis of the representative structures demonstrates the way the "structural universe' is populated.

The Processing and Interpretation of Verb Phrase Ellipsis Constructions by Children at Normal and Slowed Speech Rates

PubMed Central

Callahan, Sarah M.; Walenski, Matthew; Love, Tracy

2013-01-01

Purpose To examine children’s comprehension of verb phrase (VP) ellipsis constructions in light of their automatic, online structural processing abilities and conscious, metalinguistic reflective skill. Method Forty-two children ages 5 through 12 years listened to VP ellipsis constructions involving the strict/sloppy ambiguity (e.g., “The janitor untangled himself from the rope and the fireman in the elementary school did too after the accident.”) in which the ellipsis phrase (“did too”) had 2 interpretations: (a) strict (“untangled the janitor”) and (b) sloppy (“untangled the fireman”). We examined these sentences at a normal speech rate with an online cross-modal picture priming task (n = 14) and an offline sentence–picture matching task (n = 11). Both tasks were also given with slowed speech input (n = 17). Results Children showed priming for both the strict and sloppy interpretations at a normal speech rate but only for the strict interpretation with slowed input. Offline, children displayed an adultlike preference for the sloppy interpretation with normal-rate input but a divergent pattern with slowed speech. Conclusions Our results suggest that children and adults rely on a hybrid syntax-discourse model for the online comprehension and offline interpretation of VP ellipsis constructions. This model incorporates a temporally sensitive syntactic process of VP reconstruction (disrupted with slow input) and a temporally protracted discourse effect attributed to parallelism (preserved with slow input). PMID:22223886

ExpandplusCrystal Structures of Poly(ADP-ribose) Polymerase-1 (PARP-1) Zinc Fingers Bound to DNA

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

M Langelier; J Planck; S Roy

2011-12-31

Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) has two homologous zinc finger domains, Zn1 and Zn2, that bind to a variety of DNA structures to stimulate poly(ADP-ribose) synthesis activity and to mediate PARP-1 interaction with chromatin. The structural basis for interaction with DNA is unknown, which limits our understanding of PARP-1 regulation and involvement in DNA repair and transcription. Here, we have determined crystal structures for the individual Zn1 and Zn2 domains in complex with a DNA double strand break, providing the first views of PARP-1 zinc fingers bound to DNA. The Zn1-DNA and Zn2-DNA structures establish a novel, bipartite mode of sequence-independent DNAmore » interaction that engages a continuous region of the phosphodiester backbone and the hydrophobic faces of exposed nucleotide bases. Biochemical and cell biological analysis indicate that the Zn1 and Zn2 domains perform distinct functions. The Zn2 domain exhibits high binding affinity to DNA compared with the Zn1 domain. However, the Zn1 domain is essential for DNA-dependent PARP-1 activity in vitro and in vivo, whereas the Zn2 domain is not strictly required. Structural differences between the Zn1-DNA and Zn2-DNA complexes, combined with mutational and structural analysis, indicate that a specialized region of the Zn1 domain is re-configured through the hydrophobic interaction with exposed nucleotide bases to initiate PARP-1 activation.« less

The Role of Life Satisfaction in the Relationship between Authoritative Parenting Dimensions and Adolescent Problem Behavior

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Suldo, Shannon M.; Huebner, E. Scott

2004-01-01

Research examining environmental factors associated with adolescents' life satisfaction (LS) has revealed that familial variables (e.g., parent-child conflict, family structure) are crucial correlates. The purpose of the current study was to identify particular dimensions of authoritative parenting (strictness-supervision, social…

Structuring Historic Site-Based History Laboratories for Teacher Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Baron, Christine

2014-01-01

Providing training for pre-service teachers at historic sites necessitates a reorientation for historic site-based teacher education programs away from strict content learning towards programs that emphasize the modeling of disciplinary problem solving and transfer learning. Outlined here is a History Lab model for teacher education that uses the…

Vocational Education in Japan and Texas. Policy Research Project Report 100.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Texas Univ., Austin. Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs.

The divergent cultural patterns, philosophies of education, and basic structures of government in Japan and the United States have resulted in distinct differences between the educational systems of the two countries. The national government strictly regulates all aspects of Japanese education (including student achievement levels and the…

Does Air Quality Matter? Evidence from the Housing Market.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chay, Kenneth Y.; Greenstone, Michael

2005-01-01

We exploit the structure of the Clean Air Act to provide new evidence on the capitalization of total suspended particulates (TSPs) air pollution into housing values. This legislation imposes strict regulations on polluters in "nonattainment" counties, which are defined by concentrations of TSPs that exceed a federally set ceiling. TSPs…

The impact of Sleep Time-Related Information and Communication Technology (STRICT) on sleep patterns and daytime functioning in American adolescents.

PubMed

Polos, Peter G; Bhat, Sushanth; Gupta, Divya; O'Malley, Richard J; DeBari, Vincent A; Upadhyay, Hinesh; Chaudhry, Saqib; Nimma, Anitha; Pinto-Zipp, Genevieve; Chokroverty, Sudhansu

2015-10-01

This cross-sectional study explored the extent and impact of mobile device-based Sleep Time-Related Information and Communication Technology (STRICT) use among American adolescents (N = 3139, 49.3% female, mean age = 13.3 years). Nearly 62% used STRICT after bedtime, 56.7% texted/tweeted/messaged in bed, and 20.8% awoke to texts. STRICT use was associated with insomnia, daytime sleepiness, eveningness, academic underperformance, later bedtimes and shorter sleep duration. Moderation analysis demonstrated that the association between STRICT use and insomnia increased with age, the association between STRICT use and daytime sleepiness decreased with age, and the association between STRICT use and shorter sleep duration decreased with age and was stronger in girls. Insomnia and daytime sleepiness partially mediated the relationship between STRICT use and academic underperformance. Our results illustrate the adverse interactions between adolescent STRICT use and sleep, with deleterious effects on daytime functioning. These worrisome findings suggest that placing reasonable limitations on adolescent STRICT use may be appropriate. Copyright © 2015 The Foundation for Professionals in Services for Adolescents. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Cavin Family: New Players in the Biology of Caveolae.

PubMed

Nassar, Zeyad D; Parat, Marie-Odile

2015-01-01

Caveolae are specialized small plasma-membrane invaginations that play crucial cellular functions. Two essential protein families are required for caveola formation: membrane caveolin proteins and cytoplasmic cavin proteins. Each family includes members with specific tissue distribution, and their expression is altered under physiological and pathological conditions, implying highly specialized functions. Cavins not only stabilize caveolae, but modulate their morphology and functions as well. Before association with the plasma membrane, cavins form homo- and hetero-oligomers with strikingly strict stoichiometry in the cytosol. At the plasma membrane, they provide an outer peripheral cytosolic layer, necessary for caveola stability. Interestingly, upon stimulation, cavins can be released from caveolae into the cytoplasm in distinct subcomplexes, providing a rapid dynamic link between caveolae and cellular organelles including the nucleus. In this review, we detail the biology of cavins, their structural and functional roles, and their implication in pathophysiology. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Energy conservation and the residential and commercial sector

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1975-01-01

A detailed analysis of energy conservation actions relevant to the residential and commercial sector has led to the conclusion that the potential for savings is great. The task will not be easy, however, since many of the actions require significant life style changes that are difficult to accomplish. Furthermore, many of the conservation actions cited as instant solutions to the energy crisis are those with only mid to long term potential, such as solar energy or heat pumps. Three significant conservation approaches are viable: adjusting price structure, mandating actions, and educating consumers. The first two appear to be the most feasible. But they are not without a price. Higher utility bills adversely affect the poor and the elderly on fixed incomes. Likewise, strict mandatory measures can be quite distasteful. But the effect of alternatives, such as voluntary savings accomplished through education processes, is minimal in a nation without a true conservation ethic.

Broadening perspectives on pediatric oral health care provision: social determinants of health and behavioral management.

PubMed

Fisher-Owens, Susan

2014-01-01

Dental caries is not just the most common chronic childhood disease, with not insignificant burden of disease during childhood, but also lifelong impact. Traditional models that focus on the "mouth in the chair" have been helpful but insufficient to identify structural root causes for its high incidence, thus having a limited ability to prevent the disease. The addition of social and behavioral determinants to strictly biologic models provides the full context of care, enabling providers to better tailor their guidance and improve health outcomes. In-office behavioral management involves understanding these determinants and applying appropriate techniques; these not only can help reset family and patient expectations but can actually increase compliance. Lastly, children with multiple medical issues require additional focus, as they can carry greater burden of disease, making it even more critical during office visits to offer multifactorial compliance strategies for these patients and their parents.

Nucleolus Precursor Bodies and Ribosome Biogenesis in Early Mammalian Embryos: Old Theories and New Discoveries.

PubMed

Fulka, Helena; Aoki, Fugaku

2016-06-01

In mammals, mature oocytes and early preimplantation embryos contain transcriptionally inactive structures termed nucleolus precursor bodies instead of the typical fibrillo-granular nucleoli. These nuclear organelles are essential and strictly of maternal origin. If they are removed from oocytes, the resulting embryos are unable to replace them and consequently fail to develop. Historically, nucleolus precursor bodies have been perceived as a passive repository site of nucleolar proteins that are required for embryos to form fully functional nucleoli. Recent results, however, contradict this long-standing dogma and show that these organelles are dispensable for nucleologenesis and ribosome biogenesis. In this article, we discuss the possible roles of nucleolus precursor bodies and propose how they might be involved in embryogenesis. Furthermore, we argue that these organelles are essential only shortly after fertilization and suggest that they might actively participate in centromeric chromatin establishment. © 2016 by the Society for the Study of Reproduction, Inc.

Optimal control of nonlinear continuous-time systems in strict-feedback form.

PubMed

Zargarzadeh, Hassan; Dierks, Travis; Jagannathan, Sarangapani

2015-10-01

This paper proposes a novel optimal tracking control scheme for nonlinear continuous-time systems in strict-feedback form with uncertain dynamics. The optimal tracking problem is transformed into an equivalent optimal regulation problem through a feedforward adaptive control input that is generated by modifying the standard backstepping technique. Subsequently, a neural network-based optimal control scheme is introduced to estimate the cost, or value function, over an infinite horizon for the resulting nonlinear continuous-time systems in affine form when the internal dynamics are unknown. The estimated cost function is then used to obtain the optimal feedback control input; therefore, the overall optimal control input for the nonlinear continuous-time system in strict-feedback form includes the feedforward plus the optimal feedback terms. It is shown that the estimated cost function minimizes the Hamilton-Jacobi-Bellman estimation error in a forward-in-time manner without using any value or policy iterations. Finally, optimal output feedback control is introduced through the design of a suitable observer. Lyapunov theory is utilized to show the overall stability of the proposed schemes without requiring an initial admissible controller. Simulation examples are provided to validate the theoretical results.

Investigation of Legal Criteria Governing Notice Requirements and Oral Change Order Disputes

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-05-01

compared waiver to equitable estoppel . The doctrine of estoppel prevents the owner from insisting upon strict compliance of the contract requirements...refusal to enforce forfeiture has been based on the doctrines of waiver or estoppel . That is to say, the courts have found that the owner had committed...his right to insist on notice. The terms waiver and estoppel are closely related. These will first be defined and their similarities and differences

Conservation of Fold and Topology of Functional Elements in Thiamin Pyrophosphate Enzymes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dominiak, P.; Ciszak, E. M.

2005-01-01

Thiamin pyrophosphate (TPP)-dependent enzymes are a highly divergent family of proteins binding both TPP and metal ions. They perform decarboxylation-hydroxyaldehydes. Prior -ketoacids and of a common - (O=)C-C(OH)- fragment of to knowledge of three-dimensional structures of these enzmes, the GDGY25-30NN sequence was used to identify these enzymes. Subsequently, a number of structural studies on those enzymes revealed multi-subunit organization and the features of the two duplicate cofactor binding sites. Analyzing the structures of 44 structurally known enzymes, we found that the common structure of these enzymes is reduced to 180-220 amino acid long fragments of two PP and two PYR domains that form the [PP:PYR]2 binding center of two cofactor molecules. The structures of PP and PYR are arranged in a similar fold-sheet with triplets of helices on both sides.Dconsisting of a six-stranded Residues surrounding the cofactors are not strictly conserved, but they provide the same interatomic contacts required for the catalytic functions that these enzymes perform while maintaining interactive structural integrity. These structural and functional amino acids are topological counterparts located in the same positions of the conserved fold of sets of PP and PYR domains. Additional parallels include short fragments of sequences that link these amino acids to the fold and function. This report on the structural commonalities amongst TPP dependent enzymes is thought to contribute new approaches to annotation that may assist in advancing the functional proteomics of TPP dependent enzymes, and trace their complexity within evolutionary context.

Arc-Second Alignment of International X-Ray Observatory Mirror Segments in a Fixed Structure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Evans, Tyler, C.; Chan, Kai-Wing; Saha, Timo T.

2010-01-01

The optics for the International X-Ray Observatory (IXO) require alignment and integration of about fourteen thousand thin mirror segments to achieve the mission goal of 3.0 square meters of effective area at 1.25 keV with an angular resolution of five arc-seconds. These mirror segments are 0.4 mm thick, and 200 to 400 mm in size, which makes it hard to meet the strict angular resolution requirement of 5 arc-seconds for the telescope. This paper outlines the precise alignment, verification testing, and permanent bonding techniques developed at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC). These techniques are used to overcome the challenge of transferring thin mirror segments from a temporary mount to a fixed structure with arc-second alignment and minimal figure distortion. Recent advances in technology development in addition to the automation of several processes have produced significant results. Recent advances in the mirror fixture process known as the suspension mount has allowed for a mirror to be mounted to a fixture with minimal distortion. Once on the fixture, mirror segments have been aligned to around 5 arc-seconds which is halfway to the goal of 2.5 arc-seconds per mirror segment. This paper will highlight the recent advances in alignment, testing, and permanent bonding techniques as well as the results they have produced.

A plant virus movement protein forms ringlike complexes with the major nucleolar protein, fibrillarin, in vitro.

PubMed

Canetta, Elisabetta; Kim, Sang Hyon; Kalinina, Natalia O; Shaw, Jane; Adya, Ashok K; Gillespie, Trudi; Brown, John W S; Taliansky, Michael

2008-02-29

Fibrillarin, one of the major proteins of the nucleolus, has methyltransferase activity directing 2'-O-ribose methylation of rRNA and snRNAs and is required for rRNA processing. The ability of the plant umbravirus, groundnut rosette virus, to move long distances through the phloem, the specialized plant vascular system, has been shown to strictly depend on the interaction of one of its proteins, the ORF3 protein (protein encoded by open reading frame 3), with fibrillarin. This interaction is essential for several stages in the groundnut rosette virus life cycle such as nucleolar import of the ORF3 protein via Cajal bodies, relocalization of some fibrillarin from the nucleolus to cytoplasm, and assembly of cytoplasmic umbraviral ribonucleoprotein particles that are themselves required for the long-distance spread of the virus and systemic infection. Here, using atomic force microscopy, we determine the architecture of these complexes as single-layered ringlike structures with a diameter of 18-22 nm and a height of 2.0+/-0.4 nm, which consist of several (n=6-8) distinct protein granules. We also estimate the molar ratio of fibrillarin to ORF3 protein in the complexes as approximately 1:1. Based on these data, we propose a model of the structural organization of fibrillarin-ORF3 protein complexes and discuss potential mechanistic and functional implications that may also apply to other viruses.

ZEA-TDMA: design and system level implementation of a TDMA protocol for anonymous wireless networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Banerjee, Debasmit; Dong, Bo; Biswas, Subir

2013-05-01

Wireless sensor network used in military applications may be deployed in hostile environments, where privacy and security is of primary concern. This can lead to the formation of a trust-based sub-network among mutually-trusting nodes. However, designing a TDMA MAC protocol is very challenging in situations where such multiple sub-networks coexist, since TDMA protocols require node identity information for slot assignments. This paper introduces a novel distributed TDMA MAC protocol, ZEA-TDMA (Zero Exposure Anonymous TDMA), for anonymous wireless networks. ZEA-TDMA achieves slot allocation with strict anonymity constraints, i.e. without nodes having to exchange any identity revealing information. By using just the relative time of arrival of packets and a novel technique of wireless collision-detection and resolution for fixed packetsizes, ZEA-TDMA is able to achieve MAC slot-allocation which is described as follows. Initially, a newly joined node listens to its one-hop neighborhood channel usage and creates a slot allocation table based on its own relative time, and finally, selects a slot that is collision free within its one-hop neighborhood. The selected slot can however cause hidden collisions with a two-hop neighbor of the node. These collisions are resolved by a common neighbor of the colliding nodes, which first detects the collision, and then resolve them using an interrupt packet. ZEA-TDMA provides the following features: a) it is a TDMA protocol ideally suited for highly secure or strictly anonymous environments b) it can be used in heterogeneous environments where devices use different packet structures c) it does not require network time-synchronization, and d) it is insensitive to channel errors. We have implemented ZEA-TDMA on the MICA2 hardware platform running TinyOS and evaluated the protocol functionality and performance on a MICA2 test-bed.

UNIFORM ESTIMATES FOR SOLUTIONS OF THE \\overline{\\partial}-EQUATION IN PSEUDOCONVEX POLYHEDRA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sergeev, A. G.; Henkin, G. M.

1981-04-01

It is proved that the nonhomogeneous Cauchy-Riemann equation on an analytic submanifold "in general position" in a Cartesian product of strictly convex domains admits a solution with a uniform estimate. The possibility of weakening the requirement of general position in this result is investigated. Bibliography: 46 titles.

Ultra-Compact Neuroprocessor for Automotive Diagnostic and Control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tawel, R.; Aranki, N.; Feldkamp, L. A.; Marko, K. A.

1998-01-01

Demands on the performance of vehicle control and diagnostic systems are steadily increasing as a consequence of stiff global competition and government mandates. In the United States, light trucks and passenger cars are required both to meet strict emission standards and to perform continuous diagnostics of all emissions systems operating in the vehicle.

PROGRAMMED INSTRUCTION AND THE HOSPITAL, A REPORT ON THE USE OF PROGRAMMED INSTRUCTION IN HEALTH CARE INSTITUTIONS.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hospital Research and Educational Trust, Chicago, IL.

THE FIRST SECTION OF THIS REPORT ON PROGRAMED INSTRUCTION IN THE HEALTH CARE FIELD EXAMINES THE HOSPITAL MILIEU AND SUCH PROBLEMS AS PERSONNEL SHORTAGES, INCREASING SPECIALIZATION, AND STRICT TECHNICAL AND EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS. THE SECOND SECTION REVIEWS SOME RECENT ADVANCES IN BEHAVIORAL TECHNOLOGY, FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES OF TEACHING…

Edison Is the Symptom, NCLB Is the Disease

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Campbell, Peter

2007-01-01

Engaging students requires giving them a say in what they learn and how they will learn it. However, in strictly disciplined, rule-bound schools with test-driven curricula, this cannot happen. Edison Schools, Inc., a for-profit Education Management Organization (EMO), and Confluence Academy, an Edison-run school located in one of the most…

76 FR 78610 - Notice of Intent To Reduce the Frequency of Rice and Potato Stocks Surveys and All Associated...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-12-19

... the resulting publications. Abstract: The primary functions of the National Agricultural Statistics..., filing of petitions and applications and agency #0;statements of organization and functions are examples..., 7 U.S.C. 2276, which requires USDA to afford strict confidentiality to non- aggregated data provided...

Overview of paint removal methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Foster, Terry

1995-04-01

With the introduction of strict environmental regulations governing the use and disposal of methylene chloride and phenols, major components of chemical paint strippers, there have been many new environmentally safe and effective methods of paint removal developed. The new methods developed for removing coatings from aircraft and aircraft components include: mechanical methods using abrasive media such as plastic, wheat starch, walnut shells, ice and dry ice, environmentally safe chemical strippers and paint softeners, and optical methods such as lasers and flash lamps. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and some have unique applications. For example, mechanical and abrasive methods can damage sensitive surfaces such as composite materials and strict control of blast parameters and conditions are required. Optical methods can be slow, leaving paint residues, and chemical methods may not remove all of the coating or require special coating formulations to be effective. As an introduction to environmentally safe and effective methods of paint removal, this paper is an overview of the various methods available. The purpose of this overview is to introduce the various paint removal methods available.

Base Pairing between U3 Small Nucleolar RNA and the 5′ End of 18S rRNA Is Required for Pre-rRNA Processing

PubMed Central

Sharma, Kishor; Tollervey, David

1999-01-01

The loop of a stem structure close to the 5′ end of the 18S rRNA is complementary to the box A region of the U3 small nucleolar RNA (snoRNA). Substitution of the 18S loop nucleotides inhibited pre-rRNA cleavage at site A1, the 5′ end of the 18S rRNA, and at site A2, located 1.9 kb away in internal transcribed spacer 1. This inhibition was largely suppressed by a compensatory mutation in U3, demonstrating functional base pairing. The U3–pre-rRNA base pairing is incompatible with the structure that forms in the mature 18S rRNA and may prevent premature folding of the pre-rRNA. In the Escherichia coli pre-rRNA the homologous region of the 16S rRNA is also sequestered, in that case by base pairing to the 5′ external transcribed spacer (5′ ETS). Cleavage at site A0 in the yeast 5′ ETS strictly requires base pairing between U3 and a sequence within the 5′ ETS. In contrast, the U3-18S interaction is not required for A0 cleavage. U3 therefore carries out at least two functionally distinct base pair interactions with the pre-rRNA. The nucleotide at the site of A1 cleavage was shown to be specified by two distinct signals; one of these is the stem-loop structure within the 18S rRNA. However, in contrast to the efficiency of cleavage, the position of A1 cleavage is not dependent on the U3-loop interaction. We conclude that the 18S stem-loop structure is recognized at least twice during pre-rRNA processing. PMID:10454548

A GPR system for the high-resolution inspection of walls and structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manacorda, Guido; Simi, Alessandro; Barsacchi, Giorgio

2014-05-01

Nowadays GPR systems are used in a broad range of applications, including the non-destructive inspection of man-made concrete structures such as pillars and bridge decks. Concrete inspection involves several aspects including: location of reinforced bars in walls and floors, concrete condition assessment, concrete cover detection, etc. These surveys are very demanding as far as the system is concerned, because of the strict requirements in terms of resolution and accuracy. Specifically, a key GPR application concerns the condition assessment of a structure that has undergone rehabilitation (e.g. for the removal of architectural barriers or new openings); in this case, the current practice requires to re-check the stability of the entire structure that includes the identification of the number of rebars in reinforced concrete beams location of pre-tensioned cables and early detection of corrosion. This can be done by verification holes (coring) that is costly and intrusive practice or by using a pachometer, but this tool has a limited field of investigation (up to 7-8 cm from the surface). GPR can instead be a useful investigative tool especially when the surface of the beam is not accessible because it is covered by screed or floor. The need of detecting rebars with diameter in the millimeter range as well as the identification of small cavities and cracks, require the development of GPR antennas featuring linear phase and constant polarization, and capable to radiate a very short pulse (i.e. with a duration in the order of few hundreds of picosecond) with no ring-down in order to achieve a high range resolution. A novel 3 GHz center frequency antenna has been recently developed and tested; it has been found capable of providing a very clear image of the concrete internal structure that helps in locating targets and enables an early detection of damages, thus providing a fast and efficient maintenance of the structure itself. The Authors thank COST for funding COST Action TU1208 "Civil Engineering Applications of Ground Penetrating Radar".

The Effect of Strict Segregation on Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Cystic Fibrosis Patients

PubMed Central

van Mansfeld, Rosa; de Vrankrijker, Angelica; Brimicombe, Roland; Heijerman, Harry; Teding van Berkhout, Ferdinand; Spitoni, Cristian; Grave, Sanne; van der Ent, Cornelis; Wolfs, Tom; Willems, Rob; Bonten, Marc

2016-01-01

Introduction Segregation of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) was implemented to prevent chronic infection with epidemic Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains with presumed detrimental clinical effects, but its effectiveness has not been carefully evaluated. Methods The effect of strict segregation on the incidence of P. aeruginosa infection in CF patients was investigated through longitudinal protocolized follow-up of respiratory tract infection before and after segregation. In two nested cross-sectional studies in 2007 and 2011 the P. aeruginosa population structure was investigated and clinical parameters were determined in patients with and without infection with the Dutch epidemic P. aeruginosa clone (ST406). Results Of 784 included patients 315 and 382 were at risk for acquiring chronic P. aeruginosa infection before and after segregation. Acquisition rates were, respectively, 0.14 and 0.05 per 1,000 days at risk (HR: 0.66, 95% CI [0.2548–1.541]; p = 0.28). An exploratory subgroup analysis indicated lower acquisition after segregation in children < 15 years of age (HR: 0.43, 95% CI[0.21–0.95]; p = 0.04). P. aeruginosa population structure did not change after segregation and ST406 was not associated with lung function decline, death or lung transplantation. Conclusions Strict segregation was not associated with a statistically significant lower acquisition of chronic P. aeruginosa infection and ST406 was not associated with adverse clinical outcome. After segregation there were no new acquisitions of ST406. In an unplanned exploratory analysis chronic acquisition of P. aeruginosa was lower after implementation of segregation in patients under 15 years of age. PMID:27280467

[Safety evaluation and risk control measures of Cassiae Semen].

PubMed

Zhao, Yi-Meng; Wu, Li; Zhang, Shuo; Zhang, Li; Gao, Xue-Min; Sun, Xiao-Bo; Wang, Chun

2017-11-01

In this study, the authors reviewed domestic and foreign literatures, conducted the textual research on origin and development of Cassia Semen, studied records in ancient books and ancient and modern literatures, clinical adverse reactions and relevant experimental studies in recent years, and summarized the clinical features and influencing factors related to the safety of Cassiae Semen. According to the findings,Cassia Semen's safety risks are mainly liver and kidney system damages, with the main clinical features of fatigue, anorexia, disgusting of oil, yellow urine and gray stool; digestive system injury, with the main clinical features of diarrhea, abdominal distension, nausea and loose stool; reproductive system damage, with the main clinical features of vaginal bleeding. Allergic reactions and clinical adverse events, with the main clinical features for numb mouth, itching skin, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, wheezing and lip cyanosis were also reported. The toxicological studies on toxic components of Cassiae Semen obtusifolia were carried out through acute toxicity test, subacute toxicity test, subchronic toxicity test and chronic toxicity test. Risk factors might include patients, compatibility and physicians. Physicians should strictly abide by the medication requirements in the Pharmacopoeia, pay attention to rational compatibility, appropriate dosage,correct usage and appropriate processing, control the dosage below 15 g to avoid excessive intake, strictly control the course of treatment to avoid accumulated poisoning caused by long-term administration. At the same time, clinicians should pay attention to the latest research progress, update the knowledge structure, quickly find the latest and useful materials from clinical practice, scientific research and drug information and other literatures, make evaluation and judgment for the materials, establish a traditional Chinese medicine intelligence information library, and strengthen the control over adverse effects with a pre-warning consciousness. The authors suggested standardizing clinical medication of Cassiae Semen, and avoiding misuse or excessive use; clinicians should prescribe it in strict accordance with there commended usage and dosage in the Pharmacopoeia, and focus on the safety signal accumulation in clinic, while strengthening studies for toxic substance basis and toxicity mechanism, in order to give full play to Cassiae Semen's clinical efficacy and reduce its adverse reactions. Copyright© by the Chinese Pharmaceutical Association.

Playing with/through Non-Fiction Texts: Young Children Authoring Their Relationships with History

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ghiso, Maria Paula

2013-01-01

This article examines the relationship between literacy and play in six- and seven-year-olds' engagement with non-fiction writing. I draw from a year-long ethnographic study (Erickson, 1986) of a US classroom's "writing time", intentionally structured on children's own interests and enquiries. Rather than strict adherence to monolithic…

Reengineering Electrical Engineering Undergraduate Laboratories at Escola Politecnica, University of Sao Paulo.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Seabra, Antonio C.; Consonni, Denise

Brazilian engineering schools are under a strict program to reengineer their courses with the financial support of the federal agencies. At the electronic engineering department at the University of Sao Paulo, this process started by modifying the Basic Electricity and Electronic Laboratories. This paper describes the new structure of these labs…

A Programmer’s Assistant for a Special-Purpose Dataflow Language.

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-12-01

valueclasscheck ’strict)) load-qda-kbs Loads the 6DA knowledge bases (defun Ioad-qda-kbs 0) Idolist (kb foda -kbst) (kbload (strino-append ’host-dir...DeMarco, T., "Structured Analysis and System Specification," GUIDE 47 Proceedings, 1978. Reprinted in Classics in Software Engineering, edited by Edward

Teaching Values in Everything We Do: The Nativity Experience.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Daly, Jennifer Grumhaus

1996-01-01

Nativity Prep, a small, inner-city Roman Catholic middle school seeks to provide an environment that helps students excel in their studies and their personal development. The school has few discipline problems due to its small size; its strict, highly structured academic climate; its underpaid and devoted faculty; and its practice of praying…

Differential gene expression patterns in the autogamous plant Hordeum euclaston (Poaceae).

PubMed

Georg-Kraemer, J E; Ferreira, C A S; Cavalli, S S

2011-02-22

Sib-seedlings of 95 strains of the strictly autogamous grass Hordeum euclaston were analyzed by horizontal polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis for four isoenzyme systems at a specific ontogenetic stage. We found differences in the activity of some genes among individuals of this species. Hence, an ontogenetic analysis was carried out to investigate 12 strains at five ontogenetic stages, to determine the patterns of expression of these genes during development. The differences in the presence versus absence of certain isoenzyme bands may be due to differential regulatory activation in response to environmental differences, as all plants showed the same structural genes, although these genes were active in different tissues and/or times of development. These results indicate the importance of differential gene activation in the metabolic phenotype variability of this strictly autogamous, highly homozygous species. The same structural alleles for isoenzymes showed the active form of the enzymes (phenotypic expression) to be present in different tissues and/or stages of development. Differential isoenzyme gene activation was shown to be directly responsible for the enzymatic variability (metabolic phenotype) presented by the plants, which seem to possess almost no heterozygosis.

Effects of growth temperature and strictly anaerobic recovery on the survival of Listeria monocytogenes during pasteurization.

PubMed Central

Knabel, S J; Walker, H W; Hartman, P A; Mendonca, A F

1990-01-01

Listeria monocytogenes F5069 was suspended in either Trypticase soy broth-0.6% yeast extract (TSBYE) or sterile, whole milk and heated at 62.8 degrees C in sealed thermal death time tubes. Severely heat-injured cells were recovered in TSBYE within sealed thermal death time tubes because of the formation of reduced conditions in the depths of the TSBYE. Also, the use of strictly anaerobic Hungate techniques significantly increased recovery in TSBYE containing 1.5% agar compared with aerobically incubated controls. The exogenous addition of catalase, but not superoxide dismutase, slightly increased the recovery of heat-injured cells in TSBYE containing 1.5% agar incubated aerobically. Growth of cells at 43 degrees C caused a greater increase in heat resistance as compared with cells heat shocked at 43 degrees C or cells grown at lower temperatures. Growth of L. monocytogenes at 43 degrees C and enumeration by the use of strictly anaerobic Hungate techniques resulted in D62.8 degrees C values that were at least sixfold greater than those previously obtained by using cells grown at 37 degrees C and aerobic plating. Results indicate that, under the conditions of the present study, high levels of L. monocytogenes would survive the minimum low-temperature, long-time treatment required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for pasteurizing milk. The possible survival of low levels of L. monocytogenes during high-temperature, short-time pasteurization and enumeration of injured cells by recovery on selective media under strictly anaerobic conditions are discussed. PMID:2106284

Sequence specificity of the human mRNA N6-adenosine methylase in vitro.

PubMed Central

Harper, J E; Miceli, S M; Roberts, R J; Manley, J L

1990-01-01

N6-adenosine methylation is a frequent modification of mRNAs and their precursors, but little is known about the mechanism of the reaction or the function of the modification. To explore these questions, we developed conditions to examine N6-adenosine methylase activity in HeLa cell nuclear extracts. Transfer of the methyl group from S-[3H methyl]-adenosylmethionine to unlabeled random copolymer RNA substrates of varying ribonucleotide composition revealed a substrate specificity consistent with a previously deduced consensus sequence, Pu[G greater than A]AC[A/C/U]. 32-P labeled RNA substrates of defined sequence were used to examine the minimum sequence requirements for methylation. Each RNA was 20 nucleotides long, and contained either the core consensus sequence GGACU, or some variation of this sequence. RNAs containing GGACU, either in single or multiple copies, were good substrates for methylation, whereas RNAs containing single base substitutions within the GGACU sequence gave dramatically reduced methylation. These results demonstrate that the N6-adenosine methylase has a strict sequence specificity, and that there is no requirement for extended sequences or secondary structures for methylation. Recognition of this sequence does not require an RNA component, as micrococcal nuclease pretreatment of nuclear extracts actually increased methylation efficiency. Images PMID:2216767

The Role of Organizational Culture in the Leadership of United States Air Force Services Squadrons

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-01-01

correlation to the private sector , while others, e.g., mortuary affairs and honor guard, are strictly military in nature. In any case, all functions and...similar to its private sector commercial hotel or motel counterpart. Air Force personnel traveling as * part of their duty requirement are required to stay...oriented management style prevalent in both the private and public sector ; this is not the case. The question becomes whether one -17 wants to push the

[Ethical aspects of regenerative medicine, with special reference to embryonic stem cells and therapeutic cloning].

PubMed

Imura, Hiroo

2003-03-01

Regenerative medicine is expected to be new therapeutic means for treating incurable diseases but requires serious bioethical consideration. Embryonic stem(ES) cells, that are pleuripotent cells suitable to regenerative medicine, can be used in Japan for investigative use under a strict control by guide-lines. On the other hand, use of embryo produced by nuclear transfer has not been allowed in Japan and further serious consideration is required. Some other ethical aspects of regenerative medicine are also discussed.

The Vanadium Iodoperoxidase from the Marine Flavobacteriaceae Species Zobellia galactanivorans Reveals Novel Molecular and Evolutionary Features of Halide Specificity in the Vanadium Haloperoxidase Enzyme Family

PubMed Central

Fournier, Jean-Baptiste; Rebuffet, Etienne; Delage, Ludovic; Grijol, Romain; Meslet-Cladière, Laurence; Rzonca, Justyna; Potin, Philippe; Michel, Gurvan; Czjzek, Mirjam

2014-01-01

Vanadium haloperoxidases (VHPO) are key enzymes that oxidize halides and are involved in the biosynthesis of organo-halogens. Until now, only chloroperoxidases (VCPO) and bromoperoxidases (VBPO) have been characterized structurally, mainly from eukaryotic species. Three putative VHPO genes were predicted in the genome of the flavobacterium Zobellia galactanivorans, a marine bacterium associated with macroalgae. In a phylogenetic analysis, these putative bacterial VHPO were closely related to other VHPO from diverse bacterial phyla but clustered independently from eukaryotic algal VBPO and fungal VCPO. Two of these bacterial VHPO, heterogeneously produced in Escherichia coli, were found to be strictly specific for iodide oxidation. The crystal structure of one of these vanadium-dependent iodoperoxidases, Zg-VIPO1, was solved by multiwavelength anomalous diffraction at 1.8 Å, revealing a monomeric structure mainly folded into α-helices. This three-dimensional structure is relatively similar to those of VCPO of the fungus Curvularia inaequalis and of Streptomyces sp. and is superimposable onto the dimeric structure of algal VBPO. Surprisingly, the vanadate binding site of Zg-VIPO1 is strictly conserved with the fungal VCPO active site. Using site-directed mutagenesis, we showed that specific amino acids and the associated hydrogen bonding network around the vanadate center are essential for the catalytic properties and also the iodide specificity of Zg-VIPO1. Altogether, phylogeny and structure-function data support the finding that iodoperoxidase activities evolved independently in bacterial and algal lineages, and this sheds light on the evolution of the VHPO enzyme family. PMID:25261522

Dual function of Rpn5 in two PCI complexes, the 26S proteasome and COP9 signalosome.

PubMed

Yu, Zanlin; Kleifeld, Oded; Lande-Atir, Avigail; Bsoul, Maisa; Kleiman, Maya; Krutauz, Daria; Book, Adam; Vierstra, Richard D; Hofmann, Kay; Reis, Noa; Glickman, Michael H; Pick, Elah

2011-04-01

Subunit composition and architectural structure of the 26S proteasome lid is strictly conserved between all eukaryotes. This eight-subunit complex bears high similarity to the eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 and to the COP9 signalosome (CSN), which together define the proteasome CSN/COP9/initiation factor (PCI) troika. In some unicellular eukaryotes, the latter two complexes lack key subunits, encouraging questions about the conservation of their structural design. Here we demonstrate that, in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Rpn5 plays dual roles by stabilizing proteasome and CSN structures independently. Proteasome and CSN complexes are easily dissected, with Rpn5 the only subunit in common. Together with Rpn5, we identified a total of six bona fide subunits at roughly stoichiometric ratios in isolated, affinity-purified CSN. Moreover, the copy of Rpn5 associated with the CSN is required for enzymatic hydrolysis of Rub1/Nedd8 conjugated to cullins. We propose that multitasking by a single subunit, Rpn5 in this case, allows it to function in different complexes simultaneously. These observations demonstrate that functional substitution of subunits by paralogues is feasible, implying that the canonical composition of the three PCI complexes in S. cerevisiae is more robust than hitherto appreciated.

Surface- and Contour-Preserving Origamic Architecture Paper Pop-Ups.

PubMed

Le, Sang N; Leow, Su-Jun; Le-Nguyen, Tuong-Vu; Ruiz, Conrado; Low, Kok-Lim

2013-08-02

Origamic architecture (OA) is a form of papercraft that involves cutting and folding a single sheet of paper to produce a 3D pop-up, and is commonly used to depict architectural structures. Because of the strict geometric and physical constraints, OA design requires considerable skill and effort. In this paper, we present a method to automatically generate an OA design that closely depicts an input 3D model. Our algorithm is guided by a novel set of geometric conditions to guarantee the foldability and stability of the generated pop-ups. The generality of the conditions allows our algorithm to generate valid pop-up structures that are previously not accounted for by other algorithms. Our method takes a novel image-domain approach to convert the input model to an OA design. It performs surface segmentation of the input model in the image domain, and carefully represents each surface with a set of parallel patches. Patches are then modified to make the entire structure foldable and stable. Visual and quantitative comparisons of results have shown our algorithm to be significantly better than the existing methods in the preservation of contours, surfaces and volume. The designs have also been shown to more closely resemble those created by real artists.

Surface and contour-preserving origamic architecture paper pop-ups.

PubMed

Le, Sang N; Leow, Su-Jun; Le-Nguyen, Tuong-Vu; Ruiz, Conrado; Low, Kok-Lim

2014-02-01

Origamic architecture (OA) is a form of papercraft that involves cutting and folding a single sheet of paper to produce a 3D pop-up, and is commonly used to depict architectural structures. Because of the strict geometric and physical constraints, OA design requires considerable skill and effort. In this paper, we present a method to automatically generate an OA design that closely depicts an input 3D model. Our algorithm is guided by a novel set of geometric conditions to guarantee the foldability and stability of the generated pop-ups. The generality of the conditions allows our algorithm to generate valid pop-up structures that are previously not accounted for by other algorithms. Our method takes a novel image-domain approach to convert the input model to an OA design. It performs surface segmentation of the input model in the image domain, and carefully represents each surface with a set of parallel patches. Patches are then modified to make the entire structure foldable and stable. Visual and quantitative comparisons of results have shown our algorithm to be significantly better than the existing methods in the preservation of contours, surfaces, and volume. The designs have also been shown to more closely resemble those created by real artists.

Nuclear scaffold attachment stimulates, but is not essential for ARS activity in Saccharomyces cerevisiae: analysis of the Drosophila ftz SAR.

PubMed Central

Amati, B; Pick, L; Laroche, T; Gasser, S M

1990-01-01

Nuclei isolated from eukaryotic cells can be depleted of histones and most soluble nuclear proteins to isolate a structural framework called the nuclear scaffold. This structure maintains specific interactions with genomic DNA at sites known as scaffold attached regions (SARs), which are thought to be the bases of DNA loops. In both Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Schizosaccharomyces pombe, genomic ARS elements are recovered as SARs. In addition, SARs from Drosophila melanogaster bind to yeast nuclear scaffolds in vitro and a subclass of these promotes autonomous replication of plasmids in yeast. In the present report, we present fine mapping studies of the Drosophila ftz SAR, which has both SAR and ARS activities in yeast. The data establish a close relationship between the sequences involved in ARS activity and scaffold binding: ARS elements that can bind the nuclear scaffold in vitro promote more efficient plasmid replication in vivo, but scaffold association is not a strict prerequisite for ARS function. Efficient interaction with nuclear scaffolds from both yeast and Drosophila requires a minimal length of SAR DNA that contains reiteration of a narrow minor groove structure of the double helix. Images Fig. 1. Fig. 2. Fig. 3. Fig. 4. PMID:2123454

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bahl, C.; Morisseau, C; Bomberger, J

Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) inhibitory factor (Cif) is a virulence factor secreted by Pseudomonas aeruginosa that reduces the quantity of CFTR in the apical membrane of human airway epithelial cells. Initial sequence analysis suggested that Cif is an epoxide hydrolase (EH), but its sequence violates two strictly conserved EH motifs and also is compatible with other {alpha}/{beta} hydrolase family members with diverse substrate specificities. To investigate the mechanistic basis of Cif activity, we have determined its structure at 1.8-{angstrom} resolution by X-ray crystallography. The catalytic triad consists of residues Asp129, His297, and Glu153, which are conserved across themore » family of EHs. At other positions, sequence deviations from canonical EH active-site motifs are stereochemically conservative. Furthermore, detailed enzymatic analysis confirms that Cif catalyzes the hydrolysis of epoxide compounds, with specific activity against both epibromohydrin and cis-stilbene oxide, but with a relatively narrow range of substrate selectivity. Although closely related to two other classes of {alpha}/{beta} hydrolase in both sequence and structure, Cif does not exhibit activity as either a haloacetate dehalogenase or a haloalkane dehalogenase. A reassessment of the structural and functional consequences of the H269A mutation suggests that Cif's effect on host-cell CFTR expression requires the hydrolysis of an extended endogenous epoxide substrate.« less

Generalised Sandpile Dynamics on Artificial and Real-World Directed Networks

PubMed Central

Zachariou, Nicky; Expert, Paul; Takayasu, Misako; Christensen, Kim

2015-01-01

The main finding of this paper is a novel avalanche-size exponent τ ≈ 1.87 when the generalised sandpile dynamics evolves on the real-world Japanese inter-firm network. The topology of this network is non-layered and directed, displaying the typical bow tie structure found in real-world directed networks, with cycles and triangles. We show that one can move from a strictly layered regular lattice to a more fluid structure of the inter-firm network in a few simple steps. Relaxing the regular lattice structure by introducing an interlayer distribution for the interactions, forces the scaling exponent of the avalanche-size probability density function τ out of the two-dimensional directed sandpile universality class τ = 4/3, into the mean field universality class τ = 3/2. Numerical investigation shows that these two classes are the only that exist on the directed sandpile, regardless of the underlying topology, as long as it is strictly layered. Randomly adding a small proportion of links connecting non adjacent layers in an otherwise layered network takes the system out of the mean field regime to produce non-trivial avalanche-size probability density function. Although these do not display proper scaling, they closely reproduce the behaviour observed on the Japanese inter-firm network. PMID:26606143

Generalised Sandpile Dynamics on Artificial and Real-World Directed Networks.

PubMed

Zachariou, Nicky; Expert, Paul; Takayasu, Misako; Christensen, Kim

2015-01-01

The main finding of this paper is a novel avalanche-size exponent τ ≈ 1.87 when the generalised sandpile dynamics evolves on the real-world Japanese inter-firm network. The topology of this network is non-layered and directed, displaying the typical bow tie structure found in real-world directed networks, with cycles and triangles. We show that one can move from a strictly layered regular lattice to a more fluid structure of the inter-firm network in a few simple steps. Relaxing the regular lattice structure by introducing an interlayer distribution for the interactions, forces the scaling exponent of the avalanche-size probability density function τ out of the two-dimensional directed sandpile universality class τ = 4/3, into the mean field universality class τ = 3/2. Numerical investigation shows that these two classes are the only that exist on the directed sandpile, regardless of the underlying topology, as long as it is strictly layered. Randomly adding a small proportion of links connecting non adjacent layers in an otherwise layered network takes the system out of the mean field regime to produce non-trivial avalanche-size probability density function. Although these do not display proper scaling, they closely reproduce the behaviour observed on the Japanese inter-firm network.

Crystal structure of botulinum neurotoxin type A in complex with the cell surface co-receptor GT1b-insight into the toxin-neuron interaction.

PubMed

Stenmark, Pål; Dupuy, Jérôme; Imamura, Akihiro; Kiso, Makoto; Stevens, Raymond C

2008-08-15

Botulinum neurotoxins have a very high affinity and specificity for their target cells requiring two different co-receptors located on the neuronal cell surface. Different toxin serotypes have different protein receptors; yet, most share a common ganglioside co-receptor, GT1b. We determined the crystal structure of the botulinum neurotoxin serotype A binding domain (residues 873-1297) alone and in complex with a GT1b analog at 1.7 A and 1.6 A, respectively. The ganglioside GT1b forms several key hydrogen bonds to conserved residues and binds in a shallow groove lined by Tryptophan 1266. GT1b binding does not induce any large structural changes in the toxin; therefore, it is unlikely that allosteric effects play a major role in the dual receptor recognition. Together with the previously published structures of botulinum neurotoxin serotype B in complex with its protein co-receptor, we can now generate a detailed model of botulinum neurotoxin's interaction with the neuronal cell surface. The two branches of the GT1b polysaccharide, together with the protein receptor site, impose strict geometric constraints on the mode of interaction with the membrane surface and strongly support a model where one end of the 100 A long translocation domain helix bundle swing into contact with the membrane, initiating the membrane anchoring event.

7 CFR 28.416 - Strict Good Ordinary Light Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Strict Good Ordinary Light Spotted Color. 28.416... CONTAINER REGULATIONS COTTON CLASSING, TESTING, AND STANDARDS Standards Light Spotted Cotton § 28.416 Strict Good Ordinary Light Spotted Color. Strict Good Ordinary Light Spotted Color is color which in spot or...

7 CFR 28.416 - Strict Good Ordinary Light Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Strict Good Ordinary Light Spotted Color. 28.416... CONTAINER REGULATIONS COTTON CLASSING, TESTING, AND STANDARDS Standards Light Spotted Cotton § 28.416 Strict Good Ordinary Light Spotted Color. Strict Good Ordinary Light Spotted Color is color which in spot or...

7 CFR 28.416 - Strict Good Ordinary Light Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Strict Good Ordinary Light Spotted Color. 28.416... CONTAINER REGULATIONS COTTON CLASSING, TESTING, AND STANDARDS Standards Light Spotted Cotton § 28.416 Strict Good Ordinary Light Spotted Color. Strict Good Ordinary Light Spotted Color is color which in spot or...

7 CFR 28.416 - Strict Good Ordinary Light Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Strict Good Ordinary Light Spotted Color. 28.416... CONTAINER REGULATIONS COTTON CLASSING, TESTING, AND STANDARDS Standards Light Spotted Cotton § 28.416 Strict Good Ordinary Light Spotted Color. Strict Good Ordinary Light Spotted Color is color which in spot or...

7 CFR 28.412 - Strict Middling Light Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Strict Middling Light Spotted Color. 28.412 Section 28... REGULATIONS COTTON CLASSING, TESTING, AND STANDARDS Standards Light Spotted Cotton § 28.412 Strict Middling Light Spotted Color. Strict Middling Light Spotted Color is color which in spot or color, or both, is...

7 CFR 28.414 - Strict Low Middling Light Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Strict Low Middling Light Spotted Color. 28.414... CONTAINER REGULATIONS COTTON CLASSING, TESTING, AND STANDARDS Standards Light Spotted Cotton § 28.414 Strict Low Middling Light Spotted Color. Strict Low Middling Light Spotted Color is color which in spot or...

7 CFR 28.414 - Strict Low Middling Light Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Strict Low Middling Light Spotted Color. 28.414... CONTAINER REGULATIONS COTTON CLASSING, TESTING, AND STANDARDS Standards Light Spotted Cotton § 28.414 Strict Low Middling Light Spotted Color. Strict Low Middling Light Spotted Color is color which in spot or...

7 CFR 28.416 - Strict Good Ordinary Light Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Strict Good Ordinary Light Spotted Color. 28.416... CONTAINER REGULATIONS COTTON CLASSING, TESTING, AND STANDARDS Standards Light Spotted Cotton § 28.416 Strict Good Ordinary Light Spotted Color. Strict Good Ordinary Light Spotted Color is color which in spot or...

7 CFR 28.414 - Strict Low Middling Light Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Strict Low Middling Light Spotted Color. 28.414... CONTAINER REGULATIONS COTTON CLASSING, TESTING, AND STANDARDS Standards Light Spotted Cotton § 28.414 Strict Low Middling Light Spotted Color. Strict Low Middling Light Spotted Color is color which in spot or...

7 CFR 28.412 - Strict Middling Light Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Strict Middling Light Spotted Color. 28.412 Section 28... REGULATIONS COTTON CLASSING, TESTING, AND STANDARDS Standards Light Spotted Cotton § 28.412 Strict Middling Light Spotted Color. Strict Middling Light Spotted Color is color which in spot or color, or both, is...

7 CFR 28.412 - Strict Middling Light Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Strict Middling Light Spotted Color. 28.412 Section 28... REGULATIONS COTTON CLASSING, TESTING, AND STANDARDS Standards Light Spotted Cotton § 28.412 Strict Middling Light Spotted Color. Strict Middling Light Spotted Color is color which in spot or color, or both, is...

7 CFR 28.414 - Strict Low Middling Light Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Strict Low Middling Light Spotted Color. 28.414... CONTAINER REGULATIONS COTTON CLASSING, TESTING, AND STANDARDS Standards Light Spotted Cotton § 28.414 Strict Low Middling Light Spotted Color. Strict Low Middling Light Spotted Color is color which in spot or...

7 CFR 28.414 - Strict Low Middling Light Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Strict Low Middling Light Spotted Color. 28.414... CONTAINER REGULATIONS COTTON CLASSING, TESTING, AND STANDARDS Standards Light Spotted Cotton § 28.414 Strict Low Middling Light Spotted Color. Strict Low Middling Light Spotted Color is color which in spot or...

7 CFR 28.412 - Strict Middling Light Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Strict Middling Light Spotted Color. 28.412 Section 28... REGULATIONS COTTON CLASSING, TESTING, AND STANDARDS Standards Light Spotted Cotton § 28.412 Strict Middling Light Spotted Color. Strict Middling Light Spotted Color is color which in spot or color, or both, is...

7 CFR 28.402 - Strict Middling Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Strict Middling Color. 28.402 Section 28.402... for the Color Grade of American Upland Cotton § 28.402 Strict Middling Color. Strict Middling Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of samples in the custody of the United States...

7 CFR 28.402 - Strict Middling Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Strict Middling Color. 28.402 Section 28.402... for the Color Grade of American Upland Cotton § 28.402 Strict Middling Color. Strict Middling Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of samples in the custody of the United States...

7 CFR 28.402 - Strict Middling Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Strict Middling Color. 28.402 Section 28.402... for the Color Grade of American Upland Cotton § 28.402 Strict Middling Color. Strict Middling Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of samples in the custody of the United States...

7 CFR 28.402 - Strict Middling Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Strict Middling Color. 28.402 Section 28.402... for the Color Grade of American Upland Cotton § 28.402 Strict Middling Color. Strict Middling Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of samples in the custody of the United States...

7 CFR 28.402 - Strict Middling Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Strict Middling Color. 28.402 Section 28.402... for the Color Grade of American Upland Cotton § 28.402 Strict Middling Color. Strict Middling Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of samples in the custody of the United States...

Managing Risk to Ensure a Successful Cassini/Huygens Saturn Orbit Insertion (SOI)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Witkowski, Mona M.; Huh, Shin M.; Burt, John B.; Webster, Julie L.

2004-01-01

I. Design: a) S/C designed to be largely single fault tolerant; b) Operate in flight demonstrated envelope, with margin; and c) Strict compliance with requirements & flight rules. II. Test: a) Baseline, fault & stress testing using flight system testbeds (H/W & S/W); b) In-flight checkout & demos to remove first time events. III. Failure Analysis: a) Critical event driven fault tree analysis; b) Risk mitigation & development of contingencies. IV) Residual Risks: a) Accepted pre-launch waivers to Single Point Failures; b) Unavoidable risks (e.g. natural disaster). V) Mission Assurance: a) Strict process for characterization of variances (ISAs, PFRs & Waivers; b) Full time Mission Assurance Manager reports to Program Manager: 1) Independent assessment of compliance with institutional standards; 2) Oversight & risk assessment of ISAs, PFRs & Waivers etc.; and 3) Risk Management Process facilitator.

12 CFR 269b.710 - Rules to be liberally construed.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... compliance with the terms of the rules and regulations in this subchapter will work an injustice or... and to effectuate the purposes of the policy. (b) When an act is required or allowed to be done at or... shall be manifest that strict adherence will work surprise or injustice or interfere with the proper...

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Supplement to IUCN Bulletin, 1973

1973-01-01

Concern for the endangered species of wild animals and plants of the world prompted the drafting of this international convention regulating the import, export, and re-export of such species. Nations signing this document are required to impose strict controls on the international trade of these plants and animals or their recognizable parts. The…

Tree injury and mortality in fires: developing process-based models

Treesearch

Bret W. Butler; Matthew B. Dickinson

2010-01-01

Wildland fire managers are often required to predict tree injury and mortality when planning a prescribed burn or when considering wildfire management options; and, currently, statistical models based on post-fire observations are the only tools available for this purpose. Implicit in the derivation of statistical models is the assumption that they are strictly...

Behaviour after Cerebral Lesions in Children and Adults (1962)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bishop, Dorothy

2008-01-01

It is generally believed that brain injuries vary in their effects according to the age at which they are sustained, but the nature and extent of these differences remain elusive. A full enquiry requires, ideally, the study of strictly comparable lesions in the young and the old, the opportunity for follow-up examinations extending over decades in…

Completion of Embankment and Spillway, Joe Pool Lake, Mountain Creek, Texas.

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-02-01

approval. The strictly enforced time limitations, described above, eliminated any requirement for treatment of the exposed rock surfaces using moisture...34 *- FI 2L- -. CA6 70 -k 8A- - 7. , 7 L;...2t-ztt L*55PA 5$ __DA_____PEOO .. .. ... .... .>. __.. .. . L trA ~.’- AI2ZP ".M.s -# -s _e4- or

The Research Potential of Educational Theory: On the Specific Characteristics of the Issues of Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Les, Tomasz

2017-01-01

In this article, I present the argument that educational theory has specific character, which distinguishes it from most scientific disciplines. It requires the application of not only strictly scientific methods, which essentially consist of descriptions and explanations, but also normative ones, which indicate how it is related to philosophy and…

The Foreign Language and Intercultural Competence Teacher: The Acquisition of a New Professional Identity

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sercu, Lies

2006-01-01

It has now become commonplace to state that foreign language learning should be viewed in an intercultural perspective. The main objective of foreign language education is no longer defined strictly in terms of the acquisition of communicative competence. Teachers are now required to teach intercultural communicative competence. The aim of the…

Constitutional Requirements for Affirmative Action in Higher Education Admissions and Financial Aid.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Harvard Civil Rights Project, Cambridge, MA.

Race-conscious affirmative action programs in higher education are subject to strict scrutiny, which is the highest standard of review used by the courts to evaluate a policy's constitutionality. The courts employ a two-part test, examining whether the policy serves a compelling governmental interest (the underlying goal of the policy must be…

NCLB Waivers: Good News and Bad News

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

House, Jenny

2013-01-01

When the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) became law in 2002, it provided large sums of money to states for education. The program also had very strict performance requirements, including a 2014 deadline for all students to be proficient in mathematics and language arts. To provide some relief from the provisions of NCLB, the Obama administration…

The stability of coupled renewal-differential equations with econometric applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rhoten, R. P.; Aggarwal, J. K.

1969-01-01

Concepts and results are presented in the fields of mathematical modeling, economics, and stability analysis. A coupled renewal-differential equation structure is presented as a modeling form for systems possessing hereditary characteristics, and this structure is applied to a model of the Austrian theory of business cycles. For realistic conditions, the system is shown to have an infinite number of poles, and conditions are presented which are both necessary and sufficient for all poles to lie strictly in the left half plane.

Peptoid architectures: elaboration, actuation, and application.

PubMed

Yoo, Barney; Kirshenbaum, Kent

2008-12-01

Peptoids are peptidomimetic oligomers composed of N-substituted glycine units. Their convenient synthesis enables strict control over the sequence of highly diverse monomers and is capable of generating extensive compound libraries. Recent studies are beginning to explore the relationship between peptoid sequence, structure and function. We describe new approaches to direct the conformation of the peptoid backbone, leading to secondary structures such as helices, loops, and turns. These advances are enabling the discovery of bioactive peptoids and will establish modules for the design and assembly of protein mimetics.

7 CFR 28.404 - Strict Low Middling Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Strict Low Middling Color. 28.404 Section 28.404... for the Color Grade of American Upland Cotton § 28.404 Strict Low Middling Color. Strict Low Middling Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of samples in the custody of the United...

7 CFR 28.406 - Strict Good Ordinary Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Strict Good Ordinary Color. 28.406 Section 28.406... for the Color Grade of American Upland Cotton § 28.406 Strict Good Ordinary Color. Strict Good Ordinary Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of samples in the custody of the...

7 CFR 28.404 - Strict Low Middling Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Strict Low Middling Color. 28.404 Section 28.404... for the Color Grade of American Upland Cotton § 28.404 Strict Low Middling Color. Strict Low Middling Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of samples in the custody of the United...

7 CFR 28.404 - Strict Low Middling Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Strict Low Middling Color. 28.404 Section 28.404... for the Color Grade of American Upland Cotton § 28.404 Strict Low Middling Color. Strict Low Middling Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of samples in the custody of the United...

7 CFR 28.406 - Strict Good Ordinary Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Strict Good Ordinary Color. 28.406 Section 28.406... for the Color Grade of American Upland Cotton § 28.406 Strict Good Ordinary Color. Strict Good Ordinary Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of samples in the custody of the...

7 CFR 28.406 - Strict Good Ordinary Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Strict Good Ordinary Color. 28.406 Section 28.406... for the Color Grade of American Upland Cotton § 28.406 Strict Good Ordinary Color. Strict Good Ordinary Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of samples in the custody of the...

7 CFR 28.406 - Strict Good Ordinary Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Strict Good Ordinary Color. 28.406 Section 28.406... for the Color Grade of American Upland Cotton § 28.406 Strict Good Ordinary Color. Strict Good Ordinary Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of samples in the custody of the...

7 CFR 28.404 - Strict Low Middling Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Strict Low Middling Color. 28.404 Section 28.404... for the Color Grade of American Upland Cotton § 28.404 Strict Low Middling Color. Strict Low Middling Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of samples in the custody of the United...

7 CFR 28.406 - Strict Good Ordinary Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Strict Good Ordinary Color. 28.406 Section 28.406... for the Color Grade of American Upland Cotton § 28.406 Strict Good Ordinary Color. Strict Good Ordinary Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of samples in the custody of the...

7 CFR 28.404 - Strict Low Middling Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Strict Low Middling Color. 28.404 Section 28.404... for the Color Grade of American Upland Cotton § 28.404 Strict Low Middling Color. Strict Low Middling Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of samples in the custody of the United...

Biochemical and structural characterization of recombinant short-chain NAD(H)-dependent dehydrogenase/reductase from Sulfolobus acidocaldarius highly enantioselective on diaryl diketone benzil.

PubMed

Pennacchio, Angela; Sannino, Vincenzo; Sorrentino, Giosuè; Rossi, Mosè; Raia, Carlo A; Esposito, Luciana

2013-05-01

The gene encoding a novel alcohol dehydrogenase that belongs to the short-chain dehydrogenases/reductases superfamily was identified in the aerobic thermoacidophilic crenarchaeon Sulfolobus acidocaldarius strain DSM 639. The saadh2 gene was heterologously overexpressed in Escherichia coli, and the resulting protein (SaADH2) was purified to homogeneity and both biochemically and structurally characterized. The crystal structure of the SaADH2 NADH-bound form reveals that the enzyme is a tetramer consisting of identical 27,024-Da subunits, each composed of 255 amino acids. The enzyme has remarkable thermophilicity and thermal stability, displaying activity at temperatures up to 80 °C and a 30-min half-inactivation temperature of ∼88 °C. It also shows good tolerance to common organic solvents and a strict requirement for NAD(H) as the coenzyme. SaADH2 displays a preference for the reduction of alicyclic, bicyclic and aromatic ketones and α-ketoesters, but is poorly active on aliphatic, cyclic and aromatic alcohols, showing no activity on aldehydes. Interestingly, the enzyme catalyses the asymmetric reduction of benzil to (R)-benzoin with both excellent conversion (98 %) and optical purity (98 %) by way of an efficient in situ NADH-recycling system involving a second thermophilic ADH. The crystal structure of the binary complex SaADH2-NADH, determined at 1.75 Å resolution, reveals details of the active site providing hints on the structural basis of the enzyme enantioselectivity.

Creativity in the Structure of Professionalism of a Higher School Teacher

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gladilina, Irina Petrovna

2016-01-01

In the science, due to the absence of strict and exact criteria for differentiating between creative and non-creative activities of a human, there is no rather full definition of "creativity" notion despite that this matter was addressed by many scholars. Multifactor field in the science on creativity allows interpreting the essence of…

The Processing and Interpretation of Verb Phrase Ellipsis Constructions by Children at Normal and Slowed Speech Rates

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Callahan, Sarah M.; Walenski, Matthew; Love, Tracy

2012-01-01

Purpose: To examine children's comprehension of verb phrase (VP) ellipsis constructions in light of their automatic, online structural processing abilities and conscious, metalinguistic reflective skill. Method: Forty-two children ages 5 through 12 years listened to VP ellipsis constructions involving the strict/sloppy ambiguity (e.g., "The…

Prediction of adherence to a gluten-free diet using protection motivation theory among adults with coeliac disease.

PubMed

Dowd, A J; Jung, M E; Chen, M Y; Beauchamp, M R

2016-06-01

Coeliac disease is a chronic autoimmune disease that requires strict adherence to a gluten-free diet. However, strict adherence to a gluten-free diet is difficult, with findings from a recent review suggesting that up to 42% of individuals with coeliac disease do not eat a strict gluten-free diet. The present study aimed to examine psychosocial predictors of adherence (purposeful and accidental) to a gluten-free diet among adults with coeliac disease over a 1-month period. In this longitudinal study, 212 North American adults with coeliac disease completed online questionnaires at two time points, baseline and 1 month later. The results revealed that intentions partially mediated the effects of symptom severity, self-regulatory efficacy, planning and knowledge on purposeful gluten consumption. Intentions did not mediate the effects of severity, response cost, self-regulatory efficacy, planning and knowledge for accidental gluten consumption but, interestingly, self-regulatory efficacy directly predicted fewer accidental incidents of gluten-consumption. These findings delineate the differential psychological processes in understanding accidental and purposeful gluten consumption among adults with coeliac disease and emphasise the importance of bolstering self-regulatory efficacy beliefs to prevent accidental and purposeful consumption of gluten. © 2015 The British Dietetic Association Ltd.

A Review of Selective Laser Melted NiTi Shape Memory Alloy

PubMed Central

Khoo, Zhong Xun; Shen, Yu Fang

2018-01-01

NiTi shape memory alloys (SMAs) have the best combination of properties among the different SMAs. However, the limitations of conventional manufacturing processes and the poor manufacturability of NiTi have critically limited its full potential applicability. Thus, additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing, has the potential to be a solution in fabricating complex NiTi smart structures. Recently, a number of studies on Selective Laser Melting (SLM) of NiTi were conducted to explore the various aspects of SLM-produced NiTi. Compared to producing conventional metals through the SLM process, the fabrication of NiTi SMA is much more challenging. Not only do the produced parts require a high density that leads to good mechanical properties, strict composition control is needed as well for the SLM NiTi to possess suitable phase transformation characteristics. Additionally, obtaining a good shape memory effect from the SLM NiTi samples is another challenging task that requires further understanding. This paper presents the results of the effects of energy density and SLM process parameters on the properties of SLM NiTi. Its shape memory properties and potential applications were then reviewed and discussed. PMID:29596320

Theoretical considerations and measurements for phoropters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Jiyan; Liu, Wenli; Sun, Jie

2008-10-01

A phoropter is one of the most popular ophthalmic instruments used in current optometry practice. The quality and verification of the instrument are of the utmost importance. In 1997, International Organization for Standardization published the first ISO standard for requirements of phoropters. However, in China, few standard and test method are suggested for phoropters. Research work on test method for phoropters was carried out early in 2004 by China National Institute of Metrology. In this paper, first, structure of phoropters is described. Then, theoretical considerations for its optical design are analyzed. Next, a newly developed instrument is introduced and measurements are taken. By calibration, the indication error of the instrument is not over 0.05m-1. Finally, measurement results show that the quality situation of phoropters is not as good as expected because of production and assembly error. Optical design shall be improved especially for combinations of both spherical and cylindrical lenses with higher power. Besides, optical requirements specified in ISO standard are found to be a little strict and hard to meet. A proposal for revision of this international standard is drafted and discussed on ISO meeting of 2007 held in Tokyo.

Clustered Genes Encoding 2-Keto-l-Gulonate Reductase and l-Idonate 5-Dehydrogenase in the Novel Fungal d-Glucuronic Acid Pathway

PubMed Central

Kuivanen, Joosu; Arvas, Mikko; Richard, Peter

2017-01-01

D-Glucuronic acid is a biomass component that occurs in plant cell wall polysaccharides and is catabolized by saprotrophic microorganisms including fungi. A pathway for D-glucuronic acid catabolism in fungal microorganisms is only partly known. In the filamentous fungus Aspergillus niger, the enzymes that are known to be part of the pathway are the NADPH requiring D-glucuronic acid reductase forming L-gulonate and the NADH requiring 2-keto-L-gulonate reductase that forms L-idonate. With the aid of RNA sequencing we identified two more enzymes of the pathway. The first is a NADPH requiring 2-keto-L-gulonate reductase that forms L-idonate, GluD. The second is a NAD+ requiring L-idonate 5-dehydrogenase forming 5-keto-gluconate, GluE. The genes coding for these two enzymes are clustered and share the same bidirectional promoter. The GluD is an enzyme with a strict requirement for NADP+/NADPH as cofactors. The kcat for 2-keto-L-gulonate and L-idonate is 21.4 and 1.1 s-1, and the Km 25.3 and 12.6 mM, respectively, when using the purified protein. In contrast, the GluE has a strict requirement for NAD+/NADH. The kcat for L-idonate and 5-keto-D-gluconate is 5.5 and 7.2 s-1, and the Km 30.9 and 8.4 mM, respectively. These values also refer to the purified protein. The gluD deletion resulted in accumulation of 2-keto-L-gulonate in the liquid cultivation while the gluE deletion resulted in reduced growth and cessation of the D-glucuronic acid catabolism. PMID:28261181

On the suitability of the connection machine for direct particle simulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dagum, Leonard

1990-01-01

The algorithmic structure was examined of the vectorizable Stanford particle simulation (SPS) method and the structure is reformulated in data parallel form. Some of the SPS algorithms can be directly translated to data parallel, but several of the vectorizable algorithms have no direct data parallel equivalent. This requires the development of new, strictly data parallel algorithms. In particular, a new sorting algorithm is developed to identify collision candidates in the simulation and a master/slave algorithm is developed to minimize communication cost in large table look up. Validation of the method is undertaken through test calculations for thermal relaxation of a gas, shock wave profiles, and shock reflection from a stationary wall. A qualitative measure is provided of the performance of the Connection Machine for direct particle simulation. The massively parallel architecture of the Connection Machine is found quite suitable for this type of calculation. However, there are difficulties in taking full advantage of this architecture because of lack of a broad based tradition of data parallel programming. An important outcome of this work has been new data parallel algorithms specifically of use for direct particle simulation but which also expand the data parallel diction.

A Network-Based Algorithm for Clustering Multivariate Repeated Measures Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koslovsky, Matthew; Arellano, John; Schaefer, Caroline; Feiveson, Alan; Young, Millennia; Lee, Stuart

2017-01-01

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Astronaut Corps is a unique occupational cohort for which vast amounts of measures data have been collected repeatedly in research or operational studies pre-, in-, and post-flight, as well as during multiple clinical care visits. In exploratory analyses aimed at generating hypotheses regarding physiological changes associated with spaceflight exposure, such as impaired vision, it is of interest to identify anomalies and trends across these expansive datasets. Multivariate clustering algorithms for repeated measures data may help parse the data to identify homogeneous groups of astronauts that have higher risks for a particular physiological change. However, available clustering methods may not be able to accommodate the complex data structures found in NASA data, since the methods often rely on strict model assumptions, require equally-spaced and balanced assessment times, cannot accommodate missing data or differing time scales across variables, and cannot process continuous and discrete data simultaneously. To fill this gap, we propose a network-based, multivariate clustering algorithm for repeated measures data that can be tailored to fit various research settings. Using simulated data, we demonstrate how our method can be used to identify patterns in complex data structures found in practice.

Thermal depth profiling of vascular lesions: automated regularization of reconstruction algorithms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Verkruysse, Wim; Choi, Bernard; Zhang, Jenny R.; Kim, Jeehyun; Nelson, J. Stuart

2008-03-01

Pulsed photo-thermal radiometry (PPTR) is a non-invasive, non-contact diagnostic technique used to locate cutaneous chromophores such as melanin (epidermis) and hemoglobin (vascular structures). Clinical utility of PPTR is limited because it typically requires trained user intervention to regularize the inversion solution. Herein, the feasibility of automated regularization was studied. A second objective of this study was to depart from modeling port wine stain PWS, a vascular skin lesion frequently studied with PPTR, as strictly layered structures since this may influence conclusions regarding PPTR reconstruction quality. Average blood vessel depths, diameters and densities derived from histology of 30 PWS patients were used to generate 15 randomized lesion geometries for which we simulated PPTR signals. Reconstruction accuracy for subjective regularization was compared with that for automated regularization methods. The objective regularization approach performed better. However, the average difference was much smaller than the variation between the 15 simulated profiles. Reconstruction quality depended more on the actual profile to be reconstructed than on the reconstruction algorithm or regularization method. Similar, or better, accuracy reconstructions can be achieved with an automated regularization procedure which enhances prospects for user friendly implementation of PPTR to optimize laser therapy on an individual patient basis.

Oil shale development and its environmental considerations

USGS Publications Warehouse

Stone, R.T.; Johnson, H.; Decora, A.

1974-01-01

The petroleum shortage recently experienced by many nations throughout the world has created an intense interest in obtaining new and supplemental energy sources. In the United States, this interest has been centered on oil shale. Any major action by the federal government having significant environmental effects requires compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA). Since most oil shale is found on federal lands, and since its development involves significant environmental impacts, leasing oil shale lands to private interests must be in compliance with NEPA. For oil shale, program planning began at approximately the same time that NEPA was signed into law. By structuring the program to permit a resource and technological inventory by industry and the federal agencies, the Department of the Interior was able simultaneously to conduct the environmental assessments required by the act. This required: 1. Clearly defined program objections; 2. An organization which could integrate public policy with diverse scientific disciplines and environmental concerns; and 3. Flexible decisionmaking to adjust to policy changes as well as to evolving interpretations on EPA as clarified by court decisions. This paper outlines the program, the organization structure that was created for this specific task, and the environmental concerns which were investigated. The success of the program has been demonstrated by meeting the requirements of NEPA, without court challenge, and by industry's acceptance of a leasing program that included the most stringent environmental protection provisions ever required. The need for energy development has spurred the acceptance of the program. However, by its awareness and willingness to meet the environmental challenges of the future, industry has shown a reasonable understanding of its commitments. The pros and cons of development were publicly considered in hearings and analyzed in the final environmental statement. This action aided greatly in preventing legal challenges. The prototype oil shale program is now under way and this new energy source, developed with strict environmental safeguards, may soon be available to our nation.

Development and Implementation of a Medication Adherence Training Instrument for Persons Living With HIV: The MATI

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McPherson-Baker, Shvawn; Jones, Deborah; Duran, Ron E.; Klimas, Nancy; Schneiderman, Neil

2005-01-01

Recent advances in the medical management of HIV offer the potential for increased longevity, improved quality of life, and the treatment of HIV as a chronic, rather than terminal, illness. The advent of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has required the necessity of strict adherence to complex medication regimens. As a vital factor in…

BIOCHEMICAL AND GENETIC CHARACTERIZATION OF AN EARLY STEP IN A NOVEL PATHWAY FOR THE BIOSYNTHESIS OF AROMATIC AMINO ACIDS AND P-AMINOBENZOIC ACID IN THE ARCHAEON METHANOCOCCUS MARIPALUDIS

EPA Science Inventory

Methanococcus maripaludis is a strictly anaerobic, methane-producing archaeon and facultative autotroph capable of biosynthesizing all the amino acids and vitamins required for growth. In this work, the novel 6-deoxy-5-ketofructose-1-phosphate (DKFP) pathway for the biosynthesis ...

Adaptation to oxygen: role of terminal oxidases in photosynthesis initiation in the purple photosynthetic bacterium, Rubrivivax gelatinosus.

PubMed

Hassani, Bahia Khalfaoui; Steunou, Anne-Soisig; Liotenberg, Sylviane; Reiss-Husson, Françoise; Astier, Chantal; Ouchane, Soufian

2010-06-25

The appearance of oxygen in the Earth's atmosphere via oxygenic photosynthesis required strict anaerobes and obligate phototrophs to cope with the presence of this toxic molecule. Here we show that in the anoxygenic phototroph Rubrivivax gelatinosus, the terminal oxidases (cbb(3), bd, and caa(3)) expand the range of ambient oxygen tensions under which the organism can initiate photosynthesis. Unlike the wild type, the cbb(3)(-)/bd(-) double mutant can start photosynthesis only in deoxygenated medium or when oxygen is removed, either by sparging cultures with nitrogen or by co-inoculation with strict aerobes bacteria. In oxygenated environments, this mutant survives nonphotosynthetically until the O(2) tension is reduced. The cbb(3) and bd oxidases are therefore required not only for respiration but also for reduction of the environmental O(2) pressure prior to anaerobic photosynthesis. Suppressor mutations that restore respiration simultaneously restore photosynthesis in nondeoxygenated medium. Furthermore, induction of photosystem in the cbb(3)(-) mutant led to a highly unstable strain. These results demonstrate that photosynthetic metabolism in environments exposed to oxygen is critically dependent on the O(2)-detoxifying action of terminal oxidases.

Space tug thermal control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ward, T. L.

1975-01-01

The future development of full capability Space Tug will impose strict requirements upon the thermal design. While requiring a reliable and reusable design, Space Tug must be capable of steady-state and transient thermal operation during any given mission for mission durations of up to seven days and potentially longer periods of time. Maximum flexibility and adaptability of Space Tug to the mission model requires that the vehicle operate within attitude constraints throughout any specific mission. These requirements were translated into a preliminary design study for a geostationary deploy and retrieve mission definition for Space Tug to determine the thermal control design requirements. Results of the study are discussed with emphasis given to some of the unique avenues pursued during the study, as well as the recommended thermal design configuration.

Energy efficient wireless sensor network for structural health monitoring using distributed embedded piezoelectric transducers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Peng; Olmi, Claudio; Song, Gangbing

2010-04-01

Piezoceramic based transducers are widely researched and used for structural health monitoring (SHM) systems due to the piezoceramic material's inherent advantage of dual sensing and actuation. Wireless sensor network (WSN) technology benefits from advances made in piezoceramic based structural health monitoring systems, allowing easy and flexible installation, low system cost, and increased robustness over wired system. However, piezoceramic wireless SHM systems still faces some drawbacks, one of these is that the piezoceramic based SHM systems require relatively high computational capabilities to calculate damage information, however, battery powered WSN sensor nodes have strict power consumption limitation and hence limited computational power. On the other hand, commonly used centralized processing networks require wireless sensors to transmit all data back to the network coordinator for analysis. This signal processing procedure can be problematic for piezoceramic based SHM applications as it is neither energy efficient nor robust. In this paper, we aim to solve these problems with a distributed wireless sensor network for piezoceramic base structural health monitoring systems. Three important issues: power system, waking up from sleep impact detection, and local data processing, are addressed to reach optimized energy efficiency. Instead of sweep sine excitation that was used in the early research, several sine frequencies were used in sequence to excite the concrete structure. The wireless sensors record the sine excitations and compute the time domain energy for each sine frequency locally to detect the energy change. By comparing the data of the damaged concrete frame with the healthy data, we are able to find out the damage information of the concrete frame. A relative powerful wireless microcontroller was used to carry out the sampling and distributed data processing in real-time. The distributed wireless network dramatically reduced the data transmission between wireless sensor and the wireless coordinator, which in turn reduced the power consumption of the overall system.

RIPK3 expression in cervical cancer cells is required for PolyIC-induced necroptosis, IL-1α release, and efficient paracrine dendritic cell activation.

PubMed

Schmidt, Susanne V; Seibert, Stefanie; Walch-Rückheim, Barbara; Vicinus, Benjamin; Kamionka, Eva-Maria; Pahne-Zeppenfeld, Jennifer; Solomayer, Erich-Franz; Kim, Yoo-Jin; Bohle, Rainer M; Smola, Sigrun

2015-04-20

Previous studies have shown that cervical cancer cells only release low levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines owing to infection with human papillomaviruses. This results in low immunogenicity of the cancer cells. The viral dsRNA analog PolyIC has been suggested as a promising adjuvant for cervical cancer immunotherapy. However, little is known about the molecular requirements resulting in successful immune activation. Here, we demonstrate that stimulation of cervical cancer cells with PolyIC induced necroptotic cell death, which was strictly dependent on the expression of the receptor-interacting protein kinase RIPK3. Necroptotic cancer cells released interleukin-1α (IL-1α), which was required for powerful activation of dendritic cells (DC) to produce IL-12, a cytokine critical for anti-tumor responses. Again both, IL-1α release and DC activation, were strictly dependent on RIPK3 expression in the tumor cells. Of note, our in situ analyses revealed heterogeneous RIPK3 expression patterns in cervical squamous cell carcinomas and adenocarcinomas. In summary, our study identified a novel RIPK3-dependent mechanism that explains how PolyIC-treatment of cervical cancer cells leads to potent DC activation. Our findings suggest that the RIPK3 expression status in cervical cancer cells might critically influence the outcome of PolyIC-based immunotherapeutic approaches and should therefore be assessed prior to immunotherapy.

The origins of length contraction: I. The FitzGerald-Lorentz deformation hypothesis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brown, Harvey R.

2001-10-01

"Can there be some point in the theory of Mr. Michelson's experiment which has yet been overlooked?" H. A. Lorentz, letter to Lord Rayleigh, August 1892. One of the widespread confusions concerning the history of the 1887 Michelson-Morley experiment has to do with the initial explanation of this celebrated null result due independently to FitzGerald and Lorentz. In neither case was a strict, longitudinal length contraction hypothesis invoked, as is commonly supposed. Lorentz postulated, particularly in 1895, any one of a certain family of possible deformation effects for rigid bodies in motion, including purely transverse alteration, and expansion as well as contraction; FitzGerald may well have had the same family in mind. A careful analysis of the Michelson-Morley experiment (which reveals a number of serious inadequacies in many textbook treatments) indeed shows that strict contraction is not required.

Action history influences subsequent movement via two distinct processes

PubMed Central

Poh, Eugene; de Rugy, Aymar

2017-01-01

The characteristics of goal-directed actions tend to resemble those of previously executed actions, but it is unclear whether such effects depend strictly on action history, or also reflect context-dependent processes related to predictive motor planning. Here we manipulated the time available to initiate movements after a target was specified, and studied the effects of predictable movement sequences, to systematically dissociate effects of the most recently executed movement from the movement required next. We found that directional biases due to recent movement history strongly depend upon movement preparation time, suggesting an important contribution from predictive planning. However predictive biases co-exist with an independent source of bias that depends only on recent movement history. The results indicate that past experience influences movement execution through a combination of temporally-stable processes that are strictly use-dependent, and dynamically-evolving and context-dependent processes that reflect prediction of future actions. PMID:29058670

Estimates of the fraction of precipitation seedable under application of the Wyoming weather modification pilot project seeding criteria

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ritzman, Jaclyn M.

The objective of the Wyoming Weather Modification Pilot Project is to evaluate the effect of glaciogenic seeding on wintertime precipitation over two co-located barriers in southeast Wyoming. Orographic clouds are to be targeted if they meet strict criteria. An analysis of the impact of seeding requires knowledge of the amount of precipitation that fell from seedable clouds. This amount of precipitation was determined by applying the strict seeding criteria to an eight-year simulation from the Weather Research and Forecasting model at 4-km horizontal resolution. Results from the analysis from the model suggested that the fraction of seedable precipitation was 35.1% (35.5%) over the Sierra Madre and Medicine Bow mountain ranges from 2000-2008. This fraction decreases to 23.2% (23.0%) under a warmer, future climate scenario over the Sierra Madres (Medicine Bows).

Next Generation JPL Ultra-Stable Trapped Ion Atomic Clocks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burt, Eric; Tucker, Blake; Larsen, Kameron; Hamell, Robert; Tjoelker, Robert

2013-01-01

Over the past decade, trapped ion atomic clock development at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) has focused on two directions: 1) new atomic clock technology for space flight applications that require strict adherence to size, weight, and power requirements, and 2) ultra-stable atomic clocks, usually for terrestrial applications emphasizing ultimate performance. In this paper we present a new ultra-stable trapped ion clock designed, built, and tested in the second category. The first new standard, L10, will be delivered to the Naval Research Laboratory for use in characterizing DoD space clocks.

Requirements for the identification of dense-core granules.

PubMed

Meldolesi, Jacopo; Chieregatti, Evelina; Luisa Malosio, Maria

2004-01-01

Dense-core granules (DCGs), cytoplasmic organelles competent for regulated exocytosis, show considerable heterogeneity depending upon the specificity of their expressing cells--primarily neurons and neurosecretory cells. DCGs have been mainly identified by detecting their cargo molecules, often members of the granin family, and using conventional electron microscopy and immunocytochemistry. However, by a critical analysis of the various stages of DCG "life" within neurosecretory cells, we have highlighted several specific molecular and functional properties that are common to all these organelles. We propose that these properties be considered as strict requirements for the identification of DCGs.

Practical quantum appointment scheduling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Touchette, Dave; Lovitz, Benjamin; Lütkenhaus, Norbert

2018-04-01

We propose a protocol based on coherent states and linear optics operations for solving the appointment-scheduling problem. Our main protocol leaks strictly less information about each party's input than the optimal classical protocol, even when considering experimental errors. Along with the ability to generate constant-amplitude coherent states over two modes, this protocol requires the ability to transfer these modes back-and-forth between the two parties multiple times with very low losses. The implementation requirements are thus still challenging. Along the way, we develop tools to study quantum information cost of interactive protocols in the finite regime.

China Report, Economic Affairs, No. 353

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-06-20

INDUSTRY Introduction to Key Projects Throughout Country (Fei Qiangj XINHUA Domestic Service, 27 May 83) 20 Small Tractors Supply in Rural Areas...reforming the commodity circulation system and the industrial management system at the country level, successfully carrying out readjustment in...must vigorously expand economic activitieswith foreign countries . 5. We must strictly observe discipline. 6. We must do well in structural reform

SPAN security policies and guidelines

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sisson, Patricia L.; Green, James L.

1989-01-01

A guide is provided to system security with emphasis on requirements and guidelines that are necessary to maintain an acceptable level of security on the network. To have security for the network, each node on the network must be secure. Therefore, each system manager, must strictly adhere to the requirements and must consider implementing the guidelines discussed. There are areas of vulnerability within the operating system that may not be addressed. However, when a requirement or guideline is discussed, implementation techniques are included. Information related to computer and data security is discussed to provide information on implementation options. The information is presented as it relates to a VAX computer environment.

Exclusivity structures and graph representatives of local complementation orbits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cabello, Adán; Parker, Matthew G.; Scarpa, Giannicola; Severini, Simone

2013-07-01

We describe a construction that maps any connected graph G on three or more vertices into a larger graph, H(G), whose independence number is strictly smaller than its Lovász number which is equal to its fractional packing number. The vertices of H(G) represent all possible events consistent with the stabilizer group of the graph state associated with G, and exclusive events are adjacent. Mathematically, the graph H(G) corresponds to the orbit of G under local complementation. Physically, the construction translates into graph-theoretic terms the connection between a graph state and a Bell inequality maximally violated by quantum mechanics. In the context of zero-error information theory, the construction suggests a protocol achieving the maximum rate of entanglement-assisted capacity, a quantum mechanical analogue of the Shannon capacity, for each H(G). The violation of the Bell inequality is expressed by the one-shot version of this capacity being strictly larger than the independence number. Finally, given the correspondence between graphs and exclusivity structures, we are able to compute the independence number for certain infinite families of graphs with the use of quantum non-locality, therefore highlighting an application of quantum theory in the proof of a purely combinatorial statement.

Principles of Sterilization of Mars Descent Vehicle Elements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trofimov, Vladislav; Deshevaya, Elena; Khamidullina, N.; Kalashnikov, Viktor

Due to COSPAR severe requirements to permissible microbiological contamination of elements of down-to-Mars S/C as well as complexity of their chemical composition and structure the exposure of such S/C elements to antimicrobial treatment (sterilization) at their integration requires application of a wide set of methods: chemical, ultraviolet, radiation. The report describes the analysis of all the aspects of applicable methods of treatment for cleaning of elements’ surfaces and inner contents from microbiota. The analysis showed that the most important, predictable and controllable method is radiation processing (of the elements which don’t change their properties after effective treatment). The experience of ionizing radiation application for sterilization of products for medicine, etc. shows that, depending on initial microbial contamination of lander elements, the required absorbed dose can be within the range 12 ÷ 35 kGr. The analysis of the effect of irregularity of radiation absorption in complex structure elements to the choice of radiation methodology was made and the algorithm of the choice of effective conditions of radiation treatment and control of sterilization efficiency was suggested. The important phase of establishing of the effective condition of each structure element treatment is experimental verification of real microbiological contamination in terms of S/C integration, contamination maximum decrease using another cleaning procedures (mechanical, chemical, ultraviolet) and determination of radiation resistance of spore microorganisms typical for the shops of space technology manufacturing and assembling. Proceeding from three parameters (irregularity of radiation absorption in a concrete element, its initial microbial contamination and resistance of microorganisms to the effect of radiation) the condition of the packed object sterilization is chosen, the condition that prevents secondary contamination, ensures given reliability of the treatment without final experimental microbiological verification only by simple control of the absorbed dose at critical points. All the process phases (from the choice of treatment conditions to provision of the procedure safety) are strictly regulated by Russian legislation in accordance with international standards.

Functional characterization of Gne (UDP-N-acetylglucosamine-4-epimerase), Wzz (chain length determinant), and Wzy (O-antigen polymerase) of Yersinia enterocolitica serotype O:8.

PubMed

Bengoechea, José Antonio; Pinta, Elise; Salminen, Tiina; Oertelt, Clemens; Holst, Otto; Radziejewska-Lebrecht, Joanna; Piotrowska-Seget, Zofia; Venho, Reija; Skurnik, Mikael

2002-08-01

The lipopolysaccharide (LPS) O-antigen of Yersinia enterocolitica serotype O:8 is formed by branched pentasaccharide repeat units that contain N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc), L-fucose (Fuc), D-galactose (Gal), D-mannose (Man), and 6-deoxy-D-gulose (6d-Gul). Its biosynthesis requires at least enzymes for the synthesis of each nucleoside diphosphate-activated sugar precursor; five glycosyltransferases, one for each sugar residue; a flippase (Wzx); and an O-antigen polymerase (Wzy). As this LPS shows a characteristic preferred O-antigen chain length, the presence of a chain length determinant protein (Wzz) is also expected. By targeted mutagenesis, we identify within the O-antigen gene cluster the genes encoding Wzy and Wzz. We also present genetic and biochemical evidence showing that the gene previously called galE encodes a UDP-N-acetylglucosamine-4-epimerase (EC 5.1.3.7) required for the biosynthesis of the first sugar of the O-unit. Accordingly, the gene was renamed gne. Gne also has some UDP-glucose-4-epimerase (EC 5.1.3.2) activity, as it restores the core production of an Escherichia coli K-12 galE mutant. The three-dimensional structure of Gne was modeled based on the crystal structure of E. coli GalE. Detailed structural comparison of the active sites of Gne and GalE revealed that additional space is required to accommodate the N-acetyl group in Gne and that this space is occupied by two Tyr residues in GalE whereas the corresponding residues present in Gne are Leu136 and Cys297. The Gne Leu136Tyr and Cys297Tyr variants completely lost the UDP-N-acetylglucosamine-4-epimerase activity while retaining the ability to complement the LPS phenotype of the E. coli galE mutant. Finally, we report that Yersinia Wzx has relaxed specificity for the translocated oligosaccharide, contrary to Wzy, which is strictly specific for the O-unit to be polymerized.

Teen Dating Violence, Sexual Harassment, and Bullying Among Middle School Youth: Examining Measurement Invariance by Gender.

PubMed

Cutbush, Stacey; Williams, Jason

2016-12-01

This study investigated measurement invariance by gender among commonly used teen dating violence (TDV), sexual harassment, and bullying measures. Data were collected from one cohort of seventh-grade middle school students (N = 754) from four schools. Using structural equation modeling, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses assessed measurement models and tested measurement invariance by gender for aggression measures. Analyses invoked baseline data only. Physical and psychological TDV perpetration measures achieved strict measurement invariance, while bullying perpetration demonstrated partial strict invariance. Electronic TDV and sexual harassment perpetration achieved metric/scalar invariance. Study findings lend validation to prior and future studies using these measures with similar populations. Future research should increase attention to measurement development, refinement, and testing among study measures. © 2016 The Authors. Journal of Research on Adolescence © 2016 Society for Research on Adolescence.

Clean Assembly of Genesis Collector Canister for Flight: Lessons for Planetary Sample Return

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Allton, J. H.; Stansbery, E. K.; Allen, C. C.; Warren, J. L.; Schwartz, C. M.

2007-01-01

Measurement of solar composition in the Genesis collectors requires not only high sensitivity but very low blanks; thus, very strict collector contamination minimization was required beginning with mission planning and continuing through hardware design, fabrication, assembly and testing. Genesis started with clean collectors and kept them clean inside of a canister. The mounting hardware and container for the clean collectors were designed to be cleanable, with access to all surfaces for cleaning. Major structural components were made of aluminum and cleaned with megasonically energized ultrapure water (UPW). The UPW purity was >18 M resistivity. Although aluminum is relatively difficult to clean, the Genesis protocol achieved level 25 and level 50 cleanliness on large structural parts; however, the experience suggests that surface treatments may be helpful on future missions. All cleaning was performed in an ISO Class 4 (Class 10) cleanroom immediately adjacent to an ISO Class 4 assembly room; thus, no plastic packaging was required for transport. Persons assembling the canister were totally enclosed in cleanroom suits with face shield and HEPA filter exhaust from suit. Interior canister materials, including fasteners, were installed, untouched by gloves, using tweezers and other stainless steel tools. Sealants/lubricants were not exposed inside the canister, but vented to the exterior and applied in extremely small amounts using special tools. The canister was closed in ISO Class 4, not to be opened until on station at Earth-Sun L1. Throughout the cleaning and assembly, coupons of reference materials that were cleaned at the same time as the flight hardware were archived for future reference and blanks. Likewise reference collectors were archived. Post-mission analysis of collectors has made use of these archived reference materials.

Structural Determinants of the Transient Receptor Potential 1 (TRPV1) Channel Activation by Phospholipid Analogs*

PubMed Central

Morales-Lázaro, Sara L.; Serrano-Flores, Barbara; Llorente, Itzel; Hernández-García, Enrique; González-Ramírez, Ricardo; Banerjee, Souvik; Miller, Duane; Gududuru, Veeresh; Fells, James; Norman, Derek; Tigyi, Gabor; Escalante-Alcalde, Diana; Rosenbaum, Tamara

2014-01-01

The transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) ion channel is a polymodal protein that responds to various stimuli, including capsaicin (the pungent compound found in chili peppers), extracellular acid, and basic intracellular pH, temperatures close to 42 °C, and several lipids. Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), an endogenous lipid widely associated with neuropathic pain, is an agonist of the TRPV1 channel found in primary afferent nociceptors and is activated by other noxious stimuli. Agonists or antagonists of lipid and other chemical natures are known to possess specific structural requirements for producing functional effects on their targets. To better understand how LPA and other lipid analogs might interact and affect the function of TRPV1, we set out to determine the structural features of these lipids that result in the activation of TRPV1. By changing the acyl chain length, saturation, and headgroup of these LPA analogs, we established strict requirements for activation of TRPV1. Among the natural LPA analogs, we found that only LPA 18:1, alkylglycerophosphate 18:1, and cyclic phosphatidic acid 18:1, all with a monounsaturated C18 hydrocarbon chain activate TRPV1, whereas polyunsaturated and saturated analogs do not. Thus, TRPV1 shows a more restricted ligand specificity compared with LPA G-protein-coupled receptors. We synthesized fatty alcohol phosphates and thiophosphates and found that many of them with a single double bond in position Δ9, 10, or 11 and Δ9 cyclopropyl group can activate TRPV1 with efficacy similar to capsaicin. Finally, we developed a pharmacophore and proposed a mechanistic model for how these lipids could induce a conformational change that activates TRPV1. PMID:25035428

Structural determinants of the transient receptor potential 1 (TRPV1) channel activation by phospholipid analogs.

PubMed

Morales-Lázaro, Sara L; Serrano-Flores, Barbara; Llorente, Itzel; Hernández-García, Enrique; González-Ramírez, Ricardo; Banerjee, Souvik; Miller, Duane; Gududuru, Veeresh; Fells, James; Norman, Derek; Tigyi, Gabor; Escalante-Alcalde, Diana; Rosenbaum, Tamara

2014-08-29

The transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) ion channel is a polymodal protein that responds to various stimuli, including capsaicin (the pungent compound found in chili peppers), extracellular acid, and basic intracellular pH, temperatures close to 42 °C, and several lipids. Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), an endogenous lipid widely associated with neuropathic pain, is an agonist of the TRPV1 channel found in primary afferent nociceptors and is activated by other noxious stimuli. Agonists or antagonists of lipid and other chemical natures are known to possess specific structural requirements for producing functional effects on their targets. To better understand how LPA and other lipid analogs might interact and affect the function of TRPV1, we set out to determine the structural features of these lipids that result in the activation of TRPV1. By changing the acyl chain length, saturation, and headgroup of these LPA analogs, we established strict requirements for activation of TRPV1. Among the natural LPA analogs, we found that only LPA 18:1, alkylglycerophosphate 18:1, and cyclic phosphatidic acid 18:1, all with a monounsaturated C18 hydrocarbon chain activate TRPV1, whereas polyunsaturated and saturated analogs do not. Thus, TRPV1 shows a more restricted ligand specificity compared with LPA G-protein-coupled receptors. We synthesized fatty alcohol phosphates and thiophosphates and found that many of them with a single double bond in position Δ9, 10, or 11 and Δ9 cyclopropyl group can activate TRPV1 with efficacy similar to capsaicin. Finally, we developed a pharmacophore and proposed a mechanistic model for how these lipids could induce a conformational change that activates TRPV1. © 2014 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

The role of early detection and treatment in malaria elimination.

PubMed

Landier, Jordi; Parker, Daniel M; Thu, Aung Myint; Carrara, Verena I; Lwin, Khin Maung; Bonnington, Craig A; Pukrittayakamee, Sasithon; Delmas, Gilles; Nosten, François H

2016-07-15

Falciparum malaria persists in hard-to-reach areas or demographic groups that are missed by conventional healthcare systems but could be reached by trained community members in a malaria post (MP). The main focus of a MP is to provide uninterrupted and rapid access to rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) and artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) too all inhabitants of a village. RDTs allow trained community members to perform malaria diagnosis accurately and prescribe appropriate treatment, reducing as much as possible any delay between the onset of fever and treatment. Early treatment with ACT and with a low-dose of primaquine prevents further transmission from human to mosquito. A functioning MP represents an essential component of any malaria elimination strategy. Implementing large-scale, high-coverage, community-based early diagnosis and treatment through MPs requires few technological innovations but relies on a very well structured organization able to train, supervise and supply MPs, to monitor activity and to perform strict malaria surveillance.

Optical diametric drive acceleration through action-reaction symmetry breaking

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wimmer, Martin; Regensburger, Alois; Bersch, Christoph; Miri, Mohammad-Ali; Batz, Sascha; Onishchukov, Georgy; Christodoulides, Demetrios N.; Peschel, Ulf

2013-12-01

Newton's third law of motion is one of the pillars of classical physics. This fundamental principle states that the forces two bodies exert on each other are equal and opposite. Had the resulting accelerations been oriented in the same direction, this would have instead led to a counterintuitive phenomenon, that of diametric drive. In such a hypothetical arrangement, two interacting particles constantly accelerate each other in the same direction through a violation of the action-reaction symmetry. Although in classical mechanics any realization of this process requires one of the two particles to have a negative mass and hence is strictly forbidden, it could nevertheless be feasible in periodic structures where the effective mass can also attain a negative sign. Here we report the first experimental observation of such diametric drive acceleration for pulses propagating in a nonlinear optical mesh lattice. The demonstrated reversal of action-reaction symmetry could enable altogether new possibilities for frequency conversion and pulse-steering applications.

Novel Threshold Changeable Secret Sharing Schemes Based on Polynomial Interpolation

PubMed Central

Li, Mingchu; Guo, Cheng; Choo, Kim-Kwang Raymond; Ren, Yizhi

2016-01-01

After any distribution of secret sharing shadows in a threshold changeable secret sharing scheme, the threshold may need to be adjusted to deal with changes in the security policy and adversary structure. For example, when employees leave the organization, it is not realistic to expect departing employees to ensure the security of their secret shadows. Therefore, in 2012, Zhang et al. proposed (t → t′, n) and ({t1, t2,⋯, tN}, n) threshold changeable secret sharing schemes. However, their schemes suffer from a number of limitations such as strict limit on the threshold values, large storage space requirement for secret shadows, and significant computation for constructing and recovering polynomials. To address these limitations, we propose two improved dealer-free threshold changeable secret sharing schemes. In our schemes, we construct polynomials to update secret shadows, and use two-variable one-way function to resist collusion attacks and secure the information stored by the combiner. We then demonstrate our schemes can adjust the threshold safely. PMID:27792784

FEM-based strain analysis study for multilayer sheet forming process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Rongjing; Lang, Lihui; Zafar, Rizwan

2015-12-01

Fiber metal laminates have many advantages over traditional laminates (e.g., any type of fiber and resin material can be placed anywhere between the metallic layers without risk of failure of the composite fabric sheets). Furthermore, the process requirements to strictly control the temperature and punch force in fiber metal laminates are also less stringent than those in traditional laminates. To further explore the novel method, this study conducts a finite element method-based (FEM-based) strain analysis on multilayer blanks by using the 3A method. Different forming modes such as wrinkling and fracture are discussed by using experimental and numerical studies. Hydroforming is used for multilayer forming. The Barlat 2000 yield criteria and DYNAFORM/LS-DYNA are used for the simulations. Optimal process parameters are determined on the basis of fixed die-binder gap and variable cavity pressure. The results of this study will enhance the knowledge on the mechanics of multilayer structures formed by using the 3A method and expand its commercial applications.

Λ-enhanced grey molasses on the D2 transition of Rubidium-87 atoms.

PubMed

Rosi, Sara; Burchianti, Alessia; Conclave, Stefano; Naik, Devang S; Roati, Giacomo; Fort, Chiara; Minardi, Francesco

2018-01-22

Laser cooling based on dark states, i.e. states decoupled from light, has proven to be effective to increase the phase-space density of cold trapped atoms. Dark-states cooling requires open atomic transitions, in contrast to the ordinary laser cooling used for example in magneto-optical traps (MOTs), which operate on closed atomic transitions. For alkali atoms, dark-states cooling is therefore commonly operated on the D 1 transition nS 1/2  → nP 1/2 . We show that, for 87 Rb, thanks to the large hyperfine structure separations the use of this transition is not strictly necessary and that "quasi-dark state" cooling is efficient also on the D 2 line, 5S 1/2  → 5P 3/2 . We report temperatures as low as (4.0 ± 0.3) μK and an increase of almost an order of magnitude in the phase space density with respect to ordinary laser sub-Doppler cooling.

Novel Threshold Changeable Secret Sharing Schemes Based on Polynomial Interpolation.

PubMed

Yuan, Lifeng; Li, Mingchu; Guo, Cheng; Choo, Kim-Kwang Raymond; Ren, Yizhi

2016-01-01

After any distribution of secret sharing shadows in a threshold changeable secret sharing scheme, the threshold may need to be adjusted to deal with changes in the security policy and adversary structure. For example, when employees leave the organization, it is not realistic to expect departing employees to ensure the security of their secret shadows. Therefore, in 2012, Zhang et al. proposed (t → t', n) and ({t1, t2,⋯, tN}, n) threshold changeable secret sharing schemes. However, their schemes suffer from a number of limitations such as strict limit on the threshold values, large storage space requirement for secret shadows, and significant computation for constructing and recovering polynomials. To address these limitations, we propose two improved dealer-free threshold changeable secret sharing schemes. In our schemes, we construct polynomials to update secret shadows, and use two-variable one-way function to resist collusion attacks and secure the information stored by the combiner. We then demonstrate our schemes can adjust the threshold safely.

High Surface Area of Porous Silicon Drives Desorption of Intact Molecules

PubMed Central

Northen, Trent R.; Woo, Hin-Koon; Northen, Michael T.; Nordström, Anders; Uritboonthail, Winnie; Turner, Kimberly L.; Siuzdak, Gary

2007-01-01

The surface structure of porous silicon used in desorption/ionization on porous silicon (DIOS) mass analysis is known to play a primary role in the desorption/ionization (D/I) process. In this study, mass spectrometry and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) are used to examine the correlation between intact ion generation with surface ablation, and surface morphology. The DIOS process is found to be highly laser energy dependent and correlates directly with the appearance of surface ions (Sin+ and OSiH+). A threshold laser energy for DIOS is observed (10 mJ/cm2), which supports that DIOS is driven by surface restructuring and is not a strictly thermal process. In addition, three DIOS regimes are observed which correspond to surface restructuring and melting. These results suggest that higher surface area silicon substrates may enhance DIOS performance. A recent example which fits into this mechanism is silicon nanowires surface which have a high surface energy and concomitantly requires lower laser energy for analyte desorpton. PMID:17881245

Dissection of structural and functional requirements that underlie the interaction of ERdj3 protein with substrates in the endoplasmic reticulum.

PubMed

Otero, Joel H; Lizák, Beata; Feige, Matthias J; Hendershot, Linda M

2014-10-03

ERdj3, a mammalian endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Hsp40/DnaJ family member, binds unfolded proteins, transfers them to BiP, and concomitantly stimulates BiP ATPase activity. However, the requirements for ERdj3 binding to and release from substrates in cells are not well understood. We found that ERdj3 homodimers that cannot stimulate the ATPase activity of BiP (QPD mutants) bound to unfolded ER proteins under steady state conditions in much greater amounts than wild-type ERdj3. This was due to reduced release from these substrates as opposed to enhanced binding, although in both cases dimerization was strictly required for substrate binding. Conversely, heterodimers consisting of one wild-type and one mutant ERdj3 subunit bound substrates at levels comparable with wild-type ERdj3 homodimers, demonstrating that release requires only one protomer to be functional in stimulating BiP ATPase activity. Co-expressing wild-type ERdj3 and a QPD mutant, which each exclusively formed homodimers, revealed that the release rate of wild-type ERdj3 varied according to the relative half-lives of substrates, suggesting that ERdj3 release is an important step in degradation of unfolded client proteins in the ER. Furthermore, pulse-chase experiments revealed that the binding of QPD mutant homodimers remained constant as opposed to increasing, suggesting that ERdj3 does not normally undergo reiterative binding cycles with substrates. © 2014 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Dissection of Structural and Functional Requirements That Underlie the Interaction of ERdj3 Protein with Substrates in the Endoplasmic Reticulum*

PubMed Central

Otero, Joel H.; Lizák, Beata; Feige, Matthias J.; Hendershot, Linda M.

2014-01-01

ERdj3, a mammalian endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Hsp40/DnaJ family member, binds unfolded proteins, transfers them to BiP, and concomitantly stimulates BiP ATPase activity. However, the requirements for ERdj3 binding to and release from substrates in cells are not well understood. We found that ERdj3 homodimers that cannot stimulate the ATPase activity of BiP (QPD mutants) bound to unfolded ER proteins under steady state conditions in much greater amounts than wild-type ERdj3. This was due to reduced release from these substrates as opposed to enhanced binding, although in both cases dimerization was strictly required for substrate binding. Conversely, heterodimers consisting of one wild-type and one mutant ERdj3 subunit bound substrates at levels comparable with wild-type ERdj3 homodimers, demonstrating that release requires only one protomer to be functional in stimulating BiP ATPase activity. Co-expressing wild-type ERdj3 and a QPD mutant, which each exclusively formed homodimers, revealed that the release rate of wild-type ERdj3 varied according to the relative half-lives of substrates, suggesting that ERdj3 release is an important step in degradation of unfolded client proteins in the ER. Furthermore, pulse-chase experiments revealed that the binding of QPD mutant homodimers remained constant as opposed to increasing, suggesting that ERdj3 does not normally undergo reiterative binding cycles with substrates. PMID:25143379

Control of water distribution networks with dynamic DMA topology using strictly feasible sequential convex programming

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wright, Robert; Abraham, Edo; Parpas, Panos; Stoianov, Ivan

2015-12-01

The operation of water distribution networks (WDN) with a dynamic topology is a recently pioneered approach for the advanced management of District Metered Areas (DMAs) that integrates novel developments in hydraulic modeling, monitoring, optimization, and control. A common practice for leakage management is the sectorization of WDNs into small zones, called DMAs, by permanently closing isolation valves. This facilitates water companies to identify bursts and estimate leakage levels by measuring the inlet flow for each DMA. However, by permanently closing valves, a number of problems have been created including reduced resilience to failure and suboptimal pressure management. By introducing a dynamic topology to these zones, these disadvantages can be eliminated while still retaining the DMA structure for leakage monitoring. In this paper, a novel optimization method based on sequential convex programming (SCP) is outlined for the control of a dynamic topology with the objective of reducing average zone pressure (AZP). A key attribute for control optimization is reliable convergence. To achieve this, the SCP method we propose guarantees that each optimization step is strictly feasible, resulting in improved convergence properties. By using a null space algorithm for hydraulic analyses, the computations required are also significantly reduced. The optimized control is actuated on a real WDN operated with a dynamic topology. This unique experimental program incorporates a number of technologies set up with the objective of investigating pioneering developments in WDN management. Preliminary results indicate AZP reductions for a dynamic topology of up to 6.5% over optimally controlled fixed topology DMAs. This article was corrected on 12 JAN 2016. See the end of the full text for details.

Staff knowledge, adherence to infection control recommendations and seroconversion rates in hemodialysis centers in Khartoum.

PubMed

Elamin, Sarra; Salih, Lamya O A M; Mohammed, Sahar I; Ali, Shima E E; Mohammed, Nazik F E; Hassan, Ekram H; Ahmed, Mysa A M; Rahamtalla, Abd-Alhafeez A; Abu-Aisha, Hassan

2011-01-01

We evaluated hemodialysis (HD) staff knowledge, adherence to infection control recommendations and seroconversion rates for hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) in 13 centers that continuously provided HD services in Khartoum State between June 2009 and November 2010. The knowledge of 182 HD staff members was evaluated by a self-filled questionnaire. Relevant data were obtained from 1011 HD patients by direct interviews and record review. Adherence to infection control recommendations was evaluated by direct observation. HD staff members achieved a median score of 81% in knowledge evaluation (range 44-100%). Better scores were achieved by more experienced staff. We identified serious gaps in knowledge related to the environmental risk of viral transmission. Regular screening by enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) was performed in 46% of centers. Only half susceptible patients were vaccinated against HBV. Staff dedicated for treatment of HBV positive patients were found in only 57% of centers that served such patients. Hand washing recommendations were strictly observed in 15% of centers, disinfection of HD stations between patients was strictly observed in 23% of centers, medications were prepared in a separate area in 8% of centers and delivered separately to each patient in none of the centers. There were 2.5 HCV seroconversions and 0.6 HBV seroconversions per 100 patient-years. Center characteristics that predicted HCV seroconversion were accommodation of HCV-positive patients in the same center, using ELISA for patient screening, and assigning more than 3 patients for one HD nurse. There are serious gaps in HD staff knowledge and adherence to infection control recommendations. A structured training program for HD staff members is urgently required.

Insight into multi-site mechanisms of glycosyl transfer in (1-->4)beta-D-glycans provided by the cereal mixed-linkage (1-->3),(1-->4)beta-D-glucan synthase.

PubMed

Buckeridge, M S; Vergara, C E; Carpita, N C

2001-08-01

Synthases of cellulose, chitin, hyaluronan, and all other polymers containing (1-->4)beta-linked glucosyl, mannosyl and xylosyl units have overcome a substrate orientation problem in catalysis because the (1-->4)beta-linkage requires that each of these sugar units be inverted nearly 180 degrees with respect to its neighbors. We and others have proposed that this problem is solved by two modes of glycosyl transfer within a single catalytic subunit to generate disaccharide units, which, when linked processively, maintain the proper orientation without rotation or re-orientation of the synthetic machinery in 3-dimensional space. A variant of the strict (1-->4)beta-D-linkage structure is the mixed-linkage (1-->3),(1-->4)beta-D-glucan, a growth-specific cell wall polysaccharide found in grasses and cereals. beta-Glucan is composed primarily of cellotriosyl and cellotetraosyl units linked by single (1-->3)beta-D-linkages. In reactions in vitro at high substrate concentration, a polymer composed of almost entirely cellotriosyl and cellopentosyl units is made. These results support a model in which three modes of glycosyl transfer occur within the synthase complex instead of just two. The generation of odd numbered units demands that they are connected by (1-->3)beta-linkages and not (1-->4)beta-. In this short review of beta-glucan synthesis in maize, we show how such a model not only provides simple mechanisms of synthesis for all (1-->4)beta-D-glycans but also explains how the synthesis of callose, or strictly (1-->3)beta-D-glucans, occurs upon loss of the multiple modes of glycosyl transfer to a single one.

Structural Insights into the Phospholipid Binding Specificity of Human Evectin-2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Okazaki, Seiji; Kato, Ryuichi; Wakatsuki, Soichi; Uchida, Yasunori; Taguchi, Tomohiko; Arai, Hiroyuki

Evectin-2 is a recycling endosomal protein and plays an essential role in retrograde transport from recycling endosomes to the trans-Golgi network. The pleckstrin homology (PH) domain of Evectin-2 can specifically binds to phosphatidylserine (PS), which is enriched in recycling endosomes. To elucidate the molecular mechanism how it specifically binds to PS, we solved the crystal structures of human Evectin-2 PH domain for apo and O-phospho-L-serine complexed forms at 1.75 and 1.00 Å resolution, respectively. These structural analyses clearly show that PS-induced conformational change of Evectin-2 PH domain effectively explains the strict phospholipid binding specificity.

A lightweight security scheme for wireless body area networks: design, energy evaluation and proposed microprocessor design.

PubMed

Selimis, Georgios; Huang, Li; Massé, Fabien; Tsekoura, Ioanna; Ashouei, Maryam; Catthoor, Francky; Huisken, Jos; Stuyt, Jan; Dolmans, Guido; Penders, Julien; De Groot, Harmke

2011-10-01

In order for wireless body area networks to meet widespread adoption, a number of security implications must be explored to promote and maintain fundamental medical ethical principles and social expectations. As a result, integration of security functionality to sensor nodes is required. Integrating security functionality to a wireless sensor node increases the size of the stored software program in program memory, the required time that the sensor's microprocessor needs to process the data and the wireless network traffic which is exchanged among sensors. This security overhead has dominant impact on the energy dissipation which is strongly related to the lifetime of the sensor, a critical aspect in wireless sensor network (WSN) technology. Strict definition of the security functionality, complete hardware model (microprocessor and radio), WBAN topology and the structure of the medium access control (MAC) frame are required for an accurate estimation of the energy that security introduces into the WBAN. In this work, we define a lightweight security scheme for WBAN, we estimate the additional energy consumption that the security scheme introduces to WBAN based on commercial available off-the-shelf hardware components (microprocessor and radio), the network topology and the MAC frame. Furthermore, we propose a new microcontroller design in order to reduce the energy consumption of the system. Experimental results and comparisons with other works are given.

Crystal Structure of Botulinum Neurotoxin Type a in Complex With the Cell Surface Co-Receptor GT1b-Insight Into the Toxin-Neuron Interaction

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Stenmark, P.; Dupuy, J.; Inamura, A.

2009-05-26

Botulinum neurotoxins have a very high affinity and specificity for their target cells requiring two different co-receptors located on the neuronal cell surface. Different toxin serotypes have different protein receptors; yet, most share a common ganglioside co-receptor, GT1b. We determined the crystal structure of the botulinum neurotoxin serotype A binding domain (residues 873-1297) alone and in complex with a GT1b analog at 1.7 A and 1.6 A, respectively. The ganglioside GT1b forms several key hydrogen bonds to conserved residues and binds in a shallow groove lined by Tryptophan 1266. GT1b binding does not induce any large structural changes in themore » toxin; therefore, it is unlikely that allosteric effects play a major role in the dual receptor recognition. Together with the previously published structures of botulinum neurotoxin serotype B in complex with its protein co-receptor, we can now generate a detailed model of botulinum neurotoxin's interaction with the neuronal cell surface. The two branches of the GT1b polysaccharide, together with the protein receptor site, impose strict geometric constraints on the mode of interaction with the membrane surface and strongly support a model where one end of the 100 A long translocation domain helix bundle swing into contact with the membrane, initiating the membrane anchoring event.« less

Applied metrology in the production of superconducting model magnets for particle accelerators

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ferradas Troitino, Jose; Bestmann, Patrick; Bourcey, Nicolas

2017-12-22

The production of superconducting magnets for particle accelerators involves high precision assemblies and tight tolerances, in order to achieve the requirements for their appropriate performance. It is therefore essential to have a strict control and traceability over the geometry of each component of the system, and also to be able to compensate possible inherent deviations coming from the production process.

Department of Defense Computer Technology. A Report to Congress.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-08-01

system and evolves his employment tactics. (8) Lack of adequate competition. Conclusions Based on both software and hardware arguments, it is...environments, Services should be encouraged to use either common-commercial, ruggedized-commercial or "off-the-shelf" militarized computers based upon...the performance requirements of the specific application. Full consideration should be given to Ada- based systems where there is no strict hardware

PTTI 2030 - Time Transfer and Applications in 2030

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-01-01

today’s society is paramount. Every day billions of people worldwide depend on some level of time synchronization , and timing laboratories require...applications as an inexpensive way to disseminate GPS-acquired time and frequency among groups, or as a backup method of time synchronization in the...strictly for timing use would be very expensive, perhaps prohibitive. ADVANTAGES OF AN IEEE-1588-ENABLED POWER GRID Time synchronization in

[Lung auscultation--an overview].

PubMed

Bürgi, Urs; Huber, Lars Christian

2015-07-01

The auscultation of the lungs is - among anamnesis - the most important part in the assessment of patients presenting with pulmonary symptoms. The lung auscultation is reproducible, cost efficient and very helpful to distinguish between differential diagnoses, in particular in emergency situations. Detection and description of lung sounds requires experience and should be performed by strict adherence to the internationally accepted terminology. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

JPRS Report (Erratum), Science & Technology, Japan, Selections from MITI White Paper on Industrial Technology Trends and Issues

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-08-30

year period in the following products: Technology Field Product New materials Composite materials Amorphous alloys Macromolecule separation...plastics 8. Composite materials B. Parts 9. Optical fiber 10. Semiconductor lasers 11. CCD 12. Semiconductor memory elements 13. Microcomputers...separation. Composite materials (containing carbon fiber) (1) Aerospace users required strict specifi cations for carbon fiber, resulting in

Structure and Function of the Unusual Tungsten Enzymes Acetylene Hydratase and Class II Benzoyl-Coenzyme A Reductase.

PubMed

Boll, Matthias; Einsle, Oliver; Ermler, Ulrich; Kroneck, Peter M H; Ullmann, G Matthias

2016-01-01

In biology, tungsten (W) is exclusively found in microbial enzymes bound to a bis-pyranopterin cofactor (bis-WPT). Previously known W enzymes catalyze redox oxo/hydroxyl transfer reactions by directly coordinating their substrates or products to the metal. They comprise the W-containing formate/formylmethanofuran dehydrogenases belonging to the dimethyl sulfoxide reductase (DMSOR) family and the aldehyde:ferredoxin oxidoreductase (AOR) families, which form a separate enzyme family within the Mo/W enzymes. In the last decade, initial insights into the structure and function of two unprecedented W enzymes were obtained: the acetaldehyde forming acetylene hydratase (ACH) belongs to the DMSOR and the class II benzoyl-coenzyme A (CoA) reductase (BCR) to the AOR family. The latter catalyzes the reductive dearomatization of benzoyl-CoA to a cyclic diene. Both are key enzymes in the degradation of acetylene (ACH) or aromatic compounds (BCR) in strictly anaerobic bacteria. They are unusual in either catalyzing a nonredox reaction (ACH) or a redox reaction without coordinating the substrate or product to the metal (BCR). In organic chemical synthesis, analogous reactions require totally nonphysiological conditions depending on Hg2+ (acetylene hydration) or alkali metals (benzene ring reduction). The structural insights obtained pave the way for biological or biomimetic approaches to basic reactions in organic chemistry. © 2016 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Gap Junctions

PubMed Central

Nielsen, Morten Schak; Axelsen, Lene Nygaard; Sorgen, Paul L.; Verma, Vandana; Delmar, Mario; Holstein-Rathlou, Niels-Henrik

2013-01-01

Gap junctions are essential to the function of multicellular animals, which require a high degree of coordination between cells. In vertebrates, gap junctions comprise connexins and currently 21 connexins are known in humans. The functions of gap junctions are highly diverse and include exchange of metabolites and electrical signals between cells, as well as functions, which are apparently unrelated to intercellular communication. Given the diversity of gap junction physiology, regulation of gap junction activity is complex. The structure of the various connexins is known to some extent; and structural rearrangements and intramolecular interactions are important for regulation of channel function. Intercellular coupling is further regulated by the number and activity of channels present in gap junctional plaques. The number of connexins in cell-cell channels is regulated by controlling transcription, translation, trafficking, and degradation; and all of these processes are under strict control. Once in the membrane, channel activity is determined by the conductive properties of the connexin involved, which can be regulated by voltage and chemical gating, as well as a large number of posttranslational modifications. The aim of the present article is to review our current knowledge on the structure, regulation, function, and pharmacology of gap junctions. This will be supported by examples of how different connexins and their regulation act in concert to achieve appropriate physiological control, and how disturbances of connexin function can lead to disease. © 2012 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 2:1981-2035, 2012. PMID:23723031

Biomedical word sense disambiguation with ontologies and metadata: automation meets accuracy

PubMed Central

Alexopoulou, Dimitra; Andreopoulos, Bill; Dietze, Heiko; Doms, Andreas; Gandon, Fabien; Hakenberg, Jörg; Khelif, Khaled; Schroeder, Michael; Wächter, Thomas

2009-01-01

Background Ontology term labels can be ambiguous and have multiple senses. While this is no problem for human annotators, it is a challenge to automated methods, which identify ontology terms in text. Classical approaches to word sense disambiguation use co-occurring words or terms. However, most treat ontologies as simple terminologies, without making use of the ontology structure or the semantic similarity between terms. Another useful source of information for disambiguation are metadata. Here, we systematically compare three approaches to word sense disambiguation, which use ontologies and metadata, respectively. Results The 'Closest Sense' method assumes that the ontology defines multiple senses of the term. It computes the shortest path of co-occurring terms in the document to one of these senses. The 'Term Cooc' method defines a log-odds ratio for co-occurring terms including co-occurrences inferred from the ontology structure. The 'MetaData' approach trains a classifier on metadata. It does not require any ontology, but requires training data, which the other methods do not. To evaluate these approaches we defined a manually curated training corpus of 2600 documents for seven ambiguous terms from the Gene Ontology and MeSH. All approaches over all conditions achieve 80% success rate on average. The 'MetaData' approach performed best with 96%, when trained on high-quality data. Its performance deteriorates as quality of the training data decreases. The 'Term Cooc' approach performs better on Gene Ontology (92% success) than on MeSH (73% success) as MeSH is not a strict is-a/part-of, but rather a loose is-related-to hierarchy. The 'Closest Sense' approach achieves on average 80% success rate. Conclusion Metadata is valuable for disambiguation, but requires high quality training data. Closest Sense requires no training, but a large, consistently modelled ontology, which are two opposing conditions. Term Cooc achieves greater 90% success given a consistently modelled ontology. Overall, the results show that well structured ontologies can play a very important role to improve disambiguation. Availability The three benchmark datasets created for the purpose of disambiguation are available in Additional file 1. PMID:19159460

Structural requirements for fibromodulin binding to collagen and the control of type I collagen fibrillogenesis--critical roles for disulphide bonding and the C-terminal region.

PubMed

Font, B; Eichenberger, D; Goldschmidt, D; Boutillon, M M; Hulmes, D J

1998-06-15

Fibromodulin belongs to the family of small, leucine-rich proteoglycans which have been reported to interact with collagens and to inhibit type I collagen fibrillogenesis. Decorin and fibromodulin exhibit a noticeable degree of sequence similarity. However, as previously reported [Font, B., Eichenberger, D., Rosenberg, L. M. & van der Rest, M. (1996) Matrix Biol. 15, 341-348] the domains of these molecules implicated in the interactions with type XII and type XIV collagens are different, these being the dermatan sulphate/chondroitin sulphate chain for decorin and the core protein for fibromodulin. At the present time the fibromodulin domains implicated in the interactions with fibrillar collagens remain unknown. In experiments reported here, we have sought to identify the structural requirements for fibromodulin interaction with collagen and for the control of type I collagen fibrillogenesis. Circular dichroism spectra and fibrillogenesis inhibition studies show that fibromodulin structure and its collagen fibrillogenesis control function are strictly dependent on the presence of intact disulphide bridge(s). In addition, we show that the binding of fibromodulin (or fibromodulin-derived fragments) to type I collagen is not necessarily correlated with fibrillogenesis inhibition. To isolate fibromodulin domains, the native proteoglycan was submitted to mild proteolysis. We have isolated an alpha-chymotrypsin-resistant fragment which contains the bulk of the N-terminal and central region of the molecule including the leucine-rich repeats 4 and 6 reported for decorin to be involved in type I collagen binding. This fragment does not bind to type I collagen. Using enzymes with different specificities, a number of large fragments of fibromodulin were obtained, suggesting a compact structure for this molecule which is relatively resistant to proteolysis. None of these N-glycosylated fragments were able to bind to type I collagen in co-sedimentation experiments. Taken together these results suggest that fibromodulin-type I collagen interactions leading to fibrillogenesis inhibition require more than one binding domain. One of these domains could be the C-terminal end of the molecule containing the disulphide loop which is absent in the chymotrypsin-resistant fragment.

The complete influenza hemagglutinin fusion domain adopts a tight helical hairpin arrangement at the lipid:water interface.

PubMed

Lorieau, Justin L; Louis, John M; Bax, Ad

2010-06-22

All but five of the N-terminal 23 residues of the HA2 domain of the influenza virus glycoprotein hemagglutinin (HA) are strictly conserved across all 16 serotypes of HA genes. The structure and function of this HA2 fusion peptide (HAfp) continues to be the focus of extensive biophysical, computational, and functional analysis, but most of these analyses are of peptides that do not include the strictly conserved residues Trp(21)-Tyr(22)-Gly(23). The heteronuclear triple resonance NMR study reported here of full length HAfp of sero subtype H1, solubilized in dodecylphosphatidyl choline, reveals a remarkably tight helical hairpin structure, with its N-terminal alpha-helix (Gly(1)-Gly(12)) packed tightly against its second alpha-helix (Trp(14)-Gly(23)), with six of the seven conserved Gly residues at the interhelical interface. The seventh conserved Gly residue in position 13 adopts a positive angle, enabling the hairpin turn that links the two helices. The structure is stabilized by multiple interhelical C(alpha)H to C=O hydrogen bonds, characterized by strong interhelical H(N)-H(alpha) and H(alpha)-H(alpha) NOE contacts. Many of the previously identified mutations that make HA2 nonfusogenic are also incompatible with the tight antiparallel hairpin arrangement of the HAfp helices.(15)N relaxation analysis indicates the structure to be highly ordered on the nanosecond time scale, and NOE analysis indicates HAfp is located at the water-lipid interface, with its hydrophobic surface facing the lipid environment, and the Gly-rich side of the helix-helix interface exposed to solvent.

Probabilistic neural networks modeling of the 48-h LC50 acute toxicity endpoint to Daphnia magna.

PubMed

Niculescu, S P; Lewis, M A; Tigner, J

2008-01-01

Two modeling experiments based on the maximum likelihood estimation paradigm and targeting prediction of the Daphnia magna 48-h LC50 acute toxicity endpoint for both organic and inorganic compounds are reported. The resulting models computational algorithms are implemented as basic probabilistic neural networks with Gaussian kernel (statistical corrections included). The first experiment uses strictly D. magna information for 971 structures as training/learning data and the resulting model targets practical applications. The second experiment uses the same training/learning information plus additional data on another 29 compounds whose endpoint information is originating from D. pulex and Ceriodaphnia dubia. It only targets investigation of the effect of mixing strictly D. magna 48-h LC50 modeling information with small amounts of similar information estimated from related species, and this is done as part of the validation process. A complementary 81 compounds dataset (involving only strictly D. magna information) is used to perform external testing. On this external test set, the Gaussian character of the distribution of the residuals is confirmed for both models. This allows the use of traditional statistical methodology to implement computation of confidence intervals for the unknown measured values based on the models predictions. Examples are provided for the model targeting practical applications. For the same model, a comparison with other existing models targeting the same endpoint is performed.

7 CFR 28.431 - Strict Middling Tinged Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Strict Middling Tinged Color. 28.431 Section 28.431 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Color. Strict Middling Tinged Color is color which is better than Middling Tinged Color. ...

7 CFR 28.431 - Strict Middling Tinged Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Strict Middling Tinged Color. 28.431 Section 28.431 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Color. Strict Middling Tinged Color is color which is better than Middling Tinged Color. ...

7 CFR 28.431 - Strict Middling Tinged Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Strict Middling Tinged Color. 28.431 Section 28.431 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Color. Strict Middling Tinged Color is color which is better than Middling Tinged Color. ...

7 CFR 28.431 - Strict Middling Tinged Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Strict Middling Tinged Color. 28.431 Section 28.431 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Color. Strict Middling Tinged Color is color which is better than Middling Tinged Color. ...

7 CFR 28.431 - Strict Middling Tinged Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Strict Middling Tinged Color. 28.431 Section 28.431 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Color. Strict Middling Tinged Color is color which is better than Middling Tinged Color. ...

Combinatorics and synchronization in natural semiotics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Orsucci, Franco; Giuliani, Alessandro; Webber, Charles; Zbilut, Joseph; Fonagy, Peter; Mazza, Marianna

2006-03-01

In this study the derivation of an objective metrics to appreciate the degree of structuring of written and spoken texts is presented. The proposed metrics is based on the scoring of recurrences inside a text by means of the application of recurrence quantification analysis (RQA), a nonlinear technique widely used in other fields of sciences. The adopted approach allowed us to create a ranking of different poems strictly related to their prosodic structure and, more importantly, the possibility to recognize the same structure across different languages, to define a level of structuring typical of spoken texts and identifying the progressive synchronization of a dyadic relation between two speakers in terms of relative complexity of their speeches. These results suggest the possibility of introducing objective measurement methods into humanities studies.

Association in ethylammonium nitrate-dimethyl sulfoxide mixtures: First structural and dynamical evidences

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Russina, Olga; Macchiagodena, Marina; Kirchner, Barbara

2015-01-01

Here we report the first structural and dynamic investigation on ethylammonium nitrate, a representative protic Ionic liquid, and dimethylsulfoxide. By using joined x/ray and neutron diffraction, we exploit the EPSR approach to extract structural information at atomistic level. EAN/DMSO turns out to be homogeneous at microscopic scales and indications for the existence of a structural leit motiv with stoichiometric composition 2DMSO:1EAN are found. Dielectric spectroscopy is used to access the relaxation map of the DMSO:EAN = 60:40 mixture. No crystallisation is detected and three relaxation processes could be characterised. Overall this study provides new indications of strict analogies between watermore » and ethylammonium nitrate. (c) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.« less

CCP4i2: the new graphical user interface to the CCP4 program suite.

PubMed

Potterton, Liz; Agirre, Jon; Ballard, Charles; Cowtan, Kevin; Dodson, Eleanor; Evans, Phil R; Jenkins, Huw T; Keegan, Ronan; Krissinel, Eugene; Stevenson, Kyle; Lebedev, Andrey; McNicholas, Stuart J; Nicholls, Robert A; Noble, Martin; Pannu, Navraj S; Roth, Christian; Sheldrick, George; Skubak, Pavol; Turkenburg, Johan; Uski, Ville; von Delft, Frank; Waterman, David; Wilson, Keith; Winn, Martyn; Wojdyr, Marcin

2018-02-01

The CCP4 (Collaborative Computational Project, Number 4) software suite for macromolecular structure determination by X-ray crystallography groups brings together many programs and libraries that, by means of well established conventions, interoperate effectively without adhering to strict design guidelines. Because of this inherent flexibility, users are often presented with diverse, even divergent, choices for solving every type of problem. Recently, CCP4 introduced CCP4i2, a modern graphical interface designed to help structural biologists to navigate the process of structure determination, with an emphasis on pipelining and the streamlined presentation of results. In addition, CCP4i2 provides a framework for writing structure-solution scripts that can be built up incrementally to create increasingly automatic procedures.

IEEE 1547 Standards Advancing Grid Modernization

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Basso, Thomas; Chakraborty, Sudipta; Hoke, Andy

Technology advances including development of advanced distributed energy resources (DER) and grid-integrated operations and controls functionalities have surpassed the requirements in current standards and codes for DER interconnection with the distribution grid. The full revision of IEEE Standards 1547 (requirements for DER-grid interconnection and interoperability) and 1547.1 (test procedures for conformance to 1547) are establishing requirements and best practices for state-of-the-art DER including variable renewable energy sources. The revised standards will also address challenges associated with interoperability and transmission-level effects, in addition to strictly addressing the distribution grid needs. This paper provides the status and future direction of the ongoingmore » development focus for the 1547 standards.« less

Topographical optimization of structures for use in musical instruments and other applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kirkland, William Brandon

Mallet percussion instruments such as the xylophone, marimba, and vibraphone have been produced and tuned since their inception by arduously grinding the keys to achieve harmonic ratios between their 1st, 2 nd, and 3rd transverse modes. In consideration of this, it would be preferable to have defined mathematical models such that the keys of these instruments can be produced quickly and reliably. Additionally, physical modeling of these keys or beams provides a useful application of non-uniform beam vibrations as studied by Euler-Bernoulli and Timoshenko beam theories. This thesis work presents a literature review of previous studies regarding mallet percussion instrument design and optimization of non-uniform keys. The progression of previous research from strictly mathematical approaches to finite element methods is shown, ultimately arriving at the most current optimization techniques used by other authors. However, previous research varies slightly in the relative degree of accuracy to which a non-uniform beam can be modeled. Typically, accuracies are shown in literature as 1% to 2% error. While this seems attractive, musical tolerances require 0.25% error and beams are otherwise unsuitable. This research seeks to build on and add to the previous field research by optimizing beam topology and machining keys within tolerances that no further tuning is required. The optimization methods relied on finite element analysis and used harmonic modal frequencies as constraints rather than arguments of an error function to be optimized. Instead, the beam mass was minimized while the modal frequency constraints were required to be satisfied within 0.25% tolerance. The final optimized and machined keys of an A4 vibraphone were shown to be accurate within the required musical tolerances, with strong resonance at the designed frequencies. The findings solidify a systematic method for designing musical structures for accuracy and repeatability upon manufacture.

Experimental research on thermal conductive fillers for CCD module in space borne optical remote sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zeng, Yi; Han, Xue-bing; Yang, Dong-shang; Gui, Li-jia; Zhao, Xiao-xiang; Si, Fu-qi

2016-03-01

A space-borne differential optical absorption spectrometer is a high precision aerospace optical remote sensor. It obtains the hyper-spectral，high spatial resolution radiation information by using the spectrometer with CCD（Charge Coupled Device）array detectors. Since a few CCDs are used as the key detector, the performance of the entire instrument is greatly affected by working condition of CCDs. The temperature of CCD modules has a great impact on the instrument measurement accuracy. It requires strict temperature control. The selection of the thermal conductive filler sticking CCD to the radiator is important in the CCD thermal design. Besides，due tothe complex and compact structure, it needs to take into account the anti-pollution of the optical system. Therefore, it puts forward high requirements on the selection of the conductive filler. In this paper, according to the structure characteristics of the CCD modules and the distribution of heat consumption, the thermal analysis tool I-DEAS/TMG is utilized to compute and simulate the temperature level of the CCD modules, while filling in thermal grease and thermal pad respectively. The temperature distribution of CCD heat dissipation in typical operating conditions is obtained. In addition, the heat balance test was carried out under the condition of two kinds of thermal conductive fillers. The thermal control of CCD was tested under various conditions, and the results were compared with the results of thermal analysis. The results show that there are some differences in thermal performance between the two kinds of thermal conductive fillers. Although they both can meet the thermal performance requirements of the instrument, either would be chosen taking account of other conditions and requirements such as anti-pollution and insulation. The content and results of this paper will be a good reference for the thermal design of the CCD in the aerospace optical payload.

GeoLab Concept: The Importance of Sample Selection During Long Duration Human Exploration Mission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Calaway, M. J.; Evans, C. A.; Bell, M. S.; Graff, T. G.

2011-01-01

In the future when humans explore planetary surfaces on the Moon, Mars, and asteroids or beyond, the return of geologic samples to Earth will be a high priority for human spaceflight operations. All future sample return missions will have strict down-mass and volume requirements; methods for in-situ sample assessment and prioritization will be critical for selecting the best samples for return-to-Earth.

Research on Interactive Acquisition and Use of Knowledge.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-11-01

complex and challenging endeavor. Computer scientists faced with the problem of managing software complexity have de - veloped strict design disciplines...handle most-indeed, probably all-- phenomena in the syntax and semantics of natural language. It has also turned out to be well suited for the classes of...Semantics The previous grammar performs a de facto coordination of syntax and semantics by requiring that the (syntactically) preverbal NP play the

Alertness Management Strategies for Operational Contexts

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-08-01

or reproductive disorders. In addition, there is evidence from some studies that night work is associated with increased accide’nts. In fact, Folkard...behaviorally based strategies for avoiding insomnia in many situations, but in some cases, hypnotic medications or so- called "sleeping pills" may be necessary...preferable to being sleep deprived. Choosing the best hypnotic for each situation requires consideration of a variety of factors. From a strictly

Activation of a chloroplast type of fructose bisphosphatase from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii by light-mediated agents

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Huppe, H. C.; Buchanan, B. B.

1989-01-01

A chloroplast type of fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase, a central regulatory enzyme of photosynthetic carbon metabolism, has been partially purified from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. Unlike its counterpart from spinach chloroplasts, the algal FBPase showed a strict requirement for a dithiol reductant irrespective of Mg2+ concentration. The enzymes from the two sources resembled each other immunologically, in subunit molecular mass and response to pH. In the presence of dithiothreitol, the pH optimum for both the algal and spinach enzymes shifted from 8.5 to a more physiologic value of 8.0 as the Mg2+ concentration was increased from 1 to 16 mM. At 1 mM Mg2+, a concentration estimated to be close to physiological, the Chlamydomonas FBPase was active only in the presence of reduced thioredoxin and was most active with Chlamydomonas thioredoxin f. Under these conditions, the enzyme showed a pH optimum of 8.0. The data suggest that the Chlamydomonas enzyme resembles its spinach counterpart in most respects, but it has a stricter requirement for reduction and less strict reductant specificity. A comparison of the properties of the FBPases from Chlamydomonas and spinach will be helpful for elucidating the mechanism of the reductive activation of this enzyme.

‘Peer pressure’ in larval Drosophila?

PubMed Central

Niewalda, Thomas; Jeske, Ines; Michels, Birgit; Gerber, Bertram

2014-01-01

ABSTRACT Understanding social behaviour requires a study case that is simple enough to be tractable, yet complex enough to remain interesting. Do larval Drosophila meet these requirements? In a broad sense, this question can refer to effects of the mere presence of other larvae on the behaviour of a target individual. Here we focused in a more strict sense on ‘peer pressure’, that is on the question of whether the behaviour of a target individual larva is affected by what a surrounding group of larvae is doing. We found that innate olfactory preference of a target individual was neither affected (i) by the level of innate olfactory preference in the surrounding group nor (ii) by the expression of learned olfactory preference in the group. Likewise, learned olfactory preference of a target individual was neither affected (iii) by the level of innate olfactory preference of the surrounding group nor (iv) by the learned olfactory preference the group was expressing. We conclude that larval Drosophila thus do not take note of specifically what surrounding larvae are doing. This implies that in a strict sense, and to the extent tested, there is no social interaction between larvae. These results validate widely used en mass approaches to the behaviour of larval Drosophila. PMID:24907371

'Peer pressure' in larval Drosophila?

PubMed

Niewalda, Thomas; Jeske, Ines; Michels, Birgit; Gerber, Bertram

2014-06-06

Understanding social behaviour requires a study case that is simple enough to be tractable, yet complex enough to remain interesting. Do larval Drosophila meet these requirements? In a broad sense, this question can refer to effects of the mere presence of other larvae on the behaviour of a target individual. Here we focused in a more strict sense on 'peer pressure', that is on the question of whether the behaviour of a target individual larva is affected by what a surrounding group of larvae is doing. We found that innate olfactory preference of a target individual was neither affected (i) by the level of innate olfactory preference in the surrounding group nor (ii) by the expression of learned olfactory preference in the group. Likewise, learned olfactory preference of a target individual was neither affected (iii) by the level of innate olfactory preference of the surrounding group nor (iv) by the learned olfactory preference the group was expressing. We conclude that larval Drosophila thus do not take note of specifically what surrounding larvae are doing. This implies that in a strict sense, and to the extent tested, there is no social interaction between larvae. These results validate widely used en mass approaches to the behaviour of larval Drosophila. © 2014. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

Modeling evaporation using models that are not boundary-layer regulated.

PubMed

Fingas, Merv F

2004-02-27

Experimentation shows that oil is not strictly air boundary-layer regulated. The fact that oil evaporation is not strictly boundary-layer regulated implies that a simplistic evaporation equation suffices to describe the process. The following processes do not require consideration: wind velocity, turbulence level, area, thickness, and scale size. The factors important to evaporation are time and temperature. The equation parameters found experimentally for the evaporation of oils can be related to commonly available distillation data for the oil. Specifically, it has been found that the distillation percentage at 180 degrees C correlates well with the equation parameters. Relationships have been developed enabling calculation of evaporation equations directly from distillation data: percentage evaporated = 0.165 (%D)ln(t) where %D is the percentage (by weight) distilled at 180 degrees C and t is the time in minutes. These equations were combined with the equations generated to account for the temperature variations: percentage evaporated = [0.165(%D)+0.045(T-15))ln(t) The results have application in oil spill prediction and modeling. The simple equations can be applied using readily available data such as sea temperature and time. Old equations required oil vapour pressure, specialized distillation data, spill area, wind speed, and mass transfer coefficients, all of which are difficult to obtain.

Boosted ARTMAP: modifications to fuzzy ARTMAP motivated by boosting theory.

PubMed

Verzi, Stephen J; Heileman, Gregory L; Georgiopoulos, Michael

2006-05-01

In this paper, several modifications to the Fuzzy ARTMAP neural network architecture are proposed for conducting classification in complex, possibly noisy, environments. The goal of these modifications is to improve upon the generalization performance of Fuzzy ART-based neural networks, such as Fuzzy ARTMAP, in these situations. One of the major difficulties of employing Fuzzy ARTMAP on such learning problems involves over-fitting of the training data. Structural risk minimization is a machine-learning framework that addresses the issue of over-fitting by providing a backbone for analysis as well as an impetus for the design of better learning algorithms. The theory of structural risk minimization reveals a trade-off between training error and classifier complexity in reducing generalization error, which will be exploited in the learning algorithms proposed in this paper. Boosted ART extends Fuzzy ART by allowing the spatial extent of each cluster formed to be adjusted independently. Boosted ARTMAP generalizes upon Fuzzy ARTMAP by allowing non-zero training error in an effort to reduce the hypothesis complexity and hence improve overall generalization performance. Although Boosted ARTMAP is strictly speaking not a boosting algorithm, the changes it encompasses were motivated by the goals that one strives to achieve when employing boosting. Boosted ARTMAP is an on-line learner, it does not require excessive parameter tuning to operate, and it reduces precisely to Fuzzy ARTMAP for particular parameter values. Another architecture described in this paper is Structural Boosted ARTMAP, which uses both Boosted ART and Boosted ARTMAP to perform structural risk minimization learning. Structural Boosted ARTMAP will allow comparison of the capabilities of off-line versus on-line learning as well as empirical risk minimization versus structural risk minimization using Fuzzy ARTMAP-based neural network architectures. Both empirical and theoretical results are presented to enhance the understanding of these architectures.

7 CFR 28.424 - Strict Low Middling Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Strict Low Middling Spotted Color. 28.424 Section 28.424 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Spotted Color. Strict Low Middling Spotted Color is color which is within the range represented by a set...

7 CFR 28.433 - Strict Low Middling Tinged Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Strict Low Middling Tinged Color. 28.433 Section 28.433 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Tinged Color. Strict Low Middling Tinged Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of...

7 CFR 28.433 - Strict Low Middling Tinged Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Strict Low Middling Tinged Color. 28.433 Section 28.433 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Tinged Color. Strict Low Middling Tinged Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of...

7 CFR 28.422 - Strict Middling Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Strict Middling Spotted Color. 28.422 Section 28.422 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Color. Strict Middling Spotted Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of samples...

7 CFR 28.426 - Strict Good Ordinary Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Strict Good Ordinary Spotted Color. 28.426 Section 28.426 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Spotted Color. Strict Good Ordinary Spotted Color is color which is within the range represented by a set...

7 CFR 28.426 - Strict Good Ordinary Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Strict Good Ordinary Spotted Color. 28.426 Section 28.426 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Spotted Color. Strict Good Ordinary Spotted Color is color which is within the range represented by a set...

7 CFR 28.424 - Strict Low Middling Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Strict Low Middling Spotted Color. 28.424 Section 28.424 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Spotted Color. Strict Low Middling Spotted Color is color which is within the range represented by a set...

7 CFR 28.424 - Strict Low Middling Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Strict Low Middling Spotted Color. 28.424 Section 28.424 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Spotted Color. Strict Low Middling Spotted Color is color which is within the range represented by a set...

7 CFR 28.433 - Strict Low Middling Tinged Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Strict Low Middling Tinged Color. 28.433 Section 28.433 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Tinged Color. Strict Low Middling Tinged Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of...

7 CFR 28.426 - Strict Good Ordinary Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Strict Good Ordinary Spotted Color. 28.426 Section 28.426 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Spotted Color. Strict Good Ordinary Spotted Color is color which is within the range represented by a set...

7 CFR 28.422 - Strict Middling Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Strict Middling Spotted Color. 28.422 Section 28.422 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Color. Strict Middling Spotted Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of samples...

7 CFR 28.424 - Strict Low Middling Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Strict Low Middling Spotted Color. 28.424 Section 28.424 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Spotted Color. Strict Low Middling Spotted Color is color which is within the range represented by a set...

7 CFR 28.422 - Strict Middling Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Strict Middling Spotted Color. 28.422 Section 28.422 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Color. Strict Middling Spotted Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of samples...

7 CFR 28.433 - Strict Low Middling Tinged Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Strict Low Middling Tinged Color. 28.433 Section 28.433 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Tinged Color. Strict Low Middling Tinged Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of...

7 CFR 28.426 - Strict Good Ordinary Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Strict Good Ordinary Spotted Color. 28.426 Section 28.426 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Spotted Color. Strict Good Ordinary Spotted Color is color which is within the range represented by a set...

7 CFR 28.422 - Strict Middling Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Strict Middling Spotted Color. 28.422 Section 28.422 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Color. Strict Middling Spotted Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of samples...

7 CFR 28.433 - Strict Low Middling Tinged Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Strict Low Middling Tinged Color. 28.433 Section 28.433 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Tinged Color. Strict Low Middling Tinged Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of...

7 CFR 28.422 - Strict Middling Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Strict Middling Spotted Color. 28.422 Section 28.422 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Color. Strict Middling Spotted Color is color which is within the range represented by a set of samples...

7 CFR 28.426 - Strict Good Ordinary Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Strict Good Ordinary Spotted Color. 28.426 Section 28.426 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Spotted Color. Strict Good Ordinary Spotted Color is color which is within the range represented by a set...

7 CFR 28.424 - Strict Low Middling Spotted Color.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Strict Low Middling Spotted Color. 28.424 Section 28.424 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards... Spotted Color. Strict Low Middling Spotted Color is color which is within the range represented by a set...

Emissions of soot particles from heat generators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lyubov, V. K.; Popov, A. N.; Popova, E. I.

2017-11-01

«Soot carbon» or «Soot» - incomplete combustion or thermal decomposition particulate carbon product of hydrocarbons consisting of particles of various shapes and sizes. Soot particles are harmful substances Class 2 and like a dust dispersed by wind for thousands of kilometers. Soot have more powerful negative factor than carbon dioxide. Therefore, more strict requirements on ecological and economical performance for energy facilities at Arctic areas have to be developed to protect fragile Arctic ecosystems and global climate change from degradation and destruction. Quantity of soot particles in the flue gases of energy facilities is a criterion of effectiveness for organization of the burning process. Some of heat generators do not provide the required energy and environmental efficiency which results in irrational use of energy resources and acute pollution of environment. The paper summarizes the results of experimental study of solid particles emission from wide range of capacity boilers burning different organic fuels (natural gas, fuel oil, coal and biofuels). Special attention is paid to environmental and energy performance of the biofuels combustion. Emissions of soot particles PM2.5 are listed. Structure, composition and dimensions of entrained particles with the use of electronic scanning microscope Zeiss SIGMA VP were also studied. The results reveal an impact of several factors on soot particles emission.

An examination of some safety issues among commercial motorcyclists in Nigeria: a case study.

PubMed

Arosanyin, Godwin Tunde; Olowosulu, Adekunle Taiwo; Oyeyemi, Gafar Matanmi

2013-01-01

The reduction of road crashes and injuries among motorcyclists in Nigeria requires a system inquiry into some safety issues at pre-crash, crash and post-crash stages to guide action plans. This paper examines safety issues such as age restriction, motorcycle engine capacity, highway code awareness, licence holding, helmet usage, crash involvement, rescue and payment for treatment among commercial motorcyclists. The primary data derived from a structured questionnaire administered to 334 commercial motorcyclists in Samaru, Zaria were analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression technique. There was total compliance with age restriction and motorcycle engine capacity. About 41.8% of the operators were not aware of the existence of the highway code. The odds of licence holding increased with highway code awareness, education with above senior secondary as the reference category and earnings. The odds of crash involvement decreased with highway code awareness, earnings and mode of operation. About 84% of the motorcyclists did not use crash helmet, in spite of being aware of the benefit, and 65.4% of motorcycle crashes was found to be with other road users. The promotion of safety among motorcyclists therefore requires strict traffic law enforcement and modification of road design to segregate traffic and protect pedestrians.

Safety evaluation of cosmetics in the EU. Reality and challenges for the toxicologist.

PubMed

Pauwels, Marleen; Rogiers, Vera

2004-06-15

Council Directive 76/768/EEC, its seven amendments and 30 adaptations to technical progress form the basis of the cosmetic EU legislation today. There are actually four key principles for safety in the cosmetic legislation. (i) The full responsibility for the safety of cosmetics for human health is placed on the manufacturer, first importer in the EU or marketer. (ii) The safety evaluation of finished products is based on safety of individual ingredients, more specifically on their chemical structure, toxicological profile and their level of exposure. (iii) A compilation of information on each cosmetic product (dossier) must be kept readily available for inspection by the competent authorities of the Member State concerned. This information source, usually called a technical information file (TIF) or product information file/requirements (PIF(R)), contains, as the most important part, the safety assessment of the product undersigned by a competent safety assessor. (iv) The use of validated replacement alternative methods instead of animal testing forms the 4th key principle for safety of cosmetic products on the EU market. The 7th amendment imposes strict deadlines for the abolition of animal in vivo studies on cosmetic ingredients. These legal requirements induce a number of important challenges for the cosmetic industry and more specifically for the toxicologist involved as safety assessor.

Age related changes in the bone tissue under conditions of hypokinesia

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Podrushnyak, E. P.; Suslov, E. I.

1980-01-01

Microroentgenography of nine young people, aged 24-29, before and after hypokinesia (16-37 days strict bed rest), showed that the heel bone density of those with initially high bone density generally decreased and that of those with initially low bone density generally increased. X-ray structural analysis of the femurs of 25 corpses of accidentally killed healthy people, aged 18-70, data are presented and discussed, with the conclusion that the bone hydroxyapatite crystal structure stabilizes by ages 20 to 25, is stable from ages 25 to 60 and decreases in density after age 60. It is concluded that bone tissue structure changes, both with age, and in a comparatively short time in hypokinesia.

First-principles study of graphene under c-HfO{sub 2}(111) layers: Electronic structures and transport properties

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kaneko, Tomoaki, E-mail: kaneko@flex.phys.tohoku.ac.jp; Materials Research Consortium for Energy Efficient Electronic Devices; Ohno, Takahisa, E-mail: OHNO.Takahisa@nims.go.jp

2016-08-22

We investigated the electronic properties, stability, and transport of graphene under c-HfO{sub 2}(111) layers by performing first-principles calculations with special attention to the chemical bonding between graphene and HfO{sub 2} surfaces. When the interface of HfO{sub 2}/graphene is terminated by an O layer, the linear dispersion of graphene is preserved and the degradation of transport is suppressed. For other interface structures, HfO{sub 2} is tightly adsorbed on graphene and the transport is strictly limited. In terms of the stability of the interface structures, an O-terminated interface is preferable, which is achieved under an O-deficient condition.

Crystal structure of Clostridium difficile toxin A

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chumbler, Nicole M.; Rutherford, Stacey A.; Zhang, Zhifen

Clostridium difficile infection is the leading cause of hospital-acquired diarrhoea and pseudomembranous colitis. Disease is mediated by the actions of two toxins, TcdA and TcdB, which cause the diarrhoea, as well as inflammation and necrosis within the colon. The toxins are large (308 and 270 kDa, respectively), homologous (47% amino acid identity) glucosyltransferases that target small GTPases within the host. The multidomain toxins enter cells by receptor-mediated endocytosis and, upon exposure to the low pH of the endosome, insert into and deliver two enzymatic domains across the membrane. Eukaryotic inositol-hexakisphosphate (InsP6) binds an autoprocessing domain to activate a proteolysis eventmore » that releases the N-terminal glucosyltransferase domain into the cytosol. Here, we report the crystal structure of a 1,832-amino-acid fragment of TcdA (TcdA 1832), which reveals a requirement for zinc in the mechanism of toxin autoprocessing and an extended delivery domain that serves as a scaffold for the hydrophobic α-helices involved in pH-dependent pore formation. A surface loop of the delivery domain whose sequence is strictly conserved among all large clostridial toxins is shown to be functionally important, and is highlighted for future efforts in the development of vaccines and novel therapeutics.« less

[Medical Image Registration Method Based on a Semantic Model with Directional Visual Words].

PubMed

Jin, Yufei; Ma, Meng; Yang, Xin

2016-04-01

Medical image registration is very challenging due to the various imaging modality,image quality,wide inter-patients variability,and intra-patient variability with disease progressing of medical images,with strict requirement for robustness.Inspired by semantic model,especially the recent tremendous progress in computer vision tasks under bag-of-visual-word framework,we set up a novel semantic model to match medical images.Since most of medical images have poor contrast,small dynamic range,and involving only intensities and so on,the traditional visual word models do not perform very well.To benefit from the advantages from the relative works,we proposed a novel visual word model named directional visual words,which performs better on medical images.Then we applied this model to do medical registration.In our experiment,the critical anatomical structures were first manually specified by experts.Then we adopted the directional visual word,the strategy of spatial pyramid searching from coarse to fine,and the k-means algorithm to help us locating the positions of the key structures accurately.Sequentially,we shall register corresponding images by the areas around these positions.The results of the experiments which were performed on real cardiac images showed that our method could achieve high registration accuracy in some specific areas.

A Structural Biology and Protein Engineering Approach to the Development of Antidotes Against the Inhibition of Human Acetylcholinesterase by OP-based Nerve Agents

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-05-01

structures that we reported earlier (Kryger et al [2000] Acta Crystallogr D Biol Crystallogr 56:1385-1394) were of complexes with the snake venom...interactions between conserved residues in the loop connecting α13 to α14 and residues from helices α18’-α19’, and, conversely, between residues in the...residues in the 4-helix bundle, including Glu376, Thr383, Asp384, Trp385, Gln508, Gln527, Phe535 and Lys538 (hAChE numbering), are strictly conserved in

Negotiation Support System’s Impact on the Socio-Emotional Environment: A Research Design Framework

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-03-01

conflict environment and develop some proposed effects that Negotiation Support Systems (NSS) have on the socio- emotional climate. This introduction of...assessment of current NSS structure, processes and capabilities. Section IV provides a theoretical discussion of conflict and the socio- emotional environment ...model. First, strict economic rationalization does not take into account social/normative issues present --n the negotiation environment . Thus, in an

Dental Occlusion and Ophthalmology: A Literature Review

PubMed Central

Marchili, Nicola; Ortu, Eleonora; Pietropaoli, Davide; Cattaneo, Ruggero; Monaco, Annalisa

2016-01-01

Stomatognathic system is strictly correlated to other anatomical regions; many studies investigated relationship between temporomandibular joint and posture, several articles describe cranio-facial pain from dental causes, such as trigger points. Until now less interest has been given to connections between dental occlusion and ophthalmology, even if they are important and involving. Clinical experience in dental practice claims that mandibular latero-deviation is connected both to eye dominance and to defects of ocular convergence. The trigeminal nerve is the largest and most complex of the twelve cranial nerves. The trigeminal system represents the connection between somitic structures and those derived from the branchial arches, collecting the proprioception from both somitic structures and oculomotor muscles. The intermedius nucleus of the medulla is a small perihypoglossal brainstem nucleus, which acts to integrate information from the head and neck and relays it on to the nucleus of the solitary tract where autonomic responses are generated. This intriguing neurophysiological web led our research group to investigate anatomical and functional associations between dental occlusion and vision. In conclusion, nervous system and functional pathways strictly connect vision and dental occlusion, and in the future both dentists and oculists should be more and more aware of this correlation for a better diagnosis and therapy. PMID:27733873

Evidence of Strict Stereospecificity in the Structure of sn-1,2-Diacyl-3-Acetyl-Glycerols from Euonymus maximowiczianus Seeds Using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy.

PubMed

Sidorov, Roman A; Shashkov, Alexander S; Solovyev, Pavel A; Gorshkova, Elena N; Tsydendambaev, Vladimir D

2018-05-02

Asymmetric, optically active sn-1,2-diacyl-3-acetyl-glycerols (AcDAG) have been known to scientists for several decades. However, to date, the problem of their structure has not been definitely resolved, which has led to a vast diversity of terms used for their designation in the literature. Using two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance, we have investigated AcDAG from the mature seeds of Euonymus maximowiczianus, from which we have been able to both identify a correlation of the methyl group in acetic acid residue with protons at the carbon atom at sn-3 position in the glycerol residue of the AcDAG molecule and, for the first time, demonstrate that this correlation is observed exclusively with one carbon atom at the α-position, but not with two as would have been expected in case of a racemic mixture. Moreover, results of our analysis of AcDAG isolated from the seeds of E. maximowiczianus directly confirm that diacylglycerol-3-acetyl-transferase is responsible for their biosynthesis, which reveals a strict specificity not only to acetyl-CoA as one of the substrates but also to the sn-3-position of the glycerol residue in sn-1,2-diacylglycerol during their biosynthesis. © 2018 AOCS.

Short-term fasting induces intra-hepatic lipid accumulation and decreases intestinal mass without reduced brush-border enzyme activity in mink (Mustela vison) small intestine.

PubMed

Bjornvad, C R; Elnif, J; Sangild, P T

2004-11-01

For many mammalian species short-term fasting is associated with intestinal atrophy and decreased digestive capacity. Under natural conditions, strictly carnivorous animals often experience prey scarcity during winter, and they may therefore be particularly well adapted to short-term food deprivation. To examine how the carnivorous gastrointestinal tract is affected by fasting, small-intestinal structure, brush-border enzyme activities and hepatic structure and function were examined in fed mink (controls) and mink that had been fasted for 1-10 days. During the first 1-2 days of fasting, intestinal mass decreased more rapidly than total body mass and villus heights were reduced 25-40%. In contrast, tissue-specific activity of the brush-border enzymes sucrase, maltase, lactase, aminopeptidase A and dipeptidylpeptidase IV increased 0.5- to 1.5-fold at this time, but returned to prefasting levels after 6 days of fasting. After 6-10 days of fasting there was a marked increase in the activity of hepatic enzymes and accumulation of intra-hepatic lipid vacuoles. Thus, mink may be a useful model for studying fasting-induced intestinal atrophy and adaptation as well as mechanisms involved in accumulation of intra-hepatic lipids following food deprivation in strictly carnivorous domestic mammals, such as cats and ferrets.

"Coding" and "Decoding": hypothesis for the regulatory mechanism involved in heparan sulfate biosynthesis.

PubMed

Zhang, Xu; Wang, Fengshan; Sheng, Juzheng

2016-06-16

Heparan sulfate (HS) is widely distributed in mammalian tissues in the form of HS proteoglycans, which play essential roles in various physiological and pathological processes. In contrast to the template-guided processes involved in the synthesis of DNA and proteins, HS biosynthesis is not believed to involve a template. However, it appears that the final structure of HS chains was strictly regulated. Herein, we report research based hypothesis that two major steps, namely "coding" and "decoding" steps, are involved in the biosynthesis of HS, which strictly regulate its chemical structure and biological activity. The "coding" process in this context is based on the distribution of sulfate moieties on the amino groups of the glucosamine residues in the HS chains. The sulfation of these amine groups is catalyzed by N-deacetylase/N-sulfotransferase, which has four isozymes. The composition and distribution of sulfate groups and iduronic acid residues on the glycan chains of HS are determined by several other modification enzymes, which can recognize these coding sequences (i.e., the "decoding" process). The degree and pattern of the sulfation and epimerization in the HS chains determines the extent of their interactions with several different protein factors, which further influences their biological activity. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Flavonoids, flavonoid metabolites, and phenolic acids inhibit oxidative stress in the neuronal cell line HT-22 monitored by ECIS and MTT assay: a comparative study.

PubMed

Kling, Beata; Bücherl, Daniel; Palatzky, Peter; Matysik, Frank-Michael; Decker, Michael; Wegener, Joachim; Heilmann, Jörg

2014-03-28

A real-time and label-free in vitro assay based on electric cell-substrate impedance sensing (ECIS) was established, validated, and compared to an end-point MTT assay within an experimental trial addressing the cytoprotective effects of 19 different flavonoids, flavonoid metabolites, and phenolic acids and their methyl esters on the HT-22 neuronal cell line, after induction of oxidative stress with tert-butyl hydroperoxide. Among the flavonoids under study, only those with a catechol unit and an additional 4-keto group provided cytoprotection. The presence of a 2,3-double bond was not a structural prerequisite for a neuroprotective effect. In the case of the phenolics, catechol substitution was the only structural requirement for activity. The flavonoids and other phenolics with a ferulic acid substitution or a single hydroxy group showed no activity. Electrochemical characterization of all compounds via square-wave voltammetry provided a rather specific correlation between cytoprotective activity and redox potential for the active flavonoids, but not for the active phenolics with a low molecular weight. Moreover this study was used to compare label-free ECIS recordings with results of the established MTT assay. Whereas the former provides time-resolved and thus entirely unbiased information on changes of cell morphology that are unequivocally associated with cell death, the latter requires predefined exposure times and a strict causality between metabolic activity and cell death. However, MTT assays are based on standard lab equipment and provide a more economic way to higher throughput.

Open consent, biobanking and data protection law: can open consent be 'informed' under the forthcoming data protection regulation?

PubMed

Hallinan, Dara; Friedewald, Michael

2015-01-01

This article focuses on whether a certain form of consent used by biobanks--open consent--is compatible with the Proposed Data Protection Regulation. In an open consent procedure, the biobank requests consent once from the data subject for all future research uses of genetic material and data. However, as biobanks process personal data, they must comply with data protection law. Data protection law is currently undergoing reform. The Proposed Data Protection Regulation is the culmination of this reform and, if voted into law, will constitute a new legal framework for biobanking. The Regulation puts strict conditions on consent--in particular relating to information which must be given to the data subject. It seems clear that open consent cannot meet these requirements. 4 categories of information cannot be provided with adequate specificity: purpose, recipient, possible third country transfers, data collected. However, whilst open consent cannot meet the formal requirements laid out by the Regulation, this is not to say that these requirements are substantially undebateable. Two arguments could be put forward suggesting the applicable consent requirements should be rethought. First, from policy documents regarding the drafting process, it seems that the informational requirements in the Regulation are so strict in order to protect the data subject from risks inherent in the use of the consent mechanism in a certain context--exemplified by the online context. There are substantial differences between this context and the biobanking context. Arguably, a consent transaction in the biobanking does not present the same type of risk to the data subject. If the risks are different, then perhaps there are also grounds for a reconsideration of consent requirements? Second, an argument can be made that the legislator drafted the Regulation based on certain assumptions as to the nature of 'data'. The authors argue that these assumptions are difficult to apply to genetic data and accordingly a different approach to consent might be preferable. Such an approach might be more open consent friendly.

Air pollution control residues from waste incineration: current UK situation and assessment of alternative technologies.

PubMed

Rani, D Amutha; Boccaccini, A R; Deegan, D; Cheeseman, C R

2008-11-01

Current disposal options for APC residues in the UK and alternative treatment technologies developed world-wide have been reviewed. APC residues are currently landfilled in the UK where they undergo in situ solidification, although the future acceptability of this option is uncertain because the EU waste acceptance criteria (WAC) introduce strict limits on leaching that are difficult to achieve. Other APC residue treatment processes have been developed which are reported to reduce leaching to below relevant regulatory limits. The Ferrox process, the VKI process, the WES-PHix process, stabilisation/solidification using cementitious binders and a range of thermal treatment processes are reviewed. Thermal treatment technologies convert APC residues combined with other wastes into inert glass or glass-ceramics that encapsulate heavy metals. The waste management industry will inevitably use the cheapest available option for treating APC residues and strict interpretation and enforcement of waste legislation is required if new, potentially more sustainable technologies are to become commercially viable.

GAMETES: a fast, direct algorithm for generating pure, strict, epistatic models with random architectures.

PubMed

Urbanowicz, Ryan J; Kiralis, Jeff; Sinnott-Armstrong, Nicholas A; Heberling, Tamra; Fisher, Jonathan M; Moore, Jason H

2012-10-01

Geneticists who look beyond single locus disease associations require additional strategies for the detection of complex multi-locus effects. Epistasis, a multi-locus masking effect, presents a particular challenge, and has been the target of bioinformatic development. Thorough evaluation of new algorithms calls for simulation studies in which known disease models are sought. To date, the best methods for generating simulated multi-locus epistatic models rely on genetic algorithms. However, such methods are computationally expensive, difficult to adapt to multiple objectives, and unlikely to yield models with a precise form of epistasis which we refer to as pure and strict. Purely and strictly epistatic models constitute the worst-case in terms of detecting disease associations, since such associations may only be observed if all n-loci are included in the disease model. This makes them an attractive gold standard for simulation studies considering complex multi-locus effects. We introduce GAMETES, a user-friendly software package and algorithm which generates complex biallelic single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) disease models for simulation studies. GAMETES rapidly and precisely generates random, pure, strict n-locus models with specified genetic constraints. These constraints include heritability, minor allele frequencies of the SNPs, and population prevalence. GAMETES also includes a simple dataset simulation strategy which may be utilized to rapidly generate an archive of simulated datasets for given genetic models. We highlight the utility and limitations of GAMETES with an example simulation study using MDR, an algorithm designed to detect epistasis. GAMETES is a fast, flexible, and precise tool for generating complex n-locus models with random architectures. While GAMETES has a limited ability to generate models with higher heritabilities, it is proficient at generating the lower heritability models typically used in simulation studies evaluating new algorithms. In addition, the GAMETES modeling strategy may be flexibly combined with any dataset simulation strategy. Beyond dataset simulation, GAMETES could be employed to pursue theoretical characterization of genetic models and epistasis.

Aspects and Some Results on Passivity and Positivity of Dynamic Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

De la Sen, M.

2017-12-01

This paper is devoted to discuss certain aspects of passivity results in dynamic systems and the characterization of the regenerative systems counterparts. In particular, the various concepts of passivity as standard passivity, strict input passivity, strict output passivity and very strict passivity (i.e. joint strict input and output passivity) are given and related to the existence of a storage function and a dissipation function. Later on, the obtained results are related to external positivity of systems and positivity or strict positivity of the transfer matrices and transfer functions in the time-invariant case. On the other hand, it is discussed how to achieve or how eventually to increase the passivity effects via linear feedback by the synthesis of the appropriate feed-forward or feedback controllers or, simply, by adding a positive parallel direct input-output matrix interconnection gain.

Prevalence and clinical significance of left bundle branch block according to classical or strict definition criteria in permanent pacemaker patients.

PubMed

Mazza, Andrea; Bendini, Maria Grazia; De Cristofaro, Raffaele; Lovecchio, Mariolina; Valsecchi, Sergio; Leggio, Massimo; Boriani, Giuseppe

2017-06-01

Previous studies have shown that the presence of left bundle branch block (LBBB) is associated with an increased risk of cardiac mortality and heart failure (HF). Recently, new criteria to define strict LBBB have been proposed: QRS duration ≥140 ms for men and ≥130 ms for women, along with mid-QRS notching or slurring in ≥2 contiguous leads. We assessed the prevalence and prognostic significance of LBBB according to classical (QRS duration ≥120ms) and strict criteria in permanent pacemaker patients. We retrospectively enrolled 723 consecutive patients who had undergone single- or dual-chamber pacemaker implantation at the study center from July 2002 to December 2014. Patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction ≤35% or a prior diagnosis of HF were excluded. LBBB was reported in 54 (7%) patients, and strict-LBBB in 15 (2%) patients. During a median follow-up of 48 months (range, 18-92 months), 147 (20%) patients reached the combined endpoint of death or HF hospitalization. Patients with LBBB and those with strict-LBBB displayed significantly higher rates of death or HF hospitalization (log-rank test, all P < 0.0001). In particular, strict-LBBB was associated with the worst outcome. The presence of LBBB according to classical definition criteria (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.98, confidence interval [CI]: 1.23-3.19, P = 0.005) and to strict criteria (HR = 2.20; CI: 1.04-4.65; P = 0.039) were both confirmed as independent predictors of death or HF hospitalization after adjustment for relevant clinical covariates. Among patients who had undergone standard pacemaker implantation, the prevalence of LBBB was 7% according to classical definition criteria and 2% according to strict criteria. The presence of LBBB, and particularly of strict-LBBB, at the baseline predicted a poor outcome in terms of death or HF hospitalization. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Summation by parts, projections, and stability

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Olsson, Pelle

1993-01-01

We have derived stability results for high-order finite difference approximations of mixed hyperbolic-parabolic initial-boundary value problems (IBVP). The results are obtained using summation by parts and a new way of representing general linear boundary conditions as an orthogonal projection. By slightly rearranging the analytic equations, we can prove strict stability for hyperbolic-parabolic IBVP. Furthermore, we generalize our technique so as to yield strict stability on curvilinear non-smooth domains in two space dimensions. Finally, we show how to incorporate inhomogeneous boundary data while retaining strict stability. Using the same procedure one can prove strict stability in higher dimensions as well.

A Computational Methodology to Overcome the Challenges Associated With the Search for Specific Enzyme Targets to Develop Drugs Against Leishmania major

PubMed Central

Catharina, Larissa; Lima, Carlyle Ribeiro; Franca, Alexander; Guimarães, Ana Carolina Ramos; Alves-Ferreira, Marcelo; Tuffery, Pierre; Derreumaux, Philippe; Carels, Nicolas

2017-01-01

We present an approach for detecting enzymes that are specific of Leishmania major compared with Homo sapiens and provide targets that may assist research in drug development. This approach is based on traditional techniques of sequence homology comparison by similarity search and Markov modeling; it integrates the characterization of enzymatic functionality, secondary and tertiary protein structures, protein domain architecture, and metabolic environment. From 67 enzymes represented by 42 enzymatic activities classified by AnEnPi (Analogous Enzymes Pipeline) as specific for L major compared with H sapiens, only 40 (23 Enzyme Commission [EC] numbers) could actually be considered as strictly specific of L major and 27 enzymes (19 EC numbers) were disregarded for having ambiguous homologies or analogies with H sapiens. Among the 40 strictly specific enzymes, we identified sterol 24-C-methyltransferase, pyruvate phosphate dikinase, trypanothione synthetase, and RNA-editing ligase as 4 essential enzymes for L major that may serve as targets for drug development. PMID:28638238

A Computational Methodology to Overcome the Challenges Associated With the Search for Specific Enzyme Targets to Develop Drugs Against Leishmania major.

PubMed

Catharina, Larissa; Lima, Carlyle Ribeiro; Franca, Alexander; Guimarães, Ana Carolina Ramos; Alves-Ferreira, Marcelo; Tuffery, Pierre; Derreumaux, Philippe; Carels, Nicolas

2017-01-01

We present an approach for detecting enzymes that are specific of Leishmania major compared with Homo sapiens and provide targets that may assist research in drug development. This approach is based on traditional techniques of sequence homology comparison by similarity search and Markov modeling; it integrates the characterization of enzymatic functionality, secondary and tertiary protein structures, protein domain architecture, and metabolic environment. From 67 enzymes represented by 42 enzymatic activities classified by AnEnPi (Analogous Enzymes Pipeline) as specific for L major compared with H sapiens , only 40 (23 Enzyme Commission [EC] numbers) could actually be considered as strictly specific of L major and 27 enzymes (19 EC numbers) were disregarded for having ambiguous homologies or analogies with H sapiens . Among the 40 strictly specific enzymes, we identified sterol 24-C-methyltransferase, pyruvate phosphate dikinase, trypanothione synthetase, and RNA-editing ligase as 4 essential enzymes for L major that may serve as targets for drug development.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mehra, S.; Bryce, T.

Sedco Forex has recently completed a new land drilling rig, currently deployed in Gabon, that integrates well construction activities with multiskilling to create cost savings across the board in drilling operations. Historically, operators have produced a comprehensive tender package specifying strictly the type and size of individual rig components and the number of personnel required to drill. In this case, the drilling contractor provides a fit-for-purpose rig, consistent with field location, well profile, operator`s priorities, and local constraints.

Assessing Socioeconomic Impacts of Cascading Infrastructure Disruptions in a Dynamic Human-Infrastructure Network

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-07-01

CAC common access card DoD Department of Defense FOUO For Official Use Only GIS geographic information systems GUI graphical user interface HISA...as per requirements of this project, is UNCLASS/For Official Use Only (FOUO), with access re- stricted to DOD common access card (CAC) users. Key...Boko Haram Fuel Dump Discovered in Maiduguru.” Available: http://saharareporters.com/2015/10/01/another-boko-haram-fuel- dump - discovered-maiduguri

Structure and mechanism of the ATP synthase membrane motor inferred from quantitative integrative modeling.

PubMed

Leone, Vanessa; Faraldo-Gómez, José D

2016-12-01

Two subunits within the transmembrane domain of the ATP synthase-the c-ring and subunit a-energize the production of 90% of cellular ATP by transducing an electrochemical gradient of H + or Na + into rotational motion. The nature of this turbine-like energy conversion mechanism has been elusive for decades, owing to the lack of definitive structural information on subunit a or its c-ring interface. In a recent breakthrough, several structures of this complex were resolved by cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), but the modest resolution of the data has led to divergent interpretations. Moreover, the unexpected architecture of the complex has cast doubts on a wealth of earlier biochemical analyses conducted to probe this structure. Here, we use quantitative molecular-modeling methods to derive a structure of the a-c complex that is not only objectively consistent with the cryo-EM data, but also with correlated mutation analyses of both subunits and with prior cross-linking and cysteine accessibility measurements. This systematic, integrative approach reveals unambiguously the topology of subunit a and its relationship with the c-ring. Mapping of known Cd 2+ block sites and conserved protonatable residues onto the structure delineates two noncontiguous pathways across the complex, connecting two adjacent proton-binding sites in the c-ring to the space on either side of the membrane. The location of these binding sites and of a strictly conserved arginine on subunit a, which serves to prevent protons from hopping between them, explains the directionality of the rotary mechanism and its strict coupling to the proton-motive force. Additionally, mapping of mutations conferring resistance to oligomycin unexpectedly reveals that this prototypical inhibitor may bind to two distinct sites at the a-c interface, explaining its ability to block the mechanism of the enzyme irrespective of the direction of rotation of the c-ring. In summary, this study is a stepping stone toward establishing the mechanism of the ATP synthase at the atomic level.

Measurement of the inertial constants of a rigid or flexible structure of arbitrary share through a vibration test

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Engrand, D.; Cortial, J.

1983-01-01

The inertial constants of an aircraft rocket, or of any other structure, are defined without materializing any rotating axis. The necessary equipment is very similar to that used normally for ground vibration tests. An elastic suspension is used to obtain the total natural modes corresponding to the motions of the structure as a solid. From the measurements of the generalized masses of these modes it is possible to compute the inertial constants: (1) center of inertia; (2) tensor of inertia; and (3) mass. When the structure is not strictly rigid a purification process, based on the mean square method makes it possible to rigidify it at the price of some approximations and a few more measurements. Eventual additional masses, that are not parts of the structure, can be taken into account.

7 CFR 28.525 - Symbols and code numbers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... designations in inches. (a) Symbols and Code numbers used for Color Grades of American Upland Cotton. Color... 41 Low Middling LM 51 Strict Good Ordinary SGO 61 Good Ordinary GO 71 Good Middling Light Spotted GM Lt SP 12 Strict Middling Light Spotted SM Lt Sp 22 Middling Light Spotted Mid Lt Sp 32 Strict Low...

7 CFR 28.525 - Symbols and code numbers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... designations in inches. (a) Symbols and Code numbers used for Color Grades of American Upland Cotton. Color... 41 Low Middling LM 51 Strict Good Ordinary SGO 61 Good Ordinary GO 71 Good Middling Light Spotted GM Lt SP 12 Strict Middling Light Spotted SM Lt Sp 22 Middling Light Spotted Mid Lt Sp 32 Strict Low...

7 CFR 28.525 - Symbols and code numbers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... designations in inches. (a) Symbols and Code numbers used for Color Grades of American Upland Cotton. Color... 41 Low Middling LM 51 Strict Good Ordinary SGO 61 Good Ordinary GO 71 Good Middling Light Spotted GM Lt SP 12 Strict Middling Light Spotted SM Lt Sp 22 Middling Light Spotted Mid Lt Sp 32 Strict Low...

7 CFR 28.525 - Symbols and code numbers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... designations in inches. (a) Symbols and Code numbers used for Color Grades of American Upland Cotton. Color... 41 Low Middling LM 51 Strict Good Ordinary SGO 61 Good Ordinary GO 71 Good Middling Light Spotted GM Lt SP 12 Strict Middling Light Spotted SM Lt Sp 22 Middling Light Spotted Mid Lt Sp 32 Strict Low...

7 CFR 28.525 - Symbols and code numbers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... designations in inches. (a) Symbols and Code numbers used for Color Grades of American Upland Cotton. Color... 41 Low Middling LM 51 Strict Good Ordinary SGO 61 Good Ordinary GO 71 Good Middling Light Spotted GM Lt SP 12 Strict Middling Light Spotted SM Lt Sp 22 Middling Light Spotted Mid Lt Sp 32 Strict Low...

Optimal placement of multiple types of communicating sensors with availability and coverage redundancy constraints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vecherin, Sergey N.; Wilson, D. Keith; Pettit, Chris L.

2010-04-01

Determination of an optimal configuration (numbers, types, and locations) of a sensor network is an important practical problem. In most applications, complex signal propagation effects and inhomogeneous coverage preferences lead to an optimal solution that is highly irregular and nonintuitive. The general optimization problem can be strictly formulated as a binary linear programming problem. Due to the combinatorial nature of this problem, however, its strict solution requires significant computational resources (NP-complete class of complexity) and is unobtainable for large spatial grids of candidate sensor locations. For this reason, a greedy algorithm for approximate solution was recently introduced [S. N. Vecherin, D. K. Wilson, and C. L. Pettit, "Optimal sensor placement with terrain-based constraints and signal propagation effects," Unattended Ground, Sea, and Air Sensor Technologies and Applications XI, SPIE Proc. Vol. 7333, paper 73330S (2009)]. Here further extensions to the developed algorithm are presented to include such practical needs and constraints as sensor availability, coverage by multiple sensors, and wireless communication of the sensor information. Both communication and detection are considered in a probabilistic framework. Communication signal and signature propagation effects are taken into account when calculating probabilities of communication and detection. Comparison of approximate and strict solutions on reduced-size problems suggests that the approximate algorithm yields quick and good solutions, which thus justifies using that algorithm for full-size problems. Examples of three-dimensional outdoor sensor placement are provided using a terrain-based software analysis tool.

CCP4i2: the new graphical user interface to the CCP4 program suite

PubMed Central

Potterton, Liz; Ballard, Charles; Dodson, Eleanor; Evans, Phil R.; Keegan, Ronan; Krissinel, Eugene; Stevenson, Kyle; Lebedev, Andrey; McNicholas, Stuart J.; Noble, Martin; Pannu, Navraj S.; Roth, Christian; Sheldrick, George; Skubak, Pavol; Uski, Ville

2018-01-01

The CCP4 (Collaborative Computational Project, Number 4) software suite for macromolecular structure determination by X-ray crystallography groups brings together many programs and libraries that, by means of well established conventions, interoperate effectively without adhering to strict design guidelines. Because of this inherent flexibility, users are often presented with diverse, even divergent, choices for solving every type of problem. Recently, CCP4 introduced CCP4i2, a modern graphical interface designed to help structural biologists to navigate the process of structure determination, with an emphasis on pipelining and the streamlined presentation of results. In addition, CCP4i2 provides a framework for writing structure-solution scripts that can be built up incrementally to create increasingly automatic procedures. PMID:29533233

Decoding the conformation-linked functional properties of nucleic acids by the use of computational tools.

PubMed

Iacovelli, Federico; Falconi, Mattia

2015-09-01

DNA and RNA are large and flexible polymers selected by nature to transmit information. The most common DNA three-dimensional structure is represented by the double helix, but this biopolymer is extremely flexible and polymorphic, and can easily change its conformation to adapt to different interactions and purposes. DNA can also adopt singular topologies, giving rise, for instance, to supercoils, formed because of the limited free rotation of the DNA domain flanking a replication or transcription complex. Our understanding of the importance of these unusual or transient structures is growing, as recent studies of DNA topology, supercoiling, knotting and linking have shown that the geometric changes can drive, or strongly influence, the interactions between protein and DNA, so altering its own metabolism. On the other hand, the unique self-recognition properties of DNA, determined by the strict Watson-Crick rules of base pairing, make this material ideal for the creation of self-assembling, predesigned nanostructures. The construction of such structures is one of the main focuses of the thriving area of DNA nanotechnology, where several assembly strategies have been employed to build increasingly complex DNA nanostructures. DNA nanodevices can have direct applications in biomedicine, but also in the materials science field, requiring the immersion of DNA in an environment far from the physiological one. Crucial help in the understanding and planning of natural and artificial nanostructures is given by modern computer simulation techniques, which are able to provide a reliable structural and dynamic description of nucleic acids. © 2015 FEBS.

Application of strict criteria in adrenal venous sampling increases the proportion of missed patients with unilateral disease who benefit from surgery for primary aldosteronism.

PubMed

Kline, Gregory; Leung, Alexander; So, Benny; Chin, Alex; Harvey, Adrian; Pasieka, Janice L

2018-06-01

Adrenal vein sampling (AVS) is intended to confirm unilateral forms of primary aldosteronism, which are amenable to surgical cure. Excessively strict AVS criteria to define lateralization may result in many patients incorrectly categorized as bilateral primary aldosteronism and opportunity for surgical cure missed. Retrospective review of an AVS-primary aldosteronism database in which surgical cases are verified by standardized outcomes. Having used 'less strict' AVS criteria for lateralization, we examined the distribution of AVS lateralization indices in our confirmed unilateral primary aldosteronism cases both with and without cosyntropin stimulation. The proportion of proven unilateral cases that would have been missed with stricter AVS interpretation criteria was calculated. Particular focus was given to the proportion of missed cases according to use of international guidelines. False-positive lateralization with 'less strict' interpretation was also calculated. Of 80 surgical primary aldosteronism cases, 10-23% would have been missed with AVS lateralization indices of 3 : 1 to 5 : 1, with or without cosyntropin. If strict selectivity indices (for confirmation of catheterization) were combined with strict lateralization indices, up to 70% of unilateral primary aldosteronism cases could have been missed. Use of Endocrine Society AVS guidelines would have missed 21-43% of proven unilateral cases. 'Less strict' AVS interpretation yielded one case (1.2%) of false lateralization. Excessively strict AVS interpretation criteria will result in a high rate of missed unilateral primary aldosteronism with subsequent loss of opportunity for intervention. Use of more lenient lateralization criteria will improve the detection rate of unilateral primary aldosteronism with very low false-positive rate.

Human development VIII: a theory of "deep" quantum chemistry and cell consciousness: quantum chemistry controls genes and biochemistry to give cells and higher organisms consciousness and complex behavior.

PubMed

Ventegodt, Søren; Hermansen, Tyge Dahl; Flensborg-Madsen, Trine; Nielsen, Maj Lyck; Merrick, Joav

2006-11-14

Deep quantum chemistry is a theory of deeply structured quantum fields carrying the biological information of the cell, making it able to remember, intend, represent the inner and outer world for comparison, understand what it "sees", and make choices on its structure, form, behavior and division. We suggest that deep quantum chemistry gives the cell consciousness and all the qualities and abilities related to consciousness. We use geometric symbolism, which is a pre-mathematical and philosophical approach to problems that cannot yet be handled mathematically. Using Occam's razor we have started with the simplest model that works; we presume this to be a many-dimensional, spiral fractal. We suggest that all the electrons of the large biological molecules' orbitals make one huge "cell-orbital", which is structured according to the spiral fractal nature of quantum fields. Consciousness of single cells, multi cellular structures as e.g. organs, multi-cellular organisms and multi-individual colonies (like ants) and human societies can thus be explained by deep quantum chemistry. When biochemical activity is strictly controlled by the quantum-mechanical super-orbital of the cell, this orbital can deliver energetic quanta as biological information, distributed through many fractal levels of the cell to guide form and behavior of an individual single or a multi-cellular organism. The top level of information is the consciousness of the cell or organism, which controls all the biochemical processes. By this speculative work inspired by Penrose and Hameroff we hope to inspire other researchers to formulate more strict and mathematically correct hypothesis on the complex and coherence nature of matter, life and consciousness.

Human Development VIII: A Theory of “Deep” Quantum Chemistry and Cell Consciousness: Quantum Chemistry Controls Genes and Biochemistry to Give Cells and Higher Organisms Consciousness and Complex Behavior

PubMed Central

Ventegodt, Søren; Hermansen, Tyge Dahl; Flensborg-Madsen, Trine; Nielsen, Maj Lyck; Merrick, Joav

2006-01-01

Deep quantum chemistry is a theory of deeply structured quantum fields carrying the biological information of the cell, making it able to remember, intend, represent the inner and outer world for comparison, understand what it “sees”, and make choices on its structure, form, behavior and division. We suggest that deep quantum chemistry gives the cell consciousness and all the qualities and abilities related to consciousness. We use geometric symbolism, which is a pre-mathematical and philosophical approach to problems that cannot yet be handled mathematically. Using Occams razor we have started with the simplest model that works; we presume this to be a many-dimensional, spiral fractal. We suggest that all the electrons of the large biological molecules orbitals make one huge “cell-orbital”, which is structured according to the spiral fractal nature of quantum fields. Consciousness of single cells, multi cellular structures as e.g. organs, multi-cellular organisms and multi-individual colonies (like ants) and human societies can thus be explained by deep quantum chemistry. When biochemical activity is strictly controlled by the quantum-mechanical super-orbital of the cell, this orbital can deliver energetic quanta as biological information, distributed through many fractal levels of the cell to guide form and behavior of an individual single or a multi-cellular organism. The top level of information is the consciousness of the cell or organism, which controls all the biochemical processes. By this speculative work inspired by Penrose and Hameroff we hope to inspire other researchers to formulate more strict and mathematically correct hypothesis on the complex and coherence nature of matter, life and consciousness. PMID:17115084

Results and analysis of the hot-spot temperature experiment for a cable-in-conduit conductor with thick conduit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sedlak, Kamil; Bruzzone, Pierluigi

2015-12-01

In the design of future DEMO fusion reactor a long time constant (∼23 s) is required for an emergency current dump in the toroidal field (TF) coils, e.g. in case of a quench detection. This requirement is driven mainly by imposing a limit on forces on mechanical structures, namely on the vacuum vessel. As a consequence, the superconducting cable-in-conduit conductors (CICC) of the TF coil have to withstand heat dissipation lasting tens of seconds at the section where the quench started. During that time, the heat will be partially absorbed by the (massive) steel conduit and electrical insulation, thus reducing the hot-spot temperature estimated strictly from the enthalpy of the strand bundle. A dedicated experiment has been set up at CRPP to investigate the radial heat propagation and the hot-spot temperature in a CICC with a 10 mm thick steel conduit and a 2 mm thick glass epoxy outer electrical insulation. The medium size, ∅ = 18 mm, NbTi CICC was powered by the operating current of up to 10 kA. The temperature profile was monitored by 10 temperature sensors. The current dump conditions, namely the decay time constant and the quench detection delay, were varied. The experimental results show that the thick conduit significantly contributes to the overall enthalpy balance, and consequently reduces the amount of copper required for the quench protection in superconducting cables for fusion reactors.

A class of solution-invariant transformations of cost functions for minimum cost flow phase unwrapping.

PubMed

Hubig, Michael; Suchandt, Steffen; Adam, Nico

2004-10-01

Phase unwrapping (PU) represents an important step in synthetic aperture radar interferometry (InSAR) and other interferometric applications. Among the different PU methods, the so called branch-cut approaches play an important role. In 1996 M. Costantini [Proceedings of the Fringe '96 Workshop ERS SAR Interferometry (European Space Agency, Munich, 1996), pp. 261-272] proposed to transform the problem of correctly placing branch cuts into a minimum cost flow (MCF) problem. The crucial point of this new approach is to generate cost functions that represent the a priori knowledge necessary for PU. Since cost functions are derived from measured data, they are random variables. This leads to the question of MCF solution stability: How much can the cost functions be varied without changing the cheapest flow that represents the correct branch cuts? This question is partially answered: The existence of a whole linear subspace in the space of cost functions is shown; this subspace contains all cost differences by which a cost function can be changed without changing the cost difference between any two flows that are discharging any residue configuration. These cost differences are called strictly stable cost differences. For quadrangular nonclosed networks (the most important type of MCF networks for interferometric purposes) a complete classification of strictly stable cost differences is presented. Further, the role of the well-known class of node potentials in the framework of strictly stable cost differences is investigated, and information on the vector-space structure representing the MCF environment is provided.

Keeping Special Forces Special: Regional Proficiency in Special Forces

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-12-01

Dr. David Brand provided the foundation for this thesis. Well before it was newsworthy, DRSE was hard at work seeking to improve the education of...had personally dealt with many of the Northern Alliance commanders.3 Had the timing of 9/11 been different, Schroen could have retired and there...and alliance in a region.”72 Often military personnel view local social structures through strictly a tribal lens. As Varhola and Varhola explain

Low toxic maghemite nanoparticles for theranostic applications.

PubMed

Kuchma, Elena A; Zolotukhin, Peter V; Belanova, Anna A; Soldatov, Mikhail A; Lastovina, Tatiana A; Kubrin, Stanislav P; Nikolsky, Anatoliy V; Mirmikova, Lidia I; Soldatov, Alexander V

2017-01-01

Iron oxide nanoparticles have numerous and versatile biological properties, ranging from direct and immediate biochemical effects to prolonged influences on tissues. Most applications have strict requirements with respect to the chemical and physical properties of such agents. Therefore, developing rational design methods of synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles remains of vital importance in nanobiomedicine. Low toxic superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) for theranostic applications in oncology having spherical shape and maghemite structure were produced using the fast microwave synthesis technique and were fully characterized by several complementary methods (transmission electron microscopy [TEM], X-ray diffraction [XRD], dynamic light scattering [DLS], X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy [XPS], X-ray absorption near edge structure [XANES], Mossbauer spectroscopy, and HeLa cells toxicity testing). TEM showed that the majority of the obtained nanoparticles were almost spherical and did not exceed 20 nm in diameter. The averaged DLS hydrodynamic size was found to be ~33 nm, while that of nanocrystallites estimated by XRD waŝ16 nm. Both XRD and XPS studies evidenced the maghemite (γ-Fe 2 O 3 ) atomic and electronic structure of the synthesized nanoparticles. The XANES data analysis demonstrated the structure of the nanoparticles being similar to that of macroscopic maghemite. The Mossbauer spectroscopy revealed the γ-Fe 2 O 3 phase of the nanoparticles and vibration magnetometry study showed that reactive oxygen species in HeLa cells are generated both in the cytoplasm and the nucleus. Quasispherical Fe 3+ SPIONs having the maghemite structure with the average size of 16 nm obtained by using the fast microwave synthesis technique are expected to be of great value for theranostic applications in oncology and multimodal anticancer therapy.

Structure of RdxA: an oxygen insensitive nitroreductase essential for metronidazole activation in Helicobacter pylori

PubMed Central

Martínez-Júlvez, Marta; Rojas, Adriana L.; Olekhnovich, Igor; Angarica, Vladimir Espinosa; Hoffman, Paul S.; Sancho, Javier

2012-01-01

The RdxA oxygen insensitive nitroreductase of the human gastric pathogen Helicobacter pylori is responsible for the susceptibility of this organism to the redox active prodrug metronidazole (MTZ). Loss-of-function mutations in rdxA are primarily responsible for resistance to this therapeutic. RdxA exhibits potent NADPH oxidase activity under aerobic conditions and metronidazole reductase activity under strictly anaerobic conditions. Here we report the crystal structure of RdxA, which is a homodimer exhibiting domain swapping and containing two molecules of FMN bound at the dimer interface. We have found a gap between the side chain of Tyr47 and the isoalloxazine ring of FMN that seems appropriate for substrate binding. The structure does not include residues 97–128, which corresponds to a locally unstable part of the NTR from E. coli, and might be involved in cofactor binding. Comparison of H pylori RdxA to other oxidoreductases of known structure suggests RdxA may belong to a new subgroup of oxidoreductases in which a cysteine sidechain close to the FMN cofactor could be involved in the reductive activity. In this respect, mutation of C159 to A or S (C159A/S) has resulted in loss of MTZ reductase activity, but not NADPH oxidase activity. The RdxA structure allows interpretation of the many loss-of-function mutations previously described, including those affecting C159, a residue whose interaction with FMN is required for nitroreduction of MTZ. Our studies provide unique insights into the redox behavior of the flavin in this key enzyme for metronidazole activation, and with potential use in gene therapy. PMID:23039228

Low toxic maghemite nanoparticles for theranostic applications

PubMed Central

Zolotukhin, Peter V; Belanova, Anna A; Soldatov, Mikhail A; Lastovina, Tatiana A; Kubrin, Stanislav P; Nikolsky, Anatoliy V; Mirmikova, Lidia I

2017-01-01

Background Iron oxide nanoparticles have numerous and versatile biological properties, ranging from direct and immediate biochemical effects to prolonged influences on tissues. Most applications have strict requirements with respect to the chemical and physical properties of such agents. Therefore, developing rational design methods of synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles remains of vital importance in nanobiomedicine. Methods Low toxic superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) for theranostic applications in oncology having spherical shape and maghemite structure were produced using the fast microwave synthesis technique and were fully characterized by several complementary methods (transmission electron microscopy [TEM], X-ray diffraction [XRD], dynamic light scattering [DLS], X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy [XPS], X-ray absorption near edge structure [XANES], Mossbauer spectroscopy, and HeLa cells toxicity testing). Results TEM showed that the majority of the obtained nanoparticles were almost spherical and did not exceed 20 nm in diameter. The averaged DLS hydrodynamic size was found to be ~33 nm, while that of nanocrystallites estimated by XRD waŝ16 nm. Both XRD and XPS studies evidenced the maghemite (γ-Fe2O3) atomic and electronic structure of the synthesized nanoparticles. The XANES data analysis demonstrated the structure of the nanoparticles being similar to that of macroscopic maghemite. The Mossbauer spectroscopy revealed the γ-Fe2O3 phase of the nanoparticles and vibration magnetometry study showed that reactive oxygen species in HeLa cells are generated both in the cytoplasm and the nucleus. Conclusion Quasispherical Fe3+ SPIONs having the maghemite structure with the average size of 16 nm obtained by using the fast microwave synthesis technique are expected to be of great value for theranostic applications in oncology and multimodal anticancer therapy. PMID:28919740

Structure-function correlations of pulmonary surfactant protein SP-B and the saposin-like family of proteins.

PubMed

Olmeda, Bárbara; García-Álvarez, Begoña; Pérez-Gil, Jesús

2013-03-01

Pulmonary surfactant is a lipid-protein complex secreted by the respiratory epithelium of mammalian lungs, which plays an essential role in stabilising the alveolar surface and so reducing the work of breathing. The surfactant protein SP-B is part of this complex, and is strictly required for the assembly of pulmonary surfactant and its extracellular development to form stable surface-active films at the air-liquid alveolar interface, making the lack of SP-B incompatible with life. In spite of its physiological importance, a model for the structure and the mechanism of action of SP-B is still needed. The sequence of SP-B is homologous to that of the saposin-like family of proteins, which are membrane-interacting polypeptides with apparently diverging activities, from the co-lipase action of saposins to facilitate the degradation of sphingolipids in the lysosomes to the cytolytic actions of some antibiotic proteins, such as NK-lysin and granulysin or the amoebapore of Entamoeba histolytica. Numerous studies on the interactions of these proteins with membranes have still not explained how a similar sequence and a potentially related fold can sustain such apparently different activities. In the present review, we have summarised the most relevant features of the structure, lipid-protein and protein-protein interactions of SP-B and the saposin-like family of proteins, as a basis to propose an integrated model and a common mechanistic framework of the apparent functional versatility of the saposin fold.

Evaluation of cable tension sensors of FAST reflector from the perspective of EMI

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Ming; Wang, Qiming; Egan, Dennis; Wu, Mingchang; Sun, Xiao

2016-06-01

The active reflector of FAST (five-hundred-meter aperture spherical radio telescope) is supported by a ring beam and a cable-net structure, in which nodes are actively controlled to form series of real-time paraboloids. To ensure the security and stability of the supporting structure, tension must be monitored for some typical cables. Considering the stringent requirements in accuracy and long-term stability, magnetic flux sensor, vibrating wire strain gauge and fiber bragg grating strain gauge are screened for the cable tension monitoring of the supporting cable-net. Specifically, receivers of radio telescopes have strict restriction on electro magnetic interference (EMI) or radio frequency interference (RFI). These three types of sensors are evaluated from the view of EMI/RFI. Firstly, these fundamentals are theoretically analyzed. Secondly, typical sensor signals are collected in the time and analyzed in the frequency domain, which shows the characteristic in the frequency domain. Finally, typical sensors are tested in an anechoic chamber to get the EMI levels. Theoretical analysis shows that Fiber Bragg Grating strain gauge itself will not lead to EMI/RFI. According to GJB151A, frequency domain analysis and test results show that for the vibrating wire strain gauge and magnetic flux sensor themselves, testable EMI/RFI levels are typically below the background noise of the anechoic chamber. FAST finally choses these three sensors as the monitoring sensors of its cable tension. The proposed study is also a reference to the monitoring equipment selection of other radio telescopes and large structures.

Stochastic multifractal forecasts: from theory to applications in radar meteorology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

da Silva Rocha Paz, Igor; Tchiguirinskaia, Ioulia; Schertzer, Daniel

2017-04-01

Radar meteorology has been very inspiring for the development of multifractals. It has enabled to work on a 3D+1 field with many challenging applications, including predictability and stochastic forecasts, especially nowcasts that are particularly demanding in computation speed. Multifractals are indeed parsimonious stochastic models that require only a few physically meaningful parameters, e.g. Universal Multifractal (UM) parameters, because they are based on non-trivial symmetries of nonlinear equations. We first recall the physical principles of multifractal predictability and predictions, which are so closely related that the latter correspond to the most optimal predictions in the multifractal framework. Indeed, these predictions are based on the fundamental duality of a relatively slow decay of large scale structures and an injection of new born small scale structures. Overall, this triggers a mulfitractal inverse cascade of unpredictability. With the help of high resolution rainfall radar data (≈ 100 m), we detail and illustrate the corresponding stochastic algorithm in the framework of (causal) UM Fractionally Integrated Flux models (UM-FIF), where the rainfall field is obtained with the help of a fractional integration of a conservative multifractal flux, whose average is strictly scale invariant (like the energy flux in a dynamic cascade). Whereas, the introduction of small structures is rather straightforward, the deconvolution of the past of the field is more subtle, but nevertheless achievable, to obtain the past of the flux. Then, one needs to only fractionally integrate a multiplicative combination of past and future fluxes to obtain a nowcast realisation.

Rate variation and estimation of divergence times using strict and relaxed clocks.

PubMed

Brown, Richard P; Yang, Ziheng

2011-09-26

Understanding causes of biological diversity may be greatly enhanced by knowledge of divergence times. Strict and relaxed clock models are used in Bayesian estimation of divergence times. We examined whether: i) strict clock models are generally more appropriate in shallow phylogenies where rate variation is expected to be low, ii) the likelihood ratio test of the clock (LRT) reliably informs which model is appropriate for dating divergence times. Strict and relaxed models were used to analyse sequences simulated under different levels of rate variation. Published shallow phylogenies (Black bass, Primate-sucking lice, Podarcis lizards, Gallotiinae lizards, and Caprinae mammals) were also analysed to determine natural levels of rate variation relative to the performance of the different models. Strict clock analyses performed well on data simulated under the independent rates model when the standard deviation of log rate on branches, σ, was low (≤ 0.1), but were inappropriate when σ>0.1 (95% of rates fall within 0.0082-0.0121 subs/site/Ma when σ = 0.1, for a mean rate of 0.01). The independent rates relaxed clock model performed well at all levels of rate variation, although posterior intervals on times were significantly wider than for the strict clock. The strict clock is therefore superior when rate variation is low. The performance of a correlated rates relaxed clock model was similar to the strict clock. Increased numbers of independent loci led to slightly narrower posteriors under the relaxed clock while older root ages provided proportionately narrower posteriors. The LRT had low power for σ = 0.01-0.1, but high power for σ = 0.5-2.0. Posterior means of σ2 were useful for assessing rate variation in published datasets. Estimates of natural levels of rate variation ranged from 0.05-3.38 for different partitions. Differences in divergence times between relaxed and strict clock analyses were greater in two datasets with higher σ2 for one or more partitions, supporting the simulation results. The strict clock can be superior for trees with shallow roots because of low levels of rate variation between branches. The LRT allows robust assessment of suitability of the clock model as does examination of posteriors on σ2.

An approach to the implementation of ISO 14000 at a shipping company

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Panaitescu, F. V.; Panaitescu, M.

2015-11-01

We present here a successful implementation of the Environmental Management System (EMS) in a shipping company. The EMS of the each company must be revised and expanded and new analytical requirements included in it. This new EMS concept is available to everyone on board and must be studied by every seafarer. All environmental requirements to be strictly followed all over the world. The main points of new EMS are: new open reporting system, environmental tag system (ETS) which introduce non re-usable numbered seals, pollution prevention equipment (OWS, OCM, Incinerator and Sewage Treatment Plant), the environmental defect reports system - extraordinary E/R operations and leakages log book.

Control system and method for a power delivery system having a continuously variable ratio transmission

DOEpatents

Frank, Andrew A.

1984-01-01

A control system and method for a power delivery system, such as in an automotive vehicle, having an engine coupled to a continuously variable ratio transmission (CVT). Totally independent control of engine and transmission enable the engine to precisely follow a desired operating characteristic, such as the ideal operating line for minimum fuel consumption. CVT ratio is controlled as a function of commanded power or torque and measured load, while engine fuel requirements (e.g., throttle position) are strictly a function of measured engine speed. Fuel requirements are therefore precisely adjusted in accordance with the ideal characteristic for any load placed on the engine.

Performance characterization of UV science cameras developed for the Chromospheric Lyman-Alpha Spectro-Polarimeter (CLASP)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Champey, P.; Kobayashi, K.; Winebarger, A.; Cirtain, J.; Hyde, D.; Robertson, B.; Beabout, D.; Beabout, B.; Stewart, M.

2014-07-01

The NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) has developed a science camera suitable for sub-orbital missions for observations in the UV, EUV and soft X-ray. Six cameras will be built and tested for flight with the Chromospheric Lyman-Alpha Spectro-Polarimeter (CLASP), a joint National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ) and MSFC sounding rocket mission. The goal of the CLASP mission is to observe the scattering polarization in Lyman-α and to detect the Hanle effect in the line core. Due to the nature of Lyman-α polarizationin the chromosphere, strict measurement sensitivity requirements are imposed on the CLASP polarimeter and spectrograph systems; science requirements for polarization measurements of Q/I and U/I are 0.1% in the line core. CLASP is a dual-beam spectro-polarimeter, which uses a continuously rotating waveplate as a polarization modulator, while the waveplate motor driver outputs trigger pulses to synchronize the exposures. The CCDs are operated in frame-transfer mode; the trigger pulse initiates the frame transfer, effectively ending the ongoing exposure and starting the next. The strict requirement of 0.1% polarization accuracy is met by using frame-transfer cameras to maximize the duty cycle in order to minimize photon noise. The CLASP cameras were designed to operate with ≤ 10 e-/pixel/second dark current, ≤ 25 e- read noise, a gain of 2.0 +- 0.5 and ≤ 1.0% residual non-linearity. We present the results of the performance characterization study performed on the CLASP prototype camera; dark current, read noise, camera gain and residual non-linearity.

Direct numerical simulation of axisymmetric turbulence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qu, Bo; Bos, Wouter J. T.; Naso, Aurore

2017-09-01

The dynamics of decaying, strictly axisymmetric, incompressible turbulence is investigated using direct numerical simulations. It is found that the angular momentum is a robust invariant of the system. It is further shown that long-lived coherent structures are generated by the flow. These structures can be associated with stationary solutions of the Euler equations. The structures obey relations in agreement with predictions from selective decay principles, compatible with the decay laws of the system. Two different types of decay scenarios are highlighted. The first case results in a quasi-two-dimensional flow with a dynamical behavior in the poloidal plane similar to freely decaying two-dimensional turbulence. In a second regime, the long-time dynamics is dominated by a single three-dimensional mode.

Structures and properties of naturally occurring polyether antibiotics.

PubMed

Rutkowski, Jacek; Brzezinski, Bogumil

2013-01-01

Polyether ionophores represent a large group of natural, biologically active substances produced by Streptomyces spp. They are lipid soluble and able to transport metal cations across cell membranes. Several of polyether ionophores are widely used as growth promoters in veterinary. Polyether antibiotics show a broad spectrum of bioactivity ranging from antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, antiviral, and tumour cell cytotoxicity. Recently, it has been shown that some of these compounds are able to selectively kill cancer stem cells and multidrug-resistant cancer cells. Thus, they are recognized as new potential anticancer drugs. The biological activity of polyether ionophores is strictly connected with their molecular structure; therefore, the purpose of this paper is to present an overview of their formula, molecular structure, and properties.

Structures and Properties of Naturally Occurring Polyether Antibiotics

PubMed Central

Rutkowski, Jacek; Brzezinski, Bogumil

2013-01-01

Polyether ionophores represent a large group of natural, biologically active substances produced by Streptomyces spp. They are lipid soluble and able to transport metal cations across cell membranes. Several of polyether ionophores are widely used as growth promoters in veterinary. Polyether antibiotics show a broad spectrum of bioactivity ranging from antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, antiviral, and tumour cell cytotoxicity. Recently, it has been shown that some of these compounds are able to selectively kill cancer stem cells and multidrug-resistant cancer cells. Thus, they are recognized as new potential anticancer drugs. The biological activity of polyether ionophores is strictly connected with their molecular structure; therefore, the purpose of this paper is to present an overview of their formula, molecular structure, and properties. PMID:23586016

Plasma deposition and surface modification techniques for wear resistance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Spalvins, T.

1982-01-01

The ion-assisted or plasma coating technology is discussed as it applies to the deposition of hard, wear resistant refractory compound films. Of the many sputtering and ion plating modes and configurations the reactive magnetron sputtering and the reactive triode ion plating techniques are the preferred ones to deposit wear resistant coatings for tribological applications. Both of these techniques incorporate additional means to enhance the ionization efficiency and chemical reaction to precision tailor desirable tribological characteristics. Interrelationships between film formation, structure, and ribological properties are strictly controlled by the deposition parameters and the substrate condition. The enhanced ionization contributes to the excellent adherence and coherence, reduced internal stresses and improved structural growth to form dense, cohesive, equiaxed grain structure for improved wear resistance and control.

High Available COTS Based Computer for Space

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hartmann, J.; Magistrati, Giorgio

2015-09-01

The availability and reliability factors of a system are central requirements of a target application. From a simple fuel injection system used in cars up to a flight control system of an autonomous navigating spacecraft, each application defines its specific availability factor under the target application boundary conditions. Increasing quality requirements on data processing systems used in space flight applications calling for new architectures to fulfill the availability, reliability as well as the increase of the required data processing power. Contrary to the increased quality request simplification and use of COTS components to decrease costs while keeping the interface compatibility to currently used system standards are clear customer needs. Data processing system design is mostly dominated by strict fulfillment of the customer requirements and reuse of available computer systems were not always possible caused by obsolescence of EEE-Parts, insufficient IO capabilities or the fact that available data processing systems did not provide the required scalability and performance.

Self-force as a probe of global structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Davidson, Karl; Poisson, Eric

2018-05-01

We calculate the self-force on an electric charge and electric dipole held at rest in a closed universe that results from joining two copies of Minkowski spacetime at a common boundary. Spacetime is strictly flat on each side of the boundary, but there is curvature at the surface layer required to join the two Minkowski spacetimes. We find that the self-force on the charge is always directed away from the surface layer. This is analogous to the case of an electric charge held at rest inside a spherical shell of matter, for which the self-force is also directed away from the shell. For the dipole, the direction of the self-force is a function of the dipole's position and orientation. Both self-forces become infinite when the charge or dipole is made to approach the surface layer. This study reveals that a self-force can arise even when the Riemann tensor vanishes at the position of the charge or dipole; in such cases the self-force is a manifestation of the global curvature of spacetime.

[Whistleblowing: a difficult concept for nurses].

PubMed

Habermann, Monika; Cramer, Henning; Pielage, Friedhelm; Stagge, Maya

2010-10-01

Preventig errors and implementing risk management systems in health and nursing care requires knowledge about nurses' perceptions of errors, such as their handling and their reporting of errors. Whistleblowing is a way of reporting serious deficits by leaving predetermined pathways and addressing persons, institutions or media outside the organisation. In eighteen semi-structured interviews nurses were asked if they could imagine acting as a whistleblower, or if they even had ever blown the whistle before. The scope of their appraisal ranged from strictly disapproving such behaviour (what was done by most of the interviewees) to approving only hesitantly because of personal risks. Central themes were allegiance to the organisation, to the team and to colleagues, responsibility for the patients, and the consideration of personal risks. This corresponds to the results of other studies on whistleblowing, as described in the discussion. Nurses have to be encouraged to accept professional responsibilities as well as organisational ways of error reporting have to be found and to be discussed, e. g. in terms of best practice examples. Whistleblowing should be regarded as an act by which patient advocacy is expressed.

Longitudinal gas-density profilometry for plasma-wakefield acceleration targets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schaper, Lucas; Goldberg, Lars; Kleinwächter, Tobias; Schwinkendorf, Jan-Patrick; Osterhoff, Jens

2014-03-01

Precise tailoring of plasma-density profiles has been identified as one of the critical points in achieving stable and reproducible conditions in plasma wakefield accelerators. Here, the strict requirements of next generation plasma-wakefield concepts, such as hybrid-accelerators, with densities around 1017 cm-3 pose challenges to target fabrication as well as to their reliable diagnosis. To mitigate these issues we combine target simulation with fabrication and characterization. The resulting density profiles in capillaries with gas jet and multiple in- and outlets are simulated with the fluid code OpenFOAM. Satisfactory simulation results then are followed by fabrication of the desired target shapes with structures down to the 10 μm level. The detection of Raman scattered photons using lenses with large collection solid angle allows to measure the corresponding longitudinal density profiles at different number densities and allows a detection sensitivity down to the low 1017 cm-3 density range at high spatial resolution. This offers the possibility to gain insight into steep density gradients as for example in gas jets and at the plasma-to-vacuum transition.

Molecular architecture of the human GINS complex

PubMed Central

Boskovic, Jasminka; Coloma, Javier; Aparicio, Tomás; Zhou, Min; Robinson, Carol V; Méndez, Juan; Montoya, Guillermo

2007-01-01

Chromosomal DNA replication is strictly regulated through a sequence of steps that involve many macromolecular protein complexes. One of these is the GINS complex, which is required for initiation and elongation phases in eukaryotic DNA replication. The GINS complex consists of four paralogous subunits. At the G1/S transition, GINS is recruited to the origins of replication where it assembles with cell-division cycle protein (Cdc)45 and the minichromosome maintenance mutant (MCM)2–7 to form the Cdc45/Mcm2–7/GINS (CMG) complex, the presumed replicative helicase. We isolated the human GINS complex and have shown that it can bind to DNA. By using single-particle electron microscopy and three-dimensional reconstruction, we obtained a medium-resolution volume of the human GINS complex, which shows a horseshoe shape. Analysis of the protein interactions using mass spectrometry and monoclonal antibody mapping shows the subunit organization within the GINS complex. The structure and DNA-binding data suggest how GINS could interact with DNA and also its possible role in the CMG helicase complex. PMID:17557111

Polysaccharide Utilization Loci: Fueling Microbial Communities

PubMed Central

Grondin, Julie M.; Tamura, Kazune; Déjean, Guillaume

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT The complex carbohydrates of terrestrial and marine biomass represent a rich nutrient source for free-living and mutualistic microbes alike. The enzymatic saccharification of these diverse substrates is of critical importance for fueling a variety of complex microbial communities, including marine, soil, ruminant, and monogastric microbiota. Consequently, highly specific carbohydrate-active enzymes, recognition proteins, and transporters are enriched in the genomes of certain species and are of critical importance in competitive environments. In Bacteroidetes bacteria, these systems are organized as polysaccharide utilization loci (PULs), which are strictly regulated, colocalized gene clusters that encode enzyme and protein ensembles required for the saccharification of complex carbohydrates. This review provides historical perspectives and summarizes key findings in the study of these systems, highlighting a critical shift from sequence-based PUL discovery to systems-based analyses combining reverse genetics, biochemistry, enzymology, and structural biology to precisely illuminate the molecular mechanisms underpinning PUL function. The ecological implications of dynamic PUL deployment by key species in the human gastrointestinal tract are explored, as well as the wider distribution of these systems in other gut, terrestrial, and marine environments. PMID:28138099

[System design of small intellectualized ultrasound hyperthermia instrument in the LabVIEW environment].

PubMed

Jiang, Feng; Bai, Jingfeng; Chen, Yazhu

2005-08-01

Small-scale intellectualized medical instrument has attracted great attention in the field of biomedical engineering, and LabVIEW (Laboratory Virtual Instrument Engineering Workbench) provides a convenient environment for this application due to its inherent advantages. The principle and system structure of the hyperthermia instrument are presented. Type T thermocouples are employed as thermotransducers, whose amplifier consists of two stages, providing built-in ice point compensation and thus improving work stability over temperature. Control signals produced by specially designed circuit drive the programmable counter/timer 8254 chip to generate PWM (Pulse width modulation) wave, which is used as ultrasound radiation energy control signal. Subroutine design topics such as inner-tissue real time feedback temperature control algorithm, water temperature control in the ultrasound applicator are also described. In the cancer tissue temperature control subroutine, the authors exert new improvments to PID (Proportional Integral Differential) algorithm according to the specific demands of the system and achieve strict temperature control to the target tissue region. The system design and PID algorithm improvement have experimentally proved to be reliable and excellent, meeting the requirements of the hyperthermia system.

Comparison of variational real-space representations of the kinetic energy operator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Skylaris, Chris-Kriton; Diéguez, Oswaldo; Haynes, Peter D.; Payne, Mike C.

2002-08-01

We present a comparison of real-space methods based on regular grids for electronic structure calculations that are designed to have basis set variational properties, using as a reference the conventional method of finite differences (a real-space method that is not variational) and the reciprocal-space plane-wave method which is fully variational. We find that a definition of the finite-difference method [P. Maragakis, J. Soler, and E. Kaxiras, Phys. Rev. B 64, 193101 (2001)] satisfies one of the two properties of variational behavior at the cost of larger errors than the conventional finite-difference method. On the other hand, a technique which represents functions in a number of plane waves which is independent of system size closely follows the plane-wave method and therefore also the criteria for variational behavior. Its application is only limited by the requirement of having functions strictly localized in regions of real space, but this is a characteristic of an increasing number of modern real-space methods, as they are designed to have a computational cost that scales linearly with system size.

An Edge-Based Method for the Incompressible Navier-Stokes Equations on Polygonal Meshes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wright, Jeffrey A.; Smith, Richard W.

2001-05-01

A pressure-based method is presented for discretizing the unsteady incompressible Navier-Stokes equations using hybrid unstructured meshes. The edge-based data structure and assembly procedure adopted lead naturally to a strictly conservative discretization, which is valid for meshes composed of n-sided polygons. Particular attention is given to the construction of a pressure-velocity coupling procedure which is supported by edge data, resulting in a relatively simple numerical method that is consistent with the boundary and initial conditions required by the incompressible Navier-Stokes equations. Edge formulas are presented for assembling the momentum equations, which are based on an upwind-biased linear reconstruction of the velocity field. Similar formulas are presented for assembling the pressure equation. The method is demonstrated to be second-order accurate in space and time for two Navier-Stokes problems admitting an exact solution. Results for several other well-known problems are also presented, including lid-driven cavity flow, impulsively started cylinder flow, and unsteady vortex shedding from a circular cylinder. Although the method is by construction minimalist, it is shown to be accurate and robust for the problems considered.

RPLP1 and RPLP2 Are Essential Flavivirus Host Factors That Promote Early Viral Protein Accumulation

PubMed Central

Campos, Rafael K.; Wong, Benjamin; Lu, Yi-Fan; Shi, Pei-Yong; Pompon, Julien

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT The Flavivirus genus contains several arthropod-borne viruses that pose global health threats, including dengue viruses (DENV), yellow fever virus (YFV), and Zika virus (ZIKV). In order to understand how these viruses replicate in human cells, we previously conducted genome-scale RNA interference screens to identify candidate host factors. In these screens, we identified ribosomal proteins RPLP1 and RPLP2 (RPLP1/2) to be among the most crucial putative host factors required for DENV and YFV infection. RPLP1/2 are phosphoproteins that bind the ribosome through interaction with another ribosomal protein, RPLP0, to form a structure termed the ribosomal stalk. RPLP1/2 were validated as essential host factors for DENV, YFV, and ZIKV infection in two human cell lines: A549 lung adenocarcinoma and HuH-7 hepatoma cells, and for productive DENV infection of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Depletion of RPLP1/2 caused moderate cell-line-specific effects on global protein synthesis, as determined by metabolic labeling. In A549 cells, global translation was increased, while in HuH-7 cells it was reduced, albeit both of these effects were modest. In contrast, RPLP1/2 knockdown strongly reduced early DENV protein accumulation, suggesting a requirement for RPLP1/2 in viral translation. Furthermore, knockdown of RPLP1/2 reduced levels of DENV structural proteins expressed from an exogenous transgene. We postulate that these ribosomal proteins are required for efficient translation elongation through the viral open reading frame. In summary, this work identifies RPLP1/2 as critical flaviviral host factors required for translation. IMPORTANCE Flaviviruses cause important diseases in humans. Examples of mosquito-transmitted flaviviruses include dengue, yellow fever and Zika viruses. Viruses require a plethora of cellular factors to infect cells, and the ribosome plays an essential role in all viral infections. The ribosome is a complex macromolecular machine composed of RNA and proteins and it is responsible for protein synthesis. We identified two specific ribosomal proteins that are strictly required for flavivirus infection of human cells and mosquitoes: RPLP1 and RPLP2 (RPLP1/2). These proteins are part of a structure known as the ribosomal stalk and help orchestrate the elongation phase of translation. We show that flaviviruses are particularly dependent on the function of RPLP1/2. Our findings suggest that ribosome composition is an important factor for virus translation and may represent a regulatory layer for translation of specific cellular mRNAs. PMID:27974556

41 CFR 102-74.351 - If a state or local government has a smoke-free ordinance that is more strict than the smoking...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... government has a smoke-free ordinance that is more strict than the smoking policy for Federal facilities... REGULATION REAL PROPERTY 74-FACILITY MANAGEMENT Facility Management Smoking § 102-74.351 If a state or local government has a smoke-free ordinance that is more strict than the smoking policy for Federal facilities...

41 CFR 102-74.351 - If a state or local government has a smoke-free ordinance that is more strict than the smoking...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... government has a smoke-free ordinance that is more strict than the smoking policy for Federal facilities... REGULATION REAL PROPERTY 74-FACILITY MANAGEMENT Facility Management Smoking § 102-74.351 If a state or local government has a smoke-free ordinance that is more strict than the smoking policy for Federal facilities...

41 CFR 102-74.351 - If a state or local government has a smoke-free ordinance that is more strict than the smoking...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... government has a smoke-free ordinance that is more strict than the smoking policy for Federal facilities... REGULATION REAL PROPERTY 74-FACILITY MANAGEMENT Facility Management Smoking § 102-74.351 If a state or local government has a smoke-free ordinance that is more strict than the smoking policy for Federal facilities...

41 CFR 102-74.351 - If a state or local government has a smoke-free ordinance that is more strict than the smoking...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... government has a smoke-free ordinance that is more strict than the smoking policy for Federal facilities... REGULATION REAL PROPERTY 74-FACILITY MANAGEMENT Facility Management Smoking § 102-74.351 If a state or local government has a smoke-free ordinance that is more strict than the smoking policy for Federal facilities...

41 CFR 102-74.351 - If a state or local government has a smoke-free ordinance that is more strict than the smoking...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... government has a smoke-free ordinance that is more strict than the smoking policy for Federal facilities... REGULATION REAL PROPERTY 74-FACILITY MANAGEMENT Facility Management Smoking § 102-74.351 If a state or local government has a smoke-free ordinance that is more strict than the smoking policy for Federal facilities...

[Body donation versus organ donation].

PubMed

Reis, Ria

2010-01-01

There appears to be a discrepancy between the oversupply of donated bodies 'for science' in anatomical institutions in the Netherlands and the shortage of donated organs. However, organ donation is not as straightforward as it seems, mainly because of its strict conditions, e.g. with respect to age and the required hospital setting of the dying. Since Dutch body donors are mainly elderly men, their attitudes to their body, death and science should be explored from a generational perspective.

Program Solicitation for FY-1987 Defense Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR).

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-10-01

Which presents ballistic problems. A preferred design from a strictly performance point-of-view is the non -cased charge. However, this is not practical...the protection and onsuability of the combustible and the performance of the non -cased charge. It is required to develop a design which can accomplish...send data. Data bandwidths of 200 MHz are desirable. A97-91. TITLE: l11h Speed Non - olarizino Light Attenuator for Imaes DESCRIPTION. Design and

The Current Commander: Understanding and Effecting Change in Civilian Organizations

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-03-30

communication, treatment according to contract, and no special attention. Out- group members do only what is required, operating within strictly...complete what he calls the Taking-Hold stage. This is a period in which the new leader gains “orientational and evaluative learning and begins to take...focus on those priorities • Being Captured by the Wrong People – new leaders must exercise great care in deciding who to listen to and to what degree

Quantum mechanics from an equivalence principle

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Faraggi, A.E.; Matone, M.

1997-05-15

The authors show that requiring diffeomorphic equivalence for one-dimensional stationary states implies that the reduced action S{sub 0} satisfies the quantum Hamilton-Jacobi equation with the Planck constant playing the role of a covariantizing parameter. The construction shows the existence of a fundamental initial condition which is strictly related to the Moebius symmetry of the Legendre transform and to its involutive character. The universal nature of the initial condition implies the Schroedinger equation in any dimension.

A Performance Based Management System for the United States Navy.

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-06-01

cf compensation can be difficult. :onventional employers (such as manufacturers and serv ice-related producers) usually have the luxury of being able...manned (as well as robotic ) systems that require increased operator skill. Manning this force with strictly the correct numbers of people is not...your Pay and Benef its," ings§ 29 92d pps* 4-5, Spring 1983 16. Center for Naval Analyses Professional Paper 386 Cons truction of "Trainina. Cost Per

Fine structure of the epidermal Leydig cells in the axolotl Ambystoma mexicanum in relation to their function.

PubMed Central

Jarial, M S

1989-01-01

The fine structure of the Leydig cells in the epidermis of the strictly aquatic adult axolotl Ambystoma mexicanum resembles that of similar cells in larval salamanders. The major finding of this study is that the mucous secretion of the Leydig cells is released into the intercellular spaces from which it is discharged through pores onto the surface of the epidermis where it forms a mucous layer to protect the skin. Images Figs. 1-2 Fig. 3 Fig. 4 Fig. 5 Fig. 6 Fig. 7 Fig. 8 Fig. 9 Fig. 10 Figs. 11-13 PMID:2630544

Chemical warfare agents.

PubMed

Kuca, Kamil; Pohanka, Miroslav

2010-01-01

Chemical warfare agents are compounds of different chemical structures. Simple molecules such as chlorine as well as complex structures such as ricin belong to this group. Nerve agents, vesicants, incapacitating agents, blood agents, lung-damaging agents, riot-control agents and several toxins are among chemical warfare agents. Although the use of these compounds is strictly prohibited, the possible misuse by terrorist groups is a reality nowadays. Owing to this fact, knowledge of the basic properties of these substances is of a high importance. This chapter briefly introduces the separate groups of chemical warfare agents together with their members and the potential therapy that should be applied in case someone is intoxicated by these agents.

On the helical arrangements of protein molecules.

PubMed

Dauter, Zbigniew; Jaskolski, Mariusz

2018-03-01

Helical structures are prevalent in biology. In the PDB, there are many examples where protein molecules are helically arranged, not only according to strict crystallographic screw axes but also according to approximate noncrystallographic screws. The preponderance of such screws is rather striking as helical arrangements in crystals must preserve an integer number of subunits per turn, while intuition and simple packing arguments would seem to favor fractional helices. The article provides insights into such questions, based on stereochemistry, trigonometry, and topology, and illustrates the findings with concrete PDB structures. Updated statistics of Sohncke space groups in the PDB are also presented. © 2017 The Protein Society.

A Highly Conserved Leucine in Mammarenavirus Matrix Z Protein Is Required for Z Interaction with the Virus L Polymerase and Z Stability in Cells Harboring an Active Viral Ribonucleoprotein.

PubMed

Iwasaki, Masaharu; de la Torre, Juan C

2018-06-01

Mammarenaviruses cause chronic infections in their natural rodent hosts. Infected rodents shed infectious virus into excreta. Humans are infected through mucosal exposure to aerosols or direct contact of abraded skin with fomites, resulting in a wide range of manifestations from asymptomatic or mild febrile illness to severe life-threatening hemorrhagic fever. The mammarenavirus matrix Z protein has been shown to be a main driving force of virus budding and to act as a negative regulator of viral RNA synthesis. To gain a better understanding of how the Z protein exerts its several different functions, we investigated the interaction between Z and viral polymerase L protein using the prototypic mammarenavirus, lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV). We found that in the presence of an active viral ribonucleoprotein (vRNP), the Z protein translocated from nonionic detergent-resistant, membrane-rich structures to a subcellular compartment with a different membrane composition susceptible to disruption by nonionic detergents. Alanine (A) substitution of a highly conserved leucine (L) at position 72 in LCMV Z protein abrogated Z-L interaction. The L72A mutation did not affect the stability or budding activity of Z when expressed alone, but in the presence of an active vRNP, mutation L72A promoted rapid degradation of Z via a proteasome- and lysosome-independent pathway. Accordingly, L72A mutation in the Z protein resulted in nonviable LCMV. Our findings have uncovered novel aspects of the dynamics of the Z protein for which a highly conserved L residue was strictly required. IMPORTANCE Several mammarenaviruses, chiefly Lassa virus (LASV), cause hemorrhagic fever disease in humans and pose important public health concerns in their regions of endemicity. Moreover, mounting evidence indicates that the worldwide-distributed, prototypic mammarenavirus, lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), is a neglected human pathogen of clinical significance. The mammarenavirus matrix Z protein plays critical roles in different steps of the viral life cycle by interacting with viral and host cellular components. Here we report that alanine substitution of a highly conserved leucine residue, located at position 72 in LCMV Z protein, abrogated Z-L interaction. The L72A mutation did not affect Z budding activity but promoted its rapid degradation in the presence of an active viral ribonucleoprotein (vRNP). Our findings have uncovered novel aspects of the dynamics of the Z protein for which a highly conserved L residue was strictly required. Copyright © 2018 American Society for Microbiology.

Public healthcare interests require strict competition enforcement.

PubMed

Loozen, Edith M H

2015-07-01

Several countries have introduced competition in their health systems in order to maintain the supply of high quality health care in a cost-effective manner. The introduction of competition triggers competition enforcement. Since healthcare is characterized by specific market failures, many favor healthcare-specific competition enforcement in order not only to account for the competition interest, but also for the healthcare interests. The question is whether healthcare systems based on competition can succeed when competition enforcement deviates from standard practice. This paper analyzes whether healthcare-specific competition enforcement is theoretically sound and practically effective. This is exemplified by the Dutch system that is based on regulated competition and thus crucially depends on getting competition enforcement right. Governments are responsible for correcting market failures. Markets are responsible for maximizing the public healthcare interests. By securing sufficient competitive pressure, competition enforcement makes sure they do. When interpreted according to welfare-economics, competition law takes into account both costs and benefits specific market behavior may have for healthcare. Competition agencies and judiciary are not legitimized to deviate from standard evidentiary requirements. Dutch case law shows that healthcare-specific enforcement favors the healthcare undertakings concerned, but to the detriment of public health care. Healthcare-specific competition enforcement is conceptually flawed and counterproductive. In order for healthcare systems based on competition to succeed, competition enforcement should be strict. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

The activity of the anti-apoptotic fragment generated by the caspase-3/p120 RasGAP stress-sensing module displays strict Akt isoform specificity.

PubMed

Vanli, Güliz; Peltzer, Nieves; Dubuis, Gilles; Widmann, Christian

2014-12-01

The caspase-3/p120 RasGAP module acts as a stress sensor that promotes pro-survival or pro-death signaling depending on the intensity and the duration of the stressful stimuli. Partial cleavage of p120 RasGAP generates a fragment, called fragment N, which protects stressed cells by activating Akt signaling. Akt family members regulate many cellular processes including proliferation, inhibition of apoptosis and metabolism. These cellular processes are regulated by three distinct Akt isoforms: Akt1, Akt2 and Akt3. However, which of these isoforms are required for fragment N mediated protection have not been defined. In this study, we investigated the individual contribution of each isoform in fragment N-mediated cell protection against Fas ligand induced cell death. To this end, DLD1 and HCT116 isogenic cell lines lacking specific Akt isoforms were used. It was found that fragment N could activate Akt1 and Akt2 but that only the former could mediate the protective activity of the RasGAP-derived fragment. Even overexpression of Akt2 or Akt3 could not rescue the inability of fragment N to protect cells lacking Akt1. These results demonstrate a strict Akt isoform requirement for the anti-apoptotic activity of fragment N. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Technology to Establish a Factory for High QE Alkali Antimonide Photocathodes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Schultheiss, Thomas

2015-11-16

Intense electron beams are key to a large number of scientific endeavors, including electron cooling of hadron beams, electron-positron colliders, secondary-particle beams such as photons and positrons, sub-picosecond ultrafast electron diffraction (UED), and new high gradient accelerators that use electron-driven plasmas. The last decade has seen a considerable interest in pursuit and realization of novel light sources such as Free Electron Lasers [1] and Energy Recovery Linacs [2] that promise to deliver unprecedented quality x-ray beams. Many applications for high-intensity electron beams have arisen in recent years in high-energy physics, nuclear physics and energy sciences, such as recent designs formore » an electron-hadron collider at CERN (LHeC) [3], and beam coolers for hadron beams at LHC and eRHIC [4,5]. Photoinjectors are used at the majority of high-brightness electron linacs today, due to their efficiency, timing structure flexibility and ability to produce high power, high brightness beams. The performance of light source machines is strongly related to the brightness of the electron beam used for generating the x-rays. The brightness of the electron beam itself is mainly limited by the physical processes by which electrons are generated. For laser based photoemission sources this limit is ultimately related to the properties of photocathodes [6]. Most facilities are required to expend significant manpower and money to achieve a workable, albeit often non-ideal, compromise photocathode solution. If entirely fabricated in-house, the photocathode growth process itself is laborious and not always reproducible: it involves the human element while requiring close adherence to recipes and extremely strict control of deposition parameters. Lack of growth reliability and as a consequence, slow adoption of viable photoemitter types, can be partly attributed to the absence of any centralized facility or commercial entity to routinely provide high peak current capable, low emittance, visible-light sensitive photocathodes to the myriad of source systems in use and under development. Successful adoption of photocathodes requires strict adherence to proper fabrication, operation, and maintenance methodologies, necessitating specialized knowledge and skills. Key issues include the choice of photoemitter material, development of a more streamlined growth process to minimize human operator uncertainties, accommodation of varying photoemitter substrate materials and geometries, efficient transport and insertion mechanisms preserving the photo-yield, and properly conveyed photoemitter operational and maintenance methodologies. AES, in collaboration with Cornell University in a Phase I STTR, developed an on-demand industrialized growth and centralized delivery system for high-brightness photocathodes focused upon the alkali antimonide photoemitters. To the end user, future photoemitter sourcing will become as simple as other readily available consumables, rather than a research project requiring large investments in time and personnel.« less

Accuracy Assessment in Determining the Location of Corners of Building Structures Using a Combination of Various Measurement Methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krzyżek, Robert; Przewięźlikowska, Anna

2017-12-01

When surveys of corners of building structures are carried out, surveyors frequently use a compilation of two surveying methods. The first one involves the determination of several corners with reference to a geodetic control using classical methods of surveying field details. The second method relates to the remaining corner points of a structure, which are determined in sequence from distance-distance intersection, using control linear values of the wall faces of the building, the so-called tie distances. This paper assesses the accuracy of coordinates of corner points of a building structure, determined using the method of distance-distance intersection, based on the corners which had previously been determined by the conducted surveys tied to a geodetic control. It should be noted, however, that such a method of surveying the corners of building structures from linear measures is based on the details of the first-order accuracy, while the regulations explicitly allow such measurement only for the details of the second- and third-order accuracy. Therefore, a question arises whether this legal provision is unfounded, or whether surveyors are acting not only against the applicable standards but also without due diligence while performing surveys? This study provides answers to the formulated problem. The main purpose of the study was to verify whether the actual method which is used in practice for surveying building structures allows to obtain the required accuracy of coordinates of the points being determined, or whether it should be strictly forbidden. The results of the conducted studies clearly demonstrate that the problem is definitely more complex. Eventually, however, it might be assumed that assessment of the accuracy in determining a location of corners of a building using a combination of two different surveying methods will meet the requirements of the regulation [MIA, 2011), subject to compliance with relevant baseline criteria, which have been presented in this study. Observance of the proposed boundary conditions would allow for frequent performance of surveys of building structures by surveyors (from tie distances), while maintaining the applicable accuracy criteria. This would allow for the inclusion of surveying documentation into the national geodetic and cartographic documentation center database pursuant to the legal bases.

Somatic embryo-like structures of strawberry regenerated in vitro on media supplemented with 2,4-D and BAP.

PubMed

Omar, Genesia F; Mohamed, Fouad H; Haensch, Klaus-Thomas; Sarg, Sawsan H; Morsey, Mohamed M

2013-09-01

Somatic embryo-like structures (SELS) were produced in vitro from leaf disk and petiole explants of two cultivars of strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duch) on Murashige and Skoog medium with different concentrations and combinations of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) and sucrose to check the embryonic nature of these structures histologically. A large number of SELS could be regenerated in both cultivars on media with 2-4 mg L(-1) 2,4-D in combination with 0.5 -1 mg L(-1) BAP and 50 g x L(-1) sucrose. Histological examination of SELS revealed the absence of a root pole. Therefore these structures cannot be strictly classified as somatic embryos. The SELS formed under the tested culture conditions represent malformed shoot-like and leaf-like structures. The importance of these results for the propagation of strawberries via somatic embryogenesis is discussed.

Oxygen induces mutation in a strict anaerobe, Prevotella melaninogenica.

PubMed

Takumi, Shota; Komatsu, Masaharu; Aoyama, Kohji; Watanabe, Kunitomo; Takeuchi, Toru

2008-05-15

Strict anaerobes are highly sensitive to oxygen, but the mutagenicity of oxygen in strict anaerobes has not been well understood. Prevotella melaninogenica, a strict anaerobe, is susceptible to oxygen and shows an increase in oxidative DNA damage upon exposure to oxygen. In this study, we have investigated the mutagenicity of oxygen and the types of mutations induced by oxygen. Exposure to oxygen decreased cell survival and increased the levels of 8-oxo-deoxyguanosine (8-oxodG). The frequency of rifampicin-resistant mutants was markedly increased after exposure to oxygen. After sequencing a 254-bp fragment of the rpoB gene, which encodes the beta subunit of bacterial RNA polymerase, a target molecule of rifampicin, we found that most mutants induced by oxygen had GC to TA transversions, a signature of 8-oxodG. In addition, all detected single-nucleotide changes would lead to amino acid changes that confer rifampicin resistance. These results indicate that oxygen is mutagenic in a strict anaerobe, P. melaninogenica, and its mutagenic characteristics could be analyzed with this experimental system.

[Principles of traditional Chinese medicine].

PubMed

Meng, A

2000-01-01

The beginnings of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) can be related to the three most important philosophic and religious personalities. Modern Western medicine (MM), which was already sensationally successful at that time, was brought to China by business men, missionaries and soldiers. Compared to MM, the theories of TCM seem abstract, its concept unusual. Historical hallmarks of TCM influenced by culture are the following: the medical system is philosophical, oriented towards humanism. TCM is a medical system without strict structural relationships (without anatomy).

Managing curriculum transformation within strict university governance structures: an example from Damascus University Medical School.

PubMed

Kayyal, Mohammad; Gibbs, Trevor

2012-01-01

As the world of medical education moves forward, it becomes increasingly clear that the transformative process is not as easy a process for all. Across the globe, there appears to be many barriers that obstruct or threaten innovation and change, most of which cause almost insurmountable problems to many schools. If transformative education is to result in an equitable raising of standards across such an unlevel playing field, schools have to find ways in overcoming these barriers. One seemingly common barrier to development occurs when medical schools are trapped within strict University governance structures; rules and regulations which are frequently inappropriate and obstructive to the transformation that must occur in today's medical educational paradigm. The Faculty of Medicine at Damascus University, one of the oldest and foremost medical schools in the Middle East, is one such school where rigid rules and regulations and traditional values are obstructing transformative change. This paper describes the problems, which the authors believe to be common to many, and explores how attempts have been made to overcome them and move the school into the twenty-first century. It is the ultimate purpose of this paper to raise awareness of the issue, share the lessons learned in order to assist others who are experiencing similar problems and possibly create opportunities for dialogue between schools.

The Spatial and the Visual in Mental Spatial Reasoning: An Ill-Posed Distinction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schultheis, Holger; Bertel, Sven; Barkowsky, Thomas; Seifert, Inessa

It is an ongoing and controversial debate in cognitive science which aspects of knowledge humans process visually and which ones they process spatially. Similarly, artificial intelligence (AI) and cognitive science research, in building computational cognitive systems, tended to use strictly spatial or strictly visual representations. The resulting systems, however, were suboptimal both with respect to computational efficiency and cognitive plau sibility. In this paper, we propose that the problems in both research strands stem from a mis conception of the visual and the spatial in mental spatial knowl edge pro cessing. Instead of viewing the visual and the spatial as two clearly separable categories, they should be conceptualized as the extremes of a con tinuous dimension of representation. Regarding psychology, a continuous di mension avoids the need to exclusively assign processes and representations to either one of the cate gories and, thus, facilitates a more unambiguous rating of processes and rep resentations. Regarding AI and cognitive science, the con cept of a continuous spatial / visual dimension provides the possibility of rep re sentation structures which can vary continuously along the spatial / visual di mension. As a first step in exploiting these potential advantages of the pro posed conception we (a) introduce criteria allowing for a non-dichotomic judgment of processes and representations and (b) present an approach towards rep re sentation structures that can flexibly vary along the spatial / visual dimension.

Controlled growth of CNT in mesoporous AAO through optimized conditions for membrane preparation and CVD operation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ciambelli, P.; Arurault, L.; Sarno, M.; Fontorbes, S.; Leone, C.; Datas, L.; Sannino, D.; Lenormand, P.; Le Blond Du Plouy, S.

2011-07-01

Anodic aluminium oxide (RAAO) membranes with a mesoporous structure were prepared under strictly controlling experimental process conditions, and physically and chemically characterized by a wide range of experimental techniques. Commercial anodic aluminium oxide (CAAO) membranes were also investigated for comparison. We demonstrated that RAAO membranes have lower content of both water and phosphorus and showed better porosity shape than CAAO. The RAAO membranes were used for template growth of carbon nanotubes (CNT) inside its pores by ethylene chemical vapour deposition (CVD) in the absence of a catalyst. A composite material, containing one nanotube for each channel, having the same length as the membrane thickness and an external diameter close to the diameter of the membrane holes, was obtained. Yield, selectivity and quality of CNTs in terms of diameter, length and arrangement (i.e. number of tubes for each channel) were optimized by investigating the effect of changing the experimental conditions for the CVD process. We showed that upon thermal treatment RAAO membranes were made up of crystallized allotropic alumina phases, which govern the subsequent CNT growth, because of their catalytic activity, likely due to their Lewis acidity. The strict control of experimental conditions for membrane preparation and CNT growth allowed us to enhance the carbon structural order, which is a critical requisite for CNT application as a substitute for copper in novel nano-interconnects.

Controlled growth of CNT in mesoporous AAO through optimized conditions for membrane preparation and CVD operation.

PubMed

Ciambelli, P; Arurault, L; Sarno, M; Fontorbes, S; Leone, C; Datas, L; Sannino, D; Lenormand, P; Du Plouy, S Le Blond

2011-07-01

Anodic aluminium oxide (RAAO) membranes with a mesoporous structure were prepared under strictly controlling experimental process conditions, and physically and chemically characterized by a wide range of experimental techniques. Commercial anodic aluminium oxide (CAAO) membranes were also investigated for comparison. We demonstrated that RAAO membranes have lower content of both water and phosphorus and showed better porosity shape than CAAO. The RAAO membranes were used for template growth of carbon nanotubes (CNT) inside its pores by ethylene chemical vapour deposition (CVD) in the absence of a catalyst. A composite material, containing one nanotube for each channel, having the same length as the membrane thickness and an external diameter close to the diameter of the membrane holes, was obtained. Yield, selectivity and quality of CNTs in terms of diameter, length and arrangement (i.e. number of tubes for each channel) were optimized by investigating the effect of changing the experimental conditions for the CVD process. We showed that upon thermal treatment RAAO membranes were made up of crystallized allotropic alumina phases, which govern the subsequent CNT growth, because of their catalytic activity, likely due to their Lewis acidity. The strict control of experimental conditions for membrane preparation and CNT growth allowed us to enhance the carbon structural order, which is a critical requisite for CNT application as a substitute for copper in novel nano-interconnects.

The Infrared Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS) for TMT: multi-tiered wavefront measurements and novel mechanical design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dunn, Jennifer; Andersen, David; Chapin, Edward; Reshetov, Vlad; Wierzbicki, Ramunas; Herriot, Glen; Chalmer, Dean; Isbrucker, Victor; Larkin, James E.; Moore, Anna M.; Suzuki, Ryuji

2016-08-01

The InfraRed Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS) will be the first light adaptive optics instrument on the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT). IRIS is being built by a collaboration between Caltech, the University of California, NAOJ and NRC Herzberg. In this paper we present novel aspects of the Support Structure, Rotator and On-Instrument Wavefront Sensor systems being developed at NRC Herzberg. IRIS is suspended from the bottom port of the Narrow Field Infrared Adaptive Optics System (NFIRAOS), and provides its own image de-rotation to compensate for sidereal rotation of the focal plane. This arrangement is a challenge because NFIRAOS is designed to host two other science instruments, which imposes strict mass requirements on IRIS. As the mechanical design of all elements has progressed, we have been tasked with keeping the instrument mass under seven tonnes. This requirement has resulted in a mass reduction of 30 percent for the support structure and rotator compared to the most recent IRIS designs. To accomplish this goal, while still being able to withstand earthquakes, we developed a new design with composite materials. As IRIS is a client instrument of NFIRAOS, it benefits from NFIRAOS's superior AO correction. IRIS plays an important role in providing this correction by sensing low-order aberrations with three On-Instrument Wavefront Sensors (OIWFS). The OIWFS consists of three independently positioned natural guide star wavefront sensor probe arms that patrol a 2-arcminute field of view. We expect tip-tilt measurements from faint stars within the IRIS imager focal plane will further stabilize the delivered image quality. We describe how the use of On-Detector Guide Windows (ODGWs) in the IRIS imaging detector can be incorporated into the AO correction. In this paper, we present our strategies for acquiring and tracking sources with this complex AO system, and for mitigating and measuring the various potential sources of image blur and misalignment due to properties of the mechanical structure and interfaces.

Proline residues in transmembrane segment IV are critical for activity, expression and targeting of the Na+/H+ exchanger isoform 1.

PubMed Central

Slepkov, Emily R; Chow, Signy; Lemieux, M Joanne; Fliegel, Larry

2004-01-01

NHE1 (Na+/H+ exchanger isoform 1) is a ubiquitously expressed integral membrane protein that regulates intracellular pH in mammalian cells. Proline residues within transmembrane segments have unusual properties, acting as helix breakers and increasing flexibility of membrane segments, since they lack an amide hydrogen. We examined the importance of three conserved proline residues in TM IV (transmembrane segment IV) of NHE1. Pro167 and Pro168 were mutated to Gly, Ala or Cys, and Pro178 was mutated to Ala. Pro168 and Pro178 mutant proteins were expressed at levels similar to wild-type NHE1 and were targeted to the plasma membrane. However, the mutants P167G (Pro167-->Gly), P167A and P167C were expressed at lower levels compared with wild-type NHE1, and a significant portion of P167G and P167C were retained intracellularly, possibly indicating induced changes in the structure of TM IV. P167G, P167C, P168A and P168C mutations abolished NHE activity, and P167A and P168G mutations caused markedly decreased activity. In contrast, the activity of the P178A mutant was not significantly different from that of wild-type NHE1. The results indicate that both Pro167 and Pro168 in TM IV of NHE1 are required for normal NHE activity. In addition, mutation of Pro167 affects the expression and membrane targeting of the exchanger. Thus both Pro167 and Pro168 are strictly required for NHE function and may play critical roles in the structure of TM IV of the NHE. PMID:14680478

Calsyntenin-3 molecular architecture and interaction with neurexin 1α.

PubMed

Lu, Zhuoyang; Wang, Yun; Chen, Fang; Tong, Huimin; Reddy, M V V V Sekhar; Luo, Lin; Seshadrinathan, Suchithra; Zhang, Lei; Holthauzen, Luis Marcelo F; Craig, Ann Marie; Ren, Gang; Rudenko, Gabby

2014-12-12

Calsyntenin 3 (Cstn3 or Clstn3), a recently identified synaptic organizer, promotes the development of synapses. Cstn3 localizes to the postsynaptic membrane and triggers presynaptic differentiation. Calsyntenin members play an evolutionarily conserved role in memory and learning. Cstn3 was recently shown in cell-based assays to interact with neurexin 1α (n1α), a synaptic organizer that is implicated in neuropsychiatric disease. Interaction would permit Cstn3 and n1α to form a trans-synaptic complex and promote synaptic differentiation. However, it is contentious whether Cstn3 binds n1α directly. To understand the structure and function of Cstn3, we determined its architecture by electron microscopy and delineated the interaction between Cstn3 and n1α biochemically and biophysically. We show that Cstn3 ectodomains form monomers as well as tetramers that are stabilized by disulfide bonds and Ca(2+), and both are probably flexible in solution. We show further that the extracellular domains of Cstn3 and n1α interact directly and that both Cstn3 monomers and tetramers bind n1α with nanomolar affinity. The interaction is promoted by Ca(2+) and requires minimally the LNS domain of Cstn3. Furthermore, Cstn3 uses a fundamentally different mechanism to bind n1α compared with other neurexin partners, such as the synaptic organizer neuroligin 2, because Cstn3 does not strictly require the sixth LNS domain of n1α. Our structural data suggest how Cstn3 as a synaptic organizer on the postsynaptic membrane, particularly in tetrameric form, may assemble radially symmetric trans-synaptic bridges with the presynaptic synaptic organizer n1α to recruit and spatially organize proteins into networks essential for synaptic function. © 2014 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Serotype-specific differences in dengue virus non-structural protein 5 nuclear localization.

PubMed

Hannemann, Holger; Sung, Po-Yu; Chiu, Han-Chen; Yousuf, Amjad; Bird, Jim; Lim, Siew Pheng; Davidson, Andrew D

2013-08-02

The four serotypes of dengue virus (DENV-1 to -4) cause the most important arthropod-borne viral disease of humans. DENV non-structural protein 5 (NS5) contains enzymatic activities required for capping and replication of the viral RNA genome that occurs in the host cytoplasm. However, previous studies have shown that DENV-2 NS5 accumulates in the nucleus during infection. In this study, we examined the nuclear localization of NS5 for all four DENV serotypes. We demonstrate for the first time that there are serotypic differences in NS5 nuclear localization. Whereas the DENV-2 and -3 proteins accumulate in the nucleus, DENV-1 and -4 NS5 are predominantly if not exclusively localized to the cytoplasm. Comparative studies on the DENV-2 and -4 NS5 proteins revealed that the difference in DENV-4 NS5 nuclear localization was not due to rapid nuclear export but rather the lack of a functional nuclear localization sequence. Interaction studies using DENV-2 and -4 NS5 and human importin-α isoforms failed to identify an interaction that supported the differential nuclear localization of NS5. siRNA knockdown of the human importin-α isoform KPNA2, corresponding to the murine importin-α isoform previously shown to bind to DENV-2 NS5, did not substantially affect DENV-2 NS5 nuclear localization, whereas knockdown of importin-β did. The serotypic differences in NS5 nuclear localization did not correlate with differences in IL-8 gene expression. The results show that NS5 nuclear localization is not strictly required for virus replication but is more likely to have an auxiliary function in the life cycle of specific DENV serotypes.

Serotype-specific Differences in Dengue Virus Non-structural Protein 5 Nuclear Localization*

PubMed Central

Hannemann, Holger; Sung, Po-Yu; Chiu, Han-Chen; Yousuf, Amjad; Bird, Jim; Lim, Siew Pheng; Davidson, Andrew D.

2013-01-01

The four serotypes of dengue virus (DENV-1 to -4) cause the most important arthropod-borne viral disease of humans. DENV non-structural protein 5 (NS5) contains enzymatic activities required for capping and replication of the viral RNA genome that occurs in the host cytoplasm. However, previous studies have shown that DENV-2 NS5 accumulates in the nucleus during infection. In this study, we examined the nuclear localization of NS5 for all four DENV serotypes. We demonstrate for the first time that there are serotypic differences in NS5 nuclear localization. Whereas the DENV-2 and -3 proteins accumulate in the nucleus, DENV-1 and -4 NS5 are predominantly if not exclusively localized to the cytoplasm. Comparative studies on the DENV-2 and -4 NS5 proteins revealed that the difference in DENV-4 NS5 nuclear localization was not due to rapid nuclear export but rather the lack of a functional nuclear localization sequence. Interaction studies using DENV-2 and -4 NS5 and human importin-α isoforms failed to identify an interaction that supported the differential nuclear localization of NS5. siRNA knockdown of the human importin-α isoform KPNA2, corresponding to the murine importin-α isoform previously shown to bind to DENV-2 NS5, did not substantially affect DENV-2 NS5 nuclear localization, whereas knockdown of importin-β did. The serotypic differences in NS5 nuclear localization did not correlate with differences in IL-8 gene expression. The results show that NS5 nuclear localization is not strictly required for virus replication but is more likely to have an auxiliary function in the life cycle of specific DENV serotypes. PMID:23770669

Crystal structure of the Src family kinase Hck SH3-SH2 linker regulatory region supports an SH3-dominant activation mechanism.

PubMed

Alvarado, John J; Betts, Laurie; Moroco, Jamie A; Smithgall, Thomas E; Yeh, Joanne I

2010-11-12

Most mammalian cell types depend on multiple Src family kinases (SFKs) to regulate diverse signaling pathways. Strict control of SFK activity is essential for normal cellular function, and loss of kinase regulation contributes to several forms of cancer and other diseases. Previous x-ray crystal structures of the SFKs c-Src and Hck revealed that intramolecular association of their Src homology (SH) 3 domains and SH2 kinase linker regions has a key role in down-regulation of kinase activity. However, the amino acid sequence of the Hck linker represents a suboptimal ligand for the isolated SH3 domain, suggesting that it may form the polyproline type II helical conformation required for SH3 docking only in the context of the intact structure. To test this hypothesis directly, we determined the crystal structure of a truncated Hck protein consisting of the SH2 and SH3 domains plus the linker. Despite the absence of the kinase domain, the structures and relative orientations of the SH2 and SH3 domains in this shorter protein were very similar to those observed in near full-length, down-regulated Hck. However, the SH2 kinase linker adopted a modified topology and failed to engage the SH3 domain. This new structure supports the idea that these noncatalytic regions work together as a "conformational switch" that modulates kinase activity in a manner unique to the SH3 domain and linker topologies present in the intact Hck protein. Our results also provide fresh structural insight into the facile induction of Hck activity by HIV-1 Nef and other Hck SH3 domain binding proteins and implicate the existence of innate conformational states unique to individual Src family members that "fine-tune" their sensitivities to activation by SH3-based ligands.

Diagnostic Significance of Cortical Superficial Siderosis for Alzheimer Disease in Patients with Cognitive Impairment.

PubMed

Inoue, Y; Nakajima, M; Uetani, H; Hirai, T; Ueda, M; Kitajima, M; Utsunomiya, D; Watanabe, M; Hashimoto, M; Ikeda, M; Yamashita, Y; Ando, Y

2016-02-01

Because the diagnostic significance of cortical superficial siderosis for Alzheimer disease and the association between cortical superficial siderosis and the topographic distribution of cerebral microbleeds have been unclear, we investigated the association between cortical superficial siderosis and clinicoradiologic characteristics of patients with cognitive impairment. We studied 347 patients (217 women, 130 men; mean age, 74 ± 9 years) who visited our memory clinic and underwent MR imaging (3T SWI). We analyzed the association between cortical superficial siderosis and the topographic distribution of cerebral microbleeds plus clinical characteristics including types of dementia. We used multivariate logistic regression analysis to determine the diagnostic significance of cortical superficial siderosis for Alzheimer disease. Twelve patients (3.5%) manifested cortical superficial siderosis. They were older (P = .026) and had strictly lobar cerebral microbleeds significantly more often than did patients without cortical superficial siderosis (50.0% versus 19.4%, P = .02); the occurrence of strictly deep and mixed cerebral microbleeds, however, did not differ in the 2 groups. Alzheimer disease was diagnosed in 162 (46.7%) patients. Of these, 8 patients (4.9%) had cortical superficial siderosis. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis for the diagnosis of Alzheimer disease, lacunar infarcts were negatively and independently associated with Alzheimer disease (P = .007). Although cortical superficial siderosis was associated with a strictly lobar cerebral microbleed location, it was not independently associated with Alzheimer disease in a memory clinic setting. Additional studies are required to investigate the temporal changes of these cerebral amyloid angiopathy-related MR imaging findings. © 2016 by American Journal of Neuroradiology.

A test of the double-shearing model of flow for granular materials

USGS Publications Warehouse

Savage, J.C.; Lockner, D.A.

1997-01-01

The double-shearing model of flow attributes plastic deformation in granular materials to cooperative slip on conjugate Coulomb shears (surfaces upon which the Coulomb yield condition is satisfied). The strict formulation of the double-shearing model then requires that the slip lines in the material coincide with the Coulomb shears. Three different experiments that approximate simple shear deformation in granular media appear to be inconsistent with this strict formulation. For example, the orientation of the principal stress axes in a layer of sand driven in steady, simple shear was measured subject to the assumption that the Coulomb failure criterion was satisfied on some surfaces (orientation unspecified) within the sand layer. The orientation of the inferred principal compressive axis was then compared with the orientations predicted by the double-shearing model. The strict formulation of the model [Spencer, 1982] predicts that the principal stress axes should rotate in a sense opposite to that inferred from the experiments. A less restrictive formulation of the double-shearing model by de Josselin de Jong [1971] does not completely specify the solution but does prescribe limits on the possible orientations of the principal stress axes. The orientations of the principal compression axis inferred from the experiments are probably within those limits. An elastoplastic formulation of the double-shearing model [de Josselin de Jong, 1988] is reasonably consistent with the experiments, although quantitative agreement was not attained. Thus we conclude that the double-shearing model may be a viable law to describe deformation of granular materials, but the macroscopic slip surfaces will not in general coincide with the Coulomb shears.

On the Significance of Bacterial triterpenic Biomarkers in Sediments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rohmer, M.

2004-12-01

Triterpenic biomarkers are ubiquitous in the organic matter of sediments. Bacterial contribution is essential for several series. Despite the numerous investigations performed over the last decades, little is known about the distribution of triterpenoids in Eubacteria. An updated survey of triterpene distribution in Eubacteria points out a much broader diversity of the structures than expected ten years ago. Hopanoids characterized by their C35 skeleton resulting from a carbon/carbon linkage between the triterpene hopane skeleton and a D-ribose derivative are the most frequent ones. Their distribution cannot be readily interpreted and may result from lateral gene transfer. Many groups, such as strict anaerobes, are underrepresented in the screenings, mainly because of the complex techniques required for their growth. Most of the bacterial hopanoids belong to the (17α H,21β H) series, corresponding to the stereochemistry of hopanoid biomarkers from non-mature sediments. (17β H,21α H)- and especially (17α ,21β H)-hopanoids are derived from the former series via diagenesis and maturation of the organic matter. Both series were, however, recently found in widespread soil bacteria (Frankia spp., Geodermatophilus spp.) questioning at least partially their significance as maturation indicators. Quasi-hopanoids with the gammacerane skeleton were first found in ciliate protozoa. They are also present in high concentrations in the phylogenetically related bacteria Rhodopseudomonas palustris and all Bradyrhizobium spp. In all closely investigated hopanoid producing bacteria, a complex mixture of triterpene hydrocarbons accompanied in small amounts hop-22(29)-ene. They include pentacyclic triterpenes (rearranged hopenes, fernenes) as well as tetracyclic triterpenes (dammaradienes, euphadienes) and result from a lack of strict control of the cyclization process by the squalene/hopene cyclase. Triterpenoids related to sterol biosynthesis (lanosterol, cycloartenol) have been found in a few scattered taxa. Their contribution to the sediment biomarkers is not obvious. Finally, the reactions leading from biohopanoids to the geohopanoids are poorly known. Only evidence for abiotic degradation rather than for biological degradation is available.

PAN AIR: A computer program for predicting subsonic or supersonic linear potential flows about arbitrary configurations using a higher order panel method. Volume 4: Maintenance document (version 3.0)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Purdon, David J.; Baruah, Pranab K.; Bussoletti, John E.; Epton, Michael A.; Massena, William A.; Nelson, Franklin D.; Tsurusaki, Kiyoharu

1990-01-01

The Maintenance Document Version 3.0 is a guide to the PAN AIR software system, a system which computes the subsonic or supersonic linear potential flow about a body of nearly arbitrary shape, using a higher order panel method. The document describes the overall system and each program module of the system. Sufficient detail is given for program maintenance, updating, and modification. It is assumed that the reader is familiar with programming and CRAY computer systems. The PAN AIR system was written in FORTRAN 4 language except for a few CAL language subroutines which exist in the PAN AIR library. Structured programming techniques were used to provide code documentation and maintainability. The operating systems accommodated are COS 1.11, COS 1.12, COS 1.13, and COS 1.14 on the CRAY 1S, 1M, and X-MP computing systems. The system is comprised of a data base management system, a program library, an execution control module, and nine separate FORTRAN technical modules. Each module calculates part of the posed PAN AIR problem. The data base manager is used to communicate between modules and within modules. The technical modules must be run in a prescribed fashion for each PAN AIR problem. In order to ease the problem of supplying the many JCL cards required to execute the modules, a set of CRAY procedures (PAPROCS) was created to automatically supply most of the JCL cards. Most of this document has not changed for Version 3.0. It now, however, strictly applies only to PAN AIR version 3.0. The major changes are: (1) additional sections covering the new FDP module (which calculates streamlines and offbody points); (2) a complete rewrite of the section on the MAG module; and (3) strict applicability to CRAY computing systems.

Necessary conditions for the emergence of homochirality via autocatalytic self-replication

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Stich, Michael; Ribó, Josep M.; Blackmond, Donna G., E-mail: blackmond@scripps.edu

We analyze a recent proposal for spontaneous mirror symmetry breaking based on the coupling of first-order enantioselective autocatalysis and direct production of the enantiomers that invokes a critical role for intrinsic reaction noise. For isolated systems, the racemic state is the unique stable outcome for both stochastic and deterministic dynamics when the system is in compliance with the constraints dictated by the thermodynamics of chemical reaction processes. In open systems, the racemic outcome also results for both stochastic and deterministic dynamics when driving the autocatalysis unidirectionally by external reagents. Nonracemic states can result in the latter only if the reversemore » reactions are strictly zero: these are kinetically controlled outcomes for small populations and volumes, and can be simulated by stochastic dynamics. However, the stability of the thermodynamic limit proves that the racemic outcome is the unique stable state for strictly irreversible externally driven autocatalysis. These findings contradict the suggestion that the inhibition requirement of the Frank autocatalytic model for the emergence of homochirality may be relaxed in a noise-induced mechanism.« less

Optimal design of the first stage of the plate-fin heat exchanger for the EAST cryogenic system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qingfeng, JIANG; Zhigang, ZHU; Qiyong, ZHANG; Ming, ZHUANG; Xiaofei, LU

2018-03-01

The size of the heat exchanger is an important factor determining the dimensions of the cold box in helium cryogenic systems. In this paper, a counter-flow multi-stream plate-fin heat exchanger is optimized by means of a spatial interpolation method coupled with a hybrid genetic algorithm. Compared with empirical correlations, this spatial interpolation algorithm based on a kriging model can be adopted to more precisely predict the Colburn heat transfer factors and Fanning friction factors of offset-strip fins. Moreover, strict computational fluid dynamics simulations can be carried out to predict the heat transfer and friction performance in the absence of reliable experimental data. Within the constraints of heat exchange requirements, maximum allowable pressure drop, existing manufacturing techniques and structural strength, a mathematical model of an optimized design with discrete and continuous variables based on a hybrid genetic algorithm is established in order to minimize the volume. The results show that for the first-stage heat exchanger in the EAST refrigerator, the structural size could be decreased from the original 2.200 × 0.600 × 0.627 (m3) to the optimized 1.854 × 0.420 × 0.340 (m3), with a large reduction in volume. The current work demonstrates that the proposed method could be a useful tool to achieve optimization in an actual engineering project during the practical design process.

Chaotic Motifs in Gene Regulatory Networks

PubMed Central

Zhang, Zhaoyang; Ye, Weiming; Qian, Yu; Zheng, Zhigang; Huang, Xuhui; Hu, Gang

2012-01-01

Chaos should occur often in gene regulatory networks (GRNs) which have been widely described by nonlinear coupled ordinary differential equations, if their dimensions are no less than 3. It is therefore puzzling that chaos has never been reported in GRNs in nature and is also extremely rare in models of GRNs. On the other hand, the topic of motifs has attracted great attention in studying biological networks, and network motifs are suggested to be elementary building blocks that carry out some key functions in the network. In this paper, chaotic motifs (subnetworks with chaos) in GRNs are systematically investigated. The conclusion is that: (i) chaos can only appear through competitions between different oscillatory modes with rivaling intensities. Conditions required for chaotic GRNs are found to be very strict, which make chaotic GRNs extremely rare. (ii) Chaotic motifs are explored as the simplest few-node structures capable of producing chaos, and serve as the intrinsic source of chaos of random few-node GRNs. Several optimal motifs causing chaos with atypically high probability are figured out. (iii) Moreover, we discovered that a number of special oscillators can never produce chaos. These structures bring some advantages on rhythmic functions and may help us understand the robustness of diverse biological rhythms. (iv) The methods of dominant phase-advanced driving (DPAD) and DPAD time fraction are proposed to quantitatively identify chaotic motifs and to explain the origin of chaotic behaviors in GRNs. PMID:22792171

Habitat fragmentation in coastal southern California disrupts genetic connectivity in the cactus wren (Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Barr, Kelly R.; Kus, Barbara E.; Preston, Kristine; Howell, Scarlett; Perkins, Emily; Vandergast, Amy

2015-01-01

Achieving long-term persistence of species in urbanized landscapes requires characterizing population genetic structure to understand and manage the effects of anthropogenic disturbance on connectivity. Urbanization over the past century in coastal southern California has caused both precipitous loss of coastal sage scrub habitat and declines in populations of the cactus wren (Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus). Using 22 microsatellite loci, we found that remnant cactus wren aggregations in coastal southern California comprised 20 populations based on strict exact tests for population differentiation, and 12 genetic clusters with hierarchical Bayesian clustering analyses. Genetic structure patterns largely mirrored underlying habitat availability, with cluster and population boundaries coinciding with fragmentation caused primarily by urbanization. Using a habitat model we developed, we detected stronger associations between habitat-based distances and genetic distances than Euclidean geographic distance. Within populations, we detected a positive association between available local habitat and allelic richness and a negative association with relatedness. Isolation-by-distance patterns varied over the study area, which we attribute to temporal differences in anthropogenic landscape development. We also found that genetic bottleneck signals were associated with wildfire frequency. These results indicate that habitat fragmentation and alterations have reduced genetic connectivity and diversity of cactus wren populations in coastal southern California. Management efforts focused on improving connectivity among remaining populations may help to ensure population persistence.

Repurposing a Benchtop Centrifuge for High-Throughput Single-Molecule Force Spectroscopy.

PubMed

Yang, Darren; Wong, Wesley P

2018-01-01

We present high-throughput single-molecule manipulation using a benchtop centrifuge, overcoming limitations common in other single-molecule approaches such as high cost, low throughput, technical difficulty, and strict infrastructure requirements. An inexpensive and compact Centrifuge Force Microscope (CFM) adapted to a commercial centrifuge enables use by nonspecialists, and integration with DNA nanoswitches facilitates both reliable measurements and repeated molecular interrogation. Here, we provide detailed protocols for constructing the CFM, creating DNA nanoswitch samples, and carrying out single-molecule force measurements.

The centrality of guilt: working with ultra-orthodox Jewish patients in Israel.

PubMed

Hess, Esther

2014-09-01

The ultra-orthodox Jewish (Haredi) community in Israel is characterized by strict observance of the requirements of orthodox Jewish life. Psychoanalytic psychotherapy within this community brings us into contact with guilt as a central emotion throughout the therapeutic process. The exposure to new concepts, ways of thought and a previously unknown space, together with increased awareness of internal wishes and drives, are experienced as forbidden areas that arouse an awakening of conscience and a sense of guilt. The author's cases illustrate these conflicts.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kantor, H.G.

In 1978, 89 patients were treated for (S. pneumoniae) pneumonia at New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center. Only 40 cases met rather strict diagnostic criteria. Of these, 12 demonstrated the classical consolidative (air space) pattern usually ascribed to this disease. A bronchopneumonic (patch) pattern was demonstrated in an equal number of patients; interstitial (irregular linear) infiltrates were manifest in nine cases and a mixed interstitial and patchy presentation shown in seven cases. Absence of the consolidative pattern does not exclude pneumococcal pneumonia. Bacteriologic investigation is required to determine the proper diagnosis and course of therapy.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

RF Kristensen; JF Beausang; DM DePoy

Frequency selective surfaces (FSS) effectively filter electromagnetic radiation in the microwave band (1 mm to 100 mm). Interest exists in extending this technology to the near infrared (1 {micro}m to 10 {micro}m) for use as a filter of thermal radiation in thermophotovoltaic (TPV) direct energy conversion. This paper assesses the ability of FSS to meet the strict spectral performance requirements of a TPV system. Inherent parasitic absorption, which is the result of the induced currents in the FSS metallization, is identified as a significant obstacle to achieving high spectral performance.

Behavioral and Pharmacological Tobacco Interventions for Military Personnel: A Meta Analysis

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-08-03

involving animals . as required by AFMAN 40-401 IP : " The experiments reported herein were conducted according to the principles set forth in the...National Ins titute of Health Publication No. 80-23, Gulde for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals and the Animal Welfare Act of 1966, as amended...NO I CERTIFY ANY HUMAN OR ANIMAL RESEARCH RELATED STUDIES WERE APPROVED ANO PERFORMED IN STRICT ACCORDANCE WITH 32 CFR 219, AFMAN 40-401_1P, AND 59

Sigma Theta Tau, DAaL/Texas Nurse Association, 2017 South Texas Nurse Imagemaker, Lt Col Jacqueline Killian

DTIC Science & Technology

2018-04-28

etc., should contain the following disclaimer statement for research involving animals , as required by AFMAN 40-401 IP : " The experiments reported...Laboratory Animals and the Animal Welfare Act of 1966, as amended.· 59 MOW FORM 3039, 20160628 Prescribed by 59 MDWI 41 -108 PREVIOUS EDITIONS ARE...HUMAN OR ANIMAL RESEARCH RELATED STUDIES WERE APPROVED AND PERFORMED IN STRICT ACCORDANCE WITH 32 CFR 219, AFMAN 40-401_1P, AND 59 MDWI 41-108. I

Specificity of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) for Biomedical Cell Products.

PubMed

Tulina, M A; Pyatigorskaya, N V

2018-03-01

The article describes special aspects of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) for biomedical cell products (BMCP) that imply high standards of aseptics throughout the entire productio process, strict requirements to donors and to the procedure of biomaterial isolation, guaranty of tracing BMCP products, defining processing procedures which allow to identify BMCP as minimally manipulated; continuous quality control and automation of the control process at all stages of manufacturing, which will ensure product release simultaneously with completion of technological operations.

Womens Services v. Thone.

PubMed

1982-10-14

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit affirmed the ruling of the U.S. District Court for the District of Nebraska that sections of Nebraska statutes regulating abortion were unconstitutional. The original issue in the case was the validity of the parental consultation requirement for minors under the age of eighteen but, on appeal of the decision on remand, the appropriate standard of review for statutes which regulate abortions was questioned. The Eighth Circuit continued to apply the strict scrutiny test.

Cyber security best practices for the nuclear industry

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Badr, I.

2012-07-01

When deploying software based systems, such as, digital instrumentation and controls for the nuclear industry, it is vital to include cyber security assessment as part of architecture and development process. When integrating and delivering software-intensive systems for the nuclear industry, engineering teams should make use of a secure, requirements driven, software development life cycle, ensuring security compliance and optimum return on investment. Reliability protections, data loss prevention, and privacy enforcement provide a strong case for installing strict cyber security policies. (authors)

Age Discrimination--Notice--Filing Notice of Intent to Sue Within 180 Days After the Alleged Violation Is a Jurisdictional Prerequisite to an Action Under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act. Hiscott v. General Elec. Co., 521 F. 2d 632 (6th Cir. 1975)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stiltner, L. Del

1976-01-01

The Hiscott decision indicates that the court will require notice to meet specific standards before an individual's right to maintain a civil action under the ADEA becomes operative. It also suggests that strict compliance with the 180-day notice provision will continue to be a condition precedent to suit. (Author/LBH)

Metabolomics variable selection and classification in the presence of observations below the detection limit using an extension of ERp.

PubMed

van Reenen, Mari; Westerhuis, Johan A; Reinecke, Carolus J; Venter, J Hendrik

2017-02-02

ERp is a variable selection and classification method for metabolomics data. ERp uses minimized classification error rates, based on data from a control and experimental group, to test the null hypothesis of no difference between the distributions of variables over the two groups. If the associated p-values are significant they indicate discriminatory variables (i.e. informative metabolites). The p-values are calculated assuming a common continuous strictly increasing cumulative distribution under the null hypothesis. This assumption is violated when zero-valued observations can occur with positive probability, a characteristic of GC-MS metabolomics data, disqualifying ERp in this context. This paper extends ERp to address two sources of zero-valued observations: (i) zeros reflecting the complete absence of a metabolite from a sample (true zeros); and (ii) zeros reflecting a measurement below the detection limit. This is achieved by allowing the null cumulative distribution function to take the form of a mixture between a jump at zero and a continuous strictly increasing function. The extended ERp approach is referred to as XERp. XERp is no longer non-parametric, but its null distributions depend only on one parameter, the true proportion of zeros. Under the null hypothesis this parameter can be estimated by the proportion of zeros in the available data. XERp is shown to perform well with regard to bias and power. To demonstrate the utility of XERp, it is applied to GC-MS data from a metabolomics study on tuberculosis meningitis in infants and children. We find that XERp is able to provide an informative shortlist of discriminatory variables, while attaining satisfactory classification accuracy for new subjects in a leave-one-out cross-validation context. XERp takes into account the distributional structure of data with a probability mass at zero without requiring any knowledge of the detection limit of the metabolomics platform. XERp is able to identify variables that discriminate between two groups by simultaneously extracting information from the difference in the proportion of zeros and shifts in the distributions of the non-zero observations. XERp uses simple rules to classify new subjects and a weight pair to adjust for unequal sample sizes or sensitivity and specificity requirements.

Quality Assurance and Quality Control, Part 2.

PubMed

Akers, Michael J

2015-01-01

The tragedy surrounding the New England Compounding Center and contaminated steroid syringe preparations clearly points out what can happen if quality-assurance and quality-control procedures are not strictly practiced in the compounding of sterile preparations. This article is part 2 of a two-part article on requirements to comply with United States Pharmacopeia general chapters <797> and <1163> with respect to quality assurance of compounded sterile preparations. Part 1 covered documentation requirements, inspection procedures, compounding accuracy checks, and part of a discussion on bacterial endotoxin testing. Part 2 covers sterility testing, the completion from part 1 on bacterial endotoxin testing, a brief dicussion of United States Pharmacopeia <1163>, and advances in pharmaceutical quality systems.

Control system and method for a power delivery system having a continuously variable ratio transmission

DOEpatents

Frank, A.A.

1984-07-10

A control system and method for a power delivery system, such as in an automotive vehicle, having an engine coupled to a continuously variable ratio transmission (CVT). Totally independent control of engine and transmission enable the engine to precisely follow a desired operating characteristic, such as the ideal operating line for minimum fuel consumption. CVT ratio is controlled as a function of commanded power or torque and measured load, while engine fuel requirements (e.g., throttle position) are strictly a function of measured engine speed. Fuel requirements are therefore precisely adjusted in accordance with the ideal characteristic for any load placed on the engine. 4 figs.

Production of non viral DNA vectors.

PubMed

Schleef, Martin; Blaesen, Markus; Schmeer, Marco; Baier, Ruth; Marie, Corinne; Dickson, George; Scherman, Daniel

2010-12-01

After some decades of research, development and first clinical approaches to use DNA vectors in gene therapy, cell therapy and DNA vaccination, the requirements for the pharmaceutical manufacturing of gene vectors has improved significantly step by step. Even the expression level and specificity of non viral DNA vectors were significantly modified and followed the success of viral vectors. The strict separation of "viral" and "non viral" gene transfer are historic borders between scientist and we will show that both fields together are able to allow the next step towards successful prevention and therapy. Here we summarize the features of producing and modifying these non-viral gene vectors to ensure the required quality to modify cells and to treat human and animals.

Coalescence and Collisions of Gold Nanoparticles

PubMed Central

Antúnez-García, Joel; Mejía-Rosales, Sergio; Pérez-Tijerina, Eduardo; Montejano-Carrizales, Juan Martín; José-Yacamán, Miguel

2011-01-01

We study the assembling of small gold clusters subject to collisions and close contact coalescence by using molecular dynamics simulations to simulate events that occur typically in the sputtering process of synthesis. Our results support the notion that the kinetics of coalescence processes strongly determine the geometry and structure of the final particle. While impact velocities, relative orientations, and the initial shape of the interacting particles are unlikely to strictly determine the structural details of the newly formed particle, we found that high initial temperatures and/or impact velocities increase the probability of appearance of icosahedral-like structures, Wulff polyhedra are likely to be formed as a product of the interactions between nanospheres, while the appearance of fcc particles of approximately cuboctahedral shape is mainly due to the interaction between icosahedra. PMID:28879995

Coalescence and Collisions of Gold Nanoparticles.

PubMed

Antúnez-García, Joel; Mejía-Rosales, Sergio; Pérez-Tijerina, Eduardo; Montejano-Carrizales, Juan Martín; José-Yacamán, Miguel

2011-01-28

We study the assembling of small gold clusters subject to collisions and close contact coalescence by using molecular dynamics simulations to simulate events that occur typically in the sputtering process of synthesis. Our results support the notion that the kinetics of coalescence processes strongly determine the geometry and structure of the final particle. While impact velocities, relative orientations, and the initial shape of the interacting particles are unlikely to strictly determine the structural details of the newly formed particle, we found that high initial temperatures and/or impact velocities increase the probability of appearance of icosahedral-like structures, Wulff polyhedra are likely to be formed as a product of the interactions between nanospheres, while the appearance of fcc particles of approximately cuboctahedral shape is mainly due to the interaction between icosahedra.

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO): A Systems Approach to a Complex Mission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ruffa, John A.; Ward, David K.; Bartusek, LIsa M.; Bay, Michael; Gonzales, Peter J.; Pesnell, William D.

2012-01-01

The Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) includes three advanced instruments, massive science data volume, stringent science data completeness requirements, and a custom ground station to meet mission demands. The strict instrument science requirements imposed a number of challenging drivers on the overall mission system design, leading the SDO team to adopt an integrated systems engineering presence across all aspects of the mission to ensure that mission science requirements would be met. Key strategies were devised to address these system level drivers and mitigate identified threats to mission success. The global systems engineering team approach ensured that key drivers and risk areas were rigorously addressed through all phases of the mission, leading to the successful SDO launch and on-orbit operation. Since launch, SDO's on-orbit performance has met all mission science requirements and enabled groundbreaking science observations, expanding our understanding of the Sun and its dynamic processes.

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO): A Systems Approach to a Complex Mission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ruffa, John A.; Ward, David K.; Bartusek, Lisa M.; Bay, Michael; Gonzales, Peter J.; Pesnell, William D.

2012-01-01

The Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) includes three advanced instruments, massive science data volume, stringent science data completeness requirements, and a custom ground station to meet mission demands. The strict instrument science requirements imposed a number of challenging drivers on the overall mission system design, leading the SDO team to adopt an integrated systems engineering presence across all aspects of the mission to ensure that mission science requirements would be met. Key strategies were devised to address these system level drivers and mitigate identified threats to mission success. The global systems engineering team approach ensured that key drivers and risk areas were rigorously addressed through all phases of the mission, leading to the successful SDO launch and on-orbit operation. Since launch, SDO s on-orbit performance has met all mission science requirements and enabled groundbreaking science observations, expanding our understanding of the Sun and its dynamic processes.

Phosphate forms an unusual tripodal complex with the Fe–Mn center of sweet potato purple acid phosphatase

PubMed Central

Schenk, Gerhard; Gahan, Lawrence R.; Carrington, Lyle E.; Mitić, Nataša; Valizadeh, Mohsen; Hamilton, Susan E.; de Jersey, John; Guddat, Luke W.

2005-01-01

Purple acid phosphatases (PAPs) are a family of binuclear metalloenzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of phosphoric acid esters and anhydrides. A PAP in sweet potato has a unique, strongly antiferromagnetically coupled Fe(III)–Mn(II) center and is distinguished from other PAPs by its increased catalytic efficiency for a range of activated and unactivated phosphate esters, its strict requirement for Mn(II), and the presence of a μ-oxo bridge at pH 4.90. This enzyme displays maximum catalytic efficiency (kcat/Km) at pH 4.5, whereas its catalytic rate constant (kcat) is maximal at near-neutral pH, and, in contrast to other PAPs, its catalytic parameters are not dependent on the pKa of the leaving group. The crystal structure of the phosphate-bound Fe(III)–Mn(II) PAP has been determined to 2.5-Å resolution (final Rfree value of 0.256). Structural comparisons of the active site of sweet potato, red kidney bean, and mammalian PAPs show several amino acid substitutions in the sweet potato enzyme that can account for its increased catalytic efficiency. The phosphate molecule binds in an unusual tripodal mode to the two metal ions, with two of the phosphate oxygen atoms binding to Fe(III) and Mn(II), a third oxygen atom bridging the two metal ions, and the fourth oxygen pointing toward the substrate binding pocket. This binding mode is unique among the known structures in this family but is reminiscent of phosphate binding to urease and of sulfate binding to λ protein phosphatase. The structure and kinetics support the hypothesis that the bridging oxygen atom initiates hydrolysis. PMID:15625111

Compaction and binding properties of the intrinsically disordered C-terminal domain of Henipavirus nucleoprotein as unveiled by deletion studies.

PubMed

Blocquel, David; Habchi, Johnny; Gruet, Antoine; Blangy, Stéphanie; Longhi, Sonia

2012-01-01

Henipaviruses are recently emerged severe human pathogens within the Paramyxoviridae family. Their genome is encapsidated by the nucleoprotein (N) within a helical nucleocapsid that recruits the polymerase complex via the phosphoprotein (P). We have previously shown that in Henipaviruses the N protein possesses an intrinsically disordered C-terminal domain, N(TAIL), which undergoes α-helical induced folding in the presence of the C-terminal domain (P(XD)) of the P protein. Using computational approaches, we previously identified within N(TAIL) four putative molecular recognition elements (MoREs) with different structural propensities, and proposed a structural model for the N(TAIL)-P(XD) complex where the MoRE encompassing residues 473-493 adopt an α-helical conformation at the P(XD) surface. In this work, for each N(TAIL) protein, we designed four deletion constructs bearing different combinations of the predicted MoREs. Following purification of the N(TAIL) truncated proteins from the soluble fraction of E. coli, we characterized them in terms of their conformational, spectroscopic and binding properties. These studies provided direct experimental evidence for the structural state of the four predicted MoREs, and showed that two of them have clear α-helical propensities, with the one spanning residues 473-493 being strictly required for binding to P(XD). We also showed that Henipavirus N(TAIL) and P(XD) form heterologous complexes, indicating that the P(XD) binding regions are functionally interchangeable between the two viruses. By combining spectroscopic and conformational analyses, we showed that the content in regular secondary structure is not a major determinant of protein compaction.

Probing function and structure of trehalose-6-phosphate phosphatases from pathogenic organisms suggests distinct molecular groupings.

PubMed

Cross, Megan; Lepage, Romain; Rajan, Siji; Biberacher, Sonja; Young, Neil D; Kim, Bo-Na; Coster, Mark J; Gasser, Robin B; Kim, Jeong-Sun; Hofmann, Andreas

2017-03-01

The trehalose biosynthetic pathway is of great interest for the development of novel therapeutics because trehalose is an essential disaccharide in many pathogens but is neither required nor synthesized in mammalian hosts. As such, trehalose-6-phosphate phosphatase (TPP), a key enzyme in trehalose biosynthesis, is likely an attractive target for novel chemotherapeutics. Based on a survey of genomes from a panel of parasitic nematodes and bacterial organisms and by way of a structure-based amino acid sequence alignment, we derive the topological structure of monoenzyme TPPs and classify them into 3 groups. Comparison of the functional roles of amino acid residues located in the active site for TPPs belonging to different groups reveal nuanced variations. Because current literature on this enzyme family shows a tendency to infer functional roles for individual amino acid residues, we investigated the roles of the strictly conserved aspartate tetrad in TPPs of the nematode Brugia malayi by using a conservative mutation approach. In contrast to aspartate-213, the residue inferred to carry out the nucleophilic attack on the substrate, we found that aspartate-215 and aspartate-428 of Bm TPP are involved in the chemistry steps of enzymatic hydrolysis of the substrate. Therefore, we suggest that homology-based inference of functionally important amino acids by sequence comparison for monoenzyme TPPs should only be carried out for each of the 3 groups.-Cross, M., Lepage, R., Rajan, S., Biberacher, S., Young, N. D., Kim, B.-N., Coster, M. J., Gasser, R. B., Kim, J.-S., Hofmann, A. Probing function and structure of trehalose-6-phosphate phosphatases from pathogenic organisms suggests distinct molecular groupings. © FASEB.

Continuous gradient temperature Raman spectroscopy of the long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids docosapentaenoic (DPA, 22:5n-6) and docosahexaenoic (DHA; 22:6n-3) from -100 to 20° C

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Broadhurst, C. Leigh; Schmidt, Walter F.; Kim, Moon S.; Nguyen, Julie K.; Qin, Jianwei; Chao, Kuanglin; Bauchan, Gary L.; Shelton, Daniel R.

2016-05-01

The structural, cognitive and visual development of the human brain and retina strictly require long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA). Excluding water, the mammalian brain is about 60% lipid. One of the great unanswered questions with respect to biological science in general is the absolute necessity of the LC-PUFA docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6n-3) in these fast signal processing tissues. A lipid of the same chain length with just one less diene group, docosapentaenoic acid (DPA; 22:5n-6) is fairly abundant in terrestrial food chains yet cannot substitute for DHA. Gradient Temperature Raman spectroscopy (GTRS) applies the temperature gradients utilized in differential scanning calorimetry to Raman spectroscopy, providing a straightforward technique to identify molecular rearrangements that occur near and at phase transitions. Herein we apply GTRS to DPA, and DHA from -100 to 20°C. 20 Mb three-dimensional data arrays with 1°C increments and first/second derivatives allows complete assignment of solid, liquid and transition state vibrational modes, including low intensity/frequency vibrations that cannot be readily analyzed with conventional Raman. DPA and DHA show significant spectral changes with premelting (-33 and -60°C, respectively) and melting (-27 and -44°C, respectively). The CH2-(HC=CH)-CH2 moieties are not identical in the second half of the DHA and DPA structures. The DHA molecule contains major CH2 twisting (1265 cm-1) with no noticeable CH2 bending, consistent with a flat helical structure with small pitch. Further modeling of neuronal membrane phospholipids must take into account this structure for DHA, which would be configured parallel to the hydrophilic head group line.

Improved growth response of antibody/receptor chimera attained by the engineering of transmembrane domain.

PubMed

Kawahara, Masahiro; Ogo, Yuko; Ueda, Hiroshi; Nagamune, Teruyuki

2004-10-01

Structure-based design of antibody/cytokine receptor chimeras has permitted a growth signal transduction in response to non-natural ligands such as fluorescein-conjugated BSA as mimicry of cytokine-cytokine receptor systems. However, while tight on/off regulation is observed in the natural cytokine receptor systems, many chimeras constructed to date showed residual growth-promoting activity in the absence of ligands. Here we tried to reduce the basal growth signal intensity from a chimera by engineering the transmembrane domain (TM) that is thought to be involved in the interchain interaction of natural cytokine receptors. When the retroviral vectors encoding the chimeras with either the wild-type erythropoietin receptor (EpoR) TM or the one bearing two mutations in the leucine zipper motif were transduced to non-strictly interleukin-6-dependent 7TD1 cells, a tight antigen-dependent on/off regulation was attained, also demonstrating the first antigen-mediated genetically modified cell amplification of non-strictly factor-dependent cells. The results clearly indicate that the TM mutation is an effective means to improve the growth response of the antibody/receptor chimera.

Parental factors and adolescents' smoking behavior: an extension of The theory of planned behavior.

PubMed

Harakeh, Zeena; Scholte, Ron H J; Vermulst, Ad A; de Vries, Hein; Engels, Rutger C M E

2004-11-01

The aim of the present study is to investigate whether general parenting factors (i.e., quality parent-child relationship, psychological control, strict control, parental knowledge) and parental smoking add to The theory of planned behaviour [Organ Behav. Hum. Dec. 50 (1991) 179] in predicting the onset of smoking. A mediation model is applied in which parental factors affect smoking behavior indirectly by affecting smoking cognitions (i.e., attitude, self-efficacy, and social norm). The model was tested in a longitudinal study on 1,070 adolescents, aged 10-14 years old. Structural equation models (SEM) on current and on future smoking behavior were tested. The findings showed that the quality of the parent-child relationship and parental knowledge affected adolescents' smoking behavior indirectly, while parental smoking behavior had a direct effect. Strict control and psychological control were found to be unrelated to adolescents' smoking onset. In prevention campaigns, parents should be informed of the extent to which they exert influence on their child's smoking behavior and should be given advice and information on how they can prevent their children from starting to smoke.

Cenozoic erosion of the Transantarctic Mountains: A source-to-sink thermochronological study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zattin, M.; Pace, D.; Andreucci, B.; Rossetti, F.; Talarico, F. M.

2014-09-01

The formation of the Transantarctic Mountains (TAM) is strictly related to the evolution of the West Antarctic Rift system, but the timing of their exhumation is still not fully assessed. In this work, we provide new apatite fission-track data collected on the region between the Royal Society Range and the Britannia Range. Cooling ages are late Eocene-Oligocene in the center of the region but they get older both northwards and southwards. We infer that exhumation was strictly controlled by TAM-parallel fault strands that were active after the Oligocene. The Royal Society Range and the Britannia Range represent transition zones corresponding to transverse structures, probably inherited from early basement crustal discontinuities and reactivated as transfer regions during rift propagation. The exhumation of the investigated region has been then modeled and predicted thermochronological ages have been compared with detrital data from the Miocene sedimentary succession drilled in the Victoria Land Basin. Results indicate that this sector of the TAM is the most probable candidate for the source of sediments and that during the Neogene 3 km (but up to 5 km) of rocks was exhumed.

The effect of gun control laws on hospital admissions for children in the United States.

PubMed

Tashiro, Jun; Lane, Rebecca S; Blass, Lawrence W; Perez, Eduardo A; Sola, Juan E

2016-10-01

Gun control laws vary greatly between states within the United States. We hypothesized that states with strict gun laws have lower mortality and resource utilization rates from pediatric firearms-related injury admissions. Kids' Inpatient Database (1997-2012) was searched for accidental (E922), self-inflicted (E955), assault (E965), legal intervention-related (E970), or undetermined circumstance (E985) firearm injuries. Patients were younger than 20 years and admitted for their injuries. Case incidence trends were examined for the study period. Propensity score-matched analyses were performed using 38 covariates to compare outcomes between states with strict or lenient gun control laws. Overall, 38,424 cases were identified, with an overall mortality of 7%. Firearm injuries were most commonly assault (64%), followed by accidental (25%), undetermined circumstance (7%), or self-inflicted (3%). A small minority involved military-grade weapons (0.2%). Most cases occurred in lenient gun control states (48%), followed by strict (47%) and neutral (6%).On 1:1 propensity score-matched analysis, in-hospital mortality by case was higher in lenient (7.5%) versus strict (6.5%) states, p = 0.013. Lenient states had a proportionally higher rate of accidental (31%) and self-inflicted injury (4%) versus strict states (17% and 1.6%, respectively), p < 0.001. Assault-related injuries were proportionally lower in lenient (54%) versus strict (75%) states, p < 0.001. Military-grade weapons were more common in lenient (0.4%) versus strict (0.1%) states, p = 0.001. These findings highlight the importance of legislative measures and their role in injury prevention, as firearm injuries are entirely avoidable mechanisms of injury. Lenient gun control contributes not only to worse outcomes per case, but also to a more significant and detrimental impact on public health. Epidemiologic study, level III.

Influence of temperature, pH and dissolved oxygen concentration on enhanced biological phosphorus removal under strictly aerobic conditions.

PubMed

Nittami, Tadashi; Oi, Hiroshi; Matsumoto, Kanji; Seviour, Robert J

2011-12-15

Previous research has suggested that enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR) from wastewater can be achieved under continuous aerobic conditions over the short term. However, little is known how environmental conditions might affect aerobic EBPR performance. Consequently we have investigated the impact of temperature, pH and dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations on EBPR performance under strictly aerobic conditions. A sequencing batch reactor (SBR) was operated for 108 days on a six-hour cycle (four cycles a day). The SBR ran under alternating anaerobic-aerobic conditions as standard and then operated under strictly aerobic conditions for one cycle every three or four days. SBR operational temperature (10, 15, 20, 25 and 30°C), pH (6, 7, 8 and 9) and DO concentration (0.5, 2.0 and 3.5mg/L) were changed consecutively during the aerobic cycle. Recorded increases in mixed liquor phosphorus (P) concentrations during aerobic carbon source uptake (P release) were affected by the biomass P content rather than the imposed changes in the operational conditions. Thus, P release levels increased with biomass P content. By contrast, subsequent aerobic P assimilation (P uptake) levels were both affected by changes in operational temperature and pH, and peaked at 20-25°C and pH 7-8. Highest P uptake detected under these SBR operating conditions was 15.4 mg Pg-MLSS(-1) (at 25°C, pH 7 and DO 2.0mg/L). The ability of the community for linked aerobic P release and P uptake required the presence of acetate in the medium, a finding which differs from previous data, where these are reported to occur in the absence of any exogenous carbon source. Fluorescence in situ hybridization was performed on samples collected from the SBR, and Candidatus 'Accumulibacter phosphatis' cells were detected with PAOmix probes through the operational periods. Thus, Candidatus 'Accumulibacter phosphatis' seemed to perform P removal in the SBR as shown in previous studies on P removal under strictly aerobic conditions. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

National Academy of Sciences-Academy of Sciences of the USSR Workshop on the Mechanics of Ice and Its Applications Held in Moscow and Leningrad on June 16-26, 1991

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-01-01

interaction: Ice forces on offshore structures were reviewed. Presentations were given on practices employed in the United States to derive ice design ...Mechanics Workshop, four days were strictly devoted to presentaticns. ’he American presentations were quite varied with heavy eaphasis on experimental and...institute coducts investigaticrs that contribute to specific ship designs , but does not do the actual designs itself. Similarly, Krylov cmVIucts

Maximizing results for lipofilling in facial reconstruction.

PubMed

Barret, Juan P; Sarobe, Neus; Grande, Nelida; Vila, Delia; Palacin, Jose M

2009-07-01

Lipostructure (also known as structural fat grafts, lipofilling, or fat grafting) has become a technique with a good reputation and reproducible results. The application of this technology in patients undergoing reconstruction is a novel surgical alternative. Obtaining good results in this patient population is very difficult, but the application of small fat grafts with a strict Coleman technique produces long-term cosmetic effects. Adult-derived stem cells have been pointed out as important effectors of this regenerative technology, and future research should focus in this direction.

Whither or wither geomicrobiology in the era of 'community metagenomics'

USGS Publications Warehouse

Oremland, R.S.; Capone, D.G.; Stolz, J.F.; Fuhrman, J.

2005-01-01

Molecular techniques are valuable tools that can improve our understanding of the structure of microbial communities. They provide the ability to probe for life in all niches of the biosphere, perhaps even supplanting the need to cultivate microorganisms or to conduct ecophysiological investigations. However, an overemphasis and strict dependence on such large information-driven endeavours as environmental metagenomics could overwhelm the field, to the detriment of microbial ecology. We now call for more balanced, hypothesis-driven research efforts that couple metagenomics with classic approaches.