cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Endocrine Regulation of Echinoid Reproduction

Abstract Environmental cues have long been correlated to reproductive events in echinoids. However, how those cues are transduced to chemical messengers within the echinoid gonads and gut to regulate gametogenesis and nutrient storage throughout the annual reproductive cycle remains unknown. In vertebrates, regulation of reproduction and gametogenesis involves complex pathways that include steroids, proteins and peptides. Such chemical messengers may play roles in echinoid reproduction and gametogenesis. We summarize the current knowledge of these putative chemical messengers in echinoids, and their potential roles in regulating reproduction. Since vertebrate endocrine pathways can be influenced by synthetic chemicals that interact antagonistically or agonistically with cell receptors, we also describe the morphologic and biochemical effects of some endocrine disruptors on echinoid reproduction and gametogenesis.
Application of the Method of Cumulants for Interacting Brownian Particle Systems

Colloidal suspensions of charged macromolecules at low ionic strength may show strong interactions between particles, even when particle separations are on the order of the wavelength of light. Several investigators1–3 have measured the static structure factor, G(k, 0), and cumulants, Kn, for these systems by mean intensity and intensity correlation experiments, respectively.
Ultrasonic Attenuation in Duplex Titanium Alloys

It is well known that the microstructure can affect a propagating ultrasonic beam. For example, the microstructure can backscatter energy, creating noise which masks signals from small flaws. In addition, a flaw signal can be attenuated by absorption and scattering of energy. These effects can have deleterious effects on flaw detection and characterization. In addition, due to the link between backscattered grain noise, attenuation and the microstructure, measurement of these ultrasonic quantities can be used as accurate materials characterization tools if appropriate models exist. For example, Han and Thompson [1] have modeled grain noise backscattered from elongated macrograins with duplex microstructures as is commonly found in titanium alloys, allowing the prediction of backscattered grain noise as a function of frequency. In principle, it should be possible to determine grain size and shape from an experimental measurement of backscattered grain noise using their theory.
R&D and the High Cash Holdings in the U.S.

This paper re-examines the factors that have contributed to the dramatic increase in the average cash-to-assets ratio in U.S. firms since 1980. The analysis first shows that this increase is driven almost entirely by the increase in cash-to-assets ratio of R&D intensive firms. Second, the biggest increase in cash holdings over the last three decades has been concentrated in financially constrained R&D intensive firms in competitive industries with volatile cash flows. Third, using exogenous variation in competition, the evidence supports that intensified global-wide competition significantly contributes to the increased cash holdings of R&D firms, but not constrained non-R&D firms. Fourth, this R&D-driven cash phenomenon is robust across groups of firms, and thus is not industry-specific. Finally, the data provides little support for the reduction in debt capacity as a potential explanation for the linkage between R&D and cash. Overall, this work suggests that the cash holdings puzzle might be driven by a key mechanism — a revolution of financing among R&D intensive firms confronted with increasingly intensified competition.
Immunochemical studies of human erythrocyte proteins: erythrocuprein and catalase.

Abstract The immunochemical properties of chromatographically prepared human erythrocuprein differ from those of the chloroform-ethanol-treated protein. Losses of copper also appear to modify its immunochemical reactivity. The result of the immunochemical reactions of rabbit antibody to human erythrocuprein with human liver and brain extracts suggests a common antigen in the two tissues. Human erythrocyte catalase is not immunochemically identical with human liver catalase. Rabbit antisera to erythrocyte catalase fail to precipitate with hemolysates from some higher primates but give a cross-reaction with lysates from the cat and pig. Human erythrocuprein antisera give a cross-reaction only with hemolysate from the higher primates.
μdroPi: A Hand-Held Microfluidic Droplet Imager and Analyzer Built on Raspberry Pi

We built a low-cost and hand-held device to image and analyze microfluidic droplets mainly for educational/teaching purposes in laboratory settings of universities. The device was assembled based on a Raspberry Pi with a camera attached on the back and an LCD screen on the top. We evaluated the performance of this device to capture images and videos to visualize high-throughput droplet generation in a microfluidic device. The qualities of imaging resolution and speed were sufficient for us to perform subsequent droplet analysis quantitatively through automatic image possessing. Droplet characteristics including droplet size, volume, and dispersity, as well as droplet intensity, have been measured, showing the potential of this device to analyze droplet-based assays. Most importantly, in addition to learning the knowledge and principles from classroom lectures, students can thus gain practice of using an advanced, state-of-the-art technology in a laboratory course. It will also open up opportunities to train students with skills of interdisciplinary thinking and learning.
Evidenced-Based Thinking for Scientific Thinking

This chapter presents a framework for teaching evidenced-based thinking as an integral component of critical thinking, which is a critical foundation of scientific thinking. A qualitative case study is described during which the instructors implemented a typology of five types of evidence: Statistical, qualitative, anecdotal, legal, and expert opinion. By using this typology, students effectively described types of evidence, used evidence to support their arguments, combined them to promote their claims, and became more sceptical of information. These findings provide insights into students’ process of evidenced-based thinking. Ultimately, this research provides insight and guidance for instructors who wish to improve students’ scientific thinking.
International students’ reading digital texts on tablets: experiences and strategies

This multiple case study investigated four university-level international students’ reading of digital texts on tablets. The study describes these students’ experiences with and strategies for mobile reading. The participants were four international students in the United States, and their first language (L1) was not English. The data were collected through observations, verbal reports, interviews, and field notes. The findings showed that participants had both positive and negative experiences using tablets for reading and that mobile reading facilitated their learning about their lives, language, culture, and technology. The study shows that the participants used six reading strategies: (a) setting up the purpose, (b) deciding what to read, (c) accessing a digital text, (d) dialoguing, (e) making a connection, and (f) using applications and digital literacy skills. The article discusses mobile reading, with a focus on strategies, affordances and processes, as well as cultural learning and empowerment.
Metabolic Rewiring in Response to Biguanides Is Mediated by mROS/HIF-1a in Malignant Lymphocytes

Metabolic flexibility allows cells to adapt to various environments and limits the efficacy of metabolic drugs. Therapeutic targeting of cancer metabolism relies on defining limiting requirements and vulnerabilities in the highly dynamic metabolic network. Here, we characterize the metabolic reprogramming and identify cancer-specific metabolic vulnerabilities in response to the pharmacological inhibition of mitochondrial complex I. Our work reveals the adaptation mechanism in malignant lymphocytes providing resistance against the biguanides phenformin and metformin by transcriptionally reprogramming glucose metabolism. Metabolic adaptation to complex I inhibition is mediated by mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mROS) serving as a mitochondrial stress signal activating hypoxia-inducible factor-1a (HIF-1a). Inhibition of the mROS/HIF-1a axis through antioxidants or direct suppression of HIF-1a selectively disrupts metabolic adaptation and survival during complex I dysfunction in malignant lymphocytes. Our results identify HIF-1a signaling as a critical factor in resistance against biguanide-induced mitochondrial dysfunction, allowing selective targeting of metabolic pathways in leukemia and lymphoma.
Numerical simulations of the geospace response to the arrival of an idealized perfect interplanetary coronal mass ejection

Understanding extreme space weather events in terms of the geospace response is a critical step towards protecting vulnerable technological infrastructure. This is particularly relevant for the eff...
Evaluation and Development of Methodologies for the Synthesis of Thiophosphinic Acids

Thiophosphorus acids R1R2P(S)OH constitute an important class of organophosphorus compounds, in which the phosphorus atom is intrinsically chiral if R1 ≠ R2. In connection with a project aimed at the preparation of chiral thiophosphorus acids, various available literature methods were considered, but few fit the requirement of odorless reagents. Herein, the results of our studies on the synthesis of thiophosphinic acids are reported. Ultimately, two major approaches were selected: (1) the Stec reaction of phosphorus amides with carbon disulfide; and (2) the one-pot synthesis of thiophosphorus acids from H-phosphinates, an organometallic nucleophile, and quenching with elemental sulfur. An application to the preparation of a potential chiral phosphorus organocatalyst is also reported.
Implementation of COVID-19 Provider Resource Task Force: A provider support initiative during emergency preparedness in a quaternary-care center in western Michigan.

OBJECTIVE: COVID-19 has placed an immense pressure on the healthcare systems across the world regarding development of protocols and initiatives to mitigate the spread Clinicians are coping with enormous challenges to their professional commitment and the need to support them has risen more than ever during these unprecedented times DESIGN: We describe a support initiative implemented by Spectrum Health, a quaternary center in West Michigan to support providers across the community COVID-19 Provider resource support tool helped clinicians across multiple other systems in the region with real time information about COVID-19 METHOD: A COVID-19 provider resource workgroup was created with 18 physicians who volunteered to receive calls and emails from providers across the region over 8 weeks The group aimed to be the real-time COVID-19 resource while clinicians are facing the pandemic in an ever-changing environment CONCLUSION: Providers have not faltered to embrace new responsibilities, implementing protocols and coaching their colleagues in response to COVID-19 Support initiatives like these while essential to maintain psychosocial health of the clinicians also reveals the true strength of professionalism amidst the pandemic
Assessment of physical function by subjective and objective methods in patients undergoing open gynecologic surgery.

Abstract Objective To evaluate the utility of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) to measure physical functioning in perioperative care for patients with gynecological (GYN) tumors. Methods 180 patients with GYN tumors undergoing open surgery participated in this longitudinal study. The physical functioning was measured by a subjective PRO tool, the Interference subscales of the MD Anderson Symptom Inventory (MDASI-I); as well as by an objective tool, the Timed Up & Go test (TUGT), perioperatively. Longer time (>20 s) needed to complete the TUGT was defined as “Prolonged”. Patients completed EuroQoL-5D as well. The association between the scores of MDASI-I items and TUGT was assessed via the Spearman correlation coefficient. The known-group validity was assessed using the t-test and Cohen's D effect size. Results Compliance rates at preoperative, discharge and postoperative time points of MDASI-I were 98%, 95%, 96%; while TUGT completion rates were 92%, 75%, and 80%, respectively. Patients who had refused TUGT at discharge reported a significantly worse “MDASI-general activity” score compared to patients who completed TUGT (mean score of 7.00 vs. 5.38, P = 0.020). Patient-reported “Walking” on MDASI-I significantly differentiated patients with prolonged vs. those with frail/normal TUGT at discharge (mean score of 4.89 vs. 2.79, Cohen's d effect size = 0.82, P Conclusion Patient-reported physical functioning impairment after GYN surgery correspond with observed worse scores of the objective functioning measure test (TUGT). MDASI-I assessment represents a feasible and valid tool to evaluate functional status and warrants further implementation in the perioperative setting.
Secure Antenna Polarization Modulation Line-of-Sight Analysis and Demonstration

Secure antenna polarization modulation, or SAPM, is a method for increasing security at the physical layer via spatial signal distortion. We derive its expected performance in additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN) channels with the goals of establishing theoretical limits and comparing them to other techniques in a controlled environment. The theory is verified with measurements from a proof-of-concept system, and security is evaluated using information beamwidths calculated from error probability overlook angle. Results indicate that, when compared to conventional methods and keeping the hardware consistent, SAPM has a much narrower angular range of demodulation around the intended receiver—often by over 20°, depending on the receiver’s error rate threshold. Different system configurations are explored in this work, including a variety of power allocations and orders of modulation, as well as the effect of antenna design. In all cases, SAPM shows the potential to significantly improve wireless security over other techniques. These findings provide the foundation and motivation for future characterization in practical channels.
Communicating Emotion: Social, Moral, and Cultural Processes

The modern world is forcing us to understand emotion in order to cope with new problems such as road rage and epidemic levels of depression, as well as age-old problems such as homicide, genocide and racial tension. At the same time, scholarly research is leading us to appreciate how emotion helps us to understand and transcend our selfish interests, to connect with others, to feel what is just and moral, and not just think it, and to construct societies and cultures that govern our joint efforts. This book draws upon scholarly research to address, explain and legitimize the role that emotion plays in everyday interaction and in many of the pressing social, moral, and cultural issues that we face today.
On minimal scalings of scalable frames

A tight frame in Rn is a redundant system which has a reconstruction formula similar to that of an orthonormal basis. For a unit-norm frame F = {f i }k i=1 , a scaling is a vector c = (c(l),…, c(k)) e Rk≥0 such that {c(i)f i }k i=1 is a tight frame in Rn. If a scaling c exists, we say that F is a scalable frame. A scaling c is a minimal scaling if {fi : c{i) > 0} has no proper scalable subframes. In this paper, we present the uniqueness of the orthogonal partitioning property of any set of minimal scalings and provide a construction of scalable frames by extending the standard orthonormal basis of Rn.
193 CHARACTERIZATION OF PORCINE TROPHECTODERM-DERIVED CELLS IN THE PRESENCE OF HBMP4 IN THE ABSENCE OF A FEEDER LAYER

A porcine trophoblastic cell line could provide a powerful model for understanding trophoblast cell biology as well as placental gene expression and proteomics in vitro. In this experiment, we derived porcine trophoblastic cells from trophectoderm tissue and assessed their growth on three different extracellular matrix substrates and in three different concentrations of human recombinant bone morphogenetic protein 4 (hBMP4). Human BMP4 has been shown to induce differentiation of human embryonic stem cells into trophoblast lineages. Elongated embryos were flushed using DPBS supplemented with 1% fetal calf serum and penicillin-streptomycin (1X) from the hysterectomized uteri of superovulated and bred prepuberal gilts 15 days post-insemination. The embryonic disc was visualized with a dissecting microscope. The trophectoderm tissue was cut 2–3 mm away from the embryonic disc with a scalpel and the trophectoderm tissue was manually dissected into cell aggregates. These aggregates were plated on collagen type IV, Matrigel, and human extracellular matrix (laminin, collagen type IV and heparan sulfate proteoglycan derived from human placenta) in culture medium (DMEM with 15% FCS, 0.1 mM 2-mercaptoethanol, 4 ng mL−1 basic FGF4 and 1X P/S) in the presence or absence of hBMP4 at 0, 10, or 20 ng mL−1. Cell outgrowth was observed within 24 hours of culture. After three days of culture, various cell types (based on size and morphology) were present. Among cultures of predominant large cells were colonies of smaller cells with epithelial-type morphology that had a prominent nucleus and a high nuclear-to-cytoplasmic ratio. The epithelial-type cells grew in tight colonies with definite borders and contained cytoplasmic structures resembling lipid-containing vesicles. These colonies initially appeared on all matrices across all hBMP4 concentrations. After seven days in culture the colonies developed distinct differences across groups. Cell growth on collagen was comprised of tight colonies having definite borders among large cells. Colonies on collagen were larger and more pronounced in both the hBMP4-supplemented groups than when cultured without hBMP4. The Matrigel coated plates contained large sheets of epithelial-type cell growth instead of compact colonies. This type of growth characteristic was present in all hBMP4 treatments on Matrigel. In contrast, few cells survived and propagated on human extracellular matrix. Only small colonies having the desired morphology were among the large cells on human extracellular matrix when cultured in medium containing 10 ng mL−1 hBMP4. Cells were passaged and only cells growing on Matrigel could be further cultured. These data suggest that both the cell substrate and hBMP4 affect initial trophoblast outgrowths. Further analysis including immunocytochemistry and RT-PCR is currently being performed to better characterize these cells. Epidemiology/Diseases
Biosimilar Law and Regulation: An Essential Guide

This monograph provides a primer on key legal, scientific, regulatory, and policy issues faced by FDA and stakeholders as the agency implements the Biologics Price Competition and Innovation Act of 2009. It provides historical background on federal regulation of biological drugs since 1902 and a history of FDA's views and positions on biosimilars including during the legislative process from 2006 to 2010. In addition to discussing the regulatory and patent provisions of the law, it delves into the questions raised by FDA and the positions that had been taken by stakeholders to date. The author does not, in this monograph, take a position on any of the issues in question.
The dynamic simulation model and parameter identification method of DFIG type wind generator for power system electro-mechanic simulation

The double-fed inductor generator (DFIG) is one important type of wind generator. Because of high percentage of wind energy, it is necessary to build accurate wind generator model and parameters for power system electro-mechanic simulation. The paper mainly presents the simulation model and parameter identification method of DFIG type wind generators. For power system transient simulation, the characteristic related to low voltage ride-through (LVRT) is most important, and the model related to LVRT is mainly presented. The parameters of the model are divided into three types and use different identification method. The identification method of important parameters is mainly presented. One actual wind generator is used as an example to explain the identification process and testify the validity of the model.
Load balancing heuristics for dynamic establishment of restorable lightpaths

Efficient lightpath provisioning for dynamic traffic is an important issue in WDM optical networks. Meanwhile, in order for a lightpath to survive a network failure, both a primary lightpath and a backup lightpath need to be found for each demand. A demand is blocked if either cannot be provided. We identify 2 blocking types, and then three heuristic ideas are proposed to exploit the wavelength usage information and to use link channels more evenly across the network, leading to a lower blocking probability. Simulation shows that the load balancing routing algorithm (LBA), with our heuristic cost functions for primary path selection and backup path selection, achieves performance comparable to that of the centralized algorithm (CA). However, LBA asks for much less information to be disseminated, and therefore is more scalable.
Copper in mammalian reproduction

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the copper in mammalian reproduction. Although copper has long been known to be involved in reproductive processes, interest has increased considerably because of the clinical application of the copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD). It consists of a small plastic T-shaped device or 7-shaped device, the stem of which is wrapped with copper wire. The contraceptive efficacy of the Cu-IUD is far greater than that of the plastic device alone. Intrauterine devices have certain advantages over other methods of contraception. Unlike other forms of reversible contraception the IUD does not require continuing motivation. Its insertion requires trained personnel. The effect of the IUD is primarily local and the device does not upset the overall hormonal status. The most common side effects of IUDs are pain and bleeding. Bleeding induced by IUDs can be more than twice that of normal menstrual bleeding. The best time for insertion of an IUD is during menses. This insures that the woman is not pregnant. Often IUDs are inserted postabortum. For insertion postpartum, the best time is six weeks after birth. Immediate postpartum insertion results in frequent expulsions—up to six weeks postpartum the uterus is still soft and perforations could easily take place.
Quality of pharmacists' documentations in patients' medical records

Training pharmacists to appropriately document patient-specific problems and recommendations in patients' medical records and subsequent monitoring of pharmacist-written documentation are described. The medical staff of a tertiary care teaching hospital recommended that pharmacists be allowed to write in the permanent portion of patients' medical records. A six-month pilot program was approved to train pharmacists in writing chart notes. Notes would be assessed according to the following criteria: necessity (i.e., a chart note was the appropriate means of communication), clarity, legibility, completeness, correct format, and lack of judgmental language. Initial training was by physicians from the pharmacy and therapeutics committee, with more extensive training by a committee composed of clinical and administrative pharmacists. After training ended, each pharmacist's first few notes were reviewed by a member of the pharmacy committee. The quality of pharmacist-written notes is reviewed quarterly. The first quarterly evaluation and another review 1 1/2 years later showed that all pharmacist notes met all of the established criteria. A multidisciplinary approach was effective in training pharmacists to document interventions appropriately in patients' permanent records. Ongoing monitoring ensures the continuing quality of such documentation.
Phase I/II study of azacitidine, docetaxel, and prednisone in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer previously treated with docetaxel-based therapy.

Abstract Introduction Methylation-mediated silencing of genes contributes to docetaxel resistance in prostate cancer. We propose that azacitidine, a demethylating agent, can reverse docetaxel resistance. Patients and Methods Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) patients, who progressed during or within 6 months of docetaxel chemotherapy, were eligible. Fifteen and 7 patients were treated in phase I and II, respectively. In phase I, azacitidine and docetaxel were alternately escalated in a standard 3 + 3 design. All patients received prednisone 5 mg twice daily continuously. Patients were evaluated for toxicity and efficacy. Growth arrest and DNA damage-inducible alpha (GADD45A) methylation was measured before and after azacitidine treatment in the first cycle in phase I patients. Results In phase I, no dose-limiting toxicity was observed. At the highest dose (azacitidine 150 mg/m 2 daily for 5 days followed by docetaxel 75 mg/m 2 on day 6), Grade 4 neutropenia was frequent, but infrequent with growth factor. Six patients in the phase II study received the highest dose including growth factor support. The sixth phase II patient died because of neutropenic sepsis. After data and safety monitoring board review, the phase II dose was reduced to azacitidine 75 mg/m 2 daily for 5 days followed by docetaxel 75 mg/m 2 on day 6 with growth factor support. Prostate-specific antigen response was seen in 10 of 19 evaluable patients and objective response was observed in 3 of 10 evaluable patients. Significant demethylation of GADD45A was observed with azacitidine treatment. Conclusion The combination of azacitidine, docetaxel, and prednisone with growth factor support is active in mCRPC patients.
Is There a c Theorem in Four-Dimensions?

Abstract The difficulties of extending Zamolodchikov's c -theorem to dimensions d ≠ 2 are discussed. It is shown that, for d even, the one-point function of the trace of the stress tensor on the sphere, S d , when suitably regularized, defines a c -function, which, at least to one loop order, is decreasing along RG trajectories and is stationary at RG fixed points, where it is proportional to the usual conformal anomaly. It is shown that the existence of such a c -function, if it satisfies these properties to all orders, is consistent with the expected behavior of QCD in four dimensions.
Regional, segmental, and temporal heterogeneity of cerebral vascular autoregulation.

Autoregulation of cerebral blood flow is heterogeneous in several ways: regional, segmental, and temporal. We have found regional heterogeneity of the autoregulatory response during both acute reductions and increases in systemic arterial presure. Changes in blood flow are less in brain stem than in cerebrum during decreases and increases in cerebral perfusion pressure. Segmental heterogeneity of autoregulation has been demonstrated in two ways. Direct determination of segmental cerebral vascular resistance indicates that, while small cerebral vessels ( 200 μm) becomes increasingly important to the autoregulatory response at pressures above 100 mm Hg. Measurement of changes in diameter of pial vessels has shown that, during acute hypotension, autoregulation occurs predominantly in small resistance vessels (<100 μm). Finally, there is temporal heterogeneity of autoregulation. Sudden increases in arterial pressure produce transient increases in blood flow, which are not observed under steady-state conditions. In addition, the blood-brain barrier is more susceptible to hypertensive disruption after rapid, compared to step-wise, increases in arterial pressure. Thus, when investigating cerebral vascular autoregulation, regional, segmental, and temporal differences in the autoregulatory response must be taken into consideration.
THE BREEDING SYSTEM OF OXALIS SUKSDORFII

Flowers of the 3 kinds of plants present in natural populations differ in style length, stamen length, pollen size, stigma size and orientation, and stylar pubescence. Experimental studies and field observations indicate that plants with long-styled flowers are weakly self-compatible and show little differentiation in size or compatibility relationships of pollen from the 2 sets of stamens. Plants with mid-styled flowers have strongly differentiated pollen, but produce few capsules or seed after any artificial or natural pollinations. Plants with short-styled flowers are self-incompatible and show slight pollen differentiation. The data presented suggest that 0. suksdorfii approaches functional dimorphism since the mid-styled form contributes little pollen and few seeds in sexual reproduction. The species may be in the process of losing the mid-styled form completely and provides a model of certain physiological and morphological changes which may have accompanied elimination of the mid-styled form in other Oxalis species. The abundance of plants with mid-styled flowers in natural populations suggests, however, that this form may be retained because it contributes to general population fitness, or because the genetic control of heterostyly in this species prevents its elimination.
Complete atrioventricular block with ventricular asystole following infusion of intravenous phenytoin

A case of complete atrioventricular block with ventricular asystole in a patient receiving intravenous phenytoin is presented. Although the potential for hypotension is generally recognized with the intravenous administration of phenytoin, conduction abnormalities are rarely reported. The differential diagnosis of atrioventricular block and the effects of phenytoin on cardiac conduction are discussed.
Impacts of wind energy assessed

By 2020, greater use of wind energy could reduce carbon dioxide emissions by the U.S. energy sector by about 4.5%. However, greater effort is needed to address potentially negative impacts of this growing energy source, according to a new report from a committee of the U.S. National Research Council. Potential impacts of wind energy projects include deaths of birds and bats, reduced value of property located near a turbine, and habitat loss and fragmentation. However, because these are generally local projects, there is little information available to determine the cumulative effects of wind turbines over a whole region.The report makes several recommendations on how to improve regulation at the local, state, and federal levels. The report also sets out a guide for evaluating wind-energy projects, which includes questions about potential environmental, economic, cultural, and aesthetic impacts. The report,“Environmental Impacts of Wind-Energy Projects,” is available at http://books.nap.edu/catalog.php7record_id=11935
Evaluation of commercial ginkgo and echinacea dietary supplements for colchicine using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry.

In response to concerns that commercial dietary supplements containing Ginkgo biloba (ginkgo) and Echinacea purpurea, Echinacea angustifolia, or Echinacea pallida (echinacea) might be contaminated ...
Comparison of the role of the subcutaneous tissues in cutaneous wound healing in the dog and cat.

Objective— To describe and compare the contribution of the subcutaneous tissues to 1st and 2nd intention cutaneous wound healing in the dog and cat. Study Design— Experimental study. Animals— Domestic shorthaired cats (n=6) and 6 beagle dogs. Methods— Paired wounds were created on either side of the dorsal midline; the subcutaneous tissue was removed on 1 side and left intact on the other. Square, open wounds of the dorsal aspect of the thorax were observed for 21 days to monitor granulation tissue formation, wound contraction, epithelialization, and total healing (contraction+epithelialization). Breaking strength of sutured linear wounds was measured 7 days after wounding. Laser-Doppler perfusion imaging (LDPI) was used to measure cutaneous perfusion. Results— First intention healing: subcutaneous tissue removal had no consistent effect on sutured wound strength at 7 days in dogs or cats. Second intention healing: removal of subcutaneous tissue reduced wound perfusion, granulation, contraction, epithelialization, and total healing. Granulation tissue formation and wound contraction were delayed to a significantly greater degree in cats than in dogs (P<.05). Two dogs (33%) had minor wound infections. Conclusions— The subcutaneous tissues make an important contribution to 2nd intention cutaneous healing. Dog and cat wounds had delayed 2nd intention healing when subcutaneous tissues were removed; wounds in dogs, but not cats, had largely recovered from this delay by 21 days. Clinical Relevance— Extensive debridement of subcutaneous tissue may delay wound healing particularly in feline patients. A higher risk for wound infections may accompany extensive removal of subcutaneous tissues in dogs.
Voltage‐Clamp Recordings from Identified Dissociated Neuroendocrine Cells of the Adult Rat Supraoptic Nucleus

In vitro intracellular recordings of membrane potential obtained from the oxytocin and vasopressin neurons of the mammalian hypothalamo-neurohypophysial system in slices (1-3) and expiants (4, 5) have demonstrated many of the intrinsic properties of these magnocellular neuroendocrine cells (MNCs). Voltage-clamp techniques, which are required to study directly the currents underlying intrinsic or transmitter-evoked potential changes, have been applied to cultured embryonic (6) or neonatal supraoptic neurons (7-9) and have been successfully applied to adult supraoptic neurons in situ in only one laboratory (10, 11). We have modified a technique for dissociation of viable adult guineapig hippocampal neurons (12) to dissociate supraoptic MNCs from adult rats for voltage-clamp studies. MNCs were selectively labelled with a fluorescent dye in vivo so that they could be identified after dissociation and prior to making recordings. These data have been published in abstract form elsewhere (13, 14).
A knowledge based system for the specification of manufacturing tolerances

Abstract This paper describes a knowledge based system developed for specification of ISO fits for the manufacture of rotational mating components with interference, clearance and transition fit types. Either shaft basis or hole basis system can be used for specification of tolerances. The knowledge base consists of various tolerance information, fit types, rules and procedures. The rulebase design is based on ISO recommendations for standard fits and tolerances. Given basic information such as diameter, type of fit and achievable deviation, the rule oriented system for computer aided tolerancing (ROSCAT) provides the ISO fit that is best suited for the given manufacturing conditions.
A note on the broyden-householder update

Abstract In this note we give theoretical justification and clarification of the Broyden-Householder algorithm recently suggested by Gallun and Holland. In particular, we present a discussion that shows that the Gallun and Holland algorithm, when modified to include periodical Jacobian restart, is superlinearly convergent. This fact follows from a combination of existing convergence results. We also restate the Broyden-Householder algorithm so as to include this periodical restart feature. The main point of this paper is that with periodical restart the algorithm of Gallun and Holland is superlinear; without it no statement concerning its theoretical can be made. This, we feel, is supported by the fact that Gallun and Holland used periodical Jacobian restart in their example problem, even though it did not appear in the statement of their algorithm.
Characterization of the effects of ω-conotoxin GVIA on the responses of voltage-sensitive calcium channels

1. omega-conotoxin GVIA (omega-CT) caused a potent (IC50 approximately 2nM) but less than maximal (55%) inhibition of [3H]-noradrenaline release from cortical brain slices induced by K+. At 0.1 microM, omega-CT inhibited [3H] gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and [3H]-acetylcholine release by approximately 40%. 2. K+-evoked [3H]-noradrenaline release from cortical brain slices was also characterized with respect to the effects of PN 200-110 (dihydropyridine L-channel antagonist), BAY K8644 (L-channel VSCC agonist), and Cd++ (an inorganic L- and N-channel antagonist). 10 microM Cd++ and 1 microM PN 200-110 inhibited K+-evoked [3H]-noradrenaline release by 52% and 17%, respectively. 10 microM Bay K 8644 enhanced K+-evoked [3H]-noradrenaline release by 22%, and this enhancement was blocked by 1 microM PN 200-110. 3. omega-CT caused a near-maximal inhibition of the electrically evoked twitch responses of the rat vas deferens (IC50 approximately 10 nM) and guinea-pig ileum (IC50 approximately 60 nM), but had no effect on the postjunctional contractile responses of noradrenaline (vas deferens) or carbachol (ileum). At concentrations as high as 1 microM, omega-CT had no effect on the K+-induced contraction of the rat aorta. 4. Neither the equilibrium binding of [3H]-(+)-PN 200-110 nor the allosteric regulation of [3H]-(+)-PN 200-110 binding by tiapamil or diltiazem were altered by omega-CT (0.1 microM). 5. These observations support the notion that the N-type voltage-sensitive calcium channel plays a major role in coupling neuronal excitation with neurotransmitter release.
MEAN-REVERTING STOCHASTIC VOLATILITY

We present derivative pricing and estimation tools for a class of stochastic volatility models that exploit the observed "bursty" or persistent nature of stock price volatility. An empirical analysis of high-frequency S&P 500 index data confirms that volatility reverts slowly to its mean in comparison to the tick-by-tick fluctuations of the index value, but it is fast mean-reverting when looked at over the time scale of a derivative contract (many months). This motivates an asymptotic analysis of the partial differential equation satisfied by derivative prices, utilizing the distinction between these time scales. The analysis yields pricing and implied volatility formulas, and the latter is used to "fit the smile" from European index option prices. The theory identifies the important group parameters that are needed for the derivative pricing and hedging problem for European-style securities, namely the average volatility and the slope and intercept of the implied volatility line, plotted as a function of the log-moneyness-to-maturity-ratio. The results considerably simplify the estimation procedure, and the data produces estimates of the three important parameters which are found to be stable within periods where the underlying volatility is close to being stationary. These segments of stationarity are identified using a wavelet-based tool. The remaining parameters, including the growth rate of the underlying, the correlation between asset price and volatility shocks, the rate of mean-reversion of the volatility and the market price of volatility risk can be roughly estimated, but are not needed for the asymptotic pricing formulas for European derivatives. The extension to American and path-dependent contingent claims is the subject of future work.
On the Duration of Technology Licensing

Abstract We model an innovator's choice of payment scheme and duration as a joint decision in a multi-period licensing game with potential future innovations and some irreversibility of technology transfer. We find that it may be optimal to license the innovation for less than the full length of the patent and that royalty contracts can be more profitable than fixed-fee licensing even in the absence of information asymmetry and risk aversion. Moreover, licensing contracts based on royalty have a longer duration than fixed-fee licenses and are more likely to be used in industries where innovations are frequent and intellectual property protection is weak. Our paper also highlights an important link between the study of technology licensing and the theory of durable goods.
Supplanting the Roots of Southern Populism: The Contours of Political Protest in the Georgia Hills

Steven Hahn, in his influential book The Roots of Southern Populism, viewed Populism in the Georgia Up-country as the culmination of a long-standing protest against the economic and social effects of commercialization in regions that were relatively isolated prior to the Civil War. In developing his explanation for the rise of Populism, Hahn emphasized the close relationship between voting for Populism in the 1890s and voting to keep the range open in the 1880s. The traditional agricultural practice in the South through the Civil War was to allow animals to roam the countryside freely and to force farmers to erect fences around their crops.
Vasopressin antagonizes retrograde amnesia in rats following electroconvulsive shock.

Abstract Rats given an electroconvulsive shock immediately following training in a passive avoidance task showed amnesia when tested 24 hr after training. This amnesia was prevented if lysine vasopressin was injected either one hr before the training trial or one hr before the first test trial. The results indicate that it is unlikely that either electroconvulsive shock or lysine vasopressin affect memory storage.
SPAWNING INDUCED PREMATURELY IN TROUT WITH THE AID OF PITUITARY GLANDS OF THE CARP1

THIS PAPER deals with the problem of inducing rainbow trout to spawn prematurely under the influence of hormones contained in the pituitary gland of the carp and suggests endocrinological methods practical to fish culture. Certain investigations of this type have been made by other workers. Houssay (I) injected hypophyses of Micropogon and Luciopimelodus into the ovoviviparous fish Cnesterodon with the result that expulsion of eggs occurred I5 days before the voluntary spawning time. In northeastern Brazil certain fishes spawn only after the heavy rains that follow a long period of drought. To procure eggs from these fish for artificial hatching purposes Cardoso (2) induced spawning prematurely in Prochilodus by injecting fish hypophyses. Von Ihering (3, 4) using this method, induced spawning prior to the jrainy season (the normal spawning time) in Prochilodus, Astyanax and Hoplias. He secured expulsion of eggs within 24 to 96 hours following a single intramuscular injection of 1 to 5 hypophyses of these ...
Songs and society in early Tudor London

Looking back over the past half century of research into the music of early Tudor England, it is clear that interest has been focussed principally upon sites of wealth, privilege and power. Dominating the arena are courts and household chapels, cathedrals and colleges, and the men and women who headed them. Perhaps that focus has been inevitable, since by their very nature wealthy and powerful institutions have the means to leave behind them rich deposits of evidence: not only high-art music, itself often notated in fine books, but also detailed records of expenditure, of the contractual duties carried out by or expected of musicians, and of valuable assets such as books and musical instruments. Moreover, where magnificence is on show there will often be eyewitness accounts to report on what has been seen and heard. All of those forms of evidence survive in quantity from early Tudor England, and it is hard not to be drawn to them.
Order-disorder reactions in α-Ti(O) and TiO☆

Abstract The appearance of a superstructure at low temperatures in hexagonal α-Ti containing oxygen and in TiO has been related to the properties of unoccupied lattice sites, i.e. vacancies. From the interaction energy between vacancy pairs the critical temperature for ordering has been calculated and found to be in agreement with experimental data.
Approximation scheme for the quantum Liouville equation using phase-space distribution functions.

A general approximation scheme for solving the quantum Liouville equation has been developed and is presented here specifically within the Hartree approximation. This method uses the connection between the density matrix and the Wigner phase-space representations. By use of the Wigner representation the off-diagonal elements of the density matrix are expanded in powers of deviations from the mean momentum value. The time evolution of these deviations is governed by a closed self-consistent set of equations.
FACTORS INFLUENCING THE ABILITY OF ISOLATED CELL NUCLEI TO FORM GELS IN DILUTE ALKALI

1. Known methods for isolating cell nuclei are divided into two classes, depending on whether or not the nuclei are capable of forming gels in dilute alkali or strong saline solutions. Methods which produce nuclei that can form gels apparently prevent the action of an intramitochondrial enzyme capable of destroying the gel-forming capacity of the nuclei. Methods in the other class are believed to permit this enzyme to act on the nuclei during the isolation procedure, causing detachment of DNA from some nuclear constituent (probably protein). 2. It is shown that heating in alkaline solution and x-irradiation can destroy nuclear gels. Heating in acid or neutral solutions can destroy the capacity of isolated nuclei to form gels. 3. Chemical and biological evidence is summarized in favor of the hypothesis that DNA is normally bound firmly to some nuclear component by non-ionic linkages.
4C-ing the Igh Landscape.

The assembly of antigen receptors in developing B lymphocytes is determined by the spatio-temporal organization of the immunoglobulin heavy chain locus (Igh). In this issue of Immunity, Medvedovic et al. (2013) provide a comprehensive dynamic view of the Igh locus architecture.
Caffeine taste test for panic disorder: Adenosine receptor supersensitivity

The present study introduces a novel measure of adenosine receptor sensitivity that is based on the action of specific receptor blockers (e.g., caffeine) to potentiate the ability to detect threshold quinine concentrations. The test is used to compare gustatory adenosinergic responses to caffeine challenges in normal controls and patients with panic disorder or posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Panic disorder patients had an exaggerated response to the caffeine challenge that was not found in controls or PTSD patients, although the latter had higher anxiety scores on psychometric tests. The results are related to a model in which A1-adenosine receptors up-regulate in an attempt to modulate hyperactive excitatory neuronal systems.
Oxygenation products of arachidonic acid: third messengers for insulin release.

Abstract Although an association between membrane phospholipid turnover and exocytotic hormone release has long been recognized, a causal relationship has not been firmly established. Recent studies suggest that glucose (and probably other insulin secretagogues) activates phospholipases and thereby releases membrane-bound arachidonic acid (AA). AA is then converted through islet 12-lipoxygenase to mediators or modulators of insulin release (tentatively identified as peroxides and epoxides of arachidonate). These products may be critical links in stimulus-secretion coupling, since blockade of either AA release or lipoxygenation abrogates insulin release induced by glucose and many other (but not all) stimuli. Cogeneration of prostaglandins from AA through the cyclooxygenase pathway may directly or indirectly modulate the formation and/ or effect of lipoxygenase products. A critical role for lipoxygenase products (and possibly metabolites of AA synthesized by other pathways, such as P-450-dependent monooxygenases) may extend to many secretory cells in addition to pancreatic beta cells. The phasic release of AA described in many cells could explain the biphasic pattern of insulin release induced by glucose. Since some phospholipases and lipoxygenases are Ca ++ activated, the release of AA in conjunction with its oxygenation appears to be a concerted system generating "third messengers" for hormone release.