cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
CD44 is required for spatial memory retention and sensorimotor functions

CD44 is a transmembrane receptor for the glycosaminoglycan hyaluronan, a component of the extracellular matrix. CD44 is expressed by neural stem/progenitor cells, astrocytes, and some neurons but its function in the central nervous system is unknown. To determine the role of CD44 in brain function, we behaviorally analyzed CD44-null (KO) and wild-type (WT) mice. KO mice showed increased activity levels in the light-dark test and a trend toward increased activity in the open field. In addition, KO mice showed impaired hippocampus-dependent spatial memory retention in the probe trial following the first hidden-platform training day in the Morris water maze: WT mice showed spatial memory retention and spent more time in the target quadrant than any other quadrant, while KO mice did not. Although there were no genotype differences in swim speeds during the water maze training sessions with the visible or hidden platform, sensorimotor impairments were seen in other behavioral tests. In the inclined screen and balance beam tests, KO mice moved less than WT mice. In the wire hang test, KO mice also fell off of the wire faster than WT mice. In contrast, there was no genotype difference when emotional learning and memory were assessed in the passive avoidance test. These data support an important role for CD44 in locomotor and sensorimotor functions, and in spatial memory retention.
Microstructure Organization in Para-aramid Fibers

The existence of "lateral birefringence," i.e., the difference between the refractive index for light polarized parallel to the fiber radius and light polarized perpendicular to the radius in the c...
Predictive soil mapping: A review

Predictive soil mapping (PSM) can be defined as the development of a numerical or statistical model of the relationship among environmental variables and soil properties, which is then applied to a geographic data base to create a predictive map. PSM is made possible by geo- computational technologies developed over the past few decades. For example, advances in geographic information science, digital terrain modeling, remote sensing, fuzzy logic has created a tremendous potential for improvement in the way that soil maps are produced. The State Factor soil-forming model, which was introduced to the western world by one of the early Presidents of the American Association of Geographers (C.F. Marbut), forms the theoretical basis of PSM. PSM research is being driven by a need to understand the role soil plays in the biophysical and biogeochemical functioning of the planet. Much research has been published on the subject in the last 20 years (mostly outside of geographic journals) and methods have varied widely from statistical approaches (including geostatistics) to more complex methods, such as decision tree analysis, and expert systems. A geographic perspective is needed because of the inherently geographic nature of PSM.
Maternal Knowledge About Children's School Performance Comparisons Between Mothers of Maltreated and Nonmaltreated Children

When mothers of maltreated children were compared with mothers of nonmaltreated children regarding the extent of agreements between their assessments of their children's school performance and school records, there was substantial agreement for both groups. However, discrepancies were more common in the maltreatment group than in the nonmaltreatment group, particularly for subject grades, and these discrepancies were generally in the direction of mothers underestimating rather than overestimating their children's performance. Maternal inaccuracies in knowledge of children's school performance have implications for protective service interventions and for selecting sources of information in research.
Phase transition in opinion diffusion in social networks

Gossiping models have been increasingly applied to study social network phenomena, in particular, to model the dynamics of social behavior or belief through local interactions. In this context, this paper investigates how the opinions of social agents diffuse in a network under a so-called hard-interaction model, in which the agents interact more strongly with neighbors that share their beliefs and have no influence on the neighbors whose opinions differ by more than a threshold. We analyze the convergence properties of the opinion dynamics and provide analytical insights to characterize the phase transition from a society of radicalized opinions to one of convergent behavior.
The effects of temperature on the behaviour and physiology of Phataria unifascialis (Gray) (Echinodermata, Asteroidea) Implications for the species' distribution in the Gulf of California, Mexico

Abstract Aspects of the behaviour, physiology and demography of Phataria unifascialis (Gray), a shallow subtidal seastar from the Gulf of California, Mexico, were examined to determine whether cool temperature was an important factor limiting this species' distribution in the northern regions of the Gulf. Individuals in the population at Bahia de Los Angeles, in the northern gulf, were of larger mean size but were significantly less abundant than at Loreto, a site in the southern gulf. Smaller size classes were also less abundant or missing in the Bahia de Los Angeles population, suggesting limited recruitment. Pyloric caecae and gonads were of similar size at both locations, making it unlikely that food limitation or lack of reproductive potential was the limiting factor. The population at Loreto contained a distinct reproductively-primed subgroup which was not observed at Bahia de Los Angeles. Activity of the species remained relatively constant with temperature down to 17 °C, the winter surface water temperature characteristic of Loreto, but dropped sharply at the 14 °C water temperature characteristic of the Bahia de Los Angeles winter. Metabolic rates at these low temperatures were elevated over expected rates even though activity was reduced, suggesting metabolic stress. The species' moderate oxyregulating ability also disappeared at low temperature. Taken together, these data suggest that the low temperatures of the northern gulf may well be an important factor limiting this species' northern distribution in the Gulf.
A multitrajectory, competition model of emergent complexity in human social organization.

The repeated pattern of emergent human organization at a societal level going from small-scale, egalitarian decentralized societies to complex, stratified, and centralized societies is well-documented in the archaeological record of past societies. In this paper, I outline a multitrajectory model that relates to the broad features of this sequence of societal change. Competition is shown to play a critical role in the way interaction—among decision making, demographic parameters, and social units that organize resource ownership and procurement—either promotes or inhibits change in social organization. Multiagent simulation is discussed as a way to link culturally embedded decision making to emergent properties in the multitrajectory model.
The relationship of vascularity and water content to tensile strength in a patellar tendon replacement of the anterior cruciate in dogs

The methods and materials for ACL reconstruction are important issues for the practicing orthopaedic sur geon. In this study a model was developed to study the biological and biomechanical characteristics of a patel lar tendon autograft used for ACL reconstruction. Spe cifically it was hypothesized that since vascularity of these grafts reflects their "healthiness," strength and vascularity should be inversely related in the early pe riod after implantation. Using an over the top technique, a patellar tendon graft was placed in three groups of dogs and studied at 37, 57, and 120 days. Vascularity of the grafts was measured using technetium-tagged red blood cells, and percent water by weight was determined by dessication. Tensile testing to failure was performed using an MTS machine. The grafts became more vascular, more hydrated, less stiff, and less strong (by 4 weeks) than controls. By 16 weeks the vascular response was subsiding but the grafts remained only 40% as strong as controls. Percent water incr...
Effects of elastase inhibitor on the epithelial cell apoptosis in bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis.

Alveolar epithelial cell injury and apoptosis is consistent findings in human idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Epithelial cell apoptosis is known to be induced by leukocyte elastase in vitro. The authors hypothesized that synthetic neutrophil elastase inhibitor, sivelestat (ONO-5046), can inhibit the bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in rats by blocking the apoptotic pathways in epithelial cells. Adult rats were injected with intratracheal bleomycin. Sivelestat was given for 13 days intraperitoneally after bleomycin treatments. Similar experiments were carried out in which A549 cells, a human alveolar type II epithelial cell line, were treated with bleomycin or neutrophil elastase. In rats, sivelestat decreased neutrophil counts and the cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant (CINC)-1 in the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid of bleomycin-treated rats. Sivelestat also decreased the bleomycin-induced lung inflammatory cell apoptosis by decreasing caspase-3 and -9 activities. In A549 cells, sivel...
Parallel sequence comparison and alignment

Sequence comparisons, a vital research tool in computational biology, is based on a simple O(n/sup 2/) algorithm that easily maps to a linear array of processors. This paper reviews and compares high-performance sequence analysis on general-purpose supercomputers and single-purpose, reconfigurable, and programmable co-processors. The difficulty of comparing hardware from published performance figures is also noted.
Galerkin Projection for Geometrically Exact Sandwich Beams Allowing for Ply Drop-off

A Galerkin projection of the equations of equilibrium for a recent theory of geometrically exact sandwich beams that allow finite rotations and shear deformation in each layer is presented. The continuity of the displacement across the layers is exactly satisfied. The resulting finite element formulation can accommodate large deformation. The number of layers is variable, with layer lengths and thicknesses not required to be the same, thus allowing the modeling of sandwich structures with ply drop-off. Numerical examples are presented which underline the salient features of the formulation. Saint-Venant principle is demonstrated for very short sandwich beams.
Solid-State Nanopore Sensors for Nucleic Acid Analysis

Solid-state nanopores are nm sized apertures formed in thin synthetic membranes. These single molecule sensors have been used in a variety of biophysical and diagnostic applications and serve as a potential candidate in the development of cost-effective, next generation DNA sequencing technologies, critical to furthering our understanding of inheritance, individuality, disease and evolution. The versatility of solid-state nanopore technology allows for both interfacing with biological systems at the nano-scale as well as large scale VLSI integration promising reliable, affordable, mass producible biosensors with single molecule sensing capabilities. In addition, this technology allows for truly parallel, high throughput DNA and protein analysis through the development of nanopore and micropore arrays in ultra-thin synthetic membranes. This chapter is focused on the development of solid-state nanopore sensors in synthetic membranes and the potential benefits and challenges associated with this technology. Biological nanopores, primarily α-hemolysin and the phi29 connector are also reviewed. We conclude with a detailed discussion on chemically modified solid-state nanopores. These surface functionalized nanopore sensors combine the stability and versatility of solid-state nanopores with the sensitivity and selectivity of biological nanopore systems and may play an important role in drug screening and medical diagnostics.
Catch Bonds of Integrin/Ligand Interactions

Interactions of integrins with ligands mediate cell adhesion in mechanical environments. Their association kinetics can be regulated biochemically by inducing integrin extension and/or opening its headpiece, which enhances on-rate. Their dissociation kinetics can be regulated mechanically by externally applied force. Increasing force prolongs integrin/ligand bond lifetimes, giving rise to counterintuitive catch bonds. Beyond an optimal level, further increase in force shortens bond lifetimes, yielding ordinary slip bonds. Structurally, catch bonds between αLβ2 integrin and its physiological ligand intercellular adhesion molecule 1 can be explained by a force-induced allosteric mechanism that involves the downward movement of the α7-helix of the αA domain but does not require the integrin ectodomain to assume a bent or extended conformation with the hybrid domain in closed or swing-out position.
Advance to and Persistence in Graduate School: Identifying the Influential Factors and Major-Based Differences.

Structured within an expanded econometric theoretical framework, this study uses national data sources to identify the critical factors that influence college graduates' advance to and persistence in graduate education and to compare the systematic differences between students in the STEM and non-STEM majors. The findings indicate that there is a high attrition rate from graduate education in both STEM and non-STEM majors. Male, Caucasian, and students who received their bachelor degree at a traditional (younger) age are more likely to attend and complete graduate education, regardless of academic major. Major-based differences are apparent in the impact from variables including parents' education, total undergraduate debt, institution selectivity, and student's academic background measured by SAT/ACT scores and cumulative GPA in undergraduate major.
Effect of Cooking Method on the Quality of Turkey Breast Meat Cooked from the Frozen State

Abstract INTRODUCTION ELIMINATING defrosting turkey before cooking may increase consumption of turkey meat and be more convenient. Cutting birds into quarters provides smaller pieces than whole birds for family meals, reduces total cooking time and permits light or dark meat to be selected. In this study two common cooking methods, roasting and braising were compared using light meat breast quarters cooked from the frozen state. EXPERIMENTAL Materials and Methods. Twenty-four Broad Breasted Bronze turkey hens (U.S. Grade A), from the same flock and processed under similar conditions, were purchased from Kansas State Poultry farm and processed by a commercial processing plant. The dressed weight of turkey hens ranged from 12–14 lbs. The birds were slaughtered by conventional methods and chilled in ice water overnight. The next day, the whole turkeys were separated, using a band saw, into quarters separating the light meat from the dark meat. The right and left . . .
The Arizona State Global Freshman Academy

Michael Crowe, president of Arizona State University (ASU), is one of the most innovative leaders in American higher education. At ASU he has created a new model of an American research university—...
Properties and Pharmacology of a TTX-insensitive Na+ Current in Neurones of the Jellyfish Cyanea Capillata

Neurones of the motor nerve net of the jellyfish Cyanea capillata were axotomized, and voltage-clamped using the whole-cell configuration of the patch-clamp technique. Outward currents were blocked by a combination of extracellular 4-aminopyridine (4-AP) and intracellular Cs + , tetraethylammonium (TEA + ) and 4-AP. Under normal conditions, the inward current consisted of a fast, transient current which could be abolished by removal of extracellular Na + and whose reversal potential was dependent on the extracellular Na + concentration. This current was completely insensitive to tetrodotoxin (TTX), saxitoxin (STX) and conotoxin GIIIA but could be blocked by extracellular Cd 2+ , lidocaine, W7 [ N -(6 aminohexyl)-5-chloro-1-napthalenesulphonamide] and verapamil. Inactivation was voltage-dependent with a V h of −15mV, and was unaffected by veratridine, batrachotoxin (BTX), sea anemone toxin and scorpion ( Leiurus ) venom. Reactivation required repolarization to a negative membrane potential for 12 ms for half-maximal reactivation. In the absence of extracellular Na + no inward current was visible unless [Ca 2+ ] o was elevated. In Na + -free, 95 mmoll −1 Ca 2+ saline, a slightly slower, inward current was recorded. This current is believed to be the Ca 2+ current that underlies synaptic transmission. 7. These findings are discussed with reference to synaptic transmission in these cells and the evolution of ion channels.
Rapid detection and quantitation of human cytomegalovirus in urine through DNA hybridization.

Abstract We detected cytomegalovirus DNA in clinical urine specimens after immobilization on nitrocellulose filters and hybridization with a radioactively labeled, cloned fragment of cytomegalovirus DNA. We accomplished the specific detection and quantitation of viral DNA within 24 hours with 39 urine specimens from nine patients with cytomegalovirus viruria, mostly at a tissue-culture infective titer of 103 per milliliter or higher. None of 57 urine specimens from 21 patients that were culture-negative for cytomegalovirus gave false-positive results. Analysis of specimens from patients with cytomegalovirus viruria showed a correlation of the infective titer with the intensity of DNA hybridization (r = 0.77). Hybridization of sequential urine specimens from a patient undergoing treatment with interferon for cytomegalovirus retinitis revealed quantitative variations in hybridizable viral DNA over a period that correlated with clinical findings. This assay can be useful in the selection of patients for anti...
Evolution of E. coli tRNA(Ile): evidence of derivation from other tRNAs.

Two E. coli tRNA(Ile) sequences were compared against those of 36 other E. coli tRNAs. tRNA(Ile) 1 was found to bear high similarity with tRNA(Val) 1 (E = 1.11 X 10(-18] while tRNA(Ile) 2 had the greatest match (E = 3.40 X 10(-19] with tRNA(Lysl) (E is the expected number of such matches, per search, based on coincidence). These matches, which we consider to represent homologies, extend from base 7 to base 67 in the former and base 7 to the end (76) in the latter pair. These results coupled with others on the lower activity of isoleucine in reactions postulated to be important in primitive protein synthesis (i.e., esterification reactions and non-enzymatic activation by ATP [1-3]) lead us to propose that isoleucine was included among the proteinaceous amino acids, and received its anticodonic assignment, relatively late in evolution through mutation of tRNAs previously employed for other amino acids.
Oxidation of Silyl Enol Ethers Using 2-Sulfonyloxaziridines. Synthesis of α-Siloxy Epoxides and α-Hydroxy Carbonyl Compounds.

The silyl enol ethers (Ia) - (Ie) and the silyl ketene acetal (If) are oxidized with the N-sulfonyl oxaziridine (II) to form the epoxy derivatives (III).
Army community health nurses' role in humanitarian relief effort, Operation Sea Signal, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, on the southeast corner of Cuba, became a hard-back tent city, the home of over 50,000 Cuban and Haitian refugees, from July 20, 1994, to January 31, 1996. The talents of members of the U.S. armed forces, combined with government and nongovernment agencies, contributed to what is considered by many the most successful migrant operation ever conducted in the 20th century. Army community health nurses constituted an integral part of this operation. Their hard work and dedicated service contributed, in large part, to the ultimate success of the mission.
Is the standard of care always worth the cost

Considering the degree of need, not just the standard of care, when asking a patient to spend money requires the same sort of judgment that physicians routinely use when deciding, for example, how soon a patient needs to be seen.
Large Scale Accelerator Production of 225Ac: Effective Cross sections for 78-192 MeV Protons Incident on 232Th Targets

Abstract Actinium-225 and 213Bi have been used successfully in targeted alpha therapy (TAT) in preclinical and clinical research. This paper is a continuation of research activities aiming to expand the availability of 225Ac. The high-energy proton spallation reaction on natural thorium metal targets has been utilized to produce millicurie quantities of 225Ac. The results of sixteen irradiation experiments of thorium metal at beam energies between 78 and 192 MeV are summarized in this work. Irradiations have been conducted at Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) and Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), while target dissolution and processing was carried out at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). Excitation functions for actinium and thorium isotopes, as well as for some of the fission products, are presented. The cross sections for production of 225Ac range from 3.6 to 16.7 mb in the incident proton energy range of 78–192 MeV. Based on these data, production of curie quantities of 225Ac is possible by irradiating a 5.0 g cm−2 232Th target for 10 days in either BNL or LANL proton irradiation facilities.
Adapting Therapy Based on Tumor Response

Though radiotherapy techniques have improved significantly over the past few decades, high rates of toxicity, recurrence and mortality persist for many cancer types. This chapter describes how traditional radiation therapy, which involves application of common dose prescriptions and normal tissue constraints across heterogeneous populations, limits personalization of treatment. It presents an explanatory model of the potential benefits of individualizing and adapting radiotherapy and places these benefits in the appropriate clinical context. It highlights the importance of utilizing novel imaging sequences and biomarkers, and illuminates the advantages of incorporating intra-treatment data into adaptation algorithms. It outlines a framework for identifying opportunities to investigate and develop individualized radiotherapy protocols. Using various tumor types as examples, it discusses the rationale for radiotherapy, current standards of care, and emerging evidence for the utility of adaptation strategies. Finally, it suggests areas for future adaptive radiotherapy research, with the goal of improving cancer outcomes through precision radiation medicine.
A Method for Rapid Measurement of Contrast Sensitivity on Mobile Touch-Screens.

Touch-screen displays in cell phones and tablet computers are now pervasive, making them an attractive option for vision testing outside of the laboratory or clinic. Here we de- scribe a novel method in which subjects use a finger swipe to indicate the transition from visible to invisible on a grating which is swept in both contrast and frequency. Because a single image can be swiped in about a second, it is practical to use a series of images to zoom in on particular ranges of contrast or frequency, both to increase the accuracy of the measurements and to obtain an estimate of the reliability of the subject. Sensitivities to chromatic and spatio-temporal modulations are easily measured using the same method. A proto- type has been developed for Apple Computer's iPad/iPod/iPhone family of devices, implemented using an open-source scripting environment known as QuIP (QUick Image Processing, http://hsi.arc.nasa.gov/groups/scanpath/research.php). Preliminary data show good agreement with estimates obtained from traditional psychophysical methods as well as newer rapid estimation techniques. Issues relating to device calibration are also discussed.
THE EFFECT OF BODY COMPOSITION ON CARDIOVASCULAR OUTCOMES IN CARDIAC REHABILITATION PATIENTS WITH CORONARY HEART DISEASE

Background: It seems that less fat would prolong survival in heart disease. However, in heart failure, obesity may protect against cardiovascular events or death — the obesity paradox. Our study aims to define how body composition contributes to survival in coronary heart disease (CHD). Methods:
Ultrathin, wafer-scale hexagonal boron nitride on dielectric surfaces by diffusion and segregation mechanism

Chemical vapor deposition (CVD) of two-dimensional (2D) hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) is at the center of numerous studies for its applications in novel electronic devices. However, a clear understanding of the growth mechanism is lacking for its wider industrial adoption on technologically relevant substrates such as SiO2. Here, we demonstrate a controllable growth method of thin, wafer scale h-BN films on arbitrary substrates. We also clarify the growth mechanism to be diffusion and surface segregation (D-SS) of boron (B) and nitrogen (N) in Ni and Co thin films on SiO2/Si substrates after exposure to diborane and ammonia precursors at high temperature. The segregation was found to be independent of the cooling rates employed in this report, and to our knowledge has not been found nor reported for 2D h-BN growth so far, and thus provides an important direction for controlled growth of h-BN. This unique segregation behavior is a result of a combined effect of high diffusivity, small film thickness and the inability to achieve extremely high cooling rates in CVD systems. The resulting D-SS h-BN films exhibit excellent electrical insulating behavior with an optical bandgap of about 5.8?eV. Moreover, graphene-on-h-BN field effect transistors using the as-grown D-SS h-BN films show a mobility of about 6000?cm2 V?1 s?1 at room temperature.
Willingness to Pay for Index Based Crop Insurance in Ghana

The study uses a dichotomous contingent valuation method to elicit the willingness to pay for crop insurance among cereal farmers in the Eastern region of Ghana. A sequential decision was considered. An initial decision regarding the willingness to purchase and a subsequent decision on the willingness to pay amount conditional on a positive initial decision was determined. The study employed descriptive statistical techniques to analyse primary data obtained from 208 sampled farmers in the region. Out of the sampled farmers, 52.9% expressed interest in crop insurance. The Probit model was used to estimate the mean willingness to pay (WTP) for crop insurance. The results revealed that farmers were willing to pay approximately GHc 66.2 per cropping season. A Heckman two stage approach was employed to estimate the factors influencing the WTP for crop insurance. The empirical results of the Probit model revealed that marital status, education, crop type, access to extension service, borrowing, savings and awareness of crop insurance influenced farmers’ willingness to purchase insurance. Farmers WTP amount estimated with the Ordinary Least Square regression model was shown to be influenced by variables such as marital status, other occupation, access to credit, borrowing and savings. The study recommends that with adequate and detailed information and affordable premiums, farmers will be willing to purchase insurance. Appropriate distribution channels are also recommended to incite demand for crop insurance.
DNA damage and repair (DDR) gene variants and outcomes in localized and metastatic prostate cancer (mPC).

304Background: Moderate frequencies of DDR gene variants exist in mPC. Their prognostic role in localized and mPC is unclear. This study aims to characterize DDR variants in a cohort of hormone sensitive localized and mPC and assess for association with outcome. Methods: A retrospective cohort of men with PC and ≥ 2 follow up visits at DFCI and targeted next generation sequencing of prostate or metastatic tissue was identified. Biomarker (BM) positive was defined as pathogenic changes in the following DDR genes: ATM BAP1 BRCA1 BRCA2 BRIP1 CHEK2 MSH2 MSH6 PALB2 PMS2. For localized PC, outcome endpoints included event-free survival (EFS) (time from prostate biopsy to PSA relapse/metastasis/death), metastasis-free survival (MFS) (time to metastasis/death), time to castration resistance (CRPC), and death (OS); for mPC, outcome events included time from androgen deprivation start to CRPC and OS. BM status was descriptively summarized. Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regression model assessed associations of BM sta...
Particle Beam Scattering From the Vacuum–Liquid Interface

Abstract Knowledge of the molecular-scale collision processes that determine chemical reaction dynamics at liquid surfaces is important for a complete understanding of a range of interfacial processes. The chapter details those research approaches that use directed beams of atoms and molecules to collide with liquid surfaces in vacuum. The chapter begins by discussing ways to satisfy the special requirements presented by conducting research with liquids in a vacuum environment. The contemporary experimental scattering approaches are surveyed, including methods based on time-of-flight mass spectrometry and laser spectroscopy. A discussion of the theoretical approaches to explain molecular scattering behavior ranges from simple kinematic models to fully atomistic direct dynamics simulations.
LEARNING THROUGH MODEL BUILDING

The classical image of modeling involves conceptualizers in the abstract world and scientists in the empirical world. However, it is also possible to conceive of other worlds and other roles, and to envisage a kind of modeling that aims at learning as its principal outcome. Because citizens who take part in such modeling are not mathematicians or scientists, as a rule, structural modeling involving computer assistance is much more appropriate for such learning than classical modeling. Post-structural modeling begins where structural modeling stops, and is largely limited to classical modeling. The functions of the computer are vital in structural modeling aimed at citizen learning, thus the functions of the computer are discussed, and the role of the citizen and the facilitator are outlined. Examples of structural modeling are mentioned, illustrating both how one form of this activity is advancing and how it is being applied in learning modes, with applications in policymaking.
Clinical Pharmacology of Natural and Synthetic Cannabinoids

Cannabis sativa, the plant from which marihuana and hashish are derived, has been used for medicinal purposes for the past 5,000 years. About 3,000 B.C. the Chinese Emperor Shen Nung published a monograph in which cannabis was reportedly used for asthma, migraine, and certain gynecologic disorders. It was recognized as an official drug and was listed in the United States Pharmacopoeia until 1937, at which time the Narcotics and Marihuana Law came into effect.
Stochastic Processes (iii): Markov Chains

Introductory aspects of the theory of Markov chains were discussed in Chapter 4. In the present chapter further details of the theory of Markov chains will be discussed, first for Markov chains with no absorbing states and second for Markov chains with absorbing states. Our analysis of finite Markov chain theory is often oversimplified, since an examination of some of the subtleties involved in the full theory is not appropriate for bioinformatics. A recent and more complete exposition of the theory can be found in Norris (1997).
Vitamin E and its effect on skeletal muscle

Recent evidence supports the contention that unaccustomed and strenuous exercise may lead to disruption of the delicate oxidant/antioxidant balance, resulting in oxidative stress within the human body. It is generally accepted that many instances of cellular and tissue dysfunction observed after exercise may be attributed to oxidative stress. Vitamin E is the most prevalent and potent lipid soluble antioxidant in the human body and may have an important role in decreasing oxidative stress associated with exercise by improving the oxidant/antioxidant balance. Concentrations of vitamin E can be significantly increased in muscle tissues within a relatively short period of time by dietary intake and/or supplementation. Concentrations of vitamin E may also vary among the muscle fibre types. Although rarely observed, vitamin E deficiency may induce muscle fibre degradation, affect skeletal muscle fibre type distribution, promote deposition of lipid granules, and result in other increased indications of oxidative stress. Oxygen consumption increases markedly during strenuous exercise and is believed to contribute to the increase in oxygen radical formation during exercise. Acute exercise and exercise training increase antioxidant enzyme levels in skeletal muscle of animals. Since exercise reduces vitamin E content of skeletal muscle, the requirement for vitamin E may be substantially above the current recommended dietary allowance (RDA), particularly for individuals who regularly exercise. Data suggesting a protective effect of vitamin E supplementation on human performance are limited; however, the preponderance of evidence indicates beneficial effects from long-term vitamin E supplementation in decreasing exercise-induced oxidative stress and associated risk factors.
A systematic mapping study of infrastructure as code research

Abstract Context: Infrastructure as code (IaC) is the practice to automatically configure system dependencies and to provision local and remote instances. Practitioners consider IaC as a fundamental pillar to implement DevOps practices, which helps them to rapidly deliver software and services to end-users. Information technology (IT) organizations, such as GitHub, Mozilla, Facebook, Google and Netflix have adopted IaC. A systematic mapping study on existing IaC research can help researchers to identify potential research areas related to IaC, for example defects and security flaws that may occur in IaC scripts. Objective: The objective of this paper is to help researchers identify research areas related to infrastructure as code (IaC) by conducting a systematic mapping study of IaC-related research. Method: We conduct our research study by searching five scholar databases. We collect a set of 31,498 publications by using seven search strings. By systematically applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, which includes removing duplicates and removing non-English and non peer-reviewed publications, we identify 32 publications related to IaC. We identify topics addressed in these publications by applying qualitative analysis. Results: We identify four topics studied in IaC-related publications: (i) framework/tool for infrastructure as code; (ii) adoption of infrastructure as code; (iii) empirical study related to infrastructure as code; and (iv) testing in infrastructure as code. According to our analysis, 50.0% of the studied 32 publications propose a framework or tool to implement the practice of IaC or extend the functionality of an existing IaC tool. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that framework or tools is a well-studied topic in IaC research. As defects and security flaws can have serious consequences for the deployment and development environments in DevOps, we observe the need for research studies that will study defects and security flaws for IaC.
Effects of Clavulanic Acid Treatment on Reinstatement to Methamphetamine, Glial Glutamate Transporters, and mGluR 2/3 Expression in P Rats Exposed to Ethanol

Evidence demonstrated that the glutamatergic system is implicated in mediating relapse to several drugs of abuse, including methamphetamine (METH). Glutamate homeostasis is maintained by a number of glutamate transporters, such as glutamate transporter type 1 (GLT-1), cystine/glutamate transporter (xCT), and glutamate aspartate transporter (GLAST). In addition, group II metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluR2/3) were found to be implicated in relapse-seeking behavior. Ample evidence showed that β-lactam antibiotics are effective in upregulating GLT-1 and xCT expression, thus improving glutamate homeostasis and attenuating relapse to drugs of abuse. In this study, we investigated the reinstatement of METH using conditioned place preference (CPP) in male alcohol-preferring (P) rats exposed to home-cage free choice ethanol drinking. Here, we tested the effect of clavulanic acid (CA), a β-lactam, on the reinstatement of METH-seeking and ethanol drinking. In addition, we examined the expression of GLT-1, xCT, and GLAST as well as metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR2/3) in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) shell, NAc core, and dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (dmPFC). A priming i.p. injection of METH reinstated preference in METH-paired chamber following extinction. Chronic exposure to ethanol decreased the expression of GLT-1 and xCT in the NAc shell, but not in the NAc core or dmPFC. CA treatment blocked the reinstatement of METH-seeking, decreased ethanol intake, and restored the expression of GLT-1 and xCT in the NAc shell. In addition, the expression of mGluR2/3 was increased by CA treatment in the NAc shell and dmPFC. These findings suggest that these glutamate transporters and mGluR2/3 might be potential therapeutic targets for the attenuation of reinstatement to METH-seeking.
Isolated abdominal nocardiosis in a pediatric renal transplant recipient.

Nocardia infection after RT is uncommon. The most common modes of exposure are inhalation of dust containing nocardia or contaminated soil/water and surgical instruments. Isolated abdominal nocardiosis following RT has not been reported. We report an 11-year-old female who developed nocardia abscesses of the abdomen post-RT. ESRD was secondary to FSGS and she had received multiple immunosuppressive agents prior to transplant. Induction immunosuppression consisted of thymoglobulin and maintenance was with tacrolimus, mycophenolate, and prednisone. There were construction activities in the hospital ward during her hospital stay. Due to immediate recurrence of FSGS in the allograft, she received plasma exchange, rituximab, and IVIG. Anti-infective prophylaxis consisted of TMP-SMX, valganciclovir, and nystatin. She developed multiple loculated fluid collections in the abdomen 6 weeks later. Histology of lesions demonstrated suppurative caseating granulomatous inflammation and the AFB culture showed Nocardia farcinica. With the reduction of immunosuppressive agents along with usage of TMP-SMX, imipenem-cilastatin, and linezolid, she had a partial recovery after 9 months with persistent small abscesses but remained asymptomatic clinically. There was no evidence of nocardia infection in lungs and brain. Repeat AFB culture from the lesions was negative. Allograft function remained stable throughout. She remains on oral TMP-SMX therapy. We postulated that she could have acquired nocardia either from the contaminated air particles in the hospital from the construction activities or reactivation of nocardia from prior colonization. Nocardia infection should be suspected in immunocompromised patients with unexplained fever and abdominal pain.
Establishment and Benefits of a Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus Support Group on Patient Education and Experience.

Author(s): Tran, Peter; Nguyen, Christopher Q; Huang, Melissa; Pham, Judy; Ly, Catthi; Shah, Ishan; Sahyouni, Ronald; Poole, Cassie; Tran, Kieu; Chen, Jefferson W | Abstract: INTRODUCTION:Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is a debilitating, neurological condition that can lead to mental deterioration. With the diagnosis and treatment of NPH constantly evolving and its symptoms worsening with age, education for patients and their families is crucial. In this study, we aim tonexplore the potential educational benefits of a physician-led NPH support group. METHODS:Between December 2015 and November 2018, six semiannual NPH support group meetings were held for patients and their families. Attendees, ages 20-90, completed a Likert scale-based survey designed to assess the support group's educational benefits using the following primary outcome variables: (1) subjective knowledge, (2) perceived utility/efficacy, and (3) patient satisfaction. RESULTS:Our survey data suggests that patients and their family members agree on the efficacy of the support group in learning about NPH. They felt that the support group served its purpose and improved their comfort/knowledge regarding NPH. There was consensus about sustaining and maintaining the support group for the future. Of 65 survey responses, the composite average score of questions pertaining to subjective knowledge, perceived utility/efficacy, and patient satisfaction was 4.5 out of 5.0. CONCLUSION:We demonstrated that support groups are effective in educating the adult NPH population and their family/friends about NPH onset and treatment. Enhanced educational awareness for patients and families can help patients cope with their neurological condition and improve patient adherence to follow-up and physician recommendations.
A control-based account of stereotyping

Abstract Drawing from compensatory control theory, we propose that because stereotypes provide psychological assurance that the world is orderly and predictable, stereotyping should increase among those lacking control. Four studies support this control-based account of stereotyping: lower personal control, both measured (Studies 1 and 3) and manipulated (Study 2a and 2b), was associated with greater gender (Studies 1, 2a, and 2b) and occupational stereotyping (Study 3). Furthermore, the association between control and stereotyping was mediated by need for structure (Studies 2a, 2b, and 3). We also explore the moderating role of interdependent self-construal (Studies 1 to 3). These findings have implications for our understanding of when, why and to what end people stereotype others.
Block-Structured Processes and the B6700 Job

This chapter discusses the concept of a B6700 job, which consists of a time-invariant algorithm and a time-varying data structure that is the record of execution of that algorithm. The algorithm consists of a set of non-varying code segments that are directly addressable in the virtual memory sense. The record of execution is a multipurpose data structure that at any given time defines: (1) the execution state of the job, including values for all variables—scalar, arrayed, and structured; (2) the addressing environment—virtual address subspace—that a hardware processor serving this job may access, or possibly several overlapping addressing environments, in case it is appropriate that more than one processor be permitted to execute in the job at the same time—multiple activity; (3) the inter-block/inter-procedure/inter-task flow of control history, for example, chain of calls. In its simplest view, the hardware processor functions by maintaining a pair of pointers, an instruction pointer (ip) and an environment pointer (ep), for referencing the accessible portions of the record.
Science and democracy reconsidered

To what extent is the normative commitment of STS to the democratization of science a product of the democratic contexts where it is most often produced? STS scholars have historically offered a powerful critical lens through which to understand the social construction of science, and seminal contributions in this area have outlined ways in which citizens have improved both the conduct of science and its outcomes. Yet, with few exceptions, it remains that most STS scholarship has eschewed study of more problematic cases of public engagement of science in rich, supposedly mature Western democracies, as well as examination of science-making in poorer, sometimes non-democratic contexts. How might research on problematic cases and dissimilar political contexts traditionally neglected by STS scholars push the field forward in new ways? This paper responds to themes that came out of papers from two Eastern Sociological Society Presidential Panels on Science and Technology Studies in an Era of Anti-Science. It considers implications of the normative commitment by sociologists working in the STS tradition to the democratization of science.
Making visible the invisible: Bisexual parents ponder coming out to their kids:

Unlike straight or gay parents whose sexuality is often made obvious to their children based on the gender composition of their relationships, bisexual and other non-monosexual parents are regularl...
Natural History of Non-operative Management in Asymptomatic Patients with 70%-80% Internal Carotid Artery Stenosis by Duplex Criteria

Objective Treatment of asymptomatic internal carotid artery (ICA) stenosis, particularly for moderate to severe (70%–80%) disease, is controversial. The goal was to assess the clinical course of patients with moderate to severe carotid stenosis. Methods A single institution retrospective analysis of patients with asymptomatic ICA stenosis identified on duplex ultrasound as moderate to severe (70%–80%) from 2003 to 2018 were analysed. Duplex criteria for 70%–80% stenosis was a systolic velocity of ≥325 cm/s or an ICA:common carotid artery ratio of ≥4, and an end diastolic velocity of 80%, ipsilateral stroke/TIA without documented progression, and death. Results In total, 206 carotid arteries were identified in 182 patients meeting the inclusion criteria. Mean patient age was 71.5 years, 57.7% were male, and 67% were white. There were 19 stenoses removed from analysis except for survival analysis as they initially underwent carotid endarterectomy or carotid artery stent based on surgeon/patient preference. Documented progression occurred in 24.1% of stenoses. There were 5.3% of stenoses associated with an ipsilateral stroke/TIA without documented progression, which occurred at a mean of 26.4 months. Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated a 60.3% five year freedom from stenosis progression, 92.5% five year freedom from stroke/TIA without documented progression, and 83.7% five year survival. Risk factors associated with stroke/TIA without documented progression at five years were atrial fibrillation (hazard ratio [HR] 14.87, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.72–81.16; p = .002) and clopidogrel use at index duplex (HR 6.19, 95% CI 1.33–28.83; p = .020). Risk factors associated with death at five years were end stage renal disease (HR 9.67, 95% CI 2.05–45.6; p = .004), atrial fibrillation (HR 7.55, 95% CI 2.48–23; p Conclusion Patients with asymptomatic moderate to severe carotid stenosis had a low rate of stroke/TIA without documented progression. However, there was a high rate of stenosis progression reinforcing the need to follow these patients closely.
Data Mining the Brain to Decode the Mind

In recent years, neuroscience has begun to transform itself into a “big data” enterprise with the importation of computational and statistical techniques from machine learning and informatics. In addition to their translational applications such as brain-computer interfaces and early diagnosis of neuropathology, these tools promise to advance new solutions to longstanding theoretical quandaries. Here I critically assess whether these promises will pay off, focusing on the application of multivariate pattern analysis (MVPA) to the problem of reverse inference. I argue that MVPA does not inherently provide a new answer to classical worries about reverse inference, and that the method faces pervasive interpretive problems of its own. Further, the epistemic setting of MVPA and other decoding methods contributes to a potentially worrisome shift towards prediction and away from explanation in fundamental neuroscience.
Silicon phthalocyanines: synthesis and resurgent applications

The intense far-red absorption and emission features have made silicon phthalocyanines (SiPcs) distinct from the structurally related porphyrin analogues. Unlike most other phthalocyanines, SiPcs possess two additional axial bonds which reduce aggregation in solution and can be synthetically tailored, thereby creating further scope for modulation of optical, chemical and electronic properties. Multiple synthetic strategies have been employed for facile construction of symmetrical or unsymmetrical SiPc variants bearing desired substitutents at the axial and the aromatic ring positions. The overarching motive of this concise review article is to highlight and summarize the key synthetic routes and the fast-emerging applications of SiPcs in photouncaging techniques, photothermal and photoimmunotherapy, photovoltaics, optoelectronics and photocatalysis.