cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nitric oxide mediates neurodegeneration and breakdown of the blood-brain barrier in tPA-dependent excitotoxic injury in mice.

Stroke and many neurodegenerative diseases culminate in neuronal death through a mechanism known as excitotoxicity. Excitotoxicity proceeds through a complex signaling pathway that includes the participation of the serine protease tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). tPA mediates neurotoxic effects on resident central nervous system cells as well alters blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability, which further promotes neurodegeneration. Another signaling molecule that promotes neurodegeneration and BBB dysfunction is nitric oxide (NO), although its precise role in pathological progression remains unclear. We examine here the potentially interrelated roles of tPA, NO and peroxynitrite (ONOO–), which is the toxic metabolite of NO, in BBB breakdown and neurodegeneration following intrahippocampal injection of the glutamate analog kainite (KA). We find that NO and ONOO– production are linked to tPA-mediated excitotoxic injury, and demonstrate that NO provision suffices to restore the toxic effects of KA in tPA-deficient mice that are normally resistant to excitotoxicity. NO also promotes BBB breakdown and excitotoxicity. Interestingly, BBB breakdown in itself does not suffice to elicit neurodegeneration; a subsequent ONOO–-mediated event is required. In conclusion, NO and ONOO– function as downstream effectors of tPA-mediated excitotoxicity.
Observations of Ubiquitous Small-Scale Structure in the Diffuse Interstellar Medium

We present results of a study of the Na I D interstellar absorption toward 17 binary and/or common proper-motion systems (including two triples). The stars range in spectral type from O6 to A5, lie at distances between 85 and 1200 pc, and have stellar separations between 480 and 29,000 AU. We compare the Na I absorption present in each of the two (or three) lines of sight and find that the line strength and/or profile varies for all 17 of the systems examined. We infer that small-scale structure in clouds containing Na I is ubiquitous and discuss the implications of that conclusion.
Opiate Receptor Subtypes in the Rat Hypothalamus and Neurointermediate Lobe

The potent opiate radioligands [3H]etorphine, [3H]ethylketocyclazocine (EKC), and [3H]naloxone, bound specifically and saturably to a single class of membrane-binding sites in rat neurointermediate lobe (NIL), with Kd values of 3.7, 24, and 51 nM, respectively. In the hypothalamus (Ht), [3H] etorphine bound to specific and saturable sites with a Kd of 2.9 nM. Binding-inhibition studies with [3H]etorphine and unlabeled etorphine-HCl as well as [3H]EKC and unlabeled EKC, revealed high and low affinity binding sites in rat Ht and NIL as well as in the neural lobe of the bovine pituitary gland. [3H] naloxone also bound specifically to two classes of sites in Ht membranes, but to only a single class of low affinity sites in NIL membranes. Specific binding represented 80-90% of total [3H] etorphine binding, about 75% of total [3H]EKC binding, and 45–55% of total [3H]naloxone binding at 22 C in NIL and Ht, respectively. Relative binding potencies derived from K; values for bindinginhibition studies of [3H]etorph...
The effect of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 on the growth of soft-tissue sarcoma cells as mediated by the vitamin D receptor

Background: Soft-tissue sarcomas, malignant neoplasms originating from mesenchymal tissue, are rare but highly aggressive tumors. Present modes of therapy are associated with high rates of recurrence. 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3, the active metabolite of vitamin D, serves as a potent antiproliferative agent in human cancer cells.
Solid-State 13C NMR Reveals Effects of Temperature and Hydrationon Elastin

Elastin is the principal protein component of the elastic fiber in vertebrate tissue. The waters of hydration in the elastic fiber are believed to play a critical role in the structure and function of this largely hydrophobic, amorphous protein. (13)C CPMAS NMR spectra are acquired for elastin samples with different hydration levels. The spectral intensities in the aliphatic region undergo significant changes as 70% of the water in hydrated elastin is removed. In addition, dramatic differences in the CPMAS spectra of hydrated, lyophilized, and partially dehydrated elastin samples over a relatively small temperature range (-20 degrees C to 37 degrees C) are observed. Results from other experiments, including (13)C T(1) and (1)H T(1 rho) measurements, direct polarization with magic-angle spinning, and static CP of the hydrated and lyophilized elastin preparations, also support the model that there is significant mobility in fully hydrated elastin. Our results support models in which water plays an integral role in the structure and proper function of elastin in vertebrate tissue.
The Internal Medicine Clerkship and Ambulatory Learning Experiences: Results of the 2010 Clerkship Directors in Internal Medicine Survey

Background: Education in the ambulatory setting should be an integral part of undergraduate medical education. However, previous studies have shown education in this setting has been lacking in medical school. Ambulatory education occurs on some internal medicine clerkships. The extent of this education is unclear. Purpose: The purpose of this survey was to assess the structure, curriculum, assessment methods, and barriers to implementation of ambulatory education on the internal medicine clerkship. Methods: An annual survey of institutional members of the Clerkship Directors in Internal Medicine (CDIM) was done in April 2010. The data were anonymous and descriptive statistics were used to summarize responses. Free text results were analyzed using qualitative techniques. Results: The response rate was 75%. The majority of respondents had a required ambulatory component to the clerkship. Ambulatory experiences distinct from the inpatient internal medicine experience were common (46%). Integration with eith...
Functional imaging of estrogen receptors with radiolabeled-GAP-EDL in rabbit endometriosis model

Rationale and Objectives Endometriosis is a common women’s health problem. Animal models provide an invaluable tool to study the natural history of endometriosis. We previously have reported that 99mTc-labeled glutamate peptide-estradiol (99mTc-GAP-EDL) is a useful agent for imaging functional estrogen receptor (ER) via an ER-mediated process. This study was to evaluate the feasibility of using radiolabeled GAP-EDL to image ER-positive (ER +) endometriosis in nonprimate animal models. Materials and Methods 3-Aminoethyl estradiol (EDL) was conjugated to glutamate peptide (GAP) to yield GAP-EDL. In vitro cellular uptake studies of 99mTc and 68Ga-GAP-EDL inhibition with cold estrone were conducted in 13,762 rat mammary tumor cells. To create a rabbit model with endometriosis, part of uterine tissue was dissected and grafted in the peritoneal wall. Eight weeks after surgery, scintigraphic images were obtained after intravenous injection of 99mTc-GAP-EDL (1 mCi/rabbit, intravenous) at 0.5–2.0 hours, and 68Ga-GAP-EDL at 45 minutes. We also performed 68Ga-GAP-EDL blocking study in rabbit model by using tamoxifen. The rabbits were sacrificed and the grafts were excised for histologic examination. Results In vitro uptake study of 99mTc- and 68Ga-GAP-EDL in 13,762 rat breast cancer cells showed gradually increasing uptake of both tracers. Accumulation of 68Ga-GAP-EDL in 13,762 cells was inhibited with cold estrone in a dose-dependent manner. In the endometriosis model, the grafted uterine tissue could be visualized by 99mTc-GAP-EDL. Necropsy was performed at 2.5 hours after injection time. Four follicular endometrial lesions in eight implanted endometrial tissues were detected, and all lesions could be detected by 99mTc-GAP-EDL. Planar scintigraphy of uterus, ovary and implants of necropsy specimen revealed an increased uptake of 99mTc-GAP-EDL in comparison with surrounding abdominal wall tissue. Microscopic examinations support that 99mTc-GAP-EDL was accumulated in the microinvasive endometrial tissue. After blocking with tamoxifen, 68Ga-GAP-EDL accumulation in the endometrial grafts could not be visualized, and endometrial tissue-to-normal tissue count ratios were statistically higher in a nonblocked image than that in the blocked image. Conclusions Endometriosis uptake of radiolabeled GAP-EDL was via an estrogen receptor-mediated process. Radiolabeled-GAP-EDLs are useful agents for imaging endometriosis.
Intraindividual reproducibility of nasal allergic responses to diesel exhaust particles indicates a susceptible phenotype.

Abstract Previous research indicates that diesel exhaust particles (DEP) can augment allergen- driven allergic responses. In vivo nasal challenge offers a practical method to characterize variation in response to pulmonary toxicants and immunogens. We investigated the reproducibility of responses to determine whether susceptibility to DEP's adjuvant effects is intrinsic or extrinsic. Eighteen nonsmoking rhinitic volunteers with positive skin tests to ragweed were randomly assigned to allergen/placebo or allergen + DEP nasal challenge; after 30 days, the other “arm” was completed. We replicated the procedure 30 days later. Nasal washes were performed after challenge, and allergen-specific IgE and cytokines were measured by ELISA. Repeated challenge with allergen+DEP, but not allergen/placebo, produced reproducible responses for IgE, IL-4, and INF-γ. DEPs ability to enhance allergic responses was highly reproducible within individuals and was independent from response to allergen, suggesting that susceptibility to DEPs adjuvant effects is an intrinsic trait that can be quantified using combined allergen + DEP challenges.
Life cycle assessment of residential heating and cooling systems in four regions in the United States

Abstract Heating and cooling systems consume the most energy and are the largest source of emissions in the entire life cycle of a house. This study compares the life cycle impacts of three residential heating and cooling systems—warm-air furnace and air-conditioner, hot water boiler and air-conditioner, and air–air heat pump over a 35-year study period. Simulation and life cycle assessment studies of the systems at four locations in the United States, namely Minnesota, Oregon, Pennsylvania and Texas determine the effect of regional variations in climate, energy mix, and the standard building characteristics on the systems’ environmental impacts. In Minnesota, Pennsylvania, and Texas, the heat pump has the highest impacts whereas in Oregon the heat pump has the lowest impacts. A second scenario shows that substitution by high-efficiency equipment reduces the impacts of all systems but does not affect the order of relative performance by region. Another scenario examined the replacement of coal-generated electricity by renewable generation in regional grids. In order to reduce the impacts of the heat pump system to the lowest of the three systems, renewable sources would have to replace 42% of electricity generation in Minnesota, 15% in Pennsylvania, and 38% in Texas.
Robust optimisation of forest transportation networks: a case study

Forest transportation costs are the major cost component for many forest product supply chains. In order to minimise these costs, many organisations have turned to optimisation models to guide decisions that are extremely complex in nature. These models generally assume that input parameters are known with certainty, but in reality they are often associated with a high degree of uncertainty. One way of dealing with uncertainty is through robust optimisation, a procedure which is capable of generating near-optimal solutions that are relatively unaffected by the surrounding uncertainty. We illustrate this by means of a case study that employs a robust optimisation procedure. Our procedure employs a two-phase approach. The first phase creates a more tractable problem by limiting the search to those solutions that are near optimal and feasible. The second phase simulates the affect of uncertainty on the solutions isolated in the previous phase. The simulation results are then evaluated for robustness by means...
COMPLEX: a computational lexicon for natural language systems

Although every natural language system needs a computational lexicon, each system puts different amounts and types of information into its lexicon according to its individual needs. However, some of the information needed across systems is shared or "identical" information. This paper presents our experience in planning and building COMPLEX, a computational lexicon designed to be a repository of shared lexical information for use by Natural Language Processing (NLP) systems. We have drawn primarily on explicit and implicit information from machine-readable dictionaries (MRD's) to create a broad coverage lexicon.
New angles for NMR studies of biological molecules.

The biological functions of membrane-associated molecules are closely related to their conformations. The use of variable angle sample spinning (VASS) in the NMR studies of these molecules facilitates the extraction of structural information.
Role of RPOS Regulon in Resistance to Oxidative Stress and Near- UV Radiation In ΔOXYR Suppressor Mutants of ESCHERICHIA COLI

Escherichia coli delta oxyR mutants are hyper-sensitive to oxidative agents but this sensitivity is reversed to hyper-resistance in delta oxyR suppressor strains (delta oxyRsup; Greenberg, J.T. and Demple, B. 1988. EMBO J. 7:2611-2618). Also, delta oxyR mutants have increased mutation rates that are also reversed in delta oxyRsup. We now report that the rpoS regulon may have a role in determining hyper-resistance and loss of hyper-mutability of delta oxyRsup. Delta oxyRsup cells were also resistant to near-ultraviolet radiation (near-UV) and survived longer in stationary phase than delta oxyR cells. In delta oxyRsup cells elevated beta-galactosidase expression from a rpoS::lacZ promoter fusion and significant overproduction of RpoS protein was observed. These increases were accompanied by substantial elevation in transcription of rpoS-dependent genes as determined by beta-galactosidase expression from katE::lacZ, dps::lacZ, and xthA::lacZ promoters. Catalase HPI and HPII activities were also increased. When rpoS::Tn10 was transduced into delta oxyRsup, phenotypes switched back to hyper-sensitive, hyper-mutable and reduced catalases I and II. Individual delta oxyR colonies exhibited significant clonal variability in beta-galactosidase expression from rpoS::lacZ promoter. These results provide further evidence of the functional and regulatory overlap between two major anti-oxidant defense systems of bacteria.
Global versus local processing in haptic perception of form

Preliminary experiments on a “tactile analog” of Navon’s (1977) global/local pattern-identification task are reported. Sighted, early-blind, and late-blind subjects were exposed to large shapes comprised of different, smaller geometric forms, and were asked to “name the shape.” In addition, groups of early- and late-blind subjects attempted identification of conflict braille stimuli, with large braille patterns made up of smaller, standard braille. The pattern of responses was neither totally local nor global for geometric-form information. Braille, however, was size specific, with most early-blind subjects responding locally. Visual and haptic experience altered the pattern of responses for both braille and geometric forms.
Temporal association of entomopathogenic nematodes (Rhabditida: Steinernematidae and Heterorhabditidae) and bacteria

Galleria mellonella L. larvae were infected with three species (seven strains) of Steinernema spp. or three species (three strains) of Heterorhabditis spp. Infected larvae were incubated at 22, 27, and 32 degrees C. Larvae were dorsally dissected every 6h over a 48-h period. Hemolymph was collected and streaked on tryptic soy agar plates. Several non-symbiotic bacterial species were identified from infected insect cadavers: Enterobacter gergoviae, Vibrio spp., Pseudomonas fluorescens type C, Serratia marcescens, Citrobacter freundii, and Serratia proteomaculans. At 18-24 h incubation, the nematode-associated symbiont occurred almost exclusively. Bacterial associates generally appeared outside the 18-24 h window. Infective juveniles of Steinernema feltiae (Filipjev) (27), Steinernema riobrave Cabanillas, Poinar, and Raulston (Oscar), or Steinernema carpocapsae (Weiser) (Kapow) were left untreated, or surface sterilized using thimerosal, then pipetted under sterile conditions onto tryptic soy agar plates. Several additional species of associated bacteria were identified using this method compared with the less extensive range of species isolated from infected G. mellonella. There was no difference in bacterial species identified from non-sterile or surface sterilized nematodes, suggesting that the bacteria identified originated from either inside the nematode or between second and third stage juvenile cuticles. Infective juveniles of S. feltiae (Cowles), S. carpocapsae (Cowles), and H. bacteriophora Poinar (Cowles) were isolated from field samples. Nematodes were surface-sterilized using sodium hypochlorite, mixed with G. mellonella hemolymph, and pipetted onto Biolog BUG (with blood) agar. Only the relevant symbionts were isolated from the limited number of samples available. The nematodes were then cultured in the laboratory for 14 months (sub-cultured in G. mellonella 7-times). Other Enterobacteriaceae could then be isolated from the steinernematid nematodes including S. marcescens, Salmonella sp., and E. gergoviae, indicating the ability of the nematodes to associate with other bacteria in laboratory culture.
Multilevel Nonvolatile Memories Based on Nanowire / Molecular Wire Heterostructures

Nonvolatile nanoscale memories with ultra-long retention times have been demonstrated for both binary and multilevel applications. These devices were based on nanowires functionalized with a self- assembled monolayer of redox active molecular wires, where the bit was represented by the charge stored in the redox molecules and the nanowire conductance was used as the readout. Our devices exhibited reliable operation, on/off ratios ∼ 10 4 and retention times ∼ one month, one of the longest retention times ever achieved with nanoscale devices. These devices were further tailored for multilevel data storage with appreciable noise margins, representing a new concept for functional devices. Our work clearly demonstrates the potential of combining nanowires and molecular wires for superior performance.
Lexical Learning in Sung and Spoken Story Script Contexts.

Although most children seem to love music, our understanding of the role it plays in facilitating speech and language learning is limited, as is research validating its efficacy in the clinical set...
Effects of encoding tasks on the own-age face recognition bias.

ABSTRACT In the current study, we evaluated the own-age face recognition bias by using various encoding tasks to evaluate the robustness and potential limitations of the own-age bias. One hundred sixty young adults studied photographs of children, young adults, middle-aged adults, and older adults and were assigned to one of four encoding conditions (i.e., age estimate, attractiveness rating, friendliness rating, and a face search task). Subsequent recognition tests revealed a robust own-age bias such that participants recognized own-age faces better than other-age faces regardless of encoding task. The current study showed that encoding tasks that focus on socially relevant characteristics (i.e., attractiveness ratings and friendliness ratings) do not eliminate or weaken the own-age bias compared to tasks that specifically focus on the age of the face. These findings indicate that in-group/out-group categorization requires little conscious processing and may be automatic, which is consistent with Sporer'...
Novel route to hydroxy(keto)ethylene dipeptide isosteres through the reaction of N-tBOC-β-lactams with enolates

Abstract Ring-opening coupling reactions of (3R,4S)-1- t BOC-3-silyloxy-4-substituted-azetidin-2-ones with lithium enolates of ketones and esters take place smoothly to give the corresponding hydroxy(keto)ethylene dipeptide isosteres in high yields.
MRI estimation of the arterial input function in mice1

Abstract Rational and Objectives. Dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) MRI offers the potential to provide quantitative maps of tumor perfusion parameters and is therefore expected to play an important role in the study of cancer in small animal models. Extraction of such information from DCE-MRI data requires a methodology for determination of the arterial input function (AIF) for the target tissues. An MRI based method for observation of the AIF in a mouse model is demonstrated in the present report. Materials and Methods. A series of short-axis cardiac images was acquired during the first pass of a bolus of Gadodiamide using a low-resolution, EEG-gated, saturation-recovery gradient echo imaging sequence. The AIF was then extracted from the observed signal intensity changes in the left ventricle (LV) blood pool. Results. The proposed technique provides sufficient temporal and spatial resolution to accurately characterize the AIF of Gadodiamide in mouse models. The AIF was observed in 4 mice and was found to be qualitatively similar to that previously observed in larger animals. However, significant inter-animal variability in the precise form of the AIF was evident. Conclusions. The proposed method for determination of AIF in mice has been shown to be effective and reliable. The inter-animal variability observed in the present study suggests that the AIF should be measured in each animal undergoing analysis by DCE-MRI.
Population pressure, agricultural intensification and changes in rural systems in Bangladesh

Abstract Sustainable agricultural growth is the key to rural system changes that include changes in rural bio-physical environment, economic infrastructure and social conditions. The present study has examined the temporal changes in 18 selected indicators of rural systems in Bangladesh during the period 1975–2000, and explored the influences of demographic, market forces, environmental, institutional and technological factors inducing and mediating such changes. An analysis of 64 district level published census data showed significant increase in agricultural intensity, cropping patterns, land productivity and farm income; decline in labor and technological productivities; and major improvement in rural housing, economic and social conditions during this period. Spatially, major agricultural growth and rural development were observed in districts with high population density, less constrained environments, and better access to markets, irrigation canals, and capital loans.
Green tea extract inhibits chemokine production, but up-regulates chemokine receptor expression, in rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts and rat adjuvant-induced arthritis

Objective. Evaluation of the efficacy of green tea extract (GTE) in regulating chemokine production and chemokine receptor expression in human RA synovial fibroblasts and rat adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA). Methods. Fibroblasts isolated from human RA synovium were used in the study. Regulated upon activation normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES)/CCL5, monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1/CCL2, growth-regulated oncogene (GRO)a/CXCL1 and IL-8/CXCL8 production was measured by ELISA. Western blotting was used to study the phosphorylation of protein kinase C (PKC)d and c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK). Chemokine and chemokine receptor expression was determined by quantitative RT–PCR. The benefit of GTE administration in rat AIA was determined. Results. GTE (2.5–40mg/ml) inhibited IL-1b-induced MCP-1/CCL2 (10 ng/ml), RANTES/CCL5, GROa/CXCL1 and IL-8/CXCL8 production in human RA synovial fibroblasts (P < 0.05). However, GTE inhibited MCP-1/CCL2 and GROa/CXCL1 mRNA synthesis in RA synovial fibroblasts. Furthermore, GTE also inhibited IL-1b-induced phosphorylation of PKCd, the signalling pathway mediating IL-1b-induced chemokine production. Interestingly, GTE preincubation enhanced constitutive and IL-1b-induced CCR1, CCR2b, CCR5, CXCR1 and CXCR2 receptor expression. GTE administration (200 mg/kg/day p.o.) modestly ameliorated rat AIA, which was accompanied by a decrease in MCP-1/CCL2 and GROa/CXCL1 levels and enhanced CCR-1, -2, -5 and CXCR1 receptor expression in the joints of GTE administered rats. Conclusions. Chemokine receptor overexpression with reduced chemokine production by GTE may be one potential mechanism to limit the overall inflammation and joint destruction in RA.
Absent or undetected? Effects of non-detection of species occurrence on wildlife-habitat models

Abstract Presence–absence data are used widely in analysis of wildlife–habitat relationships. Failure to detect a species’ presence in an occupied habitat patch is a common sampling problem when the population size is small, individuals are difficult to sample, or sampling effort is limited. In this paper, the influence of non-detection of occurrence on parameter estimates of logistic regression models of wildlife–habitat relationships was assessed using analytical analysis and simulations. Two patterns of non-detection were investigated: (1) a random distribution of non-detection among occupied patches; and (2) a non-random distribution of non-detection in which the probability of detecting a species in an occupied patch covaried with measurable habitat variables. Our results showed that logistic regression models of wildlife–habitat relationships were sensitive to even low levels of non-detection in occupancy data. Both analytic and simulation studies show that non-detection yields bias in parameter estimation of logistic regression models. More importantly, the direction of bias was affected by the underlying pattern of non-detection and whether the habitat variable was positively or negatively related to occupancy. For a positive habitat coefficient, a random distribution of non-detection yielded negative bias in estimation, whereas linkage of the probability of non-detection to habitat covariates produced positive bias. For a negative habitat coefficient, the pattern was reversed, with a random distribution of non-detection leading to positive bias in estimation. A release–recapture livetrapping study of small mammals in central Indiana, USA, was used to illustrate the magnitude of non-detection in a typical field sampling protocol with varying levels of sampling intensity. Estimates of non-detection error ranged from 0 to 23% for seven species after 5 days of sampling. We suggest that for many sampling situations, relationships between probability of detection and habitat covariates need to be established to correctly interpret results of wildlife–habitat models.
Diverse Origin of Intimal Cells: Smooth Muscle Cells, Myofibroblasts, Fibroblasts, and Beyond?

The formation of vascular lesions is invariably associated with the accumulation of mesenchymal cells and their products in the intima, which either compromise the vessel lumen or contribute to retention of atherogenic molecules (reviewed in References 1 and 2).1,2⇓ As a result, pathological intimal hyperplasia is pivotal in the development of a wide range of clinical conditions, which are associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Nonetheless, the origin of intimal cells has remained a controversial issue in vascular biology and clinical cardiology. In addition to the expansion of preexisting intimal cells, the initial hypothesis argued for phenotypic modulation of medial smooth muscle cells (SMCs) from a contractile to a synthetic phenotype (dedifferentiation), resulting in their migration into the intima.3,4⇓ Several recent investigations, however, have shed new light on the mechanisms of arterial remodeling, coronary restenosis after transcatheter interventions, and vein graft changes after arterialization, which are accompanied by marked alterations in cellular composition of the affected vessel. Understanding how the vasculature alters its composition holds the key to discerning vascular responses under physiological and pathological conditions (Figure 1). In a recent issue of Circulation Research , Hu and colleagues5 join this quest, focusing on the origin of intimal cells during vein graft remodeling. In contrast to numerous observations after arterial injury, there are relatively few studies of vein graft remodeling under dyslipidemic conditions, making the analysis of vein grafts in apoE-deficient mice clearly relevant. In different types of transgenic animals, the authors demonstrated that intima of venous isografts appeared to contain SMC-like cells originating from both donor and recipient, with no apparent contribution of bone marrow-derived cells. These findings suggest vascular-bed dependent differences in the mechanisms of repair and remodeling. They also underscore the diverse cellular origin of intimal hyperplasia, which may originate from …
Proabsorptive effect of gum arabic in isotonic solutions orally administered to rats: effect on zinc and other solutes.

We have previously shown that the addition of gum arabic (GA) to oral rehydration solution (ORS) enhances water and electrolyte absorption during jejunal perfusion in rats under anesthesia. This study investigates whether GA by oral administration could be equally effective in rats. Isotonic solutions containing 25 g/L GA (AG), or without GA (A0) were administered via oral tube to lightly anesthetized adult female rats. Similar experiments were conducted with hypertonic solutions containing no GA (B0), or either 10 (B10) or 50 g/L GA (B50). Blood concentrations of sodium, glucose, glutamate, zinc, and tritiated water were determined at 0, 15, 30, 60, 90, 120, and 180 minutes, and results between treatments were compared. Administration of the isotonic, GA-containing solution (AG) resulted in a higher blood zinc level than with the isotonic GA-free solution (A0) from 15 minutes throughout 180 minutes. Blood zinc at 15 minutes (means ± SEM) was as follows: for A0: 69.3 ± 2.0, for AG: 83.4 ± 3.5 nmol/L, P= 0.002. At 180 minutes, A0: 52.6 ± 1.8; AG: 68.1 ± 4.6 nmol/L, P= 0.004. The corresponding areas under the curve (AUC) were as follows: for A0: 10,737 ± 214; for AG: 13,919 ± 765 nmol × min/L, P< 0.001). Glucose, glutamate, sodium, and tritiated water body distribution presented no differences in blood concentrations. For sodium and tritiated water body distribution, there was a significant time effect (P< 0.0001). In hypertonic solutions, blood zinc levels declined over time, possibly due to their osmotic, counter-absorptive action, thus obscuring possible opposite effects of GA. GA appears to be an effective enhancer of zinc absorption when orally administered in isotonic solutions to laboratory animals. This proabsorptive capacity could be attributed to some of the physicochemical and biochemical properties of GA and suggest possible applications of GA in liquid formulas and solid food preparations.
A Parallel Simulator for Quantum Fault Tolerance in the Presence of Correlated Errors

Summary form only given. The only realistic means to assess the reliability of a fault tolerant quantum circuit is through simulation. Quantum circuit simulators use Monte Carlo (MC) strategy to randomly sample possible error scenarios using a random number generator. Monte Carlo simulation can be conducted in parallel, but it requires a large amount of CPU cycles and a fair amount of time. All quantum circuit simulators assume a Markovian quantum error model. The simulator we are currently developing uses a combinatorial model and the simulation is carried out in parallel. The simulator is driven by a component which triggers noise events based upon the noise model for a particular physical implementation of quantum gates.
Mircea Eliade and Humanistic Anthropology

David Carrasco and Jean Marie Swanberg. eds. Waiting for the Dawn: Mircea Eliade in Perspective. Boulder: Westview Press, 1985. xii-139 pp. $20.00 (hardbound)
Reconfigurable antennas and distributed bit loading for MIMO ad-hoc networks

In this work we evaluate the performance impact of reconfigurable antennas in a Multiple-Input Multiple-Output ad-hoc network where the links are allowed to transmit at the same time and interfere with each other. To achieve this goal, we have used two Reconfigurable Circular Patch Antennas (RCPA) to take channel measurements in a 3-link topology. To quantify the performance, instead of using Shannon capacity, we restrict the links to use an integer number of bits per transmission, with constraints on an application-imposed BER, as well as total available power per link. As the focus of this paper is on ad-hoc networks, we present iterative algorithms that achieve antenna configuration selection as well as bit and power loading in a distributed manner. By using an integer number of bits as well as SINR-based BER constraints, we aim to provide a realistic evaluation of the performance impact of reconfigurable antennas in a MIMO ad-hoc network.
The nitric oxide synthase inhibitor NG-nitro-l-arginine decreases defibrillation-induced free radical generation

Objectives: To demonstrate that nitric oxide (NO) contributes to free radical generation after epicardial shocks and to determine the effect of a nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor, N G -nitro-L-arginine (L-NNA), on free radical generation. Background: Free radicals are generated by direct current shocks for defibrillation. NO reacts with the superoxide (O2 + � ) radical to form peroxynitrite (O� /NOO � ), which is toxic and initiates additional free radical generation. The contribution of NO to free radical generation after defibrillation is not fully defined. Methods and results: Fourteen open chest dogs were studied. In the initial eight dogs, 40 J damped sinusoidal monophasic epicardial shocks was administered. Using electron paramagnetic resonance, we monitored the coronary sinus concentration of ascorbate free radical (Asc + � ), a measure of free radical generation (total oxidative flux). Epicardial shocks were repeated after L-NNA, 5 mg/kg IV. In six additional dogs, immunohistochemical staining was done to identify nitrotyrosine, a marker of reactive nitrogen species-mediated injury, in post-shock myocardial tissue. Three of these dogs received L-NNA preshock. After the initial 40 J shock, Asc + � rose 399 /2.5% from baseline. After L-NNA infusion, a similar 40 J shock caused Asc + � to increase only 29 /3% from baseline (P B/0.05, post-L-NNA shock versus initial shock). Nitrotyrosine staining was more prominent in
Sound production and associated behavior in a cichlid fish, Cichlasoma centrarchus. I. Male-male interactions.

Zusammenfassung Das Verhalten zwischen je zwei C. centrarchus-♂♂ wurde daraufhin untersucht, ob Laute auftraten und ob solche Laute der Verstandigung zwischen den Tieren dienen. Die Laute, die produziert wurden, waren gleichartiges tiefes Knurren; es gab individuelle Unterschiede in der Dauer und im zeitlichen Muster des Knurrens. Diese Laute sind nicht zufallsverteilt, sondern stark mit aggressivem Verhalten korreliert. Diese Korrelation besteht auch zum Verhalten, das auf den Laut folgt; Angriffe folgen viel ofter auf Verhalten mit als auf solches ohne Lautproduktion, auch ist die Reaktion anderer Tiere darauf unterschiedlich. Auf lautlose Verhaltensweisen reagieren sie meist “nachahmend”, auf Laute meist “vermeidend”, selten “drohend”. Informationstheoretische Analyse bewies, das die ubermittelte Informationsmenge anders war, wenn die Tiere einander horen und sehen konnten, als wenn sie einander nur sehen konnten. Es scheint, das Laute aggressives Verhalten im Empfanger hemmen. Im naturlichen Lebensraum benutzt C. centrarchus wahrscheinlich Laute, um Artgenossen vom Eindringen in ihr Revier, Rivalisieren um Nahrung oder Storen der Brut abzuschrecken. Vielleicht dient akustische Verstandigung zwischen verschiedenen Arten denselben Zwecken.
Staining Mast Cells for Morphometric Evaluation on an Image Analysis System

Multiple skin sections from three nonhuman primates (Macaca mulatta) and three hairless guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) were stained with 12 different histologic stains to determine whether mast cells could be selectively stained for morphometric analysis using an image analysis system (IAS). Sections were first evaluated with routine light microscopy for mast cell granule staining and the intensity of background staining. Methylene blue-basic fuchsin and Unna's method for mast cells (polychrome methylene blue with differentiation in glycerin-ether) stained mast cell granules more intensely than background in both species. Toluidine blue-stained sections in the guinea pig yielded similar results. Staining of the nuclei of dermal connective tissue was enhanced with the methylene blue-basic fuchsin and toluidine blue stains. These two stains, along with the Unna's stain, were further evaluated on an IAS with and without various interference filters (400.5–700.5 nm wavelengths). In both the methylene blue-basi...
Correlation between a pollen challenge chamber and a natural allergen exposure study design for eliciting ocular and nasal symptoms: early evidence supporting a paradigm shift in drug investigation?

Environmental exposure units (EEUs) have been used extensively for well over 25 years. Initially, they were used to investigate occupational exposures but were subsequently adapted to investigate treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) and, more recently, perennial allergic rhinitis with antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, nasal antihistamines, and immunotherapy. Studies investigating treatments for SAR were able to successfully demonstrate the onset of action and efficacy of these different therapeutic agents compared with placebo. Clinical trials designed with EEUs have several distinct advantages for conducting SAR studies over traditional study designs, which typically are conducted in a park setting over 24 to 48 hours or over a 2to 4-week timeframe during the natural allergy season. First and foremost, the EEU can eliminate confounding variables, such as other potential airborne allergens (eg, mold spores), and environmental factors (eg, air pollution and weather conditions) that cannot be regulated during the natural allergy season. Second, the EEU allows for the delivery of precise levels of airborne pollen in a controlled atmosphere (eg, temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure) to ensure adequate exposure during the study exposure period. This is important because many park studies or longitudinal SAR studies often are hampered by unpredictable pollen levels that can frequently thwart attempts to compare drug efficacy with pollen exposure. Although there are several well-designed EEUs in the United States, Canada, and Europe, there has been little effort thus far to validate the use of these EEUs as surrogates for investigating SAR therapies. A recent workshop that convened June 18, 2010, at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland, to discuss the clinical study design and reliability of outcome measurements of EEUs cited several unmet needs required for validation of EEUs. These included (1) determination of the reproducibility and therefore reliability of EEU clinical trials for assessing treatments for
No free lunch theorems for optimization

A framework is developed to explore the connection between effective optimization algorithms and the problems they are solving. A number of "no free lunch" (NFL) theorems are presented which establish that for any algorithm, any elevated performance over one class of problems is offset by performance over another class. These theorems result in a geometric interpretation of what it means for an algorithm to be well suited to an optimization problem. Applications of the NFL theorems to information-theoretic aspects of optimization and benchmark measures of performance are also presented. Other issues addressed include time-varying optimization problems and a priori "head-to-head" minimax distinctions between optimization algorithms, distinctions that result despite the NFL theorems' enforcing of a type of uniformity over all algorithms.
Robust nanoporous alumina monoliths by atomic layer deposition on low-density carbon-nanotube scaffolds

Synthesis of nanoporous alumina monoliths with controlled morphology and density is a challenge. Here, we demonstrate mechanically robust alumina monoliths synthesized by conformal overcoating of graphitic nanoligaments of low-density carbon-nanotube-based aerogels (CNT-CAs) by using atomic layer deposition. Young’s modulus of resultant monoliths increases superlinearly with the monolith density with an exponent of ∼2.4, defined by the morphology and connectivity of the CNT-CA scaffold. As a result, for a given monolith density, alumina-carbon composites have moduli comparable to those of CNT-CAs and significantly superior to those of pure alumina aerogels reported previously.
Celebrating a legacy, reflecting on the present, and safeguarding our future.

OBJECTIVE. During the 20th century, radiologists enjoyed relationships with clinicians and patients through daily face-to-face communication. As specialist consultants, radiologists were naturally integral members of the care team. CONCLUSION. The widespread availability of information technology, notably PACS, has disrupted the fundamental radiologist-clinician axis. New generations of radiologists must respond to this disturbing trend by (re)learning how to “add value” by rekindling personal professional relationships, developing global leadership skills, and becoming involved in health care system design and implementation.
Measurement of minority electron mobilities in SiGe base region of npn SiGe/Si heterojunction bipolar transistors

Although there have been several theoretical calculations reported on the minority electron mobilities in p-type strained SiGe alloys, experimental data on such mobilities are lacking as their measurement is not straightforward. In this study, temperature-dependent minority electron mobilities in highly doped Si/sub 1-x/Ge/sub x/ (0.2/spl les/x/spl les/0.4) base layers of npn SiGe/Si heterostructure bipolar transistors have been measured for the first time.
Correlates of Extreme Poverty in Rural Ethiopia

This chapter examines the determinants of extreme poverty in rural Ethiopia at the household level using indicators that reflect consumption expenditures, dietary calorie intake, and household assets. The descriptive analyses results indicated that ultra-poverty in the household consumption dimension was positively associated with distance from educational and health facilities, roads, and other infrastructure. The results of an econometric model showed that ultra-poverty was positively and significantly associated with household size and the age of the household head, and inversely associated with the ownership of farming assets and livestock.
Coherent Risk Measure and Normal Mixture Distributions with Application in Portfolio Optimization and Risk Allocation

This paper investigates the coherent risk measure of normal mixture distributions. The main result shows that the mean-risk portfolio optimization problem of some widely-used normal mixture distributions can be reduced to a quadratic programming problem which has closed form of solution by fixing the location parameter and skewness parameter. In addition, the worst-case value at risk in the robust portfolio optimization can also be calculated directly. Finally the conditional value at risk is considered as an example of coherent risk measure; and we obtain the marginal contribution to risk for a portfolio based on normal mixture model.
Speech Practice Effects on Bilingual Children's Fast Mapping Performance.

Learning a new word involves many subsystems and their interactions. The purpose of this study was to examine whether speech practice facilitates the subsequent fast mapping performance of bilingual preschool children. Participants were 18 typically developing preschoolers who learned Cantonese (L1) as a home language and English (L2) as a second language. Each participant was asked to repeat each of the four novel words after an auditory model (speech practice) before he or she was exposed to the novel word-objects in the subsequent fast mapping task. Significant speech practice and language effects on fast mapping production scores were found. These findings suggest a complex relationship between speech learning, fast mapping, and L1–L2 language skills. Our results suggest that clinical methods that facilitate bilingual children's production skills (e.g., repeat after a model) hold promise as a means of improving the initial stage of word learning in both languages.
Localization of RNAPII and 3' end formation factor CstF subunits on C. elegans genes and operons.

ABSTRACTTranscription termination is mechanistically coupled to pre-mRNA 3′ end formation to prevent transcription much beyond the gene 3′ end. C. elegans, however, engages in polycistronic transcription of operons in which 3′ end formation between genes is not accompanied by termination. We have performed RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) and CstF ChIP-seq experiments to investigate at a genome-wide level how RNAPII can transcribe through multiple poly-A signals without causing termination. Our data shows that transcription proceeds in some ways as if operons were composed of multiple adjacent single genes. Total RNAPII shows a small peak at the promoter of the gene cluster and a much larger peak at 3′ ends. These 3′ peaks coincide with maximal phosphorylation of Ser2 within the C-terminal domain (CTD) of RNAPII and maximal localization of the 3′ end formation factor CstF. This pattern occurs at all 3′ ends including those at internal sites in operons where termination does not occur. Thus the normal mechanism ...
Design and Optimizing of Signaling Trace in CDMA2000

This paper expounds the design and the successful optimizing process of the signaling trace of net element management system in CDMA2000,and discusses the problems of the software optimizing,for example,how to find out where we need to optimize,how to optimize the software and how to make use of the existed development experiences.Based on the problems,we provide a series of solutions and measures.Those experiences and measures will be a reference of the software optimizing works.
Content determination of Stachydrine hydrochloride in Herba leonuri particle by HPLC-RID

OBJECTIVE To establish the method for the content determination of Stachydrine hydrochloride in Herba leonuri particle.METHODS The determination was performed on Amino column with acetonitrile-water(volume ratio 80∶20)as mobile phase at the flow rate of 1mL·min-1.Differential refractive index detector(RID) was used,and the column temperature was 40℃.RESULES The linear range of Stachydrine hydrochloride was 0.2mg·mL-1~1mg·mL-1(r=0.9982)with an average recovery of 101.5%(RSD=2.5%,n=6).CONCLUSION The method is specific,accurate and simple,which can be applied as a new way for the content determination of Stachydrine hydrochloride in Yimucao Keli.