cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The crayfish model (Orconectes rusticus), epigenetics and drug addiction research.

Abstract Fundamental signs of epigenetic effects are variations in the expression of genes or phenotypic traits among isogenic mates. Therefore, genetically identical animals are in high demand for epigenetic research. There are many genetically identical animals, including natural parthenogens and inbred laboratory lineages or clones. However, most parthenogenetic animal taxa are very small in combined epigenetic and drug addiction research. Orconectes rusticus has a unique phylogenetic position, with 2–3 years of life span, which undergoes metamorphosis that creates developmental stages with distinctly different morphologies, unique lifestyles, and broad behavioral traits, even among isogenic mates reared in the same environment offer novel inroads for epigenetics studies. Moreover, the establishment of crayfish as a novel system for drug addiction with evidence of an automated, operant self-administration and conditioned-reward, withdrawal, reinstatement of the conditioned drug-induced reward sets the stage to investigate epigenetic mechanisms of drug addiction. We discuss behavioral, pharmacological and molecular findings from laboratory studies that document a broad spectrum of molecular and, behavioral evidence including potential hypotheses that can be tested with the crayfish model for epigenetic study in drug addiction research.
Advanced technology leads to earlier intervention for clinical deterioration on medical/surgical units.

Abstract Objective To determine if enhancements developed to support the use of an electronic Early Warning System (EWS) resulted in quicker stabilization of clinical deterioration. Background Early Warning Systems are effective for alerting nurses to patient deterioration, but have not demonstrated positive clinical impact. An EWS embedded within an electronic medical record (EMR) was enhanced with tools to support nurses' ability to recognize and intervene in a timely manner for signs of deterioration. Methods A comparative design using retrospective EMR review evaluated time patients spent with higher risk EWS scores and time to reassessment after an EWS alert pre-and post-implementation of an enhanced EWS. Results There was a significant (p Conclusion Technology can be leveraged to support nursing practice and clinical decision making around management of clinical deterioration.
Leveraging social media to rapidly recruit a sample of young adults aging out of foster care: Methods and recommendations

Abstract Objective This brief report describes social media-based advertising strategies employed to recruit an anonymous sample of young adults who had recently aged out of foster care to participate in an online survey. Method We disseminated targeted Facebook advertisements and relevant group postings describing a study for young adults who had recently aged out of foster care. Clicking on the ad redirected potential participants to our Qualtrics survey. Results of recruitment approaches with and without incentives, as well as data integrity check methods, are described. Results A sample of 56 young adults with a mean age of 21.2 (SD = 3.3) were enrolled in the study and completed an online questionnaire across two weeks of active recruitment (3 days of engaged survey participation). Participants were 64% female, 18% minority, and represented 16 states from all five regions of the US. Costs for Facebook advertisements and incentives ($5 per participant) disbursed were $3000. Recommendations based on methodological findings are presented. Conclusions Social media can be used to rapidly recruit a sample of young adults across all five regions of the US who have aged out of foster care using incentivized and anonymous survey methods. Methodological features can be utilized to support more efficient and successful data collection.
Deep Learning for Hyperspectral Image Analysis, Part II: Applications to Remote Sensing and Biomedicine

Deep neural networks are emerging as a popular choice for hyperspectral image analysis—compared with other machine learning approaches, they are more effective for a variety of applications in hyperspectral imaging. Part I (Chap. 3) introduces the fundamentals of deep learning algorithms and techniques deployed with hyperspectral images. In this chapter (Part II), we focus on application-specific nuances and design choices with respect to deploying such networks for robust analysis of hyperspectral images. We provide quantitative and qualitative results with a variety of deep learning architectures, and compare their performance to baseline state-of-the-art methods for both remote sensing and biomedical image analysis tasks. In addition to surveying recent developments in these areas, our goal in these two chapters is to provide guidance on how to utilize such algorithms for multichannel optical imagery. With that goal, we also provide code and example datasets used in this chapter.
Convolutional long short-term memory model for recognizing construction workers’ postures from wearable inertial measurement units

Abstract This paper proposes using Deep Neural Networks (DNN) models for recognizing construction workers’ postures from motion data captured by wearable Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs) sensors. The recognized awkward postures can be linked to known risks of Musculoskeletal Disorders among workers. Applying conventional Machine Learning (ML)-based models has shown promising results in recognizing workers’ postures. ML models are limited – they reply on heuristic feature engineering when constructing discriminative features for characterizing postures. This makes further improving the model performance regarding recognition accuracy challenging. In this paper, the authors investigate the feasibility of addressing this problem using a DNN model that, through integrating Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) with Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) layers, automates feature engineering and sequential pattern detection. The model’s recognition performance was evaluated using datasets collected from four workers on construction sites. The DNN model integrating one convolutional and two LSTM layers resulted in the best performance (measured by F1 Score). The proposed model outperformed baseline CNN and LSTM models suggesting that it leveraged the advantages of the two baseline models for effective feature learning. It improved benchmark ML models’ recognition performance by an average of 11% under personalized modelling. The recognition performance was also improved by 3% when the proposed model was applied to 8 types of postures across three subjects. These results support that the proposed DNN model has a high potential in addressing challenges for improving the recognition performance that was observed when using ML models.
Regulation of the ACE2 locus in human airways cells.

The angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor is the gateway for SARS-CoV-2 to airway epithelium and the strong inflammatory response after viral infection is a hallmark in COVID-19 patients. Deciphering the regulation of the ACE2 gene is paramount for understanding the cell tropism of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Here we identify candidate regulatory elements in the ACE2 locus in human primary airway cells and lung tissue. Activating histone and promoter marks and Pol II loading characterize the intronic dACE2 and define novel candidate enhancers distal to the genuine ACE2 promoter and within additional introns. dACE2, and to a lesser extent ACE2, RNA levels increased in primary bronchial cells treated with interferons and this induction was mitigated by Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors that are used therapeutically in COVID-19 patients. Our analyses provide insight into regulatory elements governing the ACE2 locus and highlight that JAK inhibitors are suitable tools to suppress interferon-activated genetic programs in bronchial cells.
Seasonal affective disorder and engagement in physical activities among adults in Alaska.

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression in which symptoms occur during a particular season. While physical activity has been shown to improve symptoms for depression in general po...
Liner development at low technology readiness level utilizing the advanced noise control fan

The Advanced Noise Control Fan (ANCF) was utilized in the design, test, and evaluation for technical risk mitigation for many of the innovative ducted acoustic liner technologies developed by NASA ...
Characterization of multi-scale ionospheric irregularities using ground-based and space-based GNSS observations

Ionospheric irregularities can adversely affect the performance of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). However, this opens the possibility of using GNSS as an effective ionospheric remote sensing tool. Despite ionospheric monitoring has been undertaken for decades, these irregularities in multiple spatial and temporal scales are still not fully understood. This paper reviews Virginia Tech’s recent studies on multi-scale ionospheric irregularities using ground-based and space-based GNSS observations. First, the relevant background of ionospheric irregularities and their impact on GNSS signals is reviewed. Next, three topics of ground-based observations of ionospheric irregularities for which GNSS and other ground-based techniques are used simultaneously are reviewed. Both passive and active measurements in high-latitude regions are covered. Modelling and observations in mid-latitude regions are considered as well. Emphasis is placed on the increased capability of assessing the multi-scale nature of ionospheric irregularities using other traditional techniques (e.g., radar, magnetometer, high frequency receivers) as well as GNSS observations (e.g., Total-Electron-Content or TEC, scintillation). Besides ground-based observations, recent advances in GNSS space-based ionospheric measurements are briefly reviewed. Finally, a new space-based ionospheric observation technique using GNSS-based spacecraft formation flying and a differential TEC method is demonstrated using the newly developed Virginia Tech Formation Flying Testbed (VTFFTB). Based on multi-constellation multi-band GNSS, the VTFFTB has been developed into a hardware-in-the-loop simulation testbed with external high-fidelity global ionospheric model(s) for 3-satellite formation flying, which can potentially be used for new multi-scale ionospheric measurement mission design.
Developing high quality software with formal methods: what else is needed?

In recent years, many formal methods have been proposed for improving software quality. These include new specification and modeling languages, whose purpose is to precisely describe the required software behavior at a high level of abstraction, and formal verification techniques, such as model checking and theorem proving, for mechanically proving or refuting critical properties of the software. Unfortunately, while promising, these methods are rarely used in software practice. This paper describes improvements in languages, specifications and models, code quality, and code verification techniques that could, along with existing formal methods, play a major role in improving software quality.
A switched systems approach to vision-based localization of a target with intermittent measurements

Switched systems theory is used to analyze the stability of vision-based observers for 3D localization of objects in a scene. Observers or filters that are exponentially stable under persistent observability may have unbounded error growth under intermittent sensing loss, even while providing seemingly accurate state estimates. Therefore, conditions are developed based on an average dwell time criteria to guarantee state error convergence with a known decay rate. In cases where sensing is controllable, these conditions relax path constraints for visual servoing applications. The conditions are developed in a general form, applicable to any exponentially stable observer, and utilize object motion knowledge to maximize the allowable time spent in stabilizable, but unobservable, periods.
Michael Oriard on NCAA Academic Reform: Academics Over Dollars

The purpose of this paper is to provide a response to Michael Oriard’s keynote address. The paper highlights the link between monies generated through intercollegiate athletics and calls for academic reforms. There is also need for examination of how increased participant diversity coincided and influenced these dynamics—a connection frequently overlooked.
Affinity Propagation and Uncapacitated Facility Location Problems

One of the most important distinctions that must be made in clustering research is the difference between models (or problems) and the methods for solving those problems. Nowhere is this more evident than with the evaluation of the popular affinity propagation algorithm (apcluster.m), which is a MATLAB implementation of a neural clustering method that has received significant attention in the biological sciences and other disciplines. Several authors have undertaken comparisons of apcluster.m with methods designed for models that fall within the class of uncapacitated facility location problems (UFLPs). These comparative models include the p-center (or K-center) model and, more importantly, the p-median (or K-median) model. The results across studies are conflicting and clouded by the fact that, although similar, the optimization model underlying apcluster.m is slightly different from the p-median model and appreciably different from the pcenter model. In this paper, we clarify that apcluster.m is actually a heuristic for a `maximization version' of another model in the class of UFLPs, which is known as the simple plant location problem (SPLP). An exact method for the SPLP is described, and the apcluster.m program is compared to a fast heuristic procedure (sasplp.m) in both a simulation experiment and across numerous datasets from the literature. Although the exact method is the preferred approach when computationally feasible, both apcluster.m and sasplp.m are efficient and effective heuristic approaches, with the latter slightly outperforming the former in most instances.
In vitro and in vivo spin echo diffusion imaging characteristics of synovial fluid: potential non-invasive differentiation of inflammatory and degenerative arthritis.

Objective. This study was undertaken to analyse the diffusion characteristics of synovial fluid in degenerative and inflammatory arthropathies.
Solid‐state polymerization in poly(butylene terephthalate): The Equilibrium constant

Poly(butylene terephthalate)1 polycondenses readily in the presence of small amounts of organo-titanium compounds to form progressively higher molecular weight polymers, The reaction is reversible in the presence of the condensation byproduct, 1,4-butanediol. Usually this reaction is carried out in the melt phase, but the viscosity is soon limiting. In the current work the polymerization is carried out in the solid phase just below the melting point of 227°C. The equilibrium constant for this reaction is measured by subjecting the polymer to a nitrogen stream saturated with a controlled quantity of butanediol. The reaction is followed by measuring the change in the number of alcoholic end-groups by infrared spectroscopy. At about 220°C the equilibrium constant is 0.31 (σ = 0.08).
Effect of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibition on the incidence of restenosis after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty.

To determine whether angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition may reduce the incidence of restenosis after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA), we retrospectively identified 322 consecutive patients who underwent a successful procedure from June 1988 to December 1989. No patients developed chest pain, ST segment elevation, positive cardiac enzymes, or other evidence of abrupt vessel closure following the PTCA. All patients received intravenous heparin after PTCA and aspirin was begun on the day prior to PTCA. Patients were separated into two groups: those at hospital discharge incidentally treated for hypertension or heart failure with ACE inhibitors (n = 36), and those treated with a drug regimen which did not include ACE inhibitors (n = 286). The two groups were similar with respect to age (61 +/- 13.5 vs. 60 +/- 12.5, p = NS) and other demographic characteristics. Restenosis, defined as the presentation to a physician with symptoms of angina within 6 months of the PTCA and the finding on repeat catheterization of a significant restenosis at the site of the PTCA, occurred in 30% of the patients who were discharged on a drug regimen which did not include ACE inhibitors vs. 3% (p less than .05) in those treated with an ACE inhibitor. Thus, it appears that the use of ACE inhibitors may significantly reduce the incidence of restenosis after successful PTCA.
Sodium and Proton Effects on Inward Proton Transport through Na/K Pumps

The Na/K pump hydrolyzes ATP to export three intracellular Na (Nai) as it imports two extracellular K (Ko) across animal plasma membranes. Within the protein, two ion-binding sites (sites I and II) can reciprocally bind Na or K, but a third site (site III) exclusively binds Na in a voltage-dependent fashion. In the absence of Nao and Ko, the pump passively imports protons, generating an inward current (IH). To elucidate the mechanisms of IH, we used voltage-clamp techniques to investigate the [H]o, [Na]o, and voltage dependence of IH in Na/K pumps from ventricular myocytes and in ouabain-resistant pumps expressed in Xenopus oocytes. Lowering pHo revealed that Ho both activates IH (in a voltage-dependent manner) and inhibits it (in a voltage-independent manner) by binding to different sites. Nao effects depend on pHo; at pHo where no Ho inhibition is observed, Nao inhibits IH at all concentrations, but when applied at pHo that inhibits pump-mediated current, low [Na]o activates IH and high [Na]o inhibits it. Our results demonstrate that IH is a property inherent to Na/K pumps, not linked to the oocyte expression environment, explains differences in the characteristics of IH previously reported in the literature, and supports a model in which 1), protons leak through site III; 2), binding of two Na or two protons to sites I and II inhibits proton transport; and 3), pumps with mixed Na/proton occupancy of sites I and II remain permeable to protons.
MODIS BIOPHYSICAL STATES AND NEXRAD PRECIPITATION IN A STATISTICAL EVALUATION OF ANTECEDENT MOISTURE CONDITION AND STREAMFLOW

The potential of remotely sensed time series of biophysical states of landscape to characterize soil moisture condition antecedent to radar estimates of precipitation is assessed in a statistical prediction model of streamflow in a 1,420 km 2 watershed in south-central Texas, Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) time series biophysical products offer significant opportunities to characterize and quantify hydrologic state variables such as land surface temperature (LST) and vegetation state and status. Together with Next Generation Weather Radar (NEXRAD) precipitation estimates for the period 2002 through 2005, 16 raw and deseasoned time series of LST (day and night), vegetation indices, infrared reflectances, and water stress indices were linearly regressed against observed watershed streamflow on an eight-day aggregated time period. Time offsets of 0 (synchronous with streamflow event), 8, and 16 days (leading streamflow event) were assessed for each of the 16 parameters to evaluate antecedent effects. The model results indicated a reasonable correlation (r 2 = 0.67) when precipitation, daytime LST advanced 16 days, and a deseasoned moisture stress index were regressed against log-transformed streamflow. The estimation model was applied to a validation period from January 2006 through March 2007, a period of 12 months of regional drought and base-flow conditions followed by three months of above normal rainfall and a flood event. The model resulted in a Nash-Sutcliffe estimation efficiency (E) of 0.45 for flow series (in log-space) for the full 15-month period, -0.03 for the 2006 drought condition period, and 0.87 for the 2007 wet condition period. The overall model had a relative volume error of -32%. The contribution of parameter uncertainties to model discrepancy was evaluated.
Enzymic and Non-Enzymic Oxidation in the Brewhouse: A Theoretical Consideration

Comparison of the available kinetic information for the lipoxygenase- and peroxidase-catalysed reactions with that for the non-enzymic activation of oxygen suggests that it is the availability of oxygen which is likely to limit enzymic action in a mash rather than the availability of enzymes, even a heat-labile one such as lipoxygenase.
The Captive Female as Biblical Hero: Rowlandson, Rhetoric, and the Psalms

In her famous 1682 captivity narrative, The Sovereignty and Goodness of God, Mary Rowlandson interlaces the story of her eleven-week captivity among the Wampanoags with about seventy brief biblical...
Four-Dimensional Imaging of E. coli Nucleoid Organization and Dynamics in Living Cells

SUMMARY Visualization of living E. coli nucleoids, defined by HupA-mCherry, reveals a discrete, dynamic helical ellipsoid. Three basic features emerge. (1) Nucleoid density coalesces into longitudinal bundles, giving a stiff, low-DNA-density ellipsoid. (2) This ellipsoid is radially confined within the cell cylinder. Radial confinement gives helical shape and directs global nucleoid dynamics, including sister segregation. (3) Longitudinal density waves flux back and forth along the nucleoid, with 5%‐10% of density shifting within 5 s, enhancing internal nucleoid mobility. Furthermore, sisters separate end-to-end in sequential discontinuous pulses, each elongating the nucleoid by 5%‐15%. Pulses occur at 20 min intervals, at defined cell-cycle times. This progression includes sequential installation and release of programmed tethers, implying cyclic accumulation and relief of intranucleoid mechanical stress. These effects could comprise a chromosome-based cell-cycle engine. Overall, the presented results suggest a general conceptual framework for bacterial nucleoid morphogenesis and dynamics.
“A partnership in virtue among all citizens”:(1) the public service and the civic humanist tradition

It is argued that the Founders’ intentions are most correctly interpreted through the virtue-centered paradigm of civic humanism, with its attendant “ethics of character.” Such an interpretation ha...
Delta undulator model: Magnetic field and beam test results

Abstract A novel type of in-vacuum Elliptical Polarization Undulator (EPU) magnet optimized for linac beam (Delta undulator) was developed at the Laboratory for Elementary-Particle Physics (LEPP) at Cornell University as part of insertion device development for the future Cornell 5 GeV Energy Recovery Source of coherent hard X-rays [1,7]. To evaluate mechanical, vacuum and magnetic properties of the magnet, a short 30 cm model with a 5 mm diameter round gap and a 2.4 cm period was built and tested in LEPP. The beam test of the Delta undulator model was conducted at Accelerator Test Facility (ATF) in BNL with ∼60 MeV linac beam. The beam testing results confirmed basic properties of the undulator magnet obtained through the magnetic field measurement. In the paper we describe the magnet design, techniques and setups used for the magnetic field measurement and the beam testing results.
Sources of sex information and premarital sexual behavior

Abstract Parents and educators have been concerned with the impact of sex education courses and sources of sex information on premarital sexual behavior. This study investigates different sources of sex information, including parents, peers, and others, and how they influence premarital sexual behavior among American college students. This exploratory research is based on the secondary analysis of cross‐sectional data from a national probability sample of 1,177 college students interviewed about their sexual behavior and sexual socialization experiences. Cross‐tabulations between several sources of sex information and a composite index of incidence and prevalence of premarital socio‐sexual involvement are presented. Among females, sexual behavior was influenced in a negative direction by their mothers and in a positive direction by male friends and independent reading. Among males, sexual behavior was influenced in a negative direction by clergymen and in a positive direction by male and female friends an...
Cranial Irradiation Alters Dendritic Spine Density and Morphology in the Hippocampus

Therapeutic irradiation of the brain is a common treatment modality for brain tumors, but can lead to impairment of cognitive function. Dendritic spines are sites of excitatory synaptic transmission and changes in spine structure and number are thought to represent a morphological correlate of altered brain functions associated with hippocampal dependent learning and memory. To gain some insight into the temporal and sub region specific cellular changes in the hippocampus following brain irradiation, we investigated the effects of 10 Gy cranial irradiation on dendritic spines in young adult mice. One week or 1 month post irradiation, changes in spine density and morphology in dentate gyrus (DG) granule and CA1 pyramidal neurons were quantified using Golgi staining. Our results showed that in the DG, there were significant reductions in spine density at both 1 week (11.9%) and 1 month (26.9%) after irradiation. In contrast, in the basal dendrites of CA1 pyramidal neurons, irradiation resulted in a significant reduction (18.7%) in spine density only at 1 week post irradiation. Analysis of spine morphology showed that irradiation led to significant decreases in the proportion of mushroom spines at both time points in the DG as well as CA1 basal dendrites. The proportions of stubby spines were significantly increased in both the areas at 1 month post irradiation. Irradiation did not alter spine density in the CA1 apical dendrites, but there were significant changes in the proportion of thin and mushroom spines at both time points post irradiation. Although the mechanisms involved are not clear, these findings are the first to show that brain irradiation of young adult animals leads to alterations in dendritic spine density and morphology in the hippocampus in a time dependent and region specific manner.
A Subadult Specimen of Rubeosaurus ovatus (Dinosauria: Ceratopsidae), with Observations on Other Ceratopsids from the Two Medicine Formation

Background Centrosaurine ceratopsids are well known from the middle Campanian Upper Two Medicine Formation of Montana. Four taxa have been named: Brachyceratops montanensis, Rubeosaurus ovatus, Einiosaurus procurvicornis, and Achelousaurus horneri. Rubeosaurus has been historically the most enigmatic of these taxa; only two specimens, the holotype caudal parietal bar and a referred incomplete skull, have been assigned to Rubeosaurus. Methodology/Principal Findings A revised interpretation of the parietal processes of USNM 14765, the partial skeleton of a subadult centrosaurine formerly referred to Brachyceratops, indicates that it shares a P5 spike with the holotype of Rubeosaurus ovatus and should therefore be referred to that taxon. Brachyceratops is considered a nomen dubium. Conclusions/Significance USNM 14765 provides additional anatomical information for Rubeosaurus ovatus. These new data are incorporated into a recent phylogenetic analysis of centrosaurine relationships; Rubeosaurus appears as the sister taxon of a clade composed of Einiosaurus, Achelousaurus, and Pachyrhinosaurus.
A question of ethics: Developing information system ethics

This study develops a pedagogy for the teaching of ethical principles in information systems (IS) classes, and reports on an empirical study that supports the efficacy of the approach. The proposed pedagogy involves having management information systems professors lead questioning and discussion on a list of ethical issues as part of their existing IS courses. The rationale for this pedagogy involves (1) the maturational aspects of ethics, and (2) the importance of repetition, challenge, and practice in developing a personal set of ethics. A study of IS ethics using a pre-post test design found that classes receiving such treatment significantly improved their performance on an IS ethics questionnaire.
Comparative safety and efficacy of a sirolimus-eluting versus paclitaxel-eluting stent: a meta-analysis.

Background Drug-eluting stents have emerged as the favored device for percutaneous coronary intervention. It is not clear if there are differences in the currently available drug-eluting stents. We performed a meta-analysis to systematically evaluate currently available data comparing sirolimus-eluting stents (SESs) with paclitaxel-eluting stents (PESs) in patients with coronary artery disease. Methods We searched the MEDLINE, Embase, ISI Web of Knowledge, Current Contents, and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts databases, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, as well as scientific meeting abstracts up to November 30, 2006. All randomized controlled trials comparing SES with PES and providing follow-up data of ≥6 months were eligible for inclusion in our analysis. Results Data from 12 trials (number of patients 7455) were pooled. There was no difference in death (summary odds ratio [OR] 0.88, 95% CI 0.61-1.25, P = .46), myocardial infarction (summary OR 0.92, 95% CI, 0.71-1.19, P = .51), or stent thrombosis (summary OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.40-1.40, P = .37) between SES and PES. The use of SES was associated with a significant reduction in angiographic restenosis (summary OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.52-0.78, P P = .002), or target lesion revascularization (summary OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.53-0.84, P = .001). Conclusions Patients treated with SES appear to have a significantly lower risk of restenosis and need for target vessel revascularization compared with those treated with PES. There is no significant difference between the 2 stents with respect to mortality, myocardial infarction, or early stent thrombosis.
The effect of anaesthetic agents on the cerebrospinal fluid clearance of 35S-sulphate and 125I-iodide

Abstract In recent years, use of the ventriculocisternal perfusion technique for the study of cerebrospinal fluid transport of substances has become prevalent. This report compares the effect of three anesthetic agents, commonly used in the laboratory, on the clearance of 35S-sulfate and 125I-iodide out of the CSF. When compared with chloralose, pentobarbital and (to a lesser extent) urethane inhibit the CSF clearance of these anions. In studies with isolated choroid plexus incubated in vitro, the accumulation of 125I-iodide was found to be significantly less in the choroid plexus obtained from the anesthetized than from the unanesthetized animal. These results suggest that the reduced CSF clearance observed in vivo was a result, at least in part, of inhibition of choroid plexus transport.
Late pleistocene human adaptations in eastern North America

Eastern North America in late Pleistocene times was characterized by two major environmental regions: a periglacial tundra or open spruce parkland and an extensive complex boreal/deciduous forest in the unglaciated, lower latitudes. These environments selected for different adaptive strategies on the part of human foraging groups—known archaeologically as Paleoindians. Those in the tundra and tundra-forest region were highly mobile, possibly specialized hunters, exploiting caribou; those in the forest were generalists, exploiting a variety of subsistence resources with a less mobile settlement system. There is little evidence in either area for hunting of Pleistocene megafauna. These differences in adaptive strategies are reflected in the record of sites and isolated fluted points scattered throughout the region, as well as aspects of tool technology, function, and patterns of stone use.
Changes in cerebrospinal fluid Na+ concentration do not underlie hypertensive responses to dietary NaCl in spontaneously hypertensive rats

This study tests the hypothesis that dietary NaCl loading increases cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) Na+ concentration in NaCl-sensitive spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR-S), resulting in an increase in arterial pressure. The high NaCl diet caused a significant rise in systolic arterial pressure in SHR-S but not in normotensive Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats. In contrast, the high NaCl diet caused a transient rise in CSF Na+ that was similar in amplitude in SHR-S and WKY. A second experiment demonstrated that in SHR-S, concomitant dietary Ca2+ supplementation attenuated the dietary NaCl-induced exacerbation of hypertension, but did not alter the transient increase in CSF Na+ concentration. Together, these results indicate that alterations in CSF Na+ concentration do not contribute to the increase in arterial pressure induced by a high NaCl diet in SHR-S.
Platelet-activating factor-induced chemokine gene expression requires NF-κB activation and Ca2+/calcineurin signaling pathways: Inhibition by receptor phosphorylation and β-arrestin recruitment

Previously, we reported that platelet-activating factor (PAF) stimulates higher G protein activation and a more robust Ca2+ mobilization in RBL-2H3 cells expressing carboxyl terminus deletion, phosphorylation-deficient mutant of PAF receptor (mPAFR) when compared with the wild-type receptor (PAFR). However, PAF did not provide sufficient signal for CC chemokine receptor ligand 2 (CCL2) production in cells expressing mPAFR. Based on these findings, we hypothesized that receptor phosphorylation provides a G protein-independent signal that synergizes with Ca2+ mobilization to induce CCL2 production. Here, we show that a mutant of PAFR (D289A), which does not couple to G proteins, was resistant to agonist-induced receptor phosphorylation. Unexpectedly, we found that when this mutant was coexpressed with mPAFR, it restored NF-kappaB activation and CCL2 production. PAF caused translocation of beta-arrestin from the cytoplasm to the membrane in cells expressing PAFR but not a phosphorylation-deficient mutant in which all Ser/Thr residues were replaced with Ala (DeltaST-PAFR). Interestingly, PAF induced significantly higher NF-kappaB and nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT)-luciferase activity as well as CCL2 production in cells expressing DeltaST-PAFR than those expressing PAFR. Furthermore, a Ca2+/calcineurin inhibitor completely inhibited PAF-induced NFAT activation and CCL2 production but not NF-kappaB activation. These findings suggest that the carboxyl terminus of PAFR provides a G protein-independent signal for NF-kappaB activation, which synergizes with G protein-mediated Ca2+/calcineurin activation to induce CCL2 production. However, receptor phosphorylation and beta-arrestin recruitment inhibit CCL2 production by blocking both NF-kappaB activation and Ca2+/calcineurin-dependent signaling pathways.
Approximate consistency condition from a running spectral index in slow-roll inflationary models

Density perturbations generated from inflation almost always have a spectral index ${n}_{s}$ which runs (varies with the wavelength). We explore a running spectral index scenario in which the scalar spectral index runs from blue (${n}_{s}g1$) on large length scales to red (${n}_{s}l1$) on short length scales. Specifically, we look for a correlation between the length scale at which ${n}_{s}\ensuremath{-}1=0$ and the length scale at which tensor to scalar ratio $\mathcal{T}/\mathcal{S}$ reaches a minimum for single field slow-roll inflationary models. By computing the distribution of length scale ratios, we conclude that there indeed is a new approximate consistency condition that is characteristic of running spectral index scenarios that run from blue to red. Specifically, with strong running, we expect 96% of the slow-roll models to have the two length scales to be within a factor of 2, with the length scale at which the tensor to scalar ratio reaching a minimum longer than the wavelength at which ${n}_{s}\ensuremath{-}1=0$.
A sequence in the main cytoplasmic loop of the α subunit is required for assembly of mouse muscle nicotinic acetylcholine receptor

Abstract We have investigated the role of intracellular cytoplasmic sequences in the assembly of the mouse muscle nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (AChR) transiently expressed in COS cells. A chimeric protein in which the region from M1 to M4 of the α subunit was replaced by the corresponding region in the β subunit was unable to support AChR assembly when substituted for the α subunit; a chimeric α subunit containing only the long cytoplasmic loop from the β subunit was likewise inactive. Systematic mutation of short segments of the loop identified a sequence of 17 amino acids near the C-terminal end of the loop for which the β sequence could not be substituted. Each of the inactive chimeric and mutated α subunits bound α-bungarotoxin when expressed alone and formed a heterodimer when expressed with the δ subunit. An α subunit truncated after M1 formed both an αδ heterodimer and an αδβ heterotrimer, demonstrating that the cytoplasmic loop is dispensible for the early steps of assembly. A sequence in the long cytoplasmic loop of the α subunit thus appears to play a role in a late step of AChR assembly.
Risk stratification of non-contrast CT beyond the coronary calcium scan

Coronary artery calcification (CAC) is a well-known marker for coronary artery disease and has important prognostic implications. CAC is able to provide clinicians with a reliable source of information related to cardiovascular atherosclerosis, which carries incremental information beyond Framingham risk. However, non-contrast scans of the heart provide additional information beyond the Agatston score. These studies are also able to measure various sources of fat, including intrathoracic (eg, pericardial or epicardial) and hepatic, both of which are thought to be metabolically active and linked to increased incidence of subclinical atherosclerosis as well as increased prevalence of type 2 diabetes. Testing for CAC is also useful in identifying extracoronary sources of calcification. Specifically, aortic valve calcification, mitral annular calcification, and thoracic aortic calcium (TAC) provide additional risk stratification information for cardiovascular events. Finally, scanning for CAC is able to evaluate myocardial scaring due to myocardial infarcts, which may also add incremental prognostic information. To ensure the benefits outweigh the risks of a scanning for CAC for an appropriately selected asymptomatic patient, the full utility of the scan should be realized. This review describes the current state of the art interpretation of non-contrast cardiac CT, which clinically should go well beyond coronary artery Agatston scoring alone.
Bradykinin-induced changes in Inositol trisphosphate mass in MDCK cells

Bradykinin produces increases in cytosolic calcium in MDCK cells. We have extracted and separated Inositol 1,4,5 trisphosphate by HPLC and after-acid hydrolysis and conversion to the hexatrifluro-acetyl derivative quantitated by negative ion chemical ionization mass spectrometry the mass of inositol trisphosphate in MDCK cells. Bradykinin causes an increase in the mass of Inositol trisphosphate from basal levels of 152 pmoles/mg cell protein to 537 pmoles/mg cell protein by 10 secs of stimulation. We conclude that bradykinin stimulates PLC hydrolysis of PIP2 with rapid release of IP3 in sufficient amount to account for the increase in cytosolic Ca++.
Shielding and fragmentation studies

Radiation dosimetry for manned spaced missions depends on the ability to adequately describe the process of high-energy ion transport through many materials. Since the types of possible nuclear interactions are many and complex, transport models are used which depend upon a reliable source of experimental data. To expand the heavy ion database used in the models we have been measuring charge-changing cross sections and fragment production cross sections from heavy-ion interactions in various elementa targets. These include materials flown on space missions such as carbon and aluminium, as well as those important in radiation dosimetry such as hydrogen, nitrogen and water. Measuring heavy-ion fragmentation through these targets also gives us the ability to determine the effectiveness of new materials proposed for shielding such as graphite composites and polyethylene hybrids. Measurement without a target present gives an indication of the level of contamination of the primary beam, which is also important in radiobiology experiments.
Looking beneath the surface to determine what makes DNA damage deleterious.

Apurinic/apyrimidinic and oxidized abasic sites are chemically reactive DNA lesions that are produced by a variety of damaging agents. The effects of these molecules that lack a Watson–Crick base on polymerase enzymes are well documented. More recently, multiple consequences of the electrophilic nature of abasic lesions have been revealed. Members of this family of DNA lesions have been shown to inactivate repair enzymes and undergo spontaneous transformation into more deleterious forms of damage. Abasic site reactivity provides insight into the chemical basis for the cytotoxicity of DNA damaging agents that produce them and are valuable examples of how looking beneath the surface of seemingly simple molecules can reveal biologically relevant chemical complexity.
Anisotropic strength approach for wear analysis of unidirectional continuous FRP composites

Based on the anisotropic strength failure criteria, a model is introduced to predict the wear behavior of unidirectional continuous fiber reinforced polymer composites (FRP) for arbitrary fiber orientations. This approach, which includes the influence of the friction on the failure strength, is initially validated by comparison to experimental data for T300/ Epoxy. The benefits of the model and trends for variation of wear with fiber orientations are subsequently ascertained and discussed.
Torture and Origen's hermeneutics of nonviolence

In a world where too many people continue to be tortured without recourse to legal protections, nonlegislative resources for preserving human dignity amid dehumanizing terror are much needed. This article analyzes the hermeneutical exercises constructed by the influential third century Christian intellectual, Origen of Alexandria, to prepare himself and others for torture and martyrdom. These exercises were designed to be a counter-asceticism that would strike at the root of violence both in the self and in society and enable his contemporary Christians to suffer at the hands of the Romans without losing sight either of their own humanity or that of their tormentors. Christians following Origen's practice were trained to resist not only the Roman Empire's violent disciplining of bodies, but the whole interpretation of the world that justified it as they embodied a nonviolent alternative to it. In this way, Origen provides resources for a particularly religious mode of resistance to torture that usefully supplements the contemporary human rights campaign and holds promise for overcoming some of its limitations.
Regulation of Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor in Cultured Rat Hippocampal Astrocytes

Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) is a pleiotrophic cytokine which is detectable only at very low levels in the intact adult rat CNS, but following an aspirative lesion to the dorsal hippocampus and overlying cortex, CNTF mRNA levels are dramatically up-regulated in reactive astrocytes. In cultured rat hippocampal astrocytes, CNTF mRNA levels are high, similar to the levels in reactive astrocytes in vivo, but are strongly suppressed after administration of isoproterenol and forskolin, which stimulate the production of intracellular cyclic AMP, induce marked morphological change in the astrocytes and up-regulate glial fibrillary acidic protein mRNA and nerve growth factor mRNA in these cells. Following a single administration of forskolin to cultured astrocytes, suppression of CNTF mRNA was sustained for up to 7 days. A similar down-regulation was observed with the endogenous adrenergic agonists noradrenaline and adrenaline as well as, to a lesser extent, dopamine and adenosine. Down-regulation of CNTF mRNA resulted in a gradual reduction in the level of CNTF protein within the astrocytes. A single addition of forskolin or isoproterenol resulted in a drop in CNTF protein levels to 29 and 52% of control levels respectively after 9 days in vitro, although the rate of turnover of CNTF remained the same. Down-regulation of CNTF mRNA in cultured hippocampal astrocytes by adenylyl cyclase activation was quite specific, as a wide range of growth factors, cytokines and neurotransmitters had little or no effect upon CNTF mRNA levels.
Toward the Development of a Therapeutic Program for Older Prisoners

The basic supposition of this paper is that older prisoners possessing unique characteristics necessitate a specific program designed to meet their particular needs. The development of an experimental therapeutic program for such older prisoners is described. The program provides structured activities for the purpose of better preparing older prisoners for their integration back into the community at large. Observations from the staff and inmates indicate a high level of life satisfaction and an improved sense of direction. A mean score of 13.42 was found when utilizing the Life Satisfaction Index B, which approached the life satisfaction scores of a normal population.
Feedback and practice as variables in error detection and correction

Adams' (1971) closed-loop theory has response-produced feedback and practice as determinants of the internal reference that is the learned basis of error detection and correction. Two experiments were conducted on error detection and correction in test of this assumption, using a linear displacement task. Amounts of feedback and practice were variables, and both were found to be effective in error detection and correction. The discussion was mainly in terms of the informativeness of feedback channels and what it means for motor behavior.
"Emergency room" and "mobile response" models of emergency psychiatric services.

The present study surveyed federally-funded emergency psychiatric programs in 33 California community mental health centers (CMHCs). Four aspects of service organization were examined: (1) the availability of various response styles (telephone service, walk-in service, follow-up home visits, mobile initial response); (2) the types of staff providing the service; (3) the location of the programs, and (4) the organizational setting of the CMHCs (consortium or single agency centers). From these characteristics of service organization two contrasting types of emergency psychiatric programs were derived—the “emergency room” and “mobile response” models. The relationship between these two models of service delivery and catchment area demographic characteristics was examined and no remerkable trends emerged. The implications of developing a typology of emergency psychiatric programs are discussed with respect to a scheme for evaluating the relative effectiveness of services and for planning future programs.
Using Aquaculture as a Post-mining Land Use in West Virginia

Using aquaculture as a post-mining land use has resulted in financial savings in site reclamation, increased positive media attention for coal companies, and new biosecure water sources for commercial aquaculture operations in the West Virginia coal region. Large underground coal mines in Appalachia have created numerous gravity flow sources of water. These mine water sources are often nearly ideal in temperature, alkalinity, and pH for trout and have the additional value of being devoid of any serious fish pathogens. At one site, modifying the post-mining land use permit to allow the water flowing from the portal of a closed mine to be used to produce commercial rainbow trout for the recreational market reduced site reclamation costs by nearly $450,000 (US). At another site, an acid mine water treatment plant was converted into a quality public fishing park with healthy warm water species (channel catfish, largemouth bass, and bluegill sunfish). The county park is now being used for educational and recreational purposes to the benefit of the whole community.