cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Biomechanical growth laws for muscle tissue.

Abstract It is generally accepted that growth of muscle tissue depends in part on biochemical factors. However, the precise relationships that govern mechanically induced growth are not known. This paper uses available data to propose a set of biomechanical growth laws for striated and smooth muscle. For striated muscle fibers, transverse and longitudinal growth are hypothesized to depend on the active and passive fiber stress, respectively. For smooth muscle fibers in arteries, transverse growth is assumed to depend on the fiber stress (active behavior is ignored), with longitudinal growth depending on both fiber stress and the shear stress on the endothelium due to blood flow. In both types of muscle, the rate of growth is assumed to depend linearly on the stresses. Relatively simple models for skeletal muscle, the heart and arteries are used to show that the proposed growth laws can predict many of the known characteristics of muscle growth during development and following load perturbations in the mature animal.
Promoting instructional change: using social network analysis to understand the informal structure of academic departments

Calls for improvement of undergraduate science education have resulted in numerous initiatives that seek to improve student learning outcomes by promoting changes in faculty teaching practices. Although many of these initiatives focus on individual faculty, researchers consider the academic department to be a highly productive focus for creating change. In this paper, we argue that it is important for change agents to understand the informal social structure of the academic department and introduce social network analysis techniques to uncover this social structure. Examples are given from data collected in five academic departments. A short sociometric web survey was used to ask instructors to identify colleagues with whom they discuss teaching and the frequency of their discussions. Techniques of social network analysis are used to determine the current state of the department, target participants for a change initiative, and anticipate the spread of new teaching ideas. Results suggest that these techniques identify informal structures that would otherwise be hidden and that may be important for planning change initiatives.
Electron microscopic localization of lactate dehydrogenase in osteoclasts of chick embryo tibia

Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was localized in osteoclasts of fixed and unfixed 19-day chick embryo tibias using a copper ferrocyanide capture reaction and osmiophilic polymer generation. This study revealed that: (1) LDH activity in fixed, briefly rinsed osteoclasts was associated principally with limiting membranes of cytoplasmic vacuoles and vesicles and with the plasma membrane; (2) LDH activity in unfixed osteoclasts was associated only with mitochondria; and (3) some mitochondria were stained in fixed tissue given a long rinse. These results indicate that: cytoplasmic LDH diffused out of unfixed tissue; mitochondrial LDH was inactivated by formaldehyde in fixed tissue; and formaldehyde-inhibited mitochondrial LDH can be reactivated by a long rinse. Although the vesicles that stained for LDH activity were found in all parts of the cell, they were concentrated near the ruffled border, and there is evidence that they contained material from the bone surface. These results suggest that the LDH associated with cytoplasmic vesicles of the osteoclast may be important in processing of material resorbed from the bone surface and that osteoclastic mitochondria may utilize lactate from the bone fluid for energy production.
Development of a simple valid method for the complete removal of insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-binding proteins from IGFs in human serum and other biological fluids: comparison with acid-ethanol treatment and C18 Sep-Pak separation.

Insulin-like growth factor (IGF)s circulate in plasma as large mol wt proteins bound to specific proteins, termed IGF-binding proteins (IGFBPs). As IGFBPs have been shown to produce artifacts in IGF radioligand assays, various extraction procedures have been proposed to eliminate IGFBPs from biological samples before radioligand assays. Comparison of acid-ethanol and C18 Sep-Pak extraction methods, the two most widely used procedures for separation of IGFs from IGFBPs in human serum samples, with the established gold standard (Sephadex G-75 acid gel filtration) revealed that a significant amount of IGFBP activity survived the acid-ethanol extraction and C18 Sep-Pak separation techniques. We, therefore, have developed a simple novel method comprising a combination of two techniques, involving separation based on size and separation based on centrifugation. In this method, serum samples were acidified and applied to Bio-Spin columns containing BSA-pretreated Bio-Gel Polyacrylamide-10 (P-10). Upon centrifuga...
Research Strategies in the Study of the Pro-Oxidant Nature of Polyphenol Nutraceuticals

Polyphenols of phytochemicals are thought to exhibit chemopreventive effects against cancer. These plant-derived antioxidant polyphenols have a dual nature, also acting as pro-oxidants, generating reactive oxygen species (ROS), and causing oxidative stress. When studying the overall cytotoxicity of polyphenols, research strategies need to distinguish the cytotoxic component derived from the polyphenol per se from that derived from the generated ROS. Such strategies include (a) identifying hallmarks of oxidative damage, such as depletion of intracellular glutathione and lipid peroxidation, (b) classical manipulations, such as polyphenol exposures in the absence and presence of antioxidant enzymes (i.e., catalase and superoxide dismutase) and of antioxidants (e.g., glutathione and N-acetylcysteine) and cotreatments with glutathione depleters, and (c) more recent manipulations, such as divalent cobalt and pyruvate to scavenge ROS. Attention also must be directed to the influence of iron and copper ions and to the level of polyphenols, which mediate oxidative stress.
Evaluation of a mental skills program for serving for an intercollegiate volleyball team.

A preseason mental skills program for serving was implemented for the 11 members of an intercollegiate volleyball team (M age = 20.0 yr.; SD = 1.1; years of intercollegiate volleyball experience M ...
Flexibility and economics of implementation of the finite element and difference techniques in nonlinear magnetic fields of power devices

This paper presents a comparison between the finite element and difference methods applied to two dimensional nonlinear magnetic field problems. The comparison is based on the determination of the magnetic field distribution in a shell-type single phase transformer with substantial magnetic core saturation. The comparison between the two discretization schemes is based on an equal number of finite element and finite difference domains. The finite element mesh is superimposed on the finite difference grid, to assure an equitable basis of comparison. Aspects of flexibility of implementation and economics (computer execution time and storage requirements) for the two techniques are compared. In addition, the degree of agreement between numerical results of the two methods and corresponding experimental test data is given.
Improving the analytical accuracy of electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy

Abstract Precisions and accuracies of approximately ±1% can be obtained for concentration measurements by using proper methods for double integration of the electron paramagnetic resonance signal. To obtain this level of performance, precautions also need to be taken concerning the actual values of the modulation amplitude, signal amplification, and power level. In addition, the manner in which the microwave cavity is tuned can significantly alter results. This report discusses methods for double integration as well as the significance of these other precautions which need to be taken.
The incidence and timing of noncardiac surgery after cardiac stent implantation

Background In November 2007, national guidelines were released recommending delay of elective noncardiac surgery after cardiac revascularization with drug eluting stents (DES) for 12 months compared with 6 weeks after implantation of bare metal stents (BMS). Study Design To determine the incidence of noncardiac surgery within 24 months after stent placement, national VA data on cardiac stent implantation were merged with data from the VA National Surgery Office and Medicare. Using chi-square tests and log-rank analyses, we measured the incidence of noncardiac surgery after BMS and DES in relation to guideline release and surgical characteristics. Results From 2000 to 2010, 126,773 stent procedures were followed by 25,977 (20.5%) noncardiac operations within 24 months. Overall, 11.8% of the BMS surgery cohort had early surgery (less than 6 weeks) compared with 46.7% of the DES surgery cohort, which had early surgery (less than 12 months). The incidence of surgery differed significantly by stent type (BMS 24.1% vs DES 17.5%, p Conclusions We found evidence that guidelines recommending delaying surgery appear to be effective in decreasing the incidence of early surgery; however, early surgery is still a frequent occurrence. Additional research is needed to better define the risk of cardiac and bleeding complications in patients undergoing subsequent noncardiac surgery, as well as the optimal time for surgery and method of antiplatelet management.
Antisuppression of class I suppressors in an isopentenylated-transfer RNA deficient mutant of Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

The effect of a previously isolated antisuppressor mutation from bakers' yeast, that reduced the efficiency of the tyrosine-inserting ochre suppressor, SUP7-o, on other tyrosine-inserting ochre suppressors has been determined. As expected, the antisuppressor mutation, mod5-1, restricted the capacity of all eight tyrosine-inserting ochre suppressors to suppress nonsense mutations. Based on the suppression of five ochre alleles in the presence of mod5, the eight class I suppressors can be grouped into three subclasses. The most efficient subclass had only one member, SUP4-o. Members of the second group included SUP2-o, SUP3-o, SUP7-o, and SUP8-o. The third and least efficient subclass included SUP5-o, SUP6-o, and SUP1 1-o. These differences in efficiencies are a function of the relative expression of the eight genes encoding tRNATYR.
Effect of FeCl3 on ion transport in isolated frog skin.

The effect of addition of FeCl3 to the media bathing the isolated skin ofRana pipiens was studied by measuring short-circuit current, transepithelial potential, and resistance, and by determining the influx and efflux of sodium (J 13 Na andJ 31 Na , respectively) and the influx and efflux of chloride (J 13 Cl andJ 31 Cl , respectively) across the epithelium. With normal Ringer's solution on both sides of the skin, addition of 10−3 m FeCl3 to the external medium resulted in nearly complete inhibition of active Na transport (J 13 Na decreased from 1.30±0.14 to 0.10±0.04 μeq/cm2 hr (N=8)) and in appearance of active chloride transport in outward direction due to an 80% increase inJ 31 Cl . Average (J 31 Cl −J 13 Cl ) obtained from means of 8 skins in 6 consecutive control and last 3 experimental periods was −0.17±0.04 and 0.38±0.05 μeq/cm2 hr, respectively. FeCl3 added to external medium also induced substantial net chloride movement in outward direction when external medium contained Na-free choline chloride Ringer's or low ionic strength solution. Under the latter condition net Na movement was virtually eliminated by external FeCl3. After addition of FeCl3 to serosal medium there was delayed inhibition ofJ 13 Na but no change in chloride fluxes. Immediate and profound changes in Na and Cl transport systems seen after external application of FeCl3 indicate charge effects of Fe3+ on surface of apical cell membranes, possibly close to or in ion channels.
Prototyping of microfluidic systems using a commercial thermoplastic elastomer

This article describes the fabrication of microfluidic networks (μFNs) from a commercially available (styrene)–(ethylene/butylene)–(styrene) (SEBS) block copolymer (BCP). The unique combination of hard and elastomeric properties provided by this material promotes high-throughput replication of fluidic structures using thermoforming technologies, while retaining the advantage of quick and easy assembly via conformal contact, as commonly achieved for devices fabricated from poly(dimethylsiloxane (PDMS). We employ Versaflex CL30, which is optically transparent, available at low cost (e.g., $2.50/Lbs), and likely to be compatible with a broad range of biological species. We demonstrate excellent fidelity in replication of fluidic structures using hot embossing lithography in conjunction with a photolithographically prepared Si/SU-8 master mold. Moreover, we introduce rapid prototyping of high-quality structures using an approach that we call soft thermoplastic lithography (STPL). Thanks to the rheological characteristics of the SEBS copolymer, STPL enables thermoforming on a heated master at temperatures around 170°C. Using this approach, replication can be completed within a very short period of time (e.g., less than 3 min) without the need of resorting to pressure- or vacuum-assisted instrumentation. Serving as a proof-of-concept, we devise a μFN that is suitable for the formation of miniaturized arrays comprising fluorescently labeled oligonucleotides and proteins on hard plastic substrates. Resultant spots are characterized by high fluorescent contrast, excellent edge definition, and uniform distribution of probes within the modified areas.
inhibits antigen‐mediated Syk, but not Lyn tyrosine kinase activation in mast cells

Abstract High affinity IgE receptors (αβγ2) mediate the activation of the non-receptor tyrosine kinases Lyn and Syk. Here we show that the antioxidant drug N- acetyl - l - cystein (NAC) inhibits antigen-mediated Syk activation whereas Lyn activation and phosphorylation of β and γ is maintained. Furthermore, NAC inhibits antigen-mediated calcium mobilization and exocytosis in a dose-dependent manner, but does not inhibit ionomycin-induced exocytosis. These data support a model in which the activation of Lyn is responsible for receptor phosphorylation and precedes the activation of Syk. The inhibition of Syk activation by NAC may be relevant to B and T cell antigen receptors, which are also linked to Syk/ZAP70 tyrosine kinases.
GAMMA GLOBULIN METABOLISM IN RABBITS DURING THE ANAMNESTIC RESPONSE

1. Gamma globulin metabolism and distribution were studied employing rabbit gamma globulin (RGG)I131 24 times in 13 control rabbits. Similar studies were performed before and during the ananmestic response in 4 rabbits previously sensitized with a polyvalent pneumococcal vaccine. 2. During the ananmestic response, gamma-globulin levels increased from 1.0 to 6.0 gm/100 ml, and the gamma-globulin pool increased from 0.7 to 4.7 gm/kg. There was no change in the intravascular-extravascular partition of gamma globulin. 3. Gamma globulin degradation increased from 0.06 to 0.33 gm/kg/day during the 28 days of the immunization period while gamma globulin synthesis increased even further to average 0.47 gm/kg/day. Following the attainment of elevated gamma globulin levels the fractional rate of RGG-I131 turnover increased from 8.0 to 12.5 per cent/day. 4. No differences were noted in the metabolism of homologous or autologous gamma globulin regardless of the allotypic specificities.
Data Masking: A New Approach for Steganography?

It is well known that encryption provides secure channels for communicating entities. However, due to lack of covertness on these channels, an eavesdropper can identify encrypted streams through statistical tests and capture them for further cryptanalysis. Hence, the communicating entities can use steganography to achieve covertness. In this paper we propose a new form of multimedia steganography called data masking. Instead of embedding a secret message into a multimedia object, as in traditional multimedia steganography, we process the entire secret message to make it appear statistically similar to a multimedia object itself. Thereby we foil an eavesdropper who is primarily applying statistical tests to detect encrypted communication channels. We show that our approach can potentially give a covert channel capacity which is an order of magnitude higher than traditional steganography. Our experiments also show that steganalyzers trained with stego objects of known steganographic have a low detection accuracy for datamasked multimedia objects.
A Comparison of Positive Versus Negative Emotional Expression in a Written Disclosure Study Among Distressed Students

This study investigated the effects of expressing through writing either positive feelings, negative feelings, or both about an upsetting event in order to assess which mode of expression facilitated greater emotional and cognitive processing. Undergraduate student participants with self-reported unresolved upsetting experiences were randomly assigned to one of three writing groups. After completing three writing sessions, they were evaluated at baseline, postexperimentally, and at 1-month follow-up. All groups experienced positive benefits; however, participants in the positive writing group showed greater adaptive cognitive changes than the other groups. Thus it appears that the written expression of positive feelings is as therapeutic as the written expression of negative emotions, which may prompt increased cognitive reorganization or benefit finding among a nonclinical sample.
A model for notification systems evaluation—assessing user goals for multitasking activity

Addressing the need to tailor usability evaluation methods (UEMs) and promote effective reuse of HCI knowledge for computing activities undertaken in divided-attention situations, we present the foundations of a unifying model that can guide evaluation efforts for notification systems. Often implemented as ubiquitous systems or within a small portion of the traditional desktop, notification systems typically deliver information of interest in a parallel, multitasking approach, extraneous or supplemental to a user's attention priority. Such systems represent a difficult challenge to evaluate meaningfully. We introduce a design model of user goals based on blends of three critical parameters---interruption, reaction, and comprehension. Categorization possibilities form a logical, descriptive design space for notification systems, rooted in human information processing theory. This model allows conceptualization of distinct action models for at least eight classes of notification systems, which we describe and analyze with a human information processing model. System classification regions immediately suggest useful empirical and analytical evaluation metrics from related literature. We present a case study that demonstrates how these techniques can assist an evaluator in adapting traditional UEMs for notification and other multitasking systems. We explain why using the design model categorization scheme enabled us to generate evaluation results that are more relevant for the system redesign than the results of the original exploration done by the system's designers.
"Who's on First?" Using Sports Trivia Peer Tutoring to Increase Conversational Language

As a growing number of students with disabilities are included within general education environments, it is important to plan ahead for the new and exciting social opportunities they will encounter in these environments. In addition to teaching programs designed to overcome basic communication deficits, it is important to give careful consideration to what students will talk about as they become fully participating members across a variety of new social environments. Students with disabilities often require repeated practice to acquire, generalize, and maintain social communication skills. A structured, reciprocal peer tutoring program can provide students with many opportunities to respond with immediate feedback. When implemented systematically, peer tutoring programs are able to support students as they practice the skills necessary for a conversational exchange. Therefore, this article describes how to create a systematic peer tutoring program with sports trivia content to teach and support social con...
Chiral synthesis via organoboranes. XVI: Boroxazolidones derived from α-amino acids and borinic or boronic esters. A simple procedure for upgrading borinates and boronates to materials of high optical purity

Abstract The synthesis of boron heterocycles from borinic and boronic esters with α-amino acids was explored as a means of upgrading the optical purities of intermediates from asymmetric hydroboration. B -Methoxy-9-borabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane, methyl dicyclohexylborinate and (+)- and (-)-methyl diisopinocampheylborinate react with various α-amino acids to form the corresponding crystalline chelates. Recrystallization of the chelates derived from methyl trans -2-phenylcyclopentylisopinocampheylborinate of 85% ee with l -phenylalanine, methyl isopinocampheyl- exo -norbornylborinate of 83% ee with l -proline and both optical isomers of methyl diisopinocampheylborinate of 92% ee with l -proline yield the corresponding products with optical purities approaching 100% ee. Dimethyl cyclopentylboronate, dimethyl exo -norbornylboronate and dimethyl isopinocampheylboronate upon treatment with iminodiacetic acid and N -methyliminodiacetic acid form the corresponding bicyclic boronates. Recrystallization of the chelate derived from diethyl 3-tetrahydropyranylboronate and iminodiacetic acid yields a product of essentially 100% ee. Consequently formation of boroxazolidones of asymmetric hydroboration products provides one possible route to upgrade such products to materials of high optical purity.
Adult Attachment, Parent Emotion, and Observed Parenting Behavior: Mediator and Moderator Models

In a middle-class sample of mothers of 2-year-olds, adult attachment classifications measured in the Adult Attachment Interview (AAI) were related to maternal self-reported emotional well-being and observed parenting behavior, and the potential mediating and moderating roles of maternal emotion were tested. Mothers classified as dismissing on the AAI reported significantly lower levels of positive affectivity. Mothers classified as preoccupied reported significantly higher levels of negative affectivity and anxiety. Preoccupied mothers were observed to be significantly higher on angry/intrusive parenting, but this association was not mediated by attachment-related differences in maternal emotion. Maternal emotional well-being did, however, moderate the associations between adult attachment and parenting behavior: Dismissing attachment was significantly associated with lower warmth/responsiveness only among mothers with higher levels of depressive symptoms.
Involving AP-2 transcription factor in connexin 26 up-regulation during pregnancy and lactation.

Gap junction connexin 26 lCx26r is uphregulated in mammary epithelial cells during pregnancy and lactation. To understand the transcriptional regulation of Cx26, we identified a protected DNase I footprint region l−140 to −113r in the rat Cx26 promoter. This rCx26 Promoter Footprinting Region, or CPFR, contains an Sp binding site lCCGCCCr overlapping with an APh2 binding site lGCCCGCGGCr, and is evolutionarily conserved. Nuclear extracts from rat mammary glands and human MCFh10 mammary epithelial cells formed proteinhDNA complexes with the labeled CPFR probe in the electrophoretic mobility shift assay lEMSAr, and these complexes were markedly enhanced during pregnancy and lactation. Antibody supershift analysis further identified the presence of Sp1, Sp3, and APh2 in these binding complexes. Human mammary epithelial MCFh10A and MCFh12A cells were transiently transfected with chimeric mutant rCx26 promotersluciferase reporter constructs, and luciferase activities measured. Mutations along the CPFR fragment drastically reduced the promoter activity, specially at the SpsAPh2 overlapping site. Cotransfection of APh2 with rCx26 promotersreporter constructs into MCFh10 cells markedly induced the reporter activity. These data infer that APh2, along with previously reported Sp transcription factors, is involved in the uphregulation of Cx26 gene during pregnancy and lactation. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 59:17–24, 2001. © 2001 WileyhLiss, Inc.
Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis in sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma

Background Sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma (SNUC) is an uncommon neoplasm characterized by local extension and an aggressive course. Treatment often includes a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery, although the optimal strategy remains unclear. Here, we present the first reported case of leptomeningeal carcinomatosis from SNUC. Methods and Results A 28-year-old man with rapidly progressive headaches, congestion, and exophthalmos was found to have a nasal mass. Biopsy revealed sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma. He had a transient response to chemotherapy followed by a sustained response to concurrent chemoradiation. At the completion of radiation, he developed subtle neurologic findings and MRI revealed diffuse, bulky leptomeningeal spread. He was able to receive only a single fraction of external beam radiation to his spinal axis before his disease rapidly progressed, leading to respiratory failure and death. Conclusions Sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma can be associated with leptomeningeal carcinomatosis, which can lead to a fulminant clinical course. Head Neck, 35: E343–E345, 2013
Kinetic lattice Monte Carlo simulation of facet growth rate

Abstract We present a kinetic lattice Monte Carlo simulation model that describes deposition, surface self-diffusion (including single adatom, dimer and ledge adatom diffusion), nucleation and film growth on fcc metal substrates. The activation energies for diffusion are calculated using the embedded-atom method. Using this model, we determine the relative growth rates of (100), (110) and (111) facets as a function of substrate temperature, deposition rate and facet size. The effects of relative growth rates on the microstructural evolution of Cu films are discussed.
On effective properties of heterogeneous bone scaffold

Scaffold material, porosity and internal pore architecture are essential parameters for bone scaffold design that affect both scaffold function and cell-tissue ingrowth. A general approach for design of bone scaffold is to mimic natural tissue properties, namely, the tissue heterogeneity and anisotropy. This paper presents a modified multi-cell model that can be used to predict the effective properties of heterogeneous bone scaffolds with an improved accuracy. Results from the model prediction are reported.
Much Ado About Nothing? An Empirical Assessment of the Georgia Voter Identification Statute:

Voter identification (ID) policies, especially those of the photo ID variety, have been hotly contested over the last few years. The primary concern surrounding these statutes amounts to lower turnout, especially among certain groups in the electorate, such as racial/ethnic minorities. In 2007, the way was cleared for Georgia to implement a new statute requiring registrants to present a government-issued photo ID to vote. Using population data on registrants from two election cycles coupled with information on a subgroup of registrants known to lack photo ID, we conduct a policy impact analysis of the Georgia voter ID law. We find that the new law did produce a suppression effect among those registrants lacking proper ID. Substantively, the law lowered turnout by about four-tenths of a percentage point in 2008. However, we find no empirical evidence to suggest that there is a racial or ethnic component to this suppression effect.
Aided and Embedded: The Team Approach to Instructional Design.

Arizona State University is the largest public university in the United States with an enrollment of 70,440 in 2010. ASU's online offerings are also expanding rapidly with a target of 30,000 students by 2020. In one program, growth and transformation from hybrid to 100% online demanded scalability to handle large enrollments. Thus an instructional designer joined the faculty/librarian team to facilitate the creation of brief, scenario-based modules that were embedded in an online course and assessed within the course management system. The instructional designer assisted in removing many of the traditional barriers associated with embedded librarianship by helping the team record and edit the modules, inserting them into the courseware, and linking module quizzes to the course gradebook. This paper describes the barriers for librarians in providing online instruction and highlights how the team roles, processes, and outcomes removed the traditional barriers and resulted in successful, embedded, and reusab...
ATP P2X receptor-mediated enhancement of glutamate release and evoked EPSCs in dorsal horn neurons of the rat spinal cord.

Presynaptic ATP P2X receptors have been proposed to play a role in modulating glutamate release from the first sensory synapse in the spinal cord. Using spinal cord slice preparations and patch-clamp recordings from dorsal horn neurons in lamina V of the rat spinal cord, we showed that the activation of P2X receptors by α,β-methylene-ATP (αβm-ATP) resulted in a large increase in the frequency of spontaneous EPSCs (sEPSCs) and miniature EPSCs (mEPSCs). The increases in mEPSC frequency by αβm-ATP were not blocked by the Ca 2+ channel blocker, 30 μmLa 3+ , but were abolished in a bath solution when Ca 2+ was omitted. The increases in mEPSC frequency by αβm-ATP were blocked completely by the P2 receptor antagonist pyridoxalphosphate-6-azophenyl-2′,4′-disulfonic acid (PPADS) at 10 μm. Furthermore, the EPSCs evoked by dorsal root stimulation were potentiated by αβm-ATP as well as by the ecto-ATPase inhibitor ARL67156 and were depressed in the presence of P2 receptor antagonists PPADS (10 μm) and suramin (5 μm). The effects of these compounds on the evoked EPSCs were associated with the changes in glutamate release probability of primary afferent central terminals. Our results indicate that αβm-ATP-sensitive P2X receptors play a significant role in modulating excitatory sensory synaptic transmission in the spinal cord, and the potential role of endogenous ATP is suggested.
Magnetometer and differential carrier phase GPS-aided INS for advanced vehicle control

This paper describes the design, analysis, implementation, and experimental results of a triple redundancy navigation system incorporating magnetometer, inertial, and carrier phase differential Global Positioning System (GPS) measurements. The navigation system is able to accurately estimate vehicle attitude (including yaw) as long as the vehicle velocity is not zero. The motivating application was lateral vehicle control for intelligent highway systems. The system was designed to operate reliably whether or not GPS and magnetometer measurements were available. The navigation system provides vehicle position, velocity, acceleration, pitch and roll, yaw, and angular rates at 150 Hz with accuracies (standard deviation) of 2.8 cm, 0.8 cm/s, 2.2 cm/s/s, 0.03/spl deg/, 0.18/spl deg/, and 0.1/spl deg//s. This navigation state vector was processed to produce a control state vector at approximately 30 Hz. This triplicate redundancy navigation system reliably demonstrated lateral vehicle control in the following situations: both GPS and magnetometer aiding the inertial navigation system (INS), GPS-aided INS, magnetometer aided-INS, and switching between GPS and magnetometer aiding of the INS at random times.
Compensatory growth in nestling Zebra Finches impacts body composition but not adaptive immune function

ABSTRACT Compensatory strategies have evolved in birds to minimize the effects of poor rearing conditions on future survival and fitness. Undernourished nestlings may accelerate growth and/or development relative to age, termed compensatory growth, to achieve normal asymptotic size at the same time as well-fed chicks. While compensatory growth allows birds to fledge at a suitable size and time, it may have persistent detrimental effects on the development of complex body systems. Our study examined compensatory growth following short-term food restriction of caged groups of Zebra Finches (Taeniopygia guttata; adult breeding pair and their brood) during the nestling period, and tested for postrestriction effects on tissue maturity (indexed by body tissue water content) and adaptive immune function. Food restriction reduced nestling body mass, tarsus, and culmen growth. Rapid compensatory growth in body mass, but not in tarsus and culmen lengths, was observed upon return to ad libitum feeding of the food-re...
Direct Lepton Production and the Drell-Yan Mechanism

It is suggested that the Drell-Yan mechanism, when applied to low-mass dilepton production, underestimates the yield by a factor approx. 25 because it neglects the contribution coming from annihilation of produced parton-antiparton pairs. If this is correct, the observed direct lepton production may be accounted for by electromagnetic production of low-mass dileptons possessing high total transverse momentum. (AIP)
Erratum: Non-iterative and exact method for constraining particles in a linear geometry

We present a practical numerical method for evaluating the Lagrange multipliers necessary for maintaining a constrained linear geometry of particles in dynamical simulations. The method involves no iterations and is limited in accuracy only by the numerical methods for solving small systems of linear equations. As a result of the non-iterative and exact (within numerical accuracy) nature of the procedure, there is no drift in the constrained geometry, and the method is therefore readily applied to molecular dynamics simulations of, for example, rigid linear molecules or materials of non-spherical grains. We illustrate the approach through implementation in the commonly used second-order velocity-explicit Verlet method.
An invasive plant-fungal mutualism reduces arthropod diversity

Ecological theory holds that competition and predation are the most important biotic forces affecting the composition of communities. Here, we expand this framework by demonstrating that mutualism can fundamentally alter community and food web structure. In large, replicated field plots, we manipulated the mutualism between a dominant plant (Lolium arundinaceum) and symbiotic fungal endophyte (Neotyphodium coenophialum). The presence of the mutualism reduced arthropod abundance up to 70%, reduced arthropod diversity nearly 20%, shifted arthropod species composition relative to endophyte-free plots and suppressed the biomass and richness of other plant species in the community. Herbivorous arthropods were more strongly affected than carnivores, and for both herbivores and carnivores, effects of the mutualism appeared to propagate indirectly via organisms occurring more basally in the food web. The influence of the mutualism was as great or greater than previously documented effects of competition and predation on arthropod communities. Our work demonstrates that a keystone mutualism can significantly reduce arthropod biodiversity at a broad community scale.
Non-navigable streams and adjacent wetlands: addressing science needs following the Supreme Court's Rapanos decision

In June of 2006, the US Supreme Court ruled in two cases concerning jurisdiction under the Clean Water Act (CWA). The decisions suggest that hydrological permanence of non-navigable streams and adjacent wetlands (NNSAWs) and their effects on the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of navigable waters (“significant nexus”) are relevant in determining CWA jurisdiction. This has increased the need for scientific information to support regulatory determinations and to inform future policies, rule making, and legislation. Here, we propose an approach for addressing these science needs. We define a metric – maximum duration of continuous flow – to assess hydrological permanence. We also define two metrics to evaluate significant nexus: proportion of total benefit to the navigable water contributed by an NNSAW class, and proportion of time that a navigable water receives benefit from an NNSAW. These metrics could be useful in implementing the Court's new legal standards.
On the Space–Time Scales of the Surface Solar Radiation Field

Abstract The characteristic space–time scales of surface solar radiation fields measured by the 111-instrument MESONET in Oklahoma are estimated after removal of the diurnal cycle. These estimates of “within-day” variability are used to deduce the representativeness of surface solar radiation measurements made at the central ARM measurement site as a function of time-averaging interval. Nomograms of the relation between point measurements and area averages are given for different space–time-averaging intervals. Examples from the nomograms show, for instance, that under conditions of low mean radiation (cloudy days), the central site point measurements are representative of a spatial area the size of a T42 GCM grid box (280 km × 280 km) if one uses hourly averages and is willing to accept a correlation of 0.45 between area average and point measurement. The point data represent a 60 km × 60 km region at a 0.90 correlation level if a 5-min time average is used. The characteristic timescale for the within-da...
Abstract 334: Proliferation of Cardiomyocytes from a Rat Model of Heart Hypoplasia

Decreased cardiomyocyte proliferation has been implicated in underdevelopment of the left ventricle in Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS). However, it is not clear if cardiomyocytes in HLHS have an inherent defect that inhibits proliferation or if it is the result of abnormal external cues (eg, alterations to mechanical loading or extracellular matrix). We hypothesized that cardiomyocytes from hypoplastic hearts would be capable of proliferation if removed from the unhealthy cardiac environment. We used the rat model of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) via nitrofen treatment in the pregnant dam at E10 to induce heart hypoplasia in the developing fetuses; control dams were gavaged with olive oil only. Fetuses were harvested at E21 and the presence of CDH was determined. CDH+ hearts were smaller and abnormally shaped compared to healthy controls (Fig. 1A). Ki67 staining revealed that CDH+ hearts had significantly lower cell proliferation vs. healthy hearts (Fig. 1B). However, when cells were placed...
Effects of α1-Acid Glycoprotein on Acute Pancreatitis and Acute Lung Injury in Rats

α1-Acid glycoprotein (AAG), a highly negatively charged glycoprotein, well known for its capillary stabilizing effect, was tested in rat models of acute edematous pancreatitis, acute hemorrhagic-necrotizing pancreatitis, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). In cerulein-elicited edematous pancreatitis AAG improved histological alterations at 200 mg/ kg i.v. and plasma amylase activity at 1800 or 4200 mg/kg i.v. All other parameters (edema, plasma lipase) were not affected in a biologically relevant manner. In glycodeoxycholic acid-induced hemorrhagic-necrotizing pancreatitis AAG was without effect on parameters measured (plasma amylase, plasma lipase activity, histological scores) at 1800 or 4200 mg/kg i.v. At the extremely high dose of 15000 mg/kg i.v. plasma amylase and lipase levels were decreased. In lipopolysaccharide-mediated ARDS, AAG was tested at 50, 200 or 600 mg/kg i.v. AAG, but also the placebo formulation decreased the myeloperoxidase content in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Histological alterations were improved by AAG, however, not by the placebo formulation. Lung water content was not significantly influenced by AAG, whereas Evans blue extravasation was significantly diminished by all three doses of AAG. It is concluded that the edematous pancreatitis is the first in vivo condition with increased extravascular fluid accumulation, in which AAG is not effective. Based on data presented here and literature data, there is evidence for a beneficial effect of AAG in acute lung injury.
Rota’s Conjecture, the Missing Axiom, and Prime Cycles in Toric Varieties

Rota’s conjecture predicts that the coefficients of the characteristic polynomial of a matroid form a log-concave sequence. I will outline a proof for representable matroids using Milnor numbers and the Bergman fan. The same approach to the conjecture in the general case (for possibly non-representable matroids) leads to several intriguing questions on higher codimension algebraic cycles in toric varieties.
Treatment of Acute HIV Infection and the Potential Role of Acutely HIV-Infected Persons in Cure Studies

Diagnosis of acute HIV infection is important for accurate estimation of HIV incidence, identifying persons who are unaware of their HIV infection, and offering immediate treatment and risk-reduction strategies. The higher viral loads associated with acute HIV infection are associated with an increased risk of transmission. Current treatment recommendations are the same for acute and established infections. Studies of acute HIV infection indicate that initiation of antiretroviral therapy during this period may allow greater recovery of CD4+ T-cell count and function and may result in a smaller latent viral reservoir and a skewing of infection away from central memory CD4+ T cells toward shorter-lived transitional memory CD4+ T cells. This article summarizes a presentation by Susan J. Little, MD, at the IAS-USA continuing education program, Improving the Management of HIV Disease, held in Los Angeles, California, in April 2015.
Closed bipolar electrode-enabled dual-cell electrochromic detectors for chemical sensing

Bipolar electrodes (BPE) are electrically floating metallic elements placed in electrified fluids that enable the coupling of anodic and cathodic redox reactions at the opposite ends by electron transfer through the electrode. One particularly compelling application allows electron transfer reactions at one end of a closed BPE to be read out optically by inducing a redox-initiated change in the optical response function of a reporter system at the other end. Here, a BPE-enabled method for electrochemical sensing based on the electrochromic response of a methyl viologen (MV) reporter is developed, characterized, and rendered in a field-deployable format. BPE-enabled devices based on two thin-layer-cells of ITO and Pt were fabricated to couple an analytical reaction in one cell with an MV reporter reaction, producing a color change in the complementary cell. Using Fe(CN)63/4- as a model analyte, the electrochemically induced color change of MV was determined initially by measuring its absorbance via a CCD camera coupled to a microscope. Then, smartphone-based detection and RGB analysis were employed to further simplify the sensing scheme. Both methods produced a linear relationship between the analyte concentration, the quantity of MV generated, and the colorimetric response, yielding a limit of detection of 1.0 μM. Similar responses were observed in the detection of dopamine and acetaminophen. Further evolution of the device replaced the potentiostat with batteries to control potential, demonstrating the simplicity and portability of the device. Finally, the physical separation of the reporter and analytical cells renders the device competent to detect analytes in different (e.g. non-aqueous) phases, as demonstrated by using the electrochromic behavior of aqueous MV to detect ferrocene in acetonitrile in the analytical cell.
INCB24360 (Epacadostat), a Highly Potent and Selective Indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) Inhibitor for Immuno-oncology

A data-centric medicinal chemistry approach led to the invention of a potent and selective IDO1 inhibitor 4f, INCB24360 (epacadostat). The molecular structure of INCB24360 contains several previously unknown or underutilized functional groups in drug substances, including a hydroxyamidine, furazan, bromide, and sulfamide. These moieties taken together in a single structure afford a compound that falls outside of “drug-like” space. Nevertheless, the in vitro ADME data is consistent with the good cell permeability and oral bioavailability observed in all species (rat, dog, monkey) tested. The extensive intramolecular hydrogen bonding observed in the small molecule crystal structure of 4f is believed to significantly contribute to the observed permeability and PK. Epacadostat in combination with anti-PD1 mAb pembrolizumab is currently being studied in a phase 3 clinical trial in patients with unresectable or metastatic melanoma.
Endoscopic Mucosal Dissection

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is an innovative, advanced endoscopic approach to superficial gastrointestinal neoplasms which is becoming a “standard” treatment option and has the potential to revolutionize treatment of early alimentary cancers. Colorectal neoplasia represents an important potential niche for the clinical application of ESD in the United States given the prevalence of these tumors. ESD is a reliable but technically challenging method for en bloc resection of gastrointestinal lesions and requires dedicated equipment, a unique skill set, and experience.
Verified Control of Near-Earth Asteroid Orbits

Abstract Orbit calculations of near-earth asteroids pose several difficult challenges. First of all, due to the fact that the impact of such an object is potentially serious, the problem requires as precise an answer as possible, for a relatively large range of initial conditions determined by measurement inaccuracies. Secondly, while the primary force to govern the equation of motion is the gravity of the sun, there are many other factors to influence the details of asteroid motion, making the resulting ODE quite complicated. Thirdly, based on the guaranteed prediction of the near-earth passage, a control of the asteroid orbit has to be provided if necessary, which requires verified global optimizations to determine the timing and the direction and intensity of the momentum transfer. In this paper, we outline an approach to exclude collisions or determine the minimum amount of momentum transfer necessary for their avoidance. The approach is based on verified ODE integration and verified global optimization based on the Taylor Model approach.
Template Aware Coverage: Taking Coverage Analysis to the Next Level

Understanding the relationship between coverage and test-templates (a generic term we use to describe the inputs for the random stimuli generator) is an important layer in understanding the state and progress of the verification process. Today, this is extremely hard to achieve and is based on expert knowledge. Template Aware Coverage (TAC) is a novel approach to meeting this challenge. Based on collecting statistics of the relations between coverage and test-templates, TAC maintains these statistics in efficient data structures. It also introduces analytics means to provide useful information based on this data. Template Aware Coverage is currently being used in the verification of a high-end processor systems, where it significantly helps hitting hard-to-hit coverage events as well as never hit events.
Postoperative delirium in a 64-year-old woman.

Nine days after surgery, her mental status takes an abrupt turn for the worse. What is going on?