cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
TLR and IKK Complex-Mediated Innate Immune Signaling Inhibits Stress Granule Assembly.

Cellular stress can induce cytoplasmic ribonucleoprotein complexes called stress granules that allow the cells to survive. Stress granules are also central to cellular responses to infections, in which they can act as platforms for viral sending or modulate innate immune signaling through pattern recognition receptors. However, the effect of innate immune signaling on stress granules is poorly understood. In this study, we report that prior induction of innate immune signaling through TLRs inhibited stress granule assembly in a TLR ligand dose-dependent manner in murine bone marrow-derived macrophages. Time course analysis suggests that TLR stimulation can reverse stress granule assembly even after it has begun. Additionally, both MYD88- and TRIF-mediated TLR signaling inhibited stress granule assembly in response to endoplasmic reticulum stress in bone marrow-derived macrophages and the chemotherapeutic drug oxaliplatin in murine B16 melanoma cells. This inhibition was not due to a decrease in expression of the critical stress granule proteins G3BP1 and DDX3X and was independent of IRAK1/4, JNK, ERK and P38 kinase activity but dependent on IKK complex kinase activity. Overall, we have identified the TLR-IKK complex signaling axis as a regulator of stress granule assembly-disassembly dynamics, highlighting cross-talk between processes that are critical in health and disease.
Least-squares ReLU neural network (LSNN) method for linear advection-reaction equation

Abstract This paper studies least-squares ReLU neural network method for solving the linear advection-reaction problem with discontinuous solution. The method is a discretization of an equivalent least-squares formulation in the set of neural network functions with the ReLU activation function. The method is capable of approximating the discontinuous interface of the underlying problem automatically through the free hyper-planes of the ReLU neural network and, hence, outperforms mesh-based numerical methods in terms of the number of degrees of freedom. Numerical results of some benchmark test problems show that the method can not only approximate the solution with the least number of parameters, but also avoid the common Gibbs phenomena along the discontinuous interface. Moreover, a three-layer ReLU neural network is necessary and sufficient in order to well approximate a discontinuous solution with an interface in R 2 that is not a straight line.
COVID-19 Convalescent plasma.

As the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic led to a global health crisis, there were limited treatment options and no prophylactic therapies for those exposed to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Convalescent plasma is quick to implement, potentially provides benefits, and has a good safety profile. The therapeutic potential of COVID-19 convalescent plasma (CCP) is likely mediated by antibodies through direct viral neutralization and Fc-dependent functions such as a phagocytosis, complement activation, and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. In the United States, CCP became one of the most common treatments with over half million units transfused despite limited efficacy data. More than a dozen randomized trials now demonstrate that CCP does not provide benefit for those with moderate to severe disease. However, similar to other passive antibody therapies, CCP is beneficial for early disease, when provided to elderly outpatients within 72 hours after symptom onset. Only high-titer CCP should be transfused. CCP should also be considered for immunosuppressed COVID-19 patients. CCP collected in proximity, by time and location, to the patient may be more beneficial due to SARS-CoV-2 variants. Additional randomized trial data are still accruing and should be incorporated with other trial data to optimize CCP indications.
Analysis of the Paleoindian Double Burial from Horn Shelter No. 2, in Central Texas

In 1970 a Paleoindian double burial, comprised of an adult and child, was recovered from Horn Shelter Number 2, in central Texas. Radiocarbon dates indicate this burial dates to between 9,000 and 1...
Molecular screening of Mycobacterium vaccae for identification of novel anti-inflammatory compounds (IRM12P.651)

Mycobacterium vaccae is a saprophytic, non-pathogenic bacterium. Administration of M. vaccae in activates regulatory T cells (Treg) and attenuates allergic responses. M. vaccae- induced activation of Treg may be initiated through interactions with sentinel immune cells, such as macrophages. We are interested in identifying the particular immunoregulatory molecules produced by M. vaccae that suppress inflammatory signaling in macrophages. Consequently, we developed a reiterative cell-based screen as an unbiased approach to search the M. vaccae chemical landscape for potential anti-inflammatory small molecules. M. vaccae was grown in 7H9 broth as a mixture of both smooth and rough variants.We prepared hexane, ethyl acetate, and aqueous extracts of live M. vaccae cultures; cell-based assays were used to guide successive steps of purification. For cell-based assays, 100 µg/ml of the extracts were incubated with freshly isolated murine peritoneal macrophages, and, after one hour, the cultures were stimulated with 1 µg/ml of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Interleukin 6 (IL-6) concentrations in the supernatant 12h after stimulation were measured via ELISA as a determinant of inflammatory response. After 5 iterations of screening and evaluation of 80 fractions, we identified 3 fractions from the ethyl acetate extract with potent anti-inflammatory properties. From mass spectrometry, we expect the molecules to be lipid conjugates, and we are in preparation for a structural analysis.
The Einstein Podolsky Rosen paradox: might nature be more imaginative than us?

We present arguments against the existence of the EPR state using only elementary fundamental properties of quantum mechanics. The popular arguments in favor of the EPR, such as the example given by Einstein et al, the superposition principle, and the conservation of angular momentum are discussed and found not compelling. With particular emphasis we argue that an action at a distance which would justify the EPR must be a message violating special relativity.
Involvement of cannabinoid CB2 receptor-mediated response and efficacy of cannabinoid CB2 receptor inverse agonist, JTE-907, in cutaneous inflammation in mice

Abstract Involvement of cannabinoid CB2 receptor and effect of cannabinoid CB2 receptor antagonist/inverse agonists on cutaneous inflammation were investigated. Mice ears topically exposed to an ether-linked analogue of 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG-E) or selective cannabinoid CB2 receptor agonist, {4-[4-(1,1-dimethylheptyl)-2,6-dimethoxy-phenyl]-6.6-dimethyl-bicyclo[3.1.1]hept-2-en-2-yl}-methanol (HU-308), had early and late ear swelling (0–24 h and 1–8 days after exposure, respectively). Both types of responses induced by 2-AG-E were significantly suppressed by oral administration of cannabinoid CB2 receptor antagonist/inverse agonists, [N-(benzo[1,3]dioxol-5-ylmethyl)-7-methoxy-2-oxo-8-pentyloxy-1,2-dihydroquinoline-3-carboxamide] (JTE-907) and {N-[(1S)-endo-1,3,3-trimethylbicyclo[2.2.1]heptan-2yl]5-(4-chloro-3-methyl-phenyl)-1-(4-methylbenzyl)pyrazole-3-carboxamide}} (SR144528). In contrast, JTE-907 did not affect arachidonic acid-induced swelling. Orally administered JTE-907 (0.1–10 mg/kg) and SR144528 (1 mg/kg) also produced significant inhibition of dinitrofluorobenzene-induced ear swelling, with increased cannabinoid CB2 receptor mRNA expression observed in the inflamed ear. These results suggest that cannabinoid CB2 receptor is partially involved in local inflammatory responses and cannabinoid CB2 receptor antagonist/inverse agonist has beneficial effects on ear swelling.
Comparaison biomécanique de trois techniques reconstructrices d’un spondylolisthésis sur un modèle rachidien de veau

Summary Summary of background data Previous work has demonstrated the efficacy of lumbar pedicle screw hook rod (PSHR) techniques and the Buck screw in the stabilization of spondylolysis. The mechanical behavior of lower profile cervical implants used to create PSHR, hybrid cable plate constructs, and titanium mini-plating has not previously been described. Methods Calf lumbar spines (L2-L6) were utilized for testing (n = 27). Intervertebral rotation was measured in the intact spines across the L4-5 segment before and after creation of bilateral pars interarticularis defects. Defects were then stabilized with one of three repair techniques, PSHR, mini-plate, or cable plate (CP) constructs (n = 9). A 5 Nm load was applied in flexion extension, lateral bending and axial rotation. Fracture displacement was measured under flexion extension and lateral bending modes. Results Osteotomy of the pars interarticularis increased intervertebral rotation from 4.6° to 9.2° (P Conclusions Bilateral mini-plate fixation demonstrates superiority in restoring stability in lateral bending as compared to pedicle screw hook rod techniques and cable plate constructs. In flexion extension and axial rotation, it was as effective as a PSHR method. Consideration of anatomic plate designs warrants consideration. Level of evidence IV.
Extraction of Nutraceuticals from Milk Thistle

Milk thistle contains compounds that display hepatoxic protection properties. We examined the batch extraction of silymarin compounds from milk thistle seed meal in 50, 70, 85, and 100°C water as a function of time. After 210 min of extraction at 100°C, the yield of taxifolin was 1.2 mg/g of seed, a 6.2-fold increase over the results obtained in a Soxhlet extraction with ethanol on pretreated (defatted) seeds. Similarly, the yield of silychristin was 5.0 mg/g of seed, a 3.8-fold increase. The yields of silybinin A and silybinin B were 1.8 and 3.3 mg/g of seed, respectively, or roughly 30% of the Soxhlet yield. The ratios of the extracted compounds, and particularly the ratios at long extraction times, showed that the more polar compounds (taxifolin and silychristin) were preferentially extracted at 85°C, while the less polar silybinin was favored at 100°C.
Models of interface separation accompanied by plastic dissipation at multiple scales

Two continuum mechanical models of interface fracture for interfaces joining materials where at least one undergoes plastic deformation are reviewed and examined critically. The embedded process zone model (EPZ model) has an adhesive zone, characterized by a work of separation and an interface strength, embedded within a continuum model of the adjoining materials. The SSV model imposes an elastic, plasticity-free layer of prescribed thickness between the interface and the surrounding elastic-plastic continuum. Crack advance requires the work of separation to be supplied by the local elastic crack tip field. The objective of each model is to provide the relation between the macroscopic interface toughness (the total work of fracture) and the work of separation. Under steady-state crack growth, the total work of fracture is the work of separation plus the work of plastic dissipation, the latter often far exceeding the former. It will be argued that each model has its own domain of validity, subject to the accuracy of conventional continuum plasticity at small scales, but neither is able to capture the dramatic trends which have been observed in macroscopic toughness measurements stemming from alterations in interface bonding conditions. A unified model is proposed which coincides with the two models in their respective domains of validity and provides a transition between them. Interface separation energy and interface strength (the peak separation stress) each play a central role in the unified model. Strain gradient plasticity is used to illustrate the effect of plastic deformation at the micron scale on the link between interface and macroscopic properties.
Choral Arranging for the Adolescent Voice: Selecting and Adapting Indigenous Music into the Curriculum

This paper will focus upon the vocal, musical and textual factors that I consider when arranging music for the adolescent voice. I will then discuss how to select and adapt indigenous music to include in the curriculum. (In the presentation, we will work through an arrangement of a Newfoundland folk song as an example of the processes involved for the arranger.)
Expression, purification, and crystallization of the adipocyte lipid binding protein.

The murine adipocyte lipid binding protein (ALBP/aP2) has been cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli, purified to homogeneity, biochemically characterized, and crystallized for x-ray diffraction study. In the cloning, the ALBP coding region was placed under control of the recA promoter and downstream of the phage T7 g-10 translation enhancer sequence. Nalidixic acid (50 micrograms/ml) induced the expression of ALBP 20-fold over that attained using the pT7 system previously reported (Chinander, L. L., and Bernlohr, D. A. (1989) J. Biol. Chem. 264, 19564-19572). Recombinant ALBP was purified to homogeneity using a combination of pH fractionation, gel filtration, and immobilized metal affinity chromatography. The fluorescent affinity ligand 12-(9-anthroyloxy)oleic acid bound to homogeneous ALBP with an apparent Kd of 0.5 microM. rALBP was devoid of endogenous fatty acid, and oleic acid inhibited cysteine 117 modification by 5,5' -dithiobis-(2-nitrobenzoic acid) indicating integrity of the binding domain. Recombinant ALBP was phosphorylated by the soluble kinase domain of the insulin receptor with a Vmax of 11 nmol.min.mg of kinase and an apparent Km of 270 microM. Purified protein was crystallized using the hanging drop method with seeding. Crystalline ALBP was orthorhombic with cell dimensions of a = 34.4 A, b = 54.8 A, and c = 76.3 A. The space group was P212121, and there was one molecule per asymmetric unit.
A realignment of marine biogeographic provinces with particular reference to fish distributions

Marine provinces, founded on contrasting floras or faunas, have been recognized for more than 150 years but were not consistently defined by endemism until 1974. At that time, provinces were based on at least a 10% endemism and nested within biogeographic regions that covered large geographic areas with contrasting biotic characteristics. Over time, some minor adjustments were made but the overall arrangement remained essentially unaltered. In many provinces, data on endemism were still not available, or were available only for the most widely studied vertebrates (fishes), a problem that is ongoing. In this report we propose a realignment for three reasons. First, recent works have provided new information to modify or redefine the various divisions and to describe new ones, including the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, Southern Ocean, Tropical East Pacific and Northeast Pacific. Second, phylogeographic studies have demonstrated genetic subdivisions within and between species that generally corroborated provinces based on taxonomic partitions, with a notable exception at the Indian–Pacific oceanic boundary. Third, the original separation of the warm-temperate provinces from the adjoining tropical ones has distracted from their close phylogenetic relationships. Here we propose uniting warm-temperate and tropical regions into a single warm region within each ocean basin, while still recognizing provinces within the warm-temperate and tropical zones. These biogeographic subdivisions are based primarily on fish distribution but utilize other marine groups for comparison. They are intended to demonstrate the evolutionary relationships of the living marine biota, and to serve as a framework for the establishment of smaller ecological units in a conservation context.
Gecko: a contention-oblivious design for cloud storage

Disk contention is a fact of life in modern data centers, with multiple applications sharing the storage resources of a single physical machine. Log-structured storage designs are ideally suited for such high-contention settings, but historically have suffered from performance problems due to cleaning overheads. In this paper, we introduce Gecko, a novel design for storage arrays where a single log structure is distributed across a chain of drives, physically separating the tail of the log (where writes occur) from its body. This design provides the benefits of logging - fast, sequential writes for any number of contending applications - while eliminating the disruptive effect of log cleaning activity on application I/O.
A rapid approach for automated comparison of independently derived stream networks

This paper presents an improved coefficient of line correspondence (CLC) metric for automatically assessing the similarity of two different sets of linear features. Elevation-derived channels at 1:...
MEG detection of delayed auditory evoked responses in autism spectrum disorders: towards an imaging biomarker for autism.

Motivated by auditory and speech deficits in autism spectrum disorders (ASD), the frequency dependence of superior temporal gyrus (STG) 50 msec (M50) and 100 msec (M100) neuromagnetic auditory evoked field responses in children with ASD and typically developing controls were evaluated. Whole-cortex magnetoencephalography (MEG) was obtained from 17 typically developing children and 25 children with ASD. Subjects were presented tones with frequencies of 200, 300, 500, and 1,000 Hz, and left and right STG M50 and M100 STG activity was examined. No M50 latency or amplitude Group differences were observed. In the right hemisphere, a Group × Frequency ANOVA on M100 latency produced a main effect for Group (P 5 0.01), with an average M100 latency delay of 11 msec in children with ASD. In addition, only in the control group was the expected association of earlier M100 latencies in older than younger children observed. Group latency differences remained significant when hierarchical regression analyses partialed out M100 variance associated with age, IQ, and language ability (all P-values < 0.05). Examining the right-hemisphere 500 Hz condition (where the largest latency differences were observed), a sensitivity of 75%, a specificity of 81%, and a positive predictive value (PPV) of 86% was obtained at a threshold of 116 msec. The M100 latency delay indicates disruption of encoding simple sensory information. Given similar findings in language impaired and nonlanguage impaired ASD subjects, a right-hemisphere M100 latency delay appears to be an electrophysiological endophenotype for autism.
3D Printed Molecules and Extended Solid Models for Teaching Symmetry and Point Groups

Tangible models help students and researchers visualize chemical structures in three dimensions (3D). 3D printing offers a unique and straightforward approach to fabricate plastic 3D models of molecules and extended solids. In this article, we prepared a series of digital 3D design files of molecular structures that will be useful for teaching chemical education topics such as symmetry and point groups. Two main file preparation methods are discussed within this article that outlines how to prepare 3D printable chemical structures. Both methods start with either a crystallographic information file (.cif) or a protein databank (.pdb) file and are ultimately converted into a 3D stereolithography (.stl) file by using a variety of commercially and freely available software. From the series of digital 3D chemical structures prepared, 18 molecules and 7 extended solids were 3D printed. Our results show that the file preparation methods discussed within this article are both suitable routes to prepare 3D printab...
Separation of potential flavoring compounds by high-performance liquid chromatography☆

Abstract High-performance liquid chromatography separated successively and quantitatively the food flavoring agents pyrimidines, purines and nucleosides, followed by nucleotides, then by polyphenols and finally by pyrazines with a reversed-phase octadecylsilica (μBondapak C 18 ) column and various proportions of methanol, water, acetic acid and tetrabutylammonium phosphate (PIC A). The polar solvent (solvent A) was water—acetic acid—PIC A (97.5:1.5:1.0) and the relatively non-polar solvent (solvent B) was methanol—acetic acid—PIC A (97.5:1.5:1.0). Purines, pyrimidines, and nucleosides were eluted with solvent A. Nucleotides were eluted with a mixture of solvents A and B (9:1). Polyphenols were separated with a gradient starting at 10% solvent B and finishing at 25% solvent B, and finally the pyrazines were removed successively from the column with a gradient starting at 25% solvent B and finishing at 45% solvent B. The resolution and reproducibility were excellent for more than 50 compounds. By this method beverages could be analyzed directly, without solvent extraction, for flavoring compounds.
Growth factor modulation of melanoma growth stimulatory activity mRNA expression in human malignant melanoma cells correlates with cell growth

This report demonstrates that the expression of melanoma growth stimulatory activity (MGSA) mRNA can be modulated in a positive fashion in the Hs294T human melanoma cell line by PDGF and MGSA. There is close correlation between MGSA expression and the pattern of cell growth in Hs294T cells.
Reversing stroke in the 2010s: lessons from Desmoteplase In Acute ischemic Stroke-2 (DIAS-2).

Marc Fisher MD Kennedy Lees MD Section Editors: Only months from now, another decade will dawn on stroke research with a dearth of therapeutic innovations developed to reverse the devastating effects of acute ischemic stroke. Despite generations of academic research investigators and associated industry collaborations, our clinical trials have marked each decade by successive eras of failed treatments with only a few exceptions. The recent publication of results from the Desmoteplase In Acute ischemic Stroke (DIAS)-2 trial provides important lessons that may hold the clues to reversing stroke in the 2010s.1 DIAS-2 was undoubtedly a landmark study, incorporating sophisticated trial design with the latest innovations in CT and MRI techniques to confirm benefit of a novel fibrinolytic agent to treat acute ischemic stroke up to 9 hours after symptom onset. The potential for another stroke therapy in clinical practice was replaced by collective introspection on the determinants of yet another negative trial after earlier positive results.2 Once again, an article starts by underscoring the limited treatment options for stroke, details the saga of an elaborate yet negative clinical trial, and ends by noting that the “criteria to optimize the selection and treatment outcomes” remain elusive. The perpetual motion of academia echoes the familiar chorus that further studies are indicated, but perhaps this philosophical juncture provides an opportunity to heed important lessons learned. An endless list of reasons can be cited for failure, like in the litany of articles on neuroprotective trials or the thoughtful considerations of Stroke Therapy Academic Industry Roundtable (STAIR),3,4 yet most are difficult to prove or easily remedy without a comprehensive overhaul. Overall, DIAS-2 teaches us that the traditional approaches to stroke therapy may require revision of our currently engrained textbook approach to key variables such as time, imaging of the penumbra, ischemic pathophysiology, …
Design of Crashworthy Structures With Controlled Energy Absorption in the HCA Framework

This work presents a novel method for designing crashworthy structures with controlled energy absorption based on the use of compliant mechanisms. This method helps in introducing flexibility at desired locations within the structure, which in turn reduces the peak force at the expense of a reasonable increase in intrusion. For this purpose, the given design domain is divided into two subdomains: flexible (FSD) and stiff (SSD) subdomains. The design in the flexible subdomain is governed by the compliant mechanism synthesis approach for which output ports are defined at the interface between the two subdomains. These output ports aid in defining potential load paths and help the user make better use of a given design space. The design in the stiff subdomain is governed by the principle of a fully-stressed design for which material is distributed to achieve uniform energy distribution within the design space. Together, FSD and SSD provide for a combination of flexibility and stiffness in the structure, which is desirable for most crash applications.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Photoelectrochemical properties of plasma-deposited TiO2 thin films

Abstract Photoanodes were fabricated from TiO2 films deposited onto titanium substrates by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition. The photocurrent-wavelength and photocurrent-voltage properties of the anodes were determined and compared with those of thermally grown TiO2 photoanodes. The plasma-deposited photoanodes displayed quantum efficiencies higher than those for the thermally grown films and comparable with those reported for single-crystal rutile. The microstructure of the plasma-deposited films appeared to be primarily responsible for the high quantum efficiencies.
Phenomenological experience in response to monotonous drumming and hypnotizability.

Abstract Participants (N = 206) experienced 15-min of monotonous drumming either before or after hypnosis (Harvard scale). Participants completed the Phenomenology of Consciousness Inventory (PCI) in reference to the last 4-min of drumming. Stimulus order did not affect the objective trance levels as measured by the Harvard scores. The subjective trance level as measured by hypnoidal scores (predicted Harvard scores from the PCI) was significantly higher when drumming preceded hypnosis. Participants' estimated average trance level achieved during drumming fell in the medium range of susceptibility (5–8) (Pekala, 1995). Participants who achieved higher hypnoidal and Harvard scores were more likely to report relaxed feelings and shamanic-type experiences in narratives about their subjective experiences during drumming.
Optimisation of direct auto-zeroing offset cancellation in low voltage applications using dual level CMFB

A modified CMFB circuit is presented that reinstates the use of direct opamp auto-zeroing offset cancellation techniques in low voltage applications. This approach is particularly useful for high precision sample and hold amplifiers and Nyquist rate ADCs, where the opamp is reset during one of the clock phases. Differential offsets up to 50 mV are effectively reduced as demonstrated by a sample and hold example.
Excitation energy dependence of neutron yields and fragment kinetic energy release in the proton induced fission of 233U and 238U

Abstract The yields and energies of neutrons emitted from fission fragments of known mass were measured as a function of proton bombarding energy for 233 U and 238 U. The familiar sawtooth dependence of v , the number of neutrons emitted per fragment, on the fragment mass was found to be considerably washed out with increasing bombarding energy, with the depth of the minimum at A ≈ 132 decreasing more rapidly than that at A ≈ 80. As the bombarding energy is increased the yield of neutrons from the heavy fragment increases more rapidly than does that of the light fragment. The results are interpreted in terms of qualitative considerations on energy-apportionment between fragments at the time of scission. Structure in the variation of the total fragment kinetic energy with mass ratio was observed to decrease at higher bombarding energies. The nuclear level density parameter a of the final fragments has been obtained as a function of fragment mass from the neutron kinetic energy and yield data. The a -values are observed to increase for fragments near closed shells and to decrease for mid-shell fragments as the excitation energy is increased.
Evidence for convection in planetary interiors from first-order topography.

Center of mass-center of figure offsets are known for the Earth, Moon, Mars and Venus. Such an offset requires a density distribution asymmetric about the center of mass. Observational evidence indicates that the terrestrial, lunar and Martian offsets result from crusts of variable thickness rather than lateral density inhomogeneities and that the thickness variations are more likely caused by internal convection than impact.
Presence of the μ3 Opiate Receptor in Endothelial Cells COUPLING TO NITRIC OXIDE PRODUCTION AND VASODILATION

Initial confinement of opiate receptors to the nervous system has recently been broadened to several other cell types. Based on the well established hypotensive effect of morphine, we hypothesized that endothelial cells may represent a target for this opiate substance. Endothelial cells (human arterial and rat microvascular) contain a high affinity, saturable opiate binding site presumed to mediate the morphine effects that is stereoselectively and characteristically antagonized by naloxone. This opiate alkaloid-specific binding site is insensitive to opioid peptides. It is, therefore, considered to be the same subtype of opiate receptor (designated μ3) used in the mediation of morphine in other cell types exhibiting the same binding profile. Experiments with endothelial cultures and the aortic ring of rats cultured in vitro demonstrate that morphine exerts direct modulatory control over the activities of endothelial cells, which leads to vasodilation. It induces the production of nitric oxide, a process that is sensitive to naloxone antagonism and nitric oxide synthase inhibition. In contrast with that of opiates, the administration of opioid peptides does not induce nitric oxide production by endothelial cells. In conclusion, the data presented above reveal a novel site of morphine action, endothelial cells, where a μ3 receptor is coupled to nitric oxide release and vasodilation.
Noise induced oscillations and coherence resonance in a generic model of the nonisothermal chemical oscillator

Oscillating chemical reactions are common in biological systems and they also occur in artificial non-biological systems. Generally, these reactions are subject to random fluctuations in environmental conditions which translate into fluctuations in the values of physical variables, for example, temperature. We formulate a mathematical model for a nonisothermal minimal chemical oscillator containing a single negative feedback loop and study numerically the effects of stochastic fluctuations in temperature in the absence of any deterministic limit cycle or periodic forcing. We show that noise in temperature can induce sustained limit cycle oscillations with a relatively narrow frequency distribution and some characteristic frequency. These properties differ significantly depending on the noise correlation. Here, we have explored white and colored (correlated) noise. A plot of the characteristic frequency of the noise induced oscillations as a function of the correlation exponent shows a maximum, therefore indicating the existence of autonomous stochastic resonance, i.e. coherence resonance.
Hardware/software co-design with the HMS framework

Hardware/Software co-design is an increasingly common design style for integrated circuits. It allows the majority of a system to designed quickly with standardized parts, while special purpose hardware is used for the time critical portions of the system. The framework considered in this paper performs Hardware/Multi-Software (HMS) co-design for iterative loops, given an input specification that includes the system to be built, the number of available processors, the total chip area, and the required response time. Originally, all operations are done in software. The system then substitutes hardware (adder, multiplier, bus) for software based on theneedability of each type of hardware unit. After a new hardware unit is introduced the system is rescheduled using a variation of rotation scheduling in which operations may be moved between processors. Experimental results are shown that illustrate the efficiency of the algorithms as well as the savings achieved.
Structural and Mechanical Characteristics of Anodic Oxide Films on Titanium

Abstract Oxide films were grown electrochemically on polycrystalline titanium in 0.1 M sulfuric acid (H2SO4) from open-circuit potential to a final potential of 9.4 V (vs silver-silver chloride [Ag...
Multiple component self-control program for menopausal hot flashes

Four menopausal women served as their own controls in a study of the application of behavioral methods to the treatment of hot flashes. After a 3-or 4-week baseline period, they received 10 sessions of training in a variety of stress and temperature control techniques, including relaxation, self-suggestions of cool thoughts and images, marital contingency contracting and temperature feedback. The percentage reductions in number of flashes between the last 2 weeks of baseline and the last 2 weeks of training were 41, 75, 76 and 90 for the 4 participants. Treatment gains were maintained at 6-months follow-up. These substantial reductions in frequency of hot flashes offer strong support for the further investigation of the use of behavioral methods as alternatives or additions to medicative therapies.
CT detector evaluation with complex random backgrounds

Modern computed tomography (CT) uses detector arrays consisting of large numbers of photodiodes with scintil- lator crystals. The number of pixels in the array can play an important role in system performance. Considerable research has been performed on signal detection in flat backgrounds under various conditions, but little has been done with complex, random backgrounds in CT; our work investigates in particular the effect of the number of detector elements on signal detection by a channelized Hotelling observer in a complex background. For this project, a simulated three-dimensional phantom is generated with its attenuation equal to that of water. The phantom contains a smaller central section with random variations to simulate random anatomical structures. Cone-beam projections of the phantom are acquired at different angles and used to calculate the covariance matrix of the raw projection data. Laguerre-Gauss channels are used to reduce the dimensionality of each 2D projection and hence the size of the covariance matrix, but the covariance is still a function of two projection angles. A strong cross-channel correlation is observed as a function of the difference between the angles. A signal with known location and size is used, and the performance of the observer is calculated from the channel outputs at multiple projection angles. A contrast-detail diagram is computed for different variables such as signal size, number of incident x-ray photons, pixel size, etc. At a fixed observer signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), the contrast required to detect a signal increases dramatically as the signal size decreases.
Regulation of collagen synthesis

Collagen synthesis is a complex orchestration of intra-cellular and extracellular events. In addition to synthesis of the polypeptide chains more than a dozen modifications of the molecule occur; most of these are enzymatic and specific for collagen. Regulational control of collagen synthesis promises to be equally complex. Examples are described to 4 specific regulatory influences. Ascorbic acid markedly stimulates collagen synthesis without affecting synthesis of other proteins. This effect appears to be unrelated to its cofactor roles for hydroxylation of lysine and proline. Glucocorticoids at μM concentration specifically inhibit collagen synthesis. Tissues treated with glucocorticoids have diminished levels of mRNA for collagen. During collagen synthesis the aminoter-minal propeptide of procollagen is cleaved by a specific protease. This peptide appears to be a feedback inhibitor of collagen synthesis. This effect can be demonstrated in cells and in cell-free synthesizing systems. A membrane receptor system may permit the peptide to be recognized and subsequently act as a translational control mechanism. Viral transformation of fibroblasts results in selectively decreased synthesis of collagen. Levels of cytoplasmic and nuclear mRNA are likewise selectively diminished consistent with transcriptional control.
Artificial recharge of groundwater and its role in water management

Abstract This paper summarizes and discusses the various aspects and methods of artificial recharge with particular emphasis on its uses and potential role in water management in the Arabian Gulf region. Artificial recharge occurs when man's activities cause more water to enter an aquifer, either under pumping or non-pumping conditions, than otherwise would enter the aquifer. Use of artificial recharge can be a practical means of dealing with problems of overdraft of groundwater. Methods of artificial recharge may be grouped under two broad types: (a) water spreading techniques, and (b) well-injection techniques. Successful use of artificial recharge requires a thorough knowledge of the physical and chemical characteristics of the aquifier system, and extensive onsite experimentation and tailoring of the artificial-recharge technique to fit the local or areal conditions. In general, water spreading techniques are less expensive than well injection and large quantities of water can be handled. Water spreading can also result in significant improvement in quality of recharge waters during infiltration and movement through the unsaturated zone and the receiving aquifer. In comparison, well-injection techniques are often used for emplacement of fresh recharge water into saline aquifer zones to form a manageable lens of fresher water, which may later be partially withdrawn for use or continue to be maintained as a barrier against salt-water encroachment. A major advantage in use of groundwater is its availability, on demand to wells, from a natural storage reservoir that is relatively safe from pollution and from damage by sabotage or other hostile action. However, fresh groundwater occurs only in limited quantities in most of the Arabian Gulf region; also, it is heavily overdrafted in many areas, and receives very little natural recharge. Good use could be made of artificial recharge by well injection in replenishing and managing aquifers in strategic locations if sources of freshwater could be made available for the artificial-recharge operations.
Computer-aided polyp detection in CT colonography using an ensemble of support vector machines

Abstract In this paper, we propose a new classification scheme for computer-aided detection (CAD) of colonic polyps in CT colonography (CTC). The scheme involves an ensemble of support vector machines (SVMs) for classification, a smoothed leave-one-out (SLOO) cross-validation method for obtaining error estimates, and the use of a bootstrap aggregation method for training and model selection. Our use of an ensemble of SVM classifiers with bagging (bootstrap aggregation), built on different feature subsets, is intended to improve classification performance when compared to single SVMs and to reduce the number of false positive detections. The bagging technique has the effect of a virtual increase in the training set size and, as a consequence, also helps to reduce the bias of error estimates when combined with a leave-one-out cross-validation approach. The bootstrap-based model selection technique is used for tuning the SVM parameters.
The refractive error of the fish eye

Abstract Goldfish eyes were rapidly frozen and sectioned and the lens radii and distances between the lens and the two retinal surfaces were measured. These measurements were used to calculate the refractive error at each of the two retinal surfaces. A comparison with refractive errors determined with a retinoscope just prior to freezing indicates that, in fish, the retinoscopic finding is based upon reflection from the retina-choroid border and not from the retina-vitreous surface. A subsequent examination of longitudinal chromatic aberration of fish lenses indicates that a substantial amount of chromatic aberration exists. The consideration of this finding in association with the restricted spectral range ol aquatic habitats suggests that the fish eye is less hyperopic in its natural environment than that found using conventional non-monochromatic measurements of refractive error.
Decreasing methane emission of rice by better crop management

A field experiment was conducted to determine the effect of water management techniques for maintaining rice production and reducing methane emission in a Crowley silt loam paddy soil receiving high rice straw additions. A 2 x 5 factorial experiment was arranged in a split-plot design with two water management practices; alternately flooded and drained and continuously flooded, and five rates of rice straw incorporation as subplot treatments (0, 3, 6, 12 and 24 t ha -1 ), with four replications. Rice yield was significantly greater in the alternately flooded and drained treatment as compared with the continuously flooded treatment. High rice straw application (12 and 24 t ha -1 ) reduced rice yield in both water management treatments. Methane emission increased with increase in the rice straw application rate. However, emissions were lower in the alternately flooded and drained treatment plots. The results demonstrate that draining a field for a short period of time during the growing season can enhance rice growth and rice yield while reducing methane emission.
Game-based curriculum and transformational play: Designing to meaningfully positioning person, content, and context

Grounded in our work on designing game-based curriculum, this paper begins with a theoretical articulation of transformational play. Students who play transformationally become protagonists who use the knowledge, skills, and concepts of the educational content to first make sense of a situation and then make choices that actually transform the play space and themselves-they are able to see how that space changed because of their own efforts. Grounding these theoretical ideas, in this manuscript we describe one curriculum design informed by this theory. We also describe a study of the same teacher who was observed teaching two different curricula (game-based versus story-based) about persuasive writing. Results showed that while students in both classes demonstrated significant learning gains, the gains were significantly greater for students in the game-based classroom. Additionally, students assigned the game-based unit reported significantly higher levels of engagement, had different goals motivating their participation, and received fewer teacher reprimands to stay on task. Both quantitative and qualitative results are interpreted in terms of the theory of transformational play, which guided the design. Implications in terms of the power of game design methodologies for schools as well as learning theory more generally are discussed.
The Library Course Page and Instruction: Perceived Helpfulness and Use among Students

Research guides can be divided largely into guides on particular subjects—subject guides—and guides tailored to the specific needs of courses—course pages. Recent studies indicate that online research guides are generally not helpful to college students unless the guides are linked to a course, either by being a course page or by being accompanied by an instruction session with the librarian. In this article, we report the findings of a study where students in a medium–sized (25 student), upper–division business course were asked about the helpfulness of a course page, the helpfulness of the librarian's accompanying instruction session, and how much they used the page. The student survey used mostly Likert scale questions. The study also reports on the course page's link traffic. Our results confirm earlier findings that a course page used in conjunction with librarian instruction is an effective tool to enhance student research. There were no control groups, and all respondents received both course page ...
Bull's-eye cutaneous infarct of zygomycosis: A bedside diagnosis confirmed by touch preparation

We report an immunocompromised woman with chronic lymphocytic leukemia who developed cutaneous zygomycosis at the site of an arterial line. The initial lesion resembled a bulls-eye. Bull's-eye lesions of zygomycosis have been reported twice before. Recognition of this sign may allow the dermatologist to make a rapid presumptive diagnosis and initiate treatment for this life-threatening infection.
Development of Theme-based, Interdisciplinary, Integrated Curriculum: A Theoretical Model

Interest in interdisciplinary, integrated curriculum development continues to increase. However, teachers who have been given primary responsibility for developing these materials are often working with little guidance. A model for developing theme-based, interdisciplinary, integrated curriculum is presented in this article. The model includes two phases, a theme creation phase and an activity refinement phase. Validity criteria from the interdisciplinary curriculum literature are used to assess the power of potential themes. An integration continuum model is used to facilitate refinement of activities included in the theme-based instruction. The curriculum development model is used to clarify the meaning of the terms theme-based, interdisciplinary, and integrated. The model is intended to be used by curriculum developers to facilitate the creation of powerful interdisciplinary lessons.
Seizure susceptibility and avoidance conditioning in adult rats treated prenatally with chlorpromazine.

Offspring of female rats treated early in gestation with chlorpromazine (CPZ) were tested at 30 days of age for seizure susceptibility and at 90 days of age for shock avoidance learning. Fostering procedures permitted separation of prenatal influences from postnatal rearing influences of drug treatment. Offspring of drug-treated mothers had higher avoidance scores, higher intertrial activity levels, and greater seizure susceptibility than offspring of controls. Animals reared by previously treated mothers also had higher avoidance and greater seizure susceptibility. This postnatal effect depended on sex and was not accompanied by an overall increase in intertrial activity. Rearing by a previously drug-treated mother was also found to modify the influence of neonatal stress on adult avoidance learning.
Hepatitis A vaccination in patients with chronic liver disease: to screen or not to screen?

Hepatitis A vaccination in patients with chronic liver disease: to screen or not to screen?
Chemotherapeutic implants via subcritical CO2 modification.

Polymer-based biomaterials have a broad range of current applications in medicine. Many implants generate a favorable biomedical outcome solely by providing short-term mechanical stability that allows healing of the surrounding tissues. An example is polymeric reconstructive resorbable plates having initial strengths sufficient to stabilize bone segments while allowing the osteosynthesis needed to restore original function following tumor resection. Simultaneous, localized delivery of the widely employed chemotherapeutic paclitaxel following tumor removal presents a particularly desirable goal in this context. By using compressed/subcritical CO2 at moderate pressures (as opposed to the more familiar supercritical pressures) to embed paclitaxel in clinically utilized reconstructive plating, the form of the implant can be preserved while adding an inherently localized chemotherapeutic function. In vitro tests demonstrate the efficacy of the embedded paclitaxel against adherent MCF-7 breast cancer cells within the immediate area of the polylactic acid (PLA). CO2 can be utilized to add dual structural-chemotherapeutic function to polymeric surfaces without a change in form. The ability to ‘piggyback’ chemotherapeutic function into nearly any polymeric surface should find widespread utility.