cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A biased competition theory for the developmental cognitive neuroscience of visuo-spatial attention

Selective attention is crucial for navigating natural visual environments, which are often crowded with too many objects to process simultaneously. Research over the past few decades has led to influential theories describing neural mechanisms underlying selective attention in the adult brain. However, how children come to achieve adult-level selective attention functions has been explored much less. Here, we discuss specifically the existing literature on visuo-spatial attention development based on a theoretical framework that is grounded in biased competition theory, while integrating more recent evidence from neuroimaging and electrophysiology. In this forward-looking review, we emphasize that selective attention functions operate through interactions between the developing sensory cortices and fronto-parietal control network. Our framework may prove useful in probing selective attention functions in typical and atypical development.
Preliminary feasibility for recruiting and retaining black and white females to provide fecal samples for longitudinal research

As the associations between the gut microbiota and numerous health outcomes become more evident, it is important to conduct longitudinal microbiome research to advance the field beyond the identification of associations. It is also necessary to include individuals who have historically been underrepresented in biomedical research in longitudinal microbiome studies to better understand and eliminate racial/ethnic health disparities. This paper describes our experiences in recruiting and retaining participants for an ongoing, longitudinal microbiome study for which the main results will be reported at a later time. This article provides preliminary evidence of the feasibility of recruiting and retaining a racially diverse sample of females (97% completion for invited participants) for longitudinal microbiome research.
False Detection (Positives and Negatives) in Object Detection.

Object detection is a very important function of visual perception systems. Since the early days of classical object detection based on HOG to modern deep learning based detectors, object detection has improved in accuracy. Two stage detectors usually have higher accuracy than single stage ones. Both types of detectors use some form of quantization of the search space of rectangular regions of image. There are far more of the quantized elements than true objects. The way these bounding boxes are filtered out possibly results in the false positive and false negatives. This empirical experimental study explores ways of reducing false positives and negatives with labelled data.. In the process also discovered insufficient labelling in Openimage 2019 Object Detection dataset.
Small Farms Using Anaerobic Digestion: A Viable Technology Education and Outreach Effort

Anaerobic digestion (AD) on farms is receiving increasing attention as a technology for minimizing greenhouse gas emissions, reducing odors and pathogens, and generating energy. Although AD technol...
In Support of Initial Parenteral Medical Management of Intrathecal Baclofen Withdrawal in Spasticity Patients

Background: Spasticity may present as a wide range of symptoms and conditions. With this protean presentation, a consensus regarding the best course of treatment does not exist. Those patients most severely affected may receive significant benefit from intrathecal baclofen delivery. However, this therapy may itself lead to patient injury in the event of withdrawal. Objective: Withdrawal from intrathecal baclofen may devolve rapidly into a situation in which the patient may incur significant morbidity and even death. A focused, prompt treatment plan would afford the patient the best possible outcome. Methods: The medical literature was reviewed for reports of plans of treatment of baclofen withdrawal and the results obtained. The nature of this problem does not lend itself to a typical study design, depending on case reports and basic pharmacological science application. The paucity of such reports severely limits categorical comparison of patient characteristics and clinical circumstances. Clinical situations, patient characteristics, and therapies were considered and compared. Outcomes of the varied treatments were evaluated for efficacy. Results: Inaccurate diagnoses, delayed correct diagnoses, and the absence of a consistent, treatment plan contributed to widely disparate outcomes. Prompt, correct diagnosis and intensive care unit-based continuous benzodiazepine infusion with titration led to a controlled clinical situation and maximized patient outcomes. Conclusions: Patients going through withdrawal from intrathecal baclofen achieved best outcomes when treated with a continuous infusion and titration of an intravenous benzodiazepine. A well-defined treatment protocol employing this management, reporting serial outcomes, would enable further refinement of the treatment of this clinical problem.
Epithelioid hemangioma involving large arteries in the skin.

Epithelioid hemangioma (EH) is a benign vascular lesion, typically consisting of small vascular channels lined by epithelioid endothelial cells and associated with a dense lymphocytic infiltrate with eosinophils. Here, we report a rare case of EH involving large arteries. The patient presented with a nine-month history of an asymptomatic nodule on the forehead, which was thought to be an epidermal inclusion cyst. Skin biopsy revealed large arteries with clusters of epithelioid cells in the vascular walls and lumen. Scattered eosinophils were noted in the walls. Adjacent areas showed groups of small-caliber vessels lined by prominent endothelial cells and associated with a dense lymphoid infiltrate with eosinophils. No significant cytologic atypia was noted. Given the presence of the classic small vessel involvement, along with CD31 reactivity for the epithelioid cells in the large vessels, the findings are classified as EH involving large arteries, which is an uncommon subtype. There have only been a handful of such cases reported in the literature. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Phase Locking in the Oscillations Leading to Turbulence

The transition to turbulence often occurs through one or more hydrodynamic instabilities, each characterized by the onset of a qualitatively distinct type of time dependence as a dimensionless parameter is varied. These phenomena have been studied in several different hydrodynamic systems, including circular Couette flow [1,2] and Rayleigh-Benard convection[3–6]. The first appearance of time dependence often is a well-defined periodic oscillation. The mathematical techniques of nonlinear stability analysis have been used to predict the onset of oscillations, with some success [7]. However, these methods do not appear to be useful for predicting the onset or nature of more complex time-dependent phenomena, including nonperiodic motion.
Cubital Tunnel In Situ Release

2 Weeks The bulky compressive dressing is removed and edema control measures are initiated as necessary. Active and passive ROM exercises are initiated to the elbow, forearm, and wrist for 10 min each hour. Scar massage with lotion and manual desensitization exercises are initiated. Patient should be independent in eating, self-care, and dressing.
Microbial Water‐insoluble Aliphatic Polyesters (PHAs)

Introduction to PHAs Diversity of PHAs Biosynthesis of PHAs Short-chain-length PHAs Medium-chain-length PHAs Organization of Genes Required for PHA Biosynthesis Degradation of Poly(3HB) Intracellular Degradation of Poly(3HB) Properties of Native Poly(3HB) Granules Extracellular Degradation of PHA PHA Granule-associated Proteins Conversion of 3HB to Acetyl-CoA Regulation of PHA metabolism Keywords: polyhydroxyalkanoic (PHA); poly(3-hydroxybutyric acid) (poly(3HB)); PHA metabolism; PHA biosynthesis; gene organization; intracellular poly(3HB) degradation; extracellular PHA degradation; regulation of PHA metabolism; native poly(3HB) granules
A simple method for derivation of rate equations for enzyme-catalyzed reactions under the rapid equilibrium assumption or combined assumptions of equilibrium and steady state.

A method is described by which rate equations for enzymic reactions under the equilibrium assumptions may be derived by inspecting the reaction pathways without solving simultaneous equations in the conventional way. Also described is a simple graphic method which combines the above technique with King and Altman's method. By the latter method, rate equations may be derived with minimal effort for complicated enzymic mechanisms in which some steps are considerably faster than the rest so that the enzymic species connected by those rapid steps may be at a near equilibrium while the over-all reaction is in a steady state. Rate equations are derived, for the purpose of illustration, for the reversible single substrate-single modifier system, the partial equilibrium ping-pong bi-bi mechanism, the general mechanism for two-substrate system, and a complicated three-substrate mechanism.
HOUSEHOLD FLUID MILK EXPENDITURE PATTERNS IN THE SOUTH AND UNITED STATES

In recent years, significant changes have taken place in the food consumption patterns of American consumers. Evidence indicates that the ongoing changes in U.S. household food expenditure patterns occurred in response not only to sudden increases in food prices in the early 1970s and the recent salient inflationary period (Buse and Fleischner; Salathe), but also to demographic shifts, tastes, and preferences (LeBovit).
Constitutive and Induced Expression of Growth Factors in Normal and Chronic Phase Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia Ph1 Bone Marrow Stroma

Study of growth factor RNA levels in the stromal cells derived from the adherent layer of long-term bone marrow culture demonstrated constitutive expression of transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) and macrophage colony-stimulating factor. These cells did not express granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, granulocyte-monocyte colony-stimulating factor, interleukin (IL) 1α, IL-1β, IL-3, and IL-6. However, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor expression could be induced by recombinant human IL-1β; while IL-6 could be induced by both IL-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α. No differences could be detected between adherent layers established from normal and benign phase Ph1 chronic myelogenous leukemia bone marrow. The uninduced expression of TGF-β1, a potent hematopoietic cell growth inhibitor, suggests that stromal cells play an inherent role in regulating the proliferation of adjacent bone marrow hematopoietic progenitor cells. However, a defect in stromal TGF-β1 production cannot account for the profoundly expanded myeloid compartment in chronic phase chronic myelogenous leukemia. In contrast to the constitutive expression of TGF-β1 and macrophage colony-stimulating factor, hematopoietic growth factors are only expressed following a proper stimulation.
Complexity: an alternative paradigm for teamwork development

Purpose – This paper aims to suggest an understanding of teamwork from a complexity perspective.Design/methodology/approach – Complexity principles of nonlinearity, emergence, holism, and engagement are applied to conventional teamwork practice.Findings – The complexity principles offer ways of thinking about teamwork that inspire a more genuine collaboration, especially for decision‐making teams who must be able to alter conventionally linear, cybernetic thinking patterns.Originality/value – Thinking in complexity terms is an unfamiliar but necessary practice for decision‐making teams, enabling team members to think and act in collaborative ways, see the big picture, resist managing deviations that seems like errors, and develop interpersonal relationships that do so.
A Review on Fish Swimming and Bird/Insect Flight

This expository review is devoted to fish swimming and bird/insect flight. (i) The simple waving motion of an elongated flexible ribbon plate of constant width, immersed in a fluid at rest, propagating a wave distally down the plate to swim forward is first considered to provide a fundamental concept on energy conservation. It is generalized to include variations in body width and thickness, vortex shedding from appended dorsal, ventral and caudal fins to closely simulate fish swimming for which a nonlinear theory is presented for large-amplitude propulsion. (ii) For bird flight, the pioneering studies on oscillating rigid wings are briefed, followed by presenting a nonlinear unsteady theory for flexible wing with arbitrary variations in shape and trajectory with a comparative study with experiments. (iii) For insect flight, more recent advances are reviewed under aerodynamic theory and modeling, computational methods, and experiments, on forward and hovering flights with producing leading-edge vortex to give unsteady high lift. (iv) Prospects are explored on extracting intrinsic flow energy by fish and bird to gain thrust for propulsion. (v) The mechanical and biological principles are drawn together for unified studies on the energetics in deriving metabolic power for animal locomotion, leading to a surprising discovery that the hydrodynamic viscous drag on swimming fish is largely associated with laminar boundary layers, thus drawing valid and sound evidences for a resolution to the fish-swim paradox proclaimed by Gray (1936, 1968).
Analytic Wave Functions. II. Atoms with 1 s , 2 s , 2 p , 3 s , and 3 p Electrons

The variation program for the computation of atomic wave functions which has been developed and programed for IBM-704 electronic data processing machine is detailed. This calculation has been set up so as to be able to handle atoms having any combination of $1s$, $2s$, $2p$, $3s$, and $3p$ electrons. One example of the program is provided by a calculation of the wave functions for aluminum for all degrees of ionization. Another example is provided by a calculation of the fourteen configurations for oxygen having the electron distribution ${(1s)}^{2}{(2s)}^{2}{(2p)}^{3}(3p)$. Finally, the three $^{3}P$ wave functions thus obtained are combined by means of the configuration interaction.
Characterizations of continuous probability distributions occurring in physics and allied sciences by truncated moment

A probability distribution can be characterized through various methods. Before a particular probability distribution model is applied to fit the real-world data, it is necessary to confirm whether the given continuous probability distribution satisfies the underlying requirements by its characterization. In this paper, characterizations of some continuous probability distributions occurring in physics and allied sciences have been established. We have considered the normal, Laplace, Lorentz, logistic, Boltzmann, Rayleigh, log-normal, Maxwell, Fermi-Dirac, and Bose-Einstein distributions, and characterized them by applying a truncated moment method; that is, by taking a product of reverse hazard rate and another function of the truncated point. It is hoped that the proposed characterizations will be useful for researchers in various fields of physics and allied sciences.
Utilization of exogenous free fatty acids for the production of very low density lipoprotein triglyceride by livers of carbohydrate-fed rats

High carbohydrate diets enhance the hepatic output of very low density lipoprotein triglycerides. The fatty acids of these triglycerides could come from exogenous sources (i.e., diet or adipose tissue) or from de novo fatty acid synthesis in the liver. The role of exogenous free fatty acids was evaluated in rats fed Purina Chow or diets containing 10% fructose for up to 14 wk. In carbohydrate-fed rats, serum triglycerides were twice normal, and VLDL accounted for about 60% of the increases. Pre-beta-lipoprotein was increased and alpha- and beta-lipoprotein were decreased. Phospholipid and cholesterol levels were unchanged. Livers were perfused with glucose and free fatty acids. Perfusate free fatty acids rose from 180 to 1800 micro eq/liter as the infused acids increased from 0 to 992 micro eq/3 hr; simultaneously, net free fatty acid uptake rose from 13 micro eq/g/hr. More lauric and myristic acid appeared in the perfusate than was infused, suggesting the hepatic discharge of free fatty acids. Livers of fructose-fed rats secreted twice as much oleate-(14)C-labeled triglyceride as controls at all levels of free fatty acid uptake. The ratios of the specific activities of perfusate triglyceride to free oleate-(14)C were unaffected by diet and were about 0.6 and 1.0 at low and high triglyceride secretion rates, respectively. Thus, carbohydrate feeding did not result in altered uptakes of free fatty acids or preferential secretion of triglycerides containing endogenously synthesized fatty acid. Instead, the increased secretion of triglyceride was accomplished by enhanced formation of VLDL triglyceride from exogenous free fatty acids.
A new PCA-based method for data compression and enhancement of multi-frequency polarimetric SAR imagery

A new PCA-based method for an optimal representation of multi-frequency polarimetric SAR images is proposed. The method performs the simultaneous diagonalization of the signal and multiplicative noise covariance matrices via one orthogonal matrix. The covariance matrix of the multiplicative noise becomes an identity matrix, which implies that the variance of the noise in each new image is unity, and is uncorrelated between transformed images. The covariance matrix of the SAR images is transformed to a diagonal matrix whose diagonal elements are ordered in decreasing value, which means that the new images are uncorrelated and will be ordered by their variances (qualities). The theoretical analysis and the implementation procedure of the method are given. The method has been applied on real SAR images. The compression ability of the method is proved via a reconstitution process of the original SAR images from a small number of new images with a minimal loss of information.
Copper Transport Protein (Ctr1) Levels in Mice Are Tissue Specific and Dependent on Copper Status

Studies were conducted to determine distribution of the copper transporter, Ctr1, a transmembrane protein responsible for cellular copper uptake, in adult mice and in suckling mice nursed by either copper-adequate (Cu+) or copper-deficient (Cu-) dams. Western immunoblot analyses, using immunopurified antibody, detected monomeric (23 kDa) and oligomeric forms of Ctr1 in the membrane fraction of several mouse organs. Immunohistochemical analyses detected abundant Ctr1 protein in liver canaliculi; kidney cortex tubules; small intestinal enterocytes; the choroid plexus and capillaries of brain; intercalated disks of heart; mature spermatozoa; epithelium of mammary ducts; and the pigment epithelium, outer limiting membrane, and outer plexiform layer of the retina. Duodenal Ctr1 distribution was different in the adult compared with suckling mice; adult mice demonstrated strong intracellular staining of the enterocyte, whereas apical staining predominated in suckling mice. In Cu- mice at postnatal d 16 (P16), Ctr1 staining was augmented in kidney, duodenum, and choroid plexus, compared with Cu+ mice. Brain immunoblot data indicated that Ctr1 protein in membrane fractions of Cu- mice was 56% higher than Cu+ mice. Cu- mice had lower hemoglobin (56% of Cu+), and lower copper concentration (% of Cu+) in liver (15%), brain (26%), and kidney (65%). These results suggest that Ctr1 protein is expressed in multiple tissues and found in higher levels in selected organs after perinatal copper deficiency. Enhanced Ctr1 levels and redistribution might compensate in part for the decrease in copper supply. Mechanisms for the enhancement in Ctr1 staining remain to be established.
Organizing factors in the comprehension and recall of connected discourse.

This experiment is based on the theory that, in reading, one uses cues in order to activate an organizing system as an aid in reading the material. The variables introduced into the experiment include (1) the form of organization (meaningful, scrambled, and pseudo) and (2) the choice of material (descriptive, abstract, and technical). Having read a paragraph, subjects read a list of words including some from the paragraph and some not and were asked to check those words that they remembered as belonging to the paragraph. Accuracy is highest when subjects have been most successful in activating an appropriate organizing system.
Disruption of mechanisms that prevent rereplication triggers a DNA damage response

Eukaryotic DNA replication must occur only once per cell cycle. This control is enforced at the level of prereplicative complex (pre-RC) formation and origin firing. In the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the origin recognition complex (ORC), composed of six subunits (Orc1 to -6), is constitutively bound to defined DNA replication origin sequences (12). The ORC complex provides a platform for pre-RC assembly, which requires Cdc6- and Cdt1-mediated recruitment of the minichromosome maintenance proteins (MCM) Mcm2 to -7 (3, 7, 10, 58, 59). The assembled pre-RC licenses the origin for recruitment of Cdc45, DNA polymerase alpha, Sld2, and other factors required for firing (initiation) and elongation (reviewed in reference 5). Origin firing requires elevated B-type cyclin-Cdk1 activity (normally Clb5-Cdk1 and Clb6-Cdk1) and Cdc7-Dbf4 activity (13, 14, 19, 52, 53). Sld2 is an essential target of the Clb5/6-Cdk1 activity promoting replication initiation (35). Several mechanisms are known to contribute to the prevention of origin refiring, and all of them act by inhibiting pre-RC formation. In S. cerevisiae, the phosphorylation of Cdc6 by Cdk1 accelerates its SCFCdc4-mediated ubiquitination and degradation by the 26S proteasome (6, 15-17). The phosphorylation of MCMs by Cln-Cdk1 and Clb-Cdk1 kinases promotes their exit from the nucleus (31, 44). Phosphorylation of Orc2 and Orc6 by Clb-Cdk1 is thought to prevent efficient binding of other pre-RC subunits (45). Lastly, the binding of Clb5 to Orc6 via its RXL cyclin-binding motif contributes to the prevention of rereplication (68). Combining disruptions of these mechanisms allows extensive rereplication when cells are arrested with nocodazole (45, 68). In mammalian cells, rereplication can be induced by the overexpression of Cdc6, Cdt1, and cyclin A-Cdk2 (64). In mammalian cells and in Drosophila, geminin inhibits Cdt1 during late stages of the cell cycle, and the inhibition of geminin leads to rereplication (37, 40, 73). In the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe, the overexpression of Cdc18 (Cdc6) (42) or the disruption of an interaction between the B-type cyclin Cdc13-Cdc2 (69) kinase and Orc2 leads to successive rounds of replication without an intervening mitosis (endoreduplication). The existence of multiple mechanisms preventing rereplication suggests that any one mechanism is inefficient (leaky) and that the cell is highly intolerant to even very rare events leading to DNA rereplication. Rereplication could lead to DNA damage, to genomic instability, and to gene amplification, which are hallmarks of cancer. In mammalian cells, the activation of a p53-dependent pathway (64, 74) and the G2/M checkpoint (73) have been implicated in protecting cells against rereplication. For this study, we used the budding yeast system to characterize the response of cells to a compromise of rereplication controls.
Multifunctional sensor network for structural state sensing and structural health monitoring

In order to take full advantages of composites and enable future composite structures to operate at their physical limits rather than limits predetermined from computational design assumptions and safety factors, there is a need to develop an embeddable sensing system to allow a structure to "feel" and "think" its structural state. In this paper, the concept of multi-modal sensing capabilities using a network of multifunctional sensors integrated with a structure has been developed. Utilizing this revolutionary concept, future structures can be designed and manufactured to provide multiple modes of information that when synthesized together can provide capabilities for intelligent sensing, environmental adaptation and multi-functionality. To demonstrate the feasibility of multi-modal sensing capabilities with built-in sensor network, one single type of piezoelectric sensor was selected to perform the measurements of dynamic strain, temperature, damage detection and impact monitoring. The uniqueness of the sensing system includes (1) Flexible, multifunctional sensor networks for integration with any type of composite structural component, (2) Scalable sensor network for monitoring of a large composite structure, (3) Reduced number of connecting wires for sensors, (4) Hybrid diagnostics with multiple sensing capabilities, (5) Sensor network self-diagnostics and self-repair for damaged sensor system.
Effect of Sugar Molecules on the Viscosity of High Concentration Monoclonal Antibody Solutions

To assess the effect of sugar molecules on solution viscosity at high protein concentrations. A high throughput dynamic light scattering method was used to measure the viscosity of monoclonal antibody solutions. The effects of protein concentration, type of sugar molecule (trehalose, sucrose, sorbitol, glucose, fructose, xylose and galactose), temperature and ionic strength were evaluated. Differential scanning fluorimetry was used to reveal the effect of the same sugars on protein stability and to provide insight into the mechanism by which sugars increase viscosity. The addition of all seven types of sugar molecules studied result in a significant increase in viscosity of high concentration monoclonal antibody solutions. Similar effects of sugars were observed in the two mAbs examined; viscosity could be reduced by increasing the ionic strength or temperature. The effect by sugars was enhanced at higher protein concentrations. Disaccharides have a greater effect on the solution viscosity at high protein concentrations compared to monosaccharides. The effect may be explained by commonly accepted mechanisms of interactions between sugar and protein molecules in solution.
Identification of three new members of the phospholipid scramblase gene family.

Abstract Phospholipid (PL) scramblase is a 35 kDa protein that is thought to mediate Ca2+-induced bidirectional transbilayer movement of plasma membrane phospholipids in activated, injured, or apoptotic cells. We recently reported the molecular cloning of a PL scramblase of human (HuPLSCR1) and mouse origin, respectively. In the present study, the gene for HuPLSCR1 was cloned from a human genomic library. The gene size is 29.7 kb and includes nine exons. Analysis of the 5′ flanking genomic sequence with luciferase reporter constructs located the promoter to a region spanning from −95 to +60 of the first (untranslated) exon. Furthermore, we report the molecular cloning of three additional novel cDNAs encoding proteins with high homology to HuPLSCR1. The predicted open reading frames encode proteins with 59% (HuPLSCR2; 224 aa), 47% (HuPLSCR3; 295 aa) and 46% (HuPLSCR4; 329 aa) identity, respectively, to HuPLSCR1. All members of the PLSCR gene family conserve those residues contained in the segment of the PLSCR1 polypeptide that was previously shown to bind Ca2+. With the exception of HuPLSCR2, these proteins also each contain multiple PXXP motifs and a PPXY motif located near the N-terminus, implying the potential for interaction with SH3 or WW domain-containing proteins, respectively. HuPLSCR1, 2, and 4 were found to be closely clustered on chromosome 3 (3q23), whereas HuPLSCR3 is located on chromosome 17. Northern blots revealed that the expression of HuPLSCR2 is restricted to testis, whereas HuPLSCR1, 3 and 4 are expressed in most of the 16 tissues examined. Notable exceptions were HuPLSCR4, which was not detected in peripheral blood lymphocytes, and HuPLSCR1 and HuPLSCR3, which were not detected in brain.
SR calcium handling dysfunction, stress-response signaling pathways, and atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia. It is associated with a markedly increased risk of premature death due to embolic stroke and also complicates co-existing cardiovascular diseases such as heart failure. The prevalence of AF increases dramatically with age, and aging has been shown to be an independent risk of AF. Due to an aging population in the world, a growing body of AF patients are suffering a diminished quality of life and causing an associated economic burden. However, effective pharmacologic treatments and prevention strategies are lacking due to a poor understanding of the molecular and electrophysiologic mechanisms of AF in the failing and/or aged heart. Recent studies suggest that altered atrial calcium handling contributes to the onset and maintenance of AF. Here we review the role of stress-response kinases and calcium handling dysfunction in AF genesis in the aged and failing heart.
A practical turing machine representation

A tool is presented for research work on Turing machines and other abstract programming models. This tool is based on the use of the Recursive Function Algorithmic Language (Refal). A short background of this language is presented. Examples are given as to how this language may be useful for running simulations of Turing machines, and how it may be useful for the researcher into abstract machines.
Differential desensitization of μ- and δ- opioid receptors in selected neural pathways following chronic morphine treatment

Abstract 1. Morphine produces a plethora of pharmacological effects and its chronic administration induces several side-effects. The cellular mechanisms by which opiates induce these side-effects are not fully understood. Several studies suggest that regulation of adenylyl cyclase activity by opioids and other transmitters plays an important role in the control of neural function. 2. The aim of this study was to evaluate desensitization of mu- and delta- opioid receptors, defined as a reduced ability of opioid agonists to inhibit adenylyl cyclase activity, in four different brain structures known to be involved in opiate drug actions: caudate putamen, nucleus accumbens, thalamus and periaqueductal gray (PAG). Opiate regulation of adenylyl cyclase in these regions has been studied in control and morphine-dependent rats. 3. The chronic morphine treatment used in the present study (subcutaneous administration of 15.4 mg morphine/rat/day for 6 days via osmotic pump) induced significant physical dependence as indicated by naloxone-precipitated withdrawal symptoms. 4. Basal adenylyl cyclase in the four brain regions was not modified by this chronic morphine treatment. In the PAG and the thalamus, a desensitization of mu- and delta-opioid receptors was observed, characterized by a reduced ability of Tyr-D-Ala-Gly-(NMe)Phe-Gly-ol (DAMGO; mu), Tyr-D-Pen-Gly-Phe-D-Pen (DPDPE; delta) and [D-Ala2]-deltorphin-II (DT-II; delta) to inhibit adenylyl cyclase, activity following chronic morphine treatment. 5. The opioid receptor desensitization in PAG and thalamus appeared to be heterologous since the metabotropic glutamate receptor agonists, L-AP4 and glutamate, and the 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)1A receptor agonist, R(+)-8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin hydrobromide (8-OH-DPAT), also showed reduced inhibition of adenylyl cyclase activity following chronic morphine treatment. 6. In the nucleus accumbens and the caudate putamen, desensitization of delta-opioid receptor-mediated inhibition without modification of mu-opioid receptor-mediated inhibition was observed. An indirect mechanism probably involving dopaminergic systems is proposed to explain the desensitization of delta-mediated responses and the lack of mu-opioid receptor desensitization after chronic morphine treatment in caudate putamen and nucleus accumbens. 7. These results suggest that adaptive responses occurring during chronic morphine administration are not identical in all opiate-sensitive neural populations.
Ab initio study of high-order harmonic generation of H 2 + in intense laser fields: Time-dependent non-Hermitian Floquet approach

We present a time-dependent non-Hermitian Floquet approach for the precision three-dimensional nonperturbative calculations of high-order harmonic generation (HHG) rates of the hydrogen molecular ions subject to intense laser fields. The procedure involves an extension of the complex-scaling generalized pseudospectral method for nonuniform spatial discretization of the Hamiltonian and non-Hermitian time propagation of the time-evolution operator. The approach is designed for effective and high-precision nonperturbative treatment of high-order multiphoton processes in very intense and/or low-frequency laser fields, which are generally more difficult to treat using the conventional time-independent non-Hermitian Floquet matrix techniques. The method is applied to the multiphoton ionization (MPI) and HHG calculations of $\mathrm{H}_{2}{}^{+}$ for the wavelength $532\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{nm}$ at the equilibrium internuclear separation $(R=2.0\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{a.u.})$ and several laser intensities, as well as at the laser intensity $5\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{13}\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{W}∕{\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$ and various internuclear distances in the range between 3.0 and $17.5\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{a.u.}$ We found that both the MPI and HHG rates are strongly dependent on $R$. Further, at some internuclear separations $R$, the HHG productions are strongly enhanced and this phenomenon can be attributed to the resonantly enhanced MPI at these $R$. Finally, the enhancement of higher harmonics is found to take place mainly at larger $R$. Detailed study of the correlation between the behavior of MPI and HHG phenomena is presented.
Laser exposure effects on visual functions: measurement by electrophysiology: a selective review

Since laser exposure in humans is usually limited to accident cases precise definition of its effects on visual function is difficult to come by. In order to determine more precisely these effects and at what exposure levels they occur animal models are required. This immediately poses the problem of how to appropriately ask the animal what it can see. Under the assumption that the visual system of lower primates is sufficiently similar to our own electrophysiological techniques allow us to trace the production of neuroelectric currents in the visual nervous system and thus to make conclusions of function based on signal analysis. These techniques (pattern and luminance electroretinograms and visual evoked potentials) are useful especially in delineating short-term effects (seconds). Since these signals are " large scale " responses their specificity can only be set by precisely delineating the stimuli used to evoke them a variant of the GIGO (garbage in garbage out) rule. The results while obtainable in no other way are therefore limited. Long term effects (chronic alterations in visual function) can also be demonstrated with these techniques. This paper will review both the techniques and the questions to which these techniques have been applied for laser exposure energies ranging from long-term low-level exposures to acute lesion-level exposures in the primate model. 2.© (1990) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Polarization sensitive beam bending using a spatially variant photonic crystal

A spatially-variant photonic crystal (SVPC) that can control the spatial propagation of electromagnetic waves in three dimensions with high polarization sensitivity was fabricated and characterized. The geometric attributes of the SVPC lattice were spatially varied to make use of the directional phenomena of self-collimation to tightly bend an unguided beam coherently through a 90 degree angle. Both the lattice spacing and the fill factor of the SVPC were maintained to be nearly constant throughout the structure. A finite-difference frequency-domain computational method confirms that the SVPC can self-collimate and bend light without significant diffuse scatter caused by the bend. The SVPC was fabricated using multi-photon direct laser writing in the photo-polymer SU-8. Mid-infrared light having a vacuum wavelength of λ0 = 2.94 μm was used to experimentally characterize the SVPCs by scanning the sides of the structure with optical fibers and measuring the intensity of light emanating from each face. Results show that the SVPC is capable of directing power flow of one polarization through a 90-degree turn, confirming the self-collimating and polarization selective light-guiding properties of the structures.
Calcium-Stimulated Adenylyl Cyclase Activity Is Critical for Hippocampus-Dependent Long-Term Memory and Late Phase LTP

Abstract It is hypothesized that Ca 2+ stimulation of calmodulin (CaM)–activated adenylyl cyclases (AC1 or AC8) generates cAMP signals critical for late phase LTP (L-LTP) and long-term memory (LTM). However, mice lacking either AC1 or AC8 exhibit normal L-LTP and LTM. Here, we report that mice lacking both enzymes (DKO) do not exhibit L-LTP or LTM. To determine if these defects are due to a loss of cAMP increases in the hippocampus, DKO mice were unilaterally cannulated to deliver forskolin. Administration of forskolin to area CA1 before training restored normal LTM. We conclude that Ca 2+ -stimulated adenylyl cyclase activity is essential for L-LTP and LTM and that AC1 or AC8 can produce the necessary cAMP signal.
The nature of the middle phase in three-phase micellar systems at phase behavior optimal salinity

Abstract Analysis of the middle phase of two heptane-surfactant-2-phenoxyethanol (cosurfactant)-brine systems at the point of phase behavior optimal salinity shows that surfactant and cosurfactant concentration gradients and a density gradient develop upon standing. Surfactant and cosurfactant concentrations and density all increase with depth below the upper (heptane/middle phase) interface. The nonhomogeneity depends upon the presence of condensed phases of different nature at both interfaces of the middle phase, as shown by its disappearance when the heptane phase is removed. The phenomenon is reversible, as shown by the reappearance of the gradients upon centrifugation of the middle phase, in the absence of heptane and brine phases, at sufficiently high speed.
Correlations of the physicochemical parameters of azaindoles with their reactions

Using the AM1 semiempirical quantum method the enthalpies of formation, ionization energies, electron affinities, energy differences between highest occupied and lowest unoccupied orbitals, atomic charges, bond orders, and dipole moments have been calculated for 4-, 5-, 6-, and 7-azaindoles. A correlation has been built up between the calculated physicochemical parameters and the Hammett para-substituent and inductive constants. The 1H to 7H proton transfer in 7-azaindole has been quantitatively described.
Dual wavelength-swept fibre ring laser for wavelength-dependent pump-probe measurements

A dual wavelength-swept laser is experimentally demonstrated using two Fabry-Perot tunable filters in a single fibre ring cavity. The laser emits two wavelengths that can be swept simulaneously or one at a time. The source can be used to conduct wavelength dependent pump-probe experiments and eliminates the need for multiple lasers.
Habitat Destruction and Competitive Coexistence in Spatially Explicit Models with Local Interactions

Abstract We investigate the competition–colonization trade-off in a two-species competition model in various heterogeneous environments. The competitiveness of species is hierarchically ordered and the dynamics of the model are described by spatially local interactions of individuals. The size of the local neighborhood may depend on the species. The habitat consists of inhabitable and permanently destroyed sites. It was previously observed (Nee & May, 1992; Tilman et al ., 1994, 1997) that destruction of habitat may aid the inferior species and cause the superior species to go extinct. These conclusions were based on an n -species model in which the spatial arrangement of destroyed sites was ignored. We examine the effects of different spatial arrangements of destroyed sites on survival and coexistence of the two species. We conclude that the spatial arrangement plays an important role and can influence the outcome qualitatively. The key quantity for predicting the outcome of habitat destruction on species survival is the relationship between the mean dispersal distance and the mean distance between inhabitable and destroyed sites. We contrast the hierarchical model with a version of the Lotka–Volterra model of interspecific competition and show that habitat destruction can alter the dominance relationship between species by reducing intraspecific competition.
Vitamin D and lung cancer

An intriguing report on improved disease-free survival in patients undergoing surgery for lung cancer in the summer versus winter months piqued my interest as a thoracic oncologist several years ag...
Compilation of the Pascal case statement

Pascal case statements can be compiled using a variety of methods, including comparison trees and branch tables. The scheme discussed here combines the two techniques to allow comparison trees with entries that are branch tables. The use of a combination of the two techniques is shown to adapt well to certain instances of case statements. Extensions to the standard case statement also require such a scheme to obtain an efficient implementation.
Perceived Stress and Sense of Belonging in Doctor of Nursing Practice Students

There is little research among doctor of nursing practice (DNP) students, a fast-growing population of nurses engaged in doctoral study. In this descriptive correlational study, levels of perceived stress, sense of belonging, and the relationship between these variables were examined. The sample included 89 female, predominantly White, post-master's DNP students from a Midwest university. A statistically significant inverse relationship ( r = −.49, P
Postmetamorphic changes in auditory sensitivity of the bullfrog midbrain

During metamorphosis, the lateral line system of ranid frogs (Rana catesbeiana) degenerates and an auditory system sensitive to airborne sounds develops. We examined the onset of function and developmental changes in the central auditory system by recording multi-unit activity from the principal nucleus of the torus semicircularis (TSp) of bullfrogs at different postmetamorphic stages in response to tympanically-presented auditory stimuli. No responses were recorded to stimuli of up to 95 dB SPL from latemetamorphic tadpoles, but auditory responses were recorded within 24 hours of completion of metamorphosis. Audiograms from froglets (SVL < 5.5 cm) were relatively flat in shape with high thresholds, and showed a decrease in most sensitive frequency (MSF) from about 2500 Hz to about 1500 Hz throughout the first 7–10 days after completion of metamorphosis. Audiograms from frogs larger than 5.5 cm showed continuous downward shifts in MSF and thresholds, and increases in sharpness around MSF until reaching adult-like values. Spontaneous activity in the TSp increased throughout postmetamorphic development. The torus increased in volume by approximately 50% throughout development and displayed changes in cell density and nuclear organization. These observations suggest that the onset of sensitivity to tympanically presented airborne sounds is limited by peripheral, rather than central, auditory maturation.
Phytochrome Effects in the Nyctinastic Leaf Movements of Albizzia julibrissin and Some Other Legumes.

Participation of phytochrome is evident in the nyctinastic response of leaves of Albizzia julibrissin (silk-tree), Albizzia lophantha, Leucaena glauca, Poinciana gilliesi and Calliandra inequilatera; closure of excised pairs of pinnules upon darkening is rapid following red illumination and slow following far-red. Under good conditions the difference is obvious within 10 minutes. These observations confirm a report by Fondeville, Borthwick, and Hendricks on the sensitive plant, Mimosa pudica , but indicate that the effect bears no necessary relationship to the anomalous sensitivity of Mimosa. In A. julibrissin , phytochrome control is marked in experiments conducted early in the daily 12-hour light period and appears absent, or nearly so, toward the end of the light period, perhaps due to interaction with an endogenous circadian rhythm. Effects of leaf maturity and of the position of a pinnule-pair within a leaf are also evident. These results are not easily reconciled with hypotheses of phytochrome action through gene activation and nucleic acid synthesis, but are consistent with hypotheses based on permeability changes and membrane properties. The magnitude and reproducibility of the response in A. julibrissin suggest its use as a laboratory exercise; this and related systems should prove valuable for eventual identification of the mechanism of phytochrome action.
Temperature-dependence in the susceptibility of Al3V☆

Abstract The susceptibility of Al 3 V has been measured between 0.4 and 293°K and has been found to satisfy a Curie-Weiss expression with a critical temperature of ≈ -65°K and an effective moment per vanadium ion of ≈ 0.32. No magnetic ordering appears to take place. These results are compared with those on Au-V alloys and Au 4 V.
A generalization of Temple's quotient for Computing Bounds on Eigenvalues

By means of a formal generalization of Temple's quotient a simple numerical procedure is developed for finding lower bounds of eigenvalues for self-adjoint equations.
Immunohistochemistry of a human type I pneumocyte‐associated protein in lung

A mouse monoclonal antibody to a human lung lavage protein was raised using proteins, with the potential ability to bind surfactant, as the immunogen. The proteins were isolated from cadaver lung lavage. The antibody was tested for its reactivity with lung and other organs. It reacted with type I pneumocytes and some of the nonciliated cells in the surface epithelium of distal bronchioles. Staining was also seen in the cells surrounding the glandular structures, superficial keratinocytes of the skin, endothelium, and nerve sheath cells. With the exception of bronchiolar cells, the stained cells have a squamous morphology, and this protein may serve as a marker or determinant of this characteristic of cells. In pathologic lungs some of the cells in air spaces with "bronchiolarization" of the epithelium exhibited staining for the protein. It could not be ascertained whether the stained cuboidal cells were reactive type II pneumocytes or distal bronchiolar cells. The intraalveolar material in pulmonary alveolar proteinosis did not show remarkable staining for the protein. Even though the protein is not unique to type I pneumocytes, it may serve as a marker for these cells in the study of their development and biology.
Integrating cultural competency in rehabilitation curricula in the new millennium: keeping it simple.

Pre-service rehabilitation education programmes in the United States still prepare future professionals in cultural competency primarily through one required course in multicultural counselling, th...
Laparoscopically directed fine needle aspiration for the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma: a safe and accurate technique

Although ultrasonography and computerized tomography have been useful in the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma, the extent of metastases and the presence of cirrhosis are not identified by these techniques before surgery. We studied 27 cases of presumptive hepatocellular carcinoma by means of laparoscopy and fine needle aspiration. Fine needle aspirates provided positive diagnoses of hepatocellular carcinoma in all patients. Laparoscopy compliments imaging studies and allows selection of patients amenable to hepatic resection.