cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Spatial variation in trophic ecology of small mammals in wetlands: support for hydrological drivers

Food webs composed of similar consumers can vary based on nutrient input, habitat structure, and other factors. For wetland-associated species, fluctuating water levels can potentially affect habitat quality, which in turn can affect trophic diversity. Our objective was to determine spatiotemporal variation in the trophic structure of small mammals at two wetland complexes (floodplain and mineland) in southern Illinois. We live-trapped small mammals during 2011–2013 at nine wetland patches on the Mississippi River floodplain and 14 patches at a reclaimed mineland. We collected hair samples from six species of small mammals (n = 428) at these wetland complexes. We analyzed C and N stable isotopes for three mammal taxa (Oryzomys palustris, Peromyscus spp., Microtus ochrogaster) to compare diet between species, sites, and times. Food sources (vegetation and invertebrates) were collected to form the isotopic baseline. We found no seasonal difference in diet composition, but isotopic values varied between sites and species. At the floodplain site, both δ15N and δ13C isotopic values for Oryzomys were more variable and completely enclosed that of Peromyscus. At the mining site, Peromyscus were at a lower trophic level (δ15N) and had a separate and less variable δ13C values from Oryzomys. Microtus was at a lower trophic position than the other two species at both sites. These results point to reduced niche overlap between Oryzomys and Peromyscus at the mining site, perhaps due to lower habitat quality and limited suitable resources. At the floodplain site, we conclude that more dynamic hydrology gave rise to higher biodiversity and more resources allowing small mammals to use similar food items.
Abstract 333: Histone Deacetylase 5 Interacts With and Regulates Kruppel-like Factor 2 (KLF2) Transcriptional Activation and its Downstream Target eNOS Gene Expression

Vascular endothelial dysfunction and inflammation are hallmarks of atherosclerosis. It is important to understand the detailed mechanisms for regulation of endothelial function and inflammation. Emerging evidence suggests that the transcription factor Kruppel-like Factor 2 (KLF2) is a key mediator of the anti-inflammatory and anti-thrombotic properties of the endothelium. KLF2 also mediates laminar blood flow-dependent endothelial atheroprotective functions. Despite intense investigation of KLF2 function, little is known of the molecular mechanisms for regulation of KLF2 transcriptional activation. Histone deacetylase 5 (HDAC5) HDAC5 is a transcriptional repressor, and we have previously shown that HDAC5 inhibits flow-mediated endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) gene expression (Wang & Jin, Blood 2010). Here, we demonstrate that HDAC5 physically associates with KLF2 and negatively regulates KLF2 transcriptional activation. Using co-transfected cell line and GST-fusion protein pull-down assays, we found that HDAC5 directly interacts with KLF2. We also detected the association of endogenous HDAC5 and KFL2 in endothelial cells. To understand the nature of this interaction, we further mapped the HDAC5 and KLF2 interaction domains. Using luciferase reporter assay, we observed that HDAC5, through association with KLF2, repressed KLF2 transcriptional activation. Moreover, HDAC5 inhibited KLF2-dependent eNOS promoter activity and eNOS expression in endothelial cells, which reveals epigenetic mechanism whereby flow mediates eNOS expression through stimulating nuclear export of HDAC5. Collectively, these results define a novel transcriptional pathway that regulates KLF2-dependent gene expression and suggest a new molecular target to prevent vascular inflammation and endothelial dysfunction associated with cardiovascular disease.
Template-based human supervised robot task programming

Motions of a robot interacting with its environment can be described by a set of constraints. This paper introduces an approach, called motion template, which can quickly program and compose the constraints for the motion planner to generate the trajectory. Two types of motion templates, grasp and turn, are specifically described to explain the details of the technique. The reusability and shareability properties of the motion template are demonstrated using a variety of the motion planning applications across different robot platforms. A motion template framework is used to implement the motion template with the trajectory optimization.
A Movement system impairment approach to evaluation and treatment of a person with lumbar radiculopathy: A case report

ABSTRACTBackground and Purpose: There are several systems of classification and treatment of patients with low back pain (LBP) based on assessment of the effect of lumbar postures and movements on ...
Second-Opinion Review of Breast Imaging at a Cancer Center: Is It Worthwhile?

OBJECTIVE. Second-opinion review of breast imaging studies can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive process. The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether reinterpretation of studies obtained at institutions outside a cancer center influences clinical management, specifically by revealing additional cancer and preventing unnecessary biopsy. MATERIALS AND METHODS. A review was conducted of breast imaging studies of 200 patients who underwent ultrasound and MRI at community facilities and had the images submitted for second opinions at a cancer center between January and April 2014. Each case was evaluated for concordance between the original report and the second-opinion interpretation. Second-opinion review resulting in the recommendation and performance of new biopsies was further subdivided into benign, high-risk, and malignant categories based on the histopathologic results obtained at the cancer center. RESULTS. Second-opinion review of the 200 cases showed a change in interpretation i...
Lymph node yield and survival in gastric carcinoma.

4012 Background: Although the extent of lymph node (LN) dissection in gastric cancer remains controversial, it is recommended that at least15 LN be examined for accurate staging. Existing data suggest that many gastrectomies performed in the US do not achieve this benchmark. This study examines trends in LN yield over time in patients undergoing curative surgery for gastric cancer and the relationship between LN yield and survival. Methods: Under IRB waiver, all National Cancer Database patients who underwent total, distal or proximal gastrectomy for gastric cancer from 1998-2011 were examined. Patients with metastatic disease or for whom treatment was indicated to be palliative were excluded from this study. Wilcoxan rank-sum test was used to compare LN yield. Cox proportional hazards models were used to compare overall survival. Results: 73,674 patients met inclusion criteria. 7,938 (10.8%) had neoadjuvant therapy. Patients who received neoadjuvant therapy had higher median LN yield than patients who di...
A Note on Transient Fuel Behavior Maps for Oxide Nuclear Reactor Fuel

Fuel behavior maps have been constructed based on an analysis developed previously by the author. The maps enable one to see at a glance fuel behavior in transient parameter space as predicted by t...
Abstract 130: Secretion of Angiogenic and Anti-apoptotic Factors Accompanies Mesenchymal Stem Cell-mediated Enhancement of Contractile Function in Engineered Cardiac Tissues

Previous studies using three-dimensional engineered cardiac tissues (ECT) demonstrated beneficial effects of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) on contractile function, recapitulating findings in animal studies and in clinical trials. But the mechanisms by which MSC effect this functional enhancement remain unclear. This study tested the hypothesis that MSC-mediated enhancement of ECT function involves paracrine signaling, independent of direct cell-cell interaction with cardiomyocytes (CM). To create ECT, CM were isolated from neonatal rat ventricles, mixed with 2.0 mg/ml bovine type I collagen and 0.9 mg/ml Matrigel, and pipetted into a custom elastomeric mold with integrated force sensing end-posts. Two types of ECT were created: one containing 1.5 million CM (“CM-only”) and the other containing 1.5 million CM supplemented with 150,000 MSC (“MSC-CM hybrid”). Contractile function of CM-only ECT was then assessed during 2-Hz pacing either in the presence or absence of hybrid tissues sharing the same media. Media surrounding the tissues was also collected and analyzed via protein microarray (RayBiotech) combined with Ingenuity Pathway Analysis software. CM-only ECT cultured for 5 days showed aligned and compacted structure with a cross-sectional area of 0.39 ± 0.03 mm 2 and a twitch force of 4.7 ± 0.7 N (mean ± SD; n = 6). In CM-only tissues co-cultured for 5 days in shared media alongside hybrid tissues, cross-sectional area was unchanged (0.42 ± 0.02 mm 2 , p = 0.17, n=3), but twitch force increased two-fold to 9.8 ± 6.5 N (p = 0.08). Threshold voltage for electrical pacing of CM-only ECT also decreased from 0.54 ± 0.12 V/mm to 0.39 ± 0.07 V/mm when co-cultured with hybrid ECT (p = 0.097). Protein microarray analysis of the shared co-culture conditioned media showed enrichment (relative to CM-only conditioned media) of the angiogenic factors VEGF (1240x) and IL-1 (8.6x) as well as the cardiac anti-apoptotic/pro-survival factors TNF (194x), bFGF (55x), and bNGF (14.9x). In conclusion, these findings support paracrine signaling, independent of direct cell-cell contact, as one mechanism of MSC-mediated enhancement of CM function in rat ECT. Identification and isolation of defined cardiotropic factors may lead to novel molecular therapies for cardiac repair.
Swallowing outcomes after cricopharyngeal myotomy: A systematic review

Background No practice guidelines have been established for swallowing outcomes after cricopharyngeal myotomy (CPM). The purpose of this systematic review was to summarize evidence for swallowing outcomes in patients undergoing CPM to treat symptomatic cricopharyngeal dysfunction, in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol. Methods Swallowing outcomes examined included penetration/aspiration ratings, manometric measures, patient-rated dysphagia scales, clinician-rated dysphagia scales, diet level, and weight. Results Three databases were queried for studies published between January 1995 and July 2015, resulting in a total of 122 full-text eligible records. Studies were screened and reviewed, culminating in 10 studies meeting inclusion criteria. Critical appraisal of study design, swallowing outcomes measures, and statistical analysis were summarized. Conclusion This systematic review revealed insufficient evidence for guiding clinical practice. Future investigations should use validated patient-rated and clinician-rated instruments as well as detailed high-resolution manometry measures to optimally capture postoperative swallowing outcomes.
How peacebuilders communicate: public discourse, performance and the enactment of UNTAC’s mandate in Cambodia

AbstractThis article proposes a framework for the empirical study of peacebuilders’ communication practices. It argues that in the current debate over the potential contribution of communication to...
Monitoring Red Imported Fire Ant (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) Foraging Behavior and Impact on Foliage-Dwelling Arthropods on Soybean Produced Under Three Ant Suppression Regimes

The red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta Buren, has been reported to contribute to the biological control of key arthropod pests in soybean, Glycine max (L.) Merrill, and other crops. Solenopsis invicta also has been implicated as a major disrupter of biological control and a direct crop pest associated with reduced yields. In 2000 and 2001, fire ant foraging, survival of sentinel lepidopteran eggs and pupae, seasonal abundance of common foliage-dwelling soybean arthropods, and crop yield were assessed under three different fire ant suppression treatments at two test sites in Tift Co., GA. The treatments included an untreated control, hydramethylnon ant bait, and hydramethylnon bait in combination with the broad spectrum insecticide chlorpyriphos. Fire ant foraging was reduced in the chemically-treated plots in comparison to the control, based on fire ant numbers on hot dog baits after a 1-h field exposure in the early morning. Survival of soybean looper, Pseudoplusia includens Walker, eggs in 2000 a...
Evaluating multi-class multiple-instance learning for image categorization

Automatic image categorization is a challenging computer vision problem, to which Multiple-instance Learning (MIL) has emerged as a promising approach. Typical current MIL schemes rely on binary one-versus-all classification, even for inherently multi-class problems. There are a few drawbacks with binary MIL when applied to a multi-class classification problem. This paper describes Multi-class Multiple-Instance Learning (McMIL). to image categorization that bypasses the necessity of constructing a series of binary classifiers. We analyze McMIL in depth to show why it is advantageous over binary MIL when strong target concept overlaps exist among the classes. We systematically valuate McMIL using two challenging image databases, and compare it with state-of-the-art binary MIL approaches. The McMIL achieves competitive classification accuracy, robustness to labeling noise, and effectiveness in capturing the target concepts using smaller amount of training data. We show that the learned target concepts from McMIL conform to human interpretation of the images.
On the minimum intensity of the Na D2-5890 Å line in sunspot umbra

The line-to-continuum intensity ratio for the center of the Na D2 absorption line in a spot of area 20 × 10−6 in the Rome Group 5847 was found to be 0.033±0.05 on 6–7/7/70 by two methods.
A vulnerability in the UMTS and LTE authentication and key agreement protocols

We report on a deficiency in the specifications of the Authentication and Key Agreement (AKA) protocols of the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) and Long-Term Evolution (LTE) as well as the specification of the GSM Subscriber Identity Authentication protocol, which are all maintained by the 3rd Generation Partnership Program (3GPP), an international consortium of telecommunications standards bodies. The flaw, although found using the computational prover CryptoVerif, is of symbolic nature and could be exploited by both an outside and an inside attacker in order to violate entity authentication properties. An inside attacker may impersonate an honest user during a run of the protocol and apply the session key to use subsequent wireless services on behalf of the honest user.
A review on structural elucidation of metabolites of environmental steroid hormones via liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry

Abstract This review covers liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) strategies for structural elucidation of degradation and transformation products of environmental steroid hormones due to their estrogenic and/or androgenic effects on environmental living life. We focus on identification fundamentals of unknown metabolites rather than on target analysis. We discuss LC-MS capacities and overall MS-based steps for structural elucidation of unknown metabolites. Also summarized in the review are the fragmentation reactions and fragmentation pathways of protonated and deprotonated molecules of unknown compounds. We pay particular attention to versatile orthogonal techniques (e.g., isotopic labeling, hydrogen/deuterium exchange and model compound utilization) associated with MS and intelligent spectral interpretation strategies used in literature for structural elucidation of steroid hormone metabolites. We provide up-to-date applications of LC-MS on structural elucidation of biotic and abiotic transformation products of steroid hormones in environmental samples. Most of what is discussed in this review also applies to other emerging environmental contaminants.
CuI‐Mediated Bromoalkynylation and Hydroalkynylation Reactions of Unsymmetrical Benzynes: Complementary Modes of Addition

Benzynes formed by heating a suitable triyne (or tetrayne) substrate are shown to react with in situ generated alkynyl copper species. The latter are compatible with the polyyne substrates and two types of chemistries have been achieved: (i) 1-bromo-1-alkynes efficiently undergo net bromoalkynylation of the (unsymmetrical) benzynes and (ii) in situ generated alkynylcopper species give rise to hydroalkynylation products. The regiochemical preferences of these two modes of reaction are complementary to one another with respect to the position of alkynyl substituent in the final products.
Mental Health Issues and Substance Use in the United States: Pulling the Power Levers.

BACKGROUND: Promising treatment avenues have been developed and studied that align well with the skills of psychiatric-mental health (PMH) nurses. The treatments are relationship-driven, nimble and...
Investigation of the photoinduced axial ligation process in the excited state of nickel(II) phthalocyanine

Abstract Photoinduced axial ligation process in the excited state of nickel(II) octabutoxyphthalocyanine (NiPcOBu8) in pyridine solvent has been investigated by ultrafast optical transient absorption and X-ray transient absorption spectroscopies. Although Ni phthalocyanine complexes have been reported to have no tendency to form six-coordinate structure, the (dz2,dx2-y2) state of NiPcOBu8 generated by photoexcitation of Q-band was discovered to axially ligate with the pyridine molecule very rapidly, on a timescale of ˜100 ps. Although the presence of an excited unligated (d,d) state cannot be confirmed due to the time resolution limit of the synchrotron X-ray probe pulse with ˜80 ps FWHM, the biexponential kinetics of the ground state recovery detected by the 1s → 4pz feature suggests the decay of the unligated (d,d) species with an 82 ps time constant, while that of the ligated NiPcOBu8 species is 3–5 ns. The photoinduced ligation dynamics of NiPcOBu8 is vastly different compared to that of Ni porphyrin complexes. This study provides a structural basis on the ligation chemistry in both the ground and excited states of nickel complexes based on their electronic and nuclear structures.
Continuous Quality Improvement Measured With Time-Driven Activity-Based Costing in an Outpatient Cancer Surgery Center

PURPOSE:As health care costs rise, continuous quality improvement and increased efficiency are crucial to reduce costs while providing high-quality care. Time-driven activity-based costing (TDABC) can help identify inefficiencies in processes of cancer care delivery. This study measured the process performance of Port-a-Cath placement in an outpatient cancer surgery center by using TDABC to evaluate patient care process.METHODS:Data were collected from the Anesthesia Information Management System database and OneConnect electronic health record (EHR) for Port-a-Cath cases performed throughout four phases: preintervention (phase I), postintervention, stabilization, and pre–new EHR (phases II and III), and post–new EHR (phase IV). TDABC methods were used to map and calculate process times and costs.RESULTS:Comparing all phases, as measured with TDABC methodology, a decrease in post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) length of stay (LOS) was identified (83 minutes v 67 minutes; P < .05). The decrease in PACU LOS co...
Experimental Study of Nonlinear Resonances and Anti-Resonances in a Forced, Ordered Granular Chain

We experimentally study a one-dimensional uncompressed granular chain composed of a finite number of identical spherical elastic beads with Hertzian interactions. The chain is harmonically excited by an amplitude- and frequency-dependent boundary drive at its left end and has a fixed boundary at its right end. Such ordered granular media represent an interesting new class of nonlinear acoustic metamaterials, since they exhibit essentially nonlinear acoustics and have been designated as “sonic vacua” due to the fact that their corresponding speed of sound (as defined in classical acoustics) is zero. This paves the way for essentially nonlinear and energy-dependent acoustics with no counterparts in linear theory. We experimentally detect time-periodic, strongly nonlinear resonances whereby the particles (beads) of the granular chain respond at integer multiples of the excitation period, and which correspond to local peaks of the maximum transmitted force at the chain’s right, fixed end. In between these resonances we detect a local minimum of the maximum transmitted forces corresponding to an anti-resonance in the stationary-state dynamics. The experimental results of this work confirm previous theoretical predictions, and verify the existence of strongly nonlinear resonance responses in a system with a complete absence of any linear spectrum; as such, the experimentally detected nonlinear resonance spectrum is passively tunable with energy and sensitive to dissipative effects such as internal structural damping in the beads, and friction or plasticity effects. We compare the experimental results with direct numerical simulations of the granular network and deduce satisfactory agreement.
Subpopulations of normal peripheral blood and bone marrow cells express a functional multidrug resistant phenotype [see comments]

The multidrug-resistance gene, MDR1 is expressed in many normal tissues, but little is known about its expression in normal hematopoietic cells. Using the monoclonal antibody C219 and flow cytometric analysis, P-glycoprotein (P-gp) was found to be expressed in all peripheral blood (PB) subpopulations (CD4, CD8, CD14, CD19, CD56) except granulocytes. To specifically determine MDR1 gene expression, these PB subpopulations were isolated by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) and analyzed for MDR1 mRNA by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). All subsets were positive by PCR, but only minimal MDR1 mRNA was detected in monocytes and granulocytes. Significant efflux of Rhodamine- 123 (Rh-123), a measure of P-gp function, was detected in CD4+, CD8+, CD14+, CD19+, and CD56+ cells but not in granulocytes. Next, PCR- analysis was performed on FACS-sorted bone marrow (BM) cells to assess MDR1 expression in different maturational stages. Precursors (CD34+), early and late myeloid cells (CD33+/CD34+, CD33+/CD34-) as well as lymphocytes of the B-cell lineage (CD19+/CD10+, CD19+/CD10-) expressed the MDR1 gene. BM monocytic cells (CD33++/CD34-) were negative, and a very weak signal was detected in erythroid cells (glycophorin A+). Significant Rh-123 efflux was found in CD34+, CD10+, CD33+, and CD33++ BM cells, but not in glycophorin A+ cells. We conclude that PB and BM lymphocytes, PB monocytes, BM progenitors, and immature myeloid cells, but not late BM monocytes, erythroid cells, and PB granulocytes, express MDR1 mRNA and a functional P-gp. These results have to be taken into account when MDR1 expression is determined in tumor samples containing normal blood cells.
A Platform for Tracking Teacher-Student Interaction

The value and effectiveness of office hours held by faculty and other staff members involved in student mentoring (e.g., advisors and tutors) has been investigated by several studies that have demonstrated that One-On-One (1:1) interaction, whether in person or via remote communication tools, has significant impact on academic success. Despite teacher-student meetings are a crucial component of the learning experience, very little is known about office hours practices beyond the requirements of faculty and staff handbooks: attendance, utilization, and outcome are seldom reported or sparsely tracked, mostly on an individual basis, and without standards.
On the implied weights of linear regression for causal inference

In this paper, we derive and analyze the implied weights of linear regression methods for causal inference. We obtain new closed-form, finite-sample expressions of the weights for various types of estimators based on multivariate linear regression models. In finite samples, we show that the implied weights have minimum variance, exactly balance the means of the covariates (or transformations thereof) included in the model, and produce estimators that may not be sample bounded. Furthermore, depending on the specification of the regression model, we show that the implied weights may distort the structure of the sample in such a way that the resulting estimator is biased for the average treatment effect for a given target population. In large samples, we demonstrate that, under certain functional form assumptions, the implied weights are consistent estimators of the true inverse probability weights. We examine doubly robust properties of regression estimators from the perspective of their implied weights. We also derive and analyze the implied weights of weighted least squares regression. The equivalence between minimizing regression residuals and optimizing for certain weights allows us to bridge ideas from the regression modeling and causal inference literatures. As a result, we propose a set of regression diagnostics for causal inference. We discuss the connection of the implied weights to existing matching and weighting approaches. As special cases, we analyze the implied weights in common settings such as multi-valued treatments, regression after matching, and two-stage least squares regression with instrumental variables.
Enoxaparin Reduces Catheter Associated Venous Thrombosis Following Infant Cardiac Surgery.

Abstract Background Central venous catheter (CVC) related venous thrombosis (VT) following pediatric cardiac surgery increases the morbidity and mortality. Although VT prevention using low dose anticoagulation has proven ineffective, anticoagulation using high dose enoxaparin to achieve a therapeutic anti-xa level has not been studied. We hypothesized that high dose enoxaparin would reduce VT after pediatric cardiac surgery. Methods Enoxaparin was administered to infants Results From 2012-2019, 157 infants were treated with enoxaparin. Infants were divided into two groups: 1) SubTherapeutic (SubTher) (N = 51) – therapeutic anti-xa level (0.5-1.0 IU/mL) was not achieved, 2) Therapeutic (Ther) (N = 106) - therapeutic anti-xa level was achieved. Baseline demographics demonstrated a lower age at operation within the Ther group. The SubTher group had a higher VT rate/1,000 CVC days (8.2) compared to the Ther group (2.6; p=0.005). Re-exploration for bleeding was similar between groups. The number of post-operative RBC transfusions/1,000 CVC days was significantly greater in the SubTher group (109.4 vs. 81.6; p=0.008). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that higher median anti-xa levels reduced the risk of VT (OR 0.02, CI: 0.001, 0.63; p=0.02). Conclusions This data suggests that enoxaparin treatment resulting in a therapeutic anti-xa level reduces post-operative CVC associated VT without increasing bleeding complications.
When the medium is war: Marshall McLuhan, media, and militarisation

This essay explores Marshall McLuhan’s argument in War and Peace in the Global Village that ‘the first television war’ of Vietnam was staged in a new technological ‘medium’ that reduced viewers’ ca...
Predictably Engineering the Viscoelastic Behavior of Dynamic Hydrogels via Correlation with Molecular Parameters

Rational design of dynamic hydrogels with desirable viscoelastic behaviors relies on an in-depth understanding of the principles correlating molecular parameters and macroscopic properties. To quantitatively elucidate such principles, a series of dynamic covalent hydrogels crosslinked via hydrazone bonds is designed. The exchange rate of the hydrazone bond is tuned by varying the concentration of an organic catalyst, while maintaining the crosslinking density unchanged. This strategy of independently tuning exchange dynamics of crosslinks and crosslinking density allows unambiguous analysis of the viscoelastic response of the dynamic hydrogels as a function of their network parameters. It is found that the terminal relaxation time of the dynamic hydrogels is primarily determined by two factors: the exchange rate of crosslinks and the number of effective crosslinks per polymer chain, and is independent of the network architecture. Furthermore, a universal correlation is identified between the terminal relaxation time determined from stress relaxation and the exchange rate determined via reaction kinetics, which can be generalized to any viscoelastic hydrogel network, in principle. This quantitative correlation facilitates the development of dynamic hydrogels with a variable desired viscoelastic response based on molecular design.
Analyzing Change in Business Activity before, during, and after Autonomous Shuttle Bus Service in the Old Las Vegas Downtown Area

Abstract The American Automobile Association (AAA) conducted a 1-year pilot study of running a self-driving shuttle bus in the old downtown of Las Vegas between November 1, 2017, and October 31, 20...
Abstract #4035: Serotonin: A neurotransmitter as well as a potent angiokine

Serotonin (5-HT), an endogenous biogenic amine, has been recognized as an important neurotransmitter involved in many functions in central nervous system. Initially, 5-HT was identified as a powerful peripheral blood vasoconstrictor. Recently, 5-HT is emerging as a key mediator in different biological processes, including angiogenesis. However, the mechanism of action of 5-HT in the angiogenic process has not been established yet. Angiogenesis is a multi-step process initiated by endothelial cell activation. Targeting angiogenesis has become an effective treatment for several human diseases, including cancer. We studied the effects of 5-HT on key endothelial processes in angiogenesis. The results have shown that 5-HT is able to activate human endothelia potently by stimulating their proliferation and migration, and promoting the cell differentiation into capillary tubes. Experiments with 5-HT receptor antagonists demonstrated that 5-HT mediated endothelia activation is probably via 5-HT receptor 1 and 2, which have been shown to be expressed in human artery and vein endothelial cells. Immunostaining experiments also demonstrated serotonin receptor expression located at blood microvessels within xenograft tumors, suggesting serotonin signaling may be involved in tumor angiogenesis. Our results suggest that 5-HT is a potent angiogenic factor and serotonin signaling could be a novel target for modulating angiogenesis. Citation Information: In: Proc Am Assoc Cancer Res; 2009 Apr 18-22; Denver, CO. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; 2009. Abstract nr 4035.
Clinical review: The meaning of acid–base abnormalities in the intensive care unit part I – epidemiology

Acid–base abnormalities are common in critically ill patients. Our ability to describe acid–base disorders must be precise. Small differences in corrections for anion gap, different types of analytical processes, and the basic approach used to diagnose acid–base aberrations can lead to markedly different interpretations and treatment strategies for the same disorder. By applying a quantitive acid–base approach, clinicians are able to account for small changes in ion distribution that may have gone unrecognized with traditional techniques of acid–base analysis. Outcome prediction based on the quantitative approach remains controversial. This is in part due to use of various technologies to measure acid–base variables, administration of fluid or medication that can alter acid–base results, and lack of standardized nomenclature. Without controlling for these factors it is difficult to appreciate the full effect that acid–base disorders have on patient outcomes, ultimately making results of outcome studies hard to compare.
Planning, Proposing, and Presenting Science Effectively: A Guide for Graduate Students and Researchers in the Behavioral Sciences and Biology

Preface 1. How to plan research 2. How to write a research proposal 3. How to write a research report 4. How to present research 5. How to write a Curriculum Vitae Appendices.
TFTR neutral beam D-T gas injection system operational experiences of the first two years

The TFTR Neutral Beam Tritium Gas Injection System (TGIS) has successfully performed tritium operations since December 1993. TGIS operation has been reliable, with no leaks to the secondary containment to date. Notable operational problems include throughput leaks on fill, exit and piezoelectric valves. Repair of a TGIS requires replacement of the assembly, involving TFTR downtime and extensive purging, since the TGIS assembly is highly contaminated with residual tritium, and is located within secondary containment. Modifications to improve reliability and operating range include adjustable reverse bias voltage to the piezoelectric valves, timing and error calculation changes to tune the PLC and hardwired timing control, and exercising piezoelectric valves without actually pulsing gas prior to use after extended inactivity. A pressure sensor failure required the development of an open loop piezoelectric valve drive control scheme, using a simple voltage ramp to partially compensate for declining plenum pressure.
How big do stellar explosions get

We thought we knew how powerful supernova explosions could be. We also thought that supernovae and γ-ray bursts were unrelated. One extraordinary supernova is making us re-examine these ideas.
The molecular basis of the neuropathies of mouse and human.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the discovery of a gene for peripheral myelin protein 22 (PMP22) and its involvement in trembler neurological mutants. The cDNA for PMP22 was found in three independent library screens, two comparing the cDNAs from libraries made from normal rat sciatic nerve and from sciatic nerve after injury and the other comparing the cDNAs of quiescent and proliferating fibroblasts. In the latter instance, the gene was referred to as the growth arrest specific gene-3 because of its potential involvement in controlling growth in these cells. The cDNA encodes a small, extremely hydrophobic protein of 160 amino acid residues, with four putative membrane spanning domains and one asparagine-linked glycosylation site. Expression of PMP22 correlates with myelin formation and myelin-specific gene expression during sciatic nerve development and its down-regulation after nerve injury follows that of the myelin protein Po. In situ hybridization confirmed that PMP22 mRNA is synthesized by Schwann cells. PMP22 mRNA expression is clearly regulated by axon contact and is found mainly in the peripheral nervous system (PNS). The chapter discusses PMP22 and the inherited peripheral neuropathies in human, along with human peripheral neuropathies associated with mutations in other PNS myelin genes.
Glutamate Receptor Activation: A Four-Step Program

Receptors for neurotransmitters are often also ion channels, made up of more than one subunit working together as a unit. In this issue, Rosenmund et al. present a kinetic analysis of an ionotropic glutamate receptor that indicates that it is a tetramer, not a pentamer as thought before. In his commentary, Miller explains the elegant experiment that leads to this surprising conclusion.
Angular correlation function and scattering coefficient of electromagnetic waves scattered by a buried object under a two-dimensional rough surface

We study three-dimensional (3-D) electromagnetic wave scattering from a buried object under a two-dimensional (2-D) random rough surface. The surface integral equations of wave fields are used for the rough surface and the surface of the buried object. The surface fields are then solved by the method of moments. The scattered wave field from the object is represented by the rough-surface field so that the matrix equation can be solved efficiently by means of the sparse-matrix canonical-grid method. Numerical simulations are illustrated for a perfectly conducting sphere buried under a 2-D rough surface. Both the scattering coefficient (normalized radar cross section) and the angular correlation function (ACF) are calculated. The study of 3-D electromagnetic scattering allows the use of azimuthal angular averaging and the study of cross polarization and the polarization angular correlation function (PACF). It is found that the ACF is more effective in suppressing the clutter that is due to the rough-surface scattering, and the PACF is more useful for the detection of the buried object.
OH Absorption Profile in the Direction of Sagittarius A

WE would like to confirm Weinreb, Barrett, Meeks and Henry's1 discovery of the hydroxyl (OH) radical in the interstellar medium at frequency 1667.36 Mc/s. Fig. 1. shows observations of the Sagittarius A source in the frequency range 1,667.672–1,667.210 Mc/s. These observations were made between December 2 and December 9, 1963, with the 33-ft. antenna at the Hat Creek Radio Astronomy Observatory of the University of California, Berkeley. We used a switched-frequency receiver in which the comparison channel was fixed at 1,669 Mc/s and the signal channel, of bandwidth 50 kc/s, was scanned over the spectrum at the rate of 0.93 Mc/s per hour. The output of the receiver was digitized. ‘Print-out’ occurred every 23.3 kc/s during the scan; this corresponds to an integration time of 90 sec per point. For the receiver used we found an excess system noise of 750° K. We may thus expect (and we find) a root mean square uncertainty of 0.7° K for a single readout. The mean error of a plotted point on the OH curve in Fig. 1 is ± 0.13° K. The plotted frequency profile represents the mean of 29 scans.
Hydrodynamic Stability of Inverted Annular Flow in an Adiabatic Simulation

Inverted annular flow was simulated adiabatically with turbulent water jets, issuing downward from large aspect ratio nozzles, enclosed in gas annuli. Velocities, diameters, and gas species were varied, and core jet length, shape, breakup mode, and dispersed core droplet sizes were recorded at approximately 750 data points. Inverted annular flow destabilization led to inverted slug flow at low relative velocities, and to dispersed droplet flow, core breakup length correlations were developed by extending work on free liquid jets to include this coaxial, jet disintegration phenomenon. The results show length dependence upon D/sub J/, Re/sub J/, We/sub J/, ..cap alpha.., and We/sub G/,rel. Correlations for core shape, breakup mechanisms, and dispersed core droplet size were also developed, by extending the results of free jet stability, roll wave entrainment, and churn turbulent droplet stability studies.
Characterization of albumin-acacia complex coacervation

Abstract— Complex coacervation between oppositely charged albumin and acacia mixtures has been studied, and the applicability of the various theoretical treatments of complex coacervation (the Voorn-Overbeek, Veis-Aranyi, Nakajima-Sato, and Tainaka theories) to this system has been assessed. Under optimum conditions where maximum coacervate yield occurred, the Voorn-Overbeek theory appeared to apply. However, away from the optimum coacervation conditions, coacervate sol formation was observed, which is in accordance with the Veis-Aranyi and Tainaka theories. Microelectrophoretic measurements were used to determine optimum pH and ionic strength conditions for maximum coacervation, based on the method of Burgess & Carless (1984). The effects of pH and ionic strength on coacervate yield are reported. Around the optimum conditions for maximum coacervation a viscous coacervate phase and a relatively clear equilibrium phase are formed.
Effect of 2,4 dinitrophenol on electrical activity in Purkinje and ventricular muscle fibers of hog heart.

DNP (2,4 dinitrophenol), in concentrations of 2 to 5 x 10-5 M produced changes in transmembrane action potential in both the Purkinje and ventricular muscle fibers of the isolated perfused hog heart; however, the time of initiation and rate of change of the different phases of the action potential in the two fibers varied. In the Purkinje fiber, the earliest and most pronounced alteration was a loss in overshoot resulting in a decrease in amplitude of the action potential. Shortly thereafter, the action potential duration shortened, and membrane resting potential decreased. In the ventricular muscle fiber, the earliest and most prominent change was a shortening of action potential duration. This was followed by loss in overshoot and decrease in amplitude of action potential. The membrane resting potential declined but was not significantly different from that noted in Purkinje fiber. The changes in both fibers were reversed completely by washing with Tyrode's solution. The earlier and more pronounced shortening of action potential duration in ventricular muscle fiber as compared to Purkinje is attributed to a greater need of the former for metabolic energy. It may also be conjectured that the greater shortening of action potential duration in ventricular fiber is due to a more marked inhibitory effect of K+ influx by 2,4 dinitrophenol in this fiber with the K+ influx coupled to metabolic energy. To account for the more enhanced loss in overshoot in Purkinje fiber, it is suggested that 2,4 dinitrophenol has a greater modifying effect on Purkinje fiber membrane or on its Na+ carrying system. This results in an earlier and more pronounced decrease in Na+ influx in this fiber as compared with ventricular muscle fiber.
High temperature and pressure processing of maize cobs. I. Digestibility in vitro of processed cobs.

Dry matter disappearance in vitro (IVDMD) was used in a series of experiments to evaluate optimum temperature and pressure conditions and optimum moisture level for processing maize cobs. The results showed a bath temperature of 250°C, a pressure of 28 kg cm−2 and 75% moisture to be ideal. A rate of digestion study and chemical analysis on compositional changes associated with processing revealed that processed material was digested faster, suggesting an increase in cell soluble content. Processing reduced concentrations of acid detergent fibre (ADF) and cell wall constituents (CWC) (P < 0.005) but not acid detergent lignin.
Process-Tolerant Ultralow Voltage Digital Subthreshold Design

We propose process variation tolerant circuit techniques for robust digital subthreshold design. We present an 8times8 process-tolerant FIR filter, working in both super-threshold and subthreshold regions featuring adaptive beta-ratio modulation and integrated level converters. Ultra-dynamic voltage scaling (UVDS) enables the filter operation at 85 mV consuming 40 nW. For memory applications, we propose Schmitt trigger based SRAM bitcell exhibiting built-in process variation tolerance. Functional SRAM with the proposed memory bitcell is demonstrated at 160 mV in 0.13 mum CMOS technology.
Detection of local recurrences of limb soft tissue sarcomas: Is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) relevant?

The role of systematic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after resection of soft tissue sarcomas (STS) of the limb is opened to debate. The aim of our study was to retrospectively evaluate the effectiveness of a systematic MRI examination performed in 124 adult patients treated between 1996 and 2006 for a non-metastatic limb STS at our centre: 86 patients (70%) had clear resection margins (R0) and 111 patients (90%) received an adjuvant radiotherapy. Among the 11 local recurrences (9%) which were observed, MRI was able to detect only 2 asymptomatic local recurrences, one with and one without synchronous metastasis. Both had microscopically involved margins (R1). In contrast, MRI showed 11 false positive cases. As the predictive positive value of MRI was 42%, clinical follow-up seems to be more effective. As observed in our study, systematic MRI examination is not relevant for the follow-up of all limb soft tissue sarcomas. A prospective study could be promoted to evaluate the role of MRI in patients at high risk of local recurrence.
Heroin addiction and public policy

Abstract This paper investigates alternative approaches to the control of heroin addiction. It establishes criteria for evaluation of their relative effectiveness and derives estimates of net benefits associated with major existing heroin addiction control programs.
Acetylation phenotype in abstinent alcoholics.

No association between acetylation phenotype and alcoholism was discovered. Fifty-four percent of both the alcoholic patients and healthy volunteers were rapid acetylators. Acetylation phenotyping is not helpful to the investigation 01 the genetics of alcoholism.
Unconscious bias and real-world hypertension outcomes: advancing disparities research.

In 2003, in its landmark report Unequal Treatment, the Institute of Medicine (IOM), after examining the evidence and theories up to that time, boldly proclaimed: “Indirect evidence indicates that bias, stereotyping, prejudice, and clinical uncertainty on the part of healthcare providers may be contributory factors to racial and ethnic disparities in healthcare. Prejudice may stem from conscious bias, while stereotyping and biases may be conscious or unconscious, even among the well intentioned (emphasis added).” 1
Instability after arthroplasty: the shoulder.

Abstract Shoulder instability after total shoulder arthroplasty may be classified as posterior, anterior, superior, or inferior. Basic causes include malposition of the components, incorrect version of the glenoid or humeral cuts, soft tissue contractures or laxity, and cuff deficiency. These may be present as isolated or as combined deficiencies. As always, avoidance is best, but instability is the commonest complication of shoulder arthroplasty and must be dealt with correctly. Recognition of the anatomic cause is crucial. Proper evaluation with radiographs, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging is crucial to the treatment algorithm. Normally the glenoid is nearly perpendicular to the scapular spine, whereas the humeral head is retroverted about 30° with respect to the transepicondylar axis. After defining the anatomic problem, proper component positioning, elimination of contractures, plication of capsular laxity, and establishing cuff integrity ensure the best opportunity for a stable shoulder. Copyright 2002, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.
Temporal comparator rules and responding in multiple schedules

Three response rules for explaining the role of temporal factors in the control of responding were examined. These were the cycle-to-trial comparator rule from scalar expectancy theory (SET; Gibbon & Balsam, 1981), the “deletion” comparator rule proposed by Cooper, Aronson, Balsam, and Gibbon (1990), and a “bad/good” comparator rule—a type of ITI-to-trial comparator. Two of these rules were designed to explain the acquisition of responding in simple associative learning paradigms (i.e., autoshaping). Here, their generality as predictors of response levels in response-dependent multiple schedules was examined. SET’s overall cycle-to-trial comparator rule was the best predictor of the pattern of responding. Contrary to previous findings regarding contrast in multiple schedules, which show greater contrast with shorter component durations, there was no effect of absolute component duration. As predicted by SET, relative, not absolute, component durations controlled response levels.
Late agonist activation burst (PC) required for optimal head movement: A simulation study

Fast as possible (time optimal) single joint movements throughout the body are characterized by the triphasic (3 pulse) pattern of activation in the agonist and antagonist muscles. Simulation studies using a sixth order, non-linear model were undertaken to determine the relationship between time optimal movement and three pulse control. Exhaustive exploration of the multidimensional space formed by descriptive parameters of the control signal yielded control signals which drove the model to produce optimal movements. The result of these one to two week computer simulation runs was that if the limb is required to stay close to the target immediately after the end of the control signal, the fastest movements are produced by a three pulse control signal.