cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous determination of rupatadine and desloratadine concentration in human plasma by LC-MS / MS

Objective To establish a liquid chromatograph- Mass spectrum( LC- MS / MS) method for simultaneous determination of rupatadine and desloratadine concentration in human plasma. Methods With estazolam as internal standard,rupatadine and desloratadine were extracted from plasma with cyclohexane- diethyl ether( 50∶50,V / V). An aliquot was chromatographically analyzed on the Shimadzu VP- ODS( 150 mm × 2. 0 mm,5 μm) using the mobile phase comprised methanol- ammonium acetate( 5 mmol / L,p H = 2. 2)( 70 ∶30,V / V) by means of selective reaction monitoring( SRM) mode mass spectrometry. The determination ion was respectively m / z: 416. 1→309. 0( rupatadine),311. 2 →295. 0( desloratadine),295. 0 →267. 1( estazolam). Results The linearity was good when the concentration of rupatadine was 0. 1 ng / ml ~ 100. 0 ng / ml and the concentration of desloratadine was 0. 1 ng / ml ~ 50. 0 ng / ml( r 0. 99). The lowest limit of detection concentration of the two compounds were 0. 05 ng / ml. The absolute extraction recovery was above 70%. The intra- batch precision and inter-batch precision in the method were good( RSD 15%). Conclusion This method was easy and convenient,high sensitive,accurate and good linear in the pre- treatment of samples,which provided a new choice for the analysis of large bio- samples,such as rupatadine.
Convergent diversity and trait composition in temporary streams and ponds

Hydrology is the main environmental filter in aquatic ecosystems and may result in shared tolerances and functional traits among species in disparate ecosystems. We analyzed the associations between taxonomic and functional facets of diversity within aquatic ecosystems (ponds vs. streams) across a hydroperiod gradient (1–365 d) to untangle the hydrologic drivers of aquatic invertebrate diversity. We used invertebrate assemblage data from seven arid-land streams in southeastern Arizona, United States collected over 2 yr and nine temperate woodland ponds in Ontario, Canada collected over 2 yr. Our results showed that although invertebrate assemblages from streams and ponds differ taxonomically, hydroperiod had similar influence on invertebrate trait structure regardless of biogeographic and habitat differences. Streams and ponds independently showed strong positive relationships between functional richness and taxonomic richness; however, the relationship showed a shallower slope in ponds, indicating higher functional redundancy. Intermittent ponds and streams tended to have lower functional and taxonomic richness than their perennial counterparts, but harbored greater beta diversity. Our results suggest that even though ponds and streams are fundamentally different habitats with distinct faunas and unique ecological processes, hydrology produces convergent patterns in both trait composition and diversity patterns.
The Soviet Attitude Toward Integration in the World Economy

On the surface, it seems foolish for an American to write about the changing attitude of the Soviet government toward integration into the world economy when other chapters here are written by leading advisers to the Soviet government on the question. It would be clearly ridioulous for an American to explore current Soviet attitudes on current questions such as membership in the GATT or promotion of a United Nations conference on world economic interests.
Measurement of Peripheral Vision Reaction Time Identifies White Matter Disruption in Patients with Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

Abstract This study examined whether peripheral vision reaction time (PVRT) in patients with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) correlated with white matter abnormalities in centroaxial structures and impairments in neuropsychological testing. Within 24 h after mTBI, crossed reaction times (CRT), uncrossed reaction times (URT), and crossed–uncrossed difference (CUD) were measured in 23 patients using a laptop computer that displayed visual stimuli predominantly to either the left or the right visual field of the retina. The CUD is a surrogate marker of the interhemispheric transfer time (ITT). Within 7 days after the injury, patients received a diffusion tensor-MRI (DTI) scan and a battery of neuropsychological tests. Nine uninjured control subjects received similar testing. Patients 18–50 years of age were included if they had a post-resuscitation Glasgow Coma Scale >13 and an injury mechanism compatible with mTBI. Healthy controls were either age- and gender-matched family members of the TBI patients or...
Pioneers in Social Work Practice with the Addictions: An Interview with Lenore Kola, PhD

Dr. Lenore Kola is Associate Professor, Emerita, at the Jack, Joseph, and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences at Case Western Reserve University (Case), in Cleveland, Ohio. During her t...
Particle physics - A win-win situation

The most precise calculations yet of how two quarks locked in a bound state annihilate have been achieved using lattice quantum chromodynamics — and signal a curious discrepancy.
Microbiota replacement for Clostridium difficile by capsule is as effective as via colonoscopy.

Since its discovery in the late 1970s, the incidence of both primary and recurrent Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) has been increasing. For instance, from 2001 to 2012, the annual incidence of primary CDI and multiply recurrent CDI increased by 42.7% and 188.8%, respectively (1).
Patterns of Divorce and Remarriage

This chapter assumes that due to the high frequency of divorce and remarriage in America, some people who seek counseling may be involved in complicated relationship networks. Visual displays of these networks in the form of affinographs may help find solutions through individual, couple, or family counseling. The network ideas, expressed through affinographs, can help counselors deal with problems related to the changing family relationships. The term compound family was introduced to differentiate between the nuclear and extended families from the complex structures referred to in the literature under a variety of labels.
Stroke, music, and creative output: Alfred Schnittke and other composers

Alfred Schnittke (1934-1998), a celebrated Russian composer of the twentieth century, suffered from several strokes which affected his left cerebral hemisphere. The disease, however, did not diminish his musical talent. Moreover, he stated that his illness in a way facilitated his work. The composer showed amazingly high productivity after his first and second injuries of the central nervous system. The main topic of this chapter is the effect of strokes on Schnittke's output, creativity, and style of music. A brief biography of the composer with the chronology of his brain hemorrhages is included. In addition, the influence of cerebrovascular lesions on creative potential of other prominent composers such as Benjamin Britten, Jean Langlais, Vissarion Shebalin, Igor Stravinsky, and Ira Randall Thompson is discussed.
Cyanamide Mediated Syntheses of LEU, ALA, and PHE Peptides Under Plausible Primitive Earth Conditions

Using the model of a primitive earth evaporating pond, peptides were formed in yields of up to 21%, 30% and 35%, respectively for alanine, phenylalanine, and leucine when aqueous solutions of the appropriate amino acid were evaporated and heated for 24 hrs at 80°C with cyanamide and one or more of the following components; adenosine 5′-triphosphate, 4-amino-5 imidazole carboxamide, or MgCl2. The greatest peptide yield was achieved at about pH 3. But peptide formation was demonstrated for a system of leu, cyanamide and MgCl2 adjusted to pH 7 with NH4OH. The incorporation of radioactive amino acids into products was found to be increased in the presence of MgCl2 at all pH’s studied, which ranged from 3 to 7. The major side product in all reactions appears to be an amino acid-cyanamide adduct. The peptides were analyzed and identified by thin layer chromatography, acid hydrolysis, and enzymatic degradation.
Nutrient Deprivation Elicits a Transcriptional and Translational Inflammatory Response Coupled to Decreased Protein Synthesis.

Summary Nutrient deprivation inhibits mRNA translation through mTOR and eIF2α signaling, but it is unclear how the translational program is controlled to reflect the degree of a metabolic stress. In a model of breast cellular transformation, various forms of nutrient deprivation differentially affect the rate of protein synthesis and its recovery over time. Genome-wide translational profiling of glutamine-deprived cells reveals a rapid upregulation of mRNAs containing uORFs and downregulation of ribosomal protein mRNAs, which are followed by selective translation of cytokine and inflammatory mRNAs. Transcription and translation of inflammatory and cytokine genes are stimulated in response to diverse metabolic stresses and depend on eIF2α phosphorylation, with the extent of stimulation correlating with the decrease in global protein synthesis. In accord with the inflammatory stimulus, glutamine deprivation stimulates the migration of transformed cells. Thus, pro-inflammatory gene expression is coupled to metabolic stress, and this can affect cancer cell behavior upon nutrient limitation.
A Critical Mechanism for Improving Teaching and Promoting Teacher Learning During Chinese Lesson Study: An Analysis of the Dynamics Between Enactment and Reflection

Chinese and Japanese lesson studies are similar structurally yet different regarding the necessity of repeated teaching and knowledgeable others’ input. Chinese teachers’ learning through lesson study emphasizes the unity of knowing and doing and practical reasoning in deliberate practice. Utilizing a deliberate practice perspective to examine the process of lesson study, this study examined the dynamics between enactments and reflections during Chinese lesson study and its impact on improving teaching and teacher learning. Three cycles of lesson study involving three first-grade teachers occurred in the Southeastern USA, with an expert team of mathematics educators and specialists facilitating. Data included lesson plans, videotaped research lessons and debriefing sessions, and post-lesson study reflection reports. Major changes across enacted lessons and argumentations made during the debriefings contributing to the changes were identified. Data analysis revealed that experts and teachers collaboratively made contributions to improving the lesson. Experts mainly focused on implementing learning trajectory and sequencing tasks, while teachers focused on students’ learning readiness and on formative assessment. Teachers expressed enthusiasm for the lesson study process and perceived that their teaching skills and knowledge of content, pedagogy, and student thinking increased. This study uncovers the mechanism of lesson study as deliberate practice, which emphasizes the necessity of repeated teaching and immediate input of knowledgeable others, and highlights the unique impact of the dynamics between enactments and reflection on teachers’ learning.
Internationalising cultural products: the Ouroboros strategy and the case of visual kei

ABSTRACTScholars have developed a vast literature that helps firms internationalise products and brands. Yet, there is comparatively limited work that examines the internationalisation strategies o...
Self-Determination and College Students with Disabilities: Research Trends and Construct Measurement

The literature on postsecondary students with disabilities stresses the importance of self-determination skills on the college experiences and outcomes of these students. However, the theoretical f...
Homologous Regulation of Mu Opioid Receptor Recycling by G βγ , Protein Kinase C, and Receptor Phosphorylation.

Membrane trafficking and receptor signaling are two fundamental cellular processes that interact constantly. Although how trafficking regulates signaling is well studied, how signaling pathways regulate trafficking is less well understood. Here, we use the mu opioid receptor (MOR), the primary target for opioid analgesics, to define a signaling pathway that dynamically regulates postendocytic receptor recycling. By directly visualizing individual MOR recycling events, we show that agonist increases MOR recycling. Inhibition of G βγ, phospholipase C, or protein kinase C mimicked agonist removal, whereas activation of G βγ increased recycling even after agonist removal. Phosphorylation of serine 363 on the C-terminal tail of MOR was required and sufficient for agonist-mediated regulation of MOR recycling. Our results identify a feedback loop that regulates MOR recycling via G βγ , protein kinase C, and receptor phosphorylation. This could serve as a general model for how signaling regulates postendocytic trafficking of G protein-coupled receptors. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) localization in the endosome is being increasingly recognized as an important and distinct component of GPCR signaling and physiology. This study identifies a G protein-dependent and protein kinase C-dependent signaling pathway that dynamically regulates the endosomal localization of the mu opioid receptor, the primary target of opioid analgesics and abused drugs. This pathway could provide a mechanism to manipulate spatial encoding of opioid signaling and physiology.
Elaborative Reminiscing and Child Receptive Language in the Context of Maltreatment: The Moderating Role of Maternal Sensitivity.

This study investigated whether the effect of maternal elaborative reminiscing on child language is moderated by maternal sensitivity and whether this association depends on children’s experience o...
Long-Term Outcomes After Transcatheter and Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients With Cirrhosis: A Guide for the Hepatologist.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS Hepatologists often determine whether transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) or surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) is preferred for patients with cirrhosis and severe aortic stenosis. The goal of this cohort study is to compare outcomes following TAVR and SAVR in patients with cirrhosis to inform the preferred intervention. APPROACH AND RESULTS Prospectively collected data on 105 consecutive patients with cirrhosis and aortic stenosis who underwent TAVR (n = 55) or SAVR (n = 50) between 2008 and 2016 were reviewed retrospectively. Two control groups were included: 2,680 patients without cirrhosis undergoing TAVR and SAVR and 17 patients with cirrhosis who received medical therapy alone. Among the 105 patients with cirrhosis, the median Society of Thoracic Surgeons score was 3.8% (1.5, 6.9), and the median Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score was 11.6 (9.4, 14.0). The TAVR group had similar in-hospital (1.8% vs. 2.0%) and 30-day mortality (3.6% vs. 4.2%) as the SAVR group. During the median follow-up of 3.8 years (95% confidence interval, 3.0-6.9), there were 63 (60%) deaths. MELD score (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.13; 95% confidence interval, 1.05-1.21; P = 0.002) was an independent predictor of long-term survival. In the subgroup of patients with MELD score <12, the TAVR group had reduced survival compared with the SAVR group (median survival of 2.8 vs. 4.4 years; P = 0.047). However, in those with MELD score ≥12, survival after TAVR, SAVR, and medical therapy was similar (1.3 vs. 2.1 vs. 1.6 years, respectively; P = 0.53). CONCLUSION In select patients with cirrhosis, both TAVR and SAVR have acceptable and comparable short-term outcomes. MELD score, but not Society of Thoracic Surgeons score, independently predicts long-term survival after TAVR and SAVR. For patients with MELD score <12, SAVR is a preferred procedure; however, neither procedure appears superior to medical therapy in patients with MELD score ≥12.
Brief Report: Children on the Autism Spectrum are Challenged by Complex Word Meanings

The current work suggests that two factors conspire to make vocabulary learning challenging for youth on the Autism spectrum: (1) a tendency to focus on specifics rather than on relationships among entities and (2) the fact that most words are associated with distinct but related meanings (e.g. baseball cap, pen cap, bottle cap). Neurotypical (NT) children find it easier to learn multiple related meanings of words (polysemy) in comparison to multiple unrelated meanings (homonymy). We exposed 60 NT children and 40 verbal youth on the Autism spectrum to novel words. The groups' performance learning homonyms was comparable, but unlike their NT peers, youth on the spectrum did not display the same advantage for learning polysemous words compared to homonyms.
The management of osteochondral loss in the skeletally immature knee

Abstract Osteochondral lesions in children and adolescents can be managed by different techniques. There is a paucity of evidence with regards to the optimal management of these particular lesions. Salvage options are mostly inferred from the adult literature, with Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation the most popular technique. The use of fresh allograft has good documented outcomes in this cohort.
Ortega’s Aesthetics

Throughout his life Ortega y Gasset turned his attention to the definition and critical analysis of art and aesthetics, converting this theorization into a vital constituent of his philosophical system. In his own peculiar style, the Spanish thinker tried to understand the political, historical, and social disruptions of his time and their reflection in culture, aesthetics, and art in the early twentieth century. This chapter stresses the place of aesthetics in Ortega’s philosophical system and the role of metaphor as a source of existence and knowledge. We will focus on Ortega’s philosophical evolution and mainly on his theorization of art according to the two aesthetics or paradigms that had been prefigured from his first article “Adam in Paradise” (1910) to “Velazquez” (1959), stressing The Dehumanization of Art (1925) as a turning point in Ortega’s perspective toward the nature and purpose of art. In this masterpiece, Ortega recognized in avant-garde movements a new sensibility, concluding that what was lost in transcendence was gained in innovation. Albeit this new art form has no defined rules, it should be respected and supported, since it represents the artist’s subjectivity and perspectivism. Ortega’s sharp analysis raises new readings and interpretations that we aim to reevaluate in favor of a more syncretic reassessment.
DOES CLEISTOGAMOUS SELF-FERTILIZATION PROVIDE REPRODUCTIVE ASSURANCE AGAINST SEED PREDATION IN RUELLIA HUMILIS?

Mixed mating is thought to be adaptive in many species of flowering plants because self-fertilization provides reproductive assurance when pollinator densities are low. In species with dimorphic flowers, automatic self-fertilization by small cleistogamous (CL) flowers might also provide reproductive assurance by avoiding floral herbivory. We tested this hypothesis by quantifying flower production, seed production, and seed predation across an entire reproductive season within a Missouri population of Ruellia humilis, a species with mixed mating enforced by dimorphic flowers. The production of CL flowers was delayed relative to the production of open-pollinated chasmogamous (CH) flowers, consistent with the hypothesis of reproductive assurance. The rate of seed predation by larvae of the Noctuid moth Tripudia rectangula was much higher for fruits produced by CH flowers (69%) than by CL flowers (18%). Thus, although CH flowers self-pollinate in the absence of outcross pollen, CL flowers are a much more economical source of selfed seeds, not only because they require fewer resources but also because they experience much lower levels of seed predation. Seed predation by Tripudia is common in many other cleistogamous species of Ruellia native to the southern United States and Mexico and might have played a significant role in the evolution of CL flowers in this large genus.
Order Parameter Symmetry and Unconventional Superconductivity of Na0.30CoO2⋅ 1.3H2O Discussed from Experimental Results

An unconventional superconductor of Na0.30CoO2⋅1.3H2O has been reviewed in view of its order parameter symmetry mainly from experimental results for this compound. This superconductor exhibits the ground state (a low field regime) that possesses singlet superconductivity (the s-wave) formed from various elemental order parameter symmetries, spin fluctuations within the C o O 2 plane, and other physical properties, which are proved with comparing these experimental results with theoretical results in this field, and the order parameter symmetry can be identified as the extended s-wave. On the other hand, in the high field regime, triplet superconductivity has been detected by temperature dependence of upper critical fields (H c2(T)) and that of Knight shift as well as the ground state. The triplet superconductivity is understood through Hund’s coupling, hyperfine coupling interaction, Nagaoka ferromagnetism, and the averaged valence of the Co ions in the CoO2. The superconductivity is discussed using the various physical properties which influence the order parameter symmetry of this superconductor, and it also suggested that some quantum phase transitions can be detected with respect to superconductivity of title compounds.
Analysis of Tensors

Tensor algebra deals with lifeless vectors and tensors—objects that do not move, do not change, possess no dynamics. Whenever there is a need for tensors in physics, there is also a need to know the way these tensors change with position and time. Tensors that depend on position and time are called tensor fields and are the subject of this chapter.
Chemistry Through Invariant Theory

In his Cours de Philosophie positive, the nineteenth-century French philosopher, Auguste Comte, detailed a philosophy crucially dependent upon science and scientific thought.1 In his system, human comprehension and explanation of the natural world progressed through three stages: in the first, theological stage, divine will accounted for natural phenomena; in the next, metaphysical stage, interpretations of nature took an abstract, philosophical cast; and in the final, so-called “positive” stage, scientific truth characterized the world. According to Comte, the mind reached the positive stage by moving through a well-defined hierarchy of scientific thought. At its base lay mathematics, the most complex of the sciences in his view. Furthermore, since mathematics represented a body of scientific truths, it had already reached the stage of positive knowledge and, in fact, was historically the first science to attain this goal. Upon this base rested five sciences in ascending order of their historical achievement of the positive stage and thus, to Comte’s way of thinking, in order of their decreasing complexity and increasing generality. They were astronomy, physics, chemistry, biology, and, at the top, a new science for which Comte coined the term “sociology.” Of these, he held that all but the essentially brand-new science of sociology had reached the positive stage by the mid-nineteenth century. He thus took it as his task not only to establish this discipline in terms of scientific truths but also to achieve the synthesis of all of the positive sciences into one complete and unified positive philosophy.
ACTIVE GALACTIC NUCLEUS AND STARBURST RADIO EMISSION FROM OPTICALLY SELECTED QUASI-STELLAR OBJECTS

We used the 1.4 GHz NVSS to study radio sources in two color-selected QSO samples: a volume-limited sample of 1313 QSOs defined by M i < –23 in the redshift range 0.2 < z < 0.45 and a magnitude-limited sample of 2471 QSOs with m r ≤ 18.5 and 1.8 < z < 2.5. About 10% were detected above the 2.4 mJy NVSS catalog limit and are powered primarily by active galactic nuclei (AGNs). The space density of the low-redshift QSOs evolves as ρ∝(1 + z)6. In both redshift ranges the flux-density distributions and luminosity functions of QSOs stronger than 2.4 mJy are power laws, with no features to suggest more than one kind of radio source. Extrapolating the power laws to lower luminosities predicts the remaining QSOs should be extremely radio quiet, but they are not. Most were detected statistically on the NVSS images with median peak flux densities S p(mJy beam–1) ≈ 0.3 and 0.05 in the low- and high-redshift samples, corresponding to spectral luminosities log [L 1.4 GHz(W Hz–1)] ≈ 22.7 and 24.1, respectively. We suggest that the faint radio sources are powered by star formation at rates in the moderate luminosity (median M i ≈ –23.4) low-redshift QSOs and in the very luminous (M i ≈ –27.5) high-redshift QSOs. Such luminous starbursts [log (L IR/L ☉) ~ 11.2 and 12.6, respectively] are consistent with "quasar mode" accretion in which cold gas flows fuel both AGN and starburst.
Genetic Information: Epistemological and Ethical Issues

This chapter contains sections titled: Introduction Information Theory and the Notion of Genetic Information A Semantic or a Syntactic Theory of Genetic Information The Cell as Computer Machinery Use and Misuse of Models Ethical Problems of Genetic Information References
Selection of rolling-element bearing steels for long-life applications

Nearly four decades of research in bearing steel metallurgy and processing have resulted in improvements in bearing life by a factor of 100 over that obtained in the early 1940's. For critical applications such as aircraft, these improvements have resulted in longer lived, more reliable commercial aircraft engines. Material factors such as hardness, retained austenite, grain size and carbide size, number, and area can influence rolling-element fatigue life. Bearing steel processing such as double vacuum melting can have a greater efect on bearing life than material chemistry. The selection and specification of a bearing steel is dependent on the integration of all these considerations into the bearing design and application. The paper reviews rolling-element fatigue data and analysis which can enable the engineer or metallurgist to select a rolling-element bearing steel for critical applications where long life is required.
Integration of hard real-time schedulers

Over the last few decades, numerous research results have been obtained on scheduling specific real-time workloads to run on dedicated resources. In the last few years, research in scheduler composition on shared resources has attracted increasing attention for the following reasons. The capacities of resources in real-time embedded systems, such as processors, communications channels, have been growing rapidly. These hardware advances create possibilities for more complex and integrated functionalities that share the same resources. Heterogeneous workloads are now allocated to shared resources in contemporary designs. The complexity of the scheduler is accordingly increased. Approaches in scheduler composition have been proposed as a divide-and-conquer strategy to deal with the complexity of scheduler design for these integrated systems. Most of the scheduler composition approaches that have been proposed can be treated within a framework of two-layers: coordinator and components. This dissertation covers our contributions in these two layers, namely, Class-based Component Composition (CCC) approach in the layer of coordinating mechanisms and pre-scheduling in the layer of component construction. We propose CCC for composing independent components in an open environment. CCC uses a workload classification scheme to guarantee that the supply of shared resource always meets the hard-real-time constraints for on-budget workloads. It also aims to achieve a balance over multiple design objectives including composition overhead, overload handling and accommodating the range of real-time applications. A pre-schedule is a static schedule that does not require constant and completely predictable rate of resource supply. We present a sound, complete, and PTIME basic pre-scheduler based on Linear Programming (LP). Since infinitely small slices of time are not implementable in time-domain multiplexing for resources with non-negligible context switch overheads, it is desirable to define and solve the pre-scheduling problem on the domain of integers. We construct a rational-to-integral pre-schedule transformer based on a novel technique which we call “round-and-compensate”. This transformer is sound, complete and runs in PTIME. We also present an extension of the basic pre-scheduler for solving precedence constraints, and show two examples on how to do resource supply analysis in our framework.
Postoperative Nomogram for Disease Recurrence After Radical Prostatectomy for Prostate Cancer

PURPOSE: Although models exist that place patients into discrete groups at various risks for disease recurrence after surgery for prostate cancer, we know of no published work that combines pathologic factors to predict an individual's probability of disease recurrence. Because clinical stage and biopsy Gleason grade only approximate pathologic stage and Gleason grade in the prostatectomy specimen, prediction of prognosis should be more accurate when postoperative information is added to preoperative variables. Therefore, we developed a postoperative nomogram that allows more accurate prediction of probability for disease recurrence for patients who have received radical prostatectomy as treatment for prostate cancer, compared with the preoperative nomogram we previously published. PATIENTS AND METHODS: By Cox proportional hazards regression analysis, we modeled the clinical and pathologic data and disease follow-up for 996 men with clinical stage T1a-T3c NXM0 prostate cancer who were treated with radical...
Completing 3D object shape from one depth image

Our goal is to recover a complete 3D model from a depth image of an object. Existing approaches rely on user interaction or apply to a limited class of objects, such as chairs. We aim to fully automatically reconstruct a 3D model from any category. We take an exemplar-based approach: retrieve similar objects in a database of 3D models using view-based matching and transfer the symmetries and surfaces from retrieved models. We investigate completion of 3D models in three cases: novel view (model in database); novel model (models for other objects of the same category in database); and novel category (no models from the category in database).
Frey Syndrome Before Frey: The Correct History

To review the chronology of publications on gustatory sweating before Frey's landmark publication.
Precision Sensing by Two Opposing Gradient Sensors: How Does Escherichia coli Find its Preferred pH Level?

It is essential for bacteria to find optimal conditions for their growth and survival. The optimal levels of certain environmental factors (such as pH and temperature) often correspond to some intermediate points of the respective gradients. This requires the ability of bacteria to navigate from both directions toward the optimum location and is distinct from the conventional unidirectional chemotactic strategy. Remarkably, Escherichia coli cells can perform such a precision sensing task in pH taxis by using the same chemotaxis machinery, but with opposite pH responses from two different chemoreceptors (Tar and Tsr). To understand bacterial pH sensing, we developed an Ising-type model for a mixed cluster of opposing receptors based on the push-pull mechanism. Our model can quantitatively explain experimental observations in pH taxis for various mutants and wild-type cells. We show how the preferred pH level depends on the relative abundance of the competing sensors and how the sensory activity regulates the behavioral response. Our model allows us to make quantitative predictions on signal integration of pH and chemoattractant stimuli. Our study reveals two general conditions and a robust push-pull scheme for precision sensing, which should be applicable in other adaptive sensory systems with opposing gradient sensors.
Neuroprotective effects of ginseng total saponin and ginsenosides Rb1 and Rg1 on spinal cord neurons in vitro.

Spinal cord injury is a major cause of disability and results in many serious physical, psychological, and social difficulties. Numerous studies have shown that traumatic spinal cord injuries (SCI) lead to neuronal loss and axonal degeneration in and around the injury site that cause partial disability or complete paralysis. An important strategy in the treatment of SCI is to promote neuron survival and axon outgrowth, making possible the recovery of neural connections. Using an in vitro survival assay, we have identified ginsenosides Rb1 and Rg1, extracted from ginseng root (Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer), as efficient neuroprotective agents for spinal cord neurons. These compounds protect spinal neurons from excitotoxicity induced by glutamate and kainic acid, as well as oxidative stress induced by H(2)O(2). The neuroprotective effects are dose-dependent. The optimal doses are 20-40 microM for ginsenosides Rb1 and Rg1. The effects are specific for Rb1 and Rg1, since a third ginsenoside, Re, did not exhibit any activity. Ginseng has been used for thousands of years in the treatment of neurological disorders and other diseases in Asia. Ginsenosides Rb1 and Rg1 represent potentially effective therapeutic agents for spinal cord injuries.
Infrared spectra of the metaborate ion in alkali halide solid solution

Abstract The infrared spectrum and vibrational frequencies of the metaborate ion have been discussed. Samples enriched in 17 O and 18 O have been examined.
Tracer diffusion of silver and tin in a dental alloy (Ag3Sn).

The diffusivities of Ag110m and Sn113 in bulk Ag3Sn were measured using the method of Gruzin. The volume diffusion coefficients were determined over the temperature range 200 to 400°C, with temperature dependence given by D 1.03 × 10−3 exp (−22,400/RT) and D = 4.01 × 10−4 exp (−22,800/RT) cm2/sec. The fact that silver is the faster moving species in bulk Ag3Sn is important to the amalgamation process. On the other hand, it was found that along grain boundaries, tin tracer atoms diffused faster than did silver atoms. Faster grain boundary diffusion of tin, however, may not be a decisive factor in the actual amalgamation process, since mercury penetration exceeds the migration of tin atoms along grain boundaries.
The Comparative Ethology of Great, Blue, Marsh, and Coal Tits At a Winter Feeding Station

The behaviour of four species of titmice (Parus spp.) was observed at a winter feeding station. All four species had the same display patterns but their frequency varied. These differences were correlated with the relative timidity of the four species. Timidity appeared to depend upon the proximate factors of density and territorial behaviour of the different species rather than being an innate difference. However, timidity might ultimately be controlled by innate differences in aggressiveness. Each behaviour element was associated with specific probabilities of being followed by attack, escape, or staying. An element that was indicative of a predominant escape tendency in one species indicated the same tendency in all other species. The same was true for attack and staying tendencies. These behaviour elements function as a means of both intra- and interspecific communication.
Soil seed bank dynamics in relation to topographic position of a mixed-deciduous forest in southern New England, USA

Abstract We examined the floristic significance of soil seed banks in relation to valley, midslope and ridge sites in a 70–90-year old forest in northeastern Connecticut. A-horizon mineral soils were collected to 5 cm depth in the early spring from forest understory sites across the topography. Samples from each of the sites were exposed to full sun within a greenhouse. Records of germination were made at regular intervals over a 60-day period. These showed significant differences among sites in number of species and total number of germinants. Greatest numbers of species and germinants were recorded from valley sites and these progressively declined from midslope to ridgetop. Twenty-five different species were identified. Species were grouped into growth habits – graminoids, herbs, shrubs, trees, and vines. Over 61% of all germinants across all sites were graminoids. Seventy-four percent of all germinants in the valley sites were graminoids, with over 93% of them represented by two sedge species, Carex glaucodea and C. lupulina. On the ridgetop sites graminoids were more evenly distributed among six different species. The percentage in each growth habit changed rank across topographic position with germinants of graminoids and trees most abundant on valley sites; herbs, on midslopes, and shrubs, on ridgetops. All germinants, except for those of the trees, Carex spp., and two herb species were weedy species that were not characteristic of the existing vegetation. Germinants of the trees, Carex spp., and herbs that were characteristic of the existing vegetation were mostly confined to soils from the valley sites. Two weedy herbs, Plantago major and Verbascum thapsus, are exotic introductions that originally came from Europe. Only one vine, Vitis aestivalis, from a midslope site germinated. Species diversity is higher on midslope sites than valleys and ridgetops. The significance of these findings in relation to site productivity and disturbance history is discussed.
Spontaneous Substrate Binding and Formation of the Bound State in Glycerol-3-Phosphate Transporter (GlpT)

GlpT is an antiporter mediating the uptake of glycerol-3-phosphate (G3P) across the membrane using preexisting gradient of inorganic phosphate (Pi). GlpT is believed to function through an alternating access mechanism, in which the two functional states inter-convert through rocker-switch type of conformational changes. However, the crystal structure of GlpT is only available in its cytosol-open state. Furthermore, the location of the binding site and residues involved in substrate binding are largely unknown. We have carried out an exhaustive set of long (50 ns or longer) molecular dynamics simulations of GlpT in the presence of all physiologically relevant substrates, i.e., monovalent and divalent Pi and G3P, as well as in the apo state as control. The substrate is placed at the opening of the lumen in the beginning of each simulation. In all of the simulations, we observe rapid, spontaneous binding of the substrate in less than 10 ns. All trajectories consistently yield a common binding pathway, composed of several conserved residues: K80 acting as a “fishing hook”, one of the symmetrically positioned arginines (R45), and H165. The phosphate moiety of the substrate first binds to K80, which brings the substrate to a close contact with R45 and H165. Despite its symmetrical position to R45, no direct contact with conserved R269 is observed in any of the simulations. Neutralizing any one of the above residues impairs binding as revealed by additional simulations. Moreover, substrate binding results in appreciable closure of the helices in the cytoplasmic side illuminating initial steps of the rocker-switch mechanism. Our MD simulations reveal a common pathway involved in binding of the substrate, a detailed view of the binding site, and initial protein conformational changes induced by substrate binding.
Retinal vein thrombosis associated with chronic hepatitis C: a case series and review of the literature.

The role of procoagulant autoantibodies in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is unclear. Three individuals with HCV infection and a unique genetic hypercoagulable state developed retinal vein thrombosis (RVT) in association with interferon-α (IFN-α) therapy. It is probable that a combination of active HCV infection in a genetically susceptible individual receiving IFN-α accounted for the observed RVT.
Deoxygenation of Methanol over ZSM-5 in a High-Pressure Catalytic Pyroprobe

Deoxygenation is a critical step in making hydrocarbon-rich biofuels from biomass constituents. Although the thermal effects of oxygenate aromatization have been widely reported, the effect of pressure on this critical reaction has not yet been closely investigated, one primary reason being the unavailability of a reactor that can pyrolyze oxygenates, especially those in solid form, under pressurized conditions. Here, the first of a series of studies on how oxygenates behave when catalytically pyrolyzed under elevated pressure and temperature conditions is reported. Methanol, the simplest alcohol, was selected as the candidate to study the chemical phenomena that occur under pressurized catalytic pyrolysis. The reactions were carried out over the shape-selective catalyst ZSM-5 (SiO2/Al2O3 = 30) under varying pressure (0 to 2.0684 MPa (300 psi) in 0.3447 MPa (50 psi) increments) and temperature (500 to 800 °C in 50 °C increments) conditions. Benzene, toluene, ethyl benzene, and xylenes (BTEX) were analyzed as the deoxygenated products of the reaction. The results indicate that the reactor pressure significantly affects deoxygenated product composition.
The effect of point defects and nanoparticles on thermal conductivity of magnesium silicide

Abstract We compute thermal conductivity ( κ ) of magnesium silicide (Mg 2 Si) with point defects and nanoparticles through molecular dynamics simulation. To describe an alloy with complex defect structures, the extended modified embedded atom method is utilized in this simulation study. The calculated phonon dispersion and κ of pristine Mg 2 Si are in close agreement with first-principles calculations and experimental results. We compared the effect of intrinsic point defects and nanoparticles on heat transfer in Mg 2 Si at the same stoichiometry. We find that point defects could be more effective than nanoparticles to reduce κ . The geometric size effect is also investigated for Mg and Si nanoparticles. Smaller Mg nanoparticles can significantly reduce κ . However, Si nanoparticles demonstrate little size effect on κ . Our simulation results show that phonon transport in Mg 2 Si has more contribution from strain scattering than mass defect scattering. These findings can provide guidance for experiments to more effectively engineer bulk Mg 2 Si with nanostructured defects for thermoelectric applications.
A Mechanism for Shear Band Formation in the High Strain-Rate Torsion Test

A moving boundary of rigid unloading, starting from the ends of the thin-walled tubular specimen, is a plausible mechanism for adiabatic shear band formation during the test. The mathematical model is based on a physical model of thermoelastic-plastic flow and a phenomenological Arrhenius model for the plastic flow surface
Partial Small Bowel Resection with Sleeve Gastrectomy Increases Adiponectin Levels and Improves Glucose Homeostasis in Obese Rodents with Type 2 Diabetes

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of small bowel resection with and without sleeve gastrectomy on glucose homeostasis in an obese rodent model of type 2 diabetes. Zucker diabetic fatty rats were randomized into three surgical groups: Sham, small bowel resection, and small bowel resection with sleeve gastrectomy (BRSG). Weight and fasting glucose levels were measured at randomization and monitored after surgery. Oral glucose tolerance testing was performed at baseline and 45 days after surgery to assess glucose homeostasis and peptide changes. At baseline, all animals exhibited impaired glucose tolerance and showed no difference in weight or fasting (area under the curve) AUCglucose. At sacrifice, Sham animals weighed more than BRSG animals (p = 0.047). At day 45, the Sham group experienced a significant increase in AUCglucose compared to baseline (p = 0.02), whereas there was no difference in AUCglucose in either surgical group at any time point: BR (p = 0.58) and BRSG (p = 0.56). Single-factor ANOVA showed a significant difference in AUCglucose of p = 0.004 between groups postoperatively: Sham (50,745 ± 11,170) versus BR (23,865 ± 432.6) (p = 0.01); Sham versus BRSG (28,710 ± 3188.8) (p = 0.02). There was no difference in plasma insulin, GLP-1, or adiponectin levels before surgery, although 45 days following surgery adiponectin levels where higher in the BRSG group (p = 0.004). Partial small bowel resection improved glucose tolerance independent of weight. The combination of small bowel resection and sleeve gastrectomy leads to an increase in adiponectin levels, which may contribute to improved glucose homeostasis.
Rare kaon decays

Abstract We present a comprehensive review of the current theoretical and experimental status of rare kaon decays. The Standard Model contributions to K + → π + ν ν , K L → π 0 ν ν , and KL → π0ee are analyzed in detail, followed by a discussion of alternative theoretical frameworks that could modify the Standard Model predictions. Special attention is paid to “direct” super-symmetric flavor-changing neutral currents induced by renormalization-group scaling in minimal and in non-minimal supersymmetry. We review the theoretical motivations for the lepton number-violating decays KL → μe and K+ → π+μe, and present bounds on the new interactions which mediate these processes. We describe the present cadre of rare kaon detectors, discuss the significance of their recent results, and assess to what extent their future results are likely to address the fundamental issues outlined above.
Postoperative Delirium in Elderly Patients After Elective Hip or Knee Arthroplasty Performed Under Regional Anesthesia

Delirium is a major adverse postoperative event in elderly patients. Incidence rates of postoperative delirium are difficult to determine. Because of the accuracy, brevity, and ease of use by clinical interviewers, the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) has become widely used. This study used the CAM to determine the rate of postoperative delirium in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) procedures under regional anesthesia. Following Institutional Review Board approval, a prospective study of 20 patients per group ages 70 and above undergoing unilateral THA or TKA was initiated. Both groups received a combined spinal–epidural, postoperative patient-controlled epidural anesthesia, and postoperative oral opioids. Patient interviews occurred five times: once preoperatively and two times each on postoperative days 1 and 2. Only two patients were assessed as delirious according to the CAM method (one in each group; 5%). Patient assessment by other clinicians indicated that five additional patients experienced acute change in mental status; however, these patients were not delirious at the times of the study interviews. The rate of delirium in the elderly after arthroplasty performed under regional anesthesia is very low. Reasons for this include patient selection criteria and anesthesia type. The study excluded patients with several proposed risk factors for postoperative delirium: prior history of dementia, history of mental illness, and use of benzodiazepines. The use of regional anesthesia may have also reduced the occurrence of postoperative delirium.
Emerging applications of measurements from GPS and related signals

Over the past two decades, the value of Global Positioning System (GPS) measurements to solid Earth science, atmospheric science, ocean science, space physics, and other areas has been firmly established in some cases, such as global and regional surface deformation. In other cases, the value of GPS measurements is now emerging or showing a potential. Some researchers believe the time now has come to assess, from a multi-program and multi-discipline perspective, the benefits of a continuing investment in GPS technology development, and to determine its role in the vision and priorities of national research organizations. In conjunction with the 2004 AGU Fall Meeting special focus session on “Emerging science applications of measurements from GPS/GNSS and GPS-like signals: Recent results and future possibilities,” a workshop was held on the prior evening, 16 December. Chaired by Jim Anderson of Harvard University, the workshop objective stated in the invitation to participants was “ …to identify and articulate the key scientific questions that are optimally, or perhaps uniquely, addressed by GPS (or more generally, the Global Navigation Satellite System, GNSS, to include other constellations such as Galileo) or GPS-like observations, and determine their relevance to existing or planned national Earth-science research programs.”