cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Neural correlates and neural computations in posterior parietal cortex during perceptual decision-making

A recent line of work has found remarkable success in relating perceptual decision-making and the spiking activity in the macaque lateral intraparietal area (LIP). In this review, we focus on questions about the neural computations in LIP that are not answered by demonstrations of neural correlates of psychological processes. We highlight three areas of limitations in our current understanding of the precise neural computations that might underlie neural correlates of decisions: (1) empirical questions not yet answered by existing data; (2) implementation issues related to how neural circuits could actually implement the mechanisms suggested by both physiology and psychology; and (3) ecological constraints related to the use of well-controlled laboratory tasks and whether they provide an accurate window on sensorimotor computation. These issues motivate the adoption of a more general “encoding-decoding framework” that will be fruitful for more detailed contemplation of how neural computations in LIP relate to the formation of perceptual decisions.
Response of embryonic rat hippocampal neurons in culture to neurotrophin-3, brain-derived neurotrophic factor and basic fibroblast growth factor.

Abstract Primary cultures of rat hippocampal cells have been used to evaluate trophic effects of neurotrophin-3, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, nerve growth factor, and basic fibroblast growth factor. There was little survival in cultures prepared from embryonic day 17 embryos and grown in defined medium without growth factors. Addition of basic fibroblast growth factor produced a massive increase in the number of neurons present in the cultures seven days after plating. This action reflected proliferation of neuronal precursor cells rather than increased survival of initially plated neurons. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor was ineffective under these conditions, whereas neurotrophin-3 produced a very small, but statistically significant increase in neuronal survival in the range of 20%. However, hippocampal neurons were responsive to brain-derived neurotrophic factor and neurotrophin-3 as demonstrated under culture conditions, resulting in survival in absence of the neurotrophins. Acute administration of brain-derived neurotrophic factor and neurotrophin-3 to hippocampal cultures grown at high density stimulated the hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositol, a response earlier shown to be mediated by tyrosine receptor kinase neurotrophin receptors. Furthermore, when such cultures were grown in presence of neurotrophin-3 rates of glutamate and GABA uptake were increased. In contrast to the findings obtained in cultures of embryonic day 17, cultures prepared from embryonic day 14 or 15 animals were viable in absence of exogenous growth factors. The specific neurotrophin receptor inhibitor, K-252b reduced survival in these cultures and this effect was partly overcome by exogenous neurotrophin-3. Our findings suggest that hippocampal neuron survival at early embryonic stages may involve paracrine neurotrophin mechanisms, whereas the survival of hippocampal neurons of embryonic day 17 is not markedly enhanced by brain-derived neurotrophic factor or neurotrophin-3. However, at this embryonic stage there is a functional response to both neurotrophins as made evident by the activation of tyrosine kinase receptor-linked signal transduction mechanisms and by the stimulation of transmitter-specific differentiation.
ACETYLCHOLINE FORMATION IN LOBSTER SENSORY AXONS.

Abstract 1. 1. The concentration of choline acetylase (acetyl-CoA: choline O-acetyltransferase, EC 2.3.1.6) in the nerve fibers of the walking leg of the lobster has been determined. In sensory bundles, dissected from the whole nerve trunk, the activity of the enzyme was found to be on the average 2 μm/g wet wt./h; the values of the whole nerve' trunk were similar. 2. 2. The sensory bundle is formed by approx. 800 axons, each about 5 μ in diameter, estimated on the basis of photomicrographs; the total surface area per g nerve is therefore approx. 400 cm2. Referred to cm3/sec the enzyme activity amounts to 1.5·10−6 μm of acetylcholine formed. 3. 3. Recent information on the concentration of acetylcholinesterase (acetylcholine acetyl-hydrolase, EC 3.1.1.7) in lobster nerves per unit time and surface area permits an estimate of the amount of acetylcholine which may be hydrolyzed per cm2. On this basis the amount of acetylcholine formed in the sensory axons would be adequate for more than 400 000 impulses/h. 4. 4. The objection was raised to the proposal role of acetylcholine in conduction, that the concentration of choline acetylase in sensory fibers is too low to be compatible with the theory. This difficulty has now been eliminated.
Stability of fluid in a rectangular enclosure by spectral method

Abstract The hydrodynamic stability of Rayleigh convection in a rectangular cavity is studied numerically. The calculation assumes that the Boussinesq fluid motion is two-dimensional. The characteristic value equations are solved by a Chebyshev spectral method. Care must be taken when obtaining the equivalent algebraic eigenproblem to avoid spurious roots and inaccurate results. Critical Rayleigh numbers are determined for various aspect ratios.
φ4 on F4: Numerical results

Abstract In this paper we present results from numerically simulating the scalar sector of the minimal standard model on an F 4 lattice. This lattice obeys Lorentz invariance to a higher degree than hypercubic lattices previously used in this context. The major result of our study is that if one is willing to tolerate cutoff effects up to about 3% in the W L -W L scattering cross section, the upper bound on the mass of the Higgs boson in the simplest F 4 model is 590 GeV with an error of about 60 GeV.
Sampling and the abstraction of knowledge in the auditing profession: An extended institutional theory perspective

Abstract Statistical sampling has long been interpreted as a technical means for enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of independent audits. This article subjects this interpretation to closer scrutiny from the perspective of institutional theory and the sociology of the professions. The article examines the role of statistical sampling as a social phenomenon complicit in modifying and controlling the accounting profession's abstract system of knowledge. In so doing, the discussion provides a more thorough understanding of the roles of sampling in the auditing profession, and it extends the institutional theory perspective by examining the role of group interest in the institutionalization process.
Test of the Linear-No Threshold Theory of Radiation Carcinogenesis for Inhaled Radon Decay Products

Data on lung cancer mortality rates vs. average radon concentration in homes for 1,601 U.S. counties are used to test the linear-no threshold theory. The widely recognized problems with ecological studies, as applied to this work, are addressed extensively. With or without corrections for variations in smoking prevalence, there is a strong tendency for lung cancer rates to decrease with increasing radon exposure, in sharp contrast to the increase expected from the theory. The discrepancy in slope is about 20 standard deviations. It is shown that uncertainties in lung cancer rates, radon exposures, and smoking prevalence are not important and that confounding by 54 socioeconomic factors, by geography, and by altitude and climate can explain only a small fraction of the discrepancy. Effects of known radon-smoking prevalence correlations-rural people have higher radon levels and smoke less than urban people, and smokers are exposed to less radon than non-smokers-are calculated and found to be trivial. In spite of extensive efforts, no potential explanation for the discrepancy other than failure of the linear-no threshold theory for carcinogenesis from inhaled radon decay products could be found. 46 refs., 2 figs., 7 tabs.
The United Nations as a publisher

Abstract United Nations publications and the related policies build on those of the League of Nations. The United Nations goals are to provide data to an international audience and the United Nations does this through some 4,000 backlisted titles and 400 new titles per year; some titles are for the general public, most are for specialized audiences. The United Nations provides printing of parliamentary (e.g., General Assembly) documents, studies, reports, and commercial items at New York City's largest printing plant, at other locations, and by contractual printing. The United Nations Publications Board controls policies and procedures; commercial operations are undertaken through co-publications and direct sales. Production, distribution, and sales all occur from several countries, and depository libraries and other libraries are the main “public” recipients. Operations are similar among the United Nations and specialized agencies, but the United Nations is not exactly comparable to a commercial publisher or a university press.
Failure of transfusion of hemophilic plasma to induce abnormalities of hemostatic mechanism in normal individuals.

SummaryIn an attempt to demonstrate the presence of a circulating anticoagulant in hemophilia, normal human subjects were transfused with compatible hemophilic plasma. No effect on the hemostatic mechanism of normal subjects was demonstrated following the transfusion, nor did the ability of the recipient's plasma to correct the clotting defect of known hemophilic plasma change following this procedure.
Structural origin of specific eigenvalues in chemical graphs of planar molecules molecular orbital functional groups

Within the framework of a functional group-like approach, the structural origin of eigenvalues ± 2, ± 1, ± √ 3, ± √ 2, and 0 are detailed. Methods for recognizing their occurrence in molecular graphs without evaluating the complete eigenspectrum are given. A graph theoretical method for evaluating the corresponding eigenvectors for these eigenvalues is elaborated. Collections of subspectral structures are tabulated. Construction of whole series of structurally related molecular graphs having the same eigenvalue can be frequently be accomplished once a given eigenvector pattern is recognized.
Observations on the Ecology of Epinepheline and Lutjanid Fishes of the Society Islands, with Emphasis on Food Habits

Abstract Food habits and habitats frequented by several groupers (Epinephelinae) and snappers (Lutjanidae) of the Society Islands were investigated preliminary to the introduction into Hawaiian waters from French Oceania of selected inshore marine fishes of food and sport-fishing value. Fifteen species of groupers and 14 snappers which do not occur in the Hawaiian chain were collected in Tahiti and Moorea. Stomach contents of 1,305 specimens of 16 species were examined. Of these, 1,131 were from the snapper, Lutjanus vaigiensis, and the two groupers, Epinephelus merra and Cephalopholis argus, these three species being the most important market fishes of these two groups in Tahiti. E. merra is common in lagoons, and about two-thirds of the specimens had fed on benthic crustaceans (principally crabs) and the rest mostly on fishes. During the southern summer, however, when juvenile fishes were abundant on the reefs, fish made up three-fourths of the diet. C. argus is the dominant carnivorous fish on outer re...
The effect of web interface features on consumer online purchase intentions

Abstract Corporations spend millions of dollars a year creating and maintaining corporate websites, yet many of these sites fail to reach the organization's goals [Freemantle D. The psychology of crm. Int J Cust Relatsh Manag 2002; http://www.superboss.co.uk/articles2main.htm ]. Recent research suggests that these failures reflect poor website design, yet this research lacks the specificity necessary to provide practical recommendations for improving site performance [Rosen EE, Purinton E. Website design: viewing the web as a cognitive landscape. J Bus Res 2004; 57:787–94]. This study fills that gap by providing specific recommendations regarding website design elements that generate positive managerial outcomes. First, the study tests a wide range of design elements to determine those that provide human elements and computer elements. Next, these elements are linked through intermediaries using the uses and gratifications theory, technology acceptance model, and the concept of flow to explain purchase intentions and intentions to revisit the site.
Stress hyperglycemia and the adrenergic regulation of pancreatic hormones in hypoxia

Stress hyperglycemia occurs in normal and chronically hypoxemic dogs when PaO2's are acutely lowered below 30 torr. Several factors are thought to contribute to the rise in blood glucose. The initial fall in PaO2 activates the sympathetic nervous system, stimulating alpha and beta adrenergic receptors. Because of reduced beta receptor function, alpha receptor effects predominate, promoting glucagon and inhibiting insulin release. The changes in pancreatic hormones in conjunction with the direct effects of hypoxemia and alpha receptor stimulation increase hepatic glycogenolysis. Meanwhile, glucose clearance is decreased because of elevated circulating levels of catecholamines and low insulin concentrations. This combination of events plays a major role in the development of hyperglycemia. Since high blood glucose levels seems to protect the brain and other vital organs at low oxygen tensions, the development of hyperglycemia may represent an important protective mechanism in severely hypoxemic animals, including humans.
Examining emergent niche sports' YouTube exposure through the lens of the psychological continuum model.

The Funk and James (2001, 2006) psychological continuum model (PCM) suggests that sport consumers move from awareness and attraction to attachment and allegiance, and that most sport consumers first learn about sports via reference groups and the media. However, niche sports typically receive less media coverage than mainstream sports (Greenhalgh et al., 2011; Puchan, 2004). These sports must thus seek other avenues of promotion, including the internet and social media, to attract and retain consumers. This study explored the promotional use of online video aggregation site YouTube among five emergent niche sports – slacklining, adventure racing, longboarding, cyclocross and parkour – using the PCM as the theoretical framework. The majority of videos were categorised as awareness and attraction. The findings of this study showed the importance of online videos among niche sport organisations as a tool for providing information about their sports while building and cultivating relationships with consumers.
Thermal Considerations in Modern Spectrograph Design: the Binospec spectrograph

We have completed a detailed thermal analysis of Binospec, a wide-field, multi-slit spectrograph being developed for the 6.5m MMT. The goals of our analysis were to minimize temperature gradients and thermally-induced deflections and achieve a > 24 hr time constant in the spectrograph optics. We consider the effects of conduction, convection, and radiation with the external environment, and model the consequences of opening a spectrograph to insert new slit masks or filters. We study when internal heat sources balance environmental effects, and the local effects of a hot motor in a spectrograph. We review the results of these thermal analyses and draw general conclusions useful to instrument builders.
Nm23 and breast cancer metastasis

The majority of breast cancer patients succumb to metastatic disease. We summarize published and recent research concerning thenm23 gene in breast cancer metastasis. In a murine developmental study, nm23 expression increased with the functional differentiation of the mammary gland in nulliparous and pregnant animals. In human breast cancer, five studies have now demonstrated a significant association between reduced nm23 expression, at the RNA or protein levels, and aggressive tumor behavior. Nm23-negative tumor cells have been observed in comedo ductal carcinoma in situ lesions in two independent studies, indicating that decreases innm23 expression begin prior to actual histologically identifiable invasion. Transfection studies, in which humannm23-H1 cDNA was expressed in the metastatic human MDA-MB-435 breast carcinoma cell line, indicate thatnm23-H1 suppresses in vivo metastatic potential by 50-90%. Finally, our data in melanoma and breast carcinoma transfection systems suggest that the biochemical mechanism of nm23 suppressive activity is likely not due to its nucleoside diphosphate kinase activity, association with GAP proteins, or secretion from cells.
How Random are Regulatory Signals in RNA Replication? Evolutionary Constraints do not Play a Decisive Role

We propose a kinetically-controlled Monte Carlo simulation to investigate the search in configuration space of an RNA molecule which folds onto itself as it is being assembled by sequential incorporation of nucleotides. The results are specialized to the template-directed synthesis of MDV-1RNA performed by Qs-replicase. The theoretical predictions are compared with existing experimental results obtained by pulse-chase electrophoresis. The simulation reproduces satisfactorily the observed variable rate of chain elongation and specifically enables us to establish that the rate of growth out of a pause site is identical to the rate of the refolding event which has induced the pause. Moreover, our results reveal that the extent of functionally-relevant secondary structure does not differ appreciably from that of a randomly generated sequence. This result suggests that the transient structures whose formation induce regulatory signals have not been selected by evolution.
The evolution of the Kapoeta howardite based on fossil track studies

Gas rich Kapoeta howardite composition, evolution, high particle fossil track densities and normal track rich crystals spatial relations
On the trace strength of responses varying in correctness

A paired-associate learning experiment was carried out to see if two presumed measures of memory trace strength, subjective certainty and latency, were able to distinguish between responses varying in their degree of correctness. Evidence was found for three discrete incorrect-response states.
Some oxidations with Cr(V)

Abstract The reactions fo CrOCl − 4 with triphenylphosphines sulfite, aldehydes, 1,3,7-trimethylxanthine (caffeine) and several alcohols have been examied. The reaction with Ph 3 P results in the two-electron reduction of Cr(III) to give Ph 3 PO and Cr 2 Cl 3− 9 . Transfer of the oxo ligand also occurs in the reaction of CrOCl − 4 with sulfite and aldehydes. The oxidation of caffeine did not produce detectable quantities of the corresponding from the reaction of alcohols and aldhydes with CrOCl − 4 are in agreement with those generally attributed to Cr(V) intermediates which are generated durign the oxidation of these substrates by Cr(VI). The enhanced oxidative ability of CrOCl − 4 relative to MoOCl − 4 has also demostrated.
Seasonal and individual variation in gregarine parasite levels in the field crickets Gryllus veletis and G.pennsylvanicus

. 1. Gregarines, debilitating protozoan gut parasites, were monitored in two species of field cricket, Gryllus veletis (Alexander and Bigelow) and G.pennsylvanicus Burmeister, in northern Michigan in 1983 and 1984. 2. Gregarines were found in 31–51% of G.veletis individuals and 50–70% of G.pennsylvanicus. 3. Males were more heavily infected than females in G. veleris, but G.pennsylvanicus males and females had nearly equal infection levels; this disparity resulted in an overall lower infection rate for G. veletis. 4. Both species had fewer gregarines in 1983 than in 1984, possibly due to the adverse effect of drier conditions in 1983 on development of parasite cysts in the soil. 5. Levels of infection were not constant throughout the breeding season for either cricket species. 6. Body size was not correlated with parasite load in either G. veletis or G.pennsylvanicus. 7. Adult age was unrelated to gregarine level in G. veferis, whereas G.pennsylvanicus showed a positive correlation between adult age and parasite load during two non-consecutive weeks of the breeding season.
Correlated evolution of brain regions involved in producing and processing facial expressions in anthropoid primates

Anthropoid primates are distinguished from other mammals by having relatively large primary visual cortices (V1) and complex facial expressions. We present a comparative test of the hypothesis that facial expression processing coevolved with the expansion of V1 in anthropoids. Previously published data were analysed using phylogenetic comparative methods. The results of our study suggest a pattern of correlated evolution linking social group size, facial motor control and cortical visual processing in catarrhines, but not platyrrhines. Catarrhines that live in relatively large social groups tended to have relatively large facial motor nuclei, and relatively large primary visual cortices. We conclude that catarrhine brains are adapted for producing and processing complex facial displays.
Evidence of an immune system to brain communication axis that affects central opioid functions: Muramyl peptides attenuate opiate withdrawal

Muramyl peptides are metabolic breakdown products of bacterial cell walls formed in vivo by the reticuloendothelial system. These agents have a variety of immune modulatory and neuropharmacologic effects. It has previously been demonstrated that a variety of immune modifying agents can induce alterations in certain behaviors elicited by opiates. In the present study we investigate possible reciprocal interactions between muramyl dipeptides (MDPs) and central opioid systems using three different experimental models: (1) naloxone-precipitated withdrawal behavior in morphine-dependent rats; (2) the tail immersion assay for determination of morphine-induced antinociception and (3) rectal temperature measurement of the pyrogenic activity of MDP. It is shown that two derivatives of MDP attenuate the severity of naloxone-precipitated withdrawal and morphine-induced antinociception. In addition, it is demonstrated that the pyrogenic activity of a stearoyl derivative of MDP is altered by chronic morphine treatment. These findings suggest both novel neuropharmacologic properties of muramyl dipeptides, as well as demonstrate that yet another immune modifier interacts with centrally mediated opioid phenomena.
A New Growth Disorder With Marked Acceleration of Skeletal Maturation and Relative Failure to Thrive

A New Growth Disorder With Marked Acceleration of Skeletal Maturation and Relative Failure to Thrive
Endoscopic Sedation in Pediatric Practice

Best sedation practices for pediatric endoscopy involve the consideration of many patient factors, including age, medical history, clinical status, and anxiety level, as well as physician access to anesthesia support. A recent survey of pediatric gastroenterologists suggests that endoscopist-administered intravenous (iv) sedation and anesthesiologist-administered propofol represent common sedation regimens in children. Technical advances in ventilatory monitoring are contributing to increased patient safety for all children undergoing gastrointestinal procedures, regardless of sedation type.
Effect of dextran and dextran sulfate on the structural and rheological properties of model acid milk gels

Abstract Various types of polysaccharides are widely used in cultured dairy products. However, the interaction mechanisms, between milk proteins and these polysaccharides, are not entirely clear. To explore the interactions between uncharged and charged polysaccharides and the caseins, we used a model acid-milk-gel system, which allowed acidification to occur separately from gelation. The effect of adding uncharged dextran (DX; molecular weight ~2.0×10 6 Da) and negatively charged dextran sulfate (DS; molecular weight ~1.4×10 6 Da) to model acid milk gels was studied. Two concentrations (0.075 and 0.5%, wt/wt) of DX or DS were added to cold milk (~0°C) that had been acidified to pH values 4.4, 4.6, 4.8, or 4.9. Acidified milks containing DX or DS were then quiescently heated at the rate of 0.5°C/min to 30°C, which induced gelation, and gels were then held at 30°C for 17 h to facilitate gel development. Dynamic small-amplitude-oscillation rheology and large-deformation (shear) tests were performed. Microstructure of gels was examined by fluorescence microscopy. Gels made with a high concentration of DX gelled at a lower temperature, but after 17 h at 30°C, these gels exhibited lower storage moduli and lower yield-stress values. At pH 4.8 or 4.9 (pH values greater than the isoelectric point of caseins), addition of 0.5% DS to acidified milk resulted in lower gelation temperature. At pH 4.4 (pH values less than the isoelectric point of caseins), addition of 0.5% DS to acidified milk resulted in gels with very high stiffness values. Gels made at pH 4.8 or 4.9 with both concentrations of DS had much lower stiffness and yield-stress values than control gels. Microstructural analysis indicated that gels made at pH 4.4 with the addition of 0.5% DX exhibited large protein strands and pores, whereas gels made with 0.075% DX or the control gels had a finer protein matrix. At higher pH values (>4.4), gels made with 0.5% DX had a finer structure. At all pH values, gels made with 0.5% DS exhibited larger pores than the control gels. This study demonstrated that low concentrations of uncharged DX did not significantly affect the rheological properties of model acid milk gels; high concentrations of DX resulted in earlier gelation, possibly caused by depletion-induced attractions between casein particles, which altered the microstructure and created weaker gels. At pH values
Bronchial Stricture and Hemoptysis in a Woman With Sickle Cell Anemia

A 34-year-old, African-American woman with a history of sickle cell disease and a remote history of asthma presented to the inpatient service with hemoptysis and associated pleuritic chest pain for 24 h. The patient was awakened the morning prior to hospital admission by two episodes of hematemesis/hemoptysis. She noted an increase in coughing, with bloody sputum, and shortness of breath during the day and called emergency medical services. The patient was hospitalized 1 month prior to presentation for acute pain crisis and community-acquired pneumonia (Fig 1). Physical examination on presentation was remarkable for a well-nourished woman in no acute distress. She was afebrile, vital signs were stable, and room air oxygen saturation was 100%. Blood-tinged sputum was noticed in the emergency department. Pulmonary examination revealed rhonchi and decreased breath sounds over the left lung field. The remainder of her examination was otherwise noncontributory at presentation. Laboratory data were significant for a WBC count of 8,200/ L, hemoglobin of 8.0 g/dL (baseline, 7.5 to 10 g/dL), platelets were 223,000/ L, international normalized ratio of 1.2, and partial thromboplastin time of 25.1 s. Posteroanterior/lateral chest radiography demonstrated a multilobar pneumonia with left pleural effusion. She was subsequently admitted to the hospital for pneumonia. The patient continued to have hemoptysis and dyspnea on hospital day 2, and the pulmonary service was consulted. Chest CT was performed to evaluate the bilateral infiltrates (Fig 2), which showed occlusion of the left mainstem bronchus (LMS), atelectasis of the right upper lobe (RUL) and left lower lobe, and extensive mediastinal adenopathy (Fig 2). No pulmonary embolism was noted. The following morning, the patient underwent fiberoptic bronchoscopy (FOB) to investigate the etiology of the bronchial compression. During FOB, massive hemoptysis occurred from an unknown location resulting in respiratory failure. She was intubated to protect her *From the Department of Internal Medicine, University of Florida Health Science Center-Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL. Manuscript received April 22, 2003; revision accepted July 10, 2003. Reproduction of this article is prohibited without written permission from the American College of Chest Physicians (e-mail: permissions@chestnet.org). Correspondence to: Keith J. Robinson, MD, Department of Pulmonology/Critical Care Medicine, University of California, San Diego, 200 W Arbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92103; e-mail: krobinson@ucsd.edu Figure 1. Chest (upright posteroanterior) radiograph demonstrating patchy infiltrate of the left upper lobe, RUL, and right mid-lung fields. Left shift of the trachea from midline is noted. roentgenogram of the month
TNF Alpha Production in Morphine-Treated Human Neural Cells Is NF-κB-Dependent

The cytokine tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) is a key factor in several inflammatory diseases and its levels increase in response to a variety of internal or external stimuli. The regulation of the TNFα promoter is mediated by several transcription factors including the nuclear factor kappa B protein (NF-κB). This study examines the role of NF-κB in the regulation of TNFα production by morphine in microglia. Using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, we demonstrated the presence of morphine receptors in these cells. We next demonstrated the ability of morphine to promote TNFα production and secretion by these cells using a cytokine array assay. Transient transfection experiments led to the identification of the region located between nucleotides −751 and −615 within the TNFα promoter as being responsive to morphine treatment. The DNA sequence of this region contains a motif indicative of a potential NF-κB binding site. The use of a small interfering RNA directed against p65, a subunit of NF-κB, demonstrated that TNFα induction by morphine is NF-κB-dependent. All of the effects of morphine were reversed by the morphine inhibitor, naloxone. These data provide important insights into the effects of morphine on microglia.
An informatic pipeline for managing high-throughput screening experiments and analyzing data from stereochemically diverse libraries

Integration of flexible data-analysis tools with cheminformatics methods is a prerequisite for successful identification and validation of “hits” in high-throughput screening (HTS) campaigns. We have designed, developed, and implemented a suite of robust yet flexible cheminformatics tools to support HTS activities at the Broad Institute, three of which are described herein. The “hit-calling” tool allows a researcher to set a hit threshold that can be varied during downstream analysis. The results from the hit-calling exercise are reported to a database for record keeping and further data analysis. The “cherry-picking” tool enables creation of an optimized list of hits for confirmatory and follow-up assays from an HTS hit list. This tool allows filtering by computed chemical property and by substructure. In addition, similarity searches can be performed on hits of interest and sets of related compounds can be selected. The third tool, an “S/SAR viewer,” has been designed specifically for the Broad Institute’s diversity-oriented synthesis (DOS) collection. The compounds in this collection are rich in chiral centers and the full complement of all possible stereoisomers of a given compound are present in the collection. The S/SAR viewer allows rapid identification of both structure/activity relationships and stereo-structure/activity relationships present in HTS data from the DOS collection. Together, these tools enable the prioritization and analysis of hits from diverse compound collections, and enable informed decisions for follow-up biology and chemistry efforts.
Electrodynamics in a linearly accelerated system

Abstract The frequency of electromagnetic radiation measured by a linearly accelerated observer is discussed from both classical and quantum points of view. It is shown that the Doppler principle is valid only in the eikonal limit. An alternative measure of frequency is considered and its limitations are critically examined.
Conceptual combination and the given/new distinction

Abstract Conceptual combination is the process by which people construct the meaning of a sentence from the meanings of its individual words. In this series of experiments, we study the order in which subjects combine concepts by timing them as they decide whether a sentence is true or false. The experiments demonstrate that combination order is a function of whether the words are Given information (i.e., previously mentioned or presupposed) or New information (conveyed for the first time): Subjects begin with the Given words, relating New terms to these Given meanings. This “Given First” preference is evident for written sentences (Experiments 1, 2) and for spoken ones (Experiments 3–4). It occurs when the sentences are of uniform structure (Experiments 1, 3, and 4) as well as when they are mixed with sentences of different forms (Experiment 2). And it holds no matter whether the given information is signaled externally in a preceding question (Experiments 1–3) or internally through special syntactic constructions (Experiment 4).
Specificity of priming: a cognitive neuroscience perspective

Priming is a nonconscious form of memory that involves a change in a person's ability to identify, produce or classify an item as a result of a previous encounter with that item or a related item. One important question relates to the specificity of priming — the extent to which priming reflects the influence of abstract representations or the retention of specific features of a previous episode. Cognitive neuroscience analyses provide evidence for three types of specificity: stimulus, associative and response. We consider empirical, methodological and conceptual issues that relate to each type of specificity, and suggest a theoretical perspective to help in guiding future research.
Crossed-plane laser tomography: Direct measurement of the flamelet surface normal

Crossed-plane tomography, a new laser tomographic technique, is used to directly measure for the first time the instantaneous flamelet surface orientation in premixed turbulent flames. Simultaneous orthogonal tomographic images provide planar data that can be used to calculated the flamelet surface normal, N. The beam from a pulsed Nd:YAG laser is split and rendered into two orthogonal sheets that intersect along a horizontal line, z. above the burner face. The flame boundaries in the planes of the two laser sheets are recorded simultaneously using digital cameras. The technique relies on the use, of polarization of the laser illumination sheets to block, in the view of one plane, the light scattered from the other plane so that the flame boundary and boundary tangent vector can be evaluated without interference, from the other sheet, N is determined from the images by taking the cross-product of the flame-boundary tangent vectors at those points where the boundaries intersectz. The technique is evaluated by measurements on a laminar flame perturbed by a two-dimensional von Karman vortex street. Data for six turbulent flame conditions are presented and discussed. The probability density function (PDF) of azimuthal angles of N with respect to rotation about the mean normal, , is found to be uniform for all turbulent flames studied, while the surface-weighted PDF of the corresponding polar angles can be fit to the form Ps()=A exp[−(/σ)2] in all cases studied. The mean inverse direction cosine of N with respect to z is calculated, and the burning rate integral, BT, is estimated, BT results are compared with data obtained by an independent method and are found to be in good agreement with those data.
Inheritance of Phytophthora root rot resistance in red raspberry determined by generation means and molecular linkage analysis

Classical and molecular methodologies were used to determine the inheritance of Phytophthora root rot (PRR) resistance in red raspberry. The varieties 'Latham' and 'Titan,' resistant and susceptible, respectively, were used to create F(1), F(2), B(1), B(2), and S(1) populations for analysis. Generational means analysis was used to calculate the components of genetic variation and estimates of narrow and broad sense heritability for the plant disease index and the incidence of petiole lesions. The plant disease index showed additive genetic variation with additional significant interactions, but the incidence of petiole lesions was non-additive. A dominant, two-gene model was shown to be the best fit for the observed segregation ratios when classification for resistance was based on a combination of all criteria measured. Molecular linkage maps were generated from the segregating B(2) population. Linkage maps of both parents were constructed from amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP), Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD), and uncharacterized resistant gene analog polymorphism (RGAP) markers with seven linkage groups each totaling 440 and 370 cM of genetic distance, respectively. An analysis of the distributional extremes of the B(2) population identified several RAPD markers clustered on two linkage groups associated with PRR resistance. QTL analysis identified two similar genomic regions on each map that explained significant percentages of phenotypic variation observed for the disease assessment criteria. Genetic mapping supports the dominant two-gene model developed from generational means analysis. The results reconcile conflicting reports on inheritance of PRR resistance, provide a basis for further investigation of durable resistance to Phytophthora caused diseases, and indicates that recurrent selection is the appropriate approach for the development of new resistant cultivars.
Dissolved Oxygen as an Indicator of Bioavailable Dissolved Organic Carbon in Groundwater

Concentrations of dissolved oxygen (DO) plotted vs. dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in groundwater samples taken from a coastal plain aquifer of South Carolina (SC) showed a statistically significant hyperbolic relationship. In contrast, DO-DOC plots of groundwater samples taken from the eastern San Joaquin Valley of California (CA) showed a random scatter. It was hypothesized that differences in the bioavailability of naturally occurring DOC might contribute to these observations. This hypothesis was examined by comparing nine different biochemical indicators of DOC bioavailability in groundwater sampled from these two systems. Concentrations of DOC, total hydrolysable neutral sugars (THNS), total hydrolysable amino acids (THAA), mole% glycine of THAA, initial bacterial cell counts, bacterial growth rates, and carbon dioxide production/consumption were greater in SC samples relative to CA samples. In contrast, the mole% glucose of THNS and the aromaticity (SUVA(254)) of DOC was greater in CA samples. Each of these indicator parameters were observed to change with depth in the SC system in a manner consistent with active biodegradation. These results are uniformly consistent with the hypothesis that the bioavailability of DOC is greater in SC relative to CA groundwater samples. This, in turn, suggests that the presence/absence of a hyperbolic DO-DOC relationship may be a qualitative indicator of relative DOC bioavailability in groundwater systems.
Risk factors: Anxiety and risk of cardiac events.

Two recent studies published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology report the prognostic significance of anxiety in the development of coronary heart disease in initially healthy adults. These findings are placed in the context of other published reports and highlight the need for future research that includes representative samples of women and minorities using precise assessment tools and careful ascertainment of clinical endpoints.
Distinguishing gramicidin D conformers through two-dimensional infrared spectroscopy of vibrational excitons

Gramicidin D is a short peptide which dimerizes to form helical pores, adopting one of two conformations in the process. These conformations differ primarily in number of residues per turn and the hydrogen-bond registry between rungs of the helix. Using amide I 2D infrared (IR) and FTIR, we have demonstrated that it is possible to distinguish between the different conformers of gramicidin D in solution. We show that the spectra observed for this helical peptide bear no resemblance to the spectra of α- or 310-helices and that while the FTIR spectra appear similar to spectra of β-sheets, 2D IR reveals that the observed resonances arise from vibrational modes unlike those observed in β-sheets. We also present an idealized model which reproduces the experimental data with high fidelity. This model is able to explain the polarization-dependence of the experimental 2D IR data. Using this model, we show the coupling between the rungs of the helix dominates the spectra, and as a consequence of this, the number of residues per turn can greatly influence the amide I spectra of gramicidin D.
Chromatin Condensing Functions of the Linker Histone C-Terminal Domain Are Mediated by Specific Amino Acid Composition and Intrinsic Protein Disorder†

Linker histones bind to the nucleosomes and linker DNA of chromatin fibers, causing changes in linker DNA structure and stabilization of higher order folded and oligomeric chromatin structures. Linker histones affect chromatin structure acting primarily through their ~100 residue C-terminal domain (CTD). We have previously shown that the ability of the linker histone H1° to alter chromatin structure was localized to two discontinuous 24-/25-residue CTD regions (Lu, X., and Hansen, J. C. (2004) J Biol Chem 279, 8701–8707). To determine the biochemical basis for these results, we have characterized chromatin model systems assembled with endogenous mouse somatic H1 isoforms, or recombinant H1° CTD mutants in which the primary sequence has been scrambled, the amino acid composition mutated, or the location of various CTD regions swapped. Our results indicate that specific amino acid composition plays a fundamental role in molecular recognition and function by the H1 CTD. Additionally, these experiments support a new molecular model for CTD function, and provide a biochemical basis for the redundancy observed in H1 isoform knockout experiments in vivo.
Phase transition as a mechanism of DNA opening for replication and transcription

We propose a dynamic model of DNA opening for replication and transcription. Numerical simulations on this model strongly indicate a phase transition mechanism of DNA opening.
Choline ingestion increases the resonance of choline-containing compounds in human brain: An in vivo proton magnetic resonance study

Choline is a crucial intermediate in several clinically relevant neurochemical processes. In this study, choline-containing compounds in human brain (principally phosphocholine, glycero-phosphocholine, and choline) were measured by 1 H-magnetic resonance spectroscopy, before and after the ingestion of 50 mg/kg choline in four normal control subjects. Substantial and remarkably similar increases in the brain choline resonance occurred in each subject, with a nearly two-fold rise in the choline resonance observed 3 hr following choline ingestion (p = 0.008 versus baseline). One subject also received a dose of 200 mg/kg choline, and exhibited a proportionally larger increase in the brain choline resonance. The results are consistent with animal data reporting a rise in choline-containing compounds following choline administration. This is the first study to our knowledge where an oral nutrient has been shown to produce a detectable change in human brain composition in vivo. Studying choline transport and biotransformation in human brain may have relevance to several neuropsychiatric disorders, including affective disorders and dementia.
Emergent reconnection of a transected left ventricular assist device driveline

Abstract Background Recent clinical advances with new mechanical circulatory systems have led to additional strategies in the treatment of end-stage heart failure. The third-generation HeartWare Left Ventricular Device (LVAD) System utilizes a blood pump and a driveline (cable) that exits the patient's skin connecting the implanted pump to an externally worn controller. We report a rare case of a HeartWare LVAD driveline rewiring after accidental (presumed) transection of the driveline system. Case Report A 67-year-old male with a medical history of ischemic cardiomyopathy status post HeartWare LVAD implantation presented to the emergency department (ED) after acute LVAD failure. On the morning of presentation, he attempted to cut the paper tape off of his adult diaper with scissors and accidentally (presumed) and unwitnessed severed the driveline system. The patient immediately went into cardiac arrest and was transported to a regional medical center. On arrival, he exhibited no appreciable vital signs and was subsequently intubated, vascular access was placed, and inotropic support initiated. The emergency physician individually stripped and reconnected the color-coded driveline wires using multiple hemostats, electrical tape, and cardboard, which resulted in regeneration of positive LVAD flows. Why Should an Emergency Physician Be Aware of This? VAD patients will present in extremis typically to the ED with manifestations of pump dysfunction ranging from diminished flows needing fluid management or pump adjustments to full pump failure manifesting as cardiogenic shock, needing rapid resuscitation and transfer to a cardiothoracic surgical unit with on-site VAD-perfusion specialists.
Analytical Dynamics of Complex Motions in a Train Suspension System

Nonlinear dynamical behaviors of a train suspension system with impacts are investigated. The suspension system is described through an impact model with possible stick between a bolster and two wedges. The analytical conditions that reflect the motion mechanisms for the complex motion are given. The mapping structures for periodic and chaotic motions of such a system can be described. The analytical prediction of the complex motions can be conducted from the mapping structure, and numerical simulations for periodic and chaotic motions can be carried out in sequel.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Control of misoriented grains and pinholes in CoSi2 grown on Si(001)

Abstract Two types of growth conditions have been obtained that consistently overcome the formation of epitaxially misoriented grains in CoSi 2 /Si(001). One is by codeposition of Co and Si at Co-rich ratios at a substrate temperature of ∽ 500°C. This method yields films of low resistivity (16 μΩ cm) and low ion channeling minimum yield (χ min ≈ 2%), but the misfit dislocation densities are of the order of 10 5 cm -1 . The second way uses a template method of growth after an epitaxial Si buffer layer. Films grown this way have somewhat higher resistivities than those grown by the first method, but have lower misfit dislocation densities. The strain relief mechanism in these films also appears to be different from that of codeposited films. Pinhole densities in films grown by both methods are below our detection limit of 10 3 cm -2 .
Polygenic sex determination.

What is sex determination? Sex determination is the mechanism by which sexual organisms direct gonad development towards distinct but reproductively compatible outcomes. Molecular signaling cascades in the developing gonad provide instructions to the tissue to develop as male or female (or in some cases hermaphrodite), and these signals can be initiated in different ways. Sex can be determined by environmental cues (such as temperature), or genetically. Genetic sex determination occurs when an inherited difference in genes or chromosomes initiates the sex determination signal, acting as a ‘master switch’ for male or female development.