cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Runaway synaptic modification in models of cortex: implications for Alzheimer's disease

Abstract In models of cortex, the spread of activity along previously strengthened synapses during synaptic modification can result in an exponential growth of a large number of synaptic connections, here termed runaway synaptic modification. Analysis of this phenomenon may provide a theoretical framework for describing the initiation and progression of the cortical neuronal degeneration found in Alzheimer's disease. Here, the dynamics of learning in a cortical model are described, focusing on the exponential growth produced by allowing synaptic transmission at previously modified synapses during learning of a new pattern. It is shown that suppression of synaptic transmission during learning can prevent the strengthening of undesired connections, while allowing desired connections to grow rapidly. However, an imbalance of cortical parameters, or storage of overlapping patterns in excess of capacity, can lead to interference during learning and runaway synaptic modification. This runaway synaptic modification can progress between different regions. These phenomena are discussed with reference to the neuropathological evidence on the initiation and progression of neuronal degeneration in Alzheimer's disease and the behavioral evidence on associated memory deficits.
AG490 influences UCN-01-induced cytotoxicity in Glioma cells in a p53-dependent fashion, correlating with effects on BAX cleavage and BAD phosphorylation

We determined the cytotoxicity of AG490 as a single agent and in combination with 7-hydroxystaurosporine (UCN-01) in a panel of malignant human glioma cell lines. Because p53 has important roles in cell cycle checkpoints, it has been anticipated that modulation of checkpoint pathways should sensitize p53 defective cells while sparing the normal cells. Cell proliferation was determined from dose-response curves. AG490 was effective as a cytotoxic agent alone regardless of p53 status. Combining the Chk1 inhibitor UCN-01 dramatically enhanced the response to AG490 in p53-mutated or deleted glioma cells. An opposite effect was noted in p53-wild type cells, in which UCN-01 and AG490 had antagonistic effects on cell proliferation and viability. We found that AG490 enhanced BAD phosphorylation in p53 wild type glioma cells, which appeared to protect against UCN-01-induced cytotoxicity, whereas AG490 enhanced UCN-01-induced cytotoxicity in p53 defective cell lines by suppression of BAD phosphorylation and induction of BAX and PARP cleavage. These observations highlight the potential for genotype-dependent factors to strongly influence response to signaling-targeted therapies in malignant gliomas and the importance of considering such factors in correlative response analyses for these agents.
Analysis of Diquat and Paraquat by Solid Phase Extraction Directly Coupled with Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometry

Abstract The herbicides diquat and paraquat have been successfully analyzed through a process which combines solid phase extraction (SPE) with Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry. Ion pair interactions are utilized to selectively load the herbicides onto a solid phase extraction disc. A MALDI matrix is then applied and analysis takes place directly from the disc, eliminating the need to elute the sample. This SPE-MALDI combination produced detection limits comparable to those obtained from conventional analysis with U.S. EPA Method 549.1. The SPE-MALDI method was tested on a variety of water samples and found to be suitable for “real world” analysis.
Early experience using calcineurin-free protocol in recipients of high-risk cadaver renal transplants.

The use of calcineurin inhibitors (CNI) is associated with significant nephrotoxicity, especially DGF in recipients of marginal allografts. Acute nephrotoxicity, which occurs in the early period after transplantation, leads to a higher rate of dialysis, and chronic nephrotoxicity may eventually result in graft loss. Avoidance of CNI for a prolonged period de novo after cadaver donor (CD) renal transplantation may facilitate recovery from DGF. Sirolimus (SRL) and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) can be administered in the setting of DGF without exacerbating the impaired renal function after transplantation. To study the efficacy and tolerability of using a CNI-free induction protocol, a SRL-MMF combination plus interleukin-2R: (IL2R) antibody (basiliximab-Simulect) induction was administered to 24 consecutive adult recipients of marginal CD transplants (ie, donor age over 60 years, history of longstanding hypertension or diabetes mellitus, or cold ischemia time over 36 hours).
A combustion synthesis process for synthesizing nanocrystalline zirconia powders

Materials with nanocrystalline features are expected to have improved or unique properties when compared to those of conventional materials. Methods for the practical and economical production of nanoparticles in large quantities are not presently available. A method based on combustion synthesis for preparing nanocrystalline powders was investigated in this work. Yttria-doped zirconia powders with an average crystallite size of 10 nm were synthesized. The characteristics of the powder (e.g., surface area and phase content) were found to depend strongly on the fuel content in the starting mixture and on the ignition temperature used in the process. The method is expected to be suitable for commercial fabrication of nanocrystalline multicomponent oxide ceramic powders.
An Imaging Gene by Environment Interaction (IG×E) Approach to Understanding Youth Antisocial Behavior

Keywords: environmental experience; antisocial behavior; gene–environment; IG×E; imaging gene×environment framework; psychopathology; youth antisocial behavior
Radiosensitive orbital metastasis as presentation of occult colonic adenocarcinoma.

An 82-year-old man presented with progressive right frontal headaches. The patient9s history was significant for benign polyps on surveillance colonoscopy 2 years prior, without high-grade dysplasia or carcinoma. MRI revealed an enhancing lesion arising within the superomedial aspect of the right orbit. Lesion biopsy demonstrated histological appearance and immunophenotype suggestive of colonic adenocarcinoma. Staging positron emission tomography/CT showed visceral metastases and diffuse activity in the posterior rectosigmoid, consistent with metastatic colon cancer. Treatment of the orbital lesion with external beam radiotherapy to 30 Gy resulted in significant palliation of the patient9s headaches. The patient expired 2 months following treatment completion due to disease progression. Orbital metastasis as the initial presentation of an occult colorectal primary lesion is exceedingly rare, and occurred in this patient despite surveillance colonoscopy. Radiotherapy remains an efficacious modality for treatment of orbital metastases.
Planetary Searches Using Optical Astrometric Interferometers

Detection of planets by virtue of their gravitational perturbations of nearby visible stars generally requires relative astrometric accuracies of ∿ 3 x 10-4 arc sec for Jovian planets and ∿ 3 x 10-7 arc sec for terrestrial planets. Two-color optical astrometric interferometers on earth should be capable of ∿ 10-4 arc sec rms accuracy for stars brighter than magnitude 7-10, while small one-color space systems should achieve at least ∿ 10-5 arc sec. Two-color systems permit correction every few milliseconds for the random wavefront tilt due to atmospheric turbulence; the correction is based on the observed offset between the red and blue fringes, and the known atmospheric dispersion. A 3.4-meter baseline interferometer on Mount Wilson has demonstrated ∿ 0.02 arc sec rms fluctuations for 1-second samples.
Dysregulation of astrocyte extracellular signaling in Costello syndrome

Astrocytes produce an assortment of signals that promote neuronal maturation according to a precise developmental timeline. Is this orchestrated timing and signaling altered in human neurodevelopmental disorders? To address this question, the astroglial lineage was investigated in two model systems of a developmental disorder with intellectual disability caused by mutant Harvey rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (HRAS) termed Costello syndrome: mutant HRAS human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and transgenic mice. Human iPSCs derived from patients with Costello syndrome differentiated to astroglia more rapidly in vitro than those derived from wild-type cell lines with normal HRAS, exhibited hyperplasia, and also generated an abundance of extracellular matrix remodeling factors and proteoglycans. Acute treatment with a farnesyl transferase inhibitor and knockdown of the transcription factor SNAI2 reduced expression of several proteoglycans in Costello syndrome iPSC-derived astrocytes. Similarly, mice in which mutant HRAS was expressed selectively in astrocytes exhibited experience-independent increased accumulation of perineuronal net proteoglycans in cortex, as well as increased parvalbumin expression in interneurons, when compared to wild-type mice. Our data indicate that astrocytes expressing mutant HRAS dysregulate cortical maturation during development as shown by abnormal extracellular matrix remodeling and implicate excessive astrocyte-to-neuron signaling as a possible drug target for treating mental impairment and enhancing neuroplasticity.
The risk paradox: use of elective cholecystectomy in older patients is independent of their risk of developing complications.

Background We recently developed and validated a prognostic model that accurately predicts the 2-year risk of emergent gallstone-related hospitalization in older patients presenting with symptomatic gallstones. Study Design We used 100% Texas Medicare data (2000 to 2011) to identify patients aged 66 years and older with an initial episode of symptomatic gallstones not requiring emergency hospitalization. At presentation, we calculated each patient's risk of 2-year gallstone-related emergent hospitalization using the previously validated model. Patients were placed into the following risk groups based on model estimates: Results In all, 161,568 patients had an episode of symptomatic gallstones. Mean age was 76.5 ± 7.3 years and 59.9% were female. The 2-year risk of gallstone-related hospitalizations increased from 15.9% to 41.5% to 65.2% across risk groups. For the overall cohort, 22.3% in the low-risk group, 20.9% in the moderate-risk group, and 23.2% in the high-risk group underwent elective cholecystectomy in the 2.5 months after the initial symptomatic episode. In patients with no comorbidities, elective cholecystectomy rates decreased from 34.2% in the low-risk group to 26.7% in the high-risk group. Of patients who did not undergo cholecystectomy, only 9.5% were seen by a surgeon in the 2.5 months after the initial episode. Conclusions The risk of recurrent acute biliary symptoms requiring hospitalization has no influence, or even a paradoxical negative influence, on the decision to perform elective cholecystectomy after an initial symptomatic episode. Translation of the risk prediction model into clinical practice can better align treatment with risk and improve outcomes in older patients with symptomatic gallstones.
Properties of a System of Public Idiotypes of Lupus Autoantibodies

We can conclude from the properties of the Id-16/6 system that a relatively restricted group of B cell clones is activated in systemic lupus erythematosus. Whether this is a property of the immunogenic stimulus that causes the diseases (if indeed there is one), or whether the observations are due to an idiotypic network that favors the selection of Id-16/6-expressing B cells is not known. These alternatives are under investigation. Apart from these theoretical considerations, the high frequency of Id-16/6(+) autoantibodies, including pathogenic autoantibodies, in systemic lupus erythematosus may point to targets amenable to the specific therapy of the disease.
Microrheology, stress fluctuations, and active behavior of living cells.

We report the first measurements of the intrinsic strain fluctuations of living cells using a recently developed tracer correlation technique along with a theoretical framework for interpreting such data in heterogeneous media with nonthermal driving. The fluctuations' spatial and temporal correlations indicate that the cytoskeleton can be treated as a course-grained continuum with power-law rheology, driven by a spatially random stress tensor field. Combined with recent cell rheology results, our data imply that intracellular stress fluctuations have a nearly $1/{\ensuremath{\omega}}^{2}$ power spectrum, as expected for a continuum with a slowly evolving internal prestress.
The concept of homology as a basis for evaluating developmental mechanisms: exploring selective attention across the life-span.

Research with human infants as well as non-human animal embryos and infants has consistently demonstrated the benefits of intersensory redundancy for perceptual learning and memory for redundantly specified information during early development. Studies of infant affect discrimination, face discrimination, numerical discrimination, sequence detection, abstract rule learning, and word comprehension and segmentation have all shown that intersensory redundancy promotes earlier detection of these properties when compared to unimodal expo- sure to the same properties. Here we explore the idea that such intersensory facilitation is evident across the life-span and that this continuity is an example of a developmental behavioral homology. We present evidence that intersensory facilitation is most apparent during early phases of learning for a variety of tasks, regardless of developmental level, including domains that are novel or tasks that require discrimination of fine detail or speeded responses. Under these conditions, infants, children, and adults all show intersensory facilitation, sug- gesting a developmental homology. We discuss the challenge and propose strate- gies for establishing appropriate guidelines for identifying developmental behavioral homologies. We conclude that evaluating the extent to which continui- ties observed across development are homologous can contribute to a better un- derstanding of the processes of development. 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol
School transitions: Preventive intervention following an elementary school closing†

Entering a new school represents a critical developmental transition, since children need to overcome apprehension of peer rejection and difficulties in ascertaining new school policies. The present study investigated a peer-led preventive orientation program which was aimed at allaying detrimental effects of a forced school closing. Students transferring into a public elementary school were matched by grade and sex with students currently enrolled at the public school (C2). The group of transfer students were then randomly assigned to either the orientation program (E) or no program (C1). The two-day peer-led orientation program occurred one week prior to the beginning of school. Following the intervention, the E group was superior to both the C1 and C2 groups in terms of self-esteem related to peer relationships, knowledge of school rules, and teacher conduct ratings. The project indicates how community psychologists can respond to a crisis in the community (i.e., the forced closing of an elementary school) by developing preventive interventions.
High-resolution chemical shift imaging for the assessment of intramuscular lipids.

A new high-resolution MRSI technique was used to measure extracellular lipids (EMCL), intracellular lipids (IMCL), and total muscle lipids (TML). The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility and reproducibility of this new technique. This study also compared results obtained from small regions of interest (ROIs) vs. a summation of a large ROI of voxels representing the total soleus or anterior tibialis (TA) muscles. Eight volunteers were studied with the use of a conventional single-slice MR spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) sequence run with the following parameters: TR = 145.9 ms, FOV = 16 cm, slice thickness = 1 cm, and 64 × 64 phase encodes. EMCL, IMCL, and TML values from the small ROIs proved to be reproducible (coefficient of variation (CV) = 7.8–13.8% for soleus, and 8.2–18% for TA). EMCL, IMCL, and TML values from the larger soleus ROI proved to be reproducible (CV = 7.3–16.1%), whereas the larger TA ROIs were less reproducible. The small and larger soleus ROIs produced statistically equivalent measures of EMCL and TML per unit area. However, the small soleus and TA ROIs showed a trend toward yielding different IMCL contents as compared to the larger ROIs. This study demonstrates that high-resolution 1H MRSI of the calf muscle is feasible and can reproducibly measure EMCL, IMCL, and TML. Magn Reson Med 57:848–858, 2007. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
A state-based approach to the representation and recognition of gesture

A state-based technique for the representation and recognition of gesture is presented. We define a gesture to be a sequence of states in a measurement or configuration space. For a given gesture, these states are used to capture both the repeatability and variability evidenced in a training set of example trajectories. Using techniques for computing a prototype trajectory of an ensemble of trajectories, we develop methods for defining configuration states along the prototype and for recognizing gestures from an unsegmented, continuous stream of sensor data. The approach is illustrated by application to a range of gesture-related sensory data: the two-dimensional movements of a mouse input device, the movement of the hand measured by a magnetic spatial position and orientation sensor, and, lastly, the changing eigenvector projection coefficients computed from an image sequence.
The Hemipenes of Some Snakes of the Semifossorial Genus Atractus, with Comments on Variation in the Genus

The hemipenes of seven species of Atractus (Atractus emigdioi, Atractus major, Atractus mariselae, Atractus poeppigi, Atractus torquatus, Atractus univittatus, and Atractus ventrimaculatus) are described. Hemipenial morphology in this poorly known genus of snakes is found to be particularly variable among the species studied. Additionally, the primitive unicapitate hemipenal condition is more widespread among Atractus than was previously thought. Given the drastic variation in hemipenal morphology observed in Atractus, it is likely that characters derived from studying this organ may prove especially useful for future work on intrageneric relationships among members of this genus.
Effect of Quadriceps Femoris Muscle Stretch on Knee Extension Torque

Peak and angle specific knee extension torques produced after a quadriceps femoris muscle stretch and after a 15-second rest were compared to determine the effect of stretch on knee extension torque. Twenty healthy subjects performed eight maximum voluntary knee extensions at 90 degrees/sec under each condition. Although peak torque and torques at 15, 30, 45, and 60 degrees from full extension were measured, knee extension torque was only significantly greater (p less than .02) at 60 degrees of knee flexion after quadriceps femoris muscle stretch. The absolute difference, which was only a mean 4.9 N X m (3.6 ft-lb), was not substantial. When quadriceps femoris muscle stretch is a consequence of passive knee flexion at 90 degrees/sec, knee extension torque is apparently facilitated only during the initial part of the knee extension movement. Therefore, in healthy patients, a muscle stretch, such as used in this study, is probably of little therapeutic value.
Thermal Effects During CO2 Leakage from a Geologic Storage Reservoir

Leakage of CO2 from a geologic storage reservoir along an idealized fault zone has been simulated, including transitions between supercritical, liquid, and gaseous CO2. We find strong non-isothermal effects and nonmonotonic leakage behavior, due to an interplay between multiphase flow and heat transfer effects.
Step-by-step lifestyle changes that can improve urologic health in men, part II: What do I tell my patients?

Heart-healthy recommendations have been tantamount to prostate-healthy recommendations, and there may even be a relationship between the two conditions. Clinicians need to provide a simplistic and realistic set of lifestyle changes to men not only to attempt to reduce prostate cancer risk and mortality, but also to attempt to reduce the more important statistic known as "all-cause mortality." A list of recommendations or steps for men are provided in two articles (parts I and II) of this issue to assist the clinician and patient in their discussion of practical changes not only in the short-term, but also in order to provide some type of tangible long-term benefit for the man concerned about urologic conditions such as prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or erectile dysfunction (ED).
Have the boundaries of the 'grey zone' of perinatal resuscitation changed for extremely preterm infants over 20 years?

Aim To determine the boundaries of the grey zone of discretionary resuscitation over the past 20 years. Background As the likelihood of survival improves over time, the BW- and GA-specific boundaries of discretionary nonresuscitation should fall. Hypothesis Between 1988 and 2008 reductions in BW- and GA-specific mortality would drive a parallel reduction in BW and GA boundaries of discretionary resuscitation. Methods We determined the likelihood of resuscitation and survival to NICU discharge for all infants born <700 g or <26 gestational weeks from 1988 to 2008. In addition, for 1988, 1993, 1998, 2003 and 2008, we determined the BW and GA for the 10 smallest infants who were resuscitated, and the 10 largest infants who were not resuscitated. We excluded any infant born with congenital anomaly. Results Mortality fell from 80% in 1988 to 28% in 2008, and as expected, the percentage who were resuscitated rose from 63% in 1988–93 to 95% in 2004–2008. However, unexpectedly, over the 20-year study period, the smallest infants who were resuscitated despite extreme immaturity did not change (450–550 g and 23–24 weeks) and the largest infants not resuscitated did not change (600–700 g and 23–24 weeks. Conclusion Neither the BW nor GA boundaries of the grey zone of discretionary resuscitation have fallen over the past 20 years. Factors guiding resuscitation at the border of viability are complex and incompletely understood.
Four-year calibration stability of the EasyOne portable spirometer.

BACKGROUND: Clinical practice guidelines recommend daily spirometer calibration checks and weekly linearity checks. The long-term stability of the volume and flow accuracy of a specific model of spirometer should be carefully characterized before modification of the frequency of calibration checks is considered for that model of spirometer. METHODS: The EasyOne ultrasonic flow-sensing spirometer was chosen for use by the clinical centers at the 2002 inception of the World Trade Center Worker and Volunteer Medical Screening Program. The screening program quality-control procedure required that the expiratory and inspiratory volume accuracy of each spirometer be checked every day of testing, and the flow accuracy (linearity) checked every week. The calibration check results were transferred to a central database for summary. RESULTS: Over 5,000 calibration-check results (4,109 single-speed and 1,189 three-speed) were accumulated from a total of 34 spirometers during the period February 2003 through March 2007. The mean single-speed calibration errors (and 5th–95th percentiles) were −2 mL (−80 to 70 mL) for exhalation and −10 mL (−80 to 60 mL) for inhalation. 98% of the exhalation and 97% of the inhalation calibration checks were accurate within 3.0%. There was no evidence of significant non-linearity according to the results of the 3-speed calibration checks (mean errors of −3, −5, and −6 mL at each speed). CONCLUSIONS: The EasyOne retained inhalation and exhalation volume accuracy of better than 3% for at least 4 years. Routine multiple-speed volume calibration checks may not be necessary with the EasyOne. The acceptability and repeatability of patient efforts should be the primary focus of quality-assurance programs with spirometers that have been demonstrated to remain accurate for long periods.
EFFECT OF CALIBRATION PROCEDURES ON ACCURACY AND PRECISION OF AUTOMATED KJELDAHL NITROGEN ANALYSIS IN SOME FORMULATED FOODS

The Technicon AutoAnalyzer total nitrogen system was studied to determine some of the limitations and special modifications of the method that pertain to the analysis of formulated foods with one or more high protein ingredients. Assorted instant breakfasts and meat analogs were used as test products. Specifically, the effects of composition of calibration standards, heat of continuous digestion, and nitrogen concentration on the agreement between AutoAnalyzer and manual macro-Kjeldahl were studied. Resistance of particular protein types to continuous digestion did not constitute a major limiting factor in the precision and reproducibility of the automated method, so that fixed temperatures could be used for diverse proteins. Standard deviations from 0.21–0.47% protein were obtained with the AutoAnalyzer for 5–8 replicates of several different food products compared to about 0.22–0.37% for manual Kieldahls. Of more imuortance than qualitative composition of standards was the maintenance of a narrow- range of concentration (100 ppm N) for sample solutions and calibration with dual standards corresponding to the lower and upper limits of the concentration range. Better accuracy and reproducibility were achieved with calibration standards prepared from dispersible or soluble ingredients that formed stable, homogeneous acid mixtures. Although the method is not recommended as the best means of obtaining accurate nutritional composition data for formulated foods, the automated method may be used for less demanding applications, including rough proximate analyses.
Speech—"the overlaid function"?

(1938). Speech—'the overlaid function'? Quarterly Journal of Speech: Vol. 24, No. 1, pp. 11-16.
Community, Mega, and Goldilocks Banks in U.S. History

Three types of banks, community (small, relationship-based), mega (very large, transaction-based), and goldilocks (middling, mix of relationship and transaction-based) are surveyed throughout U.S. banking history. Megabanks are relatively new and while they pose threats to macroeconomic stability they are not strictly necessary for economic growth. Economies of scale have been found in some recent studies but they appear to include underpriced government insurance and rewards for bad behavior (profits > penalties). Regulators should encourage community and, especially, goldilocks banks by reducing/eliminating subsidies to megabanks.
Integration of 3D Printed and Micropatterned Polycaprolactone Scaffolds for Guidance of Oriented Collagenous Tissue Formation In Vivo

Scaffold design incorporating multiscale cues for clinically relevant, aligned tissue regeneration has potential to improve structural and functional integrity of multitissue interfaces. The objective of this preclinical study is to develop poly(e-caprolactone) (PCL) scaffolds with mesoscale and microscale architectural cues specific to human ligament progenitor cells and assess their ability to form aligned bone-ligament-cementum complexes in vivo. PCL scaffolds are designed to integrate a 3D printed bone region with a micropatterned PCL thin film consisting of grooved pillars. The patterned film region is seeded with human ligament cells, fibroblasts transduced with bone morphogenetic protein-7 genes seeded within the bone region, and a tooth dentin segment positioned on the ligament region prior to subcutaneous implantation into a murine model. Results indicate increased tissue alignment in vivo using micropatterned PCL films, compared to random-porous PCL. At week 6, 30 μm groove depth significantly enhances oriented collagen fiber thickness, overall cell alignment, and nuclear elongation relative to 10 μm groove depth. This study demonstrates for the first time that scaffolds with combined hierarchical mesoscale and microscale features can align cells in vivo for oral tissue repair with potential for improving the regenerative response of other bone-ligament complexes.
Excess Thermodynamic Properties of Nanophase Titanium Dioxide Prepared by Chemical and Physical Methods

The excess enthalpy and excess heat capacity of nanophase TiO2 prepared by a chemically-derived process and by inert gas condensation have been measured using differential scanning calorimetry. In comparison to the chemically-derived samples, the excess enthalpy of the inert gas condensea samples is significantly larger, perhaps due to the presence of intragranular planar defects that accommodate oxygen deficiency. Significant extraneous contributions from planar defects, lattice strain, phase transformation, oxidation, or sintering have been ruled out for the chemically-derived samples. A grain boundary enthalpy of 13–1.6 J/m2 in the temperature range 600–1000°C is obtained from scanning measurements. However, the data also indicate a grain size and/or temperature dependence of the grain boundary enthalpy.
Interactive regulation of grass yield and chemical properties by defoliation, a salivary chemical, and inorganic nutrition.

Clones of 2 C4 grass species, Sprobolus ioclados and S. pyramidalis, were obtained from more and less heavily grazed grasslands, respectively, in Tanzania's Serengeti National Park. Plants were grown in a factorial experiment to determine the effects of severe defoliation, nutrient limitation, and a salivary chemical (thiamine) on plant growth, nitrogen content, and non-structural carbohydrate content. The experimental design included: (1) species; (2) clipping, with plants either unclipped or clipped weekly to a height of 5 cm; (3) 0.2 ml of distilled water of 0.2 ml of 10 ppb aqueous thiamine sprayed on plants from an atomizer after clipping and identical treatments at the same time to unclipped plants; (4) phosphorus (P) at 0.2 or 1 mM; (5) nitrogen (N) at 3 or 15 mM. Clipping was the major variable affecting plant growth. Total and litter yields were reduced to half and residual plant yield was reduced to 30% of the values for unclipped plants. Clipping interacted strongly with other variables since they commonly had minor effects on clipped plants and major effects on unclipped plants. Exceptions to this generalization were generally due to better performance by S. ioclados under clipping. Compared to lower treatment levels, higher treatment levels promoted total yield of unclipped plants by 52% for N, 43% for thiamine, and 33% for P. In general, thiamine had greater effects than P but lesser effects than N. Thiamine promoted yield and modified the chemical balance of plants by promoting carbohydrate (CHO) concentrations and reducing N concentrations. N and P deficiencies promoted CHO accumulation. Clipping promoted the N of leaves and crowns and reduced the N levels in roots. Leaf blade water and N contents were positively correlated with very little scatter. The slope of the line was different for S. ioclados and S. pyramidalis. Leaf blade water and CHO contents were negatively related but there was more scatter and the species could not be distinguished. The species from more heavily grazed grasslands was conspicuously more sensitive to thiamine application. The results indicated that leaf treatment with thiamine, the only likely source of which in natural grasslands is saliva deposited by feeding herbivores, can have major effects on plant yield and metabolic balances at very low application levels. But under defoliation levels as severe as those imposed in this experiment, which reduced above ground plant biomass to a fourth of the level produced by unclipped plants, growth was so strongly limited by defoliation that neither thiamine nor inorganic nutrients affected plant yield residual from clipping. Therefore, whether chemicals such as thiamine that may be introduced onto grass foliage by grazing ungulates and other herbivores will influence the growth of grazed plants will depend upon the grazing intensity associated with the transfer.
Abstract 5429: Cytotoxicity of AOH compounds targeting the interaction of caPCNA and its binding partners in human cancer cells

Previously we reported the identification of an acidic isoform of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (caPCNA) in various cancer cells. Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen (PCNA) interacts with multiple binding partners to carry out vital cellular processes including DNA replication, DNA damage repair, and cell-cycle progression. We hypothesize that caPCNA performs similar functions specifically in cancer cells and, therefore, disrupting interactions of caPCNA with its binding partners will prevent necessary cellular functions, resulting in cytotoxicity to cancer cells. AOH compounds were generated based on a focused computer molecular “docking” search for small molecules that specifically targeted the interaction of caPCNA and its binding partner FEN1. MTT assays suggest that several AOH compounds have promising anti-proliferation effects in human breast and pancreatic cancer cells with EC 50 values as low as or less than 10uM (lead compounds). To further evaluate the cytotoxicity of lead AOH compounds, clonogenic survival assays were performed in MCF-7 cells treated with the small molecules for 2 hours. Results showed that AOH compounds induced cytotoxicity in cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner. The IC50s of these compounds were between 10 to 20uM in MCF-7cells. To investigate the effects of the AOH compounds on DNA replication and the cell cycle, in vitro SV40 DNA replication assays and flow cytometric analysis were performed. The G2/M phase cell population was increased from 8% to 30-80% in MCF-7 cells treated with 25uM AOH compounds for 48 hours, indicating an induction of G2 arrest. AOH compound at 10uM inhibited in vitro DNA replication in malignant cell extracts by 70-80% relative to untreated correspondent cell extracts. Taken together, the potent cytotoxicity of AOH compounds in cancer cells is correlated with their inhibition of DNA replication and induction of cell cycle arrest. The compounds may be useful in the future for clinical cancer chemotherapy as a single anticancer agent and/or in combination with other anti-neoplastic agents. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 5429. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-5429
The Professional Service Provider and the Client: A Different Type of Exchange Relationship

The paper compares and contrasts the exchange process and resulting interactions of a professional and client with a typical commercial exchange relationship. Unique aspects of the relationship are discussed that highlight the need for further research and development of a "client" behavior model.
A New Algorithm of Solving Block Tridiagonal Systems

A new algorithm of solving block tridiagonal systems is proposed,which is based on the special factorization of block tridiagonal matrix.The algorithm includes selective parameter-matrices.Proper selected parameter-matrices make new algorithm higher in precision than the famous Thomas algorithm. When the Thomas algorithm invalidate for some numerical examples,the new algorithm can solve.
Study on inhibitory effect of clenbuterol on proliferation and differentiation of rat embryonic limb bud cells in vitro

Objective To study the effect of clenbuterol on limb bud cells of embryo of rats.Methods The micromass rat embryonic limb bud cell culture was used to determine the effects of clenbuterol on proliferation and differentiation of limb bud cells.Results Both the rate of proliferation and differentiation of rat embryonic limb bud cells were decreased with a dose-effect relation. The concentration of cell survival or proliferation by 50% of the control (IP_(50)) and the inhibitory concentration of the formation of differentiated foci by 50% of the control (ID_(50)) were shown to be 0.34 μg/L and 0.09 μg/L respectively. The rate of IP_(50)/ ID_(50) of clebuterol was 3.78.Conclusion Clenbuterol can inhibite the proliferation and differentiation of limb bud cells of rat embryo.
Use of the antisense oligonucleotide technique in neuropsychopharmacology research

The technique using antisense oligonucleotides has been widely used in the study of specific functions of targeted protein molecules. This technique has enabled us to perform experiments which were previously impossible in the field of neuropsychopharmacology. Some chemically modified oligonucleotide analogues (i.e., phosphorothioate, S-oligo), which are relatively nuclease-resistant, are now available. However, the molecular mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics, and kinetics of cellular uptake of antisense oligonucleotides, have not yet been fully understood. Recently, a number of reports have described the use of antisense oligonucleotides in inhibiting gene expression in the living brain, using intact laboratory animals. In the present article, after a brief discussion of mechanisms of action of antisense oligonucleotides, the methodological aspects of antisense experiments using the "mini osmotic pump" as the oligonucleotide delivery system are reviewed. The choice, design, mode of delivery, and dose are also discussed. In particular, we address the advantages and disadvantages of the antisense oligonucleotide technique as well as the control experiments required. This technique is a powerful method and one of the most important tools in neuropsychopharmacology research.
Determination of nitrogen spin concentration in diamond using double electron-electron resonance

Diamond has been extensively investigated recently due to a wide range of potential applications of nitrogen-vacancy (NV) defect centers existing in a diamond lattice. The applications include magnetometry and quantum information technologies, and long decoherence time $({T}_{2})$ of NV centers is critical for those applications. Although it has been known that ${T}_{2}$ highly depends on the concentration of paramagnetic impurities in diamond, precise measurement of the impurity concentration remains challenging. In the present work we show a method to determine a wide range of the nitrogen concentration $(n)$ in diamond using a wide-band high-frequency electron spin resonance and double electron-electron resonance spectrometer. Moreover, we investigate ${T}_{2}$ of the nitrogen impurities and show the relationship between ${T}_{2}$ and $n$. The method developed here is applicable for various spin systems in solid and implementable in nanoscale magnetic resonance spectroscopy with NV centers to characterize the concentration of the paramagnetic spins within a microscopic volume.
The Implications for Network Structure of Dynamic Feedback Between Influence and Selection

Although network structures shape diffusion and ultimately systemic performance, the underlying dynamics generating different network structures during diffusion are not well understood. To explore these dynamics we present a set of models in terms of a common drive for relational balance – the inclination to align the attributes of one’s network members with one’s own attributes either by adopting the attributes of network members as in the diffusion process or by selecting to interact with similar others. Agent based models show that the models generate modular (clustering) structure for high levels of relational balance. Moreover, when network members have strong influence over one another the transition to modularity is delayed but then drastic, in the extreme creating a phase transition. Thus, the rate of influence amplifies the attractiveness of a particular modularity state of the system.
Temperature Sensitivity of Fruit Fly Gustatory Receptors

Gustatory receptors are a family of transmembrane proteins that have been studied in the context of insect gustatory and olfactory systems. A recent study has found that GR28b, a seven-transmembrane domain protein in the gustatory receptor family in Drosophila melanogaster, may also be involved in temperature sensing. The thermosensitivity of GR28b raises the possibility of using it as a new thermogenetic tool, which could be used to investigate the function of specific neurons and circuits in the brain. To test this idea, we expressed several GR28b isoforms in Xenopus laevis oocytes and measured their relative temperature sensitivities using two-electrode voltage-clamp. Preliminary results show that GR28b exhibits inward sodium current that increases with temperature.
Use of Particulated Juvenile Articular Cartilage Allograft for Osteochondral Lesions of the Wrist.

Background: Articular cartilage injuries are a common injury among young, active patients, and the most appropriate treatment for these injuries remains controversial. A promising new technology in the treatment of high-grade cartilage injuries is particulated juvenile articular cartilage (PJAC) allograft (DeNovo NT, Zimmer, Warsaw, Indiana). This has been shown to be successful in multiple joints including the knee, talus, and elbow. No studies or case reports exist in supporting or discouraging its use in injuries of the wrist, in specific, the scaphoid. Methods: The use of PJAC allograft is described for the treatment of an active 21-year-old male with an Outerbridge Grade IV chondral lesion on the proximal pole of his right scaphoid and right distal radius scaphoid facet who had failed conservative management. The patient was followed clinically and radiographically for 21 months. Results: The patient had return to full sport (jujutsu) and full range-of-motion, both of which represented an improvement...
Harold Hotelling’s Great Idea

Beyond his efforts to establish statistics as a rigorous study and as a tool for modern finance, perhaps Hotelling ’s most lasting legacy was in further developing a notion first formulated by Carl Gauss , the method of maximum likelihood.
Molecular profiling of single circulating tumor cells from lung cancer patients.

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are established cancer biomarkers for the “liquid biopsy” of tumors. Molecular analysis of single CTCs, which recapitulate primary and metastatic tumor biology, remains challenging because current platforms have limited throughput, are expensive, and are not easily translatable to the clinic. Here, we report a massively parallel, multigene-profiling nanoplatform to compartmentalize and analyze hundreds of single CTCs. After high-efficiency magnetic collection of CTC from blood, a single-cell nanowell array performs CTC mutation profiling using modular gene panels. Using this approach, we demonstrated multigene expression profiling of individual CTCs from non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with remarkable sensitivity. Thus, we report a high-throughput, multiplexed strategy for single-cell mutation profiling of individual lung cancer CTCs toward minimally invasive cancer therapy prediction and disease monitoring.
An induction generator based auxiliary power unit for power generation and management system for more electric aircraft

In more electric aircraft (MEA) systems, the adoption of electro-hydraulic actuators (EHAs) and electromechanical actuators (EMAs) requires a power-on-demand electrical power system with regenerative power management capability. This paper proposes an auxiliary power unit (APU) for power generation and management system to supply/absorb the highly dynamic power demand/regeneration from the EHA/EMAs. The proposed system utilizes an open-end winding induction starter/generator (OEWIS/G) to create a separate DC bus for the actuators without adding significant hardware installment to the system. During the entire flight mission, the regenerative power is recovered by one side of the OEWIG terminals; meanwhile, the power delivery to the main DC network of the aircraft electrical power system can be independently controlled by using the same generator through the other side of the terminals. A closed-loop control scheme based on field oriented control and instantaneous power theory is developed to regulate both the main DC bus voltage and the electric actuation DC bus voltage simultaneously in aircraft emergency power mode.
Factors affecting the offering and enrollment of patients on clinical trials in radiation oncology.

e17571 Background: Improvements in cancer treatment require significant patient involvement in research, which may be particularly limited for new technologies such as proton radiation therapy. Stu...
A systematic review of silver diamine fluoride: Effectiveness and application in older adults

Objective This systematic review examines the effectiveness of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) in the management of caries in older adults. Background Silver diamine fluoride has been extensively researched and proven effective for caries prevention and arrest in children. Limited studies support its effectiveness in adult and older adult populations. Materials and methods Multiple databases were searched according to specified inclusion-exclusion criteria. Quality assessment used modified Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine worksheets. Results Three randomised controlled trials were identified that addressed the effectiveness of SDF on root caries in older adults, but none addressed coronal caries. Root caries prevented fraction and arrest rate for SDF were significantly higher than placebo. The prevented fraction for caries prevention for SDF compared to placebo was 71% in a 3-year study and 25% in a 2-year study. The prevented fraction for caries arrest for SDF was 725% greater in a 24-month study and 100% greater than placebo in a 30-month study. No severe adverse effects were observed. Conclusion This systematic review evaluates the use of SDF for both root caries prevention and arrest in older adults. Existing reports of SDF trials support effectiveness in root caries prevention and arrest, remineralization of deep occlusal lesions and treatment of hypersensitive dentin.
Absorption under the Coulomb barrier; Its importance for the scattering and fusion of heavy ions at sub- and near-barrier energies

Discussions are presented concerning the absorptive part W of the optical potential for heavy ion reactions at near- and sub-barrier energies. Particularly, the information obtained from simultaneous analyses of elastic and fusion cross section data is presented, showing that the fusion part of W should have an appreciable value in the Coulomb barrier region, and thus cause a substantial absorption there. This contradicts assumptions made in all coupled-channel calculations performed in the past. Information obtained for the direct reaction part of W, as well as the real potential are also discussed.
Letting the Fascists Speak for Themselves: The Enabling of Authoritarians and the Need for a Partisan Press:

This article analyzes the historical media practices and conditions during the rise of the worst authoritarian movements—namely, fascist Italy and Nazi Germany. It then compares these to contempora...
Retelling Moses's Killing of the Egyptian: Acts 7 in Its Jewish Context:

In his retelling of Moses's killing of the Egyptian in Acts 7:23–29, Luke casts Moses in the image of Jesus, as a rejected deliverer. Most scholarship on Acts 7:23–29 understands the overarching na...