cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Response of preosteoblasts to thermal stress conditioning and osteoinductive growth factors

Conditioning protocols involving mechanical stress independently or with chemical cues such as growth factors (GFs) possess significant potential to enhance bone regeneration. However, utilization of thermal stress conditioning alone or with GFs for bone therapy has been under-investigated. In this study, a preosteoblast cell line (MC3T3-E1) was exposed to treatment with water bath heating (44°C, 4 and 8 min) and osteoinductive GFs (bone morphogenetic protein-2 and transforming growth factor-β1) individually or in combination to investigate whether these stimuli could promote induction of bone-related markers, an angiogenic factor, and heat shock proteins (HSPs). Cells remained viable when heating durations were less than 20 min at 40oC, 16 min at 42oC, and 10 min at 44oC. Increasing heating duration at 44°C, promoted gene expression of HSPs, osteocalcin (OCN), and osteopontin (OPN) at 8 h post-heating (PH). Heating in combination with GFs caused the greatest gene induction of osteoprotegerin (OPG; 6.9- and 1.6-fold induction compared to sham-treated and GF only treated groups, respectively) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF; 16.0- and 1.6-fold compared to sham and GF-only treated groups, respectively) at 8 h PH. Both heating and GFs independently suppressed the matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) gene. GF treatment caused a more significant decrease in MMP-9 protein secretion to non-detectable levels compared to heating alone at 72 h PH. Secretion of OCN, OPN, and OPG increased with the addition of GFs but diminished with heating as measured by ELISA at 72 h PH. These results suggest that conditioning protocols utilizing heating and GFs individually or in combination can induce HSPs, bone-related proteins, and VEGF while also causing downregulation of osteoclastic activity, potentially providing a promising bone therapeutic strategy.
Self-Awareness, Information Utilization, and Social Influence in Cooperative Task Settings

Abstract The relation between self-awareness and the utilization of information in cooperative task settings is investigated. Of particular interest is the impact of self-awareness upon actors' decisions to use differentiating status information in task interactions. The experimental findings indicate that self-awareness decreases the importance of the status information. This suggests that self-awareness inhibits actors' ability to monitor the social environment. Consequently, the differentiating status information assumes less importance in determining social influence within the task group.
On positivity of analytic matrix functions in polydisks

Abstract We study analytic functions of several variables in the Koranyi class such that, when applied to a contractive tuple of doubly commuting matrices, a positive definite matrix results. A criterion is given for a finite set to have the property that every measure supported on the set yields, via an integral formula, a function as above.
Spin echo-endor in ruby☆

Abstract Echo ENDOR spectra in ruby has been studied confirming previous work except for the sign of the change in Q ′ for (two sets of) Al neighbors and an appreciable tilt of the principal axis of the electric field gradient.
Experimental hyperparathyroidism in young cats.

An experimental model for studying increased parathyroid activity was produced in young cats by feeding a diet of beef heart and distilled water. The experimental disease was similar to a naturally occurring metabolic disorder in cats. The nutritional etiology of the naturally occurring disease was established by SCOTT^^ in experiments designed to elucidate the protein requirements of young, growing cats. After feeding kittens a meat diet for 6 to 8 weeks, the cats developed a bone disease which roentgenographically resembled osteogenesis imperfecta of children. In addition, the thyroid and parathyroids were enlarged. Analysis of the diet revealed the calcium: phosphorus ratio (Ca:P) was markedly imbalanced and the iodine content was low. Supplementation with calcium carbonate or calcium gluconate to balance the Ca:P of the diet at 1 :1 and the addition of 100 pg of iodine prevented the development of the skeletal lesions and enlargement of the thyroid. The addition of vitamin A and D to the beef heart diet did not prevent the development of the skeletal lesions. Evaluation of the skeletal lesion in both the naturally occurring and experimental disease has resulted in conflicting interpretations. In the naturally occurring disease of cats the skeletal lesion was interpreted by SCHNELLE~~ and 0~~~16 to represent osteogenesis imperfecta. RISER^^ produced a similar disease experimentally in kittens and considered the bone lesion to be characteristic of juvenile osteoporosis. KROOK et al.14 observed hyperplasia of light chief cells in the parathyroids of 2 kittens with fibrous osteodystrophy fed a beef heart diet for 12 weeks. Although sequential analyses of serum electrolytes were
Accelerating database operators using a network processor

Database management systems (DBMSs) do not take full advantage of modern microarchitectural resources, such as wide-issue out-of-order processor pipelines. Increases in processor clock rate and instruction-level parallelism have left memory accesses as the dominant bottleneck in DBMS execution. Prior research indicates that simultaneous multithreading (SMT) can hide memory access latency from a single thread and improve throughput by increasing the number of outstanding memory accesses. Rather than expend chip area and power on out-of-order execution, as in current SMT processors, we demonstrate the effectiveness of using many simple processor cores, each with hardware support for multiple thread contexts. This paper shows an existing hardware architecture—the network processor—already fits the model for multi-threaded, multi-core execution. Using an Intel IXP2400 network processor, we evaluate the performance of three key database operations and demonstrate improvements of 1.9X to 2.5X when compared to a generalpurpose processor.
Acclimatization of Plantlets from In vitro to the Ambient Environment

Acclimatizing, hardening-off, or conditioning plantlets from the in vitro to the ambient environment can be a challenge that may result in death or damage to a large percentage of micropropagated plants. When grown in the high humidity, low light environment often encountered in vitro, leaves have altered anatomy; poor cuticle development, with low amounts of epicuticular waxes; and the stomatal apparatus functions poorly with stomata remaining open, even in darkness or in stressful conditions. Gradually acclimatizing the plantlets to the ex vitro environment using mist, fog, or high humidity combined with shading will reduce losses. Light levels can be gradually raised and relative humidity gradually lowered as the plantlets grow new leaves and their shoots elongate. Eventually, plants will thrive in ambient conditions. Soil additives, such as mycorrhizal fungi combined careful attention to sanitation will also aid survival. Keywords: acclimatization; microshoots; greenhouse-grown; microcuttings; rooting
Spatially-discriminating trap characterization methods for HEMTs and their application to RF-stressed AlGaN/GaN HEMTs

New constant drain-current deep level optical/transient spectroscopy (CI D -DLTS/DLOS) methods to quantify trap energies and concentrations in AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) are described. These methods are applied to RF stressed HEMTs to characterize the impact of stressing on traps and identified a significant increase in virtual gate related levels.
Faunal Extinctions and Reversals of the Earth's Magnetic Field

A study of 28 deep-sea piston cores from high and low latitudes shows that during the last 2.5 m.y. eight species of Radiolaria became extinct. Prior to their extinction these species were widely distributed and became extinct isochronously throughout their geographic range. Six of the eight species disappeared in close proximity to magnetic reversals recorded in the sediment. Careful determination of the level of disappearance of these six species by counts of over 400,000 individuals shows that the correlation between reversal and extinction levels is indeed striking. The probability of six out of eight species extinctions showing this degree of correlation with reversals by chance is very small. The evidence is strongly suggestive that magnetic reversals either directly or indirectly exert a selective force. Present data on the history of reversal frequency through the Phanerozoic indicate that there were several long intervals with few or no reversals. The best documented are the Permo-Carboniferous reversed interval (Kiamen) and the Cretaceous, primarily Upper Cretaceous normal interval. There are reversals in the uppermost Permian (Tartarian) reported from Russia and in the Maestrichtian reported from the United States. The mass extinctions of marine and land animals at the close of the Paleozoic and Mesozoic coincide in large part with this renewed reversal activity. If the magnetic field reversals exert a selective force then the removal of this force for tens of millions of years may allow the development of many potentially reversal susceptible species that will be vulnerable to the renewal of frequent reversals. The evidence is mounting that Earth's magnetic field may have played an important role in the development of life on this planet.
IT'S A BIRD, IT'S A PLANE, IT'S JUS COGENS!

What we require - like the third bowl of soup in the story of the three bears - is a theory of jus cogens that is Just Right. I do not know if such a theory is possible. I don't even know if one is conceivable. But if someone conceives it, that person deserves the very next International Oscar. To qualify for the award, the theory must answer the following questions: (l) What is the utility of a norm of jus cogens (apart from its rhetorical value as a sort of exclamation point)? (2) How does a purported norm of jus cogens arise? (3) Once one arises, how can international law change it or get rid of it?
de Sitter gravity/Euclidean conformal gravity correspondence

The holographic dual of a gravitational theory around the de Sitter background is argued to be a Euclidean conformal gravity theory in one fewer dimensions. The measure for the holographic theory naturally includes a sum over topologies as well as conformal structures.
Seven-day intensive cognitive therapy for PTSD is as effective as weekly cognitive therapy and more effective than weekly supportive therapy

Cognitive behavioural therapy has been shown to be effective in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) when delivered once or twice a week over several months.1 Cognitive therapies for PTSD are effective in reducing symptoms compared with self-help interventions with minimal therapist contact, but there are few comparisons to credible psychotherapy.1 ,2
Integral equation solution to the guidance and leakage properties of coupled dielectric strip waveguides

The guidance and leakage properties of single and coupled dielectric strip waveguides are analyzed using the dyadic Green's function and integral equation formulation. Galerkin's method is used to solve the integral equation for the dispersion relation. The effects of the geometrical and the electrical parameters on the dispersion relation are investigated. A method for predicting the occurrence of leakage is proposed. The properties of the even and the odd leaky modes are also investigated. Results are compared with previous analysis and are shown to be in good agreement. >
The carbonate and fluoride in surfaces of remineralized enamel.

. Analyses were made of samples of surface enamel collected before and after acid demineralization and after subsequent remineralization in solutions containing calcium and phosphate and various levels of bicarbonate and fluoride ions. Demineralization caused a preferential loss of carbonates. Remineralization was increased by both fluoride and bicarbonate ions. With no bicarbonate in the calcifying solution, 0.25 to 4.0 mM NaF increased mineral formation and thereby caused a relative reduction of its carbonate content. With 0.5 mM NaF (10 ppm F−) and 5, J5, and 25 mM HCO−3, in remineralizing solutions more carbonate was deposited than in the absence of NaF. Five and 15 mM HCO−3 increased, but 25 mM HCO−3 decreased, deposit of fluoride in enamel.
When does the source-channel separation theorem hold?

The meeting point of the two main branches of the Shannon (1948) theory is the joint source-channel coding theorem. This theorem has two parts: a direct part and a converse part. It follows that either reliable transmission is possible by separate source-channel coding or it is not possible at all. This is the reason why the joint source-channel coding theorem is commonly referred to as the separation theorem. We characterize those channels for which the classical statement of the separation theorem holds for every source. We also characterize those sources for which the separation theorem holds for every channel. A conclusion to be drawn from our results is that when dealing with nonstationary probabilistic models, care should be exercised before applying the separation theorem. >
Critical consciousness: current status and future directions.

In this chapter, the authors consider Paulo Freire's construct of critical consciousness (CC) and why it deserves more attention in research and discourse on youth political and civic development. His approach to education and similar ideas by other scholars of liberation aims to foster a critical analysis of society—and one's status within it—using egalitarian, empowering, and interactive methods. The aim is social change as well as learning, which makes these ideas especially relevant to the structural injustice faced by marginalized youth. From their review of these ideas, the authors derive three core CC components: critical reflection, political efficacy, and critical action. They highlight promising research related to these constructs and innovative applied work including youth action-research methodology. Their conclusion offers ideas for closing some of the critical gaps in CC theory and research. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ablative Therapy for Esophageal Dysplasia and Early Malignancy: Focus on RFA

Ablative therapies have been utilized with increasing frequency for the treatment of Barrett's esophagus with and without dysplasia. Multiple modalities are available for topical ablation of the esophagus, but radiofrequency ablation (RFA) remains the most commonly used. There have been significant advances in technique since the introduction of RFA. The aim of this paper is to review the indications, techniques, outcomes, and most common complications following esophageal ablation with RFA.
Malignant melanoma: cross-reacting (common) tumor rejection antigens.

The expression of tumor-associated transplantation antigens (TATA) by 3 different murine melanomas was examined. A comparison was made between different modes of inducing tumor-rejection activity, including immunization with irradiated cells from tissue culture lines, with irradiated cells from solid tumor lines, and with viable cells growing in footpads (followed by amputation). Melanoma cell lines examined included the spontaneous B 16 melanoma, the ultra violet-light-induced K 1735 melanoma, and the dimethyl benzanthracene-induced JB/RH melanoma. The data presented demonstrate that not only do all 3 melanoma lines studied express cell surface antigens sufficient to elicit immune response which result in tumor rejection activity, but that these antigens show cross reactivity among the 3 melanoma lines studied. The specificity of the TATA appears to be restricted to the melanomas, since crossreactivity was not observed with 2 different fibrosarcoma cell lines, or with 2 sarcoma cell lines. In addition, it was found that both the JB/RH and K 1735 melanoma cells release (or shed) cell surface antigens which can elicit tumor rejection activity, and that these antigens can be extracted with aqueous butanol, as has been demonstrated with B 16 melanoma.
Effect of Superficial Heat, Deep Heat, and Active Exercise Warm-up on the Extensibility of the Plantar Flexors

Background and Purpose. Warm-up prior to static stretching enhances muscle extensibility. The relative effectiveness of different modes of warm-up, however, is unknown. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of superficial heat, deep heat, and active exercise warm-up prior to stretching compared with stretching alone on the extensibility of the plantar-flexor muscles. Subjects. Ninety-seven subjects (59 women, 38 men) with limited dorsiflexion range of motion (ROM) were randomly assigned to 1 of 5 groups. Female subjects had a mean age of 27.6 years (SD=7.68, range=17–50), and male subjects had a mean age of 26.8 years (SD=6.87, range=18–48). Methods. The first group (group 1) was a control group and did not perform the stretching protocol. The 4 experimental groups (groups 2–5) performed a stretching protocol 3 days per week for 6 weeks. Group 2 performed the static stretching protocol only; group 3 performed active heel raises before stretching; group 4 received 15 minutes of superficial, moist heat to the plantar-flexor muscles before stretching; and group 5 received continuous ultrasound for 7 minutes before stretching. Dorsiflexion ROM measurements were taken initially and after 2, 4, and 6 weeks. Results. All experimental groups increased active and passive range of motion (AROM and PROM). The mean AROM/PROM differences at 6 weeks were 1.11/1.39 degrees for group 1, 4.10/6.11 degrees for group 2, 4.16/4.21 degrees for group 3, 4.38/4.90 degrees for group 4, and 6.20/7.35 degrees for group 5. The group receiving ultrasound before performing the stretching protocol (group 5) displayed the greatest increase in both AROM (6.20°) and PROM (7.35°). Discussion and Conclusion. Among the modalities tested, the use of ultrasound for 7 minutes prior to stretching may be the most effective for increasing ankle dorsiflexion ROM.
Nursing faculty and use of Web 2.0

The purpose of this study was to assess how nursing faculty at a southeastern university use Web 2.0 tools in their personal lives and for educational purposes. Current Web 2.0 tools are technology, software, and the Internet. Those tools allow users to share, create, collaborate and/or publish web-based content. The use of Web 2.0 shapes the practice of scholarship in education by creating an environment which enhances the teaching/learning process. Limited empirical data, however, exists describing the use of Web 2.0 among nursing faculty. The results of this study at one southeastern university will be used for faculty and curriculum development in order to meet the needs of current and future nurses. This study was conducted as part of a larger multisite study being coordinated by the principal investigators at another university.
Urocortin Advancing the Neurohumoral Hypothesis of Heart Failure

whoreportedthatageneticallyalteredmousemodeldeficient of the receptor to which urocortin II binds wascharacterized by hypertension, whereas infusion of urocortin IIinto cardiomyopathic mice enhanced myocardial performanceand decreased systemic vascular resistance. These works andthose of others have provided increased momentum into basicand clinical research into this humoral system as it relates tocardiovascular disease, especially heart failure (HF).
Strategies for walking on potential energy surfaces using local quadratic approximations

An algorithm for locating stationary points corresponding to local minima and transition states on potential energy surfaces is further analyzed. This method utilizes local gradient and Hessian (i.e., first and second energy derivative) information to generate a series of “steps” that are followed to the desired stationary point. By designing the step sequence to move energetically downhill in all coordinates, local minima can be found. By stepping uphill along one local eigenmode of the Hessian while minimizing the energy along all other modes, one locates transition states. Key elements of this development are more efficient parameterization of the step vector in terms of quantities that permit the direction (i.e., uphill or downhill), and length of the step to be carefully controlled, and implementation of the ability to explore “side channels” as attractive options occur.
Towards a kinetic theory of strings

We study the dynamics of strings by means of a distribution function $f(\mathbf{A},\mathbf{B},\mathbf{x},t)$, defined on a $9+1\mathrm{D}$ phase space, where $\mathbf{A}$ and $\mathbf{B}$ are the correlation vectors of right- and left-moving waves. We derive a transport equation (analogous to a Boltzmann transport equation for particles) that governs the evolution of long strings with Nambu-Goto dynamics, as well as reconnections taken into account. We also derive a system of coupled transport equations (analogous to a Bogoliubov-Born-Green-Kirkwood-Yvon hierarchy for particles) which can simultaneously describe long strings $\stackrel{\texttildelow{}}{f}(\mathbf{A},\mathbf{B},\mathbf{x},t)$ as well as simple loops $\stackrel{\ensuremath{\circ}}{f}(\mathbf{A},\mathbf{B},\mathbf{x},t)$ made out of four correlation vectors. The formalism can be used to study nonlinear dynamics of fundamental strings, $D$-brane strings, or field theory strings. For example, the complicated semiscaling behavior of cosmic strings translates into a simple solution of the transport system at small energy densities.
Human Interferon Regulatory Factor 2 Gene INTRON-EXON ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS OF 5"FLANKING REGION*

Interferon regulatory factor 2 (IRF-2) is a transcriptional regulatory protein that terminates interferon beta expression initiated by interferon regulatory factor 1. In this study, we isolated the genomic DNA for human IRF-2 gene, determined the intron-exon structure of the human IRF-2 gene, mapped the major transcription initiation site, identified a number of potential regulatory elements in the 5'-flanking region, and localized the IRF-2 gene on human chromosome 4. The IRF-2 promoter region contains a CpG island, with several GC boxes, a putative NF-kappa B-binding site, and a CAAT box, but no TATA box. When the promoter region was linked with a heterologous reporter gene, we found that the promoter region is inducible by both interferons (interferon-alpha and -gamma) and interferon regulatory factor 1. The region which induced these inductions was identified as being confined to 40 nucleotides 5' to the major transcriptional initiation site by testing a series of clones with truncated promoter of IRF-2. This region contains elements which are shared with the transcriptional enhancers of other genes including interferon regulatory factor 1, interferon beta, and interferon-inducible genes. These data suggest that interferon regulatory factor 1 not only triggers the activation of the interferon signal transduction pathway, but also may play a role in limiting the duration of this response by activating the transcription of IRF-2.
Recent developments in the implementation of novel designs for early-phase combination studies

ABSTRACT A recent article by Riviere et al. calls for more frequent practical implementation of innovative and efficient approaches in early-phase drug-combination studies. This letter describes our experience in using a novel combination method, one that is overlooked by Riviere et al., in several FDA-approved, ongoing studies at multiple institutions.
Racial Redistricting in a Post-Racial World

With the Supreme Court's construed admonitions against race conscious redistricting, how can we preserve minority electoral opportunities and gains in the wake of Bartlett v. Strickland? What is the impact on future Section 2 litigation and are minority-minority coalition district claims viable as an opportunity to continue the electoral gains made since the passage of the Voting Rights Act? I will discuss a theory for approaching redistricting that prevents jurisdictions from “backsliding” and preserves minority gains without running afoul of constitutional considerations. I will discuss recent U.S. Supreme Court cases, Bartlett, NAMUDNO and others to determine whether and to what extent race conscious redistricting is allowed or should continue.
Alternating wavelet-time finite element method: Modeling and analysis of nonlinear wave propagation in one and two-dimensional waveguides

Abstract In this paper, a novel method named the alternating wavelet-time finite element method (AWT-FEM) is proposed for studying elastic wave propagation in nonlinear structures. An alternating iterative procedure between the time-domain and a wavelet-domain combined with the spectral finite element method (SFEM) is employed to solve wave equations with general nonlinearities. The advantages of the proposed method are (1) the potential to provide high fidelity results for impacts with high frequency content through the use of the spectral finite element method; (2) nonlinear structures with physically realistic boundary conditions can easily be studied by circumventing wrap-around issues associated with Fourier-based methods; (3) the parallel computing compatible framework and the semi-analytical nature of SFEM make it more computationally efficient for nonlinear systems modeled with structural components. Simulations using the proposed method are conducted to demonstrate its applicability to study nonlinear wave propagation in one-dimensional and two-dimensional systems.
The turbulent transition of a supercritical downslope flow: sensitivity to downstream conditions

Blocked, continuously stratified, crest-controlled flows have hydraulically supercritical downslope flow in the lee of a ridge-like obstacle. The downslope flow separates from the obstacle and, depending on conditions further downstream, transitions to a subcritical state. A controlled, stratified overflow and its transition to a subcritical state are investigated here in a set of three-dimensional numerical experiments in which the height of a second, downstream ridge is varied. The downslope flow is associated with an isopycnal and streamline bifurcation, which acts to form a nearly-uniform-density isolating layer and a sharp pycnocline that separates deeper blocked and stratified fluid between the ridges from the flow above. The height of the downstream obstacle is communicated upstream via gravity waves that propagate along the density interface and set the separation depth of the downslope flow. The penetration depth of the downslope flow, its susceptibility to shear instabilities, and the amount of energy dissipated in the turbulent outflow all increase as the height of a downstream ridge, which effectively sets the downstream boundary conditions, is reduced.
A computational study of RXHn X-H bond dissociation enthalpies.

Bond dissociation enthalpies can exhibit dramatic variations resulting from substituent effects. These variations result from changes in electronic structure that accompany bond dissociation. We ha...
Adult Acute Nonlymphocytic Leukemias

For the first two decades, leukemic chemotherapy had little impact on survival. In the past 10 years, however, remission induction therapy has generated complete remissions which last approximately one year in about half to three fourths of those treated, with a seventh in some series alive at 5 years.
The “Flipped Classroom” Model for Teaching in the Intensive Care Unit: Rationale, Practical Considerations, and an Example of Successful Implementation

Introduction:The intensive care unit (ICU) is a dynamic and complex learning environment. The wide range in trainee’s experience, specialty training, fluctuations in patient acuity and volume, limitations in trainee duty hours, and additional responsibilities of the faculty contribute to the challenge in providing a consistent experience with traditional educational strategies. The “flipped classroom” is an educational model with the potential to improve the learning environment. In this paradigm, students gain exposure to new material outside class and then use class time to assimilate the knowledge through problem-solving exercises or discussion. The rationale and pedagogical foundations for the flipped classroom are reviewed, practical considerations are discussed, and an example of successful implementation is provided.Methods:An education curriculum was devised and evaluated prospectively for teaching point-of-care echocardiography to residents rotating in the surgical ICU.Results:Preintervention and...
The Speech Function Characteristic of Economic Metaphor and Business News Reproting

The metaphors appearing in the business news reports as well as the speech functions of the news reports are expounded and alalyzed in order to prove a theory that "metaphoric" is an important stylistic characteristic of business news reports.
Ability of Power Grid Technology in Promoting Low-carbon Development and Benefit Assessment Method

On the basis of development of low-carbon economy,the paper discusses influence of power grid technology on carbon omission reduction and builds low-carbon benefit assessment model and method for grid technology development for the sake of quantitive analysis and comparison of low-carbon benefit of Guangdong Power Grid Corporation,on the basis of which the paper calculates and analyzes low-carbon benefit generated from development of grid technology concerning " the Twelfth Five-Year Plan" of CSG.The result shows that sufficient access,quitting using fossil energy,development of high-efficient transmission and distribution technology and decreasing loss during power transmission not only play vitally important role in implementing low-carbon benefit of power grid but also entirely realize low-carbon development of power industry.
A Study on the Efficiency of Chinese Universities

This paper uses both parametric and non-parametric methods to analyze the efficiency of Chinese universities during 1998—2005.We find that the average technical efficiency of Chinese universities is high,especially for universities of technology,economics and law in the western region.There are global economies of scale and scope in Chinese universities.The degree of economies of scale increases while that of economies of scope decreases over time.The degree of product-specific economies of scale is particularly high for master education,but the degree of product-specific economies of scope is low for master and Ph.D.education.The efficiency scores between our two methods are insignificantly correlated,but the correlation between the efficiency rankings of the two methods is significant at the 10% significance level.External factors and most internal factors significantly affect efficiency.
Adenosine-3',5'-monophosphate: intracellular mediator for methyl xanthine stimulation of gastric secretion.

We postulated that methyl xanthines stimulate hydrochloric acid production in the isolated frog gastric mucosa by inhibiting the phosphodiesterase that destroys adenosine-3′, 5′-monophosphate (cyclic AMP). In support of this theory, several criteria were satisfied. Exogenously supplied cyclic AMP stimulated hydrogen and chloride transport in the spontaneously secreting mucosa and in the non-acid secreting mucosa in a similar fashion as did the methyl xanthines. Methyl xanthines increased the mucosal content of cyclic AMP, and the increase preceded the secretory response; thereafter, the magnitude of these two quantities paralleled each other. A correspondence was found between the concentration of methyl xanthines that affected acid secretion and the concentration of methyl xanthines that affected the tissue content of cyclic AMP. Theophylline was more effective than caffeine in increasing cyclic AMP content, which is in accord with the previously reported differences in their effect on acid secretion and phosphodiesterase activity.
Software Testing: A Craftsman's Approach, Third Edition

The software development world has changed significantly in the past five years. Noteworthy among its many changes is the emergence of the "Unified Modeling Language" (UML) as an industry standard. While thousands of software computer professionals and students continue to rely upon the bestselling first edition of Software Testing, the time has co
Hydrodynamic interactions enhance gelation in dispersions of colloids with short-ranged attraction and long-ranged repulsion

We show that discrete element simulations of colloidal gelation must account for hydrodynamic interactions between suspended particles through investigation of gelation in a dispersion of colloids interacting pair-wise via short-ranged attraction and long-ranged repulsion (SALR). These dynamic simulations juxtapose self-assembly with and without hydrodynamic interactions between the particles. The long-ranged repulsion impacts the relative rates of coagulation and compaction of colloidal aggregates pre-gel, and introduces a surprising sensitivity to the nature of hydrodynamic interactions between the suspended colloids. For such SALR dispersions, we observe a significant disparity between the percolation boundaries predicted by simulations including and neglecting long-ranged hydrodynamic interactions. Additionally, we find that the percolation boundaries predicted by simulations including hydrodynamic interactions agree well with those measured experimentally. Long-ranged repulsion promotes gelation via growth of anisotropic clusters regardless of the hydrodynamic model employed. However, differences between the models, which persist far from the percolation boundary, are apparent via measurements of the fractal dimension, local bond order parameters, and the collective relaxation dynamics. Notably, the growth of elongated clusters is augmented in simulations that incorporate long-ranged hydrodynamic interactions due to the anisotropic diffusion of elongated bodies at low Reynolds numbers, which favors percolation over a transition of anisotropic clusters to their more isotropic ground states. It is only in relatively dense suspensions that a combination of hydrodynamic screening and significantly faster aggregation combine to bring the two simulation methods into agreement. These results demonstrate the necessity of long-ranged hydrodynamic forces in discrete element simulations of heterogeneous gelation at the colloidal scale.
Memory Systems of the Basal Ganglia

Mammalian memory is organized into multiple systems that may be dissociated by not only their distinct operating principles but also by the distinct brain regions that subserve them. Classically research has demonstrated that hippocampus-dependent spatial/cognitive memory may be dissociated from more primitive learning and memory functions subserved by the basal ganglia. Recent evidence suggests that the basal ganglia may be functionally heterogeneous, with different subregions mediating distinct types of learning and memory. In the present chapter, we review lesion and behavioral pharmacology studies in rodents that have delineated distinct mnemonic functions for the dorsolateral striatum (DLS), dorsomedial striatum (DMS), and nucleus accumbens. The DLS mediates stimulus–response/habit memory. The DMS mediates complex maze learning, cognitive flexibility, and action–outcome learning, and the nucleus accumbens mediates stimulus–outcome learning and the motivational control of learning and behavior. Together the basal ganglia may incorporate limbic, sensory, and executive information from higher-order brain nuclei to influence motor behavior and, thus, generate behavioral strategies for gaining favorable outcomes.
A Single Wide-Field OCT Protocol Can Provide Compelling Information for the Diagnosis of Early Glaucoma.

Purpose To evaluate a report for glaucoma diagnosis based on a single optical coherence tomography (OCT) protocol.
Constraining sector-specific CO 2 and CH 4 emissions in the US

Abstract. This review paper explores recent efforts to estimate state- and national-scale carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) emissions from individual anthropogenic source sectors in the US. Nearly all state and national climate change regulations in the US target specific source sectors, and detailed monitoring of individual sectors presents a greater challenge than monitoring total emissions. We particularly focus on opportunities to synthesize disparate types of information on emissions, including emission inventory data and atmospheric greenhouse gas data. We find that inventory estimates of sector-specific CO2 emissions are sufficiently accurate for policy evaluation at the national scale but that uncertainties increase at state and local levels. CH4 emission inventories are highly uncertain for all source sectors at all spatial scales, in part because of the complex, spatially variable relationships between economic activity and CH4 emissions. In contrast to inventory estimates, top-down estimates use measurements of atmospheric mixing ratios to infer emissions at the surface; thus far, these efforts have had some success identifying urban CO2 emissions and have successfully identified sector-specific CH4 emissions in several opportunistic cases. We also describe a number of forward-looking opportunities that would aid efforts to estimate sector-specific emissions: fully combine existing top-down datasets, expand intensive aircraft measurement campaigns and measurements of secondary tracers, and improve the economic and demographic data (e.g., activity data) that drive emission inventories. These steps would better synthesize inventory and top-down data to support sector-specific emission reduction policies.
Water Clear Cell Adenoma of the Parathyroid Gland: A Forgotten Cause of Primary Hyperparathyroidism:

Water clear cell adenoma of the parathyroid gland is a rare neoplasm composed of large clear cells with foamy cytoplasm and mild nuclear pleomorphism, compressing the residual nonneoplastic parathyroid tissue. The differential diagnosis includes a variety of neoplasms with clear cell features. In this article, we provide an overview of the entity with a historical perspective, in order to help pathologists in distinguishing it from other neoplasms in their daily practice.
Use of unmanned SAR and EO/IR sensor suites for monitoring wildfires

Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) is a proven, effective tool to monitor and map changing topography in rapidly expanding wildfire disaster situations. The broad area coverage provided by SAR can be used to detail areas of fire damage while high-resolution imagery can be used to determine fire movement and possibly provide warning to areas in the fire’s path. General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) recently collected data with an airborne Lynx SAR, operating in the Ku Band, in conjunction with a FLIR Systems Star Safire 380-HD Electrical-optical/Infrared (EO/IR) camera system on Southern California’s Blue Cut Fire. The Blue Cut Fire began in the Cajon Pass East of Los Angeles and burned a total of 36,000 acres 4 . GA-ASI was able to overfly the fire, map the area, and detail the current location, as well as additional areas where the fire was spreading. Image Analysts were able to review the collected data and provide valuable information regarding location and possible fire direction. Analysts also conducted fire damage assessments to determine which structures were lost or damaged in the Fire. The real-time analysis of SAR and EO/IR data collections has the potential to increase effectiveness of firefighting crews attempting to contain a dynamic wildfire significantly
Harnessing basic and clinic tools to evaluate SGLT2 inhibitor nephrotoxicity

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are a new class of medications that target the transporter that reabsorbs ~90% of glucose in the S1 segment of the proximal convoluted tubule. As a...
Designing Mobile Health Technologies for Self-Monitoring: The Bite Counter as a Case Study

Mobile health (mHealth) technologies are envisioned as self-monitoring tools of health behaviors (Kumar et al., Computer 46:28–35, 2013). They are meant to empower the individual to make sustainable behavior change that leads to better health. They are intended to be used long-term, with minimal to no supervision. This is in contrast to laboratory and clinical testing tools which are typically used short-term by physicians and researchers under strict patient constraints to resolve urgent conditions. Because of the individual-empowered focus, mHealth technologies need to meet the following design criteria: low user burden; low-cost; and long-term usability under free-living conditions. mHealth technologies present an interesting opportunity because of the high quantity of inexpensive data generated, which is far, far greater than what is typically provided by sporadic and expensive laboratory tests. In this chapter, we discuss this opportunity in the context of the development of the Bite Counter. The Bite Counter uses sensors embedded into a watch-like device to automatically track wrist motion to count bites. The device provides the user intake feedback during a meal, allowing them to self-monitor intake anywhere and anytime. The behavior change goal is to reduce intake in a way that results in healthy weight loss.
How Low-Income Students Became Invisible at Elite Colleges

This chapter first traces the historical visibility of high-achieving, low-income students on elite campuses, then describes how present-day high-achieving low-income students feel invisible on our elite campuses, and finally discusses this issue within the historical context of the Dartmouth College campus culture. It also shows how college administrations have a vested interest in maintaining this upper-middle-class elite reputation and mystique.
Metabolic engineering tools in model cyanobacteria.

Abstract Developing sustainable routes for producing chemicals and fuels is one of the most important challenges in metabolic engineering. Photoautotrophic hosts are particularly attractive because of their potential to utilize light as an energy source and CO2 as a carbon substrate through photosynthesis. Cyanobacteria are unicellular organisms capable of photosynthesis and CO2 fixation. While engineering in heterotrophs, such as Escherichia coli, has result in a plethora of tools for strain development and hosts capable of producing valuable chemicals efficiently, these techniques are not always directly transferable to cyanobacteria. However, recent efforts have led to an increase in the scope and scale of chemicals that cyanobacteria can produce. Adaptations of important metabolic engineering tools have also been optimized to function in photoautotrophic hosts, which include Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)-Cas9, 13C Metabolic Flux Analysis (MFA), and Genome-Scale Modeling (GSM). This review explores innovations in cyanobacterial metabolic engineering, and highlights how photoautotrophic metabolism has shaped their development.
Low PO2 Dependency of Neutral Endopeptidase and Acetylcholinesterase Activities of the Rat Carotid Body

Multiple neurochemicals contribute to the chemosensory response of the carotid body to hypoxia. In addition to biogenic amines, the mammalian carotid body contains several neuropeptides which include enkephalins (Enk), and substance P (SP) (Fidone & Gonzalez, 1986; Prabhakar et al., 1989). Several studies have demonstrated that hypoxia influences catecholamine metabolism in the carotid body by affecting their synthesis, re-uptake or degradation pathways (Fidone & Gonzalez, 1986; Wang et al., 1990). Few studies have addressed the effects of hypoxia on the neuropeptides in the carotid body (Prabhakar et al., 1989; Hansen et al., 1986). One hour of sustained, moderate hypoxia increased SP (Prabhakar et al., 1989) in the cat carotid body whereas intermittent hypoxia decreased the tissue content of SP and Enk in the rabbit carotid body (Hansen et al., 1986). After two weeks of hypoxic exposure, SP-like immunoreactivity of the type I cells significantly decreased in the cat carotid body (Wang et al., 1990). These results suggest that the effects of hypoxia on neuropeptides are complex and may arise either from enhanced in vivo peptide synthesis or decreased degradation.
Cardiac Involvement in Amyloidosis

Amyloid infiltration of the heart is the leading cause of death in patients with systemic amyloidosis. Symptoms of congestive heart failure are frequently the presenting feature of AL amyloidosis, but, because of the rarity of the disease the etiology may go unrecognized unless the clinician is particularly alert. Prior to the widespread use of echocardiography, cardiac amyloidosis was often initially diagnosed as constrictive pericarditis because of several shared clinical features. Attempts to differentiate these two entities by hemodynamic characteristics found at cardiac catheterization were generally unrewarding, due to an overlap in supposedly “specific” abnormalities (1–4).
Thermodynamic analyses of hydrogen production from sub-quality natural gas: Part II: Steam reforming and autothermal steam reforming

Abstract Part I of this paper analyzed sub-quality natural gas (SQNG) pyrolysis and autothermal pyrolysis. Production of hydrogen via direct thermolysis of SQNGs produces only 2 mol of hydrogen and 1 mol of carbon per mole of methane (CH4). Steam reforming of SQNG (SRSQNG) could become a more effective approach because the processes produce two more moles of hydrogen via water splitting. A Gibbs reactor unit operation in the AspenPlus™ chemical process simulator was employed to accomplish equilibrium calculations for the SQNG + H2O and SQNG + H2O + O2 systems. The results indicate that water and oxygen inlet flow rates do not significantly affect the decomposition of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) at temperatures lower than 1000 °C. The major co-product of the processes is carbonyl sulfide (COS) while sulfur dimer (S2) and carbon disulfide (CS2) are minor by-products within this temperature range. At higher temperatures (>1300 °C), CS2 and S2 become major co-products. No sulfur dioxide (SO2) or sulfur trioxide (SO3) is formed during either SRSQNG or autothermal SRSQNG processes, indicating that no environmentally harmful acidic gases are generated.
Impact of method of endometrial preparation for frozen blastocyst transfer on pregnancy outcome: a retrospective cohort study.

Objective To determine whether live birth rates differ by type of endometrial preparation in frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles. Design Retrospective cohort study. Setting Academic fertility center. Patient(s) Reproductive-aged women undergoing autologous vitrified–warmed blastocyst FETs. Intervention(s) Comparison of two methods of endometrial preparation: programmed FET (known as group A: luteal phase GnRH agonist suppression, oral E2, and IM P starting 5 days before ET) versus unstimulated FET (known as group B: hormone and ultrasound monitoring for follicle collapse to time transfer). Main Outcome Measure(s) Live birth rates in group A and group B. Result(s) Group A consisted of 923 cycles, and group B consisted of 105. When stratified by age at transfer, there was no difference in any of the measured outcomes, including live birth rates in adjusted models (adjusted odds ratio 1.0, 95% confidence interval 0.6–1.5), except in patients older than 40 years. These patients in group B had a 100% failure rate (n = 6). Conclusion(s) In most women, unstimulated endometrial preparation with luteal support before FET has similar success compared with exogenous hormone preparation. Women older than 40 years may benefit from programmed FETs owing to the challenges of increased cycle variability expected in that age group.