cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Short-term variability of water quality parameters in two shallow estuaries of North Carolina

We quantified the effects of nutrient loading following precipitation events (≥ 1.25 cm) in 2 tidal creeks varying in size and anthropogenic input during the winter and summer seasons of 1996. Several water quality parameters were repeatedly measured in the water column every 3 h for several days after each event (4–5 per season). Total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) behaved nonconservatively with salinity and appeared as pulsed additions, occasionally doubling within 1 to 2 tidal cycles following significant rain events. Average values for TN, TP, and chlorophylla were 10–15 μM, 4 μM, and ≥ 7 μg l−1, respectively for summer events. However, response times were variable, depending on the magnitude and duration of the event as well as temperature. Chlorophylla biomass often increased after nutrient additions, especially in the summer when increased nutrient loading took place. Dissolved silica (DSi) behaved conservatively with salinity; low values were observed at high tide and vice versa. Average DSi ranges for winter and summer events were 5–45 μM and 10–85 μM, respectively. DSi range values increased proportionally with the amount of freshwater loaded into the system. Recovery times for salinity were usually greater than the recovery times for nutrients. Dissolved oxygen displayed a diel pattern, increasing after daytime productivity and decreasing during nighttime. In conclusion, each rainfall event was unique and responses were variable depending upon rainfall history, seasonality, and the duration and intensity of the rainfall event. Several other variables, such as water viscosity, percolation rates, and evapotranspiration rates which were not quantified in this study, could have also explained parameter responses.
Maximizing customer value via mass customized e-consumer services

Abstract While the Internet provides an ideal marketplace for customized services, its strategic potential has yet to be fully realized. In particular, multi-seller (or “cross retail”) partnerships are the key to a largely unexploited Internet strategy for mass customizing bundles of goods or services as value-added solutions to individual customer needs. This article uses mass customization successes to advance cross retailing as a comprehensive strategy that frames current Web initiatives specifically in terms of customer value. Exploiting the strategy will necessitate an understanding of the enablers and dimensions of mass customized “e-consumer services” (i.e., e-tail services, as well as service-related consumer products, that are defined and sold via the Internet). The overall success of the broader Internet marketplace will be determined not just by industry-wide cooperation, but also by the development of rich standards that allow for the highly customized bundling of products. More importantly, service providers will be differentiated by their ability to employ powerful Web interfaces within a strategy that comprehensively supports and extends a customer-controlled customization process.
Unitals in the regular nearfield planes

Classes of parabolic unitals in the regular nearfield planes of odd square order are enumerated and classified. These unitals correspond to certain Buekenhout-Metz unitals in the classical plane. Their collineation groups are determined and the unitals are sorted by projective equivalence.
Repositioning of fast and slow skeletal muscle.

The origins of the rat fast plantaris and slow soleus muscles were surgically reversed and their fibre types and contractile properties examinedin vitro up to 12 weeks post surgery. Muscles in which the origins had been severed and then immediately sutured back in place served as one control group. Unoperated animals served as a second control group. As compared to these groups, no significant differences in the histochemical or mechanical properties of the repositioned muscles were detected. Under the conditions of the experiments, no evidence was obtained to indicate that the intrinsic properties of a muscle could be altered by changing its site of origin and thus its functional environment.
Electro-optical effect, acoustic resonance and space charge in KTaO3

Optical birefringence and acoustic flexure resonances show that space charge is almost homogeneously distributed in DC-biased KTaO3. The charge follows the applied field slowly but irreversibly. Some consequences for ferroelectric hysteresis are discussed.
Current research in robotics and automation-automated planning and programming for robotic batch mechanical assembly

To overcome the difficulties of programming robots, the authors are seeking automatic programming methods, using various forms of computer-based reasoning. This overview outlines their algorithm and software-related research and development for automated mechanical assembly. Five major areas of ongoing research are briefly described: compliant motion; motion planning; machine interpretation of solid models; automatic planning of assembly sequences; and automatic programming of robotic systems. >
Medical and Nonmedical Use of Prescription Stimulants: Results From a National Multicohort Study

Objective To examine the lifetime prevalence of medical and nonmedical use of prescription stimulants (e.g., Adderall, Concerta, Ritalin, Dexedrine) among high school seniors in the United States, and to assess substance use behaviors (i.e., cigarette smoking, binge drinking, marijuana, and other drug use) based on lifetime histories of medical and nonmedical use of prescription stimulants. Method Nationally representative samples of high school seniors from the Monitoring the Future study were surveyed via self-administered questionnaires. The sample consisted of 4,572 individuals (modal age 18 years) from 2 independent cohorts (2010 and 2011) and represented a population that was 50% female, 57% white, 12% African-American, 13% Hispanic, and 18% other. Results The lifetime prevalence of medical use of prescription stimulants was 9.5%, and the lifetime nonmedical use of prescription stimulants was also 9.5%. Among those who were ever prescribed stimulants, approximately 59.3% reported medical use only, 22.9% reported medical use before nonmedical use, and 17.8% reported nonmedical use before medical use. The odds of substance use behaviors generally did not differ between medical users only and non-users. In contrast, the odds of substance use behaviors were greater among nonmedical users only and medical users who reported any history of nonmedical use relative to nonusers. Conclusions About 1 in every 6 high school seniors in the United States has ever had some exposure to prescription stimulants, either medically or nonmedically. Health care professionals should carefully screen and monitor adolescents, because the risk for substance abuse is directly associated with a history of nonmedical use of prescription stimulants.
Excretion of Sulfur During Healing of Experimental Wounds.

SummaryThe effect of wounding on metabolism of the sulfur amino acids was studied by following the excretion of sulfur in normal and wounded rats. After wounding, there is a relative retention of sulfur, even though a greater amount of nitrogen than normal is excreted. Studies with S35 labeled cystine and methionine indicated that the metabolism of these amino acids is greater in wounded than in normal animals.
Juvenile hormone acid and ecdysteroid together induce competence for metamorphosis of the Verson's gland in Manduca sexta.

Abstract In the last larval instar of Lepidoptera, ecdysteroid in the absence of juvenile hormone (JH) is believed to cause the shift from larval to pupal development. In Manduca sexta, tissues such as the Verson's gland and crochet epidermis become pupally committed before the earliest pulse of ecdysteroid that occurs on day 2. What causes the change in commitment in these tissues? First it was necessary to determine at what stage these tissues become competent to express the pupal program. Last instar larvae of different ages were induced to molt prematurely by feeding the ecdysteroid analog RH5992 and Verson's gland proteins were analyzed by SDS–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Glands became competent to make pupal proteins between 24 and 32 h after the last larval ecdysis. Next, hormonal regulation of competence was examined in ligated abdomens of 12h last instar larvae. Treatment with JH II acid or methoprene acid plus a low dose (1/50th of the molt inducing dose) of RH5992 induced competence, whereas RH5992 alone, methoprene acid alone or methoprene plus RH5992 did not. Verson's glands maintained in vitro produced pupal proteins in response to methoprene acid together with RH5992 but not with RH5992 alone. Likewise, crochet epidermis lost the ability to make crochets (metamorphic change) only in isolated abdomens treated with JH II acid or methoprene acid and low doses of RH5992. In conclusion, JH acid in the presence of basal levels of ecdysteroid induces tissue competence for metamorphosis. Metamorphic competence is followed by commitment, induced by a small pulse of ecdysteroid in the absence of JH, and finally by expression caused by a high titer of ecdysteroid. It is proposed that JH acid is an essential metamorphic hormone.
Influence of Arctic sea ice extent on polar cloud fraction and vertical structure and implications for regional climate

Recent satellite lidar measurements of cloud properties spanning a period of five years are used to examine a possible connection between Arctic sea ice amount and polar cloud fraction and vertical distribution. We find an anti-correlation between sea ice extent and cloud fraction with maximum cloudiness occurring over areas with little or no sea ice. We also find that over ice free regions, there is greater low cloud frequency and average optical depth. Most of the optical depth increase is due to the presence of geometrically thicker clouds over water. In addition, our analysis indicates that over the last 5 years, October and March average polar cloud fraction has increased by about 7 and 10 percent, respectively, as year average sea ice extent has decreased by 5 to 7 percent. The observed cloud changes are likely due to a number of effects including, but not limited to, the observed decrease in sea ice extent and thickness. Increasing cloud amount and changes in vertical distribution and optical properties have the potential to affect the radiative balance of the Arctic region by decreasing both the upwelling terrestrial longwave radiation and the downward shortwave solar radiation. Since longwave radiation dominates in the long polar winter, the overall effect of increasing low cloud cover is likely a warming of the Arctic and thus a positive climate feedback, possibly accelerating the melting of Arctic sea ice.
Hard Work: The Making of Labor History

One of American labor history's most prominent scholars, Melvyn Dubofsky curated an accessible style and historical reach that have long marked his work as required reading for students and scholars. This collection juxtaposes Dubofsky's early writings with scholarship from the 1990s. Selections include work on western working-class radicalism, U.S. labor history in transnational and comparative settings, and the impact of technological change on American worker's movements. Throughout, the writings provide an invaluable eyewitness perspective on the academic and political climate of the 1960s and 1970s while tracing the development of labor history as a discipline. An exploration of important themes in labor history, Hard Work combines essential scholarship with the story of how past and present interact in the work of historians.
Fundraising for the Evolving Academic Library: The Strategic Small Shop Advantage.

Abstract The newer and smaller academic library presents features that increase the library's value as a fundraising entity, providing a strategic advantage regarding institutional advancement and development. The article analyzes the evolving academic library's strategic fundraising advantage and provide a basis for positioning the library within the campus development strategy.
Beneficial Changes in Random Variables Under Multiple Sources of Risk and Their Comparative Statics

The consequences of a change in a random parameter are determined for a decision model with more than one source of randomness. The two cases of independent and stochastically dependent sources of risk are discussed. Four comparative static theorems are given. These state the effect of first degree stochastically dominant shifts or risk decreases for one random variable while the other random variable is held fixed. Deterministic transformations are used to represent random parameter changes. The results are presented in the context of the coinsurance demand model with a risky insurable asset and background risk.
A procedure for the modification of undercooling of metal droplets

Abstract Droplet emulsification — a procedure for dispersion of fine liquid metal droplets in a second phase — is a powerful technique for the study of nucleation and growth during solidification. The dispersion of bulk liquid metals as fine droplets relegates the influence of impurity particles to a limited fraction of total sample mass. The chemistry and structure of the surface coating stabilizing the metal droplets controls heterogeneous crystal nucleation and the onset temperature for solidification. To be truly useful, the droplet emulsification technique must be applicable to the high melting metals and alloys of commercial utility and the surface oxide structures native to these metals must be modifiable. A procedure for surface coating and suspension of solid metal powders in solid ceramic powder matrices has been developed which permits the study of pure metals and commercially important alloy systems, with melting temperatures between room tempe ature and 1500°C. The ceramic powder matrices have been shown to be non-catalytic to nucleation for the pure metals: Ag, Au, Cu and Ni and Co. In fact, undercoolings for these metals equal or exceed values reported by any other technique.
Hybrid first‐principles/neural networks model for column flotation

A new model for phosphate column flotation is presented which for the first time relates the effects of operating variables such as frother concentration on column performance. This is a hybrid model that combines a first-principles model with artificial neural networks. The first-principles model is obtained from material balances on both phosphate particles and gangue (undesired material containing mostly silica). First-order rates of net attachment are assumed for both. Artificial neural networks relate the attachment rate constants to the operating variables. Experiments were conducted in a 6-in.-dia. (152-mm-dia.) laboratory column to provide data for neural network training and model validation. The model successfully predicts the effects of frother concentration, particle size, air flow rate and bubble diameter on grade and recovery.
Fabrication and performances of pseudomorphic high-electron-mobility transistor (PHEMT) Ka-band three-stage amplifiers for phased-array applications

A 100-200-400 micrometers pHEMT monolithic amplifier has been developed for Ka-Band operation. This amplifier has achieved the state-of-the-art efficiency of 40% with 235 mW output power and 20.7 dB gain at 31 GHz. Two other circuits with 50-100-200 micrometers and 50-100-250 micrometers gate width have been fabricated in quantity of 100 to 200. This has been made possible by the advance of new fabrication techniques such as RIE dry recess with etch-stop layer which insures uniformity across full three-inch wafers. Amplifiers of this type are being used in a prototype phased-array antenna.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Biodegradable nanoparticles for drug and gene delivery to cells and tissue

Biodegradable nanoparticles formulated from poly (D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) have been extensively investigated for sustained and targeted/localized delivery of different agents including plasmid DNA, proteins and peptides and low molecular weight compounds. Research about the mechanism of intracellular uptake of nanoparticles, their trafficking and sorting into different intracellular compartments, and the mechanism of enhanced therapeutic efficacy of nanoparticle-encapsulated agent at cellular level is more recent and is the primary focus of the review. Recent studies in our laboratory demonstrated rapid escape of PLGA nanoparticles from the endo-lysosomal compartment into cytosol following their uptake. Based on the above mechanism, various potential applications of nanoparticles for delivery of therapeutic agents to the cells and tissue are discussed.
Network modeling of multiple-port, multiple-vibration-mode transducers and resonators

Abstract A modeling procedure is presented for multiple-port, multiple-vibration-mode transducers. Unique features of the procedure include the use of modal coordinates to describe deformations of the mechanical structure, the use of a network analog for each vibration mode of the structure, and the selection of modal velocity, rather than a particular physical velocity on the structure, as the mechanical flow variable in each modal network. Finite element analysis is used only to compute a discrete set of salient circuit parameters, with all other analysis and design computations performed using the networks. The approach is computationally efficient and assists with providing insights into the design of actuators and micromechanical resonators, where the generation and suppression of particular vibration modes may be important. A micromachined, multiple-port piezoelectric microphone with in-plane directivity is presented as a case study to demonstrate application of the procedure. Model verification is performed by comparing simulated and measured port-to-port transfer functions over a frequency range spanning several vibration modes of the device. The modeling procedure can address multiple-port sensor response to distributed loadings, selective excitation and suppression of modes in actuator applications, and mixed sensing and actuator applications such as the demonstrated port-to-port measurements.
Cycle accurate transaction-driven simulation with multiple processor simulators

Performance of multi-processor simulation is determined by how often simulators exchange events with one another and how accurately simulators model their behaviors. Previous techniques have limited their applicability or sacrificed accuracy for performance. In this paper, we notice that inaccuracy comes from events which arrive between event exchange boundaries. We propose cycle accurate transaction-driven simulation which maintains event exchange boundaries at bus transactions but compensates for accuracy. The proposed technique is implemented in CATS framework and our experiment with 64 processors achieves 1.2M processor cycles/s.
Negative regulation of the androgen receptor gene promoter by NFI and an adjacently located multiprotein-binding site.

The upstream promoter of the rat androgen receptor (AR) gene contains a strong negative regulatory region located at the− 388 to −340 nucleotide position. The distal part (−388/−373) of this regulatory region binds NFI, a ubiquitous transcription factor, while the proximal portion (−372/−340) contains an overlapping binding site for two nuclear proteins. This composite regulatory region (−388/−340) was initially defined by deoxyribonuclease I footprinting as the continuous stretch of a nuclease-protected site. NFI specificity of the distal portion (−388/−373) of the footprint was established through cross-competition in electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) using the well characterized NFI element of the adenovirus major late promoter and by immunoreactivity to the NFI antibody. EMSA with oligonucleotide duplexes corresponding to the proximal domain (−372/−340) indicated multiple retarded bands with at least two major DNA-protein complexes. Further analysis with truncated oligonucleotide duplexes sh...
Determination of parameter p(t) in Holder classes for some semilinear parabolic equations

The authors consider the problem of finding the pair (u,p) such that ut=Au+F(x,t,u,ux,p) in QT, u(x,0)=u0(x), x in Omega , u(x,t)=u1(x,t), on ST= delta Omega *(0,T), and integral Omega 0 phi (x,t)u(x,t)dx=E(t), 0 0, Omega is a domain in Rn with smooth boundary delta Omega , Omega 0 contained in/implied by Omega is a domain with regular boundary delta Omega 0, u0, u1, phi and E and F are known functions, ux=(ux1,. . .,uxn), and Au= Sigma i,j=1n(aij(x,t)uxixj with aij and (aij)xj smooth and 0<a0 mod xi mod 2<or=aij xi i xi i<or=a1 mod xi mod 2. Existence and uniqueness of a smooth solution pair (u,p) which depends continuously upon the data is demonstrated under certain assumptions on the data.
Statins inhibit C-reactive protein-induced chemokine secretion, ICAM-1 upregulation and chemotaxis in adherent human monocytes

OBJECTIVES: We have recently shown that CRP induces chemokine secretion and adhesion molecule up-regulation in human primary monocytes cultured in adherence. Given the increasing evidence on direct immunomodulatory properties of statins, we investigated their possible anti-inflammatory role on CRP-treated human monocytes. METHODS: Monocytes were isolated by Ficoll-Percoll gradients and cultured in adherence to polystyrene. Chemokine secretion and adhesion molecule expression were detected by ELISA and flow cytometry. Migration assays were performed in modified Boyden chambers. Intracellular kinase activation was assessed by western blot. RESULTS: Treatment with simvastatin or atorvastatin decreased CRP-induced release of CCL2, CCL3 and CCL4. In addition, both statins reduced CRP-induced intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM-1) up-regulation, but had no effects on CD11b and CD18. Treatments with 1 microM simvastatin or atorvastatin significantly inhibited monocyte migration in response to CRP. CD32 and CD64 (CRP receptors) expression on monocytes was not affected by statins. Statin-induced inhibition of CRP-mediated chemokine secretion, ICAM-1 up-regulation and migration occurred through the inhibition of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2. Treatment with L-mevalonate or farnesylpyrophosphate, but not geranylgeranyl-pyrophosphate reversed the statin-induced effect on CRP-mediated functions and ERK 1/2 phosphorylation, confirming that statins blocked CRP-induced ERK 1/2 phosphorylation through the inhibition of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase. CONCLUSIONS: Statins inhibited CRP-induced chemokine secretion, ICAM-1 up-regulation and migration in human adherent monocytes, through the inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase-ERK 1/2 pathway. This pathway could represent a very promising target to reduce CRP-induced activities in monocyte-mediated diseases, such as atherosclerosis or RA.
An anatomic study of the epiphyseal tubercle and its importance in the pathogenesis of slipped capital femoral epiphysis

Background: It has been proposed that the epiphyseal tubercle on the inferior surface of the capital femoral epiphysis may be responsible for the clinical distinction between a stable and an unstable slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE). The anatomy of the tubercle and its relationship to the lateral epiphyseal vessels have not previously been rigorously defined. Methods: Twenty-two cadaveric capital femoral epiphyses from donors who had been three to seventeen years of age were analyzed and then digitized with use of a high-resolution laser scanner. The height, location, and approximate surface area of the epiphyseal tubercle were measured and were normalized to the size of the entire capital femoral epiphysis. Results: In all specimens except that from the youngest donor, the foramina for the lateral epiphyseal vessels were visible and were located directly superior to the epiphyseal tubercle. The height of the epiphyseal tubercle was 4.4 ± 1.1 mm. When normalized to the overall size of the capital femoral epiphysis, the relative height (r = 0.71) and relative area (r = 0.56) of the epiphyseal tubercle decreased with increasing age. The epiphyseal tubercle was consistently located in the posterosuperior quadrant, with its position being more posterior and less superior in specimens from younger donors. Conclusions: The epiphyseal tubercle appears to be a major stabilizer, or keystone, of the capital femoral epiphysis and the lateral epiphyseal vessels. Its relative decrease in height and surface area with increasing age may help explain the susceptibility of individuals to SCFE in adolescence: in a stable SCFE, the physis rotates on the tubercle; however, in an unstable SCFE, the tubercle dislodges, leading to more substantial displacement of the capital femoral epiphysis and the lateral epiphyseal vessels, risking osteonecrosis. Clinical Relevance: These anatomic data offer a possible insight into the pathogenesis of SCFE and the potential complication of osteonecrosis. When fixation of an SCFE is performed with a single screw, the posterosuperior quadrant should be avoided to maximize any possible derotational effect of the epiphyseal tubercle.
Polyspectral analysis of (almost) cyclostationary signals: LPTV system identification and related applications

Polyspectral estimators are proposed for (almost) cyclostationary signals and are shown to be consistent and asymptotically normal. These estimators are used for identification of linear (almost) periodically time-varying systems. Both nonparametric and parametric approaches are described for input-output and output only identification. Statistical analysis of nonstationary signals with missing observations is treated and tests are developed for checking the presence of cycle frequencies. Frequency estimation and detection of coupling are addressed in the cyclic domain without resorting to phase randomization. All methods are proven to be insensitive to stationary noise and use consistent single record estimators. >
Murine MicroRNA-214 regulates intracellular adhesion molecule (ICAM1) gene expression in genital Chlamydia muridarum infection.

Summary The hallmark of chlamydial infection is the development of upper genital pathology in the form of hydrosalpinx and oviduct and/or tubal dilatation. Although molecular events leading to genital tissue presentation and cellular architectural remodelling are unclear, early-stage host immune responses are believed to contribute to these long-term sequelae. Recently, we reported the contribution of selected infection-associated microRNAs (miRs) in the generation of host immunity at early-stage infection (day 6 after intravaginal Chlamydia muridarum challenge in C57BL/6 mice). In this report, we describe the contribution of an infection-associated microRNA, i.e. miR-214, to host immunity. Chlamydia muridarum infection in the C57BL/6 mouse genital tract significantly down-regulated miR-214 while up-regulating intracellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM1) gene expression. These in vivo observations were confirmed by establishing direct regulation of ICAM-1 by miR-214 in ex vivo genital cell cultures in the presence of miR-214 mimic and inhibitor. Because, ICAM-1 contributes to recruitment of neutrophils following infection, we also demonstrated that alteration of ICAM1 by miR-214 in interleukin-17A-deficient (IL-17A � /� ) mice correlated with reduction of neutrophils infiltrating genital tissue at day 6 after challenge. Additionally, these early-stage events resulted in significantly decreased genital pathology in IL-17A � /� mice compared with C57BL/6 mice. This report provides evidence for earlystage regulation of ICAM1 by microRNAs, resulting in reduction of genital pathology associated with chlamydial infection.
Should the teaching of full denture prosthetics be maintained in schools of dentistry

Consider the following quotations regarding edentulism in the United States and the training required to meet the needs of edentulous patients: “The 10 percent decline in edentulism experienced each decade for the past 30 years will be more than offset by the 79 percent increase in the adult
The Dynamics of Empirically Derived Factors in the Therapeutic Relationship

The therapeutic relationship is the source of major concepts in psychoanalytic clinical theory. Such concepts as resistance, transference, countertransference, and the alliance are fundamental, even though there may be shifts in meaning between theoretical schools and clinical contexts. In the clinical psychoanalytic literature, disagreement exists over the nature of the alliance and its essential components. Empirical studies using reliable patient, therapist, and observer scales to assess the alliance demonstrate a correlation with psychotherapeutic gains. In the study reported here, thirteen patients were followed for 6 to 33 months of psychodynamic psychotherapy, during which time their views of the therapeutic relationship were assessed, and several experiential measures taken, all on a weekly basis. Statistical analyses reveal that the therapeutic relationship, as reflected in the patients' weekly responses to the St. Louis Therapeutic Relationship Rating Scale, has four distinct components: therapeutic alliance, resistance, transference love, and negative transference. On a week-by-week basis, the therapeutic alliance was the strongest predictor of improvement in patient-reported general adjustment, as reflected in such areas as self-esteem, positive affect, social relations, work productivity, satisfaction, and optimism. Time plots of the variables show the typical time course for the components of the therapeutic relationship, as well as for improvement on the experiential variables. Results indicate that the therapeutic alliance, transference, and resistance are central components of the psychotherapeutic relationship, which in turn predict the ongoing life experience of the patient.
The role of science festivals

John Durant The wind of change is blowing through the world of science outreach. Tried and tested approaches—in journalism, broadcasting, museums, science centers, and elsewhere—are being reworked in unconventional and sometimes surprising ways. At the same time, older assumptions—about the importance of emphasizing “objectivity” in science, of relying on professional mediators, or of a single-minded focus on conveying factual knowledge to under-informed audiences—are being actively questioned or simply set aside. Not so long ago, science seemed to “know its place” in popular culture. It was found mainly in the science and technology sections of quality newspapers, in specialist “science slots” on radio and TV, in dedicated museums and science centers, and the like. Not so—or at least, not so much—today. Now, science is all over the blogosphere. It’s finding a place or two in prime time radio and TV, and it’s starting to spread to new corners of the public square. Where once you had to know where to look for science outreach, now you’re as likely to come across it in a cafe, … [↵][1]1E-mail: jdurant{at}mit.edu. [1]: #xref-corresp-1-1
Evidence for GABAergic interneurons in the red nucleus of the painted turtle.

Immunocytochemical and electrophysiological evidence supporting the presence of GABAergic interneurons in the turtle red nucleus is presented. Injections of HRP into the spinal cord produced labeling of large neurons in the contralateral red nucleus. The peroxidase-antiperoxidase (PAP) method revealed smaller cells immunoreactive to an antibody against glutamate decarboxylase (GAD), the synthetic enzyme for the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, that were interspersed among larger immunonegative neurons. Similar small neurons were densely immunostained by antibodies to GABA-glutaraldehyde conjugates obtained from different sources and applied according to pre-embedding and postembedding protocols. Rubrospinal neurons retrogradely labeled with HRP measured 16 and 27 μm in mean minor and major cell body diameters, while GABA-like immunopositive neurons situated within the red nucleus measured 7 and 13 μm. There was very little overlap in soma size between the two cell populations. Therefore, we suggest that the GAD- and GABA-positive neurons may be local inhibitory interneurons. This nition is further supported by observations of pre-embedding immunostaining for GAD and postembedding immunostaining for GABA showing that the turtle red nucleus is amply innervated by immunoreactive axon terminals. These puncta are closely apposed to cell bodies and dendrites of both immunonegative large neurons and immunopositive small neurons. Moreover, immunogold staining at the electron microscopic level demonstrated that GABA-like immunoreactive axon terminals with pleomorphic synaptic vesicles formed symmetric synapses with cell bodies and dendrites of the two types of red nucleus cells. These ultrastructural features are commonly assumed to indicate inhibitory synapses. A moderately labeled bouton with round vesicles and asymmetric synapses was also observed. In addition, the two types of red nucleus neurons received asymmetric axosomatic and axodendritic synapses with GABA-negative boutons provided with round vesicles, features usually associated with excitatory functions. To obtain electrophysiological evidence for inhibition, intracellular recordings from red nucleus neurons were conducted using an in vitro brainstem-cerebellum preparation from the turtle. Small, spontaneous IPSPs were recorded from 7 out of 14 red nucleus cells studied. These morphological and physiological results provide strong support for concluding that the turtle red nucleus, like its mammalian counterpart, contains GABAergic inhibitory interneurons. While we have not indentified the main source of input to these interneurons, in view of the scarce development of the reptilian cerebral cortex, this input is unlikely to come from the motor cortex as it does in mammals. Current concepts of the role of these interneurons in motor control must take into account the presence of this interneuronal system that phylogenetically precedes the emergence of the sensorimotor cortex. © Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Characterization of cytokine responses to retinal detachment in rats

Purpose: Photoreceptor apoptosis is associated with retinal detachment (RD) induced photoreceptor degeneration. Previously, we demonstrated the importance of caspase activation for RD-induced photoreceptor death in a rat model of RD. However, extracellular signals that precede the activation of caspases and photoreceptor degeneration remain unclear. The aim of this study is to characterize the molecular and cellular responses that occur after RD. The expression of cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors were examined in a rat model of RD. Methods: RD was induced in adult rats by subretinal injection of sodium hyaluronate. Retinal tissues were collected at various times (1, 3, 6, 24, and 72 h) after the induction of detachment. To screen for expressional changes in response to RD, major candidates for cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors were broadly examined by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (QPCR). To identify the cellular sources of the expressed genes, cells from various layers of the retina were obtained using laser capture microdissection (LCM), and their mRNAs were isolated. Protein expression was quantified by immunohistochemistry and Enzyme Linked-Immuno-Sorbent Assay (ELISA). To assess the potential of early response genes after RD to induce photoreceptor degeneration, exogenous recombinant proteins were subretinally injected and the photoreceptor cell death was assessed using a TdT-dUTP terminal nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay at 24 h after RD. Results: At 72 h after RD a significant increase in mRNA levels for tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL1β), monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) were detected in the neural retina. LCM revealed increased expression of mRNA for bFGF and MCP-1 in all retinal layers, though bFGF was especially evident in the outer nuclear layer (ONL) and MCP-1 in the inner nuclear layer (INL). TNF- α was increased in the ONL and the INL, and IL-1β was increased in the ganglion cell layer. Time course experiments showed that TNF-α, IL1β and MCP-1 increased within 1 h after RD, while bFGF was increased by 24 h. Increased protein expression for TNFα, IL-1β, and MCP-1 was demonstrated by ELISA at 6 h after RD. Immunohistochemistry showed TNF-α and bFGF expression in the whole retina, with IL-1β specifically expressed in astrocytes and MCP-1 in Muller cells. Subretinal administration of MCP-1 significantly increased TUNEL-positive cells in the ONL 24 h after RD, while injection of vehicle control, TNF-α, or IL-1β showed no effect. Conclusions: Retinal glial cells, including astrocytes and Muller cells, are a major source of cytokine induction after RD. The increased expression and release of MCP-1 may be an important cause of photoreceptor degeneration associated with RD. This study helps to understand the mechanisms of RD-induced photoreceptor degeneration. Our results may provide new therapeutic targets to prevent photoreceptor degeneration following RD.
Folliculin mutations are not associated with severe COPD

Rare loss-of-function folliculin (FLCN) mutations are the genetic cause of Birt-Hogg-Dube syndrome, a monogenic disorder characterized by spontaneous pneumothorax, fibrofolliculomas, and kidney tumors. Loss-of-function folliculin mutations have also been described in pedigrees with familial spontaneous pneumothorax. Because the majority of patients with folliculin mutations have radiographic evidence of pulmonary cysts, folliculin has been hypothesized to contribute to the development of emphysema. To determine whether folliculin sequence variants are risk factors for severe COPD, we genotyped seven previously reported Birt-Hogg-Dube or familial spontaneous pneumothorax associated folliculin mutations in 152 severe COPD probands participating in the Boston Early-Onset COPD Study. We performed bidirectional resequencing of all 14 folliculin exons in a subset of 41 probands and subsequently genotyped four identified variants in an independent sample of345 COPD subjects from the National Emphysema Treatment Trial (cases) and 420 male smokers with normal lung function from the Normative Aging Study (controls). None of the seven previously reported Birt-Hogg-Dube or familial spontaneous pneumothorax mutations were observed in the 152 severe, early-onset COPD probands. Exon resequencing identified 31 variants, including two non-synonymous polymorphisms and two common non-coding polymorphisms. No significant association was observed for any of these four variants with presence of COPD or emphysema-related phenotypes. Genetic variation in folliculin does not appear to be a major risk factor for severe COPD. These data suggest that familial spontaneous pneumothorax and COPD have distinct genetic causes, despite some overlap in radiographic characteristics.
Fraunhofer: a scientific/technical icon

Joseph von Fraunhofer's career illustrates an effective synergy between science and engineering.
Dietary Feeding of Silibinin Inhibits Advance Human Prostate Carcinoma Growth in Athymic Nude Mice and Increases Plasma Insulin-like Growth Factor-binding Protein-3 Levels

We have reported recently the anticancer effect of flavonoid antioxidant silymarin, the major part of milk thistle extract, against advanced human prostate carcinoma DU145 cells (X. Zi et al. , Cancer Res., 58: 1920–1929, 1998) and later identified that silibinin is the main active component in silymarin responsible for its effect in cell culture studies. On the basis of these observations, here we assessed in vivo growth inhibitory potential of silibinin against advanced human prostate cancer (PCA). Dietary feeding of silibinin at 0.05 and 0.1% doses (w/w) for 60 days, 24 h after s.c. DU145 tumor xenograft implantation in athymic male nude mice, significantly inhibited tumor volume by 35 and 58% ( P < 0.05), and wet weight of tumor by 29 and 40% ( P < 0.05), respectively. In a second experiment where mice were fed with these test diets for 3 weeks before tumor xenograft implantation and continued on these diets for a total of 63 days, tumor volume and wet weight of tumor were reduced by 53–64% ( P < 0.001–0.05) and 31–52% ( P < 0.05), respectively. In both studies, animals did not show weight loss or reduced food consumption. These in vivo anticancer effects of silibinin were associated with an increased accumulation (up to 5.8 fold; P < 0.05) of human insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-3 in mouse plasma. In additional studies assessing biological availability of silibinin in nude mice and its antiproliferative activity at such doses in DU145 cells in culture, silibinin levels in plasma and prostate were found to be in the range of 7–13 μg/ml and 3.7–4.6 μg/g, respectively. At these biologically achievable silibinin concentrations, increased IGFBP-3 level in DU145 cell culture medium and a strong DU145 cell growth inhibition were observed that were irreversible in the absence of silibinin in culture medium. These findings extend and translate our observations on in vitro anticancer effect of silibinin/silymarin to an in vivo preclinical PCA model, which may form the basis for a Phase I clinical trial in PCA patients.
Challenging Behaviors In Young Children: The Father's Role

In this study, the authors examined the parenting practices, developmental expectations, and stress levels of 136 fathers and the challenging and prosocial behaviors of their 1- to 5-year-old children. In addition, the authors systematically addressed fathers' qualitative concerns about their parenting. The authors divided the participants into 4 groups and controlled for family socioeconomic status (SES) and the focus child's gender. Results showed a significantly higher use of corporal and verbal punishment and parenting stress among lower income fathers. Secondary analyses demonstrated a significant effect of paternal disciplinary practices that emphasized the frequent use of corporal and verbal punishment on child behavior problems, regardless of SES level. On a positive note, fathers from both lower and higher SES groups had reasonable developmental expectations for their boys and girls, and they reported similar frequencies of their children's prosocial behavior. The authors discuss the need for early parent education programs that include fathers and that teach specific strategies to address child behavior problems.
Chronic ethanol increases adeno‐associated viral transgene expression in rat liver via oxidant and NFκB‐dependent mechanisms

Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) transduction is limited in vivo, yet can be enhanced by hydroxyurea, ultraviolet-irradiation, or adenovirus coinfection, possibly via mechanisms involving stress in the host cell. Because chronic ethanol induces oxidative stress, it was hypothesized that chronic ethanol would increase rAAV transduction in vivo. To test this hypothesis, rAAV encoding β-galactosidase was given to Wistar rats that later received either ethanol diet or high-fat control diet via an enteral-feeding protocol for 3 weeks. Expression and activity of β-galactosidase in the liver were increased nearly 5-fold by ethanol. The increase in transgene expression was inhibited by antioxidant diphenylene iodonium (DPI), which is consistent with the hypothesis that ethanol causes an increase in rAAV transduction via oxidative stress. Ethanol increased DNA synthesis only slightly; however, it increased the nuclear transcription factor κB (NFκB) 4-fold, a phenomenon also sensitive to DPI. Moreover, a 6-fold increase in rAAV transgene expression was observed in an acute ischemia-reperfusion model of oxidative stress. Transgene expression was transiently increased 24 hours after ischemia-reperfusion 3 days and 3 weeks after rAAV infection. Further, adenoviral expression of superoxide dismutase or IκBα superrepressor inhibited rAAV transgene expression caused by ischemia-reperfusion. Therefore, it is concluded that ethanol increases rAAV transgene expression via mechanisms dependent on oxidative stress, and NFκB likely through enhancement of cytomegaloviral (CMV) promoter elements. Alcoholic liver disease is an attractive target for gene therapy because consumption of ethanol could theoretically increase expression of therapeutic genes (e.g., superoxide dismutase). Moreover, this study has important implications for rAAV gene therapy and potential enhancement and regulation of transgene expression in liver.
Ischemic biliary injury following extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)

Extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is occasionally sed in adults with acute lung failure. We report an association etween ischemic biliary duct injury (IBDI) and ECMO, successfully reated endoscopically. A 22-year-oldwomanwith systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) nd anti-phospholipid antibody syndrome developed lupus flare f severe myocarditis and pulmonitis. Computed tomography evealed normal liver parenchyma and no hepatic artery thrombois (HAT) or ductal dilation. After central ECMO support and 3week ospitalization she returned three months later with cholestatic ymptoms. Magnetic resonance cholangiopacreatography revealed highrade bifurcation stricture with a distal filling defect (Fig. 1). ndoscopic retrograde cholangiopacreatography confirmed these ndings and revealedabiliary cast, removedendoscopically (Fig. 2).
Aspartate Kinase 2. A Candidate Gene of a Quantitative Trait Locus Influencing Free Amino Acid Content in Maize Endosperm

The maize (Zea mays) Oh545o2 inbred accumulates an exceptionally high level of free amino acids, especially lysine (Lys), threonine (Thr), methionine, and iso-leucine. In a cross between Oh545o2 and Oh51Ao2, we identified several quantitative trait loci linked with this phenotype. One of these is on the long arm of chromosome 2 and is linked with loci encoding aspartate (Asp) kinase 2 and Asp kinase (AK)-homoserine dehydrogenase (HSDH) 2. To investigate whether these enzymes can contribute to the high levels of Asp family amino acids, we measured their specific activity and feedback inhibition properties, as well as activities of several other key enzymes involved in Lys metabolism. We did not find a significant difference in total activity of dihydrodipicolinate synthase, HSDH, and Lys ketoglutarate reductase between these inbreds, and the feedback inhibition properties of HSDH and dihyrodipicolinate synthase by Lys and/or Thr were similar. The most significant difference we found between Oh545o2 and Oh51Ao2 is feedback inhibition of AK by Lys but not Thr. AK activity in Oh545o2 is less sensitive to Lys inhibition than that in Oh51Ao2, with a Lys I50 twice that of Oh51Ao2. AK activity in Oh545o2 endosperm is also higher than in Oh51Ao2 at 15 d after pollination, but not 20 d after pollination. The results indicate that the Lys-sensitive Asp kinase 2, rather than the Thr-sensitive AK-HSDH2, is the best candidate gene for the quantitative trait locus affecting free amino acid content in Oh545o2.
The neural substrate for dreaming: Is it a subsystem of the default network?

Building on the content, developmental, and neurological evidence that there are numerous parallels between waking cognition and dreaming, this article argues that the likely neural substrate that supports dreaming, which was discovered through converging lesion and neuroimaging studies, may be a subsystem of the waking default network, which is active during mind wandering, daydreaming, and simulation. Support for this hypothesis would strengthen the case for a more general neurocognitive theory of dreaming that starts with established findings and concepts derived from studies of waking cognition and neurocognition. If this theory is correct, then dreaming may be the quintessential cognitive simulation because it is often highly complex, often includes a vivid sensory environment, unfolds over a duration of a few minutes to a half hour, and is usually experienced as real while it is happening.