cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Intestinal Ischemia and the Gut–Liver Axis: An in Vitro Model☆☆☆

Abstract Background. Sustained intestinal ischemic injury often leads to shock and multiorgan failure, mediated in part by a cytokine cascade. Animal models have also identified a central role of Kupffer cells in amplification of cytokines following intestinal ischemia. To better understand this gut–liver axis, we developed an in vitro model. Materials and methods. Kupffer cells were isolated from rat livers by arabinogalactan gradient ultracentrifugation and adherence purification. Cells were grown in RPMI medium in 5% CO2. Rat intestinal epithelial cells, IEC-6, were cultured under normoxic or anoxic (90% N2, 10% CO2) conditions for 2, 12, and 24 h. Kupffer cells were then grown in the conditioned medium of the IEC-6 cultures. After 24 h, the medium was replaced with fresh medium. This final Kupffer cell supernatant was tested for tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin-6 production by ELISA. Trypan blue exclusion was performed to assess cell viability. Results. Intestinal and Kupffer cells remained viable during the experimental time. Production of both tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin-6 by Kupffer cells increased with increasing ischemia time of the intestinal cells. Conclusions. Consistent with animal studies of intestinal ischemia, this study found an increase in cytokine production by Kupffer cells following hypoxia of intestinal cells. This in vitro model offers a new tool to study the expression of cytokines, proteins, and messengers involved in the cascade of events that follow intestinal ischemia.
PREVAIL: latest electron optics results

The PREVAIL electron optics subsystem developed by IBM has been installed at Nikon's facility in Kumagaya, Japan, for integration into the Nikon commercial EPL stepper. The cornerstone of the electron optics design is the Curvilinear Variable Axis Lens (CVAL) technique originally demonstrated with a proof of concept system. This paper presents the latest experimental results obtained with the electron optical subsystem at Nikon's facility. The results include micrographs illustrating proper CVAL operation through the spatial resolution achieved over the entire optical field of view. They also include data on the most critical issue of the EPL exposure approach: subfield stitching. The methodology of distortion correction will be described and both micrographs and metrology data of stitched subfields will be presented. This paper represents a progress report of the IBM/Nikon alliance activity on EPL.
Endocrinological basis of sex differences in cocaine-induced behavioral responses.

: Currently, 1.8 million Americans use cocaine, 30% of whom are females. Sex differences in the pattern of cocaine abuse may reside in neuroendocrinological modulations that affect the use of and/or dependence on cocaine. This review discusses sex differences in cocaine-induced behavioral and molecular alterations in the central nervous system, with emphasis on the role of endocrine responses in the neuronal modulations of this drug. Mechanisms and data supporting the role of the hypothalamic-gonadal axis in the modulation of cocaine-induced behavioral and molecular alterations are also provided.
Long term atmospheric deposition as the source of nitrate and other salts in the Atacama Desert, Chile: New evidence from mass-independent oxygen isotopic compositions

Abstract Isotopic analysis of nitrate and sulfate minerals from the nitrate ore fields of the Atacama Desert in northern Chile has shown anomalous 17 O enrichments in both minerals. Δ 17 O values of 14–21 ‰ in nitrate and 0.4 to 4 ‰ in sulfate are the most positive found in terrestrial minerals to date. Modeling of atmospheric processes indicates that the Δ 17 O signatures are the result of photochemical reactions in the troposphere and stratosphere. We conclude that the bulk of the nitrate, sulfate and other soluble salts in some parts of the Atacama Desert must be the result of atmospheric deposition of particles produced by gas to particle conversion, with minor but varying amounts from sea spray and local terrestrial sources. Flux calculations indicate that the major salt deposits could have accumulated from atmospheric deposition in a period of 200,000 to 2.0 M years during hyper-arid conditions similar to those currently found in the Atacama Desert. Correlations between Δ 17 O and δ 18 O in nitrate salts from the Atacama Desert and Mojave Desert, California, indicate varying fractions of microbial and photochemical end-member sources. The photochemical nitrate isotope signature is well preserved in the driest surficial environments that are almost lifeless, whereas the microbial nitrate isotope signature becomes dominant rapidly with increasing moisture, biologic activity, and nitrogen cycling. These isotopic signatures have important implications for paleoclimate, astrobiology, and N cycling studies.
Developmental changes in the offspring of rats electroshocked during gestation.

Abstract Pregnant Long-Evans rats divided into five groups of three animals each and received electroshock daily starting from day 7, 9, 11, 13, and 15 of gestation, respectively, and terminating in all cases on day 20. Offspring from electroshocked and unshocked mothers were compared from birth through 60 days of age with respect to body weight and growth rate, and at birth and 60 days in terms of brain biochemical parameters. No differences were observed in body weight, either at birth or at 60 days of age, between offspring from electroshocked and unshocked mothers; however, the rate of growth was slower among offspring of electroshocked mothers up to 30 days of age when it proceeded faster than in control offspring. Although all groups showed a declining growth rate between 30 and 60 days, offspring of electroshocked rats maintained a lead over control offspring. At birth, in the offspring from electroshocked mothers, DNA, K, and C1 content in the cerebral cortex was higher and Na content was lower than in control offspring. At 60 days of age, however, no differences in DNA were observed between offspring of electroshocked mothers and control offspring, but the former animals showed lower K and Na content and higher C1 content in the cerebral cortex than control offspring. The changes in DNA and K content at the two ages studied may reflect differences in cell-packing density in the cerebral cortex. The variations observed in cholinesterase activity indicate that maternal electroshock seizure threshold differentially affects CNS cholinergic systems. AChE and BuChE activity in the cerebral cortex at 60 days was lower in the offspring of electroshocked mothers than in control offspring. AChE activity in the cerebellum was lower than that observed in controls among offspring of mothers electroshocked early in pregnancy and higher in the offspring of mothers electroshocked later in pregnancy. BuChE activity in the cerebellum was lower than that of controls in all offspring from electroshocked mothers. AChE and BuChE activity in the hypothalamus was lower than controls among offspring of animals electroshocked from day 7 of gestation and higher than controls among the remaining groups. It is postulated that electroshock during gestation causes alterations in the humoral status of the maternal organism thereby inducing changes to the fetus that are later reflected in the postnatal development of the offspring.
Labyrinth of doom: A device to minimize the “swimmer” component in sediment trap collections

A simple device used to discriminate between “swimmers” and “nonswimmers” in sediment trap collections has been developed. It consists of a series of funnels which concentrate passively sinking material into a central collection tube, whereas swimmers are distributed randomly between the inner and outer collection tubes. The degree to which swimmer/nonswimmer fractionation is achieved depends on the number and spacing of funnels and the ratio of inner to outer collection tube areas. Although inner collection tube samples contain a few swimmers, there are considerably fewer than are collected in cod ends without this device. Furthermore, outer tube contents are devoid of passively sinking material providing a “pure swimmer” fraction which can be compared to inner collection tube contents. This device has been successfully deployed on many occasions in traps of the Soutar (conical) and Knauer (cylindrical) type as part of the VERTEX program in the NE Pacific.
A Probabilistic Risk-Based Approach to Assess NASA Aeronautics Technologies

NASA’s aeronautics research program invests in air-transportation technologies to protect the environment, makes air travel more accessible and affordable for Americans, enables exploration through new aerospace missions, and augments national security. The program will address critical public needs related to reduction of aircraft noise and emissions, and enable new science missions. In this paper, a probabilistic risk-based approach is presented to provide guidance for developing a robust technology portfolio, and to prioritize the most promising technologies required to achieve aeronautics program goals. An assessment of subsonic aircraft emission-reduction technologies is performed to demonstrate how the approach can be used to guide technology investment in the context of limited NASA funding for aeronautics technology research.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
A connected space with a dispersion point without fixed-point property

Abstract In 1986 Hidefumi Katsuura asked whether there is a connected space with a dispersion point that does not have the fixed-point property. We answer this question in the affirmative.
Enhancement of 5-hydroxytryptamine3A receptor function by phorbol 12-myristate, 13-acetate is mediated by protein kinase C and tyrosine kinase activity.

The effects of phorbol 12-myristate, 13-acetate (PMA) on 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)-evoked ion currents in the mouse 5-HT 3A receptor were examined. Perfusion with PMA caused a concentration dependent potentiation of 5-HT mediated currents and increased both potency and efficacy of 5-HT at the 5-HT 3A receptor expressed in Xenopus oocytes. Enhancement of receptor function was partially blocked by injection of oocytes with PKCI, the peptide inhibitor of protein kinase C (PKC). Mutation of all 12 intracellular serine and threonine residues to alanine was without effect on PMA-induced potentiation of 5-HT elicited currents. Mutation of tyrosine 458 in the 5-HT 3A receptor lacking intracellular serines and threonines reduced the PMA-induced potentiation of 5-HT evoked currents by ∼55%. In contrast, mutation of tyrosine 458 in the wild-type receptor did not alter PMA-induced enhancement. The tyrosine kinase inhibitor, lavendustin A, reduced the enhancement of 5-HT 3A receptor mediated currents by PMA in the mu...
Intramolecular Regulatory Interactions in the Src Family Kinase Hck Probed by Mutagenesis of a Conserved Tryptophan Residue

Intramolecular interactions between the Src homology domains (SH2 and SH3) and the catalytic domains of Src family kinases result in repression of catalytic activity. The crystal structure of the Src family kinase Hck, with its regulatory domains intact, has been solved. It predicts that a conserved residue, Trp260, at the end of the linker between the SH2 and the catalytic domains plays an important role in regulation by the SH3 and SH2 domains. We have mutated this residue and compared the activities of C-terminally phosphorylated wild type Hck and W260A Hck. The W260A mutant has a higher specific activity than wild type Hck. The W260A mutant requires autophosphorylation at Tyr416 for full activity, but it is not activated by ligand binding to the SH3 or SH2 domains. This mutation also changes the accessibility of the SH2 and SH3 domains to their cognate peptide ligands. Our results indicate that Trp260 plays a critical role in the coupling of the regulatory domains to the catalytic domain, as well as in positioning the ligand binding surfaces.
Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP), a VIP-like peptide, has prolonged airway smooth muscle relaxant activity

Abstract Pituitary adenylate cyclas—activating peptide (PACAP), a widely distributed peptide belonging to the vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) family of peptides, stimulates the accumulation of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) in many tissues, with greater potency and efficacy than VIP. We report that PACAP-38 was one-third as potent and 70% as efficacious as VIP in producing relaxation of isolated perifused guinea pig strips, although it was approximately twice as effective in stimulating cAMP accumulation. The PACAP-38-induced relaxation, however, was five to eight times as prolonged as that of VIP, and its cAMP stimulation was also more sustained. The prolonged action of PACAP-38 is probably due to its greater resistance to enzymatic degradation. The data suggest that airway relaxation is not solely dependent on the total content of cAMP in airways. PACAP-38 exhibits properties that may be useful in the management of airway constriction.
Envisioning Qualitative Inquiry: A View across Four Decades.

Who are qualitative inquirers, what do they do that makes them a community of practice and how do they assess their work? Qualitative inquiry is a confederacy in the model practiced by the Iroquois of autonomous and independent groups, sharing common terrain, who gather in certain venues for dialogue about similar concerns and disputed controversies. The community of qualitative researchers is also becoming one of an emerging number of interdisciplinarities in academe, scholarly domains characterized by cross‐disciplinary and multidisciplinary activity addressing the complexity of human experience and by endeavors transcending disciplinary boundaries that synthesize and integrate as well as analyze and separate. Having developed from positivist, interpretivist and postpositivist orientations, having contributed to the twentieth century’s critical scholarship in areas such as feminist study and postcolonialism, and having been challenged by the thinking of postmodernists and poststructuralists, qualitative...
Mu Opioid Splice Variant MOR-1K Contributes to the Development of Opioid-Induced Hyperalgesia

Background A subset of the population receiving opioids for the treatment of acute and chronic clinical pain develops a paradoxical increase in pain sensitivity known as opioid-induced hyperalgesia. Given that opioid analgesics are one of few treatments available against clinical pain, it is critical to determine the key molecular mechanisms that drive opioid-induced hyperalgesia in order to reduce its prevalence. Recent evidence implicates a splice variant of the mu opioid receptor known as MOR-1K in the emergence of opioid-induced hyperalgesia. Results from human genetic association and cell signaling studies demonstrate that MOR-1K contributes to decreased opioid analgesic responses and produces increased cellular activity via Gs signaling. Here, we conducted the first study to directly test the role of MOR-1K in opioid-induced hyperalgesia. Methods and Results In order to examine the role of MOR-1K in opioid-induced hyperalgesia, we first assessed pain responses to mechanical and thermal stimuli prior to, during, and following chronic morphine administration. Results show that genetically diverse mouse strains (C57BL/6J, 129S6, and CXB7/ByJ) exhibited different morphine response profiles with corresponding changes in MOR-1K gene expression patterns. The 129S6 mice exhibited an analgesic response correlating to a measured decrease in MOR-1K gene expression levels, while CXB7/ByJ mice exhibited a hyperalgesic response correlating to a measured increase in MOR-1K gene expression levels. Furthermore, knockdown of MOR-1K in CXB7/ByJ mice via chronic intrathecal siRNA administration not only prevented the development of opioid-induced hyperalgesia, but also unmasked morphine analgesia. Conclusions These findings suggest that MOR-1K is likely a necessary contributor to the development of opioid-induced hyperalgesia. With further research, MOR-1K could be exploited as a target for antagonists that reduce or prevent opioid-induced hyperalgesia.
Family dynamics in end-of-life treatment decisions

The decision to withhold or withdraw life-sustaining treatment is now regularly weighed in chronic or terminal illness. Families are usually supportive advocates and concerned surrogate decision makers for patients, although they can also counter the wishes of the patient and disagree with the treatment team. Understanding the range of factors--internal and external, confronting the individual members and the family as a whole--that can influence family responses helps in working with families at this critical juncture in an illness. Interventions to assist the family and treatment team are discussed.
Intelligent Identification of Childhood Musical Murmurs

Heart murmurs are often the first signs of heart valvular disorders. However, most heart murmurs detected in children are innocent musical murmurs (also called Still’s murmurs), which should be distinguished from other murmur types that are mostly pathological, such as regurgitant, obstructive, and flow murmurs. In order to reduce both unnecessary healthcare expenditures and parental anxiety, this study aims to develop algorithms for intelligently identifying musical murmurs in children. Discrete wavelet transform was applied to phonocardiographic signals to extract features. Singular value decomposition was applied on the matrix derived from continuous wavelet transform to extract extra features. The sequential forward feature selection algorithm was then utilized to select significant features. Musical murmurs were subsequently differentiated via a classification procedure consisting of three classification techniques: discriminant analysis, support vector machine, and artificial neural network. The results of 89.02% sensitivity, 84.76% specificity and 87.36% classification accuracy were achieved.
A Framework for Web-Based Interactive Applications of High-Resolution 3D Medical Image Data

With the advances in medical imaging devices, large volumes of high-resolution 3D medical image data have been produced. These high-resolution 3D data are very large in size, and severely stress storage systems and networks. Most existing Web-based 3D medical image interactive applications therefore deal with only low- or medium-resolution image data. While it is possible to download the whole 3D high-resolution image data from the server and perform the image visualization and analysis at the client site, such an alternative is infeasible when the high-resolution data are very huge, and many users concurrently access the server. In this paper, we propose a novel framework for Web-based interactive applications of high-resolution 3D medical image data. Specifically, we first partition the whole 3D data into buckets, and then compress each bucket separately. We also propose an indexing structure for these buckets to efficiently support typical queries such as 3D slicer and region of interest (ROI), and only the relevant buckets are transmitted instead of the whole high-resolution 3D medical image data. Furthermore, in order to better support concurrent accesses and to improve the average response time, we also propose some techniques for bucket group access on the server side and incremental transmission. Our experimental study based on a human brain MRI data set indicates that the proposed framework can significantly reduce storage and communication requirements, and can enable real-time interaction with remote high-resolution 3D medical image data for many concurrent users
Teaching Rate Conversion using Hardware-Based DSP

To enable us to affordably teach software defined radio at the undergraduate level, we developed a low cost system that allows realistic hardware projects and demonstrations. This new board connects a Texas Instruments C67x DSP starter kit (DSK) to an analog devices AD9857 quadrature modulator. This modulator is capable of operating at up to 200 million samples per second (MS/s), with a carrier (or intermediate frequency) of up to 80 MHz. Baseband 14-bit in-phase and quadrature (I/Q) data are presented to the modulator, which can be programmed to interpolate the data at rates from 4x to 252x. The AD9857 is interfaced to the DSK using an Altera Cyclone FPGA which provides queuing of the I/Q data and the logic for control/programming of the modulator. This paper describes the associated hardware and software issues and briefly describes recommended classroom use.
Evaluation of shortcomings of manufacturing processes knowledge and evolution of remedies

Requirements, learning activities and learning assessment techniques used in teaching of planning of discrete part manufacturing are described in this paper. Results of various surveys demonstrate that industry accords big importance to engineering graduates' fluency in manufacturing processes. Assessment of student learning and knowledge is done through group and individual assignments. A strong emphasis is put on defining requirements for various properties of manufactured parts and simple assemblies, metrics for these properties, as well as on finding alternate ways (processes) that can fulfill these requirements. The properties are mainly from five groups: functional, physical, geometric, aesthetic and economic. Shortcomings of students' knowledge in the field of manufacturing processes, evolution of assignments to remedy them are also described. The assignments and a range of teaching aids are described in terms of learning effectiveness (evaluated by observed technical merit of results and by student surveys) and in terms of learning time efficiency (student surveys).
Organizational Dynamic Capability and Innovation: An Empirical Examination of Internet Firms

This paper extends the dynamic capability perspective into the study of innovation by entrepreneurial firms. Drawing from both the resource‐based view and the dynamic capability perspective, this p...
Neonatal Vein of Galen Malformations: Experience in Developing a Multidisciplinary Approach Using an Embolization Treatment Protocol

A multidisciplinary team approach using a staged transcatheter embolization and neurosurgical protocol was applied to 22 patients with neonatal presentation of vein of Galen malformations over a 12 year period. Aggressive medical therapy was combined with interventions including: ventricular shunting, transcatheter embolization, retrograde transtorcular embolization, and neurosurgical obliteration. There was a high frequency of high output cardiac failure, multiple organ system dysfunction, seizures, hydrocephalus, visual, developmental and neurological disability. Of the first 11 patients, five survived; four with seizures and three with marked retardation. Of the last 11 patients, six survived; five with seizures but only one with retardation. Despite persistently high morbidity and mortality, our continuously evolving protocol offers these otherwise hopeless patients some chance of survival.
CICATRIZATION OF WOUNDS : X. A GENERAL EQUATION FOR THE LAW OF CICATRIZATION OF SURFACE WOUNDS.

1. The law of cicatrization, of surface wounds may be expressed by an exponential formula in which the two coefficients may be determined. 2. A simple relation exists between these coefficients and the index, i, of cicatrization, previously established in function of the age of the patient and of the area of the wound. 3. The proposed equation with a simplified exponent, reduced to a single coefficient, expresses satisfactorily the phenomenon of contraction.
From SuperGoo to Scratch: exploring creative digital media production in informal learning

Based on work in media studies, new literacy studies, applied linguistics, the arts and empirical research on the experiences of urban youths' informal media arts practices we articulate a new vision for media education in the digital age that encompasses new genres, convergence, media mixes, and participation. We first outline the history of how students' creative production has been used to meet the goals of media educators and highlight new trends in media education that are instructive for creative production. Our goal is to introduce and situate the new ways in which youth are participating in creative production and the subsequent impact that this might have on teaching and learning media education today. Findings from an ethnographic study are used to demonstrate the potential of youth producing new media, such as videogames and interactive art, on media education research and practice.
Prediction of active sites for protein structures from computed chemical properties

Motivation: Identification of functional information for a protein from its three-dimensional (3D) structure is a major challenge in genomics. The power of theoretical microscopic titration curves (THEMATICS), when coupled with a statistical analysis, provides a method for high-throughput screening for identification of catalytic sites and binding sites with high accuracy and precision. The method requires only the 3D structure of the query protein as input, but it performs as well as other methods that depend on sequence alignments and structural similarities. Contact: m.ondrechen@neu.edu
High resolution in vivo intra-arterial imaging with optical coherence tomography

Background—Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a new method of catheter based micron scale imaging. OCT is analogous to ultrasound, measuring the intensity of backreflected infrared light rather than sound waves. Objective—To demonstrate the ability of OCT to perform high resolution imaging of arterial tissue in vivo. Methods—OCT imaging of the abdominal aorta of New Zealand white rabbits was performed using a 2.9 F OCT imaging catheter. Using an ultrashort pulse laser as a light source for imaging, an axial resolution of 10 µm was achieved. Results—Imaging was performed at 4 frames/second and data were saved in either super VHS or digital format. Saline injections were required during imaging because of the signal attenuation caused by blood. Microstructure was sharply defined within the arterial wall and correlated with histology. Some motion artefacts were noted at 4 frames/second. Conclusions—In vivo imaging of the rabbit aorta was demonstrated at a source resolution of 10 µm, but required the displacement of blood with saline. The high resolution of OCT allows imaging to be performed near the resolution of histopathology,oVering the potential to have an impact both on the identification of high risk plaques and the guidance of interventional procedures. (Heart 1999;82:128‐133)
More English than the English: Cavalier and Democrat in Virginia Historical Writing, 1870–1930

Mythologie democratique et aristocratique du cavalier et tradition anglo-virginienne dans l'historiographie du colonialisme sudiste
Resistance to Russian Wheat Aphid Biotype 2 in CIMMYT Synthetic Hexaploid Wheat Lines

The Russian wheat aphid, Diuraphis noxia (Kurdjumov) (Hemiptera: Aphididae), devastates wheat and barley production on all continents except Australia. Although D. noxia-resistant cultivars exist, virulent D. noxia populations exist in Asia, North America, and South America that have the ability to overcome resistance. In this study, synthetic hexaploid wheat genotypes created at the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) were evaluated and characterized for resistance to North American biotype 2 (RWA2). Fewer RWA2 were produced on several genotypes, and D. noxia-induced leaf rolling and chlorosis were reduced on these genotypes as well. Aphid numbers were positively correlated with chlorosis and with leaf rolling. However, some genotypes were highly resistant to leaf rolling and chlorosis while supporting large RWA2 populations. There were negative correlations between leaf chlorosis and leaf dry weight (r = -0.267, df = 106, P = 0.006) and between aphid numbers and leaf dry weight (r = -0.297, df = 105, P = 0.002). These results indicate that chlorosis and aphid number individually explain at least 27% of the changes observed in leaf dry weights. Interestingly, there was no correlation between leaf rolling and leaf dry weight. The RWA2-resistant lines identified, which are also resistant to D. noxia populations in Mexico and to greenbug (Schizaphis graminum Rondani) biotype G, are strong candidates for use in improving the genetic diversity in bread wheat for resistance to different biotypes of both S. graminum and D. noxia.
Physician self-referral and imaging use appropriateness: negative cervical spine MRI frequency as an assessment metric.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Imaging self-referral is increasingly cited as a contributor to diagnostic imaging overuse. The purpose of this study was to determine whether ownership of MR imaging equipment by ordering physicians influences the frequency of negative cervical spine MR imaging findings. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective review was performed of 500 consecutive cervical spine MRIs ordered by 2 separate referring-physician groups serving the same geographic community. The first group owned the scanners used and received technical fees for their use, while the second group did not. Final reports were reviewed, and for each group, the percentage of negative study findings and the frequency of abnormalities were calculated. The number of concomitant shoulder MRIs was recorded. RESULTS: Five hundred MRIs meeting inclusion criteria were reviewed (250 with financial interest, 250 with no financial interest). Three hundred fifty-two had negative findings (190 with financial interest, 162 with no financial interest); there were 17.3% more scans with negative findings in the financial interest group ( P = .006). Among scans with positive findings, there was no significant difference in the mean number of lesions per scan, controlled for age (1.90 with financial interest, 2.19 with no financial interest; P = .23). Patients in the financial interest group were more likely to undergo concomitant shoulder MR imaging (24 with financial interest, 11 with no financial interest; P = .02). CONCLUSIONS: Cervical spine MRIs referred by physicians with a financial interest in the imaging equipment used were significantly more likely to have negative findings. There was otherwise a highly similar distribution and severity of disease between the 2 patient samples. Patients in the financial interest group were more likely to undergo concomitant shoulder MR imaging.
Magnetism in meteorites

An overview is presented of magnetism in meteorites. A glossary of magnetism terminology followed by discussion of the various techniques used for magnetism studies in meteorites are included. The generalized results from use of these techniques by workers in the field are described. A brief critical analysis is offered.
Coordinated postnatal down-regulation of multiple growth-promoting genes: evidence for a genetic program limiting organ growth

Children grow, but adults do not. The cessation of growth in multiple organs is the end result of a progressive decline in cell proliferation beginning in early life. The mechanisms responsible for this growth deceleration are largely unknown. Using expression microarray and real-time PCR, we identified a common program of gene expression in lung, kidney, and liver during growth deceleration in juvenile rats. Gene ontology analyses and siRNA-mediated knockdown in vitro indicated that many of the down-regulated genes are growth promoting. Down-regulated genes in the program showed declining histone H3K4 trimethylation with age, implicating underlying epigenetic mechanisms. To investigate the physiological processes driving the genetic program, a tryptophan-deficient diet was used to temporarily inhibit juvenile growth in newborn rats for 4 wk. Afterward, microarray analysis showed that the genetic program had been delayed, implying that it is driven by body growth itself rather than age. Taken together, the findings suggest that growth in early life induces progressive down-regulation of a large set of proliferation-stimulating genes, causing organ growth to slow and eventually cease.—Lui, J. C., Forcinito, P., Chang, M., Chen, W., Barnes, K. M., Baron, J. Coordinated postnatal down-regulation of multiple growth-promoting genes: evidence for a genetic program limiting organ growth.
Light-Weight, Runtime Verification of Query Sources

Modern database systems increasingly make use of networked storage. This storage can be in the form of SAN's or in the form of shared-nothing nodes in a cluster. One type of attack on databases is arbitrary modification of data in a database through the file system, bypassing database access control. Additionally, for many applications, ensuring strict and definite authenticity of query source and results is required or highly desirable. In this paper, we propose a lightweight approach for verifying the minimum information that a database server needs from the storage system to execute a query. The verification is definite and produces high confidence results because of its online manner (i.e., the information is verified right before it is used). It is lightweight in three ways: (1) We use the Merkle hash tree data structure and fast cryptographic hash functions to ensure the verification itself is fast and secure; (2) We verify the minimum number of bytes needed to ensure the authenticity of the source related to the query result; and (3) We achieve high concurrency of multiple reader and writer transactions and avoid delays due to locking by using the compare-and-swap primitive. We then prove the correctness and progress guarantees of the algorithms using concepts from the theory of distributed computing. We also analyze the performance of the algorithm. Finally, we perform a comprehensive empirical study on various parameter choices and on the system performance and concurrency with our approaches.
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Sedimentary Records of Biomass Burning

Lacustrine and coastal marine sediments often contain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) of combustion origin. Many higher molecular weight PAH, like charcoal, are hydrophobic and resistant to biodegradation. Recent studies are presented here which indicate that the stratification of PAH in bottom sediments can provide a useful historical record of combustion activity, ranging back millions of years. The distribution of individual PAH in environmental samples often has been used to infer their source. However, this PAH “fingerprint” is affected not only by the combustion conditions and fuel, but also by transport and transformation processes that affect PAH as they runoff from land or move through the atmosphere and water to the sediments. Recent studies, though sparse, suggest that non-linear, higher-molecular-weight PAH sorbed on aerosol black carbon are most resistant to alteration during long-range environmental transport. During the past century there has been a large increase in sedimentary PAH derived from fossil fuel combustion. The latter qualitatively produces PAH distributions similar to biomass burning. The use of new techniques, such as compound-specific isotope analysis (CSIA), which allow for the isotopic determinations of individual compounds, has shown great promise for apportioning PAH sources, e.g. fossil fuel or biomass burning.
Sideroblastic anemia in multiple myeloma: a preleukemic change.

In a 10-yr observation period, 75 patients with multiple myeloma have been studied, and 55 of these were treated daily with low dose melphalan by mouth. Of these, four developed sideroblastic anemia, manifested by anemia, thrombocytopenia, aniso-poikilocytosis, and hypochromic stippled cells in the blood, and ringed sideroblasts in the bone marrow. In two patients, this complication occurred after more than 7 yr of therapy and at a time when there was no evidence of myeloma. In a third patient, it occurred when the myeloma relapsed, and in the fourth, myeloma was active but stable. The anemia did not respond to either folate or pyridoxine. In all four patients, acute myelomonoblastic leukemia developed within 6 mo after sideroblastic anemia had been detected. These observations suggest that sideroblastic anemia in myeloma is a preleukemic manifestation.
Interactions between Cooccurring Lactic Acid Bacteria in Honey Bee Hives

In contrast to the honey bee gut, which is colonized by a few characteristic bacterial clades, the hive of the honey bee is home to a diverse array of microbes, including many lactic acid bacteria (LAB). In this study, we used culture, combined with sequencing, to sample the LAB communities found across hive environments. Specifically, we sought to use network analysis to identify microbial hubs sharing nearly identical operational taxonomic units, evidence which may indicate cooccurrence of bacteria between environments. In the process, we identified interactions between noncore bacterial members (Fructobacillus and Lactobacillaceae) and honey bee-specific "core" members. Both Fructobacillus and Lactobacillaceae colonize brood cells, bee bread, and nectar and may serve the role of pioneering species, establishing an environment conducive to the inoculation by honey bee core bacteria. Coculture assays showed that these noncore bacterial members promote the growth of honey bee-specific bacterial species. Specifically, Fructobacillus by-products in spent medium supported the growth of the Firm-5 honey bee-specific clade in vitro. Metabolic characterization of Fructobacillus using carbohydrate utilization assays revealed that this strain is capable of utilizing the simple sugars fructose and glucose, as well as the complex plant carbohydrate lignin. We tested Fructobacillus for antibiotic sensitivity and found that this bacterium, which may be important for establishment of the microbiome, is sensitive to the commonly used antibiotic tetracycline. Our results point to the possible significance of "noncore" and environmental microbial community members in the modulation of honey bee microbiome dynamics and suggest that tetracycline use by beekeepers should be limited.
Assessment of Human Genitourinary Tumors and Chemosensitivity Testing In 3-Dimensional Collagen Gel Culture

Abstract A recently described collagen gel culture technique has been modified to evaluate the growth characteristics and chemosensitivity patterns of genitourinary neoplasms. Fresh human surgical explants incorporated radiolabeled DNA precursors ((H3)thymidine or deoxyuridine) in 97% of 38 patient specimens (18/19 bladder, 3/3 prostate, 2/2 testis, 13/14 renal), after being maintained for three to 13 weeks/passage, with several specimens reaching their sixth passage (20 months). Control cellular DNA incorporation ranged from five to 90% (#cells labeled/#cells evaluated), with median labeling for bladder 30%, prostate 80%, testis 90%, and renal 80%. Original histopathologic classification was maintained in all cases. Tumor volume and glucose consumption were other measurable parameters. Seventy-three surgical specimen cultures were treated with chemotherapeutic agents after a minimum of four weeks in culture. Single agent exposures were 24 hours at lx and 10X reported peak plasma concentrations. Combination agents were sequenced as in current clinical protocol for bladder tumors and fourteen day continuous fluorodeoxyuridine (FdURD) exposure for renal tumors. Sensitivity was found in 1/2 prostate and 1/10 renal tumors to Adriamycin, 8/15 bladder and 1/2 testis tumors to cisplatin, 11/28 renal tumors to FdURD and 6/ 16 bladder tumors to MVAC combination chemotherapy. This culture system offers the advantages of in vivo-like solid tumor growth, a high culture success rate, longevity in culture, maintenance of the primary histopathology and reproducible chemosensitivity response. (J. Urol., 143:1041-1045, 1990)
Understanding Collaborative Value Creation by Environmental Nonprofit and Renewable Energy Business Partnerships

Many environmental nonprofit organizations (ENPOs) seek to create sustainability value by promoting environmental principles and influencing policymakers to support pro-environmental legislation. One strategy used by ENPOs to enhance the value creation process is the development of partnerships with businesses. Semi-structured interviews with leaders of six national ENPOs in the United States were conducted to examine the sources and types of value created by collaborations with renewable energy businesses, and the partnership processes and outcomes that are most desirable. The goal was to understand how and why ENPOs seek partnerships, what the potential benefits are, and whether or not ENPO leadership orientation, as characterized by their perceptions of the political opportunity structure, political ideology, and environmental philosophy, led to different views of partnerships for sustainability value creation. The finding that differences in the partnership perspectives of the ENPO leadership did not directly link to differences in the leadership orientations suggests that none of the orientations precluded partnering in general and may even have been enablers in some cases.
Transcriptional networks of murine diabetic peripheral neuropathy and nephropathy: common and distinct gene expression patterns

Aims/hypothesis Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) and diabetic nephropathy (DN) are two common microvascular complications of type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus that are associated with a high degree of morbidity. In this study, using a variety of systems biology approaches, our aim was to identify common and distinct mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of these two complications.
A robotic approach to mapping post-eruptive volcanic fissure conduits

VolcanoBot was developed to map volcanic vents and their underlying conduit systems, which are rarely preserved and generally inaccessible to human exploration. It uses a PrimeSense Carmine 1.09 sensor for mapping and carries an IR temperature sensor, analog distance sensor, and an inertial measurement unit (IMU) inside a protective shell. The first field test succeeded in collecting valuable scientific data but revealed several needed improvements, including more rugged cable connections and mechanical couplers, increased ground clearance, and higher-torque motors for uphill mobility. The second field test significantly improved on all of these aspects but it traded electrical ruggedness for reduced data collection speed. Data collected by the VolcanoBots, while intermittent, yield the first insights into the cm-scale geometry of volcanic fissures at depths of up to 25 m. VolcanoBot was deployed at the 1969 Mauna Ulu fissure system on Kīlauea volcano in Hawai'i. It collected first-of-its-kind data from inside the fissure system. We hypothesized that 1) fissure sinuosity should decrease with depth, 2) irregularity should be persistent with depth, 3) any blockages in the conduit should occur at the narrowest points, and 4) the fissure should narrow with depth until it is too narrow for VolcanoBot to pass or is plugged with solidified lava. Our field campaigns did not span enough lateral or vertical area to test sinuosity. The preliminary data indicate that 1) there were many irregularities along fissures at depth, 2) blockages occurred, but not at obviously narrow locations, and 3) the conduit width remained a consistent 0.4–0.5 m for most of the upper 10 m that we analyzed.
Electrically Modulated Drug Delivery using Nanoporous Electrodes

Nanoporous electrodes, such as those made from carbon or gold, can capture and release ionic analytes at concentrations near 1 mole per liter of pore volume through capacitive charging or electrochemically reversible adsorption. In vitro studies suggest that this phenomenon can be the basis for a noninvasive, precise, and programmable drug delivery method. It would eliminate the need for bulk fluid delivery to target tissue and require only a thin electrical connection, minimizing pain and tissue disruption. We have designed effective gold electrode assemblies and observed the depletion and release phenomena using electrochemical methods and charged dyes.
Analysis of a Commercial Marijuana e-Cigarette Formulation

Personal battery-powered vaporizers or electronic cigarettes were developed to deliver a nicotine vapor such that smokers could simulate smoking tobacco without the inherent pathology of inhaled tobacco smoke. With four states within the USA having legalized the cultivation, distribution and recreational use of marijuana and an additional 23 states plus the District of Columbia with laws that legalize marijuana in some form, it was inevitable that suppliers of legal marijuana would develop marijuana products for use in these electronic cigarettes. Presented is the analysis of one such marijuana electronic cigarette formulation sold under the brand name Liberty Reach. The cannabinoid concentrations in Liberty Reach as determined by high-performance liquid chromatography-triple quadrapole mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS-MS) were Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, 42.6% (w/v) and cannabidiol 0.5% (w/v). These concentrations were significantly lower than the labeled 69% Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and 1% cannabidiol. Furthermore, 4 cannabinoids, 13 marijuana terpenes, and propylene glycol were identified by a combination of Direct Analysis in Real Time-AccuTOF™ mass spectrometry (DART-MS), HPLC-MS-MS and gas chromatography-MS.
Nine Tips for Creating an Effective Extended School Year Program for Students With Disabilities

Extended school year (ESY) is a summer program available for students with disabilities who meet specific qualifying criteria. Teachers are often hesitant to accept the position of the ESY teacher due to the ambiguities and demands of the position. The purpose of this article is to briefly share the impetus and focus of ESY and give special education teachers nine tips to create and execute an effective ESY program. When implemented correctly, ESY programs have the potential to help students maintain learned skills and master targeted skills.
Screening for Barrett's Esophagus by Balloon Cytology

Objective : to determine whether balloon cytology would allow a nonendoscopic diagnosis of Barrett's esophagus. Methods : In 10 unselected patients with Barrett's esophagus, balloon cytology was performed with a Brandt esophageal cytology balloon catheter prior to endoscopy/esophageal biopsy. Specimens were cytologically evaluated for the presence of goblet cells and/or dysplasia. Results : No patient had goblet cells or definitive columnar cell dysplasia. Conclusion : This technique with a commercially available balloon catheter does not allow for a nonendoscopic diagnosis of Barrett's esophagus.