cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Representation of shape, space, and attention in monkey cortex.

Abstract Attentional deficits are core to numerous developmental, neurological, and psychiatric disorders. At the single-cell level, much knowledge has been garnered from studies of shape and spatial properties, as well as from numerous demonstrations of attentional modulation of those properties. Despite this wealth of knowledge of single-cell responses across many brain regions, little is known about how these cellular characteristics relate to population level representations and how such representations relate to behavior; in particular, how these cellular responses relate to the representation of shape, space, and attention, and how these representations differ across cortical areas and streams. Here we will emphasize the role of population coding as a missing link for connecting single-cell properties with behavior. Using a data-driven intrinsic approach to population decoding, we show that both ‘what’ and ‘where’ cortical visual streams encode shape, space, and attention, yet demonstrate striking differences in these representations. We suggest that both pathways fully process shape and space, but that differences in representation may arise due to their differing functions and input and output constraints. Moreover, differences in the effects of attention on shape and spatial population representations in the two visual streams suggest two distinct strategies: in a ventral area, attention or task demands modulate the population representations themselves (perhaps to expand or enhance one part at the expense of other parts) while in a dorsal area, at a population representation level, attention effects are weak and nearly non-existent, perhaps in order to maintain veridical representations needed for visuomotor control. We show that an intrinsic approach, as opposed to theory-driven and labeled approaches, is useful for understanding how representations develop and differ across brain regions. Most importantly, these approaches help link cellular properties more tightly with behavior, a much-needed step to better understand and interpret cellular findings and key to providing insights to improve interventions in human disorders.
Improved overall survival of melanoma of the head and neck treated with Mohs micrographic surgery versus wide local excision

Background Optimal surgical management for melanoma of the head and neck remains controversial. Objective Assess outcomes for melanomas of the head and neck treated with Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) versus wide local excision (WLE) from the National Cancer Database. Methods Head and neck melanoma data from the National Cancer Database from years 2004-2015 were analyzed. Results In total, 50,397 cases of head and neck melanoma were reviewed; 3510 (7%) were treated with MMS and 46,887 (93%) with WLE. After controlling for potential confounding variables, patients treated with MMS were more likely than patients treated with WLE to survive after 5 years (hazard ratio [HR] 1.181, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.083-1.288; P Limitations Database study, limited number of MMS treated melanomas. Conclusion MMS is a valid treatment option for melanoma of the head and neck; National Cancer Database data suggests that MMS might confer a survival benefit over WLE.
The association between pain clinic laws and prescription opioid exposures: New evidence from multi-state comparisons.

Abstract Objectives States in the US are controlling opioid prescribing to combat the opioid epidemic. Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs) were widely adopted, whereas less attention was given to pain clinic laws. This study examined the associations of mandatory use of PDMPs and pain clinic laws with prescription opioid exposures. Methods State-level quarterly prescription opioid exposures reported to the National Poison Data System during 2010–2017 were analyzed. The primary outcome was age-adjusted rates of prescription opioid exposures per 1,000,000 population. The primary policy variables included the implementation of mandatory use of PDMPs alone, the implementation of pain clinic laws alone, and the implementation of both mandatory use of PDMPs and pain clinic laws. Linear regressions were used to examine the associations, controlling for other opioid policies, marijuana policies, socioeconomic factors, state fixed effects, time fixed effects, and state-specific time trends. Results Requiring mandatory use of PDMPs alone was not associated with significant changes in prescription opioid exposures. The implementation of pain clinic laws with or without concurrent mandatory use of PDMPs was associated with 5 fewer prescription opioid exposures per 1,000,000 population or a 9 % reduction compared to the pre-policy period (p Conclusions This multi-state study provided new evidence that the implementation of pain clinic laws was associated with a significant reduction in prescription opioid exposures. Pain clinic laws may deserve further evaluation and consideration.
An Initial Effort to Create a Superficial Femoral Artery Ultrasound Phantom Using 3-Dimensional Printing:

Three-dimensional (3D) printing of anatomical structures has yielded valuable models for simulation, education, and surgical planning applications. Applications for 3D printing have continued to ex...
The thermodynamic basis of the stability of proteins, nucleic acids, and membranes.

Publisher Summary The contributions of the polar and nonpolar components of the proteins and nucleic acids can be regarded as constituting the bricks and mortar, respectively, of the two structures. This chapter describes the changes in enthalpy and entropy of reactions as diverse as denaturation, ligand binding, and self-association display a characteristic dependence on temperature, which is not evident in the free energy changes. The chapter focuses on comparing the energetic data on protein reactions with similar data on model systems to evaluate the contributions of the various groups to the thermodynamic parameters of protein reactions. The folding of the proteins is different from that of the nucleic acids, because the energetics of the interactions with water of the nonpolar side chains and bases are different, and owing to the planarity and partial polar properties of the purine and pyrimidine bases, they cluster by forming stacks. The thermodynamic parameters responsible for polypeptide folding are similar to those found for other protein reactions—that is, ligand binding, or subunit association, because they are controlled by the interactions of the same groups with water. The stability of the folded conformations is controlled largely by the interactions of the nonpolar side chains of the amino acids and the purine and pyrimidine bases with water. Although, nucleic acids do not show the low-temperature dissociation found with numerous protein aggregates, however, they show only positive values for these two functions.
Rapid genotypic antibiotic susceptibility test using CRISPR-Cas12a for urinary tract infection

The current clinical protocol to conduct a bacterial antibiotic susceptibility test (AST) requires at least 18 hours, and cannot be accomplished during a single visit for patients. Here, a new method based on the technique of CRISPR-Cas12a is utilized to accomplish a bacterial genotypic AST within one hour with good accuracy. Two amplification approaches are employed and compared: (1) enriching the bacterial concentration by culturing in growth media; and (2) amplifying target DNA from raw samples by recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA). The results show that CRISPR combined with RPA can rapidly and accurately provide a bacterial genotypic AST of urine samples with urinary tract infections for precise antibiotic treatment. As such, this technology could open a new class of rapid bacterial genotypic AST for various infectious diseases.
A sparsity-constrained sampling method with applications to communications and inverse scattering

We introduce the sparse direct sampling method (DSM) to estimate properties of a region from signals that probe the region. We demonstrate the sparse-DSM on two separate problems: estimating both the angle-of-arrival of a radio wave impinging on an array and the location and shape of an inhomogeneity from scattered acoustic waves. The sparse-DSM is qualitative in nature, so it does not require the simulation of a forward problem to solve the inverse problem. The method generalizes of two older qualitative methods, one which has low-resolution reconstructions but uses few measurements and one which is high-resolution but has higher measurement cost. The sparse-DSM inherits positive qualities from both. We demonstrate the technique on measured and simulated examples.
Challenges in Brain Death Determination and Apnea Testing for Patients with COVID-19.

Abstract Introduction Apnea testing remains essential for the clinical evaluation of brain death determination. In patients who test positive for SARS-CoV-2, disconnecting the patient from the ventilator and introducing high flow oxygen into the endotracheal tube increases the risk for aerosolization of airway secretions and exposure of the examiner. Methods Case report of a patient with an intracerebral hemorrhage that evolved to significant cerebral edema and herniation, who underwent apnea test using a method involving a t-piece and an HME filter. Results Patient successfully pronounced brain dead using a safe method to minimize exposure to SARS-CoV-2. Conclusion At a time where healthcare workers are at high risk of exposure to COVID-19, the above described method is a safe process for apnea testing in declaration of brain death.
Notes from the Valley of Death: A Case for Entrepreneurship in Architecture

Rather than serve individual clients, architects can pursue an entrepreneurial path by identifying current problems in culture, environment, and society in order to propose patentable solutions or ...
Tumor resident regulatory T cells

The immune system mediates powerful effector mechanisms to protect against a diversity of pathogens and equally as important regulatory functions, to limit collateral damage of inflammation, prevent misguided immune responses to "self", and promote tissue repair. Inadequate regulatory control can lead to a variety of inflammatory disorders including autoimmunity, metabolic syndrome, allergies, and progression of malignancies. Cancers evolve complex mechanisms to thwart immune eradication including coopting normal host regulatory processes. This is most evident in the analysis of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), where a preponderance of immunosuppressive immune cells, such as regulatory T (Treg) cells are found. Treg cells express the X-chromosome linked transcription factor Foxp3 and play a crucial role in maintaining immune homeostasis by suppressing inflammatory responses in diverse biological settings. Treg cells in the tumor microenvironment promote tumor development and progression by dampening anti-tumor immune responses, directly supporting the survival of transformed cells through elaboration of growth factors, and interacting with accessory cells in tumors such as fibroblasts and endothelial cells. Current insights into the phenotype and function of tumor associated Treg cells have opened up opportunities for their selective targeting in cancer with the goal of alleviating their suppression of anti-tumor immune responses while maintaining overall immune homeostasis. Here, we review Treg cell biology in the context of the tumor microenvironment (TME), and the important role they play in cancer immunotherapy.
Deep MVA: Deep Learning for Margin Valuation Adjustment of Callable Products

Regulatory initial margin (IM) is being implemented across the financial industry in accordance with BCBS-IOSCO requirements. The regulations target uncleared over-the-counter derivative trading and, among other issues, aim to mitigate counter party credit risk by defining a comprehensive set of rules for initial margin between trading parties. Computing the funding costs of IM, or Margin Valuation Adjustment (MVA), is a major challenge for xVA systems as it requires the future projection of dynamic IM positions. This is particularly challenging for callable products, such as Bermudan swaptions which are complex to price and require path wise exercise tracking in exposure simulations. Brute force simulation of future IM is not feasible due to the excessive computational demands of model calibration and numerical pricing methods. Approximate MVA methods, such as regression techniques, are difficult to design due to the high-dimensionality of the problem. In this paper, we propose a method based on Deep Neural Networks to approximate the Bermudan swaption pricing function and sensitivities. We exploit neural network's high-dimensionality and universal approximation properties to train networks based on prices and sensitivities generated from existing numerical pricing models. The trained neural networks are then used for extremely fast IM simulation where computationally intense numerical methods are replaced by optimized and hardware accelerated neural network inference. We demonstrate that the neural network models deliver exceptional performance, capable of pricing Bermudan Swaption MVAs over 100,000 times faster than traditional approaches while maintaining a high degree of accuracy.
Western-style diet induces insulin insensitivity and hyperactivity in adolescent male rats

The prevalence of obesity in children and adolescents has increased rapidly over the past 30 years, as has the incidence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In 2012, it was found that overweight children have a twofold higher chance of developing ADHD than their normal weight counterparts. Previous work has documented learning and memory impairments linked to consumption of an energy-dense diet in rats, but the relationship between diet and ADHD-like behaviors has yet to be explored using animal models. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the role of diet in the etiology of attention and hyperactivity disorders using a rat model of diet-induced obesity. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed either a control diet or a Western-style diet (WSD) for ten weeks, and specific physiological and behavioral effects were examined. Tail blood samples were collected to measure fasting blood glucose and insulin levels in order to assess insulin insensitivity. Rats also performed several behavioral tasks, including the open field task, novel object recognition test, and attentional set-shifting task. Rats exposed to a WSD had significantly higher fasting insulin levels than controls, but both groups had similar glucose levels. The quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI) indicated the development of insulin resistance in WSD rats. Performance in the open field test indicated that WSD induced pronounced hyperactivity and impulsivity. Further, control diet animals were able to discriminate between old and novel objects, but the WSD animals were significantly impaired in object recognition. However, regardless of dietary condition, rats were able to perform the attentional set-shifting paradigm. While WSD impaired episodic memory and induced hyperactivity, attentional set-shifting capabilities are unaffected. With the increasing prevalence of both obesity and ADHD, understanding the potential links between the two conditions is of clinical relevance.
A healthcare information system with augmented access controls

In the healthcare industry, the old paper-based record is becoming a thing of the past and more and more patient information is being transferred into the digital format, that is, Electronic Medical Record (EMR). It integrates heterogeneous information within the Healthcare Information Systems (HIS) stressing the need for augmented security, availability and access controls. We demonstrate our prototype system that incorporates the isolation and delegation components based on the real world HIS software OpenEMR. This system is targeted at enhancing the usability of contemporary HISs without degrading the system security.
Regulation of two E2F-related genes in presenescent and senescent human fibroblasts

Several mammalian genes expressed in late G1 are positively regulated by E2F, a heterodimeric transcription factor. Genes encoding two E2F proteins, E2F-1 and DP-1, were regulated differently during the cell cycle and replicative senescence of normal human fibroblasts. In presenescent cells, E2F-1 mRNA was cell-cycle regulated, appearing a few hours before S phase. By contrast, DP-1 mRNA was constitutively expressed, independent of position in the cell cycle. After a finite number of divisions, normal cells enter a state of irreversible growth arrest termed senescence. Many genes remain mitogen-inducible in senescent cells; there are, however, exceptions, including several late G1 genes potentially regulated by E2F. Senescent cells expressed DP-1 at the presenescent level, but did not express E2F-1 mRNA. Senescent cells were also markedly deficient in E2F binding activity associated with the dihydrofolate reductase promoter. E2F-1 and DP-1 expression vectors only weakly induced DNA synthesis in quiescent or senescent human cells and immortal murine NIH3T3 cells, although the E2F-1 vector stimulated DNA synthesis in immortal murine A31 cells, and transactivated E2F-responsive promoters in NIH3T3 cells. The results suggest that senescent cells may fail to express late G1 genes due to repression of E2F-1, leading to a deficiency of E2F activity. Furthermore, although E2F-1 stimulates DNA synthesis in some cells, other cells, including normal human fibroblasts, require additional factors.
Handbook of Wood Chemistry and Wood Composites

Preface Wood and Society, Christopher D. Risbrudt STRUCTURE AND CHEMISTRY Structure and Function of Wood, Alex C. Wiedenhoeft and Regis B. Miller Cell Wall Chemistry, Roger M. Rowell, Roger Pettersen, James S. Han, Jeffrey S. Rowell, and Mandla A. Tshabalala PROPERTIES Moisture Properties, Roger M. Rowell Biological Properties, Rebecca E. Ibach Thermal Properties, Roger M. Rowell and Susan L. LeVan-Green Weathering of Wood, R. Sam Williams Surface Characterization, Mandla A. Tshabalala WOOD COMPOSITES Wood Adhesion and Adhesives, Charles R. Frihart Wood Composites, Lars Bergland and Roger M. Rowell Chemistry of Wood Strength, Jerrold E. Winandy and Roger M. Rowell Fiber Webs, Roger M. Rowell, James S. Han and Von Y. Byrd Wood Thermoplastic Composites, Daniel F. Caulfield, Craig Clemons, Rodney E. Jacobson, and Roger M. Rowell PROPERTY IMPROVEMENTS Chemical Modification of Wood, Roger M. Rowell Lumen Modifications, Rebecca E. Ibach and W. Dale Ellis Plasma Treatment of Wood, Ferencz S. Denes, L. Emilio Cruz-Barba, and Sorin Manolache
Feedback Linearization and Control of NASA SCOLE System by Output Feedback

We treat the question of large rotational maneuver and vibration stabilization of NASA Spacecraft Control Laboratory Experiment system (SCOLE). The mathematical model of SCOLE system includes the dynamical equations for rigid body slew maneuver and three-dimensional vibration of the rigid shuttle, the flexible beam and the reflector with an offset mass. The design approach taken here is to decompose the rigid mode control from vibration stabilization. Feedback input (Shuttle torque)-output (attitude angles) map linearization technique is used for designing attitude control system for large-angle slewing. Linearization of input-output (i-o) map is accomplished by nonlinear inversion theory. It is shown that attitude control system asymptotically decouples the flexible dynamics and linear feedback law is easily designed for vibration suppression. For the synthesis of the control law an observer is designed. Simulation results are presented to show in the closed-loop system large angle maneuver can be accomplished using only the measured state variables.
I Just Don't Trust Them: The Development and Validation of an Assessment Instrument to Measure Trust in Science and Scientists

Trust in science and scientists can greatly influence consideration of scientific developments and activities. Yet, trust is a nebulous construct based on emotions, knowledge, beliefs, and relationships. As we explored the literature regarding trust in science and scientists we discovered that no instruments were available to assess the construct, and therefore, we developed one. Using a process of data collection from science faculty members and undergraduate students, field testing, expert feedback, and an iterative process of design, we developed, validated, and established the reliability of the Trust in Science and Scientist Inventory. Our 21-item instrument has a reliability of Cronbach's alpha of .86, and we have successfully field-tested it with a range of undergraduate college students. We discuss implications and possible applications of the instrument, and include it in the appendix.
Niche Modeling: Predictions from Statistical Distributions

Preface FUNCTIONS Elements Operations Functions Ecological Models Summary DATA Creating Entering Data Queries Joins Loading and Saving a Database Summary SPATIAL Data types Operations Summary TOPOLOGY Formalism Topology Hutchinsonian Niche Environmental Envelope Probability Distribution Machine Learning Methods Data Mining Post-Hutchinsonian Niche Summary ENVIRONMENTAL DATA COLLECTIONS Datasets Archives Summary EXAMPLES Model Skill Calculating Accuracy Predicting House Prices Brown Tree Snake Invasion of Zebra Mussel Observations BIAS Range Shift Range-Shift Model Forms of Bias Quantifying Bias Summary AUTOCORRELATION Types Characteristics Example: Testing Statistical Skill Within Range Generalization to 2D Summary NON-LINEARITY Growth Niches Summary LONG TERM PERSISTENCE Detecting LTP Implications of LTP Discussion CIRCULARITY Climate Prediction Lessons for Niche Modeling FRAUD Methods Summary References
Prescribing Mental Health Medication: The Practitioner's Guide

1. General Principals of Medication Management 2. Myths and Truths about Mental Health Medication 3. The Initial Prescriptive Interview 4. Helping a Patient Decide to Try Medication 5. Starting Medication 6. Follow-up Appointments and Strategies 7. Medication and Psychotherapy 8. Stopping Medication 9. The Long Term Patient 10. Medication of Sleep Problems 11. Alcohol and Mental Health Medication 12. Prescribing Psychotropics for Geriatric Patients 13. Using Medication with Children and Adolescents 14. Pregnancy and Psychotropics - Rewards and Risks 15. The Confused and Agitated Patient - Medication Pitfalls 16. Psychotropic Medications and Side Effects 17. Danger Zones 18. Medication Allergies 19. Serum Blood Levels of Psychotropics 20. Generic Medications 21. Preparing an Office for Mental Health Prescribing 22. Prescription Writing and Record Keeping 23. The Telephone - Mainstay and Millstone 24. 'I Took Too Much' - Misuse of Medication 25. 'Difficult' Medication Patients - And How to Treat Them 26. The Pharmacist, the Pharmaceutical Industry and You 27. Keeping Current
On The Origin of Broad Line Wings in Molecular Cloud Spectra

The broad line wings in molecular cloud spectra are proposed to result from strong magnetic waves on the periphery of dense cores and in the intercore regions where the Alfven velocity should be larger than average. The observed line profiles are reproduced by a simple but realistic model, and the ratio of the broad to the narrow line components is found to equal approximately three, independent of cloud parameters, as long as the core/intercore contrast in the local average density is sufficiently large. Interactions between the magnetic waves should produce dense clumps in the non-linear splash regions between converging flows.
Treatment-induced mental changes in Parkinson's disease.

Publisher Summary Parkinson's disease (PD) is considered a neurobehavioral syndrome with well documented mood, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms. Many of the behavioral abnormalities associated with PD are due to or exacerbated by the medications used to treat the myriad symptoms of the disease. The mental changes generally occur late in the course of the illness, long after antiparkinsonian medications have been started, and therefore it becomes difficult to determine whether these changes are treatment-induced, treatment-exacerbated, or intrinsic to the disease process. Surgical therapies can further worsen or even cause behavioral or cognitive decline in patients with PD. This chapter provides an overview of the various adverse behavioral and cognitive changes seen as a result of the pharmacological and surgical treatment of PD. It discusses the phenomenology and treatment of drug-induced psychosis. The chapter reviews mood fluctuations and repetitive and compulsive behaviors due to dopaminergic medications. The negative behavioral and cognitive changes from ablative surgeries and deep brain stimulation (DBS) for PD are also presented.
Dentin phosphophoryn in the matrix activates AKT and mTOR signaling pathway to promote preodontoblast survival and differentiation.

Dentin phosphophoryn (DPP) is an extracellular matrix protein synthesized by odontoblasts. It is highly acidic and the phosphorylated protein possesses a strong affinity for calcium ions. Therefore, DPP in the extracellular matrix can promote hydroxyapatite nucleation and can regulate the size of the growing crystal. Besides its calcium binding property, DPP can initiate signaling functions from the ECM (Extracellular matrix). The signals that promote the cytodifferentiation of preodontoblasts to fully functional odontoblasts are not known. In this study, we demonstrate that preodontoblasts on a DPP matrix, generates mechanical and biochemical signals. This is initiated by the ligation of the integrins with the RGD containing DPP. The downstream biochemical response observed is the activation of the AKT( protein kinase B) and mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) signaling pathways leading to the activation of the transcription factor NF- κB (Nuclear factor κB) . Terminal differentiation of the preodontoblasts was assessed by identifying phosphate and calcium deposits in the matrix using von Kossa and Alizarin red staining respectively. Identifying the signaling pathways initiated by DPP in the dentin matrix would help in devising strategies for dentin tissue engineering.
Particle swarm, genetic algorithm, and their hybrids: optimization of a profiled corrugated horn antenna

Genetic algorithms (GA) have proven to be a useful method of optimization for difficult and discontinuous multidimensional engineering problems. A new method of optimization, particle swarm optimization (PSO), is able to accomplish the same goal as GA optimization in a new and faster way. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the foundations and performance of the two algorithms when applied to the design of a profiled corrugated horn antenna. Also investigated is the possibility of hybridizing the two algorithms.
Epidemiology of NAFLD and Type 2 Diabetes: Health Disparities Among Persons of Hispanic Origin

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver condition in the USA and worldwide and affects Hispanics disproportionally. In this review, we aim to document and contrast the epidemiology of NAFLD and type 2 diabetes, provide a framework to study health disparities in NAFLD in Hispanic populations, and identify points of action within the health care system to tackle these health disparities. NAFLD shares many common risk factors with type 2 diabetes, specially obesity and insulin resistance, but shows different prevalence patterns by ethnicity: while Hispanics are disproportionately affected by both NAFLD and type 2 diabetes, non-Hispanic black populations have a low prevalence of NAFLD. The current literature suggests a strong role of polymorphisms in the PNPLA3 gene and potential interactions with environmental factors in the pathogenesis of NAFLD. However, given potential interactions and the shared risk factors with type 2 diabetes, a health disparity approach that acknowledges upstream determinants is needed. Solutions to these determinants can also be found in the health system. The role of interventions that have shown efficacy in type 2 diabetes, like community health workers, may be implemented to prevent and control NAFLD.
Standardization of Methodology for Evaluating Whey Proteins

Abstract Equivocal definition of "functional property" has led to a confusing array of properties and methods to determine these attributes. Such variables as test procedures perse, biases inherent in them, and sample history often may dictate the definition of a particular functional property. This paper reviews objectives of determining functional properties of food proteins, approaches used to determine functionality, existing terminology, and methods pinpointing the areas of confusion. Solutions to these current problems are explored, and the progress on collaborative studies to define and measure functional properties is discussed.
Development of a Double Stub Tuner for Alcator C-Mod Lower Hybrid Current Drive System

This paper describes the operation of a double stub fast ferrite tuner (FFT) that we have designed for the Alcator C-Mod 4.6-GHz lower hybrid current drive system. This FFT is unique because it uses a single electromagnet coil and permanent magnet on each tuning stub. The ferrite is located on the center of the broad face of the waveguide. The FFT is required to withstand over 200 kW of power (20 kW/cm2) at high VSWR for 1-3 s pulses spaced 10-min apart. Breakdown measurements and fabrication considerations will be discussed. In addition, simulation of thermal conditions will be shown. The FFT will be computer controlled and must react to matching a load in a few hundred microseconds. This puts a severe requirement on power supply response time and its variation. In addition, the calculation time of the controlling software algorithms must be considered as well as the diffusion time of the controlling magnetic field through the waveguide wall. We will discuss these requirements and what we have done to meet them.
The role of hot plate and general environmental stimuli in morphine analgesic tolerance.

Abstract Rats given one injection of morphine (5 mg/kg) paired with a hot plate test displayed greater analgesic tolerance than rats given nine injections of morphine paired with a distinct room in which the hot plate apparatus was located. Hot plate stimuli, rather than general environmental stimuli, are prepotent in the acquisition of morphine analgesic tolerance assessed by the hot plate procedure.
THE METAL-POOR HALO OF THE ANDROMEDA SPIRAL GALAXY (M31)

We present spectroscopic observations of red giant branch (RGB) stars over a large expanse in the halo of the Andromeda spiral galaxy (M31), acquired with the DEIMOS instrument on the Keck II 10 m telescope. Using a combination of five photometric/spectroscopic diagnostics?(1) radial velocity, (2) intermediate-width DDO51 photometry, (3) Na I equivalent width (surface gravity-sensitive), (4) position in the color-magnitude diagram, and (5) comparison between photometric and spectroscopic [Fe/H] estimates?we isolate over 250 bona fide M31 bulge and halo RGB stars located in 12 fields ranging from R = 12 to 165 kpc from the center of M31 (47 of these stars are halo members with R > 60 kpc). We derive the M31 spheroid (bulge and halo) metallicity distribution function and find it to be systematically more metal-poor with increasing radius, shifting from [Fe/H] = -0.47 ? 0.03 (? = 0.39) at R 60 kpc, assuming [?/Fe] = 0.0. These results indicate the presence of a metal-poor RGB population at large radial distances out to at least R = 160 kpc, thereby supporting our recent discovery of a stellar halo in M31 (structural component with an R-2 power-law surface brightness profile). This component has a distinct metallicity distribution from M31's bulge. If we assume an ?-enhancement of [?/Fe] = +0.3 for M31's halo, we derive [Fe/H] = -1.5 ? 0.1 (? = 0.7). Therefore, the mean metallicity and metallicity spread of this newly found remote M31 RGB population are similar to those of the Milky Way halo.
The potential of NMR techniques for studies of the effects of thermal history on glass structure

Abstract Nuclear Magnetic Resonance is used to determine the boron coordination in CABAL and Si-CABAL glasses subjected to various thermal histories. In the Si-CABAL glass system the boron coordination was found to depend on the quench rate. Other NMR techniques are described for future studies of the thermal history of glass.
A Markov chain analysis of predator strategy in a model-mimic system

A predator which is preying on a model-mimic system can choose either the single-trial strategy or a multi-trial strategy as its behavior in learning to prudently harvest such a prey system. In this learning behavior, an important and often-posed problem is to determine which among these two strategies is better suited for the predator and why one is preferable over the other. We present in this article, using Markov chain methods, an extensive analysis of these strategies (and also of eat-everything, strategy). We conclude that the multi-trial strategy is the one that the predator should adopt (but we will also describe the situations when the single-trial strategy seems to be better). Our conclusions are based on the comparisons of quantities such as the mean benefit to the predator, energy derived by a predator from the model-mimic system and (a newly introduced notion of) contagion in eating mimics and models (these quantities are computed for different strategies). The first two quantities are functions of the abundancep and noxiousnessb of models. The contagion is a function of onlyp; and, though independent ofb, it is also in support of multi-trial, strategy. We introduce, in the present context, a biological analog of the d'Alembert principle and also derive functions describing the influences of eating a specified type of prey at a given time on eating any type of prey at a later time. Various results of Estabrook-Jespersen (single-trial strategy) and Bobisud-Potratz (multi-trial strategy) are re-derived as special cases of our more general results. A central limit theorem under the eat-everything strategy is given.
Photocatalytic CO2 reduction using a molecular cobalt complex deposited on TiO2 nanoparticles

Hybrid photocatalysts were prepared by depositing a macrocyclic cobalt complex on TiO2 surfaces. Upon UV light irradiation, photoexcited electrons in TiO2 nanoparticles were transferred to the surface cobalt catalyst for CO2 reduction.
Unusual gingival epithelial proliferation: Primary pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia

Abstract A primary pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia arising in the gingiva of a 9-year-old boy with histologic features of carcinoma was surgically excised and has not recurred after 2 years. It is suggested that the histogenesis is atypical proliferation of an aborted gingival cyst arising from dental lamina.
TNF-α signaling in Fanconi anemia

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) is a major pro-inflammatory cytokine involved in systemic inflammation and the acute phase reaction. Dysregulation of TNF production has been implicated in a variety of human diseases including Fanconi anemia (FA). FA is a genomic instability syndrome characterized by progressive bone marrow failure and cancer susceptibility. The patients with FA are often found overproducing TNF-α, which may directly affect hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) function by impairing HSC survival, homing and proliferation, or indirectly change the bone marrow microenvironment critical for HSC homeostasis and function, therefore contributing to disease progression in FA. In this brief review, we discuss the link between TNF-α signaling and FA pathway with emphasis on the implication of inflammation in the pathophysiology and abnormal hematopoiesis in FA.
Fractional powers of operators of Tsallis ensemble and their parameter differentiation

We develop four identities concerning parameter differentiation of fractional powers of operators appearing in the Tsallis ensembles of quantum statistical mechanics of nonextensive systems. In the appropriate limit these reduce to the corresponding differentiation identities of exponential operators of the Gibbs ensembles of extensive systems derived by Wilcox.
Simple description of the anisotropic two-channel Kondo problem.

We adapt the strong-coupling method first used in the one-channel Kondo model to develop a simple description of the spin- $\frac{1}{2}$ two-channel Kondo model with channel anisotropy. Our method exploits spin-charge decoupling to develop a compactified Hamiltonian that describes the spin excitations. The structure of the fixed-point Hamiltonian and quasiparticle impurity S matrix are incompatible with a Fermi-liquid description.
Raimondal, a new sesquiterpenoid from pigment glands of Gossypium raimondii

Abstract A new sesquiterpenoid isolated from pigment glands of leaves and immature bolls of Gossypium raimondii has been named raimondal and identified as 5- iso -propyl-2-methoxy-3-methyl-1,6,7-trihydroxy-8-naphthaldehyde. Raimondal was oxidized by ferric chloride to o -hemigossypolone (8-formyl-5- iso -propyl-3-methyl-6,7-dihydroxy-1,2-naphthoquinone) which was readily reduced to its hydroquinone, 2-hydroxyhemigossypol. Neither of the two oxidation products were detected in extracts from G. raimondii .
The evidence base for cephalosporin superiority over penicillin in streptococcal pharyngitis.

Current treatment guidelines from the Infectious Diseases Society of America, the American Heart Association, and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend only oral penicillin V or intramuscular benzathine penicillin G as the drugs of choice for treatment of group A β-hemolytic streptococcal (GABHS) pharyngitis. Ten-day treatment courses with 1st-generation oral cephalosporins or erythromycin are recommended as suitable alternatives in patients who are allergic to penicillin. Despite these recommendations, oral cephalosporins are used as drugs of choice for many patients with GABHS pharyngitis. Simpler and/or short-course regimens of cephalosporins that have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration offer alternatives with the potential for unchanged patient compliance. Increasing cephalosporin use in patients with GABHS pharyngitis has followed from numerous reports and metaanalyses of cephalosporin superiority over penicillin for bacteriologic eradication and clinical response. This review examines the evidence supporting the use of cephalosporins as a first choice of treatment for many patients with GABHS pharyngitis.
Evaluation of Transport Integrals for Mixed Scattering and Application to Galvanomagnetic Effect

The Johnson-Whitesell evaluations of the conductivity integrals for mixed scattering have been extended over larger ranges of magnetic field and impurity scattering parameters to allow their application to the high-mobility semiconductors. Values are given for the first thermoelectric integral. Use of the magnetic field dependence of galvanomagnetic and thermomagnetic properties to study charge-carrier scattering is discussed. Applications of the functions in the analysis of Hall effect, Corbino magnetoresistance, and thermomagnetic phenomena as functions of magnetic field are illustrated.
Nerve growth factor and K-252a increase catecholamine release from PC12 cells.

PC12 cells are a nerve growth factor-responsive clone derived from a rat pheochromocytoma. The cells contain catecholamines and secrete them in response to depolarizing stimuli and cholinergic agonists. Treatment of the cells with nerve growth factor produces a number of very rapid changes, including the structural rearrangement of the cell membrane, the generation of a number of different second messengers, and the phosphorylation of several proteins. The present studies show that nerve growth factor treatment increases the release of dopamine and norepinephrine from the cells within a few minutes and does so independently of its effect on their metabolism. The experiments indicate that this effect on nerve growth factor is dependent on the presence of extra-cellular calcium and can be blocked by calcium channel antagonists. K-252a, an alkaloid-like material, usually found to inhibit the actions of nerve growth factor on PC12 cells, also increases the release of cat-echolamines under these conditions.
Structural and functional properties of the segments of λ cro mRNA that interact with transcription termination factor Rho

Abstract Termination of transcription at tR1, the Rho-dependent terminator between genes cro and cII of bacteriophage λ, is dependent upon the structure of segments near the 3′ end of the nascent cro gene transcript and on contacts between Rho protein and a 3′ proximal segment called rut. The characteristics of the structure of cro RNA in the region from residue 220 to residue 355 in free, isolated RNA and in the presence of Rho or NusA proteins were analyzed by measuring relative rates of reactivity of individual nucleotides with chemicals and enzymes of defined specificities. The results indicate that the rut segments are single-stranded and become blocked to the action of the various probes in the presence of Rho factor. They also show that this region contains two stem-loop structures; one involves the boxB sequence of nutR, the other precedes the tR1 subsite II end points. The results provide direct evidence for a primary binding contact between Rho protein and the rut segment of cro RNA and demonstrate that this binding contact remains stable when the cro RNA is serving as a cofactor for ATP hydrolysis, an observation that is consistent with a mechanism in which Rho maintains contact with the rut region while it makes additional interactions with RNA that are coupled to ATP hydrolysis.
Continuous-flow ferrohydrodynamic sorting of particles and cells in microfluidic devices

A new sorting scheme based on ferrofluid hydrodynamics (ferrohydrodynamics) was used to separate mixtures of particles and live cells simultaneously. Two species of cells, including Escherichia coli and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, as well as fluorescent polystyrene microparticles were studied for their sorting throughput and efficiency. Ferrofluids are stable magnetic nanoparticles suspensions. Under external magnetic field gradients, magnetic buoyancy forces exerted on particles and cells lead to size-dependent deflections from their laminar flow paths and result in spatial separation. We report the design, modeling, fabrication and characterization of the sorting device. This scheme is simple, low-cost and label-free compared to other existing techniques.
A nucleotide-independent nitroxide probe reports on site-specific stereomeric environment in DNA.

In this report, stereospecific structural and dynamic features in DNA are studied using the site-directed spin labeling technique. A stable nitroxide radical, 1-oxyl-4-bromo-2,2,5,5-tetramethylpyrroline (R5a), was attached postsynthetically to phosphorothioates that were chemically introduced, one at a time, at five sites of a DNA duplex. The two phosphorothioate diastereomers (Rp or Sp) were separated, and nitroxide rotational motions were monitored using electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy. The resulting spectra vary according to diastereomer identity and location of the labeling site, with Rp-R5a spectra effectively reporting on local DNA structural features and Sp-R5a spectra sensing variations in local DNA motions. This establishes Rp- and Sp-R5a as unique probes for investigating nucleic acids in a site- and stereospecific manner, which may aid studies of stereospecific DNA/protein interactions. In addition, weighted averages of individual Rp and Sp spectra match those of R5a attached to mixed diastereomers. This suggests that R5a linked to mixed diastereomers reports on the composite behaviors of Rp- and Sp-R5a and is useful in initial probing of the DNA local environment. This work advances understanding of R5a/DNA coupling, and is a key step forward in developing a nucleotide-independent spectroscopic probe for studying nucleic acids.
Delaying chemoradiation until after completion of adjuvant chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer may not impact local control

Abstract Background Timing of administration of adjuvant chemoradiation (CRT) for pancreatic cancer has varied across studies. To date, the impact of timing of adjuvant CRT on long-term outcomes has not been evaluated. This study evaluates the effect of timing of adjuvant CRT on locoregional control (LRC) and overall survival (OS). Methods and Materials We performed a review of 159 patients with resected pancreatic adenocarcinoma who received adjuvant CRT between 1998 and 2010. Median dose of CRT was 50.4 Gy. The primary study variable was timing of CRT, dichotomized as immediate CRT versus delayed CRT. Consistent with Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) 9704, immediate chemoradiation was defined as after ≤1 cycle of chemotherapy, whereas delayed CRT was defined as after >1 cycle. Cox multivariate analysis (MVA) was performed. Results Median follow-up was 55 months. Seventy-four percent of patients received immediate CRT, and 26% patients received delayed CRT. Patients treated with delayed CRT were more likely to receive adjuvant gemcitabine (100% vs 53%; P P = .017) and positive margins (hazard ratio, 5.35; P Conclusions Timing of adjuvant CRT for resectable pancreatic cancer may not significantly affect LRC or OS. These findings support the ongoing RTOG 0848 trial design, and provide reassurance that delaying CRT until completion of chemotherapy should not significantly impact LRC.
A rapid method for comparative quantitative polymerase chain reaction of HIV-1 proviral DNA extracted from cryopreserved brain tissues

The quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method devised by Fujimura and Bockstahler (1995) was modified for rapid determination of distribution of HIV-1 proviral DNA load in AIDS brains. It was used for analysis of an association with HIV-1 associated dementia and HIV-1 encephalitis (Fujimura et al., 1997). The method has wider applicability for comparative studies of viral DNA load based on PCR amplification. The method is applicable under conditions where target DNA and its PCR-amplified product increase proportionally. An equation was derived to obtain the number of copies of HIV-1 DNA per cellular genome from the amount of PCR amplified product of a tissue specimen DNA. The equalizing constant is the reciprocal of the slope of the amplification of the HIV-1 proviral DNA sequence of the standard cellular DNA included in each experiment. The intercept of the equation is zero.
Trauma alters alveolar effector cell apoptosis.

Abstract Background The lung's immune response to trauma is biphasic with an initial proinflammatory and a subsequent anti-inflammatory cytokine response that alters cell function. Apoptosis, programmed cell death, is regulated by cytokines, and alteration of this important cellular function has been associated with end-organ dysfunction. We hypothesize that the lung's immune response to trauma alters alveolar inflammatory cell apoptosis and may contribute to posttrauma pulmonary dysfunction. Methods Bronchoalveolar lavage specimens were obtained from trauma patients with an injury severity score of 16 or more compared with patients who underwent elective surgery. Interleukin (IL)-8 and IL-10 were measured in the supernatant. Apoptosis and HLA-DR expression were measured in the cellular content, and Pa o 2 /Fi o 2 ratios were calculated as a measure of pulmonary function. Results After trauma, the alveolar inflammatory cell population was composed primarily of neutrophils. Apoptosis was suppressed initially after injury but increased to control levels by 72 hours after injury in parallel to alveolar concentrations of IL-10. Levels of IL-8 remained elevated, and HLA-DR expression remained suppressed throughout the study period. Pa o 2 /Fi o 2 ratios demonstrated pulmonary dysfunction by 72 hours. Conclusion The lung's biphasic cytokine response to injury significantly alters both alveolar inflammatory cell apoptosis and HLA-DR expression. The alteration of alveolar inflammatory cell apoptosis may be dependent on the local production of IL-10. A reduction in apoptosis immediately preceded the onset of clinically significant pulmonary dysfunction.