cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Experimental occlusal interferences. Part II. Masseteric EMG responses to an intercuspal interference.

summary In 12 subjects, a rigid unilateral intercuspal interference (minimum mean height of 0.24 mm) was placed on either the right or left mandibular second premolar and first molar (sagittal physiological equilibrium point of the hemimandibular dental arch). During brisk and forceful clenching on the interference, bipolar surface electromyograms were obtained from the right and left masseter muscles. On the side opposite the interference, myoelectric clenching activity was significantly reduced. Correlation analyses showed that the interference elicited a non-linear (complex) co-ordination of the amplitude, but not the duration, of bilateral masseteric, clenching activity, i.e. frequently there was significant motor facilitation on the side of the interference, and significant motor inhibition on the side opposite the interference. Theoretical considerations predicted that brief clenching on the interference would easily lead to frontal plane rotatory motions of the mandible which, indeed, occurred clinically.
Fossil site prediction using geographic information systems (GIS) and suitability analysis: The Two Medicine Formation, MT, a test case

Abstract Fossil site discovery has traditionally been the result of educated guesswork followed by systematic searching of terrain. This study approached the issues of fossil site identification by looking at key variables in a GIS setting. The data were analyzed to create a predictive model for finding fossils, thus facilitating the process of fossil discovery and saving time and money. Geospatial variables believed to be most useful for finding fossils were examined and ranked on a scale from 1 to 4, with 4 being the most advantageous score for finding fossils. Weighted sum addition combined the layers to create a suitability surface. Field testing and subsequent analysis showed the model accurately predicted areas of high, medium, and low fossil likelihood. Field observations and additional site data led to model refinements and increased resolution of fossil density distribution. The final model explained a statistically significant 90% of fossil density variation in the Two Medicine Formation.
Outcome variables in osteoporosis trials

The conduct of controlled clinical trials examining the anti-fracture efficacy of potential therapies for osteoporosis is a relatively new and developing science. We have reviewed several aspects of data acquisition, emphasizing that bone mass measurement and, similarly, back pain can only be regarded as ancillary outcome variables. Serial measurement of stature when performed in a precise manner may be an inexpensive, quick, and convenient surrogate outcome variable, most applicable to large multi-center studies. The only true end-point of such trials is the radiographic documentation of new vertebral fracture occurrence. Techniques for obtaining serial radiographs and assessing vertebral morphometry with good quality control have been described. Important questions still need to be resolved concerning the most appropriate criteria for defining incident fractures and for calculating fracture frequency. Implications regarding trial sample size requirements are discussed.
Alcohol and food self-administration by female Macaque monkeys as a function of menstrual cycle phase

Female Macaque monkeys were trained to self-administer food (1 g banana pellet) and alcohol (0.12 g/kg/inj IV) in an operant paradigm. Alcohol and food-maintained responding were controlled by a second order schedule of reinforcement FR 4 (VR 16:S) that required an average of 64 responses for delivery of one food pellet or alcohol injection. Alcohol self-administration at average dose levels of 0-1.5, 1.5-3.0, 3.0-4.0 and 4.0 to 5.5 g/kg/day did not vary systematically as a function of menstrual cycle phase in a sample of 30 menstrual cycles. But alcohol self-administration was significantly lower during menstruation (p less than 0.002) in comparison to mid-cycle or the late luteal phase. Monkeys that self-administered high doses of alcohol (3.0-5.5 g/kg/day) also showed stable patterns of food self-administration across the menstrual cycle. Monkeys that self-administered low to moderate doses of alcohol (0-3.0 g/kg/day) showed a consistent decrease in food self-administration at mid-cycle. The implications of these data for hypotheses concerning estrogen modulation of food intake and the influence of the premenstruum on alcohol self-administration are discussed.
A model for an adaptive scheduler

This paper reports on the design of a model for an adaptive scheduler of an operating system. The model is based on an adaptive control loop system in which the system's performance quality is evaluated by an index of performance, defined here as the users dissatisfaction time. At each user interaction, the system performs three basic functions: a) select the expected service type of user interaction based on a history of past interactions, b) assign a deadline for the system to respond to the user interaction, and c) modify (adapt) some parameters used in calculating the user's priority (using the system's history of previous services to the user) to reduce the probability of the user being dissatisfied in this interaction. We present here the algorithms necessary to implement this model. Numerical results from a simulation show that our adaptive scheduler is more efficient in minimizing the number of dissatisfied users than any other previously known method.
Content-based indexing of earth-observing satellite image database with fuzzy attributes

The retrieval of images through the use of content-based search techniques often requires inferencing and reasoning. As a result the processing of content-based queries in large databases is frequently reduced to membership and range queries on data having vague or uncertain attributes. We refer to these as fuzzy attributes. In this paper, a hierarchical indexing technique for membership and range queries in databases containing data having fuzzy attributes is proposed. This approach is suitable for both unimodal and multimodal fuzzy membership functions. In the proposed approach, an index using a multi-attribute indexing scheme such as a hierarchical hash table is generated based on the discrete representation of each fuzzy attribute. Indexing is then performed by traversing the data structure looking for the activation values provided by the query.
Conformational energy calculations demonstrating the β turn and other secondary structural features in the repeat pentapeptide of elastin

Conformational energy of the repeat pentapeptide of elastin, N-formyl-L-Val-L-Pro-Gly-L-Val-Gly-OCH3, was determined as a function of backbone torsion angles ϕ and ψ. Total conformational energy was assumed to consist of van der Waals, electrostatic, torsional, and hydrogen bond energies. Electrostatic energy was calculated using ab initio minimal basis set (STO-3G) net charges. Major conformational features observed are a ten-membered hydrogen-bonded type II β-turn system involving Val1 C'O and Val4 NH and a seven-membered equatorial (C7eq) conformation involving Gly3 C'O and Gly5 NH. The β-turn conformation is dominantly stabilized by the hydrogen-bond energy. A limited interaction is observed between Gly5 C'O and Gly3 NH. These theoretical results are compared with proton and carbon-13 magnetic resonance studies of this laboratory.
Biomass direct chemical looping process: Process simulation

Biomass is a clean and renewable energy source. The efficiency for biomass conversion using conventional fuel conversion techniques, however, is constrained by the relatively low energy density and high moisture content of biomass. This study presents the biomass direct chemical looping (BDCL) process, an alternative process, which has the potential to thermochemically convert biomass to hydrogen and/or electricity with high efficiency. Process simulation and analysis are conducted to illustrate the individual reactor performance and the overall mass and energy management scheme of the BDCL process. A multistage model is developed based on ASPEN Plus® to account for the performance of the moving bed reactors considering the reaction equilibriums. The optimum operating conditions for the reactors are also determined. Process simulation utilizing ASPEN Plus® is then performed based on the reactor performance data obtained from the multistage model. The simulation results indicate that the BDCL process is significantly more efficient than conventional biomass conversion processes. Moreover, concentrated CO2, produced from the BDCL process is readily sequesterable, making the process carbon negative. Several BDCL configurations are investigated for process optimization purposes. The fates of contaminants are also examined.
Formation of a Protein Corona on Silver Nanoparticles Mediates Cellular Toxicity via Scavenger Receptors

Addition of a protein corona (PC) or protein adsorption layer on the surface of nanomaterials following their introduction into physiological environments may modify their activity, bio-distribution, cellular uptake, clearance, and toxicity. We hypothesize that silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) will associate with proteins common to human serum and cell culture media forming a PC that will impact cell activation and cytotoxicity. Furthermore, the role of scavenger receptor BI (SR-BI) in mediating this toxicity was evaluated. Citrate-suspended 20 nm AgNPs were incubated with human serum albumin (HSA), bovine serum albumin (BSA), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or water (control) to form a PC. AgNPs associated with each protein (HSA, BSA, and HDL) forming PCs as assessed by electron microscopy, hyperspectral analysis, ζ-potential, and hydrodynamic size. Addition of the PC decreased uptake of AgNPs by rat lung epithelial and rat aortic endothelial cells. Hyperspectral analysis demonstrated a loss of the AgNP PC following internalization. Cells demonstrated concentration-dependent cytotoxicity following exposure to AgNPs with or without PCs (0, 6.25, 12.5, 25 or 50 μg/ml). All PC-coated AgNPs were found to activate cells by inducing IL-6 mRNA expression. A small molecule SR-BI inhibitor was utilized to determine the role of SR-BI in the observed effects. Pretreatment with the SR-BI inhibitor decreased internalization of AgNPs with or without PCs, and reduced both cytotoxicity and IL-6 mRNA expression. This study characterizes the formation of a PC on AgNPs and demonstrates its influence on cytotoxicity and cell activation through a cell surface receptor.
Autophagic response to sublethal injury in cardiac myocytes

Abstract Fetal mouse hearts maintained in oxygenated organ culture media continue to beat for a period of weeks. Study of the ultrastructure of the myocytes after the first day in culture revealed that most of the cells were normal, however an occasional cell had autophagic vacuoles within the cytoplasm which contained degenerating organelles indicating that focal cytoplasmic injury had occurred. Deprivation of oxygen and glucose for a period of time followed by resupply resulted in increased numbers of autophagic vacuoles. In this study, fetal mouse hearts were maintained from 1 to 4 h in glucose-free media in an atmosphere of 95% N-5% CO 2 after which resupply of O 2 and glucose was maintained for as long as 24 h. Many cells recovered without apparent residual injury while others contained autophagic vacuoles in an otherwise normal cytoplasm. The contents of the vacuoles ranged from those in which organelles were readily identified to those characteristic of residual bodies. Mitochondria, glycogen and tubular structures were seen most frequently in the vacuoles but occasionally myofilaments were identified. It is suggested that focal cytoplasmic injury which occurred during oxygen and glucose deprivation stimulates the formation of membrane to enclose the irreversibly damaged components permitting localized lysosomal digestion without causing further injury to the cell. The fetal mouse heart organ culture provides an excellent model for studying the sequential autophagic changes which occur in response to sublethal injury.
Structural Interactions between Lipids, Water and S1–S4 Voltage-Sensing Domains

Abstract Membrane proteins serve crucial signaling and transport functions, yet relatively little is known about their structures in membrane environments or how lipids interact with these proteins. For voltage-activated ion channels, X-ray structures suggest that the mobile voltage-sensing S4 helix would be exposed to the membrane, and functional studies reveal that lipid modification can profoundly alter channel activity. Here, we use solid-state NMR to investigate structural interactions of lipids and water with S1–S4 voltage-sensing domains and to explore whether lipids influence the structure of the protein. Our results demonstrate that S1–S4 domains exhibit extensive interactions with lipids and that these domains are heavily hydrated when embedded in a membrane. We also find evidence for preferential interactions of anionic lipids with S1–S4 domains and that these interactions have lifetimes on the timescale of ≤ 10 − 3 s. Arg residues within S1–S4 domains are well hydrated and are positioned in close proximity to lipids, exhibiting local interactions with both lipid headgroups and acyl chains. Comparative studies with a positively charged lipid lacking a phosphodiester group reveal that this lipid modification has only modest effects on the structure and hydration of S1–S4 domains. Taken together, our results demonstrate that Arg residues in S1–S4 voltage-sensing domains reside in close proximity to the hydrophobic interior of the membrane yet are well hydrated, a requirement for carrying charge and driving protein motions in response to changes in membrane voltage.
The Motive to Avoid Success: Exploring the Nature of the Fear.

The relationship of Horner's (1968) measure of fear of success to the perception of interpersonal relationships is investigated in five samples of male and female college students. In addition to Horner's cue, the different samples wrote stories to a variety of cues describing aspects of same-sex and opposite-sex friendships. Fear-of-success subjects of both sexes significantly more often described dangers, as opposed to pleasures, in opposite-sex relationships. Fear-of-success female subjects significantly more often described same-sex disagreements as destructive of friendships. Results are discussed in terms of sex similarities and differences; the usefulness of fear of success as a cross-sex personality variable is explored.
The plating algorithm for radiation script-F transfer factor

Presentation d'une methode de conversion de la matrice du facteur de forme en matrice du facteur de transfert pour le calcul du transfert radiatif de chaleur dans une enceinte
Effects of Pyridine and Its Derivatives on the Equilibria and Kinetics Pertaining to Epoxidation Reactions Catalyzed by Methyltrioxorhenium

The coordination of substituted pyridines to MTO (methyltrioxorhenium) is governed by both electronic and steric effects. For example, the binding constant of pyridine to MTO is 200 L mol-1, whereas that of the better donor 4-picoline is 730 L mol-1 and that of the sterically encumbered 2,6-di-tert-butyl-4-methylpyridine is <1 L mol-1. A Hammett reaction constant ρ = −2.6, derived from meta- and para-substituted pyridines, applies to this equilibrium. Pyridine stabilizes the MTO/H2O2 system and accelerates the epoxidation of α-methylstyrene. The steady-state concentration of MTO is decreased during the catalytic epoxidation reaction by coordinating a pyridine derivative, thus stabilizing the MTO/H2O2 system against irreversible decomposition. Pyridine as a Lewis base accelerates the generation of the peroxorhenium catalysts, whereas coordination of pyridine to the diperoxorhenium complex appears responsible for the acceleration of epoxidation. Ultimately, however, it is the Bronsted basicity of pyridine t...
An analytical technique for characterization of transceiver IQ imbalances in the loop-back mode

Loop-back is a desirable test set-up for RF transceivers for both on-chip characterization and production testing. Measurement of IQ imbalances (phase mismatch, gain mismatch, DC offset, and time skews) in the loop-back mode is challenging due to the coupling between the receiver (RX) and transmitter (TX) parameters. We present an analytical method for the measurement of the imbalances in the loop-back mode. We excite the system with carefully designed test signals at the baseband TX input and analyze the corresponding RX baseband output. The derived and used mathematical equations based on these test inputs enable us to unambiguously compute IQ mismatches. Experiments conducted both in simulations and on a hardware platform confirm that the proposed technique can accurately compute the IQ imbalances.
Synthetic nanopores for molecular spectroscopy

A new technique to sequence single strand DNA by translocation through a synthetic graphene nanopore is discussed. An amplifier connecting the two sides of the nanopore produces a feedback signal sufficient for dielectrophoresis of ssDNA through the nanopore. The feedback signal also amplifies the size and electrical differences in the DNA bases as they translocate through the nanopore. Focused electron beam, focused ion beam and scanning tunneling current microscope probe were used to produce the graphene nanopore with only scanning tunneling probe reproducibly resulting in 1 nm pores.
Maximum Likelihood Estimation For Multi-Risk Model

In this paper we discuss a probabilistic model of failure due to competing causes of failure operating on a unit during its lifetime. Following Cox we term this the Multi-Risk Model. We impose some well-known parametric forms on the underlying distributions of the model and obtain maximum likelihood estimates for the parameters of the distributions. The asymptotic variance-covariance matrix of the estimates is derived. We give examples using the exponential and Weibull distributions. The theory is applied to data published by Mendenhall and Hader, who studied a Single-Risk Model.
Colorimetric Determination of Isoetharine Hydrochloride in Inhalation Solutions

Abstract A simple colorimetric assay method has been developed to quantify isoetharine hydrochloride in inhalation solutions. The method is based on a very simple reaction with potassium ferricyanide in a 0.05 M phosphate buffer solution. The color so developed can be measured at 500 nm. Beer's law was followed. The results were precise and accurate, with percent relative standard deviation of 0.6 based on 5 readings. The results using the developed method were in excellent agreement with the results obtained using the USP-NF method which is based on HPLC. Iodine solution was used to prevent the interference from the antioxidant (acetone sodium bisulfite). There was no interference from the other excipients present and from the two structurally related compounds, metaproterenol and terbutaline
Commentary: evidence to guide gun violence prevention in America

Gun violence is a major threat to the public's health and safety in the United States. The articles in this volume's symposium on gun violence reveal the scope of the problem and new trends in mortality rates from gunfire. Leading scholars synthesize research evidence that demonstrates the ability of numerous policies and programs—each consistent with lessons learned from successful efforts to combat public health problems—to prevent gun violence. Each approach presents challenges to successful implementation. Future research should inform efforts to assess which approaches are most effective and how to implement evidence-based interventions most effectively.
Molecular connections between nuclear and ciliary import processes

As an organelle, the cilium contains a unique complement of protein and lipid. Recent work has begun to shed light on the mechanisms that regulate entry of ciliary proteins into the compartment. Here, we focus on the mechanisms that regulate ciliary entry of cytosolic molecules. Studies have revealed a size exclusion mechanism for ciliary entry that is similar to the barrier to nuclear entry. Active import into the ciliary compartment involves nuclear trafficking components including importins, a Ran-guanosine triphosphate gradient, and nucleoporins. Together, this work indicates that nuclei and cilia share molecular, structural and mechanistic components that regulate import into the compartments.
Rate and extent of signal strength change at street corners in urban environments

Analysis of measurement data from intersections that exhibit the corner effect in the San Francisco financial district yields their empirical properties. For low rates of change of the average signal strength, i.e., less than 0.3 dB/ft, the rate and extent appear to be related. For higher rates of change, the extent of the change is around 9 /spl plusmn/ 4 dB.
Solution Infrared and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Studies of Cellulose Nitrates

This study has identified the infrared asymmetric nitrate absorptions of cellulose nitrates observed in THF solution. Independent absorptions for the primary nitrate at C6 and secondary nitrate at C3 were observed at 1651 cm−1 and 1639 cm−1, respectively. In addition, a third absorption at 1667 cm−1 was observed to be dependent upon the degree of nitration of the cellulose nitrate. This absorption was found to be due to steric hindrance between secondary nitrate groups on the C2 and C3 sites.
A novel L23-related gene 40 kb downstream of the imprinted H19 gene is biallelically expressed in mid-fetal and adult human tissues

The closely linked IGF2 and H19 genes on human chromosome 11p15.5 are monoallelically expressed as a result of genomic imprinting and show altered expression in Wilms' tumors (WTs). To map regional imprinting we have sought to isolate additional human genes close to IGF2/H19 and to characterize their allelic expression patterns. Here we report a novel gene, provisionally named L23MRP [L23 (mitochondrial)-related protein], which is oriented 'tail-to-tail' with H19 and is transcribed to within 40 kb of the last H19 exon. L23MRP is expressed biallelically in many mid-fetal and adult human tissues. This gene is also expressed at normal levels in WTs which have lost expression of H19 either via loss of the maternal chromosome 11p15.5 or via an epigenetic pathway involving site-specific DNA hypermethylation. These data indicate that, at least in post-embryonic stages, L23MRP is functionally insulated from the IGF2/H19 imprinted domain.
Signaling analysis for a multi-switch all-optical network

Three signaling schemes are analyzed for their potential implementation in a high-speed multi-switch all-optical network. This investigation is of interest because important characteristics of all-optical high-speed networks were not considered in the design of signaling protocols currently implemented in today's networks. Equations for throughput and delay are derived for the three schemes and comparisons are performed. Results obtained identify the signaling scheme to be implemented on an all-optical networking testbed.
Mycobacterium abscessus subsp abscessus lung disease: ‘trouble ahead, trouble behind…’

Mycobacterium abscessus subsp abscessus is the most common respiratory pathogen among the rapidly growing non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) and is also the most feared due to its well-deserved reputation for being refractory to antibiotic therapy. M. abscessus subsp abscessus has multiple innate antibiotic resistance mechanisms, but the most important one described so far is an inducible erythromycin methylase (erm) gene. M. abscessus subsp abscessus isolates may appear macrolide susceptible on initial in vitro testing but become macrolide resistant after exposure to macrolide. It is therefore very important to test clinically significant M. abscessus subsp abscessus isolates for erm gene activity. Remarkably, controversy still exists about the taxonomy and nomenclature of M. abscessus subspecies including subsp abscessus, subsp massiliense and subsp bolletii. Identification of these subspecies is not moot as M. abscessus subsp massiliense does not have an active erm gene resulting in both in vitro and in vivo susceptibility to macrolide. It is imperative from the clinician's perspective that mycobacterial laboratories correctly and rapidly identify M. abscessus to the subspecies level. Unfortunately, there are no reliably or predictably effective treatment regimens for M. abscessus subsp abscessus and better, more effective antimicrobial agents are badly needed. Surgical resection of involved lung tissue as an adjunct to antibiotic therapy is beneficial in selected patients but cannot be broadly applied. Overall, M. abscessus subsp abscessus remains a formidable respiratory mycobacterial pathogen, one that we are only beginning to understand microbiologically and one that as yet consistently evades our best efforts at successful therapeutic outcomes. 'trouble ahead, trouble behind, and you know that notion just crossed my mind'.Casey Jones, Grateful Dead (1970).
A hybrid linear equation solver and its application in quadratic placement

This paper presents a new hybrid linear equation solver for quadratic placement. The new solver is a combination of stochastic solver and iterative solver: it is proven in this paper that an approximate LDL factorization can be obtained from random walks, and used as a preconditioner for conjugate gradient solver. Testing on real-life placement benchmarks shows a speedup of up to 7.1 times over traditional Incomplete Cholesky preconditioned Conjugate Gradient (ICCG).
The Invisible Rhetorician: Charles Darwin's "Third Party" Strategy

ur traditional picture of Darwin is of a reclusive semiinvalid, for twenty years secretive about fus theory, and once it was published, reluctant to engage in its public defense. We think of Darwin as the prophet of natural selection, not as a wiley rhetorician brooding over the problem of persuasion and pulling strings behind the scenes. Darwin's absence from the confrontation at Oxford where first Thomas Henry Huxley and later Joseph Dalton Hooker defended him against Bishop Wilberforce, his reluctance to answer his critics through essays in literary and scientific quarterlies, and the emphasis given by historians to the biting reviews and public lectures of Huxley have reinforced our view of Darwin as a rhetorical indigent, dependent on the charity of the persuasively gifted.'
Validating run-time interactions in distributed Java applications

Distributed Java applications represent a large growth area in software. Validating such applications using information from runtime interactions is a challenge. We propose techniques for visualizing interactions, specifying and verifying assertions, and checking conformance of the implementation with its design. Our work helps in making the debugging and testing activities more systematic.
Cleaning Efficiency of Nickel-Titanium GT and .04 Rotary Files when used in a Torque-Controlled Rotary Handpiece

This study determined if the cleaning efficiency of nickel-titanium rotary files in an endodontic electric handpiece using a no-torque control setting was superior to that obtained when using the torque-control feature. Fifty extracted human anterior teeth with straight canals were divided into two groups of 20 and two control groups of 5. Canals were instrumented with GT and .04 ProFile nickel-titanium files until a size 35 advanced to working length. Samples were sectioned and the apical 6 mm of the canal was photographed (x20) and projected onto a 3- x 4-foot grid with squares measuring 0.5 inches each. Total debris was the percentage of the number of squares containing debris versus the total number of squares. The teeth in the torque-controlled group showed an average of 24.99% debris versus 15.55% for the teeth in the no-torque group. The difference was not statistically significant; therefore, no difference can be said to exist between the two torque settings in terms of cleaning efficiency.
Decrease in hematopoietic stem cell domains as a delayed effect of X‐irradiation

Although the hematopoietic integrity of locally X-irradiated sites can be restored for a time even after fairly large doses, a secondary aplasia often occurs some months later. To gain further insight into this delayed effect within the framework of the stem cell regulatory domain hypothesis, we characterized the growth kinetics of spleen colony forming units (CFU-S) in WBB6FI-+/+ bone marrow transplanted into WBB6FI-W/WV mice in which one leg had been exposed to 10-30 Gy of X rays 4-5 months previously. Compared to unirradiated contralateral marrow, fewer CFU-S either reached the previously irradiated marrow or were seeded into sites that could support growth. The initial exponential growth of effectively seeded CFU-S was unchanged, but growth deceleration (inflection point) occurred at a lower level of CFU-S in marrow previously irradiated with 20-30 Gy. This change in the inflection point indicates a radiation dose-dependent decrease consistent with the decrease in bone marrow cellularity. The decrease in effective stem cell domains after 20 Gy was calculated to be about 35%. We interpret these results to reflect the highly localized nature of delayed radiation damage to the marrow microenvironment.
Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Drainage of Pancreatic Fluid Collections (with Video)

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is often used to guide drainage of pancreatic fluid collections (PFCs). EUS enhances the diagnosis of cystic pancreatic lesions and enables real-time image-guided control of PFC drainage. EUS may facilitate the endoscopic treatment of patients with pancreatic necrosis and patients with disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome.
Seed Removal by an Introduced Scatter-Hoarder on a Caribbean Island

Abstract The introduction of non-native seed dispersers has the potential to significantly alter distributions and relative abundances of native plants. Although effects of introduced seed predators have been documented, little is known about how introduced dispersers influence seed movement patterns. We investigated seed removal of seven rainforest species on the island of Dominica in the Lesser Antilles by the entire seed-remover community and specifically by the Red-rumped Agouti, Dasyprocta leporina, a scatter-hoarding rodent introduced to the island approximately 2500 years ago. We recorded removal rates in three regions of Dominica from 168 experimentally placed seed groups containing a total of 1356 seeds. Seed groups were either accessible to the entire seed-remover community or placed within exclosures designed to exclude agoutis. Within 13 days, 47 percent and 28 percent of seeds had been removed from control groups and agouti exclosure groups, respectively, leading to 19 percent of seed removal...
Optimization of chemical functionalities of indole-2-carboxamides to improve allosteric parameters for the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1).

5-Chloro-3-ethyl-N-(4-(piperidin-1-yl)phenethyl)-1H-indole-2-carboxamide (1; ORG27569) is a prototypical allosteric modulator for the cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1). Here, we reveal key structural requirements of indole-2-carboxamides for allosteric modulation of CB1: a critical chain length at the C3-position, an electron withdrawing group at the C5-position, the length of the linker between the amide bond and the phenyl ring B, and the amino substituent on the phenyl ring B. These significantly impact the binding affinity (KB) and the binding cooperativity (α). A potent CB1 allosteric modulator 5-chloro-N-(4-(dimethylamino)phenethyl)-3-propyl-1H-indole-2-carboxamide (12d) was identified. It exhibited a KB of 259.3 nM with a strikingly high binding α of 24.5. We also identified 5-chloro-N-(4-(dimethylamino)phenethyl)-3-hexyl-1H-indole-2-carboxamide (12f) with a KB of 89.1 nM, which is among the lowest KB values obtained for any allosteric modulator of CB1. These positive allosteric modulators of ortho...
Toxicity of weed seeds common to the southeastern United States: a review

Abstract The object of this review was to bring together in one place pertinent research findings concerning the toxicity of weed seeds commonly encountered as grain contaminants in the Southeastern United States. The physical characteristics of the plants are described along with any unique utilization of the plant or seed by other human cultures. The toxic compound or group of compounds is given when known, along with the common name or names used in the industry. Histological changes or anomalies as well as physical and performance-related symptoms are discussed for a range of species. Information from literature searches is summarized concerning crotalaria, Cassia obtusifolia, Cassia occidentalis, sesbania, jimson weed, and cockleburs.
Multiple transport proteins involved in the detoxification of endo- and xenobiotics

Transport mechanisms involved in the exclusion of xeno- and endobiotic toxins from the cellular environment play a crucial role in protecting cells from toxicity of these compounds. A transporter designated as dinitrophenyl S-glutathione ATPase (DNP-SG ATPase) present in human erythrocyte membrane has been characterized in our laboratory. The unique functional features of this transporter include its ability to mediate ATP-dependent transmembrane movement of organic anions such as glutathione conjugates, as well as weakly cationic amphiphilic compounds such as doxorubicin and other substrates of P-glycoprotein. The substrate specificity profile of DNP-SG ATPase overlaps with those of the drug efflux pumps, P-glycoprotein, multidrug resistance associated protein (MRP), and the multi-specific organic anion transporters (MOAT) despite its distinct structural properties from these transporters. Possible functional interrelationships among these transporters is discussed in this review and it is proposed that analogous to the phase I and phase II drug metabolizing enzymes the xeno- and endobiotic transporters may belong to several distinct gene families members of which share overlapping catalytic properties. Their functional diversity covering a wide range of substrate affinities provides protection from structurally diverse xeno- and endobiotic toxicants.
Effect of Active Workstation Use on Workload, Task Performance, and Postural and Physiological Responses

OCCUPATIONAL APPLICATION: We assessed workload and performance when using two active workstations. Our results, consistent with earlier evidence, indicates that active workstations do not increase physical activity at the expense of reduced performance and operator workload, if these workstations are used for simple tasks that do not require great attention or fine motor control. Active workstations also allowed for more variability in posture and reduced static posture. However, reinforcement of ergonomics recommendations in terms of reducing non-neutral postures may be necessary.TECHNICAL ABSTRACT Background: Over the past 30 years, work has become more sedentary due to increased computer desk work, which has led to the development of major health consequences such as obesity and diabetes. One promising intervention for decreasing sedentariness is the incorporation of active workstations. Objective: We investigated the impact of two active workstations (standing and walking) on workload, task performanc...
Research on Fault Diagnosis Technology for Smart Substations

In order to completely diagnose faults in smart substations and improve the reliability of them, this paper proposes a comprehensive fault diagnosis technology based on the analysis of packet protocol, network topology,communication relationship and audit data. The technology integrates the substation protocol analysis, SNMP-based fault diagnosis, active detection, fault cause analysis and location technology. Simulation results show that this technology can quickly locate faults in substations, and help operation and maintenance personnel in diagnosis and troubleshooting.
Changes and significance for prostaglandin E_2 level in plasma of patients with Kawasaki disease

Objective To observe the prostaglandin E2(PGE2) level in plasma of patients with Kawasaki disease(KD) and discuss the clinical significance. Methods Thirty-five patients with KD which treated in our hospital from May 2013 to October 2014 were selected. The plasma concentrations of PGE2 were analyzed by ELISA technique. Real-time quantitative PCR was used to evaluate the expression level of cyclooxygenases-1(COX-1), cyclooxygenases-2(COX-2), tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α), interleukin-6(IL-6) on CD14+monocyte/macrophage cells(MC) before and after intravenous immunoglobulin(IVIG). Fifteen healthy children were selected as the control group, with the above indicators measured. Results The levels of PGE2, COX-1, COX-2, TNF-α and IL-6 in acute KD patients were significantly higher than those in the control group(P0.05), and they were down-regulated after IVIG(P0.05). The level of PGE2 and COX-2 in KD patients with coronary artery lesion were significantly higher than those without coronary artery lesion(P0.05), and there were no statistically significant difference in COX-1,TNF-α and IL-6 between the two groups(P0.05). Conclusion Prostaglandin E2 level in plasma of patients with KD is up-regulated and may play an important role in inflammatory and immune response and oxidative stress.
Surgically documented segmental medullary sponge kidney: case report.

AbstractA case of histologically documented segmental medullary sponge kidney cured by segmental nephrectomy is reported.
Plot and Causation: Related Events

The problems begin with the definitions. Let us set aside the secret plan, though an author’s scheming about a story may have some resemblance to conspiratorial thinking. Plot is a sequence of narrated events. Or, plot is a set of events related by causation. Plot is a kind of story, such as the marriage plot, whose evocation may or may not actually govern the shape of the story— Jeffrey Eugenides’ The Marriage Plot (2011) illustrates this possibility. Plot is the story in the way the narrator tells it (in the text’s discourse). Or, plot is what the reader understands as the real story, having deciphered the narrator’s telling and gotten at the underlying events. Discussions of plot can emphasize narrative’s complicated relations with time (chronology), order (and disorder), and generic conventions. (Each of these elements is treated in its own chapter, following this one.) Plot’s deep structures have been studied by structuralist theorists interested in the ‘grammar’ of narrative. Aspects of plot, including episodes, digressions, multiple plots, and closure, have in themselves attracted a great deal of critical attention. An influential school of thought in feminist criticism sees some women writers as working against plot or traditional plot devices. Along with a narrator (one who tells) and characters (those existents or figures who embody actions and thoughts), plot is a core feature of narrative fiction. Not everyone has been happy about this fact.
Homeostatic gas-exchange parameters inferred from 13C/12C in tree rings of conifers.

The CO2 concentration of the atmosphere has increased by almost 30% in the past two centuries, with most of the increase (>5 Pa) during the past 60 years. Controlled environment studies of crop plants dependent on the C3 photosynthetic pathway indicate that an increase of this magnitude would enhance net photosynthesis, reduce stomatal conductance, and increase the difference in CO2 concentration across the stomata, i.e., CO2 concentration outside the leaf to that within (c a-c i). Here we report evidence, based on stable isotope composition of tree rings from three species of field-grown, native conifer trees, that the trees have indeed responded. However, rather than increasing c a-c i, intercellular CO2 concentrations have shifted upward to match the rise in atmospheric concentrations, holding c a-c i constant. No differences were detected among Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa), or western white pine (Pinus monticola). The values of c a-c i were inferred from stable carbon isotope ratio (δ13C) of tree ring holocellulose adjusted for the 0.6–2.6‰ difference between holocellulose and whole sapwood. The cellulose extraction removed contaminants deposited in the tree ring after it formed and the adjustment corrected for the enrichment of cellulose relative to whole tissue. The whole sapwood values were then adjusted for bublished estimates of past atmospheric δ13CO2 and CO2 concentrations. To avoid confounding tree age with CO2, cellulose deposited by saplings in the 1980s was compared to cellulose deposited in the inner rings of nature trees when the mature trees were saplings, between 1910–1929 and 1941–1970; thus saplings were compared to saplings. In a separate analysis, the juvenile effect, which describes the tendency for δ13C to increase in the first decades of a tree's life, was quantified independent of source CO2 effects. This study provides evidence that conifers have undergone adjustments in the intercellular CO2 concentration that have maintained c a-c i constant. Based on these results and others, we suggest that c a-c i, which has also been referred to as the intrinsic water-use efficiency, should be considered a homeostatic gas-exchange set point for these conifer species.
Impact of pulmonary exposure to gold core silver nanoparticles of different size and capping agents on cardiovascular injury

The uses of engineered nanomaterials have expanded in biomedical technology and consumer manufacturing. Furthermore, pulmonary exposure to various engineered nanomaterials has, likewise, demonstrated the ability to exacerbate cardiac ischemia reperfusion (I/R) injury. However, the influence of particle size or capping agent remains unclear. In an effort to address these influences we explored response to 2 different size gold core nanosilver particles (AgNP) with two different capping agents at 2 different time points. We hypothesized that a pulmonary exposure to AgNP induces cardiovascular toxicity influenced by inflammation and vascular dysfunction resulting in expansion of cardiac I/R Injury that is sensitive to particle size and the capping agent. Male Sprague–Dawley rats were exposed to 200 μg of 20 or 110 nm polyvinylprryolidone (PVP) or citrate capped AgNP. One and 7 days following intratracheal instillation serum was analyzed for concentrations of selected cytokines; cardiac I/R injury and isolated coronary artery and aorta segment were assessed for constrictor responses and endothelial dependent relaxation and endothelial independent nitric oxide dependent relaxation. AgNP instillation resulted in modest increase in selected serum cytokines with elevations in IL-2, IL-18, and IL-6. Instillation resulted in a derangement of vascular responses to constrictors serotonin or phenylephrine, as well as endothelial dependent relaxations with acetylcholine or endothelial independent relaxations by sodium nitroprusside in a capping and size dependent manner. Exposure to both 20 and 110 nm AgNP resulted in exacerbation cardiac I/R injury 1 day following IT instillation independent of capping agent with 20 nm AgNP inducing marginally greater injury. Seven days following IT instillation the expansion of I/R injury persisted but the greatest injury was associated with exposure to 110 nm PVP capped AgNP resulted in nearly a two-fold larger infarct size compared to naive. Exposure to AgNP may result in vascular dysfunction, a potentially maladaptive sensitization of the immune system to respond to a secondary insult (e.g., cardiac I/R) which may drive expansion of I/R injury at 1 and 7 days following IT instillation where the extent of injury could be correlated with capping agents and AgNP size.
Overuse Cervical Dystonia: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Background : Overuse or task-specific dystonia has been described in a number of professions characterized by repetitive actions, typically affecting the upper extremities. Cervical dystonia (CD), however, has rarely been associated with overuse. Case Report : We present a case report of typical CD that developed in the context of chronic repetitive movements associated with the patient’s professional occupation as an office manager who spent many hours per day holding a phone to his ear. Discussion : Overuse CD should be suspected when typical symptoms and signs of CD develop in the context of chronic repetitive use or overuse of cervical muscles, especially where exacerbating tasks involve asymmetric postures.
The Dialectical Utility of Heuristic Processing in Outdoor Adventure Education.

Heuristics—cognitive shortcuts used in decision-making events—have been paradoxically praised for their contribution to decision-making efficiency and prosecuted for their contribution to decision-making error (Gigerenzer & Gaissmaier, 2011; Gigerenzer, Todd, & ABC Research Group, 1999; Kahneman, 2011; Kahneman, Slovic, & Tversky, 1982). Recent research in outdoor adventure education (OAE) using the heuristic concept to diagnose field-based decision-making errors has ignored this duality, focusing solely on the negative potential of heuristic processing (e.g., Clement, 1997; McCammon, 2004a; Simenhois & Savage, 2009; Tremper, 2008; Wheeler, 2008) and neglecting positive and prudent uses of heuristic processing in field-based risk management. This conceptual manuscript follows the suggestion of Furman, Shooter, and Schumann (2010) to explore the dual-nature of heuristic processing in OAE. Using a dialectical method, the authors interrogate the dominant, negativistic interpretation of heuristic processing as well as illustrate the common uses of heuristics in risk management curricula within outdoor pursuits. In the resulting synthesis, the authors show that a symptom-prescription view of heuristic duality can reclaim the utility of heuristics as decision-making aids (e.g., scenarios, mnemonics, visual models) in OAE, as well as provide implications for decision-making scholarship and field-based practice.
High School to Law School: Marshall-Brennan and Moot Court

Over the past twenty-five years, the racial and ethnic composition of American society has changed rapidly and dramatically. The American Bar Association and other concerned observers have long been concerned about the lack of corresponding growth in diversity in the legal profession. This book explores why minority representation in the legal profession is so important and offers concrete examples of programs that work to improve the diversity pipeline. In the chapter entitled “Marshall-Brennan and Moot Court: American University Washington College of Law and Others,” Maryam Ahranjani documents the history and expansion of the Marshall-Brennan Constitutional Literacy Project and provides data indicating the positive effects on students’ civic and constitutional literacy. The author argues that the Marshall-Brennan Project - a revolutionary program that matches law students at public high schools in underserved communities to teach young people about their Constitutional rights and responsibilities in a meaningful, accurate, and engaging way – provides a platform for American law schools to effectively address the lack of diversity in the legal profession while simultaneously providing significant professional training to law students.