nils-herrmann/clean_scirepeval huggingface dataset:
[Anti-inflammatory effect of diethylcarbamazine citrate].

Diethylcarbamazine citrate (DEC) at 180-300 mg/kg ip or 560 mg/kg ig inhibited hind paw swelling induced by sc 0.15 ml of carrageenan in normal and adrenalectomized rats. DEC ip 300 mg/kg also inhibited the same swelling induced by sc 2.5% formaldehyde in rats. The proliferation of granuloma induced by cotton-pellets tended to be inhibited by DEC, although not significantly. It inhibited the swelling of mouse ear induced by xylene and the increased vascular permeability induced by ip 0.7% HAC. DEC neither prolonged the survival time in adrenalectomized rats nor increased the weight of the adrenal or plasma cortisol levels in normal rats. DEC decreased the prostaglandin E content in inflammatory tissue, although less than the extent in the indomethacin group. These results indicate that the anti-inflammatory action of DEC is presumably due to the inhibition of synthesis or the release of prostaglandin E, in addition to a possible action mediated by its leukotriene synthesis inhibitor action.

Field of study: Biology, Chemistry, Medicine
Differential susceptibility epidemic models

We formulate compartmental differential susceptibility (DS) susceptible-infective-removed (SIR) models by dividing the susceptible population into multiple subgroups according to the susceptibility of individuals in each group. We analyze the impact of disease-induced mortality in the situations where the number of contacts per individual is either constant or proportional to the total population. We derive an explicit formula for the reproductive number of infection for each model by investigating the local stability of the infection-free equilibrium. We further prove that the infection-free equilibrium of each model is globally asymptotically stable by qualitative analysis of the dynamics of the model system and by utilizing an appropriately chosen Liapunov function. We show that if the reproductive number is greater than one, then there exists a unique endemic equilibrium for all of the DS models studied in this paper. We prove that the endemic equilibrium is locally asymptotically stable for the models with no disease-induced mortality and the models with contact numbers proportional to the total population. We also provide sufficient conditions for the stability of the endemic equilibrium for other situations. We briefly discuss applications of the DS models to optimal vaccine strategies and the connections between the DS models and predator-prey models with multiple prey populations or host-parasitic interaction models with multiple hosts are also given.

Field of study: Biology, Mathematics
Changes in arthropod diversity along a land use driven gradient of shrub cover in savanna rangelands: identification of suitable indicators

Shrub encroachment linked to heavy grazing has dramatically changed savanna landscapes, and is a major form of rangeland degradation. Our understanding of how shrub encroachment affects arthropod communities is poor, however. Here, we investigate the effects of shrub encroachment on abundance and diversity of ground-dwelling (wingless) arthropods at varying levels of shrub cover in the southern Kalahari. We also ascertain if invertebrate assemblage composition changes with habitat structure and identify which aspects of habitat structure (e.g., grass cover, herbaceous plant cover, shrub density) correlate most strongly with these changes. Ant, scorpion and dung beetle abundance increased with shrub cover, whereas grasshoppers and solifuges declined. Spider and beetle abundance exhibited hump-shaped relationships with shrub cover. RTU richness within orders either mirrored abundances, or exhibited no trend. Shrub density was the habitat component most correlated with similarities between invertebrate assemblages. Ground-dwelling arthropods showed clear shifts in species assemblage composition at a similarity level of 65% according to shrub density. Changes in indicator species showed that within the Tenebrionidae (darkling beetles), certain species respond positively to shrub thickening, replacing other species within the Family. Small-bodied, wingless Scarabaeidae (dung beetles) tended to increase with increased shrub density and three species emerged as significant indicators of more thickened habitats, although this might be a response to greater dung availability, rather than habitat structure itself. We conclude that because ground-dwelling invertebrates showed such clear responses in species assemblage composition, they present excellent candidates for use as indicator species in further studies into bush encroachment.

Field of study: Environmental science
Principle and Research Progress on Preparation Solar Grade (SoG) Silicon by Metallurgical Route

With ever-increasing need in photovoltaic industry,the shortage of silicon feedstock which can meet technical and economic specifications of the photovoltaic cells is severe.More and more attentions have been paid to the research of producing solar grade silicon by refining metallurgical grade silicon.The development status and trend of the world photovoltaic industry are reviewed and the process for obtaining polycrystalline solar-grade silicon by chemical and metallurgical routes are contrastively analyzd.The technology principles of solar grade silicon prepared by metallurgical routes along with conventional purification techniques are emphatically introduced.Meanwhile,the low cost technology for manufacturing solar grade multicrystal silicon is introduced and it is pointed out that the metallurgical method maybe the future research direction for purifying multicrystal silicon.

Field of study: Materials science
Single-mode phonon transmission in symmetry-broken carbon nanotubes: Role of phonon symmetries

We investigate the single-mode phonon transmission in symmetry-broken carbon nanotubes with the Stone-Wales defect using a mode-matching method. To gain an insight into the features of the transmission, the symmetry properties of phonons are analyzed within the line group symmetry theory for single-walled carbon nanotubes. Our results show that the transmission for acoustic phonons with low group velocity is heavily suppressed, and the long-wave optical phonons near the Γ point are strongly scattered by defects. We clarify that this reduction in transmission for phonons with small group velocity is a universal behavior resulting from the broken translational invariance. Furthermore, fine structures of dips in the transmission are observed for some phonon modes, depending on the unmatched symmetry operations between the specific phonon mode and the defect. Our findings reveal that heat generation in experiments for the defective nanotubes may be contributed largely from the phonons with low group velocity ...

Field of study: Physics
Kinugasa Reaction: A Direct One‐Pot Route to Highly Functionalized β‐Lactams

The β-lactam antibiotics are among the most commonly prescribed drugs in the world and their importance has been demonstrated by the isolation and syntheses of several classes of these agents. Of the synthetic routes used to access this interesting scaffold, the Kinugasa reaction utilizes a convergent strategy based on cycloaddition between readily available terminal alkynes and nitrones. Asymmetric versions involving chiral catalysts, chiral auxiliaries or chiral substrates have also been reported. This article gives a brief overview of the Kinugasa reaction and of recent advances since its discovery.

Field of study: Chemistry
Study and manufacture of yoghurt ice cream

A new kind of fermented milk ice cream was developed from fresh milk according to the normal ice- cream processing technique, through fermenting a part of milk by lactobacillus. This new product has the charac- teristic of traditional ice cream and special flavor and health function of yoghurt, attaining the request of ice cream criterion. Furthermore, the best recipe and the technological condition were confirmed in this paper.

Field of study: Agricultural and Food sciences
Persistence of direction increases the drift velocity of run and tumble chemotaxis

Escherichia coli is a motile bacterium that moves up a chemoattractant gradient by performing a biased random walk composed of alternating runs and tumbles. Previous models of run and tumble chemotaxis neglect one or more features of the motion, namely (a) a cell cannot directly detect a chemoattractant gradient but rather makes temporal comparisons of chemoattractant concentration, (b) rather than being entirely random, tumbles exhibit persistence of direction, meaning that the new direction after a tumble is more likely to be in the forward hemisphere, and (c) rotational Brownian motion makes it impossible for an E. coli cell to swim in a straight line during a run. This paper presents an analytic calculation of the chemotactic drift velocity taking account of (a), (b) and (c), for weak chemotaxis. The analytic results are verified by Monte Carlo simulation. The results reveal a synergy between temporal comparisons and persistence that enhances the drift velocity, while rotational Brownian motion reduces the drift velocity.

Field of study: Biology, Mathematics
Ultra-High Upset, Megarad-Hard Si-Gate CMOS/SOS Code Generator

A high-speed, radiation-hard code generator LSI array has been developed and fabricated. A unique design approach combined with hard silicon-gate CMOS/ SOS processing has resulted in an ultra-high transientupset threshold (~1011 rads/s for 50 ns pulse width) and megarad total-dose hardness. This paper describes the design as well as characterizes the electrical, radiation and temperature capabilities of this device. Even with modified design and the radiation-hard process, the code generator achieves better than 20 megabit per second operation. The measured 25°C and 125°C clock-to-output propagation delays are 46 and 52 ns respectively prior to radiation exposure. The measured clock-to-output propagation delay after 106 rads (si) is 55 ns. These results demonstrate Si-gate CMOS/SOS as a successful radiation-hard LSI technology.

Field of study: Physics
Recovering the drivers of sampling bias in Bignonieae (Bignoniaceae) and identifying priority areas for new survey efforts

Identifying knowledge gaps and the potential biases and limitations of biological databases is essential for biogeographical research, to efficiently plan biodiversity surveys, and to accurately design conservation efforts. Here we describe the taxonomic, temporal, and spatial coverage of a comprehensive database mainly composed of data collected between 1963 and 2003 of the largest clade of Neotropical lianas, the tribe Bignonieae (Bignoniaceae). We assess the level of database completeness and propose new survey areas to fill knowledge gaps and optimize sampling coverage. The Bignonieae database includes 28,763 records representing 98% of the known species. The database covers 72% of the Neotropical region and includes data collected mainly during the last 40 years of the 20th century. Members of the tribe are conspicuous components of lowland forests, with most species showing narrow range sizes. The Amazon rainforest is the most under-sampled region and the area with the lowest sampling rate. On the other hand, the best sampled areas are scattered across Central America, the Peruvian and Bolivian Amazon, and selected Brazilian cities. Sampling rate across the geographical extent of Bignonieae was best predicted by the distance from cities. Collection effort is needed across the Neotropics so that a higher number of localities can be sampled, especially in the Amazon, where Bignonieae is centered. New surveys are urgently needed to maximize new species discoveries and to effectively design conservation plans that maximize biodiversity-rich regions facing increased threat.

Field of study: Environmental science
Crystallization and preliminary X-ray analysis of B-domain fragments of a Staphylococcus aureus collagen-binding protein.

Recombinant proteins of monomeric and dimeric B-domain repeats of a Staphylococcus aureus FDA 574 collagen-binding adhesin have been crystallized. The single repeat unit (B1) was crystallized in a body-centered orthorhombic lattice with a = 96.9, b = 101.3, c = 120. 8 A in either the I222 or I212121 space group. These crystals diffracted to 2.5 A resolution and the calculated Vm values of 3.2 and 2.2 A3 Da-1 suggest the possibility of a dimer or a trimer in the asymmetric unit. The two-repeat fragment (B1B2) crystallized in the orthorhombic space group P212121 with cell dimensions a = 42.4, b = 79.4, c = 130.4 A and diffracted to 2.3 A resolution. For this species, the calculated Vm value of 2.2 A3 Da-1 indicates the presence of a monomer in the asymmetric unit.

Field of study: Chemistry
In vivo IL-1β-induced modulation of G-protein αO subunit subclass in the hypothalamic ventromedial nucleus: implications to IL-1β-associated anorexia

The intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration of interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) induces anorexia in rats at doses that yield estimated pathophysiological concentrations in the cerebrospinal fluid. IL-1beta also induces anorexia when administered into the hypothalamic ventromedial nucleus (VMN), an important brain site for the control of feeding. A variety of guanine nucleotide binding protein (G-protein) coupled receptors (e. g., for neurotransmitters and neuropeptides) participate in the integrative regulation of feeding. Our previous studies reported that the VMN G-protein alphaO common subunit subclass is involved in the control of normal feeding, and that IL-1beta modulates calcium channel currents via a pertussis toxin (PTX)-sensitive G-protein (GalphaO/Galphai). Here, we examined the profile of GalphaO protein expression in the hypothalamic VMN during IL-1beta-induced anorexia. Intracerebroventricular microinfusion of IL-1beta (0.5 to 8.0 ng/24 h for 72 h) into the third cerebral ventricle dose-dependently induced anorexia (p<0.001) and decreased the VMN GalphaO common protein levels (p<0.001). Heat-inactivated IL-1beta and IL-1beta plus IL-1 receptor antagonist (a competitive inhibitor of IL-1beta action) had no effect on food intake or on VMN GalphaO common protein content. RT-PCR analysis of VMN RNA from IL-1beta-treated rats generated an expression profile for GalphaO common subunit; however, no modulation at the mRNA level was observed. The results suggest that anorexia induced by the central administration of IL-1beta involves modification of G-protein alphaO common subunit profile in the central nervous system.

Field of study: Biology
Incorporating an Entrepreneurial Certificate into the Pharmacy Curriculum

To describe the implementation and assessment of an entrepreneurial certificate program within an elective.  An entrepreneurial certificate program through the Kauffman Foundation was integrated within an entrepreneurial elective to provide students at Presbyterian College School of Pharmacy with more in-depth training regarding entrepreneurial skills. A pre-/post-survey was administered to assess knowledge and skills obtained.  Thirty-three students completed the survey. By completing the entrepreneurial certificate, 67% of students increased their knowledge and skills in entrepreneurism.  Incorporating an entrepreneurial certificate program into the pharmacy curriculum increases student confidence in entrepreneurial principles and skills.

Field of study: Education, Medicine
Transcranial magnetic stimulation for the treatment of depression in neurologic disorders

Depression is commonly associated with neurologic disorders. Although depression in neurologic conditions often is associated with a negative impact on quality of life, it frequently is poorly managed. Some factors, such as a multidrug regimen, lack of efficacy, and side effects of antidepressants may explain why depression is not adequately treated in patients with neurologic disorders. Therefore, this population needs new approaches for depression treatment, and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) may be one of them because it has been shown to be effective for the treatment of depression alone and depression in certain neurologic diseases such as Parkinson’s disease and stroke. rTMS is a noninvasive, focal, and painless treatment associated with few, mild side effects. It may be effective in the treatment of neurologic diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and epilepsy. In this paper, we discuss the potential risks and benefits of rTMS treatment for depression in Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, stroke, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s disease. Lastly, a framework that includes the parameters of stimulation (intensity, frequency, number of pulses, and site of stimulation) for the treatment of depression in neurologic diseases is proposed.

Field of study: Medicine, Psychology
Dispositions and the principle of least action revisited

Some time ago, Joel Katzav (2004. Dispositions and the principle of least action. Analysis 64: 206–14; 2005. Ellis on the limitations of dispositionalism. Analysis 65: 92–4) and Brian Ellis (2005. Katzav on the limitations of dispositionalism.  debated the compatibility of dispositional essentialism with the principle of least action. Surprisingly, very little has been said on the matter since, even by the most naturalistically inclined metaphysicians. Here, we revisit the Katzav–Ellis arguments of 2004–05. We outline the two problems for the dispositionalist identified Katzav in his 2004 (we call these the ‘contingent action-quantities’ and ‘explanatory’ objections), and claim they are not as problematic for the dispositional essentialist at it first seems – but not for the reasons espoused by Ellis

Field of study: Philosophy
Environmental significance of foraminiferal morphogroups in Jurassic North sea deltas

The distribution of morphological groups of foraminifera has been analysed in Toarcian and Bajocian deposits of the northern North Sea and the Yorkshire coast. The deposits are referred to prodeltaic, lower delta front and interdistributary bay environments, and contain mainly or entirely agglutinating assemblages of low to intermediate diversity. A total of 33 agglutinating species are recognized in the studied material, and these are arranged into eleven morphotypes composing seven subgroups and four morphogroups. The categories are distinguished on the basis of main morphological features of the taxa, combined with their life positions and micro habitats as inferred from modern analogues. The prodelta deposits were formed in a normal saline and slightly stagnant depositional setting with foraminiferal faunas composed mainly of surficial and infaunal morphogroups. The lower delta front and interdistributary bay sediments were deposited in shallow hyposaline waters strongly dominated by an epifaunal morphogroup with a partly phytal association. A model of agglutinated morphotype distribution reveals increasing morphotype diversity (and by inference, ecological niche span) from interdistributary bay, through lower delta front, to prodeltaic environments.

Field of study: Environmental science, Geography
AN EXPERIMENTAL STUDY OF STRENGTHENING OF INITIALLY LOADED REINFORCED CONCRETE BEAMS USING CFRP SHEETS

Six initially loaded reinforced concrete (RC) beams with epoxy-bonded carbon fiberglass reinforced plastic (CFRP) sheets and two RC beams were experimentally investigated. The failure mechanism of RC beams strengthened with externally bonded CFRP sheets is analyzed. The effect of load history on flexural capacity is studied. The results generally indicate that the flexural strength of the repaired beams is increased. If the initial load is basically the same, the ultimate strength of reinforced concrete beams strengthened with CFRP sheets is almost the same regardless of load history at the time of strengthening. At the same time, an analytical solution is performed to testify the experimental results. The analytical results are in good agreement with those of experiments. A design method is proposed based on the experimental data.

Field of study: Engineering
Marine bacterioplankton production of polysaccharidic and proteinaceous particles under different nutrient regimes.

The influence of inorganic nutrient concentrations on the ability of bacterioplankton to produce and degrade polysaccharidic transparent exopolymer particles (TEPs) and proteinaceous Coomassie-stained particles (CSPs) was investigated in an 11-day experiment. The dynamics of these particles were followed in prefiltered (1 microm) northern Adriatic seawater enclosures enriched either with 1 microM orthophosphate (main limiting nutrient in this area), 10 microM ammonium or both orthophosphate and ammonium. These enclosures were referenced to a nonenriched control. A high potential for bacterial TEP and CSP production was observed (10(4) - 10(5) L(-1) for particles larger than 4 microm). In conditions of high orthophosphate concentration (either orthophosphate enriched or both orthophosphate and ammonium enriched), lower abundances and surface areas of CSPs were obtained, whereas TEP dynamics were more affected by unbalanced enrichments where only orthophosphate or ammonium was added. The impact of unbalanced nutrient ratios on TEPs was indicated by their higher abundance but low capacity for Alcian blue absorption, implying a change in their structure. Inorganic nutrient availability was thus proven to affect the bacterial potential for producing and degrading bacterially derived TEPs and CSPs.

Field of study: Biology, Environmental science
The Development of School Based Curriculum in Ghana Schools: The Effects on Students

The concept of school based curriculum development has been of keen interest through my profession as a teacher. Since end of school test is based on the central curriculum, teachers and stakeholders usually pay less attention to other curriculum types, like school-based curriculum development (SBCD). Can students achieve something out of SBCD? Does it have any positive effect on students learning? With different learning needs of learners and dynamism in education. I argue that SBCD should be introduced in Ghana schools. Through literature mining, mine and colleague’s experience, I discuss the following as to why SCBD should be introduced into Ghana schools: First to meet the needs and interests of students and the school community; Second, to insert school learning into local contexts, knowledge, and resources, and meet local and national aspirations; Thirdly, respond to new social issues and technology in education.  School based curriculum development (SBCD), central curriculum, student learning, Student interest, community interest, social issues, local learning context.

Field of study: Education
Analysis of Multicast ATM Switching Networks Using CRWR Scheme

A (large) multicast ATM switch with external structure of output queueing and internal structure of buffered MINs (multistage interconnection networks) is considered in the paper, where the buffered MIN (also called switching network) is composed of switching elements with shared buffer output queueing. The cell replication while routing (CRWR) scheme is used in the switch to implement multicast function. In this paper, we study the performance of the switch with multicast traffic, mainly via computer simulations. The multicast traffic can be random and bursty. We found that compared to unicast traffic, multicast traffic with truncated geometric distribution of cell fanouts has only a slightly worse impact on the performance of switching elements in isolation or in the last stage of the switching network. The multicast traffic has no worse effect on the switch output buffer behavior and cell delay in the switching network. Moreover, using multiple MINs in parallel can substantially improve the switching network performance for highly bursty traffic. Some analytical approximations are given which could be useful in the dimensioning of switching networks.

Field of study: Computer science