cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Immunochemical studies of an immunoglobulin M--immunoglobulin G mixed cryoglobulin.

Abstract A mixed IgG-IgM cryoglobulin was isolated from a patient with arthritis and glomerulonephritis. Electron microscopic examination of both cryoprecipitate and glomerular deposits revealed unusual structures designated as “cylindrical and annular bodies.” The IgM component was monoclonal and had antibody activity against IgG molecules. Ultracentrifugation showed that immune complex formation was not temperature dependent. From amino acid analysis, the IgM component of the cryoglobulin was classified as VHI-VκII. In terms of chemical characteristics, this cryoglobulin was not different from most of the others previously described. These findings raise the possibility that the ultrastructural organization of the antigen-antibody complex could be related to its cryoprecipitation properties and could be a general property of cryoglobulins.
A laboratory based capstone course in computer security for undergraduates

We describe a laboratory based capstone course in computer security for undergraduates. The course is based on a sequence of hands-on laboratory exercises for four teams of students. It emphasizes defensive tools and techniques at the expense of attacks; it also takes a network centered view where student teams set up and configure entire networks. In this paper, we describe the course, how it fits into the curriculum, and the laboratory facilities we have developed. We then present the details of some of our lab exercises, and discuss the lessons that we have learned.
A decade of design in digital government research

Abstract Digital government research often centers on information technology artifacts designed for the purpose of improving access to or processes within government. Because of the centricity of the technology artifact, much of this research builds upon theories and prescriptions adapted from the information systems discipline. In information systems, the study of artifact design has benefitted from the adoption of the rigor and generalizability enabled by design science research. The purpose of this paper was to provide an overview of design science principles guiding the construction of technological artifacts, which we use to examine a decade of digital government research articles that fall into the design science camp. We assess these articles, using the guidelines of Hevner, March, and Park (2004) for conducting and presenting design science research; we identify common strengths and gaps; we recommend how digital government researchers may benefit from applying a grounded view of design to expand the generalizability of their work; and finally, we conclude the paper with a discussion of ways to open up the narrow focus of design science to a broader understanding of the impact of external factors, such as the environment and organizational milieu, on the complex setting most digital government innovation inhabits.
Structural characterization of developmentally expressed antigenic markers on chicken erythrocytes using monoclonal antibodies

Abstract Monoclonal antibodies selected for embryonic and adult erythrocyte specificity have been used to characterize developmentally expressed markers on the surfaces of mature circulating erythrocytes of young and adult chickens. The data presented demonstrate that the antigenic changes which occur on the avian erythrocyte membrane with organismic maturation can be accounted for, at least in part, by changes in the expression of structurally different, but possibly related polypeptides. Monoclonal antibodies selected for specific reactivity with the erythrocytes of newly hatched chicks recognize a glycoprotein of 48,000 daltons apparent molecular weight. On two-dimensional isoelectric focusing gels, this antigen, which appears identical in all strains studied, displays microheterogeneity; consisting of eight to nine closely spaced spots with an isoelectric midpoint of approximately 5.5. This antigen is not expressed on the circulating erythrocytes of mature birds; however, an antigen with similar, but perhaps not completely identical structure, can be detected within the adult bone marrow. The monoclonal antibodies which show preferential binding to the circulating erythrocytes of adult birds also immune precipitate an antigen of 48,000 daltons apparent molecular weight, but this antigen has a more basic isoelectric point. The adult antigen is polymorphic. Slightly different patterns were obtained on two-dimensional gels with erythrocytes from inbred birds having different major histocompatibility genotypes. It has a major component near pH 7.0 and additional focusing spots usually occurring at a slightly lower molecular weight near pH 6.8 or 6.6 depending upon strain. Competitive radiobinding assays with B-system-specific alloantisers suggest that these antigens may in fact be antigens of the polymorphic BG locus of the chicken major histocompatibility complex. One-dimensional peptide mapping of the immune precipitated embryonic and adult erythrocyte polypeptides demonstrate that the antigens are borne on distinct but possibly related polypeptides. Both common and unique peptide fragments are found in the digestion products. Selective solubilization of the chicken erythrocyte membrane suggests that the antigens are integral membrane proteins extractable with nonionic detergent but not with reagents which remove peripheral proteins.
Does Routine Nasogastric Tube Placement After an Operation for Perforated Appendicitis Make a Difference

Background. Divergent opinions exist regarding the routine use of nasogastric (NG) tubes in the postoperative management of patients undergoing abdominal surgery. Empiric use of an NG tube after abdominal surgery is presumed to prevent abdominal distension, vomiting, and ileus, which may complicate the postoperative course. To investigate the validity of this assumption, we compared the postoperative course of patients who underwent appendectomy for perforated appendicitis who subsequently either had or did not have an NG tube placed postoperatively. Methods. A retrospective chart review of all children operated for perforated appendicitis between 1999 and 2004 was performed. Patients with prolonged hospitalizations were excluded to eliminate bias created by patients with multiple operations and opportunities for NG placement. The use of an NG tube, time to first and to full oral feeds, length of hospitalization, and complications were compared between groups. Results. Patients with NG tubes left in place (N 105) were compared with those who did not receive an NG tube (N 54) following appendectomy for perforated appendicitis. Mean time to first oral intake was 3.8 d in those with NG tubes compared with 2.2 d in those without NG tubes (P < 0.001). Similarly, mean time to full feeds was 4.9 d when an NG tube was left compared with 3.4 d in those without tubes (P < 0.001). Mean length of stay was 6.0 d in those with NG tubes compared to 5.6 d in those without (P 0.002). Conclusions. The use of NG decompression after an operation for perforated appendicitis does not appear to improve the postoperative course and we recommend that it is not routinely used in this patient population.
Acute effects of metformin therapy include improvement of insulin resistance and ovarian morphology.

Objective To evaluate the acute effects of metformin therapy on biochemical markers and polycystic ovarian morphology among insulin-resistant (IR) and noninsulin-resistant (NIR) patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Design Prospective interventional study. Setting Reproductive endocrinology clinic in a university hospital. Patient(s) Five IR and five NIR patients with PCOS. The mean age of patients was 29.5 ± 4.8 years (range, 23–36 years). Intervention Metformin therapy, using 850 mg orally per day for 1 week. Main Outcome Measure(s) Serum levels of T, FSH, and LH, fasting glucose/insulin ratio, levels of anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) and inhibin B, and antral follicle count. Result(s) Levels of AMH and inhibin B were statistically significantly higher in patients with PCOS compared to controls (2.81 ± 1.79 ng/mL versus 0.95 ± 1.17 ng/mL, and 56.24 ± 29.39 pg/mL versus 17.89 ± 12.87 pg/mL, respectively). Levels of AMH and inhibin B were similar among IR and NIR patients with PCOS (2.77 ± 1.92 ng/mL versus 2.85 ± 1.89 ng/mL, and 53.96 ± 28.58 pg/mL versus 58.51 ± 33.28 pg/mL, respectively). One week of metformin therapy did not alter either AMH or inhibin B levels. However, there was a statistically significant increase in glucose/insulin ratios (4.59 ± 1.57 versus 6.35 ± 3.6), and a significant decrease in the number of antral follicles after 1 week of metformin therapy (38.8 ± 19.3 versus 23.1 ± 7.4). Conclusion(s) Levels of AMH and inhibin B are significantly increased in patients with PCOS compared to controls, but are not associated with insulin resistance. Low-dose metformin therapy improves IR and polycystic ovary morphology, even though levels of T, AMH, and inhibin B remain unchanged.
Three-dimensional muscle-tendon geometry after rectus femoris tendon transfer.

Background: Rectus femoris tendon transfer is performed in patients with cerebral palsy to improve knee flexion during walking. This procedure involves detachment of the muscle from its insertion into the quadriceps tendon and reattachment to one of the knee flexor muscles. The purpose of the presen
Low voltage technique for active RC filter

A new technique for converting active resistor-capacitor (RC) filters into low voltage designs is proposed. Additional current sources or resistors are added to a given active RC filter such that the supply voltage can be minimised by biasing the op amp input common-mode voltage to a voltage close to ground, independent of the input/output quiescent voltage.
Characterization of PMCA isoforms and their contribution to transcellular Ca2+ flux in MDCK cells

Plasma membrane Ca2+ ATPases (PMCAs) are ubiquitous in Ca2+-transporting organs, including the kidney. Using RT-PCR, we detected PMCA1b, PMCA2b (rare), and PMCA4b in Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK...
Imperatoxin A Induces Subconductance States in Ca2+ Release Channels (Ryanodine Receptors) of Cardiac and Skeletal Muscle

Single-channel and [3H]ryanodine binding experiments were carried out to examine the effects of imperatoxin activator (IpTxa), a 33 amino acid peptide isolated from the venom of the African scorpion Pandinus imperator, on rabbit skeletal and canine cardiac muscle Ca2+ release channels (CRCs). Single channel currents from purified CRCs incorporated into planar lipid bilayers were recorded in 250 mM KCl media. Addition of IpTxa in nanomolar concentration to the cytosolic (cis) side, but not to the lumenal (trans) side, induced substates in both ryanodine receptor isoforms. The substates displayed a slightly rectifying current-voltage relationship. The chord conductance at -40 mV was approximately 43% of the full conductance, whereas it was approximately 28% at a holding potential of +40 mV. The substate formation by IpTxa was voltage and concentration dependent. Analysis of voltage and concentration dependence and kinetics of substate formation suggested that IpTxa reversibly binds to the CRC at a single site in the voltage drop across the channel. The rate constant for IpTxa binding to the skeletal muscle CRC increased e-fold per +53 mV and the rate constant of dissociation decreased e-fold per +25 mV applied holding potential. The effective valence of the reaction leading to the substate was approximately 1.5. The IpTxa binding site was calculated to be located at approximately 23% of the voltage drop from the cytosolic side. IpTxa induced substates in the ryanodine-modified skeletal CRC and increased or reduced [3H]ryanodine binding to sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicles depending on the level of channel activation. These results suggest that IpTxa induces subconductance states in skeletal and cardiac muscle Ca2+ release channels by binding to a single, cytosolically accessible site different from the ryanodine binding site.
The influence of glucose on intracellular and extracellular pH in rat hippocampal slices during and after anoxia

In this study we investigated in rat hippocampal slices (1) how glucose availability affected tissue acidosis during and after anoxia, (2) whether the onset of anoxic depolarization was associated with a specific pH, (3) whether glycolysis was the major source of acidification before and during anoxic depolarization, and (4) whether improved recovery of synaptic function with elevated glucose levels was related to changes in tissue acidosis. Intracellular pH (pHi) and extracellular pH (pHo) were measured simultaneously before, during, and after anoxia in hippocampal slices bathed in 0, 5, 10, and 15 mM glucose. Slices exposed to 0 mM glucose were given 20 mM sodium lactate as a metabolic substrate. We found that the pHi and pHo at which anoxic depolarization occurred depended upon glucose concentration. We also found that elevated glucose availability increased acidification in both the intracellular and extracellular compartments during anoxia and delayed recovery of pH homeostasis after anoxia. Our results suggest that glycolysis is the primary source of acidosis before the onset of anoxic depolarization, but not during anoxic depolarization. Our results also suggest that moderate increases in acidosis resulting from increased glycolysis are potentially beneficial for anoxic survival.
Controller synthesis via mapping task sequence to Petri Nets in multi-agent collaboration applications

A systematic multi-agent controller synthesis approach is presented in this paper. An abstract format for multi-agent task sequence is defined first. The typical elementary task sequences in multi-agent collaboration applications and the corresponding Petri Nets (PN) models are presented. This correspondence is used as templates to map a task sequence to a synthesized multi-agent PN controller model. We demonstrate the proposed approach using a two-agent controller synthesis problem in a layered manufacturing application.
Role of transfusion in stem cell transplantation: a freedom-from-transfusion (FFT), cost and survival analysis

AbstractBackground: Transfusion of blood products is often necessary for patients undergoing stem cell transplantation (SCT). The need for red cell and platelet transfusion may vary significantly depending on the type of transplantation and underlying disease.Methods: In an attempt to evaluate the need and volume of transfusions in patients undergoing SCT at University of Kansas Medical Center, the authors retrospectively evaluated the transfusion data of all patients who received SCT between 2000 and 2005.Results: A total of 138 (90%) out of 154 patients undergoing autologous SCT and 24 (43%) out of 56 patients with allogeneic SCT exhibited total hematopoietic engraftment and freedom from transfusion (FFT). Time to achieve FFT (median; range) for RBC units for autologous SCT (12; 0–183) was significantly shorter compared with allogeneic SCT (16.5; 0–373). Number of RBC units (median; range) transfused were significantly less in patients undergoing autologous SCT (4; 0–26) compared to patients undergoing ...
Comparative immunogenicity and enhanceability of individual H-2K and H-2D specificities of the murine histocompatibility-2 complex.

The immunogenicity of single, private H-2 specificities has been tested. In most cases, the specificity was known to be confined either to H-2K or to H-2D. This was accomplished by the appropriate choice, as donor and recipient, or parent of the F1 hybrid recipient, of congenic strains differing at H-2 only, and of recombinant haplotypes in donor and/or recipient. By nearly all tests, the H-2K antigen appeared to be a stronger immunogen than the H-2D antigen. Skin grafts with an H-2K difference showed median survival times (MST) of 9.3–14.5 days; for H-2D the values were 13.8–18.6. The difference was also present, though narrowed, for second-set grafts. H-2K grafts regularly engendered a demonstrable cytotoxic antibody response; with H-2D differences the response was absent or very weak. K end cytotoxic titers after multiple immunizations with lymphoid tissues ranged from 1/32 to 1/2,048, D end titers from 0 to 1/128. Hemagglutination titers showed no clear difference. The results of passive enhancement of skin grafts with H-2 alloantibody produced in donor recipient combinations, identical to those used for the skin grafts showed a different pattern. H-2K, despite its greater immunogenic strength was more easily enhanced than H-2D. Prolongation of MST's for H-2K was 2.4–6.7 days, for H-2D grafts, 0.2–1.5 days.
Touch screen devices and the effectiveness of user interface methods

This study was designed to examine how several methods for completing tasks (such as scrolling and zooming) differ when using touch screen devices. The goal of this research is to identify which me...
Economic Theory and Tax and Pension Policies.

Studying and advising about mandatory pension systems while also researching optimal tax theory, with particular attention to the taxation of capital income, brought attention to differences in both analyses and policies, while these two subjects intersect in the common practice of the tax-favouring of retirement savings. I have long been concerned about the implicit methodology used by the profession in going from theoretical analyses to policy advice. In this essay, I touch on all four of these topics - pensions, capital income taxes, tax-favoured retirement savings and methodology. I give particular attention to the pension systems in Australia and New Zealand.
Occult breast cancer: Scintimammography with high-resolution breast-specific gamma camera in women at high risk for breast cancer

PURPOSE: To prospectively evaluate a high-resolution breast-specific gamma camera for depicting occult breast cancer in women at high risk for breast cancer but with normal mammographic and physical examination findings. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Institutional Review Board approval and informed consent were obtained. The study was HIPAA compliant. Ninety-four high-risk women (age range, 36–78 years; mean, 55 years) with normal mammographic (Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System [BI-RADS] 1 or 2) and physical examination findings were evaluated with scintimammography. After injection with 25–30 mCi (925–1110 MBq) of technetium 99m sestamibi, patients were imaged with a high-resolution small-field-of-view breast-specific gamma camera in craniocaudal and mediolateral oblique projections. Scintimammograms were prospectively classified according to focal radiotracer uptake as normal (score of 1), with no focal or diffuse uptake; benign (score of 2), with minimal patchy uptake; probably benign (score of 3), wit...
Diode-based thermal r.m.s. converter with on-chip circuitry fabricated using CMOS technology

Abstract A high-frequency root-mean-square (r.m.s.) converter composed of two matched thermal elements and on-chip circuitry has been fabricated in a foundry CMOS process with post-process micromachining techniques. An anisotropic undercut etch in conjunction with an electrochemical etch stop is used to form the thermal elements of the r.m.s. converter, which are suspended single-crystal silicon regions containing temperature-sensing diodes heated by polysilicon resistors. One of the elements is heated by the a.c. signal, while an integrated continuous-time feedback network maintains a second element at the same temperature. The converter has a packaging-limited — 3 dB bandwidth of 415 MHz, an r.m.s. dynamic range of 53 dB, nonlinearity of 1%, a quiescent power dissipation under 1 mW, and occupies an area of approximately 400 μm × 400 μm. The thermoelements have a thermal resistance of up to 37 000 K W −1 in air. In addition to the r.m.s. converter itself, an improved wet etchant chemistry is presented. Ammonium persulfate, when added to tetramethyl ammonium hydroxide (TMAH) silicon etchant, improves the silicon etch rate and the (100) surface quality. This etch chemistry should be useful for a broad range of CMOS-compatible micromachining applications.
Murine Fig4 is dispensable for muscle development but required for muscle function

Phosphatidylinositol phosphates (PIPs) are low-abundance phospholipids that participate in a range of cellular processes, including cell migration and membrane traffic. PIP levels and subcellular distribution are regulated by a series of lipid kinases and phosphatases. In skeletal muscle, PIPs and their enzymatic regulators serve critically important functions exemplified by mutations of the PIP phosphatase MTM1 in myotubular myopathy (MTM), a severe muscle disease characterized by impaired muscle structure and abnormal excitation–contraction coupling. FIG4 functions as a PIP phosphatase that participates in both the synthesis and breakdown of phosphatidylinositol 3,5-bisphosphate (PI(3,5)P2). Mutation of FIG4 results in a severe neurodegenerative disorder in mice and a progressive peripheral polyneuropathy in humans. The effect of FIG4 mutation on skeletal muscle has yet to be examined. Herein we characterize the impact of FIG4 on skeletal muscle development and function using the spontaneously occurring mouse mutant pale tremor (plt), a mouse line with a loss of function mutation in Fig4. In plt mice, we characterized abnormalities in skeletal muscle, including reduced muscle size and specific force generation. We also uncovered ultrastructural abnormalities and increased programmed cell death. Conversely, we detected no structural or functional abnormalities to suggest impairment of excitation–contraction coupling, a process previously shown to be influenced by PI(3,5)P2 levels. Conditional rescue of Fig4 mutation in neurons prevented overt muscle weakness and the development of obvious muscle abnormalities, suggesting that the changes observed in the plt mice were primarily related to denervation of skeletal muscle. On the basis of the ability of reduced FIG4 levels to rescue aspects of Mtmr2-dependent neuropathy, we evaluated the effect of Fig4 haploinsufficiency on the myopathy of Mtm1-knockout mice. Male mice with a compound Fig4+/−/Mtm1–/Y genotype displayed no improvements in muscle histology, muscle size or overall survival, indicating that FIG4 reduction does not ameliorate the Mtm1-knockout phenotype. Overall, these data indicate that loss of Fig4 impairs skeletal muscle function but does not significantly affect its structural development.
Immunochemical studies on the putative plasmalemmal receptor for 1,25(OH)2D3. I. Chick intestine

Antisera were raised against the NH2-terminus of the putative basal lateral membrane (BLM) receptor for 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3[1,25(OH)2D3; BLM-VDR]. In Western analyses of BLM proteins, antibody...
The place of experience in graduate level nursing education: a time for discussion and debate.

As a recent graduate with a Master of Science degree in nursing, I offer this testimony of the commencement of my career in graduate school. I entered my Master of Science program after seven years of clinical nursing experience. My memory is clear: nervous, anticipatory, and ambitious optimism about how I may fit into the future of our great discipline. Yet, when I entered my first class, I was met with a situation that was unexpected and disappointing. Nearly half of my classmates had no work experience as nurses, and some had not taken their NCLEX certification boards. I thought to myself, “Could this be true at the graduate level?” When I finished my baccalaureate program in 1994, our class in my Master’s program was told to acquire a minimum of two years’ experience in nursing before returning to graduate school. And although that first class in my Master’s program was a good learning experience, we spent the semester in a frustrating battle of discussions between those of us who were experienced nurses versus those of us who were not. This was a resounding theme throughout my Master’s program. A search of the literature reveals dominating discussion over the point of entry into nursing practice, the shortage of nurses and nursing faculty, and the consequent need to provide more options in doctoral preparation to fill the needed nursing roles in our future. Nurses are no longer required to gain experience as a nurse before beginning Master’s level or even Doctoral level education in nursing; no one appears to be discussing this issue. Therefore, I raise the subject myself, asking us all to truly reflect on the question, “Where is the place of clinical
On the nature of serum prolactin in two patients with macroprolactinemia

Objective To further characterize the high molecular weight (MW) forms of prolactin (PRL) present in patients with macroprolactinemia. Design Case reports with laboratory investigations. Setting Academic medical centers. Patients Two patients with macroprolactinemia. Interventions Measurements of PRL concentrations before and after chromatographic separations. Results The majority of serum PRL had an estimated MW of at least 669kd in the first patient and approximately 171kd in the second. During a pregnancy, a new form of PRL (MW 291kd) appeared in the first patient's serum and persisted for at least 3 years. Immunoprecipitation and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis under reducing and denaturing conditions revealed that the largest form of PRL (MW 669kd) was composed mostly of 25kd glycosylated PRL; intermediate forms (171kd and 291kd) were composed of roughly equal portions of 25kd glycosylated PRL and 23kd nonglycosylated PRL, whereas "little" PRL in these patients was composed primarily of 23kd nonglycosylated PRL. Injection of the first patient's serum into rats demonstrated that the human PRL (hPRL) immunoreactivity was cleared from the serum more slowly than the PRL from sera containing predominantly little hPRL; after stimulation with thyrotropin-releasing hormone in the second patient, serum PRL concentrations decayed more slowly than observed in normal subjects. Conclusions Large forms of serum PRL are at least partially glycosylated. These large forms are heterogeneous, both within and among patients. Delayed clearance may account for increased serum PRL concentrations in patients with macroprolactinemia.
Modulation of innate immunity in the tumor microenvironment

A recent report from the Center for Disease Control identified melanoma as being among the highest causes of cancer-related mortalities in the USA. While interventions such as checkpoint blockade have made substantial impact in terms of improving response rates and overall survival, a significant number of patients fail to respond to treatment or become resistant to therapy. A better understanding of the tumor microenvironment in these patients becomes imperative for identifying immune suppressive mechanisms that impact the development of effective anti-tumor immune responses. We have investigated innate immune cells (dendritic cells, NK cells) in the tumor microenvironment (TME) in order to devise effective targeted anticancer immune therapies. We find that matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), secreted from melanoma cells and stromal cells, cleaves IFNAR1 and stimulates TLR-2 on dendritic cells (DC) within the TME. Both these events independently culminate in programing the DCs to promote pro-tumorigenic TH2 T cell differentiation. In addition, we have shown that NK cells become functionally exhausted in melanoma patients. We identified the expression of Tim-3 as one of the factors responsible for NK cell exhaustion and showed that anti-Tim3 antibodies partially reversed this exhaustion. We have initiated local intervention strategies such as intra-tumoral administration of DC activating Poly-ICLC and compared the efficacy of different TLR agonists and melanoma antigens for use as combination tumor vaccine in clinical trials. Such approaches will provide a unique insight into tumor biology and will facilitate in development of highly effective and cell type-specific immune therapies.
Biopharmaceuticals: Application of AUC-SV for Quantitative Analysis of Protein Size Distributions

The major aim of any analytical purity method is to quantify the relative concentration of individual molecular species resolved by the method. During the development of biopharmaceuticals, products in which a heterogeneous distribution of protein molecules serves as the active ingredient, AUC-SV is often applied as a purity method to resolve and quantify size variants in the final product formulation. In this chapter, we briefly discuss the applications of AUC-SV in biopharmaceutical development. One such application is to confirm the accuracy of size exclusion chromatography (SEC) methods during SEC method development, ensuring the SEC methods are fit for purpose for product release and stability testing. In this context, we summarize the application of the AUC-SV method for the measurement of protein size distributions, with particular emphasis on how the method can be tailored to assist in SEC method development. Only when the limitations of AUC-SV are well understood, and mitigated, can the method be used effectively to meet a wide variety of protein product development challenges.
Frontiers in Neuroscience

It is now generally accepted that acute mountain sickness (AMS) is caused by a mild form of high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE). In susceptible individuals AMS may progress to a lethal form of HACE and/or high-altitude pulmonary edema (3). Two hypotheses have been promulgated to account for HACE: the vasogenic edema hypothesis and the cytotoxic edema hypothesis (3,4). Since cerebral energetics are unchanged during AMS-HACE in an experimental sheep model (7), evidence favors the view that HACE is vasogenic in nature, although cytotoxic edema has not been ruled out specifically.
Electronic Cell Volume and ALDH Expression of Hematopoietic Stem Cells Obtained by Apheresis

Small cell volume or diameter (3–7μm) appears to be one of the characteristics that may be used to identify early stem cells. Hematopoietic stem cells may be characterized by the expression of cell surface markers such as CD34, CD117 and CD133. In addition, stem cells such as “SP cells” can be recognized by the efflux of dyes such as Hoechst 33342 and presence of aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH). In prior studies we used the Beckman Coulter® Cell Lab Quanta( ™ ) SC MPL analyzer to determine the electronic cell volume, diameter and marker expression (CD34, CD90, CD117 and CD133) of cells from peripheral blood apheresis (HPC, Apheresis) samples (Shariatmadar et al. Cytometry B, 74B:182–188, 2008; Sharma et al. Cytometry A, 73A:160–167, 2008). In the present study, we used this analyzer to determine cell volume, diameter and marker expression of ALDH positive stem cells from HPC, Apheresis samples of 44 patients with hematologic malignancies mobilized with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor. The mean electronic volume of the ALDH positive cells was 286μm 3 (SD±27) corresponding to a diameter of 8.2μm. The mean percentage of ALDH positive cells analyzed was 0.51% (SD± 0.004). CD34 expression was seen in 0.13% (SD±0.001) of the ALDH positive cells. The mean electronic volume of the ALDH and CD34 positive cells was 270μm 3 (SD± 33) corresponding to a diameter of 8.0μm. CD133, CD117 and CD90 expression was seen in 0.28% (SD± 0.01), 0.17 (SD± 0.05) and 0.04% (SD± 0.03) of the ALDH positive cells. The mean electronic volume of the ALDH positive cells with CD133 expression was 275μm 3 (SD±29) corresponding to a diameter of 8.1μm while that of the ALDH positive cells with CD117 and CD90 expression was 284μm 3 (SD± 32) and 265μm 3 (SD± 35), corresponding to a diameter of 8.15 and 7.9μm. The use of electronic cell volume in conjunction with side scatter might provide a useful method for characterization of stem/progenitor cell populations with specific marker expression. In our study, hematopoietic stem cells expressing ALDH and bearing early stem cell markers were relatively larger than those previously reported. Future studies will aim to characterize the long term repopulating capability of this fraction of stem cells in in-vivo models.
Common-Mode Voltage Cancellation in PWM Motor Drives With Balanced Inverter Topology

This paper proposes a balanced inverter topology for canceling the common-mode (CM) voltage of motor drives, and thus reducing or eliminating the ground leakage current, bearing current, and CM electromagnetic interference. The proposed topology splits one of the switches on each phase-leg of a conventional inverter into two half-voltage rated switches, and creates two complementary sets of balanced three phase output voltages, whose CM voltages cancel each other in the driven motor. The balanced inverter topology does not involve filter components, modification of the modulation strategy, or increase of the total device rating. Theoretical analysis and testing results are presented to verify this concept.
Disruption Avoidance on TFTR

Disruptions on the Tokamak Fusion Test Reactor (TFTR), especially those occurring at high stored energy, result in lost experimental run time because many discharges are required to regain wall conditions necessary for good plasma performance. A variety of disruption types have been observed on TFTR. These include density-limit disruptions, those caused by a high influx of impurities, those occurring during the current rampdown, those resulting from locked modes, and those occurring at high normalized β (β N = β T αβ T /I p ). A combination of operational experience and limiter development has helped to avoid many potential disruptions. However, the experimental goal of high fusion power production engenders the risk of high-β N disruptions. A system to limit β N by reducing the neutral beam power as a preprogrammed β N limit is reached is now in use to help avoid high-β N disruptions. Operational issues of disruption avoidance, the β N feedback system, the limitations and possible improvements of the system are discussed.
Religion, Gendered Authority, and Identity in American Politics

Religious identity serves as a central cleavage in American politics. However, little attention has been granted to how gendered views of authority conveyed in religious doctrine shape political identities and attitudes. Using a nation-wide sample of adult Americans, we demonstrate that gendered notions of divine and human authority exert considerable influence on political thinking. In particular, belief in a masculine God and preferences for traditional gender roles strongly relate to political conservatism. Adherence to gendered notions of authority influences political identity and policy preferences, even when controlling for more conventional indicators of religiosity. Accounting for gendered beliefs about authority also partially explains well-documented gender gaps in American politics, providing insight into women's apparently contradictory tendencies toward both political liberalism and religiosity. The relationships uncovered here, coupled with the continued salience of both gender and religion in contemporary political campaigns, underscore the importance of attending to the gendered dimensions of authority.
Abstract 177: Overexpression of Cardiac Troponin I-Interacting Kinase, a Cardiac-Specific MAPKKK, Promotes Cardiac Dysfunction

Cardiac Troponin I-interacting kinase (TNNI3K) is a cardiac specific kinase whose biological function remains largely unknown. We have recently shown that TNNI3K expression greatly accelerates cardiac dysfunction in mouse models of cardiomyopathy, indicating an important role in modulating disease progression. To further investigate TNNI3K kinase activity in vivo, we have generated transgenic mice expressing both wild-type and kinase-dead versions of the human TNNI3K protein. Importantly, we show that the increased TNNI3K kinase activity induces mouse cardiac hypertrophy, and the kinase activity is required to accelerate disease progression in a left-ventricular pressure overload model of mouse cardiomyopathy. We demonstrate the clinical relevance of these observations by identifying two potential missense mutations near the kinase activation loop of TNNI3K in idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) human patients. Using an in vitro kinase assay and proteomics analysis, we show that TNNI3K is a dual-function kinase with Tyr and Ser/Thr kinase activity. Using antisera to TNNI3K, we show that TNNI3K protein is located at the sarcomere Z disc. These combined data suggest that TNNI3K mediates cell signaling to modulate cardiac response to stress. The essential role of the kinase activity makes TNNI3K a strong potential pharmaceutical target of kinase inhibitors for heart disease.
Models for Investigation of Peptide and Protein Transport across Cultured Mammalian Respiratory Epithelial Barriers

In this chapter, we describe in vitro methods that can be used for the investigation of peptide and protein transport across respiratory epithelial barriers. We begin with the approaches for culture of alveolar epithelial and tracheo(bronchial) epithelial cells, followed by experimental methods to investigate transport and metabolism utilizing the cultured cells. Where appropriate, advantages and disadvantages of the approaches utilized are discussed.
Toxicity of Potassium Chloride Compared to Sodium Chloride for Zebra Mussel Decontamination

AbstractDecontamination of watercraft and/or equipment following exposure to zebra mussels with the use of chemicals is one method of decontamination that has been recommended in the United States by multiple government agencies. The ideal chemical to be used for decontamination would be inexpensive, easily obtained, have no or limited effect on nontarget species, and relatively environmentally friendly. Two chemicals that have been tested are potassium chloride and sodium chloride. The toxicity of each chemical to both adult mussels and veliger larvae was examined. Sodium chloride was less effective at causing mortality than potassium chloride within the exposure periods tested. Adult mussels required an exposure period four times longer to experience complete mortality when exposed to sodium chloride (24 h) at a concentration of 30,000 mg/L compared to potassium chloride (6 h). At a 10,000 mg/L concentration, sodium chloride took eight times longer (96 h) to cause 100% mortality of adult mussels than po...
Chromospheres in Red Giants

Increasing evidence suggests that the mechanism(s) for heating the chromospheres of the coolest red giants may be quite different from those responsible for heating in solar-type stars, but little progress toward a quantitative test of this important idea has been made, both because of the scarcity of suitable observations and the difficulty of creating NLTE model chromospheres. We report here the results of NLTE calculations for 10 “classical” model chromospheres (differing mainly in the column mass density above the temperature minimum) and one “shock” chromosphere for a cool giant star and compare the results to observations of 30 g Her (M6 III), one of the coolest (Teff = 3250 K) SRb (semi-regular) variable stars. Observed chromospheric spectral features include Mg II h & k; C II] UV0.01; Mg I λ2852; Ca II H, K & IRT; Ca I λ4227 & λ6573; Al II] UV1; and Balmer α. The equations of statistical equilibrium and radiative transfer are solved self-consistently for H I, H-, H2, He I, C I, C II, Na I, Mg I, Mg II, Al I, Al II, Ca I, and Ca II with the equivalent two-level-atom technique in a one-dimensional, hydrostatic, plane-parallel atmosphere. Synthetic spectra from the classical models are compared in detail with observations of 30 g Her. However, we find that no single-component classical model in hydrostatic equilibrium is able to reproduce both the Mg II line profiles and the relative strengths of the C II] lines. Some non-classical feature — either departures from hydrostatic equilibrium, shocks, inhomogeneities, or unusual velocity fields — is called for. Surprisingly, however, synthetic spectra from our simple shock model reproduce both of these ionic multiplets, but only if we severely constrain the temperature and thickness of the chromosphere and the position of a shock between the chromosphere and photosphere.
The Great Stench or the fool's argument.

Abstract The eight weeks of the "Great Stench" in London in June-July 1858 had a lasting effect on the city. Today's embankments were planned then, and the huge oval brick sewers of London were designed and constructed as a direct result of the stench. The event occurred before the bacteriological era, when fear of cholera caused by a miasma gripped the city. This article, through quotations from The Times, Punch, and the medical press, traces the various reactions to the stink and explores the reasons why there wasn't more of a public reaction to the plague threat.
An Investigation into Deicer-Induced ASR Distress in Concrete

Recent investigations into premature deterioration of concrete pavements in some airfields in the United States have suggested the possible role of deicing and anti-icing chemicals in inducing alkali-silica reaction (ASR) in concrete. As a result, a comprehensive research study was undertaken to investigate the role of deicing solutions in causing ASR in mortar and concrete test specimens. This paper presents the findings from the research study conducted to evaluate the influence of potassium acetate deicer/anti-icer in causing alkali-silica reaction (ASR) distress in concrete specimens. A test procedure based on modifications to the standard ASTM C 1293 test method was employed in this investigation, wherein the concrete prisms were exposed to deicer solutions during the course of testing. In addition, standard ASTM C 1293 tests were conducted on the same aggregate sources to establish a reference. Expansion of the test specimens was monitored periodically, along with changes in their dynamic modulus of elasticity. pH of the deicer soak solution was also monitored. Visual and scanning electron microscopic (SEM) examinations were conducted at the conclusion of the tests. Findings from this study indicate that potassium acetate deicer solutions caused aggressive ASR in concrete specimens containing reactive aggregates. In addition, a secondary reaction product, primarily composed of a potassium sulfate phase, was observed in prisms containing both reactive and non-reactive aggregates. Additional research is identified to decipher the precise mechanisms involved in this attack.
Muscle Function and Coordination of Amputee Stair Ascent

Ascending stairs is challenging following transtibial amputation due to the loss of the ankle muscles, which are critical to human movement. Efforts to improve stair ascent following amputation are hindered by limited understanding of how prostheses and remaining muscles contribute to stair ascent. This study developed a three-dimensional muscle-actuated forward dynamics simulation of amputee stair ascent to identify contributions of individual muscles and passive prosthesis to the biomechanical subtasks of stair ascent. The prosthesis was found to provide vertical propulsion throughout stair ascent, similar to non-amputee plantarflexors. However, the timing differed considerably. The prosthesis also contributed to braking, similar to non-amputee soleus, but to a greater extent. In contrast, the prosthesis was unable to replicate the functions of non-amputee gastrocnemius which contributes to forward propulsion during the second half of stance and leg swing initiation. To compensate, hamstrings and vasti of the residual leg increased their contributions to forward propulsion during the first and second halves of stance, respectively. The prosthesis also contributed to medial control, consistent with the non-amputee soleus but not gastrocnemius. Therefore, prosthesis designs that provide additional vertical propulsion as well as forward propulsion, lateral control and leg swing initiation at appropriate points in the gait cycle could improve amputee stair ascent. However, because non-amputee soleus and gastrocnemius contribute oppositely to many subtasks, it may be necessary to couple the prosthesis, which functions most similarly to soleus, with targeted rehabilitation programs focused on muscle groups that can compensate for gastrocnemius.
Glucocorticoid Receptor Transactivation Is Required for Glucocorticoid-Induced Ocular Hypertension and Glaucoma

Purpose Glucocorticoid (GC)-induced ocular hypertension (GC-OHT) is a serious side effect of prolonged GC therapy that can lead to glaucoma and permanent vision loss. GCs cause a plethora of changes in the trabecular meshwork (TM), an ocular tissue that regulates intraocular pressure (IOP). GCs act through the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), and the GR regulates transcription both through transactivation and transrepression. Many of the anti-inflammatory properties of GCs are mediated by GR transrepression, while GR transactivation largely accounts for GC metabolic effects and side effects of GC therapy. There is no evidence showing which of the two mechanisms plays a role in GC-OHT. Methods GRdim transgenic mice (which have active transrepression and impaired transactivation) and wild-type (WT) C57BL/6J mice received weekly periocular dexamethasone acetate (DEX-Ac) injections. IOP, outflow facilities, and biochemical changes to the TM were determined. Results GRdim mice did not develop GC-OHT after continued DEX treatment, while WT mice had significantly increased IOP and decreased outflow facilities. Both TM tissue in eyes of DEX-treated GRdim mice and cultured TM cells isolated from GRdim mice had reduced or no change in the expression of fibronectin, myocilin, collagen type I, and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). GRdim mouse TM (MTM) cells also had a significant reduction in DEX-induced cytoskeletal changes, which was clearly seen in WT MTM cells. Conclusions We provide the first evidence for the role of GR transactivation in regulating GC-mediated gene expression in the TM and in the development of GC-OHT. This discovery suggests a novel therapeutic approach for treating ocular inflammation without causing GC-OHT and glaucoma.
Integrating Middle School Curriculum: A Two-Tiered Development Model.

AbstractThis action research case study describes a two-tiered model for integrating middle school curriculum. The model uses two methods of curriculum integration: parallel and integrated thematic. In the parallel model, content area instructors teach their individual content separately integrating the subject matter whenever there is a logical connection between disciplines. Periodic integrated thematic units bring together the full range of the school's curriculum and allow students the opportunity to engage in deliberate, in depth integration. The combining of two integration options allows students to address content areas within a scope and sequence of skill development and to be exposed to key ideas and principles across disciplines. A year-long theme provides the curriculum focus for the study.