cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
SU‐E‐J‐39: Effect of Jaw Size in MVCT On Image Quality and Dose in Helical Tomotherapy

Purpose: The jaw size for the TomoTherapy Hi‐Art II (TomoTherapy Inc., Madison, WI) was reduced from 4 mm (J4) to 1 mm (J1) to improve the longitudinal resolution in megavoltage computed tomography (MVCT) images. This study evaluated the effect of jaw size on the image quality and dose, as well as the dose delivered to the lens of the eye. Methods: MVCT image quality (image noise, uniformity, contrast linearity, high‐contrast resolution, and full width at half‐maximum) and multiple scan average dose (MSAD) were measured at different jaw sizes. A head phantom and photoluminescence glass dosimeters (PLDs) were used to measure the exposed lens dose (cGy). Different MVCT scan modes (pitch = 1, 2, and 3) and scan lengths (108 mm, 156 mm, and 204 mm) were applied in the MSAD and PLDs measurements. Results: The change in jaw size from J4 to J1 produced no change or only a slight improvement in image noise, uniformity, contrast linearity, and high‐contrast resolution. However, the full‐width at half‐maximum reduced from approximately 6.7 at J4 to 4.1 mm at J1, which represents an enhancement in the longitudinal resolution. The MSAD at the center point changed from approximately 0.69∼2.32 cGy (peripheral: 0.83∼2.49 cGy) at J4 to 0.85∼2.81 cGy (peripheral: 1.05∼2.86 cGy) at J1. The measured lens dose increased from 0.92∼3.36 cGy at J4 to 1.06∼3.91 cGy at J1. Conclusion: The change in jaw size can be expected to accelerate treatment planning and improve image registration accuracy. An additional dose of approximately 3.86 cGy, 1.92 cGy, and 1.22 cGy was delivered at a pitch of 1, 2, and 3, respectively, per fraction in the head and neck treatment plans. Therefore, allowance for an approximately 15% increase in imaging dose over that with J4 should be provided with J1. This research was supported by Leading Foreign Research Institute Recruitment Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) funded by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MEST) (Grant No. 2009‐00420) and program of Basic Atomic Energy Research Institute (BAERI) which is a part of the Nuclear R and D programs (No. 2012000486) funded by the MEST.
Linguistics and Natural Logic

Evidence is presented to show that the role of a generative grammar of a natural language is not merely to generate the grammatical sentences of that language, but also to relate them to their logical forms. The notion of logical form is to be made sense of in terms a ‘natural logic’, a logical for natural language, whose goals are to express all concepts capable of being expressed in natural language, to characterize all the valid inferences that can be made in natural language, and to mesh with adequate linguistic descriptions of all natural languages. The latter requirement imposes empirical linguistic constraints on natural logic. A number of examples are discussed.
Corrigendum: Coping with brief periods of food restriction: mindfulness matters.

There is a minor error in the results section of the aforementioned publication. The current text on page 11, lines 340–344 reads: Conversely, as shown in Figure 3, the low mindful group had the greatest global efficiency in the auditory and insular cortices. An ROI analysis revealed that global efficiency in the insula/auditory cortex was significantly greater in the Low MAAS group compared to the High MAAS group for BOOST® (P = 0.01) and NO BOOST® (p = 0.02) conditions. It should read as follows: Conversely, as shown in Figure 3, the low mindful group had greater clustering of globally efficient nodes in the auditory and insular cortices. However, an ROI analysis revealed that the average global efficiency in the insula/auditory cortex was significantly greater in the High MAAS group compared to the Low MAAS group for both the BOOST® (p = 0.01) and NO BOOST® (p = 0.02) conditions. Thus, while the high global efficiency nodes were more densely clustered in the insula/auditory cortex for the Low MAAS group (Figure 3), the average global efficiency of those nodes was on average lower than the High MAAS group (Table 2).
Sweezyian Financial Instability Hypothesis—Monopoly Capital, Inflation, Financialization, Inequality and Endless Stagnation

From the standpoint of monopoly capital theory, this paper argues that oligopolistic capitalism is internally unstable. The instability manifests from the historical evolution of finance within oligopolistic capitalism. The historical rise of oligopolistic capitalism has given rise to price fluctuations; (non-financial) firms have increasingly relied on financial firms to guarantee prices. At the level of the individual firm, this increase in future markets has reduced risk and tended to increase production. However, at the macro-economic level the increase in financial speculation has generated greater instability and inequality. This paper theorizes this macro-economic instability and inequality, along with the increase in the rate of exploitation by means of “financial expropriation.”
Lactose malabsorption and steatorrhea.

Twenty-seven patients with an isolated lactase deficienty (ILD) had fecal fat studies on 45 occasions, and 9 individuals had steatorrhea at some level of oral lactose intake. The degree of steatorrhea in the individual patient was related to the amount of lactose ingested. Analysis of the stool triglycerides indicated that the steatorrhea was due to a postlipolytic rather than a lipolytic defect. Steatorrhea was also not related to the presence of diarrhea, as calculated from stool wet-weight, nor was diarrhea related to the amount of dietary lactose ingested. No correlation was found between the presence of an abnormal D-xylose excretion test and lactose-induced steatorrhea. From our data and those in the literature, it would appear that individuals with an ILD who have had gastric surgery or small intestinal resections, or have mucosal abnormalities, are most inclined to develop lactose-induced steatorrhea.
Effects of experimental myocardial infarction on the ST segment response to tachycardia

Prior studies have shown that tachycardia results in ST segment depression in dogs with chronic, gradual coronary occlusion. This response was compared with that produced by acute, total occlusion of the left anterior descending artery. Ten dogs served as controls; in another 10 dogs, an ameroid constrictor was implanted about the left anterior descending artery. This artery was acutely ligated in a third set of 10 animals, and in a final set of 10, the distal left anterior descending coronary vasculature was embolized by latex injection. Tachycardia was produced by atrial pacing from rates of 90 to 250 beats/min using implanted atrial electrodes. Electrocardiographic signals registered from 84 torso electrodes were used to construct body surface isopotential maps during the ST segment. In normal dogs, pacing increased repolarization potentials without shifts in spatial features. New and abnormal anterior negativity, correlating with significant ST depression, appeared at rates of 170 beats/min or faster in dogs with ameroid constriction. However, in both groups with acute occlusion that produced transmural myocardial infarction, tachycardia resulted in increases in anterior ST elevation and reciprocal ST depression. Specific findings demonstrated the lead dependency of the response to tachycardia and the greater than normal increase in potential magnitudes after infarction than in control cases. The similarity of the response with acute occlusion and with embolization suggested that the response to tachycardia after infarction was not dependent on coronary collateral function but may represent a direct electrophysiologic effect of rate. Thus, these acute occlusion models simulate exerciseinduced ST segment elevation as it may be seen clinically.
Role of p12CDK2-AP1 in Transforming Growth Factor-β1-Mediated Growth Suppression

p12(CDK2-AP1) (p12) is a growth suppressor isolated from normal keratinocytes. Ectopic expression of p12 in squamous carcinoma cells reversed the malignant phenotype of these cells, in part due an ability of p12 to bind to both DNA polymerase alpha/primase and to cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2), thereby inhibiting their activities. We report in this article that in normal epithelial cells, transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-beta1) induces p12 expression transcriptionally, which, in turn, mediates the growth inhibitory activity of TGF-beta1. We created inducible p12 antisense HaCaT cell lines [ip12 (-) HaCaT] and showed that selective reduction of cellular p12 resulted in an increase in: (a) CDK2-associated kinase activity; (b) protein retinoblastoma (pRB) phosphorylation; and (c) [(3)H]thymidine incorporation, and partially reversed TGF-beta1-mediated inhibition of CDK2 kinase activity, pRB phosphorylation, and cell proliferation. Furthermore, we generated p12-deficient mouse oral keratinocytes (MOK(p12-/-)) and compared their growth characteristics and response to TGF-beta1 with that of wild-type mouse oral keratinocytes (MOK(WT)). Under normal culture conditions, the number of MOK(p12-/-) in S phase is 2-fold greater than that of MOK(WT). Concomitantly, fewer cells are in G(2) phase in MOK(p12-/-) than that in MOK(WT). Moreover, response to TGF-beta1-mediated growth suppression is compromised in MOK(p12-/-) cells. Mechanistic studies showed that MOK(p12-/-) have increased CDK2 activity and reduced sensitivity to inhibition by TGF-beta1. Collectively our data suggest that p12 plays a role in TGF-beta1-mediated growth suppression by modulating CDK2 activities and pRB phosphorylation.
Composition and organization of active centromere sequences in complex genomes

Centromeres are sites of chromosomal spindle attachment during mitosis and meiosis. While the sequence basis for centromere identity remains a subject of considerable debate, one approach is to examine the genomic organization at these active sites that are correlated with epigenetic marks of centromere function. We have developed an approach to characterize both satellite and non-satellite centromeric sequences that are missing from current assemblies in complex genomes, using the dog genome as an example. Combining this genomic reference with an epigenetic dataset corresponding to sequences associated with the histone H3 variant centromere protein A (CENP-A), we identify active satellite sequence domains that appear to be both functionally and spatially distinct within the overall definition of satellite families. These findings establish a genomic and epigenetic foundation for exploring the functional role of centromeric sequences in the previously sequenced dog genome and provide a model for similar studies within the context of less-characterized genomes.
Redundant Function of Plasmacytoid and Conventional Dendritic Cells Is Required To Survive a Natural Virus Infection.

ABSTRACT Viruses that spread systemically from a peripheral site of infection cause morbidity and mortality in the human population. Innate myeloid cells, including monocytes, macrophages, monocyte-derived dendritic cells (mo-DC), and dendritic cells (DC), respond early during viral infection to control viral replication, reducing virus spread from the peripheral site. Ectromelia virus (ECTV), an orthopoxvirus that naturally infects the mouse, spreads systemically from the peripheral site of infection and results in death of susceptible mice. While phagocytic cells have a requisite role in the response to ECTV, the requirement for individual myeloid cell populations during acute immune responses to peripheral viral infection is unclear. In this study, a variety of myeloid-specific depletion methods were used to dissect the roles of individual myeloid cell subsets in the survival of ECTV infection. We showed that DC are the primary producers of type I interferons (T1-IFN), requisite cytokines for survival, following ECTV infection. DC, but not macrophages, monocytes, or granulocytes, were required for control of the virus and survival of mice following ECTV infection. Depletion of either plasmacytoid DC (pDC) alone or the lymphoid-resident DC subset (CD8α + DC) alone did not confer lethal susceptibility to ECTV. However, the function of at least one of the pDC or CD8α + DC subsets is required for survival of ECTV infection, as mice depleted of both populations were susceptible to ECTV challenge. The presence of at least one of these DC subsets is sufficient for cytokine production that reduces ECTV replication and virus spread, facilitating survival following infection. IMPORTANCE Prior to the eradication of variola virus, the orthopoxvirus that causes smallpox, one-third of infected people succumbed to the disease. Following successful eradication of smallpox, vaccination rates with the smallpox vaccine have significantly dropped. There is now an increasing incidence of zoonotic orthopoxvirus infections for which there are no effective treatments. Moreover, the safety of the smallpox vaccine is of great concern, as complications may arise, resulting in morbidity. Like many viruses that cause significant human diseases, orthopoxviruses spread from a peripheral site of infection to become systemic. This study elucidates the early requirement for innate immune cells in controlling a peripheral infection with ECTV, the causative agent of mousepox. We report that there is redundancy in the function of two innate immune cell subsets in controlling virus spread early during infection. The viral control mediated by these cell subsets presents a potential target for therapies and rational vaccine design.
Using stable isotopes to assess dietary changes of American black bears from 1980 to 2001

We measured stable carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios in 117 hair samples from American black bears (Ursus americanus) in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, during 1980–2001 from live-trapped bears. We also collected hair from bears with known diets to compare with the wild bears. We hypothesized that biological factors (age, mass, and sex), food availability (hard mast and wild hogs (Sus scrofa)), and nuisance status would influence food selection by black bears and changes in their feeding history would be measureable using stable isotopes. We developed a set of a priori models using nine variables to examine changes in black bear stable isotope values. We found no support for changes in δ13C values associated with any of the nine variables we analyzed. Bears had enriched 15N in years with low white oak mast production and depleted 15N when white oak mast was abundant. Subadults had enriched 15N compared with adults and older adults. Variation in δ15N increased from 1980–1991 to 1992–2000 w...
The Frequency‐Dependent Effects of Verapamil on Antegrade Refractory Periods and Conduction in the Atrioventricular Node in Man

Frequency-Dependent Effects of Verapamil. Introduction: The purpose of this study was to examine the frequency-dependent effects of verapamil on refractoriness and development of conduction block in the human atrioventricular (AV) node. Methods and Results: To more closely simulate conditions thai would be found when the drug is used clinically, the drug was assessed in the absence of autonomic blockade. Antegrade refractory periods were determined in nine patients before and during the administration of verapamil by constant intravenous infusion. In addition, continuous recordings were made during 30-second sequences of atrial pacing at a long cycle length alternating with sequences at shorter pacing cycle lengths. Mean verapamil levels were constant throughout the study and averaged 111.6 ± 70.7 ng/mL. In the majority of patients, refractoriness in the atrium prevented determination of the effective refractory period of the AV node in the control state. Therefore, although the effective refractory period of the AV node lengthened with decrease in pacing cycle length in the presence of verapamil, the relative contribution of the change in cycle length itself compared to the effect of verapamil could not be determined. A frequency- and time-dependent change in A-H interval was found with verapamil during atrial pacing. Kinetic analysis of drug effect on AV nodal function was possible in only three patients; in these three patients the mean time constant for onset of block was 2.9 seconds (range 1.9–4.0 sec). In one patient at a pacing cycle length that did not result in second-degree AV block, transient periods of alternation between short and long A-H intervals occurred in the presence of verapamil. Conclusion: Verapamil causes frequency-dependent block of conduction through the AV node. Since changes in autonomic tone will vary from patient to patient, the actual magnitude of the effects of verapamil will vary as well. This may account for some of the interpatient variability seen with clinical use of this drug, despite comparable blood levels. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 3, pp. 21–33, February 1992)
Induced chemical defenses in invasive plants: a case study with Cynoglossum officinale L.

The ‘evolution of increased competitive ability’ (EICA) hypothesis is an extension of optimal defense theory and predicts that reduced pressure from insect herbivores in the introduced range results in evolution of reduced defenses in invading plant populations, allowing greater allocation of resources to competitive traits such as growth rate and reproduction. The EICA hypothesis considered levels of defensive chemistry to be fixed within a particular genotype. In this paper, we propose that if herbivory is reduced in the introduced range, but chemical defenses are inducible in response to herbivory, evolution of reduced defenses and any associated increase competitive ability should not occur. Rather, mean induced and constitutive levels of induced defenses should be similar in introduced and native ranges, but the variance about mean induced levels should be greater in the introduced range. This is predicted because induced levels will occur less frequently in the introduced range where herbivory is reduced, thereby insulating these levels from the stabilizing selection expected in the native range where induced levels occur more frequently. We conducted a preliminary study to examine this by comparing constitutive and induced concentrations of total pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) from native (European) and introduced (western North America) populations of Cynoglossum officinale L. The mean constitutive and induced concentrations of PAs did not differ between continents, but the variability of the induced concentrations was significantly greater for plants from the introduced range. Although our study with C. officinale is provisional due to a small sample size, it supports our predictions for evolution of inducible defenses in introduced ranges where herbivore pressure is reduced. Most chemical defenses in plants have been found to be inducible, so similar patterns may occur widely. If so, this weakens the generality of EICA’s predictions concerning chemical defenses. The effects of inducible defenses should be considered in cross-continent comparisons of other invasive plant species.
On the General Theory of Integration

Riemann was the first to consider the theory of integration of non-continuous functions. As is well known, his definition of the integral of a function between the limits a and b is as follows:— Divide the segment ( a, b ) into any finite number of intervals, each less, say, than a positive quantity, or norm d ; take the product of each such interval by the value of the function at any point of that interval, and form the sum of all these products; if this sum has a limit, when d is indefinitely diminished which is independent of the mode of division into intervals, and of the choice of the points in those intervals at which the values of the function are considered, this limit is called the integral of the function from a to b . The most convenient mode, however, of defining a Riemann (that is an ordinary) integral of a function, is due to Darboux; it is based on the introduction of upper and lower integrals (integrale par exces, par defaut: oberes, unteres Integral). The definitions of these are as follows:— It may be shown that, if the interval ( a, b ) be divided as before, and the sum of the products taken as before, but with this difference, that instead of the value of the function at an arbitrary point of the part, the upper (lower) limit of the values of the function in the part be taken and multiplied by the length of the corresponding part, these summations have, whatever he the type of function, each of them a definite limit, independent of the mode of division and the mode in which d approaches the value zero. This limit is called the upper (lower) integral of the function. In the special case in which these two limits agree, the common value is called the integral the function .
“Mom, I’m going to be an INPATIENT doctor…” (A Graduating PHM Fellow’s Musings on the Past, Present, and Future)

> “You know no one knows what that means, right?” These were the words my wife told me after I was accepted to a pediatric hospital medicine fellowship and was spreading the word to family and friends. I was baffled, “What do you mean?” I asked her. “I mean, no one knows what that means… inpatient doctor. You keep telling my parents that, but they have no clue what that means.” I looked at her and said, “Really?” After all the conversations we’ve had on the phone, through medical school, through residency, at family events, surely my closest family members had heard me use this term before and knew what it meant. “No, they don’t; I didn’t even know until fairly recently, and that’s only because you’ve been talking about it so much.” After some more discussion, turned out my own parents didn’t really seem to get it …
Fentanyl-induced neurotoxicity and paradoxic pain.

Abstract A patient with pain associated with metastatic leiomyosarcoma received escalating doses of opioids. Upon discontinuation of intravenous morphine, transdermal fentanyl was initiated, and after several days, the dose was increased to 200μg/hour for persistent, severe pain. The patient became somnolent, and further dose adjustments and route change were carried out. She then exhibited severe allodynia, myoclonus, and delirium thereafter fentanyl was stopped. All symptoms resolved with discontinuation of fentanyl and subsequent introduction of a weak opioid. Pain was well controlled. Gradually increasing standard doses of fentanyl may lead to severe neurotoxicity, which may respond to opioid discontinuation and/or rotation. Vigilant scrutiny of all possible causes of apparent analgesic failure followed by consideration of opioid reduction and rotation is warranted in cases of neurotoxicity accompanying opioid treatment.
A Shallow-Water Model of the Diurnal Dryline

This study explores the diurnal variation in the movement and structure of the dryline using a one-dimensional shallow-water model. The model is adapted to test some common theories of dryline motion including the diurnal variation in surface friction, static stability, inversion erosion, and momentum mixing aloft. These mechanisms of diurnal variation are first studied individually and then in unison. A diurnal variation in the surface friction produces a model dryline that moves westward during the day (in disagreement with observations) and has a southerly wind maximum near midnight. A diurnal variation in the static stability produces a model dryline that steepens in slope and moves eastward during the day and then surges westward at night with a southerly wind maximum 6 to 9 h after the minimum stability. Inversion erosion during the day produces a nearly vertical model dry front that moves eastward during the day with surface southwesterlies. At sunset the model dryline surges westward with a southerly wind maximum before midnight. A diurnal variation of the momentum mixing aloft has no significant effect on the model dryline. Results show that the combined case with a diurnal variation of surface friction, inversion erosion, and static stability with terrain most accurately describes the observed dryline system. The westward surge depicted in the model is compared to the flow evolution of the corresponding dam-break problem for a rotating fluid.
A Simulation Study of Relative Efficiency and Bias in the Nested Case-Control Study Design.

Abstract: Purpose: The nested case–control study design, in which a fixed number of controls arematchedtoeachcase,isoftenusedtoanalyzeexposure–response associations within a cohort. It hasbecome common practice to sample four or five controls per case; however, previous research hasshown that in certain instances, significant gains in relative efficiency can be realized when morecontrols are matched to each case. This study expanded upon this and investigated the effect of (i) thenumber of cases, (ii) the strength of the exposure–response, and (iii) the skewness of the exposuredistribution on the bias and relative efficiency of the conditional likelihood estimator from a nestedcase–control study. Methods: Cohorts were simulated and analyzed using conditional logistic regres-sion. Results: The relative efficiency decreased and bias away from the null increased, as the trueexposure–response parameter increased and the skewness of the exposure distribution of the risk-setsincreased. This became more pronounced when the number of cases in the cohort was small.Conclusions: Gains in relative efficiency and a reduction in bias can be realized by sampling morethan four or five controls per case generally used, especially when there are few cases, a strongexposure–response relation, and a skewed exposure variable.Keywords: nested case–control studies, simulation, efficiency, bias, matched case–control studies
N-(4-Hydroxyphenyl)retinamide induced differentiation with repression of telomerase and cell cycle to increase interferon-γ sensitivity for apoptosis in human glioblastoma cells☆

Glioblastoma is the most malignant and prevalent brain tumor in humans. It is composed of heterogenic abnormal astroglial cells that avoid differentiation, maintain proliferation, and reluctant to apoptosis. N-(4-Hydroxyphenyl) retinamide (4-HPR) induced astrocytic differentiation and increased sensitivity to interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) for apoptosis in human glioblastoma A172, LN18, and SNB19 cells. Combination of 4-HPR and IFN-γ significantly inhibited human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT), cyclin dependent kinase 2 (CDK2), and survivin to upregulate caspase-8, caspase-9, and caspase-3 for increasing apoptosis in all glioblastoma cell lines. Hence, combination of 4-HPR and IFN-γ should be considered for controlling growth of different human glioblastoma cells.
Atmospheric CO2 concentration, N availability, and water status affect patterns of ergastic substance deposition in longleaf pine (Pinus palustris Mill.) foliage

Leaf chemistry alterations due to increasing atmospheric CO2 will reflect plant physiological changes and impact ecosystem function. Longleaf pine was grown for 20 months at two levels of atmospheric CO2 (720 and 365 μmol mol–1), two levels of soil N (4 g m–2 year–1 and 40 g m–2 year–1), and two soil moisture levels (– 0.5 and – 1.5 MPa) in open top chambers. After 20 months of exposure, needles were collected and ergastic substances including starch grains and polyphenols were assessed using light microscopy, and calcium oxalate crystals were assessed using light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. Polyphenol content was also determined using the Folin-Denis assay and condensed tannins were estimated by precipitation with protein. Evaluation of phenolic content histochemically was compared to results obtained using the Folin-Denis assay. Total leaf polyphenol and condensed tannin content were increased by main effects of elevated CO2, low soil N and well-watered conditions. Elevated CO2 and low soil N decreased crystal deposition within needle phloem. Elevated CO2 had no effect on the percentage of cells within the mesophyll, endodermis, or transfusion tissue which contained visible starch inclusions. With respect to starch accumulation in response to N stress, mesophyll > endodermis > transfusion tissue. The opposite was true in the case of starch accumulation in response to main effects of water stress: mesophyll < endodermis < transfusion tissue. These results indicate that N and water conditions significantly affect deposition of leaf ergastic substances in longleaf pine, and that normal variability in leaf tissue quality resulting from gradients in soil resources will be magnified under conditions of elevated CO2.
An attempt to produce systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis by crude desoxyribosenucleic acid and joint antigens.

Albino rabbits and dogs received injections of heterologous, homologous and autologous antigens both with and without Freund adjuvant. The animals were studied as long as 17 months. Thirteen rabbits received crude calf thymus. Four rabbits were given homologous bone and joint suspension. Three dogs were injected with saline emulsions of their own tail bone and cartilage. There was no clinical or laboratory evidence of anti-desoxyribosenucleic acid antibodies, systemic lupus erythematosus or rheumatoid arthritis. Conilios albin e canes recipeva injectiones de antigenos heterologe, homologe, e autologe con e sin adjuvante Freund. Le animates esseva studiate durante periodos usque a 17 menses. Dece-tres conilios recipeva crude thymo de vitello. Quatro conilios recipeva homologe suspension de osso e articulation. Tres canes recipeva emulsiones salin preparate ab lor proprie osso e cartilagine caudal. Nulle evidentia clinic o laboratorial esseva trovate del presentia de anticorpore anti acido disoxyribonucleic, de systemic lupo erythematose, o de arthritis rheumatoide.
Genetic expression in pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells predicts metastatic potential and response to oxidative stress

Abstract Of all patients receiving a potentially curative pancreaticoduodenectomy for pancreatic adenocarcinoma, 70% will go on to develop liver metastases as their primary site of recurrence. All of these patients will then die a cancer-related death. Hematogenous pancreatic tumor metastasis to the liver is a highly selective process that occurs through non-random mechanistic steps including vascular invasion, embolization, sinusoidal arrest, extravasation into the parenchyma, and proliferation. Multiple mechanisms lead to the destruction of tumor cells during hematogenous metastasis. These mechanisms include mechanical shear stress after entrapment in the sinusoid and immunologic mechanisms such as the acute inflammatory response of the sinusoidal endothelial cells (SEC). SEC produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) in response to antigen stimulation causing oxidative stress to the tumor cells, leading to cell death. Tumor cells with inherent abilities to resist oxidative stress should produce metastatic disease more effectively. In our laboratory, multiple pancreatic tumor cell lines, including MiaPaCa-2 (Mia) and Panc-1, are utilized to produce orthotopic pancreatic adenocarcinoma xenografts in mice. Orthotopic Mia tumors produce metastatic disease in more than 80% of mice. In contrast, Panc-1 rarely produces metastases (less than 20%). We hypothesize the phenotypic differences noted between Panc-1 and Mia tumor metastases will be recapitulated through high-density genetic expression array analysis and through in vitro studies of these cells when exposed to oxidative stress. Evaluation of Mia and Panc-1 tumor cells using high-density gene expression array analysis revealed significant differences. Mia has a more than 5-fold higher expression of the free-radical scavenger Glutathione (GSH), which has been linked by prior experiments to resistance to oxidative stress. There is also a 3.6-fold higher expression of superoxide dismutase (SO), an enzyme that reacts with superoxide radicals and converts them into less noxious molecules. To evaluate the functional nature of these differences, Panc-1 and Mia cells were subjected to oxidative stress in vitro using hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Using an MTT assay, cell proliferation and survival was compared between Mia and Panc-1 and non-stressed controls. Mia had only a 20% decrease in cell number when compared to control. Interestingly, Panc-1 cells in the same H2O2 concentration had a more than 70% reduction in the number of cells. In conclusion, the release of reactive oxygen species from sinusoidal endothelial cells plays an important role in the prevention of hepatic tumor metastasis formation. Characteristics at the cellular level imparting inherent resistance to oxidative stress lead to significant differences in metastatic potential. Manipulation of this system might therefore lead to novel methods of treatment for an otherwise recalcitrant disease.
Modeling revealed and stated en-route travel response to advanced traveler information systems

Advanced traveler information systems (ATISs) are being developed to provide travelers with real-time information about traffic conditions. To evaluate the benefits of ATIS products and services, questions concerning the potential market, use, and travel response must be addressed. The present focus is on the en-route travel response to ATISs. The main objective is to explore how travelers deal with unexpected congestion and how they might respond to qualitative, quantitative, prescriptive, and predictive information. Data on travelers' route-switching decisions were obtained through a survey of California Bay Area automobile commuters. The effects of various factors, such as sources of congestion information (radio traffic reports versus observation), trip characteristics, and route attributes on traveler response to unexpected congestion, were investigated. Future response to ATIS technologies was explored by using stated preferences, that is, hypothetical ATIS scenarios. A combined reported and stated preference model of traveler response was developed. The results indicate that expected delays on the usual route, travel time on alternative routes, perceived congestion level on alternative routes, and information sources are important determinants of travel decision changes in response to unexpected delays. The modeling methodology identifies the effects of experience and behavioral inertia on choices and captures inherent biases in the stated preference responses. Overall, travelers are more likely to respond to specific quantitative delay information.
A microfluidic approach for investigating the temperature dependence of biomolecular activity with single-molecule resolution†

We present a microfluidic approach for single-molecule studies of the temperature-dependent behavior of biomolecules, using a platform that combines microfluidic sample handling, on-chip temperature control, and total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy of surface-immobilized biomolecules. With efficient, rapid, and uniform heating by microheaters and in situ temperature measurements within a microfluidic flowcell by micro temperature sensors, closed-loop, accurate temperature control is achieved. To demonstrate its utility, the temperature-controlled microfluidic flowcell is coupled to a prism-based TIRF microscope and is used to investigate the temperature-dependence of ribosome and transfer RNA (tRNA) structural dynamics that are required for the rapid and precise translocation of tRNAs through the ribosome during protein synthesis. Our studies reveal that the previously characterized, thermally activated transitions between two global conformational states of the pre-translocation (PRE) ribosomal complex persist at physiological temperature. In addition, the temperature-dependence of the rates of transition between these two global conformational states of the PRE complex reveal well-defined, measurable, and disproportionate effects, providing a robust experimental framework for investigating the thermodynamic activation parameters that underlie transitions across these barriers.
Vacuum deposition of iridium on large astronomical mirrors for use in the far UV

An iridium coating has been deposited by electron-beam evaporation on a 0.91-m mirror which serves as the telescope primary of a sounding rocket instrument for far-UV spectrometry. The evaporation was carried out by applying 8 kV at 400 mA to the electron gun. Zone refined Ir of 99.99% purity was used, and the electron beam was electromagnetically swept over the surface of the evaporant. Under these conditions, deposition rates of 0.55 A/sec were achieved. The reflectance distribution achieved at a wavelength of 584 A was extremely uniform; the mean reflectance was 21.2% with a standard deviation of only 0.3%. This represents a substantial improvement over Al + MgF2 and Al + LiF coatings for applications involving multiple reflections and weak signals, as might be expected in a high-resolution spectrograph studying distant celestial objects.
CARE IV Series: State of Knowledge, Practice, and Translation in Interdisciplinary Arthritis Research and Care

In the Bone and Joint Decade,1 health care professionals, professional organizations, and advocacy groups across the globe are working together to enhance health-related quality of life for people with musculoskeletal disorders. As part of that effort, PTJ is publishing articles from the CARE IV Conference held in Leeds, England, in September 2006. Established in 2002 by pioneers in arthritis care and research as a vehicle to stimulate and support interdisciplinary initiatives, the CARE Conferences foster international collaboration and support for novice and seasoned clinicians, researchers, and stakeholders in arthritis and engage consumers of arthritis care in the development, dissemination, and implementation of clinical research. Each conference has focused on different themes:
Influences of Temporal Fluctuation on Infant Attention

We examined infants� attention to sound sequences as a function of the regularity of timing and the relative familiarity of the sequences (first five trials and last five trials). Infants� attention to the regular and irregular sequences was assessed by a means of a preferential looking (listening) procedure. Infants 6�8 months of age listened longer to the regular sound sequences, but only during the last five trials. Infants 9�11 months of age did not show evidence of differential listening on the basis of sequence regularity, but their attention waned from earlier to later trials.
Does taking a computer application course correlate with better grades in other general education courses

Over the past few years, some Universities and Colleges in Utah have been removing computer application courses from their degree requirements. Some of the reasons for this may include the perception that students have grown up with computers and thus already know the material, or that computer application courses are something students can master on their own without formal instruction. This paper explores some of these issues using data derived from students at Southern Utah University. It shows that taking a computer application course correlates with improved student performance in two related General Education courses.
The Unity of Reason: Pure Reason as Practical Reason in Kant's Early Conception of the Transcendental Dialectic

Understanding provides one form of unity in our experience?let us say, at least for the sake of illustration, that form of unity constituted by the capacity to assign any given experiences a uniquely determined place relative to any other given experiences in the ideal chronology of our ex perience as a whole. But the unity of experience does not, as Kant sees things, exhaust the forms of unity among our representations which we must seek. In addition to the unity of experience sought by understanding, Kant suggests, the faculty of reason aims at "the unity of reason" (A 302/B 359).1 But what might Kant mean by the unity of reason? Two ways to in terpret this phrase readily come to mind. First, we might take it to imply that reason has a single domain of application: there is only one species of pure reason. Second, we might take it to connote the uniqueness of the way in which pure reason functions or the product it aims to yield: pure reason aims to introduce a single special sort of unity into whatever it is to which it is appropriately applied. Neither of these propositions would initially appear to capture Kant's conception of pure reason. First, Kant seems to suppose, at least in the Critique of Pure Reason, that pure reason can be both theoretical and prac tical; while there must obviously be some connection between theoretical and practical reason, pure reason apparently cannot be described as having a unique domain of application. Second, Kant in fact seems to ascribe two different products to pure reason, not just one, or to see it as functioning in two distinguishable ways. Some pages after introducing the phrase "unity of reason" in the Critique of Pure Reason, Kant says that pure reason can "serve the understanding as a canon for its extended and harmonious [ausgebreiteten und einhelligen] employment, by means of which the understanding does not, to be sure, come to know any object beyond what it would know according to its own concepts, but is led better and further in this knowledge" (A 329/B 385). In a note written a few years before the publication of the Critique, Kant wrote that "Reason serves to give necessi
Ring-Opening and Oxidation Pathways of Furanic Oxygenates on Oxygen-Precovered Pd(111)

The surface reactivity of furan, furfural, and furfuryl alcohol on oxygen-precovered Pd(111) (O/Pd(111)) was studied via temperature-programmed desorption (TPD) and high-resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy (HREELS) to understand the oxidation processes of more complex alcohols and aldehydes. The primary reaction pathway explored was furfuryl alcohol dehydrogenation to furfural, followed by decarbonylation to furan and subsequent ring opening of furan through O–Cα scission; however, furfuryl alcohol and furfural also underwent other parallel reactions. At high coverages, deoxygenation of furfuryl alcohol to methylfuran was observed simultaneously with furfural production near 320 K, possibly through a disproportionation reaction of two alcohol adsorbates. Observation of furfural as a reaction product at this temperature was related to an increased prevalence of a weakly bound η1(O) aldehyde state near 250 K on O/Pd(111) as compared to clean Pd(111). Furfural also reacted with surface O to produce ...
Metabolic and Endocrine Disorders and Exercise

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses role of exercise in relation to endocrine and metabolic disorders. The influence of exercise on body fuel metabolism extends to the postexercise recovery period. Increased uptake of glucose by muscle occurs during recovery as a means of repleting muscle glycogen stores. This augmentation in glucose uptake occurs in the face of low plasma insulin levels indicating that the postexercise recovery period—particularly after exhaustive work—is characterized by enhanced insulin sensitivity. The effects of exercise on blood glucose homeostasis in the insulin-treated diabetic thus persist into the recovery period. Physical training also alters a variety of aspects of endocrine function in the resting state. A reduction in insulin secretion in the fasting state and in response to glucose ingestion is observed in well-trained athletes and after a period of physical training in previously sedentary subjects. A program of physical training may be encouraged in the management of insulin-dependent and insulin-independent diabetes, provided no contraindication exists on the basis of cardiopulmonary, orthopedic, or other considerations.
Contribution of B7-H1/PD-1 Co-inhibitory Pathway to T-Cell Dysfunction in Cancer

Ample evidence indicates cancer patients often mount adaptive immune response against cancer, and tumor-specific CD8 effector T cells could infiltrate into tumor lesions. However, these immune responses are often incapable of controlling cancer growth. It is becoming clear in recent years that tumor cells utilize various elaborate tactics to passively reduce their immunogenicity to avoid detection by immune system and to actively induce immune tolerance by surface expression or secreting inhibitory and pro-apoptotic molecules to evade immune system. In the last few years, expression of several B7 family co-signaling molecules, including B7-H1 (Thompson et al., 2006) and B7-H4 (Krambeck et al., 2006), has been linked to accelerated tumor progression and poor prognosis. Furthermore, B7H1-PD-1 pathway has been vigorously investigated and found to be associated with T-cell dysfunction in chronic infections, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (Day et al., 2006; Trautmann et al., 2006), hepatitis C virus (HCV) (Urbani et al., 2006) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) (Boni et al., 2007). In this chapter, we will focus on the discussion of the mechanisms of B7-H1 and PD-1 pathway in negative regulation of T-cell function and potential therapeutic manipulations targeting B7H1 in the treatment of cancer and chronic viral infections.
Camera traps at northern river otter latrines enhance carnivore detectability along riparian areas in eastern North America

Abstract We evaluated the efficacy of placing camera traps at river otter ( Lontra canadensis ) latrines (discrete sites in riparian areas where otters regularly deposit scats, urine, and anal secretions) to detect other carnivores occupying Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, New Jersey, USA. We postulated that scents at latrines may serve as an attractant to other carnivores and evaluated this premise by using camera traps to compare carnivore detection rates (overall and by species) and richness (overall and for each survey month) between latrine ( n = 5 ) and non-latrine riparian areas ( n = 5 ). On average carnivore richness was about 1.7 times higher than that of a non-latrine, and mean richness was higher at latrines for all survey months. Likewise, the overall carnivore detection frequency was 3.5 times greater at latrines, and the detection frequencies for red foxes ( Vulpes vulpes ), northern raccoons ( Procyon lotor ), river otters, mink ( Neovison vison ), long-tailed weasels ( Mustela frenata ), and Virginia opossums ( Didelphis virginiana ) were greater at latrines. American black bears ( Ursus americanus ) and eastern coyotes ( Canis latrans ) where detected more frequently at non-latrines. Our study provides evidence that placement of camera traps at otter latrines may serve as a new and novel approach for monitoring carnivore populations in riparian areas.