cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of topical PGF2α on aqueous humor dynamics in cynomolgus monkeys

Single topical applications of prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) tromethamine salt to living cynomolgus monkey eyes reduced intraocular pressure (IOP). Twice daily topical application was far more effective, so that after the 7th 50 micrograms or 100 micrograms dose on day 4, IOP fell 40-50%, to 8-10 mm Hg. Following twice daily application of 50 or 100 micrograms for greater than 3 days: (1) no increase in total outflow facility could be demonstrated by 2-level constant pressure perfusion or Schiotz tonography; (2) no decrease in aqueous humor formation rate could be demonstrated by fluorophotometry--rather, aqueous flow may have increased; (3) anterior chamber aqueous humor protein concentration was unaltered, but entry of intravenously injected fluorescein into the cornea and anterior chamber tended to increase; (4) there was a weak but sometimes statistically significant miosis of up to approximately 0.5 mm. We conclude that in the cynomolgus monkey: (1) PGF2 alpha is a potent ocular hypotensive agent with only very weak miotic and blood-aqueous barrier-disrupting effects; (2) the ocular hypotensive action of PGF2 alpha is definitely not due to increased conventional outflow facility or decreased aqueous production, but probably to increased uveoscleral drainage of aqueous humor.
Semiconductor aspects of the passive oxide film on aluminum as modified by surface alloying

Abstract For a series of binary aluminum surface alloys prepared by ion implantation, the critical pitting potential is a linear function of the isoelectric point of the oxide of the alloying element in the binary alloy. This follows by first showing that the critical pitting potential is a linear function of the flat-band potential of the oxide-covered surface. The flat-band potential is shown to be a linear function of the isoelectric point of the oxide film on the alloy surface. Use is then made of the mixing rule to relate the isoelectric point of the mixed oxide on the binary alloy to the isoelectric point of its constituent oxides (the oxide of the alloying element plus Al2O3). For a series of ion-implanted binary aluminum surface alloys, there is good agreement between the predicted and experimental pitting potentials, given the simplifying assumptions that have been made.
A Comparison of Within‐Firm and External Sources of Product Innovation

This paper examines the role of internal and external research, design and development (RD&D) activity in the innovation performance of New York State manufacturing firms in the scientific instruments sector. Survey data from a sample of 204 small and medium-sized companies suggest that the incidence of successful product development is higher among firms that combine in-house RD&D with technical support from independent specialists. Significantly, firms that supplement their in-house innovation efforts with outside talent are found to exhibit better commercial performance than their counterparts that operate on the basis of either internal or external technical resources alone. The paper concludes with a brief agenda for future empirical research on the conditions that support product innovation among small and medium-sized firms.
Changes in behavior of evoked potentials in the brain as a possible indicator of fatigue in people

Many professions place significant mental and/or physical strain on their workers. Some professionals (such as firefighters, soldiers, and pilots) have an inherent responsibility for the safety of others. Making sure that workers in these remain fit for duty is an important health/safety concern for the workers and those they serve. This paper explores the viability of using EEG as a non-invasive, cost efficient method for assessing fatigue, sleep deprivation, physical exertion and stress. Specifically, P300 evoked potentials are generated in response to certain stimuli. Variations in the response characteristics (magnitude, shape, and peak shift) are explored in relation to sleep deprivation, caffeine usage, and physical exertion. Preliminary data suggests that there are quantifiable changes to the P300 response that may be attributed to fatigue.
The second step in data analysis: Coding qualitative research data

Coding is a process used in the analysis of qualitative research, which takes time and creativity. Three steps will help facilitate this process: 1. Reading through the data and creating a storyline; 2. Categorizing the data into codes; and 3. Using memos for clarification and interpretation. Remembering the research question or storyline, while coding will help keep the qualitative researcher focused on relevant codes. A data dictionary can be used to define the meaning of the codes and keep the process transparent. Coding is done using either predetermined (a priori) or emergent codes, and most often, a combination of the two. By using memos to help clarify how the researcher is constructing the codes and his/her interpretations, the analysis will be easier to write in the end and have more consistency. This paper describes the process of coding and writing memos in the analysis of qualitative data related to diabetes research.
Comparison of peritoneal white blood cell parameters from continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis patients with a high or low incidence of peritonitis.

The purpose of this study was to determine if there were differences in selected dialysate white blood cells (WBC) parameters between continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patient groups identified as having a high or low incidence of peritonitis. Parameters studied were total peritoneal WBC yield, percentage and absolute number of various WBC types, and expression of WBC receptors known to be involved in normal host defense mechanisms. WBCs were obtained from peritoneal dialysis effluents (overnight dwell), which were collected at monthly intervals for 6 to 8 months from eight CAPD patients-four with a history of high peritonitis incidence (HPI) (more than two episodes in 12 months) and four with a history of low peritonitis incidence (LPI) (no episodes in more than 24 months). Our results demonstrated that there was no significant difference in the overall mean total cell yields or absolute cell counts between the two patient groups. WBC differentials, although differing somewhat among patients, stayed quite stable over time for an individual patient and there was no significant difference between the two patient groups. Analysis of receptors on the peritoneal WBC was performed using flow cytometry and fluorescein-conjugated chemotactic factors (C5a and Met-Leu-Phe-Lys), as well as monoclonal antibodies specific for Fc receptors and complement receptors, CR1(CD35) and CR3 (CD11 b). Although there was a trend toward increased expression of all of these receptors in the HPI patients, there was no significant difference in the fluorescence intensity of peritoneal neutrophils or macrophages that expressed these receptors between the two patient groups. It has been proposed that altered peritoneal host defense mechanisms exist in patients with a high rate of peritonitis. However, based on the parameters analyzed in this study, no significant differences could be found among patients or between groups identified as having a high or low incidence of peritonitis.
Calibration of an autoranging condensation nuclei counter

Abstract The response characteristics of an autoranging condensation nuclei counter was evaluated with monodisperse uranine particles. The autoranging was obtained by measuring particle concentration ranges at different detection times after adiabatic expansion. The detection times recommended by the manufacturer were shown to be inadequate to achieve accurate counting efficiencies. However, accurate efficiencies (within ± 20 %.) could be obtained by careful adjustments of detection times and amplifier gains.
THROMBOSPONDIN (TSP)-DEPENDENT MIGRATION OF GLIOBLASTOMA CELLS: RELATIONSHIP TO INVASIVE POTENTIAL AND INVOLVEMENT OF TSP STRUCTURAL DOMAINS. ▴ 913

THROMBOSPONDIN (TSP)-DEPENDENT MIGRATION OF GLIOBLASTOMA CELLS: RELATIONSHIP TO INVASIVE POTENTIAL AND INVOLVEMENT OF TSP STRUCTURAL DOMAINS. ▴ 913
The effects of closed tracheal suctioning plus volume guarantee on cerebral hemodynamics.

To compare the effects of open tracheal suctioning (OS) plus intermittent mandatory ventilation (IMV) vs closed tracheal suctioning (CS) plus volume guarantee ventilation (VG) on changes in mean cerebral blood-flow velocity (CBFv) of ventilated very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. A total of 75 normotensive, ventilated VLBW infants (with normal cranial ultrasounds) had monitoring of mean CBFv, PCO2 and mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) before, during and after 220 tracheal suctioning sessions during the first week of life. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to determine the factor(s) influencing the magnitude of relative changes from baseline in mean CBFv after suctioning. In all, 49 VLBW infants receiving IMV had monitoring during 124 OS sessions between July 2002 and May 2005; 26 VLBW infants receiving VG had monitoring during 96 CS sessions between January 2006 and July 2007. The average magnitude of relative changes in mean CBFv was significantly less with CS+VG, and was associated with the magnitude of relative changes in PCO2 and suctioning-ventilator group. The average magnitude of relative changes in mean CBFv was reduced in VLBW infants with CS+VG vs OS+IMV.
Measuring and minimizing diode detector nonlinearity

This paper describes two techniques for measuring the linearity of amplitude detectors in general, and for measuring the deviation from square-law E of point-contact diode detectors in particular. A general mathematical model is given for determining the RF input power as a function of the detector output voltage. It is shown how to choose the value and the temperature coefficient of the video load resistance to minimize E and make E independent of temperature.
Family studies of neutrophil alloantigens in bone marrow transplantation.

In order to evaluate the utility of the neutrophil specific antigens NA1, NA2, Vaz (NC1), NB1 and 9a in the documentation of bone marrow chimeras in recipients of allogeneic bone marrow grafts, neutrophil antigen typing was performed by EDTA microagglutination on the families of 17 patients with hematopoietic disorders under evaluation for bone marrow transplantation. Mendelian segregation independent of HLA and mutually independent was noted for the NA, NB and 9a systems. Vaz (NC1) segregated with and was included in NA2. Serological complexity was noted for NA1 and NA2. Typing for neutrophil antigens was achieved for 13 of 17 patients. Eight of 10 pateints with HLA identical siblings had neutrophil antigen markers differing between donor and recipient. Conversion to donor neutrophil phenotype was documented for four recipients of bone marrow grafts. The neutrophil antigens, particularly of the NA system, appear to be useful additional markers for allogeneic bone marrow engraftment.
LXII. Second memoir on the determination of the curvature invariant of space-time

(1924). LXII. Second memoir on the determination of the curvature invariant of space-time. The London, Edinburgh, and Dublin Philosophical Magazine and Journal of Science: Vol. 48, No. 286, pp. 619-628.
Contribution of hip joint proprioception to static and dynamic balance in cerebral palsy: a case control study

Balance problems are common in cerebral palsy (CP) but etiology is often uncertain. The classic Romberg test compares ability to maintain standing with eyes open versus closed. Marked instability without vision is a positive test and generally indicates proprioceptive loss. From previous work showing diminished hip joint proprioception in CP, we hypothesized that static and dynamic balance without vision (positive Romberg) would be compromised in CP. Force plate sway and gait velocity data were collected using 3D motion capture on 52 participants, 19 with diplegic CP, 13 with hemiplegic CP, and 20 without disability. Center of mass (COM) and center or pressure (COP) velocity, excursion, and differences between COM and COP in AP and ML directions were computed from static standing trials with eyes open and closed. Mean gait velocity with and without dribble glasses was compared. Hip joint proprioception was quantified as the root mean square of magnitude of limb positioning errors during a hip rotation task with and without view of the limb. Mixed model repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed with condition as within-subject (EO, EC) and group as between-subject factors (hemiplegia, diplegia, controls). Sway characteristics and gait speed were correlated with proprioception values. Groups with CP had greater sway in standing with eyes open indicating that they had poorer balance than controls, with the deficit relatively greater in the ML compared to AP direction. Contrary to our hypothesis, the decrement with eyes closed did not differ from controls (negative Romberg); however, proprioception error was related to sway parameters particularly for the non-dominant leg. Gait speed was related to proprioception values such that those with worse proprioception tended to walk more slowly. Postural instability is present even in those with mild CP and is yet another manifestation of their motor control disorder, the specific etiology of which may vary across individuals in this heterogeneous diagnostic category.
0012 Utilising health literacy in chronic disease and injury prevention

Statement of purpose Literacy is a stronger predictor of an individual’s health status than age, income, employment status, education level or racial/ethnic group. To improve health literacy and encourage patient-provider communication among cardiovascular patients aged 50 and older, Pennsylvania has partnered with the Health Care Improvement Foundation (HCIF) to provide health literacy training to providers and patient activation training to senior groups in Southeast Pennsylvania. Methods/Approach The strategy took a multi-prong approach: Conduct health literacy trainings for providers/staff from health systems focusing on oral communication, materials development, e-health, and advocacy efforts. Train adults from senior groups as peer educators to provide patient activation in Senior Centres, ESL classes, and other community venues. Provide mini-grants to hospitals to pilot programs, modify materials, or address e-health needs as they relate to health literacy. Results To date, the program has trained 69 peer educators, 334 adult health care consumers have received patient activation/education, 4,750 providers have been trained in effective patient-provider communication, and 34 cardiovascular health literacy interventions have been implemented at 10 hospitals. Through collaborative efforts with the Hospital and Health System Association (HAP), HCIF expanded health literacy training statewide. HAP conducted the trainings at an additional 25 hospitals around the state that trained 1,878 providers. Conclusions HCIF is involved with 10 hospitals that are creatively implementing ways to improve communication with their patients. Partnership with these hospitals and with HAP will continue and expansion will occur to four community organisations that work with the Pennsylvania Immigration and Citizenship Coalition to provide patient activation to members of multilingual communities. Significance and contribution to the field Providing health literacy education and training to health care providers and patients will improve prevention efforts for chronic disease and injury. Associated costs will be reduced as health literacy also leads to reduced readmission rates.
Effect of Seeding Date, Seeding Rate, and Seed Treatments on Saltgrass Seed Germination and Establishment

Inland saltgrass [Distichlis spicata var. stricta (L.) Greene], native to the western United States, has potential for use as a turfgrass and a revegetation species on saline sites. This study was conducted (i) to evaluate the effect of seeding date, seeding rate, and seed treatments on saltgrass establishment; and (ii) to determine the required accumulative growing degree days (GDD) for saltgrass to establish adequate cover (>80%) after seeding. Seeding dates were 15 May, 15 June, and 15 July in 2006. Machine scarification and stratification broke saltgrass seed dormancy equally well. Saltgrass seeded in May established adequate coverage (≥80%) in September even using the lowest seeding rate (74 kg ha -1 ). For plots seeded in June, only the higher seeding rates (123 and 170 kg ha -1 ) established adequate coverage (>80%) by the end of growing season. For plots seeded in July, however, even the highest seeding rate failed to establish adequate coverage in September. The accumulated GDD to achieve adequate coverage was 1748, 1663, and 1435 for 74, 123, and 172 kg ha -1 seeding rates, respectively.
Discussion of Managerial Actions, Stock Returns, and Earnings: The Case of Business‐to‐Business Internet Firms

This study contributes to research investigating the effect of non-financial information on stock prices (e.g., Demers and Lev [2000]; Hand [2000]; Rajgopal, Venkatachalam, and Kotha [2000]; and Trueman, Wong, and Zhang [2000]), and consistent with the stated objective of the conference organizers, is multi-disciplinary in nature. The authors analyze the market's short and long-term reaction to over 3,000 individual announcements of various managerial actions, such as customer acquisitions, marketing alliances, and new product introduction. The study focuses exclusively on business-to-business Internet firms through the fall of year 2000. The authors chose not to examine business to consumer firms because
Bounding solutions of geometrically nonlinear viscoelastic problems

Integral transform techniques, such as the Laplace transform, provide simple and direct methods for solving viscoelastic problems formulated within a context of linear material response and using linear measures for deformation. Application of the transform operator reduces the governing linear integro-differential equations to a set of algebraic relations between the transforms of the unknown functions, the viscoelastic operators, and the initial and boundary conditions. Inversion either directly or through the use of the appropriate convolution theorem, provides the time domain response once the unknown functions have been expressed in terms of sums, products or ratios of known transforms. When exact inversion is not possible approximate techniques may provide accurate results. The overall problem becomes substantially more complex when nonlinear effects must be included. Situations where a linear material constitutive law can still be productively employed but where the magnitude of the resulting time dependent deformations warrants the use of a nonlinear kinematic analysis are considered. The governing equations will be nonlinear integro-differential equations for this class of problems. Thus traditional as well as approximate techniques, such as cited above, cannot be employed since the transform of a nonlinear function is not explicitly expressible.
OESTROGEN AND NIGROSTRIATAL DOPAMINERGIC NEURODEGENERATION: ANIMAL MODELS AND CLINICAL REPORTS OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE

1. The exact nature of oestrogen (positive, negative or no effect) in the dopaminergic neurodegenerative disorder Parkinson's disease is controversial. 2. In the present review, we summarize the data on oestrogen and nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurodegeneration in animal models and clinical reports of Parkinson's disease. 3. Most animal studies support the ability of oestrogen to function as a neuroprotectant against neurotoxins that target the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system. 4. Retrospective and prospective clinical studies generally support the findings from animal studies that oestrogen exerts a positive, or, at worst, no effect, in Parkinson's disease. 5. Oestrogen was chosen as one of the 12 neuroprotective compounds to be attractive candidates for further clinical trials (Phase II or III) in 2003.
In vivo fluorescence imaging of the functional organization of trophotaenial placental cells of goodeid fishes.

Embryos of viviparous goodeid fishes undergo a 10 to 150 × increase in dry weight during gestation. Maternal nutrients are transferred across a trophotaenial placenta comprised of the ovarian lumenal epithelium and the trophotaeniae of the embryo. Trophotaeniae are externalized projections of the embryonic hindgut. Epithelial cells of the ribbon trophotaenia (Ameca splendens) resemble intestinal absorptive cells of suckling mammals and endocytose macromolecules. They possess an apical brush border, endocytotic complex, endosomal-lysosomal system, and apical and basal clusters of mitochondria. Cells of the rosette trophotaenia (Goodea atripinnis) lack an endocytotic apparatus, have small lysosomes, two mitochondrial clusters, and transport small molecules. Organelle-specific fluorescent probes were employed to characterize the functional organization of the two types of trophotaenial cells. In A. splendens, Lucifer Yellow, a membrane-impermeable tracer of vesicular transport, first appears in peripheral vesicles (15-45 sec), then passes into elongated tubular endosomes (1-3 min) and later appears in large central vacuoles (10-15 min). These vacuoles accumulate Acridine Orange, a classical probe for lysosomes, and have been shown to contain lysosomal enzymes. Endosomelysosome fusion was observed. In both A. splendens and G. atripinnis, Rhodamine 123 fluorescence was localized in two clusters of fine spots that corresponded to mitochondria. 4',6-diaminido-2-phenyl-indole (DAPI) staining of nuclei established the positional relationships of cell organelles with respect to the nuclei. 3,3'-dihexyloxacarbo-cyanine iodide (DiOC6 ) revealed the perinuclear distribution of the endoplasmic reticulum. In order to compare in vivo fluorescence of Lucifer Yellow with previous ultrastructural observations, we employed fluorescence photoconversion and electron microscopy. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Fluorescent derivatization for low concentration protein analysis by capillary electrophoresis

Abstract Fluorescence derivatization can allow for the low concentration analysis of proteins by capillary electrophoresis. Major problems arising from inefficient chemistry and multiple derivatives must be overcome, however, for the method to be successful. A number of methods are discussed in this review.
Epigenetic control of natural killer cell maturation by histone H2A deubiquitinase, MYSM1

Histone modifications play critical roles in regulating immunity; however, little is known about the epigenetic control of natural killer (NK) cell development. Here, we found that NK cell development is severely impaired in mice deficient in the histone H2A deubiquitinase MYSM1. We demonstrated that MYSM1 is required for NK cell maturation but not for NK lineage specification and commitment. We also found that MYSM1 intrinsically controls this NK cell maturation. Mechanistic studies revealed that the expression of transcription factor, inhibitor of DNA-binding protein (ID2), a critical factor for NK cell development, is impaired in Mysm1−/− NK cells. MYSM1 interacts with nuclear factor IL-3 (NFIL3, also known as E4BP4), a critical factor for mouse NK cell development, and the recruitment of nuclear factor Il-3 to the ID2 locus is dependent on MYSM1. Further, we observed that MYSM1 is involved in maintaining an active chromatin at the ID2 locus to promote NK cell development. Hence this study demonstrates the critical epigenetic regulation of NK cell development by the histone H2A deubiquitinase MYSM1 through the transcriptional control of transcription factors important for NK cell development.
Exopolysaccharide production from whey lactose by fermentation with Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus

Ropy Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus (strain RR) was used for production of exopolysaccharide in sweet whey and simulated whey permeate (SWP) supplemented with combinations of lactose, KH2PO4, NH4Cl, casamino acids, and mineral salts. Media were incubated at 32, 37, and 44°C for 72h. Periodic adjustment of pH to ∼6.2 increased viscosity and lactose utilization, and the free galactose and lactic acid in the media. The effect of pH adjustment was greater than that of supplementation with nutrients or minerals. Fermentation of supplemented SWP generally produced lower viscosities than did fermentation of supplemented sweet whey. After 24h fermentation, viscosity decreased in pH adjusted media. Viscosity of media was highest when incubation was at 32°C and lowest with incubation at 44°C.
Instrumentation on the Remote Atmospheric and Ionospheric Detection System Experiment: extreme-ultraviolet spectrometer, photometer, and near-infrared spectrometer

The Remote Atmospheric and Ionospheric Detection System experiment consists of eight instruments spanning the wavelength range from the extreme ultraviolet (55 nm) to the near infrared (800 nm) oriented to view the Earth's limb from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration TIROS-J spacecraft to be launched into a circular orbit in 1993. Through measurements of the natural optical emissions and scattered sunlight originating in the upper atmosphere including the mesosphere and thermosphere, state variables such as temperature, composition, density, and ion concentration of this region will be inferred. The subset of instruments fabricated or otherwise provided by the Space and Environment Technology Center (formerly Space Sciences Laboratory) at The Aerospace Corporation are described.
Practical Identities and Autonomy: Korsgaard's Reformation of Kan's Moral Philosophy

Kant has long been taxed with an inability to explain the detailed normative content of our lives by making universalizability the sole arbiter of our values. Korsgaard addresses one form of this critique by defending a Kantian theory amended by a seemingly attractive conception of practical identities. Identities are dependent on the contingent circumstances of each person's world. Hence, obligations issuing from them differ from Kantian moral obligations in not applying to all persons. Still, Korsgaard takes Kantian autonomy to mean the normativity of all obligations is rooted in universalizability. The wealth of values informing our lives is thus said to be accommodated within a Kantian framework. After briefly explaining Korsgaard's understanding of practical identities and their role in her reformation of Kant's moral philosophy, I argue that she gives an inadequate explanation of how the obligations that arise from a person's practical identities derive their authority from the person's will. I then consider how her position might be developed to meet this objection in accordance with her allegiance to “constructivism” and I argue that the epistemic commitments of people's actual identities makes it unlikely that such a development could preserve Kantian autonomy as she interprets it.
An innovative longitudinal curriculum to increase emergency medicine residents' exposure to rarely encountered and technically challenging procedures.

BACKGROUND Procedural skills have historically been taught at the bedside. In this study, we aimed to increase resident knowledge of uncommon emergency medical procedures to increase residents' procedural skills in common and uncommon emergency medical procedures and to integrate cognitive training with hands-on procedural instruction using high- and low-fidelity simulation. METHODS We developed 13 anatomically/physiologically-based procedure modules focusing on uncommon clinical procedures and/or those requiring higher levels of technical skills. A departmental expert directed each session with collaboration from colleagues in related subspecialties. Sessions were developed based on Manthey and Fitch's stages of procedural competency including 1) knowledge acquisition, 2) experience/technical skill development, and 3) competency evaluation. We then distributed a brief, 10-question, online survey to our residents in order to solicit feedback regarding their perceptions of increased knowledge and ability in uncommon and common emergency medical procedures, and their perception of the effectiveness of integrated cognitive training with hands-on instruction through high- and low-fidelity simulation. RESULTS Fifty percent of our residents (11/22) responded to our survey. Responses indicated the procedure series helped with understanding of both uncommon (65% strongly agreed [SA], 35% agreed [A]) and common (55% SA, 45% A) emergency medicine procedures and increased residents' ability to perform uncommon (55% SA, 45% A) and common (45% SA, 55% A) emergency medical procedures. In addition, survey results indicated that the residents were able to reach their goal numbers. CONCLUSION Based on survey results, the procedure series improved our residents' perceived understanding of and perceived ability to perform uncommon and more technically challenging procedures. Further, results suggest that the use of a cognitive curriculum model as developed by Manthey and Fitch is adaptable and could be modified to fit the needs of other medical specialties.
OH 1720 MHz Masers in the Galactic Center: Sagittarius A East and the Circumnuclear Disk

We present new and archival Very Large Array (VLA) radio interferometry observations of the 1720 MHz OH masers in the Galactic Center (GC). Most 1720 MHz OH masers arise in regions where the supernova remnant Sgr A East is interacting with the interstellar medium. However, here we also present some previously detected positive velocity masers together with some newly detected negative velocity masers. In combination, those masers appear to bracket Sgr A* in position and velocity. The location and velocities of those masers are consistent with their being in the circumnuclear disk (CND).
Effects of confluence on phosphate transport capacity in cultured renal cell lines

The LLC-PK1 cell line transports phosphate (Pi), glucose, and amino acids using carriers similar to those in proximal tubular cells. Others have reported that when monolayers reach confluence, hexose transport increases and activity of the A-amino acid transporter falls. The present study evaluates Pi uptake by two continuous cell lines derived from renal proximal tubule, and demonstrates that phosphate uptake falls sharply upon reaching confluence in LLC-PK1 cells but not in cultured opossum kidney (OK) cells. The fall in Pi uptake in LLC-PK1 cells at confluence represents a halving in Vmax for Na-dependent phosphate uptake (2.33 vs. 5.00 nmol/mg protein/5 min) without a change in Km (82 vs. 94 microM). Suppression of phosphate transport in confluent monolayers of LLC-PK1 cells is completely reversed by bringing the cells into suspension. As has been shown for the phorbol ester 12-O-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate (TPA), exposure of monolayers to serum stimulates phosphate uptake, but unlike phorbol ester, serum does so without stimulating alanine uptake. OK cells differ from LLC-PK1 in that no change occurs in Pi uptake at confluence, although they resemble LLC-PK1 cells in that sugar uptake rises and alanine uptake falls at confluence. The different temporal patterns for Pi uptake in the two cell lines indicates that developmental change in the uptake of Pi is not linked to that of glucose or alanine.
Post‐implementation cleanup using microcomputer‐based programming

As more libraries automate for the First time or migrate to more sophisticated integrated systems in a time of fiscal restraint and, in many cases, down‐sized staffing, the ability to automate as many functions as possible (particularly tedious ones, such as database cleanup) would seem desirable. The project described in this article is a good example. If the microcomputer program for cleaning up Kent State University's NOTIS database was not written, the project, which probably should have begun years ago, would still not have been implemented. The solution presented here addresses these key issues realistically, within the confines of the programming resources available within many libraries.
Virtual FRAP - an Experiment-Oriented Simulation Tool

The aim of this work is to create data- and experiment-driven simulation software that leverages kinetic models of intracellular processes. There is a need for specific tools that combine descriptions of mechanistic hypotheses of cellular physiology with detailed descriptions of experimental protocols and manipulations. We used components and technologies from the Virtual Cell platform (VCell; http:/vcell.org/), which was designed to provide a separation of layers representing biological models, physical mechanisms, geometry, mathematical models and numerical methods. We are developing standalone software packages for kinetic model-assisted simulation, analysis, and interpretation of common experimental protocols. The initial focus is on fluorescence microscopy - the Virtual Microscopy suite. The first prototype is the “Virtual FRAP” tool. This is a mostly data-centric experiment analysis framework that allows incorporating fluorescence microscopy (instrumentation, indicators, labels) into existing models of cellular physiology. The microscopy data is formally represented, and it is used to derive cellular geometry, distributions of molecules, and to perform quantitative comparisons with simulated model predictions. This overcomes the limitations of “traditional” approaches that use simplified parameterized “models” with closed-form analytical solutions. Such a customized environment combines powerful experiment description and analysis features with the flexibility of simulating more general classes of spatial models.
Adjunctive oxcarbazepine in comorbid anxiety and affective disorder with hyponatremic seizure: case analysis and literature review

Rational polypharmacy is required for management of refractory psychiatric disorders. Antiepileptic drugs are increasingly used as primary or adjunctive agents in the treatment of affective, schizoaffective, anxiety, and impulse control disorders. In this case report, the authors present the first case of hyponatremic seizure associated with oxcarbazepine in adjunctive treatment of comorbid affective/anxiety disorders.
Enhancing vehicular internet connectivity using whitespaces, heterogeneity, and a scouting radio

We explore the use of TV whitespace communication systems for providing robust connectivity to vehicles. A key challenge in this setup is the asymmetry in transmit power limits -- the fixed base station is allowed to communicate at up to 4 W, while the mobile gateways in vehicles are limited to 100 mW. This paper presents a specific solution to deal with this asymmetry in which whitespace transceivers are used in the downlink direction while a more traditional cellular path is used in the uplink one. While heterogeneous communication systems have been considered before (e.g., in some satellite networks), our solution explores some unique opportunities that arise in vehicular systems. In particular, we describe a system called Scout that uses a front radio at the head of a vehicle to look ahead and identify the best channel parameters to be used when the rear radio eventually reaches the forward post. We use these channel estimates to adapt a number of transmission mechanisms for improving the performance of flows through this heterogeneous network. We have implemented and deployed this system on moving vehicles in an urban environment, and demonstrated 3 -- 8× performance improvement over simpler alternatives that do not use the scouting technique.
A radiographic computed tomography–based study to determine the ideal entry point, trajectory, and length for safe fixation using C-2 pars interarticularis screws

Object Effective methods for fixation of the axis include C1–2 transarticular and C-2 pedicle screw placement. Both techniques pose a risk of vertebral artery (VA) injury in patients with narrow pedicles or an enlarged, high-riding VA. Pars screws at C-2 avoid the pedicle, but can cause VA injury with excessively long screws. Therefore, the authors evaluated various entry points and trajectories to determine ideal pars screw lengths that avoid breaching the transverse foramen. Methods Both pars were studied on 50 CT scans (100 total). Various pars lengths were assessed using 2 entry points and 3 trajectories (6 measurements). Entry point A was the superior one-fourth of the lateral mass. Entry point B was 3-mm rostral to the inferior aspect of the lateral mass. Using entry points A and B, Trajectory 1 was the minimum distance to the transverse foramen; Trajectory 2 was the maximum distance to the transverse foramen; and Trajectory 3 was the steepest angle to the pars/C-2 superior facet junction without tr...
Feasibility Studies of a Rotating Detonation Wave Rocket Motor

This paper considers, analytically and experimentally, the feasibility of a rocket motor utilizing a detonation wave rotating in an annular combustion chamber wherein the propel- lants are introduced continuously through the injectors and expelled through an annular nozzle. Experiments utilizing gaseous hydrogen and oxygen and gaseous methane and oxygen were conducted in a small-scale annular rocket motor. A breakable diaphragm extending across the annular chamber and a baffle plate extending outside the chamber were required to achieve a single detonation wave propagating in one tangential direction. A single Chap- man-Jouguet wave was realized successfully for the first cycle but subsequent cycles of the wave were not obtained. It is believed that the injector pattern with the consequent high turbulence level, premature burning, and limited mass flow characteristic was a major part of the difficulty. The analyses conducted indicated that such a motor is feasible and therefore worth consideration in view of the possible advantages mentioned in the introduction. How- ever, the primary need at this point is for experimental measurements under actual operating conditions. The findings of this study also are discussed in the light of possible application to conventional rocket motor combustion instability.
Enhancing and Facilitating Self-Efficacious Behaviors in Distance Learning Environments

The need to understand contemporary adult learners and the methods that promote continual, sustained learning is of paramount importance particularly for doctoral programs, but more specifically for online doctoral programs. The online format is viewed as an alternative way to learn in a technologically driven society that focuses on time, opportunity, and convenience as critical considerations for learning endeavors. An examination of the factors associated with attrition in doctoral programs includes understanding and confronting personal and institutional barriers to successful matriculation. Researchers have identified general characteristics of effective graduate students such as motivation, attitude, collegiality, writing/communication skills, values and integrity (Walpole, Burton, Kanyi, & Jackenthal, 2002) but have not established a clear understanding of the specific characteristics that facilitate or obstruct enduring and sustained learning. This paper proposes a conceptual model that includes attributes of learner autonomy (desire, resourcefulness, initiative, and persistence in learning) as influential mediators of self-efficacy and motivation for learning and may improve retention and completion rates in higher education.
Effects of Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide and Other Peptides on Cyclic AMP Accumulation in Intact Pieces and Isolated Horizontal Cells of the Teleost Retina

The effects of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and several other peptides have been examined on cyclic AMP accumulation in intact pieces and isolated horizontal cells of the teleost (carp) retina. VIP was the most effective peptide examined, inducing a dose-related response, and an approximately fivefold increase in cyclic AMP production when used at a concentration of 10 microM. Porcine histidine isoleucine-containing peptide and secretin, peptides structurally related to VIP, also stimulated cyclic AMP accumulation, but at concentrations of 10 microM induced responses which were only approximately 40% and 10%, respectively, of the response observed with 10 microM VIP. In contrast, several other peptides, including glucagon, neurotensin, somatostatin, luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone, alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone, cholecystokinin octapeptide26-33, gastrin-releasing peptide, thyrotropin-releasing hormone, and VIP10-28 were totally inactive. The response to 10 microM VIP was not antagonized by several dopamine antagonists, indicating the presence of a population of specific VIP receptors coupled to adenylate cyclase, distinct from the population of dopamine receptors coupled to adenylate cyclase also known to be present in this tissue. Finally, experiments involving the use of fractions of isolated horizontal cells indicate that these neurons possess a population of VIP receptors coupled to cyclic AMP production which would appear to share a common pool of adenylate cyclase with a population of similarly coupled dopamine receptors.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Selectivity assessment of noninvasive glucose measurements based on analysis of multivariate calibration vectors.

Background: Selectivity is paramount for the successful implementation of noninvasive spectroscopic sensing for the painless measurement of blood glucose concentrations in people with diabetes. Selectivity issues are explored for different multivariate calibration models based on noninvasive near-infrared spectra collected from an animal model. Methods: Noninvasive near-infrared spectra are collected through a fiber-optic interface attached to a thin fold of skin on the back of an anesthetized laboratory rat while glucose levels are varied in a controlled manner. Results and Discussion: Partial least-squares (PLS) calibration models are generated from noninvasive spectra collected during a single, 2-hour blood glucose transient. Calibration vectors are compared for optimized PLS calibration models created with correct and incorrect assignments of glucose concentrations to each noninvasive spectrum. Although both PLS models appear functional and seem capable of predicting glucose concentrations accurately during this transient, only the model generated from correct glucose assignments gives a credible calibration vector. When correct glucose assignments are used, the PLS calibration vector matches the corresponding net analyte signal calibration vector. No similarity in these calibration vectors is evident when incorrect glucose assignments are used. Conclusions: Glucose-specific spectral information is present within noninvasive near-infrared spectra collected from a rat model using a transmission geometry. Apparently functional, yet incorrect, calibration models can be generated, and the propensity to create such false PLS calibration models calls into question the validity of past reports. An analysis of calibration vectors can provide valuable insight into the chemical basis of selectivity for multivariate calibration models of complex systems.
Ideas for fast accelerator model calibration

With the advent of a simple matrix inversion technique, measurement-based storage ring modeling has made rapid progress in recent years. Using fast computers with large memory, the matrix inversion procedure typically adjusts up to 10/sup 3/ model variables to fit the order of 10/sup 5/ measurements. The results have been surprisingly accurate. Physics aside, one of the next frontiers is to simplify the process and to reduce computation time. In this paper, we discuss two approaches to speed up the model calibration process: recursive least-squares fitting and a piecewise fitting approach.
Conservation analysis of large biochemical networks

Motivation: Large biochemical networks pose a unique challenge from the point of view of evaluating conservation laws. The computational problem in most cases exceeds the capability of available software tools, often resulting in inaccurate computation of the number and form of conserved cycles. Such errors have profound effects on subsequent calculations, particularly in the evaluation of the Jacobian which is a critical quantity in many other calculations. The goal of this paper is to outline a new algorithm that is computationally efficient and robust at extracting the correct conservation laws for very large biochemical networks. Results: We show that our algorithm can perform the conservation analysis of large biochemical networks, and can evaluate the correct conserved cycles when compared with other similar software tools. Biochemical simulators such as Jarnac and COPASI are successful at extracting only a subset of the conservation laws that our algorithm can. This is illustrated with examples for some large networks which show the advantages of our method. Availability: The software is available as part of the latest release of Systems Biology Workbench (SBW version 2.5.0) and can be downloaded from http://www.sys-bio.org. The software is licensed under the BSD open source license and is freely available at sourceforge. Contact: [email protected]
Extraction of DNA from Plant and Fungus Tissues in situ

Background: When samples are collected in the field and transported to the lab, degradation of the nucleic acids contained in the samples is frequently observed. Immediate extraction and precipitation of the nucleic acids reduces degradation to a minimum, thus preserving accurate sequence information. An extraction method to obtain high quality DNA in field studies is described. Findings: DNA extracted immediately after sampling was compared to DNA extracted after allowing the sampled tissues to air dry at 21°C for 48 or 72 hours. While DNA extracted from fresh tissues exhibited little degradation, DNA extracted from all tissues exposed to 21°C air for 48 or 72 hours exhibited varying degrees of degradation. Yield was higher for extractions from fresh tissues in most cases. Four microcentrifuges were compared for DNA yield: one standard electric laboratory microcentrifuge (max rcf=16,000×g), two battery-operated microcentrifuges (max rcf=5,000 and 3,000 ×g), and one manually-operated microcentrifuge (max rcf=120×g). Yields for all centrifuges were similar. DNA extracted under simulated field conditions was similar in yield and quality to DNA extracted in the laboratory using the same equipment. Conclusions: This CTAB (cetyltrimethylammonium bromide) DNA extraction method employs battery-operated and manually-operated equipment to isolate high quality DNA in the field. The method was tested on plant and fungus tissues, and may be adapted for other types of organisms. The method produced high quality DNA in laboratory tests and under simulated field conditions. The field extraction method should prove useful for working in remote sites, where ice, dry ice, and liquid nitrogen are unavailable; where degradation is likely to occur due to the long distances between the sample site and the laboratory; and in instances where other DNA preservation and transportation methods have been unsuccessful. It may be possible to adapt this method for genomic, metagenomic, transcriptomic and metabolomic projects using samples collected in situ.
Critical infrastructure modeling: An approach to characterizing interdependencies of complex networks & control systems

Critical infrastructure control systems face many challenges entering the 21st century, including natural disasters, cyber attacks, and terrorist attacks. Revolutionary change is underway to solve many existing issues, including gaining greater situational awareness and resiliency through embedding modeling and advanced control algorithms in smart sensors and control devices instead of in a central controller. To support design, testing, and component analysis, a flexible simulation and modeling capability is needed. Researchers at Idaho National Laboratory are developing and evaluating such a capability through their CIPRsim modeling and simulation framework.