cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Distribution of gelsolin and phosphoinositol 4,5-bisphosphate in lamellipodia during EGF-induced motility.

Abstract During induced cell motility the actin cytoskeleton at the leading edge must undergo constant reorganization. Recently, phosphoinositides have been shown to be central to cytoskeleton-membrane linkages and actin organization and turnover. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor (EGFR)-mediated cell motility requires phospholipase C-γ (PLCγ), hydrolysis of phosphoinsotide 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP 2 ) and subsequent release of gelsolin. We hypothesized this led to the mobilization of PIP 2 -binding proteins which modify the actin cytoskeleton and thus sought to determine whether the leading edge was a site of active PIP 2 hydrolysis and gelsolin redistribution to cytoskeleton. Herein, we report that during EGF-induced motility, the leading edge’s submembranous region constitutes a distinct subcellular locale. The relevant phosphoinositide composition of this space was determined by probing with an antibody to PIP 2 and a green fluorescence protein (GFP)-tagged pleckstrin homology (PH) domain of PLCδ (GFP-PH) that recognizes both PIP 2 and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP 3 ). PIP 2 was absent from leading lamellipodia despite an increase in IP 3 generation, suggesting an increase in PIP 2 hydrolysis at the leading edge. Visualized with immunofluorescence, gelsolin preferentially concentrated near the leading edge in a punctate fashion. Examining the Triton X-insoluble actin cytoskeleton fractions, we observe a PLCγ-dependent increase of gelsolin incorporation upon EGF stimulation. At a molecular level, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) shows that gelsolin incorporates preferentially into the submembranous actin arcs at the leading edge of the lamellipodia. Together these data suggest a model of PIP 2 hydrolysis at the leading edge causing a localized release of PIP 2 -binding proteins—particularly gelsolin—that drives cytoskeletal rearrangement and protrusion.
Chemokine receptors in the pathogenesis and therapy of psoriasis

Chemokine receptors are G-protein-coupled, seven-transmembrane-spanning surface receptors that play key roles in cell trafficking, cell motility, and survival. These receptors are activated by small molecular weight chemotactic cytokines called chemokines. Chemokine receptors and their corresponding chemokine ligands play roles in the migration and localization of normal T cells (and other cells) during physiological responses in inflamed or infected skin. In psoriasis, the chemokine receptor CCR6 is expressed on the Th17 cells and γδ T cells, which produce a variety of cytokines (IL17 and IL22 among others), that play a role in the immunological activation. CCR6 and its ligand, CCL20, are highly expressed in psoriatic skin lesion and CCR6 is essential for the development of the psoriasiform phenotype following IL23 injection in mouse skin. In this review, we focus on the roles of chemokine receptors, particularly of CCR6, in the pathogenesis of psoriasis and discuss chemokine receptors as novel therapeutic targets for psoriasis.
Risk factors for reason-specific culling of dairy cows

Abstract A set of 7763 Holstein lactations from 34 New York herds was used to explore the influences of production and of 13 diseases on culling. Dying was predicted by high milk yield and by downer cow syndrome. The cows most likely to be sold for dairy purposes were those with shorter previous-lactation calving intervals, with lower milk per calving-interval day in the previous lactation, who calved in the summer, or who had clinical mastitis. Lower estimated transmitting ability for milk, lower milk yield per day in the previous calving interval and calving in the summer (but not clinical mastitis) were risk factors for low production. Having > 3 services, aborting and having cystic ovary were associated with culling for poor reproduction. Culling for udder problems was predicted by lower previous-lactation milk per day, higher current milk per day, clinical mastitis and teat problems. Cows with lower estimated transmitting ability, dystocia, or foot or leg problems were at higher risk of culling for feet and legs. Culling for miscellaneous reasons was associated with lower estimated transmitting ability, higher current milk per day and left displaced abomasum.
Floating Neutral n-Phase Systems

Although this paper treats of the general case of floating neutral polyphase systems, one of its prime objects is to find the very simplest method of solving three-phase unbalanced star circuits. The method presented below is considered much simpler than the one in which the star circuit is replaced by an equivalent delta circuit; also simpler than the method of replacing one unbalanced circuit by two balanced circuits, one being subjected to direct phase rotation and the other to opposite phase rotation. Although these methods are fairly useful for the three-phase case, they become very unwieldy for a number of phases greater than three. Not only is this method more simple than any so far proposed, but it is a direct method, based on a straight forward application of Kirchhoff's Laws. A final and very important advantage of the method is that all the results are perfectly general, applying equally as well to a single-phase system as to any polyphase star system.
Cost-effectiveness of hospital discharge records for reaching selected endpoints in the surveillance of silicosis

Background The Sentinel Event Notification System for Occupational Risks (SENSOR) is a state/federal system for the surveillance and intervention of occupational conditions. The Ohio SENSOR program identifies silicosis cases from a number of data sources, although hospital discharge records have largely been considered the most successful means of carrying out SENSOR objectives. However, the cost-effectiveness of hospital discharge records has not been evaluated. Thus, a cost analysis was conducted to compare the effectiveness of hospital discharge records with other data sources for achieving prevention-related endpoints of silicosis surveillance. Methods Total costs of reaching three endpoints (obtaining case names, identifying work sites, and identifying silica problems in work sites) were estimated retrospectively and measured in 1996 dollars for four data sources: hospital discharge records, physician reports, workers' compensation claims, and death certificates. Total costs were then divided by output for each source/endpoint combination to produce estimates of average costs. Results The average cost per case was $30 for hospital records, $212 for physician reports, $19 for workers' compensation claims, and $7 for death certificates. However, for identifying problem work sites, hospital records were most expensive at $2,883 per work site, compared with $2,558 for physician reports, $1,318 for workers' compensation claims, and $1,310 for death certificates. Conclusions Hospital discharge records were least cost-effective for accomplishing prevention-related goals of surveillance. A change in the mix of resources applied to silicosis surveillance and intervention under SENSOR, i.e., a shift away from follow-up of hospital records toward more cost-effective methods for identifying work sites with silica problems may result in more efficient use of public health resources devoted to the prevention of silicosis. Am. J. Ind. Med. 34:484–492, 1998. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Risk factors for venous thromboembolism in pediatric trauma.

Background Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a major source of morbidity in critically ill trauma patients. Although the incidence and risk factors for VTE after trauma in adults have been well described, similar data regarding pediatric patients are lacking.Methods Pediatric (age < 16 years) trauma p
Characterization of electrical interferences for ground reaction sensor cluster

This paper presents the characterization of electrical interferences for a high-resolution error-correcting biomechanical ground reaction sensor cluster (GRSC), developed for improving inertial measurement unit (IMU) position sensing accuracy. The GRSC is composed of 13 × 13 sensing nodes, which can measure dynamic ground forces, shear strains, and sole deformation associated with a ground locomotion gait. The integrated sensing electronics consist of a front-end multiplexer that can sequentially connect individual sensing nodes in a GRSC to a capacitance-to-voltage converter followed by an ADC, digital control unit, and driving circuitry to interrogate the GRSC. The characterization data shows that the single-ended (z-axis pressure) mode exhibits a large output interference due to the un-matched interconnect traces design, thus limiting sensing resolution to 8 bits. The differential mode (x/y-axes shear strain) shows a reduced interference effect, achieving a 10-bit resolution.
Conservatism and Attitudes toward Suicide: A Study of Taiwanese-American and U.S. Adults.

The Suicide Opinion Questionnaire and the Conservatism scale were administered to two samples of respondents: Eighty-two Taiwanese-Americans and eighty-two United States adults, of comparable gender, age, and geographical location. The results indicated significant differences on seven of the eight SOQ scales, as well as significant differences in conservatism. In both samples, the pattern of correlations between conservatism and attitudes toward suicide was highly similar, with more conservative individuals perceiving suicide as related to mental illness, religion, and moral evil, and less so as a right to die. In both samples, significant differences in attitudes toward suicide were reflected between those self-identified as suicide ideators and those not so identified.
Elastic Displacement and Stress Fields Induced by a Dislocation of Polygonal Shape in an Anisotropic Elastic Half-Space

The elastic displacement and stress fields due to a polygonal dislocation within an anisotropic homogeneous half-space are studied in this paper. Simple line integrals from 0 to p for the elastic fields are derived by applying the point-force Green’s functions in the corresponding half-space. Notably, the geometry of the polygonal dislocation is included entirely in the integrand easing integration for any arbitrarily shaped dislocation. We apply the proposed method to a hexagonal shaped dislocation loop with Burgers vector along [ � 1 1 0] lying on the crystallographic (1 1 1) slip plane within a half-space of a copper crystal. It is demonstrated numerically that the displacement jump condition on the dislocation loop surface and the traction-free condition on the surface of the half-space are both satisfied. On the free surface of the half-space, it is shown that the distributions of the hydrostatic stress (r11 þr22)/2 and pseudohydrostatic displacement (u1 þu2)/2 are both anti-symmetric, while the biaxial stress (r11 � r22)/2 and pseudobiaxial displacement (u1 � u2)/2 are both symmetric. [DOI: 10.1115/1.4005554]
Complexity Analysis of Traffic in Corridors-in-the-Sky

The corridors-in-the-sky concept imitates the highway system in ground transportation. The benefit expected from a corridor relies on its capability of handling high density traffic with negligible controller workload, the acceptance of extra fuel or distance, and the complexity reduction in underlying sectors. This work evaluates a selected corridor from these perspectives through simulations. To examine traffic inside the corridor, a corridor traffic simulation tool that can resolve conflicts is developed using C language. Prescribed conflict resolution maneuvers mimic corridor users behaviors and conflict resolution counts measure complexity. Different lane options and operational policies are proposed to examine their impacts on complexity. Fuel consumption is calculated and compared for corridor traffic. On the other hand, to investigate the complexity of non-corridor traffic in underlying sectors, the existing Airspace Concept Evaluation System tool is utilized along with the Automated Airspace Concept tool. The number of conflict resolutions is examined and treated as the complexity measurement. The results show heavy traffic can be managed with low complexity for a historical traffic schedule simulated with appropriate operational policies and lane options. For instance, with 608 flights and peak aircraft count of 100, only 84 actions need to be taken in a 24-hour period to resolve the conflicts for an 8-lane corridor. Compared with the fuel consumptions with great circle trajectories, the simulation of corridor traffic shows that the total extra fuel for corridor flights is 26,373 gallons, or 2.76%, which is 0.38% less than flying filed flight plans. Without taking climb and descent portions of corridor traffic, the complexity of underlying sectors is reduced by 17.71%. However the climb and descent portions will eliminate the reduction and the overall complexity of sectors is actually increased by 9.14%.
The pseudorabies virus serine/threonine kinase Us3 contains mitochondrial, nuclear and membrane localization signals.

The serine/threonine kinase encoded by the Us3 gene is conserved amongst all known alphaherpesviruses. Us3 has been reported to function in a variety of aspects of the virus lifecycle including protection of cells from virus-induced apoptosis, de-envelopment of enveloped virus particles from the perinuclear space and cell-to-cell spread of virus infection. In this report, we examined the sub-cellular localization of the pseudorabies virus (PRV) Us3 homolog. The PRV Us3 gene encodes two proteins termed Us3a and Us3b. Us3a differs from Us3b in that it contains 54 additional N-terminal amino acids. In transfected cells, Us3a localized predominantly to the plasma membrane whereas the Us3b protein localized predominantly to the nucleus. To explore the differences in the localization of the Us3a and Us3b proteins, we fused the amino-terminal 54 amino acids of Us3a to the amino-terminus of the enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP). Surprisingly, this fusion protein localized exclusively to mitochondria in transfected cells. Analysis of mutated Us3–EGFP fusion proteins in transfected cells revealed that the carboxy-terminal 101 amino acids of Us3a and Us3b comprises a membrane/vesicular localization domain, and that the N-terminal 102 amino acids of Us3b comprises a nuclear localization domain. We provide a model to rationalize the complex localization of Us3a and Us3b in transfected cells and hypothesize that the mitochondrial, nuclear and membrane localization motifs function in the reported anti-apoptotic, egress and cell-to-cell spread functions of Us3.
Step-down from multiple- to single-dose proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): a prospective study of patients with heartburn or acid regurgitation completely relieved with PPIs.

OBJECTIVES: Management costs for gastroesophageal reflux disease are high because of the expensive medications used for maintenance therapy. Previous studies have illustrated the success of step-down from proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to less-expensive therapy once symptoms have abated. This study was conducted to determine whether patients requiring greater than single-dose PPI for initial symptom resolution could be stepped-down to single-dose PPI and whether this intervention decreased costs or adversely affected quality of life. METHODS: Consecutive patients in whom greater than single-dose PPI had completely alleviated reflux-type symptoms (heartburn or acid regurgitation) were recruited through the use of pharmacy records of PPI prescriptions. Eligible subjects completed baseline demographic information and quality-of-life surveys and were stepped-down to single-dose PPI (lansoprazole 30 mg or omeprazole 20 mg daily). Follow-up continued for 6 months or until subjects reported recurrence of reflux-type symptoms, at which point PPIs were reinstituted at the dose that had originally alleviated the subjects' symptoms. The primary outcome was the proportion of subjects in whom step-down was successful, defined as no recurrence of reflux-type symptoms on single-dose PPI. RESULTS: A total of 117 subjects enrolled in the study; all were followed to the primary endpoint. 79.5% did not report recurrent symptoms of heartburn or acid regurgitation during the 6 months after step-down to single-dose PPI. Logistic regression revealed that longer duration of PPI use before study enrollment was associated with greater likelihood of symptom recurrence with step-down. Although quality of life was not significantly altered, dyspepsia (excluding reflux-type symptoms) increased. Overall costs of management were reduced. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of patients rendered asymptomatic on greater than single-dose PPI might be subsequently stepped-down to single-dose therapy without recurrence of reflux-type symptoms. This intervention can decrease management costs without adversely affecting quality of life.
The human fetal synovium. Histology, fine structure and changes in organ culture.

Fetal synovial tissues were obtained postmortem and maintained in organ culture. Preservation and morphologic differentiation was followed histologically for 2–4 weeks. The lining cells of the fetal synovium was found to consist of three cell types: fibroblasts, macrophages and undifferentiated cells. In culture the undifferentiated cells disappeared and the typical macrophages became scarce. Other changes observed were an apparent increase in mast cells, an intracellular accumulation of lipid inclusions, dilated endoplasmic reticulum, and intracellular collagen fibers.
Computer Simulations of Polyisoprene Local Dynamics in Vacuum, Solution, and the Melt: Are Conformational Transitions Always Important?

Molecular dynamics computer simulations have been performed on an isolated polyisoprene chain at 298 K. Simulations of polyisoprene in the melt (413 K) and in solution (298 K) have been previously reported. The local dynamics of polyisoprene chains in these three environments are compared. While conformational transition rates are similar in each environment, orientation correlation times for C−H bond vectors vary by a factor of 20. These simulation results are inconsistent with the common assumption that conformational transitions are largely responsible for the decay of the orientation correlation functions for C−H vectors. Substantial C−H vector relaxation results from coupled small amplitude motions of groups of adjacent torsions which do not involve conformational transitions. This mechanism plays a major role in C−H vector reorientation in the dilute solution simulations and also has a substantial influence in the melt simulations.
Cervical cancer in Iquitos, Peru: local realities to guide prevention planning

Cervical cancer is a major public health problem in Latin America, and in much of the underdeveloped world. This issue has not historically been addressed as a health priority, but in recent years is receiving increased attention and funding. This ethnographic study on the experience of cervical cancer was conducted in Iquitos, Peru, between August 1998 and May 1999. Research methodologies included: (1) observation and household interviews to obtain background knowledge about the region, medical systems, and local cultural understanding of illness; (2) cancer experience interviews; and (3) case studies of women in various stages of cervical cancer or diagnosis. Findings are presented related to local knowledge and experience of Pap smears and cervical cancer and the ineffectiveness of a recently initiated cervical cancer screening program. The findings guide recommendations for interventions in the region in relation to: (1) needed changes in health education, (2) screening frequency and age, (3) sites for screening and treatment, (4) type and availability of treatment, (5) payment issues, (6) documentation of care, and (7) the potential of herbal remedies.
Characterization and Reduction of Pollutant Emissions From a Landfill and Digester Gas Fired Mictroturbine Generator

Distributed Generation (DG), where small-scale power generation capacity is installed at or near its point of use, is of growing interest to reduce the need for the addition of traditional, large, centralized power plants. Microturbine generators (MTGs) represent one type of DG platform, applications for which continue to expand as the technology improves. MTGs have already shown flexibility in operation on alternatives fuels, making them a potential candidate for use in the renewable energy market. However, many renewable fuels, such as gases produced at wastewater treatment plants and landfills, have significantly lower heating values than pure natural gas. Due to lower volumetric energy content, these waste gases are commonly referred to as medium-BTU fuels. While examples of MTGs operating on these renewable fuels grow in number, little detailed information on the systematic effect of fuel composition on MTG performance is available. The current study characterizes emissions performance of a commercial natural gas fired MTG operating on medium-BTU fuel and identifies the relationship between fuel composition and emissions performance over a 50 to 100% load profile. Results from the implementation of a new injector designed to reduce emissions are also presented.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Thermal conductivity accumulation in amorphous silica and amorphous silicon

We predict the properties of the propagating and nonpropagating vibrational modes in amorphous silica ($a$-SiO${}_{2}$) and amorphous silicon ($a$-Si) and, from them, thermal conductivity accumulation functions. The calculations are performed using molecular dynamics simulations, lattice dynamics calculations, and theoretical models. For $a$-SiO${}_{2}$, the propagating modes contribute negligibly to thermal conductivity (6$%$), in agreement with the thermal conductivity accumulation measured by Regner et al. [Nat. Commun. 4, 1640 (2013)]. For $a$-Si, propagating modes with mean-free paths up to 1 $\ensuremath{\mu}$m contribute 40$%$ of the total thermal conductivity. The predicted contribution to thermal conductivity from nonpropagating modes and the total thermal conductivity for $a$-Si are in agreement with the measurements of Regner et al. The accumulation in the measurements, however, takes place over a narrower band of mean-free paths (100 nm--1 $\ensuremath{\mu}$m) than that predicted (10 nm--1 $\ensuremath{\mu}$m).
Neonatal Tuberous Sclerosis and Multiple Cardiac Arrhythmias

An infant female was born at term with a presumptive diagnosis of tuberous sclerosis. Fetal echocardiograms had demonstrated multiple cardiac masses suggestive of rhabdomyomas (Figures 1 and 2⇓), and a fetal magnetic resonance image suggested the presence of brain lesions. An urgent Cesarean section was performed at term due to an irregular tachycardia. Postnatal echocardiograms demonstrated multiple cardiac masses, with large lesions along the lateral wall of the right atrium, the right ventricular apex and at the atrioventricular septum (Figure 3). Intracavitary obstruction was not apparent, but a smaller rhabdomyoma seen under the pulmonary valve caused mild right ventricular outflow tract obstruction. A cranial ultrasound demonstrated multiple echogenic foci, confirming the diagnosis of tuberous sclerosis, and a subsequent computed tomography scan of the brain delineated these lesions more clearly (Figure 4). Figure 1. Echocardiographic fetal four-chamber view of the heart at 27 weeks gestation. Multiple homogenous lesions are seen, including a right atrial mass (1), a lesion at the ventricular septum (2), and a right ventricular apex …
Application of quantitative structure–property relationships (QSPRs) to predict the rejection of organic solutes by nanofiltration

Abstract Recent interest in quantitative structure property/activity relationship (QSPR/QSAR) models to predict the removal of organic contaminants by membrane processes has highlighted the need to develop models applicable to different operating conditions, such as flux. In this study, two types of QSPR models were developed to predict removal of nonionic organic compounds by a nanofiltration membrane (NF270) including: (1) QSPR models with flux as an independent (or predictor) variable; and (2) QSPR models to predict fitting parameters of a fundamental model (i.e., Spiegler–Kedem model). Rejection data for 67 nonionic organic compounds and an NF membrane at five solvent fluxes (10–120 L m −2 h −1 ) were generated and used for model development and validation. In order to select the best statistical method to develop QSPRs, several models were developed using multiple linear regression (MLR), partial least squares (PLS), and artificial neural network (ANN) with molecular descriptors selected by different methods (i.e., filtering, hybrid, and wrapper methods). The most effective linear and nonlinear models were developed using PLS and ANN with molecular descriptors selected by variable importance plot and feed forward selection. The rejection of nonionic compounds with minimal solute-membrane affinity could be described by permeate flux, and a compound’s molecular depth and diffusion coefficient. Fitting parameters of Spiegler–Kedem model (reflection coefficient and permeability coefficient) could be best described by size parameters and diffusivity. These results indicate that the rejection of the majority of the nonionic organic compounds evaluated was mainly due to size exclusion. Generally, both QSPR methods developed during this study were found to be effective methods for predicting solute rejection by the nanofiltration membrane, and nonlinear models provided better fits (based on statistical parameters) of both training and validation rejection datasets.
Absorption of Riboflavin in Chickens

Abstract INTRODUCTION THE study reported below grew out of an interest at Pennsylvania State University during recent years in the metabolism of riboflavin in a strain of chickens which produces nonviable eggs. Cowan et al. (1961) in seeking an explanation for riboflavinuria in the mutant strain, investigated the effect of an estrogen on the concentration of free riboflavin in the blood of the mutants as compared to that in normal birds. Mature males, immature females, mature nonlaying females and laying females of both genotypes were used in the studies. The concentration of free riboflavin in the blood rose sharply in all normal birds when estradiol diproprionate was administered. In the mutant birds no change in concentration of riboflavin in blood was observed. Previously Common et al. (1947) investigated the influence of estrogen injections on the level of riboflavin in serum and certain other properties of blood and tissues in the domestic . . .
Leading from the Middle: Preparing Leaders for New Roles.

This chapter describes a multitude of leadership programs designed to provide administrators serving in the middle part of the organization with opportunities for new skill development and enhancement of existing skills.
Some Consequences of Herzberger’s Fundamental Optical Invariant

Herzberger’s fundamental optical invariant, specialized to rotationally symmetric optical systems, is treated as a system of partial differential equations. A general solution with a system of residual equations is obtained. This provides several factorizations of a jacobian matrix describing in a general way the object–image relationship. It is believed that this provides the most general description of the behavior of a lens under the general assumptions of geometrical optics.
The phototoxicity of photodynamic therapy may be suppressed or enhanced by modulation of the cutaneous vasculature.

In photodynamic therapy, the threshold for light induced toxicity depends on the drug concentration and the light dose. This study was aimed to show for vascular photosensitizers that the toxicity threshold on normal tissue may be predictably modified by modulation of the cutaneous vasculature. Albino rabbits were injected with 1.0 mg/kg of a vascular photosensitizer, benzoporphyrin derivative monoacid ring-A. The threshold light dose for toxicity to normal skin was determined at an absorption maximum of the drug (694 nm), 1 h after drug injection. The cutaneous vasculature was dilated by prior skin exposure to ultraviolet radiation or was constricted by iontophoretic application of epinephrine. Threshold toxicity was determined clinically and by assessing the effective concentration of hemoglobin in the skin by diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS). Tissue samples that received threshold doses were investigated with light and electron microscopy. The toxicity threshold increased by 3.2+/-0.9 (mean+/-S.D.) following vasoconstriction and decreased by 3.6+/-0.8 following vasodilation, compared to control sites. Light and electron microscopy showed similar findings at threshold for both vasodilated and vasoconstricted sites. Therefore vascular modulation may be used to predictably enhance or suppress the level of phototoxicity of normal skin.
ALEX an expert system for truck loading

An expert system has been built that plans the loading of boxed products into semi-trailer trucks. The system seeks to optimize the volumetric utilization of a trailer while minimizing the likelihood of damage to the products while in transit. It is currently operating in both interactive and batch modes in the production data processing environment of a large manufacturer of household appliances. This paper describes and compares the methods of expert loaders and the expert system, as well as general information about the implementation.
Effect of platelet-derived growth factor on the development and persistence of asbestos-induced fibroproliferative lung disease

Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) isoforms and PDGF receptor-alpha are upregulated in fibroproliferative lesions in response to asbestos exposure. To examine the functional role of PDGF in asbestos-induced lung disease, we have evaluated the impact of PDGF-B overexpression in the lung on the development of pulmonary fibrosis induced by asbestos inhalation. Transgenic mice expressing PDGF-B from the surfactant protein C promoter and wild-type C57BL/6 mice were exposed to aerosolized chrysotile asbestos fibers via three different exposure regimens: 3 consecutive days to 9 mg/m(3), once a week for 5 weeks to 12 mg/m(3), or once a week for 8 weeks to 11 mg/m(3). The 3-day exposure did not produce fibroproliferative lesions in SPC-PDGFB or wild-type mice, indicating that PDGF expression did not increase susceptibility to a subthreshold dose of asbestos. Transgenic and wild-type mice subjected to the 5-week exposure protocol exhibited similar fibrogenic lesions histologically 48 hours and 8 weeks postexposure, but lungs from transgenic mice had elevated lung hydroxyproline content 8 weeks postexposure relative to wild-type mice. In addition, SPC-PDGFB transgenic mice developed pronounced thickening of arterioles following the 5-week exposure regimen. Mice exposed to asbestos for 8 weeks and examined 10 months later showed pronounced, diffuse fibrotic lesions of terminal bronchioles and alveolar ducts, but no histological differences between transgenic and nontransgenic mice were observed. These results indicated that PDGF-B overexpression can stimulate increased collagen deposition and vascular smooth muscle hyperplasia following asbestos inhalation and that a limited exposure (8 times) to chrysotile aerosol can produce long-lasting fibrotic lesions. The 8-week exposure regimen provides an animal model that encompasses an important aspect of human asbestosis-i.e., persistence of fibrosis for long periods after cessation of asbestos exposure.
Cytotoxic effects of aggregated nanomaterials

This study deals with cytotoxicity assays performed on an array of commercially manufactured inorganic nanoparticulate materials, including Ag, TiO(2), Fe(2)O(3), Al(2)O(3), ZrO(2), Si(3)N(4), naturally occurring mineral chrysotile asbestos and carbonaceous nanoparticulate materials such as multiwall carbon nanotube aggregates and black carbon aggregates. The nanomaterials were characterized by TEM, as the primary particles, aggregates or long fiber dimensions ranged from 2nm to 20microm. Cytotoxicological assays of these nanomaterials were performed utilizing a murine alveolar macrophage cell line and human macrophage and epithelial lung cell lines as comparators. The nanoparticulate materials exhibited varying degrees of cytoxicity for all cell lines and the general trends were similar for both the murine and human macrophage cell lines. These findings suggest that representative cytotoxic responses for humans might be obtained by nanoparticulate exposures to simple murine macrophage cell line assays. Moreover, these results illustrate the utility in performing rapid in vitro assays for cytotoxicity assessments of nanoparticulate materials as a general inquiry of potential respiratory health risks in humans.
So-called eosinophilic granuloma of the ribs and jaws associated with visceral (pulmonary) involvement characteristic of xanthomatosis.

Abstract This report is based on a case of so-called eosinophilic granuloma of bone and visceral involvement characteristic of xanthomatosis. The skeletal manifestations consisted of involvement of two ribs, the maxilla, and the mandible. The dental manifestations were characterized by rapid destruction of the alveolar process without gross evidence of an inflammatory reaction. The lesions were well localized. The portion of the alveolar process supporting the teeth can be destroyed in three months by this disease. The pulmonary lesions consisted of extensive infiltration of both upper lobes and resembled the pulmonary lesions seen in cases of xanthomatosis. The findings in this case constitute additional evidence that eosinophilic granuloma of bone may be associated with, or may be a type of, xanthomatosis. Microscopic diagnosis is difficult in cases in which only a few eosinophiles are present. In the case which we have reported, a definite microscopic diagnosis was not established until biopsy had been performed four times in a period of twenty-one months. The additional finding of so-called foam cells containing lipoid material adds further support to the opinion that eosinophilic granuloma of bone is not a separate entity but a type of xanthomatosis.
Cooperative phenomena in vortex motion in thin granular superconducting films

Interaction between magnetic vortices may result in strong thermo-galvano-magnetic effects in thin superconducting films, whose thickness is much smaller than London penetration length. In particular, the Nernst coefficient acquires a contribution compared to that observed in semiconductors. The non-equilibrium vortex-antivortex pair production by some external currents anticipated to occur easily in granular films may lead to the same order of magnitude for the transverse voltage as provided by the Nernst effect. External microwave radiation absorbed inhomogeneously and resulting in a gradient of normal excitations along the film should cause the vortices motion and, consequently, the dc-voltage across the film. These strong effects are to be observed within the range of parameters where the Charged 2D Coulomb Gas Model is still valid. The connection of the results with the experiments of Gerber and Deutcher is discussed. The authors suggest to employ the effect of photoinducing the vortices motion in thin superconducting films to detect weak microwave radiation.
Imaging of Coronal Mass Ejections by the Helios Spacecraft

The zodiacal light photometers on board the HELIOS spacecraft can be used to form images of coronal mass ejections in the interplanetary medium. Several aspects of these data are unique: they trace coronal mass ejections using Thomson scattering techniques to distances from the Sun greater than 0.5 AU; their perspective from the HELIOS orbits allow information to be gained about the three-dimensional shapes of specific mass ejections viewed both by coronagraphs and HELIOS; the global view afforded by the spacecrafts photometers can image the mass ejection from within and thus relate in situ measurements to the shape of the whole structure. To date, the HELIOS photometers have been used to study coronagraph-observed mass ejections including those which originate at the Sun on 7 May, 24 May, and 27 November, 1979, and 21 May, 18 June, 29 June, and 6 November, 1980. Masses of ejections determined from these data are generally a few times larger than masses determined from SOLWIND coronagraph images.
Effects on Trichinella spiralis of host responses to purified antigens

Purification of two antigens (48-kilodalton polypeptide and a group with major subunits of 50 and 55 kilodaltons) from the infective larvae of the parasitic nematode Trichinella spiralis was recently reported. Immunization of mice with either of these antigens induces strong resistance to a subsequent challenge infection. In the study reported here the mechanism of this resistance was investigated by monitoring the parasite9s life cycle in mice immunized with the antigens. Immunized mice were able to expel intestinal adult worms and to inhibit the fecundity of adult female worms at an accelerated rate compared to control mice. Accelerated expulsion and inhibition of fecundity may account entirely for the level of resistance induced by immunization. Although the effects of the immune response apparently are exerted on adult worms, the target antigens are expressed only by developing larvae. This suggests that immune effector mechanisms act on intestinal larvae in such a way that they develop into defective adults.
Reconciliation of process data using other projection matrices

Two other projection matrices, used in the solution of data reconciliation problems, are described in this short note. The first matrix projection introduced is straightforward to compute, is idempotent and can be easily updated when a measurement is deleted or removed from the problem. The second projection matrix, while although being more numerically intensive in its computation than the first, may prove superior when ill-behaved or ill-conditioned systems are reconciled given that it employs the very numerically stable singular value decomposition. Two small examples, one non-linear and the other linear, are presented which demonstrate the use of the new projection matrices and serve as a comparison to the well-known matrix projection of Crowe, Garcia, & Hrymak (1983).
CD24 Expression on T Cells Is Required for Optimal T Cell Proliferation in Lymphopenic Host

It is well established that T lymphocytes undergo homeostatic proliferation in lymphopenic environment. The homeostatic proliferation requires recognition of the major histocompatibility complex on the host. Recent studies have demonstrated that costimulation-mediated CD28, 4-1BB, and CD40 is not required for T cell homeostatic proliferation. It has been suggested that homeostatic proliferation is costimulation independent. Here, we report that T cells from mice with a targeted mutation of CD24 have a remarkably reduced rate of proliferation when adoptively transferred into syngeneic lymphopenic hosts. The reduced proliferation cannot be attributed to abnormal survival and homing properties of the CD24-deficient T cells. T cell proliferation in allogeneic hosts is less affected by this mutation. These results demonstrate a novel function of CD24 expressed on T cells. Thus, although distinct costimulatory molecules are involved in antigen-driven proliferation and homeostatic proliferation, both processes can be modulated by costimulatory molecules.
Evaluation of Patellar Shape in the Sagittal Plane A Clinical Analysis

A prospective study of 564 patients was performed to assess the correlation between patellar shape as seen on a lateral radiograph and 1) patellar pain and 2) the radiologic determination of patellar height. A classification of patellar shape was developed based on the ratio of the patellar length to the length of the articular surface. Three classification types were established, including the "long-nosed," "Cyrano" type. Patients were placed into one of two groups based on the presence or absence of patellar pain. Lateral radiographs were evaluated for patellar height using two published indices. A significantly larger portion of Type II and Type III patellae was found in patients with patellar pain. Moreover, accepted measures of patellar height have to be used with caution in the presence of unusual patellar shapes.
Successful prevention of extremely frequent and severe food anaphylaxis in three children by combined traditional Chinese medicine therapy.

Despite strict avoidance, severely food-allergic children experience frequent and potentially severe food-induced anaphylaxis (FSFA). There are no accepted preventive interventions for FSFA. A Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formula prevents anaphylaxis in murine food allergy models, and has immunomodulatory effects in humans. We analyzed the effects of TCM treatment on three pediatric patients with FSFA. Three FSFA patients (P) ages 9–16 years (P1 allergic to milk; P2 and P3 to tree nuts) qualified for case analysis. All experienced numerous reactions requiring administration of rescue medications and emergency room (ER) visits during the 2 years prior to starting TCM. P1 experienced approximately 100 reactions, 50 epinephrine administrations, 40 ER visits, and 3 admissions to intensive care units. P2 experienced 30 reactions, all requiring epinephrine administration, as well as 10 emergency hospitalizations. P3 experienced 400 reactions, five of which required epinephrine administration and ER visits. TCM treatment markedly reduced or eliminated reactions in all. P1 experienced no reactions after 2.5 years of TCM. P2 experienced no reactions after 1 year of TCM treatment, at which time she passed an oral almond food challenge. She continues to be reaction-free 6 months off TCM while consuming nuts. P3 has achieved a 94% reduction in reaction frequency following 7 months of TCM, has discontinued daily antihistamine use, and has required no epinephrine administrations or ER visits. Three children treated with TCM experienced dramatic reductions or elimination of FSFA. This regimen appears to present a potential option for FSFA, and warrants further investigation in controlled clinical studies.
A SMEAR TECHNIC FOR THE CUCURBITACEAE

It is very difficult to make satisfactory smear preparations of species in the Cucurbitaceae by ordinary methods because, (a) the differentiation between chromosomes and cytoplasm is poor, (b) the pollen mother cells are held together in tissue-like masses, (c) the chromosomes are comparatively small and numerous. Special procedures have been devised to overcome these difficulties. Staminate buds selected at the proper stage of maturity are fixed for a period of 12 to 24 hours in a mixture composed of 3 parts of 100% ethyl alcohol and 1 part acetocarmine to which a small quantity of iron acetate has been added. After prefixation the material is rinsed in several changes of 100% alcohol. It can then be transferred directly to the slide for smearing, or hydrated to 70% alcohol for storage. For smearing the anthers are dissected out, the extraneous flower parts discarded, and the storage fluid removed. A drop of acetocarmine diluted to one-half strength with 45% glacial acetic acid is added, and the anthers ...
Intracellular PAF catabolism by PAF acetylhydrolase counteracts continual PAF synthesis

Stimulated inflammatory cells synthesize platelet-activating factor (PAF), but lysates of these cells show little enhancement in PAF synthase activity. We show that human neutrophils contain intracellular plasma PAF acetylhydrolase (PLA2G7), an enzyme normally secreted by monocytes. The esterase inhibitors methyl arachidonoylfluorophosphonate (MAFP), its linoleoyl homolog, and Pefabloc inhibit plasma PAF acetylhydrolase. All of these inhibitors induced PAF accumulation by quiescent neutrophils and monocytes that was equivalent to agonist stimulation. Agonist stimulation after esterase inhibition did not further increase PAF accumulation. PAF acetylhydrolase activity in intact neutrophils was reduced, but not abolished, by agonist stimulation. Erythrocytes, which do not participate in the acute inflammatory response, inexplicably express the type I PAF acetylhydrolase, whose only known substrate is PAF. Inhibition of this enzyme by MAFP caused PAF accumulation by erythrocytes, which was hemolytic in the absence of PAF acetylhydrolase activity. We propose that PAF is continuously synthesized by a nonselective acyltransferase activity(ies) found even in noninflammatory cells as a component of membrane remodeling, which is then selectively and continually degraded by intracellular PAF acetylhydrolase activity to modulate PAF production.
Removal of Submicron Silica Particles from tert-Amyl Alcohol by Dielectric/Electric Packed Bed Filtration

Abstract A packed bed with an applied electric field is used to remove submicron and nanometer particles from a nonconducting or slightly conducting solution. Several studies have shown that the application of an electric field to a packed bed significantly increases the performance of the filtration. To enhance the electric-field filtration efficiency, it is desired that the packing materials have a higher dielectric constant than the solution so that the electric-field lines will be diverted into the packing materials. In the present studies, a dc voltage of 0 to 8 kV/cm is applied to a packed bed (2.5-cm diameter and 3.0-cm length) filled with 1-mm-diameter glass beads. The filtration medium contains submicrometer or nanometer SiO2 particles dispersed in tert-amyl alcohol. Two particle sizes are investigated: the average particle sizes are about 300 nm and 50 nm, respectively. Visible light spectrophotometry is used to estimate the amount of SiO2 particles in the effluent. The experimental results are ...
Evaluation of microstructure and superplasticity in friction stir processed 5083 Al alloy

Friction stir processing (FSP) has been developed as a potential grain refinement technique. In the current study, a commercial 5083 Al alloy was friction stir processed with three combinations of FSP parameters. Fine-grained microstructures with average grain sizes of 3.5–8.5 μm were obtained. Tensile tests revealed that the maximum ductility of 590% was achieved at a strain rate of 3 × 10−3 s−1 and 530 °C in the 6.5-μm grain size FSP material, whereas for the material with 8.5-μm grain size, maximum ductility of 575% was achieved at a strain rate of 3 × 10-4 s−1 and 490 °C. The deformation mechanisms for both the materials were grain boundary sliding (m ~0.5). However, the 3.5-μm grain size material showed maximum ductility of 315% at 10-2 s−1 and 430 °C. The flow mechanism was solute-drag dislocation glide (m ~0.33). This study indicated that establishing a processing window is crucial for obtaining optimized microstructure for optimum superplasticity.
Synthesis and analysis of shaped ADE reflectors by ray tracing

Axially displaced elliptical (ADE) reflectors have been used frequently in satellite communications due to their potential for high performance. The main advantages of the ADE configuration include high illumination efficiency and low subreflector blockage loss. Furthermore, shaping techniques can be applied to the ADE reflectors to optimize the antenna efficiency and/or to minimize the sidelobe levels. The sidelobe level reduction can be achieved by minimizing the spillover and edge diffraction, as well as by controlling aperture distribution. This paper discusses key issues related to the synthesis and analysis of shaped ADE reflectors.
STEREOSPECIFIC HYDROGENATIONS USING PALLADIUM-ON-SILICA GEL CATALYSTS.

Studies have been conducted on the stereospecific nature of catalysts prepared by depositing palladium upon silica gels which have been precipitated in the presence of optically active alkaloids. So far, only the gels formed in the presence of the cinchona alkaloids have proved to be active as carriers for asymmetric catalysts. The substrate for this work was α -methylcinnamic acid affording a slight excess of (+)-dihydro- α -methylcinnamic acid on reduction. Details of the preparation of the carriers and catalysts and studies made on their stereoselective properties are given.