cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Dual anti-OX40/IL-2 therapy augments tumor immunotherapy via IL-2R-mediated regulation of OX40 expression.

The provision of T cell co-stimulation via members of the TNFR super-family, including OX40 (CD134) and 4-1BB (CD137), provides critical signals that promote T cell survival and differentiation. Recent studies have demonstrated that ligation of OX40 can augment T cell-mediated anti-tumor immunity in pre-clinical models and more importantly, OX40 agonists are under clinical development for cancer immunotherapy. OX40 is of particular interest as a therapeutic target as it is not expressed on naive T cells but rather, is transiently up-regulated following TCR stimulation. Although TCR engagement is necessary for inducing OX40 expression, the downstream signals that regulate OX40 itself remain unclear. In this study, we demonstrate that OX40 expression is regulated through a TCR and common gamma chain cytokine-dependent signaling cascade that requires JAK3-mediated activation of the downstream transcription factors STAT3 and STAT5. Furthermore, combined treatment with an agonist anti-OX40 mAb and IL-2 augmented tumor immunotherapy against multiple tumor types. Dual therapy was also able to restore the function of anergic tumor-reactive CD8 T cells in mice with long-term well-established (>5 wks) tumors, leading to increased survival of the tumor-bearing hosts. Together, these data reveal the ability of TCR/common gamma chain cytokine signaling to regulate OX40 expression and demonstrate a novel means of augmenting cancer immunotherapy by providing dual anti-OX40/common gamma chain cytokine-directed therapy.
Seminal Antigens: Their Alteration in the Genital Tract of Female Rabbits and During Partial In Vitro Capacitation with Beta Amylase and Beta Glucuronidase

By use of immunofiuorescence with antisera to sperm-specific and sperm-coating antigens, it was observed that rabbit sperm residing in the uterus for 10 h lost sperm-coating antigens. This loss resulted in the unmasking of sperm-specific acrosomal antigenic sites. Sperm recovered from the fallopian tubes of estrualrabbits showed more (P < 0.01) of thisalterationthan sperm from the uterus. The environment in an estral uterus was more efficient in removing sperm-coating antigens, especially from the region of the postnuclear cap, than that in a pseudopregnant uterus. In vitro incubation of rabbit sperm in a solution containing 0.1 mg or 1 mg /3-glucuronidase per 100 ml for 6 h or 1 mg 13-amylase per 100 ml for 8 h, partially mimicked the effect of an estral uterus on removal of sperm-coating antigens and on sperm capacitation. Partial in vitro capacitation was achieved by use of either �3-amylase or il-glucuronidase. It was concluded that steps leading to full capacitation could be initiated in the buffer alone; they were speeded up with the in vitro enzyme treatments, and were finally completed in the female.
Computing Thin Film Mechanical Properties With the Oliver and Pharr Method

A commonly used technique to compute mechanical properties from indentation tests is the Oliver and Pharr method. Using dimensional analysis and finite element modeling, this paper investigates errors when the Oliver and Pharr method is used to compute thin film properties.
Memory-based and disk-based algorithms for very high degree permutation groups

Group membership is a fundamental algorithm, upon which most other algorithms of computational group theory depend. Until now, group membership for permutation groups has been limited to ten million points or less. We extend the applicability of group membership algorithms to permutation groups acting on more than 100,000,000 points. As an example, we experimentally construct a group membership data structure for Thompson's group, acting on 143,127,000 points, in 36 minutes. More significantly, we require approximately 10 GB of RAM for the computation --- even though a single permutation of Thompson's group already requires half a gigabyte of storage.In addition, we propose a disk-based group membership algorithm with the promise of extending group membership to well over one billion (1,000,000,000) points. Such a disk-based algorithm has formerly been impossible, due in part to the lack of a practical disk-based algorithm for multiplying and taking inverses of such large permutations. Random access to disk is prohibitively expensive. We demonstrate the first practical disk-based implementation of the basic permutation operations. We also propose a disk-based architecture for group membership data structures.
Automated nodule location and size estimation using a multi-scale laplacian of Gaussian filtering approach

Estimation of nodule location and size is an important pre-processing step in some nodule segmentation algorithms to determine the size and location of the region of interest. Ideally, such estimation methods will consistently find the same nodule location irregardless of where the the seed point (provided either manually or by a nodule detection algorithm) is placed relative to the “true” center of the nodule, and the size should be a reasonable estimate of the true nodule size. We developed a method that estimates nodule location and size using multi-scale Laplacian of Gaussian (LoG) filtering. Nodule candidates near a given seed point are found by searching for blob-like regions with high filter response. The candidates are then pruned according to filter response and location, and the remaining candidates are sorted by size and the largest candidate selected. This method was compared to a previously published template-based method. The methods were evaluated on the basis of stability of the estimated nodule location to changes in the initial seed point and how well the size estimates agreed with volumes determined by a semi-automated nodule segmentation method. The LoG method exhibited better stability to changes in the seed point, with 93% of nodules having the same estimated location even when the seed point was altered, compared to only 52% of nodules for the template-based method. Both methods also showed good agreement with sizes determined by a nodule segmentation method, with an average relative size difference of 5% and −5% for the LoG and template-based methods respectively.
Inductive learning in a mixed paradigm setting

In a precedent-bused domain one appeals to previous cases to support a solution, decision, explanation, or an argument. Experts typically use care in choosing cases in precedent-based domains, and apply such criteria as case relevance, prototypicality, and importance. In domains where both cases and rules are used, experts use an additional case selection criterion: the generalizations that a particular group of cases support. Domain experts use their knowledge of cases to forge the rules learned from those cases. In this paper, we explore inductive learning in a "mixed paradigm" setting, where both rule-based and case-based reasoning methods are used. In particular, we consider how the techniques of casebased reasoning in an adversarial, precedent-based domain can be used to aid a decision-tree based classification algorithm for (1) training set selection, (2) branching feature choice, and (3) induction policy preference and deliberate exploitation of inductive bias. We focus on how precedentbased argumentation may inform the selection of training examples used to build classification trees. The resulting decision trees may then be reexpressed as rules and incorporated into the mixed paradigm system. We discuss the heuristic control problems involved in incorporating an inductive learner into CABARET, a mixed paradigm reasoner. Finally, we present an empirical study in a legal domain of the classification trees generated by various training sets constructed by a case-based reasoning module.
Design of a high field stress, velvet cathode for the Flash X-Ray (FXR) induction accelerator

A new cathode design has been proposed for the flash X-ray (FXR) induction linear accelerator with the goal of lowering the beam emittance. The original design uses a conventional Pierce geometry and applies a peak field of 134 kV/cm (no beam) to the velvet emission surface. Voltage/current measurements indicate that the velvet begins emitting near this peak field value and images of the cathode show a very non-uniform distribution of plasma light. The new design has a flat cathode/shroud profile that allows for a peak field stress of 230 kV/cm on the velvet. The emission area is reduced by about a factor of four to generate the same total current due to the greater field stress. The relatively fast acceleration of the beam, approximately 2.5 MeV in 10 cm, reduces space charge forces that tend to hollow the beam for a flat, non-Pierce geometry. The higher field stress achieved with the same rise time is expected to lead to an earlier and more uniform plasma formation over the velvet surface. Simulations and initial testing are presented.
Mechanisms of eye-specific visual circuit development

Eye-specific visual connections are a prominent model system for exploring how precise circuits develop in the CNS and, in particular, for addressing the role of neural activity in synapse elimination and axon refinement. Recent experiments have identified the features of spontaneous retinal activity that mediate eye-specific retinogeniculate segregation, the synaptic events associated with this process, and the importance of axon guidance cues for organizing the overall layout of eye-specific maps. The classic model of ocular dominance column development, in which spontaneous retinal activity plays a crucial role, has also gained new support. Although many outstanding questions remain, the mechanisms that instruct eye-specific circuit development are becoming clear.
The ecology of illusion: Anthropological foraging in the Kalahari

Richard B. Lee (1979), The !Kung San: Men, Women, and Work in a Foraging Society. Cambridge, London, New York: Cambridge University Press. 1–526. $42.50 hardcover; $11.95 paper. Lorna Marshall (1976), The !Kung of Nyae Nyae. Cambridge (Massachusetts), London: Harvard University Press. 1–433. $20.00. George B. Silberbauer (1981), Hunter and Habitat in the Central Kalahari Desert. Cambridge, London, New York: Cambridge University Press. 1–330. $39.50 hardcover; $14.95 paper. Jiro Tanaka (David W. Hughes, trs.) (1980), The San, Hunter‐gatherers of the Kalahari: A Study in Ecological Anthropology. Tokyo: University of Tokyo Press; 1–200. $18.50.
Lattice simulations and infrared conformality

We examine several recent lattice-simulation data sets, asking whether they are consistent with infrared conformality. We observe, in particular, that for an SU(3) gauge theory with 12 Dirac fermions in the fundamental representation, recent simulation data can be described assuming infrared conformality. Lattice simulations include a fermion mass m which is then extrapolated to zero, and we note that this data can be fit by a small-m expansion, allowing a controlled extrapolation. We also note that the conformal hypothesis does not work well for two theories that are known or expected to be confining and chirally broken, and that it does work well for another theory expected to be infrared conformal.
Dynamic Treatment Regimes

A dynamic treatment regime consists of a sequence of decision rules, one per stage of intervention, that dictate how to individualize treatments to patients, based on evolving treatment and covariate history. These regimes are particularly useful for managing chronic disorders and fit well into the larger paradigm of personalized medicine. They provide one way to operationalize a clinical decision support system. Statistics plays a key role in the construction of evidence-based dynamic treatment regimes—informing the best study design as well as efficient estimation and valid inference. Owing to the many novel methodological challenges this area offers, it has been growing in popularity among statisticians in recent years. In this article, we review the key developments in this exciting field of research. In particular, we discuss the sequential multiple assignment randomized trial designs, estimation techniques like Q-learning and marginal structural models, and several inference techniques designed to a...
Systematic Review: Transient Left Ventricular Apical Ballooning: A Syndrome That Mimics ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

The transient left ventricular apical ballooning syndrome, also known as takotsubo cardiomyopathy, is characterized by transient wall-motion abnormalities involving the left ventricular apex and mid-ventricle in the absence of obstructive epicardial coronary disease. In this paper, we review case series that report on patients with the transient left ventricular apical ballooning syndrome to better characterize patients presenting with the syndrome. We identified 7 case series that reported on at least 5 consecutive patients with the transient left ventricular apical ballooning syndrome. The syndrome more often affects postmenopausal women (82% to 100%) (mean age, 62 to 75 years). Patients commonly present with ST-segment elevation in the precordial leads, chest pain, relatively minor elevation of cardiac enzyme and biomarker levels, and transient apical systolic left ventricular dysfunction despite the absence of obstructive epicardial coronary disease. An episode of emotional or physiologic stress frequently precedes presentation with the syndrome. The in-hospital mortality rate seems to be low, as does the risk for recurrence.
Theoretical performance of a GPS linked Pulsed Ring Down Array

Current research at Texas Tech University is focused on the development of a High-Power Pulsed Ring-Down Source (PRDS) Antenna Array. Previously, a Monte Carlo based analysis was conducted in order to predict the array performance based upon the estimated switching jitter between elements [1]. This analysis showed good performance for jitter times between 0 to 2 periods of the ringing frequency. Therefore, for ringing frequencies up to 500 MHz, jitter times up to 4 nanoseconds can be tolerated. Subsequently, we have shown practical switching solutions capable of the sub-nanosecond switching performance needed for the frequencies of interest [2]. Taking the analysis a step further, we introduce the uncertainty of the absolute position of each antenna element. To implement a randomly distributed array, where the position of elements is not fixed, a method of accurately resolving element positions relative to each other and the target location is required. The use of a variety of GPS technologies and techniques is explored as a method for position and timing resolution. The relative accuracy between elements and the absolute accuracy of each element is discussed. A Monte Carlo based analysis is conducted to predict array performance based upon GPS positional error, GPS timing error, and switch jitter.
Active trapping of individual particles on an optofluidic analysis platform

A feedback-based opto-electrical trap is demonstrated on a fully planar optofluidic analysis platform. The trap permits the prolonged observation of single fluorescent objects ranging from bacteria to nanoparticles in an optofluidic setting.
Why Question Established Practice

An Evaluation of Vasopressor Therapy for Maternal Hypo - tension during Spinal Anesthesia. By James FM III, Griess FC, Kemp RA. Anesthesiology 1970; 33:25-34. Abstract reprinted with permission from Wolters Kluwer Health.† Abstract: During hypotension resulting from conduc - tion anesthesia in gravid ewes, uterine blood flow (UBF) decreased roughly in proportion to the decrease in maternal blood pressure. Ephedrine or mephentermine significantly increased UBF over that accomplished by metaraminol. Presumably, the preferential effects of these agents were the result of increased cardiac output owing to inotropic and chronotropic actions. However, UBF never exceeded 90% of prespinal levels with any vasoactive agent, and, for a given maternal system, the UBF response was variable, generally increasing but frequently remaining constant or decreasing. For these reasons, all other methods of com - bating hypotension should be used initially. If vasopressors are still required, agents of choice are those whose princi - pal mode of action lies in cardiac stimulation rather than peripheral vasoconstriction.
Analysis of primary and secondary current distributions in a wedge-type aluminum-air cell

The primary and secondary current distributions near the leading edges of the cathode and anode of a wedge-type aluminum-air cell design were analyzed. Numerical calculations were accomplished by using a finite difference method and introducing an overlapping two-grid system technique. The calculations indicate that the current distributions on the cathode and anode at distances from the edges greater than 2 times the cell gap are uniform. In the edge region, the wedge angle between 0 and 10° has a negligible effect on the current distribution. High current densities at the cathode edge, which are detrimental to cathode life, are reduced by kinetic effects and by oversizing the cathode itself. The latter also favors cell performance but adds to the cell costs. An effectiveness factor is introduced which demonstrates the effectiveness of cathode oversize and the sensitivity to kinetics as represented by the Wagner number. The calculations indicate that only marginal performance gains can be expected when the cathode extends beyond the anode a distance greater than that of 1.5 times the amode-cathode gap.
First-order hyperbolic form of velocity-stress equations for waves in elastic solids with hexagonal symmetry

This paper reports a theoretical framework to analyze wave propagation in elastic solids of hexagonal symmetry. The governing equations include the equations of motions and partial differentiation of elastic constitutive relations with respect to time. The result is a set of nine, first-order, fully-coupled, hyperbolic partial differential equations with velocities and stress components as the unknowns. The equation set is then cast into a vector form with three 9 × 9 coefficient (or Jacobian) matrices. Physics of wave propagation are fully described by the eigen structure of these matrices. In particular, the eigenvalues of the Jacobian matrices are the wave speeds and a part of the left eigenvectors represents the wave polarization. Without invoking the plane wave solution and the Christoffel equation, two- and three-dimensional slowness profiles can be calculated. As an example, slowness profiles of a cadmium sulfide crystal are presented.
The Use of Theory-Based Computer-Assisted Instruction in Correctional Centers To Enhance the Reading Skills of Reading-Disadvantaged Adults

The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of theory-based CAI for reading with incarcerated adults reading below the ninth grade level. The participants were offenders drawn from participating correctional centers in Oklahoma who were randomly assigned to a CAI or a non-CAI instructional group. Reading assessment instruments were administered on a pre-test/post-test basis. Results showed a significant reading achievement gain for computer-assisted reading instruction when compared to traditional instruction for entry levels of 0–3.0 Grade Equivalency Level (GEL). Higher entry levels showed approximately the same gain for both groups. These findings are consistent with a cognitive components model of reading.
Commentaries on Computer-based Language Assessment

The rapid change and use of computer technology has had a profound influence in the field of language teaching and assessment, and the changes that computer and technology has brought to language assessment inparticular are not only inthe delivery method, but alsoin the scoring systems (Chapelle & Douglas, 2006). For instance, awide varietyof tasks be given as a test online worldwide, andscores canbe available immediatelyto the test takers. However, along with such advances come potential problems and concerns.
Means of self-preservation: how an intrinsically disordered ubiquitin-protein ligase averts self-destruction

Ubiquitin-protein ligases (E3s) that ubiquitinate substrates for proteasomal degradation are often in the position of ubiquitinating themselves due to interactions with a charged ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme (E2). This can mediate the E3's proteasomal degradation. Many E3s have evolved means to avoid autoubiquitination, including protection by partner or substrate binding, preventative modifications, and deubiquitinating enzyme reversal of ubiquitination. Here we describe another adaptation for E3 self-protection discovered while exploring San1, which ubiquitinates misfolded nuclear proteins in yeast for proteasomal degradation. San1 is highly disordered in its substrate-binding regions N- and C-terminal to its RING domain. In cis autoubiquitination could occur if these flexible regions come in proximity to the E2. San1 prevents this by containing no lysines in its disordered regions; thus the canonical residue used for ubiquitin attachment has been selectively eliminated. San1's target substrates have lost their native structures and expose hydrophobicity. To avoid in trans autoubiquitination, San1 possesses little concentrated hydrophobicity in its disordered regions, and thus the that feature San1 recognizes in misfolded substrates has also been selectively eliminated. Overall the presence of key residues in San1 have been evolutionarily minimized to avoid self-destruction either in cis or in trans. Our work expands the ways in which E3s protect themselves from autoubiquitination.
High-efficiency harmonically-terminated rectifier for wireless powering applications

In wireless powering, the rectifier efficiency has a large effect on overall system efficiency. This paper presents an approach to high-efficiency microwave rectifier design based on reduced conduction angle power amplifier theory. The analysis for an ideal rectifying device is derived to predict efficiency dependence on optimal dc load. A class-C 2.45 GHz Schottky-diode rectifier with short-circuit 2nd and 3rd harmonic terminations is designed using source-pull measurements, and demonstrates a maximum RF-DC conversion efficiency of 72.8% when matched to 50Ω. The approach is applied to integration of a rectifier with a dual-polarization patch antenna in a non 50Ω environment and free-space measurements demonstrate a lower bound on efficiency of 56% at 150 µW\cm2 power density which includes matching circuit and mismatch losses.
Penetration and replication of Edwardsiella spp. in HEp-2 cells.

Abstract The ability of 22 Edwardsiella strains to penetrate and replicate in cultured epithelial cells was initially evaluated by light microscopy methods and by the recovery of gentamicin-resistant (Gmr) bacteria from the Triton X-100 cell lysates of HEp-2-infected monolayers. Giemsa-stained HEp-2 cells revealed the presence of numerous internalized bacteria 3 h postinfection, often appearing as parallel rows of replicated bacteria within the cytosol and sometimes obliterating the cytoplasm because of the large numbers of bacilli present. Invasive bacteria were also sometimes found within cytoplasmic vacuoles in infected cells; thin-section electron micrographs of HEp-2-infected cells supported these conclusions. Results of light microscopy studies and cell lysate assays indicated that most Edwardsiella tarda (92%) and some Edwardsiella hoshinae strains were invasion positive on one or more occasions, while Edwardsiella ictaluri isolates were uniformly negative. HEp-2 invasion by E. tarda was a microfilament-dependent (cytochalasin B- and D-sensitive) process, with maximum numbers of Gmr CFU recorded between 3 and 6 h postinfection. The small percentage (0.01 to 1.0%) of the challenge inoculum recoverable as Gmr progeny 3 to 6 h postinfection was attributed to a strong cell-associated (not filterable) hemolysin that was produced by a majority (85%) of the E. tarda strains but not by E. ictaluri and only minimally by E. hoshinae. This cytolysin/hemolysin was responsible for the toxic effects observed in HEp-2 cells during the infection-replication process of edwardsiellae and appears to play a role in the release of internalized and replicated bacteria from infected cells. The results suggest an invasion strategy with some similarities to and differences from those of other recognized enteroinvasive pathogens.
Fully coupled thermomechanical finite element analysis of material evolution during friction-stir welding of AA5083

Interactions between the rotating and advancing pin-shaped tool (terminated at one end with a circular-cylindrical shoulder) with the clamped welding plates and the associated material and heat transport during a friction-stir welding (FSW) process are studied computa- tionally using a fully coupled thermomechanical finite element analysis. To surmount potential numerical problems associated with extensive mesh distortions/entanglement, an arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian (ALE) formulation was used, which enabled adaptive remeshing (to ensure the continuing presence of a high-quality mesh) while allowing full tracking of the material-free surfaces. To demonstrate the utility of the present computational approach, the analysis is applied to the case of FSW of AA5083 (a solid-solution strengthened and strain- hardened/stabilized Al-Mg wrought alloy). To account for the competition between plastic deformation-controlled strengthening and dynamic recrystallization-induced softening phe- nomena during the FSW process, the original Johnson-Cook strain and strain-rate hardening and temperature-softening material strength model is modified using the available recrystalli- zation kinetics experimental data. Lastly, the computational results obtained in the present work are compared with their experimental counterparts available in the open literature. This comparison revealed that general trends regarding spatial distribution and temporal evolutions of various material-state quantities and their dependence on the FSW process parameters are reasonably well predicted by the present computational approach.
Some New Thoughts on Conceptualizing Perceived Service Quality: A Hierarchical Approach:

Abstract Through qualitative and empirical research, the authors find that the service quality construct conforms to the structure of a third-order factor model that ties service quality perceptions to distinct and actionable dimensions: outcome, interaction, and environmental quality. In turn, each has three subdimensions that define the basis of service quality perceptions. The authors further suggest that for each of these subdimensions to contribute to improved service quality perceptions, the quality received by consumers must be perceived to be reliable, responsive, and empathetic. The authors test and support this conceptualization across four service industries. They consider the research and managerial implications of the study and its limitations.
Knowledge Is Power: Where Geopedologic Insights Are Necessary for Predictive Digital Soil Mapping

Much of current predictive digital soil mapping (PDSM) practice relies on terrain, climate, and remote sensing-derived covariates. These are easy to obtain and can serve as proxies to soil forming factors and from these to soil properties. However, mapping of soil bodies, not properties in isolation, is what gives insight into the soil landscape. A naive attempt at correlating environmental covariates from current terrain, vegetation density, and surrogates for climate will not succeed in the presence of unmapped variations in parent material, soil bodies, and landforms inherited from past environments. Geopedology integrates an understanding of the geomorphic conditions under which soils evolve with field observations. Examples where simplistic DSM would fail but geopedology would succeed in mapping and, even better, explaining the soil distribution are shown: exhumed paleosols, low-relief depositional environments, and recent post-glacial landscapes.
Topology, Superspace, and Anomalies

In the first part of this chapter, I would like to discuss a topological approach to heterotic superdiffeomorphic and Lorentz anomalies developed in collaboration with J. Louis and R. Garreis [1]. This work is carried out using the superfield formulation of (1, 0) supergravity [2] and, hence, world-sheet supersymmetry is manifest. Although topology, and in particular cohomology, have been successfully applied [3] to the study of anomalies involving component fields, previous attempts to apply cohomology to superspace [4] were beset with difficulties. These difficulties arose, primarily, from the lack of a Stokes theorem for superspace. However, it was shown in Ref. 1 that for (1, 0) superspace there is a modified notion of Stokes theorem which enables topological techniques to be employed. Using these techniques, a satisfactory superspace theory of gauge and gravitational anomalies can be developed. It is interesting to note that this modified notion of Stokes theorem is intimately related to the choice of torsion constraints [2] in (1, 0) superspace.
Escape from tumor dormancy and time to angiogenic switch as mitigated by tumor-induced stimulation of stroma.

Abstract A variety of mechanisms have been proposed to explain “cancer without disease”, the state of tumor dormancy, characterized by balance in cell proliferation and cell death within a tumor. Here we have investigated a theoretical construct, whereby one of such mechanisms, the time to induction of angiogenesis, or “angiogenic switch”, is mitigated by the degree of stromal stimulation by the tumor. We tested this hypothesis and its implications by introducing a mathematical model that captures how angiogenesis regulators, released from the platelet clot, contribute to formation of normal vasculature. We then modified the model to introduce tumor-induced increase in production of angiogenesis regulators and were able to simulate pathological angiogenesis. Through varying parameters governing the degree of tumor-induced stromal stimulation, we were able to qualitatively replicate experimentally observed growth curves for both dormant and actively growing tumors of breast cancer and liposarcoma. In fact, variation of very few parameters was sufficient to replicate any experimentally observed time to angiogenic switch in the available data. Finally, we investigated the effects of tighter binding isoforms of angiogenesis stimulators on neovasculature formation and tumor growth, which may provide an explanation for variations in angiogenesis -dependence in tumors of different tissue origin.
Athletes at High Altitude

Context:Athletes at different skill levels perform strenuous physical activity at high altitude for a variety of reasons. Multiple team and endurance events are held at high altitude and may place athletes at increased risk for developing acute high altitude illness (AHAI). Training at high altitude has been a routine part of preparation for some of the high level athletes for a long time. There is a general belief that altitude training improves athletic performance for competitive and recreational athletes.Evidence Acquisition:A review of relevant publications between 1980 and 2015 was completed using PubMed and Google Scholar.Study Design:Clinical review.Level of Evidence:Level 3.Results:AHAI is a relatively uncommon and potentially serious condition among travelers to altitudes above 2500 m. The broad term AHAI includes several syndromes such as acute mountain sickness (AMS), high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), and high altitude cerebral edema (HACE). Athletes may be at higher risk for developing AH...
Interaction of C60 with Tungsten: Modulation of Morphology and Electronic Structure on the Molecular Length Scale

The evolution of morphology and electronic structure in sequential depositions of W and C60 on graphite has been studied by scanning tunneling microscopy/spectroscopy. The deposition sequence decisively controls morphology expression. W deposited on a graphite surface forms small clusters whose morphology is consistent with the predictions of a liquid droplet model in the size regime below 5 nm in diameter; these small clusters then agglomerate without sintering. These agglomerates are immobilized by the subsequent C60 deposition. C60 shows very little interaction with the W-cluster agglomerates, and the formation of typical close packed fullerene islands is observed. The inverse deposition sequence, W deposition on the surface of C60 multilayer islands, leads simultaneously to the formation of ultrasmall W clusters (d < 2 nm) due to limited mobility on the highly corrugated surface, and the intercalation of W in the C60 matrix. The signature of intercalation is cessation of molecule rotation, which is re...
Does African American Race Impact Statin Efficacy in Renal Transplant Outcomes

There is a lack of studies assessing if race impacts the efficacy of 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA reductase (HMGCR) inhibitor ("statin") therapy on renal transplantation (RTx) outcomes. We examined the association between statin therapy and RTx outcomes, while concurrently quantifying the effect modification African American (AA) race has on statin efficacy.This was a retrospective longitudinal cohort study of solitary adult RTx (n = 1176) between June 2005 and May 2013. The Cox proportional hazard model was used to examine the impact of statin therapy on graft loss, death, and acute rejection and determine if significant interactions exist between statin therapy and race. Models were adjusted for demographics, socioeconomic status, cardiovascular history, medication use, and transplant characteristics.AAs (n = 624) and non-African Americans (n = 552) were equally likely to receive statin therapy (P = 0.922). Mean LDL and TGs in AA were 94 mg/dL and 133 mg/dL compared to 90 mg/dL and 163 mg/dL in non-AA, respectively. After adjusting for confounders, high statin users had 52% lower risk of developing graft loss (HR 0.48, 95% CI 0.29-0.80) and a nonstatistically significant reduction in death (HR 0.50, 95% CI 0.23-1.06) compared to low statin users. Acute rejection was not significantly influenced by statin use (HR 0.77 95% CI 0.46-1.27). There was a significant interaction between race and statin therapy for death (P = 0.007), but not for graft loss (P = 0.121) or rejection (P = 0.605). After stratifying by race, high statin use reduced the risk of death in AAs (HR 0.43, 95% CI 0.20-0.94), but not in non-AAs (HR 1.09, 95% CI 0.49-2.44).High statin use reduces the risk of graft loss in RTx, with a mortality benefit in AAs compared to non-AA, despite similar LDL levels. These results suggest a compelling reason to optimize statin therapy in renal transplant recipients (RTR), especially in AAs.
Serum Sialic Acid Levels in Experimental Anaplasmosis.

SummaryThe quantities of protein-bound and free serum sialic acid of calves experimentally infected with Anaplasma, a rickettsial parasite of erythrocytes of cattle, were ascertained at various phases of experimental infections. The percentage increase of free sialic acid in the sera of 4 calves, 2 of which were splenectomized, ranged between 25 and 150 while the bound sialic acid ranged from 6.3 and 41. In 2 splenectomized calves, the percentage increases of free sialic acid were 150 and 137 and the percentage increases of bound sialic acid were 41 and 15 respectively. In contrast, the percentage increases of free sialic acid in 2 nonsplenectomized calves were 25 and 46 and percentages of bound sialic acid in the same calves were 6.3 and 23 respectively. The percentage increase in free sialic acid was approximately the same regardless of the quantity of inoculum of infected blood, i.e., 5.0 ml or 220.0 ml, used. The maximal increase in free sialic acid occurred during the early invasive stage of the dise...
Hoary Bat the Victim of a Barbed Wire Fence

The barbed wire fence is occasionally a fatal obstacle to flying mammals. In May, 1933, Paul B. Johnson (Jour. Mamm., 14: 156) reported finding a …
Study of growth inhibitory effect of chemotherapeutic drugs combined with Delisheng on the pancreatic cancer cell line—JF305

Objective:To study the growth inhibitory effect of chemotherapeutic drugs combined with Delisheng on the pancreatic cancer cell line-JF305. Methods: Four chemotherapeutic drugs including 5-fluorouracil, epirubicin, mitomycin or cisplatin and Delisheng, were singly or combined used with varied concentration and exposed time(24,48,72h). Then the growth inhibitory effect of pancreatic cancer cell line SF305 was assayed by MTT . Results: The growth rate increase with the concentration of drug and /or the of exposed time( Concentration F=14309, P0.001;Time F=11726, P0.001). There was a significant between Delisheng combined with chemotherapeutic drugs and chemotherpeutic drugs(F=6524, P0.001).Conclusion: The chemotherapeutic efficiency of pancreatic carcinoma could be improved by increment of the local drug concentration and prolongation of the exposed time and combined with Chinese traditional medicine Delisheng.
Controlled-ventilation HRCT in diagnosis of small airway diseases in infants

Objective To assess the application value of controlled-ventilation high resolution CT(CV-HRCT) in diagnosis of small airway abnormalities in infants.Methods Totally 30 infants who were clinically suspected of small airway disease underwent CV-HRCT,and full inspiration and end exhalation images were acquired.Two radiologists reviewed all images for the presence or absence of bronchiectasis,bronchial wall thickening and air trapping through 4 anatomic levels from the CT scout images,including the upper margin of the aortic arch,the carina,the inferior margin of the left hilum,and the lower lobes between 2 cm above the top of the hemidiaphragm.Results There were significant differences in the detection of bronchiectasis and air trapping between expiratory phase and inspiratory phase(all P0.05),while no significant differences in the detection of bronchial wall thickening between expiratory phase and inspiratory phase was found(all P0.05).Conclusion CV-HRCT is helpful for detecting small air way diseases in infants.
Expression of murine coronavirus genes 1 and 7 is sufficient for viral RNA synthesis

The genome of mouse hepatitis virus (MHV) is known to contain eight or nine genes that are encoded by mRNAs 1, 2, 2–1, 3, 4, 5 (for both 5a and 5b), 6 and 7. The gene 2, 2–1, 4 and 5a products are not essential for MHV replication at least in tissue culture1-3. The 5′-most MHV gene, gene 1 most probably encodes virus RNA polymerase and proteases, the activities that are necessary for MHV RNA synthesis4. Gene 3 encodes S protein which is responsible for binding to cellular receptor5 and for induction of cell fusion6. MHV 5b protein is present as a virus structural protein7. Gene 6 encodes M protein which is believed to be essential for virus assembly. The most 3′ region of the MHV genome, gene 7, encodes the N protein. N protein binds to MHV genomic RNA forming a helical nucleocapsid. Anti-N antibody inhibits MHV RNA replication in vitro8, indicating that N protein is necessary for MHV RNA replication. Whether the remaining proteins, S , ns5b and M are necessary for MHV RNA is not known.
Adverse drug reactions: Part I.

Pharmacovigilance is the process of identifying, monitoring, and effectively reducing adverse drug reactions. Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are an important consideration when assessing a patient's health. The proliferation of new pharmaceuticals means that the incidence of ADRs is increasing. The goal for all health care providers must be to minimize the risk of ADRs as much as possible. Steps to achieve this include understanding the pharmacology for all drugs prescribed and proactively assessing and monitoring those patients at greatest risk for developing an ADR. Groups at greatest risk for developing ADRs include the elderly, children, and pregnant patients, as well as others. Pharmacovigilance must be effectively practiced by all health care providers in order to avoid ADRs.
Mechanically-coupled micromechanical resonator arrays for improved phase noise

Reductions in phase noise by more than 26 dB have been obtained over previous micromechanical resonator oscillators by replacing the single resonator normally used in such oscillators with a mechanically coupled array of them to effectively raise the power handling ability of the frequency selective tank by a factor equal to the number of resonators used in the array, and all with virtually no increase in volume or cost, given that all resonators are integrated onto a single die using batch processed MEMS technology. Specifically, a mechanically coupled array of ten 15.4-MHz 40/spl mu/m/spl times/10/spl mu/m/spl times/2/spl mu/m free-free beams embedded in a positive feedback loop with a single-ended to differential transimpedance sustaining amplifier achieves phase noise of -109 and -133 dBc/Hz at 1 kHz and far-from-carrier offset frequencies, respectively. When divided down to 10 MHz, these effectively correspond to -112 and -136 dBc/Hz, respectively, which represent more than 17 and 26 dB improvements over recently published work with clamped-clamped beam resonator oscillators.
Clustering subgaussian mixtures with k-means

We introduce a model-free, parameter-free relax-and-round algorithm for k-means clustering, based on a semidefinite programming relaxation (SDP) due to Peng and Wei [1]. The algorithm interprets the SDP output as a denoised version of the original data and then rounds this output to a hard clustering. We analyze the performance of this algorithm in the setting where the data is drawn from a subgaussian mixture model. We also study the fundamental limits of estimating subgaussian centers with k-means clustering in order to compare our approximation guarantee to the theoretically optimal k-means clustering solution. In particular, our guarantee has no dependence on the number of points, and for equidistant clusters with O(k) separation, our guarantee is optimal up to a factor of k.
Microvessel Remodeling in Cerebral Ischemia

The neurovascular (NV) unit, broadly defined as a segment of brain vasculature, is composed of functionally integrated cellular (including brain endothelial cells, astrocytes, pericytes, and smooth muscle cells) and acellular elements that form the basement membrane. Brain insults or conditions characterized by tissue hypoxia induce dramatic changes in the NV unit that include the disruption of interendothelial tight junctions, breakdown of the basal lamina, and endothelial proliferation, migration, and reorganization to form new capillaries and microvessels. This NV remodeling is controlled by a complex interplay of numerous mediators originating from cellular components of the NV unit and from breakdown of the extracellular matrix. Several of these mediator families are also involved in neuronal remodeling, thus providing for integration of vascular and neuronal responses to the ischemic state. On the global molecular scale, changes in ischemic cerebral microvessels include temporally controlled regulation of genes and proteins involved in cell cycle, blood-brain barrier phenotypic properties, cell proliferation, motility, and inflammation. The integration/coordination of angiogenic and neuronal remodeling during postischemic brain recovery is an important determinant of the overall neurological outcome.
Protective proteins and telomere length in placentas from patients with pre-eclampsia in the last trimester of gestation.

Introduction Visfatin/nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (Nampt), an enzyme involved in energy metabolism and sirtuins, SIRT1 and SIRT3, which are NAD-dependent deacetylases, are critical for cellular function. All three either regulate or are regulated by intracellular NAD+ levels and therefore available cellular energy, important for placental cell survival and successful pregnancy. This study investigates whether these protective proteins are involved in the placental pathophysiology of pre-eclampsia (PE) and if they are associated with 8-oxo-deoxyguanosine (8OHdG), a marker of oxidative damage or with placental telomere length.
The measurement of lymphocyte volume: importance of reference particle deformability and counting solution tonicity

We have determined the influence of reference particle deformability and suspending buffer tonicity on the measurement of lymphocyte volume by an electronic particle volume analyzer. When the volume analyzer was standardized with latex spherules having a shape factor (fe) of 1.5, red cell volume was 96 cu micron and lymphocyte volume was 289 cu micron. The red cell volume corresponded closely to the true red cell volume; the true lymphocyte volume, however, was 218 cu micron when measured by the lymphocytocrit/lymphocyte count and 203 cu micron by wet lymphocyte weight and density (mean approximately 210 cu micron). The difference between the electronic volume (Ve) of 289 cu micron and true lymphocyte volume of 210 cu micron was due to the influence of lymphocyte deformability (shape factor) as it traverses the sizing aperture. Since the true volume equals the Ve/fe, the red cells with a shape factor near 1.0 were sized appropriately by this method. In contrast, the lymphocyte shape factor was 1.38; thus, the true lymphocyte volume was 289 cu micron/1.38 or 210 cu micron. The tonicity of the suspending solution also influenced the measurement of particle volume when osmotically inactive standard particles (e.g., latex spherules) were used as a reference. Whereas the true lymphocyte volume was 210 cu micron at 286 mosmole/liter, it was 194 cu micron at 330 and 229 cu micron at 250 mosmole/liter. The standard counting solution, Isoton, is hyperosmolar (330 mosmole/liter) and causes an 8% shrinkage of osmotically active cells.
Lois Lane: In Step with Second-wave Feminism

Lois Lane has been described as “impetuous, reckless, irrepressible, impulsive and unpredictable.” She is “too common.” She is “a combination saint, sinner, imp, imbecile, smartypants, snob, Samaritan.” She is “snoopy, inquisitive, curious, a pest, and can’t keep a secret.” Lane has also been described as “being attractive, ingenious, a star reporter, loyal to SUPERMAN and a terrific booster of worthy charities.” At first glance, the main characteristic of Lane is her enigmatic qualities. However, taking a step back from the character reveals that the framework of omen's history in which Lane was originally put into had begun to change.1 Creators of the character, Joe Siegel and Joe Shuster, had Lane appearing “as a fixture in Superman’s life from 1938 on, even before Lex Luthor and Supergirl, she challenged, undermined, superseded, and sometimes, if necessary and convenient, aligned herself with the roles women were assigned in society.”2 Since her inception, Lois Lane has had to navigate her way through multiple feminist waves, ideologies, and the perpetual reincarnation by various artists.3 This is because characters like these are outlets for artists and writers to express their individual perspectives on life. In the case of Lane, she is an expression for what her creators thought a woman like her should be. This expression becomes sensational when the character takes the lead in her own comic book, Superman’s Girl Friend, Lois Lane.
Seasonal variability shapes resilience of small-scale fisheries in Baja California Sur, Mexico

Small-scale fisheries are an important source of food and livelihoods to coastal communities around the world. Understanding the seasonality of fisheries catch and composition is crucial to fisheries management, particularly in the context of changing environmental and socioeconomic conditions. While seasonal variability directly impacts the lives of fishers, most fisheries studies focus on longer-term change. Here we examine seasonal variability in the small-scale fisheries of Baja California Sur, Mexico based on 13 years of government fisheries data. We investigate how four fisheries indicators with direct relevance to ecological resilience–magnitude and variance of landed fish biomass, taxon richness and the proportion of top-trophic-level taxa in total catch–vary within and among years and at multiple spatial scales. We find that these resilience indicators vary both seasonally and spatially. These results highlight the value of finer-scale monitoring and management, particularly for data-poor fisheries.