cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Magnetic vs. non-magnetic colloids - A comparative adsorption study to quantify the effect of dye-induced aggregation on the binding affinity of an organic dye.

Abstract Hypothesis Due to attractive magnetic forces, magnetic particles (MPs) can exhibit colloidal instability upon molecular adsorption. Thus, by comparing the dye adsorption isotherms of MPs and non-magnetic particles of the same size, shape and functional group it should be possible to characterize the influence of magnetic attraction on MP aggregation. Experiments For a range of particle densities, a comparative adsorption study of malachite green (MG+) onto magnetic and non-magnetic colloids was carried out using a combination of a separation technique coupled with UV–vis spectroscopy, optical microscopy, and polarization dependent second harmonic generation (SHG) spectroscopy. Findings Significant MP aggregation occurs in aqueous solution due to MG+ adsorption. This alters the adsorption isotherm and challenges the determination of the adsorption equilibrium constant, K ads . The dye-induced aggregation is directly related to the MG+ concentration, [MG+]. A modified Langmuir equation, which incorporates loss of surface sites due to this aggregation, accurately describes the resulting adsorption isotherms. The K ads of 1.1 (±0.3) × 107 and a loss of maximum MP surface capacity of 2.8 (±0.7) × 103 M−1 per [MG+] has been obtained. Additionally, SHG has been established as an effective tool to detect aggregation in nanoparticles.
Antidepressant Efficacy for Depression in Children and Adolescents: Industry- and NIMH-Funded Studies

Significant controversy surrounds the efficacy of the newer antidepressants for children and adolescents with depression. The controversy largely hinges on meta-analyses of studies that suggest that antidepressants are minimally effective, not effective, or equivalent to placebo. In this review, the author discusses several scientific and clinical complexities that are important to understand in reviewing the antidepressant literature: the strengths and weaknesses of meta-analyses; the scientific and regulatory context for the large number of antidepressant trials in the late 1990s and early 2000s; and the distinction between a negative trial, where the treatment does not demonstrate efficacy, and a failed trial, where methodological problems make it impossible to draw any conclusion about efficacy. It is the premise of this review that meta-analyses that include the large number of industry-sponsored antidepressant trials distort the picture of antidepressant efficacy for teen depression. Industry-sponso...
Dimerization of Tie2 mediated by its membrane-proximal FNIII domains.

Tie1 and Tie2, members of the tyrosine kinase family with immunoglobulin and EGF homology domains, are receptor tyrosine kinases found primarily in endothelial cells with key roles in development and maintenance of the vasculature and in angiogenesis. They are attractive targets for therapeutic intervention in tumor angiogenesis, inflammation, and sepsis. Tie2 is regulated directly by the multimeric angiopoietin (Ang) ligands, with Ang1 being its primary activator. Structural studies have shown how Angs bind to the Tie2 ligand-binding region, but do not explain Tie2 activation and suggest a passive role for the Tie2 extracellular region (ECR) in ligand-induced receptor dimerization. Here we show that the Tie2 ECR forms strong dimers even in the absence of bound ligand. Dimerization is mediated by membrane-proximal fibronectin type III (FNIII) domains that were omitted in previous structural studies. We describe a 2.5-A resolution X-ray crystal structure of the membrane-proximal three Tie2 FNIII domains, Tie2(FNIIIa–c), revealing two possible dimerization modes that primarily involve the third FNIII domain, FNIIIc. Mutating these dimer interfaces implicates one of them (dimer 1) in soluble Tie2 (sTie2) dimerization in solution but suggests that both could play a role in Ang1-induced Tie2 activation, possibly modulated by Tie1. Through small-angle X-ray scattering studies of sTie2 dimers in solution and modeling based on crystal structures, we suggest that Ang1 binding may cross-link Tie2 dimers into higher-order oligomers, potentially explaining how Tie2 is differentially clustered following ligand engagement in different cellular contexts. Our results also firmly implicate FNIII domain-mediated interactions in Tie2 activation, identifying a potential Achilles’ heel for therapeutic inhibition.
LOGIC VERSUS LANGUAGE: negation in language: pragmatics, function, ontology

This chapter describes how negation in natural language differs, in highly specific and easily formalizable ways, from negation as traditionally treated in simple propositional logic. In the latter, the negative operator merely reverses the truth value of a proposition, without impinging upon the equal status of both [p] and [∼p] as bona fide propositions of the same sort. Affirmatives and their corresponding negatives in language do not differ by only their truth value, but also by an additional pragmatic element, namely, by their discourse presuppositions. These do not always correspond to what logicians have traditionally defined as presupposition. Thus, the neat dichotomy of deductive logic tends, where the pragmatics of natural language is concerned, to melt in the light of inductive, probabilistic reasoning. The chapter also reviews the type of predictions that one may derive from the presuppositionally more marked status of negative sentences. These predictions involve distributional restrictions, diachronic conservatism, and psychological complexity.
Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Initiation Among Sexual Orientation Identity and Racial/Ethnic Subgroups of Black and White U.S. Women and Girls: An Intersectional Analysis.

Abstract Introduction: Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, which is recommended for U.S. women and girls aged 11–26 years, effectively prevents cervical cancer. Researchers have identified HPV ...
Mechanisms of Opioid Analgesia

In man, the presence of pain is inferred by the observer from the verbal reports of the subject and/or certain behavioral characteristics expressing his or her emotional state, and from evidence, actual or presumed, of tissue injury. Given the same or equivalent degrees of tissue injury, the severity of pain and demands for its relief vary widely. For example, Beecher (1956, 1968) noted that at the Anzio Beachhead in World War II, 150 soldiers with severe war wounds (trauma to bones, intrathoracic and intra-abdominal trauma) complained far less of pain, and only 32% wanted a narcotic within 7.2–12.5 hr after the trauma, compared with 150 males who had sustained comparable injuries in civilian disasters, 83% of whom wanted a narcotic within 3.0–4.4 hr after the trauma. In animals, pain is inferred by the observer from certain “nociceptive” reflexes and behaviors (attempts to escape, struggling, attacking, vocalizing). Yet here, too, the manifestations of pain, given the same or equivalent degrees of injury, are not invariable. Thus, Pavlov (1927) reported an experiment by Erofeeva in which she used strong electric (faradic) stimulation of the skin (which normally evokes vigorous unconditioned defense reflexes) as the conditioned stimulus for the formation of an alimentary conditioned reflex, by repeatedly pairing the former with presentation of food to the food-deprived dog.
Use of Teratocarcinoma Cells as a Model System for Studying the Cell Surface During Early Mammalian Development

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the use of teratocarcinoma cells as a model system for studying the cell surface during early mammalian development. The acceptance of teratocarcinoma as a model system for the study of early mammalian development is based on the close similarity between teratocarcinoma cells and normal embryonic cells. Teratocarcinoma cells offer the advantage of being available in large quantities and of being able to withstand cloning, culture, and manipulation in ways that embryonic cells are not. The chapter presents two different approaches that capitalize on the ease with which large numbers of teratocarcinoma stem cells can be obtained, and their remarkable similarity to certain normal embryonic cells. One approach involves immunological and biochemical identification of cell surface molecules common to teratocarcinoma cells and embryonic cells. The second approach to studying the cell surface is to consider a particular function and to try to identify molecules that serve that function.
Game design for visually-impaired individuals: Creativity and innovation theories and sensory substitution devices influence on virtual and physical navigation skills

This action research study examined the design elements of three VR games that used an HTC VIVE VR helmet, two HTC game controllers, and a VR horse simulator for functionality and transferability to orientation and mobility (O&M) education for visually impaired individuals. The functionality of the VR games was tested with a visually-impaired individual based upon five characteristics that are important to O&M education: perimeter scanning then grid scanning, hearing, touch, smell, and perceptions of body positions. The horse simulator has potential benefits for proprioception and kinesthesia development. The inconsistent haptic feedback requires redesign consideration for inclusion within VR games and systems for O&M education.
Abstract 249: Cortical-bone Derived Stem Cells Improve Cardiac Outcomes After Myocardial Infarction by Modulating the Inflammatory Response

Rationale: Cortical-bone derived stem cells (CBSCs) improve cardiac pump function and reduce scar size after myocardial infarction (MI) compared to Cardiac-Derived and Mesenchymal Stem Cells. Howev...
Staring into the void: demystifying microbial metabolomics

Metabolites give us a window into the chemistry of microbes and are split into two subclasses: primary and secondary. Primary metabolites are required for life whereas secondary metabolites have historically been classified as those appearing after exponential growth and are not necessarily needed for survival. Many microbial species are estimated to produce hundreds of metabolites and can be affected by differing nutrients. Using various analytical techniques, metabolites can be directly detected in order to elucidate their biological significance. Currently, a single experiment can produce anywhere from megabytes to terabytes of data. This big data has motivated scientists to develop informatics tools to help target specific metabolites or sets of metabolites. Broadly, it is imperative to identify clear biological questions before embarking on a study of metabolites (metabolomics). For instance, studying the effect of a transposon insertion on phenazine biosynthesis in Pseudomonas is a very different from asking what molecules are present in a specific banana-derived strain of Pseudomonas. This review is meant to serve as a primer for a 'choose your own adventure' approach for microbiologists with limited mass spectrometry expertise, with a strong focus on liquid chromatography mass spectrometry based workflows developed or optimized within the past five years.
Integration of Behind-the-Meter Solar into Distribution Feeders: The Importance of Time Resolution on Model Results

We investigate the impact of time resolution of solar data in modeling distribution grids with significant shares of distributed solar resources. As behind-the-meter solar grows in the United States, power system modelers are charged with understanding power quality implications in distribution systems. While analyses using high temporal resolution data are more realistic, data at this granularity is often not available and this high temporal resolution increases the computational burden significantly. On the other hand, while a low time resolution might be more feasible for these reasons, it might also lead to inaccurate results because of its inability to detect second-to-second dynamics in the solar profile. We model solar growth at different time granularities (from 4 seconds to 10 minutes) in a real-world distribution feeder. Results show that the model's ability to detect voltage flicker is highly affected by the changes in the temporal resolution of data considered. This highlights the importance of low-time resolution solar data in modeling power systems with significant solar penetration.
Impact of the Affordable Care Act on human papillomavirus vaccination initiation among lesbian, bisexual, and heterosexual U.S. women.

Objective To examine the effect of the 2010 Affordable Care Act (ACA) extended dependent coverage and no cost-sharing provisions on human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination in relation to sexual orientation identity among U.S. women. Data sources 2006-2010 and 2011-2015 National Survey of Family Growth. Study design We used an interrupted time series design and multivariable Poisson regression to assess differences in HPV vaccination initiation before (2007-2010) and after (2011-2015) the 2010 ACA provisions among heterosexual, bisexual, and lesbian U.S. women aged 15-25 years (N = 7033), adjusting for temporal trends and demographic factors. Data collection Computer-assisted personal interview and audio computer-assisted self-interview questionnaires. Principal findings The adjusted prevalence of HPV vaccination initiation was significantly higher among lesbian and bisexual women after compared to before the 2010 ACA-at 19.1 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 5.4, 32.9) and 15.7 (95% CI: 4.4, 27.1) percentage points in 2015 compared to 2007-2010, respectively. We observed no association between the 2010 ACA provisions and HPV vaccination initiation among heterosexual women after adjusting for temporal trends and demographic factors. Conclusions The 2010 ACA provisions may have improved HPV vaccination initiation among lesbian and bisexual women. Policies and programs that increase access to health insurance and provide HPV vaccines at no cost to patients may facilitate HPV vaccine uptake in these marginalized populations.
New Systematic Therapies and Trends in Cutaneous Melanoma Deaths Among US Whites, 1986-2016.

Objectives. To determine the effect of new therapies and trends toward reduced mortality rates of melanoma.Methods. We reviewed melanoma incidence and mortality among Whites (the group most affecte...
Ostariophysan Alarm Pheromones: Laboratory and Field Tests of the Functional Significance of Nitrogen Oxides

In laboratory and field-trapping studies, we exposed fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas) and finescale dace (Chrosomus neogaeus) to hypoxanthine-3-N-oxide and a suite of structurally and functionally similar compounds in order to determine if: (1) hypoxanthine-3-N-oxide functions as a chemical alarm signal in ostariophysan fishes and (2) the purine skeleton, a structural component, or the nitrogen oxide, a functional component, or both act as the molecular trigger in this chemical alarm signaling system. Minnows and dace exhibited significant antipredator responses when exposed to conspecific skin extract or hypoxanthine-3-N-oxide (increased shoaling and decreased area use) and the functionally similar pyridine-N-oxide (increased shoaling) but not to structurally similar molecules lacking a nitrogen oxide functional group or to a swordtail skin extract control. Field-trapping studies revealed similar results. Traps labeled with fathead minnows skin extract, hypoxanthine-3-N-oxide, or pyridine-N-oxide caught significantly fewer fish than did those labeled with distilled water. These data strongly suggest that the nitrogen oxide functional group acts as the chief molecular trigger in the Ostariophysan alarm pheromone system and that, contrary to previous research, hypoxanthine-3-N-oxide may be one of several possible molecules that function as a chemical alarm signal. Here we report the first example of a single functional group capable of eliciting a suite of behavioral responses.
E-050 Safety and feasibility of distal radial access in anatomic snuff box for cerebral angiography: initial experience

Objective To describe feasibility, technique and safety of distal radial access in anatomic snuff box for cerebral angiography. Also, to describe potential advantages and limitations compared to conventional radial access at the wrist and transfemoral access. Methods We performed retrospective review of cerebral angiography procedures performed or attempted with distal radial access between October 2018 through February 2019, at University Hospital (Newark, NJ). Ultrasound measurement of radial artery in anatomic snuff box was performed in all potential candidates and different approach was performed in patients with Results Total of 25 cerebral angiography procedures were successfully performed in patients with age ranging 33–78 years, with distal radial access. Once successful access was achieved, intended vessels were catheterized in all patients. One patient had left distal radial access, rest had on Right. On an overage 3.6 (1–6) vessels were catheterized. No major complications were noted. Average procedure end to discharge time was 3 hours and 15 minutes. 2 patient reported prolonged pain at wrist, lasting 1 week. Patients who had prior angiogram with different approach, reported preference for Distal Radial approach. On the other hand, there were 4 failed attempted in the same time period. 2 were converted to conventional radial and 2 transfemoral. These failed attempts were related to severe vasospasm and were in the early part of the learning curve. Conclusion This single center experience suggests feasibility and safety of distal radial access for cerebral angiography. Most patients in this study who had angiogram by other approach, preferred distal radial approach. In addition, post procedure recovery time is significantly shorter. There should be further large-scale studies to evaluate this potentially useful and in select cases advantageous approach. Disclosures P. Patel: None. I. Bach: None. N. Majmundar: None. P. Khandelwal: None.
1.28 – Geoprivacy

Though most adults place a high value on maintaining control over personal information that is revealed about them, online information, including their social media transactions, may reveal more than they intend. This article elucidates the basic concepts of privacy and geoprivacy and describes how location-revealing technologies can be used to develop locational information profiles about individuals and households. Several types of geocoding methods that can be applied to social media information are described; the reverse geocoding process, in which a map symbol is processed to yield an address, is also described. Sequences of space–time coordinates gleaned from social media transactions can be processed to reveal the activity space of an individual or household.
On the Evolution of Organizational Government: Divided Governance and Survival in the Long Run

This paper analyzes the formation, refinement, and evolution of organizational decisionmaking processes, e.g. organizational governments. In doing so, it develops a framework for analyzing a broad cross section of private and non-private formal organizations. Formal organizations are all founded, e.g. they have a beginning. As a consequence, decisionmaking authority within an organization is often initially distributed in a manner that provides their founders (formeteurs) with substantial control over their organizations. However, that control is rarely, if ever, complete, because formeteurs interests are often advanced by trading and/or delegating authority to others in exchange for services and other resources that increase organizational surplus. The result tends to be divided, rule-based, governance based on the king and council template.
Definitive single fraction stereotactic ablative radiotherapy for inoperable early-stage breast cancer: A case report.

We review a case of inoperable early stage breast cancer treated definitively with the use of stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR). A 57-year-old female with a history of decompensated cirrhosis with early stage breast cancer was treated with 25 Gy in one fraction. At her 7-month follow up visit, there was a complete resolution of disease on imaging. This case represents a novel approach for the treatment of breast cancer with SABR when surgery is contraindicated.
Optimization of concrete stiffeners for confined brick masonry structures

Abstract In order to ensure safety of confined brick masonry structures, researchers have recommended the use of reinforced-concrete (RC) stiffeners. Most of the time, the seismic demand is much less than the provided strength even with the use of minimum stiffeners cross-section, concrete strength and reinforcement re-bars. Thus, there is a need to correlate the seismic demand with the stiffeners design. In this paper, the optimization of RC stiffeners is proposed using a diagonal approach and validated numerically. The purpose of this effort is to ensure both structural safety and economy at the same time. A total of 50 macro-models of brick masonry structures are developed and analyzed in SAP2000 for different seismic parameters. The principle critical stress and top maximum displacement (in-plane) are studied in detail. The prediction of cracks propagation is also made. The behaviour of different confined brick masonry structures (CBMS) are compared with that of unconfined brick masonry structure (UBMS). As anticipated, CBMS (with proposed stiffeners) performed better compared to UBMS for respective seismic loadings. It is concluded that the proposed optimized stiffeners in CBMS meet the required seismic demand for combinations of seismic loadings.
Comparative Effectiveness of Mechanical Valves and Homografts in Complex Aortic Endocarditis

Background The ideal surgical reconstruction of the aortic root in patients with complex endocarditis is controversial. We compared the short- and long-term outcomes between mechanical valves, bioprostheses, and homografts. Methods We identified all patients undergoing an operation for active complex aortic endocarditis at our institution between 2003 and 2017. We grouped patients according to those who received a mechanical valve, bioprosthesis, or homograft. We used multiple logistic regression and proportional hazards models. To minimize confounding by indication, we used marginal risk adjustment to simulate that every patient would undergo (contrary to fact) all 3 operations. Results Of 159 patients with complex active endocarditis, 48 (30.2%) had a valve plus patch reconstruction, and 85 (53.4%) had a root replacement. Of all, 50 (31.5%) had a mechanical valve, 56 (35.2%) had a bioprosthesis, and 53 (33.3%) had a homograft. The groups were similar in age, sex, body mass index, comorbid conditions, organism, abscess location, and mitral involvement (all P > .05). However, patients receiving mechanical reconstructions were more likely to have native valve endocarditis (46% vs 37.5% vs 17%; P = .005) and less likely to undergo root replacement (32% vs 28.6% vs 100%; P Conclusions In patients with complex endocarditis, mechanical valves are associated with similar, if not better, short- and long-term outcomes compared with homografts, even after adjusting for important baseline characteristics and limiting the analysis to root replacements only.
“Hopefully I Can Transfer:” Cooling Out Postsecondary Aspirations of Latina/o/x Students

Guided by the frameworks of college-conocimiento and the cooling out function, this study examined the college choice process of Latina/o/x students who attended an under-resourced urban high schoo...
Quantifying Species Populations in Multivalent Borohydride Electrolytes

Multivalent batteries represent an important beyond Li-ion energy storage concept. The prospect of calcium batteries, in particular, has emerged recently due to novel electrolyte demonstrations, especially that of a ground-breaking combination of the borohydride salt Ca(BH4)2 dissolved in tetrahydrofuran. Recent analysis of magnesium and calcium versions of this electrolyte led to the identification of divergent speciation pathways for Mg2+ and Ca2+ despite identical anions and solvents, owing to differences in cation size and attendant flexibility of coordination. To test these proposed speciation equilibria and develop a more quantitative understanding thereof, we have applied pulsed-field-gradient nuclear magnetic resonance and dielectric relaxation spectroscopy to study these electrolytes. Concentration-dependent variation in anion diffusivities and solution dipole relaxations, interpreted with the aid of molecular dynamics simulations, confirms these divergent Mg2+ and Ca2+ speciation pathways. These results provide a more quantitative description of the electroactive species populations. We find that these species are present in relatively small quantities, even in the highly active Ca(BH4)2/tetrahydrofuran electrolyte. This finding helps interpret previous characterizations of metal deposition efficiency and morphology control and thus provides important fundamental insight into the dynamic properties of multivalent electrolytes for next-generation batteries.
Considering Social Equity in a New Public Management Reform: Evidence from Milwaukee, Wisconsin

This article uses the case of independent charter schools in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to test whether New Public Management style reforms are compatible with the public administration pillar of social...
Fetoscopic compared with open repair of myelomeningocele: a 2-delivery cost-effectiveness analysis.

BACKGROUND Recent studies have compared maternal and neonatal outcomes associated with fetoscopic surgical approach for repair of myelomeningocele compared with an open approach. OBJECTIVE In this study, we compared the cost-effectiveness of these techniques in the setting of a woman seeking future pregnancies. STUDY DESIGN A decision-analytical model using TreeAge software was designed to compare the costs and outcomes of fetoscopic vs open repair in patients with prenatally diagnosed myelomeningocele. We assumed a theoretical cohort of 500 women with a pregnancy affected by myelomeningocele planning to have a future pregnancy. Our model accounted for costs and quality-adjusted life years of the woman, the neonate with myelomeningocele, and the neonate in a subsequent pregnancy. Neonatal outcomes from the incident pregnancy included motor function >2 levels better than the anatomic level, motor function RESULTS In the index pregnancy, fetoscopic surgical technique resulted in 140 fewer cases of preterm birth and fewer cases of neurodevelopmental disability and neonatal death. Fetoscopic technique resulted in 130 more cases of functional level >2 levels better than the anatomic level, 35 fewer cases of functional level >2 levels worse than the anatomic level, and 107 fewer cases of function same as the anatomic level. In the subsequent pregnancy, fetoscopic surgery led to 22 fewer cases of delivery complications (uterine dehiscence, uterine rupture, and excessive bleeding), 24 fewer cases of stillbirth, and 22 fewer cases of preterm birth. Although the fetoscopic approach was more costly, it was cost-effective with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of $1029 per quality-adjusted life year in our theoretical cohort of 500 patients. Monte Carlo probabilistic sensitivity analysis showed that fetoscopic technique is cost-effective 100% of the time. CONCLUSION In our theoretical cohort, the fetoscopic approach was more costly, but resulted in improved outcomes when a subsequent pregnancy was considered.
Patient Portals to Support Palliative and End-of-Life Care: Scoping Review.

Background: Although patient portals are widely used for health promotion, little is known about the use of palliative care and end-of-life (PCEOL) portal tools available for patients and caregivers. Objective: This study aims to identify and assess the user perspectives of PCEOL portal tools available to patients and caregivers described and evaluated in the literature. Methods: We performed a scoping review of the academic literature directed by the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) extension for Scoping Review and searched three databases. Sources were included if they reported the development or testing of a feature, resource, tool, or intervention; focused on at least one PCEOL domain defined by the National Coalition for Hospice and Palliative Care; targeted adults with serious illness or caregivers; and were offered via a patient portal tethered to an electronic medical record. We independently screened the titles and abstracts (n=796) for eligibility. Full-text (84/796, 10.6%) sources were reviewed. We abstracted descriptions of the portal tool name, content, targeted population, and reported user acceptability for each tool from included sources (n=19). Results: In total, 19 articles describing 12 tools were included, addressing the following PCEOL domains: ethical or legal (n=5), physical (n=5), and psychological or psychiatric (n=2). No tools for bereavement or hospice care were identified. Studies have reported high acceptability of tools among users; however, few sources commented on usability among older adults. Conclusions: PCEOL patient portal tools are understudied. As medical care increasingly moves toward virtual platforms, future research should investigate the usability and acceptability of PCEOL patient portal resources and evaluate their impact on health outcomes. Trial Registration:
When ‘dem Come: The Political Ecology of Sustainable Tourism in Cockpit Country, Jamaica

Sustainable livelihood projects in the Caribbean have been largely unsuccessful to date, often culminating in a failure to fulfill initial conservation and development objectives. This chapter examines the political ecology of sustainable tourism in the bauxite rich Cockpit Country ofWest Central Jamaica. It concerns the collaboration of government and non-government organizations and people living in forest-fringe communities throughout Cockpit Country working toward sustainable alternatives to bauxite prospecting and mining that stakeholders anticipated would come to fruition in the area. This chapter focuses on the operations of, and concerns raised by, various alternatives to bauxite mining and the implementation of these alternatives throughout Cockpit Country.
Intestinal and splenic T cell responses to enteric Listeria monocytogenes infection: distinct repertoires of responding CD8 T lymphocytes.

Listeria monocytogenes is an intracellular bacterium that causes systemic infections after traversing the intestinal mucosa. Clearance of infection and long term protective immunity are mediated by L. monocytogenes-specific CD8 T lymphocytes. In this report, we characterize the murine CD8 T cell response in the lamina propria and intestinal epithelium after enteric L. monocytogenes infection. We find that the frequency of MHC class Ia-restricted, L. monocytogenes-specific T cells is ∼4- to 5-fold greater in the lamina propria than in the spleen of mice after oral or i.v. infection. Although the kinetics of T cell expansion and contraction are similar in spleen, lamina propria, and intestinal epithelium, high frequencies of Ag-specific T cells are detected only in the lamina propria 1 mo after infection. In contrast to MHC class Ia-restricted T cells, the frequency of H2-M3-restricted, L. monocytogenes-specific T cells is decreased in the intestinal mucosa relative to that found in the spleen. In addition to this disparity, we find that MHC class Ia-restricted CD8 T cells specific for a dominant L. monocytogenes epitope have different TCR Vβ repertoires in the spleen and intestinal mucosa of individual mice. These findings indicate that the intestinal mucosa is a depot where L. monocytogenes-specific effector CD8 T cells accumulate during and after infection irrespective of immunization route. Furthermore, our results demonstrate that CD8 T cell populations in these two sites, although overlapping in Ag specificity, are distinct in terms of their repertoire.
Activation of α1A-adrenergic receptor promotes differentiation of rat-1 fibroblasts to a smooth muscle-like phenotype

Fibroblasts, as connective tissue cells, are able to transform into another cell type including smooth muscle cells. α1A-adrenergic receptor (α1A-AR) stimulation in rat-1 fibroblasts is coupled to cAMP production. However, the significance of an increase in cAMP produced by α1A-AR stimulation on proliferation, hypertrophy and differentiation in these cells is not known. Activation of the α1A-AR in rat-1 fibroblasts by phenylephrine (PE) inhibited DNA synthesis by 67% and blocked the re-entry of 81% of the cells into S phase of the cell cycle. This cell cycle blockage was associated with hypertrophy characterized by an increase in protein synthesis (64%) and cell size. Elevation of cAMP levels decreased both DNA and protein synthesis. Inhibition of adenylyl cyclase or protein kinase A reversed the antiproliferative effect of cAMP analogs but not PE; the hypertrophic effect of PE was also not altered. The functional response of rat-1 cells to PE was accompanied by increased expression of cyclin-dependent kinase (Cdk) inhibitors p27kip1 and p21cip1/waf1, which function as negative regulators of the cell cycle. Stimulation of α1A-AR also upregulated the cell cycle regulatory proteins pRb, cyclin D1, Cdk 2, Cdk 4, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen. The antiproliferative effect of PE was blocked by p27kip1 antisense but not sense oligonucleotide. PE also promoted expression of smooth muscle cell differentiation markers (smooth muscle alpha actin, caldesmon, and myosin heavy chain) as well as the muscle development marker MyoD. Stimulation of α1A-AR promotes cell cycle arrest, hypertrophy and differentiation of rat-1 fibroblasts into smooth muscle-like cells and expression of negative cell cycle regulators by a mechanism independent of the cAMP/PKA signaling pathway.
The AugmenTable: Markerless hand manipulation of virtual objects in a tabletop augmented reality environment

The AugmenTable is an augmented reality workstation intended for conceptual design and prototyping. It combines a thin form factor display, inexpensive web cameras, and a PC into a unique apparatus that has advantages similar to a head mounted display. The system operates on well-established computer vision algorithms to detect unmarked fingertips within an augmented reality scene. An application was developed to allow a user to manipulate virtual objects within the scene. This manipulation is possible through the use of three-dimensional widgets and controls that allow the user to control objects with natural fingertip motion. This thesis also documents similar previous work, the methods used to create the AugmenTable, and a number of avenues for advancing the system and the interactions it can offer users.
Abstract 13133: Silencing of Angiopoietin-like Protein 3 (ANGPTL3) in IHH- Hepatocytes Results in Increased Insulin Sensitivity and Reduced Triglyceride-rich VLDL Secretion

AIMS: Homozygosity of loss-of-function mutations in ANGPTL3 -gene results in familial combined hypolipidemia (FHBL2,OMIM #605019) characterized by reduction of all major plasma lipoprotein classes VLDL, LDL, HDL and low circulating free fatty acids, glucose and insulin levels. Thus complete lack of ANGPTL3 in humans not only affects lipid metabolism but also whole-body insulin and glucose balance. Our aim was to investigate the function of ANGPTL3, a hepatic secretory protein, in promoting hypolipidemia and hepatic insulin sensitivity. METHODS: We used wild type and ANGPTL3-silenced human immortalized hepatocytes (IHH) to investigate the effect of ANGPTL3-silencing on hepatic VLDL secretion and glucose uptake. RESULTS: We demonstrate that insulin downregulates hepatic secretion of ANGPTL3 and triglyceride-enriched VLDL1-type particles in a dose dependent manner. Similar effect on VLDL secretion was demonstrated with a treatment of PPAR[[Unable to Display Character: ƴ]] agonist rosiglitazone. We furth...
Urease activity of Proteus species in filtered compared with autoclaved urea media.

Hatch, M. H. (Brown University, Providence, R.I.) and C. A. Stuart. Urease activity of Proteus species in filtered compared with autoclaved urea media. J. Bacteriol. 83:1119–1123. 1962.—Urease activity of a number of strains of four Proteus species was compared in a filtered medium and an autoclaved medium. Various amounts of saline suspensions of the organisms were used as inocula for the two media. In some experiments Seitz-filtered yeast extract was added to autoclaved basal urea medium. All tests were incubated at 35 C and read 8, 12, 24, and 48 hr after inoculation. The filtered medium appeared superior to the autoclaved medium, particularly when small inocula were employed. Under these conditions, many tests with all four species were negative in the autoclaved medium at 48 hr, in contrast to 100% positive reactions in the filtered medium with all species except P. morganii. The experiments in which Seitz-filtered yeast extract was added to autoclaved basal urea medium suggested that both destruction of growth-promoting substances in the yeast extract and production of conditions inhibitory for growth during autoclaving might be involved in the differences observed between the two media.
GAS PULSE IMPREGNATION OF GRAPHITE WITH CARBON.

A vacuum-pressure pulsing process was developed to gas impregnate graphite with carbon. An inductively heated graphite substrate is cycled between vacuum and 20-psig butadiene for 2 to 30 h at 750 ...
Comprehensive secondary electron emission modeling for simulating e-beam collection in MICHELLE

Summary form only given. Electron beam collection systems variously employed in O-type fast-wave and slow-wave devices such as gyrotrons, gyroklystrons, klystrons, and TWTs must often be carefully designed to avoid potentially undesirable consequences of secondary electron production at the electrode surface(s). An advanced, three-dimensional electron beam design tool, called MICHELLE, is currently undergoing development by a team lead by SAIC under ONR sponsorship. As part of this new effort, an algorithmic representation of a comprehensive model of secondary emission is being developed for this computational tool in order to achieve an accurate beam collection design capability. The secondary emission model separates the emission problem into two macroparticle species: (1) true secondary electrons (SSE) and (2) rediffused (or backscattered) primary electrons (BSE). Each emitted particle species is assigned empirically-based, discrete angular and energy distributions in normalized form, which in turn are dependent upon both the incident particle energy and angle of incidence. Also, provisions for material-specific surface roughness contributions are included in approximate fashion. Algorithms used to capture the secondary emission model will be detailed.
Hysteresis in single and polycrystalline iron thin films: Major and minor loops, first order reversal curves, and Preisach modeling

Abstract Hysteretic behavior was studied in a series of Fe thin films, grown by molecular beam epitaxy, having different grain sizes and grown on different substrates. Major and minor loops and first order reversal curves (FORCs) were collected to investigate magnetization mechanisms and domain behavior under different magnetic histories. The minor loop coefficient and major loop coercivity increase with decreasing grain size due to higher defect concentration resisting domain wall movement. First order reversal curves allowed estimation of the contribution of irreversible and reversible susceptibilities and switching field distribution. The differences in shape of the major loops and first order reversal curves are described using a classical Preisach model with distributions of hysterons of different switching fields, providing a powerful visualization tool to help understand the magnetization switching behavior of Fe films as manifested in various experimental magnetization measurements.
Strategic Sourcing with Small Business in Mind

Abstract : In 2005, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued a memorandum to federal agencies to identify three routinely purchased commodities that could be more effectively and efficiently acquired through the use of an acquisition approach called Strategic Sourcing. The memorandum requires agencies to implement Strategic Sourcing efforts to save the government money and improve performance on the more than $500 billion spent through contracting each year. In an effort to save millions of dollars of agency funds, concern has been raised by small business advocates that Strategic Sourcing efforts may narrow their opportunities and create bundled requirements which they are not able to meet. Strategic Sourcing concepts generally require national coverage for product or service provisions that may fall beyond a small businesses capability. Additionally the Obama administration has called for a reduction of contracts awarded noncompetitively however, single award requirements are still within federal acquisition guidelines. If these requirements are procured under a single award effort, Strategic Sourcing can limit competition at the task and delivery order levels without incentivizing vendors to further reduce prices. This paper discusses ideas for how the government acquisition workforce can leverage small business participation through the use of subcontracting goals.
Voting Radical Right in Western Europe: Who Votes for the Radical Right?

INTRODUCTION The puzzle to be explored in this book is why radical right (RR) parties have had more success in France and Austria (and Denmark) than in Germany. Chapter 2 introduced the radical right parties, showing that they have had varying levels of success in attracting voters, despite similar appeals. This chapter explores who votes for the radical right across the three countries. This type of inquiry has been central to the study of radical right parties in Western Europe. To understand why radical right parties have had increasing success in the last two decades, authors such as Herbert Kitschelt (1995), Hanspieter Kriesi (1995), and Hans-Georg Betz (1994) have studied the voters for these parties and the motivations behind the vote. Kitschelt also has looked at differences in radical right parties' constituencies to explain differences in these parties' levels of success. The main argument in this chapter, however, is that differences in who votes for the radical right cannot explain the difference in the radical right's level of success . It is difficult to show systematically that differences in the level of success of radical right parties are caused by differences in the types of voters they attract. I argue that what is remarkable about radical right parties in Western Europe is not the differences in their electorates, but the similarities, no matter the level of electoral success. To support my argument, I compare the electorates of radical right parties in France, Germany, and Austria during the 1980s and 1990s.
Coherence in the quasi-continuum model

Abstract It is shown that the diagonalization of internal molecular couplings to produce a photoabsorption quasicontinuum does not produce an incoherent absorption coefficient but maintains phase coherence in dipole moments.
Post-γ-globulin: Isolation and physicochemical characterization

Abstract Post-γ-globulin has been purified from urine of kidney transplant patients by a procedure which includes ultrafiltration, gel filtration, and ion-exchange chromatography. The purified protein appears to be homogeneous by ultracentrifugal and gel electrophoretic criteria. The yield of the purified protein was 30–35% of the total amount of post-γ-globulin excreted in different urine samples. Electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate and 2-mercaptoethanol revealed a single band and established that the protein consists of one polypeptide unit with a molecular weight of approximately 11,500. Sedimentation velocity experiments indicated a s 20, w of 1.55 S. Amino acid analysis of post-γ-globulin revealed the presence of hydroxylysine and hydroxyproline. The protein is devoid of carbohydrate. Post-γ-globulin has been demonstrated in small quantities in normal urine, serum, cerebrospinal fluid, and mixed saliva; preparations derived from these fluids have been shown to be immunochemically identical.
Space radiation testing of radiation resistant glasses and crystals

ABSTRACT With the number of cerium doped radiation resistant glasses available to the designer of space optics rapidly decreasing, it iscritical to identify and characterize all potential sources of radiation resistant glasses and crystals. Unfortunately much of thedata on radiation testing of glasses is quite old and often not completed at very high dose rates as might be experienced by anunshielded space optic in orbit for many years. In addition, many optical glasses and crystals are manufactured today withmuch higher purity than in the past in order to increase their ultraviolet transmission properties. Consequently these glassesare much more resistant to space radiation than in the past. In this paper we will present gamma radiation effects on thetransmission properties of todays fused silica, sapphire, calcium fluoride, barium fluoride, Schott cerium doped radiationresistant glasses, Schott colored glass filters, as well as some infrared glasses with up to a 10 Mrad dose.Keywords: Space radiation, radiation resistant glasses, crystals, space optics
The long QT syndrome. A review of recent molecular genetic and physiologic discoveries

There is great reason for optimism in the field of research into the long QT syndrome (LQT). We have made considerable progress, but there is much more to be done. We used molecular genetics to identify genes responsible for 2 forms of LQT (cardiac potassium and sodium channel genes HERG and SCN5A, respectively). These discoveries have led to improved mechanistic undertaking of the disorder and created the possibility for genetic testing. We are working to develop genetic tests for autosomal dominant LQT, but this will require identification of additional LQT genes. Specialized research laboratories like ours can provide genetic testing for many families, but these tests are not yet generally available. These tests may be particularly useful for families with LQT, since asymptomatic LQT gene carriers are still at risk for sudden death. Finally, molecular genetic and physiologic studies offer the possibility of new strategies for treatment and prevention of this cardiovascular disease.
A parabolic mirror-based proximally actuated photoacoustic endoscope

We have developed a new photoacoustic endoscopic probe specifically designed for human urogenital imaging. The endoscopic probe uses a parabolic mirror-based mechanical scanning mechanism, providing an angular field of view of 270°. And it has a rigid, dome shaped end section for smooth cavity introduction. Here we introduce the new endoscope’s design and imaging principle, and present experimental results validating its in vivo imaging ability.
On a method of Pollaczek

Abstract In 1952, F. Pollaczek gave a method for finding the distribution of the maximal partial sum of mutually independent and identically distributed random variables. In this paper, Pollaczek's results are extended, and the extended results are applied in theory of queues for finding the distribution of the waiting time for single server queues.