cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cardiopulmonary Baroreflex in NaCl-Induced Hypertension in Borderline Hypertensive Rats

Borderline hypertensive rats fed an 8% NaCl diet develop increased arterial pressure in association with increased cardiopulmonary baroreflex sensitivity compared with rats fed a 1% NaCl diet. We performed experiments to localize the site of sensitization within the cardiopulmonary baroreflex. To determine whether decreased cardiopulmonary baroreflex sensitivity, as seen in other models of NaCl-induced hypertension, develops later in the course of the disease, we studied an older backcross population derived from borderline hypertensive rats and Wistar-Kyoto rats. Anesthetized borderline hypertensive rats fed 1% and 8% NaCl diets were volume-loaded while right atrial pressure, afferent vagal nerve activity, and renal sympathetic nerve activity were recorded. In 28- to 30-week-old backcross rats fed an 8% NaCl diet, renal sympathetic nerve activity, natriuresis, and diuresis were measured before and during volume loading. Renal sympathetic nerve activity was analyzed with the sympathetic peak detection algorithm. Increases in afferent vagal nerve activity and renal sympathoinhibition were similar in borderline hypertensive rats on either diet during a right atrial pressure rise of 3 mm Hg. In backcross rats, correlations between arterial pressure and renal sympathoinhibition, natriuresis, or diuresis were not found. During volume loading, the peak height of synchronized renal sympathetic nerve discharges decreased while their frequency increased. Attenuated renal sympathoinhibition during acute increases in intravascular volume is not involved in the development or maintenance of NaCl-induced hypertension in borderline hypertensive rats. Renal sympathetic nerve activity decreases because of a reduction in the number of active renal sympathetic nerve fibers.
Buccal Mucosal Urethral Replacement

AbstractGraft substances, such as skin and bladder mucosa, have been previously used for urethral replacement when local epithelial tissue was not available. However, these substances have been associated with meatal prolapse, stricture and fistula formation. We have used buccal mucosa as a tissue for urethral substitution in these situations during the last 8 years. We review our clinical experience in 18 urethral reconstructions performed for urethral replacement in 4 cases of exstrophy/epispadias, 12 complex hypospadias repairs and 2 cases of complex bulbar urethral strictures. There have been 5 cases of meatal stenosis (2 requiring operative revision) but none of meatal eversion. There has also been 1 urethrocutaneous fistula and 1 mid graft stricture. Mean followup was 27 months and minimum followup was 6 months.Histological examination of the buccal mucosal graft compared to grafts of skin showed that the full thickness of the dermis or lamina propria is thinnest while the native vascular supply is ...
Pulsatile Velocity Measurements in a Model of the Human Abdominal Aorta Under Simulated Exercise and Postprandial Conditions

This study examines the hemodynamics of the abdominal aorta during physiological changes in flow rates and pulse rate that occur under exercise and postprandial conditions. Hemodynamic measurements were performed using an in vitro model which took into account seven major branches, the curvature, and the pulsatile nature of blood flow of the abdominal aorta. Magnetic Resonance Imaging velocimetry employing phase-velocity encoding was used to measure the pulsatile axial velocity profiles for the entire cross-section at three axial locations. Under simulated exercise conditions, the forward velocities were approximately double those seen during rest, and the flow reversal seen for resting conditions was greatly reduced. Near the posterior wall of the infrarenal aorta, the velocities were negative for only 21 percent of the cardiac cycle as compared with 82 percent for resting conditions. Postprandial conditions produced a 25 percent reduction in peak velocity and a 33 percent reduction in mean velocity near the left anterior wall of the aorta just distal to the superior mesenteric artery (in comparison with resting conditions). The changes that can occur in abdominal aorta hemodynamics under different physiologic conditions may affect the rate of progression of atherosclerosis at this site.
Gastric iodide and chloride clearances in dogs.

SummaryIodide and chloride clearances were determined in anesthetized and unanesthetized dogs. The control gastric iodide clearance was 10-50 times greater than the chloride clearance. The iodide clearance could be 95% suppressed by anions known to block the thyroid iodide trap but chloride clearance was practically unchanged. In the presence of the blocking agent, gastric iodide and chloride clearances were similar. These data suggest at least 2 mechanisms for gastric secretion of iodide: (a) a specific iodide secretory system and (b) a non-specific mechanism in common with chloride secretion which continues to function after blockade of (a).
Loss of RAB‐3/A in Caenorhabditis elegans and the mouse affects behavioral response to ethanol

The mechanisms by which ethanol induces changes in behavior are not well understood. Here, we show that Caenorhabditis elegans loss-of-function mutations in the synaptic vesicle-associated RAB-3 protein and its guanosine triphosphate exchange factor AEX-3 confer resistance to the acute locomotor effects of ethanol. Similarly, mice lacking one or both copies of Rab3A are resistant to the ataxic and sedative effects of ethanol, and Rab3A haploinsufficiency increases voluntary ethanol consumption. These data suggest a conserved role of RAB-3-/RAB3A-regulated neurotransmitter release in ethanol-related behaviors.
Developing a Sense of Scale: Looking Backward

Although scale has been identified as one of four major interdisciplinary themes that cut across the science domains by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (1989), we are only beginning to understand how students learn and apply scale concepts. Early research on learning scale tended to focus on perceptions of linear distances, navigation and way finding, whereas more recent work has examined how students conceptualize scale in science contexts. This study sought to understand how understandings of scale develop from childhood to adulthood by asking 50 professionals to reflect on their experiences (in and out-of-school) learning about scale. Semi-structured interviews were utilized to obtain information about educational experiences, informal experiences, and applications of scale in different professions. Results showed that most of the participants used anchor points as conceptual benchmarks when applying scale in their job. Seventy-six percent of the participants attributed physical experiences such as moving through the environment by car, walking, bicycling, or flying in an airplane as contributing to the development of a sense of scale. Results of this study were used to develop a possible model of the trajectory of scale concepts that develop as individuals move from novice through increasing degrees of expertise. Across professions, participants emphasized the critical role that scale plays in their work. For many, scale was viewed as central to accomplishing the work-related tasks. 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 46: 460-475, 2009
Formaldehyde Treated Whey Protein Concentrate for Lactating Dairy Cattle

Abstract Four lactating Holstein cows were fed isonitrogenous rations of urea-corn silage and a 15% crude protein pelleted grain ration containing whey protein concentrate (34% protein) either untreated or treated with 1% formaldehyde on a protein basis. The trial design was three periods double reversal with 12 days per period during which milk and digestibility were measured the last 4 days of each period. Apparent nitrogen digestibility (%), productive nitrogen retained (milk plus retained, g/day), and dry matter digestibility were 60.0 and 53.9, 89.0 and 103.8, and 67.4 and 63.2 for cows fed untreated and treated rations. Productive nitrogen as a percent of absorbed was greater for cows fed the formaldehyde treated ration, suggesting more efficient utilization of absorbed nitrogen. Milk production, milk fat percent and yield, and 4% fat-corrected milk were greater for cows fed the treated ration. Milk fatty acid content was similar. Total daily milk nitrogen, true protein nitrogen, and casein nitrogen yields were not significantly higher for the treated ration. No differences in serum urea and rumen ammonia were major. Rumen volatile fatty acids were higher in cows fed the untreated rations at 4 and 6h postfeeding. Differences in serum concentrations of most individual essential amino acids between tail and mammary blood were greater for cows fed the treated ration.
Hepatocellular carcinoma: Diagnosis and treatment

Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most frequent primary malignancy of the liver and appears to be rising in incidence in the United States and other developed westerm countries. Imaging studies play a key role in diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma, and more and more commonly, patients are being diagnosed at an asymptomatic stage. The use of triphasic computed tomography scanning and improved magnetic resonance imaging equipment and protocols has led to greater sensitivity and specificity for these techniques in diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma. Accurate staging of hepatocellular carcinoma is important in determining prognosis and in helping decide the best treatment for each patient. No one staging system appears optimal, but important factors to be considered are the size of the tumor, severity of underlying liver disease, and the functional status of the patient. Liver transplantation has grown in importance as a treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma but may be limited by availability of donor organs and long waiting times. This situation may be improved by greater use of living donor liver transplantation. Hepatic resection remains an important treatment modality for hepatocellular carcinoma, particularly in the absence of cirrhosis. Tumor ablation by alcohol injection or radiofrequency ablation is associated with favorable outcomes and may be considered a potentially curative treatment. Early diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma remains a key goal in improving the poor prognosis of this form of liver cancer. Identifying hepatocellular carcinoma at an early stage is often associated with having better treatment options for patients with small, asymptomatic tumors.
Analysis of chlordane-impacted streams using chironomid pupal exuviae (Diptera: Chironomidae)

A method of rapidly assessing streams and rivers using chironomid pupal exuviae was tested on a chlordane-impacted stream near St. Louis, Missouri. Various concentrations of chlordane were found in sediments of Grand Glaize Creek, most likely resulting from soil runoff around housing and business developments throughout the stream's course. Chironomid pupal exuviae and sediment samples were collected concurrently from Grand Glaize Creek on two separate occasions, once in 1988 and again in 1990. Cluster analysis of samples at sites, based on the percent abundances of taxa within habitats and by subfamilies, produced two distinct clusters; one grouping samples with lower chlordane concentrations and the other grouping samples with higher chlordane concentrations. Further analysis showed a trend towards lower percent abundances of taxa living in depositional and transitional/depositional zones (Chironominae and some Tanypodinae) at the higher chlordane site, while the lower chlordane sites had lower percent abundances of taxa within erosional and erosional/transitional zones (Orthocladiinae and some Tanypodinae). These findings support the hypothesis that taxa living in close association to fine organic sediments will be exposed to higher concentrations of chlordane in the stream and more negatively affected than taxa feeding and living in habitats removed from chlordane-bound sediments. Comparisons from the present study were made to related studies revealing similar patterns among the Chironomidae.
Percolative transport in fractal porous media

Abstract Application of continuum percolation theory to a fractal pore space model yields results for the constitutive relationships for unsaturated flow in agreement with experiment. This application also unites understanding in that the same dry end moisture content, θ t =0.039 SA vol 0.52 as a function of the surface area to volume ratio, is shown to be associated with the deviation of experimental water retention from fractal scaling as well as with the vanishing of the diffusion constant. Substituted into a critical path analysis (based on continuum percolation theory) for the dependence of the unsaturated hydraulic conductivity, K ( θ ), on moisture, the same value of θ t produces excellent agreement with experimental data ( y =1.0015 x −0.0065, R 2 =0.96), with y experiment, x theory and using no adjustable parameters. Though critical path analysis is based on percolation theory, the result obtained for K ( θ ) is more closely tied to the fractal characteristics of the medium, and the dependence is referred to as a fractal scaling of the hydraulic conductivity. In all three properties, the interpretation of θ t is the same; it represents the minimum value for which a continuous interconnected path of capillary flow is possible, making it the critical volume fraction for percolation. This identification means that the low moisture content deviation from fractal predictions in h ( θ ) does not conflict with fractal models of the pore space, as the deviation is due to dynamics rather than to structure. Critical path analysis does not yield percolation scaling, in which K vanishes as a power of ( θ − θ t ). However, it is shown here that the data for K ( θ ) and h ( θ ) are consistent with an interpretation in which the fractal scaling of K at large moisture contents crosses over to a percolation scaling at a moisture content slightly above θ t .
Do weak interactions become strong at 10 TeV

Abstract Simple model calculations indicate that instanton estimates of high-energy scattering amplitudes are unreliable when the number of final-state particles becomes large. This casts doubt on recent claims that the cross section for baryon number violation becomes large at high energy.
Characterization of Hepatitis B Virus Capsids by Resistive-Pulse Sensing

We report characterization of hepatitis B virus (HBV) capsids by resistive-pulse sensing through single track-etched conical nanopores formed in poly(ethylene terephthalate) membranes. The pores were ∼40 nm in diameter at the tip, and the pore surface was covalently modified with triethylene glycol to reduce surface charge density, minimize adsorption of the virus capsids, and suppress electroosmotic flow in the pore. The HBV capsids were assembled in vitro from Cp149, the assembly domain of HBV capsid protein. Assembled T = 3 (90 Cp149 dimer) and T = 4 (120 dimer) capsids are 31 and 36 nm in diameter, respectively, and were easily discriminated by monitoring the change in current as capsids passed through an electrically biased pore. The ratio of the number of T = 3 to T = 4 capsids transiting a pore did not reflect actual concentrations, but favored transport of smaller T = 3 capsids. These results combined with longer transit times for the T = 4 capsids indicated that the capsids must overcome an entropic barrier to enter a pore.
Mid- and High-Power Passively Q-Switched Microchip Lasers

Passively Q-switched Nd:YAG microchip lasers have been developed that produve up to 250 µJ/pulse at 1.064 µm, with a pulse duration of 380 ps. The infrared output has been harmonically converted to 532, 355, and 266 nm with high efficiency.
Comparison of models and acquisition techniques for estimation of myocardial blood flow from CT

Dynamic contrast enhanced CT has been successfully applied in cardiac imaging for the estimation of myocardial blood flow (MBF). In general, these acquisitions impart a relatively high radiation dose because they require continuous or gated imaging of the heart for 15-40 seconds. At present, there is no consensus on the appropriate estimation method to derive MBF and on the appropriate acquisition technique to minimize dose while maintaining MBF estimation accuracy and precision. This work explores the tradeoff of accuracy and precision of MBF estimates with several estimation methods and acquisition techniques in support of the fundamental goal of optimizing dynamic cardiac CT in terms of radiation dose and MBF estimation fidelity. We simulated time attenuation curves (TACs) for a range of flow states (Flow = [0.8, 1.6, 2.4, 3.2] ml/g/min) and several acquisition techniques. We estimated MBF with 5 different methods for each simulated TAC. From multiple independent realizations, we assessed the accuracy and precision of each method. Results show that acquisition techniques with 1/3 tube current or 1/3 temporal sampling permits accurate MBF estimates with most methods with reduction in MBF estimate precision by on average 30%. Furthermore, reduction in model complexity can be beneficial for improving the precision of MBF estimates.
Order selection of the hearing aid Feedback Canceller filter based on its impulse response energy

Numerous methods have been proposed to cancel the unpleasant effects of acoustic feedback between the loudspeaker and microphone in hearing aid systems. Adaptive Feedback Cancellation (AFC) methods are often used to estimate an FIR filter for cancelling the feedback path effect. In estimating the AFC FIR filter, it is important to select the order of the filter properly; especially when the feedback path changes from one environment to another and no knowledge about it is available. Choosing improper filter order causes deficient system performance or excessive computations and power usage in the system. We present tracking of the energy of AFC FIR filters and its convergence behavior as a new criterion for determining the proper order for AFC FIR filter. Experimental results show validity of the proposed criterion.
Checkpoint Mec-tivation Comes in Many Flavors

In this issue of Molecular Cell, Navadgi-Patil and Burgers show that the budding yeast Mec1 kinase is activated by DNA damage through two distinct Ddc1-mediated mechanisms during G1 and G2 phases of the cell cycle.
Impact of Non-Uniform Beam Filling on Spaceborne Cloud and Precipitation Radar Retrieval Algorithms

In this presentation we will discuss the performance of classification and retrieval algorithms for spaceborne cloud and precipitation radars such as the Global Precipitation Measurement mission [1] Dual-frequency Precipitation Radar (GPM/DPR) [2], and notional radar for the Aerosol/Clouds/Ecosystem (ACE) [1] mission and related concepts. Spaceborne radar measurements are simulated either from Airborne Precipitation Radar 2 nd Generation (APR-2, [3]) observations, or from atmospheric model outputs via instrument simulators contained in the NASA Earth Observing Systems Simulators Suite (NEOS 3 ). Both methods account for the three dimensional nature of the scattering field at resolutions smaller than that of the spaceborne radar under consideration. We will focus on the impact of nonhomogeneities of the field of hydrometeors within the beam. We will discuss also the performance of methods to identify and mitigate such conditions, and the resulting improvements in retrieval accuracy. The classification and retrieval algorithms analyzed in this study are those derived from APR-2’s Suite of Processing and Retrieval Algorithms (ASPRA); here generalized to operate on an arbitrary set of radar configuration parameters to study the expected performance of spaceborne cloud and precipitation radars. The presentation will highlight which findings extend to other algorithm families and which ones do not.
Synthesis of narrow-polydispersity degradable dendronized aliphatic polyesters

The divergent dendronization of an ϵ-caprolactone-based polymer has been performed to provide access to dendronized polymers with sufficient biocompatibility and degradability for use as drug-delivery scaffolds. The synthesis was performed through the tin(II) 2-ethylhexanoate-catalyzed polymerization of a γ-functionalized ϵ-caprolactone monomer, followed by the divergent growth of pendant polyester dendrons at each repeat unit. The resulting dendronized polymers were obtained up to the fourth generation with molecular weights as high as 80,000 Da and with polydispersities between 1.11 and 1.22. The fourth-generation hydroxyl-terminated dendronized polymer was degradable under a variety of aqueous conditions. A comparison of the dendronization approach with a procedure involving the ring-opening polymerization of a second-generation dendritic macromonomer reveals that the former procedure is best suited for the preparation of this family of dendronized polyesters because it requires shorter reaction times and affords materials with higher degrees of polymerization. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 42: 3563–3578, 2004
Common Predictors for Explaining Youth Antisocial Behavior: A Perspective From Ten Longitudinal Studies

For centuries humans have and continue to interact to bring change and homeostasis in their lives. Their interaction centers among roles played within the human developmental stages from toddler to preadolescent, to adolescent, to young adult, and thereafter to adulthood. Often the changes that occur take attitudinal, behavioral, and/or relational forms. These are often examined in research, using cross-section, prospective, or retrospective longitudinal study designs. Longitudinal research has enabled researchers to describe the emergence of violence in terms of two (and possibly more) life-course trajectories. In the early-onset trajectory, this is before puberty, and in the late-onset trajectory occurring after puberty. These two trajectories offer insights into the likely course, severity, and duration of antisocial behavior over the life span. They also have practical implications for the timing of intervention programs and strategies. These trajectories along with the results from longitudinal studi...
An extremely sensitive digital receiver for deep space satellite communications

A new ground based receiver for deep space applications is being designed. By utilizing high speed gallium arsenide applications specific integrated circuits, advanced single board computers, and a real-time embedded operating system, the Block V Receiver will dramatically reduce the volume of equipment at a tracking complex, yet will provide new capabilities with higher reliability. A digital demodulator is the core of the receiver. The system architecture is described. The complexity of the design requires extensive use of both computer aided engineering (CAE) tools and computer aided software engineering (CASE) tools to ensure success. CAE and CASE tools are being used to perform system simulation, hardware design and simulation, and software design, frame generation, and configuration control. >
802-1 Clinical Value and Cost of Screening Exercise Treadmill Testing in Asymptomatic Individuals

Background Exercise treadmill testing (ETT) is frequently performed to screen for coronary artery disease (CAD) in asymptomatic individuals; however, its clinical value is questionable. Methods To evaluate the clinical value of ETT, we examined a cohort of asymptomatic individuals undergoing ETT at the Cleveland Clinic between September 1990 and December 1993. ETT was abnormal if it exhibited any of the following; a 1 mm ST-T elevation or depression, a drop in blood pressure ≥10 mmHg, chest pain or failure to reach a target heart rate. Any CAD was defined by at least 1 coronary segment with ≥50% stenosis. Severe CAD was defined by the following: 1) left main coronary artery with ≥50% stenosis, 2) 3 vessels with ≥70% stenosis or 3) proximal left anterior descending artery and 2 vessels with ≥70% stenosis. Results During this period, 4335 ETT's were performed in individuals with no cardiac symptoms. The average age was 53, 89% were male and 16% had at least one cardiac risk factor. Fifteen percent exhibited an abnormal ETT. Among those with an abnormal ETT, 14% underwent coronary angiography while among those with a negative ETT, 1% underwent angiography. Coronary angiography identified 56% as having any CAD and 15% as having severe CAD. In this asymptomatic population, 228 ETT's and 7 coronary angiograms were performed in order to identify 1 individual with severe CAD. Using Medicare reimbursement of $70 for ETT and $1500 for angiography, the cost of screening per case of severe CAD identified would be $26,460. Based on previously published data on survival with surgical and medical therapy in patients with severe CAD, we estimate a cost of $120,000 to $180,000 per year of life saved with this screening approach. Conclusion This low yield suggests that screening asymptomatic individuals with ETT may be costly and of little clinical value compared to other screening approaches.
Systemic and intraluteal infusion of inhibin A or activin A in rhesus monkeys during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.

The endocrine or local actions of inhibin-related peptides synthesized by the primate corpus luteum (CL) remain undefined. This in vivo study was designed to determine whether exogenous inhibin or activin modulates pituitary gonadotropin secretion and the functional life span of the CL during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Beginning at midluteal phase of the cycle, either vehicle or 1 rAg/h of recombinant human inhibin A or activin A (n = 3-6 per treatment group) was infused into rhesus monkeys via the jugular vein (i.e., peripheral infusion) or directly into the CL (i.e., intraluteal infusion) by means of an osmotic minipump for 7-14 days. Daily samples of saphenous venous serum were assayed for estradiol (E) and progesterone (P) content by RIA, and for FSH and LH levels by bioassay. Intraluteal infusion of inhibin or activin did not alter circulating P levels or the length of the luteal phase compared to those values in vehicle-infused controls. Likewise, LH levels were not different between the three groups. However, FSH levels declined progressively during inhibin infusion to 26% of pretreatment levels (p < 0.05), whereas FSH levels in vehicle-infused controls were unchanged for several days and then rose (p < 0.05) to peak levels around menses. FSH levels did not change significantly during activin infusion into the CL. Although similar results were obtained in monkeys receiving peripheral or intraluteal infusions of inhibin, events following the peripheral infusion of activin were markedly different from those during intraluteal administration. Peripheral activin treatment caused a sustained reduction in serum LH and P levels (p < 0.05) and shortened the length of the luteal phase compared to that in control cycles (9.2 ± 0.3 vs. 14.7 ± 1.3 days, p < 0.05). The data provide the first evidence that exogenous inhibin selectively suppresses FSH levels in primates during the mid-to-late luteal phase of the menstrual cycle without altering the functional life span of the CL. In contrast, exogenous activin infused systemically caused rapid, premature regression of the CL Since intraluteal infusion did not alter luteal function, peripheral actions, including suppression of LH (but not FSH) levels, may be implicated in the luteolytic effect of activin.
Measurement of Cloud Perturbation Pressures Using an Instrumented Aircraft

AbstractVertical accelerations during the early stages of convective cloud formation are often the result of buoyancy and the perturbation vertical pressure gradient forces. Convection modifies the local pressure field surrounding the cloud. Measurement of the cloud perturbation pressure field is challenging over distance scales on the order of the convective elements, since the signals are often small and the turbulent environment complicates the measurement of static pressure. A technique is described that enables detection of the horizontal pressure perturbations associated with evolving convective clouds using global positioning system measurements on an airborne platform. Differential kinematic processing of data from dual-frequency, carrier-phase-tracking GPS receivers on research aircraft with static base station receivers enables the three-dimensional aircraft position to be resolved within decimeters. Vertical positioning and precise measurement of static pressure allow horizontal pressure pertur...
Structure and Dynamics of UDP–Glucose Pyrophosphorylase from Arabidopsis thaliana with Bound UDP–Glucose and UTP

Abstract The structure of the UDP–glucose pyrophosphorylase encoded by Arabidopsis thaliana gene At3g03250 has been solved to a nominal resolution of 1.86 A. In addition, the structure has been solved in the presence of the substrates/products UTP and UDP–glucose to nominal resolutions of 1.64 A and 1.85 A. The three structures revealed a catalytic domain similar to that of other nucleotidyl-glucose pyrophosphorylases with a carboxy-terminal β-helix domain in a unique orientation. Conformational changes are observed between the native and substrate-bound complexes. The nucleotide-binding loop and the carboxy-terminal domain, including the suspected catalytically important Lys360, move in and out of the active site in a concerted fashion. TLS refinement was employed initially to model conformational heterogeneity in the UDP–glucose complex followed by the use of multiconformer refinement for the entire molecule. Normal mode analysis generated atomic displacement predictions in good agreement in magnitude and direction with the observed conformational changes and anisotropic displacement parameters generated by TLS refinement. The structures and the observed dynamic changes provide insight into the ordered mechanism of this enzyme and previously described oligomerization effects on catalytic activity.
Acquisition of Hormone-independent Growth in MCF-7 Cells Is Accompanied by Increased Expression of Estrogen-regulated Genes but Without Detectable DNA Amplifications

Abstract A hormone-independent but hormone-responsive subpopulation (MCF7/MIII) of the hormone-dependent MCF-7 human breast cancer cell line (R. Clarke et al. , Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 86: 3649–3653, 1989) was further passaged in ovariectomized nude mice and re-established in vitro as the continuous cell line MCF7/LCC1. The lag time to the appearance of proliferating tumors in ovariectomized animals is significantly reduced in MCF7/LCC1 when compared with MCF7/MIII cells. In gel denaturation/renaturation analysis of tumor, genomic DNA does not reveal significant differences in the pattern of detectable DNA amplifications between parent MCF-7 cells and MCF7/LCC1 cells. In the absence of estrogen, steadystate levels of phosphoinositol turnover are similar in both MCF-7 and MCF7/LCC1 cells, but turnover is increased by estrogen only in MCF-7 cells. MCF7/MIII and MCF7/LCC1, but not MCF-7 cells, express a high baseline level of the estrogen-regulated pS2 mRNA. The baseline level of expression of progesterone receptor protein, but not mRNA, is higher in MCF7/LCC1 when compared with either MCF-7 or early passage MCF7/MIII cells. However, while the estrogen receptor is also an estrogen-regulated gene, MCF7/MIII and MCF7/LCC1 cells retain estrogen receptor levels equivalent to the parental MCF-7 cells. These data indicate that progression to hormone independence can occur without major gene amplifications or a high constitutive induction of phosphoinositide metabolism. Thus, DNA amplifications may be acquired during the early initiation and/or promotional events of carcinogenesis. Significantly, acquisition of a hormone-independent but responsive phenotype in human breast cancer is associated with perturbations in the expression of specific estrogen-regulated genes. The costs of publication of this article were defrayed in part by the payment of page charges. This article must therefore be hereby marked advertisement in accordance with 18 U.S.C. Section 1734 solely to indicate this fact.
The roles of geography and founder effects in promoting host-associated differentiation in the generalist bogus yucca moth Prodoxus decipiens

There is ample evidence that host shifts in plant-feeding insects have been instrumental in generating the enormous diversity of insects. Changes in host use can cause host-associated differentiation (HAD) among populations that may lead to reproductive isolation and eventual speciation. The importance of geography in facilitating this process remains controversial. We examined the geographic context of HAD in the wide-ranging generalist yucca moth Prodoxus decipiens. Previous work demonstrated HAD among sympatric moth populations feeding on two different Yucca species occurring on the barrier islands of North Carolina, USA. We assessed the genetic structure of P. decipiens across its entire geographic and host range to determine whether HAD is widespread in this generalist herbivore. Population genetic analyses of microsatellite and mtDNA sequence data across the entire range showed genetic structuring with respect to host use and geography. In particular, genetic differentiation was relatively strong between mainland populations and those on the barrier islands of North Carolina. Finer scale analyses, however, among sympatric populations using different host plant species only showed significant clustering based on host use for populations on the barrier islands. Mainland populations did not form population clusters based on host plant use. Reduced genetic diversity in the barrier island populations, especially on the derived host, suggests that founder effects may have been instrumental in facilitating HAD. In general, results suggest that the interplay of local adaptation, geography and demography can determine the tempo of HAD. We argue that future studies should include comprehensive surveys across a wide range of environmental and geographic conditions to elucidate the contribution of various processes to HAD.
WLC30-4: Static Channel Assignment in Multi-radio Multi-Channel 802.11 Wireless Mesh Networks: Issues, Metrics and Algorithms

The combination of multiple radio nodes in con junction with a suitably structured multi-hop or mesh architecture has the potential to solve some of the key limitations of present day wireless access networks that are based on single-radio nodes. This paper addresses the static channel assignment problem for multi-channel multi-radio static wireless mesh networks. We present four metrics based on which mesh channel assignments can be obtained. In particular, we focus on minimization of the average and maximum collision domain sizes and show that these problems are closely related to problems in combinatorial optimization such as MAX k-CUT and MIN k- PARTITION. We also present heuristic algorithms for solving the channel assignment problems using the above two metrics.
PM2.5-induced cardiovascular dysregulation in rats is associated with elemental carbon and temperature-resolved carbon subfractions

We tested the hypothesis that cardiovascular responses to PM2.5 exposure will be enhanced in hypertensive rats and linked to specific carbonaceous pollutants in an urban industrial setting. Spontaneously hypertensive rats were exposed by inhalation to concentrated PM2.5 in an industrial area of Dearborn, Michigan, for four consecutive summer days. Blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR) and HR variability (HRV) metrics (SDNN, RMSSD) were assessed by radiotelemetry and compared to 1 h- and 8 h-averaged fluctuations in PM2.5 composition, with a focus on elemental and organic carbon (EC and OC, respectively), and temperature-resolved subfractions (EC1-EC5, PC (pyrolized carbon), and OC1-OC4), as well as other major and minor PM components. Mean HR and BP were increased, while HRV was decreased over 4 days of exposure. Using 1 h averages, EC (1 μg/m3 increase) was associated with increased HR of 11-32 bpm (4-11% increase), 1.2-1.5 ms (22-27%) decreases in SDNN, 3-14 mmHg (1.5-8%) increases in systolic BP, and 5-12 mmHg (4-9%) increases in diastolic BP. By comparison, associations with OC were negligible. Using 8 h averages, EC subfractions were linked with increased heart rate (EC1: 13 bpm; EC2, EC3, PC: > EC2 > EC3, EC4, PC), but with decreased RMSSD (EC2, EC5 > EC3, EC4). Minimal effects were associated with OC and OC1. Associations between carbon subfractions and BP were negligible. Associations with non-carbonaceous components and trace elements were generally non-significant or of negligible effect size. These findings are the first to describe associations between acute cardiovascular responses and thermally resolved carbon subfractions. We report that cardiovascular responses to PM2.5 carbonaceous materials appear to be driven by EC and its EC1 fraction.
Kinematics and Performance Capacity for the Concertina Locomotion of a Snake (Coluber Constrictor)

We used a motorized treadmill to determine the endurance (from 4.2 to 5.6 cm s −1 ) and burst speed of five Coluber constrictor Linnaeus performing concertina locomotion in tunnels 3, 5 and 7 cm wide. The snakes had greatest average endurance at 4.2 cm s −1 within the 5cm wide tunnel (80 min), and the average endurance of snakes moving in the 3 cm tunnel (24 min) was significantly lower than that observed for either the 5 or 7 cm tunnel at the same speed. In contrast to endurance capacity, there was no statistically significant effect of tunnel width on burst speed, and mean values ranged from 13.5 to 16.8 cm s −1 The fastest burst speed observed was 20.8 cm s −1 in a 7 cm tunnel. Analysis of variance on kinematic variables measured from videotapes made of the endurance trials revealed highly significant effects of both speed and tunnel width on kinematics. As the tread speed increased among different endurance trials, the snakes primarily increased the frequency of movements and increased the average forward speed during the moving phase. However, the snakes did not significantly alter either the distance moved per cycle or the proportion of time spent moving in response to different tread speeds used in the endurance trials. Decreased tunnel width caused snakes (1) to move a smaller distance per cycle, (2) to use more regions of static contact with the sides of the tunnel, and (3) to orient the convoluted portions of the body at a smaller angle relative to the sides of the tunnel. Decreased tunnel width did not affect the average forward speed during the moving phase. Hence, tread speed and tunnel width affected different kinematic variables. Significant changes in kinematics did not always cause significant changes in locomotor performance capacity.
Minimally invasive video-assisted thyroidectomy for treatment of benign solitary thyroid nodules in pediatric patients.

Objective: To review our experience with minimally invasive video-assisted thyroid (MIVAT) surgery for solitary thyroid nodules in the pediatric population. Study Design: Case series. Methods: A chart review of pediatric patients with a solitary thyroid nodule who underwent a MIVAT procedure from July 2008 to December 2009. Eligible patients had a solitary thyroid nodule less than 3.5 cm. Endpoints of the study included completion of the procedure, an assessment of related complications, and subjective patient satisfaction with respect to cosmesis. Results: Two female patients (ages 12 and 17) underwent a MIVAT for right-sided solitary thyroid nodules (2.1 cm and 3.3 cm, respectively). Technical success was 100% with no conversions to open thyroidectomy. The operative times were 180 minutes and 150 minutes, respectively. Pathology was benign in both cases (follicular adenoma and nodular hyperplasia, respectively). Neither patient had a surgical drain placed, and both were discharged home after a 23-hour observation. A postoperative flexible laryngoscopy confirmed bilateral vocal cord mobility. There were no major complications, and the patients and parents were satisfied with the cosmesis. Conclusion: MIVAT is a feasible and safe option for the management of solitary thyroid nodules in children.
Assessing Feigned Cognitive Impairment in Defendants Hospitalized for Competency Restoration: Further Validation of the TOMI

Valid screens for feigned cognitive impairment are a fundamental component of any forensic assessment. The TOMI is a verbally administered, two-alternative forced-choice screen for feigned cognitive impairment in competence to stand trial (CST) evaluations. The present study provided further validation for the use of this tool in a sample of 82 forensic inpatients, the second investigation of the TOMI in a real-world, psycholegal context. Using three independent external criteria—the Test of Memory Malingering (TOMM) Trial 2 score, TOMM Retention Trial score, and a clinical treatment team decision—and these combined criteria—the Legal Knowledge scale (TOMI-L) evidenced high levels of sensitivity and specificity and excellent negative predictive power (NPP). The General Knowledge scale (TOMI-G) demonstrated poor sensitivity but high specificity and NPP. The authors discuss the utility of both scales in guiding and streamlining more thorough assessments of response styles in CST evaluations.
It Gets Crowded With an Elephant and an Ape in the Room Teaching About Female and Male Cognitive Differences and Similarities

It is important to understand the many controversies about cognitive sex differences because beliefs about these differences are often used to justify pubic policies and individual actions. As teac...
A placebo controlled randomized trial of the effects of phenylpropanolamine and nicotine gum on cessation rates and postcessation weight gain in women

With smoking prevalence rates beginning to decline, studies designed to promote cessation in more challenging populations, like weight-concerned smokers, warrant attention. This study assessed the efficacy of two forms of pharmacotherapy [nicotine and phenylpropanolamine (PPA) gums] in addition to a 13-week cognitive behavioral smoking cessation program targeted for women. Participants were 439 females who met rigorous screening criteria and were randomized to one of the three treatment intervention groups (PPA gum, nicotine gum, or placebo gum). All participants attended a 13-week cognitive behavioral smoking cessation program and were given specific instructions on gum chewing. At posttest (13 weeks), and 6- and 12-month follow-ups, body weight and point prevalence abstinence were assessed. Analyses to determine potential differences between treatment groups on weight change and cessation rates were performed. Results indicated that neither change in body weight nor cessation rates significantly differed between groups. Attendance to sessions did appear to consistently increase the likelihood of quitting smoking at posttest and at each of the follow-ups. These results suggest that although the pharmacological interventions had no effect on cessation rates and postcessation weight gain, the behavioral component of the intervention was effective in increasing the odds of quitting smoking in weight-concerned women. Future efforts should focus on increasing adherence to behavioral program components, particularly session attendance.
A linear-time eigenvalue solver for finite-element-based analysis of large-scale wave propagation problems in on-chip interconnect structures

In this paper the analysis and design of next-generation VLSI circuits using accurate electromagnetics-based models result in numerical problems of very large scale is presented. Typically, the solution of a problem with N parameters requires at least O(N) computation. With next generation VLSI circuits, however, even O(N) is prohibitively high since N is very large. The method that partially addresses this issue was developed for full-wave modeling of large-scale interconnect structures. In this method, a number of seeds (a seed has a unique cross section) are first recognized from an interconnect structure. In each seed, the original wave propagation problem is represented as a generalized eigenvalue problem. The complexity of solving 3D interconnects of O(N) is then overcome by seeking the solution of a few 2D seeds, which is then post-processed to obtain the solution of the original 3D problem through the development of an on-chip mode-matching technique. The computational bottleneck is the solution of a generalized eigenvalue problem. Efficient algorithms such as ARPACK [2] still require O(M2) storage and operations due to a dense matrix-vector multiplication. We present an algorithm that provides a solution to the generalized eigenvalue problem with O(M) complexity, thus paving the way for the full-wave simulation of next generation VLSI circuits.
Elliptic curve cryptography on smart cards without coprocessors

This contribution describes how an elliptic curve cryptosystem can be implemented on very low cost microprocessors with reasonable performance. We focus in this paper on the Intel 8051 family of microcontrollers popular in smart cards and other cost-sensitive devices. The implementation is based on the use of the finite field GF((28 – 17)17) which is particularly suited for low end 8-bit processors. Two advantages of our method are that subfield modular reduction can be performed infrequently, and that an adaption of Itoh and Tsujii’s inversion algorithm is used for the group operation. We show that an elliptic curve scalar multiplication with a fixed point, which is the core operation for a signature generation, can be performed in a group of order approximately 2134 in less than 2 seconds Unlike other implementations, we do not make use of curves defined over a subfield such as Koblitz curves.
The Stigma of Disabilities and the Americans with Disabilities Act

Recently, as I was waiting to board a plane, I heard the gate agent make the following announcement: “If you have a disability and need assistance, please come to the podium at this time.” I had never heard the boarding announcement stated in quite this way before, which seemed to require individuals to declare that they had a disability in order to board the plane earlier than other passengers. It sounded so odd to me and I wondered why the airline felt comfortable placing the requirement in the form of a disability. Surely, they would never have said, “If you are black … or if you are a woman, if you are gay,” or “If you are elderly,” even though the elderly often need boarding assistance. Why, I wondered, did they believe it was acceptable to label someone as disabled? I wanted to go to the podium to express my concern, but as Paul Miller (2007) has noted, I did not even have a vocabulary to express my displeasure. Unlike racism, sexism, homophobia, or ageism, there is no word to describe discriminatory attitudes based on disability. At the time, the best I could come up with was that the airline was being insensitive but that word felt wholly inadequate.
May I Introduce You to Your Lawyer? How We Built the Legal Resources We Will Need

This article, written for the magazine of the ABA Senior Lawyers Division, provides a comprehensive overview of the growth of elder law, from the teaching of elder law to law students and lawyers, to the development of professional organizations focused on elder law. It provides information, also, about international elder law developments, multidisciplinary work in elder law, improvements to the judicial system related to aging, and policy work in the field of law and aging.