cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sweeping lymph node micrometastases off their feet: an engineered model to evaluate natural killer cell mediated therapeutic intervention of circulating tumor cells that disseminate to the lymph nodes

Approximately 90% of cancer related deaths are due to metastasis. Cells from the primary tumor can metastasize through either the vascular or lymphatic circulation. Cancer cells in circulation are called circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and it has been shown that bone marrow is a niche for homing of blood borne CTCs from several epithelial tumors. Cancer cells found in bone marrow are termed disseminated tumor cells (DTCs). Likewise, CTCs in the lymphatic circulation are more often seeded in the sentinel lymph nodes (SLN) that drain the tumor. Micrometastases (<2 mm) occur after the arrest and implantation of DTCs in lymph nodes over time. This paper presents a cell culture platform termed microbubbles formed in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) from a microfabricated silicon wafer for mimicking lymph node micrometastases. We cultured lymph node seeking cancer cells in microbubbles to evaluate the efficacy of natural killer (NK) mediated therapy for targeting lymph node micrometastasis. The microbubble platform consists of an array of microcavities that provides a unique microenvironment for mimicking the deep cortical unit of the lymph nodes. We show that cancer cells cultured in microbubbles with therapeutic NK cells undergo apoptosis after 24 h in culture. Since lymph node metastases are prevalent across several types of cancer, this platform may be useful for developing improved cancer therapies for targeting lymph node micrometastases.
The response of human B lymphocytes to oligodeoxynucleotides.

ISS induce T cell-independent polyclonal activation of human B cell by engaging surface Ig. Manifestations of ISS-induced human B cell activation include expression of activation markers, proliferation, and Ig production as well as anti-DNA antibody production. IL-2, IL-6 and intact T cells enhanced B cell responses to ISS, but were not required for B cell activation. Human monocytes enhanced B cell responses induced by ISS, particularly Ig secretion. The chemical nature of sODNs capable of stimulating human B cells has not been completely delineated. Further studies will be necessary and important for developing novel therapeutic and preventive agents in humans using ISS.
Evidence of protein transduction but not intercellular transport by proteins fused to HIV tat in retinal cell culture and in vivo

The human immunodeficiency virus type-1 Tat protein is known to exit virally infected cells and enter the nucleus of adjacent uninfected cells. This property has been mapped to an 11-amino-acid protein transduction domain (PTD). When the PTD of Tat is fused to heterologous proteins and added exogenously to cells, the fusion peptide is able to demonstrate protein transduction across plasma membranes. Recent reports indicate that endogenously expressed Tat fusion peptides can demonstrate intercellular transport and improve biodistribution of therapeutic protein in the context of adenovirus vectors. Intercellular transport and protein transduction have not been observed in some studies and in the former have been attributed to an artifact of fixation. We have attempted to resolve these studies using an approach that unambiguously distinguishes cells that express Tat fusion protein from those that receive it from their environment. We find no evidence of intercellular transport in the context of an adenovirus vector in cell culture or in vivo. Instead, we find that Tat fusion peptides are down regulated in terms of expression not only in the context of adenovirus vectors, but also when expressed from transfected plasmid DNA. However, when Tat fusion peptides are released from cells by degradation of the plasma membrane, the fusion peptides demonstrate protein transduction without the need for cell fixation, indicating a unidirectional transport of Tat fusion proteins across the plasma membrane. Our data are consistent with previously reported studies and help to explain the apparently different results obtained from several different laboratories.
DSP with FPGAs: A Xilinx/Simulink-based Course and Laboratory

This is the third paper in a series that introduces a MatLab/Simulink-based design flow for FPGAs at an undergraduate curriculum level. In the first paper presented at SPIE 2006 we analyzed the design tools, while in the second paper presented at SPIE 2007 we reported on the appropriate topics for the lectures and labs. In this third paper we first give an overview based on the 12-year EDA cycle on why FPGAs have now reached a level where SOPC design is possible and why MatLab/Simulink is favored by both leaders in the FPGA field: Altera (DSP builder) and Xilinx (System Generator). We then describe the Xilinx Blackboard educational material development (EMD) that has been used in Spring 2007 and Spring 2008 to teach a Xilinx System Generator based course and laboratory.
Preventing Ventilator-Associated Pneumonias

RESULTS: Indwelling urinary catheters were used for 33% of patient days on the gynecologic surgical unit. Eight patients on this unit met the criteria for symptomatic CA-UTI for a rate of 4.9/1,000 catheter days. The average duration of catheterization prior to infection was 8.5 days compared with 2.8 days total for uninfected patients (p 5 0.0019). 57% of uninfected patients in this sample had catheters for $ 3 days. In the medical oncology unit, indwelling urinary catheters were used in 11% of patient days. Seven patients on this unit met the criteria for symptomatic CA-UTI for a rate of 10.6/1,000 catheter days. The average duration of catheterization prior to infection was 25.8 days compared with 8.9 days total for uninfected patients (p 5 0.0168).
Attenuation of osteoarthritis progression by reduction of discoidin domain receptor 2 in mice

Objective To investigate whether the reduction of discoidin domain receptor 2 (DDR-2), a cell membrane tyrosine kinase receptor for native type II collagen, attenuates the progression of articular cartilage degeneration in mouse models of osteoarthritis (OA). Methods Double-heterozygous (type XI collagen–deficient [Col11a1+/−] and Ddr2-deficient [Ddr2+/−]) mutant mice were generated. Knee joints of Ddr2+/− mice were subjected to microsurgical destabilization of the medial meniscus. Conditions of the articular cartilage from the knee joints of the double-heterozygous mutant and surgically treated mice were examined by histology, evaluated using a modified Mankin scoring system, and characterized by immunohistochemistry. Results The rate of progressive degeneration in knee joints was dramatically reduced in the double-heterozygous mutant mice compared with that in the type XI collagen–deficient mice. The progression in the double-heterozygous mutant mice was delayed by ∼6 months. Following surgical destabilization of the medial meniscus, the progressive degeneration toward OA was dramatically delayed in the Ddr2+/− mice compared with that in their wild-type littermates. The articular cartilage damage present in the knee joints of the mice was directly correlated with the expression profiles of DDR-2 and matrix metalloproteinase 13. Conclusion Reduction of DDR-2 expression attenuates the articular cartilage degeneration of knee joints induced either by type XI collagen deficiency or by surgical destabilization of the medial meniscus.
Transfer base for removable partial dentures

Abstract The transfer base described in this technique will be more comfortable to the tissues and will accurately coincide with the position the base will occupy on the cast, upon which the restorations will be fabricated (Figs. 7 and 8).
Hunting behaviour, prey capture and ant avoidance in the tropical social waspPolybia sevicea (Hymenoptera: Vespidae)

Polybia sericea (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) prey foraging was studied by following individual foragers as they hunted in the field, by observing how wasps handled prey once they had captured it, and by observing wasps as they returned to the nest with prey. Wasps were most likely to forage for prey between 0700 and 1300 hours and between 1600 and 1700 hours. The prey foraging sequence consisted of the behaviours high flight, search, touch, land, groom, walk, bite and malaxate. Captured small prey were malaxated and carried to the nest. Wasps removed the gut from large prey and dragged the meat up a twig or grass stem. A load of the meat was then bitten off and malaxated; the remainder was cached while the wasp made an orientation flight and returned to the nest. The forager returned within minutes for the remainder of the prey. Experiments demonstrated that caching the prey remains above the ground rather than close to the ground, where the prey are generally captured, reduces the chance that the prey will be found and expropriated by ants.
GENETIC DIFFERENTIATION AMONG CHEWING LOUSE POPULATIONS (MALLOPHAGA: TRICHODECTIDAE) IN A POCKET GOPHER CONTACT ZONE (RODENTIA: GEOMYIDAE)

Genetic variation among populations of chewing lice (Geomydoecus actuosi) was examined in relation to chromosomal and electrophoretic variation among populations of their hosts (Thomomys bottae) at a contact zone. Louse demes were characterized by low levels of genetic heterozygosity (H = 0.039) that may result from founder effects during primary infestation of hosts, compounded by seasonal reductions in louse population size. Louse populations sampled from different hosts showed high levels of genetic structuring both within and among host localities. Microgeographic differentiation of louse populations is high (mean FST = 0.092) suggesting that properties of this host-parasite system promote differentiation of louse populations living on different individual hosts. Among-population differentiation in lice (FST = 0.240) was similar to that measured among host populations (FST = 0.236), suggesting a close association between gene flow in pocket gophers and gene flow in their lice.
Phylogeny and evolutionary rates of G protein α subunit genes

Rooted phylogenetic trees for a total of 34 genes encoding the stimulatory (sα), inhibitory (iα), transducin (tα), Gx (xα), Gz (zα), G11 (α11), G12 (α12), G13 (α13), G16 (α16), Gq (qα), and other (oα) G protein a subunits have been constructed. The analysis shows that the G12 (α12 and α13), Gq (α11, α16, and qα), and Gs (sα genes) groups form one cluster, and the Gx (xα and zα genes), Gi (iα genes), Gt (tα1 and tα2), and Go (oα genes) groups form another cluster. During mammalian evolution, the rates of synonymous substitutions for these genes were estimated to be between 1.77 × 10−9/site/year and 5.63 × 10−9/site/year, whereas those of nonsynonymous substitutions were between 0.008 × 10−9/site/year and 0.067 × 10−9/site/year. These evolutionary rates are similar to those for histone genes, suggesting equally important biological functions of the G protein a subunits.
Characterizing Lapine Meniscal Tissue: A Regional Comparison Between Normal Medial and Lateral Menisci

The meniscus is comprised of two semilunar disks resting between the articular surface of the tibial plateaus and femoral condyles within the knee joint of each leg [1–3]. Both the medial and lateral menisci play a vital role in maintaining the joint’s integrity by distributing loads, stabilizing and lubricating the joint, and proprioceptive functions [2,3]. While the meniscus is found in many animals, morphological variations are present between species, indicating differences in the biomechanics of the joint [1,2]. These anatomical variations have not been quantified and, thus, remain unlinked to further structural changes that occur with injury. The goals of this study were aimed towards characterizing the normal lapine meniscal tissue using regional comparisons for tissue area and cell density measurements. The preliminary data from this research will be used as a comparison against future animal injury models. It was hypothesized that a difference would be observed between anterior, central, and posterior divisions in the normal lapine meniscus.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Interactive preprocessors for SAP IV, NASTRAN, and ADINA in the teaching environment

Input data preparation in general is the main chore in finite element analysis. Interactive preprocessors can provide the engineer with an easy guide and efficient method of communicating the mathematical model to the computer. Essentially the same modeling information has to be supplied to all finite element programs. A preprocessor can be made to accommodate internally the input data variations peculiar to each finite element program. Learning to model on one finite element program may then be adequate to allow the engineer to prepare data for other finite element programs through a well planned preprocessor. Three such preprocessors, PREMSAP, PNASTRAN and PADINA, have been developed in Fortran for SAP IV, NASTRAN and ADINA respectively. Typical interactive conversations of these, and their output, are presented here for a 3D bracket, and may be compared. These preprocessors, coupled with a graphics package, proved very useful in training students in finite element analysis in class study, as well as with engineers and researchers in their work.
A note on symmetric utility rules for gambles

Abstract Meginniss has proposed a new component for expected utility rules which would measure a gambler's ‘pure joy of gambling’. In this paper, a result of Ng is used to derive the expected- utility-plus-entropy rules of Meginniss and a new (non-additive) symmetric utility rule.
Regioselective mannich reactions via trimethylsilyl enol ethers

Abstract Site-specific reactions of trimethylsilyl enolates and trimethylsilyldienolates are described.
Oxidative stress and cardiac disease

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are formed at an accelerated rate in postischemic myocardium. Cardiac myocytes, endothelial cells, and infiltrating neutrophils contribute to this ROS production. Exposure of these cellular components of the myocardium to exogenous ROS can lead to cellular dysfunction and necrosis. While it remains uncertain whether ROS contribute to the pathogenesis of myocardial infarction, there is strong support for ROS as mediators of the reversible ventricular dysfunction (stunning) that often accompanies reperfusion of the ischemic myocardium. The therapeutic potential of free radical-directed drugs in cardiac disease has not been fully realized.
Automated multi-objective optimization system for airport site layouts

Airport construction planners often face the problem of identifying optimal locations for temporary construction facilities on site, as the planned locations of these facilities usually influence important and conflicting planning objectives such as improving the efficiency of construction operations and maintaining safety on site. Careful evaluation of all feasible locations for temporary facilities and the selection of an optimal layout are needed in order to achieve these multiple important objectives. This paper presents the development of a practical automated system to optimize multiple conflicting planning objectives and provide all possible optimal tradeoff solutions among these objectives. The system is implemented and integrated in four main modules: (1) a comprehensive multi-objective optimization engine that integrates and optimizes construction work zone safety, construction-related aviation safety, construction-related airport security, and all relevant site layout costs; (2) a relational database that integrates planning data and stores all the generated optimal solutions; (3) an Input/Output module to facilitate specifying planning and optimization parameters and retrieving the generated optimal site layout solutions; and (4) a visualization module that communicates with external CAD software in order to support the visualization of the generated optimal site layout plans.
The Benefits of In-Class Bibliographic Instruction.

Because students demonstrate deficient knowledge of basic reference tools in the discipline, there is a need for bibliographic instruction by librarians in the psychology classroom. Such instruction can introduce the types and variety of reference works, present the process of topic definition, and strengthen the role of the librarian in the literature-search process.
The fatty acids of menhaden oil

Analysis of the fractions obtained as a result of distillation of the methyl esters of the hydrogenated acids of menhaden oil show the amounts indicated (wt. %): C14, 6.9; C16, 30.4; C18, 26.8; C20, 17.5; C22, 10.8; C24, 4.0; C26, 1.2; above C26, 2.4. In addition, about 0.1% of C12 acids was demonstrated previously.
Calculated melt and restite compositions of some Australian granites

The thermodynamic relations embodied in the Quasicrystalline Model of Burnham and Nekvasil (1986), as recently extended by the author, have been used to quantitatively assess the feldspar-quartz liquidus relations in two I-type (Jindabyne and Moruya) and two S-type (Bullenbalong and Dalgety) suites of Australian granites, using analytical data provided by B. W. Chappell and co-workers. Among the more notable results obtained from these calculations at a constant pressure of 5.0 kbar and X w m =0.30 (≃2.8 wt% H 2 O), for purposes of comparison, are that: (1) felsic melts of remarkably uniform, but distinctive composition can be extracted from each suite, leaving solid residues in amounts up to 65 mol%
40-Gbit/s Optical Data Exchange between WDM Channels Using Second-Order Nonlinearities in PPLN Waveguides

We demonstrate 40-Gbit/s optical data exchange between WDM channels based on second-order nonlinearities in a periodically-poled Lithium-niobate (PPLN) waveguide. Channel-selective data exchange of four WDM signals is shown, which introduces ~4 dB penalty.
Cyclosporine induces elevated procollagen α1 (I) mRNA levels in the rat renal cortex

Cyclosporine induces elevated procollagen α1 (I) mRNA levels in the rat renal cortex. Chronic cyclosporine nephrotoxicity is a poorly understood drug side-effect characterized by renal cortical interstitial scarring. To evaluate procollagen mRNA levels as an early factor in the development of this form of renal fibrosis, we measured renal procollagen alpha 1 (I), alpha 1 (III), alpha 1 (IV) and β-actin mRNA levels in rats treated with cyclosporine (CsA) or the olive oil vehicle (OO) for one or four weeks. Renal morphology was similar without atrophy or fibrosis in one week CsA and OO and four week OO rats. Four week CsA rats had focal cortical interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy. Cortical procollagen alpha 1 (I) mRNA levels were increased in CsA versus OO rats at one week (P
Case of bilateral non-Hodgkin's lymphoma after dental extractions in a patient with the human immunodeficiency virus

It has long been known that immunocompromised patients have an increased risk of getting malignant neoplasms, with lymphomas predominating. This increase in lymphomas is especially notable in the population infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Before the outbreak of the human immunodeficiency virus these neoplasms rarely occurred in the maxillofacial region; they are now being seen with a greater frequency. This report details a case of bilateral non-Hodgkin's lymphoma that was initially misdiagnosed as an odontogenic infection.
Smoking abstinence after hospitalization: predictors of success.

Abstract Background. Our objective was to explore the relationship between baseline characteristics of hospitalized smokers and 6-month to 2-year self-reported quit rates. Methods. We surveyed adult smokers (n = 154) admitted to the Medicine service of an urban public hospital. We used the pharmacy database, a follow-up telephone survey, and medical records to characterize nicotine patch use and post-discharge smoking abstinence. Results. Among the 102 patients for whom smoking status at least 6 months after discharge was known, 18 (18%) were not smoking at last contact (mean follow-up 20 months). Individual factors associated with quitting include confidence to quit within 1 week, stage of change other than precontemplation, filling a nicotine patch prescription after discharge, number of previous quit attempts, and increasing age. With multivariate modeling, only confidence to quit [OR 9.8, confidence interval (CI), 2.8–35.0] and the number of previous quit attempts (OR 1.3 per attempt, 95% CI, 1.0–1.5) remained significantly associated with future abstinence. Conclusions. A high level of confidence to quit and multiple prior quit attempts are strongly associated with future abstinence among hospitalized patients who smoke. Using a simple confidence-to-quit scale to target interventions to patients with high confidence may improve the effectiveness of smoking cessation programs.
Laparoscopic excision of an antenatally diagnosed large simple hepatic cyst in the newborn

Non-parasitic hepatic cysts are rare in infants and children. Advances in antenatal imaging have improved their detection, while development of laparoscopic techniques has expanded options for treatment. We present a case of an antenatally diagnosed non-parasitic hepatic cyst in a neonate, which was successfully excised laparoscopically with no recurrence.
Honeydew analysis for detecting phloem transport of plant natural products : Implications for host-plant resistance to sap-sucking insects.

Analysis of honeydew excreted by various sap-sucking insects indicated the presence of certain plant secondary constituents in the phloem of their host plants. Honeydew excreted by mealybugs (Pseudococcus longispinus), living onCastanospermum australe, contained the indolizidine alkaloid castanospermine, a potent β-glucosidase inhibitor. Similarly, honeydew from green peach aphids (Myzus persicae), feeding onSenecio vulgaris flower buds, contained the pyrrolizidine alkaloid senecionine, itsN-oxide, and hydrolytic products including retronecine. Cardenolides were detected in the honeydew of oleander aphids (Aphis nerii) feeding on oleander (Nerium oleander), indicating that these compounds are translocated in the phloem. On the other hand, honeydew from greenbugs (Schizaphis graminum), feeding on barley, lacked gramine or related indole metabolites. Similarly MBOA, the breakdown product of DIMBOA, was not detected in the honeydew of greenbugs living on DIMBOA-containing wheat.
Energy Deposition and Expansion Rates of Single 15 μm Modulated and Un-Modulated Aluminum Wires

Summary form only given. Single aluminum wires, 15 μm in diameter and 2 cm in length, were driven by the Cornell LCP3 pulse generator, which nominally produced 1 kA, 200 ns current pulses with rise times ranging from 15 to 100 ns. Both positive and negative polarities were investigated. Wires with both an axially uniform radius and a periodic axial modulation of the radius were studied. The modulated wires were characterized by a 15% modulation of the radius, and a 4 mm modulation wavelength. Measurements of the energy deposited and of the peak voltages obtained were acquired from current and voltage monitors. Laser backlighting enabled observation of the radial expansion process. As a result, radial expansion rates were determined, along with the degree of axial uniformity of the radial expansion along the wires
Constraining the discourse community: How science discourse perpetuates marginalization of underrepresented students

Abstract This ethnographic study examines how lower-track rural African American students make sense of their position in school and what role school science discourse plays in their micro-cultural identity formation. The objectives of the study are to determine the science discourse's role in (1) determining access to knowledge, (2) affecting lower-track students' perceptions of school, and (3) perpetuating lower-track science students' identity. The constraints identified with lower-track science classroom discourse are strong hegemonic factors in determining students' behaviors, beliefs, and social and academic positions in the school hierarchy. Other school discourse practices involving disciplinary measures and counselor recommended tracking round out a strong arsenal to maintain students' perceived place in school. Implications for rethinking science classroom discourse are discussed.
Itk: The Rheostat of the T Cell Response

The nonreceptor tyrosine kinase Itk plays a key role in TCR-initiated signaling that directly and significantly affects the regulation of PLCγ1 and the consequent mobilization of Ca2+. Itk also participates in the regulation of cytoskeletal reorganization as well as cellular adhesion, which is necessary for a productive T cell response. The functional cellular outcome of these molecular regulations by Itk renders it an important mediator of T cell development and differentiation. This paper encompasses the structure of Itk, the signaling parameters leading to Itk activation, and Itk effects on molecular pathways resulting in functional cellular outcomes. The incorporation of these factors persuades one to believe that Itk serves as a modulator, or rheostat, critically fine-tuning the T cell response.
Non-A, Non-B Hepatitis after Experimental Transmission of Malaria by Inoculation of Blood

In a 1969 prisoner volunteer study of malaria transmission by blood inoculation, six persons were subinoculated sequentially, and acute hepatitis occurred in the last four (sequential study). Subsequently, another 15 volunteers receiving malaria-rich blood from 14 different donors were followed prospectively (prospective study), and hepatitis developed in six. Incubation periods were shorter but serum transaminase levels were higher for the cases of hepatitis occurring in the sequential study than in the prospective study. Although the illnesses were clinically mild, elevations in transaminase levels persisted for more than six months in five and fluctuating transaminase activities were observed in nine of the 10 affected persons. In addition, an 11 th prisoner developed sporadic hepatitis. Neither known human hepatitis viruses nor malaria could be implicated in these cases, which were classified as non-A, non-B (NANB) hepatitis. The data suggested that the viremia of short-incubation NANB hepatitis may begin within the first week after inoculation, confirmed that NANB hepatitis may be transmitted either percutaneously or nonpercutaneously, and provided further evidence that there is more than one NANB agent.
The SRI24 multichannel brain atlas: construction and applications

We present a new standard atlas of the human brain based on magnetic resonance images. The atlas was generated using unbiased population registration from high-resolution images obtained by multichannel-coil acquisition at 3T in a group of 24 normal subjects. The final atlas comprises three anatomical channels (T1-weighted, early and late spin echo), three diffusion-related channels (fractional anisotropy, mean diffusivity, diffusion-weighted image), and three tissue probability maps (CSF, gray matter, white matter). The atlas is dynamic in that it is implicitly represented by nonrigid transformations between the 24 subject images, as well as distortion-correction alignments between the image channels in each subject. The atlas can, therefore, be generated at essentially arbitrary image resolutions and orientations (e.g., AC/PC aligned), without compounding interpolation artifacts. We demonstrate in this paper two different applications of the atlas: (a) region definition by label propagation in a fiber tracking study is enabled by the increased sharpness of our atlas compared with other available atlases, and (b) spatial normalization is enabled by its average shape property. In summary, our atlas has unique features and will be made available to the scientific community as a resource and reference system for future imaging-based studies of the human brain.
TU‐D‐304A‐02: Dose Reduction in CT Using Non‐Convex Prior Image Constrained Compressed Sensing NC‐PICCS

Purpose: To demonstrate the dose reduction potential in CT using a novel algorithm (NC‐PICCS) based on a non‐convex l0 homotopic approximation. Methods: We generalized the Prior Image Constrained Compressed Sensing (PICCS) algorithm to solve an l0‐quasinorm by homotopic approximation using continuation on the parameter p (lp‐norm) which starts at p=1 and ends at p ≅ 0. The algorithm was validated using both computer simulations and in‐vivo animal studies. A pig perfusion study dataset was used to show the advantages of this novel method over existing compressed sensing approaches. Results: the NC‐PICCS method allows exact image reconstruction to be achieved from fewer projections than with methods such as standard CS or PICCS, both of which employ a convex l1 norm. For the synthetic data used, we were able to reconstruct the image with as few as 4 projections when a prior image was available in contrast to 12 projections without a prior image. When the method was applied to the in‐vivo pig perfusion data the number of projections required for exact reconstruction was about 20. Conclusions: the NC‐PICCS method provides a framework to highly reduce the dose in CTtime series studies. Although there is no theoretical guarantee of finding a global minimum due to the non‐convex nature of NC‐PICCS, substantial empirical evidence suggests that it performs better than previously reported compressed sensing methods for CTreconstruction in practice.
Calculation of low-energy atmospheric muon flux

We report the results of a three-dimensional Monte Carlo calculation of the low-energy atmospheric muon flux. They agree with the experiments by Allkofer et al. at sea level, but the agreement with the experiments by Conversi at a high altitude is not good, particularly at a very high altitude.
Fos expression by glutamatergic neurons of the solitary tract nucleus after phenylephrine-induced hypertension in rats.

The baroreflex pathway might include a glutamatergic connection between the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) and a segment of the ventrolateral medulla (VLM) called the caudal ventrolateral medulla. The main goal of this study was to seek direct evidence for such a connection. Awake rats were subjected to phenylephrine- (PE-) induced hypertension (N=5) or received saline (N=5). Neuronal activation was gauged by the presence of Fos-immunoreactive (Fos-ir) nuclei. Fos-ir neurons that contained vesicular glutamate transporter 2 mRNA (glutamatergic neurons) or glutamic acid decarboxylase mRNA (GABAergic neurons) were mapped throughout the medulla oblongata. Saline-treated rats had very few Fos-ir neurons. In PE-treated rats, Fos-ir neurons were detected in both NTS and VLM. In NTS, 72% of Fos-ir neurons were glutamatergic and 26% were GABAergic. In the VLM, 41% of Fos-ir neurons were glutamatergic and 56% were GABAergic. In VLM, Fos-ir glutamatergic neurons were evenly distributed and were often catecholaminergic, whereas Fos-ir GABAergic cells were clustered around Bregma -13.0 mm. This region of the VLM was injected with Fluoro-Gold (FG) in eight rats, four of which received PE and the rest saline. Fos-ir NTS neurons retrogradely labeled with FG were detected only in PE-treated rats. These cells were exclusively glutamatergic and were concentrated within the NTS subnuclei that receive the densest inputs from arterial baroreceptors. In conclusion, PE, presumably via baroreceptor stimulation, induces Fos in glutamatergic and GABAergic neurons in both NTS and VLM. At least 29% of the Fos-ir glutamatergic neurons of NTS project to the vicinity of the VLM GABAergic interneurons that are presumed to mediate the sympathetic baroreflex.
The new venture growth: Functional differentiation and the need for human resource development interventions

Knowledge of the timing and sequence of start-up teams' delegation of business functions in growing entrepreneurial ventures has significant implications for understanding those ventures' need for human resource development (HRD) interventions at different stages of their development. As a first step in exploring the evolution of functional differentiation in growing ventures, we analyze the extent to which 539 new businesses delegate a number of business functions. The start-up teams retain the marketing and marketing-related functions (marketing, sales, advertising, pricing and bidding, and new product development) in the majority of all firms with less than $10 million in sales. This group of functions ranks second only to general planning as a function retained. Three major size groups of emerging small businesses with distinctly different levels of functional delegation have been identified. There was no difference in the patterns of delegation of functions between manufacturing and service firms.
Neurobiological bases underlying the control of the onset of puberty in the rhesus monkey: a representative higher primate.

The purpose of this article is to discuss our understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms that govern the timing of the onset of puberty in the rhesus monkey, a representative higher primate, and, whenever possible, to place findings obtained from studies of this macaque in perspective with those for the human situation. Specifically, the dynamics in the postnatal ontogeny of hypothalamic GnRH gene expression and release are described, and the roles of neuropeptide Y and gamma-aminobutyric acid in imposing the restraint on pulsatile GnRH release during juvenile development are examined. Finally, the hypothesis that circulating leptin provides the signal that times the reaugmentation of pulsatile GnRH release at the termination of juvenile development, and therefore triggers the onset of primate puberty, is discussed.
Characterization of Maya pottery by INAA and ICP-MS

A total of 81 pottery and 25 clay samples from the archaeological site and hinterland areas of Blue Creek in northwest Belize were analyzed by instrumental neutron activation analysis and inductively-coupled-plasma mass-spectrometry at the University of Missouri Research Reactor. Data generated for this study offers insight into local clay-resource variability and movement of pottery in the transition from Early (A.D. 250–600) to Late Classic (A.D. 600–850) occupation. Comparison of data generated by the two analytical techniques demonstrates the relative strengths and weaknesses of each method.
Kinetic description of neutralized drift compression and transverse focusing of intense ion charge bunches

A kinetic model based on the Vlasov equation is used to describe the axial drift compression and transverse focusing of an intense ion charge bunch propagating along the axis of a solenoidal focusing field ${\mathbf{B}}^{\mathrm{sol}}(\mathbf{x})$. The space charge and current of the ion charge bunch are assumed to be completely neutralized by the electrons provided by a dense background plasma. In the absence of self-field forces, the Vlasov equation is solved exactly for general initial distribution function ${f}_{b}(\mathbf{x},\mathbf{v},0)$, using the method of characteristics. It is shown that the Vlasov equation possesses a class of exact, dynamically evolving solutions ${f}_{b}({W}_{\ensuremath{\perp}},{W}_{z})$, where ${W}_{\ensuremath{\perp}}$ and ${W}_{z}$ are transverse and longitudinal constants of the motion. Detailed dynamical properties of the charge bunch are calculated during axial compression and transverse focusing for several choices of distribution function ${f}_{b}({W}_{\ensuremath{\perp}},{W}_{z})$.
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of cisatracurium in patients with end-stage liver disease undergoing liver transplantation.

We determined the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of cisatracurium, one of the 10 isomers of atracurium, in 14 patients with end-stage liver disease undergoing liver transplantation and in 11 control patients with normal hepatic and renal function undergoing elective surgery. Blood samples were collected for 8 h after i.v. bolus administration of cisatracurium 0.1 mg kg-1 (2 x ED95). Plasma concentrations of cisatracurium and its metabolites were determined using an HPLC method with fluorescence detection. Pharmacokinetic variables were determined using non-compartmental methods. Neuromuscular block was assessed by measuring the electromyographic evoked response of the adductor pollicis muscle to train-of-four stimulation of the ulnar nerve using a Puritan-Bennett Datex (Helsinki, Finland) monitor. Pharmacodynamic modelling was completed using semi-parametric effect-compartment analysis. Volume of distribution at steady state was 195 (SD 38) ml kg-1 in liver transplant patients and 161 (23) ml kg-1 in control patients (P
A quantitative quasispecies theory-based model of virus escape mutation under immune selection

Viral infections involve a complex interplay of the immune response and escape mutation of the virus quasispecies inside a single host. Although fundamental aspects of such a balance of mutation and selection pressure have been established by the quasispecies theory decades ago, its implications have largely remained qualitative. Here, we present a quantitative approach to model the virus evolution under cytotoxic T-lymphocyte immune response. The virus quasispecies dynamics are explicitly represented by mutations in the combined sequence space of a set of epitopes within the viral genome. We stochastically simulated the growth of a viral population originating from a single wild-type founder virus and its recognition and clearance by the immune response, as well as the expansion of its genetic diversity. Applied to the immune escape of a simian immunodeficiency virus epitope, model predictions were quantitatively comparable to the experimental data. Within the model parameter space, we found two qualitatively different regimes of infectious disease pathogenesis, each representing alternative fates of the immune response: It can clear the infection in finite time or eventually be overwhelmed by viral growth and escape mutation. The latter regime exhibits the characteristic disease progression pattern of human immunodeficiency virus, while the former is bounded by maximum mutation rates that can be suppressed by the immune response. Our results demonstrate that, by explicitly representing epitope mutations and thus providing a genotype–phenotype map, the quasispecies theory can form the basis of a detailed sequence-specific model of real-world viral pathogens evolving under immune selection.
Susceptibilities of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 enzyme and viral variants expressing multiple resistance-engendering amino acid substitutions to reserve transcriptase inhibitors.

To evaluate the potential that multiply resistant human immunodeficiency virus type 1 variants may arise during combination nucleoside and nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor therapy, we constructed a series of mutant reverse transcriptase enzymes and viruses that coexpressed various combinations of resistance-associated amino acid substitutions. Substitutions at residues 100 (Leu-->Ile) and 181 (Tyr-->Cys), which mediate resistance to the nonnucleosides, suppressed resistance to 39-azido-39-deoxythymidine (AZT) when coexpressed with AZT-specific substitutions. However, a number of viral variants that exhibited significantly reduced susceptibilities to both classes of inhibitors were constructed.
Beyond “The Total Organization” A Graduate-Level Simulation

This simulation is designed to help students understand the complexity of organizational life and learn how to navigate a work world of chaos, conflict, and uncertainty. This adaptation and update ...
Ruptured Distal Biceps Tendon

Department of Emergency Medicine, Genesys Regional Medical Center, Grand Blanc, Michigan, Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, East Lansing, Michigan, and Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, East Lansing, Michigan Corresponding Address: James Webley, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, Genesys Regional Medical Center, One Genesys Parkway, Grand Blanc, MI 48439
The RNP protein, RNPS1, associates with specific isoforms of the p34cdc2-related PITSLRE protein kinase in vivo

The PITSLRE protein kinases are members of the p34cdc2 superfamily, with >20 different isoforms expressed from two linked genes in humans. PITSLRE homologues have been identified in mouse, chicken, Drosophila, Xenopus, and possibly Plasmodium falciparum, suggesting that their function may be well conserved. A possible role for a caspase processed PITSLRE isoform has been suggested by studies of Fas- and TNF-induced cell death. However, the function of these kinases in proliferating cells is still unknown. Here we demonstrate that the 110 kDa PITSLRE isoforms (p110) are localized to both the nucleoplasm and nuclear speckles, and that these isoforms specifically interact in vitro and in vivo with the RNA-binding protein RNPS1. RNPS1 is also localized to nuclear speckles, and its over expression disrupts normal nuclear speckle organization by causing the aggregation of many nuclear speckles into approximately 6 'mega' speckles. This type of nuclear speckle aggregation closely resembles what occurs when cells are treated with several transcriptional inhibitors. These data indicate that the PITSLRE p110 isoforms interact with RNPS1 in vivo, and that these proteins may in turn influence some aspect of transcriptional and/or splicing regulation.
A QoS based routing protocol for wireless sensor networks

In this paper we propose a QoS based routing protocol for wireless sensor network applications that support both periodic and event-based data reporting. A geographic routing mechanism combined with QoS support is used to forward packets in the network. Data is routed based on the packet type. To route packets with different priorities, multiple transmission queues are used. In choosing the next hop, the node that is closer to the sink, has high residual energy, high link quality, and low load is selected. Congestion control is achieved by using a ring or barrier mechanism that captures and aggregates messages that report the same event to the same sink. We present the main operations of the barrier mechanism, including barrier formation, repair, enlarge, shrink, and termination. Simulation results using JIST/SWANS simulator show the performance of our routing protocol compared with other related works.
Potentiometric quantitation of glycerol using immobilized glycerol dehydrogenase

Glycerol dehydrogenase was immobilized in polyacrylamide gel layered over a small platinum screen and used to catalyze the oxidation of glycerol. In the presence of NAD+ and potassium ferricyanide, the coupling reaction generated a measurable electrical potential which was found to be Nernstian with respect to the glycerol concentration range of 10−4M to 10−1M. The reproducibility of the measurement and the optimal conditions for glycerol determination were described.
γ-Irradiation modulates vascular smooth muscle cell and extracellular matrix function: Implications for neointimal development

Abstract Objective Migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) into the subintimal space, and their proliferation and resultant deposition of extracellular matrix are key processes in the development of intimal hyperplasia, leading to vascular recurrent stenosis. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of clinically administered doses of γ-radiation on SMCs and extracellular matrix proteins in vitro, to better understand how it impinges on cellular and extracellular components of recurrent stenosis. Methods The effects of γ-irradiation (10, 20 Gy) on SMC migration into three-dimensional collagen matrix gels was quantitated by calibrated light microscopy, and the release of metalloproteinases into conditioned media was investigated with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and zymography. Collagen production was assayed with [ 3 H]-proline incorporation, and SMC phenotype changes with confocal microscopy with a fluorescent α-actin antibody. The effect of γ-irradiation on extracellular matrix was investigated by quantitating untreated SMC proliferation ( 3 H-thymidine incorporation) on irradiated endothelial cell–derived matrix and by assessing structural collagen matrix changes with sodium dodecylsulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. All groups were compared with nonirradiated control groups. Results SMC vertical migration was significantly decreased by γ-irradiation (48% and 55%, respectively; P P = .0028). Moreover, γ-irradiation reversed the secretory phenotype of cultured SMCs to a contractile type. Conclusions The γ-irradiation–induced reduction of cellular migration, changes in SMC phenotype, and functional activity of matrix-bound factors, and no measurable effects on the production of extracellular matrix proteins, may in part explain the diverse effects of γ-irradiation on the restenotic response.
Routing Management in the PSTN and the Internet: A Historical Perspective

Two highly visible public communication networks are the public-switched telephone network (PSTN) and the Internet. While they typically provide different services and the basic technologies underneath are different, both networks rely heavily on routing for communication between any two points. In this paper, we present a brief overview of routing mechanisms used in the PSTN and the Internet from a historical perspective. In particular, we discuss the role of management for the different routing mechanisms, where and how one is similar or different from the other, as well as where the management aspect is heading in an inter-networked environment of the PSTN and the Internet where voice over IP (VoIP) services are offered.
An overview of space science and engineering education at Penn State

This provides an overview of space science and space systems engineering education at Penn State University. Students at the graduate and undergraduate levels participate in an educational program consisting of three interdependent components: space systems-related courses, space systems project work, and research. Courses range from Introduction to Space Physics to Spacecraft Design. Student project involvement is realized through a number of student-driven space systems projects completed throughout the past two decades. Students are provided opportunities to do independent study projects, honors theses, M.S. theses, and Ph.D. theses on a number of space science and space systems-related topics. Our educational goal is to prepare students at the undergraduate and graduate levels for productive careers in technical and nontechnical fields relating to space systems. Due to student interest, we are developing a certificate in Space Systems Engineering for undergraduates in the College of Engineering. Strengthening Penn State's position in space engineering are its Center for Space Research Programs, membership in the USAF's Space Education Consortium, and its role in serving as the lead institution within the Commonwealth for the Pennsylvania Space Grant Consortium
Skin Manifestations of Internal Disease

As the largest organ in the body, the skin may reveal the first manifestations of internal disease. The astute clinician can often use dermatologic findings to diagnose an underlying systemic disease. This chapter outlines some of the most important skin manifestations of internal disease. Common yet clinically important systemic diseases will be reviewed, and their most notable skin findings will be delineated.
Effect of Triton WR-1339 on Lipoproteins and Lipoprotein Lipase of Guinea Pig Plasma

SummaryAdministration of Triton WR-1339 to guinea pigs (300 mg/kg) altered plasma lipoproteins so that they were not cleared by guinea pig lipoprotein lipase. Plasma lipoproteins of normal guinea pigs similarly were rendered resistant to lipoprotein lipase by incubation with Triton in vitro. Comparison of plasma lipoprotein lipase levels in Triton-treated and control animals showed that the former group possessed significantly higher levels of enzyme. The mechanism responsible for the Triton-induced hyperlipemia was discussed in view of these findings.