cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Using automatic differentiation for second-order matrix-free methods in PDE-constrained optimization

Classical methods of constrained optimization are often based on the assumptions that projection onto the constraint manifold is routine, but accessing second-derivative information is not. Both assumptions need revision for the application of optimization to systems constrained by partial differential equations, in the contemporary limit of millions of state variables and in the parallel setting. Large-scale PDE solvers are complex pieces of software that exploit detailed knowledge of architecture and application and cannot easily be modified to fit the interface requirements of a black box optimizer. Furthermore, in view of the expense of PDE analyses, optimization methods not using second derivatives may require too many iterations to be practical. For general problems, automatic differentiation is likely to be the most convenient means of exploiting second derivatives. We delineate a role for automatic differentiation in matrix-free optimization formulations involving Newton's method, in which little more storage is required than that for the analysis code alone.
MicroRNA-185 and 342 Inhibit Tumorigenicity and Induce Apoptosis through Blockade of the SREBP Metabolic Pathway in Prostate Cancer Cells

MicroRNA (miRNA or miR) inhibition of oncogenic related pathways has been shown to be a promising therapeutic approach for cancer. Aberrant lipid and cholesterol metabolism is involved in prostate cancer development and progression to end-stage disease. We recently demonstrated that a key transcription factor for lipogenesis, sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1 (SREBP-1), induced fatty acid and lipid accumulation and androgen receptor (AR) transcriptional activity, and also promoted prostate cancer cell growth and castration resistance. SREBP-1 was overexpressed in human prostate cancer and castration-resistant patient specimens. These experimental and clinical results indicate that SREBP-1 is a potential oncogenic transcription factor in prostate cancer. In this study, we identified two miRNAs, miR-185 and 342, that control lipogenesis and cholesterogenesis in prostate cancer cells by inhibiting SREBP-1 and 2 expression and down-regulating their targeted genes, including fatty acid synthase (FASN) and 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl CoA reductase (HMGCR). Both miR-185 and 342 inhibited tumorigenicity, cell growth, migration and invasion in prostate cancer cell culture and xenograft models coincident with their blockade of lipogenesis and cholesterogenesis. Intrinsic miR-185 and 342 expression was significantly decreased in prostate cancer cells compared to non-cancerous epithelial cells. Restoration of miR-185 and 342 led to caspase-dependent apoptotic death in prostate cancer cells. The newly identified miRNAs, miR-185 and 342, represent a novel targeting mechanism for prostate cancer therapy.
Burst Spiking of a Single Cortical Neuron Modifies Global Brain State

Different global patterns of brain activity are associated with distinct arousal and behavioral states of an animal, but how the brain rapidly switches between different states remains unclear. We here report that repetitive high-frequency burst spiking of a single rat cortical neuron could trigger a switch between the cortical states resembling slow-wave and rapid-eye-movement sleep. This is reflected in the switching of the membrane potential of the stimulated neuron from slow UP/DOWN oscillations to a persistent-UP state or vice versa, with concurrent changes in the temporal pattern of cortical local field potential (LFP) recorded several millimeters away. These results point to the power of single cortical neurons in modulating the behavioral state of an animal.
Gene expression profile in human prostate LNCaP cancer cells by (--) epigallocatechin-3-gallate.

Abstract Green tea is an effective chemopreventive agent in animal tumor bioassays and some human cancers. Much of its cancer preventive effects appear to be mediated by its major polyphenolic constituent (−) epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). In order to better understand the molecular regulation underlying the anti-proliferative activity of EGCG in prostate cancer, we have utilized cDNA microarray to elucidate how EGCG alters program of gene expression in prostate carcinoma LNCaP cells. Fluorophore-labeled cDNA probes synthesized from the untreated LNCaP cells or the cells treated for 12 h with EGCG (12 μM), a physiologically achievable dose, were competitively hybridized to the microarray that contained a total of 250 kinases and phosphatases genes. Such high-throughput screening has identified a number of EGCG-responsive gene candidates. Of these, we found that EGCG induced a subset of genes that functionally could exhibit inhibitory effects on cell growth. The genes repressed by EGCG mostly belonged to the G-protein signaling network. Interestingly, the protein kinase C-α (PKC-α) form, whose inhibition of expression has been shown to inhibit cell growth in some cancer cells, was selectively repressed by EGCG while the expression of six other PKC isoforms (β, δ, ϵ, μ, η and ζ) was unaffected. These EGCG-responsive genes may provide key insights from which to understand mechanisms of action of other polyphenolic compounds in prostate cancer chemoprevention.
Desmosine radioimmunoassay as a means of studying elastogenesis in cell culture.

Elastin is synthesized by fibroblasts and chondroblasts in cell culture shortly before the cells become confluent. Fibroblasts secrete elastin into the medium as soluble tropoelastin molecules, which form desmosine crosslinks and become constituents of the cell layer only after three weeks in culture. Even then only a small fraction of the available tropoelastin molecules from crosslinks. Conversely, the chondrocytes secrete an elastin which never reaches the media as soluble elastin in significant quantities. Crosslinking occurs immediately in the chondroblast cell layer forming stable, insoluble elastic fibers. Both cells in culture produce lysyl oxidase at approximately the same levels. The reason for the marked differences between these cells in the mode of conversion of soluble elastin to insoluble elastin is not known. The suggestion of Mecham3 that the extracellular matrix may play a major role in the development of elastogenesis may provide an answer.
Trisomy 22 confirmed by fluorescent in situ hybridization

We report on a newborn girl with multiple congenital anomalies, whose G-banded chromosome analysis showed complete trisomy 22. Chromosome painting using a whole-chromosome painting probe for chromosome 22 confirmed that neither chromosome 22 was involved in a cryptic translocation.
SU-E-T-517: Dosimetric Evaluation of Beam-Hold Interruption in Respiratory Gated RapidArc Delivery

Purpose: Varian's TureBeam linear accelerator delivers respiratory gated RapidArc treatment by beam‐hold until at right gantry position/speed and gated window. The current study evaluated the impact of beam‐hold interruption to gated RapidArc dose delivery. Method and Materials: Two delivery modes were examined: (1) Flattening Filter Free (FFF) mode with maximum dose rate of 2400 MU/min (2) standard delivery mode with maximum dose rate of 600 MU/min. An 1 arc plan for SBRTlungcancer in FFF mode (12 Gy/fraction) and a 2 arc plan for pancreatic cancer (1.8 Gy/frcation) were delivered to a phantom. Dosimetric differences between the gated and non‐gated deliveries were compared using film and ion chamber. Beam‐hold interruptions were tested for respiratory rate of 12, 15, 20, 30 cycle/min with a gating threshold of 33.3% duty cycle. Results: Beam‐hold interruption number ranged from 44 for the 1 arc plan at 12 cycle/min to 349 for the 2 arc plan at 30 cycle/min. 2 arc plan delivery time increased from 104 seconds for non‐gated to 768 seconds for gated at 30 cycle/min. Beam‐hold number increased more than twice when respiratory rate increased from 20 to 30 cycle/min. The difference between the gated and non‐gated ion chamber measurements was within 0.16% for 1 arc delivery in FFF mode and within 0.24% for 2 arc plan in standard mode. The difference between the gated and non‐gated film measurements ranged in 0–0.01% pixels for > 3%/3mm (0.03–0.46 for 2%/2mm) for 1 arc in FFF mode, and in 0.96–2.15% pixels for > 3%/3mm (6.03–12.65 for 2%/2mm) for 2 arc delivery in standard mode. There were no clear association between number of beam‐hold and dosimetric differences. Conclusion: In clinical respiratory rate range, gated RapidArc deliveries were in agreement with non‐gated RapidArc deliveries in both FFF mode and standard mode.
Prevention of preeclampsia: a randomized trial of atenolol in hyperdynamic patients before onset of hypertension.

Abstract Objective: To determine if assessment of maternal hemodynamics could predict women at risk for the development of preeclampsia, if treatment directed at hemodynamic abnormalities before the onset of hypertension could prevent preeclampsia, and if mothers could be treated in a way that protects fetal growth. Methods: A double-blinded, randomized controlled trial was conducted. Subjects were considered to be at risk for preeclampsia if their cardiac output was greater than 7.4 L/min before 24 weeks’ gestation. Nulliparous and diabetic subjects at risk were treated with 100 mg of atenolol or placebo. Cardiac output was measured by Doppler technique. Inulin and para-aminohippurate clearances were performed. Results: Treatment with atenolol reduced the incidence of preeclampsia from 5 of 28 (18%) to 1 of 28 (3.8%), (P = .04). Nulliparous women determined to be at risk for preeclampsia were similar to diabetic women at risk. Each was significantly heavier and had inulin and para-aminohippurate clearances greater than the control group. Treatment with atenolol was associated with infants weighing 440 g less than infants in the nulliparous placebo group, (P = .02). No effect on birth weight was seen in the diabetic patients. Mothers of the smallest infants who were treated with atenolol could be identified by unexpectedly large reductions in cardiac output. Conclusion: Measurement of cardiac output in the second trimester identified women at risk for preeclampsia. Treatment with atenolol decreased the incidence of preeclampsia. Nulliparous and diabetic women at risk for preeclampsia were similar with regard to maternal hemodynamics, maternal weight, and renal function. Treatment with atenolol was associated with reduced infant birth weight.
Particle loading in a catalyst-trap microreactor: Experiment vs. simulation

Abstract We present the results of a study of the catalyst loading behavior on the “catalyst-trap” microreactor, a novel microreactor recently reported by McGovern et al. (2008) [1] . The study focuses on the important issue of catalyst deployment inside microscale reactors which must be understood in order to further the implementation of emerging microtechnology for organic chemical synthesis. We initially set out to use the catalyst-trap microreactor to investigate the catalytic hydrogenation of 3-nitrotoluene. In that investigation a 100% yield was fortuitously achieved due to the activity of the reaction. However, the low trap occupancy ratio (20% of the traps had been loaded) could still be an impediment, especially for other more complex reactions. After extensively studying the loading procedure, 98% of the traps in the reactor were able to be successfully loaded. Simulations based on a random-walk model and the procedures of the loading experiments were conducted to better understand the filling mechanism. We found the physical catalyst loading procedure was consistent with the simple mechanism in our simulations. Through this work, catalytic area and catalytic efficiency have been significantly increased, and the synthetic capability enhanced as a result.
2-Color Calcium Pump Reveals Closure of the Cytoplasmic Headpiece with Calcium Binding

The sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum calcium ATPase (SERCA) undergoes conformational changes while transporting calcium, but the details of the domain motions are still unclear. The objective of the present study was to measure distances between the cytoplasmic domains of SERCA2a in order to reveal the magnitude and direction of conformational changes. Using fluorescence microscopy of live cells, we measured intramolecular fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) from a donor fluorescent protein fused to the SERCA N-terminus to an acceptor fluorescent protein fused to either the N-, P-, or transmembrane domain. The “2-color” SERCA constructs were catalytically active as indicated by ATPase activity in vitro and Ca uptake in live cells. All constructs exhibited dynamic FRET changes in response to the pump ligands calcium and thapsigargin (Tg). These FRET changes were quantified as an index of SERCA conformational changes. Intramolecular FRET decreased with Tg for the two N-domain fusion sites (at residue 509 or 576), while the P- (residue 661) and TM-domain (C-terminus) fusions showed increased FRET with Tg. The magnitude of the Tg-dependent conformational change was not decreased by coexpression of phospholamban (PLB), nor did PLB slow the kinetics of Tg binding. FRET in ionophore-permeabilized cells was lower in EGTA than in saturating calcium for all constructs, indicating a decrease in domain separation distance with the structural transition from E2 (Ca-free) to E1 (Ca-bound). The data suggest closure of the cytoplasmic headpiece with Ca-binding. The present results provide insight into the structural dynamics of the Ca-ATPase. In addition, the 2-color SERCA constructs developed for this study may be useful for evaluating candidate small molecule regulators of Ca uptake activity.
Preformed particle toughening of epoxy‐based film adhesive systems: The effect of particle size and chemistry

A new family of particulate modifiers was incorporated into an epoxy-based model film adhesive system and the performance was evaluated. The particulate modifiers were selected to include a range of particle sizes, chemistry, and functionality. Thermal analysis, lap shear, and fracture energy tests were performed to characterize the performance of the adhesives. The mechanisms of failure for the adhesives were analyzed in relation to the particle modifier characteristics. Significant differences were found for mode I fracture energy when comparing adhesively joined composite specimens in cocured and bonded situations. Large preformed particle modified adhesives had nearly the same G IC values for both cocured and bonded applications, while the G IC values for the much smaller core-shell particle modified adhesives differed significantly. All particle modified adhesives provided an improvement in mode II fracture toughness over that of the control such that the laminates failed either in compression (through-thickness direction) or through delamination of the prepreg plies.
A Closed-Loop Imaging Infrared-Based Tracker For Fire Control

This report presents a closed-loop automatic tracker for imaging IR-based fire control. A tank target state estimation filter is discussed and major tradeoffs in the implementation of Kalman filters and tracker rate-aiding are given. Tank target maneuver capabilities are surveyed and results are incorporated in the filter. The developed augmented Kalman filter is based upon nine filter states and three measurements. Simulation studies show acceptable target prediction accuracies for tank targets even for constant Kalman gains. Gain scheduling is performed during filter initialization or when a "target maneuver" is detected from testing the statistics of filter residuals. The augmented Kalman filter uses range and line-of-sight (LOS) angular rate measurements obtained from platform-mounted range and angular rate sensors. Filtered inertial angular rates are used for tracker rate-aiding before and after "breaklock"-if this occurs (e.g., if target gets occluded). During the tracker "coast-until-reacquisition" phase the propagated filter rates are used to command the gimbals.
Stochastic trends and economic fluctuations in a large open economy

Abstract This study examines the role of stochastic trends in real exchange rates and foreign output in explaining economic fluctuations in the United States. While many of the results are consistent with recent closed-economy studies, the evidence shows that external shocks have significant short-run effects on economic fluctuations, even in a large country. A real appreciation of the dollar leads to permanent decreases in net exports and temporary decreases in output. Permanent shocks to real exchange rates have surprisingly large effects on output over the course of the normal business cycle.
Agricultural land preservation: The case of Carlsbad, California

Abstract The purpose of this article is to describe a program of agricultural land preservation in Carlsbad, California. This program focuses on agricultural subsidies and has been adopted and certified by the California State Coastal Commission and is scheduled for implementation on January 1, 1982. This subsidy program is a variation of development rights transfer. Although no property rights are actually transferred, owners of land designated for agricultural use are subsidized by fees imposed on land designated for potential conversion to residential use. The Carlsbad program is placed into context by means of a brief review of similar proposals which attempt to preserve agricultural land in a fair and equitable manner. The importance of agricultural land preservation is emphasized through discussions of urban development pressure, the significance of agriculture in the Carlsbad coastal zone, and the work of the California State Coastal Commission.
Doxorubicin loading on graphene oxide, iron oxide and gold nanoparticle hybrid

We report the facile and non-covalent construction of a graphene oxide-based functional hybrid material with gold and fluorescently labeled superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles [GO–MNcy5.5–AuNP]. The obtained [GO–MNcy5.5–AuNP] hybrid exhibits the physical properties of each component. The relaxivity of the magnetic nanoparticles was improved, cy5.5 fluorescence was completely quenched and the surface plasmon peak of the gold nanoparticles at 520 nm was observed in the hybrid complex. The hybrid exhibits an ultra-high doxorubicin loading capacity of 6.05 mg mg−1 at 0.32 mg ml−1 drug concentration. This material could serve as a promising platform for theranostics, due to its contrast agent composition and anticancer drug loading capacity.
Playful Learning Experiences: Meaningful Learning Patterns in Players' Biographies

Players use digital games as playgrounds for their interests, passions, values, and beliefs. Computer games entertain us, please our needs, challenge our abilities, make us engage with other players, and confront us with novel experiences. Today, video games foster learning, but how players connect their learning through playing games to their biographies is a question yet unanswered. This paper outlines basic theoretical assumptions on playful learning experiences and empirical insights into meaningful learning patterns. On this basis it presents the central results of an innovative qualitative study on playful learning biographies undertaken in 2010, and thereby aims to provide a reflected understanding of how today's generation experiences deep and meaningful learning in their playful biographies. Furthermore, this paper examines the question on how games foster transformative learning and discusses consequences for educational settings and future research.
Rates and pathways of nitrous oxide production in a shortgrass steppe

Most of the small external inputs of N to the Shortgrass steppe appear to be conserved. One pathway of loss is the emission of nitrous oxide, which we estimate to account for 2.5–9.0% of annual wet deposition inputs of N. These estimates were determined from an N2O emission model based on field data which describe the temporal variability of N2O produced from nitrification and denitrification from two slope positions. Soil water and temperature models were used to translate records of air temperature and precipitation between 1950 and 1984 into variables appropriate to drive the gas flux model, and annual N2O fluxes were estimated for that period. The mean annual fluxes were 80 g N ha−1 for a midslope location and 160 g N ha−1 for a swale. Fluxes were higher in wet years than in dry, ranging from 73 to 100 g N ha−1y−1at the midslope, but the variability was not high. N2O fluxes were also estimated from cattle urine patches and these fluxes while high within a urine patch, did not contribute significantly to a regional budget. Laboratory experiments using C2H2 to inhibit nitrifiers suggested that 60–80% of N2O was produced as a result of nitrification, with denitrification being less important, in contrast to our earlier findings to the contrary. Intrasite and intraseasonal variations in N2O flux were coupled to variations in mineral N dynamics, with high rates of N2O flux occurring with high rates of inorganic N turnover. We computed a mean flux of 104 g N ha−1 y−1 from the shortgrass landscape, and a flux of 2.6 × 109 g N y− from all shortgrass steppe (25 × 106 ha).
Detecting maize inoculated with toxigenic and atoxigenic fungal strains with fluorescence hyperspectral imagery

Naturally occurring Aspergillus flavus strains can be either toxigenic or atoxigenic, indicating their ability to produce aflatoxin or not. The objective was to assess, with the use of a hyperspectral sensor, the difference in fluorescence emission between maize kernels inoculated with toxigenic and atoxigenic inoculums of A. flavus. Maize ears were inoculated with AF13, a toxigenic strain of A. flavus, and AF38, an atoxigenic strain of A. flavus, at dough stage of development and harvested 8 weeks after inoculation. After harvest, single kernels were divided into three groups prior to imaging: control, adjacent, and glowing. Both sides of the kernel, germ and endosperm, were imaged separately using a fluorescence hyperspectral imaging system. After imaging each single kernel was processed with affinity column fluorimetry to determine aflatoxin level. Results from discriminant analysis of the imaging data found that the classification accuracies of the three visually designated groups were not promising. The separation of maize kernels based on different fungal inoculums yielded better results. The best results were achieved with the germ side of the maize kernels. The kernels were later grouped into ‘contaminated’ and ‘healthy’ with 20 ppb and 100 ppb thresholds. The contaminated kernels all had longer peak wavelength than did the healthy ones. Results from the discriminant analysis classification indicated overall higher classification accuracy for the 100 ppb threshold on the germ side (94.4%). The germ side was also more useful at discriminating healthy from contaminated kernels for the 20 ppb threshold.
Building Skills for School Success: Improving the Academic and Social Competence of Students

The focus of this article's study was to evaluate the impact of the school counselor-led Student Success Skills program on the academic and social competence of students. A randomized comparison group design was used to measure treatment outcomes for students in grades 5, 6, 8, and 9 from six schools using state-mandated achievement tests in math and reading and a measure of social competence. Achievement outcomes were measured for comparison group students in schools matched for key demographics. An analysis of covariance was used for the analysis. Students who received the intervention scored significantly higher in math achievement and showed substantial improvement in behavior.
Thermal modeling and on-line monitoring of wire-EDM

Abstract This paper reports a WEDM sparking frequency monitor developed to detect the thermal load for on-line control to prevent the wire from rupture. The wire rupture phenomena are also analyzed with a thermal model. An extensive experimental investigation has been carried out to determine the process performances such as machining rate and surface finish with overall control parameters of an ED machine. The relationship between the machining rate and surface finish under optimal machine settings has been determined by means of a multi-objective model.
A Collaborative Process for Developing Map Symbol Standards

Abstract Geographic information is commonly disseminated and consumed via visual representations of features and their environmental context on maps. Map design inherently involves generalizing reality, and one method by which mapmakers do so is through the use of symbols to represent features. Here we focus on the challenges associated with supporting mapmakers who need to work together to reach consensus on standardizing their map symbols. Based on a needs assessment study with mapmakers at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, we designed a new, mixed-method symbol standardization process that takes place through a web-based, asynchronous platform. A study to test this new standardization process with mapmakers at DHS revealed that our process allowed participants to identify many issues related to symbol design, meaning, and categorization. The approach elicited sustained, iterative engagement and critical thinking from participants, and results from a post-study survey indicate that participants found it to be useful and usable. Results from our study and user feedback allow us to suggest multiple ways in which our approach and platform can be improved for future applications.
Time-dependent Landau theory for the smectic- A -nematic phase transition

A time-dependent Landau theory is proposed for the smectic-$A$-nematic phase transition. It is shown that the nematic viscosity coefficients exhibit a pretransition effect similar to that for the elastic constants.
Editorial: Omental transposition for cerebral revascularization.

Studies over the past decade have shown that when the omentum is placed on the brain of a patient with cerebral ischemia and/or infarction, beneficial clinical effects have occurred in roughly half the patients. It is believed that these neurological improvements following surgery are due to angiogenic, neurotransmitter, and nerve growth substances that are derived from the omentum and affect the underlying brain. The presence of these biological neurochemicals in the omentum may open up future treatment avenues for a host of neurological conditions. Only with additional experience, experimentation, and controlled clinical trials will the eventual place of the omentum be established in the treatment of a variety of CNS disorders.
Painful Trigeminal Neuropathy: Clinical and Pharmacological Observations

UNLABELLED A 74-year-old woman had a 5-year history of constant burning pain and numbness of the central face of subacute onset. The central region of the face, oral cavity, and nose lacked all sensation. Corneal reflexes and the jaw jerk were absent. Blood tests, rectal biopsy, neurodiagnostic studies, and surgical exploration of the trigeminal nerve were normal. Blink reflexes were absent. Facial nerve motor latencies and EMG of the facial and masseter muscles were normal. Responses to the thermoregulatory sweat test, intradermal histamine, and simulated diving were present. Oral administration of 500 mg L-dopa aggravated her pain and produced transient hypalgesia in the C2 through C6 dermatomes. Infraorbital nerve biopsy demonstrated loss of large myelinated fibers. IN CONCLUSION (1) Only the central region of the face is exclusively supplied by the trigeminal nerves. (2) Somato-autonomic reflexes coupled with electrophysiological studies localized the lesion to the large fibers. (3) Large fiber loss and central brain stem reorganization may explain the burning pain. (4) Dopamine may modulate trigeminal nociception.
Using Automated Cell Tracking Software to Quantifying Durokinesis and Durotaxis in Real Time

In vivo, there is an intimate connection between certain cellular processes and the physical nature of the surrounding environment. Specifically, it has been theorized that changes in the physical properties of the extra-cellular environment within the vasculature influence cellular migration which can influence such processes as angiogenesis and occlusive vascular disease.In order to observe and quantify the compliance directed migration of both vascular smooth muscle cells and fibroblasts, we employed both polyacrylamide substrates, in which the tensile modulus could be tuned to specific values, and novel computer imaging software which automatically tracked cellular movement in less then ideal optical imaging conditions.Although both durotaxis and durokinesis have been previously observed in large population studies, our application of computer vision software allowed for a high throughput analysis of individual cells in real time. This method not only standardized the data collection but also enabled us to observe and quantify changes in speed, angular deviation, acceleration and deceleration within a single cell's migration track as a function of substrate stiffness and in the presences of a compliance gradient. This detailed analysis will serve to refine our understanding of cells respond to the physical stimuli presented in the environment.
Direct Determination of the T-Matrix From a MoM Impedance Matrix Computed Using the Rao-Wilton-Glisson Basis Function

We present an explicit and numerically exact method for determining the T matrix of an arbitrarily shaped PEC object directly from a MoM impedance matrix that is generated with the Rao-Wilton-Glisson basis function for use in multiple-scattering calculations.
Acquisition of selectin binding and peripheral homing properties by CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells.

Different T cell subsets exhibit distinct capacities to migrate into peripheral sites of inflammation, and this may in part reflect differential expression of homing receptors and chemokine receptors. Using an adoptive transfer approach, we examined the ability of functionally distinct subsets of T cells to home to a peripheral inflammatory site. The data directly demonstrate the inability of naive T cells and the ability of effector cells to home to inflamed peritoneum. Furthermore, interleukin (IL)-12 directs the differentiation of either CD4+ or CD8+ T cells into effector populations that expresses functional E- and P-selectin ligand and that are preferentially recruited into the inflamed peritoneum compared with T cells differentiated in the presence of IL-4. Recruitment can be blocked by anti–E- and –P-selectin antibodies. The presence of antigen in the peritoneum promotes local proliferation of recruited T cells, and significantly amplifies the Th1 polarization of the lymphocytic infiltrate. Preferential recruitment of Th1 cells into the peritoneum is also seen when cytokine response gene 2 (CRG-2)/interferon γ–inducible protein 10 (IP-10) is used as the sole inflammatory stimulus. We have also found that P-selectin binds only to antigen-specific T cells in draining lymph nodes after immunization, implying that both antigen- and cytokine-mediated signals are required for expression of functional selectin-ligand.
Multimodality therapy of an acquired factor V inhibitor

Acquired inhibitors of factor V are rare causes of clinical bleeding, whose severity ranges from mild to life-threatening. Optimal treatment of patients with factor V inhibitors is uncertain. We report on our successful treatment approach in a patient with spontaneous, life-threatening intracranial bleeding caused by a factor V inhibitor. The patient deteriorated after initial treatment with fresh-frozen plasma and platelet transfusions. He was subsequently treated with a combination of plasma exchange and chemotherapy, which led to complete recovery. Our experience suggests that plasma exchange may be life-saving in cases of severe bleeding caused by factor V inhibitors. The use of plasmapheresis in conjunction with chemotherapy is an efficacious and well-tolerated treatment and should be considered in patients with factor V inhibitors.
A comparative study of strains of ebola virus isolated from southern sudan and northern zaire in 1976

During the 1976 Ebola virus outbreak in Sudan, the investigating team gained the impression that fewer haemorrhagic manifestations and few fatalities occurred during the later stages of the epidemic after the virus had undergone several generations in man. This impression was also noted in guinea pigs experimentally infected with Sudanese and Zairean strains of Ebola virus. The virulence of the Sudanese isolates was less intense than isolates emanating from Zaire. Similar findings were seen in monkeys; a Zairean isolate produced fatal infections, whereas monkeys inoculated with a Sudan strain generally recovered. Two monkeys, which had recovered from Sudanese strain infections and had developed high levels of antibody detectable by immunofluorescence, were challenged with the Zairean strain. Both developed viraemias and died. The mechanisms of this “failed protection” are discussed.
Sex Roles in Health Storylines on Prime Time Television: A Content Analysis

This study examined the role of character gender in prime time television health portrayals. A content analysis of 1,291 health-related storylines from three spring seasons (2004–2006) of the ten most popular American television programs measured the frequency of male and female characters in prominent roles and how storylines differed with the sex of the ill or injured character. Our analyses revealed a significantly greater number of male characters. Moreover, storylines with a male ill or injured character were more serious in tone, more likely to take place in a medical setting, and had higher educational value. Proportionally, there were some similarities in storylines across the sexes, however, the absolute differences are striking and may have unfortunate effects on viewers.
Efficient and practical asymmetric synthesis of the taxol C-13 side chain, N-benzoyl-(2R,3S)-3-phenylisoserine, and its analogs via chiral 3-hydroxy-4-aryl-.beta.-lactams through chiral ester enolate-imine cyclocondensation

A highly efficient chiral ester enolate-imine condensation giving 3-hydroxy-4-aryl-β-lactams with >96% ee is successfully applied to the asymmetric synthesis of the enantiomerically pure taxol C-13 side chain, N-benzoyl-(2R,3S)-3-phenylisoserine, and its analogues
A Lagrange multiplier based divide and conquer finite element algorithm

A novel domain decomposition method based on a hybrid variational principle is presented. Prior to any computation, a given finite element mesh is torn into a set of totally disconnected submeshes. First, an incomplete solution is computed in each subdomain. Next, the compatibility of the displacement field at the interface nodes is enforced via discrete, polynomial and/or piecewise polynomial Lagrange multipliers. In the static case, each floating subdomain induces a local singularity that is resolved very efficiently. The interface problem associated with this domain decomposition method is, in general, indefinite and of variable size. A dedicated conjugate projected gradient algorithm is developed for solving the latter problem when it is not feasible to explicitly assemble the interface operator. When implemented on local memory multiprocessors, the proposed methodology requires less interprocessor communication than the classical method of substructuring. It is also suitable for parallel/vector computers with shared memory and compares favorably with factorization based parallel direct methods.
Challenges and Struggles: Lived Experiences of Individuals With Co-occurring Disorders

Approximately 20 million people have substance abuse disorder in a given year, and approximately 7-10 million of them will have co-occurring disorders (CODs) of both mental illness and substance abuse. Individuals with COD have higher rates of other chronic health problems (i.e., diabetes) and multiple rehospitalizations and overutilize emergent services. Despite their elevated risk for physical morbidities, there is a dearth of literature that focuses on the impact for those with COD of having multiple physical health disorders. The purpose of this interpretive study was to understand, describe, and illustrate the social and structural barriers that individuals with COD of mental illness, substance abuse, and general medical conditions encounter in regard to their health care. A purposive sampling of 20 individuals with COD (11 men and 9 women; 65% African American) were recruited from community treatment centers and supportive housing sites. Social and structural barriers to managing medical health conditions while living with COD were identified in three realms: (a) in having interpersonal relationships with health care providers, (b) in negotiating an arduous health care "system," and (c) in trying to manage health conditions while living in unstable shelter.
Effects of Three-Body Forces in a Neutron Star

It is shown that three-body forces give significant contributions to the equation of state of a neutron star at high densities.
The use and misuse of cost-effectiveness analysis.

Cost-effectiveness analysis is indeed a necessary and useful tool to determine optimal resource allocation within the health field. Misuse of the simple CE ratio has however led to incorrect decisions. CE ratios cannot be correctly employed in the following instances: (1) With regard to any program which will result in price changes especially of input factors in the economy; (2) Whenever the total cost or the total quantity of outputs varies among projects; (3) To calculate marginal changes in project size unless data specific to the project size is available, i.e. the planner cannot assume constant costs will prevail in expanding projects. The cost-effectiveness tool has clear advantages over the previously used and time consuming cost-benefit analysis. Not only does cost-effectiveness require less computation but it requires fewer assumptions concerning intangibles which tend to be concentrated on the benefits side. Lastly, this analysis has a useful duality in that any solution unambiguously tells you the least total cost of reaching a given outcome and simultaneously gives you the maximum output for that total cost sum of money.
Lack of formic acid production in rat hepatocytes and human renal proximal tubule cells exposed to chloral hydrate or trichloroacetic acid

The industrial solvent trichloroethylene (TCE) and its major metabolites have been shown to cause formic aciduria in male rats. We have examined whether chloral hydrate (CH) and trichloroacetic acid (TCA), known metabolites of TCE, produce an increase in formic acid in vitro in cultures of rat hepatocytes or human renal proximal tubule cells (HRPTC). The metabolism and cytotoxicity of CH was also examined to establish that the cells were metabolically active and not compromised by toxicity. Rat hepatocytes and HRPTC were cultured in serum-free medium and then treated with 0.3-3mM CH for 3 days or 0.03-3mM CH for 10 days, respectively and formic acid production, metabolism to trichloroethanol (TCE-OH) and TCA and cytotoxicity determined. No increase in formic acid production in rat hepatocytes or HRPTC exposed to CH was observed over and above that due to chemical degradation, neither was formic acid production observed in rat hepatocytes exposed to TCA. HRPTC metabolized CH to TCE-OH and TCA with a 12-fold greater capacity to form TCE-OH versus TCA. Rat hepatocytes exhibited a 1.6-fold and three-fold greater capacity than HRPTC to form TCE-OH and TCA, respectively. CH and TCA were not cytotoxic to rat hepatocytes at concentrations up to 3mM/day for 3 days. With HRPTC, one sample showed no cytotoxicity to CH at concentrations up to 3mM/day for 10 days, while in another cytotoxicity was seen at 1mM/day for 3 days. In summary, increased formic acid production was not observed in rat hepatocytes or HRPTC exposed to TCE metabolites, suggesting that the in vivo response cannot be modelled in vitro. CH was toxic to HRPTC at millimolar concentrations/day over 10 days, while glutathione derived metabolites of TCE were toxic at micromolar concentrations/day over 10 days [Lock, E.A., Reed, C.J., 2006. Trichloroethylene: mechanisms of renal toxicity and renal cancer and relevance to risk assessment. Toxicol. Sci. 19, 313-331] supporting the view that glutathione derived metabolites are likely to be responsible for nephrotoxicity.
Identification of protein components in in vivo human acquired enamel pellicle using LC-ESI-MS/MS.

The acquired enamel pellicle is a thin protein film forming upon exposure of tooth enamel surfaces to saliva. The structural analysis of this integument relies on efficient pellicle harvesting and protein identification procedures. Material from three individual subjects and two pooled samples yielded the identification by LC−ESI−MS/MS of 130 pellicle proteins of which 89 were found in three or more experiments. A high intersubject consistency in pellicle composition was observed. Keywords: acquired enamel pellicle • proteomics • oral • mass spectrometry • LC−ESI−MS/MS • linear ion trap • proteins • saliva
The Motivational Role of Belief

This paper claims that the standard characterization of the motivational role of belief should be supplemented. Beliefs do not only, jointly with desires, cause and rationalize actions that will satisfy the desires, if the beliefs are true; beliefs are also the practical ground of other cognitive attitudes, like imagining, which means beliefs determine whether and when one acts with those other attitudes as the cognitive inputs into choices and practical reasoning. In addition to arguing for this thesis, I take issue with Velleman's argument that belief and imagining cannot be distinguished on the basis of motivational role.
Po-Poster - 04: A daily quality assurance measurement for dynamic MLC treatments

A daily test was developed to assure intensity modulated fields are delivered with a high degree of accuracy and precision using the dynamic multileaf collimator delivery mode. Quality assurance of the MLC, particularly for dynamic mode of delivery, requires positional accuracy of individual leafs, as well as gap width defined by opposing leaf pairs. The daily test was designed to be quick, simple to use, and easy to analyze. With the secondary collimating jaws at 25 cm wide and 39 cm long, a 5mm sliding gap over 5 cm at isocenter placed between two static fields 4 cm off axis was measured dosimetrically using Kodak XV film. The sliding gap allows us to test dosimetrically the positional accuracy defined by Varian in motor encoder counts, as a function of beam on time. The speed of the leaves is controlled by the MUs delivered. Relative filmdosimetry with respect to a baseline film obtained after MLC alinment is performed daily and analyzed using RIT software. In order to facilitate the registration of the QA film to the baseline film, a mounting device utilizing the upper wedge block was used. The QA test was tested using beam shaper files with controlled errors introduced and dose differences of 5% are easily detected. In addition to the daily film QA, as part of morning photon output checks a sliding gap output is measured and these results will be presented as well.
New Magnetic Resonance Imaging Techniques for the Evaluation of Traumatic Brain Injury

Although current computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques have shown great utility in diagnosing various aspects traumatic brain injury, damage resulting from mild diffuse brain injury often goes undetected with these procedures. Newly developed MRI techniques, including magnetization transfer imaging (MTI) and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), have been proposed to have enhanced sensitivities for identifying damage induced by both diffuse and focal brain injury. Results from recent initial studies with experimental models of brain injury suggest that MTI may be useful for evaluating diffuse white matter damage, while DWI may demonstrate regions of focal contusion more acutely and with greater accuracy than conventional MRI procedures.
Biomaterials for stem cell differentiation

The promise of cellular therapy lies in the repair of damaged organs and tissues in vivo as well as generating tissue constructs in vitro for subsequent transplantation. Unfortunately, the lack of available donor cell sources limits its ultimate clinical applicability. Stem cells are a natural choice for cell therapy due to their pluripotent nature and self-renewal capacity. Creating reserves of undifferentiated stem cells and subsequently driving their differentiation to a lineage of choice in an efficient and scalable manner is critical for the ultimate clinical success of cellular therapeutics. In recent years, a variety of biomaterials have been incorporated in stem cell cultures, primarily to provide a conducive microenvironment for their growth and differentiation and to ultimately mimic the stem cell niche. In this review, we examine applications of natural and synthetic materials, their modifications as well as various culture conditions for maintenance and lineage-specific differentiation of embryonic and adult stem cells.
Massive bile peritonitis in infancy due to spontaneous bile duct perforation with portal vein occlusion

Abstract A case of massive bile peritonitis due to spontaneous slough of the junction of the cystic, common, and common hepatic ducts in a 5-wk-old male infant is reported. This was managed successfully by a Roux-en-Y jejunal anastomosis to the remnant of common hepatic duct. Subsequent ascites (4 mo postoperatively) was relieved by peritoneovenous drainage by a Holter valve from the peritoneal cavity to the right atrium. Comments are made relative to an etiologic commonality between spontaneous perforation of the bile ducts in infancy, "congenital" choledochal cyst, and biliary atresia and a possible role for birth-acquired viral infection, particularly with a herpes type of virus, in these disorders.
Extensive and saturable accumulation of paclitaxel by the human platelet.

Little is known about the cellular distribution of paclitaxel in humans. In the present study we examined the distribution of [3H]-paclitaxel in human blood. When 1 μM paclitaxel was incubated with fresh blood at 37°C, the platelet/plasma concentration ratio was 240±17 (mean±SEM), whereas the red blood cell (RBC)/plasma concentration ratio was only 0.59±0.05. In kinetics experiments using platelet-rich plasma, we observed that the platelet accumulation of paclitaxel was highly temperature- and concentration-dependent. Scatchard analysis of the 37°C uptake data demonstrated a dissociation constant (Kapp) of 0.80±0.10 μM and a maximal binding capacity of 672±102 pmol/109 platelets. It is proposed that the platelet accumulation of paclitaxel reflects binding to microtubules and may serve as a useful model for binding to less accessible cellular sites.
Collaborative Competence: Redefining Management Education Through Social Construction

The purpose of this article is to stimulate discussion and further research on the topic of a fundamental and wholesale change in management education across a variety of organizations. The proposed model for management education is focused on interpersonal relationships as core to all aspects of educating managers. The article's premise is that management education should evolve to a design based on management itself as a relational social practice. The emergent model developed in the article rests on a historical analysis of approaches that demonstrate a flawed focus on rationalistic concepts. A new model is grounded in collaborative competence, an approach to achieve results over and above the sum of individual contributions. Collaborative competence is designed based on social construction principles. The episodic criticisms of the value of management education demonstrate that the approaches to educating organizational managers remain lacking. Shifting the pivotal focus of management education from rational and technical notions to a focus on relationships first rooted in social construction provides an enabling framework for organizational performance. The change in focus also addresses the need to educate managers to act in more ethical and socially responsible ways.