cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Application of the Global Reference Atmospheric Model to polar orbit missions

The Global Reference Atmospheric Model (GRAM) is used extensively by NASA and other agencies for simulat.ions of a t m o s ~ ~ pheric conditions from surface to orbital altitudes. The original model W R S based on empirical data which did not include n u m e r ous observations at high altit.udcs (especially 60-100 km) and high latitudes. This altitude and latitude range is especially important for simulations of the planned Space Shuttle polar orbit missions. This paper describes same recent analyses which have yielded revised perturbation magni~tudes for pressure, density and tcmperature for use in GRAM in the height rnnge 65-90 km. Discussion is a l s o presented of other upper atmospheric data sources, such a s from the Middle Atmospheric Program (MAP), which will provide future updates of the 25-100 km altitude sections of GRAM.
Where is the tight link in a home wireless broadband environment

Nowadays, tariffs and packages on offer for broadband worldwide gives a general story of increased speed and reduced prices. As a complementary to fixed-line broadband access, WiFi networks are undoubtedly taking off in many American households. Due to the combination of wireless technology and fixed-line broadband access, prior available bandwidth measurement tools may not be an appropriate solution for a common broadband subscriber. In this paper, we utilize abget in combination with Multi-Router Traffic Grapher (MRTG) to target the tight link of the Internet. Based on the observation that the tight link of the Internet in the context of an in-home wireless broadband access is usually on the edge of the Internet, we then introduce ABODE, a single-end, light-weight tool for estimating available bandwidth in the context of an in-home wireless bandwidth environment. ABODE harnesses ICMP echo request messages to generate stable, rate-controlled traffic flows. Based on the timestamp of ICMP echo reply messages, ABODE performs available bandwidth estimation by calculating the drift of the time centroid over a traffic flow. To verify the accuracy of ABODE, we use MRTG data to compare with the estimation results of ABODE. The measurement shows that ABODE is capable of efficiently estimating available bandwidth in the context of an in-home wireless broadband environment.
Emotionally Acceptable Decision Making in Engineering

Although there are many approaches to decision making, most of them are tools for a Closed World, they do not necessary provide a tool for decision making for such problems which many disciplines are related to and much heuristics or experience are called for.Today, our world is expanding very quickly and the boundaries are disappearing very rapidly. In such an Open World, we need a wide variety of knowledge and experience to make a decisionAnd these pieces are not necessary obtained from the first. As we step forward, we find out what additional information is needed and we change our tracks to pursue better solutions.And constraints also change with progress. In a Closed World, hard constraints remain hard all the way, but in an Open World, hard constraints may change to soft ones later.Thus, how we can manage constraints and how we can postpone our decisions until we have necessary pieces of information are very important in decision making in an Open World.This paper demonstrates that an AI approach provides a very versatile and useful tool for decision making in an open world by taking the case of producing welding procedure specification as an illustrative example.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Hydrodynamic Collisions Suppress Fluctuations in the Rolling Velocity of Adhesive Blood Cells

The slow rolling motion of white blood cells transiently adhering to the interior surface of venules under shear is simulated numerically. Molecular bond breakage events cause a noisiness in rollin...
Reduction in signal overlap results in increased FISH efficiency: implications for preimplantation genetic diagnosis

Background: In the absence of mosaicism, one of the problems of preimplantation genetic diagnosis with FISH is the occurrence of false-negative hybridization results. It has been hypothesized that missing signals are produced by spatial overlap of signals.
Charge transfer leading to multiple ionization of neon, sodium, and magnesium

Absolute cross sections for proton and helium-ion impact on neon, sodium, and magnesium are presented. By using coincidence techniques cross sections for pure single- or double-electron capture are separated from those events where one or more ionizations accompany the capture process. In addition, information about the direct-ionization channel is presented. The present data are combined with previous experimental information to identify specific channels which contribute to the cross sections presented here.
Emetine increases giant miniature endplate potential population at the frog neuromuscular junction

Abstract Intracellular recordings from 90 endplates in untreated cutaneous pectoris muscles of the frog showed that giant miniature endplate potentials (gMEPPs) occurred at a low frequency of 0.017 ± 0.002 s −1 . These spontaneous potentials are several times larger in amplitude and have time to peak twice longer than the normal MEPPs (nMEPPs). The frequency of gMEPPs was not significantly influenced by the presence or absence of tetrodotoxin, calcium or high Mg 2+ . The frequency of gMEPPs was not dependent on the frequency of nMEPPs nor was it influenced by prior prolonged motor nerve stimulation. After a delay of 10–20 min, the antiamebic drug, emetine, (10 μM) increased the frequency of gMEPPs by about 10-fold without affecting nMEPP frequency. The emetine-induced gMEPPs were very similar in characteristics to gMEPPs occurring in untreated muscles. The ability of emetine to increase the gMEPP frequency was not affected by the absence of extracellular calcium. The results indicate that emetine enhances the frequency of the calcium-independent gMEPPs that are normally seen in untreated muscles.
On the limiting properties of social indicators.

Abstract Characteristics of the population and economic measures that constitute traditional social indicators are compared with more recent “quality of life” measures to demonstrate that social indicators are always value statements at the policy level. The possibility of alternative perspectives is illustrated. It is suggested that an awareness of the assumptions implicit in any given indicator is as important as the data they provide.
Nups Take Leave of the Nuclear Envelope to Regulate Transcription

Although components of the nuclear pore complex have been implicated in gene regulation independent of their role at the nuclear envelope, the evidence so far has been indirect. Capelson et al. (2010) and Kalverda et al. (2010) now reveal that certain nucleoporins are actively involved in transcription inside the nucleoplasm of Drosophila cells.
Should older drivers have to prove that they are able to drive

A PPROXIMATELY 23 mill ion licensed drivers 65 years or older currently drive on our roadways; and with the prediction of a rapidly aging society, we expect more and more older persons to share the road. It is estimated that 20 years from now, nearly 25% of all drivers will be older than 65 years, an increase from 15% today. For those who firmly believe that the older driver is, orwill soonbe, ahazardousdriver, these demographic trends presage an emerging public health crisis. There is a public outcry to reduce this perceived threat. We find ourselves in the midst of a debate that pits our core values of personal freedom and individual autonomy against the goal of protection of public safety through the powers of the state. The most common solution offered involves creating laws and regulations that would be broadly applied to all older drivers, ultimately restricting licensingbasedsolelyonadriver’s age.Will this approach, in fact, truly protect the public interest? The question “Should older drivers have to prove that they are able to drive?” appears reasonable to ask, but it carries a subliminal message that reflects our societal biases. The question itself presumes certain truths:
A Role for Rab7 GTPase in Growth Factor-Regulated Cell Nutrition and Apoptosis

When growth factors are removed from many mammalian cells, growth ceases and apoptosis is induced. The small GTPase rab7, which regulates endocytic membrane traffic, participates in this process by mediating the regulated internalization and degradation of nutrient transporters. This process triggers nutrient starvation that helps to induce cell death.
Mid-infrared transmission enhancement through sub-wavelength metal hole array using impedance-matching dielectric layer

The mid-infrared transmission through a 3.7 mum period, two-dimensional sub-wavelength Au metallic hole array integrated on a GaSb/InAs strained layer superlattice nBn photodetector is measured. The surface plasmon-polariton excitation on the Au film induces a peak transmission in the 200 K detector response at 4.2 mum. This transmission is enhanced threefold by the insertion of a SiN x layer between the Au film and the substrate for impedance matching analogous to antireflection coating.
Inheritance, Steady‐State Consumption Inequality, and the Lifetime Earnings Process

This paper presents a tractable model where the effect of inheritance on steady-state consumption inequality can be derived under both linear and piecewise linear bequest functions. As has been found in previous research, the linear bequest function yields inheritances which reduce consumption inequality regardless of the model’s parameters. However, in the piecewise linear model, whether inheritances increase or reduce steady-state consumption inequality depends on the magnitude of the marginal propensity to bequeath, the amount of earnings inequality and the degree of intergenerational earnings mobility.
Pyroelectric and ferroelectric semiconductors: dynamic holographic grating recording, generation of self-focused electron beam, X-rays, and neutrons

Optical and electrical effects in semiconductors and ferroelectric crystals will be modeled. Standard photorefractive equations are supplemented by the equation of state for the polarization density following Devonshire-Ginsburg-Landau (DGL) approach. We have derived equations for pyroelectric and photogalvanic contribution to the holographic grating recording in ferroelectric materials. We will consider double-functional holographic interferometer, based on holographic pyroelectric current and optical beam coupling. Crystal electrostatic accelerators, based on charging of ferroelectric crystals by pyroelectric and photogalvanic effects are discussed in relation to generation of self-focused electron beam, X-rays and neutrons.
Detection of Antibody against Fungal Glucosylceramide in Immunocompromised Patients: A Potential New Diagnostic Approach for Cryptococcosis

We have developed an ELISA to determine the value of anti-glucosylceramide antibody for the prediction of disseminated cryptococcosis in immunocompromised subjects and performed a clinical prospective study at the Medical University of South Carolina. The study enrolled a total of 53 patients who were free of active fungal diseases at the time of enrollment but at risk of developing one because they were all immunocompromised, e.g., (1) patients positive for HIV and (2) patients post- or awaiting solid organ transplantation. Among 53 patients enrolled, two patients developed invasive cryptococcosis, and in both patients, IgM anti-GlcCer was detected in sera using the ELISA at least 6 weeks prior to the clinical presentation of the brain disease. These results were corroborated by a cryptococcal antigen lateral flow assay, which was also positive in serum prior to the development of meningoencephalitis. However, a high number of positive results were also detected in patients with no evidence of cryptococcosis. This study highlights the potential utility of this new assay in early diagnostic testing algorithms for patients at risk for cryptococcosis, but further investigations are needed to validate the sensitivity and specificity of the glucosylceramide ELISA as a predictor of cryptococcosis.
A smart nonharmonic magnetic composite with novel sensor applications

Floatation or levitation, as well as free suspension are intriguing phenomenon. Both require minimum in energy. However, as Lord Kelvin observed only composite systems of diamagnets with permanent and induced magnets can achieve stable equilibrium. Permanent magnets, in contrast to electromagnets retain their ability to attract and hold magnetic objects without any external energy expenditure. This persistent property similar to superconductors is entirely quantum mechanical. Recently M.V. Berry, A.K. Geim and others have re-instigated interest in the stability criteria of these systems. In this work, stability in the horizontal plane is guaranteed by the localization of the holding field. Smart response gives rise to vertical stability. Smartness causes the net force to be repulsive when the object is too close and attractive when far. Here we report for the first time, the production of smart response in a system with diamagnetic and ferromagnetic constituents. The restoring force, F is strongly asymmetric and non-linear with displacement (z); F(z) is non-harmonic, does not follow hook's law. Two types of diamagnetic materials bismuth and pyrolytic graphite were investigated. Consistent with the higher susceptibility, the later provides a factor of two stronger repulsive forces under ambient conditions. Also, for the first time we show that this smart system is extremely un- harmonic. For stable equilibrium, restoring force is essential and sufficient however harmonic behavior is not essential.
Studies on Alkaline Phosphatase in Hypophosphatasia

Central to an understanding of the pathogenesis of hypophosphatasia is the question of whether or not there is a deficiency of alkaline phosphatase (AP) activity in bone. A recently reported patient with the full syndrome had consistently normal total AP activity in serum and the suggestion was made that deficiency of phosphatase was not of primary pathogenic importance [SCRIVER and CAMERON, NEW Engl.J.Med. 281: 684, 1969]. We have studied two children who have the typical osseous and dental lesions of hypophosphatasia, markedly increased excretion of phosphoethanolamine, and total activity of serum AP in the normal adult range. AP was undetectable histochemically in leukocytes of the patients and was normal in family members. Extraction of the patient's leukocytes yielded extremely low activity. Electrophoresis of the patients' sera on polyacrylamide gel consistently yielded a single major band of phophatase activity with a rate of migration intermediate between the rates of the two fast bands seen in normal sera. The two fast bands in normal sera have been identified as hepatic and osseous AP by comparison with extracts of tissues. Although the dominant band in the patients appeared to migrate differently from any seen in normal sera, there were no unusual isozyme patterns of AP from sera and leukoscytes of family memebers. Studies of sensitivities of various AP to heat, 1-phenylalanine, and urea did not clearly distinguish the patient's sera from normal sera, nor did these studies indicate clearly the tissues sources of serum enzymes. We conclude that abnormalities of AP do exist in hypophosphatasia, and that most of the AP in sera of patients is derived from tissues other than bone.
Special issue from ACM NOSSDAV 2007

Highly interactive video-on-demand, peer-assisted IPTV services, multiplayer online games and many other multimedia systems and applications became integral parts of our lives. At the ACM Network and Operating Systems Support for Digital Video and Audio Workshop (NOSSDAV) in Urbana, IL, USA, June 2007, researchers from many countries met to present their results and solutions to the various multimedia system and networking challenges of leading multimedia services, games and applications. At NOSSDAV 2007, 18 papers were presented and discussed. Out of these papers, the chairs of NOSSDAV 2007 selected eight papers from the program and asked the authors to submit the extended version of their NOSSDAV papers to a special issue of Springer Multimedia Systems Journal (MMSJ). Each extended submission was reviewed by three reviewers who carefully considered the presented extensions as well as the content of the whole journal paper. Out of the MMSJ review process, only three submissions had exciting new results in addition to the presentedNOSSDAVwork, and were accepted for publication in a special issue of MMSJ. The three accepted papers address various workload characterization issues, traffic analysis and performance optimizations of well-known multimedia services and systems. Wewill brieflypresent eachpaper taking top–downapproach. Wewill start with a paper that discusses the user characterization and workload analysis of a highly interactive video-ondemand (VoD) service. Then, we will provide an overview of the second paper that addresses the capacity and cost optimization of VOD service in peer-assisted IPTV system.
Planned versus unplanned risks: Neurocognitive predictors of subtypes of adolescents' risk behavior

Risk behavior contributes to substantial morbidity and mortality during adolescence. This study examined neurocognitive predictors of proposed subtypes of adolescent risk behavior: planned (premeditated) versus unplanned (spontaneous). Adolescents (N = 69, 49% male, M = 15.1 [1.0] years) completed neurocognitive tasks (Iowa Gambling Task [IGT], and Game of Dice Task [GDT]) and a self-report measure indicating whether past-year risk behaviors were planned or unplanned. As hypothesized, identifying more beneficial choices on the neurocognitive tasks and perceiving benefits of risk behavior to outweigh costs predicted engagement in planned versus unplanned risk behavior. This study is the first to use neurocognitive assessments to differentiate planned and unplanned subtypes of risk behavior. Understanding mechanisms underlying these subtypes may inform prevention programs targeting specific contributors to adolescent risk behavior.
Visual item verification for fraud prevention in retail self-checkout

Many modern retail stores have self-checkout stations where customers can ring up their own orders without the assistance of any store personnel. To promote customer honesty these systems often weigh each item as it is placed in the bag to confirm that it has the expected mass for the product scanned. In our system we augment this basic check with an assessment of the item's visual appearance to further ensure that the correct code has been entered.
Overview of the U.S. Fusion Materials Sciences Program

Highlights of recent U.S. fusion materials research activities are summarized, including multiscale materials modeling and experimental results. Recent first principles atomistic calculations on vanadium and iron-helium have found that previous interatomic potentials incorrectly predict several important point defect properties. Molecular dynamics simulations of displacement cascades are now approaching energies equivalent to 14 MeV fusion neutrons. Considerable effort is being devoted to understanding the fundamental mechanisms of low temperature radiation hardening and embrittlement. Work is also in progress to determine the allowable temperature and dose operating regimes for candidate reduced activation structural materials (including transmutant helium effects). New compositions of reduced activation steels and vanadium alloys with potential for significantly improved properties are being investigated. Due to recent improvements in SiC/SiC ceramic composites, engineering-relevant mechanical property tests are being introduced to replace historical qualitative screening tests. Materials research in support of the ITER burning plasma physics machine is briefly described.
Higher chest wall dose results in improved locoregional outcome in patients receiving postmastectomy radiation.

Purpose Randomized trials demonstrating decreased locoregional recurrence (LRR) and improved overall survival (OS) in women receiving postmastectomy radiation therapy (PMRT) used up to 50 Gy to the chest wall (CW), but in practice, many centers boost the CW dose to ≥60 Gy, despite lack of data supporting this approach. We evaluated the relationship between CW dose and clinical outcome. Methods and Materials We retrospectively reviewed medical records of 582 consecutively treated patients who received PMRT between January 1999 and December 2009. We collected data on patient, disease, treatment characteristics, and outcomes of LRR, progression-free survival (PFS) and OS. Results Median follow-up from the date of diagnosis was 44.7 months. The cumulative 5-year incidence of LRR as first site of failure was 6.2%. CW dose for 7% (43 patients) was ≤50.4 Gy (range, 41.4–50.4 Gy) and 93% received >50.4 Gy (range, 52.4–74.4 Gy). A CW dose of >50.4 Gy vs. ≤50.4 Gy was associated with lower incidence of LRR, a 60-month rate of 5.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.7–8.2) vs. 12.7% (95% CI, 4.5–25.3; p = 0.054). Multivariate hazard ratio (HR) for LRR controlling for race, receptor status, and stage was 2.62 (95% CI, 1.02–7.13; p = 0.042). All LRR in the low-dose group occurred in patients receiving 50 to 50.4 Gy. Lower CW dose was associated with worse PFS (multivariate HR, 2.73; 95% CI, 1.64–4.56; p p Conclusions The addition of a CW boost above 50.4 Gy resulted in improved locoregional control and survival in this cohort patients treated with PMRT for stage II–III breast cancer. The addition of a CW boost to standard-dose PMRT is likely to benefit selected high-risk patients. The optimal technique, target volume, and patient selection criteria are unknown. The use of a CW boost should be studied prospectively, as has been done in the setting of breast conservation.
Poor quality evidence to support the use of biofeedback for the treatment of functional constipation in adults

Commentary on : Woodward S, Norton C, Chiarelli P. Biofeedback for treatment of chronic idiopathic constipation in adults. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2014;3:CD008486. Most patients with chronic constipation respond to conservative and pharmacological treatments. However, a minority of patients are refractory to treatment, one of the reasons being abnormalities of defaecation characterised by inability to relax the striated muscles which facilitate defaecation and/or ineffective defaecatory propulsive forces. Biofeedback, which employs instrumental learning through visual or auditory feedback using anorectal manometry or electromyography, has been recommended to improve muscle coordination in selected patients …
Cerebral cortical lesions in multiple sclerosis detected by MR imaging at 8 Tesla.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Conventional imaging of ex-vivo brain at 1.5T in multiple sclerosis (MS) detects only a small fraction of the gray matter cerebral cortical lesions that can be detected by pathology. Our purpose was to examine if imaging at 8T can detect plaques in cortical gray matter (CGM) not evident at 1.5T. METHODS: An ex-vivo brain obtained at autopsy from a patient with MS was formalin fixed and 1 cm coronal slices were examined using MR imaging at 8T. RESULTS: Numerous cerebral cortical lesions not evident at 1.5T were seen at 8T. Lesions were easily identified using gradient-echo and spin-echo (SE) as well as diffusion images. MR imaging at 8T identified many of the types of plaques previously evident only by pathology. The magnitude of the cortical involvement in this 1 patient was severe. Lesions in the gray matter readily visible by high-field MR imaging were sometimes barely visible by pathology. MR imaging at 8T often facilitated the detection of such plaques by pathology. CONCLUSION: This study establishes the utility of high-field imaging at 8T in the delineation of plaques in the cerebral CGM in MS.
Screening and identification of genetic loci involved in producing more/denser inclusion bodies in Escherichia coli

Many proteins and peptides have been used in therapeutic or industrial applications. They are often produced in microbial production hosts by fermentation. Robust protein production in the hosts and efficient downstream purification are two critical factors that could significantly reduce cost for microbial protein production by fermentation. Producing proteins/peptides as inclusion bodies in the hosts has the potential to achieve both high titers in fermentation and cost-effective downstream purification. Manipulation of the host cells such as overexpression/deletion of certain genes could lead to producing more and/or denser inclusion bodies. However, there are limited screening methods to help to identify beneficial genetic changes rendering more protein production and/or denser inclusion bodies. We report development and optimization of a simple density gradient method that can be used for distinguishing and sorting E. coli cells with different buoyant densities. We demonstrate utilization of the method to screen genetic libraries to identify a) expression of glyQS loci on plasmid that increased expression of a peptide of interest as well as the buoyant density of inclusion body producing E. coli cells; and b) deletion of a host gltA gene that increased the buoyant density of the inclusion body produced in the E. coli cells. A novel density gradient sorting method was developed to screen genetic libraries. Beneficial host genetic changes could be exploited to improve recombinant protein expression as well as downstream protein purification.
Antigen-specific splenic CD4+ and CD8+ regulatory T cells generated via the eye, suppress Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis either at the priming or at the effector phase

The injection of antigen into the ocular anterior chamber (AC) induces the generation of splenic CD4+ and CD8+ regulatory T (Treg) cells, specific for the antigen injected into the AC. These Treg cells inhibit the induction (CD4+) and also the expression (CD8+) of a delayed-type hypersensitivity response. The ability of AC-induced self-antigen-specific Treg cells in modulating autoimmunity is not well defined. Here we show that an injection of encephalitogenic myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG35–55) peptide into the anterior chamber of the eye (AC-MOG), before the induction of or during established experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) induced by MOG35–55, suppresses the induction or progression of EAE, respectively. CD4+ or CD8+ splenic Treg cells induced by an injection of AC-MOG prevent EAE either at the inductive (priming) or at the progressive (effector) phase, respectively. This suppression of EAE by an AC-MOG injection or by intravenous transfer of splenic regulatory cells induced by an AC-MOG injection is specific for the antigen injected into the AC. Additionally, our data suggest that splenic CD8+ Treg cells that suppress active EAE may use a transforming growth factor (TGF)-β-dependent suppression mechanism while the suppression of the induction of EAE by the AC-induced CD4+ Treg cells is independent of TGF-β. Thus, we show for the first time that regulation of EAE at the priming or the chronic phase requires different phenotypes of Treg cells. Hence, it is important to consider the phenotype of Treg cells while designing effective cell-based therapies against autoimmune disorders.
A survey of mobility management in next-generation all-IP-based wireless systems

Next-generation wireless systems are envisioned to have an IP-based infrastructure with the support of heterogeneous access technologies. One of the research challenges for next generation all-IP-based wireless systems is the design of intelligent mobility management techniques that take advantage of IP-based technologies to achieve global roaming among various access technologies. Next-generation wireless systems call for the integration and interoperation of mobility management techniques in heterogeneous networks. In this article the current state of the art for mobility management in next-generation all-IP-based wireless systems is presented. The previously proposed solutions based on different layers are reviewed, and their qualitative comparisons are given. A new wireless network architecture for mobility management is introduced, and related open research issues are discussed in detail.
Distributed loading effect for infrared FSS

Frequency selective surfaces (FSS) are traditionally resonant periodic antenna structures patterned on a surface for the purpose of spectral filtering. At infrared (IR) frequencies, FSS structures have been successfully demonstrated as both transmission filters and surface emissivity modifiers. In this paper, distributed loading effect for infrared FSS was investigated using four pure metals as distributed load: aluminum, gold, nickel, and titanium.
Divergent Roles of Angiotensin II AT1 and AT2 Receptors in Modulating Coronary Microvascular Function

Angiotensin II (Ang II) is a potent vasoconstrictor in the peripheral circulation and has been implicated in many cardiovascular diseases associated with elevated oxidative stress. However, its direct vasomotor action and its linkage to oxidative stress-induced vascular dysfunction in the coronary microcirculation remain elusive. In this study, we directly assessed the vasomotor action of Ang II in isolated porcine coronary arterioles and also examined whether Ang II can modulate endothelium-dependent nitric oxide (NO)-mediated dilation via superoxide production. Ang II evoked vasoconstriction at a low concentration (1 nmol/L) and dilations at higher concentrations (>10 nmol/L). Ang II type 1 (AT(1)) receptor antagonist losartan abolished vasoconstriction, whereas Ang II type 2 (AT(2)) receptor antagonist PD 123319 eliminated vasodilation. Adenosine stimulated a significant arteriolar NO production and dilation. NO synthase inhibitor N(G)-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA) abolished stimulated NO production and attenuated vasodilation. Pretreating vessels with a subvasomotor concentration of Ang II (0.1 nmol/L, 60 minutes) mimicked inhibitory effects of L-NMMA. Ang II-mediated inhibition was not observed in the presence of L-NMMA or after endothelial removal but was prevented by losartan, superoxide scavenger TEMPOL, or NADPH oxidase inhibitor apocynin. Dihydroethidium staining showed that Ang II elicited losartan- and TEMPOL-sensitive superoxide production in arterioles. These results demonstrate that Ang II evokes AT1 receptor-mediated vasoconstriction and AT2 receptor-mediated vasodilation of coronary arterioles. Ang II at a subvasomotor level impairs endothelium-dependent NO-mediated dilation attributable to elevated superoxide production via AT1 receptor activation of NADPH oxidase. These data may partly explain the impaired coronary flow regulation in heart diseases associated with an upregulated renin-angiotensin system.
G Proteins Gαi1/3 Are Critical Targets for Bordetella pertussis Toxin-Induced Vasoactive Amine Sensitization

Pertussis toxin (PTX) is an AB5-type exotoxin produced by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis, the causative agent of whooping cough. In vivo intoxication with PTX elicits a variety of immunologic and inflammatory responses, including vasoactive amine sensitization (VAAS) to histamine (HA), serotonin (5-HT), and bradykinin (BDK). Previously, by using a forward genetic approach, we identified the HA H1 receptor (Hrh1/H1R) as the gene in mice that controls differential susceptibility to B. pertussis PTX-induced HA sensitization (Bphs). Here we show, by using inbred strains of mice, F1 hybrids, and segregating populations, that, unlike Bphs, PTX-induced 5-HT sensitivity (Bpss) and BDK sensitivity (Bpbs) are recessive traits and are separately controlled by multiple loci unlinked to 5-HT and BDK receptors, respectively. Furthermore, we found that PTX sensitizes mice to HA independently of Toll-like receptor 4, a purported receptor for PTX, and that the VAAS properties of PTX are not dependent upon endothelial caveolae or endothelial nitric oxide synthase. Finally, by using mice deficient in individual Gαi/o G-protein subunits, we demonstrate that Gαi1 and Gαi3 are the critical in vivo targets of ADP-ribosylation underlying VAAS elicited by PTX exposure.
Use of leuco-dyes in the quantitative colorimetric microdetermination of hemoglobin and other heme compounds.

Sensitivity, stability, and specificity of the color-producing reaction of hydrogen peroxide with benzidine, leucomalachite green, or o -dianisidine were tested in numerous systems containing hemoglobin and other hemoproteins. Use of urea or low temperature (to -12 °C), or both, was highly beneficial, especially with leuco-malachite green, for which the color reaction was stable, after about 15 min, for longer than 24 h, with a colorless blank. Absorbance was 0.3 at a final hemoglobin concentration of 0.27 mg/liter. Nonspecific color produced by substances such as FeCl3 and ascorbic acid was completely eliminated. Of the three leuco-dyes studied, only benzidine yielded a completely linear calibration curve, but its relative instability and reported carcinogenicity are serious disadvantages. No system tested eliminated completely the known inhibition by plasma of the peroxidase activity of these leuco dyes.
Health Facility Surveys: An Introduction

Health facility surveys come in various guises. One dimension in which they vary is their motivation. Some seek to understand better links between households and providers. Others seek to understand better provider behavior and performance. Still others seek to understand the interrelationships between providers, while yet others seek to shed light on the linkages between government and providers. Health facility surveys differ too in the data they collect, in part due to the different motivations. Surveys also vary in the way they collect data, some relying on direct observation, some on record review, and some on interview. Some quality data are collected through clinical vignettes. Facility data have been put to a variety of uses, including planning and budgeting; monitoring, evaluation, and promoting accountability; and research. Lindel and Wagstaff review some of the literature under each heading and offer some conclusions regarding the current state of health facility surveys.
RAFT polymerization of ciprofloxacin prodrug monomers for the controlled intracellular delivery of antibiotics

Prodrug monomers derived from the antibiotic ciprofloxacin were synthesized with phenolic or aliphatic esters linking the drug to a polymerizable methacrylate group. RAFT polymerization of these monomers exhibited linear pseudo-first-order kinetics and Mnvs. conversion plots, and low Đ values throughout the polymerization. Prodrug monomers were then copolymerized with polyethyleneglycol methacrylate to yield hydrophilic copolymers with narrow Đ values. A poly(O950) macroCTA was also synthesized and chain extended with the antibiotic monomers to form diblock copolymers. The resultant copolymers and diblock copolymers were characterized with 1H and 19F NMR and found to contain 16.5 and 30–35 wt% ciprofloxacin, respectively. DLS measurements demonstrated that the copolymers remained unimeric between pH 5.6–7.4, while the diblock copolymers formed nanoparticles with diameters between 30–40 nm at physiological pH. Drug release kinetics were measured in human serum via HPLC analysis. Copolymers containing ciprofloxacin linked via phenolic esters showed faster hydrolysis rates with 50% drug released at 120 h, whereas copolymers with the corresponding aliphatic ester linkages showed the same drug release over 22 d. Diblock copolymers with a discrete ciprofloxacin block and a poly(O950) stabilizing block self-assembled into micelles, and exhibited reduced hydrolysis rates for both ester linked drugs. In vitro toxicity measurements in RAW 264.7 cells showed the copolymers to be nontoxic up to 20 mg mL−1 following a 24 h incubation period. The polymer drugs were shown to be active against Burkholderia thailandensis in a bacteria-macrophage co-culture model of melioidosis with MIC values of 6.0 and 0.6 mM for the aliphatic and phenyl ester linked copolymeric prodrugs, respectively.
What we teach: a fellow's perspective on house staff education.

As a specialty, cardiology holds a unique position in the realm of medical education. Not only is there a vast amount of research and literature devoted to this field, but it also comprises several distinct subspecialties, each a complex and fascinating science unto itself. Add to this the multitude
Case 62: A Case of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)

A 5-year-old boy (20 kg) with a diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is scheduled for a lumbar puncture with intrathecal injection of methotrexate and placement of a Port-a-Cath. The boy was diagnosed with ALL 4 weeks before. At that time, a chemotherapy regimen was commenced (vincristine, dexamethasone, and asparaginase). Previous anesthetic before the diagnosis of ALL had been uneventful. His preoperative hematology and clotting studies were normal. Electrolyte panel was not done.
Periodization and Historiography of Indian Philosophy, edited by Eli Franco

Originating in a panel of the 14th World Sanskrit Conference in Kyoto in 2009, the current volume presents twelve papers. They are of uneven length and conception as well as differing in approach a...
Path Dependency and Governance in German Family Firms

Dynastic family businesses pursue a double aim. They strive for economic success and attempt to shield the family's longterm influence against outsiders. As a consequence, their choice of governance reflects an idiosyncratic balance between remaining independent and tapping into the opportunities of the market. Autonomy-oriented “closed” governance can lead to problems in integrating external capital and knowledge. More market-oriented “open” governance can make a firm more vulnerable to outside influence. German family firms have struck a balance between the two models since the mid-nineteenth century. Their choice of governance is a response to the challenges and opportunities of the environment, and at various times they are influenced by corporate law, alternative finance options, and inheritance law.
Theoretical Bounds on the Estimation of Transverse Displacement, Transverse Strain and Poisson's Ratio in Elastography:

The Cramer-Rao Lower Bounds (CRLB) are derived for the displacement and strain estimation in directions orthogonal to the ultrasonic beam axis, using a previously-described recorrelation method of axial, lateral and elevational motion estimation. We also compare it to the lateral tracking method that involves the sole use of the axial signal in the transverse direction. Our theoretical results, verified with simulations and phantom experiments, show that elastography is capable of measuring axial and transverse strain at up to 10% axially applied compression. Finally, we predict the performance of the estimation of the Poisson's ratio using decoupled axial and lateral estimates that result from the recorrelation method.
Lxr-driven enterocyte lipid droplet formation delays transport of ingested lipids

Liver X receptors (Lxrs) are master regulators of cholesterol catabolism, driving the elimination of cholesterol from the periphery to the lumen of the intestine. Development of pharmacological agents to activate Lxrs has been hindered by synthetic Lxr agonists' induction of hepatic lipogenesis and hypertriglyceridemia. Elucidating the function of Lxrs in regulating enterocyte lipid handling might identify novel aspects of lipid metabolism that are pharmacologically amenable. We took a genetic approach centered on the single Lxr gene nr1h3 in zebrafish to study the role of Lxr in enterocyte lipid metabolism. Loss of nr1h3 function causes anticipated gene regulatory changes and cholesterol intolerance, collectively reflecting high evolutionary conservation of zebrafish Lxra function. Intestinal nr1h3 activation delays transport of absorbed neutral lipids, with accumulation of neutral lipids in enterocyte cytoplasmic droplets. This delay in transport of ingested neutral lipids protects animals from hypercholesterolemia and hepatic steatosis induced by a high-fat diet. On a gene regulatory level, Lxra induces expression of acsl3a, which encodes acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 3a, a lipid droplet-anchored protein that directs fatty acyl chains into lipids. Forced overexpression of acls3a in enterocytes delays, in part, the appearance of neutral lipids in the vasculature of zebrafish larvae. Activation of Lxr in the intestine cell-autonomously regulates the rate of delivery of absorbed lipids by inducting a temporary lipid intestinal droplet storage depot.
Engagement in outpatient care for persons living with HIV in the United States.

Abstract Prior studies that have assessed engagement within the various stages of care for persons living with HIV (PLWH) studied patients receiving care in HIV medical care facilities. These data are not representative of care received throughout the United States, as not all PLWH receive care in HIV clinics. This study evaluated engagement in outpatient care and healthcare utilization for PLWH, beyond facilities that specialize in HIV. Cross-sectional data were from the 2009–2010 National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey. Levels of care included receiving any care, receiving HIV-related care, established in care, engaged in care, and prescribed antiretroviral therapy (ARV). Factors associated with ARV prescription were determined by logistic regression. We analyzed data for ∼2.6 million outpatient clinic visits for PLWH. Of these, 90% were receiving HIV-related care, 86% were established in care, 75% were engaged in care, and 65% were prescribed ARV. In stratified analysis, the proportion of PWLH...
Surface-Layer Relaxation in the Dielectric Spectrum of CaF2 Doped With GdF3.

CaF2 crystals doped with 0.1 percent GdF3 were observed to develop surface layers when annealed above 700 °C in air, during application of Pt paste electrodes. The conductivity in these surface layers was much higher than in the bulk, due presumably to the large numbers of anion vacancies produced by dissolved oxygen. The presence of these high conductivity surface layers produced a relaxation in the dielectric spectrum with (1) an approximately temperature-independent magnitude, Δκ, (2) a relaxation time controlled by the conductivity of the surface layers, and influenced therefore by heat treatment of the specimen, and (3) an activation energy equal to that for conductivity of the surface layers, about 0.9 eV. This relaxation is sufficiently similar to dielectric relaxations observed previously in ionic crystals and ascribed to defect pairs to suggest that great care must be taken in interpreting dielectric measurements in these materials. What is thought to be dipole relaxation may in fact be due to the presence of thin layers accidentally present on the crystal. There is a marked electrode polarization effect in these crystals. The electrode capacitance at not-too-low frequencies depended upon the frequency and both the number and mobility of the charge carriers with 3/2 power laws.
Failure to transfer bullous pemphigoid with serum from patients.

SummaryThree rhesus monkeys were transfused with plasma from three different patients with pemphigoid. The antibody was bound firmly to the basement membrane zone, as determined by direct immunofluorescence, but no clinical or histologic lesions were produced. Even traumatizing the skin when antibody binding was maximal failed to produce lesions. These experiments cast doubt on the direct role of pemphigoid antibody in the pathogenesis of this disease.
Abstract 190: Disruption of P90 Ribosomal S6 Kinase Binding 3 to Muscle A-kinase Anchoring Protein In Vivo Via Adeno-associated Virus Expression of a Competing Peptide Attenuates Pressure Overload-induced Cardiac Hypertrophy

RATIONALE: Cardiac myocyte hypertrophy is the main compensatory response to chronic stress in the heart. p90 ribosomal S6 kinase (RSK) family members are effectors for extracellular signal-regulated kinases that induce myocyte growth. RSK3 contains a unique N-terminal domain that mediates RSK3 binding to the muscle A-kinase anchoring protein (mAKAPβ) scaffold. We have previously published that disruption of RSK3-mAKAPβ complexes using a competing peptide inhibited the phenylephrine-induced hypertrophy of neonatal ventricular myocytes in vitro. In vivo, RSK3 gene deletion in mice attenuated the concentric cardiac hypertrophy induced by pressure overload. We hypothesize that RSK3 anchoring to mAKAPβ in myocytes is required for cardiac hypertrophy in vivo. METHODS AND RESULTS: Adeno-associated viruses (AAV) are gene therapy vectors in development for the treatment of human diseases owing to their nonpathogenic capability for transducing non-dividing cells and their long-term transgene expression. We have used a recombinant AAV2/9 vector to express a mAKAPβ RSK3-binding domain (RBD)-GFP fusion protein under the control of the cardiac myocyte-specific cardiac troponin T promoter. 3 day-old C57BL/6 mice were injected intraperitoneally with either AAV-RBD-GFP or AAV-GFP control virus. At 8 weeks of age mice were subjected to transverse aortic constriction to induce pressure overload (TAC) for two weeks. Cardiac hypertrophy was attenuated in mice injected with the AAV-RBD-GFP virus (biventricular weight indexed to tibial length (mg/mm): 7.7, 8.6, and 9.2 for AAV-RBD, AAV-GFP and non-injected TAC cohorts, respectively; p<0.05 vs. both controls). Echocardiography both corroborated the inhibition of hypertrophy and revealed no deleterious effect on cardiac function attributable to the AAV-RBD-GFP vector. CONCLUSIONS: Anchored RSK3 regulates pathologic myocyte growth. AAV can successfully deliver a competing peptide inhibiting pathological hypertrophy and should be investigated further as a prevention and/or treatment for heart failure.
Integrated sequence and immunology filovirus database at Los Alamos

The Ebola outbreak of 2013-15 infected more than 28 000 people and claimed more lives than all previous filovirus outbreaks combined. Governmental agencies, clinical teams, and the world scientific community pulled together in a multifaceted response ranging from prevention and disease control, to evaluating vaccines and therapeutics in human trials. As this epidemic is finally coming to a close, refocusing on long-term prevention strategies becomes paramount. Given the very real threat of future filovirus outbreaks, and the inherent uncertainty of the next outbreak virus and geographic location, it is prudent to consider the extent and implications of known natural diversity in advancing vaccines and therapeutic approaches. To facilitate such consideration, we have updated and enhanced the content of the filovirus portion of Los Alamos Hemorrhagic Fever Viruses Database. We have integrated and performed baseline analysis of all family ITALIC! Filoviridaesequences deposited into GenBank, with associated immune response data, and metadata, and we have added new computational tools with web-interfaces to assist users with analysis. Here, we (i) describe the main features of updated database, (ii) provide integrated views and some basic analyses summarizing evolutionary patterns as they relate to geo-temporal data captured in the database and (iii) highlight the most conserved regions in the proteome that may be useful for a T cell vaccine strategy.Database URL:www.hfv.lanl.gov.