cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The ratio of P40 monomer to dimer is an important determinant of IL-12 bioactivity

IL-12 is a 75 kDa heterodimer (IL12p70) comprised of independently regulated disulfide-linked 40 kDa (p40) and 35 kDa (p35) subunits. The p40 subunit exists extracellularly as a monomer (IL12p40) or dimer (IL12(p40)2) and can antagonize the action of IL12p70. Given the disagreement in the literature over the physiologic roles for IL12p70, IL12p40, and IL12(p40)2, we asked whether the bioactivity of IL-12 depended only on the concentration of the IL12p70 subunit alone or whether the relative concentrations of IL12p70, IL12p40, and IL12(p40)2 and their competitive binding with the IL-12 receptor are essential for determining IL-12 bioactivity under simulated human physiologic conditions. A mathematical model for IL-12 bioactivity was created by incorporating the production of IL12p70, IL12p40, and IL12(p40)2 by mature human DC and the interaction of these species with the IL-12 receptor. Using this model, we explored the effects of IFN-gamma, IL-4, and PGE2 concentrations on the bioactivity of IL-12. The simulations suggest that the concentration of IL12p70 alone is not indicative of IL-12 bioactivity; rather, the bioactivity of IL-12 produced by mature DC depends on IL12p70, IL12p40, and IL12(p40)2 production and their competitive interaction with the IL-12 receptor. In addition to the typically measured quantities of total p40 (IL12p40 + IL12(p40)2) and IL12p70, the ratio of IL12p40 to IL12(p40)2 is an equally important, yet underreported, determinant of IL-12 bioactivity.
Migration places and nonmetropolitan development.

This report considers how nonmetropolitan areas are compacted by changes taking place within the larger system with which they are bound and how beyond being passive recipients nonmetropolitan areas can initiate change that moves up rather than down the hierarchy. This review is restricted to the US. Migration patterns vividly demonstrate the interconnectivity between metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas. Until the late 1960s the migration process was largely uni-directional: people moved from rural to metropolitan areas and a major focus of rural development policy was "how to keep them down on the farm." One interpretation of the growth of nonmetropolitan areas was that it was spillover from metropolitan areas. Noneconomic factors such including amenities have become recognized as important factors in both migration and the shaping of regional growth and decline. Change in nonmetropolitan patterns needs to be put into a regional context because the migration reversal did not occur everywhere simultaneously. A good case can be made that there will not be a long-run return to a non-metropolitan-to-metropolitan migration pattern. The conventional wisdom is that the future of rural areas depends on their ability to adapt to the changes in their primary function from agricultural services to manufacturing. Nonmetropolitan manufacturing growth ended by 1980. Employment decline had a larger impact on total economic activity in nonmetropolitan areas because the goods-producing sector accounts for a larger proportion of total employment in nonmetropolitan than in metropolitan areas. According to the product-life-cycle model the newer innovative industries locate in metropolitan areas and trickle down to rural areas only after they are producing standardized products that require low-skilled labor but there are no guarantees that the future will be like the past. The decentralization of manufacturing into nonmetropolitan areas has been attributed in part to corporate restructuring. Nonmetropolitan communities increasingly undertake various types of promotional activities to foster economic development. The presence of active industrial development groups in nonmetropolitan areas has not been shown to be an effective means of generating jobs. Most of the research related to nonmetropolitan development emphasizes the economic dimension of life or the role of specific processes such as labor/capital relationships but wages are what people trade off for a life style or stress level.
Construct Validity of the Mccarthy Scales of Children's Abilities: Regression Analysis With Preschool Children:

A sample of 240 preschool children was used to assess the con struct validity of each of the McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilities (MSCA). Individual subtests were used in a stepwise regression analysis of MSCA scales. This analysis supported McCarthy's con struct of the General Cognitive Index (GCI) as well as the Verbal and Perceptual-Performance Scales. Construct of the Quantitative Scale was vague. For this sample, neither the Memory or Motor Scale construct was documented. This study indicated that clinical interpretation of the GCI may be warranted, but diagnostic use of the Memory or Motor Scales with preschool children should be avoided.
Logo Mastery and Spatial Problem-Solving by Young Children: Effects of Logo Language Training, Route-Strategy Training, and Learning Styles on Immediate Learning and Transfer

This study examines children's abilities 1) to learn to program with a single keystroke, ten command Logo system enabling them to produce multiple command sequences to solve on-screen problems, 2) ...
Bayesian hierarchical modeling of larval walleye (Sander vitreus) abundance and mortality: Accounting for spatial and temporal variability on a large river

Abstract Larval fish are extremely variable in space and time while sampling of populations is generally restricted and incomplete. However, estimates of abundance and mortality are important for understanding population dynamics, habitat quality, and anthropogenic impacts. Acknowledging and addressing variability during sampling and data analysis are imperative to producing informative estimates. A combination of spatially and temporally distributed ichthyoplankton sampling and Bayesian hierarchical and state-space modeling was used to partition variance and estimate abundance and mortality of larval walleye ( Sander vitreus ) in the Maumee River during 2010 and 2011. System variability and degree of sampling coverage have a direct impact on the quality of abundance estimates. Small scale factors (i.e., within site and day-to-day) accounted for the most variation in larval walleye densities, therefore sampling should concentrate on capturing these sources. Bayesian state-space modeling can improve estimates by sharing information through time, properly accounting for uncertainty, and producing probability distribution based estimates. Larval fish are highly variable and difficult to sample; however, the application of Bayesian methods during the data analysis process can lead to improved estimates of abundance and informed management actions.
Tooth crazing associated with threaded pins: a three-dimensional model.

Abstract A model for observing the three-dimensional pattern of cracking associated with placement of self-threading retentive pins was developed. Four sizes of selfthreading pins were placed in extracted posterior tooth samples. The pins were subsequently removed and the samples coated with butyl acetate lacquer except for the pin channel orifice. Samples were immersed in dye solution followed by a demineralization and dehydration process. Samples were placed in methyl salicylate until cleared. Cleared samples were examined for dye penetration into the pin channel and communication with the pulp chamber. Comparisons were made of the patterns created by the four sizes of retentive pins. Results showed that more extensive cracks occurred with the larger size pins and that crack communication with the pulp chamber occurred more frequently with the larger pins.
Optimal temperature in pancreas preservation by the two-layer cold storage method before islet isolation

COLD organ storage is based on the effect of hypothermia, which is basically used to reduce the metabolism at low temperatures. However, the low temperature itself may be deleterious to the cell membrane during organ preservation. The two-layer cold storage method (TL), which employs UW solution (UW) and perfluorochemical (PFC), has been demonstrated to be superior to simple UW storage and to be feasible for pancreas preservation before islet isolation using a canine model. It has been clarified that a pancreas graft is directly oxygenated with PFC during preservation by TL and maintains high tissue ATP level, which keeps cellular integrity. Because ATP synthesis in TL is an enzymatic reaction, it seems likely that increasing temperature makes ATP synthesis faster and decreases the damage of the cell membrane due to the low temperature during storage by TL. The aim of this study is to determine the optimal temperature for TL in pancreas preservation before islet isolation.
Is a routine chest X-ray indicated before discharge following paediatric cardiac surgery?

UNLABELLED In many paediatric cardiosurgical units, a chest X-ray is routinely performed before discharge. We sought to evaluate the clinical impact of such routine radiographs in the management of children after cardiac surgery. Of 100 consecutive children, a chest X-ray was performed in 71 prior to discharge. Of these, 38 were clinically indicated, while 33 were performed as a routine. Therapeutic changes were instituted on the basis of the X-ray in 4 patients, in all of whom the imaging had been clinically indicated. No therapeutic changes followed those radiographs performed on a routine basis. CONCLUSION Routine chest radiographs can be omitted prior to discharging patients after paediatric heart surgery.
Intrapleural fibrinolytic therapy in the management of septic pleuropneumonia in a horse

PNEUMONIA with secondary pleural infection causes considerable morbidity and mortality in horses. Intrapleural instillation of fibrinolytic agents to dissolve fibrinous adhesions is intended to improve pleural fluid drainage and reduce pleural loculations. Fibrinolytic therapy may be used
Hemolytic activity of adenylate cyclase toxin from Bordetella pertussis

Adenylate cyclase (AC) toxin fromB. pertussis enters eukaryotic cells where it produces supraphysiologie levels of cAMP. Purification of AC toxin activity [(1989) J. Biol. Chem. 264, 19279] results in increasing potency of hemolytic activity and electroelution of the 216-kDA holotoxin yields a single protein with AC enzymatic, toxin and hemolytic activities. AC toxin andE. coli hemolysin, which have DNA sequence homology [(1988) EMBO J. 7, 3997] are immunologically cross-reactive. The time courses of hemolysis elicited by the two molecules are strikingly different, however, with AC toxin eliciting cAMP accumulation with rapid onset, but hemolysis with a lag of ≥ 45 min. Finally, osmotic protection experiments indicate that the size of the putative pore produced by AC toxin is 3 5-fold smaller than that ofE. coli hemolysin.
A 24-year-old woman with bilateral pulmonary infiltrates, pericardial effusion, and bilateral pleural effusions.

A 24-year-old woman presented with a 3-week history of exertional dyspnea and dry cough. Her medical history was remarkable for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). She had no exacerbation of joint symptoms during the prior 2 years. She denied fever or other constitutional symptoms. She took ibuprofen occasionally but no other antirheumatic medications. She was a lifelong nonsmoker. Her review of systems, family, social, and exposure histories were noncontributory.
Type C RNA virus expression in systemic lupus erythematosus. New Zealand mouse model and human disease

An antigen recognized by antisera produced against p30 (core) proteins of the four chief groups of mammalian type C viruses (murine, feline, RD-114 related to endogenous primate, and infectious primate group) is located in an immune-complex pattern in some renal glomeruli of human SLE patients with lupus proliferative glomerulonephritis but is not detected in normal or pathological control human kidneys. This antigen cross-reacts with p30 interspecies determinants shared by the four chief virus groups and cross-reacts with a partially purified antigen extracted from human SLE spleen. The human SLE spleen antigen cross-reacts with p30 group antigen of RD-114 virus but not of feline or murine viruses. Some host immunoglobulins eluted from a human SLE kidney by acid-buffer show antibody-like activity against p30 group antigen of RD-114 virus but not of simian, feline, or murine viruses.
Improving platelet supply chains through collaborations between blood centers and transfusion services

BACKGROUND: Blood centers and hospital transfusion services are challenged with maintaining an adequate platelet (PLT) inventory to minimize the number of outdated units without risking a major shortage. A novel approach to inventory management was established at our institution through a collaboration between the Stanford University Medical Center (SUMC) Transfusion Service, the Stanford Blood Center (SBC), and the Department of Management Science and Engineering. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: An analysis of the supply chain performance between SBC and SUMC Transfusion Service was performed. First, the interaction between processes, such as blood collection, rotation, and inventory management, was studied. Second, changes were implemented based on the recommendations from the analysis team. Finally, a postanalysis was performed reflecting on the improvement of the operations between SUMC and SBC. RESULTS: A comprehensive data analysis of the PLT supply chain allowed the identification of three series of improvements to be implemented: 1) on SBC's PLT collection, 2) on SBC's rotation process, and 3) on the PLT inventory management policy at SUMC. A postimplementation analysis showed a reduction in the overall PLT outdate rate from 19% in the first quarter of 2006, down to 9% in the third quarter of 2008. CONCLUSION: A multidisciplinary effort among SUMC Transfusion Service, SBC, and experts in supply chain management resulted in a process improvement, which reduced the rate of PLT outdate at both SBC and SUMC Transfusion Service down to 9%, with a significant cost reduction of more than half a million dollars per year.
Effect of chronic mitral valve damage on activity of pulmonary rapidly adapting receptors in the rabbit.

The effects of acute pulmonary venous congestion on the activity of rapidly adapting receptors (RARs) were determined in intact (control and sham-operated) rabbits and in rabbits 6 and 12 weeks after surgical destruction of the mitral valve. Destruction of the mitral valve increased the mean left atrial pressure (LAP) by approximately 2·6 and 3·8 mmHg, 6 and 12 weeks after surgery, respectively. These changes were accompanied by significant increases in left ventricular weight. The effect of acute increments in LAP on RAR activity was examined against this background of chronic pulmonary venous congestion. In intact control and sham-operated animals RAR activity increased from 48·8 ± 0·9 to 83·5 ± 3·6 and 121·1 ± 4·7 action potentials min−1 when the LAP was raised by 5 and 10 mmHg, respectively, above control values. Six weeks after surgery only 40 % of RARs were activated in this way. In animals maintained for 12 weeks after surgery, RAR activity at LAPs of 6·6 ± 1·2 (control), 11·6 ± 1·2 and 16·6 ± 1·2 (mmHg) were 35·5 ± 2·3, 33·8 ± 14·4 and 34·0 ± 3·4 action potentials min−1, respectively. These changes were statistically not significant. Slowly adapting receptors (SARs) in the lung showed a small but statistically significant increase in activity when the left atrial pressure was acutely elevated in both intact and mitral valve damaged animals. It is concluded that chronic pulmonary venous congestion resulting from destruction of the mitral valve attenuates the ability of RARs to respond to acute moderate elevations of LAP.
Peripheral injections of bombesin and cholecystokinin affect dietary self-selection in rats.

Abstract Patterns of dietary self-selection were examined in adult female rats following peripheral injections of either bombesin (BBS) (6, 10, 14 and 16 μg) or cholecystokinin octapeptide (CCK-8) (0.75, 1.5, 2.25, and 3.0 μg). Animals were food deprived for 18 hours and then offered three isocaloric diets (protein, carbohydrate, and fat) following injections of peptides. Each subject received each of 4 doses of both peptides in a within-subjects design. All doses of BBS decreased total food intake and fat intake 30 minutes following injections. Also at this time period the two highest doses suppressed carbohydrate intake, while protein was unaffected. Cumulative intake at one hour revealed that total intake remained suppressed. The two highest doses continued to suppress carbohydrate intake, while only the 14 μg dose continued to suppress fat intake. Additionally protein was now significantly suppressed by all doses. The three highest doses of CCK-8 produced a decrease in total food intake and fat intake 30 minutes after injections. By one hour, only total intake remained suppressed but only with administration of the highest dose. Results are interpreted as providing support for the notion that BBS and CCK are physiological satiety signals and that they maintain unique functions in regulating food intake.
Pag, a Putative Tumor Suppressor, Interacts with the Myc Box II Domain of c-Myc and Selectively Alters Its Biological Function and Target Gene Expression

The highly conserved Myc Box II (MBII) domain of c-Myc is critically important for transformation and transcriptional regulation. A yeast two-hybrid screen identified Pag as a MBII-interacting protein. Pag, a member of the peroxiredoxin family, has been reported previously to bind to and inhibit the cytostatic properties of the c-Abl oncoprotein. We now show that Pag promotes increased cell size and confers a proapoptotic phenotype, two hallmark features of ectopic c-Myc overexpression. Pag and c-Myc also confer resistance to oxidative stress, a previously unrecognized property of the latter protein. In contrast, Pag inhibits tumorigenesis by c-Myc-overexpressing fibroblasts and causes a broad but selective loss of c-Myc target gene regulation. Pag is therefore an MBII-interacting protein that can either mimic or enhance some of the c-Myc properties while at the same inhibiting others. These features, along with the previously identified interaction with c-Abl, provide support for the idea that Pag functions as a tumor suppressor.
Intraoperative autologous blood salvage with cardiac surgery: An analysis of five years' experience in more than 3,000 patients☆

Abstract Study Objective : To analyze intraoperative autologous salvage of shed mediastinal blood and subsequent transfusion in cardiac surgery. Design : Retrospective statistical analysis. Setting : University hospital. Patients : Three thousand twenty two patients undergoing cardiac surgery from 1984 to 1988. Interventions : A review of anesthesia and transfusion records of all patients who underwent intraoperative salvage of shed blood and autologous transfusion using the Sorenson Receptal Auto Transfusion System (ATS) with saline wash prior to reinfusion in cardiac surgery. Measurements and Main Results : The salvaged blood volume ranged from 36 to 2,795 ml, with a mean of 321 ± 222 ml (SD). Eighteen percent of patients did not receive any homologous blood products during their hospitalization. Patients who received only salvaged autologous transfusion were younger, had higher preoperative hemoglobin and hematocrit values, had a larger body surface area, and had shorter surgeries compared with patients who received only homologous blood or both autologous and homologous blood. More blood products were given to patients who received salvaged autologous blood compared with those who did not. Patients who underwent normovolemic hemodilution prior to extracorporeal circulation with subsequent reinfusion received significantly fewer blood products. Ten preoperative and, four intraoperative variables significantly influenced the salvaged volume. Previous cardiac surgery was the most significant preoperative variable, and repair of ventricular septal defect produced by myocardial ischemia was the most significant intraoperative variable. Conclusion : Considering the average salvaged volume and its current autologous transfusion-related expense, autologous blood salvage is potentially an economic benefit. Perioperative blood conservation requires a considerable commitment from surgeons, anesthesiologists, perfusionists, and intensive care physicians to be effective.
The Modern Phillips Curve Revisited

The modern Phillips curve is about the relationship between the average rates of inflation and unemployment. We will provide additional empirical evidence in the US economy from 1948:01 to 2013:03 that helps demonstrate why such a relationship has been built on a wrong methodology, as revealed in Ma [1]. An erroneous approach can lead to a misunderstanding of business cycles and a wrongful implementation of monetary policy. In particular, the way how the two rates may evolve is now at a critical moment for the Fed to decide if an exit from its quantitative easing should be initiated.
Atomic Variational Calculations: Hydrogen to Boron

Relatively simple quantum mechanical calculations are described for atoms and ions up to boron. The calculations employ scaled hydrogenic orbitals and can be completed with or without the aid of a computer. Given the simplicity of the trial wave functions the agreement with experiment is satisfactory.
Changes in gastric pressure and volume during mechanical in-exsufflation.

Background/purpose A mechanical insufflator-exsufflator (MI-E) is used to replicate spontaneous cough in weak or neurologically impaired patients. Its use is often withheld after abdominal surgery because of concerns for potential wound dehiscence from abdominal distension or development of excessive abdominal positive pressure. We hypothesized that gastric pressure during MI-E use would not exceed usual pressures generated during a spontaneous cough. Methods Thirteen subjects 0.8-23.1 years (mean 10.5 years) with neuromuscular weakness, pre-existing gastrostomy tube, and established MI-E routine were studied. A pressure transducer through the gastrostomy tube measured gastric pressure (Pgas) during MI-E treatment. Chest and abdominal volume change was assessed by respiratory inductance plethysmography. In three subjects, the same measurements were made during spontaneous cough. Results The maximum Pgas was 24 cm with applied pressures of 20-40 cm. In the three subjects able to cough, the maximum Pgas achieved during the spontaneous maneuver was 25 cm, a value higher than they achieved with MI-E treatment. Conclusion MI-E resulted in less positive abdominal pressure than has been described in healthy subjects during spontaneous coughing. As such, use of an MI-E device should be considered safe to use in the post-operative period following abdominal surgery in patients with neuromuscular weakness.
THE IMPORTANCE OF LARGE ANIMAL MODELS FOR TRANSLATIONAL RESEARCH IN BONE TISSUE ENGINEERING

The translation of bone tissue engineering (BTE) research to clinical use has been absymal1. Outside of bone void filler biomaterials, only Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2 (BMP2) has made significant inroads to clinical practice, and even BMP2 use has been associated with significant complications including death, dysphagia, and ectopic bone formation. The dearth of BTE products can be attributed to two main causes: (1) the need to develop BTE systems, that successfully integrate scaffolds, growth factors like BMP2 and cells and (2) the need to adapt and implement such systems for a wide variety of clinical indications in CranioMaxilloFacial (CMF), Spine and Orthopedic Surgery. Of course, to fully develop BTE systems (Issue 1) and adapt them to realistic clinical indications, we must be able to test such systems in bone defects that are as close to the human situation as possible. Thus, the use of domestic large animals for bone tissue engineering is critical, as these animals provide challenges in both defect volume and functional loading that can mimic the human situation. In addition, FDA approval for BTE products either through a 510K or IDE/IND/PMA pathway requires the use of a large pre-clinical animal model. However, despite this need, only approximately 60 large animal bone tissue-engineering studies have been published in the past 10 years. Furthermore, NIH has funded only 8% of these studies, and of the 17 bone tissue engineering studies supported by NIH in 2010, only three utilized a large animal model, and none of these used an animal larger than a rabbit. Clearly, increased translation and regulatory approval of BTE therapies will require greater testing in large animal models. We will discuss the current dearth of relevant pre-clinical studies in BTE, and present our work addressing these issues by developing BTE systems (integrated scaffold, growth factor and stem-cell constructs) and testing these systems for realistic clinical applications using the Yorkshire and other swine species as a large pre-clinical animal model. We will detail our work in developing BTE systems for CMF reconstruction and spine fusion in the swine model. Reference Hollister S. J. and Murphy W. L. Scaffold translation: barriers between concept and clinic. Tissue Eng. B. (in press).
Effects of Superovulation on Ovarian Δ5-3β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Activity in Rats of Different Ages

Administration of gonadotrophic hormones to rats, utilizing a procedure that produces superovulation, resulted, as expected, in increases in ovarian Δ5-3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity. However, differences in the magnitude of the response were observed depending upon the ages of the rats used. The maximum degree of response was seen in immature rats (22–43 days of age when treatment was initiated). There is a distinct diminution of responsiveness in animals 3–4 months of age. Mature animals (over 5 months of age) responded, but to higher doses, and less consistently, than immature rats. Moreover, increases in enzymic activity generally paralleled increases in ovarian weight, while the specific activity of the enzyme remained, as a rule, unchanged. The magnitude of the increase appeared to parallel the increased volume of luteal tissue. (Endocrinology 76: 382, 1965)
Field test results of compound specific isotope analyzer based on quantum cascade lasers and hollow waveguide

The first of its kind Gas Chromatograph Infra Red Isotope Ratio (GC-IR2) instruments have been deployed to the field to help the identification of sweet spot during the shale gas exploration. The onsite measurement capability of the GC-IR2 along with its accuracy and speed helped the discovery of the fast dynamics of gas release from shale cuttings. The half life of the isotope change for methane, ethane and propane released from shale cuttings is closely related to the porosity and permeability of the specific shale reservoir, and could be as short as a one hour to a couple of days. Initial δ^(13)C values for methane could be extremely fractionated toward heavy ^(13)C species that values in the -20~<-10 per mil, which belong to inorganic methane could be measured.
Analysis of variance of one-, two-, and three-treatment designs for a PDP-8

Operating instructions for a series of analysis of variance programs for one-, two-, and three-treatment experimental designs is described. The emphasis is on versatility, speed, accuracy, and sufficiency of output. The on-line aspect of FOCAL allows extensive transformations of raw data. Procedures and terminology conform to Kirk (1968) to provide information for pooling error terms for various models, mean comparisons, and trends analysis. Patches are given for data tape input.
Heat Capacity Study of Isotactic Polystyrene: Dual Reversible Crystal Melting and Relaxation of Rigid Amorphous Fraction

Isotactic polystyrene (iPS) is demonstrated to have unique thermal behavior, showing dual reversible crystal melting and irreversible enthalpic relaxation of its rigid amorphous fraction (RAF). Quasi-isothermal temperature-modulated differential scanning calorimetry (TMDSC) and standard DSC were used to study the heat capacity of cold-crystallized iPS. IPS shows two or three endotherms depending upon cold crystallization temperature, Tc. Crystal melting causes the higher temperature endotherm(s), and under quasi-isothermal conditions, we report for the first time observation of dual locally reversible melting endotherms. Quasi-isothermal TMDSC shows that the RAF is established at the crystallization temperature in iPS. Furthermore, we show that the lowest temperature endothermic peak, called the annealing peak, represents the transition of the RAF. For cold-crystallized iPS the annealing peak is an irreversible, enthalpy-involved relaxation of RAF, which transforms solidlike RAF into liquidlike mobile amo...
Quality control of human tissues-experience from the Indiana University Cancer Center-Lilly Research Labs human tissue bank

The success of molecular research and its applications in both the clinical and basic research arenas is strongly dependent on the collection, handling, storage, and quality control of fresh human tissue samples. This tissue bank was set up to bank fresh surgically obtained human tissue using a Clinical Annotated Tissue Database (CATD) in order to capture the associated patient clinical data and demographics using a one way patient encryption scheme to protect patient identification. In this study, we determined that high quality of tissue samples is imperative for both genomic and proteomic molecular research. This paper also contains a brief compilation of the literature involved in the patient ethics, patient informed consent, patient de-identification, tissue collection, processing, and storage as well as basic molecular research generated from the tissue bank using good clinical practices. The current applicable rules, regulations, and guidelines for handling human tissues are briefly discussed. More than 6,610 cancer patients have been consented (97% of those that were contacted by the consenter) and 16,800 tissue specimens have been banked from these patients in 9 years. All samples collected in the bank were QC'd by a pathologist. Approximately 1,550 tissue samples have been requested for use in basic, clinical, and/or biomarker cancer research studies. Each tissue aliquot removed from the bank for a research study were evaluated by a second H&E, if the samples passed the QC, they were submitted for genomic and proteomic molecular analysis/study. Approximately 75% of samples evaluated were of high histologic quality and used for research studies. Since 2003, we changed the patient informed consent to allow the tissue bank to gather more patient clinical follow-up information. Ninety two percent of the patients (1,865 patients) signed the new informed consent form and agreed to be re-contacted for follow-up information on their disease state. In addition, eighty five percent of patients (1,584) agreed to be re-contacted to provide a biological fluid sample to be used for biomarker research.
Recursive integration methodologies with statistical applications

This paper shows how recursive integration methodologies can be used to evaluate high-dimensional integral expressions. This has applications to many areas of statistical inference where probability calculations and critical point evaluations often require such high-dimensional integral evaluations. Recursive integration can allow an integral expression of a given dimension to be evaluated by a series of calculations of a smaller dimension. This significantly reduces the computation time. The application of the recursive integration methodology is illustrated with several examples.
Mapping Protein–Protein Interactions Using Yeast Two-Hybrid Assays

Yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) screens are an efficient system for mapping protein-protein interactions and whole interactomes. The screens can be performed using random libraries or collections of defined open reading frames (ORFs) called ORFeomes. This protocol describes both library and array-based Y2H screening, with an emphasis on array-based assays. Array-based Y2H is commonly used to test a number of "prey" proteins for interactions with a single "bait" (target) protein or pool of proteins. The advantage of this approach is the direct identification of interacting protein pairs without further downstream experiments: The identity of the preys is known and does not require further confirmation. In contrast, constructing and screening a random prey library requires identification of individual prey clones and systematic retesting. Retesting is typically performed in an array format.
An automatable format for accurate immunohematology testing by flow cytometry.

BACKGROUND: Current immunohematology testing methods have limitations including cost, throughput, and adaptability to automation. Furthermore, current automated and semiautomated workstations cannot accommodate many other tests relevant to blood transfusion. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Authentic clinical samples from hospitalized patients were tested for ABO group, D type, and presence of RBC alloantibodies by column agglutination technology (CAT), standard tube methods, and a recently developed flow cytometry (FC) technique. Included were challenging samples with rouleaux, autoantibodies, mixed-field reactions, and weak antibodies. Antibody staining of RBCs for FC was initially performed in test tubes and subsequently in microtiter filter plates interfaced with a vacuum manifold. RESULTS: When antibody staining was performed in tubes, FC testing determined the correct ABO group and D type for 99.1 percent of 222 clinical samples, as compared to accuracies of 91.9 percent for CAT and 95.0 percent for standard tube testing. FC testing also detected 99.5 percent of clinically relevant RBC alloantibodies in 239 patient samples, as compared to 98.9 percent for CAT and 94.7 percent for LISS-IAT. Using the FC filter plate technique, 104 of 109 samples (95.4%) were correctly typed for ABO and D (the remaining five samples were read as “no type determined” due to RBC and serum testing discrepancies), and RBC alloantibodies of the IgG and IgM classes were correctly identified in 98.3 percent of samples. CONCLUSIONS: Optimized FC testing methods that are comparable in accuracy to standard CAT and tube methods are described. When used with filter plates, this methodology should allow rapid and cost-effective immunohematology testing of both patient and donor samples in an automated workstation format. The same workstation should support automation of other pretransfusion assays that can be analyzed by FC.
Sexually Dichromatic Shank Melanization Associated with the Birchen (Er) Allele

Abstract Sexually dichromatic variation in shank melanization, similar to that described in Barred Plymouth Rock chicks, was observed in the absence of sex-linked barring (B) in black-down birchen (ER) chicks. The shanks of male chicks are uniformly pigmented. The female chicks have more darkly pigmented shanks, and pigmentation is frequently restricted in the distal portion of the shank and toes. Among chicks definitely demonstrating the male or female phenotype, 80.2% were accurately sexed. An intermediate shank type was observed in 35.1% of the total number of chicks, and these were sexed with 55.9% accuracy. A total of 71.7% of the birchen (ER) chicks were accurately sexed on the basis of shank color alone. This accuracy in sexing is similar to that observed in Barred Plymouth Rock chicks.
Morphology and phase controlled cobalt nanostructures in magnetic polypropylene nanocomposites: the role of alkyl chain-length in maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene

A novel function of maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (PP) with different backbone chain-lengths was demonstrated, i.e., in controlling the cobalt morphologies (dispersed polyhedral vs. assembled chain nanostructure), crystalline structures (e- vs. β-phase), and magnetic property (242 vs. 808 Oe) in the synthesized magnetic PP nanocomposites.
Stimulus modality and verbal learning performance in normal aging.

The present study investigated the effects of modality presentation on the verbal learning performance of 26 older adults and 26 younger cohorts. A multitrial free-recall paradigm was implemented incorporating three modalities: Auditory, Visual, and simultaneous Auditory plus Visual. Older subjects learned fewer words than younger subjects but their rate of learning was similar to that of the younger group. The visual presentation of objects (with or without the simultaneous auditory presentation of names) resulted in better learning, recall, and retrieval of information than the auditory presentation alone.
Active matrix metalloproteinase 9 expression is associated with primary glioblastoma subtype.

Purpose: Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is an aggressive cancer characterized by extensive brain invasion. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 plays a major role in this process. GBMs can be divided into two subtypes based on distinct clinical and molecular features. Primary GBMs arise de novo and frequently overexpress the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and its ligand-independent variant, EGFR variant III (EGFRvIII); secondary GBMs progress from a lower grade glioma and commonly harbor p53 mutations. Because EGFR signaling promotes MMP-9 expression and activation in other cancer cell types, we analyzed whether MMP-9 was associated with primary GBM subtype. Experimental Design: Autopsies were performed on 20 GBM patients, and MMP expression was assessed by gelatin zymography in the tumor and the adjacent normal brain. EGFR, EGFRvIII, p53, and activated mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase were assessed by immunohistochemistry, and associations between molecular phenotype and MMP-9 expression were analyzed. Results: Latent MMP-9 was detected in 90% of tumors, and active MMP-9 was found in 50% of tumors. MMP-9 was not detected in any of the normal brain samples ( P P = 0.027). Active MMP-9 was observed in 73% of EGFR-overexpressing/wild-type p53-staining tumors but in only 20% of EGFR-negative/aberrant p53-staining tumors ( P = 0.072). Active MMP-9 expression was even more strongly correlated with EGFRvIII expression, occurring in 83% of the EGFRvIII-immunopositive tumors but in none of the EGFRvIII-negative tumors ( P = 0.0004). Extracellular signal-regulated kinase activation was also strongly correlated with EGFRvIII expression ( P P = 0.003). Conclusions: These results identify a novel association between MMP-9 activation and primary GBM subtype and suggest that primary GBM patients, especially those whose tumors express EGFRvIII, may benefit from anti-MMP therapy.
A new algorithm for frequency estimation and disturbance cancellation inspired from induction machine theory

The paper presents a new frequency estimation algorithm based on the model of a two-phase induction motor. Averaging theory is used to show that, for a small adaptation gain and positive initial conditions, the frequency estimator is globally stable. Local exponential convergence is obtained near the nominal frequency. Combined with a gradient-based adaptive algorithm for disturbance rejection, the frequency estimator rejects sinusoidal disturbances of unknown frequencies. Averaging theory is used to show global convergence of the combined algorithm. Active noise control experiments validate the results of the analysis, and show that the algorithm successfully rejects disturbances of unknown frequency, as well as with abrupt and slow frequency variations.
Data mining in remotely sensed images: a general model and an application

Describes a general data mining model for investigating remotely sensed imagery data. The authors use data mining methodologies to automatically identify patterns (or segmentation classes) and their respective attributes within the image, thus enabling a complete and meaningful description of all pixels. The Data Investigation Model for Unsupervised Segmentation (DIMUS) consists of five modules: inspector, clues generator, classifier, justifier, and mapper. Within the framework of this model, various data mining issues, such as data transformation and selection, information description, determination of segmentation classes, knowledge verification and presentation, are addressed. The authors have applied the model and implemented a fully automated technique that mines remotely sensed images to learn significant classes or patterns through unsupervised clustering. The authors have tested successfully the technique on a variety of imagery domains.
Teachers' perceptions of the barriers to technology integration and practices with technology under situated professional development

This case study examines 18 elementary school teachers' perceptions of the barriers to technology integration (access, vision, professional development, time, and beliefs) and instructional practices with technology after two years of situated professional development. Months after transitioning from mentoring to teacher-led communities of practice, teachers continued to report positive perceptions of several barriers and were observed engaging in desirable instructional practices. Interviews suggest that the situated professional development activities helped create an environment that supported teachers' decisions to integrate technology. Implications for teacher professional development and technology integration are discussed in conjunction with the strengths and limitations of the study.
Effects and Interactions of Stocking Density and Added Substrate on Production and Population Structure of Freshwater Prawns Macrobrachiurn rosenbergii

The effects and interactions of added artificial substrate with different stocking densities of prawns were evaluated. Juvenile prawns (0.2 ± 0.1 g) were stocked into 12 0.04-ha ponds at 60,000ha and 120,000/ha with and without substrate. Added substrate consisted of horizontal plastic mesh and strips of “oyster netting” sutlicient to increase available surface area 80%. There were no statistically significant (P > 0.05) interactions between stocking density and presence of added substrate, allowing these main effects to be compared separately. Increasing stocking density produced a significant increase (P 20 g, -27%; > 30 g, -56%). Added substrate also produced a significant increase (P 20 g, 25%; >30 g, 19%). Feed conversion ratios were significantly decreased (P 0.05) on numbers of reproductive (RF) and virgin (VF) female morphotypes. Increased stocking density also produced a significant decrease (P 0.05) on the number or size of different morphotypes. The mathematical relationship between available surface area and average prawn size should be determined to produce recommended inclusion rates for added substrate based on desired levels of total production, stocking rates, and optimum market sizes.
A prospective cost analysis of laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Background In order to improve the value of laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), we completed a prospective micro-cost analysis at a large, multispecialty referral hospital. Methods After a line-item cost database had been established, the following cost data were retrieved over a 1-year period (May 1993 through May 1994): operating room (OR), radiology, pharmacy, anesthesia supplies, recovery room, and hospital room. OR cost data was further divided into costs for room-staff, room setup, radiology, plus disposable and nondisposable equipment. Sixty uncomplicated LC cases were collected (30 cases each for 2 surgeons to examine the surgeon variable). Results Sixty percent of the hospital costs occurred in the OR. Disposable laparoscopic equipment accounted for 17% of the total hospital costs and 28% of the OR costs. Staff charges in the OR (cost estimated by the hospital using minutes in the LC room) represented 24% and 41%, respectively, of the above costs to the hospital. Conclusions The areas in which hospitals and surgeons can improve the surgical value package (ie, decrease costs while maintaining quality) are in disposable equipment and efficient minimization of in-the-room time.
Do verb bias effects on sentence production reflect sensitivity to comprehension or production factors

Speakers should be motivated to produce easy-to-understand sentences, but they must successfully say sentences that are harder to produce. Four experiments assessed how verb bias influences the men...
Comparative study of thickness dependence of critical current density of YBa2Cu3O7-δ on (100) SrTiO3 and on rolling-assisted biaxially textured substrates

We investigated the dependence of critical current density (Jc) on thickness of Yba2Cu3O7−δ (YBCO) films grown by pulsed laser deposition on (100) SrTiO3 (STO) and on rolling-assisted biaxially textured substrates (RABiTS). The thickness of YBCO films varied from 0.19 to 3 μm. The highest Jcs of 5.3 and 2.6 MA/cm2 at 77 K, self-field were obtained for 0.19-μm YBCO films on STO and RABiTS, respectively. Jc was found to decrease exponentially with YBCO thickness on both substrates. However, the results suggest different mechanisms are responsible for the Jc reduction in the two cases. On STO, growth of a-axis grains within c-axis films and broadening of the in-plane texture were observed in thick films. On RABiTS, degradation in cube texture as well as development of a porous surface morphology were found to correlate with film thickness.
Nitrous Acid Reactivation of Ultraviolet-Irradiated Transforming DNA from Hemophilus influenzae

Partial recovery of ultraviolet-damaged denatured or native transforming DNA from Hemophilus influenzae, has been obtained by exposing the irradiated DNA in the denatured form to nitrous acid. Some factors that affect this recovery are described. An erythromycin marker (E20) was not reactivated. The UV damage reactivable by nitrous acid is different from that repaired by the photoreactivating enzyme from bakers' yeast. The pretreatment with nitrous acid affords a slight protection for denatured C25 DNA and Sm250 DNA against ultraviolet irradiation, but this pretreatment sensitized the E20 DNA to this irradiation.
Solution structure of the variant-3 neurotoxin from Centruroides sculpturatus Ewing

The solution structure of the CsE-v3 neurotoxin from the venom of the North American scorpion Centruroides sculpturatus Ewing (CsE) has been determined by a hybrid refinement procedure that employed distance geometry and dynamical simulated annealing. Distance constraints deduced from the nuclear Overhauser effect spectroscopy data and torsion angle constraints deduced from the vicinal coupling constant data were used in the refinement procedure. A family of simulated annealing structures that showed no constraint violations was generated. The energy-minimized average structure exhibited root-mean-square deviations of 0.121 nm for the backbone and 0.182 nm for all atoms, with respect to this family. These studies confirm the previously qualitative NMR findings about the secondary structural features, viz. the presence of a short α-helix composed of residues 23–31 and an antiparallel β-sheet composed of the strands of residues 1–5, 45–50 and 36–42. A cluster of aromatic ring systems is located on one side of the protein. The solution and crystal structures have similar overall features, but show some minor differences.