cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Chapter 11 Regulation of Actin and Myosin II Dynamics in Living Cells

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the regulation of the structure and dynamics of actin-based cytoskeleton. Actin, myosins, and associated proteins exhibit complex and varied behavior in muscle and nonmuscle cells alike: assembling and disassembling and forming fibers, bundles, and isotropic gel networks. In turn, the resulting actin-based structures display yet another level of behavior, as they move about the cell. The chapter discusses quiescent fibroblasts, as a model system, the multimode approach, actomyosin dynamics in serum-starved 3T3 fibroblasts, regulation of stress fiber contraction, stress fiber movement and cell motility, and some future prospects. Recent advances allow viewing the dynamic behavior of multiple intracellular variables simultaneously or in very rapid succession. Multimode microscopy is capable of revealing not only the precise dynamics of important structural elements, but also the order of these movements relative to that of other dynamic macromolecules. Photodetectors, radio imaging, and automated or semi-automated image analysis make precise, quantitative answers possible. Such quantitation seems crucial, given the complex and usually subtle interconnections among regulatory pathways. When viewed over long time periods, stress fibers can be very dynamic. In serum-starved Swiss 3T3 fibro-blasts, a large proportion of the stress fibers, particularly those lying parallel to the cells distal margins, are in continuous motion. They move centripetally, that is, from the cell periphery toward the nucleus, until they reach the perinuclear cytoplasm, where they disappear. Microinjection studies offer the advantage that they directly and immediately alter cellular concentration of a given component, albeit at the expense of introducing it in a “less natural” state.
Building Better Systems for Learning and Training: Bringing the Entertainment Industry and Simulation Technology Together

In 1999, at the University of Southern California the Institute for Creative Technologies (ICT) was established. The ICT was intended to explore a question: what would happen if researchers who understood the technology of simulation and virtual reality worked in close collaboration with people from the entertainment industry who understood how to create compelling stories and engaging characters? What synergies would emerge? Would it be possible to create much more immersive simulation systems for training and learning? In the brief period since the opening of the ICT, we are starting to see the answers to these questions and understand the promise of this approach. In this keynote talk, I will describe some of the insights that have emerged from this collaboration, the major research efforts we have undertaken in areas such as graphics, artificial intelligence and sound, and the integrating virtual reality applications we have produced in areas such as training and leadership development.
Covariance Adjustment for Batch Effect in Gene Expression Data

Batch bias has been found in many microarray gene expression studies that involve multiple batches of samples. A serious batch effect can alter not only the distribution of individual genes but also the inter-gene relationships. Even though some efforts have been made to remove such bias, there has been relatively less development on a multivariate approach, mainly because of the analytical difficulty due to the high-dimensional nature of gene expression data. We propose a multivariate batch adjustment method that effectively eliminates inter-gene batch effects. The proposed method utilizes high-dimensional sparse covariance estimation based on a factor model and a hard thresholding. Another important aspect of the proposed method is that if it is known that one of the batches is produced in a superior condition, the other batches can be adjusted so that they resemble the target batch. We study high-dimensional asymptotic properties of the proposed estimator and compare the performance of the proposed method with some popular existing methods with simulated data and gene expression data sets.
Identification of Klebsiella pneumoniae virulence determinants using an intranasal infection model

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a Gram-negative enterobacterium that has historically been, and currently remains, a significant cause of human disease. It is a frequent cause of urinary tract infections and pneumonia, and subsequent systemic infections can have mortality rates as high as 60%. Despite its clinical significance, few virulence factors of K. pneumoniae have been identified or characterized. In this study we present a mouse model of acute K. pneumoniae respiratory infection using an intranasal inoculation method, and examine the progression of both pulmonary and systemic disease. Wild-type infection recapitulates many aspects of clinical disease, including significant bacterial growth in both the trachea and lungs, an inflammatory immune response characterized by dramatic neutrophil influx, and a steady progression to systemic disease with ensuing mortality. These observations are contrasted with an infection by an isogenic capsule-deficient strain that shows an inability to cause disease in either pulmonary or systemic tissues. The consistency and clinical accuracy of the intranasal mouse model proved to be a useful tool as we conducted a genetic screen to identify novel virulence factors of K. pneumoniae. A total of 4800 independent insertional mutants were evaluated using a signature-tagged mutagenesis protocol. A total of 106 independent mutants failed to be recovered from either the lungs or spleens of infected mice. Small scale independent infections proved to be helpful as a secondary screening method, as opposed to the more traditional competitive index assay. Those mutants showing verified attenuation contained insertions in loci with a variety of putative functions, including a large number of hypothetical open reading frames. Subsequent experiments support the premise that the central mechanism of K. pneumoniae pathogenesis is the production of a polysaccharide-rich cell surface that provides protection from the inflammatory response.
Cultural Dialectics of Knowledge and Desire

Cultural Dialectics of Knowledge and Desire. Charles Nuckolls. Madison: University of Wisconsin Press, 1996. 306 pp.
An Event‐Related Potential (ERP) Investigation of Filler‐Gap Processing in Native and Second Language Speakers

The current study employed a neuro-imaging technique, Event-Related Potentials (ERP), to investigate real-time processing of sentences containing filler-gap dependencies by late-learning speakers of English as a second language (L2) with a Chinese native language background. An individual differences approach was also taken to examine the role of proficiency and working memory. Materials included a plausibility manipulation to look at whether a plausibility effect, the N400 effect, was found at the point of resolution, the verb, in filler-gap dependencies. The results suggest that, although the L2 speakers as a group are not sensitive to plausibility variations, correlational analysis indicates that more proficient L2 speakers, like the first-language (L1) speakers, are sensitive to plausibility variations while processing filler-gap sentences. Working memory was not found to be associated with more native-like processing of these constructions.
Well-differentiated adenocarcinoma of endometrium with simple karyotypic changes: A case report

Chromosome analysis of a well-differentiated adenocarcinoma of the endometrium revealed an abnormal karyotype 48,XX,+i(1q)+10 in all metaphases examined. Abnormalities of chromosomes #1 and #10 may be important in endometrial carcinoma and should be carefully evaluated in cases with more complex karyotypes.
Scenario-Based Learning and Multimedia in Improving Engineering Education

Use of multimedia and new technologies has become very common in education and the corporate training industry. Unlike text-on-the-screen (page-turner) instructions, multimedia based interactions involve audio, video, animation and rich graphics. These attributes are very appealing to learners, and have become the predominant approach to deliver self-paced learning material. The use of multimedia and computer-based training has improved web-based as well as computer-based training and instructional delivery tremendously. However, providing an authentic learning experience requires much more than multimedia. It requires an active learning approach built on sound principles of instructional design. Scenario Based Learning (SBL) is an effective pedagogical approach which utilizes new technology and provides an excellent framework for active learning. This paper presents a SBL approach and its application to teach engineering. This approach will engage learners, increase their interest, improve knowledge retention, and facilitate understanding of the physical meaning behind abstract concepts.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Strike-slip faulting of ridged plains near Valles Marineris, Mars

This paper identifies and documents several well-preserved examples of Martian strike-slip faults and examines their relationships to wrinkle-ridges. The strike-slip faulting predates or overlaps periods of wrinkle-ridge growth southeast of Valles Marineris, and some wrinkle ridges may have nucleated and grown as a result of strike-slip displacements along the echelon fault arrays. Lateral displacements of several km inferred along these arrays may be related to tectonism in Tharsis.
Patient reported problems and adherence to glaucoma medications in the United States and India

Purpose: The purpose of this research was to examine patient reported adherence and problems in using glaucoma medications. Methods: In the United States, 324 patients on adjunctive therapy who were seen at four geographically distinct ophthalmology practices participated. In India, 243 patients seen at a glaucoma clinic in an eye hospital in Southern India participated. All patients were asked to complete a survey before their visits with their ophthalmologists. Results: The U.S. sample ranged in age from 20 to 91 (mean age 68 years) and was 48% female. The India sample ranged in age from 19 to 90 (mean 63 years) and was 36% female. Sixty-one percent of the U.S. sample and 42% of the India sample reported one or more problems in using their glaucoma medications. Fourteen percent of the U.S. sample reported being less than 100% adherent in taking their glaucoma medications in the past week. Patients who had difficulty remembering to take their glaucoma medications and those who reported other problems or concerns were significantly more likely to report being less adherent. Six percent of the India sample reported being less than 100% adherent in the past week. Patients who reported difficulty squeezing the bottle and those who reported difficulty opening the bottle were significantly more likely to reported being less adherent. Conclusions: Patients in the U.S. and India reported many problems in using their glaucoma medications and in each country specific types of problems were related to patient non-adherence.
Effect of Paper Color and Question Order on Exam Performance

To deter cheating, teachers commonly use exams printed on differently colored paper or with varied question orders. Previous studies, however, reported that paper color and question order affect exam performance and suggested that teachers should adjust students' scores accordingly and discontinue the use of alternate exam forms. We conducted 2 experiments testing the effects of paper color and question order on exam performance. Students performed worse on exams printed on primary blue paper, but pastel colors had no effect. We found no effect of exam question order (sequential vs. random). We conclude that colored paper or differently ordered questions do not affect exam performance.
Resonance-stabilized phenylazo-ene-phenylimine cations of cyclobutanetetraone derivatives

Cyclobutenedione phenylazo-phenylamines were found to exhibit bathochromic shifts in acidic media and hypsochromic shifts in basic media, like phenylazo-phenylhydrazones. The bathochromic shifts are due to the formation of resonance-stabilized cations and the hypsochromic shifts to enolization. The phenylazo-phenylamines and their cations and anions have been studied by NMR spectroscopy.
Thermoelectric behavior of carbon–cement composites

Carbon-cement composites refer to cement-matrix composites that contain carbon (e.g., carbon fibers). Carbon in a discontinuous form is usually used and is the form addressed in this paper, because this form can be added to the cement mix in the mixer (i.e., it ca be used as an admixture). In contrast, carbon in continuous form cannot be used as an admixture. Mixing is the most convenient way of incorporating any ingredient in a cement-based material.
BOOKS, PRINTS, AND TRAVEL: READING IN THE GAPS OF THE ORIENTALIST ARCHIVE

From about 1780 a thriving publishing industry for travel accounts developed in France, but its rich visual component has not been closely analysed. Taking Auguste de Forbin's Voyage dans le Levant and Marie-Gabriel de Choiseul-Gouffier's Voyage pittoresque de la Grece as paradigmatic examples, I reconsider illustrated travel books in light of new theories of reading generated by historians of the book. The multifarious nature of these books – juggling word and image, and coordinating the work of a large number of writers, researchers, artists and print-makers – provides a radically alternative model for interpreting travel representation in the age of expansion.
Learning, Recognizing, And Predicting Multiple Groupings Of Patterned Data Using A Masking Field Neural Architecture

One of the fundamental problem areas in perception, cognition, and artificial intelligence concerns the characterization of the functional units into which perceptual and cognitive mechanisms group the patterned information that they process. A core issue concerns the context-sensitivity of these functional units, or the manner in which a grouping into functional units can depend upon the spatiotemporal patterning of all the signals being processed. Another core issue concerns the adaptive tuning of recognition mechanisms, and the manner in which such tuning can alter the groupings which emerge within a context containing familiar elements. Adaptive tuning of recognition processes is one of the mechanisms whereby representations become compressed, chunked, or unitized into coherent recognition codes through experience.
Equable Climate Dynamics

Abstract As the record of past climate becomes clearer, the existence of regimes has emerged as a primary characteristic of the climate system. Present climate is now known to represent one regime among others including glacial climates such as characterized recent intervals of the Pleistocene and the much warmer equable climates of the Eocene and Cretaceous. An important test of climate theory is the ability to explain the record of climate change in terms of atmosphere-ocean dynamics, and the response of the dynamics to internal and external changes. The hypothesis is advanced that variation in the strength and extent of the symmetric circulation is an important mechanism mediating climate change. Using a simplified model we explore dynamical variables that influence the symmetric circulation and the physical processes that may have modified these dynamical variables to maintain the warm equable climates.
Where in the genome are we? A cautionary tale of database use in genomics research.

With the advent of high throughput data genomic technologies the volume of available data is now staggering. In addition databases that provide resources to annotate, translate and connect biological data have grown exponentially in content and use. The availability of such data emphasizes the importance of bioinformatics and computational biology in genomics research and has led to the development of thousands of tools to integrate and utilize these resources. When utilizing such resources, the principles of reproducible research are often overlooked. In this manuscript we provide selected case studies illustrating issues that may arise while working with genes and genetic polymorphisms. These case studies illustrate potential sources of error which can be introduced if the practices of reproducible research are not employed and non-concurrent databases are used. We also show examples of a lack of transparency when these databases are concerned when using popular bioinformatics tools. These examples highlight that resources are constantly evolving, and in order to provide reproducible results, research should be aware of and connected to the correct release of the data, particularly when implementing computational tools.
Statistical properties of a variance components method for quantitative trait linkage analysis in nuclear families and extended pedigrees

We investigated the statistical properties of a variance components method for quantitative trait linkage analysis using nuclear families and extended pedigrees. © 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The absence of unique kainic acid-like molecules in urine, serum, and CSF from Huntington's disease patients

By means of a sensitive competition assay, serum, urine, and CSF from patients with Huntington's disease (HD) and controls were tested for the presence of molecules capable of displacing radioactive kainic acid (KA) from rat brain receptors. No difference was found between HD and control samples. It is unlikely that systemic production of an endogenous toxin structurally related to KA occurs in HD.
Aspects of ecology of the threatened ringed sawback turtle, Graptemys oculifera

The ringed sawback turtle, Graptemys oculifem, is endemic to the Pearl River system of Louisiana and Mississippi in southern USA. In 1986 the species was placed on the U.S. Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Species with status designation of 'threatened'. Existing museum specimens were examined to determine geographic distribution, food, growth and reproduction. Caddisflies, dipteran flies, mayflies, beetles and plant material were the most important food. Many stomachs contained small pieces of wood, suggesting that fallen tree trunks were a "grazing" substrate. Males ranged from 3.2-8.6 cm plastron length, and attained sexual maturity during the third or fourth year at lengths of about 6.0-7.0 cm. Adult males experienced recrudescence of testes, with maximum testis lengths during August and September indicating the probable time of spermatogenesis. Females ranged from 3.3-18.9 cm plastron length, and appeared to attain sexual maturity during the seventh or eighth year at lengths greater than 10.0 cm. The data suggested that ovulation occurs from May through July, nesting during June and ,July, and hatching at least during August. Clutch size appeared to be just two or three eggs.
The Troublesome Legacy of Brown v. Board of Education

Purpose: This article reflects on the 60th anniversary of the Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court decision while discussing the significant lessons learned from this and subsequent court decisions. Argument: In this article, we posit that a fundamentally different conversation surrounding the legacy of Brown is needed if we are to critically understand the past, present, and future of race relations as a backdrop to issues of segregated schooling in this country. Implications: The troublesome legacy of Brown provides a unique opportunity to interrogate why we, as a country, continue to have faith in this particular court decision as a remedy for racial inequality. We invite readers to symbolically “let go” of Brown in order to imagine new possibilities for racial justice, educational opportunity, and social reform.
The return to sleep.

Abstract Six young adult subjects were awakened five to eight times per night from stage 2 sleep in a standardized manner for a series of at least 11 non-consecutive nights. After adaptation to the procedure, subjects received placebo, pentobarbital, or flurazepam on two random nights and caffeine on one night. The latency of the return to sleep after each awakening was measured. On placebo nights a characteristic U-shaped curve of latency as a function of time of night was found. Latencies were long shortly after sleep onset but decreased rapidly to about 50 sec before beginning an approximately linear logarithmic increase throughout the rest of the night. The drugs characteristically altered this time course. Pentobarbital decreased lattencies in the first half of the night. Flurazepam decreased latencies throughout the night. Caffeine increased latencies during the first half of the night.
Flow dynamics of gas-solid fluidized beds with evaporative liquid injection

The electrical capacitance tomography (ECT) with neural network multi-criteria image reconstruction technique (NN-MOIRT) is developed for real time imaging of a gas-solid fluidized bed using FCC particles with evaporative liquid injection. Some aspects of the fundamental characteristics of the gas-solid flow with evaporative liquid injection, including real time and time averaged cross-sectional solids concentration distributions, the cross-sectional solids concentration fluctuations and the quasi-3D flow structures are studied. A two-region model and a direct image calculation are proposed to describe the dynamic behavior in both the bubble/void phase and the emulsion phase based on the tomographic images. Comparisons are made between the fundamental behaviors of the gas-solid flows with and without evaporative liquid injection for various gas velocities ranging from bubbling to turbulent fluidization regimes. Significant differences are observed in the behavior of the gas-solid flow with the evaporative liquid injection compared to the fluidized bed without liquid injection.
The Challenges of Defining Oral Cancer: Analysis of an Ontological Approach

An important inconsistency currently exists in the literature on oral cancer. Reviewing this literature, one finds that the term oral cancer is defined and described with great variation. In a search in PubMed, at least 17 different terms were found for titles of papers reporting data on oral cancer. The variability of the terms used for designating anatomic regions and type of malignant neoplasms for reporting oral cancer has hampered the ability of researchers to effectively retrieve information concerning oral cancer. Therefore, it is sometimes extremely difficult to provide meaningful comparisons among various studies of oral cancer. Recently, a new ontological strategy that is rooted in consensus-based controlled vocabularies has been proposed to improve the consistency of data in dental research (Smith et al. in J Am Dent Assoc 141:1173–1175, 2010). In this paper, we analyzed the terminology dilemma on oral cancer and explained the current situation. We proposed a possible solution to the dilemma using an ontology-based approach. The advantages for applying this strategy are also discussed.
Acinic cell carcinoma arising in ectopic salivary gland tissue

Two cases of a rare entity, acinic cell carcinomas, which apparently arose primarily from ectopic salivary gland tissue, are presented. Salivary gland ducts and acini frequently may be found incorporated within intraparotid lymph nodes and less commonly within extraglandular cervical nodes. Ectopic salivary glands may also be seen, although rarely, elsewhere in the head and neck area. The most common tumor to arise from intranodal salivary gland tissue is papillary cystadenoma lymphomatosum; however, other salivary gland-type neoplasms rarely may do so. In our cases, one tumor apparently originated primarily within a paraparotid lymph node and the other in the lateral mid- to low-neck area. Neither of our patients had a demonstrable lesion of a major or minor salivary gland; thus their tumors are presumed to have originated primarily from ectopic salivary gland tissue. The clinician and the pathologist should consider the possibility of a neoplasm arising in ectopic tissue when a salivary gland type tumor is identified away from sites where major and minor salivary glands normally are found.
A heterologous radioimmunoassay method for measurement of hamster growth hormone.

A heterologous radioimmunoassay (RIA) for determination of hamster growth hormone (GH) is described which involves the use of radioiodinated rat GH (NIAMDD Rat GH-I-2), antiserum to rat GH (NIAMDD Ant
The Anthropology of Aviation and Flight Safety

This article examines the anthropological issues posed by commercial aviation, an industry that in less than a lifetime has changed the meanings of space and place, and altered fundamental perceptions of global civilization. The article begins with a critical examination of the concept of "human factors" as the standard industry approach to the human role. It notes that the representation of flight, as a mass transportation mode, has not kept pace with the global deployment of this technology across multiple cultural regions. The article notes that commercial aviation, as a large-scale technological system, has been deployed on a global scale yet is only weakly governed by United Nations bodies and multilateral arrangements among air carriers. The article concludes with the observation of a process of technological peripheralization, arguing that technologies that promise an escape from economic marginalization can often promote technological marginalization.
Substrate twinning activates the signal recognition particle and its receptor

Signal sequences target proteins for secretion from cells or for integration into cell membranes. As nascent proteins emerge from the ribosome, signal sequences are recognized by the signal recognition particle (SRP), which subsequently associates with its receptor (SR). In this complex, the SRP and SR stimulate each other's GTPase activity, and GTP hydrolysis ensures unidirectional targeting of cargo through a translocation pore in the membrane. To define the mechanism of reciprocal activation, we determined the 1.9 A structure of the complex formed between these two GTPases. The two partners form a quasi-two-fold symmetrical heterodimer. Biochemical analysis supports the importance of the extensive interaction surface. Complex formation aligns the two GTP molecules in a symmetrical, composite active site, and the 3'OH groups are essential for association, reciprocal activation and catalysis. This unique circle of twinned interactions is severed twice on hydrolysis, leading to complex dissociation after cargo delivery.
Locational pricing of an environmental input

Abstract This paper models the joint production of outputs and heterogeneous effluents for firms exogenously located along a river. We derive location-specific water quality standards that reflect the nonsymmetric impact of upstream discharge relative to that same discharge further downstream. Depending on the type of sequential firm interdependence, a water control agency may or may not be able to insure efficient input choices by decentralizing these choices to the firms. Under certain conditions we can derive site-specific price aggregates to reflect the social imputed value of a particular type effluent released at a given site. If each firm is assigned responsibility for cumulative water quality just below its drain pipe, then water quality control may be modeled as an application of nonsymmetric recursive decision making.
Explaining Gender Differences in Depression: an Interpersonal Contingent Self-Esteem Perspective

The quality of interpersonal relationships may be a key factor in the etiology of depression. An interpersonal depressive vulnerability has been proposed to interact with interpersonal stressors to predict depressive symptoms. Research examining gender differences in this link has been inconclusive. We propose that research should focus on whether one’s self-esteem is based on the quality of interpersonal relationships. We propose a model of gender differences in depression that examines the role of interpersonal contingent self-esteem (ICSE) in the development of depression. Specifically, we propose that ICSE interacts with gender in the face of interpersonal stress to promote decreases in momentary self-esteem. Decreases in momentary self-esteem, in turn, lead to rumination, maladaptive interpersonal behaviors, and depressive symptoms.
Parenteral nutrition in overweight patients: are intravenous lipids necessary to prevent essential fatty acid deficiency?

Abstract Mobilization of endogenous adipose stores of linoleic acid prevents essential fatty acid deficiency during fasting. However, the dextrose present in standard parenteral nutrition inhibits lipolysis and induces essential fatty acid deficiency unless lipids are administered. It has therefore become standard practice to administer at least 50 grams of intravenous fat per week to patients dependent on parenteral nutrition. This study was undertaken to determine whether hypocaloric feeding would permit sufficient mobilization of linoleic acid from adipose tissue stores to prevent essential fatty acid deficiency in overweight cancer patients receiving fat-free parenteral nutrition. Fifteen patients (mean 127% ideal body weight) received continuous infusions of hypocaloric, fat-free parenteral nutrition for 14 to 58 days (median 30 days). Twelve patients lost weight during the study period, while no patient gained more than 5 kg. Changes in serum albumin were mild. Six patients required insulin for hyperglycemia; however, four of these patients had reductions in their insulin requirement despite continuation of parenteral nutrition. Fatty acid analyses were performed on plasma phospholipids from all 15 patients. No patient developed plasma evidence of essential fatty acid deficiency. In addition, no trend toward the development of essential fatty acid deficiency was observed with increasing durations of fat-free parenteral nutrition. Conclusion: Overweight cancer patients can tolerate prolonged, continuous infusions of hypocaloric, fat-free parenteral nutrition without developing essential fatty acid deficiency. This approach appears to reduce both the toxicity and the expense of parenteral nutrition.
Ethical Beliefs of Social Work Researchers: Results of a National Study

The purpose of this study is to examine the beliefs of social work researchers about ethical practices. Surveys were mailed to a random sample of 240 members of the Society for Social Work and Research (SSWR) to elicit their views about ethical practices in social work research. Responses from 160 members (67% response rate) yielded information regarding the appropriateness of dual relationships, authorship practices, informed consent procedures, and other conduct in social work research. Age, gender, educational level, years of social work research experience, and current teaching of social work research were related to respondents' ethical views about practices with students and sexual relationships with research subjects. The need for additional resources on ethics in social work research is highlighted.
A simple protocol for assessing inter-trial and inter-examiner reliability for two noninvasive measures of limb muscle strength

Noninvasive measures of limb muscle strength are quite useful in preclinical translational studies that use mouse models of muscle disease, peripheral nerve disease, and movement disorders. The present study uses a simple protocol for assessing both inter-trial and inter-examiner reliability for two noninvasive methods of assessing limb strength in dystrophic (mdx) and wild type mice. One method, termed the whole body tension (WBT) method or escape test, measures the total phasic pulling tension exerted by the fore- and hindlimbs while a mouse attempts to escape into a darkened tube. Another procedure, termed the four limb wire grid holding test, measures the minimal amount of sustained tension (physical impulse) exerted by the fore- and hindlimbs while the mouse hangs suspended in an upside-down position. A comparison of the two methods revealed significant inter-trial and inter-examiner correlations in each procedure, although the WBT procedure consistently produced higher correlations than the four limb wire grid holding test. Inter-trial reliability for each test was higher than inter-examiner reliability, indicating that each longitudinal series of tests is best performed by a single investigator. The holding test also did not consistently detect differences between wild type and mdx populations at ages greater than 4 months. These results demonstrate the utility of a simple protocol for assessing the reliability of noninvasive tests that measure limb strength, and should be useful in comparing different functional measures in a broad range of translational studies.
Ophthalmologic Techniques to Assess the Severity of Hyperviscosity Syndrome and the Effect of Plasmapheresis in Patients with Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia

Abstract Background The aim of this study is to determine the serum immunoglobulin (Ig) M and serum viscosity (SV) levels at which retinal changes associated with hyperviscosity syndrome (HVS) as a result of Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia (WM) occur. In addition, the effect of plasmapheresis on HVS-related retinopathy was tested. Patients and Methods A total of 46 patients with WM received indirect ophthalmoscopy, laser Doppler retinal blood flow measurements, serum IgM, and SV determinations. A total of 9 patients with HVS were studied before and after plasmapheresis. Results Mean IgM and SV levels of patients with the earliest retinal changes were 5442 mg/dL and 3.1 cp, respectively. Plasmapheresis improved retinopathy, decreased serum IgM (46.5 ± 18%; P = .0009), SV (44.7 ± 17.3%; P = .002), retinal venous diameter (15.3 ± 5.8%; P = .0001), and increased venous blood speed by +55.2 ± 22.5% ( P = .0004). Conclusion Examination of the retina is useful in identifying the symptomatic threshold of plasma viscosity levels in patients with HVS and can be used to gauge the effectiveness of plasmapheresis treatment.
Programmed cell death—I. Cytology of degeneration in the intersegmental muscles of the Pernyi silkmoth☆

Abstract In the silkworm, Antheraea pernyi , the intersegmental muscles of the abdomen degenerate within 48 hr after the ecdysis of the moth from the old pupal cuticle. The process of breakdown was studied by light and electron microscopy. At about the 5th hour after ecdysis, the first trace of degeneration is seen as scattered areas of erosion of the myofibrils, accompanied by a slight contraction of the mitochondria. By the 10th hour after ecdysis, one can detect larger areas of degeneration and vacuolization, and an apparent extrusion of sarcoplasm. Electron micrographs at the 10th hour show degenerative myelin figures, shrunken mitochondria, and deposits of lipid near the mitochondria. Meanwhile, small, darkly staining bodies, presumed to be lysosomes, undergo swelling and apparent dissolution; in their vicinity, the myofilaments are eroded and destroyed. By the 15th hour after ecdysis, the muscle is flaccid, non-contractile, and reduced in volume by about one-third; the myofibrils and cross-striations become disorganized and disappear, except for the persistent Z-bands, to which remnants of the myofilaments are attached. The nuclei are pycnotic, the mitochondria greatly shrunken and degenerate, and the lysosomelike bodies rarely visible. The muscle has completely disappeared by the 48th hour. Meanwhile, the pre-synaptic portion of the neuromuscular junctions remains intact. The breakdown of the muscles can be accounted for by cytolysis brought about by what we interpret to be the rupture of lysosomes in the apparently viable tissues. This event is followed by the erosion and eventual loss of the myofibrils and by the degeneration of the intracellular organelles.
Micropatterning of endothelial cells by guided stimulation with angiogenic factors

Micropatterning technology holds significant promise in the development of micro/nanomedical devices. The precise control of cell position and migration is important in several applications. For example, the optimal design of implantable devices depends on the implant material's micro-and nano-texture, which influences the response of nearby tissue, including the microvessels. Therefore, we were interested in endothelial cell positioning and colonization on specific surface domains in the size range of microvasculature. To this end, endothelial cells were seeded in microfabricated grooves and exposed to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which plays a key role in the angiogenic response. Patterned silicon wafers with grooves of 50 microm width and depth and 150 microm groove spacing were used. Each patterned region had two semicircular ports at either end, one of which was used to seed human retinal endothelial cells (HREC) and the other to house VEGF embedded in Matrigel. After 1 week, cells were fixed and analyzed by laser scanning cytometry (LSC). Our results shows that we can control HREC seeding and positioning in surface grooves and that the speed of colonization of the grooves can be manipulated by local VEGF application. We were able to quantify this effect, showing that HREC relocate inside the grooves twice as fast in response to VEGF stimulation, compared to control conditions, at a speed of 3.14 +/- 0.01 and 1.55 +/- 0.01 microm/min, respectively. Our approach could be used towards the fabrication of "designer" substrates or devices that not only allow patterned cell growth, but also permit dynamic cell repositioning.
SUN-TRACKING AND RELATED LEAF MOVEMENTS IN A DESERT LUPINE (LUPINUS ARIZONICUS)

A B S T R A C T Both diaheliotropic (sun-tracking) and paraheliotropic (cupping) leaf movements are described for the Arizona Lupine [Lupinus arizonicus (Wats.) Wats.]. The leaf movements are shown to be non-circadian in nature. Evidence is presented that an active K+ ion transport mechanism is involved in these turgor-related leaf movements. Increasing concentrations of lanthanum, a known ion transport inhibitor, showed increasing inhibition of both leaf movements. Increasing concentrations of other salts did not inhibit either leaf movements, instead there was an increase in the cupping leaf movement (elevation of the leaflets) which is shown to be a water stress response.
Spectrophotometric determination of palladium with 2-mercaptobenzoxazole

Abstract A new spectrophotometric method for the determination of palladium is described using 2-mercaptobenzoxazole as reagent. The color reaction has a sensitivity of 0.08 μg of Pd per cm 2 for log I 0 /I = 0.001 and obeys Beer's law from 2 to 40 p.p.m. The effects of pH, time, order of addition of the reagents, temperature and diverse ions were investigated. The procedure was applied to synthetic solutions containing palladium plus a variety of foreign ions.
On the distributions of the ratios of the extreme roots to the trace of the Wishart matrix

Abstract In this paper, the authors cosider the derivation of the exact distributions of the ratios of the extreme roots to the trace of the Wishart matrix. Also, exact percentage points of these distributions are given and their applications are discussed.
Dielectric Breakdown Strength of Regenerated Silk Fibroin Films as a Function of Protein Conformation

Derived from Bombyx mori cocoons, regenerated silk fibroin (RSF) exhibits excellent biocompatibility, high toughness, and tailorable biodegradability. Additionally, RSF materials are flexible, optically clear, easily patterned with nanoscale features, and may be doped with a variety bioactive species. This unique combination of properties has led to increased interest in the use of RSF in sustainable and biocompatible electronic devices. In order to explore the applicability of this biopolymer to the development of future bioelectronics, the dielectric breakdown strength (Ebd) of RSF thin films was quantified as a function of protein conformation. The application of processing conditions that increased β-sheet content (as determined by FTIR analysis) and produced films in the silk II structure resulted in RSF materials with improved Ebd with values reaching up to 400 V/μm.
Coagulopathy in the trauma patient.

Purpose of reviewHomeostasis represents a delicate balance betweenhemostatic and fibrinolytic processes. This balance permitsarrest of hemorrhage after mild injury but preventsthrombosis from occurring under normal circumstances.Trauma disturbs the equilibrium between hemostatic andfibrinolytic processes, frequently producing either ahypocoagulable state or a hypercoagulable statedepending on the severity of injury, degree of hemorrhage,and the nature of the resuscitation. The purpose of thisreview is to describe the epidemiology andpathophysiology of coagulopathy after trauma and todiscuss novel methods of treating it.Recent findingsPublished reports during the past year focus on thepathophysiology of coagulopathy after trauma and novelmethods of treatment. Individual effects of hypothermia andacidosis on clotting factors and platelet function have beendescribed. The effects of varying resuscitation fluids oncoagulopathy have also been described as well as thecourse of coagulopathy over time. Recombinant factor VIIahas emerged as a popular therapy for traumaticcoagulopathy although a prospective randomized trial hasyet to be published. The efficacy of several new dressingsfor the local control of hemorrhage has been reported.SummaryChanges in coagulation following trauma are characterizedby a complex series of events that may result in either ahypocoagulable or a hypercoagulable state. Routinelyanalyzed coagulation parameters do not adequatelydescribe this state and they are deficient for guiding itstherapy. Several promising new agents are available fortreating hemorrhage in coagulopathic trauma patients thatshould result in improved survival.Keywordscoagulopathy, hemostatic bandages, recombinant factorVIIa, resuscitation, trauma
L5-S1 extraforaminal intraneural disc herniation mimicking a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor.

Abstract Background context An extraforaminal disc herniation may present as a retroperitoneal mass and is thus a differential diagnosis for a malignant lesion. Purpose To highlight the difficulty in the accurate preoperative differentiation between an extraforaminal disc herniation and a malignant retroperitoneal mass despite the use of advanced anatomical and metabolic imaging. Study design Case report. Methods The authors present a case of a 55-year-old man, with a family history of neurofibromatosis, who presented to us 2 months after the insidious occurrence of severe, unrelenting, right-sided, L5 dermatomal pain. He subsequently developed rapidly progressive motor weakness in the same myotome, which caused a foot drop. On examination, his straight-leg raise test was normal. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a peripherally enhancing, complex, cystic mass continuous with the L5 nerve, displacing its fascicles medially, as it descended over the right sacral ala. A positron emission tomography scan demonstrated increased radiotracer uptake. The clinicoradiologic presentation was that of a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor. Results At surgery, an intraneural disc herniation was seen. Conclusions Several pitfalls exist in establishing the uncommon diagnosis of an extraforaminal disc herniation. This entity occurs ventrally and must remain a consideration when elaborating the differential diagnosis of a retroperitoneal mass in close proximity to the vertebral column.
Culture, environment and livelihood: potential for crafting sustainable communities in Chiang Mai

Culture is touted as integral to the concept of sustainable development, yet most sustainable development efforts omit a cultural component. This paper targets traditional handicrafts as a potential cultural component for a sustainable development strategy. This paper analyses two of the traditional crafts of Chiang Mai, Thailand - saa papermaking and laquerware production - to identify the aspects of culture, environment and livelihood embedded in these crafts. The traditional production processes are diagrammed to illustrate the natural resource inputs and environmental impacts of these processes, as well as to identify spin-off economic activities from those same natural resources. The objective is to build a case for a culturally sensitive sustainable development that would revive traditional knowledge and skills, revitalise renewable natural resources and spawn new restorative economic activities that work in synergy with nature and culture.
Engineering a Brighter Sudan: Bringing Sustainable Energy to the Theou Village School

Engineering a Brighter Sudan involves bringing sustainable energy to a primary school in the remote village of Theou, Southern Sudan, where project member Mou Riiny was born. The project consists of specifying, designing, and building a power generation and storage system for the school as well as building a prototype system on campus at the University of San Diego (USD). Electricity carries with it a world of benefits for rural communities, including the alleviation of poverty, reduction of illiteracy, and help for the local economy by providing opportunities for entrepreneurship. The goal is to empower the people to obtain a higher level of education and independence, which will help a newly independent South Sudan prosper as a country.
Conversion of cysteinyl residues to unnatural amino acid analogs. Examination in a model system

Improved and efficient techniques have led to an explosive growth in the application of site-directed mutagenesis to the study of enzymes. However, the limited availability of only those 20 amino acids that are translated by the genetic code has prevented the systematic variation of an amino acid's properties in order to define more precisely its role in the catalytic mechanism of an enzyme. An approach is being examined that combines the high specificity of site-directed mutagenesis with the flexibility of chemical modification to overcome these limitations. A set of reagents has been synthesized and reacted with a cysteine model to produce a series of amino acid structural analogs at appreciable rates and in good overall yields. The selective incorporation of these analogs in place of important functional amino acids in a protein will allow a more detailed examination of the role of that amino acid.
Communication left speechless: A critical examination of the evolution of speech communication as an academic discipline

This paper explores several taken‐for‐granted assumptions in the evolution of speech communication as an academic discipline. At one time, the study of speech communication in this country largely focused on the development of one's voice toward an expanded appreciation of the “noble pleasures” of speaking. Through a series of epistemic transformations, the study of speech no longer directly concerns matters of oral performance and bodily gesture; instead, it has taken on the agenda of a social science discipline and has tended to de‐emphasize the significance of the body in human communication systems, concentrating instead on language (langue) systems, ideologies, and communication technologies. The implication of the subdued role of the human body in the process of verbal performance provides the central problem for this essay—becoming thematic in the genealogy of speech communication studies (namely, the series of choices to elevate the discussion of speech communication subject matters over and above...