cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Adhesion receptors as therapeutic targets for circulating tumor cells.

Metastasis contributes to >90% of cancer-associated mortality. Though primary tumors can be removed by surgical resection or chemo/radiotherapy, metastatic disease is a great challenge to treatment due to its systemic nature. As metastatic “seeds”, circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are believed to be responsible for dissemination from a primary tumor to anatomically distant organs. Despite the possibility of physical trapping of CTCs in microvessels, recent advances have provided insights into the involvement of a variety of adhesion molecules on CTCs. Such adhesion molecules facilitate direct interaction with the endothelium in specific tissues or indirectly through leukocytes. Importantly, significant progress has been made in understanding how these receptors confer enhanced invasion and survival advantage during hematogenous circulation of CTCs through recruitment of macrophages, neutrophils, platelets, and other cells. This review highlights the identification of novel adhesion molecules and how blocking their function can compromise successful seeding and colonization of CTCs in new microenvironment. Encouraged by existing diagnostic tools to identify and isolate CTCs, strategic targeting of these adhesion molecules to deliver conventional chemotherapeutics or novel apoptotic signals is discussed for the neutralization of CTCs in the circulation.
Synthesis and Antiviral Activity of 2-Substituted Analogs of Triciribine

Abstract Triciribine (TCN) and triciribine monophosphate (TCN-P) have antiviral and antineoplastic activity at low or submicromolar concentrations. In an effort to improve and better understand this activity, we have conducted a structure-activity relationship study to explore the effect of substitutions at the 2-position of triciribine. 2-Methyl-(2-Me-TCN), 2-ethyl-(2-Et-TCN), 2-phenyl-(2-Ph-TCN), 2-chloro-(2-Cl-TCN), and 2-aminotriciribine(2-NH2-TCN) were designed and synthesized to determine the effects of substitutions at the 2-position which change the steric, electronic, and hydrophobic properties of TCN, while maintaining the integrity of the tricyclic ring system. These compounds were evaluated for activity against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1), herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), and human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and were found to be either less active than TCN and TCN-P or inactive at the highest concentrations tested, 100 µM. We conclude that substitutions at the 2-position of triciribin...
NetAffx Gene Ontology Mining Tool: a visual approach for microarray data analysis

Summary: The NetAffx Gene Ontology (GO) Mining Tool is a web-based, interactive tool that permits traversal of the GO graph in the context of microarray data. It accepts a list of Affymetrix probe sets and renders a GO graph as a heat map colored according to significance measurements. The rendered graph is interactive, with nodes linked to public web sites and to lists of the relevant probe sets. The GO Mining Tool provides visualization combining biological annotation with expression data, encompassing thousands of genes in one interactive view. Availability: GO Mining Tool is freely available at http://www.affymetrix.com/analysis/query/go_analysis.affx
An ultra low power bandgap operational at supply as low as 0.75V

We present an ultra low power (200nA consumption) reverse bandgap voltage reference operational from supply voltages as low as 0.75V. The reference is a part of a microcontroller system and has total area of 0.07 mm² implemented in a digital 130 nm CMOS process. Accuracy of ±1.5% (5 sigma) over temperature range −20 to 85°C without trimming and ±0.5% with trimming is achieved.
Sequence-Defined Transposon Mutant Library of Burkholderia thailandensis

ABSTRACT We constructed a near-saturation transposon mutant library for Burkholderia thailandensis, a low-virulence surrogate for the causative agent of melioidosis (Burkholderia pseudomallei). A primary set of nearly 42,000 unique mutants (~7.5 mutants/gene) was generated using transposon Tn 5 derivatives. The strains carry insertions in 87% of the predicted protein-coding genes of the organism, corresponding to nearly all of those nonessential for growth on nutrient agar. To achieve high genome coverage, we developed procedures for efficient sequence identification of insertions in extremely GC-rich regions of DNA. To facilitate strain distribution, we created a secondary library with two mutants per gene for which most transposon locations had been confirmed by resequencing. A map of mutations in the two-allele library and procedures for obtaining strains can be found at http://tools.nwrce.org/tn_mutants/ and http://www.gs.washington.edu/labs/manoil/. The library should facilitate comprehensive mutant screens and serve as a source of strains to test predicted genotype-phenotype associations. IMPORTANCE The Gram-negative bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei is a biothreat agent due to its potential for aerosol delivery and intrinsic antibiotic resistance and because exposure produces pernicious infections. Large-scale studies of B. pseudomallei are limited by the fact that the organism must be manipulated under biological safety level 3 conditions. A close relative of B. pseudomallei called Burkholderia thailandensis, which can be studied under less restrictive conditions, has been validated as a low-virulence surrogate in studies of virulence, antibiotic resistance and other traits. To facilitate large-scale studies of B. thailandensis, we created a near-saturation, sequence-defined transposon mutant library of the organism. The library facilitates genetic studies that identify genotype-phenotype associations conserved in B. pseudomallei.
Circulating cryoglobulins in nephropathic cystinosis

occurred without specific drug therapy. Progressive disease is often difficult to treat because of the frequently encountered pattern of drug resistance of the nontuberculous mycobacterial organisms. As the nontuberculous mycobacterial organisms are usually of low virulence, children with serious infections should be suspected of having underlying disease or immunodeficiency disorders. Herrod et al ~ reported pulmonary disease in two children caused by nontuberculous mycobacterial organisms. One boy with acquired hypogammaglobulinemia experienced progressive pulmonary involvement with Mycobacterium intracellulare avium infection for several years prior to his death. A boy with Mycobacterium fortuitum pulmonary infection responded to prolonged antituberculous therapy. In adults, most pulmonary infections caused by Mycobacterium intracellulare avium were found to be chronic, with persistently positive sputum cultures and no response to antituberculous therapy. The results of surgical resection were also disappointing because of recurrences. Although the majority had underlying disease, approximately one third of the infections occurred in young adults free of co-existing disease? The most frequent manifestation of nontuberculous mycobacterial infection in children is local infection of the superficial lymph glands. 1'4 Surgical excision is the preferred treatment if anatomically feasible, although antituberculous drugs, especially rifampin, have been efficacious as an alternative to surgery in some patients?. ~ Most
Isolation of a multigene family containing human α-tubulin sequences

Abstract Screening of two human genomic libraries with a chicken α-tubulin complementary DNA probe has resulted in the isolation of several clones containing a common hybridizing region. Restriction mapping of the cloned fragments reveals that, while the majority of sites are retained in each clone, there are a number of differences, including several within the gene-containing region. These differences cannot be ascribed solely to restriction-site polymorphism, and therefore reflect the existence of a family of closely related α-tubulin genes.
Evaluation and Treatment of Hypertension in General Pediatric Practice

Hypertension (HTN) in children and adolescents has become increasingly common. We sought to identify variability in the approach to HTN among general pediatricians as well as obstacles to care of hypertensive youth by surveying pediatricians referring to an urban children's hospital. Although most pediatricians begin blood pressure measurement at 3 years, there was substantial variability in the initial diagnostic evaluation of hypertensive patients. Just 7% of pediatricians routinely start antihypertensive drug treatment for HTN, whereas 82% refer their hypertensive patients to a specialist; 40% of pediatricians felt uncomfortable evaluating and treating HTN. Pediatricians unfamiliar with The Fourth Report were more likely to be uncomfortable with the care of hypertensive patients than those familiar with it (54% vs 33%, P < .05). Current practice does not appear to follow recent consensus recommendations. Interventions designed to address the issues identified in this survey may lead to improved care for pediatric patients with HTN.
The Experience of Culture in Multicultural Groups Case Studies of Russian-American Collaboration in Business

Research on multicultural groups has typically extended monocultural group research rather than building on prior cross-cultural research. This article brings together the literature on cross-cultural and multicultural groups to look at the experience of Russian-American collaboration. In this exploratory study, American (n = 17) and Russian (n = 18) informants described their experiences in on-going, business-related small groups. Qualitative and descriptive analysis suggested that cultural differences did impede collaboration, although mutual benefits to heterogeneous groups were also identified. The strongest cultural factor appeared to be the influence of external stakeholders on the group. These findings suggest that future research on multicultural groups needs to use a more complex approach to combine the findings of several bodies of literature.
Physical Activity and Fitness in African Americans: Implications for Cardiovascular Health

The prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD), obesity, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and physical inactivity is significantly higher in African Americans. The higher prevalence of these important risk factors is thought to be largely responsible for the higher CVD mortality rate in blacks. Limited evidence suggests that the aerobic power of African Americans may be inherently lower than that of whites. This apparent deficiency may be explained, in part, by differences in muscle oxidative capacity but is poorly understood. Studies have shown a lower prevalence of overweight/obesity, the metabolic syndrome, and insulin resistance with higher levels of physical activity/fitness. Training studies have shown that increasing physical activity and/or fitness positively affects metabolic risk factors, body composition, and insulin sensitivity. The few studies of African Americans suggest that they respond to exercise training in a manner similar to whites. Controlling blood pressure of hypertensive blacks at...
A rapid TRIzol‐based two‐step method for DNA‐free RNA extraction from Arabidopsis siliques and dry seeds

Extraction of high-quality RNA from Arabidopsis seeds has been a challenge. Here we report a two-step TRIzol-based procedure for RNA extraction from Arabidopsis siliques and dry seeds. This procedure employs a modified, high pH (pH 9.5) extraction buffer. High pH plus the addition of either DTT or beta-mercaptoethanol in the extraction buffer effectively inhibits RNase activity during the extraction, and removes most polysaccharides, polyphenols and other insoluble material. TRIzol reagent was subsequently used to purify the RNA. Using this procedure we isolated high-quality DNA-free RNA samples without DNase I treatment from Arabidopsis seeds or siliques in less than 3 h.
Electro-optical timer for improved anisotropy magnetometer

The torsion-oscillator magnetometer is a simple magneto-mechanical instrument for determining the magnetization 4 pi M and magnetocrystalline anisotropy field H/sub a/ of nonconducting materials. To extend the range of applicability, an electrooptical chopper and pulse counter have been incorporated for the accurate and rapid measurement of oscillation periods less than 100 ms. With these improvements, accurate values of 4 pi M and H/sub a/ were measured for highly anisotropic oriented ceramic magnets of the M-type magnetoplumbites that require applied fields above 10 kOe. The anisotropy magnetometer has been improved in two important ways: (i) the range of applicability has been extended to much shorter periods, thereby permitting the measurement of very high anisotropy materials that include c-axis aligned M-type hexagonal ferrites, and (ii) the improved convenience and precision have all but eliminated timer and operator errors that plagued the original version of the instrument, which was operated manually. >
In Vivo Generation of Hydrogen Peroxide in the Rat Corpus Luteum during Luteolysis

The hypothesis that hydrogen peroxide generation occurs in the corpora lutea of superovulated rats during luteolysis was tested using a peroxide-dependent inhibitor of catalase, 3-amino-l,2,4-triazole (AT). Luteal regression was induced during midpseudopregnancy by injection of 500 jig prostaglandin F2n (PGF2n) 1 h before administration of AT (0.1 g/ kg, ip) and was confirmed by progesterone analysis of peripheral blood serum. Within groups of both PGF2a-treated and untreated control rats, other rats also received ethanol (0.2 g/kg, ip), which prevents hydrogen peroxide-mediated inhibition of catalase by AT. Diluted homogenates of ovaries removed 1 h after AT administration were assayed for catalase activity by measuring the decrease in absorbance at 240 nm for 30 sec after the addition of hydrogen peroxide (10 mM). Ethanol-sensitive catalase inhibition by AT was significantly higher (47.9 ± 3.38%) in samples from PGF2a-treated groups than in controls (23.1 ± 4.82%; P < 0.01; n = 9). Similar increases in ...
Pluripotent Lineage Definition in Bovine Embryos by Oct4 Transcript Localization

The POU-domain transcription factor Pou5f1 (Oct4) is restricted to pluripotent embryonic cells and the germ line of the mouse and is required for the maintenance of pluripotency of cells within the inner cell mass of the mouse blastocyst. Despite highly conserved genomic organization and regulatory regions between the mouse Oct4 gene and its bovine orthologue, bovine Oct4 protein is not restricted to the inner cell mass of blastocyst-stage embryos, suggesting that Oct4 may not be a key regulator of pluripotency in the bovine. We analyze the temporal and spatial distribution of Oct4 transcript in bovine oocytes and preimplantation-stage embryos, and in contrast to protein distribution, we find strong conservation between bovine and mouse. Oct4 transcript is present at low levels in the bovine oocyte. Similar to mouse, bovine Oct4 transcription begins one to two cell cycles after zygotic genome activation, followed by a sharp increase in transcription subsequent to compaction. Oct4 transcript is ubiquitously present in all cells of embryos at the morula stage; however, in Day 7 bovine blastocysts, Oct4 signal is not visible in the trophectoderm by in situ hybridization, indicating that transcriptional downregulation of Oct4 on differentiation is similar to that observed in mouse and other mammals. These results indicate that in contrast to protein distribution, regulation of Oct4 transcription is conserved between mammalian species.
The accelerating universe and dark energy

The recent discovery by Riess et al.1 and Perlmutter et al.2 that the expansion of the universe is accelerating is one of the most significant discoveries in cosmology in the last few decades. To explain this acceleration a mysterious new component of the universe, dark energy, was hypothesized. Using general relativity (GR), the measured rate of acceleration translates to the present understanding that the baryonic matter, of which the familiar world is made of, is a mere 4% of the total mass-energy of the universe, with nonbaryonic dark matter making up 24% and dark energy making up the majority 72%. Dark matter, by definition, has attractive gravity, and even though we presently do not know what it is, it could be made of the next heavy particles discovered by particle physicists. Dark energy, however, is much more mysterious, in that even though we do not know what it is, it must have some kind of repulsive gravity and negative pressure, very unusual properties that are not part of the present understanding of physics. Investigating the nature of dark energy is therefore one of the most important areas of cosmology. In this review, the cosmology of an expanding universe, based on GR, is discussed. The methods of studying the acceleration of the universe, and the nature of dark energy, are presented. A large amount of experimentation on this topic has taken place in the decade since the discovery of the acceleration. These are discussed and the present state of knowledge of the cosmological parameters is summarized in Table 7 below. A vigorous program to further these studies is under way. These are presented and the expected results are summarized in Table 10 below. The hope is that at the end of this program, it would be possible to tell whether dark energy is due to Einstein's cosmological constant or is some other new constituent of the universe, or alternately the apparent acceleration is due to some modification of GR.
Proximal bodies in hypersonic flow

Hypersonic flows involving two or more bodies travelling in close proximity to one another are encountered in several important situations. The present work seeks to explore one aspect of the resulting flow problem by investigating the forces experienced by a secondary body when it is within the domain of influence of a primary body travelling at hypersonic speeds. An analytical methodology based on the blast wave analogy is developed and used to predict the secondary force coefficients for simple geometries in both two and three dimensions. When the secondary body is entirely inside the primary shocked region, the nature of the lateral force coefficient is found to depend strongly on the relative size of the two bodies. For two spheres, the methodology predicts that the secondary body will experience an exclusively attractive lateral force if the secondary diameter is larger than one-sixth of the primary diameter. The analytical results are compared with those from numerical simulations and reasonable agreement is observed if an appropriate normalization for the relative lateral displacement of the two bodies is used. Results from a series of experiments in the T5 hypervelocity shock tunnel are also presented and compared with perfect-gas numerical simulations, with good agreement. A new force-measurement technique for short-duration hypersonic facilities, enabling the experimental simulation of the proximal bodies problem, is described. This technique provides two independent means of measurement, and the agreement observed between the two gives a further degree of confidence in the results obtained.
Effects of a carbohydrate-restricted diet on emerging plasma markers for cardiovascular disease.

Increasing evidence supports carbohydrate restricted diets (CRD) for weight loss and improvement in traditional markers for cardiovascular disease (CVD); less is known regarding emerging CVD risk factors. We previously reported that a weight loss intervention based on a CRD (% carbohydrate:fat:protein = 13:60:27) led to a mean weight loss of 7.5 kg and a 20% reduction of abdominal fat in 29 overweight men. This group showed reduction in plasma LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides and elevations in HDL-cholesterol as well as reductions in large and medium VLDL particles and increases in LDL particle size. In this study we report on the effect of this intervention with and without fiber supplementation on plasma homocysteine, lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)], C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). Twenty nine overweight men [body mass index (BMI) 25–35 kg/m2] aged 20–69 years consumed an ad libitum CRD (% carbohydrate:fat:protein = 13:60:27) including a standard multivitamin every other day for 12 wk. Subjects were matched by age and BMI and randomly assigned to consume 3 g/d of either a soluble fiber supplement (n = 14) or placebo (n = 15). There were no group or interaction (fiber × time) main effects, but significant time effects were observed for several variables. Energy intake was spontaneously reduced (-30.5%). This was accompanied by an increase in protein intake (96.2 ± 29.8 g/d to 107.3 ± 29.7 g/d) and methionine intake (2.25 ± 0.7 g/d, to 2.71 ± 0.78 g/d; P < 0.001). Trans fatty acid intake was significantly reduced (-38.6%) while dietary folate was unchanged, as was plasma homocysteine. Bodyweight (-7.5 ± 2.5 kg) was reduced as was plasma Lp(a) (-11.3%). Changes in plasma Lp(a) correlated with reductions in LDL-cholesterol (r = .436, P < 0.05) and fat loss (r = .385, P < 0,05). At wk 12, both CRP (-8.1%) and TNF-α (-9.3%) were reduced (P < 0.05) independently of weight loss. IL-6 concentrations were unchanged. A diet based on restricting carbohydrates leads to spontaneous caloric reduction and subsequent improvement in emerging markers of CVD in overweight/obese men who are otherwise healthy.
Model programs for computational science: A programming methodology for multicomputers

We describe a programming methodology for computational science based on programming paradigms for multicomputers. Each paradigm is a class of algorithms that have the same control structure. For every paradigm, a general parallel program is developed. The general program is then used to derive two or more model programs, which solve specific problems in science and engineering. These programs have been tested on a Computing Surface and published with every detail open to scrutiny. We explain the steps involved in developing model programs and conclude that the study of programming paradigms provides an architectural vision of parallel scientific computing.
Multiscale Simulation of Liquid Crystals

Nematic liquid crystals are characterized by the occurrence of disclination lines, topological defects where the average molecular orientation changes abruptly. Recent experiments have shown that, in addition to their application in displays, liquid crystals permit the detection of ligand-receptor binding by optical amplification. The optimal design of LC-based biosensors requires an understanding of the effects of the presence of biomolecules on the structure and dynamics of nematic liquid crystals. We present a multiscale approach that combines molecular simulations and mesoscale modeling: Monte Carlo simulations are used to study the interactions of diluite colloidal particles, as well as the structure of topological defects; these results compare satisfactorily with the corresponding theoretical calculations at the mesoscale level. The mesoscale modeling of a multi-particle sensor shows that adsorbed biomo- lecules modify the relaxation dynamics in the device: at low surface-coverage densities, the equilibrium structure is characterized by a slightly perturbed uniform nematic order; at a critical density, the dynamics exhibits a slowdown at late stages, characteristic of the inability of the nematic to achieve a uniform order. These results are compared with experimental observations of the nematic response in biosensors.
Operads of Wiring Diagrams

This monograph is a comprehensive study of the combinatorial structure of various operads of wiring diagrams and undirected wiring diagrams. Our first main objective is to prove a finite presentation theorem for each operad of wiring diagrams, describing each one in terms of just a few operadic generators and a small number of generating relations. For example, the operad of wiring diagrams has 8 generators and 28 generating relations, while the operad of undirected wiring diagrams has 6 generators and 17 generating relations. Our second main objective is to prove a corresponding finite presentation theorem for algebras over each operad of wiring diagrams. As applications we provide finite presentations for the propagator algebra, the algebra of discrete systems, the algebra of open dynamical systems, and the (typed) relational algebra. We also provide a partial verification of Spivak's conjecture regarding the quotient-freeness of the relational algebra. Our third main objective is to construct explicit operad maps among the several operads of wiring diagrams. In particular, there is a surjective operad map from the operad of all wiring diagrams, including delay nodes, to the operad of undirected wiring diagrams. This monograph is intended for graduate students, mathematicians, scientists, and engineers interested in operads and wiring diagrams. Assuming no prior knowledge of categories, operads, and wiring diagrams, this monograph is self-contained and can be used as a supplement in a graduate course and for independent study. There are over 100 graphical illustrations and a chapter with a list of problems.
The Charitable Tax Exemption is About Much More than Efficiency

Efficiency is often used as a proxy for discussing nonprofit charity effectiveness, but such ostensibly objective measures can limit any true understanding of charities' potential. Although efficiency is the hallmark of many theories of charitable tax exemption and is sometimes useful, the conceptual framework falls short as a way to judge a nonprofit charity's worth or legitimacy. I would argue that the role of a nonprofit charity is to build contextual diversity in society and to continuously seek inclusion and justice. This role is a basic facilitator of the nation's democratic ideals. But facilitating justice may sometimes require that charities disrupt current norms and even act inefficiently. The third sector, as it is sometimes called, is supposed to continually recreate "the commons," or provide for public benefit. And clearly, this focus on collective benefit doesn't serve the best interest of individuals; it serves the public at large or a disenfranchised minority. This discussion proposes a concept called "contextual diversity" as an alternative understanding of the charitable tax exemption. The concept is based on two theoretical constructs that better fit as justifications for the charitable tax exemption and for the value of nonprofit work in general: (1) law and market theory and (2) critical race theory.
Land beyond the mists: essays in identity & authority in precolonial Congo and Rwanda

David Newbury, Athens, OH, Ohio University Press, 2009, xvi +444 pp. For nearly four decades David Newbury's scholarship has profoundly enhanced historical research on Africa's Great Lakes region. ...
Research and Policy Considerations for English Learner Equity

English learners (ELs), students from a home where a language other than English is spoken and who are in the process of developing English proficiency themselves, represent more than 10% of the U.S. student population. Oftentimes, education policies and practices create barriers for ELs to achieve access and outcomes that are equitable to those of their non-EL peers. Recent education research—often using experimental and quasi-experimental designs—provides new insights on how to evaluate EL policies, as well as how best to alter current policies to yield more equitable outcomes for ELs. Topics discussed include (a) EL classification and services, (b) language of instruction, (c) access to core content, and (d) assessments.
Elastic stable intramedullary nailing of femoral shaft fractures in children

We report the use of elastic stable intramedullary nailing (ESIN) in 123 fractures of the femoral shaft in children. Flexible rods are introduced through the distal metaphyseal area, and the aim is to develop bridging callus. Early weight-bearing is possible and is recommended. There was one case of bone infection and no delayed union. Complications were minimal, the most common being minor skin ulceration caused by the ends of the rods. A surprising feature was the low incidence of growth changes, with a mean lengthening of only 1.2 mm after an average follow-up of 22 months. Compared with conservative treatment, ESIN obviates the need for prolonged bed rest and is thus particularly advantageous for treating children.
Allergic Interstitial Pancreatitis in Rats Injected with Guinea Pig Anti-insulin Serum

The diabetic syndrome induced in rats by guinea-pig anti-insulin serum is complicated by interstitial pancreatitis similar in several respects to that seen in some infants born of diabetic mothers. It is characterized by lesions in the exocrine portion of the gland which include eosinophilic infiltration (73 per cent), edema (54 per cent), and focal areas of necrosis (15 per cent) or hemorrhage (14 per cent). Its appearance is not related to the severity of the induced diabetes and its nature suggests that it is allergic in origin. Other histological findings are consistent with previous observations and similar to those encountered in human and other forms of experimental diabetes.
Gene expression in Peyronie's disease.

Currently, surgical intervention is the only efficacious treatment for Peyronie's disease (PD), a fibromatosis of the tunica albuginea of the penis. Therapies based on the molecular pathways for this disease could provide alternatives to surgical treatment but only recently has the pathophysiology of the Peyronie's disease plaque been investigated at the molecular level. In this review, we examine the current knowledge of gene expression in the PD plaque and the relationship of PD with other fibrotic conditions such as Dupytren's disease. TGFβ1, along with other growth factors, pro-fibrotic genes, and collagen, are expressed in fibroblasts and myofibroblasts. Myofibroblasts are normally involved in wound contracture and largely eliminated via apoptosis during the late stages of wound remodeling. In the PD plaque, however, these cells persist and may play an important role in the PD plaque fibrosis. The expression levels of TGFβ1 and pro- and anti-fibrotic gene products, along with the nitric oxide/reactive oxygen species (NO/ROS) ratio in the tunica albuginea, appear to be essential for the formation and progression of the PD plaque and effect the expression of multiple genes. This can be assessed with the recently developed DNA-based chip arrays and results with the PD plaque have been encouraging. OSF-1 (osteoblast recruitment), MCP-1 (macrophage recruitment), procollagenase IV (collagenase degradation), and other fibrotic genes have been identified as being possible candidate regulatory genes. Finally, possible therapeutic avenues for gene-based therapy in the treatment of PD are discussed that may eventually reduce the need for surgical intervention.
Why Do Firms Not Collaborate? The Role of Competencies and Technological Regimes

Determinants and effects of innovation are topics of intense research interest, particularly since the fundamental relationship between economic and technological change has become acknowledged more widely. As a result, the contributions of research and development activities (RD Rothwell, 1994). Organizational choices, for instance, whether to organize knowledge-creation activities internally or outsource them, have a considerable impact on the strength of the interactions among the necessary sources of knowledge.
The potential of Precision Medicine

The evolving field of Precision Medicine is revolutionizing drug discovery and healthcare delivery. In this article, we take a look at how this nascent field has already impacted drug development for targeted therapy and the widespread use of genetic testing to assist clinical decision making at point-of-care. We also examine how the interaction of people and technology plays a critical role in Precision Medicine delivery. Finally, we conclude with how Precision Medicine can bring healthcare's spiralling costs down, while improving patient outcomes.
The post-total hysterectomy (vault) vesicovaginal fistula

Sixty-seven cases of lower urinary tract genital fistulas were seen during the last 7 years. Of the 67 cases 45 (67 per cent) followed total hysterectomy, of which 43 were operated upon transvaginally using the Latzko technique of partial colpocleisis. There were 40 primary cures (93 per cent) and 3 failures (7 per cent), each of which was cured by a secondary Latzko operation. The advantages of the operation are discussed.
Self-Saving Princess: Feminism and Post-Play Narrative Modding

This paper explores and investigates the myriad of ways that video game narratives get modded post-play for feminist purposes (intentionally and unintentionally). We will look at modding through cultural critique of the medium as well as through online discussion surrounding game play and game design that happens without the intent of feminist critique or modding. “Modding” as an activity emerges differently in each context, and we explore examples that show the richness and instability of this concept below. Specifically, we are interested in the way women change the way others experience the game (modding) in order to help expose or improve the gaming environment for other women (feminist purposes). For the purposes of this discussion we are defining post-play narrative modding (PPNM) as any significant changes to the narrative or to a gamer’s perception of the narrative that happens post game development and without actually changing the code. With constant downloadable content (DLC) and updates, video games are rarely static. PPNM, however, attempts to focus on what happens after the game’s initial release, which is typically the time when it receives the most attention. While we focus more strongly on players who have already played the game, it is possible, and probably common, that players who have yet to experience the game may also have their read of the narrative affected by the post-play narrative modding that they encounter. “Post-play” does not intend to suggest that the play is ever finished or that it is a linear activity. Instead, “post-play” in this context is meant to indicate all activity that happens after the moment the game goes public and players are able to interact with the game.
Recent Results of Esophageal Cancer Surgery in North America

The organizers and Scientific Committee for the 1986 International Esophageal Week asked that an overview be presented on current results for the treatment of esophageal cancer in North America. To accomodate this request, a brief questionnaire was developed and submitted to 20 centers in the United States and Canada whose work in the field is well known. The time available for response was very short. Accordingly, only those centers whose data analyses were current could respond in detail. Such detailed responses were received from thirteen groups listed in Table 1. Limited responses discussing approaches but without extensive data were received from another five centers, also listed in Table 1. Since much of the data has not been published, and this report does not intend to preempt or preclude subsequent publication by the individual centers, the centers are identified only by a code letter. Only those series whose results extend into the 1980s are included in the detailed analyses. This limitation is done in an effort to make the survey current. Those centers which have recent publications presenting some or all of their current data are cited in the references [1–3, 8,11].
Surface profile and stress field evaluation using digital gradient sensing method

Shape and surface topography evaluation from measured orthogonal slope/gradient data is of considerable engineering significance since many full-field optical sensors and interferometers readily output such a data accurately. This has applications ranging from metrology of optical and electronic elements (lenses, silicon wafers, thin film coatings), surface profile estimation, wave front and shape reconstruction, to name a few. In this context, a new methodology for surface profile and stress field determination based on a recently introduced non-contact, full-field optical method called digital gradient sensing (DGS) capable of measuring small angular deflections of light rays coupled with a robust finite-difference-based least-squares integration (HFLI) scheme in the Southwell configuration is advanced here. The method is demonstrated by evaluating (a) surface profiles of mechanically warped silicon wafers and (b) stress gradients near growing cracks in planar phase objects.
Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Control of Epilepsy

Results of intermittent stimulation of the vagus nerve in four patients with intractable partial seizures are reported from the Department of Neurology, Bowman Gray School of Medicine, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC.
Electromagnetic Scattering from the Sea at Low Grazing Angles

Radars operating from ships, shore installations, and low-flying aircraft inevitably view the sea at low grazing angles from zero to a few degrees. Under these conditions it is expected that the surface might often be deeply shadowed, yet the experimental evidence is unclear, sometimes even contradictory. It is obvious that this is a very special scattering regime, in which the conventional ideas of sea scatter are quite possibly of little use. Any approach to understanding this regime must be guided by two basic questions: 1. In the most general case of bistatic scattering, how much, and what part of the sea surface is actually illuminated and observed simultaneously in a scattering interaction? 2. What are the special structural characteristics of the scattering elements in such regions, and what theoretical models are to be used.
Brief Report: Using a Point-of-View Camera to Measure Eye Gaze in Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder During Naturalistic Social Interactions: A Pilot Study.

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) show reduced gaze to social partners. Eye contact during live interactions is often measured using stationary cameras that capture various views of the child, but determining a child’s precise gaze target within another’s face is nearly impossible. This study compared eye gaze coding derived from stationary cameras to coding derived from a “point-of-view” (PoV) camera on the social partner. Interobserver agreement for gaze targets was higher using PoV cameras relative to stationary cameras. PoV camera codes, but not stationary cameras codes, revealed a difference between gaze targets of children with ASD and typically developing children. PoV cameras may provide a more sensitive method for measuring eye contact in children with ASD during live interactions.
Sub-20 nm Stable Micelles Based on a Mixture of Coiled-Coils: A Platform for Controlled Ligand Presentation.

Ligand-functionalized, multivalent nanoparticles have been extensively studied for biomedical applications from imaging agents to drug delivery vehicles. However, the ligand cluster size is usually heterogeneous and the local valency is ill-defined. Here, we present a mixed micelle platform hierarchically self-assembled from a mixture of two amphiphilic 3-helix and 4-helix peptide-polyethylene glycol (PEG)-lipid hybrid conjugates. We demonstrate that the local multivalent ligand cluster size on the micelle surface can be controlled based on the coiled-coil oligomeric state. The oligomeric states of mixed peptide bundles were found to be in their individual native states. Similarly, mixed micelles indicate the orthogonal self-association of coiled-coil amphiphiles. Using differential scanning calorimetry, fluorescence recovery spectroscopy, and coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulation, we studied the distribution of coiled-coil bundles within the mixed micelles and observed migration of coiled-coils in...
One Person Organizations as a Resource for Researchers and Practitioners

The one person organization has been neglected in much of organizational research. This has occurred despite the one person organization's ubiquity and importance to organizational theory and the workforce. Prior admonishments about the uniqueness of such firms have gone largely unheeded, and suggestions to the owners of one person organizations have often been misguided. The paper goes on to show how this modal organization fits into the open-systems framework and where the one person organization offers unique opportunities for important research in the areas of individual-work and individual-organization relationships, organizational founding research, and occupational choice research for marginal members of society.
American Crime: Ignorance Is Not an Option

AbstractThe final season of ABC’s American Crime focused on human trafficking in rural North Carolina. Unlike many earlier television depictions, American Crime illustrated a more realistic portrayal of modern trafficking by showing how “nice families” can be involved in this crime and how various tools are used to control victims. The show’s storylines include powerful portrayals of farm labor and domestic help trafficking. Unlike earlier Hollywood offerings, there are no heroic federal agents swooping in to save the victims and arrest all the traffickers. Viewers who are unfamiliar with human trafficking are shown the myriad challenges to ending modern slavery and how even the best allies are often helpless to change the system.
The Forkhead Transcription Factor FOXC2 Is Required for Maintaining Murine Spermatogonial Stem Cells

Continuous spermatogenesis from puberty to old age in males relies on spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) that possess the property of self-renewal and differentiation. The delicate balance between self-renewal and differentiation is of great importance. In mice, SSCs exist as a subpopulation of undifferentiated spermatogonia. SSCs are controlled by intrinsic molecular pathways that can be activated by extrinsic signals. Our results here first show that the expression of forkhead box C2 (FOXC2) is restricted to GFRα1-positive spermatogonia in the testis. Whole-mount immunofluorescence results reveal that FOXC2 is expressed predominately in As and Apr spermatogonia. Reduction of Foxc2 gene expression by shRNA lentivirus treatment significantly impairs the maintenance of SSCs in vitro. Furthermore, knock-down of Foxc2 decreases SSC colonization to only 10.42% compared to the control by transplantation. Reverse transcription and real-time quantitative PCR gene analyses following knock-down of Foxc2 indicate that Foxc2 may act as a suppressor for SSC differentiation. Extrinsic stimuli treatments show that glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor and retinoic acid act in opposite ways to regulate FOXC2 expression and subsequent SSC property. These results suggest that FOXC2 is a critical intrinsic regulator of SSC self-renewal and differentiation.
1 Transcriptional regulatory mechanisms for the response to amino acid deprivation of mammalian cells

Dietary protein is critical to mammalian nutrition and on a cellular level this translates into amino acid availability. Cells monitor amino acids and respond with changes in cellular processes, including gene transcription. Thus, amino acids serve as signal molecules to transmit the nutritional status of the organism to individual cells. Using two target genes, CHOP and asparagine synthetase, this chapter will review the transcriptional control mechanisms triggered by amino acid limitation, a pathway named the amino acid response. The transcription factors, identified thus far, belong to two subfamilies, C/EBP and ATF, of the bZIP superfamily. There is much yet to learn about the signal pathways and the molecular mechanisms responsible for transcriptional regulation by nutrients. Beyond gaining a basic understanding of these biological control mechanisms, characterizing how these processes contribute to the pathology of various disease states represents an exciting aspect of molecular nutrition.
Numerical Methods for PDEs

This chapter reviews the numerical methods for finding solutions to partial differential equations (PDEs). Boundary element method is applicable to most often linear elliptic partial differential equations, often Laplace's equation, and sometimes to parabolic, hyperbolic, or nonlinear elliptic equations. This yields an integral equation. The solution of the integral equation can be used in an integral representation of the solution. The problem of solving a partial differential equation within a given domain can be transformed into one solving an equivalent integral equation on the boundary of the domain. The unknown in the integral equation will be the charge density on the boundary of the domain.
Simmonsite, Na2LiAlF6, a new mineral from the Zapot amazonite-topaz-zinnwaldite pegmatite, Hawthorne, Nevada, U.S.A.

Simmonsite, Na2LiA1F6, a new mineral of pegmatitic-hydrothermal origin, occurs in a late-stage breccia pipe structure that cuts the Zapot amazonite-topaz-zinnwaldite pegmatite located in the Gillis Range, Mineral Co., Nevada, U.S.A. The mineral is intimately intergrown with cryolite, cryolithionite and trace elpasolite. A secondary assemblage of other alumino-fluoride minerals and a second generation of cryolithionite has formed from the primary assemblage. The mineral is monoclinic, P21 or P21/m, a =
Low-cost, high-impact altruistic punishment promotes cooperation cascades in human social networks

Theoretical models and experiments suggest that social networks may significantly impact the emergence and stability of cooperation in humans. Similarly, theoretical models and experiments have shown that punishing behavior can significantly increase cooperative behavior in individuals. However, how punishing impacts the effects of social networks on cooperation is not yet understood. Here, I examine a set of laboratory experiments in which participants choose to cooperate or defect under differing punishment arrangements. Through analysis of the experiment as a network, I evaluate how institutional arrangements affect the degree to which social networks promote cooperative behavior. The results show that cooperative behavior spreads from person-to-person in all versions of the game, but that in versions of the game with low-cost, high-impact punishment the influence both endures for more rounds and spreads further in the network. These results show that the extent to which cooperative behavior cascades is affected by the institutional arrangements that govern game play.
Systematic review of the use of pentoxifylline and tocopherol for the treatment of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw.

Objective Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is a pathologic process resulting in progressive destruction of the jaws. There are no established guidelines for the medical management of MRONJ. Interest in pentoxifylline and tocopherol is growing because these agents have been shown to be effective in treating osteoradionecrosis of the jaw. This review evaluates the clinical usefulness of pentoxifylline and tocopherol in treating MRONJ. Study Design Literature databases were searched for relevant reports of pentoxifylline and tocopherol in treating MRONJ. Only English-language reports and human studies were considered. Results There were 3 published observational studies and 2 abstracts relevant to this topic. The combination of pentoxifylline and tocopherol is associated with subjective and objective improvements and no major adverse outcomes. Conclusions Pentoxifylline and tocopherol has been demonstrated to be effective for managing MRONJ nonsurgically, and, thus, this treatment modality holds promise. However, larger clinical studies are needed to optimize dose and duration.
Optimizing the Spacing of Retrieval Practice to Improve Pharmacy Students’ Learning of Drug Names

Objective. To optimize student pharmacists’ long-term retention of brand and generic drug names through spacing and modification of quiz format.Methods. In three experiments, student pharmacists le...