cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
THE REDUCTION DIVISIONS IN THE POLLEN MOTHER CELLS OF OENOTHERA FRANCISCANA

Investigation of the Oenotheras has reached such a stage that it is essential, if any progress is to be made in the study of the group, to obtain species concerning the purity of which there can be no question. Of all the species so far studied, Oe. franciscana seems to give the most promise of being undoubtedly pure. This is a far western species, which was first described by H. H. Bartlett in 1914. His description is based on material grown at Washington for the first time in i910, from seed collected at Carmel Beach, California, in I905. Seed from this strain was sent to Dr. B. M. Davis in Philadelphia, and grown by him under the name of Oe. franciscana B., which race he has carried on in selfed line since I913. This strain has proved to be very stable. It has never thrown any mutants, has shown a high percentage of pollen and seed fertility, and in every respect acts like a well established pure race. It thus falls into a group with Oe. biennis L. and Oe. grandiflora Ait., which have also been shown to be very constant. The cytology of Oe. grandiflora has been worked out by Davis (I909) and has proved exceedingly interesting as revealing a very regular nuclear behavior during the reduction process, with a definite pairing of homologous chromosomes at diakinesis and the formation of a clear equatorial plate at the heterotypic metaphase. This uniformity in development is quite in contrast with what has been found to be the case in those Oenotheras which are less stable; and it therefore becomes of interest to examine the spore mother cells of the other stable species to determine whether they also may show the same regularity of development displayed by grandiflora.
A Comprehensive State Education Agency Plan to Promote the Integration of Students with Moderate/Severe Handicaps

Attempts to achieve integrated education for students with moderate/severe handicaps have grown considerably over the last 15 years. However, despite increased integrated educational opportunities for these students, wide variations in placement options continue to exist within and across states. We propose that state education agencies (SEAs) must take a proactive, leadership role in promoting integration. A case study illustrating comprehensive systems-change integration strategies employed by the Iowa Department of Education over the past 6 years and the results of those efforts are presented. Implications for other states are discussed.
Optically-measured and packed volume of lupine mitochondria.

Abstract Results are reported of experiments measuring the optical density, packed volume, swelling rates, and succinoxidase activity of lupine mitochondria under different osmotic conditions. The optically measured volume (1/O.D.) of mitochondria, with succinate and ATP added, varied inversely with osmolar concentration except for mitochondria isolated under very hypotonic conditions. However, the directly measured volume of sedimented mitochondria (packed volume) from the same preparations apparently still followed osmotic law. The data are consistent with two types of swelling, a gel swelling and a membrane-controlled swelling. The faster rates of swelling, measured by the time derivative of 1/O.D., were associated generally with the larger mitochondrial volumes. Isotonicity of the mitochondria, measured by swelling rates, corresponded to the concentration of the medium used for isolating the particles, except for concentrations appreciably lower than 0.4 M . Succinoxidase activity also decreased in media below 0.4 M tonicity under conditions used for measurements of packed volume and optical density. However a more complete characterization was required because either activation or inhibition was obtained depending upon the succinate concentration used. Low assay tonicity decreased the apparent first-order reaction constants for succinoxidase compared with those obtained in higher tonicities. Although the effects of cytochrome c and succinate prevented swelling and even promoted a contraction of the packed volume, the volume and rate of swelling measured by the indirect optical method was increased under similar conditions.
Brain temperature responses to salient stimuli persist during dopamine receptor blockade despite a blockade of locomotor responses

Abstract We examined how an acute dopamine (DA) receptor blockade affects locomotor and brain (nucleus accumbens or NAcc), muscle and skin temperature responses to three arousing stimuli (procedure of sc injection, tail-pinch and social interaction with another male rat) and intravenous cocaine (1 mg/kg). DA receptor blockade was induced by mixture of D1- (SCH23390) and D-2 selective (eticlopride) DA antagonists at 0.2 mg/kg doses. Each arousing stimulus and cocaine caused locomotor activation, prolonged increase in NAcc and muscle temperature (0.6–1.0 °C for 20–50 min) and transient skin hypothermia (− 0.6 °C for 1–3 min) in drug-naive conditions. DA receptor blockade strongly decreased basal locomotor activity, but moderately increased brain, muscle and skin temperatures. Therefore, selective interruption of DA transmission does not inhibit the brain, making it more metabolically active and warmer despite skin vasodilatation and the enhanced heat loss to the body and the external environment. DA antagonists strongly decreased locomotor responses to all stimuli and cocaine, had no effects on acute skin vasoconstriction, but differentially affected stimuli- and drug-induced changes in NAcc and muscle temperatures. While brain and muscle temperatures induced by cocaine were fully blocked and both temperatures slightly decreased, temperature increases induced by tail-pinch and social interaction, despite a significant attenuation, persisted during DA receptor blockade. These data are discussed to define the role of the DA system in regulating the central activation processes and behavioral responsiveness to natural arousing and drug stimuli.
Steric constraints in the recognition of peptide substrates for the epidermal growth factor receptor kinase.

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) stimulates cellular mitogenesis by binding to and activating its membrane-associated receptor. An important component of signal transduction by the activated receptor is the stimulation of an intrinsic tyrosyl residue-specific protein kinase, which selectively phosphorylates tyrosyl residues in the cytoplasmic tail of the receptor and in other cytoplasmic substrates. A recent study utilizing tyrsub, a new high affinity synthetic peptide substrate for the EGF receptor kinase, provided evidence that in peptide substrate binding, the tyrosyl residue plays the central role in recognition, with residues surrounding the tyrosyl residue contributing to stabilization of docking [Guyer et al. (1994) Arch. Biochem. Biophys.312, 573–578], A large body of previous work had identified acidic residues near the site of phosphorylation as most important for binding; therefore, other residues in tyrsub appeared to be promising sites for locating spectroscopic reporter groups. Since tyrsub has neutral residues –4 and + 4 residues from the site of phosphorylation, we prepared two analogs of tyrsub, in each of which one of those residues was substituted with Cys. These cystyrsubs were found to be effectively phosphorylated by EGF receptor prepared from A431 cells, on stimulation with EGF, with high affinities [Km(app)= 40–50 μM]. Modification of the cystyrsubs with iodoacetamide had no deleterious effect on the ability of the peptide to be phosphorylated by the EGF receptor kinase, while the labeling by 5-iodoacetimidofluorescein completely abolished the productive interaction between the peptide and the EGF receptor. This unexpected failure of the fluorescently labeled peptides to be phosphorylated does, however, provide information on steric limitations to recognition of substrates by the EGF receptor kinase. ©Munksgaard 1996.
Recent changes in heavy metal storage in flood-plain soils of the Lahn River, central Germany

Between 1995 and 2007, the concentrations of Pb and Zn in floodplain soils increased along a 60-km reach of the Lahn River, Germany, suggesting that the storage of some metals in the fluvial system is out of phase with recent declines in the release of metals to the environment. Re-sampling of surface soils to 5 cm along five transects perpendicular to the river indicated that the concentration of Pb increased between 1995 and 2007 along two transects and was statistically unchanged at the other three. The concentration of Zn increased at three of five transects and was statistically unchanged at two transects over the same time period. Between 1995 and 2007, concentrations of Cu were statistically equal along four of five transects and declined at the other transect. The increase in Pb and Zn was greater in a more rural than in a more urbanized reach of the Lahn River. Soil texture and organic matter content had virtually no impact on the concentration of metals. The increase in Pb concentration suggests a lag between the decline in Pb releases to the environment and its movement through the fluvial system. Increased Zn storage may result from the high solubility of the metal and the relative ease with which it moves through the environment. Environmental controls appear to have slowed Cu storage along the Lahn River, but are not yet reflected in Pb and Zn storage.
Variation in the pathogenic potential and molecular characteristics of bovid herpesvirus-4 isolates

Abstract Seven bovid herpesvirus-4 (BHV-4) isolates recovered from various clinical conditions of cattle were studied for their pathogenic potential in pregnant rabbits. These viruses were originally recovered from respiratory and reproductive tract infections of cattle. A virus dose of 4 × 106.8TCID50 per fetus was inoculated via the intrauterine route in 10- and 17-day pregnant rabbits. Clinical, virologic, and pathologic data were collected to compare the effect of each isolate on does and fetuses/kits. Three isolates (LVR-140, QVR-3140 and 86-068) caused abortion, fetal reabsorption and/or mummification in inoculated rabbits. Virus was recovered from tissues of inoculated rabbits (especially the spleen, ovaries and uterus) by organ explanation and/or co-cultivation. Intravenous inoculation of isolate 86-068 did not produce any clinical signs in either 10- or 17-day pregnant rabbits. All seven isolates of BHV-4 showed a predilection for the reproductive tract of pregnant rabbits but varied in the severity of disease signs produced. Variation was also observed in the genome of various isolates on the basis of restriction endonuclease (RE) analysis. Relationship of RE patterns to the variation in the pathogenic potential of seven BHV-4 isolates is discussed.
Endonasal transsphenoidal surgery: the patient's perspective-survey results from 259 patients.

Abstract Background Patient impressions remain an important yet often overlooked aspect of surgical success. Herein we present postoperative questionnaire results in patients after a standard direct endonasal approach, an extended suprasellar endonasal approach, and a reoperative transsphenoidal surgery for tumor removal with the operating microscope. Methods From July 1998 through April 2005, of 452 patients undergoing endonasal surgery, 346 were sent questionnaires, and of these, 259 (75%) completed them. Nasal packing was placed for 24 hours in the first 95 patients but not in the last 357. Result Overall, 73% of patients reported a better experience than expected and 8% worse than expected. A worse than expected overall experience was noted in 15% of patients with nasal packing compared with 5% of patients without packing (P = .001). Of patients with preoperative headache, 49% resolved, 34% somewhat resolved, and 5% worsened. The frequency of rhinological complaints declined from 2 weeks to 3 months postsurgery (P Conclusions Rhinological recovery is typically rapid and relatively complete after direct endonasal transsphenoidal surgery using both standard and extended suprasellar approaches. Compared with the sublabial route, the endonasal approach is associated with less pain, better nasal airflow, and a shorter hospital stay.
Local Capitalism, Civic Engagement, and Socioeconomic Well-Being

This analysis is designed to extend a newly emerging body of social stratification research grounded in theories of civil society. The goal of this larger body of research and writing is to provide an alternative social and economic developmentparadigm to the dominant neoclassical/rational choice/human capital perspective. In an economic world woven together by global marketforces, local social structures can become key variables that influence which places prosper and which decline. We begin by hypothesizing that local capitalism and civic engagement variables are associated with positive socioeconomic outcomes (higher income levels and lower levels of income inequality, poverty, and unemployment). To test these notions, we employ data on more than 3,000 U.S. counties. Net of the substantial effects of the control variables, three measures of local civic society -small manufacturing establishments, familyfarms, and civically engaged religious denominations - vary as hypothesized in three offour models. The performance of these local capitalism and civic engagement variables suggests a robust association with beneficial local socioeconomic outcomes. We conclude by outlining needed research on civil society that would contributefurther to a social developmentperspective. Over the past twenty-five years, social scientists have begun to define the contours of a global system of economic production and mass consumption (Wallerstein 1974). During this time, the orienting frame for analysis has shifted from an
Differential eddy diffusion of biogeochemical tracers

[1] The marine ecosystem dynamics in the subtropical regions is controlled by the availability of nutrients. Their supply depends on lateral transport from higher latitudes, which is affected by the characteristics of the oceanic mesoscale turbulence. In many cases turbulent transport is parameterized in terms of eddy diffusion. We here test the validity of this approach in a mesoscale turbulence model coupled to a simple ecosystem model. We show that the parameterization can be profitably used, provided that an effective eddy diffusion coefficient that depends on the reaction time scale of the transported tracers is used. If the diffusion coefficient valid for conservative tracers is used to express diffusion of nutrients and plankton, turbulent transport and biological productivity can be significantly overestimated.
Low temperature synthesis of carbon nanotube-reinforced aluminum metal composite powders using cryogenic milling

Carbon nanotube (CNT)-reinforced aluminum composite powders were synthesized by cryogenic milling. The effects of different milling parameters and CNT contents on the structural characteristics and mechanical properties of the resulting composite powders were studied. Detailed information on powder morphology and the dispersion and structural integrity of the CNTs is crucial for many powder consolidation methods, particularly cold spray, which is increasingly utilized to fabricate metal-based nanocomposites. While all of the produced composite powders exhibited particle sizes suitable for spray applications, it was found that with increasing CNT content, the average particle size decreased and the size distribution became narrower. The dispersion of CNTs improved with milling time and helped to maintain a small Al grain size during cryogenic milling. Although extensive milling allowed for substantial grain size reduction, the process caused notable CNT degradation, leading to a deterioration of the mechanical properties of the resulting composite.
Embodiment and Breast Cancer Among African American Women

African American women have historically been screened for breast cancer less than other women, contributing to higher mortality rates. Previous research has focused on social and cultural factors, such as discrimination and religiosity, as shaping African American women's screening practices. This article extends this research by (a) examining the decisions and justifications of African American women with regard to screening practices, and (b) using a theoretical focus on embodiment to better understand women in relation to their own bodies. Ethnographic research consisted of 5 months of participant observation at an Indiana (USA) breast cancer care center, and 15 in-depth, semi-structured interviews along the continuum of screening practices. The results showed that embodied understandings of the body, personal (rather than biomedical) considerations of screening and treatment, and the quality of doctor/patient interactions all play a significant role in women's decisions about whether to screen for br...
The rate of melanoma transection with various biopsy techniques and the influence of tumor transection on patient survival

Background Depth of melanoma invasion is critical because it dictates patient treatment and prognosis. Recent reports indicate melanoma transection with initial biopsy does not impact patient survival; however, tumor transection can lead to misdiagnosis and inaccurate staging. Objective This study assessed the rate of melanoma transection with various biopsy techniques and the impact of tumor transection on patient survival. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of all melanoma cases at our institution between 2000 and 2008. Of the 490 melanoma cases identified, 479 met inclusion criteria for the study. The transection rates of biopsy techniques were determined. Cases of transected tumors were matched with nontransected cases in a retrospective case-control fashion to evaluate survival. Results The rate of melanoma transection was 1.5% for excisional biopsies, 4.1% for punch biopsies, and 9.0% for saucerization biopsies. The means of disease-free survival for the control and transected groups were 911 days and 832.7 days, respectively ( P value .67). Overall survival for the control group was 1073.7 days versus 1012.4 days for the transected group ( P value .72). Limitations The study used a select population. The sample size of transected biopsies was limited, in turn limiting the power of the study. Residents performed the majority of biopsies. Conclusion Punch and saucerization biopsies were more likely to transect tumors than excisional biopsies. The transection of melanoma did not affect overall disease-free survival or mortality in the population studied.
Long-term follow-up of patients after coarctation of the aorta repair.

Late cardiovascular complications after operative repair of coarctation of the aorta include systemic hypertension, premature coronary artery disease, aortic valve abnormalities, aortic aneurysm, and recoarctation. We report the outcome in 274 subjects ≥50 years after coarctation repair. Operative repair of simple coarctation was performed on 274 patients at the University of Minnesota Hospital between 1948 and 1976. Twenty patients (7%) died in the immediate postoperative period. Of the 254 survivors, 2 were lost to follow-up, 45 (18%) died at a mean age of 34 years, and 207 (81%) were alive ≥50 years after the original operation. Coronary artery disease and perioperative deaths at the time of a second cardiac operation accounted for 17 of the 45 late deaths. Predictors of survival were age at operation and blood pressure at the first postoperative visit. Of the 207 long-term survivors, 92 (48%) participated in a clinical cardiovascular evaluation. Thirty-two of the 92 subjects had systemic hypertension that was predicted by age at operation, blood pressure at the first postoperative visit, and paradoxic hypertension at operative repair. New cardiovascular abnormalities detected at follow-up evaluation included evidence of a previous myocardial infarction, cardiomyopathy, atrial fibrillation, moderate to severe left ventricular outflow tract obstruction, moderate aortic valve regurgitation, recoarctation, and ascending aortic dilation. Thus, long-term survival is significantly affected by age at operation, with the lowest mortality rates observed in patients who underwent surgery between 1 and 5 years of age. More than 1/3 of the survivors developed significant late cardiovascular abnormalities.
Balloon-assisted coil embolization of intracranial aneurysms.

In an extensive clinical series, Sluzewski and colleagues evaluated the risks associated with balloon-assisted coil embolization (BACE) of intracranial aneurysms. Specifically, these experienced authors analyzed the results in 71 cases in which BACE was performed and compared the data with those from a group of 756 aneurysms in which coil embolization (CE) alone was used. Hence, during the interval between 1995 and 2005, the authors treated 827 intracranial aneurysms by using endovascular techniques. They observed that BACE was more frequently utilized in larger aneurysms with broad necks, unruptured lesions, and lesions in the posterior circulation. Predictably, balloon-assisted techniques had a higher procedural complication rate of 14.1% compared with the 3% rate in the conventional CE interventions. Follow-up evaluations of these 71 aneurysms were somewhat limited: only 52 lesions had 6-month angiography follow-up data. At that time, 71% of the lesions were completely occluded and 29% still had residual filling. Of the 15 incompletely obliterated aneurysms, 10 were subjected to additional intervention, including two surgical clip applications. Long-term follow up of these incompletely treated aneurysms was limited, but the authors report that at a meeting 28 months posttreatment none in this group demonstrated repeated hemorrhage.
BK Polyomavirus Infection in the Renal Transplant Recipient

Renal transplant recipients continue to have progressive kidney dysfunction and renal graft loss has been attributed to emerging opportunistic infections, specifically BK virus (BKV). BKV is postulated to be selected by the new potent immunosuppressive medications and to be an important factor in graft failure. The prevalence of BKV nephropathy (BKVN) is estimated to be 1% to 10% and renal allograft loss from BKVN has been estimated to occur in up to 50% of affected recipients. With the increasing recognition of BKV infection using PCR assays coupled with the immediate reduction in immunosuppression for BKVN, the incidence of graft failure secondary to BKVN may be decreasing.
Chemical reduction of three-dimensional silica micro-assemblies into microporous silicon replicas

The carbothermal reduction of silica into silicon requires the use of temperatures well above the silicon melting point (> or =2,000 degrees C). Solid silicon has recently been generated directly from silica at much lower temperatures ( 500 m(2) g(-1)), and contained a significant population of micropores (< or =20 A). The silicon replicas were photoluminescent, and exhibited rapid changes in impedance upon exposure to gaseous nitric oxide (suggesting a possible application in microscale gas sensing). This process enables the syntheses of microporous nanocrystalline silicon micro-assemblies with multifarious three-dimensional shapes inherited from biological or synthetic silica templates for sensor, electronic, optical or biomedical applications.
Intergenerational Patterns of Smoking and Nicotine Dependence Among US Adolescents

Objectives. We examined associations between parental and adolescent smoking and nicotine dependence in the United States.Methods. We used data from the 2004 to 2012 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, which ascertained smoking behaviors of 1 parent and 1 adolescent aged 12 to 17 years in 35 000 dyads. We estimated associations between parental and adolescent smoking behaviors, adjusted for covariates.Results. Parental current dependence was strongly associated with adolescents’ lifetime smoking (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.96; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.47, 3.55), whereas parental current nondependent smoking (AOR = 2.26; 95% CI = 1.92, 2.67) and former smoking (AOR = 1.51; 95% CI = 1.31, 1.75) were less strongly associated. Only parental nicotine dependence was associated with adolescent nicotine dependence (AOR = 1.66; 95% CI = 1.00, 2.74). Associations between parental and adolescent smoking did not differ by race/ethnicity. Parents’ education, marital status, and parenting and adolescents...
Reactive species mechanisms of cellular hypoxia-reoxygenation injury.

Exacerbation of hypoxic injury after restoration of oxygenation (reoxygenation) is an important mechanism of cellular injury in transplantation and in myocardial, hepatic, intestinal, cerebral, ren...
Mommy and Me: Familiar Names Help Launch Babies Into Speech-Stream Segmentation

How do infants find the words in the tangle of speech that confronts them? The present study shows that by as early as 6 months of age, infants can already exploit highly familiar words—including, but not limited to, their own names—to segment and recognize adjoining, previously unfamiliar words from fluent speech. The head-turn preference procedure was used to familiarize babies with short passages in which a novel word was preceded by a familiar or a novel name. At test, babies recognized the word that followed the familiar name, but not the word that followed the novel name. This is the youngest age at which infants have been shown capable of segmenting fluent speech. Young infants have a powerful aid available to them for cracking the speech code. Their emerging familiarity with particular words, such as their own and other people's names, can provide initial anchors in the speech stream.
2002—a research odyssey: Toward the development of a communication theory of identity

(1993). 2002—a research odyssey: Toward the development of a communication theory of identity. Communication Monographs: Vol. 60, Into the New Century, pp. 76-82.
Regulation of Discoidin Domain Receptor 2 by Cyclic Mechanical Stretch in Cultured Rat Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells

Discoidin domain receptor 2 (DDR2) plays potential roles in the regulation of collagen turnover mediated by smooth muscle cells in atherosclerosis. How mechanical stretch affects the regulation of ...
An Investigation of Bacterial Protein Interactions as a Primary Research Project in a Sophomore-Level Molecular Biology Course †

Longer term research activities that may be incorporated in undergraduate courses are a powerful tool for promoting student interest and learning, developing cognitive process skills, and allowing undergraduates to experience real research activities in which they may not otherwise have the opportunity to participate. The challenge to doing so in lower-level courses is that students may have not fully grasped the scientific concepts needed to undertake such research endeavors, and that they may be discouraged if activities are perceived to be too challenging. The paper describes how a bacterial protein:protein interaction detection system was adapted and incorporated into the laboratory component of a sophomore-level Molecular Cell Biology course. The project was designed to address multiple learning objectives connecting course content to the laboratory activities, as well as teach basic molecular biology laboratory skills and procedures in the context of a primary research activity. Pre- and posttesting and student surveys both suggest that the laboratory curriculum resulted in significant learning gains, as well as being well received and valued by the students.
Measurement of Regional Hemodynamic and Metabolic Changes in the Central Nervous System with Imaging Techniques

The modern era of quantitative studies of cerebral blood flow and energy metabolism in vivo began approximately 40 years ago with the development of suitable methods that were applicable to conscious unanesthetized animals and man. These methods were global in nature and provided only average values for blood flow and/or metabolism for the brain as a whole, but much of our current knowledge of the physiology and pharmacology of the cerebral circulation and metabolism was derived from applications of these methods. They have, furthermore, provided reliable quantitative data that are the basis by which all subsequent methods, global and/or regional, are evaluated.
Designing a Student Practicum for Special-event Production

The event administration industry exploded as an academic discipline in the 1990s, and data from the U.S. Department of Labor shows a 33 percent faster growth rate, in comparison to all other occupations, for event-planning jobs from 2012 to 2022. With these changes, the need for qualified college graduates entering the recreation and event-management workforce has increased. And while event-management theory and foundations are taught in classrooms, it is the real-life, practical experiences in which students that set them apart from other graduates entering the industry. The purpose of this article is to explain how embedding a practicum into an undergraduate curriculum can create a valuable hands-on experience for students while also giving them the opportunity to earn academic credit toward an undergraduate degree. This article highlights the outcomes of an embedded practicum while also providing a step-by-step process to create such an experience.
Synthesis and Characterization of Cleavable Core-Cross-Linked Micelles Based on Amphiphilic Block Copolypeptoids as Smart Drug Carriers

Amphiphilic block copolypeptoids consisting of a hydrophilic poly(N-ethyl glycine) segment and a hydrophobic poly[(N-propargyl glycine)-r-(N-decyl glycine)] random copolymer segment [PNEG-b-P(NPgG-r-NDG), EPgD] have been synthesized by sequential primary amine-initiated ring-opening polymerization (ROP) of the corresponding N-alkyl N-carboxyanhydride monomers. The block copolypeptoids form micelles in water and the micellar core can be cross-linked with a disulfide-containing diazide cross-linker by copper-mediated alkyne–azide cycloaddition (CuAAC) in aqueous solution. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis revealed the formation of spherical micelles with uniform size for both the core-cross-linked micelles (CCLMs) and non-cross-linked micelles (NCLMs) precursors for selective block copolypeptoid polymers. The CCLMs exhibited increased dimensional stability relative to the NCLMs in DMF, a nonselective solvent for the core and corona segments. Micellar dissocia...
A Review of “Catalogue 2.0: The Future of the Library Catalogue”

Recognizing that the nature of the library catalog, as well as cataloging itself, has changed significantly in the last 25 years, editor Sally Chambers has assembled eight thoughtful papers in this...
Review of polymer MEMS micromachining

The development of polymer micromachining technologies that complement traditional silicon approaches has enabled the broadening of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) applications. Polymeric materials feature a diverse set of properties not present in traditional microfabrication materials. The investigation and development of these materials have opened the door to alternative and potentially more cost effective manufacturing options to produce highly flexible structures and substrates with tailorable bulk and surface properties. As a broad review of the progress of polymers within MEMS, major and recent developments in polymer micromachining are presented here, including deposition, removal, and release techniques for three widely used MEMS polymer materials, namely SU-8, polyimide, and Parylene C. The application of these techniques to create devices having flexible substrates and novel polymer structural elements for biomedical MEMS (bioMEMS) is also reviewed.
Purification and crystallinity results from LiZnAs and LiZnP semiconductor materials

Nowotny-Juza compounds continue to be explored as candidates for solid-state neutron detectors. Such devices would have greater efficiency, in a compact form, than present day gas-filled 3He and 10BF3 detectors. The 6Li(n,t)4He reaction yields a total Q value of 4.78 MeV, larger than 10B, an energy easily identified above background radiations. Hence, devices fabricated from semiconducting compounds containing either natural Li (nominally 7.5% 6Li) or enriched 6Li (usually 95% 6Li) may provide a semiconductor material for compact high efficiency neutron detectors. Starting material was synthesized by preparing equimolar portions of Li, Zn, and P sealed under vacuum (10−6 Torr) in quartz ampoules lined with boron nitride and subsequently reacted in a compounding furnace. A static vacuum sublimation in quartz was then performed to remove the volatile impurities from the synthesized material. Samples from the sublimation process were analyzed by Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES), which showed that binaries and unreacted materials were sublimed out of the ternary material. Bulk crystalline samples were grown from the purified material. Individual samples were characterized for crystallinity on a Bruker AXS D8 DISCOVER, high-resolution x-ray diffractometer with a 0.004° beam divergence. The (220) oriented LiZnAs and LiZnP samples yielded rocking curves with a 0.235° full width at half maximum (FWHM) and 0.417° FWHM respectively.
Electrode Structure Effects on Current Up-Transient Operation in Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells

Transient responses of conventional carbon-supported Pt nanoparticle (Pt/C) and 3M's nanostructured thin film (NSTF) oxygen reduction electrodes are reported. The ultrathin 0.3 μm thick NSTF electrode exhibits less-than-zero voltage, i.e. a failed up-transient, when current is increased instantaneously from 0.02 A/cm2 to 1.0 A/cm2 at 80°C and the channel RH is greater than 80%. In contrast, under the same conditions, a 10 μm thick Pt/C electrode exhibits robust transient response. A transient model, coupled with experiments, is deployed to delineate the water transport dynamics and ensuing voltage response. It is found that thin electrodes, due to their low water buffer capacities, flood with liquid water rendering negative cell voltages during transients. Effects of operating conditions and electrode thickness on the transient response are investigated.
Component analysis of dyads designed for light-driven water oxidation.

A series of seven dyad molecules have been prepared utilizing a [Ru(tpy)(NN)I]+ type oxidation catalyst (NN = 2,5-di(pyrid-2′-yl) pyrazine (1), 2,5-di-(1′,8′-dinaphthyrid-2′-yl) pyrazine (2), or 4,6-di-(1′,8′-dinaphthyrid-2′-yl) pyrimidine (3). The other bidentate site of the bridging ligand was coordinated with 2,2′-bipyridine (bpy), 1,10-phenanthroline (phen), or a substituted derivative. These dinuclear complexes were characterized by their 1H NMR spectra paying special attention to protons held in the vicinity of the electronegative iodide. In one case, 10a, the complex was also analyzed by single crystal X-ray analysis. The electronic absorption spectra of all the complexes were measured and reported as well as emission properties for the sensitizers. Oxidation and reduction potentials were measured and excited state redox properties were calculated from this data. Turnover numbers, initial rates, and induction periods for oxygen production in the presence of a blue LED light and sodium persulfate as...
Abstract 3337: IL-6 and IL-8 stimulation of breast cancer stem cells contributes to trastuzumab resistance following PTEN deletion

Recent studies strongly implicated breast cancer stem cells (CSC) in therapeutic resistance and recurrence. Despite the benefits of HER2 targeted therapeutics including trastuzumab for the treatment of HER2 amplified breast cancer, one third of tumors do not respond and resistance develops in patient with chronic exposure. Although the mechanisms mediating HER2 resistance have not been completely elucidated, there is evidence that PTEN deletion plays a role. We have previously demonstrated that HER2 regulates the breast cancer stem cell population through regulation of Akt signaling resulting in Wnt activation. In order to investigate the mechanisms of trastuzumab resistance, we overexpressed HER2 and/or knocked down PTEN in luminal MCF7 and basal SUM159 breast cancer cells. In addition, we knocked down PTEN in two HER2 amplified breast cancer cell lines BT474 and SKBR3. In each case, PTEN knock down increased the CSC population as determined by the Aldefluor assay as well as markedly increasing the production of the cytokines IL-6 and IL-8. Cytokine production was partially mediated through Akt activation of NF-κB. Short term trastuzumab treatment decreased the CSC population in HER2 amplified breast cancer cell lines, an effect that was completely abrogated by PTEN knockdown. Long term trastuzumab treatment of HER2 amplified and PTEN deleted cell lines generated resistant populations that secreted significantly elevated levels of IL-6 and IL-8. In vivo, intrinsically or experimentally amplified HER2 cells with PTEN knockdown were highly tumorigenic and produced metastasis in multiple organs. We previously demonstrated that the Akt inhibitor perifosine is able to reduce CSCs in PTEN-deleted tumors. In order to examine the role of IL-6 and IL-8 in mediating trastuzumab resistance, we treated mice bearing HER2 overexpressing PTEN deleted xenografts with perifosine alone or in combination with an anti-IL-6 receptor and/or anti-IL-8 antibodies. Tumor growth was substantially suppressed by the addition of IL-6 and IL-8 targeting antibodies. These studies suggest that resistance to trastuzumab in PTEN deleted cells may be partially mediated by the activation of cytokine loops involving IL-6 and IL-8. The use of agents which block these cytokine loops may provide a novel approach to overcome trastuzumab resistance. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3337. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-3337
Isolation of Large-Terminal Sequences of BAC Inserts Based on Double-Restriction-Enzyme Digestion Followed by Anchored PCR

Isolation of the terminal portions of genomic DNA cloned in bacterial artificial chromosomes (BACs) is an important step in map-based cloning, and several methods have been developed. Here, we present a new method based on double-restriction-enzyme digestion followed by anchored PCR. BAC DNA was digested with two enzymes: NotI and one of four enzymes (EcoRV, HpaI, StuI, or XmnI) that produce blunt termini. After dephosphorylation, these di - gestions were ligated to NotI- and EcoRV-digested pMSK, a new cloning vector developed in this work that is derived from pBluescript SK(+). PCR products representing the left- and right-terminal sequences of BAC inserts were ob- tained using a primer complementary to pMSK and a primer complementary to sequences in either the left arm or the right arm of the BAC vector pBeloBAC11. We have tested this method with 15 different BAC clones, and PCR prod- ucts representing both the left- and right-terminal sequences have been obtained from all 15 BAC clones. This method is simple, fast, reproducible, and uses the same set of primers for any restriction enzyme used. With some modifica- tions, it can also be used for isolating the terminal portions of genomic DNA cloned in yeast artificial chromosomes and P1-derived artificial chromosomes. Resume : L'obtention des portions terminales de segments d'ADN genomique clones dans des chromosomes bacteriens artificiels (BAC) constitue une etape importante au cours du clonage postionnel et plusieurs protocoles pour y arriver ont ete mis au point. Les auteurs presentent ici une nouvelle technique fondee sur une double digestion enzymatique suivie d'une amplification PCR ancree. L'ADN de BAC a ete digere a l'aide de deux enzymes : NotI et l'une de quatre enzymes (EcoRV, HpaI, Stu Io uXmnI) qui produisent des bouts francs. Apres dephosphorylation, les produits de ces digestions ont ete clones dans le vecteur pMSK linearise a l'aide de Not Ie tEcoRV. Ce plasmide est un nouveau vec- teur derive du plasmide pBluescript SK(+). Des produits PCR provenant de l'extremite gauche ou droite de l'insert ont ete obtenus en employant une amorce complementaire a pMSK et une autre complementaire a des sequences presentes sur le bras gauche ou droit du vecteur BAC pBeloBAC11. Cette methode a ete testee avec 15 clones BAC differents et des produits PCR representant les extremites gauche et droite ont ete obtenus pour chacun des 15 clones. Cette me- thode est simple, rapide, reproductible et fait appel au meme jeu d'amorces quelque soit la combinaison d'enzymes employee. Avec quelques modifications, elle permet aussi d'isoler les portions terminales de segments d'ADN geno- mique clones dans des chromosomes artificiels de levure (YAC) ou dans des vecteurs de type P1. Mots cles : BAC, PCR ancree, isolement de sequences terminales, marche chromosomique. (Traduit par la Redaction) Notes 415
Promoting Healthy Eating and Physical Activity: A Qualitative Examination of Community-Based Obesity Interventions in Rural Kentucky

OF THESIS PROMOTING HEALTHY EATING AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY: A QUALITATIVE EXAMINATION OF COMMUNITY-BASED OBESITY INTERVENTIONS IN RURAL KENTUCKY Rural Americans are medically underserved groups and are at greater risk of becoming obese than urban Americans. The purpose of this qualitative study was to determine the perceived causes of obesity in six counties of rural Kentucky and to determine how to customize strategies to reduce obesity in these areas. University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service Agents formed coalitions in each of the six counties to assess their communities’ needs and assets to inform plans for implementing evidencebased obesity interventions. Between February and August of 2015, the coalitions were convened for a total of 11 meetings. Each of the coalition meetings was audio recorded, transcribed, and coded using NVivo 11 qualitative analysis software. Coalition members in these rural counties of Kentucky recognized aspects of their culture, poor dietary choices, and inactivity as the major reasons obesity is a problem in their county. Participants reported high prevalence of fast food restaurants, lack of access to healthy foods and physical activity resources, technology, and lack of time as barriers to healthy behaviors. These findings provide insight to inform tailored, evidence-based interventions for rural communities. Improving access to healthy foods and physical activity resources in rural areas may improve healthy behaviors and reduce obesity prevalence.
RECOMBINANT HEMOGLOBINS FOR THE ELUCIDATION OF A NEW MECHANISM OF OXYGEN AFFINITY MODULATION BY CL − IONS

Publisher Summary There is a group of hemoglobins like the one of ruminants and feloidea, who have developed a mechanism of oxygen affinity modulation by the Cl− ions of the solvent as an alternative to the 2,3-diphosphoglycerate (DPG) modulation found in human Hb. Aspect of the structure–function relationship in Hb is the role of heterotropic ligands on the modulation of oxygen affinity. These effectors interact preferentially with the deoxy-form of Hb, increasing its stability and as a result decreasing the oxygen affinity of the system. This mechanism allows an efficient release of oxygen by Hb at the level of the tissues. Examples of heterotropic ligands are protons, Cl− ions, and 2,3-DPG. The only approach to the elucidation of the mechanism of oxygen affinity modulation by Cl− is through genetic engineering. The construction of mutant human Hbs with different combinations of these amino acid substitutions will produce a system representing various stages in the formation of oxygen-linked Cl− binding sites in human Hb.
Eisenhower: A Life. By Paul Johnson. (New York, NY: Viking, 2014. Pp. 136. $25.95.)

The esteemed author Paul Johnson continues his series of biographies with this slim volume on the life of American General and President Dwight D. Eisenhower. This book is an engaging narrative in ...
The histology of metabolic bone disease

Abstract Patients with metabolic bone disease are usually cared for by endocrinologists. Pathologists may examine specimens if fragility fractures occur or if a bone biopsy is required. Some metabolic bone diseases have distinctive histologic features such as tunneling resorption in hyperparathyroidism, wide osteoid seams in osteomalacia, and bone marrow edema in transient osteoporosis. The histologic changes must always be correlated with clinical and radiographic features.
A Responsible Approach to Safety Regulation in the Automobile Industry

Daniel Brookins, Note, A Responsible Approach to Safety Regulation in the Automobile Industry, 85 Geo. Wash. L. Rev. Arguendo (Forthcoming 2017). Automobile safety is an issue of public health and welfare. People die when automobile manufacturers cut corners. Consequently, it is imperative that the governing regulatory agency, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, impose effective, fair penalties for violations of safety regulations. Current penalties have consisted, almost entirely, of monetary penalties against corporate entities. This framework has insulated the real decision makers — the executives — from liability. It has allowed them to pad their personal bank accounts while running over driver safety. To effectively enforce safety regulations, deter infringement, and save lives, NHTSA should utilize individual accountability. Drawing on the resources surrounding the responsible corporate officer doctrine this Note proposes a version of that doctrine for executives within the automobile industry: the imposition of negligence based civil penalties upon responsible corporate officers.
Simulating strain localization in rolled magnesium

Abstract The objective of this work was to computationally predict the interplay between material orientation, loading conditions, ductility, and failure behavior in samples hypothetically cut from a rolled plate of magnesium alloy AZ31B. Marciniak and Kuczynski analysis was used to predict failure by performing detailed finite element simulations in which imperfections are introduced at various angles to induce failure. Magnesium was represented by a reduced-order crystal plasticity model that has been shown to fit measured mechanical behavior, but is computationally efficient enough to be used in large-scale simulations and parametric studies. Plane strain tension simulations were performed on a range of material orientations, then forming limit diagrams were constructed for two selected orientations. Plane strain tension simulations indicate that for orientations where basal slip is active, the failure plane closely aligns with the basal plane. Additionally, the highest ductility was achieved by maximizing the amount of basal slip and equalizing the amount of extension twinning and non-basal slip. In magnesium, failure behavior is shown to strongly correlate with material orientation and the relative activity of deformation mechanisms. Comparison of the two forming limit diagrams highlighted the deficiency of using a single measure for ductility: although these orientations possessed similar strain to failure under plane strain tension this did not correlate with ductility under more complex loading conditions.
A Novel Theoretical Life Course Framework for Triggering Cognitive Development across the Lifespan

Although intellectual engagement is a significant factor associated with adult cognitive health, it is unclear what it includes, why and how it declines across the lifespan, and importantly, whether i
Investigation of proper long-term laboratory aging temperature for performance testing of asphalt concrete

Abstract The performance implications of laboratory asphalt loose mixture aging at 135 °C were evaluated by comparing the performance of mixtures subjected to long-term aging at 95 °C and 135 °C to yield the same rheology. Although the rheology of the mixtures aged at 135 °C and 95 °C matched, their chemistry differed. Performance test results suggest that the chemical changes induced by aging at 135 °C can negatively impact performance. The relationship between binder chemistry and rheology was unaffected by aging temperatures at or below 95 °C. The rate of oxidation increased with an increase in temperature, and thus, the optimal loose mixture aging temperature is 95 °C.