cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Threshold work: sustaining liminality in mentoring international students

Purpose – This article, which is conceptual and exploratory in nature, aims to examine the use of sustained liminality in the initiation phase of the mentoring relationship. Liminality is the non‐structured transitional phase in transformative cultural and social change: a place betwixt‐and‐between, where previous and future norms are suspended. The article argues that providing an explicit liminal phase in mentoring relationships allows mentor and mentees to consider the nature of the relationship and the eventual process through which its goals might be accomplished.Design/methodology/approach – The article reflects on experiences gained in using a liminal approach to the mentoring process with distance transnational mentees. It presents the case for the use of what is termed threshold work in addressing the transition from non‐mentored to mentored status. It understands mentoring as a ritual enactment that requires a reassessment of cultural assumptions for participants with differing national identiti...
High-calorie total parenteral nutrition reduces hepatic insulin-like growth factor-I mRNA and alters serum levels of insulin-like growth factor—Binding protein-1, -3, -5, and -6 in the rat

Abstract High-calorie total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is associated with hepatic dysfunction and steatosis. Because TPN-induced steatosis might compromise hepatic expression of insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) and thereby limit its potential nutritional benefit, we examined hormonal and IGF-I responses in male Sprague-Dawley rats (270 to 300 g) fed by continuous intravenous infusion with high-calorie, high-dextrose (350 kcal/kg) TPN solutions for O (control), 2, 4, and 8 days. Since IGF-binding proteins (IGFBPs) are thought to modulate the biological effects of IGFs in target tissues, we also determined serum levels of IGFBPs. Animals developed hepatic steatosis after 2 to 8 days of TPN, as reflected by a sevenfold to 15-fold increase in hepatic triacylglycerol content ( P v control on each day). Serum corticosterone and insulin levels were significantly higher after 2 and 4 days of TPN, whereas serum growth hormone levels were reduced after 4 and 8 days. Serum IGF-I levels were not significantly different during TPN. However, there was a coordinate reduction in the three major hepatic IGF-I transcripts (7.0, 1.9, and 1.0 kb) after 2, 4, or 8 days of TPN, and IGF-I transcripts corresponding to multiple initiation sites within exons 1 and 2 were coordinately downregulated with TPN. Western ligand blotting indicated that serum levels of 38K to 43K, 30K to 34K, and 24K IGFBPs were increased approximately twofold after 4 and 8 days of TPN as compared with control values. Immunoprecipitation with specific antisera revealed that these changes reflect increased levels of immunoreactive IGFBP-3 (38K to 43K), IGFBP-5 (32K), and IGFBP-6 (24K to 26K). In contrast, serum levels of 32K and 34K forms of IGFBP-1 were reduced and levels of IGFBP-2 and -4 were not changed. In summary, high-calorie TPN results in hepatic steatosis and decreased hepatic abundance of IGF-I mRNA, suggesting that hepatic synthesis of IGF-I may be compromised during high-calorie TPN. Changes in circulating levels of IGFBP-1, -3, -5, and -6 emphasize that high-calorie TPN exerts complex effects on the IGF/IGFBP system, which may have important implications for understanding the biological impact of parenteral nutritional therapy.
In situ demonstration and characterization of progonadotropin-releasing hormone messenger ribonucleic acid in first trimester human placentas

GnRH has been shown to play a role in the regulation of secretion of hCG by human placenta. Immunocytochemical studies have demonstrated the presence of the peptide, but do not address whether the GnRH is maternal, fetal, or placental in origin. In situ hybridization studies using a biotinylated pro-GnRH cDNA were, therefore, undertaken to determine the distribution of pro-GnRH mRNA in first trimester placental samples. Using an avidin-biotin-Cy.5 detection system in conjunction with laser scanning confocal microscopy, pro-GnRH mRNA was shown to be present in both the cytotrophoblast and syncytiotrophoblast cells of placental villi, although not in the cells of the fetal connective tissue. Prior hybridization with a 200-fold excess of unlabeled probe blocked hybridization of the labeled pro-GnRH probe. Southern and sequence analysis demonstrated that the probe hybridized to a transcript identical to hypothalamic GnRH. Immunocytochemical staining using an antiserum to amino acids 6-16 of pro-GnRH demonstra...
Some effects of metabolic inhibitors upon survival of ultra-violet irradiated Escherichia coli.

Le niveau apparent de survie des cellules d'Escherichia coli irradiees par rayonnement ultra-violet peut etre modifie par « post irradiation » avec des inhibiteurs du metabolisme cellulaire.
A change of heart for phosphodiesterase signaling

Heart failure is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, highlighting an urgent need for novel pharmacotherapies. The drug sildenafil, which increases cellular cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) levels by blocking an enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5A (PDE5A) that chews it up, has been shown to be beneficial in animal models of heart failure. However, the limited efficacy of sildenafil in human heart failure trials, particularly in patients with preserved left ventricular systolic function, has led scientists to search for new ways to activate cGMP signaling in the failing heart. Lee et al. now identify PDE9A as a new cGMP-degrading enzyme in cardiomyocytes that may be a promising drug target. The authors showed that PDE9A is active in failing rodent and human hearts. Pharmacologic inhibition or genetic silencing of PDE9A was protective in pressure-overload mediated cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure in mice. In contrast to myocardial PDE5A activity, which is coupled to nitric oxide (NO)–dependent cGMP production, PDE9A-mediated effects on cGMP were shown to be coupled to atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) signaling and were NO-independent. NO independence is advantageous for a new drug in the stressed heart, as endogenous NO bioactivity is often depressed in human cardiovascular disease. This study identifies PDE9A inhibition as a new therapeutic strategy to increase cGMP in the failing heart. In addition to pursuing further preclinical testing of PDE9A inhibitors, gaining a deeper insight into the precise molecular basis by which the ANP receptor specifically couples to PDE9A may elucidate additional therapeutic targets in heart disease. D. I. Lee et al ., Phosphodiesterase 9A controls nitric-oxide-independent cGMP and hypertrophic heart disease. Nature 519 , 472–476 (2015). [[Full]][1] [1]: http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v519/n7544/full/nature14332.html
The new biology and its impact in biomedical strategies against HIV/AIDS

The sequencing of the human genome and the initiation of the structural genomics projects have ushered in a new age of biology that involves multi-lab, high-cost projects with broad task-oriented goals rather than the more conventional hypothesis-driven approach of the past. The new biology has led to the development of new sets of tools for the scientist to use in the quest to solve mysteries of human disease, biomolecular structure-function relationships, and other burning biological questions. Nevertheless, the impact of the new biology on the field of AIDS investigation has been minimal, predominantly because many of the tools in the HIV field of study were developed before the full advance of the new biology was felt in the biomedical community. Many of the high-cost megaprojects that involve large technological advances and are marketed as projects of promise to the biomedical community are not likely to significantly impact the field of HIV/AIDS research and cannot serve as a substitute for direct funding to the HIV/AIDS scientists working for vaccine development, an understanding of mechanisms of disease causation, and new tools for therapeutic intervention.
Liquid hyperpolarized 129Xe produced by phase exchange in a convection cell

We present a method for the production of liquid hyperpolarized Xe129 that employs spin-exchange optical pumping in the gas phase and subsequent phase exchange with a column of xenon liquid. A convection loop inside the sealed glass cell allows efficient transfer of magnetization between the gas and liquid phases. By condensing to liquid a large fraction of the sample, this scheme permits the polarization of many more Xe129 atoms in a given sealed-cell volume than would otherwise be possible. We have thus far produced a steady-state polarization of 8% in 0.1mL of liquid with a characteristic rise time of ≈15min.
Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome may present as severe restrictive lung disease

A majority of patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) will develop pulmonary disease at some point during their clinical course. Most patients with AIDS-related pulmonary disease present with the subacute onset of fever, cough, and dyspnea often in the context of other clinical findings that suggest infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) [l]. Clinicians must be alert to uncommon presentations of AIDS that may occur, particularly in patients who do not have apparent risk factors for infection with HIV. In the current report, we describe an atypical pulmonary presentation of AIDS that was associated with unusual histopathologic findings of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia.
Illusion of Control and Gambling in Children

This paper outlines a cognitive theory to explain persistent gambling behavior. The major thesis is that people who persist in gambling in the face of significant losses do so, in part, because they misattribute the locus of control of the outcome of gambles to themselves rather than a random environmental event. Stated differently, this implies that people who are involved in gambling situations and win, find ways to take responsibility for winning, and that people will seek to exert control and direction over future gambles as well. This explanation is not intended to totally supplant existing theoretical analyses of persistent gambling such as models of addictive processes, or psychodynamic motivations, but rather to add a cognitive process dimension. Indeed, the different models are not mutually exclusive. In all probability, parts of each are useful in explaining pathological gambling. This study suggests that more importance and more research is need in the cognitive area to fully understand pathological gambling.
Identification and Characterization of a Unique Chondrocyte Gene Involved in Transition to Hypertrophy

Abstract The character of differentiating chondrocytes in growing long bones has been defined by altered expression of a limited number of genes. To expand this set we have applied differential display to identify genes expressed in either mineralizing or nonmineralizing chondrocytes. One such gene, Band 17, has the following characteristics: (1) Band 17 expression is predominantly found in cartilage destined for mineralization. Band 17 mRNA is undetectable in articular cartilage and undetectable or weak in all other tissues tested. (2) Band 17 expression is spatially restricted to the lower proliferative/upper hypertrophic zone of chondrocytes in the growth plate of long bones and embryonic vertebrae. (3) Induction of a hypertrophic phenotype in progenitor sternal chondrocytes by treatment with ascorbate increases expression of Band 17. (4) Induction of hypertrophy in growth plate chondrocytes in short-term monolayer cultures correlates with a rapid but transient rise in Band 17 message. Our interpretation of these findings is that Band 17 expression is associated with the transition to hypertrophy, not maintenance of the hypertrophic phenotype. Molecular analysis of the 3′ end of Band 17 cDNAs and genomic structure has shown that Band 17 is a single copy gene transcribed into four messages. Alternative splicing of these messages is predicted to result in two proteins that differ at the C-terminal by 131 amino acids. The longer protein contains a C-terminal consensus sequence that potentially targets this protein to the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum. There is a Band 17 homologue in humans, suggesting conservation of Band 17 function in mammals. In summary, the pattern of expression and the predicted primary structure identify Band 17 as unique among all previously known chondrocyte genes.
Understanding effects of molecular adsorption at a single-wall boron nitride nanotube interface from density functional theory calculations

In this paper, we explored computationally the feasibility of modulating the bandgap in a single-wall BN nanotube (BNNT) upon noncovalent adsorption of organic molecules, combined with the application of a transverse electric field. Effects of analytes' physisorption on the surface of BNNTs regarding structural and electronic properties were delineated. Relatively large binding energies were calculated, however, with minimal perturbation of the structural framework. Electronic structure calculations indicated that the bandgap of BNNTs can be modified by weak adsorption due to the presence of adsorbate states in the gap of the host system. Furthermore, we have shown that the application of a transverse electric field can tune the bandgap by shifting adsorbate states, consistent with calculated current-voltage characteristics.
Weld deposition-based rapid prototyping: a preliminary study

Abstract At the present time, the most widely used commercial rapid prototyping (RP) processes are based on polymeric materials, such as plastics or photocurable resins. While these prototype products adequately meet the requirements for “form” and “fit”, they are only very infrequently able to provide any “function” capability. This is especially true when considering metallic products. Laser sintering of metal powers has been studied and is currently being developed into a viable process. However, laser sintering requires expensive equipment and a high price form of starting material. A possibly more economical alternative is offered by the use of weld deposition processing. Research at the University of Kentucky has allowed the development of a dedicated control technology, including slicing/planning, system implementation and post-processing for RP using gas metal arc welding as the deposition process. The metal transfer control system is used to control the size and frequency of the droplets in order to improve the deposition accuracy. The component to be prototyped is specified by CAD surfaces or a solid model in standard IGES format. An integrated and user-friendly environment has been developed to slice the part, plan the deposition parameters, and control the deposition process. In this system, the deposition parameters, and control the deposition process. In this system, the deposition parameters, including the travel speed, touch angle, welding current, and arc voltage, are variably controlled to achieve the required density and three-dimensional geometry. This system, together with its operation, is destroyed and examples of several complex-shaped components produced are illustrated.
Class Number Formulas Over Global Function Fields

In the classical theory of numbers, one has the famous theorem of Kummer giving the index of the cyclotomic units in the total unit group. Let A = Fq[T]. Then Rosen and Galovich showed an important analog of Kummer′s result for those abelian extensions of Fq(T) given by adjoining division values of the Carlitz module. In this paper we extend this theory to the case where A is the affine ring of a curve over Fq[ minus a rational point ∞. The analogs of the Carlitz module are the "sign-normalized" rank one Drinfeld modules of David Hayes.
Quantifying subresolution saturation scales from time‐lapse seismic data: A reservoir monitoring case study

The goal of this paper is to interpret and analyze time‐lapse seismic data quantitatively to better understand subsurface fluid saturations and saturation scales. We present a case study of a time‐lapse seismic survey. Water and gas were injected into an oil‐producing reservoir, and repeat seismic surveys were collected to monitor the subsurface fluids over a period of 14 years. In this study, we show that the subresolution spatial distribution of fluids, not captured by traditional flow simulators can impact the seismic response. Although there is a good qualitative match between the fluid changes predicted by the flow simulator and the fluid changes interpreted from the seismic data, the simulator predicts smooth saturation profiles that do not quantitatively match the time‐lapse seismic changes. We find that downscaling smooth saturation outputs from the flow simulator to a more realistic patchy distribution is required to provide a good quantitative match with the near‐ and far‐offset time‐lapse data,...
Characterization of adenosine A1-receptor binding sites in bovine retinal membranes.

Abstract Using retinas prepared from freshly dissected bovine eyes, we have characterized the binding of the A 1 -selective agonist, [ 3 H]PIA (N 6 -R-[ 3 H](2-phenylisopropyl)adenosine). Specific binding was linear over a range of membrane protein concentrations from 0·10 to 1·0 mg, and accounted for an average of 80–90% of the total binding. At room temperature (24°C), binding reached equilibrium at 60 min, and was reversible upon addition of an excess of cold ligand. Saturation analysis and Scatchard transformation revealed two apparent populations of receptor binding sites. The higher affinity site exhibited a K d of 0·134±0·007 n m and B max of 26·18±3·06 fmol −1 mg protein. The lower affinity site exhibited a K d of 21·83±4·39 n m and B max of 53·94±15·80 fmol mg −1 protein. Kinetic analysis of association and dissociation rates, performed at a low concentration of [ 3 H]PIA, yielded a calculated affinity constant for the high affinity site of 0·2 n m , in agreement with saturation studies. Competition experiments with a number of purine nucleoside agonists and antagonists were performed, using radioligand concentrations of 1 n m or less to examine binding at the high affinity site, and revealed a rank order of potency consistent with the reported pharmacology of A 1 receptors. We have also assayed for adenylate cyclase activity in this same preparation and determined that PIA inhibited forskolin-activated adenylate cyclase in a dose-dependent manner. Maximum inhibition (40%) was observed with 1 n m PIA, while 10 μ m 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine, an A 1 selective antagonist, completely inhibited this modulation by PIA.
Free convection heat transfer from isothermal spheres in polymer solutions

Abstract An experimental investigation of natural convection heat transfer from isothermal spheres to aqueous polymer solutions is reported. The power law model was used to correlate the data according to the theory of Acrivos [2]. Temperature profiles have been measured about an isothermal sphere in various polymer solutions and hot-film anemometry has been used to measure velocity profiles about a sphere in free convection heat transfer in a polymer solution. Quantitative information on the boundary-layer thicknesses was also obtained.
A novel laboratory approach for analyzing periodic signals

An experimental approach is presented for measuring the (root means square) values of the harmonics contained in a periodic signal by using an active bandpass filter. Instead of electronically sweeping the filter center frequency by the input harmonics, the filter center frequency is held constant and the input fundamental frequency is decreased manually, causing each input harmonic to be swept through the bandpass filter response. >
The Darwinian Revolution, as seen in 1979 and as seen Twenty-Five Years Later in 2004

My book, The Darwinian Revolution gives an overview of the revolution as understood at the time of its writing (1979). It shows that many factors were involved, from straight science through philosophical methodology, and on to religious influences and challenges. Also of importance were social factors, not the least of which was the professionalization of science in Britain in the 19th century. Since the appearance of that book, new, significant factors have become apparent, and here I discuss some of the most important – especially the way in which evolution as an idea came into being as an epiphenomenon of the ideology of cultural progress; the (often tense) interaction between ideas of biological progress and the urge to professionalization, and of how this led to a delay in the full appreciation of what Charles Darwin had done in the Origin; and the ongoing divide between biological functionalists and biological formalists, a Kuhnian-type paradigm difference that persists across the Darwinian revolution.
A preparative scale fractionation of ribosomal RNA from its precursors.

Abstract Conditions are described for use with columns of methylated serum albumin-kieselguhr which permit resolution of bacterial rRNA from its precursors. The key factors influencing the fractionation are temperature and ionic strength. When total RNA from a relaxed control strain of Escherichia coli is fractionated on a column (2 cm × 23.5 cm) with a linear NaCl gradient from 0.65 to 1.06 M (990 ml 0.025 M Tris-acetate, pH 6.5, 27°), three major components of rRNA are separated; these are the 17-S, 16-S and 23-S components. The 22.5-S precursor of 23-S RNA usually appears as a shoulder on the leading edge of the 23-S RNA. These components have been characterized in terms of radioactive labeling in vivo during the growth and starvation of this mutant and also by acrylamide gel electrophoresis. Short term incorporation of radioactive uracil appears exclusively in the 17-S, 22.5-S and mRNA fractions after chromatography. 17-S and 22.5-S rRNA's are synthesized at different rates and, during starvation, accumulate to a different extent.
Biobehavioral responses to interpersonal conflict during anger expression among anger-in and anger-out men.

To examine whether typical modes of anger expression (i.e., anger-in, anger-out) were related to cardiovascular, affective, behavioral, and cognitive responses to interpersonal conflict, 20 anger-in and 20 anger-out undergraduate men participated in 2 role plays, one in which they were instructed to exhibit their anger overtly and the other in which they inhibited their anger. Results showed that anger-in individuals used significantly more repression self-statements than anger-out individuals across both role play interactions (p > .01). Anger-out persons showed exaggerated diastolic blood pressure response in contrast to anger-in participants, but only during the exhibited anger role play (p > .04). When the anger exhibition role play followed anger inhibition, diastolic blood pressure responses were more intense (p > .05), and heart rate recovery was significantly slower (p > .03) among anger-out participants in contrast to anger-in participants. These findings indicate that modes of anger expression (trait) and contextual demands of the interaction (state) interact in complex ways to influence biobehavioral reactions to anger provocation.
Diary of a Political Scientist III, Fall 2006: Classes, Cadets, and Bob Corker

Classes begin today: one section of Rhodes College's celebrated great books course, The Search for Values in the Light of Western History and Religion, and two sections of a new course for me and (surprisingly) for Rhodes, Southern Politics. Today, as on subsequent Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays for the next 14 weeks, I'll begin at noon with Search and keep going until 2:50 with my other two classes. Over the years I've found that it's easier (not easy, but easier) to teach my classes back-to-back-to-back than to pump myself up for a class, come down afterward, and have to climb that motivational hill again before meeting the next one.
Determinants of vascular access: Patient characteristics or physician preference?

BACKGROUND The goal of the Fistula First Initiative is to increase the use of arteriovenous fistula (AVF) for dialysis to 66% of total dialysis patients. Most facilities fall short of this target. Our objective is to determine the impact of provider bias in influencing the rate of AVF in dialysis facilities. METHODS We retrospectively studied 176 patients who received a new vascular access for dialysis over 18 months in two groups. In one group, a single surgeon was involved in vascular access placement (56 patients), while the other group had multiple surgeons (120 patients). RESULTS A significantly higher number of patients received AVF as their primary vascular access in the single-surgeon group, even though there were no significant differences in age, gender, and co-morbidities in the two groups. There was no difference in primary and secondary fistula failure rates. CONCLUSIONS Our study shows that AVF rate varies in different dialysis units, involving different providers, despite similar patient profiles. This implies the presence of a possible bias among providers when selecting a patient for type of access. Thus a higher rate of AVF placement, closer to the target rate, can be achieved by removing this bias. Dial. Transplant. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Conversion of a Dune Buggy to a Hybrid Vehicle as a Systems Design Course Project

Department of Technology has purchased a used Dune Buggy years ago. It had a 6.8 horsepower Honda G65 engine with a centrifugal clutch to move the vehicle. Students in EDTE 341-Transportation Technologies course have tried, twice, to fix the engine, but they were not successful. As a student design project in ETME 475-Mechanical Systems Design course, during spring semester of 2009, three Mechanical Engineering Technology (MET) students, with the help of one Electrical/Electronics Engineering Technology (EET) student, have converted the vehicle to a hybrid vehicle. The purpose of the design project was to convert an internal combustion engine (ICE) driven Dune Buggy to a hybrid vehicle. ICE and Electric motor (EM) sizes were kept at about 6HP and cost was limited to no more than $3000. ETME 475 is a three credit-hour course with two credit hours for lecture and one credit hour (two lab contact hours) for laboratory. Laboratory time is used to discuss the project(s) and cover basic knowledge needed for the specific project(s). Along with regular textbook homework sets, students are assigned to turn in project related assignments. Most weeks, both homework and project assignments were due. First half of the semester was spent on designing the hybrid vehicle. Second half of the semester was spent constructing it. There were three students enrolled in the course. One EET student worked on the project to do electrical/instrumentations systems design and wiring. At the end of the semester, Dune Buggy was able to move with the EM. However ICE stalled as soon as the magnetic clutch was engaged. The following semester, fall semester of 2009, another MET student worked on the project to modify wiring and replace the magnetic clutch with a centrifugal clutch. This work was done under two credit-hour, ETME 499-Independent Research in Mechanical Engineering course. At the end of the semester, the Dune Buggy was fully operational with EM and ICE, one at a time, or both at the same time. Two additional MET students worked on the vehicle during the spring semester of 2011 as one of their low-tech projects to improve safety by covering cover exposed areas of the dune buggy and paint it. This paper discusses the details and coordination of the project as a design project for senior level Mechanical Systems Design course.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
TRANSRADIAL PCI IS ASSOCIATED WITH LOWER COST IN MEDICARE FEE–FOR–SERVICE BENEFICIARIES FOLLOWING ELECTIVE PCI

Prior studies demonstrate transradial (TRI) compared to transfemoral coronary intervention (TFI) reduces bleeding complications. However, limited cost–effectiveness data are available, specifically neither in large datasets nor in heterogeneous elderly populations at high bleeding risk. Our
Family victimization and recovery

This essay addresses the need to develop theory for family victimization to go with theory of individual victimization. An understanding of how family victimization occurs is necessary in order to help families advance in family strength and empowerment and recover from family victimization. Some contributions to family victimization theory are made; therapeutic strategies for empowerment are suggested.
Elevation of intraocular pressure after pars plana vitrectomy.

To determine the incidence and causes of increased intraocular pressure (IOP) after pars plana vitrectomy with the vitrophage, we studied 118 eyes undergoing vitrectomy during a one-year period. Fifty-one (43%) were in diabetic patients; 67 (57%) were in nondiabetics. Of the entire group, 33 (28%) developed a postoperative increase in IOP, which was defined as a rise in IOP of at least 10 mm Hg above the preoperative level by applanation tonometry. Of the diabetic eyes 25 (49%) developed increased IOP; 11 (22%) of these eyes required surgical intervention for control of IOP. Of the nondiabetic eyes eight (12%) developed increased IOP postoperatively; all were either transiently elevated or medically controllable. Postoperative rubeosis iridis occurred only in diabetic eyes.
Rethinking Alternative Education to Break the Cycle of Educational Inequality and Inequity

The growing number of alternative schools seems to correlate with the mounting population of disenfranchised students. The higher the number of disenfranchised students, the more alternative schools are being built. This correlation may be caused by social, economic, and political issues that bring about pervasive social injustice, which reinforces the cycle of educational inequality. In this qualitative study, the authors examined 1 alternative high school from a critical perspective to determine whether the school benefited students to the extent that it broke the cycle of educational inequality. Using critical theory as a theoretical framework, the authors found that the school provided a caring environment for students and gained their trust. However, the school did not offer a meaningful and equitable alternative education that benefited the students. This failure led the authors to question for whom this school is truly an alternative.
Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway Activation Is Enriched in Basal-Like Breast Cancers and Predicts Poor Outcome

Although Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation has been implicated in mouse models of breast cancer, there is contradictory evidence regarding its importance in human breast cancer. In this study, invasive and in situ breast cancer tissue microarrays containing luminal A, luminal B, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)+/ER− and basal-like breast cancers were analyzed for β-catenin subcellular localization. We demonstrate that nuclear and cytosolic accumulation of β-catenin, a read-out of Wnt pathway activation, was enriched in basal-like breast cancers. In contrast, membrane-associated β-catenin was observed in all breast cancer subtypes, and its expression decreased with tumor progression. Moreover, nuclear and cytosolic localization of β-catenin was associated with other markers of the basal-like phenotype, including nuclear hormone receptor and HER2 negativity, cytokeratin 5/6 and vimentin expression, and stem cell enrichment. Importantly, this subcellular localization of β-catenin was associated with a poor outcome and is more frequently observed in tumors from black patients. In addition, β-catenin accumulation was more often observed in basal-like in situ carcinomas than other in situ subtypes, suggesting that activation of this pathway might be an early event in basal-like tumor development. Collectively, these data indicate that Wnt/β-catenin activation is an important feature of basal-like breast cancers and is predictive of worse overall survival, suggesting that it may be an attractive pharmacological target for this aggressive breast cancer subtype.
Early photosensitizer uptake kinetics predict optimum drug-light interval for photodynamic therapy

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has shown promising results in targeted treatment of cancerous cells by developing localized toxicity with the help of light induced generation of reactive molecular species. The efficiency of this therapy depends on the product of the intensity of light dose and the concentration of photosensitizer (PS) in the region of interest (ROI). On account of this, the dynamic and variable nature of PS delivery and retention depends on many physiological factors that are known to be heterogeneous within and amongst tumors (e.g., blood flow, blood volume, vascular permeability, and lymph drainage rate). This presents a major challenge with respect to how the optimal time and interval of light delivery is chosen, which ideally would be when the concentration of PS molecule is at its maximum in the ROI. In this paper, a predictive algorithm is developed that takes into consideration the variability and dynamic nature of PS distribution in the body on a region-by-region basis and provides an estimate of the optimum time when the PS concentration will be maximum in the ROI. The advantage of the algorithm lies in the fact that it predicts the time in advance as it takes only a sample of initial data points (~12 min) as input. The optimum time calculated using the algorithm estimated a maximum dose that was only 0.58 ± 1.92% under the true maximum dose compared to a mean dose error of 39.85 ± 6.45% if a 1 h optimal light deliver time was assumed for patients with different efflux rate constants of the PS, assuming they have the same plasma function. Therefore, if the uptake values of PS for the blood and the ROI is known for only first 12 minutes, the entire curve along with the optimum time of light radiation can be predicted with the help of this algorithm.
Axial rotation in rat embryos: morphological analysis and microsurgical study on the role of the allantois

In mouse and rat embryos, the embryonic disc develops within a cup-shaped "egg cylinder" and consists of an inner layer of ectoderm and an outer layer of endoderm. Because of this configuration, the embryo first develops in a dorsally flexed position and then undergoes "axial rotation" to a ventrally flexed position. In the present study, we first analyzed the morphological process of axial rotation in rat embryos using novel reference axes set in the egg cylinder that remained invariant during the process. Our new perspective allowed us to demonstrate that the process consists of three movements which start at different stages of development: twisting of the upper body at stage 12/s7-8, twisting of the middle body at stage 13/s11-12, and twisting of the lower body (so called "tail") at stage 14/s15-16. Axial rotation is an interesting developmental event not only because it is such a dynamic process but also because it is one of the earliest morphological signs of body asymmetry. This asymmetry is strongly biased in that the tail almost always finishes up on the right side of the embryo for reasons that are still unknown. In the second part of the study, we performed microsurgical experiments to extend our previous finding that removal of the allantois results in random determination of tail sidedness. We demonstrated that an allantois transplanted from another embryo can prevent this abnormal sidedness in an embryos whose allantois had been removed and that transecting the allantois did not lead to abnormal tail sidedness. A possible explanation is that the allantois produces a chemical factor that controls tail sidedness.
Anaphylaxis to raw potato.

Background Potato allergy has been described rarely, generally in relation to the Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS). Adults with seasonal allergic rhinitis have been reported in whom peeling of raw potatoes causes oculonasal symptoms, wheezing, and contact urticaria. Skin testing with fresh fruits and vegetables has been recommended in cases of OAS, although the sensitivity of commercial potato extract is reportedly equal to that of fresh potato. Case Report This report describes a 4-year-old with raw potato-induced anaphylaxis. He rapidly developed urticaria, angioedema, respiratory distress, vomiting and diarrhea after biting into a raw potato that was being used for painting in preschool. Review of systems is significant for viral-induced wheezing, but no symptoms suggestive of seasonal allergic rhinitis were evident. His mother has a history of seasonal allergic rhinitis and contact urticaria with raw potato. Skin testing to commercial potato extract was negative and skin testing to fresh potato by the prick + prick method was markedly positive. Skin testing to birch tree was negative. An open challenge to a small amount of cooked potato was negative. Food challenge to raw potato was not considered indicated in this case of immediate anaphylaxis to a single food. Conclusions This patient had clinical and skin test reactivity to raw and uncooked potato in the absence of OAS. The patient will be followed for the development of seasonal allergic rhinitis.
Design and Evaluation of Dihydroxytetrahydro-1H-pyrrolo[2,1-c]- [1,4]benzothiazines as Conformationally Restricted Transition-State Inhibitors of β-Ribosidases

The preparation of three new chiral thiazines from ribose is described. Two of these are dihydroxytetrahydro-1H-pyrrolo[2,1-c][1,4]benzothiazines with iminopentitol substructures corresponding to the l-lyxo and d-ribo configurations. They were designed to present a favorable transition-state mimic for the inhibition of ribosidases. This new thiazine class opens the way to the development of new inhibitors to carbohydrate processing enzymes of therapeutic importance such as nucleoside hydrolases and purine nucleoside phosphorylases.
Apparent use efficiency of nitrogen and phosphorus from litter applied to bermudagrass.

More than 80% of broiler (chicken, Gallus gallus domesticus) litter produced annually is applied as a plant nutrient source, particularly for nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P), to pastures. However, N losses during the process of litter N mineralization limit availability of N to crops. This study determined broiler litter N and P availability and apparent use efficiency (ANUE, APUE) to bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon] during the first year after litter application. Treatments consisted of three litter rates (3.3, 6.6, and 13.2 Mg ha−1), a commercial N fertilizer rate that provided 358 kg N ha−1 as ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3), and an untreated control. Results showed bermudagrass dry-matter (DM) yield increased significantly with increase in litter rate. Commercial N fertilizer produced significantly greater DM yield than 3.3 and 6.6 Mg ha−1 of litter but produced less DM yield than 13.2 Mg ha−1 of litter. The overall average of ANUE from litter was 39% compared to the 59% from fertilizer. The mean litter N av...
Violence or Nonviolence: Which do We Choose?

A large mass of research on violence now exists, yet the utilitarian value of this vast amount of scientific endeavor may be rated as low, comparing it to the levels of violence at all levels abounding in the world today. The author calls for centralizing funding and work on violence at the national level in the United States, perhaps forming a separate National Institute for Violence. In addition to focusing on violence, nonviolence must be studied with more vigor for scientific work in this area to increase in utilitarian value.
5: Surrogate vaginal microbicide use among adolescent women

was not maintained 3 months later. There was no effect of the program on self-esteem. Conclusions: The TOT program appears to improve and sustain adolescents’ knowledge about changing bodies and temporarily influences problematic attitudes regarding cultural attractiveness ideals. A confidential, computer-tailored approach appears to be both effective and satisfactory for adolescent boys and girls. Sources of Support: National Institutes for Health, Grant #5R44 DK061269-03.
A STATus report on DC development

DCs have a vital role in the immune system by recognizing exogenous or self-antigens and eliciting appropriate stimulatory or tolerogenic adaptive immune responses. DCs also contribute to human autoimmune disease and, when depleted, to immunodeficiency. Moreover, DCs are being explored for potential use in clinical therapies including cancer treatment. Thus, understanding the molecular mechanisms that regulate DCs is crucial to improving treatments for human immune disease and cancer. DCs constitute a heterogeneous population including plasmacytoid (pDC) and classic (cDC) subsets; however, the majority of DCs residing in lymphoid organs and peripheral tissues in steady state share common progenitor populations, originating with hematopoietic stem cells. Like other hematopoietic lineages, DCs require extracellular factors including cytokines, as well as intrinsic transcription factors, to control lineage specification, commitment, and maturation. Here, we review recent findings on the roles for cytokines and cytokine-activated STAT transcription factors in DC subset development. We also discuss how cytokines and STATs intersect with lineage-regulatory transcription factors and how insight into the molecular basis of human disease has revealed transcriptional regulators of DCs. Whereas this is an emerging area with much work remaining, we anticipate that knowledge gained by delineating cytokine and transcription factor mechanisms will enable a better understanding of DC subset diversity, and the potential to manipulate these important immune cells for human benefit.
Dysmenorrhoea and Prostaglandins: Pharmacological and Therapeutic Considerations

Primary dysmenorrhoea is characterised by painful menstrual cramps which appear to have no macroscopically identifiable pelvic pathology. 50% of postpubescent females suffer from dysmenorrhoea, and 10% are incapacitated for 1 to 3 days each month. Many of these patients have an increased synthesis of prostaglandins in their endometrial tissue with increased prostaglandin release in the menstrual fluid. The increased amount of prostaglandins induces incoordinate hyperactivity of the uterine muscle resulting in uterine ischaemia and pain. Recent clinical and laboratory studies have shown that many of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, naproxen, flufenamic acid, mefenamic acid and indomethacin are capable of relieving primary dysmenorrhoea. These drugs are inhibitors of the prostaglandin synthetase enzymes which are necessary for prostaglandin biosynthesis. Thus, with ibuprofen it has been shown that clinical relief of the dysmenorrhoeic symptoms accompanies the reduction of menstrual fluid prostaglandins. With the oral contraceptive pill there is good relief of primary dysmenorrhoea, significant decrease in menstrual fluid prostaglandins, but no reduction in menstrual fluid volume; this suggests that the reduction in prostaglandins is secondary to the inhibition of endometrial growth and development. In some forms of secondary dysmenorrhoea elevated prostaglandin levels have been implicated. However, the evidence is less conclusive for dysmenorrhoea secondary to endometriosis and uterine myomas than for dysmenorrhoea associated with intrauterine devices. With the intrauterine device, prostaglandin synthetase inhibitors such as flufenamic acid, ibuprofen and naproxen are able not only to relieve dysmenorrhoea but also to reduce menstrual blood loss to normal levels. Thus, the use of appropriately selected prostaglandin synthetase inhibitors can offer effective relief from the miseries of some types of dysmenorrhoea with subsequent restoration of normal daily activities.
Characteristic Impedance of the Shielded-Strip Transmission Line

Simple formulas are given for the characteristic impedance of a transmission line consisting of a conducting strip of rectangular cross section centered between parallel conducting plates at ground potential. The formulas agree to within 1.2 per cent with an exact formula for a zero thickness strip. In the case of finite thickness up to a quarter of the plate spacing, the formulas are expected to be at least that accurate. A family of characteristic impedance curves given in this paper should prove useful to the design engineer.
Simulation of Large-Scale HPC Architectures

The Extreme-scale Simulator (xSim) is a recently developed performance investigation toolkit that permits running high-performance computing (HPC) applications in a controlled environment with millions of concurrent execution threads. It allows observing parallel application performance properties in a simulated extreme-scale HPC system to further assist in HPC hardware and application software co-design on the road toward multi-petascale and exascale computing. This paper presents a newly implemented network model for the xSim performance investigation toolkit that is capable of providing simulation support for a variety of HPC network architectures with the appropriate trade-off between simulation scalability and accuracy. The taken approach focuses on a scalable distributed solution with latency and bandwidth restrictions for the simulated network. Different network architectures, such as star, ring, mesh, torus, twisted torus and tree, as well as hierarchical combinations, such as to simulate network-on-chip and network-on-node, are supported. Network traffic congestion modeling is omitted to gain simulation scalability by reducing simulation accuracy.
A Life Course Perspective on Child Health, Cognition and Occupational Skill Qualifications in Adulthood: Evidence from a British Cohort

Existing research rarely examines the social consequences of poor childhood health from a longitudinal perspective. Using data from the British National Child Development Study, I follow a cohort from before birth through middle age to examine whether children's health limitations before and during the educational process predict occupational skill in mid-adulthood, and whether negative consequences are strongest for children in persistently poor health. I also examine whether differences in achievement explain the observed associations, and at what point during the schooling process performance begins to play a large explanatory role. Poor health is strongly negatively related to qualifications in adulthood, particularly for children in persistently poor health. These associations are largely explained by differences in performance early in children's academic careers, before the first important transition point. The relationship between prenatal maternal smoking and mid-adulthood qualifications is more persistent. This article demonstrates that a static conceptualization of childhood health is inadequate to fully understand the dynamic process through which social status and health over the course of childhood have long-run consequences for the adult life course.
Implementation fidelity: the experience of the Adolescent Substance Abuse Prevention Study

While researchers have developed more effective programs and strategies to prevent the initiation of substance use and increasingly communities are delivering these interventions, determining the degree to which they are delivered as they were designed remains a significant research challenge. In the past several years, more attention has been given to implementation issues during the various stages of program development and diffusion. This paper presents the findings from a substudy of an evaluation of a newly designed middle and high school substance abuse prevention program, Take Charge of Your Life delivered by local Drug Abuse Resistance Education officer instructors. A key aspect of the study was to determine the extent to which implementation fidelity, using the measures of content coverage and appropriate instructional strategy, was associated with improvement in the program mediators of realistic normative beliefs, understanding the harmful effects of substance use and the acquisition of decision-making and resistance skills. Although it was found that higher fidelity was associated with better scores on some of the mediators, this was not a consistent finding. The mixed results are discussed within the context of the lesson activities themselves.