cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Flexible work schedules and family time allocation: Assessment of a system change on individual behavior using self-report logs.

This study assessed the effects of a flexible work schedule (“flextime”) on time allocated to children and spouse by federal workers. Direct behavioral observations of family, home, and work functions were precluded because of the cost involved in observing many people for long periods of time. In order to obtain detailed individual data, participants completed hour-by-hour activity logs a mean of twice per week for 35 weeks. Participants received prior training on log completion, initial feedback on the detail of their log entries, and were prompted to complete the forms. Four different procedures assessing reliability indicated a corroboration rate of 80% with other sources. Log data were reliably reduced to nine categories such as “PM time with children” and 37 subcategories such as “time at dinner.” The log data were presented in time-series form and the use of a quasi-experimental design showed that participants who altered their work schedule were able to spend more PM time with their families. The log data demonstrated that the capacity exists to assess closely the effects of large-scale changes at a micro-behavioral level, but other methods are needed to make complex self-reporting systems less expensive and more capable of immediate monitoring of the intervention's effects.
Bilateral coccidioidal epididymitis.

A rare case of coccidioidomycosis of epididymis is presented, adding to the 8 cases reported in the English literature since 1950.
Abstract 4147: Xanthohumol decreases Notch1 expression and cell growth in human epithelial ovarian cancer cell lines

Epithelial ovarian cancer is the most lethal of all gynecologic malignancies in the United States with the majority of cases detected with advanced disease. Therefore, it is critical that novel therapies be developed that can effectively treat ovarian cancer. Notch1 is a transmembrane receptor that upon activation is cleaved by gamma-secretase resulting in Notch1 intracellular domain (NICD) translocation to the nucleus where it heterodimerizes with the transcription factor CBF-1 converting CBF-1 from a transcriptional repressor to a transcriptional activator via recruitment of coactivators. Deregulation of the Notch pathway has been observed in cancers such as T cell lymphoblastic leukemia, pancreatic, and breast. In addition, it has been shown that NICD is expressed in ovarian cancer cell lines and ovarian tumors. Xanthohumol, a prenylated chalcone derived from hops used in brewing beer, has been shown to exhibit anti-cancer properties. Since xanthohumol has been shown to inhibit cancer cell growth and invasion, we hypothesized that the Notch1 signaling pathway is suppressed by xanthohumol leading to decreased cell growth. OVCAR3 and SKOV3 are human epithelial ovarian cancer cell lines that express high levels of NICD. These cells were treated with increasing doses of xanthohumol, and cell growth was measured by 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay on days 0, 2, 4, and 6. In addition, protein lysates were isolated on days 2 and 4 of treatment, detected by western blot using a NICD primary antibody, and protein expression was evaluated by densitometry. These treatments resulted in decreased cell growth when measured by MTT assay. In addition, when analyzed by western blot, there was a decrease in NICD protein expression. In conclusion, xanthohumol was a potent inhibitor of ovarian cancer cell growth, and our results suggest that xanthohumol is affecting the Notch pathway. Therefore, it is essential that further investigation into the role that xanthohumol has on the Notch pathway be pursued. These outcomes could prompt the use of xanthohumol as a potential chemotherapeutic agent in ovarian cancer patients who do not respond long term to standard chemotherapy. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4147.
Does Isolated Flat Epithelial Atypia on Vacuum‐assisted Breast Core Biopsy Require Surgical Excision?

To determine whether flat epithelial atypia (FEA) found in isolation on large core vacuum-assisted biopsy (CNB) requires surgical excision. After Institutional Review Board approval, pathology reports of all patients who underwent CNB from January 1, 2005 to December 31, 2010 were reviewed. All patients with reports of isolated FEA without other atypia or in situ or invasive carcinoma were identified. Patient age, history, target on imaging, biopsy modality, and residual target post CNB noted. Histology of CNB's (blinded to surgical outcome) and subsequent surgical excisions were reviewed by a dedicated breast pathologist. Only cases with confirmed isolated FEA on review were used for data analysis. Of 2,556 CNB's performed over 6 years, 37 (1.4%) had isolated FEA confirmed on review, comprising our study population. Thirty (81%) had biopsy for calcifications on mammography and 7 (19%) for mass or non-mass like enhancement on magnetic resonance imaging. There were no US guided CNBs that met our inclusion criteria. 29 (78.4%) underwent surgical excision, 6 (16.2%) had imaging follow-up, and 2 (5.4%) were lost to follow-up. Of the 29 with surgery, 2 (6.9%) had "upgrade" to low-grade in situ carcinoma (1 ductal and 1 pleomorphic lobular), 5 (17.2%) had "change in diagnosis" to other atypia (ADH/ALH), 15 (51.7%) had additional FEA and 7 (24.2%) had benign tissue without atypia. Both "upgraded" cases had residual microcalcifications on imaging following CNB. There were no upgrades to invasive cancers. In our study, none of 29 with isolated FEA on CNB had invasive cancer on surgical excision. If there are residual microcalcifications or residual lesion after a CNB that shows isolated FEA, excision is warranted, due to the possibility of other atypia (ADH/ALH [17.2%] or DCIS [5.4%]). If there are no residual microcalcifications following CNB, imaging follow-up as an alternative to surgery may be a reasonable option.
SOCIAL ANXIETY AND TRAINING IN NEUROLINGUISTIC PROGRAMMING

The Liebowitz Social Phobia Scale measured the effect of training on social anxiety responses of 28 adults prior to and following a 21-day residential training, and at 6 mo. follow-up. Significant reductions posttraining and at follow-up were evident in the mean self-reported global scale scores on fear and avoidance behavior in social situations. The item scores, aggregated to reflect the situational domains of formal and informal speaking, being observed by others, and assertion, showed significant and continuing reduction from posttraining through follow-up. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that this training may be associated with reduced responses to social anxiety, but as there was no formal control group, pretest scores from another study were used. Interpretation is limited.
Epidermal growth factor induces PC12 cell differentiation in the presence of the protein kinase inhibitor K-252a

The protein kinase inhibitors K-252a and K-252b have been shown earlier to block the actions of nerve growth factor and other neurotrophins and, at lower concentrations, to selectively potentiate neurotrophin-3 actions. In the present study we show that K-252a, but not K-252b, enhances epidermal growth factor (EGF)-and basic fibroblast growth factor (BFGF)-induced neurite outgrowth of PC12 cells at higher concentrations than required for neurotrophin inhibition. In parallel, tyrosine phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (Erks) elicited by EGF of bFGF was also increased in the presence of K-252a, and this signal was prolonged for 6 h. EGF- and bFGF-induced phosphorylation of phospholipase C-gamma 1 were not changed. The effect of K-252a on Erks was resistant to chronic treatment with phorbol ester, indicating that protein kinase C is not involved in this potentiation. In partial contrast to the actions of K-252a, the neurotrophin-3-potentiating effect of K-252b was accompanied by an increase in tyrosine phosphorylation of the Erks and of phospholipase C-gamma 1. Finally, although K-252a alone did not induce neurite outgrowth or tyrosine phosphorylation of Erks or phospholipase C-gamma 1, this compound alone stimulated phosphatidylinositol hydrolysis. Our findings identify activities of K-252a besides the direct interaction with neurotrophin receptors and suggest that a K-252a-sensitive protein kinase or phosphatase might be involved in signal transduction of EGF and bFGF. Our results are further compatible with the hypothesis that sustained activation of Erks may be important in PC12 differentiation.
Ultra low-threshold monolithic micro-Raman laser

We demonstrate a Raman laser integrated onto a silicon microchip, using an ultra-high-Q toroidal microcavity. Low pump power thresholds (210 microwatts) and Raman output powers of 1.2 milliWatts were obtained at 1650 nm.
Geometrical constraint on shadowing in rough surfaces

In modeling the thermal emissivity of a rough surface, such as wind-driven waves on a lake or ocean, it is customary to treat the surface as a collection of individual facets, each of which is flat but tilted with respect to the horizontal. By considering a one-dimensional cross-section through the rough surface, the authors derive a purely geometrical constraint on the statistical distribution of shadowed facet slopes that should be satisfied by any model of surface emissivity that includes the effect of self-shadowing. The purpose is not to develop a single shadowing model, but to provide a condition that any valid shadowing model should satisfy. Although the emphasis of the presentation is theoretical, some practical ramifications will also be discussed.
Pain management in the ambulatory surgical population

Effective postoperative analgesia is a fundamental goal of patient management in the ambulatory surgery setting. There is a physiologic, psychological, and economic cost to unrelieved pain in the postoperative patient. Understanding (1) the individual experience of pain, (2) common barriers to effective pain management, (3) the concept of balanced analgesia, (4) the types and modes of action of various analgesics available to the ambulatory population, and (5) the importance of thorough and organized means of pain assessment will help the perianesthesia nurse optimize analgesia for the postoperative patient. Severe postoperative pain continues to be a problem in ambulatory patients once they are discharged to the home environment. This article looks at fundamental concepts in pain management and integrates these ideas into a comprehensive strategy for the management of postoperative pain in the ambulatory patient. © 2001 by American Society of PeriAnesthesia Nurses.
Enhanced wet air oxidation of sediment contaminated with PCBs.

Abstract Wet air oxidation (WAO) is investigated as a method of treating river sediments contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Aqueous slurries containing 2.5% (w/w) sediment were oxidized with oxygen in a one liter, high‐pressure, batch reactor at temperatures up to 2S0°C. Concentrations of PCBs adsorbed on the sediment and reactor surfaces and dissolved in the water and gas phases after oxidation were determined by high‐resolution gas chromatography. Results indicate that no significant wet oxidation of PCBs in sediment slurries occurs for temperatures at or below 250°C. However, during reactor heat‐up, significant degradation of PCBs occurred at high temperature regions near the reactor wall even when bulk fluid temperature was quite low. A variety of amendments were tested to determine their effect on PCB oxidation. These amendments included hydrogen peroxide, a readily degraded organic compound (phenol), and homogeneous copper catalyst. Only hydrogen peroxide addition resulted in a sign...
Using computer-based interactive imagery strategies for designing instructional anatomy programs.

In an effort to design and implement effective anatomy educational programs, this study was conducted to evaluate students' perceptions toward using two computer-based self-directed instructional modules (e.g., digestive system and canine skull) that were designed utilizing interactive imagery strategy for teaching and learning veterinary anatomy. Sixty-eight freshmen veterinary students and one graduate student participated in this study. Open-ended and close-ended questionnaires were administered to evaluate the utilization of computer-based interactive imagery strategy in developing anatomy instructional programs, and to collect data about the students' perceptions toward the use of interactive images in teaching and learning of anatomy. Means and standard deviations were calculated and analyzed for close-ended items. The open-ended questionnaire items were analyzed to identify shared patterns or themes in the students' experience after using the two instructional anatomy modules. Students reported positive attitudes toward the interactive imagery strategy used in the development of computer-based anatomy modules. Based on our findings, this study outlines the characteristics of effective instructional images that will serve as guidelines for the preparation and selection of anatomical images, as well as, how to utilize these images to develop computer-based instructional anatomy programs. Students perceived interactive imagery as an effective design strategy that helped them learn anatomical concepts. Clin. Anat. 18:68–76, 2005. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Aortopulmonary Septal Defect: Hemodynamics, Angiography, and Operation

Twenty-five patients with malseptation of the aortopulmonary trunk resulting in aortopulmonary septal defect (window) were evaluated in a unique combined surgical series assembled from two institutions participating in the USA-USSR Health Exchange Program. Typical aortopulmonary septal defect or window (type I) with the connection between the ascending aorta and main pulmonary artery was found in 21 patients. Four had a more cephalad defect (type II) between the ascending aorta and the origin of the right pulmonary artery. Hemodynamics were the consequence of a large left-to-right shunt (mean ratio of pulmonary to systemic flow, 3.0) with right ventricular hypertension (mean right ventricular pressure, 86 mm Hg) and increased pulmonary vascular resistance (mean, 7.4 U) (mean ratio of pulmonary to systemic vascular resistance, 0.33). Angiography may provide patterns that allow preoperative distinction between the two types of aortopulmonary septal defect and provide information important in planning the details of corrective operation. Operative techniques included ligation, direct suture, and patch closure of the aortopulmonary septal defect. The best method appeared to be patch closure by the transaortic approach; real and potential problems were associated with other techniques.
Effects of Spatial Filtering on Sound Radiation from a Subsonic Axisymmetric Jet

The effects of spatial filtering on the sound generated from a subsonic axisymmetric jet were investigated by filtering near-field flow variables obtained from a direct numerical simulation. This is useful to assess the accuracy of the large-eddy simulation (LES) technique for predicting aerodynamically generated sound. Lighthill's acoustic analogy in the frequency domain was employed to predict the far-field sound. The direct numerical simulation results were in excellent agreement with recently published results for the same jet (Mitchell, B. E., Lele, S. K., and Moin, P., Direct Computation of the Sound Generated by Vortex Pairing in an Axisymmetric Jet, Journal of Fluid Mechanics, Vol. 383, 1999, pp. 113-142). To handle the effects of domain truncation errors on the Lighthill source term, a windowing function was employed. Predictions of the far-field sound using Lighthill's acoustic analogy were in good agreement with the simulation results at low frequencies, even for shallow angles from the jet axis. Significant discrepancies were observed at high frequencies. It was found that low-frequency sound was dominant and the effects of filtering on the low-frequency sound were negligible. In addition, the sound levels computed from both the filtered and unfiltered source terms were in good agreement with the directly computed results. Filtering reduced the small-scale fluctuations in the near-field and, as expected, decreased the magnitude of the source term for the high-frequency sound. A model was developed and tested to predict the subgrid contribution to the Lighthill tensor in cases where, as in LES, only relatively large-scale flow structures are resolved.
Linear Technique for Discrimination of Optically Coded Waveforms Using Optical Frequency Combs

We have demonstrated a novel coherent optical detection architecture that serves as a matched filter and successfully discriminates between various encoded optical waveforms with high confidence. The waveforms are produced by encoding the spectral phase of an optical frequency comb with codes from a Walsh-Hadamard set. The encoded optical waveforms are decoded with a coherent detection technique implemented using an optical frequency comb as a set of local oscillators, an interferometer, and a pair of differential balanced photodetectors. The use of only linear optical devices in the receiver results in a higher sensitivity compared to the use of nonlinear optical thresholding and gating techniques. Decoding is demonstrated at power levels of ~ 25 μW, which are much lower than previously reported. Possible applications of the receiver architecture include laser radar and optical communications in an optical code-division multiple access network.
Delta opioid receptors: reflexive, defensive and vocal affective responses in female rats.

Ultrasonic vocalizations may be an expression of the affective pain response in laboratory animals. The present experiment compares the effects of morphine to the delta agonist, DPDPE (d-Pen2,d-Pen5 enkephalin) on a range of reflexive, behavioral and affective responses during an aggressive interaction. In experiment 1, naive female Long-Evans rats received morphine (0, 1, 3, 6, 10 µg ICV), or DPDPE (0, 30, 60, 100 µg ICV). In experiment 2, female rats were treated with naltrindole (1.0 mg/kg IP) 20 min before DPDPE (0, 60, 100 µg ICV). The following endpoints were measured: (1) latency to tail flick in response to heat stimuli; (2) high (33–65 kHz) and low (20–32 kHz) frequency ultrasonic and audible vocalizations; (3) defensive behavior; and (4) motoric activity. Following a brief exposure to attack, rats were threatened by the aggressor but protected from further attack by a large, wire mesh cage, thereby allowing for continued behavioral and vocal measurement without the risk of physical injury; video and audio recordings were made during the attack and then during a portion of the protected encounter (2 min). Morphine suppressed pain reactions varying in complexity from a spinal reflex, to an organized escape reaction, to an affective vocal response. The delta agonist, DPDPE, attenuated high frequency ultrasonic calling and tail flick responding. Defensive behaviors were also modulated by DPDPE at doses that had no effect on walking or rearing, indicating behavioral specificity. By contrast, doses of morphine that decreased defensive upright and escape also decreased motor activity. In female rats, morphine and DPDPE share a common profile of effects on a range of functional end-points, but DPDPE appears to modulate more selectively the reactions related to aversiveness without exerting sedative effects. These data demonstrate a possible physiological role for delta receptors in affective and defensive reactions.
Boundary Layer Energy Transport and Cumulus Development over a Heated Mountain : An Observational Study

Abstract Aircraft and surface measurements of the boundary layer transport of mass and moisture toward an isolated, heated mountain are presented. The data were collected around the Santa Catalina Mountains in Arizona, 20–30 km in diameter, during the North American monsoon, on days with weak winds and cumulus congestus to cumulonimbus development over the mountain. Flights in the boundary layer around the mountain and surface station data indicate that mountain-scale anabatic surface wind generally develops shortly after sunrise, peaking at ∼1 m s−1 in strength close to solar noon. There is some evidence for a toroidal heat island circulation, with divergence in the upper boundary layer. The aircraft data and mainly the diurnal surface temperature and pressure patterns confirm that this circulation is driven by surface heating over the mountain. Three case studies suggest that growth spurts of orographic cumulus and cumulonimbus are not preceded by enhanced mountain-scale mass convergence near the surfac...
Erosion/redeposition modeling and calculations for carbon

Abstract Several key aspects of carbon erosion/redeposition in fusion devices have been examined. These include the effects of an oblique magnetic field geometry plasma sheath on ion impingement and sputtering, and the effect of surface hydrogen buildup on sputtering. The calculations use a version of the MEASTRI hydrogen implantation code and a cloud-in-cell type sheath code. Time dependent erosion calculations have been made for the TFTR bumper limiter, using the REDEP erosion/redeposition code with updated sheath and sputtering models. The computed plasma carbon content during a TFTR limiter “deconditioning” run and for a “supershot” beam heating case is similar to measured values. The calculations predict that depletion of the near surface graphite hydrogen concentration enhances the self and hydrogen sputtering coefficients. This mechanism provides an explanation for the larger Z- effective values observed on TFTR immediately after limiter conditioning.
Cell specific-chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan expression during CNS morphogenesis in the chick embryo.

There is increasing evidence that proteoglycans, particularly chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs), are integral components in the assembly of the extracellular matrix during early stages of histogenesis. The differential expression of several CSPGs in the developing CNS has raised questions on their origin, phenotype (chemical and structural characteristics), regulation of expression and function. The S103L monoclonal antibody has been an invaluable specific reagent to identify and study a large and abundant CSPG in embryonic chick brain. In the present study we demonstrate that during embryogenesis of the chick CNS, the S103L CSPG (B-aggrecan) is synthesized by neurons of all major neuronal cell types but not by astrocytes, is developmentally regulated, and is associated predominantly with neuronal somata, suggesting that neuronal-specific regulatory mechanisms control the expression of the S103L CSPG in culture. Neurons also exhibit differential expression of glycosaminoglycan type (i.e., KS) and sulfation patterns on different CSPGs when compared to astrocytes, meningial cells or chondrocytes, implying the existence of additional, cell type-specific modes of regulation of the final CSPG phenotype (chemical and structural posttranslational characteristics). A specific temporal pattern of expression of the S103L-CSPG was observed which may contribute to conditions that induce or stabilize specific cell phenotypes during CNS development. In contrast, the other major CSPG in the CNS recognized by the HNK-1 antibody, is synthesized by all cell types of different cell lineages over the entire embryonic period, suggesting a more global cell maintenance function for this CSPG.
Bidirectional interference between speech and postural stability in individuals with Parkinson's disease

Because people frequently talk while engaged in other activities, and because Parkinson's disease (PD) is known to diminish multi-tasking performance, this study examined dual task interference between speaking and postural stability in nine individuals with PD, seven age-matched, and 10 healthy young controls. Participants repeated a target utterance and performed a rise to toes task in both single and dual task conditions. Diphthong transitions were measured from audio recordings and postural variables reflecting planning, coordination, and stability were derived from a multi-camera motion capture system and force plate recordings. Thus, sensitive measures of both speech and postural control were obtained. The group with PD performed more poorly than both control groups for the isolated postural task, but their single task speech measures did not differ from the controls, in spite of listener ratings which indicated mild-to-moderate dysarthria severity. The group with PD showed evidence of bidirectional dual task interference in that there were reduced diphthong extents and slopes along with smaller, slower, and less stable postural movements. These results indicate that concurrent performance of speech and a challenging postural control task impairs speech and postural stability in persons with PD and may result in greater risk during daily activities.
Phytanic acid must be activated to phytanoyl-CoA prior to its α-oxidation in rat liver peroxisomes

alpha-Oxidation of the branched-chain fatty acid, phytanic acid, is defective in patients with Refsum's disease, the disorders of peroxisome biogenesis (e.g., Zellweger syndrome), and in rhizomelic chondrodysplasia punctata. 3H-Release from [2,3-3H]phytanic acid, which is impaired in cultured skin fibroblasts from these patients, was investigated in rat liver peroxisomes. Cofactors necessary for optimal 3H-release, ATP, Mg2+, and coenzyme A, were also necessary for optimal acyl-CoA synthetase activity, suggesting that the substrate for 3H-release might be phytanoyl-CoA. 5,8,11,14-Eicosatetraynoic acid (ETYA), an inhibitor of long-chain acyl-CoA synthetase activity, blocked phytanoyl-CoA synthesis as well as 3H-release from [2,3-3H]phytanic acid in a dose-dependent manner. However, this inhibitor had little effect on 3H-release from [2,3-3H]phytanoyl-CoA. Tetradecylglycidic acid (TDGA) inhibited 3H-release from [2,3-3H]phytanic acid in peroxisomal but not in mitochondrial fractions from rat liver. This agent inhibited 3H-release from [2,3-3H]phytanic acid and [2,3-3H]phytanoyl-CoA equally. In contrast to ETYA, which appeared to decrease 3H-release as a consequence of synthetase inhibition, TDGA appeared to act directly on the enzyme catalyzing 3H-release. This enzyme was partially purified from rat liver. The purified enzyme, which did not possess phytanoyl-CoA synthetase activity, catalyzed tritium release from [2,3-3H]phytanoyl-CoA. This enzyme catalyzed 3H-release from [2,3-3H]phytanic acid only if a source of phytanoyl-CoA synthetase was present. We conclude that in rat liver peroxisomes, phytanic acid must be activated to its coenzyme A derivative prior to subsequent alpha-oxidation.
Development of a hyperthermal oxygen‐atom generator

A source that is compact, durable and mounts on a standard ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) flange has been developed for the generation of hyperthermal oxygen atoms. In this source oxygen atoms permeate through an Ag membrane held at 500 o C and are then emitted toward the target from the vacuum side of the membrane by electro-stimulated desorption. The current prototype model generate useable O-atom fluxes of ∼ 10 12 atoms cm -2 s -1 , and future modifications should increase this flux by 1-3 orders of magnitude
Exploring the role of CHI3L1 in "pre-metastatic" lungs of mammary tumor-bearing mice.

Elevated levels of chitinase-3-like-1 (CHI3L1) are associated with poor prognosis, shorter recurrence-free intervals and low survival in breast cancer patients. Breast cancer often metastasizes to the lung. We hypothesized that molecules expressed in the “pre-metastatic” lung microenvironment could support the newly immigrant tumor cells by providing growth and angiogenic factors. Macrophages are known to play an important role in tumor growth by releasing pro-angiogenic molecules. Using mouse mammary tumor models, we have previously shown that during neoplastic progression both the mammary tumor cells and splenic macrophages from tumor-bearing mice express higher levels of CHI3L1 compared to normal control mice. However, the role of CHI3L1 in inducing angiogenesis by macrophages at the pulmonary microenvironment to support newly arriving breast cancer cells is not yet known. In this study, we determined the expression of CHI3L1 in bronchoalveolar lavage macrophages and interstitial macrophages in regulating angiogenesis that could support the growth of newly immigrant mammary tumor cells into the lung. Here we show that in vitro treatment of pulmonary macrophages with recombinant murine CHI3L1 resulted in enhanced expression of pro-angiogenic molecules including CCL2, CXCL2, and MMP-9. We and others have previously shown that inhibition of CHI3L1 decreases the production of angiogenic molecules. In this study, we explored if in vivo administration of chitin microparticles has an effect on the expression of CHI3L1 and pro-angiogenic molecules in the lungs of mammary tumor-bearing mice. We show that treatment with chitin microparticles decreases the expression of CHI3L1 and pro-angiogenic molecules in the “metastatic” lung. These studies suggest that targeting CHI3L1 may serve as a potential therapeutic agent to inhibit angiogenesis and thus possibly tumor growth and metastasis.
Ligand preferences of kringle 2 and homologous domains of human plasminogen: canvassing weak, intermediate, and high-affinity binding sites by 1H-NMR.

The interaction of various small aliphatic and aromatic ionic ligands with the human plasminogen (HPg) recombinant kringle 2 (r-K2) domain has been investigated by 1H-NMR spectroscopy at 500 MHz. The results are compared against ligand-binding properties of the homologous, lysine-binding HPg kringle 1 (K1), kringle 4 (K4), and kringle 5 (K5). The investigated ligands include the ω-aminocarboxylic acids 4-aminobutyric acid (4-ABA), 5-aminopentanoic acid (5-APA), 6-aminohexanoic acid (6-AHA), 7-aminoheptanoic acid (7-AHA), lysine and arginine derivatives with free and blocked α-amino and/or carboxylate groups, and a number of cyclic analogs, zwitterions of similar size such as trans-(aminomethyl)cyclohexanecarboxylic acid (AMCHA) and p-benzylaminesulfonic acid (BASA), and the nonzwitterions benzylamine and benzamidine. Equilibrium association constant (Ka) values were determined from 1H-NMR ligand titration profiles. Among the aliphatic linear ligands, 5-APA (Ka ∼ 3.4 mM-1) shows the strongest interaction w...
Development of brainstem 5-HT1A receptor-binding sites in serotonin-deficient mice

The sudden infant death syndrome is associated with a reduction in brainstem serotonin 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and 5-HT(1A) receptor binding, yet it is unknown if and how these findings are linked. In this study, we used quantitative tissue autoradiography to determine if post-natal development of brainstem 5-HT(1A) receptors is altered in two mouse models where the development of 5-HT neurons is defective, the Lmx1b(f/f/p) , and the Pet-1⁻/⁻ mouse. 5-HT(1A) receptor agonist-binding sites were examined in both 5-HT-source nuclei (autoreceptors) and in sites that receive 5-HT innervation (heteroreceptors). In control mice between post-natal day (P) 3 and 10, 5-HT(1A) receptor binding increased in several brainstem sites; by P25, there were region-specific increases and decreases, refining the overall binding pattern. In the Lmx1b(f/f/p) and Pet-1⁻/⁻ mice, 5-HT(1A)-autoreceptor binding was significantly lower than in control mice at P3, and remained low at P10 and P25. In contrast, 5-HT(1A) heteroreceptor levels were comparable between control and 5-HT-deficient mice. These data define the post-natal development of 5-HT(1A)-receptor binding in the mouse brainstem. Furthermore, the data suggest that 5-HT(1A)-heteroreceptor deficits detected in sudden infant death syndrome are not a direct consequence of a 5-HT neuron dysfunction nor reduced brain 5-HT levels. To elucidate the developmental relationship between serotonin (5-HT) levels and 5-HT(1A) receptors in the brainstem, we examined 5-HT(1A) binding in two 5-HT-deficient mouse models. In nuclei containing 5-HT neurons, 5-HT(1A) binding was decreased (autoreceptors), while binding was maintained in projection sites (heteroreceptors). Thus, brainstem 5-HT(1A)-heteroreceptor-binding sites do not appear developmentally sensitive to reduced brain 5-HT levels.
Private sector investment in the development of the Bahamas: Lessons learned from successful programme implementation

One of the most significant problems developing nations have faced in recent years has been finding effective ways of implementing development plans and programmes. This is in large part due to the dearth of knowledge about programme implementation, and the lack of attention given to the design of implementation strategies by planners and administrators in third world nations. But, implementation is now becoming a central concern of governments in developing countries and of officials in international funding institutions. Also, development administration theory in the 1980s is likely to have as its dominant focus the improvement of implementation management of development programmes and projects. One way to improve the management of development programmes and projects is to analyse those development projects that have succeeded, identify the factors that appear to influence successful implementation, and disseminate this information as broadly and quickly as possible to relevant administrators and administrative theorists. It is revealing that relatively few studies of this type have been completed. This article outlines the lessons learned from a programme that the Government of the Bahamas is successfully implementing-the encouragement of foreign private sector investment in the Bahamas. The article (a) briefly outlines th'e plan for encouraging foreign investment, (b) describes the basic approaches and techniques the Bahamian Government has learned to use to improve the prospects of implementing this programme, and (c) indicates how this experience may be potentially useful in guiding the implementation of similar programmes in other developing countries.
Bombesin attenuates pre-mRNA splicing of glucocorticoid receptor by regulating the expression of serine-arginine protein p30c (SRp30c) in prostate cancer cells

Although glucocorticoids are frequently administered to patients with hormone refractory prostate cancer, their therapeutic effectiveness is limited by the development of glucocorticoid resistance. The molecular mechanisms of glucocorticoid resistance are unknown but are believed to involve neuropeptide growth factors and cytokines. We examined the functional interaction between bombesin and dexamethasone in PC-3 cells and found that bombesin could act as a survival factor by interfering with dexamethasone-mediated growth inhibition. Because glucocorticoids exert their effects through glucocorticoid receptors (GRs), we measured the expression of GR alpha and GR beta isoforms in the presence of bombesin. Western blotting and real time PCR revealed bombesin induced expression of GR beta, but not GR alpha. Because GR isoforms are generated by alternative splicing of a common GR gene, we examined the expression of serine-arginine (SR) proteins involved in alternative splicing, and found that the expression of SRp30 was induced by bombesin in PC-3 cells. To characterize the role of SRp30 in splicing of GR isoforms, siRNAs specific to various SRp30 isoforms were transfected into PC-3 cells. We found that suppression of SRp30c expression by siRNA specifically antagonized bombesin's effect on glucocorticoid-mediated inhibition of PC cells, suggesting that bombesin-induced expression of SRp30c affects GR pre-mRNA splicing, leading to increased GR beta expression and contributing to glucocorticoid resistance in PC cells.
Experimental Economics: Methods, Problems, and Promise

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the grow­ ing importance of experimentation in economic analysis. We present a variety of economic is­ sues that have been explored with laboratory techniques. We also address some common ob­ jections to experimentati on, as well as some of the principal lessons that have been learned.
A Postmodern Perspective on Feminist Gerontology

This article argues the need for research in a feminist gerontology that is informed by postmodern and poststructuralist theories. Feminist gerontology is defined and described as part of a larger movement in the field toward critical gerontology. A brief summary of postmodern thought is followed by questions for researchers in gerontology and guidelines for feminist research which is interpretive, interactive, critical, and change-oriented.
Practical design of intelligent remote-controller with speech-recognition and self-learning function

This study is a creative and initial work focused on designing an intelligent remote-controller with speech-recognition and self-learning function so as to become a part of intelligent system to control all home appliances in the smart living space. First of all, the system was constructed with two parts; one is remote control mechanism with Bluetooth (BT) module mounting on controller module (remote controller) and slave receiver module (on every home appliance), the other is to design the remote controller with speech-recognition and function of self-learning human voice so that people could directly give command to control appliances Therefore, the technique of BT communication and speech-recognition microprocessor became the most important in this study. After implementing the finished projects, the whole system was proved to be great successful and the final result of this research has achieved both National patent authorized by Patent Bureau of Taiwan Economy Ministry, and The First Prize of National Award of Practical Projects Design authorized by Taiwan Education Ministry.
A patient-driven adaptive prediction technique to improve personalized risk estimation for clinical decision support

Objective Competing tools are available online to assess the risk of developing certain conditions of interest, such as cardiovascular disease. While predictive models have been developed and validated on data from cohort studies, little attention has been paid to ensure the reliability of such predictions for individuals, which is critical for care decisions. The goal was to develop a patient-driven adaptive prediction technique to improve personalized risk estimation for clinical decision support. Material and methods A data-driven approach was proposed that utilizes individualized confidence intervals (CIs) to select the most ‘appropriate’ model from a pool of candidates to assess the individual patient's clinical condition. The method does not require access to the training dataset. This approach was compared with other strategies: the BEST model (the ideal model, which can only be achieved by access to data or knowledge of which population is most similar to the individual), CROSS model, and RANDOM model selection. Results When evaluated on clinical datasets, the approach significantly outperformed the CROSS model selection strategy in terms of discrimination (p<1e–14) and calibration (p<0.006). The method outperformed the RANDOM model selection strategy in terms of discrimination (p<1e–12), but the improvement did not achieve significance for calibration (p=0.1375). Limitations The CI may not always offer enough information to rank the reliability of predictions, and this evaluation was done using aggregation. If a particular individual is very different from those represented in a training set of existing models, the CI may be somewhat misleading. Conclusion This approach has the potential to offer more reliable predictions than those offered by other heuristics for disease risk estimation of individual patients.
Age-dependent changes in the heat-stable crystallin, βBp, of the human lens

The present study examined the effects of aging and cataractogenesis on the biochemical properties of the uniquely heat-stable lens crystallin, beta basic principle polypeptide (βBp). Using the techniques of SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and Western-blot immunoassay, we analyzed cortical and nuclear lens sections from normal lenses of individuals aged 0 to 91 years for βBp content in the soluble fraction, and retention of heat stability with aging. In addition, we compared the characteristics of βBp in cataractous lenses with those of normal lenses of approximately the same age. While βBp is synthesized in new cortical cells throughout life, the βBp of the nucleus, which had been laid down early in life, decreased significantly in both absolute concentration and in its proportion of the total soluble protein fraction during the normal aging process. In addition, posttranslational changes in the nuclear soluble βBp result in a gradual loss of approximately 3000 d in the apparent mass of...
Aquapod: Prototype design of an amphibious tumbling robot

As mobile robots decrease in size so does their ability to traverse rough terrain. New forms of locomotion beyond the basic wheel are being explored to overcome this fault. This paper expands on the mechanical design of a previous robot with a high mobility-to-size ratio. To accomplish high mobility the robot uses tumbling as its form of locomotion. By actively involving the body of the robot in the locomotion it can scale larger obstacles and will not get stuck in compliant terrain like similar sized wheeled robots. To accommodate real-world environments the new design has been waterproofed and moreover can be completely submerged in water to operate on a lake or stream floor. Additionally, this robot is equipped with a buoyancy control unit which will allow the robot to either sink or float in water, offering many unique applications in environmental monitoring and surveillance. This paper describes a first generation, radio controlled prototype of the design.
A snc1 endocytosis mutant: phenotypic analysis and suppression by overproduction of dihydrosphingosine phosphate lyase.

The v-SNARE proteins Snc1p and Snc2p are required for fusion of secretory vesicles with the plasma membrane in yeast. Mutation of a methionine-based sorting signal in the cytoplasmic domain of eith...
Bacterial genes induced within the nodule during the Rhizobium–legume symbiosis

During the symbiosis between the bacterium Rhizobium meliloti and plants such as alfalfa, the bacteria elicit the formation of nodules on the roots of host plants. The bacteria infect the nodule, enter the cytoplasm of plant cells and differentiate into a distinct cell type called a bacteroid, which is capable of fixing atmospheric nitrogen. To discover bacterial genes involved in the infection and differentiation stages of symbiosis, we obtained genes expressed at the appropriate time and place in the nodule by identifying promoters that are able to direct expression of the bacA gene, which is required for bacteroid differentiation. We identified 230 fusions that are expressed predominantly in the nodule. Analysis of 23 sequences indicated that only three encode proteins known to be involved in the Rhizobium-legume symbiosis, six encode proteins with homology to proteins not previously associated with symbiosis, and 14 have no significant similarity to proteins of known function. Disruption of a locus that encodes a protein with homology to a cell adhesion molecule led to a defect in the formation of nitrogen-fixing nodules, resulting in an increased number of nitrogen-starved plants. Our isolation of a large number of nodule-expressed genes will help to open the intermediate stages of nodulation to molecular analysis.
Health Disparities Experienced by People with Disabilities in the United States: A Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Study

The Americans with Disabilities Act became law in 1990; since then research has shown that people with disabilities continue to experience barriers to health care. The purpose of this study was to compare utilization of preventive services, chronic disease rates, and engagement in health risk behaviors of participants with differing severities of disabilities to those without disabilities. This study was a secondary analysis of 2010 data collected in the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System national survey in the United States. Rao Chi square test and logistic regression were employed. Participants with disabilities had significantly higher adjusted odds ratios for all chronic diseases, for physical inactivity, obesity and smoking. They were significantly more likely to participate in some preventive services (flu/pneumonia vaccination, HIV test) and significantly less likely to participate in other preventive services (mammogram, Pap test). Our findings suggest that people with disabilities are less able to fully participate in all preventive services offered.
Performing in the Lap and at the Feet of God: Ramleela in Trinidad, 2006–2008

The island of Trinidad is home to one of the world’s largest annual performances of the Hindu epic drama known locally as Ramleela. Far away from their ancestral homeland, Indo-Trinidadians perform their own identities as a Caribbean people in a drama of exile that hauntingly replicates their diasporic experience.
On-the-Fly Fidelity Assessment for Trajectory-Based Circuit Macromodels

Trajectory methods offer an attractive methodology for automated extraction of macromodels from a set of training simulations. A pervasive concern with models based on regression is the lack of certainty about where they fit correctly. The authors show how the unique structure of a scalable trajectory model allows it to monitor the "fidelity" of the fit automatically, and flag where additional model training is warranted. Experimental results demonstrate this self-monitoring ability in practical circuit examples
Rapid Trichloroacetic Acid Extraction and Liquid Chromatography Method for Determination of Nicotinamide in Commercial Cereals

ABSTRACT Determination of niacin in fortified infant and dairy products has been accomplished using a variety of analytical liquid chromatography (LC) methods. Applications of these LC techniques to other food matrices suffer due to the presence of endogenous absorbing peaks at 260 nm that co-chromatograph with the nicotinic acid and nicotinamide vitamers. We have successfully adapted the LC method of Woollard and Indyk for the determination of nicotinamide in reference and commercial cereal products. Unbound nicotinamide in fortified cereal was extracted with 0.6M tri-chloroacetic acid and chromatographed on a C18 reversed-phase column using a mobile phase of 75% methanol and water (pH 2.8, with formic acid) with sodium dioctylsulphosuccinate (0.1%) as the ion-pairing agent. Using Spectral Analysis ChromQuest software, a three-dimensional view showed only nicotinamide under the LC peak. Similarity index spectral matches of nicotinamide standard and the LC peak were ≈100%, indicating the absence of interf...