cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A comparison of type I collagen, fibronectin, and vitronectin in supporting adhesion of mechanically strained osteoblasts

We used an adhesion assay for cells cultured under high dynamic strain to measure human osteoblast-like HOS cell adherence to immobilized type I collagen, fibronectin, and vitronectin. These conditions were designed to model the increased forces present at unstable fractures or loose joint prostheses. At a constant, low protein-coating density (1000 molecules/microm2) and 20% cyclic strain for 24 h, type I collagen, fibronectin, and vitronectin supported 24.6 +/- 2%, 16.7 +/- 3%, and 1.1 +/- 1% adherence, respectively, which paralleled the relative number of integrin-binding sites in each protein. Thus, when the number of available binding sites was limited, strain resistance was proportional to the number of integrin-ligand interactions. In contrast, at high protein-coating densities (> or = 2,500 molecules/microm2), vitronectin supported greater adherence (45.7 +/- 2%) when compared with type I collagen (37 +/- 2%) or fibronectin (34.8 +/- 2%) and directed constitutive expression of osteopontin (OPN), which suggested that there exist discrete signals on vitronectin receptor occupancy that promoted cell adherence and survival under strain. Integrin-mediated binding was necessary for resistance to strain, as evidenced by the low levels of strain resistance observed when cells were adherent in a nonintegrin-dependent manner. These findings support the utilization of at least two distinct mechanisms (i.e., tensegrity and integrin-mediated signal transduction) by HOS cells to remain adherent and viable on exposure to mechanical forces.
Interlist form-class similarity and interference effects

Transfer effects and retroactive inhibition (RI) under the A-B, A-C paradigm were compared where form-class similarity of the responses on List 1 and List 2 was factorially manipulated. The responses on the two lists were either adjectives (A) or letters (L) with form-class similarity being the same (A-A and L-L) or different (A-L and L-A). RI effects were reduced in the A-L and L-A treatments as measured by a modified free-recall (MFR) test or by an associative matching test. However, transfer effects were unrelated to form-class similarity suggesting that the magnitude of transfer and RI do not necessarily co-vary. In addition, RI effects in the A-B, C-D paradigm paralleled those found with the A-B, A-C paradigm.
The microstructural tensile properties and biochemical composition of the bovine distal femoral growth plate

The tensile properties of distal femoral growth plates from 12-month-old cows were determined on uniformly prepared straight bone-growth plate-bone specimens (7 x 7 mm2 in cross-section) from predetermined anatomical sites on the physis. Each specimen was distracted to failure using a computer-controlled servo-hydraulic testing machine at a strain rate of 0.004 s-1. It was found that the exponential constitutive law, using finite deformation formulation for strain, provides an excellent description of the stress-strain behavior of all the specimens up to the point of failure. The ultimate stress and both tangent moduli (i.e., the toe region tangent modulus and the tangent modulus calculated at 75% of ultimate strain) varied with anatomical site. The anterior region was the strongest, followed by the posterior/lateral. The anterior and posterior/lateral regions were also the stiffest, whereas the posterior/medial and center regions were the weakest and most compliant. The bone-growth plate-bone specimen exhibited a low ultimate strain (13.8% +/- 6%) that did not vary significantly throughout the growth plate. This result suggests that disruption of the physis may occur in vivo even at the lower distractions currently recommended for the clinical chondrodiatasis procedure for leg lengthening. The biochemical composition of the growth plate in the anatomical regions correlated well with the tensile properties. There was a greater collagen content in the regions that were the stiffest and strongest. The gross morphology of the growth plate of the bovine distal femur is also described in this study. There is a regular pattern to the undulations of the physis at several dimensional levels. Histologic findings showed that orientation of the hypertrophic cell columns and transphyseal septa are aligned nearly parallel to the longitudinal axis of the diaphyseal shaft. This column orientation is not affected by the undulation of the primary contour of the physis, which at certain locations may be inclined as much as 60 degrees relative to the diaphyseal axis. The orientation of the hypertrophic cell columns appears to be one of the dominant microstructural features influencing the tensile behavior of the bone-growth plate-bone specimens.
Pyrene-functionalized ruthenium nanoparticles as effective chemosensors for nitroaromatic derivatives.

Pyrene-functionalized Ru nanoparticles were synthesized by olefin metathesis reactions of carbene-stabilized Ru nanoparticles with 1-vinylpyrene and 1-allylpyrene (the resulting particles were denoted as Ru═VPy and Ru═APy, respectively) and examined as sensitive chemosensors for the detection of nitroaromatic compounds, such as 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), 2,4-dinitrotoluene (2,4-DNT), 2,6-dinitrotoluene (2,6-DNT), 1-chloro-nitrobenzene (CNB), and nitrobenzene (NB), by their effective quenching of the nanoparticle fluorescence. It was found that the detection sensitivity increased with increasing nitration of the molecules. Additionally, in comparison to monomeric pyrene derivatives, both Ru═VPy and Ru═APy nanoparticles exhibited markedly enhanced performance in the detection of nitroaromatic explosives, most probably as a result of the enhanced collision frequency between the fluorophores and the quencher molecules. Furthermore, Ru═VPy nanoparticles displayed much higher sensitivity (down to the nanomola...
The myth of white superiority in Mississippi Burning

Mississippi Burning purports to tell the story of the civil rights struggle through the investigation of three missing civil rights workers. Although the manifest content of the film appears to be a compassionate representation of the struggles of black Americans in 1964 Mississippi, mythic analysis reveals a much different agenda. The goal of the present essay is twofold. First, it demonstrates how Mississippi Burning is a communication of the myth of white superiority. Myths function to both explain and resolve cultural dilemmas. This film explains how whites have lost power in the United States, and proposes a method for reacquiring it. Second, this essay suggests a revision of the Social Value Model of mythic criticism developed by Rushing and Frentz (1978) and Frentz and Rushing (1978). By incorporating an element of structuralism, the SVM becomes a more useful tool for examining the rhetorical power of myths.
Synthesis and Characterization of Fluorescent 4-Hydroxytamoxifen Conjugates with Unique Antiestrogenic Properties

Membrane receptors for steroid hormones are currently a subject of considerable debate. One approach to selectively target these putative receptors has been to couple ligands to substances that restrict cell permeability. Using this approach, an analogue of the estrogen receptor ligand 4-hydroxytamoxifen was attached to fluorescent dyes with differing degrees of predicted cell permeability. The conjugates bound to estrogen receptor in vitro, but all three conjugates, including one predicted to be cell-impermeable, inhibited estradiol-induced transcriptional activation. Fluorescence microscopy revealed cytoplasmic localization for all three conjugates. We further characterized a 4-hydroxytamoxifen analogue conjugated to a BODIPY fluorophore in breast cancer cell lines. Those experiments suggested a similar, but not identical, mode of action to 4-hydroxytamoxifen, as the fluorescent conjugate was equally effective at inhibiting proliferation of both tamoxifen-sensitive and tamoxifen-resistant breast cancer cell lines. While these findings point to significant complicating factors in designing steroid hormone mimics targeted to the plasma membrane, the results also reveal a possible new direction for designing estrogen receptor modulators.
A decoupled modal analysis for nonlinear dynamics of an orthotropic thin laminate in a simply supported boundary condition subject to thermal mechanical loading

Abstract In this paper, we analyze the nonlinear dynamic response of an orthotropic laminate in a simply supported boundary condition subject to thermal and mechanical loading. The equation of motion for the laminate’s deflection is obtained in a decoupled Duffing equation by means of a Galerkin-type method without Berger’s approximations. The Duffing equation incorporates an arbitrary thermal field, with both the in-plane and transverse temperature variations in a steady-state and a transient state. The formulation indicates that the transverse temperature variation produces an additional pressure load, while the in-plane temperature variation affects the system frequency. The equation allows for characterization of the laminate behaviors in nonlinear thermal buckling, thermal vibration and thermal mechanical response.
Immunolocalization of the C-terminal and N-terminal regions of alpha-A and alpha-B crystallins.

The C-terminal and possibly the N-terminal regions of the alpha crystallins are thought to be involved in the molecular chaperone properties of the protein. To localize these regions within the 13–15 nm aggregate of native alpha crystallin, antisera specific for the C-terminal and N-terminal regions were used together with immunogold and transmission electron microscopy. The results demonstrate that the C-terminal regions of the alpha-A and alpha-B molecules and the N-terminal regions of the alpha-A and/or alpha-B molecules are localized to a central region of the native alpha aggregate. These findings demonstrate that the C-terminal and N-terminal regions of alpha crystallin are localized to a region of the alpha aggregate that has previously been hypothesized to be the binding site for partially denatured proteins. Curr. Eye Res. 13: 497-504, 1994.
Clinical significance of borderline elevated troponin I levels across different assays in patients with suspected acute coronary syndrome.

We aimed to elucidate the clinical significance of borderline troponin I (TnI) increases and see if such increases are of similar significance across different assays. Markedly increased TnI is a strong predictor of adverse cardiac events. It is not clear if borderline increases with different commercially available TnI assays provide similar prognostic information. From January 2001 to February 2004, 3 different TnI assays (Beckman Access TnI, Beckman Access AccuTnI, and Vitros ECI Troponin) were used to evaluate the peak TnI value in 1,152 consecutive patients admitted with suspected acute coronary syndrome/non–ST-elevation myocardial infarction (MI). Recommended cutoffs were used to differentiate borderline from marked increases reported as consistent with MI. Clinical data and 30-day death/new MIs were determined by chart abstraction. Demographics and cardiac risk factors were similar for the 3 groups. Frequency of borderline TnI ranged widely among assays (18.7% to 42.1%) but was significantly less with the Vitros ECI Troponin assay (p 1.5); the relation to adverse 30-day outcomes and borderline increases persisted after correcting for CRI in a multivariate logistic regression model. In conclusion, although borderline increased TnI levels are common and significantly associated with CRI, they do not all portend the same clinical prognosis. This study highlights the need for standardization of TnI levels across different assays.
An experimental study of new diagnostic methods for the examination of osseous lesions in the temporomandibular joint.

Digital subtraction radiography, tomosynthesis, bone uptake of radionuclide, and arthroscopy were evaluated for detection and quantification of bony lesions induced unilaterally in the condyles of six dogs. A stereotaxic head-holder facilitated acquisition of reproducible radiographs suitable for subtraction and for circular tomosynthesis. Bone uptake of technetium-99m methylene diphosphonate was measured with a hand-held collimated miniature detector. Arthroscopy was performed with an arthroscope of 2.4 mm diameter. Bone defect mass determined by subtraction radiography correlated highly (r = 0.92, p < 0.001) with the calcium content of removed bone measured by atomic spectroscopy. Both subtraction radiography and tomosynthesis indicated reshaping of the condyle into a more anterior position over a 10-week follow-up period. Radionuclide uptake was significantly elevated (p < 0.04) from 2 to 10 weeks after surgery and correlated (r = 0.73, p < 0.05) with regained bone mass measured by subtraction radiography. Arthroscopy revealed progressive degeneration of cartilage with denudation in the fossa. Both radiographic techniques demonstrated the lesions and bone remodeling, but only subtraction provided quantitative results. Radionuclide uptake predicted quantitatively future bone mass changes, and arthroscopy revealed cartilage and soft tissue status not otherwise observable.
Loss of Water from Venus. I. Hydrodynamic Escape of Hydrogen

A one-dimensional photochemical-dynamic model is used to study hydrodynamic loss of hydrogen from a primitive, water-rich atmosphere on Venus. The escape flux is calculated as a function of the H2O mixing ratio at the atmospheric cold trap. The cold trap mixing ratio is then related in an approximate fashion to the H2O concentration in the lower atmosphere. Hydrodynamic escape should have been the dominant loss process for hydroogen when the H2O mass mixing ratio in the lower atmosphere exceeded approximately 0.1. The escape rate would have depended upon the magnitude of the solar ultraviolet flux and the atmospheric EUV heating efficiency and, to a lesser extent, on the O2 content of the atmosphere. The time required for Venus to have lost the bulk of a terrestrial ocean of water is on the order of a billion years. Deuterium would have been swept away along with hydrogen if the escape rate was high enough, but some D/H enrichment should have occurred as the escape rate slowed down.
Nonlinear magnetic response of the complex AC susceptibility in the YBa2Cu3O7 superconductors

Abstract Measurements of the complex AC susceptibility χ′ −jχ″ as a function of temperature and oscillatory magnetic field amplitude for a Y1Ba2Cu3O7 superconductor are reported. By observing the time-dependent analog signal produced in the AC susceptometer coils directly, the nonlinear magnetic response is demonstrated to arise from a nonsinusoidal waveform that is also phase-shifted from a purely inductive waveform. These observed waveforms are quantitatively interpreted within a weakly-connected loop model.
Cooperative Lamb shift for a cloud of two-level atoms located between two parallel-plate conductors

I give the closed-form analytic expression for the cooperative Lamb shift (CLS) in the scalar photon theory for an ensemble of two-level atoms in the shape of a slab located between two parallel-plate perfect conductors. I compute this quantity for the cases when the atomic system is initially prepared in a phased state and in the uniform state.
Thoracolumbar spine fractures : clinical presentation and the effect of altered sensorium and major injury

A retrospective review of 145 patients with thoracic or lumbar spine fractures from blunt trauma was conducted to identify the clinical presentation of these patients. The presence of back pain or tenderness (BPT), neurologic injury, altered sensorium from head injury or alcohol intoxication, and concomitant major injury were determined. Any delayed or missed diagnoses were analyzed. One hundred eighteen (81%) patients complained of BPT on their initial presentation. The presence of BPT was significantly higher in those patients without an altered sensorium or other major injury. Of the 27 (19%) patients with a negative finding of BPT, all (100%) had an altered sensorium, concomitant major injury, or neurologic deficit. There were no asymptomatic thoracic or lumbar spine fractures in neurologically intact patients with clear sensoriums and no concomitant major injuries. These patients do not need routine thoracolumbar radiography.
A Progymnasmata for Our Time: Adapting Classical Exercises to Teach Translingual Style

Scholarship on language difference has strived for decades to transform teaching practices in mainstream, developmental, and second-language writing classrooms. Despite compelling arguments in support of linguistic diversity, a majority of secondary and postsecondary writing teachers in the US still privilege Standard English. I join a number of scholars in arguing for a revival of classical style and the progymnasmata, albeit with the unique agenda of strengthening pedagogies of language difference. Although adapting classical rhetorics to promote translingual practices such as code-meshing at first seems to contradict the spirit of language difference given the dominant perception of Greco-Roman culture as imperialistic and intolerant of diversity, I reread rhetoricians such as Quintilian in order to recover their latent multilingual potential.
Rupture-to-Rafters Simulations: Unifying Science and Engineering for Earthquake Hazard Mitigation

High-performance computing has brought about a renaissance in computational seismology and earthquake engineering. Researchers in both fields are using advanced numeric tools and high-fidelity numerical models synergistically to create rupture-to-rafters simulations. This end-to-end approach promises to significantly advance earthquake damage prediction, preparation, mitigation, and disaster response.
Migraine prophylaxis with botulinum toxin A is associated with perception of headache.

The purpose of this study was to test whether the efficacy of prophylactic treatment with botulinum toxin A (BTX-A) on migraine frequency is related to the individual perception of the pain and its directionality, namely, exploding, imploding, or ocular migraine headache. Episodic and chronic migraine patients (n=82) previously treated with BTX-A were interviewed to characterize their migraine headache and its directionality. The magnitude of their response to treatment was analyzed vis-a-vis their individual type of headache. Patients showing a >67% drop in number of migraine days/month were classified as responders; those showing a drop smaller than 33% were labeled non-responders; patients showing a drop between 34% and 66% were considered questionable responders. After BTX-A treatment, the number of migraine days/month dropped 85.2+/-1.6% (from 20.1+/-1.5 to 2.8+/-0.4; p 0.78) in 34 non-responders. The frequency of headache types differed significantly (p<0.0001) across the 3 response sub-groups. Among non-responders, 83% described a buildup of pressure inside their head (exploding headache). Among responders and questionable responders, 84 and 64%, respectively, perceived their head to be crushed, clamped or stubbed by external forces (imploding headache) or an eye-popping pain (ocular headache). The prevalence of exploding, imploding, and ocular headache was similar between episodic and chronic migraine patients. Imploding/ocular migraine headache is more likely than exploding headache to be prevented by prophylactic BTX-A treatment. Further validation of this principle should await large-scale prospective, placebo-controlled studies.
Cascade diffusion theory of displacement-induced point defect concentration and flux fluctuations

A theoretical approach, which has been developed to assess the fluctuations in point defect concentrations and fluxes to sinks that are induced by the production of point defects in spatially and temporally discrete cascades, is summarized. Solutions for cascade dissipation are outlined for the case where cascades occur in a homogeneous lossy medium as well as for the more involved geometries where cascades occur in the presence of a nearby dislocation or cavity. By superposition of solutions representing discrete cascades under conditions of interest, time profiles of point defect concentrations and fluxes are generated. The profiles exhibit extreme fluctuations. Continuum rate theory results arise by applying limits and approximations to cascade diffusion theory. Application of the theory to microstructural processes shows that property changes, especially creep are affected by the fluctuations.
Use of Newsletters to Promote Environmental Political Action: An Experimental Analysis.

The managers of beach businesses were randomly assigned to receive no intervention or two newsletters per week for 6 weeks that presented economic consequences of damage to coastal water quality and how to contact politicians. The percentage of proenvironmental political contacts was significantly greater in the experimental (newsletter) group than in the control group. Logistical regression showed that contacts in the newsletter group were more than five times that of controls after adjusting for history of contacts and predisposition to take such action. Results suggest that the intervention can promote political action that could influence environmental policies and human health.
Dynamic buckling of impulsively loaded prismatic cores

When sandwich panels with prismatic cores are impulsively loaded, the stresses imposed by the core on the front face, as well as those transmitted through the core govern the response metrics, especially the center displacement, resistance to tearing, and loads transmitted to the supports. This article presents a basic study of the dynamic response with emphasis on the I-core. A prior assessment revealed bucklewaves induced because of inertial phenomena accompanying the rapid compression of the members. The development of these waves is an integral aspect of the dynamic response. One objective of this investigation is to ascertain the characteristics governing such waves in I-core configurations through a combined experimental and numerical study. A particular emphasis is on the influence of manufacturing imperfections in the core members on the formation and propagation of the buckles. A second goal is to examine the stresses associated with the dynamic compression of the core, again through a combined experimental and numerical investigation. The investigation is conducted for stainless steel I-core panels supported at the back face and subjected to a constant velocity at the front. Imperfections to be included in the numerical study have been ascertained by comparing buckle patterns with those found experimentally over the relevant velocity range. The simulations reveal that the stresses induced differ on the front and back faces. On the front they are higher and velocity dependent. On the rear they are velocity invariant and scale with the relative density and material yield strength. The duration of the stress pulses, which is essentially the same on both faces, scales linearly with the core height. It correlates with the time needed for bucklewaves to propagate through the core to the back face. After the pulse terminates, the core continues to compress at a stress level about an order of magnitude smaller.
Single-Step Preparation and Deagglomeration of Itraconazole Microflakes by Supercritical Antisolvent Method for Dissolution Enhancement

Itraconazole (ITZ) microflakes were produced by supercritical antisolvent (SAS) method and simultaneously mixed with pharmaceutical excipients in a single step to prevent drug agglomeration. Simultaneous ITZ particle formation and mixing with fast-flo lactose (FFL) was performed in a high-pressure stirred vessel at 116 bar and 40 °C by the SAS-drug excipient mixing (SAS-DEM) method. The effects of stabilizers, such as sodium dodecyl sulfate and poloxamer 407 (PLX), on particle formation and drug dissolution were studied. Drug-excipient formulations were characterized for surface morphology, crystallinity, drug-excipient interactions, drug content uniformity, and drug dissolution rate. Mixture of drug microflakes and FFL formed by the SAS-DEM process shows that the process was successful in overcoming drug-drug agglomeration. PLX produced crystalline drug flakes in loose agglomerates with superior dissolution and flow properties even at higher drug loadings. Characterization studies confirmed the crystallinity of the drug and absence of chemical interactions during the SAS process. The dissolution of ITZ was substantially higher due to SAS and SAS-DEM processes; this improvement can be attributed to the microflake particle structures, effective deagglomeration, and wetting of the drug flakes with the excipients.
Micronutrient Deficiencies, Growth Failure and Developmental Delays Are More Prevalent than Infectious Diseases in US Adopted Chinese Orphans

Micronutrient Deficiencies, Growth Failure and Developmental Delays Are More Prevalent than Infectious Diseases in US Adopted Chinese Orphans
Influence of Dimethyl Sulphoxide on Glycine Transport in Sarcoma-180 Tumour Cells

DIMETHYL sulphoxide (DMSO) inhibits a number of biosynthetic processes; growth of fibroblasts1 and bacteria2, DNA synthesis in sarcoma-180 tumour cells3, thyroidal transport and organification of iodine (our unpublished observations), and protein systhesis4,5 are all inhibited by sufficiently high concentrations of this compound in vitro. The activity of a number of enzymes6 is also reduced in similar concentrations of DMSO. An interesting fact is that these inhibitory effects of DMSO are reversible—they can be overcome by a sufficient reduction in the DMSO concentration, for example, by “washing” the tissue, cells or enzyme in physiological saline. The mechanism of DMSO inhibition, which is unknown, may involve non-specific enzyme inhibition, although the activity of some enzymes is increased in DMSO6.
Continuous flow separation of carotenoids by liquid chromatography.

Abstract A liquid chromatographic system has been developed that gives good separation of complex mixtures of carotenoids. Carotenes are separated on magnesium oxide and xanthophylls on zinc carbonate. The columns are regenerated after each sample which virtually eliminates repacking. Submicrogram quantities of carotenoids are readily detected and many cis-trans isomers are separated. An antioxidant is included to reduce on-column losses and isomerization of carotenoids. The method is quantitative, reproducible, sensitive, moderately rapid, and suitable for routine analysis. Use of the system for the study of isomer formation of carotenoids and for the identification of citrus peel pigments is included.
Supporting PDAs: the experience of a health sciences library

This paper discusses the Duke University Medical Center Library’s experience in supporting the use of mobile technology. Over the past several years, the library contributed to the formation of a mobile technology infrastructure through surveys, organization of information sharing events, and the development and review of medical center wide proposals and reports.
An interactive approach to identify the best compromise solution for two objective shortest path problems

Abstract In recent years there has been a growing interest in multiobjective path problems. Although efficient algorithms exist for solving single objective shortest path problems, the same is not true for generating the noninferior solution set for multiobjective problems, as the number of noninferior solutions may grow exponentially with the number of nodes. Hansen (1980) [Lecture Notes in Economics and Mathematical Systems 177 (Edited by M. Beckmann and H.P. Kunzi),pp. 109–127. Springer, Berlin], Climaco and Martins (1982) [Eur. J. Opl Res. 11, 399–404], Martins (1984) [Eur. J. Opl. Res. 16, 236–245], and Henig (1985) [Eur. J. Opl. Res. 25, 281–291] present exact algorithms for generating the entire noninferior solution set for a two objective shortest path problem. All of the above authors acknowledge the computational complexity of the problem and consequently, with the exception of Martins (1984), propose algorithms to generate an approximation of the noninferior solution set. None of these authors, however, recommend direct interaction with the decision makers. In this article, we propose an interactive method to generate an approximation of the noninferior solution set for two objective shortest path problems. The goal of this approach is to assist the decision maker in selecting the preferred or best compromise solution from among the noninferior solutions.
Animal models for alcoholic liver disease.

The baboon is the only animal in which alcoholic fibrosis and cirrhosis of the liver has been produced with a nutritionally adequate diet. Zinc deficiency is associated with alcoholic liver disease and may contribute to liver damage. We have therefore investigated whether zinc supplementation would reduce liver damage in ten baboons receiving ethanol and an adequate diet. Eight received ethanol at up to 25 g/kg/day (70% of calories) for up to 60 months (four were supplemented with 50 mg zinc/day). All animals gained weight, and blood concentrations of ethanol were 63–342 mg/dl. Changes in liver blood tests were slight. Liver histology only showed fatty change in six animals, severe in two, and minor inflammatory changes but no significant fibrosis or cirrhosis. In one of the animals with severe fatty change there were also degenerative changes in parenchymal cells. There was thus no significant hepatic fibrosis or cirrhosis in baboons given large amounts of ethanol and an adequate diet for up to 5 years.
Stereo-selective binding of monoclonal antibodies to the poly-gamma-d-glutamic acid capsular antigen of Bacillus anthracis

Abstract Bacillus anthracis is surrounded by an anti-phagocytic capsule that is entirely composed of γ-linked d -glutamic acid (γDPGA). γDPGA is required for virulence and is produced in large quantities following spore germination. We have previously described the isolation of several γDPGA-reactive mAbs. The reagents are effective in both immunoprotection and diagnostic applications. The current work was done to further investigate the specificity of γDPGA-reactive mAbs. The specificity of each mAb was characterized using surface plasmon resonance. Our results indicate that each mAb is stereoselective for binding to d -glutamic acid oligomers, but to varying degrees. In particular, mAb F26G3 is highly selective for γDPGA; alterations in stereochemistry disrupted recognition. These differences in mAb reactivity suggest that binding of γDPGA by mAb F26G3 is more specific than non-directional ionic interactions between a negatively charged antigen and a positively charged antibody.
"It's Very Complicated" Exploring Heritage Language Identity with Heritage Language Teachers in a Teacher Preparation Program.

Despite the proliferation of research in heritage language (HL) education, pedagogically based research that examines teacher education practice for promoting critical reflection of HL teachers is sparse. This article describes how preservice teachers working in community-based HL schools changed their views of HL identity during their participation in a teacher preparation program in Hawaii. The researcher as a teacher educator collected data over the course of three semesters while closely working with a cohort of five HL-speaking undergraduate students. The data included class transcripts, interviews and online reflection journals. This article delineates the ways in which the teacher educator and her students co-constructed the meaning of HL identity by (1) problematizing academic constructs of HL; (2) sharing personal and professional narratives and (3) capitalizing on linguistic and cultural funds of knowledge of HL teachers. Data analysis shows that HL teachers exhibited transformed views of HL ide...
RIU -- Spells Command And Control For F-16(R)

As part of the ATARS program, Phase I, a reconnaissance pod system was flown to demonstrate the EO capability for manned tactical reconnaissance. Test flights were made at General Dynamics Fort Worth (GD/FW) and Edwards Air Force Base (EAFB) between June and September 1986 using an F-16D aircraft. The GD/FW developed pod consisted of a Reconnaissance Interface Unit (RIU), KS-153 sensors, an RS-730 Infrared Line Scanner, a Video Management System, and a Data Link. The recce system command, control, and aircraft interfaces were performed by the RIU. The following describes the RIU's functions in this recce pod, the system integration and control problems encountered and the solutions provided by the RIU during integration and flight testing.
Anesthetic techniques for pediatric thoracoscopy

Background. Since 1981, we have performed 68 thorocoscopic procedures in 62 patients aged 7 months to 21 years. Methods. We reviewed the anesthetic and ventilation strategy used for each procedure to determine which anesthetic strategies are safe and effective for particular children and conditions. Results. Regional anesthesia with sedation was used for six procedures in 5 patients with a mean age of 16 years (range, 9 to 21 years). One patient required conversion to general anesthesia. General anesthesia with one-lung ventilation was attempted for 18 procedures in 17 patients with a mean age of 12 years (range, 7 months to 18 years). Two patients required conversion to two-lung anesthesia secondary to pulmonary intolerance. One of these patients and 2 others required thoractomy. General anesthesia with two-lung ventilation was used for 44 procedures in 41 patients with a mean age of 9 years (range, 1 to 17 years). There were no anesthesia-related difficulties. Conclusions. Regional anesthesia should be limited to the older, more cooperative patient. General anesthesia with one-lung ventilation is useful in adolescents, as they tolerate collapse of one lung well, and it is particularly desirable for procedures requiring exposure of the mediastinum and for talc pleurodesis. General anesthesia with two-lung ventilation can be used in any age group but is generally necessary for infants and small children, as they often will not tolerate the collapse of one lung, and in the larger child or adolescent with severe pulmonary compromise.
Management of patients with sarcoma of soft tissue in an extremity.

Results of management of 57 patients with sarcoma of soft tissue on an extremity by radical dose radiation therapy are presented. These patients had been treated 2 to 10 years previously at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Hospital. Forty-six patients were seen after simple excision (no palpable tumor at time of our examination), while 11 patients were treated for the primary or a recurrent tumor. The recommended surgical treatment was amputation in all patients of this study sample. Radiation therapy technique was complex; dose level was 6300–7000 rads or the equivalent in 61/2-7 weeks. Local control has been achieved in 50 of 57 patients. For the 46 patients with lesions in the elbow-hand or knee-foot regions, local control has been 100%. In contrast, 7 of 11 tumors located in the proximal extremities (upper arm or thigh) have recurred locally. A useful limb has been retained for 2 to 10 years in 34 of the cases. The more refined techniques of therapy now being employed yield a good functional result in nearly all cases. Metastasis-free survival at 2 to 10 years is 58%. This figure depends not only upon histologic type but apparently also on histologic grade: 26 of 36 (72%) for Grades 1 and 2 but only 7 of 17 (41%) for Grade 3.
A synthetic mimic of protein inner space: buried polar interactions in a deep water-soluble host.

A deep water-soluble cavitand was functionalized with a carboxylic acid directed toward the hydrophobic interior of the host. The buried salt-bridge interaction formed with a quinuclidium cationic guest was determined to be worth −3 kcal/mol using a free energy cycle. The strength of the interaction correlates well with buried salt bridges in proteins, indicating that the cavitand interior mimics the hydrophobic inner space of proteins.
Regulation of nuclear entry of the Drosophila clock proteins period and timeless.

Abstract Two genes period ( per ) and timeless ( tim ), are essential for circadian rhythmicity in Drosophila. The encoded proteins (PER and TIM) physically interact. Here, it is shown that TIM and PER accumulate in the cytoplasm when independently expressed in cultured (S2) Drosophila cells. However, the proteins move to the nuclei of these cells if coexpressed. Domains of PER and TIM have been identified that block nuclear localization of the monomeric proteins. In vitro protein interaction studies indicate that the sequence inhibiting the nuclear accumulation of PER forms a binding site for TIM. The results indicate a mechanism for controlled nuclear localization in which suppression of cytoplasmic localization is accomplished by direct interaction of PER and TIM. No other clock functions are required for nuclear localization. The findings suggest that a checkpoint in the circadian cycle is established by requiring cytoplasmic assembly of a PER/TIM complex as a condition for nuclear transport of either protein.
NORMETADRENALINE METABOLISM IN MAN.

Abstract Five female subjects were injected with 9.5 μc of dl -normetadrenaline-1- 14 C (sp.act. 7.5 mc mmole ). The normetadrenaline was injected into the antecubital vein over a 1-min period, and the urine was collected via an indwelling catheter every 10 min for a total of 70 min. Two additional subjects who had been treated with a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (iproniazid, 50 mg t.i.d.) for 9 and 10 days, respectively, were similarly treated. In each urine sample the normetadrenaline and its metabolites were separated by ion exchange and their radioactivity measured by liquid scintillation. Normetadrenaline, which represented 64 ± 3 % of the total radioactivity in the first 10-min post-injection period rapidly decreased thereafter. At the same time there was a rapid and marked increase in the 3-methoxy-4-hydroxymandelic acid and the 4-O-sulfate conjugate of normetadrenaline ; there was also a moderate increase of 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenyI-glycol sulfate (see Fig. 2). No detectable amounts of 3,4-dihydroxymandelic acid or 3,4-dihydroxyphenylglycol sulfate were found after an injection of normetadrenaline, which indicates that these compounds are not derived from normetadrenaline. In those subjects who had been previously treated with a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (iproniazid) the deamination of normetadrenaline was inhibited. This was reflected by a decrease in the formation of 3-methoxy-4-hydroxymandelic acid and 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol sulfate and an increase in the normetadrenaline conjugate.
Pan-colonic field defects are detected by CGH in the colons of UC patients with dysplasia/cancer.

BAC arrays were used to evaluate genomic instability along the colon of patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). Genomic instability increases with disease progression and biopsies more proximal to dysplasia showed increased instability. Pan-colonic field copy number gain or loss involving small (< 1 Mb) regions were detected in most patients and were particularly apparent in the UC progressor patients who had dysplasia or cancer. Chromosomal copy gains or losses affecting large regions were mainly restricted to dysplastic biopsies. Areas of significant chromosomal losses were detected in the UC progressors on chromosomes 2q36, 3q25, 3p21, 4q34, 4p16.2, 15q22, and 16p13 (p-value ≤ 0.04). These results extend our understanding of the dynamic nature of pan-colonic genomic instability in this disease.
ApoE receptor 2 regulates synapse and dendritic spine formation.

Background Apolipoprotein E receptor 2 (ApoEr2) is a postsynaptic protein involved in long-term potentiation (LTP), learning, and memory through unknown mechanisms. We examined the biological effects of ApoEr2 on synapse and dendritic spine formation—processes critical for learning and memory.
Fibre laser sensor with ultrahigh strain resolution using interferometric interrogation

A fibre Bragg grating based laser sensor system with an RMS strain resolution of 5.6*10/sup 14// square root Hz at 7 kHz is reported. An interferometric readout technique is used to determine strain induced wavelength shifts in the laser with high resolution.
Evaluation of three strip tests for measuring electrolytes in mares' pre-partum mammary secretions and for predicting parturition.

Summary Three strip test kits which measure calcium and/or magnesium in mares' mammary secretions were compared and assessed for their accuracy in:- 1) measuring these electrolytes compared to standard laboratory measurements, and 2) predicting the time of parturition. Daily samples of mammary secretions were obtained pre-partum from 35 Thoroughbred mares and allocated a score. Measurement of mammary secretion calcium and/or magnesium by the strip tests and laboratory methods correlated significantly (P<0.001). The results obtained for prediction of parturition were analysed by two methods. Method i) indicated that the majority of mares had a maximum score on the day of birth. However, the second method of analysis included all pre-partum scores and this demonstrated that maximum scores occurred on more occasions prior to the day of birth than on the day of birth itself. The number of nights spent attending mares, and the percentage of occasions when foaling was missed, were also calculated for given strip test scores. The results indicate that the test kits are not particularly accurate in predicting time of parturition although they are a reliable means of measuring mammary secretion calcium and/or magnesium. It is suggested that the test kits may be more helpful by indicating when it is not necessary to attend mares at night.
Chemokine expression in myocardial ischemia: MIP-2 dependent MCP-1 expression protects cardiomyocytes from cell death.

Chemokines are small molecular weight proteins that play important roles in inflammation. Originally described as chemotactic cytokines, chemokines stimulate the influx of leukocytes into specific tissue compartments. These molecules also modulate gene expression in both infiltrating and resident cells to mediate a vast array of cellular functions, and their importance in disease processes has been well documented. This study examined the expression of chemokines during myocardial ischemia and established a pathway by which two, MIP-2 and JE/MCP-1, modulate cardiac myocyte viability during this process. To focus on the direct effects of chemokines on these cells, a mouse model of ischemia without reperfusion was used. The expression of chemokines and chemokine receptors was induced in the left ventricular free wall as early as 1 h post-ischemia, with the most significant increases in MIP-2 (CXCL2) and JE/MCP-1 (CCL2). Expression of their respective receptors, CXCR2 and CCR2, was also induced. Similar changes in gene expression occurred at the mRNA and protein levels in isolated neonatal mouse cardiac myocytes stimulated by hypoxia. Antibody to MIP-2 inhibited hypoxia-induced JE/MCP-1 expression, demonstrating that MIP-2 is critical for this event. Moreover, in vivo intramyocardial injection of either an adenovirus expressing MIP-2 or the recombinant protein itself was sufficient to upregulate JE/MCP-1 production even in the absence of ischemia. Thus, MIP-2 regulates JE/MCP-1 expression both in cell culture and in vivo. Furthermore, JE/MCP-1 markedly decreased hypoxia-induced cell death in cultured cardiac myocytes. Thus, JE/MCP-1 appears to mediate an unanticipated survival pathway in target cardiac myocytes themselves. These findings indicate an important role for MIP-2 and JE/MCP-1 in regulating the response of cardiac myocytes to myocardial ischemia.
Stressors and Supports for Adult Online Learners: Comparing First- and Continuing-Generation College Students

A mixed-methods approach was used to examine the perceptions that adult online learners have about their ability to succeed in their educational pursuits, the barriers that they face, and the institutional supports that help them to persist. Particular attention was paid to the differences between first-generation and continuing-generation adult online learners. Survey findings show that the majority of adult online learners—both first- and continuing-generation—are confident in their abilities to succeed in school. First-generation adult online learners are more likely to cite highly demanding work environments, which may impede their ability to balance school with other commitments. Both groups make use of the supports offered by their schools, especially those related to curriculum and technical guidance, but first-generation adult online learners have higher rates of usage overall. In interviews, both groups cite the importance of advisors, whereas first-generation adult online learners are more likel...
Pathology of Central Nervous System Posttransplant Lymphoproliferative Disorders: Lessons from Pediatric Autopsies

Posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorders (PTLD) involving the central nervous system (CNS) in children are uncommon and can prove diagnostically challenging. The clinical and imaging characteristics of CNS PTLD can overlap with those of infection, hemorrhage, and primary CNS tumors. Some cases of CNS PTLD remain clinically unsuspected and are diagnosed postmortem. We report 6 instances of CNS PTLD in children, 2 of which were limited to the CNS and were unsuspected before autopsy. In our autopsy series, PTLD was found outside the CNS in 4 out of 6 cases. Since CNS PTLD has a poor prognosis and the presentation can be subtle, unsuspected, and high grade, it is important to maintain a high index of suspicion and to perform imaging and brain biopsy whenever clinically appropriate. In the presence of leptomeningeal involvement, the diagnosis could be made by cerebral spinal fluid examination.
Developmental differences in diffusion tensor imaging parameters in borderline personality disorder.

Background Borderline personality disorder (BPD) often presents during adolescence. Early detection and intervention decreases its subsequent severity. However, little is known about early predictors and biological underpinnings of BPD. The observed abnormal functional connectivity among brain regions in BPD led to studies of white matter, as the neural substrate of connectivity. However, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) studies in adult BPD have been inconclusive, and, as yet, there are no published DTI studies in borderline adolescents.
Polymorphism in clathrin light chains from different tissues

Two types of light chains were observed in clathrins from different bovine tissues. Clathrin was purified from seven different bovine tissues using immunoaffinity columns prepared from a monoclonal antibody specific for the heavier light chain (LCa) of bovine brain clathrin. The LCa equivalent in clathrin from non-brain tissue was identified by monoclonal antibody binding to electrophoretic blots of these clathrins. The LCa and LCb light chains of bovine brain clathrin are, respectively, 4×10 3 daltons and 3×10 3 daltons heavier than their corresponding light chains in other tissues. The light chains from tissues other than brain are similar in molecular weight.
A new approach to determining water stable aggregation

Abstract A new method is introduced to measure water stability of soil aggregates. The wrist‐action shaker is a simple, inexpensive tool that provides highly accurate data for the assessment of soil erodibility. Three soils from Hawaii (two Oxisols and one Vertisol) with different mineralogies, management histories, and potassium (K)‐factors were examined in this study. Six indices of water stable aggregation were determined after rapid immersion of air‐dry aggregates, followed by gentle wet‐sieving. Single‐sieve indices of percent water stable aggregates (WSA) 0.25 mm, and > 1.00 mm, were highly correlated. Additionally, these indices were highly correlated with three multiple sieve indices, namely geometric mean aggregate diameter (GMAD), arithmetic mean aggregate mass diameter (MAMD), and the coarse‐to‐fine index (CFI = % WSA > 1.00 mm / % WSA Molokai Ox...