cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Development and analyses of CPT-11 resistant sublines of human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line, SW-948

1493 Irinotecan (CPT-11), a camptothecin analog, is converted to the active topoisomerase I inhibitor, SN-38, by carboxylesterase. CPT-11 is widely used for the treatment of advanced colorectal carcinoma. CPT-11 refractory colorectal cancer patients have shown benefit by treatment with anti-EGFR mAb, cetuximab, when given alone or in combination with CPT-11. In order to study current and novel treatment options for CPT-11 refractory colorectal cancer, two CPT-11 resistant colorectal cancer cell sublines were isolated from the parental cell line, SW-948. Two methods were used to develop sublines resistant to CPT-11. First, SW-948 cells were initially exposed to a high dose (2-fold higher than the IC50 dose) of CPT-11 to obtain the resistant cell line, SW948CPTH. Second, SW-948 cells were initially exposed to a low dose (4-fold lower than the IC50 dose) of CPT-11 to obtain the resistant cell line, SW948CPTL. Both methods used a stepwise increase and continuous exposure to CPT-11 on the cells. The cells were monitored for drug resistance by clonogenic assay. Upon attaining an increased resistance of ≥10-fold in the IC50 dose of CPT-11compared to the parental cell line, the drug was removed and the cells were monitored for retention of CPT-11 resistance for >100 days. Cross-resistance testing to other topoisomerase I inhibitors showed increased resistance to CPT (SW948CPTH) and SN-38 (SW948CPTH and SW948CPTL) but not lapachone (SW948CPTH). Cross-resistance studies to other chemotherapeutic agents showed increased resistance to cisplatin and etoposide by SW948CPTL but not 5-FU by either subline. Microarray analyses showed the differential expression of 464 (p≤0.01) or 1488 (p≤0.05) genes when comparing the SW948CPTH to SW-948 cells and 27 (p≤0.01) or 333 (p≤0.05) genes when comparing the SW948CPTL to SW-948 cells. Ninety-eight (p≤0.05) genes were identified that were differentially expressed in both SW948CPTH and SW948CPTL cells compared to the parental cell line. SW948CPTL cells were found to overexpress the p-glycoprotein (p-gp) gene and protein by microarray and FACS analyses, respectively. Verapamil was shown to increase the intracellular concentration of CPT-11 in SW948CPTL cells. SW948CPTH cells were found to overexpress the single-strand break repair gene, XRCC1, and protein by microarray analysis and immunoblot, respectively. Immunoblot analysis indicated the EGFR expression was similar in the parental cell line and each subline, however erbB-2 gene and protein expression was increased in SW948CPTH cells. Exposure of the parental cell line and each subline to cetuximab was shown to reduce the expression of XRCC1 protein in SW948CPTH and SW948CPTL cells. The mechanism of CPT-11 drug resistance in SW948CPTL cells involves p-gp whereas the mechanism of CPT-11 drug resistance in SW948CPTH cells may involve one or more genes, one of which may be the XRCC1 gene.
Using Debriefing for Meaningful Learning With Screen-Based Simulation.

Background COVID-19 has led to increased use of screen-based simulation. However, the importance of including a robust debriefing as a component of these simulations is often neglected. Problem Failing to include debriefing with screen-based simulation could negatively impact student learning outcomes. Approach Debriefing, including recollection, discussion to reveal understanding, feedback and reflection, is a process of helping learners make sense of learned content and knowledge as it is applied to the patient care experience. Debriefing for Meaningful Learning (DML) is an evidence-based method derived from theory, which can be easily incorporated into screen-based simulation to augment the clinical learning experience. Conclusion By guiding learners to consistently engage in DML, clinical decisions and actions taken during virtual simulations can be uncovered, discussed, challenged, corrected, and explored. Including a synchronous, structured debriefing like DML ensures that screen-based simulation results in meaningful learning in addition to performance feedback to foster safe and quality patient care.
Teaching an Introductory Data Analytics Course Using Microsoft Access ® and Excel ®

Data analytics has been recently adopted by many researchers and professionals working with data in both academic and industry. With the increase in demand for data analysts, there has been a parallel growth in data analytics training programs within companies and educational institutions. In this paper, we introduce the concepts of data analytics and present practical examples using Microsoft Access and Excel. The four types of data analytics (i.e., descriptive, diagnostic, predictive, and prescriptive) are discussed and practical examples are provided. For descriptive analytics, we discuss the data properties and models and present examples of database design and implementation in Microsoft Access. The example for diagnostic analytics involves an ergonomic assessment application in Microsoft Excel to identify the sources of ergonomic risks in work environments. Predictive analytics examples include regression and clustering models implementation in Microsoft Excel. Finally, the prescriptive analytics example involves optimizing the snow removal process in a local city by developing an optimization model and its implementation in Excel. These examples will help students understand data analytics and be able to implement the different data analytics models in Microsoft Access and Excel.
Xunzi’s Ritual Model and Modern Moral Education

While the early Confucians were largely content to maintain the rituals of ancient kings as the core of moral education in their time, it is not obvious that contemporary humans could, or should, draw from the particulars of such a tradition. Indeed, even if one takes ritual seriously as a tool for cultivation, there remains a question of how to design moral education programs incorporating ritual. This essay examines impediments faced by a ritualized approach to moral education, how they might be overcome, and how a ritual method could be developed in modernity. I contend that a Confucian notion of ritual, particularly as elaborated in the Xunzi, is both compatible with modern moral education and capable of making a distinct contribution to moral education in terms of how rituals can be used to structure and inculcate a shared climate of respect and humaneness both in- and outside the classroom. Specifically, the ritual education method includes emphases on inculcating moral fluency via symbolic practices and distinctions, training and appropriately associating promoral dispositions, enhancing moral imagination, and developing awareness of other minds. The model is thus a multifaceted approach to moral education through (meta)cognitive development.
Monitored Photooxidation of Polypropylene Nonwovens

The photooxidation of polypropylene has been extensively investigated by a variety of techniques (primarily infrared spectroscopy and electron spin resonance) to elucidate the mechanisms by which this photooxidation occurs.1 As with most polymers, hydroperoxides have been found to photosensitive effectively the degradation and cause chain scission and the formation of various decomposition products containing carbonyl and alkene functional groups.2 Most studies however, have focused on the volatile degradation products formed from polypropylene at high temperatures (usually greater than 200°C) utilizing gas chromatography, and in some instances, mass spectrometry.3 The studies that have addressed the polypropylene residue have been primarily concerned with functional group analysis by infrared spectroscopy and/or chemical techniques.1 This study provides additional information on the photooxidation mechanism of polypropylene utilizing mass spectrometry to examine the nature of the volatile products liberated from the polymer residue (before and after ultraviolent exposure) at different temperatures, in conjunction with changes in various functional carbonyl groups and in the mechanical properties of the nonwoven polypropylene fabrics.
The Role of the T Cell in the Immune Response

T cells are a heterogenous group of cells and thus have multiple functions in the immune response. This multiplicity of functions has led to a multiplicity of names for T cell subsets; there are “killer cells,” “helper cells,” and “suppressor cells” implying that T cells kill foreign cells as well as help and suppress syngeneic effector lymphoid cells to perform their immunological functions. There have been a number of exciting basic discoveries made recently, which have significantly altered our understanding of how T cells perform some of these functions. These new insights should be helpful in designing experimental protocols to use the immune response to control cancer growth.
Are superluminal connections necessary

The following theorem is proved: If the statistical predictions of quantum theory are true in general and if the macroscopic world is not radically different from what is observed, then what happens macroscopically in one space-time region must in some cases depend on variables that are controlled by experimenters in far-away, space-like-separated regions. By what happens macroscopically in one space-time region is meant specifically the occurrence or nonoccurrence of a macroscopic event, such as the detection and recording of a particle by some macroscopic device. By a variable controlled by an experimenter in a certain space-time region is meant specifically the experimental setting in that region of some macroscopic device, in which this setting is controlled by an experimenter acting within that region. The theorem pertains specifically to experimental situations in which there are two far-apart, spacelike-separated regions in each of which there is a device that can be set at either of two alternative settings by an experimenter acting within that region. There is also a long sequence of experimental results (i.e. events) in each of the two regions. The theorem asserts that, for some such cases, it is mathematically impossible, within the manifold of all conceivable results compatible with the statistical predictions of quantum theory (to within a generous limit of, for example, 1000 standard deviations), that what happens in each region be independent of the experimental setting of the device in the far-away region. In short, there are situations in which it is mathematically impossible to meet both the statistical requirements of quantum theory and also the locality requirement that what happens in each region be independent of the setting made in the far-away, spacelike separated region. This result is a sharpening of a result due to Bell. Bell's result was formulated in terms of unspecified local hidden variables, and claimed merely to rule out the notion of local hidden variables, which was believed by hardly anyone anyway. The present theorem is formulated directly in terms of specified macroscopic quantities, and within the philosophic framework of contemporary quantum theory. The aim of this work is to discuss the significance of this theorem and its possible uses.
Critical Active Damping Control of a Flexible Slender Plate using a Distributed Modal Actuator and Sensor

Active damping control of the structural vibration of a one-dimensional cantilever plate is analyzed and tested. The control algorithm employs rate feedback without using any element tuned to the structural vibration frequencies, so that the senstivity of the closed-loop stability and performance to resonant frequency variations are minimized. PVF 2 layers were attached to all sides of three steel plates to act as distributed actuators and sensors. Both all-mode and single-mode actuator/sensor pairs were designed and studied, and experimental results showed that critical active damping control for the first mode was achieved. The importance of having a distributed modal actuator/sensor for the active damping control of a flexible structure is established.
Wind, Wave, and Generative Metaphor in Greek

ion. Lexical expressions only reflect this relationship, though, and the actual metaphorical linkage is made at a deeper cognitive level. According to Lakoff and Johnson, three basic operators organize all metaphor: the target domain (an abstract concept to be described metaphorically), the source domain (a relatively concrete concept which will be applied to the target), and mappings (the relational correspondences between the two domains). In the conventional    formula, X is generally the target domain and Y is the source. To illustrate how these relationships come together, consider the metaphor    : the target domain of this metaphor is the concept of love, a famously abstract concept (and one that is the subject of many common metaphors), while the source domain of the     metaphor is, of course, the concept of a journey. This core metaphor is realized in expressions such as Our relationship is on the wrong track, We are at a crossroads, and We are making progress in our relationship. Table . lists several example mappings that can be derived from such expressions:7 Source Target travelers lovers a vehicle the love relationship a journey events in the relationship distance travelled duration of the relationship directions taken decisions about what to do mishaps during travel periods of strife etc. etc. T .: Example     mappings Note that the examples in no way represent all of the generating metaphor’s available mappings. Indeed, this particular metaphor is very common and quite productive in American English; the vagueness and semantic breadth of the source domain makes the number of possible mappings nearly limitless, but with all metaphors a certain number of core mappings will . Adapted from Kovecses, Metaphor, pp.-.
A Temporal Layered Knowledge Architecture for an Evolving Structured Environment

In this paper a layered architecture is proposed for the representation of an environment that evolves in time. This proposal extends the Layered Knowledge Architecture in [4] and represents the environment by means of a taxonomy of layers. A particular hierarchical graph is defined whose nodes represent a portion of the environment and whose edges represent a path within the environment. Position and cost functions are defined for an efficient path planning. The proposed architecture is meant to represent and maintain the evolution of the described environment. The concept is defined of "significant change", i. e. a change which alters the cost functions more than a given rate. The idea is exploiting the topological structure of the graph and the consequence of a change on such structure. Necessary and sufficient conditions are stated that assure that a change is significant or not. If a change is significant, a new version of the environment description is produced.
Comparison of Trained and Untrained Novice Drivers’ Gaze Behavior in Risky and Non-Risky Scenarios

PC-based training programs have been developed that have been shown to improve novice drivers’ hazard anticipation skills. Such programs give novice drivers information about particular driving situations (scenarios) where hidden threats could appear. We wanted to know whether this improvement in trained novice drivers’ scanning skills was simply because the trained drivers were scanning more in general or, instead, were scanning more specifically in the scenarios in which potential threats could appear. In order to evaluate this question, we trained 11 novice drivers using a PC-based program and then compared their hazard anticipation performance on a driving simulator with the hazard anticipation performance of 11 untrained novice drivers. The drivers’ eye movements were recorded for the duration of the drives. The glances of the drivers to the right (the correct response in most of the risky scenarios) were analyzed for each of the relevant risky scenarios and for stretches of non-risky situations. The trained drivers did look to the right 6.5% more in the non-risky situations than did the untrained drivers, although the difference was far from significant. However, the trained drivers looked to the right 32.7% more in the risky scenarios than in the non-risky situations, indicating they were discriminating quite well between the two situations. The untrained drivers also showed a smaller, but significant, discrimination between the risky scenarios and non-risky situations, as they looked to the right 18.9% more in the risky scenarios than in the non-risky stretches.
The Politics of Identity

George C. Rosenwald and Richard L. Ochberg. eds. Storied Lives: The Cultural Politics of Self-Understanding. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1992. ix. 304 pp. Kenneth Jacobson. Embattled Selves: An Investigation into the Nature of Identity through Oral Histories of Holocaust Survivors. New York: Atlantic Monthly Press, 1994. + 358 pp.
Dispersive methods and QCD sum rules for γ γ collisions

It has been shown, in the case of meson photoproduction, that the power-law falloff of these reactions can be described by lowest-order (real) sum rules, at moderate momentum transfer. The phases of these processes, in this regime, are usually thought to be non-perturbative. In a sum rule framework, however, they can possibly be described by radiative corrections to the hadronic spectral densities of the corresponding helicities, which become complex functions to order αs, and the effects of interference can be strongly enhanced by the presence of the vacuum condensates in the dispersion relation. It is shown that the imaginary parts of these complex corrections have a factorized form and can be evaluated in a systematic fashion, while their real parts, at the same perturbative order, are down by at least two powers of momentum transfer. The analysis is done at two-loop level, combining dimensional regularization and light-cone methods. The calculations are performed for all the independent set of scalar diagrams generated by the OPE. The analytical bounds are identified and discussed.
The expected-outcome model of two-player games

Long before computer games became popular recreations, mathematicians viewed games as models of decision making. The general understanding of decisions, however, has been impeded by the ambiguity of some of the basic components of game-tree search. In particular, the static evaluation function, or determination of a node's merit based on directly detectable features, has never been adequately defined. The expected-outcome model proposes that the appropriate value to assign a node is the expected value of a game's outcome given random play from that node on. This proposal is supported by both analytic proofs and experimental evidence: the model's optimality on a class of simple game-trees is derived analytically, and the popular statistical techniques of random sampling and regression analysis produce efficient expected-outcome estimators in real games. Overall, the expected-outcome model of two-player games is shown to be precise, accurate, easily estimable, efficiently calculable, and domain-independent.
The Decline of Life: Introduction: Old age in eighteenth-century England: no “golden age of aging”

The history of old age has often been characterized by the search for an elusive “golden age of aging.” In the past, so the story goes, families loved and cherished their old relatives; adult children nurtured their aging parents in their homes, and communities treated the venerable elderly with deep and abiding respect. The problem with this fairy-tale scenario is not only that there was no golden age of aging in the European past, but also that the sentimental model that it proposes, a model in which the aged are simultaneously dependent and revered, is both condescending and misguided. For, despite the continuing preoccupation of historians with the issues of family and community care for the aged, the goal of older people themselves in early modern Europe was to preserve their independence until their last days, and to remain full and contributing members of their families and societies for as long as their health allowed. This was certainly the case in the eighteenth century (a period which some historians actually have characterized as a golden age for the aged), when descriptions of old people, and the recorded words from the later lives of men and women, rich and poor, resonate with the shared cultural ideal of economic and residential autonomy. At the same time, it is clear that cherishing independence in old age did not mean that individuals sought isolation or withdrawal.
Women Sports Officials

(1971). Women Sports Officials. Journal of Health, Physical Education, Recreation: Vol. 42, No. 9, pp. 71-74.
Environmental Carcinogen Releases and Lung Cancer Mortality in Rural-Urban Areas of the United States.

Purpose: Environmental hazards are unevenly distributed across communities and populations; however, little is known about the distribution of environmental carcinogenic pollutants and lung cancer risk across populations defined by race, sex, and rural-urban setting. Methods: We used the Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) database to conduct an ecological study at the county level (a total of 3,141 counties). Multiple linear regressions were used to assess the associations of carcinogenic discharges from TRI sites and lung cancer mortality rates at the county level in the United States during the years 1990 through 2007. Findings: We observed an excess risk of population lung cancer mortality associated with higher amounts of environmental carcinogen releases from TRI facilities in both males and females, and in both whites and African Americans. The strength of these associations tended to be stronger in African Americans. A significant dose-response relationship was observed for the total volume of carcinogen releases or carcinogen releases to the air, but not releases to water. These associations appeared to be present within nonmetropolitan counties but not metropolitan counties, and to be concentrated in certain urban-rural county typologies. Conclusions: Our results suggest that exposure to higher carcinogen releases from industrial or chemical facilities in rural areas may increase the risk of lung cancer mortality. Our findings add to the evidence for undertaking prudent efforts to limit the release of carcinogenic chemicals into the environment.
Replanning with compliant rotations in the presence of uncertainties

As an extension to the translational patch-planner developed earlier (Xiao, 1990) the author presents strategies for generating rotational patch-plans to handle orientational errors of a held object. The replanning approach consists of patch-planning based on knowledge of contact and motion strategy planning. Replanning-oriented contact and task models are introduced. The strategies for generating compliant patch rotations and synthesizing rotational and translational patch-plans are presented and discussed. The issues of motion strategy planning and the eventual success of replanning are discussed. >
Real Change in the Real World: An Achievable Goal

This commentary builds on the papers presented at the Vanderbilt Conference by emphasizing the importance of better understanding the process of change-making if real change in the real world is to be achieved. The commentary reviews several frameworks and research findings related to achieving large-scale sustainable change that benefits children and families. It calls for the application of systems thinking as a complement to the more micro-level research that was presented at the Vanderbilt conference. Such an approach would have implications for framing of the issue, for the strategies that are taken to try to achieve change, and for research/evaluation methods for studying complex, dynamic, nonlinear systems.
Forced geoheat recovery for moderate temperature uses

Abstract Forced geoheat recovery systems (FGRS) are potential sources of heat for low-temperature utilization such as building heating. Possible resource structures or reservoirs are: (1) permeable sedimentary horizons in fairly deep basins; (2) formation contacts such as deep lava-bed contacts in flood basalt areas; (3) fracture zones or mafic dikes of sufficient permeability; and (4) some other types of intrusions with sufficient permeability at depth. The heat can be extracted by loop flow systems where the water is reinjected and circulated through the reservoir formations. The principal parameters determining the economic feasibility of FGR for building heating are the temperature of the source formations, productivity of wells, size of heat market, load conditions and capital costs. To achieve feasibility in the case of near-normal geotemperature conditions in the Pacific Northwest, the heating market should absorb a thermal power of a few MWt at a minimal load factor of 0.6 corresponding to the base load heating requirements of communities of a few thousand inhabitants.
Families and family life in rural areas.

“Research Reviews” are a regular feature of The Journal of Rural Health, presenting current research on a particular theme or topic of interest.
Theorem about existence and uniqueness of continuous solution of nonlocal problem for nonlinear hyperbolic equation

The aim of the paper is to give a theorem about the existence and uniqueness of the continuous solution of a non-linear differential hyperbolic problem with a nonlocal condition in a bounded domain. The Banach theorem about the fixed point is used to prove the existence and uniqueness of the problem considered. The results obtained in this paper can be applied in the theory of elasticity with better effect than the analogous known result with the classical initial condition.
An ultrastructural study of virions and cores of reovirus type 3

Abstract The results of an ultrastructural examination of virions and cores of reovirus type 3 are reported. The diameter of virions is 764 ± 43 A, that of cores 521 ± 31 A. The capsomers of both the outer an the inner shell (the core) are so arranged that 20 appear to be located peripherally. Those comprising the outer shell are 90 A in diameter and 10 A apart, those of the inner shell are 40 A in diameter. Both seem to be uniform in size and shape. Rare head-on views of both confirm these size estimates and also suggest that both are hollow truncated pyramids. Spatial interrelationships between neighboring capsomers on neither outer nor inner shells could be discerned clearly enough to permit assignation of any particular symmetry pattern, not even when virions were treated briefly with chymotrypsin, which enhances surface detail. The total number of capsomers in each shell follows directly from the fact that 20 are located on the periphery: the maximum number is 127. This is substantially in excess of the number (92) required for a model proposed by others which, in addition, requires 18 peripherally located capsomers. Another model, which postulates 180 capsomers located around 92 holes, is also not compatible with our results. Cores possess 12 projections or spikes located on 5-fold vertices, demonstrating that at least these reovirion components are arranged according to icosahedral symmetry principles. Their diameter is 100 A, and they project about half way to the outer surface of the virion. They appear to be hollow at their distal end. It is conceivable that they are the organelles through which transcripts of reovirus genome RNA are released. Dissolution of cores with sodium dodecyl sulfate releases viral RNA as a tightly associated mass of strands which appear to be coiled either randomly or concentrically. These results are discussed with reference to the structure of the reovirion capsid shells, and the possible structure and function of the core spikes.
A Pilot Trial of Prazosin, an Alpha‐1 Adrenergic Antagonist, for Comorbid Alcohol Dependence and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol dependence (AD) frequently co-occur. Estimates from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC) indicate lifetime prevalence of PTSD/AD comorbidity in the U.S. of 1.59%, using DSM-IV criteria (Blanco et al., 2013). Compared with individuals with only one or the other disorder, those with both are more likely to have attempted suicide, to have additional psychiatric disorders, and to endorse more symptoms associated with both PTSD and AD (Blanco et al., 2013). Individuals with comorbid PTSD/AD also report greater disability and treatment seeking than those with AD only (Blanco et al., 2013; Drapkin et al., 2011).
Diversity Among Fibrobacter Isolates: Towards a Phylogenetic Classification

Summary Genetic diversity among 15 strains of Fibrobacter succinogenes and F. intestinalis was evaluated by comparative 16S rRNA sequencing, by estimation of genomic DNA similarity, and by restriction endonuclease digestion patterns. The previous division of the genus into two genetically well-resolved species ( F. succinogenes and F. intestinalis ) was confirmed by the additional comparative studies. All measures of genomic relatedness were consistent. The two species were related at approximately 91 to 93% 16S rRNA sequence similarity and less than 20% genomic DNA similarity. F. succinogenes subsp. elongata was found to comprise three subgroups related at ca 97% 16S rRNA sequence similarity; although subspecies status would be phylogenetically justifiable, difficulties in phenotypic distinction of these subgroups contraindicate formation of additional subspecies. Analysis of all pairwise comparisons showed that 50% DNA-DNA pairing corresponded to approximately 99% 16S rRNA sequence similarity.
Physicochemical properties of the fluoroquinolone antimicrobials. III. Complexation of lomefloxacin with various metal ions and the effect of metal ion complexation on aqueous solubility

Abstract The complexation of lomefloxacin with five metal ions (Al 3+ , Ca 2+ , Mg 2+ , Bi 3+ , and Fe 3+ ) commonly found in antacid or vitamin preparations has been studied at 25°C. The stability constants and stoichiometries were determined by measuring the change of aqueous solubility of lomefloxacin as a function of metal ion concentration. The concentration of lomefloxacin was determined by liquid chromatography. The stoichiometry of binding was confirmed independently by FAB-MS analysis of aqueous solutions of the complexes. The binding constants were dependent on the nature of the metal ion and were related to the charge density. The pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical implications of the effects of metal ion complexation on the aqueous solubility of lomefloxacin are discussed.
Fabrication of small microbridges

A simple, versatile technique for making very small, sturdy, reproducible microbridges is described. When exposed to air, to mechanical shock, or to repeated temperature cycling, the junctions do not deteriorate over long times. They can be as small as 2,000 A wide by 1,000 A long. Methods for obtaining strongly adherent, small-grained, homogeneous tin film, and for the protection of the junctions from electrical pulses, are also described.
Reconstitution of Regulated Phosphorylation of FcϵRI by a Lipid Raft-excluded Protein-tyrosine Phosphatase

To examine the exquisite regulation of IgE-FcepsilonRI tyrosine phosphorylation by Lyn kinase that is stimulated by antigen-mediated cross-linking, we utilized co-expression of FcepsilonRI and Lyn in Chinese hamster ovary cells, which results in high basal levels of Lyn kinase activity and spontaneous phosphorylation of FcepsilonRI. We found that co-expression of a lipid raft-excluded transmembrane tyrosine phosphatase, PTPalpha, suppresses Lyn kinase activity and markedly reduces the level of spontaneous phosphorylation of FcepsilonRI, while facilitating its antigen-stimulated phosphorylation. Other tyrosine phosphatases, including SHP-1, CD45, and a lipid raft-preferring chimeric version of PTPalpha fail to reconstitute antigen-dependent FcepsilonRI phosphorylation. We concluded that both substrate specificity and submembrane location are critical to phosphatase-mediated regulation of Lyn kinase activity that supports activation of FcepsilonRI.
Gamma irradiation: effect of dose and dose rate on development of mature codling moth larvae and adult eclosion

Abstract Codling moth, Cydia pomonella (L.), larvae infest apples, pears and many other fruits and nuts. Mature, nondiapausing, cocooned larvae in fiberboard strips were exposed to γ-irradiation at applied doses ranging from 0 to 98 Gy and dose rates from 0.77 to 204.4 Gy/min and subsequently held to permit further development, pupation and adult emergence. At or above an applied dose of 58 Gy, many of the adults that emerged were physically deformed and most were males. As the applied dose increased from 44 to 98 Gy, the percentage of normal adults decreased, the primary effect shifting from a higher percentage of abnormal adults, pupal mortality, to larval mortility. The effects were more pronounced at higher than at lower dose rates. Insect development apparently was not affected when larvae were irradiated at applied doses up to 31.7 Gy. Significantly more adults emerged when larvae were treated at low dose rates (1.0 Gy/min) than at higher dose rates (204 Gy/min). A rate of 52.2 Gy/min was more effective at preventing adult emergence than rates of 1, 4.4 or 201.5 Gy/min.
Arginine kinase: joint crystallographic and NMR RDC analyses link substrate-associated motions to intrinsic flexibility.

The phosphagen kinase family, including creatine and arginine kinases, catalyze the reversible transfer of a “high energy” phosphate between ATP and a phospho-guanidino substrate. They have become a model for the study of both substrate-induced conformational change and intrinsic protein dynamics. Prior crystallographic studies indicated large substrate-induced domain rotations, but differences among a recent set of arginine kinase structures was interpreted as a plastic deformation. Here, the structure of Limulus substrate-free arginine kinase is refined against high resolution crystallographic data and compared quantitatively with NMR chemical shifts and residual dipolar couplings (RDCs). This demonstrates the feasibility of this type of RDC analysis of proteins that are large by NMR standards (42 kDa), and illuminates the solution structure, free from crystal-packing constraints. Detailed comparison of the 1.7 A resolution substrate-free crystal structure against the 1.2 A transition state analog complex shows large substrate-induced domain motions which can be broken down into movements of smaller quasi-rigid bodies. The solution state structure of substrate-free arginine kinase is most consistent with an equilibrium of substrate-free and –bound structures, with the substrate-free form dominating, but with varying displacements of the quasi-rigid groups. Rigid-group rotations evident from the crystal structures are about axes previously associated with intrinsic millisecond dynamics using NMR relaxation dispersion. Thus, “substrate-induced” motions are along modes that are intrinsically flexible in the substrate-free enzyme, and likely involve some degree of conformational selection.
Specific innervation of muscle fiber types in a developmentally polyinnervated muscle

In neonatal rabbit soleus muscle, different motor units were found to contract with widely varying time courses. Analysis of these data suggest that individual motor units are largely homogeneous for muscle fiber type despite the presence of extensive polyinnervation at birth. We suggest that (1) neonatal motor neurons are effectively differentiated into specific types insofar as they preferentially innervate muscle fibers which give rise to different contraction times, and (2) muscle fibers begin their physiological differentiation into twitch types while still polyinnervated. Possible mechanisms underlying the development of a specific pattern of neuromuscular innervation are discussed.
Disintegration and Dissolution Parameters of Compressed Tablets Prepared by Direct Compression-Wet Granulation Process and Compression of Wet Granulation of Both Sections

AbstractHardness, disintegration and dissolution of compressed tablets were assessed by compressing tablets from granulations prepared by dry and wet granulation process of two sections and by composite wet granulation process. Modified USP XVIII apparatus for disintegration, rotating basket apparatus USP XVIII and constant circulation apparatus were employed for measuring dissolution. The constant circulation apparatus was used in the studies as only it proved to be sensitive to reflect the differences in the dissolution rates and was a close analog of physiological situation. Four types of tablets containing acetylsalicylic acid, codeine phosphate and propoxyphene hydrochloride were prepared. Tablets prepared by partial dry and wet granulation process did not show significant differences in the rates of dissolution as compared to those prepared by complete wet granulation process.
Two Alcohol Binding Residues Interact across a Domain Interface of the L1 Neural Cell Adhesion Molecule and Regulate Cell Adhesion

Ethanol may cause fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) in part by inhibiting cell adhesion mediated by the L1 neural cell adhesion molecule. Azialcohols photolabel Glu-33 and Tyr-418, two residues that are predicted by homology modeling to lie within 2.8 A of each other at the interface between the Ig1 and Ig4 domains of L1 (Arevalo, E., Shanmugasundararaj, S., Wilkemeyer, M. F., Dou, X., Chen, S., Charness, M. E., and Miller, K. W. (2008) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 105, 371–375). Using transient transfection of NIH/3T3 cells with wild type (WT-L1) and mutated L1, we found that cysteine substitution of both residues (E33C/Y418C-L1) significantly increased L1 adhesion above levels observed for WT-L1 or the single cysteine substitutions E33C-L1 or Y418C-L1. The reducing agent β-mercaptoethanol (βME) reversibly decreased the adhesion of E33C/Y418C-L1, but had no effect on WT-L1, E33C-L1, or Y418C-L1. Thus, disulfide bond formation occurs between Cys-33 and Cys-418, confirming both the close proximity of these residues and the importance of Ig1-Ig4 interactions in L1 adhesion. Maximal ethanol inhibition of cell adhesion was significantly lower in cells expressing E33C/Y418C-L1 than in those expressing WT-L1, E33C-L1, or Y418C-L1. Moreover, the effects of βME and ethanol on E33C/Y418C-L1 adhesion were non-additive. The cutoff for alcohol inhibition of WT-L1 adhesion was between 1-butanol and 1-pentanol. Increasing the size of the alcohol binding pocket by mutating Glu-33 to Ala-33, increased the alcohol cutoff from 1-butanol to 1-decanol. These findings support the hypothesis that alcohol binding within a pocket bordered by Glu-33 and Tyr-418 inhibits L1 adhesion by disrupting the Ig1-Ig4 interaction.
Sexual harassment in the heartland? Community opinion on the EEOC suit against Mitsubishi Motor Manufacturing of America

Abstract The number of sexual harassment cases filed annually with the EEOC has more than doubled, from 6000 in 1990 to over 15,000 in 1996, and monetary settlements reached through the EEOC have risen from $7.7 million in 1990 to $27 million in 1996. This article reports the results of a survey of community responses to the sexual harassment suit filed by the EEOC against the Mitsubishi Motor Manufacturer of America (MMMA), plant in Normal, Illinois. Eighty-seven percent of the respondents reported following the case and half said they believe the women’s claims are legitimate. But when asked to assume that they were a member of the jury hearing the sexual harassment case, only 33 percent said they would find MMMA guilty.
Influencing positive financial behaviors: the social marketing solution

Purpose – Influencing positive financial behaviors is the natural next frontier for social marketers to “get serious about”, as there are clear behaviors that, once adopted by target populations, will improve the quality of life for individuals as well as society. The purpose of this paper is to describe a study conducted on behalf of the Consultive Group to Assist the Poor (CGAP), an independent policy and research center dedicated to advancing financial access for the world's poor.Design/methodology/approach – The seven best practices presented in this paper are based on original research undertaken in 2009‐2010 which examined more than 100 cases around the world where a social marketing approach was used to influence a financial behavior.Findings – Relevant behaviors identified, including those related to establishing a bank account, increasing savings, using credit wisely, avoiding over indebtedness, applying for micro finance loans, adopting new technologies, reducing chances of fraud, choosing the r...
Benoxaprofen suppression of polychlorinated biphenyl toxicity without alteration of mixed function oxidase function

Polyhalogenated hydrocarbons are widely distributed environmental pollutants. Several members of the class, including certain polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans and dibenzodioxins, produce a characteristic toxicity syndrome, manifestations of which are increased mortality, oedema, hyperkeratosis, thymic involution and hepatotoxicity. The toxic hydrocarbons are also inducers of cytochrome P448-mediated mixed function oxidases. The toxicity and induction responses both involve initial binding of the hydrocarbon to the same cytosolic receptor, but the subsequent events are not understood. It is not known, for example, whether the toxicity and induction are causally related, or whether they are coordinated but independent aspects of a pleiotropic response. Here we report that benoxaprofen, a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agent, decreases the toxicity of a PCB isomer, 3,4,3',4' tetrachlorobiphenyl (TCB), in the chick embryo and that it does so without altering the degree of mixed function oxidase induction. The independent alteration of PCB toxicity and induction suggests that the two phenomena are not causally related. The decrease in toxicity by benoxaprofen suggests further that products of arachidonic acid metabolism or other mediators of inflammation may have a causal role in halogenated hydrocarbon toxicity.
Humility and the Development and Repair of Social Bonds: Two Longitudinal Studies

A theory of relational humility asserts that humility can promote strengthening social bonds. To complement prior, cross-sectional research on this topic, two longitudinal studies were conducted. In Study 1, college students in romantic relationships (N = 123), all of whom had been hurt or offended by their partners within the last two months, completed measures of humility and unforgiveness for six consecutive weeks. Relational humility predicted unforgiving motives (lagged by one time-point). In Study 2, we examined college students (N = 84) in small groups that did three tasks intended to challenge humility. Round-robin ratings were used over the course of three measurement occasions to evaluate whether trait humility predicted formation of strong social bonds. As predicted, trait humility was associated with greater group status and acceptance. We concluded that, by using longitudinal methods, there is support for the proposition that humility can help repair and form relationships with strong social ...
Enhancing Customer Satisfaction with Food Service in Long Term Care Through Performance Improvement

Abstract Nutrition and Food Service (N&FS) used the FOCUS Plan Do Check Act (PDCA) model for performance improvement to improve food service from the customer's perspective, increase communication between residents and food service, and resolve problems. N&FS organized a team consisting of food service employees, cooks, supervisors, and dietitian that identified the improvements needed. The team collected data using resident surveys and complaints, and identified 13 specifics in need of improvement which were grouped into the following categories: 1) Menu changes, 2) Orientation of food service employees, 3) Training food service employees in customer relations, 4) Improve patient and N&FS communication. The team wrote an action plan, then communicated and implemented it. Some of the actions taken were: include mentor in orientation program, train employees in interpersonal skills and customer relations, remove unpopular menu items and establish a resident food committee. Results showed patient satisfaction scores with food service improved from 3.7 to 4.25 on a scale of 1–5. Ratings for employee courtesy improved from 4.48 to 4.83, liked food served 3.3 to 3.87, and taste 3.43 to 3.72. Patient complaints about food and service have decreased and compliments have increased. Actions planned to hold the gain include implementation of a new menu, continued employee training, and conversion to an advanced food preparation system.
High-Performance Quantitative Robust Switching Control for Optical Telescopes

This paper introduces an innovative robust and nonlinear control design methodology for high-performance servosystems in optical telescopes. The dynamics of optical telescopes typically vary according to azimuth and altitude angles, temperature, friction, speed and acceleration, leading to nonlinearities and plant parameter uncertainty. The methodology proposed in this paper combines robust Quantitative Feedback Theory (QFT) techniques with nonlinear switching strategies that achieve simultaneously the best characteristics of a set of very active (fast) robust QFT controllers and very stable (slow) robust QFT controllers. A general dynamic model and a variety of specifications from several different commercially available amateur Newtonian telescopes are used for the controller design as well as the simulation and validation. It is also proven that the nonlinear/switching controller is stable for any switching strategy and switching velocity, according to described frequency conditions based on common quadratic Lyapunov functions (CQLF) and the circle criterion.
Selecting the Suspect: An Eye-Tracking Comparison of Viewing of Same-Race vs. Cross-Race Photographs in Eyewitness Identification

An eye-tracking study was conducted to examine cross-race recognition deficit (CRRD) or own-race bias in cross-racial eyewitness identification. The eye-tracking data revealed differences between Anglo eyewitness viewing and African American eyewitness viewing of the same-race photo lineups. Variations in scan path complexity and sequential patterns suggest a “mixed strategy” for scanning the photographic lineups was more common than an “absolute” or “relative” strategy.
Optical emission from Ga ionization at a field emitter

When gallium is ionized on the cap of a field emitter, the optical emission emerges from right at the cap of the emitter. This optical emission was spectroscopically studied using an optical multichannel analyzer with a resolution of 1.3 A over the range 1850–6500 A.The dominant emission is due to Ga I radiation and is likely due to the two‐body collision between atomic gallium and electrons.