cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Water vapor trends over Boulder, Colorado

Water vapor in the atmosphere is responsible for a significant portion of the greenhouse effect, and even small changes in the upper troposphere or lower stratosphere can have a large effect on climate. A new analysis of water vapor measurements by balloon-borne frost point hygrometers over Boulder, Colo., shows that stratospheric water vapor has increased over the past 30 years. Hurst et al. broke the long measurement record into four discrete time periods and determined the water vapor trends in each period for five 2-kilometer-thick stratospheric layers (16–26 kilometers in altitude). The scientists found that, on average, stratospheric water vapor increased by about 1 part per million by volume (27%) over the past 30 years, though there were many shorter-term variations in the record. Water vapor levels increased during 1980–1989 and 1990–2000, decreased from 2001 to 2005, and then increased again after 2005. The authors found that, at most, 30% of the observed water vapor increases can be attributed to greater amounts of methane oxidation in the stratosphere. The 2001–2005 decrease in midlatitude water vapor has been linked to observations of anomalously low tropopause temperatures in the tropics, but, to date, no connection between the observed water vapor increases and tropical tropopause temperatures has been found despite ongoing efforts. (Journal of Geophysical Research-Atmospheres, doi:10.1029/2010JD015065, 2011)
Neural Explant Cultures from Xenopus laevis.

The complex process of axon guidance is largely driven by the growth cone, which is the dynamic motile structure at the tip of the growing axon. During axon outgrowth, the growth cone must integrate multiple sources of guidance cue information to modulate its cytoskeleton in order to propel the growth cone forward and accurately navigate to find its specific targets1. How this integration occurs at the cytoskeletal level is still emerging, and examination of cytoskeletal protein and effector dynamics within the growth cone can allow the elucidation of these mechanisms. Xenopus laevis growth cones are large enough (10-30 microns in diameter) to perform high-resolution live imaging of cytoskeletal dynamics (e.g.2-4 ) and are easy to isolate and manipulate in a lab setting compared to other vertebrates. The frog is a classic model system for developmental neurobiology studies, and important early insights into growth cone microtubule dynamics were initially found using this system5-7 . In this method8, eggs are collected and fertilized in vitro, injected with RNA encoding fluorescently tagged cytoskeletal fusion proteins or other constructs to manipulate gene expression, and then allowed to develop to the neural tube stage. Neural tubes are isolated by dissection and then are cultured, and growth cones on outgrowing neurites are imaged. In this article, we describe how to perform this method, the goal of which is to culture Xenopus laevis growth cones for subsequent high-resolution image analysis. While we provide the example of +TIP fusion protein EB1-GFP, this method can be applied to any number of proteins to elucidate their behaviors within the growth cone.
High-efficiency Ku-band HBT amplifier with 1 W CW output power

A compact, high-voltage AlGaAs/GaAs HBT was developed for applications in the Ku band using carbon-doped base structures. A single unit-cell device, operating under common-emitter mode and 10 V collector bias, produced 1.0 W CW output power at 15 GHz with 5.0 dB gain and 42% power-added efficiency. The power density of the device was a record 5.6 W/mm of emitter length.
Integrated-blanket-coil applications in the TITAN-I reversed-field pinch reactor

Abstract The TITAN-I Reversed-Field Pinch reactor incorporates the Integrated-Blanket-Coil (IBC) concept for the toroidal field and divertor field coil systems. The IBC approach combines the breeding and energy recovery functions of the blanket with the magnetic field production of the coils in a single component. This is accomplished by passing the current through the liquid metal coolant, lithium, which flows poloidally around the plasma. A reversed-field pinch reactor offers an attractive context for IBC coils since the low toroidal field at the plasma surface (∼ 0.36 T) leads to relatively low coil currents. Design of IBC components addresses four areas: (1) neutronics, including tritium breeding and blanket energy multiplication; (2) thermal hydraulics, including magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) pressure drops; (3) magnetics, including field magnitude and topology; and (4) electrical engineering of the circuit determining the power supply requirements. The TF-IBC approach, in comparison to copper coils, offers several advantages for a compact RFP reactor: increased access for coolant and auxiliary services, improved viability for single-piece maintenance, and reduced magnetic ripple in the toroidal magnetic field. In the divertor system, improved magnetic coupling and additional energy recovery and tritium breeding enhance the attractiveness of the IBC relative to copper coils.
The defining issues test of moral judgment development

A measure of moral judgment development, the Defining Issues Test ( dit) is described and the supporting evidence for the measure is summarized. We address these questions: what does the dit measure; how does the measure work, and how has the measure been validated? The psychometric properties of the dit are also presented. We suggest that the current evidence supports the dit as a reliable and valid measure of the characteristic ways adolescents and adults comprehend moral issues. he Defining Issues Test (hereafter the DIT ) was first developed in the early 1970s (Cooper, Coder, Masanz and Anderson, 1974). Originally the measure was described as a paper and pencil alternative to Lawrence Kohlberg's (1969) semi-structured interview measure of moral judgment development (Rest, 1979). As such, the primary focus of the measure was an assessment of the understanding and interpretation of moral issues. Consistent with the Kohlbergian model, Rest viewed moral judgment devel- opment as a social and cognitive construct that progressed from a self-focused view of moral issues, through a group-based moral perspective, to a reliance on post-conventional moral principles. Also consistent with Kohlberg, Rest viewed moral judgments as primarily cognitive and a primary factor in the understanding of moral actions and emotions. In short and during the 70s the DIT was viewed as a measure designed to test Kohlberg's developmental sequence and contribute to the development of moral judgment theory in adolescent and adult populations.
Reducing Climate Change through CPV Development

Climatologists attribute the warming of the Earth over the last 50 years to the increased greenhouse gases that are being expelled in the atmosphere in large part due to power production. This paper analyzes the various methods used in fossil fuel and renewable power production discussing their respective emission and efficiency rates. A closer look on solar power, specifically concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) systems, is presented. Photovoltaic efficiencies have been shown to increase from the standard 12% to 30% by using concentrators and tracking systems. A concept for sun tracking and Fresnel lens concentrator components using liquid crystal material is proposed. Using inexpensive liquid crystal material, these concepts have potential to improve PV efficiencies while maintaining a low overall system cost.
Creep of polymer networks undergoing scission reactions

Abstract We have carried out a set of experiments to test the accuracy of two procedures, one suggested by Curro and Salazar and the other by Moacanin, Aklonis, and Landel, in predicting the behavior of polymer networks which are simultaneously chemically reacting and physically relaxing. The chemical reaction utilized was a photoinduced scission of disulfide linkages which had been incorporated into the network; thus the reaction could be turned on and off at will. The necessary input data to support the calculations were measured directly on the experimental samples under conditions where no chemical reactions occurred. Our results show that the behavior predicted by the technique of Moacanin et al. is in good agreement with that observed experimentally.
Free Heme and the Polymerization of Sickle Cell Hemoglobin

In search of novel control parameters for the polymerization of sickle cell hemoglobin (HbS), the primary pathogenic event of sickle cell anemia, we explore the role of free heme, which may be excessively released in sickle erythrocytes. We show that the concentration of free heme in HbS solutions typically used in the laboratory is 0.02-0.04 mole heme/mole HbS. We show that dialysis of small molecules out of HbS solutions arrests HbS polymerization. The addition of 100-260 μM of free heme to dialyzed HbS solutions leads to rates of nucleation and polymer fiber growth faster by two orders of magnitude than before dialysis. Toward an understanding of the mechanism of nucleation enhancement by heme, we show that free heme at a concentration of 66 μM increases by two orders of magnitude the volume of the metastable clusters of dense HbS liquid, the locations where HbS polymer nuclei form. These results suggest that spikes of the free heme concentration in the erythrocytes of sickle cell anemia patients may be a significant factor in the complexity of the clinical manifestations of sickle cell anemia. The prevention of free heme accumulation in the erythrocyte cytosol may be a novel avenue to sickle cell therapy.
Reidian Dual Component Theory defended

For Reid perception, broadly speaking, was a complex of two very different mental states. Calling such views dual component theory, A. D. Smith questions whether any such theory, and whether Reid's version in particular, is a viable theory of perception. The aim of this paper is to defend Reidian Dual Component Theory from Smith's critique. Answering Smith's critique reveals the depth and resilience of Reid's approach to perception, highlighting specifically the continued interest of his thought about the relationship between sensation and perception, the nature of illusion, the immediacy of perception, and the content of perceptual belief.
Oncogenic Ras and B-Raf Proteins Positively Regulate Death Receptor 5 Expression through Co-activation of ERK and JNK Signaling*

Oncogenic mutations of ras and B-raf frequently occur in many cancer types and are critical for cell transformation and tumorigenesis. Death receptor 5 (DR5) is a cell surface pro-apoptotic death receptor for tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand and has been targeted in cancer therapy. The current study has demonstrated induction of DR5 expression by the oncogenic proteins Ras and B-Raf and revealed the underlying mechanisms. We demonstrated that both Ras and B-Raf induce DR5 expression by enforced expression of oncogenic Ras (e.g. H-Ras12V or K-Ras12V) or B-Raf (i.e. V600E) in cells and by analyzing gene expression array data generated from cancer cell lines and from human cancer tissues. This finding is further supported by our results that knockdown of endogenous K-Ras or B-Raf (V600E) reduced the expression of DR5. Importantly, we have elucidated that Ras induces DR5 expression through co-activation of ERK/RSK and JNK signaling pathways and subsequent cooperative effects among the transcriptional factors CHOP, Elk1, and c-Jun to enhance DR5 gene transcription. Moreover, we found that the majority of cancer cell lines highly sensitive to the DR5 agonistic antibody AMG655 have either Ras or B-Raf mutations. Our findings warrant further study on the biology of DR5 regulation by Ras and B-Raf, which may provide new insight into the biology of Ras and B-Raf, and on the potential impact of Ras or B-Raf mutations on the outcome of DR5-targeted cancer therapy.
CANONICAL PERTURBATION TREATMENT OF A RYDBERG ELECTRON IN COMBINED ELECTRIC AND MAGNETIC FIELDS

We analyze the motion of a Rydberg electron in combined external electric and magnetic fields using different levels of classical perturbation theory. Important dynamical properties of these systems are captured analytically through adiabatic invariants, and three widely different time scales for motion are identified. The hydrogen atom in tilted electric and magnetic fields, the hydrogen atom in combined magnetic and circularly polarized microwave fields, and the generalized van der Waals interaction are among the cases we examine.
Orientation and self-assembly of cylindrical particles by anisotropic capillary interactions.

In this research, we study cylindrical microparticles at fluid interfaces. Cylinders orient and assemble with high reliability to form end-to-end chains in dilute surfaces or dense rectangular lattices in crowded surfaces owing to capillary interactions. In isolation, a cylinder assumes one of two possible equilibrium states, the end-on state, in which the cylinder axis is perpendicular to the interface, or the side-on state, in which the cylinder axis is parallel to the interface. A phase diagram relating aspect ratio and contact angle is constructed to predict the preferred state and verified in experiment. Cylinders in the side-on state create distortions that result in capillary interactions. Overlapping deformations by neighboring particles drive oriented capillary assembly. Interferometry, electron microscopy, and numerical simulations are used to characterize the interface shape around isolated particles. Experiments and numerics show that “side-on” cylinders have concentrated excess area near the ...
A novel hydrophilic polymer membrane for the dehydration of organic solvents

Abstract Novel hydrophilic polymer membranes based on cross-linked mixtures of poly(allylamine hydrochloride)–poly(vinyl alcohol) are developed. The high selectivity and flux characteristics of these membranes for the dehydration of organic solvents are evaluated using pervaporation technology and are found to be very promising when compared to existing membranes.
Radiation-induced morphea occurring after fluoroscopy.

Abstract We describe a patient in whom radiation-induced morphea developed after undergoing fluoroscopically guided repair of an abdominal aortic aneurysm. (J Am Acad Dermatol 2002;47:962-4.)
A developmental approach to language acquisition: two case studies

The aim of this article is to revitalize and extend functionalist approaches to language use and language acquisition by utilizing a theory which focuses on general issues of human development. The...
Effects of chronic cocaine self-administration on norepinephrine transporters in the nonhuman primate brain.

Rationale While cocaine blocks dopamine and serotonin transporters, considerably less emphasis has been placed on its effects following blockade of the norepinephrine transporter (NET). To date, no studies have made a systematic investigation of the effects of chronic cocaine on primate NET density.
Early Damage Mechanisms in Nuclear Grade Graphite under Irradiation

Using Raman and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, we delineate the bond and defect structures in nuclear block graphite (NBG-18) under neutron and ion irradiation. The strengthening of the defect (D) peak in the Raman spectra under irradiation is attributed to an increase in the topological, sp2-hybridized defects. Using transmission electron microscopy, we provide evidence for prismatic dislocations as well as a number of basal dislocations dissociating into Shockley partials. The non-vanishing D peak in the Raman spectra, together with a generous number of dislocations, even at low irradiation doses, indicates a dislocation-mediated amorphization process in graphite.
A prospective longitudinal study of chemotherapy-induced cognitive changes in breast cancer patients

Evidence for chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment remains inconclusive. This study was designed to determine the trajectory of cognitive function over time in women with breast cancer, who received doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide (AC) alone or followed by a taxane. Associations between changes in cognitive function and potential covariates including anxiety, depression, fatigue, hemoglobin level, menopausal status, and perception of cognitive function were evaluated. The Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status, Stroop Test, and Grooved Pegboard were used to assess cognitive function in a group of 71 women prior to chemotherapy, a week after completing the last cycle of AC, as well as 1 week and 6 months after the completion of all chemotherapy. Cognitive impairment was found in 23% of women prior to chemotherapy. Hierarchical linear modeling showed significant decreases after receiving chemotherapy followed by improvements 6 months after the completion of chemotherapy in the cognitive domains of visuospatial skill (p < 0.001), attention (p = 0.022), delayed memory (p = 0.006), and motor function (p = 0.043). In contrast, immediate memory, language, and executive function scores did not change over time. These results suggest that having a breast cancer diagnosis may be associated with cognitive impairment. While chemotherapy may have a negative impact on cognitive function, chemotherapy-related impairments appear to be more acute than chronic side effects of therapy. Further studies are needed to provide insight into the clinical significance and potential mechanisms of cancer and treatment-related cognitive impairments.
Cardiac nitric oxide production due to angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition decreases beta-adrenergic myocardial contractility in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy

AbstractOBJECTIVESThis study tested the hypothesis that angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors attenuate beta-adrenergic contractility in patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (DC...
Performance of a Multiuser Downlink System Applying Thresholding Feedback with Imperfect Channel Information

We consider a multiuser downlink system where the base station (BS) only has imperfect channel quality information (CQI) due to both feedback delay and estimation error at the receiver. Using coherent detection, the signal portion due to delay is accommodated while the estimation error is random and can be considered as noise. A thresholding feedback scheme is used to reduce the overall amount of feedback which is typically set by the system. Then, a fixed rate and a variable rate transmission scheme are analyzed which are then optimized to obtain the highest average system goodput. By using variable rate with optimized parameters, system goodput increases significantly in comparison with the fixed rate strategy. The feedback delay is shown to affect system performance with the severity increasing over time. Finally, the match between analysis and simulation are verified by the experiments.
The immediate and short-term effect of successful percutaneous coronary intervention on repolarization in acute myocardial infarction patients.

Objectives: The primary objective was to assess the immediate and short-term impact of successful percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) on QT dispersion (QT disp) and corrected QT dispersion (QTc disp). Secondarily, the impact of PCI on QT and QTc disp within different infarct-related arteries and the impact of successful PCI in these different arteries were evaluated. Methods: Patients (n = 140, age 61.6 ± 12.9, 69% male) undergoing direct primary PCI for acute Ml were evaluated. Twelve-lead ECGs were obtained before baseline), immediately after (0 h), 24hours after, and 3 days after PCI. The QT and QTc interval in each of the 12-leads were measured and the shortest interval was subtracted from the longest to derive the QT disp and QTc disp, respectively. Results: Angiography showed blockages in the left anterior descending, right coronary artery, and circumflex in 37.1, 48.9, and 15.0% of patients, respectively. Overall, 97 patients achieved successful reflow. QT and QTc disp were significantly improved in the group with successful reflow at each follow-up time after PCI versus baseline and corresponding values in the unsuccessful reflow group. QT disp was improved among patients with successful reflow irrespective of which infarct artery was responsible for the acute myocardial infarction. Conclusions: Successful reflow with PCI is associated with a rapid reduction in QT disp and QTc disp that is maintained for at least 3 days after the event. Conversely, unsuccessful reflow was not associated with significant reductions in QT or QTc disp. A.N.E. 2002;7(4):357–362
Unique relations of age and delinquency with cognitive control.

Context processing has significant empirical support as an explanation of age- and psychopathology-related deficiencies in cognitive control. We examined whether context processing generalizes to younger individuals who are in trouble with the law. We tested whether age and delinquency might have unique relations to context processing skills in four samples of male participants: adolescent offenders (n = 43), control adolescents (n = 33), young adult offenders (n = 40), and control young adults (n = 31). We used a modified Stroop task to measure context processing (i.e., attention, memory, and response inhibition). Task performance was superior for older participants in conditions most demanding of context processing skills. Adolescent offenders and control adolescents showed difficulties engaging selective attention to filter out irrelevant information, even after controlling for the effects of age. Control adolescents made the most errors in the condition most demanding of context processing, whereas the other three samples showed slower processing but fewer errors in context processing.
Mitogen stimulation of canine normal and myasthenia gravis lymphocytes.

Abstract Responses of canine lymphoid tissues to mitogens were studied in five normal dogs and in two dogs with acquired myasthenia gravis (MG). In the normal dogs, lymph-node-derived lymphocytes gave the most consistent proliferative responses to concanavalin A (Con A), phytohemagglutinin (PHA), and pokeweed mitogen (PWM), as determined by thymidine incorporation; and in most cases PHA, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and PWM stimulated total IgG production, as determined by ELISA. Splenic lymphocytes had the greatest capacity for increased total IgG production. In the myasthenic dogs total IgG production by unstimulated lymph-node-derived lymphocytes was 88 μg/ml and 153 μg/ml, much higher than that of unstimulated normal dog lymphocytes (mean
Are optometric faculty guilty of ageism

Ageism (negative feelings toward the elderly) is common among health care students and impacts upon the delivery of health care. Education serves to promote positive attitudes toward the elderly and alleviates ageism. As role models, faculty in the health professions influence student attitudes and can affect the development of ageism in students. This study was designed to evaluate whether optometric faculty are guilty of ageism. Twenty-nine optometry faculty and 83 optometry students were surveyed using Palmore's "Facts on Aging Quiz: Part 1" (FAQ1). The mean percent score for faculty was 64.14% as compared to a student mean percent score of 63.96% (p = 0.9422, t-test). The faculty also exhibited a larger anti-age bias than the students. Thus, optometry faculty do possess prejudicial attitudes toward older adults and would benefit from increased education in the field of geriatrics.
THE EFFECT OF THE 1986 TAX REFORM ACT ON EX-DIVIDEND DAY RETURN BEHAVIOR

In this study I examine whether the Tax Reform Act of 1986 has an effect on ex-date stock return behavior. Results indicate that the tax reform has a significant effect on ex-date returns for NASDAQ stocks, but not for NYSE/AMEX stocks. Further analysis suggests that the ex-date returns on NASDAQ stocks are primarily determined by the tax premium. However, the ex-date returns on NYSE/AMEX stocks are more influenced by short-term trading.
The role of job embeddedness in the relationship between bullying and aggression

In this article, the role that job embeddedness plays in the relationship between workplace bullying and aggression both inside and outside the workplace is examined. In a sample of 165 working adults, individuals who report being the target of workplace bullying are more likely to act aggressively themselves, targeting their co-workers as well as their friends, family, and significant others. Furthermore, the relationship between workplace bullying and aggression is strengthened for individuals who are highly embedded in their job. These relationships are found even after controlling for two similar attachment constructs, namely job satisfaction and affective organizational commitment.
Limited Uptake of Hepatitis C Treatment Among Injection Drug Users

We characterized hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment knowledge, experience and barriers in a cohort of community-based injection drug users (IDUs) in Baltimore, MD. In 2005, a questionnaire on HCV treatment knowledge, experience and barriers was administered to HCV-infected IDUs. Self-reported treatment was confirmed from medical records. Of 597 participants, 71% were male, 95% African-American, 31% HIV co-infected and 94% were infected with HCV genotype 1; 70% were aware that treatment was available, but only 22% understood that HCV could be cured. Of 418 who had heard of treatment, 86 (21%) reported an evaluation by a provider that included a discussion of treatment of whom 30 refused treatment, 20 deferred and 36 reported initiating treatment (6% overall). The most common reasons for refusal were related to treatment-related perceptions and a low perceived need of treatment. Compared to those who had discussed treatment with their provider, those who had not were more likely to be injecting drugs, less likely to have health insurance, and less knowledgeable about treatment. Low HCV treatment effectiveness was observed in this IDU population. Comprehensive integrated care strategies that incorporate education, case-management and peer support are needed to improve care and treatment of HCV-infected IDUs.
Preliminary Physiological and Psychophysical Guidelines for Continuous Lifting Tasks

The objective of this research was to study the effects of task parameters on physiological and psychophysical limits for prolonged lifting activities. The results of this study indicate that (1) The endurance time of individuals decreased with the increase of the frequency and the weight of load, and (2) physiological responses are dependent on lifting task parameters.
Precipitation and complex solubility of zirconium sulfate

The solubility boundaries of systems obtained by mixing aqueous zirconium nitrate solutions with solutions of lithium-, potassium-, or magnesium-sulfate were determined as a function of pH. Distinct complex solubility ranges have been established in the excess of zirconium and sulfate salts, respectively.
Evolution of a histone H4-K16 acetyl-specific DNA aptamer.

We report the in vitro selection of DNA aptamers that bind to histone H4 proteins acetylated at lysine 16. The best aptamer identified in this selection binds to the target protein with a Kd of 21 nM and discriminates against both the nonacetylated protein and histone H4 proteins acetylated at lysine 8. Comparative binding assays performed with a chip-quality antibody reveal that this aptamer binds to the acetylated histone target with similar affinity to a commercial antibody but shows significantly greater specificity (15-fold versus 2400-fold) for the target molecule. This result demonstrates that aptamers that are both modification and location specific can be generated to bind specific protein post-translational modifications.
Self-rotating dc atmospheric-pressure discharge over a water-surface electrode: regimes of operation

A dc atmospheric-pressure glow discharge produced between a metallic electrode and a water electrode is studied in this experiment. The discharge is characterized by means of visualization, high-speed imaging, voltage–current measurements, mass spectrometry and temperature measurements. Under certain conditions, the discharge exhibits a distinctive rotating motion in which the cathode spot remains stationary and the anode spot traces a circular pattern. Regimes of rotation occur in general at lower currents, at larger discharge gap lengths and when the water surface is the anode. Temperature measurements made in the rotating and stationary regimes show similar trends. Various metallic electrode materials, electrode geometries and discharge gases are investigated to determine the conditions under which rotation occurs. Rotation is only observed with a smooth cathode and a non-oxidizing anode material, such as water (or gold surface) that is either flat or otherwise provides no hindrances to the movement of the anode spot. Rotation is observed to occur in air and N2–H2 mixtures but not in pure N2, H2 or He; this suggests chemical mechanisms resulting in the formation of electronegative species as a possible cause for the rotation. Finally, measurements of the frequency of rotation of the discharge with respect to discharge length and current are made. These qualitative and quantitative results are used to evaluate various types of interactions as potential causes of this behavior.
A Model for Scaffolding Writing Instruction: IMSCI

The IMSCI model for teaching writing scaffolds the instruction so that students understand the features of a genre, see the teacher model writing a text in the target genre, participate in the creation of a text in the genre (through shared or collaborative writing), and independently write a text in the genre. This model is based on social learning theory and best practices in the instruction of English-language learners. An extended example of students writing historical fiction is provided, including images that show teacher modeling and student work.
Transfection Mechanisms of Polyplexes, Lipoplexes, and Stealth Liposomes in α5β1 Integrin Bearing DLD-1 Colorectal Cancer Cells

Receptor targeted, PEGylated transfection agents can improve stability and delivery specificity of current cationic lipid and polymer based nonviral gene delivery vehicles, but their mode of transfection is poorly understood. We therefore investigated the transfection mechanisms of 1,2-dioleoyl-3-trimethylammonium-propane (DOTAP)/1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (DOPE) lipoplexes, branched polyethylenimine (bPEI) polyplexes, and bPEI encapsulated in either PEGylated (stealth) nontargeted liposomes or PR_b peptide (targeted to α5β1 integrin) functionalized stealth liposomes in DLD-1 colorectal cancer cells in vitro with gene expression assays, flow cytometry and confocal microscopy. DOTAP/DOPE and PR_b functionalized stealth liposomes mediated higher gene expression compared to nontargeted stealth liposomes and bPEI. However DOTAP/DOPE was internalized slowly leading to lower levels of DNA uptake. In contrast, despite high internalization of bPEI polyplexes, gene expression levels were low as DNA was unable to escape from the endosomes. Nontargeted stealth liposomes also mediated low gene expression due to low amounts of DNA internalized and slow internalization kinetics. PR_b functionalized stealth liposomes struck an optimal balance among these transfection agents with efficient transfection arising from fast integrin mediated internalization kinetics, high amounts of DNA uptake, and endosomal escape. We found α5β1 integrin to be a valuable target for gene delivery and that the caveolar endocytic pathway may offer an advantage to receptor targeted PEGylated transfection agents in DLD-1 cells.
Management of liver adenomatosis: Results with a conservative surgical approach

Liver adenomatosis is defined by the presence of multiple hepatic adenomas (more than three lesions). The natural history and treatment of liver adenomatosis are not yet well defined. The Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN) experience with liver adenomatosis in the past 11 years was reviewed and a rational treatment approach is presented. Records from patients with liver adenomatosis and hepatic adenoma seen at the Mayo Clinic from January 1986 to June 1997 were reviewed. Estrogen- and progesterone-receptor status was assessed by immunohistochemistry. Eight women with liver adenomatosis were identified. All patients had undergone surgical treatment. Abdominal pain was the presenting symptom in 87.5% of the patients with adenomatosis and in 42.1% of the patients with hepatic adenoma. Tumor bleeding was present in 62.5% of the patients with adenomatosis and in 26.3% of the patients with hepatic adenomas. Bleeding occurred predominantly in lesions greater than 4 cm. All patients with liver adenomatosis reported improvement of symptoms after surgery, and the mean bleeding-free period after resection in 5 patients was 52.6 +/- 23.6 months. In 6 patients, estrogen receptor-positive and estrogen receptor-negative tumors were identified in the same liver. Based on the good outcome after resection in symptomatic patients with liver adenomatosis, we recommend resection of large (>/=5 cm) or symptomatic lesions with observation of smaller lesions (</=3 cm). Lack of estrogen receptors in many lesions suggests that estrogen does not play a dominant role in the pathogenesis of liver adenomatosis.
Emerging advances in nanomedicine with engineered gold nanostructures

Gold nanostructures possess unique characteristics that enable their use as contrast agents, as therapeutic entities, and as scaffolds to adhere functional molecules, therapeutic cargo, and targeting ligands. Due to their ease of synthesis, straightforward surface functionalization, and non-toxicity, gold nanostructures have emerged as powerful nanoagents for cancer detection and treatment. This comprehensive review summarizes the progress made in nanomedicine with gold nanostructures (1) as probes for various bioimaging techniques including dark-field, one-photon and two-photon fluorescence, photothermal optical coherence tomography, photoacoustic tomography, positron emission tomography, and surface-enhanced Raman scattering based imaging, (2) as therapeutic components for photothermal therapy, gene and drug delivery, and radiofrequency ablation, and (3) as a theranostic platform to simultaneously achieve both cancer detection and treatment. Distinct from other published reviews, this article also discusses the recent advances of gold nanostructures as contrast agents and therapeutic actuators for inflammatory diseases including atherosclerotic plaque and arthritis. For each of the topics discussed above, the fundamental principles and progress made in the past five years are discussed. The review concludes with a detailed future outlook discussing the challenges in using gold nanostructures, cellular trafficking, and translational considerations that are imperative for rapid clinical viability of plasmonic nanostructures, as well as the significance of emerging technologies such as Fano resonant gold nanostructures in nanomedicine.
Stem and progenitor cells for neurological repair: Minor issues, major hurdles, and exciting opportunities for paracrine‐based therapeutics

The transplantation of cultured stem and progenitor cells is a key element in the rapidly growing field of regenerative medicine. Based on their ability to rescue and/or repair injured tissue and partially restore organ function, multiple types of stem/progenitor cells have already entered into clinical trials. However, despite several decades of intense research, the goal to apply culture-expanded stem/progenitor cells in a manner that can effectively replace cells after injury has yet to be realized. Many sources of potentially useful cells are available, but something is clearly missing. In addition, recent studies suggest that paracrine effects of secreted or released factors are responsible for most of the benefits observed after cell transplantation, rather than direct cell replacement. These data call into question the need for cell transplantation for many types of therapy, in particular for acute injuries such as myocardial infarction and stroke. In this review, we examine current progress in the area of cell transplantation and minor issues and major hurdles regarding the clinical application of different cell types. We discuss the “paracrine hypothesis” for the action of transplanted stem/progenitor cells as an opportunity to identify defined combinations of biomolecules to rescue and/or repair tissues after injury. Although many of the concepts in this review will apply to multiple injury/repair systems, we will focus primarily on stem/progenitor cell-based treatments for neurological disorders and stroke. J. Cell. Biochem. 112: 374–380, 2011. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
In vitro and in vivo culture of mouse peripheral blood for chromosome preparations.

SummaryThe in vitro and in vivo culture methods for consistently obtaining mitotic divisions suitable for chromosome analysis from peripheral blood of various mouse strains have been described. In the in vitro culture system pokeweed was used as the mitogenic agent. The DNA-synthesis and mitotic activity commenced much earlier than in the diffusion chamber cultures in which the allogeneic or heterologous environment provided the mitogenic stimulus. In the latter system cells could be maintained for at least 7 days. Mitoses were still frequent at this time.
Formation and fundamental characteristics of novel free-running helium inductively coupled plasmas

This report is the first study on the formation, stabilization and fundamental investigation of free-running helium inductively coupled plasmas (He ICPs). The plasma was operated at 600–900 W with a total helium gas flow of less than 10 L min−1. The shape and the physical appearance of free-running helium plasmas differ markedly from the He ICP sources reported previously using a crystal-controlled generator. Although the free-running helium plasma appears annular, high-speed video studies reveal that the plasma rotates at a frequency of 75–275 Hz. Lateral profiles of emission spectra of the free-running discharge viewed end-on provide rotational temperature (Trot), excitation temperature (Texc), and electron number density (ne) of 1600–1800 K, 3800–4300 K, and 3.0 to 12 × 1013 cm−3, respectively. These fundamental characteristics are compared to those reported previously for crystal-controlled He ICPs and Ar ICPs.
Factors Differentiating High and Low Participants in Lifelong Learning

The present study explored, among human service professionals, the characteristics which differentiated between lifelong learners and low participants in learning. The Characteristics of Lifelong Learners in the Professions (CLLP) Survey was administered to human service professionals in Southern New England. The responses (n= 195) of the study participants to the survey were factor analyzed, and the factors orthogonally rotated. Factor scales corresponding to the seven CLLP extracted factors and three selected demographic variables were, then, submitted to stepwise discriminant function analysis. The two groups-lifelong learners and low participants in learning-were found to differ significantly on the discriminant function composed of the following five CLLP factors: Educability, Readiness for Change, Future Orientation, Causation for Learning Participation, and Familial Educational Background. None of the demographic variables included contributed significantly to group discrimination. The results are ...
Enhanced neurovirulence of tick-borne orbiviruses resulting from genetic modulation.

Abstract The genome of orbiviruses (Reoviridae family) comprises 10 segments of double-stranded RNA. The fourth largest segment of the tick-borne Kemerovo (KEM) group orbiviruses is the genetic determinant of neurovirulence in experimentally infected mice, and segment 6 determines serotype. Reassortant viruses derived from a cross between two KEM-related viruses, Great Island (GI) and Wexford (WEX), that had the heterotypic gene combination W 4 G 6 (segment 4 of WEX virus and segment 6 from GI virus) were nonpathogenic in mice. This apparent genetic modulation of neurovirulence may have resulted from steric interaction between the two outer capsid proteins of nonpathogenic reassortants. Further data are consistent with this hypothesis. Reassortants generated from additional KEM group viruses showed various degrees of enhanced neurovirulence in terms of their PFU/LD5o (ratio of infectivity in cell culture and in mice) and AST max (the average survival time at the highest virus dilution resulting in 100% mortality). Some reassortants were more pathogenic of their parental viruses. The results indicate that the gene determining neurovirulence dictates AST max , and the PFU/LD 50 is a measure of the interaction between the products of the gene determining neurovirulence and that determining serotype. The nonpathogenic phenotype of a low passage isolate (St. Abb's 84-34 virus), derived from a single tick, generated neurovirulent reassortants. This result indicates that genetic modulation of KEM group viruses may occur in nature.
The effect of finiteness on the self-trapping of an electron in a one-dimensional lattice

Abstract The competition in the ground state between the “single site” symmetry due to the electron-lattice interaction and the “two-site” symmetry which exists in even-N lattices causes the electron to abruptly localize on a single site when the electron-phonon coupling exceeds a threshold. The relative sizes of the electronic wavefunction and of the lattice affect the dependence of the energy on N.
Spectral-peak selection in spectral-shape discrimination by normal-hearing and hearing-impaired listeners

Spectral-shape discrimination thresholds were measured in the presence and absence of noise to determine whether normal-hearing and hearing-impaired listeners rely primarily on spectral peaks in the excitation pattern when discriminating between stimuli with different spectral shapes. Standard stimuli were the sum of 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 20, or 30 equal-amplitude tones with frequencies fixed between 200 and 4000Hz. Signal stimuli were generated by increasing and decreasing the levels of every other standard component. The function relating the spectral-shape discrimination threshold to the number of components (N) showed an initial decrease in threshold with increasing N and then an increase in threshold when the number of components reached 10 and 6, for normal-hearing and hearing-impaired listeners, respectively. The presence of a 50-dB SPL/Hz noise led to a 1.7dB increase in threshold for normal-hearing listeners and a 3.5dB increase for hearing-impaired listeners. Multichannel modeling and the relatively s...
Toward more rational prediction of outcome in patients with high-grade subarachnoid hemorrhage.

OBJECTIVE: Accurate outcome prediction after high-grade subarachnoid hemorrhage remains imprecise. Several clinical grading scales are in common use, but the timing of grading and changes in grade after admission have not been carefully evaluated. We hypothesized that these latter factors could have a significant impact on outcome prediction. METHODS: Fifty-six consecutive patients with altered mental status after subarachnoid hemorrhage, who were managed at a single institution, were studied retrospectively. On the basis of prospectively assessed elements of the clinical examination, each patient was graded at admission, at best before treatment, at worst before treatment, immediately before treatment, and at best within 24 hours after treatment of the aneurysm using the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), the World Federation of Neurological Surgeons (WFNS) scale, and the Hunt and Hess scale. Outcome at 6 months was determined using a modification of the Glasgow Outcome Scale validated against the Karnofsky scale. All grades and clinical and radiographic data collected were compared among good and poor outcome groups. Multivariate analyses were then performed to determine which grading scale, which time of grading, and which other factors were correlated with and contributed significantly to outcome prediction. RESULTS: A good outcome was achieved in 24 (43%) of 56 patients. Our study also had a 32% mortality rate. With the Hunt and Hess scale, only the worst pretreatment grade was significantly correlated with outcome. However, with the GCS and the WFNS scale, grading at all pretreatment times was significantly correlated with outcome, although outcome was best predicted before treatment, regardless of the scale used, if grading was performed at the patient's clinical worst. Multivariate analysis revealed that the best predictor of outcome was WFNS grade at clinical worst before treatment. Used alone, a WFNS Grade 3 at worst pretreatment predicted a 75% favorable outcome, and a WFNS Grade 5 at worst pretreatment predicted an 87% poor outcome. No significant correlation was found between direction or magnitude of change in grade and outcome. Age was found to be significantly correlated with outcome, but it was only an independent factor in outcome prediction when used in conjunction with the Hunt and Hess scale and not with the WFNS scale and the GCS. CONCLUSION: Timing of grading is an important factor in outcome prediction that needs to be standardized. This study suggests that the patient's worst clinical grade is most predictive of outcome, especially when the patient is assessed using the WFNS scale or the GCS.
Affective, substance use, and anxiety disorders in persons with arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, or chronic lung conditions

The authors estimated the sex- and age-adjusted prevalence of affective, substance use, and anxiety disorders in persons in a general population sample who identified themselves as having arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, chronic lung disease, or no chronic medical conditions. Persons who reported ever having arthritis, heart disease, chronic lung disease, or high blood pressure had a significantly increased adjusted prevalence of each of the three groups of lifetime psychiatric disorders, relative to a no-chronic conditions comparison group (each p less than 0.05). Persons who ever had diabetes had an increased adjusted prevalence of lifetime affective and anxiety but not substance use disorder. Persons with current (i.e., active) arthritis, heart disease, or high blood pressure had a significantly increased adjusted prevalence of recent (6-month) anxiety disorder, whereas those with current chronic lung disease had an increased adjusted prevalence of recent affective and substance use but not anxiety disorder.
The Use of Periodontal Probes and Radiographs in Clinical Trials of Diagnostic Tests

Periodontal probing attachment level measurements and intraoral radiographs are used to assess the level of the clinical attachment and bone support in the diagnosis of periodontitis. Together these physical measurements of tooth support comprise the standard against which new diagnostic tests are compared. Since probing and radiographs provide a measure of the severity of attachment or bone loss at one point in time, serial measurements must be compared to determine whether periodontitis is progressive. Periodontal probing may be performed manually or by using controlled force electronic instruments. The resolution, depending on the instrument, will vary from 1.0 mm to 0.1 mm. Variations in probing force, size and shape of tip, location of tip placement, detection or reference landmarks for attachment level probing, degree of gingival inflammation, and transcription may adversely influence accuracy. Electronic probes offer the advantage of improved resolution, force control, and automatic recording, but the literature is inconsistent about the advantages in terms of repeatability and accuracy. Radiographic assessment of alveolar bone loss may be achieved by visual interpretation, measurement, or digital image analysis. While visual interpretation of unstandardized radiographs is insensitive to changes in bone, standardized radiographs can permit measurement of changes on the order of 0.2 mm when computerized methods are used. Newer techniques such as digital subtraction radiography permit detection of bony changes too small to be seen by the unaided eye and are over 95% sensitive and specific in detecting bony changes less than 10 mg.