cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Autologous mixed lymphocyte reaction (AMLR) in man. XVI. The AMLR and monoclonal antibody-defined T cell subsets and HNK 1+ natural killer cells in normal human pregnancy.

Abstract Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 27 pregnant women and 10 age-matched non-pregnant women were examined for monoclonal antibody-defined T cells, immunoregulatory T-cell subsets, natural killer cells, activated T cells and surface Ig + B lymphocytes using a fluorescence-activated cell sorter (FACS analyzer). The autologous mixed lymphocyte reaction (AMLR) and in vitro influence of interleukin 1 (IL-1) and interleukin 2 (IL-2) on the AMLR were also studied. No significant difference was observed in the proportions of Leu 3 + (helper/inducer phenotype) and Leu 2 + (suppressor/cytotoxic) T cells during all three trimesters of pregnancy and in post-partum period when compared to non-pregnant healthy control women. T cells expressing DR antigen (evidence of T-cell activation) were significantly increased during second trimester ( P P + T cells (IL-2 receptor positive T cells, another but distinct marker for T cell activation) were normal throughout pregnancy and in the post-partum period. Leu 7 + (HNK 1 + ) lymphoid cells (containing a population of natural killer cells) were normal during all 3 trimesters of pregnancy but were increased during post-partum period. Surface Ig + B cells were comparable to control group throughout pregnancy and during post-partum period. The AMLR was significantly deficient ( P
Prognostic value of tissue Doppler-Derived E/e' on early morbid events after cardiac surgery.

Traditional risk factors associated with morbidity and mortality after cardiac surgery include baseline left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), multiple left ventricular regional wall motion abnormalities, advanced age, co-morbid conditions, and procedure complexity.1–3 Recently, left ventricular diastolic function has been shown to have value in predicting outcome in patients with cardiovascular disease and those having cardiac surgery. Diastolic dysfunction predicts increased difficulty weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB),4,5 increased adverse events regardless of LVEF,6 and increased mortality.6 Merello et al. report that the presence of severe diastolic dysfunction, as determined by conventional Doppler measurements, is more accurate in predicting adverse outcomes and mortality after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) than other established cardiac operative risk scores.7 However, given that conventional transmitral and pulmonary vein flow patterns are influenced by heart rate and rhythm,8,9 loading conditions,10–12 and other interrelated factors (e.g., mitral regurgitation) that may have confounding effects on the interpretation of pulsed-Doppler flow signals,13,14 tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) could be a valuable addition to the perioperative echocardiographer’s armamentarium.15,16 The early diastolic mitral annular velocity (e′) is less affected by loading conditions than conventional Doppler,17 and the TDI surrogate of LV filling pressure,18 E/e′, has been shown to be relatively independent of systolic function, rhythm abnormalities (such as tachycardia and atrial fibrillation), LV hypertrophy, and functional mitral regurgitation.13,18–23 Accordingly, this retrospective review investigates the association between the intraoperative E/e′ ratio with the requirement of inotropic support, prolonged mechanical ventilation (MV), and increased intensive care unit (ICU-LOS) and hospital lengths of stay (H-LOS) in patients following CABG and/or valvular surgery. We hypothesize that an elevated E/e′ ratio prior to surgical repair predicts early postoperative morbid events.
Recording polarization effects via holography.

Polarization effects in light scattering recorded by method using holographic interference patterns
Differential thermal analysis of protein denaturation in solution

Abstract Differential thermal analysis (DTA) has been shown to be useful for the study of the denaturation of proteins in solution. Each protein examined produced an endotherm of characteristic shape and temperature of peak minimum. Fine structure was observed in the thermogram for muramidase denaturation, and was shown to be dependent upon both protein concentration and scan rate. In a series of eight repeated runs with muramidase, the standard error for the determination of peak areas was 2.6%. Since the enthalpy of transition can be obtained from the area under the peak if a suitable standard is used, DTA shows promise as a rapid and reasonably accurate method for obtaining heats of denaturation. The reproducibility of peak minima, with standard error of 0.11 °C, may make DTA a sensitive tool for detecting minor changes in protein conformation. Kinetic parameters can also be obtained from DTA data. It is anticipated that the method will give information on the state of proteins in complex biological systems.
Switching Behavior of Sharply Pointed Nanomagnets for Logic Applications

We study the switching behavior of variously shaped, near-single-domain nanomagnets for nanomagnet logic (NML) applications. Magnets in the size range of 60 × 100 to 60 × 200 nm, with different lengths and end-shapes are fabricated and characterized, and the results compared to temperature-dependent micromagnetic simulations. In this study, the length of the nanomagnets is more important to the switching properties than is end shape. However, for sharper magnets, temperature fluctuations play a large role in determining the switching field.
Toward Quality Software.

The content and limitations of currently used software evaluation/selection forms are discussed. Four major forms are described, and a review of the literature suggesting improvements of evaluation forms is provided. Finally, a new form is proposed that could be used for all grade levels of instruction and that considers the identified weaknesses and improvements. Specifically, the form is designed with deliberate consideration for time, objectivity, and 20 years of research toward a theory of instruction.
Glutamine synthetase: a key enzyme for intestinal epithelial differentiation?

Background We have previously shown that glutamine synthetase protein and mRNA are concentrated in the crypt region of the rat small intestine and that the activity of this enzyme is highest around the time of weaning. This anatomical location and time of peak activity are sites and periods of active enterocyte differentiation. This led to our current hypothesis that glutamine synthetase is important in the differentiation of enterocytes. Methods To test our hypothesis, we treated Caco-2 cells with physiologic (0.6 mM) glutamine concentrations in cell culture medium. The experimental group was treated with methionine sulfoximine, an irreversible glutamine synthetase inhibitor, and the control group with phosphate buffered saline. Three standard and well-defined markers of intestinal differentiation-sucrase-isomaltase activity, microvillus formation, and electrical impedance in transwell plates-were compared between the two groups. Results The methionine-sulfoximine-inhibited group was found to have lower sucrase-isomaltase activity, a lower density of microvilli, and lower electrical impedance values over time compared with the control group. Conclusion The experimental group was found to be less differentiated by all three markers of differentiation. Therefore, glutamine synthetase is important for Caco-2 cell differentiation.
Focus on qualitative methods: Interviewing children

The focus in health-related research on children has shifted from seeking information about children to seeking information directly from them. Children, even as young as three years old, can give graphic descriptions and have excellent recall of experiences related to adverse events, such as illness and hospitalization. Children use scripts as the primary means of anticipating, comprehending, and re-creating real-life experience. The content, timing, number, and structure of interviews will influence the completeness, accuracy, and consistency of children's recall of events. Although at times conflicting, the findings from recent scholarship on children's narrative competence will assist researchers to select the interviewing strategies most likely to yield faithful representations of experience. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Res Nurs Health 22:177–185, 1999
Epididymal epithelium: Its contribution to the formation of a luminal fluid microenvironment

To understand the process of sperm maturation, an understanding of interactions between the spermatozoa with the luminal fluid microenvironment and with the epididymal epithelium is necessary. The composition of epididymal luminal fluid of several species is well documented but the manner by which the epididymis contributes to the formation of this specialized milieu is not so well understood. A major role played by the epididymis is to finely regulate the movement of molecules into and out of the lumen. This ensures that as spermatozoa progress along the duct they are exposed to a continually changing, but optimal environment necessary for their maturation and survival. This review focusses on our current understanding of the contributions of the epididymal epithelium to the formation of a specialized luminal fluid microenvironment. The role of the blood-epididymis barrier, the composition of the epididymal luminal fluid, the permeability properties of the epididymal epithelium, and recent studies on a number of luminal fluid proteins and expression of the genes which encode these proteins are discussed. © 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Non-intrusive active power clamp filter on PLC channels for smart grid applications

Power line carrier communication (PLC) technique is widely used for information exchange in over-head and under-ground power lines. Achieving uniform channel impedance for PLC on power lines is quite challenging. Although narrowband high frequency filter provide an impedance matching required for the PLC signals, it is very complex and costly to implement them due to the presence of high voltage and current in the power line. In this study a novel active blocking technique is proposed for PLC signals in a specific path. The proposed topology is based on the clamp non-intrusive over-head active filter which is capable of blocking a specific frequency in the power line using novel control techniques. The proposed method is tested and validated with the simulation and experimental system.
Treatment of sleep problems in a toddler: A replication of the faded bedtime with response cost protocol

Multiple sleep problems of a 2-year-old girl improved following treatment with a faded bedtime with response cost procedure (Piazza & Fisher, 1991). These results extend the literature by implementing treatment in a home setting with a nondisabled child using the parents as therapists.
Human pituitary thyrotropin: Primary structure of the hormone specific β subunit

Abstract The primary structure of the hormone specific β subunit of human pituitary thyrotropin has been deduced from the composition and complete or partial amino acid sequences of the tryptic and chymotryptic peptides. It consists of 112 amino acid residues with the single oligosaccharide moiety which is assumed to be linked to the asparagine residue at position 23.
Hydrochloroquine retinopathy: characteristic presentation with review of screening

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), an antimalarial drug in use since 1955, is still used with great success in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosis and other rheumatological diseases. HCQ is generally well tolerated and its side effect profile confers many advantages over many other immunosuppressive agents. However, HCQ is known to induce retinopathy. Unfortunately, HCQ-induced retinopathy can present insidiously with subtle color vision changes and paracentral scotoma, which makes early detection difficult. Moreover, cessation of HCQ does not typically result in resolution of the visual loss, and vision loss may actually continue to progress even after HCQ is stopped. Therefore, identifying those patients most at risk for development of retinopathy is of the utmost importance, and adequate screening of patients taking HCQ is recommended. A brief case presentation of a patient who has developed retinal toxicity from hydroxychloroquine is provided along with a discussion regarding the characteristic retinopathy and review of current screening recommendations.
Early tests of scale invariance in high-energy muon scattering

Data are presented on deep inelastic scattering of 56.3- and 150-GeV ${\ensuremath{\mu}}^{+}$ from an iron target at the Fermi National Acceleratory Laboratory. Observed event rates, averaged over a wide range in $\ensuremath{\omega}$, are compared to scale-invariance predictions for ${q}^{2}$ up to 44 ${(\mathrm{G}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{V}/\mathit{c})}^{2}$. The ratio of the 150-GeV data to the scale-invariance prediction versus ${q}^{2}$ is not constant for all accepted $\ensuremath{\omega}$ values. A fit of the form ${(1+\frac{{g}^{2}}{{\ensuremath{\Lambda}}^{2}})}^{\ensuremath{-}2}$ yields a lower limit of $\ensuremath{\Lambda}g10$ GeV with 90% confidence, averaged over a restricted $\ensuremath{\omega}$ range.
Cob Biomass Production in the Western Corn Belt

Corn residue is viewed as an abundant, inexpensive source of biomass that can be removed from fields for ethanol production without deleterious production or environmental effects if proper management is used according to some recent publications. Other publications indicate that corn residue needs to be retained on the land to reduce erosion and maintain or perhaps even improve soil organic matter levels. As researchers attempt to address these questions, one component of corn residue that may be available for immediate use for conversion to ethanol is the cob. Our objective was to determine how much cob biomass or cob biomass (as a percentage of grain biomass) is produced that could potentially be converted to biofuels. Results from two long-term experiments: 1) Rainfed with four cropping systems that included corn with three nitrogen fertilizer rates (20 years), and 2) Irrigated with two cropping systems, with four corn hybrids and five nitrogen fertilizer rates (8 years). Several factors (Cropping System, Hybrids, N fertilizer, and their interactions) significantly affected both cob biomass and cob biomass as a percent of grain biomass but were not of sufficient magnitude to be of practical significance. Most importantly, when N fertilizer was applied at rates sufficient to optimize grain yields in all cropping systems and hybrids, cob biomass as a percent of grain biomass averaged approximately 20%. This consistent relationship allows quick and easy calculation of the cob biomass that could be available for harvest for biofuels if grain yield levels or potentials are known.
Measurement of filament spacing in deformation processed CuNb alloys

Abstract Previous studies of Cu-20 vol.% Nb alloys used optical and SEM techniques to evaluate the thickness and spacing of the Nb filaments. It had been known that the filament sizes were smaller than the resolution limit of the SEM at high deformation strain but it was assumed that this problem would not significantly change the observed trends. Results of this TEM study using dark-field techniques on the same materials show that the previous SEM measurements significantly overestimated the spacing at the higher deformations. Analysis of resistivity data on the samples also confirms this result. The strength dependence on Cu channel spacing, t Cu , was found to display a large transition region, with the dependence changing from a t Cu −0.5 at low strains to a t Cu −0.38 at high strains. The significance of these results is discussed. It is also pointed out that the filament sizes observed at high strains in these materials range to below 20 nm and they exhibit strength/filament size characteristics similar to vapor deposited nanocrystalline materials.
Direct observation of diffusional creep via TEM in polycrystalline thin films of gold

Some transmission electron microscope observations are presented of the effects of stress in gold thin films, at moderately elevated temperatures. Stretching of the film by diffusional creep is demonstrated, and good agreement is obtained between theoretical predictions of the strain rate at the estimated stress level, provided that surface energy and surface diffusion contributions are accounted for. Zero-creep stresses are found to be very large for these thin films, and the excess stress, over the zero-creep level, required to account for the observed strain rate, is relatively small. The growth of creep voids (cracks) in the films is attended by the formation of bridging whiskers under certain conditions and the whiskers also appear to grow by a diffusive mechanism.
On the correlation of crystal defects and band gap properties of ZnO nanobelts

We report here investigations of crystal and electronic structure of as-synthesized and annealed ZnO nanobelts by an in-situ high-resolution transmission electron microscope equipped with a scanning tunneling microscopy probe. The in-situ band gap measurements of individual ZnO nanobelts were carried out in scanning tunneling spectroscopy mode using the differential conductance dI/dV–V data. The band gap value of the as-synthesized ZnO nanobelts was calculated to be ∼2.98 eV, while this property for the annealed nanobelts (∼3.21 eV) was close to the band gap value for bulk ZnO materials (∼3.37 eV). The difference in the band gap value of the as-synthesized ZnO nanobelts and annealed ones was attributed to the planar defects (e.g. stacking faults and twins). These defects can alter the electronic structure by producing localized resonant states that result in band gap reduction.
Revolution Without the Revolution: Sex in Contemporary America.

Let us assume man to be man, and his relation to the world to be a human one. Then love can only be exchanged for love, trust for trust, etc^... Every one of your relations to man and to nature must be a specific expression, corresponding to the object o£ your willy of your real individalctl life. If you love without evoking love in return, i.e., if you are not able, by the manifestation of yourself as a loving person, to make yoursclf a beloved petsoal, then your love is impotent and a misfortulle. Karl Marx: The ECconomic and Philosophical Marzascripts of 1844
Prediction of direct gain solar heating sytem performance

Abstract General design methods for building-integrated (passive) solar heating systems are needed to evaluate the effects of design parameters on building energy needs. The solar Load Ratio Method[1] for direct gain systems is limited in the scope of system parameters which can be considered; it does not allow an examination of the effects of house capacitance, allowable room temperature swing, or alternative high and low room thermostat set point temperatures. In this paper, we present a more general design method for direct gain systems.
Industrial practices of test cost reduction: Perspective, current design practices

Test cost is becoming increasingly significant percentage of COB (Cost of Build) in current SoCs (System-on-a-Chip). This is even critical in low cost markets like consumer devices. This session outlines test cost reduction strategy that can be adopted on a typical SoC. Strategy exploits known test cost reduction techniques that include DFT (Design-For-Test) techniques, target ATE (Automated Test Equipment) selection and statistical analysis on production data. DFT techniques discussed are multi-site, concurrent tests, scan compression, merged scan & memory IDDQ & retention and BIST (Built-in-Self-Test) solutions. In addition to impact of test cost reduction of these techniques, design overhead like gate count, robust power grid design, route-ability and diagnose-ability are discussed. These techniques also demand additional ATE resources like power supplies and analog resources which add to cost overhead. Product engineering techniques that are discussed are vector elimination based on statistical analysis of COF (Continue-on-Fail) data and program trimming techniques that include reducing tester overhead and removing unnecessary wait times. Impact to test quality (DPPM) is assessed with these techniques. Test cost impact of techniques described in this presentation is quantified based on data on a SOC, which is in production. Based on experience of test cost reduction activities, we propose a strategy for test cost reduction for a typical SoC that includes 2 step approach. Step-1 includes architectural techniques that will enable test time reduction in all test modes. Step-2 includes adopting test cost reduction techniques that are test mode specific. Test mode specific techniques are applied based on test cost distribution. Step-1: Architectural test cost reduction Multi-site remains the powerful test cost reduction architectural technique as it cuts down test time of all test patterns (or test modes). All limitations or challenges for designing for higher multi-site needs to be solved as part of test cost reduction. Low cost tester compliance is next most powerful technique as it directly affects (capital cost) test costs. Based on ATE, which is targeted for SoC, challenges due to limitations of low cost ATE are taken care in design. Step-2: Test cost distribution based test cost reduction The best way to plan test cost reduction strategy is identifying test modes that are major contributors to overall test time. This can be obtained from test time distribution chart. Based on test time distribution, each test mode is looked at for opportunities to reduce test time through one of techniques described in this paper.
Future perspectives: pathogenesis of chronic muscle pain

Chronic painful muscle conditions include non-inflammatory and inflammatory illnesses. This review is focused on chronic non-inflammatory pain conditions such as myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) and fibromyalgia syndrome (FM), and will not discuss metabolic, genetic or inflammatory muscle diseases such as McArdle's disease, muscular dystrophy, polymyositis, dermatomyositis, or inclusion body myositis.
Paclitaxel Nanocrystals for Overcoming Multidrug Resistance in Cancer

Here we described a paclitaxel (PTX) nanocrystal formulation using d-alpha-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS) as the sole excipient for overcoming multidrug resistance (MDR), a key challenge in current cancer therapy. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first report on PTX nanocrystals which can reverse MDR. TPGS serves as a surfactant to stabilize the nanocrystals and a P-gp inhibitor to reverse MDR. The size and morphology of the nanocrystals were studied by transmission electron microscopy, and the crystalline structure was determined by powder X-ray diffraction. An in vitro drug release profile showed that the nanocrystals exhibited sustained release kinetics compared to Taxol, which is the clinical paclitaxel formulation. The cytotoxicity and antitumor efficacy in xenograft models were also investigated. It is demonstrated that PTX/TPGS nanocrystals have significant advantages over Taxol in achieving better therapeutic effect in Taxol-resistant cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo, which was also confirmed by apoptosis assays. We envision that further development of this type of nanocrystal will provide a novel strategy for drug delivery and multidrug resistance treatment.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells: A Multimodality Option for Wound Healing

Background: Although significant resources are invested in wound care and healing annually, chronic wounds remain a major medical problem as they often present a more difficult challenge than the underlying disease. Current treatment options include a multitude of dressing materials, topical agents including antibiotics, enzymatic debriders, and growth factors, mechanical debridement, and optimization of medical comorbidities. The Problem: Even under optimal circumstances, the healing process leads to some form of fibrosis and scarring. Basic/Clinical Science Advances: Studies suggest that mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) isolated from these diverse tissues possess similar biological characteristics, differentiation potential, and immunological properties. Enthusiasm about MSCs for use in reconstruction and regenerative medicine has been fueled by evidence that these cells possess the ability to participate in the tissue repair process through a variety of paracrine mechanisms affecting tissue regene...
Older Adults and Technology Adoption

Access to computers and the Internet is a major public policy concern as technology has become a significant aspect of economic, social and health equity. Recent data suggest that although computer...
English writing development of young, linguistically different learners

Abstract A growing body of research of young children's writing development has highlighted the transactional nature of oral and written language in the emergence of literacy. Although writing before reading is generally viewed as an important component in literacy development for preschool and kindergarten children, little is known about the effectiveness of English as a first written language for writing instruction of limited-English proficient (LEP) young children. The present study was designed to examine the emergence of English writing in a kindergarten classroom where 21 of the 28 to 31 children enrolled during the year were LEP and spoke a variety of languages (Spanish, Hmong, Lao, and Cambodian). Regular daily journal writing sessions were videotaped periodically and analyzed over the course of the year. Three case studies illustrating the variety of performances in the classroom are used to present the results. Results indicate that young linguistically different learners who are learning a written language for the first time demonstrate stages of writing development similar to those found in native speakers of the language. The study suggests not only that the relationship between oral and written language is transactional, but also that learners need not be proficient speakers of a second language to benefit from oral and written transactions in that language. It also suggests that individual differences in ability, personality, and style on the part of the children influence literacy learning in a second language. Instructional implications for LEP children in a regular classroom are discussed.
Influence of Reynolds number on forebody side forces for 3.5-diameter tangent-ogive bodies

Vortex asymmetries can arise on aircraft and missile forebodies at high angles of attack and have proven difficult to simulate in the wind tunnel because of a large array of parameters that can influence the test results. One of the most important of these parameters is Reynolds number. The current report compares, for tangent-ogive forebodies with fineness ratios of 3.5, flow patterns from oil-flow photographs to features in pressure distributions. The pressure data base is then used to illustrate the development of the sectional side force coefficient along both the tangent-ogive nose and an attached cylindrical afterbody for Reynolds numbers of 0.2, 0.8 and 3.8 million, based on maximum diameter, and angles of attack of 40, 50 and 60 deg. General commments concerning the effects of Reynolds number are presented, as well as an analysis of the effects of Reynolds number on the sectional side force coefficient near and at the apex of the pointed body. All data presented are for freestream Mach numbers on the order of 0.25.
Influence of Zirconium Additions on the Epsilon Phase of the Titanium-Aluminium System

THE TiAl phase (ɛ) of the aluminium-titanium system exists as a single-phase field and can be achieved as a high-temperature phase without a polymorphic phase transformation. Results of an early investigation by the Armour Research Foundation indicated that an alloy of 36 per cent aluminium with 64 per cent titanium had superior oxidation resistance of 1,500°F, good hot hardness, and low density; however, it lacked any degree of room-temperature or elevated-temperature ductility1. The cause of this brittleness appeared to be the ordered face-centred tetragonal lattice structure, in which [002] planes of aluminium atoms were alternated with titanium atoms. It was assumed that if the c/a ratio could be reduced to unity, and the atomic arrangement could be disordered, the ductility of the ɛ, phase could be improved. Kessler and McAndrews1 tried to reduce the c/a ratio to unity by the additions of 13 different elements. Davies2 in 1959 suggested the addition of Zr as a means of reducing the c/a ratio. Sandlin and Klug3 and Troup4 continued to study the effect of Zr additions to the TiAl binary. The purpose of our investigation was to refine the 2,325° F ɛ-phase boundary of the Al-Ti-Zr system outlined by the earlier investigators and to determine the influence of zirconium on the c/a ratio within the ɛ phase at this temperature.
On Markets and Pseudo-Markets in Socialist Economies

Liberalisation of East European economies is desirable. But, as Professor Jan Winiecki of Warsaw University points out, there are reforms and psuedo-reforms.
Utilization of program evaluation information in public schools: Perspectives and guidelines for school psychologists

Abstract The ability of program evaluators in public schools to design evaluations the result in useful evaluation information is central to the advancement of the field of program evaluation. Unless evaluation information is utilized by program decision makers, the worth of an evaluation can be questioned. In this paper, the issue of utilization of program evaluation information in public schools is addressed. First, perspectives on utilization of evaluation information are provided that are derived from knowledge utilization theory and research. Second, a set of program evaluation guidelines are described that are intended to help enhance utilization of evaluation information by program decision makers. Third, a meta-evaluation of the application of the guidelines in public school settings is reported.
A serine kinase regulates intracellular localization of splicing factors in the cell cycle.

Small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particles (snRNPs) and non-snRNP splicing factors containing a serine/arginine-rich domain (SR proteins) concentrate in 'speckles' in the nucleus of interphase cells(1). It is believed that nuclear speckles act as storage sites for splicing factors while splicing occurs on nascent transcripts(2). Splicing factors redistribute in response to transcription inhibition(3,4) or viral infection(5), and nuclear speckles break down and reform as cells progress through mitosis(6). We have now identified and cloned a kinase, SRPK1, which is regulated by the cell cycle and is specific for SR proteins; this kinase is related to a Caenorhabditis elegans kinase and to the fission yeast kinase Dsk1 (ref. 7). SRPK1 specifically induces the disassembly of nuclear speckles, and a high level of SRPK1 inhibits splicing in vitro. Our results indicate that SRPK1 mag have a central role in the regulatory network for splicing, controlling the intranuclear distribution of splicing factors in interphase cells, and the reorganization of nuclear speckles during mitosis.
Local Hanle-effect studies of spin drift and diffusion in n:GaAs epilayers and spin-transport devices

In electron-doped GaAs, we use scanning Kerr-rotation microscopy to locally probe and spatially resolve the depolarization of electron spin distributions by transverse magnetic fields. The shape of these local Hanle- effect curves provides a measure of the spin lifetime as well as spin transport parameters including drift velocity, mobility and diffusion length. Asymmetries in the local Hanle data can be used to reveal and map out the effective magnetic fields due to spin-orbit coupling. Finally, using both spin imaging and local Hanle effect studies, we investigate the drift and diffusion of electrically-injected spins in lateral Fe/GaAs spin-detection devices, both within and outside the current path.
Pilot Test of 12-Step Linkage for Alcohol-Abusing Women in Leaving Jail

ABSTRACT. Background: More than a million US women are detained in jails each year; many have alcohol use disorders (AUDs). AUD intervention with pretrial jail detainees presents a logistical challenge due to limited jail stays and lack of resources for postrelease treatment. The availability, no-cost entry, and promise of anonymity of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) make it a highly accessible resource for underserved populations. However, the outreach of AA volunteers into jails (as opposed to prisons) has been limited, and incarcerated women are unlikely to seek out strangers for help after release. This study pilot tested an enhanced referral approach introducing a 12-step volunteer to a woman in jail who would attend a meeting with her after release. Methods: Participants were 14 unsentenced female pretrial jail detainees with AUD. Intervention consisted of introducing participants detained in jail to female AA volunteers who could accompany them to an AA meeting after release. Assessments took place at ba...
Intramural nerves and interstitial cells revealed by the Champy Maillet stain in the opossum esophagus

The 3 layers of smooth muscle of the opossum esophagus exhibit distinctly different and characteristic functions in response to nerve stimulation. These behaviors might be related to differences in patterns of innervation. Serial sections, stained with osmic acid and zinc iodide, were examined from all parts of the esophagus to describe in full the innervation of opossum esophageal smooth muscle. Linear beaded structures identified as terminal nerves were abundant in all 3 layers of smooth muscle. They were aligned with muscle bundles in bundles of 1-5 in mucosal muscle and up to about 10 in the longitudinal layer of muscularis propria. In the circular layer of muscularis propria they were less dense and more arborized and they crossed the muscle obliquely to also innervate bipolar interstitial cells; these cells resembled type III interstitial cells of Cajal, were specific for the circular muscle layer and were uniformly distributed throughout the thickness of that layer. Their distribution density in the circular muscle was slightly greater, 8777/cm2 in the most caudad 1.5 cm of the esophagus (which encompasses the sphincter) than in the 6 cm above that level. Terminal nerves also innervated submucosal glands, vessels and the epithelium. Ganglion cells and nerve bundles in the submucous and myenteric plexuses were variably stained. Ganglia of the latter plexus contained intraganglionic laminar endings as described previously in other species. In the striated muscle there were nerves terminating in motor end-plates. Other leafy stellate cells resembling interstitial cells of Cajal of other types were stained, as were oval interstitial cells.
Failed epidural top-up for cesarean delivery for failure to progress in labor: the case against single-shot spinal anesthesia

As a consequence of increasing use of epidurals for labor analgesia, the majority of women in the United States presenting for cesarean delivery during labor will have an epidural in-situ. Most clinicians in this setting elect to use the existing epidural to provide cesarean delivery anesthesia. A failed epidural top-up for cesarean delivery in labor is a potentially serious clinical problem that has gained increasing attention recently. The Royal College of Anaesthetists developed guidelines for acceptable rates for failed neuraxial anesthesia for cesarean delivery. The guidelines state that the conversion rate from neuraxial to general anesthesia should be <1% for elective and <3% for non-elective cesarean delivery. The incidence of block failure for cesarean delivery following a top-up of a labor epidural varies widely; failure rates range from 1.7% to 19.8%. Potential explanations for this reported variance include differences in the following: definitions of block failure, e.g., intraoperative pain, analgesic supplementation, requirement for general anesthesia; primary anesthetic technique (combined-spinal epidural (CSE) compared to epidural for labor analgesia has a lower incidence of subsequent cesarean delivery block failure); anesthesiologists’ experience (non-obstetric anesthesiologists are more likely to convert to general anesthesia than obstetric anesthesiologists covering the service); surgical practices, e.g., uterine externalization, duration of cesarean delivery; obstetric population; retrospective or prospective study design; and the urgency of the cesarean delivery. Neuraxial block failures are much higher in the emergent setting compared to the elective cesarean setting. One study found the rate of general anesthesia conversion
Negative Ion Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight Post-Source Decay Calibration By Using Fibrinopeptide B

Fibrinopeptide B (M(r) 1552.58) was employed as a calibration compound for matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) post-source decay (PSD) fragment ion analysis in the negative mode. Experiments were performed by using both continuous and delayed extraction, with the maximum reflectron voltages being 30 and 21 kV, respectively. For comparison, a common positive ion PSD calibrant, ACTH(18-39) (M(r) 2466.7), was also employed with positive ion calibration constants being applied to negative ion spectra. Using fibrinopeptide B as the calibrant, the negative ion PSD results for angiotensin II (M(r) 1046.2), renin substrate tetradecapeptide (horse) (M(r) 1759.0), and the custom-synthesized peptide (K2G4)2 (M(r) 987.1) showed a factor of 1.5-2 improvement in absolute mass accuracy. Typical absolute mass-to-charge ratio accuracies were within +/- 1 Thompson and were achieved even when the peptide being analyzed was more massive than fibrinopeptide B. In addition, both calibrants showed increased accuracy when experiments were conducted in the delayed extraction mode. Other advantages of using fibrinopeptide B are its moderate cost and the ability to perform calibration and sample analysis for negative ion PSD under the same instrumental conditions.
Phase I Evaluation of Low‐Dose Suramin as Chemosensitizer of Doxorubicin in Dogs with Naturally Occurring Cancers

Background: Low and nontoxic concentrations (10–50 mM) of suramin, which is a nonspecific inhibitor of multiple growth factors, including fibroblast growth factors, enhances the activities of cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agents, such as doxorubicin and paclitaxel, both in vitro and in vivo. Suramin has not been evaluated as a chemosensitizing agent in dogs with cancer. Hypothesis: Nontoxic suramin can be used safely as a chemosensitizer in dogs. Animals: Sixteen dogs of various breeds with measurable tumors were treated; 1 dog that had undergone amputation for osteosarcoma received adjuvant therapy. Methods: The dogs received 53 courses of treatment with suramin in combination with doxorubicin. The suramin dosage was 6.75 mg/kg IV 3 h before standard doxorubicin administration every 2 weeks. The pharmacokinetics and clinical efficacy were determined. Results: The pharmacokinetics of low-dose suramin followed a 2-compartment model with half-lives of 2 h and 6 days. The distribution volume was a 0.34 6 0.12 L/kg, and clearance was 1.86 6 0.76 mL/kg/h. During the time interval that doxorubicin was present at therapeutically active concentrations (ie, from the start of infusion to 24 hours), the plasma concentrations were maintained within 20% of the target range (8–60 mM) in 72% of the treatments. The toxicity of the suramin/doxorubicin combination was mild and comparable to the toxicity expected for doxorubicin monotherapy. Objective partial responses were observed in 2 out of 16 evaluable dogs (13%). All 5 dogs that previously received doxorubicin showed improved responses to the suramin/doxorubicin combination. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: A fixed, low-dose suramin regimen yields the desired target plasma concentrations in most dogs, and appears to enhance the activity of doxorubicin without enhancing toxicity.
Platinum(II) molecular triangle with a deep intramolecular cavity.

Depending on the conditions, the reaction of K2PtCl4 with 1,3-bis(N-pyrazolyl)benzene (bpzphH) yields either Pt(bpzph)Cl, [Pt(μ-bpzph)Cl]3, or a mixture of these products. In the case of the C3-sym...
CONCLUSION: HOW TO PICK A FIELD SCHOOL THAT'S RIGHT FOR YOU

Choosing to participate in an ethnographic or cultural anthropology field school is an important decision. There are a number of questions to consider when making a choice. These include: Know what is expected of you—what are the outcomes? What is the methodological “thrust” of the program—will you be in sync? What is the length of time of commitment—can you meet it? What is the relationship between the host community and the field school? Are you okay with it? Is there a language requirement and if so, can you meet it? How much structure is provided and what are your needs? Do you like to work independently or in a group? Would you feel most comfortable alone or in a group setting? How much day-to-day structure or supervision will you need and will you be likely to receive? Does the field school operate in a setting in which you want to be? Country? Locale? Climate? Are there any safety concerns you should consider? Will your university or college accept transfer credits if these are offered? Do you care? How much mentorship is provided? How much do you want? Is there an orientation and what does it cover? Are there prerequisites and are you adequately prepared? This chapter discusses what to think about as you try to answer these questions. To make the best choice possible, you need to think about what you wish to gain from the experience, your preferences, strengths and weaknesses. To get the most out of a field school experience, you should look for a program that challenges you to reach beyond your comfort zone, but not one that places such demands on you that you can never succeed. Because we do not often know the limits of our capacities, the key essential element for any student is the ability to be flexible, creative, and curious. If you can draw on these three characteristics, you are sure to be successful.
Speckle reduction in optical coherence tomography using angular compounding by B-scan Doppler-shift encoding

We propose a novel method for speckle reduction for optical coherence tomography based on angular compounding by B-scan Doppler-shift encoding (AngularCBD). By decentering the probe beam from the pivot of a scanning mirror, the illumination angle represented by different components of the beam can be encoded in Doppler shift. Compounding multiple images reconstructed from different Doppler-shift bands, we can suppress speckle without sacrificing image acquisition speed. Speckle reduction with AngularCBD is demonstrated by imaging a phantom and tissue sample in vitro and in vivo.
Correlation between lower c-mpl protein expression and favorable cytogenetic groups in acute myeloid leukemia.

Abstract The gene for the thrombopoietin receptor, c-mpl , has been shown to be overexpressed at the mRNA level in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndrome. A recent study reported c-mpl mRNA overexpression in 60% of a small sample of AML patients, and this overexpression correlates with shorter complete remission but not with karyotype group. We quantified c-mpl protein expression in 107 cases of AML and 24 normal bone marrow and 12 normal peripheral blood samples by using Western blot analysis and radioimmunoassay (RIA). Western blot analysis revealed no detectable level of c-mpl protein in the normal samples, whereas trace amounts were detected by RIA. c-mpl protein expression was increased (≥twice normal) in 65% of the AML cases. c-mpl protein expression was correlated with cytogenetic groups ( P =0.0009, Kruskal–Wallis test in rejecting the hypothesis that c-mpl expression was the same in different groups). Specifically, patients with favorable cytogenetic groups (t(8;21), inv16, and t(15;17)) had lower c-mpl protein expression (median 1.7 times normal), whereas patients with unfavorable abnormalities (+8, −5 or −7, and del(11)(q23)) and normal cytogenetics had high expression (3.1 and 2.85 times normal, respectively). The findings were the same when only the 61 untreated AML patients were considered. No statistically significant correlation between c-mpl expression and age or antecedent hematologic disorder was found. These results suggest that c-mpl protein overexpression in AML may play a role in the aggressiveness of this disease.
The Osteoclast: Friend or Foe?

Bone is a dynamic organ constantly remodeled to support calcium homeostasis and structural needs. The osteoclast is the cell responsible for removing both the organic and inorganic components of bone. It is derived from hematopoietic progenitors in the macrophage lineage and differentiates in response to the tumor necrosis factor family cytokine receptor activator of NFκB ligand. αvβ3 integrin mediates cell adhesion necessary for polarization and formation of an isolated, acidified resorptive microenvironment. Defects in osteoclast function, whether genetic or iatrogenic, may increase bone mass but lead to poor bone quality and a high fracture risk. Pathological stimulation of osteoclast formation and resorption occurs in postmenopausal osteoporosis, inflammatory arthritis, and metastasis of tumors to bone. In these diseases, osteoclast activity causes bone loss that leads to pain, deformity, and fracture. Thus, osteoclasts are critical for normal bone function, but their activity must be controlled.
Who is in the driver's seat in 8p12 amplifications? ZNF703 in luminal B breast tumors

Two recent reports identify ZNF703 as an oncogene driving selection of frequent chromosome 8p12 amplifications in luminal B breast tumors. The estrogen-responsive ZNF703 gene encodes a transcriptional cofactor that, when overexpressed, induces cell proliferation and interferes with transforming growth factor beta signaling. In MCF7 cells, increased ZNF703 expression results in activation of genes involved in stem cell self-renewal - while in primary human mammary epithelial cells, ZNF703 increases the ratio of luminal to basal progenitors. Expression of the murine homolog of ZNF703 reduces cell adhesion and promotes metastasis. ZNF703 overexpression thus alters regulation of proliferation and differentiation in luminal B tumors.
Microglial activation state exerts a biphasic influence on brain endothelial cell proliferation by regulating the balance of TNF and TGF-β1

Studies of cerebral ischemia and other neuroinflammatory states have demonstrated a strong association between new vessel formation and microglial recruitment and activation, raising the possibility that microglia may be involved in promoting angiogenesis. As endothelial cell proliferation is a fundamental early step in angiogenesis, the aim of this study was to test this hypothesis by examining the influence of microglial secreted factors on brain endothelial cell (BEC) proliferation using BrdU incorporation. Primary cultures of mouse BEC, microglia and astrocytes were used in this study. Proliferation of BEC was examined by BrdU incorporation. ELISA was used to quantify TNF and TGF-β1 levels within cell culture supernatants. Microglia regulated BEC proliferation in a biphasic manner; microglia conditioned medium (MG-CM) from resting microglia inhibited, while that from activated microglia promoted BEC proliferation. A screen of microglial cytokines revealed that BEC proliferation was inhibited by TGF-β1, but promoted by TNF. ELISA showed that TNF and TGF-β1 were both present in MG-CM, and that while TGF-β1 dominated in resting MG-CM, TNF levels were massively increased in activated MG-CM, shifting the balance in favor of TNF. Antibody-blocking studies revealed that the influence of MG-CM to inhibit or promote BEC proliferation was largely attributable to the cytokines TGF-β1 and TNF, respectively. This data suggests that microglial activation state might be an important determinant of cerebral angiogenesis; inhibiting BEC proliferation and neovascularization in the normal central nervous system (CNS), but stimulating the growth of new capillaries under neuroinflammatory conditions.