cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Electrical properties of leech dorsal muscle

Abstract 1. 1. The electrical properties of leech dorsal muscle were studied by means of intracellular recording. Average values for resting and action potentials were 27 ± 1 and 33 ± 1 mV, respectively. The action potential showed a prominent undershoot, its amplitude being 12 ± 1 mV. 2. 2. An infection was present on the rising phase of the action potential, indicating a non-uniform electrical property of the muscle cell. The action potential could be blocked at this level. 3. 3. The microelectrode could record the activity of neighboring cells which spread electronically to the impaled cell. Their firings were asynchronous. 4. 4. Single cells responded with all-or-none activity to depolarizing pulses applied through the impaling microelectrode. 5. 5. Plateau-type and grouped-discharge-type action potentials could be demonstrated.
Coordinate control of gene expression noise and interchromosomal interactions in a MAP kinase pathway.

In yeast, the MAPK-responsive protein Dig1 regulates Ste12 transcription factor activity in response to pheromone. Dig1 is now shown to prevent long-range interchromosomal interactions between Ste12-target genes, dampening transcriptional 'noise'.
Effect of Milk Storage on Cottage Cheese Yield

Abstract The effect of storage of raw milk for up to 12 days at 5°C on the yield of cottage cheese was investigated. Grade A raw milks were obtained from the University of Kentucky dairy herd and from the bulk fluid milk supply at a local processor. Cottage cheese was manufactured by the short-set (5h) and long-set (14h) procedures. Yield of cottage cheese decreased with an increase in time that raw milk was stored. Yield decreases were 2.5 to 3% per day of low temperature storage after the bacterial count of raw milk attained 10 6 /ml. These decreases occurred in the first 2 days of added storage of the bulk fluid milk from the local processor. Noncasein and nonprotein nitrogen increased as time of storage of raw skim milk increased. Bacterial analysis of the raw skim milks showed rapid increases in standard plate, psychrotrophic, and proteolytic counts. Coliform count also exhibited a rapid increase, but the final population was not as large as psychrotrophic and proteolytic counts.
Effects of Field Shape and Size on Application Errors Using Manual and Automatic Boom Section Control on a Self-Propelled Agricultural Sprayer

Past studies have been conducted to determine how the shape or size of a field may affect field efficiency and overlap errors. Typically these studies have been conducted using actual field boundaries, with assumed field coverage paths, implement types, and overlap widths. The information gained from some of these studies, while often based on hypothetical situations, can be beneficial to producers who want to reduce application errors. The goal of this study was to utilize actual field application data collected from a self-propelled agricultural sprayer to compare errors resulting from manual and automatic boom section control. Application errors resulting from both boom section control scenarios were evaluated versus field size and shape factors to identify if any trends existed as these parameters vary. Results of the statistical analysis indicated a relationship existed between field perimeter-to-area ratio and over-application resulting from manual (R2 of 0.57) and automatic (R2 of 0.56) boom section control for both sprayers. The reduction in over-application with the addition of automatic boom section control also demonstrated an increasing trend as the field perimeter to area ratio increased (R2 of 0.61). Errors increased at a greater rate using manual boom section control which suggests that as field inclusions (grassed waterways or other obstacles) increase or the field boundary becomes more complex, automatic boom section control will provide a greater opportunity for producers to reduce over-application.
NMR analysis of site-specific ligand binding in oligomeric proteins. Dynamic studies on the interaction of riboflavin synthase with trifluoromethyl-substituted intermediates.

The binding of small ligands to symmetrical oligomeric proteins may lead to a number of different partially ligated intermediates but should finally yield a symmetrical fully ligated enzyme/ligand complex. In the case of the trimeric protein, riboflavin synthase, some ligands form an unexpected protein/ ligand complex, even in the presence of a large excess of ligand. Three different bound forms were observed by 19 F NMR spectroscopy, and Scatchard-type analysis suggested binding sites of similar affinities. NOESY analysis of the kinetic network revealed that the three bound states exchange with free ligand, but not with each other, thus suggesting that the trimeric enzyme could be asymmetrical. This information permits appropriate precautions to be taken during X-ray structure analysis of riboflavin synthase, which is in progress. Quantitative analysis of the NOESY spectra yielded different rate constants for the different binding sites. For comparison, the monomeric lumazine protein was investigated as an example of a case with simple two-site exchange. For such systems, all kinetic parameters including kon and the dissociation constant can be determined from the NOESY spectrum. The data show that NMR spectroscopy can produce qualitative and quantitative information in cases of nonequivalent binding sites in oligomeric proteins if isolated NMR signals of the different forms can be observed. The technique is not limited to 19 F as reporter nucleus.
Self-healing juvenile cutaneous mucinosis.

A case of self-healing juvenile cutaneous mucinosis is presented. It demonstrates typical features of the disease: (1) early age of onset, (2) infiltrated plaque lesions of the head and torso, (3) nodules of the face and periarticular regions, (4) rapid onset accompanied by inflammatory phenomena, and (5) spontaneous resolution over a few months. Skin biopsy showed the deposition of the mucin, hyaluronic acid, mainly in the upper reticular dermis, and a mild increase in fibroblasts and mast cells. Results of studies of B and T lymphocytes were normal. Although three cases have been reported in Europe, to our knowledge this is the first reported case in the English-language literature.
In vivo studies of signaling in rod pathways of the mouse using the electroretinogram.

Abstract Purpose: (a) To examine the possibility that there is a threshold in the synaptic mechanism linking rods to rod bipolar cells that can reduce the transmission of continuous noise from the rods without blocking the transmission of any significant proportion of single-photon responses. (b) To estimate the level of this threshold and the amplitude of the continuous noise which it can serve to reduce. (c) To identify the location of the threshold mechanism in the rod to rod bipolar cell pathway. Methods: Corneal electroretinogram recordings were made from dark-adapted mice anesthetized with ketamine/xylazine after inner-retinal components had been suppressed to isolate PII, the response of depolarizing bipolar cells. Suppression was achieved by intravitreal injections of GABA, TTX, or in Cx36 KO animals by crushing the optic nerve and waiting for ganglion cells to degenerate. Results: All energy-scaled records of isolated PII obtained with ganzfeld stimuli that gave rise to much less than one photoisomerization (R*) per rod (0.01–0.2 R*/rod), had an essentially identical waveform. Stronger stimuli caused a reduction in the peak amplitude of energy-scaled records (saturation) and stimuli strong enough to produce multiple isomerizations in individual rods resulted in a shortening of the response latency and an increase of the energy-scaled amplitude at early times (supralinearity). The shape of the rising edge of isolated PII changed with flash energy in a way that was consistent with the existence of a synaptic threshold whose level was less than one tenth of the amplitude of single-photon signals and a continuous noise whose rms amplitude was even less than this. However, when measured at the time of the peak, the amplitude of PII increased linearly in proportion to stimulus energy from the very lowest levels up to the point where there was, on average, 0.2 R*/rod. Conclusions: There is a threshold nonlinearity operating at the output of the rod to rod bipolar cell synapse that can usefully reduce the transmission of continuous rod noise without significantly affecting the transmission of single-photon signals. This nonlinearity does not affect the overall linear function of the rod pathway at levels at which it is effectively operating in a photon-counting mode.
The C terminus of mouse macrophage inducible nitric-oxide synthase attenuates electron flow through the flavin domain.

Abstract The sequences of nitric-oxide synthase (NOS) flavin domains closely resemble that of NADPH-cytochrome P450 reductase (CPR), with the exception of a few regions. One such region is the C terminus; all NOS isoforms are 20–40 amino acids longer than CPR, forming a “tail” that is absent in CPR. To investigate its function, we removed the 21-amino acid C-terminal tail from murine macrophage inducible NOS (iNOS) holoenzyme and from a flavin domain construct. Both the truncated holoenzyme and reductase domain exhibited cytochrome c reductase activities that were 7–10-fold higher than the nontruncated forms. The truncated holoenzyme catalyzed NO formation approximately 20% faster than the intact form. Using stopped-flow spectrophotometry, we demonstrated that electron transfer into and between the two flavins and from the flavin to the heme domain is 2–5-fold faster in the absence of the C-terminal tail. The heme-nitrosyl complex, formed in all NOS isoforms during NO catalysis, is 5-fold less stable in truncated iNOS. Although both CPR and intact NOS can exist in a stable, one electron-reduced semiquinone form, neither the truncated holoenzyme nor the truncated flavin domain demonstrate such a form. We propose that this C-terminal tail curls back to interact with the flavin domain in such a way as to modulate the interaction between the two flavin moieties.
Measurement of plasma metabolites of (S)-5-[123I]iodo-3-(2-azetidinylmethoxy)pyridine (5-IA-85380), a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor imaging agent, in nonhuman primates.

The iodinated analog (S)-5-[123I]iodo-3-(2-azetidinylmethoxy)pyridine of A-85380 is a new potential SPECT tracer specific for the alpha4beta2 subtype nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, which play an important role in neurodegenerative diseases and in tobacco dependence. To evaluate the possibility of using this tracer for the in vivo quantification of these receptors, an accurate measurement of the plasma concentration of the parent compound is necessary. In human or nonhuman primate whole blood as well as in plasma, the parent compound is only stable for approximately 5 min, after which it decomposes. The radioligand is stable in the injection solution and in protein-free ( >30 K M.W.) plasma ultrafiltrate for at least 18 h. To preserve the parent compound in plasma the radioactive plasma must be mixed with equal volumes of acetonitrile within 5 min after its collection or, alternatively, radioactive blood should be collected and mixed with sodium azide (3 mg/ml blood). The in vivo metabolism of [123I]5-IA resulted in two components: a radiometabolite that is less lipophilic than the parent compound and a polar radiometabolite that is not free radioiodide because of the absence of radioactivity accumulation in the thyroid.
The effect of stress on grain boundary grooving

A theory of the effect of stress on grain boundary (GB) grooving is developed under the assumptions of matter transport by surface and GB diffusion, and steady-state diffusion in the GB. A uniaxial stress normal to a planar GB induces a flux at the GB root, out of (in to) the boundary for compression (tension), proportional to the stress. The corresponding solution is joined to that for thermal grooving at the surface using the continuity of chemical potential and of flux at the groove root. For planar geometry and small slopes, grooving under stress is described by a superposition of the solution for stress-free grooving and that generated by the stress-induced flux with no groove. Limits of the approximations are discussed. The analysis predicts an acceleration of grooving by a tensile stress and offers the possibility of an absolute measurement of the GB diffusion coefficient for mass transport.
A widely expressed human protein-tyrosine phosphatase containing src homology 2 domains.

Abstract A cDNA encoding a nontransmembrane protein-tyrosine phosphatase (PTP; EC 3.1.3.48), termed PTP2C, was isolated from a human umbilical cord cDNA library. The enzyme contains a single phosphatase domain and two adjacent copies of the src homology 2 (SH2) domain at its amino terminus. A variant of PTP2C (PTP2Ci) which has four extra amino acid residues within the catalytic domain has been identified also. PTP2C is widely expressed in human tissues and is particularly abundant in heart, brain, and skeletal muscle. The catalytic domain of PTP2C was expressed as a recombinant enzyme in Escherichia coli and purified to near homogeneity by two chromatographic steps. The recombinant enzyme was totally specific toward phosphotyrosine residues. The structural similarity between PTP2C and the previously described PTP1C suggests the existence of a subfamily of SH2-containing PTPs; these may play an important role in signal transduction through interaction of their SH2 domains with phosphotyrosine-containing proteins.
Predicting MPEG execution times

This paper reports on a set of experiments that measure the amount of CPU processing needed to decode MPEG-compressed video in software. These experiments were designed to discover indicators that could be used to predict how many cycles are required to decode a given frame. Such predictors can be used to do more accurate CPU scheduling. We found that by considering both frame type and size, it is possible to construct a linear model of MPEG decoding with R2 values of 0.97 and higher. Moreover, this model can be used to predict decoding times at both the frame and packet level that are almost always accurate to within 25% of the actual decode times. This is a surprising result given the large variability in MPEG decoding times, and suggests that it is feasible to design systems that make quality of service guarantees for MPEG-encoded video.
Construction waste management decision making process: identification, framework and detailed urban C&D waste profile analysis

Construction and demolition (C&D) activities require large inputs of resources and also create large outputs of waste while generating significant revenue and employment within the urban economy. As an intricate and multi-domain segment of building end-of-life (EOL) management, construction managers and other stakeholders within the waste management industry greatly influence decisions on the fate of C&D waste materials - whether they are landfilled, reused, or recycled. C&D waste is not federally regulated in the United States and the responsibility for reporting and tracking waste lies within the state and/or local government jurisdiction. Since reporting is not regulated, there are potential discrepancies in reporting of the quantities of C&D waste that are generated, recycled and disposed in landfills, and in the reporting frequency. We conduct a C&D waste audit through use of a multi-year data archive comprised of completed C&D projects in the greater Philadelphia area. This audit establishes a discrete, private industry data set that is normally confidential and unpublished from a local C&D waste reclamation center. The research may enable the early identification of sustainable practices for the owners, reducing demolition and hauling costs, rather than leaving secondary scrap markets to define which materials they will accept. We posit that higher recycling rates will be found within the city of Philadelphia relative to suburban recycling rates in greater Philadelphia and neighboring states. These rates will be higher based on established local infrastructure and the emergence of recipient markets and partnerships with construction industry material manufacturers. This collection of data may inform the decision makers, advance recycling within the construction industry, and minimize impact on local landfills. Recycling activities are occurring in the Philadelphia region which may point toward market maturity and established infrastructure. The overall center diversion rates are consistent. The collected data could represent maturity over time and smaller secondary markets may continue to develop and may be supported by manufacturer recycling partnerships or local markets. Case study matches overall center performance which is on par with rates from developed countries.
Immunocytochemical and in situ hybridization studies of the expression and distribution of three subunits of a complex with N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor-like properties

A group of four proteins with recognition sites for L-glutamate, N-methyl-D-aspartate, glycine, and competitive and non-competitive inhibitors of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors was previously purified from rat brain synaptic membranes. The biochemical and immunochemical characteristics of this complex, as well as the sequences of the complementary DNAs of three subunits, are distinct from those of other glutamate receptors, transporters, or enzymes. The function of this complex has not yet been defined, but it appears to be involved in glutamate-induced neuronal excitation and toxicity. It is not known whether all protein components of the complex are expressed in the same populations of brain cells. In the present study, immunohistochemical and in situ hybridization were used to map the distribution of the glutamate-binding, glycine/thienylcyclohexylpiperidine-binding, and carboxypiperazinyl-propylphosphonate-binding protein subunits of the complex. These proteins were abundantly expressed in pyramidal neurons of the hippocampus and cerebral cortex, and in granule cells of the dentate gyrus, cerebellum, and olfactory tubercle. Based on these results, it was concluded that the three subunits of the complex have similar patterns of expression in rat brain. The distribution of one subunit of the complex, glutamate-binding protein, was traced throughout the rat brain, thus providing a potential map of the expression of the complex in rodent brain. In addition, probes were developed in the present study that should be useful in future explorations of the role of these proteins in brain function and of the possible co-localization of the protein subunits in single cells or cell processes.
Colonic miRNA expression/secretion, regulated by intestinal epithelial PepT1, plays an important role in cell-to-cell communication during colitis.

PepT1 is a member of the proton-oligopeptide cotransporter family SLC15, which mediates the transport of di/tripeptides from intestinal lumen into epithelial cells. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a small noncoding RNAs (21–23 nucleotides), post-transcriptionally regulate gene expression by binding to the 3′-untranslated regions (UTRs) of their target mRNAs. Although the role of most miRNAs remains elusive, they have been implicated in vital cellular functions such as intestinal epithelial cells differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis. In the present study, we investigated the effect of intestinal epithelial PepT1 expression on microRNA (miRNA) expression/secretion in the colons of control mice and in mice with experimentally induced colonic inflammation (colitis). The colonic miRNA expression was deregulated in both colitis and control mice but the deregulation of miRNA expression/secretion was specific to colonic tissue and did not affect other tissues such as spleen and liver. Intestinal epithelial PepT1-dependent deregulation of colonic miRNA expression not only affects epithelial cells but also other cell types, such as intestinal macrophages. Importantly, we found the miRNA 23b which was known to be involved in inflammatory bowel disease was secreted and transported between cells to impose a gene-silencing effect on recipient intestinal macrophages. Based on our data, we may conclude that the expression of a specific protein, PepT1, in the intestine affects local miRNA expression/secretion in the colon on a tissue specific manner and may play an important role during the induction and progression of colitis. Colonic miRNA expression/secretion, regulated by intestinal epithelial PepT1, could play a crucial role in cell-to-cell communication during colitis.
Thermodynamic study of the NaCl Na2SO4 Na2Cr2O7 H2O system at the temperature 298.15 K

Abstract The Pitzer ion-interaction model has been used for thermodynamic simulation of the ternary NaClNa 2 Cr 2 O 7 H 2 O and Na 2 SO 4 Na 2 Cr 2 O 7 H 2 O, and the quaternary NaClNa 2 SO 4 -Na 2 Cr 2 O 7 -H 2 O systems at T=298.15 K. The necessary thermodynamic functions (binary and ternary parameters of interionic interaction and thermodynamic solubility products) have been calculated and the theoretical solubility isotherms have been plotted. Good agreement between experimentally determined and calculated solubilites has been found.
Welfare reform and the subjective well-being of single mothers

Although a large body of research examines the impact of welfare reform, there remains considerable uncertainty as to whether single mothers’ well-being improved in the wake of these policy changes. Using unique data from the DDB Worldwide Communications Life StyleTM survey, this paper exploits a large battery of survey questions on self-reported life satisfaction and physical and mental health to study the impact of welfare reform on the subjective well-being of single mothers. The identification strategy relies on a difference-in-differences framework to estimate intent-to-treat effects for the welfare waiver and TANF periods. Results indicate that the bundle of TANF reforms had mostly positive effects on single mothers’ subjective well-being. These women experienced an increase in life satisfaction, greater optimism about the future, and more financial satisfaction. Furthermore, these improvements did not come at a cost of reducing mental and physical health. Welfare waivers, in contrast, had largely neutral effects on well-being. I provide indirect evidence that the increase in single mothers’ employment after welfare reform can plausibly explain the gains in subjective well-being.
A parametric experimental study of isolated rectangular nozzles

A parametric study has been conducted in the Langley 16-Foot Transonic Tunnel on an isolated nonaxisymmetric fuselage, simulating a twin-engine fighter. The effects of aft-end closure distribution (top/bottom nozzle flap boattail angle vs. nozzle sidewall boattail angle) and afterbody/nozzle corner treatment (sharp or radius) were investigated. Four different closure distributions with three different corner radii were tested. Tests were conducted over a range of Mach numbers from 0.40-1.25 at zero degrees angle of attack. Solid plume simulators were used to simulate the jet exhaust.
Determination of inorganic cations in brine solutions by ion chromatography

The method for analysis of inorganic cations in brine solutions was developed. Ion chromatography is a well-established and accepted technique in the determination of a variety of inorganic ions. However, there are significant complications when ion chromatography is used to determine trace concentrations of inorganic ions in brine matrices. The brine solution in our study was made to simulate the solution from the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant. Instrumental parameters such as eluent composition, flow-rates, and sample loop volumes were investigated to arrive at the optimum condition for the determination of the cations with minimal dilution. Separation was carried out in a Dionex CG12A/CS12A with 8.25 mM H2SO4 as eluent at 1.2 ml/min flow-rate. Our results indicated that ion chromatography is an accurate and a good alternative method for the analysis of cations in brine solution.
Protein kinase Cδ signaling downstream of the EGF receptor mediates migration and invasiveness of prostate cancer cells

Tumor progression to the invasive phenotype occurs secondary to upregulated signaling from growth factor receptors that drive key cellular responses like proliferation, migration, and invasion. We hypothesized that Protein kinase Cδ (PKCδ)-mediated transcellular contractility is required for migration and invasion of prostate tumor cells. Two invasive human prostate cancer cell lines, DU145 cells overexpressing wildtype human EGFR (DU145WT) and PC3 cells, were studied. PKCδ is overexpressed in these cells relative to normal prostate epithelial cells, and is activated downstream of EGFR leading to cell motility via modulation of myosin light chain activity. Abrogation of PKCδ using Rottlerin and specific siRNA significantly decreased migration and invasion of both cell lines in vitro. Both PKCδ and phosphorylated PKCδ protein levels were higher in human prostate cancer tissue relative to normal donor prostate as assessed by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Thus, we conclude that PKCδ inhibition can limit migration and invasion of prostate cancer cells.
Breed Differences in Heat Tolerance of Day-Old Baby Chicks

Abstract The purpose of the tests reported here was to determine if breed and sex differences occurred in day-old baby chicks when exposed to high environmental temperature. A difference in susceptibility to high temperatures has been observed in White Leghorn hens and other dual-purpose breeds (Hutt, 1938). MATERIALS AND METHODS Day-old baby chicks were placed in standard fibre-board summer-size chick boxes, the dimensions of which were 24″×18″×6″. The boxes were sealed except for a single ⅝-inch hole in the lid of each compartment and kept in a constant temperature room for varying times at approximately 100°F. The temperatures inside the boxes at chick level were measured by means of thermocouples protected by a wire screen and a potentiometer (Leeds and Northrup 8662). At the termination of each test all chicks were autopsied and the sex ascertained. The time of exposure was determined by the percentage kill as estimated by the sound . . .
It's the problem, stupid!

A serial entrepreneur learns that the world's most exciting, groundbreaking technology is pointless if it is unable to address an urgent and relevant need.
Regulation of substance P receptor system in rat striatum by chronic naltrexone treatment

Abstract Chronic blockade of opioid receptors by naltrexone increases opioid peptides in the striatum, and up-regulates brain opioid receptors resulting in functional supersensitivity. Striatal SP content was increased 3.5-fold after 8 days of naltrexone treatment relative to control animals. The present study was undertaken to determine whether SP receptors in the striatum and SP receptor-coupled second messenger system are modulated by increased striatal SP content induced by chronic opioid receptor blockade. The binding affinity and capacity of SP receptors, determined using [125I]Bolton-Hunter SP ([125I]BHSP) labeled at Lys3, in striatal synaptosomal membranes were not significantly altered by chronic blockade of opioid receptors. Although the concentrations of [Sar9,Met (O2)11]SP, a NK-1 receptor-specific agonist, and SP(1–7), an aminoterminal major metabolite of SP, required to inhibit half of [125I]BHSP binding (IC50) in striatal synaptosomal membranes were significantly decreased, the IC50s for SP and an NK-2 receptor-specific agonist, [Nle10]NK A(4–10), remained unchanged by chronic naltrexone treatment. The data suggest that naltrexone which has no SP receptor antagonistic action, not only indirectly acts on SP-ergic neurons but also causes a change in the apparent affinity of NK-1 receptor (as reflected by changes in IC50 values) in the striatum. Cellular inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate [Ins(1,4,5)P3], quantified by a highly sensitive and selective radioreceptor mass assay, was increased in the striatum by 28% relative to control levels. With [3H]Ins(1,4,5)P3 as a ligand, Scatchard analyses of the concentration-dependent saturation curves showed that the density of striatal intracellular Ins(1,4,5)P3 receptors was increased by 53%. The levels of SP and cellular Ins(1,4,5)P3, and the density of Ins(1,4,5)P3 receptors in the cerebellum, used as a positive control, were unchanged by chronic naltrexone treatment. The findings of opiate antagonist-induced increases in SP striatal content and Ins(1,45)P3 receptor densities, appear to support the concept of a role of endogenous opioids in the regulation of SP receptor activity. The data also suggest that inter-regulatory mechanisms exist between phospholipase C/phosphoinositide-coupled receptors such as SP receptors, and adenylate cyclase-coupled inhibitory receptors, such as opioid receptors.
Magnetism of iron pyrite (FeS2) — a Mössbauer study in an external magnetic field

Abstract The Mossbauer effect in the presence of external fields up to 36 kOe has been used to show the absence of a magnetic moment at the iron atom in FeS 2 . The electric field gradient at the iron nucleus was found to be negative.
Family Unification Program: Housing Services for Homeless Child Welfare–Involved Families

The Family Unification Program—a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development initiative to facilitate interagency collaboration between the child welfare and public housing service systems—aims to stabilize families at risk for parent–child separation by addressing housing needs. Findings from a randomized controlled trial suggest that families referred to the program experienced lower risk for homelessness and out-of-home placement compared with child welfare services as usual. The findings suggest that housing services offer an effective alternative to foster care.
Acquisition of in vitro growth autonomy during B16 melanoma malignant progression is associated with autocrine stimulation by transferrin and fibronectin.

Four mouse B16 melanoma subclones representing distinct stages in the benign-to-malignant progression of that tumor (G3.15, G3.5, G3.12, and G3.26), and three phenotype conversion variants with enhanced malignancy (G3.15*, G3.5*, and G3.12*), were comparatively examined for exogenous mitogen and growth factor requirements and for responsiveness to exogenous and endogenous growth modulators in monolayer culture. Growth behavior in serum-free medium with or without mitogen or growth factor supplements, and in supplemented quiescent serum-containing medium, confirmed previous indications that the G3.5 and G3.15* phenotypes were identical, as were the G3.26 and G3.12* phenotypes. However, G3.12 differed from the closest conversion equivalent, G3.5*, and probably represents an aberrant phenotype within this sequence. There was a direct relationship between degree of malignancy (G3.15 → G3.5 → G3.5* → G3.26), growth capacity in serum-free medium, and responsiveness to transferrin. Only G3.5*, G3.26, and G3.12* cells were growth-autonomous in serum-free medium and also highly responsive to mitogens. The polypeptide growth factors epidermal growth factor, platelet-derived growth factor, basic fibroblast growth factor, transforming growth factor-α, and insulinlike growth factor-1 and -2 were generally stimulatory in quiescent medium, but the degree of growth promotion was unrelated to malignancy level. Transforming growth factor-β1 was inhibitory to the more benign populations (G3.15, G3.5, and G3.15*) but stimulated proliferation of other cells. All populations produced autocrine fibronectin, and G3.12, G3.5*, G3.26, and G3.12* cells also produced autocrine transferrin. Only G3.12 cells failed to utilize both of those factors. Reversible mitogen-stimulated G3.12 cell growth was accompanied by partial and reversible responsiveness to both autocrine transferrin and fibronectin, whereas permanent stimulation by both factors characterized all growth-autonomous populations.
The attraction of the guitar as an instrument of motivation, preference, and choice for use with clients in music therapy: A review of the literature

Abstract The guitar has been referred to as both one of the principal instruments in music therapy and an instrument of motivation, preference, and choice, partly because clients may express preference for the guitar or seem attracted to or motivated by it. In this article, an examination of the literature is made to determine how the guitar has been reportedly used in clinical music therapy settings. English-language sources were searched both electronically and by hand, and were only included if the criteria of client preference for, attraction to, choice of, or motivation towards guitar was discussed. The search yielded a total of 64 sources representing a 40-year period (1966–2005). The total number of sources for each of the age categories included: children, 19; adolescents, 18; adults, 23; and seniors, 4. Within each age range, sources are reviewed by special need areas, with the areas ordered alphabetically. Finally, sources within these need areas are reviewed in chronological order of publication. A conclusion section summarizes the findings in three broad areas. These include the increased use of guitar as reported across the 40-year period, the shift in the percentage of age ranges with whom music therapists are using guitar by decade of review, and the relationship between client populations and need-related focuses across the four age ranges.
Classification of electrically conducting ‘electron-transfer’ compounds by crystal structure

Organic and metal-organic electron-transfer solids can be classified by crystal structure, those known to date being divided intohomosoric, in which identical molecules stack infinitely,heterosoric, in which different molecules stack alternately, andnonsoric, non-stacked types. Only homosoric solids have high electrical conductivity.
Heavy metal pollution in the sediments of the Coeur d'Alene River, Idaho

Analysis of sediment samples collected from the Coeur d'Alene River in northern Idaho, USA, indicates that the main stem and the south fork of the river are contaminated with heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Mn, and Zn) from the local mining operations. Laboratory experiments indicate that these metals in the sediments can be leached and reach saturation concentrations in water in a relatively short period of time. The rate of leaching of heavy metals with distilled water appeared to follow first-order kinetics. The saturation concentrations of Mn and Zn in water reached ppm levels from the leaching process. Cadmium and Pb are much less soluble relative to Zn in the sediments. The high concentrations of heavy metals in the sediments are a source of contamination that should be considered for the water quality management planning of the Coeur d'Alene River-Lake system.
Evaluation of the new cesium-131 seed for use in low-energy x-ray brachytherapy.

Characterization measurements and calculations were performed on a new medical seed developed by IsoRay Inc. in Richland, Washington, that utilizes the short-lived isotope 131Cs. This is the first medical seed to utilize 131Cs, and this model has recently received FDA 510(k) clearance. The objective of this work was to characterize the dosimetric properties of the new seed according to the AAPM Task Group 43 recommendations. Cesium-131 is a low-energy x-ray emitter, with the most prominent peaks in the 29 keV to 34 keV region. The intended application is brachytherapy for treating cancers in prostate, breast, head and neck, lung, and pancreas. The evaluations performed included air-kerma strength, radial dose function, anisotropy in phantom, half-life, energy spectra in phantom and in air, and internal activity. The results indicate the CS-1 seeds have a dose-rate constant of 0.911 cGy hr-1 U-1 in water, dose penetration characteristics similar to 125I and 103Pd, anisotropy function values on the order of 0.71 at short distances and small angles, and an average anisotropy factor of 0.964. The overall dosimetric characteristics are similar to 125I and 103Pd seeds with the exception of half-life, which is 9.7 days, as compared to 17 days for 103Pd and 60 daysmore » for 125I. The shorter half-life may offer significant advantages in biological effectiveness.« less
F1FO ATPase Vesicle Preparation and Technique for Performing Patch Clamp Recordings of Submitochondrial Vesicle Membranes

Mitochondria are involved in many important cellular functions including metabolism, survival1, development and, calcium signaling2. Two of the most important mitochondrial functions are related to the efficient production of ATP, the energy currency of the cell, by oxidative phosphorylation, and the mediation of signals for programmed cell death3. The enzyme primarily responsible for the production of ATP is the F1FO-ATP synthase, also called ATP synthase4-5. In recent years, the role of mitochondria in apoptotic and necrotic cell death has received considerable attention. In apoptotic cell death, BCL-2 family proteins such as Bax enter the mitochondrial outer membrane, oligomerize and permeabilize the outer membrane, releasing pro-apoptotic factors into the cytosol6. In classic necrotic cell death, such as that produced by ischemia or excitotoxicity in neurons, a large, poorly regulated increase in matrix calcium contributes to the opening of an inner membrane pore, the mitochondrial permeability transition pore or mPTP. This depolarizes the inner membrane and causes osmotic shifts, contributing to outer membrane rupture, release of pro-apoptotic factors, and metabolic dysfunction. Many proteins including Bcl-xL7 interact with F1FO ATP synthase, modulating its function. Bcl-xL interacts directly with the beta subunit of F1FO ATP synthase, and this interaction decreases a leak conductance within the F1FOATPasecomplex, increasing the net transport of H+ by F1FO during F1FO ATPase activity8 and thereby increasing mitochondrial efficiency. To study the activity and modulation of the ATP synthase, we isolated from rodent brain submitochondrial vesicles (SMVs) containing F1FO ATPase. The SMVs retain the structural and functional integrity of the F1FO ATPase as shown in Alavian et al. Here, we describe a method that we have used successfully for the isolation of SMVs from rat brain and we delineate the patch clamp technique to analyze channel activity (ion leak conductance) of the SMVs.
Four types of loyalty in early modern central Asia: the Tūqāy-Timūrid takeover of greater Mā Warā al-Nahr, 1598-1605

This is a complex and sophisticated work of political history, which combines a framework of comparative social theory with a wide array of local historical sources to explain the whys and wherefor...
Human Resources Wasted in Government? - Who's counting?

U.S. taxpayers spend over $80 billion a year to meet theFederalcivilian payroll. Yet there are signs that a significant part of this investment is being wasted. For example, about $2 billion of the total is spent to pay employess who are on sick leave and, in a recent year, over 18 percent of the workforce left government service. While controls are placed on many government assests to guard against waste, similar concern is not directed at the waste of human resources. There are many questions we can’t answer, such as what it costs when workers file grievances and EEO complaints, what it costs for excessive use of leave, and whether supposed cost saving steps (e.g. cutting training funds) really save money in the long run.Pressure to improve government’s productivity, cut the deifcit, and improve quality ofservice to taxpayers makes better control of our human resources Terry Newell is chief of the Special programs Branch, Horace Mann learning Center, U.S. Department of Education. This article was writte...
Intention and teleology

An agent's intentional doings are often taken to be those for which a certain sort of teleological explanation is available: they are the ones that can be fitted into sequences of the form "agent A-s in order to B, B-s in order to C, and so on". It is natural to think that such teleological orderings are produced entirely by the agent's own (perhaps idealized) practical reasoning, and that they thus reveal the intentions with which the agent acts: he A-s with the intention of thereby B-ing, B-s with the intention of thereby C-ing, and so on. This in turn suggests that if an agent X-s "nonbasically", he X-s intentionally if and only if he does something else with the intention of thereby X-ing. But what an agent intentionally does can also depend upon how his doings fit into "autonomous teleologies"teleologies having their origins outside of his will. If an agent intentionally A-s as part of his job, he might thereby intentionally B not because his intention in A-ing is to B, but because A-ing is for the sake of B-ing in his job's teleology. Similarly, if an agent intentionally A-s, where A-ing consists in operating a machine, he might thereby intentionally B not because his intention in A-ing is to B, but because A-ing is for the sake of B-ing in the machine's teleology.
Small and large titanium plates are equally effective for treating mandible fractures.

Purpose The use of small titanium plates for the management of mandibular fractures continues to be a source of controversy because of their load-sharing properties. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether the use of small plates for mandibular fractures is as efficacious as large plates in a large level I trauma center. Materials and Methods Consecutive subjects presenting with mandibular fractures were randomly allocated to the use of either small plates (group 1) or large plates (group 2). The primary predictor variable was the plate size. The primary outcome variable was fracture union. The secondary outcomes included complications and operative time. Statistical analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon rank sum test for ordinal and continuous variables and the χ2 test or Fisher exact test for proportions. Results A total of 127 consecutive subjects with a fracture of the mandible were enrolled in the study. Of the 127 subjects, 53 completed the required follow-up of at least 6 weeks. There was no difference in the rate of fracture union between the 2 groups (P = .95). Conclusions The study findings suggest that the use of small plates and monocortical screws for mandibular fractures results in favorable outcomes compared with using larger plates and bicortical screws.
The Contested Role of Heterogeneity in Collective Action: Some Evidence from Community Forestry in Nepal

Abstract The role of heterogeneity in affecting the likelihood of collective action is strongly debated in the theoretical literature. We present evidence from a study of 18 forest user groups in Nepal. Heterogeneity is not a strong predictor of the level of collective activity. Rather, heterogeneity is a challenge that can be overcome by good institutional design when the interests of those controlling collective-choice mechanisms are benefited by investing time and effort to craft better rules.
Stereotypes, Race, and Coaching

The purpose of the current investigation was to examine the influence of socially held stereotypes with the presence of discrimination in intercollegiate athletics by investigating whether sport-related racial stereotypes influenced promotability ratings of applicants differing by race and qualification levels. This was achieved by way of an experiment with undergraduate students. Results demonstrated that White raters relied on sport-related and racial stereotypes when evaluating and selecting the most promotable applicant for a head coaching position. Findings have important implications for practices within sport organizations as a disproportionate number of decision-makers are White and therefore may also make personnel decisions based on such beliefs.
Design of High-Specificity Nanocarriers by Exploiting Non-Equilibrium Effects in Cancer Cell Targeting

Although targeting of cancer cells using drug-delivering nanocarriers holds promise for improving therapeutic agent specificity, the strategy of maximizing ligand affinity for receptors overexpressed on cancer cells is suboptimal. To determine design principles that maximize nanocarrier specificity for cancer cells, we studied a generalized kinetics-based theoretical model of nanocarriers with one or more ligands that specifically bind these overexpressed receptors. We show that kinetics inherent to the system play an important role in determining specificity and can in fact be exploited to attain orders of magnitude improvement in specificity. In contrast to the current trend of therapeutic design, we show that these specificity increases can generally be achieved by a combination of low rates of endocytosis and nanocarriers with multiple low-affinity ligands. These results are broadly robust across endocytosis mechanisms and drug-delivery protocols, suggesting the need for a paradigm shift in receptor-targeted drug-delivery design.
Method for Extracting Pear Thrips (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) from Forest Soil

After soil samples were rinsed through sieves, pear thrips, Taeniothrips inconsequens (Uzel), adults and larvae were separated from the residue by a heptane flotation process. Thrips were counted on filter paper under a microscope at 8 × magnification. To test efficiency of the extraction procedure, pear thrips adults and larvae were added to samples of forest soil before extraction. In 80 trials, 59 ± 4.7% of the adults and 84 ± 2.3% of the larvae were recovered by heptane Rotation. The heptane procedure was significantly more efficient than a MgSO4 flotation method, which gave a recovery of 14 ± 2.9% for adults (30 trials) and 39 ± 3.5% for larvae (40 trials). Extraction by heptane flotation took 52 ± 2.0 min, of which 26 ± 1.8 min were required for counting. Counting time was reduced to ≈ 7 ± 3.4 min when floating organic matter was first removed by adding water to samples and allowing 24 h for thrips to sink. Using this modified procedure, we recovered 88 ± 5.1% of the larvae.
Effect of cotton substrate characteristics upon surfactant adsorption

It is shown that the reported differences in anionic surfactant adsorption on cotton can be largely attributed to the presence of variable amounts of natural wax on the fiber surface. High adsorption values with peaks near critical micelle concentration (cmc) result from surfactant adsorption on the wax surface. Wax-free surfaces fail either to show the same high maxima or the same relative magnitude of adsorption. At surfactant cmc the adsorption relationship for waxy cotton (millimoles/g. of cotton) cationic: nonionic: anionic was roughly 66 to 17 to 74. For dewaxed cotton, this became 40 to 10 to nil.
Purification and characterization of apolipoprotein C-II from human plasma by high-pressure liquid chromatography

Abstract Apolipoprotein C-II, which activates lipoprotein lipase, was isolated from normal subjects and purified to homogeneity by reverse-phase high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). The partially purified product from DEAE-cellulose chromatography was eluted from a Radial Pak C18 cartridge in a radial compression module using a linear gradient of 0.01 M ammonium bicarbonate and acetonitrile. The final product was homogeneous by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (pH 8.9), isoelectric focusing (pH 2.5–6.5), Ouchterlony double immunodiffusion, analytical HPLC and amino acid analysis. The purification of apolipoprotein C-II from normal subjects will permit the elucidation of its amino acid sequence and subsequent comparison with the known sequence of apolipoprotein C-II isolated from patients with hyperlipoproteinemia.