cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Falling Forward: Lessons Learned from Real-Life Implementation of Adaptive Learning Solutions

To meet modern organizational job performance needs, effective training solutions must accelerate student learning while simultaneously maintaining exceptionally high standards for learner knowledge and skill proficiency. As organizations seek to revitalize traditional training programs to fit the needs of next-generation learners, innovation incubators allow for the exploration of new technologies to facilitate adaptive learning solutions. Transitioning traditional training programs through an innovation phase and toward cohesive, results-based adaptive learning solutions is a complex undertaking. This transformation is neither a simple nor painless process, and as such it presents many complicated and unexpected challenges. The key to a successful implementation of an adaptive learning program is a structure that allows for extensibility and reproducibility. These characteristics are supported by the adoption of a well-defined process maturity model and a deliberate instructional systems design framework based in human performance improvement and learning science and ensure the deliberate application of learning technologies. To mitigate challenges and ensure quality for future adaptive learning design efforts, SAIC presents a phased roadmap that describes programmatic structure required for success.
Ecologies of Globalization: Mountain Governance and Multinatural Planetary Politics

Mountain governance has emerged as new node of planetary management of non-human nature. Referencing the common ecological fates suffered by mountains around the world because of climate change, it aims to fuse ecological, political, and cultural perspectives together in a new political object. One of its central organizing categories is the sacred landscape, which is neither a purely natural object nor a socially valuable one, but rather, an exceptional sacred one to be protected, conserved, and/or developed. This chapter enquires into the production of global mountains by secular governance regimes. Against a number of accounts of environmental governance, it first argues that mountains are multiple objects, not singular natural ones. It then suggests that sacredness is a particularly problematic way of rendering these multiple mountains as singular, in ways that undermine the very ends of mountain governance. Instead, in the service of finding a more politically plural, but also more multinatural, planetary politics, the chapter proposes an analytic and political focus on routes and routing, which better show the multiple mountains that are in play in these regions, drawing on the transboundary region surrounding Mt. Kailash in the Himalayas as a case study.
Dynamo States with Strikingly Different Symmetries Coexisting in Global Solar Simulations

We present new global 3D MHD simulations of the solar convection zone that exhibit two distinct states of the dynamo coexisting simultaneously. We discuss our results in terms of the solar active longitudes and hemispheric asymmetry.
Photothermal infrared imaging: identification and visualization of micro- and nanoplastics in environmental matrices

Infrared photothermal heterodyne imaging (IR-PHI) is an established all-optical, table-top approach for conducting super-resolution mid-infrared microscopy and spectroscopy on submicrometer-sized particles. The instrument’s capabilities are highlighted by its ability to operate in spectroscopically-crowded environments. This includes specimens obtained from environmental matrices where particulates with different morphologies, chemical compositions, and abundances exist. Here, proof-of-concept IR-PHI measurements have been conducted on anthropogenic micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) derived from the breakdown of consumer products. In particular, IR-PHI is used to characterize MNPs extracted from steeped plastic teabags and floor dust from a household vacuum. IR-PHI results reveal the presence of complex MNP structures made of polyamide fibers and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene MNPs.
Nonabelian Monopoles Break Color

Grand unified theories1 (GUTs) are gauge theories based on a unifying group G which is spontaneously broken into a subgroup H. Such theories predict “magnetic” monopoles2 as topological excitations. These monopoles are generalizations of the abelian Dirac monopoles, in particular some of them are sources of long range nonabelian magnetic fields.
Channel estimation for MIMO-OFDM with training overhead trade-off

We propose a new technique for initial channel estimation in packet-mode MIMO-OFDM. A maximum likelihood estimator uses observations of the channel spectra obtained by means of a carefully designed multi-transmitter channel probing sequence. The sequence length is controlled by two competing parameters, which allow for an explicit and fine trade-off between the channel estimation overhead and the quality of the resulting estimates. Compared to the training sequence used in the IEEE 802.11a standard, our technique requires 6 to 8 times less training symbols in order to attain channel estimates of equal accuracy.
The Amino Acid Sequence of the A Protein (α Subunit) of the Tryptophan Synthetase of Escherichia coli III. THE CHYMOTRYPTIC PEPTIDES

The isolation and partial sequences of 48 chymotryptic peptides of the tryptophan synthetase A protein (α subunit) of Escherichia coli are described. Some 17 peptic and 12 tryptic peptides isolated from the chymotrypsin-resistant core fraction are also described. Together, they account for 254 of the 267 amino acid residues in the A protein. Of the 23 overlapping peptides required to link the 24 nonoverlapping tryptic peptides comprising the A protein, 22 overlaps can be recognized. However, because of the abundance of single residue overlaps, many of these cannot be defined with certainty. The assignment of overlaps and the nature of the chymotryptic core are discussed with reference to the proposed structure of the A protein.
Orthodontic-orthognathic management with secondary lip and nose revision of unilateral cleft lip and palate individual

Abstract Background This case report describes orthodontic, orthognathic, and secondary lip and rhinoplasty treatment of a patient with a unilateral complete lip and palate. Multidisciplinary treatment approach is used for the correction of severe crossbite, hypoplastic maxilla, large mandible, and collapsed arch along with a lip scar and deformed nose. Methods Emphasis is placed on a phased treatment approach with orthodontic treatment, orthognathic surgery, and adjunct surgical procedures carried out at phased intervals, accentuating the achievement of objectives with each phase. Results The treatment via the multidisciplinary approach brought good results and showed good retention at 3 years post-treatment. Conclusion A multidisciplinary treatment approach is the treatment of choice for cleft lip and palate case to achieve a realistic outcome.
Inter-diagrammatic Reasoning and Digital Geometry

In this paper we examine inter-diagrammatic reasoning (IDR) as a framework for digital geometry. We show how IDR can be used to represent digital geometry in two dimensions, as well as providing a concise language for specifying algorithms. As an example, we specify algorithms and examine the algorithmic complexity of using IDR for reasoning about the relationships between planar regions. Finally, we discuss the circumstance under which the algorithmic abstractions in IDR can produce efficient algorithms under realistic computational assumptions.
The Effect of Aging on the Seminiferous Epithelium of the Brown Norway Rat

Aging of the mammalian testis is often accompanied by loss of germ cells and, as a result, decreased daily sperm production. It is currently unknown whether cell loss is the result of aging-related changes in germ cells or whether there are also aging-related changes in the Sertoli cells that normally support germ development and differentiation. To begin to compare the effects of age on germ cells and on Sertoli cells, we examined brown Norway rats of 6, 12, 18, 21, and 24 months of age for the frequency of seminiferous tubule regression and total testis contents of transcripts for three Sertoli cell products: SGP-2, transferrin, and cyclic protein-2 (CP-2)/cathepsin L. Histological analysis revealed no changes in the seminiferous epithelium from 6 to 12 months of age. However, from 12 to 24 months of age, the percentage of normal tubules gradually decreased from 95% to 15% of the total while the percentage of fully regressed tubules (containing no germ cells per tubule cross section) increased from 0% to 78%. In our analysis of specific Sertoli cell transcripts, we noted no change in total testis content of SGP-2 mRNA from 6 to 24 months. However, total testis content of transferrin mRNA was unchanged from 6 to 18 months, but increased by 24 months to 368% of the content of a 6-month-old testis. In contrast, total testis content of CP-2/cathepsin L mRNA was unchanged from 6 to 12 months, but decreased by 24 months to 58% of the content of a 6-month-old testis.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
WOLFF-PARKINSON-WHITE SYNDROME. REPORT OF A CASE WITH BOTH TYPE A AND TYPE B PRE-EXCITATION.

Abstract A case is reported in which both type A and type B conduction of the Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome occur. Attention is called to the rarity of this observation.
Vexing Questions and Lingering Doubts

I read Testing the National Covenant with the same admiration that I read The Physician’s Covenant. Once again, Bill May offers his readers careful argumentation, lucid prose and illuminating examples. He also asks some tough questions: ‘‘Does the covenant of a nation, itself composed of immigrants, collapse inherently on the terms of its own founding?’’ (xviii) And, he wonders: ‘‘Is it possible [that there will be] a major political course correction in the United States?’’ (33) Neither of these questions is rhetorical; both are quite vexing. And May addresses these concerns with great care. In the process, I think he also avoids the most egregious forms of civil religion. I mention that at the outset, because to talk about the notion of a ‘‘national covenant’’ and avoid falling into the trap of civil religion is already an achievement. I offer that judgment as a Christian theologian who has been very critical of the ways that covenantal discourse can get subsumed by nationalist forms of civil religion. The invitation to respond to Professor May’s book reminds me of an experience that I had several years ago while attending a Lilly Fellows National Conference at Calvin College on the topic of ‘‘Cosmopolitanism.’’ After we heard the first speaker’s presentation, this company of faculty and administrators from churchrelated colleges and universities divided into small groups to discuss what we had heard. The convener of my group invited everyone to introduce themselves. We were supposed to explain in what sense we understand ourselves to be ‘‘cosmopolitans.’’ I was the last person to address the question. Everyone else in the group was able to own that description, albeit with qualifications of one sort or another. My response was to say that I had never been able to think of myself that way because I was conscious of the fact that I come from a long line of immigrants on both sides of my family, and I myself have lived in more than 42 homes over the course of my lifetime. I do not understand myself to be a cosmopolitan, but I am always aware of the fact that other people thought that I should be! It is hard to be a cosmopolitan if you grow up in Arkansas, and it is hard to buy into the notion of a ‘‘national covenant’’ if you studied with Stanley Hauerwas at Duke and are identified with the theological ethics of John Howard Yoder as I am. At the same time, like Prof. May, I care a great deal about seeking the common
Sex Difference in Coronary Endothelial Dysfunction in Apolipoprotein E Knockout Mouse: Role of NO and A2A Adenosine Receptor

Objective Sex plays an important role in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases. This study aims to investigate how sex impacts on the coronary flow regulation during atherosclerosis. Methods ApoE KO mouse fed with western diet were used for atherosclerosis model. Coronary RH and flow response were measured using Langendorff-perfused isolated hearts. Results Coronary RH and A23187-induced NO-dependent flow increases were significantly reduced in female (by ~28% and 48%, respectively), but not in male atherosclerotic mice. However, SNP-induced coronary vasodilation remains intact in both sexes of ApoE KO mice. L-NAME (NOS inhibitor) reduced baseline flow and RH to a lesser extent in ApoE KO (by ~19% and 31%) vs. WT (~30% and 59%, respectively), and abolished the sex difference in RH. In contrast, SCH58261 (a selective A2A AR antagonist) reduced the baseline flow and RH to a greater extent in atherosclerotic mice, but did not affect the sex difference. Immunofluorescent staining of coronary arteries showed a similar A2A AR upregulation in both sexes of ApoE KO mice. Conclusions Our results suggest that during atherosclerosis, female mice are more susceptible to NO-dependent endothelial dysfunction and the upregulation of A2A AR may serve as a compensatory mechanism to counteract the compromised endothelial function.
Ropinirole: a dopamine agonist for the treatment of Parkinson's disease

The pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy, adverse effects, dosage and administration, and formulary considerations of ropinirole are reviewed. Ropinirole is a nonergoline dopamine agonist that binds to dopamine D2-receptors; the drug is indicated for use in the symptomatic treatment of early and late Parkinson's disease (PD). Ropinirole is rapidly absorbed after oral administration and undergoes extensive hepatic metabolism to active metabolites. The elimination half-life averages about six hours. Ropinirole has a low potential to interact with other drugs likely to be administered to PD patients. In patients with early PD, initial monotherapy with ropinirole was more effective than placebo or bromocriptine in the absence of selegiline and was as effective as bromocriptine in the presence of selegiline. Ropinirole was as effective as levodopa in patients with earlier stages of PD. In one subset of patients with advanced PD not adequately controlled by levodopa, adjunctive ropinirole was more effective than placebo and bromocriptine. Ropinirole was more effective than bromocriptine in patients previously given high-dose levodopa and was as effective in patients previously given low-dose levodopa or adjunctive dopamine agonist therapy. The most frequent adverse effects are nausea, somnolence, and dizziness; the dosage should be increased gradually to minimize adverse effects. Ropinirole is less expensive than bromocriptine and pergolide and similar in cost to pramipexole. Ropinirole appears to be a useful addition to existing therapeutic approaches to PD and is approved for both early and later stages of the disease.
Real-time ultrasonic monitoring of fiber-matrix debonding in ceramic-matrix composite

Abstract Real-time ultrasonic techniques were developed for monitoring damage in a unidirectional ceramic-matrix composite under longitudinal tensile loading. Specifically, shear-wave transducers producing waves polarized in the transverse to the fiber direction were used in contact with the specimen to detect the initiation and propagation of fiber—matrix debonding, and to determine the transverse shear modulus and its degradation. The ultrasonically measured transverse shear modulus and its degradation was in reasonably good agreement with a prediction based on a modified shear lag model and interpolation between available solutions for fully bonded and fully unbonded fibers.
Support for selection of a methamphetamine cleanup standard in Colorado

Abstract Methamphetamine production for illicit use occurs in makeshift labs and is associated with the release of numerous chemicals, including methamphetamine residues. These methamphetamine residues may pose a health risk to residents who reoccupy these structures after property seizures. Several states have established technology-based cleanup standards for methamphetamine, but none have examined the health-protectiveness of these standards. In response to Colorado House Bill 04-1182, exposure intakes correlated with three technology-based standards were calculated for various groups of individuals. Intakes were assessed for a 1-year-old infant, 6-year-old child, and a female of childbearing age. Exposure intakes were compared to toxicity reference values developed from developmental endpoints following methamphetamine exposure from the available literature. Uncertainty factors were applied to the lowest adverse effect levels observed in these studies to arrive at the toxicity reference values. These reference values were greater than the calculated intakes from each proposed technology standard, suggesting that all of the proposed standards would be protective of human health exposure. The cost and practicality of attaining each of the proposed standards was also factored into the decision making process. In their final regulation (6 CCR 1014-3), the CDPHE selected 0.5 μg/100 cm 2 as the final cleanup standard for methamphetamine residues.
The Effect of Phase Changes in White Light Interferometry

The phase change accompanying the reflection of white light from metal films was studied experimentally by interferometric methods. As predicted by electromagnetic theory, the phase change was found to vary with the wavelength of light. Corrections for this variation must be made in white light multiple-beam interferometry if the full sensitivity of the method is to be used in making thickness measurements. Practical suggestions are given for making the required corrections. It is demonstrated experimentally and theoretically that these corrections are practically independent of the film thickness. Precise measurements of phase changes on silver films gave results closely consistent with those calculated from published values of the optical constants of silver. No such agreement was found for aluminum.
Peer assessments of performance and ability: An exploratory meta-analysis of statistical artifacts and contextual moderators

The validity of peer assessments as an additional source of information in personnel decision-making was assessed via Hunter and Schmidt's (1989) meta-analytic approach. Fifty-six correlations on peer assessments of ability and performance were located. After correcting for sampling error and imperfect reliability, the mean correlation was estimated to be .69, with a 95% confidence interval of .46 to .92. Also, contextual factors hypothesized to affect observed validities were evaluated. Although much potentially important information is not reported in available studies, the data suggested that use of peer assessment data, time of acquaintance, and type of criterion affect observed validity. Implications for future research are discussed.
Surface morphology of organic thin films at various vapor flux

The surface morphology of the organic energetic material pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN) grown on silicon substrates has been investigated. The surface structure of the films reveal clearly differentiated morphologies which is dependent on the vapor flux. Dendrite crystals are formed with flux of 0.03 nm/s while the morphology shows a transition from dendrite branches to grain growth as the flux is increased to 0.3 nm/s. The deposition thickness did not show an obvious influence on the surface microstructure. Therefore, the deposition flux allows the production of PETN films with desired surface morphology in a controllable and reproducible way.
Southern Textile Mill Villages on the Eve of World War II: The Courtenay Mill of South Carolina

The southern textile mill village has received little empirical attention. I summarize the results of ongoing research using the records of the Courtenay Mill of Newry, South Carolina. There is evidence that stable family life was rewarded, mill housing was used to create dependence, and locally recruited workers recieved less pay than those from other areas. I conclude with a discussion of the possible causes of the local operative earnings differential and indicate other areas for future research.
Recursive calculation of matrix elements for the generalized seniority shell model

A recursive calculational scheme is developed for matrix elements in the generalized seniority scheme for the nuclear shell model. Recurrence relations are derived which permit straightforward and efficient computation of matrix elements of one-body and two-body operators and basis state overlaps.
Sulfur isotope systematics at the 21°N site, East Pacific Rise

Abstract Hydrogen sulfide in hydrothermal vent fluid at the 21°N site is enriched in 34S relative to Mid-Ocean Ridge basalts, probably by addition of H2S reduced from seawater sulfate by FeO-bearing basalt. Metalliferous sulfides are depleted in 34S relative to the fluid from which they apparently precipitated, the degree of depletion reflecting the microenvironment in which each mineral crystallised and/or kinetic effects. Isotopic compositions of coexisting sulfides in a basal mound are consistent with equilibration at around 445°C, though heating to such a high temperature seems unlikely. Similar sulfides in a black smoker and in a dead chimney are out of isotopic equilibrium at any temperature, apparently reflecting a complex series of replacement mineralisations and post-depositional oxidation, respectively.
Phase II trial of irinotecan plus celecoxib in adults with recurrent malignant glioma.

BACKGROUND In the current study, the authors report a Phase II trial of irinotecan (CPT-11), a topoisomerase I inhibitor active against malignant glioma (MG), with celecoxib, a selective COX-2 inhibitor, among MG patients with recurrent disease. METHODS Patients with MG at any type of recurrence received CPT-11, administered as a 90-minute intravenous infusion on Weeks 1, 2, 4, and 5 of each 6-week cycle plus celecoxib, which was administered continuously at a dose of 400 mg twice a day. CPT-11 was given at a dose of 350 mg/m2 for patients receiving enzyme-inducing antiepileptic drugs (EIAEDs) and at a dose of 125 mg/m2 for those patients not receiving EIAEDs. Assessments were performed after every cycle. The primary endpoint was radiographic response and the secondary endpoints were progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and therapeutic safety. RESULTS Thirty-four of the 37 patients enrolled in the current study (92%) were diagnosed with recurrent GBM and 3 patients (8%) were diagnosed with recurrent anaplastic astrocytoma (AA). Twenty-one patients were receiving EIAEDs and 16 patients were not. The median follow-up time was 76.9 weeks. Concomitant CPT-11 plus celecoxib was found to be well tolerated and safe. Hematologic toxicities of ≥ Grade 3 (according the second version of the Common Toxicity Criteria of the National Cancer Institute) reportedly complicated 8.6% of treatment courses. Grade 3 diarrhea, the most commonly reported nonhematologic toxicity, occurred with equal frequency (8%), regardless of whether the patient was receiving EIAED. Six patients (16%), all whom were diagnosed with recurrent GBM, achieved an objective radiographic response whereas an additional 13 patients (35%) achieved stable disease. The median PFS was 11.0 weeks and the 6-month PFS was reported to be 25.1%. The median OS was 31.5 weeks. CONCLUSIONS The results of the current study confirm that CPT-11 plus celecoxib can be safely administered concurrently at full dose levels, and that this regimen has encouraging activity among heavily pretreated patients with recurrent MG. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
Protein Synthesis by Ribosomes from Eggs of Normal and Thiotepa-Chemosterilized House Flies

The ribosomes from the eggs of normal and thiotepasterilized Musca domestica L. were characterized after sucrose density gradient (SDG) separation by their ability to induce protein synthesis in vitro. Although profiles after SDG separation were similar near the time of oviposition, the normal formation of heavier aggregates did not occur in chemosterilized eggs upon incubation. In a cell-free system, the ribosomes from normal eggs were 1.6 times more active in inducing protein synthesis than the ribosomes from chemosterilized eggs.
Increased brain activity to unpleasant stimuli in individuals with the 7R allele of the DRD4 gene

The aim of the study was to examine functional brain activity in response to unpleasant images in individuals with the 7-repeat (7R) allele compared to individuals with the 4-repeat (4R) allele of the dopamine receptor D4 (DRD4) gene (VNTR in exon 3). Based on the response ready hypothesis, individuals with the DRD4-4R/7R genotype were expected to show greater functional brain activity in response to unpleasant compared to neutral stimuli in specific regions of the frontal, temporal, parietal and limbic lobes, which form the networks involved in attentional, emotional, and preparatory responses. Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging activity was studied in 26 young adults (13 with the DRD4-4R/7R genotype and 13 with the DRD4-4R/4R genotype). Participants were asked to look at and subjectively rate unpleasant and neutral images. Results showed increased brain activity in response to unpleasant images compared to neutral images in the right temporal lobe in participants with the DRD4-4R/7R genotype versus participants with the DRD4-4R/4R genotype. The increase in right temporal lobe activity in individuals with DRD4-4R/7R suggests greater involvement in processing negative emotional stimuli. Intriguingly, no differences were found between the two genotypes in the subjective ratings of the images. The findings corroborate the response ready hypothesis, which suggests that individuals with the 7R allele are more responsive to negative emotional stimuli compared to individuals with the 4R allele of the DRD4 gene.
U.S. interests in the North Pacific

Abstract This article analyzes U.S. interests in the North Pacific region as a whole as seen from the perspective of the federal government. However, the primary focus is on four sets of current issues: (1) U.S. security concerns in the North Pacific; (2) high seas fisheries issues in relation to the stability of the new ocean regime; (3) emerging regional collaboration in knowledge production; and (4) U.S. interests relative to conservation, environmental protection, and nonconsumptive uses. The article concludes that maintaining a “fair balance”; between the interests of coastal states and maritime states requires strong, integrative policy machinery, which the United States now lacks. Consequently, the historic tension between U.S. security interests in the ocean and U.S. interests via‐a‐vis the exploitation and management of living resources has taken on a new dimension both inside the Exclusive Economic Zone and beyond. This new dimension represents avast change in the orientation of U.S. interests i...
Ribonucleotide reduction and the possible role of cobalamin in evolution.

The biological pathways of ribonucleotide reduction are briefly reviewed. The hypothesis is presented that reduction of riboncleoside triphosphates to their deoxynucleotide analogs through the mediation of vitamin B12 or a similar corrinoid preceded and was necessary for the subsequent development of a DNA-type genome.
Intravenous Drug Use and the AIDS Epidemic: Findings from a 20-City Sample of Arrestees

This study identifies characteristics of arrestees at risk for AIDS and assesses the effects of knowledge of AIDS on needle sharing among those who inject drugs. Many of the intravenous drug users—particularly those with multiple sex partners—report that AIDS risk has had no effect on their needle-sharing behavior. A large fraction of those who report that they have altered their behavior in response to AIDS risk nonetheless continue to share needles. These findings indicate that the effectiveness of AIDS counseling in reducing high-risk drug use behaviors among arrestees may depend on the availability of drug treatment.
Differential in vitro response to epidermal growth factor by prenatal murine cranial-base chondrocytes

The retrognathic Brachyrrhine (Br) heterozygote mouse mutant has a very localized morphological deficiency in the sphenoethmoidal region of the anterior cranial base. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that a primary growth defect occurs in that region of Br mice. Primary cell cultures were derived from presumptive nasal septal and sphenoethmoidal regions of Br and wild-type littermates. Cultures were stimulated with 1.0 ng/ml epidermal growth factor (EGF), and [3H]thymidine and [35S] incorporation was measured. Growth of the nasal septal chondrocytes did not differ significantly between groups. In the cultures derived from the sphenoethmoidal region [35S] incorporation was greater, but not significantly so, in the normal group. However, EGF did significantly stimulate proliferation of the sphenoethmoidal chondrocytes in wild-type cultures above that measured in Br cultures. Therefore, the Br genetic aberration is associated with a primary growth defect in the sphenoethmoidal region of the cranial base. These results suggest that growth of the anterior cranial base occurs differentially and that the defect in Br mice results in reduced sphenoidal but not nasal septal growth.
Caveolin-I, a putative tumour suppressor gene

Caveolae (‘little caves’) are plasma membrane specializations of 50–100 nm in diameter, and the caveolins are structural proteins used by cells to form caveolae. We and other investigators have discovered that caveolae organelles may be important both in normal signal transduction and in the pathogenesis of a number of human diseases, such as cancer. Here we describe the functional roles of the caveolin gene family and summarize the evidence that supports a role for caveolae as mediators of a number of cellular signalling processes, including apoptosis.
The effects of steroidal and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents on uptake of evans blue in experimental metastasis

The effects of anti-inflammatory drugs on uptake of Evans blue were studied in solitary Walker carcinosarcomas implanted in the livers of Sprague-Dawley rats. Animals were sacrificed at 5 min, 30 min, and 6 hr after administration of the anti-inflammatory drugs and Evans blue, and spectrophotometric measurements of the Evans blue in tumor and normal liver tissue were carried out. Uptake of Evans blue in the tumors was significantly decreased at all time periods after the injection of the following, as compared to controls: steroids (cortisol, methylprednisolone, and triamcinolone), the antihistamine diphenhydramine, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents (naproxen, ibuprofen, indomethacin, and phenylbutazone). The effects of these drugs on uptake of Evans blue in the normal liver were more variable.
Stresses induced by endodontic stabilizers

The force transmission of tapered, smooth-sided and parallel, threaded-sided single-crystal sapphire endodontic stabilizers was studied and the conclusions were: The stabilizer designs provided substantial fixation of the periodontically compromised model teeth and reduced tooth mobility from 3 to 0. Both stabilizer designs dramatically improved the stress distribution in the supporting structures caused by applied loads. The most distinct and highest intensity of stress concentrations were observed in the models immediately after insertion of the stabilizer. Stresses were reduced with the presence of the fibrous tissue simulation. The most favorable stress distributions were demonstrated, irrespective of configuration, in the models representing full bone-stabilizer encapsulation.
Purification and Separation of Tobacco Mosaic Virus and Southern Bean Mosaic Virus by Agar-gel Filtration

MOST procedures for the purification and concentration of viruses involve either dense packing of virus particles by sedimentation or by chemical or isoelectric precipitation. Although many viruses can be resuspended easily from pellets or precipitates, others are difficult to resuspend and to separate from contaminants following such treatment. In order to avoid this difficulty we have sought to develop virus purification and concentration procedures which: (1) are very gentle to the virus, allowing it to be retained in suspension throughout the procedures used; (2) require only limited amounts of inexpensive equipment; (3) are capable of handling large volumes; (4) are rapidly and easily accomplished.
Improvements in MR angiography using phase-corrected data sets.

The objective ofthis work is refinement ofan MR angiography technique via postprocessing removal of phase errors which inhibit static signal subtraction. Projective views of the object are obtained using interleaved flow-compensated and noncompensated gradient waveforms. Complex subtraction of data sets is required since a projection dephase pulse is used for static signal suppression. This renders the difference image susceptible to systematic phase errors which are modeled asa smoothly varying multiplicative phase function. The error function is estimated by comparison of heavily spatial filtered renditions of the object acquired without projection dephasing in order to minimize influence of flow. The phase correction is then applied to high-resolution data sets collected with projection dephasing 10 enhance flow sensitivity. The technique is demonstrated by improvement of MR angiograms of rats acquired on a 2-T, 31-cm-bore system. 6' 1989
Evaluation of the extracellular proteins in full-scale activated sludges

The proteins present in the extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) of activated sludge flocs were investigated using three cation-associated extraction methods. The subproteomes generated from four full-scale activated sludges were subsequently fractionated by ammonium sulfate precipitation and analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). The results showed that each extraction method led to unique SDS-PAGE protein profiles, which provided strong evidence that the extracted proteins are uniquely associated with specific cations in activated sludge flocs. The comparison of protein profiles across sludges from different treatment plants revealed that extracts obtained using a cation-exchange resin exhibited similar protein banding patterns while sulfide- and base-extracted EPS led to more variable protein profiles. Analysis of several SDS-PAGE bands by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry of tryptic digests led to the identification of several bacterial proteins as well as sewage-derived polypeptides (human elastase IIIA and keratins). Their putative roles in activated sludges and their association with targeted cations are proposed.
Physical activity and its correlates in treatment-seeking obese patients with binge eating disorder.

Objective: This study examined the physical activity levels reported by obese individuals with binge eating disorder (BED), as well as the relationships between physical activity and body mass index (BMI), features of eating disorders, and associated psychological variables. Method: A series of 166 obese treatment-seeking adults (121 women and 45 men) with BED were administered structured diagnostic interviews and self-report questionnaires. Results: This clinical group was found to be extremely sedentary. Self-reported physical activity levels, measured by the Paffenbarger Physical Activity Questionnaire, were comparable with those reported by obese samples with or without binge eating in other studies, but were considerably lower than those reported by a community sample. Lifestyle physical activity (e.g., amounts of walking and stair climbing) and sports and recreational physical activity were unrelated to most clinical characteristics. BMI was significantly, albeit weakly, associated with reported sports and recreational activities in women, but not in men. Conclusion: Our findings highlight the degree to which obese patients with BED are inactive. Physical activity was largely uncorrelated with measures of eating disorder and psychological functioning in both men and women but was significantly, but weakly, correlated with BMI in women. Additional research is needed to determine the clinical value of physical activity for this patient group. © 2006 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 2006
Correlation between von Willebrand factor levels and early graft function in clinical liver transplantation

Cold preservation/reperfusion leads to sinusoidal endothelial cell (SEC) activation and damage in nearly every liver transplantation; the extent of these changes influences early graft function. Upon reperfusion, activated SEC show increased expression of adhesion molecules, including von Willebrand factor (vWF) which is released into the circulation. This study was designed to evaluate the levels of vWF measured in the caval effluent and correlate these findings with known markers of SEC damage and early graft function. Data were obtained from 35 patients undergoing orthotopic liver transplantation (LTx). Two samples were taken from each patient for measurement of vWF: a) from the portal vein immediately prior to reperfusion; and b) from the first 50 ml of the caval effluent. Commercial assays were used to measure vWF, as well as hyaluronic acid (HA), thrombomodulin (TM), IL-1 beta, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-alpha. Patients were divided into two groups based on early graft function. Poor early graft function (PEGF) was defined as a peak aspartate transaminase (AST) or alanine transaminase (ALT) level > 2500 U/L during the first three postoperative days (POD) and a prothrombin time (PT) > 16 s on POD 2 (n = 8). The remaining 27 patients had good early graft function (GEGF). In patients with GEGF, vWF levels dropped significantly between the two time points. This change was not observed in those with PEGF. A positive linear correlation was observed in the PEGF group between vWF and HA and IL-6. The different pattern of change in vWF between the two groups, as well as the positive correlation between HA, IL-6 and vWF in PEGF, suggest that vWF may be a useful marker of early graft function.
Opioid inhibited cAMP in mouse spinal cord and striatum

Abstract In the present studies the regulation of cAMP by the opioid peptide DADLE was examined in mouse striatum and spinal cord. For comparison, DADLE inhibition of cAMP was examined in the rat striatum. In all three tissue preparations (mouse and rat striatum and mouse spinal cord) DADLE inhibited cAMP in a dose-dependent manner. Mouse and rat striatum were equally sensitive to DADLE inhibition of cAMP, while mouse cord was less sensitive. Naloxone reversed the effect of DADLE in the rat striatum. Conversely, the DADLE effect was not naloxone reversible in the mouse striatum and spinal cord. In addition, naloxone by itself reduced basal cAMP dose-dependently in the mouse striatum. Chronic in vivo naltrexone treatment increased the in vitro potency of DADLE to inhibit cAMP in the rat striatum. However, naltrexone treatment did not increase sensitivity to DADLE in the mouse striatum and mouse spinal cord. Overall, opioid effects on cAMP in mouse striatum and spinal cord differ from that measured in rat striatum.
Use of Phosphoric and Sulphuric Acids in Hydrocarbon Electrode Investigations

DURING an examination of hydrocarbon electrodes, evidence was obtained which confirms that analytical reagent grade phosphoric and sulphuric acids contain an oxidizable impurity. The cell and procedures used will be described elsewhere1. In Fig. 1 is shown a plot of potential versus log apparent current density for platinized platinum immersed in nitrogen-stirred unpre-electrolysed 5MH3PO4 at 80° C (inverted triangles). Prior to these measurements the system had not been in contact with a hydrocarbon or any other oxidizable material. The slope of the linear part of the curve is 143 mV. After an anodic pre-electrolysis (60 h at an anodic current density of 62 m.amp/cm2), the Tafel behaviour was no longer observed with nitrogen stirring, and a limiting current was reached (triangles, Fig. 1). When the purified acid was stirred with ebhylene at 80° C, the polarization curve obtained (circles, Fig. 1) was identical with that obtained with nitrogen stirring of the unpre-electrolysed acid. Similar data obtained with 3N H2SO4 are shown in Fig. 2. The slope of the linear parts of the curves in this case is 183 mV.
Scaling of Nusselt Number for Digitized Heat Transfer at All Axial Distances

The heat generation rates of modern electronic systems have increased to a point where conventional forms of thermal management are no longer sufficient. In this paper, Digitized Heat Transfer (DHT) is examined as one of the proposed solutions for high heat flux thermal management. Nusselt number is used to quantify the heat transfer capabilities of the flow while Re, Pr, x/H, and droplet aspect ratio are identified as the relevant nondimensional parameters that influence the shape and magnitude of Nu throughout a heated channel. With the intention of providing a single curve to represent the heat transfer in any digitized flow, a scaling constant, f2, for Nu at axial distances greater than one circulation length is found. This scaling is combined with a previously identified scaling constant for the first circulation length using an inverse tangent weighting function. The two different scalings are applied to the Nu curve for heat transfer to a digitized flow and the result is a single curve that can approximately predict Nu at any axial position if the flow parameters are known. From the fitting functions identified, it is found that extremely long droplets will exhibit higher steady state Nu that is at least three times greater than the Nu value of the equivalent continuous flow.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Peripheral administration of D-cycloserine rescues memory consolidation following bacterial endotoxin exposure.

Abstract In the current study, the partial NMDA receptor agonist d -cycloserine (DCS) rescued memory consolidation following systemic bacterial endotoxin exposure. DCS failed, however, to restore hippocampal BDNF mRNA levels that were diminished following a systemic administration of LPS, and did not alter NR1 or NR2C NMDA receptor subunit expression. These results extend prior research into the role of DCS in neural-immune interactions, and indicate that the detrimental effects of peripheral LPS administration on consolidation of contextual fear memory may be ameliorated with DCS treatment, though the mechanisms underlying these effects are currently unclear.
Cloning and characterization of an endogenous COS-7 cell thromboxane A2 receptor

A cDNA for a thromboxane A2 (TXA2) receptor was cloned from an SV40 transformed African Green Monkey kidney cell line (COS-7). The sequence is 98% homologous with the isoform of the human TXA2 receptor and has agonist and antagonist ligand binding characteristics that are not significantly different from the human receptor. Stimulation of the COS-7 cells with the TXA2 receptor agonist, ONO 11113 resulted in a significant increase in cAMP formation that was blocked by a receptor antagonist. The results raise the question of the utility of the COS-7 cell line for studies of cloned and expressed TXA2 receptor signalling mechanisms.
Effects of salinity on germination, growth and yield of cowpea

Adequate information on salt tolerance is lacking for cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.), a crop grown under both dryland and irrigated conditions. A two-year field plot study was conducted to determine the responses of both the vegetative and dry seed yield of cowpea to a range of soil salinities. Four salinity levels were imposed each year on a Pachappa fine sandy loam (mixed, thermic, Mollic Haploxeralf). Vegetative growth, dry seed yield, and several components of seed yield were measured. Vegetative yield was decreased more by increasing soil salinity than was dry seed yield. Vegetative growth was reduced 9.0% for each unit increase in electrical conductivity of the soil saturation extract beyond a threshold value of 1.6 dS/m. Dry seed yield was reduced 12% for each unit increase beyond 4.9 dS/m. Fewer pods per plant accounted for nearly all of the seed yield reduction associated with increasing salinity levels. Germination was significantly reduced when electrical conductivity in sand cultures exceeded 12.0 dS/m.
Determination of transcription factor isoelectric pointby two-dimensional native isoelectric focusing and electrophoretic mobility shift analysis

A rapid, sensitive, and inexpensive assay is described for the determination of isoelectric points of native transcription factors derived from cell nuclei. This assay depends on a transcription factors' ability to bind DNA with high specificity and obviates the need for specific antisera or additional detection methods in identifying a particular protein following isoelectric focusing. This method has been applied to two ubiquitous proteins, the octamer transcription factor, Oct-1, and the multisubunit CCAAT box factor, NF-Y. Isoelectric points have been determined under native conditions using conventional isoelectric focusing in the first dimension, followed by binding to a specific oligonucleotide DNA probe, and separation of specific DNA/protein complexes from unbound DNA in the second dimension using native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Oct-1 from HeLa cell nuclei was shown to have a pI of 9.6, while NF-Y was shown to have a pI of 4.5. This method is applicable to any transcription factor which binds DNA specifically and may be used to identify changes in surface charge characteristics which occur as a result of alternative splicing events and/or following transcription factor post-translational modification(s).
The contribution of social support and social strain to depressive symptoms in African American, Native American, and European American women

Positive and negative aspects of social relations and their association with depressive symptoms were examined for a sample of Native American, African American and European American women (N = 249). Support was associated with lower depressive symptoms, whereas strain was associated with higher depressive symptoms. Further, European American women were advantaged only by high levels of support compared to the women of color; at moderate and low levels of support, European American women reported Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES-D) scores that were similar to or higher than women in other ethnic groups. Results indicate that links between supportive and negative relationship dimensions to depressive symptoms previously tested using only European American samples can be extended to ethnically diverse samples, but there are also important between-group differences.