cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract P3-04-06: A Functional Investigation of MAL: A Frequently Hypermethylated Gene Marker in Breast Cancer

Hypermethylation of CpG islands in the promoter region of tumor suppressor genes is a common event in cancer, and is an important mechanism in inactivating tumor suppressor gene function in breast cancer. Computational searches of existing large databases for genes underexpressed in multiple cancers, combined with CpG island analysis of those genes, identified a novel potential methylation marker gene in breast cancer called MAL (Maturation-Associated protein for T-Lymphocyte). MAL encodes a 17kD protein that is found in mature T-cells and participates in T-cell differentiation and T-cell receptor signaling. Recent studies have reported gene promoter hypermethylation of MAL in breast tumors and breast cancer cell lines. Furthermore, MAL inactivation has been shown to be predictive of benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy. We proposed that alteration of MAL expression has functional implications in breast cancer. In addition, we proposed that MAL has the potential to serve as a methylation marker for early detection of breast cancer. MAL gene methylation as assessed in breast cancer cell lines and primary tumors by quantitative multiplex methylation specific PCR (QM-MSP) showed that it is frequently methylated in cell lines (40/48; 83%), in primary tumors (11/22; 50%) and in distant metastasis (16/32; 50%), but not in normal breast tissues or human mammary epithelial cells (HMECs). The high frequency of MAL methylation was common to all of the subtypes of breast cancer cells tested (Basal A, Basal B, and Luminal). Q-RT-PCR analysis of MAL expression and QM-MSP analysis of MAL methylation showed that 71% (20/28) of breast cancer cell lines show an inverse correlation between methylation and mRNA expression. This suggests that epigenetic alteration is the major mechanism of silencing since pharmacologic intervention with demethylating agents and histone deacetylase inhibitors resulted in re-expression of MAL in the breast cancer cell lines tested. MAL methylation is being assessed in a panel of 150 primary tumor samples with corresponding clinical data such as histological subtype, tumor grade and tumor specific survival. This will allow for correlations to be made between MAL methylation status and survival data etc. to see if MAL can serve as a predictive marker for breast cancer. This analysis will be useful in further validating MAL as a DNA methylation marker for breast cancer detection in tissue samples. The function of MAL is being deciphered at both the biological and biochemical level by performing overexpression and knockdown studies in breast cells using already constructed expression vectors. The characterization and validation of MAL, a lipid raft protein, as a potential DNA methylation marker in breast cancer could provide a valuable early detection tool for breast cancer. Citation Information: Cancer Res 2010;70(24 Suppl):Abstract nr P3-04-06.
Dipole source localization by mottled sculpin. III. Orientation after site-specific, unilateral denervation of the lateral line system.

To test the hypothesis that spatial excitation patterns along the lateral-line system underlie source localization, we videotaped the orientation behavior of blinded mottled sculpin in response to a small dipole source (50-Hz vibrating sphere) before and after unilateral denervation of the lateral line system on different body regions (head, trunk and head + trunk). Approach pathways were qualitatively similar to those followed by normal intact animals. Abnormal behavior (turning in circles) was not observed. However, the frequency with which fish placed their intact side facing the source increased by 12–89%, depending on the denervation site. The angular accuracy of orientation decreased by 20° to 60° (100% to 370% change) depending on source location and region of lateral line denervated. Deficits tended to be site-specific. For example, unilaterally denervating lateral-line organs on the head resulted in less accurate orienting responses when the source was located on the denervated side of the head, but not on the opposite side of the head or on either side of the trunk. Site-specific deficits and the absence of abnormal approach pathways argue that animals are relying on a point-by-point spatial representation of source location along the sensory surface rather than computations based on bilateral comparisons.
Microstructural and 29Si MAS NMR spectroscopic evaluations of alkali cationic effects on fly ash activation

Abstract The influence of alkali cation (M = Na or K) on the geopolymerization of fly ash is evaluated. NaOH, KOH (4 M and 8 M), or Na/K silicates (SiO2/M2O = 2.0) are used as the activators. Na-activated systems demonstrate higher strengths than the K-based ones after thermal activation, with the 8 M NaOH activation being the most efficient. The total pore volume fractions are comparable between the pastes activated using similar Na- or K-based activators, but the volume of pores of size >0.2 μm is higher for the K-based systems, attributed to the reduced dissociation efficiency, faster condensation and reduced time for rearrangement. Compressive strength is shown to be closely related to the volume pores of size >0.2 μm. The presence of soluble silicates from the activator significantly influences the pore size distribution. 29Si MAS NMR spectroscopy reveals an increase in gel structural order and higher amounts of Si-rich units as the activator alkalinity increases, and a higher degree of disorder for the K-based systems.
Experimentally determined flutter from two- and three-bladed model bearingless rotors in hover

A series of experiments was performed on a 1.8-m-diam model rotor in hover for the principal purpose of investigating the lead-lag stability of isolated bearingless rotors. Incidental to those tests, at least three types of pitch-flap flutter were encountered. Type 1 flutter occurred approximately at the second flap-mode frequency on both two-and three-bladed rotors for both small and large pitch angles and appeared to be a classic pitch-flap flutter. Type 2 flutter showed mostly torsional motion and was seen on both two- and three-bladed rotors. Type 3 flutter was a regressing flap flutter that occurred for only the three-bladed rotor configurations and appears to be a wake excited flutter. Although flutter occurred on a number of different configurations, no rotor parameters were identified that were clearly stabilizing or destabilizing.
Hyperglycemia induces embryopathy, even in the absence of systemic maternal diabetes: An in vivo test of the fuel mediated teratogenesis hypothesis

Embryonic exposure to excess circulating fuels is proposed to underlie diabetic embryopathy. To isolate the effects of hyperglycemia from the many systemic anomalies of diabetes, we infused 4 mg/min glucose into the left uterine artery of non-diabetic pregnant rats on gestation days (GD) 7–9. Right-sided embryos and dams exhibited no glucose elevation. Embryos were assessed on GD13, comparing the left versus right uterine horns. Hyperglycemic exposure increased rates of embryopathy, resorptions, and worsened embryopathy severity. By contrast, saline infusion did not affect any of these parameters. To assess for possible embryopathy susceptibility bias between uterine horns, separate dams were given retinoic acid (25 mg/kg, a mildly embryopathic dose) systemically on GD7.5. The resultant embryopathy rates were equivalent between uterine horns. We conclude that hyperglycemia, even in the absence of systemic maternal diabetes, is sufficient to produce in vivo embryopathy during organogenesis.
Synthesis and structural properties of porphyrin analogues of bacteriochlorophyll c

Abstract The self-assembling photosynthetic pigment bacteriochlorophyll c contains α-hydroxyethyl and keto groups on opposite sides of the macrocycle. A porphyrin has been synthesized that contains a 3-hydroxymethyl group and a 15-ethoxycarbonyl group ( ZnP2-OH ). X-ray analysis of ZnP2-OH and the related porphyrin containing 5-hydroxymethyl and 15-ethoxycarbonyl groups ( ZnP1-OH ) in each case revealed infinite coordination polymers wherein the zinc porphyrins are bound by Zn–O coordination and are cofacially offset in a staircase architecture.
An Optimization Strategy for Maximizing Coordinate Measuring Machine Productivity, Part 2: Problem Formulation, Solution, and Experimental Results

In this, the second of two papers focused on optimizing CMM productivity, a strategy is presented for obtaining operating speeds that maximize CMM throughput. The strategy involves posing the objective and constraints in terms of a nonlinear programming problem. The objective is to minimize measuring time, and constraints are on measurement quality, available motor power and other machine specific characteristics. Solutions to various measurement scenarios are given, computed with a generalized conjugate gradient method that uses a golden section acceptable search method. Also, a sensitivity study is presented that utilizes the optimization strategy to determine how change to a CMM's design will affect overall productivity. In the final section, experimental results utilizing the optimally computed trajectories for both single axis and multiple axis motion are given. In addition, an example is presented to demonstrate the implementation of the optimization strategy in an actual measuring application. In the example, a connecting-rod is measured at three speeds : the machine's default speed, a speed constrained by available motor power, and the optimized speed (constrained additionally by measurement quality). The experiment demonstrates a 27 percent reduction in time for the optimized speed compared to the default speed using the Bartlett test for comparing variances in the dimensional data obtained.
Excavating silences and tensions of agency|passivity in science education reform

I reflect on studies by Rodriguez and Carlone, Haun-Frank, and Kimmel to emphasize the ways in which they excavate silences in the science education literature related to linguistic and cultural diversity and situating the problem of reform in teachers rather than contextual factors, such as traditional schooling discourses and forces that serve to marginalize science. I propose that the current push for top-down reform and accountability diminishes opportunities for receptivity, learning with and from students in order to transform teachers’ practices and promote equity in science education. I discuss tensions of agency and passivity in science education reform and argue that attention to authentic caring constitutes another silence in the science education literature. I conclude that the current policy context positions teachers and science education researchers as tempered radicals struggling against opp(reg)ressive reforms and that there is a need for more studies to excavate these and other silences.
Structure of the glycoprotein gene in rabies virus

Rabies virus, a rhabdovirus, has a single (non-segmented) negative-strand RNA genome which is transcribed on infection to produce five polyadenylated complementary monocistronic mRNA species. Each of the virus-specific mRNAs representing a structural gene of the rabies virus genome1 codes for a virion structural protein which corresponds in size to the apparent coding capacity of its mRNA2,3. The glycoprotein gene codes for a membrane-associated molecule which forms spike-like projections on the surface of mature rabies virions and is responsible for the induction and binding of virus-neutralizing antibodies to the virus4–6. To define the antigenic and immunogenic properties of rabies virus glycoprotein, we have cloned a cDNA copy of its mRNA sequence into pBR322 (ref. 7). Here we describe the characterization of the cDNA sequence, which has allowed us to predict several features of the glycoprotein from the deduced amino acid sequence.
A system of concentrated and distributed heat sources over a translationally and rotationally moving cylinder

Abstract This paper presents an analysis of the heat conduction in a translationally and rotationally moving cylinder under the influence of a system of concentrated and distributed heat sources over the cylindrical surface. Steady, transient and unsteady states are considered. Physically, this problem represents the machining of a cylinder by a set of tools. Two simpler cases are also investigated: A system of moving ring sources and a moving generatrix-band source.
Periventricular noradrenergic systems are critical for angiotensin-induced drinking and blood pressure responses

Deficits in experimentally induced drinking and pressor responses after administration of 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) into the lateral cerebral ventricle (LCV) have been reported. Questions have arisen, however, as to whether these effects are due to non-specific actions of the neurotoxin and, if specific, whether the depletion of dopamine (DA) or of norepinephrine (NE) is the critical factor for producing the impairments. In the present report methods to deplete brain catecholamine (CA) differentially were employed in order to test the hypothesis that central 6-OHDA injections act on brain CA substrates per se to produce behavioral and physiological response deficits to angiotensin II (ANG II) challenges. The findings support the interpretation that forebrain dopamine is essential for the mediation of sensorimotor integration involved in response to acute homeostatic stressors. In addition, the outcome identifies an important role for forebrain noradrenergic systems in the mediation of ANG II-elicited drinking and blood pressure responses.
Correlates of suicide ideation in a college population

Two surveys assessing attitudes toward, beliefs about and personal experience with suicide were conducted. In survey I, 473 undergraduates participated, and 485 in Survey II. Rates of suicide attempt or threat were low (4% in Survey I, 8% in Survey II) compared to those reported in other college studies. Seriousness of participatns' own suicide ideation/behavior was related to the likelihood that they had been in contact with another suicidal person, usually a friend. Students whose own suicide ideation/behavior was serious were more accepting of suicide than were students whose own suicide ideation/behavior was transitory or non-existent. Results are compared with findings from other college studies and from clinical literature on children and adolescents. Implications for clinicians serving college students are discussed.
Quantum Markov chains

A new approach to quantum Markov chains is presented. We first define a transition operation matrix (TOM) as a matrix whose entries are completely positive maps whose column sums form a quantum operation. A quantum Markov chain is defined to be a pair (G,E) where G is a directed graph and E=[Eij] is a TOM whose entry Eij labels the edge from vertex j to vertex i. We think of the vertices of G as sites that a quantum system can occupy and Eij is the transition operation from site j to site i in one time step. The discrete dynamics of the system is obtained by iterating the TOM E. We next consider a special type of TOM called a transition effect matrix. In this case, there are two types of dynamics, a state dynamics and an operator dynamics. Although these two types are not identical, they are statistically equivalent. We next give examples that illustrate various properties of quantum Markov chains. We conclude by showing that our formalism generalizes the usual framework for quantum random walks.
Plasma bubbles near the dawn terminator in the topside ionosphere

Abstract The physical properties of plasma bubbles in the topside ionosphere near the dawn terminator are investigated. It is assumed that the bubbles result from either a Rayleigh-Taylor or an E × B instability on the bottom side of the F-layer. While the E-region is in darkness, the top and bottomsides of the ionosphere are electrically decoupled and the motion of bubbles can be described by non-linear, two-dimensional theory. After sunrise, electric fields within the bubbles discharge through the conducting lower ionosphere. The upward drift of the bubbles is effectively halted. To achieve a dayside state of diffusive equilibrium the bubbles slowly begin to collapse from the bottom.
Possibility of biases in the estimation of earthquake recurrence and seismic hazard from geologic data

Abstract Aseismic deformation is an integral part of the earthquake process and may lead to systematic biases in the estimation of earthquake size, recurrence, and attendant strong ground motions in seismic hazard analyses founded on the geologic description of the locations, lengths, and slip rates of active faults. Observations are reviewed and presented to suggest that large earthquakes systematically rupture to increasingly greater depths below the seismogenic layer and that the portion of slip on faults accommodated by aseismic processes may be inversely related to the length of rupture expected to occur on them. If so, the expected seismic moment per unit area of earthquakes on mapped faults may be systematically overestimated as a function of rupture length when derived from regressions of seismic moment and aftershock area, and estimates of seismic moment rate derived from geologic measures of fault offset might be systematically overestimated as an inverse function of the length of rupture expected to recur on a fault.
Correlation between coronary perfusion pressure and quantitative ECG waveform measures during resuscitation of prolonged ventricular fibrillation

Abstract Introduction The ventricular fibrillation (VF) waveform is dynamic and predicts defibrillation success. Quantitative waveform measures (QWMs) quantify these changes. Coronary perfusion pressure (CPP), a surrogate for myocardial perfusion, also predicts defibrillation success. The relationship between QWM and CPP has been preliminarily explored. We sought to further delineate this relationship in our porcine model and to determine if it is different between animals with/without ROSC (return of spontaneous circulation). Hypothesis A relationship exists between QWM and CPP that is different between animals with/without ROSC. Methods Utilizing a prior experiment in our porcine model of prolonged out-of-hospital VF cardiac arrest, we calculated mean CPP, cumulative dose CPP, and percent recovery of three QWM during resuscitation before the first defibrillation: amplitude spectrum area (AMSA), median slope (MS), and logarithm of the absolute correlations (LAC). A random effects linear regression model with an interaction term CPP*ROSC investigated the association between CPP and percent recovery QWM and how this relationship changes with/without ROSC. Results For 12 animals, CPP and QWM measures (except LAC) improved during resuscitation. A linear relationship existed between CPP and percent recovery AMSA (coefficient 0.27; 95%CI 0.23, 0.31; p p p p Conclusions There is a linear relationship between QWM and CPP during chest compressions in our porcine cardiac arrest model that is different between animals with/without ROSC.
Marine fungi: the occurrence of ergosterol and choline

Abstract Ergosterol and choline were identified in several marine Ascomycetes and Fungi Imperfecti.
A note on judgment and insight in psychiatric disability

Reports which include unsupported statements about insight and judgment may delay, and render more difficult, the ultimate decision as to entitlement of patients to benefits under various programs. Such statements should be associated with clinical data which adequately support the statement. Insight usually has very little bearing on the clinical evidence of loss of function resulting from psychiatric illness. Its use may be justified in those few instances where it has a direct bearing on prognosis. Judgment as a concept in the evaluation of psychiatric illness should be specifically restricted to that area of judgment which is associated with the patient's usual and customary level of adjustment in a work situation. This evaluation of judgment as a general concept is based upon many variable and complex factors which do not readily lend themselves to routine adjudication of judgment in the ordinary psychiatric evaluation. The psychiatrist might be more effective in his reporting if he were to avoid generalizing about insight and judgment where insufficient data prevents the forming of a definite opinion.
Teleneurocritical Care and Telestroke

Telestroke and teleneurologic intensive care units (teleneuro-ICUs) optimize the diagnosis and treatment of neurologic emergencies. Establishment of a telestroke or teleneuro-ICU program relies on investment in experienced stroke and neurocritical care personnel as well as advanced telecommunications technologies. Telemanagement of neurologic emergencies can be standardized to improve outcomes, but it is essential to have a relationship with a tertiary care facility that can use endovascular, neurosurgical, and neurocritical care advanced therapies after stabilization. The next stage in telestroke/teleneuro-ICU management involves the use of mobile stroke units to shorten the time to treatment in neurocritically ill patients.
548 RESPONSE OF SERUM TOTAL CHOLESTEROL AND HIGH DENSITY LIPOPROTEIN (HDL) LEVELS IK PREMATURE INFANTS TO VARIATIONS IN DIETARY LEVELS OF POLYUNSATURATED FATTY ACIDS (PUFA)

548 RESPONSE OF SERUM TOTAL CHOLESTEROL AND HIGH DENSITY LIPOPROTEIN (HDL) LEVELS IK PREMATURE INFANTS TO VARIATIONS IN DIETARY LEVELS OF POLYUNSATURATED FATTY ACIDS (PUFA)
Mambu phone home

Mambu: A Melanesian millennium, by Kenelm Burridge. Princeton University Press, Princeton NJ, 1995 [reprinting of original 1960 edition with new preface]. 296pp., appendices, index. ISBN 0–691–00166–9 (paperback).
Constant-current, biphasic titrating stimulator for brain self-stimulation

Abstract The design of an inexpensive electrical stimulator is described that produces constant-current, biphasic pulse trains suitable for brain self-stimulation research. This can be programmed to increase or decrease the current amplitude in equal steps. This current titration apparatus was developed to measure changes in the reinforcement threshold for brain self-stimulation after experimental manipulations such as drug administration. It is constructed of integrated circuit (IC) chips, and is interfaced with a minicomputer providing for on line data collection and storage.
A note on addition chains

Abstract New proofs are given for certain cases of the Scholz-Brauer problem in addition chains.
P450ome of the white rot fungus Phanerochaete chrysosporium: structure, evolution and regulation of expression of genomic P450 clusters

The model white rot fungus Phanerochaete chrysosporium has the extraordinary ability to degrade (to CO(2)) lignin and detoxify a variety of chemical pollutants. Whole genome sequencing of this fungus has revealed the presence of the largest P450ome in fungi comprising approx. 150 P450 genes, most of which have unknown function. On the basis of our genome-wide structural and evolutionary analysis, these P450 genes could be classified into 12 families and 23 subfamilies and under 11 fungal P450 clans. The analysis further revealed an extensive gene clustering with a total of 16 P450 clusters constituted of up to 11 members per cluster. In particular, evidence and role of gene duplications and horizontal gene transfer in the evolution of these P450 clusters have been discussed using two of the P450 families [CYP63 and CYP505 (where CYP is cytochrome P450)] as examples. In addition, the observed differential transcriptional induction of the clustered members of the CYP63 gene family, in response to different xenobiotic chemicals and carbon sources, indicated functional divergence within the P450 clusters, of this basidiomycete fungus.
Why Adolescents Don't Disclose Incidents of Bullying and Harassment

While bullying among students is a recalcitrant problem in U.S. schools, research indicates that many students do not disclose bullying they experience or witness despite repeated efforts on the part of adults. The preponderance of research tends to neither include the perceptions of students nor provide understanding about their reluctance to tell or rely on adults for intervention. This qualitative study explored the perspectives of adolescents on their reasons for not reporting incidents or seeking help with bullying. Grounded theory was utilized for data analysis and for detection of patterns in the data. Results revealed several themes: (a) the ubiquitous nature of bullying, (b) a sense of helplessness, (c) concerns over inappropriate adult action, (d) self-reliance, (e) shame, (f) parental omniscience, and (g) a different definition of bullying than adults use. Conclusions reflect the need to understand bullying from the multiple perspectives of adolescents to minimize it and encourage reporting.
Note on Gill's solution for free convection in a vertical enclosure

This paper develops an alternative approach to evaluating the arbitrary constants found in Gill's solution for the boundary-layer free-convection regime in a vertical rectangular enclosure. The new method consists of calculating the net upward flow of energy through the enclosure and setting it equal to zero near the top and bottom boundaries of the cavity. The present method takes into account the impermeable and adiabatic properties of the horizontal end walls. The overall Nusselt number derived on this new basis is shown to agree well with available experimental and numerical heat-transfer correlations.
Hydrophobic-hydrophilic composite membranes for the pervaporation of benzene-ethanol mixtures

Abstract Composite membranes of polystyrene (PS) together with ahydrophilic polymer were prepared via the concentrated emulsion polymerization method developed in this laboratory. In the concentrated emulsion precursor, styrene containing some styrene-butadiene-styrene three block copolymer (SBS) constituted the dispersed phase and a solution of a hydrophilic monomer in water the continuous phase. The polymerized systems were transformed in membranes by hot pressing at 150°C. The mechanical properties of the membranes were affected by the amount of SBS in the dispersed phase and by the nature of the hydrophilic monomer of the continuous phase. SBS improved in a major way the mechanical properties of the membrane. The membranes were subjected to the sorption and pervaporation of benzene-ethanol mixtures. They exhibited preferential sorption toward benzene over the entire benzene concentration range, the swelling ratio increasing with increasing benzene concentration and the sorption selectivity decreasing. The prepared membranes had permeation rates as large as 1040 g/m 2 h and separation factors as large as 25 for the benzene-ethanol mixtures.
The next fifty years of Japan-US economic relations

Abstract Even though in economic history, we cannot simply project from the past, the patterns of future evolution are best evaluated from a sophisticated understanding of where the two countries are today. We should not expect either the continuation of American generosity or Japanese subservience. For now there is, sad to say, a mean spirit in public life. Remembrances of the past injustices will feed it, sometimes in a self-destructive manner. This is demonstrated here in the current unwillingness in Japan to learn from the US experience in resolving the S&L crisis.
An Assessment of Epilepsy Patients' Knowledge of Their Disorder

Summary: Purpose: Patient education is an effective component of comprehensive care. Studies assessing patient's knowledge of their epilepsy are scarce. We report the first objective study evaluating knowledge of epilepsy patients referred to an American tertiary care center. Methods: Two hundred twenty epilepsy patients referred to an epilepsy center completed a knowledge questionnaire. The questionnaire included topics related to safety, compliance, and legal issues of driving and employment. Questionnaire scores were correlated with demographics, number of years with epilepsy, and educational background. Results: Of 220 patients, 175 were included in study analysis. Thirteen percent (n = 28) were excluded because of the diagnosis of nonepileptic seizures, and 8% (n = 17) were excluded because of having a diagnosis other than epilepsy. The average age and number of years with epilepsy was 34.7 ± 13 and 14.4 ± 13.1, respectively. Neither age (r= 0.20, p 0.01), number of years with epilepsy (r= 0.09, p = 0.2), nor years of education (r= 0.34, p 0.01) correlated with questionnaire scores. Thirty percent believed that epilepsy is a mental disorder or contagious. Forty-one percent believed it is appropriate to place an object in a patient's mouth during a seizure to prevent injury. Two of the lowest scores, 13.6% and 47.5%, pertained to the legal issues of driving and employment, respectively. Conclusions: Patients with epilepsy are not knowledgeable about their disorder. This is true regardless of age, educational background, or number of years with epilepsy. There is a need for educational intervention in this population, particularly related to injury prevention and the legalities of driving and employment.
Sports announcer talk: Syntactic aspects of register variation.

The language of sports casting is analyzed in terms of register variation. First the register is “located” by successive approximations to a characterization of its occasions of use, then selected syntactic characteristics are identified: simplification (deletion of copula and sentence initial nominals), inversions, heavy modifiers, result expressions (for + noun, to + verb), routines (e.g., giving the “count”). Some of these are discussed in relation to possible communicative functions, but all are seen as register markers. Sports announcer talk (SAT) is described as a promising topic for comparative, historical, and acquisitional studies of register variation. (Register, mass media, performance; American English, Japanese.)
Let’s (Not) Talk about Sex: The Gender of Sexual Discourse

Although much attention is given to women’s sexuality, sex is often an uncomfortable or avoided topic. There are taboos about women openly discussing their own sexual behavior, sexual desire, or sexual problems in large part because sex talk is masculinized. Based on in-depth interviews with a diverse group of ninety-five women aged 20–68, we examine gendered discourses about sexuality. We find that most women are uncomfortable talking about sex in general and fear judgment for communicating desire or talking about sexual behavior. Yet, when women construct sex-related conversations in a feminine way, such as a means of supporting a friend or emotional bonding, they are more open to sex talk. Furthermore, we see women’s talk or avoidance of sex talk as compliant with interaction norms and gendered face-saving behavior for themselves and others.
Material-Appropriate Processing: Implications for Remediating Recall Deficits in Students with Learning Disabilities

Research with nondisabled learners has shown that the effectiveness of encoding activities depends on the type of material to which such activities are applied. We review the material-appropriate processing approach (McDaniel & Einstein, 1989) and examine the extent to which this framework might be used to help anticipate and explain the mnemonic effects of elaborative encoding tasks and study adjuncts for less able learners. For less able learners, elaborative tasks that require processing that is also invited by the material seem to enhance recall, but elaborative tasks that require processing not invited by the material produce little or no enhancement in recall. Apparently, less able learners are not capable of spontaneously exploiting the affordances of the to-be-learned material without appropriate study instructions or adjuncts. Further, unlike nondisabled learners, less able learners do not seem to benefit from study instructions that require types of processing not afforded by the material.
The impact of chronic hepatitis C on resource utilisation and in‐patient mortality for Medicare beneficiaries between 2005 and 2010

Summary Background As baby boomers age, chronic hepatitis C (CHC) will become increasingly important in Medicare eligible group. Aim To evaluate trends in Medicare resource utilisation for CHC. Methods We analysed the Medicare in-patient and out-patient data from 2005 to 2010. For each patient, all claims with CHC as a principal diagnosis were added up and yearly CHC-related spending was calculated. Results A total of 48 880 out-patient claims for 21 655 CHC patients and 4884 hospital admission claims for 3092 patients were included. The number of in-patient (1.5–1.6/year) or out-patient (2.2–2.3/year) visits per patient did not change over time, nor did the demographic characteristics of the CHC population. The majority of this population was eligible for Medicare based on disability and the average number of diagnoses per in-patient claim (from 8.11 in 2005 to 8.60 in 2010) and per out-patient claim (from 2.18 in 2005 to 2.71 in 2010) increased (both P < 0.0001). The average total yearly spending per patient increased in the out-patient setting from $488 in 2005 to $584 in 2010 (P = 0.0132) and did not change in the in-patient setting (from $22 245 in 2005 to $23 383 in 2010, P = 0.14). In the multivariate analysis, the number of diagnoses and conditions per claim and the number of in-patient or out-patient procedures per year were the important independent predictors of increased resource utilisation. Conclusions Most Medicare beneficiaries with chronic hepatitis C who sought in-patient or out-patient care in 2005–2010 had received Medicare for disability. Although the total resource utilisation did not change, the proportion of patient's responsibility increased.
The effect of refrigeration on the osmolality and pH of nonpreserved artificial tears containing carboxymethylcellulose

INTRODUCTION Nonpreserved artificial tears (NPAT) are a recommended treatment for dry eye. The manufacturers' instructions state to discard the container after initial opening and use. Some clinicians advocate the use and storage of NPAT in a zip-lock bag in a refrigerator for up to 12 h. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether refrigeration of opened NPAT over a 12-h period had any effect on the pH or osmolality. METHODS Forty individual carboxymethylcellulose NPAT samples were used in this study. The initial osmolality and pH of each sample were measured with a vapor pressure osmometer and electronic pH meter. The samples were refrigerated (4 degrees C) in closed zip-lock plastic bags for 12 h. After storage, the pH and osmolality of the samples were measured. The data were statistically analyzed for significant differences using a paired t-test. RESULTS The mean initial pH and osmolality before refrigeration were 6.46 pH units and 304.10 mmol/kg, respectively. After refrigeration, the mean pH was 6.44 units, and mean osmolality was 305.87 mmol/kg. Paired t-tests revealed a nonsignificant difference (p > 0.05) for both pH and osmolality. CONCLUSION Refrigeration of opened carboxymethylcellulose NPAT stored in closed zip-lock plastic bags does not have a significant effect on the osmolality or pH of the solution. Storage of NPAT containing carboxymethylcellulose is an acceptable practice with regards to stability of pH and osmolality.
The Drosophila eve Insulator Homie Promotes eve Expression and Protects the Adjacent Gene from Repression by Polycomb Spreading.

Insulators can block the action of enhancers on promoters and the spreading of repressive chromatin, as well as facilitating specific enhancer-promoter interactions. However, recent studies have called into question whether the activities ascribed to insulators in model transgene assays actually reflect their functions in the genome. The Drosophila even skipped (eve) gene is a Polycomb (Pc) domain with a Pc-group response element (PRE) at one end, flanked by an insulator, an arrangement also seen in other genes. Here, we show that this insulator has three major functions. It blocks the spreading of the eve Pc domain, preventing repression of the adjacent gene, TER94. It prevents activation of TER94 by eve regulatory DNA. It also facilitates normal eve expression. When Homie is deleted in the context of a large transgene that mimics both eve and TER94 regulation, TER94 is repressed. This repression depends on the eve PRE. Ubiquitous TER94 expression is “replaced” by expression in an eve pattern when Homie is deleted, and this effect is reversed when the PRE is also removed. Repression of TER94 is attributable to spreading of the eve Pc domain into the TER94 locus, accompanied by an increase in histone H3 trimethylation at lysine 27. Other PREs can functionally replace the eve PRE, and other insulators can block PRE-dependent repression in this context. The full activity of the eve promoter is also dependent on Homie, and other insulators can promote normal eve enhancer-promoter communication. Our data suggest that this is not due to preventing promoter competition, but is likely the result of the insulator organizing a chromosomal conformation favorable to normal enhancer-promoter interactions. Thus, insulator activities in a native context include enhancer blocking and enhancer-promoter facilitation, as well as preventing the spread of repressive chromatin.
Intestinal Absorption of Water-soluble Vitamins in Rainbow Trout (Onchorhynchus mykiss)

The intestinal uptake of water-soluble vitamins, nicotinamide, riboflavin, biotin and folic acid, was studied in isolated everted intestinal sleeves of the cold-water teleost rainbow trout (Onchorhynchus mykiss). The presence of a carrier-mediated transport mechanism was determined by competitive inhibition and by Michaelis-Menten kinetics. The uptake of riboflavin, biotin or folic acid was not only subject to competitive inhibition but also a saturable function of increasing vitamin concentration in the incubation medium. The kinetic constants of the saturable mechanism were for riboflavin: K(m), 2.32 +/- 0.76 microM; Vmax, 0.26 +/- 0.04 pmol/mg min; for biotin: K(m), 9.70 +/- 3.76 microM; Vmax, 0.31 +/- 0.07 pmol/mg min; and for folic acid: K(m), 32.9 +/- 21.2 microM; Vmax, 3.63 +/- 0.99 pmol/mg min. In contrast, the uptake of nicotinamide was not subject to competitive inhibition and was a linear function of concentration (Kd, 0.140 +/- 0.012 pmol/mg min microM). Folic acid was absorbed more rapidly than and was not inhibited by its derivative, 5-methyl-tetrahydrofolate. Thus, the intestinal uptake of riboflavin, biotin and folic acid is carrier-mediated while that of nicotinamide occurs by simple diffusion. These mechanisms are similar to those found in the channel catfish for the same vitamins, except for folic acid, which is absorbed by diffusion in this warm-water omnivorous species.
The Effect of Histamine on Epidermal Outgrowth: Its Possible Dual Role as an Inhibitor and Stimulator

We have investigated the effect of histamine on pig epidermal cell outgrowths in vitro . Histamine inhibited the epidermal cell outgrowths (and also mitosis). This inhibition was partially counteracted by a specific H 2 antagonist, cimetidine Inhibition was maximal at a histamine concentration of 10 −4 M. and was less at 10 −3 M. These histamine concentrations respectively coincide with the optimal concentrations for accumulating intra-cellular cyclic AMP (via H 2 receptors) and cyclic GMP (via H 1 receptors) in the same pig epidermal slice system. 4-Methyl-histamine, a pure H 2 agonist, which only increased the intracellular cyclic AMP level but not the cyclic GMP level, caused a maximal outgrowth inhibition at 10 −3 M. Attempts to counteract the histamine effects due to cyclic GMP accumulation by various H 1 antagonists (so that 10 −3 M histamine would have caused maximal outgrowth inhibition) were unsuccessful, since the addition of each H 1 antagonist alone strongly inhibited the outgrowth. These data strongly suggest a dual role of histamine through the cyclic nucleotide system; i.e., histamine inhibits epidermal cell growth by elevating the intracellular cyclic AMP level via an H 2 2 receptor, while histamine at high concentrations (10 −3 M) partially counteracts the inhibition by increasing cyclic GMP via an H n receptor.
Optimal design of substrate-mode volume holographic wavelength-division demultiplexers

High diffraction efficiency volume-holograms can still be the state of art to manipulate lightwave and have been playing important roles in optical communication and networking arena. In this paper, we will analyze several passive substrate-mode wavelength-division-multiplexing/demultiplexing (WDM/WDDM) structures based on these holograms. Holograms are analyzed with coupled wave theory as well as some close-form expressions, and comparisons are made among these demultiplexing structures. Normalized parameters are used to summarize the procedure for optimal designs. The generalized parameters are applicable to any optical wavelength window. The input and output coupling of optical signals by volume holograms exhibit asymmetric properties that can strongly affect the performance of the device. Coupling of the demultiplexed signals into one-dimensional linear multi-mode fiber array is analyzed and optimized for minimum power dissipation and loss balance. Based on the analysis and with some trade-offs on several aspects of the performance, a passive 8-channel substrate-mode surface-normal input/output demultiplexer (DMUX) working in the wavelength range of 768 ∼ 864nm is demonstrated. Simulations are compared with experiments.
Chemotaxis of muscle-derived mesenchymal cells to bone inductive proteins of rat

In this investigation we examined the chemotaxis of muscle-derived mesenchymal cells from neonatal rats to partially purified extracts of demineralized bone matrix with osteoinductive properties. Using the modified Boyden chamber assay and muscle-derived mesenchymal cells obtained from neonatal Long-Evans rats, we tested the chemotactic properties of the 4 M guanidine-HCl extract from demineralized rat bone matrix and fractions thereof that were derived from sequential Sepharose CL-6B, TSK-3000 and HPLC-C18 chromatography. We have identified that those fractions exhibiting chemotactic properties were also osteoinductive. Therefore, demineralized bone matrix serves as its own soluble signal and insoluble substratum in the inductive process leading to endochondral bone formationin vivo.
Widespread dermatophyte infections that mimic collagen vascular disease

This article reports the cases of two patients in whom a widespread dermatophyte infection mimicked the cutaneous lesions of their underlying collagen vascular disease. Griseofulvin may be associated with an increased incidence of adverse cutaneous reactions in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. One patient with systemic lupus erythematosus developed erythema multiforme after taking griseofulvin.
Shifts of focus on various aspects of user information problems during interactive information retrieval

The author presents the results of additional analyses of shifts of focus in IR interaction. Results indicate that users and search intermediaries work toward search goals in nonlinear fashion. Twenty interactions between 20 different users and one of four different search intermediaries were examined. Analysis of discourse between the two parties during interactive information retrieval (IR) shows changes in topic occurs, on average, every seven utterances. These twenty interactions included some 9,858 utterances and 1,439 foci. Utterances are defined as any uninterrupted sound, statement, gesture, etc., made by a participant in the discourse dyad. These utterances are segmented by the researcher according to their inentional focus, i.e., the topic on which the conversation between the user and search intermediary focus until the focus changes (i.e., shifts of focus). In all but two of the 20 interactions, the search intermediary initiated a majority of shifts of focus. Six focus categories were observed. These were foci dealing with: documents; evaluation of search results; search strategies; IR system; topic of the search; and information about the user.
Cell proliferation in the Rana catesbeiana auditory medulla over metamorphic development

During metamorphic development, bullfrogs (Rana catesbeiana) undergo substantial morphological, anatomical, and physiological changes as the animals prepare for the transition from a fully-aquatic to a semi-terrestrial existence. Using BrdU incorporation and immunohistochemistry, we quantify changes in cell proliferation in two key auditory brainstem nuclei, the dorsolateral nucleus and the superior olivary nucleus, over the course of larval and early postmetamorphic development. From hatchling through early larval stages, numbers of proliferating cells increase in both nuclei, paralleling the overall increase in total numbers of cells available for labeling. Numbers of proliferating cells in the superior olivary nucleus decrease during the late larval and deaf periods, and significantly increase during metamorphic climax. Proliferating cells in the dorsolateral nucleus increase in number from hatchling to late larval stages, decrease during the deaf period, and increase during climax. In both nuclei, numbers of proliferating cells decrease during the postmetamorphic froglet stage, despite increases in the number of cells available for label. Newly generated cells express either glial- or neural-specific phenotypes beginning between 1 week and 1 month post-BrdU injection, respectively, while some new cells express γ-aminobutyric acid within 2 days of mitosis. Our data show that these auditory nuclei dramatically up-regulate mitosis immediately prior to establishment of a transduction system based on atmospheric hearing. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Neurobiol, 2005
Local Mate Competition and Sex Ratio in the Diploid Worm Dinophilus

Summary The marine archiannelid worm Dinophilus gyrociliatus has a mating system characterized by mostly sib mating; such a system is termed “local mate competition” (LMC) by sex ratio theorists and is known to favor the evolution of highly female biased sex ratios. Dinophilus shows such sex ratios.
Gentisate dioxygenase activity in immobilized cell-free extracts prepared from Salmonella typhimurium

Cell-free extracts of Salmonella typhimurium containing gentisate dioxygenase were immobilized by entrapment in carrageenan and polyacrylamide and adsorption to polyester filters. Carrageenan gels were very porous, and the enzyme was slowly inactivated in polyacrylamide. When adsorbed on polyester the enzyme could be lyophilized and reactivated. Batch reactors charged with the immobilized enzyme converted gentisate to maleylpyruvate with yields of 10–90%.
Nanotechnology for Synthetic High Density Lipoproteins

Atherosclerosis is the disease mechanism responsible for coronary heart disease (CHD), the leading cause of death worldwide. One strategy to combat atherosclerosis is to increase the amount of circulating high-density lipoproteins (HDL), which transport cholesterol from peripheral tissues to the liver for excretion. The process, known as reverse cholesterol transport, is thought to be one of the main reasons for the significant inverse correlation observed between HDL blood levels and the development of CHD. This article highlights the most common strategies for treating atherosclerosis using HDL. We further detail potential treatment opportunities that utilize nanotechnology to increase the amount of HDL in circulation. The synthesis of biomimetic HDL nanostructures that replicate the chemical and physical properties of natural HDL provides novel materials for investigating the structure-function relationships of HDL and for potential new therapeutics to combat CHD.
Are end-of-life patient education materials readable?

Although established guidelines for developing low-literacy patient education materials are available, poorly designed material continue to be disseminated. We evaluated the readability and layout ...