cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
New generation breast cancer cell lines developed from patient-derived xenografts

Breast cancer is a highly heterogeneous disease characterized by multiple histologic and molecular subtypes. While a myriad of breast cancer cell lines have been developed over the past 60 years, estrogen receptor alpha (ER)+ disease and some mutations associated with this subtype remain underrepresented. Here we describe six breast cancer cell lines derived from patient-derived xenografts (PDX) and their general characteristics. Established breast cancer PDX were processed into cell suspensions and placed into standard 2D cell culture; six emerged into long-term passageable cell lines. Cell lines were assessed for protein expression of common luminal, basal, and mesenchymal markers, growth assessed in response to estrogens and endocrine therapies, and RNA-seq and oncogenomics testing performed to compare relative transcript levels and identify putative oncogenic drivers. Three cell lines express ER and two are also progesterone receptor (PR) positive; PAM50 subtyping identified one line as luminal A. One of the ER+PR+ lines harbors a D538G mutation in the gene for ER (ESR1), providing a natural model that contains this endocrine-resistant genotype. The third ER+PR−/low cell line has mucinous features, a rare histologic type of breast cancer. The three other lines are ER− and represent two basal-like and a mixed ductal/lobular breast cancer. The cell lines show varied responses to tamoxifen and fulvestrant, and three were demonstrated to regrow tumors in vivo. RNA sequencing confirms all cell lines are human and epithelial. Targeted oncogenomics testing confirmed the noted ESR1 mutation in addition to other mutations (i.e., PIK3CA, BRCA2, CCND1, NF1, TP53, MYC) and amplifications (i.e., FGFR1, FGFR3) frequently found in breast cancers. These new generation breast cancer cell lines add to the existing repository of breast cancer models, increase the number of ER+ lines, and provide a resource that can be genetically modified for studying several important clinical breast cancer features.
The value of lateral glenohumeral offset in predicting construct failure in proximal humerus fractures following internal fixation.

Background Proximal humerus fractures are the third most common osteoporosis defining injury in the United States, yet operative fixation of these injuries remains technically challenging. Although several modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors are correlated with failure of proximal humerus fixation, no study has investigated whether failure to restore glenohumeral offset plays a part in fixation failure. The goals of this study are: (1) to determine if lateral glenohumeral offset (LGHO) and humeral head diameter (HHD) can be measured radiographically with accuracy between observers, (2) to observe whether there is a correlation between failure to operatively restore an anatomic LGHO:HHD ratio and failure of fixation, and (3) if there is a correlation, can any recommendations be made in regard to the ideal LGHO:HHD ratio. Methods Retrospective review found 183 patients meeting inclusion criteria who underwent operative fixation for proximal humerus fractures between 2005 and 2018. Patients suffering construct failure requiring reoperation were compared with clinically successful surgeries on the basis of age, sex, fracture morphology, head-shaft angle, smoking history, presence or absence of a calcar screw, and LGHO:HHD ratio. The groups were compared using a combination of Student t-tests, χ2, and bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses where appropriate. The Student t-test and intraclass correlation coefficient were both used to assess interobserver reliability. Results We found that LGHO and HHD can be measured by independent observers accurately (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.80, 95% confidence interval: 0.65-0.89). Patients suffering implant failure had a significantly lower LGHO:HHD ratios compared with those who did not (0.94 vs. 1.03, P ≤ .001). The LGHO:HHD ratio was an independent predictor of implant failure even after controlling for other potential risk factors. Patients with an LGHO:HHD of 1.0 or above have a Conclusion We found the LGHO:HHD ratio to be an independent predictor for construct failure after plate and screw fixation of proximal humerus fractures. Efforts should be made to restore an anatomic ratio of at least 1.0 to minimize the risk of failure.
A Sprint-Based Approach to Teaching Computer Science

Traditional approaches to teaching computer science often involve complex schedules of assignments, projects, and exams. Educators can struggle to balance this schedule while teaching students a course's required hard skills, using innovative pedagogy approaches, preparing students with interpersonal soft-skills, and still disincentivizing cheating. In an effort address these issues, this experience report details the author's work in developing a sprint-based teaching method. This method combines traditional lectures, self-directed learning, and learners as designers in a way that can simplify the scheduled demands on each student, allow the application of newer pedagogical practices, and better prepare students with both hard and soft skills. Described in this paper through four iterations of refinement, this approach allows students to choose their own projects, reduces cheating opportunities, increases instructor-student interaction time, and transitioned well to remote learning when required by the COVID-19 shutdown. Statistically significant survey results from four class sections across two semesters suggest that students prefer this approach to a traditional lecture-based teaching style.
Impacts of Roots of Resilience professional development for early childhood teachers on Young children’s protective factors

Abstract Early care and education (ECE) is an important developmental context for nurturing resilience with young children experiencing adversity. In particular, strengthening the capabilities of adult caregivers, such as ECE teachers, to mitigate the effects of toxic stressors is of central importance to children’s learning, health, and development. Yet, few ECE teachers have access to professional supports focused on meeting the needs of children impacted by trauma. The current study examines a new program that aims to help fill this gap for both home-based and center-based ECE programs: Roots of Resilience: Teachers’ Awakening Children’s Healing. Roots of Resilience is a professional development program consisting of an online course and online video-based coaching. In a small randomized controlled trial (RCT) with 17 classrooms/groups, 23 teachers, and 61 children we examine program impacts on three protective factors: emotionally supportive teacher-child interactions, children’s engagement and children’s school readiness skills. Findings revealed significant impacts of teachers’ participation in Roots of Resilience on (observed) emotionally supportive teacher-child interactions at post, controlling for baseline scores and teacher education. Children whose teachers were randomly assigned to participate in Roots of Resilience showed reductions in (observed) negative engagement and increases in direct assessments of math skills, compared to children whose teachers were assigned to the waitlist control group. No impacts on children’s (observed) positive engagement, nor direct assessments of self-regulation or early literacy were detected. Further research with a larger and more diverse sample is needed to more definitively examine program impacts, identify mechanisms of influence, and address questions about which teachers and/or children may benefit most.
An equivalence analysis of provider education in youth mental health care.

Objective To test for equivalence between providers with and without advanced degrees in multiple domains related to delivery of evidence-based treatment. Data source Provider and client data from an effectiveness trial of Alternatives for Families: A Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (AF-CBT) in a major metropolitan area in the United States. Study design We tested for equivalence between providers (N = 182) with and without advanced degrees in treatment-related knowledge, practices, and attitudes; job demands and stress; and training engagement and trainer-rated competence in AF-CBT. We also conducted exploratory analyses to test for equivalence in family clinical outcomes. Data collection Providers completed measures prior to randomization and at 6-month follow-up, after completion of training and consultation in AF-CBT. Children and caregivers completed assessments at 0, 6, 12, and 18 months. Principal findings Providers without advanced degrees were largely non-inferior to those with advanced degrees in treatment-related knowledge, practices, and attitudes, while findings for job demands and stress were mixed. Providers without advanced degrees were non-inferior to providers with advanced degrees in consultation attendance (B = -1.42; confidence interval (CI) = -3.01-0.16; margin of equivalence (Δ) = 2), number of case presentations (B = 0.64; CI = -0.49-1.76; Δ = 2), total training hours (B = -4.57; CI = -10.52-1.37; Δ = 3), and trainer-rated competence in AF-CBT (B = -0.04; CI = -3.04-2.96; Δ = 4), and they were significantly more likely to complete training (odds ratio = 0.66; CI = 0.10-0.96; Δ = 30%). Results for clinical outcomes were largely inconclusive. Conclusions Provider-level outcomes for those with and without advanced degrees were generally comparable. Additional research is needed to examine equivalence in clinical outcomes. Expanding evidence-based treatment training to individuals without advanced degrees may help to reduce workforce shortages and improve reach of evidence-based treatments.
The (Not So Dire) Future of the Necessary and Proper Power after National Federation of Independent Business v. Sebelius

National Federation of Independent Business v. Sebelius (“NFIB”) has generated much discussion, but too little of it has focused deeply on whether, and the extent to which, the decision will limit the scope of the Necessary and Proper Clause. Following NFIB, many observers doubtless found themselves asking the same questions they were asking in 1995 after the Supreme Court’s decision in United States v. Lopez drew a line in the sand after sixty years of imposing virtually no limits on the federal commerce power: Was the Court really serious about imposing vigorous federalism limits on one of Congress’s biggest powers? This article seeks to answer that question, arguing that NFIB will have a relatively minor overall impact on the scope of the necessary and proper power, even if the Court remains committed to judicial enforcement of federalism. At first blush, it appeared that NFIB could have a dramatic impact, as it seemed to apply new and stringent limits on the necessary and proper power. While the Court recently warned that federalism limits the reach of the necessary and proper power, it had not, until NFIB, gone as far as suggesting that Congress may not regulate indirectly through the necessary and proper power that which it may not regulate directly through an enumerated power. Nevertheless, this article explains that, viewed in the light of decisions handed down leading up to and following NFIB, the decision does not signal a drastic change in doctrine. The Necessary and Proper Clause was not the target of the Court’s federalism ire in NFIB, but rather was the victim of the Supreme Court’s continuing federalism campaign to rein in the federal commerce power. As a result, it should be business as usual (deference to Congress) in cases where Congress seeks to enforce an enumerated power other than commerce, while use of the power in combination with the commerce power likely will trigger closer scrutiny. And if the power is used so aggressively as to transform the Necessary and Proper Clause into a general police power, then it is game over, no matter what enumerated power Congress is trying to enforce.
Examining the effects of modifiable risk factors on postoperative outcomes after total shoulder arthroplasty

Abstract Background/Purpose Modifiable risk factors can impact the surgical outcome after total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA), yet this topic has not been adequately explored. We sought to quantify the effects of common modifiable patient risk factors on the postoperative outcomes and complications in patients who underwent total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA). Methods Data was collected from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) 2006-2016 database for patients undergoing a principle procedure of total shoulder arthroplasty using current procedural terminology (CPT) code 23,472. Modifiable risk factors were defined as patients’ smoking status, use of alcohol, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, recent loss of >10% body weight, malnutrition, and anemia. Outcomes of interest included discharge destination, surgical site infection, wound complications, and hematologic complications. Results There were 14,478 adult patients undergoing total shoulder arthroplasty in the NSQIP database. The majority of patients were Caucasian (83.9%), female (56.2%), and between the ages of 61 and 80 (70.1%). Malnutrition was the only preoperative modifiable variable found to be significantly associated with outcomes. Patients with malnutrition had an increased risk of nonroutine discharge status (OR = 3.12) and hematologic complications (OR = 4.58). Other modifiable risk factors (smoking status, use of alcohol, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, recent loss of >10% body weight, and anemia) analyzed were not significantly associated with outcomes. Conclusions Malnutrition is associated with an approximately 3-time increased likelihood of nonroutine discharge and 5-time increased likelihood of hematologic complications after TSA. Surgeons should have heightened awareness for potential complications in these patients. While surgeons should continue to counsel their patients on all modifiable risk factors, they may not expect to see differences in the clinical outcomes following TSA. Level of Evidence Level III; Prognostic Study
Psychrotrophic Bacillus spp. in Fluid Milk Products: A Review.

Psychrotrophic bacteria have been recognized as a recurring problem in the refrigerated storage and distribution of fluid milk and cream and other perishable dairy products for several decades. Much emphasis has been focused on postpasteurization contaminants that are psychrotrophic, (e.g., Pseudomonas , Flavobacterium , and Alcaligenes spp.). Common sources of these gram-negative, non-sporeforming organisms are equipment surfaces and water supplies. Although these organisms are generally heat sensitive, many of their associated proteinases and lipases can withstand moderate to severe heat treatments and cause product deterioration. With the advance of improved control of postpasteurization contamination by nonheat-resistant psychrotrophs, more recent attention has been directed at psychrotrophic sporeformers and their potential impact on milk quality and shelf life properties. Heat-resistant psychrotrophs include members from the genera Clostridium , Arthrobacter , Microbacterium , Streptococcus , Corynebacterium , and Bacillus . However, the predominant microorganisms which comprise this category are Bacillus species. These bacteria can be introduced into milk supplies from water, udder and teat surfaces, or from soil and milkstone deposits on farm bulk tanks, pumps, pipelines, gaskets, and processing equipment. There is speculation that they can also be postpasteurization contaminants. When in the spore state, these microorganisms easily survive the typical range of pasteurization conditions with subsequent germination and outgrowth of vegetative cells. These organisms produce degradative enzymes (e.g., proteinases, lipases, and phospholipases) similar to those of non-sporeforming psychrotrophs. Enzymatic activity results in the development of objectionable flavor and quality defects in dairy products. The unique combination of both heat-resistant and psychrotrophic properties with the same microorganism represents substantial potential for causing spoilage of perishable milk products. Recent trends of higher pasteurization temperatures and extended refrigerated storage time of both raw and pasteurized milk and cream products exacerbates the significance of this group of microorganisms for the dairy foods industry.
5 – TRUE BUGS (Hemiptera)

The order “ Hemiptera ” includes all of the insects that are known as true bugs. Hemipterans are characterized as soft-bodied insects with piercing and sucking mouthparts and two pairs of wings. The difference in texture between the fore and hind wings in the heteropterans gives this group its name. The true bugs with about 90,000 species worldwide, constitute the largest exopterygote order of insects. Members of the heteropteran family, Reduviidae, are commonly called “assassin bugs” because most species attack and feed on other insects. There are 22 subfamilies in the Reduviidae including the Triatominae , or kissing bugs. Triatomines undergo “hemimetabolous” development. Their life cycle involves egg stage, followed by five nymphal instars. Both sexes of adults and all nymphal instars require blood for their survival and development. The New World triatomines are found in stable, sheltered habitats that are used by reptiles, birds, and a wide variety of mammals for their nests, roosts, or burrows. Most species of triatomines are nocturnal and actively seek blood from diurnal hosts that are resting or sleeping at night. Trypanosoma cruzi that is found in the hindguts of several bugs causes Chagas Disease (American Trypanosomiasis). Triatomines transmit Trypanosoma cruzi to a variety of domestic and wild animals including opossums, armadillos, rodents, carnivores, and monkeys. Residual insecticides that are sprayed on houses or applied to walls in paints are effective in controlling triatomines .
Does Asian race affect hepatitis B virus recurrence or survival following liver transplantation for hepatitis B cirrhosis

To assess whether Asian race is an independent variable affecting survival and hepatitis B virus (HBV) recurrence after liver transplantation, the results of 27 consecutive liver transplants performed between June 1994 and April 1997 for HBV cirrhosis were analysed. In the group of 13 Asians, 38% had associated hepatocellular carcinoma and 62% had positive hepatitis B virus early antigen (HBeAg) or elevated HBV-DNA before transplant. Prophylactic hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) was administered perioperatively and long term at 4-6 weekly interval. Four patients with elevated HBV-DNA received lamivudine before transplantation. The 3 year actuarial patient survival rate was 100% in both Asian and non-Asian patients. Twenty-six patients remained seronegative for hepatitis B virus surface antigen after transplantation. The incidence of post-transplant HBV recurrence was similar: 0% in Asians compared with 7% in non-Asians. There was no recurrence in the group of 12 patients who were HBV-DNA or HBeAg negative pretransplant.
NK cells as a barrier to xenotransplantation

The use of heterologous species for clinical transplantation has attracted increasing interest in recent years due to the shortage of human donors, resulting in significant progress toward the understanding of the mechanisms leading to recognition and rejection of xenogeneic grafts. Analysis of the leukocyte infiltrates found in tissues undergoing delayed xenograft rejection (DXR) has led to the identification of natural killer (NK) lymphocytes as an important effector cell subset. This paper focuses on the role of NK cells in xenogeneic graft rejection, on the biology of NK cells, and on NK-cell receptors in particular. NK cells contribute to the natural host defense mechanisms, both by exerting cytotoxicity on certain virally infected or tumor cells and by releasing cytokines that promote an inflammatory response, such as γ-interferon (IFN), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), granulocyte/macrophage-colony stimulating factor, and macrophage colony-stimulating factor. During NK-cell ontogeny, the CD34 surface antigen is lost and cells acquire the expression of membrane markers characteristic of mature NK cells (CD2, CD 16, CD56) . Chimerism induced by donor-specific bone marrow transplantation has been shown to produce alio- and xenotolerance, even across a discordant barrier, with evidence of NK as well as T- and B-cell tolerance. However, it seems likely that more than one of the approaches briefly outlined above might be eventually necessary to efficiently prevent NK-cell-mediated xenograft damage.
The stance of stalking: a corpus-based analysis of grammatical markers of stance in threatening communications

Threats made by stalkers have tremendous negative effects on the more than one million victims who receive them every year – from experiencing ‘psychological terrorism’ to undergoing physical harm (Burgess and Marchetti, 2009). However, stalking, a criminal offence within the law, is ill-defined and difficult to prosecute, since the victim of stalking must demonstrate the stalker's intent to intimidate or cause ‘substantial emotional distress’ (Black et al., 1990: 717). Linguistically, such indicators of emotion and intent are manifested by markers of ‘stance’, a speaker/writer's culturally organised feelings, judgments or assessments about a recipient or proposition (Biber et al., 1999). Through a corpus analysis of 397 authentic threats, I examine variation in the manifestation and function of overt grammatical markers of stance (adverbials, modals, and that- and to-complement clauses) between threats to stalk, harass and defame. Specifically, certainty verbs + that-complement clause constructions and p...
Indeterminate Probabilities and Smithian and Keynesian Uncertainty

Smith, Keynes, and Knight, in that order, made seminal contributions to decision making which emphasized uncertainty and indeterminate probabilities, as opposed to mere imprecision.De Finetti’s views on uncertainty are diametrically opposed to those of Smith, Keynes, and Knight once the clear cut distinction is drawn between imprecise probabilities and indeterminate probabilities.
How good is good enough?: an ethical perspective informed by technical knowledge

Even when we don't recognize it, our technical decisions and human values interact. An important technical decision with significant ethical implications is "how good is good enough?" [1] This is a question that must be answered by software developers, software buyers, and software users. In this talk, we'll focus on how software developers answer the question, and we'll emphasize the ethical dimensions of the question.
Distinguishing L from M photopigment coding sequences by hybridization to novel locked nucleic acid (LNA) oligonucleotide probes

Many attempts have been made over the years to distinguish human and primate L (long-wavelength sensitive) from M (middle-wavelength sensitive) cone photoreceptors using either immunohistochemistry or in situ hybridization. These attempts have been unsuccessful due to the very high degree of identity between the sequences of the L and M proteins and encoding mRNAs. The recent development of chemically modified oligonucleotide probes, referred to as locked nucleic acid (LNA) probes, has shown that they hybridize with much greater affinity and specificity to the target nucleic acid. This has greatly increased the potential for differentiating L from M cones by in situ hybridization. We have designed LNA oligonucleotide probes that are complementary to either the L or M coding sequences located in exon 5 of the Macaca nemestrina L and M pigment genes. We have shown that the LNA-M and LNA-L probes hybridize specifically to their respective target nucleic acid sequences in vitro. This result strongly suggests that these probes would be instrumental in rapidly distinguishing L from M cone in the entire retina, and in defining the cone mosaic during development and in adults.
A Misclassified Sherd from the Archive of Theopemptos and Zacharias (Ashm. D. O. 810)

Publication of an Ashmolean ostrakon preserving an order to pay from the archive of Theopemptos and Zacharias. The sherd, which dates to the Sasanian occupation of Egypt (specifically to 626), was misclassified as demotic and thus eluded publication alongside other Oxford components of the archive.
A dual role for microglia in promoting tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP) expression in glial cells in response to neuroinflammatory stimuli

Background By neutralizing the effect of the matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), the tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMPs) play a critical role in maintaining tissue proteolysis in balance. As the major reactive glial cell types in the central nervous system (CNS), microglia and astrocytes play fundamental roles in mediating tissue breakdown and repair. As such, it is important to define the TIMP expression profile in these cells, as well as the mechanisms of regulation by neuroinflammatory stimuli.
Characterization of the heavy and light chain immunoglobulin variable region genes used in a set of anti-digoxin antibodies

Five murine A/J hybridomas (the 35-20 group) produce anti-digoxin antibodies that have homologous heavy and light chain immunoglobulin variable regions (VH and VL), yet differ from each other in fine specificity and affinity for digoxin and related cardiac glycosides [Mudgett-Hunter et al. Molec. Immun. 22, 477-488 (1985)]. To determine the origin of the VH and VL genes used in this set of hybridomas, the rearranged VH and VL genes from one of the 35-20 group hybridomas, 40-140, were cloned. The expressed V region, the leader exon and the 5' transcription control regions were sequenced. VH40-140 is a member of the VH36-60 gene family and has greater than 90% homology with several members of that family. A VH40-140 hybridization probe detected two members of the VH36-60 gene family not previously described. The VL40-140 region, a member of the Vk9 subgroup, is nearly identical to the Vk region used by the myeloma T1. Southern analysis with several restriction endonucleases and hybridization probes indicated that the 35-20 group hybridomas each use the same heavy and light chain variable region gene segments in the assembly of their expressed antibody genes. Functional rearranged antibody genes were detected with JH and VH heavy chain probes and with Jk and Vk light chain probes. The availability of the clones of the one heavy and the one light chain variable region gene segment used by the 35-20 hybridoma group will facilitate the use of in vitro mutagenesis in studies of the structural basis of fine specificity in the digoxin antigen-antibody system.
Effect of thyrotoxicosis on ethanol metabolism and on hepatic ethanol oxidation enzymes

The influence and mechanism of action of T4 treatment on ethanol metabolism was investigated by the determination of ethanol elimination in intact rats and by the estimation of alcohol dehydrogenase and the microsomal ethanol oxidizing system activity in isolated rat liver. The rate of ethanol degradation was significantly decreased to 65% of control values in T4-treated rat liver. Similarly blood ethanol disappearance rate was significantly inhibited in thyrotoxic rats as compared to euthyroid animals. Hepatic alcohol dehydrogenase activity was reduced to 39% of control values as a result of T4 treatement; however, the microsomal ethanol oxidizing system activity was not affected. These data suggest that reduction in blood ethanol disappearance rate is associated with inhibition of hepatic alcohol dehydrogenase activity in thyrotoxicosis.
The One in Syrianus’ Teachings on the Parmenides: Syrianus on Parm., 137d and 139a1

This article describes Syrianus’ teachings on the One, as found in his testimonia on the Parmenides. In order to preserve the transcendence of the One, while still providing a fluid universe connected to the One, Syrianus shows how the nature of the One is seen in the structure of the Parmenides itself: the first hypothesis of the Parmenides outlines the primal God, while the intelligible universe is the subject of the second hypothesis, in so far as the intelligible universe is a product of the One. Thus, whatever is negated of the One in the first hypothesis contains a positive analogue in the second hypothesis. With this description of the One in the Parmenides, Syrianus is able to create a complete, fluid universe. Readings of two lemmata, in particular, illuminate Syrianus’ manner of interpreting the Parmenides to show how the One is both transcendent and connected to the universe. In his interpretations of Parmenides 137d and 138a, Syrianus shows how the One is partless with respect to itself, but contains parts with respect to the rest of the universe; and that the One is in itself and in another, again, with respect to itself and with respect to the rest of the universe. With his interpretation of the Parmenides, moreover, one can see how Syrianus differs from the interpretations of Porphyry and Iamblichus, and how he paves the way for Proclus’ reading of the dialogue.
Estrogen signaling is not required for prostatic bud patterning or for its disruption by 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin.

Estrogens play an important role in prostatic development, health, and disease. While estrogen signaling is essential for normal postnatal prostate development, little is known about its prenatal role in control animals. We tested the hypothesis that estrogen signaling is needed for normal male prostatic bud patterning. Budding patterns were examined by scanning electron microscopy of urogenital sinus epithelium from wild-type mice, mice lacking estrogen receptor (ER)α, ERβ, or both, and wild-type mice exposed to the antiestrogen ICI 182,780. Budding phenotypes did not detectably differ among any of these groups, strongly suggesting that estrogen signaling is not needed to establish the prototypical prostatic budding pattern seen in control males. This finding contributes to our understanding of the effects of low-level estrogen exposure on early prostate development. In utero exposure to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) can greatly alter the pattern in which prostatic buds form and reduce their number. For several reasons, including a prior observation that inhibitory effects of TCDD on prostatic budding in rats depend heavily on the sex of adjacent fetuses, we tested the hypothesis that estrogen signaling is needed for TCDD to disrupt prostatic budding. However, budding did not detectably differ among wild-type mice, or mice lacking ERα, ERβ, or both, that were exposed prenatally to TCDD (5 μg/kg on embryonic day 13.5). Nor did ICI 182,780 detectably affect the response to TCDD. These results strongly suggest that estrogen signaling is not needed for TCDD to inhibit prostatic epithelial budding.
A matrix approach to human class II histocompatibility antigens: reactions of four monoclonal antibodies with the products of nine haplotypes.

Three putative HLA-DC-specific monoclonal antibodies, Genox 3.53, BT3/4 and anti-Leu-10, and the HLA-DR-specific antibody, L243, were compared. Their interactions with molecules from homozygous cell lines expressing DR types 1 through 9 were studied. Indirect radioimmunoassays on 29 cell lines demonstrated that Genox 3.53 reactivity correlated with DR1, 2, 6; BT3/4 reactivity correlated with DR 1, 2, 4, 6, 8; and anti-Leu-10 reactivity correlated with DR1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, and 9. In addition, one of six DR3-positive cells and three DR7, DRw10-positive cells reacted with anti-Leu-10 and one of two DR9-positive cells reacted with BT3/4. Binding studies with soluble antigen and competitive radioimmunoassays demonstrated that all three antibodies reacted with the DC1 molecule. Preincubation with BT3/4 blocked anti-Leu-10 binding; Genox 3.53 and L243 did not. Genox 3.53 and L243 were only blocked by themselves. Serial immuno-precipitation showed anti-Leu-10 reacted with non-HLA-DR molecules from cells expressing DR types 1–6, 8 and 9. However, the molecules precipitated by anti-Leu-10 were characteristic class II major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules. Their α and β chains were of lower apparent molecular weight than the DR chains in all haplotypes. They also comigrated with the DC1 molecule precipitated by Genox 3.53. Serial immuno-precipitation also showed that anti-Leu-10 removed all Genox 3.53 reactive molecules from cell lysates, but Genox 3.53 removed only a subset of anti-Leu-10 reactive molecules. These studies show Genox 3.53, BT3/4, and anti-Leu-10 react exclusively with class II MHC molecules that are not HLA-DR, and most likely define different polymorphisms of DC molecules, the human equivalent of mouse I-A products.
Binding Energy of the Positronium Molecule

A suitable variational wave function has been used to obtain the binding energy of the positronium molecule, a stable complex consisting of two electrons and two positrons. We find the binding energy of the complex to be 0.948 eV. This shows that the previous calculations estimated the binding energy of the complex an order of magnitude too low.
Nonideal behavior of alkoxyphenoxazone compounds (cytochrome P-450 substrates) in aqueous solution

Spectral properties of the cytochrome P-450 substrates, methoxy-, ethoxy-, pentoxy-, and benzyloxyphenoxazone (MeOPx, EtOPx, PeOPx, and BzOPx, respectively) were investigated from 350 to 600 nm in ethanol and aqueous buffer. In ethanol, each alkoxyphenoxazone displayed a lambda max at 460 nm and a shoulder around 390 nm. Extinction coefficients (EmM) in ethanol were calculated as MeOPx, 20.5; EtOPx, 20.4; PeOPx, 24.7; and BzOPx, 22.4. In aqueous buffer, only MeOPx obeyed the Lambert-Beer law (lambda max = 480 nm, EmM = 22.1). Three substrates, EtOPx, PeOPx, and BzOPx, displayed anomalous behavior in aqueous solution, wherein the lambda max shifted to lower wavelengths (480-430 nm) and EmM (apparent) decreased as the alkoxyphenoxazone concentration increased. This behavior was dependent on the side chain, and the concentrations at which the spectral changes took place were estimated as: BzOPx, 2 microM; PeOPx, 5 microM; EtOPx, 17 microM; and MeOPx, greater than 20 microM. The blue shift and decreased EmM (apparent) observed for PeOPx at high concentration in aqueous buffer was reversed at high temperature. Unlike EtOPx, PeOPx, and BzOPx, and like MeOPx, hydroxyphenoxazone (resorufin) and unsubstituted phenoxazone obeyed the Lambert-Beer law in aqueous buffer and ethanol. The data suggest that the pentoxy and benzyloxy substituents facilitated a self-association process among the phenoxazones in aqueous solution. The data further show that aqueous solutions should be avoided when spectral data are used to determine alkoxyphenoxazone concentrations.
The Divided University: The impact of budget cuts on faculty in two disciplines

This article explores how budget cuts affected faculty in two departments—a physical sciences department and a humanities department—at one research university in the USA. Using theories of academic capitalism as a guide, the author focuses in particular on changes in governance structures and increasing competition between disciplines for resources and prestige. The article suggests that the physical sciences department was relatively spared, due to its ability to bring in external grants and the role played by the department head while the humanities department suffered from a mass exodus of faculty. Both departmental and institutional operations signal the ways in which universities are increasingly adopting market-like behaviours to survive.
Selecting Kentucky bluegrass cultivars

A computer-aided learning process has been previously developed to identify unique turfgrass cultivar performance levels under specific growing conditions. However, it was not determined if this process was similar to the routine assessments made by turfgrass experts. A survey was sent to 191 turfgrass experts to determine turf cultivar recommendation consistency, to validate a set of computer developed rules of association, and to determine the environmental and management characteristics the experts considered most influential on turfgrass cultivar performance. Seventy completed surveys, mostly from respondents who had worked professionally for at least 10 yr at Land Grant universities, were returned. In the first section of the survey, experts showed a high degree of consistency in recommending Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) cultivars for specific settings. In the second section of the survey, there was inconsistent agreement among survey respondents and machine learning output when presented with rules associating cultivar performance and turf settings. Finally, when asked to indicate which environment or management parameters experts felt most influence performance of specific Kentucky bluegrass cultivars, survey respondents selected mowing height, nitrogen fertilization levels, and irrigation. The computer-aided learning process also identified mowing height and nitrogen fertilization levels as influencing cultivar performance. The machine learning process also selected soil pH and average monthly air temperature as influential. Thus, there was not overall agreement between survey respondents and machine learning output.
PS3-28: The Evolution of Tumor Standards and Its Effect on Observational Data

Background/Aims Quality information is essential to analyzing tumor data. Tumor data standards change over time, making it paramount to understand how the external standards affect the data. The changes, over time, can create artificial data quality issues that result in inaccurate conclusions and inhibit observational research. Improving the quality of data, information, and knowledge is foundational to utilizing the VDW Tumor data for cancer research. The challenges associated with maintaining high quality data in the VDW Tumor data requires a clear understanding of the various data content standards that have historically affected these data. As experts on their tumor data, tumor researchers need to understand and identify which data content standards affect their data. They also need to know how the data standards were implemented and managed in their systems as well as in the standards world of tumor data.
A 57-year-old HIV-positive man with persistent fever, weight loss, and pancytopenia.

A 57-year-old HIV-positive, homosexual man presented with a 1-month history of fatigue, dyspnea, fever, and 10-pound weight loss. Two weeks earlier, he had been admitted to another hospital where an extensive workup failed to demonstrate any occult infection. At that time, he was given an empiric course of intravenous trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, ceftriaxone, and azithromycin without any meaningful resolution of his symptoms. On admission to our institution, he appeared frail with a heart rate of 99 BPM, blood pressure 108/62 mmHg, and temperature 99.8°F. Physical examination demonstrated splenomegaly, but no skin or mucosal changes, and no palpable lymph nodes. Complete blood count revealed pancytopenia with WBC 1.0 x 10 3 /μl, and a differential count of 22% neutrophils, 68% lymphocytes, hemoglobin 7.6 g/di, hematocrit 21.6%, MCV 84 fl, platelet count 26 x 10 6 /μl, and 8% nucleated red blood cells. Peripheral blood smear showed anisopoikilocytosis and macrocytosis (Fig. 1a).
Outer space exploitability: International law and developing nations

Abstract This article outlines the principles upon which international space law is based. Space law has been successful so far in benefiting the developing countries without hampering the spacefaring nations. The principal treaty provisions that are of special interest to developing nations are discussed, and issues associated with remote sensing, communications and environmental harms are examined in detail. Since 1967 there has been a sharp change in the focus of legal concern towards ‘taking into account the particular needs of developing countries’, a principle that will be central to arrangements for the equitable sharing of the benefits of exploiting the space environment and its natural resources.
ngPhylo: N-Gram Modeled Proteins with Substitution Matrices for Phylogenetic Analysis

Phylogenetic tree constructions are important for understanding evolution and species relatedness. Most methods require a multiple sequence alignment (MSA) to be performed prior to inducing the phylogenetic tree. MSAs, however, are computationally expensive and increasingly error prone as the number of sequences increase, as the average sequence length increases, and as the sequences in the set become more divergent. We introduce a new method called ngPhylo, an n-gram based method that addresses many of the limitations of MSA-based phylogenetic methods, and computes alignment-free phylogenetic analyses on large sets of proteins that also have long sequences. Unlike other methods, we incorporate the use of standard substitution matrices to improve similarity measures between sequences. Our results show that highly similar phylogenies are produced to existing MSA-based methods with less computational resources required.
Ecological and genecological distinctions of a high intertidal dwarf form of Fucus distichus (L.) Powell in New England

Abstract Morphological, ecological, and genetic distinctions of a high intertidal, dwarf, non-tide pool member of the Fucus distichus (L.) Powell complex were assessed at an exposed site in southern Maine, U.S.A. Variation in plant stature from typical F. distichus ssp. edentatus (De la Pylaie) Powell to the dwarf form is continuous. On the other hand, measurements of reproductively mature plants collected throughout the eulittoral zone showed a bimodal pattern, i.e., there was a high frequency of dwarf forms (4–8 cm) and F. distichus ssp. edentatus (13–28 cm). The two forms have distinct reproductive phenologies: the dwarf plant exhibiting a unimodal reproductive maximum (fall), while F. distichus ssp. edentatus has pronounced bimodal reproductive maxima (spring and fall). Differences in stature and reproduction between the dwarf form and F. distichus ssp. edentatus were maintained when their respective progeny were grown under common environmental conditions. Thus, the differences are heritable rather than environmentally induced.
Using molecular beacons to probe molecular interactions between lactate dehydrogenase and single-stranded DNA.

The interactions between two key macromolecular species, nucleic acids and proteins, control many important biological processes. There have been limited effective methodologies to study these interactions in real time. In this work, we have applied a newly developed molecular beacon (MB) DNA probe for the analysis of an enzyme, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and for the investigation of its properties of binding with single-stranded DNA. Molecular beacons are single-stranded oligonucleotide probes designed to report the presence of specific complementary nucleic acids by fluorescence detection. The interaction between LDH and MB has resulted in a significant fluorescence signal enhancement, which is used for the elucidation of MB/LDH binding properties. The processes of binding between MB and different isoenzymes of LDH have been studied. The results show that the stoichiometry of LDH-5/MB binding is 1:1, and the binding constant is 1.9 × 10-7 M-1. We have also studied salt effects, binding sites, temperat...
Quantitation of aortic regurgitation by Doppler echocardiography: A practical approach

Abstract Aortic regurgitation is most frequently assessed noninvasively by Doppler echocardiography by use of continuous wave and Doppler color flow mapping. To compare both Doppler methods, 161 patients who had undergone cardiac catheterization and complete echocardiographic studies were studied. The continuous wave parameters analyzed included the slope of the diastolic deceleration and the pressure half-time of the regurgitant jet. From color flow Doppler, conventional parameters such as JH and its ratio to LVOH, JASA and its ratio to LVOA, and the regurgitant JA and its ratio to the LVA were obtained. The JH/LVOH was the color flow parameter that best correlated with angiography (r = 0.91). A ratio of ≤25% was used to predict mild aortic regurgitation with 96% accuracy. A ratio of ≥40% was also used to predict severe aortic regurgitation (3 to 4+) with 96 % accuracy. Absolute JH at the origin of the regurgitant jet was the second best color flow parameter that correlated with angiography (r = 0.89). When continuous wave—derived slope was used, a significant overlap among different degrees of aortic regurgitation was observed. Predictive accuracy for mild aortic regurgitation was 70% by using a slope 3 m/sec2. In conclusion, color flow Doppler appears to be superior to continuous wave Doppler in the assessment of aortic regurgitation. The JH/LVOH appears to be the best color parameter for quantifying aortic regurgitation. The measurement of the absolute JH at its origin appears to be the simplest and most practical method for assessing the degree of aortic regurgitation.
Open-structure reconfigurable experimental workstation for fast and reliable microassembly

This paper reports on an experimentally microassembly workcell developed for efficient and reliable 3D assembly of large numbers of micromachined thin metal parts into DRIE2 etched holes in 8 inch silicon wafers. The major objective is to integrate techniques of microgripper design, microscopic imaging and high precision motion control to build a prototype system for industrial applications. The workcell consists of a multiple-view imaging system, a 4 DOF micromanipulator with high resolution rotation control, a large working space 4 DOF precision positioning system, a flexible microgripper, and control software system. A piezoelectric force sensing unit was integrated with the manipulator system to enhance pickup reliability. Each of these components is presented with analysis of design issues and related experimental results. Operations are partially guided by a human operator through a graphical user interface (GUI). This system provides a highly flexible testbed for wafer-level 3D microassembly.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Coping Patterns among Patients with Life-threatening Diseases

(1985). Coping Patterns among Patients with Life-threatening Diseases. Issues in Mental Health Nursing: Vol. 7, No. 1-4, pp. 461-476.
Mid-infrared Cr 2+ :ZnSe random powder lasers

We report simple methods of laser active Cr2+:ZnSe powder fabrication with average grain sizes of either ~10 or ~1 µm without crystal growth stage. Pure, uniformly mixed ZnSe and CrSe powders annealed at 1000 °C for 3 days in a sealed evacuated (~10-4 Torr) quartz ampoule exhibited middle-infrared laser action at room temperature under 1.56 µm excitation of D2 Raman shifted radiation of Nd:YAG laser. The output-input characteristic clearly demonstrated the threshold-like behavior of the output signal with the threshold energy level of 0.5 and 3 mJ in 2.9 mm spot for 10 and 1 µm grain sizes, respectively.
A star zenith‐finder

The zenith-star locates a place in latitude and longitude, if accurate time is read at the instant of observation. The zenith-point on a star-map may be found by three-pointing other stars, by the method of the topographer. A timed observation, by eye, of the zenith-point among the stars may locate a practiced observer within 30 nautical miles. All navigational schools should train students to recognize declination-belts and meridian-belts among the stars. A student so trained, flying an airplane, could tell, by merely looking up at night, the half-degree belts of latitude between 19° and 22° north, from the south end of Hawaii Island to the middle of Kauai Island.