A self-assembling peptide matrix used to control stiffness and binding site density supports the formation of microvascular networks in three dimensions.

A three-dimensional (3-D) cell culture system that allows control of both substrate stiffness and integrin binding density was created and characterized. This system consisted of two self-assembling peptide (SAP) sequences that were mixed in different ratios to achieve the desired gel stiffness and adhesiveness. The specific peptides used were KFE ((acetyl)-FKFEFKFE-CONH2), which has previously been reported not to support cell adhesion or MVN formation, and KFE-RGD ((acetyl)-GRGDSP-GG-FKFEFKFE-CONH2), which is a similar sequence that incorporates the RGD integrin binding site.

Comparison of the gelatinization behavior of organic and conventional spelt starches assessed by thermal and rheological analyses.

The objective of this study was to compare gelatinization properties and molecular composition of starches extracted from locally grown organic and conventional spelt using thermal, rheological, and SEC analyses, along with Concanavalin A method. Organic and conventional spelt was planted in six replicated plots, and the extracted starch was analyzed for their gelatinization properties. DSC showed that the gelatinization temperature ranged from 56.

Veterans' access to and use of Medicare and Veterans Affairs health care.

Objectives: We examined the impact of access to care characteristics on health care use patterns among those veterans dually eligible for Medicare and Veterans Affairs (VA) services.

Methods: We used a retrospective, cross-sectional design to identify veterans who were eligible to use VA and Medicare health care in calendar year 1999. We analyzed national VA utilization and Medicare claims data.

A new technique for the measurement of the dynamic evolution of surface tension.

We develop a novel technique which deduces the surface tension in air of a fluid as a function of surface age, beginning at age zero. The technique utilizes pointwise measurements of perpendicular free surface profiles of a steady oscillating jet corresponding to a discretization interval on the order of 0.1 ms.

The thickness of the tear film.

Measurements of the thickness of the pre-corneal tear film, pre-lens tear film, post-lens tear film, and the lipid layer on the surface of the tear film are summarized. Spatial and temporal variations in tear film thickness are described. Theoretical predictions of tear film thickness are discussed.