Our previous study demonstrated that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), now referred to as VEGF-A, plays a significant role in blood-brain barrier (BBB) breakdown and angiogenesis after brain injury. In this study, VEGF-A expression was compared with that of VEGF-B in the rat cortical cold injury model over a period of 6 hours to 6 days post-injury. VEGF-A and VEGF-B mRNA were detected by in situ hybridization and their protein was detected by immunohistochemistry. The presence of VEGF-A and VEGF-B proteins in endothelium of lesion vessels was related to BBB breakdown by double labeling for either of these growth factors and fibronectin, which was used as a marker of BBB breakdown. Significant induction of both VEGF-A and VEGF-B mRNA occurred at the lesion site during the period of maximal endothelial proliferation. VEGF-A mRNA levels peaked at 3 and 4 days post-injury and returned to basal expression by day 6, while VEGF-B mRNA levels remained elevated up to day 6. VEGF-B protein was constitutively expressed in endothelium of all cerebral vessels. After brain injury, there was increased immunoreactivity for VEGF-B at the lesion site, this protein being present in the endothelium and vascular smooth muscle cells of pial vessels, in inflammatory cells, and later in proliferating endothelial cells, endothelium of neovessels, and astrocytes. Lesion vessels showing BBB breakdown to fibronectin showed endothelial VEGF-A protein but not VEGF-B protein. Constitutive expression of VEGF-B in normal endothelium suggests that it may have a role in maintenance of the BBB in steady states, while its induction at both the gene and protein level post-injury indicates that it has an essential role in angiogenesis and the repair processes after brain injury.

Many veterans returning from service in Afghanistan or Iraq suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder or mild traumatic brain injury. Treating these conditions can be challenging because of high rates of relapse and associated memory impairments. We report on a pilot study that assessed the utility of mobile health (mHealth) technologies, including personal digital assistant-based ecological momentary assessment and two-way interactive text (SMS) messaging, for providing treatment feedback to clinicians, encouraging and motivating veterans throughout treatment, and monitoring participants for relapse after treatment discharge. The results of the pilot suggest that mHealth technologies are feasible adjuncts to traditional mental treatment in the veteran population. Additional work is needed to establish the degree of clinical and economic value.

A characterization study was conducted on defatted corn syrup (DCS) from an ethanol dry-grind process and its potential as feedstock for biobased products and biofuel is evaluated. Analyses included total solids, ash content, total protein, amino acids, inorganic elements, starch, total carbohydrates, lignin, organic acids, glycerol, and presence of functional groups. Total solids content was 37.4% (±0.4%) by weight, and the mass balance closure was 101 (±0.5%). Total carbohydrates [27% (±5%) wt of dry solids] were composed of starch (6.3%), soluble monomer carbohydrates (12%), and nonstarch carbohydrates (9.3%). Hemicellulose components (structural and nonstructural) were xylan (6%), xylose (1%), mannan (1%), mannose (0.4%), arabinan (1%), arabinose (0.4%), galatactan (3%), and galactose (0.4%). On the basis of measured physical and chemical components, a biochemical conversion route and subsequent fermentation to value-added products is a good possibility. Though less promising as a feedstock for liquid transportation fuels, DCS has the potential to meet current United States demand (20–30 million kg per year) for succinic acid. Finally, even without any form of hydrolysis, DCS could also potentially meet global demand for histidine (360,000 kg per year).

This qualitative study examined the life course of ten adults who participated as youth in the 4-H International Exchange program. The purpose of this research was to explore the pathways that led each participant to their exchange experience as a youth and how that experience set the stage for further development into an adulthood marked by cultural interest, awareness, competence and global citizenship. Using a grounded theory approach the data were analyzed through selective, open, and axial codings that elucidated a series of key events, opportunities, and qualities that form a common pathway among all participants. The results of this research contribute to the articulation of a theory of change upon which international youth exchange programs can be effectively developed and enhanced. Specific recommendations for international youth exchange programs are presented.