Mutagenesis of Claudins to Probe in vivo Interactions and Assemblies

Paracellular transport of solutes and the control of the flow of molecules through the intracellular space in vertebrate epithelia is directed by tight junctions (TJs). Claudins form paracellular barriers and pores that determine tight junction permeability. This investigation attempts to explain the molecular bases for destruction and reconstruction of tight junctions within epithelial cells, occurring via both natural and disease-causing mechanisms. This interdisciplinary research is important in the advancement of our understanding of human biology and health, as different disruptions to epithelial tight junctions are hallmarks of many human diseases. The overall objective was to take previously made Claudin containing vectors (pEGFP-N3) containing a Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) sequence and utilize site specific mutations to change the sequences to express Cyan Fluorescent Protein (CFP) and Yellow Fluorescent Protein (YFP). Proteins tested in this experiment were Human Claudins 1, 9, 19, Tricellulin, and Occludin. Once the specified claudins and TAMPs are tagged with CFP and YFP, FRET microscopy techniques can be utilized to determine generic interactions within the formation of TJs, forming a baseline for future research

Mutagenesis of Claudins to Probe in vivo Interactions and Assemblies

Paracellular transport of solutes and the control of the flow of molecules through the intracellular space in vertebrate epithelia is directed by tight junctions (TJs). Claudins form paracellular barriers and pores that determine tight junction permeability. This investigation attempts to explain the molecular bases for destruction and reconstruction of tight junctions within epithelial cells, occurring via both natural and disease-causing mechanisms. This interdisciplinary research is important in the advancement of our understanding of human biology and health, as different disruptions to epithelial tight junctions are hallmarks of many human diseases. The overall objective was to take previously made Claudin containing vectors (pEGFP-N3) containing a Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) sequence and utilize site specific mutations to change the sequences to express Cyan Fluorescent Protein (CFP) and Yellow Fluorescent Protein (YFP). Proteins tested in this experiment were Human Claudins 1, 9, 19, Tricellulin, and Occludin. Once the specified claudins and TAMPs are tagged with CFP and YFP, FRET microscopy techniques can be utilized to determine generic interactions within the formation of TJs, forming a baseline for future research

Elementary principals and conflict management: A critical incident study

The purpose of this study was to identify the types of conflict elementary principals report experiencing and to identify the behaviors of the principals that led to successful or unsuccessful conflict management. Data were gathered using the Critical Incident Technique. 32 elementary principals were asked to discuss two conflict situations in which they had been involved—one with a successful result, and one with an unsuccessful result. The principals then described the behaviors they exhibited during each situation. The results indicated that the conflicts principals encounter fall into 3 categories: Conflict with parents, conflict with students, and conflict with staff. 58 critical incidents were reported. 21 of these incidents were in the category of “conflict with parents”, 20 in “conflict with students”, and 17 in “conflict with staff.” The behaviors principals used when managing a conflict successfully include: gathered/provided information, intentional choices for meeting location, physical/verbal gestures, policy/law reminders, followed-up, positives discussed, set guidelines, met with individuals/group, timing, listening, empowering others, utilized outside resources, and developed a plan. The behaviors principals used when managing a conflict unsuccessfully include: principal\u27s inaccurate assumptions, one-sided decision-making, emotional reaction, did not set guidelines, principal\u27s ineffective use of time, lack-of focus, and unwise communication skills. Further research is needed in the following areas: identifying critical behaviors in the conflict situations principals encounter, the appropriate place of behavioral skill training in preparation programs, and research in the critical elements of listening