cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Kinetic analysis of rat parotid gland muscarinic receptors in vivo: comparison with brain and heart

(RR)- and (SS)-quinuclidinyl iodobenzilate enantiomers [(RR)- and (SS)-IQNB, active and inert, respectively] have been synthesized for quantitative evaluation of muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (mAChR) binding. Pharmacokinetic approaches have not been used previously to assess in vivo IQNB binding in nonexcitable tissues. We have applied this method to examine mAChRs in rat parotid gland in comparison to those in brain and heart. Short-term infusion studies in vivo showed that the "instantaneous" reversible binding of (RR)- and (SS)-IQNB was high in the parotid (greater nonspecific binding potential), intermediate in the heart, and lowest in cortex and cerebellum. Long-term bolus injection experiments showed that the parotid gland mAChRs possessed a binding potential for receptor specific sites (380), which was intermediate between that of parietal cortex (930) and cerebellum (10) and greater than that of heart (165). In vitro binding to plasma membranes was generally consistent with the in vivo findings. In aggregate, these studies show that mAChRs can be evaluated in vivo in a nonexcitable tissue with the use of stereospecific ligands and a pharmacokinetic approach. The data suggest that IQNB, a mAChR antagonist, can identify characteristics of specific binding sites, which may reflect tissue differences.
Draft Genome Sequence for the Type Strain Vulcanibacillus modesticaldus BR, a Strictly Anaerobic, Moderately Thermophilic, and Nitrate-Reducing Bacterium Isolated from Deep-Sea Hydrothermal Vents of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge

ABSTRACT Vulcanibacillus modesticaldus BRT was isolated from calcite-rich, metalliferous core samples collected at the Rainbow deep-sea hydrothermal vent field on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Here, we report the 2.2-Mb draft genome sequence for this strain, consisting of 100 contigs with a G+C content of 33.6% and 2,227 protein-coding sequences.
Effects of Naturally Occurring Mutations in CUB-1 Domain on ADAMTS-13 Synthesis, Stability and Activity.

Upon stimulation, vascular endothelial cells release von Willebrand factor (VWF) in the unusually large (UL) and prothrombotic forms. The hyperactive ULVWF multimers are rapidly cleaved by the metalloprotease ADAMTS-13 to smaller forms that are hemostatically active, but no longer prothrombotic. Lack of this VWF- cleaving activity results in accumulation of ULVWF, which agglutinates platelets, leading to microvascular thrombosis as demonstrated in patients with thrombotic thrombocytopenia purpura (TTP). ADAMTS-13 deficiency seen in TTP results from either mutations in the ADAMTS13 gene in familial cases or autoantibodies against the metalloprotease in acquired cases. ADAMTS-13 differs from other members of the family metalloproteases by containing two C-terminal CUB domains, which contain the binding site for VWF and whose mutations are associated with TTP. However, recombinant ADAMTS-13 without CUB domains remains active in vitro . To study the functional role of CUB domains, three naturally occurring mutations in the CUB-1 domain (C1213Y, W1245del and K1256frameshift, the latter two removed CUB-2 and the C-terminal part of CUB-1 domain) were generated by site-directed mutagenesis and expressed in the mammalian Hela cells. The release, stability, and activity of the mutants were then examined. We found that the mutations significantly reduced the release of recombinant ADMATS-13 into the culture medium, but not to the extracellular matrix. The intracellular pools of the recombinants detected in cell lysates were comparable to that of wild-type, indicating that the mutations affected the targeted secretion of the metalloprotease. When measured during a course of up to one month at −80°C, C1213Y and K1256framshift significantly accelerated, whereas W1245del delayed, degradation of the recombinants, which was inhibited by 5 mM of EDTA. The observation demonstrates that CUB domains are also critical for the structural stability of the metalloprotease. In comparison, the three mutants remained active in cleaving (UL)VWF under static and flow conditions. Consistent with the activity measurements, all three mutants bound immobilized VWF with similar kinetics in ELISA assay, indicating that the N-terminal sequence (C1192-D1212) of CUB-1, which is not affected by the mutations, contains the binding site for VWF. The conclusion is supported by our previous data that the CUB-1 synthetic peptides derived from the N-terminal region (H1196-P1220) blocked VWF-ADAMTS-13 interaction and cleavage of ULVWF under flow. Together, these results demonstrate that the CUB domains (primarily CUB-2 and the C-terminal part of CUB-1) are crucial for regulating the targeted ADAMTS-13 secretion and the stability of the metalloprotease; the N-terminal sequence of CUB-1 domain contains the VWF binding site that remains intact after deleting the rest of CUB domains; and the primary cause of ADAMTS-13 deficiency found in patients carrying these mutations is likely due to defective secretion of the metalloprotease.
The congenital great toe malformation of fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva? - A close call.

Abstract Background Congenital bilateral hallux valgus with associated absence or fusion of the interphalangeal joint is a classic diagnostic feature of fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP), a human genetic disease of extra-skeletal bone formation caused in nearly all cases by a gain-of-function mutation in Activin A Receptor I/Activin-like Kinase 2 (ACVR1/ALK2), which encodes a bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) Type 1 receptor. This toe malformation prompts the suspicion of FOP even before the appearance of extra-skeletal bone. Here we report the case of a four-month-old child who was suspected of having FOP on the basis of a great toe malformation identical to that seen in children with the disease. Methods The patient's genomic DNA of the coding region of ACVR1 was sequenced and analyzed for mutations known to cause FOP and novel mutations. Subsequent comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analyses were performed to detect mutations elsewhere in the genome. Results Genetic testing exonerated ACVR1 as culpable for the patient's toe malformation. CGH and SNP analyses identified a large intragenic deletion in a different BMP Type 1 receptor gene, BMP Receptor 1B/Activin-like kinase 6 (BMPR1B/ALK6), a gene associated with a variable spectrum of autosomal dominant brachydactyly phenotypes. Conclusions This report illustrates that while toe morphology remains the earliest indicator of FOP, toe morphology alone is not an unequivocal clinical diagnostic feature of FOP, and supports that embryonic development of the great toe is highly sensitive to dysregulated signaling from at least two BMP type I receptors.
Cervical cancer screening in the era of HPV vaccination: A review of shifting paradigms in cytopathology

Significant changes in cervical cancer screening practice, guidelines, and prevention of cervical cancer have taken place in recent years including the raising of initial cervical cancer screening age, changes in frequency of cytology screening, and the adoption of high risk HPV and cytology co-testing for some patients; the introduction of the bivalent, quadrivalent, and 9-valent HPV vaccines; and the recent approval of high risk HPV testing as primary screening with the use of cytology as triage in positive cases. This review discusses the significance of primary HPV screening, the impact of HPV vaccination in the prevalence of cervical cancer and its precursors, the interplay between high risk HPV testing and vaccination, and the implications for clinical and cytological management. Future strategies for cervical screening in the post-vaccination era are also discussed.
The Impact of Environmental Light Intensity on Experimental Tumor Growth.

BACKGROUND/AIM Cancer research requires for consistent models that minimize environmental variables. Within the typical laboratory animal housing facility, animals may be exposed to varying intensities of light as a result of cage type, cage position, light source, and other factors; however, studies evaluating the differential effect of light intensity during the light phase on tumor growth are lacking. MATERIALS AND METHODS The effect of cage face light intensity, as determined by cage rack position was evaluated with two tumor models using the C57Bl/6NHsd mouse and transplantable B16F10 melanoma cells or Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cells. Animals were housed in individually-ventilated cages placed at the top, middle, or bottom of the rack in a diagonal pattern so that the top cage was closest to the ceiling light source, and cage face light intensity was measured. Following a two-week acclimation period at the assigned cage position, animals were subcutaneously administered either 1.3×106 B16F10 melanoma cells or 2.5×105 Lewis lung carcinoma cells. Weights of excised tumors were measured following euthanasia 18 days (melanoma) or 21 days (LCC) after tumor cell administration. RESULTS Cage face light intensity was significantly different depending on the location of the cage, with cages closest to the light source have the greatest intensity. Mean tumor weights were significantly less (p<0.001 for melanoma; p≤0.01 for LCC) in middle light intensity mice compared to high and low light intensity mice. CONCLUSION The environmental light intensity to which experimental animals are exposed may vary markedly with cage location and can significantly influence experimental tumor growth, thus supporting the idea that light intensity should be controlled as an experimental variable for animals used in cancer research.
Ageing effects on humoral immune responses in chronic periodontitis.

Periodontal disease is a dominant global bacterial infection that increases with ageing. Aim This report focuses on host adaptive immune responses in periodontitis. While experimental models and humans diagnosed with periodontitis demonstrate an antigenic specificity for particular oral bacteria, we have a limited understanding of (i) how ageing affects the adaptive immune responses to these bacteria that chronically colonize the oral cavity for decades prior to disease expression and (ii) how the magnitude and specificity of the response interface with pathogens that emerge within the bacterial ecology during exacerbations of disease. Materials and methods Serum antibody levels to a group of pathogenic and commensal oral bacteria were measured in a population of individuals from 21 to 74 years of age, stratified based on clinical status of the periodontium, smoking and sex. Results Clinical parameters were not significantly different within health, gingivitis or periodontitis groups related to age. Antibody to oral pathogens and commensals was similar in different age groups in each of the clinical categories, with no age correlation noted in the periodontitis patients. Conclusions The adaptive immune responses to oral bacteria that chronically colonize the oral cavity appear generally unaffected by age, but clearly are linked to the extent of disease.
“Trazo sacrificial”, Capital y guerra global contemporánea: apuntes sobre María Zambrano y Las Variaciones Guernica de Guillermo G. Peydró

Este articulo examina el sacrificio como el “trazo de lo sagrado” en el capitalismo actual contemporaneo y en el contexto de secularizacion simultanea al retorno de la religion. Se propone una cone...
Psychiatric Aspects of Organ Transplantation in Children and Adolescents

This article reviews the role of the child and adolescent psychiatrist in the consultation and liaison to pediatric organ transplant teams and their patients. The first section discusses the issues involved in the pretransplant evaluation, stages in the transplant experience, and developmental aspects relevant to transplantation in children and adolescents. Specific attention is given to heart, kidney, liver, and lung transplantation and data on survival rates, waiting periods, and number of transplants and medical indications are presented. The second section discusses the neuropsychiatric and psychosocial outcome studies in the four organ systems, psychopharmacologic intervention, aspects of organ donation, and ethical implications. Recommendations for psychiatric intervention and possible avenues for research are made.
Competition, Compatibility, and Vertical Integration in the Computing Industry

In the last few decades, the markets for computer hardware and software have exhibited very fast growth. The computer sector is a very significant sector of the United States economy and a leading export. Moreover, personal computers are reaching into (i) telephony, and (ii) provision of “content” (movies, video, etc.), two other huge sectors.
Brain, Receptors, and Schizophrenia: Discussion

In considering the neurotransmitters associated with schizophrenia one normally begins with dopamine. This will be no exception, in fact we will begin and end this discussion with a consideration of dopamine. The initial paper in this section by Sokoloff is a superb review of the recent work on DA receptors identified by cloning techniques. This methodology at once promises the possibility of greater specificity in the design of drugs and almost un-understandable levels of complexity in the analysis of transmitter function. This is illustrated by serotonin, where, up until today, 14 clearly different receptors have been identified using cloning methodology. In the case of DA there are apparently six major forms of receptor falling into two classes. Sokoloff clearly reviews this information and presents some of his laboratories extensive data arguing for a special role for the D3 receptor in anti-psychotic effects. His argument rests on three points: (a) the distribution of the receptor is appropriate for mediating psychotic symptoms; (b) the receptor recognizes a wide variety of neuroleptic receptors in the correct order of clinical potency; and (c) long-term blockade does not result in up regulation of the receptor. This last point is important because clinically nothing like tardive psychosis is seen while there are clear clinical signs of up regulation in the motor system leading to tardive dyskinesia. Thus, if the D3 receptor is the site of action for antipsychotic activity this receptor will not be up regulated by long-term antipsychotic drug usage, accounting for the clinical evidence that increasing psychotic symptoms are not generally seen with long-term treatment.
ELECTRON SPIN ECHO STUDIES OF Mn(II) FRAMEWORK SUBSTITUTION IN MnAPO-11

ABSTRACT Electron spin resonance (ESR) and electron spin echo modulation (ESEM) results are compared for MnAPO-11 and Mn-impregnated AIPO4-11 with low Mn(II) content. Significant spectral differences are observed which indicate that MnAPO-11 has framework substituted Mn(II) while the Mn-impregnated AIPO4-II has nonframework Mn(II).
Cholesterol and Mortality: What Can Meta-Analysis Tell Us?

Replication of experimental results has long been one of the cardinal principles of scientific endeavor. Yet because of their size, duration, and cost, this principle has been difficult to apply to clinical trials, where therapeutic recommendations affecting thousands of patients must often be inferred from a relatively small number of studies of varying power and quality, using disparate interventions and study designs, carried out over many years or even decades. Traditionally, it has been the province of “the experts,” often in constituted panels, to sift and weigh the evidence obtained from clinical trials and to derive standards for clinical practice. More recently, the statistical technique of meta-analysis has been applied to groups of related clinical trials to bring more objectivity and quantitative rigor to this process.
TECTAL AND RETICULAR NEURONS RELATED TO GAZE CONTROL

Publisher Summary This chapter describes the tectal and reticular neurons related to gaze control. Experiments on monkeys and cats suggest that neurons in the intermediate layers of the superior colliculus (CS) generate signals that initiate gaze shifts to specific regions in space using retinal, head, or body-related frames of reference. The chapter also analyzes the collateralization and termination patterns of collicular projection neurons and their target cells in the pontine reticular formation selected according to electrophysiological criteria. It has been found that both classes of neurons project to many widely spaced areas in the brain stem and descend to the spinal cord. The chapter discusses that tectal and reticular neurons comprising the fast conducting tectal efferent pathway serve to distribute the movement image elaborated in the CS nearly simultaneously to a variety of structures between the diencephalon and spinal cord. The available data reveal a particularly close relation to structures involved in coordination of eye and head movements.
Unusual presentation of pica in iron-deficiency anaemia associated with primary biliary cholangitis.

A 50-year-old woman presented with worsening fatigue and shortness of breath. For 2 months, she has been having increased craving for unpeeled lemons and was seen in clinic about a month prior to presentation at the emergency room. At that time, she was asymptomatic except for endorsing craving for lemons. Physical exam findings at presentation noted obesity, sinus tachycardia, pallor, mild scleral jaundice and no other stigmata for chronic liver disease. Her labs suggested iron-deficiency anaemia (IDA), elevated liver enzymes and positive antimitochondrial antibody titre. Abdominal ultrasound and CT scan showed mild scarring. She was diagnosed with primary biliary cholangitis with portal hypertension complicated by oesophageal varices and IDA. Interventions included blood transfusion, oesophageal banding and treatment with ursodeoxycholic acid. Her craving for lemons, shortness of breath and fatigue resolved within 1 week. With ongoing outpatient follow-up and oesophageal variceal surveillance, she continues to do well.
Deep Learning Algorithms for Detecting Combustion Instabilities

Combustion instabilities are prevalent in a variety of systems including gas turbine engines. In this regard, the introduction of active control opens the potential for new paradigms in combustor design and optimization. However, the limited ability to detect the onset of instabilities can lead to difficulty in implementing active control approaches. Machine learning—specifically deep learning tools—may be employed to detect instabilities from various measurement and sensor data related to the combustion process. Deep learning models have recently shown remarkable potential for extraction of meaningful features from data without the need to hand-craft. As one of the early studies of deep learning for combustion instability detection, we extract sequential image frames from high-speed images of a premixed, bluff-body stabilized flame which exhibits varying levels of combustion instability. Using an efficient detection framework (based on 2-D convolutional neural networks) to detect the growth of an unstable mode can lead to effective control schemes. In addition, we apply a second deep learning framework to capture the temporal correlations in the data with corresponding learned spatial features.
Setforge - Synthetic RGB-D Training Data Generation to Support CNN-Based Pose Estimation for Augmented Reality

The objective of this contribution is to introduce setforge, a set of software tools for synthetic data generation for convolutional neural network (CNN) training. Our focus is on CNNs for 6-degree-of-freedom pose estimation using RGB-D data. To determine the pose of physical objects in 6-degree-of-freedom is an essential task for many augmented reality applications. The recent years have shown the advent of trainable methods such as CNNs and others. However, those approaches require training data. The tools, this paper introduces, allow one to generate training data from 3D models. They come with plenty of features for random data generation and augmentation, adapting colors, hue, and noise. We contribute these tools as open-source software available on Github. A prototype CNN demonstrates how one can utilize it. An augmented reality demo application also shows its real-time pose estimation performance.
Can native species compete with valuable exotics? Valuing ecological changes in the Lake Michigan recreational fishery

Abstract The Chinook salmon population in Lake Michigan is declining precipitously due to ecological changes, and the impact on recreational fishing value is unknown. We estimate a conditional logit model to characterize how Wisconsin resident anglers react to changes in species-specific availability and catch rates. Using these results, we calculate the non-market value of access to the fishery that reflects current, historical, and potential future fishing conditions. We then predict whether native lake trout and walleye, which are more resilient to the changing conditions in the lake, can maintain the fishery’s value if non-native Chinook salmon collapses. Results show that while large losses would occur absent other improvements, a portion of the fishery’s value could be maintained if substitute species, particularly walleye, improved in quality and were readily accessible.
From spin-crossover to single molecule magnetism: tuning magnetic properties of Co(II) bis-ferrocenylterpy cations via supramolecular interactions with organocyanide radical anions

TCNQ (7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane) anion-radical derivatives were used to fine tune the magnetic properties of the [CoII(Fctp)2]2+ (Fctp = 4′-(2-ferrocenyl)-2,2′:6′2′′-terpyridine) cation in the solid state. The cocrystallization of [CoII(Fctp)2]2+ with TCNQ˙− yielded the two pseudo-polymorphic products [CoII(Fctp)2] (TCNQ)2 (1) and [CoII(Fctp)2] (TCNQ)2·MeCN (2) whereas the analogous reaction with TCNQF˙− (TCNQF = 2-fluoro-7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane) exclusively yielded [CoII(Fctp)2] (TCNQF)2·MeCN (3). Compound 1 exhibits slow relaxation of magnetization under an applied DC field with Ueff = 19.1 K and τ0 = 9.8 × 10−6 s. Compounds 2 and 3 are isostructural but exhibit different spin-crossover behavior with transition temperatures of T1/2 = 336 K and 226 K, respectively. Investigations of the solid state structures by DFT calculations indicate that the differences in magnetic properties of the cationic moiety, [CoII(Fctp)2]2+, are induced by supramolecular interactions between [CoII(Fctp)2]2+ and tunable TCNQ˙−/TCNQF˙− anion-radical derivatives.
Carburization of metals by a chemical mechanism of carbon transport through molten fluoride salts

Abstract Carburization of structural alloys used in Fluoride Cooled High Temperature Reactors (FHR) can result from the interaction between the metal and graphite components and cause changes in alloy properties. However, carburization requires transport of carbon from graphite to alloy surfaces through the molten fluoride coolant. This work introduces an alternative to previously proposed carbon transport mechanisms. The new mechanism is based on the generation of carbonate ions (CO32−) by oxide impurities in the salt reacting with graphite. CO32− is then reduced on metal surfaces to deposit carbon. This work demonstrates the reduction of dissolved CO32− on pure Fe, Ni, Cr, Mo, and W surfaces without an applied potential in molten FLiNaK at 700 °C. We also demonstrate that the interaction between oxide and graphite in molten FLiNaK media produces CO32−.
Abstract A70: Studying the signaling pathways of tumorigenic epithelial fallopian tube subpopulations during early tumorigenesis

Survival rates for high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC) patients have not substantially improved over the past decades, mainly because the disease is only detected at the metastatic stage. The findings of early premalignant lesions in the fallopian tube, but not in the ovary, suggested that HGSOCs may originate from the fallopian tube epithelium (FTE) and metastasize to the ovary. Studying the mechanisms of HGSOC genesis from the correct cell of origin is critical to the early detection of the disease. Our main goal is to determine how genetic and molecular alterations contribute to the early events of HGSOC genesis from FTE. Deletion of PTEN alone in FTE is sufficient to lead to tumor formation and peritoneal dissemination, suggesting that loss of PTEN may play a pivotal role in the early events of the tumorigenic cascade. Herein we show that loss of PTEN in the FTE upregulates markers of tumor-initiating cells (TIC) such as WNT4, LGR5, ALDH1, c-Kit, CD44, and Dll4. We also discovered that the TIC markers are confined in a specific population of cells with increased diameter that we call TICHigh as compared to a smaller population that we call TICLow. In fact, when these two populations are separated by flow cytometry-based sorting, the TICHigh retains all the TIC markers. In addition, using a limiting dilution assay, we found that the TICHigh subpopulation forms tumor at a faster rate in vivo and colonize more the ovary ex vivo. In addition, TICHigh forms bigger spheroids and are more resistant to chemotherapeutic agents, suggesting that more targeted therapy may be developed for these stem-like, tumorigenic subpopulations. We also show that loss of PAX2 is mediating the TICHigh phenotype and that activation of AKT is not sufficient to induce the TIC phenotype whereas p70S6K activation is required. These findings suggest that therapies to re-express PAX2 may prevent development of HGSOC. Together, these findings provide a novel model to study the mechanism of fallopian tube tumor initiation and invasion to the ovary mediated by loss of PTEN, which may help to define early events of human ovarian carcinogenesis. Citation Format: Angela Russo, Matthew Dean, Dan Lantvit, Joanna E. Burdette. Studying the signaling pathways of tumorigenic epithelial fallopian tube subpopulations during early tumorigenesis [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Advances in Ovarian Cancer Research; 2019 Sep 13-16, 2019; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2020;26(13_Suppl):Abstract nr A70.
Community memory screening as a strategy for recruiting older adults into Alzheimer's disease research

Growing awareness of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has prompted a demand for quick and effective ways to screen for memory loss and cognitive decline in large numbers of individuals in the community. Periodic Memory Screening Day events provide free, brief cognitive screening aimed at those 65 years and older, and can serve as an opportunity to gauge participants’ attitudes towards AD research and recruit them into ongoing research projects. Over 6 single-day events in 2 years, more than 574 individuals were individually screened using the MoCA and a story recall task (immediate and delayed), given feedback about their performance, and introduced to AD research and opportunities to participate. Screening classified 297 individuals (52.0%) as having “No Decline,” 192 (33.6%) as “Possible decline,” and 82 (14.4%) as “Likely decline.” Those with “Likely decline” were older and less educated, had more memory concerns, were more likely to be men, and were less likely to have a positive family history of dementia than those with “No Decline.” Subsequent validation of screening procedures against a full clinical evaluation showed 72% classification accuracy with a skew towards over-calling Possible and Likely decline and thereby guiding questionable individuals to a more thorough evaluation. Of those screened, 378 (66%) agreed to additional research and consented to being listed in a research registry, and a majority (70–85%) of those consenting reported they were amenable to various AD research procedures including lumbar puncture, MRI, and autopsy. Overall, 19.1% of those screened met inclusion criteria for ongoing studies and were successfully recruited into AD research. Conducting a few concentrated community memory screening events each year may help meet the public’s demand for brief assessment of memory concerns and can be a relatively effective and efficient recruitment strategy for AD research.
Is Exercise the Best Medicine during a COVID-19 Pandemic? Comment on Constandt, B.; Thibaut, E.; De Bosscher, V.; Scheerder, J.; Ricour, M.; Willem, A. Exercising in Times of Lockdown: An Analysis of the Impact of COVID-19 on Levels and Patterns of Exercise among Adults in Belgium. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17 , 4144.

From Constandt et al.'s survey of 13,515 Belgium respondents, regular physical activity can be successfully initiated and sustained during a lockdown, with appropriate social distancing measures. Documentation that 77% of highly active people and 58% of low active people exercised as much or more following the institution of a nationwide lockdown was impressive, given that the cases of COVID-19 were accelerating at that time. The Belgian government's central promotion of exercise, to boost both the mental and physical health of the population, likely contributed to the health, tolerance, and ultimate success of lockdown. In this commentary, we wish to pose a follow-up query which highlights the potential detrimental effects of intense exercise (competition) performed without social distancing measures. The proposed graphical abstract elucidates these possible risks, in contrast to the favorable results outlined in Constandt et al.'s study.
Vaccines against botulism

The clostridial neurotoxins (CNTs) are the most toxic proteins for humans and include botulinum neurotoxins (BoNT) and tetanus neurotoxin (TeNT). CNT neurotropism is based upon the preferred binding and entry into neurons and specific cleavage of neuronal SNARE proteins. While chemically inactive TeNT toxoid remains an effect vaccine, the current pentavalent vaccine against botulism is in limited supply. Recent advances have facilitated the development of the next generation of BoNT vaccines, utilizing non-catalytic full-length BoNT or a subunit vaccine composed of the receptor binding domain of BoNT as immunogens. This review describes the issues and progress towards the production of a vaccine against botulism that will be effective against natural BoNT variants.
Endocrine Health in Childhood Cancer Survivors.

Endocrine late effects, including reproductive disorders and secondary thyroid cancer, have been reported in up to 50 %childhood cancer survivors (CCS) more than 5 years after treatment. Most endocrine disorders are amenable to treatment; awareness of symptoms is therefore of great importance. Recognition of these symptoms may be delayed however because many are nonspecific. Timely treatment of endocrine disorders improves quality of life in CCS and prevents possible consequences, such as short stature, bone and cardiovascular disorders, and depression. At-risk CCS must therefore be regularly and systematically monitored. This article provides a summary of the most commonly reported endocrine late effects in CCS.
Zebrafish Neighbor Distance Changes Relative to Conspecific Size, Position in the Water Column, and the Horizon: A Video-Playback Experiment

Many fish form schools and maintain visual contact with their neighbors in a three-dimensional environment. In this study, we assessed whether zebrafish modified their spacing and interaction time in an additive or multiplicative way relative to multiple sources of social information using computer animations. We simultaneously manipulated: (a) the size of the virtual conspecific (as a proxy of social cue mangitude), (b) the position of the virtual conspecific in the water column (as a proxy of the level of perceived risk), and (c) the absence/presence of the visual horizon (as a proxy of depth perception). We found that the size of the virtual conspecific independently affected spacing behavior (zebrafish increased their separation distance as conspecific size increased). However, some of these factors interacted significantly, such that their effects on social behavior depended on each other. For instance, zebrafish increased their separation distance under high risk conditions when the virtual conspecific was larger, but this risk effect disappeared when the conspecific was the same size or smaller, likely to avoid aggression. Also, zebrafish increased their separation distance when depth perception was enhanced under low risk conditions, but the effect of depth perception disappeared under high risk conditions. Overall, we found that certain dimensions of the visual social enviornment affected zebrafish spacing behavior in different ways, but they did not affect social interaction time. We discuss the implications of these findings for the spatial organization of fish schools.
Coronary revascularization in patients with stable coronary disease and diabetes mellitus.

Purpose of Study:Diabetes mellitus accelerates the development of atherosclerosis. Patients with diabetes mellitus have higher incidence and mortality rates from cardiovascular disease and undergo ...
Sex Differences in Acute Alcohol Sensitivity of Naïve and Alcohol Dependent Central Amygdala GABA Synapses.

Aims Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is linked to hyperactivity of brain stress systems, leading to withdrawal states which drive relapse. AUD differs among the sexes, as men are more likely to have AUD than women, but women progress from casual use to binge and heavy alcohol use more quickly and are more likely to relapse into repetitive episodes of heavy drinking. In alcohol dependence animal models of AUD, the central amygdala (CeA) functions as a hub of stress and anxiety processing and gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic signaling within the CeA is involved in dependence-induced increases in alcohol consumption. We have shown dysregulation of CeA GABAergic synaptic signaling in alcohol dependence animal models, but previous studies have exclusively used males. Methods Here, we used whole-cell patch clamp electrophysiology to examine basal CeA GABAergic spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents (sIPSC) and the effects of acute alcohol in both naive and alcohol dependent rats of both sexes. Results We found that sIPSC kinetics differ between females and males, as well as between naive and alcohol-dependent animals, with naive females having the fastest current kinetics. Additionally, we find differences in baseline current kinetics across estrous cycle stages. In contrast to the increase in sIPSC frequency routinely found in males, acute alcohol (11-88 mM) had no effect on sIPSCs in naive females, however the highest concentration of alcohol increased sIPSC frequency in dependent females. Conclusion These results provide important insight into sex differences in CeA neuronal function and dysregulation with alcohol dependence and highlight the need for sex-specific considerations in the development of effective AUD treatment.
Debriefing Using a Structured and Supported Approach

Debriefing is recognized as a best practice in simulation education but is only one of several methods of providing participant feedback. The purpose of a debriefing is to provide students with the opportunity for review of their simulation experience through facilitated dialogue which leads to reflection, enhanced learning, and change in practice. In this chapter, the authors describe the development and use of a structured method for debriefing individuals and teams of providers. Developed in collaboration with the American Heart Association, the “structured and supported method” includes three phases with associated goals, objectives, and time frames. Many simulation educators are busy, practicing professionals. Because of this, the primary development goal was to build a streamlined debriefing method which was both easy to learn and scalable. It was also important that the method drew on available literature and was validated by use at the Winter Institute for Simulation Education and Research (WISER). Another aspect when considering the method includes use of the gather, analyze, and summarize (GAS) debriefing tool. This tool allows even novice debriefers to rapidly gain skill in debriefing while remaining comfortable with the process. Ability to maintain a student-centric, safe environment where gaps in knowledge, skill, or performance are identified and addressed is central to the method.
Molecular dissection of prethymic progenitor entry into the T lymphocyte developmental pathway.

Notch signaling activates T lineage differentiation from hemopoietic progenitors, but relatively few regulators that initiate this program have been identified, e.g., GATA3 and T cell factor-1 (TCF-1) (gene name Tcf7). To identify additional regulators of T cell specification, a cDNA library from mouse Pro-T cells was screened for genes that are specifically up-regulated in intrathymic T cell precursors as compared with myeloid progenitors. Over 90 genes of interest were identified, and 35 of 44 tested were confirmed to be more highly expressed in T lineage precursors relative to precursors of B and/or myeloid lineage. To a remarkable extent, however, expression of these T lineage-enriched genes, including zinc finger transcription factor, helicase, and signaling adaptor genes, was also shared by stem cells (Lin^−Sca-1^+Kit^+CD27^−) and multipotent progenitors (Lin^−Sca-1^+Kit^+CD27^+), although down-regulated in other lineages. Thus, a major fraction of these early T lineage genes are a regulatory legacy from stem cells. The few genes sharply up-regulated between multipotent progenitors and Pro-T cell stages included those encoding transcription factors Bcl11b, TCF-1 (Tcf7), and HEBalt, Notch target Deltex1, Deltex3L, Fkbp5, Eva1, and Tmem131. Like GATA3 and Deltex1, Bcl11b, Fkbp5, and Eva1 were dependent on Notch/Delta signaling for induction in fetal liver precursors, but only Bcl11b and HEBalt were up-regulated between the first two stages of intrathymic T cell development (double negative 1 and double negative 2) corresponding to T lineage specification. Bcl11b was uniquely T lineage restricted and induced by Notch/Delta signaling specifically upon entry into the T lineage differentiation pathway.
FUSE and the Quest for High-Resolution Spectroscopy in the Far Ultraviolet

The Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer (FUSE) instrument covers the spectral range 912-1187 A with a resolving power of 15,000 to 20,000. This spectral region provides unique access for the study of many atomic and ionic species found in the interstellar medium, intergalactic medium, stars, and extragalactic objects. This paper summarizes the status of the mission and then discusses the need for higher resolution spectroscopy. Although the FUSE instrumental resolution is sufficient to separate most species, it usually it is not adequate for analyzing the gas velocity structure in detail. Implications for future missions are discussed.
Role of surface‐water and groundwater interactions on projected summertime streamflow in snow dominated regions: An integrated modeling approach

[1] Previous studies indicate predominantly increasing trends in precipitation across the Western United States, while at the same time, historical streamflow records indicate decreasing summertime streamflow and 25th percentile annual flows. These opposing trends could be viewed as paradoxical, given that several studies suggest that increased annual precipitation will equate to increased annual groundwater recharge, and therefore increased summertime flow. To gain insight on mechanisms behind these potential changes, we rely on a calibrated, integrated surface and groundwater model to simulate climate impacts on surface water/groundwater interactions using 12 general circulation model projections of temperature and precipitation from 2010 to 2100, and evaluate the interplay between snowmelt timing and other hydrologic variables, including streamflow, groundwater recharge, storage, groundwater discharge, and evapotranspiration. Hydrologic simulations show that the timing of peak groundwater discharge to the stream is inversely correlated to snowmelt runoff and groundwater recharge due to the bank storage effect and reversal of hydraulic gradients between the stream and underlying groundwater. That is, groundwater flow to streams peaks following the decrease in stream depth caused by snowmelt recession, and the shift in snowmelt causes a corresponding shift in groundwater discharge to streams. Our results show that groundwater discharge to streams is depleted during the summer due to earlier drainage of shallow aquifers adjacent to streams even if projected annual precipitation and groundwater recharge increases. These projected changes in surface water/groundwater interactions result in more than a 30% decrease in the projected ensemble summertime streamflow. Our findings clarify causality of observed decreasing summertime flow, highlight important aspects of potential climate change impacts on groundwater resources, and underscore the need for integrated hydrologic models in climate change studies.
Atmospheric neutrinos and astrophysical neutrinos in proton decay experiments.

We present simple analytical estimates of the fluxes of atmospheric and interstellar neutrinos. We show that the geomagnetic cutoff strongly suppresses the fluxes of atmospheric neutrinos below 1 GeV from directions of low magnetic latitudes and may open a window for neutrino astronomy. We demonstrate the validity of our estimates through indirect tests.
Constructing engaged learning in Scientific Writing

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to incorporate a blended pedagogical approach to Scientific Writing, and assess its effectiveness in improving students’ writing skills and scientific literacy. Effective writing is vital to the dissemination of scientific information and a critical skill for undergraduate science students. Various pedagogical strategies have been successful in improving writing skills and developing scientific literacy. Design/methodology/approach – Mean scores on draft and revision assignments were examined longitudinally (2013 cohort, n=51) and across cohorts (2011, 2012, and 2013; combined n=94). Domain-specific composite scores were calculated from survey items addressing students’ self-perceptions of knowledge (K), general and scientific writing skills (GWS and SWS), and attitudes (A) related to scientific literacy. Changes in composite scores were analyzed using paired t-tests, and cross-cohort differences were examined via MANOVAs (SPSS, p < 0.05). Findings – Mean scores on r...
Chain relaxation kinetics in the intramolecular charge transfer reaction of 1-(9-anthryl)-3-(4-dimethylaniline)propane in supercritical CO2: bulk solvent properties characterize reactivity

Abstract Intramolecular charge transfer rate constants of ADMA (1-(9anthryl)-3-(4-N,N-dimethylaniline)propane) have been determined vs. density in supercritical fluid CO2 from fluorescence lifetimes of ADMA and APP (1-(9-anthryl)-3-phenylpropane). Comparison with results in mixed liquids indicates that viscosity plays a dominant role in determining the kinetics in supercritical CO2. The chain relaxation times observed in supercritical CO2 follow the behavior predicted from the bulk fluid viscosity, demonstrating that local density enhancement has no effect on this diffusion-controlled reaction rate. The results serve to characterize the length scale over which solvent density augmentation in supercritical CO2 may influence diffusion-controlled reactions.
Autonomous obstacle avoidance using visual fixation and looming

This paper describes a vision-based method for avoiding obstacles using the concepts of visual looming and fixating motion. Visual looming refers to the expansion of images of objects in the retina. Usually, this is due to the decreasing distance between the observer and the object. An increasing looming value signifies an increasing threat of collision with the object. The visual task of avoiding collision can be further simplified by purposive control of visual fixation at the objects in front of the moving camera. Using these two basic concepts real time obstacle avoidance in a tight perception-action loop is implemented. Three-dimensional space in front of the camera is divided into zones with various degrees of looming-based threat of collision. For each obstacle seen by a fixating camera, looming and its time derivative are calculated directly from the 2-D image. Depending on the threat posed by an obstacle, a course change is dictated. This looming based approach is simple, independent of the size of the 3-D object and its range and involves simple quantitative measurements. Results pertinent to a camera on a robot arm navigating between obstacles are presented.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
A role for aerosolized antibiotics

Chronic airways infection is associated with the greatest morbidity and mortality of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). The CF airways become infected early in life and once established, the infection is difficult, if not impossible, to eradicate, with Pseudomonas aeruginosa becoming the predominant organism over time. Aerosol antibiotics have been used successfully for suppression of chronic Pseudomonas infection but are being investigated for even earlier use, such as treatment of first infection. This review will address important factors in the choice of an antibiotic for the treatment of airways infection, the potential advantages of aerosol antibiotics, and the outcomes that could be considered in the assessment of aerosolized antibiotics for the treatment of CF airways disease. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2008; 43:S29–S34. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Influence of tree canopies on grassland productivity and nitrogen dynamics in deciduous oak savanna

Abstract In oak and annual grassland savanna in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, CA, soils under deciduous blue oak ( Quercus douglasii ) canopies have higher nitrogen (N) turnover and inorganic N availability than surrounding open grassland soils, as measured by seasonal changes in inorganic N pools, mineralizable N (anaerobic incubation) and nitrification potential (chlorate inhibition assay). Higher N fertility is attributed to mineralization of oak leaf litter, which is several times more abundant under the oak canopy than in open grassland. Similar amounts of above-and below-ground litter of herbaceous plants were sampled in both areas. Soil water potential (0–30 cm) differed little between the understory and open grassland, even during the onset of summer drought in April and May. Over 3 years of study, annual above- and below-ground productivity and plant N accumulation in both communities were generally very similar. Although the two areas differ in species composition, rates of seedling establishment, seasonal phenology (more delayed in understory annuals), and dry weight and N allocation patterns (greater dependence of seed production on currently assimilated rather than stored resources in understory annuals), these differences are not great enough to affect productivity at this site. Even if forage production in the blue oak savanna does not benefit from the presence of oak canopies, soils under oaks harbor a reservoir of soil organic N that could be rapidly lost or redistributed if oaks are removed for management purposes.
A Teleconnection between Forced Great Plains Snow Cover and European Winter Climate

Abstract Anomalies in Siberian snow cover have been shown to affect Eurasian winter climate through the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO). The existence of a teleconnection between North American snow cover and the NAO is far less certain, particularly for limited, regional snow cover anomalies. Using three ensembles of the Community Atmosphere Model, version 2 (CAM2), the authors examined teleconnections between persistent, forced snow cover in the northern Great Plains of the United States and western Eurasian winters. One ensemble allowed the model to freely determine global snow cover, while the other two forced a 72-cm snowpack centered over Nebraska. Of the forced ensembles, the “early-season” (“late season”) simulations initiated the snowpack on 1 November (1 January). The additional snow cover generated lower (higher) sea level pressures and geopotential heights over Iceland (the Azores) and warmer (cooler) temperatures over northern and western (eastern and southeastern) Europe, which suggests the...