cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Asymmetric Total Syntheses of (−)-Variabilin and (−)-Glycinol

Total syntheses of (−)-variabilin and (−)-glycinol have been accomplished, using the catalytic, asymmetric “interrupted” Feist–Benary reaction (IFB) as the key transformation to introduce both stereogenic centers. A monoquinidine pyrimidinyl ether catalyst affords the IFB products in over 90% ee in both cases. Other key steps include an intramolecular Buchwald–Hartwig coupling and a nickel-catalyzed aryl tosylate reduction.
A Survey on the Lead Poisoning in Children Living in Guangzhou Area

Objective To conduct a survey to evaluate the serum levels of lead in children living in Guangzhou area,2009.Methods The concentration of lead was determined using the Tungster atomizer absorption spectrophotometer.37 318 children blood samples from the Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center in 2009 were tested.The mean lead level and the rate of lead poisoning were analyzed.Results The mean blood lead level was 47.55 μg /L,and the range of lead concentration was from≥100 μg /L(2.91%),200～249 μg /L(0.26%),250～449 μg /L(0.28%),to450 μg /L(0.035%).The level of lead content in boys(49.37 μg /L) was higher than girls(44.28 μg /L).Conclusion There are a tendency of decreasing in the level of lead in blood of children living in Guangzhou.
Massive symptomatic cystic hygroma confined to the thorax in early childhood

A case of massive symptomatic cystic hygroma confmed to the left hemithorax and mediastinum in a 21-month-old boy is reported. Thesymptoms wereof increasing respiratory distress and cough with fever. The mass surrounded aU of the major vascular and nervous structures of the mediastinum and left hemithorax and was attached to the pericardium. It was excised, and the postoperative course was complicated by prolonged chylothorax and malfunction of the left hemidiaphragm, Seven other reported symptomatic cases of cystic hygroma confmed to the thorax in early childhood are reviewed. The hygromas tend to he large and their care typicaUy is complex and complicated. Hemorrhage into the cysts is a frequent finding and likely contributes to the acute and progressive symptoms.
Osmotic control of plasma vasopressin in the dog.

Seven dogs prepared with carotid loops were used to evaluate the responsiveness of the cerebral osmoreceptors regulating plasma vasopressin concentration (pAVP). Intracarotid and intravenous infusions of hypo- and hypertonic solutions were used to alter cerebral plasma osmolality. Bilateral intracarotid infusion of hypertonic saline (0.90 mmol NaCl kg-1 . min-1 . artery-1) significantly elevated jugular vein plasma osmolality (pOsm) in the first minute (P less than 0.05). Systemic values, determined from saphenous vein samples, were increased after 6 min. After 4 min of infusion, systemic pAVP was significantly increased, attaining a constant level at 6 min. Subsequent experiments with infusions 6 min in duration demonstrated that hypertonic saline infused intracarotidly significantly increased pAVP in a dose-related fashion, whereas similar solutions administered intravenously did not alter pAVP. Hypotonic infusions (intravenous or intracarotid) did not change pAVP consistently. The lack of a depression in pAVP during hypotonic infusions is consistent with the argument that jugular pOsm must be elevated above a threshold to stimulate the release of vasopressin. Linear relationships were demonstrated for jugular pNa+ and pOsm to pAVP employing the threshold model. Cerebral osmoreceptors that regulate plasma vasopressin concentration respond linearly to increasing tonicity above a threshold stimulating the release of vasopressin.
Simultaneous Quantification of Methylated Cytidine and Adenosine in Cellular and Tissue RNA by Nano-Flow Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry Coupled with the Stable Isotope-Dilution Method

The rising interest in understanding the functions, regulation, and maintenance of the epitranscriptome calls for robust and accurate analytical methods for the identification and quantification of post-transcriptionally modified nucleosides in RNA. Monomethylations of cytidine and adenosine are common post-transcriptional modifications in RNA. Herein, we developed an LC–MS/MS/MS coupled with the stable isotope-dilution method for the sensitive and accurate quantifications of 5-methylcytidine (m5C), 2′-O-methylcytidine (Cm), N6-methyladenosine (m6A), and 2′-O-methyladenosine (Am) in RNA isolated from mammalian cells and tissues. Our results showed that the distributions of m5C, Cm and Am are tissue-specific. In addition, the 2′-O-methylated ribonucleosides (Cm and Am) are present at higher levels than the corresponding methylated nucleobase products (m5C and m6A) in total RNA isolated from mouse brain, pancreas, and spleen but not mouse heart. We also found that the levels of m5C, Cm, and Am are significa...
The Effect of Age on Material Properties

Publisher Summary Aging leads to increased skeletal fragility in both men and women, although the rapid changes in men begin about 20 years later than comparable changes in women. Increasing fragility with age is a multifactorial process, resulting from changes in both bone structure and the intrinsic properties of the bone material. The most easily measured age-related structural change is a loss of bone mass, which results in increased cortical bone porosity and loss of trabecular connectivity. In addition to the loss of bone mass, the bone that remains has altered material properties that contribute to increased bone fragility. The most prominent aging-related change to bone material is reduced toughness (increased brittleness) that results from changes to cross-linking of the collagen matrix and the accumulation of microdamage. These aging-related changes make the skeleton less able to withstand the impact forces that are generated when an individual falls, independent of how much bone there is and, therefore, increase the risk of fracture. As the changes to material properties—mineralization, collagen, microdamage—each have differential effects on overall bone mechanics, it is important to explore the nature of these changes as a basis for assessing the reasons for the increased risk of fracture in older adults. It is important to note that the limited amount of data concerning these material properties, as well as biomechanical properties as a whole, make it unclear whether men and women experience similar age-related changes.
Probabilistic analysis of the release of liquefied natural gas (LNG) tenders due to freight-train derailments

Abstract Liquefied natural gas (LNG) has emerged as a possible alternative fuel for freight railroads in the United States, due to the availability of cheap domestic natural gas and continued pursuit of environmental and energy sustainability. A safety concern regarding the deployment of LNG-powered trains is the risk of breaching the LNG tender car (a special type of hazardous materials car that stores fuel for adjacent locomotives) in a train accident. When a train is derailed, an LNG tender car might be derailed or damaged, causing a release and possible fire. This paper describes the first study that focuses on modeling the probability of an LNG tender car release incident due to a freight train derailment on a mainline. The model accounts for a number of factors such as FRA track class, method of operation, annual traffic density level, train length, the point of derailment, accident speed, the position(s) of the LNG tender(s) in a train, and LNG tender car design. The model can be applied to any specified route or network with LNG-fueled trains. The implementation of the model can be undertaken by the railroad industry to develop proactive risk management solutions when using LNG as an alternative railroad fuel.
The EUGS: New Concepts for New Directions in Foreign and Security Policy

There is much in this interview that merits comment, but I will stick to four basic issues: Brexit; the 2003 European Security Strategy (ESS) vs the 2016 European Union Global Strategy (EUGS); stra...
Micro-tethering for in-process stiction mitigation of highly compliant structures

This work demonstrates, for the first time, a post-fabrication technique for creating highly compliant structures inside a hermetic, wafer-scale encapsulation process. By tethering large, free-moving structures during fabrication this method mitigates in-process stiction by selectively detaching devices post-fabrication. The tethers in this work were attached to differential resonant beam accelerometers (DRBA), and were designed for detachment by two methods: Joule heating and shear stressing. Our results show that the device can be successfully detached by both methods, indicated by the device sensitivity increase from ∼100 Hz/g to ∼400 Hz/g.
Site-specific television as urban renewal: Or, how Portland became Portlandia:

This article addresses the rise of what I call ‘site-specific television’, where the dispersion of television production outside traditional centers results in shooting locations that also serve as...
Public Health Service and the School Health Program

(1937). Public Health Service and the School Health Program. The Journal of Health and Physical Education: Vol. 8, No. 8, pp. 455-505.
The essential chloroplast ribosomal protein uL15c interacts with the chloroplast RNA helicase ISE2 and affects intercellular trafficking through plasmodesmata

Chloroplasts retain part of their ancestral genomes and the machinery for expression of those genomes. The nucleus-encoded chloroplast RNA helicase INCREASED SIZE EXCLUSION LIMIT2 (ISE2) is required for chloroplast ribosomal RNA processing and chloro-ribosome assembly. To further elucidate ISE2's role in chloroplast translation, two independent approaches were used to identify its potential protein partners. Both a yeast two-hybrid screen and a pull-down assay identified plastid ribosomal protein L15, uL15c (formerly RPL15), as interacting with ISE2. The interaction was confirmed in vivo by co-immunoprecipitation. Interestingly, we found that rpl15 null mutants do not complete embryogenesis, indicating that RPL15 is an essential gene for autotrophic growth of Arabidopsis thaliana. Arabidopsis and Nicotiana benthamiana plants with reduced expression of RPL15 developed chlorotic leaves, had reduced photosynthetic capacity and exhibited defective chloroplast development. Processing of chloroplast ribosomal RNAs and assembly of ribosomal subunits were disrupted by reduced expression of RPL15. Chloroplast translation was also decreased, reducing accumulation of chloroplast-encoded proteins, in such plants compared to wild-type plants. Notably, knockdown of RPL15 expression increased intercellular trafficking, a phenotype also observed in plants with reduced ISE2 expression. This finding provides further evidence for chloroplast function in modulating intercellular trafficking via plasmodesmata.
Adherence to Universal Travel Screening in the Emergency Department During Epidemic Ebola Virus Disease.

Abstract Background During the 2014 West African Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended that all emergency department (ED) patients undergo travel screening for risk factors of importing EVD. Objectives We sought to determine the overall adherence rate to the recommended travel screening protocol and to identify factors associated with nonadherence to the protocol. Methods We conducted a multicenter, retrospective analysis of adherence to the travel screening program in an academic hospital and three affiliated community hospitals. A regression model identified patient and hospital factors associated with nonadherence. Results Of the 147,062 patients included for analysis, 93.7% (n = 137,834) had travel screenings completed. We identified several characteristics of patients that were most likely to be missed by the screening protocol—patients with low English proficiency, patients who arrive via ambulance or helicopter, and patients with more severe illness or injury based on initial triage acuity. Conclusions These findings should be used to improve adherence to the travel screening protocol for future emerging infectious disease threats.
Makerspaces in Diverse Places: A Comparative Analysis of Distinctive National Discourses Surrounding the Maker Movement and Education in Four Countries

First conceived as spaces stocked with D.I.Y. tools and materials for community members to join together in the activity of making, makerspaces have begun popping up in schools, libraries, universities and museums across the world. The maker mindset summarizes the ideology of the maker movement—a set of values predicated on making, sharing, learning and playing. Through a critical review of research and practices of makerspaces in the U.S., Singapore, China and Ghana, this paper explores the respective national discourses surrounding the maker movement and maker education. By revealing some of the ways that the values have been embraced, reinterpreted, remixed or rejected as the movement has gained global momentum, this paper intends to establish a greater appreciation for the diversity and complexity of the maker movement and maker education in the global context. Ultimately, this complex, multifaceted remixing reveals a deeper understanding of why the movement has been or may be embraced by diverse nations across the globe.
Use of computed tomography volumetric measurements to predict operative techniques in paraesophageal hernia repair

Despite advances in diagnostic imaging capabilities, little information exists concerning the impact of physical dimensions of a paraesophageal hernia (PEH) on intraoperative decision making. The authors hypothesized that computerized volumetric analysis and multidimensional visualization to measure hiatal defect area (HDA) and intrathoracic hernia sac volume (HSV) would correlate to operative findings and required surgical techniques performed. Using volumetric analysis software (Aquarius iNtuition, TeraRecon, Inc), HDA and HSV were measured in PEH patients with preoperative computerized tomography (CT) scans, and used to predict the likelihood of intraoperative variables. Multidimensional rotation of images enabled visualization of the entire hiatal defect in a plane mimicking the surgeon’s view during repair. The intrathoracic hernia sac was outlined producing volume measurements based on a summation of exact dimensions. A total of 213 PEHR patients had preoperative CT imaging, with 14.1% performed emergently. Primary cruroplasty was performed in 89.2%, salvage gastropexy in 10.3%, and diaphragmatic relaxing incisions in 4.2%. Median HDA was 25.7 cm2 (IQR17.8–35.6 cm2); median HSV was 365.0 cm3 (IQR150.0–611.0 cm3). Incremental 5 cm2 increase in HDA was associated with greater likelihood of presenting emergently (OR 1.27; 95%CI 1.124–1.428, p = 0.0001), incarceration (OR 1.27; 1.074–1.499, p = 0.005), gastric volvulus (OR 1.13; 1.021–1.248, p = 0.02), and requiring either relaxing incision (OR 1.43; 1.203–1.709, p < 0.0001) or salvage gastropexy (OR 1.13; 1.001–1.274, p = 0.04). Similarly, HSV increases of 100 cm3 were associated with 23% greater likelihood of emergent repair (CI 1.121–1.353, p < 0.0001), and were more likely to require a relaxing incision (OR 1.18; 1.043–1.339, p = 0.009) or salvage gastropexy (1.19; 1.083–1.312, p = 0.0003). Utilization of CT volumetric measurements is a valuable adjunct in preoperative planning, allowing the surgeon to anticipate complexity of repair and operative approach, as incremental increases in HSV by 100 cm3 and HDA by 5 cm2 are more likely to require complex techniques or bailout procedures and/or present emergently.
Specific Root Exudate Compounds Sensed by Dedicated Chemoreceptors Shape Azospirillum brasilense Chemotaxis in the Rhizosphere.

ABSTRACT Plant roots shape the rhizosphere community by secreting compounds that recruit diverse bacteria. Colonization of various plant roots by the motile alphaproteobacterium Azospirillum brasilense causes increased plant growth, root volume, and crop yield. Bacterial chemotaxis in this and other motile soil bacteria is critical for competitive colonization of the root surfaces. The role of chemotaxis in root surface colonization has previously been established by endpoint analyses of bacterial colonization levels detected a few hours to days after inoculation. More recently, microfluidic devices have been used to study plant-microbe interactions, but these devices are size limited. Here, we use a novel slide-in chamber that allows real-time monitoring of plant-microbe interactions using agriculturally relevant seedlings to characterize how bacterial chemotaxis mediates plant root surface colonization during the association of A. brasilense with Triticum aestivum (wheat) and Medicago sativa (alfalfa) seedlings. We track A. brasilense accumulation in the rhizosphere and on the root surfaces of wheat and alfalfa. A. brasilense motile cells display distinct chemotaxis behaviors in different regions of the roots, including attractant and repellent responses that ultimately drive surface colonization patterns. We also combine these observations with real-time analyses of behaviors of wild-type and mutant strains to link chemotaxis responses to distinct chemicals identified in root exudates to specific chemoreceptors that together explain the chemotactic response of motile cells in different regions of the roots. Furthermore, the bacterial second messenger c-di-GMP modulates these chemotaxis responses. Together, these findings illustrate dynamic bacterial chemotaxis responses to rhizosphere gradients that guide root surface colonization. IMPORTANCE Plant root exudates play critical roles in shaping rhizosphere microbial communities, and the ability of motile bacteria to respond to these gradients mediates competitive colonization of root surfaces. Root exudates are complex chemical mixtures that are spatially and temporally dynamic. Identifying the exact chemical(s) that mediates the recruitment of soil bacteria to specific regions of the roots is thus challenging. Here, we connect patterns of bacterial chemotaxis responses and sensing by chemoreceptors to chemicals found in root exudate gradients and identify key chemical signals that shape root surface colonization in different plants and regions of the roots.
Pharmacologic manipulation of complement receptor 3 prevents dendritic spine loss and cognitive impairment after acute cranial radiation

Abstract Cranial irradiation induces healthy tissue damage that can lead to neurocognitive complications and negatively impact patient quality of life. One type of damage associated with cognitive impairment is loss of neuronal spine density. Based on developmental and disease studies implicating microglia and complement in dendritic spine loss, we hypothesized that irradiation-mediated spine loss is microglial complement receptor 3 (CR3)-dependent, and associated with late-delayed cognitive deficits. Utilizing a model of cranial irradiation (acute, 10 Gy gamma) in C57BL/6 mice we found that male mice demonstrate irradiation-mediated spine loss and cognitive deficits whereas female mice and CR3 knockout mice do not. Moreover, pharmacological blockade of CR3 with leukadherin-1 (LA1) prevented these changes in irradiated male mice. Interestingly, CR3 KO mice showed reduced behavioral task performance suggesting that CR3 is important for normal learning and memory. Improving our understanding of irradiation-mediated mechanisms and sexual dimorphic responses is essential for the identification of novel therapeutics to reduce irradiation-induced cognitive decline and improve patient quality of life.
Relational Knowledge as an Aspect of Local Knowledge

In this paper, I explore a heretofore undiscussed aspect of Hayekian local knowledge, which I call relational knowledge. I develop relational knowledge through the use of Smithian notions of sympathy. Then, I discuss how relational knowledge operates in competition and entrepreneurship. To demonstrate relational knowledge in action, I discuss two forms of interventionism which could disrupt the formation of relational knowledge: industrial planning and school choice.
From reflection to resumes: Alumni perceptions of a multi-term public service program’s connection to career

This paper explores how alumni of a multi-term public service program understand the connection between the program and their career development. While career and professional development is not an explicit goal of the program, our semi-inductive qualitative analysis suggests that alumni see the program as connecting or having the potential to connect to career reflection, boosting their resume, and guiding them down a path toward a public service career or, less frequently, specific jobs.
Challenges and Opportunities for Replication Science in HRI: A Case Study in Human-Robot Trust

As human-robot interaction (HRI) researchers, like all scientists, we must demonstrate the reproducibility of findings-especially across robots. We present a three-study replication effort that illustrates the challenges and opportunities for replication science in HRI. A recent human-robot trust study (Ullman & Malle, 2017) suggested that people "in the loop" with a robot via a simple button press trusted the robot (a Thymio) more than those who observed the robot complete the task autonomously. This intriguing finding was based on a small sample (n = 40) and was therefore greatly underpowered (observed power 1 - β = .35), prompting replication. To test whether the in-the-loop effect generalizes to similar robots, we conducted a conceptual replication (Study 1) using the Create robot. The effect did not replicate, despite a large sample (n = 140) and expected power of .86. This result called for a direct replication (Study 2) using the original Thymio robot. The effect again did not replicate, despite a large sample (n = 200) and expected power of .96. We then conducted an online study (Study 3) with videos of both robots to examine whether different expectations for each robot drove the divergent results, but the hypothesis was disconfirmed (n = 400). However, one finding held across all studies: Participants consistently trusted imagined future robots far less in social than nonsocial use contexts (effect sizes of ds = -0.71, -0.78, and -0.79 in the lab studies; d = -0.38 in the online study).
Evaluating Health, Performance and Behavior in Beef Stocker Calves Administered Two Preventive Health Protocols

Preventive health protocols in beef stocker calves often contain a variety of component combinations including biologics, antimicrobials, and parasiticides. These protocols are employed to decrease detrimental health events, but calf performance and behavior may also be impacted by the effect of product administration methods. Our objective was to compare calf behavior, health, and performance between a minimally invasive protocol (MIN) and a more invasive protocol (MOR) during a backgrounding phase.
One Nation, Two Realities: Dueling Facts in American Democracy: Marietta, Morgan, and David C. Barker. New York, NY: Oxford University Press, 2019. 360 pages. $43.95 (hardcover).

Discussions of alternative facts, fake news, and post-truth abound in American society. Leading up to and following the 2020 U.S. presidential election, news agencies and pundits dove into this top...
Primary Cutaneous B-Cell Lymphoma Complicated by Clonal T-Cell Populations: A Diagnostic Dilemma.

ABSTRACT Cutaneous lymphomas, both B-cell and T-cell, are not uncommonly seen in the skin, but those lymphomas exhibiting clonality for both B-cell and T-cell populations are scarce. Characterization of dual receptor rearrangement as primary composite lymphoma versus primary lymphoma with reactionary response is complex and often a challenge that goes unrecognized. In this study, we report a unique case of T-cell gene rearrangement positivity complicating the diagnosis of primary cutaneous low-grade B-cell lymphoma along with a review of reported cases containing dual receptor rearrangement to identify trends among final diagnostic decisions. As one might guess, for cutaneous lymphomas presenting with clonality for both T-cell and B-cell receptors, diagnosis can be difficult and confusing because the differential is broad. The literature suggests the majority of these cases may be cutaneous composite lymphomas. However, immunohistochemical, clinical, and histomorphologic features must all be assessed for an accurate diagnosis, which is critical for proper prognosis and therapy.
Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors for Advanced Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis.

Results of early trials led to FDA approval of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) for advanced and recurrent/metastatic (R/M) cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC). Updated data from these trials are pending and extent of survival outcomes is undetermined. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of ICIs in advanced CSCC, comprising locally advanced (LA), locoregionally advanced (LR), and recurrent or metastatic (R/M) disease. A systematic review of four databases (PubMed, Scopus, OVID, Cochrane) and meta-analysis of proportions was performed. Phase I and II prospective clinical trials were included. Six trials evaluating cemiplimab (n = 3) and pembrolizumab (n = 3) were eligible for inclusion. Overall survival (OS) was not reached at data-cutoff. Pooled analysis of 392 patients demonstrated that ICIs conferred an objective response rate (ORR) of 42.43% (95% CI 37.53–47.45) and disease control rate (DCR) of 58.05% (95% CI 53.04–62.95). Patients with LR or distant metastatic lesions achieved equivalent ORRs and DCRs. Duration of response (DOR) was not reached in all trials and 92% of all responders continued to have therapeutic response at data cut-off. Tolerability was favorable, with only 27.12% (95% CI 10.89–47.38) of patients experiencing grade ≥ 3 adverse events. Surgical treatment of CSCC remains the guideline-based standard of care for curative intent of local, LA, and LR disease. ICIs demonstrate promising results for LA, LR, and R/M CSCC not amenable to surgery. Endpoints assessing survival and durability of response have not been reached, warranting additional trials exploring neoadjuvant or adjuvant therapy in combination with local treatment.
Peripheral Nerve Surgery for Pain

Abstract There are two approaches to surgery on the peripheral nervous system for pain control: destructive procedures and implants for neuromodulation. This chapter addresses ablative procedures to the peripheral nerves, the sympathetic chain, and dorsal and ventral spinal roots. In general, these procedures are effective more often than not, at least in the acute period. There is a significant chance of pain recurrence, and deafferentation pains may result in the long term. There is limited evidence supporting these procedures, but the presence of factors such as discrete nerve syndrome may be helpful in clinical decision making. The duration, character, and etiology of pain are also important indicators of surgical approach. Well-designed studies on the efficacy of these interventions are necessary. For now, destructive surgery on the peripheral nervous system is most often considered at the end of treatment algorithms for chronic pain, as an adjunct to programs for functional restoration.
SU-E-T-115: Analysis of Patient Specific QA for VMAT by Disease Site and Planning-Delivery System Using the ScandiDos Delta4 Phantom

Purpose: To evaluate patient specific quality assurance (PSQA) for the delivery of volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) by disease site. To compare planning-delivery system (PDS) PSQA pass rates in a dual vendor institution. Methods: PSQA is performed for VMAT plans using a ScandiDos Delta4 phantom. Verification plans are calculated using Varian Eclipse and Elekta Monaco treatment planning systems (TPS) for patients treated using Varian Truebeam and Elekta linear accelerators respectively. Individual arcs are delivered to the Delta4 phantoms and assessed using the gamma index pass criterion(3% Dose Deviation(DD%), 3mm Distance to Agreement(DTA),10% dose threshold and 90% gamma index). Results: A total of 287 VMAT plans and 680 arcs were analyzed. The passing rates for VMAT QA plans were 95% and 98% for head/neck and pelvis/prostate plans respectively, and 100% for chest/abdomen, spine, lung Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT) and Stereotactic Radiosurgery(SRS) plans. Average gamma indices were: (99 ± 2) % for pelvis/prostate, chest/abdomen and lung SBRT plans, (97 ± 4) % for head and neck plans and (98 ± 3) % for spine plans. The average DD% and DTA pass rates ranged from 82% to 90% and 98% to 99% respectively for plans in different disease sites. Paired t-test analysis (two tails) indicated no significant differences in the gamma indices between plans delivered using different PDS; the P values were: 0.08, 0.45, and 0.94 for lung SBRT, head/neck and pelvis/prostate plans respectively. The statistical power for comparing PDS in different disease sites with an alpha of 0.05 is 1. Conclusion: The Gamma indices based on 3% DD%, 3 mm DTA and 10% dose threshold for the VMAT QA plans in all disease sites were well above 90%, suggesting the possibility of using a more stringent PSQA criterion. No significant differences were observed in the QA of VMAT plans delivered using different PDS.
Comprehensive analysis of risk factors for seizures after deep brain stimulation surgery. Clinical article.

Object The aim of this study was to assess risk factors for postoperative seizures after deep brain stimulation (DBS) lead implantation surgery and the impact of such seizures on length of stay and discharge disposition. Methods The authors reviewed a consecutive series of 161 cases involving patients who underwent implantation of 288 electrodes for treatment of movement disorders at a single institution to determine the absolute risk of postoperative seizures, to describe the timing and type of seizures, to identify statistically significant risk factors for seizures, and to determine whether there are possible indications for seizure prophylaxis after DBS lead implantation. The electronic medical records were reviewed to identify demographic details, medical history, operative course, and postoperative outcomes and complications. To evaluate significant associations between potential risk factors and postoperative seizures, both univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. Results Seven (4.3%) o...
Evidence of interstellar Na I structure at scales down to 15 AU in low-density gas

We present high-resolution Hubble Space Telescope/Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph and multiepoch KPNO coude feed observations of multiple interstellar lines toward the binary system HD 32039/40. Comparisons of the Na I profiles observed over a period of 4.25 yr reveal significant temporal variation in the Na I column in at least one component, implying that there is structure at scales on the order of the proper motion (~15-21 AU). Large differences are also observed among multiple components in the profiles of the neutral species between the binary sight lines (5060 AU separation). In addition, significant differences in the S II profile are seen between the stars—the first optical/UV detection of small-scale variations in a dominant ion. Measurements of the C I fine-structure excitation in the variable components suggest that the densities in these components are ~20-200 cm-3, significantly lower than the densities inferred in past H I 21 cm and Na I studies.
Fostering Cross-Functional Skills and Attitudes in Business Administration Students.

This study presents the results of a descriptive survey mailed to 660 deans at schools of business in the U.S. to develop answers to the following research questions: 1. What integrative instructional methods are graduate business educators using at U.S. universities and colleges? 2. What teaching methods are most effective in fostering students’ integrative skills and capabilities? 3. What is the level of difficulty for implementing these methodologies? 4. What are the implications for designing faculty reward systems and developing promotion and tenure criteria? Responses were received from 179 deans (27.12% response rate). Findings reveal that other forms of integrating experience are practiced besides the more traditional capstone course. There is a wide spread agreement that inductive teaching methods are more effective in developing integrative skills and attitudes in students. However, these methods are believed to be the most difficult to implement in terms of time and effort. This suggests that adequate incentives must be in place to encourage faculty to adopt these methods. We hope that those schools contemplating revision and pedagogical development of faculty will find the study’s findings timely and valuable.
Keeping CAI humane in the humanities

Existing courseware in the humanities includes text feedback (such as readability formulas), drill and practice (such as grammar and punctuation drill), and tutorials (including tutoring in composition and poetry interpretation). Sample programs show limitations in hardware and the state of the art in programming and rhetoric can cause problems unless the instructor announces such limitations and uses them as a basis for instruction beyond the capabilities of the courseware. Tutorials should be open-ended and thoughtful in anticipating students' responses. In summary, CAI for the humanities should be designed to respect and build on the students' responses in order to serve their needs.
A sports wheelchair for low-income countries.

Purpose. Appropriate wheelchairs for basic mobility needs are still not commonly available in low-income countries, although several organizations are working toward this goal. After basic mobility is secured it is important to provide more diverse assistive technology to allow people with disabilities to more completely participate in society and live healthy lives. Our goal was to design an affordable sports wheelchair that would allow individuals in low-income countries to participate in basketball.Methods. Design requirements established for the sports wheelchair included: removable anti-tippers, adjustable tension backrest, 24″ wheels, adjustable seat dump, variable camber, 4″ casters, fore-aft axle position, removable bumpers, height adjustable footrest, four wheels, single anti-tipper (pivot), cost less than $125 without wheels, 16″ seat width and backrest height, and nylon upholstery. The wheelchair was designed using 3D modeling, standard materials, and standard tools.Discussion. An affordable wh...
Fluidity in hydrophobic protein regions of synaptic membranes.

Dynamic quenching of native tryptophan fluorescence has been used to assess the fluidity of intact membrane suspensions. The photophysical quenching of tryptophan fluorescence by chloroform occurred by a diffusion-controlled process where one-half of all collisions were effective. The bimolecular rate constant for quenching was directly proportional to the fluidity for a series of solvents. Estimation of the rate constant in the membranes from quenching data indicated that the viscosity of membrane proteins (about 1 cP) was at least an order-of-magnitude lower than the values reported for lipid bilayer regions of nerve membranes.
Application of Photoaffinity Labeling with [11,12-3H]All-trans-Retinoic Acid to Characterization of Rat Liver Microsomal UDP-Glucuronosyltransferase(s) with Activity toward Retinoic Acid☆☆☆

Abstract [3H]All-trans-retinoic acid has been shown to be an effective photoaffinity label for microsomal UDP-glucuronosyltransferases. Labeling of rat liver microsomal proteins with [3H]all-trans-retinoic acid and [32P]5-azido-UDP-glucuronic acid has shown that at least one protein in the 50-56 kDa mass range encompassing the UDP-glucuronosyltransferases photoincorporated both probes. The fraction of solubilized microsomal protein eluted from a UDP-hexanolamine affinity column with 50 μM UDP-glucuronic acid contained two protein bands, both of which photoincorporated [3H]all-trans-retinoic acid and were detected on Western blot by anti-UDP-glucuronosyltransferase antibodies. Enzymatic glucuronidation activity toward atRA in the same fraction was enriched five-fold over that of native or solubilized microsomes.
Determinants of immune complex-mediated glomerulonephritis

We have studied the influence of steric factors on the clinico-pathologic expression of immune complex-mediated glomerular diseases, utilizing ferritin as an exogenous antigen. The tracer was planted in the left kidney either in the subepithelial layer of the glomerular capillary wall or on the endothelium and lamina rara interna. Subepithelial immune complex formation resulted in non-inflammatory injury with heterologous and autologous proteinuric phases (115 +/- 16 mg/24 hrs on day 2; 183 +/- 16 mg/24 hrs on day 9) lasting four to five weeks. The glomerular filtration rate of the experimental left kidney was reduced by 19% at day 3, and was increased by 20% at day 12 over right kidney values. Immune complexes persisted for more than seven weeks in the lamina rara externa. In contrast, immune complex deposition on the endothelium and in the lamina rara interna led to acute transient anuria, with a 38% drop in glomerular filtration rate at one hour, massive platelet accumulation, followed by a strong inflammatory response. Proteinuria did not develop. Functional and structural integrity was restored within 24 hours, with complete clearing of immune deposits. We conclude that the distribution of exogenous antigens within the capillary wall determines the structural and functional expression of immune-mediated glomerular diseases.
Analysis of Substrates of Protein Kinase C Isoforms in Human Breast Cells by the Traceable Kinase Method

A previous report (Biochemistry 46: 2364–2370, 2007) described the application of The Traceable Kinase Method to identify substrates of PKCα in non-transformed human breast MCF-10A cells. Here, a non-radioactive variation of this method compared the phospho-protein profiles of three traceable PKC isoforms (α, δ and ζ) for the purpose of identifying novel, isoform-selective substrates. Each FLAG-tagged traceable kinase was expressed and co-immunoprecipitated along with high affinity substrates. The isolated kinase and its associated substrates were subjected to an in vitro phosphorylation reaction with traceable kinase-specific N6-phenyl-ATP, and the resulting phospho-proteins were analyzed by Western blot with an antibody that recognizes the phosphorylated PKC consensus site. Phospho-protein profiles generated by PKC-α and -δ were similar and differed markedly from that of PKC-ζ. Mass spectrometry of selected bands revealed known PKC substrates and several potential substrates that included the small GTPase-associated effector protein Cdc42 effector protein-4 (CEP4). Of those potential substrates tested, only CEP4 was phosphorylated by pure PKC-α, –δ, and −ζ isoforms in vitro, and by endogenous PKC isoforms in MCF-10A cells treated with DAG-lactone, a membrane permeable PKC activator. Under these conditions, the stoichiometry of CEP4 phosphorylation was 3.2 ± 0.5 (mol phospho-CEP4/mol CEP4). Following knock-down with isoform-specific shRNA-encoding plasmids, phosphorylation of CEP4 was substantially decreased in response to silencing of each of the three isoforms (PKC–α, –δ, or –ζ), whereas testing of kinase-dead mutants supported a role for only PKC-α and –δ in CEP4 phosphorylation. These findings identify CEP4 as a novel intracellular PKC substrate that is phosphorylated by multiple PKC isoforms.
Stereo-dependent inhibition of human platelet function by the optical isomers of trimetoquinol.

Abstract The stereoisomers of trimetoquinol [1-(3',4',5'-trimethoxybenzyl)-6–7-dihydroxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline; TMQ] were shown to have potent and selective inhibitory effects on human platelet function in vitro . the R (+)-isomer was 12.1-, 12.3-, 39.2-, 82.9- and 36.0-fold more effective than the S (−)-isomer as an inhibitor of aggregation induced by arachidonic acid (AA), collagen, the epoxymethano-PGH2 analogs U44069 and U46619, and thromboxane A; (TxA 2 ) respectively. the concentrations of the R (+)-isomer that produced 50 percent inhibition (IC 50 ) of platelet aggregation were 4.2, 4.3, 1.4, 0.14 and 0.64 μM using AA, collagen, U44069, U46619, and TxA 20 as respective inducers. the graphical approximation of an inhibitory Constant ( K i = 0.13 μM) for the effect of TMQ on U46619-induced aggregation suggested that a competitive-like inhibition was operative. In other experiments, platelet aggregation and serotonin release induced by U46619 were inhibited differentially by the TMQ stereoisomers with nearly identical concentration-response curves. In addition, racemicTMQ blocked the secondary phase of platelet aggregation and serotonin release induced by ADP. These data, together with the ability of the TMQ stereoisomers to selectively inhibit TxA 2 -induced aggregation, suggest that TMQ is an inhibitor of endoperoxide or TxA 2 action, e.g. a thromboxane A 2 receptor antagonist.
THE RULE OF FOUR: A SYSTEMATIC APPROACH TO DIAGNOSIS OF COMMON PEDIATRIC HEMATOLOGIC AND ONCOLOGIC DISORDERS

The "Rule of Four" facilitates a rapid and focused approach to the diagnosis of the common hematologic and oncologic disorders encountered in general pediatric practice. This system relies on four recurrent but different clinical entities or laboratory tests relevant to the diagnosis of children with anemia, excessive bleeding or clotting, and common malignancies. For each disorder, there is a discussion of a variety of four lab tests or factors pertinent to a differential diagnosis.
A comparative study using illustrations, brainstorming, and questions as advance organizers in intermediate college german conversation classes

This research compared student performance in listening comprehension when three advance organizers plus video were used as opposed to when neither advance organizers nor video- and audiotapes were used. The participants were 50 English-speaking college students enrolled in three sections of intermediate German conversation. All three sections used print materials as the primary source for conversation topics, small group activities, and vocabulary development. Students in the experimental group used illustrations, brainstorming, and questions as advance organizers plus audio- and videotapes to gain access to the topic and to interact with each other. Findings indicated that students in the experimental group developed superior listening skills. These results may be interpreted as evidence that multiple advance organizers plus audio and video can enhance listening comprehension at the intermediate level of German.
Pre- and Posttherapy Assessment of Intestinal Soluble Mediators in IBD: Where We Stand and Future Perspectives

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by an abnormal immune response against food or bacterial antigens in genetically predisposed individuals. Several factors of innate and adaptive immune system take part in the inflammatory process, probably actively contributing in endoscopic and histological healing at molecular level. Although it is difficult to discriminate whether they are primary factors in determining these events or they are secondarily involved, it would be interesting to have a clear map of those factors in order to have a restricted number of potentially “good candidates” for mucosal healing. The present review will present a class of these factors and their modulation in course of therapy, starting from pathogenic studies involving several treatments associated with good clinical outcomes. This approach is meant to help in the difficult task of identifying “good candidates” for healing signatures, which could also be possible new therapeutic targets for clinical management of IBD patients.
Immune changes in patients with advanced breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy with taxanes

Besides cytotoxicity, taxanes induce other biological effects, especially in the immune system. Taxanes have demonstrated immunostimulatory effects against neoplasms, supporting the idea that these agents suppress cancer through several mechanisms and not solely through inhibiting cell division. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effect of taxanes (paclitaxel and docetaxel) and investigate their ability in alterating important immunological parameters in breast cancer patients. Thirty women with advanced breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy were randomly assigned into two groups treated with either single agent Paclitaxel or Docetaxel. Sera from patients before the first and after the last treatment cycle and from normal donors were assayed by ELISA for IL-2, IL-1beta, IFN-gamma, GM-CSF, IL-6, TNF-alpha, and PGE2 levels. In these same blood samples, NK and LAK cell activity was tested in the total PBMC population against NK-sensitive K562 tumour targets, respectively, and autologous mixed lymphocyte reaction was tested by (3)H-thymidine proliferation assays. All patients in both groups responded to therapy. Significant differences were observed in the following immune parameters between the control group of healthy blood donors and the pretreatment values of both taxane groups; IL-2, GM-CSF, IFN-gamma levels and NK and LAK cell cytotoxicity were depressed, whereas TNF-alpha and IL-6 levels were raised in breast cancer patients before treatment compared to controls. There were no significant differences between the two treatment groups regarding any of the parameters studied. Both drugs led to increases in MLR values, NK and LAK cell cytotoxicity, and IL-6, GM-CSF, IFN-gamma levels, and decreases for IL-1, TNF, and PGE2 levels. The percentage of these differences was greater for docetaxel in comparison to paclitaxel (P<0.0001). More specifically, docetaxel demonstrated a more pronounced effect on enhancing MLR, NK, LAK activity and IFN-gamma, IL-2, IL-6, and GM-CSF levels, as well as caused more potent reduction in IL-1 and TNF-alpha levels when compared to paclitaxel. The present study indicates that patients responded to treatment of advanced breast cancer with single-agent paclitaxel or docetaxel leads to an increase in serum IFN-gamma, IL-2, IL-6, GM-CSF cytokine levels and enhancement of PBMC NK and LAK cell activity, while they both lead to a decrease of acute phase serum cytokine levels of IL-1 and TNF-alpha. Moreover, the effects of docetaxel are in all the above parameters more pronounced than those of paclitaxel.
A mutation in NPAS3 segregates with mental illness in a small family

Neuronal PAS domain protein 3 (NPAS3) is a member of the basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) family of transcription factors. It contains a bHLH domain involved in DNA binding, a PAS domain (acronym derived from the three initial proteins in which this motif was found) that alters the affinity for binding-partners in response to cellular signaling, and a transcriptional activation domain.1 bHLH transcription factors regulate multiple processes, including neurogenesis, metabolism and circadian rhythms.2, 3 Population studies have associated common genetic variations of NPAS3 with schizophrenia,4 bipolar disorder5 and antipsychotic efficacy.6 Two nonsynonymous substitutions (A522P and A742V) have been previously associated with schizophrenia,7 and a balanced (9:14) translocation that disrupts NPAS3 was detected in a small family in which the translocation segregates with schizophrenia.8 Like the effect of the 1:11 translocation on DISC1, the translocation through NPAS3 may result in a loss of gene and protein expression, or it could produce a truncated NPAS3 protein with a dominant negative effect. Both possibilities imply a loss of NPAS3 function.
Uncover, discover and the growth of ideas

Scientists can be one-legged. Busy at work. Heads bowed, minds focused, captivated by today's technologies. A self-imposed exile. Digging holes, building silos. No breadth of vision. Shortsighted, without insight. No sense of history. The archaic past, obsolete ancestors. But one leg to stand on, one foot to put forward. A …