cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
MR and CT imaging patterns in post-varicella encephalitis

The aim of the investigation was to determine the patterns of cerebral involvement on computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in post-varicella encephalitis. Four children between the ages of 2 and 11 years presented over a 5-year period with a diagnosis of post-varicella encephalitis. Their imaging studies and clinical data were reviewed retro-spectively. The medical histories of all four children were noncontributory except for recent bouts of chickenpox 1 week to 3 months prior to hospitalization. Three children presented with parkinsonian manifestations. Bilateral, symmetric hypodense, nonenhancing basal ganglia lesions were found on CT. These areas showed nonenhancing low signal intensity on T1-weighted images and high signal intensity on T2-weighted images on MR. One child presented with diffuse, multiple gray and white matter lesions of similar imaging characteristics; some lesions, however, did enhance. This child had no gait disturbances. Post-varicella encephalitis can produce two patterns of dramatic CT and MR findings. With an appropriate history and clinical findings, varicella as a cause of bilateral basal ganglia or diffuse cerebral lesions can be differentiated from other possible etiologies which include trauma, anoxia, metabolic disorders and demyelinating diseases.
Optical tree topologies

Abstract Fiber optic tree topologies are emerging as attractive candidates for Passive Optical Network (PON) implementations, next to the more traditional star and bus topologies. In this paper, we first address the “physical” properties of the optical tree topology (like layout cost, geographical coverage, power budget and fault tolerance) and compare them to similar properties in buses and stars. Then, we discuss the access schemes which can be implemented on a tree. We discuss the introduction of Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) in the PON and describe single-hop and multi-hop “virtual” topologies which can be supported. Finally, we present MONET, a Multilevel Optical Network architecture which can be efficiently implemented on a tree topology.
Environmental scanning electron microscopy of marine aggregates

SUMMARY Marine aggregates were examined for the first time in the hydrated state using an environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM). Sample preparation consisted of fixation followed by rinsing with distilled water to remove excess salts and fixative. Aggregates were continuously observed at resolutions comparable to conventional scanning electron microscopy through stages of hydration, from completely immersed to desiccated. Because no metallic coating is required, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDXS) can be used to analyse rapidly constituent elements occurring at low concentrations with no spectral interference. Subtle differences in mineral particles were seen in both EDXS spectra and in direct observation of relative hydration, reflecting apparent differences in mineralogy. ESEM enabled examination of effects of desiccation and rehydration on individual particles composed primarily of hydrated polymer and eliminated dehydration artefacts in delicate organisms.
Breast Cancer Imaging With Radiolabeled Antibodies

Over the past 2 decades, numerous anticancer antibodies against different molecular targets and labeled with different gamma-emitting radionuclides have been studied in human tumor xenografts and in clinical trials. In breast cancer, these molecular targets have included principally tumor-associated antigens, such as carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and the polymorphic epithelial mucin antigen, MUC1, and more recently the growth factor receptors, EGF-R and HER2/neu. No antibody-based agent has yet been approved for clinical use in the diagnosis of mammary carcinoma, because few trials have addressed the issue of clinical use of these imaging agents in the management of breast cancer patients. Recently, the CEA antibody Fab' fragment approved for colorectal cancer detection, Arcitumomab (CEA-Scan, [Immunomedics, Morris Plains, NJ]), has been found to image both palpable and nonpalpable breast lesions that were suspicious on screening mammograms. Results to date indicate that Arcitumomab can complement mammography by providing a high specificity and positive predictive value, thus indicating when a patient with an abnormal mammogram may proceed directly to definitive surgery without an intermediate diagnostic biopsy. Breast cancer immunoscintigraphy holds promise for advancing toward immunoPET, which should combine the specificity of antibodies with the high sensitivity and resolution of PET. It is also the foundation of breast cancer radioimmunotherapy with humanized antibodies against CEA and MUC1, as well as other immunotherapy strategies.
Vascular signaling through G protein-coupled receptors: new concepts.

Purpose of review G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling machinery can serve as a direct target of reactive oxygen species (ROS), including superoxide (O2-), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) as well as reactive nitrogen species, including nitric oxide and S-nitrosothiols (SNOs). Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase is one of the major sources of O2- produced following GPCR activation in vasculature. Nitric oxide is generated by three isoforms of nitric oxide synthase (NOS). This review will summarize the recent progress on GPCR signaling modulation by NADPH oxidase-derived ROS and NOS-derived SNOs. Recent findings ROS and reactive nitrogen species play an important role in GPCR signaling involved in various physiological functions such as cell growth, migration, gene expression as well as pathophysiologies. NADPH oxidase-derived ROS activate specific redox signaling events involved in cardiovascular diseases. SNOs can modulate GPCR signaling and internalization through S-nitrosylation of the scaffolding protein beta-arrestin, the GPCR kinases, and dynamin, a guanosine triphosphatase responsible for endocytosis. Summary NADPH oxidase-derived ROS and NOS-derived SNOs are now recognized as important second messengers to regulate GPCR signaling, thereby contributing to various biological and pathophysiological functions. Understanding the molecular mechanism of how ROS, nitric oxide, and SNOs might modulate GPCR signaling is essential for development of novel therapeutic approaches.
Therapeutic Options for the Management of Oropharyngeal and Esophageal Candidiasis in HIV/AIDS Patients

Mucocutaneous candidiasis is frequently one of the first signs of HIV infection. Over 90% of patients with AIDS will develop oropharyngeal candidiasis at some time during their illness. Although numerous antifungal agents are available, azoles, both topical (clotrimazole) and systemic (fluconazole, itraconazole), have replaced older topical antifungals (gentian violet and nystatin) in the management of oropharyngeal candidiasis in these patients. The systemic azoles, itraconazole and fluconazole, are generally safe and effective agents in HIV-infected patients with oropharyngeal candidiasis. A concern in these patients is clinical relapse, which appears to be dependent on degree of immunosuppression and is more common following clotrimazole and ketoconazole than following fluconazole or itraconazole. Candida esophagitis is also of concern, since it occurs in more than 10% of patients with AIDS. Fluconazole is an integral part of the management of mucosal candidiasis. A cyclodextrin oral solution formulation of itraconazole has clinical response rates similar to fluconazole and is an effective alternative. In patients with fluconazole-refractory mucosal candidiasis, treatment options include itraconazole, amphotericin B oral suspension, and parenteral amphotericin B.
Carcinoid tumor of the extrahepatic bile ducts: Sonographic, cholangiographic, and MDCT features

Abstract Carcinoid tumors of the biliary tree are exceedingly rare. To the best of our knowledge, this is the fourth reported case of a biliary carcinoid in the radiological literature. We herein report on a 50-year-old female with a history of breast cancer who presented with epigastric pain. Laboratory evaluation revealed results consistent with obstructive jaundice. Right upper quadrant ultrasound and multidetector-row CT scan showed an intraductal and well-defined tumor in the porta hepatis with dilated intrahepatic bile ducts. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiography showed the intraluminal growth of the tumor was arising from the right hepatic duct. Familiarity with the imaging appearances may prompt early recognition of biliary carcinoids and allow differentiation from other more common biliary neoplasms.
Evaluation and management of hypertension in childhood

Hypertension, a relatively uncommon problem in childhood except in certain groups of children, is an important cardiovascular risk factor that can have significant health implications, especially the tendency for an elevated blood pressure in childhood to predict the development of adult hypertension. Common causes of childhood hypertension include renal and cardiac disease, as well as essential hypertension in adolescents. Given these factors, it is usually possible to evaluate the hypertensive child in a focused manner that should reveal not only the underlying cause of hypertension, but also its severity. Treatment should incorporate non-pharmacologic approaches as well as antihypertensive medications, and should take into account other cardiovascular risk factors such as hyperlipidemia. This review highlights these and other important issues in the evaluation and management of hypertensive children, and provides practical guidance to the practitioner involved in caring for such patients.
Monotonicity of Linear Separability Under Translation

A set of n pattern vectors are given in d-space and classified arbitrarily into two sets. The sets of patterns are said to be linearly separable if there exists a hyperplane that separates them. We ask whether translation of one of these sets in an arbitrary direction helps separability. Sometimes yes and sometimes no, but yes on the average. The average is taken over all classifications of the patterns into two sets. In fact, we prove that the probability of separability increases as the translation increases. Thus, we conclude that if points are drawn equiprobably from densities fo(x) and f1(x) = fo(x + tw) then the probability of linear separability is minimum at t = 0 and increases with t for t > 0.
Distant bone metastasis from supraglottic squamous cell carcinoma

Supraglottic squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) occurs above the true vocal folds. Glottic cancers are more common than supraglottic cancers.1 Hematogenous distant metastasis of supraglottic SCC is rare.2 Our patient was a 66-year-old male with a history of heavy drinking, and he is a current smoker with a …
The Impact of the Perceived Purpose of Electronic Performance Monitoring on an Array of Attitudinal Variables.

As a form of performance monitoring, electronic performance monitoring (EPM) offers the opportunity for unobtrusive and continuous performance data gathering. These strengths can also make EPM stressful and threatening. Many features of performance evaluation systems, including the organizational purposes for which they are used, can affect employee attitudes. We explored the relationships among the perceived purpose of EPM and an array of job attitudes, including fairness, job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and felt obligation to reciprocate. Results indicate that when monitoring is viewed as developmental, it is judged as fairer than when it is perceived as a deterrent to future behavior and is also associated with higher levels of job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and felt obligation. These findings suggest that employees will respond more positively to EPM when managers and human resource development professionals carefully frame the reasons for monitoring and feedback in constructive, developmental terms.
Rate of maturation of the hippocampus and the developmental progression of children's performance on the delayed non-matching to sample and visual paired comparison tasks.

Although it has been widely speculated that the hippocampus, and the type of memory dependent upon the hippocampus, develops late in primates just as it does in rats (e.g., Nadel & Zola-Morgan, 1984; Bachevalier & Mishkin, 1984; Schacter & Moscovitch, 1984), the evidence to date would not seem to support this. Instead, there is behavioral evidence of very early recognition memory and anatomical evidence of very early hippocampal maturation in human and non-human primates. It is true, however, that the standard delayed non-matching to sample task, which requires recognition memory, is not mastered until quite late. The reason for this late mastery would appear to be the late emergence of some other ability required for the task, not recognition memory. The candidates for what that ability might be are (1) the capacity to plan and execute an indirect, two-action sequence, (2) the capacity to understand that the object stands for the reward, but is not the reward itself, (3) the ability to deduce an abstract rule, (4) the ability to make explicit on testing what can be shown implicitly during play, (5) the ability to quickly encode visual stimuli (speed of encoding), and (6) the ability to resist interference. Only empirical work will enable us to decide among these candidate abilities; that work is currently underway.
Temporal fine structure: the missing component in speech processing algorithms

Abstract A speech processing algorithm, which encodes the temporal fine structure of sound by extracting slowly varying frequency modulations, was shown to improve speech perception in noise, talker identification, melody recognition, and tonal language recognition.
Transplantation in Jehovah’s witness population: bloodless surgery allows options

T t n the not-so-distant past, encountering the words “bloodless” and “liver transplant” in the same entence was rare. Also uncommon was seeing liver transplant” and “Jehovah’s Witness” toether—unless in reference to the refusal of a ehovah’s Witness (JW) to allow surgery involving lood transfusions. But today, thanks to advanced echnology and innovative physicians, “bloodless iver transplant” and “Jehovah’s Witness” are beoming associated more frequently. Countless ives have been saved because of advances in the loodless-transfusion process, and the medical alernatives for JWs have broadened amazingly ithin the past several years. In addition to the JWs, who will not have transusions because of religious beliefs, there is a much maller number of other patients who cannot have ransfusions (eg, those with antibodies). Also, ome patients fear the possible transmission of iseases via the transfusion process. Surgery, by its ery nature, involves dealing with the patient’s lood system. Surgical transplants, in turn, can esult in higher blood loss than surgery with less ntricate procedures. And liver transplants are mong the most costly of all in terms of lost blood. ontributing to the difficulty and high risk inolved in liver-transplant operations is the fact that ost patients eligible for a transplant are in exremely poor health by the time surgery begins ecause they have waited so long for a donor. The peration is a complex, time-consuming procedure
Inhibition of Proliferation by Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Chemoresistant Pancreatic Cancer Cells

Pancreatic cancer-gemcitabine (GEM) chemoresistance has been demonstrated to be associated with enhanced NF-kB activation and antiapoptotic protein synthesis. The well-known capacity of omega-3 fatty acids (n-3 FAs) to inhibit NF-kB activation and promote cellular apoptosis has the potential to restore or facilitate gemcitabine chemosensitivity. Four pancreatic cancer cell lines (MIA PaCa-2, BxPC-3, PANC-1, and L3.6), each with distinct basal NF-kB and differing GEM sensitivity profiles, were administered: 100 uM of (1) n-3FA, (2) n-6FA, (3) GEM, (4) n-3FA + GEM, or (5) n-6FA + GEM for 24 and 48 hours. Proliferation was assessed using the WST-1 assay. To define the mechanism(s) of altered proliferation, electron mobility shift assay for NF-kB activity, western blots of phoshoStat3, phosphoIκB, and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) cleavage were performed in the MIA PaCa-2 cell line. All cell lines demonstrated a time/dose-dependent inhibition of proliferation in response to n-3FA. For MIA PaCa-2 cells, n-3FA and n-3FA + GEM treatment resulted in reduction of I-kB phosphorylation and NF-kB activation when compared with n-6FA control. n-3FA and combination treatment also significantly decreased Stat3 phosphorylation, whereas GEM alone had no effect. n-3FAs and n-3FA + GEM groups demonstrated increased PARP cleavage, mirroring NF-kB activity and Stat3 phosphorylation. n-3 FA treatment is specifically associated with inhibition of proliferation in these four pancreatic cell lines irrespective of varied gemcitabine resistance. An experimental paradigm to screen for potential contributory mechanism(s) in altered pancreatic cancer cellular proliferation was defined, and using this approach the co-administration of n-3 FA with GEM inhibited GEM-induced NF-kB activation and restored apoptosis in the MIA PaCa-2 cell-line.
What animal models have taught us about the treatment of acute stroke and brain protection.

Stroke research has progressed in leaps and bounds in the past decades. A driving force is the increasing availability of new research tools in this field (eg, animal stroke models). Animal stroke models have been extensively applied to advance our understanding of the mechanisms of ischemic brain injury and to develop novel therapeutic strategies for reducing brain damage after a stroke. Animal stroke models have been useful in characterizing the molecular cascades of injury processes. These “injury pathways” are also the targets of therapeutic interventions. The major achievements made in the past 2 decades applying animal stroke models include 1) the identification of the mediator role of excitotoxin and oxygen free radicals in ischemic brain injury; 2) the confirmation of apoptosis as a major mechanism of ischemic cell death; 3) the characterization of postischemic gene expression; 4) the delineation of postischemic inflammatory reaction; 5) the application of transgenic mice to confirm the roles of purported mediators in ischemic brain injury; 6) development of novel magnetic resonance imaging sequences for early noninvasive detection of ischemic brain lesions; and, 7) the development of novel therapeutic strategies based on preclinical findings derived from animal stroke models.
The interplay between nanostructured carbon-grafted chitosan scaffolds and protein adsorption on the cellular response of osteoblasts: structure-function property relationship.

Abstract The rapid adsorption of proteins occurs during the early stages of biomedical device implantation into physiological systems. In this regard, the adsorption of proteins is a strong function of the nature of a biomedical device, which ultimately governs the biological functions. The objective of this study was to elucidate the interplay between nanostructured carbon-modified (graphene oxide and single-walled carbon nanohorn) chitosan scaffolds and consequent protein adsorption and biological function (osteoblast function). We compare and contrast the footprint of protein adsorption on unmodified chitosan and nanostructured carbon-modified chitosan. A comparative analysis of cell–substrate interactions using an osteoblast cell line (MC3T3-E1) implied that biological functions were significantly enhanced in the presence of nanostructured carbon, compared with unmodified chitosan. The difference in their respective behaviors is related to the degree and topography of protein adsorption on the scaffolds. Furthermore, there was a synergistic effect of nanostructured carbon and protein adsorption in terms of favorably modulating biological functions, including cell attachment, proliferation and viability, with the effect being greater on nanostructured carbon-modified scaffolds. The study also underscores that protein adsorption is favored in nanostructured carbon-modified scaffolds such that bioactivity and biological function are promoted.
Design of an intelligent computer psychodiagnostician.

A computer psychodiagnostician with limited learning capability is described. It is an interactive system which poses questions to persons who have observed psychiatric patients. It prints out the relative probabilities that the described patient has one of twenty diagnoses as well as the degree of overall psychopathology. Several practical and theoretical uses of the system are discussed.
Effect of melatonin on taxane-induced neuropathy in breast cancer patients

19640 Background: Neurotoxicity caused by taxane chemotherapies(CT) can be dose limiting and can cause a decrease in quality of life. Melatonin has been evaluated for its use in decreasing adverse ...
A Multiphase Multipath Technique With Digital Phase Shifters for Harmonic Distortion Cancellation

Nonlinearities in transmitter circuits, such as power amplifiers, cause degradation in system performance and adjacent-channel spectral growth interference. Polyphase multipath is considered among the techniques that can compensate the nonlinearities, creating a clean output spectrum. However, the polyphase technique requires analog phase shifters that consume considerable power. Aiming at reducing the power consumption, this brief presents a novel multiphase multipath technique with digital phase shifters. The technique is capable of canceling most of the harmonic and intermodulation products produced by a current-output nonlinear circuit to achieve the required linearity. The proposed system has advantages over existing polyphase techniques in power consumption, accuracy, and flexibility. However, it lacks image rejection and local oscillator harmonic cancellation. Detailed analyses and simulations of the new technique are provided to show the effectiveness of the harmonic distortion cancellation.
Magnetic permeability measurements in GMR multilayers with extra-thick magnetic layers

Initial permeability and transverse bias permeability measurements have been made on [NiFeCo(t)/Cu(23 /spl Aring/)]16 multilayers for different magnetic layer thicknesses(t) in the as-deposited state and after an annealing treatment. The initial permeability was found to be independent of frequency up to at least 100 MHz and to increase with magnetic layer thickness. The transverse bias permeability is used to calculate the effective uniaxial anisotropy and the bilinear and biquadratic exchange fields. The thicker multilayers are found to be ferromagnetically coupled in the as-deposited state and upon annealing a transition occurs producing antiferromagnetically coupled magnetic layers.
Normal human aging: factors contributing to cerebral atrophy

Abstract Factors that accelerate rates of `normal' age-related cerebral atrophic and degenerative changes are important because they may predispose to cognitive declines. To determine characteristic patterns of normal aging, risk factors were correlated with serial neurological–neuropsychological examinations, CT measures of progressive cerebral atrophy, local tissue hypodensities, or perfusional declines. Both cross-sectional and longitudinal designs were utilized. Ninety-four cognitively and neurologically normal aging volunteers, 15 with a history of transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), were followed for mean intervals of 3.0±2.1 years. Results indicated that: (1) after age 60, cerebral atrophy, polio- and leuko-araiosis doubled and cerebral perfusion decreased, with marked individual variations; (2) risk factors independently accelerating cerebral atrophy and cortico-subcortical perfusional declines included TIAs, hypertension, smoking, hyperlipidemia, excessive alcohol consumption and male gender; (3) progressive leuko-araiosis correlated directly with cortical atrophy and cortical perfusional declines. We posit that: (1) cerebral atrophy and degenerative changes result from neuronal shrinkage and/or loss, which are accelerated by TIAs, hypertension, smoking, hyperlipidemia, excessive alcohol consumption and male gender; (2) accelerated cerebral atrophic and degenerative changes identified by neuroimaging should be considered as markers for depleted neuronal synaptic reserves, which predispose to cognitive declines. Interventions available for controlling some of these risk factors include control of TIAs, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia, as well as tobacco and alcohol withdrawal.
Time scales of large volume silicic magma systems: Sr isotopic systematics of phenocrysts and glass from the Bishop Tuff, Long Valley, California

The initial Sr isotopic compositions of glass and mineral separates from the 0.74 Ma Bishop Tuff ashflow in eastern California were determined to investigate the time scales of magmatic processes in a large silicic system. It was found that there is substantial isotopic heterogeneity, both between eruptive units and between glass and phenocryst phases of individual units. The frist-erupted, lower temperature units generally have higher initial 87Sr/86Sr than later crupted, higher temperature units. Within each unit, feldspar phenocrysts have the lowest 87Sr/86Sr, associated glass has higher 87Sr/86Sr, and biotite phenocrysts have the highest 87Sr/86Sr. These isotopic differences were produced by processes in the magma chamber and not by post-eruptive alteration. Two samples were similar Fe−Ti oxide temperatures but from widely separated localities have nearly identifical Sr isotopic characteristics, indicating the existence of compositionally uniform layers of substantial volume within the chamber. Trace element data indicate that the feldspars crystallized from a liquid represented by the associated glass, and that the feldspar-glass pairs are not accidental. The rhyolitic liquids of the Bishoptuff magma chamber apparently experienced increasing 87Sr/86Sr at a rate too fast for feldspar phenocrysts to remain in isotopic equilibrium. The increasing 87Sr/86Sr is caused primarily by radioactive decay of 87Rb in the high-Rb/Sr liquids and not primarily by assimilation of radiogenic wall-rock material. A self-consistent model can be constructed to account for all of the isotopic data except for those on biotite phenocrysts. The time scale for evolution of the system is bounded on the high side at about 500 ky by observations made on precaldera lavas, and on the low side at approximately 300 ky by the time necessary to establish homogeneous layers in an actively differentiating chamber. The deduced time scale is consistent with model Rb−Sr ages, which date the differentiation of low temperature liquids from higher temperature liquids, and is compatible with the observed isotopic disequilibrium between feldspars and glass because of the low diffusivity of Sr in fieldspars ( 3x105 years. The silicic-magma production rate within the Bishop Tuff magma chamber is estimated to be 10-3km3/y. The growth rate of alkali feldspar is estimated to be about 10-14 cm/s based on the Sr isotopic difference between sanidine and glass of the lower Bishop Tuff. The biotite population is inferred to be partially (>50 ppm) xenocrystic, the xenocrysts being introduced to the chamber less than one year prior to eruption.
Temporal Discounting When the Choice Is Between Two Delayed Rewards.

The present experiments extend the temporal discounting paradigm from choice between an immediate and a delayed reward to choice between 2 delayed rewards: a smaller amount of money available sooner and a larger amount available later. Across different amounts and delays, the data were consistently well described by a hyperbola-like discounting function, and the degree of discounting decreased systematically as the delay to the sooner reward increased. Three theoretical models (the elimination-by-aspects, present-value comparison, and common-aspect attenuation hypotheses) were evaluated. The best account of the data was provided by the common-aspect attenuation hypothesis, according to which the common aspect of the choice alternatives (i.e., the time until the sooner reward is available) receives less weight in the decision-making process.
The effect of subtitles on listeners' perceptions of expressivity

The purpose of this study was to determine what effect, if any, subtitles would have on listeners’ perceptions of expressivity in an operatic performance. Specifically, this study addressed the fol...
Increase in atrial natriuretic factor in the lungs, heart, and circulatory system owing to ozone.

Ozone can cause pulmonary edema and simultaneously decrease blood pressure. Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) may mediate both of these effects in that it increases pulmonary capillary permeability resulting in edema formation and vasodilates the vascular system. The present inves tigation was designed to test directly the effect of ozone on the content of ANF in the lungs, heart, and the circulatory system. Ozone (0.5 ppm) exposure for 8 h increased ANF content in the lungs fourfold (13.33±2.7 ng/g tissue) in six Fischer 344 rats compared with ANF content (3.03±0.2 ng/g tissue) in six Fischer 344 rats exposed only to room air. Ozone increased ANF content in the heart fivefold in the same animals from 28±39.6 ng/g tissue in the rats exposed to room air to 1,473±234.8 ng/g tissue in those exposed to ozone. Ozone also doubled the concentration of ANF in the circulatory system. This study dem?nstrates that ozone does increase ANF in the lungs, heart, and circulatory system, suggesting that ANF may mediate the decreased blood pressure and pulmonary edema observed with ozone exposure.
Scribo Ergo Cogito: Reflexivity through Writing

This article builds on the concept of “writing as thinking” by describing an in-class, cumulative, peer-writing exercise that helps foster reflexivity. Reflexivity is understood as a process of seeing and a process of being. To be reflexive means that we are fully conscious of the lenses through which we view the world. It suggests that we understand both our situationality and our positionality. In this sense, reflexivity is an essential component of the sociological imagination. Three themes of reflexivity commonly arise from this exercise: developing reflexivity, reinforcing reflexivity, and resisting reflexivity. These themes are discussed and illustrated with full-length excerpts of students’ work.
Fatty Acids Regulate Endothelial Lipase and Inflammatory Markers in Macrophages and in Mouse Aorta: A Role for PPARγ

Objective—Macrophage endothelial lipase (EL) is associated with increased atherosclerosis and inflammation. Because of their anti-inflammatory properties we hypothesized that n-3 fatty acids, in contrast to saturated fatty acids, would lower macrophages and arterial EL and inflammatory markers. Methods and Results—Murine J774 and peritoneal macrophages were incubated with eicosapentaenoic acid or palmitic acid in the presence or absence of lipopolysaccaride (LPS). LPS increased EL mRNA and protein. Palmitic acid alone or with LPS dose-dependently increased EL mRNA and protein. In contrast, eicosapentaenoic acid dose-dependently abrogated effects of LPS or palmitic acid on increasing EL expression. EL expression closely linked to peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (PPAR)γ expression. Eicosapentaenoic acid blocked rosiglitazone (a PPARγ agonist)-mediated EL activation and GW9662 (a PPARγ antagonist)-blocked palmitic acid-mediated EL stimulation. Eicosapentaenoic acid alone or with LPS blunted LPS-me...
Comparison of continuous left ventricular volumes by transthoracic two- dimensional digital echo quantification with simultaneous conductance catheter measurements in patients with cardiac diseases

Abstract Automated border detection enables real-time tracking of left ventricular (LV) volume by 2-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography. This technique has not been previously compared with simultaneously measured continuous LV volumes at rest or during transients in humans. We performed 18 studies in 16 patients (age 50 ± 15 years, range 22 to 70; ejection fraction 63 ± 20%, range 15% to 85%) in which continuous LV volumes acquired by digital echo quantification (DEQ) were compared with simultaneous conductance catheter volume obtained by cardiac catheterization. Both volume signals were calibrated by thermodilution-derived cardiac output and ventriculogram-derived ejection fraction. Volume traces acquired at rest were averaged to generate a comparison cycle. The averaged volume waveforms acquired by DEQ and by conductance catheter were similar during all phases of the cardiac cycle and significantly correlated (conductance catheter = slope·DEQ + intercept, slope = 0.94 ± 0.09, intercept = 5 ± 8 ml, r2 = 0.86 ± 0.12, all p
OPTICAL IMAGING AND CONTROL OF GENETICALLY DESIGNATED NEURONS IN FUNCTIONING CIRCUITS

Proteins with engineered sensitivities to light are infiltrating the biological mechanisms by which neurons generate and detect electrochemical signals. Encoded in DNA and active only in genetically specified target cells, these proteins provide selective optical interfaces for observing and controlling signaling by defined groups of neurons in functioning circuits, in vitro and in vivo. Light-emitting sensors of neuronal activity (reporting calcium increase, neurotransmitter release, or membrane depolarization) have begun to reveal how information is represented by neuronal assemblies, and how these representations are transformed during the computations that inform behavior. Light-driven actuators control the electrical activities of central neurons in freely moving animals and establish causal connections between the activation of specific neurons and the expression of particular behaviors. Anchored within mathematical systems and control theory, the combination of finely resolved optical field sensing and finely resolved optical field actuation will open new dimensions for the analysis of the connectivity, dynamics, and plasticity of neuronal circuits, and perhaps even for replacing lost--or designing novel--functionalities.
A novel mycobacterial Hsp70-containing fusion protein targeting mesothelin augments antitumor immunity and prolongs survival in murine models of ovarian cancer and mesothelioma

Background Although dendritic cell (DC) vaccines are considered to be promising treatments for advanced cancer, their production and administration is costly and labor-intensive. We developed a novel immunotherapeutic agent that links a single-chain antibody variable fragment (scFv) targeting mesothelin (MSLN), which is overexpressed on ovarian cancer and mesothelioma cells, to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70), which is a potent immune activator that stimulates monocytes and DCs, enhances DC aggregation and maturation and improves cross-priming of T cells mediated by DCs.
Effects of cross-tying horses during 24 h of road transport.

Summary Transportation stress has been implicated as a predisposing factor to respiratory disease in horses. Cross-tying horses individually in stalls is common practice for transporting show and racehorses, but horses also travel in small groups or individually without being restricted by tying. The objective of this study was to compare physiological responses of horses travelling cross-tied or loose during 24 h of road transport. Ten horses were used in a cross-over design consisting of two 4 day trials. In the first trial, 6 horses were cross-tied, while 2 pairs of horses were loose in enclosed compartments. Treatments were reversed in the second trial. Baseline samples were collected on Day 1, horses transported on Day 2, and recovery data collected on Days 3 and 4. Blood samples were collected daily at 0800, 1100 and 2000 h. The mean responses in all horses of serum cortisol, lactate, glucose, α1-acid glycoprotein, and total protein concentrations, packed cell volume (PCV), white blood cell (WBC) counts and aminotransferase and creatine kinase were was elevated significantly from baseline during the 4 day study. The response of white blood cell counts, neutrophil to lymphocyte ratios and glucose and cortisol concentrations was significantly elevated in the cross-tied compared to the loose group during transport and recovery. This study supports the recommendation of allowing horses during long-term transportation to travel loose in small compartments, without elevating their head by cross-tying.
Domain Structure‐Second Harmonic Generation Correlation in Potassium Niobate Thin Films Deposited on a Strontium Titanate Substrate

The experimental measurement of second harmonic generation (SHG) and theoretical correlation of the SHG output to domain microstructure is presented for ferroelectric KNbO{sub 3} (110) thin films on a SrTiO{sub 3} (100) substrate. From X-ray diffraction, four possible domain variants in the film growth plane were determined to be KNbO{sub 3} [1{bar 1}0]{parallel}SrTiO{sub 3} [001], [00{bar 1}], [010], or [0{bar 1}0] denoted as variants X+, X{minus}, Y+, and Y{minus}, respectively. From theoretical modeling of the SHG output from the film, the ratios of nonlinear coefficients d{sub 0}/d{sub 32} and d{sub 24}/d{sub 0} in the film were determined to be 2.19 {+-} 0.12 and 0.46 {+-} 0.26, respectively, in good agreement with the bulk KNbO{sub 3} crystals. The term d{sub 0} is defined as d{sub 15} + (d{sub 31} + d{sub 33})/2. The SHG can also distinguish between X+ and X{minus}, as well as Y+ and Y{minus}, domains, which was not possible by X-ray diffraction. The ratio of net area fraction ({vert_bar}A{sup X+} {minus} A{sup X{minus}}{vert_bar}/A{sup Y+} {minus} A{sup Y{minus}}{vert_bar}) was determined to be 2.76 {+-} 1.06 in the probe area (2.25{pi} mm{sup 2}) where A{sup X+}, A{sup X{minus}}, A{sup Y+}, and A{sup Y{minus}} are the area fractions of domain variantsmore » X+, X{minus}, Y+, and Y{minus}, respectively, in the film growth plane.« less
Lateral confinement effects on the structural properties of surfactant aggregates: SDS on graphene

The structure of aqueous sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) surfactant aggregates formed on small graphene sheets and graphene nanoribbons has been studied using all-atom molecular dynamics simulations. Because the edges of the carbonaceous supports confine laterally the surfactant aggregates, by changing the size of the support (diameter of graphene sheets and width of graphene nanoribbons) it is possible to investigate lateral confinement effects on the aggregate morphology. The results are compared to those available on graphite, with no lateral confinement. Aqueous SDS aggregates were studied on 2.0 nm, 5.0 nm, and 10.0 nm circular graphene sheets and on 2.0 and 5.0 nm wide graphene nanoribbons. For the first time our results show that, because of lateral confinement provided by the graphene edges, SDS yields multiple layers, hemispheres, hemicylinders or multiple hemispheres depending on the graphene size and shape. Results are quantified in terms of morphology of the surfactant aggregates, order parameter of the adsorbed surfactant aggregates, and number of water molecules at contact with the carbonaceous support.
Testicular maturation in the rabbit: secretion of testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, 5alpha-androstan-3alpha, 17beta-diol and 5alpha-androstan-3beta, 17beta-diol by perfused rabbit testes-epididymides and spermatogenesis.

The rabbit testis-epididymis was perfused in vitro to observe pubertal changes in the secretion of testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, 3o-androstanediol, and 3�i-androstanediol. At selected ages between I and 52 weeks, steroid secretion was correlated with testicular gonadotropin binding activity, plasma androgen levels, serum gonadotropin levels, daily sperm production and spermatogenesis. Testosterone was secreted throughout the period of testicular maturation and accounted for 50% or more of the mass of total androgens produced. Dihydrotestosterone, 3a-androstanediol, and 313-androstanediol (5a-reduced steroids) were not detected until 6 weeks of age but were secreted in increasing quantities during the remainder of pubertal development. The combined mass of testosterone and the 3 5o-reduced androgens thatwas secretedaveraged 0.2, 1.5, 7.4 and 7.8 (pg/testis/h) at 4, 6, 10 and 52 weeks, respectively. Increments in plasma androgen titers coincide with the rise in androgen secretion by perfused testes-epididymides. Circulating androgen concentrations were not correlated with serum LH levels but were tightly coupled to circulating FSH titers (r = 0.93). Testicular and seminal vesicle growth and germ cell differentiation were coincident with graded increments in testosterone and So-reduced androgen production. Each of the indices of testicular function indicated sexual maturity was achieved by 1 8 weeks of age. Two important points emerge from the foregoing results.First, testosterone was the chiefandrogen elaborated throughout pre- and postpubertal testiculardevelopment, a findingwhich contrasts with the predominant formation of 5o-reduced androgens in prepubertal mice and rats. Second, the highly significant correlation between FSH release and plasma androgen levels suggests that FSH may mediate testicular responsiveness to LH during sexual maturation in the rabbit.
Neuroscience curriculum changes and outcomes: medical university of South Carolina, 2006 to 2010.

OBJECTIVES To develop future neurologists and translational neuroscientists, we created a neurosciences pathway throughout our medical school curriculum that included early exposure to clinical neurosciences decision-making and added variety to the choices of later clinical neurosciences experiences. METHODS Our curricular innovation had 3 parts: (1) integrating basic neurosciences content into an explicit clinical context in a College of Medicine (COM) first year of medical school; (2) expanding pathophysiological principles related to neurosciences in COM second year of medical school; and (3) creating a variety of 3-week clinical neurosciences selectives in COM third year of medical school and 4-week electives/externships for interested learners in COM fourth year of medical school. These new changes were evaluated (1) by comparing national standardized examinations including Neurology Subject examination scores for students choosing clinical neurosciences selectives; (2) by student satisfaction Graduate Questionnaires; and (3) by the total number of our graduates matching in US neurosciences disciplines. RESULTS Students taking neuroscience selectives demonstrated a nonsignificant trend toward higher Step 2 Clinical Knowledge scores. The students' Neurology Subject examination scores were comparable with those scores reported nationally for other US COM third year of medical school students on 4-week rotations. Student-reported satisfaction in clinical neurology teaching improved from 43.9% (before) to 81.8% (after). The percentage of students matching into clinical neuroscience disciplines rose from 2% (before) to 6% (after). CONCLUSIONS Our neurosciences curricular innovation increased graduating student satisfaction scores, had a mild positive impact on Step 2 Clinical Knowledge scores, and increased the number of students choosing careers in the clinical neurosciences. This model may be a consideration for other medical schools who wish to integrate neurosciences teaching throughout their curriculum.
Spontaneous rupture of the esophagus; report of a case with immediate diagnosis and successful surgical repair.

(1947). Spontaneous Rupture of the Esophagus. Postgraduate Medicine: Vol. 2, No. 6, pp. 417-421.
Analysis of epidemiologic characteristics of scarlet fever in Xicheng District of Beijing during 1993 to 2007

Objective The aim of this investigation is to analyze the trend of morbidity and epidemiologic characteristics of scarlet fever in Xicheng District, Beijing during 1993 to 2007 and to provide scientific evidence for further institution of preventive and treatment measures for it.Methods Distribution of scarlet fever cases in Xicheng during 1993 to 2007 were analyzed by calendar year, neighborhood and person.Results There were 1?077 cases of scarlet fever from 1993 to 2007 notified, mainly at ages of 1 to 15 years and in students, focusing in Xinjiekou Neighborhood, and with peaks in years of 1993 (annual incidence of 40.73 per 100?000 ) and 1994.Conclusions Incidence of scarlet fever was increasing a little in the past three years. Students in primary and secondary schools and young children in nurseries and kindergartens were high-risk group of scarlet fever and more attention should be given to them. Effective control measures is essential to maintain low-level incidence of scarlet fever in Xicheng District.
Challenges in Testosterone Measurement, Data Interpretation, and Methodological Appraisal of Interventional Trials.

Abstract Introduction Male hypogonadism is a common condition, with an increasing body of literature on diagnosis, implications, and management. Given the significant variability in testosterone (T) from a physiologic and assay perspective, a thorough understanding of factors affecting T values and study methodology is essential to interpret reported study outcomes appropriately. However, despite the large number of publications on T, there are no reference materials consolidating all relevant and potentially confounding factors necessary to interpret T studies appropriately. Aims To create a resource document that reviews sources of T variability, free vs total T, assay techniques and questionnaires, and study methodology relevant to interpreting outcomes. Methods A PubMed search was performed of all the T literature published on T variability, assay techniques, and T-specific questionnaires. Results were summarized in the context of their impact on interpreting T literature outcomes and methodology. Main Outcome Measures Effect of various factors on T variability and their relevance to study methodology and outcomes. Results Several factors affect measured T levels, including aging, circadian rhythms, geography, genetics, lifestyle choices, comorbid conditions, and intraindividual daily variability. The utility of free T over total T is debatable and must be compared using appropriate threshold levels. Among various assay techniques, mass spectrometry and equilibrium dialysis are gold standards. Calculated empirical estimates of free T also are commonly used and accepted. Hypogonadism-specific questionnaires have limited utility in screening for hypogonadism, and their role as objective end points for quantifying symptoms remains unclear. Numerous aspects of study methodology can directly or indirectly affect reported outcomes, including design (randomized, prospective, retrospective), duration, populations studied (age, comorbid conditions), low T threshold, therapeutic agent used, objective measurements and end points selected, and statistical interpretation. Conclusion Critical appraisal of the T literature requires an understanding of numerous factors resulting in T variability, study design and methodology, and limitations of assay techniques and objective measurement scales.