cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology of Thyroid Nodules with Hürthle Cells: Cytomorphologic Predictors for Neoplasms, Improving Diagnostic Accuracy and Overcoming Pitfalls

Objectives: Hurthle cells (HCs) are follicular-derived oncocytic cells seen in a variety of neoplastic and nonneoplastic pathologic entities of the thyroid gland. This study was to report our experience of the surgical outcome on the finding of HCs on fine-needle aspiration biopsies (FNABs) of thyroid nodules, to identify cytologic predictors of HC neoplasms and an attempt to overcome diagnostic pitfalls. Study Design: This was a retrospective study of all FNAB of thyroid nodules with findings of HCs with subsequent surgical resection. The FNAB slides of 70 thyroid nodules were blindly reviewed for specific cytomorphologic characteristics. The cytologic findings were correlated with the corresponding final surgical pathology diagnosis. Results: The patients ranged in age from 25 to 78 years with a male:female ratio of 1:2. There were 19 false-negative and 4 false-positive cases. Overall high cellularity, scant colloid and >90% HCs on FNAB are consistently seen in a neoplastic HC process. All cases of Hashimoto's thyroiditis were associated with prominent nucleoli and 92% of cases demonstrating transgressing vessels were neoplastic. Conclusion: Diagnostic accuracy can be improved by following the current Bethesda classification system. A constellation of cytomorphologic features in conjunction with clinical findings can be considered a strong predictor of a neoplastic process.
Alteration of murine mammary tumorigenesis by dietary enrichment with n-3 fatty acids in fish oil

We and others have previously shown that dietary fat can alter the growth and metastasis of rodent mammary tumors. Few transplantable tumor models have been used to study the effects of dietary n-6 versus n-3 fatty acids on mammary tumorigenesis. Here we study the effects of fish oil and safflower oil on the growth and metastasis of an animal model that in several ways parallels the human disease. Tumor latency, growth and metastasis were studied in mice fed diets that contained either 10 or 20% total fat which was varied in the type of fat with either menhaden fish oil (FO), safflower oil (SO) or a 50/50 mixture of the two. Tumor latency was significantly longer and tumor growth was significantly slower in mice fed the 20% FO diet. When spontaneous metastasis was assessed, mice fed diets containing FO had significantly decreased numbers of pulmonary nodules and total metastatic load. Likewise, mice fed FO diets had a lower level of implantation and survival of pulmonary metastases. Thus, in our animal model, diets containing n-3 fatty acids in fish oil significantly decrease primary breast tumor growth and its metastasis.
The Conventional Wisdom About Group Mean Scores

Not infrequently, investigators assume that reliability for groups is greater than reliability for persons, and/or that error variance for groups is less than error variance for persons. Using generalizability theory, it is shown that this conventional wisdom is not necessarily true. Examples are provided from the course evaluation literature and the performance testing literature
Supporting long-running tasks on an evolving multidatabase using interactions and events

An open nested multi-database transaction model called Interactions is proposed. Interactions sit above a layer that provide atomic, serializable global multidatabase transactions. It provides additional support for planning applications, which are long-running applications that may need to respond to changes in the underlying multidatabase. Interactions and the multidatabase architecture that they run on are described, and synchronization of Interactions is discussed. The nature of events, which the applications can use to monitor changes in the information in the multidatabase is described, and how they are detected and how to respond to them are defined. This response usually involves semantically undoing part of at least one Interaction, so a brief description of how recovery works in that situation is given. >
A Pathway in Primate Brain for Internal Monitoring of Movements

It is essential to keep track of the movements we make, and one way to do that is to monitor correlates, or corollary discharges, of neuronal movement commands. We hypothesized that a previously identified pathway from brainstem to frontal cortex might carry corollary discharge signals. We found that neuronal activity in this pathway encodes upcoming eye movements and that inactivating the pathway impairs sequential eye movements consistent with loss of corollary discharge without affecting single eye movements. These results identify a pathway in the brain of the primate Macaca mulatta that conveys corollary discharge signals.
Health inequalities and the health of the poor: What do we know? What can we do?

The contents of this theme section of the Bulletin of the World Health Organization on "Inequalities in health" have two objectives: to present the initial findings from a new generation of research that has been undertaken in response to renewed concern for health inequalities; and to stimulate movement for action in order to correct the problems identified by this research. The research findings are presented in the five articles which follow. This Critical Reflection proposes two initial steps for the action needed to alleviate the problem; other suggestions are given by the participants in a Round Table discussion which is published after these articles. The theme section concludes with extracts from the classic writings of the nineteenth-century public health pioneer, William Farr, who is widely credited as one of the founders of the scientific study of health inequalities, together with a commentary. This Critical Reflection contributes to the discussion of the action needed by proposing two initial steps for action. That professionals who give very high priority to the distinct but related objectives of poverty alleviation, inequality reduction, and equity enhancement recognize that their shared concern for the distributional aspects of health policy is far more important than any differences that may divide them. That health policy goals, currently expressed as societal averages, be reformulated so that they point specifically to conditions among the poor and to poor-rich differences. For example, infant mortality rates among the poor or the differences in infant mortality between rich and poor sectors would be more useful indicators than the average infant mortality rates for the whole population.
Ghrelin suppression is associated with weight loss and insulin action following gastric bypass surgery at 12 months in obese adults with type 2 diabetes

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery reverses type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in approximately 80% of patients. Ghrelin regulates glucose homeostasis, but its role in T2DM remission after RYGB surgery is unclear. Nine obese T2DM subjects underwent a mixed meal tolerance test before and at 1 and 12 months after RYGB surgery. Changes in ghrelin, body weight, glucagon-like polypeptide-1 (GLP-1, glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity (IS) were measured. At 1 month, body weight, glycaemia and IS were improved, while ghrelin concentrations were reduced (p < 0.05). After 12 months, body weight and fasting glucose were reduced (30 and 16%, respectively; p < 0.05) and IS was enhanced (threefold; p < 0.05). Ghrelin suppression improved by 32% at 12 months (p < 0.05), and this was associated with weight loss (r = 0.72, p = 0.03), enhanced IS (r =− 0.78, p = 0.01) and peak postprandial GLP-1 (r =− 0.73, p = 0.03). These data suggest that postprandial ghrelin suppression may be part of the mechanism that contributes to diabetes remission after RYGB surgery.
Complexes of the α1C and β Subunits Generate the Necessary Signal for Membrane Targeting of Class C L-type Calcium Channels

Abstract In the present study, we investigated the role of channel subunits in the membrane targeting of voltage-dependent L-type calcium channel complexes. We co-expressed the calcium channel pore-forming α1Csubunit with different accessory β subunits in HEK-tsA201 cells and examined the subcellular localization of the channel subunits by immunohistochemistry using confocal microscopy and whole-cell radioligand binding studies. While the pore-forming α1Csubunit exhibited perinuclear staining when expressed alone, and several of the wild-type and mutant β subunits also exhibited intracellular staining, co-expression of the α1C subunit with either the wild-type β2a subunit, a palmitoylation-deficient β2a(C3S/C4S) mutant or three other nonpalmitoylated β isoforms (β1b, β3, and β4 subunits) resulted in the redistribution of both the α1C and β subunits into clusters along the cell surface. Furthermore, the redistribution of calcium channel complexes to the plasma membrane was observed when α1C was co-expressed with an N- and C-terminal truncated mutant β2a containing only the central conserved regions. However, when the α1C subunit was co-expressed with an α1β interaction-deficient mutant, β2aBID−, we did not observe formation of the channels at the plasma membrane. In addition, an Src homology 3 motif mutant of β2a that was unable to interact with the α1C subunit also failed to target channel complexes to the plasma membrane. Interestingly, co-expression of the pore-forming α1C subunit with the largely peripheral accessory α2δ subunit was ineffective in recruiting α1C to the plasma membrane, while co-distribution of all three subunits was observed when β2a was co-expressed with the α1C and α2δ subunits. Taken together, our results suggested that the signal necessary for correct plasma membrane targeting of the class C L-type calcium channel complexes is generated as a result of a functional interaction between the α1 and β subunits.
Assistive Technology Device Use in Patients With Rheumatic Disease: A Literature Review

Occupational therapists often prescribe assistive tech­ nology devices (ATDs) to assist persons with disabilities in pelfonning daily living tasks. Estimates suggest that although most ATDs are used, a substantial propor­ tion are never used or are discarded shortly after they are obtained. A review ofthe literature on ATDs was carried out to identify factors that contribute to ATD use and disuse. The review focused on persons with os­ teoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, because such persons are frequent users ofATDs. Although the lit­ erature review highlighted person-, environment-, and ATD-relatedfactors as relevant to ATD use, it also un­ derscored the dearth ofsCientific study ofthe prescnp­ tion, provision, and use ofATDs. A model is proposed to gUide empirical research aimed at identifying non-device users from the outset of treatment so that interventions to improve ATD use may be initiated or altemative interventions implemented. The variables comprising the model pertain to the patient, the pa­ tient's living environment, the therapist prescribing the device, and the device itself.
Characterization of the Pal motifs in the upstream glucokinase promoter: binding of a cell type-specific protein complex correlates with transcriptional activation.

The upstream glucokinase (GK) promoter is expressed specifically in several different neural/neuroendocrine (NE) cell types, including the pancreatic beta-cell and pituitary corticotrope. Previously, a mutational and evolutionary analysis of this promoter identified two identical 9-bp motifs (TGGTCACCA) termed Pal-1 and Pal-2 that are essential for high level expression in HIT M2.2.2 cells, an insulinoma cell line. Here we show that these motifs are also necessary for efficient expression in AtT-20 cells, a corticotrope-derived cell line, and that proteins from both NE and non-NE cells bind to the Pal motifs, although the DNA-protein complexes differ by cell type. Complexes formed using nuclear extracts from NE cells contained an extra NE cell-specific band and differed in the relative abundance of two other bands when compared with non-NE cells, UV laser cross-linking experiments further supported the cell-specific binding of two proteins, 110 and 150 kDa in size, to these motifs. The presence or absence...
Cold hardiness and water relations parameters in Rhododendron cv. Catawbiense Boursault subjected to drought episodes

We determined whether increase in cold hardiness of Rhododendron cv. Catawbiense Boursault induced by water stress was correlated with changes in tissue water relations. Water content of the growing medium was either maintained near field capacity for the duration of the study or plants were subjected to drought episodes at different times between 15 July and 19 February. Watering during a drought episode was delayed until soil water content decreased below 0.4 m 3 m -3 , then watering was resumed at a level to maintain soil water content between 0.3 and 0.4 m 3 m -3 . Cold hardiness was evaluated in the laboratory with freeze tolerance tests on detached leaves. Water relations parameters were determined using pressure-volume analysis. Exposure to drought episodes increased cold hardiness during the cold acclimation stage in late summer and fall but not during the winter. When water-stressed plants were re-watered to field capacity, the previous gain in cold hardiness gradually disappeared. Water relations parameters correlating with seasonal changes of cold hardiness included dry matter content (r = -0.67), apoplastic water content (r = -0.60), and water potential at the turgor loss point (r = 0.40). Changes of cold hardiness in water-stressed plants in reference to well-watered plants were correlated with changes of all water relations parameters, except for osmotic potential at full turgor (r = 0.13). It is proposed that water stress reduced the hydration of cell walls, thereby increasing their rigidity. Increased rigidity of cell walls could result in a development of greater negative turgor pressures at subfreezing temperatures and therefore increased resistance to freeze dehydration.
β-Blockers A Review of Their Pharmacological and Physiological Diversity in Hypertension

Objective: To review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamic properties of commonly used β-blockers (atenolol, carvedilol, metoprolol succinate, metoprolol tartrate, and nebivolol). Data Sources: A MEDLINE literature search (1966-May 2013) was performed using the following key terms: hypertension, β-blockers, atenolol, carvedilol, metoprolol tartrate, metoprolol succinate, nebivolol, pharmacology, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, blood pressure, metabolic, lipid, central aortic pressure, diabetes, and insulin resistance. References from publications reviewed were included. Study Selection and Data Extraction: English-language articles identified were reviewed. Animal studies and studies in patients for a primary diagnosis of coronary artery disease were excluded. Data Synthesis: β-Blockers are no longer recommended first-line therapy for primary hypertension, based on data showing that β-blockers are inferior to other antihypertensives and no better than placebo, in spite of provision o...
Introduction to augmented and virtual reality

This paper introduces the field of augmented reality as a prolog to the body of papers in the remainder of this session. I describe the use of head-mounted display technologies to improve the efficiency and quality of human workers in their performance of engineering design, manufacturing, construction, testing, and maintenance activities. This technology is used to `augment' the visual field of the wearer with information necessary in the performance of the current task. The enabling technology is head-up (see-through) display head sets (HUDsets) combined with head position sensing, real world registration systems, and database access software. A primary difference between virtual reality (VR) and `augmented reality' (AR) is in the complexity of the perceived graphical objects. In AR systems, only simple wire frames, template outlines, designators, and text is displayed. An immediate result of this difference is that augmented reality systems can be driven by standard and inexpensive microprocessors. Many research issues must be addressed before this technology can be widely used, including tracking and registration, human 3D perception and reasoning, and human task performance issues.
A description of pharmacy experiential education in the emergency department

With the expansion of pharmacy clinical services in emergency departments nationwide comes a growing opportunity for experiential education in this setting. This article discusses the introduction of pharmacy residents and students into the emergency department at Northwestern Memorial Hospital (NMH) in Chicago, Illinois. We address the challenges faced with the implementation of experiential education, the specific roles of the trainees to extend clinical pharmacy services in the department, the pharmacist precepting model employed at NMH, and the creation of structured rotational experiences. Alignment with educational and experiential requirements is highlighted throughout.
Perfringolysin O Structure and Mechanism of Pore Formation as a Paradigm for Cholesterol-Dependent Cytolysins

Cholesterol-dependent cytolysins (CDCs) constitute a family of pore forming toxins secreted by Gram-positive bacteria. These toxins form transmembrane pores by inserting a large β-barrel into cholesterol-containing membrane bilayers. Binding of water-soluble CDCs to the membrane triggers the formation of oligomers containing 35–50 monomers. The coordinated insertion of more than seventy β-hairpins into the membrane requires multiple structural conformational changes. Perfringolysin O (PFO), secreted by Clostridium perfringens, has become the prototype for the CDCs. In this chapter, we will describe current knowledge on the mechanism of PFO cytolysis, with special focus on cholesterol recognition, oligomerization, and the conformational changes involved in pore formation.
Methamphetamine Production on Public Lands: Threats and Responses

From stills to marijuana crops, our public lands have historically been the home of illicit activity. Methamphetamine production can now be added to the list. However, methamphetamine production presents unique threats and challenges that remain understudied. Methamphetamine production is highly toxic, and the disposal of this waste on forestlands represents a serious and growing environmental crime in the United States. This article examines three forms of collateral damage that the meth threat poses: the environmental consequences of meth production on public lands, the threats to people recreating on public lands, and the potential for impact to gateway and resource-dependent communities. These three interrelated points of impact are documented as ways to understand the scope of this problem on public lands. In light of these findings, we also seek to understand the reasons behind the disparate institutional responses to the threat. We end with recommendations for research and management.
BIOGEOCHEMICAL INDICES OF PHOSPHORUS RETENTION AND RELEASE BY WETLAND SOILS AND ADJACENT STREAM SEDIMENTS

ABSTRACT Eutrophication is still a water quality problem within many watersheds. The Lake Okeechobee Basin, Florida, USA, like many watersheds is impacted by eutrophication caused by excess phosphorus (P). To meet water quality criteria to reduce this impairment, several levels of information on P dynamics within the Basin are required. The use of biogeochemical indices to help determine P retention/release of different landscape units such as wetlands and streams provides useful information on P dynamics. The objective of our study was to determine P retention/release indices for a range of wetland soils and their adjacent stream sediments. We sampled several wetlands and adjacent streams within Okeechobee's Basin, which represented a range of P impacted systems. Regression analyses suggest that a single incubation of sediment/soil equilibrated at 1000 mg P kg−1 was sufficient (> 96% of the time) to estimate maximum P sorption capacity (Smax). Using this single incubation, sampled wetlands had nearly twi...
An Orbitally Driven Tropical Source for Abrupt Climate Change

Abstract Paleoclimatic data are increasingly showing that abrupt change is present in wide regions of the globe. Here a mechanism for abrupt climate change with global implications is presented. Results from a tropical coupled ocean–atmosphere model show that, under certain orbital configurations of the past, variability associated with El Nino–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) physics can abruptly lock to the seasonal cycle for several centuries, producing a mean sea surface temperature (SST) change in the tropical Pacific that resembles a La Nina. It is suggested that this change in SST would have a global impact and that abrupt events such as the Younger Dryas may be the outcome of orbitally driven changes in the tropical Pacific.
Enforcing consistency in spectral masks using Markov random fields

Localization-based multichannel source separation algorithms typically operate by clustering or classifying individual time-frequency points based on their spatial characteristics, treating adjacent points as independent observations. The Model-based EM Source Separation and Localization (MESSL) algorithm is one such approach for binaural signals that achieves additional robustness by enforcing consistency in inaural parameters across frequency. This paper incorporates MESSL into a Markov Random Field (MRF) framework in order to addition ally enforce consistency in the assignment of neighboring time-frequency units to sources. Approximate inference in the MRF is performed using loopy belief propagation (LBP), and the same approach can be used to smooth any probabilistic source separation mask. The proposed MESSL-MRF algorithm is tested on binaural mixtures of three sources in reverberant conditions and shows significant improvements over the original MESSL algorithm as measured by both signal-to-distortion ratios as well as a speech intelligibility predictor.
Photoactivated coumaryl-diazopyruvate fluorescent label for amine functional groups of tissues containing type-I collagen

The design, synthesis and application of a new fluorescent-labeling reagent for collagen has been developed as a prerequisite for the design of a photoactivated collagen-crosslinking compound for surgical wound closure. The amine groups in collagen are the targets of a rational design for a new fluorophore because natural collagen crosslinks are formed between primary (1) amine groups of lysine and hydroxylysine. The availability of 1degrees amines for crosslinking in native collagenous tissues was evaluated by reacting tendon and corneal samples with o-phthalaldehyde and dansyl chloride, fluorophores commonly used for the detection of 1 and 2 amines. The resulting fluorescent collagen fibrils indicated the presence of amines in native tissue. Subsequently, a photoactivated fluorescent label for 1 and 2 amines, coumaryl gamma-amino-butyric acid diazopyruvate (CGDP), was designed and synthesized. CGDP was first used to photolabel poly-L-lysine, forming a fluorescent, covalent bond to the 1 amine. CGDP was then photoreacted with corneal and tendon tissue samples to produce CGDP fluorescent-labeled samples that were statistically significantly more fluorescent than were the controls. These experiments support the postulate that 1 or 2 (or both) amines in native collagenous tissues are available to serve as targets for photoactivated collagen crosslinkers for wound closure.
Meiosis in the Pollen Mother Cells of OENOTHERA BIENNIS and OENOTHERA BIENNIS SULFUREA.

Page 131, for "Plate 1" read "Plate 2." Page 137, for "Plate 2" read "Plate 1." Page 154, line 24, for " 'chromosome exchange' "read "interchromosomal crossing over or 'chromosome exchange'." Page 156, last line, for " 'interchromosomal crossing over' " read "interchromosomal crossing over or '
Citizen Representation and the American Jury

Participatory and deliberative democrats are increasingly relying on groups of "lay" citizens to have a direct hand in policy formation and consultation. However, these theorists have not adequately addressed how these "citizen representatives" should be selected and how their activities can be truly deemed "representative". We find these lacunae unsurprising in light of continued confusion in the representation literature about the relationship between democracy and representation - and the continued lack of effort to bridge normative theories of political representation with sensitivity to real institutional practices of representation. Accordingly, we look at a particular institutional manifestation of democratic representation - the American jury system - and tease out a theory of "citizen representation" that highlights six central desiderata: deliberation, impartiality, cross-sectionality, civic responsibility, legitimacy, and indirect accountability. An analogy that proves rich upon examination, we find that the jury's implicit theory of citizen representation has much to recommend to proposals and practices of citizen representation in other institutional settings.
Physically (CO2) activated hydrochars from hickory and peanut hull: preparation, characterization, and sorption of methylene blue, lead, copper, and cadmium

The effects of CO2 activation temperature (600–900 °C) and time (1 and 2 h) on the physicochemical and sorptive characteristics of hickory and peanut hull hydrochars were investigated. The extent of burn-off increased with increasing activation times and temperatures, and ranged from 34–54% and 28–50% for activated hydrochars (AHCs), respectively. The surface area and pore volume of the AHCs also increased with activation time and temperature and were much higher than those of their corresponding non-activated parent hydrochars. In general, the physical activation improved the ability of all AHCs to sorb methylene blue, lead (Pb2+), copper (Cu2+), and cadmium (Cd2+) from aqueous solutions. AHCs created at 900 °C had the best sorption ability, and the highest sorption rate was usually observed in 900 °C 2 h AHCs. The sorption of methylene blue and the three heavy metals was strongly correlated with AHC surface area, suggesting that the adsorption occurred via site-specific interactions.
Forum Essay: Pluralist Democracy: Balancing Publicity, Privacy, and Secrecy

(2003). Forum Essay: Pluralist Democracy: Balancing Publicity, Privacy, and Secrecy. Administrative Theory & Praxis: Vol. 25, No. 2, pp. 299-308.
Kinetics of the methylation of a platinum(II) diimine dithiolate complex

Abstract Pt(dbbpy)(bdt) and Pt(tmphen)(bdt) (dbbpy = 4,4′-di-t-butyl-2,2′-bipyridine; tmphen = 3,4,7,8-tetramethyl-1,10-phenanthroline; bdt2− = 1,2-benzenedithiolate) are reported. Pt(dbbpy)(bdt) reacts with one equivalent of methyl iodide to give the S-methylated product, [Pt(dbbpy)(CH3bdt)]I. The reaction follows second order kinetics with a rate constant of 1.3 × 10−2 M−1 s−1 at 311 K. The accumulated data are consistent with direct nucleophilic attack by the coordinated bdt2− ligand sulfur atom on the carbon atom of the methyl iodide. Variable-temperature experiments yield an Arrhenius activation energy of 51 ± 3 kJ/mol. Activated complex reaction theory yields an enthalpy and entropy of activation of 48 ± 2 kJ/mol and −125 ± 7 J/(mol K), respectively, consistent with an SN2 reaction mechanism. The structure of the monosulfinate adduct, Pt(dbbpy)(bdtO2), also is reported. The fluid-solution luminescence of Pt(tmphen)(bdt) is concentration dependent and characterized by a 1591 ± 41 ns lifetime and 2.6 ± 0.2% quantum yield at infinite dilution. The observed chemical reactivity and self-quenching behavior have important implications for the design of photochemical devices based on the platinum(II) diimine dithiolate chromophore.
Recognizing chronic renal failure...the sooner, the better.

By recognizing early signs of kidney disease, you can stem its devastating effects and may prevent or delay end-stage renal failure.
An ethical analysis of population policy alternatives.

The differing views of crisis environmentalists family planners and developmental distributivists on population problems and policy responses to them are analyzed. What is evident from the analysis is that there is no clear agreement as to what are to be considered population-related problems or their seriousness. Though general agreement exists that overpopulation is a real possibility there is no agreement as to how societies should achieve and maintain zero population growth where it is a reasonable goal. Crisis environmentalists stress the threat posed to survival by overpopulation but have done a disservice by giving a simplified account of how population and environmental variables interact. Family planners have stressed the value of freedom in the form of the absence of constraint but their programs and the moral basis on which they are predicated are inadequate. A policy that seeks to be advantageous for society as a whole through reducing population growth will only be just to the extent that it is advatageous to every member of society. Reducing the family size of the poor while advantageous to society as a whole may not be to them as the poor often need children for labor and for security in old age. When family planning services are integrated with maternal-child health the poor can however begin to see some benefits. The development distributivists believe that improvement in socioeconomic conditions will lead to lower birthrates. They point to the fact that people often starve because of poverty illiteracy and government policies and not because of insufficient food supplies. They see an unfavorable socioeconomic status as the cause of a large family. Raises in percapita gross national product will not be sufficient to bring fertility down; rather extensive distribution of income and social services is needed. Social justice would be a requisite of any distributivist population policy. The World Population Plan of Action holds most closely to the distributivist point of view.
Yeast V-ATPase Proteolipid Ring Acts as a Large-conductance Transmembrane Protein Pore.

The vacuolar H+ -ATPase (V-ATPase) is a rotary motor enzyme that acidifies intracellular organelles and the extracellular milieu in some tissues. Besides its canonical proton-pumping function, V-ATPase’s membrane sector, Vo, has been implicated in non-canonical functions including membrane fusion and neurotransmitter release. Here, we report purification and biophysical characterization of yeast V-ATPase c subunit ring (c-ring) using electron microscopy and single-molecule electrophysiology. We find that yeast c-ring forms dimers mediated by the c subunits’ cytoplasmic loops. Electrophysiology measurements of the c-ring reconstituted into a planar lipid bilayer revealed a large unitary conductance of ~8.3 nS. Thus, the data support a role of V-ATPase c-ring in membrane fusion and neuronal communication.
Fugitive Baseballs and Abandoned Property: Who Owns the Home Run Ball?

This article began as a modest attempt to answer the question by what legal theory does Joe Figone claim ownership and title to Barry Bonds 500th home run baseball, and by what theory might someone claim ownership of any baseball. The investigation and analysis of these questions provides a better understanding of the nature of property in law, and at the same time allows us to see how, in one more way, baseball mirrors our legal system and helps us understand the rule of law.
Crystal structures of a group II intron maturase reveal a missing link in spliceosome evolution

Group II introns are self-splicing ribozymes that are essential in many organisms, and they have been hypothesized to share a common evolutionary ancestor with the spliceosome. Although structural similarity of RNA components supports this connection, it is of interest to determine whether associated protein factors also share an evolutionary heritage. Here we present the crystal structures of reverse transcriptase (RT) domains from two group II intron-encoded proteins (maturases) from Roseburia intestinalis and Eubacterium rectale, obtained at 1.2-A and 2.1-A resolution, respectively. These domains are more similar in architecture to the spliceosomal Prp8 RT-like domain than to any other RTs, and they share substantial similarity with flaviviral RNA polymerases. The RT domain itself is sufficient for binding intron RNA with high affinity and specificity, and it is contained within an active RT enzyme. These studies provide a foundation for understanding structure-function relationships within group II intron-maturase complexes.
Preparation and Luminescence Properties of BaZrO_3∶(Ce,Pr) Nanoparticles

BaZrO3∶( Ce,Pr) luminous particles were prepared by alcohol-water solvothermal method. The phase transition and morphology characteristic of the samples were analyzed by XRD and SEM. The excitation and emission spectra of the samples were analyzed by fluorescence spectrophotometer. The results show that the particles,which grain size is about 39. 0 nm,approximately spherical and have good dispersion under the conditions of n(Ba) ∶ n( Zr) = 0. 7∶ 1,V( H2O) ∶ V( C2H5OH) = 1∶ 3,p H = 14,treated at 200 ℃ for 20 h. The superior luminescence property is obtained when the doping molar concentration ratio is Ce3 +/ Pr3 += 1∶ 3.
Comparative effects of acute hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia on pro-atherothrombotic biomarkers and endothelial function in non-diabetic humans.

Abstract Background The comparative effects of acute moderate hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia on in vivo endothelial function together with pro-inflammatory and pro-atherothrombotic responses in healthy individuals have not been determined. Methods To investigate this question, 45 healthy subjects were compared during glucose clamp studies consisting of euinsulinemic hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemic hyperglycemia (plasma glucose 11.1mmol/L, both with pancreatic clamps) and hyperinsulinemic euglycemia and hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia (plasma glucose 5.1 and 2.9mmol/L, respectively). Two-dimensional Doppler ultrasound was used to determine brachial artery endothelial function. Results Insulin levels during euinsulinemia hyperglycemia were 194±23 and (850±49–988±114) pmol/L during all hyperinsulinemic protocols. Responses of VCAM-1, ICAM-1, E-selectin, P-selectin, PAI-1, and IL-6 were increased ( p p p Conclusion In summary, acute moderate hypoglycemia and euinsulinemic hyperglycemia can result in similar endothelial dysfunction and pro-atherothrombotic responses. Fibrinolytic balance was reduced by a greater extent by hypoglycemia as compared to moderate hyperglycemia. Acutely, hyperinsulinemia can prevent the acute pro-atherothrombotic and pro-inflammatory effects of moderate hyperglycemia but not hypoglycemia.
The meanings of the physiognomic stimuli taketa and maluma

Physiognomic properties refer to the nonliteral sensory, perceptual, and affective connotations evoked by an object: a mountain, for example, is big as well as “quiet, looming, and threatening.” In this study (N = 58), the three types of meanings carried by meaningless stimuli were examined. Four equally unfamiliar stimuli, which were either physiognomically evocative (maluma and taketa) or neutral, were rated on 15 perceptual, affective, and sensory scales. Taketa and maluma were distinguished on 21 of the 30 endpoints of the scales, whereas the neutral stimuli were distinguished on only 8. Subjects’ physiognomy and sex did not play a role. The implications of these findings are discussed.
Emerging U.S. Policy Regarding Stratospheric and Ground Level Ozone

Publisher Summary Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) have been of regulatory concern in the United States since first linked to potential ozone depletion. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed a policy for how one would proceed in the absence of congressional action. The key thrust of this policy as proposed is for states to undertake a new round of planning for those areas that did not attain in the standard. This planning incorporates several considerations, including regular rates of progress (3% reduction in VOC emissions per year net of growth beyond federal requirements in areas that are long-term nonattainment); improved emissions inventories and attainment demonstrations; correction of deficiencies in existing rules; and implementation of federal measures such as onboard and gasoline volatility control. EPA has also proposed national rules on: gasoline volatility to reduce the vapor pressure, worth about 3% of the inventory; onboard refueling controls, worth about 2%; transfer, storage, and disposal facilities.
Prolyl Hydroxylase Domain-Containing Protein 2 (Phd2) Regulates Chondrocyte Differentiation and Secondary Ossification in Mice

Endochondral ossification plays an important role in the formation of the primary ossification centers (POCs) and secondary ossification centers (SOCs) of mammalian long bones. However, the molecular mechanisms that regulate POC and SOC formation are different. We recently demonstrated that Prolyl Hydroxylase Domain-containing Protein 2 (Phd2) is a key mediator of vitamin C effects on bone. We investigated the role of Phd2 on endochondral ossification of the epiphyses by conditionally deleting the Phd2 gene in osteoblasts and chondrocytes. We found that the deletion of Phd2 in osteoblasts did not cause changes in bone parameters in the proximal tibial epiphyses in 5 week old mice. In contrast, deletion of Phd2 in chondrocytes resulted in increased bone mass and bone formation rate (normalized to tissue volume) in long bone epiphyses, indicating that Phd2 expressed in chondrocytes, but not osteoblasts, negatively regulates secondary ossification of epiphyses. Phd2 deletion in chondrocytes elevated mRNA expression of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) signaling molecules including Hif-1α, Hif-2α, Vegfa, Vegfb, and Epo, as well as markers for chondrocyte hypertrophy and mineralization such as Col10, osterix, alkaline phosphatase, and bone sialoprotein. These data suggest that Phd2 expressed in chondrocytes inhibits endochondral ossification at the epiphysis by suppressing HIF signaling pathways.
The Erythroid Intron Retention Program Encompasses Developmentally Stable and Dynamic Networks and Regulates Diverse Gene Classes

Computational analysis of RNA-seq data from highly purified human erythroblasts has been instrumental in revealing changes in pre-mRNA splicing during terminal erythropoiesis. Here we report updated studies of intron retention (IR), a type of alternative splicing in which specific introns are retained in otherwise efficiently-processed transcripts, allowing post-transcriptional modulation of cellular mRNA levels. Differences in differentiation stage-specificity, degree of retention, nuclear/cytoplasmic localization, and sensitivity to nonsense-mediated decay (NMD) suggest the existence of multiple classes of erythroblast IR subject to distinct regulatory controls. Two clusters comprising ~470 "developmentally dynamic" introns in 354 genes exhibit more efficient splicing in proerythroblasts, but elevated intron retention in orthochromatic erythroblasts prior to enucleation. Dynamic regulation of late erythroblast IR parallels previously described splicing switches involving alternative exons. Gene ontology analysis revealed that the dynamic intron group is highly enriched in genes with RNA processing functions. Among these are several spliceosomal factors including SF3B1, a commonly mutated gene in myelodysplasia patients. We also identified several clusters of "developmentally stable" introns whose IR levels are not substantially modulated during erythropoiesis. Among this latter type are two clusters containing 294 introns that are enriched in functions related to metal ion binding. Key genes include mitoferrin-1 (SC25A37; IR~50%) and mitoferrin-2 (SLC25A28; IR~20-30%), mitochondrial iron importers essential for heme biosynthesis. We observed a correlation between splice site strength and percent IR among developmentally stable but not dynamic intron clusters, indicating that splicing regulatory mechanism(s) for the latter must require additional sequence features. A search for such features revealed that IR was significantly higher adjacent to alternative 'PTC' exons containing premature termination codons than it was adjacent to other exons; moreover, by direct RT-PCR analysis we discovered novel (unannotated) PTC exons in additional retained introns. The proposed role of PTC exons in IR is being studied experimentally using an array of minigene splicing reporter constructs. Finally, we noted that while specific IR events are erythroid specific, e.g., in the alpha spectrin gene SPTA1, computational analysis of public RNA-seq data demonstrated that most erythroblast IR events were also observed in granulocytes and in 16 other tissues surveyed by the human BodyMap project. Intron retention is likely to play critical roles in gene regulation in both hematological and non-hematological tissues. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Brachytherapy boost for prostate cancer: Trends in care and survival outcomes

Abstract Purpose Androgen suppression combined with elective nodal and dose-escalated radiation therapy recently demonstrated an improved biochemical failure–free survival in men who received external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) plus a brachytherapy boost (BB) compared with dose-escalated external beam radiotherapy (DE-EBRT). We sought to analyze the factors predictive for use of EBRT + BB as compared with DE-EBRT and report resulting survival outcomes on a national level using a hospital-based registry. Methods and Materials We identified 113,719 men from the National Cancer Database from 2004 to 2013 with intermediate- or high-risk prostate cancer who were treated with EBRT + BB or DE-EBRT. We performed univariate and multivariate analyses of all available factors potentially predictive of receipt of treatment selection. Survival was evaluated in a multivariable model with propensity adjustment. Results For intermediate-risk patients, utilization of BB decreased from 33.1% ( n = 1742) in 2004 to 12.5% ( n = 766) in 2013 and for high-risk patients, utilization dropped from 27.6% ( n = 879) to 10.8% ( n = 479). Numerous factors predictive for use of BB were identified. Cox proportional hazards analysis was performed—adjusting for age, Charlson–Deyo comorbidity score, T stage, prostate-specific antigen, Gleason score, and sociodemographic factors—and demonstrated BB use was associated with a hazard ratio of 0.71 (95% confidence interval, 0.67–0.75; p p Conclusions There has been a concerning decline in the utilization of BB for intermediate- and high-risk prostate cancer patients despite an association with improved on overall survival. Numerous factors predictive for use of BB have been identified.
Barriers and facilitators to Clostridium difficile infection prevention: A nursing perspective

Background Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is a critical patient safety issue. Consistent and regular performance of appropriate practices is effective in preventing CDI. Variation in adherence to these practices can impede their effective implementation and weaken CDI prevention. Methods Using the Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety (SEIPS) framework we convened a focus group of 10 nurses to identify barriers and facilitators to compliance with a CDI prevention bundle that includes (1) prompt diagnostic testing, (2) empirical isolation for patients with suspected CDI, (3) consistent and appropriate contact isolation, (4) hand hygiene, and (5) disinfection of the patient room and objects in the room. On completion of transcript coding, analyses were performed based on bundle intervention and the work system element of the SEIPS model. Results A total of 58 excerpts were coded. Work system barriers or facilitators were associated with nearly every bundle intervention. The work system elements raised in over half of the excerpts were task (n = 31) (eg, amount of additional effort required to don and doff gloves and gowns) and organization (n = 30) (eg, recognition by all staff of the severity of CDI). Contact isolation was the most frequently discussed bundle intervention (n = 24). Conclusions The SEIPS systems engineering framework is useful to evaluate infection prevention practices for CDI and identify opportunities for improvement. Addressing the work system barriers and facilitators identified in this study is essential to effective implementation of infection prevention interventions, specifically for CDI.
Abuse of Process (Transcript of Discussion)

I’d like to start by saying that at a previous workshop I suggested that it might be possible to combine proven security protocols in such a way that a composition was insecure. All of the examples that I was able to give people said “Oh, no, nobody would ever do that”, and so I’d like to thank Peter Landrock for giving me some real world examples of the sort of protocols that people are genuinely proposing. I hope they’re proposing them without any ill intent, but others might use them in ways that the designers didn’t actually intend.
0421 Injury severity, return to work, and outcomes in collectively-bargained alternative workers’ compensation arrangements

Introduction The construction industry experiences severe injuries. When an employee is injured, the goal is to minimise long-term disability and efficiently return the employee to work. The Union Construction Workers Compensation Program (UCWCP) of Minnesota provides an alternative, collectively-bargained system administered by workers’ compensation insurance providers. The program includes exclusive provider network for medical care and access to alternative dispute resolution process. The goal of this study is to determine injury outcome differences for UCWCP members. Methods Workers’ compensation claims were examined over a ten year period. UCWCP membership and date of enrollment were determined. Claims were stratified by medical or lost-time status. Multiple measures of severity and outcome were examined, including claim rate and duration, time to return-to-work, and permanent partial disability status. We calculated rates and comparative risk based on UCWCP. A logistic model will estimate rate ratios (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) as a function of claim rate. Time-to-event models will assess differences in duration of disability based on UCWCP. Proportional hazards regression estimated hazard ratios (HR) and 95% CI. Results UCWCP employers had a lower rate of lost-time claims. Compared to non-UCWCP employers, UCWCP-membership was associated with a 9% increased likelihood of claim closure for both medical and lost-time claims (HR=1.09, CI=1.05–1.13; HR=1.09, CI=1.02–1.17). Most differences occurred in the first 90 days. Return-to-work likelihood and reduced permanent disability appeared to be related to UCWCP. Conclusions Alternative workers’ compensation arrangements may include elements that collectively protect workers’ interests, reduce injury severity, and are cost-effective for insurers.
An analysis of inclusion gaps in sustainable development themes: Findings from a review of recent social work literature:

Recently, humans have negatively altered ecosystems more rapidly and extensively than in any other time in human history, contributing to gains in well-being and economic development for some, while threatening the security of most, particularly oppressed populations. We comprehensively reviewed recent social work literature (2010–2015) to examine gaps in environmental sustainability themes relevant to social work practice. Peer-reviewed manuscripts, dissertations/theses and white papers were examined. A total of 71 papers (less than 1% of social work literature) met inclusion criteria. Although our call is to protect human health and well-being, recent literature does not account for sustainability even with evidence that environmental issues directly impact clients, hindering practice efficacy.