cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ventricular apparent diffusion coefficient measurements in patients with neoplastic leptomeningeal disease

To test the hypothesis that intraventricular ADC values can be used to determine the presence of neoplastic leptomeningeal disease (LMD). ADC values were measured at multiple sites in the ventricular system in 32 patients with cytologically-proven LMD and 40 control subjects. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to determine the mean difference of ADCs between the LMD and control groups after adjusting for ventricle size and tumor type. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis was performed and optimal ADC value cut-off point for predicting the presence of LMD. ADC was compared to T1 enhancement and FLAIR signal hyperintensity for determining the presence of LMD. After adjusting for ventricular volume and tumor type, the mid body of lateral ventricles showed no significant difference in ventricular volume and a significant difference in ADC values between the control and LMD groups (p > 0.05). In the mid-body of the right lateral ventricle the AUC was 0.69 (95% CI 0.57–0.81) with an optimal ADC cut off point of 3.22 × 10− 9 m2/s (sensitivity, specificity; 0.72, 0.68). In the mid-body of left lateral ventricle the AUC was 0.7 (95% CI 0.58–0.82) with an optimal cut-off point of 3.23 × 10− 9 m2/s (0.81, 0.62). Using an average value of HU measurements in the lateral ventricles the AUC was 0.73 (95% CI 0.61–0.84) with an optimal cut off point was 3.11 × 10− 9 m2/s (0.78, 0.65). Compared to the T1 post-contrast series, ADC was predictive of the presence of LMD in the mid-body of the left lateral ventricle (p = 0.036). Complex interactions affect ADC measurements in patients with LMD. ADC values in the lateral ventricles may provide non-invasive clues to the presence of LMD.
Neural encoding of actual and imagined touch within human posterior parietal cortex

In the human posterior parietal cortex (PPC), single units encode high-dimensional information with partially mixed representations that enable small populations of neurons to encode many variables relevant to movement planning, execution, cognition, and perception. Here, we test whether a PPC neuronal population previously demonstrated to encode visual and motor information is similarly engaged in the somatosensory domain. We recorded neurons within the PPC of a human clinical trial participant during actual touch presentation and during a tactile imagery task. Neurons encoded actual touch at short latency with bilateral receptive fields, organized by body part, and covered all tested regions. The tactile imagery task evoked body part-specific responses that shared a neural substrate with actual touch. Our results are the first neuron-level evidence of touch encoding in human PPC and its cognitive engagement during a tactile imagery task, which may reflect semantic processing, attention, sensory anticipation, or imagined touch.
Angiogenesis in Wound Healing following Pharmacological and Toxicological Exposures

Toxicological and pharmacological exposures may accelerate or impede wound healing and tissue repair. These exposures impact the wound healing cascade and steps within the process including (1) hemostasis, (2) the inflammatory stage, (3) proliferation, and (4) maturation. Angiogenesis plays a critical role during the wound healing process via clot invasion and organization of vasculature throughout new connective tissue. This review examines how toxicological insults and pharmacotherapeutics impact the tissue healing process. We focus on four primary environmental exposures, namely, radiation, pharmacotherapeutics, metals, and dioxins for the scope of this review. Recent literature suggests that individuals with comorbidities such as autoimmune disorders or cardiometabolic diseases are most susceptible to angiogenic delays and wound healing deficits following toxicological or pharmacological insult. As newer drug-delivery systems and pharmaceutics become available, exposures to these compounds have led to improved wound healing by impacting molecular angiogenic pathways. Environmental and medical exposures from radiological or persistent pollutants may impede wound healing via these angiogenic factors. These data suggest that environmental exposures via metals, dioxins, exogenous radiation, or pharmaceutics will ultimately promote or diminish molecular angiogenic factors, such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and impact the wound healing cascade.
CenteringParenting - Forming a Community Inside the Medical Home through the Group Well Child Visit

Early life experiences influence brain development and have significant implications on future health and developmental outcomes. Children raised in environments with significant social stressors, limited stimulation and lack of exposure to positive interactions are likely to have delays in language, vocabulary, and social skills - all factors critical for school readiness. CenteringParenting, a two generation intervention, supports healthy parent-child interactions and early learning through education and experiential learning within the framework of group well child visits. Participants are actively engaged in their child’s assessment at every visit: tracking their growth, …
LRP1 and SORL1 regulate tau internalization and degradation and enhance tau seeding

ABSTRACT The identification of the apoE receptor, LRP1, as an endocytic receptor for tau raises several questions about LRP1s’ role in tauopathies. Is internalized tau, like other LRP1 ligands, delivered to lysosomes for degradation? Does LRP1 internalize pathological tau leading to cytosolic seeding? Do other, related receptors participate in these processes? We confirm that LRP1 rapidly internalizes tau, leading to efficient lysosomal degradation. Employing brain homogenates from human Alzheimer brain, we find that LRP1 also mediates cytosolic tau seeding. We additionally found that another apoE receptor, SORL1, a gene implicated in AD risk, also mediates tau endocytosis, degradation, and release into the cytoplasm of seed competent species. These data suggest a role for these apoE receptors in tau uptake, as well as the competing processes of degradation and release to the cytoplasm. The balance of these processes may be fundamental to spread of neuropathology across the brain in Alzheimer disease.
The Effects of Perceived Pain in the Past Month on Prefrontal Cortex Activation Patterns Assessed During Cognitive and Motor Performances in Older Adults.

Objective Pain is prevalent and functionally impactful in older adults. The prefrontal cortex is involved in pain perception, attentional control, and cortical control of locomotion. Although pain is a known moderator of attentional capacity, its moderating effect on cortical control of locomotion has not been assessed. This study aimed to examine the effects of subjective pain on changes in functional near-infrared spectroscopy-derived measurements of oxygenated hemoglobin (HbO2), gait velocity, and cognitive accuracy from single- to dual-task walking conditions among older adults. Subjects The sample consisted of 383 healthy older adults (55% female). Methods Participants completed two single tasks (Single-Task-Walk [STW] and Cognitive Interference [Alpha]) and the Dual-Task-Walk (DTW), during which participants performed the two single tasks simultaneously. The Medical Outcomes Study Pain Severity Scale and Pain Effects Scale were used to assess pain severity and interference. ProtoKinetics Movement Analysis Software was used to assess gait velocity and rate of correct letter generation to assess cognitive accuracy. Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) was used to assess HbO2 during active walking. Results Linear mixed-effects models revealed that HbO2 increased from single- to dual-task conditions. Perceived pain presence was associated with an attenuated increase in HbO2 from Alpha to DTW. Among those with pain, worse pain severity was associated with an attenuated increase in HbO2 from STW to DTW. Pain interference did not moderate the increase in HbO2 from single to dual tasks. Pain did not have a moderating effect on behavioral outcomes. Conclusions Task-related changes in the hemodynamic response in the prefrontal cortex during walking may be a sensitive marker of the effects of subjective pain on brain function in healthy older adults.
Reactive Oxygen Species, Mitochondrial Membrane Potential, and Cellular Membrane Potential Are Predictors of E-Liquid Induced Cellular Toxicity.

Introduction The use of flavors in electronic cigarettes appeals to adults and never-smoking youth. Consumption has rapidly increased over the last decade, and in the U.S. market alone, there are over 8000 unique flavors. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has begun to regulate e-liquids, but many have not been tested, and their impact, both at the cellular level, and on human health remains unclear. Methods We tested e-liquids on the human cell line HEK293T and measured toxicity, mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨ m), reactive oxygen species production (ROS), and cellular membrane potential (Vm) using high-throughput screening (HTS) approaches. Our HTS efforts included single-dose and 16-point dose-response curves, which allowed testing of ≥90 commercially available e-liquids in parallel to provide a rapid assessment of cellular effects as a proof of concept for a fast, preliminary toxicity method. We also investigated the chemical composition of the flavors via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Results We found that e-liquids caused a decrease in ΔΨ m and Vm and an increase in ROS production and toxicity in a dose-dependent fashion. In addition, the presence of five specific chemical components: vanillin, benzyl alcohol, acetoin, cinnamaldehyde, and methyl-cyclopentenolone, but not nicotine, were linked with the changes observed in the cellular traits studied. Conclusion Our data suggest that ΔΨ m, ROS, Vm, and toxicity may be indicative of the extent of cell death upon e-liquid exposure. Further research on the effect of flavors should be prioritized to help policy makers such as the FDA to regulate e-liquid composition. Implications E-liquid cellular toxicity can be predicted using parameters amenable to HTS. Our data suggest that ΔΨ m, ROS, Vm, and toxicity may be indicative of the extent of cell death upon e-liquid exposure, and this toxicity is linked to the chemical composition, that is, flavoring components. Further research on the effect of flavors should be prioritized to help policy makers such as the FDA to regulate e-liquid composition.
Mitochondrial Secrets of Youthfulness.

SUMMARY The genetic basis of youthfulness is poorly understood. The aging of skin depends on both intrinsic factors and extrinsic factors. Intrinsic factors include personal genetics, and extrinsic factors include environmental exposure to solar radiation and pollution. We recently reported the critical role of the mitochondria in skin aging phenotypes: wrinkle formation, hair graying, hair loss, and uneven skin pigmentation. This article focuses on molecular mechanisms, specifically mitochondrial mechanisms underlying skin aging. This contribution describes the development of an mitochondrial DNA depleter-repleter mouse model and its usefulness in developing strategies and identifying potential agents that can either prevent, slow, or mitigate skin aging, lentigines, and hair loss. The ongoing research efforts include the transplantation of young mitochondria to rejuvenate aging skin and hair to provide youthfulness in humans.
Rare popliteal mass following retrograde nailing of ballistic femur fracture: a case report.

Introduction Civilian ballistic injuries are commonly associated with fracture, vascular injury, and soft tissue trauma. Posttraumatic pseudoaneurysms represent an extremely rare subset of vascular injuries following ballistic fractures. Case We present the rare case of a posttraumatic pseudoaneurysm that occurred after retrograde femoral nailing of a ballistic distal femur fracture. The patient presented in clinic postoperatively with a pulsatile popliteal mass. Distal pulses were intact but subsequent ultrasound and angiography revealed a pseudoaneurysm of the distal superficial femoral artery. The pseudoaneurysm was subsequently treated with a covered stent and the patient's recovery was uncomplicated. Conclusion Due to the potential life and limb-threating complications from pseudoaneurysm rupture, this case report emphasizes the early recognition and expeditious management of vascular complications following ballistic fractures in the civilian population.
Hybrid-Mode PFM Control for LLC Resonant Converter

This article presents a new hybrid-mode pulse-frequency-modulation control method for an LLC resonant converter. In the proposed control method, the primary-side resonant current sensing signal of the current-mode control variable is combined with a ramp signal of the voltage-mode control variable to determine an operating frequency. Then, the proposed control method mainly modulates the ramp signal in accordance with the output load condition. Therefore, the control-to-output voltage transfer function has both the current - mode control and voltage-mode control characteristics that provide fast frequency response and stable output voltage regulation in a light-load condition. In addition, since the ramp signal is also used for slope compensation of the resonant current sensing signal, an external slope compensation circuit is not required. A small-signal ac modeling and loop analysis of the proposed method verify the advantages. The proposed control method is implemented into a field programmable gate array (FPGA) board with an analog front-end board. An experiment is carried out on a 288-W LLC resonant converter. The result shows that the proposed control method provides fast dynamic performance and stable operation under a light-load condition without an additional slope compensation circuit.
Volumetric fluorescence microscopy using convolutional recurrent neural networks

We demonstrate a convolutional recurrent neural network-based volumetric imaging framework, termed Recurrent-MZ. Using a few 2D fluorescence microscopy images as its input, Recurrent-MZ provides a 50-fold extended depth-of-field in imaging of 3D fluorescent samples.
Measuring CPT-1-mediated respiration in permeabilized cells and isolated mitochondria.

Carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1 (CPT-1) is a rate-controlling enzyme for long-chain fatty acid oxidation. This manuscript provides protocols for measuring CPT-1-mediated respiration in permeabilized, adherent cell monolayers and mitochondria freshly isolated from tissue, along with examples to assess the potency and specificity of interventions targeting CPT-1. Strengths of the approach include ease, speed, and breadth of analysis, whereas drawbacks include loss of physiological regulation in reductionist systems and indirect assessment of CPT-1 enzymatic activity. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Divakaruni et al. (2018).
Factors Associated with Health Care Utilization at the End of Life for Patients with Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

Background: Patients (≥60 years) with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) often receive intense health care utilization at the end of life (EOL). However, factors associated with their health care use at the EOL are unknown. Methods: We conducted a secondary analysis of 168 deceased patients with AML within the United States. We assessed quality of life (QOL) (Functional-Assessment-Cancer-Therapy-Leukemia), and psychological distress (Hospital-Anxiety-and-Depression Scale [HADS]; Patient-Health-Questionnaire-9 [PHQ-9]) at diagnosis. We used multivariable logistic regression models to examine the association between patient-reported factors and the following outcomes: (1) hospitalizations in the last 7 days of life, (2) receipt of chemotherapy in the last 30 days of life, and (3) hospice utilization. Results: About 66.7% (110/165) were hospitalized in the last 7 days of life, 51.8% (71/137) received chemotherapy in the last 30 days of life, and 40.7% (70/168) utilized hospice. In multivariable models, higher education (odds ratio [OR] = 1.54, p = 0.006) and elevated baseline depression symptoms (PHQ-9: OR = 1.09, p = 0.028) were associated with higher odds of hospitalization in the last seven days of life, while higher baseline QOL (OR = 0.98, p = 0.009) was associated with lower odds of hospitalization at the EOL. Higher baseline depression symptoms were associated with receipt of chemotherapy at the EOL (HADS-Depression: OR = 1.10, p = 0.042). Higher education was associated with lower hospice utilization (OR = 0.356, p = 0.024). Conclusions: Patients with AML who are more educated, with higher baseline depression symptoms and lower QOL, were more likely to experience high health care utilization at the EOL. These populations may benefit from interventions to optimize the quality of their EOL care.
Solution structure of the loop B domain from the hairpin ribozyme

The hairpin ribozyme is a small catalytic RNA with a unique two-domain structure. Here we present the solution structure of the loop B domain of the hairpin ribozyme, which contains most of the catalytically essential nucleotides. The 38-nucleotide domain contains a 16-nucleotide internal loop that forms one of the largest non-Watson–Crick segments of base pairing thus far determined by either NMR or crystallography. Since the solution structure of the smaller loop A domain has been previously solved, an NMR structure-based model of the 22,000 Mr hairpin ribozyme–substrate open complex emerges by joining the two domain structures. Strikingly, catalytically essential functional groups for the loop B domain are concentrated within an expanded minor groove, presenting a clear docking surface for the loop A domain.
Noninvasive ventilation allows gastrostomy tube placement in patients with advanced ALS

The use of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation for ventilatory support during percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube placement is described in five patients with advanced ALS, four having significant bulbar symptoms. No respiratory complications occurred in any of these patients, who were considered to be at high risk for PEG placement because of severe ventilatory impairment and might not otherwise have been considered for this procedure.
Adenovirus vector-mediated in vivo gene transfer into adult murine retina.

Purpose To determine whether a reporter gene can be introduced into the adult mammalian retina in vivo through means of a recombinant replication-deficient adenovirus. Methods A dilution series of purified Ad.CMVlacZ ranging from 10(5) to 10(11) pfu/ml was prepared and microinjected into the subretinal space of adult CD-1 mice. This virus contained the cytomegalovirus (CMV)-promoted Escherichia coli reporter gene, lacZ. LacZ expression was assessed in enucleated eyes from 0 to 95 days after injection by beta-galactosidase (beta-Gal) assay. Results The efficiency of transfection increased as a function of concentration of recombinant virus injected. Eyes injected with greater than 10(7) pfu of Ad.CMVlacZ demonstrated beta-Gal activity lasting at least 95 days. LacZ expression was apparent only in those cells directly exposed to the adenovirus. LacZ expression was observed in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) at high efficiency at 48 hours after exposure. By 2 weeks after injection of > 10(7) pfu, lacZ was also expressed in photoreceptors, but at lower density. Conclusions These results demonstrate that high efficiency stable transfer of functional genes can be achieved in vivo in post-mitotic mammalian retina using recombinant adenoviral vectors. Adenovirus vectors appear to be a promising means for delivering therapeutic genes in vivo to the mammalian neural retina and particularly to the RPE.
Rationality in Economics: Constructivist and Ecological Forms

Part I. Rationality, Markets, and Institutions: 1. Rediscovering the Scottish philosophers 2. On two forms of rationality Part II. Impersonal Exchange: The Extended Order of the Market: 3. Relating the two concepts of a rational order 4. Market institutions and performance 5. Asymmetric information and equilibrium without process 6. Spectrum auctions and combinatorial designs: theory and experiment 7. Psychology and markets 8. What is rationality? Part III. Personal Social Exchange: 9. Emergent order without the law 10. The effects of context on behavior Appendix: behavioral deviation from prediction: error, confusion, or evidence of brain function? 11. Investment trust games: effects of gains from exchange in dictator giving 12. Reciprocity in trust games Part IV. Order and Rationality in Method and Mind: 13. Rationality in science 14. Neuroeconomics: the internal order of the mind 15. A summary.
The changing challenges of collaborative algorithmics

It seems to be a truism that one can gain computational efficiency by enlisting more computers in the solution of a single computational problem. (We refer to such use of multiple computers as “collaborative computing.”) In order to realize the promise of collaborative computing, however, one must know how to exploit the strengths of the technology used to build the computing platform – the multiple computers and the networks that interconnect them – and how to avoid the weaknesses of the technology. Changes in technology – even apparently modest ones – often call for dramatic changes in algorithmic strategy. In this talk, I describe some of the challenges that the algorithm designer has faced as the dominant collaborative computing platforms have changed.
Tellurium and Selenium Resistance in Rhizobia and Its Potential Use for Direct Isolation of Rhizobium meliloti from Soil.

Forty-eight Rhizobium and Bradyrhizobium strains were screened for resistance to tellurite, selenite, and selenate. High levels of resistance to the metals were observed only in Rhizobium meliloti and Rhizobium fredii strains; the MICs were 2 to 8 mM for Te(IV), >200 mM for Se(VI), and 50 to 100 mM for Se(IV). Incorporation of Se and Te into growth media permitted us to directly isolate R. meliloti strains from soil. Mutant strains of rhizobia having decreased levels of Se and Te resistance were constructed by Tn5 mutagenesis and were found to have transposon insertions in DNA fragments of different sizes. Genomic DNAs from Ter rhizobium strains failed to hybridize with Ter determinants from plasmids RP4, pHH1508a, and pMER610.
The small subunit of the vaccinia virus early transcription factor contacts the transcription promoter DNA.

Abstract The vaccinia virus early transcription factor (VETF), in addition to the viral RNA polymerase, is required for efficient transcription of early genes in vitro. VETF is a heterodimeric protein that binds specifically to early gene promoters. In order to localize the VETF DNA binding domain, we have used photoreactive oligonucleotide probes with the sequence of the vaccinia virus growth factor promoter. The probes consisted of double-stranded oligonucleotides incorporating radiolabeled dAMP and 5-bromo-dUMP into sequences of the promoter known to contact VETF. Irradiation of a DNA probe having these nucleotides located upstream of the transcription start site in the presence of VETF resulted in the transfer of label to a polypeptide that comigrated with the small subunit of VETF. The label transfer reaction was shown to occur with the recombinant VETF small subunit in the absence of the large subunit. These results indicate that the small subunit comprises at least part of the VETF DNA binding domain and contacts the promoter in the region upstream of the transcription start site.
Lens Injury Stimulates Axon Regeneration in the Mature Rat Optic Nerve

In mature mammals, retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) are unable to regenerate their axons after optic nerve injury, and they soon undergo apoptotic cell death. However, a small puncture wound to the lens enhances RGC survival and enables these cells to regenerate their axons into the normally inhibitory environment of the optic nerve. Even when the optic nerve is intact, lens injury stimulates macrophage infiltration into the eye, Muller cell activation, and increased GAP-43 expression in ganglion cells across the entire retina. In contrast, axotomy, either alone or combined with intraocular injections that do not infringe on the lens, causes only a minimal change in GAP-43 expression in RGCs and a minimal activation of the other cell types. Combining nerve injury with lens puncture leads to an eightfold increase in RGC survival and a 100-fold increase in the number of axons regenerating beyond the crush site. Macrophage activation appears to play a key role, because intraocular injections of Zymosan, a yeast cell wall preparation, stimulated monocytes in the absence of lens injury and induced RGCs to regenerate their axons into the distal optic nerve.
An Inverse Scattering Theory for the Identical Particles and the 12C-12C Potential

We have applied the recently developed inverse scattering method of identical particles to determine the nature of the 12C — 12C potential between 14 and 33 MeV. The real part of the potential is found to be of non-monotonic molecular type and nearly energy independent. The imaginary part of the potential depends smoothly on the energy.
A post-beamforming processing technique for enhancing conventional pulse-ultrasound imaging contrast resolution

An object-dependent post-beamforming processing (PBP) technique is presented for improving conventional ultrasound imaging contrast resolution (CR). The technique is derived from the conventional delay-and-sum beamforming (DSB) algorithm and contains two major procedures. First, it utilizes the DSB results as an estimate of the actual image. Second, each estimated image pixel is processed by an object-dependent weighting factor for further suppressing sidelobe energy. Experimental results based on phantom data show that, with this technique, the sidelobe energy resulting from DSB can be significantly reduced. The system CR is thus improved. This CR improvement has also been quantitatively verified by image contrast to noise ratio (CNR) measurements. The algorithm can be implemented in real-time by adding a processing unit to the current conventional imaging system.
Induction of Experimental Chronic Arthritis in Rabbits by Cell-free Fragments of Erysipelothrix

A cell-free crude extract of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae injected by high pressure jet into the knee-joint of rabbits stimulated an acute, mild inflammatory reaction. Additional injections at 3-day intervals induced a chronic condition characterized by hyperplasia of the synovial cells and hypertrophy of the villi, due to infiltration by lymphocytes and plasma cells which formed aggregates resembling Allison-Ghormley bodies. There was also extensive proliferation of stroma vasculature and fibrous tissue. A similar jet injection of the diluent produced an early, transient, acute, and mild inflammation. A mechanism is postulated for fixation of one or more of the chemically characterized antigens in or near the synovium as a means of inducing the localized inflammatory response that predisposes the joint to infection.
Therapeutic plasma exchange: a technical and operational review

Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is an extracorporeal blood purification technique designed for the removal of large molecular weight substances. Examples of these substances include pathogenic autoantibodies, immune complexes, cryoglobulins, myeloma light chains, endotoxin and cholesterol containing lipoproteins. The basic premise of the treatment is that removal of these substances will allow for the reversal of the pathologic processes related to their presence. This review will cover the techniques for performing TPE, the kinetics of the removal of large molecules from the plasma and the benefits and risks of the different types of replacement fluids.
In vivo breath-hold (1) H MRS simultaneous estimation of liver proton density fat fraction, and T1 and T2 of water and fat, with a multi-TR, multi-TE sequence.

Author(s): Hamilton, Gavin; Middleton, Michael S; Hooker, Jonathan C; Haufe, William M; Forbang, Nketi I; Allison, Matthew A; Loomba, Rohit; Sirlin, Claude B | Abstract: PurposeTo examine the intra-examination repeatability of proton density fat fraction (PDFF) and T1 and T2 of liver water and fat as estimated by a novel multi-repetition time (TR)-echo time (TE) (1) H magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS)-stimulated echo acquisition mode (STEAM) sequence that acquires 32 spectra for a range of TRs and TEs in single breath-hold.Materials and methodsSixty-seven subjects undergoing liver MRI examinations at 3T had three multi-TR-TE sequences acquired consecutively in a single session. This sequence was designed to allow accurate estimation of T1 and T2 of both water and fat, as well as PDFF, in a single breath-hold. A standard long-TR, multi-TE sequence was also acquired to allow comparison of estimated PDFF. Regression and interclass correlation (ICC) analyses were performed.ResultsThere was strong agreement between PDFF estimated by the multi-TR-TE and long-TR, multi-TE sequences (slope 0.997; intercept -0.03; R = 0.997). The multi-TR-TE sequence had high repeatability for estimating PDFF (ICC = 0.999), water T2 (ICC = 0.920), water T1 (ICC = 0.845), and fat T2 (ICC = 0.760), and moderate repeatability for estimating fat T1 (ICC = 0.556).ConclusionA novel multi-TR-TE sequence can estimate PDFF and water and fat T1 and T2 in a single breath-hold. Refinement may be needed to improve repeatability for fat T1 estimation.
In the Museum of Man: Race, Anthropology and Empire in France, 1850-1950 (Conklin)

This work is a book review considering the title In the Museum of Man: Race, Anthropology and Empire in France, 1850-1950 by Alice L. Conklin.
769 High dose therapy and autologous bone marrow transplantation for relapsed or refractory hodgkin's disease: The impact of total body irradiation and involved field radiation therapy

One hundred patients with relapsed/refractory Hodgkin's disease (HD) were treated with either high dose carmustine(BCNU)/etoposide(VP16)/cyclophosphamide(Cy) or fractionated total body irradiation (fTBI)/Vpl6/Cy prior to autologousbone marrow transplantation (ABMT). In addition, 24 patients received involved field radiation therapy (RT) prior to (n = 18) or following (n = 6) ABMT. With a median follow-up of 30 months, 3-year actuarial freedom from relapse (FFR) and overall survival (OS) for the entire group are 65% and 63% respectively. By multivariate analyses, factors associated with recurrence were pleural disease ( P = 0.009), pulmonary metastases ( P = 0.004) and a poor response to cytoreductive therapy ( P = 0.003). FFR and OS following BCNU/VP16/Cy (67% and 62%) or fTBI/VP16/Cy (60% and 60%) were similar ( P = 0.51 and P = 0.49). A median RT dose of 30 Gy (range 14.4 Gy–45 Gy) was given to 67 sites in the 24 patients. Local failure occurred within 4 irradiated sites (6%) in two patients (8%). In patients with Ann Arbor stages I–III disease (n = 62), RT was associated with a trend toward improved FIR (92% -vs-67%, P = 0.09) and OS (86% -vs- 59%, P = 0.13). Among patients not previously irradiated (n = 39), RT was associated with a significant improvement in FFR (85% -vs- 55%, P = 0.05) and OS (93% -vs- 54%, P = 0.03). Treatment related mortality (including 2nd malignancies) was similar with or without fTBI (15% -vs- 14%) or RT (17% -vs-13%). In conjunction with high dose therapy and ABMT, RT is well tolerated, effectively controls local/regional disease, and may improve survival in selected patients.
Use of Preoperative MRI to Predict Vestibular Schwannoma Intraoperative Consistency and Facial Nerve Outcome

Objectives We sought to identify if preoperative schwannoma magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) intensities might predict intraoperative consistency. We then determined whether consistency correlated with facial nerve outcomes. Design Operative reports from 2000 to 2010 were searched for tumor description as either soft and/or suckable or firm and/or fibrous. Preoperative T1 and T2 sequences were then reviewed to identify intensities relative to gray matter. Facial nerve function was recorded at the time of most recent follow-up. Results Forty-six patients were included. No tumors were T1 hyperintense. Soft and firm schwannomas were equally likely to be T1 hypointense. On T2 sequences, however, soft schwannomas were more likely to be hyperintense (88% versus 14%, p < 0.005) whereas firm schwannomas were more likely to be hypointense (86% versus 6%, p < 0.005). There was a tendency for firm schwannomas to have worse facial nerve outcomes (43% versus 19%, p = 0.14). Conclusions Prediction of vestibular schwannoma intraoperative consistency based on T2 intensity seems promising. Furthermore, though not statistically significant, in this small pilot study firm schwannomas tended to have worse facial nerve outcomes. This potential ability to predict consistency and its correlation with facial nerve outcome may assist the surgeon in preoperative planning and patient counseling, though further data needs to be accumulated.
An Analysis of Artificial Intelligence Based Models for Describing Cornmunicative Choice

Workers in artificial intelligence (Al) have proposed various models for behavioral choice that can be adapted for use in descriptions of the knowledge and behavior of communicators. The use of AI-based models in this context assumes that the communicator can be conceived of as choosing an utterance from a set of relevant options. This view of “communicative choice” is consistent with “purposive” explanations for human action, but advocates of A1 models are not satisfied with the models, such as the practical syllogism, employed by “action” theorists. Instead, A1 modelers base their accounts of activity on models that are technically equivalent to high-level computer programs. Three types of AI-based models —plans, transition networks, and production systems —are reviewed, and the extent to which each can represent a set of “commonsense” notions about communication is analyzed. It apperirs that plans and transition networks, in their “pure” form, have the same advantap and disadvantages when used as models for communicative choice and that these strengths and weaknesses are complementary to those of production systems. While a hybrid model containing features of each may be ideal, it is not clear that such a model is feasible, and it may be best to apply each type of model to the situation it best represents.
Resolution of Individual Component Fluorescence Lifetimes from a Mixture of Trapped Ions by Laser-Induced Fluorescence/Ion Cyclotron Resonance†

We have measured the fluorescence lifetime (τ) of both pure C 6 F 5 H + and pure C 6 F 3 H 3 + confined in an open cylindrical (ICR) Penning trap as 44 ′ 2 ns and 51 ′ 2 ns, respectively, consistent (∼10%) with prior literature values in the absence of ion trapping and magnetic field. For an equimolar mixture of C 6 F 5 H + and C 6 F 3 H 3 + the effective lifetime, τ e f f , was 47 ′ 2 ns. Ion cyclotron-resonant azimuthal quadrupolar excitation successfully isolated either C 6 F 5 H + or C 6 F 3 H 3 + ions from the mixture, each with the same fluorescence lifetime as from a pure sample. The signal-to-noise ratio, ∼94:1, demonstrates the feasibility of observing fluorophores of lower quantum yield, such as tryptophan. This work represents the first determination of fluorescence lifetimes of organic ions in a Penning trap, and demonstrates the feasibility of resolving fluorescence from individual species in a chemically heterogeneous mixture by mass-selective ion cyclotron resonance.
The Negative Dominant Effects of T340M Mutation on Mammalian Pyruvate Kinase

A fundamental issue in allosteric regulatory enzymes is the identification of pathways of signal transmission. Rabbit muscle and kidney pyruvate kinase isozymes are ideal to address this issue because these isozymes exhibit different enzymatic regulatory patterns, and the sequence differences between these isozymes have identified the amino acid residues that alter their kinetic behavior. In an earlier study, Cheng et al. (Cheng, X., Friesen, R. H. E., and Lee, J. C. (1996) J. Biol. Chem. 271, 6313-6321), reported the effects of a threonine to methionine mutation at residue 340 in the muscle isozyme. In this study, the same mutation was effected in the kidney isozyme. Qualitatively, the same negative effects are observed in both isozymes, namely a significant decrease in catalytic efficiency and decrease in apparent affinity for phosphoenolpyruvate but no change in affinity for ADP, and a decrease in responsiveness to the presence of effectors, be it activator or inhibitor. Because the diversity in the primary sequence between these two isozymes does not alter the negative impact of the T340M mutation, it can be concluded that this mutation exerts a dominant, negative effect. The negative effects of T340M mutation on the kinetic properties imply that there is communication between residue 340 and the active site. Residue 340 is located at the 1,4 subunit interface; however, a T340M mutation enhances the dimerization affinity along the 1,2 subunit interface. Thus, this study has identified a communication network among the active site, residue 340, and the 1,2 subunit interface.
THE FIRST ATLASES

This paper treats the three collections of maps which set the standards of style, format, and content for the first centuries of atlas publication: Ortelius' Theatrum Orbis Terrarum, 1570; Braun and Hogenbcrg's Civitates Orbis Terrarum, 1572; and Waghenaer's Spieghel der Zeevnerdt, 1584. Topics examined include ancient forms of atlases, their makers and circumstances; the first atlases, their editors, engravers, and printers; their physical aspect and content; and their historical influence. Cette etude porte sur les trois collections de cartes qui ont servi de modeles pour fixer le style, le format et le contenu des atlas anciens: le Theatrum Orbis Terrarum d'Ortelius (1570), le Civitates Orbis Terrarum de Braun et Hogenberg (1572) et le Spieghel der Zeevaerdt de Waghenaer (1584). Les sujets abordes comprennent les anciennes presentations des atlas, leurs auteurs et les details connexes; les premiers atlas, leurs editeurs, graveurs et imprimeurs; l'aspect physique et le contenu des atlas; enfin, leur inf...
The Road Not Taken? Changes in Welfare Entry During the 1990s*

This paper uses data from the 1990 and 1996 Survey of Income and Program Participation to assess whether changes in welfare policy affected welfare entry rates. It also assesses whether changes in entry rates are accompanied by improvements in the circumstances of families that choose not to receive welfare. The authors conclude that policy shifts and changes in attitudes toward work and welfare are the most likely explanations for the drop in welfare entry rates. The bulk of the change came after the implementation of welfare reform. Declining entry rates are not accompanied by substantial improvements in the well-being of low-income single mothers who are not on welfare.
First-order resonance Raman profile lineshapes from optical absorption lineshapes — a consistency test of standard theoretical assumptions

Abstract It is pointed out that an exact relation holds between the lineshapes of optical absorption and first-order resonance Raman profiles under commonly-used theoretical assumptions. This relation is utilized to predict profile lineshapes from measured absorption data for β-carotene and cyanocobalamin and the results are compared with measured profiles.
Freeze-fracture analysis of photoreceptor cell outer segment disks after minimal extraction of rhodopsin

The outer segment disk membranes in the photoreceptor cells of the guinea pig retinas were analyzed after partial extraction of rhodopsin with cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). During the earliest stages of rhodopsin extraction, the particulate structure of the particulate face of the disk membranes becomes less dense with the appearance of smooth areas extending between the particles. These smooth areas could occupy a large part of the particulate membrane face. The disk membranes could still retain a planar structure. A transformation of the disk membranes into small vesicles was also evident and was considered to correspond to a stage where the extraction has progressed beyond the earliest stages. Extraction with digitonin led to an immediate disintegration of the disk membranes into vesicles. Since CTAB can preferentially solubilize rhodopsin without extracting the membrane lipids ( Heller, 1968; Biochemistry , 7 , 2906 ), the observations were considered to support the interpretation of Sjostrand and Kreman (1978, J. Ultrastruct. Res. , 65 , 195) , that the surface structure of the particulate membrane face is due predominantly to rhodopsin molecules forming a separate layer in the disk membrane.
Malignant rhabdoid tumour of the kidney occurring simultaneously with a brain tumour: a report of two cases and review of the literature

Malignant rhabdoid tumour of the kidney (MRTK), an uncommon aggressive neoplasm of children, is now recognised as a separate entity from Wilms' tumour with distinct clinical and pathological features. MRTK is unique in its significant association with primary brain tumours or brain metastases. We report two cases, aged 2 and 6 months, of MRTK occurring concurrently with a brain tumour. Radical nephrectomy and ventriculo-peritoneal shunting were performed. Both patients expired 2 and 6 months later despite receiving aggressive post-operative chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Conclusion: malignant rhabdoid tumour of the kidney is an uncommon neoplasm of early childhood with a poor prognosis. Due to its significant association with brain tumours or early brain metastases, concurrent brain computer tomographic examination is essential for all patients with this disease.
Bilateral compartmental syndrome after prolonged surgery in the lithotomy position

Surgical procedures necessitating patient placement in physiologically abnormal positions can be associated with certain injuries usually arising from compression of nerves or muscles. Bilateral compartmental syndrome of the lower extremities is a grave complication, which, if unrecognized, can lead to either permanent neuromuscular dysfunction or limb loss. We report a case of bilateral four-compartment syndrome occurring after prolonged surgery with the patient in the lithotomy position.
Interacting Roles of Attention and Visual Salience in V4

Attention increases the contrast gain of V4 neurons, causing them to respond to an attended stimulus as though its contrast had increased. When multiple stimuli appear within a neuron's receptive field (RF), the neuron responds primarily to the attended stimulus. This suggests that cortical cells may be "hard wired" to respond preferentially to the highest-contrast stimulus in their RF, and neural systems for attention capitalize on this mechanism by dynamically increasing the effective contrast of the stimulus that is task relevant. To test this, we varied the relative contrast of two stimuli within the recorded neurons' RFs, while the monkeys attended away to another location. Increasing the physical contrast of one stimulus caused V4 neurons to respond preferentially to that stimulus and reduced their responses to competing stimuli. When attention was directed to the lower-contrast stimulus, it partially overcame the influence of a competing, higher-contrast stimulus.
Villous tumors of the duodenum: A clinicopathologic study

Eight villous tumors of the duodenum were found and studied in a review of surgical and autopsy material collected over 30 years. Although the number of cases is small, it is nevertheless one of the largest single series on this lesion that has been reported. The purposes of the study were (1) to describe the histopathology of the lesions and (2) to test the diagnostic criteria of malignancy previously proposed in the literature. Of the large number of criteria studied, none, alone or in combination, proved reliable indicators of malignancy; even in this small series exceptions could be found. Of all the criteria tested, however, secondary gland formation was found to be the most reliable. The value of endoscopic biopsies in establishing the preoperative diagnosis of malignancy in this lesion seems to be analogous to that in similar colonic lesions. Prognostic and therapeutic criteria are discussed. In addition, the pertinent literature is reviewed.
Density functional approximation for the quasiparticle properties of simple metals. I. Theory and electron gas calculations

Calculations of the self-energy of the electron gas for energies near the Fermi energy are presented. The results of these calculations are required to quantify a previously suggested approximation for the self-energy of real metals. Two separate types of improvement on the random-phase approximation (RPA) for the self-energy are considered. The first type is similar to the Hubbard approximation while the second type explicitly evaluates terms of second and third order in the renormalised interaction expansion for the self-energy. Local exchange-correlation potentials from these and other recent calculations and parameterised in a form that will be useful in bandstructure calculations. Results for the correlation contribution to the ground-state energy are also obtained and inciate that RPA gives results that are about 25% too large at the lowest metallic densities.
The relationship between better-eye and integrated visual field mean deviation and visual disability.

Objective To determine the extent of difference between better-eye visual field (VF) mean deviation (MD) and integrated VF (IVF) MD among Salisbury Eye Evaluation (SEE) subjects and a larger group of glaucoma clinic subjects and to assess how those measures relate to objective and subjective measures of ability/performance in SEE subjects. Design Retrospective analysis of population- and clinic-based samples of adults. Participants A total of 490 SEE and 7053 glaucoma clinic subjects with VF loss (MD ≤−3 decibels [dB] in at least 1 eye). Methods Visual field testing was performed in each eye, and IVF MD was calculated. Differences between better-eye and IVF MD were calculated for SEE and clinic-based subjects. In SEE subjects with VF loss, models were constructed to compare the relative impact of better-eye and IVF MD on driving habits, mobility, self-reported vision-related function, and reading speed. Main Outcome Measures Difference between better-eye and IVF MD and relationship of better-eye and IVF MD with performance measures. Results The median difference between better-eye and IVF MD was 0.41 dB (interquartile range [IQR], −0.21 to 1.04 dB) and 0.72 dB (IQR, 0.04–1.45 dB) for SEE subjects and clinic-based patients with glaucoma, respectively, with differences of ≥2 dB between the 2 MDs observed in 9% and 18% of the groups, respectively. Among SEE subjects with VF loss, both MDs demonstrated similar associations with multiple ability and performance metrics as judged by the presence/absence of a statistically significant association between the MD and the metric, the magnitude of observed associations (odds ratios, rate ratios, or regression coefficients associated with 5-dB decrements in MD), and the extent of variability in the metric explained by the model ( R 2 ). Similar associations of similar magnitude also were noted for the subgroup of subjects with glaucoma and subjects in whom better-eye and IVF MD differed by ≥2 dB. Conclusions The IVF MD rarely differs from better-eye MD, and similar associations between VF loss and visual disability are obtained using either MD. Unlike better-eye MD, IVF measurements require extra software/calculation. As such, information from studies using better-eye MD can be more easily integrated into clinical decision-making, making better-eye MD a robust and meaningful method for reporting VF loss severity. Financial Disclosure(s) The author(s) have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article.