cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Carcinosarcoma of the Prostate Replacing the Entire Lower Genitourinary Tract

Less than 100 cases of prostate carcinosarcoma have been described in published studies. Most of these cases describe symptoms due to bladder outlet obstruction that typically results in transurethral resection of the prostate. Our patient presented with tenesmus and stranguria due to prostate carcinosarcoma that developed years after being treated with external radiation and androgen deprivation for prostate adenocarcinoma. Because of the patient's escalating symptoms, a pelvic exenteration with creation of urinary and fecal diversions was performed. Despite the dismal survival associated with prostate carcinosarcoma, palliative surgical extirpation can be successful in patients with debilitating pain.
Relationship between genealogical distance and breeding behaviour in oats (Avena sativa L.)

Eight oat cultivars and experimental lines from four germplasm sources were crossed in a diallel mating design without reciprocals. F1 heterosis for grain yield was evaluated in two experiments, and 48 F2-derived lines from each of the 28 matings were evaluated for bundle weight, grain yield, straw yield, harvest index, height, and heading date in two experiments. Number of transgressive segregates per trait and generalized genetic variance were calculated for each mating. Genealogical distance for each mating was obtained by using coefficient of kinship based on the pedigree of the parents. The relationship between genealogical distance and the three types of breeding behaviour was examined via correlation and regression. Significant correlations occurred only for genealogical distance with numbers of transgressive segregates for height and with generalized genetic variances. Both were positive. Significant heterosis was observed for matings of more distantly related parents. Regressions on genealogical distance, when significant, were linear. Genealogical distance between parents was positive associated with diversity on the basis of breeding behavior.
Hyperglycemia Predicts Persistently Lower Muscle Strength With Aging

OBJECTIVE Persons with diabetes have accelerated muscle loss compared with their counterparts. The relationship of hyperglycemia per se to declines in muscle function has not been explored, yet has implications for developing appropriate intervention strategies to prevent muscle loss. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We examined 984 participants aged 25–96 years in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (2003–2011) with HbA1c, knee extensor strength (isokinetic dynamometer) and lean body mass (DEXA) measured at baseline. Participants had repeated measurements up to 7.5 years later. Muscle quality was defined as knee extensor strength/leg lean mass. Participants were categorized by HbA1c quartile (<5.5, 5.5–5.79, 5.8–6.09, and ≥6.1% or <37, 37–40, 40–43, and ≥43 mmol/mol). Mixed-effects regression models were used to examine the regression of muscle outcomes on HbA1c. RESULTS Muscle strength and quality were significantly lower across HbA1c quartiles (both P < 0.001), without differences in muscle mass at baseline. Comparing highest versus lowest HbA1c quartiles and adjusting for age, race, sex, weight, and height, strength was significantly lower (−4.70 ± 2.30 N · m; P value trend = 0.02) and results unchanged after adjustment for physical activity ( P value trend = 0.045), but of borderline significance after additional adjustment for peripheral neuropathy ( P value trend = 0.05). Adjusting for demographics, muscle quality was significantly lower (−0.32 ± 0.15 N · m/kg; P value trend = 0.02) in the highest versus lowest HbA1c quartiles but differences attenuated after adjusting for weight and height (−0.25 ± 0.15 N · m/kg; P value trend = 0.07). Muscle mass measures were similar across HbA1c quartiles. CONCLUSIONS Hyperglycemia is associated with persistently lower muscle strength with aging, but this effect may be mediated, at least in part, by peripheral neuropathy. Future studies should explore if better glycemic control can preserve muscle function in diabetes.
Thalidomide maintenance following high-dose melphalan with autologous stem cell support in myeloma.

Abstract Background Recent experience with thalidomide maintenance after high-dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell support has demonstrated improvement in progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). We further explored the tolerability and efficacy of lower doses of maintenance thalidomide in this single-institution study. Patients and Methods Thirty-eight patients with myeloma were enrolled and treated with melphalan 200 mg/m 2 followed by autologous stem cell transplantation. Thalidomide 50 mg per day was started on day ≥ 60 after recovery of blood counts and was escalated to a maximum dose of 200 mg per day. Responses were assessed at 2 months, 1 year, and 2 years after transplantation. Results Of the 38 enrolled patients, 7 patients never received thalidomide. Among 31 patients receiving thalidomide, complete or very good partial responses were observed in 65% and 42% of patients at 1 and 2 years, respectively. Tolerability was a major issue, with only 17 patients completing 1 year of thalidomide. The goal of dosing 200 mg per day was achieved in just 17 of 31 patients, and the median tolerated thalidomide dose was 100 mg per day. Sensory neuropathy was the primary reason for dose modification and discontinuation. No thromboembolic events were observed. The median PFS was 20.8 months, and the median OS was > 60 months. Conclusion Thalidomide maintenance at a goal dose of 200 mg per day was not feasible in this population, with our data suggesting that 100 mg per day is a more reasonable maintenance dose.
β-Cell Glucose Toxicity, Lipotoxicity, and Chronic Oxidative Stress in Type 2 Diabetes

The relentless decline in β-cell function frequently observed in type 2 diabetic patients, despite optimal drug management, has variously been attributed to glucose toxicity and lipotoxicity. The former theory posits hyperglycemia, an outcome of the disease, as a secondary force that further damages β-cells. The latter theory suggests that the often-associated defect of hyperlipidemia is a primary cause of β-cell dysfunction. We review evidence that patients with type 2 diabetes continually undergo oxidative stress, that elevated glucose concentrations increase levels of reactive oxygen species in β-cells, that islets have intrinsically low antioxidant enzyme defenses, that antioxidant drugs and overexpression of antioxidant enzymes protect β-cells from glucose toxicity, and that lipotoxicity, to the extent it can be attributable to hyperlipidemia, occurs only in the context of preexisting hyperglycemia, whereas glucose toxicity can occur in the absence of hyperlipidemia.
Allergen-IgE complexes trigger CD23-dependent CCL20 release from human intestinal epithelial cells.

Background & Aims: In food allergic individuals, exposure to food allergens by the oral route can trigger immediate (within minutes) local hypersensitivity reactions in the intestine followed by a late-phase inflammatory response. Previous work has shown that CD23 is constitutively expressed by human intestinal epithelial cells and mediates the uptake of allergen-IgE complexes. We hypothesized that allergen-IgE complexes could also signal via CD23 to trigger an inflammatory cascade in the local environment. Methods: Caco-2 monolayers were stimulated with human IgE-antigen (Ag) complexes. IL-8 and CCL20 mRNA and protein were determined by RT-PCR and ELISA, respectively. Signaling pathways were assessed by immunoblotting. Endogenous CD23 expression was knocked down by stable transfection with CD23 shRNA retroviral plasmid. Migration assays were performed using human monocyte-derived dendritic cells. Results: Stimulation of Caco-2 cells with IgE-Ag complexes triggered upregulation of IL-8 and CCL20 at the mRNA and protein level. Allergen complexes induced phosphorylation of ERK and JNK, but not p38 MAP kinase or NK-κB, and resulted in AP-1 activation. Cross-linking of CD23 replicated the findings with IgE-Ag complexes, and silencing of CD23 expression abrogated the response to allergen-IgE complexes. Supernatant from IgE-Ag-stimulated epithelial cells induced migration of dendritic cells in a CCL20-dependent manner. Finally, immunostaining of duodenal biopsies demonstrated that CCL20 was constitutively expressed by epithelial cells in vivo. Conclusions: Signaling via epithelial CD23 may participate in the late-phase inflammatory response by the release of chemokines capable of recruiting antigen presenting cells and effector cells of allergic inflammation.
AAE and AAPD symposium overview: emerging science in pulp therapy--new insights into dilemmas and controversies.

The understanding of the caries process and its effect on the pulp is presented in the context that caries does develop in various rates of progression. Early in the caries process, the pulp reflects changes within lesion activity. Thus, the early pulp response is reversible. Later, the rate of caries progression is reflected by the quality of the tertiary dentin. Slowly progressing lesions create tertiary dentin resembling normal tubular dentin. Rapidly progressing lesions lead to the production of atubular dentin or complete absence of tertiary dentin, as well as pulp necrosis and apical pathology. Finally, the nature of the untreated deep carious lesion is an ecosystem that might undergo significant changes. The untreated lesion is temporarily converted from an active and closed lesion environment into one that is open and slowly progressing. The analysis of untreated carious lesions has transformed the treatment philosophy of deep carious lesions. (J Endod 2008;34:S2-S5)
Effects of structure and serial position on memory errors in musical performance

The purpose of the experiments reported in this article was to determine whether there is a predictable pattern to errors during a musical memorisation task. Based on previous literature, it was hy...
Neural Mechanisms Underlying Learning following Semantic Mediation Treatment in a case of Phonologic Alexia

Patients with phonologic alexia can be trained to read semantically impoverished words (e.g., functors) by pairing them with phonologically-related semantically rich words (e.g, nouns). What mechanisms underlie success in this cognitive re-training approach? Does the mechanism change if the skill is “overlearned”, i.e., practiced beyond criterion? We utilized fMRI pre- and post-treatment, and after overlearning, to assess treatment-related functional reorganization in a patient with phonologic alexia, two years post left temporoparietal stroke. Pre-treatment, there were no statistically significant differences in activation profiles across the sets of words. Post-treatment, accuracy on the two trained sets improved. Compared with untrained words, reading trained words recruited larger and more significant clusters of activation in the right hemisphere, including right inferior frontal and inferior parietal cortex. Post-overlearning, with near normal performance on overlearned words, predominant activation shifted to left hemisphere regions, including perilesional activation in superior parietal lobe, when reading overlearned vs. untrained words.
Paediatric services within the primary health care system in suburban areas.

. Hojer, B. and Olin, P. (Department of Paediatrics, Huddinge Hospital, Sachsska Children's Hospital and St. Goran's Children's Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden). Paediatric services within the primary health care system in suburban areas. Results from a few studies on community paediatrics in suburbs of Stockholm are presented. Pattern of diagnoses, utilization of care and social and psychological team work are discussed. Goals of the paediatric service in the primary care are set up and a distribution of duties between different professionals is suggested.
Mapping the Encapsidation Determinants of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus

Encapsidation of retroviral RNA involves specific interactions between viral proteins and cis -acting genomic RNA sequences. Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) RNA encapsidation determinants appear to be more complex and dispersed than those of murine retroviruses. Feline lentiviral (feline immunodeficiency virus [FIV]) encapsidation has not been studied. To gain comparative insight into lentiviral encapsidation and to optimize FIV-based vectors, we used RNase protection assays of cellular and virion RNAs to determine packaging efficiencies of FIV deletion mutants, and we studied replicative phenotypes of mutant viruses. Unlike the case for other mammalian retroviruses, the sequences between the major splice donor (MSD) and the start codon of gag contribute negligibly to FIV encapsidation. Moreover, molecular clones having deletions in this region were replication competent. In contrast, sequences upstream of the MSD were important for encapsidation, and deletion of the U5 element markedly reduced genomic RNA packaging. The contribution of gag sequences to packaging was systematically investigated with subgenomic FIV vectors containing variable portions of the gag open reading frame, with all virion proteins supplied in trans . When no gag sequence was present, packaging was abolished and marker gene transduction was absent. Inclusion of the first 144 nucleotides (nt) of gag increased vector encapsidation to detectable levels, while inclusion of the first 311 nt increased it to nearly wild-type levels and resulted in high-titer FIV vectors. However, the identified proximal gag sequence is necessary but not sufficient, since viral mRNAs that contain all coding regions, with or without as much as 119 nt of adjacent upstream 5′ leader, were excluded from encapsidation. The results identify a mechanism whereby FIV can encapsidate its genomic mRNA in preference to subgenomic mRNAs.
A rapid method of evaluating different compounds as inhibitors of urease activity in soils

Abstract A simple method of studying the abilities of different compounds to inhibit urease activity in soils is described. It involves determination of the effect of the test compound on the amount of urea hydrolyzed by incubation of soils with urea and toluene at 37°C for 5 hr, urea hydrolysis being estimated by colorimetric determination of urea in the extracts obtained by treatment of the incubated samples with 2 M KC1 containing a urease inhibitor (phenylmercuric acetate). The method is rapid and precise, and it is readily adapted for studies of the rate of inactivation of urease inhibitors in soils.
The Potential Benefits of the Pediatric Nonheartbeating Organ Donor

Objective. To examine the population of the pediatric intensive care unit in a large children's hospital to determine the potential importance of pedi- atric nonheartbeating organ donors (NHBDs). Study Design. We analyzed retrospectively the 6307 admissions to the pediatric intensive care unit at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia from January 1992 to July 1996 to identify all deaths. The hospital records of the children who had died were then reviewed to deter- mine the mode of death, organ donation rate of heart- beating donors, and the number of potential NHBDs. Criteria for the NHBD included the decision to forgo life-sustaining therapy, death occurring within 2 hours of withdrawal of life support, and the absence of sepsis, HIV, hepatitis, or extracranial malignancy. Results. Of 319 deaths, 102 (32.0%) died with resusci- tation, 84 (26.3%) were brain-dead, 111 (34.8%) had with- drawal of life support, and 22 (6.9%) were on do-not- resuscitate orders. Of the 84 brain-dead children, 74 (88.1%) were medically suitable heartbeating donors, and 43 (58.1%) donated organs. Of the 111 patients who had life support withdrawn, 31 (27.9%) qualified for NHBDs. Conclusions. The routine use of the NHBD has the potential to increase organ donation at our institution by 42%. We discuss the ethical issues relating to NHBDs required to properly include these patients as potential organ donors. Pediatrics 1998;101:1049 -1052; nonheart- beating organ donor, pediatrics, organ donation, trans- plantation, withdrawal of life support.
Identifying preferences for mobile health applications for self-monitoring and self-management: Focus group findings from HIV-positive persons and young mothers

Abstract Objective Self-management of risk behaviors is a cornerstone of future population health interventions. Using mobile phones for routine self-monitoring and feedback is a cost-efficient strategy for self-management and ecological momentary interventions (EMI). However, mobile health applications need to be designed to be highly attractive and acceptable to a broad range of user groups. To inform the design of an adaptable mobile health application we aimed to identify the dimensions and range of user preferences for application features by different user groups. Methods Five focus group interviews were conducted: two ( n =9; n =20) with people living with HIV (PLH) and three with young mothers ( n =6; n =8; n =10). Thematic analyses were conducted on the focus group sessions' notes and transcripts. Results Both groups considered customization of reminders and prompts as necessary, and goal setting, motivational messaging, problem solving, and feedback as attractive. For PLH, automated and location-based reminders for medication adherence and sharing data with healthcare providers were both acceptable and attractive features. Privacy protection and invasiveness were the primary concerns, particularly around location tracking, illegal drug use, and sexual partner information. Concerns were ameliorated by use scenario or purpose, monetary incentives, and password protection. Privacy was not a major concern to mothers who considered passwords burdensome. Mothers' preferences focused on customization that supports mood, exercise and eating patterns, and especially using the mobile phone camera to photograph food to increase self-accountability. Conclusions Individualization emerged as the key feature and design principle to reduce user burden and increase attractiveness and acceptability. Mobile phone EMI uniquely enables individualization, context-aware and real-time feedback, and tailored intervention delivery.
Position and angular misalignment analysis for a wirelessly powered stimulator

This study investigated the effects in inductive coupling of wireless power due to the contribution of both positional and angular misalignment between the transmitter and implanted stimulator antennas. The implant antenna radius was limited to 1.5 cm for endoscopic implantation while the transmitter coil radius was kept at 21 cm in order to transfer sufficient power for tissue stimulation. The power transfer distances between the two antennas examined were 5, 7 and 10 cm, typical for stimulator implant applications. Theoretical radiation patterns were examined with magnetic field distribution and compared with measured output voltages. Experimental results agreed well with the theoretical models. The optimal location for maximal output power in the receiver was identified with respect to different angular misalignments and distances. The method can guide the re-adjustment strategy of the transmitter coil worn by the patient after implantation and during therapy.
The Effect of Anxiety and Depression on Improvements in Pain in a Randomized, Controlled Trial of Pregabalin for Treatment of Fibromyalgia

Objective. To assess symptoms of anxiety and depression in a large cohort of fibromyalgia patients and to determine the impact of these symptoms on response of pain to pregabalin treatment. Design. Patients completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale at the baseline visit in a randomized, controlled trial of pregabalin for treatment of fibromyalgia. Mean anxiety and depression subscale scores were calculated, and proportions of patients by symptom severity were determined. The difference between the proportion of patients reporting anxiety and depression at baseline was tested using McNemar's test. Baseline anxiety and depression were evaluated as covariates by including them—as interaction terms with treatment—in an ancova model. A path analysis evaluated the association between improvements in anxiety and depression and pain relief. Results. In total, 529 patients were enrolled. Significantly more patients reported anxiety symptoms (71%) than depressive symptoms (56%) ( P < 0.0001). Improvement in pain symptoms with pregabalin compared with placebo did not depend linearly on baseline anxiety or depression scores. By path analysis, 75% of the pain reduction was not explained by improvements in anxiety and depressive symptoms. Conclusions. Anxiety symptoms were more common than depressive symptoms in this cohort. Our results suggest patients with fibromyalgia should be routinely assessed for the presence of both anxiety and depression. The pain treatment effect of pregabalin did not depend on baseline anxiety or depressive symptoms, suggesting pregabalin improves pain in patients with or without these symptoms. Much of the pain reduction appears to be independent of improvements in anxiety or mood symptoms.
Correlation and Estimation of Aqueous Solubilities of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons

Article on the correlation and estimation of aqueous solubilities of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
Beyond BRAF in Melanoma

Recent progress in the analysis of genetic alterations in melanoma has identified recurrent mutations that result in the activation of critical signaling pathways promoting growth and survival of tumors cells. Alterations in the RAS-RAF-MAP kinase and PI3-kinase signaling pathways are commonly altered in melanoma. Mutations in BRAF, NRAS, KIT, and GNAQ occur in a mutually exclusive pattern and lead to MAP-kinase activation. Loss of PTEN function, primarily by deletion, is the most common known genetic alteration in the PI3-kinase cascade, and is commonly associated with BRAF mutations (Curtin et al., N Engl J Med 353:2135–2147, 2005; Tsao et al., Cancer Res 60:1800–1804, 2000, J Investig Dermatol 122:337–341, 2004). The growth advantage conveyed by the constitutive activation of these pathways leads to positive selection of cells that have acquired the mutations and in many instances leads to critical dependency of the cancer cells on their activation. This creates opportunities for therapeutic interventions targeted at signaling components within these pathways that are amenable for pharmacological inhibition. This concept follows the paradigm established by the landmark discovery that inhibition of the fusion kinase BCR-ABL can be used to treat chronic myelogenous leukemia (Druker et al., N Engl J Med 344:1031–037, 2001). The review will focus primarily on kinases involved in signaling that are currently being evaluated for therapeutic intervention in melanoma.
Early subspecialization and perceived competence in surgical training: are residents ready?

Background In order to understand how current surgical residents feel about their training, a survey focused on perceptions regarding early entry into a subspecialty and the adequacy of training was sent to selected residency programs in general surgery (GS). Study Design A 36-item online anonymous survey was sent to the program directors of 55 GS programs. The national sample consisted of 1,515 PGY 1 to PGY 5 categorical residents. Results The response rate was 45%. Overall, 80% were planning on pursuing a fellowship. The majority (63%) believed that the Residency Review Committee for Surgery and the American Board of Surgery should consider the shift to early subspecialty training. Almost 70% of respondents preferred a 3-year basic track followed by a 3-year subspecialty track. In response to the survey item, "Do you think a 5-year GS residency fully prepares you to practice GS?", 38% of residents overall responded "no" or "unsure." This figure decreased with each increasing year of residency training, from PGY 1 (53.3%) to PGY 5 (23%). Finally, 71% of residents who answered "no" or "unsure" to the above question believe there should be a change to a track system. Conclusions The choice of fellowship training for 80% of trainees partially reflects that 38% are not confident about their skills with 5 years of training in GS, including 23% of graduating chief residents. Training and certifying groups should update and strengthen the current curriculum for categorical residents in GS and continue their efforts to offer shortened independent or integrated residency training for those who will enter surgical specialties. Innovative solutions are needed to solve the logistic and financial problems involved.
Steady planar straining flow past a rigid sphere at moderate Reynolds number

This study focuses on the effect of spatial non-uniformity in the ambient flow on the forces acting on a spherical particle at moderate particle Reynolds numbers. A scaling analysis is performed to obtain conditions under which such effects are important. A direct numerical simulation, based on spectral methods, is used to compute the three-dimensional time-dependent flow past a stationary sphere subject to a uniform flow plus a planar straining flow. The particle Reynolds number, Re, in the range 10 to 300 covering different flow regimes, from unseparated flow to unsteady vortex shedding, is considered. A variety of strain magnitudes and orientations are investigated. A systematic comparison with the potential flow results and axisymmetric strain results is given. Under elongational strain, both the planar and axisymmetric cases are found to stabilize the sphere wake and delay the onset of unsteadiness, while compressional strain leads to instability. In terms of separation angles, length of the recirculation eddy and topology of the surface streamlines, planar and axisymmetric strains yield nearly the same results. The drag force appears to have a linear relation with strain magnitude in both cases, as predicted by the potential flow. However, contrary to the potential flow results, the drag in planar strain is higher than that in axisymmetric strain. The generation of higher drag is explained using the surface pressure and vorticity distributions. Planar strain oriented at an angle with the oncoming uniform flow is observed to break the symmetry of the wake and results in a lift or side force. The variation of the drag and lift forces may be quite complex, and unlike the potential flow results they may not be monotonic with strain magnitude. The direction of the lift force may be opposite to that predicted by the inviscid and low Reynolds number (Re [Lt ] 1) theories. This behaviour is dictated by the presence or absence of a recirculation eddy. In the absence of a recirculation region at low Reynolds numbers (Re < 20), or at a very high strain magnitude when the recirculation region is suppressed, the results follow somewhat the pattern observed in potential flow. However, with the presence of a recirculation region, results opposite to those predicted by the potential theory are observed.
Safety and efficacy of thalidomide in recurrent epithelial ovarian and peritoneal carcinoma

Abstract Objective. Thalidomide is an anti-angiogenesis agent that has shown activity in some solid tumors. We performed a phase I clinical trial to determine the toxicity and potential efficacy of Thalidomide in recurrent epithelial ovarian carcinoma. Methods. Patients with recurrent ovarian cancer were evaluated between 1998 and 2000. Data were evaluated using Kaplan–Meier and logistic regression analyses. Results. 17 heavily pretreated patients with recurrent epithelial ovarian cancer received oral Thalidomide starting at 100 mg/day, with dose escalations of 100 mg/day every 2 weeks, up to 1200 mg/day as tolerated. The median number of courses was four (range: 1–18 courses), and median dose was 200 mg/day (range: 100–600 mg/day). Treatment duration ranged from 2 to 48 months. Common grade 1 or 2 side effects included constipation (76%), neuropathy (71%), and fatigue (65%) with few grade 3 or 4 events. Three (18%) patients had partial responses, and six (35%) had stabilization of disease after 6 months. After 1 year of treatment, six of the nine patients with an initial partial response ( n = 2) or stable disease ( n = 4) remained in these response categories. Median time to progression was 10 months. Forty-seven percent of patients had a 50–70% decrease in CA125 levels. Using logistic regression and repeated measures analyses, CA125 levels decreased by 62 units/ml per month ( p = 0.07). Conclusion. Our study demonstrates the safety, tolerability, and potential efficacy of Thalidomide in recurrent and refractory epithelial ovarian cancers. Additional clinical trials are warranted.
Jun N-terminal Kinase: a potential target for the treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC)

2564 Jun N-terminal Kinase (JNK) is a stress-activated protein kinase responsible for the phosphorylation of c-Jun, a component of the activator protein-1 (AP-1) transcription factor complex. Changes in JNK or AP-1 activity can potentially affect a range of processes that are important for tumor growth including cell proliferation and angiogenesis. This preclinical study was carried out to investigate whether JNK is a potential target for treating HNSCC. Initially, JNK activity was evaluated in twenty paired samples (tumor vs. adjacent normal) of human HNSCC. Increased JNK activity was observed in >90% of the tumor samples. Subsequently, a HNSCC (1483 cell line) xenograft model was used to evaluate the anti-tumor activity of SP600125, a selective inhibitor of JNK. Treatment of mice bearing HNSCC xenografts with SP600125 (50 mg/kg/day) resulted in >60% inhibition of tumor growth relative to vehicle-treated animals [p in vitro studies to characterize the growth inhibitory and anti-angiogenic effects of SP600125. Treatment with SP600125 led to both dose- and time-dependent growth inhibition of 1483 cells. Growth inhibition was a consequence of reduced DNA synthesis and slowing of cell cycle progression through the S and G2 phases. To define the anti-angiogenic effects of SP600125, both 1483 tumor cells and human endothelial cells were employed. Treatment of 1483 cells with SP600125 caused a dose-dependent reduction in the production of VEGF. Inhibition of JNK activity also inhibited human microvascular endothelial cell proliferation and impaired endothelial cell capillary tube formation. Thus, SP600125-mediated inhibition of JNK activity appears to suppress angiogenesis via effects on both tumor cells and endothelial cells. Taken together, the results of this study provide a strong rationale for evaluating whether selective inhibitors of JNK activity will have a role in the treatment of HNSCC.
Light-Utilization Inefficiency of Wild-Type Algal Mass Cultures

Photosynthetic productivity of microalgae depends on photosynthate production and utilization by the single cell. At the same time, large light-harvesting antenna systems found in wild-type strains are responsible for inefficient light-utilization by the culture as a whole. Growth conditions in the natural habitat are opposite compared to mass cultivation, and configurations positively selected in the wild may become detrimental in photobioreactors.
Radiographical definition of the proximal tibiofibular joint – A cross-sectional study of 2984 knees and literature review

Abstract Background Proximal tibiofibular joint (PTFJ) injuries are not uncommon but relatively understudied. This study evaluates the effectiveness of 2 radiographic methods in assessing the integrity of the PTFJ. Study design This is a cross-sectional study of 2984 consecutive patients with knee X-rays done in a single institution over a 4-month period. A total of 5968 knee X-rays were assessed using 2 methods– [1] The direction in which the fibula points to in relation to the lateral femoral epicondyle on anteroposterior view and Blumensaat line on lateral view. [2] The degree of tibiofibular overlap as percentage of widest portion of the fibula head. Sensitivity and specificity of these methods in diagnosing a disrupted PTFJ are calculated. Variables including quality of X-rays, weight-bearing status of AP views and degree of knee flexion on lateral views are also recorded. Univariate analysis was carried out to investigate the association between variables using chi-square test for nominal data and student t-test for continuous data. Results The fibular points towards the lateral femoral epicondyle on AP view in 94.4% of the patients and points towards the posterior half of the Blumensaat line on lateral view in 98.1% of the patients. Using this method, weight-bearing X-rays are significantly associated with the direction the fibula is pointing ( p p The AP tibiofibular overlap ranges from >0% to 0% to This method is associated with whether true orthogonal X-rays of the knees are taken ( p = 0.048). Conclusion The direction in which the fibula is pointing and the percentage of tibiofibular overlap are highly specific radiographic methods useful in defining the PTFJ. The first method requires a weight-bearing view on AP assessment and >20 degrees of flexion on lateral assessment. True orthogonal AP and lateral views are required for the second method to be used.
Lung lipase levels in normal rats and rats with experimentally produced fat embolism.

SummaryThe gross and histological changes in the lungs of rats injected with triolein are similar to those seen in the lungs of patients dying with fat embolism. An elevation of the serum lipase activity in patients with fractures is diagnostic of pulmonary fat embolism(6). The result of this experiment indicates that there is an increase in the amount of lipase activity in the lung in experimental fat embolsim in rats, and emphasizes the role of enzymatic breakdown in the removal of embolic fat from the lung. It also suggests that the source of the excess lipase in the serum may be the lung.
Experimental and Numerical Study of Deposition in Pin Fin Arrays with Impingement Cooling Jets

The effect of geometry and mass flow on deposition in impingement cooling pin fin arrays is reported for sand particles on pin-fin arrays representative of modern gas turbine hot section hardware. High temperature flow is generated using a propane-fired combustor and particles are introduced with a motor injection feed system. Torch heating is utilized to raise the pin fin array backside surface temperature to realistic gas-turbine levels. Surface temperatures are extracted using IR thermography to obtain non-invasive spatial variations and set boundary conditions. Deposition is characterized by deposit heights that are collected using 3D scans of the surface as well as capture efficiencies that are collected using weight measurements of pin fin arrays. Results indicate that deposition is reduced by increasing back flow margin, BFM, (i.e. mass flow) as well as pin array density with smooth deflectors collecting more deposit. Dependence on pin density has been attributed to decreasing cross flow and increasing coolant heat transfer rates. A computational model was developed to predict deposition in select experimental configurations and finds poor spatial agreement but good global agreement for all but one case. Nomenclature A Constant in the Critical Viscosity Model B Constant in the Critical Viscosity Model BFM Backflow Margin [%] D Pin-fin Diameter [mm] Dj Impingement Jet Diameter [mm] H Pin-fin Height [mm] L Pin-fin Horizontal Pitch [mm] Lj Impingement Jet Horizontal Pitch [mm] MMD Mass Median Diameter of Particles [μm] mt Injected Mass of Particulate [g] mD Pin-fin Array Mass Including Deposits [g] mW Pin-fin Array Mass Without Deposits [g] Ni Number of Particles Impacted Nd Number of Particles Deposited ReD Impingement Jet Reynolds Number S Pin-fin Vertical Pitch [mm] Sj Impingement Jet Vertical Pitch [mm] TB Average Pin-fin Array Backside Temperature [K] ∗Graduate Student, Aerospace Research Center, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, AIAA Member. †Graduate Student, Aerospace Research Center, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, AIAA Member. ‡Professor, Aerospace Research Center, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, AIAA Associate Fellow. 1 of 21 American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Tcrit Critical Temperature in Critical Viscosity Model [K] Tinf Plenum Temperature [K] Tp Particle Temperature [K] t Deposit Thickness [μm] δ Impingement Jet, Pin-fin Gap [mm] ∆Pp Differential Plenum Pressure [Pa] ηc Capture Efficiency [%] ηi Impact Efficiency [%] τ Wall Shear [Pa]
When Is a Fundamentalist a Modernist? J. Gresham Machen, Cultural Modernism, and Conservative Protestanism

J. Gresham Machen (1881-1937) est un representant celebre du fondamentalisme protestant aux Etats-Unis. Meme s'il est excessif de dire que Machen possede une sensibilite moderniste en raison de son engagement en faveur de l'orthodoxie presbyterienne, on doit remarquer des similitudes entre Machen et les ecrivains modernistes des annees 1920. Car tout comme Machen meme si c'est pour des raisons differentes, les modernistes ont rejete le code moral du protestantisme. Pour Machen, le protestantisme n'avait rien a voir avec la politique et la culture ce qui etait une bonne nouvelle pour les modernistes
The American Governors in International Affairs

The involvement of American governors in matters of international affairs has increased significantly since the 1950s. The two major factors accounting for this involvement are increased international economic interdependence and increased modernization of state governments. Gubernatorial involvement in international affairs is centered primarily around state needs to export products and attract foreign investment, though other foreign policy matters also attract gubernatorial attention. Governors promote state interests by lobbying the federal government through the intergovernmental system and by traveling abroad and otherwise establishing direct relations with foreign governments, usually equivalent or similar constituent governments of foreign nations.
Seedling emergence and economic yield from osmotically primed or hydrated seeds of carrot (Daucus carota L.)

SummarySeedling emergence and plant growth from primed or 100% germinated seeds that were fluid drilled were compared with those from primed or untreated seeds sown dry over three sowing dates in the field. Seedlings from treated seeds emerged more rapidly than those from untreated seeds but seed treatments had no effect on emergence synchrony or percentage. Seedling fresh weights were affected little by seed treatments. Only from the third sowing were root fresh weights greater from fluid-drilled seeds than from dry-sown seeds. Under glasshouse conditions, seeds given a hydration treatment (one-day water soak at 20°C followed by three-day incubation in fluid drilling gel at 20°C) generally emerged more rapidly and gave greater seedling fresh weights than primed seeds when seeds of both treatments were fluid-drilled. Incorporation of 15 gof 9N-19.8P-12.5 K fertilizer per litre of fluid drilling gel increased shoot fresh weight compared with untreated, primed or hydrated seeds under glasshouse conditions. ...
Introduction to the Photorefractive Effect in Polymers

After a brief historical introduction about photorefractive materials, this chapter provides an extensive overview of the mathematical modeling of the photorefractive effect in organic compounds. The theories of charge photo-generation, transport and trapping, as well as chromophore orientation in the space-charge field are detailed. We then discuss the different molecular species providing the respective functionalities to the PR effect: electroconductive matrices, nonlinear chromophores, photo-sensitizers, and plasticizers, along with the recent developments in the search for more effective materials. Several electrode geometries for different types of devices are described before a section on material characterization. This later include measurement techniques of the molecular properties such as energy levels, photoconduction, and index change, followed by the holographic setups such as four-wave mixing and two-beam coupling, along with the theory to extract the important parameters out of the measured quantities.
Central Xanthoma of the Jaw Bones: A Benign Tumor

Extragnathic xanthomas are seen in the bones or as soft tissue masses. They are often associated with hyperlipidemia and are considered as reactive or metabolic lesions. Only 19 cases of xanthomas of the jaws have been reported so far in the English literature. A total of ten cases of central xanthoma of the jaw bones were identified from the Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology biopsy services of the University of Washington and the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, between the years 2000–2016. The demographic and clinical information on these cases was tabulated logically on the basis of age, gender, location and presence or absence of symptoms, extragnathic lesions and serum hyperlipidemia. Radiographic and histopathological features were also examined. The findings in these cases were correlated with those available from the previously reported cases. Majority of cases are seen in the second and third decades of life. There is no gender predilection. Jaw lesions presented as solitary radiolucencies with a predilection for the posterior mandible. Unlike maxillary lesions, pain and expansion are inconsistent findings in mandibular lesions. Jaw lesions are not associated with extragnathic bone or soft tissue involvement or a hyperlipidemia. The central xanthoma of the jaws is a unique benign tumor. Histopathologically, many other jaw lesions contain variable numbers of foamy histiocytes. Therefore, a diagnosis of a central xanthoma of the jaws must be made after excluding all other such histiocyte containing lesions. This requires correlation of histopathological findings with clinical and radiographic features.
A Statewide Quality Improvement Initiative to Reduce Non-Medically Indicated Scheduled Deliveries

Objectives To evaluate a large two-phase, statewide quality improvement (QI) collaborative to decrease non-medically indicated (N-MI) deliveries scheduled between 36 and 38 weeks gestation (early). Methods The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) convened a Perinatal Quality Collaborative to devise a two-phase QI initiative using a rapid cycle incremental learning model. Phase 1 included Regional Perinatal Centers (RPCs), and Phase 2 added their affiliated perinatal hospitals. Maternal demographics, delivery characteristics, medical indications, and stillbirths were collected on scheduled inductions and cesarean section (CS) deliveries between 36 and 38 weeks. Results There were 35,091 scheduled 36–38 week deliveries reported during the collaborative’s 4 years. The percentage of early N-MI scheduled deliveries decreased 41-fold in RPCs (Phase 1 and Phase 2), and 17-fold in affiliates (Phase 2). There was a significant statewide increase in deliveries at ≥39 weeks (P < 0.001), with an estimated 23,732 early deliveries averted. Stillbirths did not increase over time (P = 0.42), although reporting was incomplete. Conclusions A two-phase, statewide QI collaborative in a large state with regionalized perinatal care effectively lowered the number of N-MI deliveries scheduled between 36 and 38 weeks gestation. Associated improvements in neonatal and early childhood developmental outcomes should translate to significant cost savings. This model can effectively be used for similar as well as other obstetrical QI.
Effects of hydrokinetic turbine sound on the behavior of four species of fish within an experimental mesocosm

Abstract The development of hydrokinetic energy technologies (e.g., tidal turbines) has raised concern over the potential impacts of underwater sound produced by hydrokinetic turbines on fish species likely to encounter these turbines. To assess the potential for behavioral impacts, we exposed four species of fish to varying intensities of recorded hydrokinetic turbine sound in a semi-natural environment. Although we tested freshwater species (redhorse suckers [Moxostoma spp], freshwater drum [Aplondinotus grunniens], largemouth bass [Micropterus salmoides], and rainbow trout [Oncorhynchus mykiss]), these species are also representative of the hearing physiology and sensitivity of estuarine species that would be affected at tidal energy sites. We evaluated changes in fish position relative to different intensities of turbine sound as well as trends in location over time with linear mixed-effects and generalized additive mixed models. We also evaluated changes in the proportion of near-source detections relative to sound intensity and exposure time with generalized linear mixed models and generalized additive models. Models indicated that redhorse suckers may respond to sustained turbine sound by increasing distance from the sound source. Freshwater drum models suggested a mixed response to turbine sound, and largemouth bass and rainbow trout models did not indicate any likely responses to turbine sound. Findings highlight the importance for future research to utilize accurate localization systems, different species, validated sound transmission distances, and to consider different types of behavioral responses to different turbine designs and to the cumulative sound of arrays of multiple turbines.
Abstract P223: Starch Digestion Related Amylase Genotypes Affect 2-year Adiposity Changes in Response to Weight-loss Diets: The Pounds Lost Trial

Background/Aim: Salivary amylase, which is encoded by the salivary gene ( AMY1 ), is responsible for digesting starchy foods into sugar, and the AMY1 shows extensive copy number variations which directly affect differences in salivary and serum amylase amount and activity. Recent evidence suggests associations of low serum amylase levels and obesity. We investigated whether the copy number related AMY1 genotypes were associated with 2-year changes of adiposity in response to weight-loss diet intervention. Methods: This study included 692 obese individuals with data on AMY1 variant rs11185098 who were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 diets varying in macronutrient contents. Changes of body weight (BW) and waist circumference (WC) over 2 years during the intervention were evaluated according to the genotype. Results: We found that changes in BW and WC were significantly different according to the AMY1 genotype (Figure). After adjustment for age, sex, ethnicity, diet groups and value for the respective outcome traits at baseline, carrying the minor A allele (which indicates higher amylase amount and activity-associated allele) of rs11185098 was significantly associated with greater reduction of BW at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months (β (SE), p value; -0.7 (0.35), 0.04; -1.21 (0.46), 0.009; -1.63 (0.52), 0.0017; -1.27 (0.49), 0.0095, respectively). Also, increasing number of allele A was associated with a greater decrease of WC at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months (p Conclusions: Our study indicated that the genetic variant responsible for starch metabolism significantly influenced on the response to weight-loss dietary intervention. Obese individuals carrying the AMY1 genotype that associated with higher salivary amylase activity may benefit from greater weight loss and the improvement of central adiposity in response to low-calorie diet interventions.
Lattice parameter evolution in Pt nanoparticles during photo-thermally induced sintering and grain growth

Abstract An in-situ optical pump/x-ray probe technique has been used to study the size dependent lattice parameter of Pt nanoparticles subjected to picosecond duration optical laser pulses. The as-prepared Pt nanoparticles exhibited a contracted lattice parameter consistent with the response of an isolated elastic sphere to a compressive surface stress. During photo-thermally induced sintering and grain growth, however, the Pt lattice parameter did not evolve with the inverse particle size dependence predicted by simple surface stress models. The observed behavior could be attributed to the combined effects of a compressive surface/interface stress and a tensile stress arising from intergranular material.