cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta promotes long term cytokine-free survival of chimeric antigen receptor-expressing T cells (VAC11P.1008)

Application of chimeric antigen receptors (CAR), where an antibody or ligand-binding domain is fused with the zeta signaling chain of the T cell receptor (TCR), is a novel and alternative strategy to bypass the failure of cytotoxic immune response induction by most tumor cells. The resulting CAR+ T cells are redirected by the neo-specificity to attack tumors expressing the surface antigen or receptors recog¬nized by the gene-modified TCRs. Although CARs have shown impressive preclinical efficacy, translational success is restricted due to the limited viability of the T cells in absence of IL2 consequent to preconditioning chemotherapy. Although multiple doses of T cell transfer and systemic administration of IL2 are effective for short time periods, unregulated overdose of T cells and IL2 result in immune toxicity. In this study we have identified that inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3β) maintained increased survival of the CAR+ T cells in the absence of IL2, upon activation with target-specific tumor cells. Increased CAR+ T cell proliferation was observed upon GSK3β-inhibition in comparison to non-treated CAR+ T cells. GSK3β-inhibited CAR+ T cells also showed increased CD127 (IL7R) expression compared to the bystanders as well as non-treated CAR+ T cells indicating a possible development of memory population. This is a fundamental progress towards the development of a cancer immunotherapy strategy that will avoid the complications arising from IL2-toxicity.
Abstract 229: Differences in Utilization of Postarrest Care Based on Initial Rhythm

Background: Care of successfully resuscitated patients is highly variable. Whether initial rhythm is associated with receiving specific post-arrest interventions has not been explored. Objectives: Determine which specific post-arrest interventions are used in patients who remain comatose after resuscitation and whether use is associated with initial arrest rhythm. Methods: We included comatose post-arrest patients at 27 hospitals between 2000-2014. We examined patient and arrest characteristics and the use of specialist consultations, cardiac catheterization (cath) and electrophysiology (EP) assessments and interventions, targeted temperature management (TTM), EEG monitoring, head CT and MRI scans, echocardiography, withdrawal of life sustaining therapy (WLST) and length of stay, stratified on initial rhythm. Results: A retrospective cohort of 1923 patients was 57% male with a mean age of 62±16 yrs. Of 645 (34%) pts with a shockable initial rhythm, 51% survived to hospital discharge, 89% discharged with C...
Resources for Teaching about Women's Health.

Given the interdisciplinary quality of women's health, a unique collection of resources is required to provide a practical, evidence-based presentation of the relevant topics. While some students and residents have sought more intensive women's health education from special electives and fellowships, most physicians will not receive their primary instruction about women's health from a specially dedicated course. Therefore, teachers in a broad variety of settings from ambulatory precepting sites to basic science courses will be responsible for planning educational experiences that will integrate women's health issues. This paper provides reviews of 19 teaching tools about women's health ranging from general curricula to books, videos, and CD-ROMs that can be used by educators and learners throughout the continuum of medical education.
An Augmentation System for Fine Manipulation

Augmented surgical manipulation tasks can be viewed as a sequence of smaller, simpler steps driven primarily by the surgeon’s input. These steps can be abstracted as controlled interaction of the tool/end-effector with the environment. The basic research problem here is performing a sequence of control primitives. In computing terms, each of the primitives is a predefined computational routine (e.g. compliant motion or some other “macro”) with initiation and termination predicates. The sequencing of these primitives depends upon user control and effects of the environmental interaction. We explore a sensor driven system to perform simple manipulation tasks. The system is composed of a core set of “safe” system states and task specific states and transitions. Using the “steady hand” robot as the experimental platform we investigate using such a system.
Deoxyribonucleic Acid-dependent Ribonucleic Acid Polymerase of Pseudomonas putida

Abstract Two forms of RNA polymerase (nucleoside triphosphate-RNA nucleotidyltransferase, EC 2.7.7.6) from Pseudomonas putida were resolved by chromatography in 50% glycerol on phosphocellulose and purified. As determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide disc gel electrophoresis, the subunit structures of the two forms of the enzyme were α2ββ'σ and α2ββ'. The molecular weights of α, β, β', and σ were 44,000, 155,000, 165,000, and 98,000, respectively. The sedimentation coefficients of α2ββ'σ and α2ββ' as determined by sucrose gradient centrifugation in 0.40 m potassium acetate were 13 S and 12 S, respectively, but in 0.05 m potassium acetate, the sedimentation coefficients were 19 S and 25 S. Similar results were obtained by analytical ultracentrifugation. Multiple protein bands resulted from polyacrylamide disc gel electrophoresis of α2ββ'σ and α2ββ'. Each band was enzymatically active in the unprimed synthesis of poly A · poly U. RNA polymerase α2ββ'σ was 4- to 5-fold more active in transcribing P. putida bacteriophage gh-1 DNA and coliphage T4 DNA than was α2ββ'. With calf thymus DNA as a template, the two forms were equally active in RNA synthesis. With denatured DNA or poly d(A-T), α2ββ' was twice as active as was α2ββ'σ. The rates of the DNA-directed polymerization reactions catalyzed by α2ββ'σ and α2ββ' were affected differently by added RNase. The initial rate of the reaction catalyzed by α2ββ'σ was increased 10%, whereas that catalyzed by α2ββ' was increased 80 to 110%.
Abstract 1916: β3 integrin/KRAS/RalB complex drives tumor stemness and resistance to EGFR inhibition

Integrin αvβ3 expression is a marker of tumor progression for a wide range of histologically distinct cancers, yet the molecular mechanism by which αvβ3 influences the growth and malignancy of cancer is poorly understood. Here, we reveal that integrin αvβ3, in the unligated state on lung, breast and pancreatic cancer cells, recruits KRAS and RalB to the plasma membrane, leading to the activation of TBK-1/c-Rel. These events are both necessary and sufficient to promote tumor initiation, anchorage-independence, self-renewal, as well as resistance to nutrient deprivation and treatment with receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) inhibitors such as erlotinib. Genetic or pharmacological inhibition of RalB or its effectors suppress tumor initiation, self-renewal, and re-sensitizes tumors to RTK inhibition. These findings not only identify ανβ3 as a marker/driver of tumor stemness but also provide a strategy to overcome tumor resistance to RTK Inhibition. Citation Format: Laetitia Jocelyne Seguin, Shumei Kato, Aleksandra Franovic, Maria Fernanda Camargo, Katrhyn Elliott, Mayra Yebra, Jacqueline Lesperance, Ainhoa Mielgo, Jay Desgrosellier, Sudarshan Anand, Sara Weis, David Cheresh. β3 integrin/KRAS/RalB complex drives tumor stemness and resistance to EGFR inhibition. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 1916. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-1916
On Mix Compositions of Fly Ash Based Inorganic Polymeric Materials

In this study, the effects of metakaolin content on workability and mechanical properties of fly ash based inorganic polymeric materials are investigated. Raw materials used include fly ash (FA), metakaolin (Meta), sodium hydroxide (NaOH), silica fume (SF), water and sand. FAM is defined as the total weight of FA and Meta. The ratios of Meta/FA investigated are 0%, 10%, 20% and 30%; NaOH/FAM are 0%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10%; and SF/FAM are 0%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10%. The slump and demold age of each batch are measured, also the compressive strength of prism specimens at ages of 1 day, 7 days and 28 days. Possible effects of various compositions on workability and compressive strength will be discussed in this paper, and attention will be given to the mechanism of the added Al-rich constituent in the polymerization reaction of fly ash based inorganic polymeric materials.
Diagnosis and management of caregiver burden in dementia.

Publisher Summary This chapter describes that the burden associated with care of a person with dementia is a multidimensional process, characterized by considerable individual variability. The patient's illness and symptoms set this process in motion, but the amount of strain and distress experienced depends on individual characteristics, particularly on the social and emotional resources that caregivers can draw upon in managing daily activities and routines. The chapter presents the theory that management of burden involves helping strengthen the resources available to caregivers. Educational programs, training caregivers in management skills, and increasing the amount of assistance they receive from family and paid helpers are all effective in lowering aspects of burden. Families want to do the best that they can for relatives suffering from dementia, and the support they receive from physicians and other health care providers can make a critical difference in the quality of their lives and the quality of care their relative receives.
Models of Transport Across Cell Membranes

This chapter is a transitional one. The chapters that precede it describe in rather general terms a variety of transport processes that take place in living systems. Most of this material applies to a broad spectrum of cells and tissues. In contrast, the chapters that follow deal with the transport behavior of specific systems, selected to illustrate the concepts developed earlier.
Targeted binding of nucleocapsid protein transforms the folding landscape of HIV-1 TAR RNA

Retroviral nucleocapsid (NC) proteins are nucleic acid chaperones that play a key role in the viral life cycle. During reverse transcription, HIV-1 NC facilitates the rearrangement of nucleic acid secondary structure, allowing the transactivation response (TAR) RNA hairpin to be transiently destabilized and annealed to a cDNA hairpin. It is not clear how NC specifically destabilizes TAR RNA but does not strongly destabilize the resulting annealed RNA-DNA hybrid structure, which must be formed for reverse transcription to continue. By combining single-molecule optical tweezers measurements with a quantitative mfold-based model, we characterize the equilibrium TAR stability and unfolding barrier for TAR RNA. Experiments show that adding NC lowers the transition state barrier height while also dramatically shifting the barrier location. Incorporating TAR destabilization by NC into the mfold-based model reveals that a subset of preferential protein binding sites is responsible for the observed changes in the unfolding landscape, including the unusual shift in the transition state. We measure the destabilization induced at these NC binding sites and find that NC preferentially targets TAR RNA by binding to specific sequence contexts that are not present on the final annealed RNA-DNA hybrid structure. Thus, specific binding alters the entire RNA unfolding landscape, resulting in the dramatic destabilization of this specific structure that is required for reverse transcription.
Horizontally polarized cylindrical MIMO radar antenna array

A single piece horizontally polarized cylindrical antenna array is designed and prototyped. It provides accurate alignment of the antenna elements and easy assembling of the antenna as all the antenna elements and the feeding network are printed on a single piece of circuit board. The cylindrical arrangement of the radiation elements provides a full coverage of the entire azimuth plane for radar applications. Cramer Rao lower bound analysis is carried out for direction estimation.
Brain distribution of carboxy terminus of Hsc70-interacting protein (CHIP) and its nuclear translocation in cultured cortical neurons following heat stress or oxygen-glucose deprivation.

Carboxy terminus of Hsc70-interacting protein (CHIP) is thought to be a cytoprotective protein with protein quality control roles in neurodegenerative diseases and myocardial ischemia. This study describes the localization of CHIP expression in normal rodent brain and the early CHIP response in primary cultures of cortical neurons following ischemic stress models: heat stress (HS) and oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD). CHIP was highly expressed throughout the brain, predominantly in neurons. The staining pattern was primarily cytoplasmic, although small amounts were seen in the nucleus. More intense nuclear staining was observed in primary cultured neurons which increased with stress. Nuclear accumulation of CHIP occurred within 5–10 min of HS and decreased to baseline levels or lower by 30–60 min. Decrease in nuclear CHIP at 30–60 min of HS was associated with a sharp increase in delayed cell death. While no changes in cytoplasmic CHIP were observed immediately following OGD, nuclear levels of CHIP increased slightly in response to OGD durations of 30 to 240 min. OGD-induced increases in nuclear CHIP decreased slowly during post-ischemic recovery. Nuclear CHIP decreased earlier in recovery following 120 min of OGD (4 h) than 30 min of OGD (12 h). Significant cell death first appeared between 12 and 24 h after OGD, again suggesting that delayed cell death follows closely behind the disappearance of nuclear CHIP. The ability of CHIP to translocate to and accumulate in the nucleus may be a limiting variable that determines how effectively cells respond to external stressors to facilitate cell survival. Using primary neuronal cell cultures, we were able to demonstrate rapid translocation of CHIP to the nucleus within minutes of heat stress and oxygen–glucose deprivation. An inverse relationship between nuclear CHIP and delayed cell death at 24 h suggests that the decrease in nuclear CHIP following extreme stress is linked to delayed cell death. Our findings of acute changes in subcellular localization of CHIP in response to cellular stress suggest that cellular changes that occur shortly after exposure to stress ultimately impact on the capacity and capability of a cell to recover and survive.
Agile optical frequency synthesis in dispersion-engineered parametric mixers

We present the concept of extra-cavity frequency synthesis to address the need for high performance frequency-agile light sources. Dispersion-engineered parametric mixers are employed to provide tuning range and speed enhancements to the existing sources.
Selection of High Inorganic Phosphorus-Low Stachyose Soybean Breeding Lines

Soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr.) seed stachyose and phytic acid are not digested by monogastric animals, and thus represent an obstacle for an efficient utilization of soybean meal in animal feed. The objectives of this research were to select breeding lines with high inorganic phosphorus (Pi)/low stachyose, along with adequate levels of sucrose, from an F2:6 population derived from the cross S02-529 x V99-5089 and evaluate their yield potential and stability across environments. Sucrose distribution showed no distinctive pattern, whereas Pi and stachyose exhibited a bimodal distribution. Stachyose and Pi fit the expected 3:1 ratio for a one-gene model previously reported for the high-Pi/low-stachyose trait in V99-5089. The highest yielding line, R08-6023 (2894 kg ha−1), showed relatively low stability for yield across environments, but it would be an adequate choice for highly productive environments. R08-6009 (2634 kg ha−1) ranked fourth in yield but showed less yield fluctuations across environments th...
ON THE MECHANISM OF OPSONIN AND BACTERIOTROPIN ACTION : VI. AGGLUTINATION AND TROPIN ACTION BY PRECIPITIN SERA. CHARACTERIZATION OF THE SENSITIZED SURFACE.

As a further test of the theory of tropin action proposed in the preceding paper artificial surfaces have been prepared, and have been found to be phagocytized according to prediction from the theory. Protein was adsorbed on collodion particles according to the technique of F. S. Jones. These particles were then agglutinated and prepared for phagocytosis by the corresponding protein precipitin sera. The precipitating, agglutinating, surface and tropin effects for each serum or serum globulin fraction have been found to be in satisfactory quantitative correspondence. All of these effects were serologically specific; all remained almost unaffected by inactivation of the immune sera for 30 minutes at 56 degrees C. or by washing of the particles after sensitization. The surfaces of particles maximally sensitized by homologous rabbit immune serum or one of its globulin fractions have shown certain characteristic properties, i.e., they were cohesive, had wetting properties characteristic for protein, and were isoelectric at pH. 5.5 to 5.8. The same set of properties were found for immune precipitate in the zone of maximal precipitation. The same properties have also been found for maximally sensitized acid-fast bacteria, and for maximally sensitized sheep erythrocytes. These results indicate, we believe, that precipitation, agglutination, the surface changes and increased phagocytosis are all consequences of one underlying phenomenon. This phenomenon is the specific chemcal combination with, and deposit on the surface of the antigen of antibody protein. The several serological reactions then follow as consequences of the properties of the sensitized surface and of the special environing conditions. The antibody is contained in the globulin fractions of immune serum, and appears to be a globulin with physico-chemical differences from normal serum globulin.
Zur Situation der Pathologie in den U. S. A.

Summary This analysis deals with selected questions regarding the status of pathology in the United States. For a long time, the number of pathologists, both in practice and in training, had been deemed inadequate, but present trends indicate the existence of a considerable surplus of specialists in this discipline. The autopsy is still an important field of endeavor for the American pathologist even though autopsy rates have drastically declined everywhere and the exact role of this procedure is being reevaluated. The concept of „clinical pathology“ which seeks to encompass a whole conglomerate of heterogeneous disciplines and still dominates the practice of pathology in North America has come under attack; some observers plead for the total separation of laboratory medicine from pathology as well as for the systematic and intensive development of subspecialties within the field of pathology.
Medicalizing to demedicalize: lactation consultants and the (de)medicalization of breastfeeding.

Abstract This paper uses the domain of breastfeeding in the U.S. and the work of International Board Certified Lactation Consultants to refine the concept of medicalization–demedicalization. Given lactation consultants' origins and current role in maternity care, they provide a unique lens on these processes because they are positioned at the crossroads of medicalization and demedicalization. Using 150 h of ethnographic observation and 39 interviews conducted between 2008 and 2012, I identify aspects of medicalization–demedicalization in the work of lactation consultants according to four dimensions: medical definition, medical control, pathology, and medical technology. Lactation consultants work to demedicalize breastfeeding by challenging the construction of breastfeeding pathology and limiting intervention. At the same time, they hold a position of medical control and medicalize breastfeeding by reinforcing a medical definition and using medical technology to treat breastfeeding problems. However, lactation consultants are not only working toward demedicalization and medicalization simultaneously, but are also medicalizing to demedicalize. Their position of medical control over breastfeeding provides them with a certain measure of authority that they can use in their efforts to depathologize breastfeeding and limit medical intervention. These findings build upon previous research that has identified cases of medicalization and demedicalization occurring simultaneously and draw attention to the need for an understanding of medicalization–demedicalization as a continuous process. Furthermore, the concept of “medicalizing to demedicalize” provides a novel contribution to the literature.
Pervaporation Using Adsorbent-Filled Membranes

Membranes containing selective fillers, such as zeolites and activated carbon, can improve the separation by pervaporation. Applications of adsorbent-filled membranes in pervaporation have been demonstrated by a number of studies. These applications include removal of organic compounds from water, dehydration of azeotropic mixtures, and organic/organic separation. Three different types of adsorbents have been evaluated: zeolites, activated carbon, and carbon molecular sieves. Experimental results show the most promising filled membrane is the silicalite-filled poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) membrane which can be effectively used in the removal of organic compounds from water. The transport of species through adsorbent-filled membranes occurs by a sorption−diffusion mechanism. Sorption of species in the filled rubbery membranes can be described by a dual sorption model. Modeling of the transport process through filled membranes involves mass-transfer resistances in the different phases of the membranes: i...
Revaluating the evidence for the General Factor of Personality in the Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire: Concerns about Rushton and Irwing (2009)

Abstract We evaluated whether the Big Five-based hierarchical model for the Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire (MPQ) reported by Rushton and Irwing (2009) would replicate in a second sample of 733 participants. We were unable to confirm their hierarchical model and detected problems with the reporting of the original results. Exploratory factor analytic investigations generally supported the canonical three factor solution for the MPQ described in the existing literature. This was the case for both the present dataset and for the correlation matrix analyzed by Rushton and Irwing.
Mayo's older African American normative studies: confirmatory factor analysis of a core battery.

Covariance structure analyses of a core neuropsychological test battery consisting of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale–Revised, Wechsler Memory Scale–Revised, and Auditory Verbal Learning Test have previously identified a 5-factor model in a sample of cognitively normal White volunteers from Mayo's Older Americans Normative Studies (MOANS). The present study sought to replicate this factor structure in a sample of 289 cognitively normal, community-dwelling African American elders from Mayo's Older African Americans Normative Studies (MOAANS). The original 5-factor model was tested against 2 alternative 4-factor models and a 6-factor model generated on a substantive basis. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the construct validity of this core battery in older African Americans by replicating the original 5-factor model of Verbal Comprehension, Perceptual Organization, Attention/Concentration, Learning, and Retention as viable in the present sample. (JINS, 2005, 11, 184–191.)
Arousal and the inverted-U hypothesis: A critique of Neiss's "Reconceptualizing arousal."

After reviewing the literature linking threat, and relaxation to motor performance, Neiss (1988) concluded that both the construct of arousal and the hypothesis of an inverted-U relationship between performance and arousal should be abandoned. These arguments were, however, based on research that does not permit clear evaluation of either the construct of arousal or the inverted-U hypothesis. Furthermore, some of Neiss's assumptions are questionable. This article reviews evidence that provides strong support for the inverted-U hypothesis. It is concluded that the concept of arousal is pragmatically useful in organizing a broad range of behavioral data
Nitrogen fixation (C2H2 reduction) associated with roots of intact ZEA MAYS in fritted clay at reduced oxygen tensions

Abstract The role of oxygen tension p O 2 ) as a limiting factor for associative nitrogen fixation was studied by measuring acetylene reduction (AR) associated with the roots of intact Zea mays. The plants were grown in a greenhouse in plastic (PVC) cylinders containing fritted clay as the rooting medium. Periodically during a 10–12-week growth period, a silicone rubber seal was applied at the base of the stem and the rooting medium was exposed to a p O 2 in the range from 0 to 14 kPa for 2–3 days (up to 13 days in one experiment). The p O 2 in the fritted clay was controlled by sparging the cylinders with known concentrations of O 2 (air diluted with N 2 ). Rates of AR were measured daily while the roots were exposed to the reduced p O 2 . The highest AR activity occurred when the cylinders were sparged with 1–2 kPa O 2 , regardless of the plant's stage of growth. The activity increased with prolonged exposure (up to 48 h) to the low p O 2 . Substantial AR activity (500–700 nmol C 2 H 4 g −1 dry wt h −1 ) occurred when the roots were exposed to 0 kPa O 2 , but only after several days of the anoxic treatment. Little or no activity was exhibited by roots exposed to ⩾6 kPa O 2 . Plants assayed under 1–2 kPA O 2 supported increasing rates of AR as they grew vegetatively, but the activity declined during flowering. Plants exposed to higher p O 2 supported increasing rates of AR through vegetative growth and flowering, though the activity was always very low. Root growth, but not root respiration, was inhibited by p O 2 ⩽6 kPa. The results indicate that AR activity associated with roots of intact Zea mays is enhanced by p O 2 of 1–2 kPa and strongly inhibited by p O 2 ⩾ 6 kPa.
CtIP is required to initiate replication-dependent interstrand crosslink repair.

DNA interstrand crosslinks (ICLs) are toxic lesions that block the progression of replication and transcription. CtIP is a conserved DNA repair protein that facilitates DNA end resection in the double-strand break (DSB) repair pathway. Here we show that CtIP plays a critical role during initiation of ICL processing in replicating human cells that is distinct from its role in DSB repair. CtIP depletion sensitizes human cells to ICL inducing agents and significantly impairs the accumulation of DNA damage response proteins RPA, ATR, FANCD2, γH2AX, and phosphorylated ATM at sites of laser generated ICLs. In contrast, the appearance of γH2AX and phosphorylated ATM at sites of laser generated double strand breaks (DSBs) is CtIP-independent. We present a model in which CtIP functions early in ICL repair in a BRCA1– and FANCM–dependent manner prior to generation of DSB repair intermediates.
Modeling self-healing materials

We describe recent computational studies to design such systems as ‘artificial leukocytes’ that facilitate the healing of damaged substrates, polymer nanocomposites where nanoparticles are driven to fill cracks in fractured surfaces, and polymer gels that effectively act as a ‘skin’ by signaling mechanical impact. Computational research into self-healing materials is still in its infancy. However, progress in this field can ultimately facilitate the fabrication of the next generation of adaptive materials that both monitor their structural integrity and mend themselves before any catastrophic failure can occur.
Oxidative fragmentation of hydroxy octadecadienoates generates biologically active γ-hydroxyalkenals

Oxidative fragmentation of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in vivo generates cytotoxic aldehydes. Among these, 4-hydroxynon-2-enal and analogous gamma-hydroxyalkenal phosphatidylcholines (PCs) have attracted attention because these oxidatively truncated lipids are biologically active and have been implicated in diseases. A previous study showed that hydroxydienes, generated by allylic oxygenation of linoleic acid, are unreactive toward oxidative fragmentation. We now show that, in the presence of hydroperoxides, hydroxydienes fragment as readily as the corresponding hydroperoxydienes, generating gamma-hydroxyalkenals. In a physiomimetic model study, myeloperoxidase-promoted free radical-induced fragmentation of either hydroperoxy- or hydroxyoctecadienoate esters of 2-lyso-PC in small unilamellar vesicles produced the 9-hydroxy-12-oxododec-10-enoic acid (HODA) ester HODA-PC. Therefore, hydroxydienes, that are generally more abundant in vivo than hydroperoxydienes, are plausible intermediates in the production of oxidatively truncated lipids in vivo where a constant flux of radicals and hydroperoxides is present. Our findings also show that the formation of dioxetane intermediates through peroxyradical cyclization is not required to achieve oxidative fragmentation of PUFAs.
Spreading pigmented actinic keratosis

We present four cases of spreading pigmented actinic keratoses, an only recently described pigmented lesion of sun-exposed areas, in which the histologic appearance is that of actinic keratosis with the additional feature of excessive melanin deposition in the lower epidermis and in the upper dermis. Clinically, it is a brown patch or plaque with a smooth surface, usually larger than 1 cm, that tends to spread centrifugally. Clinical differential diagnoses include seborrheic keratosis, melanocytic nevus, senile lentigo, lentigo maligna, and lentigo maligna melanoma. This pigmented lesion is probably much more common than the existing literature would indicate.
Blended Learning: A Dangerous Idea?.

Abstract The authors make the case that implementation of a successful blended learning program requires alignment of institutional, faculty, and student goals. Reliable and robust infrastructure must be in place to support students and faculty. Continuous evaluation can effectively track the impact of blended learning on students, faculty, and the institution. These data are used to inform stakeholders and impact policy to improve faculty development and other support structures necessary for success. This iterative loop of continuous quality improvement is augmented by faculty scholarship of teaching and learning research. The evolution of blended learning at the University of Central Florida is used as a model and research collected over sixteen years illustrates that with proper support and planning, blended learning can result in positive institutional transformation.
Prokaryotes Versus Eukaryotes: Who is Hosting Whom?

Microorganisms represent the largest component of biodiversity in our world. For millions of years, prokaryotic microorganisms have functioned as a major selective force shaping eukaryotic evolution. Microbes that live inside and on animals outnumber the animals’ actual somatic and germ cells by an estimated 10-fold. Collectively, the intestinal microbiome represents a ‘forgotten organ’, functioning as an organ inside another that can execute many physiological responsibilities. The nature of primitive eukaryotes was drastically changed due to the association with symbiotic prokaryotes facilitating mutual coevolution of host and microbe. Phytophagous insects have long been used to test theories of evolutionary diversification; moreover, the diversification of a number of phytophagous insect lineages has been linked to mutualisms with microbes. From termites and honey bees to ruminants and mammals, depending on novel biochemistries provided by the prokaryotic microbiome, the association helps to metabolize several nutrients that the host cannot digest and converting these into useful end products (such as short chain fatty acids), a process which has huge impact on the biology and homeostasis of metazoans. More importantly, in a direct and/or indirect way, the intestinal microbiota influences the assembly of gut-associated lymphoid tissue, helps to educate immune system, affects the integrity of the intestinal mucosal barrier, modulates proliferation and differentiation of its epithelial lineages, regulates angiogenesis, and modifies the activity of enteric as well as the central nervous system,. Despite these important effects, the mechanisms by which the gut microbial community influences the host’s biology remains almost entirely unknown. Our aim here is to encourage empirical inquiry into the relationship between mutualism and evolutionary diversification between prokaryotes and eukaryotes which encourage us to postulate: Who is hosting whom?
Instrumentation for processing neural signals

Abstract A flexible arrangement of instrumentation is described whereby standard components can be formed into a pulse height selector or window, and an average frequency computer for study of nerve impulse discharges. An experiment demonstrating its effectiveness in separating different physiological signals is provided.
Transition from precise to accurate critical dimension metrology

A new measurement system analysis (MSA) methodology has been developed at Texas Instruments (TI) to evaluate the status of the 65 nm technology critical dimension (CD) metrology and its readiness for production. Elements of the methodology were used in a previously reported scatterometry evaluation [1]. At every critical process level the precision, bias, linearity and total measurement uncertainty (TMU) were evaluated for metrology fleet over extended periods of time, and with the technology representative set of samples. The samples with variations that fully covered and often exceeded process space were pre-calibrated by CD atomic force microscope (AFM). CD AFM measurement precision was determined for every analyzed process level based on repeated measurements conducted over several days. The National Institute of Standards and Technologies (NIST) traceable standards were used to verify CD AFM line CD and scale calibrations. Therefore, for the first time the NIST traceability has been established for CD metrology at every critical process level for the entire technology. The data indicates an overall healthy status of the 65 nm CD metrology. Sub-nanometer accuracy has been established for gate CD metrology. The thorough CD metrology characterization and specifically absolute CD calibration were instrumental in seamless technology transfer from 200 mm to 300 mm fabs. The qualification of CD metrology also revealed several problems. Most of these are well-known from previous studies and should soon be addressed. CD scanning electron microscopy (SEM) has a systematic problem with bias of CD measurements. The problem is common for several front-end and back-end of line process levels. For most process levels, TMU of CD SEM is noticeably affected by sample modification inflicted by electron irradiation (shrinkage, charging, buildups, etc.). This causes problems, especially in the case of fleet TMU evaluation. An improved data collection methodology should be devised to minimize the impact of sample modification on fleet TMU measurements. The reported progress in semiconductor industrial CD metrology became possible after a recent breakthrough in line CD standard technology [2,3], recognition of CD AFM as an instrument for CD traceability [4,5] and development of the concept and mathematical tools for TMU analysis [6,7].
Metabolic turnover rate: a physiological meaning of the metabolic rate per unit body weight.

Abstract In analogy to “specific gravity” or “specific heat” the expression “weight specific metabolic rate” (Ultsch, 1973) would be correct if the metabolic rate were directly proportional to body weight. In that case the quotient metabolic rate divided by body weight would be a constant, independent of body weight like density or specific heat are constants. The metabolic rate, however, is not proportional to body weight but to its 3 4 power. I have stated that heat flow per unit body weight has no proper physical or physiological meaning (Kleiber, 1970) , but since found such a physiological meaning: in work with tracers turnover rates are measured as quotients of transfer rates/pool content. For similometric animals pool contents are proportional to body weight. For such animals therefore the quotient metabolic rate/body weight may have a proper physiological meaning, namely the turnover rate of chemical energy in the animal body. The usefulness of the turnover rate is limited. For the calculation of the energy requirement of horizontal animal locomotion, for example, the calculation from the metabolic rate per animal is preferable to the calculation based on the metabolic rate per unit body weight.
Malignant hemangiopericytoma: Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging

Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of a malignant hemangiopericytoma in a 58-year-old woman are described. The tumor was initially found in the abdomen and resected 34 years ago, but recurred 18 years later, followed by repeated recurrence and eventually metastasis to the lung and then to the liver. The lung nodules were round or oval, homogeneous, and well circumscribed while the massive tumor in the right lobe of the liver was poorly delineated with irregular areas of cystic necrosis. With proper setting of the repetition time and echo delay, the metastatic tumor became distinct from the uninvolved hepatic tissue on magnetic resonance imaging. In this case computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging were complementary in evaluation of such a tumor.
High dynamic range microscope infrared imaging of silicon nanophotonic devices

A noninvasive diagnostic technique based on wavelength-resolved and magnified infrared images of weakly scattered light from a silicon photonic device may be useful to infer component characteristics, such as waveguide-resonator coupling, loss, quality factor, etc., at multiple locations, without the constraint of input/output couplers. Here, we demonstrate the benefit of high dynamic range microscope imaging for a silicon coupled microresonator device.
Synthesis of monodentate bis(N-heterocyclic carbene) complexes of iridium: Mixed complexes of abnormal NHCs, normal NHCs, and triazole NHCs

Abstract A stepwise synthesis of mixed monodentate bis-NHC complexes of Ir(I), employing Ag(I)NHC complexes as transfer agents, yields complexes with two monodentate NHCs having different steric and electronic characteristics. The crystal structure of the mixed complex (5) with both a triazole-derived NHC ligand and an imidazole-derived NHC ligand is reported and both the NHC ring geometry and the M–NHC bond lengths are similar to related complexes. The complexes maintain their integrity over time and do not disproportionate, consistent with the NHC ligands not being labile.
Linking invertebrate communities to decomposition rate and nitrogen availability in pine forest soils

Abstract Interpretation of biological indicators of soil quality depends on their ability to reflect ecological processes such as decomposition and nutrient mineralization. Mineral soils in pairs of relatively undisturbed and disturbed pine forests in each of three land resource regions of North Carolina (i.e., coastal plain, piedmont, and mountains) were monitored 15 times over two years. Abundance of nematodes in 35 families, collembolans in 8 families, and 16 other microarthropod taxa were enumerated. Nematodes were identified only in mineral soil whereas microarthropods were identified separately in litter and mineral soil. Rate (mg lost per day) of cellulose and wood decomposition were estimated based on weight loss of standardized substrates enclosed in litter baskets; available nitrate (NO 3 − ) and ammonium (NH 4 + ) were quantified in soil. Principal components analysis was performed on 59 invertebrate taxa to identify the taxa explaining the greatest proportion of variation in the monitored community. Soil microclimate and chemical properties were included as covariables. Canonical correlation was performed to quantify the relationship between soil invertebrate communities and indicators of ecological processes. Variation in soil N availability and decomposition rate was best explained when the two microfaunal communities, nematodes and arthropods, respectively, were examined separately. Nematode communities explained 2.3–6.9% of the variation in NO 3 − and NH 4 + availability, indicators of N mineralization, in disturbed forests compared to 8.6–12.4% in undisturbed forests. In contrast, arthropod communities explained 11–14.8% of the variation in decomposition rate in disturbed forests compared to 2.8–14.3% in undisturbed forests. These results are the first to quantify, from a wide and realistic spatial variability in the environmental factors, the value of in situ soil microfaunal communities as indicators of soil processes, N availability and decomposition.
The 'rap' house and volunteers: helpful or harmful?

One of the most frequent community level responses to the treatment of the drug abuse problem is the ‘rap’ house. Some 68 staff volunteers from one such program were interviewed to determine what impact the program had on them, and what impact resulted from their work. The ‘rap’ house has both helpful and possibly harmful effects in a community.
A new route for the synthesis of furanoflavone and furanochalcone natural products

Abstract An efficient synthesis of furanoflavones and furanochalcones has been carried out starting from a dihydrobenzofuran derivative.
Impedance stroke volume compared with dye and electromagnetic flowmeter values during drug-induced inotropic and vascular changes in dogs.

: Stroke volumes measured by impedance were compared with values obtained by dye dilution and an electromagnetic flowmeter (EMF) on 14 dogs during drug-induced changes in cardiac contraction strength and peripheral resistance changes. Grouping all data for a total of 305 points showed correlations between dye and EMF, dye and impedance, and EMF and impedance of 0.89, 0.68, and 0.72, respectively. Correlations for individual dogs between dye and EMF, dye and impedance, and EMF and impedance ranged from 0.60 to 0.99, −0.39 to 0.96, and −0.26 to 0.89, respectively. These data suggest that the use of impedance cardiac output measurements to make treatment decisions about individual patients could result in serious error.
Race and gender in the classroom: teacher, privilege, and enduring social inequalities

While both gender and race appear to be baffling, elusive concepts for the narrow section of academics who associate themselves with critical, feminist, antiracist social theories and strive to ide...
A Nonparametric Regression Model With Tree-Structured Response

Developments in science and technology over the last two decades has motivated the study of complex data objects. In this article, we consider the topological properties of a population of tree-structured objects. Our interest centers on modeling the relationship between a tree-structured response and other covariates. For tree-structured objects, this poses serious challenges since most regression methods rely on linear operations in Euclidean space. We generalize the notion of nonparametric regression to the case of a tree-structured response variable. In addition, we develop a fast algorithm and give its theoretical justification. We implement the proposed method to analyze a dataset of human brain artery trees. An important lesson is that smoothing in the full tree space can reveal much deeper scientific insights than the simple smoothing of summary statistics. This article has supplementary materials online.
Comparative toxicology of tetrachlorobiphenyls in mink and rats. II. Pathology.

Abstract Young female pastel mink and young female Sprague-Dawley rats were injected intraperitoneally on 3 sequential days with 50 mg/kg of either 2,4,2′,4′ tetrachlorobiphenyl (TCB) or 3,4,3′,4′-TCB and sacrificed after 7 days. Two control groups were established for each species; one allowed free access to food, and one pair-fed to the 3,4,3′,4′-TCB-treatment group. Heart blood was collected from each mink immediately after sacrifice. A complete set of tissues was collected from all animals and placed in buffered formalin. The rats displayed no clinical signs of illness following the administration of either congener, nor were there any significant gross or microscopic lesions created in this species. Mink in the 2,4,2′,4′-TCB and control groups remained free of clinical signs and significant gross or microscopic lesions. Mink in the 3,4,3′,4′-TCB group developed anorexia within 48 hr after the initial injection, and depression and melena by Day 4. Necropsy on Day 7 revealed a severe necrotizing enteritis with moderate to marked villus atrophy and fusion in the small intestines of all mink in this treatment group. The epithelial necrosis generally spared the basal one-third of the mucosa, and the deep crypt epithelium was often moderately hyperplastic. The mechanism by which 3,4,3′,4′-TCB causes this unique lesion is unknown.
Progressive revenue sharing in Major League Baseball: the effect on player transfers and talent distribution.

Major League Baseball’s system of sharing revenue between clubs was altered significantly in 1997. The arrangement progressively redistributes income from the highest toward the lowest revenue-generating clubs. The purpose of the new method was to alleviate growing disparity in revenue generation. However, under the progressive system the lowest revenue producing clubs bear the highest marginal tax rates, and theoretically problems of competitive imbalance may be amplified. Changes in talent distribution are observed by analyzing player mobility; an empirical model of player transfers is developed and tested. Confirmation is obtained that low revenue clubs acted on increased incentives to divest talent.
Formalization and Clarification of a Theory of Learning

(1950). Formalization and Clarification of a Theory of Learning. The Journal of Psychology: Vol. 30, No. 2, pp. 341-362.
Optical implementation of local Fourier transforms with overlapping windows

Local Fourier transforms on images can provide useful feature vectors in optical pattern recognition. The windows over which the local Fourier transform is performed must be overlapped in order to preserve information which otherwise may be split between windows without overlap. In this paper, we present the design of an overlapping lenslet array and experimental results on local Fourier transforms obtained with it.
Use Of Self-Calibrated Detectors In Radiometric Instruments

Self-calibrated detectors have been under development for the past ten years and are now capable of measuring optical power with uncertainties on the order of 0.1%. They have now been combined with conventional and new optical systems to build instruments that are capable of making 0.25% measurements of various radiometric quantities.
The “energy”; of form

Using Kenneth Burke's schema of the four kinds of form and examples from contemporary political discourse, this paper examines three kinds of energy (dynamos, energeia, ergon) during the formal process.
A guide to international transfer pricing

More than 70 percent of global trading transactions are between companies of multinational corporations. But local tax authorities fear they may lose tax revenues, as a result of global trading and the artificial manipulation of transfer prices. So the United States, Japan, and the European Union have introduced stringent transfer pricing legislation. Companies that violate them face costly sanctions! How can companies cope with these tough laws? The authors of this article give valuable guidance. They explain the different types of transfer pricing strategies, provide guidelines, and expose possible pitfalls for companies dealing in this complex area. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.