cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Testis-Specific Antigen (TSA-1) is Expressed in Murine Sperm and its Antibodies inhibit Fertilization

Problem We recently cloned and sequenced a sperm-specific antigen, designated as testis-specific antigen-1 (TSA-1), from human testis. The present study was conducted to examine its expression and function in murine sperm, in order to find out whether or not the mouse can provide a suitable model for examining its immunocontraceptive effects. Method of study The antibodies (Ab) were raised against purified human rTSA-1 in virgin female rabbits. The rTSA-1 was run in sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and the gel containing the approximately 18 kDa band was cut, minced and used for immunization to obtain the specific Ab. The immunoglobulins from preimmune bleed and from animals injected with adjuvant alone served as control. These Ab were analysed in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), Western blot procedure, immunoprecipitation procedure, immunocytochemical technique (ICT), immunobead binding technique (IBT), acrosome reaction and sperm-zona binding assay. Results Active immunization of female rabbits with purified rTSA-1 protein of 18 kDa, produced high titer Ab against the recombinant antigen. These Ab to rTSA-1 were used in the present study. In Western blot procedure, rTSA-1 Ab recognized a specific protein band of approximately 24 +/- 3 kDa in murine sperm extract, the band similar to found in human sperm extract. In the immunoprecipitation procedure, rTSA-1 Ab immunoprecipitated the protein band of similar size from extracts of murine sperm and murine testis. The ICT and the IBT studies revealed the subcellular localization of TSA-1 on the surface of acrosome and tail regions of the non-capacitated and capacitated murine sperm cells. In functional bioassays, rTSA-1 Ab inhibited the acrosome reaction and sperm-egg binding in vitro. Conclusions These data indicate that the TSA-1 is expressed in murine sperm and may have a biological role in sperm function and sperm-egg binding. In vitro inhibition of capacitation/acrosome reaction and sperm-zona binding suggests that the mouse can provide a suitable model to examine the immunocontraceptive effects of TSA-1 in actively immunized animals.
Analysis of Airborne VHF/UHF Incidental Noise over Metropolitan Areas

The computation of VHF band incidental radio noise levels over the centers of several cities, based upon measured surface noise data, is performed and the results compared with airborne data at several frequencies, altitudes, and urban locations. The functional dependence of airborne incidental noise upon detector altitude is computed and compared with available VHF measurements. Comparison is also made between man-made surface noise power density obtained from both airborne and surface measurements. Finally, the use of airborne measurements for determining surface incidental noise distributions in urban areas is noted and discussed.
Quantitative Dexamethasone and Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate Determinations in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms by High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography

A high-pressure liquid chromatographic procedure for quantitative dexamethasone and dexamethasone sodium phosphate determinations in all types of commercially available pharmaceutical dosage forms was developed. The method also separates dexamethasone from its phosphate salt and separates dexamethasone or its salt from a number of inactive ingredients such as benzoic acid, benzyl alcohol, some colors, creatinine, and parabens. Inactive ingredient concentrations may be estimated without additional cost. Part of the parabens present in the commercial injections may be adsorbed by the rubber closures.
Limited Evidence to Demonstrate that the Use of Hyperbaric Oxygen (HBO) Therapy Reduces the Incidence of Osteoradionecrosis in Irradiated Patients Requiring Tooth Extraction

Article Title and Bibliographic Information Efficacy of pre- and postirradiation hyperbaric oxygen therapy in the prevention of postextraction osteoradionecrosis: a systematic review. Fritz GW, Gunsolley JC, Abubaker O, Daniel M, Laskin DM. J Oral Maxillofac Surg 2010;68(11):2653-60. Epub 2010 Aug 19. Reviewer Sung-Kiang Chuang, DMD, MD, DMSc Purpose/Question To evaluate the best-available evidence in the literature regarding the use of HBO in the prevention of osteoradionecrosis (ORN) after tooth extraction in irradiated patients. Source of Funding Information not available Type of Study/Design Systematic review Level of Evidence Level 2: Limited-quality patient-oriented evidence Strength of Recommendation Grade Grade B: Inconsistent or limited-quality, patient-oriented evidence
Extending ocean RCS models to very rough/breaking surfaces

Conventional two-scale models successfully explain many characteristics of moderate incidence angle microwave backscatter from the ocean surface. However, they inadequately describe sea-spike events. This is significant since sea-spikes have been observed to contribute between 10 to 25% of the mean ocean radar cross-section for Ku-band (14 GHz) measurements made at 45/spl deg/ incidence. Sea-spikes are generally believed to be caused by breaking or near-breaking surface waves. A number of mechanisms have been proposed to explain their occurrence at moderate incidence angles. These include quasi-specular reflections from steep slopes, edge diffraction from sharply peaked wave crests, and increased non-coherent backscatter from shortscale roughness generated by the breaking process. The latter mechanism is the focus of this study. The very rough/breaking surfaces observed during laboratory studies of stationary breaking waves, which may resemble spilling breakers observed in the deep-water ocean, serve as the motivation for this work. Radar backscatter measurements were made along the waves with an X-band (10 GHz) radar at 45/spl deg/ incidence at both HH and VV polarization. The breaking crests had a polarization ratio of about unity and a radar cross-section per unit area (NRCS) of about -6 to -3 dB. This work further investigates non-coherent backscatter from breaking surfaces. The dependence of the NRCS upon short-scale wave roughness is evaluated by applying an exact numerical scattering solver to random rough surfaces ranging from slightly rough ones that are representative of wind waves to very rough ones that are representative of disturbances generated by the stationary breaking waves.
The wet Nicaraguan slab

[1] Nicaraguan volcanoes show globally high concentrations of geochemical tracers from dehydration of subducting crust, which may reflect a slab with unusually high amounts of H2O. To test this possibility, we measure seismic velocities at the top of the subducted plate and compare them with predictions for hydrated mafic rocks. Regional seismic P waves for intraslab events at 100–150 km depth show a high-frequency late arrival, apparently trapped in a low-velocity waveguide 2.5–6 km thick at the top of the downgoing plate, 14.5 ± 2.2% slower than surrounding mantle. The velocities can be explained by ≥5 wt % H2O in the subducted crust, 2–3 times the hydration inferred for other slabs by similar methods. This interpretation implies extensive hydration of the Cocos Plate off Nicaragua, perhaps enhanced by up-dip fluid flow within the slab at >100 km depth.
Importance of Using Bruker's Security Relevant Library for Biotyper Identification of Burkholderia pseudomallei, Brucella species and Francisella tularensis

Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) is an ideal platform for rapid and accurate identification of bacteria in clinical microbiology ([1][1]). Expeditious and inerrant identification of potentially hazardous agents protects laboratory staff
Two-Step Recruitment of RNA-Directed DNA Methylation to Tandem Repeats

Tandem repeat sequences are frequently associated with gene silencing phenomena. The Arabidopsis thaliana FWA gene contains two tandem repeats and is an efficient target for RNA-directed de novo DNA methylation when it is transformed into plants. We showed that the FWA tandem repeats are necessary and sufficient for de novo DNA methylation and that repeated character rather than intrinsic sequence is likely important. Endogenous FWA can adopt either of two stable epigenetic states: methylated and silenced or unmethylated and active. Surprisingly, we found small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) associated with FWA in both states. Despite this, only the methylated form of endogenous FWA could recruit further RNA-directed DNA methylation or cause efficient de novo methylation of transgenic FWA. This suggests that RNA-directed DNA methylation occurs in two steps: first, the initial recruitment of the siRNA-producing machinery, and second, siRNA-directed DNA methylation either in cis or in trans. The efficiency of this second step varies depending on the nature of the siRNA-producing locus, and at some loci, it may require pre-existing chromatin modifications such as DNA methylation itself. Enhancement of RNA-directed DNA methylation by pre-existing DNA methylation could create a self-reinforcing system to enhance the stability of silencing. Tandem repeats throughout the Arabidopsis genome produce siRNAs, suggesting that repeat acquisition may be a general mechanism for the evolution of gene silencing.
Immunopathogenesis of Human Immunodeficiency Virus: Implications for Immune-Based Therapies

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection leads to a state of CD4 lymphopenia and generalized immune activation with subsequent development of opportunistic infections and neoplasms. The use of highly active antiretroviral treatment has dramatically improved the clinical outcome for HIV-infected patients, but the associated cost and toxicity and the eventual development of drug resistance have underscored the need for additional therapeutic strategies. Immune-based therapies, such as treatment with cytokines or immunosuppressants, adoptive immunotherapy, and therapeutic immunizations, are being intensely investigated as potential supplements to antiretroviral therapy. Although much data have been generated as a result of these efforts, to date there has been little evidence of the clinical efficacy of these strategies. Randomized clinical studies remain critical in evaluating the clinical significance and the role of immune-based therapies in the therapeutic armamentarium against HIV.
Alleviation of silver toxicity by selenite in the rat in relation to tissue glutathione peroxidase.

Antagonism between silver (Ag) and selenium (Se) was suggested by the induction of Se deficiency signs through administration of Ag acetate in the drinking water of rats and chicks fed low-protein, vitamin E-deficient diets (1, 2). The apparent effects of this Ag-induced Se deficiency, such as the liver necrosis induced in rats, could be prevented by vitamin E, selenite, sulfur-containing amino acids, or antioxidants. These are agents which also alleviate such deficiency signs when induced by a low-Se diet. We have confirmed (3) that Ag accelerates the production of liver necrosis in rats fed a vitamin E-deficient, 8.3% casein diet similar to that used previously (1). However, we observed a 100 % incidence of liver necrosis, without Ag administration, which was caused presumably by the lower Se content of the casein used in our study. In subsequent studies (3) and in those to be described, we fed a higher amount of casein (20%), in order to provide a dietary Se level which prevented the spontaneous development of liver necrosis, but hopefully would allow the Ag antagonism of Se to be manifested. Following the discoveries in this laboratory that glutathione peroxidase (glutathione H202 oxidoreductase, EC 1.11.1.9) is a Se-containing enzyme (4, 5) and that its
The Impact of Health Literacy on Clinical Outcomes for Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Health literacy is a measure of patient’s ability to read, comprehend, and act on medical instructions. Health care literacy entails being able to obtain, process, and understand basic health information and services needed to make appropriate health decisions. Limited health literacy is associated with poor self-management of Type 2 Diabetes [1]. Limited health literacy is common among vulnerable populations including racial and ethnic minorities, the poor, elderly persons, and patients with chronic conditions. Health literacy is a stronger predictor of a person's health than age, income, employment status, education level, and race [18].The objectives of this research his to examine current studies for the impact of health literacy on clinical outcomes for Adults with Type 2 Diabetes. Self-monitoring of blood glucose is a clinical outcome determined to be a vital component of self-management therapy for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. From the literature search four homogeneous articles that have confirmed an association between health literacy and glycemic control were selected for a Meta-Analysis to determine the strength of this correlation. The research will highlight vulnerable populations of at risk for low healthcare literacy which may present barriers for effective Diabetes self-management and offer strategies for reducing those barriers. The purpose of this meta-analysis is to test the strength of previously publish correlations of homogenous studies using TOFLHA as the literacy measurement tool. As the focus on health literacy research does not neatly fall within a health literacy framework as several measures for health literacy measure a combination of print and numeracy skills. Some studies measure literacy as numeracy or oral literacy. The meta analysis is of studies using TOFHLA which is recognized as the tool for health literacy measurement
Cell proliferation control by Notch signaling in Drosophila development

The Notch receptor mediates cell interactions controlling the developmental fate of a broad spectrum of undifferentiated cells. By modulating Notch signaling in specific precursor cells during Drosophila imaginal disc development, we demonstrate that Notch activity can influence cell proliferation. The activation of the Notch receptor in the wing disc induces the expression of the wing margin patterning genes vestigial and wingless, and strong mitotic activity. However, the effect of Notch signaling on cell proliferation is not the simple consequence of the upregulation of either vestigial or wingless. Vestigial and Wingless, on the contrary, display synergistic effects with Notch signaling, resulting in the stimulation of cell proliferation in imaginal discs.
Effects of asymmetric branch flow rates on aerosol deposition in bifurcating airways.

Representative double bifurcation airway models with asymmetric branch flow rate ratios, caused by spatially different downstream impedances or a carinal tumour in one branch, have been considered. For steady laminar inhalation of a dilute micron-particle suspension, i.e. 500 < or = Re < or = 2000 and 0.02 < or = St < or = 0.12, air flow fields, aerosol distributions, and wall particle concentrations have been simulated with a user-enhanced finite-volume code and an off-line particle tracking routine. Particle deposition efficiencies are shown for both asymmetric branch flow rate cases, i.e. unobstructed and tumour-induced.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Treatment for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

This article provides a description, history, and summary of empirical evidence related to eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Based on an overview of recent primary and meta-analytic investigations we conclude that the evidence supports EMDR as a frontline efficacious psychological intervention for PTSD. We point to some limitations, controversies, and recommendations for continuing research. Finally, we identify the policy status in guidance from regulatory and other bodies concerning EMDR.
The Boltzmann equation in the difference formulation

First we recall the assumptions that are needed for the validity of the Boltzmann equation and for the validity of the compressible Euler equations. We then present the difference formulation of these equations and make a connection with the time-honored Chapman - Enskog expansion. We discuss the hydrodynamic limit and calculate the thermal conductivity of a monatomic gas, using a simplified approximation for the collision term. Our formulation is more consistent and simpler than the traditional derivation.
A Veteran of Words and Peace: An Interview with Maxine Hong Kingston

Te-hsing Shan (TS): It's been more than a decade since I interviewed you in 1995. The world has changed a lot, so have you. It seems to me that two of the biggest events in your recent life are your dedication to the Veterans Writing Workshop and the publication of The Fifth Book of Peace, which are related to each other to a great extent. Can you say something about them or other events which are of special significance to you?
A review of the phoretic relationship between Mallophaga (Phthiraptera: Insecta) and Hippoboscidae (Diptera: Insecta).

Isolated instances of phoresy between certain species of Mallophaga and the dipterous family Hippoboscidae have been recorded numerous times in various journals for over 100 years. Herein are reviewed and summarized published cases of phoresy from 11 non-passerine bird orders, 22 passerine families, and 58 cases lacking definite host data.
Law and the Sciences of the Brain/Mind

This chapter is a submission to the Oxford Handbook of Law and the Regulation of Technology edited by Roger Brownsword. It considers whether the new sciences of the brain/mind, especially neuroscience and behavioral genetics, are likely to transform the law’s traditional concepts of the person, agency and responsibility. The chapter begins with a brief speculation about why so many people think these sciences will transform the law. After reviewing the law’s concepts, misguided challenges to them, and the achievements of the new sciences, the chapter confronts the claim that these sciences prove that we are really not agents and that no one is responsible. It argues that this claim cannot be supported empirically or conceptually and no revolution in legal thinking is foreseeable. The chapter concludes by suggesting that the new sciences have little to offer the law at present, but in the future they may contribute modestly to reforming doctrine, policy and practice.
Size Dependence of S-bonding on (111) Facets of Cu Nanoclusters

We demonstrate a strong damped oscillatory size dependence of the adsorption energy for sulfur on the (111) facets of tetrahedral Cu nanoclusters up to sizes of ∼300 atoms. This behavior reflects quantum size effects. Consistent results are obtained from density functional theory analyses utilizing either atomic orbital or plane-wave bases and using the same Perdew–Burke–Ernzerhof functional. Behavior is interpreted via molecular orbitals (MO), density of states (DOS), and crystal orbital Hamilton population (COHP) analyses.
417 REISHI AND POLYSACCHARIDE-KRESTIN AS IMMUNE MODULATORS: DIFFERENTIAL EFFECTS OF MUSHROOM EXTRACTS ON BOTH CYTOKINE SECRETION AND INDUCTION OF T REGULTORY CELLS FROM HUMAN PERIPHERAL BLOOD.

A Reishi mushroom extract (Ganoderma lucidum) and polysaccharide-krestin (PSK, a well-studied extract of the mushroom Trametes versicolor) have been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat various diseases by modifying immune functions. We investigated the immune response to these mushroom extracts in human blood cells. Human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from whole blood, either left unstimulated or stimulated with phytohemagluttinin (PHA), and either left untreated or treated with extracts of Reishi and PSK. Cytokine levels in the cell supernatants were measured using ELISA. The PSK-treated cells had increased TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-4 secretion compared with control. Reishi extract-treated PBMCs had decreased TNF-α and IFN-γ secretion and IL-4 production. These results led us to test for the differential induction or suppression of regulatory T cells (Tregs) by these extracts. Human PBMCs left unstimulated or stimulated with PHA and either untreated or treated with Reishi extract and PSK were stained with anti-CD4, anti-CD25, and anti-Foxp3 antibodies. The cells were analyzed using flow cytometry, and the percentage of CD4+/CD25+/Foxp3+ cells was measured. Reishi alone enhances CD4+/CD25+/Foxp3+ cell populations (Tregs). PSK alone did not significantly enhance Tregs but did enhance Tregs in PHA-stimulated PBMCs, but to a lesser extent than the Reishi extract. Further research is needed to determine the mechanisms of Treg induction and to examine the in vivo role of these extracts in cancer and autoimmunity.
Improving semantic scene understanding using prior information

Perception for ground robot mobility requires automatic generation of descriptions of the robot’s surroundings from sensor input (cameras, LADARs, etc.). Effective techniques for scene understanding have been developed, but they are generally purely bottom-up in that they rely entirely on classifying features from the input data based on learned models. In fact, perception systems for ground robots have a lot of information at their disposal from knowledge about the domain and the task. For example, a robot in urban environments might have access to approximate maps that can guide the scene interpretation process. In this paper, we explore practical ways to combine such prior information with state of the art scene understanding approaches.
Sorbinil prevents glomerular hyperperfusion in diabetic rats.

The role of polyol pathway metabolism in glomerular hyperperfusion of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) was studied in rats. Streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats were fed the aldose reduct...
Baclofen in the Treatment of Detrusor-sphincter Dyssynergia in Spinal Cord Injury Patients

The pharmacodynamics of baclofen on the bladder and urethral sphincters in acute and chronic spinal cord injury male patients were evaluated. A total of 100 supine and sitting urodynamic profiles was done in 25 patients. Baclofen decreased external urethral sphincter resistance by depressing pudendal-to-pudendal nerve reflex through spinal cord presynaptic hyperpolarization. This new centrally acting antispastic drug produced a significant reduction of residual urine in 73 per cent of the cases within an average of 4.98 weeks. Baclofen is a new alternative in the medical treatment of postural non-electrically induced detrusor striated sphincter dyssynergia in spinal cord injury patients. Indications for external sphincterotomy are discussed.
A pilot study to assess use of fluorescent lotion in patient care simulations to illustrate pathogen dissemination and train personnel in correct use of personal protective equipment.

Simulations using fluorescent tracers can be useful in understanding the spread of pathogens and in devising effective infection control strategies. During simulated patient care interactions in which providers wore gloves and gowns, we evaluated environmental and personnel dissemination of fluorescent lotion and bacteriophage MS2 from a contaminated mannequin. The frequency of skin and clothing contamination after removal of personal protective equipment (PPE) was compared before versus after an intervention that included education and practice in PPE donning and doffing. Ten healthcare personnel participated in 30 pre-intervention and 30 post-intervention patient care simulations. Fluorescent lotion and bacteriophage MS2 were rapidly disseminated to touched surfaces throughout the room; there was no difference in the frequency of contamination before versus after the PPE training intervention. After the intervention, there was a decrease in skin and/or clothing contamination with fluorescent lotion (9/30, 30 % versus 1/30, 3 %; P = 0.01) and bacteriophage MS2 (8/30, 27 % versus 2/30, 7 %; P = 0.08) and there was a significant reduction in the concentration of bacteriophage MS2 recovered from hands (0.31 versus 0.07 log10plaque-forming units; P < 0.01). Our findings suggest that simulations with fluorescent lotion can be a useful teaching tool to illustrate the spread of pathogens and provide further evidence that simple PPE training interventions can be effective in reducing contamination of personnel.
The Impact of Pneumatic Chemistry on Robert Southey's Madoc

ABSTRACTThis essay considers the effects of Robert Southey's encounters with pneumatic chemistry on his epic Madoc. The 1797–1799 draft of the poem describes air differently from the published 1805 version, which was extensively revised in the years following Southey's experiences with nitrous oxide at the Pneumatic Institution. Matter, in general, appears particularly fraught and complex in the 1805 Madoc—specifically, an emphasized metonymic materiality there links to unstable metaphoric resonances. Examining Southey's response to nitrous oxide along with the work of pneumatic chemists and the 1805 Madoc's descriptions of material experience, this essay argues that Southey developed Madoc's formal complexities in light of new senses of materiality he arrived at with regard to pneumatic chemistry.
Juvenile Justice and Adolescent Health: Crime, Punishment, and Life-Course Trajectory

In this chapter, the juvenile justice system will be examined from a health and mental health perspective to show the impact on the adolescent’s life now and in the future. This discussion will be predicated on a review of the globalization of crime control with the focus on juvenile justice. Emergent findings from the research on the impact of juvenile justice involvement on adolescent development and life course will be provided. Care and treatment of adolescents in the juvenile justice system who present with mental health needs will be examined and compared to best practices in mental health. Girl’s health issues will be singled out for special attention. Typically, ignored because the largest percentages of adolescent offenders are male, girl’s health and mental health needs are no less as important. Adolescent risky and problem behaviors that are age specific will be described, and interventions that show promise in reducing the harm will be discussed. The impact of child abuse and juvenile justice, and its consequences on an adolescent’s life course will be explored. To begin this chapter, however, the research on the neuroscience of developmental behavior will provide a platform based on science that will help us look forward to the day when the legal protection of young people suspected of or convicted of a crime will be as important as punishing adolescent status offenders and adolescent criminal behavior.
Oral Tipifarnib (R115777) Has Single Agent Anti-Tumor Activity in Patients with Relapsed Aggressive Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL): Results of a Phase II Trial in the University of Iowa/Mayo Clinic Lymphoma SPORE (CA97274).

Abstract Background: Patients (pts) with aggressive NHL who relapse after conventional chemotherapy or stem cell transplant have a poor prognosis. Novel agents are needed for this important subset. Tipifarnib is an orally available methylquinolone derivative that is an inhibitor of the farnesyl transferase enzyme that transfers the farnesyl group from farnesyl pyrophosphate to specific polypeptides including small GTPases of the Ras, Rho-B, and Rheb families, as well as nuclear lamins and kinetochore proteins. Tipifarnib has documented activity in acute leukemia and produces stable disease in relapsed multiple myeloma. The goal of this study was to evaluate the activity of single-agent tipifarnib in patients with relapsed aggressive NHL in the context of a phase II trial. Methods: Pts with relapsed diffuse large, follicular grade III, or mantle cell lymphoma were eligible for this study. Pts were treated with oral tipifarnib 300 mg twice daily d1–21 q 28 days until progression. Pts were restaged after 2 cycles, 6 cycles, and every 3 cycles thereafter. Tumor was sampled prior to tipifarnib and at day 8 in selected patients with accessible tumors. These paired samples were assayed for accumulation of unprocessed HDJ-2 and prelamin A, two polypeptides that require farnesylation for processing. Results: Forty-two pts were accrued between March 2004 and June 2006. Thirty-seven pts had diffuse large cell, 1 follicular grade III, and 4 had mantle cell. Of the 38 patients evaluable for response, 7 (18%) had a partial response and 8 (21%) had stable disease. The 7 responders all had diffuse large cell histology. Median progression-free survival (PFS) for all pts was 2 months (range, 0–25+). The PFS of the 7 responders was noteworthy at 4.2, 4.9+, 6.7, 9.6, 14.9+, 21.6+, and 25.1+ months, respectively. The primary toxicity was myelosuppression and 33% of pts required dose reductions. The median dose received in all pts was 300 mg twice daily (mean 275, range, 100–400). The median dose received by the 7 responders was 200 mg twice daily (range, 100–400). The dose of 300 mg twice daily resulted in accumulation of unfarnesylated forms of one or both markers in all pts studied to date. Conclusion: Oral tipifarnib has antitumor activity as a single agent with an excellent toxicity profile in pts with relapsed/refractory aggressive lymphoma. When given in this dose and schedule, tipifarnib is well-tolerated and can be taken for months without cumulative toxicity. This drug warrants further investigation in combination with conventional chemotherapy and other novel agents for the treatment of this important subset of patients.
Shooting for the Stars: Introducing the National Space and Ballistic Missile (NSBM) Dataset

To what extent have space and ballistic missile capabilities proliferated globally and what impact have they had on global politics? To date, scholars have lacked a comprehensive data source on states’ global space capabilities and only limited data on their ballistic missile arsenals. The National Space and Ballistic Missile (NSBM) Dataset provides a new collection of data on states’ civilian and military rocketry programs and their presence in outer space, including information on states’ space launch capabilities, satellite capabilities, and human spaceflight. This data has potential applications for study of international security, international cooperation, and international political economy, especially as the importance of space assets continues to grow and greater numbers of countries gain access to space. This study illustrates a number of the important trends in the proliferation of space and missile capabilities revealed by our dataset. We also employ our new data to evaluate the role that supplier states have played in influencing the global proliferation of short-range ballistic missiles (SRBMs). We find that supplier states appear to be strategically motivated in preferentially helping their defense pact allies obtain SRBMs.
Caregiver Woes in the Medicare System: A Tale of Two Patients

One might say of the current system of medical care for the elderly in the United States that it is the best of times. Medicare has provided our aging population with universal coverage, with access to state-of-the-art facilities, technologies, and pharmaceuticals. At the same time, it could be considered the worst of times. Today, there are so many unnecessary stumbling blocks to delivering seamless care to our frail elderly. Even getting oxygen—such a simple, cheap, and effective therapy—is fraught with frustrations: forms, arbitrary cutoffs, and rigid rules. It was once relatively simple for a physician to get what he/she needed to provide care for a patient. This is no longer true. For patients and their families—not to mention health professionals—these problems may, at times, make the difficult task of caregiving even more so.
CNS Neurons Deposit Laminin α5 to Stabilize Synapses

Synapses in the developing brain are structurally dynamic but become stable by early adulthood. We demonstrate here that an α5-subunit-containing laminin stabilizes synapses during this developmental transition. Hippocampal neurons deposit laminin α5 at synapses during adolescence as connections stabilize. Disruption of laminin α5 in neurons causes dramatic fluctuations in dendritic spine head size that can be rescued by exogenous α5-containing laminin. Conditional deletion of laminin α5 in vivo increases dendritic spine size and leads to an age-dependent loss of synapses accompanied by behavioral defects. Remaining synapses have larger postsynaptic densities and enhanced neurotransmission. Finally, we provide evidence that laminin α5 acts through an integrin α3β1-Abl2 kinase-p190RhoGAP signaling cascade and partners with laminin β2 to regulate dendritic spine density and behavior. Together, our results identify laminin α5 as a stabilizer of dendritic spines and synapses in the brain and elucidate key cellular and molecular mechanisms by which it acts.
Total Synthesis of Reniochalistatin E.

Reniochalistatin E (1) is one of the five related cyclic peptides isolated from the marine sponge Reniochalina stalagmitis. The discovery of these compounds resulted from a screening program directed toward the identification of proline-rich bioactive compounds. Reniochalistatin E is the only member of the family to possess a tryptophan amino acid residue. Given the cytotoxicity observed for 1, efforts were directed toward developing a synthetic route to 1. The first total synthesis of 1 has been accomplished in a 15-step route in an overall 5.0% yield. The synthetic sample of reniochalistatin E was shown to have similar activity toward HeLa and RPMI-8226 cell lines compared to the natural sample, with IC50 values of 16.9 vs 17.3 μM and 4.5 vs 4.9 μM, respectively. Interestingly, both of the fully deprotected octapeptides constructed toward the synthesis of reniochalistatin E were shown to have cytotoxicity. The route provides a means to probe the structure–activity relationship of 1 and further biologica...
Comparison of Performance Characteristics of American College of Radiology TI-RADS, Korean Society of Thyroid Radiology TIRADS, and American Thyroid Association Guidelines.

OBJECTIVE. The American College of Radiology (ACR) Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (TI-RADS) provides guidelines to practitioners who interpret sonographic examinations of thyroid nodules...
Overview of Analytical Methods for Phospholipid Studies

It is now firmly recognized that phospholipids (PL) are important biologically active mediators of signal transduction within the cell and also between cells. These findings have completely modified the earlier notion that phospholipids were merely involved structurally in the hydrophobic core of cellular membranes and responsible for excitability of neural and muscular tissue, or served as eicosanoid precursors of prostaglandins and leukotrienes.
On the Interplay of Emotion and Cognitive Control: Implications for Enhancing Academic Achievement

Abstract Whether or not students are able to perform up to their potential in the classroom can be influenced by their perceptions of situational pressures to perform at a high level, their anxiety about succeeding in subjects such as math, and even the awareness of negative academic stereotypes regarding the ability of the gender or racial group to which students belong. In this chapter, we provide an overview of research that has been conducted to date on a diverse set of negative emotion-inducing situations known to influence performance in the classroom. Despite differences in the stressful academic situations that students encounter, we propose that a common set of mechanisms operate to affect performance. We conclude by outlining work exploring classroom interventions designed to ensure that all students perform at their best in important learning and testing situations.
Judicial Stability During Regime Change: Apex Courts in India 1937–1960

In this chapter, Alfred Darnell and Sunita Parikh examine the conflictual relationship of two apex courts with the executive branches of India under British colonial rule and after Independence. One, the Federal Court of India, existed in the closing decades of British colonial rule, the other, the Supreme Court of India, replaced the Federal Court in independent India. Little changed between the two courts institutionally or organizationally. However, each court has been characterized quite differently: the former as weak and ineffectual, the latter as elitist and obstructionist. Why has this been the case? In order to answer this question the authors examine major rulings of each court that involved the executive branch and assess each court’s decisions according to two prevailing theories of judicial decision making: those that emphasize preferences over policy and those that emphasize decisions based on “black letter law.” They find both explanations lacking because of evidence that each court was concerned not only with issues of law and policy, but also with the stability and security of the institution of each Court.
Gauge-invariant variables reveal the quantum geometry of fractional quantum Hall states

Herein, we introduce the framework of gauge-invariant variables to describe fractional quantum Hall (FQH) states, and prove that the wave function can always be represented by a unique holomorphic multivariable complex function. As a special case, within the lowest Landau level, this function reduces to the well-known holomorphic coordinate representation of wave functions in the symmetric gauge. Using this framework, we derive an analytic guiding center Schr\"odinger's equation governing FQH states; it has a novel structure. We show how the electronic interaction is parametrized by generalized pseudopotentials, which depend on the Landau level occupancy pattern; they reduce to the Haldane pseudopotentials when only one Landau level is considered. Our formulation is apt for incorporating a new combination of techniques, from symmetric functions, Galois theory and complex analysis, to accurately predict the physics of FQH states using first principles.
Correction to: Ablative Treatment of Breast Cancer; Are We There Yet?

The original version of this article unfortunately contained a mistake in the article title. The captured title was “Local-Regional Evaluation and Therapy (D Euhus, Section Editor)” instead of “Ablative Treatment of Breast Cancer; Are We There Yet?”
A coupled, physics-based matrix-grain boundary model for creep of carbide strengthened nickel-based superalloys - I. Concepts and formulation

Abstract At elevated temperatures and moderate to high stresses, dislocation creep is considered the dominating mechanism of deformation governed by the motion of dislocations through the matrix and along the grain boundary. A local increase in dislocation activity within the matrix has been observed to accelerate grain boundary sliding along boundaries intersecting the active slip system. The increase in rate is considered here as a function of the increase in supply of intragranular dislocations to the grain boundary, thereby facilitating grain boundary sliding as the dislocations glide under the applied shear stress. As such, the rate at which dislocations arrive to the boundary from the matrix controls the rate at which the grain boundary can slide. One means of suppressing dislocation mobility through both the matrix and along the grain boundary is the precipitation of secondary phases. Materials which precipitate secondary phases in intergranular regions suppress grain boundary sliding directly, acting as pinning points, while materials which precipitate in intragranular regions suppress grain boundary sliding indirectly by limiting the rate at which dislocations arrive to the boundary. To consider the rate controlling properties of both intra- and intergranular carbides on grain boundary sliding. A physics-based model for creep is presented, which considers the microstructural rate controlling features of both the matrix and grain boundary as it pertains to dislocation mobility and the effect on the overall grain boundary sliding rate. Mobility of dislocations through the matrix and along the grain boundary is modeled as a function of microstructural condition – namely M23C6 carbide size, spacing, and volume fraction. The motion of dislocations within the grain boundary is modeled as a viscous flow process. It is considered that grain boundary sliding requires a supply of extrinsic dislocations from the matrix which, upon absorption into the grain boundary, glide and subsequently pile-up at irregularities (triple points, carbides, etc.) under the influence of an applied shear stress (or traction). With increasing number of dislocations in the pile-up, back stress accumulates at the interface, reducing the effective stress and subsequent sliding rate. Dislocation mobility through the matrix as it relates intragranular microstructure has been simulated, from which the rate controlling properties of intragranular particles is investigated.
The influence of prescribed fire on wild turkeys in the Southeastern United States: A review and synthesis

Abstract The pine-grassland ecosystems once prevalent in the Southeastern United States were dependent on frequent fire events to maintain plant communities and avoid succession to hardwood and shrub-dominant communities. The use of prescribed fire has replaced naturally occurring fires produced from lightning strikes to maintain remaining pine-grassland systems, and to expand and promote restoration into reclaimed areas. Currently, prescribed fire is a widely accepted management tool promoted by both state and federal wildlife and land-management agencies, and is assumed to be beneficial for both game and non-game species. However, a comprehensive set of guidelines related to use of prescribed fire for promotion of wildlife is lacking for most species, including species whose dependence on fire is presumed to be critical. We reviewed available literature on prescribed fire and its influence on wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) in the Southeastern distribution of its range. We reviewed extant literature relative to historical use of prescribed fire for upland gamebird management, and focused on documented effects of fire on life-history characteristics of wild turkeys, including habitat selection, demography, and movement. The literature supported preferential use of areas burned in the previous 3 years, with avoidance of areas lacking a recent fire history. Fire return intervals between 2 and 3 years were generally supported in the literature as optimal to reduce woody shrub encroachment and maintain an herbaceous understory. However, areas infrequently burned, such as mature hardwood forests, provide important habitat during fall and winter, and provide important roosting sites. Contrary to misperceptions among the public, growing-season fire appears to pose little direct risk to wild turkey nests and poults, but research on this topic is limited and only recently initiated. We lack a collective knowledge of the most appropriate spatial scale and extent of prescribed fires for wild turkeys, and a single set of values for these metrics that can be applied throughout the Southeastern U.S. is likely to be unrealistic given variations in local plant communities and landscape composition. Non-target species should be carefully considered before implementing prescribed fire regimes targeted specifically towards wild turkeys, as such fire regimes may not be optimal for other species.
Coupled poroelastic solutions for the reservoir and caprock layers with the overburden confinement effects

Abstract Coupled theory of poroelasticity is used to develop a generic analytical solution for the time-dependent solid stress and pore fluid pressure of the subsurface rocks. A uniaxial model comprising three layers of rock formations, namely, the reservoir, caprock and burden rock is considered. The model entails different mechanical and flow properties for the considered rock layers. A linear stress–displacement formulation at the interface of the caprock and overburden defined and is calibrated to account for the confinement effect of the burden rock. The closed-form solution to the considered coupled, poroelastic problem is derived in Laplace transform space. The time-domain solution is retrieved by numerical inversion of the solution in Laplace transform space. The obtained general solution is used to assess the coupled pore fluid pressure and stress evolution of rock layers in the following applied problems. (1) Caprock integrity upon fluid injection into the reservoir. (2) Seal rock efficiency of containing fluid transport from an abnormally pressured reservoir compartment. Findings indicate that the time evolution of pore fluid transport within and in between the rock layers is influenced by the relative magnitude of both flow and mechanical properties of the reservoir and caprock. In particular, the contrast between the elastic moduli of the reservoir and caprock are found to have substantial effect on the rate and magnitude of overpressure dissipation from the reservoir. Coulomb’s shear failure criterion, together with Terzaghi’s effective stress criterion for tensile failure, is used to assess the time-dependent failure tendency of the caprock upon exposure to excess pressure of the reservoir in the case of fluid injection problem. Findings suggest that higher injection rate, stiffer overburden, thinner reservoir and stiffer reservoir rock would enhance the failure tendency of the caprock.
Prefrontal Cortex-Driven Dopamine Signals in the Striatum Show Unique Spatial and Pharmacological Properties

Dopamine (DA) signals in the striatum are critical for a variety of vital processes, including motivation, motor learning, and reinforcement learning. Striatal DA signals can be evoked by direct activation of inputs from midbrain DA neurons (DANs) as well as cortical and thalamic inputs to the striatum. In this study, we show that in vivo optogenetic stimulation of prelimbic (PrL) and infralimbic (IL) cortical afferents to the striatum triggers an increase in extracellular DA concentration, which coincides with elevation of striatal acetylcholine (ACh) levels. This increase is blocked by a nicotinic ACh receptor (nAChR) antagonist. Using single or dual optogenetic stimulation in brain slices from male and female mice, we compared the properties of these PrL/IL-evoked DA signals with those evoked by stimulation from midbrain DAN axonal projections. PrL/IL-evoked DA signals are undistinguishable from DAN evoked DA signals in their amplitudes and electrochemical properties. However, PrL/IL-evoked DA signals are spatially restricted and preferentially recorded in the dorsomedial striatum. PrL/IL-evoked DA signals also differ in their pharmacological properties, requiring activation of glutamate and nicotinic ACh receptors. Thus, both in vivo and in vitro results indicate that cortical evoked DA signals rely on recruitment of cholinergic interneurons, which renders DA signals less able to summate during trains of stimulation and more sensitive to both cholinergic drugs and temperature. In conclusion, cortical and midbrain inputs to the striatum evoke DA signals with unique spatial and pharmacological properties that likely shape their functional roles and behavioral relevance.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Dopamine signals in the striatum play a critical role in basal ganglia function, such as reinforcement and motor learning. Different afferents to the striatum can trigger dopamine signals, but their release properties are not well understood. Further, these input-specific dopamine signals have only been studied in separate animals. Here we show that optogenetic stimulation of cortical glutamatergic afferents to the striatum triggers dopamine signals both in vivo and in vitro These afferents engage cholinergic interneurons, which drive dopamine release from dopamine neuron axons by activation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. We also show that cortically evoked dopamine signals have other unique properties, including spatial restriction and sensitivity to temperature changes than dopamine signals evoked by stimulation of midbrain dopamine neuron axons.