cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Radiothérapie adjuvante des sarcomes des tissus mous des membres : analyse du contrôle local en fonction des volumes irradiés et de la dose

Resume Objectif de l'etude. – Evaluer retrospectivement, dans une serie homogene de patients atteints de sarcome des tissus mous des membres, la definition anatomique des volumes-cibles et apprecier le controle local et la toxicite en fonction du niveau de dose. Patients et methodes. – Soixante-dix-sept patients ont ete traites consecutivement pour un sarcome des tissus mous des membres par une chirurgie conservatrice et une irradiation adjuvante dans la meme institution. La duree mediane de suivi a ete de 56 mois (17–89 mois). Resultats. – Cinquante-deux patients (67 %) avaient des tranches de section saines (resection R0), 23 (30 %) avaient des tranches de section microscopiquement envahies (resection R1) et deux un residu tumoral macroscopique (resection R2). Une definition anatomique des volumes-cibles a ete realisee. La dose mediane etait de 50 Gy et a ete delivree en 25 ou 28 fractions. Vingt-trois patients ont recu un complement de dose, 13 par radiotherapie externe, dix par curietherapie ; 34 patients ont eu une chimiotherapie associee. Le taux de rechute locale a cinq ans etait de 10 %. Sept rechutes locales ont ete decrites, cinq de tumeurs de haut grade et cinq de tumeurs dont les tranches de section etaient atteintes. Dans l'analyse unifactorielle, seule la qualite de la resection chirurgicale a ete retrouvee comme un facteur de prediction de la rechute locale. L'etude de la toxicite tardive avec l'echelle LENT-SOMA a montre une augmentation significative des complications neurologiques en cas de realisation d'un complement de dose. Conclusion. – L'analyse des resultats de la serie permet de valider la definition anatomique du volume d'irradiation initial. Un complement de dose doit etre systematique en cas d'atteinte des tranches de section et est a envisager en cas de tumeur de haut grade. Le niveau de dose doit tenir compte de la toxicite neurologique.
Mumps exposure of a health care provider working in a neonatal intensive care unit leads to a hospital-wide effort that prevented an outbreak

Background Control measures were instituted in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) in Syracuse, New York, when a neonatologist became ill with mumps after returning from Africa. Two health care providers (HCPs) who worked with the neonatologist developed parotitis within 13 days of exposure. Outbreak control included furloughing the neonatologist and the 2 HCPs until after 5 days of the onset of parotitis, cohorting and isolating all exposed infants in the NICU, and implementing droplet precautions. All susceptible HCPs were immunized, and all HCPs were required to wear surgical masks when within 3 feet of patients. Results Five HCPs developed parotitis. The neonatologist and 2 of the HCPs were confirmed cases, and 2 other HCPs did not meet the case definition. Twenty-six HCPs who worked in other units of the hospital besides the NICU developed nonspecific signs and symptoms of illness. Of the 2,904 HCPs tested, 287 (10%) had negative antibody results, and 153 (8%) were age 40 years or older. Of the 287 HCPs with negative antibody titers, 200 (70%) received the mumps-measles-rubella vaccine in response to this effort. No cases of mumps were reported in exposed infants, children, or adult patients during the time of exposure. Conclusion Infection control efforts, including vaccinating susceptible HCPs and instituting droplet precautions, might have prevented mumps infection in the NICU patients.
Combined Inhibition of the VEGFR and EGFR Signaling Pathways in the Treatment of NSCLC

Multitargeted agents represent the next generation of targeted therapies in solid tumors. The benefits of individually targeting the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling pathways have been clinically validated in recent years in a number of solid tumor types including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Given the heterogeneity of this tumor type and potential crosstalk between these key signaling pathways (which are known to play a critical role in tumor growth, metastasis, and angiogenesis), dual inhibition of the VEGFR and EGFR signaling pathways has the potential to offer additional clinical benefits in NSCLC. A number of approaches to inhibiting both VEGFR and EGFR signaling are currently under investigation, including monotherapy with a multitargeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor (e.g., vandetanib, AEE788, XL647, BMS-690514) or a combination of single-targeted therapies (e.g., bevacizumab, cetuximab, erlotinib, gefitinib). Preclinical and early clinical data (phase I and II trials) support combined inhibition of the VEGFR and EGFR pathways in NSCLC. Overall, combined inhibition strategies are well tolerated and have shown promise in early clinical studies. Ongoing phase II and phase III trials will determine the clinical potential of a number of dual inhibition strategies in the treatment of advanced NSCLC.
Role of growth factors in the uveal tract of the eye as targeted to the development of new drugs

The uveal tract of the eye, which consists of the iris, ciliary body, and choroid, is responsible for the primary nutritional supply of the ocular structures, especially the retina and, through the production of aqueous and vitreous humors, for nourishment of avascular intraocular structures such as the lens, cornea, and trebecular meshwork. The growth factors that have been detected in the uveal tract include fibroblast growth factor, epidermal growth factor, transferrin, transforming growth factor-β, nerve growth factor, epidermal growth factor, and insulin-like growth factors. These mitogens in the uveal tract influence the metabolism and proliferative activity of intraocular structures, and have major implications for the health and disease of the eye. We discuss the possible therapeutic role of growth factors, as well as the prospects for, and hurdles in, drug development for their use in various ocular disorders such as degenerative and proliferative diseases, neovascularization, glaucoma, ocular ischemic syndromes, cataract, neoplasms, and wound healing well as in the modulation of HLA-DR expression.
Secure Workflow Transaction Processing

In the previous chapters, we have focussed on transaction processing in traditional application domains, where transactions are short-lived and simple in structure. In this chapter, we turn our attention to transaction processing in advanced application domains, in particular, workflow environments.
BeetleBase: the model organism database for Tribolium castaneum.

BeetleBase (http://www.bioinformatics.ksu.edu/ BeetleBase/) is an integrated resource for the Tribolium research community. The red flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum) is an important model organism for genetics, developmental biology, toxicology and comparative genomics, the genome of which has recently been sequenced. BeetleBase is constructed to integrate the genomic sequence data with information about genes, mutants, genetic markers, expressed sequence tags and publications. BeetleBase uses the Chado data model and software components developed by the Generic Model Organism Database (GMOD) project. This strategy not only reduces the time required to develop the database query tools but also makes the data structure of BeetleBase compatible with that of other model organism databases. BeetleBase will be useful to the Tribolium research community for genome annotation as well as comparative genomics.
Automated modeling for answering prediction questions: selecting the time scale and system boundary

The ability to answer prediction questions is crucial to reasoning about physical systems. A prediction question poses a hypothetical scenario and asks for the resulting behavior of variables of interest. Prediction questions can be answered by simulating a model of the scenario. An appropriate system boundary, which separates aspects of the scenario that must be modeled from those that can be ignored, is critical to achieving a simple yet adequate model. This paper presents an efficient algorithm for system boundary selection, it shows the important role played by the model's time scale, and it provides a separate algorithm for selecting this time scale. Both algorithms have been implemented in a compositional modeling program called TRIPEL and evaluated in the plant physiology domain.
Activity: The Interface Between Person and Environment

This article presents a selected review of literature concerning environmental influences on activity participation by the elderly person, the relationship between activity engagement and satisfaction in the environment, and the ways in which activity participation influences environmental experiences. The studies reviewed examine such factors as the amount and quality of activities offered, the types of roles available to elderly people in institutional settings, and how elderly people themselves experience and perceive their current living environments. The literature underscores the need for an awareness of how environmental variables can affect the individual's involvement in activity, as well as an understanding of how activity engagement may relate to the individual's evaluation of the environment and of oneself. The article concludes with some general implications for clinical intervention with institutionalized and non-institutionalized elderly people.
Process multi-circuit optimization

This paper describes the implementation of a concurrent methodology for integrated circuit optimization that spans the fabrication process design and circuit design disciplines. Results from this methodology show substantial performance gains as compared to a separate process/circuit optimization and a substantial time savings over an "all-at-once" combined optimization.
A Decoder for Syntax-based Statistical MT

This paper describes a decoding algorithm for a syntax-based translation model (Yamada and Knight, 2001). The model has been extended to incorporate phrasal translations as presented here. In contrast to a conventional word-to-word statistical model, a decoder for the syntax-based model builds up an English parse tree given a sentence in a foreign language. As the model size becomes huge in a practical setting, and the decoder considers multiple syntactic structures for each word alignment, several pruning techniques are necessary. We tested our decoder in a Chinese-to-English translation system, and obtained better results than IBM Model 4. We also discuss issues concerning the relation between this decoder and a language model.
Determining the shape and periodicity of nanostructures using small-angle X-ray scattering

The semiconductor industry is exploring new metrology techniques capable of meeting the future requirement to characterize three-dimensional structure where the critical dimensions are less than 10 nm. X-ray scattering techniques are one candidate owing to the sub-A wavelengths which are sensitive to internal changes in electron density. Critical-dimension small-angle X-ray scattering (CDSAXS) has been shown to be capable of determining the average shape of a line grating. Here it is used to study a set of line gratings patterned via a self-aligned multiple patterning process, which resulted in a set of mirrored lines, where the individual line shapes were asymmetric. The spacing between lines was systematically varied by sub-nm shifts. The model used to simulate the scattering was developed in stages of increasing complexity in order to justify the large number of parameters included. Comparisons between the models at different stages of development demonstrate that the measurement can determine differences in line shapes within the superlattice. The shape and spacing between lines within a given set were determined to sub-nm accuracy. This demonstrates the potential for CDSAXS as a high-resolution nanostructure metrology tool.
Isotopic studies of the late Archean plutonic rocks of the Wind River Range, Wyoming

Isotopic studies of the Rb-Sr and U-Th-Pb systems in whole-rock samples and the U-Pb systematics for zircons document the existence of two late Arehean intrusive events in the Wind River Range. All of the systems examined indicate an age of ∼2,630 ± 20 m.y. for the Louis Lake batholith. Apparent ages for the Bears Ears pluton range from 2,504 ± 40 m.y. to 2,575 ± 50 m.y. The scatter in apparent ages for the Bears Ears pluton does not appear to be primarily the result of disturbance by postintrusive events, but it may be explained by an isotopically inhomogenous magma at the time of intrusion. Data for a few samples indicate that the Wind River Range was affected locally by a postmagmatic hydrothermal event that was approximately Tertiary in age. This event lowered δ 18 O values and disturbed parent-daughter relationships in most of the isotopic systems investigated, but it was recent enough that there is no demonstrable effect in the Pb-Pb system. The Bears Ears pluton has some chemical and petrologic features that are similar to those reported for the granites in the Granite Mountains to the east. These granites are spatially associated with low-temperature uranium deposits of Tertiary age and have been shown to have lost large amounts of uranium during the early to middle Tertiary. U-Pb systematics indicate, however, that the low to moderate uranium contents and highly variable Th/U values noted for the Bears Ears pluton are best interpreted as being primary features. If uranium was lost after magma generation, the loss most likely occurred at the time of intrusion. Such a loss could account for uraniferous Precambrian pegmatites southwest of the main part of the Range. The two intrusive units apparently were derived from different protoliths that were formed during early to middle Archean. Initial isotopic ratios and petrochemistry for the Louis Lake batholith are consistent with an early Archean trondhjemitic to tonalitic source. The protolith for the Bears Ears pluton must have been more evolved and somewhat younger. Inconsistencies as to the degree of evolution of this protolith, as inferred from isotopic and trace-element data, suggest that the protolith may have been subjected to high-grade meta-morphism that caused loss of Rb and U prior to generation of the magma.
Face-to-Face Exports The Role of Business Travel in Trade Promotion

In this study, we investigate the contribution of international business travel to U.S. exports. We present a Dixit-Stiglitz monopolistic competition model that relates business travel to the volume of international trade. Then we estimate the parameters of the model. To avoid the likely bias in OLS estimation, we develop an instrumental variable estimator. We find that lowering the costs of business travel to a country will have a significant positive impact on U.S. commodity exports to the visited country. The elasticity of exports with respect to international business travel is approximately 0.46. Using this estimate, we calculate that each additional international business trip will increase U.S. commodity exports to the visited country by $36,693 per year on average.
Mortuary Archaeology and the Middle Bronze Age Southern Levant

This article seeks to understand better the mortuary materials of the Southern Levant in the Middle Bronze Age (MBA). Previous studies of the MBA have investigated burial and settlement remains without differentiation. The mortuary data have therefore never been treated to the sorts of analyses that they require. The approach employed here is based on understanding that funerary artifacts were deposited intentionally, while most other archaeological remains were not. When the intent behind depositions of funerary artifacts is considered, it becomes possible to discuss the shifting priorities and perspectives of the populace. Once this intent is acknowledged, the patterns that emerge from the mortuary remains reveal several new points about the MBA. First, there appears to be a linkage between the placement of burials and ancestor reverence, which underscores the importance of family and clan relations at this time. Secondly, an association between burial location and territorial claims emerges. Finally, a gradual shift in societal priorities becomes visible during the course of the MBA.
SPITZER OBSERVATIONS OF DUST DESTRUCTION IN THE PUPPIS A SUPERNOVA REMNANT

Imaging and spectral observations of the Puppis A supernova remnant (SNR) with the Spitzer Space Telescope confirm that its IR emission is dominated by the thermal continuum emission of swept-up interstellar dust which is collisionally heated by the X-ray emitting gas of the SNR. Line emission is too weak to affect the fluxes measured in broadband observations, and is poorly correlated with the IR or X-ray emission. Modeling of spectra from regions both in the SNR and in the associated ISM show that the ubiquitous polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) of the ISM are destroyed within the SNR, along with nearly 25% of the mass of graphite and silicate dust grains.
Empathy: Each is in the right – hopefully, not all in the wrong

Only a broad theory that looks across levels of analysis can encompass the many perspectives on the phenomenon of empathy. We address the major points of our commentators by emphasizing that the basic perception-action process, while automatic, is subject to control and modulation, and is greatly affected by experience and context because of the role of representations. The model can explain why empathy seems phenomenologically more effortful than reflexive, and why there are different levels of empathy across individuals, ages, and species.
Epstein-Barr virus and a cellular signaling pathway in lymphomas from immunosuppressed patients.

Background Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is associated with various malignant and benign lymphoproliferative disorders. It also efficiently transforms human B lymphocytes in vitro. The latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1) of EBV-infected cells plays a central part in this process by mimicking members of the family of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptors, thereby transmitting growth signals from the cell membrane to the nucleus through cytoplasmic TNF-receptor–associated factors (TRAFs). I sought evidence of LMP1-mediated signal transduction through TRAFs in tumor tissue from patients with post-transplantation lymphoproliferative disease and non-Hodgkin's lymphomas related to the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Methods The association of LMP1 with TRAF-1 or TRAF-3 in tumor tissue was studied with double-immunofluorescence microscopy and immunoprecipitation assays. Evidence of LMP1–TRAF signaling was sought with an electrophoretic mobility shift assay for the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) transcription facto...
FACES IV and the Circumplex Model: Validation Study

Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scale (FACES) IV was developed to tap the full continuum of the cohesion and flexibility dimensions from the Circumplex Model of Marital and Family Systems. Six scales were developed, with two balanced scales and four unbalanced scales designed to tap low and high cohesion (disengaged and enmeshed) and flexibility (rigid and chaotic). The six scales in FACES IV were found to be reliable and valid. High levels of concurrent, construct, and discriminant validity were found and new ratio scores measure the balanced and unbalanced level of cohesion and flexibility. A clinical example on the use of FACES IV scores to assess family dynamics, plan the treatment, and determine the impact of family therapy is provided.
Wafer Fusion ofGaSb to GaAs

Atomic wafer fusion of GaSb to GaAs, and the transfer of epitaxial GaSb/GaInAsSb/GaSb heterostructures to GaAs by fusion and substrate removal are demonstrated for the first time. Wafers and epilayers were fused with or without application of mechanical pressure at temperatures as low as 350 °C. A periodic pattern of grooves etched into the GaAs wafer and an overpressure of As and Sb vapor were used to improve covalent bonding. Varying degrees of mass transport and covalent bond formation between wafers were observed in cleaved crosssections under high-resolution scanning electron microscopy. Epilayers fused without pressure application exhibited significantly better structural and optical properties compared to those fused with pressure.
A Comparison of the Effects of Classroom and Multi-User Virtual Environments on the Perceived Speaking Anxiety of Adult Post-Secondary English Language Learners.

The population of English Language Learners (ELLs) globally has been increasing substantially every year. In the United States alone, adult ELLs are the fastest growing portion of learners in adult education programs (Yang, 2005). There is a significant need to improve the teaching of English to ELLs in the United States and other English-speaking dominant countries. However, for many ELLs, speaking, especially to Native English Speakers (NESs), causes considerable language anxiety, which in turn plays a vital role in hindering their language development and academic progress (Pichette, 2009; Woodrow, 2006).
Temporal network based analysis of cell specific vein graft transcriptome defines key pathways and hub genes in implantation injury.

Vein graft failure occurs between 1 and 6 months after implantation due to obstructive intimal hyperplasia, related in part to implantation injury. The cell-specific and temporal response of the transcriptome to vein graft implantation injury was determined by transcriptional profiling of laser capture microdissected endothelial cells (EC) and medial smooth muscle cells (SMC) from canine vein grafts, 2 hours (H) to 30 days (D) following surgery. Our results demonstrate a robust genomic response beginning at 2 H, peaking at 12–24 H, declining by 7 D, and resolving by 30 D. Gene ontology and pathway analyses of differentially expressed genes indicated that implantation injury affects inflammatory and immune responses, apoptosis, mitosis, and extracellular matrix reorganization in both cell types. Through backpropagation an integrated network was built, starting with genes differentially expressed at 30 D, followed by adding upstream interactive genes from each prior time-point. This identified significant enrichment of IL-6, IL-8, NF-κB, dendritic cell maturation, glucocorticoid receptor, and Triggering Receptor Expressed on Myeloid Cells (TREM-1) signaling, as well as PPARα activation pathways in graft EC and SMC. Interactive network-based analyses identified IL-6, IL-8, IL-1α, and Insulin Receptor (INSR) as focus hub genes within these pathways. Real-time PCR was used for the validation of two of these genes: IL-6 and IL-8, in addition to Collagen 11A1 (COL11A1), a cornerstone of the backpropagation. In conclusion, these results establish causality relationships clarifying the pathogenesis of vein graft implantation injury, and identifying novel targets for its prevention.
Sacrifice of Accessory Pudendal Arteries in Normally Potent Men during Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy Does Not Impact Potency

ABSTRACT Aim Whether or not sacrificing accessory pudendal arteries (APAs) during radical prostatectomy affects potency has been an ongoing source of concern. Herein, we present our potency results relative to sacrificing APAs in normally pre-potent men following robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). Methods The distribution of APAs and clinical characteristics were prospectively recorded in 200 consecutive patients undergoing RARP with a cautery-free technique. Sexual function was assessed using the International Index of Erectile Function 5-item questionnaire (IIEF-5). All APAs were sacrificed due to stapling the dorsal vein complex Main Outcome Measures Postoperatively, potency was defined by an affirmative answer to the following two questions: “Were erections adequate for penetration?” and “were the erections satisfactory?” Postoperative IIEF-5 scores and quality of erections (% of preoperative firmness: 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%) were also obtained. Subgroup analysis of patients age ≤65 years with IIEF-5 score of 22–25 was performed. Results Eighty patients (40%) had APAs. Preoperatively, there was no association with having an APA and normal/abnormal sexual function. Preoperatively, 58/200 were ≤65 years with self-administered IIEF-5 scores of 22–25. Postoperatively, 53/58 (91%) were potent at 24 months follow-up. Nineteen of 58 patients had a sacrificed APA; 39 patients had no APA. Eighteen of 19 (95%) patients with sacrificed APAs were potent vs. 35/39 (90%) with no APA present ( P = 0.53). Multivariate analysis showed no significant correlation between sacrificing an APA and time of potency recovery, quality of postoperative erections (94% vs. 90% P = 0.80) or mean IIEF-5 score (22.4 vs. 20.8, P = 0.13). Conclusion We found no correlation between the presence or absence of APAs and preoperative sexual function. Furthermore, after sacrificing all APAs, we found no correlation with potency return, time to return of potency, quality of erections, or mean IIEF-5 scores at 24 months. Box GN, Kaplan AG, Rodriguez Jr. E, Skareckey DW, Osann KE, Finley DS, and Ahlering TE. Sacrifice of accessory pudendal arteries in normally potent men during robot-assisted radical prostatectomy does not impact potency.
A strategy to encourage the evaluation of health education programs.

In the face of health educators' reluctance to evaluate their programs and the absence of suitable rewwds orpunishments to encourage such evaluations, a materials-based strategy to reduce the aversiveness ofprogram evaluadon is proposed.
Identification of Modified Tryptophan Residues in Apolipoprotein B-100 Derived from Copper Ion-Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein†

Oxidative modifications of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) may contribute to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Although the oxidation products of the lipid components of LDL have been studied extensively, less is known about the oxidation products of the apoprotein, apolipoprotein B-100. To identify the specific oxidative modifications, we oxidized LDL in the presence of Cu(2+), treated with DNPH, precipitated and delipidated the protein, digested the protein with trypsin, and analyzed the peptides by high-performance liquid chromatography. We isolated nine peptides that exhibited measurable absorbance at 365 nm, which is characteristic of hydrazones derived from DNPH and is not observed in peptides derived from unoxidized LDL. Unexpectedly, we obtained the same peptides with absorbance at 365 nm in Cu(2+)-oxidized LDL not treated with DNPH. N-terminal sequence analyses and mass spectrometry indicated that the peptides isolated from the Cu(2+)-oxidized LDL all contained kynurenine residues in place of Trp residues found in the native apoprotein. The product profile we observed in Cu(2+)-oxidized LDL was remarkably different from the profiles observed in LDL oxidized by HOCl or myeloperoxidase in vitro, and the preferential oxidation of Trp to kynurenine in Cu(2+)-catalyzed oxidation of LDL contrasts with the products observed following oxidation of LDL with HOCl or myeloperoxidase. Our studies to date support the working hypothesis that the specific products of protein oxidation are sufficiently distinct to be developed as biomarkers of proposed mechanisms of oxidation of LDL and biological molecules in other toxicities and diseases.
Significance, Epidemiology, and Prevention of Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter Infections:

Catheter infections are a major cause of morbidity, catheter loss, and transfer to hemodialysis. These infections are mainly due to S. aureus. To date, treatment is less than optimal. Therefore, th...
Validation of dental impact on daily living questionnaire among tribal population of India

Background: Oral conditions are known to affect various aspects of quality of life. Similarly, the social consequence of the quality of life in the day to day living is also equally important. Several studies have quantified the social consequences of diseases through activity limitations in people's daily living. The instruments which cover a broad spectrum of life are proposed to be compared with the clinical oral hygiene status of people from different social classes. Aim: To assess the validity of dental impact on daily living (DIDL) questionnaire measuring subjective dental problems and their impact in the day to day life among tribes of Wayanad. Study Design: Cross-sectional. Materials and Methods: DIDL questionnaire developed by Leao and Sheiham was used. We recorded the clinical oral health status using decayed, missing, filled, simplified oral hygiene index, and community periodontal index indices, to correlate the subjective findings of dental impact tribe to obtain construct validity of the questionnaire. Analysis: Descriptive statistics and Spearman's correlation using IBM SPSS software version 20. Results: In the study population of 250 participants, the majority of the participants were from the age group between 36 and 50 years (40%) and females were in the majority (64%). The clinical status of the participants was poor in the majority while their perceived impact in their day to day living was found to be relatively satisfied. The study results show the DIDL tool had weak validity in relation to the clinical status with relevance to the social status of Indian tribal population. Conclusion: The study result shows that there was insignificant and weak validity between the DIDL tool and the oral health status among these tribes who were from a low social class. This might be because their priority in life which is different from what a person from high social class. So the dental problem is ignored at the level of individual depending on his/her priority and at the community level by the policy makers.
Strategic R&D Investment Decisions in the Pharmaceutical Industry

Do pharmaceutical firms respond to the actions of their competitors in R&D, and how much? Answering this has implications on the impact of a faster FDA approval process - something pharmaceutical companies are pushing for. While a faster approval process leads to quicker realization of profits and more remaining time on the firm's patent, it also intensifies competition reducing per-firm profits. Which effect dominates depends on the degree of competition. To this end, I estimate a dynamic investment model using Phase-3 data. Solving the new equilibrium, I find an expedited process is beneficial only when competitors are far from launching.
Brain Alkalosis and Birth Asphyxia Seizures

Researchers at University of Helsinki, Finland, studied the causal mechanisms of seizures associated with birth asphyxia using 6 day-old rat pups exposed for 1 hour to hypercapnia (20% C02 in inhaled gas), hypoxia (9% 02), or both (asphyxic conditions).
A Prospective Study Assessing Complication Rates and Patient-Reported Outcomes in Breast Reconstructions Using a Novel, Deep Dermal Human Acellular Dermal Matrix.

Background:The value proposition of an acellular dermal matrix (ADM) taken from the deep dermis is that the allograft may be more porous, allowing for enhanced integration and revascularization. In turn, this characteristic may attenuate complications related to foreign body reactions, seromas, and
Why Do Surgeons Fail to Disclose Medical Errors

RESULTS: Patients differed across volume quartiles in terms of characteristics and procedure mix. Volume quartiles were set at 78 major elective lung operations per year. Patients>80 years old derived significantly greater absolute and relative adjusted mortality benefit than patients 80 years old: 3.9% vs 1.2% p<0.0001, OR 3.38 (CI 1.92-5.93); <60 years old: 0.7% vs 0.5% p1⁄40.19, OR 1.61 (CI 0.86-2.99)). Analyses using volume as a continuous variable confirmed its association with mortality (p<0.0001). Median costs were not significantly increased across volume quartiles.
The 1852 Fort Yuma earthquake

A major earthquake was reported near Yuma, Arizona, in November 1852. Because of the sparse population and frontier conditions in this region at that time, reports of the earthquake were incomplete and partially inaccurate. Subsequent accounts in historic earthquake catalogs repeated erroneous reports on the data, location, and intensity of the Fort Yuma earthquake. Review of original earthquake accounts indicates that the Fort Yuma earthquake occurred about noon on November 29, 1852. Analysis of the regional geology suggests that the earthquake would have been associated with the seismically active Salton Trough. Comparison of effects of the Fort Yuma earthquake with those of subsequent large earthquakes in the region indicates that the event probably was located about 25 to 50 miles southwest of Yuma and had a probable magnitude of 6 to 7.
Direct oral anticoagulants: unique properties and practical approaches to management

Since 2009, four direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have been introduced for treatment of venous thromboembolism and stroke prevention in non-valvular atrial fibrillation. While they are currently first-line therapy for a majority of patients, there are a number of clinical situations where warfarin is preferable. In both randomised trials and real-world populations, use of DOACs significantly reduces the risk of intracranial haemorrhage as compared with warfarin. While drug-specific reversal agents are currently only available for dabigatran, andexanet alpha is pending approval for reversal of factor Xa inhibitors, reducing concerns about major bleeding for many patients and providers. DOACs can be held for 2-4 days prior to a procedure, depending on a patient's renal function, but should not be restarted too rapidly post-procedurally given their fast time to peak activity (∼2 hours). The anticoagulation clinic should play an important role in managing patients on all oral anticoagulation, both warfarin and DOACs.
Encapsulated follicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma/noninvasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features with Spindle Cell Metaplasia: Case report and review of literature

Spindle cell lesions of the thyroid are rare overall, and span a wide clinical spectrum that ranges from spindle cell metaplasia (SCM1) to anaplastic carcinoma. Their differentiation is only seldom straightforward, and usually requires the integration of the clinical, histological and immunohistochemical data. Only a handful of publications have described cases of SCM in the thyroid and we add to that literature by reporting a unique case of encapsulated follicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma/noninvasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features with SCM. In addition, we review the literature on the relationship between SCM and different thyroid lesions, summarizing the morphological and immunohistochemical features that aid in its differentiation from more aggressive spindle cell proliferations.
Comparisons of Cooperative-Based Versus Independent Learning While Using a Haptic Intravenous Simulator

Abstract Background The study's aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of cooperative team learning compared with independent learning when used with nursing students who are learning intravenous (IV) catheter insertion using a haptic IV simulator. Haptic IV simulators provide tactile feedback including palpation of a vein and resistance during venipuncture. Cooperative learning is an active learning strategy where students work together to complete a task. Methods Two convenience samples (N = 180) of nursing students were randomized into four group assignments (A, B, C, or D). A second randomization separated these group assignments into IV simulation clusters with each cluster containing one of each of the four group assignments. Three of the four group assignment members (A, B, C) were designated as the cooperative learning team, whereas the fourth group assignment member (D) was identified as the independent learner working alone. The letters (A, B, C) represented who within the cooperative team of learners was to attempt the IV simulation first (A), second (B), or/and third (C). A posttest-only experimental research design was used to compare group performance scores and number of attempts to be successful of the IV simulator. Results Thirty-six percentage of the variance for the initial performance score and 53% of the variance in the number of attempts to earn a passing performance score were related to their group assignment. Conclusions Cooperative team members performed better with fewer attempts than independent learners when using an IV simulator. Cooperative team members learned from observing and helping one another. This study provides empirical evidence that supports the efficacy of simulation as a means of learning a psychometric skill.
Structural analysis of the role of the (β)3 subunit of the (α)V(β)3 integrin in IGF-I signaling

The disintegrin echistatin inhibits ligand occupancy of the (α)V(β)3 integrin and reduces Insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) stimulated migration, DNA synthesis, and receptor autophosphorylation in smooth muscle cells. This suggests that ligand occupancy of the (α)V(β)3 receptor is required for full activation of the IGF-I receptor. Transfection of the full-length (β)3 subunit into CHO cells that have no endogenous (β)3 and do not migrate in response to IGF-I was sufficient for IGF-I to stimulate migration of these anchorage dependent cells. In contrast, transfection of either of two truncated mutant forms of (β)3 (terminating at W(715) or E(731)) or a mutant with substitutions for Tyr(747) Tyr(759) (YY) into either CHO or into porcine smooth muscle cells did not restore the capacity of these cells to migrate across a surface in response to IGF-I. This effect was not due to loss of IGF-I receptor autophosphorylation since the response of the receptor to IGF-I was similar in cells expressing either the full-length or any of the mutant forms of the (β)3 subunit. Echistatin reduced IGF-I receptor phosphorylation in cells expressing the full-length or the YY mutant forms of (β)3 subunit, but it had no effect in cells expressing either of two truncated forms of (β)3. A cell-permeable peptide homologous to the C-terminal region of the (β)3 subunit (amino acids 747–762) reduced IGF-I stimulated migration and receptor autophosphorylation of non-transfected porcine smooth muscle cells. These results demonstrate that the full-length (β)3 with intact tyrosines at positions 747 and 759 is required for CHO cells to migrate in response to IGF-I. Furthermore, a region of critical amino acids between residues 742–762 is required for echistatin to induce its regulatory effect on receptor phosphorylation. Since the IGF-I receptor does not bind to (α)V(β)3 the results suggest that specific but distinct regions of the (β)3 subunit interact with intermediary proteins to facilitate IGF-I stimulated cell migration and echistatin induced inhibition of IGF-I signal transduction.
Microneedle patch delivery of influenza vaccine during pregnancy enhances maternal immune responses promoting survival and long-lasting passive immunity to offspring

Influenza virus causes life-threatening infections in pregnant women and their newborns. Immunization during pregnancy is the most effective means of preventing maternal and infant mortality/morbidity; however, influenza vaccination rates of pregnant women remain under 50%. Furthermore, the availability of vaccines in low-resource populations is limited. Skin immunization with microneedle patches (MN) is a novel and safe vaccination platform featuring thermostable vaccine formulations. Cold-chain independence and the potential for self-administration can expand influenza vaccination coverage in developing countries. In this study of pregnant BALB/c mice immunized with subunit H1N1 influenza vaccine, we demonstrate the advantage of skin vaccination over intramuscular delivery of a two-fold higher vaccine dose. MN vaccine induced superior humoral immune responses and conferred protective immunity against a lethal challenge dose of homologous influenza virus. Importantly, MN vaccination of mice at mid-gestation resulted in enhanced and long-lasting passive immunity of the offspring, measured by neutralizing antibody titers and survival rates after virus challenge. We conclude that skin vaccination using MN is a superior immunization approach with the potential to overcome immune tolerance observed in pregnancy, and lower vaccination costs through antigen dose-sparing, which is especially relevant in underserved countries.
Application of an ice sheet model to evaluate PMIP3 LGM climatologies over the North American ice sheets

Abstract. We apply the Community Ice Sheet Model (CISM2) to the Palaeoclimate Modelling Intercomparison 3 (PMIP3) Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) simulations to determine if the general circulation models (GCMs) simulated surface temperature and precipitation climatologies would support the large North American ice sheets. We force CISM2 with eight PMIP3 GCMs, and an additional model, GENMOM. The ice sheet simulations indicate seven GCMs produce LGM temperature and precipitation climatologies that support positive mass balances of the Laurentide and Cordilleran ice sheets (LIS, CIS) in areas corresponding to those prescribed in the GCMs, and two GCMs simulate July temperatures that are too warm to support the ice sheets. Four of the nine GCMs support the development of ice sheets in Beringia in the CISM2, in conflict with the driving GCM and reconstructions that indicate the area was ice-free. We test the sensitivity of our results over a range of snow and ice positive degree-day factors, and we evaluate the role of albedo, and shortwave and longwave radiation in the simulations. Areas with perineal snow in the GCM simulations are found to correspond well to the CISM2 simulation of ice presence.
Extended-release oral capsule of carbidopa-levodopa in Parkinson disease.

Motor fluctuations complicate the treatment of patients with Parkinson’s disease receiving levodopa. Extended-release carbidopa–levodopa has a pharmacokinetic profile that provides a more continuous levodopa serum concentration. Patients taking this formulation can expect longer duration of action and fewer doses per day, similar clinical improvement when compared to other levodopa formulations, and with a theoretically lower risk of developing motor fluctuations. Several studies, including three randomized control trials provide evidence for the efficacy, safety and tolerability of extended release carbidopa–levodopa in patients with both early and advanced Parkinson’s disease are reviewed here. Also provided is guidance for dosing of and conversion to extended release carbidopa–levodopa as well as a discussion of its place in the clinical practice.
Aerosol Emissions from Great Lakes Harmful Algal Blooms

In freshwater lakes, harmful algal blooms (HABs) of Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) produce toxins that impact human health. However, little is known about the lake spray aerosol (LSA) produced from wave-breaking in freshwater HABs. In this study, LSA were produced in the laboratory from freshwater samples collected from Lake Michigan and Lake Erie during HAB and nonbloom conditions. The incorporation of biological material within the individual HAB-influenced LSA particles was examined by single-particle mass spectrometry, scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and fluorescence microscopy. Freshwater with higher blue-green algae content produced higher number fractions of individual LSA particles that contained biological material, showing that organic molecules of biological origin are incorporated in LSA from HABs. The number fraction of individual LSA particles containing biological material also increased with particle diameter (greater than 0.5 μm), a size dependenc...
Trauma Intervention in Sub-Saharan African Children: A Systematic Literature Review.

Sub-Saharan Africa is a part of the world that is highly affected by a large number of atrocities, causing a myriad of financial, physical health, and mental health consequences. Yet, unfortunately...
Wisconsin microbiome study, a cross-sectional investigation of dietary fibre, microbiome composition and antibiotic-resistant organisms: rationale and methods.

Introduction Prevention of multidrug-resistant organism (MDRO) infections, such as those caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, vancomycin-resistant enterococci, fluoroquinolone-resistant Gram-negative bacteria and Clostridium difficile is crucial. Evidence suggests that dietary fibre increases gut microbial diversity, which may help prevent colonisation and subsequent infection by MDROs. The aim of the Winning the War on Antibiotic Resistance (WARRIOR) project is to examine associations of dietary fibre consumption with the composition of the gut microbiota and gut colonisation by MDROs. The secondary purpose of the study is to create a biorepository of multiple body site specimens for future microbiota research. Methods and analysis The WARRIOR project collects biological specimens, including nasal, oral and skin swabs and saliva and stool samples, along with extensive data on diet and MDRO risk factors, as an ancillary study of the Survey of the Health of Wisconsin (SHOW). The SHOW is a population-based health survey collecting data on several different health determinants and outcomes, as well as objective body measurements and biological specimens. WARRIOR participants include 600 randomly selected Wisconsin residents age 18 and over. Specimens are screened for MDRO colonisation and DNA is extracted for 16S ribosomal RNA-based microbiota sequencing. Data will be analysed to assess the relationship between dietary fibre, the gut microbiota composition and gut MDRO colonisation. Ethics and dissemination The WARRIOR project is approved by the University of Wisconsin Institutional Review Board. The main results of this study will be published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal.
Compression Behavior of Three-Dimensional Printed Polymer Lattice Structures

This paper focuses on the compression behavior of additively manufactured or three-dimensional printed polymer lattice structures of different configurations. The body-centered cubic lattice unit c...
Identifying Genetic Players in Cell Sheet Morphogenesis Using a Drosophila Deficiency Screen for Genes on Chromosome 2R involved in dorsal closure

Cell sheet morphogenesis characterizes key developmental transitions and homeostasis, in vertebrates and throughout phylogeny, including gastrulation, neural tube formation and wound healing. Dorsal closure, a process during Drosophila embryogenesis, has emerged as a model for cell sheet morphogenesis. ∼140 genes are currently known to affect dorsal closure and new genes are identified each year. Many of these genes were identified in screens that resulted in arrested development. Dorsal closure is remarkably robust and many questions regarding the molecular mechanisms involved in this complex biological process remain. Thus, it is important to identify all genes that contribute to the kinematics and dynamics of closure. Here, we used a set of large deletions (deficiencies), which collectively remove 98.5% of the genes on the right arm of Drosophila melanogaster’s 2 nd chromosome to identify “dorsal closure deficiencies”. Through two crosses, we unambiguously identified embryos homozygous for each deficiency and time-lapse imaged them for the duration of closure. Images were analyzed for defects in cell shapes and tissue movements. Embryos homozygous for 47 deficiencies have notable, diverse defects in closure, demonstrating that a number of discrete processes comprise closure and are susceptible to mutational disruption. Further analysis of these deficiencies will lead to the identification of at least 30 novel “dorsal closure genes”. We expect that many of these novel genes will identify links to pathways and structures already known to coordinate various aspects of closure. We also expect to identify new processes and pathways that contribute to closure.