cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Incorporating 3-D parent nuclide zonation for apatite 4He/3He thermochronometry: An example from the Appalachian Mountains

The ability to constrain km-scale exhumation with apatite ^4He/^3He thermochronometry is well established and the technique has been applied to a range of tectonic and geomorphic problems. However, multiple sources of uncertainty in specific crystal characteristics limit the applicability of the method, especially when geologic problems require identifying small perturbations in a cooling path. Here we present new ^4He/^3He thermochronometric data from the Appalachian Mountains, which indicate significant parent nuclide zonation in an apatite crystal. Using LA-ICPMS measurements of U and Th in the same crystal, we design a 3-D model of the crystal to explore the effects of intra-crystal variability in radiation damage accumulation. We describe a numerical approach to solve the 3-D production-diffusion equation. Using our numerical model and a previously determined time temperature path for this part of the Appalachians, we find excellent agreement between predicted and observed ^4He/^3He spectra. Our results confirm this time-temperature path and highlight that for complex U and Th zonation patterns, 3-D numerical models are required to infer an accurate time-temperature history. In addition, our results provide independent and novel evidence for a radiation damage control on diffusivity. The ability to exploit intra-crystal differences in 4He diffusivity (i.e., temperature sensitivity) greatly increases the potential to infer complex thermal histories.
Notch-1 Confers Resistance to ErbB-2 Targeted Inhibition by Regulating PTEN, p27, and IGF-1R.

Background: Amplification, over-expression, and/or hyperactivity of ErbB-2 occur in 30% of breast tumors. Metastatic breast tumors that overexpress ErbB-2 are difficult to treat and generally resistant to trastuzumab or lapatinib. We have recently published that overexpression of ErbB-2 suppresses Notch-1 activity and this is reversed by inhibitors of ErbB-2, trastuzumab or a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (Osipo et al., 2008. Oncogene). Furthermore, we demonstrated that trastuzumab resistance is reversed when Notch-1 is downregulated by siRNA or when cells are treated with a gamma-secretase inhibitor. Overexpression of IGF-1R and/or downregulation of PTEN, and p27Kip1 have been shown to be very sensitive markers of trastuzumab resistance. Based on our results and what is known from the literature, we asked by what mechanism Notch-1 contributes to trastuzumab resistance and can a combination therapy prevent or reverse the resistant phenotype by using a pre-clinical in vivo model.Methods: Using a pcDNA3.1-NIC construct expressing activated Notch-1 and a Notch-1 siRNA, we either increased NIC levels in trastuzumab sensitive or downregulated Notch-1 in trastuzumab resistant BT474 cells, respectively and measured protein and mRNA expressions of PTEN, p27Kip1, and the IGF-1R. In addition, BT474 breast tumor xenografts were generated in athymic mice and randomized to vehicle, MRK-003 or Ly411,575 gamma-secretase inhibitor, trastuzumab, or trastuzumab plus a gamma-secretase inhibitor. Tumor size was measured up to 14 weeks with treatments and up to 12 weeks after stopping treatments.Results: The results showed that intracellular, active Notch-1 (ICN) increased mRNA and protein expression of the IGF-1R, while simultaneously decreased protein expressions of PTEN and p27Kip1 in ErbB-2 positive breast cancer cells sensitive to trastuzumab. Conversely, knockdown of Notch-1 by siRNA in resistant cells decreased IGF-1R, while increasing PTEN and p27Kip1. The xenograft studies demonstrated that combining a GSI with trastuzumab either completely prevented tumor recurrence (MRK-003 GSI) or significantly delayed tumor recurrence (Ly 411,575 GSI).Conclusions: Taken together, these results suggest that Notch-1 potentially contributes to trastuzumab resistance by upregulating the IGF-1R and downregulating PTEN and p27Kip1 in vitro. The benefit of inhibiting Notch activity using a GSI in combination with trastuzumab is prevention of resistance and tumor recurrence. Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(24 Suppl):Abstract nr 3123.
Determinants of National Fire Plan Fuels Treatment Expenditures: A Revealed Preference Analysis for Northern New Mexico

The accumulation of fire fuels in forests throughout the world contributes significantly to the severity of wildfires. To combat the threat of wildfire, especially in the wildland-urban interface (WUI), US federal land management agencies have implemented a number of forest restoration and wildfire risk reduction programs. In the spirit of revealed preference analyses, the objective of this study is to investigate the pattern and determinants of National Fire Plan (NFP) expenditures for fuel reduction treatments in northern New Mexico (USA). Estimation results from a set of Generalized Estimating Equations models are mixed with respect to risk reduction hypotheses, and also raise issues regarding how risk reduction should be defined for a region characterized by both pockets of urban sprawl into the WUI and large areas of chronic rural poverty. Program preferences for project funding under the federal Collaborative Forest Restoration Program in New Mexico are shown to be distinctly different (e.g., exhibiting greater concern for social equity) than for other NFP-funded projects.
Energy depletion in the liver and in isolated hepatocytes of tumor-bearing animals.

Abstract Cancer cachexia has a great impact on morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing surgery. Failure to maintain lean tissue against tumor-induced hypermetabolism results in cumulative weight loss and ultimate failure of the host. Cellular free energy is among the factors that regulates metabolic pathways and may be altered in the tumor-bearing state. We studied in-vivo and in-vitro ATP levels and metabolic parameters in Fischer rats bearing a methylcholanthrene-induced sarcoma to elucidate the energy state. Tissue ATP was measured in freeze-clamped liver and muscle in 15 tumor-bearing rats (TBR) at different tumor burdens and their pair-fed controls (CTR) by bioluminescence assay. Plasma metabolites, hormones, and enzymes were determined in the same animals. Liver ATP level was lower in TBR with a 5% tumor burden: 3.07 ± 0.56 (SE) nmole/mg tissue vs CTR: 5.33 ± 0.60 (P
The role of chemistry in controlling the bonding and fracture properties of grain boundaries in L12 intermetallic compounds

Among the main limitations of ordered intermetallic compounds such as Ni aluminides and silicides are their low room temperature ductility and propensity for intergranular fracture, behavior which has been attributed to both poor intergranular cohesion and environmental embrittlement. Microalloying is one of the approaches used to improve the mechanical properties of these compounds, with the most successful example being the addition of B to Ni-rich (76 at.% Ni) Ni 3 Al which results in a dramatic improvement in ductility and a change in fracture mode from intergranular to transgranular. However, the addition of B to Ni 3 Si and Zr to Ni-rich (77.3 at.% Ni) Ni 3 Al does not prevent intergranular fracture. The goal of the present study is to understand why B and Ni-enrichment are effective in improving boundary properties in Ni 3 Al, while Zr and B are ineffective in preventing intergranular fracture in Ni 3 Al and Ni 3 Si, respectively. Insight into the influence of local chemistry on the fracture properties of boundaries in intermetallic compounds may contribute to a better general understanding of the influence of solute segregation on the properties of grain boundaries in polycrystalline solids. The chemistry and electronic structure at grain boundaries in Ni 3 Al with and without B were examined using energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). B was shown to restore bulk-like bonding to grain boundaries in Ni 3 Al. The changes in bonding induced by B segregation were shown to result in lower grain boundary energy and improved grain boundary cohesive strength in Ni-rich Ni 3 Al. Similar studies were conducted on Ni 3 Si with and without B and Zr-doped Ni 3 Al, where the bonding at the boundaries was shown not to be significantly affected by the addition of dopants consistent with their ineffectiveness in preventing intergranular fracture. The relationship between the observed changes in bonding and the grain boundary energy, cohesive strength and fracture properties is discussed. To examine the effect of Ni-enrichment on grain boundary properties in Ni 3 Al, the chemistry and energy of antiphase boundaries (APB) at small angle boundaries were examined. Ni-enrichment at APBs was shown to lower their energy by replacing high energy Al-Al interactions with low energy Ni-Ni and Al-Al interactions. The implications of these observations for grain boundary properties are discussed.
Persistence and ruptures: the feminization of teaching and teacher education in Argentina

This article argues that in order to understand the feminization of the teaching profession in Argentina, it is essential to examine two key dynamics: (1) the historical and institutional life of teacher education programs and the social representations about what teachers ought to be advanced by those programs; and (2) the symbolic, economic and social relationships established between a feminized teaching workforce and the development and maintenance of a national project of public schooling. Accordingly this article will analyze the three most significant institutional structures developed to educate public school teachers in Argentina and the paradigmatic images of teaching emphasized by each model of teacher education: ‘normal school’, the ‘technical development school’ and the ‘flexible professional school’. Each of the three models had a favored social representation of teachers (‘apostles/second mothers’, ‘technicians’ and ‘adjusted professional’) which expressed in complex ways institutional resp...
Ondansetron Given in the Acute Withdrawal from a Repeated Cocaine Sensitization Dosing Regimen Reverses the Expression of Sensitization and Inhibits Self-administration

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were given two separate sensitizing regimens of cocaine (7 days on, 7 days off, 7 days on; 40 mg/kg/day s.c.) along with saline controls. Furthermore, animals also received the 5-HT3 antagonist ondansetron (0.2 mg/kg s.c.) either during the second dosing regimen (3.5 h after each cocaine/saline injection) or during the first five days of the second withdrawal period. Animals were then challenged, on day 10 of withdrawal, with cocaine (7.5 mg/kg i.p.) and assessed by a behavioral rating scale and locomotor activity monitoring. The cocaine regimen induced behavioral and locomotor sensitization on day 10 of withdrawal, further, ondansetron inhibited sensitization regardless of whether given after each second cocaine regimen dose or during the second withdrawal period, although treatment 3.5 h after each cocaine injection appeared more effective. Ondansetron did not inhibit behavior in control animals. In a second experiment animals were trained to self-administer cocaine via an indwelling jugular catheter. After stable fixed-ratio responding (FR1 then FR2) they were given a progressive ratio (PR) schedule until PR each day was stable. During the first five days of withdrawal they were given either ondansetron (0.2 mg/kg s.c.) or saline injections. On day 10 of withdrawal the cocaine PR schedule was reinstated. The ondansetron treated rats showed only a non-significant decrease in break point. After day 2 of the PR session rats were again injected with either ondansetron (0.2 mg/kg s.c.) or saline, 3.5 h after each PR session for five days. Ondansetron inhibited cocaine self-administration on each of the following days. Ondansetron may be a useful treatment for cocaine addicts who have undergone previous sensitization periods.
Single-layer dual microstrip-array antenna

A novel microstrip array antenna is presented. The proposed antenna is based on a standing-wave feed network, in which quarter-wave transformers are not required. A standing wave is formed in the microstrip lines that feed electromagnetic power to radiating elements. Such unique feeding scheme is advantageous compared to a corporate feed because the standing-wave feed can reduce spurious radiation from microstrip discontinuities of quarter-wave transformers. Also the standing-wave feed network makes a dual antenna realizable in a single-layer structure.
Diffusion of 51Cr in Surface Layers of Magnesia, Alumina, and Spinel

Note: Stubican, Vs Penn State Univ,Dept Mat Sci & Engn,University Pk,Pa 16802Age64Times Cited:12Cited References Count:17 Reference LC-ARTICLE-1985-008doi:10.1111/j.1151-2916.1985.tb15294.x Record created on 2006-08-21, modified on 2017-05-10
Secure Access for Healthcare Data in the Cloud Using Ciphertext-Policy Attribute-Based Encryption

As more and more healthcare organizations adopt electronic health records (EHRs), the case for cloud data storage becomes compelling for deploying EHR systems: not only is it inexpensive but it also provides the flexible, wide-area mobile access increasingly needed in the modern world. However, before cloud-based EHR systems can become a reality, issues of data security, patient privacy, and overall performance must be addressed. As standard encryption (including symmetric key and public key) techniques for EHR encryption/decryption cause increased access control and performance overhead, this paper proposes the use of Ciphertext-Policy Attribute-Based Encryption (CPABE) to encrypt EHRs based on healthcare providers' attributes or credentials, to decrypt EHRs, they must possess the set of attributes needed for proper access. The design and usage of a cloud-based EHR system based on CP-ABE is motivated and presented, along with preliminary experiments to analyze the flexibility and scalability of the proposed approach.
Two-dimensional periodic digital filters

Two-dimensional (2-D) periodically shift variant (PSV) digital filters are considered. The filters are formulated in the form of the Fornasini-Marchesini (FM) state-space model with periodic coefficients. This PSV model is then represented as a new shift-invariant system which is named the "Kiok-Neon" model. This model has several advantages that include ease of analysis and reduced computations compared to the existing state-space models. An algorithm is developed that transforms any given 2-D PSV FM system to its equivalent "Kiok-Neon" model. Invertibility of this model is an important consideration, especially in image scrambling applications. A condition is established for the invertibility of the "Kiok-Neon" model of the 2-D PSV system. Also, the inverse system can be easily computed from the original.
THE ROLE OF PAH-DNA ADDUCTS IN CAUSING CANCER

This article addresses the evidence for the mechanism of activation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) to “ultimate carcinogenic” DNA-binding metabolites in cells and describes how analysis of DNA adducts allowed the determination that the metabolites are dihydrodiol epoxides of PAH. Initially, the PAH-DNA adduct analysis techniques we developed allowed us to establish that the reactive form of PAH that bind to DNA in cells was not the K-region epoxide. Further development of PAH-DNA adduct analysis techniques allowed us to determine that in the case of the very potent carcinogen dibenzo[a,l]pyrene, the reactive metabolite was a diol epoxide with “fjord region” of the molecule. Collaborative studies of DNA adducts in cells from a mouse in which cytochrome P450 1B1 levels were knocked out demonstrated that DB[a,l]P activation to DNA binding intermediates was reduced to undetectable levels demonstrating the great importance of this enzyme in activating fjord region containing PAH.
Image guided near-infrared spectroscopy of breast tissue in vivo using boundary element method.

We demonstrate quantitative functional imaging using image- guided near-infrared spectroscopy (IG-NIRS) implemented with the boundary element method (BEM) for reconstructing 3-D optical prop- erty estimates in breast tissue in vivo. A multimodality MRI-NIR system was used to collect measurements of light reflectance from breast tis- sue. The BEM was used to model light propagation in 3-D based only on surface discretization in order to reconstruct quantitative values of total hemoglobin (HbT), oxygen saturation, water, and scatter. The tech- nique was validated in experimental measurements from heterogeneous breast-shaped phantoms with known values and applied to a total of seven subjects comprising six healthy individuals and one participant with cancer imaged at two time points during neoadjuvant chemother- apy. Using experimental measurements from a heterogeneous breast phantom, BEM for IG-NIRS produced accurate values for HbT in the inclusion with a <3% error. Healthy breast tissues showed higher HbT and water in fibroglandular tissue than in adipose tissue. In a subject with cancer, the tumor showed higher HbT compared to the back- ground. HbT in the tumor was reduced by 9 μM during treatment. We conclude that 3-D MRI-NIRS with BEM provides quantitative and func- tional characterization of breast tissue in vivo through measurement of hemoglobin content. The method provides potentially complemen- tary information to DCE-MRI for tumor characterization. C 2010 Society of
Labeled oxazaphosphorines for applications in MS studies. Synthesis of deuterium labeled cyclophosphamides and ifosfamides

A variety of deuterated 3-amino-1-propanols were made by the LiAlD 4 or AlD 3 reduction of nitrile or ester precursors. The labeled aminopropanols and/or deuterated bis(2-chloroethyl)amines were used to synthesize [4,4- 2 H 2 ]-, [6,6- 2 H 2 ]-, [α,α.α',α- 2 H 4 ]-, and [4,4,β,β,β',β'- 2 H 6 ]-cyclophosphamide. The labeled aminopropanols were also used to synthesize deuterated 3-(2'-benzyloxyethylamino)-1-propanols [BnOCH 2 CH 2 NH(CH 2 ) 3 OH] which, along with labeled and unlabeled 2-chloroethylamines, led to [4,4- 2 H 2 ]-, [6,6- 2 H 2 ]-, [α,α- 2 H 2 ]-, [α',α'- 2 H 2 ]-, [α,α.α',α'- 2 H 4 ]-, and [6,6,α,α,α',α'- 2 H 6] -ifosfamide.
Thermal Packaging for Transient Operation

This paper contains a brief study of thermal packaging of equipment for transient operation. The problem considered was this: Assuming no heat sink is available, how do we package equipment so that useful equipment operating time is a maximum?
The Geospatial and Temporal Distributions of Severe Thunderstorms from High-Resolution Dynamical Downscaling

Trendsinseverethunderstormsandtheassociatedphenomenaoftornadoes,hail,anddamagingwindshave beendifficulttodeterminebecauseofthemanyuncertaintiesinthehistoricaleyewitness-report-basedrecord. The authors demonstrate how a synthetic record that is based on high-resolution numerical modeling may be immune to these uncertainties. Specifically, a synthetic record is produced through dynamical downscaling of global reanalysisdata over the periodof 1990‐2009for the months of April‐June using the WeatherResearch and Forecasting model. An artificial neural network (ANN) is trained and then utilized to identify occurrences of severe thunderstorms in the model output. The model-downscaled precipitation was determined to have a high degree of correlation with precipitation observations. However, the model significantly overpredicted the amount of rainfall in many locations. The downscaling methodology and ANN generated a realistic temporal evolution of the geospatial severe-thunderstorm activity, with a geographical shift of the activity to the north and east as the warm season progresses. Regional time series of modeled severethunderstorm occurrences showednosignificanttrends overthe20-yr periodof consideration, incontrastto trends seen in the observational record. Consistently, no significant trend was found over the same 20-yr period in the environmental conditions that support the development of severe thunderstorms.
The V-Fields, Blocks 49/16, 49/21, 48/20a, 48/25b, UK North Sea

Abstract The Vulcan, Vanguard, North Valiant and South Valiant gas fields (collectively known as the 4 V-Fields) lie on the eastern flank of the Sole Pit Basin in the southern sector of the UK North Sea. They are contained within Blocks 49/16, 49/21, 48/25b and are operated by Conoco (UK) Limited. The first field to be discovered was South Valiant, in 1970 and exploration drilling continued until 1983 with the discovery of North Valiant, Vanguard and Vulcan Fields. Prominent faults and dip closures define the limits of the fields, and gas is contained within reservoir sands of Early Permian age, which are of desert origin. The gross average reservoir thckness is about 890 feet and porosities vary from 3-23% with permeabilities in producing zones varying from 0.1 md to 1950 md. Initial gas in place is estimated at 2.6 TCF with recoverable reserves of about 1.7 TCF. The fields were brought on-stream in October 1988 and produce, on average 325 MMSCFD of gas through the LOGGS complex to the Conoco/Britoil terminal at Theddlethorpe. Lincolnshire.
Inequality-Constrained Multivariate Smoothing Splines with Application to the Estimation of Posterior Probabilities

Abstract We consider the problem of estimating a smooth function of several variables given discrete, scattered, noisy observations of its values, and given that it satisfies a family of linear inequality constraints. Constraints such as positivity over some region are included. The model is z i = f(y 1(i), …, yd + e (i = 1, …, n), where the e i 's are independent zero mean random variables, f is assumed to be smooth, with smoothness defined in terms of square integrability of certain derivatives, and f is known to satisfy a given set of linear inequality constraints. It is proposed that f be estimated as the minimizer, in an appropriate function space, of subject to f satisfying the constraints if they are a finite family, or satisfying a finite approximating set of constraints if they are not a finite family, where J m(f) is the thin-plate penalty functional defined by J m(f) = Σα1 + … + αd = m (m!/α1! … αd!) ∫ … ∫ [δ m f/δyα 11 … δ yα d d]2 dy 1 … dy d. More generally, the results apply to the model wh...
Physiological and Biophysical Factors That Influence Alzheimer's Disease Amyloid Plaque Targeting of Native and Putrescine Modified Human Amyloid β40

Amyloid beta40 (Abeta40) and its derivatives are being developed as probes for the ante-mortem diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. Putrescine-Abeta40 (PUT-Abeta40) showed better plaque targeting than the native Abeta40, which was not solely explained by the differences in their blood-brain-barrier (BBB) permeabilities. The objective of this study was to elucidate the physiological and biophysical factors influencing the differential targeting of Abeta40 and PUT-Abeta40. Despite better plaque-targeting ability 125I-PUT-Abeta40 was more rapidly cleared from the systemic circulation than amyloid beta40 labeled with 125I (125I-Abeta40) after i.v. administration in mice. The BBB permeability of both compounds was inhibited by circulating peripheral Abeta40 levels. 125I-Abeta40 but not 125I-PUT-Abeta40 was actively taken up by the mouse brain slices in vitro. Only fluorescein-Abeta40, not fluorescein-PUT-Abeta40, was localized in the brain parenchymal cells in vitro. The metabolism of 125I-Abeta40 in the brain slices was twice as great as 125I-PUT-Abeta40. 125I-Abeta40 efflux from the brain slices was saturable and found to be 5 times greater than that of 125I-PUT-Abeta40. Thioflavin-T fibrillogenesis assay demonstrated that PUT-Abeta40 has a greater propensity to form insoluble fibrils compared with Abeta40, most likely due to the ability of PUT-Abeta40 to form beta sheet structure more readily than Abeta40. These results demonstrate that the inadequate plaque targeting of Abeta40 is due to cellular uptake, metabolism, and efflux from the brain parenchyma. Despite better plaque targeting of PUTAbeta40, its propensity to form fibrils may render it less suitable for human use and thus allow increased focus on the development of novel derivatives of Abeta with improved characteristics.
An easy technique for the removal of a hemodialysis catheter stuck in central veins.

BackgroundCentral venous catheters are currently used for long-term hemodialysis (HD) in a large number of patients. When the catheter needs to be removed, the removal is usually achieved without d...
Use of Vancomycin-Containing Lock or Flush Solutions for Prevention of Bloodstream Infection Associated with Central Venous Access Devices: A Meta-Analysis of Prospective, Randomized Trials

Background. Prolonged exposure to central venous access devices carries significant risk of device-associated bloodstream infection (BSI), which is associated with morbidity, added health care costs, and attributable mortality. We aimed to determine the efficacy of vancomycin-heparin lock or flush solution in preventing BSI in patients being treated with long-term central venous intravascular devices (IVDs). Methods. We collected data from January 1966 to January 2006 from multiple computerized databases and compiled reference lists of identified articles. We identified prospective, randomized controlled trials comparing a vancomycin-heparin lock or flush solution with heparin alone for prevention of BSI associated with long-term central venous IVDs. Using a standardized form, we abstracted data regarding study quality, patient characteristics, and incidence of BSI. Results. Seven randomized, controlled trials involving a total of 463 patients being treated with IVDs met the inclusion criteria; 5 studies were conducted among patients with cancer, 1 among a critically ill neonatal population, and 1 among patients with cancer or who required parenteral nutrition. We could not detect publication bias. The summary risk ratio with a vancomycin heparin-lock solution for IVD-associated BSI was 0.49 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.26‐0.95; ). Results of the test for heterogeneity were statistically significant; however, when P p .03 a single study was removed from the analysis, heterogeneity was no longer present. Use of vancomycin as a true lock solution—instilling it for a defined period, rather than simply flushing it directly through the device—conferred a much greater benefit, with a risk ratio of 0.34 (95% CI, 0.12‐0.98; ). The 2 studies that performed P p .04 prospective surveillance cultures to identify colonization or infection by vancomycin-resistant organisms did not find an increased risk. Conclusions. Use of a vancomycin lock solution in high-risk patient populations being treated with long-term central IVDs reduces the risk of BSI. The use of an anti-infective lock solution warrants consideration for patients who require central access but who are at high risk of BSI, such as patients with malignancy or low-birthweight neonates.
Kappa opioid receptor endocytosis by dynorphin peptides.

Internalization and downregulation are important steps in the modulation of receptor function. Recent work with the beta2 adrenergic and opioid receptors have implicated these processes in receptor-mediated activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). We have used CHO cells expressing epitope-tagged rat kappa opioid receptors (rKORs) and prodynorphin-derived peptides to characterize the agonist-mediated endocytosis of rKORs and activation of MAPK. Kappa receptor-selective peptides induced receptor internalization and downregulation whereas nonpeptide agonists did not. An examination of the ability of dynorphin A-17-related peptides (lacking C-terminal amino acids) to promote KOR internalization, inhibition of adenylyl cyclase, and MAPK phosphorylation revealed that the N-terminal seven residues play an important role in eliciting these responses. Both dynorphin peptides and nonpeptide agonists induced rapid and robust phosphorylation of MAPKs. Taken together, these results point to a difference ...
A survey for Cyclospora spp. in Kenyan primates, with some notes on its biology.

From March 1999 through August 2000, 511 stool samples collected from 11 different primate species in 10 geographically distinct locations in Kenya, East Africa, were screened for the presence of Cyclospora spp. oocysts. Positive samples (43/102, 42%) were identified in vervet monkeys (Cercopithecus aethiops) in 4 of 4 locations; 19/206 (9%) in yellow and olive baboons (Papio cynocephalus, P. anubis, respectively) in 5 of 5 locations; and 19/76 (25%) in black and white colobus monkeys (Colobus angolensis, C. guereza, respectively) from 2 of 3 locations. DNA sequences obtained from 18 S rRNA coding regions from respective subsets of these positive samples were typed as Cyclospora cercopitheci (samples from Cercopithecus aethiops), Cyclospora papionis (samples from Papio cynocephalus and P. anubis), and Cyclospora colobi (samples from Colobus angolensis and C. guereza). Cyclospora oocysts were not detected in samples collected from patas, highland sykes, lowland sykes, blue sykes, DeBrazza, or red-tailed mo...
The Prediction of Violent Behavior During Short-Term Civil Commitment

The predictive validity of the clinical judgment of dangerousness in the context of short-term civil commitment was studied prospectively by comparing the behavioral scale ratings of both verbal and physical aggression between 37 persons committed on the basis of "danger to others" versus 31 persons committed on other grounds. No statistically significant difference was found between these two groups of detainees with regard to the levels of aggression measured during their approximately three-day detention. This finding is in agreement with abundant previous research which documents the inability of psychiatrists to accurately predict future dangerousness, prompting the author to suggest that the "dangerousness" criterion for civil commitment be rejected. Although society is unlikely to resurrect the broadly defined "in need of treatment" criterion because of its historically demonstrated ever present potential for abuse, the author suggests an alternative criterion for civil commitment which, in perhaps a more well-defined and more practical way, would allow the state to maintain its doctrine of parens patriae toward mental patients.
Missouri River Slope and Sediment

The project for the improvement of the Missouri River consists primarily of open-channel regulation, which contracts the natural channel in addition to materially changing its shape. A general desc...
Effect of PTFE Content in Microporous Layer on Water Management

The effect of hydrophobic agent (PTFE) concentration in the microporous layer on the PEM fuel cell performance was investigated using mercury porosimetry, water permeation experiment, and electrochemical polarization technique. When air was used as an oxidant, a maximum fuel cell performance was obtained for a PTFE loading of 20 wt%. The polarization study indicated that the optimized PTFE content reduces oxygen transport limitation in the catalyst layer as well as in the gas diffusion layer by controlling liquid water saturation in the membrane-electrode assembly.
Back Pain and Neuraxial Anesthesia

The incidence of back pain after neuraxial anesthesia in the adult population is not different from that after general anesthesia. The pain is usually mild, localized in the low back, rarely radiates to the lower extremities, and has a duration of only a few days. The risk factors for development of back pain include the lithotomy position, multiple attempts at block placement, duration of surgery longer than 2.5 hours, body mass index ≥32 kg/m, and a history of back pain. However, there is no permanent worsening of preexisting back pain after neuraxial anesthesia. The back pain has been attributed to tears in the ligaments, fascia, or bone with localized bleeding; immobility of the spine; relaxation of the paraspinal muscles under anesthesia; flattening of the normal lumbar convexity; and stretching and straining of the lumbosacral ligaments and joint capsules. The addition of an anti-inflammatory drug to the local anesthetic used for skin infiltration may decrease the incidence and severity of back pain. The use of spinal or epidural anesthesia in the adult, non-obstetric and obstetric populations should depend on the advantages offered by the technique and not on the occurrence of back pain after the procedure. Additional studies are needed to confirm the efficacy of epidural dexamethasone, or other steroids, or the addition of an anti-inflammatory drug to the local anesthetic infiltration for the prevention of back pain after neuraxial anesthesia. Future studies should involve a physician with expertise in the evaluation of chronic low back pain to help identify the cause of the back pain and institute appropriate treatment(s).
The lung profile. II. Complicated pregnancy

Abstract The lung profile in amniotic fluid was studied in relation to the various classes of diabetes, to prolonged rupture of membranes, and to hypertension in pregnancy. Pregnancy-induced (Class A, gestational) diabetes mellitus showed a statistically significant delay in appearance of PG, thus a delay in maturation not related to lecithin; also PI levels in Class A diabetes remained elevated longer than normal. Other classes of diabetes were no different from normal except for accelerated maturation in F and R diabetes, where PG appeared before L/S ratios were mature (>2.0), but the small numbers of studies from patients with F and R diabetes were obscured when combined with the much larger number from D diabetes, which statisticaUy were no different from normal. Prolonged rupture of membranes by regression analysis showed clear statistically significant acceleration of maturation affecting both the L/S ratio and PG, which appeared early. HypertensiOn in pregnancy included mostly patients with mild terminal pre-eclampsia who were no different from normal; the relatively small number of samples from patients with severe pregnancy-induced hypertension, “chronic” toxemia, showed accelerated maturation (sometimes with L/S ratios >2.0 and early PG) which was obscured by the large number of mild problems. The appearance of PG signals the late (“final”) maturation of surfactant. Diabetic pregnancy of any class can safely be delivered free of ADS after PG appears.
Retinoblastoma: Advanced Imaging, Clinical Approach

Retinoblastoma (RB) is a malignant tumor of the retina and the most common intraocular pediatric tumor. It typically affects children younger than 4 years of age. Loss or mutation of RB genes causes absence of RB control protein and subsequent uncontrolled cell division and tumor growth. In this review article, we describe how two forms of RB—germline (40%) and somatic sporadic (60%)—differ in their clinical presentation and prognosis. The accurate diagnosis, staging, and monitoring of the disease may be achieved with a combination of ophthalmologic examination, genetic analysis, and modern imaging. We refer to a spectrum of clinical and imaging modalities, which may be used in the diagnosis of RB. The advantages and shortcomings of ocular ultrasound, orbital computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are described. Modern imaging protocols allow for better assessment of disease extension and can help make treatment decisions for eye-sparing procedures in some cases to avoid enucleation. Essential components of optimal orbital MRI are emphasized. The roles of various MRI sequences are highlighted for demonstration of original tumor morphology and extension, and for the accurate assessment of disease progression and response of RB to treatment on follow-up examinations. Imaging features of aggressive or advanced disease and normal appearance of posttreatment eye and posttreatment complications are also illustrated.
The Transcription Factor ATF5 Mediates a Mammalian Mitochondrial UPR.

Mitochondrial dysfunction is pervasive in human pathologies such as neurodegeneration, diabetes, cancer, and pathogen infections as well as during normal aging. Cells sense and respond to mitochondrial dysfunction by activating a protective transcriptional program known as the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPR(mt)), which includes genes that promote mitochondrial protein homeostasis and the recovery of defective organelles [1, 2]. Work in Caenorhabditis elegans has shown that the UPR(mt) is regulated by the transcription factor ATFS-1, which is regulated by organelle partitioning. Normally, ATFS-1 accumulates within mitochondria, but during respiratory chain dysfunction, high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), or mitochondrial protein folding stress, a percentage of ATFS-1 accumulates in the cytosol and traffics to the nucleus where it activates the UPR(mt) [2]. While similar transcriptional responses have been described in mammals [3, 4], how the UPR(mt) is regulated remains unclear. Here, we describe a mammalian transcription factor, ATF5, which is regulated similarly to ATFS-1 and induces a similar transcriptional response. ATF5 expression can rescue UPR(mt) signaling in atfs-1-deficient worms requiring the same UPR(mt) promoter element identified in C. elegans. Furthermore, mammalian cells require ATF5 to maintain mitochondrial activity during mitochondrial stress and promote organelle recovery. Combined, these data suggest that regulation of the UPR(mt) is conserved from worms to mammals.
WE-A-BRC-02: Lessons Learned: Clinical Trials and Operations

Quality and safety in healthcare are inextricably linked. There are compelling data that link poor quality radiation therapy to inferior patient survival. Radiation Oncology clinical trial protocol deviations often involve incorrect target volume delineation or dosing, akin to radiotherapy incidents which also often involve partial geometric miss or improper radiation dosing. When patients with radiation protocol variations are compared to those without significant protocol variations, clinical outcome is negatively impacted. Traditionally, quality assurance in radiation oncology has been driven largely by new technological advances, and safety improvement has been driven by reactive responses to past system failures and prescriptive mandates recommended by professional organizations and promulgated by regulators. Prescriptive approaches to quality and safety alone often do not address the huge variety of process and technique used in radiation oncology. Risk-based assessments of radiotherapy processes provide a mechanism to enhance quality and safety, both for new and for established techniques. It is imperative that we explore such a paradigm shift at this time, when expectations from patients as well as providers are rising while available resources are falling. There is much we can learn from our past experiences to be applied towards the new risk-based assessments. Learning Objectives: 1.Understand the impact of clinical and technical quality on outcomes 2.Understand the importance of quality care in radiation oncology 3.Learn to assess the impact of quality on clinical outcomes D. Followill, NIH Grant CA180803
Modulation of the β2-Integrin Axis in Inflammatory Cell Trafficking By Fucosylated Ligands

Leukocyte trafficking to a site of inflammation, in which selectin-mediated recruitment is the well-established initial step in mouse and humans, requires α1,3-fucosylated carbohydrates as canonical selectin ligands. Disrupting these ligands mitigates leukocyte recruitment, and this pathway presents a choice target in managing inflammatory conditions. Here we report that fucose can act paradoxically in cell recruitment to select sites of inflammation. α1,3-Fucose deficient neutrophils lacking the fucosyltransferases Fut4 and Fut7 have severely impaired recruitment in the well-established selectin dependent acute peritonitis. By contrast they are preferentially recruited to inflamed airways, because α1,3-fucose deficiency augments CXCR2 mediated Rap1-GTP signaling and enhances the β2 integrin - ICAM-1 axis to promote neutrophil recruitment. Recognition of this newly identified role for α1,3-fucoslated carbohydrates in modulating the integrin axis of inflammatory cell recruitment illuminates the unique pathophysiology of the airway and new insights into therapeutic anti-inflammatory approaches. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Isotope Dilution UPLC-APCI-MS/MS Method for the Quantitative Measurement of Aromatic Diamines in Human Urine: Biomarkers of Diisocyanate Exposure

Urinary diamines are biomarkers of diisocyanate exposure. Diisocyanates are considered as skin and respiratory sensitizers and are the most frequently reported cause of occupational asthma. Herein we report on the development and validation of an ultraperformance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) method for the measurement of five aromatic diamines, 4,4′-methylenedianiline (MDA), 2,4-toluenediamine (4TDA), 2,6-toluenediamine (6TDA), 1,5-naphthalenediamine (NDA), and p-phenylenediamine (PPDA) in human urine. The method incorporates sample preparation steps, which include a 4 h acid hydrolysis followed by high-throughput solid-phase extraction prior to chromatographic separation. Chromatographic separation was achieved using a C18 reversed phase column with gradient elution of basic mobile phases (pH 9.2). The duty cycle of the method was less than 5 min, including both the column equilibration and autosampler movement. Analytical detection was performed using positive ion atmosphe...
What Can We Learn from Taiwanese Teachers About Teaching Controversial Public Issues

Normal 0 10 pt 0 2 false false false EN-US ZH-TW X-NONE This study explores how history teachers in Taiwan make curricular decisions while engaging controversial public issues. The main political controversies discussed in Taiwanese society center on the relationship between Taiwan and the People’s Republic of China. This study documents how four social studies teachers formulate their curricular decisions through the intersecting lenses of professional knowledge and personal beliefs. Findings illuminate the role of personal experience and belief in teacher’s curricular-instructional gatekeeping in socially divisive contexts. In sum, this study helps as understand the relationship between a teacher’s own imaginative worldview, sense of personal and professional identity, and their classroom teaching practices.
Using diets of Canis breeding pairs to assess resource partitioning between sympatric red wolves and coyotes

Foraging behaviors of red wolves (Canis rufus) and coyotes (Canis latrans) are complex and their ability to form congeneric breeding pairs and hybridize further complicates our understanding of factors influencing their diets. Through scat analysis, we assessed prey selection of red wolf, coyote, and congeneric breeding pairs formed by red wolves and coyotes, and found that all 3 had similar diets. However, red wolf and congeneric pairs consumed more white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) than coyote pairs. Coyotes forming breeding pairs with red wolves had 12% more white-tailed deer in their diet than conspecifics paired with coyotes. Contrary to many studies on coyotes in the southeastern United States, we found coyotes in eastern North Carolina to be primarily carnivorous with increased consumption of deer during winter. Although prey selection was generally similar among the 3 groups, differences in diet among different breeding pairs were strongly associated with body mass. Larger breeding pairs consumed more white-tailed deer, and fewer rabbits (Sylvilagus spp.) and other small mammals. Partitioning of food resources by sympatric red wolves and coyotes is likely via differences in the proportions of similar prey consumed, rather than differences in types of prey exploited. Consequently, our results suggest coexistence of red wolves and coyotes in the southeastern United States may not be possible because there are limited opportunities for niche partitioning to reduce competitive interactions.
The Role of DYNAMO in Situ Observations in Improving NASA Ceres-like Daily Surface and Atmospheric Radiative Flux Estimates

The daily surface and atmospheric radiative fluxes from NASA Clouds and the Earths RadiantEnergy System (CERES) Synoptic 1 degree (SYN1deg) Ed3A are among the most widely used data to studycloud-radiative feedback. The CERES SYN1deg data are based on Fu-Liou radiative transfer computations thatuse specific humidity (Q) and air temperature (T) from NASA Global Modeling and Assimilation Office (GMAO)reanalyses as inputs and are therefore subject to the quality of those fields. This study uses in situ Q and Tobservations collected during the Dynamics of the Madden-Julian Oscillation (DYNAMO) field campaign toaugment the input stream used in the NASA GMAO reanalysis and assess the impact on the CERES dailysurface and atmospheric longwave estimates. The results show that the assimilation of DYNAMOobservations considerably improves the vertical profiles of analyzed Q and T over and near DYNAMO stationsby moistening and warming the lower troposphere and upper troposphere and drying and cooling themid-upper troposphere. As a result of these changes in Q and T, the computed CERES daily surface downwardlongwave flux increases by about 5 W m(exp -2), due mainly to the warming and moistening in the lowertroposphere; the computed daily top-of-atmosphere (TOA) outgoing longwave radiation increases by2-3 W m(exp -2) during dry periods only. Correspondingly, the estimated local atmospheric longwave radiativecooling enhances by about 5 W m(exp -2) (7-8 W m(exp -2)) during wet (dry) periods. These changes reduce the bias inthe CERES SYN1deg-like daily longwave estimates at both the TOA and surface and represent animprovement over the DYNAMO region.
The Dog Days of Summer

The Republican convention was judged a “big hot mess” by many critics, and Trump’s speech was seen as overly pessimistic, uninspiring, and poorly delivered, playing on the rage and fear that motivated many who came to Trump’s rallies, but not to mainstream Republicans. The Democrats convention, by contrast, was appraised a success.
Great walls over African rivers: Chinese engagement in African hydropower projects

Recent acceleration of Chinese engagement in African hydropower is attracting increasing attention and concern. Yet there is scant research and little reliable data on this engagement. This paper analyzes Chinese hydropower engagement based on a new, verified dataset. We examined over 100 projects reported by the media and lists compiled by other organizations, amassing case studies for each project using desk research, interviews, and field visits. We demonstrate that Chinese engagement in African hydropower is often overestimated in both numbers and value. Further, misunderstanding and myths abound regarding Chinese financing and construction practices. This evidence-based understanding provides a firmer foundation for advocacy, research, and efforts by other companies and funding agencies to cooperate with Chinese actors in this controversial sector. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Neuroendocrine Aspects of PTSD

This chapter discussed how neuroendocrine findings in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) potentially inform hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) alterations in PTSD and highlight alterations relevant to the identification of targets for drug development. Most studies demonstrate alterations consistent with an enhanced negative feedback inhibition of cortisol on the pituitary, an overall hyperreactivity of other target tissues (adrenal gland, hypothalamus), or both in PTSD. However, findings of low cortisol and increased reactivity of the pituitary in PTSD are also consistent with reduced adrenal output. The observations in PTSD are part of a growing body of neuroendocrine data providing evidence of insufficient glucocorticoid signaling in stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders.