cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Combining Diffusion NMR and Small-Angle Neutron Scattering Enables Precise Measurements of Polymer Chain Compression in a Crowded Environment

The effect of particles on the behavior of polymers in solution is important in a number of important phenomena such as the effect of ``crowding'' proteins in cells, colloid-polymer mixtures, and nanoparticle ``fillers'' in polymer solutions and melts. In this Letter, we study the effect of spherical inert nanoparticles (which we refer to as ``crowders'') on the diffusion coefficient and radius of gyration of polymers in solution using pulsed-field-gradient NMR and small-angle neutron scattering (SANS), respectively. The diffusion coefficients exhibit a plateau below a characteristic polymer concentration, which we identify as the overlap threshold concentration ${c}^{\ensuremath{\star}}$. Above ${c}^{\ensuremath{\star}}$, in a crossover region between the dilute and semidilute regimes, the (long-time) self-diffusion coefficients are found, universally, to decrease exponentially with polymer concentration at all crowder packing fractions, consistent with a structural basis for the long-time dynamics. The radius of gyration obtained from SANS in the crossover regime changes linearly with an increase in polymer concentration, and must be extrapolated to ${c}^{\ensuremath{\star}}$ in order to obtain the radius of gyration of an individual polymer chain. When the polymer radius of gyration and crowder size are comparable, the polymer size is very weakly affected by the presence of crowders, consistent with recent computer simulations. There is significant chain compression, however, when the crowder size is much smaller than the polymer radius gyration.
Effects of MMP12 on cell motility and inflammation during corneal epithelial repair

Corneal epithelial defects are a common cause of ocular morbidity and can result in corneal scarring if they do not heal properly. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are extracellular matrix proteinases that regulate multiple aspects of corneal repair. We have previously shown that MMP12 has a protective effect on corneal fibrosis through its regulation of neutrophil and macrophage infiltration and angiogenesis in a chemical injury model involving full thickness damage to the cornea. However, the role of MMP12 in injuries limited to the corneal epithelium is relatively unknown. This study investigates the reparative effects of MMP12 following isolated corneal epithelial injury. Using a corneal epithelial debridement injury model performed on corneas of wild-type (WT) mice, we show that Mmp12 is expressed early following corneal epithelial injury with highest expression levels at 8 h after injury and lower expression levels at 4 and 8 days after injury. We investigated whether MMP12 has an effect on the rate of epithelial repair and cell migration using in vivo and in vitro scratch assays performed on WT and Mmp12-/- mice. We found that loss of MMP12 results in a slower scratch wound repair rate both in vivo and in vitro. We also found that corneas of Mmp12-/- mice have decreased neutrophil infiltration following injury. Loss of MMP12, however, does not affect cell proliferation in the center of the wounds. These data support a role of MMP12 in promoting early repair processes following corneal epithelial injury by enhancing epithelial cell migration and neutrophil infiltration.
NCMB-button: a wearable non-contact system for long-term multiple biopotential monitoring

This paper presents a button-like wearable wireless non-contact system (NCMB-Button) for long-term multiple biopotential monitoring. Featured non-contact detection based on ultra-high input impedance of the analog front end, the NCMB-Button is capable of acquiring multiple biopotential signals including ECG, EMG, and EEG, through multiple layers of cloth without directly contacting human skin. The detecting performance is also enhanced by introducing the feedback into the skin. The system is powered by a 150 mAh rechargeable Li-ion battery and packaged into a 39 mm × 32 mm × 17 mm 3D printed small box. A power management circuit is also designed to provide dual power supply for op amps. The total weight of the system is 24.0 g. The detection performance is validated through multiple motion scenarios with different types of cloth. The results show that the ECG and EMG signals are able to be detected through up to 19 layers of cloth (Polyester) with fast recovery from motion artifacts. The EEG signals are also detected during which the alpha wave in drowsy condition is visible. The NCMB-Button demonstrates the feasibility of long-term biopotential monitoring for daily application without affecting daily activities.
Regulation of XPC deubiquitination by USP11 in repair of UV-induced DNA damage

// Palak Shah 1,2 , Lei Qiang 1 , Seungwon Yang 1 , Keyoumars Soltani 1 and Yu-Ying He 1,2 1 Department of Medicine, Section of Dermatology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA 2 Committee on Molecular Pathogenesis and Molecular Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA Correspondence to: Yu-Ying He, email: // Keywords : USP11; XPC; UVB; nucleotide excision repair; skin cancer Received : September 05, 2017 Accepted : October 13, 2017 Published : October 29, 2017 Abstract Nucleotide excision repair (NER) is the most versatile DNA repair pathway for removing DNA damage caused by UV radiation and many environmental carcinogens. NER is essential for suppressing tumorigenesis in the skin, lungs and brain. Although the core NER proteins have been identified and characterized, molecular regulation of NER remains poorly understood. Here we show that ubiquitin-specific peptidase 11 (USP11) positively regulates NER by deubiquitinating xeroderma pigmentosum complementation group C (XPC) and promoting its retention at the DNA damage sites. In addition, UV irradiation induces both USP11 recruitment to the chromatin and USP11 interaction with XPC in an XPC-ubiquitination-dependent manner. Furthermore, we found that USP11 is down-regulated in chronically UV-exposed mouse skin and in skin tumors from mice and humans. Our findings indicate that USP11 plays an important role in maintaining NER capacity, and suggest that USP11 acts as a tumor suppressor via its role in DNA repair.
Investigating Colonization of the Healthy Adult Gastrointestinal Tract by Fungi.

ABSTRACT A wide diversity of fungi have been detected in the human gastrointestinal (GI) tract with the potential to provide or influence important functions. However, many of the fungi most commonly detected in stool samples are also present in food or the oral cavity. Therefore, to recognize which gut fungi are likely to have a sustained influence on human health, there is a need to separate transient members of the GI tract from true colonizers. To identify colonizing fungi, the eukaryotic rRNA operon’s second internal transcribed spacer (ITS2) was sequenced from the stool, saliva, and food of healthy adults following consumption of different controlled diets. Unlike most bacterial 16S rRNA genes, the only fungal ITS2 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) detected in stool DNA across multiple diets were also present in saliva and/or food. Additional analyses, including culture-based approaches and sequencing of the 18S rRNA gene, ITS2 cDNA, and DNA extracted using alternative methods, failed to detect additional fungi. Two abundant fungi, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Candida albicans, were examined further in healthy volunteers. Saccharomyces became undetectable in stool when a S. cerevisiae-free diet was consumed, and the levels of C. albicans in stool were dramatically reduced by more frequent cleaning of teeth. Extremely low fungal abundance, the inability of fungi to grow under conditions mimicking the distal gut, and evidence from analysis of other public datasets further support the hypothesis that fungi do not routinely colonize the GI tracts of healthy adults. IMPORTANCE We sought to identify the fungi that colonize healthy GI tracts and that have a sustained influence on the diverse functions of the gut microbiome. Instead, we found that all fungi in the stool of healthy volunteers could be explained by their presence in oral and dietary sources and that our results, together with those from other analyses, support the model that there is little or no gastrointestinal colonization by fungi. This may be due to Westernization, primate evolution, fungal ecology, and/or the strong defenses of a healthy immune system. Importantly, fungal colonization of the GI tract may often be indicative of disease. As fungi can cause serious infections in immunocompromised individuals and are found at increased abundance in multiple disorders of the GI tract, understanding normal fungal colonization is essential for proper treatment and prevention of fungal pathogenesis.
Identifying New Diseases and Their Causes: The Dilemma of Illnesses in Gulf War Veterans

Since the Gulf War, investigation continues of symptoms and illnesses among its veterans. Yet, identifying a specific "Gulf War Syndrome" remains elusive. With new disease entities, causal associations are relatively easily established when the condition is serious, verifiable, and has excess disease rates in specific groups. In common conditions, many excess cases are required to establish association with a specific exposure. Establishing causality in syndromes with variable symptoms is difficult because specific diagnostic algorithms must be established before causal factors can be properly investigated. Searching for an environmental cause is futile in the absence of an operational disease case definition. Common subjective symptoms (without objective physical or laboratory findings) account for over one-half of all medical outpatient visits, yet these symptoms lack an identified physical cause at least one-third of the time. Our medical care system has difficulty dealing with disorders where there is no identified anatomic abnormality or documented metabolic/physiological dysfunction.
Broadening of Modeled Cloud Droplet Spectra Using Bin Microphysics in an Eulerian Spatial Domain

AbstractThis study investigates droplet size distribution (DSD) characteristics from condensational growth and transport in Eulerian dynamical models with bin microphysics. A hierarchy of modeling ...
Evaluation of the Microbotox Technique: An Algorithmic Approach for Lower Face and Neck Rejuvenation and a Crossover Clinical Trial.

Background Microbotox consists of the injection of microdroplets of botulinum toxin into the dermis to improve the different lower face and neck aging components. No clinical trial has evaluated its effect on the different face and neck components and no study has compared it to the "Nefertiti lift" procedure. Methods In this crossover study, patients previously treated with the Nefertiti lift were injected using the microbotox technique. Using standardized preinjection and postinjection photographs, the jowls, marionette lines, oral commissures, neck volume, and platysmal bands at maximal contraction and at rest were assessed with validated photonumeric scales. In addition, the overall appearance of the lower face and neck was evaluated by the Investigators and Subjects Global Aesthetic Improvement Score. Pain and patient satisfaction rates were also evaluated. Results Twenty-five of the 30 patients previously treated with the Nefertiti technique were injected with a mean dose of 154 U using the microbotox technique. Platysmal bands with contraction, jowls, and neck volume reached a statistically significant improvement. The microbotox technique improved the jowls and the neck volume more than the Nefertiti technique, whereas the platysmal bands at rest and with contraction were more improved by the Nefertiti technique. One hundred percent of patients were satisfied with both techniques and rated themselves as improved. Conclusions The microbotox technique is a useful, simple, and safe procedure for lower face and neck rejuvenation. It is mainly effective in treating neck and lower face soft-tissue ptosis, in contrast to the Nefertiti technique, which is more effective on platysmal bands. Clinical question/level of evidence Therapeutic, IV.
Efficient and Secure Multicast in WirelessMAN: A Cross-layer Design

Effectively adding security measures to a multicast service is an intriguing problem, especially when the service is deployed in a wireless setting. Next generation IEEE 802.16 standard WirelessMAN networks are a perfect example of this problem, and the latest draft specification of the standard includes a secure protocol solution called Multicast and Broadcast Rekeying Algorithm (MBRA). In this paper, we expose the security problems of MBRA, including non-scalability and omission of backward and forward secrecy, and propose new approaches, ELAPSE and ELAPSE+, to address these problems. In particular, ELAPSE+ makes use of membership and mobility information gathered in the application layer to augment the adaptive group management in the MAC layer. We analyze the security property of ELAPSE and ELAPSE+, and compare their performances with MBRA by simulating group rekeying scenarios.
Red imported fire ant impact on wildlife: An overview

We reviewed the past 50 years of literature concerning red imported fire ant impacts on wildlife species. The red imported fire ant has had a negative impact on numerous species of wildlife. However, experimental evidence of population-level impacts is meager. We discuss potential fire ant perturbations and suggest research directions that may settle the long-standing controversy concerning the impact of imported fire ants on native vertebrates and the ecosystems they have invaded. Key
Developing a Simple Neuroevolutionary Platform

In this chapter, we take our first step towards neuroevolution. Having developed a NN system capable of having its synaptic weights optimized, we will combine it with an evolutionary algorithm. We will create a population_monitor, a process that spawns a population of NN systems, monitors their performance, applies a selection algorithm to the NNs in the population, and generates the mutant offspring from the fit NNs, while removing the unfit. In this chapter we also add topological mutation operators to our neuroevolutionary system, which will allow the population_monitor to evolve the NNs by adding new neural elements to their topologies. By the end of this chapter, our system becomes a fully-fledged Topology and Weight Evolving Artificial Neural Network.
Partial purification of goat kidney beta-mannosidase.

Abstract 1. Goat kidney beta-mannosidase was purified 8500-fold to a specific activity of 65,000 nmol/h per mg of protein with a 6% yield by using multiple steps including cation-exchange and anion-exchange fast protein liquid chromatography. This is the first description of a highly purified preparation from goat tissue; however, it was not homogeneous, as judged by silver-stained SDS/polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis. 2. The enzyme exhibited microheterogeneity when analysed by isoelectric focusing (pI 5.5-6.5). 3. Purified beta-mannosidase hydrolysed the terminal beta-(1----4)-linkage of oligosaccharides that accumulate in beta-mannosidosis.
Paediatric anterior cruciate ligament tears: management and growth disturbances. A survey of EPOS and POSNA membership

Abstract Purpose The therapeutic algorithm of paediatric anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears remains controversial. The primary aim of the study was to describe variations in practice patterns a...
On the generalized Hilbert-Kunz function and multiplicity

Let (R, m) be a local ring of characteristic p > 0 and M a finitely generated R-module. In this note we consider the limit $$\mathop {\lim }\limits_{n \to \infty } \frac{{l(H_m^0({F^n}(M)))}}{{{p^{n\dim R}}}}$$ where F(-) is the Peskine-Szpiro functor. A consequence of our main results shows that the limit always exists when R is excellent, equidimensional and has an isolated singularity. Furthermore, if R is a complete intersection, then the limit is 0 if and only if the projective dimension of M is less than the Krull dimension of R. We exploit this fact to give a quick proof that if R is a complete intersection of dimension 3, then the Picard group of the punctured spectrum of R is torsion-free. Our results work quite generally for other homological functors and can be used to prove that certain limits recently studied by Brenner exist over projective varieties.
Twelve-month prescribing of contraceptive pill, patch, and ring before and after a standardized electronic medical record order change.

Abstract Objective To evaluate the proportion of 12-month contraceptive pill, patch, and ring prescriptions before and after an institution-wide change of default electronic medical record facility orders to dispensing 12-month supply. Study design This retrospective pre-post study compares outpatient contraception prescriptions from August 10, 2019 through April 9, 2020 obtained from our institutional electronic medical record prescription database. On December 10, 2019, we facilitated a change in the default orders for dispensing self-administered hormonal contraceptives from one-month to 12-months. We evaluated the primary outcome of 12-month supply prescriptions during the four months before and after the change. We also compared 12-month supply prescriptions for pills, patch, and ring by prescriber specialty and location. Results The dataset included 4897 distinct evaluable prescriptions for the pill, patch, or ring, with an overall increase in 12-month prescriptions from 260/2437 (10.7%) to 669/2460 (27.2%) after the order change (p Conclusion Providers more frequently prescribed a 12-month supply of contraceptive pills, patches, and rings after a change in the default dispensing quantity in electronic medical record orders. Implications Institution-wide changes to the electronic medical record default facility order settings can increase 12-month supply contraceptive prescriptions. As a 12-month prescription order represents only one step of many in obtaining a 12-month contraception supply, additional research is required to elucidate and remove other potential barriers.
Young at heart? Drugs of abuse cause early-onset cardiovascular disease in the young.

We are all familiar with them, from alcohol and tobacco to methamphetamine and cannabis. While drugs of abuse are often used as important medications (eg, opioids for pain management), the non-medical use of these substances has been trending upward globally,1 which is likely to be accelerated by the global coronavirus pandemic and its concomitant mental health crisis. There has been a particularly notable increase in the abuse of synthetic opioids (eg, fentanyl) and stimulants (eg, methamphetamine), with growing evidence of an epidemic of simultaneous polysubstance abuse of opioids with methamphetamine. In the USA, the emerging methamphetamine crisis has led to congressional introduction of the Methamphetamine Response Act to forestall or prevent the development of this crisis in its early stages. Since the advent of antibiotics in the early 20th century, cardiovascular disease has been the leading cause of death in the USA. While therapeutic advances have reduced the incidence of cardiovascular diseases over the past 30 years, we have recently seen an uptick in the incidence of cardiovascular disease. Although prevalent in the aged population, atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVDs), such as ischaemic heart disease (IHD), ischaemic cerebrovascular disease and peripheral arterial disease, have shown an alarming rise in young patients.2 However, the causal factors contributing to this premature ASCVD remain undefined. Substance use disorders have been associated with an acceleration of the ageing process. Use of cocaine and methamphetamine have been associated with accelerated cellular ageing and neurocognitive decline with greater than normal age-related cortical grey matter loss.3–5 In parallel to accelerated ageing, growing evidence suggests that the substance use disorder epidemics may accelerate vascular ageing and contribute to early-onset ASCVD. Cannabis use has been associated with accelerated cardiovascular ageing, and cardiovascular ageing has been viewed as a surrogate for organismal ageing.6 Lifetime opioid exposure predicts …
Case 3: What's That Smell? The Significance of Infant Body Odors in the Evaluation of Metabolic Acidosis.

A 1.36-kg female infant is born to a 35-year-old gravida 5, para 3 woman via cesarean section at 32 weeks and 2 days of gestation because of placental abruption. The pregnancy was complicated by polyhydramnios requiring multiple amnioreductions; fetal anatomy was found to be normal on ultrasonography. The mother’s serologic findings are negative. The infant’s Apgar scores are 5 and 7 at 1 and 5 minutes, respectively. She is admitted to the NICU in room air. Specimens are collected for complete blood cell count and blood culture and empiric antibiotics started. Given some dysmorphisms, samples are sent for chromosomal studies. Echocardiography and head ultrasonography findings are normal for age. Enteral feeds are started on day 2 after birth and are tolerated. On day 3 after birth, the creatinine concentration is elevated with normal urine output. On day 4, she develops worsening kidney function with a blood urea nitrogen of 128 mg/dL (45.7 mmol/L) and creatinine of 1.8 mg/dL (137.25 μmol/L), hematuria, metabolic acidosis, respiratory failure requiring intubation, neutropenia, hypocalcemia, and tonic-clonic seizures. Renal ultrasonography reveals echogenicity without hydronephrosis. She is treated with sodium bicarbonate, calcium gluconate, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and levetiracetam, given nothing by mouth, and transferred for further evaluation and management by subspecialists. Physical examination reveals low-set ears, decreased muscle mass, elongated digits, small scapulas, prominent sacrum, musty odor, and generalized hypotonia. ### Laboratory Findings On admission, her serum sodium is 141 mEq/L (141 mmol/L) and chloride 81 mEq/L (81 mmol/L); she was noted to have sodium and chloride values of 130 mEq/L (130 mmol/L) and 91 mEq/L (91 mmol/L), respectively, 24 …
Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Distinguishes Glioblastoma Multiforme Infiltrative Edges in Patients

Fluorescence lifetime imaging was used during open craniotomy procedures to detect differences between healthy and tumor-infiltrated brain. Optical parameters validated against histopathological biomarkers demonstrate that brain regions with infiltrative glioblastoma multiforme are characterized by longer lifetime values relative to the adjacent healthy tissues.
BRD4 downregulation inhibits the viability of cervical cancer cells without affecting viral oncoprotein expression

Abstract Human papillomavirus (HPV) expressing cervical cancer lines are sensitized to inhibition of the Bromodomain Containing 4 (BRD4) epigenetic reader protein and this has been linked to decreased expression of the viral E6 and E7 oncoproteins from the viral promoter. Here we show that BRD4 depletion can inhibit the viability of HPV16-positive cervical carcinoma cells and HPV16 E6/E7 expressing cells through a mechanism that is independent of affecting viral oncoprotein expression.
Preparation of metal distributions within catalyst supports: III. Single component modeling of pH, ionic strength, and concentration effects

Abstract In the first two papers of this series, the effects of pH and ionic strength on the platinum metal distribution in γ-alumina pellets were studied. It was shown that both the amount of platinum adsorbed and the depth of penetration could be controlled by adjusting the pH and ionic strength of the impregnating solution. In this work a method is proposed which simplifies the wide range of physical and chemical properties of the added ingredients so that they can be incorporated into an adsorption—transport model. This analysis studies the adsorption profile resulting from the time-dependent flow of an impregnating solution into a dry, porous catalyst support. It is demonstrated that these adsorption profiles can be predicted and designed based solely on measurable properties of the impregnating solution.
Primal–Dual Methods for Nonlinear Constrained Optimization

The article describes interior- and exterior-point primal–dual methods. The interior-point methods are related to sequential unconstrained minimization techniques, while the exterior-point methods are based on nonlinear rescaling and augmented Lagrangian theory. One of the main advantages of the primal–dual methods described in the article is their asymptotic quadratic convergence under the standard second-order optimality conditions. Keywords: Augmented Lagrangian; nonlinear rescaling; exterior-point methods; interior-point methods; primal–dual methods; sequential unconstrained minimization
Spectral Imaging in Preconception/Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis of Aneuploidy: Multicolor, Multichromosome Screening of Single Cells

Purpose:Our purpose was to evaluate the utility of spectral imaging for multicolor, multichromosome enumeration in human interphase cell nuclei.
Towards predicate answer set programming via coinductive logic programming

Answer Set Programming (ASP) is a powerful paradigm based on logic programming for non-monotonic reasoning. Current ASP implementations are restricted to “grounded range-restricted function-free normal programs” and use an evaluation strategy that is “bottom-up” (i.e., not goal-driven). Recent introduction of coinductive Logic Programming (co-LP) has allowed the development of top-down goal evaluation strategies for ASP. In this paper we present this novel goal-directed, top-down approach to executing predicate answer set programs with co-LP. Our method eliminates the need for grounding, allows functions, and effectively handles a large class of predicate answer set programs including possibly infinite ones.
Representative Payee Programs for the Elderly

As the need for financial management services for the elderly to prevent homelessness and premature institutionalization has increased, the Social Security Administration has recently begun to encourage agencies to serve as representative payees. This paper will focus on the administrative, clinical and ethical issues for agen- cies, when they assume the role of representative payees for older clients. Although this type of program is less restrictive than public guardianship programs for the elderly. there are concerns that cli- ents' rights of autonomy and self-determination may be threatened when they enter a Representative Payee Program. Possible ethical dilemmas which may arise when client and worker's choices differ are illustrated through case vignettes. Finally, administrative prob- lems of increased operating costs and legal liability which can occur in developing a Representative Payee Program are addressed. As yet no empirical evidence as to the effectiveness andlor problems associated with suc...
Spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid leak following a pilates class: a case report

A spinal cerebrospinal fluid leak is the most common cause of spontaneous intracranial hypotension which is an uncommon but increasingly recognized cause of headache. This article describes the first reported case of pilates being associated with a spontaneous spinal cerebrospinal fluid leak whilst also highlighting the key information about spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid leaks that will be useful to the general clinician. We present the case of a 42-year-old Caucasian woman who developed a low-pressure headache following a pilates class. A computed tomography scan of her head demonstrated bilateral chronic subdural hematomas and cerebellar descent. Magnetic resonance imaging of her spine revealed the presence of extensive extradural cerebrospinal fluid collections. She responded to conservative management and repeat neuroimaging after symptom resolution revealed no abnormalities. Awareness and early recognition of spontaneous intracranial hypotension is important to prevent unnecessary investigations and delay in treatment. Pilates may be a risk factor for the development of a spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid leak.
Comparison of human jejunal and ileal fat absorption by electron microscopy

Morphologic and physiologic experiments in rodents have demonstrated differences between jejunal and ileal fat absorption. Compared with the rat jejunum, absorbed lipid particles within rat ileal absorptive cells are larger and exit at a slower rate. To evaluate the relevance of these observations to humans, we studied jejunal and ileal ultrastructure in 3 volunteers, each of whom had an intact small intestine and an ileostomy postcolectomy for ulcerative colitis. Proximal jejunal biopsy specimens were obtained via a hydraulic tube after an overnight fast and again after a 20-min intrajejunal lipid infusion. On a separate day, terminal ileal biopsy specimens were taken via the stoma with a small steerable suction biopsy tube after an overnight fast and again after a 20-min intraileal infusion of the same lipid mixture. One volunteer underwent biopsy after a 60-min ileal infusion of a digested meal of higher lipid content. Electron microscopy of fasting human jejunal absorptive cells revealed obvious smooth endoplasmic reticulum in the extreme apical region beneath the terminal web; very low density lipoprotein particles were observed within smooth endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi cisternae. In contrast, fasting human ileal absorptive cells contained less apical smooth endoplasmic reticulum and fewer or no very low density lipoprotein particles. After the 20-min infusion of lower-lipid content, human jejunal and ileal absorptive cells were indistinguishable because they contained fat particles of the same size and number within smooth endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi cisternae, and extracellular spaces. After the 60-min ileal infusion of higher-lipid content, human ileal absorptive cells appeared to be the same as those of the human jejunum after similar lipid infusions. Our observations of the ultrastructural similarity in human jejunal and ileal absorptive cells after lipid infusions contrasts with those in rodents and may reflect species-specific differences in mechanisms of fat absorption.
Abstract P6-10-19: Bone mineral density(BMD) monitoring in postmenopausal women with early stage estrogen and/or progesterone receptor positive breast cancer on aromastase inhibitor(AI) therapy at University of Toledo medical center. A quality improvement project

Background More than 70% of breast cancer patients develop endocrine-responsive disease with estrogen receptor (ER)-positive or progesterone receptor-positive tumors or both [1] and require endocrine treatment with either estrogen blockage or ablation. The aromatase inhibitors are highly effective well-tolerated treatment for postmenopausal endocrine-responsive breast cancer. However, their use is associated with accelerated bone loss and an increase in fracture risk(2, 3) Method Post menopausal patients with early stage breast cancer( stage I and stage II) which was ER and/or PR positive and who were on AI therapy were included. Total patients 243.Stage I (101) and stage II (142).Agents used were Anastrazole, letrozole, exemestane .BMD (bone mineral density monitoring)was done by DEXA(Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry ) scan, and compared with national guidelines. Results 243 patients were included. At 0 years(at start of AI therapy) 150(62%) did not get a DEXA scan,40(16.4%) had normal DEXA scan, 48(19.8% )had osteopenia and 5( 2%) had osteoporosis. At 2 years from AI therapy 126(51.8%) did not get a DEXA scan, 35(14.4%) had normal DEXA scan, 73(30%) had osteopenia and 9(3.7%) had osteoporosis. At 5 years from AI therapy 180(74%) did not get a DEXA scan,21(8.6%) had normal DEXA scan, 35(14.4%) had osteopenia and 7(2.8%) had osteoporosis. Anastrazole and letrozole were equally associated with osteopenia/osteoporosis. Only 50% of patients with osteoporosis(10/21) received treatment for osteoporosis. Conclusions Although there is evidence of negative impact of the aromatase inhibitors on bone, our data still show a poor application of the recommendations in order to prevent osteoporosis related to the administration of these drugs. Part of the problem is the mixed literature on diagnosis and management of osteoporosis. Also medicare covers for a DEXA scan only once very two years. The national compliance for managing AI induced bone loss is very low which points out tthat this is a global problem. Our suggestion is a more active implementation of the guidelines, also by means of a greater collaboration between the oncologist and the specialist in osteoporosis, and the offer of a diagnostic and therapeutic pathway. Citation Format: Asma Taj, Sadik Khuder, Iman Mohamed. Bone mineral density(BMD) monitoring in postmenopausal women with early stage estrogen and/or progesterone receptor positive breast cancer on aromastase inhibitor(AI) therapy at University of Toledo medical center. A quality improvement project [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Seventh Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2014 Dec 9-13; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(9 Suppl):Abstract nr P6-10-19.
Lightning observations by satellite.

Lightning observation by OSO-E satellite, suggesting maximum thunderstorm incidence over North Atlantic Ocean
We have about seven minutes for questions: The discussion sessions from a specialized conference

Abstract This paper discusses the John Swales Conference Corpus (JSCC), which contains the lectures and discussion sessions from an applied linguistics conference held in 2006 at the University of Michigan. This corpus constitutes a useful resource in that it provides insights into the language of a narrowly defined academic community. Moreover, it spans the entire series of conference presentations rather than just snippets, so it licenses the investigation of inter-textual links, semiotic spanning, and related co-textual phenomena. After a brief outline of the properties of the JSCC and a review of the relevant literature, we present three exploratory case studies, with a particular focus on the discussion sections. First, some major phraseological differences between the presentations and the discussion sections are identified. The second case study, focusing on the chairs’ utterances, uncovers a high degree of regularity, especially with regard to opening remarks, and the chairs’ attempts to downplay the authoritative role that they have been assigned. The third case study rounds off our exploratory analyses of the JSCC with a closer examination of the different causes of laughter in the discussion sections, which underscore how the language of discussion sections in a specialized conference is heavily influenced by shared professional knowledge and personal relationships among the participants.
Evolution of the Pinatubo volcanic cloud over Hampton, Virginia

The eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in June 1991 produced the largest enhancement of stratospheric aerosol loading ever observed by lidar over Hampton, Virginia. Low altitude layers (less than 20 km) were the first to arrive over Hampton in early August, the result of transport associated with a tropospheric anticyclonic cell over North America. The maximum peak scattering ratio, 34 at 22.4 km, and the maximum stratospheric integrated backscatter of 0.0053 sr(exp -1), both at 694 nm, observed since the eruption were measured on February 20, 1992. After decreasing during the spring and summer of 1992, the aerosol burden increased significantly during the winter of 1992-93, evidence of a poleward winter transport from the equatorial reservoir. Over the period from February 1992 to February 1994, the stratospheric aerosol loading decreased with an average 1/e decay time of 10.1 months. The vertical distribution, intensity, and transport of Pinatubo aerosols over this site are described and compared with similar measurements after El Chichon.
Studies on the mechanism of action of salicylate II. Retardation of wound healing by aspirin

Aspirin, like cortisone, reduces the tensile strength of the healing skin wound in rats. The possible mechanism of action of these anti-inflammatory agents on wound healing has been discussed.
The Novel Kinase Peptidylglycine α-Amidating Monooxygenase Cytosolic Interactor Protein 2 Interacts with the Cytosolic Routing Determinants of the Peptide Processing Enzyme Peptidylglycine α-Amidating Monooxygenase

Abstract The cytosolic domain of the peptide-processing integral membrane protein peptidylglycine α-amidating monooxygenase (PAM; EC 1.14.17.3) contains multiple signals determining its subcellular localization. Three PAM cytosolic interactor proteins (P-CIPs) were identified using the yeast two hybrid system (Alam, M. R., Caldwel, B. D., Johnson, R. C., Darlington, D. N., Mains, R. E., and Eipper, B. A. (1996) J. Biol. Chem. 271, 28636–28640); the partial amino acid sequence of P-CIP2 suggested that it was a protein kinase. In situhybridization and immunocytochemistry show that P-CIP2 is expressed widely throughout the brain; PAM and P-CIP2 are expressed in the same neurons. Based on subcellular fractionation, the 47-kDa P-CIP2 protein is mostly cytosolic. P-CIP2 is a highly selective kinase, phosphorylating the cytosolic domain of PAM, but not the corresponding region of furin or carboxypeptidase D. Although P-CIP2 interacts with stathmin, it does not phosphorylate stathmin. Site-directed mutagenesis, phosphoamino acid analysis, and use of synthetic peptides demonstrate that PAM-Ser949 is the major site phosphorylated by P-CIP2. Based on both in vitro binding experiments and co-immunoprecipitation from cell extracts,P-CIP2 interacts with PAM proteins containing the wild type cytosolic domain, but not with mutant forms of PAM whose trafficking is disrupted. P-CIP2, through its highly selective phosphorylation of a key site in the cytosolic domain of PAM, appears to play a critical role in the trafficking of this protein.
Alterations of the manifestations of hybrid breakdown in Lycopersicon esculentum L. pennellii F2 populations containing L. esculentum versus L. pennellii cytoplasm

Reproductive abnormalities reduced the percent stainable pollen, and fruit and seed set in interspecific F2 populations derived from crosses of Lycopersicon esculentum and L. pennellii but were not observed in parental lines and interspecific F1 populations. The degree to which these reproductive abnormalities were expressed in the interspecific F2 populations was affected by cytoplasm. Reproduction was impeded in interspecific F2 populations containing L. esculentum cytoplasm (F 2 Le ) by reduction in pollen production, the lack of fruit set and a high proportion of parthenocarpic fruit among plants capable of fruit set. The F2 populations containing L. pennellii cytoplasm (F 2 Lp4 ) showed a reduced frequency of reproductive abnormalities at all stages of reproductive development, resulting in higher values for percent stainable pollen, fruit and seed set and higher proportions of the F 2 Lp4 populations being capable of setting fruit or seed than F 2 Le populations. The major barrier remaining in F 2 Lp4 populations was reduced fruit set compared to parental lines. The barrier to fruit and seed set observed in the F 2 Le populations, and to a lesser extent in the F 2 Lp4 populations, occurs around the time of fertilization or early embryonic development. The effect of L. pennellii cytoplasm on barriers in the F 2 Lp4 populations is proposed to be due to an interaction between cytoplasmic and nuclear genes during fertilization of the F1 plants to produce F2 populations and may also affect subsequent generations.
Theory of waves incoherently scattered

Electromagnetic waves impinging upon a plasma at frequencies larger than the plasma frequency, suffer weak scattering. The scattering arises from the existence of electron density fluctuations. The received signal corresponds to a particular spatial Fourier component of the fluctuations, the wave vector of which is a function of the wavelength of the radiowave. Wavelengths short with respect to the Debye length of the medium relate to fluctuations due to non-interacting Maxwellian electrons, while larger wavelengths relate to fluctuations due to collective Coulomb interactions. In the latter case, the scattered signal exhibits a spectral distribution which is characteristic of the main properties of the electron and ion gases and, therefore, provides a powerful diagnosis of the state of the ionosphere.
Trans-medieval geographic anxieties

This commentary is a response to Keith Lilley’s (2011) article from the perspective of a former student of geography, now historian of medieval Islamic history and Islamic cartography. It takes into consideration the impact of spatial and visual turns and trans-disciplinary concerns. It suggests that air-tight disciplinary categories no longer exist, and reinforces Lilley’s concern that geographers should take more of an interest in their medieval past.
Does small and mature have to mean dull? Defying the ho‐hum at SMEs

Even though most SMEs operate in established industries, managers of these firms are not impervious to the fast‐moving changes in today’s business world. The author undertook a survey of SMEs to learn more about how they approached innovation. He found that, for innovation to pay off and become real, it must be nurtured and developed through top management commitment, the attention of smart and dedicated people, and tight integration between innovators and the firm’s strategic management.
Chondrodystrophia calcificans congenita

Summary 1. A case is reported in which there is bone maldevelopment which consists of stippling at many epiphyseal centers. 2. Extensive calcification was noted in both knee joints. 3. Periosteal elevation along the femur was a new finding. 4. An associated abnormality was the congenital heart lesion (also found in two other patients with similar conditions). 5. No evidence of thyroid deficiency was noted, although other observers are of the opinion that hypothyroidism is an associated condition. 6. An extremely high phosphatase determination was discovered. 7. Placing this case in the category of chondrodystrophies seems most logical. 8. Prognosis for correction of the bone abnormality seems generally good. 9. No special treatment seems necessary unless thyroid be given empirically.
Continuous Wave Lasing Characteristics of AlGaInP Visible Vertical-Cavity Laser Diodes

The intrinsic properties of vertical- cavity surface emitting lasers (VCSELs), e.g. surface normal emission, circular output beam, low threshold, and 2-dimensional array capability, make them appealing sources for visible optoelectronic applications such as printing, high- density optical storage, low cost plastic fiber-based local area networks, and displays. Recently, pulsed1 and continuous-wave2 (cw) operation at room temperature has been demonstrated in visible (650-670 nm) AlGalnP/AlGaAs air-post VCSEL diodes. Here we report room temperature cw lasing characteristics of gain-guided ion implanted AlGalnP/AlGaAs visible VCSEL diodes, including ultralow threshold current and a single predetermined polarization state for all transverse optical modes.
Work, family, and life interfaces: a selective book review

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to review a group of books focusing on work‐family research and applications.Design/methodology/approach – The paper takes the form of a summary and critique of recently published books centering on work‐family issues.Findings – Significantly expanded views of work‐family issues are represented in the multicultural, multidisciplinary perspectives presented in a series of books.Originality/value – By considering a number of different publications, the researcher, instructor, or practitioner can learn about advances in the work‐family domain.
Measurement of the M 2 beam propagation factor using a focus-tunable liquid lens

We demonstrate motion-free beam quality M2 measurements of stigmatic, simple astigmatic, and general astigmatic (twisted) beams using only a focus-tunable liquid lens and a CCD camera. We extend the variable-focus technique to the characterization of general astigmatic beams by measuring the 10 second-order moments of the power density distribution for the twisted beam produced by passage through multimode optical fiber. Our method measures the same M2 values as the traditional variable-distance method for a wide range of laser beam sources, including nearly TEM00 (M2≈1) and general astigmatic multimode beams (M2≈8). The method is simple and compact, with no moving parts or complex apparatus and measurement precision comparable to the standard variable-distance method.
Abstract 3755: Phosphorylated STAT3 in polymorphonucleur cells (PMNs) as a potential surrogate marker to evaluate the efficiency of sorafenib therapy

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC Sorafenib tosylate (BAY43-9006) is an oral multi-kinase inhibitor which targets c-Raf and b-Raf, and thus interrupts this critical oncogenic pathway. Sorafenib has been successfully applied in the clinic to treat patients with certain types of renal cell carcinoma and hepatocellular carcinoma. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) plays an important role in the pathogenesis and progression of cancer. Furthermore, the inhibition of STAT3 by sorafenib has been previously described. In order to evaluate STAT3 within polymorphonucleur cells (PMNs) as a potential surrogate marker of phosphorylated STAT3 (p-STAT3) in tumor tissue, we proposed a preclinical animal model to examine the relationship of p-STAT3 as in tumors and PMNs during treatment with sorafenib. Both normal balb/c mice (female and male, 10 weeks old) and immunodeficient NOD/SCID/IL2Rgamma null (NSG) mice (female at 10 weeks old) were used in the animal studies. Human ovarian cancer cells OV-90 were inoculated subcutaneously into the dorsal area of NSG mice to create a xenograft model. Sorafenib was given at 50 or 100 mg/kg in balb/c mice and 60 mg/kg in NSG mice via oral gavage for three doses before tissue sampling. Two hours after the last drug treatment, the mice were euthanized and the blood and tumor tissues were harvested for pSTAT3 level assays. Phosphorylated STAT3 expression levels were analyzed by flow cytometry and western blot. Suppression of pSTAT3 levels in PMNs from balb/c mice was observed in 1/3 of mice at 50 mg/kg and 2/3 of mice at 100 mg/kg by both western blot and flow cytometry, however the difference between the vehicle control and sorafenib group was not significant. Suppression of pSTAT3 levels in OV-90 tumor tissue from sorafenib-treated NSG mice was significant by western blot analysis. However the suppression of pSTAT3 on the PMNs from the corresponding NSG mice was minor by flow cytometry analysis. In conclusion, in this murine model, pSTAT3 in PMNs was not a consistent surrogate marker for the evaluation of sorafenib activity. Based on the emerging data linking escalating doses of sorafenib to STAT3 inhibition in cancer cells, and the tumor responses seen with increasing doses, evaluation of surrogate biomarkers to predict clinical efficacy will be useful. Supported by NCI K12 CA 01727 and the Phase One Foundation. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3755.