cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Elevated plasma norepinephrine inhibits insulin secretion, but adrenergic blockade reveals enhanced β-cell responsiveness in an ovine model of placental insufficiency at 0.7 of gestation

In pregnancies complicated by placental insufficiency (PI), fetal hypoglycemia and hypoxemia progressively worsen during the third trimester, which increases circulating norepinephrine (NE). Pharmacological adrenergic blockade (ADR-block) at 0.9 gestation revealed that NE inhibits insulin secretion and enhanced β-cell responsiveness in fetuses with PI-induced intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). NE concentrations in PI fetuses at 0.7 gestation were threefold greater compared with age-matched controls, but the levels were similar to near-term controls. Therefore, our objective was to determine whether elevations in plasma NE concentrations inhibit insulin secretion and produce compensatory β-cell responsiveness in PI fetuses at 0.7 gestation. Fetal insulin was measured under basal, glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) and glucose-potentiated arginine-stimulated insulin secretion (GPAIS) conditions in the absence and presence of an ADR-block. Placental weights were 38% lower (P < 0.05) in PI fetus than in controls, but fetal weights were not different. PI fetuses had lower (P < 0.05) basal blood oxygen content, plasma glucose, insulin-like growth factor-1 and insulin concentrations and greater plasma NE concentrations (891 ± 211 v. 292 ± 65 pg/ml; P < 0.05) than controls. GSIS was lower in PI fetuses than in controls (0.34 ± 0.03 v. 1.08 ± 0.06 ng/ml; P < 0.05). ADR-block increased GSIS in PI fetuses (1.19 ± 0.11 ng/ml; P < 0.05) but decreased GSIS in controls (0.86 ± 0.02 ng/ml; P < 0.05). Similarly, GPAIS was 44% lower (P < 0.05) in PI fetuses than in controls, and ADR-block increased (P < 0.05) GPAIS in PI fetuses but not in controls. Insulin content per islet was not different between treatments. We conclude that elevations in fetal plasma NE suppress insulin concentrations, and that compensatory β-cell stimulus-secretion responsiveness is present before IUGR.
Self-assembly of a 2-D barium/thiodiacetate coordination polymer in aqueous solution

A polymeric thiodiacetate (tda) complex of Ba2+, {Ba[S(CH2COO)2(H2O)3] · 2H2O} n , has been synthesized from aqueous solution in ∼50% yield. The complex crystallizes in the monoclinic P21 /c space group with Z = 4 and the unit cell dimensions a = 13.069 A, b = 7.350 A, and c = 12.932 A. Ba2+ is ten-coordinate, ligated to four tda (O and S) and three aqua ligands. Four distinct binding modes of tda to barium are observed. Each Ba2+ center is coordinated via a tda ligand to four equivalent adjacent Ba2+ centers, creating an extended 2-D polymeric layered structure, with alternate interstitial layers of water. The complex has also been characterized by elemental analysis, FT-IR spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopic data suggest that the polymeric structure found in the solid state is not present in aqueous solution itself.
Recruiter Selection Model and Implementation Within the United States Army

On April 10, 2006, Major General Bostick, the Commanding General of the United States Army Recruiting Command (USAREC), in conjunction with the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, approved a new method of selecting individuals from within the Army for recruiting duty. Implementation currently waits for similar and current research concerning drill sergeants. Previously, the Army assigned successful noncommissioned officers (NCOs), regardless of inherent sales and marketing skills, into the recruiting force. The Army learned skills that make a successful combat leader do not always translate well into recruiting duty. This research began in 2001, after recruiting shortages, when the Army began researching recruiter selection methods. The result is an application that combines statistical learning with industrial and organizational (IO) psychology. The resulting selection model determines the better NCOs for service as detailed recruiters in the United States Army Recruiting Command, a 6000 plus sales force located worldwide. The application enhances IO psychology by providing a statistical prediction of job performance derived from psychological inventories and biographical data. The application uses a combination of statistical learning, variable selection methods, and IO psychology to determine the better prediction function approximation with variables obtained from the noncommissioned officer leadership skills inventory (NLSI) and biographical data. The application also creates a methodology for iteratively developing a statistical learning model. We learned that random forest models outperformed support vector regressions and stepwise regression for these data. A greedy algorithm enhanced model generalization by selecting a good subset of prediction variables. The model represents a multimodal relationship primarily between recruiter age, NLSI score, and, to a lesser degree, 34 other variables. The resulting model runs in R statistical language and is controlled within an Excel worksheet environment by using Visual Basic Application language and RExcel. The end product enables general utilization of a statistically elegant model, normally reserved for advanced researchers, engineers, statisticians, and economists.
Improving OCR accuracy for classical critical editions

This paper describes a work-flow designed to populate a digital library of ancient Greek critical editions with highly accurate OCR scanned text. While the most recently available OCR engines are now able after suitable training to deal with the polytonic Greek fonts used in 19th and 20th century editions, further improvements can also be achieved with postprocessing. In particular, the progressive multiple alignment method applied to different OCR outputs based on the same images is discussed in this paper.
Genetically Encoded pH Sensor for Tracking Surface Proteins through Endocytosis

Traffic cam: a tandem dye prepared from a FRET acceptor and a fluorogenic donor functions as a cell surface ratiometric pH indicator, which upon internalization serves to follow protein trafficking during endocytosis. This sensor was used to analyze agonist-dependent internalization of β(2)-adrenergic receptors. It was also used as a surrogate antigen to reveal direct surface-to-endosome antigen transfer between dendritic cells (not shown).
Long-Term Follow-Up of Dose-Adapted and Reduced-Field Radiotherapy With or Without Chemotherapy for Central Nervous System Germinoma

Purpose To update our institutional experience with neoadjuvant chemotherapy and minimized radiotherapy vs. radiation monotherapy for intracranial germinoma. Methods and Materials We retrospectively reviewed records of 59 patients with diagnosis of primary intracranial germinoma between 1977 and 2007. Treatment was irradiation alone or neoadjuvant platinum-based chemotherapy and local irradiation (initial tumor plus margin) for patients with localized complete response and reduced-dose craniospinal irradiation for others. Results For the chemoradiotherapy group ( n = 28), median follow-up was 7 years. No patient died. The freedom from progression (FFP) rate was 88% at 5 years and 80% at 10 years. In 4 patients, disease recurred 1.1 to 6.8 years after diagnosis. All were young male patients who received 30.6 Gy to local fields after complete response to chemotherapy. The FFP rate was 88% for local irradiation vs. 100% for more extensive fields ( p = .06). For the radiotherapy-alone group ( n = 31), median follow-up was 15 years. Overall and disease-free survival rates were 93% and 93% at 5 years and 90% and 87% at 15 years. In 5 patients, disease recurred 1.1 to 4.9 years after diagnosis. Most patients in this group were young men 18 to 23 years of age with suprasellar primary disease treated with about 50 Gy to local fields. The FFP rate was 44% for local irradiation vs. 100% for more extensive fields ( p Conclusions The addition of neoadjuvant chemotherapy to local-field radiotherapy reduced central nervous system cancer recurrence when high-risk patients were excluded by thorough pretreatment staging. There was trend toward improved central nervous system tumor control when larger fields (whole brain, whole ventricle, or craniospinal axis) were used.
Risk Assessment in Patients with Depressed Left Ventricular Function After Myocardial Infarction Using the Myocardial Performance Index–Survival and Ventricular Enlargement (SAVE) Experience

Background Myocardial performance index (MPI) is a noninvasive, quantitative Doppler measure of global cardiac function, integrating systolic and diastolic functions. The prognostic significance of MPI is less clear for cardiovascular (CV) events after myocardial infarction (MI) among individuals at high risk with depressed left ventricular (LV) systolic function. Methods We analyzed echocardiograms from 512 patients with depressed LV function after MI enrolled in the Survival and Ventricular Enlargement (SAVE) echocardiographic substudy. Baseline MPI measures were obtainable in 226 patients. The cohort was separated by median MPI (0.50). MPI was related to baseline clinical and echocardiographic characteristics, ventricular remodeling, and subsequent CV events, including recurrent MI, heart failure, CV death, and a composite of all CV end points. Results An MPI of 0.5 or more was associated with larger infarct size and reduced LV systolic function at baseline; other baseline characteristics between the groups were similar. A total of 64 (28.3%) patients experienced CV events. Baseline MPI did not influence ventricular remodeling and did not modify the relationship between ventricular dilatation and CV events. After covariate adjustment, an MPI of 0.50 or higher remained an independent predictor for adverse CV events (hazard ratio [HR], 2.00, 95% confidence interval 1.17-3.43). Conclusions An MPI of 0.50 or greater is an independent predictor for CV events after MI in patients with known LV dysfunction.
Nova autoregulation reveals dual functions in neuronal splicing

The Nova family of neuron-specific RNA-binding proteins were originally identified as targets in an autoimmune neurologic disease characterized by failure of motor inhibition. Nova-1 regulates alternative splicing of pre-mRNAs encoding the inhibitory neurotransmitter receptor subunits GABAARγ2 and GlyRα2 by directly binding intronic elements, resulting in enhancement of exon inclusion. Here we identify exon E4 in the Nova-1 pre-mRNA itself, encoding a phosphorylated protein domain, as an additional target of Nova-dependent splicing regulation in the mouse spinal cord. Nova binding to E4 is necessary and sufficient for Nova-dependent exon exclusion. E4 harbors five repeats of the known Nova-binding tetranucleotide YCAY and mutation of these elements destroys Nova-dependent regulation. Furthermore, swapping of the sites from Nova-1 and GABAARγ2 indicates that the ability of Nova to enhance or repress alternative exon inclusion is dependent on the position of the Nova-binding element within the pre-mRNA. These studies demonstrate that in addition to its previously described role as a splicing activator, Nova autoregulates its own expression by acting as a splicing repressor.
Observations of total peroxy nitrates and aldehydes: measurement interpretation and inference of OH radical concentrations

We describe measurements of total peroxy nitrates (6PNs), NO2, O3 and several aldehydes at Granite Bay, Cal- ifornia, during the Chemistry and Transport of the Sacra- mento Urban Plume-2001 (CATSUP 2001) campaign, from 19 July-16 September 2001. We observed a strong photo- chemically driven variation of 6PNs during the day with the median of 1.2 ppb at noon. Acetaldehyde, pentanal, hexanal and methacrolein had median abundances in the daytime of 1.2 ppb, 0.093 ppb, 0.14 ppb, and 0.27 ppb, respectively. We compare steady state and time dependent calculations of the dependence of 6PNs on aldehydes, OH, NO and NO2 show- ing that the steady state calculations are accurate to ±30% between 10:00 and 18:00 h. We use the steady state calcula- tion to investigate the composition of 6PNs and the concen- tration of OH at Granite Bay. We find that PN molecules that have never been observed before make up an unreasonably large fraction of the 6PNs unless we assume that there ex- ists a PAN source that is much larger than the acetaldehyde source. We calculate that OH at the site varied between 2 and 7◊10 6 molecule cm 3 at noon during the 8 weeks of the experiment.
A matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor promotes granuloma formation during the early phase of Mycobacterium tuberculosis pulmonary infection.

Summary Objective : The host response to pulmonary Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection results in granuloma formation in an effort to limit infection, but the host immune cells also provide an environment in which Mtb persists. Granuloma formation requires immune cell infiltration and concurrent extensive remodeling of pulmonary tissue which we hypothesize to be the result of increased matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) activity. Design : C57BL/6 mice infected with virulent Mtb (H37Rv) via intratracheal inoculation were treated with a synthetic inhibitor of MMP activity (BB-94). Mice were assessed for colony forming units, granuloma morphology, leukocyte recruitment and cytokine levels over 90 days of infection. Results : BB-94 treated mice had significantly decreased numbers of pulmonary and blood-borne Mtb early during disease, increased collagen deposition within early granulomas and significantly decreased pulmonary leukocyte recruitment when compared to vehicle-treated, Mtb-infected mice. Cytokine expression did not differ significantly between groups. Conclusion : Events of early granuloma formation can be modified by inhibiting MMP activity, by decreasing leukocyte recruitment, a major source of MMPs during infection, enhancing the establishment of granulomas and decreasing blood-borne dissemination of Mtb.
Integration of tobacco cessation services into multidisciplinary lung cancer care: rationale, state of the art, and future directions

Tobacco use is the largest risk factor for lung cancer and many lung cancer patients still smoke at the time of diagnosis. Although clinical practice guidelines recommend that all patients receive evidence-based tobacco treatment, implementation of these services in oncology practices is inconsistent and inadequate. Multidisciplinary lung cancer treatment programs offer an ideal environment to optimally deliver effective smoking cessation services. This article reviews best practice recommendations and current status of tobacco treatment for oncology patients, and provides recommendations to optimize delivery of tobacco treatment in multidisciplinary practice.
Abstract 241: Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cynomolgus Monkey and Rabbit High-Density Lipoprotein Following Treatment With Recombinant Lecithin Cholesterol Acyltransferase

Introduction: Lecithin cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) modulates HDL formation and increases HDL-C. Anti-inflammatory properties of HDL may be atheroprotective. We evaluated HDL from rabbits and cynomolgus monkeys treated with recombinant LCAT (rLCAT) to determine its anti-inflammatory properties. Methods: HDL from serum was isolated by ultracentrifugation. HUVECs were treated with HDL, stimulated with TNFα, and mRNA expression of VCAM-1, E-Selectin, and ICAM-1 was measured. Results: TNFα induced adhesion molecule expression in HUVECs treated with HDL (0.3 mg/mL) from rLCAT treated rabbits was reduced (E-Selectin) or similar (VCAM-1, ICAM-1) compared to pre-dose HDL. Using HDL (0.3 mg/mL) from rLCAT treated cynomolgus monkeys reduced expression of E-Selectin, VCAM-1, and ICAM-1 compared to control (pre-dose or vehicle) HDL in a rLCAT dose-dependent manner. In HUVECs treated with cynomolgus monkey HDL at concentrations normalized to serum HDL-C, adhesion molecule expression was reduced but showed a different profile. HDL after treatment with 1 or 5 mpk rLCAT reduced expression more than HDL from controls, while HDL after treatment with 20 or 150 mpk rLCAT blocked expression less than controls. Conclusions: HDL from rabbits and cynomolgus monkeys after rLCAT treatment was equally or more anti-inflammatory compared to control HDL when tested at a fixed concentration, a measure of HDL quality. To account for treatment changes to both HDL quality and quantity, HDL was tested relative to serum HDL-C. In this case, HDL from the 1 mpk group proved most efficacious in reducing TNFα stimulated adhesion molecule expression compared to vehicle HDL or HDL from higher doses. ![][1] [1]: /embed/graphic-1.gif
THE “WRETCHED ITALIAN QUACK”: BRADDON’S CRITIQUE OF MEDICINE IN “GOOD LADY DUCAYNE”

A critical darling, Bram Stoker’s 1897 novel Dracula features several infamous blood transfusions. In that novel, Lucy Westenra receives blood transfusions from four different men, making her, according to Dr. Van Helsing, a polyandrist (158). In Stoker's novel, transfusion is not about medical verisimilitude so much as about romance or eroticism. Perhaps because of Dracula's status, Mary Elizabeth Braddon's 1896 story “Good Lady Ducayne” is often read as a vampire tale because it, too, includes blood transfusions. However, Braddon's engagement with contemporary medicine is very different than Stoker’s, since, unlike Dracula, Braddon's story engages with the experience of day-to-day medical treatment and is strongly invested in medical verisimilitude. Lauren M. E. Goodlad identifies the story's engagement with the medical profession largely through the character of Dr. Stafford, whom she views as a representative of the male-dominated, professional establishment. In Goodlad's reading, Lady Ducayne herself is a figure in both vampire literature and New Woman discourse as an “odd” woman, who becomes an “anti patriarchal figure of women's uncanny power to signify” (213). Goodlad's perceptive reading shows how the female vampire undermines conventional medicine, as embodied by Dr. Stafford. Yet, there is another physician in the story: Dr. Parravicini. If we take Dr. Parravicini as our starting point, we see that Braddon's critique of the medical profession is more wide-ranging and more radical than it previously appeared. What is Dr. Parravicini doing in this story? What is his relationship to Stafford and to the medical establishment? What does Braddon's realistic depiction of anesthesia and transfusion indicate about the medical profession and about the medicalization of modern culture?
Trends in Noncardiac Chest Pain

The prognosis for patients with noncardiac chest pain is excellent, yet functional outcome is generally poor because many patients continue to believe their pain has a cardiac source.
Modeling of Spiropyran: Calculation Of Absorption Spectra

Semiempirical computational chemistry techniques were used to investigate the absorption spectra of 1′-isopropyl-3′,3′-dimethyl-indoline-spiro-6-nitro-8-methoxy-benzopyran. The spectra of both the closed (spiropyran) and open (merocyanine) forms were calculated using the INDO/CI method. Spectroscopic calculations showed the effects, both electronic and steric, that substituents such as hydrogen, methoxy and thiophene have on the absorption spectrum. Knowledge of the absorption spectra as a function of the choice and placement of substituents and molecular geometry will potentially allow optical properties to be optimized for specific applications.
Anal Canal Cancer

PURPOSE: This study was designed to obtain an updated population-based perspective on anal canal cancer incidence rates, demographics, and outcomes using a nationwide database. Eight-five percent of all carcinomas of the anus are anal canal cancers, and previous studies suggest that incidence rates may be rising. Although the most successful treatment for anal canal cancer has been chemoradiation, little information at the population-level exists regarding demographics, treatment, and survival. METHODS: All patients diagnosed with anal canal cancer from 1973 to 1998 in the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results cancer registry were analyzed. Data regarding demographics, cancer characteristics, treatment, and survival were assessed. Univariate and multivariate survival analyses were performed. RESULTS: A total of 4,841 patients were studied (mean age was 61 years; 62 percent female). Female patients were significantly older than male patients (65 vs. 58 years; P < 0.0001). There was a yearly increase in incidence of anal canal cancers (from 1973–1998). Disease prevalence by stage was localized (53 percent), regional (38 percent), and distant (9 percent). Racial/stage differences were seen, because black patients had less localized disease than white patients (46 vs. 53 percent; P < 0.01). Overall five-year survival for the entire cohort was 53 percent, and cancer-specific survival was 84 percent. Survival improved per decade (based on year of diagnosis). Significant survival differences in race were noted, but were less when the receipt of treatment was considered. CONCLUSION: Although most anal canal cancer reviews are single institutional series, this study was performed with population-based data. The incidence of anal canal cancer is increasing, and overall survival rates are improving. Important disparities in care were identified, which need to be addressed.
Mechanical Properties of Spinel-Silicon Carbide Whisker Composites

Spinel composite ceramics reinforced with 0-40vol% β-silicon carbide whiskers were prepared by hot-pressing at 1800°C under 30MPa for 30min. The mechanical properties (bending strength, hardness, modulus of elasticity, fracture toughness) of the hot-pressed bodies were measured. Fully dense composites were obtained in the whisker content up to 30vol%. The composite mixed with 30vol% whiskers showed the highest room temperature bending strength (about 440MPa), which was about two times as large as that of monolithic spinel. These composites had more excellent high temperature strengths than monolithic spinel. The hardness and modulus of elasticity of dense sintered bodies increased with an increase in whisker content. The fracture toughness increased monotonously with increasing whisker content and showed maximum values (3.5-4.0 MPa⋅m1/2) at 40vol%, which were 2.1-2.7 times as large as those of monolithic spinel due to crack deflection and pull-out of whiskers.
Bilateral involvement of renal hamartoma in 2 cases without tuberous sclerosis.

AbstractRenal hamartoma (angiomyolipoma) rarely occurs bilaterally without tuberous sclerosis. We herein report on 2 such cases, with emphasis on the diagnostic uncertainties and management of this condition.
Accuracy of the Audio Computer Assisted Self Interview version of the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ACASI ASSIST) for identifying unhealthy substance use and substance use disorders in primary care patients

Abstract Background An Audio Computer-assisted Self Interview (ACASI) version of the Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) could reduce barriers to substance use screening and assessment in primary care settings. This study evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of an ACASI ASSIST for identification of unhealthy substance use and substance use disorders (SUD). Methods 399 adult patients were consecutively recruited from an urban safety-net primary care clinic. ACASI ASSIST scores for tobacco, alcohol, marijuana, and cocaine were compared against reference standard measures to assess the instrument’s diagnostic accuracy for identifying unhealthy use and SUD, first using empirically-derived optimal cutoffs, and second using the currently recommended ASSIST cutoffs. Results For identifying any unhealthy use, at the empirically-derived cutoffs the ACASI ASSIST had 93.6% sensitivity and 85.8% specificity (AUC = 0.90) for tobacco, 85.9% sensitivity and 60.3% specificity (AUC = 0.73), for alcohol in men, 100% sensitivity and 62.4% specificity (AUC = 0.81) for alcohol in women, 94.6% sensitivity and 81.6% specificity (AUC = 0.88) for marijuana, and 86.1% sensitivity, 84.0% specificity (AUC = 0.85) for cocaine. For SUD, sensitivity ranged from 79% (for alcohol in males), to 100% (for tobacco), and specificity was 83% or higher (AUCs ranged 0.83–0.91). For substances other than tobacco, empirically-derived cutoff scores were lower than the standard cutoffs, and resulted in higher sensitivity and lower specificity for identifying unhealthy substance use. Conclusions The ACASI ASSIST is a valid measure of unhealthy use and SUD for substances that are commonly used by primary care patients, and could facilitate effective and efficient screening for substance use in medical settings.
The Sui Generis Privacy Agency: How the United States Institutionalized Privacy Oversight after 9-11

Privacy scholars have long noted that the United States, unlike many other countries, lacks an independent office for privacy protection. However, as part of the response to 9-11, the US Congress created several new privacy entities. These "sui generis" privacy offices were established to counterbalance the surveillance authority that resulted from the creation of the Department of Homeland Security and the consolidation of the intelligence agencies in the federal government, as well as to advise the President on emerging privacy issues. This article looks at the Chief Privacy Officer of the Department of Homeland Security, the President's Civil Liberties and Privacy Oversight Board, and the Civil Liberties Protection Officer of the Office of the National Intelligence Director. The article explores the circumstances under which the agencies were established and their legislative mandates. It reviews their activities to date and concludes that, measured primarily against their statutory responsibilities, only the DHS Chief Privacy Officer has had any meaningful impact on the privacy practices of the federal government. The article makes specific recommendations for how each office might be more effective. In almost all instances, more transparency, regular reporting, frequent public consultation, and great independence are necessary. The article concludes that "in the absence of effective oversight within federal agencies for the new powers created after September 11", the effective checks and balances are likely to be the courts and the Congress.
Inconsistencies across repeated eyewitness interviews: supportive negative feedback can make witnesses change their memory reports

ABSTRACTPast work shows that direct negative feedback and suggestive questioning can lead eyewitnesses to change their memory reports. Applying Gudjonsson’s [2003. The psychology of interrogations and confessions: A handbook. West Sussex: Wiley] model of interrogative suggestibility to interviews with witnesses, the present two experiments examined how indirect negative feedback delivered in a supportive manner from an interviewer can make witnesses change what they report they remember experiencing. After viewing a video of a crime, participants were interviewed twice, with either supportive negative feedback (i.e. with the interviewer sympathetically suggesting why many people’s memory may be inaccurate) or neutral feedback between the two rounds of questions. Results showed that people given supportive negative feedback changed significantly more of their responses than those given neutral feedback. Lower confidence ratings were associated with greater response change, but overall, despite having chang...
Defining Severity for Rare Factor Deficiencies. Insights from the North American Rare Bleeding Disorder Registry(NARBDR).

Defining Severity for Rare Factor deficiencies: Insights from the North American Rare Bleeding Disorder Registry (NARBDR) The NARBDR was published in 2004 compiling data from Hemophilia Treatment Centers across North America using a questionnaire format. The goals of this registry were to establish prevalence, bleeding phenotype, treatment strategies along with disease and treatment related complications of inherited deficiencies of factors(F) FII,VII,X, V, XIII, and fibrinogen disorders. Given the paucity of genotyping data (5.4%), these deficiencies were characterized as homo/heterozygous based on factor activity levels using a previously published hemostatic level cut –off of 0.2u/ml. However, a UK group has published disorder-specific cut off levels of Table 1
A Little Effort Can Withstand the Hardship: Fielding an Internet-Based Intervention to Prevent Depression among Urban Racial/Ethnic Minority Adolescents in a Primary Care Setting.

Abstract Background This study explored the implementation of Chicago Urban Resiliency Building (CURB), a randomized clinical trial designed as an Internet-based primary care depression prevention intervention for urban African American and Latino adolescents. Methods We utilized a mixed methods analysis to explore four aims. First, we estimated the percent of at-risk adolescents that were successfully screened. Second, we examined clinic site factors and performance. Third, primary care providers (n = 10) and clinic staff (n = 18) were surveyed to assess their knowledge and attitudes about the intervention. Fourth, clinic staff (nursing and medical assistant) interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis to gather perspectives of the implementation process. Results We found that the estimated percent of at-risk adolescents who were successfully screened in each clinic varied widely between clinics with a mean of 14.48%. Daily clinic communication was suggestive of greater successful screening. Feasibility of screening was high for both primary care providers and clinic staff. Clinic staff exit interviews indicated the presence of community barriers that inhibited successful implementation of the intervention. Conclusion This study shares the challenges and successes for depression screening and implementing Internet-based mental health interventions for urban racial/ethnic minority adolescents in primary care settings.
Sexual and Gender Minority Adolescents' Views On HIV Research Participation and Parental Permission: A Mixed-Methods Study

CONTEXT Sexual and gender minority adolescents are underrepresented in HIV research, partly because institutional review boards (IRBs) are reluctant to waive parental permission requirements for these studies. Understanding teenagers’ perspectives on parental permission and the risks and benefits of participating in HIV research is critical to informing evidence-based IRB decisions. METHODS Data from 74 sexual and gender minority adolescents aged 14–17 who participated in an online focus group in 2015 were used to examine perspectives on the risks and benefits of participation in a hypothetical HIV surveillance study and the need for parental permission and adequate protections. Data were analyzed thematically; mixed methods analyses examined whether concerns about parental permission differed by whether teenagers were out to their parents. RESULTS Most adolescents, especially those who were not out to their parents, would be unwilling to participate in an HIV study if parental permission were required. Perceived benefits of participation included overcoming barriers to HIV testing and contributing to the health of sexual and gender minority youth. Few risks of participation were identified. Adolescents suggested steps that researchers could take to facilitate informed decision making about research participation and ensure minors’ safety in the absence of parental permission; these included incorporating multimedia presentations into the consent process and explaining researchers’ motivations for conducting the study. CONCLUSIONS Respondents believed that the benefits of HIV surveillance research outweighed the risks. Requiring parental permission may exclude many sexual and gender minority teenagers from taking part in HIV research, especially if they are not out.
Dedifferentiated chondrosarcoma of the larynx: Radiological, gross, microscopic and clinical features

Laryngeal chondrosarcoma is an uncommon malignancy with a predilection for the cricoid cartilage of adult male patients. Although rare, identification of aggressive chondrosarcoma variants, such as dedifferentiated chondrosarcoma (DDCS) may influence preoperative patient counseling, definitive surgical management, potential implementation of post-operative adjuvant therapy and prognosis. Herein we describe clinical and imaging features of laryngeal DDCS, the unique perspective of fresh and formalin fixed macroscopic examination, a spectrum of histopathologic findings, and detail the full course of the patient's disease.
Two-step total synthesis of an anti-MRSA and myosin-inhibiting marine natural product pentabromopseudilin via Suzuki-Miyaura coupling of a MIDA boronate ester

Abstract A marine natural product isolated from Pseudoalteromonas sp., pentabromopseudilin, with promising anti-MRSA and myosin ATPase inhibition activities was synthesized in two steps using recently developed MIDA boronate Suzuki-Miyaura coupling technology. Additionally, bromination was shown to be necessary for the antimicrobial activity of pentabromopseudilin.
Remarks on Traffic Flow Modeling and Its Applications

This document presents some recent results and ideas from the University of California (Berkeley) traffic operations group, and at the same time discusses the role of traffic flow modeling in traffic management and control. It stresses the steps that can be taken to reduce congestion and improve traffic efficiency, and how traffic models and theories fit within this picture.
Constructing a Cartesian Dynamics without “Fixed” Reference Frames: Collisions in the Center-of-Mass Frame

As previously discussed, Newton singled out Descartes’ espousal of an Aristotelian/Scholastic theory of place and motion as the primary target of his anti-relationalist assault. As mentioned in the Introduction, there would seem to exist two general strategies of countering Newton’s allegations: (1) accept the contention that a fixed reference frame is incompatible with the tenets of spacetime relationalism (and attempt to provide an alternative foundation for Cartesian dynamics based on one of the laws of nature, such as the third law of motion); or (2) on the contrary, insist that such frames can be successfully and coherently established in a continuously changing matter-filled universe. This chapter, like the dynamics-based “rest” force procedure reviewed in chapter 6, will take the former option. That is, we shall investigate, once again, the feasibility of providing a framework for a consistent set of material-interaction laws without recourse to permanent reference frames. In this regard, Huygens’ concept of a center-of-mass reference frame will prove invaluable, for it constitutes the a further means of preserving the basic content of Descartes’ collision rules without jeopardizing the Cartesian conservation law (i.e., quantity of motion). In short, on this version of Cartesian science, we can one again retain quantity of motion and Descartes’ theory of impact (from his third natural law). Unlike the method developed in chapter 6, however, Huygens’ approach to the problem attempts to utilize the predictions of just one of the seven collision rules, namely, the first rule, as a means of reconstructing a relationally compatible version of all bodily impact.
Abstract 253: Arterial Spin Labeling MRI Quantifies the Recovery of Myocardial Perfusion During Infarct Healing in Mice

Introduction: Experimental myocardial infarction (MI) and knockout mice are used to study the roles of individual genes in MI and post-MI left ventricular (LV) remodeling. Arterial spin labeling (ASL) MRI enables the quantification of myocardial perfusion (MP), but is sensitive to variable heart rates and erratic respiratory patterns, prohibiting accurate measurement early after MI. We developed a cardio-respiratory gated (CRG) ASL method that is insensitive to these factors in order to measure MP in mice. Methods: CRG-ASL was developed on a 7T MR system. Reperfused MI was induced in 7 mice via 1 hour coronary occlusion. MRI was performed at baseline (BSL) and at 1, 7, & 14 days post-MI. In addition to ASL, cine MRI assessed LV structure and function, and late gadolinium-enhancement (LGE) quantified infarct size. Results: At BSL, MP by ASL was 4.9±0.5 ml/g·min. Infarct size by LGE was 43.4±3.7% of LV mass. MP in the infarct zone decreased to 0.9±0.8 ml/g·min 1 day post-MI, and partially recovered to 2.8±0.6 and 3.5±0.4 ml/g·min on days 7 and 14 post-MI (Fig). Increased LV volumes and decreased function were seen by day 14 (Table). Conclusion: CRG-ASL quantifies regional changes in MP after MI. These changes likely reflect neovascularization during infarct healing. This method, when applied to genetically-engineered mice, may elucidate the roles of individual genes in post-MI neovascularization. This research has received full or partial funding support from the American Heart Association, Mid-Atlantic Affiliate (Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia & Washington, DC).
Increased expression of fascin, motility associated protein, in cell cultures derived from ovarian cancer and in borderline and carcinomatous ovarian tumors.

Fascin bundles actin microfilaments within dynamic cellular structures such as microspikes, stress fibers and membrane ruffles. Fascin overexpression induces membrane protrusions and increased cell motility, and is highly expressed in various transformed cells, and in specialized normal cells including neuronal, endothelial and dendritic cells. In breast cancer, fascin expression correlates with high-grade tumors. To investigate whether fascin might be a predictor factor for ovarian cancer progression, eighteen cell cultures derived from ovarian cancer, and thirty four archival paraffin-embedded material of normal versus borderline and carcinomatous ovaries were stained by immunocytochemistry and immunohistochemistry with fascin Mab 55K-2. Overall expression of the fascin protein was found in 50% (9/18) of cell cultures derived from original samples of ovarian tumors. Expression of fascin protein was found in 67% (6/9) of cell cultures derived from patients diagnosed with stage IV disease, and 33% (3/9) of cell cultures from patients diagnosed with stage II/III. There was no clear relationship between fascin expression and histologic types, tumor grade, or DNA ploidy. However, 75% of cell cultures, which developed into a xenograft after intraperitoneal inoculation, showed fascin expression, while 86% of non-tumorigenic cell cultures did not show fascin expression. Expression of fascin in these established ovarian tumor cell cultures was significantly associated with the ability for these cells to grow intraperitoneally (P<0.05). Furthermore, fascin was never expressed in normal epithelial ovarian tissues, but was present in all pathologic ovaries. Both diffuse and focal patterns were observed in borderline ovarian tumors (67% and 33%), advanced primary ovarian cancer (67% and 33%) and metastatic ovarian cancer (89% and 11%). Therefore, our data suggest that fascin could serve as a prognostic factor for abnormal ovarian epithelial pathology and could be a novel target for the treatment of ovarian cancer.
Decellularized Extracellular Matrix Materials for Cardiac Repair and Regeneration

Decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) is a promising biomaterial for repairing cardiovascular tissue, as dECM most effectively captures the complex array of proteins, glycosaminoglycans, proteoglycans, and many other matrix components that are found in native tissue, providing ideal cues for regeneration and repair of damaged myocardium. dECM can be used in a variety of forms, such as solid scaffolds that maintain native matrix structure, or as soluble materials that can form injectable hydrogels for tissue repair. dECM has found recent success in many regeneration and repair therapies, such as for musculoskeletal, neural, and liver tissues. This review focuses on dECM in the context of cardiovascular applications, with variations in tissue and species sourcing, and specifically discusses advances in solid and soluble dECM development, in vitro studies, in vivo implementation, and clinical translation.
Synthesis of Alkylidenecyclopentenones via the Coupling of Propargyl Alcohol Derivatives with Cyclopropylcarbene−Chromium Complexes

The coupling of propargylic alcohols and their derivatives with cyclopropylcarbene−chromium complexes has been investigated. The coupling reaction leads to alkylidenecyclopentenones or alkoxyalkylcyclopentenones, depending on the leaving group ability of the propargyl substituent. A mechanism involving formation of a cyclopentadienone, followed by reduction and β-elimination, was proposed.
The Use of Prayer in the Management of Pain: A Systematic Review

The availability of safe and effective non-pharmacological therapies for pain is an important unmet medical need. Prayer may be considered as an effective adjunctive therapy for pain and this systematic review aims to clarify this association. Pertinent databases were searched for English language publications, dated 2000-2019. Inclusion criteria involved prayer as an on-site or personal intervention and at least one pre-specified pain-related outcome. We evaluated 411 abstracts. Nine studies met criteria. Active prayer to God emerged as a preferred beneficial intervention for religious patients undergoing surgery or a painful procedure. Prayer effect does not seem to be opioid mediated. Improved trial design will facilitate the study of prayer as an adjuvant therapy for pain.
Relationships between self-reported ankle function and modulation of Hoffmann reflex in patients with chronic ankle instability.

Abstract Objective To examine relationships between self-reported ankle function and Hoffmann (H) reflex modulation during changes in body positions in patients with chronic ankle instability (CAI). Design Observational. Setting Laboratory. Participants Thirty-one young adults with CAI (19 males, 12 females) participated. Main outcome measures There were two subscales of Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) to quantify self-reported ankle function during activities of daily living (ADL) and sports activities. Maximum H-reflexes (H-max) and motor waves (M-max) from soleus and fibularis longus were recorded while participants lied prone and stood in bipedal and unipedal stances. For each muscle, percent change scores in H max :M max ratios were calculated between each pair of positions: prone-to-bipedal, bipedal-to-unipedal, and prone-to-unipedal, and used as a measure of H-reflex modulation. Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated between FAAM and H-reflex modulation measures. Results There were significant correlations between: (1) FAAM-ADL and soleus prone-to-unipedal modulation (r = 0.384, p = 0.04), (2) FAAM-Sport and soleus prone-to-unipedal modulation (r = 0.505, p = 0.005), (3) FAAM-Sport and fibular bipedal-to-unipedal modulation (r = 0.377, p = 0.05), and (4) FAAM-Sport and fibular prone-to-unipedal modulation (r = 0.396, p = 0.04). Conclusions CAI patients presented moderate, positive relationships between self-reported ankle function and H-reflex modulation during changes in body positions.
New Developments in Digital and Wrap Contracts (2019-2020)

This essay discusses notable legal developments involving digital and other wrap contracts decided in 2019-2020.
Examen de la validité de construction de l’Échelle des Attitudes de Focusing (EAF) (Focusing Manner Scale–FMS-18) au moyen d’une analyse factorielle exploratoire et confirmatoire

Focusing practitioners and researchers emphasize the importance of Focusing attitudes. The purpose of this research was to gather evidence concerning the construct validity of the Focusing Manner S...
Recursive Interval-Halving Method for Generating Model Independent Impedance Tuner Characterizations

Existing impedance tuners are often able to utilize characterization processes that model the underlying behavior of the tuner's fundamental parameters to efficiently select a range of parameter settings that evenly span the device's potential impedance characteristics. However, new tuner implementations cannot take advantage of these processes without preestablished knowledge of their underlying behavior, and this behavior can be difficult to efficiently and reliably model. In such circumstances, a modelless characterization process is required to determine the device settings needed to span its possible impedance values efficiently and evenly. Here, a process using a recursive interval-halving approach is demonstrated for characterizing impedance tuners without the use of a model.
403 Clinical manifestations of patients with PANDAS in patients followed up at srebrnjak children’s hospital in 5-year period

PANDAS, or pediactric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder associated with Streptococcus pyogenes, is characterized by an acute onset of neuropsychiatric symptoms which seem unexplainable. These symptoms usually include obsessive-compulsive disorder, and a variety of tics, that appear in children before puberty. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical manifestations of our patients with PANDAS to the latest studies and report our findings. This retrospectiove study included 20 patients with valid clinical features of PANDAS who were treated and followed at Srebrnjak Children’s Hospital between 2014 and 2019. Our examinees were children before puberty which fullfilled the main criterion of early-onset and at least two major criteria – obsessions/compulsions (OCD) and neuromotor dysfunction (tics, hyperactivity). We retrospectively analized all the data with special focus on neuropsychiatric symptoms. In 5-year period a total of 20 children, 16 (80%) male and 4 (20%) female, aged 3 to 11 years (median age 6,5) were followed up under the diagnosis of PANDAS. Only one patient had a burdened perinatal history (prematurity, short-term mechanical ventilation, neuromotor habilitation). Family history of tics and autoimmune disorders was positive in N=5 (25%). All patients had OCD and tics with acute onset of symptoms. Elevated levels of antistreptolysin titers were found in all but one patient (95%). Anti-DNAse-B levels were tested in 7 patients and was elevated in 4 (57%). Attention disordes were present in N=17 (85%) and 4 (20%) patients had sleeping difficulties. Speech difficulties were detected in N=5 (25%). Decline in school performance was also commun in children attending school N=10 (71%). None of the patients had pathological changes in EEG, and those with neuroimaging studies (N=12 or 60%) did not have any speciffic findings. First-line antibiotics were given to 15 (75%) patients. In 5 (25%) patients a full regression of symptoms was registered, 10 (50%) had partial improvement, 5 (25%) had no response.In 7 (35%) patients intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG) were given after initial antibiotic treatment with incomplete regression. Tics persisted in 11 patients and 4 had tics with behavioral difficulties. In 7 patients treated with IVIG we proceeded with parenteral antibiotics because of partial symptom regression and 2 were given corticosteroids (still followed). We observed a higher rate of full symptom regression with first-line parenteral antibiotics and some of them improved after IVIG. Further research on larger cohorts of patients are necessary for better management of this clinical entity.
Stable Marriage and Its Relation to Other Combinatorial Problems: An Introduction to the Mathematical Analysis of Algorithms

Introduction, definitions, and examples Existence of a stable matching: the fundamental algorithm Principle of deferred decisions: coupon collecting Theoretical developments: application to the shortest path Searching a table by hashing mean behavior of thefundamental algorithm Implementing the fundamental algorithm Research problems Annotated bibliography Appendix A. Later developments Appendix B. Solutions to exercises Index.