cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Prenatal Diagnosis of Fetal Cranial Anomalies

Congenital anomalies of the fetal skull include deformational plagiocephaly, craniosynostosis, aplasia cutis congenita, and midline errors such as dermoid cysts and encephaloceles. With improvements in prenatal imaging, diagnosis of these malformations has become increasingly common. Routine prenatal ultrasound is able to identify many of these abnormalities, which provides the opportunity for further radiographic and/or genetic evaluation when appropriate. In utero diagnosis of cranial anomalies allows the perinatologist to take appropriate measures prior to delivery as well as to provide counseling for expecting families.
Computer-aided retrosynthetic design: fundamentals, tools, and outlook

Identifying synthetic routes to molecules of interest has been one of the most challenging tasks for synthetic chemists. We have witnessed the gradual adoption of computational tools in solving retrosynthetic design problems for the past 50 years. Especially in the past five years, computer-aided retrosynthesis publications have become more common due to advancements in computing power, data availability, and data-driven algorithms. This paper provides a review of contemporary retrosynthesis methodologies. We define the retrosynthesis framework and describe how machine learning techniques contribute to reaction template extraction and synthetic complexity ranking. We explore template-based and template-free synthetic search strategies and discuss how learning algorithms can prioritize the most applicable transformation rules. We conclude by addressing potential challenges and opportunities facing automated synthetic planning.
Post-Treatment FDG-PET/CT Hopkins Criteria Predict Locoregional Recurrence After Definitive Radiotherapy for Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

Purpose/Objective(s) Surveillance after definitive radiotherapy for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) is critical to confirm clinical complete response, as a subset of patients develop locoregional recurrences (LRR). The Hopkins Criteria are a standardized qualitative system for assessing response using post-treatment PET/CT and are validated for overall (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). We hypothesized that the Hopkins Criteria score is independently prognostic for LRR. Materials/Methods We conducted an institutional retrospective study of adult patients with newly-diagnosed node-positive non-metastatic OPSCC treated with definitive (chemo)radiotherapy. Patients were eligible if they completed a pre- and post-radiotherapy PET/CT within 24 weeks after treatment. The primary outcome was the cumulative incidence of locoregional recurrence/persistence. A single board-certified nuclear medicine physician assigned Hopkins scores, which were considered either positive (scores 4-5) or negative (scores 1-3). Results Between 2004-2018, 259 patients were included in this analysis, while an additional 221 were excluded, most commonly due to lack of post-treatment PET/CT [37%] or N0 disease [22%]. Most patients were men (90%), 47% had never smoked, 86% had p16+/HPV+ tumors, and 39% had T3-4 tumors. Nearly all (98%) received concurrent chemotherapy, while 11% received induction chemotherapy. Median clinical follow-up was 40 months. Following radiotherapy, the first post-treatment PET/CT was positive (score 4-5) at the primary site in 32 patients (12%), cervical lymph nodes in 26 patients (10%), and either the primary site or neck in 50 patients (19%). This PET/CT was performed at a median of 3.3 months [range, 1.6-6.0] after radiotherapy. Thirty-four (13%) LRRs were observed. The sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value, and overall accuracy of the Hopkins score for LRR were 68%, 88%, 95%, and 85%. The 36-month cumulative incidence of LRR was greater among patients with Hopkins scores 4-5 (45% vs. 5%, multivariable-adjusted HR 14.16, P Conclusion There is a lack of consensus reporting standards for response assessment after definitive radiotherapy for OPSCC. The Hopkins Criteria are an easily-implemented standard that appear to offer high accuracy for recurrence and death. These data support an initial PET/CT at least three months after radiotherapy to limit unnecessary diagnostic procedures.
Adenovirus DNA: Transcription During Productive Infection, Integration in Transformed Cells, and Replication in Vitro

The human adenoviruses provide excellent model systems for studying the molecular biology of the mammalian cell, i.e., the mechanism of DNA replication and RNA transcription and translation, and for analyzing the integration and function of viral genes in transformed cells. Adenoviruses are icosahedral particles that are 80 nm in diameter, weigh 175 million daltons, and contain 9–10 polypeptides and 12–13% DNA (Green, 1970). Adenovirus genomes are linear, duplex DNA molecules of molecular weight 20–25 x 106 (Green, 1970). The interaction of the adenovirus genome with the cell can result in either (i) productive infection (usually human cells) in which thousands of virus particles are replicated and the cell is killed, or (ii) cell transformation (usually rodent cells) in which no virus is formed, but a portion of the viral genome is integrated into cellular DNA, and growth properties and macromolecular synthesis are controlled in an unknown way by information from viral genes.
Guarded Play: Multi-Tasking in Parent-Child Interactions

This brief analysis utilizes a CA perspective to deepen our understanding of the ways in which participants in interactions are able to handle more than one activity simultaneously. Many of the studies on multi-tasking address this from a cognitive science perspective, focusing on the brain’s ability to attend to several tasks at once. According to this work, we humans do a less than stellar job at balancing more than one thing at a time. In fact, with each task we add to the mix, our performance suffers that much more. As a social scientist, I find these conclusions enlightening and worthy of further study. As a mother, I chuckle, because even as I write this, my ear is bent to my daughter doing homework and the dinner that is on the stove. Since at the end of the day, every member of my family is fed, cleaned, and accounted for, I proclaim that I do my job successfully. Thus, I agree wholeheartedly with the argument (Good, 2009) that by looking at the social action of multi-tasking as it happens in real time, we might complicate the notion that it is something that humans cannot do well.
Elementary Body Envelopes from Chlamydia psittaci Can Induce Immediate Cytotoxicity in Resident Mouse Macrophages and L-Cells

Isolated, purified Chlamydia psittaci elementary body envelopes at a high multiplicity of infection (1,000:1) are capable of inducing immediate cytotoxicity in resident mouse macrophages and 929 L-cells.
A study of Schwarz converters for nuclear powered spacecraft

High power space systems which use low dc voltage, high current sources such as thermoelectric generators, will most likely require high voltage conversion for transmission purposes. This study considers the use of the Schwarz resonant converter for use as the basic building block to accomplish this low-to-high voltage conversion for either a dc or an ac spacecraft bus. The Schwarz converter has the important assets of both inherent fault tolerance and resonant operation; parallel operation in modular form is possible. A regulated dc spacecraft bus requires only a single stage converter while a constant frequency ac bus requires a cascaded Schwarz converter configuration. If the power system requires constant output power from the dc generator, then a second converter is required to route unneeded power to a ballast load.
DNA-replication checkpoint control at the Drosophila midblastula transition

Embryogenesis is typically initiated by a series of rapid mitotic divisions that are under maternal genetic control. The switch to zygotic control of embryogenesis at the midblastula transition is accompanied by significant increases in cell-cycle length and gene transcription, and changes in embryo morphology. Here we show that mutations in the grapes (grp) checkpoint 1 kinase homologue in Drosophila block the morphological and biochemical changes that accompany the midblastula transition, lead to a continuation of the maternal cell-cycle programme, and disrupt DNA-replication checkpoint control of cell-cycle progression. The timing of the midblastula transition is controlled by the ratio of nuclei to cytoplasm (the nucleocytoplasmic ratio), suggesting that this developmental transition is triggered by titration of a maternal factor by the increasing mass of nuclear material that accumulates during the rapid embryonic mitoses. Our observations support a model for cell-cycle control at the midblastula transition in which titration of a maternal component of the DNA-replication machinery slows DNA synthesis and induces a checkpoint-dependent delay in cell-cycle progression. This delay may allow both completion of S phase and transcription of genes that initiate the switch to zygotic control of embryogenesis.
MODEL TESTING OF TENSION LEG PLATFORMS - PART II: EXPERIMENTAL HARDWARE AND DATA ANALYSIS

The purpose of this part (Part II) of the paper is to discuss different aspects involved in the design and fabrication of the experimental hardware, instrumentation and data acquisition procedures in hydrodynamic model testing. It reviews some of the design problems and innovations in model construction of TLPs. The use of different types of instrumentation is discussed. The data acquisition and experiment control hardware and software in use at the Hydraulics Laboratory are also presented. See also the previous abstract.
A Review of “The Marriage Checkup Practitioner's Guide: Promoting Lifelong Relationship Health”

The advancement of research on the practical and emotional benefits of intimacy between married partners is well documented in the field today. Despite increasing evidence demonstrating the importa...
Limited utility of MRA for acute bowel ischemia after portal venous phase CT

Mesenteric ischemia and ischemic colitis are uncommon but potentially life-threatening causes of acute abdominal pain. Portal venous phase computed tomography (CT) is routinely ordered in the emergency room setting for abdominal pain, but subsequent MR angiography may be requested for additional evaluation of the mesenteric vasculature. We compare the concordance of CT and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) for acute bowel ischemia. Thirty-two patients who underwent contrast-enhanced MRA for bowel ischemia after having undergone CT evaluation within the preceding 2 weeks were identified. A retrospective review of imaging, treatment history, surgical, and pathology reports was conducted. Two radiologists each reviewed the imaging studies in a blinded fashion. Ten cases of bowel ischemia were confirmed by endoscopy and/or surgical pathology. CT correctly identified bowel findings in all cases. Intraobserver agreement between CT and MRA for all vessels was 0.68 and 0.63, highest for the superior mesenteric artery. Interobserver agreement was 0.74 for MRA and 0.78 for CT. Vascular findings were only directly mentioned in 10 of 32 CT reports (and 7 of 10 cases with confirmed bowel ischemia). MRA only detected two additional or alternative diagnoses. Portal venous phase CT and MRA demonstrate a high degree of concordance for vascular evaluation. Reviewed CT examinations were sufficient to assess the patency of the mesenteric vasculature, but vascular findings were not reported in most cases. A direct description within the report may have obviated the request for further MR imaging. MRA adds little value after portal venous CT in assessing bowel ischemia.
A giant surprise

The discovery of an inner giant planet in the unusually massive solar system around the star HR 8799 creates an ensemble of planets that is difficult to explain with prevailing theories of planet formation. See Letter p.1080 A fourth planet has been discovered orbiting the nearby star HR 8799. Three giant planets had been imaged directly in the near-infrared — thanks to their wide orbits and brightness. The fourth is interior to and about the same mass as the other three. The system, with this additional planet, represents a challenge for current planet formation models, as none of them can explain the in situ formation of all four planets.
Analysis of the design space available for high- kgate dielectrics in nanoscale MOSFETs

We present an analysis of the scaling behavior of MOSFETs with high- k gate insulators which elucidates the useful design space for such insulators. This analysis demonstrates that the design space is smaller than might be hoped and that within it, nanoscale bulk MOSFETs can only gain up to ∼ 20% additional scaling by use of high- k insulators, while symmetric double-gated FETs may gain up to ∼ 30%. It is shown that this analysis does not depend significantly on the gate sidewall dielectric constant or its spacing.
Economic Growth, Civil Wars, and Spatial Spillovers:

A neoclassical growth model is used to empirically test for the influences of a civil war on steady-state income per capita both at home and in neighboring countries. This model provides the basis for measuring long-run and short-run effects of civil wars on income per capita growth in the host country and its neighbors. Evidence of significant collateral damage on economic growth in neighboring nations is uncovered. In addition, this damage is attributed to country-specific influences rather than to migration, human capital, or investment factors. As the intensity of the measure used to proxy the conflict increases, there are enhanced neighbor spillovers. Moreover, collateral damage from civil wars to growth is more pronounced in the short run.
Responsibility, Reaction, and Value

Many writers accept the following thesis about responsibility: (R) For one to be responsible for something is for one to be such that it is fitting that one be the object of some reactive attitude with respect to that thing. This thesis bears a striking resemblance to a thesis about value that is also accepted by many writers: (V) For something to be good (or neutral, or bad) is for it to be such that it is fitting that it be the object of some pro-attitude (or indifference, or some contra-attitude). V has been the subject of intense debate in recent years, in part because of its incorporation into what has come to be called the “buck-passing” account of value. In particular, V is open to three challenges: that it is not necessarily the case that whatever is good is the fitting object of a pro-attitude; that it is not necessarily the case that whatever is the fitting object of a pro-attitude is good; and that, even if there is a strict equivalence between what is good and what is the fitting object of a pro-attitude, still the former is not to be analyzed in terms of the latter. The resemblance between V and R has not been previously commented on, but, once it is recognized, it is clear that R is open to challenges that resemble those to which V is vulnerable. This paper explores both the challenges to V and the parallel challenges to R and discusses responses that may be given to these challenges. The interrelation between V and R is then examined, and a general lesson is drawn concerning how to adjudicate disputes about the nature of moral responsibility.
Sickness and Survival in Bladder Cancer: Is Comorbidity the Crystal Ball?

Comorbidity is an important factor to consider in almost all cancer patients as it clearly impacts on diagnosis, treatment and consequently, outcome. In fields such as cardiac and spine surgery, it has long been recognized that accurate comorbidity assessment and appropriate patient selection holds the key to improving outcomes [1]. In the context of cancer patients, it is well recognized that comorbidity is inversely related to treatment intensity. However this is based on the assumption that the assessment of comorbidity is accurate, is independently related to long term outcome (survival) and has direct bearing on management decisions for the cancer under consideration. As reported in the study by Megwalu et al. in this issue of European Urology, comorbidity significantly predicted overall survival in a large cohort of patients with both non-muscle invasive and muscle invasive bladder cancer [2]. While it is somewhat easier to perform a chart based assessment of comorbidity in a single institution dataset as performed by Megwalu et al., determination of comorbidity burden in larger cohorts, especially using administrative data, is very difficult. Furthermore, comparison of comorbidity assessments between studies is also difficult. In examining claims based data, it is possible that the denominator of coexisting conditions is always lesser or greater than that counted as true comorbidities. In an effort to standardize
Lossy (15:1) JPEG Compression of Digital Coronary Angiograms Does Not Limit Detection of Subtle Morphological Features

Background Development of the “all-digital” cardiac catheterization laboratory has been slowed by substantial computer archival and transfer requirements. Lossy data compression reduces this burden but creates irreversible changes in images, potentially impairing detection of clinically important angiographic features. Methods and Results Fifty image sequences from 31 interventional procedures were viewed both in the original (uncompressed) state and after 15:1 lossy Joint Photographic Expert’s Group (JPEG) compression. Experienced angiographers identified dissections, suspected thrombi, and coronary stents, and their results were compared with those from a consensus panel that served as a “gold standard.” The panel and the individual observers reviewed the same image sequences 4 months after the first session to determine intraobserver variability. Intraobserver agreement for original images was not significantly different from that for compressed images (89.8% versus 89.5% for 600 pairs of observations ...
Self‐consistent theory of polymer dynamics in melts

We present a model describing the dynamics of a flexible linear polymer in a monodisperse melt. The polymer is represented by a freely jointed chain that moves by two coupled dynamical processes. The first is a kink–jump motion that may be blocked by obstacles, and the second is a slithering motion that mimics reptation. The obstacles relax with a distribution of time scales. This distribution is determined self‐consistently by the requirement that it be identical to a distribution of time scales associated with the relaxation of the slowest internal modes of the chain. The calculation of observables is shown to be equivalent to the solution of a random walk problem with dynamical disorder. We determine this solution by applying the dynamical effective medium approximation. Within the resulting theory, the mean squared displacement of a polymer bead on any time scale may be determined by solving a fifth order algebraic equation and inverting a Laplace transform. We present calculations of the self‐diffusion coefficient in a melt and of the tracer diffusion coefficient of a chain of a given molecular weight at infinite dilution in a melt of another molecular weight. For the self‐diffusion coefficient, the theory predicts results consistent with the Rouse model for short chains and behavior consistent with the reptation picture for long chains. The crossover between these limiting behaviors is described. Comparison is made to measurements of tracer and self‐diffusion in polystyrene melts.
Perceived fairness of drug-testing policies: An application of Leventhal’s principles of procedural justice

Employees rate the fairness of organizational policies by applying principles of distributive and procedural justice. Using Leventhal’s (1980) Principles of Procedural Justice, the current study surveyed 279 upper-level college and graduate students to determine the impact each principle has on support for drugtesting policies. The results support the hypothesis that drug-testing programs that violate these principles are viewed as unfair.
Cyclophilins: unexpected messengers in intercellular communications

Abstract Cyclophilins are abundant cellular proteins best known for their affinity for the immunosuppressive drug cyclosporin A. Until now, the physiological roles of cyclophilins were limited to intracellular functions. A recent paper by Allain and colleagues demonstrates that extracellular cyclophilin B specifically enhances chemotaxis and adhesion of the memory CD4 + T cells. This effect also requires glycosaminoglycans, thus adding cyclophilin B to other glycosaminoglycan-dependent factors that regulate leukocyte trafficking.
Mechanisms of hormone resistance: lessons from insulin-resistant patients

Hormones are secreted by endocrine glands and transported to the target cell at which the hormone acts. The hormone binds to its receptor, thereby eliciting various biological responses within the target cell. Examples of disease mechanisms that function at the different stages in the development of the insulin receptor, and result in insulin resistance, are discussed in this review. Antibodies to insulin can impair delivery of the hormone to the target cell, and can desensitize that target cell to insulin action. In recent years, several genetic diseases have been identified that result from mutations in the genes encoding the relevant receptors. Studies of syndromes of insulin resistance provide illustrations of the multiple types of defects in receptor function that can generally cause hormone resistance (12, 13). For example, mutations in the receptor can decrease the number of receptors on the cell surface by inhibiting receptor biosynthesis, impairing receptor transport to the cell surface, or accelerating the rate of receptor degradation. Alternatively, mutations have been identified that decrease the affinity of insulin binding or inhibit receptor tyrosine kinase activity. In recent years, there has been considerable progress toward elucidating post-receptor mechanisms in the biochemical pathways of hormone action. At present, there are a limited number of examples of mutations in genes encoding proteins that function in this part of the pathway, but it seems likely that additional examples will be discovered in the future. It is likely that these insights into biochemical mechanisms of disease will ultimately lead to an improvement in our ability to treat human disease.
Development, functionality, and consumer acceptance of a novel ready-to-eat lamb leg product

The objective was to determine an ideal formulation for maximal acceptability and functionality of a ready-to-eat lamb leg product, evaluated by sliceability, sensorial attributes, lipid oxidative stability (TBA), and consumer analysis. Lamb legs (n=160) underwent two aging treatments (21d and 42d) and one of four marinations (Control, American, Caribbean, or Moroccan). Sliceability and TBA were not affected by marination (P >0.05). Cook loss was affected by marination and aging (P<0.05). Marination by aging affected initial (IJ) and sustained juiciness (SJ), flavor intensity, and overall acceptability (P<0.05), but not IJ, SJ, or warmed-over flavor (P>0.05). Control was juiciest and most accepted while American had most intense flavor (21d). American was juiciest and had most intense flavor and acceptance (42d). Consumer analysis of flavor, overall acceptability, and willingness to purchase was affected by marination (P<0.05); American had the highest values for all attributes. Consumers most frequently ranked the American marination treatment as most liked.
Highlights and Summaries of the 11th International Workshops on Opportunistic Protists

. The 11th in the series of International Workshops on Opportunistic Protists (IWOP-11) was held in August 2010 on the Big Island of Hawaii. These meetings are devoted to agents of infections that cause serious problems in AIDS patients and other individuals with defective immune systems. International Workshops on Opportunistic Protists serves as a forum for exchange of current research information on Pneumocystis, Cryptosporidium and the Microsporidia, Toxoplasma, free-living amoebae, kinetoplastid flagellates and other pathogens that are particularly pathogenic in immunodeficient hosts. Studies on interactions between host and pathogen, especially host responses, were highlighted in this year's symposium. The lack of in vitro cultivation methods for luxuriant growth of Pneumocystis, Cryptosporidium and the Enterocytozoon bieneusi remains a major hindrance to understanding the basic biology of these organisms and precludes genetic manipulations. However, slow but steady progress is being achieved by hard work including data mining of some completed or partially completed genome sequencing of several IWOP organisms. Of great concern is evidence for dramatic decline in research funding for these pathogens and the lack of appreciation by the larger scientific community concerning the state of art and challenges faced by researchers working on these organisms that can provide critical insight into emerging and reemerging pathogens.
The Identification and Modification of Defense Mechanisms in Counseling.

This article suggests considerations and strategies for identifying and modifying a client's defense mechanisms in counseling. A systematic approach to a client's mechanisms of defense contributes to therapeutic gain. Inappropriate counselor responses intensify an individual's defenses and undermine the counseling relationship. Definitions of individual defenses and indicators for identifying the mechanisms are provided. A literature review focuses on the counseling implications of the defenses. The process of defense mechanism modification is illustrated through a case example.
The fidelity of human DNA polymerase gamma with and without exonucleolytic proofreading and the p55 accessory subunit.

Mutations in human mitochondrial DNA influence aging, induce severe neuromuscular pathologies, cause maternally inherited metabolic diseases, and suppress apoptosis. Since the genetic stability of mitochondrial DNA depends on the accuracy of DNA polymerase γ (pol γ), we investigated the fidelity of DNA synthesis by human pol γ. Comparison of the wild-type 140-kDa catalytic subunit to its exonuclease-deficient derivative indicates pol γ has high base substitution fidelity that results from high nucleotide selectivity and exonucleolytic proofreading. pol γ is also relatively accurate for single-base additions and deletions in non-iterated and short repetitive sequences. However, when copying homopolymeric sequences longer than four nucleotides, pol γ has low frameshift fidelity and also generates base substitutions inferred to result from a primer dislocation mechanism. The ability of pol γ both to make and to proofread dislocation intermediates is the first such evidence for a family A polymerase. Including the p55 accessory subunit, which confers processivity to the pol γ catalytic subunit, decreases frameshift and base substitution fidelity. Kinetic analyses indicate that p55 promotes extension of mismatched termini to lower the fidelity. These data suggest that homopolymeric runs in mitochondrial DNA may be particularly prone to frameshift mutation in vivo due to replication errors by pol γ.
Structural analysis of Ge x Si 1- x /Si layers by remote plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition on Si (100)

In this work, remote plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (RPCVD) has been used to grow GexSi1−x/Si layers on Si(100) substrates at 450° C. The RPCVD technique, unlike conventional plasma CVD, uses an Ar (or He) plasma remote from the substrate to indirectly excite the reactant gases (SiH4 and GeH4) and drive the chemical deposition reactions. In situ reflection high energy electron diffraction, selected area diffraction, and plan-view and cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy (XTEM) were used to confirm the single crystallinity of these heterostructures, and secondary ion mass spectroscopy was used to verify abrupt transitions in the Ge profile. XTEM shows very uniform layer thicknesses in the quantum well structures, suggesting a Frank/ van der Merwe 2-D growth mechanism. The layers were found to be devoid of extended crystal defects such as misfit dislocations, dislocation loops, and stacking faults, within the TEM detection limits (∼105 dislocations/cm2). GexSi1−x/Si epitaxial films with various Ge mole fractions were grown, where the Ge contentx is linearly dependent on the GeH4 partial pressure in the gas phase for at leastx = 0 − 0.3. The incorporation rate of Ge from the gas phase was observed to be slightly higher than that of Si (1.3:1).
Apical and basolateral pools of proteinase-activated receptor-2 direct distinct signaling events in the intestinal epithelium.

Studies suggest that there are two distinct pools of proteinase-activated receptor-2 (PAR2) present in intestinal epithelial cells: an apical pool accessible from the lumen, and a basolateral pool ...
Role of Lactose in Modifying Gel Transition Temperature and Morphology of Self-assembled Hydrogels

Lactose, a low-value dairy byproduct, was investigated as a gelling agent that could be used to tune the gel transition temperature (Tgel) and morphology of self-assembled fatty acid and fatty amine gels prepared in a water/alcohol cosolvent. Palmitic acid−lactose and n-hexadecylamine−lactose gels were studied using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. Lactose was observed to lower the Tgel of the palmitic acid system while raising the Tgel of the n-hexadecylamine system. Pores ranging from ∼20 to 50 μm were observed for the n-hexadecylamine−lactose gel while ∼5−10 μm pores were observed for the palmitic acid−lactose gel. Compared to the pure palmitic acid, the infrared spectra of the palmitic acid−lactose system exhibit a 9 cm-1 shift of the carbonyl (CO) stretching vibration and up to a 29 cm-1 shift of three hydroxyl (O−H) stretching vibrations, implying strong intermolecular hydrogen bonding. In contrast, a covalent conjugation is indicate...
Temporal and spatial variations in the solute content of an alpine stream, Colorado Front Range

Seven years of discharge and water quality records define temporal and spatial patterns of solute movement in a Colorado alpine stream system. Dissolved solids concentrations are low, generally less than 30 mg 1−1 and occasionally less than 3 mg 1−1 at the highest elevations. Calcium is the dominant cation and bicarbonate and sulfate are the main anions. Temporal changes in solute concentrations are dominated by an annual cycle with high values in late winter and spring that decrease rapidly during early summer and then return more slowly through fall. This pattern corresponds to the seasonal streamflow regime and reflects differential elution of the snowpack by meltwater and changing proportions of surface and subsurface water in the streamflow. The amplitude of the annual cycle of solute concentration is reduced with increasing catchment area and where the groundwater contribution to flow is relatively high. In general, solute concentrations increase down valley but this trend is reversed in the case of biologically important solutes, such as nitrate and potassium. Rates of geochemical denudation are dominated by the volume of water discharge and thus are highest in the parts of the basin that accumulate the greatest depths of winter snow. They vary between 5 and 26 g m−2 yr−1 for different parts of the catchment and average less than 9 g m−2 yr−1. These rates are low compared to those from high-elevation catchments elsewhere but are an order of magnitude higher than rates of sediment removal from the basin.
Effects of Acute and Chronic Inflammation on B-Cell Development and Differentiation

Recently, our understanding of hematopoiesis and the development of the immune system has fundamentally changed, leading to significant discoveries with important clinical relevance. Hematopoiesis, once described in terms of irreversible and discrete developmental branch points, is now understood to exist as a collection of alternative developmental pathways capable of generating functionally identical progeny. Developmental commitment to a particular blood-cell lineage is gradually acquired and reflects both cell intrinsic and extrinsic signals. Chief among the extrinsic factors are the environmental cues of hematopoietic microenvironments that comprise specific "developmental niches" that support hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. Most of this new understanding comes from the study of normal, steady-state hematopoiesis, but there is ample reason to expect that special developmental and/or differentiative mechanisms operate in response to inflammation. For example, both stem and progenitor cells are now known to express Toll-like receptors that can influence hematopoietic cell fates in response to microbial products. Likewise, proinflammatory cytokines mobilize hematopoietic stem cells to peripheral tissues. In this Perspective, we review inflammation's effects on central and extramedullary B lymphopoiesis and discuss the potential consequences of peripheral B-cell development in the context of systemic autoimmune diseases.
Management of poisoning associated with “newer” antidepressant agents

Overdose of tricyclic antidepressants remains one of the most difficult poisonings to manage optimally in the emergency department, primarily due to the extremely rapid onset of life-threatening symptomatology. The continued high incidence of such overdoses has ensured that morbidity and mortality rates also remain unacceptably high. The development of the "second-generation antidepressants," with apparently different pharmacology and toxicity after overdose, has been an attempt to address this serious medical problem. This report reviews the published literature on the overdose toxicology of the newer cyclic antidepressants currently available in the United States — amoxapine, maprotiline, and trazodone. Nomifensine, released by the FDA in 1984, recently has been voluntarily withdrawn from the world market. Bupropion, released in 1985, also has been voluntarily withdrawn by the manufacturer three months after its release.
Probucol enhances cholesterol efflux from cultured human skin fibroblasts

To explore whether the reported xanthoma-reducting effects of probucol are related to tissue-specific mechanisms of the drug, the influence of probucol on cholesterol efflux from cultured human skin fibroblasts was investigated. Incubation of cells with probucol led to a 2-fold enhancement of high-density lipoprotein-mediated cholesterol efflux. This result raises the possibility that probucol may reduce cholesterol accumulation in tissues through a cholesterol-mobilizing action.
Modeling heterogeneous data sources for speech recognition using synchronous hidden Markov models

In this paper, we propose a novel acoustic modeling framework, synchronous HMM, which takes full advantage of the capacity of the heterogeneous data sources and achieves an optimal balance between modeling accuracy and robustness. The synchronous HMM introduces an additional layer of substates between the HMM states and the Gaussian component variables. The substates have the capability to register long-span non-phonetic attributes, which are integrally called speech scenes in this study. The hierarchical modeling scheme allows an accurate description of probability distribution of speech units in different speech scenes. To address the data sparsity problem, a decision-based clustering algorithm is presented to determine the set of speech scenes and to tie the substate parameters. Moreover, we propose the multiplex Viterbi algorithm to efficiently decode the synchronous HMMs within a search space of the same size as for the standard HMMs. The experiments on the Aurora 2 task show that the synchronous HMMs produce a significant improvement in recognition performance over the HMM baseline at the expense of a moderate increase in the memory requirement and computational complexity.
Media representation of the Middle East: constructive student engagement in an online environment

As educators interested in pedagogical uses of technology, we utilize the internet to improve students' knowledge and awareness of the world beyond our own national borders. Web-based technologies offer us resources for our courses and can play an important role in promoting a more active style of learning from our students. Yet when teaching about politically sensitive topics, or regions of the world that are less well known, we inevitably access information that is unfiltered, out-of-context, inaccurate, or biased. This paper will be an exploration of how we taught students to critically engage with each other and with online media sources through a class blog discussing the violence in Gaza during January of 2009. During the two-week project, the students investigated this new media landscape (from blogs to YouTube) increasing their levels of techno-literacy by searching beyond their ‘normal’ sources and by recognizing the political bias present in all online venues. Evidence will show how the students...
The persistence length of DNA is reached from the persistence length of its null isomer through an internal electrostatic stretching force

To understand better the effect of electrostatics on the rigidity of the DNA double helix, we define DNA*, the null isomer of DNA, as the hypothetical structure that would result from DNA if its phosphate groups were not ionized. For the purposes of theoretical analysis, we model DNA* as identical to ordinary DNA but supplemented by a longitudinal compression force equal in magnitude but oppositely directed to the stretching (tension) force on DNA caused by phosphate-phosphate repulsions. The null isomer DNA* then becomes an elastically buckled form of fully ionized DNA. On this basis, we derive a nonadditive relationship between the persistence length P of DNA and the persistence length P* of its null isomer. From the formula obtained we can predict the value of P* if P is known, and we can predict the ionic strength dependence of P under the assumption that P* does not depend on ionic strength. We predict a value of P* for null DNA drastically lower than the value of P for DNA in its ordinary state of fully ionized phosphates. The predicted dependence of P on salt concentration is log-c over most of the concentration range, with no tendency toward a salt-independent value in the range of validity of the theory. The predictions are consistent with much of the persistence-length data available for DNA. Alternate theories of the Odijk-Skolnik-Fixman type, including one by the author, are considered skeptically on the grounds that the underlying model may not be realistic. Specifically, we doubt the accuracy for real polyelectrolytes of the Odijk-Skolnik-Fixman assumption that the polymer structure is invariant to changes in electrostatic forces.
INFORMA: Exploring Possibilities in Multimedia

In 1989, IBM desiring to establish closer working relationships with libraries particularly with academic libraries established INFORMA as “a forum for current and prospective users of IBM technology in libraries.” INFORMA is directed by a steering committee composed of representatives from institutions currently using IBM technology for library automation, with IBM serving as corporate sponsor. Chair of the committee for the first year was Kaye Gapen, dean of the University of Wisconsin's General Library System, and an IBM consulting scholar. Jordan Scepanski, director of libraries and learning resources, California State University at Long Beach, is the current chair.
Prenatal development of the eye in the golden hamster

Prenatal development of the eye in golden hamsters is described at the light microscopic level as twelve periods based on salient morphological features. Period one includes shallow and deepened optic sulci in the cephalic neural plate and closing prosencephalon. Period two shows V-shaped prosencephalic evaginations, and Period three, bulbous vesicles. Contact of the retinal disc and lens placode at Period four precedes presumptive retinal invagination and lens pit formation during Period five. During Period six an open lens vesicle, precociously expanded dorsal and lateral optic cup regions and widespread optic fissure margins are evident. A spherical lens lumen, deepened optic cup and narrow optic fissure characterize Period seven. At Period eight posterior lens fibers are elongated, the optic cup is expanded ventrally, and optic fissure margins are juxtaposed or fusing. By Period nine the lens lumen is nearly or completely occluded, the optic fissure is essentially fused and axonal fibers are exiting from the globe. During Period ten corneal components are associated, axonal processes extend to the diencephalon, and lid folds cover more than half of the cornea. By Period eleven eyelids are fused. Anteriorly the pigmented epithelium is thickened and densely pigmented; outer and inner neuroblastic retinal layers are clearly distinguishable. Period twelve is marked by conspicuous anterior folds of pigmented epithelium; a relatively anuclear zone virtually separates outer and inner neuroblastic layers of the retina.
Vertebral artery injuries in cervical spine surgery.

Abstract Background context Vertebral artery injuries (VAIs) are rare but serious complications of cervical spine surgery, with the potential to cause catastrophic bleeding, permanent neurologic impairment, and even death. The present literature regarding incidence of this complication largely comprises a single surgeon or small multicenter case series. Purpose We sought to gather a large sample of high-volume surgeons to adequately characterize the incidence and risk factors for VAI, management strategies used, and patient outcomes after VAI. Study design The study was constructed as a cross-sectional study comprising all cervical spine patients operated on by the members of the international Cervical Spine Research Society (CSRS). Patient sample All patients who have undergone cervical spine surgery by a current member of CSRS as of the spring of 2012. Outcome measures For each surgeon surveyed, we collected self-reported measures to include the number of cervical cases performed in the surgeon's career, the number of VAIs encountered, the stage of the case during which the injury occurred, the management strategies used, and the overall patient outcome after injury. Methods An anonymous 10-question web-based survey was distributed to the members of the CSRS. Statistical analysis was performed using Student t tests for numerical outcomes and chi-squared analysis for categorical variables. Results One hundred forty-one CSRS members (of 195 total, 72%) responded to the survey, accounting for a total of 163,324 cervical spine surgeries performed. The overall incidence of VAI was 0.07% (111/163,324). Posterior instrumentation of the upper cervical spine (32.4%), anterior corpectomy (23.4%), and posterior exposure of the cervical spine (11.7%) were the most common stages of the case to result in an injury to the vertebral artery. Discectomy (9%) and anterior exposure of the spine (7.2%) were also common time points for an arterial injury. One-fifth (22/111) of all VAI involved an anomalous course of the vertebral artery. The most common management of VAI was by direct tamponade. The outcomes of VAIs included no permanent sequelae in 90% of patients, permanent neurologic sequelae in 5.5%, and death in 4.5%. Surgeons at academic and private centers had nearly identical rates of VAIs. However, surgeons who had performed 300 or fewer cervical spine surgeries in their career had a VAI incidence of 0.33% compared with 0.06% in those with greater than 300 lifetime cases (p=.028). Conclusions The overall incidence of VAI during cervical spine surgery reported from this survey was 0.07%. Less experienced surgeons had a higher rate of VAI compared with their more experienced peers. The results of VAI are highly variable, resulting in no permanent harm most of the time; however, permanent neurologic injury or death occur in 10% of cases.
Making Ripples: Rethinking Pedagogy in the Digital Age

This essay presents a pedagogical model for beginning design that introduces digital fabrication methods through an integrated learning framework. Ripples - a wall sculpture made collectively by all second year architecture and interior design students as a joint project between studio, graphics and shop—exemplifies design practice as a collective activity. In this example, solutions emerge out of interactions among multiple stakeholders through iterative experimentation and optimization. The goal of this essay is to provoke a rethinking of the status-quo pedagogical practices in order to incorporate digital fabrication within existing curricular structures as a core skill for beginning design students, rather than merely as a technology course elected by a few students. Conclusions suggest the relevance to broader contexts of lessons learned from this modest experiment.
Long-Chain Acyl CoA Regulation of Protein Kinase C and Fatty Acid Potentiation of Glucose-Stimulated Insulin Secretion in Clonalβ -Cells1

Pancreatic beta-cells contain protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms that may play a role in insulin secretion. Activity of PKC classes (cPKC, nPKC, aPKC) and their regulation by acyl-CoA derivatives was examined in extracts of clonal pancreatic beta-cells (HIT) by protein phosphorylation. PKC classes were distinguished based on their previously defined cofactor requirements. Down-regulation of PKC by phorbol esters was confirmed by Western blotting and resulted in the complete loss of cPKC activity, partial loss of nPKC activity and preservation of aPKC activity and glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. aPKC activity was potentiated 4- to 8-fold by the CoA esters of myristate, palmitate, and oleate with a half-maximal value of 3 microM. Both oleoyl- and myristol-CoA, but not palmitoyl-CoA, caused inhibition of nPKC activity. Oleoyl-CoA inhibited nPKC activity up to 75% with a half-maximal effect at 10 microM. This value was independent of the concentration of diacylglycerol used. The addition of exogenous oleate or palmitate potentiated glucose-stimulated insulin secretion 2-fold and was unaffected by PMA-induced down-regulation. Stimulation by glucose or glucose and oleate also increased the mass of PKC-zeta found in the particulate fraction. These data are consistent with increased cytosolic long-chain acylCoA-activating aPKC isoforms resulting in stimulation and/or potentiation of glucose-induced insulin secretion.
Reversibly core cross-linked polymeric micelles with pH- and reduction-sensitivities: effects of cross-linking degree on particle stability, drug release kinetics, and anti-tumor efficacy

A doxorubicin-conjugated disulfide cross-linked PEG-b-P[Asp(Hyd-DOX)] micelle drug delivery system was employed in this study to investigate the effects of cross-linking degree on particle stability, pH-dependent drug release, and in vivo anti-tumor efficacy. Cross-linked polymeric micelles demonstrated superior particle stability and slower drug release kinetics compared with the non-cross-linked counterparts in the absence of reducing agents in a cross-linking level-dependent manner. Once the cross-links were cleaved due to the action of dithiothreitol, both cross-linked and non-cross-linked polymeric micelles behaved similarly in terms of stability and drug release. In vitro cytotoxicity of doxorubicin-conjugated micelles was observed to decrease gradually with increasing degree of cross-linking. While both cross-linked and non-cross-linked polymeric micelles caused tumor regression in mice bearing subcutaneous 4T1 breast tumors, polymeric micelles with a 25% cross-linking degree increased the tolerated dose of doxorubicin by 33%. These findings suggest that reversible core cross-linking of polymeric micelles through disulfide linkages is beneficial to the control of drug release and reduction in systemic toxicity caused by doxorubicin.