cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Genetic Determinants of Cancer Susceptibility

Human cancers result from a combination of exposure to carcinogens combined with individual susceptibility. Epidemiologic studies, as well as studies in animal models of cancer, have demonstrated a wide range of responses to carcinogen exposure and it is now clear that common allelic variants within the genome are responsible for this interindividual variation. Identification of specific genes that modify the response to carcinogen exposure has been difficult. However, new approaches in both human and animal studies have improved the likelihood that cancer modifier genes will be identified. Importantly, many of the modifier genes identified in animal models have been shown to modify cancer risk in humans, demonstrating the utility of animal studies. The identification of cancer modifier genes will ultimately lead to the development of new cancer risk models, the detection of individuals at high risk for cancer development, and improved prevention strategies.
IMPLEMENTASI PENDEKATAN PEMBELAJARAN KONTEKSTUAL DALAM PERKULIAHAN BAHASA INGGRIS LANJUTAN SEBAGAI UPAYA PERBAIKAN KESALAHAN KONSEPSI DAN PENINGKATAN HASIL BELAJAR MAHASISWA

The objectives of this action research were to describe the students’ prior knowledge profile, to modify their misconception into scientific concept, to improve their scientific attitude, to improve the quality of learning outcome and to describe responses of 30 students of Administration Management at semester II in academic year 2010/2011 of ASM BSI Jakarta towards the teaching of Advanced English by using contextual approach. The data about prior knowledge profile, misconceptions and learning outcome of the students were collected by using test, while those of scientific attitude by using questionaire method, the students activity by observation, and the students responses by questionaire and interview. The data was analyzed descriptive qualitatively. The findings showed that: (1) at the first cycle: 33.93% of the students’ prior concept was about misconception; the mean of the pre-test was 48.57. After the action was caried out, the misconception became 5.73%. The score of the learning outcome was 73.3. While the score of the students’ scientific attitude was 68.24; After the second cycle, there was 53.51% of the prior knowledge of the students was misconception, while the mean score of the pre-test was 63.3. after the action was conducted, the misconception became 10.40, while the students response towards the teaching was 78.6. Their scientific attitude was about 75.40, while their response to this teaching were very good. Based on this finding it was suggested that lecturers who had problems on the students especially to those who had low achievement, and their scientific attitude could apply the contextual approach to degrade the students misconception. An analysis of the students prior misconception should be done, the result could be used as the basis when designing the teaching program. Key words: contextual teaching and learning, misconception, scientific attitude
Cell mediated immune response in goats after experimental challenge with the virulent Brucella melitensis strain 16M and the reduced virulence strain Rev. 1.

Abstract Brucella melitensis is the etiologic agent of brucellosis in small ruminants and a common cause of disease in humans. While the protective immune response against this pathogen has been well studied in the mouse model, little is known of the immune response triggered by B. melitensis infection in natural hosts. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the caprine immune response over the course of infection with virulent B. melitensis strain 16 M and reduced virulence vaccine strain Rev. 1. Pregnant goats were infected at 11–14 weeks of gestation with 8 × 106 or 8 × 107 CFU of B. melitensis. Changes in granulocyte, monocyte, and mononuclear cell numbers were monitored by flow cytometry. Proliferative and functional responses of CD4+ T cells and WC1+ γδ T cells were also studied. B. melitensis 16 M infection triggered a pro-inflammatory response characterized by increased numbers of granulocytes, monocytes, and lymphocytes. The relative lymphocytosis was comprised of increases in CD4+ but not WC1+ T cell types in most animals. Little proliferative response was observed in Rev. 1-infected goats. Analysis of lymphocyte function suggested a degree of potential CD4+ T cell anergy, with low levels of CD25 expression and unresponsiveness to mitogen stimulation noted post-infection. The components of the protective response elicited by the Rev. 1 vaccine strain remain undefined. The study suggests a potential WC1+ γδ T cell mediated response, with high percentages of γδ T cells found to produce IFN-γ at various time points over the course of Brucella infection.
Variation in DNA methylation of human blood over a 1-year period using the Illumina MethylationEPIC array

Assessing DNA methylation profiles in human blood has become a major focus of epidemiologic inquiry. Understanding variability in CpG-specific DNA methylation over moderate periods of time is a cri...
Factors Affecting Family Presence During Fracture Reduction in the Pediatric Emergency Department

Author(s): Zhang, Albert; Yocum, Regina M.; Repplinger, Michael D.; Broman, Aimee T.; Kim, Michael K. | Abstract: Introduction: Asking family members to leave during invasive procedures has historically been common practice; however, evidence-based recommendations have altered the trend of family presence during pediatric procedures. The aim of this study was to determine factors related to family members’ choice to be present or absent during fracture reductions in a pediatric emergency department (ED), and their satisfaction with that choice.Methods: We administered role-specific, anonymous surveys to a convenience sample of patients’ family members in the ED of a Level I pediatric trauma center. All family members were given a choice of where to be during the procedure.Results: Twenty-five family members of 18 patients completed surveys. Seventeen family members chose to stay in the room. Family member satisfaction with their decision to be inside or outside the room during the procedure (median = very satisfied) was almost uniformly high and not associated with any of the following variables: previous presence during a medical procedure; provider-reported procedure difficulty, or anxiety levels. Family member perception of procedure success (median = extremely well) was also high and not associated with other variables. Location during the procedure was associated with a desire to be in the same location in the future (Fisher’s exact test, p=0.001). Common themes found among family members’ reasons for their location decisions and satisfaction levels were a desire to support the patient, high staff competence, and their right as parents to choose their location.Conclusion: Family members self-select their location during their child’s fracture reduction to high levels of satisfaction, and they considered the ability to choose their location as important.
A Complementary Process to Pauson-Khand-Type Annulation Reactions for the Construction of Fully Substituted Cyclopentenones.

A complementary process to the Pauson–Khand annulation is described that is well suited to forging densely substituted/oxygenated cyclopentenone products (including fully substituted variants). The reaction is thought to proceed through a sequence of metallacycle-mediated bond-forming events that engages an internal alkyne and a β-keto ester in an annulation process that forges two C–C bonds. A variant of this annulation process has also been established that delivers deoxygenated cyclopentenones that lack the allylic tertiary alcohol.
Asymmetric dimethylarginine, erythropoietin resistance, and anemia in CKD

In a recent issue of the Journal of American Society of Nephrology , Yokoro et al . (1) examined the contribution of asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) to anemia of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Based on human and animal studies, the Authors concluded that accumulation of ADMA in erythrocytes worsens anemia. The Authors first measured levels of ADMA in erythrocytes and in plasma from 54 patients with advanced CKD [mean estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) 13.7 mL/min/1.73 m 2 ]. They found that lower hemoglobin concentrations were associated with higher levels of ADMA in erythrocytes but not in plasma.
The Roots of Racial Disparities in Residential Zoning Practice: The Case of Henrico County, Virginia, 1978–2015

This article examines the distribution of conditional rezonings for residential development in Henrico County, Virginia, from 1978 through 2015. It finds that prior to the mid-1990s, racial charact...
Characteristic Functionals for Incompressible Turbulent Flows

The Fourier transform of a finite-dimensional Pdf is the characteristic function, hence contains probabilistic information equivalent to the Pdf/Cdf. The main difference to the Pdfs is its relation to statistical moments, which follow from the characteristic function by differentiation at the origin of the argument space \(\mathcal{N}\).
Stability and rheology of asphalt-emulsion under varying acidic and alkaline levels

Abstract Asphalt-emulsion is a cleaner material in pavement constructions, which can substantially reduce energy consumption and emissions. Stability and rheology are critical issues in the applications of asphalt-emulsion. Asphalt-emulsion CSS-1h, used in this study, is a cationic slow-setting emulsion. Stability and rheology are, to some extent, determined by the interactions of asphalt and water in asphalt-emulsion. The objective of this study was to investigate the interactions of asphalt and water in asphalt-emulsion under different acidic and alkaline levels, which are reflected in the stability and rheological behaviors of CSS-1h. In order to achieve this goal, the original CSS-1h was mixed with the contents of hydrochloric acid (HCl) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solutions and then measured to determine its moisture retention during oven heating for characterizing the emulsification stability under different acidic and alkaline levels. The Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) experiments evaluated the apparent viscosity of asphalt-emulsions and the rutting indicator of their residues. In addition, the microscopic properties of the asphalt-emulsions were characterized using the Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The FTIR analyzed the influence of acidic and alkaline levels on the microscopic properties of CSS-1h using molecular chemistry. The results concluded that the acidic and alkaline levels have significant effects on the functional groups in asphalt-emulsions and their residues, as well as on the interactions of asphalt and water, which in turn affects the stability and rheology of the cationic asphalt-emulsions.
Ytterbium-doped fibre femtosecond laser offers robust operation with deep and precise microsurgery of C. elegans neurons.

Laser microsurgery is a powerful tool for neurobiology, used to ablate cells and sever neurites in-vivo. We compare a relatively new laser source to two well-established designs. Rare-earth-doped mode-locked fibre lasers that produce high power pulses recently gained popularity for industrial uses. Such systems are manufactured to high standards of robustness and low maintenance requirements typical of solid-state lasers. We demonstrate that an Ytterbium-doped fibre femtosecond laser is comparable in precision to a Ti:Sapphire femtosecond laser (1–2 micrometres), but with added operational reliability. Due to the lower pulse energy required to ablate, it is more precise than a solid-state nanosecond laser. Due to reduced scattering of near infrared light, it can lesion deeper (more than 100 micrometres) in tissue. These advantages are not specific to the model system ablated for our demonstration, namely neurites in the nematode C. elegans, but are applicable to other systems and transparent tissue where a precise micron-resolution dissection is required.
Cancer Incidence and Cancer Screening Practices Among a Cohort of Persons Receiving HIV Care in Washington, DC

In this era of effective combination antiretroviral therapy the incidence of AIDS defining cancers (ADCs) is projected to decline while the incidence of certain non-AIDS defining cancers (NADCs) increases. Some of these NADCs are potentially preventable with appropriate cancer screening. We examined cancer incidence, screening eligibility, and receipt of screening among persons actively enrolled in the DC Cohort, a longitudinal observational cohort of PLWH, between 2011 and 2017. Cancer screening eligibility was determined based on age, sex, smoking history and co-morbidity data available and published national guidelines. The incidence rate of NADCs was 12.1 (95% CI 10.7, 13.8) and ADCs 1.6 (95% CI 0.6, 4.6) per 1000 person-years. The most common incident NADCs were breast 2.6 (95% CI 0.5,1 2.1), prostate 2.3 (95% CI 1.2, 4.3), and non-melanoma skin 1.2 (95% CI 0.6, 2.3) incident diagnoses/cases per 1000 person-years. Among cohort sites where receipt of cancer screening was assessed, less than 60% of eligible participants had any ascertained anal HPV, breast, cervical, colorectal, hepatocellular carcinoma, or lung cancer screening. In this cohort of PLWH, there were more incident NADCs versus ADCs in contrast to earlier cohort studies where ADCs predominated. Despite a large eligible population there were low rates of screening. Implementation of cancer screening is an important component of care among PLWH.
Duty, not gratuity: the ethics of social support for people with intellectual disabilities in the United States

Many adults with intellectual disabilities require assistance with activities of daily life and life skills training. This support is provided by professional caregivers. Because of low wages, a sh...
MAGIC: Magnetic Resonant Coupling for Intra-body Communication

This paper proposes MAGIC: magnetic resonant (MR) coupling for intra-body communication between implants and wearables. MAGIC includes not only the hardware-software design of the coupled coils and methods of manipulating the magnetic field for relaying information, but also the ability to raise immediate emergency-related alerts with guaranteed delivery time. MR coupling makes the design of the transmission link robust to channel-related parameters, as the magnetic permeability of skin and muscle is close to that of air. Thus, changes in tissue moisture content and thickness does not impact the design, which is a persistent problem in other approaches for implant communications like RF, ultrasound and galvanic coupling (GC). The paper makes three main contributions: It develops the theory leading to the design of the information relaying coils in MAGIC. It proposes a systems-level design of a communication link that extends up to 50cm with a low expected BER of 10−4. Finally, the paper includes an experimental setup demonstrating how MAGIC operates in air and muscle tissue, as well as a comparison with alternative implant communication technologies, such as classical radio frequency and GC. Results reveal that MAGIC offers instantaneous alerts with up to 5 times lower power consumption compared to other forms of communication.
Ataluren and aminoglycosides stimulate read-through of nonsense codons by orthogonal mechanisms

During protein synthesis, nonsense mutations, resulting in premature stop codons (PSCs), produce truncated, inactive protein products. Such defective gene products give rise to many diseases, including cystic fibrosis, Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), and some cancers. Small molecule nonsense suppressors, known as TRIDs (translational read-through-inducing drugs), stimulate stop codon read-through. The best characterized TRIDs are ataluren, which has been approved by the European Medicines Agency for the treatment of DMD, and G418, a structurally dissimilar aminoglycoside. Previously [1], we applied a highly purified in vitro eukaryotic translation system to demonstrate that both aminoglycosides like G418 and more hydrophobic molecules like ataluren stimulate read-through by direct interaction with the cell's protein synthesis machinery. Our results suggested that they might do so by different mechanisms. Here, we pursue this suggestion through a more-detailed investigation of ataluren and G418 effects on read-through. We find that ataluren stimulation of read-through derives exclusively from its ability to inhibit release factor activity. In contrast, G418 increases functional near-cognate tRNA mispairing with a PSC, resulting from binding to its tight site on the ribosome, with little if any effect on release factor activity. The low toxicity of ataluren suggests that development of new TRIDs exclusively directed toward inhibiting termination should be a priority in combatting PSC diseases. Our results also provide rate measurements of some of the elementary steps during the eukaryotic translation elongation cycle, allowing us to determine how these rates are modified when cognate tRNA is replaced by near-cognate tRNA ± TRIDs.
COVID-19 and Preventing Harm to Vulnerable Children

Although COVID-19 mercifully seems to affect children less severely than adults,2 children are far from immune from the impacts of the virus. Public health orders closing schools and businesses, cancelling events, and keeping children at home have been disruptive and distressing to many children and families. But for children who rely on government entities for protection, care, custody, and services, the effects of the public health orders can be devastating. COVID-19 and the response to it has serious implications for the safety, well-being, and development of these vulnerable children— those within the child welfare, juvenile justice, and special education systems. All three groups consist of children to whom the state has legal obligations.3 4 Additionally, all three groups consist disproportionately of children of color, a reality being brought to the forefront in the context of this pandemic and beyond.
A retrospective study to identify concomitant pathogens in Mycoplasma gallisepticum positive commercial turkeys and the development of a predictive model of Mycoplasma gallisepticum serologic status in California (2008–2019)

SUMMARY Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) is an economically significant pathogen of poultry which results in severe disease especially when complicated by other respiratory pathogens. The objectives of this study, were to establish preliminary baseline data on the respiratory pathogens in MG positive commercial turkey flocks in California and to identify key predictor variables of MG serologic status. The retrospective study analyzed a total of 54 flocks in which MG was confirmed in central California from 2008 to 2019 by California Animal Health and Food Safety laboratories (CAHFS). Of the 54 flocks that were confirmed positive by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), 34 (63%) had positive MG ELISA titers and 20 (37%) were negative. Escherichia coli was the most common pathogen isolated in 13 (24.1%) flocks followed by Bordetella avium, Mycoplasma synoviae, and Ornithobacterium rhinotracheale in 10 (18.5%), 8 (14.8%), and 7 (13%), respectively. The mean age at which flocks were submitted for necropsy to the CAHFS laboratories and confirmed as MG qPCR positive was approximately 15 wk. To assess the main effects on MG serologic status, a stepwise logistic regression model was developed. Of the 6 independent variables examined (age of flock, season, farm size, company, number of concurrent pathogens and year), only age of flock (odds ratio = 1.7, P= 0.002) was determined to be a significant factor in the final model. This study provides preliminary baseline data on the concurrent infectious pathogens in qPCR MG positive commercial turkeys. It also identified potentially critical information as well as the age of detection, which may aid in the implementation of targeted control and prevention strategies.
Abstract 13385: Protective Effect of Beta3-Adrenergic Receptor Deficiency on Diabetic Cardiomyopathy: Reversal of Type 2 Diabetes-Induced Contrast Changes of Cardiac SERCA 2a and Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase

Background: We have shown that diabetes (DM)-induced cardiac dysfunction and β-adrenergic desensitization were prevented in β3-adrenergic receptor (AR) knockout (β3KO) mice. However, the molecular ...
Patient selection for minimally invasive spine surgery

Abstract Minimally invasive approaches to treat lumbar spine disease may carry many benefits over traditional open surgery with comparable patient outcomes. However, this advantage is conferred through appropriate patient selection. Not only do patient-specific anatomic factors influence the use of these techniques, but also surgeon familiarity with approaches. Adult spinal deformity surgery represents an area where minimally invasive spine (MIS) techniques have demonstrated significant impact in appropriately selected patients. Conversely, applying MIS techniques in patients inappropriate for minimally invasive surgery can result in complications, reoperations, and adverse outcomes. This chapter will highlight algorithms to guide patient and technique selection for MIS deformity surgery.
History of Knotweed (Fallopia spp.) Invasiveness

Knotweed (Fallopia spp.) is an herbaceous perennial from East Asia that was brought to Europe and North America and, despite control efforts, subsequently spread aggressively on both continents. Data are available on knotweed's modes of sexual and asexual spread, historical spread, preferred habitat, and ploidy levels. Incomplete information is available on knotweed's current global geographic distribution and genetic diversity. The chemical composition of knotweed leaves and rhizomes has been partially discovered as related to its ability to inhibit growth and germination of neighboring plant communities via phytochemicals. There is still critical information missing. There are currently no studies detailing knotweed male and female fertility. Specifically, information on pollen viability would be important for further understanding sexual reproduction as a vector of spread in knotweed. This information would help managers determine the potential magnitude of knotweed sexual reproduction and the continued spread of diverse hybrid swarms. The potential range of knotweed and its ability to spread into diverse habitats makes studies on knotweed seed and rhizome cold tolerance of utmost importance, yet to date no such studies have been conducted. There is also a lack of genetic information available on knotweed in the upper Midwest. Detailed genetic information, such as ploidy levels and levels of genetic diversity, would answer many questions about knotweed in Minnesota, including understanding its means of spread, what species are present in what densities, and current levels of hybridization. This literature review summarizes current literature on knotweed to better understand its invasiveness and to highlight necessary future research that would benefit and inform knotweed management in the upper Midwest.
Examining Perceptions Toward Self-Determination of People with Disabilities: A Meta-synthesis

People with disabilities develop skills associated with self-determined action when supports and opportunities, aligned to their strengths and values, are provided in the environments in which they live, learn, and work. Researchers have suggested that a complex array of contextual factors impacts how people with disabilities and their key supporters in life perceive self-determination. However, to date, no comprehensive meta-synthesis has examined similarities and differences within and across studies regarding key contextual factors that shape perceptions of self-determination for people with disabilities and their supporters. The purpose of this meta-synthesis was to explore similarities and differences among various stakeholders’ perceptions of self-determination. Additionally, we examined how various contextual factors impact on perceptions. Findings showed that the respondents across the studies generally agreed on the value of self-determination in the lives of people with disabilities. People with disabilities, especially, expressed that self-determination was vital for them to achieve their goals and dreams. Implications for future research and practice are provided to further understand, assess, and utilize discrepant perspectives among stakeholders when implementing and evaluating interventions to promote self-determination.
Primary type specimens of sucking lice (Insecta: Phthiraptera: Anoplura) in the U.S. National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution

An annotated list is presented of the 110 primary types (holotypes, lectotypes, syntypes, or neotypes) of sucking lice (Insecta: Phthiraptera: Anoplura) deposited in the U.S. National Museum of Natural History (USNM), Smithsonian Institution, as of May 2005. Annotations for each taxon are listed alphabetically by specific epithet, and are followed by the original generic assignment and (in parentheses) the current family designation. Next, the author, year of description, and original citation are provided. The primary type held in the USNM (with USNM type number, slide number and other relevant data, if these were assigned), original collection data, current taxonomic assignment (if different from the original designation), and additional taxonomic remarks, if relevant, are then given. Brief information on allotypes and paratypes are included if these are mounted on the same microscope slide as the primary type or if they are otherwise relevant. The types include those of the type species of seven genera (Abrocomaphthirus Durden & Webb, Atopophthirus Kim & Emerson, Haematopinoides Osborn, Latagophthirus Kim & Emerson, Pecaroecus Babcock E however, species names are excluded because these names currently have no nomenclatural standing. A neotype specimen is designated for Haematopinus montanus Osborn, 1896, a taxon which is currently treated as a junior synonym of Linognathoides laeviusculus (Grube, 1851).
Including Community and Family in Indigenous Special Education: A Book Review of School –Parent Collaborations in Indigenous Communities: Providing Services for Children with Disabilities

Globally, Indigenous communities face roadblocks that hinder their success in educational settings. These roadblocks include poverty, lack of social supports, limited access to education, and a high risk for health problems. Indigenous students with special needs face even greater challenges. School –Parent Collaborations in Indigenous Communities: Providing Services for Children with Disabilities provides a comprehensive overview of the context of disability within indigenous experience. The study comprehensively examines the uniqueness of indigenous communities on a global scale, psychological models of reactions to disability, the benefit of multidisciplinary teams in working with schools and families, factors affecting collaboration between indigenous parents of children with disabilities and school professionals, and core values of indigenously attuned collaboration. Manor-Binyamini discusses her pilot study conducted among the Bedouins of Southern Israel to illustrate the ways that special education teachers and personnel engage Bedouin parents in interventions for their children. Rather than focusing solely on cultural sensitivity as a guiding force, the model Manor-Binyamini advocates, “Knowledge in Action” calls for special educators and professionals to be cultural mediators between family and schools. The model has the potential to impact the ways in which special educators work with indigenous communities globally and locally to improve the health and well-being of indigenous students with special needs.
Automatic All Quadrilateral Mesh Adaption through Refinement and Coarsening

This work presents a new approach to conformal all-quadrilateral mesh adaptation. Most current quadrilateral adaptivity techniques rely on mesh refinement or a complete remesh of the domain. In contrast, we introduce a new method that incorporates both conformal refinement and coarsening strategies on an existing mesh of any density or configuration. Given a sizing function, this method modifies the mesh by combining template-based quadrilateral refinement methods with recent developments in localized quadrilateral coarsening and quality improvement into an automated mesh adaptation routine. Implementation details and examples are included.
Data Warehouse Design for E-Commerce Environments

Data warehousing and electronic commerce are two of the most rapidly expanding fields in recent information technologies. In this paper, we discuss the design of data warehouses for e-commerce environments. We discuss requirement analysis, logical design, and aggregation in e-commerce environments. We have collected an extensive set of interesting OLAP queries for e-commerce environments, and classified them into categories. Based on these OLAP queries, we illustrate our design with data warehouse bus architecture, dimension table structures, a base star schema, and an aggregation star schema. We finally present various physical design considerations for implementing the dimensional models. We believe that our collection of OLAP queries and dimensional models would be very useful in developing any real-world data warehouses in e-commerce environments.
Inflammation of the amnion and chorion

Abstract Inflammation of the amnion and chorion was found forty-eight times in one thousand consecutive placentas. Taken as an evidence of infection, its presence indicates that in nearly all cases of intrapartum fever (not due to intercurrent conditions) there has been entrance of bacteria into the uterus. On the other hand, the absence of temperature elevation does not mean that bacterial invasion has not occurred. Intrapartum infection is an indication for acceleration of delivery in the interests of both mother and child; but its presence, as indicated by inflammation of the amnion and chorion, may often be unsuspected in the absence of fever. The increased incidence of inflammation with prolonged labor, vaginal examinations, and especially premature rupture of the membranes confirms previous impressions as to the increased danger of cesarean section under such circumstances, regardless of the presence or not of fever.
Human capital, committee power and legislative outcomes *

This paper presents a model in which legislators use informational asymmetries to engage in rent-seeking behavior. Previous work in the informational and distributive traditions could not explain deviations from the median preference without reference to “committee power”. Integration of these forces demonstrated that legislative outcomes need not correspond to the median preference regardless of the extent to which committee power is present in a legislature. While deviations from the median preference are consistent with committee power, recent empirical evidence suggests that observed deviations in Congress are in fact caused by human capital differentials rather than committee power.
The impact of transvenous lead extraction on tricuspid valve function.

Background Few data exist regarding the effect of transvenous lead extraction (TLE) on tricuspid valve function. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of TLE on the development of postprocedure tricuspid regurgitation (TR). Objective To assess the impact of TLE on tricuspid valve function. Methods A single center retrospective analysis of consecutive patients referred for TLE between June 2006 and November 2011. Patients were included only if they underwent transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) before and after lead extraction (N = 124). Patients were assigned a preprocedure and postprocedure TR score on a continuous scale from 0 to 6 (0 = none, 1 = trace, 2 = mild, 3 = mild/moderate, 4 = moderate, 5 = moderate/severe, and 6 = severe). A clinically significant increase in TR was defined as both (1) an increase in TR score of at least two points, and (2) a postprocedure TR score ≥4 (moderate). Results A total of 124 patients referred for TLE underwent a TTE both before (9 ±16 months) and after lead extraction (4 ± 8 months). A total of 200 leads (1.6 ± 0.8 per patient) were extracted. The mean change in TR score after lead extraction was +0.18 (95% confidence interval [CI] −0.03 to 0.39, P = 0.11). A clinically significant increase in TR occurred in 7/124 (5.6% [CI 2.3–11.3%]) patients. Age ≥75 (+0.45, [CI 0.07–0.84, P = 0.02]), removal of ≥2 leads (+0.40 [CI 0–0.81, P = 0.05]), and powered sheath-assisted extraction (+0.34 [CI 0.05–0.62, P = 0.02]) were significantly associated with an increase in TR score. Conclusion TLE is rarely associated with the development of clinically significant TR. In our cohort, patient age ≥75 years, pacemaker as opposed to ICD, and removal of ≥2 leads predicted worsening TR.
From Rational to Creative Action: Recasting Our Theories of Entrepreneurship

In this paper, we propose that we will not be able to develop compelling explanations of entrepreneurial activity until we make a fundamental adjustment to our underlying assumptions of human action, replacing our reliance upon a rational actor model of human behavior with a model that accommodates actors' abilities to act creatively. By developing and deploying a model of creative action, we can open up new avenues of fruitful inquiry for scholars of entrepreneurship.
Volatilization of polonium from bismuth oxide

The volatilization of polonium from bismuth oxide was measured by a transport method between 580°C and 780°C. The apparent vapor pressure, π, which is deffined as the observed partial pressure of polonium divided by the mole fraction of polonium in bismuth oxide was found to be represented by log π (atm) = −15·51 × 103T + 11·83 over a mole fraction range of polonium between 10−8 to 10−5. A comparison is made of the measured apparent vapour pressure with the partial pressure of polonium in the polonium-bismuth system and the vapour pressure of pure polonium metal.
Segregation of rat chromosomes in somatic cell hybrids between rat cells and HT 1080 human fibrosarcoma cells.

We produced somatic cell hybrids between HT 1080-6TG human fibrosarcoma cells and either rat white blood cells (WBC) or cells directly derived from rat spleen. Karyologic and isozyme analyses of hybrid cells indicated that they preferentially lose rat chromosomes. Hypoxanthine-aminopterine thymidine-selected hybrid clones expressing rat hypoxanthine phosphoribosyltransferase (HPRT), glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), and phosphoglycerate kinase (PGK) and containing the rat X chromosome were counterselected in a medium containing 30 μg/ml of 6-thioguanine. Concordant loss of the rat X chromosome and of the expression of rat HPRT and G6PD was observed in the hybrid clones.
Mechanisms of Bone Resorption and New Bone Formation in Spondyloarthropathies

Spondyloarthropathies (SpA) share clinical features such as sacroiliitis, axial immobility, and peripheral arthropathies. They also share a strong association with human leukocyte antigen-B27, implicating T cells and antigen-presenting cells in the disease process. Inflammation seems to underlie the pathogenesis of SpA, particularly in the axial skeleton and entheses. Pathologic bone loss and formation occur simultaneously in inflamed regions, suggesting an inflammation-induced dysregulation of osteoclast and osteoblast activity. Pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) appear to be central to the disease, because TNFα blockade has been shown to effectively improve clinical outcome. Other cytokines such as transforming growth factor-beta, interferon-gamma (IFNγ), and interleukin-18 are also likely to be important in SpA. Activated T cells have been shown to produce cytokines such as IFNγ and receptor activator of nuclear-factorkappaB ligand, with direct effects on osteoclastogenesis. The dual role of T cells in immunobiology and skeletal biology provides a possible link between human leukocyte antigen-B27, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and bone cells in SpA.
Self-organization and the dynamical nature of ventricular fibrillation.

This article reviews recent data supporting the conjecture that, in the structurally and electrophysiologically normal heart, cardiac fibrillation is not a totally random phenomenon. Experimental and numerical studies based on the theory of excitable media suggest that fibrillation in the mammalian ventricles is the result of self-organized three-dimensional (3-D) electrical rotors giving rise to scroll waves that move continuously (i.e., drift) throughout the heart at varying speeds. A brief review of studies on the dynamics of rotors in two-dimensional (2-D) and 3-D excitable media is presented with emphasis on the experimental demonstration of such dynamics in cardiac muscle of various species. The discussion is centered on rotor dynamics in the presence and the absence of structural heterogeneities, and in the phenomena of drifting and anchoring, which in the electrocardiogram (ECG) may manifest as life-threatening cardiac rhythm disturbances. For instance, in the rabbit heart, a single electrical rotor that drifts rapidly throughout the ventricles gives rise to complex patterns of excitation. In the ECG such patterns are indistinguishable from ventricular fibrillation. On the other hand, a rotor that anchors to a discontinuity or defect in the muscle (e.g., a scar, a large artery or a bundle of connective tissue) may result in stationary rotating activity, which in the ECG is manifested as a form of so-called "monomorphic" ventricular tachycardia. More recent data show that ventricular fibrillation occurs in mammals irrespective of size or species. While in small hearts, such as those of mice and rabbits, a single drifting or meandering rotor can result in fibrillation, in larger hearts, such as the sheep and possibly the human, fibrillation occurs in the form of a relatively small number of coexisting but short-lived rotors. Overall, the work discussed here has paved the way for a better understanding of the mechanisms of fibrillation in the normal, as well as diseased human heart. (c) 1998 American Institute of Physics.
Compensatory sprouting of uninjured magnocellular neurosecretory axons in the rat neural lobe following unilateral hypothalamic lesion

Axonal sprouting of intact neurons of the magnocellular neurosecretory system was investigated using a unilateral hypothalamic knife cut of the hypothalamoneurohypophysial tract to partially denervate the rat neural lobe (NL). Densitometric, morphometric, ultrastructural, and metabolic measures were utilized to demonstrate the compensatory response to denervation in this system. Densitometric analysis revealed a transient reduction in the intensity of vasopressin staining in the NL at 10 days postsurgery (PS) with a subsequent recovery by 20 days PS. There was a comparable initial reduction in the cross-sectional area of the NL followed by a more gradual recovery to normal by 90 days PS. Ultrastructural investigation revealed a reduction in total axon number in the NL at 10 days PS similar to the declines in vasopressin immunoreactivity and size of the NL. A subsequent partial recovery of axon number occurred, paralleling the return to normal NL size between 30 and 90 days PS. Hypertrophy of both somata and cell nuclei of magnocellular neurons in the supraoptic and paraventricular hypothalamic nuclei contralateral to the lesion was also apparent during this period. Daily measurements of urine osmolality revealed an initial transient hypoosmolality followed by a chronic hyperosmolality which persisted throughout the 90 day postsurgical period. There was a concomitant chronic decrease in both daily drinking and urine excretion volumes which began immediately following surgery. These results suggest that intact, contralateral magnocellular vasopressinergic efferents undergo compensatory sprouting as a result of partial denervation of the NL in the absence of a functional deficit in vasopressin.
Noninvasive transcranial direct current stimulation over the left prefrontal cortex facilitates cognitive flexibility in tool use

Recent neuroscience evidence suggests that some higher-order tasks might benefit from a reduction in sensory filtering associated with low levels of cognitive control. Guided by neuroimaging findings, we hypothesized that cathodal (inhibitory) transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) will facilitate performance in a flexible use generation task. Participants saw pictures of artifacts and generated aloud either the object's common use or an uncommon use for it, while receiving cathodal tDCS (1.5mA) either over left or right PFC, or sham stimulation. A forward digit span task served as a negative control for potential general effects of stimulation. Analysis of voice-onset reaction times and number of responses generated showed significant facilitative effects of left PFC stimulation for the uncommon, but not the common use generation task and no effects of stimulation on the control task. The results support the hypothesis that certain tasks may benefit from a state of diminished cognitive control.
Broom rusts of balsam fir and black spruce in Newfoundland

The broom rusts of balsam fir and black spruce occur sporadically throughout the island of Newfoundland, but they are not a serious threat to the forests. The incidence and intensity of the rusts vary, but no tree mortality can be attributed to the diseases. The average number of brooms per tree was higher in black spruce than in balsam fir. Also, more brooms occurred on brandies than on tree trunks. Height and diameter growth was less in infected trees than in uninfected trees of both the species.
Three-Dimensional Root Phenotyping with a Novel Imaging and Software Platform

A novel imaging and software platform was developed for the high-throughput phenotyping of three-dimensional root traits during seedling development. To demonstrate the platform’s capacity, plants of two rice ( Oryza sativa ) genotypes, Azucena and IR64, were grown in a transparent gellan gum system and imaged daily for 10 d. Rotational image sequences consisting of 40 two-dimensional images were captured using an optically corrected digital imaging system. Three-dimensional root reconstructions were generated and analyzed using a custom-designed software, RootReader3D. Using the automated and interactive capabilities of RootReader3D, five rice root types were classified and 27 phenotypic root traits were measured to characterize these two genotypes. Where possible, measurements from the three-dimensional platform were validated and were highly correlated with conventional two-dimensional measurements. When comparing gellan gum-grown plants with those grown under hydroponic and sand culture, significant differences were detected in morphological root traits ( P
Spike activity recorded from the organ of Corti

During microelectrode passes through the inner hair cell region of the organ of Corti, spike activity is frequently encountered. We have obtained both extracellular and intracellular records from afferent terminals or dendrites. The response characteristics of all-or-none spike trains mimic those recorded from primary auditory axons. EPSPs may be identified, either associated with the spikes or in the absence of a spike. Inferences may be made about the nature of neurotransmitter quantum release from inner hair cells.
Spanish Academic Language Proficiency: The Case of Bilingual Education Teachers in the US

AbstractEmpirical evidence has been forthcoming that supports the sustained use of native language instruction for Spanish language origin children in the US. This paper argues that prospective bilingual education teachers are not generally afforded the type of Spanish language development opportunities needed to provide sustained native language instruction characterizing the most effective program models. Rather, the academic Spanish language development opportunities they do receive are aimed primarily at serving the needs of early-exit transitional bilingual education programs, the most common and least effective type of bilingual program in the US.
Treatment of Myasthenia Gravis

Effective therapy for the individual MG patient rests on balancing the risks and benefits of a wide range of therapeutic options. These risks not only include the dangers of severe weakness, limitations on employment, and complications of treatment but access to medications based on insurance company policies or government-set limitations. The typical patient who does not respond to cholinesterase inhibitor treatment will require prednisone and, if poorly responsive or with significant adverse effects, will need immunosuppressive therapy with azathioprine, tacrolimus, or mycophenolate. The treatment-resistant patient who fails corticosteroids and an immunosuppressive may benefit from a switch to another immunosuppressive or eculizumab. Despite the increasing number of excellently performed clinical trials, practice remains compromised by a limited evidence base, but the development of national guidelines for treatment has the promise of guiding clinicians not familiar with this rare disease to care for patients in a logical manner.
Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid from immature rats with hyperoxia-induced airway remodeling is mitogenic for airway smooth muscle.

We previously demonstrated that hyperoxia-exposed immature rats develop airway smooth muscle layer thickening; this remodeling appears partially attributable to smooth muscle hyperplasia. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that excess mitogenic activity for airway smooth muscle cells is present within the lungs of hyperoxia-exposed immature rats. We assessed the proliferative effect of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid from air- and O2-exposed animals on cultured rat tracheal smooth muscle cells. BAL fluids from air- or O2-exposed immature rats increased DNA synthesis ([3H]-thymidine incorporation at 24 h of incubation) and cell number (compared with DMEM-treated control cells, at 2 days of incubation), but BAL fluid from O2-exposed animals had significantly greater mitogenic effects. This excess mitogenic activity was lipid inextractable and was ablated by trypsin digestion, indicating that at least one polypeptide growth factor was responsible; molecular sieve fractionation demonstrated a molecula...
Glutamatergic function in the resting awake human brain is supported by uniformly high oxidative energy

Rodent 13C magnetic resonance spectroscopy studies show that glutamatergic signaling requires high oxidative energy in the awake resting state and allowed calibration of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) signal in terms of energy relative to the resting energy. Here, we derived energy used for glutamatergic signaling in the awake resting human. We analyzed human data of electroencephalography (EEG), positron emission tomography (PET) maps of oxygen (CMRO2) and glucose (CMRglc) utilization, and calibrated fMRI from a variety of experimental conditions. CMRglc and EEG in the visual cortex were tightly coupled over several conditions, showing that the oxidative demand for signaling was four times greater than the demand for nonsignaling events in the awake state. Variations of CMRO2 and CMRglc from gray-matter regions and networks were within ±10% of means, suggesting that most areas required similar energy for ubiquitously high resting activity. Human calibrated fMRI results suggest that changes of fMRI signal in cognitive studies contribute at most ±10% CMRO2 changes from rest. The PET data of sleep, vegetative state, and anesthesia show metabolic reductions from rest, uniformly >20% across, indicating no region is selectively reduced when consciousness is lost. Future clinical investigations will benefit from using quantitative metabolic measures.
Instructional Leadership: An Informal Approach.

The leadership strategies discussed by this writer can be used by the principal in informal, day-to-day activities. They are intended to complement formal program efforts.