cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Which treatments improve fatigue and quality of life in Multiple Sclerosis? Evidence appraisal and development of visual interactive evidence maps (P5.2-088)

Objective: To determine efficacy of MS fatigue interventions and create Web-based, interactive evidence maps for the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) describing existing research, efficacy, and ongoing trials. Background: Fatigue affects 50 to 80% of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), with many reporting fatigue as the most troubling symptom. Despite a range of interventions, little is known regarding efficacy for fatigue (including comparative efficacy across modalities) and quality of life (QOL). Design/Methods: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of MS fatigue treatments. A comprehensive literature search identified potential articles published from 1987 forward. Clinicaltrials.gov and PCORI’s website were searched to identify ongoing research. For randomized controlled trials (RCTs), we performed meta-analysis of efficacy for fatigue and QOL; adverse effect information was also extracted. Strength of evidence (SOE) was appraised using modified criteria from the AHRQ evidence-based practice system. We created 3 evidence maps using HTML, SVG and JavaScript. Results: 282 studies met inclusion criteria. All studies (categorized by design and intervention type) were summarized in Map 1. Map 2 summarizes evidence from 45 RCTs comparing treatments to inactive control. Four interventions (aquatic exercise, combination exercise, supervised aerobic exercise, fatigue self-management) improved both fatigue and QOL. Aquatic exercise reduced fatigue the most (Hedges g=1.66, moderate SOE). Only 1 pharmacologic intervention (paroxetine) improved fatigue, but had insufficient evidence regarding QOL. Map 3 summarizes evidence from 15 RCTs comparing 2 or more active treatments. Sertraline, cognitive behavioral therapy and balance training demonstrated efficacy for fatigue (low to moderate SOE). Conclusions: Absence of sufficient evidence for amantadine, modafinil, and methylphenidate was striking given common clinical use and potential for adverse effects. Our findings suggest increased focus on exercise and behavioral/educational interventions is warranted. Interactive visual evidence maps translate evidence-based medicine into a usable tool which can support informed, shared decision-making for policymakers, clinicians, and patients. Disclosure: Dr. Tsou has nothing to disclose. Dr. Treadwell has nothing to disclose. Dr. Erinoff has nothing to disclose. Dr. Schoelles has nothing to disclose.
Equipment Used for Measuring Activity

Because measurements are taken with instruments, it is paramount that we review presently available devices for the measurement of activity. Emphasis will be given to human ambulatory activity because such measurements have the greatest clinical relevance in that they can be obtained longitudinally from the person’s natural environment. Selected devices used in animal research will also be reviewed.
The role of intravenous immunoglobulin in the treatment and prevention of neonatal bacterial infection

N ewborn infants are uniquely susceptible to overwhelming bacterial infection. The incidence of such infections ranges from 1 to 10 per 1,000 live births, with preterm infants having significantly higher rates than term newborns.‘-5 The mortality rate from early-onset bacterial infection in the neonate currently ranges between 15% and 30% and morbidity in survivors is high. When meningitis occurs, serious sequelae occur in 30% to 50% of survivors.” Thus, despite the extensive supportive care provided in neonatal intensive care units and the use of potent new antimicrobial agents, we continue to lose far too many neonates to bacterial infection. This has led a number of investigators to explore the value of various forms of immunotherapy in the treatment and prophylaxis of neonatal infection.
Day care for the child with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and the child of the drug-abusing mother.

In time, history may very well show that in this nation the decade of the 1980s was one of the most disastrous periods of all time for children, especially urban poor children. Not only did the number of children living in poverty increase dramatically, but two new agents, one viral and the other chemical, were introduced into urban disadvantaged communities. These two agents have had serious effects on the lives, the growth and development, indeed on the very survival of large numbers of children living in our major cities. The two agents are the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), and the chemical agent, cocaine, or its less expensive version, crack. Both AIDS and drug addiction, especially to cocaine, have had profound effects on the lives of many families and children. The affected children, who are now entering the day-care systems of our cities, pose new problems and dilemmas for the physicians, teachers, and administrators responsible for these programs. AIDS By August 1991 more than 3000 children with AIDS had been reported to the Centers for Disease Control.1 Most were infected in the perinatal period by transmission of HIV from an infected mother. They are, for the most part, of African-American or Hispanic ethnicity. They are both disadvantaged and poor. While children with AIDS can be found in virtually all regions of the nation, especially in the urban setting, pediatric AIDS continues to cluster in four areas: New York, New Jersey, Florida, and California. Because of maternal transmission of HIV antibody, all infants of infected pregnant women will be antibody positive at birth, but only about 30% of these infants will in fact develop AIDS.
c-Abl stabilizes p73 by a phosphorylation-augmented interaction.

The proapoptotic function of c-Abl is in part mediated by its functional interaction with p73, a p53 homologue. Although it has been shown that c-Abl-mediated p73 activation in response to genotoxic stress is associated with an increase of p73 protein levels, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. We show here that c-Abl increases the cellular p73 abundance through a mode of posttranslational regulation. Analogous to its functional activation of p73, the kinase activity is essential for c-Abl to up-regulate p73 protein levels. Analysis of phosphorylation-resistant mutants of p73 reveals that the effect of c-Abl is mediated by its direct phosphorylation on the p73 protein. Consequence to the phosphorylation is a marked increase of the association between c-Abl and p73 via the binding of tyrosine-phosphorylated p73 to the c-Abl Src homology 2 (SH2) domain. Of functional importance of this phosphorylation-induced interaction in p73 stabilization is the demonstration that expression of a c-Abl SH2 domain peptide, which impedes phosphorylation-dependent association, results in an almost complete abrogation of c-Abl-dependent p73 accumulation. Importantly, expression of the c-Abl SH2 domain peptide also leads to an efficient inhibition of cisplatin-induced accumulation of endogenous p73, highlighting the biological significance. In keeping with its retained phosphorylation sites, the NH2-terminal truncated (ΔN) isoforms of p73, which are antiapoptotic, are also phosphorylated and stabilized by c-Abl, suggesting a possibility that c-Abl contributes to either pro- or antiapoptotic process depending on the expression profile of p73 isoforms.
Symbiotic bacterial metabolites regulate GI barrier function via PXR and TLR4 (MUC4P.852)

Intestinal microbial metabolites affect mucosal integrity through incompletely characterized mechanisms. Here we identify microbial specific indoles that regulate intestinal barrier function through the xenobiotic sensor, pregnane X receptor (PXR). Indole 3-propionic acid (IPA), in the context of indole, serves as a ligand for PXR and down-regulates enterocyte TNF-α while up-regulating junctional protein-coding mRNAs. Pxr-/- mice exhibit a distinctly “leaky” gut physiology coupled with up-regulation of the Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling pathway. These defects in the epithelial barrier are corrected in Pxr-/-/Tlr4-/- double-knockout mice. To validate that IPA drives the anti-inflammatory response directly via PXR, we exposed intestinal commensal-depleted Pxr+/+ and Pxr-/- mice to live (IPA-producing) or heat-killed (non-IPA producing) C. sporogenes preceding indomethacin exposure (toxic small intestinal injury model). There was a significant reduction in histologic injury and mucosal myeloperoxidase (MPO) enzyme activity. The intestinal mucosa exposed to live (as opposed to heat-killed) C. sporogenes had significant induction of PXR target gene (Ugt1a1). These effects were absent in Pxr-/- mice. Our results demonstrate that a direct chemical communication between the intestinal symbionts and PXR regulates mucosal integrity through a pathway which involves luminal sensing and signaling by TLR4.
MDCT of complications and common postoperative findings following penetrating torso trauma

Victims of penetrating torso trauma often present with findings that necessitate emergent exploratory laparotomy, precluding scanning with multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) until the postoperative period. This article reviews the wide range of complications as well as expected findings that may be encountered at MDCT performed postoperatively. Little has been written to guide the radiologist in interpreting these often complex and potentially confusing studies.
Genetic Animal Models of Autism Based on Shank/ Mutation Molecules to Potential Therapeutics (I4-1.008)

OBJECTIVE: To create novel, genetically accurate genetic mouse models of autism and intellectual disability that will allow us to explore molecular, cellular, and circuit-level pathophysiology of these disorders. BACKGROUND: The Shank3 gene encodes a scaffolding protein that anchors multiple elements of the postsynaptic density at central synapses. Human genetic studies have identified mutations and deletions of the SHANK3 gene as a clear genetic cause of autism and intellectual disability. Thus, novel mutant mouse models of autism have been created based on these human mutations. Our studies of such genetic animal models of autism based on Shank3 mutations have led to significant advances in pathophysiology and treatment target identification in this subset of autism. DESIGN/METHODS: We have created multiple different genetic animal models of autism using standard genetic approaches. We describe behavioral, electrophysiological, biochemical, and morphological abnormalities in these mouse models in an effort to understand what is wrong with the brain as a result of these mutations and how this alteration in brain function may be fixed. RESULTS: Genetic animal models based on Shank3 mutations exhibit behavioral abnormalities of relevance ot autism spectrum disorders as well as associated features such as intellectual disability. Electrophysiological studies identify specific alterations in synaptic function that can be targeted to treat behavioral abnormalities in preclinical studies using the very same models. Biochemical analysis of synaptosome and postsynaptic density preparations identify molecular abnormalities that may also be targeted by potential therapeutics. CONCLUSIONS: Shank3 mutations alter synaptic function, plasticity, biochemistry and behaviors. These findings point to potential therapeutic targets for this subset of autism and intellectual disability that can be tested in future studies in preclinical studies that we hope will translate into clinical treatments in the future. Study Supported by: NIMH, NICHD, Autism Speaks, Autism Science Foundation, The Hartwell Foundation, BRAINS for Autism, and private funding sources. Disclosure: Dr. Powell has nothing to disclose.
Expression of the peripheral benzodiazepine receptor is decreased in skin cancers in comparison with normal skin.

Summary Background The peripheral benzodiazepine receptor (PBR) is an 18-kDa protein receptor mainly found on the outer mitochondrial membrane of cells. The PBR plays a role in several cellular functions including haem synthesis, steroidogenesis, DNA synthesis, cell growth and differentiation, and apoptosis. PBR expression in normal skin correlates with proliferating, secretory and differentiated cellular structures. Increased or aberrant expression of PBR has been associated with aggressive behaviour in several tumour types including ovarian, colon and breast adenocarcinomas and glioblastoma. Objectives To determine whether changes in normal PBR distribution would be useful as markers for skin cancers or possible target sites for therapies such as photodynamic therapy (PDT), we used immunohistochemistry to evaluate PBR expression and distribution in normal and photodamaged skin (actinic keratoses), skin cancers (in situ and invasive squamous cell carcinomas and superficial, nodular, morphoeiform and mixed pattern basal cell carcinomas) and several benign epithelial proliferations. Methods A rabbit polyclonal antibody to a synthetic peptide fragment of the PBR was developed and characterized by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and Western blot analysis. The antibody was used to stain formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissue samples (n = 157) by a routine avidin–biotin immunohistochemical technique. Sections were evaluated for antibody localization, distribution (0–4+) and reaction intensity (negative to strong). Results Normal skin stained with a strong homogeneous positive reaction (3–4+) in the spinous and granular layers (with a gradient corresponding to increasing differentiation), the pilosebaceous units, eccrine gland ducts, endothelial cells and pilar muscle. In cutaneous neoplasms and other skin diseases, a heterogeneous pattern (0–4+) of PBR expression at lower intensity was seen depending on tumour type and degree of differentiation. PBR expression was greatest in well-differentiated tumours, synonymous with the PBR expression gradient seen in normal skin; and least in poorly differentiated and infiltrative tumour types. Conclusions The haem biosynthetic pathway has been harnessed for PDT of skin carcinomas by application of exogenous aminolaevulinic acid to generate the endogenous photosensitizer protoporphyrin IX (PpIX). Owing to the role of PBR as a transporter of haem precursors in haem synthesis, PBR density and distribution in skin cancers could be a predictor of the capacity for PpIX production and subsequent response to PDT in skin cancers.
Search for sterile neutrinos with a radioactive source at Daya Bay

The far site detector complex of the Daya Bay reactor experiment is proposed as a location to search for sterile neutrinos with ≥eV mass. Antineutrinos from a 500 kCi ^(144)Ce-^(144)Pr β-decay source (ΔQ=2.996 MeV) would be detected by four identical 20-ton antineutrino targets. The site layout allows flexible source placement; several specific source locations are discussed. In one year, the 3+1 sterile neutrino hypothesis can be tested at essentially the full suggested range of the parameters Δm^2_(new) and sin⁡^22θ_(new) (90% C.L.). The backgrounds from six nuclear reactors at ≥1.6 km distance are shown to be manageable. Advantages of performing the experiment at the Daya Bay far site are described.
Nitric acid-induced surface disordering on ice

We examined the interaction of HNO3 with water ice for partial pressures 2 × 10−8 Torr to 1 × 10−5 Torr and at temperatures from 216 to 256 K using (i) the surface-specific technique ellipsometry and (ii) a coated wall flow tube reactor, both coupled with chemical ionization mass spectrometry detection of HNO3 in the gas phase. Our ellipsometry results show that exposure to HNO3 induces surface disordering on ice at a range of environmentally relevant temperatures and HNO3 partial pressures, particularly in the vicinity of the boundary between the ice and the HNO3·3H2O phases. The coated wall flow tube studies indicate that the nature of HNO3 uptake changes from reversible adsorption to a continuous flux of HNO3 into the bulk in the presence of a disordered interfacial layer. These results have implications for atmospheric chemistry in the upper troposphere and in polar regions.
High-dose melphalan and stem cell transplantation for patients with AL amyloidosis: trends in treatment-related mortality over the past 17 years at a single referral center.

To the editor: We recently reported the outcomes of 421 consecutive patients with immunoglobulin light chain (AL) amyloidosis treated with high-dose melphalan and autologous stem cell transplantation (HDM/SCT)[1][1] from July 1994 through December 2008. Median survival was 6.3 years and the
Maintaining energy homeostasis is an essential component of WldS-mediated axon protection

Wld(S) mutation protects axons from degeneration in diverse experimental models of neurological disorders, suggesting that the mutation might act on a key step shared by different axon degeneration pathways. Here we test the hypothesis that Wld(S) protects axons by preventing energy deficiency commonly encountered in many diseases. We subjected compartmentally cultured, mouse cortical axons to energy deprivation with 6mM azide and zero glucose. In wild-type (WT) culture, the treatment, which reduced axon ATP level ([ATP]axon) by 65%, caused immediate axon depolarization followed by gradual free calcium accumulation and subsequent irreversible axon damage. The calcium accumulation resulted from calcium influx partially via L-type voltage-gated calcium channel (L-VGCC). Blocking L-VGCC with nimodipine reduced calcium accumulation and protected axons. Without altering baseline [ATP]axon, the presence of Wld(S) mutation significantly reduced the axon ATP loss and depolarization, restrained the subsequent calcium accumulation, and protected axons against energy deprivation. Wld(S) neurons possessed higher than normal nicotinamide mononucleotide adenylyltransferase (NMNAT) activity. The intrinsic Wld(S) NMNAT activity was required for the Wld(S)-mediated energy preservation and axon protection during but not prior to energy deprivation. NMNAT catalyzes the reversible reaction that produces nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) from nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN). Interestingly, preventing the production of NAD from NMN with FK866 increased [ATP]axon and protected axons from energy deprivation. These results indicate that the Wld(S) mutation depends on its intrinsic Wld(S) NMNAT activity and the subsequent increase in axon ATP but not NAD to protect axons, implicating a novel role of Wld(S) NMNAT in axon bioenergetics and protection.
The Eye As A Detector

When our eyes follow an object that moves in space, a number of very complex control systems operate in order to maintain a sharp image at a specific retinal location while keeping the overall retinal illumination more or less constant. In the eye movement control system, it is the distance between retinal image (or area of interest in this image) and the fovea that is minimized. Therefore, the object we fixate with our eyes is always imaged onto that part of the retina with the highest visual acuity. In the pupillary control system, it is the average light level that is measured and kept within comfortable limits by changing the pupil diameter . Finally, in the accommodation control system, certain image errors are evaluated (presently, we do not know exactly which ones) and reduce(' by changing the lens power. In all these control systems, the retina plays a crucial role as the first stage of the error detector. However, the retina is a far more complex structure than the familiar photo-sensitive surfaces in physical light detectors. There are relay stations (bipolar cells, ganglion cells) in each signal channel between a photoreceptor and optic nerve fiber, and abundant anatomical and physiological evidence exists for interactions between signal channels at various levels in the retina (horizontal cells, amacrine cells). These facts have to be kept in mind whenever detector properties of the eye are discussed. Another complication arises from the fact that we can never define the output of the system exactly. In a photocell it would be a single variable, for example, the cathode photocurrent. In the human eye, it is an already coded signal that is transmitted over approximately 10 optic nerve fibers to higher centers of the central nervous system. It is impossible at the pre-sent time to monitor simultapeously signals transmitted over large numbers of optic nerve fibers.© (1971) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Silicon epitaxial growth using dichlorosilane

This paper describes the results obtained growing silicon epitaxial structures in a horizontal reactor using dichlorosilane as the silicon source material. The growth rate dependence upon temperature and dichlorosilane flux has been obtained for rates ranging from 1 μm/min to 20 μm/min for all major crystal orientations.
Reaction of certain cytoplasmic inclusions to vital dyes and their relation to mitochondria and Golgi apparatus in the flagellate Peranema trichophorum

Two types of cytoplasmic inclusions, differing in reactions to vital dyes and to osmic fixation and impregnation have been demonstrated in Peranema trichophorum. The mitochondria are rod-like and lie in more or less spiral rows, forming a single layer beneath the periplast. They are stained supravitally with Janus green, but not with neutral red. They may be demonstrated by staining in iron hematoxylin after Mann-Kopsch fixation. They are also blackened in prolonged osmic impregnation, but are bleached readily with hydrogen peroxide. The small spherical osmiophilic inclusions are scattered in distribution, although sometimes more numerous in the anterior third of the organism. These bodies are stainable supravitally with neutral red, neutral violet, and brilliant cresyl blue. They are densely blackened in osmic impregnation, and are not bleached in the usual treatment with hydrogen peroxide. They are not however, demonstrated by Mann-Kopsch fixation and iron hematoxylin. After being stained supravitally with neutral red, these inclusions may be blackened under direct observation by exposure to osmic vapor in hanging-drop preparations.
Fundamental Measurements in Online Polymerization Reaction Monitoring and Control with a Focus on ACOMP

Fundamental measurements in online polymerization reaction monitoring and control seek to avoid empirical and inferential models in data interpretation. One such approach making use of multiple detectors is automatic continuous online monitoring of polymerization reactions (ACOMP), wherein a continuous reactor stream is automatically, continuously diluted and conditioned to where measurements reflect intrinsic particle properties and not the interactions that can dominate measurements in concentrated media. Examples where dilute regime measurements are needed include static and dynamic light scattering, and reduced viscosity. This review focuses on ACOMP to illustrate a number of reaction contexts where fundamental measurements are used to gain a comprehensive picture of reaction characteristics.
Zur Korrosion von unlegiertem Stahl und Aluminium in wäßrigen Lösungen von Ammoniak und Kohlensäure — 1. Mitteilung: Korrosionsprodukte

Bei Korrosionsversuchen mit Reineisen oder St 33 – 1 (unlegiert, unberuhigt) und Al 99,9 oder Al-Mg 1,5 in wasrigen Losungen von 130 g/lNH3 + 80 g/lCO2 be 60°C wurden 2 neue Korrosionsprodukte entdeckt. Bei Stahl 33–l (Reineisen) (NH4)2Fe2(OH)4(CO3)2 · H2O und bei Al 99,9 (Al-Mg 1,5) NH4Fe2(HO)4(Co3)2 · H2O. Beide Verbindungen wurden auch synthetisiert und an Hand von Rontgenogrammen, IR-Spektren, Thermogrammen und chemischer Analyse mit Literaturwerten verglichen, Fur NH4Al(OH)4CO3 · H2O wurde die Elementarzelle berechnet, die je nach Herstellungsart leicht variiert. Typisch fur das Korrosionsprodukt ist a = 6,64 A; b = 11,99 A; c = 5,76 A, orthorhombisch, Aspekt C*c*, order a = 13,29 A; c* = 11,99 A hexagonal (pseudohexagonal?). Die gemessene Dichte ist 2,03g · cm−3, die berechnete 2,29g · cm−3 fur z = 4. Das Infrarotspektrum wurde zum Teil neu zugeordnet. Zwischen Aluminiummetall und NH4Al(OH)2CO3 · H2O sind Epitaxiebeziehungen moglich, die im Verhaltnis zu Stahl besseren Korrosionswiderstand in der Pruflosung erklaren konnten.
Involvement of Phosphorylation of Adenosine 5′-Monophosphate-Activated Protein Kinase in PTTH-Stimulated Ecdysteroidogenesis in Prothoracic Glands of the Silkworm, Bombyx mori

In this study, we investigated inhibition of the phosphorylation of adenosine 5′-monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) by prothoracicotropic hormone (PTTH) in prothoracic glands of the silkworm, Bombyx mori. We found that treatment with PTTH in vitro inhibited AMPK phosphorylation in time- and dose-dependent manners, as seen on Western blots of glandular lysates probed with antibody directed against AMPKα phosphorylated at Thr172. Moreover, in vitro inhibition of AMPK phosphorylation by PTTH was also verified by in vivo experiments: injection of PTTH into day 7 last instar larvae greatly inhibited glandular AMPK phosphorylation. PTTH-inhibited AMPK phosphorylation appeared to be partially reversed by treatment with LY294002, indicating involvement of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling. A chemical activator of AMPK (5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide-1-β-d-ribofuranoside, AICAR) increased both basal and PTTH-inhibited AMPK phosphorylation. Treatment with AICAR also inhibited PTTH-stimulated ecdysteroidogenesis of prothoracic glands. The mechanism underlying inhibition of PTTH-stimulated ecdysteroidogenesis by AICAR was further investigated by determining the phosphorylation of eIF4E-binding protein (4E-BP) and p70 ribosomal protein S6 kinase (S6K), two known downstream signaling targets of the target of rapamycin complex 1 (TORC1). Upon treatment with AICAR, decreases in PTTH-stimulated phosphorylation of 4E-BP and S6K were detected. In addition, treatment with AICAR did not affect PTTH-stimulated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation, indicating that AMPK phosphorylation is not upstream signaling for ERK phosphorylation. Examination of gene expression levels of AMPKα, β, and γ by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) showed that PTTH did not affect AMPK transcription. From these results, it is assumed that inhibition of AMPK phosphorylation, which lies upstream of PTTH-stimulated TOR signaling, may play a role in PTTH stimulation of ecdysteroidogenesis.
Visualization of space series

In this research paper we give ways of graphing large space series, or time series, or space and time series. A pixel represents a region consisting of a number of points. The color of the pixel therefore is a function of all the values that there are within the region represented by the pixel. A lossy algorithm for image compression is also introduced here. A distance between the approximated image and the original image is introduced. This distance is inversely proportional to the number of data used, the geometric design of the data sampled from the original image, and the semivariogram. The distance decreases drastically as the sampling distance between consecutive points decreases from being equal to the zone of influence to being half of the zone of influence. As the sampling distance becomes smaller than half the zone of influence the distance decreases very slowly and converges to zero as the sampling distance converges to zero in which case we have sampled the whole space.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Novel Synthesis of 1-(1,2,3,5,6,7-Hexahydro- s-indacen-4-yl)-3-[4-(1-hydroxy-1-methyl-ethyl)-furan-2-sulfonyl]urea, an Anti-inflammatory Agent

Abstract A novel synthesis of the anti-inflammatory agent 1-(1,2,3,5,6,7- hexahydro-s-indacen-4-yl)-3-[4-(1-hydroxy-1-methyl-ethyl)-furan-2-sulfonyl] urea 1 is described. Sulfonamide 5 was prepared starting from ethyl 3-furoate 2. Key steps were a one-pot sulfonylation with chlorosulfonic acid in methylene chloride followed by pyridinium salt formation and reaction with phosphorus pentachloride to provide ethyl 2-(chlorosulfonyl)-4-furoate 7. This sulfonyl chloride was treated with ammonium bicarbonate to form sulfonamide 8, followed by treatment with excess methyl magnesium chloride to provide 4-(1-hydroxy-1-methyl-ethyl)-furan-2-sulfonamide 5. 4-Isocyanato-1,2,3,5,6,7-hexahydro-s-indacene 16 was prepared from indan in five steps. The formation of the desired sulfonyl urea was carried out both with the isolated isocyanate 16 and via an in situ method.
Effects of preparatory videotapes on self-efficacy beliefs and recovery from coronary bypass surgery

This study evaluated the relative effects of three experimental videotapes that involved different approaches for preparing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) patients for surgery and the inhospital recovery period. One of the tapes conveyed information via a health care expert only. The other two featured the same health care expert and also included clips of interviews with patient models. These latter two tapes differed in the extent to which they portrayed the recovery period as a steady, forward progression or as consisting of “ups and downs.” Two hundred fifty-eight male CABG patients were randomly assigned to view one of the three videotapes on the evening prior to surgery or to a control condition. Overall, patients who viewed any of the videotapes felt significantly better prepared for the recovery period, reported higher self-efficacy for using the incentive spirometer and for speeding their recovery, performed more repetitions with their incentive spirometer each time they used it postoperatively, had shorter intensive care unit stays, and were released from the hospital more quickly than patients in the control condition. There was also evidence that patients’ self-efficacy beliefs for speeding recovery directly mediated the effects of the videotapes on length of stay both in the intensive care unit and in the hospital.
Granulosa-Cell Carcinoma: A Malignant Ovarian Tumor Associated with Endocrinological Effects

There are two of the ovarian neoplasms which may properly be separated from the others and classified together on the basis of certain peculiar effects which the two produce. These are the arrhenoblastoma and the granulosa-cell carcinoma. They are grouped together because each appears to produce an hormone which is physiologically active in the body of the host. Earlier in this year the author presented a study on arrhenoblastoma (Norris, 1938) and many of the introductory remarks of that communication are equally applicable here. At the outset a brief presentation of a case of granulosa-cell carcinoma will be made and attention will then be directed toward an analytical survey of this neoplasm and its effects.
Randomized study of control of the primary tumor and survival using preoperative radiation, radiation alone, or surgery alone in head and neck carcinomas.

Fifty-five selected patients with previously untreated squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck regions were studied in a randomized, prospective manner. The three treatment categories were primary radiation (Gp R), primary surgery (Gp S), and preoperative radiation of 4000 rads in four weeks (Gp R/S). The local control rates for the 44 evaluable patients with a two-year minimum followup were 24%, 39%, and 43%, respectively. Further treatment attempts in patients failing initial therapy yielded local control rates of 35%, 39%, and 43% for Gp R, Gp S, and Gp R/S, respectively. None of the local control rates nor the corresponding survival curves were significantly different at P < 0.10. However, the group sizes were sufficiently small that true differences might not have been detected. Postoperative complications were higher in the primary radiation failures subsequently operated upon compared to the primary surgery group (P = 0.07). A table is included in which the types of postoperative complications are listed and enumerated according to treatment regime.
Two-stage iterative decoding algorithms for a class of cyclic codes

This paper presents a class of iteratively decodable cyclic codes. Codes in this class have large minimum distance; however, their Tanner graphs contain many short cycles of length 4. With the conventional iterative decoding based on belief propagation, these short cycles significantly degrade the error performance of the codes. To avoid the degrading effect of these short cycles in performance, two-stage iterative decoding algorithms are devised. Cyclic codes have encoding advantage over other linear block codes. Encoding of a cyclic code in systematic form can be implemented with a single feedback shift-register.
Effect of Succinylcholine on Skeletal Muscle with Immobilization Atrophy

The effects of succinylcholine (SCh) on both normal and immobilized canine gastroenemius muscle were compared and contrasted with respect to potassium (K+) flux, VO2, and muscle tension. Muscle K+ efflux and VO2, increased more in immobilized atrophie than in normal muscle. Neither normal nor immobilized muscle showed increased tension with SCh. K+ efflux from immobilized atrophic muscle was much less than that previously demonstrated from denervated muscle. The difference in response, however, cannot be attributed solely to the absence of supersensitivity in muscle with immobilization atrophy, for paraplegic muscle, which also does not manifest supersensitivity, responds to SCh with a large release of K+. It may be that there is a trophic function from upper to lower motor neuron, as well as from lower motor neuron to muscle.
Infection Control in the Operating Room

Surgical site infections (SSIs) occur in 160,000 to 300,000 patients per year, at a rate of 2% to 5%. SSIs increase postoperative hospitalization stay and the likelihood of postoperative mortality by a factor of 2- to 11-fold. The estimated financial impact of SSIs on the health care system ranges from $3.5 to $45.0 billion annually. Anesthesia providers have the potential to increase the patient's risk for developing an SSI. The use of antibiotics, attention to patient normothermia, and sound hand hygiene have been shown to decrease the rate of postoperative SSI.
Resist heating effect on e-beam mask writing at 75 kV and 60 A/cm 2

Resist heating has been known to be one of the main contributors to local CD variation in mask patterning using variable shape e-beam tools. Increasingly complex mask patterns require increased number of shapes which drives the need for higher electron beam current densities to maintain reasonable write times. As beam current density is increased, CD error resulting from resist heating may become a dominating contributor to local CD variations. In this experimental study, the IBM EL4+ mask writer with high voltage and high current density has been used to quantitatively investigate the effect of resist heating on the local CD uniformity. ZEP 7000 and several chemically amplified resists have been evaluated under various exposure conditions (single-pass, multi-pass, variable spot size) and pattern densities. Patterns were designed specifically to allow easy measurement of local CD variations with write strategies designed to maximize the effect of resist heating. Local CD variations as high as 15 nm in 18.75 × 18.75 μm sub-field size have been observed for ZEP 7000 in a single-pass writing with full 1000 nm spots at 50% pattern density. This number can be reduced by increasing the number of passes or by decreasing the maximum spot size. The local CD variation has been reduced to as low as 2 nm for ZEP 7000 for the same pattern under modified exposure conditions. The effectiveness of various writing strategies is discussed as well as their possible deficiencies. Minimal or no resist heating effects have been observed for the chemically amplified resists studied. The results suggest that the resist heating effect can be well controlled by careful selection of the resist/process system and/or writing strategy and that resist heating does not have to pose a problem for high throughput e-beam mask making that requires high voltage and high current densities.
Bone sialoprotein is localized to the root surface during cementogenesis

Bone sialoprotein (BSP), an RGD-containing protein with cell attachment properties, is believed to play a regulatory role in the biomineralization of various connective tissues. To determine its possible role in tooth root formation, murine dentoalveolar tissues at sequential phases of development were analyzed immunohistochemically for the presence of BSP. BSP was localized to alveolar bone and cementum at time points associated with initial mineralization of these tissues. In addition, northern blot analyses of dental follicle tissue at day 27 of tooth development indicated that BSP mRNA is expressed by dental follicle cells at a time point coincident with the initiation of cementogenesis on the peripheral tooth root surface. Collectively, these findings indicate that BSP may play an important role in the formation and mineralization of cementum.
Immunosuppressive activity of uterine luminal protein from steroid-treated ovariectomized heifers.

Uterine luminal protein (ULP) collected from ovariectomized steroid-treated crossbred heifers was tested for immunosuppressive activity in vitro. Heifers were allotted to treatment groups and for 16 d received daily injections of the following steroids or vehicle: Control (C, corn oil only, n=10); estradiol-17β (E2, 1.1 μg/kg body wt, n=10); progesterone (P4, 2.2 mg/kg body wt, n=10); and E2+P4 (1.1 μg + 2.2 mg/kg body wt, n=9). On Day 17, uterine flushings were collected, concentrated and quantitated for total ULP. ULP was tested for suppression of lymphocyte blastogenesis. For each experiment, 5 × 105 bovine lymphocytes were incubated with 0.4 μg of phytohemagglutinin (PHA) and ULP (25 to 400 μg ULP/ml) using standard culture conditions. At 48 h, 0.5 μCi of (3H) thymidine was added to cultures with cells harvested at 60 ± 1 h by automation. Incorporated thymidine was measured by scintillation chromatography. Mean total ULP values for C-, E2-, P4- and E2+P4-treated groups were 4.7, 8.4, 13.6, and 25.5 mg, respectively (E2+P4>C and E2, P<0.05). ULP from all treatment groups suppressed (P<0.0001) lymphocyte blastogenesis (thymidine incorporation) to PHA; however, suppression was greater (P<0.0001) for ULP from E2- and P4-than C-treated heifers at 100 and 200 μg ULP/ml. In conclusion, E2 and P4 injections enhanced immunosuppressive activity of ULP secretions.
Exogenous leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) attenuates retinal vascularization reducing cell proliferation not apoptosis

To study the effect of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) on rat retinal vascular development, Sprague-Dawley rats at postnatal age 3 days (p3) were given intraperitoneal (IP) LIF and analysis performed at p6 (p3/6). p7 rats were given intravitreous (IV) LIF and analysis performed at p9 (p7/9). Control animals were PBS injected. At the time of analysis retinal flatmounts were prepared and stained with Griffonia lectin and activated caspase-3. The retinal peripheral avascular area was measured and number of apoptotic cells counted. In vitro, human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (RMVECs) were cultured in media containing LIF, with and without neutralizing antibody to LIF. Cells were stained with activated caspase-3 and apoptotic cells counted. Proliferation was measured by counting cell numbers, and cell cycle stage was determined using propidium iodide staining and FACS analysis. LIF injected either IP or IV had no effect on body weight or total retina area, but significantly increased the peripheral retinal avascular area. In both IP and IV injected groups there was no difference in the number of apoptotic cells between PBS- or LIF-injected groups; although in the p7/9 retinas, both injected groups had significantly more apoptotic cells than the non-injected group. In vitro, there was no effect of LIF on RMVEC apoptosis; however, cell counts were significantly lower in the LIF-treated group. Antibody to LIF restored the cell counts to untreated levels. LIF reduced the number of cells in S phase. LIF attenuates retinal vascular development in vivo through growth arrest, and not apoptosis, of endothelial cells.
A symposium on Theodore Burczak’s, Socialism after Hayek

What does socialism after Hayek look like? Ted Burczak provides one highly intriguing answer.
Ten Steps to Developing a National Agenda to Address Financial Conflicts of Interest in Industry Sponsored Clinical Research

Financial liaisons between clinical researchers, research institutions, and industrial sponsors have gained momentum in recent years. In the process, it has been argued by many that trust in the research infrastructure is being eroded by the financial conflicts of interest that emerge from these arrangements. Yet, the financial resources of industry are needed to continue technology transfer from the bench to the bedside. Policy makers and government regulators are currently struggling to determine how to best manage financial conflicts of interest that emerge from these liaisons. Various organizations and governmental entities have proposed different strategies. This paper explores the limitations of existing measures and recommends that a unified national agenda is needed. We propose 10 steps to develop an agenda to address financial conflicts of interest in industry-sponsored clinical research. Supported by National Institutes of Health/National Library of Medicine, Project number: 1G13LM07J12-01.
Maternal and paternal recreational drug use and sudden infant death syndrome.

Objective To determine whether maternal or paternal use of cocaine, opiates, or marijuana during conception and pregnancy and postnatally increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) during the first year of the infant's life. This is an important issue and may prove useful in further decreasing the rate of SIDS. Methods A case-control study was conducted consisting of 239 infants who died of SIDS in southern California between 1989 and 1992, and 239 healthy infants who were matched on the basis of birth hospital, date of birth, age, and sex. Specific drug use at the period of conception, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and in the presence or vicinity of the infant was ascertained by telephone for the white, African American, Hispanic, Asian American, and Pacific Islander case and control fathers and mothers. Results Maternal recreational drug use during pregnancy was not associated with the risk of SIDS after adjusting for maternal smoking during pregnancy (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 2.0; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.6-6.5). There were statistically significant differences between case and control fathers' use of marijuana during conception (OR = 2.2; 95% CI, 1.2-4.2;P= .01), during pregnancy (OR = 2.0; 95% CI, 1.0-4.1;P= .05), and postnatally (OR = 2.8; 95% CI, 1.1-7.3;P= .04) and the risk of SIDS, while adjusting for paternal smoking and alcohol use. Conclusions There was no association between maternal recreational drug use and SIDS. Paternal marijuana use during the periods of conception and pregnancy and postnatally were significantly associated with SIDS. The role of paternal psychoactive drug use, especially the relationship between marijuana and SIDS, is an understudied area; however, before any definitive role for the father can be confirmed, these findings should be investigated and replicated in future studies.
Effect of continued oral feeding on clinical and nutritional outcomes of acute diarrhea in children.

One hundred twenty-eight nonmalnourished male patients between 3 and 36 months of age were randomly assigned to receive one of four lactose-free dietary treatments to determine the effect of dietary therapy on the severity and nutritional outcome of diarrheal illness. Group 1 received a formula diet composed of casein, sucrose, dextrin with maltose (Dextri-Maltose), and vegetable oll to provide 110 kcal/kg body weight/d (CSO-110). Group 2 received CSO to provide 55 kcal/kg/d (CSO-55) for 2 days and then CSO-110. Group 3 received only oral glucose-electrolyte solution (GES) for 2 days, CSO-55 for the next 2 days, and then CSO-110. Group 4 received the same diets as Group 3 except that only intravenous GES was used for the first 2 days. The GES maintenance solutions provided 24 to 30 kcal/kg/d. Therapeutic success rates were similar among dietary groups, ranging from 90% to 97%. Fecal excretion was initially lower in group 4 (P
Quantitative measurement of biomass gasifier tars using a molecular-beam mass spectrometer : Comparison with traditional impinger sampling

Removal of tars produced during biomass gasification continues to be a technical barrier confronted by developers of commercial thermochemical conversion systems. Quantitative measurement of tar in the synthesis gas (syngas) stream is important to assess the effectiveness of cleanup and conditioning processes and verify the suitability of the cleaned syngas for its intended downstream use (e.g., catalytic conversion to liquid fuels, hydrogen recovery, or electricity production). In an effort to advance the art of gasifier tar measurement and address some limitations of traditional impinger sampling, we have investigated the use of a molecular-beam mass spectrometer (MBMS) sampling system as an alternative method for quantifying real-time tar concentrations in biomass gasifier-derived syngas. The 0.5 ton/day pilot-scale biomass gasification system of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has enabled direct comparisons between MBMS sampling and replicate impinger sampling during continuous operati...
Who was W. E. Hocking

Through his post‐Hutchins Commission published works, William Ernest Hocking possibly played a larger role in determining the ultimate influence of the commission on Freedom of the Press than any of its better known members. But who was he? Hocking was a theologian who saw pragmatism and idealism in a constant state of philosophical confrontation. He chose the latter and, in spite of close encounter travel experiences, came to see in Mussolini's Italy, Hitler's Germany and Stalin's Soviet Union the new dawn of a communitarian way of life. He sought order and discipline in what he saw as a world of normless pandemonium. If we misunderstand him, it is partly because of a prosaic and opaque prose style that even his few disciples had trouble penetrating.
The impact of communities of practice in support of early-career academics

This paper traces the history and impact of communities of practice (CoPs) in supporting early-career academics, although the primary focus here in the United States is on the faculty learning community (FLC) model, a special type of CoP in higher education. The initial development of this model, beginning in 1979, takes place over two decades at Miami University, and then is extended over the third decade to other institutions of higher education in the US, followed by current international explorations. One study found that early-career academics that participated in FLCs for their cohort were tenured at a significantly higher rate compared to those who were not in FLCs. Other studies discovered that early-career academic FLC participation had a positive impact on their interest in the teaching process, their comfort as a member of the university community, and their understanding of, and interest in, the scholarship of teaching and learning. The paper concludes with the results of a study of why some e...