cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract 2810: Using CRISPR/Cas9 to generate primary soft tissue sarcoma in genetically engineered and wild-type mice

Genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) that employ site-specific recombinase (SSR) technology are important tools for pre-clinical studies, but this approach is costly and time-consuming. Here, we show that the CRISPR/Cas9 system can be used to efficiently complement existing GEMMs of sarcoma and generate primary sarcomas in wild type mice. Mice with the genotype KrasLSL-G12D/+; Rosa26LSL-Cas9-EGFP/+ received intramuscular delivery of an adenovirus expressing Cre recombinase and a single guide RNA (sgRNA) targeting Trp53. Cre-mediated expression of oncogenic Kras and Cas9, in combination with CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of Trp53, was sufficient to generate primary soft tissue sarcomas. These tumors arose with kinetics similar to those generated using the Cre-loxP system to activate oncogenic Kras and delete Trp53 alleles. Additionally, we injected an adenovirus containing Cas9 and sgRNAs targeting Nf1 and Trp53 into the sciatic nerve of wild type mice. These mice formed malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) in the same timeframe as MPNSTs generated using the Cre-loxP system to delete Nf1 and Ink4a/Arf alleles in GEMMs. These data demonstrate that CRISPR/Cas9 can be used to generate soft tissue sarcomas in wild type mice. Moreover, these results suggest that this technology can complement existing GEMMs for rapid assessment of tumor-modifying genes. These tools should decrease the time and expense associated with employing autochthonous mouse models of sarcoma for preclinical research. Citation Format: Jianguo Huang, Mark Chen, Melodi J. Whitley, Hsuan-Cheng Kuo, Andrea Walens, Yvonne M. Mowery, David V. Mater, William Eward, Diana M. Cardona, Lixia Luo, Yan Ma, Christopher E. Nelson, Jacqueline N. Robinson-Hamm, Charles A. Gersbach, Rebecca D. Dodd, David G. Kirsch. Using CRISPR/Cas9 to generate primary soft tissue sarcoma in genetically engineered and wild-type mice [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2017; 2017 Apr 1-5; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 2810. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2017-2810
Case 9: The Case of the “Hidden” IV

A 55-year-old man (70 kg, 5’11”, ASA 2E) is admitted for emergency laparotomy following a stab to his abdomen. He is hemodynamically stable. He has no past history of note except a previous stab, again to his abdomen. His previous anesthesia and surgery have been uneventful. He arrives in the operating room with a 20G IV in his hand which is seen to work well. He does not like needles, and since he is considered stable, routine rapid sequence induction is initiated without any problems using the 20G. After induction, a 14G peripheral IV is placed in the right hand and attached to a Hotline® Fluid Warmer (SIMS level 1 INC., Rockland, MA 02370) for possible rapid IV fluids and blood transfusion. A central vascular line is inserted into the right subclavian vein with one stick, and no problems are encountered. The CVP is running well, and you aspirate back the blood easily from all lumens. At the surgeon’s request, the left arm with the 20G IV is tucked alongside the patient’s body. The right hand with the 14G IV is placed “out” at 90° to his body. The surgery commences and repairs of both small and large intestines are needed. Four hours into the operation, the urine output decreases. The surgeon tells you that he cannot feel very little urine in the bladder. The CVP, as measured with your triple lumen IV set, is within normal limits. Through the 20G IV (the IV is now seen to be working “great”), furosemide 10 mg is given and a dopamine drip is commenced. Thirty to forty minutes later, no improvement in urine output is seen. The patient is still cardiovascular stable with a normal CVP, but the urine output is only 3 ml in the last hour. You give more furosemide and increase your dose of dopamine again via your 20G IV. However, 30 min later, there is still no improvement in urine output.
Association between Long-Term Slow-Wave Sleep Enhancement and Cognitive Performance (P6.073)

Objective: The goal of this retrospective study was to evaluate whether long-term use of slow-wave sleep (SWS) enhancers relates to delayed cognitive decline. Background: In humans, SWS mediates episodic memory consolidation. Recent studies indicate that activity-dependent amyloid accumulation in mice worsens with SWS restriction and improves with SWS enhancement. Furthermore, patients with Alzheimer’s disease have less SWS, and cognitively non-impaired adults with decreased SWS exhibit increased amyloid burden. We hypothesized that long-term SWS enhancement may relate to delayed cognitive decline, and focused on trazodone as an effective SWS enhancer. Design/Methods: We identified 26 participants (AD, mild cognitive impairment, non-impaired controls) from the UCSF Memory and Aging Center cohort who reported regular trazodone use for at least two consecutive neuropsychological evaluations. These were propensity matched to 26 trazodone non-users by accounting for age, sex, education, type of sleep deficit (hypersomnia, insomnia, parasomnia), diagnosis, and baseline MMSE. Longitudinal group differences in cognitive tests were evaluated through ANCOVA (sig. p Results: The non-trazodone group had three-fold faster decline on MMSE compared to the trazodone group. Trazodone effects did not depend on coexisting stimulants or sedatives. Additionally, visual recall, processing speed, and disability score changes were worse in the non-trazodone group. These effects varied in significance when accounting for sedative and stimulant use, with most robust differences involving a five-fold faster decline in visual memory. Conclusions: These results support the hypothesis that SWS enhancement may help delay cognitive decline in adults, making it an attractive and cost-effective intervention in dementia. It is also in keeping with SWS mediating primarily episodic memory consolidation. Whether these associations are directly causal, such as through decreased amyloid deposition, will need to be addressed through prospective studies that include biomarkers. Study Supported by: The American Brain Foundation, the Alzheimer Association, and the Tau Consortium. Disclosure: Dr. La has nothing to disclose. Dr. Walsh has nothing to disclose. Dr. Neylan has received research support from Actelion and GlaxoSmithKline. Dr. Miller has nothing to disclose. Dr. Karageorgiou has nothing to disclose.
Epigenetic modifications by polyphenolic compounds alter gene expression in the hippocampus

In this study, we developed an experimental protocol leveraging enhanced reduced representation bisulphite sequencing to investigate methylation and gene expression patterns in the hippocampus in response to polyphenolic compounds. We report that the administration of a standardized bioavailable polyphenolic preparation (BDPP) differentially influences methylated cytosine patterns in introns, UTR and exons in hippocampal genes. We subsequently established that dietary BDPP-mediated changes in methylation influenced the transcriptional pattern of select genes that are involved in synaptic plasticity. In addition, we showed dietary BDPP mediated changes in the transcriptional pattern of genes associated with epigenetic modifications, including members of the DNA methyl transferase family (DNMTs) and the Ten-eleven translocation methylcytosine dioxygenases family (TETs). We then identified the specific brain bioavailable polyphenols effective in regulating the transcription of DNMTs, TETs and a subset of differentially methylated synaptic plasticity-associated genes. The study implicates the regulation of gene expression in the hippocampus by epigenetic mechanisms as a novel therapeutic target for dietary polyphenols.
Elastic Constitutive Laws

The number of equations available through the principles of continuum mechanics (conservation of mass and energy, and principles of linear and angular momentums) is inadequate to solve boundary value problems. The additional required equations are provided through what are known as the constitutive relations. In this chapter, we will discuss the details of the linear-elastic constitutive relations.
Adherence to mammography and colorectal cancer screening in women 50-80 years of age the role of psychological distress.

Purpose The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of women's attitudes and health beliefs regarding breast and colorectal cancer screening practices. Methods Nine hundred five women, 50 to 80 years of age, were recruited from 63 randomly selected physician offices within the greater Los Angeles area. The Health Belief Model was used to evaluate potential predictor variables associated with patients' breast and colorectal cancer screening practices. Results The study results revealed that mammographic screening compliance was relatively high (70%), whereas only 29% of the patients were compliant with fecal occult blood test (FOBT) screening guidelines. Women were far more likely to obtain regular mammography screening than an FOBT. Psychological distress had one of the strongest, negative associations with breast cancer and colorectal cancer screening, and was also a prevalent predictor for many of the variables examined. Conclusion Psychological distress seems to negatively impact a patient's decision to adhere to breast cancer and colorectal cancer screening recommendations, although participants were far more likely to obtain regular mammography screening than an FOBT.
Association of the Gross Appearance of Intratumoral Vascularity at MDCT With the Carbonic Anhydrase IX Score in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma.

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to determine whether qualitative MDCT features are associated with the carbonic anhydrase IX (CAIX) score of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC). The CAIX...
Prostate Cancer in a Patient with Giant Prostatic Hyperplasia: The Robotic Approach to a Difficult Problem.

Abstract The robotic approach toward radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer has only recently become widespread. Two of the advantages of the robotic approach have been described to be the optic...
Structure of the eukaryotic protein O-mannosyltransferase Pmt1-Pmt2 complex

In eukaryotes, a nascent peptide entering the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is scanned by two Sec61 translocon-associated large membrane machines for protein N-glycosylation and protein O-mannosylation, respectively. While the structure of the eight-protein oligosaccharyltransferase complex has been determined recently, the structures of mannosyltransferases of the PMT family, which are an integral part of ER protein homeostasis, are still unknown. Here we report cryo-EM structures of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae Pmt1-Pmt2 complex bound to a donor and an acceptor peptide at 3.2-A resolution, showing that each subunit contains 11 transmembrane helices and a lumenal β-trefoil fold termed the MIR domain. The structures reveal the substrate recognition model and confirm an inverting mannosyl-transferring reaction mechanism by the enzyme complex. Furthermore, we found that the transmembrane domains of Pmt1 and Pmt2 share a structural fold with the catalytic subunits of oligosaccharyltransferases, confirming a previously proposed evolutionary relationship between protein O-mannosylation and protein N-glycosylation.
Carbon Nanotube Transistors as Gas Sensors: Response Differentiation Using Polymer Gate Dielectrics

The high sensitivity of carbon nanotube devices as gas sensors is generally attributed to the large surface area of the material, whereas selectivity is often imparted by the “lock-and-key” mechanism. In contrast with this picture, where little function is conferred to the underlying substrate, we demonstrate that bottom gate carbon nanotube network field-effect transistors (CNN-FETs) fabricated on a variety of polymer dielectrics, but with the same pristine carbon nanotubes, show differentiated responses to analytes. Interaction with the environment thus occurs not only directly with carbon nanotubes but is often mediated by the substrate. In a broad survey of polymers, we identify several materials suitable as the gate dielectric of printed devices and that yield a vanishing gate hysteresis in ambient air. The other two classes of polymers that induce a lagging or advancing hysteresis in CNN-FETs are found desirable for gas sensing applications. Moreover, we have tested CNN-FETs with different polymer g...
Swelling kinetics of rice and potato starch suspensions

Granule size distribution of 8% w/w suspension of normal rice starch (NRS), waxy rice starch (WRS), modified potato starch (MPS), and normal potato starch (NPS) in water when subjected to heating at 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, and 85°C at different hold times (0–60 min) were characterized. The average starch granule diameter was larger at higher temperatures and hold times for NRS, WRS, and MPS indicating swelling, whereas for NPS it decreased indicating breakage. Swelling varied in the order: MPS > NRS > WRS. Earlier proposed pseudo first‐ and second‐order kinetic and Weibull models for swelling were evaluated. Swelling kinetics was also predicted using our previously developed mechanistic model (Desam et. al., 2018a Journal of Food Engineering 222:237–249) whose predictions agreed well with the experimental data of mean granule diameter and granule size distribution with time at different temperatures, and therefore can be employed to describe swelling at different processing conditions. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Starches are incorporated in food products for a variety of reasons such as stabilizing, thickening, binding, and gelling. Starch occurs as discrete granules. Upon exposure to water, starch granules swell when heated. This results in thickening of starch suspension (known as pasting) due to an increase in volume fraction of swollen granules. Starch pasting results in an increase in its viscosity. Therefore, the texture of a variety of food products such as sauces, puddings, soups, batter mixes, and so forth are influenced by pasting. The rheology and texture of starch paste obtained by cooking of starch granules are governed by its swelling. It is, therefore, necessary to quantify swelling in order to predict the rheology of starch paste as well as to develop new food formulations. We developed a mechanistic model which predicts the swelling kinetics of rice and potato starch suspensions.
The Prorenin Receptor and its Soluble Form Contribute to Lipid Homeostasis

Obesity is associated with alterations in hepatic lipid metabolism. We previously identified the prorenin receptor (PRR) as a potential contributor to liver steatosis. Therefore, we aimed to determine the relative contribution of PRR and its soluble form, sPRR, to lipid homeostasis. PRR-floxed male mice were treated with an adeno-associated virus with thyroxine-binding globulin promoter driven Cre to delete specifically PRR in hepatocytes (Liver PRR KO mice). Hepatic PRR deletion did not change the body weight but increased liver weights. Liver PRR KO mice exhibited higher plasma cholesterol levels and lower hepatic LDLR protein than control mice. Surprisingly, hepatic PRR deletion elevated hepatic cholesterol, and up-regulated hepatic SREBP2 and HMG CoA-R genes. In addition, hepatic PRR deletion increased plasma sPRR levels. In vitro studies in Hep-G2 cells demonstrated that sPRR treatment up-regulated SREBP2 suggesting that elevated plasma sPRR could contribute to hepatic cholesterol biosynthesis. Interestingly, PPAR{gamma}, PRR and total sPRR were elevated in the adipose tissue of Liver PRR KO mice suggesting that elevated plasma sPRR originated from the adipose tissue. In 3T3-L1 cells, sPRR treatment up-regulated PPAR{gamma} indicating that sPRR stimulates master regulator of adipocyte differentiation. Overall, this work support a new role for sPRR in lipid metabolism and adipose tissue - liver crosstalk.
COVID-19 in the Nuclear Medicine Department, be prepared for ventilation scans as well!

We read with great interest the recent editorial by Huang et al [1] regarding the unfortunately timely topic of considerations attendant to running a nuclear medicine department in the context of the COVID-19 epidemic, which complements similar work on diagnostic imaging [2] and hospital-wide preparedness [3] As the pandemic has unfolded in a somewhat sequential manner [4], lessons learned in one geographic domain are of great value to physicians who practice in locations that are earlier on the learning curve One area of concern which we did not see covered in the comprehensive treatment relates to performance of ventilation scans, a standard component of ventilation/perfusion studies performed to exclude pulmonary embolus [5] The population of patients who are short-of-breath and considered for pulmonary embolus certainly overlap with individuals who may be suffering effects of COVID-19 infection Beyond standard methods of decontamination, which are relevant to all patients with suspicion of infection [2,6], is there a specific concern that patients performing ventilation studies will expose others to airborne virus by exhalation into the aerosolization system? Do we need to take any additional precautions to minimize airborne distribution of virus, such as requiring technologists to don respiratory mask to protect against airborne virus? Are there any changes in protocol that we can implement to mitigate risk?
Group parent training for Attention-deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Parent training is one of the most commonly used treatments for children with Attention deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder; however, there are few studies that empirically examine the effectiveness of Barkley's widely used parent training program. Thirty-one families with ADHD children in preschool through fifth grade were randomly assigned to a seven week immediate parent training program or to one of two delayed treatment groups. The sessions were co-facilitated by two individuals using Barkley's Defiant Children Clinician's Manual for Parent Training. Treatment outcome was evaluated through observation, parent ratings, and teacher ratings numerous times before and after treatment in a multiple baseline design. The major findings were: a) Parent training resulted in significant changes in parents' behavior (including use of approving statements and reduced need to repeat commands to obtain compliance): b) Parent training resulted in changes in children's behavior in the home setting (including increased compliance, decreased hyperactive behavior and decreased problematic behavior in general); c) Parent training resulted in changes in parents' and children's behavior that were maintained over time; and d) Parent training did not result in significant changes in the children's behavior in the school setting. Recommendations are provided for adding an additional session to Barkley's program, and for working with teachers to better meet children's needs in the school setting.
COVID-19 Pandemic Impact on Decreased Imaging Utilization: A Single Institutional Experience.

Rationale and Objectives Predictive models and anecdotal articles suggest radiology practices were losing 50%-70% of their normal imaging volume during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using actual institutional data, we investigated the change in imaging utilization and revenue during this public health crisis. Materials and Methods Imaging performed within the 8-week span between March 8 and April 30, 2020 was categorized into the COVID-19 healthcare crisis timeframe. The first week of this date range and the 10 weeks prior were used to derive the normal practice expected volume. A rolling 7-day total value was used for volume tracking and comparison. Total imaging utilization was derived and organized by patient setting (outpatient, inpatient, emergency) and imaging modality (X-ray, CT, Mammography, MRI, Nuclear Medicine/PET, US). The three highest volume hospitals were analyzed. Revenue information was collected from the hospital billing system. Results System-wide imaging volume decreased by 55% between April 7 and 13, 2020. Outpatient exams decreased by 68% relative to normal practice. Emergency exams decreased by 48% and inpatient exams declined by 31%. Mammograms and nuclear medicine scans were the most affected modalities, decreasing by 93% and 61%, respectively. The main campus hospital experienced less relative imaging volume loss compared to the other smaller and outpatient-driven hospitals. At its lowest point, the technical component revenue from main campus imaging services demonstrated a 49% negative variance from normal practice. Conclusion The trends and magnitude of the actual imaging utilization data presented will help inform evidence-based decisions for more accurate volume predictions, policy changes, and institutional preparedness for current and future pandemics.
Scalar and vector line integrals: A conceptual analysis and an initial investigation of student understanding

Abstract This paper adds to the growing body of research happening in multivariable calculus by examining scalar and vector line integrals. This paper contributes in two ways. First, this paper provides a conceptual analysis for both types of line integrals in terms of how theoretical ways of thinking about definite integrals summarized from the research literature might be applied to understanding line integrals specifically. Second, this paper provides an initial investigation of students’ understandings of line integral expressions, and connects these understanding to the theoretical ways of thinking drawn from the literature. One key finding from the empirical part is that several students appeared to understand individual pieces of the integral expression based on one way of thinking, such as adding up pieces or anti-derivatives, while trying to understand the overall integral expression through a different way of thinking, such as area under a curve.
Total kinetic energy and mass yields from the fast neutron-induced fission of $$^{239}\hbox {Pu}$$ 239 Pu

The total kinetic energy (TKE) release in fission is an important observable, constituting over 80% of the energy released in fission ( $$\hbox {E}_{f} \approx 200~\hbox {MeV}$$ ). While the TKE release in the $$^{239}\hbox {Pu}$$ (n,f) reaction was previously measured up to 50 MeV incident neutron energy ( $$\hbox {E}_{n}$$ ), there were features in TKE release at the highest values of $$\hbox {E}_{n}$$ that were puzzling. There was a marked flattening of TKE release from $$\hbox {E}_{n} = 30$$ to 50 MeV, in disagreement with the clearly decreasing TKE observed from $$\hbox {E}_{n} = 0.5$$ to 30 MeV. To verify and clarify this trend, TKE measurements at higher values of $$\hbox {E}_n$$ were made. We present absolute measurements of TKE release in $$^{239}\hbox {Pu}$$ (n,f) from $$\hbox {E}_{n} = 2.4$$ to 100 MeV. We used silicon PIN detectors to measure the fragment energies and deduce mass-yield curves using the 2E-method. We also discuss fission asymmetry and the relationships between approximate fission fragment mass and distortion.
Gestational Cd Exposure in the CD-1 Mouse Induces Sex-Specific Hepatic Insulin Insensitivity, Obesity, and Metabolic Syndrome in Adult Female Offspring.

There is compelling evidence that developmental exposure to toxic metals increases risk for obesity and obesity-related morbidity including cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. To explore the hypothesis that developmental Cd exposure increases risk of obesity later in life, male, and female CD-1 mice were maternally exposed to 500 ppb CdCl2 in drinking water during a human gestational equivalent period (gestational day 0-postnatal day 10 [GD0-PND10]). Hallmark indicators of metabolic disruption, hepatic steatosis, and metabolic syndrome were evaluated prior to birth through adulthood. Maternal blood Cd levels were similar to those observed in human pregnancy cohorts, and Cd was undetected in adult offspring. There were no observed impacts of exposure on dams or pregnancy-related outcomes. Results of glucose and insulin tolerance testing revealed that Cd exposure impaired offspring glucose homeostasis on PND42. Exposure-related increases in circulating triglycerides and hepatic steatosis were apparent only in females. By PND120, Cd-exposed females were 30% heavier with 700% more perigonadal fat than unexposed control females. There was no evidence of dyslipidemia, steatosis, increased weight gain, nor increased adiposity in Cd-exposed male offspring. Hepatic transcriptome analysis on PND1, PND21, and PND42 revealed evidence for female-specific increases in oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction with significant early disruption of retinoic acid signaling and altered insulin receptor signaling consistent with hepatic insulin sensitivity in adult females. The observed steatosis and metabolic syndrome-like phenotypes resulting from exposure to 500 ppb CdCl2 during the pre- and perinatal period of development equivalent to human gestation indicate that Cd acts developmentally as a sex-specific delayed obesogen.
Removal of rare amplicon sequence variants from 16S rRNA gene sequence surveys biases the interpretation of community structure data

Abstract Methods for remediating PCR and sequencing artifacts in 16S rRNA gene sequence collections are in continuous development and have significant ramifications on the inferences that can be drawn. A common approach is to remove rare amplcon sequence variants (ASVs) from datasets. But, the definition of rarity is generally selected without regard for the number of sequences in the samples or the variation in sequencing depth across samples within a study. I analyzed the impact of removing rare ASVs on metrics of alpha and beta diversity using samples collected across 12 published datasets. Removal of rare ASVs significantly decreased the number of ASVs and operational taxonomic units as well as their diversity. Furthermore, their removal increased the variation in community structure between samples. When simulating a known effect size, removal of rare ASVs reduced the power to detect the effect relative to not removing rare ASVs. Removal of rare ASVs did not affect the false detection rate when samples were randomized to simulate a null model. However, the false detection rate increased when rare ASVs were removed using a null distribution and assignment of samples to simulated treatment groups according to their sequencing depth. The false detection rate did not vary when rare ASVs were retained. This analysis demonstrates the problems inherent in removing rare ASVs. Researchers are encouraged to retain rare ASVs, to select approaches that minimize PCR and sequencing artifacts, and to use rarefaction to control for uneven sequencing effort. Importance Removing rare amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) from 16S rRNA gene sequence collections is an approach that has grown in popularity for limiting PCR and sequencing artifacts. Yet, it is unclear what impact an abundance-based filter has on downstream analyses. To investigate the effects of removing rare ASVs, I analyzed the community distributions found in the samples of 12 published datasets. Analysis of these data and simulations based on them showed that removal of rare ASVs distorts the representation of microbial communities. This has the effect of artificially making it more difficult to detect differences between treatment groups. Also of concern was the observation that if sequencing depth is confounded with the treatment, then the probability of falsely detecting a difference between the treatment groups increased with the removal of rare ASVs. The practice of removing rare ASVs should stop, lest researcher adversely affect the interpretation of their data.
Nutritional Supplementation and Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation in Lung Transplant Patients

Purpose Intensive rehabilitation is recognized as an essential component to successful outcomes for recovery after a major cardio-thoracic surgery. We developed a multi-modal rehabilitation program that combines a physical therapy protocol with neuromuscular electric stimulation and nutrition supplementation to achieve improved functional outcomes for patients requiring lung transplantation. Methods Patients are randomized to the treatment arm or usual care 72 hours after transplant. Both groups undergo a global assessment of functional capabilities prior to transplant and at 72 hours post-transplantation. Patients in the treatment arm received additional physical therapy plus therapy with an electrical device and nutrition supplementation with essential amino acids. All patients received computed tomography to measure change in lower extremity skeletal muscle area. Muscle cross sectional area was measured at 1/3rd of the distance from the femoral tuberosity to the knee articulation. Results Preliminary results for six patients are presented in Figure 1. All patients had decreases in muscle cross-sectional area at 14 days post transplant. Compared to the standard of care group, the treatment group decreased average time of intubation (1.00±0.0 vs 2.33±1.4 days), average ICU length of stay (6.33±4.2 vs 8.33±7.5 days), and average hospital length of stay (17.00±2.6 vs 23.30±9.0 days). Conclusion We intend to use the data obtained from this pilot study to develop a larger, randomized interventional trial evaluating the effects of an intense multimodal rehabilitation program in improving long-term patient outcomes (including patient and graft survival) in cardiothoracic transplant recipients and as well as hospital length of stay and rate of early re-admission.
Atmospheric Pressure Plasmas in Material Science

The long-term goal of basic material research is to develop theoretical and experimental methodologies to advance the ability to produce materials with the desired compositions and properties that can be used in various applications [...]
Measuring Patient Preferences at the FDA Center for Devices and Radiological Health: Reflections and Projections

Abstract Objectives Patient preference information (PPI) is a way to incorporate the patient voice in the evaluation of medical devices. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) has been working to encourage the voluntary inclusion of PPI throughout the medical device lifecycle for nearly a decade. This article reflects CDRH's efforts to encourage collection of PPI and offers perspectives on the future of PPI in the evaluation of medical devices. Methods CDRH regulatory guidance, public meetings, and collaborations relating to PPI were explored. Results Since 2012 when CDRH issued guidance on how PPI can be used as scientific evidence in the benefit-risk regulatory submission, CDRH has issued 5 subsequent guidance documents expanding on the use of PPI in medical device evaluations. CDRH remains committed to advancing the science and application of PPI in the medical device ecosystem through many collaborations with professional organizations, patient advocacy groups, and academic institutions. By hosting and actively participating in multiple scientific and regulatory public meetings and conferences, CDRH fosters a continuous learning environment where the experience of using PPI in regulatory submissions can be shared. A September 2020 meeting cosponsored by FDA and International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR) discussed the state of PPI in regulatory applications and beyond. Conclusion This article describes these pivotal events that have helped to increase the use of PPI in medical device evaluation as well as discusses future applications of PPI.
A Versatile Linker for Probes Targeting Hydrolases via In Situ labeling

Abstract Hydrolases are important molecules that are involved in a wide range of biological functions and their activities are tightly regulated in healthy or diseased states. Detecting or imaging the activities of hydrolases, therefore, can reveal underlying molecular mechanisms in the context of cells to organisms, and their correlation with different physiological conditions can therefore be used in diagnosis. Due to the nature of hydrolases, substrate-based probes can be activated in their catalytic cycles, and cleavage of covalent bonds frees reporter moieties. For test-tube type bulk detection, spatial resolution is not a measure of importance, but for cell- or organism-based detection or imaging, spatial resolution is a key factor for probe sensitivity that influences signal-to-background ratio. One strategy to improve spatial resolution of the probes is to form a covalent linkage between the reporter moiety and intracellular proteins upon probe activation by the enzyme. In this work, we developed a generalizable linker chemistry that would allow in situ labeling of various imaging moieties via quinone methide species. To do so, we synthesized probes containing a monofluoromethyl or a difluoromethyl groups for β-galactosidase activation, while using fluorescein as a fluorescent reporter. The labeling efficacy of these two probes was evaluated in vitro. The probe bearing a monofluormethyl group exhibited superior labeling efficiency in imaging β-galactosidase activity in living cells. This study provides a versatile linker for applying quinone methide chemistry in the development of hydrolase-targeting probes involving in situ labeling.
Survival trends in chronic lymphocytic leukemia in the era of oral targeted therapies in the United States: SEER database analyses (1985 to 2017).

7524Background: The survival of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients has progressively improved after the approval of new targeted therapy for first-line treatment and relapsed disease. We p...
[11C]sarcosine for PET imaging of prostate cancer

1068 Objectives Tissue levels of sarcosine (2-(methylamino)ethanoic acid) have been found to be elevated in localized prostate cancer compared to benign prostatic tissues by metabolomic profiling and mass spectrometry-based target metabolite validation. We have prepared [11C]sarcosine (2-(methyl-11C-amino)ethanoic acid, 1) to evaluate it as a new PET imaging probe. In DU-145 and PC-3 tumor xenografts, and in a human subject with prostate cancer, [11C]sarcosine showed high-contrast images and favorable radiation dosimetry. However, the N-methyl of [11C]sarcosine is demethylated by sarcosine dehydrogenase in vivo, resulting in volatile [11C]CO2. We report here the radiosynthesis of 2-(methylamino)ethanoic-11C acid ([11C]sarcosine, 2). Radiolabeling of sarcosine at the carboxylic acid will allow further investigation of the metabolic and enzymatic function differences in prostate cancer. In addition, the novel carbon-11 labeling technique developed here to add [11C]ethanoic acid to an amine can be used to generate other radioligands and easily be extended to the radiosynthesis of related amides and nitriles. Methods [11C]HCN precursor was obtained as reported and trapped on a platinum wire coated with NaOH. After removal of excess NH3 the activity was eluted with aqueous NaCN (carrier added) into a vial containing methylamine and formaldehyde. The resulting intermediate was hydrolyzed with 10M NaOH at 100 °C. 2-(methylamino)ethanoic-11C acid was then purified with ion exchange cartridges. Results [11C]sarcosine, 2 was prepared in a multistep synthesis. Total synthesis time was 40 minutes from end of beam. In non-optimized conditions, total radiochemical yields were 1-3% based on [11C]CO2 (non-decay corrected). Conclusions Radiolabeling of sarcosine at the carboxylic acid has been achieved for the first time. Further preclinical and clinical studies of this compound are underway. The novel carbon-11 labeling technique of adding [11C]methylene nitrile to an amine can be extensively used to generate other radiopharmaceuticals.
A qualitative interview study on successful pregnancies in women with spina bifida.

BACKGROUND Improvements in antenatal medicine and surgical management for conditions associated with spina bifida such as hydrocephalus have extended the lifespan for individuals with spina bifida (SB) into adulthood. Decisions and education regarding reproductive care and pregnancies for patients with spina bifida are increasingly important. Pregnancy in these patients can be particularly challenging due to physical limitations, previous abdominal surgery for urinary or bowel management and presence of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt. To date, little research has examined the unique challenges that women with spina bifida face during pregnancy. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this descriptive study is to characterize the successful pregnancy histories of SB women and describe how pregnancy affected their mobility as well as bladder and bowel management. STUDY DESIGN We conducted semi-structured interviews with women followed in our adult multidisciplinary SB clinic who previously had successful pregnancies. Questions regarding perinatal issues, obstetrical complications, urinary tract infections (UTI) and neurological changes were asked. Baseline mobility, bladder and bowel management were compared with changes during and after pregnancy. RESULTS 121 women of childbearing age were followed per year by our adult multidisciplinary spina bifida clinic between 2009 and 2016. We identified 6 women who successfully carried 8 pregnancies to term. There were no miscarriages. Four women had ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunts. No children were born with neural tube defects. Mean age at first pregnancy was 23.5 years. Average gestational age at delivery was 37 weeks. 50% of the women had a spontaneous vaginal delivery. Five of six women intended to get pregnant; only one patient consumed folic acid regularly prior to pregnancy. Two of six women had bladder augmentation surgery, one of whom had urologic changes during pregnancy that persisted after childbirth. The other patient had a concomitant bladder neck sling procedure and did not have urologic issues during pregnancy. 50% of the patients experienced bladder-bowel dysfunction during their pregnancy. While 67% patients had full baseline ambulatory function, 4 patients had decreased mobility and required additional assistance during pregnancy. All returned to their baseline functionality afterwards. CONCLUSION Six of our patients had eight successful pregnancies, with no children born with neural tube defects. New changes to mobility, bladder and bowel management were experienced by over half of the women during their pregnancies. Future studies should focus on the role of multidisciplinary teams in reproductive health education and perinatal management of changes to activities of daily living during pregnancy in this population.
Mechanical Properties of Dry Ceramic Powders and Wet Ceramic Suspensions

This chapter discuses the fundamentals of suspension rheology from dilute suspensions to concentrated suspensions. The rheological properties are used with the Cauchy equation of motion to predict the velocity profiles, wall shear stress, and the pressure distribution in the mold. The rheological properties are used with the Cauchy equation of motion. The rheology of concentrated ceramic suspensions is very important for good mold filling. For concentrated suspensions that are colloidally stable (by steric means, giving a hard sphere model), there is a particle volume fraction where the particles come into contact, giving a random close packed network. The mechanical properties of dry ceramic powders have been discussed in terms of the Coulomb yield criterion, which gives the stress necessary for flow (or deformation) of the powder. The mechanical properties of dry ceramic powders and wet ceramic suspensions must be controlled to have dry powders that flow into molds for dry pressing and deform during pressing, suspensions that flow into slip cast molds, and pastes that can be stamped into objects, extruded into shapes, or injection molded.
Arterial compliance is increased in children with type 2 diabetes compared with normal weight peers but not obese peers.

Background We reported that obesity was associated with increased arterial compliance in children, possibly due to accelerated vascular maturation. Here, we explored the additional burden of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) on vascular function in children. Methods Fifty normal weight [body mass index (BMI) 25–75%], 58 obese (BMI ≥ 95%), and 34 children with T2DM diagnosed by American Diabetes Association (ADA) criteria ages 10–18 yr were studied. Large and small artery elasticity (LAEI and SAEI, respectively) were measured by diastolic pulse-wave contour analysis. Results SAEI was 27% higher in children with T2DM compared to normal weight children (p = 0.005). Mean LAEI for those with T2DM not different from either group. In the group with T2DM, both SAEI and LAEI increased with age up to 16 yr, but declined thereafter. The strongest multivariable model predicting SAEI in children with T2DM combined lean mass, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and glucose (r2 = 0.59); for predicting LAEI, the strongest model included height, SBP, and low-density lipid-cholesterol (r2 = 0.61). Conclusion The lower arterial compliance in older adolescents with T2DM compared to that of their peers without diabetes may indicate a premature maturation of the vascular system; however, follow-up will clarify whether these vascular changes portend an early increase in diabetes-associated cardiovascular disease risk.
Neural Network Principles

Neuron physics and state equations simple networks complex networks vision systems hand-eye systems advanced design methods brain control and modulation systems philosophical implications.
Parametrizations of the Poisson-Schr\"odinger Equations in Spherical Symmetry

We consider the asymptotically flat standing wave solutions to the Poisson-Schrodinger system of equations known as static states. These solutions can be parameterized using a variety of choices of two continuous parameters and one discrete parameter, each having a useful physical-geometrical interpretation. The values of the discrete variable determines the number of nodes (zeros) in the solution. We use numerical inversion techniques to analyze transformations between various informative choices of parametrization by relating each of them to a standard set of three parameters. Based on our computations, we propose explicit formulas for these relationships. Our computations also show that for the standard choice of continuous variables, the zero-node ground state yields a minimum value of a geometrically natural discrete variable. We give an explicit formula for this minimum value. We use these results to confirm two related observations from previous work by the author and others, and suggest additional applications and approaches to understand these phenomena analytically.
The peripheral adenomatoid odontogenic tumour: a case report: Adenomatoid tumour, odontogenic tumour

An 11-year-old male presented with a localised erythematous gingival enlargement of the anterior maxillary gingiva and an associated deep facial pocket. Biopsy specimens were obtained. Histopathological examination of the submitted tissue showed a cystic lining consisting of proliferating odontogenic epithelium with spindle-shaped cells forming small ductules and well-formed duct-like structures lined by pseudo-stratified columnar epithelium. A diagnosis of peripheral adenomatoid odontogenic tumour (PAOT) was rendered. The PAOT is a rare entity that can present as an erythematous gingival swelling, similar to an epulis or fibroma. Dentists should be aware that unusual pathological entities can have a variety of presentations and that definitive diagnosis may require submission of tissue for histopathological examination.
Penetration of insecticides through isolated sections of the mouse digestive system: effects of age and region of intestine.

Abstract Penetration of five insecticides (dimethoate, DDT, dieldrin, malathion, and carbaryl) was studied in a closed in vitro system. Differences in penetration were found among insecticides with preparations from different sections of the digestive tract and among mice of different ages.
Electroantennogram responses of mediterranean fruit fly,Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Tephritidae) to trimedlure and itstrans isomers.

Electroantennograms (EAGs) of unmated laboratory-reared male and femaleCeratitis capitata (Wiedemann) were recorded in response to the attractant trimedlure [tert-butyl 4(and 5)-chloro-trans-2-methylcyclohexane-1-carboxylate] and its fourtrans isomers. For both sexes, the magnitude of the EAG response was relatively low as compared to other previously tested compounds (i.e., plant volatiles). Dosage-response curves generated for all TML isomers revealed that flies responded to increasing dosages over a relatively narrow range (two to three log steps). Responses for both sexes peaked at ca. 10 μg dose for all isomers. Antennal response in males was greatest to the C isomer followed by the B1, A, and B2 isomers, while responses of females were greatest for the A isomer followed by B1, C, and B2. Both sexes exhibited a long recovery period for the response potential to return to baseline at doses above 1 μg for all of the isomers tested, except for B2. The low EAG sensitivity to trimedlure and the apparent EAG selectivity to the C isomer in males are discussed in relation to the known field attractancy of males to the C, A, B1, and B2 isomers.
Channel-coupling effects in high-energy hadron collisions.

The two-gluon model of the Pomeron predicts strongly size-dependent high-energy hadron cross sections. Yet experimental cross sections for radially excited mesons appear surprisingly close in value. The strong coupling of these mesons in hadron collisions also predicted by the model permits a qualitative understanding of this puzzling behavior in terms of eigenmode propagation with a common eigen-{sigma}. A detailed semiempirical coupled-channel model of the Pomeron is constructed to elucidate this and other features of high-energy hadron cross sections. {copyright} {ital 1996 The American Physical Society.}
An Evaluation of a State Hepatitis Prevention and Control Program: Focus Group Interviews With Clients:

This article presents the results of the qualitative component of a comprehensive evaluation of a state hepatitis prevention and control program. The qualitative component of the evaluation was designed to assess the motivational factors behind clients seeking hepatitis-related services and explore their experiences with the services provided by local health departments. The transtheoretical model was employed as a means of identifying the stage of change the client was in and what processes of change were useful in moving the client through the various stages of change. Focus groups were conducted with 44 participants in six different counties in Florida. Results of the focus group interviews support the use of the transtheoretical model in program evaluation using focus group methods. The findings of the focus groups suggest the need for education of the public and health care providers regarding hepatitis and the importance of supportive relationships to clients seeking and receiving hepatitis screenin...
Uncertainty associated with segmenting structure in echocardiographic images

The four main goals of this paper are as follows: First, address the different types of uncertainty and variability encountered when designing algorithms for automatic estimation of the epicardial and endocardial borders in 2D echocardiographic short- axis image sequences. Second, indicate certain choices forced by the setting. Third, indicate requirements expected of the algorithm. Fourth, address the question of what criteria should be used to decide when a method is a success and point out that wall-thickness, chamber area, and the area change fraction tend to be unstable calculations.