cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Brain macrophages: on the role of pericytes and perivascular cells

Pericytes are a unique cell group intimately associated with the vasculature and that appear to be present in most tissues. Their presence is generally considered to be restricted to the microvessels - arterioles, venules and particularly capillaries, where there is little or no smooth muscle. Morphologically, the pericytes exhibit a small, oval cell body with multiple processes extending for some distance along the vessel axis; these primary processes then give rise to orthogonal secondary branches which encircle the vascular wall. Through this morphology and their close association with the vasculature, the contour of the cells conforms to that of the adjacent vascular element; also, they are usually enclosed within the basal lamina of the microvasculature. While many earlier studies suggested brain pericytes as a source of macrophage activity, recent results substantiate this functional role; these recent findings include the demonstration of macrophage markers, phagocytosis and antigen presentation. Coupled with current knowledge on the entry of lymphoblasts into brain tissue and perivascular areas as potentially being the primary site of cellular interactions for production of immune responses, this places the pericytes in a position to significantly contribute to central nervous system (CNS) immune mechanisms. They may in fact be the population of brain macrophages most instrumental in the initiation of an immune response. Although these cells constitutively express several macrophage properties, they are also capable of up-regulation to display the full range of macrophage functional activity. At least, some of the pericytic macrophages are located on the surface of the basal lamina as opposed to completely within it; however, their potential transformation into microglia of the parenchyma remains an open issue. In addition to their function as macrophages, pericytes appear to serve a host of other functional roles. They are contractile and seem to serve as a smooth muscle equivalent in the capillaries performing vasoconstriction; they regulate endothelial cell properties and contribute to the stability and maintenance of blood vessels; and they appear to directly participate in coagulation through the extrinsic pathway. Also, pericytes have been suggested to be pluripotential and serve as precursors for a variety of other cell types. From these functional roles, comes their involvement in various disease processes. In association with the macrophage function, they are involved in numerous autoimmune and infectious diseases. Through their vascular role, they are involved in diabetic retinopathy and inflammation. Also, the pericytes appear to have involvement in Alzheimer's as well as other diseases. Thus, these cells are presented not only as macrophages but as a group with broad functional activities and significant potential for contributing to disease states.
Touring the Tomato: A Suite of Chemistry Laboratory Experiments.

An eight-session interdisciplinary laboratory curriculum has been designed using a suite of analytical chemistry techniques to study biomaterials derived from an inexpensive source such as the tomato fruit. A logical progression of research-inspired laboratory modules serves to “tour” the macroscopic characteristics of the fruit and the submicroscopic properties of its constituent cuticular biopolymers by atomic force microscopy (AFM), UV–visible, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) methods at increasingly detailed molecular levels. The modular curriculum can be tailored for specialty undergraduate courses or summer high school workshops. By applying analytical tools to investigate biopolymers, making connections between molecular and microscale structure, and linking both structural regimes to the functional properties of natural polymers, groundwork is established for further student investigations at the interface of chemistry with biology or chemical engineering.
Basic Biology of Skeletal Aging: Role of Stress Response Pathways

Although a decline in bone formation and loss of bone mass are common features of human aging, the molecular mechanisms mediating these effects have remained unclear. Evidence from pharmacological and genetic studies in mice has provided support for a deleterious effect of oxidative stress in bone and has strengthened the idea that an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) with advancing age represents a pathophysiological mechanism underlying age-related bone loss. Mesenchymal stem cells and osteocytes are long-lived cells and, therefore, are more susceptible than other types of bone cells to the molecular changes caused by aging, including increased levels of ROS and decreased autophagy. However, short-lived cells like osteoblast progenitors and mature osteoblasts and osteoclasts are also affected by the altered aged environment characterized by lower levels of sex steroids, increased endogenous glucocorticoids, and higher oxidized lipids. This article reviews current knowledge on the effects of the aging process on bone, with particular emphasis on the role of ROS and autophagy in cells of the osteoblast lineage in mice.
Pain-Patient MMPI Subgroups: The Psychological Dimensions of Pain

Two-hundred-forty male pain patients were given the MMPI and an extensive pain history questionnaire. A hierarchical clustering procedure was used, and three distinct profiles emerged. One profile was essentially “normal,” while a second profile revealed the “hypochondriasis” configuration, and a third was highly elevated on scales which reflect a “psychopathological” type of profile. A discriminant analysis yielded functions correctly classifying over 90% of the subjects in each group. Although the three groups did not significantly differ on age, education, income, IQ, assertiveness, type of pain, or years of pain duration, they did differ on the pain history questions relating to pain severity and pain impact on their lives. The psychopathological group reported significantly more distress than the hypochondriasis group, and the hypochondriasis group reported significantly more distress than the normal group. The implications for pain treatment are discussed.
Color M-mode Doppler flow propagation velocity in cardiac tamponade: Reply

The recent implementation of new Doppler echocardiographic methods for the assessment of diastolic function has improved our understanding of this complex entity. Standard indices of transmitral flow are hampered by their dependency on loading conditions and left ventricular (LV) relaxation and have
Model for the Deformation of Hyperstoichiometric UO2

The results of deformation studies of stoichiometric and hyperstoichiometric uranium dioxide single crystals are briefly reviewed. The observed differences in slip system and dislocation substructure are rationalized in terms of a proposed model for the deformation of hyperstoichiometric single crystals.
Growth-restricted premature infants are at increased risk for low thyroxine.

Abstract Objective: To evaluate, in extremely premature infants, the relationship between growth restriction and early total thyroxine levels, and to determine how maternal, prenatal, perinatal and neonatal variables influence the relationship. Study design: 719 infants born at four medical centers in Massachusetts, New York and New Jersey between 1991 and 1993 were studied. Entry criteria included: gestational age 23–30 weeks, birth weight 500–1500 g, and a serum thyroxine level obtained in the first week of life. Infants born to mothers with a history of thyroid disease were excluded. Birth weight and total thyroxine level are expressed as z -scores (standard deviation units) to adjust for their relationship to gestational age. Results: In linear regression analysis, there was a 0.18 decrease in the total thyroxine z -score for each 1.0 (1 standard deviation unit) decrease in birth weight z -score ( p =0.0001). Adjustment for multiple potential maternal, prenatal, perinatal and neonatal confounders failed to identify a factor or factors that could account for the observed association. Conclusions: The early total thyroxine level in extremely preterm infants was significantly associated with birth weight z -score. This relationship persisted even after adjustment for maternal, prenatal, perinatal and neonatal confounders suggesting antenatal influences. Of clinical importance, growth-restricted infants are at increased risk for early hypothyroxinemia and, possibly, to its related morbidities.
An Integral Equation Analysis of Inelastic Shells

An integral equation formulation for the analysis of elastic and inelastic shells of arbitrary shape, subjected to arbitrary loading, is presented in this paper. Numerical results are presented for inelastic deformation of axisymmetric shells. These results are compared against finite element method (FEM) solutions.
Reading Culture: Using Literature To Develop C2 Competence.

: This article describes a qualitative research project designed to explore the relationship between the study of a FL literary text and the development of competence in a second culture (C2). The study compared the attitudes and performances of students who read a fact sheet about Cote d'Ivoire and the attitudes and performances of students who studied a poem about Cote d'Ivoire. We found that the students who read the fact sheet learned about the culture of Cote d'Ivoire in a rigid way that could foster stereotypes. Students who read the poem, on the other hand, explored their own feelings about the language and content of the poem. The study supports the notion that literary texts contribute to students' affective awareness and cognitive flexibility, and are therefore more effective for developing C2 competence. This study suggests ways to achieve the goals, articulated in the national standards, of fostering knowledge about and understanding of other cultures.
Covert congenital cardiovascular malformations discovered in an autopsy series of nearly 5,000 cases.

Abstract The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of covert congenital cardiac malformations. A retrospective analysis was made of a personal series of 4,953 consecutive postmortem examinations performed over 35 years (1946–1980) in a mixed urban and rural region of North Lincolnshire, England. The subjects were 4,210 adults and 743 children (under the age of 16 years). There were 1,635 hospital cases and 3,318 coroner's cases; of the latter, 2,651 were instances of sudden and unexpected death. Four adults and 99 children with known or suspected congenital heart disease were excluded from the analysis. Of the remaining 4,850 cases, 25 had benign covert cardiovascular malformation (0.52%), and in approximately 54 more a covert malformation was considered to have been a possible contributor to death. This latter group consisted of 44 cases of bifoliate calcified aortic valves, 6 cases of cardiomyopathy, and 4 miscellaneous cases. As sudden deaths were grossly over-represented in the series, an approximate correction factor reduced the prevalence of this group to 0.16%, giving a prevalence of 0.68% for all covert cases. According to these data, the true prevalence of congenital cardiac malformations is probably about twice that of the generally accepted level in live births. The implications for epidemiological studies pertinent to the etiology of congenital heart disease are indicated.
Truancy Programs: Are the Effects Too Easily Washed Away?:

Truancy has been identified as a risk factor of criminal behavior but results are mixed as to the best means to reduce this school-based concern. The Truancy Prevention Initiative has been implemented in New Orleans post-Hurricane Katrina under the direction of the Recovery School District to reduce levels of truancy, increase graduation rates, and decrease youth crime. This article emphasizes the statutes and ordinances behind this initiative in order for it to be compared to current evidence-based literature to forecast its effectiveness. In addition, social disorganization and deterrence theories are used to analyze the foundational elements of the Truancy Prevention Initiative. The Truancy Prevention Initiative is a promising program that requires process and outcome evaluations to draw a stronger conclusion of its effectiveness.
Rx: A Tincture of Coercion in Outpatient Treatment?

Mental health professionals and others have wondered about the mesources necessary to conduct involuntary outpatient treatment and whether these dollars will be well spent. While we do not yet know the answer to this question, and while sound legal structures through which to conduct involuntary outpatient treatment continue to evolve, knowledgeable commentators none- the less call for the widespread use of involuntary outpatient treatment (1). Concurrently, lawyers with a civil liberties perspective call for its demise (2,10). Neither call is sound. No death knell is warranted. But we do need more data to confirm what I believe to be the case—coerced outpatient treatment appropriately applied is a therapeutic endeavor that is both beneficent and beneficial.
Physical and Functional Interaction between Protocadherin 15 and Myosin VIIa in Mechanosensory Hair Cells

Hair cells of the mammalian inner ear are the mechanoreceptors that convert sound-induced vibrations into electrical signals. The molecular mechanisms that regulate the development and function of the mechanically sensitive organelle of hair cells, the hair bundle, are poorly defined. We link here two gene products that have been associated with deafness and hair bundle defects, protocadherin 15 (PCDH15) and myosin VIIa (MYO7A), into a common pathway. We show that PCDH15 binds to MYO7A and that both proteins are expressed in an overlapping pattern in hair bundles. PCDH15 localization is perturbed in MYO7A-deficient mice, whereas MYO7A localization is perturbed in PCDH15-deficient mice. Like MYO7A, PCDH15 is critical for the development of hair bundles in cochlear and vestibular hair cells, controlling hair bundle morphogenesis and polarity. Cochlear and vestibular hair cells from PCDH15-deficient mice also show defects in mechanotransduction. Together, our findings suggest that PCDH15 and MYO7A cooperate to regulate the development and function of the mechanically sensitive hair bundle.
Effect of deicing solutions on the tensile strength of micro- or nano-modified asphalt mixture

Abstract This paper reports on the potential benefits of micro- or nano-sized materials for asphalt mixtures used on pavements, specifically when they are exposed to water or deicing solutions. Asphalt mixtures were prepared with various amount of nanoclay and/or carbon microfiber, and compacted using the Superpave™ gyratory compactor. Moisture susceptibility and deicer impacts were assessed by exposing the samples to water or deicing chemicals (NaCl, MgCl 2 and CaCl 2 ), and seven freeze–thaw cycles, in a modified AASHTO T283 test. Comparisons of micro- or nano-modified asphalt mixtures exposed to deicers are made based on results of indirect tensile strength tests, which preliminarily demonstrate the great potential of using microfibers and nanoclays in asphalt mixture for improved performance. Based on the results, it was found that the addition of nanoclay and carbon microfiber would improve a mixture’s moisture susceptibility performance or decrease the moisture damage potential in most cases. The detailed effects of deicing solutions on the tensile strength of micro- or nano- modified asphalt mixture are discussed in this paper.
Toward an Economy of Well-Being

Drawing on survey findings from around the world, Graham explores the relation between happiness and income and considers its implications for social policy.
La spécificité de la formation en milieu de travail : un survol des contributions théoriques et empiriques récentes

Cette recension des ecrits a pour objet la specificite de la formation formelle, dans le cadre precis du capital humain. Nous nous concentrerons tout particulierement sur la formation formelle payee et generalement dispensee par les entreprises. Une distinction supplementaire sera egalement apportee entre la formation formelle, se tenant en classe ou en seminaire, et la formation sur le tas. Nous debuterons par un bref examen des modeles pertinents, presentant d’abord la theorie classique pour ensuite passer a des modeles plus recents. Suivra un apercu des donnees disponibles dans divers pays, et qui ont ete utilisees dans le cadre de nombreuses etudes empiriques. Toujours dans l’optique de la specificite du capital humain creee par la formation formelle, les etudes repertoriees feront ensuite l’objet d’un examen critique. Ce faisant, nous porterons une attention particuliere a la coherence entre les modeles theoriques et les mesures du capital humain disponibles. Nous conclurons notre recension en formulant des suggestions sur les facons de combler les lacunes relevees.
Drug Migration during Drying of Tablet Granulations I: Effect of Particle Size of Major Diluent

Migration of a water-soluble drug, propoxyphene hydrochloride, during drying of tablet granulations was studied. Wet granulations of the drug were prepared using lactose as the major diluent and corn starch as a disintegrant. Particle-size fractions of lactose ranging from 53 to 177 μm in diameter were employed in different granulations to examine the effect of particle size of the major diluent on drug migration. Determination of drug concentration at various depths in a dried granulation bed was accomplished by using a drying cell consisting of four layers. A numerical coefficient of migration was developed to compare the extent of drug migration in the various lactose granulations. Migration increased with decreasing particle size of the major diluent, lactose. Two factors that may contribute to increased migration with smaller particles are increased entry suction due to decreased intragranular capillary size and increased intergranular contact area.
Material Polarization and Dispersion

The present chapter is designed to serve as a bridge between the polarization discussion of Chapter 2 and the anisotropie propagation theme of Chapter 4, as well as to stand on its own as adescription of the relationship between the microscopic and the macroscopic pictures of the interaction of light and matter.
Vanguardia y violencia en el Cono Sur: Bolaño relee a Arlt

Este articulo discute la interseccion entre vanguardismo y violencia en las obras de Roberto Arlt (El juguete rabioso, Los siete locos/Los lanzallamas) y Roberto Bolano (Estrella distante). Se empieza por inscribir a Arlt en un vanguardismo caracterizado por la naturaleza violenta y criminal de la fusion vanguardista del arte y la vida. A continuacion se analiza, en la novela de Bolano, la recontextualizacion neovanguardista y la evaluacion etica del vanguardismo arltiano. El articulo concluye afirmando la persistencia, matizada por la autoconciencia critica, de un “vanguardismo de la violencia” en la literatura del Cono Sur.
Neural Crest-Derived Valve Interstitial Cells Calcify In The Klotho-Deficient Mouse Model Of Aortic Valve Disease

Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) is characterized by calcification and stenosis of the valve. Cell lineage studies were performed to determine if the developmental origin of a valve interstitial cell (VIC) predetermines its calcific potential. Neural crest (NC)-derived cells in the skull calcify during normal bone formation, therefore, it is hypothesized that NC-derived VICs are primed to calcify in CAVD. In this study, klotho-deficient (Kl-/-) mice were used as a model of CAVD as they develop robust aortic valve (AoV) calcification. Parallel lineage-tracing experiments in wild type and Kl-/- mice from crosses with Tie2-Cre, Wnt1-Cre, and Mef2cAHF-Cre were performed to follow endothelial-, NC-, and second heart field (SHF)- derived VICs respectively. In normal AoVs, endothelial- and SHF- derived VICs contribute broadly to all leaflets, whereas NC-derived VICs are found primarily in the right and left coronary leaflets and in the hinge region of all three leaflets. In the calcific lesions of Kl-/- mice...
Crystal-Phase Control by Solution–Solid–Solid Growth of II–VI Quantum Wires

A simple and potentially general means of eliminating the planar defects and phase alternations that typically accompany the growth of semiconductor nanowires by catalyzed methods is reported. Nearly phase-pure, defect-free wurtzite II–VI semiconductor quantum wires are grown from solid rather than liquid catalyst nanoparticles. The solid-catalyst nanoparticles are morphologically stable during growth, which minimizes the spontaneous fluctuations in nucleation barriers between zinc blende and wurtzite phases that are responsible for the defect formation and phase alternations. Growth of single-phase (in our cases the wurtzite phase) nanowires is thus favored.
Annual Basis Carbon (ABC) Analysis of Biofuel Production at the Facility Level

Liquid biofuels such as ethanol and biodiesel are considered important renewable replacements for petroleum fuels such as gasoline and diesel. Biomass-based energy carriers are traditionally treated as inherently carbon neutral, so that only the fossil-based carbon dioxide (CO2) and other non-CO2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with their production are counted when assessing their global warming impact. This accounting convention is embedded by construction in lifecycle assessment (LCA) models, which on a direct basis (i.e., excluding economically induced effects) often find that biofuels from efficient industrial agricultural production systems reduce GHG emissions relative to their fossil fuel counterparts. LCA modeling can be subjected to an independent empirical test that bounds a biofuel's potential GHG reduction within the dynamics of the terrestrial carbon cycle. Such a test can be performed using annual basis carbon (ABC) accounting, which entails spatially and temporally explicit analysis of the direct GHG exchanges between the atmosphere and a physical vehicle-fuel system. An ABC case study of a corn ethanol biorefinery and the farmland that supplies it shows that using the ethanol it produced instead of gasoline provided no significant reduction in GHG emissions, in contrast to an LCA result that found a 40% GHG reduction for the same facility. ABC accounting reveals that the renewable ethanol so produced was not carbon neutral when substituting for gasoline, and sensitivity analysis indicates that its net GHG emissions impacts are likely to higher than those of petroleum gasoline in practice.
Assessing the effectiveness of a healthy homes training.

This pilot study assessed the effectiveness of a National Center for Healthy Housing training model on understanding common hazards. An additional objective was to look at local interest in establishing a healthy homes training program in Arkansas. The study involved an intensive 2-day training model with the use of pre- and post-surveys of 69 participants from various invited public health fields. These surveys were administered before and after the training to test for significant change in understanding of healthy home concepts. Proficiency skill level ratings showed significant improvement (all p < 0.0001) in perceived learning across all topic areas. Participants showed post-training improvement in knowledge-based questions in most, but not all topic areas. Study results show improvements are needed in specific training areas addressing skills to keep the home dry and ventilated. The current training model is effective as a potential healthy homes training program; however, some areas of training cou...
Bypass Graft for Femoral Artery Involvement by Metastatic Carcinoma of the Penis

Abstract We report a case of metastatic penile carcinoma deeply involving the inguinal lymph nodes and femoral vessels. Management by 2-stage revascularization of the extremity with obturator bypass graft followed by wide groin dissection is described and alternative therapies are discussed.
Unternehmensarchitekturen: von historischen Strukturen umzingelt

Mobilitat hatte jahrtausendelang viel mit Pferden zu tun. Bis vor etwa hundert Jahren der Siegeszug des Automobils begann und damit das Zeitalter der Massenproduktion gleicher Produkte auch im Mobilitatsbereich einsetzte. Die Digitalisierung stellt nun alles wieder auf den Kopf und fuhrt uns – auf eine neue und andere Weise – vom im Prinzip gleichartigen, vorgefertigten Produkt fur jedermann wieder zuruck zur jeweils individuellen Losung. In der Automobilindustrie mit ihren jahrzehntelang gewachsenen, seit Henry Fords Zeiten an der Fahrzeugarchitektur orientierten Strukturen weis man aber oft noch nicht so genau, welchen Weg man in die digitale Zukunft nehmen soll. Individualisierte Fahrzeuge? Vernetzte Fahrzeuge? Gemeinschaftsfahrzeuge? Ideen gibt es viele. Wie aber erganzt man das bestehende Geschaftsmodell mit ihnen?
Abstract 1286: Cytokine response of stromal cells to prostate cancer chemotherapeutics

Non-responsiveness to chemotherapeutic drugs presents a significant challenge to the effective treatment of advanced prostate cancer. Exploration of the therapeutic response in prostate cancer has largely focused on the epithelial tumor cells. However, evidence suggests that the tumor microenvironment may modulate response to chemotherapeutics. The tumor microenvironment consists of immune, fibroblastic, and vascular cells, as well as extracellular matrix (ECM) and stromal-derived soluble factors, all of which contribute to interactions within the tumor microenvironment. It has been demonstrated that tumor cells cross-talk with stromal cells, to establish a protective niche at primary and distant sites and to facilitate survival of cancer cells. Such tumor-stroma cell cross-talk often involves secreted factors, such as cytokines. Previous studies have illustrated the importance of cytokines and cytokine receptors as modulators of drug response. In this study, we sought to identify cytokine factors expressed in response to drugs clinically used to control prostate cancer. To obtain the expression profiles, we conducted a human cytokine and chemokine array, which consisted of 84 specific genes. Analysis of the prostate cancer and stromal cells treated with Docetaxel (4nM), Enzalutamide (30μM) and Bicalutamide (30μM) revealed differential expression patterns. The effect of chemotherapeutics on the expression of the cytokine IL-16 and its cognate receptors CD9 and CCR5 in prostate cancer and stromal cell lines was further examined. We found IL-16 expression increased several fold following chemotherapeutic treatment in stromal cell lines compared to prostate cancer cell lines. To validate gene expression, we examined the expression of IL-16 and its receptors by RT-PCR. All experiments were performed in triplicates. Student t- tests were used to determine the statistical significance between groups. IL-16 expression increased following exposure to chemotherapeutics in stromal cell lines. CCR5 expression showed a decrease in PC3 prostate cancer cells but no significant changes were observed in LNCaP cells. CD9 expression showed an increase in both LNCaP and PC3 cell lines. Collectively, these results indicate that chemotherapy of prostate cancer may alter the expression of IL-16 and its receptors. We hypothesize that IL-16 is a soluble stromal factor that is expressed in response to anticancer drugs, and may have paracrine activity on neighboring cells that express the cognate receptors. Citation Format: Dominique Gales, Clayton C. Yates, Temesgen Samuel. Cytokine response of stromal cells to prostate cancer chemotherapeutics. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 107th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2016 Apr 16-20; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(14 Suppl):Abstract nr 1286.
Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome

Among disorders of circadian rhythm, Delayed Sleep-Wake Phase Syndrome is common in adolescents and young adults, a population that has a natural endogenous shift towards later bedtimes. In the current edition of the International Classification of Sleep Disorders (ICSD-3) it is now listed as Delayed Sleep-Wake Phase Disorder (DSWPD). Genetic, environmental, social, and behavioral factors play important roles in the development and perpetuation of this disorder. Delay in the ability to fall asleep at conventional times in affected individuals gives the appearance of sleep-onset insomnia. However, the affected individuals sleep for a normal amount of time if they do not have a social obligation to wake up at a conventional time. Usually, no problems with sleep maintenance are described. If sleep is curtailed due to social obligations, daytime consequences of DSWPD may occur, including sleep inertia, excessive daytime sleepiness, mood changes, cognitive deficits, or decline in academic performance. These may trigger excessive caffeine intake or substance use. A comprehensive sleep history with sleep logs and actigraphy (if available) are essential for an appropriate diagnosis of DSWPD. A number of treatment options exist including phase shifting (advancing or delaying), melatonin, bright light therapy, and improvement in sleep hygiene. Comorbid sleep disorders must be carefully screened for and excluded. Successful outcomes hinge very much on school and family cooperation as well as the patient’s motivation for change.
The NK and NKT Cell Compartment Is Suppressed in CML Patients before and after Imatinib Treatment.

In CML patients, lymphocyte subsets have been shown to be disturbed. NK cells as well as CD8+ T cells have been shown to be significantly lower in patients with relapse after BMT than without relapse (Jiang et al., 1996). After successful treatment (IFN- α and BMT/SCT), MHC-restricted CD8+ T cells as well as MHC-unrestricted cytotoxic NK and lymphokine activated killer (LAK) cells play an important role in controlling the disease (Meseri et al., 1993, de Castro et al., 2003, Molldrem et al., 2000), which can lead not only to hematological, but also cytogenetic responses. The development of imatinib mesylate, a selective inhibitor of the bcr/abl tyrosine kinase, as a first-line therapy enormously enhanced treatment options for CML patients, and has led to hematologic, and occasionally cytogenetic, responses at various stages of disease. To explore, if CML patients, who develop clinical responses with imatinib mesylate treatment, have normalization of their lymphocyte subsets with restoration of CD8+ and NK cells, we studied peripheral blood T cell, B cell, and NK cell subpopulations in patients in chronic or accelerated phase before and after treatment with imatinib mesylate. In 5 CML patients, 8-color flow cytometry was applied to investigate the lymphocyte subsets using anti-CD3, anti-CD4, anti-CD8, anti-CD19, anti-CD56, anti-CD25, anti-CD27, and anti-CD45RA antibodies. 5 healthy donors served as controls. There was no significant difference in CD19+ B cells or CD3+ T cells as well as its CD4+ and CD8+ subsets between CML patients and healthy controls. T regulatory cells (CD4+CD25+) were also similar in patients in comparison to the healthy controls (0.6% – 3% vs 2.3%). In contrast, CD3–CD56+ NK cells (4% vs 14%, p<0.05) as well as NK T cells (CD3+CD56+ 1% vs 14%, p<0.02; CD8+CD56+ 2% vs 17%, p<0.03) were profoundly decreased in CML patients compared to the healthy controls prior to treatment with imatinib mesylate. Importantly, these abnormalities persisted even during treatment and following hematological responses (range 10 months – 35 months) (CD3-CD56+ 4–8%, CD3+CD56+ 0.5–5.5%, CD8+CD56+ 2.7–7%). On further analysis, these NK and NKT cells were mostly effector (CD45RA+CD27−, 50–80%) or memory (CD45RA-CD27+, 10–30%) cells. These results suggest, that CML not only disturbs the myeloid and the lymphoid compartment before treatment, but persistently impairs the MHC-unrestricted cytotoxic NK cells and NKT cells after treatment with imatinib mesylate, even in patients in hematological (and cytogenetic) remission with normal white cell counts (2.0 – 8.0/nl). Further investigations are required to better understand the mechanism of the prolonged and specific NK and NKT cell suppression in imatinib mesylate treated patients, and its impact on the course of the disease.
A breath of fresh air for umbilical cord blood

In this issue of Blood, Aljitawi et al demonstrate for the first time that erythropoietin (EPO) signaling directly inhibits hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell (HSPC) migration and that an acute and transient reduction in peripheral EPO levels, via hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy just before transplant, is safe and can enhance hematopoietic engraftment in patients undergoing umbilical cord blood transplantation (UCBT).1
Robotic hepatic arterial infusion pump placement.

Abstract Background Hepatic artery infusion pump (HAIP) placement is associated with improved outcomes in the treatment of colorectal liver metastases (CRLM). In this study, we examined outcomes following robotic HAIP placement, which were compared with open and laparoscopic placement. Methods A retrospective review of HAIP placements by 2 surgeons at a single institution was carried out. All statistical tests were 2-sided and p Results There were a total of 53 open HAIP cases, 21 laparoscopic cases, and 24 robotic cases. Robotic HAIP placement was associated with a significantly lower conversion rate to open operation than laparoscopic pump placement (17 vs. 67%; p = 0.0009). When cases with concomitant resections were excluded, there was a trend towards shorter median length of hospital stay with robotic pump placement compared with open and laparoscopic placement (4 vs. 5 vs. 5 days, respectively; p = 0.09). Complication rates were equivalent among the 3 groups when concomitant resections were excluded. Conclusion Robotic HAIP placement is a safe minimally-invasive procedure that is associated with a significantly lower conversion rate to open operation compared with laparoscopic placement and a trend towards shorter hospitalization compared with open placement.
Regulation of Sterol Biosynthesis in the Human Fungal Pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus: Opportunities for Therapeutic Development

Sterols are a major component of eukaryotic cell membranes. For human fungal infections caused by the filamentous fungus Aspergillus fumigatus, antifungal drugs that target sterol biosynthesis and/or function remain the standard of care. Yet, an understanding of A. fumigatus sterol biosynthesis regulatory mechanisms remains an under developed therapeutic target. The critical role of sterol biosynthesis regulation and its interactions with clinically relevant azole drugs is highlighted by the basic helix loop helix (bHLH) class of transcription factors known as Sterol Regulatory Element Binding Proteins (SREBPs). SREBPs regulate transcription of key ergosterol biosynthesis genes in fungi including A. fumigatus. In addition, other emerging regulatory pathways and target genes involved in sterol biosynthesis and drug interactions provide additional opportunities including the unfolded protein response, iron responsive transcriptional networks, and chaperone proteins such as HSP90. Thus targeting molecular pathways critical for sterol biosynthesis regulation presents an opportunity to improve therapeutic options for the collection of diseases termed aspergillosis. This mini-review summarizes our current understanding of sterol biosynthesis regulation with a focus on mechanisms of transcriptional regulation by the SREBP family of transcription factors.
Large inverse-scattering solutions with DBIM on GPU-enabled supercomputers

We report inverse-scattering solutions on supercomputers involving large numbers of graphics processing units (GPUs). The distorted-Born iterative method (DBIM) is employed for the iterative inversions. In each iteration, the required forward problems are distributed among computing nodes equipped with GPUs, and solved with the multilevel fast multipole algorithm. A tomographic reconstruction of a synthetic object with a linear dimension of one hundred wavelengths is obtained on 256 GPUs. The results show that DBIM obtains images approximately four times faster on GPUs, compared to parallel executions on traditional CPU-only computing nodes.
Race-Ethnic Disparities in Cardiometabolic Risk Profiles among Stroke Survivors with Undiagnosed Diabetes and Prediabetes in the United States.

Background and Purpose Up to 25% of the U.S. population has undiagnosed diabetes. Diabetes and stroke both disproportionately afflict race/ethnic minorities. We assessed race/ethnic differences in the prevalence of undiagnosed diabetes, prediabetes, and cardiometabolic risk profiles among stroke survivors in the United States. Methods The prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes among adults (≥20 years) with a self-reported history of stroke was assessed using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) from 1999 to 2010. Cardiometabolic risk factors across race/ethnic groups were compared using linear and logistic regression before and after adjusting for covariates. Results From 1999 to 2010, 1070 individuals who participated in NHANES had a self-reported history of stroke. Among stroke survivors without a formal diagnosis of diabetes and prediabetes, 233 (32%) had undiagnosed prediabetes and 27 (3.7%) had undiagnosed diabetes. The prevalence of undiagnosed diabetes and prediabetes was the highest among non-Hispanic (NH) blacks (8% and 38%) compared with Mexican Americans (4% and 26%) and NH whites (3% and 32%). Compared with NH whites, NH blacks were significantly younger, more likely to take antihypertensive medications, more likely to smoke, and have poorly controlled diabetes. NH blacks were twice as likely as NH whites to have poorly controlled blood pressure, after adjustment for sociodemographic and vascular risk factors. Conclusion In the United States, NH black stroke survivors have the highest rates of undiagnosed diabetes and prediabetes, and have poorer cardiometabolic risk factor control than their NH white counterparts.
FDSOI design experience and recommendations

22FDX™ is new technology from GLOBALFOUNDRIES based on Fully-Depleted-Silicon-on-Insulator (FDSOI). Its transistor architecture consists of a thin layer of semiconductor material on top of a body-oxide. On the top side, a planar leading-edge MOS-transistor is formed. From the bottom, the wells have electrostatic influence through the body-oxide, which is large enough to shift the transistor threshold voltages between high-performance- and low-leakage operation. The tutorial will give an introduction to the technology and show the digital design reference flow from GLOBALFOUNDRIES, which has been developed for 22FDX. Particular emphasis will be given on how to use FDSOI for low-power designs using the back-gate bias. Also, design examples will be exposed and results will be discussed.
Antibody Responses to Citrullinated and Noncitrullinated Antigens in the Sputum of Subjects With Rheumatoid Arthritis and Subjects at Risk for Development of Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Objective The location and mechanisms involved in the initial generation of autoantibodies to citrullinated and noncitrullinated proteins/peptides during the natural history of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) development is incompletely understood. This study sought to explore individual antibody responses to citrullinated and noncitrullinated proteins/peptides in the sputum and associations with neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in subjects at risk for the future development of RA. Methods Serum and sputum samples were obtained from 41 RA-free subjects who were considered at risk for the development of RA based on familial or serologic risk factors, from 20 subjects classified as having RA, and from 22 healthy control subjects. Samples were evaluated using a bead-based array for IgG reactivity to 29 citrullinated proteins/peptides and 21 noncitrullinated proteins/peptides. Cutoff levels for antibody positivity were established in a separate control group. NET levels in the sputum were measured using sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays that quantitate DNA-myeloperoxidase and DNA-neutrophil elastase complexes. Results In at-risk subjects, antibody responses to the citrullinated forms of fibrinogen, apolipoprotein E, and fibronectin were highly prevalent. The most citrulline-specific antibodies in the sputum of at-risk subjects were those to fibrinogen, vimentin, and peptides of fibrinogen A and apolipoprotein A1. Patterns of sputum autoantibody positivity differed between at-risk subjects and subjects with RA. In at-risk subjects, increasing sputum NET levels significantly correlated with several citrullinated and some noncitrullinated antibody reactivities. Conclusion These findings suggest that sputum antibody reactivity to particular citrullinated and noncitrullinated proteins/peptides is specific for RA and for subjects at risk of RA, and the association of these proteins/peptides with NETs may be a key feature of early RA-related autoimmunity in the lung. These results further support the hypothesis that the lung plays a role in early RA-related autoimmunity.
Accessing mars recurring slope lineae: Mobility systems analysis

Recurring Slope Lineae, RSL, are visible steaks on the sides of Martian craters and other steep landforms with three distinct characteristics: i) they occur seasonally, ii) they lengthen with time, and iii) they fade. Recently, 474 RSL-like (>= 1 characteristic) and 69 RSL (all 3 characteristics) sites have been identified and are located in four primary regions of Mars: Chryse and Acidalia Planitiae, Valles Marineras, the Equatorial highlands, and the Southern Mid-Latitudes. There are several hypotheses that explain the origin of RSL, ranging from the motion of dry, granular material downhill, to the presence of underground aquifers. These hypotheses can be partially resolved by proximal ( = 1km) observations. However, complete disambiguation can only be achieved through surface contact science. The Jet Propulsion Laboratory recently conducted a study into the methods by which a landed asset could access RSL sites to assist in the separation of RSL hypotheses. During this study, 8 of the 69 RSL sites were considered to be landable based on their latitude, elevation, topography, and ability to support an 8 km landing ellipse. In this paper, the accessibility of these sites is detailed through a discussion of their geometry, terrain types, slope and surface roughness. Particular attention is paid to three craters: Selevac, Andapa, and Garni, which were assessed to be strong candidates for scientific investigation. The challenges of accessibility provide the basis for which an assessment of the concepts of operation of 22 architectures is given. Though individually assessed, these concepts can be broadly compiled into balloon, helicopter, missile, and ground ascent/descent groups. First order sizing, power, and mass calculations for each group are detailed along with their advantages and concept specific challenges. The merits of each concept is assessed as a function of the science they enable, technology readiness and feasibility, cost, and risk. A ranking matrix is presented along with selected weightings. Based on the results of the trade study, the highest rated concepts are identified and their next stages of analysis and development are proposed.
Quantifying the Effect of Transplanting Older Donor Livers Into Younger Recipients: The Need for Donor-recipient Age Matching.

BackgroundIncreasing recipient and donor age are independently associated with survival after liver transplantation (LT). Whether donor age differentially impacts post-LT outcomes based on recipient age is unknown.MethodsThis was a retrospective cohort study using Organ Procurement and Transplantati
Tumors of the Mouth, Pharynx, Nose, and Paranasal Sinuses

Tumors of the mouth, pharynx, nose, and paranasal sinuses are commonly encountered in general surgical pathology practice. Some, such as squamous cell carcinoma, resemble homonymous tumors in other parts of the body, whereas others, such as olfactory neuroblastomas, are unique to this anatomic region. This chapter limits the discussion to the tumors that are most often graded by surgical pathologists.
Evaluating the Short- and Long-term Effects of a Modified Deliberative Poll on Idahoans' Attitudes and Civic Engagement Related to Energy Options

Deliberative polling engages citizens in a process of dialog, exposure to information, and interaction with experts, with the goal of developing more informed, stable attitudes and promoting civic engagement. There have been relatively few assessments of deliberative polling’s short-term effects and even fewer on its long-term effects. Moreover, most assessments examine aggregate changes in attitudes, although theory would suggest that changes might be idiosyncratic, especially in situations where balanced information is provided. This study examines the effects of a one-day modified deliberative poll regarding energy options for the state of Idaho. Using quantitative data from pre-tests, an immediate post-test (n=61), and a follow-up post-test eight months later (n=44), as well as qualitative data from interviews, this study explored preferences for five energy options and how participation affected civic engagement. We also report on participants’ assessments of the deliberative poll itself. Results show few significant changes in aggregate attitudes, with the exception that preference for nuclear power declined after the deliberative poll event. However, examining within-subjects data revealed that up to approximately 30% of participants exhibited substantive changes in their preferences, both immediately after the event and several months later. The extent of changes between the post-test and delayed post-test reinforces that attitudes are affected by individuals’ life circumstances, and suggests participation did not lead to highly enduring attitude changes. There was little evidence that participation led to increased civic engagement, either through communicating what was learned with others or through becoming more politically active
Notes on the Theory of Constitutive Equations

The object of these lectures is to present the manner in which constitutive equations in mechanics and other branches of continuum physics can be formulated in a systematic manner on the basis of clearly stated concepts of the type of physical behavior that it is intended to model. In order to do this, we have first to decide on the variables which it is appropriate to relate to each other, in view of the physical situations to which it is intended to apply the constitutive equations. Secondly, we have also to consider such questions as the smoothness of the relations between these variables, since different assumptions regarding continuity or differentiability of the constitutive relations can radically alter the physical behavior which they model.
Development of motor control in vertebrates

Three general applications of modeling in experimental neurobiology will be presented. In the first instance the focus will be on the development of synapses during embryogenesis. After a presentation of some background material, modeling approaches to 1) synapse formation at the level of light microscopy and 2) the resulting ultra structure at the level of electron microscopy will be discussed. The third application involves a model for muscle cell innervation driven by activity dependent competition between synapses. Rules for this process, based on empirical studies, are incorporated into the presented model, which explains and predicts synapse elimination and the development of the size principle substantially better than previous approaches.