cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Accuracy of patient specific organ-dose estimates obtained using an automated image segmentation algorithm

The overall goal of this work is to develop a rapid, accurate and fully automated software tool to estimate patient-specific organ doses from computed tomography (CT) scans using a deterministic Boltzmann Transport Equation solver and automated CT segmentation algorithms. This work quantified the accuracy of organ dose estimates obtained by an automated segmentation algorithm. The investigated algorithm uses a combination of feature-based and atlas-based methods. A multiatlas approach was also investigated. We hypothesize that the auto-segmentation algorithm is sufficiently accurate to provide organ dose estimates since random errors at the organ boundaries will average out when computing the total organ dose. To test this hypothesis, twenty head-neck CT scans were expertly segmented into nine regions. A leave-one-out validation study was performed, where every case was automatically segmented with each of the remaining cases used as the expert atlas, resulting in nineteen automated segmentations for each of the twenty datasets. The segmented regions were applied to gold-standard Monte Carlo dose maps to estimate mean and peak organ doses. The results demonstrated that the fully automated segmentation algorithm estimated the mean organ dose to within 10% of the expert segmentation for regions other than the spinal canal, with median error for each organ region below 2%. In the spinal canal region, the median error was 7% across all data sets and atlases, with a maximum error of 20%. The error in peak organ dose was below 10% for all regions, with a median error below 4% for all organ regions. The multiple-case atlas reduced the variation in the dose estimates and additional improvements may be possible with more robust multi-atlas approaches. Overall, the results support potential feasibility of an automated segmentation algorithm to provide accurate organ dose estimates.
"Organizing for Breakthrough Innovation: Leadership, Structures, and Processes"

Progress has been made in the scholarly literature in developing our understanding of factors that may contribute to success in commercializing breakthrough innovation, yet our approach has been pi...
Abstract 4723: Macrophages foster neoplastic progression of malignant mesothelioma and limit response to chemotherapy.

We, and others, have previously reported that macrophages infiltrating mammary adenocarcinomas foster late-stage cancer progression 1-3 , and that targeted therapies diminishing macrophage presence in tumors, and improve response to standard chemotherapy (CTX) resulting in slowed primary tumor growth, reduced pulmonary metastasis and increased overall survival (OS) of tumor-bearing mice 4,5 . These experimental studies correlate with clinical findings indicating that high densities of CD68 + myeloid cells correlate with reduced OS in patients with breast cancer 6 . Malignant mesotheliomas (MM), a rare cancer that can develop as a result of prior asbestos exposure, is highly resistant to conventional cytotoxic therapy 7 , and in the pleural space is associated with significant densities of macrophages that also correlate with decreased OS 8 . To investigate a functional role for macrophages in fostering neoplastic progression of MM, and/or in limiting response to CTX, we investigated the efficacy of several antagonists targeting the colony stimulating factor-1 (CSF1)/CSF-1 receptor (CSF1-R) CSF-1R signaling cascade to reveal the functional significance of macrophages in MM, and to determine if this class of agents exhibited efficacy as monotherapy, or in combination with CTX, to improve OS of tumor-bearing mice. Using a syngeneic orthotopic mouse model for MM, our results indicate that reducing the presence of macrophages in MM significantly slows early, as well as late-stage MM growth, and improves response to standard-of-care CTX. These experimental findings indicate a protumoral role for macrophages in MM, and support clinical investigation of targeted therapies, in combination with CTX, for treatment of patients with MM. 1. Lin et al., J Exp Med 193, 727-740 (2001). 2. DeNardo et al., Cancer Cell 16, 91-102 (2009). 3. Gocheva et al., Genes Dev 24, 241-255 (2010). 4. DeNardo et al., Cancer Discov 1, 54-67 (2011). 5. Shree et al., Genes and Development in press(2011). 6. Campbell et al., Breast Cancer Res Treat 128, 703-711 (2011). 7. Sugarbaker et al., Expert Rev Respir Med 4, 363-372 (2010). 8. Burt et al., Cancer 117, 5234-5244 (2011). The authors acknowledge generous support from the NIH/NCI, Dept of Defense (DoD) Era of Hope Scholar Award Expansion Award, Susan G. Komen Fndt, Breast Cancer Research Fndt, and an Investigator-Initiated Research Award in Mesothelioma from the DoD. Citation Format: Collin Blakely, Tina Bose, Melissa Wheeler, Raphael Bueno, David Sugarbaker, David Jablons, V. Courtney Broaddus, Lisa Coussens. Macrophages foster neoplastic progression of malignant mesothelioma and limit response to chemotherapy. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4723. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-4723
Mesothelin expression in pancreatic mucinous cysts.

Objectives: Mesothelin (MSLN) is a differentiation antigen found to be overexpressed in intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) and is a potential treatment target in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Methods: From institutional archives, 114 cases of resected pancreatic mucinous cysts were identified, including IPMN and mucinous cystic neoplasm (MCN). Immunohistochemical analysis of MSLN was performed on representative sections. Results: MSLN was seen more frequently in neoplastic epithelial cells from IPMN (39/52; P < .0005) and MCN (9/14; P < .0001) compared with unremarkable adjacent pancreatic and bile ducts (0/57) and benign foveolar and duodenal epithelium (0/21). When present, MSLN was diffusely expressed in neoplastic epithelium and only focally expressed in adjacent ducts (8/57). No significant difference was seen ( P = .26) in MLSN expression between IPMN (79%) and MCN (83%) when only presence or absence was considered. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that MLSN can be used as a marker of neoplastic transformation of epithelial cells in pancreatic mucinous cysts. The findings can help identify neoplastic mucinous epithelium.
Effects of Post-Deposition Processing on the Ultimate Grain Size in Metastable Semiconductor Thin Films to be Used in IR Detectors

Through post-deposition annealing in a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), we have manufactured both thin (200 nm) and bulk (8000 nm) single phase films of crystalline Ge1-xSnx, using rf sputtering. The Sn concentrations produced ranged up to 31 at.%, well beyond the solid solubility limit of this system. There was a marked difference, in the asdeposited structure, between thick and thin films produced under the same deposition conditions. Quantitative models for both systems are given in this paper and were deduced frorn DSC measurements in conjunction with electron microscopy. The metastable crystalline state in the thin films formed by nucleation and growth from an amorphous phase; whereas in the thick films, the desired phase was already present in the as-deposited films and only growth of preexisting grains was observed upon post-deposition annealing. When annealed to high temperature, the Sn phase separates from the alloys and we postulate here that it does so by nucleation and growth of β-Sn. With this hypothesis, the Sn separation in the 8000 nm thick films was accurately modeled by a two-mechanism process, however, in the 200 nm thick films, only one phase separation mechanism was necessary to accurately fit the data. Both models were corroborated by the subsequent melting behavior of the phase separated Sn which, though it varied depending on the sample being measured, always exhibited a melting endotherm starting 25–35°C lower than the bulk melting temperature of Sn. Speculation on the reasons for this are presented.
The Classification and Injury Patterns of Iatrogenic Bile Duct Injury During Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Iatrogenic bile duct injury is a rare but potentially catastrophic complication of cholecystectomy. Prompt recognition and treatment are required to minimize the morbidity associated with these injuries. Numerous classification systems have been described to facilitate the study and management of these complications, yet no individual system has been universally adopted. This chapter discusses the major classification systems and compares them based upon their inclusivity of injury type, the ease of use of the system, and the prognostic value associated with the classification. Further research into the prognostic significance of the various injury types is needed, and such research may help to ultimately determine which classification system is adopted as the universal system going forward.
Beta-adrenergic blockade attenuates insulin resistance induced by tumor necrosis factor

The macrophage secretory product tumor necrosis factor (TNF) impairs insulin action on peripheral glucose uptake and hepatic glucose output. Because circulating catecholamines are also elevated by TNF, the present study was performed to determine the role of the adrenergic system in eliciting the insulin resistance. Human recombinant TNF (1 microgram.h-1.kg-1) was infused intravenously into chronically catheterized fasted rats for approximately 18 h. Before TNF, an infusion of either saline, propranolol (nonselective beta-antagonist), atenolol (selective beta 1-antagonist), or phentolamine (alpha-antagonist) was started and continued throughout the experimental protocol. Infusion of either the alpha- or beta-receptor antagonist failed to prevent the TNF-induced increase in basal glucose uptake or hepatic glucose output. Under euglycemic hyperinsulinemic conditions, whole body glucose disposal was lower in TNF-infused rats than in control animals. This resulted from a decreased rate of insulin-stimulated glucose uptake by skeletal muscle, skin, and intestine. In propranolol-infused rats, but not in those receiving atenolol or phentolamine, the TNF-induced decrease in whole body glucose uptake was partially prevented. Propranolol attenuated the development of peripheral insulin resistance by selectively preventing the decrease in glucose uptake by skeletal muscle but not by skin and ileum. Propranolol was also able to ameliorate the hepatic insulin resistance produced by TNF. These results suggest that beta-adrenergic stimulation, probably mediated by a beta 2-adrenergic mechanism, is partially responsible for the development of both peripheral and hepatic insulin resistance in animals infused with TNF.
Addressing Human Subjectivity via Transfer Learning: An Application to Predicting Disease Outcome in Multiple Sclerosis Patients.

Predicting disease course is critical in chronic progressive diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS). In our work we are applying machine learning methods to longitudinal records of MS patients to build a classifier that predicts whether a patient will have a significant increase in disability at the five year mark using information from the first two years of clinical visits. This prediction is key for choosing among the available treatments as some have more troubling side-effect profiles. Two challenges arise while learning with this data. First, patient data involves the physician’s (possibly subjective) evaluation. Because a patient’s data may come from one doctor on the first visit and different doctors on subsequent visits, it can be difficult to form an accurate predictor of disease outcome. In particular, some physicians may be biased in one direction, scoring each patient as more severe than would other physicians, while others may be biased in the opposite direction. Another challenge is that it is much easier to classify the cases with low future disability compared to cases with high future disability at early stages of the disease. This asymmetric property is due to the nature of the disease rather than class imbalance. In this paper we introduce a new transfer learning approach to handle these challenges. The algorithm builds a single SVM classifier for each doctor by dividing the entire dataset into primary (instances from the doctor) and auxiliary (instances from other doctors) sets. When applied to our dataset of MS patients our new approach is able to realize a significant increase in prediction performance over approaches that form a single SVM classifier for the entire dataset or for the physician’s dataset alone.
Recent ψ(2S) and ηc results from BES

We report measurements of branching fractions for ψ(2S) decays into ωπ+π−, b1π, ωf2(1270), ωK+K−, ωpp, φπ+π−, φf0(980), φK+ K−, and φpp final states based on a data sample of (4.02± 0.22) × 106 ψ(2S) events collected with the BESI detector at the Beijing Electron-Positron Collider. Cross sections for e+e− → e+e−, hadrons, π+π− J/ψ, and μ+ μ− have been measured in the vicinity of the ψ(2S) resonance using the BESII detector. The ψ(2S) total width; partial widths to hadrons, π+π− J/ψ, and muons; and corresponding branching fractions have been determined to be Γt = 264 ± 27 keV; Γh = 258 ± 26 keV, Γμ = 2.44 ± 0.21 keV, and Γπ+π− J/ψ = 85.4 ± 8.7 keV; and Bh = (97.79 ± 0.15)%, Bπ+π− J/ψ = (32.3 ± 1.4)%, Bμ = (0.93 ± 0.08)%, respectively. Decays of J/ψ → γηc are used to determine preliminary values for the mass and width of the ηc using a sample of 58 M J/ψ events: Mηc = (2977.4 ± 0.9 ± 2.6) MeV and Γηc = (15.7 ± 3.8 ± 10.0) MeV.
Dilemma: Cliënt wil mij als enige zorgverlener

Een cliente wil dat alleen wijkverpleegkundige Olga haar ulcus cruris komt verzorgen. Moet Olga hiermee instemmen?
Formations of Femininity: Science and Aesthetics in Facial Feminization Surgery.

ABSTRACTFacial feminization surgery (FFS) is a set of bone and soft tissue reconstructive surgical procedures intended to feminize the faces of trans- women in order to make their identities as women recognizable to others. In this article, I explore how the identification of facial femininity was negotiated in two FFS surgeons’ practices. One committed to the metrics of normal skeletal form and the other to aspirational aesthetics of individual optimization; I argue that surgeons’ competing clinical approaches illustrate a constitutive tension in the proliferating therapeutic logics of trans- medicine. The growing popularity of surgical practices like FFS demonstrates a shift in American trans- therapeutics away from a singular focus on the genitalia as the location of bodily sex and toward understandings of sex as a product of social recognition.
Effects of iodination on the distribution of peptide hormones in aqueous two-phase polymer systems.

1. The effect of iodination on the distribution of peptide hormones into the aqueous two-phase dextran–polyethylene glycol system and on the solubility of these hormones in aqueous polyethylene glycol and in water was assessed. Hormones that were studied included insulin, glucagon and parathyroid hormone. 2. The partition coefficient of native insulin in the dextran–polyethylene glycol system showed a minimum (about 1) near the isoelectric point of the hormone (pH 5). Partial iodination of insulin (one atom per molecule) caused little change in the distribution of the hormone. More extensive iodination markedly decreased the partition coefficient in the region of the isoelectric point and displaced the pH value at which the partition coefficient was a minimum towards lower values. 3. The solubility of native insulin in aqueous polyethylene glycol and in water showed a pH-dependence similar to that observed for the distribution in the dextran–polyethylene glycol system. Iodination of insulin decreased the solubility of the hormone in polyethylene glycol and in water in parallel, and decreased the pH value at which solubility was a minimum. The changes in solubility correlated with the degree of iodination and accounted for the changes in distribution observed at high concentrations of insulin. 4. Comparable effects of iodination on distribution and solubility were also observed with glucagon. 5. At concentrations of insulin below its maximum solubility, serum proteins caused a decrease in the partition coefficient of iodinated hormone, but not of native hormone. These effects correlated with the degree of iodination and resulted from a co-precipitation of iodinated insulin with serum proteins.
Effect of Parenting and Peer Stressors on Cognitive Vulnerability and Risk for Depression among Youth

Parenting behaviors influence clinical depression among youth, but little is known about the developmental processes that may account for this association. This study investigated whether parenting is associated with the onset of clinical depression and depressive symptoms through negative cognitive style, particularly under conditions of high exposure to stressors, in a community sample of children and adolescents (N = 275; 59% girls). Observational methods were used to assess positive and negative parenting during a laboratory social-evaluative stressor task. Depressive symptoms and clinical depressive episodes were repeatedly assessed over an 18-month prospective follow-up period. Results supported a conditional indirect effect in which low levels of observed positive parenting during a youth stressor task were indirectly associated with an increased likelihood of experiencing an episode of depression and worsening depressive symptoms over the course of the study through youth negative cognitive style, but only for youth who also experienced a high number of peer stressors. These findings elucidate mechanisms through which problematic parenting may contribute to risk for the development of clinical depression during the transition into and across adolescence. Implications for depression interventions are discussed.
How Common Is the Ponticulus Posticus?: A Computed Tomography Based Analysis of 2917 Patients.

Study design A computed tomography (CT) study of the morphology of the C1 vertebra. Objective Is to determine the prevalence of ponticulus posticus (PP) by analyzing CT scans performed on a large, diverse population in the northeast United States. This study also proposes a CT-based classification system both to aid in unifying the description of PP, and to aid in future research. Summary of background data The prevalence of PP varies from 5% to 68% in published studies. There may be geographic variation in the prevalence of PP. Our objective was to establish the prevalence of PP in the general population, and to develop a comprehensive classification system to describe PP. Methods We evaluated cervical spine CT scans performed on patients in the emergency room of a level I trauma center over a 1-year period (January 1, 2014-December 31, 2014). The CT images were evaluated for the presence of a PP, and if present the following demographic data were collected: age, sex, race/ethnicity, and body mass index (BMI). We propose a novel classification system to standardize the description of PP identified on CT scan. Results Two thousand, nine hundred and seventeen cervical spine CT scans were reviewed in this study. The prevalence of PP was 22.5%. Men had a higher prevalence of PP than women (53.5% male vs. 46.5% female P ≤ 0.01). When compared with the overall population, African-Americans were more likely to have a PP (P ≤ 0.01), while Caucasian patients were less likely (P ≤ 0.01). The novel classification consisted of a two letter designation for each patient, with the first letter denoting the right sided arch and the second letter the left sided arch. Each side of the arch described as an A, B, or C type. The A type had no presence of a PP, B type had in incomplete PP, and C type had a complete PP. The most common type of a PP was CC encompassing 25% of the patients. The presence of a PP was more common in the left sided arch than the right side (B and C type Left 89.2% vs. B and C type Right 84.7%, P = 0.02). Conclusion We found a 22.5% prevalence of PP in 2917 patients undergoing a cervical spine CT. This is the largest study to evaluating the prevalence of PP. Level of evidence 4.
Intestinal resection-associated metabolic syndrome.

Abstract Background Short bowel syndrome occurs following massive small bowel resection (SBR) and is one of the most lethal diseases of childhood. We have previously demonstrated hepatic steatosis, altered gut microbiome, and increased fat deposition in our murine model of SBR. These novel findings prompted us to investigate potential alterations in glucose metabolism and systemic inflammation following intestinal resection. Methods Male C57BL6 mice underwent 50% proximal SBR or sham operation. Body weight and composition were measured. Fasting blood glucose (FBG), glucose, and insulin tolerance testing were performed. Small bowel, pancreas, and serum were collected at sacrifice and analyzed. Results SBR mice gained less weight than shams after 10weeks. Despite this, FBG in resected mice was significantly higher than sham animals. After SBR, mice demonstrated perturbed body composition, higher blood glucose, increased pancreatic islet area, and increased systemic inflammation compared with sham mice. Despite these changes, we found no alteration in insulin tolerance after resection. Conclusions After massive SBR, we present evidence for abnormal body composition, glucose metabolism, and systemic inflammation. These findings, coupled with resection-associated hepatic steatosis, suggest that massive SBR (independent of parenteral nutrition) results in metabolic consequences not previously described and provides further evidence to support the presence of a novel resection-associated metabolic syndrome.
Use of Peer Paraprofessionals to Diagnose and Teach Reading/Study Skills

(1982). Use of Peer Paraprofessionals to Diagnose and Teach Reading/Study Skills. Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the Western College Reading Association: Vol. 15, Proceedings of the Fifteenth Annual Conference of the WCRA. Theme: Focus on You, pp. 108-111.
Fibrillar Bundles in the Nucleus of Blood Lymphocytes from Leukemic and Nonleukemic Patients

Fibrillar bundles were found in the nuclei of blood lymphocytes from 15 of 30 normal individuals. Similar fibrils were found in three of 16 cases of chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and in one of eight cases of Hodgkin’s disease. Nuclear bundles when observed in a sample were found only in small numbers. No points of continuity between the nuclear and the cytoplasmic fibrils could be found.
Testing and ideology: policy debates about literacy assessments for Colorado’s bilingual students

The Colorado Reading to Ensure Academic Development Act requires grade-level attainment in literacy in English for students in grades K-3. Its practical outcome, however, has been to pressure schoo...
Narrowing transient testing pulse widths to enhance LWR RIA experiment design in the TREAT facility

Abstract The Transient Reactor Test (TREAT) Facility provided thousands of transient irradiations and plays a crucial role in nuclear-heated safety research. The facility’s flexible design and multi-mission nature saw historic experiments for numerous reactor fuels and transient types but was never specifically adapted to address very-brief pulse transients akin to postulated Light Water Reactor (LWR) Reactivity Initiated Accidents (RIA). Since the behaviors of fuel under these conditions depends strongly on energy input duration and resulting cladding time/temperature response under pellet cladding mechanical interactions, this three-year project was conceived to investigate new pulse-narrowing capabilities. Kinetic models showed incremental improvements for minor facility enhancements including increased reactivity step insertions (to initiate the power pulse) and slightly-increased transient rod drive speed for pulse termination (“clipping”). Replacing peak fuel assemblies, repositioning non-transient control rods to hold down the “hot side” of the core, and balancing against required excess reactivity needs, the limiting fuel assembly power can be reduced by ∼20%. This is a remarkable discovery of latent capability in TREAT, not only in enabling the subject capabilities for reduced pulse widths, but also significantly “uprating” the core’s transient energy capacity. Incremental improvements can likely enhance TREAT’s capability into BWR-relevant missions; briefer PWR pulse shapes can only be achieved with an advanced clipping system. Helium-3 (3He) was found to offer the greatest benefits for clipping design and overall performance. A unique concept showed great promise for enabling a 3He-based system with a reasonable cost; this design concept will likely become the focal point of future work.
Mechanical proofreading: A general mechanism to enhance the fidelity of information transfer between cells

The cells and receptors of the immune system are mechanically active. Single molecule force spectroscopy, traction force microscopy, and molecular tension probe measurements all point to the importance of piconewton (pN) molecular forces in immune function. For example, forces enhance the ability of a T cell to discriminate between nearly identical antigens. The role of molecular forces at these critical immune recognition junctions is puzzling because mechanical forces generally facilitate bond dissociation, potentially increasing the difficulty for a receptor to recognize its cognate antigen. The advantage molecular forces confer in the process of immune recognition is not clear. Why would cells expend energy to exert force on the critical, but tenuous bonds that mediate immune surveillance? Do molecular forces provide some advantage to the immune system? The premise of this review is that molecular forces provide a specificity advantage to immune cells. Inspired by the recent discovery that receptor forces regulate immune signaling in T cells and B cells, we dub this notion “mechanical proofreading,” akin to more classic kinetic proofreading models. During the process of mechanical proofreading, cells exert pN receptor forces on receptor-ligand interactions, deliberately increasing the energy cost of the immune recognition process in exchange for increased specificity of signaling. Here, we review the role of molecular forces in the immune system and suggest how these forces may facilitate mechanical proofreading to increase the specificity of the immune response.
Hemorrhagic Cholecystitis: A Case of Expedited Diagnosis by Point-of-Care Ultrasound in the Emergency Department.

Abstract Background Hemorrhagic cholecystitis is a rare complication of acute cholecystitis and is a potentially fatal diagnosis. It may be difficult to detect because the symptoms are similar to more common diagnoses. Point-of-care ultrasound is a useful imaging technique in the emergency setting and is readily available to allow for immediate interpretation and application of the results to guide medical decision making. Case Report We report a 76-year-old man with a history of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, atrial fibrillation on warfarin, and coronary artery disease presenting with epigastric pain radiating to the back, nausea, and vomiting who was found to have hemorrhagic cholecystitis with gallbladder perforation. Ultrasound of the abdominal right upper quadrant showed a large, hyperechoic, nonshadowing, globular structure visualized within the lumen of the gallbladder extending from the neck through the body. The gallbladder wall was noted to be 0.72 cm with wall edema, focal pericholecystic fluid, and a positive sonographic Murphy sign suggestive of acute cholecystitis. The abnormal appearance of the gallbladder contents was suspected to be blood. Computed tomography angiography was performed and confirmed the diagnosis of acute hemorrhagic cholecystitis with perforation. Blood was noted to track from the cystic duct to the gallbladder lumen. Why Should an Emergency Physician be Aware of This? To our knowledge, this is a unique case of hemorrhagic cholecystitis visualized on bedside ultrasound. This case shows that the use of point-of-care ultrasound by emergency medicine providers can facilitate the rapid recognition and treatment of specific, life-threatening hepatobiliary pathology while excluding alternate diagnoses.
Interleukin 22 ameliorates neuropathology and protects from central nervous system autoimmunity

Abstract IL-22 has opposing effects in different tissues, from pro-inflammatory (skin, joints) to protective (liver, intestine) but little is known about its effects on neuroinflammation. We examined the effect of IL-22 on retinal tissue by using the model of experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU) in IL-22−/− mice, as well as by intraocular injections of recombinant IL-22 or anti-IL-22 antibodies in wild type animals. During EAU, IL-22 was produced in the eye by CD4+ eye-infiltrating T cells. EAU-challenged IL-22−/− mice, as well as WT mice treated systemically or intraocularly with anti-IL-22 antibodies during the expression phase of disease, developed exacerbated retinal damage. Furthermore, IL-22−/− mice were more susceptible than WT controls to glutamate-induced neurotoxicity, whereas local IL-22 supplementation was protective, suggesting direct or indirect neuroprotective effects. Mechanistic studies revealed that retinal glial Muller cells express IL-22rα1 in vivo, and in vitro IL-22 enhanced their ability to suppress proliferation of effector T cells. Finally, IL-22 injected into the eye concurrently with IL-1, inhibited the (IL-1-induced) expression of multiple proinflammatory and proapoptotic genes in retinal tissue. These findings suggest that IL-22 can function locally within the retina to reduce inflammatory damage and provide neuroprotection by affecting multiple molecular and cellular pathways.
High frequency (4th order) sequence stratigraphy of Early Miocene deltaic shorelines, offshore Texas and Louisiana

Abstract Well logs and 3D seismic reflection data are integrated to image Lower Miocene depocenters of the upper Texas and westernmost Louisiana coastal and offshore areas. Although previously interpreted at a large scale (3rd order cycles), the detailed stratigraphy and depositional history of the early Miocene succession has not been fully developed. The upper lower Miocene interval from Robulus L (MFS10) to Amphistegina B (MFS9) has been further subdivided into five 4th order cycles (each 200–300 m thick) to provide finer scale stratigraphic detail and interpretation of depositional environments. Results of the finer scale correlations are presented in a series of sandstone percent maps. Overall, the maps display a strike-elongate (sub-parallel to the present day coastline) orientation for the sandstone bodies which thin to the southeast (basinward). Net sandstone thickness is relatively low in older cycles and increases in younger cycles suggesting an overall progradation of the deltaic system into the mapped area through time. Continued marine regression and southward movement of the shoreline are also confirmed by seismic amplitude maps. After a major transgression associated with Robulus L deltaic progradation occurred under rising sea level conditions. Deltaic sediments prograded southward and sandstone brought to the upper Texas coast was distributed laterally by longshore currents to form strandplain coast lines. Maximum regression occurred during the interval MFS9_2 to MFS9_3 when a deltaic depocenter formed offshore Texas in east High Island area. However, sandstone thickness progressively decreased laterally to the east (offshore Louisiana) where more shale was present and marine processes reworked deltaic derived sandstones into shore parallel bars. There was a clear retreat of the shoreline during the youngest cycle marking the beginning of transgression associated with Amphistegina B. Detailed stratigraphic interpretation (at a 4th order scale) shows more variability in the dominant shoreline processes during early Miocene than previously thought. Recognition of sedimentary systems variability at a 4th order scale is critical for improved hydrocarbon exploration and in understanding potential future CO2 storage in the area.
Online sensor performance monitoring and fault detection for discrete linear parameter-varying systems

This paper proposes a fault detection algorithm to identify online sensor performance degradation and failure, where the sensor faults are characterised by variations of the sensor measurement noise covariance matrix. That is, the proposed algorithm estimates the slowly-varying sensor measurement noise covariance and detects the abrupt and/or intermittent change of sensor measurement noise covariance. A memory-based technique is used to detect the abrupt (or intermittent) change of sensor noise covariance matrix. The memory-based technique is adopted due to its simplicity and online applicability. The proposed algorithm originally is designed for discrete linear time-varying (DLTV) systems and applied to discrete linear parameter-varying (DLPV) systems. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm is capable of estimating the slowly-varying and detecting the abrupt (or intermittent) change of sensor measurement noise covariance for multiple-input and multiple-output discrete linear parameter-varying systems, where the scheduling parameters lie within a compact set. Furthermore, the proposed estimation algorithm shows a reasonable rate of convergence.
Divergent strategies to reduce stomatal pore index during water deficit in perennial angiosperms

Summary ⍰ Modulation of stomatal development may be an acclimation response to low water availability. However, stomatal development plasticity has been assessed in very few species. ⍰ We quantified leaf anatomy traits, including stomatal index (SI), density (SD), size (SS), and pore index (SPI), in response to water-deficit stress in river birch (Betula nigra L.), eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis L.), and silver maple (Acer saccharinum L.). ⍰ Birch and redbud, but not maple, had reduced SPI in response to water deficit. The mechanism by which SPI reduction occurred (via SD or SS) varied among species and with severity of water stress. Despite reduced SPI in birch and redbud, anatomical changes were relatively small and had a minor to no effect on the theoretical maximum stomatal conductance. Furthermore, gas-exchange rates were equivalent to well-watered plants following media re-irrigation. ⍰ In some tree species, stomatal development is downregulated in response to water deficit conditions. Stomatal development plasticity is facilitated by smaller or fewer stomata, depending upon the species and the intensity of the stress. Water-deficit-induced plasticity in stomatal development is species-specific, likely due to species adaptation to ecological niches.
Relocating Teacher Preparation to New Graduate Schools of Education.

The relocation of teacher preparation to new graduate schools of education (nGSEs) is a highly controversial “innovation” within the rapidly expanding field of teacher education. This introductory ...
Single versus dual antiplatelet therapy after transcatheter aortic valve replacement: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

Abstract Background Guidelines recommend dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) but guidelines predate the publication of the largest randomized trial. There have been few trials in the field to date, and with a small number of total patients; pooling their results may therefore be helpful. Methods We systematically identified all randomized trials comparing SAPT to DAPT after TAVR. The primary endpoint was the risk of major bleeding. Secondary endpoints included all bleeding, life-threatening bleeding, stroke, myocardial infarction, death and cardiac death. Results Four trials, randomizing 1086 participants, were eligible (541 randomized to SAPT and 545 randomized to DAPT). The weighted mean follow-up was 9.1 months. The risk of major bleeding was significantly increased after DAPT (relative risk (RR) 2.36, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.27 to 4.40, P = 0.007). There was a similar increased risk for all bleeding (RR 1.65, 95% CI 1.24 to 2.19, P Conclusions DAPT after TAVR is associated with an increased risk of major bleeding and all bleeding. There is no evidence of a significant difference between DAPT or SAPT for the risks of stroke, MI, death or cardiac death. However, the total number of patients randomized is small and the duration of follow-up is short. Larger scale randomized trials with longer follow-up are required to assess for any potential differences in ischemic endpoints or mortality.
Mass Spectrometry-Based Detection of Beta Lactam Hydrolysis Enables Rapid Detection of Beta Lactamase Mediated Antibiotic Resistance.

Objective Antibiotic resistance by beta lactamase expression is a serious and growing threat. We aimed to determine whether beta-lactamase activity is detectable in urine specimens to enable faster identification of resistance. Methods Urine specimens from patients with extended spectrum beta lactamase (ESBL)-expressing urinary infections were incubated with beta lactam antibiotics. Beta lactam hydrolysis was determined by mass spectrometry methods. Results Ceftriaxone hydrolysis was observed in 45 of 45 ESBL-containing specimens from patients not treated with a beta lactamase inhibitor before specimen collection. Ceftriaxone hydrolysis was not observed in 108 of 108 non-ESBL-containing specimens. Spiking studies show that beta lactam hydrolysis can be observed within 30 minutes. Beta lactam hydrolysis is evidenced by mass spectrometry preceded by either liquid chromatography or matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization specimen processing methods. Conclusion Clinically significant beta lactamase activity is detectable directly from urine specimens. The described methods would enable the detection of beta lactam resistance 24 to 48 hours sooner than culture based methods.
Increased dopamine transporter function as a mechanism for dopamine hypoactivity in the adult infralimbic medial prefrontal cortex following adolescent social stress.

Being bullied during adolescence is associated with later mental illnesses characterized by deficits in cognitive tasks mediated by prefrontal cortex (PFC) dopamine (DA). Social defeat of adolescent male rats, as a model of teenage bullying victimization, results in medial PFC (mPFC) dopamine (DA) hypofunction in adulthood that is associated with increased drug seeking and working memory deficits. Increased expression of the DA transporter (DAT) is also seen in the adult infralimbic mPFC following adolescent defeat. We propose the functional consequence of this increased DAT expression is enhanced DA clearance and subsequently decreased infralimbic mPFC DA availability. To test this, in vivo chronoamperometry was used to measure changes in accumulation of the DA signal following DAT blockade, with increased DAT-mediated clearance being reflected by lower DA signal accumulation. Previously defeated rats and controls were pre-treated with the norepinephrine transporter (NET) inhibitor desipramine (20 mg/kg, ip.) to isolate infralimbic mPFC DA clearance to DAT, then administered the selective DAT inhibitor GBR-12909 (20 or 40 mg/kg, sc.). Sole NET inhibition with desipramine produced no differences in DA signal accumulation between defeated rats and controls. However, rats exposed to adolescent social defeat demonstrated decreased DA signal accumulation compared to controls in response to both doses of GBR-12909, indicating greater DAT-mediated clearance of infralimbic mPFC DA. These results suggest that protracted increases in infralimbic mPFC DAT function represent a mechanism by which adolescent social defeat stress produces deficits in adult mPFC DA activity and corresponding behavioral and cognitive dysfunction.
MRI Instrumentation: Magnets, Gradient Coils, and Radiofrequency Coils

Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging requires three different types of magnetic fields. First, a static and highly uniform magnetic field, known as the main field, is required to create the initial longitudinal magnetization in the object and to maintain Larmor precession of nuclear spins at constant angular frequency. Second, an “r.f.” field is required for excitation of the transverse magnetization in the object. Highly linear magnetic field gradients (that can be turned on and off during a relatively short time) are essential for spatial localization in the MR imaging. Because of the different functions and required characteristics of the main field, r.f. field, and gradient field, they are produced by different devices known as magnets, r.f. coils, and gradient coils, respectively. This chapter describes the main types and characteristics of these devices. The purpose of magnets used for MRI is to produce a static, strong, and homogeneous magnetic (main) field. The required characteristics of the main field used for NMR imaging and spectroscopy are discussed. Spatial localization in MRI is achieved through the use of three orthogonal magnetic field gradients. The main functions of r.f. coils are to excite magnetization in a sample and to receive the signal produced by the excited magnetization. These two functions may be performed by using different transmitting and receiving r.f. coils.
Growth cone morphology and trajectory in the lumbosacral region of the chick embryo

We quantitatively analyzed several features of orthogradely labeled peripheral growth cones in the lumbosacral region of the chick embryo. We compared motoneuron growth cones in regions where they appear to express specific directional preferences (the plexus region and regions where muscle nerves diverge from main nerve trunks), which we operationally defined as “decision regions,” to motoneuron growth cones in other pathway regions (the spinal nerve, nerve trunk, and muscle nerve pathways) which we termed, for contrast, “non-decision region.” We found that motoneuron growth cones are larger, more lamellepodial, and have more complex trajectories in decision regions. Sensory growth cone populations, which are thought to be dependent upon motoneurons for outgrowth (Landmesser, L., and M. Honig (1982) Soc. Neurosci. Abstr. 8: 929), do not enlarge or become more lamellepodial in motoneuron decision regions, suggesting that this local environment does not affect all species of growth cones equally and that the alterations in motoneuron growth cones in these regions may be relevant to their specific guidance. In addition, the resemblance between the sensory population and other closely fasciculating growth cones lends support to the suggestion that sensory neurons utilize motoneuron neurites as a substratum. We suggest that the convoluted trajectories, enlarged size, and more lamellepodial morphology of motoneuron growth cones in decision regions is either related directly to the presence of specific cues that guide motoneurons or to some aspect of this environment that allows them to respond to specific cues.
“Cost” of virginity in wild Drosophila melanogaster females

Laboratory studies have revealed a significant “cost of mating” to Drosophila melanogaster females in the form of reduced longevity. The effect is attributable to nonsperm components of the ejaculate. Female D. melanogaster are known to mate up to six times in nature, and given that they do not typically remate daily, it raises the question as to the extent to which the longevity of wild mated females is reduced. Here I addressed this question by comparing the longevity of wild virgin females, collected as they emerged from rotting fruit, to the longevity of randomly collected mature females at the same site. Because the randomly collected females all were inseminated and were fully pigmented at the time of collection, they already were older than the virgins when the experiment began. Contrary to expectations from laboratory studies, the older, mated females lived significantly longer than the virgins. Rather than a “cost of mating,” there appears to be a “cost of virginity” to female D. melanogaster in the wild.
GaAs Solar Cell Radiation Handbook

History of GaAs solar cell development is provided. Photovoltaic equations are described along with instrumentation techniques for measuring solar cells. Radiation effects in solar cells, electrical performance, and spacecraft flight data for solar cells are discussed. The space radiation environment and solar array degradation calculations are addressed.
Restriction fragment length polymorphism in plants and its implications.

Botstein et al. (1980) were the first to outline convincingly how cloned pieces of eukaryotic DNA could be used as genetic markers. They pointed out that organisms differing in base sequence would be expected to yield fragments of different sizes when their DNA was digested with a suitable restriction enzyme. These DNA fragments could then be fractionated by size on an agarose gel and detected by hybridization with a cloned probe homologous to a portion of the fragment. Such differences in the size of restriction fragments were termed restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs), and they would be expected to arise from nucleotide changes in the DNA or by insertions, deletions, or other forms of rearrangement.
Biofeedback revisited: dynamic displays to improve health trajectories

This paper outlines an approach for prospective health technologies: systems that inspire changes in midlife to prevent onset and progression of disease. Motivational hooks related to wellness, appearance and relationship satisfaction are aligned with long term disease risks and supported through dynamic feedback displays. Wireless sensor networks, inferencing, ambient displays and mobile interfaces are explored to carry biofeedback into everyday life. Several examples of display concepts - created to facilitate self-regulation of social engagement, weight, physical exertion and stress reactivity - illustrate this approach. Future work will explore mind-body relationships and extend from informational displays to experiential feedback.
Epidemiological evidence and future perspective in kidney diseases

Epidemiological studies have been advanced in medicine including kidney diseases. We updated epidemiological evidence in kidney diseases. For acute kidney injury, although Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcome criteria was developed, further studies on the effects of fluid balance adjusted creatinine, minimum versus most recent baseline serum creatinine and the best surrogate baseline serum creatinine are required. For chronic kidney disease, we recently found a significant increased risk of chronic kidney disease in patients consuming sugar-sweetened soda, but not in patients consuming artificially sweetened soda. Interestingly, we found an inverse association between high alcohol consumption and risk for developing CKD in males. There is no significant association between high alcohol consumption and the risk for developing proteinuria or end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Future studies to identify these underlying mechanisms should be conducted. Journal of Nature and Science, 1(1):e 28 , 2015.
Basal motor activity of the distal colon: a reappraisal.

Abstract The significance of recent motor data on the distal colon in irritable bowel syndrome is obscured by methodological questions such as bowel preparation, variability and reproducibility of motor activity and segmental differences. Thirty subjects were studied after prior bowel cleansing with a water enema on two separate occasions 1 wk apart (10 with one bowel movement per day, 10 with two to three per week, and 10 with three to 12 per day). Two additional studies were performed in 10 of the subjects, one with and one without prior cleansing. The motility indices of the cleansed and unwashed colon were dissimilar. The motility index per 3 min varied markedly over 3 h, and the indices between the paired studies were rarely identical. Marked segmental differences were noted. The mean motility index per 3 min of the constipated and the diarrhea groups was significantly greater than that of normals only in the 15-cm segment. In view of these variables, caution should be exercised in the interpretation of basal motor activity of the distal colon.