cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Variation in detection of adenomas and polyps by colonoscopy and change over time with a performance improvement program.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: There has been no prospective, community-based study to track changes in adenoma detection by individual physicians over time and to determine the effectiveness of targeted educational interventions. METHODS: We prospectively collected information on 47,253 screening colonoscopies in average-risk individuals 50 years and older performed by a community-based practice in the Twin Cities of Minnesota. During a period of 3 years, 5 specific interventions were implemented; each was designed to improve adenoma detection rates. Controlling for patient-related and procedure-related factors, rates of adenoma detection and 3-year trends for individual physicians were plotted, and intraclass correlation coefficients were calculated. Generalized estimating equations were used to identify factors associated with detection of adenomas and polyps. RESULTS: At least 1 polyp and 1 adenoma were found in 36% and 22% of examinations, respectively. Adenoma detection rates by endoscopists ranged from 10%-39%. There was no significant improvement during the study period despite planned, systematic interventions. Factors associated with adenoma detection included age of the patient (odds ratio [OR], 1.02; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02-1.02), male sex (OR, 1.53; 95% CI, 1.34-1.74), and adequate preparation quality (OR, 2.26; 95% CI, 1.64-3.12). CONCLUSIONS: The detection of adenomas by individual physicians during a 3-year period varied and did not appear to change between individual endoscopists, despite planned, systematic interventions. This indicates that other targeted interventions might be required to improve adenoma detection rates among experienced, community gastroenterologists.
Improved outcome for peripheral blood stem cell transplantation for advanced primary myelodysplastic syndrome.

Abstract Stem cell transplantation for myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is characterized by high transplant-related mortality (TRM), especially in older patients and those with more advanced disease. Outcome after peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (PBSCT) may be superior to earlier results with bone marrow transplantation. Forty-three patients (aged 12-73 years; median, 49 years) received an HLA-identical sibling donor PBSCT. Twenty three patients aged ≤55 years without prohibitive comorbidity received myeloablative total body irradiation–based conditioning, followed by a T cell–depleted PBSCT and delayed add-back of donor lymphocytes. Older patients or those with comorbidities (n = 20) received reduced-intensity conditioning and an unmanipulated PBSCT. Thirty-seven (86%) had advanced disease (refractory anemia with excess blasts [n = 9], refractory anemia with excess blasts in transformation [n = 6], acute myelogenous leukemia [n = 13], or treatment-related MDS [n = 9]); 6 had low-risk MDS (refractory anemia or refractory anemia with ringed sideroblasts). The median follow-up was 18 months (range, 5-89 months). Actuarial probabilities of 3-year overall survival (OS), disease-free survival, relapse, and TRM were 64%, 59%, 26%, and 23%, respectively, for 34 primary MDS patients. The best results were in 19 patients younger than 50 years of age undergoing myeloablative PBSCT (actuarial probabilities of OS, disease-free survival, relapse, and TRM were 81%, 72%, 22%, and 7%, respectively). Although outcomes for all stages of primary MDS were improved, that for therapy-related MDS remained dismal, with 11% OS, because of a high relapse rate (89%).
Optimization of Cis-Acting Elements for Gene Expression from Nonviral Vectors In Vivo

While naked DNA gene transfer in vivo usually results in transient gene expression, in some cases long-term transgene expression can be achieved. Here we demonstrate that cis-acting DNA elements flanking the transgene expression cassette and components in the plasmid backbone can significantly influence expression levels from nonviral vectors. To demonstrate this, we administered our most robust human coagulation factor IX (hFIX) expression cassette placed in two different plasmid backbones, into the livers of mice, by hydrodynamic transfection. We found that placing the expression cassette within a minimal plasmid vector pHM5, a modified version of pUC19, resulted in 10 times higher serum hFIX expression levels (up to 20,000 ng/ml, 400% of normal hFIX serum levels), compared to a pBluescript backbone. To optimally increase expression levels from a nonviral vector, we added matrix attachment regions (MARs) as cis-acting DNA elements flanking the hFIX expression cassette. We detected five fold higher hFIX expression levels in vivo for up to 1-year posttransfection from a vector that contained the chicken MAR from the lysozyme locus. Together, the present work demonstrates that in addition to the transgene expression cassette, cis-acting DNA elements within and outside of the plasmid backbone need to be evaluated to achieve optimal expression levels in a nonviral gene therapy approach.
Line broadening and shift coefficients of acetylene at 1550 nm

Abstract Pressure broadening and shift coefficients have been measured for the ν 1 + ν 3 band of acetylene, C 2 H 2 , broadened by N 2 , H 2 , D 2 , air, and the noble gases at 295 K. Coefficients are reported for lines between 6470 and 6612 cm −1 (1512–1546 nm). The pressure broadening coefficients are in general agreement with those reported for other vibrational bands, indicating that they are insensitive to vibrational excitation. The pressure shift coefficients, by contrast, are found to differ substantially among vibrational bands.
Bioasssays of smooth muscle contracting agents in cotton mill dust and bract extracts: Arachidonic acid metabolites as possible mediators of the acute byssinotic reaction

Abstract Byssinosis is an occupational respiratory disease contracted by cotton mill workers who inhale cotton mill dust. The acute byssinotic reaction is characterized by a drop in the 1-sec forced expiratory volume (FEV1.0) on Monday following a weekend's absence from work. This physiological reaction is the result of the contraction of bronchial smooth muscle, which causes narrowing of small airways. An isolated tissue bath technique was used to assay smooth muscle contractions induced by cotton dust extract (CDE) and cotton bract extract (CBE). CBE-induced contractions of rat stomach smooth muscle were blocked (82%) by 100 ng/ml methysergide (blocks 5-hydroxytryptamine (5HT) 100%); CDE was not significantly blocked by methysergide (13%). CDE-induced contractions were blocked (100%) by 25 μg/ml indomethacin and 100 μg/ml salicylic acid (blocks prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) 100%). The portion of CBE contracting ability not blocked by methysergide was blocked totally by indomethacin. Blocking agents ineffective against CDE or CBE include atropine (acetylcholine blocker), pyrilamine maleate and diphenhydramine (histamine blockers), imidazole and 7-(1-imidazolyl)heptanoic acid (7IHA) (thromboxane blockers), and carboxypeptidase B2 (kinin blocker). The data suggest that cotton bract contains 5HT, which is responsible for a majority of the CBE-induced contraction and a minority of the CDE-induced contraction. The data also suggest that cotton dust and bract contain a substance which causes the release of PGF2α which in turn causes the contraction of smooth muscle. This substance is responsible for a majority of the CDE-induced and a minority of the CBE-induced contractions. Radioimmunoassay (RIA) confirmed PGF2α release from rat fundal smooth muscle when exposed to CDE and CBE. Increased synthesis and release of arachidonic acid metabolites might be a major mechanism in the bronchoconstriction observed in the acute byssinotic reaction.
Novel glycosylation-defective baby hamster kidney cells

The plant lectin wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) has previously been used to select more than ten different glycosylation-defective phenotypes in a variety of mammalian somatic cells. Three WGA-resistant phenotypes have now been obtained spontaneously from baby hamster kidney (BHK) cells. These mutant BHK cells exhibit a pattern of cross resistance and sensitivity to multiple plant lectins, suggesting that the cell surface carbohydrates of these cells are altered. Two WGA-resistant BHK phenotypes appear similar to WGA-resistant CHO cells that lack terminal sialic acid and galactose residues on their cell surface carbohydrates. The third WGA-resistant BHK cell phenotype has not previously been seen in WGA-resistant mammalian cells.
EFFECT OF EXERCISE ON CARDIAC PERFORMANCE IN HUMAN SUBJECTS WITH MINIMAL HEART DISEASE.

Abstract 1. 1. A study of myocardial performance at rest and during exercise was performed in 16 subjects: 7 with no demonstrable heart disease and 9 with mild heart disease. The interrelation of various indices of contractility and of cardiac energy need were analyzed. 2. 2. At a level of effort sufficient to more than double total body oxygen consumption, increases in pressure time and in minute work were greater than the increases in cardiac energy consumption, indicating an increased mechanical efficiency of the left ventricle on effort. 3. 3. The increase in mean ejection rate varied inversely with the increase in pressure time per beat in most subjects.
On the rebustness of perfect equilibrium in fixed cost sequential bargaining under an isomorphic transformation

Abstract Subgame perfect equilibrium realizations in sequential bargaining with fixed cost structures under positive and negative frames are studied. No effects for frame or experience are found. The strong prevalance of PE outcomes is discussed in the context of the fairness constraint found in other studies.
Altruism, volunteers, and volunteerism

Which public and private policies we deem appropriate to foster volunteering in the public interest is determined by our view of the motives of volunteers and the basic nature of volunteering. This paper examines research results from several disciplines and fields of volunteering to conclude that it is a mistake to view volunteers as principally altruistic. Rather, it argues, volunteering is essentially an instrumental (though not necessarily selfish) activity, done to achieve ends which the volunteer finds rewarding. The policy implications of this view are explored.
Teaching Green and Sustainable Chemistry: A Revised One-Semester Course Based on Inspirations and Challenges

An elective course, Toward the Greening of Our Minds: Green and Sustainable Chemistry, has been offered at Washington College since 2005. This new course without laboratory is designed for chemistry and biology majors and minors who have previously taken two semesters of general chemistry and organic chemistry. Due to the popularity of the course, the enrollment nearly doubled since 2005. Specific changes needed to be implemented to respond to students' feedback and needs but also to account for the expansion of the field of green chemistry. The original goals associated with this course are still incorporated yet are now addressed differently to provide students with up-to-date, quantitative, and skillful knowledge of green chemistry applications and metrics. The ultimate goal is for students to use their critical thinking skills to produce an innovation proposal and to become responsible citizens of the 21st century.
Stratification of the top of the core due to chemical interactions with the mantle

[1] Chemical interactions between the core and the mantle have been proposed as a mechanism to transfer O and Si to the core. Adding light elements to the top of the core creates a stratified layer, which grows by chemical diffusion into the underlying convecting region. We develop a physical model to describe the evolution of the layer and estimate physical properties to aid in its detection. The interface between the stratified layer and the convecting interior is defined by the onset of double diffusive instabilities. Oscillatory instabilities arise from the interplay of a stable compositional stratification and an unstable thermal stratification due to a superadiabatic heat flow at the core-mantle boundary. Double diffusive convection in the region of neutral stratification establishes the base of the layer and sets the rate of entrainment of excess light element into the interior of the core. Growth of the layer by diffusion is interrupted by nucleation of the inner core, which segregates light elements into the convecting part of the core. For calculations using O as the sole light element, we find that the base of the stratified layer retreats toward the core-mantle boundary as the radius of the inner core increases. Representative (but uncertain) model parameters yield a present-day layer thickness of 60 to 70 km. We also calculate the anomaly in P wave velocity relative to the value for a well-mixed core. The velocity anomaly decreases almost linearly across the layer with a peak value of 2% at the core-mantle boundary. This anomaly should be large enough to detect in seismic observations, although the sign of the anomaly is opposite to estimates obtained in previous seismic studies. We suggest possible explanations for this discrepancy and speculate about the implications for the structure of the Earth's interior.
Glucocorticoids worsen excitotoxin-induced expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in hippocampal cultures

Glucocorticoids (GCs), the adrenal steroid hormones released during stress, have well-known anti-inflammatory actions. Despite that, there is increasing evidence that GCs are not uniformly anti-inflammatory in the injured nervous system and, in fact, can be pro-inflammatory. The present report continues this theme. Primary hippocampal cultures were treated with GC concentrations approximating basal, acute (1 h) stress or chronic (24 h) stress conditions and were then exposed to the excitotoxin kainic acid (KA). KA induced expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1 beta and TNF-alpha, and chronic high dose GC exposure excacerbated this induction. In a second study, cultures were exposed to the physiological range of GC concentrations for 24 h prior to KA treatment. Low- to mid-range GC concentrations were anti-inflammatory, decreasing expression of IL-1 beta and TNF-alpha, while the highest GC doses either failed to be anti-inflammatory or even potentiated expression further. These findings add to the growing picture of these classically anti-inflammatory hormones potentially having pro-inflammatory effects in the injured CNS.
Exclusion of positional candidate gene coding region mutations in the common posterior polymorphous corneal dystrophy 1 candidate gene interval.

Purpose Posterior polymorphous corneal dystrophy (PPCD) is an autosomal-dominant disorder of the corneal endothelium associated with visually significant corneal edema and glaucoma. Statistical genetic analysis of 4 families with PPCD has demonstrated linkage to a 2.4 cM common support interval on chromosome 20 bordered by the markers D20S182 and D20S139. We sought to identify the genetic basis of PPCD linked to chromosome 20 (PPCD1) by screening the 26 positional candidate genes between these markers in a family previously mapped to the PPCD1 region. Methods The coding regions of the 26 positional candidate genes mapped to the common PPCD1 support interval were amplified and sequenced in affected and unaffected individuals from a family previously linked to the PPCD1 locus. Nine other genes positioned just outside of the common PPCD1 support interval but within the autosomal-dominant congenital hereditary endothelial dystrophy interval were also screened. Results Four DNA sequence variants in 3 of the positional candidate genes demonstrated complete segregation with the affected phenotype: p.Thr109Thr (rs6111803) in OVOL2, p.Arg56Gln (novel variant-RPSnovel) in RPS19P1, and p.Thr85Thr (rs1053834) and p.Pro99Ser (rs1053839) in C20orf79. Each of these 4 sequence variants demonstrated significant linkage with the affected phenotype in this family (P = 2.5 x 10 for RPSnovel, rs1053834 and rs1053839; P = 8.6 x 10 for rs6111803). However, we also identified each of these 4 sequence variants in > or = affected control individuals. The haplotype on which the disease-causing mutation is segregating was found to have a population frequency of 4.2% in the CEPH HapMap trios. Although a number of other previously described and novel single nucleotide polymorphisms were identified in the 35 positional candidate genes located within the PPCD1 and congenital hereditary endothelial dystrophy intervals, none segregated with the affected phenotype. Conclusions We report the absence of a presumed pathogenic coding region mutation in the common PPCD1 support interval. Although minor alleles of 4 single nucleotide polymorphisms were identified that segregated with the affected phenotype, the relatively high frequency of each minor allele in the general population indicates that none is a candidate for the causal variant for PPCD. Instead, the causal variant is most likely a coding region deletion or a variant in a noncoding region of the PPCD1 common support interval.
Lung mechanics and physiologic shunt during spontaneous breathing in normal subjects.

The mechanics of breathing, lung compliance, and aDO2 during air and oxygen breathing were studied in 16 normal subjects. In 5 subjects, the effect of intravenously administered morphine sulfate on the same parameters was also investigated. Compliance and aDO2 (shunt) varied little in the individual subjects during spontaneous breathing. Spontaneous sighing was not followed by changes in lung mechanics or compliance; similarly, almost complete absence of sighing for periods from 60–90 minutes following administration of morphine sulfate was not associated with changes in lung mechanics or shunt. The transient increase in compliance that followed maximal inspiration is thought to be the resolt of changes in surface tension properties of the lungs and not to decreases in the number of perfused but unventilated (atelectatic) alveoli. We propose that lung mechanics and ventilation-perfusion relations during spontaneous breathing are regulated on a breath to breath basis and that sighing does not play a significant part in this regulation.
CYP450 4A inhibition attenuates O2 induced arteriolar constriction in chronic but not acute Goldblatt hypertension

Abstract We explored the role of 20-hydroxy-5Z, 8Z, 11Z, 14Z-eicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE) in oxygen-induced vasoconstriction in a normal renin form of hypertension [the 1 kidney-1 clip Goldblatt hypertensive rat (1K1C)] and a high renin form of hypertension [the 2 kidney-1 clip Goldblatt hypertensive rat (2K1C)]. A silver clip was placed around the left renal artery of adult Sprague–Dawley males. The right kidney was removed in the 1K1C group and left intact in the 2K1C group. Arteriolar responses to elevation of O 2 concentration in the superfusion solution from 0% O 2 to 21% O 2 were determined in the in situ cremaster muscle before and after inhibition of cytochrome P450 4A ω-hydroxylase (CYP450 4A) with N-methyl-sulfonyl-12, 12-dibromododec-11-enamide (DDMS). Arteriolar constriction to elevated PO 2 was enhanced in the chronic 1K1C but not the acute 1K1C or 2K1C. DDMS eliminated O 2 -induced arteriolar constriction in the 9-week 1K1C, but had no effect in the 2-week 1K1C, and only partially inhibited O 2 -induced constriction of arterioles in the 4-week 2K1C rat. These findings indicate that although the CYP4A/20-HETE system contributes to arteriolar constriction in response to elevated PO 2 in the established stage of 1K1C renovascular hypertension, physiological alterations in other mechanisms are the primary determinants of O 2 -induced constriction of arterioles in the early and developing stages of 1K1C and 2K1C hypertension.
Hidden order in the cuprates

We propose that the enigmatic pseudogap phase of cuprate superconductors is characterized by a hidden broken symmetry of ${d}_{{x}^{2}\ensuremath{-}{y}^{2}}$-type. The transition to this state is rounded by disorder, but in the limit that the disorder is made sufficiently small, the pseudogap crossover should reveal itself to be such a transition. The ordered state breaks time-reversal, translational, and rotational symmetries, but it is invariant under the combination of any two. We discuss these ideas in the context of ten specific experimental properties of the cuprates, and make several predictions, including the existence of an as-yet undetected metal-metal transition under the superconducting dome.
Brain Biology and Gendered Discourse

Despite the greater presence of women in the workforce, their organisational experiences remain different from many men's. Most explanations for this difference are based on cultural socialisation or power and dominance. This paper offers the role of brain biology as a missing mediating link explaining the persistence of gendered communication in organisational discourse. The way men and women talk in interactions is mediated by differences in their brain structure, function, and chemistry. This produces gendered communication styles influenced by biology. A biopsychosocial model explains the simultaneous effects that biology, psychology, and socialisation have on each other for understanding gendered discourse style persistence. Following a characterisation of talk, a primer on brain biology is provided in three areas: (1) structure including hemisphere asymmetry, corpus callosum size, and defined brain areas; (2) function including organisation for language and information processing, attention, and emotion; and (3) chemistry, linking each area of brain biology to examples of gendered discourse differences characterising normatively masculine and feminine discourse styles, and a wide-verbal-repertoire style (WVR), used by some men and women. We conclude with implications of brain science for “doing leadership” through discourse in the workplace, in any role, at any organisational level, and the value of such differences.
Descriptive Experience Sampling Demonstrates the Connection of Thinking to Externally Observable Behavior

Cognitive models of psychotherapy assume a connection between thinking and behavior but have examined that connection with the use of only retrospective reports of thinking. However, such retrospective reports may not be trustworthy. Descriptive experience sampling (DES), a nonretrospective procedure for examining inner experience (thinking, feelings, etc.), has demonstrated links between thinking and behavior in some psychiatric populations but not yet in general. Here, DES was used to compare 7 undiagnosed individuals who share an externally observable characteristic (high rate of speech) to 7 normal-speech-rate individuals. High-speech-rate individuals had fewer instances of simple inner speech, more instances of complex inner experiences, fewer feeling experiences, and more “just doing” experiences, thus demonstrating a connection between inner experience and external behavior, and that DES is useful for exploring inner experience.
Cyclic AMP and protein kinase A stimulate Cdc42: role of A(2) adenosine receptors in human mast cells.

The functional activity of Cdc42 is known to be regulated by proteins that control its GDP/GTP-bound state. However, there is still limited information on how Cdc42 is controlled by G-protein-coupled receptors. Adenosine receptors belong to the G-protein-coupled receptor family of cell surface receptors. Human HMC-1 mast cells express the high-affinity A2A and the low-affinity A2B subtypes of adenosine receptors known to increase intracellular cAMP levels. We found that both subtypes of A2 adenosine receptors activate Cdc42 in HMC-1 cells. Furthermore, stimulation of adenylate cyclase with forskolin, or loading of HMC-1 with the cell-permeable cAMP analog 8-Br-cAMP, activated Cdc42. Stimulation of Cdc42 by cAMP was also observed in CHO-K1 and COS-7 cells. Protein kinase A (PKA)-mediated phosphorylation is likely involved in cAMP-dependent Cdc42 activation, because transient expression of the PKA catalytic subunit in COS-7 cells activated Cdc42. Inhibition of protein phosphatases 1 and 2A with calyculin A potentiated the effects of 5′-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine and 8-Br-cAMP, whereas the selective PKA inhibitor H-89 reversed the activation of Cdc42. We demonstrated that Cdc42 is a poor substrate for PKA phosphorylation in vitro and in intact cells. Our data suggest that PKA does not phosphorylate Cdc42 directly. Instead, the proteins that modulate the GDP/GTP-bound state of Cdc42 may be the primary targets of PKA phosphorylation.
A review of actuation and power electronics options for flapping-wing robotic insects

Flapping-wing robotic insects require actuators with high power densities at centimeter to micrometer scales. Due to the low weight budget, the selection and design of the actuation mechanism needs to be considered in parallel with the design of the power electronics required to drive it. This paper explores the design space of flapping-wing microrobots weighing lg and under by determining mechanical requirements for the actuation mechanism, analyzing potential actuation technologies, and discussing the design and realization of the required power electronics. Promising combinations of actuators and power circuits are identified and used to estimate microrobot performance.
Weakest students benefit most from a customized educational experience for Generation Y students

Most current dental students were born in the 1980s and 1990s and are defined as Generation Y (Gen Y). The authors developed a customized educational experience that brought together some characteristics of Gen Y and the objective of this educational experience was to develop the critical thinking skills of Gen Y students. The objective of the current study is to evaluate outcomes from pre-session and post-session tests. Additionally, we wanted to integrate aspects of team-based learning, self-directed learning and peer-to-peer teaching as a means of reducing the need for intense faculty supervision but maintain positive educational outcomes. Single bitewing x-ray was displayed and informal class discussion was facilitated by a Senior Tutor. A list of questions and concepts that needed to be understood more clearly was made. Student groups self allocated research tasks to members. After conducting research, students presented to class and faculty facilitated discussions aiming to foster critical thinking and identify what information needed to be more thoroughly understood. Pre-session and post-session tests were conducted and compared. Students who scored below 85% in their pre-session test improved their score in the post-session test by a mean of 9.5 points (p = 0.02). Those who scored above 95% in their pre-session test scored less in the post-session test (mean reduction of 6.31 points, p = 0.001). Findings from this study demonstrate that the weakest students in the class (those who scored below 85% correct in the pre-session test) benefitted most from this unique educational experience.
What Is Your Radiologist Assistant Student Worth to You

Purpose: To associate a monetary value with the productivity of a radiologist assistant (RA) student during the educational process, as a predictor of the potential impact on radiology practices acting as preceptors to RA students. Methods: Eight RA students’ productivity was analyzed using preexisting data composed of a list of examinations completed as part of the educational process. The Institutional Review Board at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences classified this study as exempt. The data were correlated with current Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services reimbursement rates. Analyses included descriptive statistical tests for the sum of the amount of potential reimbursement calculated for each student and the mean and median for the study sample. The results conservatively predict the productivity of an RA student. Results: The average number of procedures performed by the RA students was 581 during the minimum of 1,500 clinical internship hours. The average potential professional fee reimbursement for the procedures performed by the RA students during the educational process was $58,957. Conclusions: Unless radiology practices increase their capacity to handle larger volumes of examinations, the risk of losing business to others is likely to persist. By performing varying radiologic procedures, RAs can help address workforce shortages in radiology. Radiologist assistants enable radiologists to increase practice productivity by lessening the burden placed on radiologists, which permits radiologists to spend more time on image interpretations. The potential reimbursement produced by RA students is worth the time and effort invested by radiologists during the educational process.
Uncertainty-management-network-based dynamic sensor model

The raw data obtained by physical sensors are initially modeled using fuzzy numbers which are then processed by the subsequent uncertainty management network (UMN) which is a new paradigm in propagating uncertainties through a sensor system model. The UMN partitions the processing blocks of the sensor system into a tree-like network structure of basic processing nodes which perform elementary arithmetic, logical, aggregation, or branching operations interconnected using multiple information propagation channels. The UMN allows the dynamic modelling of sensor systems by providing a confidence measure for the output of the sensor system which incorporates the changing conditions of the environment as well as the changes occurring within the sensor system itself. An example of an UMN-based vision system is illustrated to clarify the idea and the concepts. >
CCR9 interactions support ovarian cancer cell survival and resistance to cisplatin-induced apoptosis in a PI3K-dependent and FAK-independent fashion.

Cisplatin is more often used to treat ovarian cancer (OvCa), which provides modest survival advantage primarily due to chemo-resistance and up regulated anti-apoptotic machineries in OvCa cells. Therefore, targeting the mechanisms responsible for cisplatin resistance in OvCa cell may improve therapeutic outcomes. We have shown that ovarian cancer cells express CC chemokine receptor-9 (CCR9). Others have also shown that CCL25, the only natural ligand for CCR9, up regulates anti-apoptotic proteins in immature T lymphocytes. Hence, it is plausible that CCR9-mediated cell signals might be involved in OvCa cell survival and inhibition of cisplatin-induced apoptosis. In this study, we investigated the potential role and molecular mechanisms of CCR9-mediated inhibition of cisplatin-induced apoptosis in OvCa cells. Cell proliferation, vibrant apoptosis, and TUNEL assays were performed with or without cisplatin treatment in presence or absence of CCL25 to determine the role of the CCR9-CCL25 axis in cisplatin resistance. In situ Fast Activated cell-based ELISA (FACE) assays were performed to determine anti-apoptotic signaling molecules responsible for CCL25-CCR9 mediated survival. Our results show interactions between CCR9 and CCL25 increased anti-apoptotic signaling cascades in OvCa cells, which rescued cells from cisplatin-induced cell death. Specifically, CCL25-CCR9 interactions mediated Akt, activation as well as GSK-3β and FKHR phosphorylation in a PI3K-dependent and FAK-independent fashion. Our results suggest the CCR9-CCL25 axis plays an important role in reducing cisplatin-induced apoptosis of OvCa cells.
A New Read Channel Model for Patterned Media Storage

It is conceivable that early generations of patterned media will utilize read heads whose dimensions are several times larger than an "island" of magnetization. For such a scenario, we propose a "multiple islands per read head" model where the output from the read head is a function of the magnetization from several independently written tracks of islands. In particular, we focus on a "3 islands per read head" model where the output from the read head is a function of the magnetization from three independently written tracks of islands. The readback signal is determined from a finite track-width magnetoresistive (MR) head model using reciprocity calculations, and two noise sources - island position jitter and AWGN electronics noise - are considered. By sampling the noisy signal at intervals corresponding to the down-track island separation, we obtain a discrete-time readback channel model whose performance is obtained under maximum-likelihood sequence detection.
Perimesencephalic subarachnoid hemorrhage: incidence, risk factors, and outcome.

Background: Nonaneurysmal perimesencephalic subarachnoid hemorrhage (PMSAH) appears to have an origin and natural history distinct from aneurysm rupture. Referral-based studies suggest that 15% of patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) have no discernable cause of bleeding, but the incidence of PMSAH is unknown. We describe the first population-based study of PMSAH and place it in the context of all nontraumatic SAH, with presentation of incidence rates, patient demographics, and clinical outcomes. Methods: All patients age 18 years or older hospitalized with first-ever, nontraumatic SAH in the greater Cincinnati/northern Kentucky area were identified from May 1998 to July 2001 and August 2002 to April 2004. PMSAH was defined as hemorrhage restricted to the cisterns surrounding the brainstem and suprasellar cistern and a negative cerebral angiogram. Incidence rates were age, race, and sex adjusted to the 2000 US population. Results: There were 431 SAHs identified. Cases in Asian Americans (two) were excluded, leaving 429 SAHs for analysis. Of these patients, 77 did not have angiograms. Among remaining patients, 285 had aneurysm rupture, 43 had nonaneurysmal hemorrhage not of the PMSAH pattern, and 24 had PMSAH. The overall annual incidence rates for SAH and PMSAH were 8.7 (95% confidence interval 7.9-9.5) and 0.5 (95% confidence interval 0.3-0.7) per 100,000 persons age 18 years or older. Patients with PMSAH were younger ( P = .018) and less likely to be female ( P = .020) or hypertensive ( P = .005) than other patients with SAH. There was one death among patients with PMSAH during 14 months mean follow-up. Conclusions: PMSAH represents approximately 5% of all SAH. Its risk factors and outcome differ from other forms of SAH.
Validated templates for specification of complex LTL formulas

Formal verification approaches that check software correctness against formal specifications have been shown to improve program dependability. Tools such as Specification Pattern System (SPS) and Property Specification (Prospec) support the generation of formal specifications. SPS has defined a set of patterns (common recurring properties) and scopes (system states over which a pattern must hold) that allows a user to generate formal specifications by using direct substitution of propositions into parameters of selected patterns and scopes. Prospec extended SPS to support the definition of patterns and scopes that include the ability to specify parameters with multiple propositions (referred to as composite propositions or CPs), allowing the specification of sequential and concurrent behavior. Prospec generates formal specifications in Future Interval Logic (FIL) using direct substitution of CPs into pattern and scope parameters. While substitution works trivially for FIL, it does not work for Linear Temporal Logic (LTL), a highly expressive language that supports specification of software properties such as safety and liveness. LTL is important because of its use in the model checker Spin, the ACM 2001 system Software Award winning tool, and NuSMV. This paper introduces abstract LTL templates to support automated generation of LTL formulas for complex properties in Prospec. In addition, it presents formal proofs and testing to demonstrate that the templates indeed generate the intended LTL formulas.
Tumors Vent Their Spleen

The immune system is geared to maintain the status quo: It attacks dangerous invaders but leaves healthy tissue alone. Tumors are like wolves in sheep’s clothing—they con the immune response into treating them like healthy tissue through a process called tolerance induction. Much remains to be understood about how or where tumors induce immune tolerance. Now, Ugel et al. report that tolerance may be induced remotely in the spleen rather than in the lymph nodes nearest the tumor. The spleen is an organ with many functions, including production and removal of blood cells and stimulation of immune responses (in the red and white pulp, respectively). The authors show that, in tumor-bearing mice, systemic tolerization of CD8+ killer T cells happens—surprisingly—not in the tumor-draining lymph node but in the red pulp of the spleen. These cells responsible for tolerance induction are mostly monocytes and their immature precursors. Indeed, transferring tumor antigen–specific CD8+ T cells into mice that had their spleens removed led to a significant increase in survival compared with mice subjected to sham surgery. However, removing the spleen is not the ideal therapy in the clinic. Thus, the authors targeted splenic antigen-presenting cells with chemotherapy and found that transferred tumor-specific killer T cells led to tumor regression. A similar phenotype was observed in MCP-1– and CCR2-deficient mice, suggesting that this cytokine axis regulates presence of antigen-presenting inflammatory monocytes in the spleen. To explore the clinical relevance of the mouse data, the authors studied patients with renal and colorectal cancer who received therapeutic vaccines. In these patients, blood MCP-1 levels correlated positively with the expansion of circulating immature myeloid cells. High MCP-1 serum levels predicted an impaired response to immunotherapy and a worse prognosis. These findings indicate that the tumor hijacks the spleen to instruct the body's immune defense to “stand down” and highlight the potential of the chemokine receptor CCR2 as a therapeutic target. S. Ugel et al. , Immune tolerance to tumor antigens occurs in a specialized environment of the spleen. Cell Rep . 2 , 628–639 (2012). [[Full Text]][1] [1]: http://www.cell.com/cell-reports/retrieve/pii/S2211124712002318
Telomerase activity and related properties of normal canine lymph node and canine lymphoma

Telomerase activity (TA) and the expression of p16(INK4), telomerase reverse-transcriptase catalytic subunit (TERT) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) were analysed in lymph nodes from clinically normal dogs and from dogs with lymphoma. Telomere lengths were measured in 12 histologically normal lymph nodes. These data were related to the overall survival time of the lymphoma patients given chemotherapy, in an effort to identify prognostic significance of the measured variables. There was no significant difference between TA of normal lymph nodes (n = 16) and lymphoma lymph nodes (n = 6). PCNA expression was significantly higher in lymphoma (n = 30) than in normal lymph nodes (n = 10), but TERT expression was not. Expression of p16(INK4) was not significantly different between normal and lymphoma lymph nodes. TA and p16(INK4) expression were inversely correlated within the normal lymph nodes studied. Telomere lengths in normal lymph nodes were consistent with previous studies. No variables examined had any correlation with survival of the lymphoma patients given chemotherapy. The role of p16(INK4) in the regulation of TA warrants further investigation.
Empirical Design Research: Student Definitions, Perceptions, and Values

Third and fourth year undergraduate interior design students in Colleges of Architecture or Human Sciences at three different research universities were surveyed to compare their: (1) perceived value of research in interior design practice, (2) perceptions of who should conduct research, (3) attitudes toward research in interior design education, and (4) definitions of research. A survey instrument was developed that consisted of one open-ended question and 29 questions using a Likert scale. Questions were adapted from the Chenoweth and Chidister (1983) scale that measured landscape architecture attitudes toward research, and from the Dickson and White (1993) scale administered to interior design practicing professionals. A total of 89 undergraduate students were surveyed from the three universities. The majority of the students were Caucasian (n = 79) and female (n = 84). The results indicated that, overall, students valued research for the profession regardless of their college or university affiliation. However, their definitions of research were pragmatic in nature, and they often regarded research as the gathering of information rather than the generation of new knowledge. The students were also unclear about who should be conducting interior design research. College affiliation revealed that students who were in an architecturally-based program put a higher value on research at the undergraduate level than those students housed in a College of Human Sciences; similarly, College of Architecture students had a better understanding that research advanced a profession.
Effects of high field generation of charge trapping in the oxide and interface traps on MOS capacitors and MOSFETs

Oxide charge trapping and interface state generation phenomena under the various high-field stress conditions have been investigated using capacitors fabricated on both p-and n-type substrates, and p- and n-channel MOSFETs. It was found that prediction based on MOSFET devices yielded shorter lifetimes than predictions based on capacitors. >
Temperature dependence of ferromagnetism at Ni(111) surfaces determined with electron capture spectroscopy (ECS)

The electron spin polarization ESP is measured at atomically clean surfaces of Gd using electron capture spectroscopy ECS. The ESP is found to depend on the applied magnetizing field and on temperature T. The T-dependence of the ESP is found to be drastically different from bulk behaviour. The ESP amounts up to -22% at T= 233 K (bulk Curie temperature TBC= 292 K) using a magnetizing field of 47.76 kA/m. Nonzero ESP values for T ≥ TBC demonstrate the existence of a surface Curie temperature TSC ≥ TBC.
Class I Major Histocompatibility Complex Presentation of Antigens That Escape from the Parasitophorous Vacuole of Toxoplasma gondii

The intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii, the causative agent of toxoplasmosis, induces a protective CD8 T-cell response in its host; however, the mechanisms by which T. gondii proteins are presented by the class I major histocompatibility complex remain largely unexplored. T. gondii resides within a specialized compartment, the parasitophorous vacuole, that sequesters the parasite and its secreted proteins from the host cell cytoplasm, suggesting that an alternative cross-priming pathway might be necessary for class I presentation of T. gondii antigens. Here we used a strain of T. gondii expressing yellow fluorescent protein and a secreted version of the model antigen ovalbumin to investigate this question. We found that presentation of ovalbumin secreted by the parasite requires the peptide transporter TAP (transporter associated with antigen processing) and occurs primarily in actively infected cells rather than bystander cells. We also found that dendritic cells are a major target of T. gondii infection in vivo and account for much of the antigen-presenting activity in the spleen. Finally, we obtained evidence that Cre protein secreted by T. gondii can mediate recombination in the nucleus of the host cell. Together, these results indicate that Toxoplasma proteins can escape from the parasitophorous vacuole into the host cytoplasm and be presented by the endogenous class I pathway, leading to direct recognition of infected cells by CD8 T cells.
Tolterodine (TOL) prolonged release (PR) in children aged 11–15 years

Purpose To evaluate the pharmacokinetics (PK), safety and clinical effect of TOL PR in children aged 11–15 years with overactive bladder. Methods 10 children (8F; 13.2±0.9y) received 2 mg and 21 children (11F; 12.7±1.3y) received 4 mg TOL PR once daily × 6-10 days. A voiding diary and residual urine were collected prior to and during treatment. Serial blood samples (0–25h) on the last day of treatment were assayed for TOL and active metabolite (5HM) levels, and noncompartmental PK analysis was performed. Results The mean±SD TOL AUC0–24, Cmax, Tmax and T1/2 in CYP2D6 extensive metabolizers for 2-mg group (n=7) were 39±37 μg·h/L, 3.2±2.9 μg/L, 3.6±1.3 h and 14±4 h, and for 4-mg group (n=20) were 43±34 μg·h/L, 3.4±2.6 μg/L, 3.9±1.6 h and 17±13 h. Active moiety (unbound TOL + unbound 5HM) AUC0-24 was 16±5.6 nM·h (2-mg) and 30±11 nM·h (4-mg). Number of micturitions and incontinence episodes decreased from baseline in both dose groups. Residual urine volume was unchanged. The only drug-related adverse events were mild headache and nausea in one child (4-mg group). Conclusion Mean drug exposure after a 4–mg once-daily dose of TOL PR is similar to that observed in adults (AUC0-24: TOL=41 μg·h/L, active moiety=26 nM·h). The PK profile of TOL PR is consistent with “flip-flop” kinetics, based on the prolonged apparent T1/2 relative to TOL Immediate release tablet (~2 h). TOL PR improved voiding symptoms in children with overactive bladder without significant adverse effects. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2004) 75, P47–P47; doi: 10.1016/j.clpt.2003.11.175
The Application of Ichnology to Palaeoenvironmental and Stratigraphic Analysis

D. McIlroy, ed., 2004, The Geological Society of London Special Publication 228, 490 p. (Hardcover, US $174.24) ISBN: 1-86239-154-8. Ichnology is one of the most important tools for interpreting depositional environments preserved in the Phanerozoic sedimentary record. Such trace fossils as tracks, trails, burrows, nests, rooting patterns, and borings are the products of organism-substratum interactions. Trace fossils rarely are reworked, and therefore preserve in-situ evidence of organisms that once lived above, at, or below the substratum in aquatic or terrestrial settings. Ichnology, over the last 40 years, has been a rapidly developing, interdisciplinary science that spans paleontology and sedimentology with applications to paleobiology as well as paleoenvironmental and stratigraphic analyses. The edited volume, The Application of Ichnology to Palaeoenvironmental and Stratigraphic Analysis, is a product of the 2003 Lyell Meeting on this theme. It attempts to provide a recent summary of most themes in ichnology as currently applied, as well as to present some of the developments that have been made in this interdisciplinary science. The purpose of the book is to provide a comprehensive treatment and an analytical view of the ichnology of all depositional environments, as well as its use in biostratigraphic and sequence stratigraphic analyses and the refinement of paleoenvironmental interpretations. This book is also meant for use as an undergraduate textbook and a reference text for ichnologists, sedimentologists, and petroleum geologists. The book consists of 20 chapters, including an introduction (Chapter 1) and a review of concepts and methods, applications, and frontiers (Chapter 2) by McIlroy. These are followed by a collection of chapters (Chapters 3–20) in no particular order that are a combination of review articles and novel research that discuss methodologies and protocols to improve our understanding of paleoenvironments. Topics covered range from deepwater to shallow-marine trace fossils in ancient environments, stratigraphic distribution of …