#pf&r maru

[soumarhea]

Propwash Junction Corn Festival,

The fact that, Maru and the jumpers probably built those ramps themselves.

The fact that, Blade and Windlifter were smiling at each other at the end there.

The fact that, Cabbie gets to participate beyond just dropping the jumpers.

The fact that, Blade made one (1) water drop and then immediately kicks himself into a hover to helicopter parent his entire team.

The Air Attack team isn't a found family; they're established family. In this essay, I will talk about how Patch got the short end of the stick and had to stay back home and look after the base while everyone else got to have fun at Propwash Junction😭😭😭

Also, literally every fire department from Piston Peak (Air Attack + Pulaski) left the Park for their much needed vacation while still in the middle of fire season. The entire Park burned down and they really went "well, nothing else to catch fire here" and promptly peaces out💀💀

Blade and Pulaski be like, "Finally getting that vacation Cad denied huh?" "Yeah."

Also, Mayday, there's this thing called "show don't tell", so how come we never see you two "old friend" interacts hm??

[childhoodgrave]

who do you go for in stardew valley? (im gonna guess... harvey or krobus? it feels wrong only guessing guy characters but none of the girls really seem up ur alley) also what skill do u end up maxing out first, if you've played multiple files? what kind of farmers do u end up making. r they self inserts or ocs. hi

HI GENO i was like how do you know ive been playing so much stardew valley recently and then i remembeted we are steam friends and ive also been. posting about it a lot LAWL ok so i do actually really enjoy harvey and krobus especially but ive never actually romanced any of thw guy characters they are completely uninteresting to me in that respect even though unfortunately i think they get to be more interesting than most of the women SADLY. a lot of my more recent playthroughs i have gone for krobus or havent pursued any romance options bc i jist like the grind more… i dont think ive ever even gotten to the point in marriage where u like have children at all BUT when i was very very into it in early high school i usually went for maru or abigail. and funnily enough on my current playthru im trying to go 100% on i actually married haley LOL idk why but i now find her very cute.. i feel like she didnt have much of an interesting like arc? infact i kind of enjoyed when she was much meaner to the player character and wish she stayed that way even after she gets closer to you but OH WELL i am just very charmed by her currently.

ummm ok im trying to remember for skills i think i usually end up maxing out mining first… i love the mines but ive never even reached level 100 in the skull caverns yet.. IM TRYING TO THOUGH. fishing is very fun but usually for the first year or 2 in a playthru its not what i focus on. AND my farmers are literally always self inserts lol i dont play many games w like character customization stuff so when i do i usually end up making a self insert.. though if i ever emd up playing bg3 i plan on coming up w just like an oc for it. here what i look like on my singleplayer file AND then how i look in the coop file ive been playing a lot w my friends which i actually prefer more to how i look in single player but ive been too lazy to change it..

I LIKED THIS QUESTION ALOT and now i want to know what your answers to all pf this are im curious..

[frankavargas]

What is GABA? (Gamma-Aminobutyric acid): Benefits, Side Effects, and Usage

GABA, or gamma-amino butyric acid, is an amino acid naturally produced in the brain. It acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter or a hormone that is widely distributed in the central nervous system (CNS). Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers released in the body that modulate our mood.

GABA’s main function is to facilitate communication between brain cells. It plays an essential role in cognitive and physiological functions, most importantly it helps us calm down. [1] Increased GABA levels is known to help with sleep, digestion, relaxation and inflammation.

In this article, we will outline the function of GABA, its benefits and the ways to boost its activity! Fortunately, there are ways in which you can increase GABA levels naturally. Some of these include taking pure GABA extract, supplementing with herbs which impact GABA synthesis and trying out lifestyle practices like yoga and meditation. [2]

What is GABA and How Does it Work? 

GABA is widely distributed in the neurons of the cortex and is produced from the precursor glutamate via an enzyme called glutamate decarboxylase. The glutamate neurotransmitter has the opposite role of GABA. Its main function is to excite whereas GABA’s function is to calm down. When glutamate levels are too high, they automatically get converted to GABA to promote calm and balance in the body.

When there isn’t enough GABA serum in the brain, GABA sends chemical signals to the brain to initiate and hinder muscle contractions. This promotes feelings of calm and relaxation, reduces tension and enables smooth and fluid muscle movement. Studies have found low GABA activity to be linked to anxiety, depression, focus, and attention deficits. [3]

In the past, supplementing with GABA was considered ineffective due to its inability to cross the blood-brain barrier, but as discussed below, new research is proving the contrary. [4]

GABA – Uses and Benefits 

Scientists have just recently recognized the importance of this neurotransmitter. In fact, GABA is popularized for its ability to relieve symptoms of anxiety, inflammation, ADHD, insomnia, and premenstrual symptoms. That is why it is critical to maintaining balanced levels of GABA and glutamate in the brain. Here are a few of our top benefits and uses for GABA.

Relieves Stress

Studies have shown that GABA may be effective at reducing stress. GABA is a known inhibitory neurotransmitter, meaning it reduces nerve excitability and helps with stress.

Researchers believe there is a strong correlation between low GABA levels and mood disorders. One study from the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons’ Department of Psychiatry found that patients with a family history of anxiety disorders or those afflicted by these conditions had reduced brain concentrations of GABA. Another study found panic attacks occurred more in individuals with obstructed GABA response. [5] [6]

In effect, many anti-depressants, sleep medications and anticonvulsants target GABA receptors due to its therapeutic properties.

Promotes Relaxation and Sleep

GABA extract substantially affects sleep quality and duration. By inhibiting neural excitability, GABA has been shown to reduce mental and physical stress and induce relaxation and sleep. [7] In one study, individuals with insomnia were found to have 30% lower levels of GABA compared to the control group. [8]

In another study, researchers gave mice a 100 mg/kg GABA extract from fermented rice to evaluate its effect on caffeine-induced sleep disturbance. Despite the presence of caffeine, the results showed that GABA offset the symptoms of insomnia without negatively affecting motor function. [9]

Even more, a 2015 study examined its effect on sleep latency. The findings indicated that supplementing with GABA helped the test subjects fall asleep 5 minutes faster than the control. [10] 

Boosts Immunity and Gut Health

Due to its calming effects, GABA has the potential to boost immune and gastrointestinal function. In fact, clinical trials on mice found GABA may regulate appetite and promote a healthy metabolism due to the abundance of GABA receptors in the gut. [11]

GABA is an important factor in the healthy functioning of the immune and endocrine systems. There is new research indicating GABA may be beneficial at reducing inflammation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Indeed, a review in the Journal of Neuroinflammation demonstrated that GABA could decrease the activity of neural pathways responsible for stimulating joint inflammation. [12]

Enhances Focus and Cognitive Function

Another one of GABA’s health benefits is its ability to improve focus and reduce symptoms in individuals with attention deficit disorder. ADHD causes short attention span, hyperactivity and impulsivity.

This theory was put to the test when scientists examined the GABA levels of children with and without ADHD. Those with ADHD had significantly reduced concentrations in the brain vs. the control group. Thus, we can hypothesize that raising the brain’s natural GABA levels may be great for focus and cognition. [13]

  What is GABA as a supplement? 

Despite the disagreement on the ability of GABA to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB), new research is showing that GABA may be absorbed by both the brain and the gut.

The blood-brain barrier is a selectively permeable membrane that keeps our blood and cerebrospinal fluid separate to let certain chemical substances in and keep some of the bad guys out. This barrier is essential as it protects the brain by blocking the entry of certain drugs or substances to cross over or lessen their effect.

What we do know about the BBB is that it contains transporters for GABA, but that GABA is removed at a much faster rate than when it enters. Despite these findings, research is now showing that the enteric nervous system, the group of neurons which control your gastrointestinal tract, contains GABA receptors and GABA molecules. [14]

GABA activity in the Brain

There are several ways to stimulate the release of GABA from the brain.  These include taking a pure GABA extract or supplementing with extracts which directly increase the brain’s GABA levels such as valerian root [15], ginseng, magnesium and L-theanine. Other known GABA promoters include practising yoga and meditation – this activates the parasympathetic/relaxation response.

If you are still undecided about GABA’s benefits, please refer to our product description for more information.

  GABA Side Effects and Usage 

GABA is considered safe for most people and appropriate for daily intake making it a safe alternative for a sleeping aid. [16]

The recommended serving size for this supplement is 1000 mg, taken once to three times daily. Side effects may be experienced when taken in high doses. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, avoid taking GABA as there isn’t enough information in this respect.

Further, if you are taking any medications or sleeping, please consult with your health care practitioner as it could interfere with these medications.

  Conclusion: What is GABA?

In summary, we know this inhibitory neurotransmitter plays an essential role in our sleep and stress management. When GABA conversion becomes impaired, glutamate levels and thus neural activity becomes too elevated. As a result, GABA drops and consequently, anxiety and depression ensue.

Although there is much debate as to GABA’s ability to affect the brain, current evidence is showing it is highly effective at promoting restful sleep, reducing inflammation and boosting immunity.

  Medical Disclaimer

Not intended to treat, diagnose, or cure any disease or ailment. Please read and fully understand the potential adverse effects before using this product. These statements have not been reviewed by the FDA and are not written by a medical professional. Please consult your doctor before using any supplements, especially if you have any medical conditions.

  Murielle

Health Consultant, studying Health Sciences and Naturopathic Medicine Researched & written by Murielle and verified by the Liftmode.com Research Team

  Citations and Supporting Literature:

[1] The Brain from Top to Bottom. Mcgill.ca Available online at https://thebrain.mcgill.ca/flash/i/i_01/i_01_m/i_01_m_ana/i_01_m_ana.html

[2] Petroff OA. GABA and glutamate in the human brain. Neuroscientist. 2002 Dec;8(6):562-73. Review. PubMed PMID: 12467378.

[3] GABA: Here’s How It Works In Your Brain + Why It’s So Important. Mindbodygreen.com  available online: https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/gaba-what-is-it

[4] Boonstra E, de Kleijn R, Colzato LS, Alkemade A, Forstmann BU, Nieuwenhuis S. Neurotransmitters as food supplements: the effects of GABA on brain and behavior. Frontiers in Psychology. 2015;6:1520.

[5] Goddard AW, Mason GF, Appel M, Rothman DL, Gueorguieva R, Behar KL, Krystal JH. Impaired GABA neuronal response to acute benzodiazepine administration in panic disorder. Am J Psychiatry. 2004 Dec;161(12):2186-93. PubMed PMID: 15569888.

[6] Kent JM, Mathew SJ, Gorman JM. Molecular targets in the treatment of anxiety. Biol Psychiatry. 2002 Nov 15;52(10):1008-30. Review. PubMed PMID: 12437941.

[7] Gottesmann C. GABA mechanisms and sleep. Neuroscience. 2002;111(2):231-9. Review. PubMed PMID: 11983310.

[8] Winkelman JW, Buxton OM, Jensen JE, Benson KL, O’Connor SP, Wang W, Renshaw PF. Reduced brain GABA in primary insomnia: preliminary data from 4T proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS). Sleep. 2008 Nov;31(11):1499-506. PubMed PMID: 19014069; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC2579978.

[9]  Mabunga DF, Gonzales EL, Kim HJ, Choung SY. Treatment of GABA from Fermented Rice Germ Ameliorates Caffeine-Induced Sleep Disturbance in Mice. Biomol Ther(Seoul). 2015 May;23(3):268-74. doi: 10.4062/biomolther.2015.022. Epub 2015 May 1. PubMed PMID: 25995826; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC4428720.

[10] Yamatsu A, Yamashita Y, Maru I, Yang J, Tatsuzaki J, Kim M. The Improvement of Sleep by Oral Intake of GABA and Apocynum venetum Leaf Extract. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo). 2015;61(2):182-7. doi: 10.3177/jnsv.61.182. PubMed PMID:26052150.

[11] Delgado T. C. (2013). Glutamate and GABA in Appetite Regulation. Frontiers in endocrinology, 4, 103. doi:10.3389/fendo.2013.00103

[12] Kelley, J. M., Hughes, L. B., & Bridges, S. L., Jr (2008). Does gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) influence the development of chronic inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis?. Journal of neuroinflammation, 5, 1. doi:10.1186/1742-2094-5-1

[13] Edden RA, Crocetti D, Zhu H, Gilbert DL, Mostofsky SH. Reduced GABA concentration in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Arch Gen Psychiatry.2012 Jul;69(7):750-3. doi: 10.1001/archgenpsychiatry.2011.2280. PubMed PMID:22752239; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC3970207.

[14] Kakee, A., Takanaga, H., Terasaki, T., Naito, M., Tsuruo, T., and Sugiyama, Y. (2001). Efflux of a suppressive neurotransmitter, GABA, across the blood–brain barrier. J. Neurochem. 79, 110–118. doi: 10.1046/j.1471-4159.2001.00540.x

[15] Santos MS, Ferreira F, Cunha AP, Carvalho AP, Macedo T. An aqueous extract of valerian influences the transport of GABA in synaptosomes. Planta Med. 1994 Jun;60(3):278-9. PubMed PMID: 8073095.

[16] Yamatsu A et al, op., cit., 10

The post What is GABA? (Gamma-Aminobutyric acid): Benefits, Side Effects, and Usage appeared first on LiftMode Blog.

What is GABA? (Gamma-Aminobutyric acid): Benefits, Side Effects, and Usage published first on https://liftmode.wordpress.com/

[liftmode]

What is GABA? (Gamma-Aminobutyric acid): Benefits, Side Effects, and Usage

GABA, or gamma-amino butyric acid, is an amino acid naturally produced in the brain. It acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter or a hormone that is widely distributed in the central nervous system (CNS). Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers released in the body that modulate our mood.

GABA’s main function is to facilitate communication between brain cells. It plays an essential role in cognitive and physiological functions, most importantly it helps us calm down. [1] Increased GABA levels is known to help with sleep, digestion, relaxation and inflammation.

In this article, we will outline the function of GABA, its benefits and the ways to boost its activity! Fortunately, there are ways in which you can increase GABA levels naturally. Some of these include taking pure GABA extract, supplementing with herbs which impact GABA synthesis and trying out lifestyle practices like yoga and meditation. [2]

What is GABA and How Does it Work? 

GABA is widely distributed in the neurons of the cortex and is produced from the precursor glutamate via an enzyme called glutamate decarboxylase. The glutamate neurotransmitter has the opposite role of GABA. Its main function is to excite whereas GABA’s function is to calm down. When glutamate levels are too high, they automatically get converted to GABA to promote calm and balance in the body.

When there isn’t enough GABA serum in the brain, GABA sends chemical signals to the brain to initiate and hinder muscle contractions. This promotes feelings of calm and relaxation, reduces tension and enables smooth and fluid muscle movement. Studies have found low GABA activity to be linked to anxiety, depression, focus, and attention deficits. [3]

In the past, supplementing with GABA was considered ineffective due to its inability to cross the blood-brain barrier, but as discussed below, new research is proving the contrary. [4]

GABA - Uses and Benefits 

Scientists have just recently recognized the importance of this neurotransmitter. In fact, GABA is popularized for its ability to relieve symptoms of anxiety, inflammation, ADHD, insomnia, and premenstrual symptoms. That is why it is critical to maintaining balanced levels of GABA and glutamate in the brain. Here are a few of our top benefits and uses for GABA.

Relieves Stress

Studies have shown that GABA may be effective at reducing stress. GABA is a known inhibitory neurotransmitter, meaning it reduces nerve excitability and helps with stress.

Researchers believe there is a strong correlation between low GABA levels and mood disorders. One study from the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons’ Department of Psychiatry found that patients with a family history of anxiety disorders or those afflicted by these conditions had reduced brain concentrations of GABA. Another study found panic attacks occurred more in individuals with obstructed GABA response. [5] [6]

In effect, many anti-depressants, sleep medications and anticonvulsants target GABA receptors due to its therapeutic properties.

Promotes Relaxation and Sleep

GABA extract substantially affects sleep quality and duration. By inhibiting neural excitability, GABA has been shown to reduce mental and physical stress and induce relaxation and sleep. [7] In one study, individuals with insomnia were found to have 30% lower levels of GABA compared to the control group. [8]

In another study, researchers gave mice a 100 mg/kg GABA extract from fermented rice to evaluate its effect on caffeine-induced sleep disturbance. Despite the presence of caffeine, the results showed that GABA offset the symptoms of insomnia without negatively affecting motor function. [9]

Even more, a 2015 study examined its effect on sleep latency. The findings indicated that supplementing with GABA helped the test subjects fall asleep 5 minutes faster than the control. [10] 

Boosts Immunity and Gut Health

Due to its calming effects, GABA has the potential to boost immune and gastrointestinal function. In fact, clinical trials on mice found GABA may regulate appetite and promote a healthy metabolism due to the abundance of GABA receptors in the gut. [11]

GABA is an important factor in the healthy functioning of the immune and endocrine systems. There is new research indicating GABA may be beneficial at reducing inflammation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Indeed, a review in the Journal of Neuroinflammation demonstrated that GABA could decrease the activity of neural pathways responsible for stimulating joint inflammation. [12]

Enhances Focus and Cognitive Function

Another one of GABA’s health benefits is its ability to improve focus and reduce symptoms in individuals with attention deficit disorder. ADHD causes short attention span, hyperactivity and impulsivity.

This theory was put to the test when scientists examined the GABA levels of children with and without ADHD. Those with ADHD had significantly reduced concentrations in the brain vs. the control group. Thus, we can hypothesize that raising the brain's natural GABA levels may be great for focus and cognition. [13]

  What is GABA as a supplement? 

Despite the disagreement on the ability of GABA to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB), new research is showing that GABA may be absorbed by both the brain and the gut.

The blood-brain barrier is a selectively permeable membrane that keeps our blood and cerebrospinal fluid separate to let certain chemical substances in and keep some of the bad guys out. This barrier is essential as it protects the brain by blocking the entry of certain drugs or substances to cross over or lessen their effect.

What we do know about the BBB is that it contains transporters for GABA, but that GABA is removed at a much faster rate than when it enters. Despite these findings, research is now showing that the enteric nervous system, the group of neurons which control your gastrointestinal tract, contains GABA receptors and GABA molecules. [14]

GABA activity in the Brain

There are several ways to stimulate the release of GABA from the brain.  These include taking a pure GABA extract or supplementing with extracts which directly increase the brain’s GABA levels such as valerian root [15], ginseng, magnesium and L-theanine. Other known GABA promoters include practising yoga and meditation – this activates the parasympathetic/relaxation response.

If you are still undecided about GABA’s benefits, please refer to our product description for more information.

  GABA Side Effects and Usage 

GABA is considered safe for most people and appropriate for daily intake making it a safe alternative for a sleeping aid. [16]

The recommended serving size for this supplement is 1000 mg, taken once to three times daily. Side effects may be experienced when taken in high doses. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, avoid taking GABA as there isn’t enough information in this respect.

Further, if you are taking any medications or sleeping, please consult with your health care practitioner as it could interfere with these medications.

  Conclusion: What is GABA?

In summary, we know this inhibitory neurotransmitter plays an essential role in our sleep and stress management. When GABA conversion becomes impaired, glutamate levels and thus neural activity becomes too elevated. As a result, GABA drops and consequently, anxiety and depression ensue.

Although there is much debate as to GABA’s ability to affect the brain, current evidence is showing it is highly effective at promoting restful sleep, reducing inflammation and boosting immunity.

  Medical Disclaimer

Not intended to treat, diagnose, or cure any disease or ailment. Please read and fully understand the potential adverse effects before using this product. These statements have not been reviewed by the FDA and are not written by a medical professional. Please consult your doctor before using any supplements, especially if you have any medical conditions.

  Murielle

Health Consultant, studying Health Sciences and Naturopathic Medicine Researched & written by Murielle and verified by the Liftmode.com Research Team

  Citations and Supporting Literature:

[1] The Brain from Top to Bottom. Mcgill.ca Available online at https://thebrain.mcgill.ca/flash/i/i_01/i_01_m/i_01_m_ana/i_01_m_ana.html

[2] Petroff OA. GABA and glutamate in the human brain. Neuroscientist. 2002 Dec;8(6):562-73. Review. PubMed PMID: 12467378.

[3] GABA: Here's How It Works In Your Brain + Why It's So Important. Mindbodygreen.com  available online: https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/gaba-what-is-it

[4] Boonstra E, de Kleijn R, Colzato LS, Alkemade A, Forstmann BU, Nieuwenhuis S. Neurotransmitters as food supplements: the effects of GABA on brain and behavior. Frontiers in Psychology. 2015;6:1520.

[5] Goddard AW, Mason GF, Appel M, Rothman DL, Gueorguieva R, Behar KL, Krystal JH. Impaired GABA neuronal response to acute benzodiazepine administration in panic disorder. Am J Psychiatry. 2004 Dec;161(12):2186-93. PubMed PMID: 15569888.

[6] Kent JM, Mathew SJ, Gorman JM. Molecular targets in the treatment of anxiety. Biol Psychiatry. 2002 Nov 15;52(10):1008-30. Review. PubMed PMID: 12437941.

[7] Gottesmann C. GABA mechanisms and sleep. Neuroscience. 2002;111(2):231-9. Review. PubMed PMID: 11983310.

[8] Winkelman JW, Buxton OM, Jensen JE, Benson KL, O'Connor SP, Wang W, Renshaw PF. Reduced brain GABA in primary insomnia: preliminary data from 4T proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS). Sleep. 2008 Nov;31(11):1499-506. PubMed PMID: 19014069; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC2579978.

[9]  Mabunga DF, Gonzales EL, Kim HJ, Choung SY. Treatment of GABA from Fermented Rice Germ Ameliorates Caffeine-Induced Sleep Disturbance in Mice. Biomol Ther(Seoul). 2015 May;23(3):268-74. doi: 10.4062/biomolther.2015.022. Epub 2015 May 1. PubMed PMID: 25995826; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC4428720.

[10] Yamatsu A, Yamashita Y, Maru I, Yang J, Tatsuzaki J, Kim M. The Improvement of Sleep by Oral Intake of GABA and Apocynum venetum Leaf Extract. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo). 2015;61(2):182-7. doi: 10.3177/jnsv.61.182. PubMed PMID:26052150.

[11] Delgado T. C. (2013). Glutamate and GABA in Appetite Regulation. Frontiers in endocrinology, 4, 103. doi:10.3389/fendo.2013.00103

[12] Kelley, J. M., Hughes, L. B., & Bridges, S. L., Jr (2008). Does gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) influence the development of chronic inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis?. Journal of neuroinflammation, 5, 1. doi:10.1186/1742-2094-5-1

[13] Edden RA, Crocetti D, Zhu H, Gilbert DL, Mostofsky SH. Reduced GABA concentration in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Arch Gen Psychiatry.2012 Jul;69(7):750-3. doi: 10.1001/archgenpsychiatry.2011.2280. PubMed PMID:22752239; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC3970207.

[14] Kakee, A., Takanaga, H., Terasaki, T., Naito, M., Tsuruo, T., and Sugiyama, Y. (2001). Efflux of a suppressive neurotransmitter, GABA, across the blood–brain barrier. J. Neurochem. 79, 110–118. doi: 10.1046/j.1471-4159.2001.00540.x

[15] Santos MS, Ferreira F, Cunha AP, Carvalho AP, Macedo T. An aqueous extract of valerian influences the transport of GABA in synaptosomes. Planta Med. 1994 Jun;60(3):278-9. PubMed PMID: 8073095.

[16] Yamatsu A et al, op., cit., 10

The post What is GABA? (Gamma-Aminobutyric acid): Benefits, Side Effects, and Usage appeared first on LiftMode Blog.

[cancersfakianakis1]

Comparative Outcomes After Definitive Chemoradiotherapy Using Proton Beam Therapy Versus Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy for Esophageal Cancer: A Retrospective, Single-Institutional Analysis

Publication date: 1 November 2017 Source:International Journal of Radiation Oncology*Biology*Physics, Volume 99, Issue 3 Author(s): Mian Xi, Cai Xu, Zhongxing Liao, Joe Y. Chang, Daniel R. Gomez, Melenda Jeter, James D. Cox, Ritsuko Komaki, Reza Mehran, Mariela A. Blum, Wayne L. Hofstetter, Dipen M. Maru, Manoop S. Bhutani, Jeffrey H. Lee, Brian Weston, Jaffer A. Ajani, Steven H. Lin PurposeTo compare clinical outcomes between proton beam therapy (PBT) and intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) in patients with esophageal cancer (EC) treated with definitive chemoradiotherapy (CRT).Methods and MaterialsFrom 2007 through 2014, 343 EC patients who received definitive CRT with either PBT (n=132) or IMRT (n=211) were retrospectively analyzed. Survival, recurrence, and treatment toxicity were compared between groups. A Cox proportional hazards regression model was performed to test the association between patient/treatment variables and survival.ResultsPatient/treatment variables were overall well balanced, except for age and race. Compared with IMRT, PBT had significantly better overall survival (OS; P=.011), progression-free survival (PFS; P=.001), distant metastasis–free survival (DMFS; P=.031), as well as marginally better locoregional failure–free survival (LRFFS; P=.075). No significant differences in rates of treatment-related toxicities were observed between groups. On multivariate analysis, IMRT had worse OS (hazard ratio [HR] 1.454; P=.01), PFS (HR 1.562; P=.001), and LRFFS (HR 1.461; P=.041) than PBT. Subgroup analysis by clinical stage revealed considerably higher 5-year OS (34.6% vs 25.0%, P=.038) and PFS rates (33.5% vs 13.2%, P=.005) in the PBT group for patients with stage III disease. However, no significant intergroup differences in survival were identified for stage I/II patients.ConclusionsCompared with IMRT, PBT might be associated with improved OS, PFS, and LRFFS, especially in EC patients with locally advanced disease. These results need confirmation by prospective studies. http://ift.tt/2w9742e

[soumarhea]

Planes Human!au character ref sheet updated designs + new additions. (I'm sticking with the chibi style this time since it's mass-producible. One day I'll try the semi-real style again.) [Prev. post]

Dusty; (clockwise from top-left: Farm boy, Honorary Jolly Rogers, Firefighter, and Air racer.)

I would've given him a cap to match his og character design, but I like his hair...

Decides to go plain and simple with his Honorary Jolly Rogers flight suit.

Leadbottom sponsored for his air racer suit. Dusty is thankful for it, but that doesn't mean he's a big fan of Vitaminamulch being front and center. (As long as it's not on his plane, he'll tolerate it.)

Firefighter flight suit is just Blade's spare suit customized for Dusty. The Air Attack team get their entertainment (read: teasing) out of it.

Skipper;

His old flight suit and the fresh new one he got when he returns to the Flysenhower.

Blade;

Gave him a cap while deployed to fight fire, just to match his og character design. Also, he's more serious while on active duty.

Dipper;

No major changes, I like her design the way she is.

Windlifter;

Decides to add the shades he tried at the Lodge because it actually looks cute on him lol. Maru didn't lie when he said he look good.

Cabbie;

Was debating on giving him a prosthetic right arm, but am not sure how well that'd work with his career as an aerial firefighter.

Smokejumpers: (top-bottom: Dynamite, Drip, Blackout, Pinecone, and Avalanche.)

Clockwise from top-left: Their wildland firefighting uniform without their gears; casuals while on duty; and their smokejumpers' jumpsuit also without all the gears.

I still haven't decided between having Cabbie's C119 as an air tanker or as the smokejumpers' jump plane.

Maru and Patch;

Every guys here are baby face except for Maru lol. (I would give Skipper some facial hair, but Leadbottom already shown us how a plane with similar nose cowling can depicts facial hair, and I have a hard time getting out of that "babyface Skipper" mindset since.)

CHoPs;

The only major change was which way Nick's fringe swept to.

Height comparison. (I'm too lazy to draw it myself so have chart instead.)

Tried cramming the entire Air Attack crew in one, but Patch was just... a bar. (My ass can't read that "Maximum 10" alright?) Splitting it in two to fit more people in;

And I still forgot Skipper smh. For simplicity sake, he's the same height as Blade (I couldn't be bothered atp).

[soumarhea]

Piston Peak Air Attack base, concept arts from The Art of Planes. Excerpts added where relevant.

[Residential circle]

Dusty’s ultimate destination on his journey to Piston Peak National Park is the Air Attack Base, where he will train to be a firefighter under the guidance of Mayday’s associate, Blade Ranger. The base stands west of Canopy Dome, on the outskirts of the park. The location of the base was intentionally separated from the park proper so that the firefighters could never be mistaken for stepping into the fire and risking their lives because they themselves are already in danger. “It needed to be clear that they are making the distinct decision that there are people who need their help and they are putting themselves in danger to help them,” explains Planes: Fire & Rescue director Bobs Gannaway.

Piston Peak National Park official map;

Main hangar;

Don't mind Dusty. He's watching CHoPs.

I didn't find any excerpts talking about the main hanger specifically, but the main hangar is BIG big. It has to be, to shelter two of the base's large aircraft simultaneously.

Smokejumpers hangar; (If you're standing at the main hangar entrance looking out, it's to the right.)

Again, no excerpts directly talking about the jumpers' hangar. But in the film proper, iirc, you can see that it can actually house ~six jumpers (there's about six lockers in the hangar iirc).

Maru's workspace and Patch's tower; (standing at the main hangar looking out, it's to the left, across the jumpers' hangar. Main entrance to the base is between the main hangar and Maru's workspace, I think.)

Maru’s workspace is an airfoil shaped hangar with an open door garage to make the constant wheeling in and out of aircraft more efficient. By the looks of his space, Maru is a pack rat, and “all of the shelving is pallet-based, since that’s the way forklifts manage storage,” adds Planes: Fire & Rescue art director Toby Wilson. From his garage, Maru can oversee the whole base in his perchlike location, and he also maintains the Wall of Heroes, a tribute to the fallen members of the team.

This has nothing to do with the tower itself, but I found it interesting;

Patch is an aircraft tug who serves as the dispatcher at the base. She never leaves her tower, from which she mans the radio and scans the skies, ready and waiting to sound the Klaxon to call the team to action. In her downtime, she’s a bit obsessive about keeping her tower windows clean, and she uses the PA to broadcast her favorite vinyl albums across the base. Graphic designer Marty Baumann quite enjoyed the task of brainstorming and designing the albums in her collection, with a bent toward 1970s heavy metal and soft rock.