cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Physical, chemical, and nutritional characteristics of distillers dried grains with solubles for chicks and pigs.

The physical characteristics, chemical composition, and nutritional value of distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) from seven beverage alcohol and two fuel alcohol manufacturers were evaluated in studies with chicks and pigs. Color scores of the DDGS ranged from very light to very dark and odor scores ranged from normal to burnt or smoky. The DDGS ranged from 23.4 to 28.7% CP, 2.9 to 12.8% fat, 8.8 to 36.9% ADIN, 28.8 to 40.3% NDF, 10.3 to 18.1% ADF, and 3.4 to 7.3% ash. Lysine concentrations of the DDGS ranged from .43 to .89%. In the first experiment, 12 corn-based diets were fed to 1-d-old chicks for 21 d to assess the nutritional value of the DDGS sources. A low-protein basal diet was supplemented with soybean meal to provide 13.6, 16.5, or 19.0% CP or supplemented with 20% DDGS, which supplied approximately the same amount of CP as the highest level of soybean meal. Weight gain, feed intake, and feed/gain were influenced (P < .01) by source of DDGS. The weight gain of chicks fed the DDGS sources ranged from 85% of that chicks fed the highest level of soybean meal to less than that of chicks fed the low-protein basal diet. Blends of the three best sources of DDGS and the three poorest sources of DDGS were evaluated in a subsequent chick trial. The relative nutritional values of the two blends were similar to the average of the sources that made up the blends. Performance responses to various blends of DDGS in the pig experiment paralleled those of the chick trial.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Do shorter lengths of stay increase readmissions after total joint replacements

Background Enhanced recovery after surgery protocols for total joint replacements (TJRs) emphasize early discharge, yet the impact on readmissions is not well documented. We evaluate the impact of a one-day length of stay (LOS) discharge protocol on readmissions. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of all primary TJRs (hip and knee) from April 2014 to March 2015. Patients who had adequate support to be discharged home were categorized into 2 groups, 1-day (n = 174) vs 2-day (n = 285) LOS groups. Patients discharged to rehabilitation were excluded (n = 196). Results Patients in the 1 day group were more likely to be younger (61.7 vs 64.8 years, P P = .001), and have a lower body mass index (30.0 vs 31.4 kg/m 2 , P = .012). One-day LOS patients had shorter surgical times (79.7 vs 85.6 minutes, P = .001) and more likely had spinal anesthesia (46.0% vs 31.2%, P = .001). The overall 30-day all-cause (2.3% vs 2.5%, P = .591) and 90-day wound-related (1.1% vs 1.1%, P = .617) readmission rates were equivalent between groups. Conclusions Early discharge does not increase readmissions and may help attenuate costs associated with TJRs. Further refinement of protocols may allow for more patients to be safely discharged on postoperative day 1.
Reconstitution of a eukaryotic replisome reveals the mechanism of asymmetric distribution of DNA polymerases

Eukaryotes require 3 DNA polymerases for normal replisome operations, DNA polymerases (Pol) α, delta and epsilon. Recent biochemical and structural studies support the asymmetric use of these polymerases on the leading and lagging strands. Pol epsilon interacts with the 11-subunit CMG helicase, forming a 15-protein leading strand complex that acts processively in leading strand synthesis in vitro, but Pol epsilon is inactive on the lagging strand. The opposite results are observed for Pol delta with CMG. Pol delta is highly active on the lagging strand in vitro, but has only feeble activity with CMG on the leading strand. Pol α also functions with CMG to prime both strands, and is even capable of extending both strands with CMG present. However, extensive DNA synthesis by Pol α is sharply curtailed by the presence of either Pol epsilon or Pol delta, which limits the role of the low fidelity Pol α to the initial priming of synthesis.
Topological sigma models on supermanifolds

Abstract This paper concerns constructing topological sigma models governing maps from semirigid super Riemann surfaces to general target supermanifolds. We define both the A model and B model in this general setup by defining suitable BRST operators and physical observables. Using supersymmetric localization, we express correlation functions in these theories as integrals over suitable supermanifolds. In the case of the A model, we obtain an integral over the supermoduli space of “superinstantons”. The language of supergeometry is used extensively throughout this paper.
Evaluating Public Charity Websites : Stage Model versus Automated Service.

In this study, we explore nonprofit website development by applying two different types of website assessment tools to US charity websites. One instrument is theoretically based in nonprofit tendencies; the other is a commercial automated service. The results of these evaluation tools are further analyzed to determine whether the instruments are sufficiently independent for evaluation of nonprofit websites. The results illuminate differences in the assessment tools, finding them to be complementary. Each method offers different insights into website development deficiencies and avenues for improvement.
Antileishmanial Efficacy and Pharmacokinetics of DB766-Azole Combinations

Given the limitations of current antileishmanial drugs and the utility of oral combination therapy for other infections, developing an oral combination against visceral leishmaniasis should be a high priority. In vitro combination studies with DB766 and antifungal azoles against intracellular Leishmania donovani showed that posaconazole and ketoconazole, but not fluconazole, enhanced DB766 potency. Pharmacokinetic analysis of DB766-azole combinations in uninfected Swiss Webster mice revealed that DB766 exposure was increased by higher posaconazole and ketoconazole doses, while DB766 decreased ketoconazole exposure. In L. donovani-infected BALB/c mice, DB766-posaconazole combinations given orally for 5 days were more effective than DB766 or posaconazole alone. For example, 81% ± 1% (means ± standard errors) inhibition of liver parasite burden was observed for 37.5 mg/kg of body weight DB766 plus 15 mg/kg posaconazole, while 37.5 mg/kg DB766 and 15 mg/kg posaconazole administered as monotherapy gave 40% ± 5% and 21% ± 3% inhibition, respectively. Combination index (CI) analysis indicated that synergy or moderate synergy was observed in six of nine combined dose groups, while the other three were nearly additive. Liver concentrations of DB766 and posaconazole increased in almost all combination groups compared to monotherapy groups, although many increases were not statistically significant. For DB766-ketoconazole combinations evaluated in this model, two were antagonistic, one displayed synergy, and one was nearly additive. These data indicate that the efficacy of DB766-posaconazole and DB766-ketoconazole combinations in vivo is influenced in part by the pharmacokinetics of the combination, and that the former combination deserves further consideration in developing new treatment strategies against visceral leishmaniasis.
Ascorbate Decreases Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs) in Mice with Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma (PDAC)

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are intact cells, the closest representation of human tissue compatible with immunohistochemistry and traditional pathology protocols. Importantly, CTCs are thought to play a central role in metastatic disease spread by detaching from primary disease sites, entering circulation, and seeding distant tissues. Pharmacological ascorbate has shown promise as a potential adjuvant for advanced pancreatic cancer (PDAC) treatment through its ability to generate H2O2 leading to selective cancer cytotoxicity. The study presented here utilizes an animal model and newly developed PDAC CTC assay to reliably determine the effect of ascorbate treatment on the concentration of CTCs. MIA PaCA-2 human PDAC cells were transfected with pQClucIN and pMSCV-IRES-GFP plasmids to express luciferase and green fluorescent protein (GFP) and facilitate in vivo bioluminescent imaging. A 20 µL matrigel slurry was prepared to suspend 4 x 105 cells for orthotopic intrapancreatic injection into 16 nude mice under ultrasound guidance. On day 35, 10 control mice began twice daily saline injections (4 g/kg) and 6 treatment mice began BID ascorbate injections (4 g/kg). On day 50, CTCs were analyzed by flow cytometry to detect circulating GFP-expressing cancer cells. Tumor growth over time, as measured by bioluminescent imaging signal strength, increased equally between groups prior to treatment but slowed significantly in mice treated with pharmacological ascorbate compared to control (p
Confronting the Known Unknown: How the Concept of Opportunity to Learn Can Advance Tier 1 Instruction

In this chapter, I argue that the establishment of Tier 1 quality standards and the conceptual expansion of OTL are interconnected, mutually beneficial activities important for truly accessible instruction. To this end, I focus on my conceptual synthesis of OTL (Kurz, Handbook of accessible achievement tests for all students: Bridging the gaps between research, practice, and policy. NewYork, NY: Springer, 2011) due to its (a) operational definition, (b) application in general and special education, and (c) measurement via an online teacher log. I begin by reviewing what is known about high-quality Tier 1 instruction and OTL, continue by synthesizing both literature bases to identify potential sources of evidence for high-quality Tier 1, elaborate by highlighting possible measurement options via a case example, and conclude by setting a research and development agenda for Tier 1 OTL.
Visual evoked potential repeatability using the Diopsys NOVA LX fixed protocol in normal older adults.

Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate the intrasession and intersession repeatability of visual evoked potentials in normal adults over 40 years of age as recorded using the Diopsys NOVA LX fixed protocol. Methods Inclusion criteria were adults aged over 40 years with best corrected distance acuity of 20/40 or better in each eye. Subjects underwent three consecutive visual evoked potential examinations using the Diopsys NOVA LX fixed protocol. All examination procedures were carried out in accordance with the manufacturer recommendations. To assess intersession repeatability, nine subjects returned in 2-6 weeks for repeat examination. Results A total of 46 subjects were recruited. Mean ± SD age: 53±9 years (range: 40-84 years); 69% of subjects were female and 80% were non-white. Coefficients of variation (CVs) and intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs) revealed greater repeatability for P100 latency (CV: 3%-7%; ICC: 0.39-0.76) than for P100 amplitude (CV: 21%-33%; ICC: 0.34-0.69) and greater repeatability for recordings made with high contrast stimuli (amplitude CV: 21%-23%; latency CV: 3%-7%) than low contrast stimuli (amplitude CV: 24%-33%; latency CV: 6%-7%). Minimum detectable change values ranged between 4.50 and 9.95 µv for amplitude and 8.16-15.26 ms for latency. Repeatability was not influenced by age, sex, or race. Conclusion The Diopsys NOVA LX fixed protocol demonstrated clinically acceptable intrasession and intersession repeatability in these healthy older adults, with latency being more repeatable than amplitude and examinations employing high contrast stimuli being more repeatable than those using low contrast stimuli.
Impact of a Direct Bedding Initiative on Left Without Being Seen Rates.

Abstract Background Left without being seen (LWBS) rates have become a key metric of emergency department (ED) flow, and high rates have been associated with poor patient outcomes, especially at busy urban, academic hospitals. Objective To assess a triage intervention's impact on LWBS rates among Emergency Severity Index (ESI) level 2 patients especially at risk for adverse outcomes. Methods We conducted a retrospective review at an urban academic center of LWBS rates prior to and after a “direct bedding” intervention, which directed patients triaged to ESI level 2 to be immediately placed in any available ED area, including those typically reserved for lower-acuity complaints. Our primary analysis employs an adjusted difference-in-difference-in-difference (DDD) approach using controls from the previous year and a nearby affiliate community hospital that did not participate in the intervention. Results Mean daily patient volume increased from 275 to 298 arrivals after the intervention. In the primary DDD analysis, odds of LWBS were lower after the intervention (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 0.56, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.45–0.70, p Conclusions “Direct bedding” of ESI 2 patients may expedite care for the sickest patients, reducing potential harm to patients who might otherwise LWBS, without compromising care for patients triaged to less acute ESI levels.
A Theory of Dynamic Financing and Investment

We study the joint determination of dynamic investment and financial policies by modelling corporate sequential investment decisions in the presence of endogenous financial constraints. We are interested in two questions: first, how optimal investment policy changes today if financing frictions may prevent firms from investing at the first-best level in the future; and second, how firms adjust their financial structure today in the presence of future investment opportunities. We find that when initial financing is fixed, suboptimal debt levels may have a pronounced influence by inducing underinvestment in the future. By choosing optimal capital structure, the firm may mitigate the inefficiency to a substantial degree. In equilibrium, firms optimally follow financial hierarchy in accessing external financing. We also investigate the case when managers choose optimal capital structure but fail to see future investment opportunities. Overall, our findings strongly suggest that financial structure may play a first-order role in investment decisions when dynamic considerations are taken into account.
PET-derived tumor metrics predict DLBCL response and progression-free survival.

[18F] fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) – positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) is used to stage and assess response in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), though the prognostic val...
USE OF A PATIENT-PROVIDER CONTRACT FOR PATIENTS WITH HEART FAILURE: IMPACT ON INPATIENT READMISSIONS AND PATIENT QUALITY OF LIFE

Heart failure (HF) is an epidemic with high morbidity/mortality and poor quality of life (QoL). Studies have shown decreased readmission for patients closely followed by a familiar physician, suggesting that a model of provider-patient partnership holds promise. Behavioral contracts, which emphasize
Mapping black ash dominated stands using geospatial and forest inventory data in northern Minnesota, USA

Emerald ash borer (EAB; Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire, 1888) has been a persistent disturbance for ash forests in the United States since 2002. Of particular concern is the impact that EAB will hav...
Spontaneous oscillations, beating patterns, and hydrodynamics of active microfilaments

We develop a geometrically nonlinear model of the flagellar axoneme that accounts for the stochastic kinetics of molecular motors and results in spontaneous oscillations. We capture the beating patterns of sperm, cilia and $C\phantom{\rule{0}{0ex}}h\phantom{\rule{0}{0ex}}l\phantom{\rule{0}{0ex}}a\phantom{\rule{0}{0ex}}m\phantom{\rule{0}{0ex}}y\phantom{\rule{0}{0ex}}d\phantom{\rule{0}{0ex}}o\phantom{\rule{0}{0ex}}m\phantom{\rule{0}{0ex}}o\phantom{\rule{0}{0ex}}n\phantom{\rule{0}{0ex}}a\phantom{\rule{0}{0ex}}s$ and analyze their hydrodynamics through reduced order models.
Opinion cascades and the unpredictability of partisan polarization

"Culture wars" involve the puzzling alignment of partisan identity with disparate policy positions, lifestyle choices, and personal morality. Explanations point to ideological divisions, core values, moral emotions, and cognitive hardwiring. Two "multiple worlds" experiments (n = 4581) tested an alternative explanation based on the sensitivity of opinion cascades to the initial conditions. Consistent with recent studies, partisan divisions in the influence condition were much larger than in the control group (without influence). The surprise is that bigger divisions indicate less predictability. Emergent positions adopted by Republicans and opposed by Democrats in one experimental "world" had the opposite outcome in other parallel worlds. The unpredictability suggests that what appear to be deep-rooted partisan divisions in our own world may have arisen through a tipping process that might just as easily have tipped the other way. Public awareness of this counter-intuitive possibility has the potential to encourage greater tolerance for opposing opinions.
Influence of rootstock genotype on efficacy of anaerobic soil disinfestation for control of apple nursery replant disease

Apple replant disease (ARD) in production nurseries can negatively impact commercial viability by diminishing tree quality and potentially serving as a source of pathogen inoculum. The current study was carried out to determine the potential for plant genotype to influence anaerobic soil disinfestation (ASD) disease control efficacy. M.9, G.41, and G.935 apple rootstock genotypes were employed. ASD was conducted using orchard grass as the carbon input (10 t ha−1 or 20 t ha −1). Rootstock growth in ASD-treated soils was comparable to that attained in response to soil pasteurization or fumigation with 1,3-dichloropropene/chloropicrin (FUM) in both greenhouse (GT) and nursery field trials (NFT). In GT, Rhizoctonia solani AG-5 root infection and growth performance varied with rootstock genotype and soil treatment. ASD reduced pathogen DNA quantity in roots and improved rootstock growth. Genotype, but not soil treatment, influenced root infestation by Pythium ultimum and R. solani in the NFT. ASD with grass input at 20 t ha −1 improved soil nutrient levels, especially NO3− N, and provided significant weed control in the NFT. Treatments significantly altered composition of the bulk soil and rhizosphere microbiome in GT and these effects were prolonged in ASD-treated soils. In NFT, ASD conducted with orchard grass was uniformly as effective as FUM in the control of ARD and increase in trunk diameter increment, the primary determinant of apple rootstock value. This ASD treatment can be suggested as a potential method for effective control of nursery replant disease across rootstock genotypes varying in disease tolerance.
Chapter 6 – Distribution Spaces

In this chapter the main ingredients of the theory of distributions are presented. After introducing the space of test functions, we define what is meant by a distribution on an open subset of N-dimensional Euclidean space, establish some elementary properties and discuss a number of examples. The notion of distributional derivative is presented in preparation for the later study of distributional solutions of differential equations. The classical definition of convolution is generalized to allow for convolution of functions with distributions, which then in turn lead to a very useful technique for approximation of singular functions or distributions by much more regular ones.
Open surgical repair of juxtarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms in the elderly is not associated with increased thirty-day mortality compared with fenestrated endovascular grafting.

Abstract Objective Endovascular repair of juxtarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms (JAAAs) with fenestrated grafts (fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair [FEVAR]) has been reported to decrease operative mortality and morbidity compared with open surgical repair (OSR). However, previous comparisons of OSR and FEVAR have not necessarily included patients with comparable clinical profiles and aneurysm extent. Although FEVAR has often been chosen as the first-line therapy for high-risk patients such as the elderly, many patients will not have anatomy favorable for FEVAR. At present, a paucity of data has examined the operative outcomes of OSR in elderly patients for JAAAs relative to FEVAR. Therefore, we chose to perform a propensity-matched comparison of OSR and FEVAR for JAAA repair in patients aged ≥70 years. Methods Patients aged ≥70 years who had undergone elective nonruptured JAAA repairs from 2012 to 2018 were identified in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) targeted endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) and AAA databases. Patients who had undergone FEVAR were identified in the targeted EVAR database as those who had received the Cook Zenith Fenestrated endograft (Cook Medical, Bloomington, Ind). Because our study specifically examined JAAAs, those patients who had undergone OSR with supraceliac proximal clamping or concomitant renal/visceral revascularization were excluded. A 1:1 propensity-match algorithm matched the OSR and FEVAR patients by preoperative clinical and demographic characteristics, operative indications, and aneurysm extent. The 30-day outcomes, including mortality, major adverse cardiovascular events, and pulmonary and renal complications, were compared between the propensity-matched OSR and FEVAR groups. Results A 1:1 propensity match was achieved, and the final analysis included 136 OSR patients and 136 FEVAR patients. No significant differences were found in 30-day mortality (4.4% vs 3.7%; odds ratio [OR], 1.21; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.36-4.06; P = .759) between the OSR and FEVAR groups. OSR was associated with a higher incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events compared with FEVAR; however, the trend was not statistically significant (8.1% vs 3.7%; OR, 2.31; 95% CI, 0.78-6.82; P = .131). Compared with FEVAR, the OSR group had significantly greater rates of pulmonary complications (19.1% vs 3.7%; OR, 6.19; 95% CI, 2.30-16.67; P Conclusions In the samples assessed in the present study, the results with OSR of JAAAs in the elderly did not differ from those of FEVAR with respect to 30-day mortality despite a greater incidence of pulmonary and renal complications. Although FEVAR should remain the first-line therapy for JAAAs in elderly patients, OSR might be an acceptable alternative for select patients with anatomy unfavorable for FEVAR.
Political Judgment Under Uncertainty: Dampening Heuristics and Biases (Appendix)

This document provides information on the data used for the corresponding article by Hetherington and Mehlhaff in The Monkey Cage blog, published by The Washington Post. Section 1 gives an overview of the sampling technique used to generate the panel data. Section 2 details key descriptive statistics for the cross-sectional samples as well as the panel sample. Section 3 provides wordings of relevant survey items.
Preliminary Investigation of the Effect of Temperature Control in Friction Stir Welding

Friction stir welding (FSW) is an advantageous solid-state joining process, suitable for many hard to weld materials in the energy, aerospace, naval, and automotive industries. Precipitation strengthened alloys, specifically 2XXX and 7XXX series aluminum alloys, are often joined by FSW to protect the strength of the materials and to avoid cracking. To maximize the strength of FSW joints in these precipitation hardened alloys, the thermal input affect must be better understood. The authors hypothesised that controlling the welding temperature under the dissolution temperature would result in stronger joints. To test the main hypothesis single alloy friction stir “butt” welds were produced, from aluminum 2024-T351 and 7075-T651 alloys, and tensile tested. Spindle speed proportional–integral–derivative (PID) temperature control was implemented to achieve sub-dissolution welding temperatures. This preliminary study will supply additional research to better understand the resulting microstructure, weld properties of sub-dissolution FSW. In addition, a numerical simulation to represent the temperature distribution will be built. Then optimized FSW temperatures could be predicted and tested in these alloys.
Endogenous IPR protection, commercial piracy, and welfare implications for anti-piracy laws

In the presence of commercial digital piracy, should the government provide costly protection for intellectual property rights (IPR)? Under what conditions will government protection and private pr...
The impact of emergency responder musculoskeletal injuries in the State of Ohio.

Background Emergency personnel operate in environments that put them at higher risk of injury to the musculoskeletal system. These injuries result in lost workdays, medical costs, and decreased productivity, all which impact emergency response systems. Objective This study serves to assess the causes, costs, and disability of common work-related musculoskeletal injuries within the police, emergency medical service (EMS) workers, and firefighters of Ohio based on data from the OBWC (Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation). Methods Our dataset included all OBWC injury claims involving a shoulder, low back, or knee from 2010 through 2014. Police and Firefighter leaders were analyzed separately from those not in a leadership role, and workers with combined Firefighter/EMS roles were analyzed separately from "pure" Firefighters and EMS personnel. Data were organized through univariate analysis of variance with post-hoc Tukey tests and analyzed based on the job of the individual and whether the individual was in a leadership role. Results Police Officers had the highest number of total injuries in the dataset, followed by Firefighters and Firefighters/EMS workers. Police Officers and Firefighters injured their back and knees more often than their shoulders, while EMS workers injured their backs and shoulders more often than their knees. Conclusions The mechanisms through which injuries occur are also dependent on the job. Police officers experienced a higher percentage of motor vehicle related back problems, while firefighters had a higher percentage of injuries from overexertion. Musculoskeletal injury claims in these emergency personnel resulted in opioid prescriptions approximately 10%of the time.
Drama Therapy in the Context of Psychiatric Care

Drama therapy involves the systematic use of drama and theatre processes to alleviate distress and to promote health and well-being. In the context of psychiatric care, drama therapists tend to work in four main areas: brief acute inpatient care, long-term inpatient care, outpatient care and staff development. In acute psychiatry, drama therapy may complement allopathic treatments, providing improvements in self-esteem and self-efficacy, distraction and relief from concerns and negative thoughts, insight, and social connection. In outpatient care, drama therapy increases social interaction, facilitates emotional regulation, and offers a means of rehearsing interpersonal skills. With regard to staff development, drama therapeutic techniques may be used to help staff identify and represent feelings concerning their patients, rehearse responses to problems present in the organizational structure, examine the relationship between social factors and the presentation of psychological distress, and increase their own sense of spontaneity and creativity. While the available evidence is promising, further study of the effects of drama therapy in the context of psychiatry will increase access to this creative approach to psychiatric care.
Independent Predictors of Revision Lumbar Fusion Outcomes and the Impact of Spine Surgeon Variability: Does It Matter Whether the Primary Surgeon Revises?

BACKGROUND There is a paucity of information regarding treatment strategies and variables affecting outcomes of revision lumbar fusions. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the influence of primary vs different surgeon on functional outcomes of revisions. METHODS All elective lumbar fusion revisions, March 2018 to August 2019, were retrospectively categorized as performed by the same or different surgeon who performed the primary surgery. Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and clinical variables were collected. Multiple logistic regression identified multivariable-adjusted odds ratio (OR) of independent variables analyzed. RESULTS Of the 130 cases, 117 (90%) had complete data. There was a slight difference in age in the same (median: 59; interquartile range [IQR], 54-66) and different surgeon (median: 67; IQR, 56-72) groups (P = .02); all other demographic variables were not significantly different (P > .05). Revision surgery with a different surgeon had an ODI improvement (median: 8; IQR, 2-14) greater than revisions performed by the same surgeon (median: 1.5; IQR, -3 to 10) (P < .01). Revisions who achieved minimum clinically important difference (MCID) performed by different surgeon (59.7%) were also significantly greater than the ones performed by the same surgeon (40%) (P = .042). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that a different surgeon revising (OR, 2.37; [CI]: 1.007-5.575, P = .04) was an independent predictor of MCID achievement, each additional 2 years beyond the last surgery conferred a 2.38 ([CI]: 1.36-4.14, P < .01) times greater odds of MCID achievement, and the anterior lumbar interbody fusion approach decreased the chance of achieving MCID (OR, 0.19; [CI]: 0.04-0.861, P = .03). CONCLUSION All revision lumbar spinal fusion approaches may not achieve the same outcomes. This analysis suggests that revision surgeries may have better outcomes when performed by a different surgeon.
Family relationships and the interpersonal theory of suicide in a clinically suicidal sample of adolescents.

In a sample of suicidal adolescents (N = 117), we sought to identify how adolescents' attachment to their parents related to a key mechanism of suicide from the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (IPTS). We tested both attachment-anxiety and attachment-avoidance, to both mother- and father-figures as correlates of the IPTS construct, perceived burdensomeness (PB). In addition, we tested PB as a mediator between these attachment variables and adolescent suicide ideation in a path analysis. Our path analysis indicated both mother- and father-related attachment anxiety were associated with PB and PB was related to suicide ideation. We also found an indirect effect of father-related attachment anxiety on suicide ideation. This study provides empirical support for earlier systemic work that proposes how family relationships may influence an adolescent's suicidal ideation. Finally, we provide practical clinical suggestions for how therapists may implement a systemic framework to address a suicidal adolescent and their family relationships.
Lithographically defined 3-dimensional graphene scaffolds

Interferometrically defined 3D photoresist scaffolds are formed through a series of three successive two-beam interference exposures, a post exposure bake and development. Heating the resist scaffold in a reducing atmosphere to > 1000 °C, results in the conversion of the resist structure into a carbon scaffold through pyrolysis, resulting in a 3D sp 3 - bonded glassy carbon scaffold which maintains the same in-plane morphology as the resist despite significant shrinkage. The carbon scaffolds are readily modified using a variety of deposition methods such as electrochemical, sputtering and CVD/ALD. Remarkably, sputtering metal into scaffolds with ~ 5 unit cells tall results in conformal coating of the scaffold with the metal. When the metal is a transition metal such as nickel, the scaffold can be re-annealed, during which time the carbon diffuses through the nickel, emerging on the exterior of the nickel as sp2-bonded carbon, termed 3D graphene. This paper details the fabrication, characterization and some potential applications for these structures.
A View from Switzerland

Master Control Genes in Development and Evolution The Homeobox Story. Walter J. Gehring. Yale University Press, New Haven, CT, 1999. 254 pp. $35. ISBN 0-300-07409-3. In this combination of historical perspective and textbook, Gehring gives a precise personal view of his intellectual lineage and a more detailed (and difficult) survey of different modes of development in animals ranging from worms to mice.
Landfilling Versus ``Backstop'' Recycling When Income Is Growing

The paper considers a dynamic model in which an income stream,growing over time, is optimally divided into consumption andexpenditures on waste disposal, the latter being optimally dividedbetween ``recycling''and ``landfilling.'' Recycling is thoughtof as a ``backstop'' waste disposal technology – it does notrequire landfill space but is a relatively expensive method ofwaste disposal. Landfilling uses up scarce landfill capacity. While conserving landfill space is the major reason themunicipality recycles, another motive for recycling might be thatrecycling itself generates utility. Our analysis suggests thatthe optimal recycling program varies considerably with bothlandfill capacity and initial income. For example, richermunicipalities are likely to introduce recycling much earlier inthe planning period than poorer municipalities. Thus whenlegislating recycling, national or regional governments must besensitive to the differences between municipalities.
Song for an Ocean Planet

Great Waters An Atlantic Passage. Deborah Cramer. Norton, New York, 2001. 442 pp. $27.95, C$39.99. ISBN 0-393-02019-3. Cramer uses an ocean voyage as the framework for a natural history of the Atlantic that incorporates findings by oceanographers, geologists, biologists, and chemists. Her account highlights current threats to the sea9s environment and productivity.
The role of the implantable Doppler probe in free flap surgery

Objectives/Hypothesis Free tissue transfer has success rates greater than 95%. Approximately 10% will require reexploration for vascular compromise. Return to the operating room within 48 hours yields the highest rate of successful salvage. Our aim was to determine whether an implantable Doppler used for intraoperative/postoperative monitoring would 1) alter the pattern of detecting flap failure and 2) alter the overall incidence of flap survival. Study Design Prospective analysis. Methods Generic and study specific data was collected. Note was made at the end of the case if revision of the vascular anastomosis was performed. Data was collected for flap outcomes in the postoperative period. Results A total of 1,236 free tissues transfers from 2001 through 2011 were analyzed. Ninety-four were outside the head and neck or the Doppler was not used/inadvertently discontinued. A total of 1,142 flaps make up the study cohort. One hundred thirty-four (11.7%) intraoperative flow problems were detected, all successfully revised. Of these, 15 (11%) required postoperative revision and five (33%) were successfully salvaged, with an overall survival 93%. A total of 1,008 flaps did not require intraoperative revision, 62 required reexploration (6.1%), and 38 (61%) were salvaged. The overall survival was 97.6%. There were eight false positive (no intervention) and 10 false negatives. Sensitivity was 87% with specificity 99%. Conclusion Intraoperative Doppler's increase the detection of immediate/incipient vascular problems. Patients requiring revision in the operating room require revision more often in the postoperative period (P = .03) and are less likely to have successful salvage and a lower flap survival rate (P = .05). Level of Evidence N/A. Laryngoscope, 124:S1–S12, 2014
Efficiency in the steel sector

The iron and steel sector consumes about 19% of global final energy use and accounts for a quarter of direct CO2 emissions from industry and roughly 4.5% of global CO2 emissions (WSA 2008a). Steel production is very energy intensive with 20% to 40% of the cost of steel production derived from energy expenses (WSA 2008a). On average every ton of primary steel produced in a blast furnace results in one-and-a-half to two tons of direct CO2 emissions in OECD countries (ArcelorMittal 2008). The energy efficiency of steelmaking facilities differ greatly depending on production route, type of iron ore and coal used, the steel product mix, operation control technology, and material efficiency (WSA 2008b).
On the Complexity of Semidefinite Programs

We show that the feasibility of a system of m linear inequalities over the cone of symmetric positive semidefinite matrices of order n can be tested in mn^O(min{m,n^2}) arithmetic operations with ln^O(min{m,n^2})-bit numbers, where l is the maximum binary size of the input coefficients. We also show that any feasible system of dimension (m,n) has a solution X such that log||X|| ≤ ln^O(min{m,n^2}).
A new cosmological argument undone

There is an intriguing recent effort to develop a valid cosmological argument on the basis of quite minimal assumptions.1 Indeed, the basis of the new cosmological argument is so slight that it is likely to make even a conscientious theist suspicious – to say nothing of our vigilant atheists. In Section 1 we present the background assumptions and central premises of the new cosmological argument. We are sympathetic to the conclusion that there necessarily exists an intelligent and powerful creator of the actual universe, but we show in Section 2 that the new cosmological argument cannot establish this claim. Specifically, we show by reductio ad absurdum that the new argument is unsound, and that every plausibly modified version of the argument is also unsound.2 We close our discussion with a diagnosis of what went wrong in the new cosmological argument. Our conclusion is that this intriguing new argument promises considerably more than it can show.
Abstract 15295: Molecular Mechanism of Chronic Sildenafil-Caused Regression of Heart Failure: Effects on the Express of Cardiac SR Ca2+-ATPase, Subtype of β-Adrenergic Receptors and Nitric Oxide Synthase Isoforms

Background: Sildenafil (SIL), a selective inhibitor of PDE5 has been shown to exert profound beneficial effects in heart failure (HF). Recently we further found that SIL caused regression of cardiac dysfunction in a rat model with isoproterenol (ISO)-induced progressive HF. However, the molecular basis is unclear. We hypothesized that reversal of HF-induced detrimental alterations on the expressions of cardiac SR Ca 2+ -ATPase (SERCA2a), β-adrenergic receptors (AR) and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) isoforms by SIL may play a key role for its salutary role in HF. Methods: Left ventricular (LV) and myocyte function and the protein levels of myocyte β 1 - and β 3 - AR, SERCA2a, phospholamban (PLB) and three NOS were simultaneously evaluated in 3 groups of male rats (6/group): HF, 3 months (M) after receiving ISO (170 mg/kg sq for 2 days); HF/SIL, 2 M after receiving ISO, SIL (70 μg/kg/day sq via mini pump) was initiated and given for 1 M; and Controls (C). Results: Compared with controls, ISO-treated rats progressed to severe HF at 3 M after ISO followed by significantly decreased LV contractility (E ES , HF: 0.7 vs C: 1.2 mmHg/μl) and slowed LV relaxation, reductions in the peak velocity of myocyte shortening (77 vs 136 μm/sec), relengthening (62 vs 104 μm/sec) and [Ca 2+ ] iT (0.15 vs 0.24) accompanied by a diminished myocyte inotropic response to β-AR agonist, ISO (10 -8 M). These abnormalities were associated with concomitant significant decreases in myocyte protein levels of β 1 -AR (0.23 vs 0.64), SERCA2a (0.46 vs 0.80), PLB Ser16 /PLB ratio (0.24 vs 0.40) and eNOS (0.28 vs 0.46), but significantly increases in protein levels of β 3 -AR (0.29 vs 0.10) and iNOS (0.18 vs 0.08) with relatively unchanged nNOS. Chronic SIL prevented the HF-induced decreases in LV and myocyte contraction, relaxation, peak [Ca 2+ ] iT , and restored normal myocyte contractile response to ISO stimulation. With SIL, protein levels of myocyte β 1 - and β 3 -AR, SERCA2a were restored close to control values, but eNOS was significantly elevated than controls (0.77). Conclusions: Chronic SIL prevents HF-caused downregulation of cardiac β 1 -AR and reverse contrast changes between iNOS and β 3 -AR with SERCA 2a and eNOS expression, leading to the preservation of LV and myocyte function, [Ca 2+ ] iT , and β-adrenergic reserve.
Recommended Practices for Spreadsheet Testing

This paper presents the authors recommended practices for spreadsheet testing. Documented spreadsheet error rates are unacceptable in corporations today. Although improvements are needed throughout the systems development life cycle, credible improvement programs must include comprehensive testing. Several forms of testing are possible, but logic inspection is recommended for module testing. Logic inspection appears to be feasible for spreadsheet developers to do, and logic inspection appears to be safe and effective.
Pro [Whose?] Choice: How the Growing Recognition of a Fetus’ Right to Life Takes the Constitutionality out of Roe

INTRODUCTION Roe v. Wade’s2 granting of constitutional protection for the right to terminate an unwanted pregnancy was, in many ways, just the beginning of the true abortion rights debate.3 The rights of the unborn are a main issue in this debate—mainly whether they have rights as a human person that could protect their lives from ending before birth. While the Court has since declined to officially and fully address the issue, there is a growing recognition of the personhood of the unborn child both from a medical4 and social5 standpoint. One cannot help but wonder what impact the expanding recognition of fetal rights will have on the already shaky future of Roe. This Comment will argue that recent trends in legislation and modern scientific development call for the fulfillment of Roe’s own acknowledgement that the right to life will “collapse” the right to an abortion. Part I lays out the history of abortion
Melting of polycaprolactam.

Time dependent melting of polycaprolactam determined by differential thermal analysis and scanning chlorimetry, discussing different morphologies
Gut Pathogens: Freeloading Dinner Guests?

The human intestine is colonized by a complex community of microbes (the microbiota) that feed on its nutrients and ultimately protect it from infection by harmful bacteria. Antibiotic treatment, which alters the intestinal microbiota, is a main risk factor for development of intestinal infections due to these harmful bacteria . Ng and colleagues recently used a mouse model to explore how antibiotics alter the intestinal environment to allow harmful bacteria to establish infection. The authors colonized “germ-free” mice (those without intestinal microbes) with a single strain of Bacteroides , a species of bacteria that normally colonizes the human intestine. They then infected these mice with two harmful bacterial pathogens that can cause severe intestinal infections, Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium ( S. typhimurium ) and C. difficile. Using a series of experiments comparing gene expression and growth of the harmful bacteria in colonized versus “germ-free” mice, the authors found that the harmful bacteria used the sugar sialic acid as an energy source for growth. This sugar is released from the gut by Bacteroides and is used by some intestinal microbes for energy. When the harmful bacteria were mutated so that they could not use sialic acid, or Bacteroides was mutated so that it could not release sialic acid, the harmful bacteria did not grow well. Last, when mice with normal intestinal microbiota were given antibiotics, gut sialic acid levels spiked within 1 day, which is coincident with harmful bacterial growth. Mutant S. typhimurium and C. difficile strains that could not use sialic acid did not grow well in antibiotic-treated mice, confirming the importance of sialic acid utilization for growth of harmful bacteria after antibiotic treatment. This study demonstrates that intestinal microbes—the good bacteria—are able to prevent infections by certain harmful bacteria by competing with them for carbohydrate nutrients. After antibiotic treatment, harmful bacteria take advantage of gut nutrients released by the good bacteria in order to establish infection. By providing a mechanism by which antibiotics have this effect, this work may pave the way for new strategies to reduce gut sialic acid and prevent antibiotic-associated enteric infections. K. M. Ng et al. , Microbiota-liberated host sugars facilitate post-antibiotic expansion of enteric pathogens. Nature , published online 1 September 2013 (10.1038/nature12503). [[Abstract]][1] [1]: http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/vaop/ncurrent/pdf/nature12503.pdf
Analysis of discriminative control by social behavioral stimuli.

Visual discriminative control of the behavior of one rat by the behavior of another was studied in a two-compartment chamber. Each rat's compartment had a food cup and two response keys arranged vertically next to the clear partition that separated the two rats. Illumination of the leader's key lights signaled a “search” period when a response by the leader on the unsignaled and randomly selected correct key for that trial illuminated the follower's keys. Then, a response by the follower on the corresponding key was reinforced, or a response on the incorrect key terminated the trial without reinforcement. Accuracy of following the leader increased to 85% within 15 sessions. Blocking the view of the leader reduced accuracy but not to chance levels. Apparent control by visual behavioral stimuli was also affected by auditory stimuli and a correction procedure. When white noise eliminated auditory cues, social learning was not acquired as fast nor as completely. A reductionistic position holds that behavioral stimuli are the same as nonsocial stimuli; however, that does not mean that they do not require any separate treatment. Behavioral stimuli are usually more variable than nonsocial stimuli, and further study is required to disentangle behavioral and nonsocial contributions to the stimulus control of social interactions.
Biophysical investigation of the ironome of human jurkat cells and mitochondria.

The speciation of iron in intact human Jurkat leukemic cells and their isolated mitochondria was assessed using biophysical methods. Large-scale cultures were grown in medium enriched with 57Fe citrate. Mitochondria were isolated anaerobically to prevent oxidation of iron centers. 5 K Mossbauer spectra of cells were dominated by a sextet due to ferritin. They also exhibited an intense central quadrupole doublet due to S = 0 [Fe4S4]2+ clusters and low-spin (LS) FeII heme centers. Spectra of isolated mitochondria were largely devoid of ferritin but contained the central doublet and features arising from what appear to be FeIII oxyhydroxide (phosphate) nanoparticles. Spectra from both cells and mitochondria contained a low-intensity doublet from non-heme high-spin (NHHS) FeII species. A portion of these species may constitute the “labile iron pool” (LIP) proposed in cellular Fe trafficking. Such species might engage in Fenton chemistry to generate reactive oxygen species. Electron paramagnetic resonance spec...
Parallel atomistic simulations

Algorithms developed to enable the use of atomistic molecular simulation methods with parallel computers are reviewed. Methods appropriate for bonded as well as non-bonded (and charged) interactions are included. While strategies for obtaining parallel molecular simulations have been developed for the full variety of atomistic simulation methods, molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo have received the most attention. Three main types of parallel molecular dynamics simulations have been developed, the replicated data decomposition, the spatial decomposition, and the force decomposition. For Monte Carlo simulations, parallel algorithms have been developed which can be divided into two categories, those which require a modified Markov chain and those which do not. Parallel algorithms developed for other simulation methods such as Gibbs ensemble Monte Carlo, grand canonical molecular dynamics, and Monte Carlo methods for protein structure determination are also reviewed and issues such as how to measure parallel efficiency, especially in the case of parallel Monte Carlo algorithms with modified Markov chains are discussed.