cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Self-hypnosis reduces anxiety following coronary artery bypass surgery. A prospective, randomized trial.

Objective The role of complementary medicine techniques has generated increasing interest in today's society. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the effects of one technique, self-hypnosis, and its role in coronary artery bypass surgery. We hypotesize that self-hypnosis relaxation techniques will have a positive effect on the patient's mental and physical condition following coronary artery bypass surgery. Experimental design A prospective, randomized trial was conducted. Patients were followed beginning one day prior to surgery until the time of discharge from the hospital. Setting The study was conducted at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center, a large tertiary care teaching institution. Patients All patients undergoing first-time elective coronary artery bypass surgery were eligible. A total of 32 patients were randomized into two groups. Interventions The study group was taught self-hypnosis relaxation techniques preoperatively, with no therapy in the control group. Measures Outcome variables studied included anesthetic requirements, operative parameters, postoperative pain medication requirements, quality of life, hospital stay, major morbidity and mortality. Results Patients who were taught self-hypnosis relaxation techniques were significantly more relaxed postoperatively compared to the control group (p=0.032). Pain medication requirements were also significantly less in patients practising the self-hypnosis relaxation techniques that those who were noncompliant (p=0.046). No differences were noted in intraoperative parameters, morbidity or mortality. Conclusion This study demonstrates the beneficial effects self-hypnosis relaxation techniques on patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery. It also provides a framework to study complementary techniques and the limitations encountered.
Facial Expression Recognition Using Image Motion

The communicative power of the face makes machine understanding and recognition of human expression an important problem in computer vision. There is a significant amount of research on facial expressions in computer vision and computer graphics [11, 23]. Perhaps the most fundamental problem in this area is how to categorize active and spontaneous facial expressions to extract information about the underlying emotional states [6, 26]. Ekman and Friesen [10] have produced the most widely used system for describing visually distinguishable facial movements. This system, called the Facial Action Coding System or FACS, is based on the enumeration of all “action units” of a face which cause facial movements. As some muscles give rise to more than one action unit, the correspondence between action units and muscle units is approximate.
Methods without secant steps for finding a bracketed root

A number of methods that require only function evaluation to find a bracketed root are discussed. The Snyder, Pegasus, and Anderson-Bjorck schemes of Regula Falsi type converge superlinearly, but all use relatively slow secant steps. Two recent methods are faster because they exploit the rational interpolation step used by Anderson and Bjorck, and virtually eliminate secant steps.
Developing non-linear rate constant QSPR using decision trees and multi-gene genetic programming

Abstract Developing a QSPR model, which not only captures the influence of reactant structures but also the solvent effect on reaction rate, is of significance. Such QSPR models will serve as a prerequisite for the simultaneous computer-aided molecular design (CAMD) of reactants, products and solvents. They will also be useful in predicting the rate constant without entirely relying on experiments. To develop such a QSPR, recently, Datta et al. (2017) used the Diels-Alder reaction as a case study. Their model displayed great promise, but there is scope for improvement in the model's prediction metrics. In our work, we improve upon their model by introducing non-linearity. This is achieved using multi-gene genetic programming (MGGP). In our methodology, a combination of genetic algorithm (GA) and directed trees was used to develop a branched version of chromosomes, allowing increased possibility of generation of models with high prediction metrics. In our work, prior to model development through MGGP, principal component analysis (PCA) was conducted. Lastly, models were evaluated based on metrics such as R2, Q2, and RMSE.
Law's Trials: The Performance of Legal Institutions in the US 'War on Terror'

The US 'war on terror' has repeatedly violated fundamental rule of law values. When executive and legislature commit such egregious wrongs, courts represent the ultimate defense. Law's Trials: The Performance of Legal Institutions in the US 'War on Terror' offers the first comprehensive account of judicial performance during the sixteen years of the Bush and Obama administrations. Abel examines criminal prosecutions of alleged terrorists, courts martial of military personnel accused of law of war violations, military commission trials of 'high value detainees', habeas corpus petitions by Guantanamo detainees, civil damage actions by victims of both the 'war on terror' and terrorism, and civil liberties violations by government officials and Islamophobic campaigners. Law's Trials identifies successful defenses of the rule of law through qualitative and quantitative analyses, comparing the behavior of judges within and between each category of cases and locating those actions in a comparative history of efforts to redress fundamental injustices.
Estimating the Cost of Equity Capital for Insurance Firms With Multiperiod Asset Pricing Models

Previous research on insurer cost of equity (COE) focuses on single‐period asset pricing models. In reality, however, investment and consumption decisions are made over multiple periods, exposing firms to time‐varying risks related to economic cycles and market volatility. We extend the literature by examining two multiperiod models—the conditional capital asset pricing model (CCAPM) and the intertemporal CAPM (ICAPM). Using 29 years of data, we find that macroeconomic factors significantly influence and explain insurer stock returns. Insurers have countercyclical beta, implying that their market risk increases during recessions. Further, insurers are sensitive to volatility risk (the risk of losses when volatility goes up), but not to insurance‐specific risks, financial industry risks, liquidity risk, or coskewness after controlling for other economy‐wide factors.
The Effect of Disturbance on Macroinvertebrate Community Structure in Northeastern Oregon

Biodiversity in aquatic ecosystems is generally viewed as a reliable indicator of ecosystem health. High biodiversity indicates a healthy ecosystem that functions properly because of the right combination of physical, chemical, and biological factors. Anthropogenic disturbance decreases biodiversity by modifying these factors. The Grande Ronde and Imnaha River basins in northeastern Oregon are occupied by land uses that could be disturbing aquatic ecosystems. Biological assessments (bioassessments) were used in this study to determine the effects of disturbance on macroinvertebrate community structure within the Grande Ronde, Wallowa, and Imnaha rivers. Macroinvertebrate distribution and abundance data collected from upstream and downstream sites on each river were used to calculate species- and community-level metrics (e.g., richness, abundance and the Family Biotic Index [FBI]) for each site. These metrics revealed differences between sites and between rivers, as well as a decrease in water quality and biodiversity for the Grande Ronde and Imnaha rivers. The Wallowa River did not conform to this trend, likely because the upstream site was directly below an oligotrophic lake. In general, metrics were not indicative of impaired macroinvertebrate communities, but management efforts should be taken to conserve biodiversity in lower reaches of rivers within the Grande Ronde and Imnaha river basins.
Demonstrating set-based design techniques: an unmanned aerial vehicle case study:

The Engineered Resilient Systems research program seeks to improve decision making in the Analysis of Alternatives process by leveraging model-based engineering (MBE) early in the design process to...
CD38 dependent NAD+ depletion contributes to oligodendrocyte loss and inhibition of myelin regeneration

Western-style diets cause disruptions in myelinating cells and astrocytes within the CNS. We identified increased CD38 expression in the mouse spinal cord following chronic high fat consumption or focal demyelinating injury. CD38-catalytically inactive mice are significantly protected from high fat-induced NAD+ depletion, oligodendrocyte loss, oxidative damage, and astrogliosis. 78c, a CD38 inhibitor, increased NAD+ and attenuated neuroinflammatory changes in astrocytes induced by saturated fat. Conditioned media from saturated fat-treated astrocytes impaired oligodendrocyte differentiation pointing to indirect mechanisms of oligodendrogliopathy. Combined saturated fat and lysolecithin demyelination in cerebellar slices resulted in additional deficits in myelin proteins that were mitigated by concomitant 78c treatment. Importantly, oral 78c increased counts of oligodendrocytes and remyelinated axons after focal demyelination. Our findings suggest that high fat diet impairs oligodendrocyte survival and differentiation through astrocyte-linked mechanisms mediated by the NAD+ase CD38, and highlight the use of CD38 inhibitors as potential therapeutic candidates to improve myelin regeneration.
Basal ganglia cavernous malformations: case series and systematic review of surgical management and long-term outcomes.

OBJECTIVE Reports on basal ganglia cavernous malformations (BGCMs) are rare. Here, the authors report on their experience in resecting these malformations to offer insight into this infrequent disease subtype. METHODS The authors retrospectively reviewed a prospectively managed departmental database of all deep-seated cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) treated at Stanford between 1987 and 2019 and included for further analysis those with a radiographic diagnosis of BGCM. Moreover, a systematic literature review was undertaken using the PubMed and Web of Science databases. RESULTS The departmental database search yielded 331 patients with deep-seated CCMs, 44 of whom had a BGCM (13.3%). Headache was the most common presenting sign (53.5%), followed by seizure (32.6%) and hemiparesis (27.9%). Lesion location involved the caudate nucleus in 21.4% of cases compared to 78.6% of cases within the lentiform nucleus. Caudate BGCMs were larger on presentation and were more likely to present to the ependymal surface (p < 0.001) with intraventricular hemorrhage and hydrocephalus (p = 0.005 and 0.007, respectively). Dizziness and diplopia were also more common with lesions involving the caudate. Because of their anatomical location, caudate BGCMs were preferentially treated via an interhemispheric approach and were less likely to be associated with worsening perioperative deficits than lentiform BGCMs (p = 0.006 and 0.045, respectively). Ten patients (25.6%) were clinically worse in the immediate postoperative period, 4 (10.2%) of whom continued to suffer permanent morbidity at the last follow-up. A long-term good outcome (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] score 0-1) was attained in 74.4% of cases compared to the 69.2% of patients who had presented with an mRS score 0-1. Relative to their presenting mRS score, 89.8% of patients had an improved or unchanged status at the last follow-up. The median postoperative follow-up was 11 months (range 1-252 months). Patient outcomes after resection did not differ among surgical approaches; however, patients presenting with hemiparesis and lesions involving the globus pallidus or posterior limb of the internal capsule were more likely to suffer neurological deficits during the immediate perioperative period. Patients who had undergone awake surgeries were more likely to suffer neurological decline at the early as well as the late follow-up. When adjusting for awake craniotomy as a potential confounder of lesion location, a BGCM involving the posterior limb was predictive of developing early postoperative deficits, but this finding did not persist at the long-term follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Surgery is a safe and effective treatment modality for managing BGCMs, with an estimated long-term permanent morbidity rate of around 10%.
A Subset of Localized Prostate Cancer Displays an Immunogenic Phenotype Associated with Losses of Key Tumor Suppressor Genes

Abstract Purpose A subset of primary prostate cancer (PCa) expresses programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), but whether they have unique tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) or genomic features is unclear. Experimental Design We selected PD-L1-positive high-grade and/or high-risk primary PCa, characterized tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILS) with multiplex immunofluorescence, and identified genomic alterations in immunogenic and non-immunogenic tumor foci. Results One-quarter of aggressive localized PCa cases (29/115) had tumor PD-L1 expression >5%. This correlated with increased density of CD8+ T cells, a large fraction co-expressing PD-1, versus absent PD-1 expression on sparse CD8 T cells in unselected cases. Most CD8+PD-1+ cells did not express terminal exhaustion markers (TIM-3 or LAG-3), while a subset expressed TCF1. Consistent with these CD8+PD-1+TCF1+ cells being progenitors, they were found in antigen-presenting-cell niches in close proximity to MHC II+ cells. CD8 T cell density in immunogenic PCa and renal cell carcinoma (RCC) was nearly identical. Shallow RB1 and BRCA2 losses, and deep deletions of CHD1, were prevalent; the latter being strongly associated with a dendritic cell gene set in TCGA. Tumor mutation burden was variable; neither high microsatellite instability nor CDK12 alterations were present. Conclusions A subset of localized PCa is immunogenic, manifested by PD-L1 expression and CD8+ T cell content comparable to RCC. The CD8+ T cells include effector cells and exhausted progenitor cells, which may be expanded by ICIs. Genomic losses of RB1, BRCA2, and CHD1 may be drivers of this phenotype. These findings indicate that immunotherapies may be effective in biomarker-selected subpopulations of localized PCa patients. Statement of Translational Relevance Prostate cancer (PCa) is generally considered poorly immunogenic, with low expression of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) and low density of tumor-infiltrating immune cells. Accordingly, response rates to PD(L)-1 inhibition in unselected patients with advanced prostate cancer have been low. Here, we find that a substantial subset of aggressive primary PCa exhibits tumor PD-L1 expression and contains a high density of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. These lymphocytes contain sub-populations of exhausted progenitor CD8+ T cells and differentiated effector T cells, the hallmarks of ongoing anti-tumor immune response and a prerequisite for response to checkpoint inhibition. Furthermore, we identify genomic alterations that may be contributing to immunogenicity in these cases. These findings point to immune responses elicited in a subset of primary PCa, supporting the development of immune checkpoint blockade clinical trials in early-stage disease, such as biochemically recurrent PCa, that are driven by genomic features of the tumor or the immune microenvironment.
ESI-IM-MS reveals the metal binding of three analog methanobactin peptides with different numbers of free Cys at physiological pH

Abstract Three analog methanobactin (amb7) peptides containing the primary structure acetyl-Leu1-His2-Cys3-Gly4-Ser5-Cys6-Tyr7-Pro8-His9-Cys10-Ser11-Cys12-Met13 but differing by the number of disulfide bridges, have been studied for their reactivity with Fe(III), Mn(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), Ag(I), and Pb(II) using electrospray ionization-ion mobility-mass spectrometry (ESI-IM-MS) and fluorescence quenching. The Pb(II) bound only with the amb7-0 (0 disulfide bonds), Zn(II) only to amb7-0 and amb7-1 (1 disulfide bond), Ni(II) only to amb7-1 and amb7-2 (2 disulfide bonds), and Cu(II) to amb7-2, concomitant with the oxidation of amb7-0 and amb7-1. The reduction of Cu(II) to Cu(I) resulted with 1-4Cu(I) binding to amb7-1 and amb7-0, while Ag(I) also exhibited 1-6 Ag(I) ions binding through a mechanism indicative of labile proton exchange. The binding of the oxidized Co(III/V) and Mn(III/V) were observed at pH 9 and 11, while Fe(III) did not exhibit significant binding. The observed negatively charged complexes were consistent with the deprotonation of the metal sites of Cys, His, carboxyl terminus and indicative of ion-ion interactions with the metal at pH 7, 9, and 11. The positively charged complexes were indicative of ion-dipole metal binding but at pH 9 and pH 11 gave results similar to those of the negative ion analyses. Fluorescence quenching also qualitatively agreed with the ESI-IM-MS results providing evidence that they revealed the solution-phase metal binding behavior of amb7.
Clinical Effect of Systemic Steroids in Patients With Cirrhosis and Septic Shock.

PURPOSE: Evidence regarding the utility of systemic steroids in treating patients with cirrhosis and septic shock remains equivocal. This study aimed to evaluate and elucidate the association of steroid use with outcomes and adverse effects in a cohort of patients with cirrhosis and septic shock. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective cohort study of patients with cirrhosis and septic shock admitted to a tertiary hospital ICU from January 2007 to May 2017, using a validated ICU Datamart. Patients who received vasopressors within six hours of ICU admission were included in the multivariate analysis. The effect of steroids on outcomes was evaluated using multivariable regression, adjusting for confounding variables. RESULTS: Out of 179 admissions of patients with cirrhosis and septic shock, 56 received steroids during the ICU admission. Patients who received steroids received a higher total dose of vasopressors (91.2âmg vs. 39.1âmg, pâ=â0.04) and had a lower initial lactate level (1.8âmmol/L vs. 2.6âmmol/L, pâ=â0.007). The multivariate analysis included 117 patients and showed no significant differences in mortality, length of ICU admission, or length of hospital stay. Bleeding events, delirium, and renal-replacement therapy requirements were also not associated with the use of steroids. CONCLUSION: The use of systemic steroids was more prevalent in cirrhotic patients with higher vasopressor requirements. It was not associated with decreased mortality or increased ICU- and hospital-free days, or to adverse effects.
“Ratio seu methodus Martini Buceri”: Bucer’s Prefatory Lectures on Ephesians and His Use of Biblical Humanist Theological Method

Bucer’s prefatory lectures that preceded the exposition of Ephesians proper were a presentation of his exegetical and theological method. They self-consciously display his effort to meet the requirements of the Cambridge Injunctions and at the same time testify to his continued commitment to the program of biblical humanism. It is necessary to read Bucer’s methodological statement in 1550 within the context of his earlier career, including a brief consideration of his intellectual formation. What we find in this survey is the fact that there was continuity over the years in how he approached the task of teaching and practicing theology. From his earliest days, it was clear he was powerfully influenced by humanism, specifically biblical humanism, and was much under the influence of Erasmus (by his own admission). Upon his arrival in Strasbourg, Bucer was one of the leading practitioners of a Rhenish “school” of exegesis and theology which shaped the theological curriculum in the Gymnasium. Hence, what we find in the prefatory lectures in Cambridge was in keeping with his earlier career. One might characterize his statement as a “Ratio seu methodus Martini Buceri”.
State Bankruptcy: Surviving A Tenth Amendment Challenge

During February 2011 the prospect of creating a state-bankruptcy chapter burst into the national conversation. This debate largely centered on the necessity of state bankruptcy as a means of averting state bailouts, and leading commentators emphasized the need to tread gingerly on state prerogatives under the Tenth Amendment. The constitutionality of bankruptcy for states demands closer scrutiny, given that the Supreme Court’s recent Tenth Amendment jurisprudence has evolved toward protecting state sovereignty. The principles handed down from a pair of cases in the 1930s involving the constitutionality of municipal bankruptcy would likely support upholding a state-bankruptcy chapter that is carefully drawn to respect state sovereignty. Though highly relevant, these cases are not * J.D. 2011, Tulane University Law School; B.A. 2008, cum laude, Bucknell University. Special thanks to Professor Adam Feibelman for his helpful advice and suggestions. Thanks also to my friends and family for all their support, and especially to Danielle Solan for her insightful comments. 1 ADAM SMITH, AN INQUIRY INTO THE NATURE AND CAUSES OF THE WEALTH OF NATIONS 435 (Edwin Cannan ed., The Univ. of Chi. Press 1976) (6th ed. 1793). 1 Solan: State Bankruptcy Published by Digital Commons: The Legal Scholarship Repository @ Golden Gate University School of Law, 2012 218 GOLDEN GATE UNIVERSITY LAW REVIEW [Vol. 42 dispositive, however, because the legal landscape has changed a great deal since the 1930s. Even a broad state-bankruptcy chapter would be constitutional, because recent Tenth Amendment jurisprudence does not preserve traditional state functions. The Court has already upheld many similar infringements on state sovereignty, such as the interference with state contractual obligations. Assuming a state-bankruptcy chapter is constitutional, is it a good idea? The main justification expressed for the creation of a statebankruptcy chapter is that it is necessary to avoid a massive federal bailout, because states are too big to fail. This justification concludes that the grim logic of bailouts applies to the states because they are significantly interconnected with the financial markets.
Fact and Fiction in Economics: Econometrics and reality

Starting with a realist ontology the economic methodologist, Tony Lawson, argues that econometrics is a failed project. Apparently more sympathetic to econometrics, the philosopher of science, Nancy Cartwright, again from a realist perspective, nonetheless argues for conditions of applicability that are so stringent that she must seriously doubt the usefulness of econometrics. In this paper, I reconsider Lawson's and Cartwright's analyses and argue that realism supports rather than undermines econometrics properly interpreted and executed.
Fast multipole acceleration using impedance matrix localization

In the past, a variety of computational schemes has been developed for analyzing electromagnetic scattering from two dimensional (2D) objects. The impedance matrix localization method (IML) developed by Canning [199] constitutes a different method for speeding up MOM matrix-vector multiplications. The IML is designed for objects that are smooth on the scale of the wavelength, and relies on a transformation that numerically sparsifies the MOM matrix. This is achieved by using basis functions that radiate strongly in preferred directions. In this paper, a hybrid IML-FMM (fast multipole method) technique is presented. The IML is used to sparsify the FMM far-field transformation matrices to further speed up the MOM matrix-vector multiplication. Although the proposed method does not decrease the rate of scaling of the computational cost, it does significantly reduce the actual cost associated with the solution of many practical 2D scattering problems. Furthermore, a windowed translation operator is also used, yielding an efficient O(N/sup 4/3/) FMM code for analyzing scattering from 2D perfect electrically conducting surfaces.
Leptogenesis from left-handed neutrino production during axion inflation

We propose that the observed matter-antimatter asymmetry can be naturally produced as a by-product of axion-driven slow-roll inflation by coupling the axion to standard model neutrinos. We assume that grand unified theory scale right-handed neutrinos are responsible for the masses of the standard model neutrinos and that the Higgs field is light during inflation and develops a Hubble-scale root-mean-square value. In this setup, the rolling axion generates a helicity asymmetry in standard model neutrinos. Following inflation, this helicity asymmetry becomes equal to a net lepton number as the Higgs condensate decays and is partially reprocessed by the SU(2)_{L} sphaleron into a net baryon number.
Carotid artery revascularization.

AbstractStroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States, and up to one third of patients have a stroke secondary to carotid occlusive disease. Surgical management has firmly established itself as an important modality in treating this disease. Several prospective randomized trials have defined the patients that would have the most benefit from carotid endarterectomy (CEA). These patient populations include asymptomatic patients with a ≥ 60% stenosis and symptomatic patients with a ≥ 50% stenosis. The timing of CEA after stroke remains controversial, but recent studies advocate early CEA in a select group of patients. During the CEA, the method of closing of the arteriotomy has an overall effect on the safety of the procedure as well as long-term outcome. As compared with primary repair of the arteriotomy, patch closure has been shown to decrease the frequency of restenosis. In addition, carotid eversion endarterectomy (CEE) is an alternative method to remove the plaque that has a similar e...
Concealed conduction during atrial fibrillation.

Abstract Incomplete penetration of an atrial impulse into the atrioventricular node is termed “concealed conduction” and results in a prolongation of the refractory period, which may block or delay the passage of subsequent atrial impulses. The influence of concealed conduction on ventricular rate during atrial fibrillation was determined from data collected on 5 patients who experienced atrial fibrillation concurrent with rapid atrial stimulation by a catheter electrode during the course of atrial pacing studies. One patient who had atrial fibrillation after the occurrence of atrial tachycardia during diagnostic cardiac catheterization is also included. The observations fortuitously noted in man were duplicated in a planned experiment in 10 anesthetized dogs by means of right atrial stimulation with a bipolar pervenous catheter electrode at the fastest rate that would result in 1:1 atrioventricular response. This was immediately followed by induced atrial fibrillation. The ventricular response in both man and dog was greater during atrial tachycardia than during atrial fibrillation. Data analysis revealed a significant difference between the means of paired ventricular rates during induced atrial tachycardia and atrial fibrillation ( P Our observations indicate that concealed conduction within the atrioventricular conduction system influences ventricular rate during atrial fibrillation.
Alprazolam withdrawal insomnia.

A 49-yr.-old man volunteered to be interviewed about withdrawal effects of alprazolam after having taken alprazolam for 3 mo. During the alprazolam-intake period the subject reported improved sleep though he had not suffered previously from insomnia. Upon withdrawal, he experienced bad mood for a few days and severe insomnia for at least 3 wk. The conclusion was made that more attention should be paid to withdrawal-induced insomnia in case of intermediate-acting benzodiazepines such as alprazolam.
Morphologic and quantitative assessment of CD20+ B cell infiltrates in rheumatoid arthritis-associated nonspecific interstitial pneumonia and usual interstitial pneumonia.

Objective B lymphocytes are emerging as important elements in the events leading to joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, B lymphocytes have not been studied in rheumatoid arthritis (RA)–associated lung disease. We performed a morphologic and quantitative analysis of B lymphocytes and plasma cells in RA-associated interstitial pneumonia (IP) in comparison with idiopathic IP and normal lungs. Methods Open-lung biopsy specimens from patients with RA-associated IP (n = 18), patients with idiopathic IP (n = 21), and control subjects (n = 11) were stained with antibodies to CD20 and CD138. Morphologic patterns of stained specimens were characterized and staining was quantified using computer-assisted image analysis. Results In RA-associated IP, marked follicular B cell hyperplasia was detected, which was limited almost entirely to peribronchiolar lymphoid aggregates. Plasma cells were also present in large numbers, but showed a more diffuse tissue infiltration. Quantification of B cells demonstrated higher cellularity in RA-associated IP (median 2.0%, interquartile range [IQR] 1.0–5.7) as compared with idiopathic IP (0.9%, IQR 0.5–2.1). Control specimens showed a significantly smaller number of B cells compared with both diseases (0.4%, IQR 0.1–1.3). In RA patients who were smokers and in those who were male, the proportion of CD20+ tissue areas further increased to 4.3% (IQR 1.0–5.8) and 3.9% (IQR 0.7–6.9), respectively. Conclusion We demonstrated a significant follicular B cell hyperplasia in RA-associated IP. The differences between RA-associated IP and idiopathic IP imply a differential emphasis of B cell–mediated mechanisms in the 2 diseases despite radiologic and histologic similarities and provide a rationale for studying functional aspects of B cell involvement in the pathogenesis of RA-associated IP.
Yield Behavior of Unoriented and Oriented Polycarbonate and Polypropylene as Influenced by Temperature

Abstract The yield behaviors of an amorphous polymer (polycarbonate) and a crystalline polymer (polypropylene) were investigated over certain ranges of temperature. Both polymers were used in an unoriented (isotropic) and an oriented (anisotropic) condition. By using proposed yield criteria for the two structural conditions various theoretical yield loci are predicted; these are then compared with experimental findings based on a number of uniaxial and biaxial stress states. With a few exceptions that seem amenable to rational explanation the comparison between theory and experiment is most promising. The onset of yielding is defined by two methods: using a 0.3% offset and using the concept of plastic work. Similar findings result. Finally, for the range of parameters used in this study it is possible to compare individual results for a given material condition with a single yield locus, regardless of the temperature at which the tests were conducted.
Low dose acute alcohol effects on GABA A receptor subtypes.

GABAA receptors (GABAARs) are the main inhibitory neurotransmitter receptors and have long been implicated in mediating at least part of the acute actions of ethanol. For example, ethanol and GABAergic drugs including barbiturates and benzodiazepines share many pharmacological properties. Besides the prototypical synaptic GABAAR subtypes, nonsynaptic GABAARs have recently emerged as important regulators of neuronal excitability. While high doses (≥100 mM) of ethanol have been reported to enhance activity of most GABAAR subtypes, most abundant synaptic GABAARs are essentially insensitive to ethanol concentrations that occur during social ethanol consumption (<30 mM). However, extrasynaptic δ and β3 subunit-containing GABAARs, associated in the brain with α 4o rα6 subunits, are sensitive to low millimolar ethanol concentrations, as produced by drinking half a glass of wine. Additionally, we found that a mutation in the cerebellar α6 subunit (α6R100Q), initially reported in rats selectively bred for increased alcohol sensitivity, is sufficient to produce increased alcohol-induced motor impairment and further increases of alcohol sensitivity in recombinant α6β3δ receptors. Furthermore, the behavioral alcohol antagonist Ro15-4513 blocks the low dose alcohol enhancement on α4/6/β3δ receptors, without reducing GABA-induced currents. In binding assays α4β3δ GABAARs bind [ 3 H] Ro15-4513 with high affinity, and this binding is inhibited, in an apparently competitive fashion, by low ethanol concentrations, as well as analogs of Ro15-4513 that are active to antagonize ethanol or Ro15-4513's block of ethanol. We conclude that most low to moderate dose alcohol effects are mediated by alcohol actions on alcohol/Ro15-4513 binding sites on GABAAR subtypes.
Infrared photoexcitation and doping studies of poly(3-methylthienylene).

We report detailed photoinduced and doping-induced absorption spectra of poly(3-methylthienylene) (P3MT) in the infrared-frequency range. The four infrared-active translational (T) modes of bipolarons and the weak-ring (R) modes associated with the ring deformation were observed, as in polythiophene (PT). Detailed analysis based on the amplitude-mode formalism shows that the nondegenerate ground state leads to an ``extrinsic'' contribution to the energy gap of 0.26 eV in P3MT, and that the pinning is weaker than in PT.
Social disparities in dentition status among American adults

Objectives: To assess the overall dentition status of American adults, to investigate disparities and changes in dentition using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys 2005–2006 and 2007–2008 and to study the effects of family poverty status, education, citizenship and language on dentition after adjusting for other demographics. Methods: Descriptive statistics were used to explore and summarise dentition status. The prevalence of dentition markers over two surveys were compared using tests of proportions and a series of regressions were used to estimate the strength of association of family poverty status, education, citizenship and language with the four markers of dentition status. Results: Overall, dentition status has improved in adults. However, gaps exist in that non-Hispanic Black and Mexican-Americans have a higher prevalence of dental decay and lower restoration rates than other races. After adjusting for selected demographics, adults with less education (<12 years) and lower family income had significantly higher dental decay rates, lower restoration rates and more missing teeth than those with more education (≥12 years) and those with higher family incomes. Conclusion: This study indicates that disparities in dentition associated with race/ethnicity, education and income still exist among adults in the USA. The results also indicate that to improve overall oral health and close the existing gaps in oral health, increased access to dental care would be needed for people who have low incomes and low levels of education.
The Relative Effectiveness of Signaling Systems: Relying on External Items Reduces Signaling Accuracy while Leks Increase Accuracy

Multiple evolutionary phenomena require individual animals to assess conspecifics based on behaviors, morphology, or both. Both behavior and morphology can provide information about individuals and are often used as signals to convey information about quality, motivation, or energetic output. In certain cases, conspecific receivers of this information must rank these signaling individuals based on specific traits. The efficacy of information transfer associated within a signal is likely related to the type of trait used to signal, though few studies have investigated the relative effectiveness of contrasting signaling systems. I present a set of models that represent a large portion of signaling systems and compare them in terms of the ability of receivers to rank signalers accurately. Receivers more accurately assess signalers if the signalers use traits that do not require non-food resources; similarly, receivers more accurately ranked signalers if all the signalers could be observed simultaneously, similar to leks. Surprisingly, I also found that receivers are only slightly better at ranking signaler effort if the effort results in a cumulative structure. This series of findings suggests that receivers may attend to specific traits because the traits provide more information relative to others; and similarly, these results may explain the preponderance of morphological and behavioral display signals.
Column collapse of granular rods.

We investigate the collapse of granular rodpiles as a function of particle (length/diameter) and pile (height/radius) aspect ratio. We find that, for all particle aspect ratios below 24, there exists a critical height ${H}_{l}$ below which the pile never collapses, maintaining its initial shape as a solid, and a second height ${H}_{u}$ above which the pile always collapses. Intermediate heights between ${H}_{l}$ and ${H}_{u}$ collapse with a probability that increases linearly with increasing height. The linear increase in probability is independent of particle length, width, or aspect ratio. When piles collapse, the runoff scales as a piecewise power law with pile height, with ${r}_{f}\ensuremath{\sim}{\stackrel{\ifmmode \tilde{}\else \~{}\fi{}}{H}}^{1.2\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.1}$ for pile heights below ${\stackrel{\ifmmode \tilde{}\else \~{}\fi{}}{H}}_{c}\ensuremath{\approx}0.74$ and ${r}_{f}\ensuremath{\approx}{H}^{0.6\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.1}$ for taller piles.
Genome-wide association study of conduct disorder symptomatology.

Conduct disorder (CD) is one of the most prevalent childhood psychiatric conditions, and is associated with a number of serious concomitant and future problems. CD symptomatology is known to have a considerable genetic component, with heritability estimates in the range of 50%. Despite this, there is a relative paucity of studies aimed at identifying genes involved in the susceptibility to CD. In this study, we report results from a genome-wide association study of CD symptoms. CD symptoms were retrospectively reported by a psychiatric interview among a sample of cases and controls, in which cases met the criteria for alcohol dependence. Our primary phenotype was the natural log transformation of the number of CD symptoms that were endorsed, with data available for 3963 individuals who were genotyped on the Illumina Human 1M beadchip array. Secondary analyses are presented for case versus control status, in which caseness was established as endorsing three or more CD symptoms (N=872 with CD and N=3091 without CD). We find four markers that meet the criteria for genome-wide significance (P<5 × 10−8) with the CD symptom count, two of which are located in the gene C1QTNF7 (C1q and tumor necrosis factor-related protein 7). There were six additional SNPs in the gene that yielded converging evidence of association. These data provide the first evidence of a specific gene that is associated with CD symptomatology. None of the top signals resided in traditional candidate genes, underscoring the importance of a genome-wide approach for identifying novel variants involved in this serious childhood disorder.
Rabbit ear cartilage regeneration with a small intestinal submucosa graft.

Objectives/Hypothesis: The objective was to demonstrate that interpositional grafting with porcine small intestinal submucosa promotes cartilage regeneration following excision of rabbit auricular cartilage. Study Design: Blinded, controlled study. Methods: Eight New Zealand white rabbits underwent excision of auricular cartilage on two sites with and two sites without preservation of perichondrium. Porcine small intestinal submucosa was implanted into one site with and one site without intact perichondrium. Remaining sites served as control sites. Histological assessment was performed at 3 (n = 4) and 6 (n = 3) months and at 1 year (n = 1) after grafting. Results: Histological evaluation showed cartilage regeneration accompanied by chronic inflammation in areas in which porcine small intestinal submucosa was implanted between layers of intact perichondrium. Other sites failed to show significant cartilage regeneration. Conclusion: The results of the study using porcine small intestinal submucosa as a bioscaffold for cartilage regeneration are promising and justify further animal and human studies.
Experimental investigation of the specific heat of a nitrate–alumina nanofluid for solar thermal energy storage systems

Abstract We measured the change in specific heat of nitrate salt–alumina nanoparticle nanofluids at low nanoparticle concentration (less than 2% by mass) to understand how adding small amounts of nanoparticles affected this property. Alumina nanoparticles were dispersed in a eutectic of sodium nitrate and potassium nitrate (60:40 mole fraction) to create nanofluids using a two-step method. Neutron activation analysis was used to measure the actual mass fraction of the alumina nanoparticles in the nanofluids. The nominal mass fraction was always larger than the actual mass fraction, with differences up to 41%. The specific heat was measured using a modulated differential scanning calorimeter (MDSC). The results showed that there exists a parabolic relation between specific heat and mass fraction of alumina nanoparticles (maximum 30.6% enhancement at 0.78% actual mass fraction of alumina nanoparticles). The measurement uncertainty for the specific heat values was less than 4%. The stability of the specific heat values of the nanofluids was also examined; we found the nanoparticle concentration with the highest specific heat value shifted from 0.78% to 0.3% when the same samples were tested after one and two months.
Enhancing exposure of protein therapeutics.

Therapeutic proteins have made a major impact on medicine, with significant expansion in the past two decades. The medicinal attributes of these agents, particularly their efficacy and often their safety profile, make protein therapeutics attractive, despite the general necessity of invasive (parenteral) delivery. This perceived hurdle has been a primary component in limiting expansion of this class of drug therapies. Strategies that reduce the frequency of administration directly provide greater convenience to the patient, and potentially greater efficacy, that can yield a significant treatment advantage.
Connecting with oceans using underwater acoustic networks

Oceans cover a majority of our planet and are currently lacking in regards to exploration and technological innovations. One technology that can help enable more aquatic applications is underwater acoustic networks (UANs). This article discusses the current status of UANs, the new applications that can be provided, and the challenges faced by this technology.
Determination of Ethanol in Gasoline by FT-IR Spectroscopy

Ethanol is the primary oxygenate in gasoline in the United States. Gasoline containing various percentages of ethanol is readily available in the market place. A laboratory experiment has been developed in which the percentage of ethanol in hexanes can easily be determined using the O–H and alkane C–H absorptions in an infrared spectrum. Standard solutions of ethanol mixed with hexanes are prepared, and their infrared spectra collected. The areas under the O–H and C–H absorptions are used to prepare a standard curve, which is used to determine the percentage of ethanol. Results for the analysis of ethanol in gasoline from this model ethanol/hexanes calibration system compare favorably to advertised values, as well as to values determined by water extraction.
A novel mechanism for non-radiative decay, line broadening and interference effects

Abstract It is shown that in large polyatomic molecules the interelectronic repulsion potential - 1/ r ij - induces radiationless transitions, inhomogeneous line broadening and interference effects leading to anti-resonances, for levels below the first ionization threshold. The interactions involved are the largest known for these processes.
Generalized convex spaces, L-spaces, and FC-spaces

We show that FC-spaces due to Ding are particular types of L-spaces due to Ben-El-Mechaiekh et al., and hence particular types of G-convex spaces. Some counter-examples are given and related matters are also discussed.
Geometry and Earthquake Potential of the Shoreline Fault, Central California

Abstract The Shoreline fault is a vertical strike‐slip fault running along the coastline near San Luis Obispo, California. Much is unknown about the Shoreline fault, including its slip rate and the details of its geometry. Here, I study the geometry of the Shoreline fault at seismogenic depth, as well as the adjacent section of the offshore Hosgri fault, using seismicity relocations and earthquake focal mechanisms. The Optimal Anisotropic Dynamic Clustering (OADC) algorithm (Ouillon et al. , 2008) is used to objectively identify the simplest planar fault geometry that fits all of the earthquakes to within their location uncertainty. The OADC results show that the Shoreline fault is a single continuous structure that connects to the Hosgri fault. Discontinuities smaller than about 1 km may be undetected, but would be too small to be barriers to earthquake rupture. The Hosgri fault dips steeply to the east, while the Shoreline fault is essentially vertical, so the Hosgri fault dips towards and under the Shoreline fault as the two faults approach their intersection. The focal mechanisms generally agree with pure right‐lateral strike‐slip on the OADC planes, but suggest a non‐planar Hosgri fault or another structure underlying the northern Shoreline fault. The Shoreline fault most likely transfers strike‐slip motion between the Hosgri fault and other faults of the Pacific–North America plate boundary system to the east. A hypothetical earthquake rupturing the entire known length of the Shoreline fault would have a moment magnitude of 6.4–6.8. A hypothetical earthquake rupturing the Shoreline fault and the section of the Hosgri fault north of the Hosgri–Shoreline junction would have a moment magnitude of 7.2–7.5.
Thyrotropin-releasing hormone in the gastrointestinal tract

Abstract TRH immunoreactivity has been shown to occur throughout the rat gastrointestinal tract. This immunoreactivity demonstrates parallelism with TRH, is destroyed by fresh human serum, and co-chromatographs with TRH on a Sephadex G-10 column and on a SP Sephadex C-25 column. In addition pancreatic extracts showed bioactivity in a mouse bioassay for TRH.
Collaboration Among Siblings Providing Care for Older Parents

Abstract As their parents age, adult siblings must find ways in which to jointly assist in their care. Based on a sample of 40 focus group participants who described caregiving relationships among siblings, this study focused on those who equitably shared in the care of their parents. Findings indicated that siblings distributed caregiving responsibilities by taking turns as well as by caregiver task and/or expertise. Factors associated with sibling collaboration were: redefining the caregiving system, enjoying time together, setting aside time for care planning, and implementing suggestions from aging parents. Practice implications highlight ways in which to facilitate this collaboration.
Purification and Characterization of Formate Dehydrogenase from Ancylobacter aquaticus Strain KNK607M, and Cloning of the Gene

Ancylobacter aquaticus strain KNK607M, which had high NAD-dependent formate dehydrogenase (FDH) activity, was newly isolated. The enzyme, purified to homogeneity, was a dimer composed of identical subunits with a molecular mass of 44 kDa. The specific activity was 9.5 u/mg, and the enzyme was optimum at pH 6.3 and 50°C, most stable at pH 7.0, and stable at 50°C or lower. The apparent Km values for formate and NAD+ were 2.4 and 0.057 mM, respectively. The enzyme was specific to formate and was inhibited by SH reagents and heavy metal ions. The cloned gene of FDH contained one open reading frame (ORF) of 1206 base pairs, predicted to encode a polypeptide of 401 amino acids, with a calculated molecular weight of 43,895; this gene was highly expressed in E. coli cells. The FDH had high identity to other FDHs, i.e., those of Pseudomonas, Mycobacterium, Moraxella, and Paracoccus, which were 91.3%, 90.8%, 84.2%, and 82.3%, respectively.