cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Risk Factors for Post-Transplant Lymphoproliferative Disorder in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients

Abstract 4465 Introduction: Solid organ transplant recipients are profoundly immune suppressed and are at risk for post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD). PTLD is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. With limited treatment options, earlier detection of disease and earlier initiation of therapy may be essential for optimizing therapeutic outcomes. Thus, identifying at risk groups is critical. Methods: We conducted an IRB-approved retrospective study of 1,496 solid organ transplant recipients treated at our institution to identify risk factors for the development of PTLD. We identified 104 cases of PTLD going back over the past 20 years, through 1991. A cross-sectional sample of solid organ transplants evaluated at our institution was used as controls (N = 1,392). Charts were reviewed for relevant demographic variables, reason for transplantation, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) serostatus pre-transplant, and Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA)-type. Information on outcomes, such as organ rejection over follow up and death was also recorded. In individuals with PTLD, date of diagnosis, tumor characteristics (i.e., EBV status), tumor pathology, and PTLD treatment was recorded. Survival analysis (Kaplan-Meier plots and Cox proportional hazards regression) was conducted on collected data, to determine risk factors for the development of PTLD. Results: In the cohort as a whole, 86/1,496 (5.8%) of individuals were EBV seronegative at baseline, and 20.9% (312/1496) did not have an available documented baseline EBV serology. EBV serostatus was the major risk factor for EBV-associated PTLD (N=74, or 71% of PTLD cases): EBV-seronegative individuals had a Hazard Ratio (HR) =7.70 [95% CI = 3.8 – 15.5, p Conclusions: While the relation of HLA-type and EBV-associated PTLD seen in the study are novel, we recommend future studies to test these observations. These results demonstrate that risk factors for EBV-associated PTLD may verify substantially with baseline EBV-serostatus. We recommend future studies consider stratifying analyses by baseline EBV-serostatus, as EBV-associated PTLD resulting from primary EBV-infection may represent a distinct pathology than EBV-associated PTLD arising in individuals who are known to be EBV-seropositive. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Stages of relaxation of patterns and the role of stochasticity in the final stage

The disorder function formalism (Gunaratne et al 1998 Phys. Rev. E 57 5146) is used to show that pattern relaxation in an experiment on a vibrating layer of brass beads occurs in three distinct stages. During stage I, all length scales associated with moments of the disorder grow at a single universal rate, given by L(t) ~ t0.5. In stage II, pattern evolution is non-universal and includes a range of growth indices. Relaxation in the final stage is characterized by a single, non-universal index. We use analysis of patterns from the Swift–Hohenberg equation to argue that mechanisms that underlie the observed pattern evolution are linear spatio-temporal dynamics (stage I), nonlinear saturation (stage II), and stochasticity (stage III).
Integer and Constraint Programming for Batch Annealing Process Planning

We describe an optimization application in the context of steel manufacturing, to design and schedule batches for annealing furnaces. Our solution approach uses a two-phase decomposition. The first phase groups together orders into batches using a mixed-integer linear programming model. The second phase assigns the batches to furnaces and schedules them over time, using constraint programming. Our solution has been developed for operational use in two plants of a steel manufacturer in North America.
Sequestration and the Engagement of Developing Economies in a Global Carbon Market

Abstract We develop a differential game within a general equilibrium framework of carbon sequestration with and without international trade. We characterize the game's equilibrium and demonstrate how a global carbon permit market can be structured to induce the participation of developing countries through the harnessing of their potential to sequester carbon. We show that a permit market with carbon sequestration is mutually welfare improving for developed and developing nations, and that international trade in finished goods and carbon permits lowers the stock of global pollution.
Clogging of Porous Column of Spheres by Sediment

When a sediment suspension moves downward at a constant laminar flow through a vertical porous column packed regularly with uniform spheres and having critical pores which permit passage of spheres smaller than 1/7-diam. of the matrix grain, sediment deposition takes place by a characteristic mechanism known as bridging. The critical parameter which controls the clogging of the matrix is the ratio of the pore size of the matrix to the sediment size. Sediment with diameters equal to or greater than half the critical pore diameter of the matrix will deposit and, in time, totally clog the matrix preventing further motion of sediment particles through the matrix. Sediment with diameters less than half the critical pore diameter will deposit only in the dead space of the matrix by the straining mechanism. Considering sediment deposition in a vertical porous column as a stochastic process of pure birth, the time and space variation of sediment accumulation in the column is described by a second-order partial differential equation which has a closed solution. The hydraulic resistance of a clogging matrix is represented by an equation similar to Kozeny-Carman equation for head loss in flow through porous media and was verified experimentally.
Theoretical Problems of Federalism

Federalism as a method of organizing collective decision-making in the public sector has existed for a large number of years and though the number of countries organized on that basis did remain fairly small after the first successful experiments, that number has been increasing rapidly since the end of the last World War. Despite this fact, it remains true that there is still no accepted theory of federalism, no accepted notion of the “essentials” of that form of political organization, not even an agreement on what constitutes its major positive and normative theoretical problems. The main reason for this state of affairs is, I submit, that federalism is usually thought to be a second —or worst—best solution to difficult political problems and is seldom seen as a method that would be adopted for Utopia. This is a fatal weakness for, as Professor Stigler has already pointed out, second-best considerations, like those about index-number problems and imperfections-in-the-capital-market problems, are terminal concepts, that is, concepts that bring a discussion to a more or less abrupt conclusion instead of being a spur to the creative imagination !
Preference for patient-provider ethnic concordance in Asian Americans.

Objectives: The present study examined factors associated with the preference for patient-provider ethnic concordance in Asian Americans.Design: With data drawn from the 2015 Asian American Quality of Life Survey (N = 2535), a logistic regression model of the preference for patient-provider ethnic concordance was tested with demographic (age, gender, ethnicity, marital status, education), health and access (chronic medical conditions, self-rated health, health insurance coverage), immigration-related (place of birth, length of stay in the US, English proficiency, acculturation), and adverse experience (perceived discrimination, communication problems in healthcare settings) variables.Results: Over half (52.4%) of those in the sample preferred to be treated by a healthcare provider from their own ethnic background. In a multivariate model, the odds for preferring ethnic concordance were 1.52-1.64 times higher among individuals in earlier stages of immigration, language acquisition, and acculturation. Individuals who had experienced communication problems in healthcare settings presented 3.74 times higher odds for preferring ethnic concordance than did counterparts without such experience.Conclusions: The results emphasized the value of paying attention to patient-provider concordance when treating Asian Americans either relatively new to the country or who have had previous problems communicating with health professionals. The findings also provide implications for improving workforce diversity in healthcare delivery and medical education.
An Affective Sensitive Tutoring System for Improving Student’s Engagement in CS

With the growing popularity of online teaching and tutoring, there are many attempts to enhance students’ learning experience during the lecture. This paper presents an animated tutoring system for improving student engagement using nonverbal cues, including students’ facial expressions. The system can (1) capture students’ facial expressions in the scenario; (2) identify various facial expressions, including anger, disgust, fear, sadness, happy, and surprise; and (3) provide feedback to students based on students’ facial expressions. To evaluate the tutoring system, we predicate the student engagement using support vector machine with the captured information, and measure students’ engagement using students’ academic performance, i.e., in-system exercise, quizzes, and exams. Our empirical study shows that the student performance using the level 2 animation is 10% and 20% high then levels 1 and 0, respectively.
The first order theory of G(n,c∕n)

Abstract A well-known result from the 1960 paper of Erdős and Renyi (1960) [2] tells us that the almost sure theory for first order language on the random graph sequence G ( n , c n − 1 ) is not complete. Our paper proposes and proves what the complete set of completions of the almost sure theory for G ( n , c n − 1 ) should be. The almost sure theory T consists of two sentence groups: the first states that all the components are trees or unicyclic components, and the second states that, given any k ∈ N and any finite tree t , there are at least k components isomorphic to t . We define a k -completion of T to be a first order property A , such that if T ∪ A holds for a graph (which indicates that the property described in sentence A is satisfied by the graph, and for every sentence B in the theory T , the property described by B is also satisfied by the graph), we can fully describe the first order sentences of quantifier depth ≤ k that hold for that graph. We show that a k -completion A specifies the numbers, up to “cutoff” k , of the (finitely many) unicyclic component types of given parameters (that only depend on k ) that the graph contains. A complete set of k -completions is then the finite collection of all possible k -completions.
Risk tolerance during conflict: Evidence from Aleppo, Syria:

When war breaks out, how important are risk preferences to explaining why some individuals stay in conflict zones while others take flight? We examine risk tolerance among rebel combatants and civi...
CD68/CD31 Immunohistochemistry Double Stain Demonstrates Increased Accuracy in Diagnosing Pathologic Antibody‐Mediated Rejection in Cardiac Transplant Patients

Pathologic antibody-mediated rejection (pAMR) occurs in 10% of cardiac transplant patients and is associated with increased mortality. The endomyocardial biopsy remains the primary diagnostic tool to detect and define pAMR. However, certain challenges arise for the pathologist. Accurate identification of >10% of intravascular macrophages along with endothelial swelling, which remains a critical component of diagnosing pAMR, is one such challenge. We used double labeling with an endothelial and histiocytic marker to improve diagnostic accuracy. Twenty-two cardiac transplant endomyocardial biopsies were screened using a CD68/CD31 immunohistochemical (IHC) double stain. To determine whether pAMR diagnosis would change using the double stain, intravascular macrophage staining was compared to using CD68 alone. Twenty-two cardiac pAMR cases from patients were included. Fifty-nine percent of cases previously called >10% intravascular macrophage positive by CD68 alone were called <10% positive using the CD68/CD31 double stain. Not using the double stain was associated with a significant overcall. In C4d-negative cases, using the CD68/CD31 double stain downgraded the diagnosis of pAMR2 to pAMR1 in 32% of cases. It was concluded that more than one third of patients were overdiagnosed with pAMR using CD68 by IHC alone. We demonstrate the value of using a CD68/CD31 double stain to increase accuracy.
Predictability of US West Coast Ocean Temperatures is not solely due to ENSO

The causes of the extreme and persistent warming in the Northeast Pacific from the winter of 2013/14 to that of 2014/15 are still not fully understood. While global warming may have contributed, natural influences may also have played a role. El Nino events are often implicated in anomalously warm conditions along the US West Coast (USWC). However, the tropical Pacific sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies were generally weak during 2014, calling into question their role in the USWC warming. In this study, we identify tropical Pacific “sensitivity patterns” that optimally force USWC warming at a later time. We find that such sensitivity patterns do not coincide with the mature SST anomaly patterns usually associated with ENSO, but instead include elements associated with ENSO SST precursors and SST anomalies in the central/western equatorial Pacific. El Nino events that produce large USWC warming, irrespective of their magnitude, do project on the sensitivity pattern and are characterized by a distinct evolution of the North Pacific atmospheric and oceanic fields. However, even weak tropical SST anomalies in the right location, and not necessarily associated with ENSO, can significantly influence USWC conditions and enhance their predictability.
Tools for Studying Angiotensin-(1-7)

There are many genetic and pharmacological tools available for the study of the pharmacological and pathophysiological implications of angiotensin-(-1-7). In this chapter, we address the pharmacological tools for interfering with the formation and actions of this heptapeptide.
Twelve – Older Workers

Publisher Summary Population aging is an issue for both developed and developing nations of the world. Developing nations are often experiencing fundamental changes in industrial structure, while at the same time trying to develop mechanisms to support elders in poverty, whereas developed countries are facing problems ranging from severe strain on national pension systems to labor shortages. The high rates of labor-force participation (LFP) in developed countries are due to an increase in employment among older women at the same time that the participation of older men has declined. The countries with the highest LFP rates among older workers—Japan, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States—have been modifying policies in an attempt to encourage employment of older workers and reduce pension costs. Modifying the structure of pension plans is likely to make early retirement more difficult to afford, whereas making retirement less attractive can only increase the need or the desire of older workers to remain active in the labor force.
Removal of ragweed pollen from environmental atmosphere of patients; the evaluation of an electrostatic precipitator combined with an air conditioner.

T HE etiology of ragweed pollinosis and ragweed asthma is known. One method of therapy-separation of the patient from the pollen-will result in complete relief of symptoms. At least tens of thousands, however, still suffer when Ambrosia pollinates. Not all these victims can voyage to midocean or escape to other areas free of the offending agent. Another approach has been the development of devices designed to clear pollen from the air of the patient’s room. Beginning with van Leeuwen in 1924,l investigators+lo have described several types of equipment able to perform with varying success. Some of these authors have stressed technical difficulties and have envisioned more satisfactory clinical results when better machines become available. This article considers an electrostatic precipitatort which has been combined with an air conditioner.3 This combination represents a logical answer to complaints that air cleaners without air conditioning are unbearable in hot weather.
Identifying Implementation Strategies That Address Barriers and Facilitate Implementation of Digital Interventions in HIV Primary Care Settings: Results from the Pilot Implementation of Positive Health Check

We used the 1-month pilot implementation of Positive Health Check, a brief web-based video counseling intervention that supports patients with HIV attending HIV primary care clinics, to exemplify how studying implementation strategies earlier in the evidence-generation process can improve implementation outcomes in later pragmatic trials. We identified how implementation strategies were operationalized and the barriers and facilitators these strategies addressed using multiple data sources, including adapted implementation procedures and weekly structured interviews conducted with 9 key stakeholders in 4 HIV primary care clinics. Nineteen of 73 discrete implementation strategies for clinical innovations were used in the pilot implementation of Positive Health Check. Clinic staff reported 17 barriers and facilitators related to the clinic environment, patient population, intervention characteristics, and training and technical assistance. Identifying the link between strategies, barriers, and facilitators helped plan for a subsequent larger multisite pragmatic trial.
Shock-tube measurements of coupled vibration–dissociation time-histories and rate parameters in oxygen and argon mixtures from 5000 K to 10 000 K

Shock-tube experiments were conducted behind reflected shocks using ultraviolet (UV) laser absorption to measure coupled vibration–dissociation (CVDV) time-histories and rate parameters in dilute mixtures of oxygen (O2) and argon (Ar). Experiments probed 2% and 5% O2 in Ar mixtures for initial post-reflected-shock conditions from 5000 K to 10 000 K and 0.04 atm to 0.45 atm. A tunable, pulsed UV laser absorption diagnostic measured absorbance time-histories from the fourth, fifth, and sixth vibrational levels of the electronic ground state of O2, and experiments were repeated—with closely matched temperature and pressure conditions—to probe absorbance time-histories corresponding to each vibrational level. The absorbance ratio from two vibrational levels, interpreted via an experimentally validated spectroscopic model, determined vibrational temperature time-histories. In contrast, the absorbance involving a single vibrational level determined vibrational-state-specific number density time-histories. These temperature and state-specific number density time-histories agree reasonably well with state-to-state modeling at low temperatures but deviate significantly at high temperatures. Further analysis of the vibrational temperature and number density time-histories isolated coupling parameters from the Marrone and Treanor CVDV model, including vibrational relaxation time (τ), average vibrational energy loss (e), vibrational coupling factor (Z), and dissociation rate constant (kd). The results for τ and kd are consistent with previous results, exhibit low scatter, and—in the case of vibrational relaxation time—extend measurements to higher temperatures than previous experiments. The results for e and Z overlap some common models, exhibit relatively low scatter, and provide novel experimental data.
Stochastic resonance in MoS2 photodetector.

In this article, we adopt a radical approach for next generation ultra-low-power sensor design by embracing the evolutionary success of animals with extraordinary sensory information processing capabilities that allow them to survive in extreme and resource constrained environments. Stochastic resonance (SR) is one of those astounding phenomena, where noise, which is considered detrimental for electronic circuits and communication systems, plays a constructive role in the detection of weak signals. Here, we show SR in a photodetector based on monolayer MoS2 for detecting ultra-low-intensity subthreshold optical signals from a distant light emitting diode (LED). We demonstrate that weak periodic LED signals, which are otherwise undetectable, can be detected by a MoS2 photodetector in the presence of a finite and optimum amount of white Gaussian noise at a frugal energy expenditure of few tens of nano-Joules. The concept of SR is generic in nature and can be extended beyond photodetector to any other sensors. Here, the authors take advantage of stochastic resonance in a photodetector based on monolayer MoS2 for measuring otherwise undetectable, ultra-low-intensity, subthreshold optical signals from a distant light emitting diode in the presence of a finite and optimum amount of white Gaussian noise.
A searchable/filterable database of elemental, doubly charged, and polyatomic ions that can cause spectral overlaps in inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry

Abstract Spectral overlaps due to elemental, doubly charged, and polyatomic ions can degrade ICP-MS detection limits and measurement accuracy if they exist at the same nominal m/z as the analyte ion being measured. Here we describe a database containing over 2000 ions we have experimentally identified and/or that have been experimentally identified or proposed to exist in the literature (with citations). The database is searchable/filterable by m/z, analyte element, element contained in the potential spectral overlap ion, and ion type (elemental, doubly charged elemental, oxide, hydroxide, hydride, dioxide, trioxide, doubly charged polyatomic, etc.). Included are more than 50 ions that to our knowledge have not been identified previously in the literature.
A Mathematical Model of Nitric Oxide Mechanotransduction in Brain

Nitric Oxide (NO) is a diffusible molecule that is involved in many key signaling processes within the brain, notably the regulation of cerebral blood flow and pressure. NO is produced within neurons, endothelial cells, and red blood cells, but is only activated within the endothelial cells by the shear stress at the blood-endothelium interface. Because of the NO significance to brain functionality, various mathematical models of NO behavior have been proposed in literature. However, most of these models do not thoroughly incorporate the NO production in the endothelium through mechanotransduction. In a recent paper, we proposed a mathematical model to describe the steady-state behavior of NO in the brain that accounts for the shear-induced endothelial NO production and the Poiseuille-like flow of blood. In this paper we expand upon this model by introducing a deformable vascular wall and pulsatile blood flow. The arterial wall is modeled as a Maxwell linear viscoelastic material. Numerical simulations will show the mechanical effects on the spatio-temporal distribution of NO.
Comparison and Analysis between the NAV6 Embolic Protection Filter and SpiderFX EPD Filter in Superficial Femoral Artery Lesions.

Objective. To compare the safety and efficacy between the SpiderFX EPD and Emboshield NAV6 filter in the collection of embolic debris created from lower limb atherectomy procedures in patients with PAD. Materials and Methods. Between January 2014 and October 2015, 507 patients with symptomatic peripheral artery disease were treated with directional atherectomy (SilverHawk), rotational atherectomy (JetStream), or laser atherectomy (Turbo Elite) based on operator discretion. Emboshield NAV6 (n = 161) and SpiderFX (n = 346) embolic protection devices were used with each of the 3 atherectomy devices. The primary study endpoint was 30-day freedom from major adverse events (MAEs). An MAE was defined as death, MI, TVR, thrombosis, dissection, distal embolization, perforation at the level of the filter, and unplanned amputation. A descriptive comparison of the MAE rates between Emboshield NAV6 and SpiderFX embolic protection devices was conducted. Results. The freedom from major adverse event (MAE) rate was 92.0% (CI: 86.7%, 95.7%) in patients who received an Emboshield NAV6 filter compared to 91.6% (CI: 88.2%, 94.3%) in patients who received the SpiderFX filter ( ). The lower limit of 86.7% freedom from major adverse event rate in the Emboshield NAV6 group was above the performance goal of 83% ( ). Conclusions. There were no significant clinical outcome differences between Emboshield NAV6 and SpiderFX EPD filters in the treatment of lower extremities. This evaluation indicates the safety and efficacy to use either filter device to treat PAD patients with lower extremity lesions.
The moiré the merrier.

Using atomic-resolution electron microscopy to observe ion-exchange processes in atomically thin layered and restacked clays, substantially larger ion diffusion constants and moire effects on ion dynamics are seen.
The Legal-Economic Nexus

[I]t is, however, decisive for a realistic understanding of the phenomen [sic] of the state to recognize the importance of that group of persons in whom it assumes social form, and of those factors which gain domination over it. This explains the state’s real power and the way in which it is used and developed.1
Sampled-data Setting

This chapter considers distributed multi-agent coordination in a sampled-data setting. We first study a distributed sampled-data coordinated tracking algorithm where a group of followers with single-integrator dynamics interacting with their neighbors at discrete-time instants intercepts a dynamic leader who is a neighbor of only a subset of the followers. We propose a proportional-derivative-like discrete-time algorithm and study the condition on the interaction graph, the sampling period, and the control gain to ensure stability under directed fixed interaction and give the quantitative bound of the tracking errors. We then study convergence of two distributed sampled-data coordination algorithms with respectively, absolute damping and relative damping for double-integrator dynamics under undirected/directed fixed interaction. We show necessary and sufficient conditions on the interaction graph, the sampling period, and the control gain such that coordination is achieved using these two algorithms by using matrix theory, bilinear transformation, and Cauchy theorem. We finally study convergence of the two distributed sampled-data coordination algorithms with respectively, absolute damping and relative damping for double-integrator dynamics under directed switching interaction. We derive sufficient conditions on the interaction graph, the sampling period, and the control gain to guarantee coordination by using the property of infinity products of row-stochastic matrices. Simulation results are presented to show the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Design and analysis of a smart market for industrial procurement

E ach year the Manufacturing and Service Operations Management (MSOM) Society of INFORMS conducts a student paper competition. In Volume 2, Issue 2 of MS Yehuda Bassok, University of Southern California; and Michael Pinedo, New York University. The first-prize winner received $400, while second prize received $200. Prizes were awarded at the INFORMS meeting in San Antonio, Texas in November 2000. All finalists received a $50.00 discount coupon redeemable at an ‘‘e-tailer.’’ The winners and their faculty mentors were:
Expression of Drosophila Rrp1 protein in Escherichia coli. Enzymatic and physical characterization of the intact protein and a carboxyl-terminally deleted exonuclease-deficient mutant.

Abstract Drosophila Rrp1 protein purified from embryos has four tightly associated enzymatic activities: DNA strand transfer, single-strand DNA renaturation, 3'-exonuclease, and apurinic endonuclease. Copurifying with these activities is a single polypeptide that has an apparent M(r) of 105,000 when estimated by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. To determine if this polypeptide is sufficient for these activities, it has been overexpressed in Escherichia coli. In crude extracts of E. coli cells, an ATP-independent Mg(2+)-dependent strand transfer activity is observed upon activation of the promoter that drives expression of Rrp1. Rrp1 protein purified from induced E. coli cells has electrophoretic, chromatographic, and enzymatic properties similar to those of Drosophila Rrp1 protein. The carboxyl-terminal region of Rrp1 (amino acids 428-679) is homologous to E. coli exonuclease III. Rrp1 deleted for this region cannot carry out DNA strand transfer, but can renature complementary single-strand DNA. The strand transfer activity of this truncated protein can be restored if DNA 3'-exonuclease is provided in trans by pretreating the double-strand DNA substrate with E. coli exonuclease III. This demonstrates a likely role of the exonuclease in the in vitro DNA strand transfer reaction carried out by Rrp1 protein. Such a role is also suggested by an analysis of the polarity of the strand transfer reaction.
The chemical thermodynamics of nuclear materials. IX. The high temperature heat capacity of plutonium-3.2 at. % gallium alloy

Abstract The heat capactity of delta-stabilized plutonium (Pu-3.2 at.% Ga) has been determined from 330 to 700 K using an adiabatic calorimeter. The heat capacity of this alloy may be expressed by the following: C p ( Pu + 3.2 at .% Ga )/( J K −1 mol −1 ) = 39.249−0.0264 ( T / K ) + 3.595 × 10 −5 ( T / K ) 2 −2.506 × 10 5 ( K / T ) 2 . It was found that a large portion of the total heat capacity in this temperature range is due to some combination of the electronic heat capacity and the anharmonic heat capacity. By including certain data from the literature, the thermal functions for this plutonium-gallium alloy were calculated in the temperature range 298 to 700 K.
Increased risk of colorectal polyps in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease undergoing liver transplant evaluation

Background: Screening colonoscopy is a standard part of the liver transplant (LT) evaluation process. We aimed to evaluate the yield of screening colonoscopy and determine whether non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) was associated with an increased risk of colorectal neoplasia. Methods: We retrospectively assessed all patients who completed LT evaluation at our center between 1/2008-12/2012. Patients Results: A total of 1,102 patients were evaluated, 591 met inclusion criteria and were analyzed. The mean age was 60 years, 67% were male, 12% had NAFLD and 88% had other forms of chronic liver disease. Overall, 42% of patients had a polyp found on colonoscopy: 23% with adenomas, 14% with hyperplastic polyps and with 1% inflammatory polyps. In the final multivariable model controlling for age, NAFLD [odds ratio (OR) 2.41, P=0.001] and a history of significant alcohol use (OR 1.69, P=0.004) were predictive of finding a polyp on colonoscopy. In addition, NAFLD (OR 1.95, P=0.02), significant alcohol use (OR 1.70, P=0.01) and CTP class C (OR 0.57, P=0.02) were associated with adenoma, controlling for age. Conclusions: Screening colonoscopy in patients awaiting LT yields a high rate of polyp (43%) and adenoma (22%) detection, perhaps preventing the accelerated progression to carcinoma that can occur in immunosuppressed post-LT patients. Patients with NAFLD may be at a ~2 fold higher risk of adenomas and should be carefully evaluated prior to LT.
Continuous-Time Models of Currency Volatility

How does currency return volatility evolve over time and what are the properties of volatility dynamics? What forms of non-linearities are admitted in the drift and diffusion functions? The purpose of this study is to estimate a large class of volatility processes and explore these issues using weekly observations on U.S. dollar-based Japanese yen and British pound options data. The approach is based on maximum-likelihood estimation that relies on closed-form density approximations (Ait-Sahalia, 1999; Ait-Sahalia, 2002). Based on volatility implied by currency options, the affine square root specification for the variance of variance function commonly adapted in the literature is misspecified. The constant elasticity of variance (CEV) specification provides a reasonable characterization of the variance of variance function. Unlike previous findings for equity volatility, extending the diffusion function beyond the CEV specification does not improve the fit of the model, regardless of the assumed form of the drift function.
Nanoprobe implantation into mammalian cells by cationic transfection

Submicron-sized Au particles and Au/SiO2 nanocomposites (superparticles) as large as 670 nm have been introduced into tsA201 cells with minimal cell trauma by cationic transfection systems. Successful implantations can be characterized by the expression of co-transfected DNA.
Fertility and testicular fatty acid composition in the chicken as influenced by vitamin E and ethoxyquin.

The fatty acid composition of testicular lipids has been determined and related to fertility data from groups of dubbed White Leghorn cockerels after a 50-week feeding period on rations containing 10% safflower oil or coconut oil. Supplements of ethoxyquin ord-α-tocopherol acetate maintained fertility in birds raised on rations containing safflower oils. This response was associated with higher proportions of 22∶4 ω6 and lower proportions of 18∶2 ω6 in testicular lipids. Testes size was quite variable in the unsupplemented group with changes in fatty acid composition being more pronounced in the smaller testes. A multiple regression was calculated using data from those birds on the safflower oil ration. With a correlation ratio of 0.90 fertility was expressed as a function of testes size, semen concentration and the proportions of 18∶2 ω6, 20∶4 ω6 and 22∶4 ω6 in testicular lipids. Despite the low intake of linoleate significant levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids were maintained in testicular lipids of birds fed the coconut oil rations. The major changes in fatty acid composition of testicular lipids produced by this variable was a decrease in the proportion of 18∶2 ω6 and an increase in the proportion of 18∶1.
Behavioral and biofeedback therapy for a functionally impaired musician: A case report

A performing musician with severe occupational palsy accompanied by obsessions and compulsions was treated by an in vivo temperature biofeedback exercise. The treatment appeared highly successful in removing both the palsy and the obsessions, with improvement seen after six 1/2-day sessions and persisting for 4 years after the termination of treatment. This is the second reported case of functional palsy in a performing musician successfully treated by applying feedback apparatus directly to the affected part of the body. Occupational palsy, traditionally thought to be highly resistant to treatment, seems surprisingly amendable to in vivo biofeedback.
Effects of Cadmium Stress on the Plankton Communities of Experimental Ponds

Abstract Experimental ponds were used to determine the impact of a single low-level addition of cadmium on naturally occuring plankton communities. Cadmium (as CdCl2) was added to two ponds to create nominal concentrations of 5 μgCd/1 and two ponds served as non-addition controls. Plankton responses were then monitored for 31 days. Cadmium concentrations declined rapidly in treated ponds to < 1 μg/1 by day 10. Biomass and productivity of the phytoplankton community were slightly lower in treated ponds immediately following cadmium addition, but by day 10 had returned to control pond levels. The zooplankton community exhibited a wide range of responses. Simocephalus serrulatus populations were virtually eliminated in treated ponds initially, but later recovered. In situ and laboratory bioassays verified this decreasing effect of cadmium with time. Populations of another cladoceran, Diaphanosoma brachyurum, were enhanced in the cadmium ponds; it appeared earlier and was more abundant on each date sampled. C...
Rapid solid-phase extraction method to quantify [11C]-verapamil, and its [11C]-metabolites, in human and macaque plasma☆

Abstract Introduction P-glycoprotein (P-gp), an efflux transporter, is a significant barrier to drug entry into the brain and the fetus. The positron emission tomography (PET) ligand, [ 11 C]-verapamil, has been used to measure in vivo P-gp activity at various tissue–blood barriers of humans and animals. Since verapamil is extensively metabolized in vivo , it is important to quantify the extent of verapamil metabolism in order to interpret such P-gp activity. Therefore, we developed a rapid solid-phase extraction (SPE) method to separate, and then quantify, verapamil and its radiolabeled metabolites in plasma. Methods Using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), we established that the major identifiable circulating radioactive metabolite of [ 11 C]-verapamil in plasma of humans and the nonhuman primate, Macaca nemestrina , was [ 11 C]-D-617/717. Using sequential and differential pH elution on C 8 SPE cartridges, we developed a rapid method to separate [ 11 C]-verapamil and [ 11 C]-D-617/717. Recovery was measured by spiking the samples with the corresponding nonradioactive compounds and assaying these compounds by HPLC. Results Verapamil and D-617/717 recovery with the SPE method was >85%. When the method was applied to PET studies in humans and nonhuman primates, significant plasma concentration of D-617/717 and unknown polar metabolite(s) were observed. The SPE and the HPLC methods were not significantly different in the quantification of verapamil and D-617/717. Conclusions The SPE method simultaneously processes multiple samples in less than 5 min. Given the short half-life of [ 11 C], this method provides a valuable tool to rapidly determine the concentration of [ 11 C]-verapamil and its [ 11 C]-metabolites in human and nonhuman primate plasma.
Hydrogenolysis of dibenzyl ether using zinc chloride-metal cocatalyst systems

Abstract The hydrogenolysis of dibenzyl ether was studied using zinc chloride together with either nickel, zinc, or magnesium. Reactions were carried out in cyclohexane solution at 225 °C under hydrogen pressure. The presence of the metallic component, and in particular Raney nickel, was found to enhance the yields of toluene and reduce the formation of insoluble resin, observed when zinc chloride was used alone. It is proposed that the metal activates molecular H2 and promotes its reaction with benzylic carbonium ions formed through the action of zinc chloride on dibenzyl ether.
On the attachment detachment model of antibodies to viruses

Abstract Suppose there are N viruses living in a nutrient medium and at time t = 0, x 0 antibodies are released among them. The antibodies proceed to attach themselves randomly to the surface of a virus. The probability distribution P ( n 0 ,…, n r ; t ) of concentration of antibodies on the viruses was studied by Gani and the author. here a new and simple derivation of this distribution is given.
Evidence of toxic saliva in some colubrid snakes of the United States

The literature describing toxicologic and morphologic evidences of toxic saliva in colubrid snakes of the United States has been reviewed. Comparisons to venomous colubrids from other areas have been made. Specifically, ten genera of colubrids in the United States are discussed—Coniophanes, Hypsiglena, Leptodeira, Oxybelis, Trimorphodon, Diadophis, Heterodon, Rhadinaea, Tantilla, and Thamnophis. Observations on the first five genera show evidence of toxic saliva while in the last five genera the evidence is questioned. The main criterion for inclusion is evidence of toxic reactions in prey animals or humans. The presence of enlarged rear maxillary teeth, either aglyphous or opisthoglyphous, and a Duvernoy's gland are used as supporting evidence. Judging from the rather meager observations available, these colubrids are not as toxic as some tropical colubrids.
The fair process effect and procedural criteria in the resolution of disputes between intimate same-sex friends

This series of studies extended procedural justice research to the informal domain of dispute resolution in intimate same-sex friendship. The first study identified the types of disputes that occur between friends and the concerns that friends have when choosing dispute resolution procedures. Seven dispute types and 11 procedural criteria were found relevant to dispute resolution in friendship. Study 2 assessed the importance of procedural criteria for resolving several dispute scenarios. As expected, ratings of criterion importance were affected by subject and disputant sex. Females rated four criteria as more important than did males, and one criterion was rated as more important in disputes involving a male and a female than in disputes involving two females. The importance of procedural criteria was also influenced by the type of dispute, but this effect was qualified by an interaction with the dispute version. It was suggested that the importance of procedural criteria is generally defined by the context of friendship and specifically defined by the dispute topic. In Study 3, the relations among subject sex, traditional fairness variables, and criterion-based measures of process control were examined. Consistent with studies in other domains, process control predicted procedural justice, and decision control predicted distributive justive. Moreover, the hypothesized fair process effect emerged as a function of speed, a criterion-based measure of process control.
Privatizing social security: The troubling trade‐offs

(1999). Privatizing social security: The troubling trade‐offs. The Washington Quarterly: Vol. 22, No. 1, pp. 205-215.
An approach to the optimal design of networks

Abstract The design problem considered in this paper is the optimal distribution of pressure drop over a network in which flow-rates are specified, but pipe diameters may vary. By using elements of the duality theory of nonlinear programming, the problem is cast in a form which is computationally attractive. The approach presented is of general applicability of networks in which the equations of flow are nonlinear.
Applying channel complementarity theory to new and traditional economic media usage patterns of U.S. investors

The role communication processes within the realm of economic and financial activity is an important, yet relatively unexplored phenomenon. We define economic communication as the purposeful exchange of financial and economic ideas and messages by citizens, media, lawmakers and economic professionals intended to shape national, local, or personal finances. We use channel complementarity theory to examine the choices and combinations of communication outlets utilized by individuals seeking economic information, especially the differences between online and offline economic communication. Results indicate a high degree of complementarity across several modes of economic communication, including traditional and new media, interpersonal discussion, and professional communication.
Serotonin 5-HT(2A) Receptor Function as a Contributing Factor to Both Neuropsychiatric and Cardiovascular Diseases.

There are high levels of comorbidity between neuropsychiatric and cardiovascular disorders. A key molecule central to both cognitive and cardiovascular function is the molecule serotonin. In the brain, serotonin modulates neuronal activity and is actively involved in mediating many cognitive functions and behaviors. In the periphery, serotonin is involved in vasoconstriction, inflammation, and cell growth, among other processes. It is hypothesized that one component of the serotonin system, the 5-HT2A receptor, is a common and contributing factor underlying aspects of the comorbidity between neuropsychiatric and cardiovascular disorders. Within the brain this receptor participates in processes such as cognition and working memory, been implicated in effective disorders such as schizophrenia, and mediate the primary effects of hallucinogenic drugs. In the periphery, 5-HT2A receptors have been linked to vasoconstriction and hypertension, and to inflammatory processes that can lead to atherosclerosis.
1999 ASGE endoscopic ultrasound survey

Abstract Background: Gastrointestinal endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) has become an important imaging modality for the diagnosis and staging of gastrointestinal disorders. This study assessed current EUS practice, training, coding, and reimbursement in the United States. Methods: A direct mail survey was sent to members of the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Results: There were 115 American respondents. The median age was 39 years, 57% were in academic practice, and 84% performed endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. The median number of EUS procedures performed was 200. In the preceding year, the median number of upper EUS was 60, lower EUS 10, and EUS/fine-needle aspiration 3. The most common indication was evaluation of esophageal or gastric lesions. Forty-six (40%) trained an average of 0.4 advanced fellows in EUS during the prior year. Of endosonographers involved in training, 53% thought formal training was necessary, for a median of 6 months and 100 procedures; 82% did not know whether they were reimbursed for EUS. There was great variation in the use of current procedural terminology (CPT) codes for lower EUS and upper EUS/fine-needle aspiration. Conclusions: EUS in the United States in 1999 is performed mostly by young, academic, interventional endoscopists. Diagnostic upper EUS is most commonly performed. Few new endosonographers are being trained.There is great variability in CPT coding of lower EUS and EUS/fine-needle aspiration procedures. (Gastrointest Endosc 2000;52:745-50.)
Evidence for benthic primary production support of an apex predator–dominated coral reef food web

Five hundred and ninety-nine primary producers and consumers in the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM) (22°N–30°N, 160°W–180°W) were sampled for carbon and nitrogen stable isotope composition to elucidate trophic relationships in a relatively unimpacted, apex predator–dominated coral reef ecosystem. A one-isotope (δ13C), two-source (phytoplankton and benthic primary production) mixing model provided evidence for an average minimum benthic primary production contribution of 65 % to consumer production. Primary producer δ15N values ranged from −1.6 to 8.0 ‰ with an average (2.1 ‰) consistent with a prevalence of N2 fixation. Consumer group δ15N means ranged from 6.6 ‰ (herbivore) to 12.1 ‰ (Galeocerdo cuvier), and differences between consumer group δ15N values suggest an average trophic enrichment factor of 1.8 ‰ Δ15N. Based on relative δ15N values, the larger G. cuvier may feed at a trophic position above other apex predators. The results provide baseline data for investigating the trophic ecology of healthy coral reef ecosystems.
Agronomic studies on gumweed: Seed germination, planting density, planting dates, and biomass and resin production

Abstract This paper reports the results of several investigations into the agronomy of Grindelia camporum (Asteraceae), or gumweed, a potential resin-producing crop for the southwestern United States and other arid regions of the world. Germination was tested at temperatures between 5 and 30°C in the light and dark. Seeds were found to have a light requirement; optimum germination temperatures were 10–20°C. Seeds could be induced to germinate at higher temperatures in the dark by soaking in water at 0°C for 8 days. Planting densities from 27 000 to 108 000 plants/ha were compared. Optimum density appears to be ca. 80 000 plants/ha. Replicated field plots, established at monthly intervals from October to March, yielded two harvests, one in mid-summer and a second one in the autumn. Best results were obtained from the October plantings,which yielded 12.5 ton ha −1 yr −1 of biomass and 1180 kg ha −1 yr −1 of crude resin with an average irrigation water requirement of 5.3 cm/ton of biomass produced.