cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Contrasting support for alternative models of genomic variation based on microhabitat preference: species‐specific effects of climate change in alpine sedges

Deterministic processes may uniquely affect codistributed species' phylogeographic patterns such that discordant genetic variation among taxa is predicted. Yet, explicitly testing expectations of genomic discordance in a statistical framework remains challenging. Here, we construct spatially and temporally dynamic models to investigate the hypothesized effect of microhabitat preferences on the permeability of glaciated regions to gene flow in two closely related montane species. Utilizing environmental niche models from the Last Glacial Maximum and the present to inform demographic models of changes in habitat suitability over time, we evaluate the relative probabilities of two alternative models using approximate Bayesian computation (ABC) in which glaciated regions are either (i) permeable or (ii) a barrier to gene flow. Results based on the fit of the empirical data to data sets simulated using a spatially explicit coalescent under alternative models indicate that genomic data are consistent with predictions about the hypothesized role of microhabitat in generating discordant patterns of genetic variation among the taxa. Specifically, a model in which glaciated areas acted as a barrier was much more probable based on patterns of genomic variation in Carex nova, a wet-adapted species. However, in the dry-adapted Carex chalciolepis, the permeable model was more probable, although the difference in the support of the models was small. This work highlights how statistical inferences can be used to distinguish deterministic processes that are expected to result in discordant genomic patterns among species, including species-specific responses to climate change.
Selective Covalent Targeting of Anti-Apoptotic BFL-1 by Cysteine-Reactive Stapled Peptide Inhibitors

Anti-apoptotic BCL-2 family proteins block cell death by trapping the critical α-helical BH3 domains of pro-apoptotic members in a surface groove. Cancer cells hijack this survival mechanism by overexpressing a spectrum of anti-apoptotic members, mounting formidable apoptotic blockades that resist chemotherapeutic treatment. Drugging the BH3-binding pockets of anti-apoptotic proteins has become a highest-priority goal, fueled by the clinical success of ABT-199, a selective BCL-2 inhibitor, in reactivating apoptosis in BCL-2-dependent cancers. BFL-1 is a BCL-2 homolog implicated in melanoma, lymphoma, and other cancers, and remains undrugged. A natural juxtaposition of two unique cysteines at the binding interface of the NOXA BH3 helix and BFL-1 pocket informed the development of stapled BH3 peptides bearing acrylamide warheads to irreversibly inhibit BFL-1 by covalent targeting. Given the frequent proximity of native cysteines to regulatory binding surfaces, covalent stapled peptide inhibitors provide a new therapeutic strategy for targeting pathologic protein interactions.
Image-guided feedback for ophthalmic microsurgery using multimodal intraoperative swept-source spectrally encoded scanning laser ophthalmoscopy and optical coherence tomography

Surgical interventions for ocular diseases involve manipulations of semi-transparent structures in the eye, but limited visualization of these tissue layers remains a critical barrier to developing novel surgical techniques and improving clinical outcomes. We addressed limitations in image-guided ophthalmic microsurgery by using microscope-integrated multimodal intraoperative swept-source spectrally encoded scanning laser ophthalmoscopy and optical coherence tomography (iSS-SESLO-OCT). We previously demonstrated in vivo human ophthalmic imaging using SS-SESLO-OCT, which enabled simultaneous acquisition of en face SESLO images with every OCT cross-section. Here, we integrated our new 400 kHz iSS-SESLO-OCT, which used a buffered Axsun 1060 nm swept-source, with a surgical microscope and TrueVision stereoscopic viewing system to provide image-based feedback. In vivo human imaging performance was demonstrated on a healthy volunteer, and simulated surgical maneuvers were performed in ex vivo porcine eyes. Denselysampled static volumes and volumes subsampled at 10 volumes-per-second were used to visualize tissue deformations and surgical dynamics during corneal sweeps, compressions, and dissections, and retinal sweeps, compressions, and elevations. En face SESLO images enabled orientation and co-registration with the widefield surgical microscope view while OCT imaging enabled depth-resolved visualization of surgical instrument positions relative to anatomic structures-of-interest. TrueVision heads-up display allowed for side-by-side viewing of the surgical field with SESLO and OCT previews for real-time feedback, and we demonstrated novel integrated segmentation overlays for augmented-reality surgical guidance. Integration of these complementary imaging modalities may benefit surgical outcomes by enabling real-time intraoperative visualization of surgical plans, instrument positions, tissue deformations, and image-based surrogate biomarkers correlated with completion of surgical goals.
Localization of Stereo-Specific Phosphatidylserine Binding Sites within the Factor V C2 Domain.

Binding of activated factor V (Fva) to phosphatidylserine (PS) is required for formation of the prothrombinase complex on the surface of activated platelets. The interaction between Fva and PS has been shown to be stereo-specific with bovine Fva favoring L -PS over D -PS. Our previous low resolution alanine scan data localized PS binding sites to the FV-C2 domain and identified two tryptophan residues, W2063 and W2064, which are required for high affinity binding. Two putative PS binding sites were also predicted based on modeling studies using the FV-C2 structure. In this study, the stereo-specific interaction of Fva with PS was evaluated with plasma derived human Fva (pd-HFVa), recombinant human Fva (rHFVa), rHFVa-C2 domain and rHFVa mutants. Quantitative fluorescence binding assays and functional prothrombinase assays were conducted using phospholipid vesicles containing 20 mol% dioleoyl phosphatidyl- L -serine ( L -PS) or dioleoyl phosphatidyl- D -serine ( D -PS). Direct binding experiments demonstrated that pd-HFVa and rHFVa bound to membranes containing L -PS with 6 to 9 fold higher affinity than to membranes containing D -PS. Analysis of prothrombinase activity on these membranes demonstrated the difference in V max / K 1/2Va between L -PS and D -PS was 15-fold and 23-fold higher for pd-HFVa and rHFVa, respectively. These data confirm that HFVa, similar to bovine FVa, prefers L -PS over D -PS. The rHFV-C2 domain bound to L -PS membranes with an affinity of 5.3 ± 1.7 nM. In contrast, the binding of C2 domain to D -PS membranes was undetectable. This indicates that the rHFV-C2 domain contains a stereo-specific binding site for PS. We next analyzed the membrane binding of four rHFVa mutants containing alanine substitutions within the FV-C2 domain. rHFVa mutants W2063A and W2064A both bound to membranes containing 20% L -PS with high affinity similar to native rHFVa with K d ’s of 0.97 ± 0.30 nM and 0.38 ± 0.18 nM, respectively. In contrast no detectable binding of W2063A or W2064A could be detected on membranes containing 20% D -PS. Mutants were also prepared containing alanine substitutions for amino acid side chains predicted to participate in two stereospecific PS binding sites based on modeling studies using the rHFV-C2 structure. The binding of (K2060, Q2085, S2115)A and (Q2078, N2082, R2187)A to L -PS and D -PS were characterized as described above. These mutants bound to both L -PS and D -PS membranes with relatively high affinity. The K d values for binding of (K2060, Q2085, S2115)A and (Q2078, N2082, R2187)A to 20% D -PS membranes were 1.19 ± 0.31 nM and 1.11 ± 0.32 nM, respectively. These results suggest that these two sites play little or no role in the binding of FVa to PS membranes. In conclusion, the HFV-C2 domain contains stereo-specific binding sites for L -PS which require the indole side chains of W2063 and W2064. These findings provide new insights into the regulation of prothrombinase activity by PS.
The Expected Hitting Time Approach to Optimal Price Adjustment Problems

We offer a novel approach for solving optimal price adjustment problems, when the underlying process is a Geometric Brownian Motion (GBM) process. Our approach relies on characterizing the cumulative cost of deviation and the cost of adjusting price until the hitting time of the lower or upper barriers. Using this approach, we are able to derive an analytical expression for the cost function, that does not require solving a PDE or running Monte-Carlo simulations. We apply our framework to the real world problem of adjusting domestic energy prices in countries that adopt administratively-set energy price rules. Our toolbox code in Matlab can be easily modified to be used to calculate optimal policies in a wide range of topics in finance, operations management, economics, and natural resource management.
Endovascular management of intracranial dural arteriovenous fistulas

Dural arteriovenous fistulas are a heterogeneous group of lesions that comprise 10-15% of intracranial vascular malformations. The treatment strategy is devised after careful consideration of the arterial supply, venous drainage, clinical presentation, and risk of progression, hemorrhage, or neurologic decline. With recent advancements in endovascular technology, the majority of dural arteriovenous fistulas can be treated with either transarterial or transvenous embolization. Those that cannot be fully treated by endovascular means are approached with either adjuvant surgery or radiotherapy.
Completing D. Patinkin's Partially Correct, Incomplete Assessment of J M Keynes's Role as the Creator in the Development of the IS-LM Model

Patinkin came very, very close in 1987 to discovering for himself that Keynes,not Hicks, was the creator and developer of IS-LM. Unfortunately, he stopped his analysis right at the point where he could have established Keynes’s priority over Hicks. On pp.180-181 in chapter 14 of the GT,Keynes dealt with the classical and neoclassical theory of the rate of interest. Keynes provided the reader with an explanation as to why the interest rate is not explained by the forces of thrift and productivity alone. He stated that in order to have a determinant theory of the rate of interest, the state of liquidity preference, the amount of money, and their relationships to the rate of interest were required. Keynes provided that answer in chapter 15 on pp. 199-202.He also showed how his analysis could explain the special classical case of full employment in section IV of that chapter. Patinkin is correct that Keynes did not provide a geometrical exposition of IS and LM in the GT. What Keynes provided was a mathematical and verbal exposition of IS and LM in the GT.Keynes had no objections to IS LM, in general ,outside of the fact that IS LM needed (1) a microfoundation in the theory of the firm and (2) needed to be able to deal with expectations. Keynes meet both of these shortcomings in chapters 20 and 21 of the GT.
Protein Resistant Polymeric Biomaterials

Toward improving implantable medical devices as well as diagnostic performance, the development of polymeric biomaterials having resistance to proteins remains a priority. Herein, we highlight key strategies reported in the recent literature that have relied upon improvement of surface hydrophilicity via direct surface modification methods or with bulk modification using surface modifying additives (SMAs). These approaches have utilized a variety of techniques to incorporate the surface hydrophilization agent, including physisorption, hydrogel network formation, surface grafting, layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly and blending base polymers with SMAs. While poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) remains the gold standard, new alternatives have emerged such as polyglycidols, poly(2-oxazoline)s (POx), polyzwitterions, and amphiphilic block copolymers. While these new strategies provide encouraging results, the need for improved correlation between in vitro and in vivo protein resistance is critical. This may be achieved by...
Conspiracy Theories of Consciousness

Soulevant avec D. Dennett la question de la decidabilite empirique de la conception cartesienne de l'esprit, qui est aussi la conception du sens commun, l'A. defend celle-ci et montre que les resultats empiriques ne mettent pas en doute l'existence d'un temps determine de la conscience. Examinant les paradoxes de l'illusion du mouvement et leurs implications sur la temporalite des evenements phenomenaux, en particulier le phenomene phi caracteristique de l'ecran de television, l'A. analyse les mecanismes stalinien et orwellien de l'auto-illusion parmi lesquels, selon D. Dennett, le sens commun nous impose de choisir, et les rejetent en tant que theories de la conspiration qui dupent systematiquement le sujet
Pulse Ring Oscillator Tuning via Pulse Dynamics

This paper presents a practical method for improving timing uncertainty due to thermal noise in a ring oscillator. The methodology utilizes delay elements with non-linear behavior dependent on event separation, the period between successive events. Pulse logic gates are shown to have delay-separation dynamics which can impact the statistics of subsequent events in the oscillators. The slope of the delay-separation is shown to linearly improve the uncertainty in these oscillators. Multiple pulses in a ring is also shown to linearly improve the timing uncertainty.
Study on Emulsion Phenomena and Field Flow Pattern in Side-Blown Copper Smelting Process

Side-blown process is regarded as an efficient, energy-saving, environment-friendly copper smelting technology. The arrangement of nozzles has significant impact on the distribution of emulsion droplets and flow pattern, which mainly decide the efficiency and result of the smelting process. In this paper, physical model was set up based on the same modified Froude number between model and industrial production. Effects of three kinds of nozzles on the size of emulsion droplet, field flow pattern and mixing time were analyzed. The results show: the SMD (Sauter mean diameter) of emulsion droplets turns normal distribution and the average SMD ranges from 2 to 4 mm. The size of emulsion droplets will decrease and the mixing time will be shorter when nozzles are more intensive. Two circulations exist in the fluid and the dead region (velocity below 0.05 m/s) will shrink when nozzles are arranged intensively.
Vulnerability and Violence: On the Poverty of the Remainder (or Beyond Kant)

This article tries to show the irreducible connection between vulnerability and violence. This connection leads us back to the ethical level of experience. If vulnerability makes violence irreducib...
Bee communities in forestry production landscapes: interactive effects of local-level management and landscape context

Land-use change is a key driver of pollinator declines worldwide. Plantation forests are a major land use worldwide and are likely to expand substantially in the near term, especially with projected cellulosic biofuel production. But little is known about the potential local and landscape-scale impacts of plantation forestry on bees, the most important group of pollinators worldwide. We studied the effects of local management, landscape context, and their interaction on bee abundance and species richness in the southeastern US, in pine plantations and other nearby land uses. We sampled bee communities using aerial netting and pan trapping in 85 sites over 3 years. We found that both landscape composition and configuration are important factors for bee diversity and abundance at the landscape scale, though interestingly many landscape factors showed contrasting directional responses for diversity versus abundance. Removing the four most common species, all in the genus Lasioglossum (and which comprised ~ 45% of all specimens) largely harmonized the results between diversity and abundance. In addition, we found several interactions between local management and landscape factors, all consistent with the idea that compositional heterogeneity and configurational complexity are more important for bee communities in poorer-quality local habitat. Our results underscore the importance of considering (1) both landscape configuration and composition in analyses, and (2) interactions between local management and landscape factors. The interactions in particular highlight the need to maintain landscape compositional heterogeneity and configurational complexity, particularly in heavily managed landscapes.
Course 3 Planetary magnetism

Publisher Summary This chapter reviews that nearly all large solar system objects have magnetic fields of their own, as some of the smaller objects do. The magnetic planets include Jupiter, Saturn, Earth, Uranus, Neptune, probably Mercury, and Ganymede. It discusses that there are three ingredients are necessary for magnetic field generation via a self-sustaining dynamo. These are: (1) a large volume of electrically conducting fluid in the planet interior; (2) an energy supply to stir the fluid, either convection, tidal dissipation, or some other energy source; (3) planetary rotation, to organize the fluid motion in a way that provides the necessary positive feedbacks for sustained magnetic field generation to occur. If these ingredients are present then a self-sustaining dynamo is possible. Among the planets in our solar system, however, it is found that a substantial variety of planetary magnetic field structures. The magnitude and dipolarity of the fields also varies greatly. The chapter discusses that magnetic fields can be used to probe planetary interiors and as recorders of their history. Their generation involves fundamental physical processes, worthy of study in their own right. Self-sustaining magnetic fields originate deep in planetary interiors, where there is an electrically conducting fluid. This requirement places important constraints on the composition, state, and thermal regime of magnetic planets. Self-sustaining magnetic fields originate deep in planetary interiors, where there is an electrically conducting fluid. This requirement places important constraints on the composition, state, and thermal regime of magnetic planets. The structure and temporal change of an external magnetic field can provide additional information on the planets interior structure, such as the depth to the dynamo-producing region and possibly its thickness.
Echocardiographic Assessment of Diastolic Function and Diagnosis of Diastolic Heart Failure

Asymptomatic diastolic dysfunction in the general population is common, even in patients without congestive heart failure,1,2 and the prevalence of moderate to severe diastolic dysfunction in asymptomatic patients increases in patients >65 years old with associated hypertension and coronary artery disease.2 The presence of diastolic dysfunction alone predicts worse outcome, with worse prognosis as the degree of diastolic dysfunction increases.2 Thus, it is important to identify and treat underlying problems (most frequently, hypertension) in patients with diastolic dysfunction.
Work Outside Workplace: Why Am I Working on this Paper at Home?

Using the Work Schedules and Work at Home Supplement to the May 2004 Current Population Survey and the American Time Use Survey 2003-09, I examine the characteristics of employees who perform some work at home, and the link between work at home and wages. I find that the probability and duration of work from home vary substantially by occupation and are positively associated with higher levels of education and longer usual hours of work. Women and married men work at home more often than other groups, whereas hourly workers work from home less. Parents shift work at home away from weekends to weekdays. Consistent with the literature, pooled sample estimates suggest a significant wage premium to telecommuting. However, separate analysis by occupation reveals no wage premium for men and women among non-hourly salary workers in high skills jobs. At the same time, there is a large, up to 20%, premium for paid and unpaid work at home in low skill jobs. Further research is needed to explain this puzzling occupation differential.
False memories in patients with mild cognitive impairment and mild Alzheimer’s disease dementia: Can cognitive strategies help?

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that presents predominantly with impairments in learning and memory. Patients with AD are also susceptible to false memories, a clinically relevant memory distortion where a patient remembers an incorrect memory that they believe to be true. The use of cognitive strategies to improve memory performance among patients with AD by reducing false memories has taken on added importance given the lack of disease-modifying agents for AD. However, existing evidence suggests that cognitive strategies to reduce false memories in patients with AD are of limited effectiveness, although these strategies may be useful at earlier stages of the disease. The purpose of this review is to examine experimental findings of false memories and associated memory processes in patients with mild cognitive impairment due to AD and mild AD dementia. Cognitive strategies to reduce false memories in these patient populations are also reviewed. Approaches to clinically relevant future research are suggested and discussed.
Climate Change and Cancer

Changes in weather patterns as a result of climate change are affecting our environment and behaviors, which alter the magnitude and pattern of cancer risks. Exposures to carcinogenic particulate matter compounds could result from increases in the frequency and intensity of wildfire events and anticyclonic high-pressure systems. Climate change is altering human exposure to ultraviolet radiation and may be changing sun-seeking behavior, affecting the risk of melanoma. An increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide, a result of the anthropogenic emissions that drive climate change, is altering how plants grow, reducing their nutritional content and elevating the likelihood of nutrient deficiency-related cancers. More research is needed to understand these complex pathways and their potential impact on future cancer risks.
Crisaborole: A Novel Nonsteroidal Topical Treatment for Atopic Dermatitis.

Objective: To review the efficacy and safety of crisaborole and its place in therapy for the management of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis (AD). Data Sources: A literature search of PubMed (data...
The pushes and pulls of the past: The effects of attachment-related avoidance and nostalgia on approach-oriented social goals.

Abstract Nostalgia, a mostly positive emotional experience that involves revisiting cherished memories/experiences, instigates the pursuit of approach-oriented social goals of affiliation and growth. Attachment-related avoidance describes the extent to which people do not rely on relationships for psychological comfort and avoid interpersonal closeness. The purpose of the present research was to determine if individual differences in attachment-related avoidance moderate nostalgia's capacity to energize social pursuits. Across 2 studies nostalgia increased approach-oriented social intentions/goals at lower levels of attachment-related avoidance, but not at higher levels. Among those higher in attachment-related avoidance, nostalgia was found to decrease intentions to connect with others. These studies suggest that while nostalgia typically energizes adaptive interpersonal pursuits, it can drive people with a history of interpersonal avoidance further from interpersonal relationships.
Impact of molecular weight and degree of conjugation on the thermodynamics of DNA complexation and stability of polyethylenimine-graft-poly(ethylene glycol) copolymers

Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) is often conjugated to polyethylenimine (PEI) to provide colloidal stability to PEI-DNA polyplexes and shield charge leading to toxicity. Here, a library of nine cationic copolymers was synthesized by grafting three molecular weights (750, 2000, 5000Da) of PEG to linear PEI at three conjugation ratios. Using isothermal titration calorimetry, we have quantified the thermodynamics of the associations between the copolymers and DNA and determined the extent to which binding is hindered as a function of PEG molecular weight and conjugation ratio. Low conjugation ratios of 750Da PEG to PEI resulted in little decrease in DNA affinity, but a significant decrease-up to two orders of magnitude-was found for the other copolymers. We identified limitations in determination of affinity using indirect assays (electrophoretic mobility shift and ethidium bromide exclusion) commonly used in the field. Dynamic light scattering of the DNA complexes at physiological ionic strength showed that PEI modifications that did not reduce DNA affinity also did not confer significant colloidal stability, a finding that was supported by calorimetric data on the aggregation process. These results quantify the DNA interaction thermodynamics of PEGylated polycations for the first time and indicate that there is an optimum PEG chain length and degree of substitution in the design of agents that have desirable properties for effective in vivo gene delivery.
Too much water, not enough water: planning and property rights considerations for linking flood management and groundwater recharge

ABSTRACTThis article looks at the potential for connecting two circumstances present in California and elsewhere in the world: having too much water, in the form of flooding; and not having enough ...
Atrial Fibrillation and the Risk of Subsequent Fracture.

Abstract Background There is conflicting evidence regarding the association between atrial fibrillation and the risk of subsequent fractures. Methods We included participants aged 45 years or older from the Framingham Heart Study Offspring, Third-Generation, New Offspring Spouse, Omni 1, and Omni 2 cohorts. We prespecified analyzing index age 65 years as our primary analysis; we repeated analyses for index ages 45, 55, and 75 years. The primary outcome was any incident bone fracture, except finger, toe, foot, skull, and facial fractures. We assessed the association between time-varying atrial fibrillation and subsequent fractures by an illness-death model that accounted for the competing risk of death. We estimated hazard ratios (HR) adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, smoking, diabetes, alcohol intake, and prior fracture. Results We included 3403 participants (mean age of 68 years, 53.3% female) in the analysis at index age 65 years and above. In all, 525 (15%) participants suffered incident fractures during follow-up (median 12.5 years). The HR between atrial fibrillation and subsequent fracture was 1.37; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.06-1.79. There was no evidence of effect modification by sex (HR 1.55; 95% CI, 1.06-2.26 in men; HR 1.22; 95% CI, 0.84-1.77 in women; interaction P value .27). Results were consistent at other index ages. Conclusion Atrial fibrillation was associated with increased risk of incident fracture in the community-based Framingham Heart Study.
Species-specific multiplex PCR for the rapid diagnosis of egg parasitoids of light brown apple moth, Epiphyas postvittana, in northern California

The light brown apple moth (LBAM) was first detected in Alameda County, California, USA, in fall of 2006, triggering a major government response aimed at containment and eradication. The augmentati...
The medical observer in American football: a survey of use and efficacy.

The growing concern over player safety and long-term health effects of sport-related concussion (SRC) led the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) to implement the medical observer, whose primary job is...
Index Investing and Corporate Investment-Price Sensitivity

Firm investment-stock price sensitivity declines in SP by weaker results when the focal firm manager is relatively more informed; and by dynamic reallocation of focal firm investment sensitivity to indexed vs. non-indexed peers.
Evaluation of Pathologic Response in Lymph Nodes of Patients With Lung Cancer Receiving Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy.

Abstract Introduction Major pathologic response (MPR), defined as residual viable tumor of less than or equal to 10%, currently serves as a surrogate end point for survival for patients with resectable NSCLC after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. However, the significance of pathologic response in lymph nodes harboring metastatic tumors in such patients remains uncertain. Therefore, we studied the effect of neoadjuvant chemotherapy on resected positive lymph nodes and determined if the degree of pathologic response in the lymph nodes alone (LN-MPR) or in combination with that of the primary tumor (PT-MPR) was able to predict the outcome. Methods A total of 75 patients with NSCLC who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy and completed surgical resection were included in this study. Tissue specimens were retrospectively evaluated by two pathologists blinded to the patients' treatments and outcomes. Specimens were reviewed for the degree of pathologic response in the primary tumor and in any involved lymph nodes. The prognostic performance of LN-MPR alone or in combination with PT-MPR with respect to overall survival (OS) was evaluated using the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regression model. Results LN-MPR was significantly predictive of long-term OS after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. A combination of PT-MPR with LN-MPR was significantly associated with outcome and allowed stratification of patients into three prognostic groups (p = 0.001). Conclusions LN-MPR in isolation is a reliable predictor of OS in patients with NSCLC receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy. A combination of LN-MPR with PT-MPR seems to correlate well with the outcome and can be used to predict prognosis in this patient population.
Risk-adjusted survival after tissue versus mechanical aortic valve replacement: a 23-year assessment.

BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE STUDY Detailed analyses of risk-adjusted outcomes after mitral valve surgery have documented significant survival decrements with tissue valves at any age. Several recent studies of prosthetic aortic valve replacement (AVR) also have suggested a poorer performance of tissue valves, although analyses have been limited to small matched series. The study aim was to test the hypothesis that AVR with tissue valves is associated with a lower risk-adjusted survival, as compared to mechanical valves. METHODS Between 1986 and 2009, primary isolated AVR, with or without coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), was performed with currently available valve types in 2148 patients (1108 tissue valves, 1040 mechanical). Patients were selected for tissue valves to be used primarily in the elderly. Baseline and operative characteristics were documented prospectively with a consistent variable set over the entire 23-year period. Follow up was obtained with mailed questionnaires, supplemented by National Death Index searches. The average time to death or follow up was seven years, and follow up for survival was 96.2% complete. Risk-adjusted survival characteristics for the two groups were evaluated using a Cox proportional hazards model with stepwise selection of candidate variables. RESULTS Differences in baseline characteristics between groups were (tissue versus mechanical): median age 73 versus 61 years; non-elective surgery 32% versus 28%; CABG 45% versus 35%; median ejection fraction 55% versus 55%; renal failure 6% versus 1%; diabetes 18% versus 7% (p<0.01). Unadjusted Kaplan-Meier survival was significantly lower with tissue than mechanical valves; however, after risk adjustment for the adverse profiles of tissue valve patients, no significant difference was observed in survival after tissue or mechanical AVR. Thus, the hypothesis did not hold, and risk-adjusted survival was equivalent, of course qualified by the fact that selection bias was evident. CONCLUSION With selection criteria that employed tissue AVR more frequently in elderly patients, tissue and mechanical valves achieved similar survival characteristics across the spectrum of patient risk. Further studies of the relative outcomes of mechanical versus tissue valves across the spectrum of patient age seem indicated.
Stepfather–Adolescent Relationship Quality During the First Year of Transitioning to a Stepfamily

This study contributes to the growing literature on factors associated with the formation of close relationships between stepfathers and stepchildren. The authors extend prior research by using nationally representative data from Add Health (N = 179) to examine how factors existing prior to stepfamily formation are associated with the quality of stepfather-adolescent ties within the first year after married stepfathers join the household. Results from structural equation models revealed that both the quality of the mother-adolescent relationship and adolescent adjustment prior to stepfamily formation were significantly associated with the perceived quality of adolescents' relationships with their stepfathers.
To Balance or not to Balance: Confirmatory Factor Analysis of the Affect-Balance Scale

This study examined the psychometric quality of the Affect-Balance Scale (ABS) (Bradburn, 1969) using data collected from 292 middle-aged and older adults, living independently. The dimensionality of the scale was examined, the quality of individual items was tested, and the validity of the ABS was studied. Using a tetrachoric correlation matrix with the robust weighted least squares (WLSMV) estimation method of the Mplus program, we found that two moderately correlated (r = -0.37) constructs are needed to adequately account for the pattern of item scores in the ABS. Two of the 10 ABS items were found to be problematic. When raw sum scores were used in analysis, the correlation between the positive-affect and the negative-affect subscales was lower (r = -0.17), indicating that random and nonrandom measurement error masked the relationship between the two. While affect-balance correlated substantially with five criterion well-being measures, the negative-affect subscale (which constitutes half of the ABS) had a similar pattern of correlations, with only slightly lower magnitude. The theoretical construct of nobreak 'balance' is also questioned. The 'balance' scoring method (subtracting the negative-affect subscale score from the positive-affect subscale score) nets exactly the same score as does summing scores from both subscales together. Accordingly, the summed scores have the very same correlations with other variables as do the balance scores.
Test Anxiety in Adolescents with Learning Disabilities and Behavior Disorders

This study investigated the relative influence on test anxiety of academic self-concept, cognitive interference, academic achievement, and study skills, with 82 adolescents with learning disabilities and behavior disorders who were enrolled in a small, private, special education day school. Subjects completed various measures of anxiety, academic performance, and other assessments; and correlation and stepwise multiple-regression procedures were used to analyze the data. Results showed a significant positive relationship between test anxiety and cognitive interference and a significant negative relationship between test anxiety and study habits. Cognitive interference was the most powerful predictor of test anxiety.
Initial data and coordinates for multiple black hole systems

We present here an alternative approach to data setting for spacetimes with multiple moving black holes generalizing the Kerr-Schild form for rotating or nonrotating single black holes to multiple moving holes. Because this scheme preserves the Kerr-Schild form near the holes, it selects out the behavior of null rays near the holes, may simplify horizon tracking, and may prove useful in computational applications. For computational evolution, a discussion of coordinates (lapse function and shift vector) is given which preserves some of the properties of the single-hole Kerr-Schild form.
Water content of equine articular cartilage: effects of enzymatic degradation and "artificial fibrillation".

A method is described for accurate and reproducible determination of wet and dry weights of small articular cartilage samples. The water content of the articular cartilage samples before and after ...
Regioselectivity of E/Z photoisomerization of fluorinated cisoid (1E,3E)-1,4-diphenylbutadienes via direct irradiation

Direct irradiation of the 1E,3E isomers of six cisoid fluorinated butadienes in an organic solvent at room temperature showed a predominant formation of the 1Z,3E isomers.
Complement increases in experimental Leishmania donovani infection of the golden hamster

Abstract Complement (C') levels in experimental visceral leishmaniasis were studied in the golden hamster. Using the total haemolytic assay of C' and the haemolytic diffusion plate assay for factor B, it was observed that the total haemolytic C' as well as factor B levels increased markedly starting one week after infection and remained high throughout most of the infection. A decline in C' level was noted toward the terminal stage of infection. The reason for the persistent high level of C' noted in this study was discussed.
Basement membrane sliding and targeted adhesion remodels tissue boundaries during uterine-vulval attachment in Caenorhabditis elegans

Large gaps in basement membrane occur at sites of cell invasion and tissue remodelling in development and cancer. Though never followed directly in vivo, basement membrane dissolution or reduced synthesis have been postulated to create these gaps. Using landmark photobleaching and optical highlighting of laminin and type IV collagen, we find that a new mechanism, basement membrane sliding, underlies basement membrane gap enlargement during uterine-vulval attachment in Caenorhabditis elegans. Laser ablation and mutant analysis reveal that the invaginating vulval cells promote basement membrane movement. Further, an RNA interference and expression screen identifies the integrin INA-1/PAT-3 and VAB-19, homologue of the tumour suppressor Kank, as regulators of basement membrane opening. Both concentrate within vulval cells at the basement membrane gap boundary and halt expansion of the shifting basement membrane. Basement membrane sliding followed by targeted adhesion represents a new mechanism for creating precise basement membrane breaches that can be used by cells to break down compartment boundaries.
Monitoring Mars with the Hubble Space Telescope: 1990-1991 Observations

Images of Mars obtained using the Planetary Camera on the Hubble Space Telescope during 1990 and 1991 are described and analyzed. Multispectral images of Mars record the martian season between L(sub s) = 348 deg and 60 deg corresponding to late winter and spring in the northern hemisphere. The wavelengths of these observations varied between 230 nm in the ultraviolet and 890 nm in the near infrared. We use these images to discuss atmospheric and polar phenomena, to constrain the aerosols and ozone in the martian atmosphere, and to compare surface albedo features within this data set as well as with previous observations. Two methods are used to constrain the opacity of the martian atmosphere: comparisons of ultraviolet images with atmospheric scattering models and examination of contrast changes of surface features observed at visible wavelengths. Our observations are consistent with a Mars which was quite different from the planet when it was viewed by Viking; we estimate an upper limit of 0.1 for equatorial dust opacity near vernal equinox, compared to values of 0.4 to 0.5 measured in Chryse by Viking Lander 1. Later, at L(sub s) = 60 deg, and upper limit of 0.2 was found for dust in the southern hemisphere. Except for suggestions of local dust activity near the north polar cap in late spring, there was no visual evidence of dust storms on the planet. The Hartley band of ozone is within the F230W filter bandpass, and the 230W/336W ratio is therefore sensitive to ozone. High latitude ozone is observed at a concentration similar to that observed by Mariner 9; a seasonal dependence in ozone concentration was observed with concentration decreasing at northern arctic latitudes and increasing at southern midlatitudes as L(sub s) increases from 350 deg to 60 deg. Despite the difference in dust loading, the behavior of condensate clouds and the recession of the north polar cap are consistent with those observed during Viking years. Late winter images of the north polar region reveal an active north polar hood with a maximum (UV) opacity of about 0.25 near 50 deg latitude; the hood seems to have an annular form, with the central, polar regions having smaller opacity. Clouds observed in the northern hemisphere to the south of the hood boundary are suggestive of fronts similar to those observed during the Mariner 9 mission. A diurnal variation in the hood clouds which is (anti) correlated with the amount of water vapor in the atmosphere is noted. Images were deconvolved using the Richardson-Lucy iterative algorithm to remove the defocussing effects of the spherical aberration of the HST primary. Even when Mars subtended less than 5 arcsec, in May 1991, the images were scientifically useful and comparable to photographic images obtained at opposition. Although the data are subject to the solar pointing constraint for HST, the relatively slow movement of the allowed observation window, which is more than one half martian year, with respect to the martian seasons will permit us to address the question of major variations in the martian atmosphere.
Molecular pathogenesis of multiple myeloma: Basic and clinical updates

Multiple myeloma is divided into two distinct genetic subtypes based on chromosome content. Hyperdiploid myeloma is characterized by multiple trisomies of chromosomes 3, 5, 7, 9 11, 15, 19 and 21, and lacks recurrent immunoglobulin gene translocations. Non-hyperdiploid myeloma in contrast is characterized by chromosome translocations t(4;14), t(14;16), t(14;20), t(6;14) and t(11;14). A unifying event in the pathogenesis of multiple myeloma is the dysregulated expression of a cyclin D gene, either directly by juxtaposition to an immunoglobulin enhancer, as a result of ectopic expression of a MAF family transcription factor, or indirectly by as yet unidentified mechanisms. Secondary genetic events include rearrangements of MYC, activating mutations of NRAS, KRAS or BRAF, a promiscuous array of mutations that activate NFkB and deletions of 17p. Among the poor-risk genetic features are t(4;14), t(14;16), t(14;20), del 17p and gains of 1q. Available evidence supports the use of a risk-stratified approach to the treatment of patients with multiple myeloma, with the early and prolonged use of bortezomib particularly in patients with t(4;14) and del 17p.
Behaviour of Ag/AgCl electrodes in solutions containing both Cl− and I−☆

Abstract Potentials of Ag/AgCl electrodes exposed to solutions containing Cl − and I − were recorded. Solutions contained halide concentrations arranged in matrix form, such that (pCl = 3 → 1, pI = 6 → 3). In the region pI 6 to 4, the potentials rapidly reached steady-state values. Within this range, the potentials decreased linearly with pI, the slope being related to pCl. In the range pI 4 to 3, potentials E initially decreased linearly with time t , the magnitude of the rate of change, |d E /d t |, increasing with diminishing pI. Eventually, at any particular pI value less than 4, |d E /d t | began to increase rapidly, reached a maximum, then diminished as the electrode potential approached the theoretical potential of the Ag/AgI electrode. This S-shaped relation of potential with time, defined as transformation, marks the functional transition of the electrode from the Ag/AgCl type to the Ag/AgI type. Electrodes removed from solutions during transformation were analysed by mass spectrometric and X-ray diffraction techniques. These studies revealed that AgI replaces AgCl in the electrode film without the formation of solid solution. It is concluded that the potential of the silver/silver-halide electrode is determined by the halides in both solution and crystalline phases.
Just DrawIt: a 3D sketching system

We present "JustDrawIt", a sketch-based system for creating 3D curves suitable for surfacing. The user can sketch in a free-form manner from any view at any time, and the system infers how those sketch strokes should be added to the drawing. Specifically, existing curves are projected to 2D and analyzed to see if the stroke edits or extends an existing curve, or if the stroke should make a new curve. In the former case the 2D stroke is promoted to 3D using the position of the existing curve, and then joined to that curve. In the latter case, we use additional spatial information (e.g. temporary 3D surfaces) to create a new curve in 3D. All non-sketching interactions are based on unintrusive context-aware, in-screen pie menus designed for rapid pen-based input. We also provide novel rendering styles and aides for interpreting and working with 3D sketches. Finally, we support snapping together curve networks and specifying normals in order to create surface models.
Internationalizing the Public Relations Curriculum.

Abstract This article offers public relations educators guidance on the multiple ways that they can internationalize the public relations curriculum at their schools. Public relations education currently includes classes that focus on writing and management. However, with the increasing importance of international communication, many educators now see the need to create a course dedicated to international public relations. This article provides three proven options that will allow educators to incorporate the topics of culture, international practices, and culturally sensitive theory development into their public relations programs.
Average and unusual locations of the Earth's magnetopause and bow shock

Average and unusual locations of magnetopause and bow shock positions observed by IMP spacecraft
A preliminary note on a population of Monoblepharis

Attention is called to the gregarious habit of species of Monoblepharis and the questions are raised as to how they maintain their specific identities and if hybrids are not sometimes formed. A population of species from Michigan is briefly described and one, strongly suggestive of a hybrid, is named Monoblepharis micrandra sp.nov.
Sequential testing and estimation

Abstract This paper discusses a new method of sequential testing and estimation which yields possibly nonterminating tests of power one and uniformly low probability of Type I error. The method is illustrated by indicating a possible application to pollution control.
Thermoelectric power of annealed and quenched gold-platinum alloys at low temperatures☆

Abstract The phonon-drag thermopower of dilute gold-platinum alloys changes it sign at about 20°K and is negative at low temperatures. Quenched-in lattice vacancies cause a strong reduction in the phonon-drag thermopower below 20°K.
Fossil Particle Tracks and Uranium Distributions in Minerals of the Vaca Muerta Meteorite.

Radiochemical measurements of fossil charged particle tracks and uranium distribution in Vaca Muerta meteorite
Public Care or Distorted Family Relationships: the Antecedents of Violent Crime

: 166 boys living in a deprived inner city area in Northern England, and born between 1944 and 1953 were followed up through local and national criminal records to an average age of 30. As adults, just over a quarter (26%) had a conviction for an offence against the person. Having a conviction for ‘violence’ was strongly associated with juvenile delinquency and conduct disorder. It was also found to be associated with certain deficiencies and distorted relationships in the natural home. Although boys who had been in public care for short periods contained a relatively high proportion of subjects later convicted of crimes against the person, the proportion among boys who were virtually brought up in care was much lower. There was also an inverse ratio between the length of time spent in care and the number of violent offences committed in adult life by boys committed to care for offences and being beyond control.