cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Is There any Survival Benefit of Maintenance Chemotherapy Following Adjuvant Chemotherapy in Patients with Resected Pancreatic Cancer Patients with Post-Surgery Elevated CA 19-9?

Background Pancreatectomy offers only potential for cure but is only possible in a minority of patients. Even in those patients who receive adjuvant chemotherapy, majority of them succumb to death due to metastases. Radiation Therapy Oncology Group 9704 showed that post-surgery CA 19-9 levels are an important predictor of survival. European study group for pancreatic cancer-3 showed that completion of all 6 cycles of adjuvant chemotherapy was an independent prognostic factor. Any survival benefit of an intensified chemotherapy strategy has not been demonstrated in patients with persistently elevated CA 19-9 following surgery. The object of this study was to investigate any benefit of maintenance chemotherapy following adjuvant in these patients. Methods Twenty patients with R0 surgery of pancreatic cancer who received adjuvant chemotherapy with post-surgery elevated CA 19-9 but no radiographic evidence of cancer was identified from 2005-2017. Either biopsy or positron emission tomography scan determined recurrence of cancer. Efficacy endpoints including overall survival and disease-free survival were assessed. Results Maintenance and additional chemotherapeutic agents included 5-FU, capecitabine, platinum agents, irinotecan and nab-paclitaxel. CA 19-9 normalized in 3 patients while 22 persisted to be elevated or had further increase in the marker. Two patients underwent metastatectomy. Median disease-free survival was 14.5m (9-18), OS 29m (19-96) and OS rates were 80%, 50% at 1 and 2 years respectively. Conclusions We believe that the longer overall survival of our patients with elevated CA 19-9 post-surgery was due to maintenance and additional chemotherapy following planned 6-months of adjuvant therapy, close monitoring with monthly CA 19-9 and 3-monthly computed tomography scans. Our study also underlines importance of collecting pre-surgery CA 19-9 and complete staging including chest. Prospective study aiming to evaluate role of maintenance or intensified chemotherapy or targeted agents are indicated.
An evaluation of basic articulators and their concepts: Part II. Arbitrary, positional, semi adjustable articulators

Abstract Suggestings have been made for adapting the Hanau Model H articulator for fixed restorative prosthesis. However, the shortcomings of the instrument must be understood. A more adjustable instrument would seem to be indicated in order to reduce the degree of occlusal correction necessary to harmonize biologic movement with the occlusion produced on the articulator. On the basis of the mathematical study, the instrument is of practical value and within the accuracy of the records used for complete denture prosthesis.
Against Immunity for Unilateral Refusal to Deal in Intellectual Property: Why Antitrust Law Should Not Distinguish between IP and Other Property Rights

The antitrust unilateral refusal to deal doctrine raises vexing issues as regards the preservation of ex ante incentives to invest and the scope of the right to exclude from one's property. The Federal Circuit recently chose to give intellectual property owners immunity for unilaterally refusing to deal, thereby creating a distinction between intellectual property and other property rights for the application of antitrust law. This Article argues against the immunity rule for unilateral refusals to deal in intellectual property and considers whether the rule of reason should be applied in all unilateral refusal to deal cases, regardless of the type of property involved. The immunity rule overlooks the notion that intellectual property laws aim at putting intangible and tangible property on equal footing and distorts the application of antitrust principles by refusing to inquire into the intent for refusing to deal when intellectual property is at issue. In addition, application of the immunity rule causes important under-deterrence problems. This Article argues in favor of the application of the rule of reason and contends that, although exercise of intellectual property rights is a presumptively valid business justification for refusing to deal, plaintiffs should be able to rebut this presumption by undermining the causal link between the intellectual property and the refusal. This requires an inquiry into intent that is consistent with antitrust principles and preserves legitimate intellectual property claims. © Simon Genevaz t Associate, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton, Brussels office. Any views or opinions in this Article are solely those of the author. I am deeply indebted to Harvard Law School Professor Einer Elhauge for his guidance and rigor in reviewing this Article. Professor John Temple Lang and Mr. James Modrall, respectively Counsel and Partner in the Brussels office of Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton, also provided comments that improved the quality of this Article. Finally, I would like to thank the editors of the Berkeley Technology Law Journal for their remarkable work. Remaining errors or inaccuracies are mine. BERKELEY TECHNOLOGY LAW JOURNAL
Solutions to the Monge–Ampère Equation with Polyhedral and Y-Shaped Singularities

We construct convex functions on $$\mathbb {R}^3$$ and $$\mathbb {R}^4$$ that are smooth solutions to the Monge–Ampere equation $$\begin{aligned} \det D^2u = 1 \end{aligned}$$ away from compact one-dimensional singular sets, which can be Y-shaped or form the edges of a convex polytope. The examples solve the equation in the Alexandrov sense away from finitely many points. Our approach is based on solving an obstacle problem where the graph of the obstacle is a convex polytope
Recurrence and disease-specific survival after 10-year disease-free interval in patients with primary retroperitoneal liposarcoma: Implications for long-term surveillance.

11546Background: Surveillance imaging of patients with retroperitoneal liposarcoma (RP-LPS) following surgical resection is based on a projected risk of locoregional and distant recurrence. The dur...
Two-Year Experience With Latanoprostene Bunod in Clinical Practice.

PRECIS We retrospectively reviewed records of patients prescribed latanoprostene bunod 0.024% (LBN) to assess its efficacy and safety in a real-world clinical setting. LBN was efficacious in lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) and had a favorable safety profile. PURPOSE The aim of this study was to evaluate the usage of LBN, the first topical nitric oxide-donating prostaglandin analog (PGA) for reducing IOP, in clinical practice. PATIENTS AND METHODS Retrospective review identified patients prescribed LBN by 5 glaucoma specialists at an academic center from January 2018 to November 2019. Fifty-six patients (102 eyes) met inclusion criteria of an IOP measured at the visit LBN was prescribed and at 2 visits ≥7 days after beginning treatment, with no surgeries, lasers or medication changes during follow-up. Main outcome measures were IOP, number of ocular medications, and adverse effects. RESULTS IOP (mean±SD, mm Hg) at the visit LBN was prescribed was 16.2±4.3 on 3.2±1.5 glaucoma medications. IOP at most recent visit was 13.7±3.8 on 3.2±1.6 medications. Mean IOP reduction was 2.1±3.5 (P<0.0001) at first follow-up, after 38.7±36.5 days, and 2.5±3.3 (P<0.0001) at last follow-up, after 235.9±160.8 days. Pressure decreased ≥2 mm Hg in 60%, ≥3 mm Hg in 46%, and ≥4 mm Hg in 34% of eyes. All patients received LBN as replacement for a PGA or latanoprost/netarsudil fixed-dose combination. Forty-three patients remained on LBN throughout the follow-up period. Seven were discontinued for insufficient pressure control, 4 for adverse effects including pain and itching, and 2 for financial reasons. CONCLUSIONS In 2 years of clinical use of LBN, patients exhibited IOP reductions that were statistically significant overall and clinically meaningful in 60% of patients. LBN was well-tolerated and may be more efficacious than traditional PGAs.
Volumetric glutamate imaging (GluCEST) using 7T MRI can lateralize nonlesional temporal lobe epilepsy: A preliminary study.

INTRODUCTION Drug-resistant epilepsy patients show worse outcomes after resection when standard neuroimaging is nonlesional, which occurs in one-third of patients. In prior work, we employed 2-D glutamate imaging, Glutamate Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer (GluCEST), to lateralize seizure onset in nonlesional temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) based on increased ipsilateral GluCEST signal in the total hippocampus and hippocampal head. We present a significant advancement to single-slice GluCEST imaging, allowing for three-dimensional analysis of brain glutamate networks. METHODS The study population consisted of four MRI-negative, nonlesional TLE patients (two male, two female) with electrographically identified left temporal onset seizures. Imaging was conducted on a Siemens 7T MRI scanner using the CEST method for glutamate, while the advanced normalization tools (ANTs) pipeline and the Automated Segmentation of the Hippocampal Subfields (ASHS) method were employed for image analysis. RESULTS Volumetric GluCEST imaging was validated in four nonlesional TLE patients showing increased glutamate lateralized to the hippocampus of seizure onset (p = .048, with a difference among ipsilateral to contralateral GluCEST signal percentage ranging from -0.05 to 1.37), as well as increased GluCEST signal in the ipsilateral subiculum (p = .034, with a difference among ipsilateral to contralateral GluCEST signal ranging from 0.13 to 1.57). CONCLUSIONS The ability of 3-D, volumetric GluCEST to localize seizure onset down to the hippocampal subfield in nonlesional TLE is an improvement upon our previous 2-D, single-slice GluCEST method. Eventually, we hope to expand volumetric GluCEST to whole-brain glutamate imaging, thus enabling noninvasive analysis of glutamate networks in epilepsy and potentially leading to improved clinical outcomes.
ON(LINE) TRANSPARENCY AND THE BLACK PUBLIC SPHERE

In the past several decades, Black publics have increasingly employed digital technologies to advance Black liberation movements, culture, and joy. This proliferation of Black publics online has prompted many scholars to ask whether the internet as a tool ultimately works to the benefit or detriment of marginal publics. Proponents of internet technology cite the aforementioned growth of these discursive communities online as well as their success in organizing demonstrations and producing independent media. Critics of the internet argue that its construction by powerful institutions forecloses the possibility of it being used to truly challenge those institutions. This essay seeks to contribute to this discussion not by advocating for one side or another but exploring the ways in which these two literatures may be inclusive. It does so by putting the theoretical construct of the Black public in conversation with an oft-discussed digital affordance: transparency. It first outlines the historical relationship between the two, noting both the threats and opportunities that transparency has created for Black publics. It moves on to discuss the forces of the state and the market that built transparency into the infrastructure of the internet. It then synthesizes the histories of Black publics and the internet by discussing how the historical threats and opportunities of transparency are impacting Black publics online. Finally, this paper concludes with some thoughts on the idea that digital technology might simultaneously aid and harm marginal publics, particularly with regard to its implications for digital strategy.
Bidirectional effects of protein kinase C activators. Studies with human neutrophils and platelet-activating factor.

Protein kinase C (PKC) (Ca2+/phospholipid-dependent enzyme) activators stimulated human neutrophils to reduce the availability of high affinity receptors for platelet-activating factor. These effects were concentration dependent, irreversible, temperature sensitive, and antagonized by a PKC blocker. The activators also inhibited 1-O-alkyl-65% hexadecyl, 25% octadecyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (PAF)-induced Ca2+ transients; this inhibition correlated precisely with receptor depletion. Contrastingly, PKC activators could enhance as well as inhibit PAF-induced degranulation. Inhibition of degranulation occurred only at concentrations of the activators which depressed high affinity PAF binding by greater than 75%. Cells treated with lesser activator concentrations responded to PAF with reduced but still substantial rises in cytosolic Ca2+, markedly increased degranulation, and markedly increased PKC mobilization. The last two responses, however, failed to occur in cells that were (a) calcium depleted, (b) treated with high activator concentrations (which inhibited virtually all PAF binding and PAF-induced Ca2+ transients), or (c) treated with PAF 5 min before a PKC activator (PAF-induced rises in cytosolic Ca2+ reversed in less than 5 min). Thus, activated PKC down-regulates high affinity PAF receptors. This tends to reduce neutrophil responses to PAF. On the other hand, PAF, perhaps by raising cytosolic Ca2+, acts synergistically with PKC activators in mobilizing PKC. This may tend to enhance function but seems capable of influencing only those responses that are elicited by PKC activators (e.g. degranulation but not Ca2+ transients). The complex and bidirectional effects of PKC activators on other receptor-mediated, calcium mobilizing agonists in various cell types may reflect these opposing mechanisms.
The Physics of the Solar Cell

Semiconductor solar cells are fundamentally quite simple devices. Semiconductors have the capacity to absorb light and to deliver a portion of the energy of the absorbed photons to carriers of electrical current – electrons and holes. A semiconductor diode separates and collects the carriers and conducts the generated electrical current preferentially in a specific direction. Thus, a solar cell is simply a semiconductor diode that has been carefully designed and constructed to efficiently absorb and convert light energy from the sun into electrical energy.
Marriage, State Domestic Regulations Power, and Family Strength

Marriage is important to the Virginia domestic relations code. It is also important to a strong Virginia. The pace at which marriage has been revised around the United States may have Virginians, and even lawyers, understandably a bit uncertain about the law on marriage in Virginia. This article will clarify Virginia law on marriage, provide an overview of recent legal events surrounding marriage regulation, and discuss the effects of those events on Virginia family law.
RBF-based 2D optimal spatial control of the 3D reaction-convection-diffusion equation

Solving optimal control problems for spatially-distributed systems with multiple spatial dimensions can be computationally expensive. A numerical algorithm is proposed that combines a radial basis function expansion for the target trajectory with moment analysis. The approach is applicable to optimal control problems for linear spatially-distributed systems, for which the solution is expressed as a convolution of the system's kernel and its inputs. A novel feature is the insensitivity of its computational cost to the sharpness of spatial variations in the state or optimal control fields. This approach is applied to the optimal control of the three-dimensional reaction-convection-diffusion equation in which the control input and target are defined over two-dimensional spatial fields.
A unique ribonucleic acid of low molecular weight from rat liver microsomes.

Abstract The presence in rat liver microsomes of a unique, low molecular weight RNA is described. This RNA, which for convenience is referred to as membrane RNA, is not present in ribosomes prepared from microsomes by deoxycholate treatment. It comprises 15 to 20% of the total microsomal RNA and has the following chemical and biological properties: (a) high content of guanosine + cytidine similar to transfer RNA; (b) low content of 3'-terminal adenosine groups, methylated bases, and pseudouridylic acid; (c) heterogeneous behavior on hydroxylapatite columns; and (d) little or no amino acid acceptor activity. These properties distinguish membrane RNA from both 5 S RNA and biologically active transfer RNA. Evidence is presented which suggests that this new RNA is not the result of degradation of high molecular weight RNA during the preparative procedures used.
Oxygen transfer reactions of amine N-oxides—III

Abstract The products of the reactions amine N-oxides with diphenylketene, diphenylacetyl chloride, biphenyleneketene, 9-fluorencarbonyl chloride and 1,2-diphenyl cyclopropene-3-carbonyl chloride are those expected from the intervention of a highly reactive electrophilic intermediate. Possible structures for this intermediate are discussed.
Zines at Work: Visualizing Diasporic Filipina/o Identities in .45 Kaliber Proof

As an alternative media form, zines give voice to marginalized communities where the creators articulate ideologies and experiences often overlooked in mainstream society. This article examines Filipina/o diasporic identity construction through a visual and textual analysis of .45 Kaliber Proof , a zine created in the early 2000s by Anakbayan Seattle, a progressive Filipina/o American youth organization. Zines have become a counter-hegemonic space where politically-based Filipina/o diasporic identities are made visible. In analyzing the layouts, texts, and images of various issues, two overarching themes emerge in the zine: a reflection of the Filipina/o American community in the US and a connection between the history and conditions of the Philippines to the Filipina/o diaspora in the United States. These themes ultimately led to a retelling of the Filipina/o experience, transforming .45 Kaliber Proof into a tool to subvert the current hegemonic culture in the Philippines and the US .
Increased Sensitivity to H2O2 in Glutathione Peroxidase-Deficient Rat Granulocytes

The role of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in protecting phagocytic function of peritoneal granulocytes (PMN) was assessed using selenium (Se)-deficient rats. Rats fed an Se-deficient diet for 12-15 weeks developed profound Se deficiency. Their PMN were found to contain 11% of control levels of GSH-Px. Previous studies have shown that at this level of enzyme activity, the metabolism of H2O2 via the glutathione cycle was impaired. Despite this, the initial rate of phagocytosis, as measured by the ingestion of opsonized oil red O particles, was normal. Prior incubation of PMN in an H2O2-generating system resulted in a time-dependent loss in the ability of the cells to ingest. GSH-Px-deficient PMN were affected to a greater degree than control PMN. Degranulation, as measured by the release of beta-glucuronidase into the extracellular medium after stimulation of PMN by opsonized zymosan in the presence of cytochalasin B, was unaffected by GSH-Px deficiency. Prior incubation of PMN in an H2O2 generating system resulted in decreased degranulation in both control and GSH-Px-deficient PMN, with GSH-Px-deficient PMN being affected to a greater degree. The killing of Staphylococcus aureus 502A by both control and GSH-Px-deficient PMN was the same. There was no effect of prior H2O2 incubation on bacterial killing in either control or GSH-Px-deficient PMN. Thus, GSH-Px appears to be important in protecting those aspects of phagocytic function that are sensitive to the destructive properties of exogenous H2O2.
Management of selected rectal injuries by primary repair

Background Diversion of the fecal stream with or without primary repair has been the mainstay of therapy for rectal injuries. Because primary repair has replaced colostomy as the treatment of choice for most colon injuries, we reviewed our experience with primary repair of rectal injuries in order to determine if primary repair without diversion is a feasible option in selected patients. Materials and Methods All traumatic rectal injuries over the past 48 months were reviewed for mechanism of injury, diagnosis, treatment, and outcome. Results Thirty consecutive patients with extra-peritoneal rectal injuries were identified. Six of the 30 patients underwent primary repair without diversion. Five were repaired transanally, and 1 was repaired at celiotomy. There was no morbidity related to the rectal repair in patients who underwent primary repair without diversion, and there were no deaths. Conclusions Based on a small number of patients, these data suggest that primary repair of rectal injuries in selected patients may be feasible. Further prospective investigation is needed to determine which patients may be successfully treated in this fashion.
The effect of papermill wastewater irrigation and gypsum soil amendments on sodium accumulation by cottonwood and soil

Abstract Gypsum soil amendments affected the concentrations of sodium in the stems and leaves of Populus seedlings irrigated with pulpmill effluent. Concentrations of sodium in the sapling tissues increased with gypsum applications which gave total calcium application rates of 175 mg Cal −1 wastewater (ww) and decreased as calcium application rates were increased to 625 mg Cal −1 ww. Conversely, stem biomass production decreased as calcium application rates increased to 175 mg Cal −1 ww and then increased as calcium application increased to 625 mg Cal t1 ww. This resulted in no significant differences across treatment in either total sodium uptake or removal of sodium from the soil by the Populus seedlings. Total sodium uptake by Populus was about 0.002% of wastewater inputs. Infiltration rate increased with the increasing gypsum application. Gypsum application rate was not associated with differences in the concentration and distribution of sodium in the soil profile but increased application rates were associated with decreased soil pH.
Physicians’ Perspectives on Prescribing Benzodiazepines for Older Adults: A Qualitative Study

There is a continued high prevalence of benzodiazepine use by older community-residing adults and of their continued prescription by practitioners, despite well known adverse effects and the availability of safer, effective alternatives. To understand factors influencing chronic use of benzodiazepines in older adults. Qualitative study, semistructured interviews with physicians. Thirty-three practicing primary care physicians around Philadelphia. Qualitative interviews were audiotaped, transcribed, and entered into a qualitative software program. A multidisciplinary team coded transcripts and developed themes. Physicians generally endorsed benzodiazepines as effective treatment for anxiety, citing quick action and strong patient satisfaction. The use of benzodiazepines in older adults was not seen to be problematic because they did not show drug-seeking or escalating dose behavior suggesting addiction. Physicians minimized other risks of benzodiazepines and did not view monitoring or restricting renewal of prescriptions as an important clinical focus relative to higher-priority medical issues. Many physicians expressed skepticism about risks of continued use and considerable pessimism in the successful taper/discontinuation in older patients with long-term use and prior failed attempts. Physicians also anticipated patient resistance to any such efforts, including switching physicians. Primary care physicians are averse to addressing the public health problem of benzodiazepine overuse in the elderly. Their attitudes generally conflict with practice guidelines and they complain of a lack of training in constructive strategies to address this problem. A 2-pronged effort should focus on increasing skill level and preventing new cases of benzodiazepine dependency through improved patient education and vigilant monitoring of prescription renewal.
Interfaces of sleep and anesthesia

In the past decades there has been an increasing focus on the relationship of sleep and anesthesia. This relationship bears on the fundamental scientific questions in anesthesiology, such as the mechanism of anesthetic-induced unconsciousness. However, given the increasing prevalence of sleep disorders in surgical patients, the interfaces of sleep and anesthesia are now a pressing clinical concern. This article discusses sleep and anesthesia from the perspective of phenotype, mechanism and function, with some concluding thoughts on the relevance to neuroanesthesiology.
Three-dimensional geologic model of the northern Nevada rift and the Beowawe geothermal system, north-central Nevada

A three-dimensional (3D) geologic model of part of the northern Nevada rift encompassing the Beowawe geothermal system was developed from a series of two-dimensional (2D) geologic and geophysical models. The 3D model was constrained by local geophysical, geologic, and drill-hole information and integrates geologic and tectonic interpretations for the region. It places important geologic constraints on the extent and configuration of the active Beowawe geothermal system. The geologic framework represented in this model facilitates hydrologic modeling of the Beowawe geothermal system and evaluation of fluid flow in faults and adjacent rock units. Basin depths were determined using an iterative gravity-inversion technique that calculates the thickness of low-density, basin-filling deposits. The remaining subsurface structure was modeled using 2D potential-field modeling software. Crustal cross sections from the 2D models were generalized for use in the 3D model and consist of six stratigraphic layers defined as low-density basin sediments, volcanic rocks, basalt-andesite rocks of the northern Nevada rift, Jurassic and Cretaceous intrusive rocks, and Paleozoic siliceous and carbonate sedimentary rocks of the upper and lower plates of the Roberts Mountains allochthon, respectively. This simplified stratigraphy was combined with mapped surface geology and was extrapolated across the 3D model area. Features along the northern Nevada rift depicted by the model may represent preexisting crustal structures that controlled the locations and character of Tertiary tectonic and magmatic events related to Basin and Range extension and emplacement of the middle Miocene northern Nevada rift. Several of the geologic features represented are important components of the Beowawe geothermal system. Prominent ENE-trending faults (e.g., Malpais fault) that bound the southern edge of Whirlwind Valley, and older NNW-striking faults (e.g., Dunphy Pass and Muleshoe faults) that form major features of the model, are likely important pathways for geothermal fluids and groundwater flow from the Humboldt River, which may recharge the Beowawe system.
Of myth and mantra: The slippery taxonomy of printed and oral Vrat Kathas

Cet article examine comment les Vrat Kathas imprimes (histoires associees aux rituels domestiques des femmes Hindous) presentent des categories de mythes, de mantra ainsi que leur « logique orale » interne. Ce document articulera trois choses: 1) Que les Vrat Kathas meritent d'etre inclus dans la plus haute categorie de « mythe » grâce a leur fonctionnement a l'interieur da la structure des rituels de la femme Hindou, et dans sa perception du monde; 2) Ces histoires sont modelees sur la conception du mantra comme acte de paroles; et 3) Meme a l'ecrit, ces histoires imprimes maintiennent une « logique orale » en terme de structure, de presentation narrative et d'intention. Donc, ces pamphlets imprimes peuvent aussi qualifier, ironiquement comme des actes de « paroles ». Tout ceci demontre la difficulte inherente dans la creation d'une taxonomie solide de genres, et suggere qu'une comprehension plus appropriee n'est qu'un point sur le continuum.
THE NATURE AND DISTRIBUTION OF PLASMODESMATA IN THE TOBACCO PLANT

The questions of the nature, distribution, and possible functions of plasmodesnmatal1 in higher plants have received considerable attention from numerous investigators in the past, but during the present century very little has been added to our knowledge concerning them. Those desiring a review of the important literature on this subject are referred to Meyer (I920) or Lundegardh (I922). This field of investigation offers many opportunities for interesting researches in the fields of plant physiology, morphology, and pathology which may have an important bearing on the interpretation of the life processes of the plant. The present researches were undertaken in an attempt to determine the extent and distribution of plasmodesmata in the tobacco plant, preliminary to an attempt to ascertain their possible r6le as a path for the transfer of the virus principle causing the mosaic disease of tobacco.
Galantamine-ER for the treatment of mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s disease

An extended release form of the cholinesterase inhibitor (ChEI) drug galantamine (galantamine-ER) was developed, chiefly to increase adherence to medication regimes in patients with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease (AD). Except for predicted differences in (C(max)) and t(max), comparable doses of once daily galantamine-ER and regular, immediate release galantamine, (galantamine-IR), are pharmacologically equivalent. A 24-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-and active-controlled, multicenter phase III trial, which compared galantamine-IR, galantamine-ER and placebo in subjects with mild to moderate AD (mini-mental state examination [MMSE] score range, 10 to 24) showed that both formulations of galantamine were significantly better than placebo in terms of cognition, although not with regard to global change. There was no difference in drug-related adverse events between galantamine-ER and galantamine-IR. Since its release onto the market galantamine-ER has enjoyed wide popularity and a recent surveillance study suggests that it has the highest 1-year persistence rate of all the ChEIs.
Joint effects between five identified risk variants, allergy, and autoimmune conditions on glioma risk

Common variants in two of the five genetic regions recently identified from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of risk of glioma were reported to interact with a history of allergic symptoms. In a pooled analysis of five epidemiologic studies, we evaluated the association between the five GWAS implicated gene variants and allergies and autoimmune conditions (AIC) on glioma risk (851 adult glioma cases and 3,977 controls). We further evaluated the joint effects between allergies and AIC and these gene variants on glioma risk. Risk estimates were calculated as odds ratios (OR) and 95 % confidence intervals (95 % CI), adjusted for age, gender, and study. Joint effects were evaluated by conducting stratified analyses whereby the risk associations (OR and 95 % CI) with the allergy or autoimmune conditions for glioma were evaluated by the presence or absence of the ‘at-risk’ variant, and estimated p interaction by fitting models with the main effects of allergy or autoimmune conditions and genotype and an interaction (product) term between them. Four of the five SNPs previously reported by others were statistically significantly associated with increased risk of glioma in our study (rs2736100, rs4295627, rs4977756, and rs6010620); rs498872 was not associated with glioma in our study. Reporting any allergies or AIC was associated with reduced risks of glioma (allergy: adjusted OR = 0.71, 95 % CI 0.55–0.91; AIC: adjusted OR = 0.65, 95 % CI 0.47–0.90). We did not observe differential association between allergic or autoimmune conditions and glioma by genotype, and there were no statistically significant p interactions. Stratified analysis by glioma grade (low and high grade) did not suggest risk differences by disease grade. Our results do not provide evidence that allergies or AIC modulate the association between the four GWAS-identified SNPs examined and risk of glioma.
Data Envelopment Analysis for Managerial Control and Diagnosis

Data envelopment analysis (DEA) is a linear programming-based technique that converts multiple input and output measures into a single comprehensive measure of productive efficiency. This is accomplished via the construction of an empirically based production frontier and by the identification of peer groups. Each unit is evaluated by comparison against a composite unit that is constructed as a convex combination of other units in its peer group. DEA has now been applied in a variety of managerial contexts. In this paper we draw on theories of decision making, measurement and control, the mathematical properties of DEA, prior reported applications, and our own experience, to assess the potential of DEA as a general management tool. We first make the distinction between managerial diagnosis and control. We show how measurement requirements differ for these two managerial decision contexts, and argue that DEA has the potential to provide support in each context. Measurement and decision support criteria for each activity are then developed by reference to the literature on diagnosis and control. Based on its mathematical definition and properties, the relevant attributes of DEA are then derived. The technique is evaluated in each capacity by comparison to the appropriate set of criteria. This evaluation is supported with evidence from our experience with DEA in a large public-sector organization. We argue that the structural properties of DEA, critical managerial choices in its application, and situationally specific factors, interact to determine the strengths and limitations of DEA in each decision context. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
The control of chorion protein synthesis in silkmoths: mRNA production parallels protein synthesis☆

Abstract During a defined developmental period, the follicular cells of silkmoths devote nearly all of their protein synthetic capacity to production of the chorion proteins. In this study we show that synthesis and accumulation of chorion mRNAs as a class correlate with the period of chorion protein synthesis. Prior to the onset of choriogenesis, no newly synthesized mature size 8–10S polyadenylated chorion mRNA is detectable in the cytoplasm, and no translatable chorion mRNA accumulates anywhere in the cell. During choriogenesis, mRNA transcription is sustained. The evidence suggests that mRNA production is an important element in the regulation of choriogenesis, although resolution of the mRNAs is insufficient to test whether the details of choriogenesis are under mRNA control. The synthesis of rRNA in the follicular cells begins much earlier, reaches a maximum with the onset of choriogenesis, and declines precipitously thereafter. Thus, the kinetics of chorion mRNA synthesis and accumulation are unrelated to the rRNA metabolism.
Lipidomic analysis and electron transport chain activities in C57BL/6J mouse brain mitochondria.

The objective of this study was to characterize the lipidome and electron transport chain activities in purified non-synaptic (NS) and synaptic (Syn) mitochondria from C57BL/6J mouse cerebral cortex. Contamination from subcellular membranes, especially myelin, has hindered past attempts to accurately characterize the lipid composition of brain mitochondria. An improved Ficoll and sucrose discontinuous gradient method was employed that yielded highly enriched mitochondrial populations free of myelin contamination. The activities of Complexes I, II, III, and II/III were lower in Syn than in NS mitochondria, while Complexes I/III and IV activities were similar in both populations. Shotgun lipidomics showed that levels of cardiolipin (Ptd2Gro) were lower, whereas levels of ceramide and phosphatidylserine were higher in Syn than in NS mitochondria. Coenzyme Q9 and Q10 was also lower in Syn than in NS mitochondria. Gangliosides, phosphatidic acid, sulfatides, and cerebrosides were undetectable in brain mitochondria. The distribution of Ptd2Gro molecular species was similar in both populations and formed a unique pattern, consisting of seven major molecular species groups, when arranged according to mass to charge ratios. Remodeling involving choline and ethanolamine phosphoglycerides could explain Ptd2Gro heterogeneity. NS and Syn mitochondrial lipidomic heterogeneity could influence energy metabolism, which may contribute to metabolic compartmentation of the brain.
Tantalum augments for Paprosky IIIA defects remain stable at midterm followup.

Background Initial reports with short-term followup of porous tantalum acetabular components and augments for Paprosky IIIA acetabular defects demonstrate high hip scores, low rates of aseptic loosening, and low rates of complications. However, longer-term followup with a larger cohort is needed to determine the durability of these reconstructions.
Some Results of Suboptimal Gust Alleviation

acz = linear acceleration of aircraft center of mass in z direction, fps CLO = lift coefficient at trim angle of attack g = local acceleration due to gravity, fps h = aircraft altitude, ft K! -> K5 = control system gains Lw = gust characteristic length, ft n = —acz/g, normal acceleration factor q = aircraft pitch rate, C/o = aircraft forward velocity, fps wg = gust vertical velocity, fps xyz = aircraft stability axis system ocg = — Wg/U0, angle-of-attack perturbation due to gust, measured at aircraft center of mass, rad 77 = elevator angle, measured from trim, rad Q = spatial frequency, rad/ft (jw = rms vertical gust velocity, fps
Structure and function of the regulatory C-terminal HRDC domain from Deinococcus radiodurans RecQ

RecQ helicases are critical for maintaining genome integrity in organisms ranging from bacteria to humans by participating in a complex network of DNA metabolic pathways. Their diverse cellular functions require specialization and coordination of multiple protein domains that integrate catalytic functions with DNA–protein and protein–protein interactions. The RecQ helicase from Deinococcus radiodurans (DrRecQ) is unusual among RecQ family members in that it has evolved to utilize three ‘Helicase and RNaseD C-terminal’ (HRDC) domains to regulate its activity. In this report, we describe the high-resolution structure of the C-terminal-most HRDC domain of DrRecQ. The structure reveals unusual electrostatic surface features that distinguish it from other HRDC domains. Mutation of individual residues in these regions affects the DNA binding affinity of DrRecQ and its ability to unwind a partial duplex DNA substrate. Taken together, the results suggest the unusual electrostatic surface features of the DrRecQ HRDC domain may be important for inter-domain interactions that regulate structure-specific DNA binding and help direct DrRecQ to specific recombination/repair sites.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Alkyne Trimerization Catalysis of a Heteroleptic Two-Coordinate FeI Complex

The synthesis of the first heteroleptic, two-coordinate FeI complex IPr–Fe–N(SiMe3)DIPP (1) (IPr = 1,3-bis(2,6-diisopropylphenyl)imidazol-2-ylidene; DIPP = 2,6-iPr2–C6H3) is reported. Protonation of the FeII bis(amido) complex Fe[N(SiMe3)DIPP]2 followed by addition of IPr and reduction by potassium graphite in a one-pot reaction results in good yields of 1. The redox activity of 1 and comparison between 1 and its reduction product by 57Fe Mossbauer spectroscopy are discussed, and the reduction was found to be metal-based rather than ligand-based. The activity of 1 toward the catalytic cyclotrimerization of terminal and internal alkynes is described.
Ellipticity and polarization effects in harmonic generation in ionizing neon

We report observations of the ellipticity dependence of harmonic generation in a thin layer of neon gas at an intensity of ${10}^{15}$ W/${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$ and a wavelength of 7540 \AA{}. We observe a markedly different ellipticity dependence and polarization for harmonic energies below and above the ionization potential of neon (21.56 eV). The ellipticity dependence of the higher harmonics can be understood in terms of free-bound transitions of ionizing electrons within the first cycle of the fundamental subsequent to tunnel ionization, while other mechanisms must be invoked to explain the characteristics of the lower harmonics.
Randomized Controlled Trial of Two Methods of Nasal CPAP(NCPAP): Flow Driver Vs Conventional NCPAP

Randomized Controlled Trial of Two Methods of Nasal CPAP(NCPAP): Flow Driver Vs Conventional NCPAP
Evaluation of the Potential Airborne Release of Carbon Nanofibers During the Preparation, Grinding, and Cutting of Epoxy-Based Nanocomposite Material

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health conducted an initial, task-based comparative assessment to determine the potential for release of carbon nanofibers (CNFs) during dry material handling, wet cutting, grinding, and sanding (by machine and hand) of plastic composite material containing CNFs. Using a combination of direct-reading instruments and filter-based air sampling methods for airborne mass and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), concentrations were measured and characterized near sources of particle generation, in the breathing zone of the workers, and in the general work area. Tasks such as surface grinding of composite material and manually transferring dry CNFs produced substantial increases in particle number concentration (range = 20,000–490,000 1-cm−3). Concomitant increases in mass concentration were also associated with most tasks. Nearly 90% of all samples examined via TEM indicated that releases of CNFs do occur and that the potential for exposure exists. These fi...
MULTICOLLINEARITY IN REGRESSION MODELS WITH MULTIPLE DISTANCE MEASURES

. In a polycentric urban context, several urban nodes may exert an influence over land rents. Where this is the case, regression analysis to explain land rents should employ distance variables corresponding to each of the urban nodes. However, these distance measures may be highly intercorrelated, thereby posing a problem of “spatial multicollinearity.” This paper demonstrates that problems arising from spatial multicollinearity can be avoided or substantially lessened by carefully selecting the geographic domain from which observations are drawn.
Kaluza-Klein geometry☆

Abstract We formulate a Kaluza-Klein theory in terms of short exact sequences of vector bundles.
Ethnically diverse pluripotent stem cells for drug development

Genetic variation is an identified factor underlying drug efficacy and toxicity, and adverse drug reactions, such as liver toxicity, are the primary reasons for post-marketing drug failure. Genetic predisposition to toxicity might be detected early in the drug development pipeline by introducing cell-based assays that reflect the genetic and ethnic variation of the expected treatment population. One challenge for this approach is obtaining a collection of suitable cell lines derived from ethnically diverse populations. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) seem ideal for this purpose. They can be obtained from any individual, can be differentiated into multiple relevant cell types, and their self-renewal capability makes it possible to generate large quantities of quality-controlled cell types. Here, we discuss the benefits and challenges of using iPSCs to introduce genetic diversity into the drug development process.
MicroRNA signature in patients with eosinophilic esophagitis, reversibility with glucocorticoids, and assessment as disease biomarkers.

Background The role of microRNAs (miRNAs), a key class of regulators of mRNA expression and translation, in patients with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) has not been explored. Objective We aimed to identify miRNAs dysregulated in patients with EoE and assess the potential of these miRNAs as disease biomarkers. Methods Esophageal miRNA expression was profiled in patients with active EoE and those with glucocorticoid-induced disease remission. Expression profiles were compared with those of healthy control subjects and patients with chronic (noneosinophilic) esophagitis. Expression levels of the top differentially expressed miRNAs from the plasma of patients with active EoE and patients with EoE remission were compared with those of healthy control subjects. Results EoE was associated with 32 differentially regulated miRNAs and was distinguished from noneosinophilic forms of esophagitis. The expression levels of the most upregulated miRNAs (miR-21 and miR-223) and the most downregulated miRNA (miR-375) strongly correlated with esophageal eosinophil levels. Bioinformatic analysis predicted interplay of miR-21 and miR-223 with key roles in the polarization of adaptive immunity and regulation of eosinophilia, and indeed, these miRNAs correlated with key elements of the EoE transcriptome. The differentially expressed miRNAs were largely reversible in patients who responded to glucocorticoid treatment. EoE remission induced a single miRNA (miR-675) likely to be involved in DNA methylation. Plasma analysis of the most upregulated esophageal miRNAs identified miR-146a, miR-146b, and miR-223 as the most differentially expressed miRNAs in the plasma. Conclusions We have identified a marked dysregulated expression of a select group of miRNAs in patients with EoE and defined their reversibility with glucocorticoid treatment and their potential value as invasive and noninvasive biomarkers.
Alterations in the metabolism of choline-containing phospholipids by lithium and carbachol in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells.

Abstract To investigate choline phospholipid metabolism in the human neuroblastoma cell line SH-SY5Y, cultures labeled with [ 14 C-methyl]choline were incubated for up to 30 min in Krebs-Ringer-glucose-N-2-hydroxyethyl-piperazine-N 1 -2-ethane sulfonic acid (HEPES) buffer with or without 10 mmol/L LiCl. When desired, 1 mmol/L of the muscarinic agonist carbamoylcholine was present during the last minute of incubation. When cells were exposed for 10 min to lithium, radioactivity in phosphatidylcholine, lysophosphatidylcholine, and sphingomyelin was 40%–140% higher than in controls incubated in buffer only. This contrasted with the results from carbamoylcholine-containing incubations, which gave radioactivities lower than or equal to controls. Carbamoylcholine added to the LiCl-containing incubations yielded results only minimally different from LiCl alone. Phosphorylcholine radioactivity was also elevated by about 50% after 10 min incubation with LiCl with or without added carbamoylcholine, but was not increased in incubations with the agonist by itself. Similar changes were observed for intracellular choline but after only 5 min. These data suggest that carbamoylcholine does not stimulate phosphatidylcholine degradation, whereas LiCl can significantly affect its metabolism and may affect signal transduction via second messenger in human neuroblastoma cells.
Transgenesis in Xenopus using the Sleeping Beauty transposon system.

Transposon-based integration systems have been widely used for genetic manipulation of invertebrate and plant model systems. In the past decade, these powerful tools have begun to be used in vertebrates for transgenesis, insertional mutagenesis, and gene therapy applications. Sleeping Beauty (SB) is a member of Tc1/mariner class of transposases and is derived from an inactive form of the gene isolated from Atlantic salmon. SB has been used extensively in human cell lines and in whole animal vertebrate model systems such as the mouse, rat, and zebrafish. In this study, we describe the use of SB in the diploid frog Xenopus tropicalis to generate stable transgenic lines. SB transposon transgenes integrate into the X. tropicalis genome by a noncanonical process and are passed through the germline. We compare the activity of SB in this model organism with that of Tol2, a hAT (hobo, Ac1, TAM)-like transposon system. Developmental Dynamics 238:1727–1743, 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The clinical impact of neuropsychiatric manifestations in early systemic lupus erythematosus.

The clinical impact of neuropsychiatric manifestations in early systemic lupus erythematosus