cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Transforming growth factor type β can act as a potent competence factor for AKR-2B cells

Abstract Transforming growth factor type β (TGFβ) is a pleiotropic regulator of cell growth with specific high-affinity cell-surface receptors on a large number of cells; its mechanism of action, however, is poorly defined. In this report, we utilized the mouse fibroblast line AKR-2B to explore the question of the temporal requirements during the cell cycle in regard to both the growth inhibitory and the growth stimulatory action of TGFβ. The results indicate that AKR-2B cells are most sensitive to the inhibitory action of TGFβ during early to mid-G1. In addition, TGFβ need be present only briefly (as little as l min) in order to exert its inhibitory effect on EGF-induced DNA synthesis. Likewise, the stimulatory effect of TGFβ in the absence of EGF requires only an equally brief exposure to TGFβ. Use of homogeneous 125I-labeled TGFβ in a cell-binding assay demonstrates that TGFβ bound to cell-surface receptors can readily exchange into the culture medium T 1 2 = 120 min ), helping to rule out the possibility that persistent receptor-bound TGFβ is the source of a continuous stimulus. The data indicate that TGFβ exposure induces a stable state in the cell ( T 1 2 = 20 h ) similar to but distinct from the state of “competence” induced by platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF).
Nuances and shifts in lesbian women's constructions of STI and HIV vulnerability

Abstract This study examines the subjective side of vulnerability as a social construct rooted in interpersonal relationships and community membership. Analysis is based on a survey of an especially diverse sample of 162 lesbian women, 67 of whom also participated in depth interviews. Another 24 of the original sample also participated in transcribed focus groups. One third were African American, Latina, and Asian, and two thirds were white. This sample reported an overall infection rate of 23%. Three subjective stances, or risk frames, are identified: essentially invulnerable, socially inoculated, and fundamentally vulnerable. Some women describe shifts in their interpretations of their own vulnerability, moving from one stance to another in response to obtaining information, becoming infected, having friends or acquaintances who become infected, and becoming involved with new partners. It is suggested that these shifts comprise a subjective “vulnerability career”. The significance of lesbian women's constructions of vulnerability is examined, and the implications of this study for a better understanding of their risk for STIs are discussed.
Reporting potential conflicts of interest among authors of professional medical societies' guidelines.

Background Limited attention is directed to the potential conflicts of interest (COI) of the authors of practice guidelines writing groups of professional medical societies (PMS) and industry. The objective of this study was to report the proportion of authors with potential COI among guidelines writing groups of PMS. Methods A systematic search in PubMed to identify practice guidelines of a convenience sample of 12 publicly known PMS for a period of 3 years. The authors' disclosures of COI were reviewed for the identified guidelines. Results We identified 126 guidelines, of which 107 (85%) reported authors' disclosures of COI and 19 (15%) did not. With the exception of the US Preventive Services Task Force, all of the reviewed guidelines writing groups of PMS had potential COI to some extent. The maximum percentage of authors with potential COI varied among PMS from 25% to 100%. Conclusions A substantial variation of percentage of authors with potential COI exists among guidelines writing groups of different PMS. Several practice guidelines of PMS fail to include the disclosures of potential COI in their published guidelines. We made several suggestions to promote the transparency of potential COI in clinical practice guidelines.
It's in the Asking: Issue Materiality as a Predictor of Managerial Action

In this paper, we focus on four characteristics of issues to form a new construct, issue materiality, by drawing upon insights from issues management and stakeholder theory literatures. To investig...
Self-assembled surface structures caused by argon ion bombardment of reticulated Vitreous Carbom (RVC)

In this paper, samples of RVC were surface treated under various conditions of argon-ion beam voltage, beam current and duration. Surface treatment duration varied from 3.5 minutes to one hour in length. The resultant self-assembled surface features, observed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), demonstrate improved field emission both by being geometrically-beneficial emission sources as well as because of induced modifications in sp2- and sp3-bonds at the surface.
Maximum Damage Battery Depletion Attack in Mobile Sensor Networks

Developing reliable security measures against outbreaks of malware will facilitate the proliferation of wireless sensing technologies. The first step toward this goal is to investigate potential attack strategies and the extent of damage they can incur. The malware at each infective node may seek to contact more susceptible nodes by amplifying the transmission range and the media scanning rate and thereby accelerate its spread. This may however lead to (a) easier detection of the malware and thus more effective counter-measure by the network, and (b) faster depletion of the battery which may in turn thwart further spread of the infection and/or exploitation of that node. We assume the viewpoint of the malware and cast the problem of dynamically selecting the transmission range and media access rate of the infective nodes as an optimal control problem. We utilize Pontryagin's maximum principle to find an optimum solution, and prove that the maximum damage can be attained using simple three-phase bang-bang strategies.
Failure of endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm graft limbs

Abstract Objective: Endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) grafts are subject to subsequent failure of endograft limbs. We sought to determine what device-related factors could be identified that might contribute to limb failure. Methods: We reviewed the records of patients who had undergone endovascular AAA repair and femorofemoral bypass grafting at a single institution. Results: Endovascular AAA repair was performed in 173 patients. There were 137 bifurcated endografts and 36 aortomonoiliac grafts combined with femorofemoral bypass grafts, yielding a total population of 310 aortic graft limbs and 36 femorofemoral grafts. Thirty-nine additional patients underwent femorofemoral bypass grafting for occlusive disease. The cumulative primary patency of all endografts performed for AAA was 92% at 21 months. Secondary patency was achieved for all failed endograft limbs. There were 24 aortic graft limb "failures" that required intervention: seven limbs underwent thrombosis requiring revision; kinked limbs requiring stenting either at the time of graft placement (17) or subsequently (7) were identified. Fully supported endograft limbs had better primary patency (97% at 18 months) than unsupported limbs (69% at 18 months, P P =.28, not significant). Femorofemoral grafts performed for occlusive disease were found to have somewhat lower patency than those performed for AAA (83% vs 92% at 18 months of follow-up, P =.37, not significant). Conclusions: Fully supported AAA endografts provide superior endograft limb patency compared with unsupported designs. Consideration should be given to routine stenting of all unsupported endograft limbs. Aortomonoiliac grafts and bifurcated grafts provide similar results for endograft limb patency. Femorofemoral bypass grafts performed in conjunction with aortomonoiliac grafts for AAA disease provide excellent short-term patency. (J Vasc Surg 2001;33:296-303.)
Small-Scale Spatial Distribution in Oceanic ZOOPLANKTON1

A Longhurst-Hardy plankton recorder was used near Guadalupe Island (Baja California) to obtain information on the small-scale horizontal patchiness of a number of zooplankton species. On one occasion, a daytime series of 11 horizontal recorder tows was taken forming a grid over an area 500 m square at 90-m depth (total number of samples, 459), On another, a single long nighttime horizontal tow was taken at 20 m (82 samples). A method has been developed to measure spatial structure in terms of patch size and shape, number and distribution of patches in the grid area, concentration of individuals in each patch, and densities of background individuals. The patches were approximately circular with a median patch radius ranging from 13.6 to 15.6 m for the species on the grid and 38.4 to 73.1 m for the night tow, Estimates of the numbers of patches in the grid area ranged from 183 to 22,2. They were distributed randomly, Average densities of individuals in the patches over the grid varied from 2,.6 to 5.1 times the background densities. Although the abundances of different species showed a significant degree of concordance, the relationship between the same species pair on different tows and between different species pairs was quite variable. The degree of aggregation of the less abundant species was associated with their density; the lower the density the less frequently significant departures from a random expectation were o>bserved.
A high gain 107 GHz amplifier in 130 nm CMOS

A systematic method to design high gain amplifiers at frequencies close to the ƒ max of the transistors is introduced. This approach finds the optimum termination conditions to reach the maximum achievable gain of the device. Using this technique in a standard 130 nm CMOS process, we design and implement a 107 GHz amplifier with a gain of 12.5 dB, PAE of 4.4%, and saturated output power of >2.3 dBm, consuming 31 mW from a 0.95 V supply.
Use of Multiple Endpoints and Approval Paths Depicts a Decade of FDA Oncology Drug Approvals

This study explores the historic use of different endpoints to support regular and accelerated approval of cancer drugs between 2002 and 2012. In the past 10 years, two thirds of oncology regular approvals were based on endpoints other than overall survival. More than three quarters of accelerated approvals were based on response rates. The accelerated approval program has been heavily used over this time period, with one third of all approved oncology indications receiving accelerated approval. At times, critics have characterized the agency as rigid and unpredictable. This research describes the degree of regulatory flexibility that U.S. Food and Drug Administration and drug sponsors have used over the past decade in the development of new treatments for cancer.
Simulation of nonuniform irradiance in multijunction IIIV solar cells

Optics for high concentration photovoltaics often delivers a non-uniform irradiance to the cell. This can be a problem for tunnel-junction interconnected (TJIC) IIIV multijunction solar cells if the resulting local photocurrent exceeds the peak tunneling current density. Current spreading in the vicinity of the tunnel junction can mitigate this effect. We use commercial software to simulate current spreading in a simple GaInP/GaInAs cell with a thin GaAs TJIC. We show that for the narrow light beams, the current spreading is fit reasonably well by a Lorentzian with a spreading length on the order of 10 µm. Below some critical irradiance that depends on the width of the light beam, current spreading increases with the local irradiance. At the critical irradiance where the tunnel diode switches to the thermal current state, the current spreading abruptly decreases. Above the critical irradiance the current spreading continues to decrease with increasing irradiance. The effects of other device parameters on current spreading are discussed.
Minimum-redundancy coding for the discrete noiseless channel

This paper gives a method for constructing minimum-redundancy prefix codes for the general discrete noiseless channel without constraints. The costs of code letters need not be equal, and the symbols encoded are not assumed to be equally probable. A solution had previously been given by Huffman [10] in 1952 for the special case in which all code letters are of equal cost. The present development is algebraic. First, structure functions are defined, in terms of which necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of prefix codes may be stated. From these conditions, linear inequalities are derived which may be used to characterize prefix codes. Gomory's integer programming algorithm is then used to construct optimum codes subject to these inequalities; computational experience is presented to demonstrate the practicability of the method. Finally, some additional coding problems are discussed and a problem of classification is treated.
Progesterone augments proliferation induced by epidermal growth factor in a feline mammary adenocarcinoma cell line

Steroid hormones and peptide growth factors promote growth and development of normal mammary tissues and some types of breast cancer. Ovarian steroids may influence mammary growth directly or indirectly. The epidermal growth factor (EGF) family of proteins may also regulate mammary growth. These two pathways may function independently of each other or they may act in concert, with steroids inducing transcription of genes that encode growth factors or growth factor receptors. We used a feline mammary adenocarcinoma cell line (K12) to address whether there was an interrelation between progesterone (PGN) and EGF-associated growth pathways. K12 cells responded to EGF by a dose-dependent increase in proliferation. PGN or promegestone (R5020, a synthetic progestagen) alone did not stimulate K12 growth, but when EGF and PGN, or EGF and R5020 were combined, they were synergistic. This synergistic response was abrogated by the PGN receptor antagonist RU486 or by antibodies that blocked binding of EGF to its receptor. K12 cells expressed characteristic double-affinity EGF receptors, as well as p185 (a functionally and structurally related protein, product of the neu gene) on their surface. PGN receptors were also found on intact cells and in cleared cytosols. Stimulation of K12 cells by PGN or by R5020 induced a two- to threefold increase in the number of high-affinity surface EGF receptors after 24 h. Stimulation of these cells by PGN also affected the relative levels of phosphorylation of the EGF receptor and p185 within minutes, but not of other cellular phosphoproteins. Our results show that PGN enhances the EGF-induced growth of K12 cells and suggest that this effect may be mediated at least partly via an increase in the number or function of high-affinity EGF receptors.
A review of suitable companion crops for black walnut

Black walnut (Juglans nigra L.) is a temperate tree grown for nuts and wood, but it is allelopathic to certain plants and animals. We compiled reports of valuable black walnut companion crops which may be grown in the short term ( 30 years). There are many black walnut companion cropping systems for the short and medium term, but there are few for the long term. Companion crops for black walnut serve multiple functions, including nitrogen fixation, added yields, the development of straight walnut stems, and added protection from forest pests such as deer. Black walnut polyculture is a viable alternative worthy of further development and implementation.
Combining FDTD simulations with measurements of microstrip ring resonators for characterization of low- and high-k dielectrics at microwaves

ference in the periodic structure using the FDTD method and the ray-tracing method is more than 18 dB. CONCLUSION In this letter, we use the FDTD method to see the effect of the inner structure of a wall on indoor propagation prediction. The ray-tracing method cannot deal with nonspecular reflection caused by higher order Floquet modes. A comparison of the FDTD method with the ray-tracing method shows that the FDTD method can give accurate results everywhere in the considered area when the environment is complex, but not too large. REFERENCES
Cryo-electron Tomography of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus: Organization of the Nucleocapsid

Porcine reproductive and respiratory virus (PRRSV) is an enveloped positive-sense RNA virus of the family Arteriviridae that causes severe and persistent disease in pigs worldwide. The PRRSV virion consists of a lipid envelope that contains several envelope proteins surrounding a nucleocapsid core that encapsidates the RNA genome. To provide a better understanding of the structure and assembly of PRRSV, we have carried out cryo-electron microscopy and tomographic reconstruction of virions grown in MARC-145 cells. The virions are pleomorphic, round to egg-shaped particles with an average diameter of 58 nm. The particles display a smooth outer surface with only a few protruding features, presumably corresponding to the envelope protein complexes. The virions contain a double-layered, hollow core with an average diameter of 39 nm, which is separated from the envelope by a 2-3 nm gap. Analysis of the three-dimensional structure suggests that the core is composed of a double-layered chain of nucleocapsid proteins bundled into a hollow ball.
Factors impacting detection of untethered scatterers within viscoelastic background by ARFI Surveillance of Subcutaneous Hemorrhage (ASSH): In silico demonstration

ARFI Surveillance of Subcutaneous Hemorrhage (ASSH) is a method for noninvasively detecting and monitoring subcutaneous bleeding, in vivo. It has been implemented in relevant animal models and in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary catheterization to monitor hemorrhage at sites of vascular injury. In ASSH, regions of hemorrhage are identified by elevated variance in measured ARF-induced tissue acceleration profiles. However, it is well known that increased variance, or ℌjitterℍ, can be caused by a number of factors nonspecific for the presence of hemorrhage, such as low ultrasonic signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) or small tracking kernel size. To explore the sources of jitter in ASSH, a model of low-reflection-amplitude, untethered scatterers (mimicking red blood cells) within a viscoelastic medium under ARF excitation is developed using FEM simulation and Field II. ASSH profiles are generated with a range of system SNR levels, tracking kernel sizes, and untethered scatterer concentrations and displacement magnitudes. The optimal thresholds for detecting the untethered scatterers are determined using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. The results suggest that, given adequate system SNR (≤ 40 dB) and optimal threshold and kernel selection, ASSH can achieve high performance (≤ 0.9 area under the ROC curve) for detecting untethered scatterers.
Thermal stress limitations to laser fire polishing of glasses.

The process of laser fire polishing of optical glasses is shown to work very well for materials with small coefficients of thermal expansion. The surfaces of other glasses crack during laser fire polishing or during cool down from an elevated preheat temperature. An analytical model is described and is used to show that, in materials which cannot be laser fire-polished, the thermal-gradient stress resulting from differential expansion exceeds the yield stress. Successful laser fire polishing of fused quartz and Pyrex glasses is reported.
Bimodal stimulus timing-dependent plasticity in primary auditory cortex is altered after noise exposure with and without tinnitus

Central auditory circuits are influenced by the somatosensory system, a relationship that may underlie tinnitus generation. In the guinea pig dorsal cochlear nucleus (DCN), pairing spinal trigeminal nucleus (Sp5) stimulation with tones at specific intervals and orders facilitated or suppressed subsequent tone-evoked neural responses, reflecting spike timing-dependent plasticity (STDP). Furthermore, after noise-induced tinnitus, bimodal responses in DCN were shifted from Hebbian to anti-Hebbian timing rules with less discrete temporal windows, suggesting a role for bimodal plasticity in tinnitus. Here, we aimed to determine if multisensory STDP principles like those in DCN also exist in primary auditory cortex (A1), and whether they change following noise-induced tinnitus. Tone-evoked and spontaneous neural responses were recorded before and 15 min after bimodal stimulation in which the intervals and orders of auditory-somatosensory stimuli were randomized. Tone-evoked and spontaneous firing rates were influenced by the interval and order of the bimodal stimuli, and in sham-controls Hebbian-like timing rules predominated as was seen in DCN. In noise-exposed animals with and without tinnitus, timing rules shifted away from those found in sham-controls to more anti-Hebbian rules. Only those animals with evidence of tinnitus showed increased spontaneous firing rates, a purported neurophysiological correlate of tinnitus in A1. Together, these findings suggest that bimodal plasticity is also evident in A1 following noise damage and may have implications for tinnitus generation and therapeutic intervention across the central auditory circuit.
Integrating exercise and mindfulness for an emerging conceptual framework: The intuitive approach to prevention and health promotion (IAPHP)

Body image, which predicts increased risk for eating disorders and obesity, has been intricately linked to one’s relationship with food and exercise (Neumark-Sztainer, 2012). This connection should...
The Association of Alanine Aminotransferase in Early Pregnancy with Gestational Diabetes

Abstract Background: Elevated alanine amino transferase, attributed to nonalcoholic fatty liver, is associated with later development of type 2 diabetes mellitus. We sought to determine whether maternal ALT values are associated with subsequent development of gestational diabetes. Methods: We performed a nested case–control study utilizing prospectively banked serum samples collected in early gestation. We excluded women with known diabetes, liver disease, or alcohol use. We included 83 cases of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and 247 controls matched for prepregnancy body–mass index (BMI) and compared ALT values. We then performed a conditional logistic regression to model the adjusted odds of GDM in women with ALT ≥19 U/L, stratified by prepregnancy BMI. Results: The median (interquartile range) ALT in cases was 15 (12, 19) IU/L compared to 13 (11, 18) IU/L in controls (P = 0.07). Among women with a prepregnancy BMI <30 kg/m2, ALT ≥19 U/L was associated with a fourfold increased odds of GDM (adjuste...
Apterous Aphids in Water, Wind, and Suction Traps

During the period 1960-66, a total of 1696 apterous adult aphids were collected in yellow-pan water, wind, and suction traps in Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, South Dakota, Texas, and Wisconsin. The following species were collected: apple grain aphid, Rhopalosiphum fitchii (Sanderson); corn leaf aphid, R. maidis (Fitch); English grain aphid, Macrosiphum avenae (F.); pea aphid, Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris); yellow clover aphid, Therioaphis trifolii (Monell); and Aphis sp. Notable records of the corn leaf aphid in South Dakota included 664 specimens collected in yellow-pan water traps from 20 June to 8 July 1960, and 4 apterae in a propeller trap on 7 May 1966. In Texas, most records were obtained in March. In the other States the apterae were collected throughout the trapping season, with most records in June and July. The recurring presence of apterous aphids in several types of traps at widely scattered locations strongly indicated that the various records represented samples of airborne populations.
AeroMorph as a Morphing Design Tool in an Educational Environment

The standard curriculum at for Aerospace Engineering students the University of Cincinnati includes AEEM361 Integrated Aircraft Engineering. The goal of this course is to instruct students in the tools and methodology of aircraft design. The integrated aspects of aircraft design are underscored by introducing pre-junior students to the state-of-the-art Morphing technology, inspired by bat and bird flight, which can enable an aircraft to adapt its shape to best suit the flight condition thereby enhancing mission performance. In this paper, we present the development of unique software tools which allow undergraduates an opportunity to design airfoils for morphing aircraft. Morphing is introduced in the form of “on demand” camber as well as sweep change with the aim of improving aerodynamic efficiency for a multi-objective (several design points) mission profile. The Global Hawk UAV mission in general and its LRN1015 airfoil in particular is in focus due to the relative long mission times spent at the two different flight conditions, namely high-speed dash and low speed loiter. We are using several tools to virtually simulate a morphing wing including XFOIL to perform fast and relatively accurate two-dimensional steady-flow simulations of different morphed configurations using a camber controlled morphed wing to maneuver. In this paper we detail AEROMORPH, the educational MATLAB based tool developed and discuss the feedback of students who have taken above class and the lessons learned.
Two-dimensional materials: Polyphony in B flat

Early theories suggested the possibility of atomically thin boron layers, but electron-deficient boron favours multicentre bonds and assembles into various polymorphs, making the synthesis of such layers challenging. Now, in two independent experiments, the deposition of atomic boron has offered this long-sought material on a silver platter.
Predictors of 30-Day Hospital Readmission among Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients: A Hospital’s Perspective

Background and objectives Over 35% of patients on maintenance dialysis are readmitted to the hospital within 30 days of hospital discharge. Outpatient dialysis facilities often assume responsibility for readmission prevention. Hospital care and discharge practices may increase readmission risk. We undertook this study to elucidate risk factors identifiable from hospital-derived data for 30-day readmission among patients on hemodialysis. Design, setting, participants, & measurements Data were taken from patients on maintenance hemodialysis discharged from University of North Carolina Hospitals between May of 2008 and June of 2013 who received in-patient hemodialysis during their index hospitalizations. Multivariable logistic regression models with 30-day readmission as the dependent outcome were used to identify readmission risk factors. Models considered variables available at hospital admission and discharge separately. Results Among 349 patients, 112 (32.1%) had a 30-day hospital readmission. The discharge (versus admission) model was more predictive of 30-day readmission. In the discharge model, malignancy comorbid condition (odds ratio [OR], 2.08; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.04 to 3.11), three or more hospitalizations in the prior year (OR, 1.97; 95% CI, 1.06 to 3.64), ≥10 outpatient medications at hospital admission (OR, 1.69; 95% CI, 1.00 to 2.88), catheter vascular access (OR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.01 to 3.65), outpatient dialysis at a nonuniversity–affiliated dialysis facility (OR, 3.59; 95% CI, 2.03 to 6.36), intradialytic hypotension (OR, 3.10; 95% CI, 1.45 to 6.61), weekend discharge day (OR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.01 to 3.31), and serum albumin Conclusions Models containing discharge day data had greater predictive capacity of 30-day readmission than admission models. Identified modifiable readmission risk factors suggest that improved medication education and improved transitions from hospital to community may potentially reduce readmissions. Studies evaluating targeted transition programs among patients on dialysis are needed.
General Solution for Various Infotype Structure Format Creation of Different Conuntry in SAP

When develop global HR module in SAP,question will meet as each country staff data inducts to the identical SAP system,against is questions proposes a solution,including basic design mentality,design flow and main program code,through this solution to induct the personnel data effectivly and fastly.
The pro-oxidant gene p66shc increases nicotine exposure-induced lipotoxic oxidative stress in renal proximal tubule cells

Nicotine (NIC) exposure augments free fatty acid (FFA) deposition and oxidative stress, with a concomitant increase in the expression of the pro-oxidant p66shc. In addition, a decrease in the antioxidant manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) has been observed in the kidneys of mice fed a high‑fat diet. The present study aimed to determine whether the pro‑oxidant p66shc mediates NIC‑dependent increases in renal oxidative stress by augmenting the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and suppressing the FFA‑induced antioxidant response in cultured NRK52E renal proximal tubule cells. Briefly, NRK52E renal proximal tubule cells were treated with 200 µM NIC, 100 µM oleic acid (OA), or a combination of NIC and OA. The expression levels of p66shc and MnSOD were modulated according to genetic methods. ROS production and cell injury, in the form of lactate dehydrogenase release, were subsequently detected. Promoter activity of p66shc and MnSOD, as well as forkhead box (FOXO)‑dependent transcription, was investigated using reporter luciferase assays. The results demonstrated that NIC exacerbated OA‑mediated intracellular ROS production and cell injury through the transcriptional activation of p66shc. NIC also suppressed OA‑mediated induction of the antioxidant MnSOD promoter activity through p66shc‑dependent inactivation of FOXO activity. Overexpression of p66shc and knockdown of MnSOD had the same effect as treatment with NIC on OA‑mediated lipotoxicity. These data may be used to generate a therapeutic means to ameliorate renal lipotoxicity in obese smokers.
Existing evidence is insufficient to justify metformin or other agents as first-line therapy for type 2 diabetes

Commentary on: Palmer SC, Mavridis D, Nicolucci A, et al. Comparison of clinical outcomes and adverse events associated with glucose-lowering drugs in patients with type 2 diabetes: a meta-analysis. JAMA 2016;316:313–324[OpenUrl][1][CrossRef][2][PubMed][3]. A broad consensus supports the use of metformin as first-line therapy for patients with type 2 diabetes. Clinicians and patients, however, may be interested in using newer antihyperglycaemic drugs as first-line treatment, but their relative advantages to metformin—beyond burden of treatment and hypoglycaemic potential—remain uncertain. The systematic review by Palmer et al sought to evaluate the relative efficacy and safety of glucose-lowering drugs in patients with type 2 diabetes. A systematic review was conducted of randomised trials testing any drug class for >24 weeks, used alone or in combination to achieve glycaemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes. The primary outcome was cardiovascular mortality. Secondary end points … [1]: {openurl}?query=rft.jtitle%253DJAMA%26rft.volume%253D316%26rft.spage%253D313%26rft_id%253Dinfo%253Adoi%252F10.1001%252Fjama.2016.9400%26rft_id%253Dinfo%253Apmid%252F27434443%26rft.genre%253Darticle%26rft_val_fmt%253Dinfo%253Aofi%252Ffmt%253Akev%253Amtx%253Ajournal%26ctx_ver%253DZ39.88-2004%26url_ver%253DZ39.88-2004%26url_ctx_fmt%253Dinfo%253Aofi%252Ffmt%253Akev%253Amtx%253Actx [2]: /lookup/external-ref?access_num=10.1001/jama.2016.9400&link_type=DOI [3]: /lookup/external-ref?access_num=27434443&link_type=MED&atom=%2Febmed%2F21%2F6%2F224.atom
An experimental and theoretical study of two-dimensional traveling waves in plates:

The present work explores the generation of two-dimensional steady-state flexural waves that are non-reflective on a thin rectangular plate with free boundary conditions when excited by two macro-f...
The impact of magnetocaloric properties on refrigeration performance and machine design

Abstract First-order phase transition magnetocaloric materials in multi-stage regenerators are attractive for magnetocaloric refrigeration because of their relatively high available power and the potential for the use of low-cost elements such as iron in their production. In this work a model is used to represent the thermodynamic properties of magnetocaloric materials allowing the magnetocaloric materials to be fully parameterized for the first time. A numerical model is used to carry out a large study including the material parameters and the parameters that describe magnetocaloric machines and their operation. A unique method of evaluating material refrigeration capacity is introduced and used to normalize material inputs. The results are analyzed both in terms of the direct impact of the material parameters and the interactions between machine and material parameters on performance. It was found that machine cooling power was maximized for the cases with the largest adiabatic temperature changes. It was also found that many machine parameters and material parameters interact when determining the performance of a machine. This suggests that materials and machine research would benefit from a closer collaboration.
Key Managerial Accounting Skills for Lodging Industry Managers: The Third Phase of a Repeated Cross-Sectional Study

This study is the third phase of a repeated cross-sectional study that explores the current rankings of important accounting skills to lodging managers and the changes in the importance of accounti...
Longitudinal change in foot posture in children with cerebral palsy.

AbstractPurposeFoot deformities are common in children with cerebral palsy (CP), yet the evolution of such deformities is not well documented. We aimed to observe and analyse changes in foot posture during growth in children with CP.Methods We followed 51 children (16 unilateral, 35 bilateral; 37 Gross Motor Function Classification Scale (GMFCS) I/II, 14 III/IV) aged two to 12 years in this level II, IRB-approved prospective longitudinal study. Data after bony foot corrections were excluded. Outcome measures included coronal plane pressure index (CPPI) and pressure impulses from the heel, medial midfoot and medial forefoot. Data were LOESS smoothed and resulting models were compared for significant differences across time using a derived FANOVA method.ResultsThe GMFCS I/II group had more foot valgus than typically developing (TD) children until seven years which normalised thereafter. From two to 12 years, GMFCS III/IV children had more foot valgus than TD children. Heel impulse was significantly reduced ...
Understanding the Complex Processes Underlying Well-Being of Rural Households

An analysis of rural livelihoods is carried out to understand the micro- and macro-level processes that shape the well-being of rural households during urbanization. The analysis is based on quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews and field observations across eight villages around Poyang Lake. I examine rural households’ livelihoods against the broad development background in China, and within their local environmental contexts, which also define their exposure to flood hazards. While urbanization has a positive effect on reducing the sensitivity of rural livelihoods to flooding, a variety of constraints, including some institutional factors and macro-level processes, confront rural households in developing viable livelihoods. I discuss how development programs and policy may simultaneously promote rural development and mitigate flood impacts in the Poyang Lake area.
Success and Luck: Good Fortune and the Myth of Meritocracy by Robert H. Frank: (2016). Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press

Frank, a self-proclaimed non-celebrity, despite his professorship at Cornell and his op-ed columns in The New York Times, has penned a wonderfully accessible and informative book that obliquely cri...
An overview of the Concept of Narcissism

Some meanings existing in the social science and psychiatric literature are integrated, and some current controversial thinking is clarified
Perturbation based sparse subspace clustering

Many application areas including signal and image processing, computer vision, radar and remote sensing, bioinformatics deal with high dimensional data of various types. In these applications, the high dimensional data is not generally distributed over the whole signal space; rather it lives in the union of low dimensional subspaces. Hence, classical clustering techniques depending data distributions in centroids are not successful, and techniques that facilities the low dimensional subspace structure of big data are required. Sparse subspace clustering (SSC) technique that relies on the self-expressiveness of the data is shown to provably handle the data under noiseless case for independent and disjoint subspaces. Self-expressiveness means that each data point in a union of subspaces can be efficiently represented as a linear or affine combination of data points in the set. SSC implementation involves solving an L1 minimization problem for each data point in the space and applying spectral clustering to the affinity matrix constructed by the obtained coefficients. Despite good properties, SSC suffers from high computational complexity increasing with data point numbers. In addition, for noisy data self-expressiveness does not apply anymore. This paper proposes to use perturbed orthogonal matching pursuit (POMP) within SSC framework for robust and computationally efficient estimation of the number of subspaces, their dimensions, and the segmentation of the data into each subspace. POMP was shown to be successful in recovering sparse signals under random basis perturbations, which is actually the case in corrupted data clustering. Our initial results for simulated clustering datasets show that the proposed POMP- SSC technique provides both computational efficiency and high clustering performance compared to classical SSC implementation.
Measuring subaqueous progradation of the Wax Lake Delta with a model of flow direction divergence

Abstract. Remotely sensed flow patterns can reveal the location of the subaqueous distal tip of a distributary channel on a prograding river delta. Morphodynamic feedbacks produce distributary channels that become shallower over their final reaches before the unchannelized foreset slopes basinward. The flow direction field over this morphology tends to diverge and then converge, providing a diagnostic signature that can be captured in flow or remote sensing data. A total of 21 measurements from the Wax Lake Delta (WLD) in coastal Louisiana and 317 measurements from numerically simulated deltas show that the transition from divergence to convergence occurs in a distribution that is centered just downstream of the channel tip, on average 132 m in the case of the WLD. These data validate an inverse model for remotely estimating subaqueous channel tip location. We apply this model to 33 images of the WLD between its initiation in 1974 and 2016. We find that six of the primary channels grew at rates of 60–80 m yr −1 , while the remaining channel grew at 116 m yr −1 . We also show that the subaqueous delta planform grew at a constant rate (1.72 km 2 yr −1 ). Subaerial land area initially grew at the same rate but slowed after about 1999. We explain this behavior as a gradual decoupling of channel tip progradation and island aggradation that may be common in maturing deltas.
Mechanisms of Stress-Induced Host Defense Alterations

The initial processing and subsequent physiological response to an aversive situation or environmental cues previously associated with an aversive situation (conditioned stimuli) occurs within the brain. Using experimental models, many of the areas of the brain which respond to a stressor have been identified. The role of neurohormones within the brain and the participation of the sympathetic nervous system in altering immune function is also beginning to be clarified. The primary interest of our research laboratory is to understand the mechanisms which are activated after a subject experiences a stressor and the resultant alteration of immune system function.
Using Dempster-Shafer Structures to Provide Probabilistic Outputs in Fuzzy Systems Modeling

Our interest is in providing a capability to include probabilistic outputs in fuzzy systems modeling. To accomplish this we use Dempster-Shafer belief structures. We first discuss some basic ideas from the Dempster-Shafer theory of evidence. We then describe Mamdani’s paradigm for fuzzy systems modeling which provided the pioneering framework for the many applications of fuzzy logic control. We then show how to use the Dempster-Shafer belief structure to provide machinery for including randomness in the fuzzy systems modeling process. We show how to this can be used to include various types of uncertainties including additive noise in the fuzzy systems modeling process. We next describe the Takagi-Sugeno approach to fuzzy systems modeling. Finally we use the Dempster-Shafer belief structure to enable the inclusion of probabilistic aspects in the output of the Takagi-Sugeno model.
Interpretation of Automated Perimetry for Glaucoma by Neural Network

Results. The glaucoma experts and a trained two-layered network were each correct at approximately 67%. The average sensitivity of this test was 59% for the two glaucoma specialists and 65% for the two-layered network. The corresponding specificities were 74% and 71% for the specialists and the two-layered network, respectively. The experts and the network were in agreement about 74% of the time, which indicated no significant disagreement between the methods of testing. Feature analysis with a one-layered network determined the most important visual field positions. Conclusions. The authors conclude that a neural network can be taught to be as proficient as a trained reader in interpreting visual fields for glaucoma. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 1994; 35:3362-3373.
Cepheid Temperatures Derived from Energy Distributions

A number of previous studies of the relation between observed colors and temperatures of Cephelds have been done (Kraft 1961; Johnson 1966; Parsons 1971; Bohm-Vitense 1972; Schmidt 1972; Pel 1978). It was the discrepancies between these various temperature scales, especially at the cooler end, that led us to undertake the present recalibration. We felt some improvement on the previous work would result from our access to better scan data, reddening information, and model atmospheres. The results presented here are preliminary, as they represent only a sample of the data we have obtained.
BOUNDARY VALUE PROBLEMS IN PLASTICITY

The distinctive features of plasticity boundary value problems are discussed. Detailed solutions are given for a three-bar truss and a circular plate to illustrate elastic effects, strain hardening, and geometrical changes. Problems in limit analysis of rotationally symmetric shells under distributed and concentrated loads are considered. The paper closes with an indication of some fruitful directions for future research.
Human Host Range Restriction of the Vaccinia Virus C7/K1 Double Deletion Mutant Is Mediated by an Atypical Mode of Translation Inhibition.

Replication of vaccinia virus in human cells depends on the viral C7 or K1 protein. A previous human genome-wide short interfering RNA (siRNA) screen with a C7/K1 double deletion mutant revealed SAMD9 as a principal host range restriction factor along with additional candidates, including WDR6 and FTSJ1. To compare their abilities to restrict replication, the cellular genes were individually inactivated by CRISPR/Cas9 mutagenesis. The C7/K1 deletion mutant exhibited enhanced replication in each knockout (KO) cell line but reached wild-type levels only in SAMD9 KO cells. SAMD9 was not depleted in either WDR6 or FTSJ1 KO cells, suggesting less efficient alternative rescue mechanisms. Using the SAMD9 KO cells as controls, we verified a specific block in host and viral intermediate and late protein synthesis in HeLa cells and demonstrated that the inhibition could be triggered by events preceding viral DNA replication. Inhibition of cap-dependent and -independent protein synthesis occurred primarily at the translational level, as supported by DNA and mRNA transfection experiments. Concurrent with collapse of polyribosomes, viral mRNA was predominantly in 80S and lighter ribonucleoprotein fractions. We confirmed the accumulation of cytoplasmic granules in HeLa cells infected with the C7/K1 deletion mutant and further showed that viral mRNA was sequestered with SAMD9. RNA granules were still detected in G3BP KO U2OS cells, which remained nonpermissive for the C7/K1 deletion mutant. Inhibition of cap-dependent and internal ribosome entry site-mediated translation, sequestration of viral mRNA, and failure of PKR, RNase L, or G3BP KO cells to restore protein synthesis support an unusual mechanism of host restriction. IMPORTANCE A dynamic relationship exists between viruses and their hosts in which each ostensibly attempts to exploit the other’s vulnerabilities. A window is opened into the established condition, which evolved over millennia, if loss-of-function mutations occur in either the virus or host. Thus, the inability of viral host range mutants to replicate in specific cells can be overcome by identifying and inactivating the opposing cellular gene. Here, we investigated a C7/K1 host range mutant of vaccinia virus in which the cellular gene SAMD9 serves as the principal host restriction factor. Host restriction was triggered early in infection and manifested as a block in translation of viral mRNAs. Features of the block include inhibition of cap-dependent and internal ribosome entry site-mediated translation, sequestration of viral RNA, and inability to overcome the inhibition by inactivation of protein kinase R, ribonuclease L, or G3 binding proteins, suggesting a novel mechanism of host restriction.
Clowns: Trauma and Survival

In this chapter, the sequel to Joyriders is analyzed by looking at the way Reid presents a literary engagement with the effects of trauma on young people. This play is a fascinating exploration of the way trauma can manifest for survival and need for communalization of that trauma in order to move on. The production analysis looks at the one production of the play at the Orange Tree Theatre in Richmond.
The effect of water immersion and acute hypercapnia on ventilatory sensitivity and cerebrovascular reactivity.

The partial pressure of end tidal carbon dioxide (PETCO 2), ventilatory sensitivity to CO 2, and cerebral perfusion are augmented during thermoneutral head out water immersion (HOWI). We tested the hypotheses that HOWI and acute hypercapnia augments minute ventilation, ventilatory sensitivity to CO 2, cerebral perfusion, and cerebrovascular reactivity to CO 2. Twelve subjects (age: 24 ± 3 years, BMI: 25.3 ± 2.9 kg/m2, 6 women) participated in two experimental visits: a HOWI visit (HOWI) and a matched hypercapnia visit (Dry + CO 2). A rebreathing test was conducted at baseline, 10, 30, 60 min, and post HOWI and Dry + CO 2. PETCO 2, minute ventilation, expired gases, blood pressure, heart rate, and middle cerebral artery blood velocity were recorded continuously. PETCO 2 increased throughout HOWI (baseline: 42 ± 2 mmHg; maximum at 10 min: 44 ± 2 mmHg, P ≤ 0.013) and Dry + CO 2 (baseline: 42 ± 2 mmHg; maximum at 10 min: 44 ± 2 mmHg, P ≤ 0.013) and was matched between conditions (condition main effect: P = 0.494). Minute ventilation was lower during HOWI versus Dry + CO 2 (maximum difference at 60 min: 13.2 ± 1.9 vs. 16.2 ± 2.7 L/min, P < 0.001). Ventilatory sensitivity to CO 2 and middle cerebral artery blood velocity were greater during HOWI versus Dry + CO 2 (maximum difference at 10 min: 2.60 ± 1.09 vs. 2.20 ± 1.05 L/min/mmHg, P < 0.001, and 63 ± 18 vs. 53 ± 14 cm/sec, P < 0.001 respectively). Cerebrovascular reactivity to CO 2 decreased throughout HOWI and Dry + CO 2 and was not different between conditions (condition main effect: P = 0.777). These data indicate that acute hypercapnia, matched to what occurs during HOWI, augments minute ventilation but not ventilatory sensitivity to CO 2 or middle cerebral artery blood velocity despite an attenuated cerebrovascular reactivity to CO 2.