cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On Column-Row Matrix Approximations

This article discusses column-row factorizations of low-rank matrices, and extensions of these to approximations of full rank matrices. We give perturbation estimates for CUR decompositions, and provide some numerical illustrations of the practical aspects of these approximations.
Abstract B68: Pre-existing immune memory to cancer-associated phosphopeptides in healthy donors

Identifying appropriate antigens is essential to developing effective cancer vaccines. Protein phosphorylation plays a major role in signal transduction pathways that are dysregulated and contribute to the malignant phenotype of cancer cells. Our lab has shown that phosphopeptides derived from these proteins can be presented by major histocompatibility complex Class-I molecules and represent a new class of cancer-associated neoantigens. We previously reported that healthy donors without evident prior cancer had unusually robust CD8 T-cell responses to a cohort of HLA-B7+ leukemia-associated phosphopeptides, suggesting that they might be due to pre-existing phosphopeptide specific memory T cells. To test this, we evaluated CD8+CD45RO+ memory T cells purified from the blood of healthy donors. These cells showed robust responses to 2-25% of HLA-A2+ and 0-23% of HLA-B7+ cancer-associated phosphopeptides. This demonstrates that healthy individuals with no evident cancer history have pre-existing immune memory to some cancer-associated phosphopeptides. We identified 3 “immunodominant” HLA-A2 associated phosphopeptides, in that memory responses were evident to them in the majority of analyzed donors. Such immunodominance suggests that these phosphopeptides result from signaling processes that occur commonly in transformation- or viral infection-related processes. In contrast, immunodominant phosphopeptides were not evident in the context of HLA-B7. While 2 donors showed pre-existing immune memory to a large number of shared targets, other donors showed memory to only small numbers of nonoverlapping phosphopeptides. This suggests that the mechanisms driving expression of these phosphopeptide antigens among healthy donors are much less common. We also found that responses to some phosphopeptides could be detected directly ex vivo. In some cases, the phosphopeptide targets of these ex vivo responses did not stimulate responses after 2 weeks in culture. These results suggest that some phosphopeptides in some donors may be the targets of ongoing immune responses composed of effector or effector memory cells that do not persist long-term in culture. These results provide evidence of regular, ongoing immune surveillance in healthy individuals to cancer-associated phosphopeptides. Citation Format: Amanda M. Lulu, Kara L. Cummings, Victor H. Engelhard. Pre-existing immune memory to cancer-associated phosphopeptides in healthy donors [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy; 2018 Nov 27-30; Miami Beach, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Immunol Res 2020;8(4 Suppl):Abstract nr B68.
10 – Polymeric Biomaterials

Publisher Summary This chapter provides a brief overview of several medical applications that polymers have made seminal contributions to over the years. Currently, with the rapid growth in modern biology and the collaborative effort, cross-disciplines such as materials science, engineering, chemistry, biology, and medicine, polymeric biomaterials are now being fashioned into bioactive, biomimetic, and most importantly, with excellent biocompatibility. Examples of this newer generation of polymeric biomaterials are also included in this chapter. Applications of biomaterials in ophthalmology include contact lenses, intraocular lenses (IOLs), artificial orbital walls, artificial corneas, artificial lacrimal ducts, glaucoma filtration implants, viscoelastic replacements, drug delivery systems, scleral buckles, retinal tacks and adhesives, and ocular endotamponades. The first generation of polymeric contact lenses was made of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), a polymer commercially known as Plexiglas and is a classical example of hard or rigid lens material. PMMA can be prepared using bulk free-radical polymerization and lathed into lens shape. IOLs are commonly used to replace natural lenses and provide clear optical imaging for patients undergoing cataract surgery. The most widely used foldable IOL, AcrySof, is fabricated from a copolymer of phenylethyl acrylate and phenylethyl methacrylate with a crosslinking reagent and a UV-absorbing chromophore. Polymers have made significant impact on biomedical research and medical practice, and will continue to be the major workforce for biomaterials in the twenty-first century.
Applications of Algebraic Geometry to Systems Theory

Basic theorems of algebraic geometry are applied to prove some pole-placement theorems, including an improved version of pole placement with output feedback. Examples are given which show the limitations of the algebro-geometric theorems and their potential value for systems theory. This paper and those to follow might contribute towards making the powerful theorems of modern algebraic geometry accessible and applicable to problems of engineering.
The Effect of Patient Characteristics and Comorbidities on the Rate of Revision Rotator Cuff Repair

Purpose To describe the national rates of failed primary rotator cuff repair (RCR) requiring revision repair, using numerous patient characteristics previously defined in orthopaedic literature, including smoking history, diabetes mellitus (DM), hyperlipidemia (HLD), vitamin D deficiency, and osteoporosis to determine which factors independently affect the success of primary RCR. Methods A combined public and private national insurance database was searched from 2007 to 2016 for all patients who underwent RCR. Current Procedural Terminology codes were used to identify RCRs. Laterality modifiers for the primary surgery were used to identify subsequent revision RCRs. All patients who did not have a linked laterality modifier for the RCR Current Procedural Terminology code were excluded from the study. Basic demographics were recorded. International Classification of Diseases Ninth Revision codes were used to identify patient characteristics including Charlson Comorbidity Index, smoking status, DM, obesity, HLD, vitamin D deficiency, and osteoporosis. Patient age categorized as Results Included in the study were 41,467 patients (41,844 shoulders, 52.7% male patients) who underwent primary arthroscopic RCR. Of all arthroscopic RCRs, 3072 patients (3463 shoulders, 53.5% male patients) underwent revision RCR (8.38%). In both primary and revision RCR, patients age 60 to 69 years were most prevalent, accounting for 38.4% and 37.6% of the cohorts, respectively. The average time from primary RCR to revision was 414.9 days (median 214.0 days). Increasing age and male sex (odds ratio [OR] 1.10, P = .019, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02-1.19) were significantly predictive of revision RCR. Of the remaining patient characteristics, smoking most strongly predicted revision RCR (OR 1.36, P Conclusions Smoking, obesity, vitamin D deficiency, and HLD are shown to be independent risk factors for failure of primary RCR requiring revision RCR. However, despite the suggestions of previous studies, DM, osteoporosis, and overall comorbidity burden did not demonstrate independent associations in this study. Level of Evidence IV, Case Series
Survey of Rehabilitation Clinicians in the United States: Barriers and Critical Use-Cases for mRehab Adoption

This paper presents data and analysis from survey research conducted by the Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Information and Communications Technology Access for Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Access for Community Living, Health and Function (LiveWell RERC) on the perceptions and attitudes of clinical professionals in rehabilitation medicine regarding mobile health (mHealth) and mobile rehabilitation (mRehab) practices, techniques and technology in the United States. The analytical focus of this paper is on two key survey questions related to specific barriers and opportunities (most critical use-cases) for adopting mHealth/mRehab interventions. We present response data to these two questions segmented by clinical specialty – physical, occupational, speech and recreation therapy – to identify possible variation between and among these rehabilitation professions. This analysis provides a detailed map of the terrain of clinician expectations and experiences for the adoption and implementation of mHealth/mRehab interventions in the United States, and possibly other countries. Results show substantial support for mRehab interventions and technologies across all four clinical specialties. The most frequently identified barriers to effective use of mobile and internet technologies to support patients remotely focused on patients (ability to learn and use the technology, and internet access), not clinicians. The was more variability among clinical specializations regarding best use-cases. Tracking patient adherence to prescribed activities and supporting patients in the home and community were the most frequently cited best use cases across the whole sample.
On-Farm Evaluations of Anaerobic Soil Disinfestation and Grafting for Management of a Widespread Soilborne Disease Complex in Protected Culture Tomato Production

Tomato production in Ohio protected culture systems is hindered by a soilborne disease complex consisting of corky root rot (Pyrenochaeta lycopersici), black dot root rot (Colletotrichum coccodes),...
Reinforcement learning of occupant behavior model for cross-building transfer learning to various HVAC control systems

Abstract Occupant behavior plays an important role in the evaluation of building performance. However, many contextual factors, such as occupancy, mechanical system and interior design, have a significant impact on occupant behavior. Most previous studies have built data-driven behavior models, which have limited scalability and generalization capability. Our investigation built a policy-based reinforcement learning (RL) model for the behavior of adjusting the thermostat and clothing level. Occupant behavior was modelled as a Markov decision process (MDP). The action and state space in the MDP contained occupant behavior and various impact parameters. The goal of the occupant behavior was a more comfortable environment, and we modelled the reward for the adjustment action as the absolute difference in the thermal sensation vote (TSV) before and after the action. We used Q-learning to train the RL model in MATLAB and validated the model with collected data. After training, the model predicted the behavior of adjusting the thermostat set point with R2 from 0.75 to 0.8, and the mean absolute error (MAE) was less than 1.1 °C (2 °F) in an office building. This study also transferred the behavior knowledge of the RL model to other office buildings with different HVAC control systems. The transfer learning model predicted the occupant behavior with R2 from 0.73 to 0.8, and the MAE was less than 1.1 °C (2 °F) most of the time. Going from office buildings to residential buildings, the transfer learning model also had an R2 over 0.6. Therefore, the RL model combined with transfer learning was able to predict the building occupant behavior accurately with good scalability, and without the need for data collection.
The morphologic and morphometric characteristics of craters on Ceres and implications for the crust

Abstract The Dawn spacecraft revealed a heavily cratered surface of the dwarf planet Ceres. These impact craters can be used to uncover the target properties of Ceres by analyzing the morphologic and morphometric characteristics. A near-global crater database containing 44,594 craters with diameters (D) ≥ 1.0 km in the latitude range 84.66°S–89.62°N over all longitudes has been developed to further understand the target properties of Ceres. For this purpose, various interior morphologies were classified such as central peaks, central pits, and lobate flows. Central floor pit craters were only observed in the northern hemisphere on Ceres indicating a weaker crustal strength. Investigations into the peak-to-crater diameter ratio (Dpk/Dc) implies the crust of Ceres has strength more similar to rocky Mercury than to Mars which exhibits localized areas of the crust containing large amounts of ice, or the volatile-rich crust of Ganymede. The Dpk/Dc, however, does display regional variations, with the northern hemisphere having a larger Dpk/Dc consistent with a more volatile-rich crust. Analysis of the depth-diameter ratio for fresh impact craters suggesting the simple-to-complex transition diameter (Dsc) of ~10.0 km and the onset diameters for central peaks indicate a Dsc of ~17.0 km. This is higher than expected if Ceres is a purely icy body and lower than expected if Ceres is a completely rocky body. These results indicate that Ceres has a mixed rock/ice composition, as proposed by other studies.
Qualified Immunity (Chapter from Current Issues in Constitutional Litigation)

Qualified Immunity is a sample chapter from Current Issues in Constitutional Litigation: A Context and Practice Casebook (Carolina Academic Press 3d Ed. 2020). The casebook integrates doctrine and skills and uses multiple methods of instruction, implementing ideas in Carnegie Foundation’s Educating Lawyers (2007) and Best Practices for Legal Education (2007). In the casebook, Sarah Ricks, Rutgers Law School - Camden, focuses on the constitutional doctrines necessary to litigate 4th, 8th, and 14th Amendment claims, and the statutory defenses of qualified immunity, absolute immunity, and local government liability. Evelyn Tenenbaum (Albany Law) contributed two chapters, on 1st Amendment religion claims that arise in prison and on the Eleventh Amendment. This sample chapter opens with an overview of the Qualified Immunity doctrine, which protects government officials performing discretionary functions from personal liability for damages as long as their conduct does not violate clearly established rights. Next, the chapter shows how the Supreme Court and federal circuit courts have shaped qualified immunity over thirty years. The chapter excerpts Supreme Court and circuit court decisions, as well as briefs to the Supreme Court, and other documents to identify current thorny issues of litigation and debate. Each excerpt is preceded by questions to model expert legal reading and guide student reading. Throughout, the chapter integrates practical exercises, questions, factual background, and law practice simulations designed for students to explore the roles of litigators, legislators, policy-makers, fact finders, and clients. The chapter culminates in two contextualized simulations, both involving qualified immunity. One is a litigation strategy meeting among plaintiffs' counsel. The other is a settlement conference before a federal appellate mediator.
Exposure misclassification in propensity score-based time-to-event data analysis:

In epidemiology, identifying the effect of exposure variables in relation to a time-to-event outcome is a classical research area of practical importance. Incorporating propensity score in the Cox regression model, as a measure to control for confounding, has certain advantages when outcome is rare. However, in situations involving exposure measured with moderate to substantial error, identifying the exposure effect using propensity score in Cox models remains a challenging yet unresolved problem. In this paper, we propose an estimating equation method to correct for the exposure misclassification-caused bias in the estimation of exposure-outcome associations. We also discuss the asymptotic properties and derive the asymptotic variances of the proposed estimators. We conduct a simulation study to evaluate the performance of the proposed estimators in various settings. As an illustration, we apply our method to correct for the misclassification-caused bias in estimating the association of PM2.5 level with lung cancer mortality using a nationwide prospective cohort, the Nurses' Health Study. The proposed methodology can be applied using our user-friendly R program published online.
The effect of analytical temperature on thromboelastography tracings in dogs.

Viscoelastic testing methods such as thromboelastography (TEG) are becoming increasingly available to veterinarians in a clinical setting. TEG is useful in determining therapeutic transfusion needs...
Spin-transfer torque switching probability of CoFeB/MgO/CoFeB magnetic tunnel junctions beyond macrospin

We present an empirical description of experimental spin-torque switching probability for the CoFeB/MgO/CoFeB type of magnetic tunnel junctions beyond macrospin limit, parametrizing measurement data for direct comparison with the corresponding macrospin asymptote expression. We show that, near 35 nm in diameter, spin-torque switching speed in these tunnel devices is faster than macrospin-limit predictions. These devices have a faster reduction of switching error rate versus spin-torque drive amplitude than macrospin. While the functional form similar to macrospin can still describe experimental data satisfactorily, the parameters no longer correspond to materials values. Instead they reflect the nonuniform nature of the switching process. Further, the parameters depend on the resistance-area product ${r}_{A}$ of the junction, with higher ${r}_{A}$ causing a steeper slope of switching error versus switching current. This ${r}_{A}$ dependence could not originate from low-bias spin-dependent tunneling. These observations suggest that, in addition to nonuniform nonlinear dynamics during switching, it is also important to consider higher-order dynamic processes, including a high-bias tunnel electron's spin-flip scattering, voltage-induced change to interface magnetism, and possibly Joule heating.
Literature Review of Measurements of Personality Traits across Cultures

After more than one century’s exploration from academia, both researches and measurements related to human personality traits have been fully developed with the effort of many researchers. Big Five, as one of the most popular assessments for personality traits, was formed based on the etic approach assuming there should be a universal or generalizable measurement for personality traits across cultures. However, with the increasing impact from different cultures as well as in-depth understanding from researchers, more doubts of etic approach on measuring personality were proposed. Emic approach stressing the significance of specific-cultural method in anthropological research has been accordingly investigated. The following Big Six and Big Seven scales were constructed under this approach. These measurements were already examined to have higher validity and reliability on measuring personality traits when implementing in the relevant group of people. Therefore, this study was supposed to give a literature review summarizing the definition process towards personality traits, the specific content and development of the mentioned measurements using etic and emic approach, the measurement issues based on the relevant researches, and some further considerations for etic and emic approach in assessing personality traits
Inventory to Determine Attitudes of College Women toward Physical Education and Student Services of the Physical Education Department

Abstract This article presents a statistical analysis of an attitude inventory composed of statements regarding physical education and the services offered students by a physical education department. The analysis covers reliability and validity of the 20 attitude statements included in order to measure attitude toward physical education. The statements were found to be reliable and valid. Correlation coefficients of parts of the Inventory other than the attitude statements show significant relationships valuable to teachers and administrators. A copy of the inventory appears at the end of the article.
Fusion Techniques Using Distributed Kalman Filtering for Detecting Changes in Systems

The objective of this paper is to compare the performance of two detecion strategies that are based on different data fusion techniques. The application of the detection strategies is to detect changes in a linear system. One detection strategy involves combining the estimates and eror covariance matrices of distributed Kalman filters, generating a residual from the fused estimates, comparing this residual to a threshold, and making a decision. The other detection strategy involves a distributed decision process in which estimates from distributed Kalman filters are used to generate distributed residuals which are compared locally to a threshold Local decisions are made and these decisions are then fused into a global decision. The relative performance of each of these detection schemes is compared and it is concluded that better performance is achieved when local decisions are made and then fused into a global decision.
The Impact of Surface Coal Mining on Residential Property Values: A Hedonic Price Analysis

The use of certain surface mining techniques is currently a heavily-debated environmental issue and one where consideration of non-market values is likely to lead to the creation of better public policy. This study uses the hedonic pricing method to investigate the impact that surface coal mines have on residential property values. The results of this statistical analysis show that as the number of surface mines and their average production increases, the median value of housing units in a county significantly decreases. In particular, for the three model specifications explored, it is estimated that the addition of a surface mine to the average county decreases aggregate property values by between $7,949,363.77 and $40,146,061.87.
Triethyl 1,2,4‐Triazine‐3,5,6‐tricarboxylate

[74476-38-3] C12H15N3O6 (MW 297.30) InChI = 1S/C12H15N3O6/c1-4-19-10(16)7-8(11(17)20-5-2)14-15-9(13-7)12(18)21-6-3/h4-6H2,1-3H3 InChIKey = YFAAEQALXXIGHJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N (electron-deficient heteroaromatic azadiene capable of participation in inverse electron demand Diels–Alder reactions employed for the preparation of substituted pyridines) Physical Data: bp 168–169 °C/1 mmHg, 173 °C/3 mmHg; n26D = 1.4949. Solubility: sol CHCl3, EtOAc, Et2O; insol H2O. Form Supplied in: viscous, yellow oil. Preparative Method: a solution of ethyl oxalamidrazonate (88 mmol) in absolute EtOH (350 mL) is added dropwise to a stirring solution of diethyl dioxosuccinate (114 mmol) in absolute EtOH (86 mL) at 25 °C under N2. After addition is complete, the stirring is allowed to continue at 25 °C for 16 h before the solution is warmed at reflux for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled and the solvent is removed under reduced pressure. Chromatography (SiO2, 10–40% Et2O–hexane gradient elution) affords the pure reagent.2 Handling, Storage, and Precautions: can be stored at 25 °C but is hygroscopic and reacts with protic solvents; should be stored under anhydrous conditions.
A case of pararenal angiomyolipoma arising from an existing exophytic angiomyolipoma

A 52-year-old healthy woman with a congenital solitary right kidney presented with an incidentally found pararenal mass. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed an exophytic mass in the right kidney consistent with an angiomyolipoma and an additional enhancing pararenal mass that contained fatty elements. Differential diagnosis of the mass included liposarcoma and angiomyolipoma. Upon exploration, the exophytic angiomyolipoma was found to be contiguous with the pararenal mass via an isthmus of fatty tissue. Frozen sections were taken from both masses which confirmed that both were angiomyolipoma. This is the first case reported in the literature wherein an angiomyolipoma extended extrarenally and formed a significantly larger pararenal mass.
Compositional, Structural, and Optical Characterizations of In1-XGaxN Epilayers Grown by High Pressure Chemical Vapor Deposition

The compositional, structural and optical characterizations of In1-xGaxN epilayers grown by high pressure chemical vapor deposition have been carried out using Auger electron spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction and optical transmission spectroscopy. Auger electron spectroscopy revealed 14% gallium and 86% indium composition of the total metal contents in the In1-xGaxN epilayers. X-ray diffraction pattern showed three prominent peaks centered at 31.4?, 32.86? and 34.5? which are assigned to In1-xGaxN (0002), In (101) and GaN (0002) Bragg reflexes respectively. These results indicate no macroscopic observable phase separation in the analyzed In1-xGaxN sample. The optical transmission spectroscopy and the Beer-Lambert’s law quatified the absorption band edge to be 1.6 eV for the analyzed In1-xGaxN epilayers. The Himalayan Physics Vol. 3, No. 3 2012 Page: 6-9
IMPACTS OF 2‐YEAR AND 4‐YEAR COLLEGES ON LEARNING ORIENTATIONS: A PRELIMINARY STUDY

This investigation compared the impacts of 2‐year and 4‐year colleges on learning orientations. Controlling for precollege learning orientations, academic aptitude, age, work, place of residence, a...
Adolescent Sexual Onset: An Intergenerational Analysis

Adolescents have begun to initiate sexual activity at increasingly early ages in the past few decades. Using a sample of 2,494 adolescents from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth (NLSY97), structural and parental process variables were examined in the prediction of sexual onset. Results indicated that the age at which youth initiate sexual intercourse is related to the structural characteristics of their grandmothers and mothers, as well as puberty, gender, and race. There is support for partial mediation of the effects of these grandmother characteristics via mother characteristics and parental process. Results are discussed within the framework of the life course perspective and provide support for the importance of previous generations in the explanation of adolescent sexual behavior. Implications for families and adolescents are also addressed.
Identification of a cystic fibrosis mutation: deletion of isoleucine506.

The recent isolation of the cystic fibrosis (CF) gene has resulted in the identification of a common mutation (AF508) that is found on about 70% of CF chromosomes and that comprises a deletion of 3 bp and results in the omission of Phe508 from within a putative ATP-binding domain of the predicted gene product. We describe a CF mutation that involves the deletion of 3 bp encoding Ile508 or Ile507. This is a rare mutation found in less than 1% of CF chromosomes and could be mistaken for ΔAF508 using the current methods for the molecular diagnosis of CF.
The role of bond orientational order and the nature of the melting transition in an incommensurate physisorbed monolayer : Argon on graphite at completion

A constant-temperature, constant density molecular-dynamics (MD) method is utilized to study the behavior of bond-orientational, translational and thermodynamic parameters in the solid, melting transition and fluid regimes of argon physisorbed onto graphite (Ar/gr) at complete coverage. For Ar/gr, completion occurs near r=1.26 in units of 0.0636 atoms/Au2, where r=1 corresponds to the complete E3×E3 R30 ° commensurate adlayer. Several bondorientational and newly introduced pair-distribution order parameters and e ffective densities prove especially useful in helping evaluate the temperature behavior of the system’s structural order. A broad melting transition accompanied by vacancy formation through large vertical fluctuations in the adsorbate atoms is observed at T m =135 ±5 K, spanning a temperature range of roughly 40 K. The melting transition accompanies a rapid formation of a lowdensity second layer. Substantial bond-orientational order persists into the high-temperature fluid ( T#300 K), which is not hexatic in nature and which exhibits infrequent desorption from the first layer. The behavior and interaction of the neighbor shells are compared and contrasted to those observed in Kr/gr. © 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
A three-channel EEG telemetry system for large animals.

A three-channel telemetering system is described for use in obtaining electroencephalograms from large farm animals and it may be used also for smaller laboratory animals. The system is composed of a three-channel telemetering transmitter, receiverdemodulator, scope monitor, and magnetic audio tape recorder. It has a frequency response of from 0.5 to 100 c/s and a noise level of approximately 5 μV referred to the imput. The channel cross-over is less than one per cent with a 50 μV input and the stabel signal range is a minimum of 300 ft. The transmitter case measures 2×3×6 in3. and weighs approximately 1 lb. It is designed to fit in a leather case which straps under the neck of the larger animals. The physiological data is recorded on magnetic tape for computer analysis and/or transfer to a chart recorder for a visual record.
The Role of microRNAs in Helicobacter pylori Pathogenesis and Gastric Carcinogenesis

Gastric carcinogenesis is a multistep process orchestrated by aberrancies in the genetic and epigenetic regulation of oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. Chronic infection with Helicobacter pylori is the strongest known risk factor for the development of gastric cancer. H. pylori expresses a spectrum of virulence factors that dysregulate host intracellular signaling pathways that lower the threshold for neoplastic transformation. In addition to bacterial determinants, numerous host and environmental factors increase the risk of gastric carcinogenesis. Recent discoveries have shed new light on the involvement of microRNAs (miRNAs) in gastric carcinogenesis. miRNAs represent an abundant class of small, noncoding RNAs involved in global post-transcriptional regulation and, consequently, play an integral role at multiple steps in carcinogenesis, including cell cycle progression, proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and metastasis. Expression levels of miRNAs are frequently altered in malignancies, where they function as either oncogenic miRNAs or tumor suppressor miRNAs. This review focuses on miRNAs dysregulated by H. pylori and potential etiologic roles they play in H. pylori-mediated gastric carcinogenesis.
Modeling invasion risk for coastal marine species utilizing environmental and transport vector data

Invasive species can cause ecological and economic damage and can be transported by several vectors, many of which are connected to socioeconomic activities. This research presents a model that combines introduction likelihood and environmental suitability to characterize global patterns of invasion risk in coastal marine areas by identifying where a species is both likely to arrive and able to survive. The model projects environmental suitability using MaxEnt and considers commercial port locations, as a proxy for commercial shipping, to map patterns of relative invasion risk on a near global scale. A case study of five coastal marine crab species is presented. These models identify several regions that are at risk of new invasion where modeled environmental suitability and introduction likelihood overlap. The distribution of large commercial ports is near global but not evenly distributed; northern hemisphere temperate locations have a higher density of ports and tend to have more opportunities for invasion according to these models. This approach can be adapted to other marine and non-marine species and to current and future environmental and socioeconomic conditions, but it works best when occurrence data are representative of the complete range of conditions under which a species can survive.
Effect of Guided Research Experience on Product Design Performance

Designing, generally, requires a team effort. Consequently, several variables affecting team performance have been studied, such as team composition, female/male ratio in the organization, and teamwork skills training. This study furthers this effort by investigating the effect of guided external research during the concept generation phase of the design process. The premise of the study is that as resources increase in number and complexity, and time constraints pressure an overcrowded curriculum, professors are challenged to find new methods to train students in the skills needed for the constantly changing workplace. One technique to address this issue, a creative collaboration and its impact on design team performance, is discussed in the paper. First, the approach for incorporating guided research into curriculum is explained, and then the results of the study are presented, which indicate that a higher design performance can be achieved when guided research is added to design teaching.
A Simplified Organ Donor Model Produced by Permanent Complete Central Nervous System Ischemia in Dogs

Abstract The physiologic and pathophysiologic changes of the potential organ donor in the brain-dead state are poorly understood. We have developed a canine model of complete brain death by infusing saline into the subdural space and elevating intracranial pressure above systolic arterial pressure. A snare on the inferior vena cave decreased venous return and limited the Cushing response to 1 to 2 minutes. The electroencephalogram became isoelectric as soon as intracranial pressure was elevated and maintained above systolic arterial pressure. The brain-dead state was confirmed by several means. No return of electroencephalogram activity was seen throughout the study. Neurologic examination failed to document any cranial nerve or spinal cord reflexes after the induction of brain death. Pharmacologic challenges failed to document any baroreceptor function or autonomic cardiovascular control in this state. Blood flow to the central nervous system using the microsphere technique was determined at 1 hour post-brain death. The mean calculated flows were not statistically different than zero. The model provides a simple, controlled, consistent, and relatively noninvasive model of complete brain death. It should facilitate the investigation of the mechanisms leading to somatic death in the brain-dead state and ultimately lead to improved clinical supports.
Development of the pyramidal tract in the hamster. II. An electron microscopic study

We undertook a qualitative and quantitative electron microscopic study of the growth and development of the pyramidal tract in the hamster to investigate the mode of growth of the axons, the possibility of fiber degeneration during development, and the process of myelination. By calculating the total fiber number as the product of axon density and tract area for several postnatal ages, we found that the pyramidal tract grows through the medulla as a compact bundle containing nearly twice the number of fibers as the mature tract. During the second postnatal week there is a substantial loss of axons followed in the third and fourth weeks by a more gradual loss such that by 34 days after birth the total number of axons reaches the adult value. Myelination in the hamster pyramidal tract begins at 7 days and continues at a very slow rate until the third postnatal week, when a dramatic increase in myelin formation occurs. By 34 days after birth the number of myelinated axons is approximately 80% that of the adult. as has been reported for other CNS tracts, there does not seem to be a "critical diameter" of an axon that absolutely determines the presence or absence of myelin on a fiber. However, all axons above 0.5 micron in diameter are myelinated at approximately the same rate, while those under this diameter are myelinated much more slowly and even in the adult make up only a small percentage of the total myelinated fibers.
Studies on the biology of the ambrosia beetle Xyleborus dispar (F.) (Coleoptera: Scolytidae)

Behavioral and developmental aspects of field and laboratory reared adults of the ambrosia beetle Xyleborus dispar (F.) with its symbiotic fungus, Ambrosiella hartigii Batra were investigated. Seasonal variations of the fungus within the female beetles mesonotal mycangium, and the synchronization of oocyte development were demonstrated. Oocyte development and oviposition occurred only after the postdiapause female had fed on the ambrosial form of the fungus. These beetles attacked a new host with their intestinal tracts empty. The most important factor for fungal growth was considered to be the quality of the host tissues. The relationship between the number of progeny and the volume of the galleries was linear. Comparisons were made of wild and in vitro populations. Zusammenfassung Zur Biologie des Ambrosia-Kafers, Xyleborus dispar (F.) (Col., Scol.) Es wurden Probleme der Entwicklung und des Verhaltens der Imagines von X. dispar im Zusammenhang mit ihrem symbiontischen Pilz Ambrosiella hartigii Batra im Labor und Freiland untersucht. Hinsichtlich der im weiblichen Kafer lokalisierten Mycetome sowie der Synchronisation zwischen Symbionten- und Oocyten-Entwicklung bestanden saisonale Variationen. Die Entwicklung der Oocyten und die Eiablage fanden erst statt, wenn nach der Postdiapause das Kaferweibchen von der Ambrosialform des Pilzes gefressen hatte. Bohrgange, in denen sich der Ambrosiapilz nicht entwickelte, wurden nicht mit Eiern belegt. In mit Pilz gut bewachsenen Gangen betrug die Eizahl zwischen 6 und 20 pro Gang. Der Mannchen-Anteil des Borkenkafers variierte zwischen 1/2 und 1/8. Als Folge des Ruckgangs des Pilzwachstums wahrend der Larvenfraszeit kam es zur Verringerung der Larven- und Puppengrose. Fur das Pilzwachstum erwies sich die Qualitat des Holzes als wichtigster Faktor. Zwischen der Zahl der Nachkommen pro Weibchen und dem Volumen der Bohrgange bestand eine lineare Beziehung, deren Korrelation 0,69 betrug. Wild- und Invitropopulationen zeigten vergleichbare Vermehrungsraten.
Volcanic investigations of the Puna Ridge, Hawai'i: relations of lava flow morphologies and underlying slopes

Abstract Previous investigators have demonstrated that submarine lava flow morphologies are the result of a complex interplay between lava rheology, effusion rate, and underlying slope. Here, we specifically investigate the relation between underlying slope and submarine lava flow morphology along three study sites of the Puna Ridge, Kilauea Volcano, Hawai′i. Using Electronic Still Camera (ESC) images and detailed bathymetry collected by ARGO-II, we can compare the lava morphology and the associated underlying slope. Our results indicate that rubble is most common on the steepest slopes (≥25°) and that pillowed and lobate flows dominate on slopes ≤20°. Sheet flows were only seen on relatively shallow slopes (≤15°). These observations disagree with the results obtained from previous laboratory analog experiments, suggesting that the laboratory results are directly applicable for lavas emplaced on relatively low (
PULMONARY VASCULAR RESISTANCE: A NOVEL METHOD OF NON-INVASIVE ESTIMATION AND ASSOCIATION WITH MORTALITY IN CRITICALLY ILL SURGICAL PATIENTS

Doppler-derived ratio of peak tricuspid regurgitant velocity (TRV, ms) to the right ventricular outflow tract time velocity integral (TVIRVOT, cm) is a reliable non-invasive method of estimating pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR). The easier to measure left ventricular outflow tract time velocity
Identification of a yeast transcription factor IID subunit, TSG2/TAF48.

The RNA polymerase II general transcription factor TFIID is a complex containing the TATA-binding protein (TBP) and associated factors (TAFs). We have used a mutant allele of the gene encoding yeast TAFII68/61p to analyze its functionin vivo. We provide biochemical and genetic evidence that the C-terminal α-helix of TAFII68/61p is required for its direct interaction with TBP, the stable incorporation of TBP into the TFIID complex, the integrity of the TFIID complex, and the transcription of most genes in vivo. This is the first evidence that a yeast TAFII other than TAFII145/130 interacts with TBP, and the implications of this on the interpretation of data obtained studying TAFIImutants in vivo are discussed. We have identified a high copy suppressor of the TAF68/61 mutation, TSG2, that has sequence similarity to a region of the SAGA subunit Ada1. We demonstrate that it directly interacts with TAFII68/61pin vitro, is a component of TFIID, is required for the stability of the complex in vivo, and is necessary for the transcription of many yeast genes. On the basis of these functions, we propose that Tsg2/TAFII48p is the histone 2A-like dimerization partner for the histone 2B-like TAFII68/61p in the yeast TFIID complex.
Long-Term Incidence and Risk Factors for Recurrent Stones Following Percutaneous Nephrostolithotomy or Percutaneous Nephrostolithotomy/Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy for Infection Related Calculi

A study was done to determine the long-term incidence and cause of recurrent stones following percutaneous nephrostolithotomy alone (13 patients) or combined with extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (31) for management of documented infection related struvite renal calculi. The patients were followed for 12 to 111 months (mean 41.7) to censorship or time of new stone formation. Of these patients 12 (27%) had recurrent stones at 12 to 61 months (mean 32.3) after treatment. As determined by a Kaplan-Meier estimate, the risk of new stone formation 5 years after treatment was 36.8%. Potential risk factors for recurrence, including history of stones, associated anatomical abnormalities, procedure used, radiographic status at completion of treatment and recurrent infection during followup, were analyzed with Cox's proportional hazards model. Of these potential risk factors, only an associated anatomical abnormality was found to influence significantly the rate of recurrent stone formation (p = 0.005). We conclude that continued surveillance for recurrent stones is mandatory even for patients initially rendered stone-free and those who maintain sterile urine. In addition, because the presence of a significant anatomical or functional urinary tract abnormality places a patient at much higher risk for recurrence, we suggest that subsequent studies be stratified as to the presence or absence of these abnormalities.
Unexpected similarity in RBC DHA and AA levels between bottlenose dolphins and humans.

Abstract Background The Omega-3 Index [red blood cell (RBC) content of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)+docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)] is inversely related to risk of cardiovascular disease in humans. In the U.S., the average Omega-3 Index is about 4–6% of RBC fatty acids, whereas in Japan it is 9–10%. The range of physiologically-possible levels for the Omega-3 Index in other mammals is unknown. Objective To compare the RBC fatty acid composition of a common piscivorous mammal, the bottlenose dolphin ( Tursiops truncatus ), with that of (U.S.) humans, and to examine the extent to which dietary fatty acid patterns were reflected in RBCs. Methods RBCs were isolated from routine blood samples collected from 35 healthy dolphins at two display facilities and were analyzed by gas chromatography. For humans, historic, deidentified RBC fatty acid data from our laboratory were used ( n =11,329; mean age 58). Results The mean Omega-3 Index of the dolphins was 19.9% compared with 6.0% for humans. EPA levels were 15.3% vs 1.2%, respectively, but DHA levels were virtually identical (4.6% vs 4.8%). Linoleic acid (LNA) levels were much lower in dolphins vs humans (0.5% vs 12.5%) whereas arachidonic acid (ARA) levels were similar (12.3% vs 14.5%). In a subgroup of humans with an Omega-3 Index in the >99.2 percentile, the mean index was similar to that of the dolphins. Based on an analysis of their food, the dolphins consumed about 60g of EPA+DHA per day as compared to about 0.1g in humans. Conclusion Dolphins have an Omega-3 Index that is (only) 3–4× higher than that of U.S. adults despite their intake of EPA+DHA being about 165× higher (as a percent of kcal). RBC, EPA and LNA levels are relatively more reflective of dietary intakes than are DHA and ARA levels. The mechanisms by which certain fatty acid levels appear to be fixed and others may vary in RBC membranes are unknown.
Cardiac rhythm device surgery with uninterrupted oral anticoagulation.

Evaluation of: Birnie DH, Healey JS, Wells GA et al. Pacemaker or defibrillator surgery without interruption of anticoagulation. N. Engl. J. Med. 368, 2084–2093 (2013). Current guidelines recommend interrupting anticoagulation and bridging therapy with heparin or low-molecular-weight heparin for cardiac rhythm device surgeries in patients with high thrombotic risk. However, there are some studies that suggest continuing warfarin may be safe. The study by Birnie et al. investigates this important clinical question in a randomized controlled trial setting. They randomly assigned 681 patients with high thrombotic risk (5% or more per year), in 18 centers, to receive either stopping warfarin combined with heparin bridging (standard of care) or continued uninterrupted warfarin therapy for cardiac rhythm device surgery. The trial was terminated after a second prespecified interim analysis by the data and safety monitoring board. Clinically significant device-pocket hematoma was noted in 12 out of 343 patients (...
Photolithographic processing of integrated optic devices in glasses

The ability to produce changes in the refractive index of a glass of the order of 0.01 to 0.001 allows a laser beam to be guided through glass. However, to perform the functions required for passive elements demands the formation of highly resolved gradient index patterns. Porous glass impregnated with photosensitive organometallic compounds exhibits optical changes when exposed to light. Changes in transmission and refractive index can be induced and are permanent after consolidation of the glass. Photolithographic techniques for making channel waveguides of the order of 1-10 mm, and more complex optical circuits composed of active and passive components have been developed.
Personal privacy and Internet marketing: An impossible conflict or a marriage made in heaven?

Abstract With the decline of print media and network television, marketing strategy is changing. As these advertising vehicles are slowing down and more individuals turn to the Internet for daily functioning, marketers are following in kind. Technology offers businesses and marketing specialists the ability to collect immense amounts of private data about individuals’ interests or characteristics as they surf the Internet and input personal information. Data collection falls into one of two categories: a user's voluntary sharing of such information, or involuntary/uninformed collection by other parties. The threat posed by invasion of personal privacy is real. At the same time, Internet users can benefit in several ways from the sharing and collection of personal information. For example, much online content is funded by advertising, and would otherwise only be available to consumers for a fee. Additionally, valuable information regarding trends and happenings (e.g., flu outbreaks) are detected by aggregated Internet tracking. Finally, many Internet users value and enjoy targeted advertising geared to their particular interests or needs. Laws regarding this matter are currently limited, but are developing in order to protect individuals from unscrupulous data collection, especially involving children. Fortunately, there are ways marketers can legally and ethically collect and use personal information. Ultimately, regulation needs to be developed, and the marketing profession can aid itself by expanding self-regulation and policing in order to stave off additional—and potentially onerous—regulation.
Prevailing rationales in the corporate social responsibility debate

The literature on corporate responsibility contains a wide range of arguments for business sector involvement in matters of social and political community. Some writers argue for extensive involvement, while others draw relatively narrow boundaries around the appropriate sphere of a company's nonbusiness activity. One way to classify and clarify these various views is to examine each in light of the notion of business-society relationship which underlies it. Four ways of understanding the business-society relationship are articulated here, together with the arguments for corporate responsibility that emerge from them.