cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Dynamic Network Analysis of the 4D Nucleome

Motivation: For many biological systems, it is essential to capture simultaneously the function, structure,and dynamics in order to form a comprehensive understanding of underlying phenomena. The dynamical interaction between 3D genome spatial structure and transcriptional activity creates a genomic signature that we refer to as the four-dimensional organization of the nucleus, or 4D Nucleome (4DN). The study of 4DN requires assessment of genome-wide structure and gene expression as well as development of new approaches for data analysis. Results: We propose a dynamic multilayer network approach to study the co-evolution of form and function in the 4D Nucleome. We model the dynamic biological system as a temporal network with node dynamics,where the network topology is captured by chromosome conformation (Hi-C), and the function of a node is measured by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). Network-based approaches such as von Neumann graph entropy, network centrality, and multilayer network theory are applied to reveal universal patterns of the dynamic genome. Our model integrates knowledge of genome structure and gene expression along with temporal evolution and leads to a description of genome behavior on a system wide level. We illustrate the benefits of our model via a real biological dataset on MYOD1-mediated reprogramming of human fibroblasts into the myogenic lineage. We show that our methods enable better predictions on form-function relationships and refine our understanding on how cell dynamics change during cellular reprogramming
Introduction to Historical and Archaeological Perspectives on Gender Transformations: From Private to Public

This edited volume examines and denaturalizes the “separate-spheres” gender system that historians have identified as persisting at least from the Greek, Roman, and Christian empires into modern times in Western cultures (Anderson and Zinsser 1988: xiii–xiv, 96–99, 144; Matthaei 1982: 29–31; Donovan 2001: 19). It is important to understand the “separate-spheres” ideology, identities, roles, and practices because this gender system is the deepest historical context for this volume. The dualistic ideology posits that men belong in the public sphere while women are innately inclined to engaging in private domestic pursuits (Spencer-Wood 1991a: 237). The association of women with the domestic sphere of housework, mothering, and household activities has been considered a natural extension of women’s biological roles in childbirth and breast feeding. According to the “separate-spheres” ideology, women are genetically engineered to enjoy and excel at caring for the home and mothering children, while men are best at conducting public activities such as agricultural fieldwork, wars, governments, and capitalist businesses (Robertson 1982: 21, 25–28; Matthaei 1982: 110–111). The asymmetrical power dynamics in the “separate-spheres” gender system are addressed in Spencer-Wood’s chapter in this volume.
Preliminary Background Material

This chapter covers several topics that are prerequisite—for the thorough reader—to the rest of the book, but are not really part of the main argument. Hence this chapter could be viewed as a collection of appendices, which may be omitted to begin with and referred to later as needed. On the other hand, for some readers, these fundamental topics will have considerable intrinsic interest.
Diagnosis of pancreatic exocrine insufficiency by fecal chymotrypsin activity

Fourteen control subjects and 9 patients with severe pancreatic exocrine insufficiency were carefully studied to establish normal values of fecal chymotrypsin activity. Mean values for fecal chymotrypsin were uniformly abnormal in patients with pancreatic exocrine insufficiency. This study supports the previous literature in validating this test as a simple but effective method of screening patients with steatorrhea for the diagnosis of pancreatic exocrine insufficiency.
On the move in search of health and care: Circular migration and family conflict amongst older Turkish immigrants in Germany.

Abstract This study focuses on circular migration amongst older Turkish immigrants to investigate two main questions: (1) How do perceived health and available healthcare systems in Turkey and Germany determine the structure of circular migration? (2) How is eldercare shaped by intergenerational conflict and exchange relations amongst older immigrants, their adult children in Germany, and their extended families in Turkey? Through the analysis of 40 in-depth interviews, this study finds that while Turkey offers healthier physical, psychological, and religious options, older circular migrants are more drawn to Germany because they perceive its healthcare system to be superior. Furthermore, contrary to conventional accounts, eldercare has mostly been navigated through intergenerational conflict and exchange relations, instead of family solidarity or traditional filial roles, and these conflicts and exchange principles around eldercare regulate family living arrangements across the two countries. In short, older Turkish immigrants encounter unique challenges in both their home and host countries, which promulgates their circular migration.
Medtronic MiniMed 670G Hybrid Closed-Loop System.

New and improved technologies for the treatment of diabetes continue to emerge at an impressive rate. Recent advancements in insulin delivery and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) have made a particularly meaningful impact on the care and treatment burden of many people living with type 1 diabetes (T1D) (1). One such advancement is the development and approval of the Medtronic MiniMed 670G hybrid closed-loop (670G HCL) system (Medtronic Diabetes, Northridge, Calif.) (2). This brief monograph will highlight key functions of the 670G HCL system and discuss potential advantages and disadvantages of the system. The 670G HCL system was initially approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in September 2017 for use in people with T1D who are ≥14 years of age. In June 2018, the indication for the system was expanded to include people with T1D between the ages of 7 and 13 years (2). The 670G HCL system is composed of the MiniMed 670G insulin pump and the Guardian Sensor 3 CGM package (3). The system can function in two different modes: “auto mode” and “manual mode.” When in auto mode, the system uses an algorithm capable of automatically adjusting basal insulin delivery in response to CGM readings transmitted to the insulin pump every 5 minutes (4,5). While in …
The effect of chalcogen and metal on the electronic properties and stability of metal–chalcogenides clusters, TM 6 X n (PH 3 ) 6 (TM = Mo, Cr, Re, Co, Ni; X = Se, Te; n = 8,5)

We have performed a comparative study of the electronic structure, stability, and magnetic properties of a series of metal–chalcogen clusters stabilized by PH3 ligands. Clusters studied include TM6X8(PH3)6, TM = Cr, Mo, Re, Co, X = Se, Te, and Ni6X(PH3)6, X = Se, and Te. We find that the phosphine ligands act as charge donors, transferring charge to the metal sites, creating an electrostatic effect that lowers the ionization energy. The electronic structure of the cluster also has a significant effect on its charge donor properties, as the Re cluster has a closed electronic shell with a charge state of +2, making it an alkaline earth superatom. The chromium clusters are found to have a series of close lying magnetic isomers. Selenium is a better charge acceptor than tellurium and this causes the telluride clusters to have lower ionization potentials, while the enhanced charge transfer to selenium increases the binding energy of the phosphine ligand.
E-096 Spontaneous spinal extramedullary hemorrhage and the diagnostic yield of spinal angiography

Introduction Spontaneous spinal extramedullary hemorrhage (SSEH) is a rare cause of acute back or radicular pain and, occasionally, spinal cord compression. Numerous etiologies have been implicated including anticoagulation, vasculitis, aneurysms and vascular malformations. However, the cause of many SSEHs is never determined. Diagnostic spinal angiography is often performed in these cases, though the diagnostic yield of this exam has yet to be validated. Methods A retrospective review of a single academic institution’s Neurovascular database spanning from 2011 to 2018 was performed to identify patients with SSEH who underwent spinal angiography following MRI in order to identify the source of hemorrhage. Results Seventy-two patients underwent spinal angiography during the study period. Of these, 9 patients with SSEH were identified. Six female and 2 male patients were aged 29–70 (mean 48 years). One patient was undergoing anticoagulant therapy at the time of hemorrhage, while one patient had a history of systemic lupus erythematosus. All but 1 patient presented with acute symptoms. The most common presenting symptom was acute back pain (n=6) with radicular symptoms (n=4). One patient presented with acute paraplegia, and 1 patient presented only with signs of meningismus. The one patient that presented in a delayed fashion complained of chronic back pain following an acute onset 1 year prior. All patients underwent MRI, which failed to diagnose a source of hemorrhage prior to diagnostic spinal angiography. Five patients had MRI evidence of spinal cord compression. Diagnostic spinal angiography failed to reveal a potential source of SSEH in all but one patient, in which a pseudoaneurysm of uncertain significance was identified in the paraspinal tissue following laminectomy for hematoma evacuation. This patient was treated with coil embolization, though this may have represented an unrelated postoperative finding. Two additional patients underwent decompressive laminectomy with hematoma evacuation, while 6 were managed non-operatively. Hospital duration for the patients presenting acutely ranged from 5–50 days (mean 16.5); disposition following discharge included acute rehab (n=2), subacute rehab (n=2), and home (n=4). Most patients (n=6, 67%) returned to baseline function, 2 patients suffered bilateral lower extremity paralysis, and a single patient experienced mild residual unilateral lower extremity weakness. Conclusion SSEH often occurs without a clear source evident on MRI. In these cases, diagnostic spinal angiography is often performed. However, in our experience, this study has rarely been helpful in demonstrating the etiology of SSEH. Disclosures A. White: None. C. Roark: None. D. Case: None. D. Kumpe: None. J. Seinfeld: 2; C; Medtronic.
Regional variations in longitudinal pulmonary function: A comparison of Hispanic and non‐Hispanic subjects with cystic fibrosis in the United States

Background Hispanic subjects with cystic fibrosis (CF) have increased morbidity and mortality than non-Hispanic white subjects. The ethnic disparity in mortality varies by region. Factors influencing pulmonary function vary by both ethnicity and region. Objective To determine if the ethnic difference in pulmonary function varies by region. Methods This retrospective cohort study compared differences in longitudinal pulmonary function (percent-predicted forced vital capacity [FVC], forced expiratory volume in 1 second [FEV1 ], forced expiratory flow at 25% to 75% [FEF25-75 ], FEV1 /FVC, and FEV1 decline) between Hispanic and non-Hispanic white subjects with CF by Census region of the United States (West, South, Midwest, and Northeast). Subjects were of ages 6 to 25 years and in the CF Foundation Patient Registry from 2008 to 2013. We used linear mixed effects models with subject-specific slopes and intercepts, adjusting for 14 demographic and clinical variables. Results Of 14 932 subjects, 1433 (9.6%) were Hispanic and 13 499 (90.4%) were non-Hispanic white. Hispanic subjects' FEV1 was 9.0% (8.3%-9.8%) lower than non-Hispanic white subjects in the West, while Hispanic subjects' FEV1 was only 4.0% (3.0%-5.0%) lower in the Midwest, 4.4% (3.1%-5.7%) lower in the Northeast, and 4.4% (3.2%-5.5%) lower in the South. Similarly, FVC and FEF25-75 were lower among Hispanic subjects compared to non-Hispanic white subjects in all US regions, with the biggest differences in the West. Only in the West was FEV1 /FVC significantly lower in Hispanic subjects (-0.019; -0.022 to -0.015). FEV1 decline was not significantly different between ethnicities in any region. Conclusions In CF, Hispanic subjects have lower pulmonary function than non-Hispanic white subjects in all geographic regions with the largest difference in occurring in the West.
The Degree of a Map

Consider a system of n equations in m variables, $${f^1}\left( {{x^1},...,{x^m}} \right) = {a^1},...,{f^n}\left( {{x^1},...,{x^m}} \right) = {a^n},$$ (2.1.1) or simply $$f\left( x \right) = a,$$ (2.1.2) where x = (x 1, ... x m ), a = (a l, ... , a n ), and f (x) = (f 1(x), ... , f n (x)). Assume that f 1, ... , f n are smooth functions, or, which is the same, that f : R m → R n is a smooth map. Assume also that $$\mathop {\lim }\limits_{x \to \infty } f\left( x \right) = \infty .$$ (2.1.3)
Required Accuracy of Gaze Tracking for Varifocal Displays

Varifocal displays are a practical method to solve vergence–accommodation conflict in near-eye displays for both virtual and augmented reality, but they are reliant on knowing the user's focal state. One approach for detecting the focal state is to use the link between vergence and accommodation and employ binocular gaze tracking to determine the depth of the fixation point; consequently, the focal depth is also known. In order to ensure the virtual image is in focus, the display must be set to a depth which causes no negative perceptual or physiological effects to the viewer, which indicates error bounds for the calculation of fixation point. I analyze the required gaze tracker accuracy to ensure the display focus is set within the viewer's depth of field, zone of comfort, and zone of clear single binocular vision. My findings indicate that for the median adult using an augmented reality varifocal display, gaze tracking accuracy must be better than 0.541°. In addition, I discuss eye tracking approaches presented in the literature to determine their ability to meet the specified requirements.
Purple Bacteria and 3D Redox Hydrogels for Bioinspired Photo-bioelectrocatalysis

A major challenge for the implementation of intact bacterial cells in photo-bioelectrochemical systems remains the hindered extracellular electron transfer. This study focuses on purple bacteria, photosynthetic microorganisms particularly interesting for the development of bioelectrochemical systems because of their versatile metabolisms. Although soluble monomeric redox mediators have been proven as effective systems for electron transfer mediation, their application in the field is not preferable owing to their toxicity and unwanted release into the environment. An abiotic/biotic photoanode is reported in which a bioinspired redox mediating system is implemented in a 3D geometry allowing to "electrically wire" intact bacterial cells. The 3D photoanode decreased the overpotential required for harvesting photoexcited electrons, operating at +0.073 V versus the saturated calomel electrode (SCE). Accordingly, the overpotential was significantly reduced compared with a pioneering Os-redox polymer reported in literature, which required operation at +0.303 V versus SCE. These results provide the basis for further development of bio-photoanodes for light-powered biosensing and power generation.
The Influence of Thermal Processing on the Sorption of Cs and Sr by Sitinakite

Abstract The remediation of radioactive isotopes such as Cs+ and Sr2+ from water has been evaluated using sitinakites. The sorption media employed in the remediation of radioactive wastes must have thermal and chemical stability to be useful. The present study investigates the structural stability and adsorption performance of sitinakites under conditions of elevated temperatures between 50 and 550 °C. X-ray diffraction indicates that major structural changes are initiated with heating, reducing the crystallinity of the material. The FTIR results also indicate that simultaneous and irreversible dehydration of the materials occurs with elevated temperatures under the conditions studied. Thermal processing also influences the sorption of Cs+, which decreases rapidly as the temperature increases. Adsorption was reduced by 80% at 550 °C for Cs+, when compared to the material processed at 50 °C and neutral pH. In contrast, the sorption of Sr2+ decreases substantially only when the processing temperature reaches 550 °C under the same conditions. In addition, the sorption of Cs+ and Sr2+ follow different trends as functions of pH after thermal treatment. The sorption of Cs+ decreases as a function of increased processing temperature and higher alkalinity. In contrast, the sorption of Sr2+ decreases with thermal processing; however, overall Sr2+ sorption increases as the pH becomes more alkaline. The sorption differences suggest that Cs+ uptake is structurally driven, while Sr2+ sorption is influenced by both the structure and the surface electrostatics of the material. These results suggest the effectiveness of the materials may be compromised due to changes in structure, hydration, and electrostatic interactions that occur when exposed to elevated temperatures.
An Information-Based Approach for Mediation Analysis on High-Dimensional Metagenomic Data

The human microbiome plays a critical role in the development of gut-related illnesses such as inflammatory bowel disease and clinical pouchitis. A mediation model can be used to describe the interaction between host gene expression, the gut microbiome, and clinical/health situation (e.g., diseased or not, inflammation level) and may provide insights into underlying disease mechanisms. Current mediation regression methodology cannot adequately model high-dimensional exposures and mediators or mixed data types. Additionally, regression based mediation models require some assumptions for the model parameters, and the relationships are usually assumed to be linear and additive. With the microbiome being the mediators, these assumptions are violated. We propose two novel nonparametric procedures utilizing information theory to detect significant mediation effects with high-dimensional exposures and mediators and varying data types while avoiding standard regression assumptions. Compared with available methods through comprehensive simulation studies, the proposed method shows higher power and lower error. The innovative method is applied to clinical pouchitis data as well and interesting results are obtained.
Investigating the role of negative and positive emotional avoidance in the relation between generalized anxiety disorder and depression symptom severity

Abstract Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), a chronic disorder characterized by excessive and difficult-to-control worry, has been shown to be associated with heightened risk for depression. However, despite the high rate of co-occurrence between GAD and depression, few studies have examined factors that might account for this comorbidity. Contemporary models of GAD suggest that the avoidance of positive- and negative-valenced emotions may be particularly worthwhile to investigate in this regard. Therefore, this study examined the extent with which positive and negative emotional avoidance explain the relationship between GAD and depression symptom severity. Participants were adults (N = 114) seeking treatment at an anxiety disorders clinic. Upon intake into the clinic, participants completed a variety of self-report measures assessing the constructs of interest in this study. Results revealed that GAD severity was associated with depression symptom severity through the avoidance of positive emotion, but not via negative emotional avoidance. Specifically, greater GAD severity was associated with greater positive emotional avoidance which, in turn, was associated with greater depression symptom severity. Consistent with the contrast avoidance model of GAD, findings suggest positive emotions may be avoided in an effort to maintain homeostasis and prevent negative emotional contrasts, which may increase the likelihood of depressive symptoms.
The positive affect, promoting Positive Engagement, and Adherence for Life (APPEAL) feasibility trial: Design and rationale.

OBJECTIVE To describe development of the Positive Affect, Promoting Positive Engagement, and Adherence for Life (APPEAL) program. METHOD APPEAL is intended to increase HIV medication adherence through promotion of positive affect, and was developed through an iterative process involving 6 focus groups (N = 34) that elicited feedback on intervention content, followed by an individually administered prepilot of the entire intervention (N = 7). RESULTS Participants provided feedback on important potential moderator variables, including depression, on mode of intervention administration, and on anticipated barriers and benefits to participation. Insights gained were used to finalize study procedures in preparation for a feasibility trial. For the feasibility trial, a total of 80 participants who, in the past 6 months have had at least one plasma HIV RNA >200 copies/mL, will be randomized to receive APPEAL or standard of care (N = 40 per group). Intervention group participants will receive 3 monthly, individually administered sessions, and all participants will have their medication adherence monitored and complete structured interviews at baseline and at 3 and 6 months. CONCLUSION The APPEAL program is innovative in that it focuses on promoting self-regulation of positive emotions, an understudied approach to promoting chronic disease self-management behaviors such as HIV medication adherence. Findings from the feasibility trial will gauge suitability of the APPEAL intervention and evaluation methods for subsequent testing in a confirmatory trial and will examine changes in positive affect, the primary mechanism of change targeted in the intervention. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).
Epidemiological Survey of the Impact of COVID-19 on Telemedicine in the Practice of Foot and Ankle Surgery in the United States

Abstract In response to loosened telehealth regulations and local restrictions on elective procedures during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, telemedicine use has dramatically increased. The goal of this study was to analyze patterns in telemedicine use among podiatric physicians during the COVID-19 crisis on a national level. Anonymous responses to a survey of practice metrics as well as subjective impressions of telemedicine efficacy were collected from 246 respondents, representing >1% of practicing podiatrists in the United States. Linear regression was performed to identify variables associated with COVID-19 prevalence and variables associated with higher self-reported likelihood of offering telemedicine visits post-COVID-19. Physicians in areas of lower COVID-19 prevalence were found to dispense durable medical equipment more frequently in-office and conduct more post-op telemedicine visits, with fewer visits for infections and trauma. Podiatrists in these regions also rated telemedicine more effective for medical and musculoskeletal pathologies. Additionally, fewer of their practices had modified office hours, and more of them advertised telemedicine services. Physicians more likely to offer telemedicine post-COVID-19 had significantly higher new patient volume and increased acuity of cases, with patient admission to the hospital after telemedicine visits. These physicians ranked the effectiveness of telemedicine more highly for every pathology surveyed. Of note, American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons region and years in clinical practice were not statistically associated with likelihood of offering telemedicine visits post-COVID-19. This study represents the first systematic national assessment of telemedicine use in podiatry and highlights clinically relevant changes in practice and perception of telemedicine in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
A geometry-based model describes lumen stability in epithelial cells

Abstract A continuous sheet of epithelial cells surrounding a hollow opening, or lumen, defines the basic topology of numerous organs. De novo lumen formation is a central feature of embryonic development whose dysregulation leads to congenital and acquired diseases of the kidney and other organs. While prior work has described the hydrostatic pressure-driven expansion of lumens when they are large, the physical mechanisms that promote the formation and maintenance of small, nascent lumens are less explored. In particular, models that rely solely on pressure-driven expansion face a potential challenge in that the Laplace pressure, which resists lumen expansion, is predicted to scale inversely with lumen radius. We investigated the cellular and physical mechanisms responsible for stabilizing the initial stages of lumen growth using a 3D culture system in which epithelial cells spontaneously form hollow lumens. Our experiments revealed that neither the actomyosin nor microtubule cytoskeletons are required to stabilize lumen geometry, and that a positive intraluminal pressure is not necessary for lumen stability. Instead, our observations are in agreement with a quantitative model in which cells maintain lumen shape due to topological and geometrical factors tied to the establishment of apico-basolateral polarity. We suggest that this model may provide a general physical mechanism for the formation of luminal openings in a variety of physiological contexts.
MCNP modelling of radiation effects of the Dragonfly mission's RTG on Titan

Abstract The Dragonfly mission to Titan is proposed to use a radioisotope thermoelectric generator to supply electrical and thermal power to the spacecraft during flight and once it arrives at its destination. As no spacecraft continuously powered by an RTG has been flown down through Titan's atmosphere before, the effects of such a generator's radiation field on the surrounding environment are unknown. MCNP (Monte Carlo N-Particle) simulations were run on a simplified model of the generator in its protective hull section in a coarse-grained Titan environment with both neutron and photon transport modelled, the former to determine the degree to which the surface was likely to become activated, and the latter to determine the energy likely to be deposited in a surface covering of tholin-analogue hydrocarbons, and consequently the potential for damage to chemical bonds found therein. Tests on the model also provided data which allowed for a determination of the degree to which the insulation surrounding the generator spacecraft might be activated by stray neutrons, how much heating might be expected in the hull section surrounding the generator and how much attenuation the beam from the spacecraft's pulsed neutron generator is likely to experience due to Titan's thick nitrogen atmosphere.
District-Level School Counseling Supervisors’ Experiences With and Perceptions of Hiring School Counselors:

Although district-level school counseling supervisors often assist with school counselors’ transition from preparation to practice, including hiring practices, research on this phenomenon is limite...
College students' perceptions of anticipated career burnout.

Objective: Although burnout has been studied in-depth among working professionals, less is known about college students’ perceptions of burnout in their future careers. In this study, we explored t...
A meta-analytic review of adaptive functioning in fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, and the effect of IQ, executive functioning, and age.

Introduction Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) are highly prevalent developmental disabilities associated with prenatal alcohol exposure. In addition to varied strengths and unique talents, people with FASD experience significant challenges, including in adaptive functioning. Adaptive functioning refers to skills related to everyday life such as communication, practical skills, and social skills. For the current review we aimed to understand how adaptive functioning in FASD compares to that of nonexposed individuals and those with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Additionally, we investigated how this relationship may change based on IQ, executive functioning, and age. Method The current review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO). Studies were eligible for inclusion if they measured adaptive functioning and included an FASD group and at least one eligible comparison group. Articles available in May 2021 in PubMed, PsycInfo, Scopus, and ProQuest Dissertations were searched. Publication bias was assessed using Egger's regression and three-level random effects models were computed for all domains of adaptive functioning. Possible moderation of IQ, executive functioning, and age were investigated if heterogeneity analyses were significant. A post-hoc moderation analysis of recruitment method was also completed. Results Thirty studies were included. Individuals with FASD had significantly lower adaptive functioning relative to other groups, with effect sizes ranging from 1.04-1.35 compared to nonexposed groups and .30-.43 compared to ADHD groups. No significant moderating effects were found for IQ, or age; executive functioning significantly moderated communication skills in FASD compared to the nonexposed group. Recruitment method significantly affected this relationship, with larger effect sizes on average found for clinically-identified samples compared to at-risk or population samples. Conclusions Individuals with FASD have impairments in adaptive functioning relative to nonexposed and ADHD groups, regardless of IQ, executive functioning, or age. Limitations include low sample sizes in some comparisons and limited age range.
Navigating parental leave as a leader in radiology: Commentary on challenges and strategies

Navigating parental leave can be challenging in all fields of medicine, but it can be especially challenging for leaders balancing clinical, research, and administrative duties. As women take on more leadership roles, we have the opportunity to better define the current challenges and identify potential strategies for navigating successful parental leave while balancing the demands of leadership. This manuscript provides a commentary on the challenges and strategies for navigating parental leave in leadership positions in radiology, an important topic for shaping how parental leave is both viewed and valued in the future. Specifically, we highlight challenges and strategies for administrative responsibilities, reporting personnel, emails, microaggressions, research, empowerment, and prioritization.
Sustainability at the Edge: The Opportunity and Responsibility of Local Governments to Most Effectively Plan for Natural Disaster Mitigation

Editors’ Summary: The traditional link between disaster mitigation and local land use planning was highlighted by the Disaster Mitigation Act (DMA) of 2000, which emphasizes the need for mitigation coordination among state and local entities. In this Article, Patricia E. Salkin looks at the role of local governments in natural disaster mitigation, specifically, how local governments may use traditional land use powers, such as the police power, to protect against disasters. She cites DMA provisions that offer financial incentives to states that work with local governments to plan for growth and disasters; she also sets forth case studies to illustrate how states can create vertical links among federal, state, and local entities to coordinate disaster mitigation strategies.
Malignant triton tumor in a patient with Li‐Fraumeni syndrome and a novel TP53 mutation

We report a 3-year-old boy with a malignant triton tumor (MTT) involving the left masticator space with local invasion and regional lymph node metastasis. Family history and detection of a novel germline TP53 mutation confirmed his diagnosis of Li Fraumeni syndrome (LFS). MTT has not been previously described in association with LFS. This case along with a comprehensive review of the literature, illustrate the importance of both somatic and germline TP53 mutations in the pathogenesis MTT. The tumor could not be resected and he was successfully treated with intensive induction chemotherapy, irradiation, and high-dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell transplantation.
Testing Interest Rate Models: What Does Futures and Options Data Tell Us?

Bond and option prices contain information on the future distribution of the state variables related to interest rates at multiple horizons based on the maturity/expiration of the assets. This study uses the information contained in Eurodollar futures and futures options prices to make inferences regarding different specifications used to describe the evolution of the short-rate. A modification, to the commonly used short-rate specifications, that generates a humped term structure of volatility (upward sloping at short horizons) is found to significantly improve the ability of the specifications to generate option prices that match market options price.
Web Services and Web Services Security

Web services are self-contained modular applications that provide a computation upon request. These services can be described, published, located, and invoked over a network, generally the Internet but intranets, extranets, and LANs can be used as well. Most often the World Wide Web (WWW) will be the means for the request of services. In using web services for its information systems needs, a firm may open access to its information assets. This action can become an attractive target for malicious hackers, industrial espionage, and fraud. The assurance of security of web services is necessary for a firm to be willing to adopt this technology as a means of creating its information systems
Vitamin D metabolism and regulation in pediatric MSCs

Vitamin D is crucial for mineral homeostasis and contributes to bone metabolism by inducing osteoblast differentiation of marrow stromal cells (MSCs). We recently reported that MSCs from adults demonstrate 1α-hydroxylase activity in vitro and express vitamin D-related genes; this raises a possible autocrine/paracrine role for D activation in pre-osteoblasts. In this studies, we tested the hypotheses that pediatric MSCs have 1α-hydroxylase activity and express vitamin D-related genes. With IRB approval, we isolated MSCs from discarded excess iliac marrow graft from 6 male and 6 female subjects (age 8-12 years) undergoing alveolar cleft repair. 1α-hydroxylation of substrate 25(OH)D3 was measured by ELISA for 1α,25(OH)2D. RT-PCR was used for gene expression. Pediatric MSCs showed a range of 1α-hydroxylase activity in vitro. There was constitutive expression of vitamin D receptor (VDR), megalin, d-hydroxylases (CYP27B1, CYP27A1, CYP2R1, and CYP24A1), and estrogen receptor (ER). There was 2.6-fold greater expression of CYP27B1 and 3.5-fold greater expression of CYP24A1 in MSCs from boys compared with girls. There was 2.4-fold greater expression of ERα and 3.2-fold greater expression of megalin in MSCs from boys. In preliminary studies, treatment of female pediatric MSCs with 10nM 17β-estradiol resulted in upregulation of CYP27B1 and CYP24A1, as well as VDR, megalin, ERα, and ERβ. Treatment with 25(OH)D3 upregulated CYP27B1, VDR, and ERα. Expression and regulation of vitamin D related genes in pediatric hMSCs reinforces an autocrine/paracrine role for vitamin D in hMSCs. Finding striking gender differences in MSCs from children was not seen with MSCs from adults and adds insight to the metabolic environment of bone and presents a research approach for investigating and optimizing pediatric bone health.
Radiogenomics: what it is and why it is important.

Abstract In recent years, a new direction in cancer research has emerged that focuses on the relationship between imaging phenotypes and genomics. This direction is referred to as radiogenomics or imaging genomics. The question that subsequently arises is: What is the practical significance of elucidating this relationship in improving cancer patient outcomes. In this article, I address this question. Although I discuss some limitations of the radiogenomic approach, and describe scenarios in which radiogenomic analysis might not be the best choice, I also argue that radiogenomics will play a significant practical role in cancer research. Specifically, I argue that the significance of radiogenomics is largely related to practical limitations of currently available data that often lack complete characterization of the patients and poor integration of individual datasets. Radiogenomics offers a practical way to leverage limited and incomplete data to generate knowledge that might lead to improved decision making, and as a result, improved patient outcomes.
Corporate Governance Ratings: Got the Grade... What Was the Test?

In 2007, there were three prominent corporate governance ratings firms - The Corporate Library (TCL), Governance Metrics International (GMI), and Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS). These firms assessed the effectiveness and deficiency of the governance systems of thousands of publicly traded companies. Although members of the investing public agreed that sound policies were important to protect the interest of shareholders from potentially self-interested managers, there were many questions around the usefulness of published governance ratings themselves. Questions ranged from whether a system of governance could be adequately summarized in a single, numerical score to what a high or low rating was supposed to indicate. Furthermore, allegations that ISS engaged in a conflict of interest by selling consulting services to companies on how to improve their ratings led some to question the objectivity of the ratings process.
Cat-Bite Peritonitis: Pasteurella Multocida Peritonitis Following Feline Contamination of Peritoneal Dialysis Tubing

We report a case of a 55-year-old woman with end-stage renal disease undergoing intermittent peritoneal dialysis who developed peritonitis secondary to an infection with Pasteurella multocida resulting from a cat bite or cat scratch penetrating her peritoneal dialysis tubing. This case points out the potential importance of household pets as a source of peritoneal contamination.
Sugar-mediated crosslinking of alpha-biotinylated-Lys to cysteamine-agarose support: a method to isolate Maillard Lys-Lys-like crosslinks.

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and, specifically, protein-protein AGE crosslinks have long been studied for their potential role in aging, diabetic complications and Alzheimer disease. With few exceptions, the chemical nature of these structures remains unknown. We report here a simple approach that allows the preparation and isolation of milligram quantities of sugar-mediated AGE Lys-Lys-like crosslinks from glycation mixtures. The method is based on a sugar-dependent incorporation of Nα-biotinyl-l-Lys into cysteaminyldisulfide Sepharose 6B (AE-S-S-Sepharose 6B). Glycation mixtures with six different sugars showed a time- and sugar-dependent decrease in the concentration of the support-bound primary amino groups and accounted for almost 90% loss of cysteaminyl amino groups at the end of the various incubation periods. 4-Hydroxyazobenzene-2-carboxylic acid-avidin assays indicated the incorporation of Nα-biotinyl-l-Lys equal to 8% of the total support amino groups with methylglyoxal after 7d and 1% with fructose and glucose after 1 mo of incubation. Treatment of the washed, sugar-modified supports with 2-mercaptoethanol released the bulk of the bound AGE modifications and the crosslinks. Subsequent fractionation of these preparations over a monomeric avidin column afforded a complete separation of sugar-mediated AGE modifications and the crosslinks. Depending on the sugar employed, micromolar amounts of biotinylated Lys-Lys-like crosslinks were generated by this two-step procedure from 8 mL of the original AE-S-S-Sepharose 6B.
Aluminum: toxin or innocent bystander in renal osteodystrophy.

LIMITED information is available on quantitative changes of static and dynamic histologic parameters of bone found with accumulation of aluminum in bone. It was recently postulated that aluminum deposition in bone might represent an epiphenomenon. In addition, it is controversial whether aluminum accumulation in bone can be diagnosed by noninvasive means. 1.2 Therefore, a careful description and evaluation of diagnostic means and of the relationship between aluminum and bone abnormalities is warranted.
Fetal Chest Ultrasound and Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Recent Advances and Current Clinical Applications

Advances in high-resolution prenatal ultrasound and fetal magnetic resonance (MR) imaging have changed the practice of obstetrics by allowing better visualization of intrathoracic and neck structures and better estimation of lung volumes. More accurate prenatal diagnosis has increased options for pregnancy management and treatment, delivery planning, and postnatal care. Anyone who is interested in the fascinating field of fetology should become familiar with the current state of fetal imaging of the chest as well as potential advances in technology and research.
Quantal Density-Functional Theory of Excited States: The State Arbitrariness of the Model Noninteracting System

The quantal density-functional theory (Q-DFT) of nondegenerate excited-states maps the pure state of the Schr\"odinger equation to one of noninteracting fermions such that the equivalent excited state density, energy, and ionization potential are obtained. The state of the model S system is arbitrary in that it may be in a ground or excited state. The potential energy of the model fermions differs as a function of this state. The contribution of correlations due to the Pauli exclusion principle and Coulomb repulsion to the potential and total energy of these fermions is independent of the state of the S system. The differences are solely a consequence of correlation-kinetic effects. Irrespective of the state of the S system, the highest occupied eigenvalue of the model fermions is the negative of the ionization potential. In this paper we demonstrate the state arbitrariness of the model system by application of Q-DFT to the first excited singlet state of the exactly solvable Hookean atom. We construct two model S systems: one in a singlet ground state ${(1s}^{2}),$ and the other in a singlet first excited state $(1s2s).$ In each case, the density and energy determined are equivalent to those of the excited state of the atom, with the highest occupied eigenvalues being the negative of the ionization potential. From these results we determine the corresponding Kohn-Sham density-functional theory (KS-DFT) ``exchange-correlation'' potential energy for the two S systems. Further, based on the results of the model calculations, suggestions for the KS-DFT of excited states are made.
Selective aflatoxin B1-induced sister chromatid exchanges and cytotoxicity in differentiating B and T lymphocytes in vivo.

The purpose of this study was to assess the genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of the fungal metabolite aflatoxin B1 (AfB1) on the developing immune system of the chick embryo, a model in vivo system. Of particular interest was the assessment of AfB1 -mediated selective toxicity toward developing B lymphocytes as compared to T lymphocytes. In vivo bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) labelling of DNA was used to detect the induction of sister chromatid exchanges (SCE) in lymphocytes and to assess the progression of these cells through successive cell cycles. Cytotoxicity was also assessed by studying the entrance and maintenance of cells in mitosis (mitotic index). Graded doses of AfB1 (1.09–17.4 μ/g embryo) were applied to chick embryos of 18 days of incubation (Dl). Embryos also received two doses of BrdU at 3 mg/200 μ (3 hr apart) to provide continuous labelling of B and T lymphocyte replicating DNA. B and T lymphocytes were harvested 20 hr post-AfB1/BrdU exposure from the bursa and thymus, respectively, and were processed for cytogenetic analyses. AfB1 induced dose-related increases in SCE in B lymphocytes; this induction was 6- to 8-fold that of controls at the higher doses tested, AfB1 -mediated induction of SCE in T cells was just 2-fold that of controls at the highest dose tested. AfB1 reduced the progression of B cells and to a lesser extent T ceels through successive rounds of replication. Furthermore, AfB1 dramatically reduced the mitotic index of B cells but not of T cells. These data indicate both selective genotoxicity and cytotoxicity of AfB1 toward B cells in the late stage embryo. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Bounded mean oscillation and bandlimited interpolation in the presence of noise

Abstract We study some problems related to the effect of bounded, additive sample noise in the bandlimited interpolation given by the Whittaker–Shannon–Kotelnikov (WSK) sampling formula. We establish a generalized form of the WSK series that allows us to consider the bandlimited interpolation of any bounded sequence at the zeros of a sine-type function. The main result of the paper is that if the samples in this series consist of independent, uniformly distributed random variables, then the resulting bandlimited interpolation almost surely has a bounded global average. In this context, we also explore the related notion of a bandlimited function with bounded mean oscillation. We prove some properties of such functions, and in particular, we show that they are either bounded or have unbounded samples at any positive sampling rate. We also discuss a few concrete examples of functions that demonstrate these properties.
Biomarkers, ketone bodies, and the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease

Sporadic Alzheimer's disease (spAD) has three successive phases: preclinical, mild cognitive impairment, and dementia. Individuals in the preclinical phase are cognitively normal. Diagnosis of preclinical spAD requires evidence of pathologic brain changes provided by established biomarkers. Histopathologic features of spAD include (i) extra-cellular cerebral amyloid plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles that embody hyperphosphorylated tau; and (ii) neuronal and synaptic loss. Amyloid-PET brain scans conducted during spAD's preclinical phase have disclosed abnormal accumulations of amyloid-beta (Aβ) in cognitively normal, high-risk individuals. However, this measure correlates poorly with changes in cognitive status. In contrast, MRI measures of brain atrophy consistently parallel cognitive deterioration. By the time dementia appears, amyloid deposition has already slowed or ceased. When a new treatment offers promise of arresting or delaying progression of preclinical spAD, its effectiveness must be inferred from intervention-correlated changes in biomarkers. Herein, differing tenets of the amyloid cascade hypothesis (ACH) and the mitochondrial cascade hypothesis (MCH) are compared. Adoption of the ACH suggests therapeutic research continue to focus on aspects of the amyloid pathways. Adoption of the MCH suggests research emphasis be placed on restoration and stabilization of mitochondrial function. Ketone ester (KE)-induced elevation of plasma ketone body (KB) levels improves mitochondrial metabolism and prevents or delays progression of AD-like pathologic changes in several AD animal models. Thus, as a first step, it is imperative to determine whether KE-caused hyperketonemia can bring about favorable changes in biomarkers of AD pathology in individuals who are in an early stage of AD's preclinical phase.
Breakeven price comparisons between high-energy sorghum production and competing crops in selected regions of Texas

Studies were conducted to determine the breakeven price of high-energy sorghum compared to competing crops in the Lower Rio Grande Valley (LRGV) and Brazos Valley (BV) areas, Texas, USA. Variability in annual mean per hectare yields of the six selected energy sorghym cultivars suggested that production of energy sorghum is associated with a smaller degree of production risk in the BV than in the LRGV. Energy sorghum's estimated breakeven prices compared to other alternative crops were found to range from US$6.78 to US$17.10 Mg−1 in the LRGV and US$10.60 to US$14.98 Mg−1 in the BV. Total cost to produce methane from energy sorghum ranged from US$6.23 to US$8.45 GJ−1. This is considerably greater than the current market price of natural gas, US$3.32 GJ−1.