cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Advancing Our Cell Culture Platform: Incorporating Lessons Learned and New Technologies

Based on experience with multiple molecules, Amgen developed a cell culture platform for process development of monoclonal antibodies and Fc fusion proteins to increase the speed to market and to minimize resource commitment during early phase development. While most parameters are pre-specified, a small subset does require some optimization because of performance differences across molecules and their cell lines. As measured by cell culture performance (titer and scalability) and business metrics, use of the platform has been very successful. A couple of Amgen’s earlier projects, however, did not perform as well as others under the platform conditions. The atypical molecules have required more time and/or resources to meet performance goals and, even then, they did not necessarily achieve the targeted levels. Despite the difficulties, the experience of working with these molecules did provide some information for improving overall platform success at both bench and pilot scales. Periodic updates of the platform by a peer-review process that incorporates “lessons learned” and advances from in-house technology development have resulted in higher titers, greater consistency in performance across Amgen sites, and improved operations in our pilot-scale and clinical manufacturing environments. While intended as an approach for early phase molecules, experience gained over multiple projects has resulted in evolution of the platform that is moving us closer to a single phase of upstream process development.
Resonance Planar Channeling Effect on Superlattices

The concept of superlattice consisting of man-made alternating layered structures created artificially by periodically depositing two different semiconductors was first proposed by Esaki and Tsu(1). This type of modulated structures have interesting electron transport and optical properties and they are of technological importance in the development of sophisticated materials for electronic and optical applications. The ion beam channeling technique has been applied to the study of various superlattices. In this review, I will start with a few early ion beam channeling experiments and their gradual development into the measurement of strain in lattice mismatch superlattice systems. Then I will address the resonance channeling effect on superlattices. This title subject was developed primarily by Allen, Ellison, Picraux, and the author of this review. Several papers have been written on this topic and they are referenced here; a series of papers by the above four authors are in preparation. This review will give an overview of the general topic of resonance channeling in superlattices.
Disparities in survival by insurance status in follicular lymphoma

Follicular lymphoma (FL) is the second most common non-Hodgkin lymphoma and most common indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Lower socioeconomic status is associated with poor outcomes in FL, suggesting that access to care is an important prognostic factor; however, the association between insurance status and FL survival has not been sufficiently examined. The National Cancer Database, a nationwide cancer registry, was used to evaluate 43 648 patients with FL diagnosed between 2004 and 2014. All analyses were performed on 2 cohorts segmented at age 65 years to account for changes in insurance status with Medicare eligibility. Cox proportional hazard models calculated hazard ratios (HRs) with confidence intervals (CIs) for the association between insurance status and overall survival (OS) controlling for the available sociodemographic and prognostic factors. Kaplan-Meier curves display outcomes by insurance status for patients covered by private insurance, no insurance, Medicaid, or Medicare. When compared with patients younger than age 65 years with private insurance, patients younger than age 65 years with no insurance (HR, 1.96; 95% CI, 1.69-2.28), with Medicaid (HR, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.57-2.12), and with Medicare (HR, 1.96; 95% CI, 1.71-2.24) had significantly worse OS after adjusting for sociodemographic and prognostic factors. Compared with patients age 65 years or older with private insurance, those with Medicare only (HR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.17-1.4) had significantly worse OS. For adults with FL, expanding access to care through insurance has the potential to improve outcomes.
A comprehensive first-principles study of solute elements in dilute Ni alloys: Diffusion coefficients and their implications to tailor creep rate

Abstract Diffusion regulates a vast number of materials properties and phenomena such as creep, the focus of the present work. However, a deep understanding of the effect of how each alloying element in a Ni-base superalloy affects properties such as diffusion and creep is far from complete. Here, we report temperature-dependent dilute solute diffusion coefficients and their implications to tailor the creep rate for 26 transition metal solute elements, X's, in fcc Ni using first-principles calculations. Calculations are performed using the five-frequency model for dilute solute diffusion and the nudged elastic band method within the local density approximation. Thermodynamic properties at finite temperatures for all configurations are calculated using the quasi-harmonic Debye model. In general, the fastest diffusing solute elements in Ni are found at the left side of the periodic table and the slowest diffusing solute elements are found in group VIIB. In particular, the present work indicates that the diffusivity of the dilute solute elements is correlated to the compressibility of each solute element on the respective Ni31X supercell, and not as strongly to the ionic radius of the solute elements, as previously suggested. Finally, results from the diffusivity study are combined with the previous results of elastic constants and stacking fault energies, and hence, a relative creep rate ratio for these 26 solute elements is modeled. It is shown that in most cases, slower diffusing solute elements provide the most creep resistance. This is true even at higher temperatures, due mainly to the solute's strong bonding with Ni atoms in the host lattice.
Substantial pain burden in frequency, intensity, interference and chronicity among children and adults with neurofibromatosis Type 1

Tumor growths, migraine headaches, and other health-related complications reported in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) are often associated with pain. Thus, this study sought to describe and quantify the pain experience in children and young adults with NF1. Surveys were administered to 49 participants (28 children and 21 adults), ages 8 through 40 years. The survey included the Numeric Rating Scale 11 (NRS11) to assess pain intensity and the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) to assess pain interference. A supplemental survey was created to measure pain frequency, chronicity, quality, and location. Results suggest pain is not only present in 55% of the cohort, but that it can begin at early ages. Pain was chronic in 35% of participants, with 41% reporting the use of medication to manage pain symptoms. Common sources of pain included migraine headaches and NF-related tumors. Pain was described as having neuropathic features (i.e., burning, tingling, numbness, or itching), and was localized to the head, back, and extremities. Further, subsets of participants reported moderate-to-severe pain intensity, high frequency of pain, and interference of pain in daily activities. Continued investigation of the pain experience in a multisystem disorder, such as NF1, remains essential to providing guidance in the setting of complex pain management.
An axial Hox code controls tissue segmentation and body patterning in Nematostella vectensis.

Hox genes encode conserved developmental transcription factors that govern anterior-posterior (A-P) pattering in diverse bilaterian animals, which display bilateral symmetry. Although Hox genes are also present within Cnidaria, these simple animals lack a definitive A-P axis, leaving it unclear how and when a functionally integrated Hox code arose during evolution. We used short hairpin RNA (shRNA)–mediated knockdown and CRISPR-Cas9 mutagenesis to demonstrate that a Hox-Gbx network controls radial segmentation of the larval endoderm during development of the sea anemone Nematostella vectensis. Loss of Hox-Gbx activity also elicits marked defects in tentacle patterning along the directive (orthogonal) axis of primary polyps. On the basis of our results, we propose that an axial Hox code may have controlled body patterning and tissue segmentation before the evolution of the bilaterian A-P axis.
Identification of Clinical Characteristics Associated With High-Level Care Among Patients With Skin and Soft Tissue Infections.

Study objective Serious adverse outcomes associated with skin and soft tissue infections are uncommon, and current hospitalization rates appear excessive. It would be advantageous to be able to differentiate between patients who require high-level inpatient services and those who receive little benefit from hospitalization. We sought to identify characteristics associated with the need for high-level inpatient care among emergency department patients presenting with skin and soft tissue infections. Methods We conducted a nonconcurrent review of existing records to identify emergency department (ED) patients treated for skin and soft tissue infections. For each case, we recorded the presence or absence of select criteria and whether the patient needed high-level care, defined as ICU admission, operating room surgical intervention, or death as the primary outcome. We applied recursive partitioning to identify the principal criteria associated with high-level care. Results We identified 2,923 patients, including 84 experiencing high-level events. Recursive partitioning identified 6 variables associated with high-level outcomes: abnormal computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, or ultrasonographic imaging result; systemic inflammatory response syndrome; history of diabetes; previous infection at the same location; older than 65 years; and an infection involving the hand. One or more of these variables were present in all 84 patients requiring high-level care. Conclusion A limited number of simple clinical characteristics appear to be able to identify skin and soft tissue infection patients who require high-level inpatient services. Further research is needed to determine whether patients who do not exhibit these criteria can be safely discharged from the ED.
A Review of Four-ball Methods for the Evaluation of Lubricants

A review of four-ball wear tester and test methods developed at Penn State by Prof. Emeritus E.E. Klaus (Deceased) and students of Klaus. The test methods include standard methods for fluid and additive evaluation, microliter tests to evaluate tribochemical reactions in the contact zone, Ball-on-Three Flat tests to evaluate materials and fluids, scuffing test methods and sequential four-ball tests, one of which was developed to screen hydraulic fluids for full-scale pump stand tests and field vehicles. Applications range from room temperature to over 425 °C. The variety of methods demonstrate the versatility of the FBWT, including applications related to the tribology of hydraulic fluid systems.
Predictors of operative mortality among cardiac surgery patients with prolonged ventilation.

Background Prolonged ventilation after cardiac surgery affects survival and increases morbidity. Previous studies have focused on predicting this complication preoperatively; however, indicators of poor outcome in those requiring prolonged ventilation remain ill-defined. We sought to identify predictors of operative mortality in cardiac surgery patients who experience prolonged mechanical ventilation. Methods 1698 patients who underwent cardiac surgery (CAB, aortic valve replacement ± CAB, or mitral valve repair/replacement ± CAB) required prolonged postoperative mechanical ventilation (>24 hours) between 2012 to 2016 in a statewide consortium. Perioperative factors were evaluated to identify the association with operative mortality. Covariates were selected through bootstrap aggregation to fit multivariable logistic regression models. The relative strength of association was determined by the Wald chi-square statistic. Results Median patient age was 68 years [IQR 61 to 76], 38% (644/1,698) were female, median duration of mechanical ventilation was 65 hours [IQR 38 to 143], median STS predicted risk of mortality was 3.1% [IQR 1.4 to 6.9%], and 15.7% (266/1698) suffered operative mortality. Among preoperative and operative characteristics, patient age and intraoperative initiation of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) were the strongest correlates of operative mortality on the multivariate analysis. Among postoperative factors, cardiac arrest and renal failure requiring dialysis were the strongest predictors of risk-adjusted operative mortality. Type of operation or surgical center had no association to mortality after risk adjustment. Conclusion Prolonged ventilation following cardiac surgery is associated with a five-fold increase in operative mortality. In these patients, operative mortality is associated with older age, intraoperative initiation of ECMO, postoperative cardiac arrest, and renal failure requiring dialysis.
Nonlinear control of unmanned aerial vehicles with cable suspended payloads

Abstract This paper focuses on the mathematical modeling and control of an unmanned aerial system (UAS) with a payload suspended using a cable. The motion of the payload induces disturbances on the aerial platform and needs to be mitigated for stable operation. The solution to this control problem is presented through the implementation of a passivity based controller, and an extended state observer based active disturbance rejection controller. The implementation of the passivity based controller requires the knowledge of higher time derivatives of the payload oscillations. Assuming only the swing angles of the payload with respect to a UAS are measured, these states (primarily the angular velocity) are estimated using a continuous-discrete Kalman Filter. Alternately since, the payload cable swing angle is difficult to measure, an active disturbance rejection controller is designed and implemented wherein the disturbance induced in the system due to the motion of the payload is estimated using the extended state observer. A comparison between the passivity based controller and the extended state observer based active disturbance rejection controller is performed using a high fidelity numerical simulation.
Nodal metastases of soft tissue sarcomas: risk factors, imaging findings, and implications

Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are malignancies derived from connective tissue, and regional lymph node metastasis (RLNM), while not common, is an important aspect of prognosis and treatment. Various risk factors, in particular the histological subtype, affect the likelihood of nodal involvement, which can be characterized by imaging features such as nodal dimension and morphology. Currently, surveillance and management vary by institution, as concrete societal guidelines have not been established. Common nodal status assessment strategies include physical exam, US CT, MRI, sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) and radical lymphadenectomy. This article summarizes data regarding relevant risk factors of RLNM, imaging features, and any available data regarding surveillance recommendations.
Transcriptional mechanisms of motor neuron development in vertebrates and invertebrates

Across phylogeny, motor neurons (MNs) represent a single but often remarkably diverse neuronal class composed of a multitude of subtypes required for vital behaviors, such as eating and locomotion. Over the past decades, seminal studies in multiple model organisms have advanced our molecular understanding of the early steps of MN development, such as progenitor specification and acquisition of MN subtype identity, by revealing key roles for several evolutionarily conserved transcription factors. However, very little is known about the molecular strategies that allow distinct MN subtypes to maintain their identity- and function-defining features during the late steps of development and postnatal life. Here, we provide an overview of invertebrate and vertebrate studies on transcription factor-based strategies that control early and late steps of MN development, aiming to highlight evolutionarily conserved gene regulatory principles necessary for establishment and maintenance of neuronal identity.
Ill-Posed Problems and Regularization

In this chapter we consider the equation $$ Ax = y $$ (2.0) linear) continuous operator acting from a subset X of a Banach space into a subset Y of another Banach space, and x ∈ X is to be found given y. We discuss solvability of this equation when A −1 does not exist by outlining basic results of the theory created in the 1960s by Ivanov, John, Lavrent’ev, and Tikhonov. In Section 2.1 we give definitions of well- and ill-posedness, together with important illustrational examples. In Section 2.2 we describe a class of equations (2.0) that can be numerically solved in a stable way. Section 2.3 is to the variational construction of algorithms of solutions by minimizing Tikhonov stabilizing fimctionals. In Section 2.4 we show that stability estimates for equation (2.0) imply convergence rates for numerical algorithms and discuss the relation between convergence of these algorithms and the existence of a solution to (2.0). The final section, Section 2.5, describes some iterative regularization algorithms.
X-Cut Lithium Niobate Series-Parallel Resonator Configuration Boosts Passive Voltage Amplification for Wake-Up Receivers to 46 V/V

This work reports on the use of X-cut Lithium Niobate (LN) microelectromechanical resonators in a series-parallel configuration (L-network) to boost passive voltage amplification in asynchronous Wake-Up Radio Receivers (WuRx) to 46 V/V – the highest passive voltage gain ever attained for WuRx with large capacitive input impedance ( $C_{\text{load}}$ ). We harness the quality factor ( $Q_{\mathrm{s}} > 4000$ at 50 MHz) and electromechanical coupling ( ${k_{\mathrm{t}}}^{2} > 30\%$ ) of X-cut LN resonators and configure them in a series-parallel network to provide passive voltage amplification when driving a capacitive load (e.g. the input impedance of an envelope detector). The use of this L-network is disruptive over the conventional use of a single series resonator and provides more than 30% gain improvement. The proposed technique requires two identical resonators and is robust against frequency variations. Finally, it requires the use of smaller resonators for a given capacitive load, making it further immune to gain variations experienced when using large parallel arrays of resonators.
Why alliances fail: Islamist and leftist coalitions in North Africa: by Matt Buehler, Syracuse, Syracuse University Press, 2018, 288 pp., USD 39.95 (Paperback), ISBN 9780815636137

While the Arab uprisings were largely secular in nature, the relative early success of the street protests reshuffled the Islamist deck, in terms of ideology and strategy. As Islamists recalibrated...
Analysis of cellular DNA distributions

An analytical formula for calculating peak channel ratios in fluorescent cytophotometric determinations of DNA content per cell was derived to assess the effects of inaccuracies in the model-dependent derivation of S-phase cell populations and of systematic instrumental errors. The DNA distribution histograms usually have two peaks, corresponding to the 2C DNA content of G1 cells and to the 4C DNA content of G2 and M cells. In the presence of S-phase cells, the ratio of peak channels G2/G1 becomes less than 2. The calculation uses the model-dependent number of S-phase cells per channel and instrumental resolution to obtain G2/G1. The peak channel ratio calculated in this way decreases with increasing coefficient of variation and increasing proportion of S-phase cells. The calculated G2/G1 peak channel ratios were compared with 17 experimental values ranging from 1.68 to 2.08. Significant differences were found for two experiments, and the calculated G2/G1 ratios were systematically low by ≈4% for the other experiments. When this systematic difference in predicted peak channel ratios is taken into account, the formula predicts the observed ratios with an accuracy of 1% showing the dominant effect of S-phase cells in modifying the observed spectrum. The possible experimental effects leading to the observed systematic discrepancy are discussed A programmable pocket calculator program to perform these calculations is also described in detail.
In Search of Support: A Snapshot of What's Advertised for African‐American Veterans in US Flagship Universities

While few organizations would willingly identify as being unfriendly to veterans, articulating what being veteran friendly means is an ongoing challenge. As such, organization leaders may struggle to explain the term, beyond reporting a need to support military veterans. This knowledge gap could contribute toward the high turnover rates of military veterans, particularly within their first 2 years of employment. To lessen these struggles, the authors propose a framework focused on building and sustaining a veteran-friendly organization. The framework provides an opportunity for organization leaders to improve their knowledge and preparation for creating a lasting veteran-friendly culture. The paper introduces veteran employment challenges, offers a review of literature on veteran-friendly organizations, details the proposed framework on veteran-friendly practices, and concludes with a reflection on the framework and implications for organizations and scholars interested in supporting veteran career transitions.
Ghrelin signalling is dysregulated in male but not female offspring in a rat model of maternal vertical sleeve gastrectomy.

Bariatric surgery is the most effective and durable means of treating obesity and its comorbidities. Women make up 80% of those receiving weight loss surgery and they experience improvements in fertility. Unfortunately, bariatric surgery in the context of pregnancy is associated with complications, including growth restriction and small-for-gestational age offspring (SGA). SGA offspring have a greater risk for obesity in adulthood, although the mechanism for this SGA-induced obesity is unknown. In a rat model of vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG), we previously identified reductions during pregnancy in ghrelin, a stomach-derived hormone that increases appetite and induces growth hormone secretion. Here, we hypothesise that VSG offspring will have altered ghrelin signalling compared to offspring of Sham dams as a result of reduced in utero ghrelin. At postnatal day (PND)21, male and female offspring of dams that have previously received VSG have an increase in mRNA expression for the ghrelin receptor in the hypothalamus compared to Sham offspring, and the expression of GOAT is lower in females compared to males. Liver expression of endogenous ghrelin antagonist, LEAP2, is elevated at PND60 in VSG offspring. Expression of other genes in the growth hormone system (growth hormone-releasing hormone and growth hormone) were not altered. Plasma levels of total ghrelin at PND21 are also not different between VSG and Sham pups. In adult pups, 1-hour chow intake of male but not female VSG offspring given is less than Sham offspring when given 50 µg kg-1 of exogenous ghrelin by i.p. injection. These results indicate that maternal VSG surgery has an impact on ghrelin signalling in offspring and that, as adults, male VSG offspring may be functionally less responsive to ghrelin than controls.
Sex Discordance and Risk of Breast Cancer, A Twin Study

Abstract Objective The purpose of the study is to perform an analysis of the relationship between sex discordance and risk of breast cancer in female twins in the United States. Methods A cross-sectional study of 14,462 female twins was conducted using data from Washington State Twin Registry (WSTR) in the USA. The variables collected included, BMI, age, race and zygosity. This study used Generalized Estimating Equation (GEE) modeling to determine the relationships between twin pairs and variables of interest such as breast cancer and sex concordance. Zygosity, BMI, age and race were used for adjustment. Proband wise concordance was done to ascertain the heritability of breast cancer in twins. Results Being a female-female twin pair increased the odds of breast cancer by 34% (95%CI: 1.18-1.53). After adjusting for zygosity, age, BMI, race, and childbirth, the odds of breast decreased by 31% in female-female twin pairs [AOR (95%CI):0.69 (0.53-0.90)]. The proband wise concordance was higher in monozygotic twins as compared to dizygotic twins. The values for dizygotic and monozygotic twins were 4 and 17 respectively. Conclusion The findings of the study show that there is a positive association between sex concordance and breast cancer in female twins though other factors such as zygosity, BMI and age can influence breast cancer diagnosis. From our study, the proband wise concordance for monozygotic twins was higher than that of dizygotic twins. Breast cancer is therefore considered heritable.
Analysis of proteostasis during aging with western blot of detergent-soluble and insoluble protein fractions.

Summary Defects in protein quality control are the underlying cause of age-related diseases. The western blot analysis of detergent-soluble and insoluble protein fractions has proven useful in identifying interventions that regulate proteostasis. Here, we describe the protocol for such analyses in Drosophila tissues, mouse skeletal muscle, human organoids, and HEK293 cells. We describe key adaptations of this protocol and provide key information that will help modify this protocol for future studies in other tissues and disease models. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Rai et al. (2021) and Hunt el al. (2021) .
Catastrophic Events Related to Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) Are Unlikely In a Heterogeneous Adult Cohort of TSC Patients (2164)

Objective: To (1) characterize clinical manifestations in an adult TSC cohort, (2) examine impact of distance from the clinic and adherence to surveillance, and (3) determine the prevalence of TSC-related catastrophic events including renal hemorrhage, renal cell carcinoma, sudden unexplained death in epilepsy (SUDEP), and death from any other cause. Background: TSC is a multi-system neurological disorder characterized by epilepsy, cognitive dysfunction, and benign tumors of the eye, brain, heart, lung, and kidneys. TSC varies greatly in its severity with some experiencing heavy disease burden, while others are functionally independent. Management requires adherence to surveillance guidelines. Design/Methods: All patients seen at the Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Tuberous Sclerosis Clinic were retrospectively enrolled. Data was collected on demographics and TSC clinical criteria met. Descriptive statistics, t-test, and ANOVA were performed. Rural vs. urban status was determined by RUCA codes. Results: 40 patients were enrolled; mean age 35.8 years +/− 12.6; 40% male, 77% urban. Clinical manifestations of TSC included: 88% epilepsy, 85% skin involvement, 73% renal involvement, 80% neurological involvement, 48% pulmonary and/or cardiac involvement, 18% LAM, and 13% retinal hamartomas. The majority lived >60 miles away (44%) compared to 33% within 30–60 miles and 23% Conclusions: In this cohort of adult TSC patients, the most common manifestations include epilepsy, dermatologic manifestations, neurological manifestations, and renal manifestations. Adherence to TS Alliance surveillance was higher for nonverbal patients, perhaps due to the influence of caretakers. Catastrophic events occurred rarely. Disclosure: Miss Neal has nothing to disclose. Sarah McCain has nothing to disclose. The institution of Dr. Boggs has received research support from Liva Nova. Dr. Boggs has a non-compensated relationship as a Chairman PAB with Epilepsy Alliance North Carolina that is relevant to AAN interests or activities. Theodore B Stem has nothing to disclose. Matthew C Miles has nothing to disclose. Dr. Strowd has received personal compensation for serving as an employee of Kaplan. Dr. Strowd has received personal compensation in the range of $500-$4,999 for serving as a Consultant for Monteris Medical, Inc. Dr. Strowd has received personal compensation in the range of $500-$4,999 for serving as a Consultant for Novocure. Dr. Strowd has received personal compensation in the range of $5,000-$9,999 for serving as an Editor, Associate Editor, or Editorial Advisory Board Member for American Academy of Neurology. The institution of Dr. Strowd has received research support from Southeastern Brain Tumor Foundation. The institution of Dr. Strowd has received research support from Jazz Pharmaceuticals. The institution of Dr. Strowd has received research support from National Institutes of Health. The institution of Dr. Strowd has received research support from Alpha Omega Alpha.
Can Symmetric Toeplitz Solvers be Strongly Stable

We describe symmetric positive definite Toeplitz systems for which the floating point vector that is closest to the actual solution is not the solution of a nearby symmetric Toeplitz system. With these systems we are able to show that a large class of Toeplitz solvers are not strongly stable for solving symmetric (or symmetric positive definite) Toeplitz systems; i.e., the computed solution is not necessarily the solution of a nearby symmetric Toeplitz system. This class of algorithms includes Gaussian elimination and seems to include all known fast and superfast Toeplitz solvers; certainly, it includes the better known ones. These results strongly suggest that all symmetric Toeplitz solvers are not strongly stable.
Testimony by otolaryngologists in defense of tobacco companies 2009-2014.

Objectives/Hypothesis To examine expert testimony offered by otolaryngologists in defense of the tobacco industry and to assess whether opinions rendered were congruent with evidence in the scientific literature. Methods Data sources include publically available expert witness depositions and trial testimony of board-certified otolaryngologists employed by the tobacco industry in defense of lawsuits brought by smokers suffering from head and neck cancer. The cases, adjudicated in Florida between 2009 and 2014, focused on whether smoking caused the plaintiff's cancer. Results The study includes nine legal cases of upper aerodigestive tract cancer involving six otolaryngologists serving as expert witnesses for the tobacco industry. Cancer sites included larynx (5), esophagus (2), mouth (1), and lung (1). Five of the six otolaryngologists consistently, over multiple cases, offered opinions that smoking did not cause the plaintiff's cancer. By highlighting an exhaustive list of potential risk factors, such as human papillomavirus (HPV), alcohol, asbestos, diesel fumes, salted fish, mouthwash, and even urban living, they created doubt in the minds of the jurors as to the role of smoking in the plaintiff's cancer. Evidence shows that this testimony, which was remarkably similar across cases, was part of a defense strategy shaped by tobacco's law firms. Conclusions A small group of otolaryngologists regularly serve as experts on behalf of the tobacco industry. Examination of their opinions in relation to the scientific literature reveals a systematic bias in interpreting the data relating to the role played by smoking in head and neck cancer causation. Level of Evidence N/A. Laryngoscope, 2015
Abstract 12647: Widespread Activation of Kidney Injury and Remodeling Molecular Pathways in Experimental Heart Failure in Canines

Introduction: Heart failure (HF) is a major health problem with even worse prognosis in the presence of renal impairment. This cardio-renal connection in HF may suggest the necessity for dual targeting treatments in HF. We sought to determine the gene expression profiles to establish that the kidney is a target organ for widespread molecular changes in HF. Hypothesis: Fibrotic, inflammatory, and apoptotic genes will be affected in kidney as well as the heart in experimental HF. Methods: Experimental HF was induced in canines by rapid right ventricular pacing at 240 bpm for 10 days. Kidney cortex (KC) and medulla (KM) as well as left ventricle (LV),and left atrial (LA), tissues from normal and HF canines (n=4 of each) were analyzed using RT-PCR microarrays related to fibrosis, growth and neurohumoral factors, inflammation, apoptosis, cardiac hypertrophy and renal injury. Results: Experimental HF was characterized by increased pulmonary arterial pressure and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure and decreased %EF with increased circulating ANP, BNP, cGMP and aldosterone levels. The weight of total heart, LV, and kidney did not change, but LA weight increased significantly. Compared to normals, 68 genes (61/7) in KC and 35 genes (32/3) in KM were changed in the kidney while in the heart 36 genes (31 up-/5 down-regulated) in LV and 106 genes (102/4) in LA were altered. . Inflammatory genes were most up-regulated in the KC (47%) while fibrotic genes were most up-regulated in LA (71%). The >10 fold up-regulated genes in the in KC were IL6, LIF, CCL2, SERPINE1, VCAM1, BIRC3, IL8, ICAM1 and SELE while in the LA were COL1A1, COL3A1, TIMP1, IFNG, IL6, LIF, CCL2, CSF3, SERPINE1, CSF3, IL1B, VCAM1, BIRC3, and OSM. Importantly, genes related to renal injury were up-regulated in both KC and KM. Conclusions: Experimental HF was characterized by up-regulation of fibrotic, inflammatory, hypertrophic, and apoptotic genes globally in the heart and kidney, but inflammatory genes in the KC and fibrotic and inflammatory genes in LA were particularly affected. These data suggest targeted cardiorenal therapies, especially treatment for pathways of renal injury directed towards the kidney and of fibrosis directed towards the heart may be beneficial in the treatment of HF.
Combining efficient methods to detect spread of woody invaders in urban–rural matrix landscapes: an exploration using two species of Oleaceae

Summary 1. Early detection of biological invasions can reduce the costs of control and increase its e!cacy. Although much research focuses on the appearance or establishment of new invaders, few studies target the detection of spread from established populations. Managers of natural areas have limited resources; therefore, there is need for e!cient methods of quantifying the spread of likely invaders inlocal and regionalareas. 2. We employed homeowner surveys, seedling outplanting, directed seedling searches and randomly located plots to determine whether two introduced species of Oleaceae, Ligustrum lucidum and Olea europaea, demonstrate invasive levels of recruitment in California’s Sacramento Valley. These methodsare examples of low-costapproaches toexamining theregional spreadof non-native woodyspecieswithdi"eringhabitat requirements. 3. Homeowner surveys indicated abundant recruitment of L. lucidum in irrigated areas, with no evident decline by distance from horticultural source trees. Ligustrum lucidum seedlings established readily when planted immediately adjacent to streams, but were unable to survive summer drought whenlocated furtherfromthe water. 4. Recruitment of O. europaea at distances >100 m from source trees was uncommon. Spread of O. europaea is rare relative to the number of reproductive individuals that have been planted in the studyarea; whereitoccurs, seedling recruitmentappearslargelya function of propagulepressure. 5. Synthesis and applications. Low-cost and rapid methods are essential for successful long-term monitoring of spread from populations of introduced, woody plant species. We employed highe!ciency methods of spread detection for two species of Oleaceae with invasive potential and existing populations in the study region. We detected no barriers to spread by L. lucidum in areas with elevated soil moisture and consider the species a likely riparian invader. By comparison, O. europaea shows little tendency to spread. We suggest that managers combine low-input methods and direct surveys towards habitats of conservation concern and routes of likely seed dispersal.
Deterministic filtering for optimal attitude estimation on SO(3) using max-plus methods

In this article we introduce the use of recently developed min/max-plus techniques in order to solve the optimal attitude estimation problem in filtering for nonlinear systems on the special orthogonal (SO(3)) group. This work helps synthesize deterministic filters for nonlinear systems - i.e. optimal filters which estimate the system state using a related optimal control problem. The technique indicated herein is validated using a set of optimal attitude estimation example problems on SO(3).
Transferring Superfluid Helium in Space

A preliminary concept of a system for resupplying superfluid helium in space has been developed at NASA Ames Research Center. Such a system would greatly enhance several planned scientific missions. These include the Space Infrared Telescope Facility (SIRTF), Large Deployable Reflector (LDR), Gravity Probe-B (GP-B), Hubble Space Telescope (HST), and Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility (AXAF). Resupplying helium in orbit would extend the lifetime for each of these missions without the difficulties, delays, and costs associated with retrieving the system, resupplying on the ground, and relaunching. This is especially true of systems such as the LDR that are assembled in space. A simple thermodynamic model of a transfer system is presented and discussed. The different thermodynamic regimes that can be expected in the transfer line are also discussed. The relations between these regimes are used to evaluate the relative efficiencies of different transfer techniques that could be used with the transfer system. The efficient transfer of liquid helium requires a low heat leak into the transfer line, particularly at point sources such as the coupling. It is also shown that the proper selection of supply tank temperature is critical during helium resupply.
Re-Conceptualizing the Belmont Report

Abstract University-based researchers must seek Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval when their projects meet the human subjects regulations' definition of research. Regulations guiding IRBs are informed by the Belmont Report's (1979) ethical principles of respect for persons, beneficence, and justice. Debates exist about whether these principles apply to all research approaches. These debates prompted this study involving interviews with 10 community-based participatory researchers (CBPR). Interviewees identified ethical issues relevant to their research, interpreted the Belmont principles, and reflected upon the appropriateness of these principles. Constant Comparative Method guided data analysis. Differences exist between CBPR and the Belmont Report's conceptualizations of the ethical principles. The discussion includes suggestions to address these differences with the aim of strengthening the IRB process' relevance.
Increasing amounts of dietary fiber provided by foods normalizes physiologic response of the large bowel without altering calcium balance or fecal steroid excretion

Nine healthy, young men consumed constant diets to determine selected large-bowel, serum cholesterol and triacylglycerol, and calcium balance responses to 3 amounts of fiber provided by a mixture of fruit, vegetables, and grains. The diets, each consumed for 1 mo, contained 16, 30, and 42 g total fiber/d, of which 2.9, 4.8, and 7.7 g, respectively, was soluble. Mean daily wet and dry stool weights increased with each fiber addition. The first fiber addition increased defecation frequency and decreased fecal pH, bile acid concentration, and neutral steroid concentration; the second addition had no further effect. Mean weight of each defecation and stool moisture did not increase and serum cholesterol and triacylglycerol concentrations, calcium balance, and gastrointestinal transit time did not decrease as fiber intake increased. We conclude that 1) fiber provided by a mixed-food diet increases stool weight as effectively as does wheat or oat bran; 2) even high amounts of dietary fiber do not change transit time or defecation frequency if they are already approximately 1 and 2-3 d, respectively; 3) food patterns consistent with the food pyramid and incorporating legumes and whole grains are necessary to achieve recommended fiber intakes of 20-35 g/d, even if energy intake is > 12.55 MJ (3000 kcal); 4) soluble fiber provided by a mixture of whole foods has no effect on serum cholesterol concentrations or output of fecal bile acids; and 5) mixed-food fiber has little effect on calcium balance when calcium intakes are high (> or = 1.5 g/d).
Phylogeny and evolution of the Neotropical rodent genus Calomys : Inferences from mitochondrial DNA sequence data

Field mice of the genus Calomys are small, mostly granivorous rodents common to several habitats in South America. To date, phylogenies for the genus have been proposed on the basis of morphological, chromosomal, and biochemical data, often with contradictory results due to incomplete species sampling or methodological shortcomings. In this paper, we propose relationships among 10 species of Calomys based on the complete cytochrome b gene sequence. Our analyses show that Calomys is constituted by two major clades, one mostly associated with mountain habitats with subsequent invasions to lowland habitats and another with species restricted to lowland habitats both north and south of the Amazon basin. The evolution of the genus was likely accompanied by a reduction of chromosome diploid numbers that occurred independently in each of the two evolutionary lineages. A "clock" calibrated on the split between Auliscomys and Loxodontomys suggests that the almost nonexistent fossil record for the genus greatly underestimates divergence times among its species.
Lost Childhoods: The Plight Of The Parentified Child

Part I Understanding: mapping the territory a causal model of destructive parentification consequences - parentified children and their families. Part II Treatment: evaluating childhood parentification - the I-D-C model treating destructively parentified children and their families - systematic and ethical perspectives breaking the deadlock - the case of Jamie parentified children grown up - treating destructive parentification in couples wounded healer - from parentified child to helping professional preventing destructive parentification.
A Comparison of Passive–Aggressive and Negativistic Personality Disorders

Passive-aggressive personality disorder (PAPD) has historically played an important role in clinical theorizing and was diagnosable prior to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed. [DSM-IV]; American Psychiatric Association, 1994), in which the construct was relabeled negativistic (NEGPD), expanded to include negative affective symptoms, and appendicized. In this study we tested the hypothesis that the expansion of PAPD to include content related to negative moods and nonspecific personality pathology compromised its discriminant validity. In an undergraduate sample (N = 1,215), a self-report measure of PAPD was only moderately related to NEGPD and showed less diagnostic overlap with other personality disorders than NEGPD. Furthermore, a conjoint factor analysis yielded a strong first factor (moodiness) that appeared less specific to passive-aggressive behavior than 3 other factors (irresponsibility, inadequacy, and contempt). We conclude that future research on this potentially important clinical construct should focus on core passive-aggressive features and abandon the negativistic content that has been added to it in successive editions of the DSM.
Gender differences in the comorbidity of smoking behavior and major depression

Objective The present investigation sought to determine whether smoking behavior was associated with current or lifetime major depression and whether this association was greater in women.
Managing Public Forests: Understanding the Role of Collaborative Planning

As federal land management agencies such as the USDA Forest Service increasingly choose to implement collaborative methods of public participation, research is needed to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the technique, to identify barriers to effective implementation of collaborative processes, and to provide recommendations for increasing its effectiveness. This paper reports on the findings of two studies focused on the experiences of Forest Service employees and their external partners as they work to implement collaborative planning processes in national forest management. The studies show both similarities and differences between agency employees and their partners in terms of how they evaluate their collaborative experi- ences. The studies reveal that both Forest Service employ- ees and external partners are supportive of collaborative planning and expect it to continue in the future, both see the trust and relationships built during the process as being its greatest benefit, and both see the Forest Service's organiza- tional culture as the biggest barrier to effective collaborative efforts. The groups differed in terms of evaluating each oth- er's motivation for participating in the process and in whether the process was a good use of time and resources, with ex- ternal partners seeing it as too drawn out and expensive. The paper concludes with a discussion of the policy implica- tions and changes necessary to increase the effectiveness of collaborative efforts within the Forest Service and other federal land management agencies. Throughout the academic literature and main- stream media there are debates about the condition of democracy and the roles of citizens and the federal government in the United States today. These debates range from the beliefs that the ''public'' does not exist anymore—that the citizenry has abandoned public life and public consciousness, leaving the responsibility for governance to the government (c.f., Mathews 1984) to those who feel the government stands in the way of citizens and should allow individuals more freedom to make their own governance decisions (c.f., Sandel 1996). From a more conceptual perspective, these debates are frequently couched in terms of communitar- ian versus libertarian forms of democracy. The latter espouses the freedom of the individual while the former emphasizes the responsibility of individuals as a mem- bers of communities and society (Etzioni 1995).
Follow‐up of neck and shoulder pain among sewing machine operators: The Los Angeles garment study

Background The aim of the present study is to explore factors affecting or modifying self-reported neck/shoulder pain in sewing machine operators. Methods We investigated self-report neck/shoulder pain in 247 workers who participated in a 4-month prospective intervention study for musculoskeletal disorders. All participants were immigrants. We examine the influence of individual and work-related factors on changes in neck/shoulder pain during follow-up employing linear mixed models with time-spline functions. Results We observed a dramatic decline (72%) in self-reported pain intensity in the first month of follow-up, followed by a small increase from the first to fourth month (4% per month). Workers who perceived and reported their physical workload as high or worked overtime experienced less overall pain reduction. Higher baseline pain intensity, being of Hispanic ethnicity (vs. Asian), and taking cumulative daily rest time during work of 35 min or more allowing for muscles to rest were associated with a larger pain reduction in the first month, but not thereafter. Conclusion Our findings indicate that some work-related factors may be of clinical relevance for reducing neck/shoulder pain. Having lower physical workloads and less overtime work should be considered when treating patients or planning workplace interventions for managing work-related musculoskeletal disorders in this underserved immigrant population. Am. J. Ind. Med. 53:352–360, 2010. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.