cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Serum alpha-fetoprotein level per total tumor volume as a predictor of recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma after resection.

Abstract Background Alpha-fetoprotein has been used as a predictor of recurrence for hepatocellular carcinoma and disease-free survival post-resection. Studies in East Asia have shown that serum alpha-fetoprotein per total tumor volume ratio is a better prognostic indicator than alpha-fetoprotein alone. Similar studies in the United States evaluating serum alpha-fetoprotein to total tumor volume ratio have not been conducted. Its relevance is incompletely understood. Methods Consecutive patients undergoing resection for hepatocellular carcinoma at a single tertiary center between 2000 and 2013 were identified for inclusion in this retrospective cohort study. Patient demographics, associated liver disease, Child-Pugh and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease scores, preoperative imaging, surgical pathology, alpha-fetoprotein at diagnosis, last alpha-fetoprotein before surgery, and peak alpha-fetoprotein levels were recorded. Actual tumor volume by imaging volumetrics was used when available (n = 70). For the remaining cases, total tumor volume was calculated using the sum of the volumes of all the tumors ((4/3)πr3) where “r” is the mean radius of each lesion. Peak serum alpha-fetoprotein was used to calculate the alpha-fetoprotein to total tumor volume ratio. Results A total of 124 patients resected for hepatocellular carcinoma between 2000 and 2013 were identified. Overall 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival post resection was 76%, 53%, and 35%, respectively. On multivariate analysis, peak alpha-fetoprotein to total tumor volume ratio > 20 (P Conclusion A variety of prognostic values predict the recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma postresection. Peak preoperative alpha-fetoprotein to total tumor volume > 20 and lymphovascular space invasion has been shown to predict recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma. Our study confirms findings from East Asian studies. But larger series are needed to establish this correlation in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma not treated by resection.
Playing the Melanoma Endgame.

Treatments for melanoma are of two main types: targeted therapies and immune checkpoint inhibitors. However, both are only effective in a subset of patients and are limited by acquired resistance. Here, the authors present the preclinical basis to broadly target different forms of therapy-resistant melanoma.
Methods for Collection and Characterization of Samples From Icy Environments

Environments where the prevailing temperature is below 0°C include both solid (frozen) substrates, such as glacier ice and permafrost, and liquid environments such as cold springs and cryopegs. Some of these environments have low solute concentrations, whereas others have very high levels of salts and other solutes, with corresponding freezing point depression. Some have high microbial density, while others represent the limits of cell survival. All of these present specific challenges for identifying microorganisms by direct imaging or -omics techniques. In this chapter, we discuss specific cryoenvironments—sea ice, glacier ice, and permafrost—and begin with issues of sampling, from researcher safety to sample contamination and osmotic shock. We then present methods for imaging both live and fixed specimens. These include methods that may be performed in the field, such as light, fluorescence, and holographic microscopy, as well as methods that are performed upon sample return to the laboratory, such as confocal and electron microscopy. Microscope designs for field use are presented and discussed. Considerations of sample return are also presented in the context of downstream analysis.
The Merit of Principal Component Analysis in fMRI Language Pattern Recognition for Pediatric Epilepsy

Atypical language activation pattern analysis is of significant clinical relevance in neuroscience research, especially when surgical interventions are deemed necessary. Epilepsy patient populations provide a means for validating these methods because of known heterogeneity of language dominance. Florida International University (FIU), in collaboration with 13 worldwide health care institutions, has established a multisite repository for language re-organization analysis on normal and pediatric epilepsy fMRI data. Quantitative region of interest (ROI) analysis, Laterality Index (LI) calculation, and visual rating are common methods for determining language dominance. Limitations of subjective ROI analysis with priori assumption or subjective visual rating motivate us to seek a data-driven method. Here we propose a new configuration and application of the Principal Component Analysis for fMRI language activation pattern recognition among a heterogeneous population. The top eigenvectors are proposed to objectively automate the recognition of ROI among fMRI datasets. 122 subjects’ fMRI activation maps were processed, visually rated by clinical investigators. ROI identified through the PCA-based method generally encompass Broca’s and Wernicke’s areas. fMRI datasets masked by the ROI were applied as input to the proposed PCA method. Different numbers of top eigenvectors were examined in comparison to their spatial distributions of LI and their respective visual ratings. These PCA-based brain activation distributions suggest a potential of using eigenvectors to separate and classify fMRI language activation patterns.
Versatile Uranyl Germanate Framework Hosting 12 Different Alkali Halide 1D Salt Inclusions

Single crystals of 13 new uranyl germanate salt-inclusion materials were grown from alkali halide fluxes: [Cs2Cs5F][(UO2)3(Ge2O7)2] (1), [Cs6Ag2Cl2][(UO2)3(Ge2O7)2] (2), [Cs6Ag0.3Na1.7Cl2][(UO2)3(Ge2O7)2] (3), [Cs6Ag0.4Na1.6Cl2][(UO2)3(Ge2O7)2] (4), [Cs6K2Cl2][(UO2)3(Ge2O7)2] (5), [Cs6K1.9Ag0.1Cl2][(UO2)3(Ge2O7)2] (6), [KK6Cl][(UO2)3(Ge2O7)2] (7), [KK6Br0.6F0.4][(UO2)3(Ge2O7)2] (8), [Na0.9Rb6.1F][(UO2)3(Ge2O7)2] (9), [K0.6Na0.4K5CsCl0.5F0.5][(UO2)3(Ge2O7)2] (10), [K0.8Na0.2K4.8Cs1.2Cl0.5F0.5][(UO2)3(Ge2O7)2] (11), [KK1.8Cs4.2F][(UO2)3(Ge2O7)2] (12), and [Cs6Cs0.71Cl0.71][(UO2)3O3(Ge2O7)] (13). Structures 1–12 contain the same [(UO2)3(Ge2O7)2]6– framework whose pores are filled with varied salt species selected by the choice of the specific alkali halide flux used for crystal growth. The size and identity of the salt species also influence whether the [(UO2)3(Ge2O7)2]6– framework adopts a monoclinic or orthorhombic symmetry. The 13th composition, [Cs6Cs0.71Cl0.71][(UO2)3O3(Ge2O7)] (13), crystallizes in a n...
Surgical strategies to reduce recurrence in Crohn's disease

Almost from the time of initial description of Crohn's disease 85 years ago, it has been known that surgical resection is not curative. The disease invariably recurs. Over this period of time, numerous strategies have been proposed in an attempt to reduce the recurrence rate, or delay the development of recurrent disease. The purpose of this review is to examine a number of strategies and to evaluate their effectiveness. It also aims to look at what might lie ahead in the future. This review consists of an English language literature search to identify previous studies that have proposed various surgical strategies to reduce the recurrence rate following surgery for Crohn's disease. A number of surgical strategies have been proposed including widening the resection margins, changing the type of anastomosis, use of laparoscopy, and most recently, resecting wide mesenteric margins. To date, none of these strategies has proven to be effective in reducing recurrence rates. Although a surgical strategy to reduce recurrence in Crohn's disease has not been identified, there are currently investigators looking at other possibilities that may be shown to be effective in the future.
Reexamination of the edge crack torsion test for determining the mode III delamination toughness of laminated composites

Abstract The edge crack torsion (ECT) test is reexamined to address two primary concerns with this method. The first of these relates to inconsistencies in the data reduction procedure that was originally proposed and is most commonly used to compute the mode III interlaminar fracture toughness, GIIIc, from the experimental data. The second relates to the observation that plies neighboring the preimplanted insert in the standard ECT layup are unable to contain initiation and growth of intralaminar cracks, and that growth of these cracks contributes to errors in the apparent values of GIIIc. To address these issues, an alternative data reduction technique, which uses a polynomial expression to represent the ECT specimen’s compliance versus crack length relation, is proposed. The accuracy and potential drawbacks of this expression are investigated using FE simulations. Next, seven groups of ECT specimens are fabricated and tested. Each of these groups contains specimens with preimplanted inserts that are bounded by plies at different +θ and −θ orientations. The seven groups consist of values of θ that vary from 0° to 90° in 15° increments. Tests on these specimens show that intralaminar cracking occurs in specimens from all batches except those for which θ equals 15° or 30°. However, values of GIIIc measured using specimens with these two ply orientations were not equal and, for θ = 30°, the values of GIIIc that were obtained were not completely independent of initial starter crack length. Potential issues accounting for these observations and other challenges associated with measuring GIIIc using the ECT test are discussed.
DeepDDK: A Deep Learning based Oral-Diadochokinesis Analysis Software

Oromotor dysfunction caused by neurological disorders can result in significant speech and swallowing impairments. Current diagnostic methods to assess oromotor function are subjective and rely on perceptual judgments by clinicians. In particular, the widely used oral-diadochokinesis (oral-DDK) test, which requires rapid, alternate repetitions of speech-based syllables, is conducted and interpreted differently among clinicians. It is therefore prone to inaccuracy, which results in poor test reliability and poor clinical application. In this paper, we present a deep learning based software to extract quantitative data from the oral DDK signal, thereby transforming it into an objective diagnostic and treatment monitoring tool. The proposed software consists of two main modules: a fully automated syllable detection module and an interactive visualization and editing module that allows inspection and correction of automated syllable units. The DeepDDK software was evaluated on speech files corresponding to 9 different DDK syllables (e.g., “Pa”, “Ta”, “Ka”). The experimental results show robustness of both syllable detection and localization across different types of DDK speech tasks.
A new ammonite faunal horizon in the Ovale Zone (Middle Jurassic, Lower Bajocian) and observations on the ammonite genus Sonninia at Coombe Quarry, Mapperton, near Beaminster, Dorset

Abstract Biostratigraphy is presented for horizons in the Discites to Sauzei zones at Coombe Quarry and Top Field at Mapperton, Dorset. The significance of these horizons is highlighted. Part of a chronocline is described in the Sonniniidae of the Discites Zone. A new ammonite faunal horizon, Docidoceras higginsi sp. nov. is erected as the oldest of the Ovale Zone. A revised subdivision of the zone is presented and the implications for the taxonomy and biogeography of the Stephanoceratidae is discussed. The distribution of Docidoceras may imply entry to western Tethys via a Hispanic Corridor. A method is presented for the allocation of generic names constituting segments of lineages.
Disparities in neoadjuvant radiation dosing for treatment of rectal cancer.

Abstract Background Certain patients are less likely to undergo appropriate cancer treatment, worsening their overall cancer survival. The purpose of this investigation was to identify factors associated with inadequate neoadjuvant radiation for rectal cancer. Methods The National Cancer Database was queried for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer who received neoadjuvant radiation 2006–2014. Adequate radiation was considered to be 4,500-5,040 cGy. Demographic, hospital and clinical variables were analyzed for association with inadequate radiation. Results The study cohort was 34,391 patients; 1,842(5.4%) received inadequate radiation. On multivariate analysis, female gender, older age, other race, government-provided insurance, lower clinical stage and rural location correlated with inadequate radiation. Conclusions Women were 50% less likely than men to receive correct neoadjuvant radiation dosing. Other factors including age, race, insurance, clinical stage, geographic location and neoadjuvant chemotherapy were significantly associated with radiation dosing. These factors should be evaluated to determine if they can be modified to improve outcomes.
Movements and habitat use of loons for assessment of conservation buffer zones in the Arctic Coastal Plain of northern Alaska

Abstract Oil and gas development in the Arctic Coastal Plain, Alaska, may pose threats to wildlife. Management guidelines within the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska dictate buffer zones for coastal wildlife habitat and for breeding and foraging sites of yellow-billed loons (YBLOs; Gavia adamsii), a species of conservation concern. However, few data exist to assess the value of these buffer zones for YBLOs or for sympatrically breeding red-throated loons (RTLOs; G. stellata) and Pacific loons (PALOs; G. pacifica). We evaluated movements of these loons on the Arctic Coastal Plain to understand: 1) seasonal timing; 2) marine habitat use; and 3) spatial characteristics of breeding home ranges. We then used those findings to evaluate current management strategies in the context of loon biology. Compared to RTLOs and PALOs, YBLOs nested on larger lakes, stayed on them longer, had larger home ranges, but less frequently used the marine environment in summer. During autumn, YBLOs and PALOs were located farther from shore than during spring or summer, whereas RTLOs used the marine environment similarly during all three seasons. Management buffers established for YBLO nesting areas corresponded well with nest site space use of all three species, suggesting cross-taxa applicability of current management guidelines for nesting habitat. However, the majority of loon locations on the Arctic Coastal Plain were outside of coastal buffer zones established to protect fish and wildlife habitat within the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska. These findings can inform assessment of conservation buffer zones to mitigate anthropogenic disturbance to loons in Alaska.
Comparison of Clinical Characteristics and Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Salivary Glands With Magnetic Resonance Sialography in Sjögren's Syndrome.

Objectives/hypothesis To compare the results of magnetic resonance imaging with magnetic resonance sialography (MRSIAL) and the clinical and laboratory characteristics in a well-characterized cohort of patients with primary or secondary Sjogren's syndrome (SS) meeting the American-European Consensus Group criteria. Study design Retrospective, observational, monocentric study. Methods Thirty-six patients (81% female, mean age = 48 ± 35 years) with primary or secondary SS who underwent MRSIAL were included in the study. Results MRSIAL revealed characteristic radiological signs in the parotid, sublingual, and submandibular salivary glands in 35/36 patients (97%). Patients presenting with anti-Sjogren's syndrome-related antigen A (SSA) autoantibodies showed more often fatty infiltration, a "pepper-and-salt" appearance, ductal stenosis, and/or ductal dilation of the parotid gland (88%, 88%, and 72% respectively) than patients negative for anti-SSA (12%, 4%, and 28% respectively). MRSIAL demonstrated signs characteristic of SS in all 11 patients with negative minor salivary gland biopsy. For 15 patients undergoing ultrasound examination only, 11 (73%) had SS findings, but all 15 had SS findings on MRSIAL. Two cases of parotid lymphoma were detected by MRSIAL (6%). Conclusions MRSIAL is a reliable technique to detect glandular anomalies in patients with SS, and seems to provide a valuable aid in the diagnosis of SS. Level of evidence 4 Laryngoscope, 131:E83-E89, 2021.
Creating Global Citizens through Encounters with Asia—The Making of the Modern World Program at Eleanor Roosevelt College, UCSD

This article describes the “Making of the Modern World” program, a liberal arts curriculum in a public university. Thirty years ago Eleanor Roosevelt College at the University of California, San Diego, developed a multi-disciplinary liberal arts core curriculum called the Making of the Modern World. The history and cultures of Asia were a major part of that curriculum. As one of the developers of the curriculum, I now reflect on the program both as a success story and cautionary tale. I will recount why we developed this kind of liberal arts curriculum, how we did it, how well it did or did not work, how it has changed over the years, and what lessons this experience might have for us today. I argue that liberal arts colleges can learn from our efforts at creating such a curriculum in a large research university, but all should beware of taking on our educational deficiencies.
Trends in Heart Failure-related Cardiovascular Mortality in Rural Versus Urban Counties in the United States, 2011-2018

Introduction Mortality rates due to heart failure (HF) have increased since 2011, but estimates of heterogeneity at the county-level in HF-related mortality are not known. Differences between rural and urban counties and the impact of county-level factors on HF-related mortality are needed to inform public health strategies. Hypotheses Substantial variation in HF-related mortality trends between 2011-2018 exists by rural-urban designation. In addition, county-level factors account for a large proportion rural-urban differences in HF-related mortality rates. Methods We queried CDC WONDER to identify HF deaths between 2011-2018 defined as any mention of HF (I50) on the death certificate and cardiovascular disease (I00-78) as the underlying cause of death. First, we calculated age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMR) and examined trends stratified by rural-urban status (defined using 2013 NCHS Urban-Rural Classification Scheme), age (35-64 and 65-84 years), and race-sex subgroups per year. Second, we combined all deaths from 2011-2018 and estimated incidence rate ratios (IRR) in HF-related mortality for rural versus urban counties using multivariable negative binomial regression models with adjustment for sociodemographic factors, risk factor prevalence, and physician density. Results Between 2011-2018, AAMRs were consistently higher for rural compared with urban counties (e.g., 73.2 [95% CI: 72.2-74.2] vs. 57.2 [56.8-57.6] in 2018, respectively). The highest AAMR was observed in rural black men (131.1 [123.3-138.9] in 2018), and the greatest increases in HF-related mortality occurred in rural black men, age 35-64 years (+6.1%/year). Unadjusted models demonstrated significantly higher HF-related mortality in rural versus urban counties across the entire study period (IRR = 1.67 [95% CI: 1.57-1.78] and 1.16 [95% CI: 1.13-1.18] for younger and older adults, respectively). The rural-urban IRR was significantly attenuated after adjustment for county-level factors among both younger (1.10 [1.04-1.16]) and older adults (1.04 [1.02-1.07]). Conclusions Differences in county-level factors account for a significant amount of the observed variation in HF-related mortality between rural and urban counties.
The Development of a Bereavement Support Group Curriculum for Young Adults Dealing with the Death of a Partner: A Quality Improvement Project

Purpose: Little is known about the bereavement needs of young adults (YAs) whose partners have died from cancer. Historically, research about the impact of widowhood has focused on adults in later life. We adapted a bereavement support group curriculum used with older adults to address the unique needs of younger bereaved partners. Methods: Applying a quality improvement framework, nine bereaved YAs whose partners had recently died participated in a 6-session bereavement support group program. The participants completed an evaluation and provided feedback throughout the program. Results: The participants were six females and three males (30-43 years). The average time since the death of their partner was 7 months and four participants had dependent children. The participants evaluated the program highly, reporting they felt less isolated (4.75/5 on a 5-point Likert Scale); their concerns were similar to others (5/5); and the discussion topics were relevant to their situation (4.75/5). Additional topics for the next version of the curriculum included maintaining a relationship with in-laws, being a "solo parent," and dating. The participants also wanted the program to be extended given they had little contact with other bereaved partners. Based on this feedback, we converted the program into a drop-in group format meeting every 3 weeks, accepting new participants on a rolling basis. In parallel with the drop-in group, we plan to offer a revised 8-session bereavement support group twice a year. Conclusion: This pilot demonstrated that the bereavement support group curriculum for older bereaved adults was readily adapted for use with younger bereaved partners.
Pediatric adrenal incidentaloma

Abstract Adrenal incidentalomas are a rare finding in children. In adults, adrenal incidentalomas are often found during imaging or postmortem. When incidentally discovered in adults, the principles of management focus on estimating risk of malignancy, with subsequent treatment plans developed accordingly. Unfortunately, these guidelines are not applicable to children due to the difficulty in differentiating benign and malignant adrenal masses on imaging. For this reason, most pediatric adrenal masses are surgically excised. We present the case of a 14-year-old male who had imaging for nonspecific abdominal pain and was found to have a left-sided retroperitoneal mass suspicious for a retroperitoneal teratoma. Given the proximity to the adrenal gland, a hormonal workup was nonetheless performed with no evidence of abnormal hormonal activity noted. During laparoscopic intervention, this lesion was found to be originating from the adrenal gland raising suspicion for an adrenal mass and a laparoscopic left adrenalectomy was performed. Histology of the mass revealed a heterogenous mass with components concerning for adrenal cortical adenoma, myelolipoma and adrenocortical carcinoma. A more in-depth analysis of the mass using expert opinion revealed a diagnosis of adrenal cortical adenoma with hyaline myxoid stroma and secondary involutional features.
The Bureaucratic Afterlife of the Controlled Substances Act

Fifty years after its enactment, it is clear that in key respects, the original aims of the Controlled Substances Act, and the larger statutory scheme of which it was a part, have not been realized. Intended to reduce demand through investments in treatment and prevention programs, demand-reduction expenditures instead trailed supply-reduction expenditures for decades. Designed to steer federal criminal enforcement towards high level traffickers and kingpins, today’s federal prisons are filled with nonviolent, relatively lower-level offenders. What explains this divergence? This essay locates a contributing source in the organizational dynamics of federal agency advancement. Twelve different executive branch agencies are tasked with responsibility for reducing drug supply or demand (or both), and they operate under diverse constraints, incentives and pressures. Collectively, these dynamics have generated a political economy of federal drug control that values outputs over outcomes and rewards autonomous agency decision-making over collective action. In turn, that economy pushes federal drug control towards criminal enforcement and away from other potentially more effective methods. The essay concludes with suggestions for reform. More broadly, it offers an account of the interaction between federal drug legislation and the institutional actors who bring it to life—illuminating the many ways in which bureaucratic dynamics have, both intentionally and inadvertently, “made” federal drug control policy on the ground.
TOOL OR LENS? WORLDVIEW THEORY AND CHRISTIAN CONSERVATIVE LEGAL ACTIVISM

This article combines historical and philosophical analysis to examine and critique the ideas motivating Christian conservative legal activism. Such activists routinely claim to be motivated by a Christian worldview, which they define as a comprehensive explanation of reality that determines all their thinking and action, including their legal activism and argumentation. Examination of the historical and philosophical roots of the concept of worldview identified by Christian thinkers reveals two understandings of the concept: an analytic tool for rationally comparing the evidence for different social philosophies, and a pre-theoretical lens that determines what counts as evidence in the first place. Christian conservatives have largely favored the first sense of worldview as a tool to understand issues like sexuality and gender identity in an essentialist way and to demonstrate with foundationalist logic the rational superiority of their legal conclusions about these issues. However, a comparison of the Christian conservative worldview and the queer theory worldview illustrates how this understanding of worldview as a tool fails because there is no neutral perspective outside of any worldview, from which one could examine and compare one to another. The idea of worldview as a pre-theoretical, historically, and socially contingent lens can be more productive. Embracing this notion of worldview in a personalist way is necessary to build a culture of dialogue that uses narrative to pursue the truth while also respecting and honoring the different perspectives from which these narratives are told.
Cardiac Device Management in Palliative Care

Deactivation of cardiac implanted electronic devices (CEID), like pacemakers and implantable cardioverter defibrillators, and left ventricular assist devices LVAD) can be met with confusion and uneasiness. This chapter aims to help clinicians understand CIED and LVAD deactivation and provides a step wise approach to guide providers, patients, and families through the process.
Indicators of Crash Risk in Older Adults: A Longitudinal Analysis From the ACTIVE Study.

Objective: This study aims to examine indicators of crash risk longitudinally in older adults (n = 486). Method: This study applied secondary data analyses of the 10 years of follow-up for the ACTI...
New Insights Into the Burden of COVID-19 Mortality for U.S. Hispanics and Blacks — When Examined by Country/Region of Origin

Background: Florida’s diverse population composition includes persons from throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. This facilitated an insightful examination of disparities in 2020 Florida COVID-19 deaths not only among racial/ethnic populations in the aggregate (non-Hispanic White, non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic) but also at the level of country/region of origin. Methods: Age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs) for 2020 Florida COVID-19 deaths were calculated by race, ethnicity, and country/region of origin along with mean age at death, mean number of comorbidities, and percentage of decedents who had not completed secondary education. Regression-derived mortality rate ratios (MRRs) compared death rates for each racial/ethnic/country-of-origin population to non-Hispanic whites. Findings: The overall AAMR (per 100,000) for 18,342 Florida COVID-19 deaths in 2020 was 55.4, with a much lower AAMR for non-Hispanic Whites (39.3) than for Hispanics (86.8) or Blacks (107.6). Marked differences in AAMRs were observed for specific Black and Hispanic ethnic groups from varied countries/regions of origin. COVID-19 decedents from Mexico and Central America had the highest AAMRs (170.7 and 168.8 per 100,000, respectively), lowest age at death, lowest educational level, and fewest comorbidities. Mean comorbidities were highest for Blacks (all origins) and Cuban Hispanics. Interpretation: Florida Blacks and Hispanics experienced disproportionately high COVID-19 mortality rates throughout 2020, with notable variability based on country/region of origin. Inequities were particularly pronounced for Hispanic populations from Mexico and Central America. To better understand these heterogeneous COVID-19 mortality trends, more nuanced racial-ethnic analyses and detailed data on social determinants of health are needed. Funding Information: Supplemental funding was provided by the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. Research reported in this publication was also supported by the National Cancer Institute of the National Institutes of Health under Award Number P30CA240139. Declaration of Interests: The authors declare no potential conflicts of interests.
Local fluid shear stress operates a molecular switch to drive fetal semilunar valve extension.

BACKGROUND While much is known about the genetic regulation of early valvular morphogenesis, mechanisms governing fetal valvular growth and remodeling remain unclear. Hemodynamic forces strongly influence morphogenesis, but it is unknown whether or how they interact with valvulogenic signaling programs. Side-specific activity of valvulogenic programs motivates the hypothesis that shear stress pattern-specific endocardial signaling controls the elongation of leaflets. RESULTS We determined that extension of the semilunar valve occurs via fibrosa sided endocardial proliferation. Low OSS was necessary and sufficient to induce canonical Wnt/β-catenin activation in fetal valve endothelium, which in turn drives BMP receptor/ligand expression, and pSmad1/5 activity essential for endocardial proliferation. In contrast, ventricularis endocardial cells expressed active Notch1 but minimal pSmad1/5. Endocardial monolayers exposed to LSS attenuate Wnt signaling in a Notch1 dependent manner. CONCLUSIONS Low OSS is transduced by endocardial cells into canonical Wnt signaling programs that regulate BMP signaling and endocardial proliferation. In contrast, high LSS induces Notch signaling in endocardial cells, inhibiting Wnt signaling and thereby restricting growth on the ventricular surface. Our results identify a novel mechanically regulated molecular switch, whereby fluid shear stress drives the growth of valve endothelium, orchestrating the extension of the valve in the direction of blood flow.
Beitrag von Umweltszenarien zur Zukunftssicherung von Unternehmen und Staat — Theorie und Anwendungserfahrungen

Der Arbeitsablauf von Szenario-Untersuchungen wird nach einer Definition der Szenario-Technik beschrieben, wie er sich bereits bewahrt hat. Hinsichtlich wesentlicher anwendungsorientierter Merkmale werden Szenarien quantitativen OR-Verfahren der Zukunftsforschung, insbesondere Simulationsverfahren, gegenubergestellt. Anschliesend werden OR-Verfahren aufgefuhrt, die im Rahmen von Szenarien u.U. sinnvoll eingesetzt werden konnen, z.B. Paktoren-, Regressions- und Clusteranalysen, Bewertungs- und Entscheidungstechniken, Wahrscheinlichkeitstheorie und Strukturierungsverfahren.
A Review of “Scientists in the Legal System”

The editor of this compact volume seeks to relate scientists to the legal process in a meaningful manner—as essential contributors not as tolerated meddlers. He succeeds. By a judicious selection of authors who are practicing lawyers or practicing scientists, the editor has illuminated the traditional use of science by the law to prove facts. He has, in addition, emphasized the progressive utilization of science by the administration of justice to achieve a life of quality both for the individual and for society.
A Noun Phrase Analysis Tool for Mining Online Community Conversations

Online communities are creating a growing legacy of texts in online bulletin board postings, chat, blogs, etc. These texts record conversation, knowledge exchange, and variation in focus as groups grow, mature, and decline; they represent a rich history of group interaction and an opportunity to explore the purpose and development of online communities. However, the quantity of data created by these communities is vast, and to address their processes in a timely manner requires automated processes. This raises questions about how to conduct automated analyses, and what can we gain from them: Can we gain an idea of community interests, priorities, and operation from automated examinations of texts of postings and patterns of posting behavior? Can we mine stored texts to discover patterns of language and interaction that characterize a community?
Further Evidence for Celiac Disease-associated Chorea.

Background: A number of neurological conditions have been reported to be associated with gluten sensitivity, including ataxia, peripheral neuropathy, epilepsy, and occasionally, chorea. The pathogenic role of anti-gliadin antibodies has been questioned, and pathophysiology remains controversial. Case Report: I report chorea in a patient with celiac disease, which responded to a gluten-restricted diet. The response of the movement disorder to change in diet strongly suggests a functional role for anti-gliadin antibodies in the generation of chorea, probably involving basal ganglia targets. Discussion: Gluten sensitivity may be a treatable cause of chorea.
Solar Variability and the Earth's Climate: Introduction and Overview

Numerous attempts have been made over the years to link various aspects of solar variability to changes in the Earth's climate. There has been growing interest in this possible connection in recent years, spurred largely by the need to understand the natural causes of climate change, against which the expected global warming due to man's activities will have to be detected. The time scale of concern here is that of decades to centuries, and excludes the longer millennial scale in which orbital variations play a dominant role. The field has long been plagued by the lack of an acceptable physical mechanism by which solar variability can affect climate, but the discovery of variability in the Sun's total irradiance (the solar “constant” of meteorology) by spacecraft instruments has pointed to a direct mechanism. Other less direct mechanisms that have been suggested involve variations in the Sun's ultraviolet flux and in the plasma outflow of the solar wind. The purpose of this paper is to summarize the current state of the field, emphasizing the proposed mechanisms as an introduction to the more detailed papers that follow. The particular case of sea-surface temperature data will be used as an illustration.
An Efficient Electricity Generation Forecasting System Using Artificial Neural Network Approach with Big Data

The fact that the United States (U.S.) enjoys a large geographical diversity among states with enormous amount of power consumption makes it challenging to centralize a power management system that can control the power generation and regulate the consumption. Due to lack of centralized control, there is a large imbalance in the ratio of power consumption/power generation from one state to the next. This imbalance results in wasting of large quantities of power generated in states where generation exceeds consumption significantly, whereas other states are suffering from insufficient amount of power generation. Power generation is in direct correlation with the amount of resources used to generate the power. In this paper, we propose a power generation forecasting scheme that could predict the amount of power required at a rate closer to the power consumption. The proposed scheme uses Big Data analytics to process power management data collected in the past 20 years for each state. It then uses a Neural Network (NN) model to train the system for prediction of future power generation based on the collected data. Simulation shows that the proposed scheme can predict power generation close to 99% of the actual usage.
Stress–Strength Model

In this paper, we consider estimation of reliability for stress-strength models. Nonparametric, parametric, and Bayesian inferences are considered. The problems related to the exponential distribution are given in detail. Keywords: reliability; stress-strength model; complex systems; k-out-of-p system; normal distribution; exponential distribution; nonparametric inference; parametric inference; Bayesian inference
Generation of fiducial marker dictionaries using Mixed Integer Linear Programming

Square-based fiducial markers are one of the most popular approaches for camera pose estimation due to its fast detection and robustness. In order to maximize their error correction capabilities, it is required to use an inner binary codification with a large inter-marker distance. This paper proposes two Mixed Integer Linear Programming (MILP) approaches to generate configurable square-based fiducial marker dictionaries maximizing their inter-marker distance. The first approach guarantees the optimal solution, however, it can only be applied to relatively small dictionaries and number of bits since the computing times are too long for many situations. The second approach is an alternative formulation to obtain suboptimal dictionaries within restricted time, achieving results that still surpass significantly the current state of the art methods. HighlightsThe paper proposes two methods to obtain fiducial markers based on the MILP paradigm.First model guarantees the optimality in terms of inter-marker distance.Second model generates suboptimal markers within restricted time.The markers generated allow the correction of a higher amount of erroneous bits.
A review of adherence to the guidelines for coronary CT angiography quantitative stenosis grading thresholds in published research.

AbstractBackground: The degree of coronary stenosis of potential hemodynamic significance is central to the interpretation of coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA), but has been variably defined in the literature. Societal guidelines have attempted to address this issue via recommended thresholds. Objectives: We surveyed the various thresholds for defining significant coronary stenosis reported in research published since the introduction of the Society for Cardiovascular Computed Tomography guidelines regarding the interpretation and reporting of CCTA. Methods: We systematically reviewed the results of bibliographic searches of all original research articles on CCTA, focusing on studies reporting > 25 subjects, to assess the definitions of severity of coronary lesions as found on CCTA. To enable comparisons, we stratified the methods of reporting lesion severity into ≥ 50%, 50% to 69%, and “others” (including infrequent reporting methods). Results: Fifty-nine11 published studies were identified...
Unified spatial diversity combining and power allocation schemes for CDMA systems

In a wireless system, fading effects can be classified into large-scale effects and small-scale effects. We use power control to compensate for large-scale fading and exploit spatial diversity to combat small-scale fading. We characterize the SIR and our results show that when each user's small-scale fading effects are independent across the antennas, there is a clear separation between the gains of power control and diversity combining, and the two gains are additive (in decibels). We then characterise the Pareto-optimal transmission power allocation.
Cutting Edge: A Single MHC Class Ia Is Sufficient for CD8 Memory T Cell Differentiation

Recent studies have suggested a role for MHC class Ib molecules in providing signals for memory T cell differentiation during the early phases of acute infection. To test this hypothesis, we assessed the development of effector and memory CD8 T cells in transgenic mice expressing a single chain H-2Dd/β2-microglobulin (β2M) fusion protein on a β2M-deficient background. These mice thus express a single MHC class Ia in the absence of all other β2M-dependent class Ia and Ib molecules. Following infection with a recombinant vaccinia virus expressing a known Dd-restricted epitope from HIV-1 gp160, the development of effector and memory cells CD8 T cells was comparable to control mice. Furthermore, these memory cells responded rapidly and robustly to antigenic restimulation. Therefore, we conclude that full CD8 memory differentiation requires only a single MHC class Ia chain, ruling out a requirement for MHC class Ib molecules in this process.
Prospects for Significant Nitrogen Fixation in Grasses From Bacterial Endophytes

Since the discovery of biological nitrogen fixation by Hellreigel and Willfarth (1888), there have been two primary goals of nitrogen-fixation research. The first has been to understand the mechanism of action of nitrogenase as a catalyst for N2 reduction to ammonia. One long-term objective of this goal is the chemical synthesis of an efficient catalyst for N2 reduction that could be used for the lowtemperature low-pressure synthesis of ammonia. The second goal involves the indepth understanding of the various associations between nitrogen-fixing bacteria and plants so that (i) the symbiotic association between the legume host and rhizobia can be improved for increased agricultural production and (ii) the delivery of fixed-N to non-legumes can be optimized. Recent progress in understanding the legume-rhizobia symbiosis has been very impressive and will not be reviewed here. It may be that this knowledge will lead to the induction of nitrogen-fixing root nodules on grasses, such as wheat and rice. However, the discovery of nitrogen fixation in sugarcane over a decade ago has captured the imagination of a growing group of scientists around the world and has led to the study of endophytic nitrogen-fixing bacteria. These are microbes that inhabit the interior of grasses without causing either disease or the induction of any organized symbiotic structures. The progress made to date in the nitrogen-fixation system of sugarcane was reviewed recently (Boddey et al., 2003; see also Chapter 10 of this volume) and will only be briefly summarized here. Several important questions are now being asked about both the sugarcane system and other endophyte-grass associations that provide high levels of fixed-N to
The electromagnetic theory of electrotonus along an unmyelinated axon

Abstract The question of electrotonus along an unmyelinated axon immersed in an infinite conducting solution is considered in a number of approximations. It is shown ( i ) that the lumped circuit and transverse solution techniques commonly employed to treat distributed network problems, lead in this instance to apparent inconsistencies, and ( ii ) that the transmission line model of the passive axon is therefore suspect. To resolve these difficulties, the scalar wave equation is solved in an appropriate model system, and it is discovered ( i ) that in cases of physiological interest the difference between the transmission line model and the exact model is just small enough to be insignificant functionally and undetectable experimentally, and ( ii ) that in cases slightly beyond this range the difference can become appreciable.
C1Approximations of Inertial Manifolds for Dissipative Nonlinear Equations

Abstract In this paper we study a class of nonlinear dissipative partial differential equations that have inertial manifolds. This means that the long-time behavior is equivalent to a certain finite system of ordinary differential equations. We investigate ways in which these finite systems can be approximated in theC1sense. Geometrically this may be interpreted as constructing manifolds in phase space that areC1close to the inertial manifold of the partial differential equation. Under such approximations the invariant hyperbolic sets of the global attractor persist.
The pH dependence of photosensory responses in Stentor coeruleus and model system

1. Live Stentor coeruleus exhibits a substantially red-shifted fluorescence maximum, corresponding to the anionic species of the photoreceptor chromophore. No change was observed in either the absorption or fluorescence excitation spectrum, indicating an efficient deprotonation of the photoreceptor pigment upon excitation by light. 2 Changes in external pH exhibit a dramatic effect on the pulmonary response of Stentor. Phototaxis is specifically inhibited at pH less than 6, with loss of photosensory perception which is restored when the pH is returned to pH greater than 6. 3. Fluorescence changes of 9-aminoacridine in suspensions of live Stentor indicate the generation of a pH gradient upon irradiation with light. Both pH gradient and phototaxis were inhibited by the addition of nigericin and p-tri-fluoromethoxy carbonyl cyanide phenylhydrazone (FCCP). 4. Incorporation of the Stentor photoreceptor protein in to artificial liposomes demonstrates the ability of the system to generate pH gradients across model membranes as monitored by the quenching of 9-aminoacridine fluorescence. The effect of external pH on net proton movement in the model system is strikingly similar to the pH dependent of the liver Stentor, thus lending support for transient proton flux being an important mode of light signal processing for photosensory transduction.
Women, sex, and food: A review of research on eating disorders and sexuality

There has long been a proposed link between sexuality and eating disorders. However, the empirical research on the potential relationship between sexual functioning and disordered eating generally ...
Physiology of Igd. II. Lack of humoral immune responsiveness in lymph nodes of mice treated with anti-IgD from birth.

Previous studies have shown that anti-IgD-suppressed mice give normal primary and secondary splenic plaque-forming cell responses following i.v. challenge, although mice suppressed by the injection of anti-IgD from birth lack IgD-bearing cells in all lymphoid tissue examined. The present studies show that, in contrast, secondary immune responses in regional lymph nodes of such mice, even after i.v. priming with trinitrophenylated B. abortus, respond to a challenge injection in the footpad up to only less than 10% of control levels. When compared with respect to B cell numbers transferred, primed spleen cells from control and anti-IgD-suppressed mice are about equally effective in producing adoptive secondary plaque-forming cell responses in the spleens of recipient mice. Lymph nodes in recipients of anti-IgD-suppressed primed spleen cells show much lower responses than do lymph nodes in recipients of control primed cells, both upon immediate and delayed challenge with antigen in the footpads. It is concluded that the immunodeficiency caused by suppression with anti-IgD is much more marked in peripheral lymph nodes than in the spleen. The possible relationship of these results to the migratory properties of IgD+ as compared to IgD-B cells is discussed.
Corn root dry matter and nitrogen distribution as determined by sampling multiple soil cores around individual plants

Abstract Although models of nitrogen (N) flow in agroecosystems describe total plant N uptake, only limited data on roots exists. Underground dry matter and N distribution patterns in corn (Zea mays L.) were determined by isolating root segments from soil cores collected around plants at anthesis from a Typic Kanhapludult. Samples were collected from two treatments: no‐till with 70 kg N/ha and conventional tillage and planting with crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum L.) as a N source. Seven soil cores (4.2 cm diameter) per plant were taken to recover roots in the 0‐ to 15‐cm and 15‐ to 30‐cm depth intervals. Sampling positions were at the base of the plant and at distances (perpendicular to the row) of 6, 16, and 27 cm into the trafficked interrow, and 11, 22, and 32 cm into the untrafficked interrow. Underground shoot and root segments were isolated from soil cores by hydropneumatic elutriation. Root distribution patterns in the no‐till treatment were similar in trafficked and untrafficked interrows, b...