cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Differing air traffic controller responses to similar trajectory prediction errors: An interrupted time-series analysis of controller behavior

A Human-In-The-Loop simulation was conducted in January of 2013 in the Airspace Operations Laboratory at NASA's Ames Research Center. The simulation airspace included two en route sectors feeding the northwest corner of Atlanta's Terminal Radar Approach Control. The focus of this paper is on how uncertainties in the study's trajectory predictions impacted the controllers' ability to perform their duties. Of particular interest is how the controllers interacted with the delay information displayed in the meter list and data block while managing the arrival flows. Due to wind forecasts with 30-knot over-predictions and 30-knot under-predictions, delay value computations included errors of similar magnitude, albeit in opposite directions. However, when performing their duties in the presence of these errors, did the controllers issue clearances of similar magnitude, albeit in opposite directions? This paper describes the use of a novel technique (Interrupted Time Series) to examine the controller response data.
Patellofemoral Arthritis After Lateral Patellar Dislocation: A Matched Population-Based Analysis.

Background:The rate of patellofemoral arthritis after lateral patellar dislocation is unknown.Purpose/Hypothesis:The purpose of this study was to compare the risk of patellofemoral arthritis and knee arthroplasty between patients who experienced a lateral patellar dislocation and matched individuals without a patellar dislocation. Additionally, factors predictive of arthritis after patellar dislocation were examined. The hypothesis was that the rate of arthritis is likely higher among patients who experience a patellar dislocation compared with those who do not.Study Design:Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:In this study, 609 patients who had a first-time lateral patellar dislocation between 1990 and 2010 were compared with an age- and sex-matched cohort of patients who did not have a patellar dislocation. Medical records were reviewed to collect information related to the initial injury, recurrent dislocation, treatment, and progression to clinically significant patellofemoral arthritis (defined...
Review: Low-molecular-weight heparin reduces death but not recurrent VTE events, bleeding, or thrombocytopenia in VTE

Source Citation Dolovich LR, Ginsberg JS, Douketis JD, Holbrook AM, Cheah G. A meta-analysis comparing low-molecular-weight heparins with unfractionated heparin in the treatment of venous thromboem...
Connective Tissue Growth Factor (CTGF) Is Essential for Self Renewal and Proliferation of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells (MSCs) and Affects Leukemia-Stromal Interactions.

Abstract Abstract 3845 Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a member of the CCN family of growth factors that are critical regulators of vertebrate development. CTGF is a secreted protein that promotes extracellular matrix production, chemotaxis, cell proliferation and integrin expression. Since CTGF is highly expressed in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and CTGF expression levels are related to ALL patient survival (Olga ST et al., Blood, 2007), we hypothesized that CTGF plays a role in regulating stromal cell proliferation and leukemia-stroma interaction. Our first goal was to characterize multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) from CTGF-/- mice, which die soon after birth from respiratory failure due to abnormal skeletal growth. We first attempted to isolate MSCs from BALB/C wild type and CTGF-/- newborn mice (Lvkovic S et al., Development, 2003). While we had no difficulty isolating MSCs from wild type mice, we failed to generate MSCs from CTGF-/- newborns (bone marrow, liver, spleen and thymus). As an alternative approach, we suppressed CTGF in bone marrow derived human MSCs with lenti-virus delivered CTGF shRNA (CTGF-KD-MSCs) and achieved knockdown of ≂f65% compared to vector control cells as determined by RT-PCR. Shortly after transduction (4 days) we started to observe major changes in the phenotype of CTGF-KD-MSCs, which grew 6–7 fold slower compared to vector control MSCs. CTGF-KD-MSCs displayed a significant decrease in the number of cells in S phase (from 14.7% ± 0.8% to 3.5%± 0.4%) and a concomitant increase in the number of G0/1 cells (from 68.8%±1.8% to 82.4%± 1.3%) suggesting a G0 or G1 block. To investigate if CTGF affects expression of MSC surface proteins, we analyzed standard MSC markers including CD105, CD90, CD73, CD44, CD140b, CD166 and CD45 (as a negative marker). Surprisingly, no differences in the expression of these markers in CTGF-KD-MSCs compared to vector control MSCs were observed. To determine if CTGF might regulate gene expression in MSCs, we performed a microarray analysis using Illumina arrays. By gene set analysis methods, we observed significant down regulation (p Disclosures: Andreeff: MyeloRx LLC: Consultancy, participant in research under an NCI SBIR Contract to MyeloRx LLC.
Understanding Central America by John A. Booth, Christine J. Wade, Thomas W. Walker (review)

Booth, John A., Christine J. Wade, and Thomas W. Walker. Understanding Central America (Sixth Edition). Boulder, CO: Westview Press, 2015. Review by Jeffery T. Morris.
Sensory Functioning in Older Adults: Relevance for Food Preference.

The world's population is aging and older adults represent the fastest growing segment of the consumer market. Changes in sensory, perceptual and cognitive function in this segment of the population have been described psychophysically, however, more is known about the young-old than the old-old or oldest-old. Only now are we exploring the potential for neuroimaging tools to probe the changes in central nervous system function related to taste and smell that are relevant to sensory perception, reward value, anticipation of and consumption of food stimuli. There is real potential for brain imaging to provide a greater understanding of older adults’ consumer behavior.
An isolated DC-DC converter with fully integrated magnetic core transformer

This work presents an isolated DC-DC converter with fully integrated magnetic core transformer. The converter achieves best-in-class efficiency and EMI performance which are most concerned for isolated DC-DC converter with on chip transformer. The proposed chip-level isolated DC-DC converter contains an integrated transformer with 4μm thick stacked layers CoZrTa magnetic core, a symmetric pre-driver, a full-bridge driver, modified LLC resonance network, a full-wave bridge rectifier with on-chip Schottky diode and type II compensation network. Fully symmetric architecture and accurate timing control are utilized to minimize the radiated emissions and maximize the efficiency. In comparison with state of the art the measurement results demonstrate proposed DC-DC converter achieves best-in-class efficiency (46%) and EMI performance (pass CISPR22 Class B limit with 10dB margin) by maintaining a high quality factor of 11 for transformer at much lower frequency (25MegHz).
Biofilms, Quorum Sensing and Crosstalk in Medically Important Microbes

Biofilms are heterogeneous communities of microorganisms firmly attached to a biological or abiotic surface. They are the causative agents of chronic infection in over 25 different diseases and the microbes that comprise biofilms are typically highly tolerant to antimicrobials. Biofilm formation is a highly coordinated process that relies heavily on a cell-density-dependent form of microbial communication called ‘quorum sensing’ (QS). QS is facilitated by the production of small-molecule signals that induce shifts in gene expression and metabolic activity in the organisms residing in and around biofilms. Quorum signals can elicit specific responses in a wide range of both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, and this ‘crosstalk’ or ‘interkingdom signalling, (IKS) travels both directions, as some mammalian hormones can directly enhance bacterial virulence. Since QS controls the pathogenic processes of so many medically important microbes, it holds significant promise as a future target for therapeutics.
Influence of Dietary Restriction and Aging on Gene Expression in the Immune System of Rats

Gene expression is a fundamental process for all cells, and alterations in the expression of a gene(s) can have a dramatic effect on cell structure and function. During the past two decades, there has been a large number of studies on the effect of aging on various aspects of gene expression. The area that has been most extensively studied has been protein synthesis. Most studies in this area have shown that the protein synthetic activity of tissues from a variety of organisms declines with increasing age (Richardson, 1981; Richardson and Birchenall-Sparks, 1983; Richardson and Semsei, 1987). Because this decrease has been observed in organisms ranging from fungi to humans, it has been proposed that the age- related decline in protein synthesis is a universal phenomenon (Richardson, 1981). The effect of aging on transcription has been studied to a lesser extent than protein synthesis, and, in general, a related decline in transcription is usually observed in tissues (Richardson et al., 1983; Richardson and Semsei, 1987). Currently, investigators are beginning to use complementary DNA (cDNA) probes to measure the effect of aging on the expression of specific genes at the level of transcription (Richardson et al., 1985; Richardson and Semsei, 1987).
Leadership Plan Addendum – Relationship Marketing

The quasi-monopolistic structure which Amtrak was established has been detrimental for the longevity of the firm. Any long-term plan, such as a comprehensive marketing plan, has been stifled under the political arm of the United States congress. Marketing managers who would normally look at the best market for the company must ignore common business signs in favor of pork-barrel politics that require running empty trains to areas of the country as a favor to Senator X or Congressperson Y.
SRC-3 inhibition blocks tumor growth of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly malignant and lethal disease with few treatment options. Steroid receptor coactivator-3 (SRC-3, also known as NCOA3, AIB1, pCIP, ACTR, RAC3, TRAM1) sits at the nexus of many growth signaling pathways and has been pursued as a therapeutic target for breast, prostate and lung cancers. In this study, we find that SRC-3 is overexpressed in PDAC and inversely correlates with patient overall survival. Knockdown of SRC-3 reduces pancreatic cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro. Additionally, inhibition of SRC-3 using either shRNA or a small molecule inhibitor can significantly inhibit tumor growth in orthotopic pancreatic cancer mouse models. Collectively, this study establishes SRC-3 as a promising therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer treatment.
Combination of KS119W with other antitumor agents for the treatment of murine and human tumor xenografts in mice

1390 We have previously demonstrated that KS119W, a novel hypoxia-selective anticancer agent, possesses antitumor activities against murine EMT-6 and human H460 tumors in mice. Based on these results, we predicted that combination therapy of KS119W and a chemotherapeutic agent that targets the normoxic tumor cells would produce an additive or synergistic effect. The present study was undertaken to evaluate this strategy by using KS119W at doses below the maximum tolerated dose in combination with non-toxic doses of cyclophosphamide (CTX) or gemcitabine (GEM) against murine EMT-6 and human H460 tumors in nude mice. Treatments began when the size of the tumors reached approximately 150 mm3. In the H460 tumor model, animals were treated intraperitoneally (ip) with 180-240mg/kg per dose of KS119W, on days 1, 7, 14, and 22. CTX was given at 100mg/kg, ip, on the same days. In a different experiment, GEM was given at 75-120mg/kg, on days 1, 7, 14 and 21. CTX or GEM was given two hours after KS119W dosing. KS119W alone inhibited H460 tumor growth by 78.2% (p=0.006) whereas CTX produced 54.5% inhibition (p=0.039). The combination treatment of KS119W and CTX resulted in 89.8% inhibitory effects (p=0.003), comparing to untreated controls. In the EMT-6 model, treatment of KS119W at 97mg/kg (7 daily doses) inhibited tumor growth by 58.5%. CTX at 100mg/kg, ip, once per week for 4 weeks, generated a negligible tumor growth inhibition. Combination treatment of KS119W and CTX inhibited tumor growth by 91.8% (p=0.0001, comparing to untreated controls). Similar antitumor effects were also observed in animals treated with a combination of KS119W and GEM. Immunohistochemical studies were also used to evaluate the effects of KS119W in tumors. KS119W profoundly reduced tumor cell proliferation around hypoxic areas. KS119W enhanced the cytotoxic effect of GEM and significantly increased the necrotic area. These results show that KS119W, in combination with conventional antitumor agents, could present a therapeutic advantage for future cancer therapy.
Templating Structural Progessions in Intermetallics: How Chemical Pressure Directs Helix Formation in the Nowotny Chimney Ladders.

In the structural diversity of intermetallic phases, hierarchies can be perceived relating complex structures to relatively simple parent structures. One example is the Nowotny Chimney Ladder (NCL)...
Modeling columnar to equiaxed transition in directional solidification of Inconel 718 alloy

Abstract During processing of metallic alloys, control over the resulting microstructure is highly desired. Understanding the solidification process and insight into the kinetics of dendritic growth is extremely valuable, as the microstructural characteristics strongly influence the properties of the solidified alloy materials. In order to control the resulting microstructure, the columnar-to-equiaxed transition (CET) must be understood. In this work, the columnar-to-equiaxed transition in directional solidification of Inconel 718 was simulated using a phase field – lattice Boltzmann model (PF-LBM). The phase field (PF) method was used to solve for the propagation of the solid/liquid interface. The lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) was used here for modeling solute transport subject to complex boundary conditions. The effects of applied temperature gradient and solidification rate on the resulting microstructure were studied. A CET solidification map was developed using the present model and the primary dendrite arm spacing was discussed.
Ring-opening metathesis polymerization of a strained stilbene-based macrocyclic monomer

We report the synthesis of a new class of strained macrocycle that performs well in ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP). The polymerization displays chain growth characteristics with evidence of secondary metathesis in the form of chain transfer. The unique structure enables access to stilbene-based polymers that are traditionally prepared via uncontrolled polymerizations.
Correction to: Nomogram-based estimate of axillary nodal involvement in ACOSOG Z0011 (Alliance): validation and association with radiation protocol variations.

A substantial proportion of patients enrolled on ACOSOG Z0011 received protocol-deviant radiation treatment. It is currently unknown whether these deviations involved the use of more extensive fields in patients at higher nomogram-predicted risk. We used the M.D. Anderson (MDA) and Memorial Sloan-Kettering (MSK) nomograms to estimate risk of additional positive axillary nodes using surgical pathology information. In the control arm, we compared axillary dissection (AD) findings to nomogram-predicted estimates for validation. We used logistic regression to evaluate whether nomogram-estimated higher risk of nodal involvement was associated with high tangent (HT) or supraclavicular (SCV) radiation fields for patients with known radiation field design. 552/856 (64.5%) had complete details for the MDA nomogram. Mean MDA risk estimate in both treatment arms was 23.8%. Estimated risk for patients on the AD arm with positive nodes was 25.9%. Higher risk estimate was associated with additional positive nodes in the AD arm (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.02–1.06, p < 0.0001). We observed significant association with higher MDA nomogram-estimated risk and SCV radiation (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.04–1.10, p < 0.0001) but not HT (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.96–1.02, p = 0.52) The MSK nomogram had similar associations. MDA and MSK nomogram risk estimates were associated with lymph node risk in ACOSOG Z0011. Radiation oncologists’ use of differing radiation fields were associated with treating higher risk patients. ClinicalTrials.gov id: NCT00003855.
A Survey of Fair and Responsible Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence: Implications of Consumer Financial Services

Machine learning (ML) algorithms and the artificial intelligence (AI) systems that they enable are powerful technologies that have inspired a lot of excitement, especially within large business and governmental organizations. In an era when increasingly concentrated computing power enables the creation, collection, and storage of “big data,” ML algorithms have the capacity to identify non-intuitive correlations in massive datasets, and as such can theoretically be more efficient and effective than humans at using those correlations to make accurate predictions. However, biases can be encoded in the datasets on which ML algorithms are trained, arising from poor sampling strategies, incomplete or erroneous information, and the social inequalities that exist in the actual world. Additionally, the inherent complexities of ML algorithms that defy explanation even for the most expert practitioners can make it difficult, if not impossible, to identify the root causes of unfair decisions. That same opacity also presents an obstacle for individuals who believe that they have been evaluated unfairly, want to challenge a decision, or try to determine who should—or even ​could​—be held accountable for mistakes. This paper surveys current research in and around ML and AI, drawing primarily from work in computer science, social sciences, and the law. Although it examines material across several contexts, the underlying intention is to consider how insights and lessons from a number of different domains can be applied within consumer financial services. And while there are certainly implications for organizational planning and strategy, the analytical focus rests primarily on the individuals and groups who are impacted directly by AI systems’ decision-making processes. This paper is organized as follows: Section I explores the social contexts with which ML and AI technologies are integrated, and the structural inequalities that influence—and are in turn influenced by—those integrations. Section II surveys ongoing research into data quality, fairness, transparency, and accountability; specific examples of problems that have emerged around these issues; and some of the methods and tools that have been proposed for managing those problems. Finally, the conclusion examines several actual-world cases of ML and AI’s human impacts and the challenges and opportunities posed by algorithmic governance.
Stereotactic radiosurgery for the treatment of bulky spine metastases.

Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) has shown durable local control for the treatment of metastatic diseasespinal metastases. Multilevel disease or epidural or paraspinal involvement present challenges to achieving local control, and this study aims to analyze treatment outcomes for such lesions. Patients treated at a single institution with SRS to the spine from 2010–2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Inclusion criteria required clinical follow-up with either a pain assessment or imaging study. Bulky spine metastasis was defined as consisting of multilevel disease or epidural or paraspinal tumor involvement. 54 patients treated for 62 lesions met inclusion criteria. 42 treatments included at least two vertebrae, and 21 and 31 had paraspinal and epidural involvement, respectively. Treatment regimens had a median 24 Gy in 3 fractions to a volume of 37.75 cm3. Median follow-up was 14.36 months, with 5 instances (8%) of local failure. Median overall survival was 13.32 months. Pain improvement was achieved in 47 treatments (76%), and pain improved with treatment (p < 0.0001). Severe pain (HR = 3.08, p = 0.05), additional bone metastases (HR = 4.82, p = 0.05), and paraspinal involvement (HR = 3.93, p < 0.005) were predictive for worse overall survival. Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated that prior chemotherapy (p = 0.03) and additional bone metastases (p = 0.02) were predictive of worse overall survival. Grade < 3 toxicity was observed in 19 cases; no grade ≥ 3 side effects were observed. SRS can effectively treat bulky metastases to the spine, resulting in improvement of pain with minimal toxicity. Severe pain independently predicts for worse overall survival, indicating that treatment prior to worsening of pain is strongly recommended
The Role of Parent Self-Regulation in Youth Type 1 Diabetes Management

Youth with strong self-regulation (SR), or the ability to manage thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, engage in more effective type 1 diabetes (T1D) management. However, while parent support and engagement are critical to ensuring positive youth T1D outcomes, it is rarely considered that parents’ SR may also influence youth T1D management. If this is the case, novel interventions to improve parents’ SR or ensure adequate support for parents with SR challenges offer great potential to improve family functioning and youth T1D management. Theoretical and preliminary empirical evidence suggests that parental SR impacts family processes that support youth T1D treatment regimen adherence. Furthermore, parent and youth SR likely interact, with high parent SR enhancing the positive effects of high youth SR or compensating for low youth SR. Continued research is needed to better understand the ways in which parent SR matters to youth T1D management and identify how to support improvements in T1D management among families of parents with low SR.
ANTS on a Plane

In the ANTS (Ants Nearby Treasure Search) problem, multiple searchers, starting from a central location, search for a treasure. The searchers cannot communicate and have few bits of initial knowledge, called advice, when they begin the search. In this paper, we initiate the study of ANTS in the geometric plane.
DNA Methylation and Gene Expression with Clinical Covariates Explain Variation in Aggressiveness and Survival of Pancreatic Cancer Patients

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is associated with a high mortality rate. We explored the interindividual variation of cancer outcomes, attributable to DNA methylation, gene expression, and clinical factors among PC patients. We aim to determine whether we could differentiate subjects with greater nodal involvement, higher cancer staging, and subsequent survival. We modeled every response variable as a function of a linear predictor involving the effects of clinical variables, methylation, and gene expression in a Bayesian framework. Our results highlight the overall importance of wide-spread alterations in methylation and gene expression patterns associated with survival, nodal metastasis, and staging.
The environmental opportunity cost of using renewable energy for carbon capture and utilization for methanol production

Abstract Carbon capture and utilization (CCU) to produce methanol is a beneficial pathway to use carbon dioxide (CO2) and mitigate climate change. Existing life cycle assessments demonstrate that CCU methanol generates a net CO2 benefit when the hydrogen (H2), required for hydrogenating the captured CO2, is generated by electrolyzing water using renewable electricity (RE). However, the findings do not account for the environmental opportunity cost when RE can be supplied to the grid to offset CO2 intensive electricity instead of electrolyzing water, the energy penalty of capturing CO2 and the scope for technological improvement. This study quantifies the environmental opportunity cost and determines the net CO2 emissions when CCU methanol offsets the production of conventional methanol across 14 scenarios. The 14 scenarios account for capturing CO2 from 3 sources (combined and conventional natural gas, and coal power plants) and generating H2 with electricity from 3 sources (photovoltaics, wind and the grid). The CO2 avoided by using RE on the grid is greater than that from producing CCU methanol by 660 to 11960 kg CO2/ton methanol across the 14 scenarios. Unless the grid CO2 intensity drops below 67 g CO2/kWh, it is environmentally preferable to supply RE to the grid than for use in CCU methanol production. At the thermodynamic limit of CCU methanol production, the grid CO2 intensity should be lower than 82 g CO2/kWh, which is unlikely in the US before 2050.
Bacterial Community Members Increase Bacillus subtilis Maintenance on the Roots of Arabidopsis thaliana.

Plant-growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) are used to improve plant health and promote crop production. However, because some PGPB (including Bacillus subtilis) do not maintain substantial colonizatio...
Radiolabeling of Gold Nanocages for Potential Applications in Tracking, Diagnosis, and Image‐Guided Therapy

Gold nanocages (AuNCs) have emerged as a novel class of multifunctional nanomaterials with an array of applications in nanomedicine, including drug delivery, controlled release, as well as disease diagnosis and treatment. Labeling AuNCs with radionuclides not only offers additional therapeutic capabilities but also makes it easy to analyze their biodistribution, monitor their uptake by the tissue or organ of interest, and optimize their performance in both diagnosis and treatment. Here, an introduction to the chemical synthesis and optical properties of AuNCs is provided in the beginning. The methods developed for their radiolabeling are then showcased, followed by the use of radiolabeled AuNCs in tracking and quantifying their pharmacokinetics, including biodistribution, tumor uptake, and intratumoral distribution. Finally, their potential applications in targeted imaging and image-guided therapy are discussed.
Comments on ‘‘Tangent linear and adjoint of ‘on–off’ processes and their feasibility for use in 4-dimensional variational data assimilation’’

(1998). Comments on ‘‘Tangent linear and adjoint of ‘on–off’ processes and their feasibility for use in 4-dimensional variational data assimilation’’. Tellus A: Dynamic Meteorology and Oceanography: Vol. 50, No. 5, pp. 653-656.
Humoral and Other Sleep-Promoting Factors

The concept that sleep is regulated by humoral factors dates back to the very beginning of experimental sleep research. Attempts to find a single key “hypnotoxin” which by itself would be responsible for eliciting sleep were unsuccessful, but the search led to the identification of several hormones and immune modulators with sleep-promoting properties. Modern theories about humoral sleep-promoting factors posit that these molecules constitute a complex signaling network, with significant overlaps and redundancies. Major sources of these signals are metabolic and immune organs, and the main function of this complex regulatory system is to help align sleep-wake activity with the metabolic and immune status of the organism. In the present chapter, we review the best characterized humoral sleep signals and the emerging role of metabolic tissues and the intestinal microbiota in sleep regulation.
APOBEC3-induced mutation of the hepatitis virus B DNA genome occurs during its viral RNA reverse transcription into (-)-DNA.

APOBEC3s are innate single-stranded DNA cytidine-to-uridine deaminases that catalyze mutations in both pathogen and human genomes with significant roles in human disease. However, how APOBEC3s mutate a single-stranded DNA that is available momentarily during DNA transcription or replication in vivo remains relatively unknown. In this study, utilizing hepatitis B virus (HBV) viral mutations, we evaluated the mutational characteristics of individual APOBEC3s with reference to the HBV replication process through HBV whole single-strand (−)-DNA genome mutation analyses. We found that APOBEC3s induced C-to-T mutations from the HBV reverse transcription start site continuing through the whole (−)-DNA transcript to the termination site with variable efficiency, in an order of A3B >> A3G > A3H-II or A3C. A3B had a 3-fold higher mutation efficiency than A3H-II or A3C with up to 65% of all HBV genomic cytidines being converted into uridines in a single mutation event, consistent with the A3B localized hypermutation signature in cancer, namely, kataegis. On the other hand, A3C expression led to a 3-fold higher number of mutation-positive HBV genome clones, although each individual clone had a lower number of C-to-T mutations. Like A3B, A3C preferred both 5′-TC and 5′-CC sequences, but to a lesser degree. The APOBEC3-induced HBV mutations were predominantly detected in the HBV rcDNA but were not detectable in other intermediates including HBV cccDNA and pgRNA by primer extension of their PCR amplification products. These data demonstrate that APOBEC3-induced HBV genome mutations occur predominantly when the HBV RNA genome was reversely transcribed into (−)-DNA in the viral capsid.
Analogous Reactions for the Biosynthesis of Monosialo- and Disialo-gangliosides in Brain

Rat brain enzyme preparations catalyze the transfer of N-acetylgalactosamine from UDP-N-acetylgalactosamine to monosialyl- and disialyl-lactosylceramide. The respective in vitro synthetized reaction products are acceptors of galactose when UDP-galactose is present in the system. The similarities of kinetic parameters for the corresponding steps suggest that an analogous sequence of reactions is involved in the synthesis of the gangliosides galactosyl-N-acetylgalactosaminyl-[N-acetylneuraminyl]-galactosylglucosylceramide and galactosyl-N-acetylgalactosaminyl-[N-acetylneuraminyl-N-acetylneuraminyl]-galactosylglucosylceramide.
The Decoupling of Value Creation from Revenue: A Strategic Analysis of the Markets for Pure Information Goods

Information and telecommunications technologies have profoundly altered the distribution channels available for a wide range of goods and services. In this paper we analyze a particular class of products, information goods and develop a first framework for predicting which information goods are most likely to see their production, distribution, and consumption patterns altered by the net, which are likely to see shifts in power and profitability, and which are likely to remain unchanged for the foreseeable future. We focus on music and news as a selected couple of very different information goods industries that follow two very different trajectories. Our results suggest that the power structure in news distribution is unlikely to be transformed rapidly. In contrast, the power structure in music is transforming rapidly. Star acts no longer need their record labels to certify their music to their fans, and digital production and distribution have reduced or eliminated the value of other assets owned by the record companies. The framework we use to analyze these two industries can readily be applied to a range of others . . . from the production of television soap opera series to the publication of academic journals in polymer chemistry.
Onyx embolization of carotid-cavernous fistulas.

Object The authors conducted a study to determine the safety and efficacy of embolization of carotid-cavernous fistulas (CCFs) with the ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer, Onyx. Methods They prospectively collected data in all patients with CCFs who underwent Onyx-based embolization at their institution over a 3-year period. The type of fistula, route of embolization, viscosity of Onyx, additional use of coils, extent of embolization, procedural complications, and clinical follow-up were recorded. Results A total of 12 patients (5 men and 7 women who were age 24–88 years) underwent embolization in which Onyx was used. There were 1 Barrow Type A, 1 Type B, 3 Type C, and 7 Type D fistulas. Embolization was performed via a transvenous route in 8 cases and a transarterial route in 4 cases. Onyx 34 was used in all but 2 cases: a direct Type A fistula embolized with Onyx 500 and an indirect Type C fistula embolized with Onyx 18. Adjuvant embolization with framing coils was performed in 7 cases. All procedures wer...
High Dietary Phosphate Intake Induces Development of Ectopic Calcifications in a Murine Model of Familial Tumoral Calcinosis

Familial tumoral calcinosis is characterized by ectopic calcifications due to persistent hyperphosphatemia. The most common genetic cause of the disease is mutations in GALNT3, encoding a glycosyltransferase involved in a posttranslational modification of fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23). The Galnt3 knockout mouse we developed was hyperphosphatemic due to low intact Fgf23 levels, but did not develop any apparent calcifications on a standard rodent diet. We therefore tested the hypothesis that a further challenge with a high phosphate diet could induce ectopic calcifications in Galnt3 knockout mice. Mice were fed either normal (0.6%) or high (1.65%) phosphate diet for 20 weeks beginning from weaning at 3 weeks. The high phosphate diet did not affect serum phosphorus concentration. However, regardless of the dietary phosphate contents, serum phosphorus levels were consistently elevated in Galnt3 knockout mice. The mice on the high phosphate diet had slightly low serum calcium, but significantly high alkaline phosphatase, parathyroid hormone (PTH), and calcium in the kidney. Although none of Galnt3 knockout mice on the normal phosphate diet developed calcifications, calcifications appeared in approximately one-half of the mice on the high phosphate diet by 12 weeks. Calcified masses were most often found around the neck and on the back and as large as 9.9 mm in length. These data indicate that dietary phosphate load has major impact on the development of ectopic calcifications in tumoral calcinosis. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Advancing Uncertainty: Untangling and Discerning Related Concepts

Methods of advancing concepts within the qualitative paradigm have been developed and articulated. In this section, I describe methodological perspectives of a project designed to advance the concept of uncertainty using multiple qualitative methods. Through a series of earlier studies, the concept of uncertainty arose repeatedly in varied contexts, working its way into prominence, and warranting further investigation. Processes of advanced concept analysis were used to initiate the formal investigation into the meaning of the concept. Through concept analysis, the concept was deconstructed to identify conceptual components and gaps in understanding. Using this skeletal framework of the concept identified through concept analysis, subsequent studies were carried out to add ‘flesh’ to the concept. First, a concept refinement using the literature as data was completed. Findings revealed that the current state of the concept of uncertainty failed to incorporate what was known of the lived experience. Therefore, using interview techniques as the primary data source, a phenomenological study of uncertainty among caregivers was conducted. Incorporating the findings of the phenomenology, the skeletal framework of the concept was further fleshed out using techniques of concept correction to produce a more mature conceptualization of uncertainty. In this section, I describe the flow of this qualitative project investigating the concept of uncertainty, with special emphasis on a particular threat to validity (called conceptual tunnel vision) that was identified and addressed during the phases of concept correction. Though in this article I employ a study of uncertainty for illustration, limited substantive findings regarding uncertainty are presented to retain a clear focus on the methodological issues.
Lung clearance index predicts pulmonary exacerbations in cystic fibrosis

Background: The lung clearance index (LCI) is increasingly used as an endpoint in clinical trials, but data showing its associations with clinical endpoints and its prognostic value are spares. Objectives: We aimed to show whether the LCI is associated with clinical parameters supposed to reflect lung disease in cystic fibrosis and whether the LCI predicts subsequent pulmonary exacerbations (PE). Methods: Baseline LCI, spirometry parameters and clinical data were obtained and PE per year were prospectively recorded in 59 patients with proven cystic fibrosis. Linear regression models were used to explore associations between baseline data and LCI and between LCI and PE. Results: 59 Patients with a mean age of 17.8 years (range 6.3; 44.6) with a mean baseline FEV1 of -3.1 z-score (-13.2; 2.7) and a mean LCI of 9.9 (6.2; 18.6) were evaluated for a mean of 3.1 years (1.5; 3.5) years. 165 PE were recorded, the mean annual PE rate was 2.8 (0; 14). PO2 (β =-0.124; 95%CI -0.188; -0.060), FEV1 z-score (β= -0.288 95%CI -0.534; -0.041) and status of infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa (β= -1,759 95%CI -3.029; -0.489) were independent predictors of LCI (r=0.779; r 2 =0.606). LCI was the only predictor of subsequent PE (β=0.306 95%CI 0.196; 0.415, r=0.629; r 2 =0.40). Conclusion: We show that the LCI is associated with surrogate parameters of lung disease. By predicting PE the LCI is also associated with markers of clinical deterioration in cystic fibrosis patients. Our data support the use of LCI as a valuable endpoint in clinical trials.
Dismissing Academic Surplus: How Discursive Support for the Neoliberal Self Silences New Faculty

As the essays in this collection reveal, academics entering the field today are firmly ensconced in the neoliberal economy. Positions are scarce and precarious, remuneration is barely sufficient (or insufficient), resources are inadequate and shrinking, and workloads are increasing. This essay, however, focuses on the academic community and the discursive messages, both formal and informal, that constrain conversations aimed at positive change. The public project – the contribution of scholars to fields of knowledge to benefit humanity – is what matters most of all. Graduate school, ideally, begins as an act of love: passion for a particular content connects with a desire to contribute to new ways of knowing. It should end with discovery, excitement, and hope.
A multi-rate filter bank pre-processor for image compression

A multirate-filter-bank is introduced which is used as a preprocessor/postprocessor pair to improve the quality of general image coding methods such as linear predictive coding, vector-quantization, transform coding, and subband coding. Computer simulations demonstrating the versatility of this technique, are presented. In most cases tested, using the multirate filter banks provided better subjective and objective performance in coding. >
Formation of intestinal atresias in the Fgfr2IIIb-/- mice is not associated with defects in notochord development or alterations in Shh expression.

Abstract Purpose The etiology of intestinal atresia remains elusive but has been ascribed to a number of possible events including in utero vascular accidents, failure of recanalization of the intestinal lumen, and mechanical compression. Another such event that has been postulated to be a cause in atresia formation is disruption in notochord development. This hypothesis arose from clinical observations of notochord abnormalities in patients with intestinal atresias as well as abnormal notochord development observed in a pharmacologic animal model of intestinal atresia. Atresias in this model result from in utero exposure to Adriamycin, wherein notochord defects were noted in up to 80% of embryos that manifested intestinal atresias. Embryos with notochord abnormalities were observed to have ectopic expression of Sonic Hedgehog (Shh), which in turn was postulated to be causative in atresia formation. We were interested in determining whether disruptions in notochord development or Shh expression occurred in an established genetic model of intestinal atresia and used the fibroblast growth factor receptor 2IIIb homozygous mutant (Fgfr2IIIb−/−) mouse model. These embryos develop colonic atresias (100% penetrance) and duodenal atresias (42% penetrance). Methods Wild-type and Fgfr2IIIb−/− mouse embryos were harvested at embryonic day (E) 10.5, E11.5, E12.5, and E13.5. Whole-mount in situ hybridization was performed on E10.5 embryos for Shh. Embryos at each time point were harvested and sectioned for hematoxylin-eosin staining. Sections were photographed specifically for the notochord and resulting images reconstructed in 3-D using Amira software. Colons were isolated from wild-type and Fgfr2IIIb−/− embryos at E10.5, then cultured for 48 hours in Matrigel with FGF10 in the presence or absence of exogenous Shh protein. Explants were harvested, fixed in formalin, and photographed. Results Fgfr2IIIb−/− mouse embryos exhibit no disruptions in Shh expression at E10.5, when the first events in atresia formation are known to occur. Three-dimensional reconstructions failed to demonstrate any anatomical disruptions in the notochord by discontinuity or excessive branching. Culture of wild-type intestines in the presence of Shh failed to induce atresia formation in either the duodenum or colon. Cultured Fgfr2IIIb−/− intestines developed atresias of the colon in either the presence or absence of Shh protein. Conclusions Although disruptions in notochord development can be associated with intestinal atresia formation, in the Fgfr2IIIb−/− genetic animal model neither disruptions in notochord development nor the presence of exogenous Shh protein are causative in the formation of these defects.
Integral-equation approach to medium-range order in molten and glassy chalcogenides.

The first sharp diffraction peak (FSDP), a signature of medium-range order in molten and vitreous chalcogenides, is investigated using the integral-equation method. A variety of interatomic potentials, including uncharged and charged hard spheres, and realistic two-body interactions, are used in this study. The two-body potential consists of steric repulsions, Coulomb interactions due to charge-transfer effects, and the effects of electronic polarizability of ions. ${\mathrm{GeSe}}_{2}$ is treated as a specific example. The FSDP is observed in both the charged-hard-sphere and the realistic two-body interaction models. In both models steric and charge-transfer effects are found to give rise to Ge(${\mathrm{Se}}_{1/2}$${)}_{4}$ tetrahedra whose packing determines the medium-range order and the attendant FSDP. From the charge-charge structure factor it is found that the FSDP arises from spatial correlations where charge neutrality prevails. The nature of the medium-range correlation is elucidated through the temperature and density dependence of the FSDP and the thermal expansion determined from the shifts of the peaks in the static structure factor. We have also studied the effects of the potential parameters on the position of the FSDP. The results of the hypernetted-chain theory are compared with the molecular-dynamics results.
Attributions, World Assumptions, and Recovery from Sexual Assault

ABSTRACT The present study examined how sexual assault history and attributions of blame were related to measures of recovery from and cognitive adaptation to trauma in a convenience sample of sexual assault victims (N = 155) who completed a mail survey. Attributions of blame were related to assumptions about self and world, but were unrelated to self-rated recovery. Women sexually victimized in both childhood and adulthood had lower self-worth and were more likely to make external attributions of blame. Increased self-blame was related to poorer recovery for women assaulted in both life phases. Implications for clinical treatment and future research are discussed.
The Consequences of Electoral Institutions for Careerism

Although electoral institutions have been shown to have a variety of effects, scholars have not investigated if certain voting rules enable politicians to enjoy longer legislative careers. I took advantage of a natural experiment—a sudden transition from a semiproportional voting rule to single-member districts with plurality voting (SMDP)—to measure the effect of electoral institutions on careerism. My analysis revealed that voting rules have a profound influence on the dynamics of legislative careers: politicians elected under SMDP are far less likely to suffer electoral defeat or to retire than those elected via cumulative voting. The findings of this study not only provide additional insight into the seat safety of politicians elected in first-past-the-post systems, but moreover offer new criteria by which to evaluate the choice of electoral institutions.
Design for a specified natural frequency of elastically constrained axially graded bars

This study derives some closed-form analytic as well as numeric solutions for the axially graded elastically-constrained bar with polynomial varying modulus of elasticity, along the axial coordinate. The solutions allow for vibration tailoring in such a manner that the bar possesses the pre-selected natural frequency.
From Dissonance To Disidentification: Selectivity in the Self-Affirmation Process

Two studies examined the relationship between the content of a self-threat and the attractiveness of available self-affirmations (C. M. Steele, 1988). After self-threast was induced by means of a cognitive dissonance procedure, participants' choices for affirmations were examined in order to explore whether the attractiveness of a given affirmation depends on its relevance to the threatened domain of the self-concept. The authors hypothesized that when faced with a threat to a specific self-conception or standard, individuals may forego affirmations within the threatened self-concept domain in favor of affirmations of unrelated, compensatory domains. Both studies supported this hypothesis and further suggested that such selective self-affirmation can lead individuals to modify their self-concepts by identifying with self-aspects that justify dissonant behavior and by disidentifying with the standards that such behavior violates
Simulation and modeling of a single bus tightly coupled multiprocessor system

Abstract This paper presents a new queuing approach for the modeling of single bus tightly coupled multiprocessors, and a new simulation method which allows for its analysis. The model considers the macroscopic behavior of the multiprocessor, as well as the local program behavior. A new simulation method for each processing element, in the multiprocessor, is also presented. An expansion of the simulator for a multiprocessor system is also described. This expansion takes into account the fact that the workload distribution may be either static or dynamic. The simulator is shown to be capable of addressing the steady state behavior of the multiprocessor model, as well as the transient behavior. Experimental results for a single processor are presented, along with a brief discussion of problems that arose during the simulation experiments.
Experimental Measurements of Optically-pumped NMR (OPNMR) and Spin Polarization in Bulk GaAs and GaAs/AlGaAs Quantum Wells

Optically-pumped nuclear magnetic resonance (OPNMR) is a measurement scheme that utilizes optical pumping of conduction electrons within a semiconductor to polarize systems of nuclear spins to which they are coupled. The spectroscopic power of NMR techniques is brought to bear on these rare spin systems through enhancement of the nuclear spin polarization, here in direct-gap semiconductors such as bulk semi-insulating GaAs and GaAs/AlGaAs quantum wells. The nuclear spins act as reporters of the electron spins that are oriented during optical pumping with circularly polarized laser light, at specific photon energies. The effects of penetration depth of the laser in the sample can be understood when irradiating at energies less than the bandgap energy, as well as details of coupling to interband transitions originating from Landau levels at photon energies greater than the bandgap energy. We show that OPNMR is particularly sensitive to the sign of magnetization that results from light hole-to-conduction band transitions because the sign of magnetization is reversed when the light hole states in the valence band are accessed.