cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Role of epidermal growth factor-stimulated protein kinase in control of proliferation of A431 cells.

One hundred and twenty-four localized prostate cancer patients operated on at Johns Hopkins Hospital (JHH) since 1975 were identified. The sample was optimized for evaluation of prostate cancer progression. Based upon accurate clinical histories, these radical prostatectomy patients included 50 progressors and 74 non-progressors using appearance of serum PSA as an indication of recurrence (mean follow-up = 8.6 +/- 1.8 years, range 7-15 years). All patients included in the study had no involvement of their seminal vesicles or lymph nodes at the time of prostatectomy. Average time to progression was 3.6 +/- 2 years, range of 1-8 years. Using paraffin-embedded specimens, several five micron sections were cut and placed on Probe-On slides; one slide was H&E-stained and the other was Feulgen-stained. The H&E and Feulgen-stained slides were screened and "dotted" by pathologists at JHH and CytoDynostics, Inc. A CAS-200 Image analysis system (Cell Image Systems, Elmhurst, IL) equipped with a Cell Measurement Program version 1.2 beta, was used to capture the Feulgen-stained images and to perform the calculations. From the "dotted" areas, 150 cancer cells were selected for measurement of DNA content and 27 nuclear morphometric shape and size factors, including 21 Markovian chromatin texture variables. Additional sections were used for immunochemistry staining with an alkaline phosphatase streptavidin-biotin complex stain to detect and quantitate cancer cells binding monoclonal antibodies directed against proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and HER-2/neu antigen. All data were entered into a statistical program (STATA) for further analysis and univariate and multivariate statistical analysis was performed using logistic regression and its stepwise variant. The biomarkers of greatest utility to detect progressors when analyzed univariately included post-operative Gleason score (p = < 0.0001), HER-2/neu antigenicity (p = 0.0147), CAS-200 DNA ploidy (p = 0.008), and twelve Markovian nuclear texture and shape features (p = < 0.0001), whereas PCNA (p = 0.160) failed. The optimal set of nuclear morphometry progression tumor features were selected using backward stepwise logistic regression estimate analysis which drops variables due to collinearity. Although post-operative Gleason score is a strong univariate predictor of progression, DNA ploidy and HER-2/neu contributed significantly to further stratification of higher risk groups within the low Gleason score subpopulation. The best Markovian features combined with post-operative Gleason score generated sensitivity = 90%, specificity = 96%, positive predictive value = 94%, negative predictive value = 93% and the area under the receiver operator curve was 0.975.
Timeframes of Speciation, Reticulation, and Hybridization in the Bulldog Bat Explained Through Phylogenetic Analyses of All Genetic Transmission Elements.

Phylogenetic comparisons of the different mammalian genetic transmission elements (mtDNA, X-, Y-, and autosomal DNA) is a powerful approach for understanding the process of speciation in nature. Through such comparisons the unique inheritance pathways of each genetic element and gender-biased processes can link genomic structure to the evolutionary process, especially among lineages which have recently diversified, in which genetic isolation may be incomplete. Bulldog bats of the genus Noctilio are an exemplar lineage, being a young clade, widely distributed, and exhibiting unique feeding ecologies. In addition, currently recognized species are paraphyletic with respect to the mtDNA gene tree and contain morphologically identifiable clades that exhibit mtDNA divergences as great as among many species. To test taxonomic hypotheses and understand the contribution of hybridization to the extant distribution of genetic diversity in Noctilio, we used phylogenetic, coalescent stochastic modeling, and divergence time estimates using sequence data from cytochrome-b, cytochrome c oxidase-I, zinc finger Y, and zinc finger X, as well as evolutionary reconstructions based on amplified fragment length polymorphisms (AFLPs) data. No evidence of ongoing hybridization between the two currently recognized species was identified. However, signatures of an ancient mtDNA capture were recovered in which an mtDNA lineage of one species was captured early in the noctilionid radiation. Among subspecific mtDNA clades, which were generally coincident with morphology and statistically definable as species, signatures of ongoing hybridization were observed in sex chromosome sequences and AFLP. Divergence dating of genetic elements corroborates the diversification of extant Noctilio beginning about 3 Ma, with ongoing hybridization between mitochondrial lineages separated by 2.5 myr. The timeframe of species' divergence within Noctilio supports the hypothesis that shifts in the dietary strategies of gleaning insects (N. albiventris) or fish (N. leporinus) are among the most rapid instances of dietary evolution observed in mammals. This study illustrates the complex evolutionary dynamics shaping gene pools in nature, how comparisons of genetic elements can serve for understanding species boundaries, and the complex considerations for accurate taxonomic assignment.
A NEW SOUND VELOCITY MEASUREMENT SYSTEM

At present, ranging with acoustic signals is the primary means for determining positions on the sea floor. Converting travel time measurements into distances requires accurate knowledge of the effective sound velocity along the propagation path. In fact, marine positioning accuracy is presently most limited by the uncertainty in determinations of the ocean’s sound velocity field. The best sea-going sound velocity meters have accuracies of a part in 104, which translates into position uncertainties of 100 centimeters in 10 kilometers. A recently developed sound velocity meter improves this accuracy by a factor of ten, using a time-averaged, phase com-parison process. A description of this sound velocity meter and a discussion of its calibration and accuracy are presented here. Ultimately, knowledge of sound velocity in the ocean is limited by the variability of the ocean’s temperature and salinity structure. Therefore, the requirement is to measure sound velocity accurately on time and length scales appropriate for the position measurement being made, and a brief discussion of statistical methods of measurement in the ocean in order to adequately model the spatial coherence and temporal variability of sound velocity follows.
The Clearinghouse Cure

The current financial crisis was brought on in part by the collapse of many housing-related credit default swap (CDS) contracts. As a result, regulators have seized on the idea of requiring a clearinghouse for these contracts as a way to make the market more secure. This article argues that the allure of a clearinghouse is largely superficial. Credit default swaps and other relatively exotic instruments traded in the over-the-counter market are almost certainly far more costly to clear than standardized futures and options contracts, and a clearinghouse would be the victim of information asymmetries. Moreover, a clearinghouse may worsen the risk of contagion, as all members share the cost of contract defaults.
2-Aminopyridines with a Truncated Side Chain to Improve Human Neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase Inhibitory Potency and Selectivity.

We have analyzed a recently obtained crystal structure of human neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and then designed and synthesized several 2-aminopyridine derivatives containing a truncated side chain to avoid the hydrophobic pocket that differentiates human and rat nNOS in an attempt to explore alternative binding poses along the substrate access channel of human nNOS. Introduction of an N-methylethane-1,2-diamine side chain and conformational constraints such as benzonitrile and pyridine as the middle aromatic linker were sufficient to increase human and rat nNOS binding affinity and inducible and endothelial NOS selectivity. We found that 14b is a potent inhibitor; the binding modes with human and rat nNOS are unexpected, inducing side chain rotamer changes in Gln478 (rat) at the top of the active site. Compound 19c exhibits Ki values of 24 and 55 nM for rat and human nNOS, respectively, with 153-fold iNOS and 1040-fold eNOS selectivity. 19c has 18% oral bioavailability.
Constructivism Versus Constructionism: A Curious Yet Critical Regard in the CRT

Constructivism and constructionism are two similar and related pedagogical concepts. This paper defines both and critiques them from the materialist perspective tracing out their historical roots and pointing to their pedagogical possibilities (greater learning) and risks (missing out on basic skills). Resituating constructivism/constructionism on a materialist base avoids the problem that intersubjectivism leads to: failure to recognize and promote basic skills.
A zone-plate X-ray microscope.

X-ray microscopes for observing biological specimens are discribed. Schematics of the x-ray microscopes are given for several types of imaging techniques, contact imaging, a projection x-ray, scanning x-ray, and imaging x-ray microscopes. X-ray optical arrangements of the imaging x-ray microscope using a laser-plasma x-ray source and zone plates are shown for estimating incident photon numbers on one pixel of CCD.
Soil Insecticides for Plum Curculio Control in Wisconsin

Soil treatments with aldrin and dieldrin in both small plots and in commercial applications gave excellent control of the plum curculio ( Conotrachelus nenuphar (Hbst.) for several consecutive years. Heptachlor also appeared promising in these tests. Wettable powder formulations applied in high gallonages of water appeared to give better control than granulated formulations. These insecticides provided more efficient control in cleanly cultivated orchards than in heavily sodded orchards.
Imagining the injured child: Engaging the social at a therapeutic community prison in Britain

Drawing on a comparison with the supermax (solitary confinement) prison in the United States, this article explores the meaning and social circulation of narratives of childhood trauma at HMP Grend...
Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy for the Management of Acid-Base and Electrolyte Imbalances in Acute Kidney Injury

Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) is used to manage electrolyte and acid-base imbalances in critically ill patients with acute kidney injury. Although a standard solution and prescription is acceptable in most clinical circumstances, specific disorders may require a tailored approach such as adjusting fluid composition, regulating CRRT dose, and using separate intravenous infusions to mitigate and correct these disturbances. Errors in fluid prescription, compounding, or delivery can be rapidly fatal. This article provides an overview of the principles of acid-base and electrolyte management using CRRT.
The Application of Anorectal Manometry in Infants after Enterostomy

Objective To evaluate the role of anorectal manometry in infants after enterostomy. Methods Anorectal manometry was performed in 53 enterostomal infants who was operated during neonatal period.The data of enem,surgery and pathology was analyzed at the same time. ResultsRAIR was normal in 47 patients and abnormal in 6.After surgery and pathology,3 was confirmed as Hirschsprung disease,5 was Intestinal neuronal dysplasia,6 was colonic stenosis,8 was meconium peritonitis,31 was neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis. Diagnostic accuracy rate of HD / IND was 96%. Conclusions Anorectal manometry was efficient in the diagnosis of infants after enterostomy.
Semantic design space refinement for model-based systems engineering

This paper describes a process developed to utilize information within an ontology, a form of a component model library, for design space refinement in conceptual design through the use of an Interactive Reconfigurable Matrix of Alternatives (IRMA). An ontological approach is proposed, as it enhances the capabilities of component model libraries that are already being constructed for use in model-based systems engineering (MBSE) programs. By defining a common vocabulary across multiple design domains, an ontology is capable of driving information consistency and reducing errors that occur due to misinterpretation of common vernacular. Within an ontology, a functional decomposition of any complex system can be represented as a hierarchy of "classes", where a class defines any concept within a given domain. The functions that each system must perform, along with the system components that achieve each function and the design alternatives for each component, are related to the system as properties of the system. This functional decomposition structure of the ontology may be identical to the decomposition that is used in an IRMA, which can use information exported from the ontology to perform design space refinement during conceptual design. The result of this study is a process which is capable of extracting information from an ontology, organizing it, and importing it directly to an IRMA which is fully functional and ready to be used. Such a process becomes a powerful capability when similar systems are designed, as the process can be reused, serving as a starting point for concept selection in conceptual design, resulting in reductions in both development time and cost.
Numerical Model and Formulation

This chapter summarizes the methodology of using numerical approaches to simulate multiphase fluid flow in reservoirs: (1) spatial discretization of mass and/or energy conservation equations, (2) time discretization using a backward, first-order, finite-difference scheme; and (3) iterative approaches to solve the resulting nonlinear, discrete algebraic equations. It presents a generalized, generic numerical formulation that can be used for simulating various types of multiphase fluid flow processes in both porous and fractured media. The methodology of the numerical model and formulation is based on a control-volume or integrated finite difference approach as well as mass-conservative discretization formulation. Then, the chapter focuses its attention on solution techniques, in which full implicit approaches are preferable for solving discrete nonlinear algebraic equations, with treatment of initial and boundary conditions, and needed efforts of model verification and validation.
Lack of Influence of Substrate on Ligand Interaction with the Human Multidrug and Toxin Extruder, MATE1

Multidrug and toxin extruder (MATE) 1 plays a central role in mediating renal secretion of organic cations, a structurally diverse collection of compounds that includes ∼40% of prescribed drugs. Because inhibition of transport activity of other multidrug transporters, including the organic cation transporter (OCT) 2, is influenced by the structure of the transported substrate, the present study screened over 400 drugs as inhibitors of the MATE1-mediated transport of four structurally distinct organic cation substrates: the commonly used drugs: 1) metformin and 2) cimetidine; and two prototypic cationic substrates, 3) 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP), and 4) the novel fluorescent probe, N,N,N-trimethyl-2-[methyl(7-nitrobenzo[c][1,2,5]oxadiazol-4-yl)amino]ethanaminium iodide. Transport was measured in Chinese hamster ovary cells that stably expressed the human ortholog of MATE1. Comparison of the resulting inhibition profiles revealed no systematic influence of substrate structure on inhibitory efficacy. Similarly, IC50 values for 26 structurally diverse compounds revealed no significant influence of substrate structure on the kinetic interaction of inhibitor with MATE1. The IC50 data were used to generate three-dimensional quantitative pharmacophores that identified hydrophobic regions, H-bond acceptor sites, and an ionizable (cationic) feature as key determinants for ligand binding to MATE1. In summary, in contrast to the behavior observed with some other multidrug transporters, including OCT2, the results suggest that substrate identity exerts comparatively little influence on ligand interaction with MATE1.
A Prospective Risk Model for Neutropenic Complications in Patients with Malignant Lymphoma.

Background: Myelosuppression including severe and febrile neutropenia continues to represent a major cause of dose-limiting toxicity of cancer chemotherapy. Neutropenic complications in cycle 1 have been shown to frequently lead to reduced dose intensity or addition of a myeloid growth factor. A prospective, nationwide study was undertaken to develop and validate risk models for first cycle neutropenic events associated with cancer chemotherapy. Methods: Patients with malignant lymphoma initiating a new chemotherapy regimen have been prospectively registered at 115 randomly selected practice sites. Data on at least one cycle of chemotherapy were available on 357 patients including 56 with Hodgkin’s disease and 301 with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. A logistic regression model for first cycle neutropenic events based on pretreatment characteristics was developed and predictive test performance characteristics examined. Results: Severe or febrile neutropenia occurred in 81 (22.7%) of patients in cycle 1. Two-thirds of patients with one or more neutropenic events experienced their initial event in cycle 1. Significant independent pretreatment predictive factors for first cycle neutropenic complications were: history of renal disease (OR=33.15, P=.011) or recent infection (OR=12.41, P=.035), Caucasian (OR=4.13, P=.053), use of an anthracycline-based chemotherapy regimen (OR=6.9, P<.001), baseline absolute neutrophil count (OR=0.95, P<.001) and lymphocyte count (OR=0.95, P<.001), anemia (OR=2.14, P=.043), elevated lactate dehydrogenase (OR=2.0, P=.040) and elevated bilirubin (OR=2.25, P=.051). Model fit was excellent (P<.001), R2= 0.503 and c-statistic = 0.769 [95% CL: .71–.83, P<.0001]. Individual predicted risk of cycle 1 events based on the model ranged from 0 to 96% with mean and median probabilities of 0.23 and 0.21, respectively. Two-thirds of patients were classified as high risk with mean risk scores in high and low risk subjects of 32.0% and 5.6%, respectively. Model test performance characteristics [±95% CL] included: sensitivity: 92% [84–96]; specificity: 40% [34–46]; likelihood ratio positive: 1.53 [1.36–1.73]; likelihood ratio negative: 0.19 [0.09–0.42]; positive predictive value: 32% [26–38]; negative predictive value: 94% [88–97] and diagnostic odds ratio: 7.92 [3.32–18.91]. Discussion: The risk model identified lymphoma patients at increased risk for first cycle neutropenic complications using common clinical parameters. Validation of the model in a separate population of patients is in progress.
Predicting point defect equilibria across oxide hetero-interfaces: model system of ZrO2/Cr2O3

We present a multi-scale approach to predict equilibrium defect concentrations across oxide/oxide hetero-interfaces. There are three factors that need to be taken into account simultaneously for computing defect redistribution around the hetero-interfaces: the variation of local bonding environment at the interface as epitomized in defect segregation energies, the band offset at the interface, and the equilibration of the chemical potentials of species and electrons via ionic and electronic drift-diffusion fluxes. By including these three factors from the level of first principles calculation, we build a continuum model for defect redistribution by concurrent solution of Poisson's equation for the electrostatic potential and the steady-state equilibrium drift-diffusion equation for each defect. This model solves for and preserves the continuity of the electric displacement field throughout the interfacial core zone and the extended space charge zones. We implement this computational framework to a model hetero-interface between the monoclinic zirconium oxide, m-ZrO2, and the chromium oxide Cr2O3. This interface forms upon the oxidation of zirconium alloys containing chromium secondary phase particles. The model explains the beneficial effect of the oxidized Cr particles on the corrosion and hydrogen resistance of Zr alloys. Under oxygen rich conditions, the ZrO2/Cr2O3 heterojunction depletes the oxygen vacancies and the sum of electrons and holes in the extended space charge zone in ZrO2. This reduces the transport of oxygen and electrons thorough ZrO2 and slows down the metal oxidation rate. The enrichment of free electrons in the space charge zone is expected to decrease the hydrogen uptake through ZrO2. Moreover, our analysis provides a clear anatomy of the components of interfacial electric properties; a zero-Kelvin defect-free contribution and a finite temperature defect contribution. The thorough analytical and numerical treatment presented here quantifies the rich coupling between defect chemistry, thermodynamics and electrostatics which can be used to design and control oxide hetero-interfaces.
Incorporating temporality into implicit leadership and followership theories: Exploring inconsistencies between time-based expectations and actual behaviors

Abstract Given that time is such a critical contextual variable in organizations and effectiveness indicators rarely exclude timeliness, we argue that temporal individual differences are an unfortunate omission from implicit leadership theories (ILTs) and implicit followership theories (IFTs). Both implicit theories and time-based individual differences are commonly undiscussed, but their subtle effects can manifest explicitly in behaviors and consequences that have real implications for leaders and followers in organizations. Therefore, in this conceptual paper, we draw attention to time patience (the extent to which individuals are unconcerned with or unfocused on deadlines and the passage of time), time perspective (the relative importance of past, present, and future events in ongoing thought processes and decision-making), polychronicity (the preference for multitasking), and pacing style (the manner in which individuals distribute their effort over time in working toward deadlines) as neglected, but research-worthy components of followers' ILTs and leaders' IFTs. By infusing time-related characteristics into leadership research, we not only consider the content and structure of temporal ILTs and IFTs, but also draw attention to potential inconsistency in leaders' temporal IFTs and followers' actual behaviors, as well as followers' temporal ILTs and leaders' actual behaviors. Further, we offer propositions that have prescriptive value in specifying the conditions under which temporal ILT and IFT inconsistency will be more or less detrimental to leader-follower coordination.
AutoBI - a tool for automatic toBI annotation.

This paper describes the AuToBI tool for automatic generation of hypothesized ToBI labels. While research on automatic prosodic annotation has been conducted for many years, AuToBI represents the first publicly available tool to automatically detect and classify the breaks and tones that make up the ToBI annotation standard. This paper describes the feature extraction routines as well as the classifiers used to detect and classify the prosodic events of the ToBI standard. Additionally, we report performance evaluating AuToBI models trained on the Boston Directions Corpus on the Columbia Games Corpus. By evaluating on distinct speakers domains and recording conditions, this evaluation represents an accurate representation of the performance of the system when applied to novel spoken material.
Complementary and alternative medicine use and hormonal therapy initiation in women with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer: The BQUAL study.

e13097Background: Use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has been associated with initiation of breast cancer chemotherapy.We examined the association of CAM use with initiation of hormonal therapy in women with hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer. Methods: In aprospective cohort study designed to examine predictors of breast cancer treatment initiation and adherence, 699 women with non-metastatic stage I-III breast cancer and aged < 70 years were recruited from Kaiser Permanente Northern California during 2006-2010. Baseline interviews assessed current use of five CAM modalities (dietary supplements: vitamins/minerals, herbs/botanicals, other natural products; mind/body therapies: mind-body self-practice, mind-body practitioner-based). Based on electronic pharmacy records, hormonal therapy initiation was defined as ≥2 prescriptions of ≥30 pills of any hormonal therapy drug within 1 year after diagnosis. Multivariable logistic regression analysis examined a priori hypotheses testing...
Determination of the Neutron Flux and Energy Spectrum and Calculation of Primary Recoil and Damage-Energy Distributions for Materials Irradiated in the Low Temperature Fast-Neutron Facility in CP-5

We have determined the absolute differential neutron-energy spectrum for the low temperature fast-neutron irradiation facility in the CP-5 reactor by means of a 20-foil activation technique. This technique employs the most recent version of the SAND-II computer code, which iteratively unfolds the neutron spectrum by fitting the foil activities. A Monte Carlo routine was also employed to calculate standard-deviation errors in each neutron-energy group. Using this differential neutron spectrum we have calculated for numerous elements, total recoil cross sections, detailed primary recoil group distributions, total damage-energy cross sections, damage-energy distributions, and an error analysis based on the uncertainties in the neutron spectrum. The significance of this information with respect to the interpretations of various neutron radiation damage experiments is discussed. A general observation about neutron radiation damage in silicon is also suggested.
Measurement of Expression of the Vasopressin and Oxytocin Genes in Single Neurons by In Situ Hybridization

Methods required for optimization of the in situ hybridization technique vary according to the message, the probe, the tissue used, and the regulatory question asked. There are independent technical dimensions which must be considered for discovering how to optimize each methodological step for a given experiment. Here, we offer a general outline of technical parameters that should be considered to optimize signal. This review is offered as an overview of relevant procedural principles in light of the extensive parametric reports of in situ hybridization (Bauman, et al., 1984; Brahic & Haase, 1978; Cox, et al., 1984; Gee & Roberts, 1983; Godard & Jones, 1979; Haase, et al., 1984; Henderson, 1982; Lawrence & Singer, 1985; McCabe, et al., 1985b,c; Pardue & Gall, 1975; Schachter, et al., 1985). Various investigators often report seemingly contradictory findings: these may have their basis in what tissue and probe are under study.
Exogenous Ascorbic Acid Mediated Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Plants

Ascorbic acid (AsA) plays various roles in regulating plant responses or tolerance to environmental stresses. The positive effects of exogenous AsA application are well documented, ranging from seed germination to biomass or yield production, particularly under various abiotic stress conditions. AsA is well known for its roles in ameliorating oxidative damages on plant growth, physiological and metabolic processes by activating nonenzymatic and enzymatic components of antioxidant metabolism. Exogenous AsA application also mitigates stress-inhibition of photosynthesis, delays leaf senescence or loss of chlorophyll, and helps maintain cell membrane stability. In addition, AsA also facilitates the maintenance of ion homeostasis (i.e., Na+, K+, Mg2+, Ca2+) in plants exposed to abiotic stress. Interactions between AsA, phytohormones, and other metabolites also play roles in regulating plant growth and stress adaptation. This chapter provides an overview of physiological, biochemical, and molecular effects of exogenous application of AsA for various plant species under abiotic stresses. Future research addressing transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic profiles will provide further insights into mechanisms of improved growth and stress tolerance brought by exogenous application of AsA.
Effects of Modulus of Rupture of Concrete on Performance of Unbonded Jointed Plain Concrete Overlay

Rehabilitation of existing jointed plain concrete pavements (JPCP) by using unbonded concrete overlay (UBCO) is increasingly being used all over the world. The design and performance of un-bonded overlays is affected by various factors including climate, traffic volume, concrete material properties, existing pavement condition and future design life. Modulus of rupture (MOR)/flexural strength of concrete is an important material property that has significant impact on the performance of concrete pavements. A true estimation of modulus of rupture would improve the accuracy of cracking prediction. This study examines the impact of variability of flexural strength of concrete on the mechanistic-empirical performance predictions of UBCOs. Simulations were conducted using pavement ME design software with varying flexural strength values and keeping all other design variables as constant. The results indicated that MOR has a significant impact on overlay performance. With decrease in concrete’s MOR, the performance of UBCOs is adversely affected with increased transverse cracking. The adverse effects of lower flexural strength can be compensated by increasing the thickness of overlay concrete slab or by decreasing the transverse joint spacing.
Laparoscopic Malabsorption Procedures: Controversies

Since Scopinaro published his landmark paper on biliopancreatic bypass for obesity in 1979, this operation, now more commonly known as biliopancreatic diversion (BPD), has been surrounded by controversy (1). It carries perceptions of being more dangerous to perform than other procedures and of having more severe metabolic sequelae. Many surgeons have thought that it should be reserved as a revisional procedure or used to advantage only in the super-obese. But surgeons who perform the operation point to its proven track record in maintaining weight loss, which they cite as the most cogent reason to use BPD as a primary bariatric operation. This dichotomy may be best summed up in a communication by Scopinaro in response to an algorithm for selecting bariatric procedures written by Buchwald (2). Buchwald described the BPD as being popular in Italy. Scopinaro (3) replied, “The BPD was conceived in Italy and is popular everywhere.”
Phase transitions in the Rényi entropies of a 2 + 1 D large- N interacting vector model

We consider the reduced density matrix for a disk in the ground state of the interacting fixed points of the large-$N\phantom{\rule{4pt}{0ex}}O(N)$ vector model in $2+1$ dimensions. Using the map to the free energy on ${\mathbb{H}}_{2}\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{S}^{1}$, we show that there is an instability in the R\'enyi entropies at $n=1$ in the $N\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\infty}$ limit, indicating a phase transition at or near this R\'enyi parameter. We close with a discussion of the finite-$N$ case.
New models of lipopolysaccharide-induced implantation loss reveal insights into the inflammatory response.

Problem Chronic endometritis, inflammation of the uterizzvvne lining caused by common gram-negative bacterial strains or mycoplasma, has been associated with unexplained implantation failure and infertility. However, limited models of bacteria-induced implantation loss exist to study the molecular changes that occur in vivo. The goal of this study was to provide a new resource to study the process of bacteria-induced inflammation and implantation loss utilizing common experimental models: C57Bl/6 mice and primary human endometrial stromal cells. Method of study Prior to implantation, mated C57Bl/6 females were administered vehicle (saline) or gram-negative bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) at a range of concentrations by intraperitoneal injection. Implantation sites were counted, and uteri were harvested to evaluate the molecular changes that accompany LPS-mediated implantation loss. Primary human endometrial stromal cells were decidualized in vitro in the presence and absence of LPS. Total RNA and conditioned media were harvested to evaluate the expression of known decidualization-associated genes and various cytokines and chemokines. Results Lipopolysaccharide treatment resulted in fewer implantation sites in mice, decreased expression of decidualization-associated genes, and altered expression and release of cytokines and chemokines. Immunohistological analysis of the uterus from LPS-exposed mice demonstrated increased apoptosis and decreased proliferation during decidualization. Conclusion Lipopolysaccharide exposure disrupted implantation and decidualization in mice and human endometrial stromal cells. This model could be used to study the pathophysiology of implantation failure in patients with chronic endometritis or to test potential therapeutic interventions.
Avoiding a Lemon: Performance Consistency of Single-Use Ureteroscopes.

Abstract Introduction and Objectives: Single-use flexible ureteroscopes are increasingly popular because of high repair costs of reusable ureteroscopes. As new single-use ureteroscopes enter the ma...
Development of a Method To Prioritize Protein-Ligand Pairs on Beads Using Protein Conjugated to a Near-IR Dye.

The development of techniques to screen one-bead–one-compound (OBOC) libraries remains a critical step in identifying small molecules that bind target proteins. While great strides have been made, there remains a need to continue to develop OBOC screening techniques that not only reliably identify hit molecules but also can distinguish poor from excellent binders in a single screen. Similarly, relatively strong binding between a small molecule and protein target is required to be considered a hit from the initial pool of screened molecules. Here, we present the framework for a method to screen OBOC libraries using proteins and antibodies stained with a near-infrared (NIR)-emitting fluorophore. These labeled proteins provide significant signal at very low concentrations because of their fluorescence quantum yield. This work revealed that we can detect proteins and antibodies interacting with a known binding partner at low nanomolar concentrations; binding is specific, and known binders to carbonic anhydras...
Vertebral osteomyelitis due to Candida species.

Objective We have noted an increased number of cases of vertebral osteomyelitis secondary to Candida species over the past few years at our facility. Our aim was to identify and review these cases to elucidate risk factors, treatment regimens and outcomes. Methods We performed a retrospective chart review using our electronic medical record and microbiology laboratory database to identify cases of vertebral osteomyelitis due to Candida at a single teaching hospital from 2006-2018. Results We found 15 cases of Candida vertebral osteomyelitis. The majority of cases were due to Candida albicans and affected either the lumbar or the thoracic spine. Injection drug use and previous spine surgery were the two most common risk factors identified. Treatment was largely with intravenous antifungal induction followed by prolonged therapy with oral fluconazole. There was no short-term mortality though we lacked long-term follow-up on most patients. Conclusions The number of vertebral infections due to Candida may be increasing. This may be partially driven by both a rise in intravenous drug use as well as the growing rate of spine surgery. Management following currently available guidelines seems favorable, though further studies are necessary to determine the optimal treatment regimen.
Dynamics of pore formation during laser powder bed fusion additive manufacturing.

Laser powder bed fusion additive manufacturing is an emerging 3D printing technique for the fabrication of advanced metal components. Widespread adoption of it and similar additive technologies is hampered by poor understanding of laser-metal interactions under such extreme thermal regimes. Here, we elucidate the mechanism of pore formation and liquid-solid interface dynamics during typical laser powder bed fusion conditions using in situ X-ray imaging and multi-physics simulations. Pores are revealed to form during changes in laser scan velocity due to the rapid formation then collapse of deep keyhole depressions in the surface which traps inert shielding gas in the solidifying metal. We develop a universal mitigation strategy which eliminates this pore formation process and improves the geometric quality of melt tracks. Our results provide insight into the physics of laser-metal interaction and demonstrate the potential for science-based approaches to improve confidence in components produced by laser powder bed fusion. Laser-matter interactions during laser powder bed fusion additive manufacturing remain poorly understood. Here, the authors combine in situ X-ray imaging and finite element simulations to show how detrimental pores form under printing conditions and develop a strategy to suppress them.
The Church and the Spirit in Robert Jenson’s Theology of Scripture:

In the last two decades of Robert Jenson’s career, he turned his attention to the doctrine of Scripture and its theological interpretation. This article explores the dogmatic structure and reasonin...
Osteophyte growth in early thumb carpometacarpal osteoarthritis.

Summary Objective Osteophyte formation is a critical part of the degeneration of a joint with osteoarthritis (OA). While often qualitatively described, few studies have succeeded in quantifying osteophyte growth over time. Using computed tomography (CT) image data from a longitudinal, observational study of thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) OA, our aim was to quantify osteophyte growth volume and location over a three-year period in men and women. Method Ninety patients with early thumb OA were recruited and assessed at baseline, 1.5 years, and 3 years with CT imaging. Osteophyte volume and location on the trapezium and first metacarpal were determined using a library of 46 healthy subjects as a nonarthritic reference database. Results There was a significant increase in osteophyte volume for women and men over the three-year follow-up in the trapezium (86.8 mm3–120.5 mm3 and 165.1 mm3–235.3 mm3, means respectively) and in the proximal metacarpal (63 mm3–80.4 mm3, and 115.8 mm3–161.7 mm3, respectively). The location of osteophyte initiation and growth was consistent across subjects and was located in non-opposing regions on the trapezium and first metacarpal. Osteophyte growth occurred about the radial and ulnar margins of the trapezial facet, while on the proximal metacarpal, growth occurred principally about the volar and dorsal margins of the facet. Conclusion Osteophyte growth occurred in early thumb osteoarthritis over three years. Growth was localized in specific, non-opposing regions on the trapezium and metacarpal, raising intriguing questions about the triggers for their formation, whether the mechanisms are mechanical, biological or a combination of both.
Striatal circuits for reward learning and decision-making

The striatum is essential for learning which actions lead to reward and for implementing those actions. Decades of experimental and theoretical work have led to several influential theories and hypotheses about how the striatal circuit mediates these functions. However, owing to technical limitations, testing these hypotheses rigorously has been difficult. In this Review, we briefly describe some of the classic ideas of striatal function. We then review recent studies in rodents that take advantage of optical and genetic methods to test these classic ideas by recording and manipulating identified cell types within the circuit. This new body of work has provided experimental support of some longstanding ideas about the striatal circuit and has uncovered critical aspects of the classic view that are incorrect or incomplete.
Abstract #4913: Role of Rac1 GTPase in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition and the \#8220;stemness\#8221; of human lung adenocarcinoma cells

The cancer stem cell theory predicts that a small population of cancer cells possesses unique self-renewal activity and is the source of cells with varying expansion and differentiation capabilities in tumors. Recently, side population (SP) cells, along with cells expressing a number of cell surface markers including CD133, have been identified in lung, brain, blood, colon, or breast cancers to represent an enriched cancer stem cell population [1, 2]. An interesting proposal has been put forward that epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a process known to be critical in several developmental programs and in cancer cell metastasis and invasion, promotes the characteristics of \#8220;stemness\#8221; in normal or cancer cells [3]. The latter study raises the possibility that targeting EMT may be beneficial in not only inhibiting cancer cell invasion but also blocking the cancer stem cell generation and tumorigenesis. Given the implicated role of Rac1 GTPase in tumor cell proliferation and in morphological transition associated with EMT, we have investigated the hypothesis that Rac1 is a critical mediator of cancer cell EMT and tumor initiating activity in human lung adenocarcinoma cells. We have found that (1) SP cells isolated from lung cancer cell lines are enriched for tumor initiating cells and possess increased colony-forming, migratory, and invasive activities; (2) the SP cells represent a distinct population from the CD133+ cells, with both containing an enriched tumor-initiating activity; (3) TGF\#946;1 induced EMT in A549 cells results in a complete disappearance, rather than an increase, of SP cells, and the effect of TGF\#946;1 on EMT and the SP population of cells is reversible; (4) Rac1 is significantly activated when the cells undergo EMT, and pharmacological or shRNA inhibition of Rac1 dampens the SP cell growth, migration, and invasion. We are in the process of sorting out the complex relationship amongst cancer stem cell activities, SP and CD133+ cell populations, EMT, and Rac1 activity, and are stringently testing in vitro cell models and in vivo mouse xenograft models. References: 1.%9Ho, M.M., et al., Side population in human lung cancer cell lines and tumors is enriched with stem-like cancer cells. Cancer Res, 2007. 67(10): p. 4827-33. 2.%9Eramo, A., et al., Identification and expansion of the tumorigenic lung cancer stem cell population. Cell Death Differ, 2008. 15(3): p. 504-14. 3.%9Mani, S.A., et al., The epithelial-mesenchymal transition generates cells with properties of stem cells. Cell, 2008. 133(4): p. 704-15. Citation Information: In: Proc Am Assoc Cancer Res; 2009 Apr 18-22; Denver, CO. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; 2009. Abstract nr 4913.
Factors influencing residents’ interest in gynecologic oncology fellowship

Abstract Objectives To identify the role of mentorship and other factors associated with obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) resident interest in pursuing a fellowship in gynecologic oncology. Methods A survey link was emailed to U.S. OB/GYN residency program coordinators to disperse to current residents. The 80-item survey asked about plans to pursue fellowship and influencing factors. Participants were stratified based on decision to pursue a fellowship in gynecologic oncology. Student’s t-test and Mann-Whitney tests were applied. Results Among 236 surveyed residents, 32 (13.6%) were planning to pursue a fellowship in gynecologic oncology. There were no demographic differences favoring the choice of gynecologic oncology; however, trainees at academic programs were more likely to aspire to the subspecialty (p = 0.01). Residents interested in gynecologic oncology had marginally more mentors than others (p = 0.06), were more likely to have a gynecologic oncology mentor (p Conclusions Strong mentor relationships and the display of job satisfaction and work-life balance influence OB/GYN residents’ interest in gynecologic oncology fellowships. Programs should consider formal mentorship programs for residents, with priority on matching by subspecialty. The value of fellow and faculty efforts in mentorship should be recognized, and appropriate time should be protected for these relationships, along with efforts to support fellows and faculty at risk for burnout.
Epigenetics and cell cycle regulation in cystogenesis

The role of genetic mutations in the development of polycystic kidney disease (PKD), such as alterations in PKD1 and PKD2 genes in autosomal dominant PKD (ADPKD), is well understood. However, the significance of epigenetic mechanisms in the progression of PKD remains unclear and is increasingly being investigated. The term of epigenetics describes a range of mechanisms in genome function that do not solely result from the DNA sequence itself. Epigenetic information can be inherited during mammalian cell division to sustain phenotype specifically and physiologically responsive gene expression in the progeny cells. A multitude of functional studies of epigenetic modifiers and systematic genome-wide mapping of epigenetic marks reveal the importance of epigenomic mechanisms, including DNA methylation, histone/chromatin modifications and non-coding RNAs, in PKD pathologies. Deregulated proliferation is a characteristic feature of cystic renal epithelial cells. Moreover, defects in many of the molecules that regulate the cell cycle have been implicated in cyst formation and progression. Recent evidence suggests that alterations of DNA methylation and histone modifications on specific genes and the whole genome involved in cell cycle regulation and contribute to the pathogenesis of PKD. This review summarizes the recent advances of epigenetic mechanisms in PKD, which helps us to define the term of "PKD epigenetics" and group PKD epigenetic changes in three categories. In particularly, this review focuses on the interplay of epigenetic mechanisms with cell cycle regulation during normal cell cycle progression and cystic cell proliferation, and discusses the potential to detect and quantify DNA methylation from body fluids as diagnostic/prognostic biomarkers. Collectively, this review provides concepts and examples of epigenetics in cell cycle regulation to reveal a broad view of different aspects of epigenetics in biology and PKD, which may facilitate to identify possible novel therapeutic intervention points and to explore epigenetic biomarkers in PKD.
Beyond Bricks and Mortar: A Qualitative Examination of Factors Influencing Diffusion of an Innovative PETE Graduate Program.

As novel approaches to post-graduate education emerge and professional learning concepts evolve, there is a need for additional research investigating the processes by which physical education teac...
You Have To Find Your Voice: James H. Cone’s Commitment to Theological Education

This reflection is on the teaching philosophy of James H. Cone (1938-2018). It connects Cone’s personal journey towards self-realization as a black theologian to his deeply held commitment to helping his students find and cultivate their own theological voice. The essay shares best practices from Cone’s methods within the classroom. It also describes his passion for teaching and love of his students. This is one of several short essays presented by recent students at a public forum at Union Theological Seminary after his death in 2018.
Extended Realities – How Changing Scale Affects Spatial Learning

Investigating the relationship between the human body and its environment is essential to understand the process of acquiring spatial knowledge. However, few empirical evaluations have looked at how the visual accessibility of an environment affects spatial learning through direct experiences. To address this gap, this paper extends research on geographic scale (ground vs. pseudo-aerial perspectives) by incorporating active exploration in a human study. Results indicate that only low spatial ability participants benefit from the pseudo-aerial perspective in terms of spatial learning. In contrast, high spatial ability participants make more efficient use of the normal ground perspective.