cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An open-label trial of the PPARγ ligand rosiglitazone for active ulcerative colitis

OBJECTIVES: Previous research has demonstrated that ligands for the γ subtype of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) reduce inflammation in two different murine models of colitis. This study was designed to examine the potential efficacy of rosiglitazone, a ligand for the γ subtype of PPARs, as a therapy for active ulcerative colitis. METHODS: Fifteen patients with mild to moderately active ulcerative colitis despite therapy with 5-aminosalicylic acid compounds were enrolled in an open-label study of rosiglitazone (4 mg b.i.d. p.o.) for 12 wk. Thirteen of 15 patients were receiving concomitant therapy with corticosteroids and/or immunomodulator medications. Disease activity was measured with the Disease Activity Index. RESULTS: After 12 wk of therapy, four patients (27%) had achieved clinical remission, of whom three (20%) also had an endoscopic remission. Four additional patients (27%) had a clinical response without achieving remission. Two patients were hospitalized with worsened disease activity, and one patient was withdrawn for nephrotic syndrome. CONCLUSIONS: These data suggest that ligands for the γ subtype of PPARs may represent a novel therapy for ulcerative colitis. A double blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial is warranted.
Rare cell capture technology for the diagnosis of leptomeningeal metastasis in solid tumors

Objective: To evaluate the utility of rare cell capture technology (RCCT) in the diagnosis of leptomeningeal metastasis (LM) from solid tumors through identification of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in the CSF. Methods: In this pilot study, CSF samples from 60 patients were analyzed. The main patient cohort consisted of 51 patients with solid tumors undergoing lumbar puncture for clinical suspicion of LM. Those patients underwent initial MRI evaluation and had CSF analyzed through conventional cytology and for the presence of CTCs using RCCT, based on immunomagnetic platform enrichment utilizing anti–epithelial cell adhesion molecule antibody-covered magnetic nanoparticles. An additional 9 patients with CSF pleocytosis but without solid tumors were separately analyzed to ensure accurate differentiation between CTCs and leukocytes. Results: Among the 51 patients with solid tumors, 15 patients fulfilled criteria for LM. CSF CTCs were found in 16 patients (median 20.7 CTCs/mL, range 0.13 to >150), achieving a sensitivity of 100% as compared with 66.7% for conventional cytology and 73.3% for MRI. One patient had a false-positive CSF CTC result (specificity = 97.2%); however, that patient eventually met LM criteria 6 months after the tap. CSF CTCs were not found in any of the additional 9 patients with CSF pleocytosis. Conclusion: RCCT is an accurate, novel method for the detection of LM in solid tumors, potentially providing earlier diagnostic confirmation and sparing patients from repeat lumbar punctures.
Role of Residues 121 to 124 of Vesicular Stomatitis Virus Matrix Protein in Virus Assembly and Virus-Host Interaction

The recent solution of the crystal structure of a fragment of the vesicular stomatitis virus matrix (M) protein suggested that amino acids 121 to 124, located on a solvent-exposed loop of the protein, are important for M protein self-association and association with membranes. These residues were mutated from the hydrophobic AVLA sequence to the polar sequence DKQQ. Expression and purification of this mutant from bacteria showed that it was structurally stable and that the mutant M protein had self-association kinetics similar to those of the wild-type M protein. Analysis of the membrane association of M protein in the context of infection with isogenic recombinant viruses showed that both wild-type and mutant M proteins associated with membranes to the same extent. Virus expressing the mutant M protein did show an approximately threefold-lower binding affinity of M protein for nucleocapsid-M complexes. In contrast to the relatively minor effects of the M protein mutation on virus assembly, the mutant virus exhibited growth restriction in MDBK but not BHK cells, a slower induction of apoptosis, and lower viral-protein synthesis. Despite translating less viral protein, the mutant virus produced more viral mRNA, showing that the mutant virus could not effectively promote viral translation. These results demonstrate that the 121-to-124 region of the VSV M protein plays a minor role in virus assembly but is involved in virus-host interactions and VSV replication by augmenting viral-mRNA translation.
Bats of the Wildcat Hills and Surrounding Areas in Western Nebraska

During the last few decades, detailed studies of bats have been conducted in many parts of Nebraska, but comprehensive surveys were lacking in the Wildcat Hills and other western regions of the state. The Wildcat Hills represent a unique and isolated area of rugged buttes, ridges, and canyons dominated by ponderosa pine forests (Pinus ponderosa) in central parts of Nebraska's panhandle. This area also contains landscapes with some of the highest wind speeds in the state, making it conducive for future wind-energy development. To better understand the natural history of bats and to promote conservation efforts in the region, we report on the distribution of bats and their habitats, as well as on their relative abundance, seasonal activity, and reproduction in the Wildcat Hills and surrounding areas. From August 1997 to July 2011, we captured 968 bats representing 7 species, and we also examined museum specimens previ- ously collected by other researchers from the region. For 5 species, we extend the known period of nonhibernating activity in the state, and we provide evidence of reproducing populations for 7 species in the region based on presence of lactating females. New reproductive information for bats in Nebraska also includes timing of pregnancy and lactation, as well as presence of volant young. For migratory species during autumn migration, hoary bats (Lasiurus cinereus) and eastern red bats (Lasiurus borealis) began moving through the region earlier (late July / early August) than silver-haired bats (Lasionycteris noctivagans). Documentation of the little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus) in riparian areas and buildings along the North Platte River represents a range extension for this species from the Pine Ridge in northwestern Nebraska. Knowledge gained from our long-term study will assist resource managers and biologists in efforts to protect and manage bats as these bats face unprecedented challenges in the future with development of additional wind-energy facilities and likely westward spread of white-nose syndrome in North America.
Multiparametric assessment of vascular function in peripheral artery disease: dynamic measurement of skeletal muscle perfusion, blood-oxygen-level dependent signal, and venous oxygen saturation.

Background— Endothelial dysfunction present in patients with peripheral artery disease may be better understood by measuring the temporal dynamics of blood flow and oxygen saturation during reactive hyperemia than by conventional static measurements. Methods and Results— Perfusion, Intravascular Venous Oxygen saturation, and T2* (PIVOT), a recently developed MRI technique, was used to measure the response to an ischemia–reperfusion paradigm in 96 patients with peripheral artery disease of varying severity and 10 healthy controls. Perfusion, venous oxygen saturation SvO2, and T2* were each quantified in the calf at 2-s temporal resolution, yielding a dynamic time course for each variable. Compared with healthy controls, patients had a blunted and delayed hyperemic response. Moreover, patients with lower ankle-brachial index had (1) a more delayed reactive hyperemia response time, manifesting as an increase in time to peak perfusion in the gastrocnemius, soleus, and peroneus muscles, and in the anterior compartment, (2) an increase in the time to peak T2* measured in the soleus muscle, and (3) a prolongation of the posterior tibial vein SvO2 washout time. Intrasession and intersession repeatability were also assessed. Results indicated that time to peak perfusion and time to peak T2* were the most reliable extracted time course metrics. Conclusions— Perfusion, dynamic SvO2, and T2* response times after induced ischemia are highly correlated with peripheral artery disease severity. Combined imaging of peripheral microvascular blood flow and dynamics of oxygen saturation with Perfusion, intravascular SvO2, and T2* may be a useful tool to investigate the pathophysiology of peripheral artery disease.
ESTABLISHING AND MAINTAINING TREATMENT EFFECTS WITH LESS INTRUSIVE CONSEQUENCES VIA A PAIRING PROCEDURE

The generality and long-term maintenance of a pairing procedure designed to improve the efficacy of less intrusive procedures were evaluated for the treatment of problem behavior maintained by automatic reinforcement exhibited by 2 individuals with developmental disabilities. Results suggested that a less intrusive procedure could be established as a conditioned punisher by pairing it with an effective punisher contingent on problem behavior. Generalization across multiple therapists was demonstrated for both participants. However, generalization to another setting was not achieved for 1 participant until pairing was conducted in the second setting. Long-term maintenance was observed with 1 participant in the absence of further pairing trials. Maintenance via intermittent pairing trials was successful for the other participant.
The “no reflow” phenomenon following acute myocardial infarction: Mechanisms and treatment options

If 'no reflow' is observed within 45min of reperfusion using balloon angioplasty or stent, it is probably related to microthromboemboli, which may also contribute to the extension of the 'no reflow' zone by converting 'low reflow' areas into necrotic ones even when reperfusion is achieved more than 45min after the onset of coronary occlusion. Since 'no reflow' is noted when 45min of coronary occlusion has elapsed even in the absence of a thrombus, 'no reflow' late after reperfusion is predominantly due to tissue necrosis and unlikely to be resolved unless methods to reduce infarct size are used. Attempts at reducing the intracoronary thrombus burden during a coronary procedure for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) have been shown to reduce 'no reflow' and improve clinical outcome, as has the use of potent antithrombotic agents. Drugs that can reduce infarct size, when given intracoronary or intravenous in conjunction with a coronary intervention during AMI can also reduce 'no reflow' and improve outcomes in patients with AMI. The prognostic importance of 'no reflow' post-AMI is related to its close correspondence with infarct size. Although several imaging and non-imaging methods have been used to assess 'no reflow' or 'low reflow' myocardial contrast echocardiography remains the ideal method for its assessment both in and outside the cardiac catheterization laboratory.
The Effects of Anger Control Training on Adolescent Antisocial Behavior

This article describes research on the effects of an anger control training (ACT) program conducted in a group home for adolescents in state custody for unruly and delinquent behavior. Comparisons were made between changes in antisocial behavior shown by adolescents who went through ACT and those shown by (a) a random sample of comparable adolescents in state custody and (b) adolescents in a comparison group home. Results suggest that adolescents who received ACT showed greater improvement in overcoming antisocial behavior than did adoles cents in either comparison group and that greater improvements were associated with longer involvement in ACT. Time-series data on rate of acting out incidents per week per client over a period of 61 weeks also were analyzed. Results suggest that statistically reliable improvements in rate of antisocial behavior began with the start of ACT and then began to deteriorate after an unplanned cessation of the ACT program.
Dietary folate deficiency and elevated homocysteine levels endanger dopaminergic neurons in models of Parkinson's disease

Although the cause of Parkinson's disease (PD) is unknown, data suggest roles for environmental factors that may sensitize dopaminergic neurons to age-related dysfunction and death. Based upon epidemiological data suggesting roles for dietary factors in PD and other age-related neurodegenerative disorders, we tested the hypothesis that dietary folate can modify vulnerability of dopaminergic neurons to dysfunction and death in a mouse model of PD. We report that dietary folate deficiency sensitizes mice to MPTP-induced PD-like pathology and motor dysfunction. Mice on a folate-deficient diet exhibit elevated levels of plasma homocysteine. When infused directly into either the substantia nigra or striatum, homocysteine exacerbates MPTP-induced dopamine depletion, neuronal degeneration and motor dysfunction. Homocysteine exacerbates oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis in human dopaminergic cells exposed to the pesticide rotenone or the pro-oxidant Fe(2+). The adverse effects of homocysteine on dopaminergic cells is ameliorated by administration of the antioxidant uric acid and by an inhibitor of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase. The ability of folate deficiency and elevated homocysteine levels to sensitize dopaminergic neurons to environmental toxins suggests a mechanism whereby dietary folate may influence risk for PD.
Synthesis, characterization, peripheral studies and structural analysis of tri(p-anisy1) selenonium trifluoroacetate

Abstract The X-ray structural investigation of tri(p-anisyl) selenonium trifluoroacetate, C23H21F3O5Se(H20)0.5 (I) has been carried out by means of three dimensional single-crystal diffractometry. The title compound (I) crystallizes in space group C2/c (No. 15, Z=8). The lattice constants are a=14.988(3), b=16.212(2), c=19.898(9) A, β=110.79(2)°. A full-matrix least-squares refinement program yielded a final reliability (R) factor of 0.039 based on 1977 unique reflections. Characterizations include physical property determinations and spectrometric identifications employing I.R., 1H and 13C NMR and X-ray powder analyses. The molecules in the crystal lattice are held together by van der Waals forces and hydrogen bonding. Selected bond distances and angles are presented and discussed as well as synthesis and peripheral studies.
Phylogenetic Relationships of the Eocene Percomorph Fishes †Priscacara and †Mioplosus

ABSTRACT The early Eocene great lakes of the Green River system preserved a rich fauna, allowing detailed study of the paleoecology of the area. Two genera, †Priscacara and †Mioplosus, are interesting because they are among the earliest well-known representatives of Percoidei sensu lato, and so offer a chance to explore the evolution of the North American fish fauna. A phylogenetic analysis including †Priscacara, †Mioplosus, and representatives of some ‘basal’ percoid families suggests that †Priscacara is a member of Moronidae, and that †Mioplosus has affinities with Lateolabrax, Siniperca, and Lates. †Priscacara is recovered as paraphyletic relative to the rest of Moronidae, primarily on the basis of meristic characters; in the absence of more robust evidence, both †P. serrata and †P. liops are retained within †Priscacara. The phylogenetic position of †Priscacara suggests a trans-Atlantic connection, because Moronidae contain genera from eastern North America and Europe. †Mioplosus is suggestive of an As...
The Coerciveness of International Law

This article shows that an important part of the deep structure of international law is its self-referential strategy of employing its own rules to protect its rules. International law tolerates a principled violation of its own rules when necessary to keep other rules from being broken. It extends a legal privilege to states to use coercion against any state that has selfishly attempted to transgress its international obligations. International law thus protects itself through the opportunistic deployment of its own rules.
Retention of Sulfates by Fired Clay Products

Sulfate is retained in a fired clay product as adsorbed sulfur trioxide and sulfate salts. These salts react with silicates at temperatures within the firing range of clay products, but the reaction rates and mechanisms may prevent the reaction from going to completion. The mechanism of efflorescence has been clarified by these studies.
Time to Stop Blaming Gastroesophageal Reflux

Objectives. Cough, pain, and desaturation episodes in infants are often ascribed to gastroesophageal reflux, and many are empirically treated with acid suppression medications. The authors hypothesize that most of these symptoms are not related to gastroesophageal reflux. Methods. Retrospective review of 186 combined pH–multichannel intraluminal impedance studies performed in infants at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Results. Of 4159 symptoms reported 1504 (36%) were associated with reflux events (27% nonacid and 9% acid). When total number of symptoms and reflux events were taken into consideration, nonacid reflux events were as likely to be associated with a symptom as acid reflux events (P = .66). Conclusion. The extra-esophageal symptoms commonly attributed to gastroesophageal reflux in infants are most often not associated with a reflux event. Even though causality cannot be definitively proven, in the minority in whom a symptom association is observed, nonacid events are as likely as acid events to...
Classical Helium Heat Transfer

To obtain a better physical feeling for pool boiling heat transfer, it is helpful to consider a hypothetical experimental system. Such an experiment, shown in Fig. 5.1, consists of a flat heated plate with some arbitrary orientation exposed to an effectively infinite bath of liquid helium. The experiment consists of heating the plate from inside the insulated region and measuring the temperature difference between the bath and surface, ΔT s , as it varies with heat flux q. There are a number of variables that affect the results in this experiment. Among these are bath temperature and pressure, surface orientation, physical characteristics of the heated surface including coatings, and frequency of heat flux. The general impact of these variables is described further below.
Deep Venous Thrombosis as a Complication of Reservoir Placement in Post‐Prostatectomy Erectile Dysfunction and Urinary Incontinence Prosthetic Surgery

Abstract Introduction In 2014, most radical surgery for carcinoma of the prostate, and often the bladder, is done with the robotic‐assisted laparoscopic approach. While proponents argue that nerve sparing, blood loss, and recovery times are improved with the robotic‐assisted approach, changes in postoperative pelvic anatomy have made subsequent placement of inflatable devices for erectile dysfunction and incontinence more difficult. Because of the obliteration of the space of Retzius and opening of the peritoneum, the classic placement of the reservoirs of these devices is compromised. Aim Ectopic reservoir placement has attempted to alleviate these problems, but reservoir migration and problematic locations of these reservoirs persist. Method We report two cases of deep venous thrombosis after reservoir placement for inflatable prosthetic devices. Main Outcome Measure and Results Patients may manifest these placement problems with symptoms of vascular compromise postoperatively. Conclusion Early identification and reservoir relocation can eliminate the vascular issues and maintain inflatable device function. Selph JP, McKim SE, Langston JP, and Carson CC. Deep venous thrombosis as a complication of reservoir placement in post‐prostatectomy erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence prosthetic surgery. Sex Med Rev 2014;2:59–63.
Constructing Constitutive Relationships for Seismic and Aseismic Fault Slip

For the purpose of modeling natural fault slip, a useful result from an experimental fault mechanics study would be a physically-based constitutive relation that well characterizes all the relevant observations. This report describes an approach for constructing such equations. Where possible the construction intends to identify or, at least, attribute physical processes and contact scale physics to the observations such that the resulting relations can be extrapolated in conditions and scale between the laboratory and the Earth. The approach is developed as an alternative but is based on Ruina (1983) and is illustrated initially by constructing a couple of relations from that study. In addition, two example constitutive relationships are constructed; these describe laboratory observations not well-modeled by Ruina’s equations: the unexpected shear-induced weakening of silica-rich rocks at high slip speed (Goldsby and Tullis, 2002) and fault strength in the brittle ductile transition zone (Shimamoto, 1986). The examples, provided as illustration, may also be useful for quantitative modeling.
The national internal labor market encounters the local labor market: Effects on employee retention

Abstract Formal salary systems are commonplace among medium to large-sized firms and within the United States government. However, there is little evidence regarding the costs, if any, of such systems. This study analyzes the effects on retention within the United States Air Force from an inflexible wage system failing to adequately compensate personnel for local compensating wage differentials. Using location-specific Air Force personnel records, I compare the differences between military and civilian wages, by occupation, across locations to determine if local labor markets play a significant role in the stay or leave decisions for personnel. Results show that rigid wage constraints do in fact impose costs on the firm through increased turnover in locations that fail to adequately adjust wages for the cost of living and amenities.
Tumor Cell Resistance to Apoptosis by Infi ltrating Cytotoxic Lymphocytes

Cancer patients have been treated with conventional chemotherapy, radiation, and hormonal therapy with significant clinical responses. However, patients develop resistance and they no longer respond to the above therapies. Immunotherapy has been considered as an alternative approach to overcome resistance and several antibody-mediated new cell-mediated therapies have been introduced and yielded significant clinical responses. The development of cell mediated antitumor cytotoxic immunotherapy has also advanced significantly with the design of numerous strategies to generate a specific antitumor cytotoxic response. However, the clinical response with cytotoxic immunotherapy remains poor and several proposed mechanisms have been suggested for the poor response. One mechanism that received little attention is the development of tumor cell resist- ance to cytotoxic stimuli, including both antibody-mediated and cell- mediated. The resistance, inherent or acquired, primarily results from the dysregulation of apoptotic pathways in the tumor cells and thus rendering them refractory to apoptotic stimuli including chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy. The development of cross-resistance to apoptosis may play an important role in the poor clinical response observed in patients with a strong cytotoxic immune system. The molecular understanding of immune resistance identified many targets whose modifications by selective sensitizing agents reversed resistance. Such sensitiz- ing agents included low concentrations of chemotherapeutic drugs, chemical and pharmacological inhibitors of survival pathways, anti-receptor antibodies, siRNA, cytokines, etc. Such sensitizing agents when used in combination with immuno- therapy reversed immune resistance. In addition, the tumor microenvironment is regulated by infiltrating cells and the secretion of several factors that regulate tumor cell sensitivity to killing. Agents that can interfere with these factors should potenti- ate the reversal of immune resistance.
A precise embedded curvature sensor module for soft-bodied robots

Abstract As an emerging field, soft-bodied robots require profoundly different approaches to sensing and actuation compared to their rigid-bodied counterparts. Electro-mechanical design, fabrication, and operational challenges due to material elasticity significantly complicate embedded, modular and precise proprioceptive feedback. This work presents a novel curvature sensor module to address the unique soft robotic specifications. The proposed device utilizes a magnet and an electronic Hall effect sensing component to accurately measure curvatures on a soft-bodied bending segment on a flexible circuit board, ensuring contact-free sensing. We verify performance of sensor modules on static and dynamic bending deformations based on a single initial calibration step. To the best of our knowledge, the presented device is the first modular and integrated soft-bodied sensor design that is demonstrated to be accurate up to 7.5 Hz with a root mean square error of 0.023 cm −1 between measured and actual curvature without filtering out the intrinsic noise, and available for use with soft-bodied kinematic bending chains.
Cytogenetic Abnormalities in MGUS and Myeloma

There is clear evidence that chromosomal abnormalities play a major role in the pathogenesis and progression of multiple myeloma (MM). MM can be divided into two major subcategories: hyperdiploid MM (H-MM) which is composed of cases with multiple trisomies of the odd numbered chromosomes and non-hyperdiploid MM (NH-MM) which is characterized by translocations of the IgH locus. Specific cytogenetic abnormalities predict the clinical outcome of patients. Determination of the common cytogenetic aberrations is an integral part of MM patients’ clinical evaluation.
Anxiety Predicts Increases in Struggles with Religious/Spiritual Doubt Over Two Weeks, One Month, and One Year

ABSTRACTStruggles with religious/spiritual (r/s) doubt occur when uncertainty, questions, and hesitancy about aspects of r/s beliefs and experiences become a source of conflict. Cross-sectional research suggests that doubt-related struggles correlate with anxiety, yet no studies have investigated the temporal patterning of the associations between these constructs. We employed three large samples (Ns = 268, 527, 292) to examine concurrent and prospective associations between struggles with r/s doubt and anxiety over three time frames: 2 weeks, 1 month, and 1 year. Analyses revealed that (a) each construct exhibited high cross-temporal stability; (b) there were moderate, positive concurrent associations between anxiety and doubt-related struggles; (c) anxiety predicted increases in doubt-related struggles over each time frame; and (d) there was mixed evidence regarding whether doubt-related struggles predicted changes in anxiety over time. The discussion focuses on how anxiety may begin to undermine confid...
Role of miR206 in genistein-induced rescue of pulmonary hypertension in monocrotaline model.

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a progressive lung disease associated with proliferation of smooth muscle cells and constriction of lung microvasculature, leading to increased pulmonary arterial pre...
Insured Pension Funds - Who Benefits?

The defined pension plans of many firms are underfunded. The Pension Benefits Guaranty Corporation was created to protect retirees, but who really benefits?
Lay press material on preterm birth: no real progress in education on potentially problematic outcomes.

Premature birth has many implications for the newborn, parents, other family members, and the healthcare system. Ten years ago, a literature search was executed through US newspapers, magazines, and news wires over a 6-month period to determine the scope of lay media coverage concerning premature bi
The Content of Our #Characters: Black Twitter as Counterpublic

Much media attention has been placed on “Black Twitter,” a collective composed primarily of African Americans who have managed to effect change through the microblogging platform Twitter. Organized...
Evaluation of the effects of phenylalanine and carboxylate on the rheological behaviors of small molecule hydrogelators containing naphthalene

By systematically altering the number and position of phenylalanine and carboxylate groups on a series of hydrogelators containing a naphthalene motif, we evaluated the correlation of molecular structures, self-assembly, and the rheological properties of the hydrogels. The storage moduli of the hydrogels decrease with the increase of the number of phenylalanine or with the insertion of a cysteine residue, and the effect of the carboxylic group on the rheological properties depends on the backbone of the hydrogelators. Transmission electron microscopy shows that these hydrogelators self-assemble in water to form nanofibers and result in threedimensional networks. Circular dichroism experiment indicates the hydrogelators self-assemble to form β-sheet-like structure within the nanofibers. This work suggests that control of the synergy of hydrogen bonding and aromatic-aromatic interactions may offer a feasible way to modulate the rheological properties of molecular hydrogels consisting of small molecules.
Durkheim's and Spencer's Principles of Social Organization: A Theoretical Note

Durkheim's and Spencer's theoretical ideas are often considered to be antagonistic, primarily because contemporary sociology accepts Durkheim's portrayal of Spencer. This article argues that, in ac...
Accelerating Applications of Metal-Organic Frameworks for Gas Adsorption and Separation by Computational Screening of Materials

The selection of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) for gas adsorption and separation has become a significant challenge over the past decade because of the large number of new structures reported every year. We applied a multiscale computational approach to screen existing MOFs for CO2/N2 separation. Pore characteristics of 1163 MOFs were analyzed by the method developed by Haldoupis, Nair, and Sholl (Haldoupis, E.; Nair, S.; Sholl, D. S. J. Am. Chem. Soc.2010, 132, 7528) using a simple steric model. On the basis of the pore size analysis, 359 MOFs were examined by classical molecular simulations. Adsorption and diffusion properties were computed using grand canonical Monte Carlo (GCMC) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, respectively. These molecular simulations were used to assess which materials hold the greatest promise as membrane materials for CO2/N2 separations. Finally, density functional theory (DFT) calculations were performed to provide preliminary information on the dynamic framework motion...
Predictors of soft‐tissue complications and deep infection in allograft reconstruction of the proximal tibia

Background and Objectives Reconstruction of the proximal tibia after wide resection of malignant tumors in the pediatric population is very challenging. Advocates of allograft reconstruction argue as advantages bone preservation, biological reconstruction that facilitates reattachment of the extensor mechanism and other soft-tissue structures, delay of metallic prosthesis use and preservation of the distal femoral growth plate. However, complications are significant, infection being very common. Methods Under IRB-approved protocol, 32 patients (17 males, 15 females), 13 years old in average (2–20), who underwent 33 allograft reconstructions of the proximal tibia, were evaluated for the occurrence of soft-tissue complications and/or deep infection (infection affecting the allograft). Potential predictors of soft-tissue complications and deep infection, categorized as pre- and perioperative variables, were analyzed in relation to the risk for developing a soft-tissue complication or a deep infection. Results The prevalence of soft-tissue complications was 48% (16/33). However, we were not able to identify any significant predictors. The prevalence of deep (allograft) infection was 15% (5/33). Multivariate logistic regression determined higher BMI at the index surgical procedure and lower pre-operative WBC to be independent predictors of deep infection. For each unit of increase in BMI, the odds of deep infection increased by 40% (OR = 1.40; CI = 1.07–3.06; P < 0.05). For each one unit (1,000) of increase in the pre-operative white cell-count, the odds of deep infection decreased by 70% (OR = 0.30; 95%CI = 0.01–0.89; P < 0.05). Four of the five deep infections were in patients with soft-tissue complications, mainly wound dehiscence. However, wound dehiscence or soft-tissue complications were not predictive of deep infection. Conclusion Soft-tissue complications are prevalent in allograft reconstruction of the proximal tibia. Prevention is important as these may progress to deep infection. Careful attention to nutritional (BMI) and immunological status may help in patient selection for allograft reconstruction. If allograft reconstruction is opted for, efforts should focus on optimization of these factors as they proved to be independent predictors of subsequent deep infection. J. Surg. Oncol. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Damage-free laser patterning of silicon nitride on textured crystalline silicon using an amorphous silicon etch mask for Ni/Cu plated silicon solar cells

Abstract We investigate the optimization of laser ablation with a femtosecond laser for direct and indirect removal of SiNx on alkaline textured c-Si. Our proposed resist-free indirect removal process uses an a-Si:H etch mask and is demonstrated to have a drastically improved surface quality of the laser processed areas when compared to our direct removal process. Scanning electron microscope images of ablated sites show the existence of substantial surface defects for the standard direct removal process, and the reduction of those defects with our proposed process. Opening of SiNx and SiOx passivating layers with laser ablation is a promising alternative to the standard screen print and fire process for making contact to Si solar cells. The potential for small contacts from laser openings of dielectrics coupled with the selective deposition of metal from light induced plating allows for high-aspect-ratio metal contacts for front grid metallization. The minimization of defects generated in this process would serve to enhance the performance of the device and provides the motivation for our work.
“I’m Not Such a Fool as I Seem”

In the earliest years of the new century, Galsworthy’s clan, especially members of the younger generation, regarded him as increasingly different. Having abruptly stopped shooting, he shaved off the full, although never waxed, moustache that he had worn most of the time during the 1890s. Dorothy Ivens recalls her first memories of him, in 1901 or 1902, when he came for dinner and watched her and her sisters perform a playlet she had written: “Uncle Jack roared, he really laughed, throwing his head back and forth, so unlike the other relatives. And he gave each of us girls a gold half-sovereign.”1 She recognized other ways in which he was different: “he encouraged my first efforts although the family code was dead against expression”.2 When she learned, a short time later, that her cousin was trying to become a writer, she became his “defender” in the midst of a family that combined affection for him with disapproval. She quotes her grandmother Randall as reflecting the general opinion within the extended family: “Poor, dear Jack. He’s so handsome and charming, but he will waste his time scribbling when he could have pleased his father so much and been such a success at the bar.
Significance of brown and/or green amniotic fluid at the time of second trimester genetic amniocentesis.

During a two-year period, 83 discolored fluids (77 green, six brown) were obtained during genetic amniocenteses of 1227 patients. When compared with case-matched control subjects, those patients with discolored fluid had no differences in the incidence of spontaneous abortions, abnormal fetal karyotypes, infant abnormalities, occurrence of preterm labor, or requirement for delivery by cesarean section. The only statistically significant difference between control and test patients was that one in 83 versus 32 of 83 reported bleeding before amniocentesis (P less than .001). Both green and brown fluids had spectrophotometric peaks at 400 to 408 nm, similar to that reported for meconium. However, discolored fluid had measurable free hemoglobin, whereas meconium-stained fluid from term gestations did not, suggestive of an in utero hemorrhage. Further, when fetal blood, in concentrations calculated to yield a hemoglobin content similar to those measured in the discolored fluids, was incubated in amniotic fluid the spectrophotometric peak and absorbance units at 400 to 408 nm were similar to those for the discolored fluids. These observations are supportive of the hypothesis that blood breakdown products from an episode of intrauterine bleeding are responsible for the discolored fluid. Discolored amniotic fluid during second trimester, as an isolated finding, does not prognosticate a poor pregnancy outcome.
Design of AZO film for optically transparent antennas

The design process for transparent conductive aluminum zinc oxide film AZO is presented in this document. The optimized RF conductivity and light transmittance properties of such film make it an attractive candidate for transparent antennas that are proposed for integration with solar cells.
Commentary on "Sonata Form in the Nineteenth-Century Symphony"

This commentary compares observational corpus analysis and hypothesis-driven analytical methods, and discusses the methods used in Cannon's "Sonata Form in the Nineteenth-Century Symphony" article.
Dynamical quantum anomalous Hall effect in strong optical fields

Topological insulators are characterized by the quantum anomalous Hall effect (QAHE) on the topological surface states under time-reversal symmetry breaking. Motivated by recent experiments on the magneto-optical effects induced by the QAHE, we develop a theory for the dynamical Hall conductivity for subgap optical frequency and intense optical fields using the Keldysh-Floquet Green's function formalism. Our theory reveals a nonlinear regime in which the Hall conductivity remains close to ${e}^{2}/2h$ at low frequencies. At higher optical fields, we find that the subsequent collapse of the half quantization is accompanied by coherent oscillations of the dynamical Hall conductivity as a function of field strength, triggered by the formation of Floquet subbands and the concomitant intersubband transitions.
Orientation Based Accelerometer Analysis (OBAA) for Mobile Gestures: Memorable Authentication

Mobile authentication today primarily relies on Personal Identification Numbers (PINs). For PINs to be secure from the majority of malicious users, it must contain a high number of digits and be entropic. Human memory generally struggles when it attempts to recall highly entropic numeric codes. Gesture-based authentication using Quick Reference (QR) codes, and internally analyzed accelerometer data from mobile devices, allow for sustaining a more user-friendly, memorable, and low expense alternative to PINs. This paper presents a technique for users to capture movements of their mobile device by analyzing the orientation of devices and the speed at which these orientations transition via accelerometer data. These motions are described as the user’s gesture. Gestures can be used to identify a user, while QR codes can be used to indicate a specific machine a user can attempt to authenticate with. A user study was performed and showed gesture-based authentication results in a more user preferred, entropic and memorable authentication system in comparison to similar applications.
Percutaneous transcatheter balloon dilatation and stenting to the inflow cannula stenosis of a left ventricular assist device

Left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) improve survival in patients with advanced heart failure but are prone to various complications causing mechanical failure. Inflow cannula stenosis presents a particular challenge often requiring invasive surgical repair. We present a novel transcatheter approach for stent delivery to successfully restore hemodynamic function in a patient with inflow cannula stenosis of a HeartMate II LVAD. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Impact of proximal seal zone length and intramural hematoma on clinical outcomes and aortic remodeling after thoracic endovascular aortic repair for aortic dissections

Abstract Objective Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) has become standard treatment of complicated type B aortic dissections (TBADs). Whereas adequate proximal seal is a fundamental requisite for TEVAR, what constitutes "adequate" in dissections and its impact on outcomes remain unclear. The goal of this study was to describe the proximal seal zone achieved with associated clinical outcomes and aortic remodeling. Methods A retrospective review was performed of TEVARs for TBAD at a single institution from 2006 to 2016. Three-dimensional centerline analysis of preoperative computed tomography was used to identify the primary entry tear, dissection extent, distances between arch branches, and intramural hematoma (IMH) involvement of the proximal seal zone. Patients were categorized into group A, those with proximal extent of seal zone in IMH/dissection-free aorta, and group B, those with landing zone entirely within IMH. Clinical outcomes including retrograde type A dissection (RTAD), death, and aortic reinterventions were recorded. Postoperative computed tomography scans were analyzed for remodeling of the true and false lumen volumes of the thoracic aorta. Results Seventy-one patients who underwent TEVAR for TBAD were reviewed. Indications for TEVAR included malperfusion, aneurysm, persistent pain, rupture, uncontrolled hypertension, and other. Mean follow-up was 14 months. In 26 (37%) patients, the proximal extent of the seal zone was without IMH, whereas 45 (63%) patients had proximal seal zone entirely in IMH. Proximal seal zone of 2-cm IMH-free aorta was achieved in only six (8.5%) patients. Review of arch anatomy revealed that to create a 2-cm landing zone of IMH-free aorta, 31 (43.7%) patients would have required coverage of all three arch branch vessels. Postoperatively, two patients developed image-proven RTADs requiring open repair, and one patient had sudden death. All three of these patients had TEVAR with the proximal seal zone entirely in IMH. No RTADs occurred in patients whose proximal seal zone involved healthy aortic segment. At 24 months, overall survival was 93% and freedom from aorta-related mortality was 97.4%. Complete thoracic false lumen thrombosis was seen in 46% of patients. Aortic remodeling, such as true lumen expansion, false lumen regression, and false lumen thrombosis, was similar in both groups of patients. Conclusions Whereas achieving 2 cm of IMH-free proximal seal zone during TEVAR for TBAD would often require extensive arch branch coverage, failure to achieve any IMH-free proximal seal zone may be associated with higher incidence of RTAD. The length and quality of the proximal seal zone did not affect the subsequent aortic remodeling after TEVAR.
One-year continuation of copper or levonorgestrel intrauterine devices initiated at the time of emergency contraception

Abstract Objective(s) This study compares 1-year intrauterine device (IUD) continuation among women presenting for emergency contraception (EC) and initiating the copper (Cu T380A) IUD or the levonorgestrel (LNG) 52 mg IUD plus 1.5 mg oral LNG. Study design This cohort study enrolled 188 women who presented at a single family planning clinic in Utah between June 2013 and September 2014 and selected either the Cu T380A IUD or LNG 52 mg IUD plus oral LNG for EC. Trained personnel followed participants by phone, text or e-mail for 12 months or until discontinuation occurred. We assessed reasons for discontinuation and used Cox proportional hazard models, Kaplan–Meier estimates and log-rank tests to assess differences in continuation rates between IUDs. Results One hundred seventy-six women received IUDs; 66 (37%) chose the Cu T380A IUD and 110 (63%) chose the LNG 52 mg IUD plus oral LNG. At 1 year, we accounted for 147 (84%) participants, 33 (22%) had requested removals, 13 (9%) had an expulsion and declined reinsertion, 3 (2%) had a pregnancy with their IUD in place and 98 (67%) were still using their device. Continuation rates did not differ by IUD type; 60% of Cu T380A IUD users and 70% of LNG 52 mg IUD plus oral LNG users were still using their device at 12 months (adjusted hazard ratio 0.72, 95% confidence interval 0.40–1.3). Conclusion(s) Two-thirds of women who chose IUD placement at the EC clinical encounter continued use at 1 year. Women initiating Cu T380A IUD and LNG 52 mg IUD had similar 1-year continuation rates. These findings support same-day insertion of IUDs for women who are seeking EC and would like to use a highly effective reversible method going forward. Implications Providing IUD options for EC users presents an opportunity to increase availability of highly effective contraception.
Seasonal presence and potential influence of humpback whales on wintering Pacific herring populations in the Gulf of Alaska

Abstract This study addressed the lack of recovery of Pacific herring ( Clupea pallasii ) in Prince William Sound, Alaska, in relation to humpback whale ( Megaptera novaeangliae ) predation. As humpback whales rebound from commercial whaling, their ability to influence their prey through top-down forcing increases. We compared the potential influence of foraging humpback whales on three herring populations in the coastal Gulf of Alaska: Prince William Sound, Lynn Canal, and Sitka Sound (133–147°W; 57–61°N) from 2007 to 2009. Information on whale distribution, abundance, diet and the availability of herring as potential prey were used to correlate populations of overwintering herring and humpback whales. In Prince William Sound, the presence of whales coincided with the peak of herring abundance, allowing whales to maximize the consumption of overwintering herring prior to their southern migration. In Lynn Canal and Sitka Sound peak attendance of whales occurred earlier, in the fall, before the herring had completely moved into the areas, hence, there was less opportunity for predation to influence herring populations. North Pacific humpback whales in the Gulf of Alaska may be experiencing nutritional stress from reaching or exceeding carrying capacity, or oceanic conditions may have changed sufficiently to alter the prey base. Intraspecific competition for food may make it harder for humpback whales to meet their annual energetic needs. To meet their energetic demands whales may need to lengthen their time feeding in the northern latitudes or by skipping the annual migration altogether. If humpback whales extended their time feeding in Alaskan waters during the winter months, the result would likely be an increase in herring predation.
Intersecting Residential and Transportation CO2 Emissions: Metropolitan Climate Change Programs in the Age of Trump:

This article uses a series of fixed-ratio projections and scenarios to explore the potential for local residential energy conservation mandates and compact growth programs to reduce locally based CO2 emissions in eleven representative US metropolitan areas. Averaged across all eleven metros, residential energy conservation mandates could reduce residential CO2 emissions in 2030 by an average of 30 percent over and above 2010 levels. In terms of implementation, residential conservation standards were found to be goal-effective, cost-effective, scale-effective, and in the case of new construction standards, reasonably resistant to local political pushback. Local compact growth programs do not perform as well. If accompanied by aggressive efforts to get drivers out of their cars, compact growth programs could reduce auto-based 2030 CO2 emissions by as much as 25 percent over and above any emissions reductions attributable to higher fuel economy standards. Unaccompanied by modal diversion programs, the stand-...