cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Traversing the biological complexity in the hierarchy between genome and CAD endpoints in the population at large

An emerging challenge facing those who are concerned about the efficacy of public health programs is to understand how information from the DNA revolution might be used to improve our ability to predict the initiation, progression and severity of a common disease having a complex multifactorial etiology. In the course of research to evaluate the role of information about DNA, combinations of genome types and environmental exposures that predispose to disease will be identified. Such information is expected to be useful in efforts to identify individuals and families at higher risk of disease and to predict their responses to a proposed therapy. This paper begins with a discussion of the features of a realistic biological model for the study of a common multifactorial disease. We present evidence for the complexity in the relationship between genome type variation and variation in risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) and review the preliminary results of our studies to determine whether information about genome type variation can improve our ability to predict the distribution of CAD among individuals in the population at large. Such studies make it apparent that new analytical strategies are necessary to deal with the plethora of genome type information available for the evaluation of risk of a common disease like CAD. This shift in the research paradigm will build upon new strategies to understand the organization of natural systems that are coming from outside the mainstream of genetic research.
Dynamics of hybrid amoeba proteus containing zoochlorellae studied using fluorescence spectroscopy

The microinjection of organelles, plants, particles or chemical solutions into Amoeba proteus coupled with spectroscopic analysis and observed for a period of time provides a unique new model for cancer treatment and studies. The amoeba is a eukaryote having many similar features of mammalian cells. The amoeba biochemical functions monitored spectroscopically can provide time sequence in vivo information about many metabolic transitions and metabolic exchanges between cellar organelles and substances microinjected into the amoeba. It is possible to microinject algae, plant mitochondria, drugs or carcinogenic solutions followed by recording the native fluorescence spectra of these composites. This model can be used to spectroscopically monitor the pre-metabolic transitions in developing diseased cells such as a cancer. Knowing specific metabolic transitions could offer solutions to inhibit cancer or reverse it as well as many other diseases. In the present study a simple experiment was designed to test the feasibility of this unique new model by injecting algae and chloroplasts into amoeba. The nonradiative dynamics found from these composites are evidence in terms of the emission ratios between the intensities at 337nm and 419nm; and 684nm bands. There were reductions in the metabolic and photosynthetic processes in amoebae that were microinjected with chloroplasts and zoochlorellae as well of those amoebae that ingested the algae and chloroplasts. The changes in the intensity of the emissions of the peaks indicate that the zoochlorellae lived in the amoebae for ten days. Spectral changes in intensity under the UV and 633nm wavelength excitation are from the energy transfer of DNA and RNA, protein-bound chromophores and chlorophylls present in zoochlorellae undergoing photosynthesis. The fluorescence spectroscopic probes established the biochemical interplay between the cell organelles and the algae present in the cell cytoplasm. This hybrid state is indicative that a symbiotic system is in place and the results definitely support the potential use of this unique new model. This model many help in plant / animal and cancer processes.
Is second language lexical access prosodically constrained? Processing of word stress by French Canadian second language learners of English

The objectives of this study are (a) to determine if native speakers of Canadian French at different English proficiencies can use primary stress for recognizing English words and (b) to specify how the second language (L2) learners' (surface-level) knowledge of L2 stress placement influences their use of primary stress in L2 word recognition. Two experiments were conducted: a cross-modal word-identification task investigating (a) and a vocabulary production task investigating (b). The results show that several L2 learners can use primary stress for recognizing English words, but only the L2 learners with targetlike knowledge of stress placement can do so. The results also indicate that knowing where primary stress falls in English words is not sufficient for L2 learners to be able to use stress for L2 lexical access. This suggests that the problem that L2 word stress poses for many native speakers of (Canadian) French is at the level of lexical processing.
Hidden Variables, Joint Probability, and the Bell Inequalities

It is shown that the following statements about a quantum correlation experiment are mutually equivalent. (1) There is a deterministic hidden-variables model for the experiment. (2) There is a factorizable, stochastic model. (3) There is one joint distribution for all observables of the experiment, returning the experimental probabilities. (4) There are well-defined, compatible joint distributions for all pairs and triples of commuting and noncommuting observables. (5) The Bell inequalities hold.
Low- and high-dimension limits of a phase separation model

We study a simple zero-temperature model for phase separation of a binary alloy, in which nearest-neighbor interchange can occur if the fraction of AB pairs is not thereby increased. We present analytic results for the one-dimensional case and numerical results for the infinite dimensionality limit on a Cayley tree. In neither limit does the final fraction of AB pairs agree with the dimension-independent result found previously ind=3, 4, 5.
The stimulatory effect of nicotine on vagal pulmonary C-fibers in dogs.

Abstract Our recent studies suggested that a nicotine-induced stimulation of afferent vagal C-fibers in the lungs was involved in eliciting the immediate cardiorespiratory responses to inhaling cigarette smoke. To examine this possibility, afferent impulses were recorded from vagal pulmonary C-fibers in 16 anesthetized, open-chest and artificially ventilated dogs, before and after four separate doses of nicotine (2.5, 5, 10 and 20 μg/kg) were injected into the right atrium. The base-line activity did not change after injection of isotonic saline. In contrast, nicotine stimulated 24 of 29 C-fibers: a burst of discharge was evoked immediately (1–2 sec) after the injection and usually lasted 3–8 sec. The peak responses of these pulmonary C-fibers to nicotine injections showed a dose-dependent relationship. In 17 C-fibers tested, the responses evoked by right atrial injection of 10 μg/kg of nicotine were similar to those evoked by delivery into the lungs of a single breath of smoke generated from cigarette with a high-nicotine content. Based upon these results, we conclude that nicotine alone stimulates vagal pulmonary C-fibers in a dose-dependent manner and this stimulant action of nicotine may play a part in eliciting the immediate reflex cardiorespiratory responses to inhalation of cigarette smoke.
Global population genetic structure of the starlet anemone Nematostella vectensis : multiple introductions and implications for conservation policy

Distinguishing natural versus anthropogenic dispersal of organisms is essential for determining the native range of a species and implementing an effective conservation strategy. For cryptogenic species with limited historical records, molecular data can help to identify introductions. Nematostella vectensis is a small, burrowing estuarine sea anemone found in tidally restricted salt marsh pools. This species’ current distribution extends over three coast lines: (i) the Atlantic coast of North America from Nova Scotia to Georgia, (ii) the Pacific coast of North America from Washington to central California, and (iii) the southeast coast of England. The 1996 IUCN Red List designates N. vectensis as “vulnerable” in England. Amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) fingerprinting of 516 individuals from 24 N. vectensis populations throughout its range and mtDNA sequencing of a subsample of these individuals strongly suggest that anthropogenic dispersal has played a significant role in its current distribution. Certain western Atlantic populations of N. vectensis exhibit greater genetic similarity to Pacific populations or English populations than to other western Atlantic populations. At the same time, F-statistics showing high degrees of genetic differentiation between geographically proximate populations support a low likelihood for natural dispersal between salt marshes. Furthermore, the western Atlantic harbors greater genetic diversity than either England or the eastern Pacific. Collectively, these data clearly imply that N. vectensis is native to the Atlantic coast of North America and that populations along the Pacific coast and in England are cases of successful introduction.
Formal Rough Concept Analysis

In this paper, we present a novel approach for approximating concepts in the framework of formal concept analysis. Two main problems are investigated. The first, given a set A of objects (or a set B of features), we want to find a formal concept that approximates A (or B). The second, given a pair (A,B), where A is a set of objects and B is a set of features, the objective is to find formal concepts that approximate (A,B). The techniques developed in this paper use ideas from rough set theory. The approach we present is different and more general than existing approaches.
The cloud will change everything

Cloud computing is fast on its way to becoming a meaningless, oversold marketing slogan. In the midst of this hype, it is easy to overlook the fundamental change that is occurring. Computation, which used to be confined to the machine beside your desk, is increasingly centralized in vast shared facilities and at the same time liberated by battery-powered, wireless devices. Performance, security, and reliability are no longer problems that can be considered in isolation -- the wires and software connecting pieces offer more challenges and opportunities than components themselves. The eXtreme Computing Group (XCG) in Microsoft Research is taking a holistic approach to research in this area, by bring together researchers and developers with expertise in data center design, computer architecture, operating systems, computer security, programming language, mobile computation, and user interfaces to tackle the challenges of cloud computing.
Safety and efficacy of abatacept in eight rheumatoid arthritis patients with chronic hepatitis B.

Objective There are no previous studies on the use of abatacept in patients with chronic hepatitis B. This medical record review assessed the safety and efficacy of abatacept in 8 patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and chronic hepatitis B. Methods A retrospective analysis of patients with RA and chronic hepatitis B treated with abatacept was conducted. The primary outcome was the 4-variable Disease Activity Score in 28 joints using the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS28-ESR) at each followup visit along with markers of hepatitis B reactivation, including aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and hepatitis B viral load. Results A total of 47 visit data points were recorded. The mean ± SD duration of followup of patients receiving abatacept was 19.1 ± 12.7 months (range 3–33 months). Analysis was limited to 18 months of followup (included 77% of all visits [36 of 47]). Four patients were started on antiviral prophylaxis for hepatitis B with the initiation of abatacept, while 4 patients were not. Among the 4 patients who received antiviral prophylaxis, RA improved as evidenced by a statistically significant decrease in DAS28-ESR scores, and none had reactivation of hepatitis B. In the 4 patients without antiviral prophylaxis, there was no significant decrease in the DAS28-ESR scores and all 4 experienced reactivation of hepatitis B. There were no adverse events other than the hepatitis B reactivation. Conclusion Use of abatacept in patients with RA and chronic hepatitis B appears feasible if antiviral prophylaxis for hepatitis B is given concurrently. In these patients there were no non–hepatitis-related adverse effects. These data are encouraging and should lead to initiation of controlled trials of abatacept in hepatitis B.
Voltage-mode CMOS quaternary latch circuit

A new voltage-mode CMOS quaternary threshold logic latch circuit that has been realised in a standard 2 mu m p-well polysilicon-gate CMOS technology is presented. This circuit requantises quaternary logical voltages during a SETUP clock mode and latches the input value during the HOLD clock mode. Using a 5 V supply and logical voltage increments of 1.67 V, the quaternary latch has a worst-case total SETUP and HOLD time of approximately 5.7 ns. and best single-level transition total SETUP and HOLD time of approximately 0.9 ns. >
Speech-adaptive layered G.729 coder for loss concealments of real-time voice over IP

In this paper, we propose a speech-adaptive layered-coding (LC) scheme for the loss concealments of real-time CELP-coded speech transmitted over IP networks. Based on the ITU G.729 CS-ACELP codec operating at 8 Kbps, we design a loss-robust speech-adaptive codec at the same bit rate. Our scheme employs LC with redundant packetization in order to conceal losses and adapt to dynamic loss conditions characterized by the loss rate and the degree of burst, while maintaining an acceptable end-to-end delay. By protecting only the most important excitation parameters of each frame according to its speech type, our approach enables more efficient use of the bit budget. Our scheme delivers good-quality speech with a level of protection similar to full replication under medium loss rates, provides speech quality similar to the standard G.729 under very low loss rates, and outperforms both for low-to-medium loss rates.
Land cover classification of SSC image: unsupervised and supervised classification using ERDAS Imagine

NASA's Earth Sciences program is primarily focused on providing high quality data products to its science community. NASA also recognizes the need to increase its involvement with the general public, including areas of information and education. The main objective of this study is to classify the vegetation, man-made structures, and miscellaneous objects from the Satellite Image of NASA Stennis Space Center (SSC), Mississippi, and USA, by using the software, ERDAS Imagine 8.5. The ERDAS Image software performs the classification of an image for identification of terrestrial features based on the spectral analysis. For classification of the SSC image, the multispectral data was used for categorization of terrestrial objects, vegetation and shadows of the trees. These are two ways to classify pixels into different categories: Supervised and unsupervised. The classification of unsupervised data through ERDAS Image helped in identifying the terrestrial objects in the Study Image (SSC). The spectral pattern present within the data for each pixel was used as the numerical basis for categorization. The first analysis of the Image SSC involved the use of generalized Unsupervised Classification with 4 categories (Grass, Trees, Man-Made and Unknown). The result of the Unsupervised Image was used to create another image by using Supervised classification. The key difference between the two images is the ability of supervised image to decipher similar images, such as the roofs of the buildings and the shadows of the trees. Image stacking was conducted to create a fully classified image to separate shadow, grass, man-made, and trees. This poster will describe the procedures for viewing and measuring image, Computer-guided (Unsupervised) and User-guided (Supervised) Procedures will be described on image stacking to view each classification one at a time and stack them into a complete Classified Image. The application of unsupervised and supervised classification in agriculture will be discussed by giving examples of measurement of field reflectance of two classes of giant salvinia [green giant salvinia (green foliage) and senesced giant salvinia (mixture of green and brown foliage)], and invasive aquatic weed in Texas.
Measuring very low frequency sea level variations using satellite altimeter data

Abstract Very low frequency (VLF) sea level variations are an important indicator of global climate change, and their measurement can provide important information for determining the socioeconomic impact of sea level change on coastal land use. The prospect of measuring VLF sea level variations has been assessed using approximately 5 years of satellite altimeter data from the TOPEX/POSEIDON (T/P) mission, where synoptic mapping of the geocentric height of the ocean surface is routinely achieved with a point-to-point accuracy of better than 4 cm. The global mean sea level variations measured by T/P every 10 days have an RMS of 4 mm and a rate of change +3.1±1.3 mm/year, after accounting for an average instrument drift computed using the global tide gauge network by Mitchum (1998). A likely cause of the observed instrument drift is the microwave radiometer, which provides the water vapor delay correction, which results in a revised estimate of +2.5 mm/year if the error is assumed to be linearly related to the mean water vapor delay. Approximately half of this rise appears related to an increase in sea level that began in mid-1996, thus it is unlikely to be sustained over the long term. Estimates of sea level change over the major ocean basins reveal that the North Atlantic has risen over the T/P mission, and this is believed to be related to decadal changes in heat storage. Maps of the geographic variability of the observed sea level trends are currently dominated by ENSO variations, and thus the climate change signals cannot currently be isolated. These results suggest that T/P, when combined with tide gauge monitoring of the satellite instruments, is achieving the necessary accuracy to distinguish sea level rise caused by climate change from the natural `background' rate of sea level rise, although a longer time series is necessary to average out possible interannual and decadal variations. A longer time series will also reduce the errors in estimates of the altimeter calibration, providing an important constraint on any long-term instrument drift. Future research will focus on establishing a more realistic error budget for these measurements of global mean sea level, so that they can be put in the proper context with other observations of global climate change. In addition, the study of the spatial variability of the sea level rise signal will become increasingly important as a longer time series is collected.
Synthesis and characterization of iron-impregnated porous carbon spheres prepared by ultrasonic spray pyrolysis

Abstract Porous carbon microspheres impregnated with iron-based nanoparticles are prepared in a single step, continuous process using ultrasonic spray pyrolysis (USP). Precursor solutions containing a carbon source, an inorganic salt, and an iron salt are ultrasonically aerosolized and pyrolyzed. Solutions containing nitrate or chloride salts are examined. During pyrolysis, sucrose is dehydrated to carbon, and the metal salt is converted to crystalline or non-crystalline iron species, depending on processing conditions. The product’s porosity is generated from: (1) aromatization of carbon around an in situ template, (2) in situ gasification of isolated carbon, or (3) in situ chemical activation of the carbon precursor. Porous carbon spheres (0.5–3 μm diameter) containing well-dispersed iron oxide nanoparticles (4–90 nm diameter), referred to here as Fe–C, are prepared. Iron loadings between 1 and 35 wt.% are achieved while maintaining well-dispersed Fe nanoparticles with as-produced surface areas up to 800 m 2 /g. Post-pyrolysis heat and hydrogen treatments increase the surface area of the materials while reducing iron species. USP Fe–C materials may have useful catalytic applications due to their potential for high-loading of well-dispersed metal nanoparticles. Despite negligible surface Fe content, chromium reduction tests indicate that internal Fe sites are catalytically active.
UNIFORM: automatically generating consistent remote control user interfaces

A problem with many of today's appliance interfaces is that they are inconsistent. For example, the procedure for setting the time on alarm clocks and VCRs differs, even among different models made by the same manufacturer. Finding particular functions can also be a challenge, because appliances often organize their features differently. This paper presents a system, called Uniform, which approaches this problem by automatically generating remote control interfaces that take into account previous interfaces that the user has seen during the generation process. Uniform is able to automatically identify similarities between different devices and users may specify additional similarities. The similarity information allows the interface generator to use the same type of controls for similar functions, place similar functions so that they can be found with the same navigation steps, and create interfaces that have a similar visual appearance.
A Network Theorem

It is shown that any relation between any of the commonly used parameters of a linear passive network (of any complexity) with two pairs of terminals is the equivalent of some other equally true relation which, by a simple rule for symbol substitution, may be obtained from, but is not necessarily algebraically contained in, the original expression. This symbol substitution theorem applies not only to transducer parameters but also to those quantities which describe the action of the transducer with load, with one exception. Distinguishing between the theorem and the rule for symbol substitution included in it, the rule may be used arbitrarily in cases where the theorem does not apply. By such a process it is shown that there is a closer relationship between certain structures than has heretofore been known. As an incidental to bringing the so-called general circuit parameters under the theorem, these have been expressed in terms of other parameters in such a way that certain minor theorems roughly analogous to Thevenin's theorem result.
Calibration of Rent's rule models for three-dimensional integrated circuits

In this paper, we determine the accuracy of Rahman's interconnect prediction model for three-dimensional (3-D) integrated circuits. Utilizing this model, we calculate the wiring requirement for a set of benchmark standard-cell circuits. We then obtain placed and routed wirelength figures for these circuits using 3-D standard-cell placement and global-routing tools we have developed. We find that the Rahman model predicts wirelengths accurately (to within 20% of placement and of routing, on average), and suggest some areas for minor improvement to the model.
Forgiveness and college student drinking in southern Appalachia

Aims: Forgiveness, a motivationally and volitionally unique method of coping, has been argued to be relevant to addiction and recovery. However, little empirical evidence exists in support thereof.Methods: As such, cross-sectional associations between dimensions of forgiveness (Fetzer) and drinking (AUDIT) were examined among college students (n = 721; ♀ = 516; Mage = 23) from the rural southern Appalachian region of the United States.Results: Using multiple regression analyses and independent of demographic variables and religiousness, while no forgiveness dimension was predictive of drinking in the first place (yes/no), Feeling Forgiven by God predicted a decreased likelihood of problematic drinking (Non/OK drinking vs. problematic drinking). Further, among problematic drinkers (n = 126; ♀ = 75; Mage = 22), Feeling Forgiven by God predicted fewer alcohol-related problems and Forgiveness of Self predicted lower HALT scores, all with medium effect sizes. Forgiveness of Others was not associated with the a...
Oxytocin receptor mRNA expression in the ventromedial hypothalamus during the estrous cycle

Changes in OR mRNA expression in the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) in relation to the estrous cycle were measured by in situ hybridization with a rat oxytocin receptor (OR) probe. Binding studies have localized ORs to various brain regions, and have detected a high density of receptors in the VMH, a nucleus containing large numbers of estrogen responsive neurons. Previous studies in this lab have reported a significant increase in OR mRNA expression in the VMH in ovariectomized rats treated with estrogen. The present study was designed to determine whether changes in steroid hormone levels across the estrous cycle result in induction of OR mRNA expression. Autoradiographic studies revealed differences in OR mRNA expression in the rostral and caudal as well as medial and lateral aspects of the VMH. OR mRNA levels were highest in the caudal portion of the vIVMH on the afternoon (16:00 hr) of proestrus. The rostral region exhibited a high level of expression in the ventrolateral region of the VMH on the morning (9:00 hr) of proestrus and in the dorsomedial region of the VMH on the afternoon of proestrus. Little or no OR mRNA expression was evident in the rostral or caudal VMH on the morning or evening of diestrus. These results support previous findings which showed a regulation of OR binding by gonadal steroids and suggest that this may be due to altered expression of the OR gene. These effects suggest a possible role of ORs in the oxytocin stimulated release of luteinizing hormone.
Module placement for analog layout using the sequence-pair representation

This paper addresses the problem of device-level placement for analog layout. Different from most of the existing approaches employing basically simulated annealing optimization algorithms operating on flat Gellat-Jepsen spatial representations, we use a more recent topological representation called sequence-pair, which has the advantage of not being restricted to slicing floorplan topologies. In this paper, we explain how specific features essential to analog placement, such as the ability to deal with symmetry and device matching constraints, can be easily handled by employing the sequence-pair representation. Several analog examples substantiate the effectiveness of our placement tool, which is already in use in an industrial environment.
The Discrete Topology Optimization of Structures Using the Modified Quadrilateral Discretization Model

The modified quadrilateral discretization model is introduced for the discrete topology optimization of structures in this paper. The design domain is discretized into quadrilateral design cells. There is a certain location shift between two neighboring rows of quadrilateral design cells. This modified quadrilateral discretization model allows any two contiguous design cells to share an edge whether they are in the horizontal, vertical or diagonal direction. Point connection is eradicated. In the proposed discrete topology optimization method of structures, design variables are all binary and every design cell is either solid or void to prevent grey cell problem that is caused by intermediate material states. Local stress constraint is directly imposed on each analysis cell to make the optimized structure safe. The binary bit-array genetic algorithm is used to search for the optimal topology to circumvent the geometrical bias against the vertical design cells. No postprocessing is needed for topology uncertainty caused by point connection or grey cell. The presented discrete topology optimization procedure is illustrated by two topology optimization examples of structures.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
The National Emergency Medicine Fourth-year Student (M4) Examinations: Updates and Performance.

Abstract Background Version 1 (V1) of the National Emergency Medicine Fourth-year Student (EM M4) Examination was released in 2011 and revised along with release of V2 in 2012. Each examination contains 50 multiple-choice questions designed to assess knowledge in the EM M4 clerkship curriculum. Development and initial performance data were described previously. Objective To provide updated V1 performance data, describe development and revision of V2, and to compare performance between academic years and examination forms, and within academic years. Methods Examinations are administered at www.saemtests.org with ongoing performance data provided. After 1 year of use, nine questions on V2 were revised, five because of low discriminatory ability and four because of excessive difficulty. Revision or replacement was done in accordance with the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) Item Writing Guidelines. Mean scores were compared for V1 between academic years (i.e., July 2011−June 2012 vs. July 2012−June 2013), V2 compared with V1, and for each examination version for early and late test takers. Results V1 has been administered >10,000 times since its release, and the current form mean is 81.5% (SD 3.7). Average discriminatory value (rpb) is 0.204. V2 has been administered >1500 times, with a mean score of 78.4% (SD 4.4) and average rpb 0.253. V1 and V2 current means differ statistically. Scores from examinees completing V1 or V2 early vs. late in the academic year differ statistically. Conclusions Performance data for V1 remain stable after 2 years. Revisions of poorly performing questions improved question performance on V2. Questions with low rpb or low pdiff will continue to be revised annually. While examination forms differ statistically, the practical utility of the differences is not defined.
The transient combinator, higher-order strategies, and the distributed data problem

The distributed data problem is characterized by the desire to bring together semantically related data from syntactically unrelated portions of a term. A strategic combinator called transient and a strategic constant called skip are introduced in the context of a higher-order strategic framework. The notion of traversal is lifted to the higher order as well. The resulting framework allows the manipulation of data to be expressed directly in strategic terms. The impact of this dynamic approach to strategy creation is then explored for several instances of the distributed data problem. Problems considered include three strategic benchmarks as well as two transformations that arise within a class loader for the Java virtual machine.
A 16-bit, 125 MS/s, 385 mW, 78.7 dB SNR CMOS Pipeline ADC

A 16-bit 125 MS/s pipeline analog-to-digital converter (ADC) implemented in a 0.18 ?m CMOS process is presented in this paper. A SHA-less 4-bit front-end is used to achieve low power and minimize the size of the input sampling capacitance in order to ease drivability. The ADC includes foreground factory digital calibration to correct for capacitor mismatches and dithering that can be optionally enabled to improve small-signal linearity. This ADC achieves an SNR of 78.7 dB, an SNDR of 78.6 dB and an SFDR of 96 dB with a 30 MHz input signal, while maintaining an SNR > 76 dB and an SFDR > 85 dB up to 150 MHz input signals. Further, with dithering enabled the worst spur is <-98 dB for inputs below -4 dBFS at 100 MHz IF. The ADC consumes 385 mW from a 1.8 V supply.
Unexplained Anemia Predominates Despite an Intensive Evaluation in a Racially Diverse Cohort of Older Adults From a Referral Anemia Clinic

BACKGROUND To accurately determine the causes of anemia and proportion of unexplained anemia in a racially diverse cohort of older adults after a comprehensive and standardized evaluation. METHODS We evaluated results from a single-institutional university anemia clinic. Patients with anemia, defined as a hemoglobin less than 13.0 g/dL for men and less than 12.0 g/dL for women, underwent a prospective standardized history, physical examination, and laboratory measures, with additional studies including bone marrow examination as indicated. Empiric treatment trials were given for identified deficiencies. RESULTS One hundred and seventy-four primarily community-dwelling adults aged 65 years and older were evaluable. African Americans accounted for 69% of patients and whites were 27%. Anemia etiologies included iron deficiency anemia at 25.3%, anemia of chronic inflammation at 9.8%, and hematologic malignancy in 7.5%. Unexplained anemia in the elderly accounted for 43.7% and predominated in both African Americans and whites. The prevalence of iron deficiency anemia and hematologic malignancies did not differ by race. Unexplained anemia in the elderly showed a consistent phenotype composed of a hypoproliferative mild-to-moderate anemia with suppressed serum erythropoietin. Specifically, erythropoietin levels showed no correlation with hemoglobin concentration in unexplained anemia in the elderly (r = -.15, p = .19) as opposed to iron deficiency anemia (r = -.63, p < .0001). CONCLUSIONS In summary, an intensive hematologic evaluation reveals a wide number of anemia etiologies among older adults, including 7.5% with hematologic malignancies; nevertheless, unexplained anemia in the elderly prevails as the most common category in whites and African Americans.
A Mutation in the STN1 Gene Triggers an Alternative Lengthening of Telomere-Like Runaway Recombinational Telomere Elongation and Rapid Deletion in Yeast

Some human cancer cells achieve immortalization by using a recombinational mechanism termed ALT (alternative lengthening of telomeres). A characteristic feature of ALT cells is the presence of extremely long and heterogeneous telomeres. The molecular mechanism triggering and maintaining this pathway is currently unknown. In Kluyveromyces lactis, we have identified a novel allele of the STN1 gene that produces a runaway ALT-like telomeric phenotype by recombination despite the presence of an active telomerase pathway. Additionally, stn1-M1 cells are synthetically lethal in combination with rad52 and display chronic growth and telomere capping defects including extensive 3' single-stranded telomere DNA and highly elevated subtelomere gene conversion. Strikingly, stn1-M1 cells undergo a very high rate of telomere rapid deletion (TRD) upon reintroduction of STN1. Our results suggest that the protein encoded by STN1, which protects the terminal 3' telomere DNA, can regulate both ALT and TRD.
REVEALING TIME SERIES INTERRELATIONSHIPS

Box and Jenkins [3] have specified a procedure for the development of a “transfer function model,” a model which expresses the interrelationships between two time series. Involving the iterative repetition of identification, estimation, and checking stages, this procedure is comparable to their procedure for the development of an autoregressive-intergrated-moving average model for a single time series. The transfer function model development procedure has not been widely applied due to the absence of explanations understandable to the non-statistician and reasonably priced computer algorithms. The intent of this paper is to provide the non-statistician with an explanation of the identification stage of the Box-Jenkins transfer function model development procedure. An extensive class of possible models is logically developed. The identification stage is specified step-by-step and is illustrated by three pairs of generated time series analyzed using computer algorithms written by the author. The paper presumes a general knowledge of the Box-Jenkins identification procedure for single series models.
The Resilience of Dependency Effects in Explaining Income Inequality in the Global Economy: A Cross National Analysis, 1975-1995

The contemporary era is one of both accelerated economic globalization and rising inequality. There is an increasing awareness among both academic scholars and development professionals that globalization puts certain populations at risk. However, there has been inadequate theoretical analysis and a lack of up to date empirical studies that explain just how contemporary globalization a?ects inequality and the well being of individuals. This study explores the conditions under which TNC penetration and other globalization processes in?uence change in domestic income distribution. Its aim is to investigate whether theoretical models that have proven successful in explaining di?erences in income inequality cross-sectionally also allow for an understanding of the dynamics of income distribution during the 1980s and early 1990s, an era characterized by a dramatic acceleration of globalization. We present an analysis of change in national income distribution using linear regression models with a panel design. This study suggests that dependence on foreign investment as a development strategy, especially compared to domestic and human capital investment, may be misguided for nations concerned with equality. Net of other factors, foreign investment dependence bene?ts the elite segments of the income-earning population over the poorer eighty percent. Our analysis provides evidence of a shift in capital/labor relations brought about by globalization that has signi? cantly contributed to the rise in income inequality seen throughout the world.
Hyperactivated mTOR and JAK2/STAT3 Pathways: Molecular Drivers and Potential Therapeutic Targets of Inflammatory and Invasive Ductal Breast Cancers After Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy

Abstract Introduction Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is an aggressive and rare cancer with a poor prognosis and a need for novel targeted therapeutic strategies. Preclinical IBC data showed strong activation of the phosphatidylinositide-3-kinase/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathways, and expression of inflammatory cytokines and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Patients and Methods Archival tumor tissue from 3 disease types (IBC treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy [NAC], n = 45; invasive ductal carcinoma [IDC] treated with NAC [n = 24; ‘treated IDC'; and untreated IDC [n = 27; ‘untreated IDC']) was analyzed for the expression of biomarkers phospho-S6 (pS6) (mTOR), phospho-JAK2 (pJAK2), pSTAT3, interleukin (IL)-6, CD68 (monocytes, macrophages), and CD163 (TAMs). Surrounding nontumor tissue was also analyzed. Results Biomarker levels and surrogate activity according to site-specific phosphorylation were shown in the tumor tissue of all 3 disease types but were greatest in IBC and treated IDC and least in untreated IDC for pS6, pJAK2, pSTAT3, and IL-6. Of 37 IBC patients with complete biomarker data available, 100% were pS6-positive and 95% were pJAK2-positive. In nontumor tissue, biomarker levels were observed in all groups but were generally greatest in untreated IDC and least in IBC, except for JAK2 . Conclusion IBC and treated IDC display similar levels of mTOR and JAK2 biomarker activation, which suggests a potential mechanism of resistance after NAC. Biomarker levels in surrounding nontumor tissue suggested that the stroma might be activated by chemotherapy and resembles the oncogenic tumor-promoting environment. Activation of pS6 and pJAK2 in IBC might support dual targeting of the mTOR and JAK/STAT pathways, and the need for prospective studies to investigate combined targeted therapies in IBC.
BREEDING BIRD TERRITORY PLACEMENT IN RIPARIAN WET MEADOWS IN RELATION TO INVASIVE REED CANARY GRASS, PHALARIS ARUNDINACEA

Invasive plants are a growing concern worldwide for conservation of native habitats. In endangered wet meadow habitat in the Upper Midwestern United States, reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea) is a recognized problem and its prevalence is more widespread than the better-known invasive wetland plant purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria). Although resource managers are concerned about the effect of reed canary grass on birds, this is the first study to report how common wet meadow birds use habitat in relation to reed canary grass cover and dominance. We examined three response variables: territory placement, size of territories, and numbers of territories per plot in relation to cover of reed canary grass. Territory locations for Sedge Wren (Cistothorus platensis) and Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodid) were positively associated with reed canary grass cover, while those for Common Yellowthroat (Geothlypis trichas) were not. Only Swamp Sparrow (M. georgiana) territory locations were negatively associated with reed canary grass cover and dominance (which indicated a tendency to place territories where there was no reed canary grass or where many plant species occurred with reed canary grass). Swamp Sparrow territories were positively associated with vegetation height density and litter depth. Common Yellowthroat territories were positively associated with vegetation height density and shrub cover. Song Sparrow territories were negatively associated with litter depth. Reed canary grass cover within territories was not associated with territory size for any of these four bird species. Territory density per plot was not associated with average reed canary grass cover of plots for all four species. Sedge Wrens and Song Sparrows may not respond negatively to reed canary grass because this grass is native to wet meadows of North America, and in the study area it merely replaces other tall lush plants. Avoidance of reed canary grass by Swamp Sparrows may be mediated through their preference for wet areas where reed canary grass typically does not dominate.
Individuals with accelerated knee osteoarthritis have greater pain and functional impairments than individuals with common knee osteoarthritis: Data from the osteoarthritis

s / Osteoarthritis and Cartilage 23 (2015) A82eA416 A326 520 INDIVIDUALS WITH ACCELERATED KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS HAVE GREATER PAIN AND FUNCTIONAL IMPAIRMENTS THAN INDIVIDUALS WITH COMMON KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: DATA FROM THE OSTEOARTHRITIS J.B. Driban y, L.L. Price yz, C.B. Eaton x, B. Lu k, G.H. Lo ¶#, K.L. Lapane yy, T.E. McAlindon y. y Tufts Med. Ctr., Boston, MA, USA; z The Inst. for Clinical Res. and Hlth. Policy Studies, Tufts Med. Ctr., Tufts Clinical and Translational Sci. Inst., Tufts Univ., Boston, MA, USA; xCtr. for Primary Care and Prevention, Alpert Med. Sch. of Brown Univ., Pawtucket, RI, USA; kBrigham & Women's Hosp. and Harvard Med. Sch., Boston, MA, USA; Med. Care Line and Res. Care Line, Houston Hlth.Services Res. and Development, Houston, TX, USA; # Section of Immunology, Allergy, and Rheumatology, Baylor Coll. of Med., Houston, TX, USA; yyDept. of Quantitative Hlth.Sci., Univ. of Massachusetts Med. Sch., Worcester, MA,
Calcium deposition in the myxomycete Didymium squamulosum.

The deposition of calcium carbonate crystals by the myxomycete Didymium squamulosum during sporulation has been related to mitochondrial electron-dense granules which were determined, by X-ray micr...
Control and optimization algorithms for air transportation systems

Abstract Modern air transportation systems are complex cyber-physical networks that are critical to global travel and commerce. As the demand for air transport has grown, so have congestion, flight delays, and the resultant environmental impacts. With further growth in demand expected, we need new control techniques, and perhaps even redesign of some parts of the system, in order to prevent cascading delays and excessive pollution. In this survey, we consider examples of how we can develop control and optimization algorithms for air transportation systems that are grounded in real-world data, implement them, and test them in both simulations and in field trials. These algorithms help us address several challenges, including resource allocation with multiple stakeholders, robustness in the presence of operational uncertainties, and developing decision-support tools that account for human operators and their behavior.
STUDY OF RECYCLABLE MICRO-FOAM DRILLING FLUID

A new kind of low-density system, which is called recyclable micro-foam drilligfluid, has been put forward recently both domestic and overseas. It has overcome most disadvantages of conventional foam system such as bad pumping and one-off use that may lead to lots of waste of agents and serious environmental pollution. Based on the theoretic analysis of formations and stability of the micro-foam system, a physical chemistry model has been put forward in this paper. By a lot of experiments on the basis of the formation, stability and application conditions, a system that can accord with the hypothetical conditions has been obtained finally. The system has many advantages such as high stability, adjustable density (range from 0.5～0.9-g/cm 3), low filtrate and good ability to resist salt, calcium and temperature.
Communication efficient coresets for empirical loss minimization

In this paper, we study the problem of empirical loss minimization with l2-regularization in distributed settings with significant communication cost. Stochastic gradient descent (SGD) and its variants are popular techniques for solving these problems in large-scale applications. However, the communication cost of these techniques is usually high, thus leading to considerable performance degradation. We introduce a novel approach to reduce the communication cost while retaining good convergence properties. The key to our approach is the construction of a small summary of the data, called coreset, at each iteration and solve an easy optimization problem based on the coreset. We present a general framework for analyzing coreset-based optimization and provide interesting insights into existing algorithms from this perspective. We then propose a new coreset construction and provide its convergence analysis for a wide class of problems that include logistic regression and support vector machines. Preliminary experiments show encouraging results for our algorithm on real-world datasets.
Aminoglutethimide Medical Adrenalectomy for Advanced Prostatic Carcinoma

Abstract Complete adrenal suppression with aminoglutethimide has been accomplished in 7 patients with progressive stage D carcinoma of the prostate who had become refractory to orchiectomy and the administration of exogenous estrogens. A favorable response was noted in 3 patients. These preliminary results indicate that this agent may be as useful as surgical adrenalectomy in the treatment of progressive prostatic carcinoma. A brief discussion of the pharmacology of this agent, its mode of administration and the side effects are presented.
RNA-seq analysis does not substantiate a causative link between herpes virus infection and IPF

There are a number of publications showing an association between herpes virus infection and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). These reports use immunohistochemistry and/or PCR, which are susceptible to specificity artifacts. Thus, we investigated the possible association between IPF and viral RNA expression using next-generation sequencing, which has the potential to provide both a high degree of sensitivity as well as specificity. We quantified viral RNA expression for 740 viruses in 21 IPF patient lung biopsy samples and 17 age-matched controls. Our RNA-seq results were confirmed using Real-time RT-PCR for select viruses (EBV, herpes Saimiri and HERV-k). HERV-k expression was examined because of reports indicating that it is elevated in other fibrotic diseases, and because conceptually HERV-k could promote fibrogenesis by inducing cellular stress. Moreover, HERV-k expression is reported to be enhanced in response to herpes virus infection. Although we identified sporadic low-level evidence of viral infections in our lung tissue samples, we did not find statistical difference for expression of any virus, including HERV-k, between IPF and control lungs. To our knowledge, this is the first report that employs RNA-seq to assess whether or not viral infections are linked to IPF. Our results do not address the role of viral infection in the so-called acute exacerbation of IPF, however, they clearly do not support a causative connection between herpes virus infection and IPF.