cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The dark side of birds: melanism—facts and fiction

Summary. Melanism is generally defined as an increase of dark pigment in the plumage, resulting in a blackish appearance. Furthermore, melanism is often associated with mutations of one gene that encodes the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R), a protein involved in regulating melanin pigmentation. However, there is often no increase of pigment and melanism does not necessarily involve dark pigment alone. Also, many different mutations in many different genes promote melanism, which may explain why it is the commonest colour morph in birds. In the past, melanistic birds were sometimes mistakenly named as new species. Ironically, it now appears that melanistic birds do indeed differ from their normalcoloured conspecifics in more than just colour.
Cohort Differences in Mothers' Perceptions of Neighborhood Quality, Child Well-being, and Parental Strain, 1976-2002

Objective To examine differences in mothers' subjective experiences of child-rearing between two cohorts who lived in different eras of sociodemographic contexts and parenting norms. Background A resource perspective suggests that child-rearing experiences should be easier when mothers have a higher standard of living, higher education, and fewer children, as was the case for mothers in the 2000s compared with mothers in the 1970s. However, a cultural perspective indicates that the intensive mothering ideology, emerged in the 1980s, increased mothers' anxiety and stress over their children's safety and proper development. Method Data from two national samples of mothers with children between 6 and 12 years of age in the United States collected in 1976 and 2002 (N = 2,465) were analyzed using ordinary least squares regression models. Results Mothers in 2002 reported better neighborhood quality and better health of their children than mothers in 1976, even after sociodemographic advantages of mothers in 2002 relative to 1976 were taken into account. Despite these sociodemographic advantages of mothers in 2002, there was little difference in mothers' reports of their children's behavioral adjustments between the two cohorts. Furthermore, albeit among Whites only, mothers in 2002 reported more parental strain than did mothers in 1976. There was little variation in mothers' perceptions by socioeconomic status (as measured by a college degree). Conclusion Our results support the idea of a stressed-moms phenomenon in the contemporary United States, particularly among Whites. Implications Experts who advise parent education policy and programs should take into account the psychological burden of the current neoliberal emphasis on personal responsibility for raising children on individual mothers.
The Products of Pragmatism

Critics of the pragmatists (and of the pragmaticists, in case there has been more than one of those) seem never to have tired of accusing them of making action an end in itself. Bertrand Russell misread them in this way, accusing Dewey of subordinating knowledge to action. Russell charged pragmatism with saying “that the only essential result of successful inquiry is successful action” (Russell 1969:304). He was later joined in this mistake by members of the Frankfurt School, including Max Horkheimer and Theodor Adorno (Hork-heimer 1974:42ff).1
Principles of Economic Policy in the Common Market

The chapter analyzes economic policy in the European Community against the background of recent, often heated discussions about the Community’s future. Principles of policy-making are used from both the traditional theory of economic policy and the German concept of a social market economy. Considering issues of the Community’s internal and external economic policies, we argue in favor of a rational approach to economic policy as opposed to policy-making merely based on an alleged dichotomy between government and market.
Lignite‐derived humic substances modulate pepper and soil‐biota growth under water deficit stress

Organic matter‐derived soil amendments containing humic substances (HS) have a functional role to improve plant growth and soil quality, but their response to water deficit stress is less reported, particularly in vegetable crops. This study assessed the impact of lignite‐derived HS on biota growth and evaluated their potential mitigative effects under water deficit stress in growth chamber and greenhouse environments. Bell pepper (Capsicum annuum L. cv. Revolution) plants were grown in sandy and clay soil previously mixed with lignite‐derived HS and subjected to four irrigation levels (20%, 40%, 60%, and 80%) based on soil water‐holding capacity. Plant growth traits, soil chemical properties, and microbial populations were measured and analyzed. HS increased plant root development and soil bacteria population in moderate and no stress conditions (60%, 80%). Physiologically, HS rapidly decreased leaf stomatal conductance and transpiration after imposing severe or mild stress (20%, 40%). The results indicate that HS transiently ameliorated plants exposed to water stress by reducing moisture loss. In addition, due to their capacity to improve plant root growth, soil nutrient cycling and microbial activity, application of HS might have long‐term benefits in agricultural systems.
IDENTIFIABILITY OF SYSTEMS WITH MODELING ERROR — A NEW FORMULATION

Keywords . Identification, identifiability, parameter estimation, linear systems, modeling, structural equivalence.
A Pedagogical Framework for Manufacturing Process Design

Abstract In recent years, federal economists have argued that manufacturing is a vital part of the U.S. economy, providing a disproportionate share of engineering jobs, research and patents. At the center of these arguments is an understanding that manufacturing research and development is important to the innovation and competitiveness of manufacturing firms. As a result, federal agencies have made significant investments in public-private partnerships stimulating industry-directed research and development on university campuses. At the same time, state and federal agencies have increasingly encouraged the commercialization of university research for regional economic development. Combined, these investments have increased the amount of manufacturing engineering activity at U.S. universities providing opportunities to advance manufacturing engineering practice. This paper discusses efforts at Oregon State University to teach manufacturing process design based on twenty years of findings from efforts to translate microchannel process technology into the marketplace.
Wide-Field In Vivo Confocal Microscopy of Meibomian Gland Acini and Rete Ridges in the Eyelid Margin.

Purpose In vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) has been widely used to evaluate changes in the meibomian glands (MGs) in response to age and disease. This study examined the structures described as MGs using wide-field IVCM and laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) in situ and characterized their spatial distribution and localization relevant to the eyelid margin. Methods IVCM was performed on 30 subjects aged 18 to 38 to visualize structures in the eyelid margin. Size, shape, and distribution characteristics were measured, and individual frames were montaged into wide-field images. Structures observed on IVCM were then visualized using LSCM of whole-mount and cryosectioned cadaver eyelids stained with Nile red, mucin-1 (MUC1), laminin-5, and 4',6-diamidine-2'-phenylindole dihydrochloride. Results The size, distribution, and staining patterns of the reflective structures seen on IVCM did not correspond to the MGs in cadaver eyelids. Instead, staining profiles indicated that these structures corresponded to the rete ridges present at the dermal-epidermal junction. Wide-field imaging showed a densely populated field of rete ridges with distinct size and shape characteristics depending on their location relative to the meibomian orifices. A distal shift of the mucocutaneous junction (MCJ) was evident in some eyelids. Conclusions IVCM is unable to visualize MGs in the human eyelid margin due to light attenuation at that tissue depth. LSCM confirms that these structures are rete ridges located at the dermal-epidermal junction. Alterations in the structure of the dermal-epidermal junction within the eyelid margin indicate a shifting of the MCJ and may impact tear film dynamics.
Variational Theorems and Stepwise Mean Convergence of Approximations to Self-Adjoint Linear Systems by General Finite Sums

In this paper the approximate solution of a self-adjoint linear differential system by a non-orthogonal finite sum is examined in its most general form. In obtaining the coefficients, the variational concept is based on minimizing the “energy norm” of the error function of the approximation. This systematic treatment is shown to encompass the usual Rayleigh-Ritz and Galerkin methods which arise in certain boundary value problems with homogeneous boundary conditions and the Trefftz method which arises in certain boundary value problems with homogeneous differential equations. Using theorems proviously proven by Ho, it is then shown that the approximation is improved in the “mean” when an additional term is introduced (“stepwise mean convergence”). Conditions on the uniqueness of the solution and the proper prescription of the boundary conditions follow directly from the form of the equation describing the selfadjoint operation. The method is exemplified in the paper by application to the problem in antiplane elastic shear deformation of a finite crack. A surprisingly elegant closed form solution is obtained.
Extensions to Multi-stages and Multi-time Scales

This monograph has presented the recent research results of the authors on design of multistage and multi-time-scale feedback controllers for linear, continuous- and discrete-time, time-invariant, linear dynamic systems. This research is particularly important for large-scale dynamic systems composed of several subsystems and/or large linear systems operating in several time scales. In addition, it is important for higher-order linear dynamic systems whose design of feedback controllers can be facilitated by artificially introducing subsystems of much lower order than the original system.
Intra-Arterial Dantrolene for Refractory Cerebral Vasospasm in Patients with Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage.

Background Dantrolene has a safe side-effect profile and a mechanism of action that makes it attractive as an option for treatment of cerebral vasospasm. The authors report 2 cases of refractory cerebral vasospasm secondary to aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage that were successfully treated with intra-arterial (IA) dantrolene. Case Description Two patients, a 63-year-old woman and 36-year-old woman, developed severe vasospasm refractory to IA vasodilators after rupture of anterior communicating artery aneurysms. IA dantrolene was injected in doses of 15–30 mg in the affected distributions and mean arterial pressure, intracranial pressure, and heart rate were monitored. There was immediate improvement in lumen diameter of the affected vessels following dantrolene injection. No significant differences in mean arterial pressure or intracranial pressure before and after IA dantrolene were observed. Both patients demonstrated clinical improvement within 24 hours without any further deterioration during the rest of their admission. Follow-up angiography 48 hours after IA dantrolene treatment demonstrated continued resolution of cerebral vasospasm. Conclusions This evidence suggests IA dantrolene as a safe and effective novel alternative for the treatment of cerebral vasospasm.
Unique Considerations for Special Populations in Episodic Migraine: the Underserved

People with migraine disease face many challenges, and these challenges can be magnified when someone is part of an “underserved” population. We set out to examine various categories of “underserved” populations, consider the unique challenges faced by these groups, and discuss mechanisms to mitigate these challenges as much as possible. Very little research has been performed to specifically evaluate underserved populations related to people with migraine disease. Recent research has shown the overall limitations of limited numbers of physicians with specialty training in headache disorders, and the socioeconomic implications of migraine disease have long been reported. Even the definition of “underserved” is not completely clear. We undertook to define this concept in the setting of migraine disease, breaking into different categories, including financial, geographic, and cultural/racial. Each underserved population has both shared and unique challenges, and in reality, given the paucity of medical expertise throughout the United States, one could make the argument that nearly all people with migraine disease are at risk for being underserved. In the future, epidemiologic as well as therapeutic research should incorporate analyses of these and any other underserved population to improve the application of study results across broad and varied populations whose commonality, in many cases, ends with sharing the same disease.
Critiquing the Need to Eliminate Remediation: Lessons from San Francisco State.

Ever since the California State University (CSU) first authorized remedial instruction in the mid-1970s, it has been waging an expensive, but losing, battle to eliminate the need for it. In the 1980s, students deemed to be in need of remediation (as determined by a system-wide English Placement Test) numbered somewhere around 42% of the incoming class. This, in turn, caused the California Postsecondary Education Commission to declare that remediation was careening out of control at California’s colleges and to call on the California State University and the University of California to prepare comprehensive plans for reducing the amount of remedial instruction at their institutions (California Postsecondary Education Commission, Promises to Keep). The CSU Board of Trustees responded with a set of initiatives aimed chiefly at high schools to reduce the number of incoming first-year students who would need remediation to no more than 12% by 1990. Among other things, the CSU added four years of high school English to its admissions
Conditional Activation of NF‐κB Inducing Kinase (NIK) in the Osteolineage Enhances both Basal and Loading‐Induced Bone Formation

Studies from global loss-of-function mutants suggest that alternative NF-κB downstream of NF-κB inducing kinase (NIK) is a cell-intrinsic negative regulator of osteogenesis. However, the interpretation of the osteoblast and/or osteocyte contribution to the bone phenotype is complicated by simultaneous osteoclast defects in these models. Therefore, we turned to a transgenic mouse model to investigate the direct role of NIK in the osteolineage. Osx-Cre;NT3 animals (NT3-Cre +), which bear a constitutively active NIK allele (NT3) driven by Osx-Cre, were compared with their Cre-negative, Control (Ctrl) littermates. NT3-Cre + mice had elevated serum P1NP and CTX levels. Despite this high turnover state, µCT showed that constitutive activation of NIK resulted in a net increase in basal bone mass in both cortical and cancellous compartments. Furthermore, NT3-Cre + mice exhibited a greater anabolic response following mechanical loading compared with controls. We next performed RNA-Seq on nonloaded and loaded tibias to elucidate possible mechanisms underlying the increased bone anabolism seen in NT3-Cre + mice. Hierarchical clustering revealed two main transcriptional programs: one loading-responsive and the other NT3 transgene-driven. Gene ontology (GO) analysis indicated a distinct upregulation of receptor, kinase, and growth factor activities including Wnts, as well as a calcium-response signature in NT3-Cre + limbs. The promoters of these GO-term associated genes, including many known to be bone-anabolic, were highly enriched for multiple κB recognition elements (κB-RE) relative to the background frequency in the genome. The loading response in NT3-Cre + mice substantially overlapped (>90%) with Ctrl. Surprisingly, control animals had 10-fold more DEGs in response to loading. However, most top DEGs shared between genotypes had a high incidence of multiple κB-RE in their promoters. Therefore, both transcriptional programs (loading-responsive and NT3 transgene-driven) are modulated by NF-κB. Our studies uncover a previously unrecognized role for NF-κB in the promotion of both basal and mechanically stimulated bone formation. © 2019 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
SAPH-ire TFx - A Recommendation-based Machine Learning Model Captures a Broad Feature Landscape Underlying Functional Post-Translational Modifications

Protein post-translational modifications (PTMs) are a rapidly expanding feature class of significant importance in cell biology. Due to a high burden of experimental proof, the number of functional PTMs in the eukaryotic proteome is currently underestimated. Furthermore, not all PTMs are functionally equivalent. Therefore, computational approaches that can confidently recommend the functional potential of experimental PTMs are essential. To address this challenge, we developed SAPH-ire TFx (https://saphire.biosci.gatech.edu/): a multi-feature neural network model and web resource optimized for recommending experimental PTMs with high potential for biological impact. The model is rigorously benchmarked against independent datasets and alternative models, exhibiting unmatched performance in the recall of known functional PTM sites and the recommendation of PTMs that were later confirmed experimentally. An analysis of feature contributions to model outcome provides further insight on the need for multiple rather than single features to capture the breadth of functional data in the public domain.
Asymptotic behavior of the eigenvalues of certain integral equations

then To is just convolution by k. However we shall not insist that this be the case. Let V(x) be a bounded non-negative function with bounded support and denote by MVI/2 the operator on L2(Ed) which is multiplication by V(x)1/2. We shall denote by 21 > A2 _> ? the positive eigenvalues of the positive semi-definite operator MVl/2ToMvI/2. In case K is the Fourier transform of an L1 function k then this is just the integral operator in equation (1).The result (Theorem II) is as
Mapping gentrification and displacement pressure: An exploration of four distinct methodologies:

As housing costs continue to increase across many cities in North America and Europe, local governments face pressure to understand how housing’s rising cost is changing neighbourhoods and to ensur...
Brachial plexus birth injuries and the association between pre-procedure and post-procedure pediatric outcomes data collection instrument scores and narakas classification.

BACKGROUND The brachial plexus is a network of nerves exiting the spinal cord through the fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth cervical nerves (C5-C8) as well as the first thoracic nerve (T1) to conduct signals for motion and sensation throughout the arm. Brachial plexus birth injuries (BPBI) occur in 1.5 per 1,000 live births. The purpose of this study was to determine the perceived change in musculoskeletal health-related quality of life of brachial plexus patients utilizing the Pediatric Outcomes Data Collection Instrument (PODCI). PODCI scores were examined along with the patient's procedure history (surgical or Botulinum Toxin), extent of involvement and demographics. PATIENTS A total of 81 patients from two to eighteen years of age from nine different states met the inclusion criteria of having a pre-procedure and post-procedure PODCI score along with a Narakas score from 2002-2017. These patients were seen at the Brachial Plexus Center, which is an interdisciplinary clinic at a large academic medical centerMETHODS: This retrospective study utilized PODCI data collected annually during their regular brachial plexus clinic visits. Upper extremity (UE) and global functioning (GFx) scores pre- and post-procedure were stratified by Narakas Classification. Data were analyzed using paired t-test and ANOVA testing. RESULTS Patients with a Brachial Plexus Birth Injury (BPBI) had lower PODCI scores for UE and GFx when compared with the pediatric normative scores for age-matched healthy children. Scores in both UE and GFx domains were higher after procedure in the groups of Narakas I and IV. There was significant correlation between UE and GFx scores and documented first PODCI score (2 years of age) and age at intervention (5 years of age). CONCLUSION Procedures increased the perceived quality of life for children with a BPBI and increased their overall PODCI scores for both UE and GFx.
FBNTI, a DOR-Selective Antagonist That Allosterically Activates MOR within a MOR–DOR Heteromer

This report describes the unique pharmacological profile of FBNTI, a potent DOR antagonist that acts as a MOR agonist via an allosteric mechanism. Binding of FBNTI to opioid receptors expressed in HEK 293 cells revealed a 190-fold greater affinity for DOR (Ki = 0.84 nM) over MOR (Ki = 160 nM). In mice, intrathecal FBNTI produced potent antinociception (ED50 = 46.9 pmol/mouse), which was antagonized by selective MOR antagonists (CTOP, β-FNA). Autoantagonism of the MOR agonism by FBNTI was observed above the ED75 dose, suggesting antagonism of activated MOR. That FBNTI is devoid of agonism in DOR knockout mice is consistent with allosteric activation of the MOR protomer via FBNTI bound to within a MOR-DOR heteromer. This proposed mechanism is supported by calcium mobilization assays, which indicate that FBNTI selectively activates the MOR-DOR heteromer and functionally antagonizes the MOR protomer at >ED75. The unprecedented mode of MOR activation by FBNTI may be responsible for the lack of tolerance after intrathecal (i.t.) administration. FBNTI was highly effective upon topical administration to the ipsolateral hind paw in the Hargreaves assay (EC50 = 0.17 ± 0.08 μM) and without significant contralateral activity, suggesting a lack of systemic exposure.
Warum Computer kein Erleben haben

Wenn nicht gerade eine Katastrophe unseren Planeten in Dusternis versinken lasst, wird die Hightech-Industrie innerhalb von Jahrzehnten Maschinen schaffen, die uber Intelligenz und Verhalten auf menschenahnlichem Niveau verfugen; diese werden in der Lage sein, zu sprechen, nachzudenken und in den Bereichen Wirtschaft, Politik und – unvermeidbar – Kriegsfuhrung hoch koordinierte Handlungen durchzufuhren. Die Geburt der wahren kunstlichen Intelligenz wird die Zukunft der Menschheit zutiefst beeinflussen, den Aspekt eingeschlossen, ob sie denn uberhaupt eine hat.
Recombinant SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Mediates Glycolytic and Inflammatory Activation in Human Monocytes

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in part through cytokine storm Metabolic reprogramming in immune cells mediates inflammation, and recent evidence suggests SARS-CoV-2 activates glycolysis in monocytes to facilitate cytokine production In this study I investigated the ability of the spike protein (subunit 1) from SARS-CoV-2 to cause glycolytic reprogramming and inflammatory activation in isolated human monocytes Primary human monocytes were isolated from healthy young donors (N=4) by immunomagnetic negative selection and stimulated with recombinant SARS-CoV-2 spike protein subunit 1 (rS1) for 6 hr Glycolysis was monitored by assessing extracellular acidification using a Seahorse assay Supernatants and cell lysates were subsequently processed for gene and protein expression assays by qPCR and ELISA respectively Treatment of monocytes with rS1 at 10 nM and 30 nM led to significant upregulation of glycolysis, as well as a substantial increase in gene and protein expression of interleukin-6 Mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages did not display enhanced glycolysis when stimulated with rS1, suggesting a specific interaction of the protein with the ACE2 receptor, rather than a general inflammatory response caused by contamination with endotoxin or similar Glycolytic activation in monocytes in response to rS1 suggests that immunometabolic modulators, including common geroprotectors such as rapamycin and metformin, may have efficacy in treating COVID-19
Anna White: Lean Thinking at Acme Funding

Anna White, process engineer at Acme Funding (Acme), a mortgage-loan-processing company, is considering a redesign of the loan-closing process. She is evaluating a centralization/decentralization system called "pods," similar to manufacturing cells, as a process redesign. Data is given for the student to analyze the implications of this approach and suggest alternatives. Students must calculate utilizations and capacities of both the centralized and decentralized systems. They need to consider both costs and benefits in order to make a decision. Excerpt UVA-OM-1720 Mar. 11, 2021 Anna White: Lean Thinking at Acme Funding Anna White, an industrial and operations engineer with a master's degree from the University of Michigan, had begun her career at two Fortune 200 manufacturers, working in unionized production facilities as a Lean and change-management associate. While she enjoyed and valued the people she worked with and many of her experiences in these roles, one thing that she consistently found challenging about working in large, established companies with a long history of various change-management programs were the preconceptions many of the employees had about what to expect from her services. White reflected: Working in these environments helped me learn how to overcome other people's resistance to change mostly by taking the time to make personal connections and building trust. I was able to make some improvements here and there, but ultimately the culture was not a good fit for me. That's what led me to consider leaving manufacturing. A fellow Michigan alum introduced White to an executive at Acme Funding (Acme), thinking that the faster pace might be a welcome change. Acme had been experiencing rapid growth, and the executive team needed a process engineer. Five interviews later, the job was hers. . . .
Pinnacle Set Properties

Let pi = pi_1 pi_2 ... pi_n be a permutation in the symmetric group S_n written in one-line notation. The pinnacle set of pi, denoted Pin pi, is the set of all pi_i such that pi_{i-1} pi_{i+1}. This is an analogue of the well-studied peak set of pi where one considers values rather than positions. The pinnacle set was introduced by Davis, Nelson, Petersen, and Tenner who showed that it has many interesting properties. In particular, they proved that the number of subsets of [n] = {1, 2, ..., n} which can be the pinnacle set of some permutation is a binomial coefficient. Their proof involved a bijection with lattice paths and was somewhat involved. We give a simpler demonstration of this result which does not need lattice paths. Moreover, we show that our map and theirs are different descriptions of the same function. Davis et al. also studied the number of pinnacle sets with maximum m and cardinality d which they denoted by p(m,d). We show that these integers are ballot numbers and give two proofs of this fact: one using finite differences and one bijective. Diaz-Lopez, Harris, Huang, Insko, and Nilsen found a summation formula for calculating the number of permutations in S_n having a given pinnacle set. We derive a new expression for this number which is faster to calculate in many cases. We also show how this method can be adapted to find the number of orderings of a pinnacle set which can be realized by some pi in S_n.
Ureteroneocystostomy without ureteral remodeling for grade III-V vesicoureteral reflux treatment.

Summary Background Ureteral remodeling (tapering or tailoring) is often performed alongside ureteroneocystostomy (ureteric reimplantation) procedures despite limited evidence on its role in promoting reflux resolution. Objectives To investigate the efficacy of ureteroneocystostomy in the absence of adjuvant ureteral remodeling for promoting reflux resolution in grade III–V vesicoureteral reflux. Study design A retrospective analysis identified pediatric patients who underwent open or robotic assisted ureteroneocystostomy (OUN and RAUN, respectively) without ureteral remodeling (tailoring or tapering) at a single tertiary care center. The primary endpoint of reflux resolution was defined as no reflux on latest follow up postoperative voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG). Ureteral dilation was analyzed using the ureteral diameter ratio (UDR), which normalized for image characteristics. Inclusion criteria was as follows: grade III–V reflux, accessible postoperative VCUG scan, RAUN after June 2013 following technique optimization, and no other structural urologic abnormality or associated neurogenic bladder. Results A total of 68 ureters were analyzed (Grade III = 28, Grade IV = 27, Grade V = 13, OUN = 23, RAUN = 45). Complete reflux resolution was achieved postoperatively in 96% (27/28) of grade III, 100% (27/27) of grade IV and 100% (13/13) grade V cases, for a combined resolution rate of 99%. In the one failed case, the preoperative UDR was in the second quartile and postoperatively, reflux diminished from grade III to grade I. Notably, no cases with UDRs in the largest quartile required tapering/tailoring for complete reflux resolution. Discussion Ureteral tapering and tailoring were unnecessary to achieve reflux resolution in grade III–V VUR by both OUN and RAUN. Additionally, the unsuccessful case was classified as grade III with a UDR value in the second quartile, suggesting that high grade reflux (IV–V) can be repaired without tapering with equal success rates to that of grade III VUR repair, which is classically not tapered. Tapering was unnecessary for complete reflux resolution in the cases with the largest ureteral diameter ratios (UDR). These findings are limited by the single center retrospective nature of the study. Conclusions This study demonstrates that vesicoureteral reimplantation for resolution of grade III–V reflux is successful in the absence of ureteral remodeling techniques.
Interactive rank testing by betting.

In order to test if a treatment is perceptibly different from a placebo in a randomized experiment with covariates, classical nonparametric tests based on ranks of observations/residuals have been employed (eg: by Rosenbaum), with finite-sample valid inference enabled via permutations. This paper proposes a different principle on which to base inference: if -- with access to all covariates and outcomes, but without access to any treatment assignments -- one can form a ranking of the subjects that is sufficiently nonrandom (eg: mostly treated followed by mostly control), then we can confidently conclude that there must be a treatment effect. Based on a more nuanced, quantifiable, version of this principle, we design an interactive test called i-bet: the analyst forms a single permutation of the subjects one element at a time, and at each step the analyst bets toy money on whether that subject was actually treated or not, and learns the truth immediately after. The wealth process forms a real-valued measure of evidence against the global causal null, and we may reject the null at level $\alpha$ if the wealth ever crosses $1/\alpha$. Apart from providing a fresh "game-theoretic" principle on which to base the causal conclusion, the i-bet has other statistical and computational benefits, for example (A) allowing a human to adaptively design the test statistic based on increasing amounts of data being revealed (along with any working causal models and prior knowledge), and (B) not requiring permutation resampling, instead noting that under the null, the wealth forms a nonnegative martingale, and the type-1 error control of the aforementioned decision rule follows from a tight inequality by Ville. Further, if the null is not rejected, new subjects can later be added and the test can be simply continued, without any corrections (unlike with permutation p-values).
The Logic of Practical Reasoning

The aim of this chapter is to clarify the formal logic appropriate for practical reasoning. Several theories of practical reasoning have been proposed in recent years, of which Kenny’s theory, discussed in the last chapter, is a representative example. Although in criticizing Kenny’s theory I raised no doubts about the need for a special logic, involving special operators like Kenny’s ‘Fiat(…)’, I shall argue that practical reasoning can be interpreted as requiring no more than ordinary ’assertoric’ first-order logical principles. My view here is not based on general considerations or on philosophical ideology. I think there is a good prima facie case for a special logic of practical inference, and any dissenting view, such as mine, requires careful, detailed defense. I shall therefore proceed by considering important alternative views and develop my own position in the process of criticizing them.
Distribution of Alkaline Phosphatase, Osteopontin, RANK Ligand and Osteoprotegerin in Calcified Human Carotid Atheroma

Ectopic vascular calcification is a significant component of atherosclerotic disease. Osteopontin (OPN), Osteoprotegerin (OPG), Receptor Activator of NFκB Ligand (RANKL), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) are each thought to play central roles in the calcification or demineralization of atherosclerotic lesions. Abnormalities in the balance of these proteins may lead to perturbations in bone remodeling and arterial calcification. The purpose of this study was to measure the distribution of these proteins in human carotid lesions and to elucidate possible mechanism(s) whereby they control the deposition or depletion of arterial calcification. Thirty-three patients who had undergone carotid endarterectomy (CEA) within the previous 18 months and 11 control patients were enrolled. CEA specimens were analyzed by EBCT for calcification content in terms of Agatston (AGAT) and Volume scores. CEA specimens were then cut into 5 mm segments which were homogenized and extracted. Extracts were analyzed for tissue levels of calcium, phosphorus, ALP, OPN, RANKL, and OPG. Fasting blood samples were analyzed for the same components. In CEA tissue segments, the calcification levels (CHA AGAT) were inversely associated with the levels of OPG (r = -0.432/-0.579, p < 0.05) and positively associated with the levels of RANKL (r = 0.332/0.415, p < 0.05). In turn, the tissue levels of OPG were associated with homologous serum levels of OPG (r = 0.820/0.389, p < 0.001), and the tissue levels of RANKL were associated with the serum levels of homologous RANKL (r = 0.739/0.666, p < 0.0001). This study suggests that serum levels of OPG and RANKL may be useful biomarkers for estimating the degree of calcification in carotid atherosclerotic lesions.
COMPUTER SIMULATIONS OF NUCLEAR OVERHAUSER EFFECT SPECTRA OF COMPLEX OLIGOSACCHARIDES

Publisher Summary Structures of small proteins in solution can be solved by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy with accuracy comparable to X-ray crystallography. The method involves measurement of the 1 H NMR spectrum, assignment of all the 1 H NMR signals to individual protons of the protein, and measurement of 1 H nuclear Overhauser effects (NOE), which are then interpreted as measures of the distance between protons. These data are incorporated in molecular modeling algorithms to derive the protein structure. Among the methods that have been proposed for the interpretation of NOE-derived distance data in terms of biopolymer structure, the simplest and the most commonly used in proteins is the “isolated spin pair” approximation. One group of rigid isotropic models is provided by the “spin relaxation matrix method” in which the set of coupled linear differential equations describing the relaxation of the longitudinal magnetization is cast into a matrix form. In this method, the relaxation rate matrix represents the mutual cross-relaxation pathways of all the protons in the biopolymer. The NOESY spectrum of the oligosaccharide is measured using standard pulse sequences with phase information encoded either by the method of D. J. States or with the time-proportional phase increment (TPPI) method.
Active biosensors with dyed-doped microcavities

In this paper we propose an active biosensor based on dye-doped polymer microcavities. We carried out detailed analysis to show its improved sensitivity. Compared with passive high-Q microcavities, such active sensor can provide 10/sup 5/ fold narrower resonance linewidth in the transmission spectrum at the lasing condition. By detecting the resonance shift due to the presence of analytes in the surrounding solution, such compact active sensors can detect the refractive index change better than 10/sup -9/ in biomedical solutions.
The structure and organization of the luciferase gene in the photosynthetic dinoflagellate Gonyaulax polyedra

The structural features of dinoflagellate nuclei are distinct from those of other eukaryotes in several respects, and the mechanisms of DNA replication and transcription are almost completely unknown. In this study we investigated the structure and organization of the gene coding for luciferase (LCF), the enzyme catalyzing the bioluminescent reaction in the dinoflagellate Gonyaulax polyedra. The genomic lcf sequence, including its flanking regions, were completely determined. The transcription initiation site was identified using primer extension and RNase protection assays. Sequence analysis shows that, like the luciferin-binding protein gene (lbp) from G. polyedra, lcf does not contain introns. Analysis of results from genomic Southern blots, inverse PCR, and sequencing revealed that the lcf gene is organized as tandem repeats in the genome. The spacer region between the lcf genes, which very likely contains the promoter elements necessary for transcription initiation, has no TATA box or other known promoter elements or consensus sequences. However, a conserved sequence motif was identified by comparing the two intergene spacer regions of lcf and the peridinin chlorophyll protein gene, pcp; a novel 13 nt sequence, CGTGAACGCAGTG, which might be a dinoflagellate promoter, was found to be present in both.
Molecular basis of the rare gene complex, DIVa(C)-, which encodes four low-prevalence antigens in the Rh blood group system.

Background Over 40 years ago, an unusual Rh phenotype denoted DIVa(C)- was identified in a case of fatal haemolytic disease of the newborn in the third child of Madame Nou. Her RBCs expressed a partial D, weak C and four low-prevalence Rh antigens: Goa (RH30), Rh33 (RH33), Riv (RH45) and FPTT (RH50). The purpose of this study was to determine the molecular basis associated with this rare DIVa(C)- complex. Material and Methods Blood samples were from three donors previously identified as carrying the DIVa(C)- haplotype. Molecular analyses were performed by standard methods. Results The three donors were heterozygous for RHD and RHD*DIVa.2, and all carried a compound hybrid allele at the RHCE locus. This hybrid RHCE allele contained exons 2 and 3 from RHD*DIVa.2 and exon 5 from RHD [RHCE*CE-DIVa.2(2-3)-CE-D(5)-CE] and is in cis to RHD*DIVa.2. The RHCE allele on the in trans chromosome differs between the donors and is RHCE*cE in donor 1, RHCE*ce (254C, 733G) in donor 2 and RHCE*ce in donor 3. Conclusions The RHD*DIVa.2 encodes the Goa antigen, whereas the compound hybrid allele most likely encodes Rh33, Riv and FPTT. The weakly expressed C antigen on RBCs with the DIVa(C)- phenotype could be encoded by exons 2 and 3 from RHD*DIVa.2 in the compound hybrid. This is the first report of RHD*DIVa.2 being involved in a hybrid gene at the RHCE locus. As only one example of anti-Riv has been described, our molecular analysis and findings provide a tool by which to predict Riv expression.
Presurgical evaluation of patients with focal malformations due to abnormal cortical development (MCD)

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the presurgical evaluation of the patients with focal malformations due to abnormal cortical development (MCD). The methods used to confirm the diagnosis of epilepsy in focal MCD and those used to identify the epileptogenic lesion is briefly discussed. The role of subdural electrodes in the localization of the “epileptogenic zone” and the mapping of the functional cortex and its relationships with the anatomic (histopathological) lesion, and the epileptogenic zone is also discussed. MCD is a large group of histopathological cortical malformations with distinct architectural/cellular abnormalities, various MRI characteristics with variable degrees of in situ epileptogenicity and functional representation. The presurgical management of these malformations is complicated by the lack of a noninvasive technique that is able to identify the anatomical borders of the histopathological abnormality, define the location and extent of epileptogenicity, and correlate it with the functional representation. Further improvements in cellular and molecular imaging of clear markers of epileptogenicity, allow a clear definition of epileptogenicity and function; invasive evaluation is needed in some cases of focal MCD arising from potentially eloquent cortex.
Principal Component Analysis

This chapter considers classical and robust principal component analysis (PCA). Principal component analysis is used to explain the dispersion structure with a few linear combinations of the original variables, called principal components. These linear combinations are uncorrelated if \(\varvec{S}\) or \(\varvec{R}\) is used as the dispersion matrix. The analysis is used for data reduction and interpretation.
DSA and C1q assay in kidney post-transplant monitoring

Aim Predicting the risk of graft loss using C1q assay in the post-transplant DSA monitoring. Methods Retrospective review of post-kidney transplant patients who were tested for DSA after ABO compatible kidney transplantation with negative T and B lymphocyte crossmatch. Patients in post-transplant follow-up since 2007 were tested for donor specific HLA antibody (DSA) IgG class according to schedule by Labscreen phenotype beads/Single Antigen beads (SAB, One Lambda), and if detected, reflexed to C1q assay (One Lambda) since 2011. Results Of the 437 post-kidney transplant patients (range: 1–27 years post-transplant, mean 9.1 years), de novo DSA was detected in 74 (16.9%). C1q assay was performed in 50/74 DSA positive patients: Positive at least once N = 35 (70%) and Negative N = 15. DSA in 26 patients were tested for > 1 year; persistently positive C1q, N = 17, eventually became C1q negative N = 6, or became DSA negative N = 3. Overall, C1q positive DSA presented higher maximum MFI detected by both phenotype beads and SAB, and resulted in higher graft loss. C1q MFI was similar between graft lost and functional (defined by not on dialysis). Regardless of C1q status, graft loss was observed after month-to-years with DSA, indicating chronic antibody mediated rejection. Conclusions Patients with C1q positive DSA had higher MFI (IgG) levels and resulted in higher graft loss. Download : Download full-size image
Highly esterified pectin with low molecular weight enhances intestinal solubility and absorption of ferric iron in rats

The effects of the degree of esterfication (DE) and the molecular weight (MW) of pectins on intestinal solubility and absorption of ferric iron were investigated in vivo and in vitro. The pectins prepared differed in DE and MW, respectively as follows: P-A (73%, 860,000), P-B (75%, 89,000), P-C (22%, 1,260,000), and P-D (24%, 114,000). All the rats were fed a basal diet containing ferric sulfate as an iron source for 7d. Rats were deprived of feed for about 19h and then fed 6g (based on the preliminary experiment) of the basal diet or basal diet containing one of pectins (80 g/kg diet) for 2 h. One hour later, soluble, insoluble and tissue iron concentrations in both stomach and intestinal segments and serum iron concentration in portal blood were determined and the amounts of absorbed iron were calculated. Addition of pectin B to the diet resulted in significantly greater intestinal iron absorption and postprandial iron concentration in portal blood compared to the other groups. There were no significant differences in calculated absorbed iron and serum iron concentration in portal blood between control and other pectin groups except those fed pectin B. When ferric sulfate was added to the pectin solutions and pectin diets in vitro under simulated gastrointestinal condition, more iron was found in the soluble fraction compared to control containing no pectin (P < 0.05). Solubility of ferric sulfate in vitro was also significantly greater in both the solution and diet containing pectin B than in those containing no pectin (P < 0.05). The present findings clearly indicate that iron solubility was influenced by pectin's DE and MW. The pectin with the high DE and low MW enhanced ferric iron solubility and absorption of solubilized iron.
Manifest hostility as modified by the K and SO-R scales of the MMPI.

Summary An examination of the relationship of scores on Siegel's Manifest Hostility Scale (MHS) to Verbal Hostility, Fantasy Hostility, and Hostile Feeling responses to cartoon situations was undertaken, while controlling for sex of subject, sex of experimenter, and the social desirability (So-R) and ego strength/defensiveness (K) scales of the MMPI. MHS scores were significantly related to the three modes of hostility response, while sex of subject and sex of experimenter were not. Adjustment of the dependent variable means for So-R did not cancel MHS effects on Verbal or Fantasy Hostility, but adjustment for K cancelled the significant relationship between MHS scores and Fantasy Hostility and Hostile Feeling responses. Covariation of both K and So-R out of Verbal Hostility cancelled its relationship to MHS scores. Ego strength/defensiveness thus may be more significantly related to hostile responding than social desirability.
Demonstration of Li-based alloy coatings as low-voltage stable electron-emission surfaces for field-emission devices

Alkali metals have extremely low work functions and are, therefore, expected to result in significant enhancement of the electron emission if they are used as coatings on Mo or Si microtip field-emission arrays (FEAs). However, the alkali metals are physically and chemically unstable in layers exceeding a few A in thickness. Maximum enhancement of electron emission occurs for alkali–metal layers 0.5–1 ML thick, but it is extremely difficult to fabricate and maintain such a thin alkali–metal coating. We present here an alternative means of producing chemically and thermally stable, self-replenishing lithium coatings approximately 1 ML thick, which results in a 13-fold reduction in the threshold voltage for electron emission compared with uncoated Si FEAs.
Ergoline Alkaloids in Tropical Wood Roses

Extracts of Argyreia nervosa, a tropical wood rose, contain appreciable quantities of ergoline alkaloids tentatively identified as ergine isoergine, and penniclavine together with related substances.
Doubly asymptotic approximations as absorbing fluid boundaries

Geers, [i], first introduced such a relation (referred to in the sequel as the DAA) for arbitrary geometry. Improved versions, containing fitting matrices which could be used to give exact results at intermediate frequencies or times, were introduced by Geers [2] and DiMaggio et al [3,4]. Recent investigations [5,6] of both schemes have demonstrated that Geer's version [2] (hereinafter referred to as the DAA2) is preferable because it is much simpler and sufficiently accurate.
MobileAnalymator: Animating data changes on mobile devices

MobileAnalymator (Mobile Analysis Animator) is a visual analytic system designed to analyze geospatial-temporal data on mobile devices. The system is an Internet based application that allows analysts to work in flexile enviornments at anytime. Its client side is developed by Adobe Flash to animate and interact with data. The server side uses Java and MySQL to query, compute, and serve data. The analyst can run the analytical task from a tablet (or computer) with Internet connection. MobileAnalymator adopted spatial and temporal autocorrelations in the interface design and integrated tangible interaction in the navigation to support analysis process.