cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Assessment of gene expression in peripheral blood using RNAseq before and after weight restoration in anorexia nervosa

We examined gene expression in the blood of six females with anorexia nervosa (AN) before and after weight restoration using RNAseq. AN cases (aged 19-39) completed clinical assessments and had blood drawn for RNA at hospital admission (T1,<~75% ideal body weight, IBW) and again at discharge (T2,≥ ~ 85% IBW). To examine the relationship between weight restoration and differential gene expression, normalized gene expression levels were analyzed using a paired design. We found 564 genes whose expression was nominally significantly different following weight restoration (p<0.01, 231 increased and 333 decreased). With a more stringent significance threshold (false discovery rate q<0.05), 67 genes met criteria for differential expression. Of the top 20 genes, CYP11A1, C16orf11, LINC00235, and CPA3 were down-regulated more than two-fold after weight restoration while multiple olfactory receptor genes (OR52J3, OR51L1, OR51A4, and OR51A2) were up-regulated more than two-fold after weight restoration. Pathway analysis revealed up-regulation of two broad pathways with largely overlapping genes, one related to protein secretion and signaling and the other associated with defense response to bacterial regulation. Although results are preliminary secondary to a small sample size, these data provide initial evidence of transcriptional alterations during weight restoration in AN.
The Role of Cardiac Pacing: American College of Chest Physicians Guidelines for the Prevention and Management of Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation After Cardiac Surgery

New-onset atrial fibrillation (AF) occurs frequently after cardiac surgery. The utility of prophylactic atrial pacing to prevent AF following cardiac surgery has been investigated in a number of trials, but clinical guidelines for its use are lacking. Trials of prophylactic atrial pacing to prevent AF following cardiac surgery were identified by searching PubMed, the Cochrane database, selected medical journals, and references in selected articles. Nine randomized controlled trials were identified that addressed prophylactic atrial pacing after cardiac surgery to prevent AF. Prophylactic right atrial pacing and prophylactic left atrial pacing have yielded inconclusive results. Prophylactic biatrial pacing (BAP) reduced the incidence of AF significantly in four studies, reduced it nonsignificantly in one study, and had no effect in one study. On the basis of the literature that was reviewed and graded for quality, it was concluded that prophylactic atrial pacing to prevent AF after cardiac surgery is safe. We recommend that BAP be considered, particularly in patients who are at high risk for the development of postoperative AF.
The daybreak of the new creation: Christ's resurrection in recent theology

The essay suggests that three main approaches have been taken toward Christ's resurrection in recent theology. One view focuses on the question of existential meaningfulness. While it may or may not affirm the resurrection as a statement about Jesus' particular eternal destiny, it takes his resurrection primarily as a symbol of spiritual regeneration. A second view affirms precisely what the first rejects, namely, that Christ's resurrection is grounded in an actual historical occurrence. Knowledge of his resurrection is mediated by modern critical research and confirmed by it. Whether this mediation is necessary under the conditions of modernity or merely a matter of apologetic ground-clearing remains various within the type. Finally, there are those who argue that questions of meaningfulness and historicity, though important, are secondary, because determined by the nature of the resurrection event – which is necessarily unique in kind. Its meaningfulness and historicity are themselves correspondingly unique. Whereas the first type is seen as emphasizing transcendence at the expense of historicity, the second does the reverse by elevating historicity at the expense of transcendence. The mysterious conjunction of historicity and transcendence is what the third type regards as essential to understanding other relevant questions. The first type is represented by Schleiermacher, Bultmann and Tillich; the second by Pannenberg and Wright; the third by Moltmann, Frei and Barth.
Computed tomographic scan–diagnosed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease–emphysema: Eotaxin-1 is associated with bronchodilator response and extent of emphysema

Background Bronchodilator responses are a hallmark of asthma and a subset of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We evaluated subjects with COPD and computed tomographic (CT) scan evidence of emphysema to determine the biomarker profile associated with a bronchodilator response. Objective We investigated whether subjects with COPD and a bronchodilator response had increased levels of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid eosinophil biomarkers, T H 2 cytokines, CC chemokines, and serum allergen-specific IgE. Methods All patients with COPD and control subjects (n = 31) had chest CT scans to detect emphysema and subsequent pulmonary function studies, BAL for biomarkers, and serum IgE measurements. Results CT scan score, FEV 1 , carbon monoxide single-breath diffusion capacity, and BAL fluid neutrophil biomarker levels were similar in subjects with COPD who had or did not have a bronchodilator response of greater than 12%. In contrast, levels of BAL fluid eosinophil biomarkers (eosinophil cationic protein [ECP] and eotaxin-1) were greater in patients with COPD with a bronchodilator response, whereas T H 2 cytokines were not detectable in any patients with COPD. BAL fluid ECP and eotaxin-1 levels correlated with CT scan extent of emphysema. Immunostaining of COPD lung sections from a separate cohort of subjects with COPD and healthy subjects demonstrated epithelial expression of eotaxin-1 but no lung expression of IL-4 or IL-5. Conclusion Subjects with COPD diagnosed on the basis of the presence of emphysema on CT scan who have a bronchodilator response have increased levels of BAL ECP and eotaxin-1 but not T H 2 cytokines. Clinical implications Eosinophil biomarkers (ECP-1 and eotaxin-1) might identify a subset of subjects with COPD with emphysema on CT scans who have a bronchodilator response and an increased extent of emphysema on CT scanning.
Building the WTO Cathedral

The WTO law of remedies for violation appears incoherent. States that fail to comply with their obligations are subject to WTO-authorized retaliation. First, this retaliation takes the inefficient form of blocked trade by the complaining state. This remedy is unlikely to be useful to developing countries. Second, the amount of trade blocked by the violation is often used as the measure of authorized retaliation. This measure is not necessarily incentive compatible, as it is not necessarily linked to welfare. Thus, its use may result in inefficient breach, or inefficient compliance, with WTO law. Third, only states that engage in dispute resolution proceedings are authorized to retaliate, artificially reducing the possible incentives to comply. Fourth, authorization to retaliate is granted only prospectively, and there are generally no formal remedies for damages accruing before adjudication and the passage of permitted time for compliance. This also artificially reduces incentives to comply. This paper analyzes the rationale for, and structure of, welfare-based remedies that could form the basis for cash compensation in WTO law.
Valid parameter space of 2-D Gaussian Markov random fields

The valid parameter spaces of infinite- and finite-lattice (2-D noncausal) Gaussian Markov random fields (GMRFs) are investigated. For the infinite-lattice fields, the valid parameter space is shown to admit an explicit description; a procedure that yields the valid parameter space is presented. This procedure is applied to the second-order (neighborhood) 2-D GMRFs to obtain an explicit description of their valid parameter spaces. For the finite-lattice fields, it is shown that the valid parameter space does not admit a simple description; the conditions that ensure the positivity of the power spectrum are necessary, sufficient, and irreducible. The set of conditions for the infinite-lattice fields, however, serves as a good set of sufficient conditions for the finite-lattice case. The results readily extend to the class of d-D real and complex GMRFs. >
Abnormal coronary microvascular endothelial function in humans with asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction

Abstract Background Coronary endothelial dysfunction may potentially lead to myocardial ischemia and to the progression of heart failure. Though endothelial dysfunction is associated with advanced heart failure in humans, relatively little is known regarding their temporal relationship. Thus, the current study was designed to test the hypothesis that coronary endothelial dysfunction is present in patients with asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction. Methods and results Three hundred patients without symptoms of heart failure, with normal or mildly diseased coronary arteries at angiography underwent coronary vascular reactivity evaluation using intracoronary adenosine, acetylcholine (ACH) and nitroglycerin. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on the left ventricular ejection fraction (EF): patients with asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction (ALVD), EF P = .3). The change in coronary blood flow in response to ACH was significantly attenuated in the patients with ALVD when compared to the controls (−18.5% ± 14.9% vs 74.0% ± 7.2%, P P Conclusion The current study demonstrates that coronary microvascular endothelial dysfunction is present in ALVD. Thus, coronary endothelial dysfunction may be an early event in the pathophysiology of heart failure.
Poroelastic Effects on the Stress-Dependent Permeability of a Stiff Shale

This paper presents the results of a series of carefully conducted experiments to characterize the stress-dependent permeability of tight oil and gas shales. Specifically, the applicability of the Constant Rate of Strain (CRS) consolidation test to obtain continuous stress-dependent permeability data on tight shales is rigorously investigated. The CRS method has been widely used for geotechnical testing of very compressible sediments but has never been tested for very stiff and low permeability shales. The CRS method allows only for drainage from one end of the test sample and fluid flow is blocked at the other end while the sample is being compressed at a constant strain rate. An analytical solution is used to calculate the permeability from an idealized pore pressure distribution within the test sample. The tests were performed on a sample of Mancos shale trimmed in a thin disc-shape using a modified high-pressure triaxial cell. The paper shows that the CRS method can be used to reliably obtain continuous stress-dependent permeability data during consolidation of very low permeability shales provided poro-elastic effect is accounted for in the pore pressure dissipation calculation. A simple modification of the one-dimensional consolidation equation was found to be sufficient to account for the poro-elastic effect. The permeability values from the CRS tests were found to be comparable to those obtained from the Pressure-pulse Decay Permeability (PDP) and the Constant Pressure Gradient Permeability (CPGP) tests. Klinkenberg, non-Darcy inertial flow, and pore pressure variations effects were included in the gas permeability calculations. The need to account for poro-elastic effect in the determination of stress-dependent permeability from the CRS test requires careful determination of the Biot coefficient α and Skempton's pore pressure parameter B . It is shown that both α and B -value change significantly during compaction of the shale, and these changes have to be accounted for in the determination of permeability from the CRS test.
Adsorption and adsorbate-induced restructuring: a LEED perspective

Abstract The history of the surface crystallography of adsorbates on single crystals is reviewed, with emphasis on the development and contributions of low-energy electron diffraction (LEED). Highlighted aspects include: progress in LEED instrumentation and theory; atomic and molecular adsorption on metals and semiconductors; coadsorption; disordered overlayers; adsorbate-induced relaxations and reconstructions; and cluster-like bonding.
Optimization of the splice loss between photonic-bandgap fibers and conventional single-mode fibers

To understand the loss limitations of a splice between a hollow-core fiber and a conventional fiber, we use a numerical model to calculate the expected coupling loss between the NKT Photonics’ HC-1550-02 fiber and a single-mode fiber (SMF) of arbitrary step-index profile. When the SMF parameters are optimized, the splice loss is predicted to be as low as ~0.6 dB. This minimum is believed to be largely due to mode-shape mismatch. These predictions are confirmed experimentally by optimizing the splice loss between this photonic-bandgap fiber and five SMFs with different mode-field diameters (MFDs) and V numbers. With the SMF-28 fiber, the measured loss is 1.3dB, in excellent agreement with theory. Using a SMF with parameters close to the optimum values (MFD=7.2μm and V=2.16), this loss was reduced to a new record value of 0.79dB.
Using machine learning to predict catastrophes in dynamical systems

Nonlinear dynamical systems, which include models of the Earth's climate, financial markets and complex ecosystems, often undergo abrupt transitions that lead to radically different behavior. The ability to predict such qualitative and potentially disruptive changes is an important problem with far-reaching implications. Even with robust mathematical models, predicting such critical transitions prior to their occurrence is extremely difficult. In this work, we propose a machine learning method to study the parameter space of a complex system, where the dynamics is coarsely characterized using topological invariants. We show that by using a nearest neighbor algorithm to sample the parameter space in a specific manner, we are able to predict with high accuracy the locations of critical transitions in parameter space.
The Problem of Metropolitan Governance and the Politics of Scale

Cox K. R. The problem of metropolitan governance and the politics of scale, Regional Studies. In the United States, the problem of urban governance is in part, and in virtue of a characteristic jurisdictional fragmentation, one of metropolitan governance. This paper argues that in order to understand emergent solutions to these governance problems, it is important to place local governments both in the context of the state as a whole and the state as a differentiated territorial form. This leads to an approach emphasizing the politics of scale. The arguments are exemplified through the experience of one particular American metropolitan area. Cox K. R. La question de la gouvernance metropolitaine et la politique d'echelle, Regional Studies. Aux Etats-Unis, la question de la gouvernance urbaine est en partie, et en vertu des clivages jurisdictionnels types, une question de gouvernance metropolitaine. Cet article cherche a affirmer qu'il importe de situer l'administration locale a la fois par rapport a l'Eta...
The SONET ring transport planning problem

The demands for very high bandwidth transmission equipment and customers' emphasis on network reliability have driven many Telecommunications companies to employ Synchronous Optical Network (SONET) Rings. SONET technology coupled with physical self-healing ring topologies have vastly increased networks' transmission capacities and made network restoration virtually transparent to the customer. This introduction of SONET Rings has created a new phase of telecommunication network design. With the unique characteristics of rings and the highly nonlinear relationship between the demands and the ring capacity required to carry the demands, ring network design is a very challenging problem.
Vertebral artery dissection after neck extension in an adult patient with Klippel-Feil syndrome.

The association between Klippel–Feil syndrome and vertebral artery dissection is quite rare. We report an adult patient with vertebral artery dissection and Klippel–Feil syndrome, to our knowledge only the third reported case of its kind. A 45-year-old woman with a known history of Klippel–Feil syndrome presented with occipital head and neck pain following forced neck extension. Diagnostic cerebral angiography revealed a high grade vertebral artery stenosis, consistent with vertebral artery dissection. Following 6 months of medical management, a repeat diagnostic angiogram revealed complete healing of the vessel. While cervical fusion, as seen in Klippel–Feil syndrome, has previously been shown to cause neurologic injury secondary to hypermobility, the association with vertebral artery dissection is incredibly rare. We hypothesize that this hypermobility places abnormal shear force on the vessel, causing intimal injury and dissection. Patients with seemingly spontaneous vertebral artery dissection may benefit from cervical spine radiography, and this predisposition to cerebrovascular injury strongly suggests further evaluation of vascular injury following trauma in patients with Klippel–Feil syndrome or other cervical fusion as clinically warranted.
The Optical Properties of AuAl2 and PtAl2

The dielectric functions of AuAl2 and PtAl2 are measured in the 1.5 to 5.5 eV range. The spectra of reflectivity, absorption, energy loss function, and joint density of states are obtained and discussed in detail. The onsets of interband transitions at 2.125 and 2.834 eV for AuAl2 and PtAl2 respectively, are determined by least squares fitting to the absorption edges in the spectra of the joint density of states, which could be attributed to transitions between only the s–p bands for both materials. The remaining stronger absorption in the 2 to 5 eV region can be attributed to transitions between the s–p bands for AuAl2 but between both the s–p bands and the d and s–p bands for PtAl2. Die dielektrischen Funktionen von AuAl2 und PtAl2 werden im Bereich von 1,5 bis 5,5 eV gemessen. Die Spektren der Reflexion, Absorption, Energieverlustfunktion und kombinierten Zu-standsdichte werden erhalten und ausfuhrlich diskutiert. Der Einsatz der Interbandubergange bei 2,125 und 2,834 eV fur AuAl2, bzw. PtAl2, werden durch Anpassung nach der Methode der kleinsten Quadrate an die Absorptionskanten in den Spektren der kombinierten Zustandsdichte bestimmt, die den Ubergangen nur zwischen den s–p-Bandern fur beide Materialien zugeordnet werden kann. Die verbleibende starkere Absorption im 2 bis 5 eV-Bereich last sich Ubergangen zwischen s–p-Bandern fur AuAl2, jedoch fur PtAl2 sowohl den s–p-Bandern als auch den d- und s–p-Bandern zuordnen.
II.—The myth of the ship-holder: a postscript

(1919). II.—The myth of the ship-holder: a postscript. Annals and Magazine of Natural History: Vol. 4, No. 19, pp. 17-21.
Subband particle filtering for speech enhancement

Particle filters have recently been applied to speech enhancement when the input speech signal is modeled as a time-varying autoregressive process with stochastically evolving parameters. This type of modeling results in a nonlinear and conditionally Gaussian state-space system that is not amenable to analytical solutions. Prior work in this area involved signal processing in the fullband domain and assumed white Gaussian noise with known variance. This paper extends such ideas to subband domain particle filters and colored noise. Experimental results indicate that the subband particle filter achieves higher segmental SNR than the fullband algorithm and is effective in dealing with colored noise without increasing the computational complexity.
Long-term great auricular nerve morbidity after sacrifice during parotidectomy.

Objectives/Hypothesis: To clarify the extent and patient perspectives of great auricular nerve (GAN) morbidity and recovery after nerve sacrifice during parotidectomy 4 to 5 years after surgery. Study Design: Prospective series. Methods: Twenty-two patients who underwent parotidectomy with GAN sacrifice and were previously studied for GAN sensory outcome during the first postoperative year. We performed light touch sensation tests on each patient to develop an ink map representing anesthesia and paresthesia in the GAN sensory territory; patients also completed an outcomes questionnaire. Results: Nineteen (86%) of 22 patients completed follow-up. One patient completed the questionnaire over the phone. The prevalence and average areas of anesthesia and paresthesia decreased since the first postoperative year according to sensory testing and patient scoring. At 4 to 5 years, 47% (9 of 19) of the patients had anesthesia, 58% (11 of 19) had paresthesia, and 26% (5 of 19) had neither anesthesia nor paresthesia during sensory testing. Patients reported that the GAN dysfunction brought them no to mild inference with their daily activities. At a mean point of 2 years, 70% (14 of 20) patients felt that their sensory symptoms had either completely abated or stabilized. Conclusions: The posterior branch of the GAN should be preserved if it does not compromise tumor resection. If this is not possible, the patient and surgeon should be comforted in that only minor, if any, long-term disability will ensue. Laryngoscope, 2009
Toxicity of Seven Foliar Insecticides to Four Insect Parasitoids Attacking Citrus and Cotton Pests

Laboratory studies were carried out to compare the toxicity of seven foliar insecticides to four species of adult beneficial insects representing two families of Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae (Aphytis melinus Debach, Eretmocerus eremicus Rose & Zolnerowich, and Encarsiaformosa Gahan) and Mymaridae (Gonatocerus ashmeadi Girault) that attack California red scale, Aonidiella aurantii (Maskell); sweetpotato whitefly, Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (both E. eremicus and E. formosa); and glassy-winged sharpshooter, Homalodisca vitripennis (Germar), respectively. Insecticides from four pesticide classes were evaluated using a petri dish bioassay technique across a range of concentrations to develop dosage-mortality regressions. Insecticides tested included acetamiprid (neonicotinoid); chlorpyrifos (organophosphate); bifenthrin, cyfluthrin, and fenpropathrin (pyrethroids); and buprofezin and pyriproxyfen (insect growth regulators [IGRs]). Chlorpyrifos was consistently the most toxic pesticide to all four species of beneficial insects tested based on LC50 values recorded 24 h posttreatment compared with 48-h LC50 values with the neonicotinoid and pyrethroids or 96 h with the IGRs. Among the three pyrethroids, fenpropathrin was usually less toxic (except similar toxicity to A. melinus) than was cyfluthrin, and it was normally less toxic (except similar toxicity with E. formosa) than was bifenthrin. Acetamiprid was generally less toxic than bifenthrin (except similar toxicity with G. ashmeadi). The IGRs buprofezin and pyriproxyfen were usually less toxic than the contact pesticides, but we did not test for possible impacts on female fecundity. For all seven pesticides tested, A. melinus was the most susceptible parasitoid of the four test species. The data presented here will provide pest managers with specific information on the compatibility of select insecticides with natural enemies attacking citrus and cotton, Gossypium hirsutum L., pests.
Orientation relationships between coherent interfaces in hcp–fcc systems subjected to high strain-rate deformation and fracture modes

We investigated how coherent interfaces, between face centered cubic (fcc)/hexagonal close packed (hcp) systems, affect large strain deformation and fracture modes in hcp zircaloy aggregates with fcc hydrides. We derived 36 unique transformations related to coherent interfaces between fcc and hcp systems. We then used these orientation relations (ORs) with a dislocation-density crystalline plasticity formulation, a nonlinear finite-element, and a fracture approach that account for crack nucleation and propagation. We investigated how these ORs affect crack nucleation and propagation, dislocation density and inelastic slip evolution, stress accumulation, lattice rotation, and adiabatic heating. The predictions indicate that the physical representation of ORs affects local deformation and fracture behavior and are, therefore, essential for the accurate predictions of behavior at different physical scales in heterogeneous crystalline systems.
Math at home adds up to achievement in school

With a randomized field experiment of 587 first-graders, we tested an educational intervention designed to promote interactions between children and parents relating to math. We predicted that increasing math activities at home would increase children’s math achievement at school. We tested this prediction by having children engage in math story time with their parents. The intervention, short numerical story problems delivered through an iPad app, significantly increased children’s math achievement across the school year compared to a reading (control) group, especially for children whose parents are habitually anxious about math. Brief, high-quality parent-child interactions about math at home help break the intergenerational cycle of low math achievement.
Measuring multiple identities: what is lost with a zero-sum approach

This paper demonstrates the substantive and methodological flaws of a zero-sum, oppositional approach to conceptualizing multiple identities and suggests that each identity should be measured separately. Using original survey data from secondary school students in the Bosnia-Herzegovina and Croatia (N = 4417), the paper demonstrates that the oppositional approach is only appropriate where individuals perceive the identities to be incongruent. However, I argue that even where this commonly used oppositional approach fits the macro-level context, it is a normatively tainted measure of identity. Moreover, it can only gauge the relative importance of the two identities, and does not shed light on the absolute strength of either identity. By comparing the performance of each measurement approach as predictors of out-group antipathy, the paper demonstrates how the zero-sum approach clouds important relationships between each form of identification and other variables of interest.
Notes for a Code of Ethics for Australian Archaeologists Working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage

At the annual conference of the Australian Archaeological Association (AAA), held at the Wilderness Lodge, Burdekin Dam, outside Townsville in December 1990, there were discussions about the adoption of a Code of Ethics for Australian archaeologists working with Aboriginal heritage.
Cesium-131 brachytherapy in high risk and recurrent head and neck cancers: first report of long-term outcomes.

Purpose: The feasibility and efficacy of re-irradiation using contemporary radiation techniques to treat recurrent head and neck cancer has been demonstrated but the role of brachytherapy is unclear. Here we describe the use of 131 Cs brachytherapy with concurrent salvage surgery in 18 patients. Material and methods: Eligible patients underwent maximal gross resection of the tumor with implantation of brachytherapy seeds delivering a minimum dose of 80 Gy to the tumor bed. Rates of overall survival, locoregional progression free survival, disease-free survival, and radiation-induced toxicity were analyzed. Results: Retrospective Kaplan-Meier analysis shows median overall survival was 15 months and disease free survival was 12 months. Two patients developed grade 3 toxicity; all other complications were grade 1-2 with no grade 4 or 5 complications. Conclusions: Compared to prior literature, our study shows comparable rates of survival with a decreased rate of radiation-induced toxicity. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2015; 7, 6: 445-452 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2015.56764
Alternative Visions of Post-War Reconstruction: Creating the Modern Townscape

Having its origins in a 2007 conference on the theme of ‘Visual Planning and Urbanism’, Alternative Visions of Post-War Reconstruction adds to the growing list of revisionist histories of what came...
Formation of Buried Sio2 By High Dose Implantation of Oxygen at Room and Liquid Nitroeen Temperatures

We have carried out a study to understand the mechanisms involved in the formation of buried SIO 2 by high dose implantation of oxygen into Si targets. Oxygen ions were implanted at 150 keV with doses up to 2.5 X 10 18 ions/cm 2 and a current density of less than 10 μA/cm 2 into Si 〈100〉 at room and liquid nitrogen temperatures. In-situ Rutherford backscattering (RBS) analysis clearly indicates the formation of uniform buried SIO 2 for both room and liquid nitrogen temperatures for doses above 1.5 X 10 18 /cm 2 . Oxygen ions were implanted at room temperature into crystalline quartz to doses of about 10 18 ions cm 2 at 150 keV, with a current density of 〈10〉10 μA/cm 2 . The RBS spectra of the oxygen implanted quartz cannot be distinguished from those of unimplanted ones. Furthermore, Si ions were implanted into crystalline quartz at 80 keV and dose of 1 X 10 17 Si/cm 2 , and a current aensity of about 1 μA/cm 2 . However, no signal from Si in excess of the SiO 2 ratio could be observed. Our results obtained by RBS show that implantation of either Si + or O into SiO 2 under conditions stated above does not create a layer whose Si:O ratio differs measurably from that of SiO 2 .
Solution Chemistry in the A12O3-Sio2 System

In the alumina-silica system, the surface area of gels exhibit dependence upon both composition and the fluid in the pores during drying. Under controlled conditions, an anomalous drop in both the surface area and skeletal density of identically prepared gels occurs at a composition of 47% alumina. An effort has been made to understand the reasons for this phenomenon. The effect of various solution precursor systems has been investigated. Precursors that contain boehmite, or other colloidal species, do not exhibit low surface area/density at 47% alumina. Data from light scattering, infrared spectroscopy, and solution NMR will be discussed for the precursor system used to prepare low surface area gels. Data will be interpreted to determine the effect of solution structure on gel characteristics.
Does translational symmetry matter on the micro scale? Fibroblastic and osteoblastic interactions with the topographically distinct poly(ε-caprolactone)/hydroxyapatite thin films.

Material composition and topography of the cell-contacting material interface are important considerations in the design of biomaterials at the nano and micro scales. This study is one of the first to have assessed the osteoblastic response to micropatterned polymer-ceramic composite surfaces. In particular, the effect of topographic variations of composite poly(e-caprolactone)/hydroxyapatite (PCL/HAp) films on viability, proliferation, migration and osteogenesis of fibroblastic and osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells was evaluated. To that end, three different micropatterned PCL/HAp films were compared: flat and textured, the latter of which included films comprising periodically arranged and randomly distributed oval topographic features 10 μm in diameter, 20 μm in separation and 10 μm in height, comparable to the dimensions of MC3T3-E1 cells. PCL/HAp films were fabricated by the combination of a bottom-up, soft chemical synthesis of the ceramic, nanoparticulate phase and a top-down, photolithographic technique for imprinting fine, microscale features on them. X-ray diffraction analysis indicated an isotropic orientation of both the polymeric chains and HAp crystallites in the composite samples. Biocompatibility tests indicated no significant decrease in their viability when grown on PCL/HAp films. Fibroblast proliferation and migration onto PCL/HAp films proceeded slower than on the control borosilicate glass, with the flat composite film fostering more cell migration activity than the films containing topographic features. The gene expression of seven analyzed osteogenic markers, including procollagen type I, osteocalcin, osteopontin, alkaline phosphatase, and the transcription factors Runx2 and TGFβ-1, was, however, consistently upregulated in cells grown on PCL/HAp films comprising periodically ordered topographic features, suggesting that the higher levels of symmetry of the topographic ordering impose a moderate mechanochemical stress on the adherent cells and thus promote a more favorable osteogenic response. The obtained results suggest that topography can be a more important determinant of the cell/surface interaction than the surface chemistry and/or stiffness as well as that the regularity of the distribution of topographic features can be a more important variable than the topographic features per se.
Vagal Blocking Action of Phentolamine and Dibenzyline Studied by Direct Perfusion of the Sinus Node

SummaryIn the canine sinus node the negative chronotropic effect of vagal stimulation or of directly administered acetylcholine or methacholine can be blocked with directly administered phentolamine or Dibenzyline. Both these classical alpha adrenergic blocking agents are approximately equally effective, but relatively high concentrations are required for the vagal blocking action. The onset of vagal blockade is prompt but is seldom complete, and can be overcome with sufficiently high concentrations of acetylcholine. Considering the concentrations of phentolamine and Dibenzyline required during direct perfusion of the sinus node to produce effective vagal blockade, it seems unlikely that this experimental pharmacologic effect is of much significance during the use of these substances for their more familiar alpha adrenergic blocking action.
Do Takeover Defenses Deter Takeovers

Many researchers use the G-index and E-index to measure firms’ takeover defenses. Others argue that these indices are not related to firms’ takeover likelihoods. We develop predetermined instruments for a firm’s use of takeover defenses and report the first direct evidence that the G-index and E-index – as constituted and used in the literature – are negatively related to acquisition likelihood. The evidence is robust to a variety of specifications and methodologies. These results support studies that use the G-index and E-index to measure firms’ takeover defenses. We also provide data on new and plausibly exogenous instruments for firms’ takeover defenses.
Transformation of an ODE to an Integral Equation

This chapter elaborates transformation of an ordinary differential equation (ODE) to an integral equation. The transformation is applicable to second-order linear ODE and yields an equivalent integral equation. There is a standard transformation that allows a linear second-order initial value ordinary differential equation to be written as a “Volterra” integral equation. Given the differential equation with initial conditions for y ( x ), d 2 y / dx 2 + A ( x ) dy / dx + B ( x ) y = g ( x ); and y ( a ) = α, y '( a ) = β, an eqvivalent “Volterra” integral equation is y ( x ) = f ( x ) + ∫ K ( x , ζ) y (ζ) d ζ. There is also standard transformation that allows a linear second-order boundary value ordinary differential equation to be written as a Fredholm integral equation. The chapter also highlights that there are many other ways in which an ordinary differential equation may be transformed into an integral equation.
A New Multiobjective Modulated Model Predictive Control Method With Adaptive Objective Prioritization

This work proposes a new multiobjective modulated model predictive control (MPC) method for control of power electronic converters. The proposed method retains the advantages of conventional MPC methods in programing the nonlinear effects of the converter into the design calculations to improve the overall dynamic performance of the system and builds upon that by offering a new modulation technique for MPC to minimize the voltage and current ripples through by using a fixed switching frequency. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method, it has been used to overcome the stability problems caused by a constant power load in a multi converter system as a case study. Experimental results from a prototype cascaded converter system are provided to validate the theoretical outcomes.
Proteolysis of MLL Family Proteins Is Essential for Taspase1−Orchestrated Cell Cycle Progression.

Taspase1 was identified as the threonine endopeptidase that cleaves MLL for proper Hox gene expression in vitro . To investigate its functions in vivo , we generated Taspase1 −/− mice. Taspase1 deficiency results in non−cleavage (nc) of MLL and MLL2 and homeotic transformations. Remarkably, our in vivo studies uncover an unexpected role of Taspase1 in cell cycle. Taspase1 −/− animals are smaller in size. Taspase1 −/− MEFs exhibit impaired proliferation and acute deletion of Taspase1 leads to a marked reduction of thymocytes. Taspase1 deficiency incurs down−regulation of Cyclin Es , As , and Bs and up−regulation of p16 Ink4a . We show that MLL and MLL2 directly target E2Fs for Cyclin expression. The un−cleaved precursor MLL displays a reduced histone H3 methyl transferase activity in vitro . Accordingly, CHIP assays demonstrate a markedly decreased histone H3 K4 tri−methylation at Cyclin E1 and E2 genes in Taspase1 −/− cells. Furthermore, MLL nc/nc;2nc/nc MEFs are also impaired in proliferation. Our data are consistent with a model in which precursor MLLs, activated by Taspase1, target to Cyclins through E2Fs to methylate histone H3 at K4, leading to activation. Lastly, Taspase1 −/− cells are resistant to oncogenic transformation and Taspase1 is over−expressed in many cancer cell lines. Thus, Taspase1 may serve as a target for cancer therapeutics.
Abstract 294: Expression of Matrix Metalloproteases during the Differentiation of Porcine Adopse-Drived Mesenchymal Stem Cells ro Endothelial Cells

RationaleAdipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) are multipotent cells that have the potential to differentiate into different cell linages, and represent promising tools in various clinica...
Francisella tularensis Confronts the Complement System

Francisella tularensis has developed a number of effective evasion strategies to counteract host immune defenses, not the least of which is its ability to interact with the complement system to its own advantage. Following exposure of the bacterium to fresh human serum, complement is activated and C3b and iC3b can be found covalently attached to the bacterial surface. However, the lipopolysaccharide and capsule of the F. tularensis cell wall prevent complement-mediated lysis and endow the bacterium with serum resistance. Opsonization of F. tularensis with C3 greatly increases its uptake by human neutrophils, dendritic cells and macrophages. Uptake occurs by an unusual looping morphology in human macrophages. Complement receptor 3 is thought to play an important role in opsonophagocytosis by human macrophages, and signaling through this receptor can antagonize Toll-like receptor 2-initiated macrophage activation. Complement C3 also determines the survival of infected human macrophages and perhaps other cell types. C3-opsonization of F. tularensis subsp. tularensis strain SCHU S4 results in greatly increased death of infected human macrophages, which requires more than complement receptor engagement and is independent of the intracellular replication by the pathogen. Given its entry into the cytosol of host cells, F. tularensis has the potential for a number of other complement-mediated interactions. Studies on the uptake C3-opsonized adenovirus have suggested the existence of a C3 sensing system that initiates cellular responses to cytosolic C3b present on invading microbes. Here we propose that C3 peptides enter the cytosol of human macrophages following phagosome escape of F. tularensis and are recognized as intruding molecular patterns that signal host cell death. With the discovery of new roles for intracellular C3, a better understanding of tularemia pathogenesis is likely to emerge.
Redox Paradox: A Novel Approach to Therapeutics-Resistant Cancer.

Abstract Significance: Cancer cells that are resistant to radiation and chemotherapy are a major problem limiting the success of cancer therapy. Aggressive cancer cells depend on elevated intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) to proliferate, self-renew, and metastasize. As a result, these aggressive cancers maintain high basal levels of ROS compared with normal cells. The prominence of the redox state in cancer cells led us to consider whether increasing the redox state to the condition of oxidative stress could be used as a successful adjuvant therapy for aggressive cancers. Recent Advances: Past attempts using antioxidant compounds to inhibit ROS levels in cancers as redox-based therapy have met with very limited success. However, recent clinical trials using pro-oxidant compounds reveal noteworthy results, which could have a significant impact on the development of strategies for redox-based therapies. Critical Issues: The major objective of this review is to discuss the role of the red...
Climate-dependent topographic effects on pyrogenic soil carbon in southeastern Australia

Abstract The interactive effects of climate and topography on the composition, distribution and storage of soil organic carbon (SOC) remain unclear. This is particularly true for pyrogenic carbon (PyC) which is considered long-lasting in soil environments. With a goal to characterize how PyC responds to climate-dependent erosion and deposition processes, two hillslopes from SE Australia, differing in climate (MAP: 549 vs. 815 mm) and vegetation but with similar topography were selected for this study. We examined the colluvial soils that include A and B horizons on eroding (convex) and depositional (convergent) areas within each hillslope. Mid-infrared measurements with a partial least squares regression model were adopted to quantify the size and distribution of SOC fractions (i.e., particulate organic carbon (POC) fraction, humus organic carbon (HOC) and resistant organic carbon (ROC; representing PyC fraction) along the two hillslopes. These SOC fractions were examined with respect to climate, topographic position and soil depth. Total SOC was dominated by HOC (44 to 88%) followed by PyC (7 to 37%) and POC (0 to 37%). Effects of topography on inventories of PyC were more strongly expressed in the drier hillslope (eroding vs. depositional: 0.39 vs. 1.73 kg m−2) than the wetter hillslope (eroding vs. depositional: 1.14 vs. 2.46 kg m−2), which also illustrates that climatic effects on soil PyC differ between eroding and depositional hillslope areas. In contrast, relative contributions of PyC to SOC showed less systematic variation with topography (6.9–36.8% in eroding soils vs. 6.9–37.3% in depositional soils) and climate (6.9–36.8% at drier site vs. 6.9–37.3% at wetter site), which together with other laboratory and field data suggest that erosion may not preferentially transport PyC over other organic carbon forms or that erosional PyC flux may not be large enough to alter SOC concentration and distribution into fractions. Our results highlight the importance of considering topography in understanding SOC pools in general and PyC specifically under different climates.
Topoisomerase I and II Activity Assays

DNA topoisomerases I and II (top1 and top2, respectively) are ubiquitous enzymes that play an essential role in transcription, replication, chromosome segregation, and DNA repair. The basic enzymatic reaction of topoisomerases, namely reversible DNA nicking, is a transesterification reaction where a DNA phosphodiester bond is transferred to a specific enzyme tyrosine residue. Eukaryotic top1 and top2 exhibit major differences concerning their mechanism of action. Top1 acts as a monomer and forms a covalent bond with the 3'-terminus of a DNA single-strand break (1-3) whereas top2 acts as an homodimer and forms a covalent bond with the 5'-terminus of the DNA double-strand break with a four base-pairs overhang (Fig. 1) (1-4). No energy cofactor is required for top1 activity, whereas top2 hydrolyzes adenosine triphosphate (ATP) during its catalytic cycle. Fig. 1. Top1- and top2-cleavage complexes. (A) Top1 acts as a monomer, makes a single-strand break and covalently binds to the 3'-end of the break, leaving a 5'-hydroxyl end. (B) Top2 acts as a dimer, and generally makes a double-strand break. Each strand is cleaved by one monomer, with a 4-base overhang. Each monomer covalently binds to the 5'-end of the break and leaves a 3'-hydroxyl end.
Weight Labeling and Disordered Eating Among Adolescent Girls: Longitudinal Evidence From the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Growth and Health Study.

Abstract Purpose Weight stigma is implicated in disordered eating, but much of this research focuses on forms of stigma such as weight-based teasing. Methods In a large cohort of adolescent girls (N = 2,036), we tested the hypothesis that being labeled as "too fat" by others predicts subsequent greater disordered eating cognitions and behaviors. Results Compared with girls who did not report weight labeling, girls who were labeled at age 14 showed an increase in unhealthy weight control behaviors and disordered eating cognitions over the subsequent 5 years. These effects were independent of objective body mass index, race, parental income and education, and initial levels of disordered eating. Conclusions Exploratory analyses suggest that weight labeling from family members is more strongly associated with disordered eating than labeling from nonfamily members. This study highlights how the long-term consequences of weight stigma can potentially begin when one is labeled as "too fat."
Basic Principles and Anatomy for the Laparoscopic Surgeon

As we push open the barriers of minimally invasive surgery and incorporate new platforms, the gynecologic surgeon must utilize steadfast surgical and anatomic principles to optimize outcomes and reduce complications. In this chapter, we review laparoscopic principles and practical anatomy that allow one to safely operate in even the most challenging surgical landscapes. There is an emphasis on clearly labeled anatomy and illustration of critical anatomic relationships. We include a thorough discussion and demonstration of the anterior abdominal wall, vasculature, and innervations of the abdomen and pelvis, peritoneal landmarks, pelvic viscera, and the pelvic diaphragm.
The Enlightenment’s connections to two US accounting-based regulatory models:

Enlightenment ideals relating to individual and group autonomy versus state power have long shaped socioeconomic ordering in the Western world. This article explores how competing Enlightenment ide...
Treatment strategies and clinical outcomes of locally advanced pancreatic cancer patients treated at high-volume facilities and academic centers.

Abstract Purpose Locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC) treatment has varying practice patterns with poor outcomes. We investigated treatment using single-agent chemotherapy and multiagent chemotherapy (MAC) with or without radiation therapy (RT) at high-volume facilities (HVFs) and academic centers (ACs). Methods and Materials The National Cancer Database was used to obtain data on 10,139 patients with LAPC. HVF was defined as the top 5% of facilities per number of patients treated at each facility. Univariate and multivariable (MVA) analysis Cox regressions were performed to identify the impact of HVF, AC, MAC, and RT on overall survival (OS). Results The median age of patients was 66 years (range, 22-90); 50.1% were male and 49.9% female. Of the patients, 46.1% received MAC, 53.8% received single-agent chemotherapy, 45.7% received RT, 54.3% did not receive RT, and 5% underwent surgical resection. The median follow-up was 48.8 months. On MVA, treatment at HVFs and ACs remained significantly associated with improved OS, with a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.84 (P Conclusions Our results build on a growing literature supporting RT and MAC in treating LAPC. Additionally, we believe that—in the absence of prospective data—this makes a strong case for considering MAC with RT at ACs and HVFs for treating LAPC.