cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Conservation of Procrastination: Do Productivity Interventions Save Time Or Just Redistribute It?

Productivity behavior change systems help us reduce our time on unproductive activities. However, is that time actually saved, or is it just redirected to other unproductive activities? We report an experiment using HabitLab, a behavior change browser extension and phone application, that manipulated the frequency of interventions on a focal goal and measured the effects on time spent on other applications and platforms. We find that, when intervention frequency increases on the focal goal, time spent on other applications is held constant or even reduced. Likewise, we find that time is not redistributed across platforms from browser to mobile phone or vice versa. These results suggest that any conservation of procrastination effect is minimal, and that behavior change designers may target individual productivity goals without causing substantial negative second-order effects.
In vitro and in silico elucidation of antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory activities of bioactive compounds from Momordica charantia L.

Abstract Bitter melon (Momordica charantia) has been used to manage diabetes and related conditions in various parts of the world. In the present study, ten compounds were isolated from acetone and methanol extracts of bitter melon. The chemical structures of compounds were unambiguously elucidated by 1D, 2D NMR, and high-resolution mass spectra. Identified compounds 1–7 exhibited significant inhibition of α-amylase and moderate inhibition of α-glucosidase activities. Momordicoside G and gentisic acid 5-O-β- d -xyloside showed the highest inhibition of α-amylase (70.5%), and α-glucosidase (56.4%), respectively. Furthermore, molecular docking studies of isolated compounds 1–7 were able to bind to the active sites of both enzymes. Additionally, the isolated compounds 1–7 significantly attenuated lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation, downregulating the expression of pro-inflammatory markers NF-κB, INOS, IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, and Cox-2 in murine macrophage RAW 264.7 cells. One phenolic derivative, gentisic acid 5-O-β- d -xyloside, was isolated and identified for the first time from bitter melon, and significantly suppressed the expression of Cox-2 and IL-6 compared to the LPS-treated group. α-Amylase and α-glucosidase are targets of anti-diabetes drugs, our findings suggest that compounds purified from bitter melon may have potential to use as functional food ingredients for the prevention of type 2 diabetes and related inflammatory conditions.
A Kinetic Study of the Reaction Li + N2O: Non-Arrhenius Behavior Over the Temperature Range 363-900 K.

Li atoms are produced in excess N2O and He bath gas by pulsed photolysis of either LiI or LiCl vapor.
Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Management of Persistent Mullerian Duct Structures in a Male Infant: A Novel Technique.

Background: Persistent Mullerian duct syndrome (PMDS) is a rare disorder of sexual development that results in the presence of internal female reproductive structures in male children who are otherwise phenotypically normal. The removal of the Mullerian structures is suggested, as they pose a risk for future malignancy. Case Presentation: In this study, we present the case of a 14-month-old male infant who initially presented with bilateral nonpalpable undescended testes and was later diagnosed with PMDS. The effective removal of the Mullerian structures and bilateral orchiopexy was performed using robot-assisted laparoscopy, a novel approach for such a scenario. Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first report of using robotics for management of this syndrome.
Britain's Royal Ballet in Apartheid South Africa, 1960

This article reconstructs and analyses, for the first time, the Royal Ballet's state-sponsored tour of apartheid South Africa from February to April 1960. It traces the public outcry surrounding the company's decision to exclude its only dancer of colour, as well as the tour's planning, execution, and continuation through the Sharpeville massacre, local reception, and aftermath. In this episode of the post-war period, politics and high culture operated in tandem to sustain Britain's imperial connections amid decolonization and the Cold War. The article proposes a reframing of the ‘Wind of Change’ moment, analyses the role of ballet in Britain's cultural Cold War, and underscores the British state's willingness to set aside human and moral concerns for political advantage. Above all, it argues that, rather than being peripheral to, or merely reflecting, the British state's agenda, ballet enacted its politics.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance plasma concentrations and metabolomic markers of type 2 diabetes in the Diabetes Prevention Program trial.

Abstract Background Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widely used chemicals, some of which have been linked to type 2 diabetes. We tested whether PFAS concentrations were cross-sectionally associated with metabolites previously shown to predict incident type 2 diabetes using the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP), a trial of individuals at high risk of type 2 diabetes. Methods We evaluated 691 participants enrolled in the DPP with baseline measures of 10 PFAS (including total perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), total perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), and Sb-PFOA [branched isomers of PFOA]) and 77 metabolites. We used log2-transformed PFAS concentrations as exposures and standardized metabolite concentrations as outcomes in linear regression models adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, use of anti-hyperlipidemic or triglyceride-lowering medication, income, years of education, marital status, smoking, and family history of diabetes, with Benjamini-Hochberg linear step-up false discovery rate correction. Results Sb-PFOA was associated with the largest number of tested metabolites (29 of 77). Each doubling in Sb-PFOA was associated with higher leucine (β = 0.07 [95%CI: 0.02, 0.11] SD) and lower glycine (−0.08 [95%CI: 0.03, −0.13] SD). Each doubling of either total PFOA or n-PFOA was associated with −0.13 [95%CI: 0.04, −0.22] SD lower glycine. PFOA and Sb-PFOA were positively associated with multiple triacylglycerols and diacylglycerols, and total PFOS, total PFOA, and Sb-PFOA were positively associated with phosphatidylethanolamines. Conclusions PFAS concentrations are associated with metabolites linked to type 2 diabetes (particularly amino acid, glycerolipid and glycerophospholipid pathways). Further prospective research is needed to test whether these metabolites mediate associations of PFAS and type 2 diabetes.
Breastfeeding Practice Before Bottle Feeding Increases Breastfeeding Rates for Preterm Infants at Time of NICU Discharge

Background In our NICU, efforts over several years have resulted in improved rates of breast milk feeds for preterm infants at time of NICU discharge, but rates of actual breastfeeding have remained low. Aim We aimed to increase the rate of preterm infants who were breastfeeding at the time of NICU discharge. Methods We created a Preterm Breastfeeding Pathway (PBP) algorithm for infants who were cleared for oral feeding and whose mothers desired to breastfeed. If mothers could be present for at least 3 feedings a day, we deferred introduction of …
Electronic and catalytic engineering in two-dimensional vdW metal–organic frameworks through alloying

Bimetallic metal-organic framework (MOFs) alloys, in which heterogeneous metal clusters are incorporated into their backbone, are capable of highly selective separations and catalysis. Due to limitations in our fundamental understanding of their alloying, however, established methods result in phase-separated or amorphous two-dimensional (2D) MOFs or lack precise control over alloy ratios. Here, our results demonstrate 2D MOF alloys where metal cation ratios (M1 and M2) in M1xM21-xBDC (M1 or M2= Zn, Cu, Ni, Co, Fe, Mn) can be engineered on demand by controlling the metal salt dissociation constants. Resulting MOF alloys exhibit a highly 2D nature with excellent crystallinity and minute control over metal cation ratios. Our experimental and theoretical results show that their electronic bandgaps and photoexcited carrier lifetimes can be engineered by metal cation alloying. Interestingly, 2D alloyed MOFs enable high-efficiency photo-catalytic water reduction performance in Co/Ni MOF alloys owing to the spatially separated metal clusters in 2D MOF alloys.
Responses to Three Leading Libertarians: Rothbard, Paul and Rand

In this chapter we critically consider the views of three leading libertarians on the topic of this book. Their comments appear below. They are interspersed with my responses.
Systematic Review, An Illustration of Increased Transparency in a Framework for Evaluating Immunotoxicity Associated with PFOA and PFOS Exposure

Background: Systematic review methodologies were first developed to assess the efficacy of health care interventions, but these approaches can be adapted to evaluations of environmental health questions such as immunotoxicity associated with PFOA and PFOS exposure. This structured approach provides objectivity and transparency to the process of collecting, synthesizing, and reaching conclusions based on the scientific evidence available.
Chromatin Insulators and Epigenetic Inheritance in Health and Disease

The genome of eukaryotic organisms is compacted in the nucleus in a manner that allows transmission of the genetic material between generations and access of the replication and transcription machinery to the DNA. Expression or repression of specific genes is accompanied by alterations in the local chromatin carried out by DNA methyl transferases, histone modifying enzymes, ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling complexes, and histone chaperones that replace canonical histone for specific variants. Some of these changes in chromatin structure can be transmitted from mother to daughter cells or from one organismal generation to the next. As a consequence, alterations in the structure of the 10 nm chromatin fiber can carry epigenetic information encoding a memory of specific transcriptional states. Less understood is whether this chromatin fiber is arranged into higher-order levels of organization and, if so, whether they contribute to the establishment of patterns of gene expression that can be epigenetically inherited. Results obtained in the last few years suggest an affirmative answer to these two questions. Chromatin insulators are DNA-bound protein complexes that can mediate intra- and inter-chromosome interactions. In doing so, they can bring close together regulatory sequences located at large distances from each other. The effect on the expression of adjacent genes depends on the nature of the sequences brought into proximity, resulting in activation or repression of single genes or large chromosomal domains. In the process, insulators can then alter the status of the chromatin in these genes or domains and, as a consequence, modify patterns of epigenetic inheritance. It is now becoming apparent that insulator-mediated interactions contribute to the establishment of a three-dimensional organization of the DNA in the nucleus. Since this structure is directly related to gene expression, it follows that the organization of the genome within the nucleus is in part a determinant and in part a consequence of the transcriptional status of a
Asymmetric Information, Dynamic Information Production and Initial Public Offerings

This paper presents an information-theoretic model of IPO pricing in the presence of adverse selection and multiple trading periods. Initially investors produce information to reduce the information asymmetry and are compensated by the owner-manager. Some new investors enter and all investors engage in further information production in the subsequent periods as new information arrives to the market but the owner manager does not compensate any more. By incorporating future uncertainty and subsequent information revelation, the model is able to explain not only why firms going public are underpriced but also why, on average, they underperform in the long run. We use Linear Programming approach to obtain the optimal proportion of shares to be sold in subsequent periods and provide some numerical examples.
Properties of NADPH and oxygen-dependent zeaxanthin epoxidation in isolated chloroplasts. A transmembrane model for the violaxanthin cycle.

Abstract Epoxidation of zeaxanthin in isolated lettuce chloroplasts ( Lactuca saliva , var. Manoa) was dependent on reduced pyridine nucleotide and molecular oxygen and was stimulated by the presence of bovine serum albumin. Bovine serum albumin protected the epoxidase system from inhibition by fatty acids, and its effect was optimal at a bovine serum albumin/chlorophyll ratio of 14:1 ( w w ). NADPH and NADH were comparable in supporting epoxidation but were less effective than NADPH generated photosynthetically. Epoxidation was optimal at pH 7.8 and 7.4 in light and dark, respectively, and was inactive below pH 5.5. It is concluded that the epoxidase is an “external monooxygenase” and is located in a chloroplast compartment that remains neutral during illumination. The latter suggests that the violaxanthin cycle, of which epoxidation of zeaxanthin is a part, is a transmembrane system wherein de-epoxidation takes place on the loculus side and epoxidation on the stroma side of the membrane. This arrangement requires migration of the carotenoids of the violaxanthin cycle across the membrane in a type of shuttle. The possible role of this cycle in some regulatory mechanism of photosynthesis at the membrane level is discussed.
Corporate Lawmaking Influence and the Role of Political Capital: The FedEx Story

Corporate political contributions have been extensively regulated out of a concern that they provide corporations with undue influence over political decisionmaking. Campaign contributions, however, are not the main way that corporations influence public policy. Instead, corporate political activity consists of the development and deployment of political capital. This Article develops a theory of political capital to describe corporate investments in political experience, reputation and relationships. The conception of political capital offers a richer explanation for corporate political behavior than the portrayal of corporations buying political favors in a spot market. The argument that political capital is properly understood as a firm asset is further supported by empirical work demonstrating a relationship between political capital and firm value. The Article then illustrates the operation of political capital through a case study of the FedEx experience. By examining FedEx's involvement in a series of regulatory reforms, the Article demonstrates how FedEx has cultivated its political capital and used that capital to secure favorable regulatory changes. In so doing, the Article highlights the contributions of the political capital theory in explaining FedEx's success. The Article goes on to consider the extent to which the FedEx experience is typical, both by comparing FedEx to its commercial competitors and by identifying several factors that are likely to be key components in explaining FedEx's decision to invest in political capital. Finally, the Article explores the implications of the political capital theory for differences among firms. The political capital theory suggests that these differences may reflect efficient specialization and economies of scale. Moreover, the theory offers an alternative perspective on special interest legislation by positing that such legislation may reflect efficient subsidization of politically active leader firms to reduce the cost of free riding. Although this Article offers merely a modest starting point for future research, the political capital theory identifies key components of the political process that are outside the scope of existing research on corporate political activity. In addition, the Article suggests an agenda for future empirical research to develop the concept and role of political capital.
A Bacteriophage of Bacillus subtilis Which Forms Plaques Only at Temperatures Above 50 C II. Reduction of TSP-1-Specific Receptor Sites on Cells Grown at 37 C or 45 C, and the Temperature-Dependent Inactivation of Replicating Phage

The adsorption of subtilisphage TSP-1 to Bacillus subtilis W168 was tested with cells grown at 37, 45, and 53 C. Kinetic data, electron micrographs, and quantitative measurement of the per cent phage adsorbed all indicated that irreversible adsorption occurs only with cells grown at 53 C. If TSP-1 was allowed to infect cells at 53 C, subsequent shifts to 37 C inhibited phage replication and resulted in the inactivation of plaque-forming units.
Source and structure of bursty hot electron enhancements in the tail magnetosheath: Simultaneous two-probe observation by ARTEMIS

Bursty enhancements of hot electrons (≳0.5 keV) with duration of minutes sometimes occur in the tail magnetosheath. In this study we used the unique simultaneous measurements from the two Acceleration Reconnection Turbulence and Electrodynamics of Moon's Interaction with the Sun probes to investigate the likely sources, spatial structures, and responsible processes for these hot electron enhancements. The enhancements can be seen at any distance across the magnetosheath, but those closer to the magnetopause are more often accompanied by magnetosheath density and flow magnitudes changing to more magnetosphere-like values. From simultaneous measurements with the two probes being on either side of magnetopause or both in the magnetosheath, it is evident that these hot electrons come from the magnetosphere near the current sheet without further energization and that the enhancements are a result of bursty lateral magnetosphere intrusion into the magnetosheath, the enhancements and changes in the magnetosheath properties becoming smaller with increasing outward distance from the intrusion. From limited events having specific separation distances and alignments between the probes, we estimated that a single isolated enhancement can have a thin and elongated structure as narrow as 2 RE wide in the X direction, as long as over 7 RE in the Y direction, and as thin as 1 RE in the Z direction. We propose that Kelvin–Helmholtz perturbations at the magnetopause and subsequent magnetosphere-magnetosheath particle mixing due to reconnection or diffusion can plausibly play an important role in generating the bursty magnetosphere intrusion into the magnetosheath and the hot electron enhancements.
Strain contrast of dilute semiconductor GaN 1-x As x and Si 1-y C y hetero-epitaxial films in annular dark field images

The lower average atomic number strained GaN x As 1-x (x = 0.029 and 0.045) and Si 1-y C y (y ≤ 0.015) films were found to be brighter than the higher average atomic number GaAs and Si in annular dark field (ADF) images.
Web 2.0 and its dimensions in the scholarly world

A bibliometric analysis was performed on a set of 1718 documents relating to Web 2.0 to explore the dimensions and characteristics of this emerging field. It has been found that Web 2.0 has its root deep in social networks with medicine and sociology as the major contributing disciplines to the scholarly publications beyond its technology backbone — information and computer science. Terms germane to Web 2.0, extracted from the data collected in this study, were also visualized to reflect the very nature of this rising star on the Internet. Web 2.0, according to the current research, is of the user, by the user, and more importantly, for the user.
Quick compiler construction using uniform code generators

This paper describes our experience in using a common set of code generating subroutines as the basis for compilers of ALGOL W, ALGOL 60 and subsets of PL/I and COBOL. The advantages of using a common set of primitives for implementing more than one compiler include: (1) greatly reduced effort to implement additional languages; (2) simplified maintenance of the generated compilers; (3) standardized diagnostic messages for all compilers implemented using this system; and (4) simplified documentation of the compilers.
Ultrashort-pulsed laser microstructuring of diamond

Precision microfabrication of diamond has many applications in the fields of microelectronics and cutting tools. In this work, and ultra-short pulsed Ti: Sapphire laser was used to perform patterning, hold drilling, and scribing of synthetic and CVD diamonds. Scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, profilometry, and Raman spectroscopy were employed to characterize the microstructures. A tight-binding molecular dynamics (TBMD) model was used to investigate atomic movements during ablation and predict thresholds for ablation. The ultra- short pulsed laser generated holes and grooves that were nearly perfect with smooth edges, little collateral thermal damage and recast layer. The most exciting observation was the absence of graphite residue that always occurs in the longer-pulsed laser machining. The ablation threshold for ultra-short pulsed laser was two orders of magnitude lower than that of longer-pulsed laser. Finite-difference thermal modeling showed that ultra-short pulses raised the electron temperatures of diamond in excess of 100,ooo K due to multiphoton absorption, absence of hydrodynamic motion, and lack of time for energy transfer from electrons to the lattice during the pulse duration. TBMD simulations, carried out on (111) and (100) diamond surfaces, revealed that ultra-short pulses peel carbon atoms layer-by -layer from the surface, leaving a smooth surface after ablation. However, longer pulses cause thermal melting resulting in graphite residue that anchors to the diamond surface following ablation.
Editorial: Granulopoiesis versus monopoiesis: a consequence of transcription factors dancing with the right partners

Discussion on the intricate regulation of C/EBPA transcriptional activity and the delicate balance between normal myelopoiesis and transformation to AML.
Paratactic conjunctions in creole speakers' and ESL learners' academic writing

Second-language-writing research which examines ESL learners' transfer of speech-typical registers into their academic written discourse is predicated on a “native speaker of English/nonnative speaker or ESL learner” dichotomy which appears to exclude speakers for whom standard English is a second dialect, namely, speakers of Caribbean Creole English. This study addresses the shortcomings of this strict native speaker/nonnative speaker (ESL) dichotomy by examining the extent to which creole-English students grapple with the unfamiliar registers of academic written discourse as is reflected in their transfer of speech-typical conjunctions (what will be referred to as paratactic conjunctions) into their writing. By comparing creole-English students with ESL students, the study reveals that the writing challenges of learners of standard English as a second dialect are quite distinct from those of ESL learners. The study submits that the creole-English-speaking learners may be drawing more on paratactic conjunction function than their ESL counterparts because of the constant bidirectional shifting between the creole and standard English along the creole continuum and because of the similarity of creole and standard English vocabulary and the dissimilarity of their grammar systems – a phenomenon likely to mask the distinction between the conjunction system of the creole (which occurs only in the oral mode) and the conjunction system of standard English (which occurs in writing). Therefore, the “generic” notion of “ESL learner” to include all but native speakers of standard English seems to disguise the complex differences between learners of standard English as a second dialect and ESL learners regarding literacy challenges.
Inhibition of synthesis of sulfated mucopolysaccharides by estradiol.

The influence of estradiol upon incorporation of isotopes into the sulfated acid mucopolysaccharides of connective tissues of the rat has been studied. Administration of the hormone for 3 weeks significantly reduces the in vitro incorporation of S35-sulfate into cartilage and thoracic aorta without significantly altering the amount of hydrolyzable sulfate in these tissues. The reduction of sulfate incorporation into these tissues by estradiol represents reduced synthesis since the hormone reduces incorporation of sulfate into the acid mucopolysaccharides of the tissue to the same extent and since reduction in incorporation of C14-glucose also parallels S35-sulfate incorporation into acid mucopolysaccharides. The rate of synthesis of sulfated acid mucopolysaccharides is greater in thoracic aorta than abdominal aorta or cartilage. Since the amount of hydrolyzable sulfate is the same in these two portions of aorta, the turnover is also more rapid in the thoracic aorta.
Cytochrome staining of leukocytes in urine sediment. Assessment of inflammatory state.

Abstract Urinary sediments with significant pyuria were supravitally stained to assess the inflammatory state. Clinic patients showed a significant correlation between acute urinary infection, inflammation, and the predominance of live polymorphonuclear leukocytes. Post-transurethral prostatic resection patients demonstrated both infectious and postsurgical inflammation. No patient with acute infection failed to show a predominance of live polymorphonuclear leukocytes, which may be clinically useful in a more careful selection before relying fully on bacteriologic cultures.
An alternative support model for family members of the mentally ill: Modifying dialectical cognitive‐behavioral skill building (DBT)

Abstract This article provides an overview of the literature on family intervention programs and offers Linehan's (1993a) Dialectical Cognitive‐Behavioral Skill Building (DBT) as an alternative model to help family members of the mentally ill. With minor modifications, the theory, structure, aims, and strategies of DBT, originally developed for patients diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorders, resonate with the service needs articulated by family members of the mentally ill. Specifically, DBT offers support, teaches specific problem‐solving and distress tolerance skills, and fosters increased self‐awareness and interpersonal effectiveness. The model differs from other intervention programs because it appeals to health rather than pathology, targets problems rather than specific diagnostic groups, and integrates a dialectical rather than a linear view of reality and mental illness. Finally, because DBT relies on a group modality and is applicable (with modification) to a range of clients, it is an ...
Mathematical modelling of gas-solid reactions with solid product

Abstract Random pore structural models, that can be used with any type of pore size distribution, are developed for the study of gas-solid reactions with solid product under reaction conditions controlled by kinetics and diffusion in the product layer. An intraparticle diffusion and reaction model is also developed and used, along with the structural models, to study the transient behaviour of solid particles reacting under significant intraparticle diffusional limitations. Simulation results for the limestone-SO 2 system show that the transient behaviour of the reacting particles is strongly influenced by the type of the pore size distribution. Various pore structures characterized by the same values of internal surface area and porosity can lead to completely different reaction trajectories. The predictions of the mathematical models compare well with experimental data from the literature.
Liver-Directed Treatments for Metastatic Colorectal Cancer

When possible, surgical resection remains the “gold standard” for the treatment of hepatic colorectal metastases. Liver resection should be considered when complete removal of all macroscopic disease can be achieved safely. For those patients with unresectable metastases, or when a patient may not be a candidate for liver resection, many choices are available to the clinician in an attempt to achieve locoregional control, including tumor ablation, intra-arterial therapies, and radiation therapy. Whereas with surgical resection, durable local control can be considered potentially curable, other liver-directed approaches currently are mostly palliative. Ongoing trials are being undertaken to evaluate the role of such cytoreductive therapies. During the initial evaluation of any patient who might be a candidate for liver-directed therapy, particularly when the intent may be curative, complete assessment with high-quality imaging should be done before any therapy to determine the full extent of disease. Most importantly, the establishment of a multidisciplinary team upon initial diagnosis can optimize the choice and sequencing of the various systemic and locoregional choices available to the colorectal cancer patient.
Biochemical characterization of an invariant polypeptide associated with Ia antigens in human and mouse

Ii a 31,000 mol. wt polypeptide chain associated with murine and human Ia antigens was investigated for its labeling pattern, carbohydrate content and structural polymorphism. Two-dimensional gel electrophoretic analysis of tunicamycin treated cells from mouse and human lymphocytes shows that Ii contains two N-linked carbohydrate chains. Ii is a methionine rich polypeptide. Tryptic and chymotryptic two dimensional peptide maps of Ii chain associated with I-A and I-E subregion products are identical. This absence of polymorphism holds true when Ii chain is isolated from different mouse haplotypes. Human Ii chains from different HLA-DR types appear also invariant by peptide map analysis. By molecular weight, carbohydrate content, charge and tryptic and chymotryptic maps criteria, Ii of mouse and human are strikingly homologous.
Factors affecting the yeast-mediated conversion of ethanol to acetaldehyde in batch reactors

Abstract Whole cells of Pichia pastoris can be used to catalyse the oxidation of ethanol to acetaldehyde. The main product of the oxidation, acetaldehyde, is a competitive inhibitor of alcohol oxidase ( K 1 = 2.6 g l −1 ). When included in the reaction fluid, Tris (hydroxymethyl methylamine) is able to bind acetaldehyde and markedly improve reaction yields. Hydrogen peroxide, which is produced during the reaction, is very efficiently degraded by catalase present within the whole cells. Initial reaction rates can be increased by more than an order of magnitude through the addition of H 2 O 2 . A model equation that describes the effect of the concentrations of oxygen, Tris buffer, ethanol, and biomass is described.
The effects of alternative pretreatment strategies on anaerobic digestion and methane production from different algal strains.

Abstract The effect of various pretreatment strategies on methane yields following anaerobic digestion (AD) of five different microalgal strains was investigated. Pavlova_cf sp., Tetraselmis sp. and Thalassiosira weissflogii exhibited substantial methane yields of 0.4–0.5 L/g volatile solids (VS) without pretreatment, providing up to 75–80% of theoretical values. In contrast, methane yields from Chlorella sp. and Nannochloropsis sp. were around 0.35 L/g VS, or 55–60% of the theoretical values, respectively. Alkali treatment was not effective and thermal pretreatment only enhanced Nannochloropsis methane yields. Thermochemical pretreatment had the strongest impact on biomass solubilization with methane yields increasing by 30% and 40% for Chlorella and Nannochloropsis, respectively. The lipid content had a strong beneficial impact on the theoretical and observed methane yields as compared to protein and carbohydrate content. Other features such as cell-wall composition are also likely to be important factors dictating algal biodegradability and methane yields addressed in part by thermochemical pretreatment.
Evaluation of the Guidelines for Management of Pancreatic Branch-Duct Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasm

Background & Aims: The 2006 Sendai Consensus Guidelines recommend surgical resection for all suspected branch-duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (BD-IPMN) greater than 3 cm irrespective of symptoms, and those less than 3 cm with worrisome features. We aimed to evaluate the surgical characteristics of these guidelines retrospectively in pathologically confirmed cases of BD-IPMN. Methods: IPMNs resected at our institution (1995–2006) were classified as main-duct predominant or branch-duct (BD) predominant based on preoperative imaging and postoperative histology. Resected BD-IPMNs were classified histologically: low risk (adenoma, borderline) and high risk (carcinoma in situ or invasive cancer). Clinical data (presence of symptoms, mural nodule, dilated pancreatic duct, and cyst size) were correlated with pathology. Results: Between 1995 and 2006, there were 204 patients who underwent surgical resection of pancreatic cysts. Sixty-one patients had IPMN including 31 with BD-IPMN. A total of 74.2% (23 of 31) of BD-IPMNs would have been recommended for surgical resection including 69.2% (18 of 26) of low-risk lesions and 100% (5 of 5) of high-risk lesions. All 8 cases of BD-IPMN that would have been recommended for nonsurgical management were low-risk lesions. The positive predictive value of the guidelines is 21.7% (95% confidence interval, 9.7%–41.9%). The negative predictive value is 100% (95% confidence interval, 67.6%–100.0%). Between 2000 and 2007, 351 patients with likely BD-IPMN were evaluated but not resected. Conclusions: Implementation of the Consensus Guidelines to our single-institution, referral-based, surgical BD-IPMN population would have recommended resection of all histologically high-risk lesions. All lesions recommended for nonsurgical management were histologically low-risk lesions. For presumed BD-IPMNs less than 3 cm, the application of the Consensus Guidelines may reduce the resection rate for low-risk lesions.
Effects of equilibration time on the attainment of equilibrium between antagonists and drug receptors

Abstract The effects of various equilibration times on the antagonism of histamine responses by diphenyhydramine and triprolidine and on antagonism of carbachol responses by (−)-scopolamine in guinea pig ileal strips were determined on the respective estimates of pK b of the antagonists as measured by Schild regressions. If diffusion of antagonist into the receptor compartment is rate-limiting, then calculations from a model proposed by Furchgott predict that Schild regressions should shift to the right in a parallel fashion with increasingly inadequate equilibration times. However, if antagonist-receptor interactions are rate-limiting, then the shift to the right of the Schild regressions should be accompanied by an increase in slope. It was found that insufficient equilibration times resulted in non-linear Schild regressions with slopes greater than unity. A theoretical model based on rate equations derived by Paton adequately describes the observed effects and was used to predict the equilibration times required for antagonists, with specified rates of offset, to come equilibrium with receptors. It was shown also that the steepening effect on Shild regressions, at insufficient equilibration times, can produce a mean slope of unity for an antagonist which normally would have yielded a slope of less than unity. Thus, the slope of 0.6 for propranolol antagonism of (−)-noradrenaline responses in guinea pig trachea, resulting from the saturation of neuronal uptake by the agonist, is not detected if the Schild regression is determined at 30–40 min. Instead, a linear Schild regression with a slope of unity results yielding a fallacious pK b for propranolol of 7.9. Cancellation of the effect of neuronal uptake, by the addition of cocaine (100 μM), produces the correct pK b (9.0) after 2 h equilibration. The misleading appearance of equilibrium (slope = 1.0) at 30–40 min was due to the slower rate of onset of low concentrations of propranolol.
Removing batch effects from purified plasma cell gene expression microarrays with modified ComBat

Gene expression profiling (GEP) via microarray analysis is a widely used tool for assessing risk and other patient diagnostics in clinical settings. However, non-biological factors such as systematic changes in sample preparation, differences in scanners, and other potential batch effects are often unavoidable in long-term studies and meta-analysis. In order to reduce the impact of batch effects on microarray data, Johnson, Rabinovic, and Li developed ComBat for use when combining batches of gene expression microarray data. We propose a modification to ComBat that centers data to the location and scale of a pre-determined, ‘gold-standard’ batch. This modified ComBat (M-Combat) is designed specifically in the context of meta-analysis and batch effect adjustment for use with predictive models that are validated and fixed on historical data from a ‘gold-standard’ batch. We combined data from MIRT across two batches (‘Old’ and ‘New’ Kit sample preparation) as well as external data sets from the HOVON-65/GMMG-HD4 and MRC-IX trials into a combined set, first without transformation and then with both ComBat and M-ComBat transformations. Fixed and validated gene risk signatures developed at MIRT on the Old Kit standard (GEP5, GEP70, and GEP80 risk scores) were compared across these combined data sets. Both ComBat and M-ComBat eliminated all of the differences among probes caused by systematic batch effects (over 98% of all untransformed probes were significantly different by ANOVA with 0.01 q-value threshold reduced to zero significant probes with ComBat and M-ComBat). The agreement in mean and distribution of risk scores, as well as the proportion of high-risk subjects identified, coincided with the ‘gold-standard’ batch more with M-ComBat than with ComBat. The performance of risk scores improved overall using either ComBat or M-Combat; however, using M-ComBat and the original, optimal risk cutoffs allowed for greater ability in our study to identify smaller cohorts of high-risk subjects. M-ComBat is a practical modification to an accepted method that offers greater power to control the location and scale of batch-effect adjusted data. M-ComBat allows for historical models to function as intended on future samples despite known, often unavoidable systematic changes to gene expression data.
Toxicity of antilipidemic agents: facts and fictions.

Dyslipidemias, particularly elevated low-density lipoprotein and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, are associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality and frequently require the use of lipid-lowering drugs to reduce risk. These drugs include statins, fibrates, niacin, and intestinal-acting drugs such as bile acid resins and ezetimibe, which can be used as monotherapy or in combination. Short- and long-term safety concerns often influence the selection of a lipid-altering medication. A balance of efficacy with a favorable safety and tolerability profile is necessary for optimal therapeutic benefits. Recent evidence suggests that there may be differences in the adverse event potential among the available lipid-altering drugs, even within the same class. Awareness of clinically relevant adverse events with monotherapy may assist in the safe selection of individualized lipid-lowering therapy regimens, as well as the potential for drug-drug interactions that may pose a unique challenge in selecting combination drug regimens.
Design and fabrication of reconstructive mandibular models using fused deposition modeling

Purpose – Combination of advanced imaging, designing and manufacturing techniques has been rapidly developed in recent years for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes for medical devices. The purpose of this paper is to present a methodology for design and fabrication procedure of medical models using computer‐aided design (CAD) and fused deposition modeling (FDM) technique for application in the mandibular reconstructive surgery.Design/methodology/approach – Case studies of patients with mandibular defects are examined using CAD model construction including data acquisition from computerized tomography scan and data processing. Furthermore, the effect of advanced manufacturing parameters settings in FDM methodology is investigated.Findings – The models were used in assisting the surgeons in their reconstruction planning. A significant improvement regarding the success and convenience in surgery planning been reported.Originality/value – This paper explores the application and viability of FDM rapid prototy...
Brief Report: An Open-Label Study of the Neurosteroid Pregnenolone in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder

The objective of this study was to assess the tolerability and efficacy of pregnenolone in reducing irritability in adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This was a pilot, open-label, 12-week trial that included twelve subjects with a mean age of 22.5 ± 5.8 years. Two participants dropped out of the study due to reasons unrelated to adverse effects. Pregnenolone yielded a statistically significant improvement in the primary measure, Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC)-Irritability [from 17.4 ± 7.4 at baseline to 11.2 ± 7.0 at 12 weeks (p = 0.028)]. Secondary measures were not statistically significant with the exception of ABC-lethargy (p = 0.046) and total Short Sensory Profile score (p = 0.009). No significant vital sign changes occurred during this study. Pregnenolone was not associated with any severe side effects. Single episodes of tiredness, diarrhea and depressive affect that could be related to pregnenolone were reported. Overall, pregnenolone was modestly effective and well-tolerated in individuals with ASD.
The Dehydroepiandrosterone And WellNess (DAWN) study: Research design and methods

Levels of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and DHEA-sulfate (DHEAS), the major secretory products of the adrenal gland, decline dramatically with age, concurrent with the onset of degenerative changes and chronic diseases associated with aging. Epidemiological evidences in humans and animal studies suggest that DHEA(S) may have cardioprotective, antiobesity, antidiabetic, and immuno-enhancing properties. These observations led to the proposal that restoration of DHEA to young adult levels may have beneficial effects on age-related conditions. Most clinical trials of DHEA replacement have been limited due to small samples and short duration, restriction to one sex, failure to adjust for baseline endogenous hormone level and age, or lack of placebo comparison groups. We designed a double blind, placebo-controlled randomized trial to determine the acceptability, benefits, and adverse effects of 50 mg daily oral DHEA replacement for one year in 110 men and 115 women, aged 55 to 85, who were healthy and not currently using hormone therapy. A wide range of biological outcomes were studied including bone mineral density and metabolism, body composition and muscle strength, immune function, and cardiovascular risk factors. Steroid hormone levels, bone markers, cytokines, and the IGF-I, IGF binding protein system were measured at baseline and at 3 follow-up clinic visits. Changes in mood and well-being, cognitive function, and sexuality were assessed. Information on potentially confounding covariates such as smoking, alcohol consumption, exercise, diet and dietary supplements were obtained, and potential adverse effects of DHEA administration were monitored. This study enables an examination of the benefits of DHEA administration on the health of older men and women, and the influence of gender, age, and baseline endogenous DHEA level on each outcome variable. Potential mechanisms of DHEA action, including the biotransformation of DHEA to active steroids and steroid metabolites, enhancement of IGF-I bioavailability, and inhibition of IL-6 production can also be evaluated.
Novel Techniques with the Aid of a Staged CBCT Guided Surgical Protocol

The case report will present some novel techniques for using a “staged” protocol utilizing strategic periodontally involved teeth as transitional abutments in combination with CBCT guided implant surgery. Staging the case prevented premature loading of the grafted sites during the healing phase. A CBCT following a tenting screw guided bone regeneration procedure ensured adequate bone to place an implant fixture. Proper assessment of the CBCT allowed the surgeon to do an osteotome internal sinus lift in an optimum location. The depth of the bone needed for the osteotome sinus floor elevation was planned. The staged appliance allowed these sinus-augmented sites to heal for an extended period of time compared to implants, which were uncovered and loaded at an earlier time frame. The staged protocol and CBCT analysis enabled the immediate implants to be placed in proper alignment to the adjacent fixture. After teeth were extracted, the osseointegrated implants were converted to abutments for the transitional appliance. Finally, the staged protocol allowed for soft tissue enhancement in the implant and pontic areas prior to final insertion of the prosthesis.
Shear stress and shear rate differentially affect the multi-step process of leukocyte-facilitated melanoma adhesion.

Previous studies have shown that neutrophils (PMNs) facilitate melanoma cell extravasation [M.J. Slattery, C. Dong, Neutrophils influence melanoma adhesion and migration under flow conditions, Intl. J. Cancer 106 (2003) 713–722] Little is known, however, about the specific interactions between PMNs, melanoma and the endothelium (EC) or the molecular mechanism involved under flow conditions. The aim of this study is to investigate a “two-step adhesion” hypothesis that involves initial PMN tethering on the EC and subsequent melanoma cells being captured by tethered PMNs. Different effects of hydrodynamic shear stress and shear rate were analyzed using a parallel-plate flow chamber. Results indicate a novel finding that PMN-facilitated melanoma cell arrest on the EC is modulated by shear rate, which is inversely-proportional to cell–cell contact time, rather than by the shear stress, which is proportional to the force exerted on formed bonds. β2 integrins/ICAM-1 adhesion mechanisms were examined and the results indicate LFA-1 and Mac-1 cooperate to mediate the PMN–EC–melanoma interactions under shear conditions. In addition, endogenously produced IL-8 contributes to PMN-facilitated melanoma arrest on the EC through the CXC chemokine receptors 1 and 2 (CXCR1 and CXCR2) on PMN. These results provide new evidence for the complex role of hemodynamic forces, secreted chemokines and PMN–melanoma adhesion in the recruitment of metastatic cancer cells to the EC.
Bursts of electron cyclotron emission during disruptions of high β discharges in TFTR

Abstract During sudden disruptions of tokamak plasma discharges at high β, short and intense bursts of electron cyclotron emission (ECE) are observed. A unique combination of two fast grating polychromator instruments located at different toroidal positions is used to measure the emission and characterize these bursts. New insights into the 3D dynamics of these disruptions and the accompanying bursts of ECE have been obtained. An explanation of the bursting is presented which is consistent both qualitatively and quantitatively with observations, predicting for example radiation enhancement factors of about 10. Bursting can be explained not in terms of enhanced excitation of emission but rather in terms of reduction of absorption of thermal emission. Bursting is consistent with a modification to the electron distribution function fe due to a rapid energy or particle exchange between hot electrons and cold electrons from the edge, momentarily reducing the velocity gradient of fe in the thermal region. Large ELM (edge-localized mode) events also exhibit bursts of ECE due to a similar sequence of events.