cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A method for computation of velocity profiles by inversion of large-offset records

This paper describes a new method for recovering velocity profiles utilizing both phase and amplitude information including wide‐angle arrivals, post‐ and precritical reflections. This method is based on a double spatial transformation with a minimization procedure. The first transformation is slant stacking of the observed wave field (seismogram). The second is projecting the slant stacked wave field into the domain of horizontal slowness p and depth z. In this domain the inverse problem is reduced to finding the critical path p=V-1(z) where V(z) is the true velocity of the compressional waves. A numerical algorithm based on a minimization technique is used to find the critical path, which is equivalent to the set of turning points of the critically reflected rays. When this path is found, then the following criteria are satisfied: (1) most of the energy is concentrated away from the precritical region; (2) the computed reflection coefficients reach their maximum on this path; and (3) for horizontally st...
Peri‐implant versus periodontal wound healing

Aim Peri-implant gingival healing following one-stage implant placement was investigated and compared to periodontal healing.
Application of a three-dimensional finite-element method to strain field analyses

Abstract I have programmed a three-dimensional finite-element model to spatially integrate distributed strains. The mathematics is based on Cobbold and Percevault (1983). The method finds the pre-strain configuration of a region by unstraining rectangular prisms into parallelepipeds, then rotating and translating them iteratively to minimize the interelement deviations. A numerical singular-value decomposition calculates the necessary rotations and the final cycle of further strains to make a best fit of the elements. The deviation of elements from holes formed by their nearest neighbors indicates the degree of compatibility of strain measurements. The program reproduces the rotations required in examples with analytic solutions. Even though only a single horizontal layer of elements is used, the fitting procedure correctly calculates rotations in all three dimensions from the constraints of strain compatibility. Three-dimensional strains measured in an Archean greenstone belt of northeastern Minnesota were integrated using a layer of nearly equant finite elements. Rotations calculated from the pre-tectonic configuration accord with field observations of fabrics indicating variable amounts of shear. Rotations about horizontal axes are minimal, precluding large vertical shears. An estimate of 40% true horizontal north-south shortening across the belt can be made from the undeformed configuration.
Reply to Skoyles: Natural selection does appear to explain some cultural rates of change

With reference to the letter from Skoyles (1), our article (2) tested the hypothesis that those aspects of culture that may affect outcomes of survival and reproduction would evolve at a rate different from that of those that will not. We showed that, in the case of functional versus symbolic design traits for oceanic canoes, the former evolved more slowly. This is a commonly accepted signal of negative (purifying) selection for genetic evolution and when interpreting the fossil record. Although it does not prove that natural selection was at work, it certainly supports that inference. We do not attribute rates of symbolic trait evolution to positive natural selection; we explicitly rule out this possibility in the fourth paragraph of our article. We propose instead that symbolic traits may be subject to cultural selection—a different process.
Evaluation of functions on microcomputers: ln (X)☆

Abstract This paper is a continuation of a study of numerical software for evaluating elementary functions in a microcomputer environment. Here we describe three algorithms for evaluation of the exponential function that are based on rationals, polynomials and coarse table look-up, respectively. Focus is on the design of fast algorithms that preserve full machine precision in small scale machines which use truncated binary fixed point arithmetic with at most a sixteen-bit wordlength. Included in the paper is a comparison of the performance of these algorithms implemented in two contemporary microcomputers.
A Mouse Model of Acrodermatitis Enteropathica: Loss of Intestine Zinc Transporter ZIP4 (Slc39a4) Disrupts the Stem Cell Niche and Intestine Integrity

Mutations in the human Zip4 gene cause acrodermatitis enteropathica, a rare, pseudo-dominant, lethal genetic disorder. We created a tamoxifen-inducible, enterocyte-specific knockout of this gene in mice which mimics this human disorder. We found that the enterocyte Zip4 gene in mice is essential throughout life, and loss-of-function of this gene rapidly leads to wasting and death unless mice are nursed or provided excess dietary zinc. An initial effect of the knockout was the reprogramming of Paneth cells, which contribute to the intestinal stem cell niche in the crypts. Labile zinc in Paneth cells was lost, followed by diminished Sox9 (sex determining region Y-box 9) and lysozyme expression, and accumulation of mucin, which is normally found in goblet cells. This was accompanied by dysplasia of the intestinal crypts and significantly diminished small intestine cell division, and attenuated mTOR1 activity in villus enterocytes, indicative of increased catabolic metabolism, and diminished protein synthesis. This was followed by disorganization of the absorptive epithelium. Elemental analyses of small intestine, liver, and pancreas from Zip4-intestine knockout mice revealed that total zinc was dramatically and rapidly decreased in these organs whereas iron, manganese, and copper slowly accumulated to high levels in the liver as the disease progressed. These studies strongly suggest that wasting and lethality in acrodermatitis enteropathica patients reflects the loss-of-function of the intestine zinc transporter ZIP4, which leads to abnormal Paneth cell gene expression, disruption of the intestinal stem cell niche, and diminished function of the intestinal mucosa. These changes, in turn, cause a switch from anabolic to catabolic metabolism and altered homeostasis of several essential metals, which, if untreated by excess dietary zinc, leads to dramatic weight loss and death.
Assimilation is due to one perceived whole and contrast is due to two perceived wholes

Abstract There is evidence that assimilation occurs when stimuli form one perceived whole. The assumption that a single internal event results in both a perceived whole and assimilation follows. There is also evidence that a transition from assimilation to contrast can occur. This assimilation should be due to one internal event, and this contrast is argued to be due to an interaction between the internal events for two perceived wholes. Another proposal is that at any one moment in time all stimuli result in an outcome that has a specific position on a continuum that ranges from one strong perceived whole to two interacting perceived wholes to two independent perceived wholes.
Poor durability of carotid angioplasty and stenting for treatment of recurrent artery stenosis after carotid endarterectomy: An institutional experience * **

Abstract Purpose: Recurrent stenosis after carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is often regarded as an optimal application of carotid artery angioplasty and stenting (CAS). The extended durability of CAS for recurrent carotid artery stenosis after CEA is unknown. We present the intermediate-term surveillance results for all eight CAS procedures performed over a 28-month period at a single tertiary referral center. Methods: Patients had recurrent carotid stenosis after CEA, whether symptomatic or asymptomatic, of 80% to 99% stenosis on preprocedural carotid duplex scan examination. Uncovered, self-expanding metal stents, in conjunction with angioplasty, were used in all patients. Baseline and scheduled interval follow-up duplex ultrasound scan was used to assess intrastent restenosis. Further angiography was reserved for those patients obtaining additional intervention. Results: One transient ischemic attack was observed 1 day after the procedure, and no cerebral infarcts occurred. All patients had angiographic resolution of the stenosis and postprocedural duplex scan studies without residual stenosis. Subsequent interval surveillance duplex scan examinations revealed significant (60%-79%) to critical (80%-99%) recurrent stenosis in six (75%) of eight patients, two of whom went on to further interventions. Of those with intrastent restenosis, four (75%) progressed to critical (80%-99%) stenosis. Mean follow-up was 20.2 months (range, 12-37 months). The two lesions that have not yet shown restenosis are those with the shortest follow-up interval, each at 12 months. Conclusions: In contrast to the optimistic claims in other series, this limited series suggests that angioplasty with stenting for recurrent carotid artery occlusive disease after CEA, although relatively safe in the short term, has significant limitations in terms of durability of results. (J Vasc Surg 2001;33:1008-14.)
The utility of cognitive coping strategies for altering pain perception: a meta-analysis

The literature on the utility of cognitive coping strategies in pain control has been unclear because of 2 principal limitations: the lack of a validated classification system, and reliance on qualitative and quasi-statistical reviews. In this study, an empirically based multidimensional taxonomy was employed to categorize the variety of cognitive coping strategies into 6 major classes: external focus of attention, neutral imaginings, pleasant imaginings, dramatized coping, rhythmic cognitive activity and pain acknowledging. Meta-analytic techniques were introduced to evaluate the overall efficacy of cognitive strategies (in comparison to no-treatment controls), the relative efficacy of these strategies (how the different groups of strategies compare with one another), and the substantive efficacy of such strategies (how cognitive strategies fare against placebo/expectancy conditions). Results revealed that, in general, cognitive coping strategies are more effective in alleviating pain as compared to either no-treatment or expectancy controls. Each individual class of strategies significantly attenuates pain although the imagery methods are the most effective whereas pain acknowledging is the least effective. Positive expectancy is no better than no treatment. These findings stand in contrast with previous reviews that have not assigned prime importance to imagery or for that matter have not shown cognitive strategies to be particularly effective. Results are discussed with reference to attentional models and methodological issues.
Clinical efficacy and patient satisfaction with U-500 insulin use.

Abstract Aims The prevalence of highly insulin-resistant diabetes is increasing and treatment requires the use of very high doses of insulin. This study was performed to analyze efficacy and patient satisfaction with use of U-500 concentrated insulin. Methods The medical records of 40 patients using U-500 insulin for at least 3 months were reviewed. A quality of life questionnaire was administered 6 or more months after U-500 was initiated. Effects of U-500 use on HbA1c, weight, total daily insulin use, hypoglycemia, and patient satisfaction were measured. Results Patients had uncontrolled diabetes for 3 years prior to U-500 initiation despite insulin titration. Subjects required continued insulin titration to attain glycemic control even after U-500 initiation, but HbA1c decreased by 1.5% within 3 months. Subjects gained weight with insulin titration. Hypoglycemic symptoms increased early after transition to U-500 insulin, but patients reported fewer hypoglycemic episodes on the quality of life questionnaire. Patient satisfaction with diabetes care and control was significantly improved following transition to U-500 insulin. Conclusions Use of U-500 insulin assists with attaining glycemic control in highly insulin-resistant subjects, but at the cost of weight gain and increased insulin doses. However, patient satisfaction is improved with U-500 insulin use.
Fabrication of epitaxial SiGe optical waveguide structures

Abstract This paper reports fabrication of epitaxial Si/SiGe/Si-type optical waveguides with a well-controlled refractive index difference between the core and the cladding and with low transmission losses. A SiGe strip with a cross-section in the range of 0.5 μm ×0.5 μm– 5 μm ×5 μm was formed on the Si substrate. Then, a Si upper cladding layer was deposited. Some samples incorporated a compositionally graded layer between the SiGe core and the Si cladding layer. The fabricated structures show that the index contrast, Δn, increases linearly with the increasing Ge atomic concentration x in the Si1−xGex cores (Δn=αx, where α=1 at a wavelength of 0.633 μm). We determined waveguide transmission losses by measuring the ratio between the input and output optical power values through straight waveguides of different lengths. For waveguides with an index contrast (Δn/n) of 0.6% between the Si0.98Ge0.02 core and the Si cladding, the loss value for the wavelength at 1.55 μm was approximately 0.31 dB/cm. Structures with a graded layer show higher loss values than those without, which may be attributed to the asymmetric Ge grading in the horizontal and vertical directions. No measurable polarization dependence of the losses has been detected in waveguides, in agreement with the results of X-ray diffractometry that has shown relaxation of the Si0.98Ge0.02 on Si.
Application of Metabolic Scaling Theory to reduce error in local maxima tree segmentation from aerial LiDAR

Identifying individual trees across large forested landscapes is an important benefit of an aerial LiDAR collection. However, current approaches toward individual tree segmentation of aerial LiDAR data do not always reflect how the allometry of tree canopies change with height, age, or competition for limiting space and resources. We developed a variable-area local maxima (VLM) algorithm that incorporates predictions of the Metabolic Scaling Theory (MST) to reduce the frequency of commission error in a local maxima individual tree inventory derived from aerial LiDAR. By comparing the MST prediction to 663 species of North American champion-sized trees (which include the tallest and the largest trees on the planet), and 610 measured trees in semi-arid conifer forests in Arizona and New Mexico we show the MST canopy radius model rcan = bh a where b is the normalization constant, h is height, and a is a dynamic exponent predicted by MST to be a ¼ 1, can be applied as a general model in many water-limited conifer forests. MST also informs the estimate of individual tree bole diameter dbole (which aerial LiDAR does not measure directly) based on two primary size measures easily obtained from the aerial LiDAR: height h and canopy diameter dcan. A two parameter model bh p dcan is shown to better predict bole diameter
Stability of wind turbine switching control in an integrated wind turbine and rechargeable battery system: A common quadratic lyapunov function approach

The power generated by wind turbines varies due to variations in the wind speed. A pack of rechargeable batteries could be used as a reserve power source to alleviate the intermittency in the wind turbine power. An integrated wind turbine and battery storage system is constructed where the wind turbine is electrically connected to a rechargeable battery system. Such a system can operate in two modes depending on the wind speed, power demand, and battery limit. The switching conditions for the wind turbine to operate in multi-input, single-output and single-input, single-output control mode are discussed. Linearized approximations of the closed loop wind turbine system are derived in order to analyze the switching stability between control modes. Common quadratic Lyapunov function (CQLF) is established for both control modes to prove the system stability. Simulation results demonstrating system stability are also presented.
Synthesis and reactivity of new Ni, Pd, and Pt 2,6-bis(di-tert-butylphosphinito)pyridine pincer complexes.

Synthesis and characterization of new (PONOP) [2,6-bis(di-tert-butylphosphinito)pyridine] metal (Ni, Pd, Pt) complexes are reported. Surprisingly, these compounds [(PONOP)MCl]Cl in the presence of ...
Do business process reengineering projects payoff? Evidence from the United States

Abstract This paper examines whether implementation of business process reengineering (BPR) projects improve firm performance by analyzing a comprehensive data set on large firms in the United States. The performance measures utilized in the paper are labor productivity, return on assets, and return on equity. We show that firm performance increases after the BPR projects are finalized, while it remains unaffected during execution. We also find that functionally focused BPR projects on average contribute more to performance than those with a broader cross-functional scope. This may be an indication that potential failure risk of BPR projects may increase beyond a certain level of scope.
Development and validation of a modified annular shear cell (MASC) to study frictional properties of lubricants

Mostly, lubricants in the past have been evaluated on a tablet press. Some of the techniques used have been the force difference between the upper and lower punches (FD), the punch force ratio (R-value), the remaining force on the lower punch (REF) and the ejection force (EJF) (Holzer and Sjogren, 1981). These techniques generate parameters which effectively integrate over the whole compact-die interfacial area but preclude a point-to-point examination of the frictional conditions. The above parameters are also dependent on the stress transmission characteristics of the host material, which are not generally known. Since these parameters are usually measured on single punch presses using a filler binder excipient as the host material, it becomes almost impossible to comment decisively on the frictional properties of the lubricant under study. Thus it was proposed to develop a basic analytical tool which would provide reproducible measurement of friction data between pure lubricants and metal wall material under a controlled set of conditions. The modified annular shear cell (MASC) (Fig. l), similar to the annular shear cell designed to measure failure properties of powders (Carr and Walker, 1967/68; Kocova and Pilpel, 1971/72) but with a smooth polished surface on the underside of the lid instead of the recessed vanes, was designed and constructed to quantitate the amount of friction between a thin powder bed of the test lubricant and the polished steel underside of the lid. The MASC had an inner diameter of 15.24 cm and an outer wall diameter of 25.40 cm; these dimensions being chosen to give a reasonable size cell without too large a ratio
The use of chemical cues in the upstream migration of coho salmon, Oncorhynchus kisutch Walbaum

The migratory behaviour of coho salmon was studied in the field. Coho salmon, Oncorhynchus kisutch, exposed to synthetic odours in a hatchery and released into Lake Michigan as juveniles, were recaptured as migrating adults 18 months later. The movements of 43 individuals were followed in experiments examining the role of imprinted chemical cues in the homing migration. Movements in relation to controlled distributions of the imprinting odours revealed that chemical cues are used by the salmon in their upstream migration. Acting with the rheotactic response, fish were guided upstream by imprinting odours simulating their home stream. Coho salmon, in the absence of their imprinting odour, respond negatively to the current. Differential responses to current appear to serve in segregating fish imprinted to odours of different home streams.
Where Are Those New Antidepressants We Were Promised

The two articles on bupropion in this issue 1,2 remind us that this is one of several novel antidepressants that are generally assumed to be effective but are so far not available for the treatment of depressed patients. Bupropion is a particularly frustrating example of this group of drugs that seem always to be just out of reach. It was about to be released to the drug stores two years ago; it was suddenly called back and has not yet become available. In an editorial a number of years ago, I noted that depression was a very satisfying disorder—good to study, See also pp 139 and 145. rewarding to treat, and almost always nicely treatable. 3 Over the years, my optimism is wearing thin. One keeps suspecting that the "easy" cases of depression are now being treated by primary care physicians, leaving psychiatrists with a preponderance of depressed patients in
Effects of δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol on body weight and brain electrolytes in the chicken

Baby chicks were administered daily injections of δ 9-THC and records were kept of their body weight. The drug produced a marked decrease in weight gain. At 3 weeks of age, these animals were sacrificed and the concentration of various electrolytes in their brains was determined, along with another group of drug-naive animals. There were no differences in electrolyte concentrations for the chronically treated animals, but sodium and potassium levels were markedly increased in the acute group.
Translational Diffusion Measurements by Microcoil NMR in Aqueous Solutions of the Fos-10 Detergent-Solubilized Membrane Protein OmpX

Aqueous solutions of the detergent Fos-10 (n-decylphosphocholine) without and with addition of the integral membrane protein (IMP) OmpX (outer membrane protein X) have been characterized using pulsed field gradient-stimulated echo (PFG-STE) NMR experiments for measurements of translational diffusion coefficients. Effective diffusion coefficients for Fos-10 micelles in the absence of OmpX were obtained by observation of NMR signals from 10-bromodecan-1-ol that had been inserted into the micelles, and in the presence of OmpX by NMR observation of the protein. It is thus shown that solutions of Fos-10-reconstituted OmpX can be quantitatively described as a mixture of Fos-10 monomers, uniform Fos-10 micelles, and uniform OmpX-containing Fos-10 micelles, with Fos-10 monomers in fast exchange between the pools of these three species. This result establishes an avenue for efficient determination of the effective translational diffusion coefficients of IMP-containing detergent micelles based on observation of the...
On the fundamental group and homotopy type of open 3-manifolds

Abstract It is shown that a finitely-generated subgroup of the fundamental group of a 3- manifold is the fundamental group of a compact 3-manifold if the subgroup can be suitably approximated by a finitely-presented group. This result is then applied to study certain subgroups of 3-manifold fundamental groups: those subgroups which are finitely-generated and have finite abelianizations. In many cases, these subgroups are shown to be isomorphic to fundamental groups of closed 3-manifolds. Corollaries concerning the embedding of spheres and cells in 3- space are given. A necessary and sufficient condition is given in order that an open 3-manifold with no 2-sided projective planes should be homotopy-equivalent to a compact 3-manifold.
The fate of Hepatozoon species naturally infecting florida black racers and watersnakes in potential mosquito and soft tick vectors, and histological evidence of pathogenicity in unnatural host species

Abstract Haemogregarine parasites, derived from the Florida snakes Coluber constrictor and Nerodia fasciata and ingested by Aedes aegypti , completed sporogony within the hemocoeles of nearly all fed mosquitoes in 14–18 days, and produced oocysts typlcal of Hepatozoon . However, mortalities and morbidity were high in the Culex which had fed on the Coluber . Oocysts were not found in any Ornithodoros turicata (Argasidae) which fed upon either snake host, but many sections of fed ticks had gametocyte-like cells within the gut lumen. Most lizards, Anolis carolinensis and Anolis sagrei , infected per os with oocysts derived from both snake species developed infections. Infections in the lizards were largely confined to hepatic schizonts with few parasites found in erythrocytes. Unlike naturally infected snake hosts, Hepatozoon schizonts in livers of lizards were often either surrounded by an unidentified dark pigment or heavily infiltrated with mononuclear inflammatory cells.
Expression of smooth muscle actin in osteoblasts in human bone.

Abstract It is well known that certain connective tissue cells (viz., dermal fibroblasts) can express the gene for a muscle actin – α-smooth muscle actin – and can contract. This process contributes to skin wound closure and is responsible for Dupuytren's contracture. The objective of this study was to determine if human osteoblasts can also express the gene for α-smooth muscle actin. Immunohistochemistry using a monoclonal antibody for α-smooth muscle actin was performed on human cancellous bone samples obtained from 20 individuals at the time of total joint arthroplasty. The percentages of resting and active osteoblasts on the bone surfaces containing this muscle actin isoform were evaluated. Explants of human bone were also studied for the expression of α-smooth muscle actin in the tissue and in the outgrowing cells with time in culture. Western blot analysis was performed to quantify the α-smooth muscle actin content of the outgrowing cells relative to smooth muscle cell controls. Nine ± 2% (mean ± SEM; n=20) of the cells classified as inactive osteoblasts and 69±3% (n=19) of the cells identified as active osteoblasts on the bone surface contained α-smooth muscle actin. This difference was highly statistically significant (Student's t test, p Human osteoblasts can express the gene for α-smooth muscle actin. This expression should be considered a phenotypic characteristic of this cell type, conferred by its progenitor cells: bone marrow stromal-derived stem cells, and perhaps pericytes and smooth muscle cells.
Effect of strain rate on tension and compression stress-strain behavior in a TRIP alloy☆

Abstract The stress-strain behavior of a TRIP steel (9.4Cr, 7.7Ni, 3.0Mn, 2.8Si, 3.9Mo, 0.28C, balance Fe) was studied in both tension and compression over nearly 8 orders of magnitude of strain rates (10−4 to 3 × 103 sec−1). The alloy was prepared to give two different conditions of austenite stability by warm rolling at 450°C to reductions of 20% (condition A: relatively high stability) and 80% (condition B: relatively low stability). The Ms for both conditions was below 78°K. Testing was done at room temperature. For all tensile strain rates, a gradual drop in stress was obtained for condition B following initial yielding. An excess in flow stress was observed in compression over the same strain interval. Of particular significance are the series of large irregular stress-strain serrations that were obtained only for condition B at the highest strain rates used. A compression-tension stress differential was observed for both conditions A and B. The different stress-strain behaviors are largely interpreted in terms of the martensitic transformation (transition volume change, transition heat, and martensite strengthening) and deformation adiabatic heating. Condition B shows, after testing, the presence of two morphologies: stress-assisted and strain-induced martensite. Condition A shows evidence only of strain-induced martensite. It is proposed that the observed stress irregularities in condition B are the result of the formation of stress-assisted martensite concentrated in localized regions.
Enhanced hydrogen generation using ZrO2-modified coupled ZnO/TiO2 nanocomposites in the absence of noble metal co-catalyst

Abstract Mesoporous ZrO 2 -modified coupled ZnO/TiO 2 nanocomposites were prepared by a surfactant assisted sol–gel method. The photocatalytic performance of these materials was investigated for H 2 evolution without noble metal co-catalyst using aqueous methanol media under AM1.5 simulated light. The H 2 evolution was compared with coupled ZnO/TiO 2 , TiO 2 , ZnO and Degussa P25. The ZrO 2 -modified nanocomposites exhibited higher H 2 generation, specifically 0.5 wt.% ZrO 2 loading produced 30.78 mmol H 2 g −1 compared to 3.55 mmol H 2 g −1 obtained with coupled ZnO/TiO 2 . A multiple absorbance thresholds at 435 nm and 417 nm were observed with 0.5 wt.% ZrO 2 loading, corresponding to 2.85 eV and 2.97 eV band gap energies. The high surface area, large pore volume, uniform crystallite sizes and enhanced light harvesting observed in ZrO 2 -modified nanocomposites were contributing factors for effective charge separation and higher H 2 production. The possible mechanism of H 2 generation from aqueous methanol solution over ZrO 2 -modified nanocomposite is presented.
The Importance of Touch in the Care of Newborns

Babies start to learn of their world from the minute they are born. They begin to distinguish feelings, positive and negative, as they are cared for by their mothers—through touch. It is only in recent years that we have again recognized professionally the importance of the first years of life in the development of personality. We know that the mother plays a vital role in this development. The manner in which she holds, feeds, and touches her child constitutes his first consistent learning experience. With her he learns to relate to outside stimuli—hopefully, he learns love. A nurse can use her skills to guide a mother's reaction to her child, thus indirectly influencing how that child will react to society.
Reducing racial/ethnic disparities in childhood obesity: the role of early life risk factors.

Importance Many early life risk factors for childhood obesity are more prevalent among blacks and Hispanics than among whites and may explain the higher prevalence of obesity among racial/ethnic minority children. Objective To examine the extent to which racial/ethnic disparities in adiposity and overweight are explained by differences in risk factors during pregnancy (gestational diabetes and depression), infancy (rapid infant weight gain, feeding other than exclusive breastfeeding, and early introduction of solid foods), and early childhood (sleeping Design Prospective prebirth cohort study. Setting Multisite group practice in Massachusetts. Participants Participants included 1116 mother-child pairs (63% white, 17% black, and 4% Hispanic) Exposure Mother’s report of child’s race/ethnicity. Main Outcomes and Measures Age- and sex-specific body mass index (BMI) z score, total fat mass index from dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, and overweight or obesity, defined as a BMI in the 85th percentile or higher at age 7 years. Results Black (0.48 U [95% CI, 0.31 to 0.64]) and Hispanic (0.43 [0.12 to 0.74]) children had higher BMI z scores, as well as higher total fat mass index and overweight/obesity prevalence, than white children. After adjustment for socioeconomic confounders and parental BMI, differences in BMI z score were attenuated for black and Hispanic children (0.22 U [0.05 to 0.40] and 0.22 U [−0.08 to 0.52], respectively). Adjustment for pregnancy risk factors did not substantially change these estimates. However, after further adjustment for infancy and childhood risk factors, we observed only minimal differences in BMI z scores between whites, blacks (0.07 U [−0.11 to 0.26]), and Hispanics (0.04 U [−0.27 to 0.35]). We observed similar attenuation of racial/ethnic differences in adiposity and prevalence of overweight or obesity. Conclusions and Relevance Racial/ethnic disparities in childhood adiposity and obesity are determined by factors operating in infancy and early childhood. Efforts to reduce obesity disparities should focus on preventing early life risk factors.
Abstract 5419: Computationally-inspired engineering of supramolecular taxane nanoparticles

Clinical efficacy of long circulating lipid nanoparticles depend on high drug to lipid ratio, stability during circulation and sustained drug release after tumor accumulation. Achieving this is the holy grail of paclitaxel (PTX) lipid nanoparticles due to its incompatible physicochemical properties such as bulkiness, structural asymmetry, hydrophobicity that leads to low drug loading efficiency and tendency to crystallize leading to significant instability. Effective strategy to overcome these limitations could be devised by understanding molecular interactions of PTX with lipid bilayer at spatiotemporal level but these remain poorly understood. Here, using computer simulations, we have investigated the interactions of PTX with the model lipid bilayer at low and high drug contents. We found that PTX at low concentrations occupied the space in both hydrophobic and hydrophilic regions of the bilayer and did not exhibit significant destabilizing effect whereas at high concentrations it exclusively accumulated at the hydrophilic tail region causing significant rifts in the bilayer. In silico dynamic simulations showed that conjugation of PTX to cholesterol using a flexible spacer (Suprataxel, STX) stabilized the lipid bilayer at high concentrations. To confirm the theoretical observations, we engineered supramolecular nanoparticles of STX (STX-NP) and characterized the physicochemical and mechanical stability. In vitro efficacy studies showed that STX-NPs is comparable to PTX in multiple cancer cell lines. We demonstrated that STX-NPs were more efficacious than PTX in inhibiting tumor growth in 4T1 breast cancer and K-RasLSL/+/Ptenfl/fl ovarian cancer models. This study shows that the effective Supramolecular nanoparticles could be engineered by understanding the interactions between the drug and the lipid layer. Note: This abstract was not presented at the meeting. Citation Format: Ashish A. Kulkarni, Poornima Rao, Aaron Goldman, Shiladitya Sengupta. Computationally-inspired engineering of supramolecular taxane nanoparticles. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 5419. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-5419
The General Factor of Psychosocial Development and its relation to the General Factor of Personality and Life History strategy

Abstract It was hypothesized that the eight Eriksonian psychosocial stages form a single latent variable or General Factor of Psychosocial Development (GFPD) and that this latent factor is associated with the General Factor of Personality (GFP) and Life History (LH) strategy to the extent that the variables form a higher order Super-K factor. Correlational analyses and confirmatory factor analyses each supported the hypothesized GFPD. Additionally, correlational and confirmatory factor analyses supported the hypothesis that the three variables form a single Super-K factor. The results of Study 3 suggest that the relationship between the psychosocial stages and between the GFPD, GFP, and LH strategy remained after controlling for social desirable response biases.
Trends in intrinsic water-use efficiency of natural trees for the past 100–200 years: a response to atmospheric CO2 concentration

To evaluate how the land carbon reservoir has been acting as a sink to the anthropogenic CO{sub 2} input to the atmosphere, it is important to study how plants in natural forests physiologically adjust to the changing atmospheric conditions. This has been studied intensively using controlled experiments, but it has been difficult to scale short-term observations to long-term ecosystem-level response. This paper derives variations of plant intrinsic water-use efficiency from natural trees for the past 100--200 years using carbon isotope chronologies. This parameter may potentially cause an increase in plant growth rate by improving the efficiency of plant water use, especially in arid environments. Attempts were made to isolate the variations of intrinsic water-use efficiency as a function of only the CO{sub 2} concentration of the atmosphere. The intrinsic water-use efficiency of almost all trees increased with increasing atmospheric CO{sub 2} concentration. This is caused by an increase in the carbon assimilation rate (A) and/or a decrease in the stomatal conductance (g). The increase in plant intrinsic water-use efficiency may imply an increase in plant transpiration efficiency which may have a direct connection with changes in plant biomass.
Deoxycholate induces mitochondrial oxidative stress and activates NF-κB through multiple mechanisms in HCT-116 colon epithelial cells

Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kappaB) is a redox-associated transcription factor that is involved in the activation of survival pathways. We have previously shown that deoxycholate (DOC) activates NF-kappaB in hepatocytes and colon epithelial cells and that persistent exposure of HCT-116 cells to increasing concentrations of DOC results in the constitutive activation of NF-kappaB, which is associated with the development of apoptosis resistance. The mechanisms by which DOC activates NF-kappaB in colon epithelial cells, and whether natural antioxidants can reduce DOC-induced NF-kappaB activation, however, are not known. Also, it is not known if DOC can generate reactive oxygen species within mitochondria as a possible pathway of stress-related NF-kappaB activation. Since we have previously shown that DOC activates the NF-kappaB stress-response pathway in HCT-116 cells, we used this cell line to further explore the mechanisms of NF-kappaB activation. We found that DOC induces mitochondrial oxidative stress and activates NF-kappaB in HCT-116 cells through multiple mechanisms involving NAD(P)H oxidase, Na+/K+-ATPase, cytochrome P450, Ca++ and the terminal mitochondrial respiratory complex IV. DOC-induced NF-kappaB activation was significantly (P < 0.05) inhibited by pre-treatment of cells with CAPE, EGCG, TMS, DPI, NaN3, EGTA, Ouabain and RuR. The NF-kappaB-activating pathways, induced by the dietary-related endogenous detergent DOC, provide mechanisms for promotion of colon cancer and identify possible new targets for chemoprevention.
Optimal Sensor Deployment for Value-Fusion Based Detection

In many wireless sensor networks based detection and surveillance applications, the goal is to deploy sensors in an an area of interest such that certain false alarm and detection requirements are satisfied. Additionally, data fusion methods can be used to combine information from multiple sensors in order to enhance the ability of the network to meet the detection/false alarm requirements. In this paper, we pose the following question: Given a finite number of sensors that have the ability to cooperate via data fusion, what is the best way to deploy the sensors in order to meet the detection requirements in a mean squared sense, while maintaining a specified false alarm probability. Unlike prior efforts that rely on heuristics to address the deployment question, we present an optimal control theory based sensor deployment approach. Here, we model the system as a linear quadratic regulator with the deployment locations serving as control parameters. We quantify the effect of placing a sensor (and its ability to cooperate with other sensors) on the overall detection probability in order to develop an analytical solution. Using simulation results, we illustrate that our proposed approach is far superior in performance relative to existing methods in terms of minimum number of sensors needed to satisfy detection and false alarm requirements.
RSK Isoforms in Cancer Cell Invasion and Metastasis

Metastasis, the spreading of cancer cells from a primary tumor to secondary sites throughout the body, is the primary cause of death for patients with cancer. New therapies that prevent invasion and metastasis in combination with current treatments could therefore significantly reduce cancer recurrence and morbidity. Metastasis is driven by altered signaling pathways that induce changes in cell–cell adhesion, the cytoskeleton, integrin function, protease expression, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and cell survival. The ribosomal S6 kinase (RSK) family of kinases is a group of extracellular signal–regulated kinase/mitogen-activated protein kinase (ERK/MAPK) effectors that can regulate these steps of metastasis by phosphorylating both nuclear and cytoplasmic targets. However, our understanding of RSK function in metastasis remains incomplete and is complicated by the fact that the four RSK isoforms perform nonredundant, sometimes opposing functions. Although some isoforms promote cell motility and invasion by altering transcription and integrin activity, others impair cell motility and invasion through effects on the actin cytoskeleton. The mechanism of RSK action depends both on the isoform and the cancer type. However, despite the variance in RSK-mediated outcomes, chemical inhibition of this group of kinases has proven effective in blocking invasion and metastasis of several solid tumors in preclinical models. RSKs are therefore a promising drug target for antimetastatic cancer treatments that could supplement and improve current therapeutic approaches. This review highlights contradiction and agreement in the current data on the function of RSK isoforms in metastasis and suggests ways forward in developing RSK inhibitors as new antimetastasis drugs. Cancer Res; 73(20); 6099–105. ©2013 AACR .
Morphological differences between aortic and aortic valve endothelial cells in static and fluid flow conditions

Tissue engineering technology requires the use of cultured cells to mimic the function of the tissue that a device is intended to replace. This is particularly important for tissues in contact with blood, such as a heart valve, where endothelial cells are complex mediators of this interaction. It is not known whether endothelial cells from heart valves exhibit the same behavior as the more characterized aortic endothelial cells in the presence of fluid flow. Endothelial cells of aortic and aortic valvular origin were subjected to laminar shear stress (20 dynes/cm/sup 2/) for up to 48 hours, with static cultures serving as controls. We report that aortic valve endothelial cells align perpendicular to flow, in direct contrast to the aortic endothelial cells, which align parallel to flow. This behavioral difference could have implications in cell source decisions for heart valve tissue engineering, as specialized cell types are needed to function effectively in complex environments.
Utilization of DNA as a Sole Source of Phosphorus, Carbon, and Energy by Shewanella spp.: Ecological and Physiological Implications for Dissimilatory Metal Reduction

The solubility of orthophosphate (PO43−) in iron-rich sediments can be exceedingly low, limiting the bioavailability of this essential nutrient to microbial populations that catalyze critical biogeochemical reactions. Here we demonstrate that dissolved extracellular DNA can serve as a sole source of phosphorus, as well as carbon and energy, for metal-reducing bacteria of the genus Shewanella. Shewanella oneidensis MR-1, Shewanella putrefaciens CN32, and Shewanella sp. strain W3-18-1 all grew with DNA but displayed different growth rates. W3-18-1 exhibited the highest growth rate with DNA. While strain W3-18-1 displayed Ca2+-independent DNA utilization, both CN32 and MR-1 required millimolar concentrations of Ca2+ for growth with DNA. For S. oneidensis MR-1, the utilization of DNA as a sole source of phosphorus is linked to the activities of extracellular phosphatase(s) and a Ca2+-dependent nuclease(s), which are regulated by phosphorus availability. Mass spectrometry analysis of the extracellular proteome of MR-1 identified one putative endonuclease (SO1844), a predicted UshA (bifunctional UDP-sugar hydrolase/5′ nucleotidase), a predicted PhoX (calcium-activated alkaline phosphatase), and a predicted CpdB (bifunctional 2′,3′ cyclic nucleotide 2′ phosphodiesterase/3′ nucleotidase), all of which could play important roles in the extracellular degradation of DNA under phosphorus-limiting conditions. Overall, the results of this study suggest that the ability to use exogenous DNA as the sole source of phosphorus is widespread among the shewanellae, and perhaps among all prokaryotes, and may be especially important for nutrient cycling in metal-reducing environments.
Nondirectivity in the Person-Centered Approach: Critique of Kahn’s Critique

This article responds to a critique of nondirectivity in the person-centered approach by Edwin Kahn. Kahn contended (a) that it is impossible for a therapist to be consistently nondirective because...
312: Class I and II HLA Sensitization Pre-Transplant by Solid-Phase Assay and Early Outcome after Pediatric Heart Transplantation

ment [median 325 (IQR 163-480) ATP ng/ml] vs. pts without AR [median 330 (IQR 227-441) ATP ng/ml] (p 0.36). CICFA levels did not discriminate between pts who had AR within 3 months of CICFA measurement [median 329 (IQR 187-481) ATP ng/ml] vs. those who did not [median 330 (IQR 227-443) ATP ng/ml] (p 0.54). CICFA levels were similar among pts with infections and those without infections within 3 months of CICFA measurement [median 344 (IQR 211-401) ATP ng/ml] vs. [median 330 (IQR 228-456) ATP ng/ml] (p 0.65). Using the reported ranges in adult pts, low CICFA levels ( 225 ATP ng/ml) were not predictive of infection within 3 months (OR 1.2 95%CI 0.50-2.8, p 0.71), and high CICFA levels ( 525 ATP ng/ml) were not predictive of rejection either at the time of CICFA level (OR 1.1 95%CI 0.37-3.4, p 0.85) or within 3 months of CICFA level (OR 1.1 95%CI 0.46-2.6, p 0.82). Conclusions: The CICFA is not predictive of AR or significant infections in pediatric HT pts. Based on the available evidence, this assay cannot be recommended as part of the routine management of pediatric HT pts. 312
Motor “Dexterity”?: Evidence that Left Hemisphere Lateralization of Motor Circuit Connectivity Is Associated with Better Motor Performance in Children

Motor control relies on well-established motor circuits, which are critical for typical child development. Although many imaging studies have examined task activation during motor performance, none have examined the relationship between functional intrinsic connectivity and motor ability. The current study investigated the relationship between resting state functional connectivity within the motor network and motor performance assessment outside of the scanner in 40 typically developing right-handed children. Better motor performance correlated with greater left-lateralized (mean left hemisphere—mean right hemisphere) motor circuit connectivity. Speed, rhythmicity, and control of movements were associated with connectivity within different individual region pairs: faster speed was associated with more left-lateralized putamen–thalamus connectivity, less overflow with more left-lateralized supplementary motor–primary motor connectivity, and less dysrhythmia with more left-lateralized supplementary motor–anterior cerebellar connectivity. These findings suggest that for right-handed children, superior motor development depends on the establishment of left-hemisphere dominance in intrinsic motor network connectivity.
Optical properties effects upon the collection efficiency of optical fibers in different probe configurations

When optical fibers are used for delivery and collection of light, two major factors affect the measurement of collected light: 1) light transport in the medium from the source to the detection fiber and 2) light coupling to the optical fiber (which depends on the angular distribution of photons entering the fiber). This paper studies the latter factor, describing how the efficiency of the coupling depends on the optical properties of the sample. The coupling dependence on optical properties is verified by comparing experimental data to a simple diffusion model and to a Monte Carlo (MC)-corrected diffusion model. Mean square errors were 7.9% and 1.4% between experiments and the diffusion, and experiments and the MC-corrected models, respectively. The efficiency of coupling was shown to be highly dependent on the numerical aperture (NA) of the optical fiber. However, for lower scattering, such as in soft tissues, the efficiency of coupling could vary two- and threefold from that predicted by fiber NA. The collection efficiency can be used as a practical guide for choosing optical fiber-based systems for biomedical applications.