cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Trace Mineral Supplementation in the Presence of Antagonists on Growth Performance, Health, and Carcass Characteristics of Transport-Stressed Calves

Crossbred steer calves (n = 64) were used in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement to evaluate two levels of organic trace minerals and two levels of inorganic trace minerals. Calves were fed 28 d on the ranch in two pens of eight head per treatment before a simulated transport stress. After being loaded, hauled 129 km, unloaded with an overnight stand without feed and water, and reloaded, they were shipped to the Colorado State University (CSU) research feedyard in Fort Collins and placed in 64 individual pens. Calves fed the organic low level and inorganic high level trace minerals gained better (P<0.05) the first 28 d than did calves fed the organic high level or inorganic low level trace minerals. Overall growth performance was not influenced by trace mineral types or levels. Longissimus area was greater (P<0.05) for calves fed the low level organic trace minerals compared with that for calves fed the low level inorganic trace minerals. Eosinophils (d 28) were higher (P<0.05) for calves fed the organic high level trace minerals compared with calves fed inorganic low level trace minerals. Infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR) and parainfluenza (PI3) titers were not influenced by trace minerals. Red blood cells and packed cell volume were higher (P<0.05) for calves fed low level trace minerals regardless of trace mineral type. Liver Co was increased (P<0.05) at the 28-d sampling when inorganic trace minerals were fed. Liver Co was highest (P<0.05) at the 168- d sampling for calves fed low level inorganic trace minerals followed by calves fed organic high level trace minerals. Liver Fe was lower (P<0.05) in calves at the d-168 sampling when organic trace minerals were fed. Liver Zn was elevated (P<0.05) by d 28 by feeding the inorganic low level trace minerals, and by d-168, liver Zn was higher (P<0.05) for calves fed the low levels of trace minerals. Initial growth performance was maintained by either supplementing organic trace minerals or elevating dietary inorganic trace minerals when confronted with high dietary Fe, S, or Mo.
Reducing diffusion time in attitude diffusion models through agenda setting.

Attitude diffusion is when ``attitudes" (general, relatively enduring evaluative responses to a topic) spread through a population. Attitudes play an incredibly important role in human decision making and are a critical part of social psychology. However, existing models of diffusion do not account for key differentiating aspects of attitudes. We develop the ``Multi-Agent, Multi-Attitude" (MAMA) model which incorporates several of these key factors: (1) multiple, interacting attitudes; (2) social influence between individuals; and (3) media influence. All three components have strong support from the social science community. Using the MAMA model, we study influence maximization in a attitude diffusion setting where media influence is possible -- we show that strategic manipulation of the media can lead to statistically significant decreases in diffusion of attitudes.
Increased plasma renin activity in the spontaneously hypertensive rat.

SummaryPlasma renin activity increased after the development of hypertension in spontaneously hypertensive (SH) rats, while kidney renin content diminished. However, no difference could be detected in renin activity in renal venous blood of 8-12-week-old SH rats compared to normotensive Wistar rats.
Aortic obstructions in infants and children: Surgery for interrupted aortic arch

Abstract Interruption of the aortic arch, a severe form of congenital obstruction of the aorta, is highly lethal if not treated. Over the past four decades, many advances in surgical technique have resulted in markedly improved survival rates for this defect. The preoperative clinical condition of most patients can be improved by intensive medical management with mechanical ventilation, inotropic support, and prostaglandin infusion. In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in and success with complete primary repair in infancy as the technique of choice. Various forms of palliative operative techniques have fair to poor results. A two-stage approach, however, with initial arch repair accompanied by pulmonary artery banding, and a subsequent repair of the intracardiac lesion, can be performed in special circumstances. Recurrent stenosis at the aortic suture line can be treated by either reoperation or balloon angioplasty.
A Multi-Disciplinary Survey of Energy Maneuverability for Subsonic Endurance Based Aircraft

The energy maneuverability characteristics of long range, highly persistent aircraft are studied using two different approaches: the “skymap” (Mach vs. Altitude contour plot presentations), and a traditional method. Using NASA’s EDET and NPSS codes, this study looks at the influence of the wing and engine parameters on the aircraft performance envelope. The preliminary results demonstrate the strong positive correlation between the wingspan and three performance parameters: the specific endurance, the maximum sustained turning acceleration, and the specific energy of the turn. These results indicate that increasing wingspan benefits specific endurance and turning acceleration. The results warn that increasing span may decreased the ability of the aircraft to maintain its total energy content in a turn. The skymap grids provide a useful visual tool for the rapid analysis of aircraft performance when combined with traditional design studies.
Problems in preclinical safety evaluation of the new TCM external preparations for rheumatism,orthopedics and surgery

The problems in preclinical safety evaluation of the new TCM external preparations for rheumatism, orthopedics and surgery were analyzed. For the process of research and development, we explained what the researcher should pay attention to, such as acute toxicity, long-term toxicity and preparation safety of per cutem and per rectum preparations.
Cyclic adenosine monophosphate: relationship to calcium metabolism and renal lithiasis.

AbstractRecent concepts in calcium metabolism are being applied to the renal stone-forming patient. As our understanding of physiological mechanisms improves urinary cyclic nucleotide determinations are becoming useful in applied patient care. The changes in urinary cyclic adenosine monophosphate excretion as related to the different forms of hypercalciuria are reviewed
Human Tear Film Components Bind Pseudomonas Aeruginosa

Contact lens-induced Pseudomonas aeruginosa keratitis is one of the leading causes of vision-threatening corneal disease. To cause corneal infection in vivo, P aeruginosa must bind to and colonize the epithelial cell surface. Before interaction can occur with the epithelial cell surface, however, the pathogen must interact with several nonspecific ocular immune components that may help to prevent infection under normal conditions. The tear film contains enzymes such as lysozyme and lactoferrin that provide some amount of antibacterial action. The shearing forces of the blink wipe the ocular surface, enhance the flow of tears across the cornea, and may facilitate removal of pathogens from the eye. Finally, the innermost layer of the human tear film contains mucus, a glycoprotein gel, that improves the spread and stability of aqueous tears, as well as lubricates and protects the underlying corneal epithelium.1
Do 45% of College Students Lack Critical Thinking Skills? Revisiting a Central Conclusion of Academically Adrift

The educational literature, the popular press, and educated laypeople have all echoed a conclusion from the book Academically Adrift by Richard Arum and Josipa Roksa (which has now become received wisdom), namely, that 45% of college students showed no significant gains in critical thinking skills. Similar results were reported by Pascarella, Blaich, Martin, and Hanson after the publication of Arum and Roksa's book in 2011. However, these authors' statistical tests were conducted incorrectly, and therefore this 45% finding is fundamentally untrue. We demonstrate that a correct statistical analysis would have found that far fewer students show significant gains in critical thinking. However, this does not reflect on student learning; instead, it reflects on how hard it is to find a statistically significant result when assessing student change on a student-by-student basis. This article discusses valid methods for testing the significance of gain scores of individual students.
Cultural convergence 10 years later: A reexamination of intergroup bias among journalists in the digital media age

This study revisits Filak’s 2004 research of print and broadcast journalists to assess whether changes in the field have diminished the levels of intergroup bias for these groups. The findings here...
Developing sociopolitical consciousness of race and social class inequality in adolescents attending progressive and no excuses urban secondary schools

ABSTRACTSociopolitical consciousness refers to an individual’s ability to critically analyze the political, economic, and social forces shaping society and one’s status in it. A growing body of scholarship reports that high levels of sociopolitical consciousness are predictive in marginalized adolescents of a number of key outcomes including resilience and civic engagement. The present study explored the role that urban secondary schools can play in fostering adolescents’ sociopolitical consciousness through a longitudinal, mixed methods investigation of more than 400 adolescents attending “progressive” and “no excuses” charter high schools. Analyses revealed that, on average, students attending progressive high schools demonstrated sizeable shifts in their sociopolitical consciousness of racial inequality, and students attending no excuses high schools demonstrated sizeable shifts in their sociopolitical consciousness of social class inequality. Qualitative interviews with participating students offered ...
Stereochemistry- and concentration-dependent effects of phosphatidylserine enrichment on platelet function

Platelets are small (1-2μm in diameter), circulating anuclear cell fragments with important roles in hemostasis and thrombosis that provide an excellent platform for studying the role of membrane components in cellular communication. Platelets use several forms of communication including exocytosis of three distinct granule populations, formation of bioactive lipid mediators, and shape change (allowing for adhesion). This work explores the role of stereochemistry and concentration of exogenous phosphatidylserine (PS) on platelet exocytosis and adhesion. PS, most commonly found in the phosphatidyl-l-serine (l-PS) form, is exposed on the outer leaflet of the cell membrane after the platelet is activated. Knowledge about the impact of exogenous phosphatidylserine on cell-to-cell communication is limited (particularly concentration and stereochemistry effects). This study found that platelets incubated in l-PS or phosphatidyl-d-serine (d-PS) are enriched to the same extent with their respective incubated PS. All levels of l-PS enrichment also showed an increase in platelet cholesterol, but only the 50μM d-PS incubation showed an increase in cholesterol. The uptake of d-PS induced the secretion of granules and manufactured platelet activating factor (PAF) in otherwise unstimulated platelets. The uptake of l-PS had a greater impact on platelet stimulation by decreasing both the amount of δ-granule secretion and the amount of PAF that was manufactured.
MicroRNA-181a promotes docetaxel resistance in prostate cancer cells.

BACKGROUND Docetaxel is one of the primary drugs used for treating castration resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Unfortunately, over time patients invariably develop resistance to docetaxel therapy and their disease will continue to progress. The mechanisms by which resistance develops are still incompletely understood. This study seeks to determine the involvement of miRNAs, specifically miR-181a, in docetaxel resistance in CRPC. METHODS Real-time PCR was used to measure miR-181a expression in parental and docetaxel resistant C4-2B and DU145 cells (TaxR and DU145-DTXR). miR-181a expression was modulated in parental or docetaxel resistant cells by transfecting them with miR-181a mimics or antisense, respectively. Following transfection, cell number was determined after 48 h with or without docetaxel. Cross resistance to cabazitaxel induced by miR-181a was also determined. Western blots were used to determine ABCB1 protein expression and rhodamine assays used to assess activity. Phospho-p53 expression was assessed by Western blot and apoptosis was measured by ELISA in C4-2B TaxR and PC3 cells with inhibited or overexpressed miR-181a expression with or without docetaxel. RESULTS miR-181a is significantly overexpressed in TaxR and DU145-DTXR cells compared to parental cells. Overexpression of miR-181a in parental cells confers docetaxel and cabazitaxel resistance and knockdown of miR-181a in TaxR cells re-sensitizes them to treatment with both docetaxel and cabazitaxel. miR-181a was not observed to impact ABCB1 expression or activity, a protein which was previously demonstrated to be highly involved in docetaxel resistance. Knockdown of miR-181a in TaxR cells induced phospho-p53 expression. Furthermore, miR-181a knockdown alone induced apoptosis in TaxR cells which could be further enhanced by the addition of DTX. CONCLUSIONS Overexpression of mir-181a in prostate cancer cells contributes to their resistance to docetaxel and cabazitaxel and inhibition of mir-181a expression can restore treatment response. This is due, in part, to modulation of p53 phosphorylation and apoptosis.
405 Temporal relationship of cutaneous lupus erythematosus and systemic lupus erythematosus: a large, retrospective cohort study

Background and aims The proportion of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients with cutaneous manifestations is well characterised, but the proportion with only cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) who later develop SLE is poorly understood. A fuller understanding of comorbid intersections including temporal sequence may advance knowledge regarding underlying pathogenesis. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of CLE nested in U.S. administrative data (2004–2014), in order to understand frequency and temporality of comorbid SLE. Methods The datasource was Clinformatics Datamart Multiplan, a U.S. insurance claims database containing ˜100 million lives. The universe of adult CLE patients with ≥2 claims of ICD-9 695.4 (DLE) was first identified. Secondly, five mutually exclusive cohorts were defined by presence and temporality of SLE (defined as ≥2 claims of ICD-9 710.0 [SLE]): 1) CLE , no prior/subsequent SLE; 2) CLE before SLE; 3) SLE before CLE; 4) CLE and SLE, temporality unclear; 5) CLE with Results The universe contained 42 871 patients (Figure 1). Each cohort had >50 (range: 51.5–67.3) mean months of database observation time. Approximately one-third (27.4%) were “CLE only”, with no previous/subsequent SLE diagnosis (Cohort 1), while a further 10.3% had Conclusions About a third of CLE patients identified by DLE ICD-9 coding appeared to never develop SLE during observation time. Our “real world” study adds to sparse evidence on this topic.
LDPC Code Design for Half-Duplex Decode-and-Forward Relaying

We propose LDPC code designs for the half-duplex relay channel. Our designs mimic the information theoretic random coding scheme for decode-and-forward relaying. An important advantage of our scheme is that it is built entirely of single-user codes that can be decoded by belief propagation. The optimization of relay LDPC code profiles presents unique challenges, which are met by using the density evolution algorithm with additional constraints for relaying. To speed up our optimization, we use a Gaussian approximation of density evolution that converts the infinite dimensional code profile optimization into a simple linear programming problem. The thresholds of the discovered relay code profiles are within 0.4 dB of the achievable lower bound for decode-and-forward relaying.
Women and Creativity

The question has often been asked, “Why aren't there more women creators – artists, inventors, writers, scientists, entrepreneurs …?” After reading about the trials and blocks that many women had to overcome in order to create, and seeing the Faustian bargains they made to pursue their passion, one might conclude that a better question is, “How have there been so many?”
Action of aqueous alkali on pyrite

The effect of aqueous sodium hydroxide solutions on coal derived pyrites was investigated in a packed bed reactor. The ranges of the variables used in the investigation were: temperature from 250 420°P; particle size from 69 to 335 micron; concentration from 0-10%; particle Reynolds number from 15 75. The results of the study indicate that at the conditions used, the reaction is chemical reaction controlled with an apparent activation energy of 21 kcal/mole and a frequency factor of 1.45 X 10 /cm/sec. The reaction rate is linear in sodium hydroxide concentration. No significant trends are evident with variations in particle Reynolds number. Particle size variations gave results consistent with a porous par­ ticle shrinking core chemical reaction controlled model. The reaction products affect the rate of sulfur extraction causing a significant rate maximum to occur at low levels of product concentration in the liquid phase. Evidence suggests that a surface complex forms during the reaction, causing an induction period to be observed. Suggestions regarding the chemistry of the reaction are presented based upon experimental observations.
Interactions of Low-Energy Electrons with Condensed Matter: Relevance for Track Structure

Here we review the state of knowledge about the transport of subexcitation electrons in water. Longitudinal optical phonon and acoustical phonon interactions with an electron added to the system can give rise to an increase in the effective mass of the electron and to its damping. We generalize the pioneering treatment of thermalization given by Frolich and Platzman to apply to both long-range, polarization-type interactions, and as well to short-range interactions of low-energy electrons in water. When an electron is ejected from a molecule in condensed matter quantum interference may take place between the various excitation processes occuring in the medium. We have estimated the magnitude of this interference effect, together with the effect of Coulombic interactions on the thermalization of subexcitation electrons generated in the vicinity of a track of positive ions in water.
Influence of Thermal Properties on the Sensitivity of Thermal Wave Interferometry for the Characterization of Plasma-Sprayed Coatings

Thermal wave interferometry (TWI) is used as a means for measuring the thermal properties of plasma-sprayed coatings. The solution of the inverse problem is influenced by the magnitude of the signal-to-noise ratio and the amount of data available. This is investigated using a sensitivity analysis. The critical factors that determine the accuracy and the limitations of the technique are discussed. Numerical and experimental thermal wave tests confirm the range of applicability and the accuracy of TWI for measuring thermal properties.
Same Firm, Different Betas

Models of integrated asset markets predict that the debt and equity of the same firm have similar exposure to systematic risk. However, controlling for default probability, firms with a higher proportion of asset level systematic risk do not have commensurately higher spreads on either their vanilla bonds or synthetic bonds derived from option prices. More, the equity and debt of a firm do not share correlated factor exposures or expected returns as predicted in this class of models. In line with extent empirical asset pricing research, systematic risk proportion does explain credit spreads when estimated from a firm's bond returns. These results do not appear to be driven by differential exposure to volatility shocks and support a segmented markets approach to pricing a firm's securities.
Band Alignments of Ternary Wurtzite and Zincblende III-Nitrides Investigated by Hybrid Density Functional Theory

Band gaps and electron affinities of binary and ternary, wurtzite (wz-) and zincblende (zb-) III-nitrides are investigated using a unified hybrid density functional theory, and band offsets between...
The Model of Gamification Principles for Digital Health Interventions: Evaluation of Validity and Potential Utility

Background: Although gamification continues to be a popular approach to increase engagement, motivation, and adherence to behavioral interventions, empirical studies have rarely focused on this topic. There is a need to empirically evaluate gamification models to increase the understanding of how to integrate gamification into interventions. Objective: The model of gamification principles for digital health interventions proposes a set of five independent yet interrelated gamification principles. This study aimed to examine the validity and reliability of this model to inform its use in Web- and mobile-based apps. Methods: A total of 17 digital health interventions were selected from a curated website of mobile- and Web-based apps (PsyberGuide), which makes independent and unbiased ratings on various metrics. A total of 133 independent raters trained in gamification evaluation techniques were instructed to evaluate the apps and rate the degree to which gamification principles are present. Multiple ratings (n≥20) were collected for each of the five gamification principles within each app. Existing measures, including the PsyberGuide credibility score, mobile app rating scale (MARS), and the app store rating of each app were collected, and their relationship with the gamification principle scores was investigated. Results: Apps varied widely in the degree of gamification implemented (ie, the mean gamification rating ranged from 0.17≤m≤4.65 out of 5). Inter-rater reliability of gamification scores for each app was acceptable (κ≥0.5). There was no significant correlation between any of the five gamification principles and the PsyberGuide credibility score (P≥.49 in all cases). Three gamification principles (supporting player archetypes, feedback, and visibility) were significantly correlated with the MARS score, whereas three principles (meaningful purpose, meaningful choice, and supporting player archetypes) were significantly correlated with the app store rating. One gamification principle was statistically significant with both the MARS and the app store rating (supporting player archetypes). Conclusions: Overall, the results support the validity and potential utility of the model of gamification principles for digital health interventions. As expected, there was some overlap between several gamification principles and existing app measures (eg, MARS). However, the results indicate that the gamification principles are not redundant with existing measures and highlight the potential utility of a 5-factor gamification model structure in digital behavioral health interventions. These gamification principles may be used to improve user experience and enhance engagement with digital health programs.
Relationships among skeletal muscle, symptom burden, health care use, and survival in hospitalized patients with advanced cancer.

7006Background: Loss of skeletal muscle mass (quantity) is common in patients with advanced cancer, but little is known about muscle density (quality). Hospitalized patients with advanced cancer ar...
A Development-Driven Post WTO World

The unitarian project of the WTO has reached its limits: it has successfully achieved significant political economy convergence throughout the world, but the costs and adequacy of neoliberalism are now squarely challenged. More specifically, the dominant interpretation of WTO agreements that subordinates developmental issues to trade liberalization is problematic to developing countries. As the legal flexibilities for developmental policies at the WTO are limited and dwindling, developing countries are using de facto flexibilities. Moreover, developing countries, like their rich country counterparts, are seeking alternative trade agreements outside the WTO. What does that mean for the WTO system and international economic law more generally? Moving away from the unitarian ethos of the WTO, a pluralist order can create positive opportunities both at the WTO and outside of it to respond to pressures. However, to ensure a pluralist order is development friendly, such a regime must meet the core needs of the emerging economies for market access and policy diversity.
Short Distance Asymptotics of Ising Correlation

The short distance asymptotics of the Ising Model scaling functions are computed for the scaling functions that arise as continuum limits of lattice correlations from below the critical temperature.
Inactivation of Human Coronavirus by Titania Nanoparticle Coatings and UVC Radiation: Throwing Light on SARS-CoV-2.

The newly identified pathogenic human coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, led to an atypical pneumonia-like severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) outbreak called coronavirus disease 2019 (abbreviated as COVID-19). Currently, nearly 77 million cases have been confirmed worldwide with the highest numbers of COVID-19 cases in the United States. Individuals are getting vaccinated with recently approved vaccines, which are highly protective in suppressing COVID-19 symptoms but there will be a long way before the majority of individuals get vaccinated. In the meantime, safety precautions and effective disease control strategies appear to be vital for preventing the virus spread in public places. Due to the longevity of the virus on smooth surfaces, photocatalytic properties of “self-disinfecting/cleaning” surfaces appear to be a promising tool to help guide disinfection policies for controlling SARS-CoV-2 spread in high-traffic areas such as hospitals, grocery stores, airports, schools, and stadiums. Here, we explored the photocatalytic properties of nanosized TiO2 (TNPs) as induced by the UV radiation, towards virus deactivation. Our preliminary results using a close genetic relative of SAR-CoV-2, HCoV-NL63, showed the virucidal efficacy of photoactive TNPs deposited on glass coverslips, as examined by quantitative RT-qPCR and virus infectivity assays. Efforts to extrapolate the underlying concepts described in this study to SARS-CoV-2 are currently underway.
Adult Philadelphia-like B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia: Characteristics, outcomes, and role of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation in comparison to Philadelphia-positive and Philadelphia-negative acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

7022Background: Philadelphia-like Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (Ph-like ALL) is a high-risk subset of adult ALL. Until recently, there has not been a systematic platform to recognize this entity in...
Moisture-Density-Strength-Energy Relationships for Gyratory Compacted Geomaterials

Laboratory Proctor and vibratory table compaction tests are commonly used to determine moisture-density-compaction energy relationships for soils and are typically limited to one or two compaction energy curves. They do not, however, provide shear strength or stiffness parameters that are commonly used in design and with performance-based specifications. In this study, a gyratory compactor equipped with a pressure distribution analyzer (PDA) was used to rapidly develop moisture-density-shear resistance-compaction energy relationships. Because the PDA equipment involves sensors, data acquisition, and interpretation, repeatability and reproducibility tests were conducted and evaluated using two-way analysis of variance. A wide range of geomaterials was tested: silica sand, crushed limestone sub-base, recycled pavement materials sub-base, and coal combustion products. Comparisons between the gyratory PDA test and conventional laboratory compaction tests and factors affecting the moisture-density-strength-energy relationships were discussed.
Formulation of Mathematical Problems

With a specific reaction-diffusion system at hand, one generally wishes either to find a solution satisfying certain subsidiary conditions, or to determine certain qualitative properties shared by many solutions. The various possibilities here generate a variety of mathematical problems, the most important of which are described in this chapter.
On approximately optimal H/sup infinity / controllers for distributed systems

The structure of all approximately optimal H/sup infinity / controllers for stable distributed plants with rational weights is elucidated. The finite- and infinite-dimensional parts of these H/sup infinity / controllers are identified. It is shown that one can obtain a finite-dimensional approximately optimal controller by appropriately approximating the infinite-dimensional part of the optimal controller. Also, it is possible to find certain bounds on the deviation from optimal performance using this procedure. >
Toward an Expanded "Canon" of Negotiation Theory: Identity, Ideological, and Values-Based Conflict and the Need for a New Heuristic

Beginning in the summer of 2003, as part of the “Broad Field Project” in conflict resolution directed by Christopher Honeyman, and in collaboration with Professor Andrea Schneider of the Marquette University Law School, an effort was made to elucidate a universal (or near universal) and interdisciplinary “canon of negotiation.” More specifically, the point was to go beyond the existing “common core of negotiation”—topics or concepts readily agreed to be part of any negotiation curriculum, training module, or (indeed) theory—and see if, twenty-five years after Fisher and Ury’s Getting to Yes and Raiffa’s The Art and Science of Negotiation (and forty years after Walton and McKersie’s A Behavioral Theory of Labor Negotiations), the influx of new disciplines and the expanded sensibilities of “conflict resolution” as it relates to negotiation have made any new topics or concepts centrally part of a more comprehensive common core. The results of this
Abstract 4222: Targeting PI3K and mTOR with BEZ235, a dual inhibitor, is efficacious in trastuzumab refractory and HER2+/PIK3CA-mutated breast cancer models

Background: PI3K pathway activation is a common event in HER2+ breast cancer (BC) either through inactivation of the tumor suppressor gene, PTEN, or activation of PIK3CA. This PIK3CA mutation leads to an oncogenic activity of the PI3K pathway and contributes to therapeutic resistance to trastuzumab (T). The PI3K pathway inhibitor is therefore an attractive drug for HER2+ BC, especially in T-resistant and PIK3CA mutated conditions. Methodology: Here we have studied the in vitro and in vivo effects of BEZ235 in HER2+/T-sensitive (BT474), HER2+/T-resistant (BT474HerR) and HER2+/PIK3CA (HCC1954) mutated models. We assessed in vitro anti-proliferative and activation status of the PI3K-AKT-mTOR signaling pathway following BEZ235 treatment in HER2+ BC cell lines. We next evaluated the impact of BEZ235 on tumor growth and angiogenesis using xenograft models. Results: 1) BEZ235 inhibited downstream activation of the PI3K signaling pathway effectors, p-AKT (Ser473, The308), p-P70S6K, p-S6RP and p-4EBP1, 2) the anti-proliferative activity of BEZ235 was observed by 3D-ON-TOP clonogenic assay, 3) consistent with anti-proliferative effects of BEZ235, the proportion of cells in the G1 phase of the cell cycle increased in all three cell lines with a concomitant decrease in the S phase of their treatment with BEZ235, 4) the initiation of apoptotic activity (annexin V) of BEZ235 was significantly superior to that of RAD001, an allosteric inhibitor of mTOR, and 5) in the HER2+/T-sensitive, HER2+/T-resistant and HER2+/PIK3CA mutated BC xenograft models, BEZ235 inhibited PI3K signaling and had potent anti-tumor activity. Along with its anti-tumor effect, BEZ235 effectively decreased tumor angiogenesis (tumor micro-vessel density via CD31 staining). These inhibitions were more pronounced when BEZ235 was combined with T. Conclusions: BEZ235 inhibits the PI3K-AKT-mTOR signaling pathway and results in anti-proliferative and anti-tumor activity in HER2+ breast cancer cells with both wild type and mutated PIK3CA. Citation Format: Casey Williams, Yuliang Sun, Jennifer Carlson, Brian Leyland-Jones, Nandini Dey, Pradip De. Targeting PI3K and mTOR with BEZ235, a dual inhibitor, is efficacious in trastuzumab refractory and HER2+/ PIK3CA- mutated breast cancer models. [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 4222. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-4222
Type-specific stimulation of adenylylcyclase by protein kinase C.

Ca(2+)-stimulable (type I), Ca(2+)-insensitive (type II), and Ca(2+)-inhibitable adenylylcyclase (type VI) were transiently expressed in the human embryonic kidney 293 cell line. Phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate (PDBu) increased cAMP synthesis by the Ca(2+)-insensitive type II adenylylcyclase more than 9-fold within 10 min, while the treatment had no effect on the other two types of adenylylcyclases. This stimulatory effect of PDBu on type II activity was dose-dependent and synergistic with the effect of forskolin. Another phorbol ester, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), had a similar stimulatory effect on type II activity, while its inactive isomer, 4 alpha-phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (4 alpha-PMA), had no effect. Staurosporine, a potent protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor, markedly attenuated the action of PDBu on cAMP synthesis by type II adenylylcyclase. These results are particularly significant in that they indicate that a species of adenylylcyclase that is insensitive to regulation by one arm of the phosphatidylinositide pathway, i.e. Ca2+, nevertheless can be regulated by the other arm, i.e. PKC.
The Impact of Image Choices on the Usability and Security of Click Based Graphical Passwords

Click based graphical password systems, such as PassPoint [1], have received much attention in recent years. In this paper we describe our recent user studies on click based graphical passwords. Results from the user study showed a relationship among usability, security and the image choice for the graphical password. We further conducted an analysis on attacking methods for click based graphical passwords. The study highlights the vulnerability of click based graphical password, and enhances our understanding on the usability and security of graphical passwords. We also discuss a number of techniques to improve the usability and security of click based graphical password.
Fast Parallel and Sequential Algorithms for Edge-Coloring Planar Graphs

Vizing [21,22,8] proved that any graph G of maximal degree Δ(G) is either Δ or Δ + 1 colorable. For edge-coloring of planar graphs, he showed that all graphs G with Δ(G) ≥ 8 are Δ-colorable. Based on the proof of Vizing's theorem Gabow et al. [10] designed an O(n 2) algorithm for Δ-coloring planar graphs when Δ(G) ≥ 8. Boyar and Karloff [2] proved that this problem belongs to NC if Δ(G) ≥ 23. Their algorithm runs in time O(log3 n) and uses O(n 2) processors on a CRCW PRAM.
CORR Insights®: Implant Design Variations in Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty Influence the Required Deltoid Force and Resultant Joint Load

R everse shoulder arthroplasty has become an important and powerful tool in the treatment of a variety of severe shoulder pathologies, including rotator cuff arthropathy, complex proximal humeral fractures, and failed anatomic arthroplasties. With increased widespread use, numerous studies have been performed on how changes in its basic components affect the biomechanics and function of the implant. It is clear from several biomechanical studies [2–6] that placement of a reverse total shoulder arthroplasty lowers and medializes the center of rotation of the glenohumeral joint in comparision to the normal anatomic center of rotation. This effectively improves the deltoid moment arm reducing the overall loads to abduct the arm. It also reduces the rotator cuff moment arms, placing the posterior rotator cuff at a disadvantage and subsequently limiting some of the ability for external rotation. With any new technology, however, there exists complications, and the reverse shoulder arthroplasty is not free from this issue. Complications of particular concern include scapular notching, limited ROM, acromial stress fractures, deltoid overtensioning, and dislocation. Several techniques that have been used to reduce common complications associated with reverse shoulder arthroplasty (instability, scapular notching and reduced external rotation motion and strength) include glenosphere lateralization, humeral lateralization, and humeral lengthening. It is currently unclear which of these options is the best strategy to limit these problems without incurring further negative consequences like increased deltoid force for abduction. Excessive deltoid loads can lead to deltoid related pain, acromial stress fractures, and potentially early functional decline due to deltoid senescence. The current study by Giles and colleagues further defines the overall effects of changes in implant variables This CORR Insights is a commentary on the article ‘‘Implant Design Variations in Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty Influence the Required Deltoid Force and Resultant Joint Load’’ by Giles and colleagues available at: DOI: 10.1007/ s11999-015-4526-0. The author certifies that he, or any member of his immediate family, has no funding or commercial associations (eg, consultancies, stock ownership, equity interest, patent/ licensing arrangements, etc.) that might pose a conflict of interest in connection with the submitted article. All ICMJE Conflict of Interest Forms for authors and Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research editors and board members are on file with the publication and can be viewed on request. The opinions expressed are those of the writers, and do not reflect the opinion or policy of CORR or The Association of Bone and Joint Surgeons. This CORR Insights comment refers to the article available at DOI: 10.1007/s11999015-4526-0.
A Unified Framework for Indexing in Database Systems

Several types of data organizations have been proposed in the literature for object-oriented and relational databases. In studying these organizations, there appears to be no underlying common basis on which they can be compared. Many of these organizations impose restrictions on their applicability that seem unnecessary or ad-hoc. We present a unified framework for physical database storage. We show that most existing data organizations follow naturally as special cases of this framework. Furthermore, this framework permits the specification of new types of data organization that have not been proposed or that cannot be described in existing systems, yet appear to be useful.
Evidence for nonperturbative string symmetries

String theory appears to admit a group of discrete field transformations — calledS dualities — as exact nonperturbative quantum symmetries. Mathematically, they are rather analogous to the better-knownT duality symmetries, which hold perturbatively. In this Letter the evidence forS duality is reviewed and some speculations are presented.
Barcelona BC 569 and a Carolingian programme on the virtues

The Frankish noblewoman Dhuoda composed the Liber manualis for her son, William. It survives in only one complete manuscript copy, found in Barcelona's Biblioteca de Catalunya, Ms 569. Pierre Riche argued that the Barcelona copy descended from William's own. This article points out evidence suggesting that the other texts in the manuscript (save one later addition) may derive from early medieval exemplars as well, providing the opportunity to see what kinds of texts made up a lay nobleman's library in the mid-ninth century.
A finite difference method for modeling the formation of animal coat patterns

Abstract We consider a nonlinear reaction–diffusion system for the formation of animal coat patterns proposed by J.D. Murray. We approximate the nonlinear partial differential equations by an extension of the Peaceman–Rachford finite difference method for linear equations. We then run experiments where we execute our method until steady-state is reached to obtain a variety of animal coat patterns.
A collision-free MAC protocol for optical star LANs

A new multiple access protocol is developed for optical local area networks based on a passive star topology. The protocol uses wavelength division multiplexing (WDM), and combines the advantages of both random-access and scheduled-access sharing schemes, e.g., fixed pre-assigned TDMA and WDM, into a protocol that is highly bandwidth-efficient. No central control is required among users, and the amount of processing required by each station is small. Time is divided in fixed-sized slots. Before transmitting its data, a station must compete with others for the right to use a slot in a pre-assigned wavelength, using a collision-free procedure. This results in a protocol that is suitable for networks where the number of users is larger than the number of available channels. The scheme can operate with at least a single tunable transmitter/receiver pair in each station. The paper includes an analysis of the maximum throughput and delay characteristics of the presented scheme. Several models are also developed and compared to the results obtained from numerous simulations.
Cardiopulmonary exercise testing in congestive heart failure

Cardiopulmonary exercise testing includes the monitoring of respiratory gases and airflow to determine oxygen uptake, carbon dioxide (CO2) production, respiratory rate, tidal volume, and minute ventilation during a graded maximal exercise test. A plateau in oxygen uptake, which occurs despite an increase in work load, and which is termed maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max), correlates with the maximal exercise cardiac output and can therefore be used to grade the severity of heart failure. The anaerobic threshold occurs at 60 to 70% of VO2 max and is another indicator of the severity of heart failure and, when attained, indicates that the patient is close to performing a maximal test. We have found VO2 max and anaerobic threshold to be objective measures of efficacy of both investigational and noninvestigational therapy in patients with heart failure. A pulmonary limitation to exercise can be identified by the failure to attain anaerobic threshold or VO2 max, as well as exhaustion of the ventilatory reserve, as estimated by maximal voluntary ventilation. Thus, cardiopulmonary exercise testing can be used to (1) grade the severity of heart failure, (2) objectively follow the response to therapy, and (3) differentiate a cardiac from a pulmonary limitation to exercise.
Cell Transit Analysis of Ligand-Induced Stiffening of Polymorphonuclear Leukocytes

Abstract A mathematical treatment of the mechanical behavior of transiently bonded polymer networks is used to interpret measurements of the pressure-induced passage of pliant cells through microporous membranes. Cell transit times are inferred to be proportional to the instantaneous shear modulus of the cell cortex, a parameter that we then relate to properties of the cortical F-actin matrix. These theoretical results are used to analyze published data on chemoattractant-induced changes of rigidity of polymorphonuclear leukocytes. We thereby rationalize previously noted, peculiar, power-law logarithmic dependences of transit time on ligand concentration. As a consequence, we are able to deduce a linear relationship between the extent of F-actin polymerization and the logarithm of the chemoattractant concentration. The latter is examined with regard to the G-protein activation that is known to occur when chemoattractants bind to receptors on the surfaces of polymorphonuclear cells.
Comparison of Heterogeneous Catalyst Activities in Various Reactor Types and Reaction Conditions

A comprehensive reactor analysis package is provided that will enable more accurate comparison of catalyst activity in various reactor types and reaction conditions. Conservation of mass was applied to formulate the performance equations for catalytic batch, plug flow, continuous stirred tank, and pulse reactors. The weight hourly space velocity was correlated with the conversion and the reaction rate in many integral forms. The apparent reaction rate constant can be obtained from kinetic data for each reactor type.
Effect of the number of lymph nodes sampled on postoperative survival of lymph node-negative esophageal cancer.

BACKGROUND The presence of lymph node (LN) metastases in esophageal cancer has important prognostic and treatment implications. However, the optimal number of LNs that should be examined for accurate staging is controversial. In the current study, the association between survival and the number of LNs evaluated was examined in patients who underwent resection of lymph node-negative (American Joint Committee on Cancer [AJCC] TNM stage I-IIA) esophageal cancer. METHODS All patients were identified who underwent surgery for lymph node-negative esophageal cancer between 1988 and 2003 from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results cancer registry. Patients were classified into 3 groups by the number of negative LNs sampled during surgery (≤10 LNs, 11-17 LNs, and ≥18 LNs). Esophageal cancer-specific survival was compared among these LN groups using Kaplan-Meier curves. Stratified and Cox regression analyses were used to evaluate the association between survival and the number of negative LNs after adjusting for potential confounders. RESULTS A total of 972 patients were included in the study. Disease-specific survival rates increased with a higher number of negative LNs. The 5-year disease-specific survival rate was 55% among patients with ≤10 negative LNs, compared with 66% and 75%, respectively, for those with 11 to 17 negative LNs and ≥18 negative LNs. The number of negative LNs was found to be significantly associated with survival in analyses stratified by tumor status. On multivariate regression controlling for age, race/ethnicity, sex, histology, tumor status, and postoperative radiotherapy, a higher number of negative LNs was found to be independently associated with higher disease-specific survival. CONCLUSIONS The presence of LN metastases in patients with esophageal cancer appears to have important prognostic and treatment implications. Data from the current study suggest that patients undergoing surgical resection for esophageal cancer should have at least 18 LNs removed. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Acid rain effects on soil and aquatic microbial processes

Effets sur les micro-organismes du sol et les processus microbiens. Decomposition de la matiere organique. Transformations de l'azote. Enzymes du sol. Degradation de pesticides. Action sur les micro-organismes aquatiques. Lacs et cours d'eau acides
Long-term Followup of and Patient Satisfaction With the Dynaflex Self-Contained Inflatable Penile Prosthesis

AbstractPurpose: We analyzed our experience with the Dynaflex* *American Medical Systems, Minnetonka, Minnesota. self-contained inflatable penile prosthesis to define specific complication rates and patient satisfaction in the long term.Materials and Methods: From October 1990 through October 1994, 62 men underwent implantation of a Dynaflex prosthesis. Mean and median time since implantation was 50 and 53 months, respectively (minimum 24). In addition to standard followup and tabulation of complications, patients were contacted and interviewed regarding satisfaction with the prosthesis.Results: Mechanical device failures occurred in 9.7% of cases with a mean time to failure of 40 months in 6 prostheses. An additional 16.1% of patients had an unsuccessful outcome due to dissatisfaction with the Dynaflex. Of the patients with a functional Dynaflex prosthesis contacted at the time of this review 88.1% expressed satisfaction.Conclusions: Mechanical failure rates for the Dynaflex prosthesis are comparable to ...