cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Role of indacaterol, a once-daily bronchodilator, in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by progressive airflow obstruction that can lead to lung destruction and dyspnea. Although there has been a slight reduction in mortality in recent decades, COPD is still a serious health problem that has enormous costs and utilizes significant medical resources. There have been a number of pharmacologic interventions that have been developed for the treatment of COPD. Current guidelines recommend the use of long-acting bronchodilators for the treatment of moderate and severe stage COPD, since they have been shown to improve lung function, respiratory symptoms, and quality of life. Indacaterol is a once-daily beta2-agonist (β2-agonist) delivered by a single-dose dry powder inhaler used for the treatment of COPD. It is currently approved at a dose of 75 μg in the United States and a dose of 150 μg with a maximal dose of 300 μg in Europe and other countries. Several studies show that indacaterol was statistically superior to both long-acting β2-agonist, formoterol and salmeterol, as well as, noninferior to tiotropium. Indacaterol is generally well tolerated and has a good safety profile. Other studies show that there is an additive bronchodilator response with the addition of indacaterol to tiotropium, which would provide a once-daily treatment option for patient with moderate to severe COPD. This review discusses the pharmacokinetic, comparative efficacy and safety data for indacaterol.
Ontogenetic shifts in habitat use by the endangered Roanoke logperch (Percina rex)

SUMMARY 1. Conservation of the federally endangered Roanoke logperch (Percina rex, Jordan and Evermann) necessitates protection of habitat that is critical for all age classes. We examined habitat use patterns of individual logperch to determine: (1) if age classes of logperch in the Nottoway and Roanoke Rivers exhibit habitat selectivity, (2) if age classes differ in habitat use, and (3) if ontogenetic patterns of habitat use differ between the Roanoke and Nottoway river populations. 2. In the summers of 2000 and 2001, we observed 17 young-of-year (YOY) logperch [ 8 cm TL) in the upper Roanoke River, and 40 subadult and 39 adult logperch in the Nottoway River, Virginia. 3. All size classes of Roanoke logperch demonstrated habitat selectivity and logperch used a wide range of habitats in the Roanoke and Nottoway rivers during ontogeny. Habitat use by logperch varied among age classes and between rivers. 4. In the Roanoke River, adult and subadult logperch primarily preferred run and riffle habitat, often over gravel substrate. Subadults were found in lower water velocities and slightly more embedded microhabitats than adults. YOY logperch were found in shallow, stagnant backwaters and secondary channels. In the Nottoway River, both adult and subadult logperch were found over sand and gravel in deep, low-velocity pools and runs. Subadults were observed in slightly more silted, lower velocity habitat than adults. Shifts in habitat use were more distinct between age classes in the Roanoke River than the Nottoway River. 5. Successful conservation of this species will involve sound understanding of spatial variation in habitat use over logperch life history and preservation of the ecological processes that preserve required habitat mosaics.
Analysis of high-impedance fault generated signals using a Kalman filtering approach

High-impedance faults are accompanied by variations in the 60 Hz and harmonic components. An approach that accounts for the time-varying nature of the fundamental and harmonic components is developed. This approach is based on Kalman-filtering theory to obtain the best estimation of the time variations of the fundamental and harmonic components. Four actual recorded data sets for staged arcing fault on different types of soil are investigated by the proposed Kalman-filtering technique. The time variations of fundamental and low-order harmonic components significantly contribute to high-impedance fault detection using the features presented. >
c-Abl tyrosine kinase regulates cardiac growth and development

The c-Abl protein is a ubiquitously expressed nonreceptor tyrosine kinase involved in the development and function of many mammalian organ systems, including the immune system and bone. Here we show that homozygous Abl mutant embryos and newborns on the C57BL/6J background, but not on other backgrounds, display dramatically enlarged hearts and die perinatally. The heart defects can be largely rescued by cardiomyocyte-specific restoration of the full-length c-Abl protein. The cardiac hyperplasia phenotype is not caused by decreased apoptosis, but rather by abnormally increased cardiomyocyte proliferation during later stages of embryogenesis. Genes involved in cardiac stress and remodeling and cell cycle regulation are also up-regulated in the mutant hearts. These findings reveal an essential role for c-Abl in mammalian heart growth and development.
Samarium for osteoblastic bone metastases and osteosarcoma

Samarium-153 lexidronam (153Sm-EDTMP) is FDA approved for painful osteoblastic bone metastases that image on bone scan. 153Sm-EDTMP decay has a therapeutic β-emission and a γ-photon for bone scan i...
Effects of pneumoperitoneum on hemodynamic and systemic immunologic responses to peritonitis in pigs.

Background. Experimental evidence supporting the safety of laparoscopic intervention during sepsis is limited. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of pneumoperitoneum on immunologic and hemodynamic responses to peritoneal sepsis. Materials and methods. A porcine model of peritonitis was created using an intraperitoneal autologous fecal inoculum. Pigs were then subjected to one of four procedures 24 h postinoculation (n = 6 per group): laparotomy, CO2 laparoscopy, helium laparoscopy, and anesthesia only (1.5% isoflurane in 100% O2, mechanical ventilation). Venous blood samples were obtained prior to inoculation, and at 24 (prior to procedure), 30, 48, 72, and 96 h postinoculation to determine white blood count (WBC) with differential, C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor, and bacteremia. Heart rate, end-tidal CO2 (ETCO2), mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), and arterial blood gas variables were also measured at baseline and every 30 min throughout the procedure. Results. Postoperative blood cultures confirmed systemic bacteremia in all groups at all time periods postinoculation. Following inoculation, WBC, band cell count, and CRP remained elevated above baseline in all groups throughout the study (P < 0.01). However, no significant differences in these parameters were observed among groups. In the CO2 laparoscopy group, MAP, ETCO2, and arterial pCO2 were increased above baseline, while pH was decreased throughout the procedure (P < 0.01). Conclusion. In this animal model of peritonitis, CO2 pneumoperitoneum induced hypercapnia, acidemia, and systemic hypertension intraoperatively, without a discernable effect on systemic immune function.
Morphometric Analysis of Intraspecific Shape Variation in Male and Female Genitalia of Phyllophaga hirticula (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Melolonthinae)

The diversity of male genitalia observed among many disparate arthropod taxa has stimulated a number of studies investigating which evolutionary factors contribute to this phenomenon. Much of this research, however, is focused on testing patterns of selection on male genitalia only. Because copulatory processes are a joint act between males and females, detailed study of the selection pressures on female morphology seems equally appropriate. In the current analysis, I used geometric morphometrics to quantify intraspecific shape variation of male and female genitalia in the scarab beetle species Phyllophaga hirticula (Knoch). Characters under sexual selection are predicted to be more phenotypically variable than nonsexual characters because of the persistent tendency of sexual selection to eliminate bouts of stabilizing selection. Thus, this analysis tested whether phenotypic variation of male and female genitalia is equivalently higher than shape variation of a nonsexual character, the right elytron. Shape variation was analyzed in SHAPE, a program that transforms two-dimensional outline data into elliptic Fourier descriptors to be analyzed in a principal components analysis. Data from this study supported the hypothesis that male and female genitalia were significantly more variable than the right elytron. In addition, P. hirticula female genitalia were significantly more variable than male genitalia. Comparable phenotypic variation of male and female genitalia suggests that like male genitalia, female genitalia also may be subject to sexual selection and should be considered when testing hypotheses of genitalic evolution.
Current Landscape of Hierarchical QSAR Modeling and its Applications: Some Comments on the Importance of Mathematical Descriptors as well as Rigorous Statistical Methods of Model Building and Validation

Abstract Mathematical chemistry or more accurately discrete mathematical chemistry had a tremendous growth spurt in the second half of the twentieth century and the same trend is continuing in the twenty first century. This continual growth was fueled primarily by two major factors: 1) Novel applications of discrete mathematical concepts to chemical and biological systems, and 2) Availability of high speed computers and relevant software whereby hypothesis driven as well as discovery oriented research on large data sets could be carried out. This led to the development of not only a plethora of new concepts, but also to various useful applications. This chapter will discuss the major milestones in the development of hierarchical QSARs for the prediction of physical as well as biological properties of various classes of chemicals by the Basak group of researchers using mathematical descriptors and different statistical methods.
Anomalous properties of sub-10-nm magnetic tunneling junctions

Magnetic logic devices have advantages of non-volatility, radiation hardness, scalability down to the sub-5-nm range, and three-dimensional (3D) integration capability. Despite these advantages, nanomagnetic applications for information processing are limited today. The main stumbling block is the inadequately high energy required to switch information states in the spin-based nanodevices. Recently, the spin-transfer torque (STT) effect has been introduced as a promising solution [1-2]. In STT magnetic tunneling junctions (MTJs), using a spin-polarized electric current to switch magnetic states has the potential to solve the energy problem. However, the switching current density on the order of 1 MA/cm2 in the current STT-MTJ devices, with the smallest reported to date characteristic cross-sectional size on the order of 10 nm, still remains inadequately high for enabling a wide range of information processing applications [3-4]. For the technology to be competitive in the near future, it is critical to show that it could be favorably scaled into the sub-10-nm range. On a positive note, due to a new physics in this previously poorly explored size range, nanomagnetic devices may display promising characteristics that can make them superior to their semiconductor counterparts. In this size range, the underlying spin physics is due to the surface as much as it is due the volume. As a result, the effective thermal reservoir that absorbs spin excitations is substantially reduced, which in turn leads to a reduced spin damping and consequently to a reduced switching current density. Hence, the current study to understand the junction size dependence of the spin switching current is timely. This paper presents the key results of this study.
Seizing Electronic Evidence from Cloud Computing Environments

Despite a growing adoption of cloud computing, law enforcement and the judicial system are unprepared to prosecute cloud-based crimes. This chapter illuminates legal problems in the United States for electronic discovery and digital forensics arising from cloud computing and argues that cloud computing challenges the process and product of electronic discovery. The researchers investigate how to obtain forensic evidence from cloud computing using the legal process by surveying the existing statues and recent cases applicable to cloud forensics. A hypothetical case study of child pornography being hosted in the Cloud illustrates the difficulty in acquiring evidence for cloud-related crimes. For the first time, a sample search warrant is presented that could be used in this case study, and which provides sample language for agents and prosecutors who wish to obtain a warrant authorizing the search and seizure of data from cloud computing environments. The chapter concludes by taking a contrasting view and discusses how defense attorneys might be able to challenge cloud-derived evidence in court.
Sonographic characteristics of locoregional lymph nodes that can predict the presence of metastatic carcinoma by endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration in patients with carcinomas of the esophagus/gastroesophageal junction

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and EUS-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) of lymph nodes (LN) are used for preoperative staging of patients with esophageal/gastroesophageal junction (E/GEJ) carcinomas. The recognition of sonographic features of LN can be variable in selecting LN for EUS-FNA. We evaluated the predictive value of sonographic features of LNs that correlate with the presence of metastatic carcinoma by EUS-FNA. Patients with GIPB who underwent EUS/EUS-FNA for the preoperative staging of LNs over 29 months were studied. The EUS features including size, shape, borders, and echogenicity along with primary tumor stage were evaluated/correlated with the EUS-FNA result to determine features that predict positive EUS-FNA results. 86 LNs from 74 patients with E/GEJ carcinomas were studied. FNA yielded a positive/suspicious for carcinoma diagnosis in 42 cases and a negative result in 44 cases. The sonographic features of the LNs with and without metastatic carcinoma were average short axis measurement (1.02 vs 0.73), average long axis measurement (1.413 vs 1.348), average long:short axis ratio (1.45 vs 1.2), hypoechoic cortex (97.6 vs 72.8 %), round shape (71.4 vs 29.5 %), and well-circumscribed borders (40.5 vs 31.8 %). The features most strongly predictive of a positive result were short axis (p = 0.006), hypoechoic cortex (p = 0.01), and round shape (p = 0.0005) on univariate analysis. High-primary tumor stage (T3 and T4, p = 0.07 and p = 0.27, respectively) did not predict metastatic carcinoma on EUS-FNA. On multivariate analysis, short axis measurement alone was strongly predictive of a positive EUS-FNA (p = 0.04). Sonographic features of LNs including size, shape, echogenicity, and border characteristics can be useful in the selection of pertinent LNs for EUS-FNA sampling in preoperative staging of E/GEJ malignancies based on their ability to predict the presence of metastatic carcinoma. While hypoechoic cortex, round shape, and short axis measurement were independent factors that strongly predicted the presence of metastatic carcinoma on EUS-FNA, short axis alone was strongly predictive of metastatic carcinoma on multivariate analysis.
Avoidance of Parasitic Shear in Plane Element

A method for avoiding parasitic shear in displacement-based finite elements is proposed. Internal degrees-of-freedom are not required, and the resulting element is valid whether rectangular or of general quadrilateral shape. The element is improved by adding internal degrees-of-freedom, but it is questionable whether the improvement is worth the added computational expense. The new elements may be immediately adapted to the analysis of solids of revolution. Computational test has shown that the new elements, with or without internal degrees-of-freedom, pass the patch test in axisymmetric problems. The test cases considered were radial loads on a disk of constant thickness and axial loads on a cylinder of constant thickness. Non-rectangular elements were used in both cases. The proposed method of formulation might similarly benefit the eight-node linear isoparametric solid element. As there are many ways to divide a hexahedron into component tetrahedra, the crudest acceptable division must be sought in order to achieve computational efficiency.
Multiphoton Ionization Probability and Nonlinear Absorption of Light by Transparent Solids

The multiphoton ionization probability has been calculated as functions of wavelength and electric field intensity for a number of semiconductors and insulators using three different theoretical models. Although there is a large amount of disagreement among available experimental data, the values of two-photon absorption coefficients calculated by Keldysh treatment come closest, while the Basov formula over-estimates and the Braunstein formula underestimates. Surprisingly, Keldysh formula also predicts the absolute values and the wavelength dependence of the one-photon absorption coefficient (absorption edge) extremely well for direct gap semiconductors.
Noise and spectral properties of GaAlAs broadband sources

Recently there has been considerable interest in the use of broadband lasers in fiber-optic gyroscopes.1 These sources significantly reduce the coherent Rayleigh backscattering noise by virtue of their short coherence length (typically <50 μm). In this paper the intensity and frequency stability of this type of device is investigated in the low-frequency regime. The coherence length of these devices has been measured using a Michelson interferometer.
The general revenue sharing complaint function: An examination and possible implications

The General Revenue Sharing (GRS) legislation has been considered significant for several reasons.1 Primarily, it has been deemed an important mechanism for shifting power from the national government to the states and their local governments; decentralization was to be achieved by distributing funds to state and local governments with few regulations or "strings" attached. It has generally been accepted or assumed that GRS has had this intended effect and considerable research has proceeded based on this assumption.2 Given its intended "no-strings" nature, the implementation of GRS and recipient governments' accountability to its ostensibly minimal provisions have also been of interest to observers.3 However, relatively little systematic research attention has been given to the GRS complaint function. It is this dimension which will be the focus of this article.
Some Requisites in Systems Leading to Hybrid Formation between Bacterial Endotoxins

in the original mixture [3]. Attempts to hybridize endotoxins with nontoxic acid-hydrolyzed haptenic polysaccharide of endotoxin or with native protoplasmic polysaccharide, both of which are single-chain structures, were unsuccessful [3]. Therefore, it was postulated that only endotoxins could be induced to hybridize with endotoxins in this system [3]; as a corollary to this, it was thought that all endotoxins should be able to hybridize with each other.
Host Specificity and Biology of Galeruca rufa , a Potential Biological Control Agent for Field Bindweed

Galeruca rufa Germar is a European chrysomelid that defoliates Convolvulus arvensis L. In southern Italy it undergoes 2–3 generations/year from March to September. In the laboratory development from egg to adult takes approximately 37 days. From host specificity tests it appears that G. rufa feeds only on species In the genera Convolvulus and Calystegia . When scored for effectiveness, G. rufa seems to have potential as a biocontrol agent for Convolvulus arvensis .
Recycling chlorine from hydrogen chloride: A new and economical electrolytic process

In the chemical industry, chlorine is one of the most widely used chemicals. The chlorine molecule is often used as a modifier or as an aid to manufacture other chemicals. Oftentimes, some or all of the chlorine used is reduced to hydrogen chloride, a waste byproduct.
Temporal aspects of sperm transfer and spermatophore condition in Mexican rice borers (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)

Sperm transfer and spermatophore disintegration in females and duplex refilling in males of the Mexican rice borer, Eoreuma loftini (Dyar), were examined by freezing moths at time intervals after mating. Eupyrene sperm location and spermatophore condition in female moths changed with time after mating. Sperm transferred from the spermatophore to the spermatheca between 6 and 8 h after mating. Spermatophores passed through several stages of disintegration and were completely disintegrated after 72 to 96 h. Stages of spermatophore disintegration are described and can be used to estimate time since females have mated. Numbers of sperm bundles in male duplexes increased with increasing time after mating but were too variable to be of practical use in assessing mating status. The best indicator of male mating status was duplex condition (color). Duplex condition can be used to determine mating status for ≈6h after mating, although estimates using this criterion will be slight underestimates of actual mating activity.
Race, Rehabilitation, and 30-Day Readmission After Elective Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Introduction:To examine racial variations in access to postacute care (PAC) and rehabilitation (Rehab) services following elective total knee arthroplasty and whether where patients go after surger...
The Epic Journey of Achilles

Folk sagas, and epics, develop around a common sequence. A hero is isolated from his society, he enters a land of mystery, is tested by a confrontation with some dread power, he undergoes a symbolic death, and experiences a life-enhancing return to those he left behind. At the end, he is reinstated into the world of men. Joseph Campbell documents the ubiquity of this progression in Asia, Africa, North America, and Europe.The most prominent fact which seems to contradict the above order in the Iliad is the absence of any land of fantasy into which Achilles travels, and, along with this omission, the absence too of any weird or supernatural being against whom the hero must contend. We may even say that their is no real journey that the hero undertakes, for the action of the story lies consistently around Troy. Achilles appears static: he sits in a perfectly ordinary tent. However, this turn of the usual plot achieves something new: it allows Homer to suggest Achilles as an inwardly existing personality, whose mental estrangement is all the more clearly defined by the physical continuities about him. Unlike Odysseus and the many wandering heroes who get blown off course, lose their way in the woods, or who are kidnapped on their wedding nights, Achilles is within reach. Yet he remains apart.
The Impact of Alemtuzumab and Basiliximab Induction on Patient Survival and Time to Bronchiolitis Obliterans Syndrome in Double Lung Transplantation Recipients

We examined the effect of alemtuzumab and basiliximab induction therapy on patient survival and freedom from bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS) in double lung transplantation. The United Network for Organ Sharing database was reviewed for adult double lung transplant recipients from 2006 to 2013. The primary outcome was risk-adjusted all-cause mortality. Secondary outcomes included time to BOS. There were 6117 patients were identified, of whom 738 received alemtuzumab, 2804 received basiliximab, and 2575 received no induction. Alemtuzumab recipients had higher lung allocation scores compared with basiliximab and no-induction recipients (41.4 versus 37.9 versus 40.7, p < 0.001) and were more likely to require mechanical ventilation before to transplantation (21.7% versus 6.5% versus 6.2%, p < 0.001). Median survival was longer for alemtuzumab and basiliximab recipients compared with patients who received no induction (2321 versus 2352 versus 1967 days, p = 0.001). Alemtuzumab (hazard ratio 0.80, 95% confidence interval 0.67-0.95, p = 0.009) and basiliximab induction (0.88, 0.80-0.98, p = 0.015) were independently associated with survival on multivariate analysis. At 5 years, alemtuzumab recipients had a lower incidence of BOS (22.7% versus 55.4 versus 55.9%), and its use was independently associated with lower risk of developing BOS on multivariate analysis. While both induction therapies were associated with improved survival, patients who received alemtuzumab had greater median freedom from BOS.
Influence of age on optimal daily levothyroxine dosage in patients with primary hypothyroidism grouped according to etiology.

Background Optimal daily levothyroxine (LT4) dosage is reported to be significantly smaller in the elderly with primary hypothyroidism when compared with their younger counterparts. However, this finding has not been studied in different etiologic groups. Methods This study assessed the influence of age on optimal daily LT. dosage in 337 patients with primary hypothyroidism grouped according to etiology. Results Daily LT. dosage declined with increasing age in 99 patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis, in 73 patients with idiopathic variety, and in 47 patients with hypothyroidism due to radical neck surgery and/or neck radiation for non-thyroidal malignancies. In contrast, daily LT. dosage rose with age in 85 patients who had radioiodine (131I) therapy and/or subtotal thyroidectomy for hyperthyroidism. Finally, daily LT. dosage was not significantly altered in 22 patients with subclinical hypothyroidism or in 11 patients with drug-induced hypothyroidism. Conclusion Optimal daily LT4 dosage does not decline universally in all elderly with primary hypothyroidism: it appears to depend also on the etiology of the disorder.
ENDOTOXIN-INDUCED EXPOSURE OF PULMONARY GLYCOPROTEINS IN AN INTACT ANIMAL

A method has been developed to radioiodinate luminally disposed endothelial proteins in an in situ perfused lung system without causing obvious vascular changes. The spectrum of endothelial cell proteins labeled in control animals and those treated with endotoxin for 45 min were compared. No changes in gross tissue morphology or in the distribution of radiolabel (125I-s-SHPP) were detected in control or treated lungs. Lectin affinity purification was applied to a lung membrane fraction to isolate labeled proteins, which were in turn resolved by gel electrophoresis and autoradiography. Comparisons of gel autoradiographs from control and treated lungs identified eight glycoproteins, the labeling of which was enhanced in endotoxin-treated animals. A similar lectin affinity analysis of radiolabeled effluent blood cells from the lungs identified only two proteins, neither of which were consistently changed by endotoxin pretreatment. A glycoprotein response can, therefore, be measured at the pulmonary endothelial surface on endotoxin administration to the whole animal without causing obvious lung injury.
Experiential Learning Opportunities for Career Preparation of Animal Science Students

Most students enroll in a baccalaureate degree program to obtain a formal education that will increase the likelihood of their obtaining employment that is challenging, rewarding, and satisfying. A student’s formal education becomes more meaningful when coupled with hands-on, industry-relevant training such as an internship or part-time job. We describe herein a multi-pronged strategy that we have employed to encourage undergraduate students to participate in an experiential learning opportunity as a part of their formal education. Based on student feedback and the high placement rate of our students, we conclude this approach has been highly effective.
The Transmission of the Future: The Impact of Distributed Energy Resources on the Network

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) study "The Future of the Electric Grid," published in December 2011, examined challenges for power systems and concluded with a number of findings and recommendations. The study carefully separated recommendations for transmission from those meant for distribution. Transmission analysis focused on the lack of comprehensive planning at interconnected system levels, siting governance shortcomings, new technologies to enhance grid observability and security, and cybersecurity issues. It also stressed the additional flexibility requirements imposed by the growing presence of intermittent wind and solar generation in the generation mix. At the distribution level, in addition to concerns related to privacy and cybersecurity, recommendations focused on the need for a transition to dynamic pricing for end consumers, promotion of innovation in network design and management, data availability and ownership, and tariff reforms to support distribution network cost recovery.
Eyeing pathogens in the peripheral blood film.

(1999). Eyeing Pathogens in the Peripheral Blood Film. Hospital Practice: Vol. 34, Changing Approaches to Cardiovascular Disease, pp. 124-126.
High photovoltaic performance of ladder-type oligo-p-phenylene containing copolymers with high open-circuit voltages

Recently, there is increasing interest in polymer solar cells due to the growing demand for clean, renewable and sustainable energy. Since the introduction of the bulk heterojunction (BHJ) concept, regioregular poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) has been chosen as the standard electron donor in polymer BHJ solar cells.[1] In general, the photophysics, device science, and fabrication techniques associated with P3HT systems have been well understood. High performance solar cells with maximum efficiency of 4–5 % have been reported by using a blend of P3HT and [6,6]-phenyl C61 butyric acid methyl ester (PC 61 BM, or PCBM) [2–4]. Although further improvement of the photovoltaic performance of the P3HT/PCBM system is still possible, there are two limitations associated with this system. First, P3HT has a relative large band gap, limiting its solar light harvesting ability. Second, the difference between the HOMO level of P3HT and LUMO level of PCBM is relatively small, which leads to a low open-circuit voltage (~0.6 V).
Dynamics of CEO Communication Style

We examine changes over time in newly hired CEOs' communication styles in quarterly earnings conference calls. Our longitudinal analysis shows that forward-looking information provided by CEOs and their relative optimism decline in their tenure, whereas other non-CEO participants' communication styles remain time-invariant. Further, communication styles of CEOs with greater career concerns are more future-oriented and exhibit greater optimism. Our results are robust to alternative empirical choices regarding sampling, specifications and measures. Overall, our evidence is consistent with uncertainty reduction about management's strategies and plans, over time, lowering investor demand for information and attenuating managerial career concerns.
Information diffusion and opinion change during the gezi park protests : homophily or social influence?

Growth in online, opinion-rich sources of information, such as social networking websites, microblogs, and discussion forums, makes it possible for information to spread and reach others more easily than ever. During social movements the diffusion of ideas on these online platforms, along with other factors, may influence users' decision of what to think or who to support. This paper develops a study to investigate the effects of homophily mechanism as it may impact individuals' opinions and, in particular how opinions about a certain event change over time through mimicry and conformity. In this paper we present a Twitter dataset of communication during the Gezi Park Protests that took place in Turkey in 2013. We also present preliminary results based on text analysis and future steps for testing the effects of homophily mechanism.
IMPS-36RNA NANOPARTICLE VACCINES RE-PROGRAM HOST-IMMUNITY AGAINST GLIOBLASTOMA INDUCING THERAPEUTIC ANTI-TUMOR ACTIVITY.

INTRODUCTION: Glioblastoma (GBM) remains invariably associated with poor patient outcomes thus necessitating development of more targeted therapeutics. To circumvent the challenges associated with cellular therapeutics, we developed a novel treatment platform, which leverages the use of commercially available and clinically translatable nanoparticles (NPs) that can be combined with tumor derived RNA to peripherally activate T cells against GBM antigens. Although cancer vaccines have suffered from weak immunogenicity, we have advanced a NP vaccine formulation that can dramatically reshape a host's regulatory immune profile through combinatorial delivery of tumor RNA encoding for GBM antigens and RNAs encoding for immunomodulatory molecules to mediate long-lived T cell persistence. OBJECTIVE: We sought to assess if vaccination with amplified tumor derived RNA encapsulated in lipophilic NPs could be assembled to target antigen presenting cells (APCs) in vivo and induce therapeutic anti-tumor immunity in pre-clinical murine GBM models. RESULTS: We identified a clinically translatable NP formulation for the delivery of RNA to APCs that induces in vivo gene expression and preserves RNA stability over time. We showed that RNA-NPs induce global changes in B7 co-stimulatory molecules and MHC class II expression on CD11c expressing APCs. RNA-NPs vaccines increase systemic levels of monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) and increase the percentage of CD11c+ cells at target sites. White blood cells from target organs (spleen and livers) of vaccinated mice induce de novo antigen specific immune responses in naive mice. T cell immunity elicited by RNA-NP vaccination was superior to peptide vaccines in CFA, enhanced through co-encapsulation of RNA encoding GM-CSF or viral PAMPs (pathogen associated molecular patterns) from hepatitis C, and engendered therapeutic anti-tumor efficacy against a radiation and temozolomide resistant GBM murine model. CONCLUSION: Combinatorial RNA-NPs represent a novel therapeutic platform for GBM patients that can be commercialized as an ‘off the shelf’ vaccine to re-program host-immunity.
Neurocutaneous Melanosis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature:

This report concerns a case in which suicide by self-immolation occurred in an adolescent with neurocutaneous melanosis (NCM). A rare neurocutaneous syndrome, NCM has often been reported to occur concomitantly with psychiatric and neurologic disorders. While symptomatic disease is most often encountered in children, symptomatic disease at any age typically results in rapid morbidity and mortality. The gross and microscopic findings of NCM, the potential relevance of NCM to the case scenario, and a literature review of NCM will be presented. NCM may have a large influence on antemortem behavior and determination of cause of death, and for this reason it is important to be aware of its morphology and potential significance when encountered at autopsy.
Complete wavefront control of single-cycle THz pulses via optical pulse envelope manipulation

The generation of THz pulses by tilted and curved optical pulse-fronts is modeled from first-principles — agreeing with initial experimental results. We also propose a novel method to rapidly vary the tilt of optical pulse-fronts.
Developing and Sustaining Leaders for Catholic Schools: A Summary of the Conference Proceedings of the Second Catholic Higher Education Collaborative Conference

On October 1-3, 2009, Loyola University Chicago’s Center for Catholic School Effectiveness (CCSE) and School of Education hosted the second in a series of six planned Catholic Higher Education Collaborative Conferences (CHEC) entitled, “Developing and Sustaining Leaders for Catholic Schools: How Can Catholic Higher Education Help?” This working conference was structured around four main presentations, each addressing an aspect of the conference theme. Upon the conclusion of each session, conference participants were invited to respond and explore the themes that were presented in each session. This paper provides a summary of the presentations and the discussions of the participants. Finally, the follow-up actions, resulting from the conference, are shared.
Multipath TCP in Smartphones: Impact on Performance, Energy, and CPU Utilization

This paper explores the potential benefits and pitfalls of Multipath TCP (MPTCP) in smartphones via an extensive experimental study over real Android applications. We consider different types of applications - upload vs. download intensive, network intensive vs. interactive - and a variety of network conditions, and we study the impact of MPTCP on performance, energy consumption, and CPU utilization. Our results reveal that the benefits of MPTCP in smartphone apps are lower than expected in theory; in several cases, MPTCP in fact can hurt both performance and energy consumption. Our findings can provide insights to smartphone designers and mobile app developers towards improving user experience and extending smartphone battery life.
Escape from the strength-to-toughness paradox: Bulk ceramics through dual composite architectures

Abstract This paper describes an approach to escape from the classic strength-toughness trade-off in bulk ceramics using the dual composite architectural concept. The key questions addressed by the research were: can dual composite architectures be fabricated? -how do dual composite architectures affect the physical properties of ceramics? -do dual composite architectures affect the mechanical behavior of composites? -do dual composite architectures have increased damage tolerance at elevated temperatures? These questions were answered positively. Reinforcing granules dispersed in loose powder mixtures were hot-pressed to obtain fully dense dual composite architectures with target overall composition. Defined sub-composites (labeled granule and matrix) of similar compositions, but differing engineered microstructures, were successfully retained. The brittle-to-ductile transition of MoSi2 above 1400 K enabled the simultaneous increase in both strength and toughness, and values of up to 440 MPa and 11.5 MPa√m, respectively, were experimentally determined at 1773 K.
Glomerular mitochondrial changes in HIV associated renal injury

HIV-associated nephropathy (HIVAN) is an AIDs-related disease of the kidney. HIVAN is characterized by severe proteinuria, podocyte hyperplasia, collapse, glomerular, and tubulointerstitial damage. HIV-1 transgenic (Tg26) mouse is the most popular model to study the HIV manifestations that develop similar renal presentations as HIVAN. Viral proteins, including Tat, Nef, and Vpr play a significant role in renal cell damage. It has been shown that mitochondrial changes are involved in several kidney diseases, and therefore, mitochondrial dysfunction may be implicated in the pathology of HIVAN. In the present study, we investigated the changes of mitochondrial homeostasis, biogenesis, dynamics, mitophagy, and examined the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and apoptosis in the Tg26 mouse model. The Tg26 mice showed significant impairment of kidney function, which was accompanied by increased blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine and protein urea level. In addition, histological, western blot and PCR analysis of the Tg26 mice kidneys showed a downregulation of NAMPT, SIRT1, and SIRT3 expressions levels. Furthermore, the kidney of the Tg26 mice showed a downregulation of PGC1α, MFN2, and PARKIN, which are coupled with decrease of mitochondrial biogenesis, imbalance of mitochondrial dynamics, and downregulation of mitophagy, respectively. Furthermore, our results indicate that mitochondrial dysfunction were associated with ER stress, ROS generation and apoptosis. These results strongly suggest that the impaired mitochondrial morphology, homeostasis, and function associated with HIVAN. These findings indicated that a new insight on pathological mechanism associated with mitochondrial changes in HIVAN and a potential therapeutic target.
The novel cyst nematode effector protein 30D08 targets host nuclear functions to alter gene expression in feeding sites.

Cyst nematodes deliver effector proteins into host cells to manipulate cellular processes and establish a metabolically hyperactive feeding site. The novel 30D08 effector protein is produced in the dorsal gland of parasitic juveniles, but its function has remained unknown. We demonstrate that expression of 30D08 contributes to nematode parasitism, the protein is packaged into secretory granules and it is targeted to the plant nucleus where it interacts with SMU2 (homolog of suppressor of mec-8 and unc-52 2), an auxiliary spliceosomal protein. We show that SMU2 is expressed in feeding sites and an smu2 mutant is less susceptible to nematode infection. In Arabidopsis expressing 30D08 under the SMU2 promoter, several genes were found to be alternatively spliced and the most abundant functional classes represented among differentially expressed genes were involved in RNA processing, transcription and binding, as well as in development, and hormone and secondary metabolism, representing key cellular processes known to be important for feeding site formation. In conclusion, we demonstrated that the 30D08 effector is secreted from the nematode and targeted to the plant nucleus where its interaction with a host auxiliary spliceosomal protein may alter the pre-mRNA splicing and expression of a subset of genes important for feeding site formation.
Some Theoretical Considerations

This chapter begins with the basic definitions of what it means for the solution of the finite difference equations to converge to the solution of the partial differential equation. It is extremely important for a user of finite difference techniques to understand precisely what type of convergence their scheme has, what kinds of assumptions are made to get this convergence and how this convergence affects their accuracy. The most common approach to convergence of difference equations is through the concepts of consistency and stability and the Lax Theorem. The Lax Theorem allows us to prove convergence of a difference scheme by showing that the scheme is both consistent and stable (which are generally easier to show). The goal of this chapter is to include these definitions and the Lax Theorem in a rigorous setting that is intuitive and understandable.
Distribution of Precipitable Water Vapor over the Continental United States

Mean monthly values of precipitable water for about 50 stations in the United States are used to describe the amount and variation of moisture over the area. The average precipitable water over the...
Microbiome-Derived TMAO Exhibits No Protective Effect against GIB in LVAD Patients

Purpose Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) is a novel, gut microbe-derived metabolite that directly contributes to platelet activation and thrombosis, and is associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) is the most common complication during LVAD support and is related to acquired coagulopathy. We hypothesized that higher levels of TMAO might have a protective effect against the risk of GIB in LVAD patients. Methods We prospectively enrolled 123 heart failure (HF) patients undergoing LVAD surgery at our institution between Jan 2011 and Aug 2016. TMAO was measured in blood at three time points pre- and post-LVAD: baseline (pre-LVAD), 3-6 mo post-LVAD, and >6 mo post-LVAD. Patients were categorized by > median vs ≤median TMAO level. We assessed time to GIB occurrence for each time point separately. Univariable Cox proportional hazard models were constructed, along with multivariable models adjusted for (i) age and sex and (ii) age, sex, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Results Among 123 pts (age 57.5 ± 14.8, 86% male, 59% white), TMAO levels were measured at baseline in 77 pts, 3-6 mo post-LVAD in 54 pts, and >6 mo post-LVAD in 60 pts. Median (IQR) TMAO levels were 7.67 (3.86, 13.80) for pre-LVAD, 5.38 (3.21, 9.82) for 3-6 mo, 5.97 (4.44, 10.78) >6 mo. In univariable analysis, there was no significant difference in time to GIB for above vs below median TMAO levels at all time points. These findings were similar in each of the multivariable models (Table). Conclusion Although TMAO levels have been associated with pro-thrombotic potentials, no association was found between pre- and post-LVAD levels of TMAO and the risk of GIB in our cohort of LVAD patients.
Body Mass Index in Religious Contexts: Exploring the Multilevel Influences of Religion

Can the religious values of an entire geographic area affect the BMI of people living in that same area, even people with different religious values? Although prior research has demonstrated that individual religious characteristics are associated with individual BMI, less is known about how the overall religious context influences BMI. Using multilevel analyses on two waves of the National Study of Youth and Religion merged with county-level variables, this study finds that a county’s higher Catholic population share is associated with lower individual BMI even after controlling for various individual and county-level variables. Surprisingly, this Catholic contextual effect on BMI applies to almost everyone living in a predominantly Catholic county regardless of individual Catholic identity and residential movement across counties. In contrast, county-level conservative Protestant population share is linked with higher BMI. However, this conservative Protestant contextual effect is explained by county-level socioeconomic variables.
Single-Cell Omics in Autoimmune Disorders

Abstract The advancement of science and technology has successfully elucidated the distinct nature of cells, paving the way for single-cell omics. Since cells are the functional units of the human body, they make up all the existing systems in the body, so the intricacy of the human immune system is dictated by these very individual cells. The application of single-cell omics to the diverse field of immunology has equipped us to define novel subpopulations of immune cells and the role of existing and newly discovered cells in different maladies. It also bestows on us the power of profound profiling of immune cells, enabling us to take one step further towards understanding this highly complex system of the body, thereby providing us with the hope to fight the most dreadful disorders of the immune system, most especially autoimmunity. This chapter presents the fundamentals of single-cell omics as applied to immunology and discusses some specific applications to several of the most common autoimmune diseases.
Imatinib as a potentially effective therapeutic alternative in corticosteroid‐resistant eosinophilic fasciitis

Eosinophilic fasciitis (EF) is a rare condition in children that is typically treated with systemic corticosteroids. We present the case of a 9-year-old boy with biopsy-proven EF, refractory to systemic corticosteroids and methotrexate. The tyrosine kinase inhibitor imatinib was added as adjuvant therapy, leading to improvement in joint function and skin laxity. Our case is the first to suggest the anti-fibrotic properties of imatinib may benefit EF patients.
Recent Advances in miRNA Delivery Systems

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) represent a family of short non-coding regulatory RNA molecules that are produced in a tissue and time-specific manner to orchestrate gene expression post-transcription. MiRNAs hybridize to target mRNA(s) to induce translation repression or mRNA degradation. Functional studies have demonstrated that miRNAs are engaged in virtually every physiological process and, consequently, miRNA dysregulations have been linked to multiple human pathologies. Thus, miRNA mimics and anti-miRNAs that restore miRNA expression or downregulate aberrantly expressed miRNAs, respectively, are highly sought-after therapeutic strategies for effective manipulation of miRNA levels. In this regard, carrier vehicles that facilitate proficient and safe delivery of miRNA-based therapeutics are fundamental to the clinical success of these pharmaceuticals. Here, we highlight the strengths and weaknesses of current state-of-the-art viral and non-viral miRNA delivery systems and provide perspective on how these tools can be exploited to improve the outcomes of miRNA-based therapeutics.