cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Metabolic adaptations of the pelagic octopod Japetella diaphana to oxygen minimum zones

Abstract The pelagic octopod Japetella diaphana inhabits meso- and bathypelagic depths worldwide. Across its geographic and depth range, individuals encounter oxygen levels ranging from nearly air-saturated to nearly anoxic. In this study, we assessed the physiological adaptations of individuals from one of the largest and most extreme regions of ocean hypoxia, the Eastern Tropical North Pacific (ETNP) oxygen minimum zone (OMZ). Ship-board measurements of metabolic rate and hypoxia tolerance were conducted and a metabolic index was constructed to model suitable habitat for aerobic metabolism. We found that individuals from the ETNP had a low metabolic rate, yet higher than conspecifics from more oxygen-rich habitats. Despite their higher rates, hypoxia tolerance may be similar to or greater than in conspecifics from more oxygen-rich waters. Furthermore, hypoxia tolerance in J. diaphana has a reverse temperature-dependence from most marine ectotherms, a characteristic that uniquely suits the physical characteristics of the lower oxycline. Even with its high tolerance to hypoxia, J. diaphana is incapable of maintaining basal oxygen demand in the OMZ core, at a depth where populations are typically most abundant in more oxygenated regions. Despite the limited metabolically-suitable habitat, J. diaphana is abundant in the ETNP outside the OMZ core, suggesting that physiological and behavioral plasticity is sufficient to maintain species fitness in this region.
Mortality and hospitalization associated to emissions of a coal power plant: A population-based cohort study.

Abstract Background Coal-fired thermal power plants represent a significant source of air pollutants, especially sulfur dioxide (SO2) that has been associated with an increased risk of mortality and morbidity for respiratory and cardiovascular disease. A coal power plant in Vado Ligure (Italy) (CPPVL) started in 1970 was stopped in 2014 by the Prosecutor's Office on the grounds of environmental and health culpable disaster. Objective To investigate the association between the exposure of residents to atmospheric pollutants emitted by CPPVL and the risk of mortality and hospitalization, considering both cancer and non-cancer causes in a population-based cohort study. Methods SO2 and nitrogen oxides (NOx), estimated using the ABLE-MOLOCH-ADMS-Urban dispersion model, were selected as representative surrogates of exposure to CPPVL emissions (SO2-CPPVL) and cumulative emissions from other sources of pollution (NOx-MS), respectively. The relationship between each health outcome and categories of exposure to SO2-CPPVL was estimated by the Hazard Ratio (HR) using multiple sex-specific Cox regression models, adjusted for age, exposure to NOx-MS, and socio-economic deprivation index using SO2-CPPVL first quartile as a reference. Results 144,019 individuals were recruited (follow-up 2001–2013). An excess of mortality was found for all natural causes (men: 1.49; 95% CI 1.38–1.60; women: 1.49; 95% CI 1.39–1.59), diseases of the circulatory system (men: 1.41; 95% CI 1.24–1.56; women: 1.59; 95% CI 1.44–1.77), of the respiratory system (men: 1.90; 95% CI 1.47–2.45; women: 1.62; 95% CI 1.25–2.09), and of the nervous system and sense organs (men: 1.34; 95% CI 0.97–1.86; women: 1.38; 95% CI 1.03–1.83), and in men for trachea, bronchus, and lung cancers (1.59; 95% CI 1.26–2.00). Results of hospitalization analysis were consistent with those of mortality. Conclusion Results obtained, also when considering multiple sources of exposure, indicate that exposure to CPP emissions represents a risk factor for selected health outcomes as well as the urgently adoption of primary prevention measures and of a specific surveillance programme.
Subperiosteal hemorrhage: A rare complication in neurofibromatosis which may mimic malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor

Currently, there is little in the medical literature on subperiosteal hematomas in neurofibromatosis patients, particularly in those who have subperiosteal neurofibromas. Initial imaging and clinical presentation can be very worrisome and to the unaware may lead to early surgical intervention and/or anxiety in the patient and parents. This report presents the case of a 9-year-old child with neurofibromatosis type-1 and progressively increasing calf pain and swelling about a known plexiform neurofibroma. Imaging at initial presentation and at 1 month demonstrated evolving subperiosteal hemorrhage. This report adds to the small body of literature on subperiosteal hemorrhage as a complication of neurofibromatosis. Additionally, this report demonstrates an approach to noninvasive management of these lesions with the utility of initial and 1 month follow-up radiographs helpful in demonstrating hemorrhage evolution and possibly negating the need for biopsy.
The U.S. crude oil refining industry: Recent developments, upcoming challenges and prospects for exports

Abstract In 2018 the U.S. petroleum refining industry is the largest and most advanced in the world. Continuous consolidations and investments in complex refinery additions have allowed this industry to remain competitive and the shale oil revolution has contributed to the U.S. becoming a net exporter of refined petroleum products in 2008. In light of current and forecasted changes in refined petroleum product demand and worldwide refining capacity additions, the U.S. petroleum refining industry faces new challenges. This paper provides an in-depth study of this industry, presenting past trends, its current state and the effects that a changing U.S. crude oil production has on refiners. Furthermore, a scenario analysis is used to forecast future production levels and the volumes of major refined products available for exports over the years 2017–2032. The competitiveness of current U.S. gasoline and diesel exports is evaluated and forecasted gasoline and diesel demand in current export markets is compared to available export volumes. Major challenges facing refiners by changing market conditions and new regulatory rules are discussed. Finally, a set of recommendations is provided.
Toward a Mechanistic Understanding of DNA Methylation Readout by Transcription Factors

Abstract Epigenetic DNA modification impacts gene expression, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are only partly understood. Adding a methyl group to a cytosine base locally modifies the structural features of DNA in multiple ways, which may change the interaction with DNA-binding transcription factors (TFs) and trigger a cascade of downstream molecular events. Cells can be probed using various functional genomics assays, but it is difficult to disentangle the confounded effects of DNA modification on TF binding, chromatin accessibility, intranuclear variation in local TF concentration, and rate of transcription. Here we discuss how high-throughput in vitro profiling of protein–DNA interactions has enabled comprehensive characterization and quantification of the methylation sensitivity of TFs. Despite the limited structural data for DNA containing methylated cytosine, automated analysis of structural information in the Protein Data Bank (PDB) shows how 5-methylcytosine (5mC) can be recognized in various ways by amino acid side chains. We discuss how a context-dependent effect of methylation on DNA groove geometry can affect DNA binding by homeodomain proteins and how principled modeling of ChIP-seq data can overcome the confounding that makes the interpretation of in vivo data challenging. The emerging picture is that epigenetic modifications affect TF binding in a highly context-specific manner, with a direction and effect size that depend critically on their position within the TF binding site and the amino acid sequence of the TF. With this improved mechanistic knowledge, we have come closer to understanding how cells use DNA modification to acquire, retain, and change their identity.
Raising the Curtain on the Structure of Luteovirids

Luteovirids rank among the most destructive viruses of economically important crops. Until now their structures have only been inferred by inadequate homology models due to their phloem-limited infection and inadequate yields. Employing virus-like particles, Byrne et al. (2019) now report near-atomic resolution structures of two family members providing important functional insights.
Introducing the pseudorandom value generator selection in the compilation toolchain

As interest in randomization has grown within the computing community, the number of pseudorandom value generators (PRVGs) at developers' disposal dramatically increased. Today, developers lack the tools necessary to obtain optimal behavior from their PRVGs. We provide the first deep study into the tradeoffs among the PRVGs in the C++ standard, finding no silver bullet for all programs and architectures. With this in mind, we have built PRV Jeeves, the first fully automatic PRVG selector. We demonstrate that when compiling widely-used, highly optimized programs with PRV Jeeves, we are able to cut execution time by 34% on average. This enhancement comes at no cost to developers.
Total extraperitoneal laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair with adductor tenotomy: a 10-year experience in the treatment of athletic pubalgia.

Athletic pubalgia, commonly referred to as a “sports hernia,” is a disease process characterized by groin pain produced by physical exertion often occurring in patients whose athletic activities require them to make rapid changes in direction. The groin pain is due to the traction–countertraction relationship between the adductor muscles and the weaker abdominal muscles. Hence, a few studies have shown inguinal hernia repair with adductor tenotomy to be an effective treatment for this pathology (Brody in Hernia 21:139–147, 2016, https://doi.org/10.1007/s10029-016-1520-8 ; Rossidis et al. in Surg Endosc 29:381–386, 2015, https://doi.org/10.1007/s00464-0143679-3 ). However, these studies are small and few in quantity but have demonstrated promising results. Thus, we sought to further study this combined surgical approach as a treatment for this multifactorial disease to improve our understanding and outcomes. With IRB approval, we retrospectively reviewed the charts of all patients who underwent adductor tenotomy and inguinal hernia repair for the treatment of athletic pubalgia at Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach FL. Parameters gathered included basic demographics, past medical and surgical history, athletic activity, length of surgery, length of time between surgery and follow-up, intraoperative and postoperative complications, and time to return to athletic activities. A total of 93 patients underwent inguinal hernia repair with adductor tenotomy. These procedures were all performed by a single surgeon at two academic institutions. The average age of patients was 23.4 years. Athletic activities reported by the patients were as follows: American football (n = 36), soccer (n = 18), triathlon (n = 11), track and field (n = 8), and baseball (n = 5). Less-represented activities included swimming (n = 3), tennis (n = 2), lacrosse (n = 1), golf (n = 1), and other (n = 8). Mean operative time was 72.4 min. Most patients were found to return to athletic activity in 28 days following a standardized physical therapy regimen (92.5%). Postoperative complications included recurrence of pain/symptoms (7.5%, n = 7), urinary retention (2.2%, n = 2), pain along the adductor magnus/brevis muscle group with more extraneous activity (1.1%, n = 1), and adductor brevis hematoma 3 months following surgery and rehabilitation (1.1%, n = 1). Of the patients with recurrent pain, 2/7 reported contralateral pain. Total extraperitoneal laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair with adductor tenotomy appears to be a relatively quick and safe procedure with few postoperative complications. The majority of treated athletes are able to return to full athletic activities within 28 days of operation. While a return of symptoms has been seen in some patients, it is frequently observed on the contralateral side.
A feasibility study providing substance use treatment in the Black church.

Abstract Background Black adults with substance use disorders (SUDs) experience health care disparities, including access to and retention in treatment. The Black church is a trusted institution in the Black community and could be a novel setting for providing SUD treatment. Method We conducted a nonrandomized feasibility study evaluating (1) whether it was possible to conduct a clinical trial of SUD treatment in this setting, (2) whether an adequate number of individuals with SUDs would participate in technology-based treatment in this setting, and (3) whether an adequate number of individuals would be retained in this setting. We evaluated computer-based training for cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT4CBT), with modifications that the church-based health advisors (CHAs), who delivered the intervention within the church, made. Results Participants were 40 Black adults, all of whom met DSM-5 criteria for a current SUD, (55% severe). The mean number of sessions completed was 6.8 and 31 completed all 7 sessions of CBT4CBT. Both self-reports and weekly urine toxicology screens indicated reduction in substance use over time. Conclusion We demonstrated feasibility, as we were able to (1) collect weekly data and protect participant confidentiality, (2) recruit an adequate number of individuals with SUD, with (3) high uptake and retention of an adapted CBT4CBT in the Black church. If demonstrated to be effective in a future randomized clinical trial, delivery of technology-based treatments in the Black church may prove a promising, easily disseminable strategy to provide evidence-based interventions to an underserved and undertreated population.
A nonlinear measurement error model and its application to describing the dependency of health outcomes on dietary intake

Many nutritional studies focus on the relationship between individuals' diets and resulting health outcomes. When examining these relationships, researchers are generally interested in individuals'...
T Cell Memory: Understanding COVID-19.

As the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has progressed, increasing attention has focused on establishing natural and vaccine-induced immunity against this coronavirus and the disease, COVID-19, that it causes. In this Primer, we explain the fundamental features of T cell memory and their potential relevance for effective immunity to SARS-CoV-2.
A Principle for Converting Lindström-Type Lemmas to Stembridge-Type Theorems, with Applications to Walks, Groves, and Alternating Flows

We prove that Fomin’s generalization of Lindstrom’s lemma for paths on acyclic directed graphs to walks on general directed graphs also generalizes a theorem of Stembridge in the same way. Moreover, we show that whenever a family of operations satisfies a Lindstrom-type determinant relation, a related family of operations satisfies a Stembridge-type Pfaffian relation. We give example applications to Kenyon and Wilson’s work on groves and to Talaska’s work on alternating flows.
How does gout impact outcomes following primary shoulder arthroplasty?: Gout and shoulder arthroplasty

Abstract Introduction Studies have shown that the overall prevalence of gout has increased. Data shows that patients with gout have worse outcomes following total joint arthroplasty, however studies investigating the effects of gout following primary total shoulder (TSA) and reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) are limited. The purpose of this study was to compare outcomes of patients with and without gout undergoing primary shoulder arthroplasty, evaluating (1) in-hospital length of stay (LOS); (2) medical complications; (3) cost of care. Methods A retrospective query using a nationwide administrative claims database was performed from January 2005 to March 2014 for all patients who underwent primary TSA and RSA for the treatment of glenohumeral osteoarthritis, yielding a total of 11,414 patients to be included. For the TSA cohort, 7702 patients were identified within the study (n = 1,185) and control (n = 6417) cohorts. Similarly, 3712 patients were identified within the RSA cohorts (gout n = 621 and control n = 3,091). Primary endpoints were in-hospital LOS, 90-day medical complications, and total global 90-day episode of care (EOC) costs. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to calculate the odds (OR) of medical complications, whereas Welch's t-tests were used to compare LOS and costs of care. A P value less than .05 was considered statistically significant. Results Patients with gout undergoing primary TSA (3- vs. 2-days, P Conclusion This study demonstrates that patients with gout undergoing primary shoulder arthroplasty have longer in-hospital LOS, in addition to higher rates of complications, and increased costs of care. The study can be used by orthopedic surgeons to educate patients who have gout on complications which may occur following their surgical procedure. Level of Evidence : Level III
A Modified Mediterranean Dietary Intervention for Multiple Sclerosis: Results of a Pilot Study (P4.2-066)

Objective: To assess clinical trial feasibility and explore effects of a modified Mediterranean dietary intervention in MS Background: Interest in the role of diet among MS patients is quite high. At the same time, there is increasing scientific evidence for the importance of dietary factors in MS incidence and disease course. Based on available literature, we developed a rationally-designed dietary intervention (restrictive, modified Mediterranean diet) and conducted a randomized pilot study in women with MS for 6 months. Design/Methods: Participants were randomly assigned to the modified Mediterranean dietary intervention or control arm (educational seminars). The intervention group received training with the study nutritionist and attended monthly meetings to assess and promote adherence. Formal assessments were completed at baseline and 6 months. Results: We screened 131 patients between December 2016 and October 2017. Of these, 36 (27.5%) were eligible and willing to commit to the study. 18/18 assigned to the intervention group and 16/18 assigned to the non-intervention group completed the study. Self-reported adherence was excellent (mean at 6 months= 90.3%). Additional adherence data utilizing other measures will be reported. 16/18 participants reported some benefit to their overall health and 14/18 reported specific benefits regarding MS symptoms. Mean change on the Neurological Fatigue Index-MS was −2.3±5.3 compared to +2.0±3.1 for controls (p=0.006) and mean change on Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale-29 after exclusion of one outlier was −5.0±9.3 vs +4.4±11.1 (p=0.01). Conclusions: It is feasible to enroll MS patients into a rigorous dietary intervention study requiring significant commitment and randomization and reasonable to expect high adherence to this type of dietary program utilizing educational methods to promote adherence. Preliminarily, this regimen improves fatigue and decreases the impact of MS symptoms. Larger scale clinical trials to assess the role of diet for symptom management and even as a disease-modifier in MS are feasible and warranted. Disclosure: Dr. Katz Sand has nothing to disclose. Dr. Digga has nothing to disclose. Dr. Benn has nothing to disclose. Dr. Desphande has nothing to disclose. Dr. Gallo has nothing to disclose. Dr. Fabian has nothing to disclose. Dr. Miller has received personal compensation for consulting, serving on a scientific advisory board, speaking, or other activities with Accordant Health Services (Caremark), Adamas, BiogenIdec, Celgene, Corrona, EMD Serono, Genzyme/Sanofi, Mallinckrodt, Mapi-Pharma, Novartis, and Roche/Genentech. Dr. Miller has received personal compensation in an editorial capacity for Continuum Audio. Dr. Miller has received research support from BiogenIdec, Genzyme/Sanofi, Mallickrodt, Novartis, Roche/Genentech, and MedDay. Dr. Arab has nothing to disclose.
Diamidophosphate (DAP): A Plausible Prebiotic Phosphorylating Reagent with a Chem to BioChem Potential?

Known since the 1890s, diamidophosphate (DAP) has been investigated within the context of its inorganic chemistry. In 1999 - with the demonstration of DAP's potential as a phosphorylating agent of sugars in aqueous medium - began the exciting phase of research about DAP's role as a plausible prebiotic phosphorylating agent. More recently, in the last five years, there has been a steady increase in the publications that have documented the surprising versatility of DAP enabling the emergence of many classes of biomolecules of life, such as nucleic acids, peptides and protocells. Thus, though in its infancy, DAP seems to be uniquely positioned to play a central role in modelling abiotic- to prebiotic-chemical evolution. In this context, there is a need for systematic investigations for: (a) establishing DAP's likely availability on the early Earth, and (b) developing DAP's potential as a tool for use in synthetic and bioorganic chemistry.
Hourly Kinetics of Critical Organ Dysfunction in Extremely Preterm Infants.

Rationale: Use of severity of illness scores to classify patients for clinical care and research is common outside of the neonatal intensive care unit. Extremely premature (<29 weeks gestation), ex...
Subversive Dialogues: Theory In Feminist Therapy

Introduction Toward a Subversive Dialogue with the Reader Feminism in Feminist Therapy Theory Theorizing from Diversity The Relationship inFeminist Therapy Naming the Pain: Diagnosis and Distress To Speak the Mother Tongue: Models of Case Conceptualization The Masters Tools: The Dilemma of Dealing with Patriarchy Feminism and Ethics Emerging from the Wilderness.
Diel Variability and Community Metabolism in African Soda Lakes

Information theory based indices of predictability were used to quantify seasonal differences in diel variability of dissolved oxygen and temperature in Lakes Elmenteita and Sonachi. Predictability of patterns in diel variability was high in both lakes for water temperatures and dissolved oxygen. Community metabolism was measured in Lake Elmenteita, a shallow, Kenyan soda lake based on a series of vertical profiles of dissolved oxygen and temperature measured about monthly over several days for 13 periods from February 1973 to May 1974. Variations in areal oxygen content at successive intervals throughout each day and night were corrected for air-water oxygen exchange to calculate net free water oxygen change. Maximal rates of increase usually occurred in late morning or early afternoon and ranged from 0.3 to 2.1 g O2 m -2 h -1 . Rates of change were summed to determine night-time respiration and gross photosynthesis (day-time sum plus night-time respiration); gross photosynthesis ranged from 1.5 to 18.2 g O2 m -2 d -1 .
Lymphocyte Adhesion to Epithelia and Endothelia Mediated by the Lymphocyte Endothelial-Epithelial Cell Adhesion Molecule Glycoprotein

Upon encountering the relevant vascular bed, lymphocytes attach to endothelial adhesion molecules, transmigrate out of circulation, and localize within tissues. Lymphocytes may then be retained at microanatomic sites, as in tissues, or they may continue to migrate to the lymphatics and recirculate in the blood. Lymphocytes also interact transiently, but with high avidity, with target cells or APC that are infected with microbes or have taken up exogenous foreign Ags. This array of adhesive capabilities is mediated by the selective expression of lymphocyte adhesion molecules. Here, we developed the 6F10 mAb, which recognizes a cell surface glycoprotein designated lymphocyte endothelial-epithelial cell adhesion molecule (LEEP-CAM), that is distinct in biochemical characteristics and distribution of expression from other molecules known to play a role in lymphocyte adhesion. LEEP-CAM is expressed on particular epithelia, including the suprabasal region of the epidermis, the basal layer of bronchial and breast epithelia, and throughout the tonsillar and vaginal epithelia. Yet, it is absent from intestinal and renal epithelia. Interestingly, it is expressed also on vascular endothelium, especially high endothelial venules (HEV) in lymphoid organs, such as tonsil and appendix. The anti-LEEP-CAM mAb specifically blocked T and B lymphocyte adhesion to monolayers of epithelial cells and to vascular endothelial cells in static cell-to-cell binding assays by ∼40–60% when compared with control mAbs. These data suggest a role for this newly identified molecule in lymphocyte binding to endothelium, as well as adhesive interactions within selected epithelia.
An assessment of feeding jejunostomy tube placement at the time of resection for gastric adenocarcinoma.

Background Feeding jejunostomy tubes (J-tube) are often placed during gastrectomy for cancer to decrease malnutrition and promote delivery of adjuvant therapy. We hypothesized that J-tubes actually are associated with increased complications and do not improve nutritional status nor increase rates of adjuvant therapy. Methods One hundred thirty-two patients were identified from a prospectively maintained database that underwent gastric resection for gastric adenocarcinoma between 1/00 and 3/11 at one institution. Pre- and postoperative nutritional status and relevant intraoperative and postoperative parameters were examined. Results Median age was 64 years (range 23–85). Forty-six (35%) underwent a total and 86 (65%) a subtotal gastrectomy. J-tubes were placed in 66 (50%) patients, 34 of whom underwent a subtotal and 32 a total gastrectomy. Preoperative nutritional status was similar between J-tube and no J-tube groups as measured by serum albumin (3.5 vs. 3.4 g/dL). Tumor grade, T, N, and overall stage were similar between groups. J-tube placement was associated with increased postop complications (59% vs. 41%, P = 0.04) and infectious complications (36% vs. 17%, P = 0.01), of which majority were surgical site infections. J-tubes were associated with prolonged length of stay (13 vs. 11 days; P = 0.05). There was no difference in postoperative nutritional status as measured by 30, 60, and 90-day albumin levels and the rate of receiving adjuvant therapy was similar between groups (J-tube: 61%, no J-tube: 53%, P = 0.38). Multivariate analyses revealed J-tubes to be associated with increased postop complications (HR: 4.8; 95% CI: 1.3–17.7; P = 0.02), even when accounting for tumor stage and operative difficulty and extent. Subset analysis revealed J-tubes to have less associated morbidity after total gastrectomy. Conclusion J-tube placement after gastrectomy for gastric cancer may be associated with increased postoperative complications with no demonstrable advantage in receiving adjuvant therapy. Routine use of J-tubes after subtotal gastrectomy may not be justified, but may be selectively indicated in patients undergoing total gastrectomy. A prospective trial is needed to validate these results. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013;107:728–734. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Mount Wilson Halo Mapping Project

Four parts of the long-range Mount Wilson halo mapping project are designed to find the density gradient, the flattening, and the metallicity distribution of the halo at various heights above the plane. The plan is described, and first results on the photometry to B ≃ 20 mag in SA28, 55, 82, and 107 are illustrated. Two methods are described to study the chemical difference between the old disk and the high velocity halo, one using local stars with a range in W velocities, and the other by observing faint stars directly in situ.
Taking Control of Redundancy in Scripted Tutorial Dialogue

We describe extensions to a finite-state dialogue manager and its author scripting language that enable control over content repetition during tutorial dialogue. The problem of controlling redundancy requires the specification of complex conditions on the discourse history that are beyond the capabilities of the intended users of the scripting language. We show that the problem can be addressed by adding semantic labelling and the marking of optional steps and difficulty levels to the scripting language and heuristic algorithms to the dialogue manager.
Marginal zone lymphomas: factors that affect the final outcome.

BACKGROUND: A retrospective review and analysis of 275 patients with marginal zone lymphoma (MZL) was performed to determine prognostic factors. An effort was also made to establish a specific prognostic score for patients with extranodal MZL. METHODS: Patients were divided into 3 groups according to the type of MZL: extranodal, nodal, and splenic. Factors analyzed included age; gender; presence of B symptoms; Zubrod performance score; clinical stage; serum β2-microglobulin, lactate dehydrogenase, albumin, and hemoglobin levels; and presence of autoimmune disorder. RESULTS: The 5-year overall survival rates of patients with extranodal, nodal, and splenic MZL were 87%, 89%, and 93%, respectively (P = .95). On multivariate analysis, splenic MZL patients had the best prognosis (hazard ratio, 0.18; P = .018). An elevated serum β2-microglobulin level (P = .010), B symptoms (P = .021), and male gender (P = .036) were found to be correlated with decreased recurrence-free survival (RFS) on multivariate analysis. Using these 3 variables, a 3-tier prognostic scoring system was created for patients with extranodal MZL: low-risk with no adverse factors, intermediate-risk with 1 adverse factor, and high-risk with ≥2 adverse factors. The 5-year RFS rates for the low-risk, intermediate-risk, and high-risk groups were 80%, 71%, and 44%, respectively (P = .01). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with extranodal and nodal MZL have a similar prognosis, whereas patients with splenic MZL have a better prognosis despite the increased prevalence of negative prognostic indicators. With the use of 3 readily available factors, a prognostic scoring system was identified for patients with extranodal MZL. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
The metabolism and functions of vitamin D.

Vitamin D functions by stimulating intestinal calcium and phosphorus absorption, by stimulating bone calcium mobilization, and by increasing renal reabsorption of calcium in the distal tubule. These functions on bone and possibly kidney, but not intestine, require the parathyroid hormone. As a result of these functions, serum calcium and phosphorus concentrations are elevated to supersaturating levels required for the mineralization of bone to prevent rickets, osteomalacia, and hypocalcemic tetany. Recent experiments demonstrate that maintaining serum calcium and phosphorus levels in vitamin D-deficient rats in the normal range results in normal bone growth and mineralization. However, increased calcification results because bone resorption by osteoclasts is a vitamin D-dependent process. Thus, bone resorption, modeling and remodeling must be considered vitamin D-dependent processes.
Does what happens in group care stay in group care? The relationship between problem behaviour trajectories during care and post-placement functioning

Residential programmes for youth may improve youth behaviour during placement, but it is not clear whether there is an association between a youth's behaviour pattern during placement and post-placement outcomes. Life course perspective has been used to understand longitudinal patterns and pathways, and new statistical methods have been developed to identify latent trajectory groups. This study used administrative data from a family-style group care programme to assess whether a youth's externalizing behaviour trajectory while in placement can significantly predict delinquency and adjustment outcomes at discharge and 6-month follow-up. Findings from multinomial logistic regression revealed a statistically significant relationship between a youth's behaviour trajectory class and outcomes. Behaviour pattern during care was a stronger predictor of outcome than cross-sectional measures such as other demographic factors, placement history or mental-health need indicators.
Towards understanding global spread of disease from everyday interpersonal interactions

Monitoring and forecast of global spread of infectious diseases is difficult, mainly due to lack of fine-grained and timely data. Previous work in computational epidemiology has shown that mining data from the web can improve the predictability of high-level aggregate patterns of epidemics. By contrast, this paper explores how individuals contribute to the global spread of disease. We consider the important task of predicting the prevalence of flu-like illness in a given city based on interpersonal interactions of the city's residents with the outside world. We use the geo-tagged status updates of traveling Twitter users to infer properties of the flow of individuals between cities. While previous research considered only the raw volume of passengers, we estimate a number of latent variables, including the number of sick (symptomatic) travelers and the number of sick individuals to whom each traveler was exposed. We show that AI techniques provide insights into the mechanisms of disease spread and significantly improve predictability of future flu outbreaks. Our experiments involve over 51,000 individuals traveling between 75 cities prior and during a severe ongoing flu epidemic (October 2012 - January 2013). Our model leverages the text and interpersonal interactions recorded in over 6.5 million online status updates without any active user participation, enabling scalable public health applications.
Numerical Simulation Using Realizable k-e Turbulence Model of Jet Flow Mixing Within Rod Bundles

In this investigation, a steady state simulation of jet mixing in a rod bundle with varied jet Reynolds numbers was performed with CD-Adapco’s Star-CCM+ computational fluid dynamics (CFD) code utilizing the realizable k-e turbulence model and two-layer y+ wall treatment. The goal of the work is to investigate the ability of the realizable k-e turbulence model to predict phenomena expected in the exit plenum of the prismatic gas cooled reactor as well as provide a benchmark for future numerical investigation into the validity of certain turbulence models for rod bundle simulation. Numerical results were qualitatively verified against available experimental data [6]. Two injection sites were present in the rod bundle with impingement of the jets on the lower plane of the domain. The Reynolds numbers specified for the inlets varied between 6,300 and 12,700 for different cases. A mesh of over four million polyhedron cells was generated to capture critical flow characteristics within the domain. Polyhedral cells were chosen for this application because they provided a better quality mesh and reduced the total number of cells necessary to achieve accurate results [4]. The simulations carried out were defined as having reached a converged solution when all residuals reduced to less than 10−5 . The simulation of the flow in the rod bundle was successful in providing insight into locations of some key recirculation zones and the dependence they have on inlet conditions. The comparison between numerical and experimental results showed similar key flow patterns as well as aided in possible points of focus for future investigation. The information obtained and conclusions drawn will be critical in future numerical benchmarks in this area of research.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Modified treatment approach using cardiovascular disease risk calculator for primary prevention.

BACKGROUND The recent guidelines for preventing atherosclerotic cardiovascular events are an important advancement. For primary prevention, statins are recommended if the ten-year risk is ≥ 5% (consideration for therapy) or ≥ 7.5% (definitive treatment unless contraindication after discussion). We rationalized that a significant cohort with ten-year risk below the treatment thresholds would predictably surpass them within the recommended 4-6 year window for reassessing the ten-year risk. As atherosclerosis is a progressive disease, these individuals may therefore benefit with more aggressive therapies even at baseline. METHODS AND FINDINGS We used publicly available NHANES dataset for ten-year risk calculation. There were 1805 participants. To evaluate the ten-year risk change at five years, we considered two scenarios: no change in the baseline parameters except increased age by five (No Change) and alternatively 10% improvement in systolic BP, total and HDL-c, no smoking with five-year increase in age (Reduced Risk Profile). Amongst non-diabetics with <5% risk at baseline, 35% reached or exceeded 5% risk in five years (5% reached or exceed the 7.5% risk) with No Change and 9% reached or exceeded 5% risk in five years (none reached 7.5% risk) with Reduced Risk Profile; furthermore, 94% of the non-diabetic cohort with baseline risk between 3.5%-5% would exceed the 5% and/or 7.5% boundary limit with No Change. Amongst non-diabetics with 5-7.5% baseline risks, 87% reached or exceeded 7.5% with No Change while 30% reached or exceeded 7.5% risk with Reduced Risk Profile. CONCLUSIONS A significant population cohort at levels below the treatment thresholds will predictably exceed these limits with time with or without improvement in modifiable risk factors and may benefit with more aggressive therapy at baseline. We provide an improved risk calculator that allows for integrating expected risk modification into discussion with an individual. This needs to be prospectively tested in clinical trials.
iPads in the Technical Communication Classroom An Empirical Study of Technology Integration and Use

Integrating and using technology in the technical communication classroom is an ongoing interest and challenge for the field. Previous work tends to focus on best practices and other types of gener...
In Situ Cross-Linking of Alternating Polyelectrolyte Multilayer Films

A water-soluble, blocked diisocyanate was proven to support stable growth of bilayers with branched poly(ethylenimine), bPEI, in a layer-by-layer (LBL) technique. A quartz crystal microbalance and ellipsometry were employed to measure bilayer formation and infrared spectroscopy of LBL deposited films of hexamethylene-1,6-di(aminocarboxysulfonate) and bPEI revealed in situ cross-linking between successive layers. Erratic film growth with poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) with which covalent linkage was not possible, and film stability in high salt and diethanolamine solutions also supported cross-linking. Silica beads coated with alkaline phosphatase (ALP)−bPEI bilayers were capped with the cross-linking agent, and loss of enzymatic activity and less dissolution of active ALP were observed, relative to uncapped or alternately caped assemblies. Consequently, such a cross-linking agent alone or diluted with other polyanions, like poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate), might prove useful in controlling network...
Enhanced Turbulence and Energy Dissipation at Ocean Fronts

The ocean surface boundary layer mediates air-sea exchange. In the classical paradigm and in current climate models, its turbulence is driven by atmospheric forcing. Observations at a 1-kilometer-wide front within the Kuroshio Current indicate that the rate of energy dissipation within the boundary layer is enhanced by one to two orders of magnitude, suggesting that the front, rather than the atmospheric forcing, supplied the energy for the turbulence. The data quantitatively support the hypothesis that winds aligned with the frontal velocity catalyzed a release of energy from the front to the turbulence. The resulting boundary layer is stratified in contrast to the classically well-mixed layer. These effects will be strongest at the intense fronts found in the Kuroshio Current, the Gulf Stream, and the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, all of which are key players in the climate system.
The Importance of Kinetic Metastability: Some Common Everyday Examples.

The importance of kinetic metastability is illustrated in detail using several common household products and recommendations are made for how this important and widespread, but often neglected, phenomenon can be more effectively presented in the introductory chemistry textbook.
Stochastic and deterministic models for the kinetic behavior of certain structured enzyme systems I: one enzyme-one substrate systems.

Abstract This paper presents the results of a study concerned with the development of stochastic models for certain prototype, structured one-enzyme systems and the comparisons of these models with their deterministic, i.e., solution chemistry analogs under steady state conditions. The comparisons are in the form of graphs of steady state reaction kinetics versus substrate concentration for each type of model. The lack of agreement between the deterministic and stochastic models is related to a measure of the non-linearity of the system, in accord with Jensen's inequalities. Implications of these results, relative to experimental procedures are briefly discussed. A subsequent paper will present similar results for certain structured two-enzyme systems.
Investigation of CaF2:Eu scintillator for D-D neutron interrogation

CaF 2 :Eu is an attractive radiation detection material because it is inert, non-hygroscopic, shock resistant, and can be less expensive than other radiation detection materials. A CaF 2 :Eu scintillation detector was constructed to identify whether energy dependent differences in (n,p) and (n,a) cross sections could be exploited to distinguish fission neutrons from D-D neutrons in an active interrogation system. Experimentally, the charged particles are difficult to distinguish from the significantly larger number of y-rays produced in (n,y) reactions. In addition, modeling results show that fission neutrons produce only slightly higher charged particle production rates than D-D neutrons. For charged particle production in CaF 2 :Eu to succeed in fission neutron detection, a superior y-ray discrimination technique is required.
The control of trehalose synthesis in the blowfly, Phormia regina Meig.

Abstract An investigation has been made of the relative importance of various factors in establishing the normal blood level of trehalose in adult males of Phormia regina Meig. The role of the corpus cardiacum hyperglycaemic hormone has been examined, and it has been shown that although a factor is present in Phormia cardiacum which increases both the level of blood trehalose in P. americana and the rate of trehalose synthesis in isolated Phormia fat body, this material does not produce a rise in blood trehalose when injected into ad lib. fed Phormia . Cardiacum extract does, however, become effective after Phormia has been starved for more than 24 hr. In vitro synthesis of trehalose by fat body is subject to end-product inhibition, being completely blocked by relatively low amounts of trehalose. These findings are discussed and a rational basis proposed for the maintenance of blood sugar levels.
Symptomatic vasospasm after resection of a suprasellar pilocytic astrocytoma: case report and possible pathogenesis.

BACKGROUND Cerebral vasospasm from pathology other than subarachnoid hemorrhage is uncommon. A case of severe vasospasm after resection of a suprasellar pilocytic astrocytoma is reported. METHODS A 45-year-old male presented with headache, left facial numbness, bilateral visual loss, and ataxia. Evaluation revealed a large suprasellar tumor, which was resected. Pathologic examination showed pilocytic astrocytoma. The patient developed hemiparesis and aphasia on the fifth postoperative day. Vascular spasm was documented on angiography and by transcranial Doppler. RESULTS Intraarterial papaverine resulted in moderate angiographic improvement. Attempts to open middle cerebral artery branches with angioplasty were unsuccessful. The patient subsequently developed a left middle cerebral artery infarct. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the first description of vasospasm after resection of an astrocytoma. Possible mechanisms contributing to this unusual complication after resection of tumors are discussed.
Influence of subsidence on the anatomy of marine siliciclastic sequences and on the distribution of shell and bone beds

Skeletal concentrations are common foci for palaeontological collecting, yet vary widely in their expected levels of taphonomic bias depending on whether they are comparatively simple event-concentrations, more complex accretionary accumulations of either normal or condensed thickness, or residual lags that mark horizons of significant erosional/corrosional truncation of the record (Table 1). These different types and their intermediates also have different potential for use in basin analysis, for example as marker beds, bathymetric indicators, and clues to hiatuses. The stratigraphy and taphonomy of marine siliciclastic sequences from a spectrum of basin types have been examined to determine the extent to which shell and bone beds are linked to physical stratigraphic features such as discontinuity surfaces and transgressive-regressive cycles at various scales, and thus the extent to which physical processes might influence palaeontological data. This series of basin-scale studies has also provided an opportunity to assess the practical utility of skeletal concentrations in reconstructing basin history and to investigate subsidence-related variation both in skeletal accumulation and in the anatomy of siliciclastic sequences. Field studies have been restricted to post-Palaeozoic, primarily Neogene sections in warm temperate to subtropical palaeolatitudes and have focused on marine facies tracts developed in shelf and shallower water depths during phases of ‘coastal onlap’. (Sequence stratigraphic terms are used here to describe physical aspects of the record, and do not imply any particular chronostratigraphic value or genetic, i.e. eustatic, origin.) The results of this work indicate that: (a) skeletal concentrations are distributed fairly systematically within marine sequences, both in
Entomology—An Honored Profession

“The struggle between man and insects began long before the dawn of civilization, has continued without cessation to the present time, and will continue, no doubt, as long as the human race endures. Of the creatures that emerged from the ooze of a nebular universe, one was the primordial ancestor of insects, another the progenitor of man. The former set out quickly on its evolutionary trail and eventually produced some 2,000,000 species of insects-several millennia before the human race settled down to stake its chances of survival in the world on the single genus and species, Homo sapiens. From the very beginning, man and insect have been destined, with rare exceptions, to be mortal enemies wherever their trails crossed in their struggle for existence.”
Response of heavy-drinking voluntary and mandated college students to a peer-led brief motivational intervention addressing alcohol use

Little is known about the way in which mandated and heavy-drinking voluntary students comparatively respond to peer-led brief motivational interventions (BMIs) and the mediators and moderators of intervention effects. Research suggests that mandated students may be more defensive due to their involvement in treatment against their will and this defensiveness, in turn, may relate to treatment outcome. Furthermore, it is not clear how mandated and heavy-drinking voluntary students perceived satisfaction with peer-led BMIs relates to treatment outcomes. Using data from two separate randomized controlled trials, heavy drinking college students (heavy-drinking voluntary, n = 156; mandated, n = 82) completed a peer-led brief motivational intervention (BMI). Both mandated and heavy-drinking volunteer students significantly reduced drinking behaviors at 3-month follow-up, reported high levels of post-intervention session satisfaction, yet no effects for mediation or moderation were found. Findings offer continued support for using peer counselors to deliver BMIs; however, results regarding the mechanisms of change were in contrast to previous findings. Implications for treatment and future areas of research are discussed.