cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Process Improvement for Interinstitutional Research Contracting.

Introduction Sponsored research increasingly requires multiinstitutional collaboration. However, research contracting procedures have become more complicated and time consuming. The perinatal research units of two colocated healthcare systems sought to improve their research contracting processes. Methods The Lean Process, a management practice that iteratively involves team members in root cause analyses and process improvement, was applied to the research contracting process, initially using Process Mapping and then developing Problem Solving Reports. Results Root cause analyses revealed that the longest delays were the individual contract legal negotiations. In addition, the “business entity” was the research support personnel of both healthcare systems whose “customers” were investigators attempting to conduct interinstitutional research. Development of mutually acceptable research contract templates and language, chain of custody templates, and process development and refinement formats decreased the Notice of Grant Award to Purchase Order time from a mean of 103.5 days in the year prior to Lean Process implementation to 45.8 days in the year after implementation (p = 0.004). Conclusions The Lean Process can be applied to interinstitutional research contracting with significant improvement in contract implementation.
Kinematic and dynamic models of a tripod system with a passive leg

In this paper, a new tripod system is proposed for the light-metal machining application, and its kinematic and dynamic models are studied. The new tripod system is a type of parallel kinematic machine with three degrees of freedom, and it uses a passive leg to increase system stiffness and eliminate the undesired end-effector motion along some axes. Both the direct and inverse kinematic problems are solved, and the dynamic problem is modeled by applying the Newton-Euler approach. A case study is provided to validate the kinematic and dynamic models and illustrate this new tripod design.
Rates of projected climate change dramatically exceed past rates of climatic niche evolution among vertebrate species

A key question in predicting responses to anthropogenic climate change is: how quickly can species adapt to different climatic conditions? Here, we take a phylogenetic approach to this question. We use 17 timecalibrated phylogenies representing the major tetrapod clades (amphibians, birds, crocodilians, mammals, squamates, turtles) and climatic data from distributions of > 500 extant species. We estimate rates of change based on differences in climatic variables between sister species and estimated times of their splitting. We compare these rates to predicted rates of climate change from 2000 to 2100. Our results are striking: matching projected changes for 2100 would require rates of niche evolution that are > 10 000 times faster than rates typically observed among species, for most variables and clades. Despite many caveats, our results suggest that adaptation to projected changes in the next 100 years would require rates that are largely unprecedented based on observed rates among vertebrate species.
Palladin expression is a conserved characteristic of the desmoplastic tumor microenvironment and contributes to altered gene expression

The stroma surrounding solid tumors contributes in complex ways to tumor progression. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the predominant cell type in the tumor stroma. Previous studies have shown that the actin-binding protein palladin is highly expressed in the stroma of pancreas tumors, but the interpretation of these results is complicated by the fact that palladin exists as multiple isoforms. In the current study, the expression and localization of palladin isoform 4 was examined in normal specimens and adenocarcinomas of human pancreas, lung, colon, and stomach samples. Immunohistochemistry with isoform-selective antibodies revealed that expression of palladin isoform 4 was higher in adenocarcinomas versus normal tissues, and highest in CAFs. Immunohistochemistry staining revealed that palladin was present in both the cytoplasm and the nucleus of CAFs, and this was confirmed using immunofluorescence staining and subcellular fractionation of a pancreatic CAF cell line. To investigate the functional significance of nuclear palladin, RNA Seq analysis of palladin knockdown CAFs versus control CAFs was performed, and the results showed that palladin regulates the expression of genes involved in the biosynthesis and assembly of collagen, and organization of the extracellular matrix. These results suggested that palladin isoform 4 may play a conserved role in establishing the phenotype of CAFs in multiple tumor types.
Proximity effect: Numerical evaluation of the superconducting transition temperature

Abstract De Gennes' equation for the gap parameter in superposed films of normal and superconducting materials have been solved via a numerical technique. This is based upon a variation approach used by Silvert and Cooper. The solution indicates that the approximate analytical procedure used by Werthamer is accurate for thick-dirty films. However, for thinner cleaner films, our solutions leads to improvements as big as 25% over Werthamer's method. This improvement is mainly a result of our better treatment of the behavior of the gap parameter near the interface.
Large strain requirements for shear-induced crystallization of isotactic polypropylene

We studied strain effects on the crystallization of a series of isotactic polypropylenes (iPP) of various molecular weights using rheology, rheo-optical measurements, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and wide-angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD). The samples were pre-sheared and then crystallized both at the same temperature. Transmitted light intensity measurements demonstrate that the effect of pre-shear on crystallization rate keeps increasing with strain up to surprisingly large strain levels, much beyond strains that are required to reach steady shear flow (at given We). Crystal orientation sets in at a total strain of about % MathType!Translator!2!1!AMS LaTeX.tdl!TeX -- AMS-LaTeX! % MathType!MTEF!2!1!+- % feaaeaart1ev0aaatCvAUfeBSjuyZL2yd9gzLbvyNv2CaerbbjxAHX % garmWu51MyVXgatuuDJXwAK1uy0HwmaeHbfv3ySLgzG0uy0Hgip5wz % aebbnrfifHhDYfgasaacH8qrps0lbbf9q8WrFfeuY-Hhbbf9v8qqaq % Fr0xc9pk0xbba9q8WqFfea0-yr0RYxir-Jbba9q8aq0-yq-He9q8qq % Q8frFve9Fve9Ff0dmeaabaqaciGacaGaaeqabaWaaeWaeaaakeaacq % aHZoWzdaWgaaWcbaGaaGimaaqabaGccqGH9aqpcaaI2aGaaGimaiaa % icdaaaa!3D61! $$\gamma _{0} = 600$$ or higher. WAXD and DSC measurements corroborated the light transmission results. Total shear strains % MathType!Translator!2!1!AMS LaTeX.tdl!TeX -- AMS-LaTeX! % MathType!MTEF!2!1!+- % feaaeaart1ev0aaatCvAUfeBSjuyZL2yd9gzLbvyNv2CaerbbjxAHX % garmWu51MyVXgatuuDJXwAK1uy0HwmaeHbfv3ySLgzG0uy0Hgip5wz % aebbnrfifHhDYfgasaacH8qrps0lbbf9q8WrFfeuY-Hhbbf9v8qqaq % Fr0xc9pk0xbba9q8WqFfea0-yr0RYxir-Jbba9q8aq0-yq-He9q8qq % Q8frFve9Fve9Ff0dmeaabaqaciGacaGaaeqabaWaaeWaeaaakeaacq % aHZoWzdaWgaaWcbaGaaGimaaqabaGccqGH9aqpcaaIYaGaaGimaiaa % icdaaaa!3D5D! $$\gamma _{0} = 200$$ to 1000 were applied to the iPP samples at the beginning of a crystallization experiment, after the samples had reached the crystallization temperature of 145°C (under-cooled state). A constant Weissenberg number We=1 (We is defined as the product of shear rate and a relaxation time) was maintained for all pre-shearing of this study. We=1 corresponds to the onset of shear thinning in steady shear. Deborah number values were low, De<<1, indicating that steady shear flow had been reached in all pre-shearing runs (De is defined as the ratio of relaxation time to pre-shearing time). Further studies are needed at high We as there are indications that strain requirements are much reduced at high We. A fundamental understanding is still missing.
Labouring to Make the Good Wife Good in the journées chrétiennes and Le Menagier de Paris

This paper focuses on two related moments of hybridity in late medieval conduct literature concerned with the management of the conduct of the good wife's daily life. First, it examines the fusion of clerical and lay authority found in the so-called journees chretiennes , a group of texts written by clerics to help lay people lead a contemplative life from within the married estate. Second, it considers the epistemological confusion evident in a similar attempt to navigate the interpenetration of lay and clerical experience in the opening sections of Le Menagier de Paris . It concludes that such texts make possible, through the labour of their performative reading practices, a process of textual and cultural enrichment that allows their readers to engage with the social in new ways.
On the determinants of Original Sin: an empirical investigation

Most countries do not borrow abroad in their own currency, a fact that has been referred to as ‘‘Original Sin’’. This paper describes the incidence of the problem and makes an attempt at uncovering its cause. The paper finds weak support for the idea that the level of development, institutional quality, or monetary credibility or fiscal solvency is correlated with Original Sin. Only the absolute size of the economy is robustly correlated. The paper also explores the determinants of a country’s capacity to borrow at home at long duration and in local currency. It finds that monetary credibility and the presence of capital controls are positively correlated with this capacity. # 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
A knowledge-based assistant for pesticide identification

The Pesticide Identification Assistant (PIA) is a knowledge-based system designed to assist an analytical chemist with the identification of pesticide residues in food products using gas-liquid chromatography. The data are in the form of retention times and detector responses for a particular sample. The PIA system aids the analytic chemist in identifying the corresponding residue. The system has four goals: simplify routine analysis; provide interactive training for new analysts; provide an infallible memory supplement for experienced analysts; and provide a means of capturing expertise vulnerable to loss through retirement. A description is given of the problem domain and implementation concerns are addressed, particularly knowledge representation, inference techniques and user interface design. Particular challenges posed by the problem domain, particularly in the area of uncertainty, are considered. Plans for expansion and further research with the system are indicated. >
Probing the kinetic and thermodynamic consequences of the tetraloop/tetraloop receptor monovalent ion-binding site in P4-P6 RNA by smFRET.

Structured RNA molecules play roles in central biological processes and understanding the basic forces and features that govern RNA folding kinetics and thermodynamics can help elucidate principles that underlie biological function. Here we investigate one such feature, the specific interaction of monovalent cations with a structured RNA, the P4–P6 domain of the Tetrahymena ribozyme. We employ single molecule FRET (smFRET) approaches as these allow determination of folding equilibrium and rate constants over a wide range of stabilities and thus allow direct comparisons without the need for extrapolation. These experiments provide additional evidence for specific binding of monovalent cations, Na+ and K+, to the RNA tetraloop–tetraloop receptor (TL–TLR) tertiary motif. These ions facilitate both folding and unfolding, consistent with an ability to help order the TLR for binding and further stabilize the tertiary contact subsequent to attainment of the folding transition state.
Bilateral optic disc edema in patients with severe systemic arterial hypertension: clinical features and visual acuity outcomes.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE To report clinical features and visual outcomes in patients with bilateral optic disc edema and severe systemic arterial hypertension. PATIENTS AND METHODS Records were reviewed of patients with bilateral optic disc edema, severe arterial hypertension, and 3 or more months of follow-up evaluated at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute between 1982 and 2003. RESULTS Sixteen patients (median age = 41 years; median follow-up = 31 months) were identified. Median blood pressure on initial eye examination was 220 mm Hg systolic and 126 mm Hg diastolic. Among all study eyes, median visual acuity was 20/55 on presentation. At the last follow-up examination, an acuity of 20/50 or better was achieved in 20 (63%) eyes; 12 (75%) patients achieved a final acuity of 20/50 or better in at least one eye. Posterior segment abnormalities at last follow-up included disc pallor (n = 16), macular star (n = 7), retinal pigment epithelial atrophy (n = 7), epiretinal membrane (n = 5), branch retinal vein occlusion (n = 4), and persistent disc edema (n = 2). Causes of final acuity of less than 20/50 included optic atrophy, epiretinal membrane, serous retinal detachment, macular hole, and branch retinal vein occlusion. CONCLUSION Most patients with bilateral optic disc edema and severe arterial hypertension maintained visual acuity of 20/50 or better in at least one eye.
Use of sensory substitution devices as a model system for investigating cross-modal neuroplasticity in humans

Blindness provides an unparalleled opportunity to study plasticity of the nervous system in humans. Seminal work in this area examined the often dramatic modifications to the visual cortex that result when visual input is completely absent from birth or very early in life (Kupers and Ptito, 2014). More recent studies explored what happens to the visual pathways in the context of acquired blindness. This is particularly relevant as the majority of diseases that cause vision loss occur in the elderly. Our lab and others have demonstrated compromised visual pathway integrity in those with peri-natal and acquired blindness (Schoth et al., 2006; Chan et al., 2012; Li et al., 2013; Lee et al., 2014; Dietrich et al., 2015; Ho et al., 2015; Reislev et al., 2015). Additional studies have begun to examine the changes occurring with certain disease states: patients suffering from retinitis pigmentosa, optic neuritis, and glaucoma, all so far demonstrate deterioration of the white matter tract architecture as a function of disease severity (Garaci et al., 2009; Gabilondo et al., 2014; Ohno et al., 2015). This evidence indicates that the visual system as a whole is profoundly susceptible to degeneration even with small amounts of vision loss. On the surface, these investigations appear to have negative implications for vision restoration efforts. Yet, parallel studies which examine the phenomenon of cross-modal plasticity suggest that a remodeling of the central nervous system is possible, such that areas of the brain which have been deprived of normal afferent input are able to reconstitute themselves to be receptive to alternative sensory channels (Merabet and Pascual-Leone, 2010; Kupers and Ptito, 2014). The literature includes several examples of investigations which show that the visual cortex will react to tactile and auditory stimuli in the blind but will be less readily recruited in sighted patients (Merabet and Pascual-Leone, 2010). Moreover, cross-modal interactions have been demonstrated well beyond the traditional “critical period” and into late adulthood, albeit perhaps in a less robust fashion (Sadato et al., 2002; Bedny et al., 2012; Collignon et al., 2013). The notion that the adult brain is still capable of significant structural and functional remodeling after vision loss provides opportunities to restore vision through mechanical or biological means.
Multiresolution and Adaptive Path Planning for Maneuver of Micro-Air-Vehicles in Urban Environments

This paper addresses adaptive path planning and control of autonomous micro-air-vehicles (MAVs) in urban environments. The objective is to navigate a MAV from one point to another in an unknown urban environment. A key consideration in such environments is the ability to estimate the locations of obstacles that may lie in the path of the vehicle. In this study, obstacle estimation is achieved using an adaptive multiresolution-based learning algorithm. This algorithm generates an approximation of the environment based on estimates of the locations of points on the surface of an obstacle, typically obtained using structure from motion analyses. The overall flight control problem is formulated as a receding horizon control problem, which entails extremizing a performance functional over a moving window in time to determine the optimal control inputs. Receding horizon control represents an extremely general framework for addressing the problem of autonomous flight in urban environments. Most importantly, it allows for the incorporation of multiple constraints in the optimization problem so that obstacle avoidance can be achieved by enforcing constraints on the aircraft states. Receding horizon control is achieved by solving many small-scale optimization problems. Considerable computational savings can be realized compared to solving for optimal control strategies over the full time scale of interest. In addition, it is possible to update the constraints based on new information such as updated estimates of obstacle shape. The main objective of this paper is to study the receding horizon control problem in which the adaptive learning algorithm is used to estimate the obstacle map from visual data. An important consideration in future studies will be the stability of this control algorithm as it is well understood that receding horizon control approaches do not enjoy the same stability properties as infinite-horizon optimal control methods. Some specific path planning and control strategies that fall within the receding horizon control framework are discussed, and examples of terrain estimation using the adaptive learning algorithm are presented.
Who's not driving among U.S. high school seniors: A closer look at race/ethnicity, socioeconomic factors, and driving status.

ABSTRACTObjectives: We examined associations among race/ethnicity, socioeconomic factors, and driving status in a nationally representative sample of >26,000 U.S. high school seniors.Methods: Weighted data from the 2012 and 2013 Monitoring the Future surveys were combined and analyzed. We imputed missing values using fully conditional specification multiple imputation methods. Multivariate logistic regression modeling was conducted to explore associations among race/ethnicity, socioeconomic factors, and driving status, while accounting for selected student behaviors and location. Lastly, odds ratios were converted to prevalence ratios.Results: 23% of high school seniors did not drive during an average week; 14% of white students were nondrivers compared to 40% of black students. Multivariate analysis revealed that minority students were 1.8 to 2.5 times more likely to be nondrivers than their white counterparts, and students who had no earned income were 2.8 times more likely to be nondrivers than those e...
A Multiple-Case Study Examining Teachers' Use of iPod Touches in Their Pedagogical Practices for English Language Learners

Mobile technology has been noted as a valuable resource for students in K-12 education and potentially for English language learners (ELL). ELL students enter schools with different levels of English proficiency and teaching such a population often presents a daunting academic challenge. Using mobile devices for learning holds certain potentials as the literature indicates. Benefits of mobile technology such as flexibility, accessibility, interactivity, and motivation and engagement have been documented. This multiple-case study examines ELL teachers’ use of the iPod touch in their instruction at elementary, middle, and high school levels to understand how such mobile devices are used and the teachers’ perception of using them.
Ferroelectrics and ferromagnetics as memory devices

Storage of binary information in the stationary field of a ferromagnetic ring or a ferroelectric slab promises a neat solution to one of the most vexing problems in the digital computer field, the problem of “remembering” and making available a very large number of binary “words” rapidly and efficiently. The flux remanence and non-linear characteristics of the “rectangular” hysteresis loop simplify the information-retention and the work-selection aspects of the problem tremendously.
Does the Buck Stop Here? Board Responsibility for FCPA Compliance

This article focuses on the corporation law aspect of “corporate compliance,” i.e., how the legal structure of the corporation should, but often does not, ensure compliance. It explains that a corporation’s board of directors, legally obligated to manage the business in the interests of the corporation and its shareholders, should run the firm in order to avoid costly violations of the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) or other laws. In addition, the article explains that because the fiduciary duties of directors are in principle enforceable by shareholders, the specter of shareholder suit against directors who violate their duties and allow the firm to operate illegally should result in corporate compliance with the FCPA, or at least should provide a remedy to shareholders if directors fail, and violations occur. This article shows, however, that the fiduciary duties of directors are at best weak reeds in practice. Although there are certainly many fine directors, fiduciary duties in fact legally require directors to do very little and it is nearly impossible for a shareholder to obtain a judicial remedy against a faithless director. This article argues that several decades of Delaware court decisions, combined with legislation enabling director exculpation in nearly every state, have resulted the evisceration of director fiduciary duties and remedies for their violation. This article then looks closely at the allegations of FCPA violations and a cover-up of the same in the mid-2000s by Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.’s Mexican subsidiary. This article looks at the ill-fated shareholder derivative suits claiming breach of fiduciary duties by the Wal-Mart board members that were filed in the wake of the FCPA allegations. This article concludes that a return to the basics of corporation law, with enforceable fiduciary duties imposed on board members, might improve compliance with the FCPA.
Not over Moses' Dead Body: Jude 9, 22-24 and the Assumption of Moses in their Early Jewish Context

Jude 9 refers to a story in which the archangel Michael disputes with the devil about the body of Moses. Although the story cited by Jude has not been preserved, the literature of early Judaism con...
Regulation of Tissue-Specific Gene Expression in the Mammary Gland: The Role of the Extracellular Matrix

Specific interactions between cells and the extracellular matrix (ECM) with which they are in contact play a vital role in tissue organization (1,2). Such interactions are important for directed migration of embryonic cells during development (1,3,4), and for tissue induction during morphogenesis (3,4). It has been established in many model systems, of which the mammary gland is a prime example, that ECM components can support induction and maintenance of tissue-specific function in epithelial cells placed in culture (5,6,7). One important feature of this induction is the modulation of cell shape by interaction with ECM components (5,6,8). In addition to its effects in regulating cell shape and differentiated gene expression, the ECM also exerts an important influence on cell growth and division (10). In transformed cells, progressive loss of differentiated function, altered morphology, and unchecked growth reflect loss of the ability to respond to the external signals that control these functions in normal cells (11).
Correlation of J-number, optimum pressure and spectral type in methyl fluoride Raman FIR lasers

A four-level density matrix approach is used to show that the experimentally observed three-way correlation between J number, the local gain spectrum and the optimum operating pressure results primarily from pressure broadening effects.
Effectiveness of a Peer Navigation Intervention to Sustain Viral Suppression Among HIV-Positive Men and Transgender Women Released From Jail: The LINK LA Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance Diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, linkage and retention in care, and adherence to antiretroviral therapy are steps in the care continuum enabling consistent viral suppression for people living with HIV, extending longevity and preventing further transmission. While incarcerated, people living with HIV receive antiretroviral therapy and achieve viral suppression more consistently than after they are released. No interventions have shown sustained viral suppression after jail release. Objective To test the effect on viral suppression in released inmates of the manualized LINK LA (Linking Inmates to Care in Los Angeles) peer navigation intervention compared with standard transitional case management controls. Design, Setting, and Participants Randomized clinical trial conducted from December 2012 through October 2016 with people living with HIV being released from Los Angeles (LA) County Jail. All participants were (1) 18 years or older; (2) either men or transgender women diagnosed with HIV; (3) English speaking; (4) selected for the transitional case management program prior to enrollment; (5) residing in LA County; and (6) eligible for antiretroviral therapy. Main Outcomes and Measures Change in HIV viral suppression ( Interventions During the 12-session, 24-week LINK LA Peer Navigation intervention, trained peer navigators counseled participants on goal setting and problem solving around barriers to HIV care and adherence, starting while the participants were still in jail. After their release, they continued counseling while they accompanied participants to 2 HIV care visits, then facilitated communication with clinicians during visits. Results Of 356 participants randomized, 151 (42%) were black; 110 (31%) were Latino; 303 (85%) were men; 53 (15%) were transgender women; and the mean (SD) age was 39.5 (10.4) years. At 12 months, viral suppression was achieved by 62 (49.6%) of 125 participants in the peer navigation (intervention) arm compared with 45 (36.0%) of 125 in the transitional case management (control) arm, for an unadjusted treatment difference of 13.6% (95% CI, 1.34%-25.9%; P = .03). In the repeated measures, random effects, logistic model the adjusted probability of viral suppression declined from 52% at baseline to 30% among controls, while those in the peer navigation arm maintained viral suppression at 49% from baseline to 12 months, for a difference-in-difference of 22% (95% CI, 0.03-0.41; P = .02). Conclusions and Relevance The LINK LA peer navigation intervention was successful at preventing declines in viral suppression, typically seen after release from incarceration, compared with standard transitional case management. Future research should examine ways to strengthen the intervention to increase viral suppression above baseline levels. Trial Registration clinicaltrials.gov Identifier:NCT01406626
Model-Checking to Exploit Sequential Clock-Gating

Dynamic power reduction techniques such as sequential clock-gating aim at eliminating inconsequential computation and clock-toggles of the registers. Usually, sequential clock-gating opportunities are discovered manually based on certain characteristics of a design (e.g. pipelining). Since manual addition of sequential gating circuitry might change the functionality of the design, sequential equivalence checking is needed after such changes. Tools for sequential equivalence checking are expensive, and based on recent technologies. Therefore, it is desirable to automate the discovery of sequential clock-gating opportunities using already existing and proven technologies such as model checking and thereby a priori proving that the changes will not affect the required functionality. Model Checking Based Sequential Clock Gating (MCBCG) method formally proves particular sequential dependencies of registers on other registers and logic, thus sequentially gating such registers will not require further validation. An automation scheme for MCBCG methodology is also proposed in this chapter. Our experiments show up to 30% more savings than the traditional (combinational) clock-gating based power reduction techniques. We further experimented the approach to find out the savings opportunities exist in HLS tools. This further suggests that at high-level finding such opportunities might be very benefical for HLS based design flow.
Theoretical Examination of Keeling-plot Relationships for Carbon Dioxide in a Temperate Broadleaved Forest with a Biophysical Model, CANISOTOPE

Over the past 20 years a series of field studies have been conducted on the carbon, water, and energy exchange of a temperate broadleaved forest. Through that work a biophysical model, CANOAK, was developed for computing fluxes of carbon and water between the forest and the atmosphere. The model's use of Lagrangian, random-walk diffusion theory to compute turbulent diffusion of trace gases within and above the canopy enables it to consider counter-gradient transport in the vicinity of canopy sources and sinks. Recently, this model has been adapted to investigate environmental and plant factors that control the flux density and discrimination of the stable isotope 13 CO 2 , producing a new model called CANISOTOPE. This chapter uses the micrometeorological-based CANISOTOPE model to analyze the isotopic contents of a forest canopy produced by “Keeling plots.” It aims to study how hypothetical changes in turbulent mixing, photosynthesis and respiration, canopy structure, and physiological capacity alter Keeling plot intercepts.
Clinicopathologic study of the resected carotid artery: Analysis of sixty-four cases*

Summary Sixty-four resected specimens of the carotid artery taken from patients with cancer of the head and neck were studied microscopically. Forty-five patients received preoperative radiation therapy to the neck, twenty-four of them having supervoltage treatment. Eleven of these arteries ruptured, and thirty-seven demonstrated direct tumor invasion of the arterial wall. Premature atherosclerosis was noted in fifteen instances.
A radioimmunoassay for gamma-melanocyte stimulating hormone.

A specific radioimmunoassay for ..gamma..-melanocyte stimulating hormone-like peptides was developed. An antiserum raised in rabbit to synthetic bovine ..gamma../sub 3/-MSH, one of the possible ..gamma..-MSH peptides, specifically recognizes the portion between His/sup 5/ and Arg/sup 14/ of ..gamma../sub 3/-MSH without significant cross-reaction with other synthetic ..gamma..-MSH-like peptides, ..cap alpha..-, ..beta..-MSH, adrenocorticotropin, and ..beta..-endorphin. The usable range of this RIA is 10 pg to 600 pg of synthetic ..gamma../sub 3/-MSH. Three immunoreactive ..gamma..-MSH peaks were thus found in gel permeation chromatography of the whole bovine pituitary extract.
Characterization of multiple human cytochrome P-450 1 cDNAs. The chromosomal localization of the gene and evidence for alternate RNA splicing.

Employing the rabbit liver progesterone-21-hydroxylase P-450 1 cDNA as a probe (Tukey, R.H., Okino, S., Barnes, H., Griffin, K.J., and Johnson, E.F. (1985) J. Biol. Chem. 260, 13347-13354), we have identified a highly homologous (81% within the coding region) human liver cDNA, termed Hp1-1, that encodes a 490-amino acid protein. Comparison of the predicted translation products between the human and rabbit homologues demonstrates that the two proteins are 73% homologous, while increasing to 82% similarity when allowing for conserved amino changes. The human P-450 1 is 82% homologous to the s-mephenytoin 4-hydroxylase (Umbenhauer, D. R., Martin, M. V., Lloyd, R. S., and Guengerich, F. P. (1987) Biochemistry 26, 1094-1099). Southern blot analysis using various portions of the human P-450 1 cDNA as probes indicates that the human P-450 1 gene is part of a larger gene family but can be selectively identified by using a 3'-noncoding portion of the cDNA. Identification of the gene from a panel of human-rodent somatic cell hybrids using the conserved 3' portion of the human P-450 1 cDNA as a probe places the location of the gene on human chromosome 10. Results are also presented which demonstrate that the human P-450 1 gene transcript is processed by an alternate RNA-splicing mechanism that generates two mRNA products, one which represents the functional transcript, and the other a form of mRNA that is not capable of encoding a functional P-450.
The effect of the Harvard architecture on the teaching of assembly language

We present here the description of a first assembly language course which uses chips with a modified Harvard architecture, rather than the usual von Neumann architecture. This means that instruction and data memory are separate, allowing instruction sizes to be unrestricted to multiples of 8. These are microcontroller chips, which are the ones in cars, toys, appliances, and the like. There are more of them today than any other computer, which motivates our interest in teaching them. Also, unlike most computers, they are programmed in assembly language more commonly today than in any other way.
Campus Sexual Assault: How Oregon University System Schools Respond

College is usually thought of as a time where students, often living alone for their first time, are encouraged towards healthy risk-taking behavior, as well as social, intellectual, and vocational development. Unfortunately for female students, college becomes the time of their lives where they are exposed to the highest risk of sexual victimization. Many colleges across America have taken steps to address the significant problem of sexual assault on their campuses. However, even with rising concern about the sexual victimization of college students, there remains very little systematic information published about the content of sexual assault policies, protocols and programs that exist on college campuses. Focusing on the seven schools of the Oregon University System (OUS), this study sought to examine the schools’ sexual assault policies, as well as their prevention and response efforts to sexual assault. Additionally schools’ willingness for assistance and training from Oregon Sexual Assault Task Force (OSATF) was also studied. Specifically, official school sexual assault policies were content analysis and secondary survey data gathered by the OSATF was examined. Results demonstrated that, in most cases, policies of the OUS schools were vague in their definitions of what constituted a sexual assault, and lacked the additional information necessary for victims to respond to their sexual victimization. However, Universities also offered various forms of educational opportunities and awareness raising activities. While this proves promising, there is clearly room for improvement. OUS schools also appeared willing ii to work with the OSATF to improve the delivery of their sexual assault prevention services. The findings of this thesis are important in directing future actions of the OUS when developing and implementing sexual assault response and prevention strategies.
Introduction to the Special Issue: Best Papers Presented at the OLC 2017 Accelerate Conference on Online Learning and the Innovate 2018 Conference

Introduction to the Special Issue: Best Papers Presented at the OLC 2017 Accelerate Conference on Online Learning and the Innovate 2018 Conference
Improving survival after an emergency resuscitative thoracotomy: a 5-year review of the Trauma Quality Improvement Program

Background Advancement in trauma care has led to the evolution of emergency resuscitative thoracotomy (ERT) for the revival of trauma patients. We now have more precise understanding of selecting suitable patients for achieving optimal outcomes. The aim of our study was to analyze the utilization and survival trends during the past 5 years, as well as factors that influence survival after ERT. Methods A 5-year (2010-2014) analysis of all trauma patients ≥18 years who underwent ERT in the American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Improvement Program. Outcome measures were utilization rates and survival trends after ERT during the 5-year period. Regression analysis was performed. Results 2229 patients underwent ERT, mean age was 37±17 years, 81% were male. Overall 56% patients had penetrating mechanism, location of major injury was thorax in 48, and 71% had signs of life (SOL) on arrival. The overall survival rate was 9.6%. From 2010–2014 ERT utilization has decreased from 331/100 000 to 243/100 000 trauma admissions (p=0.002) and the survival rate has improved from 7.9% to 11.3% (p 60 years with a blunt mechanism of injury (MOI) survived, and there were no survivors above the age of 70 years, regardless of injury mechanism. Discussion Utilization of ERT has been decreased during the study period along with improved survival rates. The results of our study demonstrate that performing ERT on patients aged >60 years with a blunt MOI or on any patient aged ≥70 years, regardless of MOI, is futile and should be avoided. Level of evidence Level III, prognostic studies.
Improving PROMs collection rate in an outpatient palliative care clinic.

105Background: From January 2018 to March 2018, Dana Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI) launched a pilot to collect Patient-Reported Outcomes of the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (PRO-CTCAE) within the adult palliative care (APC) clinic using smart tablets. We had a limited response rate—only 20% of patients attempted to complete the questionnaire. After the pilot ended on March 2018, smart tablets were discontinued and were replaced with a paper version of PRO-CTCAE from April to June 2018. Our aim was to increase the patient attempt and collection rate of the paper PRO-CTCAE from 20% to 50%. Methods: Our primary outcome measure was the percentage of paper PRO-CTCAE attempted and collected. Eligible patients were established patients scheduled to see a provider in the APC clinic. We implemented several Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles including the implementation of the paper version of the questionnaire, training and educating front desk staff, and posting provider reminders in exam rooms. W...
Label free biosensing enabled by ultraviolet plasmonics (Conference Presentation)

UV plasmonic materials such as aluminum and magnesium have drawn attention in recent years due to their potential applications in plasmonic enhanced label free sensing and UV light sources and detectors. In this paper, nanoapertures in Al and Mg thin film have been used to study the lifetime modification and net fluorescence intensity of the freely diffusing UV dye p-terphenyl. Previously, Jiao et al reported lifetime reduction of 3.5 times for Al nanoapertures with diameter 60nm. In this paper, lifetime reduction of 5.4 times is observed for Al nanoapertures with smaller diameter 40nm. For the firs time, lifetime modification in Mg nanoapertures is reported. For the same aperture geometry, Mg nanoaperture show higher Purcell factor and excitation enhancement due to lower loss of Mg in UV range . We observe 7.3 times lifetime reduction for Mg nanoapertures with 40nm diameter. We also studied numerically bowtie antenna for native fluorescent enhancement and have observed ~180x net enhancement, ~35x radiative rate enhancement. Those results suggest that label free sensing of amino acids and proteins are promising.
Employment among unaccompanied women experiencing homelessness

Women represent one of the fastest growing segments of the homeless population and employment is often central exiting homelessness. However, little research considers employment experiences among ...
Growth of Nodular Corrosion Products on Fe-Al Alloys in Various High-Temperature Gaseous Environments

The mechanisms for nodular corrosion-product development were investigatedin various high-temperature gaseous environments. Fe–Al alloys, with5–20 wt.% Al, were exposed in both oxidizing and sulfidizing[p(S2)=10−4 atm, p(O2)=10−25 atm] atmospheres at 700°Cfor times up to 100 hr. The corrosion kinetics were monitored by theuse of a thermogravimetric balance and the morphological developmentthrough light-optical and scanning-electron microscopies,energy-dispersive spectroscopy, electron-probe microanalysis,and quantitative-image analysis. Under both conditions, theelimination of nodule formation was observed by increasing thealuminum content of the alloy, above 5 and 7.5 wt.% Al for oxidizingand sulfidizing environments, respectively, which promoted the growthand maintenance of a continuous surface scale of alumina. For thosealloys that were observed to develop nodular corrosion products, theirmorphological appearance was similar in nature regardless of thecorroding species. The nodules typically consisted of an outeriron-rich product, either sulfide or oxide, that was randomly dispersedacross an alumina scale. Samples from the oxidizing atmosphere displayeda single growth-rate time constant from the kinetics data, suggesting thatthe nodule growth mechanism was by the simultaneous or codevelopment oftwo different (Fe and Al) oxides from the onset of exposure. Measurementof nodule planar diameter and depth of penetration into the alloyindicated that growth occurred through diffusional processes. Kineticsdata from the development of sulfide nodules in the reducingenvironment revealed a different type of mechanism. Multiplegrowth-rate time constants were found due to the localized mechanicalfailure of an initially formed surface scale. At early times in thesulfidizing atmosphere, a low corrosion rate was recorded as acontinuous-alumina scale afforded protection from excessive productdevelopment. However, with the mechanical failure of the scale, sulfurwas able to attack the underlying substrate through a short-circuitdiffusion mechanism that resulted in rapid weight gains from nonprotective,iron sulfide growth. The sulfide morphologies observed were very complex ascontinued growth of the nodule did not solely depend upon the diffusingspecies through the previously formed corrosion products, but also,continued mechanical failure of the oxide scale. It is suggested that thedifference in development mechanisms between the two environments may liein the relative growth rates of the nonprotective, Fe-base corrosionproducts formed.
Broadening the scope of our understanding of mechanisms: lessons from the history of the morning-after pill

Philosophers of science and medicine now aspire to provide useful, socially relevant accounts of mechanism. Existing accounts have forged the path by attending to mechanisms in historical context, scientific practice, the special sciences, and policy. Yet, their primary focus has been on more proximate issues related to therapeutic effectiveness. To take the next step toward social relevance, we must investigate the challenges facing researchers, clinicians, and policy makers involving values and social context. Accordingly, we learn valuable lessons about the connections between mechanistic processes and more fundamental reasons for (or against) medical interventions, particularly moral, ethical, religious, and political concerns about health, agency, and power. This paper uses debates over the controversial morning-after pill (emergency contraception) to gain insight into the deeper reasons for the production and use of mechanistic knowledge throughout biomedical research, clinical practice, and governmental regulation. To practice socially relevant philosophy of science, I argue that we need to account for mechanistic knowledge beyond immediate effectiveness, such as how it can also provide moral guidance, aid ethical categorization in the clinic, and function as a political instrument. Such insights have implications for medical epistemology, including the value-laden dimensions of mechanistic reasoning and the “epistemic friction” of values. Furthermore, there are broader impacts for teaching research ethics and understanding the role of science advisors as political advocates.
Femoroacetabular Impingement in the Adolescent Athlete

Femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) is a source of hip pain that can present in adolescent athletes and is related to sports participation and extreme use in these patients. FAIS is characterized by morphologic abnormalities of the acetabulum and/or proximal femur that leads to pathologic contact within the hip joint. FAIS is classified as cam-type, pincer-type, or combined. Early sports participation is a factor in the development of symptomatic FAIS. Adolescent patients with FAIS are also more likely to have associated extra-articular pathologies. History and physical exam findings in adolescents with FAIS are not considerably different than corresponding findings in adults with FAIS and include activity-related groin pain aggravated by pivoting and flexion activities. FAIS can be treated conservatively or surgically. In refractory cases, outcomes after surgical intervention have been shown to be significantly better than nonsurgical treatment. Surgical intervention involves repairing damage to the labrum and/or cartilage and decompressing the bony impingement. Open and arthroscopic approaches have been shown to be safe and effective in adolescents with good outcomes. Most adolescent athletes are able to return to participation in their sport and a majority returning to their preinjury level of play after surgical intervention.
Impact of Trigger Criteria on Frequency of Family Care Conferences in Pediatric Intensive Care Unit

Purpose: The purpose of our study is to improve the frequency of family care conferences (FCC) in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) by using formalized trigger criteria. Methods: Using previously described characteristics of family care conferences held in the PICU (1), a multidisciplinary team including physicians, nursing, and case management formalized criteria to trigger FCC (Figure 1). Pre-intervention chart review was performed from 07/2016 through 09/2016. Documentation templates were created and made available in the electronic medical record. All staff were provided with comprehensive education including review of …
Authenticity and Strategy: Opportunities for Integration

Growing evidence suggests that authenticity matters for organizational outcomes. Recent work highlights that perceptions of the firm’s authenticity, (i.e., its “realness” or “genuineness”), often i...
Next Level Communication

Communication failure has been a well-identified cause of medical error and subsequent patient injury. Despite numerous studies of how poor communication impacts team performance and articles suggesting strategies for improving communication, preventable medical errors persist as the number 3 killer in the United States. The Joint Commission has cited communication as the number one root cause of sentinel events. There are different types of communication failure and many factors that contribute to it. Challenges to effective communication can be mitigated by participating in formalized communication improvement processes and engagement in both personal and group training. Standardization of methods and utilization of structured communication tools can support high-level communication, personalization of patient care, and decreased errors.
ACL Reconstruction in the Multiple Ligament Injured Knee

Multiple ligament knee injuries are complex and can result from sports injuries or high energy trauma. The proper diagnosis and treatment of multiple ligament knee injuries are essential, and careful evaluation and planning are required to achieve successful outcomes. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction in the multiple ligament injured knee is complicated by several factors, necessitating additional technical considerations. Patient selection, surgical timing, graft selection, and surgical technique require consideration specific to the ACL component of these injuries. We present a summary of the current knowledge with respect to the treatment of ACL injuries in the context of the multiple ligament injured knee.