cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Detection of 3,3′-Dichlorobiphenyl in Human Maternal Plasma and Its Effects on Axonal and Dendritic Growth in Primary Rat Neurons

3,3'-Dichlorobiphenyl (PCB 11), a byproduct of pigment production, is increasingly detected in environmental samples. While more highly chlorinated PCB congeners are known developmental neurotoxicants, nothing is known about the potential developmental neurotoxicity of PCB 11. To address this critical data gap, we measured PCB 11 levels in human maternal plasma and quantified the effects of PCB 11 and its major metabolites on morphometric parameters of neuronal connectivity in cultured primary neurons. Mass spectrometry analyses of plasma from 241 pregnant women enrolled in the MARBLES study (University of California, Davis) detected PCB 11 in all samples at concentrations ranging from 0.005 to 1.717 ng/ml. Morphometric analyses of primary neuron-glia co-cultures dissociated from the neocortices or hippocampi of neonatal Sprague Dawley rats exposed to vehicle or concentrations ranging from 1 attamolar (aM) to 1 micromolar (µM) of PCB 11, OH-PCB 11, or PCB 11 sulfate indicated that PCB 11 and both metabolites significantly increased axonal and dendritic growth in cortical and hippocampal pyramidal neurons. PCB 11 significantly altered neuronal morphogenesis at concentrations as low as 1 femtomolar (fM), which is ∼0.22 ng/ml. These data suggest the potential for the developing human brain to be exposed to PCB 11, and demonstrate that environmentally relevant levels of PCB 11 alter axonal and dendritic growth in neuronal cell types critically involved in cognitive and higher-order behaviors. These findings identify PCB 11 as a potential environmental risk factor for adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in humans.
The Hispanic Paradox in endometrial cancer: A National Cancer Database study

Abstract Objective To compare the overall survival of non-Hispanic white and Hispanic women with endometrial cancer. Methods We performed an observational retrospective cohort study of Hispanic and non-Hispanic women with endometrial cancer from the 2004–2014 National Cancer Database. Baseline characteristics were compared with the Chi-squared test for categorical variables or the Mann-Whitney U test for ordinal or continuous variables. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate unadjusted survival times, which were compared with the log-rank test. Missing data was imputed using multiple imputation with chained equations. A multivariable parametric accelerated failure time model for survival was used. Sensitivity analyses were performed using matched cohort analyses of the overall cohort, and of subgroups based on stage or type. Results 112,574 non-Hispanic and 6313 Hispanic women met inclusion criteria. Five-year survival was slightly higher for Hispanic women (83.1% (82.1–84.3%) versus 81.4% (81.2–81.7%), P=0.002). Hispanic women were younger, treated at lower volume hospitals, and more often diagnosed with a type II histology and stage II–IV disease compared to non-Hispanic women (all P Conclusion Hispanic ethnicity was not associated with a clinically meaningful difference in survival among women with endometrial cancer.
Abstract 41: Stroke Unit Evaluation of Sleep Apnea: Validity of Screening Tools and Use of a Portable Sleep Study

Background: Despite high prevalence in the stroke population, sleep apnea is underdiagnosed. Obstructive sleep apnea is associated with poor cardiovascular outcomes and treatment with continuous po...
Toward a Diagnostic and Prognostic Method for Knowledge-Driven Decision-Making in Smart Manufacturing Technologies

Making high-quality manufacturing decisions in real-time is difficult. Smart manufacturing requires sufficient knowledge be available to the decision maker to ensure the manufacturing system runs efficiently and effectively. This paper will present background information for managing and controlling decision-making and technological innovation. We present a process definition for decision-making that implements closed-loop diagnostic and prognostic control. Lastly, we discuss our emerging concept relative to smart manufacturing.
Effects of nitrogen delivery on chitin nanofiber production during batch cultivation of the diatom Cyclotella sp. in a bubble column photobioreactor

The photosynthetic diatom Cyclotella sp. extrudes chitin nanofibers following cell division. This diatom requires silicon for cell wall biosynthesis and division, as well as nitrogen for biosynthesis of intracellular material and extracellular chitin, an N-acetyl glucosamine biopolymer. The initial nitrogen/silicon molar ratio was the critical parameter for assessing the limits of nitrogen delivery on cell number and chitin production during batch cultivation of Cyclotella in a bubble column photobioreactor under silicon-limited growth conditions, using nitrate as the nitrogen source. The peak rate of volumetric chitin production increased linearly, from 3.0 to 46 mg chitin L−1 day−1, with increasing N/Si ratio over the range studied (0.82 to 8.6 mol N mol−1 Si). However, the cell number yield and the chitin yield per cell increased asymptotically with increasing N/Si ratio, achieving a final cell number yield of 5.3 × 109 ± 2.6 × 108 cells mol−1 Si and chitin yield of 28.7 ± 1.2 mg chitin per 109 cells (1.0 S.E.). An N/Si ratio of at least 4.0 mol N mol−1 Si achieved 90% of the asymptotic chitin yield. This study has shown that scalable cultivation systems for maximizing chitin nanofiber production will require delivery of both silicon and optimal nitrogen under silicon-limiting growth conditions to promote cell division and subsequent chitin formation.
Adolescent Substance Abuse and Suicidal Behavior

This article reviews and updates reported clinical studies on the relationship between substance use and substance-use disorders and suicidal behavior among adolescents. Issues regarding prevention of suicidal behavior are critically discussed, and suggestions for improving interventions are addressed.
Urban Development and Mass Killing: A First Look at the Data

This chapter presents the empirical research design adopted to test our main hypothesis. We discuss how we constructed and our annual 0.5-degree grid cell-year sample of nondemocratic states and explain why this grid cell-year framework is appropriate for testing our main hypothesis. This is followed by a description of how we operationalized our dependent variable and one of the independent variables—namely, urban development per capita at the grid cell-year level. Finally, we conduct a large-N statistical analysis of the association between our urban development per capita measure and the likelihood of mass killing campaigns by 0.5-degree grid cell in nondemocratic regimes.
Bioconversion of Pentosans to Heteropolysaccharides

A program concerning the conversion of hemicellulosic residues to extracellular polysaccharides (EPS) with favorable application properties has been initiated. A number of microorganisms including Cryptococcus laurentii, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Arthrobacter viscosus, a Pseudomonas sp., and an as-yet-unidentified phylloplane isolate (DS-1) appear to be suitable for such purpose. We have demonstrated that these isolates can convert either xylose, an enzymatic oligomeric digest (Trichoderma longibrachiatum) of xylan, a mineral acid hemicellulose hydrolysate, or a five monosaccharide mixture simulating sulfite process liquors, to EPS. Several physiological parameters relating to maximizing acidic (hexadecyltrimethylammonium-precipitable) EPS are detailed. Under optimum conditions, up to ca. 14 gm/1 of EPS has been obtained. Following additional purification steps, the molecular weight distributions (600–4500 Kd) of the EPS so formed were estimated by size exclusion chromatography. The compositions of these several pentosan-derived EPS were determined on their hydrolysates; and some preliminary data on their intrinsic viscosities was assembled. The relationships among EPS composition, substrate utilized, microbial growth phase, and molecular properties are exemplified.
Reactions to Work-Family Events: An Exploration through Varying Temporal Lenses

The present symposium examines individual reactions to work-family events. The four presentations are united in their focus on discrete events that impact the work- family interface, such as experi...
Sea-Floor Soil Mechanics and Trafficability Measurements with the Tracked Vehicle “RUM”

A brief description of the ORB-RUM Sea Floor Work System, program history, philosophy and direction is given. An instrumentation suite developed for the use of RUM in a soil mechanics and trafficability study program is also described. Highlights of over 400 operating hours on the sea floor at depths ranging from 40 to 1880 meters illustrates the problems encountered and the experience that has been obtained in this program. A limited amount of data is presented.
Asymptomatic ventricular tachycardia: diagnostic pitfalls of Andersen-Tawil syndrome-a case report.

Background Andersen-Tawil syndrome (ATS) is a rare arrhythmia disorder caused by a mutation in the KCNJ2 gene. Typical presentation includes a triad of cardiac arrhythmia, dysmorphia, and periodic paralysis. However, KCNJ2 mutations can mimic other disorders such as catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT) making treatment challenging. Case summary A 9-year-old asymptomatic female patient presented with an irregular heart rate noted at a well-child visit. Physical examination revealed short stature and facial dysmorphism. An initial rhythm strip showed intermittent runs of non-sustained bidirectional ventricular tachycardia with a prolonged QT interval of 485 ms at rest. Exercise testing showed no significant increase in ectopy from baseline at higher heart rates. Cardiac imaging was normal, and the burden of ventricular ectopy was significantly reduced on a beta-blocker and Class IC antiarrhythmic combination. Genetic testing marked a D71N mutation in the KCNJ2 gene. Discussion Clinical distinction between ATS and CPVT is a challenge. Genetic testing in the above patient attributed a likely pathogenic variant for both ATS and CPVT to a single D71N mutation in the KCNJ2 gene. Further evaluation revealed no clinical CPVT, emphasizing the need for cautious interpretation of genetic results in inherited arrhythmia disorders.
PI3 kinase-AKT-mTOR pathway is essential for neuroendocrine differentiation of prostate cancer

124 Hormonal therapy (androgen ablation and/or anti-androgen) is initially effective in treating patients with advanced prostate cancer, but the tumor eventually recurs with the tumor cells growing in the androgen-deprived environment (hormone- refractory or androgen-independent (AI) stage). The mechanism of AI proliferation of prostate cancer is unknown. Hormonal therapy induces neuroendocrine (NE) differentiation (NED) of cancer cells, which may contribute to AI growth of prostate cancer. The mechanism of NED is unclear. We studied signal transduction pathways in NED of the LNCaP prostate cancer cells after androgen withdrawal, and showed that both the PI3 kinase-AKT-mTOR pathway and ERK are activated but only the former is required for NED. A constitutively active AKT promotes NED while a dominant negative AKT inhibits NED. Activation of AKT by IGF-1 also leads to NED; and NED induced by epinephrine requires AKT activation. Therefore, we have demonstrated a novel function of the PI3 kinase-AKT-mTOR pathway in prostate cancer progression. Our study has also identified potential molecular targets which may be explored for designing novel therapeutic strategies for the prevention and treatment of AI prostate cancer.
Influence of Stainless-Steel Catalyst Substrate Type and Pretreatment on Growing Carbon Nanotubes from Waste Postconsumer Plastics

This study is concerned with the “up-cycling” postconsumer wastes into the value-added products of multiwall carbon nanotubes (CNTs). It investigated combinations of methods for pretreating different types of stainless-steel catalysts that increase the yield of CNTs form common waste plastics. The polymers were pyrolyzed at 800 °C, in nitrogen, and their gaseous pyrolyzates were passed over fixed catalyst substrates preheated to 800 °C. The substrates consisted of SS-304, SS-316 and SS-316L fine stainless-steel wire-cloths. Therein synthesis of CNTs took place by chemical vapor deposition (CVD). The wire-cloths were used either as-received or chemically etched by acid wash and/or heat-treated in air, nitrogen or helium at 800 °C, and then rapidly air-quenched. Results showed that the catalyst type, composition and pretreatment method, as well as the type of feedstock, are all influential on the yields and physical characteristics of the synthesized CNTs.
An Evaluation of the Nutrition and Health Awareness (NHA) Program on Health Knowledge, Health Literacy and Activity Levels

Research ObjectivesThe Nutrition and Health Awareness (NHA) program aims to educate and cultivate positive attitudes towards health and wellness in a school-based setting. Education on physical activity, diet, and oral hygiene were emphasized. The study’s purpose was to evaluate the effectiveness of the curriculum on increasing physical activity and health knowledge.Study Design/Methods A team of medical students developed and administered lessons to 93 eligible 4th-grade students at Superstition Springs Elementary School on topics such as physical exercise, nutrition groups and labels, sugar metabolism, heart disease, and oral hygiene. At baseline (Week 0), participants were randomly assigned anonymized ID numbers and Fitbit Flex 2TM accelerometers, and completed a pre-intervention questionnaire evaluating their knowledge, health literacy and attitudes. Accelerometers were used to monitor activity levels throughout the duration of the six-week program. Five lessons were provided once weekly during Weeks 1–5. One week after lessons concluded, participants were again assessed using the questionnaire.Principal Findings and Quantitative/ Qualitative Results Ninety-three students participated in this research. Paired pre/post questionnaires (n=81) suggest students are more likely to exercise daily (p=0.021) and know more about their health (p=0.029). Students also scored higher on questions testing their cognitive ability to correctly identify healthy foods, portion sizes, importance of exercise, dental hygiene, and risk factors of diabetes and heart disease. Fitbit accelerometers recorded activity levels (n=84) as average steps students walked every week. Due to technical difficulties, no baseline (Week 0) average activity was established. Average activity levels over 5-week period did not differ due to inconsistent data collection.Conclusions/Impact on Health CentersApplication of the NHA program showed noteworthy improvements in health literacy, specifically in understanding of individual health, which suggests the curriculum’s potential to be used in an educational setting. Furthermore, by using a tool, such as the NHA questionnaire, to screen for health literacy in pediatric patients, healthcare providers can deliver personalized health education and care. Future research should focus on how to effectively measure activity levels, as well as how to involve the whole family in health and wellness improvement. Additionally, future research should be aimed at assessing long term retention of health knowledge.
Referring expressions in categorizing activities: Rethinking the nature of linguistic units for the study of interaction

Linguistic units as traditionally conceived by linguists favor structural features and referential meanings. In this paper, we propose a new way of understanding the nature of linguistic units by analyzing the interaction of multiple semiotic resources (gestures, bodily movement, eye gaze and speech) in social interaction. We focus on the discursive activity of “categorizing” in different situations and in two languages, English and Mandarin Chinese. Categorizing is broadly defined as any activity that involves explicitly or implicitly classifying people or objects into types. We show that the meanings of linguistic units (including the referential) may be distorted or incomplete when forms are extracted from their contexts and analyzed in isolation. Instead, we argue that an interactional, activity-based view, focusing on the deployment of linguistic elements as part of a coordinated system of semiotic resources, will enable us to understand the nature of linguistic units in a more productive way.
Surface Detection of THC Attributable to Vaporizer Use in the Indoor Environment.

The number of cannabis users increased up to 188 million users worldwide in 2017. Smoking and vaping are the most common consumption routes with formation of side-stream smoke/vapor and secondhand exposure to cannabinoids has been described in the literature. External contamination of hair by cannabis smoke has been studied but there are no studies on third-hand cannabis exposure due to deposition of smoke or vapor on surfaces. We tested whether cannabinoids could be detected on surfaces and objects in a room where cannabis is vaporized. Surface samples were collected using isopropanol imbued non-woven wipes from hard surfaces and objects. Each surface was swabbed three times with standardized swabbing protocol including three different patterns. Samples were analyzed using LC-ESI-MS/MS in combination with online extraction. THC was detected on 6 samples out of the 15 collected in the study room at quantifiable levels ranging 348–4882 ng/m2. Negative control samples collected from areas outside the study room were all negative. We demonstrated that surfaces exposed to side-stream cannabis vapor are positive for THC at quantifiable levels. This study represents a first step in understanding how side-stream cannabis vapor deposits in the environment and potentially results in a tertiary exposure for users and non-users.
Pharmacokinetics of multiple doses of chloramphenicol in fed adult horses.

Abstract To the authors’ knowledge, there have been no studies evaluating the pharmacokinetics of chloramphenicol administered orally to horses at the currently recommended dose of 50 mg/kg PO q6 h for multiple days. The published antimicrobial susceptibility breakpoint is 8.0 ug/mL; it is unknown if this concentration is achievable at the recommended dose rate in horses. The aim of this prospective multi-dose pharmacokinetic study was to perform pharmacokinetic analysis of chloramphenicol after multiple doses. The authors hypothesize that the antimicrobial susceptibility breakpoint will not be reached. Seven healthy adult horses were administered 50 mg/kg chloramphenicol base tablets PO q6 h for 4 days. Blood was collected via venipuncture daily at 4 and 6 h after administration for the first 15 doses. After the 16th dose, an IV catheter was aseptically placed in the right jugular vein and blood was collected at regular intervals for pharmacokinetic analysis. Maximum chloramphenicol concentration was variable between horses (2.1–42.7 μg/mL). The highest average chloramphenicol concentration was just below the susceptibility breakpoint at 7.7 ug/mL while the lowest was well below the breakpoint at 1.5 ug/mL. On average, the time above 8.0 μg/mL was 75 min, considerably less than the recommended 50% of the dosing interval. When chloramphenicol is administered at a dose of 50 mg/kg PO q6 h in horses, the highest reliably achievable steady state concentration for at least half of the dosing interval is 2.0 μg/mL. The established susceptibility breakpoint of 8.0 ug/mL is not achievable in adult horses, and should be re-evaluated.
Mechanics of near-field deformation during co- and post-seismic shallow fault slip.

Poor knowledge of how faults slip and distribute deformation in the shallow crust hinders efforts to mitigate hazards where faults increasingly intersect with the expanding global population at Earth’s surface. Here we analyze two study sites along the 2014 M 6.0 South Napa, California, earthquake rupture, each dominated by either co- or post-seismic shallow fault slip. We combine mobile laser scanning (MLS), active-source seismic tomography, and finite element modeling to investigate how deformation rate and mechanical properties of the shallow crust affect fault behavior. Despite four orders-of-magnitude difference in the rupture velocities, MLS-derived shear strain fields are remarkably similar at the two sites and suggest deceleration of the co-seismic rupture near Earth’s surface. Constrained by the MLS and seismic data, finite element models indicate shallow faulting is more sensitive to lithologic layering and plastic yielding than to the presence of fault compliant zones (i.e., regions surrounding faults with reduced stiffness). Although both elastic and elastoplastic models can reproduce the observed surface displacement fields within the uncertainty of MLS data, elastoplastic models likely provide the most reliable representations of subsurface fault behavior, as they produce geologically reasonable stress states and are consistent with field, geodetic, and seismological observations.
Maximizing the value of laboratory tests

Abstract Sources of error in laboratory tests include preanalytical, analytical, and postanalytical factors that potentially influence the integrity or interpretation of a test result. Immunoassays that are used to measure many of the endocrine biomarkers such as hormones, binding proteins, and metabolic products, are particularly susceptible to analytical interferences due to the limited specificity of antibody–antigen interactions. Endogenous substances such as lipids and bilirubin may interfere with laboratory tests when present at unusually high concentrations. Hemoglobin is a common interferent that leaks into the noncellular fraction of blood when red blood cells are disrupted during collection or storage of a blood specimen. Dietary supplements such as biotin can sometimes interfere with laboratory tests when present at high enough concentrations. Finally, the proper interpretation of a laboratory test result requires some knowledge of the sensitivity and specificity of the test, the predictive value of positive results, and the inherent biological variability of the biomarker the test measures. This chapter discusses the most common sources of error in laboratory tests used in diagnostic endocrinology. Avoidance of these sources of error maximizes the value of laboratory tests.
Preparedness, Confidence, and Best Practices in Preventing, Recognizing, Managing Mental Health Cases in NCAA Institutions.

Context Currently, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) recommends written policies and procedures that outline steps to support student athletes facing a mental health challenge and the referral processes for emergency and non-emergency mental health situations. Objective To assess the mental health policies and procedures implemented and athletic trainers' perceived confidence in preventing, recognizing and managing routine and crisis mental health cases across all three divisions of NCAA athletics. Design Cross-sectional survey design and chart review. Setting Online survey Participants: Athletic trainers with clinical responsibility at NCAA member institutions (n=1091, 21.5% response rate). Main outcome measure(s) Confidence in screening, preventative patient education, recognizing and referring routine and emergency mental health conditions (5-point Likert scale: 1= not at all confident, 2= hardly confident, 3= somewhat confident, 4= fairly confident, 5=very confident) using a content-validated survey (Cronbach's α=0.904) and mental health policy and procedure chart review. Results Respondents indicated they felt "fairly confident" with screening (40.21%, n=76/189) for risk of any mental health condition and "fairly confident" in implementing preventative patient education (42.11%, n=80/190). Respondents were "fairly confident" they could recognize (48.95%, n=93/190) and refer (45.79%, n=87/190) routine mental health conditions. Respondents were "fairly confident" they could recognize (46.84%, n=89/190), but "very confident" (46.32%, n=88/190) they could refer mental health emergencies. Policies lacked separate procedures for specific emergency mental health situations such as suicidal/homicidal ideation (36.1%), sexual assault (33.3%), substance abuse (19.4%), and confusional state (13.9%). Policies lacked prevention measures such as student athlete involvement (16.7%) in annual mental health education (16.7%). Conclusions While athletic trainers were generally confident in their ability to address emergency and routine mental health conditions, opportunities exist to improve policies for prevention, screening, and referral. Best practice guidelines should be used as a guide to develop policies that foster an environment of mental health wellness.
From “Patchy Endorsements” to Intentional Advocacy: Deconstructing Bias in the Language of Open Access

This paper argues that linguistic features common in discourse around Open Access Publishing are socially constructed in ways that lend themselves to implicit bias against the Open Access (OA) movement. These biases materialize through common linguistic practices such as de-centering OA and highlighting the uncertainty of OA Publishing, resulting in “patchy endorsements” of the status quo of Subscription Publishing. Following previous research that demonstrates how educational content on OA can lead to cognitive load and biases that reinforce the status quo in scholarly publishing, we analyze publicly available, online content from our own institutions with an eye towards how these biases manifest specifically in the practice of librarianship. Using examples from this analysis, we suggest strategies and intentional language that can be used by librarians and other OA advocates to counteract bias and shift towards a construction of OA Publishing as the status quo. While many strategies and difficult negotiations are needed to functionally establish OA as the default in scholarly publishing, language choice is a device through which advocates at any level can advance towards an open-centered culture.
Primary Amenorrhea and Hyperandrogenism: Presenting Features of a Growth Hormone Producing Pituitary Adenoma in a Female Adolescent

Background: The combination of obesity, metabolic syndrome, hyperandrogenism and amenorrhea can be a common presentation of conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome. Growth hormone (GH) secreting pituitary adenomas are rare in children, but can present with a similar picture. Clinical Case: A 15-year 4-month old female was evaluated for primary amenorrhea and metabolic syndrome. Her weight was +2.96 SD, height +3.0 SD (mid-parental height 44th percentile, -0.1 SD) and BMI +2.53 SD, all >99th percentile. Weight and BMI were >99th percentile (weight +3.0 SD, BMI +2.4 SD) since 11 years of age and height was >99th percentile (+ 2.7 SD) since 8 years of age. Physical exam was remarkable for acanthosis, deepened voice, no hirsutism, Tanner III breasts and Tanner IV pubic hair. Laboratory evaluation was notable for prolactin (PRL) 147.8 ng/dL (2.6-18.0), LH <0.02 mIU/mL, FSH <0.09 mIU/mL, estradiol 23 pg/mL, total testosterone 81 ng/dL (<41), androstenedione 673 ng/mL (43-180), DHEA-S 627 mcg/dL (42-162), dyslipidemia and normal 17 hydroxy-progesterone and thyroid function tests. Bone age was 16 years. Brain MRI showed a 15x7mm pituitary macroadenoma without suprasellar invasion. Pituitary evaluation revealed IGF-1 619 ng/mL (192-568), IGF-BP3 5.15 mg/L (2.64-6.43) and adrenal insufficiency. Treatment with cabergoline 0.5 mg/week and maintenance hydrocortisone were initiated. An OGTT demonstrated baseline GH 4.9 ng/mL (0-6) and nadir 3.62 ng/mL (normal <1) consistent with GH excess. Surgery for the pituitary adenoma was recommended but unfortunately postponed. Four months later, her BP was elevated, she had clinical signs of diabetes insipidus (DI), PRL was 43.2 ng/dL and she failed a repeat GH suppression test. Follow-up MRI showed pituitary mass enlargement (17x9mm). Patient underwent total trans-sphenoidal tumor resection. Pathology confirmed a sparsely granulated (SG) GH adenoma immunoreactive for GH, PRL and estrogen receptor. Post-operative OGTT showed adequate GH suppression, normal prolactin levels, persistent testosterone elevation and DI. Conclusions: Hyperprolactinemia, hyperandrogenism and metabolic syndrome could be the presenting features of pituitary GH adenomas even in the absence of acromegalic features. Specifically, SG pituitary adenomas are frequently seen in young adults, are larger, more invasive and less likely to respond to medical treatment. Timely diagnosis and surgical treatment of GH adenomas is essential to prevent the high morbidity and mortality.
Comparing video game engagement measures as related to individual and relational well-being in a community sample of adult gamers

Abstract The relationships between video games and well-being have been the subject of empirical investigation for decades. However, this research has largely focused on younger samples, adverse outcomes, and limited measures of game engagement. The current study compared multiple game engagement measures (i.e., time spent playing, social context of play, content rating of favorite video game, and motivations for play) and their associations with psychosocial well-being (i.e., depressive symptoms, stress, loneliness, relationship satisfaction, and social support) in a community sample of 223 adult gamers. When examined separately, time spent playing, playing games for diversion, and more solo play were related to poorer individual well-being. When examining game engagement measures simultaneously, only diversion and fantasy motivations were related to poorer well-being, while more social play was related to lower loneliness. This suggests that gaming motivations and social context are more salient predictors of adult well-being than the often-examined measures of time spent playing or video game content. The results align with the Basic Psychological Needs theoretical approach to gaming, which states that adults play games to feel competent, autonomous, and socially related, and indicate that research and interventions may better serve adult gamers by focusing on motivations for play and social context.
Is there a retention gap for women and minorities? the case for moving in versus moving up

This chapter will examine the "retention gap" between the goals of gender and racial diversity and the workplace/management behaviors that affect retention of individuals in those groups. Women, as well as African Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Native Americans, are represented in the information technology (IT) workforce in percentages that are far lower than their percentages in the population as a whole. These populations are also under-represented in the educational programs that prepare people for careers as IT workers. While recruiting efforts are crucial for increasing the participation of women and minorities, it is equally important that we retain those already in the IT workforce. It is clear that nothing is gained by bringing women and minorities into the workforce to simply have them drop out or be weeded out. There is a need to deepen our understanding of retention issues for women and minorities in order to inform intervention strategies. This chapter addresses this need by providing an in-depth examination of factors affecting attraction, development, and especially retention of minorities and women in IS.
The Persistence of Superseded Subject Headings in Online Catalogs

Abstract This study examined the degree to which the bibliographic records in academic libraries' online catalogs continue to use LCSHs that LC has replaced with new headings and to determine if there is a difference in the continued use of old headings by different types of academic libraries. Results indicate that old headings are regularly found in library catalogs even after the examined libraries had started to use the new replacement headings and even after authority work is in place for the new heading.
Lectures on the Coupling Method

Preliminaries Discrete Theory Continuous Theory Inequalities Intensity-Governed Processes Diffusions Appendix Frequently Used Notation References Index.
L-asparaginase production by various bacteria.

Of 123 species of bacteria surveyed for L-asparaginase synthesis, Erwinia aroideae NRRL B-138 provided the highest yields.
Are we guilty of malpractice

(1976). Are we guilty of malpractice? Journal of Physical Education and Recreation: Vol. 47, No. 7, pp. 28-29.
Book Review: So Sexy so Soon: The New Sexualized Childhood and What Parents Can Do to Protect Their Kids by Diane E. Levin, Ph.D. & Jean Kilbourne, Ed.D. (Ballantine Books, 2008)

Drs. Diane E. Levin and Jean Kilbourne have recently written a book with cross-disciplinary appeal and particular relevance to those of us in the legal community. In the first four chapters of their aptly titled book, Levin and Kilbourne educate the reader about the modern reality of children who are constantly bombarded by electronic media and aggressive marketing with implicit and/or explicit sexual themes. The authors describe the frightening (and often heartbreaking) impact of such media and marketing on young children. In the final five chapters of the book, Levin and Kilbourne shift gears to counsel parents on personalized strategies to guide their children through the sexualized messages they are being fed. In the book, Levin and Kilbourne reference parenthetically the legal landscape that led to the current problem of sexualized children, and they summarize potential legal strategies to help rectify it. However, as non-lawyer experts on childhood development, the authors largely sidestep the legal issues they raise. Nonetheless, Levin and Kilbourne make clear that the modern sexualized childhood is rooted in legal changes implemented in recent decades, and the current problem is too ubiquitous for parents to tackle in isolation. In reading So Sexy So Soon, it quickly becomes apparent that changes in law must be part of a broader, more effective solution. Lawyers must take leadership in that area, but they must first understand the problem. Levin and Kilbourne’s book is an excellent resource to provide such background. Nevertheless, the book has some flaws. Levin and Kilbourne permit certain cultural biases in their book, and they exaggerate some dangers in a somewhat quixotic fashion. This book review examines these biases and exaggerations in some depth because they provide cautionary tales for lawyers interested in working to effect legal solutions. Such lawyers would need to muster significant amounts of political will to secure legislative or even administrative changes to existing law. Because of the scale of the entrenched problem of sexualized children, it would be extremely imprudent to alienate any potential political allies.
Solar Flares, Type III Radio Bursts, CMEs, and Energetic Particles

Despite the fact that it has been well known since the earliest observations that solar energetic particle events are well associated with solar flares it is often considered that the association is not physically significant. Instead, in large events, the particles are considered to be only accelerated at a shock driven by the coronal mass ejection (CME) that is also always present. If particles are accelerated in the associated flare, it is claimed that such particles do not find access to open field lines and therefore do not escape from the low corona. However recent work has established that long lasting type III radio bursts extending to low frequencies are associated with all prompt solar particle events. Such bursts establish the presence of open field lines. Furthermore, tracing the radio bursts to the lowest frequencies, generated near the observer, shows that the radio producing electrons gain access to a region of large angular extent. It is likely that the electrons undergo cross field transport and it seems reasonable that ions do also. Such observations indicate that particle propagation in the inner heliosphere is not yet fully understood. They also imply that the contribution of flare particles in major particle events needs to be properly addressed.
Crime, War & Romanticism: Arthur Andersen and the Nature of Entity Guilt

In 2002, Arthur Andersen, LLP stood trial for obstruction of justice. The prosecution offered several theories as to who at the firm had committed the crime but no one theory satisfied all twelve jurors. In an attempt to break its deadlock, the jury asked whether it could convict if some jurors thought Person A at Andersen had done it and some thought it was Person B. Following argument, the judge ruled that it could convict. This article argues that the court's response to the jury's query was wrong as a matter of law and policy. The ruling misconstrues the nature of corporate criminal intent and effectively treats a domestic corporate entity as if it were a rogue nation facing trial for war crimes. Part I offers a brief history of Andersen's rise and fall. Part II examines Andersen's association with Enron and the events that led to Andersen's indictment and trial. Part III analyzes the court's ruling on the jury's question and situates it within the nature of entity guilt. Part IV contextualizes the dispute over collective responsibility within a larger cultural context, including the "War on Crime." The Conclusion and Postscript offer some thoughts on the dangers - both present and future - of our national obsession with war.
Analysis of RNA Binding Proteins Using in Vitro Genetics

Publisher Summary This chapter describes an in vitro genetic system that allows the selection of Ribonucleic acid (RNA) binding proteins that bind tightly to a given RNA target sequence. The system utilizes phage display to physically link RNA binding proteins to their genes. The RNA binding proteins are displayed as fusions outside the filamentous bacteriophage particles and can be trapped on RNA attached to beads. Thus, protein variants with certain RNA-binding characteristics can be selected from a library of mutants through iterative rounds of binding and amplification. Even very rare clones can be retrieved in this way because the selective step occurs in vitro, signifying the complete control over binding conditions. Accessory proteins involved in binding can be added to the binding reaction, so that complex RNA–protein interactions involving numerous components can be studied. The chapter discusses relevant facts about phage morphogenesis, elaborating upon concepts related to efficient display of RNA binding proteins. Binding of displayed RNA binding proteins to RNA is also discussed. The chapter presents application of in vitro genetics to the study of RNA binding proteins. Prospects and future applications are also elaborated.
Resource utilization in esophagectomy: When higher costs are associated with worse outcomes

Introduction Care of the esophagectomy patient requires significant resources. We sought to determine which patient and provider variables contribute to resource utilization and their association with clinical outcomes. Methods 6,737 patients undergoing esophagectomy were identified from the University Healthsystem Consortium (UHC). Linear and logistic regression models were used to determine whether characteristics, including age, severity of illness (SOI) and procedural volume were associated with mortality, length of stay (LOS), discharge disposition, readmission rates, and cost. Results Older patients were twice as likely to suffer post-operative death (OR 2.12; 95%CI 1.7–2.7), three times more likely to be discharged to extended care facilities (31.9% vs. 10.6%, P < 0.001), and cost 8.4% more ($27,628 vs. $25,481, P < 0.001). Similarly, patients with higher SOI were more likely to suffer post- operative death (OR 14.6; 4.7–45.9), be readmitted (OR 1.3; 1.1–1.6), and have longer hospital stays (RR 1.3; 1.8–2.1). Patients with the highest index hospital costs were five times more likely to be discharged to an extended care facility (P < 0.001). Conclusion Older patients and those with a higher SOI have higher perioperative mortality, readmission rates, hospital costs, and require more post- operative care. With increasingly scrutinized health care costs, these data provide guidance for more careful patient selection. J. Surg. Oncol. 2015 111:51–55. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Determining the Critical Success Factors of the Wine Tourism Region of Napa from a Supply Perspective

Napa is a renowned region for wine tourism and demonstrates how wine can be an instrument to develop tourism. The purpose of this research is to identify the critical success factors that have shaped the area's rise and growth, and its unique competitiveness in both the domestic and global marketplaces for wine tourism destinations. The findings from the research provide the foundation for a proposed conceptual model of success factors in wine tourism research and as insight to practitioners/suppliers. Findings reveal an aligned marketing effort and strategic partnerships among suppliers of Napa wine tourism. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Dramaturgy of Ontological Verticality in the Wooster Group’s Theatre: Fragments of Memory in Search of a Whole

My paper examines The Wooster Group’s India and After (America) (1979), A Personal History of the American Theatre (1980 ) , L.S.D. ( … Just the High Points … ) (1984 ) , and Brace Up! (1991) with a focus on the intersection between reading these works for theoretical analysis and experiencing them as live events as a spectator. These works exemplify The Wooster Group’s aesthetic through its unconventional approach to history and classic texts, its commitment to questioning the nature of theatrical form, and the portrayal of its self-reflection. India and A Personal History utilize Spalding Gray’s memory for use in spontaneity on stage, breaking the barrier between past and present and, through direct audience participation, that between performer and audience. In L.S.D ., LeCompte challenges the presence and value of classical texts, and the theatrical representation of race, gender, and class in contemporary performance. Brace Up! ‘s theme of loss alienates form from content, character from actor, and process from result, deepening the audience’s perception of the possibilities of theatrical representation. Scholarship on these works has revealed the theoretical implication underscoring LeCompte’s creation process, which continues to The Wooster Group’s recent works such as La Didone (2009) and Vieux Carre (2011). What is unique about the scholarship is that, even for a reader who has not encountered these works on stage, the scholarship has served as an additional layer of potential openness rather than as a meaning-assignment. For the multiple ontological layers that arise out of the Wooster Group’s performance and the criticism around it, I term the Group’s dramaturgy “vertical dramaturgy,” and argue that Spalding Gray’s India and After (America) and A Personal History of the American Theatre , and the Wooster Group’s L.S.D. (…Just the High Points …), and Brace Up! create a performance text that reaches over to the critical and, further, to the imaginative level.
Analysis of the New Millennium Program (NMP) flight validation process using PTAM

This effort expands on the traditional process analysis that focuses on procedural process as the model for describing complex processes. A new model was developed from observing the New Millennium Program (NMP) process for flight validating new technologies. The new process type analysis methodology (PTAM) includes four process types, anomaly identification and reflective verification. A number of examples are presented to illustrate the use of the new approach.
An Examination of the Effect of Composite Constituent Properties on the Notched-Strength Performance of Composite Materials

The effect of matrix and fiber properties on the strengths and failure processes of notched, continuous-fiber composite specimens has been investigated. Bearing, open and filled hole tension and compression tests were conducted on AS-4/3501-6, IM-8/3501-6, AS-4/APC-2 and IM-8/APC-2 specimens. Failure characteristics of tested specimens were studied by fractographic techniques. Failure progression was tracked by means of incremental loading, radiography and fractographic inspection.
Evaluation of a new round glass coverslip for cytological examination of cultured amniotic fluid cells.

Glass coverslip and plastic surfaces were quantitatively evaluated for growth-supporting capacity by determining the number and size of colonies formed in primary cultures of amniotic fluid (AF) cells. Round coverslips, designed to fit exactly a 35 mm plastic culture dish, were cleaned by 9 different methods and compared with plastic culture dish bottoms. Analysis by studentized range graph paper of Preliminary and Supplementary Experiments detected no significant difference among cultures on the differently cleaned glass coverslip or plastic surfaces. These round coverslips are particularly useful for efficient recovery of AF cells (or other cultured cells) for cytological examination, chromosome analysis of cells in situ, or microanalytic techniques performed during early AF cell culture when attached and dividing cells are few.
The Effects Of Pelletized Protein Diets On Growth, Molting And Survival Of Juvenile Lobsters1

Juvenile lobsters were fed pelleted natural or synthetic diets with varying protein content while being held in a closed system containing either Instant Ocean or natural sea water. An optimum dietary protein level could not be established. However 11% protein was shown to be inadequate. Instant Ocean was found to be as good as natural sea water for holding lobsters during dietary studies. Feed efficiency ratios were calculated and shown to be comparable to those determined for rat and chick. Parentage was shown to be a significant factor in terms of rates of growth of animals on various diets. Molting was shown to be cyclic and synchronized in early growth stages.
Obstetrician–Gynecologists and contraception: long-acting reversible contraception practices and education

Abstract Objectives Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) — the copper and levonorgestrel intrauterine devices (IUDs) and the single-rod implant — are safe and effective but account for a small proportion of contraceptive use by US women. This study examined obstetrician–gynecologists' knowledge, training, practice and beliefs regarding LARC methods. Design A survey questionnaire was mailed to 3000 Fellows of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. After exclusions, 1221 eligible questionnaires were analyzed (45.8% response rate, accounting for exclusions). Results Almost all obstetrician–gynecologists reported providing IUDs (95.8%). Most obstetrician–gynecologists reported requiring two or more visits for IUD insertion (86.9%). Respondents that reported IUD insertion in a single visit reported inserting a greater number of IUDs in the last year. About half reported offering the single-rod implant (51.3%). A total of 92.0% reported residency training on IUDs, and 50.8% reported residency training on implants. Residency training and physician age correlated with the number of IUDs inserted in the past year. A total of 59.6% indicated receiving continuing education on at least one LARC method in the past 2 years. Recent continuing education was most strongly associated with implant insertion, and 31.7% of respondents cited lack of insertion training as a barrier. Conclusions Barriers to LARC provision could be reduced if more obstetrician–gynecologists received implant training and provided same-day IUD insertion. Continuing education will likely increase implant provision. Implications This study shows that obstetrician–gynecologists generally offer IUDs, but fewer offer the single-rod contraceptive implant. Recent continuing education strongly predicted whether obstetrician–gynecologists inserted implants and was also associated with other practices that encourage LARC use.