cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On the Social Morality

Social morality refers to a basic moral norm the people of a certain society follow to maintain a normal life of that society.It is the moral criterion and the guide line that all citizens must follow hence to guarantee the citizen's normal life,study and work.Fully recognizing the basic signification and the course and forming of social morality is of positive meaning to the practice in sociology and the classifying of human being into groups.It is also of profound theoretical and practical meaning for us to trace back the internal reason for the down-ward tendency of nowadays social morality and re-constructing a good social morality.
Characterization and representation of mechanical waves generated in piezo-electric augmented beams

Mechanical waves are induced in solids due to the system's coupling with an external excitation. Depending upon the nature of the resulting displacement and phase difference between the vibrating particles at a particular frequency, the mechanical waves can be classified as standing waves, traveling waves or a combination of the two. This study focuses on the identification of these different forms of mechanical waves and discusses methods that can be suitably used for their classification. The Hilbert and Fourier methods of classification were validated using experimental results and then compared against each other. The experimental and theoretical analysis of mechanical waves was conducted on a beam with free-free boundary conditions excited by piezoelectric elements.
Combining machine learning and matching techniques to improve causal inference in program evaluation.

Rationale, aims and objectives Program evaluations often utilize various matching approaches to emulate the randomization process for group assignment in experimental studies. Typically, the matching strategy is implemented, and then covariate balance is assessed before estimating treatment effects. This paper introduces a novel analytic framework utilizing a machine learning algorithm called optimal discriminant analysis (ODA) for assessing covariate balance and estimating treatment effects, once the matching strategy has been implemented. This framework holds several key advantages over the conventional approach: application to any variable metric and number of groups; insensitivity to skewed data or outliers; and use of accuracy measures applicable to all prognostic analyses. Moreover, ODA accepts analytic weights, thereby extending the methodology to any study design where weights are used for covariate adjustment or more precise (differential) outcome measurement. Method One-to-one matching on the propensity score was used as the matching strategy. Covariate balance was assessed using standardized difference in means (conventional approach) and measures of classification accuracy (ODA). Treatment effects were estimated using ordinary least squares regression and ODA. Results Using empirical data, ODA produced results highly consistent with those obtained via the conventional methodology for assessing covariate balance and estimating treatment effects. Conclusions When ODA is combined with matching techniques within a treatment effects framework, the results are consistent with conventional approaches. However, given that it provides additional dimensions and robustness to the analysis versus what can currently be achieved using conventional approaches, ODA offers an appealing alternative.
Inertial effects on the flow of capsules in cylindrical channels

Abstract A front-tracking method was used to study moderate to large-sized capsules flowing in cylindrical channels at Reynolds numbers ranging from 0.1 to 225. Two different constitutive equations, the Neo-Hookean and Skalak laws were considered to describe the mechanics of the thin membrane. The effect of capsule size, elastic capillary number, and Reynolds number on the shape, migration velocity, and extra pressure loss were determined. The deformation of the capsules was strongly tied to the size of the capsule compared with the channel diameter with larger capsules deforming more due to the confining effect of the wall. As the Reynolds number was increased, capsules were more elongated in the direction of flow. The effect of Reynolds number was more apparent as the elastic capillary number was increased. Both the migration velocity and extra pressure loss were seen to depend primarily on the size of the capsule with deformation playing a secondary role. The Neo-Hookean membrane showed a larger deformation than the Skalak law due to its strain softening nature. The Neo-Hookean membrane also displayed a failure phenomenon of continuous deformation at large enough elastic capillary numbers not seen in the Skalak law membranes. This limiting elastic capillary number was shown to decrease as Reynolds number became larger. The membrane strain was largest at the front of the capsule indicating the most likely region where the capsule would fail.
Soils of the Pacific Coast Region: LRRs A and C

Land Resource Region (LRR) A is located in the Pacific Northwest of the United States and is dominated by four major mountain ranges (Cascades, Klamath, Coast Range and the Olympics) and two main coastal areas (Puget Sound and Pacific Coast). The Region includes two large valley systems (Willamette Valley and the Puget Lowland) and the adjoining eastern and western mountain foot slopes. The region covers over 234,000 km2. It includes a rich agricultural area due to a mild coastal climate, deep soils formed in alluvium and adequate precipitation for crops. The parent material of the Cascade Mountains is mainly volcanic tephra and residuum, the valleys are primarily mixed alluvial sediments, and the parent materials of the Coast Range, Klamath and Olympic Mountains are mixtures of alluvium, residuum and colluvium derived from sedimentary rocks that are uplifted sea floors and volcanic rocks. Elevations range from sea level to over 4,400 meters in the Cascade Mountains.
Drug discovery using clinical outcome-based Connectivity Mapping: application to ovarian cancer.

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the fifth leading cause of cancer death among women in the United States (5 % of cancer deaths). The standard treatment for patients with advanced EOC is initial debulking surgery followed by carboplatin-paclitaxel combination chemotherapy. Unfortunately, with chemotherapy most patients relapse and die resulting in a five-year overall survival around 45 %. Thus, finding novel therapeutics for treating EOC is essential. Connectivity Mapping (CMAP) has been used widely in cancer drug discovery and generally has relied on cancer cell line gene expression and drug phenotype data. Therefore, we took a CMAP approach based on tumor information and clinical endpoints from high grade serous EOC patients. We determined tumor gene expression signatures (e.g., sets of genes) associated with time to recurrence (with and without adjustment for additional clinical covariates) among patients within TCGA (n = 407) and, separately, from the Mayo Clinic (n = 326). Each gene signature was inputted into CMAP software (Broad Institute) to determine a set of drugs for which our signature “matches” the “reference” signature, and drugs that overlapped between the CMAP analyses and the two studies were carried forward for validation studies involving drug screens on a set of 10 EOC cell lines. Of the 11 drugs carried forward, five (mitoxantrone, podophyllotoxin, wortmannin, doxorubicin, and 17-AAG) were known a priori to be cytotoxics and were indeed shown to effect EOC cell viability. Future research is needed to investigate the use of these CMAP and similar analyses for determining combination therapies that might work synergistically to kill cancer cells and to apply this in silico bioinformatics approach using clinical outcomes to other cancer drug screening studies.
Non-rigid respiratory motion correction for 4D gated PET sinogram data

Respiratory motion is one image degradation factor that affects the resolution and may cause artifacts in PET imaging. Respiratory gating technique is able to reduce the blurring effects but results in higher noise level. Conventional motion correction methods that model motion effects during or after image reconstruction not only increases reconstruction time, but also requires a gated or blurred attenuation map to reduce motion artifacts. This paper addresses the respiratory motion correction on sinogram data before reconstruction using a non-rigid motion model. It has the potential to reduce reconstruction time, and does not require gated attenuation maps.
Cardiovascular disease biomarkers on cognitive function in older adults: Joint effects of cardiovascular disease biomarkers and cognitive function on mortality risk

Previous research demonstrates an inverse association between age and cardiovascular disease (CVD) biomarkers with cognitive function; however, little is known about the combined associations of CVD risk factors and cognitive function with all-cause mortality in an older adult population, which was the purpose of this study. Data from the 1999-2002 NHANES were used (N=2,097; 60+yrs), with mortality follow-up through 2011. Evaluated individual biomarkers included mean arterial pressure (MAP), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP), HDL-C, total cholesterol (TC), A1C, and measured body mass index (BMI). Cognitive function was assessed using the Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST). Further, 4 groups were created based on CVD risk and cognitive function. Group 1: high cognitive function and low CVD risk; Group 2: high cognitive function and high CVD risk; Group 3: low cognitive function and low CVD risk; Group 4: low cognitive function and high CVD risk. An inverse relationship was observed where those with more CVD risk factors had a lower (worse) cognitive function score. Compared to those in Group 1, only those in Group 3 and 4 had an increase mortality risk.
Designing small molecule CXCR3 antagonists

ABSTRACTIntroduction: By virtue of its specificity for chemokines induced in Th1-associated pathologies, CXCR3 has attracted considerable attention as a target for therapeutic intervention. Several pharmacologically distinct small molecules with in vitro and in vivo potency have been described in the literature, although to date, none have shown efficacy in clinical trials.Areas covered: In this article, the author outlines the rationale for targeting CXCR3 and discusses the potential pitfalls in targeting receptors in poorly understood areas of chemokine biology. Furthermore, they cover emerging therapeutic areas outside of the ‘traditional’ Th1 arena in which CXCR3 antagonists may ultimately bear fruit. Finally, they discuss the design of recently discovered small molecules targeting CXCR3.Expert opinion: CXCR3 and its ligands appear to play roles in a multitude of diverse diseases in humans. In vitro studies suggest that CXCR3 is inherently ‘druggable’ and that potent, efficacious small molecules targe...
Beyond Generalized Sexual Prejudice: Need for Closure Predicts Negative Attitudes Toward Bisexual People Relative to Gay/Lesbian People.

Abstract Increasing evidence suggests that bisexual people are sometimes evaluated more negatively than heterosexual and gay/lesbian people. A common theoretical account for this discrepancy argues that bisexuality is perceived by some as introducing ambiguity into a binary model of sexuality. The present brief report tests a single key prediction of this theory, that evaluations of bisexual people have a unique relationship with Need for Closure (NFC), a dispositional preference for simple ways of structuring information. Participants ( n = 3406) were heterosexual medical students from a stratified random sample of 49 U.S. medical schools. As in prior research, bisexual targets were evaluated slightly more negatively than gay/lesbian targets overall. More importantly for the present investigation, higher levels of NFC predicted negative evaluations of bisexual people after accounting for negative evaluations of gay/lesbian people, and higher levels of NFC also predicted an explicit evaluative preference for gay/lesbian people over bisexual people. These results suggest that differences in evaluations of sexual minority groups partially reflect different psychological processes, and that NFC may have a special relevance for bisexual targets even beyond its general association with prejudice. The practical value of testing this theory on new physicians is also discussed.
Galvanic Corrosion and Mechanical Behavior of Fiber Metal Laminates of Metallic Glass and Carbon Fiber Composites

The possibility of galvanic corrosion typically prohibits the pairing of carbon fiber and aluminum in a fiber metal laminate (FML). In this study, the authors describe a new type of FML comprised of alternating layers of bulk metallic glass (BMG) and carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite. The authors compare the galvanic coupling and mechanical behavior of an Al-based FML and a BMG-CFRP FML. Results show that when paired with CFRPs, BMG exhibits far less galvanic corrosion than aluminum paired with CFRP. In fact, the corrosion between BMG and CFRP is similar in magnitude to the corrosion between aluminum and glass fiber, the two constituent materials of GLARE, the most widely used FML. While interlaminar shear strength and flexural strength are similar for both FML types, the tensile strength and modulus of BMG-based FMLs are greater than those of Al-based FMLs.
Enhanced room-temperature spin Seebeck effect in a YIG/C 60 /Pt layered heterostructure

We report on large enhancement of the longitudinal spin Seebeck effect (LSSE) in the Y3Fe5O12 (YIG)/Pt system at room temperature due to the addition of a thin layer of organic semiconductor (C60) in between the YIG and the Pt. LSSE measurements show that the LSSE voltage increases significantly, from the initial value of 150 nV for the YIG/Pt structure to 240 nV for the YIG/C60(5nm)/Pt structure. Radio-frequency transverse susceptibility experiments reveal a significant decrease in the surface perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) of the YIG film when C60 is deposited on it. These results suggest that the LSSE enhancement may be attributed to increased spin mixing conductance, the decreased PMA, and the large spin diffusion length of C60.
The Alleviation of Poverty: How Far Have We Come?

This chapter discusses trends in U.S. poverty since 1964 and the factors behind those trends. Between 1965 and 1970 the official poverty rate fell significantly because market poverty declined and the antipoverty impact of transfers improved. After 1970 market poverty stopped declining but since the antipoverty impact of transfers improved for several more years, official poverty kept falling until the mid 1970s. The adjusted poverty measure, which takes account of non-cash benefits, taxes, and tax credits, declined until 1979. Since 1980 there has been little overall progress against poverty. Changes in market poverty, in the antipoverty impact of public programs, and in demographic structure contributed to the lack of progress. Market poverty failed to decline because powerful economic forces depressed low skill workers’ earnings. Workforce development programs, welfare reform and other public policies intended to increase earnings were inadequate to counteract these forces. High immigration and increases in single parent families resulted in Americans increasingly living in families that were relatively more likely to be poor. The antipoverty impact of public programs eroded during the late 1970s and early 1980s, and has yet to recover. Continuing obstacles to reducing market poverty and the clouded prospects for better income support and poverty-reducing demographic change suggest that poverty will remain a pressing issue in the second decade of the 21st century. The chapter’s final section sketches policy options for raising low-skill workers’ earnings, improving the antipoverty impact of transfers, and reducing the share of families at high risk of being poor.
Sub-wavelength Spacing Optical Phase Array Nanoantenna Emitter with Vertical Silicon Photonic Vias

We propose and demonstrate an ultra-compact single-side emission nanoantenna array with sub-wavelength spacing utilizing silicon photonic vertical vias with 45o reflectors. A 24-channel optical phase array with thermal tuners demonstrates a proof-of-concept emission pattern.
Multiclonal tumor origin: Evidence and implications.

Abstract An accurate understanding of the clonal origins of tumors is critical for designing effective strategies to treat or prevent cancer and for guiding the field of cancer risk assessment. The intent of this review is to summarize evidence of multiclonal tumor origin and, thereby, contest the commonly held assumption of monoclonal tumor origin. This review describes relevant studies of X chromosome inactivation, analyses of tumor heterogeneity using other markers, single cell sequencing, and lineage tracing studies in aggregation chimeras and engineered rodent models. Methods for investigating tumor clonality have an inherent bias against detecting multiclonality. Despite this, multiclonality has been observed within all tumor stages and within 53 different types of tumors. For myeloid tumors, monoclonal tumor origin may be the predominant path to cancer and a monoclonal tumor origin cannot be ruled out for a fraction of other cancer types. Nevertheless, a large body of evidence supports the conclusion that most cancers are multiclonal in origin. Cooperation between different cell types and between clones of cells carrying different genetic and/or epigenetic lesions is discussed, along with how polyclonal tumor origin can be integrated with current perspectives on the genesis of tumors. In order to develop biologically sound and useful approaches to cancer risk assessment and precision medicine, mathematical models of carcinogenesis are needed, which incorporate multiclonal tumor origin and the contributions of spontaneous mutations in conjunction with the selective advantages conferred by particular mutations and combinations of mutations. Adherence to the idea that a growth must develop from a single progenitor cell to be considered neoplastic has outlived its usefulness. Moving forward, explicit examination of tumor clonality, using advanced tools, like lineage tracing models, will provide a strong foundation for future advances in clinical oncology and better training for the next generation of oncologists and pathologists.
Locomotor Recovery Potential after Spinal Cord Injury

In this chapter we examine the recovery of posture and locomotion in mammals fol1owing a complete spinal cord lesion. The mechanisms by which the ability to stand and step can be regained fol1owing a complete injury is described with respect to central pattern generation, processing of sensory (proprioceptive and cutaneous) input by the spinal cord circuitry and the concept of automaticity. A series of intervention strategies designed to enhance motor function after a complete spinal cord lesion are examined, i.e., motor training and spinal cord learning, electrical stimulation of nerves, muscles, and the spinal cord below the level of the lesion, pharmacological facilitation of motor function, administration of growth/neurotrophic factors, and several types of cell and tissue implants to induce axonal growth. The general conclusion is that a significant level of motor function can be recovered after a complete spinal cord lesion. Although motor training has been shown to be one of the most effective strategies to date, a number of other interventions also are beginning to produce significant improvements in motor function. Some of these improvements can be attributed solely to functional reorganization of the spinal cord circuitry distal to the lesion, whereas other interventions appear to have been mediated by renewed connectivity between the neural elements above and below the lesion site. There seems to be a general consensus that a greater level of motor recovery is likely to be attained by a combination of therapies.
Some Old and New Results on Singularly Perturbed Boundary Value Problems

Publisher Summary This chapter presents some old and new results on singularly perturbed boundary value problems. Among these are the resonance phenomena and singular perturbation phenomena, which both center on the problem of selecting the correct limiting solution. There are many problems of interest, especially in chemical engineering, in which the stability inequality fails to hold and yet one expects solutions of (P 1 ) to behave qualitatively. If there is a single unstable reduced solution between the two solutions, u 1 and u 2 , then the T-condition in assumption is automatically satisfied. Also, the interior layer behavior described in this theorem is related to the boundary layer behavior in the sense that under certain assumptions, the nonoccurrence of boundary layer behavior implies the occurrence of interior layer behavior. One of the major open problems in nonlinear singular perturbation theory is the effective characterization of the asymptotic behavior of the solutions of quasilinear systems. The quasilinear problem (S 2 ) has been studied by several mathematicians under various assumptions on the matrix F.
Limited Health Literacy Is Associated With Worse Patient-Reported Outcomes in Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

Background Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) face complex health tasks and decisions. Limited health literacy is a risk factor for poor health outcomes, but this has not been examined in IBD. This study aims to assess the role of health literacy for patients with IBD. Methods We prospectively enrolled adults with IBD receiving care from the Section of Gastroenterology at the Boston Medical Center. In-person, standardized questionnaires were administered to measure health literacy with the Newest Vital Sign, self-efficacy with the Medication Use and Self-Efficacy Scale, quality of life with the 10-question Short Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire, depression with the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement System Short Form, and clinical disease activity for patients with Crohn's disease with the Harvey-Bradshaw Index and for patients with ulcerative colitis with the Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index (SCCAI). The relationships between health literacy and these variables were subsequently examined. Results Of 112 patients invited to participate, 99 enrolled and completed the interview. Limited health literacy was identified in 40% (n = 40) of patients. Patients with limited health literacy reported significantly worse overall health (P = 0.03) and more depressive symptoms (P = 0.01). Of the 56 patients with Crohn's disease, those with adequate health literacy were more likely to be in clinical remission (mean Harvey-Bradshaw Index score < 5), compared with those with limited health literacy (odds ratio, 4.15; 95% confidence interval, 1.37 to 13.45; P = 0.01). There was no significant association between health literacy and clinical disease activity (SCCAI) in patients with ulcerative colitis. Conclusions Limited health literacy is associated with lower ratings of subjective health and depression in IBD and more symptoms of active disease in patients with Crohn's disease.
Habitats of Life

There are four principal habitats in which life may exist—the surface of a planetary body, its subsurface, its atmosphere and space. From our own experience we know that life does exist on the surface of a planet, in its subsurface and transiently at least in the atmosphere. Where it is present, it exists in a surprising diversity and in a variety of microhabitats, from deep caverns (Hose et al. 2000; Melim et al. 2001) and water droplets (Meckenstock et al. 2014) to hydrothermal fluids and hot springs of various chemistries (Jannasch 1995; Rzonca and Schulze-Makuch 2002; Martin et al. 2008), to the frozen deserts of Antarctica (Friedmann 1982; Sun and Friedmann 1999; Goordial et al. 2016). In this chapter we will elaborate on the principle habitats, the constraints they impose on life, and the possibilities they provide.
TREATMENTS (NON-ANTIEPILEPTIC DRUGS) | Ginseng and Other Herbal Treatments for Epilepsy

Plants have been utilized and studied for activity in a wide range of human diseases, including epilepsy. More than 50 plants have shown some anticonvulsant activity, but to date, none of them has been developed into a standard medication for the treatment of seizures. In this article, investigations into the anticonvulsant activity of American ginseng are used to illustrate the process by which one might study the properties of a plant species. Experiments in animal models, along with activity-guided extraction, purification, and structural identification, can help determine the active components in herbal preparations, and to standardize products for subsequent treatment of epilepsy.
Neoadjuvant radiation for clinical T4 colon cancer: A potential improvement to overall survival.

Background Resection of T4 colon cancer remains challenging compared to lower T stages. Data on the effect of neoadjuvant radiation to improve resectability and survival are lacking. The purpose of this study is to describe the use and outcomes of neoadjuvant radiation therapy in clinical T4 colon cancer. Methods Adults with clinical evidence of T4 locally advanced colon cancer were included from the National Cancer Database (2004–2014). Bivariate and multivariable analyses were used to examine the association between neoadjuvant radiation therapy and R 0 resection rate, multivisceral resection, and overall survival. Results Fifteen thousand two hundred and seven patients with clinical T4 disease who underwent resection were identified over the study period. One hundred ninety-five (1.3%) underwent neoadjuvant radiation therapy. Factors associated with the use of neoadjuvant radiation therapy included younger age, male sex, private insurance, lower Charlson Comorbidity Index score, and treatment at an academic research program. Neoadjuvant radiation therapy was associated with superior R 0 resection rates (87.2% neoadjuvant radiation therapy vs 79.8% no neoadjuvant radiation therapy; P = .009). Five-year overall survival was increased in the neoadjuvant radiation therapy group (62.0% neoadjuvant radiation therapy vs 45.7% no neoadjuvant radiation therapy; P P = .01). In a subgroup analysis of T4b patients, there was an even greater size effect in adjusted overall survival (odds ratio 1.71; 95% confidence interval 1.07–2.72; P = .02). Conclusion Although radiation is rarely used in locally advanced colon cancer, this National Cancer Database analysis suggests that the use of neoadjuvant radiation for clinical T4 disease may be associated with superior R 0 resection rates and improved overall survival. Patients with clinical T4b disease may benefit the most from treatment. Neoadjuvant radiation therapy should be considered on a case-by-case basis in locally advanced colon cancer.
Self-polarized electrospun polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) nanofiber for sensing applications

Abstract This study aimed at synthesizing a self-polarized electrospun PVDF which eliminates a need for the post treatment process. In addition, the feasibility of using an electrospun PVDF sensor for both active and passive sensing applications has been studied. The pitch-catch approach was considered for an active sensing approach while an acoustic emission monitoring was used as a passive method. Moreover, the experimental program involved studying the several parameters such as the transmitted signal amplitude, frequency and the distance on the received signal by PVDF sensor. The PVDF sensor was found to be effective in detecting the pulsed and continuous generated Lamb wave. The results indicate that the PVDF device is efficient in detecting the transmitted signal from 1 to 100 kHz, but less efficient either at a low-frequency range ( 100 kHz). The results clearly indicate that the sensor can detect different magnitudes of surface acoustic waves propagating on the surface.
Disparities in the Prevalence and Correlates of Disability in Older Immigrants in the USA: a Systematic Review of the Literature

Disability in older adults leads to poor quality of life, is costly for the health system, and is a risk for mortality. Little is known about disability in older immigrants to the USA. To synthesize the evidence on the prevalence and factors associated with disability in older adult immigrants. We conducted searches in PubMed, Embase, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), and Scopus. Disability was defined as difficulty in performing basic or instrumental activities of daily living. Older adult was defined as 65 years and older. Immigrant status was defined as someone born outside of the USA. Eighteen articles met the inclusion criteria. Seven studied Hispanic/Latino immigrants, six studied Asian immigrants, four studied diverse older immigrant samples, and one studied European immigrants. Prevalence of disability ranged from 2 to 49% in Asians and 3 to 58.1% in Hispanic/Latinos. In a diverse sample of immigrants, the prevalence of disability was 19.3%. Correlates of disability included female gender, low income, limited education, single status, migration in late adulthood, obesity, arthritis, and diabetes. Factors protective against disability in older adult immigrants were acculturation, migrating at a younger age, exercise, alcohol intake, and church attendance. Disability prevalence was generally lower in Asian immigrants compared to Hispanic/Latino immigrants. Identification of the precise rates and factors associated with disability in older immigrants can inform health interventions for this population.
How to measure a large open-source distributed system: Research Articles

How can we measure the impact of an open-source software package over timeq When a system has no price, no purchase contracts and no buyers or sellers it can be difficult to judge its impact on the world. To explore this issue, we have instrumented the Condor distributed batch system in a variety of ways and observed its growth to over 50 000 CPUs at over 1000 sites over five years. Instrumentation methods include automatic updates by e-mail and user datagram protocol (UDP), annotated download records and a voluntary user survey. Each of these metrics has various strengths and weaknesses that we are able to compare and contrast. We also explore the ethical and legal issues surrounding automatic data collection. Surprisingly, we discover that objections to automatic data collection are higher among people that are not using the Condor software. We conclude with some practical advice for further research into the measurement of software systems. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
‘The More I Use the Technology, I Know What I’m Capable of Doing’: Access and the Discourse of Capacity

The concept of access has remained an important organizing logic within the education of students with disabilities. In this paper, we use spatial theory to explore the capability of technology to make spaces accessible for Maria, a high school user of assistive technology, who is labeled intellectually disabled. In investigating her technology as a means for greater access, we shift attention from the capability of technological tools to the significance of the discursive context in creating (in)accessible spaces. Using concepts of Firstspace, Secondspace and Thirdspace epistemologies (Soja 1996) we identify how differing conceptions of Maria’s capacity as a learner produced varied meanings of disability. Such conceptions precluded Maria’s ‘access knowledge’ (Hamraie 2017) while upholding assumptions of independence that were premised on unmediated bodily capacity. We suggest that accessibility may be understood as a socio-spatial phenomenon; we conclude by providing implications for practitioners when supporting technology use by students labeled intellectually disabled.
Automatically Identifying Security Checks for Detecting Kernel Semantic Bugs

OS kernels enforce a large number of security checks to validate system states. We observe that security checks are in fact very informative in inferring critical semantics in OS kernels. Specifically, security checks can reveal (1) whether an operation or a variable is critical but can be erroneous, (2) what particular errors may occur, and (3) constraints that should be enforced for the uses of a variable or a function. Such information is particularly valuable for detecting kernel semantic bugs because the detection typically requires understanding critical semantics. However, identifying security checks is challenging due to not only the lack of clear criteria but also the diversity of security checks.
A definition study of the on-orbit assembly operations for the outboard photovoltaic power modules for Space Station Freedom

A concept is described for the assembly of the outboard PV modules for Space Station Freedom. Analysis of the on-orbit assembly operations was performed using CADAM design graphics software. A scenario for assembly using the various assembly equipment, as currently defined, is described in words, tables and illustrations. This work is part of ongoing studies in the area of space station assembly. The outboard PV module and the assembly equipment programs are all in definition and preliminary design phases. An input is provided to the design process of assembly equipment programs. It is established that the outboard PV module assembly operations can be performed using the assembly equipment currently planned in the Space Station Freedom Program.
Abstract P3-01-01: A dual role of natural killer cells in breast cancer metastasis

BACKGROUND: Metastatic disease drives breast cancer mortality. We recently discovered that leading cells at the invasive edge of mammary tumor organoids retain a conserved basal epithelial program defined by their expression of keratin-14 (K14), establishing K14 as a good marker of invasive breast cancer cells. K14-positive invasive cells also exhibit characteristics that make them targets of immunosurveillance by natural killer (NK) cells. While NK cells are key immune mediators in the control of metastasis, our understanding of the specific mechanisms behind this regulation and its eventual evasion by metastatic cells remains incomplete. METHODS: We have developed a novel preclinical 3D co-culture assay to discover mechanisms behind interactions between K14+ invasive breast cancer cells and NK cells. Combined with in vivo assays of metastasis, we are able to determine how NK cells limit the early stages of metastasis and also how tumor cells can influence key NK cell properties. RESULTS: In ex vivo co-culture assays of NK cells isolated from healthy mouse donors and mammary tumor organoids from MMTV-PyMT and C31T mouse models of breast cancer, we demonstrate that NK cells limit the early stages of metastasis, namely invasion and colony formation. Antibodies to invasive K14+ cells were able to enhance the ability of NK cells to limit colony formation, suggesting antibody-dependent cell mediated cytotoxicity. Surprisingly, when isolated from tumor bearing mice, NK cells did not limit invasion and instead promoted colony formation. The in vivo adoptive transfer of NK cells from healthy donors prevents the progression of early lung metastatic seeds to macrometastases, while the adoptive transfer of cells isolated from tumor bearing donors promotes macrometastatic development. This growth promoting phenotype can be neutralized with antibodies targeting inhibitory cell surface receptors. CONCLUSIONS: Our ex vivo and in vivo data demonstrate that healthy donor NK cells can limit metastasis through the directed cytotoxicity against pioneering K14+ invasive cells. However, prolonged exposure to tumors reprogram NK cells from tumor killing to tumor promoting, specifically in promoting the outgrowth of macrometastases. Further, we can neutralize this effect using NK cell specific inhibitory antibodies. This is the first time inhibitory signaling on NK cells have been linked with a growth promoting phenotype. These data can provide insight into when the use of NK cell directed therapies can be used to treat or prevent clinically relevant metastatic disease. Citation Format: Isaac S. Chan, Hildur Knutsdoottir, Gayathri Ramakrishnan, Veena Padmanaban, Joel S. Bader, Elizabeth M. Jaffee, Andrew J. Ewald. A dual role of natural killer cells in breast cancer metastasis [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2019 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2019 Dec 10-14; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P3-01-01.
Determination and Identification of Hydrocarbon Pollutants by Thin-layer Chromatography

ABSTRACT Non-volatile hydrocarbons in a marine sediment extract have been determined by thin-layer chromatography (TLC) with precision approaching that obtainable by gas chromatography. The method involves chromatography of chloroform extracts on silica gel plates using hexane as a solvent. The hydrocarbons are charred and quantitated photodensitometrically. By use of a mixed alkane standard and a mixed aromatic standard for calibration, the saturated hydrocarbons, unsaturated hydrocarbons, and total nonvolatile hydrocarbons were determined with precisions of 8-12%, relative standard deviation. Elemental sulfur, traces of chlorinated hydrocarbons, and phthalate esters do not interfere and need not be removed. This thin-layer chromatographic method is also useful for oil spill source identification. A South Louisiana crude, a Kuwait crude, a Venezuelan bunker fuel, and a No. 2 fuel oil were easily distinguished by their thin-layer chromatograms. The chromatograms were only minimally affected by weathering of the oils. The TLC “fingerprinting” of waterborne oils was proven in a blind test with 4 pairs of oils.
Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)-Based Proteomics of Drug-Metabolizing Enzymes and Transporters

Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)-based proteomics is a powerful tool for identifying and quantifying proteins in biological samples, outperforming conventional antibody-based methods in many aspects. LC-MS/MS-based proteomics studies have revealed the protein abundances of many drug-metabolizing enzymes and transporters (DMETs) in tissues relevant to drug metabolism and disposition. Previous studies have consistently demonstrated marked interindividual variability in DMET protein expression, suggesting that varied DMET function is an important contributing factor for interindividual variability in pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of medications. Moreover, differential DMET expression profiles were observed across different species and in vitro models. Therefore, caution must be exercised when extrapolating animal and in vitro DMET proteomics findings to humans. In recent years, DMET proteomics has been increasingly utilized for the development of physiologically based pharmacokinetic models, and DMET proteins have also been proposed as biomarkers for prediction of the PK and PD of the corresponding substrate drugs. In sum, despite the existence of many challenges in the analytical technology and data analysis methods of LC-MS/MS-based proteomics, DMET proteomics holds great potential to advance our understanding of PK behavior at the individual level and to optimize treatment regimens via the DMET protein biomarker-guided precision pharmacotherapy.
Instant tough bioadhesive with triggerable benign detachment

Bioadhesives such as tissue adhesives, hemostatic agents, and tissue sealants have potential advantages over sutures and staples for wound closure, hemostasis, and integration of implantable devices onto wet tissues. However, existing bioadhesives display several limitations including slow adhesion formation, weak bonding, low biocompatibility, poor mechanical match with tissues, and/or lack of triggerable benign detachment. Here, we report a bioadhesive that can form instant tough adhesion on various wet dynamic tissues and can be benignly detached from the adhered tissues on demand with a biocompatible triggering solution. The adhesion of the bioadhesive relies on the removal of interfacial water from the tissue surface, followed by physical and covalent cross-linking with the tissue surface. The triggerable detachment of the bioadhesive results from the cleavage of bioadhesive's cross-links with the tissue surface by the triggering solution. After it is adhered to wet tissues, the bioadhesive becomes a tough hydrogel with mechanical compliance and stretchability comparable with those of soft tissues. We validate in vivo biocompatibility of the bioadhesive and the triggering solution in a rat model and demonstrate potential applications of the bioadhesive with triggerable benign detachment in ex vivo porcine models.
Expression and function of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor–1 in human colon cancer cells

4334 Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has been shown to be associated with tumor angiogenesis and poor prognosis in human colon cancer. VEGF receptor-1 (VEGFR-1/Flt-1) is a high-affinity receptor for VEGF and is typically viewed as being endothelial cell specific. Here we report on the expression and function of VEGFR-1 on colon cancer cell lines. VEGFR-1 was expressed in 7/7 colon cancer cell lines as determined by Western blot analysis. Treatment of the human colon cancer cell line SW480 with VEGF-A (ligand for both VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2) or VEGF-B (a ligand specific for VEGFR-1) led to activation of Erk 1/2. A blocking antibody to VEGFR-1 (18F1) completely inhibited the ability of VEGF-A and -B to activate Erk 1/2 in SW480 cells. VEGF-A and B did not increase colon cancer cell proliferation as determined by the MTT assay. However, VEGF-A and VEGF-B led to a significant induction of cancer cell motility and invasion through Matrigel. VEGF-A and -B stimulation of colon tumor cells also led to larger and more numerous colonies in soft agar. These data demonstrate that VEGFR-1 is functional on colon cancer cells and may contribute to colon cancer progression.
The impact of tumor fragmentation in patients with stage I uterine leiomyosarcoma on patterns of recurrence and oncologic outcome.

Abstract Objective To evaluate the impact of tumor fragmentation on oncologic outcomes in patients with stage I uterine leiomyosarcoma (uLMS). Methods We identified all patients diagnosed with stage I uLMS presenting to our institution within three months of primary surgery, 1/2000–1/2019. Patients with recurrent disease were excluded. The non-morcellated group had total hysterectomy without documented specimen fragmentation; the morcellated group, total hysterectomy with documented specimen fragmentation. We defined fragmentation as manual fragmentation or morcellation (via power morcellator or otherwise) of the specimen in peritoneal cavity or vagina. Appropriate statistical analyses were performed. Results 152 patients met inclusion criteria. 107 (70%) underwent total hysterectomy (non-morcellated); 45 (30%) underwent morcellation. Median age at diagnosis for the entire cohort was 55 years (range 30–91). Median follow-up was 42.1 months (range 1.1–197.8). 40 (26.3%) patients had primary surgery at our institution, 112 (73.7%) at an outside hospital. In total 110 (72.3%) recurred: 72/107 (67.2%) non-morcellated; 38/44 (86.3%) morcellated. Median progression-free survival (PFS) for non-morcellated versus morcellated was 13.8 (95%CI 9.2–20.2) versus 7.3 months (95%CI 3–13.1), HR 1.5 (95%CI 1.02–2.24); P = 0.04. Median overall survival (OS) for non-morcellated versus morcellated was 82.1 (95%CI 52.4–122) versus 47.8 months (95%CI 28.5–129.6), HR 1.1 (95%CI 0.67–1.82); P = 0.7. Among patients with recurrence, 69.4% of non-morcellated recurred at hematogenous sites only, 18.1% recurred in peritoneum only; 28.9% of morcellated recurred at hematogenous sites, 63.2% in peritoneum. Race, lymphovascular invasion, postoperative chemotherapy, were independently associated with PFS. Mitotic index was independently associated with OS. Conclusions Tumor fragmentation/morcellation was associated with significantly higher risk of recurrence and a nearly 4-fold increase in peritoneal recurrence. Prognostic biomarkers remain important in predicting oncologic outcomes, independent of fragmentation or treatment.
Frailty Is Associated with In-Hospital Morbidity and Nonroutine Disposition in Brain Tumor Patients Undergoing Craniotomy.

Objective Frailty is associated with postoperative morbidity in multiple surgical disciplines. We evaluated the association between frailty and early postoperative outcomes for brain tumor patients using a national database. Methods We reviewed the Nationwide Readmissions Database from 2010 to 2014. International Classification of Diseases, ninth revision, codes were used to identify benign and malignant brain tumors treated with surgical resection. Pituitary tumors were excluded. Frailty was assessed using the Johns Hopkins Adjusted Clinical Groups frailty indicator tool. Multivariable exact logistic regression was used to conduct analyses assessing the association between frailty and the outcome variables. Statistical significance was defined as P Results The criteria for frailty were met for 7209 of 87,835 patients (8.2%). After adjustment for patient and hospital factors, frailty was independently associated with in-hospital surgical complications (odds ratio [OR], 1.48; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.37–1.59; P Conclusion Frailty is associated with in-hospital complications and nonroutine disposition after craniotomy for benign and malignant brain tumors. Additional work is needed to identify prehabilitation or in-hospital strategies to improve the care and outcomes of these at-risk patients.
Distal Radius Physeal Bar and Ulnar Overgrowth: Indications for Treatment.

Background Distal radius physeal bar with associated growth arrest can occur because of fractures, ischemia, infection, radiation, tumor, blood dyscrasias, and repetitive stress injuries. The age of the patient as well as the size, shape, and location of the bony bridge determines the deformity and associated pathology that will develop. Methods A search of the English literature was performed using PubMed and multiple search terms to identify manuscripts dealing with the evaluation and treatment of distal radius physeal bars and ulnar overgrowth. Single case reports and level V studies were excluded. Results Manuscripts evaluating distal radial physeal bars and their management were identified. A growth discrepancy between the radius and ulna can lead to distal radioulnar joint instability, ulnar impaction, and degenerative changes in the carpus and triangular fibrocartilage complex. Advanced imaging aids in the evaluation and mapping of a physeal bar. Treatment options for distal radius physeal bars include observation, bar resection±interposition, epiphysiodeses of the ulna±completion epiphysiodesis of the radius, ulnar shortening osteotomy±diagnostic arthroscopy to manage associated triangular fibrocartilage complex pathology, radius osteotomy, and distraction osteogenesis. Conclusions Decision-making when presented with a distal radius physeal bar is multifactorial and should incorporate the age and remaining growth potential of the patient, the size and location of the bar, and patient and family expectations.