cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Bayesian methods for latent trait modelling of longitudinal data

Latent trait models have long been used in the social science literature for studying variables that can only be measured indirectly through multiple items. However, such models are also very useful in accounting for correlation in multivariate and longitudinal data, particularly when outcomes have mixed measurement scales. Bayesian methods implemented with Markov chain Monte Carlo provide a flexible framework for routine fitting of a broad class of latent variable (LV) models, including very general structural equation models. However, in considering LV models, a number of challenging issues arise, including identifiability, confounding between the mean and variance, uncertainty in different aspects of the model, and difficulty in computation. Motivated by the problem of modelling multidimensional longitudinal data, this article reviews the recent literature, provides some recommendations and highlights areas in need of additional research, focusing on methods for model uncertainty.
Alkoxyalkyl Esters of (S)-9-[3-Hydroxy-2-(Phosphonomethoxy)Propyl]Adenine Are Potent Inhibitors of the Replication of Wild-Type and Drug-Resistant Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 In Vitro

(S)-9-[3-Hydroxy-2-(phosphonomethoxy)propyl]adenine [(S)-HPMPA], is an effective broad-spectrum antiviral against many DNA viruses but has been reported to be inactive against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). We synthesized several alkoxyalkyl esters of (S)-HPMPA and now report that hexadecyloxypropyl-(S)-HPMPA [HDP-(S)-HPMPA] and octadecyloxyethyl-(S)-HPMPA [ODE-(S)-HPMPA]had 50% effective concentrations of 0.4 to 7.0 nanomolar and were nearly fully active against HIV variants having reverse transcriptase mutations M184V and K103N and against a zidovudine-resistant variant with mutations D67N, K70R, T215Y, and K219Q. Resistance to HDP-(S)-HPMPA and ODE-(S)-HPMPA was noted for a mutant with mutation K65R. HDP-(S)-HPMPA is also active against herpes simplex virus type 1, human cytomegalovirus, hepatitis B virus, adenoviruses, and orthopoxviruses and is worthy of further evaluation as a possibly therapy for HIV infection.
High performance parallelized discrete event simulation of stochastic queueing networks

Queueing network simulations provide a stress-test for the study of parallel discrete-event simulation because each event involves some synchronization overhead, and very little computation. In this paper we describe techniques for optimizing the performance of large queueing network simulations using a shared-memory multiprocessor. We give empirical data showing that good speedups can sometfines be achieved.
Growth of the Proximal Fibular Physis and Remodeling of the Epiphysis after Microvascular Transfer. A Case Report

The advantages of use of vascularized grafts as compared with use of non-vascularized grafts have been demonstrated experimentally and clinically in skeletally mature individuals. These advantages include skeletal healing without creeping substitution22 of the graft from the surrounding host bone8,29; more rapid incorporation and union9; lower rates of fracture, infection, resorption, and non-union3,12,31; the option of using the grafts for the treatment of established infections8,15 and segmental defects larger than five centimeters3,8; greater initial strength8,18,25; remodeling in a manner similar to that of viable bone8,16,18,25; the ability to respond to biomechanical loading physiologically9,13,18,25; increased hypertrophy7; and a decreased duration of immobilization after implantation11. Another, theoretical advantage of use of a microvascularized fibular graft is the potential for growth of the graft through the open physis. Continued growth of the physis after vascularized bone transfer was demonstrated by Weiland in a dog model as reported by Burwell et al.4. Microvascular transfer of the combined physis and epiphysis after digital amputation has resulted in longitudinal growth in children20. We describe the case of a patient who had excision of an osteosarcoma of the proximal part of the humerus. The skeletal defect was treated with insertion of a microvascularized free fibular graft, including the proximal physis and epiphysis, into the glenohumeral joint. The proximal physis remained open and demonstrated continued growth and remodeling four years after the transfer. An eight-year-old girl was seen because she had had pain in the right shoulder for three months. There was no history of trauma. The findings …
Vygotsky's perspective on the development of imagination and creativity

Abstract From the three translated papers of Vygotsky which directly addressed creativity, one can extract the outlines of a viable theory explaining the development of creativity. Vygotsky claimed that creative imagination is the distinguishing feature between the world of culture and the world of nature, and the basis of all mature mental activity. He found the origins of creative imagination in early manifestations of play, and explained that it goes through a process of integration and evolution following the development of concepts and reasoning during adolescence. It develops into mature creative imagination only in adulthood The argument in the present article is that Vygotsky's explanation can resolve contradictions that exist in the empirical findings on the development of creativity during adolescence. In addition to a general theoretical examination of Vygotsky's perspective on creativity, the theory's relevance to developmental issues in creativity is critically examined, and its relationship ...
Current video coding standards: H.264/AVC, Dirac, AVS China and VC-1

Video coding standards: H.264/AVC, DIRAC, AVS China and VC-1 are presented. These are the latest standards and are adopted by ITU-T/ISO-IEC, BBC, China standards organization and SMPTE respectively. Besides presenting these standards, research potential and as well projects (both at UG and grad levels) are emphasized. These are available by accessing the database for research and projects in [18]. Web/ftp sites for accessing standards documents, software, test sequences, conformance bit streams, industry activities etc are provided.
Regulation Of Erk Phosphorylation In Calreticulin Knockout Mouse Embryonic Fibroblast Cells

Extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK1/2) is a member of the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway (MAPK). ERK1/2 has a wide variety of functions including cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration to name a few. Thus alteration in the ERK1/2 pathway can result in different pathologies such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. ERK MAP kinase is activated through binding of extracellular growth factors such as PDGF and EGF to their respective receptors. Calreticulin (CRT) is an endoplasmic reticulum (ER) chaperone that aids in the protein folding and maturation. It also plays a role in the ER quality control process. Our lab previously illustrated that CRT knockout cells compensate for ER stress by activating ER associated protein degradation. We also demonstrated that loss of CRT increased cellular resistance to apoptosis due to activation of Akt pathway. Activation of ERK signaling pathway was shown to protect against ER-induced cell death. To date little is known about the role of CRT in the ERK pathway. Thus the objective of our study was to examine changes in ERK1/2 kinase and the growth factor receptors in CRT knockout cells. Western blot analysis with anti-ERK1/2 antibody illustrated no significant change in the ERK1/2 protein level in crt−/− as compared to wt cells. However, the basal p-ERK1/2 was significantly higher in the crt−/− as compared to wt cells after overnight starvation. Interestingly, FBS stimulation resulted in increased phosphorylation of ERK1/2 to the same level in both cell lines. On the other hand 10 min EGF stimulation resulted in a significantly higher p-ERK1/2 in CRT knockout cells as compared to the wt cells. Overall, these data illustrate that loss of CRT function results in increased ERK phosphorylation and might contribute to the observed increased resistance to apoptosis and cell proliferation.
Nuclear form factor sensitivity in the reaction /sup 3/He(. pi. /sup -/,. pi. /sup 0/)/sup 3/H

Charge exchange angular distributions for the reaction /sup 3/He(..pi../sup -/,..pi../sup 0/)/sup 3/H are calculated using realistic nuclear form factors obtained from electron scattering experiments in the Glauber multiple scattering formalism. It is found that the charge exchange scattering is not very sensitive to the magnetic form factors at low q and, in particular, is not sensitive to changes in the mean square magnetic radius at the +- 5% level. Calculations are also compared with the most recent experimental results.
Up to Speed: The Beginnings of Compressible Flow Study at Mississippi State

The study of aeronautical engineering at Mississippi State University began in 1933. In 1944, Franklin S. Edwards, one of its earliest faculty members in aeronautical engineering, left for a year to complete his master’s degree at Caltech, during a time when Karman, Liepmann and others were sorting out the fundamentals of compressible flow analysis. Soon after Edwards’s return, particularly during and after 1947, topics related to compressible flow began appearing in courses taught at Mississippi State. A master’s thesis presented in 1951 was on the construction of the first blowdown supersonic wind tunnel in the department. This paper traces the foundation of the study of compressible flow at Mississippi State, both in the classroom and in the laboratory.
Robust Wind and Precipitation Responses to the Mount Pinatubo Eruption, as Simulated in the CMIP5 Models

AbstractThe volcanic eruption of Mount Pinatubo in June 1991 is the largest terrestrial eruption since the beginning of the satellite era. Here, the monthly evolution of atmospheric temperature, zonal winds, and precipitation following the eruption in 14 CMIP5 models is analyzed and strong and robust stratospheric and tropospheric circulation responses are demonstrated in both hemispheres, with tropospheric anomalies maximizing in November 1991. The simulated Southern Hemisphere circulation response projects strongly onto the positive phase of the southern annular mode (SAM), while the Northern Hemisphere exhibits robust North Atlantic and North Pacific responses that differ significantly from that of the typical northern annular mode (NAM) pattern. In contrast, observations show a negative SAM following the eruption, and internal variability must be considered along with forced responses. Indeed, evidence is presented that the observed El Nino climate state during and after this eruption may oppose the e...
Combinatorial Discovery Through a Distributed Outreach Program: Investigation of the Photoelectrolysis Activity of p-Type Fe, Cr, Al Oxides

We report the identification of a semiconducting p-type oxide containing iron, aluminum, and chromium (Fe2–x–yCrxAlyO3) with previously unreported photoelectrolysis activity that was discovered by an undergraduate scientist participating in the Solar Hydrogen Activity research Kit (SHArK) program. The SHArK program is a distributed combinatorial science outreach program designed to provide a simple and inexpensive way for high school and undergraduate students to participate in the search for metal oxide materials that are active for the photoelectrolysis of water. The identified Fe2–x–yCrxAlyO3 photoelectrolysis material possesses many properties that make it a promising candidate for further optimization for potential application in a photoelectrolysis device. In addition to being composed of earth abundant elements, the FeCrAl oxide material has a band gap of 1.8 eV. Current–potential measurements for Fe2–x–yCrxAlyO3 showed an open circuit photovoltage of nearly 1 V; however, the absorbed photon conver...
Acting Bicultural Versus Feeling Bicultural: Cultural Adaptation and School-Related Attitudes Among U.S. Latina/o Youth

This study examines whether incorporating a multidimensional perspective to the study of the relation between cultural adaptation and academic attitudes among Latinas/os in the United States can cl...
Thermal Expansion of Rutile from 100 to 700 °K.

The thermal expansion of a single crystal of rutile (TiO2) was determined in directions parallel to its crystallographic axes. A unique macroscopic technique was used wherein a cube-shaped specimen was cut from the anisotropic crystal, each of its six faces polished flat and nearly parallel to the face opposite it, and the expansion measured along each of its three body axes with an Abbe-Pulfrich interferometer. The relationship between the expansion along the body axes of the specimen and that in the crystallographic directions was determined from a Laue x-ray pattern. The unusual behavior of the thermal expansion that was observed can be explained by assuming an acoustical and optical contribution where the corresponding Gruneisen constants are 2.80 and 0.75 respectively.
Flowability and Desulfurization of High Alumina Blast Furnace Slag

KTH viscosity model was applied to predict the viscosity of blast furnace slag with high content of alumina, and the viscosity measured by a viscosity meter. The relationship between flowability and chemical composition of the slag and temperature of molten iron was studied. Multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to demonstrate the effects of compositions of slag and molten iron on the desulfurization ability of slag. The results showed that a high proportion of Al2O3in the slag reduced the flowability of slag. The content of Al2O3should be controlled below 18.5%(ω), or at least below 19.5%(ω). A moderate content of MgO improved the flowability of slag. The mass ratio of(CaO+MgO) to(SiO2+Al2O3) in the slag should be controlled at above 0.92, while the mass ratio of CaO to SiO2should be lower than 1.2. The mass ratio of MgO to Al2O3should be higher than 0.48, while the MgO content was favorably less than 12.5%(ω) in the slag. The temperature of molten iron and mass ratio of CaO to SiO2in the slag were the main influential factors on the desulphurization ability of slag, by contrast, MgO content and other factors had little effect on it.
New Approach to Myelodysplasia

Data from 60 patients with myelodysplasia are presented. Electromyography of the periurethral striated muscle in conjunction with simultaneous cystometry allows prediction of those patients at risk from urinary tract infection in 100 per cent of the cases. Intermittent self-catheterization is an effective form of therapy for bladder dysfunction in patients with myelodysplasia. An orderly approach to the evaluation and management of bladder dysfunction is outlined.
Introduction: Formal Opposition in the Casual Academy

Unsatisfied with the incrementalism of managed reform, contingent academics across the United States and Canada have articulated their struggles in ways both conclusive and generative. At once a voicing and a connecting, that articulation is partly the resounding result of committed organizing, partly a promise of future action. In the essays that follow, contingent labor activists recount the history and context from which Equity Week emerged, and offer important insights for furthering the struggle.
Superconductivity in the Alloy System V3 GaxSi1 − x

The recent discoveries of superconductivity above 20°K in the Nb3AlxGe1 − x 1 and Nb3Ga2 alloy systems have caused increased interest in the search for high-temperature superconductors. Pessall et al. 3 predicted that high-transition temperatures should be obtained by alloying the s-W compounds V3Ga—V3Si due to the optimum electron density attainable in this system. This system has been investigated by Otto,4 who found an increase in T c from 14.5 to 14.8°K between V3Ga and V3Ga0.8Si0.2 and large decreases in T c for V3GaxSi1 – x samples with x< 0.5. Previous studies5 had shown that for V3Ga0.5Si0. 5, T c , ranged from 8.6 to 11.9°K.
The Evolution of Fairy Tale Magic from Straparola to Basile and Perrault

Within the magic in Giovan Francesco Straparola’s tales in the Pleasant Nights, it is principally satanic black magic as practiced in “Ortodosio and Isabella” (VII.1) and “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice” (VIII.5) that conflicted with canon law. The sorceress Gabriela in “Ortodosio and Isabella,” whose historical namesake was condemned by church authorities and executed 200 years earlier, demonstrates this clearly. But neither church nor state had a position on Straparola’s fairy tale magic.
Citizen Participation in the Formulation of Biomedical Policy

This chapter examines the role of the individual as a citizen in a democratic political system and seeks to understand the different factors that lead some citizens to influence health and biomedical policy, while other citizens remain inactive on these issues. It is essential to recognize that there are some systemic factors that affect the ways in which citizens seek to influence public policy on any issue. Although issues such as the costs and financing of health care will continue to be framed largely by electoral results, the determination of medical research priorities, the use and regulation of new health and medical technologies, and the regulation and monitoring of the health care system itself are almost totally out of the electoral process. It is essential to recognize that the audiences for policy-related communications are significantly different from the audiences of medical and health information. Those adults who are interested in policy-level issues tend to be better educated, and this pattern is stronger for science-based issues or controversies.
Types of Majority-Minority Situations

All over the world in the late twentieth century, perhaps more than ever before, the puzzling phenomena of intergroup relations command attention. Civil rights, “internal colonialism,” desegregation, integration, discrimination, pluralism, genocide, apartheid—these are terms the student of contemporary life must learn to use. Western European nations discovered that “guest workers,” whom they have employed by the millions, are something more than cogs in an economic machine. England, with a steady migration of people from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Africa, and the West Indies, found herself faced with problems of a color bar and passed an unprecedented law limiting immigration. Pressures against persons of Indian descent in the new nations of East Africa not only reshaped intergroup relations in those lands but influenced Britain’s restrictive immigration policy. The South African government boldly defends a policy of apartheid but keeps stumbling over the problem of economic interdependence among the races. The United States, rapidly becoming a thoroughly urbanized society, discovers that problems of racial inequalities have become nationwide. The Soviet Union not only struggles with questions of equity and control of her own racial and cultural minorities but finds that her ancient fear of the “Mongol hordes,” now the Chinese, intrudes into international relations. And, as Lucien Pye observes (1975, p. 502): What is often overlooked is that the Chinese on their side have an equally powerful historic fear of tribal peoples moving down into their agricultural domains. The Great Wall of China is a monument to this fear, and now that the Chinese are reacting again to a threat from the north it is understandable that the historic imagery of the dangerous “barbarians” of the border regions, that is, some of their national minorities, has again come alive in the Chinese imagination.
Justice, Liberty, and Equality: Adam Smith’s Political Economy

Adam Smith, the “father of capitalism,” is often considered to be an advocate of laissez-faire, a concept he rejected. This laissez-faire misinterpretation of Smith’s ideas has supported a savage capitalism that undermines the equal opportunity for happiness. Instead of a simplistic emphasis on liberty alone, he proposed spreading wealth to all economic classes by a more complex combination of justice, liberty, and equality. Obviously, he advocated a market economy, but ethics alone has not produced his ideal market. His tripartite formula requires justice and equal opportunity; if these are not provided by ethics, then an umpire of capitalism is needed, which means a significant role for government.
Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection and the Proinflammatory Effects of Injection Drug Use.

Background. Chronic inflammation, as defined by persistent immune activation, is associated with adverse clinical outcomes. People who inject drugs (PWID) have evidence of persistent immune activation. Here, in a cohort of PWID with or without hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, we sought to dissect out the contribution of chronic HCV infection (common in PWID) from the effects of injection drug use itself. Methods. Four groups of study volunteers were recruited: group 1 comprised active PWID; group 2, individuals who ceased injecting drugs 1–2 months before recruitment; group 3, individuals who ceased injecting drugs 3–4 months before recruitment; and group 4, healthy volunteers. Soluble and cell-associated markers of immune activation were quantified. Results. HCV-viremic PWID have elevated levels of immune activation when compared to healthy volunteers. Cessation of injection drug use results in a decline in immune activation in the absence of HCV viremia, while HCV-viremic individuals who previously were PWID continue to harbor elevated levels of immune activation, as defined by increased levels of soluble CD14 and tumor necrosis factor α and by the presence of CD38+HLA-DR+ CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Conclusions. Immune activation, a well-defined surrogate of poor clinical outcome that is elevated in PWID, can regress to normal levels in former injection drug users who are HCV aviremic. Therefore, enhanced harm-reduction efforts should incorporate aggressive treatment of HCV infection. Clinical Trials Registration. {"type":"clinical-trial","attrs":{"text":"NCT01831284","term_id":"NCT01831284"}}NCT01831284.
Effects of Anemia on the Rehabilitation Outcomes in Elderly Patients in the Post-Acute Care Setting.

Background - More than 3 million people in the United States over the age of 65 are anemic. The evidence indicates that older people with anemia suffer hospitalizations, physical decline and disability more than people without anemia. Additionally there are reports that anemia is an independent risk factor for this decline in physical performance in those over the age of 65. Objective - The goal of this study was to detail if anemia significantly affects patient’s rehabilitation outcomes by focusing on the ability to perform activities of daily living (ADL) as assessed by the physical therapist, the disposition upon discharge (meeting the therapy goals) and an analysis of length of stay (LOS) in relation to anemia. Methods - We conducted a chart review of 260 medical records of patients who underwent rehabilitation therapy at the North Chicago Veterans Affairs Medical Center, and detailed the progress of 69 of these patients who received ADL therapy. The study is ongoing with a projected chart review of 437 medical records, and with an estimated final sample size of 150. Univariate and multivariate analysis was conducted in relation to our outcome measures. Results - The anemic group had 43 patients and the non-anemic 26. Average values for anemic patients were: Hgb 11 Hct 32, MCV 88, MCH 29.2, RDW 15.6, Platelets 259, the non-anemic patients values were: Hgb 13.4, Hct 39, MCV 89, MCH 33.3, RDW 14.3, platelets 229. The patients with anemia had a median change in ADL scores of 9 versus non-anemic patients’ median change in scores of 12 (p=0.154). Length of stay was 51 days (median) for anemic patients and 36 days (median) for non-anemic patients (p=0.108) Of the non-anemic patients, 19 out of 26 (73%) met the goals of therapy and 21 out of 43 (49%) of the anemic patients met the goals of therapy (p=0.055). Surprisingly, only 3 out of the 43 (7%) anemic patients were treated for their anemia or had work up done to identify the cause of the anemia. The multivariate model for length of stay indicated that anemia was not significant (p=0.842), the morbidity of the patient was marginally not significant (p=0.089), however, the patients’ age was statistically significant at p=0.05. For the multivariate model of ADL improvement the results were: anemia p=0.186, sex p=0.298, Charlson index p=0.50. Conclusion - There is a definite lack in the identification and treatment of anemia in patients undergoing rehabilitation. Anemia exerts an influence on the course of patient therapy/recovery and should be addressed as an individual problem. Anemic patients undergoing rehabilitation are scoring lower, and are admitted longer to the hospital.
Cougar Predation Rates and Prey Composition in the Pryor Mountains of Wyoming and Montana

Abstract Understanding predator-prey dynamics is a fundamental principle of ecology and an ideal component for management decisions. Across North America, the impact of cougars (Puma concolor) on their prey varies regionally. To document the relationships between cougars, bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis canadensis), mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus), and feral horses (Equus caballus) on the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area and the Pryor Mountains, we deployed GPS collars on 6 cougars (the total number residing on the study area), and visited their clusters to determine predation rates and foraging patterns. We examined the composition of cougar kills by species, mule deer sex-age classes, prey size classes, season, and cougar sex. As a measure of selection, we examined the composition of prey killed relative to the composition of ungulates obtained during an aerial survey. We found mule deer were the primary prey, while bighorn sheep constituted secondary prey. While cougars selected for bighorn sheep...
Review of McGinty, Geuss and Marvin on partial or total meniscectomy

This classic discusses the original 1977 publication of ‘Partial or total meniscectomy: a comparative analysis’, which was the first to critically evaluate the outcomes of a total meniscectomy versus partial meniscectomy. It found that partial meniscectomy led to shorter hospital stays, a quicker recovery and, at an average of 5.5 years postoperatively, a better functional outcome and less radiographic joint space narrowing. This article, combined with other confirmatory studies, had international clinical significance as open total meniscectomies were replaced by open partial meniscectomies, and eventually arthroscopic partial meniscectomies, which became the most commonly performed orthopaedic procedure for much of the ensuing decades.
Factors Concerning Veterans With Dementia, Their Caregivers, and Coordination of Care: A Systematic Literature Review.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Military veterans diagnosed with dementia compose a large portion of our population. Often ignored are their caregivers and their plight as well as the availability, quality, and accessibility of health care for this demographic. The purpose of this systematic literature review is three fold: to identify opportunities available to increase public awareness on the subject; to identify areas of improvement in the level of care and quality of life for our nation's veterans; and to identify if adequate resources are available to veterans with dementia and their caregivers. Materials and Methods: The authors conducted systematic searches of three databases: PubMed via The National Center for Biotechnology Information, the Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) Complete via Ebson B. Stephens Company (EBSCO Host), and Google. Data were collected regarding providing care to veterans who are suffering from dementia or Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers betwee...
Human Resource Management Best Practices and Globalization: The Universality of Common Sense

Popular strategies for reform have come directly from the private sector in what is perhaps the most profound redefinition of “public” administration since the field first emerged as an identifiable specialty. The purpose of this paper is to examine the context out of which these reforms have grown, the challenges that have arisen as a result, and cases where private sector reform strategies have been successfully (and sometimes unsuccessfully) applied in human resource management (HRM). We discuss the benefits and hazards of many of the reforms and conclude that restoring a measure of confidence in the legitimate role of the civil service is essential for nations dealing with the challenges of globalization.
Radical Nephrectomy for Localized Renal Tumors: Optimum Oncological and Renal Functional Considerations

There will be an estimated 58,240 new cases and 13,040 deaths from kidney cancer in the USA in 2010 [1]. Compared to 1971, this represents a fivefold increase in the incidence and twofold increase in the mortality of renal cancer. Associated risk factors for kidney cancer include hypertension, obesity, and African American race. Epidemiological evidence suggests an increase in all stages of renal cancer, including the advanced and metastatic cases. It is now understood that renal cortical tumors are a family of distinct tumors with variable histology, cytogenetic defects, and metastatic potential [2]. Approximately 90% of the tumors that metastasize are the conventional clear cell carcinoma [3]; however, they account for only 54% of the total number of resected tumors. Approximately 30–40% of renal tumor patients will either present with or later develop metastatic disease. The widespread use of the modern abdominal imaging techniques (CT, MRI, and abdominal ultrasound) over the last two decades, usually ordered to evaluate nonspecific abdominal and musculoskeletal complaints or during unrelated cancer care, has changed the profile of the typical renal tumor patient from one with a massive, symptomatic tumor at presentation to one with a small, asymptomatic, renal mass (<4 cm) incidentally discovered in 70% of the cases [4]. A survival rate of 90% or greater, depending on the tumor histology, is expected for these small tumors if partial (PN) or radical nephrectomy (RN) is performed.
How to Read Dance: Making Sense of Contemporary Dance Choreography Through the WifiBody.ph 2018 Choreography Competition in Manila

To read implies the ability to interpret, process, and make meaning out of what is seen (or experienced). But to know that we see what we see, we need to know that we have the inherent human capacity to understand (think, digest, make sense of) abstract action and translate it to objective words, thoughts, and ideas. To be able to articulate what we see in dance, we need to know how we can read dance.1 What is afforded by reading dance is the articulation of what is danced in relation to its implicit but embodied aesthetic, social and compositional elements, and the viewer’s own perceptive and aesthetic preferences. By reading, what is danced becomes the intersection of various viewpoints of apprehension and world-views of the viewer’s context, the choreographer’s context, the dancer/s’ context, and ultimately of the contemporary dance context in Manila. The WifiBody.ph Choreographers Competition is a biannual contest that deals mainly with solo-duet pieces for new choreographers. It functions as the first tier of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Choreographers Series curated by Myra Beltran and Denisa Reyes. It was founded in 2006 as the New Choreographers Competition under the larger WiFi Body Festival of the Contemporary Dance Network (that was consolidated in Beltran’s Dance Forum studio in Quezon City) in collaboration with CCP. When the festival ended its run, it was re-launched in 2016 under the CCP Choreographers Series. As a platform specifically for new choreographers, it launched the careers of many distinguished contemporary dance choreographers in the Philippines, and was the first to question and use the term contemporary dance in Manila. For the 2018 edition, eleven ten-minute works were selected from among 24 submitted pieces. I look at these works to investigate the ways in which we can read dances particular to the contemporary dance practice in the Philippines, and to inquire into what these interpretations could mean in a larger context.
A degenerate polar lattice for cloaking in full two-dimensional elastodynamics and statics

A lattice design of a cloak for full two-dimensional elasticity is suggested when the background continuum is isotropic with Lam parameters (,) satisfying . The lattice is polar in the sense that i...
A pilot investigation of neuroimaging predictors for the benefits from pivotal response treatment for children with autism.

Abstract Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) frequently exhibit language delays and functional communication deficits. Pivotal response treatment (PRT) is an effective intervention for targeting these skills; however, similar to other behavioral interventions, response to PRT is variable across individuals. Thus, objective markers capable of predicting treatment response are critically-needed to identify which children are most likely to benefit from this intervention. In this pilot study, we investigated whether structural neuroimaging measures from language regions in the brain are associated with response to PRT. Children with ASD (n = 18) who were receiving PRT to target their language deficits were assessed with MRI at baseline. T1-weighted images were segmented with FreeSurfer and morphometric measures of the primary language regions (inferior frontal (IFG) and superior temporal (STG) gyri) were evaluated. Children with ASD and language deficits did not exhibit the anticipated relationships between baseline structural measures of language regions and baseline language abilities, as assessed by the number of utterances displayed during a structured laboratory observation (SLO). Interestingly, the level of improvement on the SLO was correlated with baseline asymmetry of the IFG, and the size of the left STG at baseline was correlated with the level of improvement on standardized parental questionnaires. Although very preliminary, the observed associations between baseline structural properties of language regions and improvement in language abilities following PRT suggest that neuroimaging measures may be able to help identify which children are most likely to benefit from specific language treatments, which could help improve precision medicine for children with ASD.
Differential biomechanical properties of mouse distal colon and rectum innervated by the splanchnic and pelvic afferents

Mechanical distension/stretch—not heat, cutting, or pinching—reliably evoke pain from distal colon and rectum. We report different local mechanics along the longitudinal length of the colorectum, w...
Epidemiology of opioid-related visits to US Emergency Departments, 1999-2013: A retrospective study from the NHAMCS (National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey).

Abstract Goals To characterize the epidemiology of opioid-related visits to United States (US) emergency departments (EDs) and describe trends in opioid-related visits over time. Design Retrospective cohort study Cases The National Hospital Ambulatory Care Survey (NHAMCS) was used to identify opioid-related ED visits between 1999 and 2013. Measurements The NHAMCS is an annual, weighted, multi-stage survey which allows for the study of ambulatory care services within a nationally representative sample of US hospitals. We used ICD-9 codes to identify ED visits related to opioid use and abuse. We applied visit weights calculated by NHAMCS to generate nation-wide estimates regarding the overall prevalence of opioid-related visits, and demographic characteristics of these patients. We report trends with respect to opioid-related visits and ED resource utilization between 1999 and 2013. Results 1072 visits were included, representing 2,731,000 nation-wide opioid-related ED encounters between 1999 and 2013. During this time, opioid-related ED visits increased from 125,000 in 1999 to over 300,000 visits in 2013. Between 1999–2001 and 2011–2013 opioid-related visits increased by 170%. Greater numbers of such visits occurred across nearly all demographic groups, and all regions of the US. Weighted visits among women increased by 250% between these time periods. Over these periods, opioid-related ED visits resulting in hospital admission increased by over 240%. The proportion of ED visits that were related to opioids doubled from 1999 (0.12%) to 2013 (0.25%). Conclusions Opioid-related ED encounters and resource utilization both rose substantially between 1999 and 2013, with consistent increases across a broad spectrum of demographic groups.
The Social Amplification View of facial expression

I offer a novel view of the mechanisms underlying the spontaneous facial expression of emotion. According to my Social Amplification View (SAV), facial expressions result from the interplay of two processes: an emotional process that activates specific facial muscles, though not always to the point of visible contraction, followed by a social cognitive process that amplifies these activations so that they may function more effectively as social signals. I argue that SAV outperforms both the Neurocultural View and the Behavioral Ecology View, as well as previously proposed syntheses of these views, in accounting for various empirical findings.
Snapshots of Great Leadership, 2nd Edition, by Jon P. Howell and Isaac Wanasika

A book of stories. That is how Howell and Wanasika describe their book. They present a collection of stories, or snapshots, about leaders. Each story captures information about “who they were, what...
Chimeric Capsid Proteins Impact Transduction Efficiency of Haploid Adeno-Associated Virus Vectors

Our previous studies have demonstrated that haploid AAV vectors made from capsids of two different serotypes induced high transduction and prevented serotype-specific antibody binding. In this study, we explored the transduction efficiency of several haploid viruses, which were made from the VP1/VP2 of one serotype and VP3 of another compatible serotype. After systemic injection of 2 × 1010 vg of AAV vectors into mice, the haploid AAV vectors, composed of VP1/VP2 from serotypes 8 or 9, and VP3 from AAV2, displayed a two to seven-fold increase in liver transduction compared with those of parental AAV2 vectors. Furthermore, a chimeric AAV2/8 VP1/VP2 with N-terminus of VP1/VP2 from AAV2 and C-terminus (VP3 domain) from AAV8 was constructed, and produced the haploid vector 28m-2VP3 with AAV2 VP3. The haploid 28m-2VP3 vector showed a five-fold higher transduction than that of the vectors composed solely of AAV2 VPs. Remarkably, the 28m-2VP3 vectors also induced a significant increase in transgene expression compared to the vectors composed of AAV8 VP1/VP2 with AAV2 VP3. The results suggest that the difference in the VP1/VP2 N-terminal region between AAV2 and AAV8 may allow better “communication” between the VP1/VP2 N-terminus of AAV2 with its cognate VP3. Similarly, the haploid vectors, VP1/VP2 from serotypes 8 or 9 and VP3 from AAV3, achieved higher transductions in multiple tissue types beyond typical tropism compared with those of AAV3 vectors. Consistently, higher vector genome copy numbers were detected in these tissues, indicating that an incorporation of non-cognate VP1/VP2 might influence the cellular tropism of the haploid vectors. However, there was no significant difference or even decreased transductions when compared with those of parental AAV8 or AAV9 vectors. In summary, these studies provide insight into current development strategies of AAV vectors that can increase AAV transduction across multiple tissues.
Trials and Tribulations of a “Rookie” Assistant Professor

Summary Nobody chooses the academic life for the glamour and the pay. At the same time, an offer as an assistant professor at an R1 institute is statistically unlikely, and the road to tenure is tenuous at best. If you’re one of the lucky few to start down this path, you may appreciate some tips for the journey.
Cognitive profiles in persons with opioid use disorder enrolled in methadone treatment.

Cognitive impairment is common in persons with opioid use disorder and associated with poor treatment outcomes, including elevated risk for relapse. Much less is known about the underlying structur...
To shape or adapt: Knowledge problems, epistemologies, and strategic postures under Knightian uncertainty

Despite the longstanding recognition of the importance of uncertainty in strategy, strategy researchers have given limited attention to the distinct challenges and processes involved in strategy ma...
Laws governing the practice of pharmacy

Abstract The legal boundaries of the pharmacy profession are complex and voluminous. This chapter unpacks the laws into four discrete sections. These include state law describing licensing and professional conduct, administered by pharmacy boards; second, federal regulation of drug development, safety, and patient care by the Food and Drug Administration; third the overlapping regulation of controlled substances by the federal government through the Drug Enforcement Administration and state agencies tasked with similar responsibilities; and finally professional liability, or malpractice, in the courts. Taken together, the subject matter provides a basic description of laws that impact pharmacy practice.
Preconditioning Programs in the U.S.

Preconditioning is far from static in the United States. After 23 years of working with the concept, there are still more questions than answers. Preconditioning is a theoretically sound concept. Testimonials of the benefits abound, especially in the Northern Great Plains and in the Southeast. Nevertheless, many of the claims for preconditioning are not substantiated by controlled research data.
Immunotherapy for Non-melanoma Skin Cancer.

Purpose of review The therapeutic landscape for non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) has recently expanded with the development of effective and targeted immunotherapy. Here, we provide an overview of the role of immunotherapy in the management of advanced cutaneous carcinomas. Recent findings Several agents were recently U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved for the treatment of locally advanced and metastatic cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, Merkel cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma. However, recent approvals in tissue-agnostic indications may also benefit other NMSCs including cutaneous adnexal solid tumors with high tumor mutation burdens or microsatellite instability. Furthermore, while FDA-approved indications will likely continue to expand, continued studies are needed to support the role of immunotherapy in the neoadjuvant, adjuvant, and refractory settings. Immunotherapy is emerging as the standard of care for several advanced NMSCs not amenable to surgery and radiation. Ongoing evaluation of the clinical trial landscape is needed to optimize enrollment and ensure continued innovation.
Adrenal Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy in the Management of Oligometastatic Lung Cancer: Patient Selection Matters.

Purpose/Objective(s) Adrenal metastases are commonly identified in the context of primary lung cancer. Recent literature has shown stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) to improve progression free survival (PFS) in the setting of oligometastatic disease. Multiple studies have shown the efficacy and safety of adrenal SBRT. However, patient selection criteria are not well defined. We investigated the various patient selection criteria for adrenal SBRT and their associations with PFS. Materials/Methods We examined a cohort of patients with stage IV oligometastatic primary lung cancer with adrenal metastases who were consecutively treated with 5-fraction SBRT (n = 19). Multiple characteristics were selected for examination prior to data collection and PFS calculation. We considered 1) age 2) performance status 3) size greater than 4cm 4) presence of other metastases at adrenal metastasis diagnosis 5) presence of brain metastases at adrenal metastasis diagnosis 6) time to adrenal metastasis progression from primary diagnoses. Results Eighteen patients completed their treatments of 5-fraction adrenal SBRT with a median dose of 4500 cGy (range from 3500 cGy to 500 cGy). One patient had a course of SBRT to each adrenal gland. Completion rate was 100% and there was no grade two or higher acute toxicities. Small bowel 0.03cc max dose ranged from 230 cGy to 3410 cGy with a median dose of 2350 cGy. Median PFS was 4.7 months. PFS was the same for patients with and without brain metastases at adrenal progression (P = 0.133). There were also no significant differences found in PFS when observing patients with adrenal progression within one year and greater than one year of initial diagnosis (P = 0.474). Similarly, PFS did not change when comparing patients with adrenal lesions greater than 4cm to patients with adrenal lesion less than or equal to 4cm (P = 0.477). PFS trended towards significance for patients older than 70 compared to patients who were 70 or younger (6.6 months vs 12.4 months, P = 0.09). Additionally, PFS was significant for patients with ECOG 2 or higher compared to patients with ECOG less than 2 (1.4 months vs 11.5 months, P = 0.027). Patients without additional metastatic disease at the time of progression had better PFS than patients with additional metastatic disease (18 months vs 7 months, P = 0.016). Conclusion Patients with an ECOG score of 0 or 1 who did not have additional metastases at the time of adrenal metastasis exhibited a higher progression free survival rate after adrenal SBRT. Despite the small sample size, this study showed that appropriate patient selection for adrenal SBRT can lead to good long-term progression free survival with very minimal toxicity if any.
Citizen science online gaming: Work or play?" or "Some of the values in the design of web-based citizen science games: The case of Phylo

This paper concerns citizen science. It investigates some of the values built into the design of web-based citizen science games, with a focus on a game called Phylo. Using methods from science communication studies and the interdisciplinary field of science and technology studies (STS), the paper offers a close reading and content analysis of a peer-reviewed scientific article written by Phylo’s creators. The article is entitled “Phylo: A Citizen Science Approach for Improving Multiple Sequence Alignment” (2012). In the article, the creators of Phylo explain how the game allows citizen scientists to assist with research in evolutionary biology under the guise of solving puzzles. Results of the content analysis suggest that Phylo’s creators have a negative view of wider gaming culture. The results also suggest that Phylo players are conceptualized as human resources. These findings will contribute to knowledge about citizen science game development. Understanding how the creators of citizen science games view gaming and gamers can help us understand the conceptual limits that exist for improving upon such games. This paper shows that some citizen science game developers view citizen science as a work formation.