cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Thymoquinone and cisplatin as a therapeutic combination in lung cancer: In vitro and in vivo.

Thymoquinone (TQ) is a compound extracted from Black Caraway seeds of Nigella Sativa and is active against various cancers. Cisplatin (CDDP) is the most active chemotherapeutic agent in Lung Cancer. Here we report activity of TQ against non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC) cell lines alone and in combination with Cisplatin (CDDP). For proliferation MTT assay, cell viability trypan blue assay and for apoptosis Annexin-V FITC assay were used in NCI-H460 and NCI-H146 cell lines. Inhibition of invasion by TQ was assessed using Matrigel assay and its affect on release of various cytokines was determined using RayBio Human Cytokine detection kit. Mouse xenograft model using NCI-H460 was used to determine in vivo activity of TQ and CDDP. Inhibition of LPS induced NF-κB expression by TQ was determined using transgenic mice expressing a luciferase reporter. TQ was able to inhibit cell proliferation, reduce cell viability and induce apoptosis. TQ at 100 μM and CDDP at 5 μM inhibited cell proliferation by nearly 90% and the combination showed synergism. TQ was able to induced apoptosis in both NCI-H460 and NCI-H146 cell lines. TQ also appears to affect the extracellular environment inhibiting invasion and reducing the production of two cytokines ENA-78 and Gro-alpha which are involved in neo-angiogenesis. Using a mouse xenograft model we were able to demonstrate that combination of TQ and CDDP was well tolerated and significantly reduced tumor volume and tumor weight without additional toxicity to the mice. In the combination arms (TQ5 mg/kg/Cis 2.5 mg/kg) tumor volume was reduced by 59% and (TQ20 mg/kg/Cis 2.5 mg/kg) by 79% as compared to control which is consistent with in vitro data. TQ down regulated NF-κB expression which may explain its various cellular activities and this activity may prove useful in overcoming CDDP resistance from over expression of NF-κB. Thus TQ and CDDP appear to be an active therapeutic combination in lung cancer.
The structures that underlie normal reproductive function

The mechanisms and physiology of reproductive function have fascinated scientists throughout time. Recent cellular and molecular level structural studies have provided unprecedented insights into reproductive systems and signaling networks. This ‘cutting edge’ editorial provides a recent example in each of these areas, namely, the anatomical integrity of the follicle, the molecular structure of activin with its binding partners and the molecular regulation of inhibin. These three examples of structure informing function help explain reproductive health and may provide solutions to reproductive disease.
Circular dichroism studies of diethyl pyrocarbonate-modified histidine in hen egg white lysozyme.

The single histidine residue (His-15) in hen egg white lysozyme (EC 3.2.1.17) was chemically modified by diethyl pyrocarbonate (DEPC) to form exclusively the mono-N-carbethoxyimidazole adduct (second order rate constant of 252 +/- 16 M-1 min-1). Irreversible biscarbethoxylation of the His-15 imidazole ring by DEPC was observed when lysozyme was pretreated with 2-mercaptoethanol (2-ME), 2-ME plus 8 M urea, or 2-ME plus 1% (w/v) sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). Circular dichroism difference spectra were measured for the mono-N-carbethoxyimidazole derivatives of lysozyme, N alpha-acetyl-L-histidine, angiotensin-II, and O-carbethoxy-N alpha-acetyl-L-tyrosine. The circular dichroism difference spectrum for mono-N-carbethoxy lysozyme had one main band (delta [theta]244 nm = +17,000 degree. cm2.dmol-1) in the 240-260 nm region. Denaturing mono-N-carbethoxy lysozyme with 2-ME and 8 M urea (55 degrees C) or 1% SDS (100 degrees C) essentially abolished its circular dichroism difference spectrum in the 240-260 nm region without any decarbethoxylation. In this same region the circular dichroism difference spectra of DEPC-modified N alpha-acetyl-L-histidine and DEPC-modified angiotensin-II had two much weaker bands (delta [theta]233 nm = +1000 degree.cm2.dmol-1 and delta[theta]252nm = -600 degree.cm2.dmol-1 for N alpha-acetyl-L-histidine). This study reports the first characterization of circular dichroism associated with mono-N-carbethoxyhistidine in an enzyme (lysozyme), a peptide (angiotensin-II), and a model compound (N alpha-acetyl-L-histidine).
Gravity wave forcing in the middle atmosphere due to reduced ozone heating during a solar eclipse

We present an analysis of the gravity wave structure and the associated forcing of the middle atmosphere induced by the screening of the ozone layer from solar heating during a solar eclipse. Fourier integral techniques and numerical evaluation of the integral solutions were used to assess the wave field structure and to compute the gravity wave forcing of the atmosphere at greater heights. Our solutions reveal dominant periods of a few hours, characteristic horizontal and vertical scales of about 5000 to 10,000 km and 200 km, respectively, and an integrated momentum flux in the direction of eclipse motion of about 5.6 x 10 exp 8 N at each height above the forcing level. These results suggest that responses to solar eclipses may be difficult to detect above background gravity wave and tidal fluctuations until well into the thermosphere. Conversely, the induced body forces may penetrate to considerable heights because of the large wave scales and will have significant effects at levels where the wave field is dissipated.
REQUIREMENTS FOR PLANNING‐RELEVANT GIS: A SPATIAL PERSPECTIVE

For a variety of practical, technical, and theoretical reasons, geographic information system (GIS) capabilities are not yet fully attuned to the information needs of planning. This paper focuses on one of the more theoretical sources of existing discrepancies: the differing underlying representation of space in GIS on the one hand, and in much of planning on the other. Indeed, geographic information systems embody an absolute, "container" view of space, whereas the higher-level functions of planning, along with most of regional science and human geography, treat space as "relational." It is suggested that the absolute-relative polarization could be theoretically resolved, and GIS be made more relevant for strategic planning, through the operationalization of an intermediate conception of space as "proximal."
The Impact of Vitamin D on Asthmatic Human Airway Smooth Muscle

Asthma is a chronic heterogeneous disorder, which involves airway inflammation, airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) and airway remodeling. The airway smooth muscle (ASM) bundle regulates the broncho-motor tone and plays a critical role in AHR as well as orchestrating inflammation. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to increased severity and exacerbations of symptoms in asthmatic patients. It has been shown to modulate both immune and structural cells, including ASM cells, in inflammatory diseases. Given that current asthma therapies have not been successful in reversing airway remodeling, vitamin D supplementation as a potential therapeutic option has gained a great deal of attention. Here, we highlight the potential immunomodulatory properties of vitamin D in regulating ASM function and airway inflammation in bronchial asthma.
Norovirus in symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals: cytokines and viral shedding.

Noroviruses (NoV) are the most common cause of epidemic gastroenteritis world-wide. NoV infections are often asymptomatic, although individuals still shed large amounts of NoV in their stool. Understanding the differences between asymptomatic and symptomatic individuals would help in elucidating mechanisms of NoV pathogenesis. Our goal was to compare the serum cytokine responses and faecal viral RNA titres of asymptomatic and symptomatic NoV-infected individuals. We tested serum samples from infected subjects (n = 26; 19 symptomatic, seven asymptomatic) from two human challenge studies of GI.1 NoV for 16 cytokines. Samples from prechallenge and days 1-4 post-challenge were tested for these cytokines. Cytokine levels were compared to stool NoV RNA titres quantified previously by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). While both symptomatic and asymptomatic groups had similar patterns of cytokine responses, the symptomatic group generally exhibited a greater elevation of T helper type 1 (Th1) and Th2 cytokines and IL-8 post-challenge compared to the asymptomatic group (all P < 0·01). Daily viral RNA titre was associated positively with daily IL-6 concentration and negatively with daily IL-12p40 concentration (all P < 0·05). Symptoms were not associated significantly with daily viral RNA titre, duration of viral shedding or cumulative shedding. Symptomatic individuals, compared to asymptomatic, have greater immune system activation, as measured by serum cytokines, but they do not have greater viral burden, as measured by titre and shedding, suggesting that symptoms may be immune-mediated in NoV infection.
Optical Magnetic Dipole Interactions for Dielectric Metamaterials

An intense magneto-optic effect, magnetic dipole radiation, is predicted and observed in a dielectric liquid. The results suggest magnetic resonant response at optical frequencies can be obtained leading to the development of unstructured metamaterials.
Partitioning, Aqueous Solubility, and Dipole Moment Data for cis- and trans-(4-Methylcyclohexyl)methanol, Principal Contaminants of the West Virginia Chemical Spill

In 2014, the U.S. National Response Center recorded more than 30000 incidents of oil spills, chemical releases, or maritime security issues, including crude (4-methylcyclohexyl)methanol (MCHM) that contaminated river and drinking water in West Virginia. This research yielded physicochemical partitioning data for the two major compounds released in West Virginia, cis- and trans-(4-methylcyclohexyl)methanol. Octanol–water partition coefficients (KOW) were 225 for cis-4-MCHM and 291 for trans-4-MCHM. The aqueous solubility for total 4-MCHM was 2250 mg/L at 23 °C; solubilities of individual isomers were dependent on their mole fractions. The cis isomer was more soluble and less well sorbed to activated carbon than the trans isomer, consistent with its lower KOW. The partition behavior is supported by a larger computed solvated dipole moment for the cis form than for the trans form at the MP2 aug-cc-pwCVDZ SMD level of theory. Different partition properties would result in the differential fate and transport o...
The Influence of Lipid Bilayer Physicochemical Properties on Gramicidin A Conformer Preferences

The conformational preferences adopted by gramicidin A (GA) dimers inserted into phospholipid bilayers are reported as a function of the bilayer cholesterol content, temperature, and incubation time. Through use of vesicle capture-freeze drying methodology, GA dimers were captured in lipid bilayers and the conformational preferences of the complex were analyzed using ion mobility-mass spectrometry. Perturbations that affect the physicochemical interactions in the lipid bilayer such as cholesterol incorporation, temperature, and incubation time directly alter the conformer preferences of the complex. Regardless of bilayer cholesterol concentration, the antiparallel double helix (ADH) conformation was observed to be most abundant for GA dimers in bilayers composed of lipids with 12 to 22 carbon acyl chains. Incorporation of cholesterol into lipid bilayers yields increased bilayer thickness and rigidity, and an increased abundance of parallel double helix (PDH) and single-stranded head-to-head (SSHH) dimers were observed. Bilayers prepared using 1,2-dilauroyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine, a lipid with 12 carbon acyl chains, yielded a nascent conformer that decreased in abundance as a function of bilayer cholesterol content. High resolution ion mobility-mass spectrometry data revealed two peaks in the ADH region suggesting that ADH populations are composed of two distinct conformers. The conformer preferences of GA dimers from 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine bilayers were significantly different for samples incubated at 4°C vs. 60°C; increased cholesterol content yielded more PDH and SSHH at 60°C. The addition of cholesterol as well as incubating samples of 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine at 60°C for 24-72 h yielded an increase in PDH and SSHH abundance.
Effects of angiotensin II and vasopressin on intracellular pH of glomerular mesangial cells

We investigated changes in intracellular pH (pHi) of cultured rat glomerular mesangial cells (MCs) exposed to angiotensin II (ANG II) and arginine vasopressin (AVP). pHi of quiescent MCs, passage 2-5, and grown on glass cover slips, was assessed by spectrofluorometry using the pH-sensitive dye, 2,7-biscarboxyethyl-5(6)-carboxyfluorescein (BCECF). The steady-state pHi of MCs in a pH 7.4, HCO3-free N-2-hydroxyethylpiperazine-N'-2-ethanesulfonic acid (HEPES)-buffered solution was 7.10 +/- 0.02 (n = 68) and in a pH 7.4, HCO3-containing solution, was 7.23 +/- 0.03 (n = 47) (P less than 0.01). The pHi recovery following an NH+4-induced acid load was inhibited by removal of Na+ from the bath or by addition of the amiloride analogue, ethyl isopropyl amiloride (EIPA). These effects were observed in MCs bathed in HEPES- or in HCO3-buffered solutions, consistent with the action of a Na+-H+ exchanger. When cells were bathed in HEPES, a 10-min exposure to ANG II or AVP (10(-10) to 10(-6) M) caused early and transient acidification of MCs (maximal pH change was -0.10), followed by gradual alkalinization (maximal pHi change +0.15 above the initial value). The increase of pHi was dependent on the presence of Na+ in the bath and was inhibited by EIPA. In the presence of HCO3, ANG II or AVP induced merely a small gradual acidification of MCs (pHi change -0.05). These findings demonstrate that MCs utilize a Na+-H+ exchanger for acid extrusion.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
The Evolution of Brachiopoda

Brachiopods are (perhaps all too) familiar to any geology student who has taken an invertebrate paleontology course; they may well be less familiar to biology students. Even though brachiopods are among the most significant components of the marine fossil record by virtue of their considerable diversity, abundance, and long evolutionary history, fewer than 500 species are extant. Reconciling the geological and biological perspectives is necessary in order to test hypotheses, not only about phylogenetic relationships among brachiopods but also about their spectacular decline in diversity in the end-Permian mass extinction, which permanently reset their evolutionary trajectory. Studying brachiopod ontogeny and development, population genetics, ecology, physiology, and biogeography, as well as molecular systematics and phylogenomics, enables us to better understand the context of evolutionary processes over the short term. Investigating brachiopod morphological, taxonomic, and stratigraphic records over the Phanerozoic Eon reveals historical patterns of long-term macroevolutionary change, patterns that are simply unknowable from a biological perspective alone.
Liberation and Utopia

As the possibilities for radical social change dramatically accelerated in the 1960s, Marcuse began renewed reflection on liberation and revolution which he concluded required utopian concepts of an alternative society and a new concept of socialism. He constantly argued that since the problems in the existing society could not be solved by piecemeal reform, a new society is needed to provide maximum human freedom and well-being.1 He remained an intransigent revolutionist who believed that it was necessary to have in view the goals of liberation to produce political theory and action which would not simply reproduce the oppressive features of the existing society. Since ‘the whole is not true’, a radically new social order is necessary to provide liberated human beings with a good life.2 Although Marcuse came to appreciate the benefits of more gradual social change, he maintained constantly that the changes and reforms should strive for human liberation and social revolution if they are not to be merely cosmetic improvements of the existing society. In this sense, whatever political positions Marcuse may have defended at a given time and place, the goal of a new society and liberated humanity remained central to his thought.
THE FIRST CHARACTERISTICS OF SOCIAL LIFE

This chapter discusses the first characteristics of social life. The first social relationships a child experiences are those with father, mother, and siblings. The child's position to father and mother becomes one of the most determining factors in his later life. Children between the ages of 3–5 years, girls as well as boys, have a closer relationship to their mother. To the child, the father is a stranger whose sudden appearance interrupts the close child-mother relationship. The main factor in the development of the child's social relationships, starting in the family, is his formation of an ideal. The mother can become the symbol of goodness and beauty, and the father the symbol of wisdom and force. The child's play sometimes reveals that one parent is much more important to the child. The aggression of the preschool child is especially strong against a newborn sibling. The newborn appears as an intruder, depriving the child of his exclusive position in the family composition as the single child.
A study of meshed patch reflectarray unit cell

Meshed patch antenna unit cells of reflectarray, with reasonable optical transparencies are studied. Being transparent, the reflectrarry is expected to facilitate direct integration on solar cells of small satellites. Design parameters, trade-offs between the antenna properties and the transparency, and two different of lattice sizes are presented.
Gender Analysis of Accessiblity to Farm Resources among Small Scale Farmers in Lafia Area of Nasarawa State of Nigeria

This study focusedongenderaccessibility to farmproductionresourcesandthe extent of women involvement in farm-decision making among farm households. Sixty (60) farm households were selected using double stage random sampling techniques. A pair of male and female was selected from each household giving a total of 120 respondents. Primary data were collected through the use ofinterview schedule administered with the help of extension agents of the Nasarawa Agricultural Development Programme (NADP). Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics and linear regression model. It was observed that women had less access to farm resources (37.5%) and lower rate of involvement in farm decisions (43.8%). Socio economic factors such as education, farm size, participation in extension services, membership of cooperatives and income level were significant factors influencing accessibility of farm resources. There should be improved gender sensitization among farm households so as to give womenequalrightandparticipationin farmproduction
Fifteen Years after the Bellingham ISSRM: An Empirical Evaluation of Frederick Buttel's Differentiating Criteria for Environmental and Resource Sociology

The sociology of natural resources and the environment constitutes a major field of inquiry in the research on human–environmental interactions. A constructive debate and dialogue on the relationships between environmental sociology (ES) and the sociology of natural resources (SNR) began at the 2000 International Symposium on Society and Resource Management (ISSRM) in Bellingham, Washington. Frederick Buttel argued that the two subdisciplines had different subject matters, levels of analysis, spatial focuses, theoretical orientations, policy relevance, and interdisciplinary commitments. These distinctive tendencies have been widely accepted in environmental and natural resource social science but have not been systematically analyzed. The primary objective of this research is to conduct an empirical test of Buttel's differentiating criteria through a systematic review of sample American sociological journal articles published in 2000 and 2014. The multivalue qualitative comparative analysis revealed that there was no clear-cut divide between the two subfields regarding the combinations of empirical research characteristics, while the general tendencies within both of them became more diverse over time. The overall lack of empirical research evidence for rigid ES–SNR distinctions also indicates that there is more potential than typically realized to build an integrative environmental and resource sociology in the American context and beyond.
Housing Assistance Programs and Adult Health in the United States

Objectives. To examine whether access to housing assistance is associated with better health among low-income adults.Methods. We used National Health Interview Survey data (1999–2012) linked to US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) administrative records (1999–2014) to examine differences in reported fair or poor health and psychological distress. We used multivariable models to compare those currently receiving HUD housing assistance (public housing, housing choice vouchers, and multifamily housing) with those who will receive housing assistance within 2 years (the average duration of HUD waitlists) to account for selection into HUD assistance.Results. We found reduced odds of fair or poor health for current public housing (odds ratio [OR] = 0.77; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.57, 0.97) and multifamily housing (OR = 0.75; 95% CI = 0.60, 0.95) residents compared with future residents. Public housing residents also had reduced odds of psychological distress (OR = 0.59; 95% CI = 0.40, 0.86...
Mind the Gap: Why Do Experts Have Differences of Opinion Regarding the Sufficiency of Audit Evidence Supporting Complex Fair Value Measurements?

Auditing fair value measurements and other complex accounting estimates (hereafter, FVMs) is a challenging area for auditors, as evidenced by repeated deficiencies reported in the PCAOB inspection reports across several years. Audit firms have publicly disagreed with some post-audit inspection reports of FVMs audit deficiencies. Regulators and PCAOB inspectors contend that the inspection findings are due to deficient auditor performance resulting in auditors obtaining insufficient evidence. Auditors’ responses to inspection findings suggest that they believe that they have complied with auditing standards and gathered sufficient evidence. Academic research to date has focused on auditors’ deficient performance as a cause of the reported deficiencies and evidence suggests deficient performance does contribute to the level of reported deficiencies. However, the fact that reported deficiencies continue to persist despite audit firms’ and regulators’ significant efforts to improve auditor performance suggests that a potential gap exists between what auditors and inspectors regard as sufficient appropriate audit evidence (hereafter, FVMs gap). Research on expertise has found that when experts are confronted with uncertain and complex tasks, disagreements among experts (e.g., inspectors and auditors) are rather common. This study investigates whether there are other factors, in addition to deficient auditor performance, contributing to the FVMs gap. We find evidence that the auditability of estimates with extreme measurement uncertainty and aspects of the current regulatory inspection process may be contributing to the gap. We also report ways that the FVMs gap may be reduced. Our findings are especially relevant in light of the PCAOB’s recent initiative to revise auditing standards related to FVMs and in its ongoing efforts to identify causes of reported deficiencies in its inspection findings.
Mindfulness Practices in Mentoring and Teaching

Mentoring, including peer mentoring, is a key element of teacher education programs and subsequent teaching practice. In order to share the benefits of mindfulness practices, a faculty member in a state university in the Midwestern United States promoted the practice of mindfulness by teacher candidates enrolled in her courses. As members of a learning community, teacher candidates are encouraged to engage in and reflect upon mindfulness practices during their junior- and senior-level courses, and in feedback-reflection sessions for clinical-field experiences and professional internships. The intention is to promote the transformation of teacher candidates in prekindergarten through grade 3 (P-3) programs, through peer mentoring and mindful engagement. Examples of activities are presented, and findings from a peer-mentoring study promoting mindfulness are shared.
Effect of annealing temperature on local distortion of La 0.67 Ca 0.33 MnO 3 thin films

Mn $K$-edge fluorescence data are presented for thin film samples (3000~A) of Colossal Magnetoresistive (CMR) La$_{0.67}$Ca$_{0.33}$MnO$_3$: as-deposited, and post-annealed at 1000 K and 1200 K. The local distortion is analyzed in terms of three contributions: static, phonon, and an extra, temperature-dependent, polaron term. The polaron distortion is very small for the as-deposited sample and increases with the annealing temperature. In contrast, the static distortion in the samples decreases with the annealing temperature. Although the local structure of the as-deposited sample shows very little temperature dependence, the change in resistivity with temperature is the largest of these three thin film samples. The as-deposited sample also has the highest magnetoresistance (MR), which indicates some other mechanism may also contribute to the transport properties of CMR samples. We also discuss the relationship between local distortion and the magnetization of the sample.
Neurological Evaluation in the Elderly

Various expressions of neurological impairment usually have a direct relationship to advancing age. If one has the good fortune to defer systemic illness, there usually is, to a varying degree, an inexorable decline in coordination, motor function, and intellectual prowess with advancing years. Advanced dementia, parkinsonism, and disorders of praxis are easily recognizable by non-neurologists. More subtle declines in function, such as benign forgetfulness, minor alterations in tone and balance, and early parkinsonism often require the assistance of a neurologist for further definition (Kral, 1962). This chapter demonstrates how the standard neurologic examination may be applied to patients of advanced years and how it may assist the examiner in the differential diagnosis of neurological conditions common to the elderly (Wolfson & Katzman, 1983).
Regulation of the Cell Cycle by the Rb Tumor Suppressor Family

The rare childhood cancer retinoblastoma is caused, at least in part, by inactivating mutations in the retinoblastoma gene. The study of the retinoblastoma protein (Rb) over the past decade has led to a significant advance in our molecular understanding of many forms of cancer which take the lives of thousands of people (of all ages) every year. Deregulated cell proliferation is a common feature of many cancers. Rb, though not essential for cell proliferation, plays a significant role in regulating cell cycle progression and perturbation of Rb, or its upstream regulators appear to have an important role in the development of the majority of human solid tumors. This review will describe how Rb and two of its relatives, p107 and p130, are thought to regulate cell proliferation and differentiation, and what is known about how loss of Rb function might contribute to tumor formation.
Improving Indoor Air Quality through the Use of Ultraviolet Technology in Commercial Buildings

Abstract There are nearly 6 million commercial buildings in the United States. People working in those buildings can fall victim to allergies, sick building syndrome, or building related illnesses caused by poor indoor air quality. Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) in a building's HVAC system is one approach to improving air quality and reducing the health risks of its occupants. When considering the HVAC design of a building, the owner has to take into consideration many factors and the facility's intended use and budget are two major factors. The owner's analysis should consider life cycle costs and the potential impact of design solutions on the future occupants. Indoor air quality can have a significant impact on productivity, absenteeism, and perhaps insurance premiums. UVGI may or may not be a feasible or proper solution for every case, however, the pros and cons of the UVGI technology should be weighed and examined more carefully as a viable solution. The goal of this paper was to review information as it related to positive and negative aspects of the UVGI technology. Areas analyzed included the ability of the UV systems to improve indoor air quality, ozone generation, and economics.
“Can We Get the Catholic Vote?” the Effects of Catholic Running Mates in Presidential Elections

Ted G. Jelen examines the historical record and finds little evidence that a Catholic on the ticket delivers enough Catholic votes to make any difference. Indeed, the latest example is 2016 with vice presidential nominee Tim Kaine (VA) apparently unable to help the Democratic national ticket with Catholic voters. Indeed, Catholic vice presidential nominees on losing tickets occurred in 1964, 1968, 1972, and 1984. The counter-examples are 2008 and 2012, with the Catholic Joe Biden as the vice presidential nominee in winning campaigns. Little evidence exists that Catholic identity had much or anything to do with these vice presidential selections, or that it had any major impact on voting by Catholics. At most, the data show that having a Catholic on the Democratic ticket somewhat reduces the propensity of Catholics to vote Republican.
Assessing Adult Health Literacy in Urban Healthcare Settings

Objective To determine if health literacy is lower among those using the emergency department as compared to those using community health clinics. A comparison was done of the health literacy level of patients at a level-I adult and pediatric emergency department and 3 community health clinics. The second purpose of the study was to identify and assess predictors of low or adequate health literacy in order to better accommodate the communication needs of these patients. Methods The study used a convenience, cross-sectional design. The settings for the study were varied. The emergency department was a level-I inner-city pediatric and adult trauma center with 45,000 annual visits. The 3 outpatient clinics were all members of a 44-clinic network of private, community health centers that serve 175,000 underserved patients annually. overall, 536 patients were approached to complete an in-person survey that included a 15-item written questionnaire and the Short Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults (S-ToFHLA), a English- and Spanish-validated health literacy measure. Based on language spoken with healthcare providers, patients were given either the Spanish or English S-ToFHLA. Results The refusal rate was 25.7%, with 536 patients approached and 398 completing the survey. Three of the four sites had a refusal rate of 8% per site. The fourth site had a higher refusal rate at 38%. Overall, 20% of subjects had marginal or inadequate functional health literacy. There was a significant difference at p=18.42, df=3, p=0.001 among sites. Three of the sites had ≥ 78% of the participants scoring at the adequate level. The fourth site, however, only had 66% who scored at the adequate level, with 34% of the scores in the inadequate functioning level as compared with 14% for the emergency department and its adjacent clinic and 3% for the clinic located at the city’s edge. Using logistical regression, there was an association between literacy level and education (t=2.653, sig 0.008) and age (t=-6.451, sig 0.001). Conclusion Less-than-adequate functional health literacy was seen at 20% of all sites. The location of healthcare access was not as predictive of low functional health literacy as were demographic indicators, such as age and education levels.
CLINICAL IMPACT OF IN-HOSPITAL CONDUCTION BLOCKS IN PATIENTS UNDERGOING TRANS-CATHETER AORTIC VALVE REPLACEMENT: ANALYSIS FROM NATIONWIDE INPATIENT SAMPLE DATABASE (NIS)

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has revolutionized the outcomes in patients with high & intermediate surgical risk cases with severe aortic stenosis. Conduction disturbances especially left bundle branch block(LBBB), right bundle branch block(RBBB) and complete heart block(CHB) are the
Dynamic Optical Fringe Suppression for Silicon Photonic Sensors

We present a new fringe mitigation method based on Fourier decomposition of background optical fringe patterns. Application to a silicon photonic on-chip sensor show order of magnitude improved concentration retrieval stability.
Evidence for Molecular Coding of Neural Information

The essential significance of the chemical transfer of learning experiments is that they provide bioassay methods for the isolation of behavior-inducing substances. The results obtained by these methods have provided evidence for a molecular code of neural information. Once the specific behavior-inducing substances are chemically defined they can be further investigated by appropriate microanalytical techniques. It is hoped that this general approach will allow within the next few years the identification of several information-carrying molecules and thus open the way to a systematic study of the molecular code.
Pediatric Bone Histomorphometry

Publisher Summary This chapter summarizes the methodology of bone histomorphometry and highlights the tissue-level characteristics of normal and abnormal bone development. Bone histomorphometry is a key tool for studying bone tissue. Both the activity of bone metabolism and the amount and distribution of bone tissue are analyzed with unsurpassed resolution. Between birth and adulthood, bones undergo considerable increases in size. The most frequently assessed aspect of this process is longitudinal bone growth, as reflected by body height. The increase in bone length is mostly due a mechanism called endochondral ossification. The primary effector cells of this process are growth plate chondrocytes. These cells continuously divide and synthesize a cartilaginous matrix, which, in a stepwise process, is subsequently converted into osseous tissue. Bone histomorphometry mostly provides information on two other aspects of bone development, bone remodeling, and bone modeling. A process named remodeling renews bone created by endochondral ossification. Remodeling consists of successive cycles of bone resorption and formation on the same bone surface. The basic features of this process are identical for trabecular and cortical bone.
The Influence of Erik Erikson on Positive Psychology Theory and Research

Highlighting major themes and concepts from Erik Erikson’s (Erikson, Identity and the Life Cycle, 1959) psychosocial theory of personality development, this chapter will explore the influence of his theories and research on key concepts in the discipline of positive psychology (PP). Using the three pillars of PP (Seligman and Csikszentmihalyi, American Psychologist 55:5–14, 2000): character strengths/virtues, subjective experiences, and positive institutions as a framework, the authors will discuss core PP concepts in the context of normative development through his major contributions to the field (Young Man Luther; Insight and Responsibility; Identity: Youth and Crisis; Gandhi’s Truth). Highlighting the role of developmental stress in facilitating growth and building character strengths (what Erikson termed “basic strengths”), this chapter will explore the role of positive institutions in nurturing the development of these strengths and unique contributions of Erikson’s work in advancing PP. This chapter will also address the relative lack of awareness and attention to Erikson’s influence within the field and highlight how PP can draw on the themes found throughout his work to improve theory and research with diverse populations.
MASTER'S LEVEL TRAINING IN INDUSTRIAL/ORGANIZATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY: DOES IT MEET THE SIOP GUIDELINES?

In order to assess the extent to which terminal master's level I/O programs were consistent with Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP) guidelines, recent graduates of master's level I/O and related programs were surveyed. The survey focused on the competency areas emphasized in the SIOP (1994) guidelines: data collection and analysis competencies, core I/O competencies, and additional I/O competencies. Participants in the survey provided their perceptions of the coverage of the various competencies in graduate school as well as the importance of these competencies in their current jobs. The results of the survey show that current master's level programs are generally consistent with the guidelines. Both data collection/data analysis competencies and core I/O competencies were perceived as having been well covered. Further, these same competencies were for the most part seen as important in the participants' current jobs.
Confronting the Nonmedical Costs of Childhood Hospitalizations

Illness is costly in general, and hospitalization is especially so. In the current issue of Pediatrics , Chang et al1 have added an important contribution to our understanding of exactly how costly hospitalization for children can be by focusing their attention not on the direct medical costs to families of the hospitalization itself but on the indirect out-of-pocket expenditures that are associated with lost earnings, transportation to and from the hospital, meals, and child care. Using data from a prospective randomized trial that was conducted at the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center from February 2015 to April 2016, the authors analyzed data from interviews with the families of 1372 children with a mean hospital stay of 3.1 days to calculate the lost earnings and accrued costs of parking, travel, meals, child care, and other expenses that were summarized as the total cost burden of the hospitalization. They also translated these expenditures into the percent of daily household income that was represented. The authors found the median total cost burden to be $112.80 and the median daily cost burden (as a percentage of income) to be 45%. These averages, as the authors rightly point out, vary considerably with the parents’ educational level, income, and whether they report significant financial hardship. The estimates represent a lower bound for … Address correspondence to Andrew D. Racine, MD, PhD, Montefiore Health System, 111 E. 210th St, Bronx, NY 10467. E-mail: aracine{at}montefiore.org
Repurposing citizen science games as software tools for professional scientists

Scientific software is often developed with professional scientists in mind, resulting in complex tools with a steep learning curve. Citizen science games, however, are designed for citizen scientists---members of the general public. These games maintain scientific accuracy while placing design goals such as usability and enjoyment at the forefront. In this paper, we identify an emerging use of game-based technology, in the repurposing of citizen science games to be software tools for professional scientists in their work. We discuss our experience in two such repurposings: Foldit, a protein folding and design game, and Eyewire, a web-based 3D neuron reconstruction game. Based on this experience, we provide evidence that the software artifacts produced for citizen science can be useful for professional scientists, and provide an overview of key design principles we found to be useful in the process of repurposing.
Clinical Features of Neutrophilic Dermatosis Variants Resembling Necrotizing Fasciitis

Importance Pyoderma gangrenosum and necrotizing Sweet syndrome are diagnostically challenging variants of neutrophilic dermatosis that can clinically mimic the cutaneous and systemic features of necrotizing fasciitis. Improved characterization of these rare variants is needed, as improper diagnosis may lead to inappropriate or delayed treatment and the potential for morbidity. Objective To determine the characteristics of necrotizing neutrophilic dermatosis to improve diagnostic accuracy and distinguish from infection. Design, Setting, and Participants A case series of patients with necrotizing neutrophilic dermatosis treated at 3 academic hospitals (University of California San Francisco, Oregon Health and Science University, and University of Minnesota) from January 1, 2015, to December 31, 2017, was performed along with a literature review of related articles published between January 1, 1980, and December 31, 2017. Data were obtained from medical records as well as Medline and Embase databases. All patients had signs resembling necrotizing infection and had a final diagnosis of pyoderma gangrenosum with systemic features or necrotizing Sweet syndrome. Patients were excluded if a diagnosis other than neutrophilic dermatosis was made, if key clinical information was missing, and if reported in a non-English language. Main Outcomes and Measures Description of key characteristics of necrotizing neutrophilic dermatosis. Results Overall, 54 patients with necrotizing neutrophilic dermatosis were included, of which 40 had pyoderma gangrenosum with systemic features and 14 had necrotizing Sweet syndrome. Of the 54 patients, 29 (54%) were male and 25 (46%) were female, with a mean (SD) age of 51 (19) years. Skin lesions commonly occurred on the lower (19 [35%]) and upper (13 [24%]) extremities and developed after a surgical procedure (22 [41%]) or skin trauma (10 [19%]). Shock was reported in 14 patients (26%), and leukemoid reaction was seen in 15 patients (28%). Of the patients with necrotizing neutrophilic dermatosis, 51 (94%) were initially misdiagnosed as necrotizing fasciitis and subsequently received inappropriate treatment. Debridement was performed in 42 patients (78%), with a mean (SD) of 2 (2 [range, 1-12]) debridements per patient. Four amputations (7%) were performed. Forty-nine patients (91%) received antibiotics when necrotizing neutrophilic dermatosis was misdiagnosed as an infection, and 50 patients (93%) received systemic corticosteroids; all patients responded to immunosuppressants. Conclusions and Relevance A complex spectrum of clinical findings of pyoderma gangrenosum and Sweet syndrome with prominent systemic inflammation exists that defines a new subset of neutrophilic dermatoses, termed necrotizing neutrophilic dermatoses; recognizing the difference between this variant and severe infection may prevent unnecessary surgical procedures and prolonged disease morbidity associated with a misdiagnosis and may expedite appropriate medical management.
Pulse-Train Method to Measure Transient Response of Field-Effect Transistors

A simple method to measure the short time-domain output current of field-effect transistors (FETs) is demonstrated. By applying short gate pulses and measuring average output current, the response to very short pulses can be measured and compared with DC measurements. Applied to several novel III–V FETs, the technique shows clearly that when charge trapping and interface states affect drain currents, the intrinsic performance can be substantially better than the DC measurements indicate.
Familial dysautonomia: A disease with hidden tears (P5.305)

Objective: To determine if administration of a muscarinic agonist can stimulate the secretion of tears in patients with familial dysautonomia (FD). Background: FD is frequently referred to as a disease with no tears, but the underlying reason for this alacrima is unknown. Normally, nerves in the cornea stimulate the production of tears from lacrimal glands in the eye. Whether the absent/reduced tears in FD is due to denervation or an abnormality in the lacrimal glands themselves is unclear. Design/Methods: We applied pilocarpine (4%, a parasympathetic M3 receptor agonist), topically to the eyes of 16 patients with genetically confirmed FD to stimulate the tear secretion directly in the lacrimal glands bypassing the nerve pathways. We assessed corneal sensitivity using a Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometer. Tear volume was estimated with the Schirmer test (a scaled paper strip placed in the lower eyelid and the length of moisture measured after 5 minutes). Schirmer’s test was performed four times: at baseline; 30-minutes after instillation of normal saline (placebo, 2 drops); at 30-minutes; and 3-hours after pilocarpine instillation (2 drops). Results: Basal tear secretion was 6.3 ± 2.6 mm (mean ± SD), and 6.9 ± 3.0 mm 30 min after placebo (p=0.395). Thirty minutes after the instillation of piloparpine, tear volume more than doubled to 19.6 ± 8.3 mm (p 2 =0.74). Conclusions: Patients with FD have functional lacrimal glands, which can be stimulated with an M3 agonist to produce tears. Basal tear secretion was directly related to corneal sensitivity. The findings suggest for the first time that tear production in patients with FD can be restored pharmacologically. Study Supported by: Dysautonomia Foundation, Inc. Disclosure: Dr. Palma has received personal compensation for activities with Lunbeck as a speaker and advisor. Dr. Mendoza-Santiesteban has nothing to disclose. Dr. Norcliffe-Kaufmann has nothing to disclose. Dr. Kaufmann received personal compensation from Lundbeck and Astra Zeneca for his membership on Scientific Advisory Board.. Dr. Kaufmann received personal compensation from Springer for serving as editor in Chief of Clinical Autonomic Research.. Dr. Kaufmann received support for conducting clinical trials of Droxidopa for Chelsea Therapeutics..
Validation of the Yale Food Addiction Scale 2.0 Among a Bariatric Surgery Population

Addictive eating, a highly debated problematic eating behavior, may contribute to obesity and impede the success of individuals seeking bariatric surgery. The original Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS) was validated for use among patients who underwent bariatric surgery; however, the YFAS was revised to reflect changes in substance use criteria in the DSM-5. The purpose of this study was to validate the use of the revised measure, the YFAS 2.0, among patients pursuing bariatric surgery. A retrospective chart review was conducted of 314 patients who underwent pre-surgical psychological evaluation for bariatric surgery. Information gathered included symptoms of addictive eating (YFAS 2.0), emotional eating (Emotional Eating Scale; EES), and a history of substance use and binge eating. In this sample, 27.3% met criteria for “food addiction” according to the YFAS 2.0. Of those, more than half met criteria for severe food addiction. The YFAS 2.0 was related to all factors of the EES: anger/frustration (p < .001); anxiety (p < .001); and depression (p < .001). There was no relationship between the YFAS 2.0 and a history of substance use. The YFAS 2.0 accounted for significant variance in history of binge eating after controlling for emotional eating (p < .001; Exp(B) = 1.30). Results were similar to a prior validation of the YFAS among a bariatric population, and the updated YFAS 2.0 may be useful in assessing addictive eating among bariatric surgery candidates to further explore the concept of “food addiction.”
Tractor beams and related topological tweezers

The theory of photokinetic effects clarifies how a light wave’s phase and amplitude profiles govern the force and torque experienced by illuminated objects. When used to create tractor beams, this framework identifies interesting topological modes of light.