cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract 50: Anchored multiplex PCR for detection of gene rearrangements and mutations using next-generation sequencing.

We describe a rapid targeted RNA-seq library construction method for the detection of gene fusions in cancer using next generation sequencing. The method involves ligation of half-functional sequencing adaptors to double strand cDNA, followed by two successive PCR reactions using hemi-nested gene-specific 3’ primers with the 5’ adaptor primer, and generates libraries ready for bi-directional sequencing. RNA extracted from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded biopsies can be used directly without the need to deplete ribosomal RNA, non-target mRNA or genomic DNA. Importantly, the assay can be performed without the need to know the 5’ partner in a gene fusion event. The method can also be applied to genomic DNA for detection of gene mutations, insertions, deletions and copy number changes. The method is very flexible and can allow multiplexing of over 500 targets. We have designed a lung cancer translocation panel which includes 18 amplicons for detections of gene rearrangements involving ALK, ROS1 and RET. For targeted genomic DNA-seq, we have designed a small 96-amplicon panel including tumor hotspots and entire coding sequences of key tumor suppressor genes TP53 and PTEN, and a 623-amplicon panel for 370 exons of 18 tumor suppressor genes. Unlike conventional PCR-based method, this method generates libraries with random sequencing start sites and allows for direct sequencing without having to spiking in controls (e.g. PhiX) on those platforms where high starting site complexity is required, such as the Illumina Miseq sequencer. The assays generally achieve high on-target specificity (>90%), and are very cost-effective. The targeted RNA-seq assay has detected various gene rearrangements in known FISH-positive cases with previously unknown 5’ partners using our archived samples. The small 96-amplicon genomic DNA assay showed 100% of targeted bases having >100-fold coverage and 99.9% having >500-fold coverage with minimal optimization. In our first attempt of targeting 370 exons (626 amplicons, target size 52.3 kilobases), this assay achieved 97% of targeted bases having >100-fold coverage and 93% having >500-fold using ¼ of a Miseq sequencing run. Citation Format: Zongli Zheng, Boryana Zhelyazkova, Divya Panditi, Hayley Robinson, Jeffrey A. Engelman, John A. Iafrate, Long Le. Anchored multiplex PCR for detection of gene rearrangements and mutations using next-generation sequencing. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 50. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-50
Reply to Bemm et al. and Arakawa: Identifying foreign genes in independent Hypsibius dujardini genome assemblies

Our report (1) describing the discovery of extensive horizontal gene transfer in a tardigrade genome has raised questions from other groups who were sequencing the Hypsibius dujardini genome in parallel or who have done new experiments and analyses since our report (2⇓⇓–5). Bemm et al. (2) now report filtering our data for likely contaminants, resulting in a new, prefiltered genome assembly. Arakawa (3) has sequenced genomes of starved, washed, individual animals that had been treated with antibiotics for 48 h, and used this genomic sequence and RNA-Seq data to identify likely bona fide tardigrade contigs. Two other reports have contributed data and analysis: Delmont and Eren (4) used a newly published analysis and visualization platform, Anvi'o (6), to identify likely contaminants in our genome assembly, and Koutsovoulos et al. (5) applied useful taxon-annotated GC coverage plots (Blobplots) (7) to our data and reported an independent genome assembly.
Future Directions: Alternative Approaches to Traditional Hospital Care—Home Hospital

The acute hospital may be a difficult environment for many older patients and is an expensive site of care for payers. Home hospital is an emerging model of care that allows an older person with acute medical illness to avoid an inpatient hospital admission by bringing the critical elements of hospital care to the home. Challenges associated with the development and study of home hospitals as well as several specific home hospital models are reviewed. The need for continued study and the potential of home hospital are discussed.
Parental Perceptions of the Influence of Digital Media and Technology on Children's Reading Habits at Home

Parental Perceptions of the Influence of Digital Media and Technology on Children’s Reading Habits at Home
Validated progressive damage analysis of simple polymer matrix composite laminates exhibiting matrix microdamage: Comparing macromechanics and micromechanics

Abstract The generalized method of cells micromechanics theory, employing the multi-axial mixed-mode continuum damage mechanics model for the matrix of the composite, is used to predict the evolution of matrix microdamage in un-notched (simple), unidirectional and laminated polymer matrix composites. Matrix microdamage is considered to be the evolution of subscale phenomena (including micro-crack, micro-fissure, micro-void, and shear band growth) that are responsible for all non-linearity in the composite up to the onset of more severe damage mechanisms, such transverse cracking, fiber breakage or delamination. Micromechanics is used to explicitly resolve the constituents of the composite at the microscale (fiber-matrix scale). The micromechanics model is validated against experimental data for numerous different laminate stacking sequences and a previously validated macroscale (e.g, lamina-scale), thermodynamically-based, work potential theory (Schapery theory). The inputs used in the continuum damage model, which was incorporated in the micromechanics theory, were calibrated against the same three experimental stress-strain curves utilized to calculate the inputs for the macroscale model. The agreeable predictions, obtained with the micromechanics model, establishes that both the macro- and micro-models are suitable for progressive damage analysis of laminated composites, considering only matrix microdamage. Moreover, the validated micromechanics theory is utilized to study the effect of fiber volume fraction on the matrix microdamage evolution in the various lay-ups. This demonstrates a key capability of the micromechanics approach that is lacking in the macromechanics method due to the macroscale assumption that the laminae are monolithic, anisotropic materials.
Hardy’s Fictional Process and his Emotional Life

Because a biographer does not work from facts alone, but also from an unavoidably personal response, each tends to see a subject differently. To Robert Gittings1 Hardy had the naive craftiness of the French peasant and a secretive, poetic genius behind which lay a warped sexual identity and a meanness of spirit towards his wives. Michael Millgate’s Hardy2 on the contrary is honest and true, faithful to his obligations, uncomplaining, and discreet rather than secretive.
The Dmax method is a valid procedure to estimate physical working capacity at fatigue threshold.

Introduction The purpose of this study was to determine the validity of the maximal distance-electromyography (Dmax-EMG) method for estimating physical working capacity at fatigue threshold (PWCFT ). Methods Twenty-one men and women (age 22.9 ± 3.0 years) volunteered to perform 12 sessions of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) over 4 weeks. Before and after HIIT training, a graded exercise test (GXT) was used to estimate PWCFT using the Dmax method and the original (ORG) method. Results There was a significant increase in PWCFT for both ORG (+10.6%) and Dmax (+12.1%) methods, but no significant difference in the change values between methods. Further, Bland-Altman analyses resulted in non-significant biases (ORG-Dmax) between methods at pre-HIIT (-6.4 ± 32.5 W; P > 0.05) and post-HIIT (-4.2 ± 33.1 W; P > 0.05). Conclusion The Dmax method is sensitive to training and is a valid method for estimating PWCFT in young men and women. Muscle Nerve 55: 344-349, 2017.
Satb2 Stations Neurons along Reflex Arcs

The nociceptive flexor withdrawal reflex has an august place in the history of neuroscience. In this issue of Neuron, Hilde et al. (2016) advance our understanding of this reflex by characterizing the molecular identity and circuit connectivity of component interneurons. They assess how a DNA-binding factor Satb2 controls cell position, molecular identity, pre-and postsynaptic targeting, and function of a population of inhibitory sensory relay interneurons that serve to integrate both proprioceptive and nociceptive afferent information.
High-resolution analysis of the human gamma-globin gene promoter in K562 erythroleukemia cell chromatin.

We performed high-resolution mapping studies of the DNAse I- hypersensitive sites located just 5′ to the human G gamma- and A gamma- globin genes of K562 erythroleukemia cells, in which these genes are constitutively expressed at low levels. This analysis revealed that the hypersensitive site extends from approximately -210 +/- 5 to -25 +/- 5 base pairs (bp) upstream from the transcription initiation site. Within this region, a GC-rich region located between the proximal CCAAT box and the TATA box is particularly accessible to nuclease digestion; however, the 5′ end of the hypersensitive site is less accessible to nucleases. The pattern of DNAse I cleavage does not change on either strand with hemin induction of K562 cells, which increases the rate of gamma-globin gene transcription about threefold. The region within the hypersensitive site includes all the consensus promoter elements of the gamma-globin genes as well as an octamer sequence located between -182 and -175, and a region associated with a variety of mutations that may cause hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin (HPFH).
Targeting phosphodiesterases in anti-platelet therapy.

There are two primary modes of platelet inhibition: blockade of membrane receptors or neutralization of intracellular pathways. Both means of inhibition have proven benefits in the prevention and resolution of atherothrombotic events. With regard to intracellular inhibition, phosphodiesterases (PDEs) are fundamental for platelet function. Platelets possess several PDEs (PDE2, PDE3 and PDE5) that catalyze the hydrolysis of cyclic adenosine 3′-5′-monophosphate (cAMP) and cyclic guanosine 3′-5′-monophosphate (cGMP), thereby limiting the levels of intracellular nucleotides. PDE inhibitors, such as cilostazol and dipyridamole, dampen platelet function by increasing cAMP and cGMP levels. This review focuses on the roles of PDE inhibitors in modulating platelet function, with particular attention paid to drugs that have anti-platelet clinical indications.
Where are we now: compliance to USP in nuclear medicine.

2628 Objectives USP was published in 2004 and describes quality requirements for preparing sterile drugs, including radiopharmaceuticals. Recently, the 2015 USP Compliance Study reported an 80% overall compliance rate to 797 requirements among hospital pharmacies. The intent of our study was to assess for nuclear medicine department compliance to USP with their own practices, as well as their confidence in practices of any outsourced nuclear pharmacy. Methods An online survey was conducted of nuclear medicine departments throughout the United States. It was completed by a nuclear medicine technologist representing the department. The survey response format was a 5 level Likert scale. It assessed their understanding and confidence in practicing USP requirements pertaining to their own drug preparation practices. The survey also gauged how well the nuclear medicine department understands the practices of their outsourced nuclear pharmacy. Results Of 29 departments invited to participate, 25 responded (response rate= 86%). Sixty percent (15/25) of responders disagreed that their Nuclear Medicine department overall understands how USP applies to Nuclear Medicine practice. Eighty-three percent (14/17) agreed that their Nuclear Medicine department is compliant with USP immediate use provisions. Eighty-one percent (17/21) agreed that their Nuclear Medicine Department understands how USP applies to a unit dose practice. Eighty-six percent (18/21) agreed that their outsourced Nuclear Pharmacy is compliant with USP . Only 25% (5/20) reported having audited, or inspected their outsourced Nuclear Pharmacy. Fifty-two percent (11/21) reported not having enough knowledge to audit the Nuclear Pharmacy for compliance. Sixty-two percent (13/21) agreed that they work closely with another department within their institution (ex. Pharmacy) to assist in USP compliance. Conclusions Overall, the responders did not have a high level confidence in understanding USP requirements. More than half of responders were confident in complying with USP immediate use provisions. Most responders were confident that their outsourced Nuclear Pharmacy is compliant with USP , but a small number reported actually auditing or inspecting the Nuclear Pharmacy. Many of the Nuclear Medicine departments surveyed are not utilizing internal resources, such as their institution’s pharmacy department, to assist with USP compliance. The Nuclear Medicine community could benefit from educational resources on USP . Resources focusing on practices that prepare radiopharmaceuticals in a hot lab setting, without a laminar flow hood or clean room, would be most applicable. Also, resources should be developed that a Nuclear Medicine department can use to learn how USP applies to Nuclear Pharmacies. A collaborative and transparent relationship is suggested between Nuclear Medicine departments and outsourced Nuclear Pharmacies, as recommended by ASHP (American Society of Health-System Pharmacists) published guidelines.
Freud’s Somatic Paris: The Benjaminian Thesis

Nineteenth-century Paris much like cocaine represented a double colonial conquest. As the metropolis of the second largest Empire in the world and the largest in Africa, Paris represented the center of the primal colonialism, but in Benjamin’s extensive analysis of the city, the Parisian phantasmagoria as an industrially produced culture of the commodity fetish worked as a toxin colonizing urban nerves. The city’s urban renewal, mixing arts and industry, created a collective shock of illusion casting the city into a dreamlike reality to which the epidemic of hysteria became just one of its psychological expressions. Freud’s studies of hysteria with Charcot resulted in Freud’s psychological turn, but he never accounted for the extent to which Paris as a “toxin” influenced his studies of hysteria. He encountered hysteria in the city of collective dreams and of an infrastructural unconscious from which he never woke up.
Tracking of CD8+ effector T cells in intact lung: analysis of environmental guidance (CAM4P.151)

Effector T lymphocytes patrolling peripheral tissues protect organisms against infection and cancer. Recent two-photon imaging studies have revealed that T cells move with high speed through the interstitium of inflammatory tissues. We are interested in assessing migration strategies of tissue-infiltrating T cells and determining how T cell motility affects the efficiency of target search. We perform two-photon imaging using a murine endotoxin lung model to define the rules that govern motility of CD8+ effector T cells. We track individual T cells moving in intact lung for up to three hours but we do not find any evidence for long-range guidance cues for T cells, consistent with observations in other environments. Nevertheless, computational analysis of trajectories with an automated image-analysis algorithm reveals a significant alignment of T cells moving in conjunction with lung-associated vessels. Our results suggest that the architecture of the lung actively guides the migration of effector T cells and may act to limit their movement within tissues. Long term tracking of T cells moving in live tissue can provide a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms driving the search-efficiency of T cells during the effector phase of an immune response.
A Collaborative Autoethnographic Search for Authenticity Amidst the "Fake Real"

This manuscript explores the importance of "authenticity" for the maintenance self-identity for social justice educators in higher education. A collaborative dialogue between two female faculty authors of different ethnicities explores and interprets how to balance one’s own situated understanding of themselves, shared discourse community, and a social justice paradigm. The authors systematically juxtapose their reflections on their experiences as educators in higher education to examine points of similarity and difference. By sharing and interrogating their individual experiences in higher education, the authors argue that the relationship between authenticity, identity, and social justice is complex and multifaceted. The authors conclude by conceptualizing authenticity as a work strategy which plays a vital part in one’s search of her/his individual identity. Keywords: Authenticity, Identity, Social Education, Collaborative Autoethnography
Nano-scale size holes in ER sheets provide an alternative to tubules for highly-curved membranes

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is composed of interconnected membrane sheets and tubules. Super-resolution microscopy recently revealed densely packed, rapidly moving ER tubules, highlighting the importance of revisiting classical views of ER structure with high spatial resolution in living cells. Using live-cell Stimulated Emission Depletion (STED) microscopy, we show highly dynamic, subdiffraction-sized holes in ER sheets. Holes coexist with uniform sheet regions and are distinct from tubular ER structures. The curvature-stabilizing reticulon protein Rtn4 localizes to these holes and the ER luminal tether Climp63 controls their diameter and mobility. Analytical modeling demonstrates that holes in ER sheets can serve as reservoirs for curvature-stabilizing proteins to support ER tubule extension and retraction, thus providing an explanation for how the ER locally alters its morphology on fast time-scales.
Factors associated with crewmember survival of commercial fishing vessel sinkings in Alaska.

Abstract Occupational fatality surveillance has identified that fishing vessel disasters, such as sinkings and capsizings, continue to contribute to the most deaths among crewmembers in the US fishing industry. When a fishing vessel sinks at sea, crewmembers are at risk of immersion in water and subsequent drowning. This study examined survival factors for crewmembers following cold water immersion after the sinking of decked commercial fishing vessels in Alaskan waters during 2000–2014. Two immersion scenarios were considered separately: immersion for any length of time, and long-term immersion defined as immersion lasting over 30 min. Logistic regression was used to predict the odds of crewmember survival. Of the 617 crewmembers onboard 187 fishing vessels that sank in Alaska during 2000–2014, 557 (90.3%) survived and 60 died. For crewmembers immersed for any length of time, the significant adjusted predictors of survival were: entering a life-raft, sinking within three miles of shore, the sinking not being weather-related, and working as a deckhand. For crewmembers immersed for over 30 min, the significant adjusted predictors of survival were: wearing an immersion suit, entering a life-raft, working as a deckhand, and the sinking not being weather-related. The results of this analysis demonstrate that in situations where cold water immersion becomes inevitable, having access to well-maintained, serviceable lifesaving equipment and the knowledge and skills to use it properly are critical.
Mobile Phone Multilevel and Multimedia Messaging Intervention for Breast Cancer Screening: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Despite the increasing breast cancer incidence and mortality rates, Korean American immigrant women have one of the lowest rates of breast cancer screening across racial groups in the United States. Mobile health (mHealth), defined as the delivery of health care information or services through mobile communication devices, has been utilized to successfully improve a variety of health outcomes. Objective: This study adapted the principles of mHealth to advance breast cancer prevention efforts among Korean American immigrant women, an underserved community. Methods: Using a randomized controlled trial design, 120 Korean American women aged 40 to 77 years were recruited and randomly assigned to either the mMammogram intervention group (n=60) to receive culturally and personally tailored multilevel and multimedia messages through a mobile phone app along with health navigator services or the usual care control group (n=60) to receive a printed brochure. Outcome measures included knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about breast cancer screening, readiness for mammography, and mammogram receipt. The feasibility and acceptability of the mMammogram intervention was also assessed. Results: The intervention group showed significantly greater change on scores of knowledge of breast cancer and screening guidelines (P=.01). The intervention group also showed significantly greater readiness for mammography use after the intervention compared with the control group. A significantly higher proportion of women who received the mMammogram intervention (75%, 45/60) completed mammograms by the 6-month follow-up compared with the control group (30%, 18/60; P<.001). In addition, the intervention group rated satisfaction with the intervention (P=.003), effectiveness of the intervention (P<.001), and increase of knowledge on breast cancer and screenings (P=.001) significantly higher than the control group. Conclusions: A mobile phone app–based intervention combined with health navigator service was a feasible, acceptable, and effective intervention mechanism to promote breast cancer screening in Korean American immigrant women. A flexible, easily tailored approach that relies on recent technological advancements can reach underserved and hard-to-recruit populations that bear disproportionate cancer burdens. Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01972048; https://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT01972048 (Archived by WebCite at https://clinicaltrials.gov/archive/NCT01972048/2013_10_29)
THIN-LAYER CHROMATOGRAPHY | Principles

Thin-layer chromatography is a liquid chromatographic method in which the stationary phase is a thin layer of immobilized sorbent on a flat surface through which the mobile phase migrates by capillary forces or by forced flow. The consequences of capillary-controlled flow on the kinetic optimization of layer properties, the separation time, plate height, resolution and spot capacity is discussed and compared with forced-flow development. Multiple development under capillary-controlled flow conditions provides a mechanism to increase the spot capacity and facilitates applications that require solvent-strength gradients for adequate separation. The large spot capacity accessible in two-dimensional thin-layer chromatography with orthogonal separation mechanisms in each development direction provides a further example of the advantage of a planar format for difficult separations in which sample components are separated in space rather than time as is typical of column separations.
Sentiment analysis of tweets for the 2016 US presidential election

Twitter is a popular micro-blogging social media platform. For the 2016 US Presidential election, many people expressed their likes or dislikes for a particular presidential candidate. Our work's aim was to calculate the sentiment expressed by these tweets, and then compare this sentiment with polling data to see how much correlation they share. We used a lexicon and Naive Bayes Machine Learning Algorithm to calculate the sentiment of political tweets collected one-hundred days before the election. We used manually labeled tweets as well as automatically labeled tweets based on hashtag content/topic. Our results suggest that Twitter is becoming a more reliable platform in comparison to previous work. By focusing on tweets 43 days before the election (beginning with the first presidential debate), we found a correlation as high as 94% to polling data using a moving average smoothing technique.
Treatment Response to a Double Administration of Constraint-Induced Language Therapy in Chronic Aphasia.

Purpose This study investigated changes in oral–verbal expressive language associated with improvements following 2 treatment periods of constraint-induced language therapy in 4 participants with s...
Identification of attractive blend for spotted wing drosophila, Drosophila suzukii , from apple juice

Drosophila suzukii, commonly known as the spotted wing drosophila (SWD), is an exotic fruit fly from Southeast Asia that was introduced to the temperate regions of North America and Europe in 2008. It attacks a wide variety of fruits and has become a devastating pest of soft-skinned fruit crops. Due to the rapid spread of SWD across the newly invaded continents, fresh fruit markets have a zero-tolerance policy regarding D. suzukii infestation. Specific and efficient D. suzukii detection tools are urgently needed so that farmers can deliver timely management interventions to meet market demands. Since SWD is known to be attracted to damaged and rotting fruits, headspace volatiles from fresh and fermented apple juices were collected and analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Special attention was given to the compounds produced and/or enriched during the fermentation process. After performing a series of laboataory and field tests, we identified a quinary blend, which is more efficient and selective for D. suzukii than the currently standard apple cider vinegar and commercially available SWD lure under field conditions. Identification of SWD attractant will help growers accurately detect D. suzukii adult infestations in orchards, thereby allowing for timely pest management interventions while reducing conventional insecticidal usage to protect our crops, environment, and ecosystem.
Virtual Standardized Patient

Background: Higher education nursing programs include a physical/health assessment course that prepares graduates to provide excellent care based on data collected through assessment. Finding a teaching strategy that engages students as well as educates them in health assessment techniques is a challenge that all nurse educators share. Objectives: The objectives of this study were to determine the level of engagement and learning that occurred with undergraduate and graduate students who participated in a health assessment course that included the use of an online virtual standardized patient (VSP). Design: Quantitative, descriptive survey research was utilized to determine student nurses’ perception of the use of VSP in a physical assessment course. Setting/Participants: Students in a traditional on-campus BSN program and students in an online RN to BSN and MSN program were included in this study. Methods: After receiving IRB approval, course leaders provided students a standardized questionnaire of two (2) multiple choice and six (6) Likert-style questions. The questions evaluated the participants’ ease of use, comparison of interaction between online virtual and live human patients, ability to perform an exam on a virtual patient, and ability to communicate with a virtual patient. Questionnaires were administered to volunteers in the three identified health assessment courses (BSN, RN-BSN, and MSN). Also evaluated was the participant’s perception of their ability to transfer knowledge from the VSP to the live patient. All students participated in the VSP with completion of the questionnaire optional. Results: Findings in this study generally supported the educational value of using a virtual standardized patient in teaching both undergraduate and graduate students’ health assessment. Variations between the groups were found. Conclusion: Use of a virtual standardized patient is a positive teaching strategy for teaching health assessment in both undergraduate and graduate nursing programs.
Two pathways of exocytosis of cytoplasmic granule contents and target cell killing by cytokine-induced CD3+ CD56+ killer cells

Cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cells are non-major histocompatibility complex-restricted cytotoxic cells generated by incubation of peripheral blood lymphocytes with anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody (MoAb), interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-1, and interferon-gamma. Cells with the greatest effector function in CIK cultures coexpress CD3 and CD56 surface molecules. CIK cell cytotoxicity can be blocked by MoAbs directed against the cell surface protein leukocyte function associated antigen-1 but not by anti-CD3 MoAbs. CIK cells undergo release of cytoplasmic cytotoxic granule contents to the extracellular space upon stimulation with anti-CD3 MoAbs or susceptible target cells. Maximal granule release was observed from the CD3+ CD56+ subset of effector cells. The cytoplasmic granule contents are lytic to target cells. Treatment of the effector cells with a cell-permeable analog of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) inhibited anti-CD3 MoAb and target cell-induced degranulation and cytotoxicity of CIK cells. The immunosuppressive drugs cyclosporin (CsA) and FK506 inhibited anti-CD3-mediated degranulation, but did not affect cytotoxicity of CIK cells against tumor target cells. In addition, degranulation induced by target cells was unaffected by CsA and FK506. Our results indicate that two mechanisms of cytoplasmic granule release are operative in the CD3+ CD56+ killer cells; however, cytotoxicity proceeds through a cAMP-sensitive, CsA- and FK506-insensitive pathway triggered by yet-to-be-identified target cell surface molecules.
Going Public with the Means of Grace: A Homiletical Theology of Promise for Word and Sacrament in a Post-secular age

This article articulates a revisionist homiletical theology of Word and Sacrament for a disestablished church in a disenchanted, post-secular world. Its understanding of the post-secular context, a...
A Comparison of PROMIS UE Versus PF: Correlation to PROMIS PI and Depression, Ceiling and Floor Effects, and Time to Completion.

Purpose This study aimed to (1) determine the correlation of Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Physical Function (PF) with PROMIS Upper Extremity (UE) and compare the correlations of PF and UE with PROMIS Pain Interference (PI) and PROMIS Depression; (2) compare the ability of PF and UE to capture health outcomes across the spectrum in patients seeking hand care; and (3) compare the time to completion for PROMIS PF to that for PROMIS UE. Methods Patients presenting to a hand clinic between October, 2015 and October, 2017 were asked to complete PROMIS PF, UE, PI, and Depression computerized adaptive tests. Spearman correlation coefficients (ρ) were calculated between the domains. Ceiling and floor effects and time to completion of each domain were compared. Results A total of 20,489 unique visits representing 10,344 patients met inclusion criteria. On average, PROMIS UE demonstrated more functional disability than did PROMIS PF (PF: 43.9 [95% confidence interval (CI), 43.7–44.0] vs UE: 38.5 [95% CI, 38.4–38.7]). PROMIS PF and UE were positively correlated (ρ = 0.79) and both were inversely correlated with PROMIS PI (PF: ρ = –0.72; UE: ρ = –0.72). PROMIS PF and UE were both inversely correlated with PROMIS Depression (PF: ρ = –0.44; UE: ρ = –0.44). PROMIS PF demonstrated better ceiling (0.6% vs 7.5%) and floor effects (0.07% vs 0.4%). The PROMIS UE CAT was completed in about the same time as the PROMIS PF CAT (UE: 59.8 seconds [95% CI, 59.3–60.3 seconds] vs PF: 54.1 seconds [95% CI, 53.8–54.5 seconds]). Conclusions PROMIS PF captures functional outcomes similar to those of the UE domain with better performance (ie, ceiling and floor effects) in patients with hand pathologies. Clinical relevance Hand surgeons should consider the trade-off of using PROMIS PF instead of PROMIS UE or vice versa when selecting a domain for patient care. Although PROMIS PF may capture slight variations in function at the extremes better than the current PROMIS UE, this may not be as clinically important as capturing large changes in upper-extremity function more specifically, which PROMIS UE accomplishes.
Examination the impact of various factors on student success in an introduction to circuit analysis course

In this work in progress, several models to predict student success in a sophomore introduction to circuit analysis class were created based on prior grade point average, grade in a pre-requisite physics class, the semester the pre-requisite physics class was taken, the number of units a student was taking, the number of times a student repeated the circuits class, and the number of times a student repeated any class prior to enrollment. While all models were statistically significant, the model that included prior GPA and the grade in a pre-requisite physics was the most significant for the data collection effort. While further study is needed, this is an important first step in creating a reliable model of student success that can be used to investigate educational treatments.
Mechanism of the disordered physiology involved in the Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Report of a case.

A detailed study of the altered gastrointestinal physiology and findings at autopsy in a patient with Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is presented. The results warrant certain considerations with regard to mechanisms involved in the altered physiology.
Breaking Silos: New Modes of Art, Education, and Technology Training in Museums

This chapter looks at the trajectory of an online training project called The Broad Museum’s Online Learning Management System (LMS) Training Tool developed and launched for the museum’s opening in 2015. The online platform was designed to train a new breed of front-line, part-time visitor services museum staff, empowering them to be conversant about the art and exhibitions on view, as well as safety procedures. The online training platform included basic safety training, management policies and operation materials for general museum facilities, and have been since extended for use with retail, restaurant and special events staff training after its initial launch. While the online platform was originally built to support robust, core training environments to support part-time staff with diverse backgrounds and experiences in service, hospitality, and contemporary art education, this chapter traces future potential to nourish museum talent across many digital platforms. Some of the larger questions that museums struggle with include how to help people connect and learn in museums, and how best to help staff engage with visitors to facilitate optimal museum experiences. Ultimately, this chapter looks at ways to form collaborations across many other contemporary art museums to support radical growth for supporting museum talent, across departments and across many kinds of museums.
Job Rotation And Employee Motivation: A Case Of Small ICT Firms In Nairobi Kenya

This study explored how job rotation affects employee motivation. The population of the study consisted of 90 employees who worked in small ICT firms in Nairobi. Simple random sampling was applied to select a sample size of 45 employees. A structured questionnaire was used as a data collection tool. The data analysis involved descriptive statistics and also, Chi Square test which was computed to determine the relationship between job rotation and employee motivation. The results showed that there was a significant association between job rotation and employee motivation. Key words: Job Rotation, Employee Motivation, Extrinsic Motivation, Intrinsic Motivation
Implementation of an Outcome Measure in Pediatric Behavioral Health: A Process Improvement Initiative.

Introduction Efforts to monitor outcomes in pediatric behavioral health are becoming a quality, financial, and regulatory imperative. The implementation of a broad-based measure to assess patient functioning at the start of pediatric psychology services, as well as at subsequent visits, has not been demonstrated. This article describes the systematic implementation of a measure of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) to assess functional impairment across an entire clinic population using quality improvement science and methodologies. Methods The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Generic Core 4.0 (PedsQL) was administered at initial and subsequent visits for all patients seeking treatment at a large, tertiary care pediatric psychology clinic in an academic pediatric medical center (Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio). The goal of this project was to design a process change to support a 90% completion rate of this measurement tool by all clinicians. Results Within 16 months, the completion rate of the PedsQL increased from a baseline of 39% to the identified goal of 90%. This process change was within control limits (over 80%) for over 12 months. Conclusion This study demonstrates the implementation of a systematic process for collection of outcome measures in a pediatric behavioral health care setting. Successful administration of an outcome measure at multiple time points during the care of children and adolescents in a large psychology clinic can allow for quantitative assessment of treatment progress and identify a pathway for administration of additional measures.
Education and Technology as Levers for Sustainable Change

In the last decade, researchers have increasingly analyzed the interaction between business and environment under new perspectives. We join this effort focusing on the positive change that can arise from new collaborative opportunities between business and the environment, in order to embrace environmental challenges and pursue reciprocal benefits. We evaluate this synergetic activity using system thinking which identifies pivotal center, has the power to originate connections, and regulates a system’s behavior. In this regard, we believe education and technology are among the most important elements in the system. They play a major role in determining and weighing the interactions between environment and business. The two scenarios presented here are (1) the status quo system and (2) a system in which technology and education are empowered and serve as leverage points to develop a more efficient use of the world resources, thus using a smaller portion of the world’s physical capacity. This last scenario focuses on one environmental sphere (water), but the same tool could be applied to other environmental aspects. We build our analysis balancing the contributions coming from both professional and academic spheres. Progress has been made to integrate sustainability into strategy, such as the adoption of science-based targets by organizations aiming to reduce the effect of climate change. The authors believe that this process explains new ways in which business and society can thrive for generations to come.
Characteristics and survival of ovarian cancer patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy but not undergoing interval debulking surgery.

Objective: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) followed by interval debulking surgery (IDS) confers similar outcomes as primary debulking surgery and chemotherapy. Little is known about patients who receive NACT but do not undergo debulking surgery. Our aim was to characterize these patients. Methods: We prospectively identified patients with newly diagnosed stage III/IV ovarian cancer treated with NACT from 7/1/15-12/1/17. Fisher exact and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests were used to compare clinical characteristics by surgical status. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate survival outcomes. Log-rank test and Cox proportional hazards model were applied to assess the relationship of covariates to outcome, and time-dependent covariates were applied to variables collected after diagnosis. Results: Of 224 women who received NACT, 162 (72%) underwent IDS and 62 (28%) did not undergo surgery. The non-surgical group was older (p<0.001), had higher Charlson comorbidity index (CCI; p<0.001), lower albumin levels (p=0.007), lower Karnofsky performance scores (p<0.001), and were more likely to have dose reductions in NACT (p<0.001). Reasons for no surgery included poor response to NACT (39%), death (15%), comorbidities (24%), patient preference (16%), and loss to follow-up (6%). The no surgery group had significantly worse overall survival (OS) than the surgery group (hazard ratio=3.34; 95% confidence interval=1.66-6.72; p<0.001), after adjustment for age, CCI, and dose reductions. Conclusions: A significant proportion of women treated with NACT do not undergo IDS, and these women are older, frailer, and have worse OS. More studies are needed to find optimal therapies to maximize outcomes in this high-risk, elderly population.
NCMDSDV: A Neighbor Coverage Multipsth DSDV Routing Protocol for MANETs

A mobile ad-hoc network is a set of mobile nodes in which data is transmitted wirelessly amongst all nodes. Due to the mobility of wireless nodes, network topology changes frequently. Consequently, routing protocols used in mobile ad-hoc networks must be adaptive. The routing protocols enabling data transfer within MANETs are classified into reactive, proactive, and hybrid protocols. Proactive routing protocols, such as the Destination Sequenced Distance Vector, are table- driven protocols that use stale paths in case of broken links which causes loss of data in the network. This research study will explore A Neighbor Coverage Multipath DSDV as a potential solution for data loss by finding alternate routes to the destination when a link is broken. Simulations have been carried out for the three routing protocols: DSDV, FSR, and the proposed NCMDSDV. Results showed that the proposed routing protocol has better efficiency compared to DSDV and FSR routing protocols.
Thermally-Degradable Thermoset Adhesive Based on a Cellulose Nanocrystals/Epoxy Nanocomposite

For high-value components, reusability is often an important design consideration. For adhesively joined parts, the disassembly mechanism can be a key factor, and in some cases the thermal degradab...
Computational response modeling reveals context dependent Akt activity in luminal breast cancer cells

ABSTRACT Aberrant signaling through insulin (Ins) and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF1) receptors contributes to the risk and advancement of many cancer types by activating cell survival cascades. Mechanistic computational modeling of such pathways provides insights into each component’s role in the cell response. In previous computational models, the two receptors were treated as indistinguishable, missing the opportunity to delineate their distinct roles in cancer progression. Here, a dual receptor (IGF1R & InsR) computational model elucidated new experimental hypotheses on how differential early responses emerge. Complementary to our previous findings, the model suggested that the regulation of insulin receptor substrate (IRS) is critical in inducing differential MAPK and Akt activation. As predicted, perturbing ribosomal protein S6 kinase (RPS6K) kinase activity led to an increased Akt activation with insulin stimulation compared to IGF1 stimulation. Being able to discern differential downstream signaling, we can explore improved anti-IGF1R cancer therapies by eliminating emergence of compensation mechanisms, without disrupting InsR signaling. Implications The study shows, both experimentally and through computational models, that IGF1 and insulin receptor signaling pathways respond differently to RPS6K inhibition.
Multi-Terminal Dual-Junction GaAs0.73P0.27/In0.22Ga0.78As Nanowire Solar Cell: An Integrated Approach to Simulation

A four-terminal dual-junction (2J) nanowire (NW) solar cell device concept is proposed and optimized via combined optoelectronic simulation using TCAD tools by Synopsys®. Rigorous coupled wave analysis (RCWA) was used for simulating absorption in GaAs 0.73 P 0.27 and In 0.22 Ga 0.78 As NW arrays, while co-simulations in RSoft and Sentaurus was used to develop optimized core-shell NW diode parameters. It was shown that heterojunction designs comprising a wide-bandGaP emitter (GaP and GaAs for the top and bottom cells, respectively) is preferred for reduced impact of surface recombination velocity (SRV) as it promotes recovery of the open-circuit voltages by up to 30 mV and can achieve tandem device efficiency up to 27%. An experimental implementation of the stacked NW solar cell relying on the embedding of the NWs in flexible membranes and delamination of the arrays from the host substrate has been successfully developing. Owing to the versatility of this manufacturing method, the device can be enhanced with rear-side textured reflectors boosting the currents in the sub-cells.
Visualizing, clustering, and characterizing activity-trip sequences via weighted sequence alignment and functional data analysis

Abstract Smartphone-based activity-travel surveys have enabled the collection of continuous, multi-day data on individuals’ trips and activities with high spatial and temporal resolution. However, the multi-dimensional nature of these data makes it challenging to compare activity-travel patterns and identify clusters of individuals with similar patterns and use them to study behaviors and forecast travel demands. To address this challenge, we adopt a discrete, step-based view on time and transform the episodic-based diary into a sequence of states observed at a sample interval. The resulting sequences can visually characterize variations in activity-travel patterns across days of a week and among different individuals. Motivated by techniques in genomics and data science, we apply sequence alignment methods to measure the pairwise similarity between these activity-trip sequences. To address its practical implementation in transportation studies, we define and compare four weighting schemas: (1) the unit-cost distance, which assigns equal weights to all substitution operations between states; (2) the fixed-flexible weighted distance based on the time geography framework, where costs differ for substitutions involving fixed and flexible activities; (3) the trip-activity weighted distance considering travel as a derived demand, where costs differ for substitutions between trips and activities; and (4) transition-based weighted distance, where costs are based on the global or time-varying activity and trip transition rates estimated from the data. Then, we calculate the pairwise distances between individuals’ sequences and use them as inputs to a hierarchical clustering algorithm to group individuals with similar sequences. We visualize the state distributions of the identified clusters to infer and compare behavior patterns, and use functional data regression methods to estimate the time-dependent probabilities of engaging in various activities and trips. To demonstrate our methods, we analyze a smartphone-based survey dataset collected in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area. We also conduct sensitivity analysis on the selection of cost metrics and sample intervals to ensure the robustness of our methods and discuss their implications in practice. By identifying population subgroups with distinct daily activity-travel patterns and explaining how these patterns vary over one day and depend on user profiles, our weighted sequence alignment approach provides an intuitive and flexible method for extracting and characterizing individuals’ activity-travel behaviors for use in transportation planning.
Slow your role: Troubling (our) assumptions about higher education

This semester-long discussion activity is designed for onboarding faculty at any rank or status, including new faculty or graduate teaching assistant/associate orientations, faculty learning commun...
Determining Road Networks’ Platoonability

AbstractTruck platooning has several benefits over traditional truck mobility. Platooning improves safety and reduces fuel consumption up to 15%, depending on platoon configuration. Although platoo...