cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract 3353: The CD44 hi cell population from malignant pleural effusion derived lung tumors displays increased tumorigenic potential

We have developed a new model system (http://dx.plos.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0005884) to test whether we can isolate candidate Cancer Stem Cell (CSC) populations from clinical specimens and validate that they possess increased tumorigenic and/or metastogenic potential. The model utilizes primary tumor cell populations derived from human malignant pleural effusions (MPE), which are cultured in an autologous tumor microenvironment (TME). This model system maintains intratumoral heterogeneity, and contains molecular signatures, surface phenotypes, and metabolic biomarkers that are associated with candidate CSC. The current study compares isogenic primary tumor subpopulations, separated on the basis of a surface biomarker expression, in terms of differences in molecular marker expression, and bioassays that measure clonogenic efficiency and tumorigenic potential. CD44, a surface CSC-biomarker, is expressed on most of the primary tumor cells (75-95%) derived from MPE. The CD44 expressing tumor cells can be divided into two groups (CD44 hi ) and (CD44 lo ) on the basis of CD44 surface labeling intensity. The CD44 hi and CD44 lo tumor cells were sorted (10% of each) from total tumor cell populations by FACS and evaluated for their clonogenicity on plastic (colony forming efficiency) and for colony forming units in soft agar (anchorage independent growth). Studies show that the CD44 hi tumor cells are 40-60% more efficient in forming colonies, and give rise to larger colonies than CD44 lo tumor cells. Expression of other candidate CSC biomarkers was also compared in the two cell subsets to determine the molecular correlates of CD44 hi versus CD44 lo cells. CD44 hi cells coexpress higher levels of BMI-1, hTERT, EZH2, and OCT-4 by RT-PCR than CD44 lo tumor cells, but there is no apparent difference in the expression of SUZ12 between these two populations. CD44 hi cells also have increased ALDH expression based on the Aldefluor assay. To determine whether these subpopulations differed in terms of tumorigenic potential, limiting dilutions of cells were heterotopically (subcutaneous flank region) injected in NOD/SCID (IL-2gR null ) mice in comparison to CD44 lo tumor cells. Low numbers of CD44 hi cells (down to 300 cells) efficiently formed tumors, whereas isogenic CD44 lo tumor cells failed to form tumors at the same cell doses. Thus, CD44 hi cells have higher tumorigenic potential than CD44 lo cells, and these studies suggest that these primary tumor populations are preferentially enriched for the candidate CSC phenotype. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3353.
Twenty-four-hour duration of effect of intranasal corticosteroids for seasonal allergic rhinitis symptoms: clinical evidence and relevance.

Background Seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) symptoms are often most severe and/or disruptive during overnight and morning hours, resulting in cognitive/performance impairments and reduced quality of life throughout the following day. Surveys of allergy patients and health care practitioners reveal a common perception that intranasal steroids (INSs), many of which are dosed q.d., fail to adequately relieve symptoms for a full 24 hours. This review assessed whether perceptions of the 24-hour duration of action of INSs correspond with duration of action documented in clinical literature. Methods SAR clinical trial literature of the last 5 years was reviewed to identify studies of INSs incorporating morning instantaneous (A.M. NOW) or instantaneous assessments of 24-hour duration of action. Results In numerous placebo-controlled trials of INSs in patients with SAR, treatment was associated with significantly greater improvements in A.M. NOW symptoms from baseline versus placebo. For congestion, this is noteworthy, because patients often cite this symptom, especially in the morning, as the most bothersome symptom. Comparison of A.M. NOW and daily scores suggests minimal drop in efficacy at 24 hours postdose. In several studies, INS treatment was found superior to intranasal or oral antihistamines in A.M. NOW symptom improvement. Conclusion Once-daily INSs have potential for effective 24-hour symptom relief; however, there is an apparent disconnect between these findings and patient/physician perceptions. This discrepancy may be explained, in part, by less-than-ideal treatment adherence among "real-world" patients versus subjects treated in clinical trials. Proactive counseling can encourage proper INS use and help maximize treatment benefits.
Comparison of Byproduct formation in Waters Treated with Chlorine and Iodine: Relevance to Point-of-Use Treatment

Due to their efficacy in deactivating a range of microbial pathogens, particularly amoebic cysts, iodine-based disinfectants have been a popular option for point-of-use (POU) drinking water disinfection by campers, the military, and rural consumers in developing countries. Recently, concerns regarding the formation of cytotoxic and genotoxic iodinated disinfection byproducts (I-DBPs) have arisen during chloramine disinfection of iodide-containing waters in the developed world; similar concerns should pertain to iodine-based POU disinfection. Because there are alternative POU disinfection techniques, including chlorine-based disinfectants, this paper compared disinfection byproduct formation from a range of iodine-based disinfectants at their recommended dosages to chlorination and chloramination under overdosing conditions. Just as chloroform was the predominant trihalomethane (THM) forme during chlorination or chloramination, iodoform was the predominant THM formed during iodination. Conditions fostering...
Optimizing the Amount of Practice in an On-Line Platform

Intelligent tutoring systems are known for providing customized learning opportunities for thousands of users. One feature of many systems is differentiating the amount of practice users receive. To do this, some systems rely on a threshold of consecutive correct responses. For instance, Khan Academy used to use ten correct in a row and now uses five correct in a row as the mastery threshold. The present research uses a series of randomized control trials, conducted in an online learning platform (eg., ASSISTments.org), to explore the effects of different thresholds of consecutive correct responses on learning. Results indicate that despite spending significantly more time practicing there is no significant difference on learning between two, three, four, or five consecutive correct responses. This suggests that systems, and MOOCS, can employ the simple rule of two or three consecutive correct responses when determining the amount of practice provided to users.
Analysis on Vibrio parahaemolyticus in shellfish products from coastal district of Ningbo

Objective:To understand the pollution of the Vibrio parahaemolyticus in shellfish products to provide the evidence for prevention and treatment of disease which caused by Vibrio parahaemolyticus.Methods:Five kinds of Shellfish products(Blood clam,Small clam,Oyster,Razor clam and Short necked clam) to be tested.According to the standard technique GB/T 4789.7-2003,serotype were typed by standard serum,drug-resistances were tested by disk diffusion method and virulence genes tdh and trh were determinated by PCR.Results:21 of 42th were infected by Vibrio parahaemolyticus,and the positive rate was 21/42(50.0%),including seven serum groups: O:1 9.5%(2/21),O:2 19.0%(4/21),O:3 19.0%(4/21),O:4 28.6%(6/21),O:7 4.8%(1/21),O:10 4.8%(1/21),O:11 14.3%(3/21).Drug sensitive test to show that 21 strains of Vibrio parahaemolyticus sensitive to cotrimoxazole and chloramphenicol,penicillin,aminoglycosides,sulfonamides,quinolones,cephalosporins have varying degrees of drug resistance.Two of 21 strains of Vibrio parahaemolyticus' tdh virulence gene were positive and trh virulence genes were negative.Conclusion:The separation of Vibrio parahaemolyticus from the shellfish products has the diversity of serotyping and drug-resistant multiple characteristics.
Development of a rotation-based negative stiffness device for seismic protection of structures

Researchers worldwide have developed various semi-active control devices for seismic protection of structures. Most of these devices are electromechanical in nature and thus require a power source for their operation. In this paper, a newly developed rotation-based mechanical adaptive passive device is presented. These unique devices are able to mechanically change stiffness, either by adding positive or negative stiffness, by using different types of rotational elements. The devices are compact due to their use of rotational elements, facilitating their implementation in structures. The conceptual development of these devices is presented herein along with analytical models and numerical simulation results that demonstrate their potential for providing seismic protection. In addition, an extension of the stiffness modulation concept is introduced wherein damping is modulated.
Erfahrungen mit Rinderarterien in der Hämodialyse

Der sog. „Scribner-Shunt“von Quinton et al. [1] und die subkutane arteriovenose Fistel nach Brescia-Cimino [2] sind seit vielen Jahren die Standardmethoden zur akuten oder chronischen Hamodialyse. Diese Methoden sind nicht immer anwendbar. Insbesondere die Aufnahme von Patienten, die ein hoheres Risiko darstellen, z. B. Diabetiker, in das Hamodialyse- und Transplantationsprogramm, macht Alternativlosungen notwendig.
7.06 – Tumor Radiation Biology

This chapter describes the various models used to assess the effects of radiation on tumors in animals, and the various cellular, tumor, and host factors that affect the response. A significant focus of the chapter is the consequence of tumor hypoxia for radiotherapy and the ways in which the disadvantage of tumor hypoxia can be turned into a therapeutic advantage. It also discusses the relevance of radiation effects on the tumor vasculature and the potential of molecular-targeted drugs such as inhibitors of DNA repair, angiogenesis, and vasculogenesis to enhance radiotherapy.
Wildlife poisoning in Crete and the intentions of local interest groups to engage in anti-poisoning actions

AbstractIn the mountains of Crete, a significant number of animals are poisoned each year. The largest of the Greek islands, Crete is home to significantly large pasture and hunting areas. In an effort to address wildlife poisoning, structured interviews were conducted with specific social groups (hunters, livestock farmers, environmental officers, veterinarians) relating to wildlife poisoning in Crete to explore their intention to engage in anti-poisoning actions. The survey was conducted from early 2013 to mid-2014 and a total of 415 people were surveyed. Survey results indicate that although barriers in effective biodiversity governance have created mistrust between local environmental authorities and local residents, the main social groups related to illegal use of poisoned baits are willing to support alternative methods to address predation impacts. This paper points out the clear need for social learning strategies aimed at local interest groups and for opportunities for more meaningful and democra...
Resonance vibrations of the Ross Ice Shelf and observations of persistent atmospheric waves

Recently reported lidar observations have revealed a persistent wave activity in the Antarctic middle and upper atmosphere that has no counterpart in observations at mid- and low-latitude locations. The unusual wave activity suggests a geographically specific source of atmospheric waves with periods of 3–10 hours. Here, we investigate theoretically the hypothesis that the unusual atmospheric wave activity in Antarctica is generated by the fundamental and low-order modes of vibrations of the Ross Ice Shelf (RIS). Simple models are developed to describe basic physical properties of resonant vibrations of large ice shelves and their coupling to the atmosphere. Dispersion relation of the long surface waves, which propagate in the floating ice sheet and are responsible for its low-order resonances, is found to be similar to the dispersion relation of infragravity waves in the ice-free ocean. The phase speed of the surface waves and the resonant frequencies determine the periods and wave vectors of atmospheric waves that are generated by the RIS resonant oscillations. The altitude-dependent vertical wavelengths and the periods of the acoustic-gravity waves in the atmosphere are shown to be sensitive to the physical parameters of the RIS, which can be difficult to measure by other means. Predicted properties of the atmospheric waves prove to be in a remarkable agreement with the key features of the observed persistent wave activity.
ENSO modulation of tropical Indian Ocean subseasonal variability

In this study, we use 30 years of retrospective climate model forecasts and observational estimates to show that El Nino/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) affects the amplitude of subseasonal variability of sea surface temperature (SST) in the southwest Indian Ocean, an important Tropical Intraseasonal Oscillation (TISO) onset region. The analysis shows that deeper background mixed-layer depths and warmer upper ocean conditions during El Nino reduce the amplitude of the subseasonal SST variability over Seychelles-Chagos Thermocline Ridge (SCTR), which may reduce SST-wind coupling and the amplitude of TISO variability. The opposite holds for La Nina where the shallower mixed-layer depth enhances SST variability over SCTR, which may increase SST-wind coupling and the amplitude of TISO variability.
Storytelling in heterogeneous Twitter entity network based on hierarchical cluster routing

Connecting the dots between diverse entities such as people and organizations is a vital task for forming hypotheses and uncovering latent relationships among complex and large datasets. Most existing approaches are designed to address the relationship of entities in news reports, documents and abstracts, but such approaches are not suitable for Twitter data streams due to their unstructured languages, short-length messages, heterogeneous features and massive size. The sheer size of Twitter data requires more efficient algorithms to connect the dots within a short period of time. We present a system that automatically constructs stories by connecting entities in Twitter datasets. An entity similarity model is designed that combines both traditional entity-related features and social network attributes and a novel story generation algorithm applied on the similarity model is proposed to cope with the massive Twitter datasets. Extensive experimental evaluations were conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of this new approach.
Identification by next-generation sequencing of Aichivirus B in a calf with enterocolitis and neurologic signs: a cautionary tale

An 11-d-old Holstein bull calf was presented to the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital at the University of Wisconsin–Madison because of a 4-d history of diarrhea and persistent low-grade fever. ...
Fault Detection of a Rotating Shaft by Using the Electromechanical Impedance Method and a Temperature Compensation Approach

Condition-based maintenance systems that use sensor networks for damage detection in rotating machinery have been evolving constantly. Such strategies aim at detecting the presence and severity of damage on a statistical basis. The aim of this contribution relies on the correct detection of incipient faults in rotating shafts by using a real-time impedance-based structural health monitoring method, with a low-cost portable device. This technique monitors changes in the electric impedance of piezoelectric transducers, acting simultaneously as actuators and sensors, which are bonded to the host structure. With the use of damage metrics, these changes can be quantified so that the presence and severity of damage are detected. This is possible since the electrical impedance of the sensor is directly related to the mechanical impedance of the structure. However, the frequency response functions resulting from this method are susceptible to environmental and operational conditions that should be accounted for to avoid false diagnostics. Consequently, a temperature compensation technique is proposed based on a hybrid optimization method associated with different damage metrics. Additionally, a statistical model is used for threshold determination based on the statistical process control method. Experimental results show that an incipient fatigue crack associated with bearing wear was successfully detected with a probability of detection above 95% confidence for the majority of sensors used.
A New Pattern Recognition Adaptive Controller

Abstract This paper describes a novel method for automatically adjusting the gain and integral time of proportional-integral controllers based upon patterns that characterize the closed-loop response. The method was developed for self-regulating systems that can be modeled as first-order plus dead-time systems. This new pattern recognition adaptive controller (PRAC) is easy to use and provides near-optimal performance for a range of systems and noise levels. Also, the algorithm is computationally efficient and does not have large memory requirements. PRAC has successfully tuned control systems for heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning equipment in a number of buildings.
Activity recognition using imagery for smart home monitoring

In this chapter, we will describe our comprehensive literature survey on using vision technologies for in-home activity monitoring using computer vision techniques, as well as computational intelligence (CI) approaches. Specifically, through our survey of the body of work, we will address the following questions: I. What are the challenges of using standard RGB cameras for activity analysis and how are they solved? II. Why do most existing algorithms perform so poorly in real-world settings? III. Which the design choices should be considered when deciding between wearable cameras or stationary cameras for activity analysis? IV. What does CI bring to the vision world as compared to computer vision techniques in the activity analysis domain?
Two-dimensional fractional Fourier transform and some of its properties

The fractional Fourier transform (FrFT), which is a generalization of the Fourier transform, has become the focus of many research papers in recent years because of its applications in electrical e...
Nitrite in nitric oxide biology: Cause or consequence?: A systems-based review

All life requires nitrogen compounds. Nitrite is such a compound that is naturally occurring in nature and biology. Over the years, the pharmacological stance on nitrite has undergone a surprising metamorphosis, from a vilified substance that generates carcinogenic nitrosamines in the stomach to a life-saving drug that liberates a protective agent (nitric oxide or NO) during hypoxic events. Nitrite has been investigated as a vasodilator in mammals for over 125 years and is a known by-product of organic nitrate metabolism. There has been a recent rediscovery of some of the vasodilator actions of nitrite in physiology along with novel discoveries which render nitrite a fundamental molecule in biology. Until recently nitrite was thought to be an inert oxidative breakdown product of endogenous NO synthesis but the past few years have focused on the reduction of nitrite back to NO in the circulation as a possible mechanism for hypoxic vasodilatation. Nitrite has evolved into an endogenous signaling molecule and regulator of gene expression that may not only serve as a diagnostic marker but also find its role as a potential therapeutic agent of cardiovascular disease. These data therefore warrant a reevaluation on the fate and metabolism of nitrite in biological systems. This review serves to encompass the history and recent evolution of nitrite, the compartment-specific metabolism of nitrite and its role in plasma as a biomarker for disease, the role of nitrite as a potential regulator of NO homeostasis, and the future of nitrite-based research.
A study of interplay between articulatory movement and prosodic characteristics in emotional speech production.

This paper investigates the interplay between articulatory movement and voice source activity as a function of emotions in speech production. Our hypothesis is that humans use different modulation methods in which articulatory movements and prosodic modulations are differently weighted across different emotions. This hypothesis was examined by joint analysis of the two domains, using two statistical representations: (1) the sample distribution comparison using two-sigma ellipses of the articulatory speed statistics and prosodic feature (pitch or intensity) statistics, (2) the comparison of correlation coefficients. In the articulatory-prosodic spaces, we find (1) distinctive weighting patterns for angry and happy emotional speech and (2) distinctive correlation patterns depending on articulators and target emotions. These findings support the hypothesis that humans use different modulation methods of emphasizing articulatory motions and/or prosodic activities depending on emotion.
A review of inflammatory mechanism in airway diseases

Inflammation in the lung is the body’s natural response to injury. It acts to remove harmful stimuli such as pathogens, irritants, and damaged cells and initiate the healing process. Acute and chronic pulmonary inflammation are seen in different respiratory diseases such as; acute respiratory distress syndrome, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and cystic fibrosis (CF). In this review, we found that inflammatory response in COPD is determined by the activation of epithelial cells and macrophages in the respiratory tract. Epithelial cells and macrophages discharge transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), which trigger fibroblast proliferation and tissue remodeling. Asthma leads to airway hyper-responsiveness, obstruction, mucus hyper-production, and airway-wall remodeling. Cytokines, allergens, chemokines, and infectious agents are the main stimuli that activate signaling pathways in epithelial cells in asthma. Mutation of the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene results in CF. Mutations in CFTR influence the lung epithelial innate immune function that leads to exaggerated and ineffective airway inflammation that fails to abolish pulmonary pathogens. We present mechanistic computational models (based on ordinary differential equations, partial differential equations and agent-based models) that have been applied in studying the complex physiological and pathological mechanisms of chronic inflammation in different airway diseases. The scope of the present review is to explore the inflammatory mechanism in airway diseases and highlight the influence of aging on airways’ inflammation mechanism. The main goal of this review is to encourage research collaborations between experimentalist and modelers to promote our understanding of the physiological and pathological mechanisms that control inflammation in different airway diseases.
Calcium Signaling in Cholangiocytes: Methods, Mechanisms, and Effects

Calcium (Ca2+) is a versatile second messenger that regulates a number of cellular processes in virtually every type of cell. The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (ITPR) is the only intracellular Ca2+ release channel in cholangiocytes, and is therefore responsible for Ca2+-mediated processes in these cells. This review will discuss the machinery responsible for Ca2+ signals in these cells, as well as experimental models used to investigate cholangiocyte Ca2+ signaling. We will also discuss the role of Ca2+ in the normal and abnormal regulation of secretion and apoptosis in cholangiocytes, two of the best characterized processes mediated by Ca2+ in this cell type.
Intrinsically Stretchable Temperature Sensor Based on Organic Thin-Film Transistors

Achieving reliable electrical performance with stretchability and conformability is a key issue for wearable electronics. In this letter, we demonstrate an intrinsically stretchable temperature sensor element based on organic thin-film transistors (OTFTs). The OTFTs were characterized with respect to their temperature and strain dependence, and subsequently evaluated using differential readout circuit schemes. We considered two circuit variants to accommodate OTFTs with nominally positive or negative threshold voltages. Due to the strain suppression afforded by the differential readout, the intrinsically stretchable temperature sensor element achieves an inaccuracy within 1 °C with uniaxial strains from 0–30 %.
What are the benefits of having a village? Effects of allomaternal care on communicative skills in early infancy

Abstract This study investigates whether exposure to allomaternal care (AMC—care for infants from individuals other than the mother) improves rates of communicative behaviors during late infancy by providing more opportunities to practice communicating with varied caregivers. Data were collected from 102 typically-developing infants aged 13–18 months and their mothers. AMC variables were collected using a current care questionnaire, structured 14-day diary, and longitudinal interview. Communicative behaviors were assessed through post hoc microcoding of in-lab administrations of the Early Social Communication Scales (ESCS), as well as additional microcoding of the Bayley III Screening Cognitive Subtest. Demographic covariates were also included. For each communicative behavior, backward model selection was used to determine the best fitting linear regression model. Results suggested that rates of turn-taking decreased with Household AMC (p
Alterations in kinetic parameters resulting in modification of toxicity.

Pharmacokinetic measurements are now routinely integrated within toxicity studies as a means of providing information on drug availability and dose response across test species exposed to different dosage regimens for various periods of treatment (Smith et al, 1990). The quantification of plasma concentrations and areas under plasma concentration against time curves (AUC) has proved very useful to identify changes in toxicity linked to formulation, absorption variability, sex- or dose-dependent kinetics, and induction or inhibition of metabolizing enzymes.
Intra-articular proximal jig pin placement during tibial plateau leveling osteotomy.

Background : During tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO), a TPLO jig is often used. For placement of the jig, one of the pins is placed slightly distal to the joint line. Erroneous pin placement may lead to intra-articular damage; however, the path of the pin tract has not been thoroughly investigated. Aim : To document the rate and identify potential risk factors of intra-articular jig pin placement in dogs undergoing TPLO with the use of a TPLO jig. Methods : Medical records and pre- and postoperative radiographs (2007–2017) of 696 dogs with TPLO performed with a jig were reviewed. Primary surgeon and tibial plateau angles (TPA) were recorded. Postoperative radiographs were evaluated and classified according to intra-articular jig pin placement. Medial tibial plateau jig pin placement was defined as a radiolucent tract on the osteochondral junction of the medial tibial plateau. Lateral tibial plateau placement was defined as a radiolucent tract within 3 mm of the medial tibial plateau with a pin trajectory penetrating the lateral tibial plateau. Rates of intra-articular jig pin placement were calculated, and associations between intra-articular jig pin placement and surgeon experience and TPA were assessed with a chi-squared test. Results : Thirty-seven (5.32%) dogs had intra-articular placement of the jig pin. Seven dogs had medial tibial plateau jig placement, and 30 had lateral tibial plateau placement. There was no relationship between the TPA or surgeon level of experience and intra-articular placement of the pin. Conclusion : This study serves as a reminder to be cautious when placing the proximal jig pin during TPLO to avoid intra-articular placement. In addition, guidelines for evaluating proximal jig pin placement on postoperative radiographs are provided. Keywords: Jig, Tibial plateau angle, Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy.
Providing individualized written asthma action plans during the pediatric emergency department visit

Introduction: Among children presenting to the pediatric emergency department (PED) with an asthma exacerbation, the objective was to determine if creating an individualized written asthma action p...
Emerging treatments in advanced urothelial cancer

Purpose of review Urothelial carcinoma is one of the 10 most common forms of cancer in the world with more than half a million cases diagnosed yearly. The past few years have witnessed a revolution in understanding the biology of urothelial carcinoma and the development of promising therapies. In this review, we summarize the emerging therapeutic approaches in the management of advanced urothelial carcinoma. Recent findings Since 2016, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved five checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs), a fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) inhibitor, and an antibody drug conjugate (ADC) for the treatment of advanced urothelial carcinoma. Additionally, the FDA has granted several breakthrough designations for other therapeutic strategies including other ADCs. Summary CPIs, anti-FGFR agents and ADCs are significant advancements that offer new treatment options to patients with advanced urothelial carcinoma. However, there remains a need to understand mechanisms of resistance, identify biomarkers to choose potential responders, and learn the best strategy to sequence these agents in regards to lines of therapy.
The “Rashômon Effect” Effect: Post-Orientalism in the Era of #MeToo

In Akira Kurasawa’s classic 1950 film Rashomon, three participants testify to a tribunal about a rape/murder. The rape itself has been elided into the crime of murder in most of the literature—a sy...
Validation of a new instrument to measure disease-related distress among patients with haemophilia.

INTRODUCTION In patients with haemophilia, general psychological distress as measured by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) distress thermometer has been associated with pain, disability and increased healthcare utilization. AIMS To develop and validate a measure of haemophilia-related distress. METHODS After qualitative interviews, the Hemophilia-Related Distress Questionnaire (HRDq) was developed. To validate the HRDq, adults (≥18 years) with haemophilia were enrolled, reported demographic and clinical information, and completed the HRDq and other questionnaires that measured similar constructs. Analysis included factor analysis and assessment of internal consistency using Cronbach's α, convergent validity using Pearson's correlation coefficient, and discriminant validity by comparing subgroups of patients. Test-retest reliability was assessed using an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). RESULTS Among 130 enrolled participants, 126 (median age=32.7 years) completed the 24 item HRDq in a median time of 5.4 minutes with overall HRDq scores ranging from 2 to 83 (median score=31.5; higher scores indicating higher distress). Assessment of convergent validity demonstrated a strong correlation (ρ>.60) of the HRDq total score with the NCCN Distress Thermometer, Haem-A-QoL total Score, and PROMIS-29 Profile social role domain and a mild to moderate correlation with all other questionnaire domains (.3-.59, p < .05). Distress was higher among those who had less education, were not employed, and were disabled and was not significantly different among those with severe compared with non-severe disease. Assessment of test-retest reliability demonstrated an ICC value of .84 (95% CI .71-.91) for the total score. CONCLUSIONS The HRDq demonstrates good internal consistency, construct and discriminant validity, and retest reliability with a low responder burden.
Knowledge-based parsing

An extremely significant feature of any natural language (NL) is that it is its own metalanguage. One can use an NL to talk about the NL itself. One can use an NL to tutor a non-native speaker, or other poor language user, in the use of the same NL. We have been exploring methods of knowledge representation and NL understanding (NLU) which would allow an artificial intelligence (AI) system to play the role of poor language user in this setting. The AI system would have to understand NL utterances about how the NL is used, and improve its NLU abilities according to this instruction. It would be an NLU system for which the domain being discussed in NL is the NL itself.
Beyond national regulation in higher education? Revisiting regulation and understanding organisational responses to foreign accreditation of management education programmes

Regulation of higher education worldwide has become a complex process. New developments, such as the accreditation of institutions and programmes by foreign, and usually private, agencies, has not ...
Supersizing supercenters? The impact of Walmart Supercenters on body mass index and obesity

Abstract Researchers have linked the rise in obesity to technological progress reducing the opportunity cost of food consumption and increasing the opportunity cost of physical activity. We examine this hypothesis in the context of Walmart Supercenters, whose advancements in retail logistics have translated to substantial reductions in the prices of food and other consumer goods. Using data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System matched with Walmart Supercenter entry dates and locations, we examine the effects of Supercenters on body mass index (BMI) and obesity. We account for the endogeneity of Walmart Supercenter locations with an instrumental variables approach that exploits the unique geographical pattern of Supercenter expansion around Walmart’s headquarters in Bentonville, Arkansas. An additional Supercenter per 100,000 residents increases average BMI by 0.24 units and the obesity rate by 2.3% points. These results imply that the proliferation of Walmart Supercenters explains 10.5% of the rise in obesity since the late 1980s, but the resulting increase in medical expenditures offsets only a small portion of consumers’ savings from shopping at Supercenters.
Insiders and Outsiders in Research on Machine Learning and Society.

A subset of machine learning research intersects with societal issues, including fairness, accountability and transparency, as well as the use of machine learning for social good. In this work, we analyze the scholars contributing to this research at the intersection of machine learning and society through the lens of the sociology of science. By analyzing the authorship of all machine learning papers posted to arXiv, we show that compared to researchers from overrepresented backgrounds (defined by gender and race/ethnicity), researchers from underrepresented backgrounds are more likely to conduct research at this intersection than other kinds of machine learning research. This state of affairs leads to contention between two perspectives on insiders and outsiders in the scientific enterprise: outsiders being those outside the group being studied, and outsiders being those who have not participated as researchers in an area historically. This contention manifests as an epistemic question on the validity of knowledge derived from lived experience in machine learning research, and predicts boundary work that we see in a real-world example.
Medial prefrontal cortex and hippocampal activity differentially contribute to ordinal and temporal context retrieval during sequence memory.

Remembering sequences of events defines episodic memory, but retrieval can be driven by both ordinality and temporal contexts. Whether these modes of retrieval operate at the same time or not remains unclear. Theoretically, medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) confers ordinality, while the hippocampus (HC) associates events in gradually changing temporal contexts. Here, we looked for evidence of each with BOLD fMRI in a sequence task that taxes both retrieval modes. To test ordinal modes, items were transferred between sequences but retained their position (e.g., AB 3 ). Ordinal modes activated mPFC, but not HC. To test temporal contexts, we examined items that skipped ahead across lag distances (e.g., AB D ). HC, but not mPFC, tracked temporal contexts. There was a mPFC and HC by retrieval mode interaction. These current results suggest that the mPFC and HC are concurrently engaged in different retrieval modes in support of remembering when an event occurred.
Regulation of epigenetic processes by non-coding RNAs

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have emerged as important regulators of a variety of cellular mechanisms, including chromatin organization. Many ncRNAs play an integral role in modifying chromatin structure by recruiting and directing chromatin-modifying protein complexes to target genomic loci. A subset of ncRNAs is also involved in recruiting chromatin-modifying complexes that impart stable epigenetic marks onto the chromatin, which are propagated through cell divisions and/or generations. The placement of these epigenetic marks by ncRNAs leads to changes in chromatin structure and organization, which affects the accessibility of DNA by transcription factors, leading to the activation or repression of the transcription of target DNA loci. Here, we discuss the role of ncRNAs in various epigenetic processes such as the maintenance and formation of pericentric heterochromatin in both S. pombe and mammals, dosage compensation in both Drosophila and mammals, transgenerational epigenetic inheritance in which small interfering RNAs lead to stable gene silencing that is propagated to future generations in C. elegans, and finally, centromere inheritance.
In-Situ Growth of High TC Thin Films

A high pressure reactive evaporation process and a high pressure reactive sputtering process have been developed for the growth of high quality thin films of YBa2Cu3O7. Both techniques, when used with heated substrates, are effective in the formation of the 123 phase in-situ during the film growth. With reactive evaporation only a cooldown anneal in a higher pressure oxygen ambient is necessary to obtain good superconducting properties. For the reactive sputtering process, the best results are obtained with either a substrate temperature of 720–770 C during growth, or lower temperatures during growth and a brief, post growth, rapid thermal anneal. Fully epitaxial growth has been achieved with single crystal MgO substrates. The resultant films, which can be quite smooth and uniform, have been patterned to micron and submicron dimensions and the transport properties of these microstructures have been examined.
The tumor suppressor p53 guides GluA1 homeostasis through Nedd4‐2 during chronic elevation of neuronal activity

Chronic activity perturbation in neurons can trigger homeostatic mechanisms to restore the baseline function. Although the importance and dysregulation of neuronal activity homeostasis has been implicated in neurological disorders such as epilepsy, the complete signaling by which chronic changes in neuronal activity initiate the homeostatic mechanisms is unclear. We report here that the tumor suppressor p53 and its signaling are involved in neuronal activity homeostasis. Upon chronic elevation of neuronal activity in primary cortical neuron cultures, the ubiquitin E3 ligase, murine double minute- 2 (Mdm2), is phosphorylated by the kinase Akt. Phosphorylated Mdm2 triggers the degradation of p53 and subsequent induction of a p53 target gene, neural precursor cell expressed developmentally down-regulated gene 4-like (Nedd4-2). Nedd4-2 encodes another ubiquitin E3 ligase. We identified glutamate receptor subunit 1 (GluA1), subunit of alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptors as a novel substrate of Nedd4-2. The regulation of GluA1 level is known to be crucial for neuronal activity homeostasis. We confirmed that, by pharmacologically inhibiting Mdm2-mediated p53 degradation or genetically reducing Nedd4-2 in a mouse model, the GluA1 ubiquitination and down-regulation induced by chronically elevated neuronal activity are both attenuated. Our findings demonstrate the first direct function of p53 in neuronal homeostasis and elucidate a new mechanism by which cortical neurons respond to chronic activity perturbation.
FaceL: Facile Face Labeling

FaceL is a simple and fun face recognition system that labels faces in live video from an iSight camera or webcam. FaceL presents a window with a few controls and annotations displayed over the live video feed. The annotations indicate detected faces, positions of eyes, and after training, the names of enrolled people. Enrollment is video based, capturing many images per person. FaceL does a good job of distinguishing between a small set of people in fairly uncontrolled settings and incorporates a novel incremental training capability. The system is very responsive, running at over 10 frames per second on modern hardware. FaceL is open source and can be downloaded from http://pyvision.sourceforge.net/facel .
Complex Decision Making and Cognitive Aging Call for Enhanced Protection of Seniors Contemplating Reverse Mortgages

This article explains what reverse mortgages are and how they work. It also analyzes who could potentially benefit from them, but why this type of loan is so problematic for many seniors. The article then considers steps that can be taken to improve the effectiveness of current federal rules and counseling protocols to enable seniors to make well-informed decisions keeping in mind cognitive barriers and the complicated nature of this loan product.Because many seniors may not be noticing the high costs associated with federally insured reverse mortgages, many believe these loans are now the product of choice for “predatory lending.”
Analysis of current conditions after basic elimination of malaria in Changning

Changning County met the basic standards for elimination of malaria in 1993. A total of 268 cases was reported from 1994 to 2008,of which 197 were vivax malaria (73.51%),62 were falciparum malaria (23.13%),1 was mixed infection (0.37%),and 8 could not be differentiated (2.99%);43 were autochthonous infection (16.04%) and 225 were imported (83.96%). Monitoring of Anopheles vectors identified 18 kinds of anopheles,such as Anopheles sinensis,Anopheles kunmingensis,and Anopheles minimus. A. sinensis was the main vector found (72.56%). County Changning had a consistently low incidence of malaria epidemics,most of which were imported,but autochthonous infections tended to increase. Controls on migrant workers and monitoring of the population density of Anopheles vectors should be enhanced.
MicroRNAs downregulated in neuropathic pain regulate MeCP2 and BDNF related to pain sensitivity

Nerve injury induces chronic pain and dysregulation of microRNAs in dorsal root ganglia (DRG). Several downregulated microRNAs are predicted to target Mecp2. MECP2 mutations cause Rett syndrome and these patients report decreased pain perception. We confirmed MeCP2 upregulation in DRG following nerve injury and repression of MeCP2 by miRNAs in vitro. MeCP2 regulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and downregulation of MeCP2 by microRNAs decreased Bdnf in vitro. MeCP2 T158A mice exhibited reduced mechanical sensitivity and Mecp2-null and MeCP2 T158A mice have decreased Bdnf in DRG. MeCP2-mediated regulation of Bdnf in the DRG could contribute to altered pain sensitivity.
Interpretive Fallibility and the Psychoanalytic Dialogue

The concept of the analyst's interpretive fallibility is utilized to understand and organize the ways in which contemporary psychoanalytic theory has expanded on Freud's notions regarding the hypot...
Natural Selection Is a Sorting Process: What Does That Mean?

To learn why natural selection acts only on existing variation, students categorize processes as either creative or sorting. This activity helps students confront the misconception that adaptations evolve because species need them.
Arterial Ischemic Stroke Prospective Study

Investigators from Departments of Paediatric Neurology, Bristol Royal Hospital for Children, the Institute of Child Health, London, and other centers in the UK, conducted a prospective population-based study of 96 children aged 29 days to 16 years with radiologically confirmed arterial ischemic stroke (AIS) occurring over a 1-year period (July 2008 to June 2009) in southern England.
1,6-Di-bromo-naphthalen-2-ol methanol monosolvate.

The naphthol-containing mol­ecule of the title compound, C10H6Br2O·CH3OH, crystallized as a methanol monosolvate and is planar to within 0.069 (1) A for all non-H atoms. In the crystal, mol­ecules are linked by two pairs of O—H⋯O hydrogen bonds, involving the methanol mol­ecule, forming dimer-like arrangements. The crystal structure is further stabilized by π–π stacking [centroid–centroid distance = 3.676 (2) A] and Br⋯Br inter­actions [3.480 (4) and 3.786 (1) A], forming a three-dimensional structure.
Building a security practices evaluation framework

Software development teams need guidance on choosing security practices so they can develop code securely. The academic and practitioner literature on software development security practices is large, and expanding. However, published empirical evidence for security practice use in software development is limited and fragmented, making choosing appropriate practices difficult. Measurement frameworks offer a tool for collecting and comparing software engineering data. The goal of this work is to aid software practitioners in evaluating security practice use in the development process by defining and validating a measurement framework for software development security practice use and outcomes. We define the Security Practices Evaluation Framework (SP-EF), a measurement framework for software development security practices. We plan to evaluate the framework and ontology on historical data and industrial projects.
Charge-Assisted Hydrogen Bonding and Other Noncovalent Interactions in the Self-Assembly of the Organometallic Building Block [(η6-hydroquinone)Rh(P(OPh)3)2]+ with a Range of Counteranions

The synthesis and X-ray structures are reported for [(η6-hydroquinone)Rh(P(OPh)3)2]+X- (X = BF4, ClO4, SbF6, OTf, OTs, OPf), [(η6-resorcinol)Rh(P(OPh)3)2]+BF4-, and [(η6-4,4‘-biphenol)Rh(P(OPh)3)2]...
Distribution of222Rn over the north Pacific: Implications for continental influences

The atmospheric distribution of222Rn over the north Pacific is simulated with a three-dimensional chemical tracer model using meteorological input from the NASA-GISS general circulation model (4°×5° resolution). Radon-222 (half-life 3.8 days) is a tracer of continental air. Model results are in good agreement with measurements from ships and aircraft. Strong Asian influence is found throughout the tropospheric column over the north Pacific in spring, reflecting a combination of frequent convection over the continent, strong westerly winds at altitude, and subsidence over the ocean. In summer, the upper troposphere over the north Pacific is heavily affected by deep convection over China; however, Asian influences at the surface are then at their yearly minimum. In winter, strong Asian influence is found near the surface but not at high altitudes. Transport of American air over the Pacific is important only at low latitudes. American sources account for 11% of total222Rn in the model at Midway, 30% at Mauna Loa and 59% at Oahu. Results for Hawaii indicate two seasonal peaks of American influence, one in summer and one in winter. The tropical western Pacific is particularly remote from continental influences year round.
A Theoretical Perspective on Coping with Stigma.

Stigmatized people have a vast array of responses to stressors resulting from their devalued social status, including emotional, cognitive, biological, and behavioral responses. This article uses existing theory and research on general stress and coping responses to describe responses to stigma-related stressors and to discuss the adaptiveness of these responses.