cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Application of Preclinical Toxicogenomics for Predicting and Understanding Drug‐Induced Toxicity and Metabolism

The pharmaceutical industry is challenged by high rates of attrition during development because of preclinical and clinical toxicities that are not adequately predicted using current preclinical testing paradigms. Large-scale gene expression profiling technologies, such as toxicogenomics, are being applied preclinically during drug discovery and lead optimization to diagnose and predict drug-induced effects. When used together with classical pharmacokinetic parameters, toxicogenomics can provide an understanding of the pathways (phases I and II) of drug metabolism induced by drug treatment. This chapter focuses on the application of toxicogenomics in drug discovery for the prediction and mechanistic understanding of drug-induced toxicity, as well as understanding mechanisms of drug metabolism for small-molecule therapeutics. Keywords: biomarker; predictive toxicology; toxicogenomics; drug metabolism; mechanisms
A computer-tailored intervention to promote informed decision making for prostate cancer screening among African American men

African American men experience a disproportionate burden of prostate cancer (CaP) morbidity and mortality. National screening guidelines advise men to make individualized screening decisions through a process termed informed decision making (IDM). In this pilot study, a computer-tailored decision-aid designed to promote IDM was evaluated using a pre-/posttest design. African American men aged 40 years and older were recruited from a variety of community settings (n = 108). At pretest, 43% of men reported having made a screening decision; at posttest 47% reported this to be the case (p = .39). Significant improvements were observed between pre- and posttest on scores of knowledge, decision self-efficacy, and decisional conflict. Men were also more likely to want an active role in decision making after using the tool. These results suggest that use of a computer-tailored decision aid is a promising strategy to promote IDM for CaP screening among African American men.
An iterative knowledge-based scoring function to predict protein-ligand interactions: II. Validation of the scoring function.

We have developed an iterative knowledge-based scoring function (ITScore) to describe protein-ligand inter- actions. Here, we assess ITScore through extensive tests on native structure identification, binding affinity prediction, and virtual database screening. Specifically, ITScore was first applied to a test set of 100 protein-ligand complexes constructed by Wang et al. (J Med Chem 2003, 46, 2287), and compared with 14 other scoring functions. The results show that ITScore yielded a high success rate of 82% on identifying native-like binding modes under the criterion of rmsd ≤2 A for each top-ranked ligand conformation. The success rate increased to 98% if the top five confor- mations were considered for each ligand. In the case of binding affinity prediction, ITScore also obtained a good correlation for this test set (R = 0.65). Next, ITScore was used to predict binding affinities of a second diverse test set of 77 protein-ligand complexes prepared by Muegge and Martin (J Med Chem 1999, 42, 791), and compared with four other widely used knowledge-based scoring functions. ITScore yielded a high correlation of R 2 = 0.65 (or R = 0.81) in the affinity prediction. Finally, enrichment tests were performed with ITScore against four target proteins using the compound databases constructed by Jacobsson et al. (J Med Chem 2003, 46, 5781). The results were compared with those of eight other scoring functions. ITScore yielded high enrichments in all four database screen- ing tests. ITScore can be easily combined with the existing docking programs for the use of structure-based drug design.
Statistical diagnostic and correction of a chemistry-transport model for the prediction of total column ozone

In this paper, we introduce a statistical method for examining and adjusting chemical-transport models. We illustrate the findings with total column ozone predictions, based on the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign 2- D (UIUC 2-D) chemical-transport model of the global atmo- sphere. We propose a general diagnostic procedure for the model outputs in total ozone over the latitudes ranging from 60 South to 60 North to see if the model captures some typi- cal patterns in the data. The method proceeds in two steps to avoid possible collinearity issues. First, we regress the mea- surements given by a cohesive data set from the SBUV(/2) satellite system on the model outputs with an autoregressive noise component. Second, we regress the residuals of this first regression on the solar flux, the annual cycle, the Antarc- tic or Arctic Oscillation, and the Quasi Biennial Oscillation. If the coefficients from this second regression are statistically significant, then they mean that the model did not simulate properly the pattern associated with these factors. Systematic anomalies of the model are identified using data from 1979 to 1995, and statistically corrected afterwards. The 1996- 2003 validation sample confirms that the combined approach yields better predictions than the direct UIUC 2-D outputs.
The Effect of Central and Peripheral Cues on Online Review Helpfulness: A Comparison between Functional and Expressive Products

Online customer reviews (OCR) have become an important part of online customers’ decision making. People also use OCR to get better understanding of the characteristics of the product and also learn about other customers’ experience with the product. Drawing upon Elaboration Likelihood Model, this research investigates the predictors of readership and helpfulness of OCR. Our findings show that longer reviews as well as those with extreme star ratings receive more readerships. Moreover, the amount of hedonic and utilitarian cues in a review and its sentiment significantly influence perceptions of online consumers regarding its helpfulness. We also show how product type moderates the effect of utilitarian and hedonic cues on helpfulness. We discuss the implications of our study and provide directions for future research.
Discussion of Some Basic Questions Concerning Path and Rate-Determining Step

The general nature of this has been outlined,92,94 and the essence is that of tunneling of electrons to an activated state produced by stretching of the ion-solvent bonds. The majority of the heat of activation is contributed by the latter.94 The often raised question as to why the symmetry factor has the value 1/2 can be answered as follows: It is not exactly 0.5 but the factors which determine β do make it in practice between about 0.4 and 0.6.* Thus, in the usual interpretation of the symmetry factor,62 a variation in the applied potential produces a relative shift of the potential energy curves with respect to each other; this shift results in a change in the free energies of activation for the forward and backward reactions which is related to the slopes of the potential energy curves at the point of intersection. More precisely, $$\beta = \frac{{{m_i}}}{{{m_i} + {m_f}}}$$ where m i and m f are the slopes of the potential energy curves of initial and final state, respectively, at the point of intersection.
WORK GROUPS AND KNOWLEDGE SHARING IN A GLOBAL ORGANIZATION.

A field study of 182 work groups in a Fortune 500 multi-national corporation suggests why knowledge sharing outside of the team, rather than solely inside of the team, can enhance group effectiveness. This research indicates that global organizations can benefit when work group members share knowledge with external sources, non-team employees inside the division, non-team employees outside the division, and the customer. Based on ideas about external group activity, I hypothesized and found that knowledge content (measured as general overviews, specific requirements, analytical techniques, progress reports, and project results) shared through member relationships outside of the group, rather than the mere amount of non-team communication, was related to higher performance. Furthermore, based on ideas about social network structure, I hypothesized and found that the interaction of external knowledge sharing and work group distribution (i.e., members in different geographic locations), as well as the intera...
RECOGNITION OF PARENTS' VOICES BY YOUNG CLIFF SWALLOWS

Cliff Swallow (Hirundo pyrrhonota) chicks were played calls of parents and unrelated (control) adults at 9 and 18 days of age. Younger chicks showed no difference in the frequency of their antiphonal begging calls to parental vs. control calls. The older, near- fledging chicks, however, responded significantly more to parental calls than to control calls: 78% of their total antiphonal calls were in response to parental playback calls. In these older chicks, the degree of preference correlated with the measured acoustic differences between the parent and control calls. The results indicate that Cliff Swallow chicks are able to rec- ognize their parents by voice before they leave the nest. Offspring recognition of parents is discussed as it relates to the evolution of parent-offspring recognition systems in general. Received 12 September 1984, accepted 5 January 1985.
Modeling, analyzing, and consistency checking privacy requirements using eddy

Eddy is a privacy requirements specification language that privacy analysts can use to express requirements over data practices; to collect, use, transfer and retain personal and technical information. The language uses a simple SQL-like syntax to express whether an action is permitted or prohibited, and to restrict those statements to particular data subjects and purposes. Eddy also supports the ability to express modifications on data, including perturbation, data append, and redaction. The Eddy specifications are compiled into Description Logic to automatically detect conflicting requirements and to trace data flows within and across specifications. Conflicts are highlighted, showing which rules are in conflict (expressing prohibitions and rights to perform the same action on equivalent interpretations of the same data, data subjects, or purposes), and what definitions caused the rules to conflict. Each specification can describe an organization's data practices, or the data practices of specific components in a software architecture.
Snus undermines quit attempts but not abstinence: a randomised clinical trial among US smokers

Background Observational studies and a few clinical trials suggest that use of low nitrosamine smokeless tobacco (snus) can facilitate smoking cessation. To better understand the real-world impact of snus on smoking behaviour, a large-scale, long-term clinical trial of naturalistic snus use among smokers is needed. Study design A nationwide clinical trial compared abstinence outcomes among smokers who were randomised to receive free samples of snus versus not. Participants (N=1236) were recruited throughout the US and assessed for 1 year following a 6-week naturalistic sampling period, with high retention throughout. Primary outcomes included self-reported quit attempts, floating abstinence (any 7-day period of non-smoking) and 7-day point-prevalence abstinence at 6 months and 12 months. Secondary outcomes were changes in smoking, motivation and confidence to quit and adverse events. No tobacco industry support was provided. Results Within snus group, 82% used at least once, and 16% were using regularly at end of sampling period. Compared to control participants, smokers in the snus group were less likely to make any quit attempt (RR=0.83; 95% CI 0.70 to 1.00), and any 24 h quit attempt (RR=0.77; 95% CI 0.63 to 0.95). There were no group differences on any measure of abstinence. Conclusions Provision of snus in a naturalistic context resulted in minimal uptake, and as a whole, undermined quit attempts and did not increase smoking abstinence. Results do not support the unguided, free provision of snus among smokers not motivated to quit as a means to facilitate quit attempts. Trial registration number NCT01509586, Results.
Advances in ophthalmic plastic, reconstructive and orbital surgery in Hawaii

Advances in ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery continue to be made in the state of Hawaii. A new technique of dacryocystorhinostomy using the endoscope and the pulsed Holmium: YAG laser as well as a subconjunctival endoscopic assisted approach to orbital surgery for orbital decompression is described. The integrated hydroxyapatite implant replacing the enucleated eye gives excellent postoperative extraocular motility.
Remote Transaction Commit: Centralizing Software Transactional Memory Commits

Software Transactional Memory (STM) has recently emerged as a promising synchronization abstraction for multicore architectures. State-of-the-art STM algorithms, however, suffer from performance challenges due to contention and spinning on locks during the transaction commit phase. In this paper, we introduce Remote Transaction Commit (or RTC), a mechanism for executing commit phases of STM transactions. RTC dedicates server cores to execute transactional commit phases on behalf of application threads. This approach has two major benefits. First, it decreases the overheads of spinning on locks during commit, such as the number of cache misses, blocking of lock holders, and CAS operations. Second, it enables exploiting the benefits of coarse-grained locking algorithms (simple and fast lock acquisition, reduced false conflicts) and bloom filter-based algorithms (concurrent execution of independent transactions). Our experimental study on a 64-core machine with four sockets shows that RTC solves the problem of performance degradation due to spin locking on both micro-benchmarks (red-black trees), and macro-benchmarks (STAMP), especially when the commit phase is relatively long and when thread contention increases.
Synergy: karyotypes and mutations in CLL.

In this issue of Blood, Herling et al present the first large, prospective clinical trial that integrates cytogenetic, next-generation sequencing (NGS), clinical, and laboratory data into a prognostic analysis.1 They demonstrate that karyotypic complexity is an independent prognostic factor of survival in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). They are also the first to show that mutations in KRAS or POT1 affect treatment response and survival after chemoimmunotherapy. Their results provide a strong rationale for incorporating the results of karyotypic and NGS analyses in clinical trial design and in routine practice.
Development and Psychometric Evaluation of the College Eating and Drinking Behaviors Scale in US College Students

Understanding factors that are linked with harmful drinking are important to inform prevention and intervention efforts. Intentionally restricting eating before planned drinking is likely one factor with some empirical support. The purpose of this study was to develop and evaluate psychometric properties of the College Eating and Drinking Behaviors Scale (CEDBS) in US College Students. The CEDBS is a self-report measure aimed at assessing disordered eating behaviors students intentionally engage in before consuming alcohol. Exploratory factor analysis identified a three factor (Quicker Intoxication, Offset Calories, and Alternative Methods) solution that explained 68.63 % of cumulative variance and internal consistencies were at or above .92 for each subscale. All subscales were positively correlated with typical weekly alcohol consumption and alcohol-related negative consequences. Results provide preliminary evidence supporting the potential of CEDBS as a measure for assessing eating behaviors that may exacerbate harmful drinking and related negative consequences.
Expanded Recognition in Written Laws of Ancillary Federal Court Powers: Supplementing the Supplemental Jurisdiction Statute

Ancillary federal district court powers embody more than adjudicatory authority over "factually interdependent" civil claims initially presented within cases or controversies. Ancillary powers are used to facilitate civil case settlement agreements encompassing claims never presented for adjudication, as well as to adjudicate some disputes over settlement agreements long after final judgments. While certain ancillary powers are now recognized in the "supplemental jurisdiction" statute, 28 U.S.C. ý 1367, the range of the statute is quite limited. It chiefly codifies earlier precedents on pendent and ancillary jurisdiction that primarily address initial ancillary adjudicatory authority over state law civil claims without independent jurisdictional bases that arise from the same "common nucleus of operative facts" as the civil claims having independent subject matter jurisdictional bases. Section 1367 should provide clarity for all federal court ancillary powers, eliminating much uncertainty and confusion. Section 1367 should be amended to encompass more fully ancillary adjudicatory and nonadjudicatory federal court authority. This task is facilitated by the 1994 decision in Kokkonen v. Guardian Life Insurance Company of America. A reformulated statute should speak for the first time to the ancillary nonadjudicatory powers necessary for courts to function successfully, including management, vindication, and certain enforcement powers. And, it should better recognize the differences between initial and later ancillary adjudicatory powers over nonfederal civil claims that are factually related to federal civil claims. In the absence of Congressional action, judicial decisions should better recognize and differentiate the varying forms of ancillary federal district court powers.
DEMONS: an integrated framework for examining associations between physiology and self-reported affect tied to depressive symptoms

Depression is a prevalent and debilitating disorder among college students. Advances in mobile technology afford the opportunity to collect heterogeneous data while people are in their natural settings. The aim of the current paper is to propose an integrated framework, DEMONS (DEpression MONitoring Study), for combining passive and active data sources using a wearable sensor and a smartphone application. The ability to combine passive and active longitudinal data with mobile devices allows for better understanding of the temporal relations between self-reported affect and physiological variables (e.g., heart rate variability) linked to depressive symptoms. Adoption of the proposed framework will provide crucial information regarding the development and maintenance of depression in college students, as well as increased opportunities for early detection and intervention.
Automatic Frequency Response of Frequency-Modulated Generators Using the Bessel Null Method

This paper describes a Bessel null technique to measure the frequency response of a frequency-modulated rf carrier and a program to automate frequency response measurements of signal generators with output frequencies from 0.450 to 2000 MHz. The measurements obtained using this technique are more accurate than those obtained by a highly trained technician using a manual system. Automated measurement of this process is desirable since the manual method is subject to the following problems: (1) excessive time, (2) error in finding the null, and (3) lack of assurance that the null is the first Bessel null. Automated measurements can be performed using a system controller, a spectrum analyzer, a function generator, and a voltmeter (all of which are compatible and control1ab1e remotely). The nonlinear relationship between modulating signal amplitude and the center frequency amplitude of the carrier is a major obstacle to automated measurement. This problem was solved by obtaining an approximate formula for this nonlinear curve. Assurance that the null found is the first Bessel null is provided by the analysis of the frequency response of the test signal generator as displayed on the spectrum analyzer.
Method of internal overvoltage protection and current limit for a lateral PNP transistor formed by polysilicon self-aligned emitter and base, with extended collector

An internal overvoltage protection and current limiting function has been integrated into a self-aligned lateral PNP output device of a high-voltage BiCMOS process. The PNP is formed utilizing existing diffusions. Self-protection is achieved by integrating a JFET junction field effect transistor mechanism into the lateral PNP which interrupts base current at a predetermined collector-base voltage. The P field diffusion forms the extended collector, which acts as the gate of a JFET. The channel of the JFET, which is formed in the N-epitaxial layer, electrically connects the intrinsic base to the external base contact. This internal protection mechanism eliminates the need for external devices which provide the same function, but would add cost and unnecessary power dissipation. Devices which electrically exhibited the internal protection mechanism were simulated and fabricated. >
Examining the evolution of networks based on lists in Twitter

In this research we analyze the evolution of online social networks based on the “List” feature in Twitter. Lists are connected implicitly by virtue of sharing common users, and the users are also connected implicitly by being added to the same lists. We focus on the evolution of these implicit networks in Twitter with users and their lists, and attempt to understand how triadic closures occur among users via lists. Using a dataset collected over a period of 6 months we show that closures exhibit many different patterns. We also analyze the pattern of dissolution of connections and show that it is closely related to the nature of the triadic structures and the roles of the nodes in the information sharing network.
Binder-Jet Printing of Fine Stainless Steel Powder with Varied Final Density

Binder jetting is an additive manufacturing process that produces weak porous parts that are strengthened through sintering and/or infiltration. This article reports on two different methods of preparing fine 316 stainless steel powder and their impact on the final sintered density and dimensions relative to direct printing into <22 micron powder . The first method uses agglomerates of fine powder. In the second, nylon 12 powders are mixed with the steel powder as a fugitive space holder to increase porosity. Sintered density and sintering shrinkage of agglomerate material are shown to vary with the density of the spread powder bed. Nevertheless, with added nylon, the shrinkage correlates with the shrinkage of the base steel powder, whereas the density depends on the quantity of the nylon. Thus, it is possible to create varied sintered density with compatible shrinkage levels—a key step toward creating binder-jetting systems with spatially controlled porosity.
Risk of Skin Rash in Proteasome Inhibitor Bortezomib: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract Abstract 5120 Background: Bortezomib (VELCADE) is the first proteasome inhibitor to be approved by regulatory agencies for treatment of multiple myeloma and mantle cell lymphoma. Maculopapular rash is a common, adverse event to bortezomib. Because the summary incidence of bortezomib-induced skin rash is not well known, we performed a systematic literature review and meta-analysis to determine the incidence and overall risk. Methods: We searched PubMed and Web of Science databases and abstracts presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology and The American Society of Hematology annual meetings from 1998 to July 2011, to identify relevant clinical studies. Eligible studies included prospective clinical phase II and phase III trials, with data on the incidence of rash in patients taking 1.3mg/m2, 1.5mg/m2, or 1.6 mg/m2 of bortezomib twice weekly for two weeks followed by one week off, in a 21-day cycle. The incidence of rash and relative risk (RR) were calculated using random-effects or fixed-effects model, depending on the heterogeneity of included studies. Results: A total of 2,469 patients with various hematologic and solid malignancies from 32 clinical trials were included for analysis. Among patients receiving bortezomib, the summary incidences of all-grade and high-grade rash were 18.8 % (95% CI: 14.9% to 23.5%) and 3.6 % (95% CI: 2.3% to 5.7%), respectively. We found no significant increase in rash incidence with higher doses of bortezomib. In addition, bortezomib was associated with an increased risk in both all grade (RR:19.703, 95% CI: 8.734 to 44.446, p Conclusion: Bortezomib is associated with a significant risk of developing rash. Management of bortezomib-induced rash is critical to prevent a negative effect on quality of life and dose modifications, both of which may affect clinical outcome. Disclosures: Wu: Onyx: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Pfizer: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Amgen: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Janssen: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Novartis: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Genentech: Speakers Bureau. Gerecitano: Millenium: Research Funding.
Abstract 485: Percutaneous Catheter-directed Local Thrombolysis of Arterial, Venous and Shunt Thrombus Using Tissue Plasminogen Activator in Critically-ill Children - A Single Center Experience

OBJECTIVE To retrospectively determine the success and complication of local catheter directed thrombolysis using recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rTPA) in critically ill children with acute arterial, venous or shunt thrombus. BACKGROUND Local catheter directed thrombolysis is a well-described treatment modality for thrombotic events in adults, with maximal thrombolytic effect and minimal systemic sequelae. However, this treatment option in life threatening thrombosis is not well defined in pediatrics. METHOD We report an observational study in a retrospective cohort (2008-2013) of 14 cases presenting with sudden life threatening thrombosis, necessitating immediate intervention. All patients had >95% vascular/shunt occlusion which was treated with percutaneous catheter-based procedure, and rTPA administration directly at site of thrombus. The efficacy, dosage, duration, additional endovascular intervention and complications of this approach are reported. RESULTS The median age was 1.7 months (range, 10 days - 29 years) and median weight was 4.4 kilograms (range, 2.2 - 101 kg). Nine (64%) patients presented with shunt (Sano or aorto-pulmonary) thrombosis, three (22%) with arterial thrombosis and two (14%) with venous thromboembolism. All patients received a local bolus of rTPA [median dose 0.24 mg/kg (range, 0.01 - 1.0 mg/kg)]. Eight (57%) received an additional infusion of rTPA [median dose 0.17 mg/kg/hr (range, 0.02 - 1.0 mg/kg/hr)] of varying duration [median 1.3 hours (range, 0.3 - 18 hours)]; one patient received a prior systemic bolus of rTPA. Anticoagulation was administered in 12 (86%) and supplementary endovascular intervention (balloon angioplasty and/or stenting) was done in 4 (28%) patients. Thrombolytic success (defined as >95% return of antegrade flow) was achieved in 13 (93%). No major bleeding or other serious complication directly related to this approach occurred. CONCLUSION Catheter-directed local thrombolysis with rTPA can be accomplished rapidly in critical thrombosis, as a pragmatic alternative to surgery. This approach can offer satisfactory short term palliation without significant complications and improve outcome in children with life threatening thrombosis.
Phase Coexistence in Insect Swarms.

Animal aggregations are visually striking, and as such are popular examples of collective behavior in the natural world. Quantitatively demonstrating the collective nature of such groups, however, remains surprisingly difficult. Inspired by thermodynamics, we applied topological data analysis to laboratory insect swarms and found evidence for emergent, material-like states. We show that the swarms consist of a core ``condensed'' phase surrounded by a dilute ``vapor'' phase. These two phases coexist in equilibrium, and maintain their distinct macroscopic properties even though individual insects pass freely between them. We further define a pressure and chemical potential to describe these phases, extending theories of active matter to aggregations of macroscopic animals and laying the groundwork for a thermodynamic description of collective animal groups.
Speech Comprehension: Stimulating Discussions at a Cocktail Party

When humans listen to speech, ongoing cortical oscillations entrain to the acoustic signal. New research demonstrates that electrically stimulating the brain in time with speech rhythm can improve intelligibility for speech in noise.
Etiologies of altered mental status in patients with presumed ethanol intoxication.

Abstract Background Altered mental status is a commonly evaluated problem in the ED. Ethanol intoxication is common, and prehospital history may bias emergency physicians to suspect this as the cause of altered mental status. Quantitative ethanol measurement can rapidly confirm the diagnosis, or if negative, prompt further evaluation. Our objective was to identify the etiologies of altered mental status in ED patients initially presumed to be intoxicated with ethanol but found to have negative quantitative ethanol levels. Methods This was a 5-year (2012–2016) electronic medical record review of ED patients presenting with altered mental status. Patients were included if they presented with presumed ethanol intoxication and had an initial ethanol concentration of zero. Etiologies of altered mental status were categorized into medical, traumatic, psychiatric, and drug-related causes. Results 29,322 patients presented during the study period with presumed alcohol intoxication, 1875 patients had negative ethanol levels. The etiology of altered mental status was due to illicit substances in 1337 patients (71%), psychiatric causes in 354 patients (19%), medical causes in 166 patients (9%) and trauma in 18 patients (1%). A total of 179 patients (10%) were admitted to the hospital; 19 patients (1%) to the ICU. Conclusions The presumptive diagnosis of ethanol intoxication in patients presenting to the ED with altered mental status was inaccurate in 5% of patients. The etiology of altered mental status was serious and required hospitalization in 10% of the cohort. Rapid assessment of quantitative ethanol levels should be performed, breathalyzers may be preferred over serum testing.
Nanotopography of biomaterials for controlling cancer cell function

Abstract: While numerous studies have been conducted to determine the role of nanoparticles in decreasing cancer cell functions, the impact of material nanotopographies on healthy and carcinoma lung and breast cell functions (such as adhesion, proliferation, apoptosis, morphology and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) secretion) has not been systematically studied. Recent studies have suggested that cancer cells can recognize and respond differently to nanotopographies compared to flat topographies. However, many of these studies have altered both material topography and chemistry, making it difficult to ascertain the influence of one property compared to the other. Studies presented in this chapter have created materials with similar chemistries but altered nanoscale topographies, allowing for the accurate assessment of the role of nanometer features on cancer cells. The role of nanoscale topographies in controlling various cell functions has been observed in an increasing number of studies on other cell lines for a wide range of tissue engineering applications. The relevant mechanism(s) behind these cell behaviors on nanostructured material surfaces has not been well understood, especially for lung and breast cancer cells. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) surfaces, with different topographies but the same chemistry, demonstrated the ability to selectively decrease lung and breast cancer cell functions. Specifically, in the present chapter, the correlation between material surface properties (including surface topography, surface chemistry, surface wettability, surface charge, and surface free energy) and cell functions is systematically discussed. In summary, this chapter will report on nanotopography-mediated cancer and healthy cell functions in relationship to surface properties and protein adsorption, depicting some possible clues behind topography-mediated cell functions important for regenerating healthy tissue and keeping cancerous tissue from returning after lung or breast tumor resection.
Prototyping for Architects: by Jane Burry and Mark Burry. Thames & Hudson, 2016. 272 Pages, $60.00 (hardcover)

In their book Prototyping for Architects, authors Jane and Mark Burry provide insight into the wide-ranging means, methods, and motivations for prototyping in the discipline of architecture. As par...
Substituent effects on the reduction potentials of benzalacetophenones (chalcones): Improved substituent constants for such correlations

Abstract The reduction potentials of a set of 23 monosubstituted and 7 disubstituted benzalacetophenones (chalcones) are linearly correlated considerably better with the σn values of van Bekkum, Verkade, and Wepster than with Hammett σ. Groups were found to exert the same effect upon the reduction potential irrespective of which ring they are located on. The data for monosubstituted benzalacetophenones can be used to predict the reduction potentials of disubstituted derivatives with good accuracy.
“And in he throng”: The Anti-Chivalric Chauceroticism of The Merchant’s Tale

In this chapter, Gust examines The Merchant’s Tale, another fabliau from The Canterbury Tales that raises difficult questions about the meaning and significance of Chaucerotics. By detailing the lewd sexual escapades of the grizzled knight January and his young bride May, Chaucer offers a shocking “anti-chivalric” story that forces the reader to consider their own complicity in the narrative’s eroticized voyeurism. With its graphic sexuality and resentful tone, The Merchant's Tale offers another boundary-pushing example of Chaucerotics that includes multiple sex scenes, love affairs that are both sanctioned and illicit, and perhaps the most explicit representation of sexual penetration in the entire Middle English literary corpus. These extraordinary features render this particular tale as being especially reminiscent of the generic requirements of classical literary pornography.
Lack of Validity of Standard Corrections for White Blood Cell Counts of Blood-contaminated Cerebrospinal Fluid in Infants

An evaluation of the validity in infants of standard computations for the correction of white cell counts in blood-contaminated cerebrospinal fluid (traumatic lumbar puncture) was undertaken. In 39 infants with significant blood contamination (greater than 10(4) red blood cells/microL) and no evidence of bacterial meningitis, both calculated corrections based on simultaneously obtained complete blood counts and estimated corrections based on average values resulted in overcorrection in a majority of cases (33 of 39 and 25 of 39, respectively). The mechanism of this overcorrection could not be defined. In eight infants with significant blood contamination and proven bacterial meningitis, correction computations normalized or overcorrected the white cell count in one case. It appears that standard computations frequently overcorrect white cell counts in blood-contaminated cerebrospinal fluid and that the magnitude of the overcorrection may obscure pathologic states in some cases.
A history of edema and its management.

Abstract The obvious disfigurement caused by clinically evident edema has been a matter of medical concern for ages. Most of the early writings on the subject (Sumerian, Babylonian, Egyptian, Greek) center on dropsy, its causes and management. While reference to the heart is made in the ancient texts, much of the focus is on the abdominal (ascitic) accumulation of fluid. The role of the heart and "dropsy of the chest" began to be differentiated and attract attention sometime by the end of the seventeenth century, and were well appreciated by the eighteenth century. By the beginning of the nineteenth century the reports of John Blackall and Richard Bright provided new insight by differentiating dropsy into that of cardiac and renal origins. The role of salt, initially measured and thought in terms of its anion chloride, began to be appreciated by the middle to late nineteenth century. Its mobilization, however, remained problematic. The "cure de dechloruration", which gained fame by the end of the nineteenth century, was not always a successful undertaking. The treatment of dropsy, which centered on augmenting secretions (diaphoretics, purgatives) or mechanical removal of body fluids (bleeding, leeching, lancing), remained a frustrating and chancy undertaking for much of the time that medicine has had to deal with it. Although mercury had been advocated as a diuretic in the sixteenth century, even the organic mercurials that were introduced after World War II were limited in their effectiveness. The discovery of sulfanilamide-induced sodium bicarbonate diuresis in the late 1940s was to provide the first step in the new age of clinically effective diuretics, which began in the 1950s with the introduction of chlorothiazide, the first orally effective agent to mobilize sodium chloride. The subsequent introduction of more potent diuretics was made possible by concurrent advances in renal physiology and the understanding of the sodium handling by the kidney.
Heart failure risk across the spectrum of ankle-brachial index: the ARIC study (Atherosclerosis Risk In Communities).

Abstract Objectives The aim of this study was to describe the relationship between ankle brachial index (ABI) and the risk for heart failure (HF). Background The ABI is a simple, noninvasive measure associated with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and death; however, the relationship between ABI and risk for HF is less well characterized. Methods Between 1987 and 1989 in the ARIC (Atherosclerosis Risk In Communities) study, an oscillometric device was used to measure blood pressure in a single upper and randomly chosen lower extremity to determine the ABI. Incident HF events were defined by the first hospitalization with an International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, code of 428.x through 2008. The risk for HF was assessed across the ABI range using restricted cubic splines and Cox proportional hazards models. Results ABI was available in 13,150 participants free from prevalent HF. Over a mean 17.7 years of follow-up, 1,809 incident HF events occurred. After adjustment for traditional HF risk factors, prevalent coronary heart disease, subclinical carotid atherosclerosis, and interim myocardial infarction, compared with an ABI of 1.01 to 1.40, participants with ABIs ≤0.90 were at increased risk for HF (hazard ratio: 1.40; 95% confidence interval: 1.12 to 1.74), as were participants with ABIs of 0.91 to 1.00 (hazard ratio: 1.36; 95% confidence interval: 1.17 to 1.59). Conclusions In a middle-age community cohort, an ABI ≤1.00 was significantly associated with an increased risk for HF, independent of traditional HF risk factors, prevalent coronary heart disease, carotid atherosclerosis, and interim myocardial infarction. Low ABI may reflect not only overt atherosclerosis but also pathologic processes in the development of HF beyond epicardial atherosclerotic disease and myocardial infarction alone. A low ABI, as a simple, noninvasive measure, may be a risk marker for HF.
DISTRIBUTED VOLUME RENDERING FOR SCALABLE HIGH-RESOLUTION DISPLAY ARRAYS

This work presents a distributed image-order volume rendering approach for scalable high-resolution displays. This approach preprocesses data into a conventional hierarchical structure which is distributed across the local storage of a distributed-memory cluster. The cluster is equipped with graphics cards capable of hardware accelerated texture rendering. The novel contribution of this work is its unique data management scheme that spans both GPU and CPU memory using a multi-level cache and distributed shared-memory system. Performance results show that the system scales as output resolution and cluster size increase. An implementation of this approach allows scientists to quasi-interactively visualize large volume datasets on scalable high-resolution
Anatomy and Biomechanics of the Menisci

The shape of the menisci and the orientation of the collagen fibers are optimal for weight bearing and shock absorption. The menisci are of clinical importance to knee biomechanics as they function to maintain knee joint stability and congruity, resist capsular and synovial impingement during knee motion, support the screw home mechanism, and distribute load over a large area of the articular surface. Because of these vital roles, an attempt should be made to save viable meniscus when performing knee surgery.
C–H Functionalization of Amines via Alkene-Derived Nucleophiles through Cooperative Action of Chiral and Achiral Lewis Acid Catalysts: Applications in Enantioselective Synthesis

Catalytic transformations of α-amino C–H bonds to afford valuable enantiomerically enriched α-substituted amines, entities that are prevalent in pharmaceuticals and bioactive natural products, have been developed. Typically, such processes are carried out under oxidative conditions and require precious metal-based catalysts. Here, we disclose a strategy for an enantioselective union of N-alkylamines and α,β-unsaturated compounds, performed under redox-neutral conditions, and promoted through concerted action of seemingly competitive Lewis acids, B(C6F5)3, and a chiral Mg–PyBOX complex. Thus, a wide variety of β-amino carbonyl compounds may be synthesized, with complete atom economy, through stereoselective reaction of an in situ-generated enantiomerically enriched Mg-enolate and an appropriate electrophile.
The Prospect of Electrochemical Technologies Advancing Worldwide Water Treatment.

ConspectusGrowing worldwide population, climate change, and decaying water infrastructure have all contributed to a need for a better water treatment and conveyance model. Distributed water treatment is one possible solution, which relies on the local treatment of water from various sources to a degree dependent on its intended use and, finally, distribution to local consumers. This distributed, fit-for-purpose water treatment strategy requires the development of new modular point-of-use and point-of-entry technologies to bring this idea to fruition. Electrochemical technologies have the potential to contribute to this vision, as they have several advantages over established water treatment technologies. Electrochemical technologies have the ability to simultaneously treat multiple classes of contaminants through the in situ production of chemicals at the electrode surfaces with low power and energy demands, thereby allowing the construction of compact, modular water treatment technologies that require li...
THE PATH OF LEAST RESISTANCE: A CASE OF METHAMPHETAMINE ASSOCIATED PULMONARY ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION AND SECUNDUM ATRIAL SEPTAL DEFECT MANIFESTING IN THE POSTPARTUM PERIOD

Methamphetamine use, known to cause oxidative stress and dysregulation of vascular tone, is increasingly seen in association with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). We present a case of methamphetamine-associated PAH with severe hypoxemia and right to left shunt from a secundum ASD in a
Reducing Stereotypes of Women in Technology Through Analysis of Videogame Blog Entries

In this paper we analyze some of the most frequent stereotypes about women found in videogames. One way to negate these beliefs is to look at real data. Since contemporary students prefer blog entries to hardcopy or longer articles, in this paper we examine some inaccurate but widely held beliefs found in the videogame industry and analyze blog entries that can be used to negate them. This idea grew out of a mixed-gender class in game programming at Northern Illinois University in Spring 2012.
Virtual visits for children, adolescents, and young adults with cancer.

6622Background: Children, adolescents, and young adults have rare cancers and standard-of-care treatment is commonly very aggressive. Virtual visits provide include many of the nuances of face-to f...
Metal open-cell foams with periodic topology fabricated by spark plasma sintering

Abstract A novel manufacturing approach to controlling the pore structure of metal open-cell foams has been conceptually demonstrated based on a periodic arrangement of high temperature porogens (a.k.a. space-holders). A process integrating structured porogen replication and spark plasma sintering (SPS) was developed to fabricate metal open-cell foams exhibiting increased control over the pore size, shape, and position. A sacrificial porogen template constructed of commercially available copper spheres arranged in a hexagonal close-packed pattern was co-sintered with nickel-titanium (NiTi) powder using SPS and subsequently leached using nitric acid. The repeatability of the foam fabrication process was investigated by characterizing the density, pore structure, and mechanical properties of the resultant open-cell foams. Spatially, the foams displayed uniform, well-replicated pore structures with a high degree of interconnectivity. During compression testing the open-cell foams exhibited unexpected brittle behavior with a high variability in ultimate strength, believed to be caused by the initiation and inter-particulate propagation of cracks through the matrix leading to sudden specimen failure.
The metabolic time line of pancreatic cancer: Opportunities to improve early detection of adenocarcinoma.

Abstract Background A reliable biomarker to detect pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) continues to be elusive. With employing metabolomics we hypothesize that a broader analysis of systemic blood can differentiate different stages of PDAC. Methods Patients undergoing pancreatic resection had plasma samples grouped by diagnosis and assayed with mass spectrometry. 10 per group [neuroendocrine (PNET), intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN), localized PDAC, locally advanced PDAC, and metastatic] were analyzed to assess if metabolites could delineation different stages of adenocarcinoma. Results Of the 215 metabolites measured, four had a stronger correlation to disease burden than CA19-9. However, none of these metabolites differentiated stepwise progression in malignancy. Principal component analysis identified five metabolic components. Each cancer cohort was characterized by a unique combination of components, two components were predictors of PDCA stages. Conclusions Enhanced metabolomic analysis identified metabolic pathways that may assist in differentiating PDCA stages that do not occur in a linear stepwise progression.
They Lynched Mexican-Americans Too: A Question of Anglo Colorism:

The act of lynching in the United States was in fact a form of domestic terrorism perpetrated against darker-skinned Americans. Historians have been pressed to acknowledge the lynching of African-A...
Covalent attachment of resveratrol to stainless steel toward the development of a resveratrol‐releasing bare‐metal stent

Herein, we describe the covalent attachment of resveratrol, a naturally occurring antioxidant, to the surface of stainless-steel as a model for designing a novel bare-metal stent to treat coronary artery disease. Resveratrol has been shown to reduce oxidative stress in dysfunctional endothelial cells, and stimulate arterial healing. Resveratrol treatments, however, are limited by low water solubility, such that a localized delivery to the site of arterial narrowing via a coated stent presents a promising strategy for improving stent outcomes. Our attachment strategy utilizes zirconium vapor deposition to lay down a thin layer of zirconium oxide with labile hydrocarbon groups at the surface. Resveratrol can displace these hydrocarbons in aprotic solvent to afford a covalently attached layer of resveratrol. We evaluated the release of resveratrol under a range of pH levels, including physiological conditions (pH = 7.4 and 37 °C). Furthermore, we established that endothelial cells grown on a resveratrol-bound surface release elevated nitric oxide levels compared to controls, a key endothelial signaling molecule responsible for arterial health. These results are promising toward the development of a resveratrol-coated bare-metal stent to improve patient outcomes.