cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Antibodies to PCSK9: a superior way to lower LDL cholesterol?

### Effect of a Monoclonal Antibody to PCSK9 on LDL Cholesterol Stein et al New Eng J Med . 2012;366:1108–1118. Lowering of LDL cholesterol, predominantly accomplished clinically by statins, is one of the key components of both the prevention and medical management of coronary atherosclerosis; however, additional or alternative cholesterol lowering agents are needed for patients who fail to achieve goals or have adverse effects on statins. Owing to relatively rapid translation of basic science research on a novel regulatory pathway of the LDL receptor by PCSK9, a new class of such drugs with a different mode of action, and potentially better tolerance and less off-target effects may be just over the horizon. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9 (PCSK9) binds to LDL receptors, resulting in their accelerated degradation and increased LDL cholesterol levels. In a recent New England Journal of Medicine article, Stein et al reported the use of a monoclonal antibody (REGN727) to PCSK9 with the goal of lowering LDL cholesterol levels in 3 randomized double-blind placebo controlled phase I studies.1 The first 2 studies were single-dose escalation studies performed in healthy volunteers, 1 by the intravenous and the other by the subcutaneous route, and each led to dose-dependent reductions in LDL cholesterol levels (28%–65% and 32%–46%, respectively) that were rapid and prolonged. The third study was a multiple-dose escalation study, with drug delivered subcutaneously on days 1, 29, and 43, performed in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) and non-FH receiving atorvastatin and a small group of 10 patients with non-FH on a modified diet alone (baseline LDL cholesterol, >130 mg per deciliter [3.4 mmol per liter]). In statin-treated FH and non-FH patients, subcutaneous REGN727 lowered LDL cholesterol levels an additional 40% to 60%, depending on dose. Interestingly, REGN727 lowered LDL cholesterol levels by a similar degree in non-FH patients not taking a statin compared to those taking a statin. These studies strongly suggest PCSK9 inhibition as a promising …
Immigration to Egypt

Abstract With more than three million Egyptians abroad, Egypt is always regarded in the migration literature as a labor-sending country. Hundreds of articles and books were written on Egypt as a sending country, while few articles regarded Egypt as a receiving country. This paper is an attempt to shed light on the role of Egypt as a country of immigration, rather than emigration. Since most of the immigrant populations in Egypt are refugees, the main focus of this paper is the exploration of refugee communities in Egypt and their socioeconomic, juridical, and political situation. Key gaps in the literature are also identified.
Multi Seed Authentication Using S/Key Scheme

Although using both user name and password is predominantly the main solution for online authentication, it has several drawbacks such as user necessity to memorize different complex passwords, the need to renew password periodically, and the possibility of being victim of spear phishing or social engineering. Most importantly, many users end up saving their passwords in plain text file that could potentially be exploited. In this paper we propose a new method for web applications to enhance user authentication that is less dependent on end users' memory of passwords. Our approach is to split the login process into two phases, identification phase and authentication phase. Both phases will depend mainly on multiple counts of random numbers to identify and authenticate the user. In this paper, we discussed our proposed method in section III. Section IV detailed our experiment and also analyzed the effectiveness of the proposed method based on the simulation of a hypothesized corporate environment in section V.
A novel laser ultrasound transducer using candle soot carbon nanoparticles

Laser ultrasound provides a useful method to generate high frequency, broadband and high intensity acoustic waves. In this study, we demonstrated a novel optoacoustic transducer with high-energy conversion efficiency by using candle soot nanoparticles polydimethylsiloxane (CSPs-PDMS) composite. Carbon nanoparticles are used because of their excellent properties of light absorption and heat transfer. The mean diameter of collected candle soot carbon nanoparticles is about 40 nm, and the light absorption ratio at 532 nm wavelength is up to 96.24%. The prototyped CSPs-PDMS composite laser ultrasound transducer was excited by laser pulses, and the acoustic beam profile was measured and compared with Field II simulation results. Energy conversion coefficient and −6 dB frequency bandwidth of CSPs-PDMS composite laser ultrasound transducer were measured to be 4.41 × 10−3 and 21 MHz, respectively. The unprecedented laser ultrasound transduction performance using CSNPs-PDMS nano-composites is promising for a broad range of ultrasound therapy and non-destructively testing applications.
The Neighborhood Hyperlocal: New kid on the block or a chip off the old one?

Closure of local newspapers and other community weeklies across the United States has severely affected local news coverage, leading concerned citizens and journalists to start hyperlocal news sites in their neighborhoods. Similar to community weeklies, these sites focus on a small, geographically defined area and are usually created to fill a certain gap in news coverage. Few studies, however, reveal much about these sites especially in the United States, including information about those who work for them and whether they are a harbinger of new forms journalism or simply reflections of traditional media. This study examined the social characteristics of those who work in these sites, their perceptions of journalistic behaviors they follow when working with user-generated content and their attitudes towards user-generated content within the theoretical framework of hierarchy of influences and gatekeeping. Findings reveal that journalistic routines and behaviors of the respondents working in hyperlocal me...
Synonymic and Other Notes on Tabanidae, with Two New Species (Diptera)

Two new species, Tabanus hainanensis and T. lentis are described. New synonymies are as follows. Tabanus amacnus Walker (= T. brunnitibiatus Schuurmans Stekhoven), T. trimaculatus Palisot de Beauvois (= T. finalis Walker), T. fumifer Walker (= T. lentisignatus Schuurmans Stekhoven), T. rubidus Wiedemann (= T. sinicus Walker), T. tenes Walker (= T. partitus Walker, and T. rufocallosus Bigot), T. tetropsis Bigot (= T. productus Hine), Hybomitra lasiophthalma (Macquart) (= T. redactus Walker). The male of Cydistomyia ceylonica (Ricardo) is described and notes are given on T. attenuatus, T. calidus, T. inscitus , and T. megalops , all Walker, and T. tuberculatus Ricardo, T. oknos Surcouf, and T. barnesi Austen.
In-plane anisotropy in spin-excitation spectra originating from chain states in YBa 2 Cu 3 O 6 + y

We present a random-phase-approximation-based multilayer spin-susceptibility calculation for the trilayer YBa${}_{2}$Cu${}_{3}$O${}_{6+y}$ (YBCO) system (including bilayer CuO${}_{2}$ planes and uniaxial CuO chain layer) in the superconducting state. We show that the observed in-plane anisotropy in the spin-excitation spectrum of YBCO---which is often interpreted as evidence for the electron nematic phase---can alternatively be explained via incorporating the uniaxial CuO chain's contribution. We demonstrate that the neutron spectra in YBCO is dominated by the contribution from the fourfold symmetric CuO${}_{2}$ plane state as in other cuprates; however, it acquires an in-plane anisotropy via finite interlayer coupling with the chain state. The result rules out the claim that an electronic nematic phase is responsible for the pseudogap state in YBCO.
“In Fair Bohemia”: The Politics of Utopia in Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale and Ingeborg Bachmann’s “Bohemia Lies on the Sea”

Shakespeare’s late plays—sometimes referred to as romances—might seem to be as far as possible from the category “defiant” or “subversive” as can be imagined. In most critical estimations, The Tempest, Pericles, and The Winter’s Tale are all characterized by the closed circular structure of alienation, separation, return, and reconciliation. Far from being plays about dissent, the romances would appear to be works of a conservative older playwright anxious to find a harmonious rapprochement between alienated members of fractured families. As Stephen Orgel has pointed out, the rehabilitation of Leontes at the end of The Winter’s Tale hardly constitutes a radical or subversive resolution of the play’s internal conflicts, since patriarchy is ultimately redeemed in the reunification of the penitent king, his estranged wife Hermione, and their long-lost daughter Perdita.1
A comparison of two methods for detection of Methicilin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Objective:To compare and evaluate the credibility of MRSA ID ogenicem medium and ATB expert systems in the selection of Methicilin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus(MRSA).Methods: 62 strains Staphylococcus aureus and 68 strains Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus were analyzed using MRSA ID ogenicem medium.At the same time,these samples were analyzed using ATB expert systems,which results were compared with that of the MRSA ID ogenicem medium.Results: The statistical results from 130 specimens showed that the positive rate of MRSA ID ogenicem medium method was 45.4%(59/130),the positive rate of the ATB expert systems method was 32.3%(42/130),These was significant statical difference found(χ2=15.06,P0.05).With ATB expert systems method as standard,MRSA ID ogenicem medium method detection results showed the sensitivity 100.0%(42/42),specificity 80.7%(71/88),positive predictive71.2%(42/59),and negative predictive value 100.0%(71/71).Conclusion: MRSA ID ogenicem medium method to be provided with better sensitivity and negative predictive value,and it can be a better method for the selestion of MRSA.
Shaping Our Future: What Are Our Professional Responsibilities to Art Therapy Students?

This paper describes the results of a workshop with two groups representing a total of 25 art therapists who met to gain a better understanding of the knowledge base of art therapy and professional identity, and the importance of including prescribed content area in curricula. Although recognizing the limited scope of the survey, the paper attempts to offer valuable perspectives by including art therapy educators in Group 1 and practitioners who, for the most part, had under 5 years of clinical/field experience in Group 2. The former group desires to offer quality and responsible education to students; the latter group is daily working directly with patients and applying knowledge acquired with a fairly recently conferred Master's degree. A questionnaire was given to each group and they were asked to do two drawings. The first asked for reflection on how one interacts with one's mentor and the second for how one teaches/supervises.
Analytical Electron Microscopy of Carbon-Rich Mineral Aggregates in Solvent-Diluted Bitumen Products from Mined Alberta Oil Sands

Contaminant solids in solvent-diluted bitumen product obtained by solvent extraction and solids agglomeration (SESA) of Alberta oil sands are characterized using aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). In particular, the distribution of carbon present in these contaminant solids is determined from spatially resolved spectroscopy. Three distinct types of carbon-rich particles are identified and consist of carbonate minerals, micrometer-sized particles of toluene-insoluble organic carbon, and clay aggregates containing toluene-insoluble organic carbon. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) maps confirm the presence of carbonates, in addition to other minerals, whose abundances are determined by a recently developed quantitative phase analysis methodology. Carbonaceous micrometer-sized particles with detectable amounts of oxygen and sulfur also appear in the elemental maps and suggest the presence of bitumen-unrelated organic materials. Finally, EDX maps also suggest an in...
Evaluating the control: minipump implantation and breathing behavior in the neonatal rat.

Accumulating evidence indicates that gestational and/or neonatal stress perturbs central nervous system (CNS) development and that fetal exposure to anesthetic agents or narcotics disrupts critical...
Class 0 Scattering

It was pointed out in Chapter 1 that ultrasound interacts intimately with tissues. These interactions occur at different levels, which from a practical point of view can be classified on the basis of the sizes of the acoustic inhomogeneities. In principle, the interactions occur at molecular as well as macroscopic levels.
Complex coronoid and proximal ulna fractures are we getting better at fixing these

Technological advances and improved understanding of functional anatomy about the elbow have lead an evolution regarding operative reconstruction of complex proximal ulnar and coronoid fractures. When treating these complex and challenging fractures, goals of anatomic articular restoration along with balanced soft tissue stability can lead to early range of motion and thus, desired functional outcome. The purpose of this review is to outline and provide tips and pearls to achieve desired results, with a comprehensive update on the most recent literature to support the latest fixation methods and techniques.
A design methodology for phosphor mixtures for tunable spectrum LEDs

Spectrum tuning in phosphor converted white light emitting diodes (pc-WLED) is done by mixing powders of phosphor compounds (with different emission wavelengths) in different weight ratios. In this paper, a new methodology for designing unique full spectrum phosphor mixtures (with fixed weight ratios of different emission phosphor) has been presented that could provide a wide range of pc-WLED spectrum. This is done by optimizing the excitation and emission spectra of the phosphor compounds used in the mixture. A unique phosphor mixture comprising of Eu 2+ and Ce 3+ -Na 1+ activated compounds of SrGa 2 S 4 , CaGa 2 S 4 , SrS, CaS and CaF 2 was used to produce full spectrum warm, neutral and cool white LEDs with color temperatures between 2500 K and 7500 K and with color rendering index exceeding 95.
Quantifying Traction Stresses in Adherent Cells

Contractile force generation plays a critical role in cell adhesion, migration, and extracellular matrix reorganization in both 2D and 3D environments. Characterization of cellular forces has led to a greater understanding of cell migration, cellular mechanosensing, tissue formation, and disease progression. Methods to characterize cellular traction stresses now date back over 30 years, and they have matured from qualitative comparisons of cell-mediated substrate movements to high-resolution, highly quantitative measures of cellular force. Here, we will provide an overview of common methods used to measure forces in both 2D and 3D microenvironments. Specific focus will be placed on traction force microscopy, which measures the force exerted by cells on 2D planar substrates, and the use of confocal reflectance microscopy, which can be used to quantify collagen fibril compaction as a metric for 3D traction forces. In addition to providing experimental methods to analyze cellular forces, we discuss the application of these techniques to a large range of biomedical problems and some of the significant challenges that still remain in this field.
Gold Nanotriangle Formation through Strong-Field Laser Processing of Aqueous KAuCl4 and Postirradiation Reduction by Hydrogen Peroxide

Femtosecond laser irradiation of aqueous KAuCl4 followed by postirradiation reduction with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is investigated as a new approach for the synthesis of gold nanotriangles (AuNTs) without any added surfactant molecules. Laser irradiation was applied for times ranging from 5 to 240 s, and postirradiation reduction of the solutions was monitored by UV–vis spectroscopy. Laser processing of aqueous KAuCl4 for 240 s, where the full reduction of Au(III) occurred during irradiation, produced spherical gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) with an average size of 11.4 ± 3.4 nm. Irradiation for shorter times (i.e., 15 s) resulted in the formation of laser-generated AuNP seeds (5.7 ± 1.8 nm) in equilibrium with unreacted KAuCl4 after termination of laser irradiation. The postirradiation reduction of these solutions by H2O2 produced a mixture of spherical and triangular AuNPs. Decreasing the laser irradiation time from 45 to 5 s significantly reduced the number of laser-generated Au seeds, the amount of H2O2 ...
Chromosomal domains of transcriptional activation by PI3K/AKT pathway alterations in glioblastomas

AACR Annual Meeting-- Apr 14-18, 2007; Los Angeles, CA 242 Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and aggressive primary brain tumor and existing therapy regimens are often ineffective. The methylation status of MGMT promoter region is currently the best molecular marker of overall survival in GBM patients treated with radiation and Temozolomide. However, MGMT is not the sole prognostic determinant and does not completely define patient outcome. HOX genes encode transcription factors that play crucial roles in normal development, and have been shown to be altered in different tumor types. Considering the very limited number of studies characterizing the importance of HOXA genes in gliomagenesis, we investigated the relevance of HOXA genes in GBM and their potential as prognostic molecular markers. A cluster of HOXA genes was aberrantly expressed in GBM cell lines and primary tumors, but not in lower grade gliomas. Notably, expression of HOXA9 was associated with shorter overall and progression-free survival for GBM patients, in two independent sets of tumors. Furthermore, univariate and multivariate survival analyses showed that combined assessment of HOXA9 expression and MGMT methylation provides a better prognostication tool for GBMs than MGMT alone. In primary GBMs, aberrant overexpression of HOXA9 was associated with PTEN gene inactivation. Indeed, pharmacological manipulations of the PI3K/AKT pathway suggested that the mechanism of aberrant HOXA gene activation involves epigenetic alterations of this locus that are dependent on genetic alterations of the PI3K/AKT pathway. In conclusion, we found that a subset of the most highly malignant GBMs show a chromosomal domain of gene activation encompassing the HOXA gene cluster, where aberrant HOXA9 activation seems to be a novel molecular marker of prognosis for GBM that could improve MGMT -based predictions. These findings may help to stratify GBM patients for specific therapies. Overall, our data support the hypothesis that whole gene clusters along a chromosomal region may be activated in human tumors, and that epigenetic alterations, namely modifications at the histone tails as a result of PI3K/AKT dysfunction, may be one of the underlying mechanisms affecting these aberrant expression profiles.
Antimicrobial Resistance of Commensal Bacteria from the Environment

We will collect environmental samples and apply Kirby-Bauer test to evaluate the antimicrobial resistance of commensal microorganism.
Effects of coupling configuration on resonance excitation in a slotted photonic crystal nanobeam

High Q/V (quality factor/mode volume) platforms enable simultaneous localization of light in space and time and have enabled enhanced performance metrics in applications such as optical signal processing, photovoltaics, optical sensing and optical trapping. Slotted photonic crystal nanobeams (SPCNs) are one type of high Q/V structure that support mechanical modes in addition to high Q optical modes, opening the door to favorable optomechanical properties. In this work, in-plane excitation of fundamental resonance modes in SPCNs with high optical quality factor and high values of optomechanical coupling strength is investigated towards the realization of a monolithic configuration that is compatible with photonic integrated chips. In-line and side- coupled excitation configurations are studied. Simulations suggest that the number of optical modes supported in the SPCNs and the transmission intensity of light in these modes depend strongly on coupling configuration. For high Q SPCNs, in-line coupling suppresses the fundamental optical mode. Side-coupling supports excitation of the fundamental optical mode, but suppresses even order modes in the cavity.
Opioid Knowledge and Prescribing Practices Among Obstetrician-Gynecologists.

Objective To describe obstetrician-gynecologists' (ob-gyns) knowledge and prescribing practices regarding opioid analgesics. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional survey of a national sample of American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Fellows and Junior Fellows who are part of the Collaborative Ambulatory Research Network. We used a sequential mixed-method approach. We collected data on opioid knowledge and typical prescribing practices, including number, type, and indication for prescriptions. We determined adherence to four recommended practices: 1) screening for dependence, 2) prescribing the smallest amount required, 3) tailoring prescriptions, and 4) counseling on proper disposal. We also explored variables associated with prescribing practices. Results Sixty percent (179/300) of sampled members responded. Respondents reported prescribing a median of 26 (5-80) pills per patient across all indications combined. Ninety-eight percent prescribed opioids after surgery and a smaller proportion for nonsurgical indications: vaginal birth (22%), ovarian cysts (30%), endometriosis (24%), and chronic pelvic pain of unknown cause (18%). The number prescribed varied only by indication for the prescription. Nineteen percent reported adherence to three or more (of four) recommended practices. There was no significant difference in the median number of pills prescribed between those who reported adherence to at least one compared with those who did not adhere to any recommended practices (25 [interquartile range 25-30] vs 28 [interquartile range 20-30], P=.58). Regarding knowledge, 81% incorrectly identified the main source of misused opioids, which is through diversion from a friend or family member, and 44% did not know how to properly dispose of unused prescription opioids. Conclusion Obstetrician-gynecologists reported prescribing a median of 26 opioid pills across all indications combined. Amount prescribed varied widely by indication but not by reported adherence to recommended prescribing practices. This study highlights an urgent need for increased efforts to improve ob-gyns' knowledge of opioid use, misuse, disposal, and best prescribing practices.
Transurethral Needle Ablation of the Prostate

Abstract Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can lead to lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). The prevalence of LUTS that can include frequency, slow urinary stream, nocturia, and other symptoms due to BPH is over half of men in the United States by the time they are 80 years old. Transurethral needle ablation of the prostate (TUNA) is a minimally invasive procedure, which uses radiofrequency current to induce thermal tissue lesions to relieve patients from LUTS and prevent the progression of BPH into serious genitourinary conditions such as acute urinary retention. TUNA is an option for patients who have failed medical treatment or who cannot or do not want to undergo transurethral resection of the prostate due to risks associated with surgery or concerns of retrograde ejaculation. TUNA can be done under topical anesthesia in the outpatient setting and can be performed on a range of prostate sizes to produce significant improvements in subjective and objective symptoms.
Where Are They Now? Assessing if Persons Returned to HIV Care Following Loss to Follow-Up by Public Health Case Workers Were Engaged in Care in Follow-Up Years

We examined care engagement and viral suppression (VS) over a 1- to 5-year period among persons re-engaged in HIV care using retrospective cohort study and longitudinal follow-up. The population comprised five cohorts of persons re-engaged in care from 2009 to 2013. We used surveillance data [CD4 T cell count or HIV viral load (VL) RNA] to measure four outcomes 1-5 years post-care engagement. Engagement-in-care indicated persons with laboratory reports in each follow-up year. Continuous engagement or sustained engagement, respectively, included persons with ≥1 or ≥2 (separated by 90 days) CD4 or VL reports in each follow-up year. VS indicated persons living with HIV (PLWH) re-engaged in care with VL ≤200 copies/mL in any follow-up year, and we measured re-engaged PLWH who subsequently became out of care (OOC) in each follow-up year. Overall, 84-86% PLWH were engaged in care in any follow-up year. The proportions of PLWH cohorts continuously engaged in care [86% (1 year), 77% (2 years), 72% (3 years), 67% (4 years), and 63% (5 years)] declined over time. Thirty-four percent of the PLWH who were re-engaged in care were subsequently OOC in the follow-up years. Most re-engaged PLWH became OOC in their first (40%) and second (30%) follow-up years. In follow-up years (1-5 years), fewer PLWH continuously engaged in care with ≥1 CD4 or VL reports in the registry had VS ≤200 copies/mL: 65%, 58%, 49%, 44%, and 42%, respectively. Encouragingly, higher proportions had VL ≤1500 copies/mL in follow-up years (1-5): (75%, 72%, 73%, 75%, and 70%), likely reflecting levels of HIV treatment. Our results support the use of surveillance data to identify and re-engage OOC PLWH in care. However, structures and programs are needed to support retention in care and reduce repeat OOC.
On The High Rydberg States Of The Formyl Radical The Dynamics of Vibrational Autoionization in Triatomic Molecules

The spectroscopy of molecular Rydberg states provides a powerful link between the electronic structure of molecular excited states and the dynamics of a variety of important electron-cation scattering interactions including for example collisional and associative ionization, photoionization, dielectronic and dissociative recombination, and various forms of autoionization. A key element in this link is the interpretative framework provided by Multichannel Quantum Defect Theory (MQDT) [1, 2]. This treatment ties electron-cation scattering amplitudes to potential energy surface features of the cation-electron collision complex. Its strength lies in the systematic explanation of many thousands of spectral features and underlying state-to-state interactions in terms of small number of accurately determined details of the electronic structure of a system. Following its initial extension from atoms [3], MQDT has grown to become an established tool for understanding the excited-state structure and dynamics of a large number of diatomic molecules.
Fast Fashion Apparel Supply Chains

In this chapter, we develop an oligopoly model for fashion supply chains in the case of differentiated products with the inclusion of environmental concerns and with supply chain network link time consumption functions. Each fashion firm seeks to maximize its profit, with generalized cost components, as well as to minimize its emissions throughout its supply chain with the latter criterion being weighted in an individual manner by each firm. A case study illustrates both the generality of the modeling framework as well as how the computational scheme can be used in practice to explore the effects of changes in the demand functions; in the total generalized cost and the total emission functions, as well as in the weights.
Binocular Chromatic Rivalry and Chromatic Grid Stimuli

Amblyopic humans have reported spatial distortions of Amsler grids while viewing them monocularly with their affected eyes. I asked 170 orthophoric observers and 20 observers with visual disabilities to view two heterochromatic but isoluminant displays through OD-red, OS-green anaglyphic goggles. Both displays were produced by equal proportions of red and green phosphors which appeared yellow through color addition. One display was a spatially-unstructured rectangle while the other was a grid with dots in each grid element. I hypothesized that spatial distortion in one eye must prevent binocular chromatic fusion of these grids when viewed through anaglyphic goggles. Forty-four percent of 116 orthophoric observers (the FUSERS) reported chromatic fusion of the spatially-unstructured display more than 50% of the time. I define chromatic fusion as a yellow percept. Fifty-six percent (the RIVALERS) reported binocular chromatic rivalry, defined as alternating red, green, and yellow percepts. Upon viewing the grid, the FUSERS decreased fusion dwell time while the RIVALERS increased fusion dwell time. None of the 8 observers with histories of strabismus reported spatial distortion of the grids viewed monocularly with the affected eye. Seven reported rivalry, one reported fusion, while three reported simultaneous perception of both red and green elements as well as rivalry. This may indicate interstimulus rather than interocular competition.
Effects of Glucose Oxidase-Catalase on the Flavor Stability of Model Salad Dressings

ABSTRACT The effects of glucose oxidase-catalase on the flavor stabilities of model salad dressings were determined by measuring peroxide values. Further, the effects of pH, temperature and glucose on the activity of glucose oxidase-catalase in model salad dressings were studied by measuring the reduction of dissolved oxygen. As the pH increased from 3, 4, 5, to 6, the amount of dissolved oxygen of the dressing decreased significantly (α = 0.05). As the temperature increased from 10, 20 to 30°C, the amount of dissolved oxygen decreased significantly (α = 0.05). As the temperature increased from 30, 40 to 50°C, the amount of dissolved oxygen decreased. As the concentration of glucose increased from 0 to 0.5%, the amount of dissolved oxygen decreased significantly (α = 0.05). There was no significant difference (α = 0.05) in dissolved oxygen reduction among the samples containing 0.5, 1.5, or 2.0% glucose. As glucose oxidase-catalase increased from 0 to 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 units/g, the peroxide values decreased significantly (α = 0.05). As glucose oxidase-catalase increased from 0.3 to 0.7 units/g, peroxide values increased significantly (α = 0.05). In salad dressings containing no glucose, the glucose oxidase-catalase acted as prooxidant; as the enzyme increased from 0 to 0.2 and 0.3 units/g, peroxide values increased (α = 0.05).
Investigations of degradation and encapsulation of plastic scintillator

Abstract Studies have revealed that plastic scintillators such as polyvinyl toluene and polystyrene can undergo environmentally related material damage (“fogging”) that adversely affects detection performance under certain conditions and histories. A significant decrease in sensitivity has been seen in some gamma-ray detectors as they age as a result of this damage. Performance degradation due to such damage is characterized by a signal change from the detector, which shifts to lower energy, and ultimately a reduction in the ability to detect gamma radiation . This degradation is due to the permeation of water into the plastic, which can then cause temporary fogging and permanent damage to the material. As an example, a 1-mm thick barrier of high-density polyethylene with an area of 1 m 2 would allow 5 g per year of water transmission at 100% relative humidity. Thus, significant amounts of water can penetrate plastics over time and provide the potential for damage to the plastic. Such damage to plastic scintillator can cause problems for radiation detection applications in uncontrolled environments. Mitigation approaches that have been proposed to prevent damage to plastic scintillator include encapsulation of the plastic scintillator to prevent water intrusion that leads to damage during cold cycles. It is concluded that an encapsulation material with a moisture vapor transmission rate on the order of 10 −4 g ⋅ m−2 ⋅ d − 1 or better is needed for protecting large pieces of plastic scintillator from fogging over years of use. This paper presents information on testing of bare and encapsulated plastic scintillator samples and on diagnostic approaches to measure the nature and progression of the fogging condition. It is shown that several encapsulation approaches fail to prevent water intrusion, while a couple methods can successfully encapsulate plastic and prevent water from penetrating the plastic and producing fogging.
A patient-centered mobile health application to motivate use of genetic counseling among women with ovarian cancer: A pilot randomized controlled trial.

Abstract Objective Despite current guidelines recommending women with ovarian cancer receive genetic risk evaluation by a genetic counselor, utilization has historically been low. We sought to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of a week-long mobile Application for Genetic Information on Cancer (mAGIC) intervention aimed to persuade women with ovarian cancer to pursue genetic counseling. Methods The mobile application intervention was based on the Fogg Behavior Model, and consisted of three parts: (1) identifying barriers, (2) developing motivators, and (3) providing triggers to action. The Health Belief Model was used to guide content development. We conducted a prospective, randomized, controlled pilot trial among 104 untested women with a history of epithelial ovarian, primary peritoneal or fallopian tube cancer with the primary objective of increasing uptake of cancer genetic counseling services. Results Utilization of cancer genetic counseling services improved in both study arms over historical controls, however there was no statistically significant difference between them (intervention: 54.5% versus control: 38.6%; p = 0.14). However, compared to controls, women randomized to the mAGIC intervention demonstrated greater knowledge of hereditary cancer (0–10 scale; 9.4 ± 1.0 vs. 7.1 ± 1.5; p Conclusions The mAGIC intervention did not result in increased uptake of genetic counseling, however it provided significant secondary benefits, including increased participants' knowledge about hereditary ovarian cancer, self-efficacy, and their reported communication with family members. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02877862
Cost-effectiveness of adult pneumococcal vaccination policies in underserved minorities aged 50-64 years compared to the US general population.

BACKGROUND Changing pneumococcal disease epidemiology due to childhood vaccination has prompted re-examination of US adult pneumococcal vaccination policies, as have considerations of greater pneumococcal disease incidence and higher prevalence of conditions that increase risk in underserved minority populations. Prior analyses suggest routine pneumococcal vaccination at age 50 could be considered, which could disproportionately benefit underserved populations. METHODS A Markov cohort model estimated the cost-effectiveness of US pneumococcal vaccination policies in hypothetical 50-year-old underserved minority and general population cohorts. Strategies included receiving one or both available pneumococcal vaccines based on age- or chronic condition-specific criteria. US databases and medical literature data calibrated pneumococcal illness incidence, vaccine serotype distributions, age- and race-specific chronic condition distributions, and costs. Black population data were used as a proxy for underserved minorities. We took a US healthcare perspective, discounting at 3%/year. One-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed and scenarios modeling differing vaccine assumptions were examined. RESULTS In both black and general population 50-year-olds, giving both pneumococcal vaccines to all 50-year-olds prevented the most disease, but cost >$250,000 per quality adjusted life year (QALY) gained. Current CDC recommendations (both vaccines for the immunocompromised, polysaccharide vaccine for other high-risk conditions) were economically favorable in either population when analyses assumed polysaccharide vaccine was ineffective against nonbacteremic pneumococcal pneumonia (NBP). If polysaccharide vaccine is effective against NBP or if less complex age-based vaccination recommendations result in increased vaccine uptake, giving polysaccharide vaccine to all 50-year-olds cost <$100,000/QALY; this effect was more pronounced in black cohorts. Results were robust in 1-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses. CONCLUSIONS Despite changes in pneumococcal epidemiology, current CDC recommendations were favored in underserved minority and general population cohorts. Polysaccharide vaccine for all 50-year-olds could be considered under some vaccine uptake and effectiveness assumptions, particularly if mitigating racial health disparities in pneumococcal disease is a priority.
An improved heteroduplex analysis for rapid genotyping of SNPs and single base pair indels.

SNPs and single base pair (SBP) insertion/deletions (indels) are not only the most abundant genetic markers for genetic mapping and breeding selection, but also always occur in the mutants generate...
The Tragedy of the Commons: A Theoretical Update

The theory of common property resources traces the overexploitation of natural resources to the absence of ownership rights. Garrett Hardin argues such resources can be managed, if at all, by autocratic government because individuals or local communities cannot cooperate to manage them. In recent decades the theory has undergone substantial elaboration. There are many examples of societies around the world that do manage resources using local level rules, which theorists have described in detail. Another set of theorists using game theory have shown when and where individuals can cooperate to conserve resources. Others have developed a new conception of property rights, noting that different types of property produce several kinds of goods. Still others point out that that both the commons and private property can be traced to differing levels of economic defendability. Recently, analysis of the commons has gone beyond natural resources to other kinds of commons, such as knowledge.
Stochastic Optimization for Coupled Tensor Decomposition with Applications in Statistical Learning

Coupled tensor decomposition aims at factoring a number of tensors that share some of their latent factors. Existing algorithms for coupled canonical polyadic decomposition (CPD) face serious scal-ablity challenges, especially when the number of tensors is large. However, a large amount of coupled tensors naturally arise in timely applications such as statistical learning, e.g., when estimating the joint probability mass function (PMF) of many random variables from marginal PMFs. Stochastic algorithms that admit lightweight updates exist for coupled decomposition, but these algorithms cannot handle complex constraints (e.g., the probability simplex constraint that is important in statistical learning) due to their sampling patterns. This work puts forth a simple data-sampling and block variable-updating strategy for simultaneously factoring a large number of coupled tensors. The proposed algorithm enjoys low per-iteration complexity and can easily handle constraints on latent factors. We also show that this multi-block algorithm admits a nice connection to the classic single-block stochastic proximal gradient (SPG), and thus it naturally inherits convergence properties of SPG. Synthetic and real-data experiments show that the proposed algorithm is very promising for statistical learning problems.
Against the Script With edTPA: Preservice Teachers Utilize Performance Assessment to Teach Outside Scripted Curriculum:

This article reports on how the policy context shaped the development of two elementary preservice teachers’ (PSTs) literacy instructional practice. While student teaching emergent bilingual studen...
Seizures in Patients With Metastatic Brain Tumors: Prevalence, Clinical Characteristics, and Features on EEG.

Introduction Metastases to the brain (MB) occur in up to 30% of adults with cancer; of these, 15% to 35% may have seizures. We investigated clinical and pathologic associations with seizure and EEG findings in patients with MB, given the sparse literature in this area. Methods We performed a retrospective chart review of adults with pathologically confirmed MB treated at a large tertiary care center between April 8, 2006, and December 14, 2018. Primary outcomes were odds of "chart-documented seizure" (CDS) in the full sample and EEG-captured seizure or any epileptiform discharges among those monitored on EEG. Results We studied 187 patients with MB, of whom 55 (28.3%) were monitored on EEG. We found an overall CDS prevalence of 29.4% and an EEG-captured seizure of 18.9% among patients monitored on EEG. Of those monitored on EEG, 47.2% had epileptiform discharges. Adenocarcinoma pathology was associated with lower odds of CDS (odds ratio [OR] 0.50, 95% CI 0.26-0.96) and EEG-captured seizure (OR 0.09, 95% CI 0.01-0.87) versus other pathologies. When modeled separately, melanoma pathology was associated with CDS (OR 4.45, 95% CI 1.58-12.57) versus other pathologies. Hemorrhagic MB were associated with any epileptiform discharges (OR 5.50, 95% CI 1.65-18.37), regardless of pathology modeled. Increasing size of the largest dimension of the largest MB was associated with lower odds of CDS (OR 0.68, 95% CI 0.52-0.89 when adenocarcinoma modeled, OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.53-0.91 when melanoma modeled). Conclusions Seizures and epileptiform discharges are common in patients with MB. Tumor size and pathology were significantly associated with CDS. Larger studies are needed for further analysis.
Current Clinical Methods for Detection of Peri-Prosthetic Joint Infection

Background: Currently, one of the most pressing problems in the field of orthopedic surgery is peri-prosthetic joint infection [PJI]. While there are numerous ways to detect PJI, current clinical detection methods differ across institutions and have varying criteria and protocols. Some of these methods include the Modified Musculoskeletal Infection Society system, culturing, polymerase chain reaction, the determination of the presence of certain biomarkers, testing for the presence of alpha defensin peptides, and leukocyte level testing. Methods: This review summarizes the most recent publications in the field of PJI detection to highlight current strengths as well as provide future directions to find the system for the quickest, cost-effective, and most accurate way to diagnose these types of infections. Results: The results of this literature review suggest that, while each method of diagnosis has its advantages, each has various drawbacks as well. Current methods can be expensive, take days to weeks to complete, be prone to contamination, and can produce ambiguous results. Conclusions: The findings in this review emphasize the need for a more comprehensive and accurate system for diagnosing PJI. In addition, the specific comparison of advantages and drawbacks can be useful for researchers and clinicians with goals of creating new diagnostic tests for PJIs, as well as in clinical scenarios to determine the correct treatment for patients.
Differential βarrestin1‐Mediated Signaling in Spontaneously Hypertensive versus Normotensive Rat‐Derived Astrocytes

ObjectiveTo investigate the role of βarrestin1 in angiotensin II (AngII) type 1 receptor (AT1R)-mediated signaling in astrocytes isolated from the brainstem of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs...
A NECK STRENGTH TRAINING PROTOCOL IN HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PLAYERS FOR CONCUSSION RISK REDUCTION

Background:Increased neck strength may be a protective factor for reducing concussions in youth athletes. However, little research exists regarding validated neck strength training methods among th...
Jill Watson SA: Design and Evaluation of a Virtual Agent to Build Communities Among Online Learners

Despite being accessible and affordable, online education presents numerous challenges for online learners due to the absence of face-to-face interactions. Lack of community-belongingness, in particular, negatively impacts online learners' learning outcomes and learning experience. To help online learners build communities and foster connections with their peers, we designed and deployed Jill Watson SA (stands for Social Agent). Jill Watson SA is a virtual agent who can match students with shared identity, defined by similarities in location, timezone, hobby, class schedule, etc., on the Piazza class discussion forum. We implemented Jill Watson SA in two online classes and conducted three short surveys with online students to evaluate Jill Watson SA.
Mid and Later Life Reproductive Factors Are Not Associated with Physical Frailty Among Women with Heart Failure

Background In heart failure (HF), the prevalence of physical frailty is high, and women are more likely to be frail than men; however, the reasons for gender differences in physical frailty in HF are unknown. Frailty has been associated with younger age at menopause and a history of hysterectomy, possibly reflecting accelerated aging. The relationship between physical frailty and later life reproductive factors might elucidate mechanisms of physical frailty among women with HF. Hypothesis : We hypothesized that, among women with HF, physical frailty will be associated with history of hysterectomy, post-menopause, and reproductive cancer. Methods : This was an analysis of data collected from a study of gender differences in physical frailty in HF. We examined reproductive factors of hysterectomy, post-menopause, and reproductive cancer history among women in the sample. Physical frailty was measured using the Frailty Phenotype Criteria: unintentional weight loss, weakness, slowness, physical exhaustion, and low physical activity. Comparative statistics were used to compare reproductive factors with physical frailty. Logistic regression was used to quantify associations between reproductive factors and physical frailty, accounting for age, etiology, HF type (reduced or preserved ejection fraction), and Charlson Comorbidity Index. Results The average age of women in our sample (n = 56) was 65.0±16.3 years and 83.9% had non-ischemic etiology of HF. The majority (82%) were in menopause transition or post-menopause. Physical frailty was identified in 58.9% of women. There was no significant association between physical frailty and history of a hysterectomy (χ2 = 1.52, p = 0.22), post-menopause (χ2 = 0.87, p = 0.65), or reproductive cancer (χ2 = 0.19, p = 0.67). In separate multivariate logistic regression models, history of hysterectomy (OR 1.75, 95% CI [0.48, 6.34]), post-menopause (OR 0.38, 95% CI [0.03, 5.07]), or reproductive cancer (OR 0.35, 95% CI [0.04, 2.95]) were not significantly associated with physical frailty in women. Conclusions Mid and later life reproductive factors, as well as age, do not appear to be significantly associated with physical frailty among women with HF, indicating that physical frailty affects women across the lifespan. However, future studies should explore a comprehensive reproductive history, including age of menarche, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and other reproductive life events, as variables that may impact physical frailty among women with HF.
Google Tour Builder: Tracking the Impact of Civil War Veterans in a Kansas Community

The author describes how high school students can use Google Tour Builder to track the impact of local Civil War veterans by conducting research with primary and secondary sources. In the article, ...
Adverse outcomes in early term versus full-term deliveries among higher-order cesarean births.

In an attempt to avoid emergency deliveries of women with multiple prior scars, providers may choose to schedule those repeat cesarean births prior to 39 weeks. Our primary goal was to compare rate...