cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sentinel lymph node biopsy for ocular adnexal melanoma.

Background We sought to update our prior report of findings on sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) and predictors of a positive SLN in patients with conjunctival or eyelid melanoma. Methods We reviewed the records of all patients with ocular adnexal melanoma who underwent SLNB at one institution during 2000–2015. We determined rates of positive and false-negative findings on SLNB, primary tumour features correlated with positive findings and rate of nodal recurrence (false-negative event) after negative findings. Results The study included 51 patients, 31 with conjunctival and 20 with eyelid melanoma. These patients include 30 patients who underwent SLNB during 2000–2008, described in our previous report, and 21 additional patients who underwent SLNB during 2008–2015. There were 30 women and 21 men with median age at SLNB of 62 years (range, 24–83). The nodal basins most commonly sampled were intraparotid (27 patients) and level II (14 patients). Ten patients had positive SLNB findings. Compared to tumours with negative findings, tumours with positive findings had greater median thickness (3.5 mm versus 2.2 mm, p = 0.04), greater median number of mitotic figures (6 versus 2, p = 0.03) and greater incidence of ulceration (80% versus 26%, p = 0.003). Perineural and vascular invasion were not significantly associated with positive findings. There were three false-negative events. Three patients (6%) had temporary marginal mandibular weakness which resolved spontaneously. Conclusion SLNB in patients with ocular adnexal melanoma is safe and identifies nodal micrometastasis in approximately 20% of cases. Histologic features associated with a positive SLN included greater tumour thickness, greater number of mitotic figures and ulceration.
Applications of Switchable Permanent Magnetic Actuators in Shape Change and Tactile Display

Systems realizing shape change and tactile display remain hindered by the power, cost, and size limitations of current actuation technology. We describe and evaluate a novel use of switchable permanent magnets as a bistable actuator for haptic feedback which draws power only when switching states. Because of their efficiency, low cost, and small size, these actuators show promise in realizing tactile display within mobile, wearable, and embedded systems. We present several applications demonstrating potential uses in the mobile, automotive, and desktop computing domains, and perform a technical evaluation of the actuators used in these systems.
Conflict-Framed News, Self-Categorization, and Partisan Polarization

Two experiments tested whether exposure to partisan conflict-framed news polarizes news consumers along party lines. Partisan self-categorization and motivated reasoning were examined as potential ...
Microwave Ablation of the Lung in a Porcine Model: Vessel Diameter Predicts Pulmonary Artery Occlusion

To determine the size of pulmonary artery (PA) at risk for occlusion during percutaneous microwave ablation and to assess the effect of vessel diameter, number, and patency, on ablation zone volume. Computed tomography (CT) fluoroscopy-guided percutaneous microwave ablations were performed in 8 pigs under general anesthesia. All ablations were performed at 65 W for 5 min with a single 17-gauge antenna positioned in the central third of the lungs. A CT pulmonary angiogram was performed immediately after the ablations. The maximum diameter, number and patency of PA branches within each ablation zone were recorded. Ablation volumes were measured at gross dissection and with CT. Student’s t test was used to compare ablation zone volumes among groups. Twenty-one pulmonary ablations were performed. Six of the ablation zones (29%) contained at least 1 occluded PA branch. The mean diameter of the occluded PA branches in the ablation zones (2.4 mm; range, 2.0–2.8 mm) was significantly smaller than non-occluded PA branches (3.7 mm; range: 2.1–6.9 mm; p = 0.009). No PA branches ≥3 mm in size were occluded. There was no significant difference in volume of gross ablation zones that contained occluded versus non-occluded PAs (p = 0.42), one versus multiple PAs (p = 0.71), or PAs <3 mm versus ≥3 mm in diameter (p = 0.44). PAs ≥3 mm in size have a low risk for iatrogenic occlusion during percutaneous microwave ablation. The presence of multiple adjacent PA branches, an occluded PA branch, and a vessel diameter ≥3 mm within the ablation zone had no observed effect on ablation zone volume.
Organic and inorganic contamination control approaches for return sample investigation on Mars 2020

The Mars 2020 Rover mission will have the capability to collect and cache samples for potential Mars sample return. Specifically, the sample caching system (SCS) is designed for coring Mars samples and acquiring regolith samples as well as handling, sealing and caching on Mars. As the potential first Martian samples that could be returned to Earth, assuring low levels of terrestrial contamination is of the utmost concern. In developing the SCS, the project prioritizes limiting sample contamination in organic, inorganic and biological areas. The focus of this paper is on the strategies being implemented to limit terrestrial organic and inorganic contamination in the samples.
Renal keratinising desquamative squamous metaplasia: all that hurts is not stone.

A 66-year-old Caucasian man with history of hypertension, hyperlipidaemia and 16 pack-year smoking was referred to us for evaluation of recurrent right-sided flank pain and suspected nephrolithiasis. His first episode of pain was 2 years prior to presentation, which was recurrent. There was no associated haematuria, dysuria, fever, chills, urinary hesitancy or incontinence. There was no family history of stones. He underwent multiple ureteroscopies, which have shown glistening, soft, acellular debris in the upper ureter. Last ureteroscopy and pyeloscopy showed normal underlying mucosa, renal pelvis and calyces with no evidence of malignancy. Subsequent MRI also did not show any malignancy. The last available pathology showed minute fragments of acellular keratin …
Abstract 139: Using Cyclic Strain to Improve Cardiac Progenitor Cell Cooperation

Introduction: Cell therapies have grown in popularity for myocardial regeneration post-infarction, but still suffer from poor retention, maturation and integration of delivered cells. Mechanical strain has been shown to alter cell size, shape, adherence and gene expression in cardiac cells. As a more recently identified cell type, the effect of mechanical strain on cardiac progenitor cells (CPCs) is unknown. This work aims to elucidate the role mechanical strain plays in CPC phenotype and if this response is matrix protein specific. We hypothesize that mechanical strain will improve CPC alignment and potential for connectivity. Methods: To examine the role of mechanical strain on CPCs, CPCs were seeded on FlexCell plates in the presence of a naturally-derived cardiac extracellularmatrix (cECM), collagen I (COL) or no protein (TCP) and strained 0% (static) or 10% at 1 Hz for 24 hours in a BioFlex system. CPC elongation, alignment, and size were evaluated by rhodamine-phalloidin staining. Connexin-43 expression was measured by Western and normalized to GAPDH. Data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA and Bonferroni post-test. Results: CPC area, independent of culture conditions, was 1020 ± 40 um2, corresponding to neonatal cardiomyocyte area. The aspect ratio (major/minor axis) of CPCs showed a trend for increased elongation with strain at (e.x. 2.0±0.2 for unstrained cECM compared to 2.7±0.1 for strained cECM; n=4, p>0.05). Static culture conditions, independent of matrix coating, showed 20±3% alignment of CPCs. Under strain, alignment increased to 30±2% on COL (n=4; p>0.05 for strained COL verus static COL) and 48±8% on cECM (n=4; p 2 for connexin-43 protein in strained versus static conditions, independent of matrix, was observed (n=2, p>0.05) and confirmed by immunocytochemistry. Conclusion: This work suggests that mechanical strain alters CPC phenotype. Increased strain-induced alignment appears to be matrix dependent. In conclusion, these studies provide insight into the role of both mechanical forces and biochemical responses in the function of CPCs; which could lead to improved outcomes following cellular transplantation.
EEG processing: a many-core approach utilising the Intel single-chip cloud computer platform

Epilepsy is the most frequent neurological disorder other than stroke. The electroencephalogram (EEG) is the main tool used in monitoring and recording brain signals. In this study, we target two detection algorithms that are essential in the diagnosis of epileptic patients. These algorithms detect high frequency oscillations (HFO) and interictal spikes (IIS) in subdural EEG recordings respectively. This paper presents the efforts on porting both EEG processing algorithms into Intel's concept vehicle, the single-chip cloud computer (SCC), a fully programmable 48-core prototype provided with an on-chip network along with advanced power management technologies and support for message-passing. Several experiments are presented for different SCC configurations, where we vary the number of cores used and their respective voltage/frequency settings. The application was decomposed into two execution regions (i.e., load and execution). Results are presented in the form of performance, power, energy, and energy-delay product (EDP) metrics for each experiment.
Earthquake Considerations in Earth Dam Design

THE PAPER SUMMARIZES MAJOR CONCLUSIONS FROM A TWO-YEAR STUDY OF THE INFORMATION CURRENTLY AVAILABLE TO THE PRACTICING CIVIL ENGINEER TO AID HIM IN ANSWERING THE QUESTION, HOW SHOULD EARTH DAMS BE DESIGNED DIFFERENTLY IN REGIONS OF EARTHQUAKE ACTIVITY{ EMPHASIS IS PLACED ON SOME OF THE MAIN DESIGN PROBLEMS WHICH ARE NOT SUBJECT TO ANALYTICAL TREATMENT, SUCH AS, THE DEGREE OF CONSERVATISM JUSTIFIED, THE IMPORTANCE OF ZONING AND TRANSITIONS; DESIGN DETAILS FOR THE TOP OF THE DAM, THE INFLUENCE OF THE PROPERTIES OF THE CORE MATERIAL, THE EVALUATION OF THE SEISMICITY OF THE SITE, AND THE INFLUENCE OF THE SPILLWAY DESIGN ON THE SAFETY OF THE DAM AGAINST THE EARTHQUAKE HAZARD. INTERVIEWS WERE HELD WITH EXPERTS IN THE FIELDS OF SEISMOLOGY, GEOLOGY, EARTHQUAKE ENGINEERING, SOIL MECHANICS AND DAM ENGINEERING. /ASCE/
Isothermal Precision forging of magnesium alloy components with high performance

Abstract Because of hexagonal crystal structure, magnesium alloys, especially magnesium alloys with addition of rare earths, exhibit poor formability at room temperature. The isothermal precision forging process at elevated temperature can improve the formability of magnesium alloys. In this paper, the isothermal precision forging process of the complex shape case of Mg-Gd-Y-Zn-Zr magnesium alloy was simulated based on FORGE Nxt. A two-stage isothermal precision forging process was determined. According to the simulation results, isothermal precision forging experiments of magnesium parts with high performance and complex shape were successfully carried out. After isothermal precision forging process, the cases of magnesium alloy were subjected to heat treatment. Moreover, the mechanical properties of parts were also determined.
Cystic fibrosis screening: lessons learned from the first 320,000 patients.

Purpose: To examine the data from >335,000 Cystic fibrosis (CF) tests to detect unsuspected findings and obtain clinical data when indicated to optimize genetic counseling. Methods: A proprietary database containing 335,204 consecutive CF DNA tests and 445 CF prenatal diagnostic tests was queried. Clinical information was obtained for prenatal and selected nonprenatal cases by telephone contact with physician offices. Results: The mutation 1078delT was found in much lower frequency than expected with rates of only 1:55,867 tests and 0.06% of CF mutations. This level is below the threshold set by the American College of Medical Genetics. Homozygosity was observed for 2789+5G>A in a 29-year-old women and compound heterozygosity with delta F408 in a 40-year-old woman with isolated chronic sinusitis. Many patients elected prenatal diagnosis when not at a 1:4 risk due to echogenic bowel or IVS-8 5T issues. Conclusions: With the exception of 1078delT, all CF mutations in the ACMG panel were detected with a frequency of > 0.1% of CF chromosomes. When ACMG guidelines are strictly adhered to, population-based CF carrier screening will accurately identify couples at risk for having children with CF.
RNA Binding Protein, HuR, Regulates SCN5A Expression Through Stabilizing MEF2C transcription factor mRNA

Background Although transcription is the initial process of gene expression, posttranscriptional gene expression regulation has also played a critical role for fine‐tuning gene expression in a fast, precise, and cost‐effective manner. Although the regulation of sodium channel α‐subunit ( SCN5A ) mRNA expression has been studied at both transcriptional and pre‐mRNA splicing levels, the molecular mechanisms governing SCN5A mRNA expression are far from clear. Methods and Results Herein, we show that, as evidenced by ribonucleoprotein immunoprecipitation assay, RNA binding protein Hu antigen R/ELAV like RNA binding protein 1 (HuR/ELAVL1) and myocyte enhancer factor‐2C (MEF2C) transcription factor mRNA are associated. HuR positively regulated transcription factor MEF2C mRNA expression by protecting its mRNA from degradation. As demonstrated by both chromatin immunoprecipitation–quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay and an electrophoretic mobility shift assay, MEF2C enhanced SCN5A transcription by binding to a putative MEF2C binding site within SCN5A promoter region. Overexpression of HuR increased the expression of SCN5A mRNA, and this effect was attenuated by the presence of MEF2C small interfering RNA in cardiomyocytes. Conclusions In conclusion, our results suggested that HuR participates in a combined network at the DNA and RNA levels that regulates SCN5A mRNA expression. HuR upregulates MEF2C mRNA expression by protecting MEF2C mRNA from degradation, and consequently, the elevated MEF2C enhances SCN5A mRNA transcription.
Ejection and Ionization Efficiencies in Electron and Ion-Stimulated Desorption from Covalently Bound Surface Structures

In this study we have examined the effects of substrate and modifier structure on the ion and electron-induced ejection of ions from surface species which are covalently attached to a metal oxide. The primary goal was to compare the ejection of parent and fragment ions induced by ion-stimulated desorption (1 KeV Ar+) to those ejected by electron-stimulated desorption (1 KeV) to ascertain which excitation method yielded a more reliable or sensitive mode for analysis of such surface structures. In the process of examining the analytical aspects of ESD vs SIMS we have observed marked similarities in the secondary ion energy spectra and total dissociation cross-sections for the two techniques, yet the ionization efficiencies are drastically different. Some indirect insight into the role played by the electronic component of the collision cascade in SIMS of these and related systems is thus provided.
The Pallium of Anuran Amphibians

This chapter focuses on the pallium (telencephalic roof) of anuran amphibians. It includes descriptions of normal and connectional anatomy based almost entirely on data from ranid frogs, and also offers comparisons with the pallium in reptiles. Only a brief discussion of pallial fields and connections in urodeles is undertaken, largely because of the paucity of new information appearing since the last major review of the amphibian telencephalon (Northcutt and Kicliter, 1980). For much the same reason, no discussion of the pallium in apodans is presented. A description of their pallial areas and references to earlier literature can be found in Northcutt and Kicliter (1980).
Use of contraceptive depot medroxyprogesterone acetate is associated with impaired cervicovaginal mucosal integrity

BACKGROUND. Injectable depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) is one of the most popular contraception methods in areas of high HIV seroprevalence. Evidence is accumulating that use of DMPA might be associated with an increased risk of HIV-1 acquisition by women; however, mechanisms of this association are not completely understood. The goal of this study was to gain insight into mechanisms underlying the possible link between use of DMPA and risk of HIV-1 acquisition, exploring transcription profiling of ectocervical tissues. METHODS. Healthy women received either DMPA (n = 31) or combined oral contraceptive (COC), which has not been linked to an increased risk of HIV acquisition (n = 32). We conducted a comparative microarray-based whole-genome transcriptome profiling of human ectocervical tissues before and after 6 weeks of hormonal contraception use. RESULTS. The analysis identified that expression of 235 and 76 genes was significantly altered after DMPA and COC use, respectively. The most striking effect of DMPA, but not COC, was significantly altered expression (mostly downregulation) of many genes strategically involved in the maintenance of mucosal barrier function; the alterations, as indicated by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA), were most likely due to the DMPA-induced estrogen deficiency. Furthermore, IPA predicted that transcriptome alterations related to ectocervical immune responses were in general compatible with an immunosuppressive effect of DMPA, but, in some women, also with an inflammatory-like response. CONCLUSION. Our results suggest that impairment of cervicovaginal mucosal integrity in response to DMPA administration is an important mechanism contributing to the potential increased risk of HIV-1 acquisition in DMPA users. TRIAL REGISTRATION. ClinicalTrials.gov {"type":"clinical-trial","attrs":{"text":"NCT01421368","term_id":"NCT01421368"}}NCT01421368. FUNDING. This study was supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) under Cooperative Agreement GPO-A-00-08-00005-00.
Prevention and Management of HBV Infection in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease Requiring Renal Transplantation

This review addresses clinical challenges of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in patients with chronic kidney disease and renal transplant recipients. Prophylactic antiviral therapy with nucleos(t)ide analogues is key to prevent HBV reactivation in renal transplant recipients. In addition, attaining adequate immunity following vaccination against HBV may permit transplantation of renal grafts from donors with evidence of prior HBV infection. The role of nucleos(t)ide analogues for treatment of recurrent or de novo HBV infection in renal transplant recipients is well established and preliminary experience demonstrate significant reductions in the median time in the renal transplant waiting list by transplanting HBsAg-positive renal grafts into HBsAg-positive recipients, without sacrificing graft or patient survival with the use of these agents. Availability of potent nucleos(t)ide analogues results in improved outcomes following renal transplantation in patients with chronic HBV infection by avoiding recurrent or de novo infection.
Factors Influencing a 24-Hour Time-Budget for Wintering Atlantic Brant

Abstract The wintering period is often a limiting time for waterfowl. To understand the behavioral dynamics of Atlantic brant Branta bernicla hrota wintering along coastal New Jersey, USA, we condu...
Multiple N-acetyltransferases and drug metabolism. Tissue distribution, characterization and significance of mammalian N-acetyltransferase.

Investigations in the rabbit have indicated the existence of more than one N-acetyltransferase (EC 2.3.1.5). At least two enzymes, possibly isoenzymes, were partially characterized. The enzymes differed in their tissue distribution, substrate specificity, stability and pH characteristics. One of the enzymes was primarily associated with liver and gut and catalysed the acetylation of a wide range of drugs and foreign compounds, e.g. isoniazid, p-aminobenzoic acid, sulphamethazine and sulphadiazine. The activity of this enzyme corresponded to the well-characterized polymorphic trait of isoniazid acetylation, and determined whether individuals were classified as either ;rapid' or ;slow' acetylators. Another enzyme activity found in extrahepatic tissues readily catalysed the acetylation of p-aminobenzoic acid but was much less active towards isoniazid and sulphamethazine. The activity of this enzyme remained relatively constant from individual to individual. Studies in vitro and in vivo with both ;rapid' and ;slow' acetylator rabbits revealed that, for certain substrates, extrahepatic N-acetyltransferase contributes significantly to the total acetylating capacity of the individual. The possible significance and applicability of these findings to drug metabolism and acetylation polymorphism in man is discussed.
The Psychoeducational Assessment and Report Writing Process: A General Overview

This chapter expands upon the previously presented evidence-based psychoeducational assessment and report writing framework and provides an overview of the fourth pillar of evidence-based psychoeducational assessment and report writing—the mechanics of the psychoeducational assessment and report writing process. Chapter 4 discusses interviewing and gathering of additional sources of data including rating forms, records, and background information. Chapter 5 furnishes an overview of how to conduct an observation. The remaining chapters in the book are devoted to further explicating the fourth pillar of psychoeducational assessment and report writing including integrating information, conceptualizing a classification, writing a report, and providing oral feedback.
Medical marijuana and clinical trials

Abstract This chapter reviews the historical use of cannabis as a pharmaceutical; examine some of the arguments for the use of medical marijuana and of CBD as well as the numerous conceptual, practical, and legal difficulties that stand in the way of the necessary, definitive clinical trials. Such investigations would tell us whether or not cannabis and/or its many constituents have the utility for particular medical conditions. We will review existing data that medical marijuana may be effective in treating a variety of illnesses and try to gauge the strength of the supporting evidence for a handful of the most studied of them.
Married with Children? The Role of Student Loan Debt

Data from the 2008:2012 Baccalaureate and Beyond panel dataset, collected by the US Department of Education, were used to analyze the role of student loan debt in separate predictive models for marriage and fertility decisions in a representative sample of four-year college graduates from institutions across the country. Subjective analysis of marriage and fertility decisions indicated that students identified debt as a significant factor in delaying progression to these major life events. In the empirical analyses of marriage and child birth, instrumenting student loans using in-state tuition rates, student loans were a significant predictor of actual marriage decisions but not a significant predictor for the birth of a first child in the first four years after graduation. Further, for four-year college graduates, a $1,000 increase in cumulative undergraduate student loan balance was associated with a 1.3% decreased likelihood of marriage in the first four years after college.
State densities of heavy nuclei in the static-path plus random-phase approximation

Nuclear state densities are important inputs to statistical models of compound-nucleus reactions. State densities are often calculated with self-consistent mean-field approximations that do not include important correlations and must be augmented with empirical collective enhancement factors. Here, we benchmark the static-path plus random-phase approximation (SPA + RPA) to the state density in a chain of samarium isotopes $^{148\text{--}155}\mathrm{Sm}$ against exact results (up to statistical errors) obtained with the shell-model Monte Carlo (SMMC) method. The SPA + RPA method incorporates all static fluctuations beyond the mean field together with small-amplitude quantal fluctuations around each static fluctuation. Using a pairing plus quadrupole interaction, we show that the SPA + RPA state densities agree well with the exact SMMC densities for both the even- and odd-mass isotopes. For the even-mass isotopes, we also compare our results with mean-field state densities calculated with the finite-temperature Hartree-Fock-Bogoliubov (HFB) approximation. We find that the SPA + RPA repairs the deficiencies of the mean-field approximation associated with broken rotational symmetry in deformed nuclei and with the violation of particle-number conservation in the pairing condensate. In particular, in deformed nuclei the SPA + RPA reproduces the rotational enhancement of the state density relative to the mean-field state density.
Enantiospecific Detection of Chiral Nanosamples Using Photoinduced Force

The authors describe a high-resolution microscopy technique for the detection and characterization of chiral samples less than 100 nm in scale. Conventional techniques require a considerable amount of sample, and are vulnerable to background noise. The proposed photoinduced-force microscopy is based on near-field effects that are isolated from the background. Circularly polarized photons induce force on a cantilever, transferring optical activity from a chiral sample to an achiral probe. This technology has the potential to advance the control of constructive interaction between drugs and receptors in the human body.
Assessing Financial Reporting Quality of Family Firms: The Auditors’ Perspective

Prior studies provide conflicting evidence on the reporting/disclosure quality of family firms. We provide unique insights by analyzing the pricing of audit engagements. Because financial reporting quality affects audit risk, which determines how auditors price engagements, we analyze audit fees to extract auditor’s professional assessment of family firms’ reporting quality. Relative to non-family firms, we find that audit fees are significantly lower for family firms, which suggests that auditors view family firms as having superior financial reporting quality (i.e. audit risk is low). Because a fee discount might also be attributable to lower litigation risk, we analyze litigation data and find no reliable difference in auditor lawsuits between family and non-family firms. Finally, we provide corroborating evidence on the financial reporting quality of family firms based on three audit risk tests. First, using a financial reporting metric for audit risk, we show that audit risk is lower for family firms. Second, we show that the fee discount is lower for family firms with high audit risk. Third, using audit report lag as a proxy for audit effort, we show that family firm auditors work less to provide the desired level of assurance. Our findings provide compelling evidence in favor of the explanation that auditors charge less from family firms because of superior reporting quality, which lowers audit risk and, therefore, the need for greater audit investments.
Interferon Alpha-Expressing Oncolytic Adenovirus for Treatment of Esophageal Adenocarcinoma

Esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) has increased in incidence in Western countries, and its poor prognosis necessitates the development of novel therapeutics. We previously reported the potential of conditionally replicative adenoviruses (CRAd) as a novel therapeutic treatment for this disease. To further augment the therapeutic effectiveness of our cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox2) controlled CRAd in EAC, we inserted an interferon alpha (IFN) transgene into the viral genome that is expressed upon viral replication. In this manuscript, we analyze the cytotoxic and oncolytic effects of an IFN-expressing oncolytic adenovirus in EAC and the role of the Cox2 promoter in providing for selective replication in human tissues. An infectivity-enhanced IFN-expressing CRAd (5/3 Cox2 CRAd ΔE3 ADP IFN) and other control viruses were first tested in vitro with cell lines. For the in vivo study, EAC xenografts in nude mice were treated with a single intratumoral dose of virus. An ex vivo analysis with live tissue slices was conducted using surgically resected EAC patient specimens. Expression of IFN significantly enhanced the cytotoxic and oncolytic effect of a Cox2-promoter controlled CRAd. This virus showed significant tumor growth suppression in a xenograft model. Furthermore, in human EAC samples, the promoter-controlled virus demonstrated selective replication in cancerous tissues, leaving normal esophageal tissue unaffected. An IFN-expressing CRAd driven by the Cox2 promoter has strong oncolytic effects as well as cancer-specific replication. Our novel vector possesses critical characteristics that make it a potential candidate for clinical translation to treat EAC.
Encouraging long-term survival following autophagy inhibition using neoadjuvant hydroxychloroquine and gemcitabine for high-risk patients with resectable pancreatic carcinoma.

Introduction Preoperative autophagy inhibition with hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) in combination with gemcitabine in pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has been shown to be safe and effective in inducing a serum biomarker response and increase resection rates in a previous phase I/II clinical trial. We aimed to analyze the long-term outcomes of preoperative HCQ with gemcitabine for this cohort. Methods A review of patients enrolled between July 2010 and February 2013 in the completed phase I/II single arm (two doses of fixed-dose gemcitabine (1500 mg/m2 ) in combination with oral hydroxychloroquine administered for 31 consecutive days until the day of surgery for high-risk pancreatic cancer) was undertaken. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival analysis (OS) using Kaplan-Meier estimates were performed. Results Of 35 patients initially enrolled, 29 patients underwent surgical resection (median age at diagnosis: 62 years, 45% females). Median duration of follow-up was 7.5 years. There was a median 15% decrease in the serum CA19-9 levels following completion of neoadjuvant therapy and 83% of the cohort underwent a pancreaticoduodenectomy, 7 (24%) patients had a concomitant venous resection. On histopathology, 14 (48%) patients had at least a partial treatment response. The median PFS and OS were 11 months (95% Confidence interval [CI]: 7-28) and 31 months (95% CI: 13-47), respectively, while 9 (31%) patients survived beyond 5 years from diagnosis; a rate that compares very favorably with contemporaneous series. Conclusion Compared to historical data, neoadjuvant autophagy inhibition with HCQ plus gemcitabine is associated with encouraging long-term survival for patients with PDAC.
Screening of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) genotypes for waterlogging tolerance using morpho-physiological traits at early growth stage

Abstract The majority of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) produced in the USA is planted shortly after the summer rains and subsequently depends on rain or artificial irrigation. Therefore, excessive precipitation and poor soil drainage will cause cowpea plants to suffer temporary waterlogging, reducing the submerged tissue's oxygen level. Although cowpea is sensitive to waterlogging, excessive moisture can induce several morpho-physiological changes with adverse impacts on yield in its early stages of development. The current study subjected 30 cowpea genotypes to 10-days of waterlogging at the seedling stage under a controlled environment. The dynamic changes of 24 morpho-physiological parameters under waterlogging and optimal water conditions were analyzed to understand cowpea's response to waterlogging. Significant waterlogging treatment, cowpea genotypes, and their interactions (P
Orientation Responses of Ring-Billed Gull Chicks: A Re-Evaluation

The mean bearing for Ring-Billed Gull chicks tested in orientation cages correlates favorably with the direction in which they will head to reach the winter range. Previous studies indicated that geomagnetic cues alone were of importance in this process. Reanalysis of data from 3 500 trials has shown that under some conditions (1) directional shifts rather than disorientation may occur, and that (2) solar cues may be used as a supplemental source of information. Severe magnetic disturbance usually results in disorientation, regardless of sky conditions. Changes in apparatus design may significantly influence results, and this problem must be entertained during data interpretation.
A virtual point array for parabolic voltage interpolation

A method of increasing resolution among a set of DC voltages is presented. The circuit utilizes analog computation to interpolate between voltages with varying degrees of curvature or shift. In comparison to digital computational circuitry, improvements in space and system integration are achieved. The array enables the creation of unlimited (the practical number will be limited by transistor process variations) virtual points between real data points with little to no separation. Experimental fits with true parabolic behavior have correlation coefficients R/sup 2/ higher than 0.97. Application to sensing tasks such as improving spectroscopic resolution of photodetector channel outputs are proposed.
Dynamic Relations Between Macroeconomic Factors and the Jordanian Stock Market

Previous research has hypothesized the existence of a long-term equilibrium relation between stock prices and certain macroeconomic variables. The vector error correction model (VECM) (Johansen (1991)) is utilized to determine the impact of selected macroeconomic variables on Amman Stock Exchange (ASE). The variables are the real economic activity, money supply, inflation, and interest rate. The empirical results show that the stock prices and macroeconomics variables have a long-term equilibrium relation.
Aspects of Husserl’s Philosophy of Logic à propos his Logic Lectures of 1906–7

I propose to preface this lecture on Husserl’s philosophy of logic by a few preliminary and elementary remarks on the problems in philosophy of logic which concerned Husserl and on the deeper philosophical reasons for that concern.
Reflected Brownian Motions

The process \( |B| \) is called the reflection of the Brownian motion B at zero. By (8.1), the pair \( (|B|,L) \) is almost surely the solution of a certain problem of reflection for \( \hat{B} \), discussed in Section 8.2. This yields an alternative representation, directly in terms of \( \hat{B} \), for L and hence for \( |B| \) The Ito formula will be used in Section 8.3, to make the connection with the analytical theory of this alternative representation.
Shorter (≤6 months) versus longer (≥12 months) duration dual antiplatelet therapy after drug eluting stents: A meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

Objective Optimal duration of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT), defined as use of both aspirin and a P2Y12 receptor inhibitor, after implantation of drug eluting stents (DES) is still subject of ongoing debate. We systematically review efficacy and safety of ≤6 months versus ≥12 months DAPT after implantation of DES. Methods PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and clinicaltrials.gov databases were searched for studies published until 30th November 2013. The studies were limited to randomized clinical trials. Independent observers abstracted the data on outcomes, characteristics, and qualities of studies included. Random effect model was employed for meta-analysis. Heterogeneity of studies included was analyzed using I2 statistics. Results In four randomized clinical trials published involving 8,163 patients with DES, 4,081 patients were randomized to shorter and 4,082 patients to longer duration DAPT. The P2Y12 receptor inhibitor used in all four studies was clopidogrel. Longer duration of DAPT did not reduce risk of all cause mortality (pooled OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.67–1.17, P = 0.4, I2 = 0%), myocardial infarction (pooled OR 1.16, 95% CI 0.85–1.57, P = 0.35, I2 = 0%) cardiac death (pooled OR 0.88, 95% CI 0.61–1.25, P = 0.47, I2 = 0%), stent thrombosis (pooled OR 1.29, 95% CI 0.76–2.21, P = 0.35, I2 = 0%) or cerebrovascular accidents (pooled OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.41–1.27, P = 0.26, I2 = 0%). Longer duration of DAPT was associated with increased risk of TIMI major bleeding (pooled OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.29–0.89, P = 0.02, I2 = 0%). Conclusion There was no difference in efficacy outcomes between ≤6 months of DAPT and ≥12 months of DAPT in patients with coronary artery disease and DES implantation. Moreover, longer duration of DAPT is associated with increased risk of bleeding complications. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Clinical PhD Graduate Student Views of Their Scientist‐Practitioner Training

Objectives The goal of the scientist-practitioner (S-P) training model is to produce clinical psychologists equipped to integrate and utilize both science and practice in the clinical and research domains. However, much has been written regarding the possible shortcomings of S-P training and whether clinical psychology graduate students are actually gaining the knowledge and skills to integrate science and practice during graduate training and beyond (Chang, Lee, & Hargreaves, 2008; Gelso, 2006; Merlo, Collins, & Bernstein, 2008; Phillips, 1993). Methods As such, the present study assessed ratings of satisfaction, perception of ability, and use of the S-P training model within 653 clinical psychology graduate students enrolled in programs that are members of the Council of University Directors of Clinical Psychology. Results Findings suggest that students are consistently trained in the integration of science and practice and have confidence in their abilities to apply the S-P integration to research and clinical work. However, despite understanding the ways in which science can influence practice, over one third of students reported that they rarely use science-based decisions when informing clients of the clinical services they will be providing. Conclusions The implications of these results support the need for a more detailed evaluation of clinical psychology graduate students as well as the use of research-informed practice and the process of providing clients with information they need to make informed choices about treatment.
Horizontal mechanisms under differing IS organization contexts

Horizontal mechanisms are structural overlays (such as roles and groups) and non-structural devices (such as physical co-location) that are designed to facilitate cross-unit collaboration. The objective of this study is to increase our cumulative knowledge about what top-down mechanisms are being used to promote the coordination of IS activities across corporate/division boundaries. Propositions about how mechanism usage differs under Centralized versus Federal IS organization contexts are developed based on a synthesis of prior organization science and empirical IS literature. Multiple methods are used to collect data from IS and non-IS senior managers from two case sites with theoretically different IS coordination needs. As predicted, multiple types of structural and non-structural mechanisms were implemented for business-IS coordination in the company with a Centralized IS context, and for corporate IS-decentralized IS coordination in the company with a Federal IS context. An unexpected finding was that mechanisms for both of these kinds of IS coordination were valued at each case site. The prediction that a formal group mechanism would be perceived as more effective for achieving cross-unit coordination than an integrator role mechanism was not supported. The article concludes with a discussion of implications for research and practice.
The Underground Economy of Fake Antivirus Software

Fake antivirus (AV) programs have been utilized to defraud millions of computer users into paying as much as one hundred dollars for a phony software license. As a result, fake AV software has evolved into one of the most lucrative criminal operations on the Internet. In this paper, we examine the operations of three large-scale fake AV businesses, lasting from three months to more than two years. More precisely, we present the results of our analysis on a trove of data obtained from several backend servers that the cybercriminals used to drive their scam operations. Our investigations reveal that these three fake AV businesses had earned a combined revenue of more than $130 million dollars. A particular focus of our analysis is on the financial and economic aspects of the scam, which involves legitimate credit card networks as well as more dubious payment processors. In particular, we present an economic model that demonstrates that fake AV companies are actively monitoring the refunds (chargebacks) that customers demand from their credit card providers. When the number of chargebacks increases in a short interval, the fake AV companies react to customer complaints by granting more refunds. This lowers the rate of chargebacks and ensures that a fake AV company can stay in business for a longer period of time.9pc]First author has been considered as the corresponding author. Please check. However, this behavior also leads to unusual patterns in chargebacks, which can potentially be leveraged by vigilant payment processors and credit card companies to identify and ban fraudulent firms.
The Role of Behavior Therapy in Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a lethal hereditary disorder affecting approximately 1 in 1500 Caucasian births in the United States (Bowman & Mango, 1976). It presents a special challenge to the pediatric health care community because of the lethality, complexity, and unknown cause of the disease. CF may affect several organ systems, including respiratory, gastrointestinal (GI), pancreas, kidney, and reproduction (Matthews & Drotar, 1984). The exocrine glands of these various organ systems produce an abnormal mucus that is thick, viscous, and sticky. The most serious complications of the disease involves abnormal mucus production in the lungs and pancreas.
Who are we? The impacts of anthropomorphism and the humanization of nonprofits on brand personality

In recent years, research on the impact of an organization’s brand personality has increased dramatically. Scholars have devoted significant time to devising multiple methods of measuring brand personality, but have often ignored anthropomorphism, an approach favored by anthropologists and sociologists. By attributing human characteristics and traits to non-human entities, such as organizations, personalities are assigned to the brand. Scholars have found that organizations with brand personalities that resembled the consumer were more likely to see customer loyalty and increased sales from the consumer. Nonprofit scholars have identified brand personalities of well-known nonprofit organizations and have linked their brand personalities to fundraising contributions and intentions to donate. This study furthers brand personality studies pertaining to nonprofit organizations by using a intercept survey of 240 adults in the Southeastern United States to determine what the anthropomorphized version of nonprofit organizations would be. Additionally, the perceived version of the nonprofit is compared with the participants’ own demographics data to determine the level of social distance the individual has with the individual they imagine when they think about the nonprofits. Results of the study indicate that the greater the social distance between the individual and the nonprofit, the more likely the individual will not become involved with volunteering, donating, or information-seeking behaviors. The implications of these findings are discussed with a focus on what marketing practitioners can do to craft messages and design community outreach efforts to improve their brand personality and how the public perceives their nonprofit organization.
Comparison of clinical and magnetic resonance imaging diagnoses in patients with disk displacement in the temporomandibular joint

Abstract Objective. The purpose of this study was to validate the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD) for the diagnostic subgroup of disk displacement with reduction, with magnetic resonance imaging used as a gold standard. Study design. The diagnoses from the clinical examination of 78 joints in 39 patients, each with disk displacement with reduction in at least one TMJ, were compared with magnetic resonance imaging diagnoses. The readers of the magnetic resonance images were blinded to the clinical diagnoses. The data analysis included kappa statistics and calculation of predictive values. Results. The predictive value of the RDC/TMD for disk displacement with reduction was 0.65. For disk displacement alone—the movement of the disk on opening not being considered—the predictive value was 0.92. The diagnostic agreement between RDC/TMD and magnetic resonance imaging diagnoses for all joints examined was 53.8%. Most of the disagreement was due to false negative clinical diagnoses for asymptomatic joints. Conclusions. A positive RDC/TMD examination is predictive for internal derangement but not reliable with regard to the type of disk displacement; such examination is therefore of limited value in determining the true disk position and its functional movements. (Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol Endod 1999;88: 37-43)
Streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice are resistant to lethal effects of thioacetamide hepatotoxicity.

The effect of Type 1 diabetes on the toxicity of thioacetamide was investigated in a murine model. In streptozotocin-induced diabetic C57BL6 mice a LD90 dose of thioacetamide (1000 mg/kg, ip in saline) caused only 10% mortality. Alanine aminotransferase activity revealed approximately 2.7-fold less liver injury in the diabetic (DB) mice compared to the non-DB controls, at 36 h after thioacetamide (TA) administration, which was confirmed via histopathological analysis. HPLC analyses revealed lower plasma t(1/2) of TA in the DB mice. Covalent binding of [(14)C]TA to liver tissue was lower in the DB mice, suggesting lower bioactivation of TA. Compensatory hepatic S-phase stimulation as assessed by [(3)H]thymidine incorporation occurred much earlier and was substantially higher in the DB mice compared to the non-DB cohorts. Morphometric analysis of cells in various phases of cell division assessed via immunohistochemical staining for proliferating cell nuclear antigen revealed more cells in G(1), S, G(2), and M phases in the DB mice, indicating robust tissue repair in concordance with the findings of [(3)H]thymidine pulse labeling studies. The importance of tissue repair in the resistance of DB mice was further investigated by blocking cell division in the DB mice by colchicine (1 mg/kg, ip) at 40 h after TA administration, well after the bioactivation of TA. Antimitotic action of colchicine, confirmed by decreased S-phase stimulation, led to progression of liver injury and increased mortality in DB mice. These findings suggest that lower bioactivation of TA and early onset of liver tissue repair are the pivotal underpinnings for the resistance of DB mice.
Measured sucrose preference in the albino rat: The influence of an auditory cue

Data is presented to support a contention that the measured preferences for sapid solutions may be enhanced by association with non-gustatory cues. Albino rats were given a two-bottle preference test for various concentrations of sucrose compared with distilled water. The measured preference for sucrose at lower concentrations was increased when white noise was paired with the sucrose.