cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
CONSUMER EVALUATION OF SOY INGREDIENT–CONTAINING COOKIES

The objective of this study was to evaluate consumer acceptability of cookies prepared using four different soy ingredients including two types of extruded and expelled soy flours (INTSOY and Insta-Pro), a soy protein isolate and a soy protein concentrate. Chocolate chip cookies were prepared replacing 20% of the wheat flour with the soy ingredient. Cookies were evaluated by 75 consumers for color, flavor, texture and overall liking using a 9-point hedonic scale. Data were subjected to ANOVA. Flavor scores of cookies prepared with INTSOY texturized soy protein were significantly higher (7.2) than those of the other three types of cookies (<6.6). There were significant interactions between the degree of color liking of cookies and gender (P < 0.01) and overall liking of cookies and age (P < 0.01). Women liked isolate-containing cookie color better than men; no gender difference existed between other treatments. Consumers over 41 years of age gave Insta-Pro containing cookies higher overall liking scores than other cookies while no difference existed between cookie treatments for consumers between 26 and 40 years of age. The mean scores for color, texture, flavor and overall evaluation for all four cookies were between 6 (like slightly) and 7 (like moderately) on a 9-point scale, indicating that the panel, in general, liked the cookies somewhat, however, room for improvement existed.
Zinc Replenishment Reverses Overexpression of the Proinflammatory Mediator S100A8 and Esophageal Preneoplasia in the Rat

Background & Aims Zinc deficiency is implicated in the pathogenesis of human esophageal cancer. In the rat esophagus, it induces cell proliferation, modulates genetic expression, and enhances carcinogenesis. Zinc-replenishment reverses proliferation and inhibits carcinogenesis. The zinc-deficient rat model allows the identification of biological differences affected by zinc during early esophageal carcinogenesis. Methods We evaluated gene expression profiles of esophageal epithelia from zinc-deficient and replenished rats vs zinc-sufficient rats using microarray analysis. We characterized the role of the top–up-regulated gene S100A8 in esophageal hyperplasia/reversal and in chemically induced esophageal carcinogenesis in zinc-modulated animals by immunohistochemistry and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Results The hyperplastic-deficient esophagus has a distinct expression signature with the proinflammation genes S100 calcium binding protein A8 (S100A8) and A9 (S100A9) up-regulated 57-fold and 5-fold, respectively. Zinc replenishment rapidly restored to control levels the expression of S100A8/A9 and 27 other genes and reversed the hyperplastic phenotype. With its receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), colocalization and overexpression of S100A8 protein occurred in the deficient esophagus that overexpressed nuclear factor κΒ p65 and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) protein. Zinc replenishment, but not a COX-2 inhibitor, reduced the overexpression of these 4 proteins. Additionally, esophageal S100A8/A9 messenger RNA levels were associated directly with the diverse tumorigenic outcome in zinc-deficient and zinc-replenished rats. Conclusions In vivo zinc regulates S100A8 expression and modulates the link between S100A8–RAGE interaction and downstream nuclear factor κΒ/COX-2 signaling. The finding that zinc regulates an inflammatory pathway in esophageal carcinogenesis may lead to prevention and therapy for this cancer.
Which Is More Productive, Writing in Binge Patterns of Creative Illness or in Moderation?.

The author reviews traditional beliefs about creative illness and suggests that their endorsement of euphoric bingeing misleads writers. Productive creativity seems to occur more reliably with moderation of work duration and of emotions, not with the fatigue and ensuing depression of binge writing. The author compares binge writers to a matched sample of novice professors who wrote in brief, daily sessions and with generally mild emotions. Binge writers (a) accomplished far less writing overall, (b) got fewer editorial acceptances, (c) scored higher on the Beck Depression Inventory, and (d) listed fewer creative ideas for writing. These data suggest that creative illness, defined by its common emotional state for binge writers (i.e., hypomania and its rushed euphoria brought on by long, intense sessions of working—followed by depression), offers more problems (e.g., working in an emotional, rushed, fatiguing fashion) than magic. The example of Joseph Conrad supports these findings.
Targeting Breast Cancer Stem Cells

The cancer stem cell (CSC) hypothesis postulates that tumors are maintained by a self-renewing CSC population that is also capable of differentiating into non-self-renewing cell populations that constitute the bulk of the tumor. Although, the CSC hypothesis does not directly address the cell of origin of cancer, it is postulated that tissue-resident stem or progenitor cells are the most common targets of transformation. Clinically, CSCs are predicted to mediate tumor recurrence after chemo- and radiation-therapy due to the relative inability of these modalities to effectively target CSCs. If this is the case, then CSC must be efficiently targeted to achieve a true cure. Similarities between normal and malignant stem cells, at the levels of cell-surface proteins, molecular pathways, cell cycle quiescence, and microRNA signaling present challenges in developing CSC-specific therapeutics. Approaches to targeting CSCs include the development of agents targeting known stem cell regulatory pathways as well as unbiased high-throughput siRNA or small molecule screening. Based on studies of pathways present in normal stem cells, recent work has identified potential “Achilles heals” of CSC, whereas unbiased screening provides opportunities to identify new pathways utilized by CSC as well as develop potential therapeutic agents. Here, we review both approaches and their potential to effectively target breast CSC.
Wealth Effects Of Bank Mergers And Acquisitions In Asian Emerging Markets

Through analysis of stock responses to two different types of banking M&A deals, specifying M&A and diversifying M&A, we find that specifying M&A deals incur positive cumulative abnormal returns (CAR) in both two-day and three-day windows without controlling for firm size. Diversifying M&A deals incur positive CAR in two different event windows. However, the differences between the two windows are not statistically significant. Contrary to previous studies on M&A in the banking industry of developed markets, the results of our study indicate that markets do not distinguish among various types of M&A deals in the banking industry around the date of announcement. Diversifying M&A generate positive three-day CARs but they are not significantly better than specifying M&A.
Social Networks of the Internal Combustion Engine and Automobile

We describe the network of contributors to the creation of the internal combustion engine and its effects on the early automotive industry. This example has links to the aviation network of invention [Chap. 4] as well as to mathematical Chaos Theory [Chap. 6]
AI-21HIF-1A TARGETING IN AN ORTHOTOPIC XENOGRAFT MODEL THAT RECAPITULATES THE HYPOXIC MICROENVIRONMENT OF GLIOBLASTOMA.

INTRODUCTION: Tissue hypoxia and necrosis represent a pathological hallmark of glioblastoma. Hypoxia inducible factor 1a (HIF-1a) plays crucial roles in the malignant phenotypes of glioblastoma, and may offer a therapeutic target. However, developing HIF-1a targeted agents has been hampered by the lack of a preclinical model that recapitulates the disease relevant hypoxic microenvironment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: MGG123 neurosphere culture was established from a surgical specimen of a recurrent glioblastoma. Tumorigenicity of MGG123 cells was assessed by orthotopic xenografting in SCID-mice. The original tumor and xenografts were characterized by H&E staining and immunohistochemistry for HIF-1a, MIB-1, CD34, nestin and CD44. Hypoxic foci within xenografts were detected by pimonidazole immunofluorescence. In vitro, HIF-1a expression was evaluated by Western blot under normoxia and hypoxia after treatment with Digoxin and Ouabain, shown to inhibit HIF-1a synthesis. In vivo, mice bearing intracerebral MGG123 tumors were treated with intraperitoneal injections of digoxin, and its effects on HIF-1a expression, CD34+ vasculature, and overall survival were examined. RESULTS: MGG123 cells generated aggressive orthotopic xenografts that contain foci of pseudopalisading necrosis. The patient and xenografted tumors showed histopathological similarities as they both have high MIB-1 indices and are diffusely positive for CD44 and nestin. HIF-1a immunopositivity was specifically found in peudopalisading cells surrounding necrosis in both tumors. Within the xenografts, hypoxic areas were never found within 50mm proximity to CD34+ blood vessels. Hypoxia enhanced HIF-1a expression in cultured MGG123, and this was abrogated by treatment with Digoxin or Ouabain. In vivo, digoxin decreased HIF-1a expression and CD34+ vasculature within orthotopic MGG123 tumors, and extended overall survival of brain tumor-bearing mice. CONCLUSION: We established a preclinical glioblastoma model that uniquely mirrors the hypoxic microenvironment of human glioblastoma, and is suitable for developing HIF-1a targeted agents. Digoxin down-regulated HIF-1a and angiogenesis and increased overall survival in this clinically relevant glioblastoma model.
Staphylococcus Citreus in the Fowl, Case Report

Abstract A local broiler producer (in northwest Arkansas) * suffered losses in two month old birds in which the causative agent was probably Staphylococcus citreus. This organism was.isolated in pure culture from keel cysts and from the liver of birds dying of the disease. The low pathogenicity attributed to Staphylococcus citreus by pathologists makes this report desirable. It will appear, however, that other factors enter into the pathogenicity of the organism involved. The house in which these birds were produced was constructed on the north side of a steep hill, convenience for the producer being the first consideration. The floor was of wire, with from one to four feet to the ground. The high side was to the north, and therefore favorable to draft with north winds. The wire floor of hexagonal chicken wire was supported by heavier fencing wire. The fencing wire had twist joints, which often presented a jagged point, . . .
Computational Study of Directed Self-Assembly in Neutral Prepatterns for a Graphoepitaxial Pitch-Multiplication Application

We use self-consistent field theory to investigate the directed self-assembly of cylinder-forming block copolymers for the purpose of a graphoepitaxial pitch multiplication. We focus in particular on conditions where two minor-block cylinders form inside confining rounded templates with neutral sidewalls and substrates. In addition to perfect cylinders, various defective morphologies can also self-assemble in the guiding templates. According to SCFT simulations, the formation energy of defects is typically above 20kT, or fewer than 2 defects per billion structures. We also use calculations based on the string method to explore the most probable transition pathways during the melting of defects into perfect cylinders. From our string calculations, the kinetic barrier associated with the melting process is often less 1.5kT, suggesting relatively short annealing times for the complete removal of defects.
Differences in scaling and morphology between lumbricid earthworm ecotypes.

ABSTRACT Many soft-bodied invertebrates use a flexible, fluid-filled hydrostatic skeleton for burrowing. The aim of our study was to compare the scaling and morphology between surface-dwelling and burrowing earthworm ecotypes to explore the specializations of non-rigid musculoskeletal systems for burrowing locomotion. We compared the scaling of adult lumbricid earthworms across species and ecotypes to determine whether linear dimensions were significantly associated with ecotype. We also compared the ontogenetic scaling of a burrowing species, Lumbricus terrestris , and a surface-dwelling species, Eisenia fetida , using glycol methacrylate histology. We show that burrowing species are longer, thinner and have higher length-to-diameter ratios than non-burrowers, and that L. terrestris is thinner for any given body mass compared with E. fetida . We also found differences in the size of the musculature between the two species that may correlate with surface crawling or burrowing . Our results suggest that adaptations to burrowing for soft-bodied animals include a disproportionately thin body and strong longitudinal muscles.
Integrating regulatory information via combinatorial control of the transcription cycle

Combinatorial regulation of gene expression by multiple transcription factors (TFs) enables cells to carry out sophisticated computations that are key to cellular decision-making. How is the information contained in multiple TF binding sites integrated to dictate the rate of transcription? The dominant model is that direct or indirect physical interactions between TFs enable them to combinatorially recruit each other and RNA polymerase to the promoter. Here we develop a quantitative framework to explore an alternative model, where combinatorial gene regulation can result from TFs working on different kinetic steps of the transcription cycle. Our results clarify the null hypotheses for independent action of TFs and show that combinatorial control of the transcription cycle can generate a wide range of analog and Boolean computations without requiring the input regulators to be simultaneously co-localized in the nucleus. This work emphasizes the importance of deciphering TF function beyond activation and repression, highlights the role of the basal promoter in processing regulatory information and suggests qualitative explanations for the flexibility of regulatory evolution.
Neurologic Complications in Treated HIV-1 Infection

Effective combination antiretroviral therapy has transformed HIV infection into a chronic disease, with HIV-infected individuals living longer and reaching older age. Neurological disease remains common in treated HIV, however, due in part to ongoing inflammation and immune activation that persist in chronic infection. In this review, we highlight recent developments in our understanding of several clinically relevant neurologic complications that can occur in HIV infection despite treatment, including HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders, symptomatic CSF escape, cerebrovascular disease, and peripheral neuropathy.
Juxtaglomerular cells cultured on a reconstituted basement membrane

Circulating renin levels are regulated by release from juxtaglomerular (JG) cells. Here, for the first time, we describe the primary culture of rat juxtaglomerular cells on a reconstituted basement membrane. In addition, primary cultures were transformed with a temperature-sensitive SV40 large T antigen gene to promote the development of a continuous JG cell line. Both primary cultures and transformed JG cells maintain a highly differentiated state and secrete active renin. These preparations now provide a system in which characterization of the cellular mechanisms of regulation of renin synthesis and release is possible.
CD4+ T cells confer anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects, but enhance fear memory processes in Rag2−/− mice

AbstractAccumulating evidence supports a role of T cells in behavioral stress responsiveness. Our laboratory previously reported that lymphocyte deficient Rag2−/− mice on a BALB/c background display resilience to maladaptive stress responses when compared with immune competent mice in the predator odor exposure (POE) paradigm, while exhibiting similar behavior in a cued fear-conditioning (FC) paradigm. In the present study, Rag2−/− mice on a C57BL/6 background were assessed in the same behavioral paradigms, as well as additional tests of anxiety and depressive-like behavior. Furthermore, the effects of naive CD4+ T cells were evaluated by adoptive transfer of functional cells from nonstressed, wild-type donors to Rag2−/− mice. Consistent with our prior results, Rag2−/− mice displayed an attenuated startle response after POE. Nevertheless, reconstitution of Rag2−/− mice with CD4+ T cells did not modify startle reactivity. Additionally, in contrast with our previous findings, Rag2−/− mice showed attenuate...
Characterizing JONSWAP rogue waves and their statistics via inverse spectral data

Abstract Rogue waves in random sea states modeled by the JONSWAP power spectrum are high amplitude waves arising over non-uniform backgrounds that cannot be viewed as small amplitude modulations of Stokes waves. In the context of Nonlinear Schrodinger (NLS) models for waves in deep water, this poses the challenge of identifying appropriate analytical solutions for JONSWAP rogue waves, investigating possible mechanisms for their formation, and examining the validity of the NLS models in these more realistic settings. In this work we investigate JONSWAP rogue waves using the inverse spectral theory of the periodic NLS equation for moderate values of the period. For typical JONSWAP initial data, numerical experiments show that the developing sea state is well approximated by the first few dominant modes of the nonlinear spectrum and can be described in terms of a 2- or 3-phase periodic NLS solution. As for the case of uniform backgrounds, proximity to instabilities of the underlying 2-phase solution appears to be the main predictor of rogue wave occurrence, suggesting that the modulational instability of 2-phase solutions of the NLS is a main mechanism for rogue wave formation and that heteroclinic orbits of unstable 2-phase solutions are plausible models of JONSWAP rogue waves. To support this claim, we correlate the maximum wave strength as well as the higher statistical moments with elements of the nonlinear spectrum. The result is a diagnostic tool widely applicable to both model or field data for predicting the likelihood of rogue waves. Finally, we examine the validity of NLS models for JONSWAP data, and show that NLS solutions with JONSWAP initial data are described by non-Gaussian statistics, in agreement with the TOPEX field studies of sea surface height variability.
Documenting Demonization in the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

Based on a collection of illustrative examples, the chapter documents instances of demonization between Israeli and Palestinian elites using the probing question: “Who demonized whom, when and how?” Normand provides a prima facie sense of the demonizing narratives in the conflict and places them into the context of Israeli and Palestinian ideologies and historical experiences. The chapter also show how each side’s demonizing discourse appears in different contexts of perceived evils: while Palestinian demonization of Israelis must be understood in the context of their own colonial experiences, Israeli demonization of Palestinians must be understood in the context of their own experiences of security concerns and terrorism. The same speech act was therefore used to express different evil experiences of the same conflict.
Emerging Renewable Energy Sources

The United States is the world’s largest user of energy. Most of energy production is based on fossil fuels: oil, gas, and coal. These are resources are going to eventually run out. Since energy production goes up year by year, the rate at which these fuels are burned is also increasing. It is therefore necessary that we invest time and money into researching and developing new renewable energy resources. Discussion of these sources includes the following: • Ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC): schemes, advantages, and disadvantages
A hybrid Markov random field model for bilevel cutset reconstruction

We propose a hybrid Markov random field (MRF) model and a two stage cutset-MRF approach for reconstructing bilevel images from cutsets. We show that the proposed approach leads to substantial improvements over previous cutset-MRF approaches in terms of both reconstruction error and visual quality (continuity of reconstructed segments and preservation of image structure). The proposed approach approaches the performance of pattern-based approaches without the additional memory requirements and training overhead. We also show that it outperforms inpainting approaches adapted to bilevel cutset reconstruction.
Circadian Regulation by the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus

In mammals, the circadian timekeeping system consists of multiple, cell-autonomous clocks that are prevalent throughout the body. The suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hypothalamus is the master clock that links environmental time cues to local processes. Peripheral tissues and other brain regions also harbor molecular components of the circadian timekeeping mechanism found in the SCN and these clockworks provide for the organization of tissue- or cell-specific activities in time. Despite the widespread distribution of the canonical clockworks, only the SCN is capable of pacing the oscillations of circadian clocks in other cells and tissues. Output signals responsible for the coupling between cell-autonomous clocks in the SCN and/or the coordination of circadian oscillations in peripheral clocks may be specific to the SCN and necessary for its circadian pacemaker function. These critical outputs of the SCN circadian pacemaker are diffusible or humoral factors. Several SCN outputs essential for the circadian regulation of wheel-running behavior have been identified, but the diffusible signals responsible for pacing other circadian oscillations are unknown.
Vegetation Attached to the Left Interatrial Septal Surface at the Congenital Location of the Foramen Ovale: A Rare Occurrence

BACKGROUND Non-valvular mural infective endocarditis (IE) is a rare bacterial growth on cardiac walls. Several risk factors have been reported. Echocardiography is an important diagnostic modality for diagnosing vegetation attached to the intracardiac walls. CASE REPORT We present the case of a 57-year-old man admitted with Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia due to an infected tunnelled hemodialyses catheter. Transthoracic echocardiogram did not show any abnormality, but transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) revealed a 1.7×0.8 cm mobile echo-density attached to the surface of the interatrial septum in the left atrium, where the foramen ovale (FO) exists in utero. The patient was transferred to another facility for re-do sternotomy cardiac surgery, where these findings were confirmed intraoperatively. A biopsy of the mass was taken, which confirmed it to be a vegetation attached to the FO. CONCLUSIONS We report the first case in the literature of vegetation attached to the surface of the interatrial septum in the left atrium at the congenital location of the foramen ovale. There have been no previously reported cases in the literature with such novel imaging findings.
An Analysis of How Neurology Trainees Select Neurology Fellowships (P2.355)

Objective: Discover how neurology trainees select fellowships in the United States. Background: Past AAN surveys indicate that the majority of neurology residents attend fellowships after residency. A formal evaluation of which factors influence members’ selection of fellowships has not been performed. This survey sought to answer this question from the perspective of current residents, current fellows and those who recently completed fellowship. Methods: Using AAN’s membership database, participants were sent an invitation to complete a survey based on the following criteria: 1) a current member of AAN as of September 2015; 2) a resident in Post Graduate Year-3 or -4, a current fellow, or those who completed a fellowship within the past two years; 3) located in the United States; 4) have not received an AAN survey in the past 6 months; and 5) have a valid email address on file. Frequencies were tabulated for all questions and a rank sum score was used to evaluate how respondents ranked their top three choices for factors that influenced fellowship selection. Results: Of the 805 members who responded, the top three ranked factors for influencing the selection of fellowships were: 1) clinical interest, 2) personal interest, and 3) research interest. As seen in past AAN surveys, role models continue to play an important role in influencing fellowship decisions (ranked 4th). Exposure to the fellowship or subspecialty area emerged in the open-ended comments as another important factor in influencing fellowship decisions. Conclusions: Interest in the topic (whether it is clinical, personal or research), appears to be the most important factor in choosing a fellowship. Results also indicate there is a lack of exposure to fellowship and subspecialty areas during neurology residency training; lack of exposure may prevent trainees from selecting certain fellowships, and future AAN resident surveys should further examine this paucity. Disclosure: Dr. Cahill has nothing to disclose.
416. Immunotherapy of Hepatocellular Carcinoma With T Cells Engineered To Express Glypican-3-Specific Chimeric Antigen Receptors

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer and the third most common cause of cancer-related death worldwide, with no curative therapies for unresectable HCC. Glypican-3 (GPC3), a membrane bound heparan sulfate proteoglycan is selectively expressed on HCC and has recently emerged as an attractive target for immunotherapy. GPC3-specific monoclonal antibody, GC33 has been shown to be safe in recent a Phase 1 clinical study. However, objective clinical responses to GC33 treatment were modest and transient. We hypothesized that the therapeutic efficacy of GPC3-targeting immunotherapy can be enhanced by combining the specificity of GC33 mAb with the advantages of adoptive cell therapy. To that end, we generated T cells genetically engineered to express GPC3 specific chimeric antigen receptors (GPC3 CARs).The signaling parts of GPC3 CAR constructs contained CD3ζ chain only (1st generation), with CD28 or 4-1BB (2nd generation), or both (3d generation) costimulatory endodomains. We found that GPC3 CAR T cells efficiently and specifically killed GPC3-positive HCC cell lines in vitro (figure 1); released IL-2 and IFN-γ, and proliferated in response to stimulation by HCC cell lines. View Large Image | Download PowerPoint SlideThe 2nd and 3rd generation GPC3 CARs induced superior killing, cytokine release and T cell expansion compared to 1st generation GPC3 CAR. Importantly, 2nd and 3rd generation GPC3 CAR T cells demonstrated curative antitumor activity by eliminating established orthotopic GPC3-positive Huh-7 xenografts in NOD/SCID/IL2gnull (NSG) mice. View Large Image | Download PowerPoint SlideThe results provide justification for testing safety and efficacy of GPC3 CAR T cells in a Phase 1/2a clinical trial in HCC patients.
Stability Analysis of Two Parallel Converters With Voltage–Current Droop Control

Voltage–current ( V–I ) droop control has been proposed for real and reactive power sharing. Compared with the conventional droop control using real power/frequency and reactive power/voltage, it enhances stability since adding a V–I droop is equivalent to providing a resistor. However, for a system with parallel converters with V–I droops, oscillations are observed when small droop coefficients are adopted. In this paper, a multi-input multioutput (MIMO) model of the system is derived in the frequency domain. This model is based on the $dq$ -reference frame and consists of converter control and the power network model, which is represented by an admittance matrix. Linear system analysis is carried out to identify the root causes of oscillations in both grid-connected mode and autonomous mode. Analysis results are validated by simulation results of detailed model-based systems built in Matlab/Simpowersystems.
q -Hypergeometric Series and Macdonald Functions

We derive a duality formula for two-row Macdonald functions by studying their relation with basic hypergeometric functions. We introduce two parameter vertex operators to construct a family of symmetric functions generalizing Hall-Littlewood functions. Their relation with Macdonald functions is governed by a very well-poised q-hypergeometric functions of type 4Φ3, for which we obtain linear transformation formulas in terms of the Jacobi theta function and the q-Gamma function. The transformation formulas are then used to give the duality formula and a new formula for two-row Macdonald functions in terms of the vertex operators. The Jack polynomials are also treated accordingly.
Risk of ESRD and Mortality Associated With Change in Filtration Markers.

Background Using change in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) based on creatinine concentration as a surrogate outcome in clinical trials of chronic kidney disease has been proposed. Risk for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and all-cause mortality associated with change in concentrations of other filtration markers has not been studied in chronic kidney disease populations. Study Design Observational analysis of 2 clinical trials. Setting & Participants Participants in the MDRD (Modification of Diet in Renal Disease; n=317) Study and AASK (African American Study of Kidney Disease and Hypertension; n=373). Predictors Creatinine, cystatin C, β-trace protein (BTP), and β 2 -microglobulin (B2M) were measured in serum samples collected at the 12- and 24-month follow-up visits, along with measured GFR (mGFR) at these time points. Outcomes ESRD and all-cause mortality. Measurements Poisson regression was used to estimate incidence rate ratios and 95% CIs for ESRD and all-cause mortality during long-term follow-up (10-16 years) per 30% decline in mGFR or eGFR for each filtration marker and the average of all 4 markers. Results 1-year decline in mGFR, eGFR cr , eGFR BTP , and the average of the 4 filtration markers was significantly associated with increased risk for incident ESRD in both studies (all P ≤0.02). Compared to mGFR, only decline in eGFR BTP was statistically significantly more strongly associated with ESRD risk in both studies (both P ≤0.03). Decline in eGFR cr , but not mGFR or the other filtration markers, was significantly associated with risk for all-cause mortality in AASK only (incidence rate ratio per 30% decline, 4.17; 95% CI, 1.78-9.74; P P =0.2). Limitations Small sample size. Conclusions Declines in mGFR, eGFR cr , eGFR BTP , and the average of 4 filtration markers (creatinine, cystatin C, BTP, and B2M) were consistently associated with progression to ESRD.
The Benefits, Drawbacks, and Challenges of Using the Flipped Classroom in an Introduction to Psychology Course:

Flipped pedagogy has become a popular approach in education. While preliminary research suggests that the flipped classroom has a positive effect on learning in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics and quantitative courses, the research on the flipped classroom in a content heavy social science course is minimal and contradictory. We flipped four class topics in an introduction to psychology course, evaluated resulting student attitudes, and compared students’ performance on the flipped units to their performance on traditionally delivered content. We found mixed results for the effectiveness of the flipped classroom that were moderated by student characteristics and experiences with previous online or flipped courses. Students reported an overall preference for traditional classroom delivery but suggested retaining the flipped approach for some class periods.
Use of information and communication technology to support comprehensive disaster management in the Caribbean countries

ABSTRACTThis article describes the use of information and communication technology (ICT) to support comprehensive disaster management (CDM) in the Caribbean Community region. An integrative model of ICT business value was used to investigate the relationship between ICT resources and contributions to CDM. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with managers of national disaster organizations (NDO) in 17 participating countries of the Caribbean region. Organizational documents were also reviewed. Conclusions include: (a) only a few NDOs articulated strategies for developing their ICT capabilities; (b) only a few countries engaged in a systematic planning for the effective use of ICT for CDM; and (c) several NDOs conceded that they were not fully utilizing the available ICT resources.
Mesothelin-fc fusion protein detection using a novel microelectronic acoustic sensor platform

A26 Advances in the proteomics of cancer proliferation are yielding many new potential targets, or biomarkers, for identifying a malignancy at the earliest stages of development. These markers have been difficult to find as they exist in extremely low concentrations in circulating blood. In order to make use of these discoveries at a clinical level, ultra-sensitive biosensors exhibiting high degrees of specificity will be required to identify these proteins in clinical samples, such as patient blood plasma or serum. Further, a sensing technology that identifies a multi-protein signature is most likely to minimize false positives and false negatives. A sensor array incorporating these aspects could have an impact at multiple levels including early detection screening, post-therapy monitoring, as well as on the proteomic discovery process. The research presented here involves the development of such a tool and its application towards detecting mesothelin, a cell-surface protein that is highly expressed in mesothelioma, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, and some other malignancies. The acoustic resonator array design consists of electrodes fabricated on the surface of a piezoelectric ZnO thin-film. To functionalize the resonators for mesothelin detection, MB Mabs were immobilized on the surface, which have an affinity for mesothelin at 0.6 nmol/L. The Mabs were bound to the surface using a thiol-terminated silane surface chemistry. Reference device arrays coated with anti-FITC antibodies, specific to a molecule not present in the analyte, were also prepared. The goal of the investigation was therefore to gauge the sensitivity of the sensors to the molecular binding of mesothelin. A total of n=16 mesothelin-targeted devices and n=16 reference devices were tested by exposing them to a 10 μg/ml solution of purified mesothelin-rfc protein in PBS buffer for 25 minutes. The devices were washed and the final operating frequencies were measured. The frequency shifts were then compared with the initial “unloaded” operating frequencies. The reference sensors showed a mean shift of 540 kHz while the mesothelin-coated sensors showed a mean shift of 1.25 MHz. ANOVA was performed on the results which indicate a statistically significant difference (p
Parylene-oil-encapsulated low-drift implantable pressure sensors

This paper demonstrates a parylene-oil-encapsulated packaging technology that applies to commercial pressure sensors to enable intraocular pressure sensing with minimal drift. Commercial digital-output barometers are chosen to be packaged first with 100,000 cSt silicone oil and then sub-micron thick parylene within the volume of the original housing. It is newly found that parylene type and oil viscosity can decide the sign and magnitude of the intrinsic stress in parylene. Additionally, the effect of deposited thickness and temperature on film stress is studied through induced pressure offset. When properly designed, parylene-oil-encapsulated pressure sensors maintain <0.3% sensitivity drift and <1 to 2 mmHg offset drift for over 50 to 106+ days in 77 °C saline, equivalent to 25 to 53+ months at 37 °C [1]. This new compact packaging method is promising for converting air-operated commercial sensors to be “implantable” with nearly original sensitivity and minimal offset and drift.
Bridging the Gap: Pragmatic Language Group Approach for Cognitive-Communication Deficits Postconcussion

Postconcussion patients who have made progress through individual speech and language therapy may continue to experience cognitive-communication deficits, which include changes in word finding, executive function, reading comprehension, written expression, and social skills. In this article, the authors describe a pragmatic language group approach to maximize recovery from persisting cognitive-communication deficits in patients with postconcussion symptoms. Findings suggest that the inclusion of a pragmatic language group in concussion management benefits patient care, enabling participants to regain preconcussion functional communication skills and improve quality of life. Prior to enrollment in the pragmatic language group, participants completed a course of individual speech and language treatment ranging from 3 to 6 months. Following intervention, participants presented with varying degrees of impairment that continued to interfere with their communication function. The application of group therapy is...
Future Prospects for Population Policies

This chapter will attempt to chart the way forward for population policies. For various reasons, it is a daunting task.
Cumulants, Mixing and Estimation for Gaussian Fields

Later on a number of methods will be introduced that are based on moments of cumulants and are used to estimate aspects of the structure of processes of interest. For this reason it seems proper to make some remarks about moments and cumulants and the relationship between them.
Fractional Right Ideals

Fractional ideals play a central role in the investigation of integral domains. This paper extends this important concept to right non-singular rings of finite right Goldie-dimension. We show that a satisfactory extension is only possible if R is a semi-prime right and left Goldie-ring.
The Elderly Patient

The geriatric population is the fastest growing age group today, and geriatric trauma accounts for a significant proportion of admissions to trauma centers. Due to functional changes with age, preexisting diseases, and pre-injury medications, geriatric trauma patients have limited physiological reserves and, therefore, require much more aggressive evaluation and treatment than their younger counterparts. A low threshold for field triage directly to a trauma center is warranted in elderly trauma patients. The primary and secondary survey follows ATLS guidelines; however, age-related conditions impact patient evaluation. The treatment algorithms for penetrating trauma in the elderly are no different. In any bleeding elderly patient, consider damage control interventions early. Selective nonoperative management of penetrating solid organ injuries, applied in many young trauma victims, is more likely to fail in older patients and, in general, should be reserved for low-grade injuries. When managed successfully, a significant number of elderly patients sustaining penetrating trauma will be able to return to levels of reasonable function and thus justify aggressive management.
Sedimentation analysis of ribonucleotide reductase activity in extracts of Pseudomonasstutzeri

Abstract Analysis of ribonucleotide reductase and DNA polymerase activities in extracts of Pseudomonas stutzeri by centrifugation in discontinous sucrose gradients indicated that these two enzymes are associated with two different high molecular weight cellular components. In addition, 95% of the ribonucleotide reductase activity was pelleted by centrifugation of extracts for 4 hr at 200,000 × G. The reductase activity remained particulate (sedimentable) following sonication whereas some 90% of the DNA polymerase activity was rendered soluble (non-sedimentable) by this technique. This data indicate that the P. stutzeri ribonucleotide reductase is not a cytosolic enzyme, but is associated with a macromolecular component in the cell.
Routledge Handbook on Human Rights and the Middle East and North Africa

Recent events such as ‘Iran’s Green Revolution’ and the ‘Arab Uprisings’ have exploded notions that human rights are irrelevant to Middle Eastern and North African politics. Increasingly seen as a global concern, human rights are at the fulcrum of the region’s on-the-ground politics, transnational intellectual debates, and global political intersections. The Routledge Handbook on Human Rights and the Middle East and North Africa: emphasises the need to consider human rights in all their dimensions, rather than solely focusing on the political dimension, in order to understand the structural reasons behind the persistence of human rights violations; explores the various frameworks in which to consider human rights—conceptual, political and transnational/international; discusses issue areas subject to particularly intense debate—gender, religion, sexuality, transitions and accountability; contains contributions from perspectives that span from global theory to grassroots reflections, emphasising the need for academic work on human rights to seriously engage with the thoughts and practices of those working on the ground. A multidisciplinary approach from scholars with a wide range of expertise allows the book to capture the complex dynamics by which human rights have had, or could have, an impact on Middle Eastern and North African politics. This book will therefore be a key resource for students and scholars of Middle Eastern and North African politics and society, as well as anyone with a concern for Human Rights across the globe.
Closed Genome Sequences of Two Clostridium botulinum Strains Obtained by Nanopore Sequencing.

ABSTRACT Here we report the genome sequences of two toxin-producing Clostridium botulinum strains, one environmental sample (83F) and one clinical sample (CDC51232). The genomes were closed by a combination of long-read and short-read sequencing. The strains belong to C. botulinum sequence type 4 (ST4) and ST7, respectively.
Chitown Loves YouHip Hop’s Alternative Spatializing Narratives and Activism to Trump’s HatefulCampaign Rhetoric About Chicago

Donald Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign rhetoric about violence in Chicago spatialized a narrative that branded the city as the poster child of urban disarray. His bombast lacked any contextual understanding of the issue and offered no productive pathways for collective solutions. Alternatively, I argue in this paper that a rising collection of Chicago hip hop artists were producing musical discourses in 2016 that not only challenged Trump’s negative rants, but also spatialized a multilayered narrative of the intersections between hip hop and activism in the city. Through textual analysis of three tracks from three breakout artists in 2016, my goal is to show how hip hop enables audiences to imagine Chicago’s 1) structural resistance to violence in the city’s communities of color, 2) a sense of place and belonging among the city’s youth, and 3) a loving and unapologetic “black liberation” lens to social movements in the city.
A Qualitative Analysis of School Nurses’ Experience Caring for Students With Psychogenic Nonepileptic Events:

Psychogenic nonepileptic events (PNEE) are paroxysmal changes in behavior resembling epileptic seizures but with no electrographic correlate and are instead caused by psychological factors. In this qualitative study, semistructured interviews were conducted with 10 school nurses to identify how they perceive the experience of caring for a student with PNEE as well as supportive factors and barriers to optimal management of PNEE in schools. Several themes were identified: lack of diagnosis awareness by school staff leading to impressions that the student was "faking" the events, inadequate information provided by a health-care provider regarding the diagnosis in general and specifically about the individual student leading to a reliance on information from the student's family, feelings of doubt and insecurity about the diagnosis and management of the events, and reliance on the school nurse to develop a response plan and to manage the events which can be very time-consuming.
RF-Based Fall Monitoring Using Convolutional Neural Networks

Falls are the top reason for fatal and non-fatal injuries among seniors. Existing solutions are based on wearable fall-alert sensors, but medical research has shown that they are ineffective, mostly because seniors do not wear them. These revelations have led to new passive sensors that infer falls by analyzing Radio Frequency (RF) signals in homes. Seniors can go about their lives as usual without the need to wear any device. While passive monitoring has made major advances, current approaches still cannot deal with the complexities of real-world scenarios. They typically train and test their classifiers on the same people in the same environments, and cannot generalize to new people or new environments. Further, they cannot separate motions from different people and can easily miss a fall in the presence of other motions. To overcome these limitations, we introduce Aryokee, an RF-based fall detection system that uses convolutional neural networks governed by a state machine. Aryokee works with new people and environments unseen in the training set. It also separates different sources of motion to increase robustness. Results from testing Aryokee with over 140 people performing 40 types of activities in 57 different environments show a recall of 94% and a precision of 92% in detecting falls.
Demographic Influence on Opioid Misuse

The increased opioid misuse during the last decades have led to a drug epidemic in the United States. The extensive use of legally prescribed opioids (such as morphine, hydrocodone, hydromorphone, fentanyl, among others) in the late 90’s trigger an unprecedented crisis. In order to understand this phenomenon several variables should be addressed, ranging from medical information to demographic and social variables. This imposes a challenge to describe the opioids crisis and generate models as diverse sources should be related. The social component of opioid epidemics imposes a spatial nature to its assessment. A python based visualization tool is described, the workflow to summarize information involving different data sources is presented. This work looks forward to provide an alternative resource to understand the opioid epidemic dynamics.
Adults' attitudes toward raising the minimum age of sale for tobacco products to 21 years, United States, 2014-2017

Abstract Raising the minimum age of sale for tobacco products to 21 years (Tobacco 21) could help prevent and delay tobacco product initiation among youth. This study examined changes in U.S. adults' attitudes toward Tobacco 21 policies during 2014–2017. Data came from the 2014–2017 annual Summer Styles surveys, an Internet-based, cross-sectional survey of U.S. adults aged ≥18 years, drawn from GfK's KnowledgePanel®. Sample sizes ranged from 4107 in 2017 to 4269 in 2014. Each year, respondents were asked if they “strongly favor,” “somewhat favor,” “somewhat oppose,” or “strongly oppose” Tobacco 21 policies. Weighted prevalence estimates of favorability (strongly or somewhat favor) were assessed each year; differences in favorability between years were assessed by chi square tests. Adjusted odds ratios (aOR) of favorability with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using logistic regression for the year 2017. Tobacco 21 policy favorability was reported by 75.0% in 2014; 72.3% in 2015; 78.4% in 2016; and 75.2% in 2017; the difference in favorability between 2014 and 2017 was not statistically significant. In 2017, lower odds of favorability toward Tobacco 21 policies were observed for current (aOR = 0.49, CI = 0.37–0.64) and former (aOR = 0.54, CI = 0.44–0.66) cigarette smokers, and current other tobacco product users (aOR = 0.54, CI = 0.49–0.64) than respective nonusers. Among U.S. adults, Tobacco 21 favorability has remained high since 2014, coinciding with a period of rapid state and local-level policy adoption. These results could be helpful for states and localities as they work to understand the feasibility of Tobacco 21 policies in their jurisdiction.