cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
MUST ETHICS BE THEOLOGICAL? A CRITIQUE OF THE NEW PRAGMATISTS

In the last decade there has been a pragmatic turn in the work of those doing Christian ethics, especially as represented by the work of Jeffrey Stout and Franklin Gamwell. The pragmatic turn represents a critique of the highly influential work of Stanley Hauerwas and Alasdair MacIntyre, which argues for a strongly intra-church ethics. The pragmatists are correct in arguing that Christian ethics must engage the public sphere. However, I argue that they are deeply mistaken in their claim that this engagement must rest on a weak or non-existent theology. I show that the claim that robust theology adds nothing to ethics, and that we can get along without it, is unsustainable.
A Review of Organizational and Human Performance Frameworks

The frameworks or models used to conceptualize workplace performance are as diverse as the organisations they attempt to mirror. The purpose of this review was to examine a sample of the frameworks used to model human performance in organizations with respect to: 1) change orientation, 2) theoretical basis, 3) organizational results level, 4) unit of analysis, and 5) performance analysis. Organizational system and performance system frameworks were contrasted with systematic process models of performance improvement. Frameworks are defined as system-orientod representations of the flow or linkages of resources, inputs, processes, goals, and results within and external to an organization. Performance improvement process models are defined as representations of systematic processes that define steps to be taken to implement a particular solution or identify a problem. It is recommended that solution designers blend frameworks of organizational system and performance system architectures into systematic, participatory design processes.
Design of Switching Laws for Shared-Sensing and Control by Reversible Transducers

In this paper we propose the concept of shared-sensing for reversible transducers. In shared- sensing, the transducers switch between sensing and actuation modes, which is different from self-sensing where sensing and actuation are performed simultaneously. Both shared-sensing and self-sensing offer to reduce the number of transducers and provide collocation. However, our initial investigations indicate that shared-sensing has many advantages as compared to self-sensing. In this paper we develop observer based control design for systems with shared-sensing transducers. Through simulations and experimental results we demonstrate the simplicity and effectiveness with which shared-sensing and control can be implemented.
A five channel low cost GPS receiver

A progress report on a program to develop a low-cost GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver for marine applications is presented. The unit described is a highly digital, mostly one bit, software intensive receiver. The unit uses one RF mixer to baseband, a one-bit 2-MHz A/D (analog-to-digital converter), and five digital parallel signal processing channels. An AMLE (approximate maximum likelihood estimator) technique is used to acquire signals, and low dynamic loops are used for tracking. General principles guiding the design and a description of the receiver are given. >
Clinical Applications of Chemiluminescence of Granulocytes

The oxidative metabolic activity of granulocytes can be directly examined by chemiluminescence, a laboratory technique that measures photon emission during well-defined inflammatory or microbicidal events. Numerous studies have utilized chemiluminescence to examine early changes during infectious diseases and other pathologic processes. Studies have suggested that receptors on cell surfaces and oxygenation of granulocytes can reflect the severity of disease as well as provide early diagnostic information. Diseases within virtually every subspecialty of medicine have been studied in this respect, but most investigations have focused on infectious and autoimmune conditions. The present review summarizes current progress in laboratory methods and evaluates the potential application of recently published clinical data. It is apparent that during disease myeloperoxidase- and oxidase-dependent oxygenation activities reflect separate host responses, and independent measurements of these activities will offer a more meaningful understanding of host defense. Immune complexes and other factors in serum may also interact with granulocytes to alter the receptors on cell surfaces and subsequent metabolic activity. In some circumstances, enhanced function of granulocytes may be detrimental to the host.
Science to Practice: Can an Enzyme-sensitive MR Contrast Agent Be Used to Image Inflammation in Aneurysms?

DeLeo et al have demonstrated in an animal model that inflammation associated with aneurysms can be evaluated noninvasively with MR imaging and use of activatable contrast agents.
Cosmological Experiments in Superfluids and Superconductors

Evolution of the order parameter in condensed matter analogues of cosmological phase transitions is discussed. It is shown that the density of the frozen-out topological defects is set by the competition between the quench rate - the rate at which the phase transition is taking place - and the relaxation rate of the order parameter. More specifically, the characteristic domain size which determines the typical distance separating topological defects in the new broken symmetry phase (and, therefore, their density) is determined by the correlation length at the instant at which the relaxation timescale of the order parameter is equal to the time from the phase transition. This scenario shares with the Kibble mechanism the idea that topological defects will appear “in between” domains with independently chosen broken symmetry vacuum. However, it differs from the original proposal in estimating the size of such domains through the non-equilibrium aspects of the transition (quench rate), rather than through the Ginzburg temperature at which thermally activated symmetry restoration can still occur in the correlation - length sized volumes of the broken symmetry phase. This scenario can be employed to analyze recent superfluid quench experiments carried out in bulk He4 to study the analogue of the “cosmological” prediction of significant vortex line production. It can be also applied to superfluid quenches in annular geometry, as well as to the rapid phase transition from the normal metal to superconductor, where the symmetry breaking occurs in the order parameter with the local (rather than a global) gauge. Cosmological implications of the revised defect formation scenario with the critical domain size set by the freeze-out time rather than by the Ginzburg temperature are also briefly considered.
Editing of glutamate receptor B subunit ion channel RNAs by four alternatively spliced DRADA2 double-stranded RNA adenosine deaminases.

Double-stranded (ds) RNA-specific adenosine deaminase converts adenosine residues into inosines in dsRNA and edits transcripts of certain cellular and viral genes such as glutamate receptor (GluR) subunits and hepatitis delta antigen. The first member of this type of deaminase, DRADA1, has been recently cloned based on the amino acid sequence information derived from biochemically purified proteins. Our search for DRADA1-like genes through expressed sequence tag databases led to the cloning of the second member of this class of enzyme, DRADA2, which has a high degree of sequence homology to DRADA1 yet exhibits a distinctive RNA editing site selectivity. There are four differentially spliced isoforms of human DRADA2. These different isoforms of recombinant DRADA2 proteins, including one which is a human homolog of the recently reported rat RED1, were analyzed in vitro for their GluR B subunit (GluR-B) RNA editing site selectivity. As originally reported for rat RED1, the DRADA2a and -2b isoforms edit GluR-B RNA efficiently at the so-called Q/R site, whereas DRADA1 barely edits this site. In contrast, the R/G site of GluR-B RNA was edited efficiently by the DRADA2a and -2b isoforms as well as DRADA1. Isoforms DRADA2c and -2d, which have a distinctive truncatedshorterC-terminalstructure,displayedweakadenosine-to-inosineconversionactivitybutnoediting activity tested at three known sites of GluR-B RNA. The possible role of these DRADA2c and -2d isoforms in the regulatory mechanism of RNA editing is discussed.
Multilayer soft lithography of perfluoropolyether based elastomer for microfluidic device fabrication

The compatibility of microfluidic devices with solvents and other chemicals is extremely important for many applications such as organic synthesis in microreactors and drug screening. We report the successful fabrication of microfluidic devices from a novel perfluoropolyether based polymer utilizing the Multilayer Soft Lithography™ (MSL) technique with simple, straightforward processing. The perfluorinated polymer SIFEL X-71 8115 is a highly chemically resistant elastomeric material. We demonstrate fabrication of a microfluidic device using an off-ratio bonding technique to bond multiple SIFEL layers, each patterned lithographically. The mechanical properties of the SIFEL MSL valves (including actuation pressures) are similar to PDMS MSL valves of the same geometry. Chemical compatibility tests highlight SIFEL's remarkable resistance to organic solvents, acids and alkalis.
miR-200 Inhibits Lung Adenocarcinoma Cell Invasion and Metastasis by Targeting Flt1/VEGFR1

The microRNA-200 (miR-200) family is part of a gene expression signature that predicts poor prognosis in lung cancer patients. In a mouse model of K-ras/p53-mutant lung adenocarcinoma, miR-200 levels are suppressed in metastasis-prone tumor cells, and forced miR-200 expression inhibits tumor growth and metastasis, but the miR-200 target genes that drive lung tumorigenesis have not been fully elucidated. Here, we scanned the genome for putative miR-200 binding sites and found them in the 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR) of 35 genes that are amplified in human cancer. Mining of a database of resected human lung adenocarcinomas revealed that the levels of one of these genes, Flt1/VEGFR1, correlate inversely with duration of survival. Forced miR-200 expression suppressed Flt1 levels in metastasis-prone lung adenocarcinoma cells derived from K-ras/p53-mutant mice, and negatively regulated the Flt1 3'-UTR in reporter assays. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) isolated from murine lung adenocarcinomas secreted abundant VEGF and enhanced tumor cell invasion in coculture studies. CAF-induced tumor cell invasion was abrogated by VEGF neutralization or Flt1 knockdown in tumor cells. Flt1 knockdown decreased the growth and metastasis of tumor cells in syngeneic mice. We conclude that miR-200 suppresses lung tumorigenesis by targeting Flt1.
Field and Laboratory Evaluation of a Reflective Crack Interlayer in New Jersey

A research effort consisting of both field and laboratory testing was undertaken to evaluate reflective crack relief interlayer (RCRI) mixes as a means of mitigating reflective cracking in composite pavements. Extensive field testing that included falling weight deflectometer (FWD) and weigh-in-motion (WIM) sensors was used to establish applied loads and the resultant movements in the pavement structure. The resultant field movements were used to establish testing parameters for the laboratory study. The purpose of the laboratory program was to evaluate the reflective cracking potential through bending and expansion-contractiontype movements of plant-produced asphalt mixes consisting of different aggregate gradations and asphalt binder types commonly used in New Jersey for portland cement concrete pavement overlays. Results indicate that the combination of FWD and WIM data can provide valuable information for establishing realistic parameters for laboratory validation of asphalt mixes. The laboratory stud...
Viscosity-stability of aqueous solutions of certain hydrophilic polymers.

The viscosity-stability of sodium carboxymethylcellulose and sodium alginate, in aqueous solution, has been investigated. The “viscosity half-life” of sodium carboxymethylcellulose decreases with increasing average molecular weight and increases with concentration. The “viscosity half-life” of sodium alginate also decreases with increasing molecular weight, but appears to be independent of concentration in the concentration range studied. The stereochemical features of these polymers, which may serve to explain the concentration effect, are discussed. The viscosity-stability of sodium alginate increases with increasing calcium content. Methods for a meaningful comparative evaluation of the viscosity-stability characteristics of hydrophilic polymers are discussed.
Cdk2: cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (vertebrates)

Cyclin-dependent kinases (Cdks) that are members of the Cdc2 family have been implicated in the control of cell cycle transitions in a variety of eukaryotic organisms. Cdk2 is a member of a subfamily that is likely to perform functions distinct from those of Cdc2. In particular, Cdk2 has been implicated in control of G1- and S-phase events in the cell cycle, because of the timing of expression and activity of its regulatory subunits. Cdk2 is catalytically inactive in monomeric form, but it is active as a heterodimer in association with its regulatory cyclin subunits. Unlike Cdc2, which absolutely requires both cyclin association and T161 phosphorylation for activity, Cdk2 can be weakly activated by cyclin A (1.5% maximal activity) in the absence of T160 phosphorylation and fully activated with it. Cdk2 has been found to associate with cyclin E and cyclin D1 during the G1 phase of the cell cycle, and with cyclin A during S phase. It has also been detected in complexes with p107–E2F, E1 A, and can bind CksHs-1.
Design of Affinity Tags for One-Step Protein Purification from Immobilized Zinc Columns

Affinity tags are often used to accomplish recombinant protein purification using immobilized metal affinity chromatography. Success of the tag depends on the chelated metal used and the elution profile of the host cell proteins. Zn(II)-iminodiacetic acid (Zn(II)-IDA) may prove to be superior to either immobilized copper or nickel as a result of its relatively low binding affinity for cellular proteins. For example, almost all Escherichia coli proteins elute from Zn(II)-IDA columns between pH 7.5 and 7.0 with very little cellular protein emerging at pH values lower than 7.0. Thus, a large portion of the Zn(II)-IDA elution profile may be free of contaminant proteins, which can be exploited for one-step purification of a target protein from raw cell extract. In this paper we have identified several fusion tags that can direct the elution of the target protein to the low background region of the Zn(II)-IDA elution profile. These tags allow targeting of proteins to different regions of the elution profile, facilitating purification under mild conditions.
Identification of a negative feedback loop between cyclic di-GMP-induced levels of IFI16 and p202 cytosolic DNA sensors and STING:

A host type I IFN response is induced by cytosolic sensing of the bacterial second messenger cyclic-di-GMP (c-di-GMP) by STING (stimulator of IFN genes). Because the STING, an adaptor protein, links the cytosolic detection of DNA by the cytosolic DNA sensors such as the IFN-inducible human IFI16 and murine p202 proteins to the TBK1/IRF3 axis, we investigated whether c-di-GMP-induced signaling could regulate expression of IFI16 and p202 proteins. Here, we report that activation of c-di-GMP-induced signaling in human and murine cells increased steady-state levels of IFI16 and p202 proteins. The increase was c-di-GMP concentration- and time-dependent. Unexpectedly, treatment of cells with type I IFN decreased levels of the adaptor protein STING. Therefore, we investigated whether the IFI16 or p202 protein could regulate the expression of STING and activation of the TBK1/IRF3 axis. We found that constitutive knockdown of IFI16 or p202 expression in cells increased steady-state levels of STING. Additionally, the knockdown of IFI16 resulted in activation of the TBK1/IRF3 axis. Accordingly, increased levels of the IFI16 or p202 protein in cells decreased STING levels. Together, our observations identify a novel negative feedback loop between c-di-GMP-induced levels of IFI16 and p202 cytosolic DNA sensors and the adaptor protein STING.
Thy Neighbor's Portfolio: Word-of-Mouth Effects in the Holdings and Trades of Money Managers

A mutual-fund manager is more likely to hold (or buy, or sell) a particular stock in any quarter if other managers in the same city are holding (or buying, or selling) that same stock. This pattern shows up even when controlling for the distance between the fund manager and the stock in question, so it is distinct from a local-preference effect. It is also robust to a variety of controls for investment styles. These results can be interpreted in terms of an epidemic model in which investors spread information about stocks to one another by word of mouth.
ST-Heart Rate-Recovery Loops and Right Precordial Leads in Exercise Electrocardiography

Exercise electrocardiography remains the most cost-effective, convenient and widely utilized noninvasive approach for the detection of coronary artery disease (CAD). However, despite these advantages, imperfections in sensitivity and specificity of this approach have stimulated efforts to refine the diagnostic accuracy of this method (1,2). These innovations include analysis of ST segment heart rate-recovery loops and incorporation of additional leads to the standard 12-lead exercise electrocardiogram (ECG). Initial studies of these adjunctive approaches suggest their potential to improve the reliability of the exercise ECG for detecting CAD (3, 4, 5, 6). This chapter considers the value and limitations of these techniques in the assessment of patients for CAD.
Entrepreneurial Orientation, Distinctive Marketing Competencies And Organizational Performance

This study examined the entrepreneurial orientation (EO) of 599 independent businesspeople and compared those with high, medium and low EO along a series of distinctive marketing competency and organizational performance measures. EO is measured using a new multi-item scale that is based on an integrative definition of entrepreneurship. Results indicate that EO is positively and significantly related to distinctive marketing competencies and organizational performance. Demographic profiles of the high, medium and low EO groups are also developed and provide additional insights.
Finding feature transformation functions using genetic algorithm

Identifying a good set of features is critical to the performance of learning algorithms such as classifiers. Previous methods have focused on either selecting a subset of features or transforming features using principle components analysis. In this paper, we propose a genetic algorithm approach that searches for a good feature transformation function over a subset of features using a novel representation scheme with novel reproduction operators. Preliminary experimental results using the UCI data set show promising results.
The ‘n’ on ‘p’ Silicon Solar-Cell Gamma-Ray Dose-Rate Meter*

The recently developed ‘n’ on ‘p’ type silicon solar cell has been evaluated for application as a high-level gamma-radiation dose-rate meter. The solar-cell ionization current was found to be a lin...
PET/CT Imaging of Chemokine Receptors in Inflammatory Atherosclerosis Using Targeted Nanoparticles

Atherosclerosis is inherently an inflammatory process that is strongly affected by the chemokine–chemokine receptor axes regulating the trafficking of inflammatory cells at all stages of the disease. Of the chemokine receptor family, some specifically upregulated on macrophages play a critical role in plaque development and may have the potential to track plaque progression. However, the diagnostic potential of these chemokine receptors has not been fully realized. On the basis of our previous work using a broad-spectrum peptide antagonist imaging 8 chemokine receptors together, the purpose of this study was to develop a targeted nanoparticle for sensitive and specific detection of these chemokine receptors in both a mouse vascular injury model and a spontaneously developed mouse atherosclerosis model. Methods: The viral macrophage inflammatory protein-II (vMIP-II) was conjugated to a biocompatible poly(methyl methacrylate)-core/polyethylene glycol-shell amphiphilic comblike nanoparticle through controlled conjugation and polymerization before radiolabeling with 64Cu for PET imaging in an apolipoprotein E–deficient (ApoE−/−) mouse vascular injury model and a spontaneous ApoE−/− mouse atherosclerosis model. Histology, immunohistochemistry, and real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction were performed to assess the plaque progression and upregulation of chemokine receptors. Results: The chemokine receptor–targeted 64Cu-vMIP-II-comb showed extended blood retention and improved biodistribution. PET imaging showed specific tracer accumulation at plaques in ApoE−/− mice, confirmed by competitive receptor blocking studies and assessment in wild-type mice. Histopathologic characterization showed the progression of plaque including size and macrophage population, corresponding to the elevated concentration of chemokine receptors and more importantly increased PET signals. Conclusion: This work provides a useful nanoplatform for sensitive and specific detection of chemokine receptors to assess plaque progression in mouse atherosclerosis models.
Parental Attachment and Love Language as Determinants of Resilience Among Graduating University Students

The influence of parental attachment and love language on the resilience of graduating university students was studied in a Philippine setting. Using the survey method (N = 843), it was found that a secure attachment and receiving love from parents result in higher resilience. The parental love languages quality time, words of affirmation, and acts of service significantly contributed to resilience. These are love languages that provide emotional, motivational, and practical resources that build resilience. While quality time contributed the most to resilience, a secure attachment is most especially required of fathers whereas words of affirmation and physical touch are needed from mothers. Sons need quality time from their fathers and the physical touch of their mothers. Daughters benefit from quality time with mothers alongside a secure attachment and words of affirmation from their fathers. This study emphasizes the parental factors of attachment and love as external resources of resilience. The resear...
Evoked potentials in rats with misonidazole neurotoxicity. I. Brain stem auditory evoked potentials.

Central neurotoxicity produced in rats by daily administration of 300 mg/ kg of misonidazole (MISO) 5 times/ week for 4–5 weeks (total dose = 6.0 gm/ kg) was evaluated weekly with brain stem auditory evoked potentials (BAEPs). Compared to untreated control rats, all treated rats had a prolongation of the I–IV interpeak latency (p < 0.005) at a mean of 13.2 ± 2.7 days at a cumulative dose of approximately 4.0 gm/ kg of MISO per rat. In some rats, the I–III and I–II interwave latencies were prolonged and waves III and IV were lost. Control rats did not show any significant alteration in BAEP latency or amplitude. Histopathologic examination of the brain stems of treated rats showed that necrotic lesions were present primarily in the nuclei of the tegmentum of the fourth ventricle, with scattered nuclear involvement in the cerebellar roof nuclei, inferior olive, and nucleus of the spinal tract of the trigeminal nerve. The cerebral cortex appeared to be normal in all treated rats. Changes in BAEPs caused by central neurotoxicity correlated with the histopathologic findings. We conclude that BAEPs are a sensitive method for evaluating MISO central neurotoxicity in the rat model.
Effect of Histamine on Gastric Secretion in the Pylorus Ligated Rat

SummaryThe effects of single large subcutaneous doses (50 mg/kg) of histamine acid phosphate on gastric secretion were studied in pylorus ligated rats. Significant increases in gastric acidity and acid production were observed 2 hours after histamine injection. No differences between control and histamine injected rats were found 4 hours after injection. Study of the secretory patterns indicated that histamine caused early increased secretion of acid followed by a period of secretory inactivity while, in control rats, the secretory rate increased with time so that by 4 hours gastric secretion was equal in all groups. The gastric secretory stimulation was shown to be due to the histamine and not to the fluid in which it was contained. These studies help reconcile the differing results previously reported concerning the effects of histamine on the rat stomach and suggest that the standard 4-hour pylorus ligated rat preparation may not be suited for experiments utilizing histamine.
Maxillary ameloblastoma with intracerebral extension: Report of a case

Abstract A 73-year-old Negro woman with an aggressive ameloblastoma was treated surgically. All attempts to remove the tumor completely were unsuccessful. From its original site in the left maxilla, the tumor extended upward, destroyed the base of the skull, and infiltrated the brain, replacing the temporal lobe of the brain. The extensive squamous metaplasia of the stellate reticulum, its focal hypercellularity, and the predominance of the epithelium over the stroma evidenced in certain areas of the tumor may be considered features related to the aggressiveness of this neoplasm. Ameloblastomas are rare neoplasms of the jaws. They are of clinical importance because they resist treatment and have a tendency to recur and invade the surrounding tissues. If uncontrolled, they may extend to the base of the skull and even infiltrate the brain.
Aggressive Versus Conservative Management of Stage IV Renal Cell Carcinoma

AbstractImproved modalities to treat metastatic renal cell carcinoma will require an aggressive surgical and chemotherapeutic approach. Nephrectomy with hormonal and non-hormonal chemotherapy does improve median survival and 3-year survival significantly. The use of xenogeneic specific immune ribonucleic acid and Bacillus Calmette-Guerin offers promising immunotherapeutic modalities that may be combined with surgical and chemotherapeutic regimens. Early diagnosis of metastatic disease is important to evaluate properly the results of various modalities of treatment and possibly to improve the efficiency of these modalities. The management of solitary metastatic nodules should involve aggressive resection of the primary and metastatic nodule. Adjuvant hormonal and non-hormonal chemotherapy should be considered in all stages of the disease.
The GTAP-Power Data Base: Disaggregating the Electricity Sector in the GTAP Data Base

Computable general equilibrium (CGE) models are ubiquitous in energy and environmental economic research. Recent technological advancements in electricity fuels, generation technologies, and environmental policies which target specific generation technologies (e.g. emission regulations) have motivated detailed CGE modeling of the electricity sector. Modeling these issues requires distinct electricity generating technologies in a CGE database. Researchers using the Global Trade Analysis Project (GTAP) Data Base have disaggregated the electricity sector into generating technologies independently using largely disparate, incomparable methodologies. This paper presents the methodology used to create the GTAP-Power Data Base, an electricity-detailed extension of the GTAP 9 Data Base with the following disaggregated electricity sectors: transmission and distribution, nuclear, coal, gas, hydroelectric, wind, oil, solar, and other. Gas, oil, and hydroelectric are further differentiated as base and peak load. The “bottom-up” data are electricity generation and levelized input costs for each technology and region. The levelized input costs for each technology are estimated to be as close as possible to the original data, but consistent with the original GTAP 9 Data Base. Major limitations in the initial version of the GTAPPower Data Base are the lack of regional coverage in input cost data and disparity between available data and the total values for the electricity aggregate. All of the GTAP 9 Data Base is included in the GTAP-Power Data Base.
Haematopoietic cell transplantation with and without sorafenib maintenance for patients with FLT3-ITD acute myeloid leukaemia in first complete remission

Summary We performed a retrospective study analysing the effect of sorafenib, an oral fms-Like Tyrosine Kinase 3 (FLT3)/multikinase inhibitor, as post-transplant maintenance in adult patients with FLT3-internal tandem duplication (ITD) acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). We identified consecutive patients with FLT3-ITD AML diagnosed between 2008 and 2014 who received haematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) in first complete remission (CR1). Post-HCT initiation of sorafenib (yes/no) was evaluated as a time-varying covariate in the overall survival/progression-free survival (OS/PFS) analysis and we performed a landmark analysis of controls alive without relapse at the median date of sorafenib initiation. We identified 26 sorafenib patients and 55 controls. Median follow-up was 27·2 months post-HCT for sorafenib survivors, and 38·4 months for controls (P = 0·021). The median time to initiating sorafenib was 68 days post-HCT; 43 controls were alive without relapse at this cut-off. Sorafenib patients had improved 2-year OS in the d+68 landmark analysis (81% vs. 62%, P = 0·029). Sorafenib was associated with improved 2-year PFS (82% vs. 53%, P = 0·0081) and lower 2-year cumulative incidence of relapse (8·2% vs. 37·7%, P = 0·0077). In multivariate analysis, sorafenib significantly improved OS [Hazard ratio (HR) 0·26, P = 0·021] and PFS (HR 0·25, P = 0·016). There was no difference in 2-year non-relapse mortality (9·8% vs. 9·3%, P = 0·82) or 1-year chronic graft-versus-host disease (55·5% vs. 37·2%, P = 0·28). These findings suggest potential benefit of post-HCT sorafenib in FLT3-ITD AML, and support further evaluation of post-HCT FLT3 inhibition.
Core Collections of Potato (Solanum) Species Native to the USA

Potato has two wild relatives native to the USA, Solanum jamesii (jam) and S. fendleri (fen). Core collections are a useful tool for genebanks, identifying a ranked minimum number of samples that together encompass most of the total genetic diversity. With diversity measured as presence of AFLP bands, we made core collections for each species such that >90 % of diversity was captured in a minimum of populations. For fen, bulks containing about 25 % of populations accomplished that standard. For jam, a single “mega-population” at Mesa Verde, CO, consisting of many thousands of plants, was found to encompass 82 % of the AFLP bands detected in all samples across the entire USA range, and adding three more populations captured a total of >90 %. Core members for both jam and fen with the most diversity originated from the northern part of the range. That suggests that these areas merit more collecting. If resources for germplasm preservation and evaluation are limited, samples in the core collections should take priority.
The photoluminescence spectral profiles of water-soluble aggregates of PbS quantum dots assembled through reversible metal coordination

Reversible coupling of glutathione-capped PbS quantum dots through coordination with Zn2+ cations forms water-soluble aggregates. These assemblies mediate multi-step hopping of near-infrared excitons through unity-quantum yield Forster resonance energy transfer. The photoluminescence spectra from these samples are sensitive indicators of average interparticle distance.
Pushing the physical limits of spectroscopic imaging for new biology and better medicine (Conference Presentation)

In vivo molecular spectroscopic imaging is not a simple addition of a spectrometer to a microscope. Innovations are needed to break the physical limits in sensitivity, depth, speed and resolution perspectives. I will present our most recent advances in modality development, biological application, and clinical translation. My talk will focus on the development of mid-infrared photothermal microscope for depth-resolved vibrational imaging of living cells (Science Advances, in press), the discovery of a metabolic signature in cancer stem cells by hyperspectral stimulated Raman scattering imaging (Cell Stem Cell, in press), and the development of an intravascular vibrational photoacoustic catheter for label-free sensing of lipid laden plaques (Scientific Report 2016, 6:25236).
Effects of production stages on blending and mechanical properties of asphalt mixtures with reclaimed asphalt pavement

Abstract This study is to investigate the effects of production stages, including RAP binder transfer, mechanical blending, and diffusion, on the blending of RAP and virgin binders and the mechanical properties of RAP mixtures. A laboratory mixing scheme was designed to produce 26 and 50 percent RAP mixtures that underwent a combination of the different production stages. The results show that diffusion is the most dominant stage that affects the rheological and fracture properties of RAP mixtures. On the other hand, thorough mechanical blending contributes to improving the ductility of high percentage RAP mixtures.
Inhibition of Amebic Lysosomal Acidification Blocks Amebic Trogocytosis and Cell Killing

Entamoeba histolytica ingests fragments of live host cells in a nibbling-like process termed amebic trogocytosis. Amebic trogocytosis is required for cell killing and contributes to tissue invasion, which is a hallmark of invasive amebic colitis. Work done prior to the discovery of amebic trogocytosis showed that acid vesicles are required for amebic cytotoxicity. In the present study, we show that acidified lysosomes are required for amebic trogocytosis and cell killing. Interference with lysosome acidification using ammonium chloride, a weak base, or concanamycin A, a vacuolar H+ ATPase inhibitor, decreased amebic trogocytosis and amebic cytotoxicity. Our data suggest that the inhibitors do not impair the ingestion of an initial fragment but rather block continued trogocytosis and the ingestion of multiple fragments. The acidification inhibitors also decreased phagocytosis, but not fluid-phase endocytosis. These data suggest that amebic lysosomes play a crucial role in amebic trogocytosis, phagocytosis, and cell killing.IMPORTANCEE. histolytica is a protozoan parasite that is prevalent in low-income countries, where it causes potentially fatal diarrhea, dysentery, and liver abscesses. Tissue destruction is a hallmark of invasive E. histolytica infection. The parasite is highly cytotoxic to a wide range of human cells, and parasite cytotoxic activity is likely to drive tissue destruction. E. histolytica is able to kill human cells through amebic trogocytosis. This process also contributes to tissue invasion. Trogocytosis has been observed in other organisms; however, little is known about the mechanism in any system. We show that interference with lysosomal acidification impairs amebic trogocytosis, phagocytosis, and cell killing, indicating that amebic lysosomes are critically important for these processes.
Comparing Quality Management Practices between the United States and Mexico

The purpose of this article is to compare quality management practices in the United States and Mexico. The survey instrument used was based on the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award (MBNQA) criteria. The results show that social aspects of quality, including quality citizenship and quality responsibility, are different in the United States and Mexico. Furthermore, the results of the regression analysis show that there are differences between the critical success factors of quality management practices within the United States and Mexico. In both countries, general matters (social responsibility) and supplier quality were significant in explaining variability of quality results. More similarities in both countries were found in the effect of quality management practices on customer focus and satisfaction, where general matters (social responsibility), strategic planning process for quality management, and quality assurance of products or services were statistically significant variables explaining va...
Predicting myofiber size with electrical impedance myography: A study in immature mice.

Introduction Electrical impedance can be used to estimate cellular characteristics. We sought to determine whether it could be used to approximate myofiber size using standard prediction modeling approaches. Methods Forty-four C57BL/6J wild-type immature mice of varying ages underwent electrical impedance myography (EIM) with a needle electrode array placed in the gastrocnemius. Animals were then humanely killed and muscle fixed, stained, and myofiber size quantified. Two different statistical prediction models were then applied. Results Impedance parameters showed major variation with increasing myofiber size. The prediction models based on EIM data alone were able to predict fiber size, with errors in the range of ±69.05-78.44 µm2 (16.19%-18.40% with respect to the average myofiber size). Discussion By using well-established statistical models, EIM data alone can provide a satisfactory estimate of myofiber size. Additional study of this approach for approximating myofiber size without the requirement of removing tissue for histological analysis is warranted. Muscle Nerve, 2018.
Peanut flour aggregation with polyphenolic extracts derived from peanut skin inhibits IgE binding capacity and attenuates RBL-2H3 cells degranulation via MAPK signaling pathway

This study investigates the anti-allergic properties of peanut skin polyphenols (PSP)-enriched peanut (PN) protein aggregates. PSP was blended with PN flour at concentrations of 5, 10, 15, 30, and 40% (w/w). Rat basophil leukemia cells (RBL-2H3) were sensitized with either anti-DNP-IgE or PN-allergic plasma followed by co-exposure to unmodified PN flour (control) or PSP-PN protein aggregates and Ca2+ ionophore, ionomycin. Immunoblotting and staining were performed to measure the IgE binding capacity of PSP-PN aggregates. Results showed that 30% PSP-PN aggregate significantly reduced β-hexosaminidase and histamine levels by 54.2% and 49.2%, respectively compared with control. Immunoblotting results revealed 40% PSP-PN aggregates significantly decreased IgE binding by 19%. The phosphorylation of p44/42 MAPK was significantly reduced while phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and SAPK/JNK increased upon PSP-PN protein aggregate exposure to the cells. Our results show that aggregation of PSP to PN proteins reduces allergic response by inhibiting Ca2+-induced MAPK-dependent cell degranulation.
Digital investigations on the evolution of prokaryote photosynthesis regulation: late-breaking abstract

The questions about nature that we can address using digital evolution are constrained by the speed of our software and the level of abstraction used in our genetic representations. One subject that has been particularly challenging is the evolution of gene regulatory networks. We introduce a new digital evolution platform, built upon a mechanistic model of gene regulation and chemical signaling, that permits studying the evolution of an organism's adaptive decision-making and its underlying gene regulatory and signaling networks. We will discuss how this platform is being used to investigate the evolution of homeostasis and circadian rhythms in photosynthetic prokaryotes.
Perceptions of African American and European American Teachers on the Education of African American Boys.

The authors interviewed 27 teachers (16 African American and 11 European American) on instructional factors contributing to overidentification of behavior problems in African American boys. Interviews focused on teachers' perspectives of effective teachers, teacherstudent relationships, and communication styles. Analysis of the interviews showed that both African American and European American teachers believed in the importance and positive impact of having caring relationships with students. However, African American teachers placed a higher value on being personally involved with students, providing protective guidance, and knowing the students' family and community. European American teachers valued teachers who provide good academic instruction, have consistent expectations and consequences, and are involved in students' school activities. Both groups believed there were important differences in communication styles between some African American women teachers and European American teachers in managi...
Chiropractic Evaluation and Management

A thorough knowledge of equine vertebral anatomy, biomechanics and pathology is required to understand the principles and theories behind chiropractic evaluation, and to apply its tech¬niques properly. Chiropractie provides additional diagnostic and therapeutic means that may help equine practitioners to identify and treat back problems. Specialized training in the evaluation and treatment of vertebral joint dysfunction and neuromusculoskeletal disorders place chiropractic in the forefront of conservative treatment of spinal-related disorders. However, limited research is currently available on equine chiropractic in veterinary medicine. The future of equine chiropractic is dependent on formal research into the clinical effects of chiropractic techniques and the basic pathophysiology of spinal-related disorders in horses.
Teaching Trademark Theory Through the Lens of Distinctiveness

This contribution to the annual teaching edition of the Saint Louis University Law Journal encourages teachers to begin trademark law courses using the concept of distinctiveness as a vehicle for articulating producer and consumer perspectives in trademark law. Viewing the law through these sometimes different perspectives helps in approaching a variety of doctrines in trademark law, and both perspectives are relatively easy to grasp in the context of distinctiveness.
Temporal Pattern of Electrical Stimulation is a New Dimension of Therapeutic Innovation.

Abstract Artificial activation of the nervous system requires selection of appropriate stimulation parameters including stimulation amplitude, stimulation pulse duration, and stimulation pulse repetition rate. The temporal pattern of stimulation, i.e., the timing between stimulation pulses, is a novel dimension of stimulation parameter tuning. The effects evoked by artificial activation of the nervous system are dependent on the pattern of stimulation, and different patterns of stimulation, even when delivered at the same average rate, evoke different functional effects, different changes in synaptic plasticity, and even different patterns of gene expression. Non-regular temporal patterns of stimulation offer the opportunity to improve the efficacy and efficiency of therapeutic stimulation as well as to manipulate other processes in the nervous system. The potential design space for sequences of varying interpulse intervals is exceedingly large and sound approaches to design stimulation patterns are required as an empirical approach is not practical.
A prospective analysis of touch preparation cytology for intraoperative detection of mediastinal lymph node metastases.

Introduction Patients diagnosed with lung cancer may require immediate evaluation of mediastinal lymph nodes to determine treatment plan. Typically, frozen section (FS) analysis has been used, but this analysis can be time-consuming and uses more tissue than touch preparation (TP) cytologic analysis. TP accuracy has been studied in other organs, but no prospective studies comparing TP to FS have been performed on mediastinal lymph nodes in lung cancer. Our goal was to compare the accuracy of TP to FS in these cases. Materials and methods After obtaining institutional review board approval, all patients undergoing mediastinal lymph node evaluation for a diagnosis of lung cancer were asked to participate. If consent was given, TP and FS analyses were performed on all mediastinal lymph node stations in all patients and compared to permanent hematoxylin and eosin analysis. Data were collected prospectively. Results Twenty patients were enrolled. Mean age was 67.7 years. Fifty-five percent (11 of 20) of patients were men. The mean number of lymph node stations sampled in each patient was 3.4. In predicting the stage of the patient, TP had a sensitivity and specificity of 95% and 100%, respectively. FS had a lower sensitivity, 85%, and a specificity of 100%. On permanent analysis, metastatic foci ranged in size from 0.15 mm to 1.5 mm. Conclusions TP was more sensitive than FS in detecting mediastinal lymph node metastases. The technical difficulty of obtaining full-thickness sections without creating significant artifact may contribute to the lower sensitivity of FS in detecting micrometastases.
Conical Intersections at the Nanoscale: Molecular Ideas for Materials.

The ability to predict and describe nonradiative processes in molecules via the identification and characterization of conical intersections is one of the greatest recent successes of theoretical c...
Comparing Sentinel-2 MSI and Landsat 8 OLI in soil salinity detection: a case study of agricultural lands in coastal North Carolina

This study presents the first comparison of Landsat 8 Operational Land Imager (OLI) and Sentinel-2 Multispectral Instrument (MSI) in identifying soil salinity using soil physiochemical, spectral, s...
Assessing Library Customer Interactions and Staff Satisfaction

AbstractIn 2016, two service departments–the office of information technology (OIT) and the academic resource center (ARC) at the college–physically relocated into the library. To ensure consistent...
Aza-Darzens Asymmetric Synthesis of N-(p-Toluenesulfinyl)aziridine 2-Carboxylate Esters from Sulfinimines (N-Sulfinyl Imines)

The one-step aza-Darzens reaction of sulfinimines 2 with lithium α-bromoenolates readily affords diversely substituted cis and trans N-sulfinylaziridine 2-carboxylate esters 3 and 7 in good yield and excellent diastereoselectivity. Higher yields, but lower de's, result when a mixture of the α-bromo ester and 2 are treated with base. The N-sulfinyl group is transformed, nearly quantitatively, without ring opening, into the N-tosyl activating group by oxidation with m-CPBA. Selective removal of the N-sulfinyl group in aziridines 3a and 3h with TFA/H2O affords 1H-aziridines 21 which are difficult to prepared by other means. However, C(3) activated azirines such as 3b undergo ring-opening under these conditions. Alternatively, the N-sulfinyl group, even in C(3)-activated aziridines, was selectively and efficiently removed by treatment of the aziridine with 2 equiv of MeMgBr.
AESTHETICS OF PASSIVE AND LOW-ENERGY ALTERNATIVES

ABSTRACT This paper documents both the satisfactory and unacceptable aesthetic aspects of passive and low-energy facilities. Renewable energy sources are discussed, relating aesthetic concerns to the practical requirements of facilities development.
Understanding Crossarm Testing

A variety of crossarm technologies exist for use in electric utility systems. The NESC [8] requires crossarms meet a specified mechanical load. Many utility procurement specifications require other types of tests including electrical and environmental tests. This paper condenses information presented in [6] and will help electric utility engineers better understand how popular mechanical, electrical and environmental tests are performed and how to interpret the results. The paper includes a discussion of the methods and interpretation of test results for various mechanical and electrical tests for the assembled arm, as well as corrosion and accelerated weathering tests.