cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Therapeutic benefit of bisphosphonates in the management of prostate cancer-related bone disease.

A diversity of bone pathology is present in men with prostate cancer. Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) can cause significant and progressive osteopoenia and osteoporosis. Bone is also the primary site for metastases leading to associated pain, skeletal fractures and hypercalcaemia. Bisphosphonate therapy decreases bone resorption, which may prevent or reverse loss of bone mineral density. Both pamidronate and zoledronic acid have proven efficacy in preventing ADT-induced bone loss. In a randomised, placebo-controlled trial, in men with hormone-refractory prostate cancer, there was a decreased incidence of skeletal-related adverse events in men receiving zoledronic acid. So far, randomised trials have failed to show improved pain control. Formalised guidelines are needed to help clinicians decide which patients should be treated with bisphosphonates, when to initiate therapy and for what duration.
Stabilization of monodisperse electrosprays in the multi-jet mode via electric field enhancement

The electrospray of conducting liquids operated in the cone-jet mode is well known to have the unique ability of generating droplets uniform in size over a phenomenal range of sizes depending primarily on the liquid flow rate and physical properties. Since there is a monotonic dependence of size on flow rate, the liquid flow rates that can be dispersed are modest if the goal is to produce very small (below a few micrometers in diameter) droplets. Yet, this is precisely the application niche for which few, if any, atomization alternatives are available. Multiplexing the spray source is indispensable for the electrospray capabilities to have an impact in high-value-added applications. We report here on a novel approach to multiplexing based on a well-known, but hitherto unexploited, regime of operation, the multi-jet mode. Ordinarily, such a mode is rather unsteady and the range of flow rates at which appreciable multiplexing is achieved is small. However, if the multi-jet mode is anchored by some sharp features (e.g., grooves, ridges, etc.) machined at the outlet of the atomizer, to intensify the electric field at discrete points around its perimeter, then the cone-jets are simultaneously anchored at these features and a stable mode of operation is identified over several hundreds of volts and a broad range of flow rates. Most importantly, so long as the machining is accurately reproduced from point to point, droplets generated do not vary significantly in size from spray to spray. As a result, a compact, inexpensive and versatile multiplexing system is realized without sacrificing droplet monodispersity.
Digital computer simulation of a thermal regenerator

Abstract Much recent work has been devoted to the simulation of thermal regenerators, in particular, Cowper Stoves. A numerical step-by-step procedure to solve the differential equations describing the regenerative heat exchanger is set out. This uses the trapezoidal difference representation of the equations. This method has been programmed for a digital computer and a comparison made with another independent method of calculation. The two techniques yield identical solutions to the equations. It is necessary to decide upon the minimum number of steps in the space variable which require to be incorporated into the computer simulation for an accurate solution of the equations, especially in an analogue representation where step length cannot easily be altered. The factors governing the truncation errors are therefore discussed and it is shown that the larger the Hausen factor K K 0 the fewer the steps necessary for accurate solution.
Near-field spherical scanning: Quiet-zone field evaluation

The interior spherical scanning method can be used to quantify the fields incident on a test zone. The method is potentially useful in evaluating anechoic chamber and compact range performance.
Effects of "In-Your-Face" Television Discourse on Perceptions of a Legitimate Opposition

How do Americans acquire the impression that their political foes have some understandable basis for their views, and thus represent a legitimate opposition? How do they come to believe that reasonable people may disagree on any given political controversy? Given that few people talk regularly to those of opposing perspectives, some theorize that mass media, and television in particular, serve as an important source of exposure to the rationales for oppositional views. A series of experimental studies suggests that television does, indeed, have the capacity to encourage greater awareness of oppositional perspectives. However, common characteristics of televised political discourse—incivility and close-up camera perspectives—cause audiences to view oppositional perspectives as less legitimate than they would have otherwise. I discuss the broader implications of these findings for assessments of the impact of television on the political process, and for the perspective that televised political discourse provides on oppositional political views.
Genome-scale proteome quantification by DEEP SEQ mass spectrometry

Advances in chemistry and massively parallel detection underlie DNA-sequencing platforms that are poised for application in personalized medicine. In stark contrast, systematic generation of protein-level data lags well behind genomics in virtually every aspect: depth of coverage, throughput, ease of sample preparation and experimental time. Here, to bridge this gap, we develop an approach based on simple detergent lysis and single-enzyme digest, extreme, orthogonal separation of peptides and true nanoflow liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry that provides high peak capacity and ionization efficiency. This automated, deep efficient peptide sequencing and quantification mass spectrometry platform provides genome-scale proteome coverage equivalent to RNA-seq ribosomal profiling and accurate quantification for multiplexed isotope labels. In a model of the embryonic to epiblast transition in murine stem cells, we unambiguously quantify 11,352 gene products that span 70% of Swiss-Prot and capture protein regulation across the full detectable range of high-throughput gene expression and protein translation.
Spreadsheets in Team X: Preserving Order in an Inherently Chaotic Environment

JPL is NASA's prime center for deep space missions. In response to the need to reduce the cost and time to complete early concept studies and proposals JPL created the first concurrent engineering team in the aerospace industry: Team X. Started in 1995, Team X has carried out over 800 studies, dramatically reducing the time and cost involved, and has been the model for other concurrent engineering teams both within NASA and throughout the larger aerospace community. Since its inception, the software backbone of this highly successful design team - engaged in examining some of NASA's cutting edge concepts - has been the unassuming spreadsheet. Over the years the Team X spreadsheet-based tools have evolved from simple standalone engineering models into a networked spreadsheet intensive system with real time parameter updating. Recent new capabilities include stochastic cost estimation and a graphical drag and drop block diagram that automatically populates the related spreadsheet parameters of cost, mass and power. This paper describes how the spreadsheet functions within Team X: its history, architecture, current capabilities, enabling strengths and persistent weaknesses. In addition, the verification methods and institutional oversight that have evolved as the Team X products became increasingly critical to Laboratory success are also discussed.
Management of Minimally Symptomatic Giant Paraesophageal Hernias

Hiatal hernias are a common finding in patients undergoing imaging procedures for various abdominal and thoracic complaints. Most hiatal hernias do not cause symptoms per se. Hiatal hernias are categorized as type I to IV, with type I or sliding hernias being the most common type. Type II or true paraesophageal hernias are defined as having the gastroesophageal junction below the diaphragm in a normal anatomic position. Type II hernias are quite rare. In their review of 46,236 patients with hiatal hernia seen at the Mayo Clinic between 19 80 and 1990, Allen and colleagues found only 51 patients with type II hernia defects.
Generation and applications of ultrafast x-ray pulses

The interaction of intense subpicosecond laser pulses with solid targets is of interest for the study of high density plasmas and the production of short pulse x-ray sources. When an intense laser is focused onto the surface of a solid, a high temperature plasma is produced. If the laser pulse is short, the energy can be absorbed by the electrons in an optical skin depth, leading to rapid ionization before significant ablation of the solid occurs. Rapid cooling of hot electrons is expected due to thermal conduction into the underlying cold material, electron energy loss to ions, and expansion.
Measuring Surgical Site Infections in Children: Comparing Clinical, Electronic, and Administrative Data

Background Surgical site infections (SSIs) are an important end point and measure of quality of care. Surgical site infections can be identified using clinical registries, electronic surveillance, and administrative claims data. This study compared measurements of SSIs using these 3 different methods and estimated their implication for health care costs. Study Design Data were obtained from 5,476 surgical patients treated at a single academic children's hospital (January 1, 2010 through August 31, 2014). Surgical site infections within 30 days were identified using a clinical registry in the NSQIP Pediatric, an electronic surveillance method (Nosocomial Infection Marker; MedMined), and billing claims. Infection rates, diagnostic characteristics, and attributable costs were estimated for each of the 3 measures of SSI. Results Surgical site infections were observed in 2.24% of patients per NSQIP Pediatric definitions, 0.99% of patients per the Nosocomial Infection Marker, and 2.34% per billing claims definitions. Using NSQIP Pediatric as the clinical reference, Nosocomial Infection Marker had a sensitivity of 31.7% and positive predictive value of 72.2%, and billing claims had a sensitivity of 48.0% and positive predictive value of 46.1% for detection of an SSI. Nosocomial Infection Marker and billing claims overestimated the costs of SSIs by 108% and 41%, respectively. Conclusions There is poor correlation among SSIs measured using electronic surveillance, administrative claims, and clinically derived measures of SSI in the pediatric surgical population. Although these measures might be more convenient, clinically derived data, such as NSQIP Pediatric, may provide a more appropriate quality metric to estimate the postoperative burden of SSIs in children.
Another Look at Market Responses to Tangible and Intangible Information

As Gerakos and Linnainmaa (2016) point out, the Daniel and Titman (2006) decomposition of returns into tangible and intangible components can potentially be ambiguous. In particular DTâ€™s book-return, the adjusted growth rate in book value per-share which DT use as a tangible measure of long-term performance, can be affected by a firmâ€™s issuance and repurchase choices as well as by its profitability. This paper clarifies the relation between total book equity growth, our book-return measure, and our composite share issuance variable, and shows that our earlier conclusions are robust. We also provide out-ofsample tests.
Why my neighbor's health is important to me.

This effort has already brought important contributions to countries of low and middle incomes: the basic guidelines, which not only indicate how patients with breast cancer can be treated even with modest resources, but also provide a minimum level of care below which countries, governments and health care systems cannot even pretend that they provide care for women with breast cancer.
A continuing controversy: has the cometary nucleus been resolved?

Evidence is presented for classifying cometary nuclei into two basic types, described by core mantle and coreless models. Mass loss related nongravitational effects in a comet's motion as a function of time are included in considering gradual evaporation of an icy envelope surrounding the meteoric matrix in the core of the nucleus.
Sociology in the neighborhood: A university-community collaborative model for transformative change

Cet article fait part d'une experience de partenariat universite-communaute dans le sud d'Indianapolis aux Etats-Unis. Les AA. decrivent ici l'integration de l'enseignement superieur dans les communautes locales par l'application d'un modele conceptuel d'education urbaine, et discutent des changements organisationnels des institutions en presence
A mycobacterium avium subsp. Paratuberculosis predicted serine protease is associated with acid stress and intraphagosomal survival

Abstract The ability to maintain intra-cellular pH is crucial for bacteria and other microbes to survive in diverse environments, particularly those that undergo fluctuations in pH. Mechanisms of acid resistance remain poorly understood in mycobacteria. Although studies investigating acid stress in M. tuberculosis are gaining traction, few center on Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP), the etiological agent of chronic enteritis in ruminants. We identified a MAP acid stress response network involved in macrophage infection. The central node of this network was MAP0403, a predicted serine protease that shared an 86% amino acid identity with MarP in M. tuberculosis. Previous studies confirmed MarP as a serine protease integral to maintaining intra-bacterial pH and survival in acid in vitro and in vivo. We show that MAP0403 is upregulated in infected macrophage and MAC-T cells and coincided with phagosome acidification. Treatment of mammalian cells with bafilomcyin A1, a potent inhibitor of phagosomal vATPases, diminished MAP0403 transcription. MAP0403 expression was also noted in acidic medium. A surrogate host, M. smegmatis mc2 155, was designed to express MAP0403 and when exposed to either macrophages or in vitro acid stress had increase bacterial cell viability, which corresponds to maintenance of intra-bacterial pH in acidic (pH = 5) conditions. These data suggest that MAP0403 may be the equivalent of MarP in MAP. Future studies confirming MAP0403 as a serine protease and exploring its structure and possible substrates are warranted.
Susan Lindquist (1949-2016).

Susan Lindquist passed away on 27 October 2016, far too early for those who marveled at her brilliance through her many contributions to science, for all who knew her directly, and especially for her former trainees.
Where Did Interpretivism Go in the Theory of Entrepreneurship? The Creative Enactive Approach

This paper addresses two key shortcomings with the predominant philosophical foundations of entrepreneurship theory. The most commonly invoked meta- theories (e.g. critical realism, evolutionary re...
Edward F. Adolph Distinguished Lecture: Skin-deep insights into vascular aging.

The skin is an accessible model circulation for studying vascular function and dysfunction across the lifespan. Age-related changes, as well as those associated with disease progression, often appe...
From the Narratives of Survivors with Disabilities: Strengths and Gaps Between Faith-Based Communities and Domestic Violence Shelters

Little is known about how faith leaders and domestic violence advocates (DVAs) respond to women with disabilities (WWDs) of faith backgrounds experiencing IPV and whether their accessibility and safety needs are being met (physical, programmatic, and attitudinal). The following exploratory qualitative study of religious women with a variety of disabilities (mental health, physical health) from a Midwestern domestic violence shelter (DVS) found supportive and victim blaming responses by faith leaders, the use of helpful faith practices by survivors, and misuse of spiritual beliefs by perpetrators. WWD described barriers to seeking and receiving services such as shame and not being able to bring a faith perspective into DVS services and barriers related to disabilities such as needing accessible transportation and learning coping strategies with acquired disabilities. Specific disability dynamics such as the perpetrator blaming the abuse on the disability and exclusion and minimization of the disability by some faith leaders and DVAs hindered survivors from receiving accessible support. Finally, suggestions for more person-centered, accessible responses and interventions are given.
Confidence intervals in discrete event simulation: A comparison of replication and batch means

Suppose that we have enough computer time to make n observations of a stochastic process by means of simulation and would like to construct a confidence interval for the steady-state mean. We can make k independent runs of m observations each (n=k.m) or, alternatively, one run of n observations which we then divide into k batches of length m. These methods are known as replication and batch means, respectively. In this paper, using the probability of coverage and the half length of a confidence interval as criteria for comparison, we empirically show that batch means is superior to replication, but that neither method works well if n is too small. We also show that if m is chosen too small for replication, then the coverage may decrease dramatically as the total sample size n is increased.
Warming Up to Cold Start Personalization

Smart agents face abandonment if they are unable to provide value to the users from the very first interaction. Existing smart agents take time to learn about new users before they can offer them personalized services. We present a method for learning personalization information about users quickly and without placing unnecessary hardship on them. Our method enables smart agents to pick which questions to ask the user when they first interact to maximize the agent's overall knowledge about the user. We demonstrate our method on two publically available US census datasets containing 172 user variables from 1,799,394 training and 1,618,489 testing users. The questions selected using our method improve the agent's accuracy when inferring information about future users, including information that they did not ask about. Our work enables smart agents that assist the user with personalized services soon after they start interacting.
Molecular dynamics simulations and PRISM theory study of solutions of nanoparticles and triblock copolymers with solvophobic end blocks

Hybrid materials composed of inorganic nanoparticles (NPs) and amphiphilic block copolymers (BCPs) combine desirable properties of NPs with the rich phase behavior of BCPs, making them attractive for use in biomaterials, responsive materials for sensing, active materials in robotics, etc. Specifically, triblock BCPs (e.g. BAB) with solvophobic end (B) blocks have been known to form micelle dispersions at low concentrations and gels at higher concentrations, making them a useful class of soft materials for a variety of applications that harness these solution structures of BAB–BCPs. In this work, we present a comprehensive study of the impact of NPs on the assembly of BAB–BCPs as a function of solvophobicity, BCP composition and NP affinity to either or both block(s) of BAB–BCP using a combination of coarse-grained molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and PRISM theory. The reason we use this dual theory-simulation approach is because PRISM theory provides structure and thermodynamic information for a given BCP–NP solution much faster than MD simulations, but PRISM theory converges to a numerical solution only for conditions where the solution is still disordered. So, we use PRISM theory to screen BAB–BCP solutions at low solvophobicity where the solution is still disordered, and identify signatures of gel formation and micro- and macro-phase separation depending on BCP composition, concentration, and NP affinity. Then using MD simulations, with increasing solvophobicity as the system orders, we quantify and visualize the shape and size of assembled cores in the ordered morphology, the conformations adopted by the A blocks and B blocks with and without NPs, the amount of NP uptake and the spatial arrangement of the NPs in the assembled structure. This paper demonstrates how one could optimally use both PRISM theory and MD simulations in a synergistic manner to screen a large materials design space for polymers and nanoparticle systems.
Modulation of Cardiac Growth by Sympathethic Innervation: Differential Response between Normotensive and Hypertensive Rats

Sympathethic innervation of the heart develops during late gestation and is not fully mature until the end of the neonatal period. The onset of neuroeffector transmission coincides with the cessation of myocyte mitosis (Claycomb, 1976) and the beginning of cellular hypertrophy (Clubb and Bishop, 1984). This process must occur during normal development and growth but also occurs pathologically in the setting of heart disease and hypertension. Although hemodynamic load is a major stimulus for cardiac hypertrophy, it is not the sole regulatory mechanism as evidenced by hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which occurs in the presence of presumed normal hemodynamics.
Least-Squares Method for Laminar Flow Problems

A least-squares method is used to solve viscous flows encountered in boundary-layers problem. The formulation is described and the minimization equations derived are discretized with a second-order finite difference scheme. The set of algebraic equations is solved by line relaxation. One of the attractive features of the least-squares formulation is that the system behaves well in the presence of separation and reverse flow, as is demonstrated in the case of the boundary-layer flow with adverse pressure gradient.
MRI Trident sign trumps Aquaporin-4-IgG ELISA in discriminating Spinal Cord Sarcoidosis misdiagnosed as Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (P6.399)

Objective: To highlight the importance of the spinal cord MRI trident sign in diagnosis of inflammatory myelopathy. Background: MRI longitudinally extensive T2-hyperintense spinal cord lesions (LETM) are associated with Aquaporin-4-IgG seropositive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) but also occur in spinal cord sarcoidosis. Aquaporin-4-IgG detection using enzyme-linked-immunosorbent-assay (ELISA) has a 5-fold higher false positive rate than cell-based assays (CBA). The “Trident sign” of combined linear dorsal subpial and central canal enhancement is strongly suggestive of spinal cord sarcoidosis. Design/Methods: Case report academic medical center. Results: A 41-year-old man presented to a local facility with subacute inflammatory myelopathy. MRI demonstrated LETM extending 11 vertebral segments. CSF analysis revealed an elevated white cell count of 18/mcL (normal, 0–5) and protein of 95 mg/dL (normal, 0–35). Serum Aquaporin-4-IgG on ELISA was positive at 6.1 units/mL (normal, ≤3.0 units/mL), but CBA was negative. He was diagnosed with NMOSD and initiated corticosteroid taper and rituximab. Axial spinal cord MRI revealed dorsal subpial and central canal gadolinium enhancement in the hallmark trident appearance. CT chest showed borderline mediastinal lymphadenopathy but 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET/CT demonstrated strongly FDG avid bilateral hilar and mediastinal lymphadenopathy (SUV max 7.2). Transbronchial fine needle aspirate showed clusters of epithelioid histiocytes compatible with granulomatous inflammation. Patient was diagnosed with neurosarcoidosis and high dose oral prednisone monotherapy was recommended and rituximab was discontinued. Conclusions: The trident sign is strongly suggestive of spinal cord sarcoidosis and was diagnostically helpful in this Aquaporin-4-IgG ELISA positive case. CBA is more specific than Aquaporin-4-IgG ELISA. Disclosure: Dr. Jolliffe has nothing to disclose. Dr. Keegan has nothing to disclose. Dr Flanagan has nothing to disclose.
Over–under versus medial tympanoplasty: Comparison of benefit, success, and hearing results

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS A hybrid variation of a tympanoplasty technique, termed over-under tympanoplasty (OUT), was evaluated to demonstrate the long-term outcomes and complications compared to medial tympanoplasty. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective review. METHODS Patients who underwent a tympanoplasty between 2010 and 2015 were included. Primary outcome measures included graft healing at 18 months, change in air-bone gap (ABG), and change in high-frequency hearing at 8 kHz. The Shapiro-Wilk test, Student t test, and nonparametric Mann-Whitney test were used to compare results. Univariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify potential predictors of surgical success. RESULTS One hundred eleven patients were included; 84 underwent the over-under technique and 27 underwent medial tympanoplasty. At the 18-month follow-up, 100% of patients in the medial tympanoplasty group had closure of the TM perforation compared to 84% (71/84) in the over-under group. In the over-under group, 12% of patients developed small or pinpoint perforations, and 4% developed larger, recurrent perforations. Mean improvement in ABG was similar between the two groups (11.6 dB for the medial group vs. 11.9 dB for the over-under group, P < .001). No hearing loss was noted in either group. No lateralization of the graft or anterior blunting was noted. CONCLUSIONS In this series, the OUT technique had a high success rate with TM perforations, including anterior, near total, and total perforations. Hearing loss from dissection on the malleus was not found. This approach blends the advantages and minimizes the disadvantages of the classic techniques and is well suited for all types of tympanic membrane perforations. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 3b Laryngoscope, 129:1206-1210, 2019.
Array-Based Statistical Analysis of the MK-3 Authenticated Encryption Scheme

Authenticated encryption (AE) schemes are symmetric key cryptographic methods that support confidentiality, integrity and source authentication. There are many AE algorithms in existence today, in part thanks to the CAESAR competition for authenticated encryption, which is in its final stage. In our previous work we introduced a novel AE algorithm MK-3 (not part of the CAESAR competition), which is based on the duplex sponge construction and it is using novel large $16\times 16$ AES-like S-boxes. Unlike most AE schemes, MK-3 scheme provides additional customization features for users who desire unique solutions. This makes it well suited for government and military applications. In this paper, we develop a new array-based statistical analysis approach to evaluate randomness of cryptographic primitives and show its effectiveness in the analysis of MK-3. One of the strengths of this method is that it focuses on the randomness of cryptographic primitive function rather than only on the randomness of the output.
Multi-scale thermal stability study of commercial lithium-ion batteries as a function of cathode chemistry and state-of-charge

Abstract This paper takes a critical look at the materials aspects of thermal runaway of lithium-ion batteries and correlates contributions from individual cell components to thermal runaway trends. An accelerating rate calorimeter (ARC) was used to evaluate commercial lithium-ion cells based on LiCoO2 (LCO), LiFePO4 (LFP), and LiNixCoyAl1-x-yO2 (NCA) at various states of charge (SOC). Cells were disassembled and the component properties were evaluated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and temperature-resolved X-ray diffraction (TR-XRD). The whole cell thermal runaway onset temperature decreases and peak heating rate increases with SOC due to cathode destabilization. LCO and NCA cathodes are metastable, with NCA cells exhibiting the highest thermal runaway rates. By contrast, the LFP cathode is stable to >500 °C, even when charged. For anodes, the decomposition and whole cell self-heating onset temperature is generally independent of SOC. DSC exotherm onset temperatures of the anodes were generally within 10 °C of the onset of self-heating in whole cell ARC. However, onset temperatures of the cathodes were typically observed above the ARC onset of whole cell runaway. This systematic evaluation of component to whole cell degradation provides a scientific basis for future thermal modeling and design of safer cells.
Utility Encompasses Both Clinical Translation and Ecologic Validity.

CITATIONSchade MM, Montgomery-Downs HE. Utility encompasses both clinical translation and ecologic validity. J Clin Sleep Med. 2019;15(11):1709.
Trial design for ineffectiveness research: a mixed-methods survey.

High-quality research demonstrating a lack of effectiveness may facilitate the ‘de-adoption’ of ineffective health services. However, there has been little debate on the optimal design for ineffectiveness research—studies exploring the research hypothesis that an intervention is ineffective. The aim of this study was to explore investigators’ preferences for trial design for ineffectiveness research. We conducted a mixed-methods online survey with principle investigators identified from clinicaltrials.gov. A vignette described researchers planning a trial to test a widely used intervention they hypothesised was ineffective. One multiple-choice question asked whether a superiority trial or equivalence trial design was favoured, and one free-response question asked about the reasons for that choice. Free-response answers were analysed using content analysis to identify related reasons. 139 participants completed the survey (completion rate 37.5%). Overall, 56.8% favoured superiority trials, 27.3% favoured equivalence trials and 15.8% were unsure. Reasons identified for favouring superiority trials were: (1) evidence of superiority should be required to justify active treatment, (2) superiority trials are more familiar, (3) placebo should not be the comparator in equivalence trials and (4) superiority trials require smaller sample sizes. Reasons identified for favouring equivalence trials were: (1) negative superiority trials represent a lack of evidence of effectiveness, not evidence of ineffectiveness and (2) the research hypothesis should not be the same as the null hypothesis. A minority of experienced researchers favour equivalence trials for ineffectiveness research, and misconceptions and lack of familiarity with equivalence trials may be contributing factors.
Solidarity and the incarnation: A dialogue with Denise Ackermann and Allan Boesak

This paper will discuss how the doctrine of the incarnation informs practices of solidarity in the public and political spheres through the work of two South African activists and theologians, Rev Dr Allan Boesak and Dr Denise Ackermann. I will begin with explicating Ackermann’s task of theology, its ground in praxis and human experience, which will lead to a discussion of stories and theology. As we begin to listen to the stories of those around us, we find we need an account of human agency and the particular stories we are told of the incarnation through the Eucharist . Defining solidarity will be the next task, which will begin with Boesak’s discussion of “critical solidarity”, or solidarity between powerful parties. We will then continue to construct our definition of solidarity through Boesak’s model of black solidarity as explicated in his dissertation, Farewell to Innocence. Finally, I will synthesize a theology of solidarity in conclusion to this conversation.
Kufundisha: Toward a Pedagogy for Black Studies:

At its inception, Black studies aimed to revolutionize the research and teaching of the Black experience. In part, the new discipline has accomplished its mission. During the past 25 years, Black studies scholars have radically transformed how scholars study the African American experience. Before the development of Black studies, African American life and history were studied predominantly through the lens of the race relations paradigm. Scholars using this conceptual framework examined the sociohistorical experiences of African people via their relationship to
2,3-Dimethyl-1H-imidazol-3-ium chloride

The title salt, C5H9N2+·Cl−, exhibits multiple hydrogen-bonding inter­actions between the cationic imidazole moiety and the chloride anion. The protonated aromatic nitro­gen moiety displays the shortest hydrogen-bonding inter­actions while weaker hydrogen bonding is observed between the aromatic H atoms and the chloride anion. The crystal studied was refined as a two-component inversion twin with a twin ratio of 0.71 (5) to 0.29 (5).
Controlling protein adsorption modes electrostatically

Protein adsorption on surfaces is ubiquitous in biology and in biotechnology. There are various forces required for controlling protein adsorption. Here, we introduce an explicit ion coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulation approach for studying the effects of electrostatics on protein adsorption, and 2D protein assembly on charged surfaces. Our model accounts for the spatial distribution of protein charges. We use catalase as our model protein. We find that the preferential adsorption mode of proteins at low protein concentration on a charged surface is "standing up". When the protein concentration in a solution increases to reach a critical density on the surface, the adsorption mode switches from "standing up" to a mixed state "flat on" and "standing up", which increases the lateral correlations among the adsorbed proteins. As such, the changes in the adsorption mode arise from the protein adsorption that cancel the surface charge and the protein-protein repulsion. This correlated surface structure melts as the salt concentration increases because the charged surface is cancelled by the salt ions and the proteins de-adsorb. For the case of strongly charged surfaces the "standing up" conformation remains more favorable even at high protein adsorption at low salt concentrations since in that conformation the surface charge is cancelled more effectively, generating an even more laterally correlated structure. We elucidate the effects of parameters such as surface charge density, salt concentration, and protein charges on the different adsorption modes and the structure and organization of proteins on the charged surfaces. This study provides a guide for controlling protein assembly on surfaces.
Willingness to risk death endpoint in HIV cure-related research with otherwise healthy volunteers is misleading.

Abstract This viewpoint article critiques two recent articles examining ‘willingness to risk death’ to advance HIV cure-related research. The ‘willingness to risk death’ endpoint sends the wrong signal to the HIV cure-related research community about ongoing research in otherwise healthy volunteers living with HIV. Socio-behavioural scientists have examined the acceptability of a 99% risk of death scenario, which is unrealistic and would not be acceptable by current regulatory and ethical standards. We believe that the field needs robust and relevant socio-behavioural research reflecting ongoing biomedical HIV cure-related trials. These studies will need to withstand regulatory and ethical scrutiny if cure or remission regimens are to proceed to the licensing stage. The HIV cure-related research community must continue to protect the public trust in the HIV cure-related research field and sustain societal value generated by such research. We call for the utmost prudence in designing biomedical HIV cure trials as well as in setting up socio-behavioural research experiments related to these complex trials.
Electrophysiological correlates of emotion word processing in Spanish–English bilinguals

We examined how proficiency influences the processing of emotion words in Spanish–English bilinguals (22 balanced and 20 unbalanced). All unbalanced bilinguals were more proficient in English than Spanish. Participants rated the valence of negative, neutral, and positive words in both languages while EEG was being recorded. ERP latencies and amplitudes were analyzed for two components. The language effect was significant on the late positive component (LPC) amplitude, which was larger for emotion than for neutral words for both groups in English. The unbalanced group presented larger LPC amplitudes for positive than for neutral and for neutral than for negative words in Spanish, suggesting emotion processing differences in these participants’ less proficient language. Valence effects were consistent across languages for the balanced group, but not for the unbalanced group, perhaps reflecting differences in reactivity to emotion words in the less proficient language.
Navigating decisional conflict as a family when facing the decision of stem cell transplant for a child or adolescent with sickle cell disease.

Abstract Objective Patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) face unpredictable disease, with stem cell transplant being a curative treatment option with risks. The aim of this study was to describe the level and source of decisional conflict in families of children/adolescents with SCD facing a transplant decision. Methods A multiple-case study approach described decisional conflict in various SCD severity/donor risk decisional contexts. Cases included parents, child/adolescent with SCD, and sibling donor. The level and source of conflict was measured via O’Connor’s Decisional Conflict Scale and analyzed using pattern-matching and cross-case synthesis. In-depth descriptions of conflict sources were obtained through thematic analysis of observation and interview data. Results Among 11 participants in four cases (i.e. family units) decisional conflict was not unique not to the decisional context. Conflict levels represented a level that can be linked with feeling unsure and decisional delay. The theme, ‘navigating decisional conflict together’, described how family units discussed uncertainties. Conclusion Varying levels and sources of decisional conflict exist in pediatric patients with SCD and their families considering transplant. Practice Implications In our cases, decisional conflict and the transplant decision occurred at the family-level. Clinicians should encourage all family members to participate in discussions concerning transplant.
Testing the Buffering Effect of Social Relationships in a Prospective Study of Disability Onset

Social support has been proposed to be a protective factor that buffers the losses that result from the experience of negative life events. The present study uses data from a large-scale Australian...
Neuropsychological Testing for Adolescents with ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common of several conditions that fall under the umbrella term neurodevelopmental disorder or an atypical development of the central nervous system (CNS) that becomes apparent in early childhood (Bishop D, Rutter M. Neurodevelopmental disorders: conceptual issues. In: Rutter M, Bishop DV, Pine DS, Scott S, Stevenson J, Taylor E, Thapar A, editors. Rutter’s child and adolescent psychiatry. Oxford: Blackwell, 2008, p. 32–41; Rowland AS, Lesesne CA, Abramowitz AJ, Ment Retard DevDisabil Res Rev 8(3):162–70, 2002). Despite being categorized as a brain disorder, ADHD is defined behaviorally. As reviewed in the last chapter, ADHD has no distinctive biomarker, meaning there is no blood test, brain scan, or other conclusive measure to determine this diagnosis. Instead, ADHD is diagnosed based on a child’s developmental and clinical history, informal and standardized reports of behavior, clinician observations, and, sometimes, neuropsychological testing. An assessment of ADHD should ideally use a multimodal and multidisciplinary approach (American Academy of Pediatrics, Pediatrics 128(5):1007–22, 2011) and include information obtained from several sources to assess symptoms across settings, a comprehensive history to determine age of onset and duration of symptoms, assessment of functional impairment, and evaluation for possible coexisting conditions. Currently, many children and adolescents are diagnosed with ADHD by a primary care provider (Visser SN, Zablotsky B, Holbrook JR, Danielson ML, Bitsko RH, Natl Health Stat Rep 81:1–7, 2015); however, appointment time limitations interfere with consistent adherence to the diagnostic criteria outlined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) (American Psychiatric Association, Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders: DSM-5. Arlington: American Psychiatric Publishing, 2013). A brief visit with a primary care pediatrician is not the ideal setting for diagnostic conceptualization of a teenager with a new ADHD concern (Pritchard AE, Nigro CA, Jacobson LA, Mahone EM, Neuropsychol Rev 22(1):54–68, 2012). Comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations are lengthy and more thorough and include formal testing, yet there is ongoing debate as to the added value of neuropsychological assessment in the diagnostic and treatment process in youth with ADHD. But in many regions, parents of children with inattention or school difficulties are automatically advised to “get a neuropsych eval.” This chapter reviews what that means. We also cover who, when, and why a neuropsychological evaluation is indicated for an adolescent with ADHD symptoms. Finally, clinicians are directed to specific sections of this chapter, while parents and teachers may prefer to focus on boxed tips, search specific sections, or find a specific test to better understand its function.
Ecotoxicology assessments in avian species using cell-based models: A review:

Cell-based models in avian species have historically focused on virology due to the demands of animal agriculture and vaccine production industries. Recent years have witnessed a gradual rise in th...
Substance use-related suicide after release from correctional, behavioral health, and healthcare facilities using national violent death reporting system data.

INTRODUCTION Suicide and substance use are prevalent problems among persons discharged from facilities. This study (1) articulated rates of substance-related suicide deaths among those discharged correctional, behavioral health, and healthcare facilities, and (2) identified factors associated with substance-related suicide deaths unique to, or generalizing across, facility discharge. METHODS We used data from the National Violent Death Reporting System. Suicide deaths (N = 105,968) were aggregated from 2003 to 2017. Chi-square and independent samples t-tests were used to examine associations between drug/alcohol-related deaths and each correlate. Logistic regression was employed to identify the most robust substance-related suicide death-related factors. RESULTS Suicide deaths were commonly marked as being substance-related: 69% from correctional institutions, 54% from behavioral health facilities, 45% from those not released from a facility, and 39% from healthcare facilities. Regression models indicated housing interruptions and interpersonal stressors increased odds of the suicide death being marked as substance-related across discharge categories. Each discharge category also had unique predictors, underscoring the need for tailored prevention. CONCLUSIONS Substance-related suicide deaths are particularly common among adults discharged from correctional and behavioral health facilities. Findings are discussed with respect to community-focused, discharge planning, and clinical care suicide prevention strategies.
Targeted metabolomic analysis identifies increased serum levels of GABA and branched chain amino acids in canine diabetes

Dogs with naturally occurring diabetes mellitus represent a potential model for human type 1 diabetes, yet significant knowledge voids exist in terms of the pathogenic mechanisms underlying the canine disorder. Untargeted metabolomic studies from a limited number of diabetic dogs identified similarities to humans with the disease. To expand and validate earlier metabolomic studies, identify metabolites that differ consistently between diabetic and healthy dogs, and address whether certain metabolites might serve as disease biomarkers. Untargeted metabolomic analysis via liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry was performed on serum from diabetic (n = 15) and control (n = 15) dogs. Results were combined with those of our previously published studies using identical methods (12 diabetic and 12 control dogs) to identify metabolites consistently different between the groups in all 54 dogs. Thirty-two candidate biomarkers were quantified using targeted metabolomics. Biomarker concentrations were compared between the groups using multiple linear regression (corrected P < 0.0051 considered significant). Untargeted metabolomics identified multiple persistent differences in serum metabolites in diabetic dogs compared with previous studies. Targeted metabolomics showed increases in gamma amino butyric acid, valine, leucine, isoleucine, citramalate, and 2-hydroxyisobutyric acid in diabetic versus control dogs while indoxyl sulfate, N-acetyl-L-aspartic acid, kynurenine, anthranilic acid, tyrosine, glutamine, and tauroursodeoxycholic acid were decreased. Several of these findings parallel metabolomic studies in both human diabetes and other animal models of this disease. Given recent studies on the role of GABA and branched chain amino acids in human diabetes, the increase in serum concentrations in canine diabetes warrants further study of these metabolites as potential biomarkers, and to identify similarity in mechanisms underlying this disease in humans and dogs.
Impaired oligodendrocyte maturation is an early feature in SCA3 disease pathogenesis

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3), the most common dominantly inherited ataxia, is a polyglutamine neurodegenerative disease for which there is no disease-modifying therapy. The polyglutamine-encoding CAG repeat expansion in the ATXN3 gene results in expression of a mutant form of the ATXN3 protein, a deubiquitinase that causes selective neurodegeneration despite being widely expressed. The mechanisms driving neurodegeneration in SCA3 are unclear. Research to date, however, has focused almost exclusively on neurons. Here, using equal male and female age-matched transgenic mice expressing full-length human mutant ATXN3, we identified early and robust transcriptional changes in selectively vulnerable brain regions that implicate oligodendrocytes in disease pathogenesis. We mapped transcriptional changes across early, mid, and late stages of disease in two selectively vulnerable brain regions, the cerebellum and brainstem. The most significant disease-associated module through weighted gene co-expression network analysis revealed dysfunction in SCA3 oligodendrocyte maturation. These results reflect a toxic gain of function mechanism, as ATXN3 knockout mice do not exhibit any impairments in oligodendrocyte maturation. Genetic crosses to reporter mice revealed a marked reduction in mature oligodendrocytes in SCA3-disease vulnerable brain regions and ultrastructural microscopy confirmed abnormalities in axonal myelination. Further study of isolated oligodendrocyte precursor cells from SCA3 mice established that this impairment in oligodendrocyte maturation is a cell autonomous process. We conclude that SCA3 is not simply a disease of neurons and the search for therapeutic strategies and disease biomarkers will need to account for non-neuronal involvement in SCA3 pathogenesis.