cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Development and evaluation of a standardized method and atlas for contouring primary and permanent dentition

Objectives:Radiation toxicity of the dentition may present significant treatment-related morbidity in the paediatric head and neck cancer population. However, clear dose–effect relationships remain undetermined and must be predicated upon accurate structure delineation and dosimetry at the individual tooth level. Radiation oncologists generally have limited familiarity or experience with relevant dental anatomy.Methods:We therefore developed a detailed CT atlas of permanent and primary dentition. After studying this atlas, five radiation oncology clinicians delineated all teeth for each of eight different cases (selected for breadth of dental maturity and anatomical variability). They were asked to record confidence in their contours on a per-tooth basis as well as the duration of time required per case. Contour accuracy and interclinician variability were assessed by Hausdorff distance and Dice similarity coefficient. All analyses were performed using R v. 3.1.1 and the RadOnc v. 1.0.9 package.Results:Pa...
The Social Warp of Science: Writing the History of Genetic Engineering Policy

Traditional empiricism, although largely abandoned, has marked the social studies of science through the persistent division between macrolevel analysis of the institutions promoting and regulating...
Alpha‐2B adrenergic receptor (ADRA2B) 301‐303 deletion polymorphism and vascular desensitization in vivo

Alpha-2 adrenergic receptors (ADRA2) play important roles in both central and peripheral regulation of vascular tone. The ADRA2B subtype mediates vasoconstriction and a common genetic variation, 301-303 deletion, was associated with loss of agonist-induced desensitization in vitro. Desensitization of vascular ADRA2 responses in vivo has not been previously described; nor is the effect of genetic variation known. We examined the hypothesis that 301-303del polymorphism affects vascular desensitization to the selective ADRA2 agonist, dexmedetomidine (Dex) in vivo. Incremental doses of Dex (0.01–1000 ng/min) were infused into a dorsal hand vein (DHV) in 28 healthy subjects (age 18-45 years) and responses measured using a linear variable differential transformer. A dose-response curve was constructed and the ED50 calculated. On a separate day, the Dex dose that had caused at least 50% venoconstriction in the dose-response study was infused for three hours and response measured every 30 minutes. The area under the curve for DHV response normalized to the initial response (nAUC) was calculated. Genotyping for 301-303del was performed, and relation to nAUC was determined. There was more than 3-fold inter-individual variability in nAUC. This was not related to ADRA2B genotype (p=0.846). Inter-individual variability in vascular responses to ADRA2 agonist over time occurs, but is not explained by the ADRA2B 301-303del. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2004) 75, P95–P95; doi: 10.1016/j.clpt.2003.11.363
Division of labor and the rise of cities: evidence from US industrialization, 1850-1880

Industrial revolution in the USA first took hold in rural New England as factories arose and grew in a handful of industries such as textiles and shoes. However, as factory scale economies rose and factory production techniques were adopted by an ever-growing number of industries, industrialization became concentrated in cities throughout the Northeastern region which came to be known as the manufacturing belt. While it is extremely difficult to rule out other types of agglomeration economies such as spillovers, this paper suggests that these geographic developments associated with industrial revolution in the USA are most consistent with explanations based on division of labor, job search, and matching costs.
Nonlinear response of microwave-irradiated two-dimensional electron systems near the second harmonic of the cyclotron resonance

Recent experiments on microwave-irradiated high-mobility two-dimensional electron systems [Dai et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 105, 246802 (2010); Hatke et al., Phys. Rev. B 83 121301(R) (2011)] revealed a novel photoresistivity peak in the vicinity of the second cyclotron resonance harmonic. Here we report on the nonlinear transport measurements and demonstrate that the peak can be induced by modest dc fields and that its position is $\mathit{not}$ affected even by strong dc fields, in contrast to microwave-induced resistance oscillations that shift to higher magnetic fields. These findings reinforce the notion that the peak cannot be described by existing models and provide important constraints for further theoretical considerations.
A bio-facilitated synthetic route for nano-structured complex electrode materials

We investigate an energy-efficient synthesis that merges the bio-templated technique and solid-state reactions to produce nano-structured lithiated polyanions. With the aid of bio-templates based on an M13 virus, the thermal budget of an annealing process can be reduced, and the nano-structured characteristics of the precursors are preserved in the product. This method enables us to successfully prepare monoclinic LiMnBO3 with an average particle size of 20 nm in a 1 h annealing process, showing improved electrochemical properties compared with the conventionally synthesized one. Thus, we consider that this bio-facilitated method can open up an environmentally-friendly pathway to produce nano-structured electrode materials with an enhanced performance.
Influence of cations on aggregation rates in Mg-montmorillonite

Critical-zone reactions involve inorganic and biogenic colloids in a cation-rich environment. The present research defines the rates and structure of purified Mg-montmorillonite aggregates formed in the presence of monovalent (K+) and divalent (Ca2+, Mg 2+) cations using light-extinction measurements. Time evolution of turbidity was employed to determine early-stage aggregation rates. Turbidity spectra were used to measure the fractal dimension at later stages. The power law dependence of the stability ratios on cation concentration was found to vary with the reciprocal of the valence rather than the predicted reciprocal of valence-squared, indicating that the platelet structure may be a factor influencing aggregation rates. The critical coagulation concentrations (CCC) (3 mM for CaCl2, 4 mM for MgCl2, and 70 mM for KCl) were obtained from the stability ratios. At a later time and above a minimal cation concentration, turbidity reached a quasi-stable state, indicating the formation of large aggregates. Under this condition, an approximate turbidity forward-scattering correction factor was applied and the fractal dimension was determined from the extinction spectra. For the divalent cations, the fractal dimensions were 1.65 ± 0.3 for Ca2+ and 1.75 ± 0.3 for Mg2+ and independent of cation concentrations above the CCC. For the monovalent cation, the fractal dimension increased with K+ concentration from 1.35 to 1.95, indicating a transition to a face-to-face geometry from either an edge-to-edge or edge-to-face orientation.
A Note Pertaining to Kepler's Third Law

(1931). A Note Pertaining to Kepler's Third Law. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 38, No. 9P1, pp. 521-522.
EVOLUTION OF PLANT POLLINATION SYSTEMS: HYPOTHESES AND TESTS WITH THE NEOTROPICAL VINE DALECHAMPIA.

The results of pollination and mating-system studies were integrated with a phylogenetic study of 40 Neotropical species of Dalechampia L. (Euphorbiaceae) to reconstruct the history of evolutionary change in pollination systems. The results of this analysis were treated as a hypothesis and tested for circularity problems and robustness in the face of changes in the data set. The historical hypothesis was used to make specific predictions about details of pollination ecology and reward biochemistry; the predictions were supported by independent observations. I conclude that pollination systems in Dalechampia have been evolutionarily labile, relative to most morphological features, with repeated parallelisms and reversals. Transitions among the three pollination systems evolved by Dalechampia (pollination by resin-collecting bees, fragrance-collecting male euglossine bees, and pollen-collecting bees) have been facilitated by biochemical exaptation (preadaptation). Pollination by male euglossine bees is relatively rare in the genus but has originated independently three to four times. In contrast, pollination by resin-collecting female bees is very common, but has originated only once. Eighty-six to 97% of transitions between pollination systems involved an intermediate phase during which both old and new pollinators were effective, but 3 to 14% of transitions may have been "instantaneous," lacking the intermediate phase. Clades of species secreting resin rewards are about 10 times as species rich as clades of species secreting fragrance rewards; circumstantial evidence suggests that different extinction rates may be responsible for this difference. Relatively allogamous (cross-pollinating) species have evolved from more autogamous (self-pollinating) species up to 13 times, and autogamous species have evolved from more allogamous ones up to 11 times. Species occurring in disturbed habitats are facultatively autogamous, whereas species of undisturbed habitats are often highly allogamous.
NATURAL HYBRIDIZATION OF SALVIA APIANA AND S. MELLIFERA

Reference is made with increasing frequency in plant taxonomic literature to the occurrence in nature of interspecific hybrids: Ceanothus (McMinn, 1942), Sctlvza (Epling, 1942), Balsamorhiza (Ownbey and Weber, 1943), Clematis (Erickson, 1945), Wyethia (Weber, 1946), and Aquilegia (Munz, 1946), to cite some of the more recent. In these examples, so far as the reader is able to judge, F1 hybrids, backcrosses and even hybrid swarms may occur. Because of the weak intrinsic barriers between species. which characterize these and many other plant groups, the assumption might logically be made that gene flow between the species concerned would obliterate or blur the specific morphological differences if long continued. Yet the taxonomic treatment in such papers suggests that the constancy of the species concerned has not been materially affected. The observations which follow seem to confirm this latter view and to indicate that gene flow from species to species does not ordinarily occur, or if so, at a level difficult to distinguish from expected intraspecific variation, even though continued hybridization may seemingly provide a channel.
The 'true' prevalence of bipolar II disorder.

Purpose of reviewMany studies – including meta-analyses – do not distinguish between bipolar I and II disorder. The aim of this study is to review the recent literature on the prevalence, correlates, consequences, and treatment patterns of bipolar II disorder.Recent findingsIn the past 2 years, seve
Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome in Dandong Fengcheng city and rodent poison case investigation

Objective In order to know the host animal density,composition and infection,and provide scientific basis for hemorrhagic fever control.Methods Night trap method.Results A total of 700 mice,belonging to 4 families,7 genera 9 species in 2008-2010,which located in residential courtyard,storeroom and farm field,grass,bushes and other.The dominant species were Apodemus agrarius and Rattus norvegicus.The average density was 3.83%,the poison rate was 9%.Conclusion Fengcheng area of EHF epidemic peak and autumn rat density is higher in closely related.This control fever incidence and prevalence of key lies in the spring and autumn before the launch of village inside and outside the larger size of rodent prevention work and hemorrhagic fever vaccination work.It is necessary to reduce the labor and the home environment and rat exposure and improve immunity,so as to control and reduce the incidence of hemorrhagic fever effectively.
Analysis on the Motivation of the Multinational Company Mergence in China

With the development of globalization since 1990s,multinational mergence has become the primary means of the direct investment in foreign countries.In these years,more multinational companies take the mergence as their primary means to enter China’s market.The mergence behaviors comply with their global strategy.The major motivation for multinational company mergence in China are resources and market.
Study of Reliability Analysis of Damaged Piezoelectric Structure

According to the piezoelectric material damage theory and the fracture criterion based on damage theory,which has been established by Yang et al.,reliability analysis is carried through about a damaged piezoelectric truss.Taking the mechanical damage extension force,electric damage extension force and cross-section area of bar element as stochastic variables,the expression of safety margins of bar element is proposed.Based on those,the SFEM and PNET method are introduced to solve the reliability index of the structural system.The result indicates that positive applied and negative applied electric field have great effect on the reliability of the system,which provides the basis to control the reliability of structural system.Finally,a calculation example is carried out under the conditions of positive applied electric field,negative applied electric field and no electric field.Meantime,the quantification results of the reliability index under three conditions are compared with each other.
Risk of Epilepsy in Offspring Exposed to Preeclampsia or Eclampsia

Researchers at the University of Aarhus, Denmark, and at centers in China and US, conducted a population-based study of singletons born in Denmark (1978-2004) with information on preeclampsia and epilepsy obtained from the Danish National Hospital Register.
Thyroid hormone increases the partitioning of glucose transporters to the plasma membrane in ARL 15 cells.

The stimulation of glucose transport by 3,5,3'-triiodo-L-thyronine (T3) in the liver-derived ARL 15 cell line is only partly attributable to increased GLUT-1 glucose transporter gene expression. To...
Optogenetic manipulation of neural circuits in awake marmosets

Optogenetics has revolutionized the study of functional neuronal circuitry (Boyden ES, Zhang F, Bamberg E, Nagel G, Deisseroth K. Nat Neurosci 8: 1263-1268, 2005; Deisseroth K. Nat Methods 8: 26-29, 2011). Although these techniques have been most successfully implemented in rodent models, they have the potential to be similarly impactful in studies of nonhuman primate brains. Common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) have recently emerged as a candidate primate model for gene editing, providing a potentially powerful model for studies of neural circuitry and disease in primates. The application of viral transduction methods in marmosets for identifying and manipulating neuronal circuitry is a crucial step in developing this species for neuroscience research. In the present study we developed a novel, chronic method to successfully induce rapid photostimulation in individual cortical neurons transduced by adeno-associated virus to express channelrhodopsin (ChR2) in awake marmosets. We found that large proportions of neurons could be effectively photoactivated following viral transduction and that this procedure could be repeated for several months. These data suggest that techniques for viral transduction and optical manipulation of neuronal populations are suitable for marmosets and can be combined with existing behavioral preparations in the species to elucidate the functional neural circuitry underlying perceptual and cognitive processes.
Plant-based oral vaccines against zoonotic and non-zoonotic diseases

Summary The shared diseases between animals and humans are known as zoonotic diseases and spread infectious diseases among humans. Zoonotic diseases are not only a major burden to livestock industry but also threaten humans accounting for >60% cases of human illness. About 75% of emerging infectious diseases in humans have been reported to originate from zoonotic pathogens. Because antibiotics are frequently used to protect livestock from bacterial diseases, the development of antibiotic-resistant strains of epidemic and zoonotic pathogens is now a major concern. Live attenuated and killed vaccines are the only option to control these infectious diseases and this approach has been used since 1890. However, major problems with this approach include high cost and injectable vaccines is impractical for >20 billion poultry animals or fish in aquaculture. Plants offer an attractive and affordable platform for vaccines against animal diseases because of their low cost, and they are free of attenuated pathogens and cold chain requirement. Therefore, several plant-based vaccines against human and animals diseases have been developed recently that undergo clinical and regulatory approval. Plant-based vaccines serve as ideal booster vaccines that could eliminate multiple boosters of attenuated bacteria or viruses, but requirement of injectable priming with adjuvant is a current limitation. So, new approaches like oral vaccines are needed to overcome this challenge. In this review, we discuss the progress made in plant-based vaccines against zoonotic or other animal diseases and future challenges in advancing this field.
Environmental Contaminant Studies by the Patuxent Wildlife Research Center

Evaluation of the effects of environmental contaminants on wildlife is geared to interpreting events in the field, especially population effects, and both field and laboratory studies are planned for this purpose; procedures are adapted to specific problems and therefore do not include strict protocols or routine testing. Field evaluations include measurements of cholinesterase inhibition in brain or blood, search for dead or disabled animals, study of nesting success of birds, and general ecological observations. Residue analyses are used in evaluating organochlorine chemicals; samples may include whole bodies for determining level of exposure, brains for mortality diagnosis, whole blood for certain special studies, and eggs to help in evaluation of possible reproductive effects. Bird counts, singing-male census counts, small mammal trapping, and cage-in-field tests have proven to be ineffective or misleading and are not considered suitable for field evaluations under most circumstances. Usefulness of simulated field trials is limited to very special situations. Experimental studies that help predict and interpret field effects include determinations of lethal diagnostic levels, comparative lethal dietary toxicity tests, tests of secondary poisoning, measurement of residue loss rates, measurement of blood enzymes, tests of behavioral effects, and studies of reproductive effects.
Physiatry and Function: Common Issues in Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) gained prominence in the early to mid twentieth century with the rise of war-related injuries. With the inadequacies of the existing medical paradigm increasingly more obvious, a biopsychosocial orientation emerged with a team of providers to address the inter-related issues of disabled individuals. Health professionals with complementary skills working in a coordinated goal-directed manner are successful at improving the lives of individuals with functional loss. This approach has proven useful across the spectrum of medical conditions including adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This chapter describes the salient themes of pain, fatigue, mobility, contractures and continence which impact adults with IDD and offers strategies to promote function, community participation, and quality of life.
Indigenous Models of Career Development and Vocational Psychology

Beginning with a review of the three approaches in cross-cultural psychology, namely traditional cross-cultural psychology, cultural psychology, and indigenous psychologies, in the current chapter we advocate for the development and utility of indigenous models of vocational psychology. Indigenous models of psychology are increasing in their popularity as an approach for understanding behavior in specific cultures. The concepts of cultural validity and cultural specificity facing current psychological models are used as a theoretical framework for advocating indigenous approaches. Most of the existing models in vocational psychology have been developed for and based on Western samples. Instead of assuming that these models will automatically be valid and relevant to other cultural samples, studies of their cultural validity are needed.
Migration patterns of avian embryonic bone marrow cells and their differentiation to functional T and B cells.

Previous studies by Moore and Owen (1,2) as well as more recent experiments with interspecific chimeras (3,4) support the concept that blood-borne lymphoid cell precursors immigrate into the bursa as well as into the thymus. These precursors presumably are multipotential stem cells that according to some investigators originate in the yolk sac (5), whereas others propose certain intraembryo-nic hematopoietic islands as the first recognizable source of stem cells (4,6). By 14–18 days of embryonation, stem cells capable of migrating to the thymus and bursa have been detected in additional hematopoietic sites such as spleen and bone marrow (2). None of the above experiments, however, have formally demonstrated that this migration of cells to the thymus and bursa is in all instances followed by functional differentiation to T and B cells respectively. This is simply assumed and extensively quoted as if it were established fact. It is not without challenge, however, and a recent study concluded that embryonic bone marrow does not harbor bursal precursor cells and suggested that the previously demonstrated migration of 14–18 day embryonic spleen and bone marrow to the bursa may have been of no physiological significance and probably represented nonspecific trapping (7). It is apparent that considerable confusion and controversy exists in relation to early events in T and B cell ontogeny.
OPTIMIZING AND EXTREMIZING NONLINEAR BOUNDARY VALUE PROBLEMS IN LENTICULAR ANTENNAS IN OCEANOGRAPHY, MEDICINE & COMMUNICATIONS: SOME SOLUTIONS AND SOME QUESTIONS

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses optimizing and extremizing nonlinear boundary value problems in lenticular antennas in oceanography, medicine, and communications. In the design of singlet microwave dielectric lenses in the electromagnetic spectrum and acoustic lenses for underwater sound applications in which wide angle scanning, or fixed off-axis operation, is required, it is frequently desired to achieve greater off-axis scan in one plane than in the other, wide angle azimuth performance usually being more necessary than elevation scan. The chapter presents the solution of the problem of design of such geometrically perfect nonspherical low F -number extremized bifocal lenses in three-space. It discusses computational procedures for the optimization of the design for best azimuth versus elevation scanning trade-off taking as fundamental assumptions that the index of refraction n 0 is greater than unity and that Snell's law holds.
Predicting genome terminus sequences of Bacillus cereus-group bacteriophage using next generation sequencing data.

Most tailed bacteriophages (phages) feature linear dsDNA genomes. Characterizing novel phages requires an understanding of complete genome sequences, including the definition of genome physical ends. We sequenced 48 Bacillus cereus phage isolates and analyzed Next-generation sequencing (NGS) data to resolve the genome configuration of these novel phages. Most assembled contigs featured reads that mapped to both contig ends and formed circularized contigs. Independent assemblies of 31 nearly identical I48-like Bacillus phage isolates allowed us to observe that the assembly programs tended to produce random cleavage on circularized contigs. However, currently available assemblers were not capable of reporting the underlying phage genome configuration from sequence data. To identify the genome configuration of sequenced phage in silico, a terminus prediction method was developed by means of ‘neighboring coverage ratios’ and ‘read edge frequencies’ from read alignment files. Termini were confirmed by primer walking and supported by phylogenetic inference of large DNA terminase protein sequences. The Terminus package using phage NGS data along with the contig circularity could efficiently identify the proximal positions of phage genome terminus. Complete phage genome sequences allow a proposed characterization of the potential packaging mechanisms and more precise genome annotation.
Leading the way: Motivating environmental action through perceived marketplace influence

Abstract This research explores the perceived marketplace influence (PMI) belief and its role in explaining behavior. Across three studies, we show PMI to be distinct from other efficacy-based constructs and a powerful predictor of pro-environmental and socially-motivated behavior. Specifically, consumers are motivated to act when they believe their behavior influences other marketplace actors. We develop a ten-item scale for PMI and display its predictive and incremental validity in explaining environmental behavior before showing its power to translate environmental concern into corresponding behavior. We then find that PMI predicts social environmentalism and environmental citizenship behaviors, and that these effects are attenuated by consumer skepticism of marketing. While complementing existing efficacy-related beliefs with its explicit marketplace focus, PMI provides an important tool for marketers operating in environmental and prosocial niches by allowing them to understand and target the consumers most likely to adopt their products or attempt to recruit others in environmentally-motivated efforts.
Abstract #2848: Small molecule inhibitors of JAK1/2 improve physiological and functional measures of cancer-associated cachexia

Cancer-associated cachexia (CAC) is a significant contributing factor to the morbidity and mortality of malignancy. Though poorly defined, CAC is broadly described as a significant unintended and undesirable weight loss often accompanied by fatigue, altered metabolism, and systemic inflammation. Here, we attempt to understand the role of inflammation in CAC and demonstrate that IL-6, amongst other cytokines, contributes to multiple aspects of cachexia. Furthermore, we show that pharmacological antagonism of inflammatory cytokine signaling - via inhibition of JAK1/2 - reduces aberrant JAK/STAT activity and dramatically improves body mass and physical performance in mouse models of CAC. We characterized CAC using 3 tumor models (Colon26, PC-3M, and A375.S2). Effects of tumors on body weight ranged from total inhibition of weight gain to \#8805;30% weight loss; muscle and fat were depleted with a maximum loss of ~90% of parametrial fat stores and ~50% of gastrocnemius muscle weight. These changes had a dramatic effect on physical performance as demonstrated by decrements in grip strength and locomotor activity approaching 50% and 90%, respectively. Splenomegaly was observed in the majority of models suggesting systemic inflammation may contribute to the cachectic state. We therefore performed an unbiased analysis of plasma samples from cachectic mice and identified a number of markedly elevated inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, many of which signal through the non-receptor tyrosine kinases JAK1/2 (e.g. IL-6, IL12, and IL17) or which are indirectly stimulated by such cytokines (e.g. IL-6 induced MCP-1). Moreover, administration physiological relevant levels of IL-6 was sufficient to activate JAK/STAT in muscle and result in reduced lean body mass and grip strength. Because of the reported and observed inflammatory components of CAC, we hypothesized that pharmacological inhibition of JAK1/2 may prevent or improve the cachectic phenotype. Using selective inhibitors (INCB16562 and INCB19408), we demonstrated that systemic inhibition of JAK1/2 reduces aberrant JAK/STAT signaling in muscle in the aforementioned models, minimizes splenomegaly and has a marked tissue salvaging effect on both fat and muscle resulting in striking functional improvements (~200%) in strength and activity. These effects were not associated with changes in food consumption or tumor growth. In summary, the data suggest that multiple JAK-activating cytokines are elevated in CAC and contribute to functional deficits associated with the condition. Moreover, we show that systemic inhibition of JAK1/2 can reduce inflammation, improve total and lean body mass, and enhance functional performance in multiple cachexia models. Clinical exploration of selective JAK inhibition is therefore warranted for the prevention or alleviation of CAC. Citation Information: In: Proc Am Assoc Cancer Res; 2009 Apr 18-22; Denver, CO. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; 2009. Abstract nr 2848.
cis-Platinum in gynecologic cancer: III. Toxicity

The toxicity of cis-dichlorodiammineplatinum was evaluated in 41 patients who were treated for squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix or epithelial carcinoma of the ovary, with a dosage schedule of 60 mg/m2 every 3 weeks. Ototoxicity occurred in 33.3% of the patients serially tested, and anemia occurred in 48.8%. Leukopenia occurred in 29.9% and thrombocytopenia in 2.2% of courses administered. Nephrotoxicity was seen in 61% of patients as determined by evaluation of blood urea nitrogen and in 70.7% by serum creatinine elevation. Urine dipstick protein and 24 hour urinary protein determinations were evaluated. Suggestions are made in regard to the use of these determinations as a guide to modification of dose and duration of therapy.
X-Rays for Non-Destructive Characterization of Materials Properties

X-rays found their first practical application, for radiography, almost immediately after their discovery by Roentgen in 1895. Crystal structure determination became possible in 1912 when Max von Laue derived the diffraction conditions for three-dimensional lattices. In 1914 C.G. Darwin published two papers, describing both the kinematical and the dynamical theory (1,2). The former is, of course, the basis for crystal structure determination. The need for the latter was rediscovered in the 1950’s, when very perfect crystals became available.
From Data to Knowledge: An Introduction to Biomedical Informatics

Abstract The field of Biomedical Informatics (BMI) is concerned with multimethod approaches to generating contextualized information and actionable knowledge from a variety of biological and healthcare-relevant data types. In doing so, BMI practitioners adopt and adapt a number of methods drawn from the computational, quantitative, and qualitative sciences. In this chapter, we provide an overview of such methods and a rationale for how they can be applied to address driving biological and clinical problems. Such use cases span a range from the biomolecular characterization of disease states to the comprehensive phenotyping of patients to the promotion of population health. In doing so, we hope to equip readers with the ability to critically understand and evaluate the use of multimethod approaches as are commonly encountered in the aforementioned application areas.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Programmed Death-Ligand 1 Expression in Primary and Metastatic Prostate Cancer

Antibodies targeting the programmed cell death protein 1/programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) interaction have shown clinical activity in multiple cancer types. PD-L1 protein expression is a clinically validated predictive biomarker of response for such therapies. Prior studies evaluating the expression of PD-L1 in primary prostate cancers have reported highly variable rates of PD-L1 positivity. In addition, limited data exist on PD-L1 expression in metastatic castrate-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). Here, we determined PD-L1 protein expression by immunohistochemistry using a validated PD-L1–specific antibody (SP263) in a large and representative cohort of primary prostate cancers and prostate cancer metastases. The study included 539 primary prostate cancers comprising 508 acinar adenocarcinomas, 24 prostatic duct adenocarcinomas, 7 small-cell carcinomas, and a total of 57 cases of mCRPC. PD-L1 positivity was low in primary acinar adenocarcinoma, with only 7.7% of cases showing detectable PD-L1 staining. Increased levels of PD-L1 expression were noted in 42.9% of small-cell carcinomas. In mCRPC, 31.6% of cases showed PD-L1–specific immunoreactivity. In conclusion, in this comprehensive evaluation of PD-L1 expression in prostate cancer, PD-L1 expression is rare in primary prostate cancers, but increased rates of PD-L1 positivity were observed in mCRPC. These results will be important for the future clinical development of programmed cell death protein 1/PD-L1–targeting therapies in prostate cancer.
More friends, more interactions? The association between network size and interactions on Facebook

With social networking sites (SNS) such as Facebook, individuals have immediate access to hundreds of people from different aspects of their lives. On one hand, this may increase the number of people that individuals can interact with directly because communication now requires less effort. On the other hand, individuals may still only interact with a small portion of their networks because humans have limited time and resources. Mayhew and Levinger (1976) proposed that because of time and resource constraints, individuals in larger networks spend, on average, less time with each contact. Thus, while people may have opportunities through Facebook to interact with more people, they may not actually do so. Using logging software, we explored the percentage of their Facebook network that individuals sent direct messages to and whether individuals with larger networks sent direct messages to a smaller percentage of their networks. We found that in line with Mayhew and Levinger’s claim, users messaged a very small percentage of their networks (less than two percent) and that users with larger friend networks sent messages to a smaller percentage of their friend networks. This suggests that while Facebook may enable users to connect with more people than ever before, there are still limits to the number of ties with whom individuals actively interact.
Nanostructured Electrodes for High-Performing Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

Solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) is an all-solid-state ceramic electrochemical device for converting chemical energy (fuels) to electricity with high energy efficiency and ultralow harmful emissions. These classes of FCs have received significant attention by researchers as a potential replacement for petroleum-based energy devices. In order to broaden the material selection and increase material system durability, the development of intermediate- or low-temperature SOFC is critical to making their commercialization viable. Therefore, the SOFC performance at lowered operating temperatures must be improved by the innovation of materials and microstructures. The nanostructure engineering of electrodes has demonstrated their improved catalytic performance due to minimization of the electrode polarization resistances for oxygen reduction reaction and fuel oxidation reaction at the nanoscale compared to the traditional electrode design. The synthesis technique strategy was based on wet chemistry catalyst infiltration into electrode structure and has been demonstrated improvements in power density and electrode stability. In this chapter, the technical process of ion infiltration method is discussed; and the different routes in fabricating nanostructured electrodes to achieve high-performing SOFC in hydrogen and hydrocarbon fuels are reviewed. The electrode parameters that lead to improvement of SOFC performance are also summarized. By fabricating electrodes at the nanoscale, a significant increase in specific area was obtained that can provide greater active catalysis sites for electrode reactions, as well as a decrease in the activation polarization resistance which collectively led to improved SOFC performance.
Induction of gut proteasome activity in hemorrhagic shock and its recovery by treatment with diphenyldihaloketones CLEFMA and EF24.

Ischemic injury to the gut is a trigger for the systemic inflammatory response and multiple organ failure in trauma and hemorrhagic shock. We show for the first time, to our knowledge, that hemorrh...
EFFECTS OF ACIDIC DEPOSITION ON SOIL INVERTEBRATES AND MICROORGANISMS

The first observations of the detrimental effects of atmospheric pollution, including acidic deposition, on plants and other organisms were made in Europe more than 300 yr ago. However, scientific research into these effects did not begin until 1852, when Robert Smith, an English chemist, described the rain chemistry in the vicinity of Manchester, England. This study and other work that contributed to our understanding of the historical development of scientific knowledge and public concern over acidifying compounds in precipitation have been reviewed by Cowling (1982).
Chapter III - The Structure and Mechanism of Action of Proteolytic Enzymes

Publisher Summary The study of the enzyme-catalyzed hydrolysis f proteins has played an important role in its application to the problem of protein structure and its relationship to the elucidation of the detailed catalytic mechanism of such reactions. Proteases can be distinguished in the following groups: (1) the serine proteases, which contain a serine residue that is reactive toward diisopropylphosphofluoridate; (2) the thiol proteases, which depend upon the presence in the protein of the reduced form of a specific cysteine residue; (3) the metalloproteinases, which require the presence of specific metal ions for catalytic activity; and (4) the acid proteases, which are characterized by pH optima near pH 1-3. Proteolytic enzymes pose a problem because most of them have no non-amino acid prosthetic group. The interaction with other molecular species, including the specific reactions that result in catalysis, must involve special and unique group conformations of the side-chains of component amino acids. The location of specific amino acid residues within that area of the protein involved in enzyme-substrate interactions, the active center, or their direct implication in the bond-changing sequence of the catalytic mechanism is one of the major goals of the investigations.
Coordinate regulation of cell cycle and apoptosis during myogenesis

During myogenesis, precursor cells irreversibly withdraw from the cell cycle as they differentiate into mature myotubes. The state of myocyte differentiation also influences the propensity of these cells to undergo apoptosis. Proliferative precursor cells are far more susceptible to apoptotic cell death than are terminally differentiated myotubes. The upregulation of the cdk inhibitor p21 and the dephosphorylation of pRb are critical regulatory events that establish both the post-mitotic and apoptosis-resistant states. The coordinate regulation of cell proliferation and death provides the organism with a mechanism to control the deposition of muscle mass during embryonic development.
Data standard ≠ data quality.

The relationship between data quality and data standards has not been clearly articulated. While some directly state that data standards increase data quality, others claim the opposite. Depending on the type of data standard and the aspects of data quality considered, both arguments may in fact be correct. We deconstruct a typology of data standards and apply a dimensional definition of data quality to clearly articulate the relationship between the two, providing a framework for data quality planning.
Potential new targets for drug development in severe asthma.

In recent years there has been increasing recognition of varying asthma phenotypes that impact treatment response. This has led to the development of biological therapies targeting specific immune cells and cytokines in the inflammatory cascade. Currently, there are two primary asthma phenotypes, Type 2 hi and Type 2 lo, which are defined by eosinophilic and neutrophilic/pauci- granulocytic pattern of inflammation respectively. Most biologics focus on Type 2 hi asthma, including all four biologics approved for treatment of uncontrolled asthma in the United States — omalizumab, mepolizumab, reslizumab, and benralizumab. Potential new targets for drug development are being investigated, such as IL-13, IL-4α receptor, CRTH2, TSLP, IL-25, IL-13, IL-17A receptor, and CXCR2/IL-8. This review will discuss the role of these molecules on the inflammatory response in uncontrolled asthma and the emerging biologics that address them. Through the delineation of distinct immunological mechanisms in severe asthma, targeted biologics are promising new therapies that have the potential to improve asthma control and quality of life.
Biomarkers Associated with Lymphedema and Fibrosis in Patients with Cancer of the Head and Neck

Abstract Background: This study examined interrelationships of selected interleukins (ILs), tumor growth factors, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and C-reactive protein, interferon-gamma (IFN-γ),...
Stenting for Benign and Malignant Biliary Strictures

Benign and malignant biliary strictures are common indications for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. Diagnosis involves high-quality cross-sectional imaging and cholangiography with various endoscopic sampling techniques. Treatment options include placement of plastic biliary stents and self-expanding metal stents, which differ in patency duration and cost effectiveness. Whether the etiology is benign or malignant, a multidisciplinary strategy should be implemented. This article will discuss general principles of biliary stenting in both benign and malignant conditions.
Alexa Everywhere: AI for Daily Convenience

The computing industry has been on an inexorable march toward simplifying human-computer interaction, and earlier this decade Amazon bet big on combining voice technology and artificial intelligence. In 2014, with the introduction of Echo and Alexa, Amazon created an entirely new technology category with an AI-first strategy and vision. Since then, Alexa has captured the imagination of customers across the globe, and the company has accelerated the pace of AI research and innovation in support of its promise to improve Alexa every day. In this presentation Rohit Prasad, Vice President and Head Scientist of Amazon Alexa, shares his insights into how recent scientific innovations are advancing Alexa.
Racial disparities in U.S. maternal influenza vaccine uptake: Results from analysis of Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) data, 2012-2015.

Abstract Background Pregnant women are at increased risk of hospitalization, serious complications, poor pregnancy outcomes, and mortality from influenza. Prior research suggests that there are racial/ethnic disparities in vaccination coverage and that a healthcare provider vaccination recommendation is associated with significantly higher vaccine uptake than without such a recommendation. The purpose of this study is to examine racial/ethnic disparities in healthcare providers’ recommendations for pregnant women to receive the influenza vaccine and in vaccine uptake. Methods This cross-sectional population-based study analyzed data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) during 2012–2015 (n = 130161). Both healthcare provider recommendation and vaccine uptake were assessed dichotomously. Logistic regression was conducted to ascertain adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals, controlling for maternal age, marital status, education, prenatal care utilization, and smoking status. Results Influenza vaccine uptake during pregnancy ranged from 39.1% among non-Hispanic (NH) Black women to 55.4% among NH Asian women. In the adjusted analysis, NH Black and NH Asian women had 19% (95% CI 0.75–0.86) and 34% (95% CI 0.61–0.72) decreased odds of receiving a provider recommendation for influenza vaccine during pregnancy, respectively, compared to NH White women. For influenza vaccine uptake, NH Black women were 30% less likely (95% CI 0.65–0.74) to receive influenza vaccine during pregnancy compared to NH White women. Conclusions Our findings indicate that there are racial/ethnic disparities in healthcare provider recommendation and influenza vaccine uptake among pregnant women in the United States. Targeted efforts toward providers and interventions focusing on pregnant women may be warranted to reduce the disparity.
Update on lumbar stenosis and degenerative scoliosis: Deformity considerations when treating lumbar stenosis

Abstract Lumbar stenosis is often treated without consideration of the overall spinal alignment. However, surgery for stenosis in the presence of deformity should consider both pathologies. Attention to patient specific alignment parameters and neurologic symptoms should be a component of the preoperative plan for all lumbar spine surgeries. The ideal spinal alignment is still elusive, so a majority of research on spinal deformity in the past 10 years has focused on identifying target parameters of spinal balance to improve patient satisfaction, quality of life outcomes, and decrease failure rates. Here, the most current concepts in the application of balance and alignment in the treatment of degenerative scoliosis and lumbar spinal stenosis will be discussed.
Upcycling aromatic polymers through C–H fluoroalkylation

The unique properties imparted by planar, rigid aromatic rings in synthetic polymers make these macromolecules useful in a range of applications, including disposable packaging, aerospace materials, flexible electronics, separation membranes, and engineering thermoplastics. The thermal and chemical stability of aromatic polymers, however, makes it difficult to alter their bulk and/or surface properties and results in challenges during recycling. In response, we report a platform approach for the C–H functionalization of aromatic polymers by taking advantage of their innate reactivity with electrophilic radical intermediates. The method uses mild reaction conditions to photocatalytically generate electrophilic fluoroalkyl radicals for the functionalization of an array of commercially relevant polyaromatic substrates, including post-industrial and post-consumer plastic waste, without altering their otherwise attractive thermomechanical properties. The density of fluorination, and thus the material properties, is tuned by either increasing the reagent concentration or incorporating longer perfluoroalkyl species. Additionally, the installation of versatile chemical functionality to aromatic polymers is demonstrated through the addition of a bromodifluoromethyl group, which acts as an initiator for atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) grafting of vinyl polymers. The method described herein imparts new and versatile chemical functionality to aromatic polymers, enabling an efficient approach to diversify the properties of these otherwise recalcitrant commodity plastics and demonstrating a viable pathway to upcycle post-consumer plastic waste.
Transient grating measurements at ultralow probe power

We report on an ultralow probe-power transient grating apparatus with probing based on a laser diode pulser, a digital delay generator, and a data acquisition card. The electronic triggering of the diode pulser permits stroboscopic measurement of arbitrarily slow laser-induced dynamics using pulses of probe light with average power $ {\sim} 5 \,\, {\rm nW} $∼5nW, significantly lower than what is currently used by continuous wave measurement. The proposed method also allows for flexibility in selection of the probe wavelength limited only by availability of low threshold current laser diodes. Examples of impulsive stimulated thermal scattering measurements are presented on liquid isopropanol, single crystal solid $ {{\rm CrCl}_3} $CrCl3, and a thin film of Cu vapor deposited on a Si substrate, demonstrating the flexibility of the technique.