cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Interaction of Top Management Group, Stakeholder, and Situational Factors on Certain Corporate Reputation Management Activities*

abstract This study examines when a firm's members are most likely to promote and defend its reputation. Building on past research in impression management theory and the upper-echelons perspective, I argue that firms facing increased visibility among different stakeholder groups will increase corporate reputation management activities towards those groups and decrease activities towards other groups. I further argue that top management group characteristics will moderate these relationships, suggesting that certain top management groups are more attuned to the situational needs of reputation management. A set of hypotheses are tested using pooled cross-sectional time-series data on a set of Fortune 500 companies. Results indicate that firms generally directed reputation management activities towards their more visible stakeholders. However, the type and extent of reputation management behaviour varied. Specifically, for firms whose top management groups were more highly educated or output oriented, highly visible situations with the media were more likely to be associated with a higher use of press releases. Moreover, those same firms devoted more resources to mass media advertising under situations of high consumer visibility compared to firms whose top management groups were less educated or throughput oriented.
Prediction and Evaluation of Urine and Urinary Nitrogen and Mineral Excretion from Dairy Cattle

Urine excretion is a substantial factor in the amount of manure that needs to be managed, and urinary N can contribute to ammonia volatilization. Development and validation of prediction equations focusing on dietary factors to decrease urine and urinary nutrient excretion will provide information for managing urine and feces separately or for other future technologies. The objective of this study was to develop equations for prediction of urine excretion and excretion of urinary N, Na, and K and to evaluate both new and previously published prediction equations for estimation of urine and urinary nutrient excretion from lactating dairy cows. Data sets from metabolism studies conducted at Washington State University were compiled and evaluated for excretion of minerals. Urine excretion averaged 24.1 kg/d and urinary nitrogen excretion ranged from 63 to 499 g/d in the calibration data set. Regression equations were developed to predict urine excretion, urinary N excretion, and urinary Na and K excretion. Predictors used in the regression equations included milk yield, body weight, dietary crude protein percentage, milk urea nitrogen, and nutrient intakes. Previously published prediction equations were evaluated using data sets from Washington State University and the University of Wisconsin. Mean and linear biases were evaluated by determining the regression of residuals on predicted values. Evaluation and validation of prediction equations are important to develop equations that will more accurately estimate urine and urinary nitrogen excretion from lactating dairy cows.
Average Error Rate of Markov Channel

In a recent paper, P. McManamon derived the average bit error rate for the simple partitioned Markov channel. This correspondence derives the same result by a simpler and more straightforward way.
Unintended Benefits: The Potential Economic Impact Of Addressing Risk Factors To Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease

Certain chronic conditions appear to be modifiable risk factors of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. To understand the potential health and economic impacts of addressing those risk factors, we used data on a Medicare cohort to simulate four scenarios: a 10 percent reduction in the prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, respectively, and a 10 percent reduction in body mass index among beneficiaries who were overweight or obese. Our simulation demonstrated that reducing the prevalence of these conditions may yield "unintended benefits" by lowering the risk, delaying the onset, reducing the duration, and lowering the costs of dementia. More research is needed to clarify the exact relationship between various other chronic diseases and dementia. However, our findings highlight potential health gains and savings opportunities stemming from the better management of other conditions associated with dementia.
Behavioral Ecology of Coyotes: Social Organization, Rearing Patterns, Space Use, and Resource Defense

Two groups of coyotes in which genealogical relationships were known were studied in the Grand Teton National Park, outside of Jackson, Wyoming, U.S.A., from 1977–1982. One group, a pack consisting of parents and some non-dispersing and non-breeding offspring, defended a territory and the food (mainly elk carrion) contained within it, especially during winter, and also had helpers at den sites (5 of 6 were males). The other group, a mated resident pair, all of whose young dispersed during the first year of life, did not defend a territory and never had helpers at dens. Delayed dispersal and retention of some offspring as helpers was related to the presence of an abundant, clumped, and defendable winter food resource. Dispersing yearlings suffered higher mortality than did non-dispersing individuals. Litter size was the same for the pack and resident pair; litter size was not significantly correlated with number of adults in the group or with the number or percentage of pups that survived to 5–6 months of age. The presence of pack helpers was not significantly correlated with pup survival, although there was a positive correlation (rs = +0.37) between the number of adults attending a den(s) and pup survival. Helpers rarely fed pups and their presence had no appreciable effect on juvenile weight. Helpers partook in den-sitting (pup-guarding), but they did not reduce the amount of time that parents spent at den sites. Helpers also actively initiated and took part in territorial and food defense. The proportion of times that pack members initiated defense was inversely related to intruder density (r = –0.94).
Lacewings and Scale Insects: A Review of Predator/Prey Associations Between the Neuropterida and Coccoidea (Insecta: Neuroptera, Raphidioptera, Hemiptera)

Information on 263 Neuropterida/Coccoidea associations with additional detailed data on the most commonly encountered taxa is presented. Included for each entry, where applicable, is the predator, Coccoidea prey, validation source, prey plant host, and biogeographic origin.
Information Processing and Distribution under (Near) Monopolistic Conditions

Information scientists have found it extremely difficult to define precisely, either in a theoretical way or an operational way, the concept of information. Much progress has been made in this direction already — witness the large segment of literature devoted to this endeavor and the discussions in the Institute. Recognizing this difficulty in information science, others have and are continuing to investigate the “value of information” as an alternative to provide yet another stone in the foundation of the subject. Procedures and criteria for determining the value of information would be exceedingly valuable in establishing charges for value received, justifying the existence of an information system, developing budgets, and more generally, establishing accountability, credibility and economic viability in the field of information science.
Effects of dietary fiber from wheat, corn, and soy hull bran on excretion of fecal bile acids in humans

Effects of dietary fiber on bile acid excretion and fecal bile acid concentration have been studied for seven subjects fed 26 g of either soft white wheat bran, corn bran, soybean hulls, or hard red spring wheat bran. Results indicate that even in a controlled study using a metabolic word, individual subject variation has a major impact on fecal bile acid excretion. This observation has not been fully appreciated in previous human studies. No significant change in the composition of fecal bile acids could be associated with the decrease in serum lipid levels previously reported. A method for the isolation and quantitation of fecal bile acids is described which does not require purification by thin-layer chromatography. A preliminary study of lyophilized fecal samples stored at -10 to -30 degrees C showed very little or no change in bile acid content. Samples stored at room temperatures for 11 months showed a substantial reduction in bile acid content.
The superconducting properties of YBa2(Cu1−xMx)3O7 for M=Zn and Ni

Transverse and zero-field μSR measurements were made on YBa2(Cu1−xNix)3O7−y withx=0.1 and 0.2, and YBa2(Cu1−xZn x )3O7−y withx=0.03, 0.06, 0.1, and 0.16, wherey≈0.1. Since doping may lead to magnetic ordering this was searched for with both zero and transverse field μSR, but no evidence was found over the temperature range studied: 10–100 K. However, depolarization rates as functions of temperature were obtained, and the low temperature values of these are σ=3.2 μs−1.1.6μs−1, and 1 μs−1 forx=0.01, and 0.2 Ni, respectively, and σ=0.8 μs−1, 0.75 μs−1, 0.65 μs−1, and 0.4 μs−1 forx=0.03, 0.06, 0.1, and 0.16 Zn, respectively. Estimates for the effect of decreasing electron concentration for Zn are made, but these alone do not account for the drop in σ. Estimates for the effect of scattering on λ and hence σ are made. The reduction in σ for Ni dopant is in surprisingly good agreement with these estimates. For Zn the order of magnitude is correct, but the relative lack of further change in σ after the effect of the first 0.03 addition seems to imply a saturation of the effect of scattering.
Does COMT val158met affect behavioral phenotypes: yes, no, maybe?

The COMT gene functional polymorphism val158met is one of the most intensively studied variants in psychiatric genetics. Due to small effect size and various methodological issues, its role in various psychiatric disorders and behavioral traits has still not been unequivocally established. In this issue of Neuropsychopharmacology, several studies are presented supporting a role for COMT as a factor in cocaine addiction, brain reward activation, response to tolcapone, distractibility in ADHD, and fMRI bold response. The studies make important contributions to the growing literature that aim to establish an effect of this functional variant on behavioral phenotypes and treatment response.
Experimental arteriovenous malformations modeling in laboratory sheep versus swine.

In a recent article in the AJNR [(1)][1], Qian et al presented an interesting attempt at creating an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) model in sheep, a laboratory animal that had not been used previously for this purpose. The authors are to be congratulated on their commendable intentions and
Married women's justification of intimate partner violence in Bangladesh: examining community norm and individual-level risk factors

One-third of the women worldwide experience intimate partner violence (IPV) that increases their vulnerability to both short- and long-term physical, sexual, reproductive, and mental health problems. Surprisingly, IPV is justified by many women globally. Although the IPV literature to date is mostly focused on risk factors associated with actual occurrences, little is known on attitudinal acceptance of such violence. Also, despite the growing scholarship of community influence and health link, IPV research has relatively overlooked the effects of norms at the community level. Using a representative national sample of 13,611 married women in Bangladesh, this study examined the association of community attitudes and women's individual attitudes toward wife beating. The results revealed that women living in communities with permissive attitudes toward wife beating were more likely to justify husbands' beating (OR = 4.5). Women married at a younger age, who had less than primary-level education, lived in households categorized as poor or middle class, and did not consume media appeared to be at higher risk for justifying wife beating. This research adds to a growing research body on community influences on health by examining IPV attitudes and community norms link. Language: en
Genotyping of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in TNF-α Promoter Region in Chinese Population Using Taqman MGB Probes

[Objective] To investigate the polymorphisms in the promoter region of the tumour necrosis factor α(TNF-α)gene from Chinese polulation.[Methods] Twenty Han healthy individuals in Shenzhen were selected randomly.The promoter region of the TNF-α gene in these 20 individuals from position-1389 nt to +125 nt was amplified by polymerase chain reaction(PCR)with two primer pairs.The PCR products were sequenced to scan the single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs).The real-time PCR genotyping at-857 nt(C/T)position was established using Taqman minor groove binding(MGB)probes.Total 1108 samples from five Chinese populations,the Han,Zhuang,Buyi,Shui and Miao tribe groups were genotyped at-857 position using this method.[Results] Six SNPs,-885(A/G),-863(C/A),-646(G/A),-648(G/A),-568(G/C),and-857(C/T),were identified in the promoter region(-1322 nt～+67 nt).Among these the-646 nt(G→A)SNP was a new one.Although the bases at-885,-648,and-568 positions were different from the bases in Genebank sequence,the twenty individuals sequenced had the same genotypes at these three sites.The genotype frequencies of the SNP at site-857 nt(C/T)in Chinese population were 0.79,0.19,and 0.02 for CC,CT,and TT,and there no difference among the five Chinese populations,the Han,Zhuang,Buyi,Shui and Miao tribe groups.The frequency of-857T allele in Chinese population was 0.116,similar to that reported in Korean,but lower than that in Japanese.[Conclusion] The SNPs in the promoter region of TNF-α gene from Chinese population may be conserved.The real-time PCR technology for SNPs genotyping using Taqman MGB probes is simple,rapid,accurate,and automated,and will provide a useful tool for large-scale SNP association studies.
Analysis of 122 Unselected Impotent Men Subjected to Multidisciplinary Evaluation

AbstractErectile impotence is not a simple problem and it is important to recognize that the presence of a possible organic cause does not rule out emotional difficulties or sexual maladjustment. Behavioral therapy and surgery have an important role in treating this symptom. By careful pre-treatment evaluation the most appropriate therapy can be selected. It has been our general rule that when neither clear organic nor psychogenic problems lie at the root of the difficulty, a trial of behavioral therapy is the most appropriate procedure. If no success is achieved after an adequate trial of therapy re-evaluation and recommendation for a prosthetic implant can be made.
Welding of unique and advanced alloys for space and high-temperature applications: welding and weldability of iridium and platinum alloys†

In the last five decades, significant advances have been made in developing alloys for space power systems for spacecraft that travel long distances to various planets. The spacecraft are powered by radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs). The fuel element in RTGs is plutonia. For safety and containment of the radioactive fuel element, the heat source is encapsulated in iridium or platinum alloys. Ir and Pt alloys are the alloys of choice for encapsulating radioisotope fuel pellets. Ir and Pt alloys were chosen because of their high-temperature properties and compatibility with the oxide fuel element and the graphite impact shells. This review addresses the alloy design and welding and weldability of Ir and Pt alloys for use in RTGs.
Endogenous Debt Maturity: Liquidity Risk vs. Default Risk

We study the endogenous determination of corporate debt maturity in a setting with default risk. We assume that firms must access the bond market and they issue debt with a flexible structure (coupon, face value, and maturity). Initially, the firm is in a low growth/illiquid state that requires debt refinancing if it matures. Since lenders do not refinance projects with positive but small net present value, firms may be forced to default in the first phase. We call this liquidity risk. The technology is such that earnings can switch to a higher (but riskier) level. In this second phase firms have access to the equity market but they may default if this is the best option. We call this strategic default risk. In the model optimal maturity balances these two risks. We show that firms with poor prospects and firms in more unstable industries will choose shorter maturities even if it is feasible to issue longer debt. The model also offers predictions on how asset maturity, asset salability, and leverage influence maturity. Even though our model is extremely stylized we find that the predictions are roughly consistent with the evidence. Moreover, it offers some insights into the factors that determine the structure of the debt.
Something besides monotheism: Sociotheological boundary work among the spiritual, but not religious

Abstract The expression “spiritual, but not religious” (SBNR) has gained considerable traction among sociologists of religion and culture, media outlets, and the broader public in recent years. Though the expression itself has achieved wide appeal, few studies have explored what SBNRs believe about God, religion, or spirituality. This paper uses survey data from Wave IV of the Baylor Religion Survey (2014) and draws from the theory of “cultural omnivorousness” to show that SBNRs have significant sociotheological differences when compared to those who are both religious and spiritual (RAS). The expression “spiritual, but not religious” is more than a manifestation of religious deinstitutionalization or “believing without belonging.” Rather, being “spiritual, but not religious” involves sociotheological boundary work that distinguishes SBNRs from traditional monotheists. When compared to RAS respondents, SBNRs are more likely to view God as a higher power or cosmic force instead of a personal being and are more likely to adopt an individualistic ethic as opposed to finding moral authority in God or Scripture. By examining the historical context and sociotheological characteristics of SBNRs, this paper locates a boundary between SBNRs and RAS monotheists and offers theoretical reasons why SBNRs engage in sociotheological boundary work.
Differential elemental uptake in three pseudo-metallophyte C4 grasses in situ in the eastern USA

Elemental uptake in serpentine floras in eastern North America is largely unknown. The objective of this study was to determine major and trace element concentrations in soil and leaves of three native pseudo-metallophyte C4 grasses in situ at five sites with three very different soil types, including three serpentine sites, in eastern USA. Pseudo-total and extractible concentrations of 15 elements were measured and correlated from the soils and leaves of three species at the five sites. Element concentrations in soils of pseudo-metallophytes varied up to five orders of magnitude. Soils from metalliferous sites exhibited higher concentrations of their characteristic elements than non-metalliferous. In metallicolous populations, elemental concentrations depended on the element. Concentrations of major elements (Ca, Mg, K) in leaves were lower than typical toxicity thresholds, whereas concentrations of Zn were higher. In grasses, species can maintain relatively low metal concentrations in their leaves even when soil concentrations are richer. However, in highly Zn-contaminated soil, we found evidence of a threshold concentration above which Zn uptake increases drastically. Finally, absence of main characteristics of serpentine soil at one site indicated the importance of soil survey and restoration to maintain serpentinophytes communities and avoid soil encroachment.
The Cholesterol Dilemma: Treating the Risk or Treating to LDL-C Goal?

Statins will long remain the cornerstone of treatment because of their proven benefits and cost-effectiveness, especially in the four statin benefit groups. However, emerging RCT evidence shows that the degree of LDL-C lowering may be more important than the drug used to achieve it.
Common pitfalls in preclinical cancer target validation

An alarming number of papers from laboratories nominating new cancer drug targets contain findings that cannot be reproduced by others or are simply not robust enough to justify drug discovery efforts. This problem probably has many causes, including an underappreciation of the danger of being misled by off-target effects when using pharmacological or genetic perturbants in complex biological assays. This danger is particularly acute when, as is often the case in cancer pharmacology, the biological phenotype being measured is a 'down' readout (such as decreased proliferation, decreased viability or decreased tumour growth) that could simply reflect a nonspecific loss of cellular fitness. These problems are compounded by multiple hypothesis testing, such as when candidate targets emerge from high-throughput screens that interrogate multiple targets in parallel, and by a publication and promotion system that preferentially rewards positive findings. In this Perspective, I outline some of the common pitfalls in preclinical cancer target identification and some potential approaches to mitigate them.
Molten salt battery advances

In recent years, development of Li-alloy/metal sulfide cells with molten-salt electrolyte for high performance applications has concentrated on improvement of the electrode performance and cell capacity stability. New electrochemistries and porous electrode compositions have provided a strong foundation for further development of Li-alloy/dense upper-plateau (U.P.) FeS/sub 2/ (1.75 V) cells, as well as Li-alloy/FeS (1.32V) cells. (U.P. FeS/sub 2/ refers to the discharge reaction of FeS/sub 2/ to Li/sub 2/FeS/sub 2/.) A lithium-limited FeS cell has demonstrated 100 Wh/kg at a 3-h rate and 100 W/kg at 80% depth of discharge (DOD), while a dense U.P. FeS/sub 2/ cell is now capable of 175 Wh/kg at a 4-h rate and 200 W/kg at 80% DOD. Both types have demonstrated stable cycle life of greater than 400 cycles, with 1000 cycle-life expectancy. Earlier FeS/sub 2/ cells suffered from an appreciable ((0.1 to 0.25%/cycle) cell capacity decline rate, which has been eliminated by recent innovations. A new molten-salt electrolyte, LiCl-LiBr-KBr (m.p. 310/sup 0/C), improved performance and allowed a lower cell operating temperature of 400/sup 0/C, from 425 to 450/sup 0/C for earlier cells. Cell design flexibility, along with the high conductivity electrolyte and high energy density electrodes, offers a broad range ofmore » capability. A bipolar design with U.P. FeS/sub 2/ electrodes is projected to provide specific energy of 200 Wh/kg and specific power up to 5 kW/kg. Preliminary tests with a new cell design for reduced materials costs showed that the Li-Al/U.P. FeS/sub 2/ couple was capable of high specific energy in a rod-electrode configuration.« less
Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards: The Interpretation and Application of the New York Convention by National Courts

This General Report provides an analytical overview of critical issues concerning the interpretation and application – in forty-four jurisdictions – of the United Nations Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards, commonly known as the New York Convention. The Chapter surveys and synthesizes national responses to a sample of questions on major Convention topics: implementation of the Convention, enforcement of agreements to arbitrate, grounds for refusal of recognition and enforcement under the Convention, and procedural issues in recognizing and enforcing foreign awards. This report concludes with an assessment of experiences in the implementation of the Convention across jurisdictions.
Magnetic Resonance Contrast Agents for Neuroradiology: Current Status

The goal of this chapter is to focus on the current status of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents in clinical use in neuro-oncology. These are the low-molecular-weight (600–800 Da) gadolinium complexes that have been used on a daily basis in neuroradiological exams for over two decades. We briefly review the relaxation properties, biodistribution, safety aspects, and established clinical and research applications associated with the use of the MRI contrast agents in neuroradiology.
Distributor intermediation in the farm to food service value chain

Short food supply chains, such as those of fruit and vegetable farmers delivering fresh product directly to restaurants, promise potentially higher returns to primary producers by avoiding the expense of intermediary distributors. Direct farm-to-chef supply chains also present a lower barrier to entry for small and beginning farmers, who are often scaled-out of the restaurant market by the volume requirements of food service distributors. High transactions costs for direct exchange, however, impede growth in this type of market channel. This From the Field paper describes an ongoing initiative by a regional food service distributor to play an active and collaborative role in the farm to food service supply chain, acting as a value chain partner to identify produce items desired by chefs, supply this market intelligence to growers and to garner commitments from farmers to grow and chefs to buy these products in upcoming seasons. By the eighth month of the effort, the distributor had assigned one of its produce buyers to act as a local specialist, working directly with chefs and local growers; and had initiated a series of mini local food shows to provide chefs and growers opportunities for face-to-face communication. The ultimate objective—to garner product-specific commitments from chefs and from growers—remains a work in progress.
Progression free survival in patients with castrate resistant metastatic prostate cancer: Does sequence matter?

356Background: Approval of multiple therapeutic agents for castrate resistant prostate cancer (CPRPC) has improved survival and also quality of life. However, how to optimize sequencing is still an ongoing challenge for most clinicians. Methods: A retrospective chart review of patients treated with FDA approved regimens for castrate resistant prostate cancer from 2002 to 2017 at Mayo Clinical Florida was completed. Data on progression free survival of the various treatment sequences including abiraterone, docetaxel, and enzalutamide were reviewed. Results: One hundred patients were included in the study. Those on clinical trial were excluded. All patients were on LHRH agonist /antagonist and were continued while on the subsequent treatments. The first line therapy progression free survival (PFS) was 245 days with abiraterone acetate (AA), 307 days with enzalutamide (E) and docetaxel 285 days, respectively. The second line therapy PFS was 201 days with AA and 166 days with E. When AA was given after E PFS ...
A Look Through Time: Historical Analysis of Obstetrics and Gynecology Texts Highlights Changes in Medicine.

OBJECTIVE Our objective was to analyze systematically the preface and foreword of each edition of Williams Obstetrics and Te Linde's Operative Gynecology to gain insight into historical changes in medicine. METHODS The preface and foreword from 24 editions of Williams Obstetrics and 11 editions of Te Linde's Operative Gynecology were obtained. Documents were assessed for the inclusion of predefined key words or topics, including sex-specific pronoun usage, insurance, fertility regulation, government regulation/laws, documentation burden, malpractice, race, medicine as "art" or medicine as "science," and others. Data were extracted and analyzed using Microsoft Excel. RESULTS Changing pronoun usage was evident across both texts. From 1941 through 1950, physicians were referred to as male 19 times and as female once. The ratio of male-to-female pronoun usage equalized in the 1990s. Medicine increasingly was referred to as a science rather than as an art within the last 2 decades. From the 1970s onward, emerging physician concerns, including malpractice, documentation burden, regulation, and insurance, were mentioned increasingly. The first mention of governmental regulation and evidence-based medicine occurred in the 21st century. Since 1903, race was never mentioned and "change" and "improvement" were cited almost universally. CONCLUSIONS The increase in female pronoun usage reflects the expanding role of women in medicine. Another trend noted relates to increasing external influence on and regulation of our profession. Previously less important concerns such as documentation burden have emerged in the last 2 decades.
Patent foramen ovale and cryptogenic stroke: diagnosis and updates in secondary stroke prevention

The patent foramen ovale (PFO), given its high prevalence in the general population and especially in patients with cryptogenic stroke, has long generated investigation and debate on its propensity for stroke by paradoxical embolism and its management for stroke prevention. The pendulum has swung for percutaneous PFO closure for secondary stroke prevention in cryptogenic stroke. Based on a review of current evidence, the benefit from PFO closure relies on careful patient selection: those under the age of 60 years with few to no vascular risk factors and embolic-appearing stroke deemed cryptogenic after thorough evaluation. As these data look towards influencing guideline statements and device approvals in the future, patient selection remains the crucial ingredient for clinical decision making and future trials.
Relationship of pretreatment lymphoblast proliferative activity and prognosis in 97 children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia

We have analyzed the pretreatment 3H-thymidine labeling indices in blood and marrow blast cells from 97 children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and circulating blasts. The median marrow labeling index (LI) was 6.2% (range 0.8%--32.7%) and the median blood LI, 3.2% (range 0.3%--20%). Blood LI was significantly correlated with leukocyte count and rosette-forming (E+) lymphoblasts but not with central nervous system leukemia or thymic mass at diagnosis. Marrow LI was related to E+ blasts only. In children with E+ leukemia, both blood and marrow LIs were significantly higher than values for other ALL subtypes (p less than 0.01) excluding undifferentiated ALL, which was characterized by an increased blood LI. Eighteen patients had a blood LI that either equaled or exceeded the marrow LI; apart from age, the clinical features, blast phenotypes, and treatment responses of this group were similar to those of patients with blood LI less than marrow LI. Among 51 patients assessed for treatment response, the estimated median length of remission was significantly shorter for those with a blood LI greater than 4% (p = 0.002) or a marrow LI greater than 6% (p = 0.011). By Cox-regression analysis, the pretreatment proliferative activity of blood and marrow blasts, unlike other initial features studied, added significant prognostic information to leukocyte count in these patients with circulating blasts. The findings provide a cogent explanation for the differential clinical responsiveness of commonly recognized ALL subclasses.
Culture from the Perspective of Dual Inheritance

This chapter presents a brief outline of the version of Dual Inheritance Theory developed at greater length in the author’s 2015 book, Mixed Messages: Cultural and Genetic Inheritance in the Constitution of Human Society. Accordingly, that which distinguishes humans from other social animals is a second form of trans-generational information transmission besides the genetic one, namely culture as it exists as symbolic codes external to the organisms who compose the society. While the genetic channel of inheritance is determined by the principles of inclusive fitness and reciprocal altruism, which limit the capacity of most or possibly all other animals to form large and complex societies, the human symbolic channel serves to complement and also to override the selfishness inherent in the genetic program and to create rules for marital exchange that allow identifications to go beyond closely related others, enabling individuals to affiliate with unrelated others in a prosocial way. Cultural symbolic codes thus allow human societies to create a generalized public arena, which is distinctive of our species. Some ethnographic examples of this are provided. The chapter concludes with a formulation of how culture, society, and individuals interact in human life.
Skinfolk Ain’t Always Kinfolk: The Dangers of Assuming and Assigning Inherent Cultural Responsiveness to Teachers of Color

This article details the dangers of assuming that teachers of color are either inherently culturally responsive or prepared in teacher training programs to be more culturally responsive than their ...
Learning Sequential Decision Tasks for Robot Manipulation with Abstract Markov Decision Processes and Demonstration-Guided Exploration

Solving high-level sequential decision tasks situated on physical robots is a challenging problem. Reinforcement learning, the standard paradigm for solving sequential decision problems, allows robots to learn directly from experience, but is ill-equipped to deal with issues of scalability and uncertainty introduced by real-world tasks. We reformulate the problem representation to better apply to robot manipulation using the relations of Object-Oriented MDPs (OO-MDPs) and the hierarchical structure provided by Abstract MDPs (AMDPs). We present a relation-based AMDP formulation for solving tabletop organizational packing tasks, as well as a demonstration-guided exploration algorithm for learning AMDP transition functions inspired by state- and action-centric learning from demonstration approaches. We evaluate our representation and learning methods in a simulated environment, showing that our hierarchical representation is suitable for solving complex tasks, and that our state- and action-centric exploration biasing methods are both effective and complementary for efficiently learning AMDP transition functions. We show that the learned policy can be transferred to different tabletop organizational packing tasks, and validate that the policy can be realized on a physical system.
Learning the Formation Mechanism of Domain-Level Chromatin States with Epigenomics Data

Epigenetic modifications can extend over long genomic regions to form domain-level chromatin states that play critical roles in gene regulation. The molecular mechanism for the establishment and maintenance of these states is not fully understood and remains challenging to study with existing experimental techniques. Here, we took a data-driven approach and parameterized an information-theoretic model to infer the formation mechanism of domain-level chromatin states from genome-wide epigenetic modification profiles. This model reproduces statistical correlations among histone modifications and identifies well-known states. Importantly, it predicts drastically different mechanisms and kinetic pathways for the formation of euchromatin and heterochromatin. In particular, long, strong enhancer and promoter states grow gradually from short but stable regulatory elements via a multistep process. On the other hand, the formation of heterochromatin states is highly cooperative, and no intermediate states are found along the transition path. This cooperativity can arise from a chromatin looping-mediated spreading of histone methylation mark and supports collapsed, globular three-dimensional conformations rather than regular fibril structures for heterochromatin. We further validated these predictions using changes of epigenetic profiles along cell differentiation. Our study demonstrates that information-theoretic models can go beyond statistical analysis to derive insightful kinetic information that is otherwise difficult to access.
Usable and Useful: On the Origins of Transparent Design in Personal Computing:

It is often taken for granted that personal computers today are designed to hide technical information in order to make software seem easier. While “transparency of interaction” has influenced popu...
The Instruments Available to Achieve Stability in the Euro Area: The Current Functioning of the Economic Governance

This chapter studies the current functioning of the economic union. After having analysed the decentralised model of fiscal integration and the concept of governance in EU law, the research will consider the application of European supervisory and corrective instruments on national macroeconomic policies, the introduction of constitutional limits in the national budgetary cycle, the regulatory role of financial markets, the implementation of the conditionality policy in the framework of financial assistance, the development of investment policies in the EU legal framework and the establishment of the banking union.
Online Information for Treatment for Low-Risk Thyroid Cancer: Assessment of Timeliness, Content, Quality, and Readability

The Internet is a key source of health information, yet little is known about resources for low-risk thyroid cancer treatment. We examined the timeliness, content, quality, readability, and reference to the 2015 American Thyroid Association (ATA) guidelines in websites about thyroid cancer treatment. We identified the top 60 websites using Google, Bing, and Yahoo for “thyroid cancer.” Timeliness and content analysis identified updates in the ATA guidelines (n = 6) and engaged a group of stakeholders to develop essential items (n = 29) for making treatment decisions. Website quality and readability analysis used 4 validated measures: DISCERN; Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmark criteria; Health on the Net Foundation certification (HONcode); and the Suitability Assessment of Materials (SAM) method. Of the 60 websites, 22 were unique and investigated. Content analysis revealed zero websites contained all updates from the ATA guidelines and rarely (18.2%) referenced them. Only 31.8% discussed all 3 treatment options: total thyroidectomy, lobectomy, and active surveillance. Websites discussed 28.2% of the 29 essential items for making treatment decisions. Quality analysis with DISCERN showed “fair” scores overall. Only 29.9% of the JAMA benchmarks were satisfied, and 40.9% were HONcode certified. Readability analysis with the SAM method found adequate readability, yet 90.9% scored unsuitable in literacy demand. The overall timeliness, content, quality, and readability of websites about low-risk thyroid cancer treatment is fair and needs improvement. Most websites lack updates from the 2015 ATA guidelines and information about treatment options that are necessary to make informed decisions.
Colchicine Toxicity: The Fatal Masquerader

Abstract Colchicine toxicity results in fatal multiorgan failure. We present a case of colchicine toxicity resulting in transient biventricular failure and cardiogenic shock that were successfully ...
“Guys Who Suck in Bed Are the Butt of Jokes”: The Pressure to Perform

The men in this study expressed concern that they might become the “butt” of jokes should partners find their sexual performance lacking. They spoke of a keen awareness that men’s sexual failures serve as comic fodder in mainstream culture. They mentioned both fictional portrayals and experiences with friends and partners that drove this point home. For these men, the pressure to perform well in bed proved salient. They reported a sense of concern that one bad performance may label them forever. At the same time, men believed that their sexual prowess could compensate for other perceived shortcomings.
Students authoring molecular case studies as a partial course-based undergraduate research experience (CURE) for lab instruction

Understanding the relationship between protein structure and function is a core-learning goal in biochemistry. Students often struggle to visualize proteins as three-dimensional objects that interact with other molecules to affect its biochemical consequences. We describe here a partial course-based undergraduate research experiences that has students exploring protein structure and function hands-on while authoring a molecular case study intended for others to use.
Effects of foot progression angle on knee mechanics during an anticipated cutting task: A statistical parametric mapping approach.

Abstract Cutting is considered a “high-risk” movement for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. It has been established that sex differences exist during cutting, placing females at greater ACL injury risk. Foot progression angle (FPA) during landing has been shown to influence lower extremity mechanics, yet little is known how FPA influences mechanics during cutting. The purpose of this study was to compare two FPA conditions during cutting between males and females. Twenty-four males and females were tested using two FPA conditions: toe-in 15˚ (TI15) and toe-out 15˚ (TO15). Right knee joint kinematic and kinetic variables were measured using a motion capture system and force plate. Five successful trials were collected and compared between FPA conditions. One-dimensional statistical parametric mapping was used to assess changes in knee mechanics between males and females over the entire stance phase. The only sex×FPA effect found was knee flexion angle. Females cutting at TI15 had decreased knee flexion angle compared TO15 (p=0.019). Significant sex main effects included knee abduction and rotation angles, and knee flexion and rotation moments. Significant FPA main effects included knee flexion, abduction and rotation angles. The results show cutting with a toe-in FPA of 15° is enough to induce changes in knee abduction angle while cutting with 15° toe-out FPA influenced knee flexion and rotation angles. These data suggest that different cutting FPAs may be influential on known ACL injury risk variables. However, more research is warranted on cutting FPA before FPA is targeted as part of ACL injury prevention protocols.
Recognition of modified forms of ribonuclease A by the ubiquitin system.

Abstract The substrate specificity of the ubiquitin (Ub) conjugation system was explored with regard to recognition of unfolded conformation and/or oxidized methionine residues in six derivatives of bovine RNase A. Based on the following observations, ubiquitination of RNase A substrates by the enzymes in a rabbit reticulocyte extract appears to correlate with unfolded conformation rather than with methionine oxidation. 1) Methionine oxidation in already unfolded forms of RNase A does not enhance ubiquitination. 2) Fluorescence measurements and iodoacetate trapping of free sulfhydryls show that the disulfide bonds of MetSO-RNase A, in which the 4 methionine residues are oxidized to the sulfoxide, are reduced by 2 mM dithiothreitol (DTT) in standard Ub conjugation assays so that this derivative also is unfolded. 3) Although MetSO-RNase A is ubiquitinated in the absence of DTT, its intrinsic fluorescence, cation-exchange properties, and susceptibility to reduction indicate a non-native conformation. 4) Methionine sulfoxide-containing peptides that mimic regions of RNase A fail to inhibit conjugation of 125I-Ub to MetSO-RNase A. Ub adducts to two of the six derivatives (MetSO- and reduced/carboxamidomethylated MetSO-RNase A) increase when DTT is omitted from the reactions. Ubaldehyde, an inhibitor of isopeptidases that disassemble Ub-protein conjugates, increased product yields and reduced or abolished the DTT effect, suggesting that an isopeptidase specific for these two RNase A derivatives may be inactivated by oxidation. Ub conjugates of the other RNase A derivatives also increase with Ub-aldehyde but are unaffected by DTT.
The Design, Assessment, And Implementation of a Web-Based Course

The design of a web-based course is discussed based upon considerations of content, pedagogy, learning styles, and assessment. The learning styles are examined as primary considerations and indeed dictate needed elements in a webbased course. Assessment is also considered in the initial planning of such a course. These design elements are discussed with particular web elements given for each design element. Further illustration of the design procedure can be seen by going to a freshman chemistry course referenced at the end of this article. All considerations discussed in this article may be used both for a web-enhanced course and a course taught totally online. This discussion was presented at EdMedia00 in Montreal, Canada. To design a course for optimum impact, the following should be simultaneously considered: the course material; the students’ learning styles; pedagogy, which includes methodologies of presentation; and assessment. These items then need to be considered as itemized.
Betaherpesviruses: Cytomegalovirus, Human Herpesviruses 6 and 7

1 Cytomegalovirus 2 Human Herpesviruses 6 and 7 Keywords: betaherpesviruses-cytomegalovirus, human herpesviruses 6 and 7; cytomegalovirus; patients at risk for acute CMV disease-newborn infants infected in utero, patients with AIDS; risk factors for infection-organ transplantation from infected donor into CMV non-immune host, significant immunosuppression; polymerase chain reaction (PCR); interferon (IFN)-γ-having significant antiviral activity; antiviral therapy; ganciclovir-nucleoside analogue inhibiting chain elongation
Effects of Asymmetrical Roll Bonding on Microstructure, Chemical Phases and Property of Copper/Aluminum Clad Sheet

The present paper investigated the morphology and chemical phases of interfacial layer of Copper/Aluminum clad sheet by scanning electrical microscope equipped with energy dispersive X-ray detector and X-ray diffraction, also measured the mechanical property through micro-hardness test. The results are that the interfacial bonding is enhanced and the thickness of interfacial layer increases with mismatch speed ratio rising. The improved interfacial bonding can be found from the tensile fracture. The formation of intermetallic compound (IMC) is promoted by the significant element diffusion at high speed ratio. For sample annealed at 400 °C for 20 min, the formation of IMC is negligible, but the fracture lies between compounds. The micro-hardness on the interface decreases with speed ratio increasing. The study shows that the improvement of microstructure and mechanical property and formation control of IMC of Copper/Aluminum clad sheet can be achieved using asymmetrical roll bonding with high speed ratio.
Swift Late GRB Emission and GLAST

Recent observations of early X‐ray afterglows of GRBs by the Swift satellite — prior to t ∼ 103s but well after the end of the burst — show most GRBs to be followed by highly time and energy variable emission. This was unexpected prior to Swift and physical mechanisms remain largely mysterious. The spectra exhibit a strong hard‐to‐soft evolution which tracks the flux, consistent with a well‐established hardness intensity correlation for the prompt Gamma‐ray emission. The light curves show dramatic flares or rapid logarithmic time decays. In the simplest interpretation, this emission is GRB‐like and indicates a long lived energy source with the possibility of interacting shells of widely varying bulk Lorentz factor. We review the phenomenology in order to ascertain how GLAST observations of this early emission, either detected directly or through the detection of inverse‐Compton emission, can help to rule on possible models.