cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Epstein-Barr Virus-Positive Cancers Show Altered B-Cell Clonality.

ABSTRACT Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is convincingly associated with gastric cancer, nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and certain lymphomas, but its role in other cancer types remains controversial. To test the hypothesis that there are additional cancer types with high prevalence of EBV, we determined EBV viral expression in all the Cancer Genome Atlas Project (TCGA) mRNA sequencing (mRNA-seq) samples (n = 10,396) from 32 different tumor types. We found that EBV was present in gastric adenocarcinoma and lymphoma, as expected, and was also present in >5% of samples in 10 additional tumor types. For most samples, EBV transcript levels were low, which suggests that EBV was likely present due to infected infiltrating B cells. In order to determine if there was a difference in the B-cell populations, we assembled B-cell receptors for each sample and found B-cell receptor abundance (P ≤ 1.4 × 10−20) and diversity (P ≤ 8.3 × 10−27) were significantly higher in EBV-positive samples. Moreover, diversity was independent of B-cell abundance, suggesting that the presence of EBV was associated with an increased and altered B-cell population. IMPORTANCE Around 20% of human cancers are associated with viruses. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) contributes to gastric cancer, nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and certain lymphomas, but its role in other cancer types remains controversial. We assessed the prevalence of EBV in RNA-seq from 32 tumor types in the Cancer Genome Atlas Project (TCGA) and found EBV to be present in >5% of samples in 12 tumor types. EBV infects epithelial cells and B cells and in B cells causes proliferation. We hypothesized that the low expression of EBV in most of the tumor types was due to infiltration of B cells into the tumor. The increase in B-cell abundance and diversity in subjects where EBV was detected in the tumors strengthens this hypothesis. Overall, we found that EBV was associated with an increased and altered immune response. This result is not evidence of causality, but a potential novel biomarker for tumor immune status.
Dance Entry Level Teacher Assessment (DELTA): Reframing dance teacher preparation through consensus building

The Dance Entry Level Teacher Assessment (DELTA) measures pedagogical content knowledge and subject-specific content knowledge in dance. Created and administered jointly by the National Dance Educa...
Extracting fiber length distributions from dual-beard fibrographs with the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm:

Fiber length is a critical cotton fiber property that impacts yarn strength, yarn evenness, and ultimately fabric strength and appearance. In this paper, a new fiber fibrograph method was presented...
Functionally Graded Materials through robotics-inspired path planning

Abstract Functional grading has recently seen renewed interest with the advancement of additive manufacturing. Unfortunately, the integrity of functional gradients in alloys tends to be compromised by the presence of brittle phases. Recently, CALPHAD-based tools have been used to generate isothermal phase diagrams that are in turn utilized to plan gradient paths that avoid these phases. However, existing frameworks rely extensively on the (limited) ability of humans to visualize and navigate high-dimensional spaces. To tackle this challenge, a Machine Learning approach was used here to map out undesirable regions as ‘obstacles’, while a path-planning algorithm, commonly used in robotics community, was utilized to identify a path in a composition space that would avoid the obstacles, while simultaneously minimizing a cost function. This framework was validated by designing and 3-D printing a functional gradient in bulk samples from 316L stainless steel to pure chromium with a multi-material direct laser deposition system. Both the planned gradient and simple linear gradient samples were fabricated and characterized in as-deposited and heat-treated states to determine local compositions, microstructure and phase constituents. The planned gradient resulted in complete elimination of the detrimental σ phase after heat treatment, demonstrating the success of the methodology.
Interaction kinetics with transcriptomic and secretory responses of CD19-CAR natural killer-cell therapy in CD20 resistant non-hodgkin lymphoma

We investigated the cytolytic and mechanistic activity of anti-CD19 chimeric antigen receptor natural killer (CD19.CAR.NK92) therapy in lymphoma cell lines (diffuse large B-cell, follicular, and Burkitt lymphoma), including rituximab- and obinutuzumab-resistant cells, patient-derived cells, and a human xenograft model. CD19.CAR.NK92 therapy significantly increased cytolytic activity at E:T ratios (1:1–10:1) via LDH release and prominent induction of apoptosis in all cell lines, including in anti-CD20 resistant lymphoma cells. The kinetics of CD19.CAR.NK92 cell death measured via droplet-based single cell microfluidics analysis showed that most lymphoma cells were killed by single contact, with anti-CD20 resistant cell lines requiring significantly longer contact duration with NK cells. In addition, systems biology transcriptomic analyses of flow-sorted lymphoma cells co-cultured with CD19.CAR.NK92 revealed conserved activation of IFNγ signaling, execution of apoptosis, ligand binding, and immunoregulatory and chemokine signaling pathways. Furthermore, a 92-plex cytokine panel analysis showed increased secretion of granzymes, increased secretion of FASL, CCL3, and IL10 in anti-CD20 resistant SUDHL4 cells with induction of genes relevant to mTOR and G2/M checkpoint activation, which were noted in all anti-CD20 resistant cells co-cultured with CD19.CAR.NK92 cells. Collectively, CD19.CAR.NK92 was associated with potent anti-lymphoma activity across a host of sensitive and resistant lymphoma cells that involved distinct immuno-biologic mechanisms of cell death.
Feasibility of Using an LVAD App to Engage Patients in Recovery Post Implant Discharge

Purpose VAD clinicians are highly utilized for routine questions from patients post implant discharge. Our team sought to develop an electronic monitoring system for LVAD patients similar to other surgical platforms to reduce healthcare utilization, increase patient engagement, and achieve behaviors to promote shared management of the LVAD system. Methods Our institution utilized the Twistle™ automated patient engagement application to send customized messages to LVAD patients post index hospitalization who had an IOS or Android supported phone. Messaging was sent daily x 2 weeks, every other day x 2 weeks for a maximum of 22 entries in the first 30 days. Patients entered VAD data, activity time and answered questions regarding fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness and swelling. If a positive response was entered, the app prompted the patient to rate the symptom. Any messaging from the patient resulting in a negative response instructed the patient to call the VAD clinic. Results Fourteen LVAD patients participated (mean age 39 years, 91% male, 92% supported by HeartMate3™). The average patient engagement was 87%, 2 patients (14%) were readmitted within 30 days and the most reported symptom was fatigue. Nine (64%) patients chose to continue Twistle™ use after 30 days. Based on this small sample there was a tendency for patients with increased symptoms to be readmitted within 30 days. Conclusion Digital technology in the form of an LVAD app can be used to assess LVAD data alongside symptoms with a high rate of engagement. Use of an LVAD app has potential to improve patient care and identify high risk VAD patients to prevent readmission.
Reducing the Discussion Divide by Digital Questionnaires in Health Care Settings: Disruptive Innovation for HIV Testing and PrEP Screening.

BACKGROUND Health care provider assessment of patient sexual behavior and substance use is essential for determining appropriate prevention interventions-including HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)-for sexual minority men (SMM). We sought to explore acceptability and utility of using electronic surveys to conduct health behavior assessments in clinical settings among SMM. METHODS Among a US nationwide sample of SMM (n = 4187; mean age = 38.3 years; 60% white; 82% HIV-negative), we examined associations of demographics, recruitment venue, sexual behavior characteristics, and recent substance use with participants' comfort communicating verbally and through electronic survey with a health care provider about sexual and substance use behavior. RESULTS On average, SMM had greater comfort communicating through electronic survey vs. verbally. In our fully adjusted analysis, preference favoring electronic surveys more strongly than verbal communication differed by age (β = -0.07, P ≤ 0.001). SMM with a bachelor's degree or more (β = 0.04, P < 0.05), those recruited from nonclinical settings (β = 0.06, P ≤ 0.001), and those without primary care providers (β = 0.04, P < 0.05) favored electronic surveys more strongly in the fully adjusted multivariable model. SMM who reported any recent casual sex partners (β = 0.05, P < 0.01), those never tested for HIV (β = 0.03, P < 0.05), and HIV-negative/unknown men not on PrEP (compared with PrEP users; β = 0.09, P ≤ 0.001) also favored electronic surveys in the fully adjusted model. CONCLUSIONS Reducing communication barriers by incorporating electronic surveys into patient assessments could help identify HIV testing and PrEP needs for SMM most susceptible to HIV acquisition. Nonetheless, no one screening strategy is likely to work for most SMM, and multiple approaches are needed.
Nonlinear Variable Selection via Deep Neural Networks

This article presents a general framework for high-dimensional nonlinear variable selection using deep neural networks under the framework of supervised learning. The network architecture includes ...
Faint, Evolving Radio Active Galactic Nuclei in SDSS Luminous Red Galaxies

We detect and study the properties of faint radio active galactic nuclei (AGNs) in luminous red galaxies (LRGs). The LRG sample comprises 760,000 objects from a catalog of LRG photometric redshifts constructed from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) imaging data, and 65,000 LRGs from the SDSS spectroscopic sample. These galaxies have typical 1.4 GHz flux densities in the 10s-100s of μJy, with the contribution from a low-luminosity AGN dominating any contribution from star formation. To probe the radio properties of such faint objects, we employ a stacking technique whereby FIRST survey image cutouts at each optical LRG position are sorted by the parameter of interest and median-combined within bins. We find that median radio luminosity scales with optical luminosity (L opt) as L 1.4 GHz L β opt, where β depends on the redshift being probed. Above z 0.4, β appears to decrease from β 1 at z = 0.4 to β 0 at z = 0.7, a result which could be indicative of AGN cosmic downsizing. We also find that the overall LRG population, which is dominated by low-luminosity AGNs, experiences significant cosmic evolution between z = 0.2 and z = 0.7. A simultaneous fit to untangle the redshift and luminosity dependences yields redshift evolution of the form L 1.4 GHz (1 + z)3.15±0.07, implying a considerable increase in total AGN heating for these massive ellipticals with redshift. By matching against the FIRST catalog, we investigate the incidence and properties of LRGs associated with double-lobed (FR I/II) radio galaxies.
Enhanced recovery after posterior cervical fusion surgery: A retrospective case series

Abstract Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) is a multifaceted strategy, involving all phases of surgical care, intended to mitigate the stress response of surgery and optimize patient outcomes. A growing number of publications have demonstrated the benefits of ERAS protocols in specific populations of spine surgery patients. ERAS protocols have yet to be studied in patients undergoing posterior cervical decompression and fusion (PCDF) surgery. In this study, we compared the length of stay (LOS) and discharge disposition between two groups of patients that had PCDF surgery for degenerative pathologies. The pre-ERAS group consisted of 74 patients that had surgery between 2012 and 2017. The post-ERAS group included 25 patients that had surgery between 2017 and 2019. There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of age, gender, and diagnosis (p greater than 0.05). The post-ERAS group had statistically non-significant, positive trends for LOS and discharge disposition. Implementation of an ERAS protocol for PCDF patients is feasible, however, future studies are needed to refine ERAS protocols and confirm the benefits.
Characterization of Heat Responsive microRNAs and Phased Small Interfering RNAs in Reproductive Development of Flax

Plants will face increased heat stress due to rising global temperatures. Heat stress affects plant reproductive development and decreases productivity; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms of these processes are poorly characterized. Plant small RNAs (sRNAs) have important regulatory roles in plant reproductive development following abiotic stress responses. We generated sRNA transcriptomes of three reproductive bud stages at three different time points to identify sRNA-mediated pathways responsive to heat stress in flax. With added sRNA transcriptomes of vegetative tissues, we comprehensively annotated miRNA and phasiRNA-encoding genes (PHAS) in flax. We identified 173 miRNA genes, of which 42 are novel. Our analysis revealed that 141 miRNA genes were differentially expressed between tissue types while 18 miRNA genes were differentially expressed in reproductive tissues following heat stress, including members of miR2118/482 and miR2275 families, known triggers of reproductive phasiRNAs. Furthermore, we identified 68 21-PHAS flax loci from protein coding and non-coding regions, four 24-PHAS loci triggered by miR2275, and 658 24-PHAS-like loci with unknown triggers, derived mostly from non-coding regions. The reproductive phasiRNAs are mostly downregulated in response to heat stress. Overall, we found that several previously unreported miRNAs and phasiRNAs are responsive to heat stress in flax reproductive tissues.
Psychosis in childhood and adolescence

Introduction: The Complexity of Psychosis J.B.McCarthy Part I: The Development of Psychosis 1. Contemporary Views of Psychotic Disorders J.B McCarthy 2. Cognitive Schemas, the Role of Attachment and Psychosis M.F. Voilla, A.J. Gerber 3. Early Childhood Risk Factors for Autism and Psychosis K.M. Sossin Part II: Psychosis and Co-Occurring Disorders 4. Childhood Onset Schizophrenia A. Krasner, D. Winter 5. Mood Disorders and Psychosis J. B. McCarthy, Z. Dobrshi 6.Childhood Trauma and Psychosis E. Henry Part III: Treatment and Future Directions 7. Play Therapy with Psychotic and Borderline Children J.B. McCarthy, G.B. Guarton 8. Core Elements of Psychodynamic Technique A.M. Eisenberg 9. Evidence-Based Practice and Childhood Psychosis E. Kline, J. Schiffman, J. Choi, C. Laitner, J. Rogove 10. Forensic Issues with Psychosis and Youth Violence M.G. Master, L. Melnik, S. Inouye
Metabolism and Oxidative Stress Response Pathways in Kidney Cancer: A Tale of Chance and Necessity

Over 270,000 patients are affected with kidney cancer worldwide and 120,000 died from this disease in 2014. Over the last few decades, important progress has been made in our understanding of the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying the growth of these tumors, which has led to improvement in patient care. Some of the most significant recent advances came from the increasing number of large datasets generated by bioinformatics (genomics, proteomics, etc.) and their integration to characterize the genetic and molecular factors responsible for kidney tumor development and survival. Interestingly, deregulated metabolism and oxidative stress pathways are commonly found in advanced-stage kidney tumors and are important factors to consider and potentially target when developing therapeutic approaches.
A framework for qualitative reasoning about solid objects

Predicting the behavior of a qualitatively described system of solid objects requires a combination of geometrical, temporal, and physical reasoning. Methods based upon formulating and solving differential equations are not adequate for robust prediction, since the behavior of a system over extended time may be much simpler than its behavior over local time. A first-order logic, in which one can state simple physical problems and derive their solution deductively, without recourse to solving the differential equations, is discussed. This logic is substantially more expressive and powerful than any previous AI representational system in this domain.
Characteristics and Frequency of Transient Relaxations of the Lower Esophageal Sphincter in Patients With Reflux Esophagitis

Electromyogram of the submental muscles, esophageal manometry, and pH studies were simultaneously performed in an unselected group of 12 patients with subjective and objective evidence of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) disease to determine the frequency of transient relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and mechanisms of GER. Findings from these patients were compared with data from 10 asymptomatic healthy volunteers. Recordings were obtained for 1 h in the fasting state and 3 h after a standard 850-kcal meal. Transient relaxation of the LES was the only mechanism of acid reflux in normal subjects and accounted for 73.0% of the episodes of acid reflux in patients with GER disease. In both normal subjects and patients with GER, a large number of transient relaxations were associated at their onset with an attenuated submental EMG complex, a small pharyngeal contraction, and an esophageal contraction. The incidences of these associated events were similar in the two study populations. The frequency of transient relaxation of the LES in patients with GER was identical to that of controls. The frequency did not differ even in 9 patients with GER disease who had endoscopic esophagitis. Thirty-six percent of transient relaxations in the normal subjects were accompanied by pH evidence of reflux, but in the GER patients with endoscopic esophagitis 65% of the transient LES relaxations resulted in a reflux event. Acid reflux at the moment of deep inspiration was the second most common mechanism of GER in our patients. Four patients who demonstrated this mechanism had hiatal hernias and more severe esophagitis than the rest of the group. Our findings confirm that transient relaxation of the LES is the major mechanism of GER in patients with reflux esophagitis. However, the similar frequency of this relaxation in GER patients and in healthy asymptomatic subjects suggests that factors other than transient LES relaxation play an important role in the pathogenesis of GER disease.
Acoustic sensors for monitoring neuronal adhesion in real-time

Neuronal adhesion plays a fundamental role in growth, migration, regeneration and plasticity of neurons. However, current methods for studying cellular adhesion cannot monitor the process in real time. We used quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) to measure adhesion of neuro-blastoma cells. In-vitro experiments were performed with approximately 6000 neuro-blastoma cells. The quartz crystal sandwiched between gold electrodes was placed in a flow-cell and filled with 600 of phosphate buffered solution (PBS). Addition of 10 /spl mu/m of media and cells into the above set-up caused the resonant frequency of the quartz crystal to decrease by approximately 5000 Hz over a period of 6 hours. Control experiments with no cells elicited no change in the resonant frequency of the quartz crystal. The linearity of the response of the sensor was confirmed in experiments done with different number of cells. We conclude that the acoustic sensor can be a very sensitive indicator and can potentially be used for monitoring the neuronal adhesion process in real-time.
Timeliness of Neurology Consultations in the Emergency Department: A Quality Evaluation (P4.280)

OBJECTIVE: To determine the average length of neurology consultations in the Emergency Department (ED) at an academic medical center with a neurology residency training program. BACKGROUND: Recent studies have shown an association between increased length of ED stay and increased hospital mortality and length of hospital stay. Neurologic consultations can add to ED patient time. The ED at Rush University Medical Center expressed concern that the timing of neurology consults was unacceptably prolonged. While the timing of acute stroke consultations is typically tracked at many institutions, including ours, the same is not true for other neurology consultations. DESIGN/METHODS: All neurology consultations called from the ED, excluding acute strokes, were tracked over one week in August 2013. Neurology residents recorded the time they received a consult page, the time they arrived at the bedside, and the time they communicated recommendations (after staffing the patient with a neurology attending) to the ED. Average consult times (± 1 SD) were calculated. If a consultation took longer than one hour, the resident noted contributing factors. RESULTS: 29 non-acute-stroke ED consult requests were received during the tracking period. The average time from page to resident arrival at bedside was 16 ± 21 minutes, and from page to recommendations was 57 ± 22 minutes. Reasons for prolonged consults (> 1 hour) included waiting for lab/imaging results, staffing a patient with both General Neurology and Stroke attendings, and receiving multiple simultaneous consults. CONCLUSIONS: Neurologic consultations called from the ED, excluding acute strokes, were completed in an average of 57 minutes. Reasons for prolonged consultations included waiting for results, staffing patients with two neurology services, and multiple simultaneous consult requests. Our department plans to re-evaluate ED consult times every three months to troubleshoot any timing issues that arise. Future studies could evaluate how length of neurology ED consults affects outcomes. Disclosure: Dr. Holden has nothing to disclose. Dr. Lewis has received personal compensation in an editorial capacity for Neurology and Continuum: Lifelong Learning in Neurology. Dr. Lewis has received royalty payments from Wolters Kluwer and Wiley.
Effect of Phenethyl Isothiocyanate on p21Waf1/Cip1 Regulation of Cell Cycle Arrest in Pancreatic Cancer Cells

Pancreatic cancer continues to be a disease with a dismal prognosis primarily due to diagnosis occurring later in the progression of the disease. Once at an advanced stage, treatment of the tumor t...
Gene targeting in vivo with pegylated immunoliposomes.

Publisher Summary This chapter deals with pegylated immunoliposome (PIL) gene-targeting technology that is based on an advanced molecular reformulation of the therapeutic gene. This gene-targeting technology is derived from the merger of multiple and disparate disciplines, including liposome technology, pegylation technology, monoclonal antibody technology, and molecular biology. The PIL gene-targeting technology enables the widespread expression of an exogenous gene throughout the target organ following a noninvasive, intravenous injection of a nonviral formulation. The specificity of the tissue expression of the exogenous gene is derived from the combined influences of the specificity of the targeting ligand and the tissue specificity of the promoter that is placed at the 50-end of the therapeutic gene. With the combined use of gene-targeting technology and tissue-specific gene promoters, it is possible to have tissue-specific gene expression widely throughout the target organ following an intravenous injection of the therapeutic gene. The PIL gene targeting technology is for transient or extrachromosomal gene expression in vivo using plasmid vectors that do not integrate into the host genome. It is possible to trigger stable integration of an exogenous gene into genomic host DNA with nonviral expression vectors by incorporating certain transposons into the plasmid. The incorporation of transposon elements into expression plasmids allows stable integration of the exogenous gene in the host genome following the intravenous administration of a nonviral plasmid DNA that is encapsulated in a pegylated immunoliposome.
Subcellular localization of the 52,000 molecular weight major postsynaptic density protein

Abstract We have recently reported that in isolated synaptic junctions, the quantity of the major post-synaptic density protein (mPSDp,Mr = 52,000) increases approximately twenty-fold during the third and fourth weeks of postnatal development. In the study that follows, systematic analyses were carried out to determine the subcellular localization of this prominent synaptic protein in adult brain and non-neuronal tissues. Subcellular fractionation and SDS-gel electrophoresis were used to isolate various tissue components and identify proteins that possessed molecular weights similar to that of the mPSDp. To unambiguously verify the molecular identify of all proteins suspected of being the mPSDp, two-dimensional peptide fingerprinting was carried out. In addition, the different subcellular fractions were examined for the presence of structures morphologically resembling the postsynaptic density. The mPSDp was found only in fractions containing identifiable asymmetric synaptic structures and/or postsynaptic densities. This protein was not found in non-neuronal tissues or any other fraction in which there was not a demonstrable presence of postsynaptic densities. This work strongly indicates that the major PSD protein is a molecular ‘marker’ specific to asymmetric synapses in the mammalian forebrain.
Silicon PV devices based on a single step for doping, anti-reflection and surface passivation

A simplified process for photovoltaic device fabrication is explored. The simplified process incorporates a single step wherein a thin film of phosphorus doped spin on dopant (SOD) serves as dopant source, anti-reflection coating (ARC) and a surface passivation layer. Detailed fabrication and photovoltaic device characterization results are presented. Device results for solar cells fabricated on low minority carrier lifetime Cz-substrates and high minority carrier lifetime Fz (polished and chemically textured substrates) are presented. Using this simplified process, photovoltaic devices with conversion efficiency of over 15% on c-Si wafers have been demonstrated. Further improvements in efficiency are possible by reduction in series resistance, control of surface dopant concentration and a rear passivated electrode configuration.
Design and Evaluation of a Hybrid Physical Space Service for Pervasive Computing Applications

In this paper we present the design and implementation of a space service that gives pervasive computing applications both a hierarchical and coordinate-based view of physical space. The space service supports both indoor and outdoor campus environments and, besides relational and coordinate space information, it also gives information on how spaces are connected and relevant properties of spaces. We also evaluate the effectiveness of our design using a set of diverse applications, including finding the best "walking" path between two locations, giving walking directions to people, WiFi-based localization, and drawing and annotating maps. We have found that all of our applications depend on both the hierarchical and coordinate views offered by the service, suggesting that the hybrid space model is a very powerful paradigm.
In vitro suppression of immunoglobulin allotype synthesis by antibody specific for heavy chain determinants

Abstract Spleen cells (SpC) from normal adult rabbits heterozygous at the a locus for heavy chain allotypes or at the b locus for kappa light chain allotypes were incubated for 24 hr in vitro with various antibodies (Ab) specific for allotypic determinants on the Fd fragment of immunoglobulin (Ig). After washing, the cells were reincubated in vitro for an additional 4 days to ascertain the effect of these various Ab preparations on subsequent Ig production. Inhibition of indirect radioprecipitation was used as a sensitive assay for the allotypic markers on Ig molecules in the tissue culture supernatant fluids. SpC from rabbits heterozygous for allotypic determinants of the Fd fragment, i.e., of genotype a1a3, were incubated with anti-a1 or anti-a3 and this led to a suppression in the production of the corresponding allotype without a discernible effect on the allelic allotype. Suppression of Ig production was also achieved by incubation of SpC with class-specific anti-IgM but not with class-specific anti-IgG Ab, which suggests that the cells that are suppressed interact with the Ab via an IgM molecule, which is an integral part of the cell membrane.
Cognitive adaptation and its consequences: a test of cognitive continuum theory

Cognitive Continuum Theory (CCT) is an adaptive theory of human judgement and posits a continuum of cognitive modes anchored by intuition and analysis. The theory specifies surface and depth task characteristics that are likely to induce cognitive modes at different points along the cognitive continuum. The current study manipulated both the surface (information representation) and depth (task structure) characteristics of a multiple-cue integration threat assessment task. The surface manipulation influenced cognitive mode in the predicted direction with an iconic information display inducing a more intuitive mode than a numeric information display. The depth manipulation influenced cognitive mode in a pattern not predicted by CCT. Results indicate this difference was due to a combination of task complexity and participant satisfacing. As predicted, analysis produced a more leptokurtic error distribution than intuition. Task achievement was a function of the extent to which participants demonstrated an analytic cognitive mode index, and not a function of correspondence, as predicted. This difference was likely due to the quantitative nature of the task manipulations. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Restructuring of Mechanically Deboned Chicken and Nonmeat Binders in a Twin‐screw Extruder

A twin-screw cooking extruder was used to restructure mechanically deboned chicken (MDC) in combination with three nonmeat binders, corn starch (CS), soy protein isolate (SPI) and wheat gluten (WG), at concentrations of 10–30%. Extrudates were evaluated by apparent tensile stress (ATS), Warner Bratzler shear stress (WBSS), proximate composition and reheat yield. SPI and WG were less effective than starch for increasing the ATS and WBSS of extruded MDC. The effects of die temperatures between 71–115°C on chemical and textural properties of extrudates containing 10% and 15% starch were investigated. The ATS and WBSS increased as a function of temperature up to 104°C. Fat content and lipid oxidation decreased as extrusion temperatures increased.
Metabolism and pharmacokinetics of radium-223 in prostate cancer.

Introduction: Prostate cancer metastatic to bone is a cause of significant morbidity and mortality. Bone pain and other skeletal events negatively impact the quality of life in patients who might otherwise be functioning well. As such, there has been intense interest in the development of strategies and pharmaceuticals to address this problem.Areas covered: The authors reviewed the current literature for articles relevant to metastatic prostate cancer, clinical radiopharmaceuticals, castrate-resistant prostate cancer and development of Radium-223. The authors have referenced primary literature, clinical trials and relevant review articles that summarize the history, development and current utilization of radiopharmaceuticals for management of bone metastases from prostate cancer.Expert opinion: Radium-223 is the first radiopharmaceutical with an overall survival benefit approved for the treatment of patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer, symptomatic bone metastasis and no known visceral metas...
Comments on “Observational Analysis of the Predictability of Mesoscale Convective Systems”

Jirak and Cotton (2007, hereafter JC07) proposed a new index to assist in forecasting the development of mesoscale convective systems (MCSs). This ‘‘MCS index’’ is the summation of three components that are a function of the 1) ‘‘best’’ lifted index (LI), 2) 0–3-km shear vector magnitude (SVM), and 3) 700-hPa temperature advection (TAdv). JC07’s study also reemphasized important aspects of MCS development, namely, the importance of the low-level jet (e.g., Junker et al. 1999) and low-level warm advection (e.g., Maddox and Doswell 1982) in the development and sustenance of MCSs. Their MCS index attempts to account for these important physical processes. The use of indices has become ubiquitous in operational weather forecasting, especially in the realm of deep moist convection. However, indices easily can be misused and overused, as discussed by Doswell and Schultz (2006). Some indices have been developed arbitrarily, and others lack a robust physical foundation. This may be complicated further when multiple variables are combined into a single index. As a consequence, before operational forecasters can utilize indices to their potential advantage, they need a solid understanding of both how the indices were developed and the relative importance of their underlying components. The intent of this comment is to consider the MCS index and its three components, and subsequently to use the findings as motivation for others—in training and operational roles—to investigate such indices before they transfer them to operations. This study was conceived as the MCS index was being tested for operational use at the Weather Forecast Office (WFO) in Rapid City, South Dakota (RAP). Although the results do not refute the MCS index per se, there is concern this index (and possibly others) may be misapplied using standard operational gridded datasets. It is ultimately shown that the MCS index, in its present form (JC07), is not suitable for operational forecasting.
Physical Examination of the Abdominal Wall by the Speech-Language Pathologist

A protocol is presented for use by the speech-language pathologist in conducting a physical examination of the abdominal wall. Structural and performance observations are used to reveal the nature ...
REFLECTIVE EQUILIBRIUM AND JUSTIFICATION

Take it as given that the purpose of justification in moral philosophy is to provide rational grounds for preferring one moral theory over another as a basis for making moral judgments. This is not the only function which justification may serve; establishing moral truths and building consensus around moral values are alternatives on either side of this conception. But it is the sense of justification with which I will be concerned here. This is a moderate conception which is identifiably epistemic and yet not committed to the existence of moral truths. The central problem of moral epistemology on this view is to provide an account of the rational grounds on the basis of which one may discriminate between competing theories. Two extreme positions are possible here: one which holds that a method of justification exists for choosing between competitors which depends only upon the nature of rationality (Kant’s view); and another which holds that there are no rational grounds at all for choosing between competing and equally consistent moral systems (moral skepticism).
Effect of dietary 2-mercaptoethanol on the life span, immune system, tumor incidence and lipid peroxidation damage in spleen lymphocytes of aging BC3F1 mice

The age-related decline in immune function, which is thought to be responsible for the increased incidence with age of certain diseases, including cancer, has been attributed primarily to a loss of T-lymphocyte function. As free radical reactions may contribute to cellular deterioration and loss of cell function with age, we investigated the effect of adding an immunopotentiating antioxidant, 2-mercaptoethanol (2-ME), to the diet of BC3F1 mice in a longitudinal study. For the study, young mice were divided into two groups, one of which received the 2-ME-supplemented diet. Approximately every 3 months for 2.5 years, mice from each group were sacrificed and the spleen lymphocytes assessed for immune function (proliferative response to concanavalin A, phytohemagglutinin, and lipopolysaccharide and the humoral response to sheep red blood cells). The accumulation of fluorescent products indicative of free radical damage was measured in the spleen lymphocytes and the cytochrome P-450 content and activity assessed in the liver. The effect of the 2-ME-supplemented diet on the mean and maximum life span and tumor incidence was also determined. The results showed that the animals fed the 2-ME diet had an increased mean and maximum life span and a postponed onset and decreased incidence of tumors. In general the T-cell-dependent immune responses were higher in the 2-ME-fed mice compared to the controls when the animals were young. No difference was observed between the two groups during mid-life. The responses declined in both groups during the latter half of the life span, but the responses of the 2-ME-fed animals declined to a lesser extent. The accumulation of fluorescent products of lipid peroxidation damage was also delayed in the lymphocytes of the 2-ME-fed mice. Cytochrome P-450 content and activity in the liver was not different in the two groups. The results suggest that the antioxidant activity of 2-ME delayed the accumulation of free radical damage in spleen lymphocytes, which resulted in a delay in the decline of immune function and was associated with the decreased tumor incidence and increased life span.
The Effectiveness of Contextually Supported Play Date Interactions between Children with Autism and Typically Developing Peers

Difficulties with social interaction are characteristic of autism. This study presents data illustrating the use of motivational strategies in play dates to improve the quality of social interactions between children with autism and their typically developing peers. Specifically, a multiple baseline design across participants shows how a contextual support package implemented during play dates can promote reciprocal interactions and improve affect. These results support the use of intervention strategies that target the pivotal area of motivation and provide evidence for using play dates as a context for intervention. The findings are discussed in terms of promoting quality interactions and encouraging friendship development.
Substance abuse and control in the United States: ethical and legal issues.

In 1986, the United States began to wage its most recent War on Drugs. This has involved establishing various policies and making investments to implement these policies and approaches. In general, the U.S. has taken a tough-guy stand to drug abuse and control that emphasizes punishment, restriction, and 'social warfare', as opposed to a public health oriented position. Current policy reflects a 'quick fix' solution to a complex problem, which may partially explain its failure and why we appear to be losing the War on Drugs. In this review I summarize the current debates and controversies surrounding drug abuse in the U.S. regarding the extent of the drug problem, the need for drug control, prevention efforts, legalization controversy, workplace strategies, treatment dilemmas, and maternal drug abuse. I argue that a radically different approach must be taken that is grounded in public health methods and an appreciation of the larger social context in which drug abuse occurs. We must look for a long-term solution to this complex problem that is integrated into society, and which is certainly resistant to the current quick fix approaches.
Survey of pennsylvania jail wardens: An examination of visitation policies within the context of ecosystem theory

In recent years, jails have become more interdependent with the community, and policy demands have helped create a system that is becoming more open. The research discussed in this article focuses on the changes involving inmate visitation and attitudes of jail administrators using the concepts of ecosystem theory. The authors use an ecosystem perspective to suggest that clarifying and standardizing policies, increasing collaborative efforts between county facilities, developing specialized training for correction officers, and improving methods of disseminating information to visitors will help lessen some of the problems administrators normally associate with visitation.
A comparative study on publicly hosted blog sites in the U.S., China, and Korea

In the context of blogs, online trust can play an important role in connecting the author and readers. Trust is known to be one of the primary psychological aspects influencing online user profiling. In blogs, trust is reflected by how much personal information a user reveals. Trusting someone or something may be an entirely different matter in the United States than it is in China or Korea because trust affects actions that could be highly dependent on users' respective cultural context. This paper presents the preliminary results of our cross-cultural research on blogs and online trust in U.S., Chinese, and Korean cultures. Results suggest that bloggers from the U.S. reveal more personal information in self-reported user profiles than bloggers from China and Korea. However, similar percentages of U.S. and Korean bloggers are willing to reveal their locations and hobbies, and post self-photos. Additionally, we found interesting cultural insights regarding gender, age, location, hobbies, and self-photos in the user profiles of blogs across the three cultures.
A simplified pipe flexibility analysis program-Stiffness method

Abstract Many commercial programs are available for pipeline flexibility analysis, but they are all complex and consume time in preparing data for simple problems. Also, much attention has recently being given to evaluating the flexibility of curved pipes more accurately. So far no consistent method exists to evaluate the flexibility factor in such cases. Hence, a need arises for a simplified pipe flexibility analysis program while at the same time not forgoing the generality of the analysis. A simplified pipe flexibility analysis program is presented and its merits are shown. This program is tested using a comparatively simple pipeline system. Its use in obtaining consistent values for the flexibility of elbows is also discussed.
Photometric titrations—III: The consecutive titration of calcium and magnesium

Abstract The photometric titration of calcium in ammonia-ammonium chloride buffer, pH 10, is studied. Ethyleneglycol-bis(aminoethyl)-tetra-acetic acid is used as titrant and murexide as indicator. This method permits the direct titration of calcium in presence of up to a hundred-fold amount of magnesium. The determination of magnesium can immediately follow in the same solution to a photometric end-point using EDTA as titrant and Eriochrome Black T as indicator. Interferences and their exclusion are discussed.
Cloning of a cDNA for a T cell produced molecule with a putative immune regulatory role.

Abstract An expression cDNA library was constructed from the helper T cell hybridoma, A.1.1, which has been shown to produce constitutively proteins involved in the down regulation of the immune response. From this library we identified and characterized a cDNA clone, J6B7, by screening with a polyclonal antibody specific for secreted immune regulatory proteins. The mRNA for J6B7 is expressed specifically in some T cells, but not in the thymoma BW5147 or liver cells. J6B7 is 2937 nucleotides in length and contains one open reading frame encoding for a peptide of predicted M r of 98,042. The nucleotide and deduced amino acid sequences of J6B7 did not reveal significant homology to any published sequences. Hybridization and translation experiments reveal that the J6B7 can hybrid select mRNA from total RNA isolated from either A.1.1 cells or thymic tissue which can be translated in vitro to a peptide which is bound by a monoclonal antibody (mAb) specific for antigenic determinant(s) shared by immune regulatory proteins. Furthermore, the in vitro translated proteins obtained from A.1.1 cells and thymus showed significant suppression of a mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) in a dose dependant manner, reaching maximum suppression of 71% and 89%, respectively. These results suggest that the cDNA, J6B7, codes for an immune regulatory protein.
Vibrational characteristics of Balinese gamelan metallophones

A study of the eight metallophone pairs from a Balinese gamelan semara dana has been conducted. Acoustical recordings of metallophone bars being struck were used to examine ratios of overtone frequencies to the fundamental. Results showed large variability in the number and ratios of overtones present. Scanning laser Doppler vibrometry measurements made on several bars also revealed great variability in mode shapes present. The distribution of prominent overtones and their modal shapes do not appear to match those of Western metallophones. Notably, the overall gamelan metallophone characteristics are quite dissimilar to the glockenspiel, which disagrees with previous studies.
Did Eve Acquire, Create, or Procreate with Yahweh? A Grammatical and Contextual Reassessment Of קנה in Genesis 4:1

AbstractEve’s statement that she had קנה a man in Genesis 4:1 has been the subject of considerable academic debate. A grammatical reassessment of the Semitic root qnh/qny, as well as a contextual analysis of Eve’s expression קניתי איש את־יהוה supports a reading for Genesis 4:1b as “I have procreated a man with Yahweh.” This observation illustrates that some biblical authors perceived their deity as an active creative agent in the mysterious process of human conception, a view that accords with Yahweh’s participatory role in the tradition of Isaac’s conception in Genesis 21:1-3.1
Exhaled Nitric Oxide in Asthma: Variability, Relation to Asthma Severity, and Peripheral Blood Lymphocyte Cytokine Expression

Exhaled nitric oxide has been used as a means of indirectly measuring the underlying inflammation in asthma. The objectives of the study were to measure exhaled nitric oxide levels in asthma patients and healthy volunteers, to study peripheral blood lymphocyte cytokine expression, and to study the relationship between exhaled nitric oxide and intracellular cytokine expression. Exhaled nitric oxide was elevated in patients with moderate to severe asthma and with treatment decreased in the first week reaching to a near normal level by 4 weeks. Elevated exhaled nitric oxide was associated with decreased IL-4 and IL-13 cytokine expression by CD8 lymphocytes.
Teaching beliefs of non-formal consumer educators: a perspective of teaching in home improvement retail stores in the United States

The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the teaching beliefs of instructors who provide consumer education clinics (e.g. tile laying, faux painting, faucet replacement) in home improvement retail stores. Research in adult and higher education and the K-12 field demonstrate that beliefs about teaching and learning and their relationship to practice are quite significant. Only recently have teaching beliefs begun to receive attention in the field of consumer education. Using participatory observations and in-depth interviews a complex picture was revealed about non-formal consumer education representative of a customer-centred approach, an emphasis on transmission model of education, a fostering of fun and informal communication, minimal learner expectations and an epistemology rooted in personal experience. The implications are important for training future adult educators who practise in non-formal consumer education settings.