cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Bone Morphogenetic Protein Type I Receptor Antagonists Decrease Growth and Induce Cell Death of Lung Cancer Cell Lines

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are highly conserved morphogens that are essential for normal development. BMP-2 is highly expressed in the majority of non-small cell lung carcinomas (NSCLC) but not in normal lung tissue or benign lung tumors. The effects of the BMP signaling cascade on the growth and survival of cancer cells is poorly understood. We show that BMP signaling is basally active in lung cancer cell lines, which can be effectively inhibited with selective antagonists of the BMP type I receptors. Lung cancer cell lines express alk2, alk3, and alk6 and inhibition of a single BMP receptor was not sufficient to decrease signaling. Inhibition of more than one type I receptor was required to decrease BMP signaling in lung cancer cell lines. BMP receptor antagonists and silencing of BMP type I receptors with siRNA induced cell death, inhibited cell growth, and caused a significant decrease in the expression of inhibitor of differentiation (Id1, Id2, and Id3) family members, which are known to regulate cell growth and survival in many types of cancers. BMP receptor antagonists also decreased clonogenic cell growth. Knockdown of Id3 significantly decreased cell growth and induced cell death of lung cancer cells. H1299 cells stably overexpressing Id3 were resistant to growth suppression and induction of cell death induced by the BMP antagonist DMH2. These studies suggest that BMP signaling promotes cell growth and survival of lung cancer cells, which is mediated through its regulation of Id family members. Selective antagonists of the BMP type I receptors represents a potential means to pharmacologically treat NSCLC and other carcinomas with an activated BMP signaling cascade.
Demystifying the Pathologic Diagnoses of Villitis and Fetal Thrombotic Vasculopathy

Understanding the fundamental histopathology of chorionic villitis, intervillositis, and chorionic vascular thrombi, known as fetal thrombotic vasculopathy, can enable neonatologists to interpret placental pathology reports. In addition, such understanding helps them to provide parents with explanations about their infants’ conditions, short- and long-term prognoses, and risk factors for subsequent pathologies.
Reconnecting Proficiency, Literacy, and Culture: From Theory to Practice.

What does it mean to capably communicate across languages? This article introduces two theoretical models and a lesson plan format designed to facilitate the integration of profi ciency, literacy, and culture teaching in foreign language teaching. The Second Symbolic Competencies Model confi gures profi ciency and literacy as subordinate clusters of symbolic tools that fl ow from a cultural core. With regard to the literacy corner of the triad, the Composite Textual Comprehension Model focuses on the often neglected mistransference of learners' fi rst language and culture in interpreting second language texts. Both models fi nd congruence in the Sociocultural Model Lesson Plan.
Senior Management's Self-Interest in the Conduct of Mergers and Acquisitions: Actual Versus Stated Impacts and Moral Hazard Consequences

This paper examines the process of mergers and acquisitions from the combined perspectives of leadership and decision–making/moral hazards. In particular, we examine the roles and intentions of senior managers in M&A activities based on leadership theories, and then use this framework in evaluating the human resource impacts of mergers and acquisitions. Existing literature suggests disconnects between the espoused values and guiding principles of mergers and acquisitions with the actual impacts of these deals. More specifically, there are often clear gaps between pronouncements prior to M&A transactions and the subsequent reality in terms of financial returns, human resource impacts, market sh are effects, and industry realignment. This paper then applies this conceptual framework in reviewing two major M&A deals in differing industries. We also explore the moral hazard and decision traps of M&A transactions in regards to shareholder benefits, consumer benefits, and senior management compensation packages.
Dynamic Coverage Control with Limited Communication

In this paper we address the problem of dynamic coverage control of a convex polygonal region in the plane using N agents with bounded velocities and finite instantaneous area of coverage. The proposed coverage algorithm guarantees finite- time search of the region, does not depend on gradient-based methods, and can be carried out by the agents in a distributed fashion. We provide an upper bound on the completion time as well as the number of messages that need to be exchanged by the agents. A simulation is provided to illustrate the algorithm.
Representing smooth plane curves for recognition: implications for figure-ground reversal

A representation of smooth plane curves for recognition is proposed. The basic representation is a linked list of four primitive shapes, called "codons", which are invariant under rotations, translations and uniform scaling. Psychophysical observations regarding the perception of figureground reversals arc presented to suggest that a similar representation could be used by the human visual system.
Assessment of empathy in different years of internal medicine training

The operational measurement of physician empathy, as well as the question of whether empathy could change at different levels of medical education, is of interest to medical educators. To address this issue, 98 internal medicine residents from all 3 years of training were studied. The Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy was administered, and residents' empathy scores correlated with ratings on humanistic attributes made by postgraduate program directors. No statistically significant differences in scores were found among residents of different training levels. Empathy scores remained also stable during internship (test-retest reliability = 0.72). Correlation between empathy and ratings on humanism was 0.17. Thus, the findings suggest that empathy is a relatively stable trait that is not easily amenable to change in residency training programs. The issue of whether targeted educational activities for the purpose of cultivating empathy can improve empathy scores awaits empirical scrutiny.
A Review of Techniques for the Serologic Diagnosis of Equine Infectious Anemia

History and introduction This paper will review the current serologic tests to Equine infectious anemia (EIA) has been recognized diagnose infections with EIAV, discuss limitations of as an important viral disease of members of the horse the procedures, and suggest improvements based on family since its “filterable virus” etiology was proven early in the twentieth century. Only since the 1970s EIAV and the horse have we been able to diagnose infection with equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV) accurately with the use The EIAV is a member of the lentivirus subfamily of serodiagnostic methods. Early attempts to define of retroviruses and shares morphologic, antigenic, and specific diagnostic tools for EIA failed in part because genetic characters with the other lentiviruses. 17 The of a lack of suitable in vivo laboratory animal models major core protein of EIAV is a product of the viral and in vitro techniques for virus propagation, as well gag gene, 45 has a molecular weight of 26,000 daltons as the tendency of EIAV to undergo “antigenic drift.” (p26), 37 represents about 40% of the virion mass, The recognition of the highly mutable typeor subtypeand has group and interspecies antigenic determispecific antigens of EIAV which stimulated neutraliznants. 12,30,31 The major core protein appears to be highing antibodies suggested that a widely applicable diagly conserved between EIAV isolates, 44 and the imnostic test for the disease would not be forthcoming. munodominant regions of the protein have been Complement fixation and precipitin tests were tried elucidated. 4 Antibodies to the major core protein are but held little promise as accurate and/or practical didetected in the AGID test because the p26 antigen agnostics. 21,43 Horse inoculation tests were standardpredominates in antigen preparations. Occasional reized for the diagnosis of EIA, but were expensive, actions to the pl5 protein of EIAV have been noted wasteful of equine resources and required facilities in in the AGID test. 25,47
High-Performance Work Systems and Organizational Performance: The Mediating Role of Internal Social Structure:

This study provides a theoretical framework illustrating how the internal social structure of the organization can mediate the relationship between high-performance work systems (HPWS) and organizational performance. HPWS positively influence the internal social structure by facilitating bridging network ties, generalized norms of reciprocity, shared mental models, role making, and organizational citizenship behavior. Although HPWS are conceptualized as a system of human resource (HR) practices, each category ofHRpractices has a differential relationship with the mediating variables. HPWS lead to (a) financial performance via administrative efficiency and (b) sustainable performance via flexibility arising from the coordination and exploitation of knowledge resources.
Pros and cons of route reservation in static multi-hop networks

In this paper, we compare the performance of two possible switching techniques for ad hoc wireless networks: namely, reservation-based (RB) and non-reservation-based (NRB) switching. Fundamental network performance metrics, such as throughput and delay, are studied to understand the tradeoffs between the two switching schemes. In particular, we identify the circumstances where each of these two schemes is better than the other.
Laboratory Simulation of Mechanical Effects of Mountains on the General Circulation of the Northern Hemisphere: Uniform Shear Background Flow

Abstract The dimensionless governing equations and boundary conditions for the atmosphere are compared with those for a linearly stratified rotating dishpan laboratory experiment; by doing so a set of similarity criteria are determined. Model experiments on the effects of Greenland, the Rocky Mountains and Tibet on a uniform shear zonal flow in the Northern Hemisphere are presented. The laboratory model qualitatively simulates such semipermanent features of the Northern Hemisphere circulation as the Aleutian and Icelandic lows, the ridgesand troughs in the vicinity of the Rocky Mountains and Tibet and the shedding of the "southwest eddy" in the lee of Tibet. Although the background flow is steady, the large-scale disturbances caused by the mountains are unsteady and have an inherent periodicity equal to the time required for a fluid parcel to make a single 'circuit around the dishpan (globe). The strengths of the Aleutian and Icelandic lows, for example, oscillate with this Iiod; the lows are out of phase...
Manganese Doping of Monolayer MoS2: The Substrate Is Critical

Substitutional doping of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) may provide routes to achieving tunable p–n junctions, bandgaps, chemical sensitivity, and magnetism in these materials. In this study, we demonstrate in situ doping of monolayer molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) with manganese (Mn) via vapor phase deposition techniques. Successful incorporation of Mn in MoS2 leads to modifications of the band structure as evidenced by photoluminescence and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, but this is heavily dependent on the choice of substrate. We show that inert substrates (i.e., graphene) permit the incorporation of several percent Mn in MoS2, while substrates with reactive surface terminations (i.e., SiO2 and sapphire) preclude Mn incorporation and merely lead to defective MoS2. The results presented here demonstrate that tailoring the substrate surface could be the most significant factor in substitutional doping of TMDs with non-TMD elements.
"When We Talk About Compliance, It's Because We Lived It" Online Educators' Roles in Supporting Students with Disabilities

in online learning grows, so do concerns around the ways in which students with disabilities are served in virtual school programs, both full and part-time. At the crux of this struggle is the way in which federal and state laws (many of which were incepted before online learning existed or gained traction as an educational option) are interpreted by educators and translated into policies at the school level. Further, administrators, special education case managers, and teachers all interpret school level policies and answer to directives from a hierarchy of supervisors. The interpretations of these policies and the understandings educators use to guide their thinking have not been well-researched. In the present study, teachers, special education case managers, school level special education administrators, and regional directors were interviewed about their roles in developing, supporting, and implementing accommodations and other forms of support for students with disabilities in online courses. Findings from this work focus on the role conceptions of various types of educators in virtual schools and the tensions they experience as they work to support each other in positioning students with disabilities for success.
Tertiary Lymphoid Tissue Forms in Retinas of Mice with Spontaneous Autoimmune Uveitis and Has Consequences on Visual Function

During chronic inflammation, tertiary lymphoid tissue (TLT) can form within an inflamed organ, including the CNS. However, little is known about TLT formation in the neuroretina. In a novel spontaneous autoimmune mouse model of uveitis (R161H), we identified well-organized lymphoid aggregates in the retina and examined them for TLT characteristics. Presence of immune cells, tissue-specific markers, and gene expression patterns typically associated with germinal centers and T follicular helper cells were examined using immunohistochemistry and gene analysis of laser capture microdissected retina. Our data revealed the retinal lymphoid structures contained CD4 + T cells and B cells in well-defined zonal areas that expressed classic germinal center markers, peanut lectin (agglutinin) and GL-7. Gene expression analysis showed upregulation of T follicular helper cell markers, most notably CXCR5 and its ligand CXCL13, and immunohistochemical analysis confirmed CXCR5 expression, typically associated with CD4 + T follicular helper cells. Highly organized stromal cell networks, a hallmark of organized lymphoid tissue, were also present. Positive staining for phospho-Zap70 in retina-specific T cells indicated CD4 + T cells were being activated within these lymphoid structures. CD138 + /B220 + plasma cells were detected, suggesting the retinal lymphoid aggregates give rise to functional germinal centers, which produce Abs. Interestingly, eyes with lymphoid aggregates exhibited lower inflammatory scores by fundus examination and a slower initial rate of loss of visual function by electroretinography, compared with eyes without these structures. Our findings suggest that the lymphoid aggregates in the retina of R161H mice represent organized TLT, which impact the course of chronic uveitis.
Highly efficient recombinant production and purification of streptococcal cysteine protease streptopain with increased enzymatic activity

Streptococcus pyogenes produces the cysteine protease streptopain (SpeB) as a critical virulence factor for pathogenesis. Despite having first been described seventy years ago, this protease still holds mysteries which are being investigated today. Streptopain can cleave a wide range of human proteins, including immunoglobulins, the complement activation system, chemokines, and structural proteins. Due to the broad activity of streptopain, it has been challenging to elucidate the functional results of its action and precise mechanisms for its contribution to S. pyogenes pathogenesis. To better study streptopain, several expression and purification schemes have been developed. These methods originally involved isolation from S. pyogenes culture but were more recently expanded to include recombinant Escherichia coli expression systems. While substantially easier to implement, the latter recombinant approach can prove challenging to reproduce, often resulting in mostly insoluble protein and poor purification yields. After extensive optimization of a wide range of expression and purification conditions, we applied the autoinduction method of protein expression and developed a two-step column purification scheme that reliably produces large amounts of purified soluble and highly active streptopain. This method reproducibly yielded 3 mg of streptopain from 50 mL of expression culture at >95% purity, with an activity of 5306 ± 315 U/mg, and no remaining affinity tags or artifacts from recombinant expression. This improved method therefore enables the facile production of the important virulence factor streptopain at higher yields, with no purification scars that might bias functional studies, and with an 8.1-fold increased enzymatic activity compared to previously described procedures.
Cell detection in high frequency band small cell networks

In this paper, we investigate cell detection schemes for a new high frequency band (HFB) radio access technology (RAT) based small cell network, which employs much wider channel bandwidth (e.g. 100MHz∼2 GHz) than current LTE- Advanced systems, in order to provide Gbps-level throughput. Cell detection performances are compared in terms of expected coverage and detection overhead/latency at 28GHz channels. Furthermore, a novel UE polling based cell detection method, which exploits a higher beamforming gain and processing power at a base station, is proposed to guarantee robust coverage and fast cell detection in HFB small cell networks.
Vorticity and Vortex Models in Shock Accelerated Gas Inhomogeneities

Shock accelerated interfaces are of great fundamental interest in fluid mechanics. They are of significant importance to high speed combustion applications including supersonic combustion [1]. In addition, they have been attributed as a source of significant mixing in supernovae [2], and are one of the major obstacles in attaining positive-net-yield inertial confinement fusion [3].
Methods for high-dimensional multivariate and multi-group repeated measures data under non-normality

Asymptotic tests for multivariate repeated measures are derived under non-normality and unspecified dependence structure. Notwithstanding their broader scope of application, the methods are particularly useful when a random vector of large number of repeated measurements are collected from each subject but the number of subjects per treatment group is limited. In some experimental situations, replicating the experiment large number of times could be expensive or infeasible. Although taking large number of repeated measurements could be relatively cheaper, due to within subject dependence the number of parameters involved could get large pretty quickly. Under mild conditions on the persistence of the dependence, we have derived asymptotic multivariate tests for the three testing problems in repeated measures analysis. The simulation results provide evidence in favour of the accuracy of the approximations to the null distributions.
Improving The Efficiency of The Case-Crossover Design

The case-crossover design has been used by many researchers to study the transient effect of an exposure on the risk of a rare outcome. In a case-crossover design, only cases are sampled and each case will act as his/her own control. The time of failure acts as the case and non failure times act as the controls. Case-crossover designs have frequently been used to study the effect of environmental exposures on rare diseases or mortality. Time trends and seasonal confounding may be present in environmental studies and thus need to be controlled for by the sampling design. Several sampling methods are available for this purpose. In time-stratified sampling, disjoint strata of equal size are formed and the control times within the case stratum are used for comparison. The random semi-symmetric sampling design randomly selects a control time for comparison from two possible control times. The fixed semi-symmetric sampling design is a modified version of the random semi-symmetric sampling design that removes th...
Study on Separation and Purification Techniques of Fusarium Oxysporum in Sesame(Sesamum indicum L.)

To quickly and efficiently obtain pathogens of sesame wilt from the infected sesame plants,optimal methods of pathogen separation and purification were researched in this experiment.Results showed that Fusarium oxysporum f.sp.sesame(FOS) could be obtained more easily from the infected sesame plantlets with the dry sample isolation method,compared to the conventional direct isolation technique from fresh infected samples.The separation rate(92.7%) was 19.2 percentage points higher than that of the conventional separation method(73.5%).Furthermore,the spore suspension selection method could be used in monospore purification of FOS,as an alternative to the ordinary microscope selection method,for its simplicity and high purification efficiency.It indicated that the above new isolation and purification methods were optimal for FOS,especially adaptive for the massive infected sesame samples.
Cost Benefit Aspects in the Management of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

The costs for diagnosis and treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease have increased. This is due to the cost of highly sophisticated diagnostic equipment and the indiscriminate use of new therapeutic pharmacologic preparations. To improve cost effectiveness one would need an inexpensive, highly sensitive, and specific test to detect the disease, which is also able to predict the likelihood of medical therapy failure and, as a consequence, indicate the need for early surgical correction.
Insect herbivory is associated with microsite quality1

The nonrandom distribution of insect herbivory among plants is generally thought to reflect variation in plant-defense strategies and/or insect preferences for particular plant genotypes, where less-defended plants suffer the most damage. However, we postulated that aggregated distributions of herbivory may occur when (a) plants support greater herbivore densities under conditions with better resources (plant's choice), (b) plants with more nutrient-rich leaves are preferred more by herbivores (herbivore's choice), or (c) both, where plants living in better conditions can support more herbivores and have higher-quality leaves that herbivores also prefer. We tested these hypotheses using a population of black tupelo, Nyssa sylvatica Marshall (Cornales: Nyssaceae) and the tupelo leafminer, Antispila nysaefoliella Clemens (Lepidoptera: Heliozelidae). We found that the among-tree variation in herbivore density was positively associated with nutrient-cycling rate and not with leaf-nitrogen content, which supports the plant's choice hypothesis. Our results suggest that environmental conditions may have a more important role than host plant quality per se in determining the distribution of herbivores among trees.
CHAPTER 28 – Protease-Activated Receptors

G-protein-coupled receptors have evolved a variety of mechanisms to acquire information about the environment of a cell. They sense light, odorants, ions, lipids, nucleotides, amino acids and their derivatives, small peptides, polypeptides, and large glycoprotein hormones. This chapter describes a subfamily of heptahelical receptors known as protease-activated receptors (PARs), which have evolved to sense proteases. PAR1, the prototype for the PAR family, was identified in the context of an effort to understand how the coagulation protease thrombin activates platelets and other cells. Thrombin is a multifunctional serine protease generated at sites of tissue injury. In addition to cleaving fibrinogen, thrombin triggers a variety of cellular responses from platelet aggregation to endothelial display of adhesion molecules to fibroblast proliferation. These actions of thrombin raised the question of how a protease can function like a hormone to regulate cell behavior. PARs provide an answer. Recent studies suggest interesting roles for PARs in other cell types. For example, activation of endothelial PARs may help trigger recruitment of platelets and leukocytes in response to vascular injury. Activation of PARs on sensory neurons may contribute to neurogenic inflammation and edema and modulate sensitivity to painful stimuli. Like the role for PARs in hemostasis, these roles are consistent with the general view that PARs mediate cellular responses to tissue injury. Roles in other settings, such as blood vessel development during embryogenesis, are emerging.
High levels of rule-bending in a minimally religious and largely egalitarian forager population

Our species’ biological success is unsurpassed – an achievement largely accredited to our remarkable capacity to cooperate. Large-scale cooperation, however, remains a puzzle. Recent work suggests ...
Mechanical properties of nanostructured sapphire optical fiber (Conference Presentation)

Single crystal sapphire fiber is an excellent candidate for fiber-optic sensing in harsh environments owing to its superior optical, mechanical and thermal properties at elevated temperatures up to 1500oC. We have carried out an experimental and theoretical investigation on the mechanical properties of nanostructured sapphire optical fiber (NSOF) cladded with nanoporous anodized aluminum oxide (AAO). The threshold thickness beyond which the integrity of AAO cladding will be compromised due to tensile stress as growth of AAO extends radially outward is determined. Bending tests are conducted to explore relationship of NSOF mechanical properties with AAO porosity and thickness as parameters. Bending simulations using Finite Element Method will be compared with our experimental results. Parallel bending tests are conducted using AAO-clad silica fiber for comparison. Numerical and analytical simulations are also conducted to reveal the stress development during aluminum conversion to AAO on fiber geometry. The knowledge established on mechanical properties of NSOF will be of critical importance in its design, production, and utilization for a variety of demanding applications such as sensing for energy generation and energy production systems.
A retrospective review of cytogenetic studies on methyl isocyanate with special reference to the Bhopal gas tragedy: Is the next generation also at risk?

The world's worst industrial disaster, at Union Carbide, Bhopal, India, took place on 2-3 December 1984, leading to the leakage of poisonous methyl-isocyanate into the environment, causing thousands of deaths, pregnancy loss and for some, incapacitation for life. More than a quarter of a century later, the Indian Council of Medical Research undertook to redefine the abysmal consequences of the toxic gas exposure on the exposed population. This invigorated the interest of scientific community in the evaluation of the long-term effects, with reference to cytogenetic parameters. The thrust area was identified in terms of genetic disorders, low birth weight, developmental/growth disorders and congenital malformations. Also the impact on epigenetic factors, which may have contributed to variations in the functional expression of genes, was not negated, stimulating intense scientific research on in utero exposure and the progeny of the exposed population. To accomplish this mammoth task, molecular cytogenetic investigations must be undertaken in conjunction with conventional cytogenetics, using techniques such as FISH, Immuno-FISH, SKY and SNP analysis, to build up a cytogenetic database of the surviving population.
[13-OR]: Role of nitric oxide on blood pressure regulation in pregnant rats on a high-fat diet (HFD)

Objectives While obesity is a major risk factor for preeclampsia, the mechanisms whereby obesity increases this risk are unclear. Since blood pressure regulation during gestation relies greatly on the nitric oxide (NO) system, we aimed to determine the effects of a HFD on blood pressure, fetal outcomes, and endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) levels in pregnant rats. Methods Twelve-week-old Sprague-Dawley female rats were fed a normal diet (ND, 13% fat kcal, n = 5) or a HFD (40% fat kcal, n = 18) ad libitum. Body weight (BW) and total fat mass (FM) were recorded weekly. After 9 weeks of diet treatment, rats were allowed to breed. On gestation day (GD) 19, mean arterial pressure (MAP) was assessed and tissues were harvested. Results Initial BW and FM were similar in ND and HFD groups. On GD19, BW and FM were still similar in ND and HFD rats. There was a trend for MAP to be increased in HFD rats compared to ND rats (116.0 ± 2.7 vs. 106.6 ± 5.0 mmHg). Although HFD did not affected litter size (12.0 ± 1.0 vs. 13.0 ± 0.8 number of fetuses/rat), it reduced fetal weight (2.1 ± 0.0 vs. 2.2 ± 0.0g; P Conclusions While HFD had a detrimental effect on fetal weight, it had no effect on MAP. In addition, although HFD increases eNOS in mesenteric arteries, it seems that this pathway in not important for blood pressure control in HFD treated pregnant rats. Disclosures A.C. Palei: None. F.T. Spradley: None. J.P. Granger: None.
Temperament and Personality Development

Most discussions of temperament begin with Allport’s (1961) definition: Temperament refers to the characteristic phenomena of an individual’s emotional nature, including his susceptibility to emotional stimulation, his customary strength and speed of response, the quality of his prevailing mood and all the peculiarities of fluctuation and intensity of mood, these phenomena being regarded as dependent upon constitutional make-up and therefore largely hereditary in origin. (Allport, 1961, p. 34) Temperament is therefore a stable attribute of an individual. It involves aspects of the individual’s response to stimulation, and is biological in origin.
Catastrophe Geometry in Physics and Biology

In contrast to mathematics, the biological and human sciences are interested in life and the course it takes. If, up to now, these sciences are so little mathematized and remain inexact, this is because our imme- diate intuitive and qualitative comprehension of biological, social and economic facts is entirely sufficient to cope with the necessities of life. Even in the physical sciences an intuitive, phenomenological approach to complex problems generally is often superior to, and more effective than, precise quantitative methods and, indeed, is always at the root of new fundamental conceptions.
The Use of Focus Groups in Risk Communication

Over the last five years, risk communication has emerged as an important risk research issue. Recently, Covello, Slovic, and Von Winterfeldt [1987] have identified and summarized the most important risk communication issues. Chief among these was the need for empirical research on how to communicate risks effectively. An Environmental Protection Agency [1987] study, which noted the lack of such studies within the agency, reinforces this point. Because risk communication is becoming an important policy tool for government agencies to manage risks, the value of knowing more about communicating risks effectively is further enhanced.
(Im)possibility of negotiating peace: 2005‒2015 peace/reconciliation talks between the Turkish government and Kurdish politicians

ABSTRACTThe attempt by the Adalet ve Kalkinma Partisi (Justice and Development Party, AKP) to negotiate with the Partiya Karkeren Kurdistan (Kurdistan Workers’ Party, PKK)and Kurdish politicians wa...
Intensive Pharmacy Care Improves Outcomes of Hepatitis C Treatment in a Vulnerable Patient Population at a Safety-Net Hospital.

Treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) with direct-acting antiviral (DAA) regimens has resulted in high rates of sustained virologic response (SVR). Treatment of vulnerable populations may be improved by incorporating an on-site intensive specialty pharmacy (ON-ISP). To describe outcomes of HCV treatment at a safety-net hospital and proportion of subjects achieving SVR for those using the ON-ISP compared to an off-site pharmacy (OFF-SP). A retrospective cohort study of 219 subjects treated for HCV with DAA at Boston Medical Center was conducted. Subject characteristics, virologic response, and pharmacy services used were recorded. We used multivariable logistic regression to test the association between ON-ISP and SVR after adjusting for covariates. SVR occurred in 71% of subjects by intention-to-treat (73% among ON-ISP users vs 57% among OFF-SP users) and 95% completing treatment per-protocol (96% among ON-ISP users vs 87% among OFF-SP users). Adjustment for age, sex, ethnicity, insurance, fibrosis, prior treatment, and MELD revealed an increased likelihood of SVR among users of ON-ISP: OR 6.0 (95% CI 1.18–31.0). No significant difference in treatment delay or adverse events was seen among users of either pharmacy type. HCV treatment with DAA was well tolerated, but the rate of SVR was low (71%) compared to trials. This was due to loss to follow-up, as the per-protocol rate of SVR was much higher (95%). Use of ON-ISP was associated with an increase in SVR and may be valuable for improving care for vulnerable populations.
The relationship between speech recognition in noise and non-speech recognition in noise test performances: Implications for central auditory processing disorders testing.

Abstract Background According to the American Academy of Audiology, a recommendation for frequency-modulation systems may be based upon performances on speech perception tests that do not include background noise. Purpose The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate the presumption that non-speech recognition in noise test results are related to speech recognition in noise ability for a group of young adults. Research design Performances on the non-speech recognition in noise tests included in the SCAN-3:A test battery were compared to speech recognition in noise performances as measured with the auditory figure ground subtest of the SCAN-3:A and the Hearing in Noise Test. Study sample Fifty-four young, native speakers of American English with normal pure-tone thresholds participated in the study. Data collection and analysis For the purposes of this study, the SCAN-3:A raw scores were used. The Hearing in Noise Test was administered in a simulated soundfield environment under headphones. The Spearman rho statistic was used to determine the relationships between non-speech recognition in noise vs. speech recognition in noise test results. Results No significant relationships were found between the auditory figure-ground results and any of the non-speech recognition in noise subtest performances. Modest but statistically significant relationships were found between the Hearing in Noise Test Composite scores vs. the competing words-directed ear and the time compressed sentences subtests of the SCAN-3:A. Conclusion Of the four non-speech recognition in noise subtests that were evaluated, only the competing words-directed ear and the time-compressed sentences performances were significantly correlated to the Composite scores of the Hearing in Noise Test. The results demonstrated a limited external validity for two of the four non-SRN tests for the determination of SRN ability.
The Role of Attention and Memory in Search for Missing Persons

We examined the role of memory and attention in a simulated search for a missing person. Participants saw a mock missing person alert. We offered a cash prize for sightings. Participants encountered the missing person during a separate distractor study. We manipulated attention by having some participants pay attention to the missing person. We manipulated strategic monitoring, which involves being in retrieval mode and searching for cues, by covertly reminding some participants to search for the missing person, while they were near the missing person. We manipulated the presence of the missing person and found an effect, ruling out that we only inflated participants’ response bias. Drawing participants’ attention to the missing person minimally affected sightings, and only when strategic monitoring did not occur. Strategic monitoring had a larger effect on sightings but did not cause a ceiling effect, suggesting a role for face recognition and other factors in determining sighting rates.
An Initiative to Reduce Unnecessary Gadolinium-Based Contrast in Multiple Sclerosis Patients.

Abstract Objective Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) routinely undergo serial contrast-enhanced MRIs. Given concerns regarding tissue deposition of gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) and evidence that enhancement of lesions is only seen in patients with new disease activity on noncontrast imaging, we set out to implement a prospective quality improvement project whereby intravenous contrast would be reserved only for patients with evidence of new disease activity on noncontrast images. Methods To prospectively implement such a protocol, we leveraged our in-house computer-assisted detection (CAD) software and 3-D laboratory radiology technologists to perform real-time preliminary assessments of the CAD-processed T2 fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) noncontrast images as a basis for deciding whether to inject contrast. Before implementation, we held multidisciplinary meetings with neurology, neuroradiology, and MR technologists and distributed surveys to objectively assess opinions and obstacles to clinical implementation. We evaluated reduction in GBCA utilization and technologist performance relative to final neuroradiologist interpretations. Results During a 2-month trial period, 153 patients were imaged under the new protocol. Technologists using the CAD software were able to identify patients with new or enlarging lesions on FLAIR images with 95% accuracy and 97% negative predictive value relative to final neuroradiologist interpretations, which allowed us to avoid the use of contrast and additional imaging sequences in 87% of patients. Discussion A multidisciplinary effort to implement a quality improvement project to limit contrast in MS patients receiving follow-up MRIs allowed for improved safety and cost by targeting patients that would benefit from the use of intravenous contrast in real-time.
A Statewide Coalition’s Input in Human Trafficking Policy Implementation: Member Organizations’ Involvement and Perceptions

ABSTRACTDuring the last 10 years, many coalitions have been built at state and city levels in the U.S. to help implement anti-trafficking policies. Yet, sparse literature is available examining the...
Evolving polymersomes autonomously generated in and regulated by a semibatch pH oscillator.

A semibatch bromate–sulfite (B–S) pH oscillator is applied to drive the autonomous generation of polymersomes through polymerization induced self-assembly (pH-O-PISA) as a provider of radicals for polymerization of a hydrophobic monomer extending from a 2-sulfur hydrophilic macromolecular chain transfer agent (mCTA) to form an amphiphilic copolymer, and to regulate the morphological evolution of the self-assembled polymersomes.
reTessellate: Modular Dynamic Surfaces Reactive to Socio-Environmental Conditions

This paper presents the design, fabrication, and programming of a reconfigurable structure. The structure is comprised of modular, programable units, which can be stacked together, and collectively construct surfaces that shape-shifts in response to the surrounding physical and social conditions aiming at enhancing the link between occupants and the built environment.
Design Representations and Synthesis

Before describing each of the Workbench design tools in detail, it is important to understand both the conceptual and detailed models of design representation used by the tools. This chapter presents the Workbench’s models of design representation, and with this background, defines the synthesis steps implemented by the Workbench tools.
Novel Treatment Strategies in the Management of Waldenström Macroglobulinemia.

Recent advances the genomic profiling of patients with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia (WM) have led to the identification of novel therapeutic targets in these patients. In this review, we cover the current standard of care and the recently evaluated novel approaches with high potential to be incorporated in the therapeutic armamentarium against WM. The MYD88L265P mutation is the most common genomic abnormality in WM, and is encountered in 80–95% of patients, making it an important target for drug development. The success of the first-generation Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor, ibrutinib, has generated tremendous interest in the study of more selective and potent BTK inhibitors. Additionally, the identification of CXCR4WHIM mutations in up to approximately 40% of patients with WM has fueled research regarding their implication on systemic therapy in WM. In a rapidly advancing field of targeted therapies, the treatment options for patients with WM are expanding as researchers continue to uncover and harness the survival pathways active in this hematologic malignancy.
Rapid Design of Mechanical Logic Based on Quasi-Static Electromechanical Modeling

Mechanical logic is a class of dynamic electromechanical mechanisms which leverages carefully designed mechanical structures to generate programmed control actions from a constant electrical power supply; thus, it can be employed as a control method for fully printable autonomous robots. Composed of a bistable buckled beam driven by conductive super-coiled polymer (CSCP) actuators, this type of electromechanical system features non-trivial relationships between its design parameters and resulting behavioral characteristics. In this paper we present an efficient method to rapidly design mechanical logic structures from desired behavioral specifications. We describe this dynamic system with a simplified, quasi-static model, whose validity is verified by time constant comparison. An analytical formula of the mechanical logic’s behavioral characteristics, i.e. its oscillation period, is then derived as a simplified expression of the design parameters. Based on this expression, we formulate the design of mechanical logic from behavioral specifications into an optimization problem that maximizes the robustness to manufacturing tolerances, as demonstrated by an example case study.
Portable Perfusion Phantom Offers Quantitative Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Accurate Prostate Cancer Grade Stratification: A Pilot Study.

Rationale and Objectives The study goal was to test whether the improved accuracy in quantitative dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging measurement using a point-of-care portable perfusion phantom (P4) leads to better stratification of prostate cancer grade. Materials and Methods A prospective clinical study was conducted recruiting 44 patients scheduled for multi-parameter MRI prostate exams. All participants were imaged with the P4 placed under their pelvic regions. Tissue sampling was carried out for 25 patients at 22 ± 18 (mean ± SD) days after multi-parameter MRI. On histologic examination, a total of 31 lesions were confirmed as prostate cancer. Tumors were classified into low grade (n = 14), intermediate grade (n = 10), and high grade (n = 7). Tumor perfusion was assessed by volume transfer constant, Ktrans, before and after P4-based error correction, and the Ktrans of low, intermediate and high-grade tumors were statistically compared. Results After P4-based error correction, the Ktrans of low, intermediate, and high-grade tumors were 0.109 ± 0.026 min−1 (95% CI: 0.0094 to 0.124 min−1), 0.163 ± 0.049 min−1 (95% CI: 0.129 to 0.198 min−1) and 0.356 ± 0.156 min−1 (95% CI: 0.215 to 0.495 min−1), respectively, with statistically significant difference among the groups (low vs intermediate: p = 0.002; intermediate vs high: p = 0.002; low vs high: p Conclusion The P4 allows to reduce errors in quantitative dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging measurement, enhancing accuracy in stratification of prostate cancer grade.
Influence of Director Expertise on Capital Structure and Cash Holdings in High-Tech Firms

Abstract Many “High-Tech” firms enjoy high market valuations despite negative earnings and low cash flows due in part to what many see as future bountiful earnings and cash flows, which is a cause for concern. How can corporate governance help? Do well-informed boards assist corporate success through better governance through their influence on financial policy: Capital Structure and Cash Holdings? We test these effects in “High-Tech firms” by segmenting firms into four levels based on technology intensity. We examine differences in board composition and the resultant influence on capital structure. Our fourteen-year sample period includes post-dotcom bubble years and post-Sarbanes-Oxley, which mandated the inclusion of financial experts on corporate boards. We defined two types of firm designated well-informed boards as a result of this analysis. We contribute to the literature in many ways. Using regression analysis and graph theory techniques, we found the educational makeup of high-tech firms to be significantly different from low-tech firms and that they approached capital structure with caution. Low-tech firms rely on board member network connectivity and agency theory's explicative powers.
Financial Friction and Gains (Losses) from Trade

How does financial friction influence gains from trade? To answer this question, this paper develops a general equilibrium model of international trade with cross-country financial friction heterogeneity, as the source of comparative advantage. Although product markets are competitive, production of firms in finance-dependent sectors of a closed economy is supported by a markup over marginal cost, so that a higher profit prevents firms from strategically defaulting on loans. Trade liberalization reduces the price of the finance-dependent good, which benefits the consumers; however, economic rents of producing finance-dependent goods flow out to the financially less-frictional economy, which is welfare-reducing. In sum, gains/losses from trade is determined by the financing friction severity of the partner country. We test the empirical predictions of the model. In particular, while we show that financial development matters for the growth of finance-dependent industries in open economies, we do not find such an evidence for closed economies.
Is ignorance bliss? The relationship between news exposure and anxiety levels in adults

News exposure has yet to be studied as a daily hassle contributing to anxiety. This study aimed to (1) establish if a relationship between news exposure and anxiety levels exists, (2) evaluate whether anxiety levels change over time in relation to news exposure, and (3) establish if emotion regulation moderates these relationships. Participants reported their news exposure, psychological symptoms, intolerance of uncertainty, psychological flexibility, and perseverative thinking. Five hundred and two participants were in the initial sample, followed by 304 in Wave 2 and 305 in Wave 3. About half of the participants were daily consumers of news. Controlling for age, there was no direct correlation between news exposure and anxiety levels concurrently or prospectively. Participants’ access to news did not significantly differ between waves. Wave 1 news-related variables did not predict anxiety at Wave 1 or 2. Overall, participants who experienced greater enjoyment from the news were less stressed and had greater psychological flexibility. Prospectively, they were less likely to be depressed, controlling for initial levels. Greater exposure and less news enjoyment predicted more intolerance of uncertainty prospectively. Overall, those who reported high levels of depression reported lower levels of engagement and enjoyment from the news while having higher intolerance of uncertainty, perseverative thinking, and less psychological flexibility. Although our findings did not support our hypothesis about anxiety, news exposure and level of enjoyment from news predicted other areas of psychological distress. This indicates a need for more nuanced research on the relationship between news exposure and mental health outcomes.