cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Path of the Law and Its Influence: Holmes on the Logic of the Law

Throughout his long career, Holmes seemed to be waging a campaign against something he called "logic" in legal theory, in the name of (descriptively) "experience," and (prescriptively) instrumental reason. What was legal logic to him, and what (and how much) did he have against it? The question remains pertinent, because unphilosophical lawyers still speak of logic in roughly the way Holmes did, and are often chided for it by philosophically sophisticated critics, for whom logic is no more than the study of formally valid inference. Thus conceived, it cannot come into conflict with the unreflectively experiential or explicitly functional modes of legal reasoning to which Holmes and his successors have contrasted it. Holmes (like most lawyers today) conceived legal logic in a colloquially familiar way, as reasoning driven by a concern for consistency rather than for results. He was the most influential critic of the view that a legal system could or should reach all its judgments by deduction from a coherent system of abstract and yet precise general principles, on the model of Euclidean geometry. In his own day, both German Pandectist and American Langdellian legal science proclaimed this ideal, which Holmes thought both impossible to achieve and pernicious to pursue. However, he thought law should be very largely driven by logic, in three more limited senses. First, most individual legal judgments should be reached by deduction, the application of a clear rule to objectively ascertainable facts. Second, the effort to formulate the law into a coherent system of general principles was worthwhile, though the principles served as classifiers and presumptions rather than as axioms. Finally, reasoning by analogy, driven by the search for local (as distinguished from system-wide) consistency, was often an appropriate alternative to instrumental or "legislative" reasoning in the decision of legal questions that rules left undetermined. Holmes was, in our terms, a skeptic neither of rules, nor of principles, nor of reasoning by analogy, and to the extent he has been enlisted in support of any or all of those forms of legal skepticism, what he said has been misunderstood.
Constitutive and Overexpressed Human Cytosolic Class-3 Aldehyde Dehydrogenases in Normal and Neoplastic Cells/Secretions

Cytosolic class-3 aldehyde dehydrogenases have been the subject of extensive investigation in recent years because they are demonstrated determinants of cellular sensitivity to certain widely used anticancer drugs, namely, cyclophosphamide, ifosfamide, 4-hydroperoxycyclophosphamide and mafosfamide (cellular sensitivity to these drugs decreases as the cellular concentration of cytosolic class-3 aldehyde dehydrogenase increases) [Bunting and Townsend, 1993; Sreerama and Sladek, 1993a,b, 1994a; Rekha et al., 1994; Sreerama et al., 1994a], and because they may aid in protecting cells by catalyzing the detoxification of otherwise toxic aldehydes arising from lipid peroxidation therein [reviewed in Lindahl, 1992]. Moreover, it has been proposed that corneal cytosolic class-3 aldehyde dehydrogenase protects the eye against UV-B lightinduced damage, in part, by directly absorbing it [Downes et al., 1994 and references cited therein]. Of particular interest, for obvious reasons, is the regulation of their expression, particularly as such regulation is influenced by environmental, dietary and therapeutic agents.
Determinants of the CNY/USD exchange rate: a simultaneous-equation model

Applying the generalised autoregressive conditional heteroscedasticity (GARCH) model and using a sample during 2005.Q3-2014.Q1, this paper finds that the CNY/USD exchange rate is positively associated with the US interest rate, the US stock price and the inflation rate differential (China's inflation rate minus the US inflation rate) and negatively affected by China's interest rate, US real gross domestic product (GDP), and China's stock price. The coefficient of real GDP in China is positive but insignificant.
X-ray Topography

A review of the technique of White Beam Synchrotron X-ray Topography is presented along with some examples of its applications in materials science. Among the topics covered are: the characterization of growth defects in KTiOPO4, ZnTe, and SiC single crystals; studies of phase transitions in perovskite-like crystals; and studies of rapid thermal processing damage in semiconductors. Methodologies for analyzing dislocations, twins (rotational, mirror and inversion twins), precipitates and other crystallographic defects, will be reviewed.
Nontarget Noctuids Complicate Integrated Pest Management Monitoring of Sweet Corn with Pheromone Traps in Massachusetts

Several nontarget species of noctuids were captured in pheromone traps used to monitor corn ear worm, Helicoverpa zea (Boddie); fall army worm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith); and army worm, Pseudaletia unipuncta (Haworth) for sweet corn integrated pest management in Massachusetts. Captures of two Leucania species, in particular, have increased monitoring time, possibly distorted target catches, and complicated the transfer of monitoring activities to growers.
An Electrophoretic Survey of Esterases, Phosphatases, And Leucine Aminopeptidases in Mycelial Extracts of Species of Aspergillus

Biochemical systematics has provided additional criteria for characterizing taxa already defined by conventional morphological, geographical, ecological, and cytological observations. Paper chromatography has been used for the rapid, efficient separation of relatively small molecules (Alston and Turner, 1963) and zone electrophoresis for relatively large molecules, such as proteins or enzymes (Leone, 1964), to detect meaningful differences or similarities among species within a genus. Clare (1963) separated soluble proteins in mycelial extracts of species of the fungal genus Pythium by zone electrophoresis and obtained patterns which appeared to characterize each species. Meyer et al. (1964) used culture filtrates of strains from 2 species of the fungal genus Fusarium to obtain esterase and phosphatase zymograms. Their reports suggested that zone electrophoresis might provide a useful tool in fungal taxonomy. Raper and Fennell (1965) recently published an extensive revision of the fungal genus Aspergillus. The numerous and apparently well defined species assigned to different groups in this genus offered suitable material to determine whether zymograms might provide an additional method to distinguish species. This report presents the results of a preliminary survey of leucine aminopeptidases, esterases, and phosphatases in mycelial extracts of 15 species of Aspergillus which were detected in starch gels after zone electrophoresis.
Approximate Bayesian Estimation for Multivariate Count Time Series Models

In many areas of application, there is increasing interest in modeling multivariate time series of counts on several subjects as a function of subject-specific and time-dependent covariates. We propose a level correlated model (LCM) to account for the association among the components of the response vector, as well as possible overdispersion. The flexible LCM framework allows us to combine different marginal count distributions and to build a hierarchical model for the vector time series of counts. We employ the Integrated Nested Laplace Approximation (INLA) for fast approximate Bayesian modeling using the R package INLA (r-inla.org). We illustrate it by modeling the monthly prescription counts by physicians of a focal drug from a multinational pharmaceutical firm along with monthly counts of other drugs with a sizable market share for the same therapeutic category.
Implementation of Salmonella serotype determination using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis in a state public health laboratory

We examined the use of pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) to predict serotype for Salmonella isolates. Between 2012 and 2014 we assessed 4481 isolates, resulting in >90% assigned serotypes. PFGE is efficient for determining serotype in the majority of cases and results in expedited serotype determination, as well as cost savings.
An analysis on incidence and trend of colorectal cancer in Songjiang district,Shanghai

[Objective] To investigate the incidence and trend of colorectal cancer in Songjiang district from 1988 to 2002. [Methods] The data of colorectal cancer cases were collected from the tumor register system from 1988 to 2002.The incidence,time trend,population and regional distribution of colorectal cancer were analyzed. [Results] The average incidence of colorectal cancer was 18.54/105 per year,accounting for 9.24% of the total tumors,and ranked the third of all cancers.The incidence of colorectal cancer in both sex increased with age,especially in groups over 45 years of age.The incidence of colorectal cancer in male was higher than that in female.Regional analysis showed that the incidence of colorectal cancer was the highest in the city,the countryside in rural ranked the second,and was the lowest in the county. [Conclusion] The incidence trend of colorectal cancer is rising.Countermeasures to prevent the colorectal cancer according to the risk factors should be given.
Alterations of Phosphodiesterases in Adrenocortical Tumors

Alterations in the cyclic (c) AMP-dependent signaling pathway have been implicated in the majority of benign adrenocortical tumors (ACTs) causing Cushing syndrome (CS). Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) are enzymes that regulate cyclic nucleotide levels, including cAMP. Inactivating mutations and other functional variants in PDE11A and PDE8B, two cAMP-binding PDEs, predispose to ACTs. The involvement of these two genes in ACTs was initially revealed by a genome-wide association study in patients with micronodular bilateral adrenocortical hyperplasia. Thereafter, PDE11A or PDE8B genetic variants have been found in other ACTs, including macronodular adrenocortical hyperplasias and cortisol-producing adenomas. In addition, down-regulation of PDE11A expression and inactivating variants of the gene have been found in hereditary and sporadic testicular germ cell tumors, as well as in prostatic cancer. PDEs confer an increased risk of ACT formation probably through, primarily, their action on cAMP levels, but other actions might be possible. In this report, we review what is known to date about PDE11A and PDE8B and their involvement in the predisposition to ACTs.
Separation of Blood Serum Proteins by Ultrafiltration

The majority of human blood serum (non lipo-) proteins exists in only three discrete sizes: roughly 70 percent are of the size of serum albumin, with a molecular weight around 70,000 (sedimentation coefficient 4 S); some 25 percent, the globulins, have a molecular weight of 160,000 (7 S); and about 5 percent, the macroglobulins, have a molecular weight of 860,000 (19 S)(1).
Voluntary cardiorespiratory synchronization: heart rate variability as a function of age, tidal volume and body position

A technique of voluntary cardiorespiratory synchronization (VCRS), where the respiration rate is synchronized at a sub-multiple of the heart rate (1:5), was used to investigate heart rate variability (HRV) in 14 subjects as a function of age, body position, and respiratory tidal volumes of 500 ml and 1000 ml. Following a tone, the subjects inspired for two heart beats and expired for three beats. Subjects were grouped according to age into two groups (20 to 30 and 46 to 57). The results showed no statistically significant change with tidal volume but a significant decrease in HRV with age. Changing from sitting to supine showed a slight increase in HRV for the younger group whereas the older group showed a decrease. Because a constant phase relationship between respiration and the heart beats is maintained, VCRS is an easy to use method to measure the influence of each phase of the respiratory cycle on the HR and blood pressure due to the mechanical action of respiration.
Kerio Valley, 1973-2013: a case study of Kenyan smallholder agriculture

ABSTRACTThis article examines changes during the last 40 years in a smallholder irrigation-farming community in Elgeyo-Marakwet County, Kenya. Agricultural productivity has increased thanks to improved seeds and the practice of adding manure and crop residues to fields, a very rare occurrence in the 1970s. People’s range of assets, housing conditions and communications have also improved. Development agencies have had limited impact on these developments, particularly in comparison with their ambitious plans for a radical transformation of the study area. Increased yields and improved living conditions are attributed to local initiatives rather than to external interventions.
Substance Use in Undergraduate Students With Histories of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): The Role of Impulsivity.

Background: Emerging adulthood (18–25 years old) is regarded as a time of identity exploration that includes a peak in risky behaviors, such as substance use and misuse. Attention-deficit/hyperacti...
DanceSafe and ecstasy: protection or promotion?

Since dangerous additives to the drug ecstasy can cause potentially lethal hyperthermia, the organization DanceSafe tests ecstasy for such adulterants. This study of over 700 college students examined whether individuals will use or abstain from ecstasy regardless of DanceSafe's presence at raves or whether DanceSafe erodes a powerful deterrent (i.e., the fear of hazardous additives) which may make nonusers more likely to try it. About 1/5 of nonusers said they might be more likely to try ecstasy if DanceSafe were present. In comparison to nonusers who plan to abstain, however, they were also more likely to be cigarette smokers, drink and use marijuana regularly at parties, and have more friends who use ecstasy. Further study of DanceSafe's impact on ecstasy use is warranted.
Copper-Catalyzed Borylacylation of Activated Alkenes with Acid Chlorides

A method for Cu-catalyzed borylacylation of activated alkenes is presented. The reaction involves the borylcupration of the alkene followed by capture of the generated alkyl-Cu intermediate with an acid chloride. The reactions operate with low catalyst loading and generally occur within 15 min at room temperature for a range of activated alkenes. In the case of vinyl arenes, enantioselective borylacylation can be carried out.
Beyond the Information Age: The Duty of Technology Competence in the Algorithmic Society

While law has generally been slow to adapt to technological change, the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct amended the Duty of Competence language to include a Duty of Technology Competence. This duty requires lawyers to keep abreast of “changes in the law and its practice, including the benefits and risks associated with relevant technology.” A majority of states have now adopted this new Duty of Technology Competence, but there is little guidance on its current reach. The guidance documents mainly discuss the duty in terms of eDiscovery, electronic storage, social media, and the cloud. As society moves beyond the Information Age to the Algorithmic Society, this duty should extend to the competent use of artificial intelligence and algorithms in law. As such, it behooves the legal academy to prepare lawyers for ethical practice in this brave new world.
Addressing Sustainable Technologies in Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering

Geotechnical and geoenvironmental engineering, which constitutes one of the major tasks of the infrastructure and construction projects, is one of the main contributors to the climate change and other global environmental impacts, due to the use of large amounts of materials and energy. One of the most effective ways to address these challenges is to have the environmental implications integrated into the decisions of a geotechnical/geoenvironmental project. In this regard, the application of life cycle assessment (LCA) has gained major impetus to evaluate the environmental sustainability of such projects. LCA is a comprehensive method for assessing a range of environmental impacts across the full life cycle of a geotechnical and geoenvironmental project, from raw material acquisition, material manufacturing and transport, construction, use and maintenance, and final disposal/recycling. LCA can be challenging due to limited reliable or relevant inventory of data for the assessment. However, it is a systematic and well-accepted tool to develop/design environmentally sustainable geotechnical and geoenvironmental projects. In addition, a triple bottom line assessment which further involves evaluating the economic and social sustainability aspects of the project along with the LCA is essential to holistically evaluate and identify the effectiveness of a geotechnical and geoenvironmental project toward sustainability. This paper presents a review of few studies that demonstrate the application of LCA and triple bottom line assessment to some of the common geotechnical and geoenvironmental projects. The study underscores the importance of LCA in identifying the critical materials and/or operations for the resulting environmental impacts and helps explore different options to improve the net environmental and socioeconomic benefits.
Melatonin Regulation of Circadian Rhythmicity in Vertebrates

The pineal hormone, melatonin, influences circadian rhythms in a species-specific manner. Generally, endogenous melatonin is more important for circadian function in nonmammalian vertebrates, whereas in mammals the impact of melatonin is most clearly seen when exogenous melatonin is administered. The effects of melatonin on circadian rhythms in mammals are often subtle. In humans, inconsistency in the effects of melatonin has been reported, and this may be due in part to inconsistency in timing and dose. Rodent studies to identify molecular mechanisms of melatonin action emphasize the role of the MT1 receptor, but some responses appear due to the MT2 receptor subtype. Â© 2009 Elsevier Ltd All rights reserved.
Lipid Nanoparticle-Delivered Chemically Modified mRNA Restores Chloride Secretion in Cystic Fibrosis

The promise of gene therapy for the treatment of cystic fibrosis has yet to be fully clinically realized despite years of effort toward correcting the underlying genetic defect in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). mRNA therapy via nanoparticle delivery represents a powerful technology for the transfer of genetic material to cells with large, widespread populations, such as airway epithelia. We deployed a clinically relevant lipid-based nanoparticle (LNP) for packaging and delivery of large chemically modified CFTR mRNA (cmCFTR) to patient-derived bronchial epithelial cells, resulting in an increase in membrane-localized CFTR and rescue of its primary function as a chloride channel. Furthermore, nasal application of LNP-cmCFTR restored CFTR-mediated chloride secretion to conductive airway epithelia in CFTR knockout mice for at least 14 days. On day 3 post-transfection, CFTR activity peaked, recovering up to 55% of the net chloride efflux characteristic of healthy mice. This magnitude of response is superior to liposomal CFTR DNA delivery and is comparable with outcomes observed in the currently approved drug ivacaftor. LNP-cmRNA-based systems represent a powerful platform technology for correction of cystic fibrosis and other monogenic disorders.
Human Centered Syllabus Design: Positioning Our Students As Expert End-Users

Abstract This study examines how the layout of syllabi in first-year writing courses can aid or obscure content that is key to student success. Understanding the function of a syllabus as a charter document in a genre ecology helps to underscore the importance of the syllabus as a regulatory document that can have a significant impact for students. This study makes the case for considering students as expert end-users that have valuable knowledge useful to composition programs interested in redesigning first-year writing course syllabi using a human-centered design approach.
Pharmacological Characters of Oliceridine, a μ-Opioid Receptor G-Protein-Biased Ligand in Mice.

BACKGROUND:A major advancement in the field of analgesic pharmacology has been the development of G-protein–biased opioid agonists that display less respiratory depression than conventional drugs. It is uncertain, however, whether these new drugs cause less tolerance, hyperalgesia, and other maladap
Trends in Medicare reimbursement for neurosurgical procedures: 2000 to 2018.

Objective There is currently a paucity of literature evaluating procedural reimbursements and financial trends in neurosurgery. A comprehensive understanding of the economic trends and financial health of neurosurgery is important to ensure the sustained success and growth of the specialty moving forward. The purpose of this study was to evaluate monetary trends of the 10 most common spinal and cranial neurosurgical procedures in Medicare reimbursement rates from 2000 to 2018. Methods The Physician Fee Schedule Look-Up Tool from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services was queried for each of the top 10 most utilized Current Procedural Terminology codes in both spinal and cranial neurosurgery, and comprehensive reimbursement data were extracted. The raw percent change in Medicare reimbursement rate from 2000 to 2018 was calculated for each procedure and averaged. This was then compared to the percent change in consumer price index over the same time. Using data adjusted for inflation, trend analysis was performed for all included procedures. Adjusted R-squared and both the average annual and the total percent change in reimbursement were calculated based on these adjusted trends for all included procedures. Likewise, the compound annual growth rate was calculated for all procedures. Results When all reimbursement data were adjusted for inflation, the average reimbursement for all procedures decreased by an average of 25.80% from 2000 to 2018. From 2000 to 2018, the adjusted reimbursement rate for all included procedures decreased by an average of 1.59% each year and experienced an average compound annual growth rate of -1.66%, indicating a steady annual decline in reimbursement when adjusted for inflation. Conclusions This is the first study to evaluate comprehensive trends in Medicare reimbursement in neurosurgery. When adjusted for inflation, Medicare reimbursement for all included procedures has steadily decreased from 2000 to 2018, with similar rates of decline observed between cranial and spinal neurosurgery procedures. Increased awareness and consideration of these trends will be important moving forward for policy makers, hospitals, and neurosurgeons as continued progress is made to advance agreeable reimbursement models that allow for the sustained growth of neurosurgery in the United States.
The association of financial incentives for low density lipoprotein cholesterol reduction with patient activation and motivation.

Abstract There is growing interest in using financial incentives for patients to improve medication adherence, but few studies have evaluated whether financial incentives are associated with patients' activation and motivation. We analyzed survey data collected as part of a randomized clinical trial conducted from 2011 to 2014 of four financial incentive interventions to reduce low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) among patients at risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The main trial included 1503 patients aged 18–80 and recruited from primary care practices affiliated with three health systems. Participants were randomized into four groups: patient financial incentives, primary care physicians (PCPs) incentives, patients and PCPs shared incentives, or no incentives for LDL-C control. Patient Activation Measure (PAM) and Treatment Self Regulation Questionnaire (TSRQ) surveys were administered at baseline and 12 months. Clinical outcomes were change in LDL-C at 12 and 15 months and average medication adherence as measured by electronic pill bottle opening. Mean changes in PAM and TSRQ scores were compared between patients eligible and not eligible for incentives. Clinical outcomes were tested against baseline and change in psychosocial measures using bivariate and multivariate regression. Change in PAM score and TSRQ autonomous subscore did not differ significantly between patients eligible and not eligible for incentives. Lower baseline and greater increase in TSRQ autonomous subscore were predictive of greater 15-month decrease in LDL-C. A financial incentive intervention to improve LDL-C control was not associated with changes in patients' activation or autonomous motivation. Increases in patient autonomous motivation are predictive of long-term LDL-C control.
Structural determination of the complement inhibitory domain of Borrelia burgdorferi BBK32 provides insight into classical pathway complement evasion by Lyme disease spirochetes

The carboxy-terminal domain of the BBK32 protein from Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto, termed BBK32-C, binds and inhibits the initiating serine protease of the human classical complement pathway, C1r. In this study we investigated the function of BBK32 orthologues of the Lyme-associated Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato complex, designated BAD16 from B. afzelii strain PGau and BGD19 from B. garinii strain IP90. Our data show that B. afzelii BAD16-C exhibits BBK32-C-like activities in all assays tested, including high-affinity binding to purified C1r protease and C1 complex, and potent inhibition of the classical complement pathway. Recombinant B. garinii BGD19-C also bound C1 and C1r with high-affinity yet exhibited significantly reduced in vitro complement inhibitory activities relative to BBK32-C or BAD16-C. Interestingly, natively produced BGD19 weakly recognized C1r relative to BBK32 and BAD16 and, unlike these proteins, BGD19 did not confer significant protection from serum killing. Site-directed mutagenesis was performed to convert BBK32-C to resemble BGD19-C at three residue positions that are identical between BBK32 and BAD16 but different in BGD19. The resulting chimeric protein was designated BXK32-C and this BBK32-C variant mimicked the properties observed for BGD19-C. To query the disparate complement inhibitory activities of BBK32 orthologues, the crystal structure of BBK32-C was solved to 1.7A limiting resolution. BBK32-C adopts an anti-parallel four-helix bundle fold with a fifth alpha-helix protruding from the helical core. The structure revealed that the three residues targeted in the BXK32-C chimera are surface-exposed, further supporting their potential relevance in C1r binding and inhibition. Additional binding assays showed that BBK32-C only recognized C1r fragments containing the serine protease domain. The structure-function studies reported here improve our understanding of how BBK32 recognizes and inhibits C1r and provide new insight into complement evasion mechanisms of Lyme-associated spirochetes of the B. burgdorferi sensu lato complex.
Genotypes and Genomic Regions Associated With Rhizoctonia solani Resistance in Common Bean.

Rhizoctonia solani Kuhn (teleomorph Thanatephorus cucumeris) is an important root rot pathogen of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). To uncover genetic factors associated with resistance to the pathogen, the Andean (ADP; n=273) and Middle American (MDP; n=279) diversity panels, which represent much of the genetic diversity known in cultivated common bean, were screened in the greenhouse using R. solani anastomosis group 2-2. Repeatability of the assay was confirmed by the response of five control genotypes. The phenotypic data for both panels were normally distributed. The resistance responses of ~10% of the ADP (n=28) and ~6% of the MDP (n=18) genotypes were similar or higher than that of the resistant control line VAX 3. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) was performed using ~200k single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to discover genomic regions associated with resistance in each panel, For GWAS, the raw phenotypic score, and polynomial and binary transformation of the scores, were individually used as the input data. A major QTL peak was observed on Pv02 in the ADP, while a major QTL was observed on Pv01 with the MDP. These regions were associated with clusters of TIR-NB_ARC-LRR (TNL) gene models encoding proteins similar to known disease resistance genes. Other QTL, unique to each panel, were mapped within or adjacent to a gene model or cluster of related genes associated with disease resistance. This is a first case study that provides evidence for major as well as minor genes involved in resistance to R. solani in common bean. This information will be useful to integrate more durable root rot resistance in common bean breeding programs and to study the genetic mechanisms associated with root diseases in this important societal legume.
Physical Activity Support Predicts Safety-Net Patients' Digital Health-Care Engagement: Implications for Patient Care Delivery.

Purpose:Assess relationship among health services received and patients’ digital health-care engagement.Design:Quantitative cross-sectional survey study.Setting:Community health centers in Washingt...
Living to work: The role of occupational calling in response to challenge and hindrance stressors

The present study examined how occupational calling affects the relationships between challenge and hindrance stressors, work motivation, and mental health symptoms. Individuals experience the pres...
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension in confirmed case of cutaneous-hemolytic loxoscelism.

A 10-year-old girl with cystic fibrosis presented with two days of abdominal pain, vomiting, fever, and rash. Examination showed diffuse erythema and a wound on her back (Figure 1). Figure 1. Cutan...
Given a choice between self-sampling at home for HPV testing and standard of care screening at the clinic, what do African American women choose? Findings from a group randomized controlled trial.

Abstract The goals of this study were to: (1) evaluate adherence to cervical cancer screening using a patient-centered approach that provided a choice of self-sampling at home for human papillomavirus (HPV) testing or standard of care screening at the local health department (‘Choice’) versus only standard of care screening at the local health department (‘SCS’) among un/under-screened African-American women; and (2) examine whether women given a choice were more likely to choose and adhere to self-sampling for HPV testing. We conducted a group randomized trial among un/under-screened African-American women in the Mississippi Delta, with “town” as the unit of randomization (12 towns). Both interventions (i.e., ‘Choice’ versus ‘SCS’) were delivered by Community Health Workers (CHWs) through a door-to-door approach. A total of 335 women were enrolled in the study from 2016 to 2019. The ‘Choice’ arm had a significantly (p = 0.005) higher adherence to screening compared to the ‘SCS’ arm after adjusting for the cluster effect and other relevant behavioral variables. Participants in the ‘Choice’ arm were 5.62 (95% CI 1.71–18.44) times more likely to adhere to cervical cancer screening compared to participants in the ‘SCS’ arm. Women in the ‘Choice’ arm were significantly more likely to choose (76%) and adhere to self-sampling at home for HPV testing (48% adherence) compared to standard of care screening at the local health department (7.5% adherence). A theory-driven, CHW-led intervention can effectively promote cervical cancer screening among un/under-screened African-American women in a rural setting when women are provided with a choice between two screening modalities. Clinical Trials Registration: NCT03713710
Cold storage of platelets in platelet additive solution maintains mitochondrial integrity by limiting initiation of apoptosis-mediated pathways.

Background Cold storage of platelets in plasma maintains hemostatic function and is an attractive alternative to room temperature platelets (RTPs). We have recently shown that functional differences between cold-stored platelets (CSPs) and RTPs after 5-day storage are associated with mitochondrial respiration and that CSPs in platelet (PLT) additive solution (PAS) can maintain hemostatic function for at least 15 days. Study design and methods This study tested the hypothesis that cold storage in PAS preserves mitochondrial integrity by reducing PLT apoptosis. CSPs and RTPs in plasma or PAS were stored and assayed for up to 15 days for mitochondrial function and integrity, mitochondrial-associated mRNA transcript expression, apoptotic proteins, and apoptotic flow cytometry metrics. Results CSP preserved mitochondria-associated mRNA comparable to baseline levels, improved mitochondrial respiration, and minimized depolarization to Day 15. Additionally, CSPs had minimal induction of caspases, preservation of plasma membrane integrity, and low expression of pro-apoptotic Bax. Storage in PAS appeared to be protective for RTPs in some parameters and enhanced the effects of CSPs. Conclusion Mitochondrial function and molecular analyses defined CSP priming as distinctly different from the well-documented RTP storage lesion. While current blood bank storage at room temperature is limited to 5 to 7 days, refrigeration and storage in PAS for up to 15 days may represent an opportunity to enhance inventories and access to PLT hemostatic support for bleeding patients.
Zooming into Focus Groups: Strategies for Qualitative Research in the Era of Social Distancing

Qualitative research methods are important and have become increasingly prominent in medical education and research. The reason is simple: many pressing questions in these fields require qualitative approaches to elicit nuanced insights and additional meaning beyond standard quantitative measurements in surveys or observatons. Among the most common qualitative data collection methods are structured or semistructured in-person interviews and focus groups, in which participants describe their experiences relevant to the research question at hand. In the era of physical and social distancing because of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, little guidance exists for strategies for conducting focus groups or semistructured interviews. Here we describe our experience with, and recommendations for, conducting remote focus groups and/or interviews in the era of social distancing. Specifically, we discuss best practice recommendations for researchers using video teleconferencing programs to continue qualitative research during the COVID-19 pandemic.
TDLU Involution and Breast Cancer Risk-Reply.

We appreciate the interest of Degnim and colleagues in our article ([1][1]). As mentioned in their letter, our previous study consisting of 200 cases and 915 controls from the Nurses' Health Studies showed a suggestive inverse association between visually assessed involution and breast cancer risk [
A Global Set of Subduction Zone Earthquake Scenarios and Recurrence Intervals Inferred From Geodetically Constrained Block Models of Interseismic Coupling Distributions

The past 100 years have seen the occurrence of five $\MW\geq9$ earthquakes and 94 $\MW\geq8$ earthquakes. Here we assess the potential for future great earthquakes using inferences of interseismic subduction zone coupling from a global block model incorporating both tectonic plate motions and earthquake cycle effects. Interseismic earthquake cycle effects are represented using a first-order quasistatic elastic approximation and include $\sim10^7$ km$^2$ of interacting fault system area across the globe. We use estimated spatial variations in decadal-duration coupling at 15 subduction zones and the Himalayan range front to estimate the locations and magnitudes of potential seismic events using empirical scaling relationships relating rupture area to moment magnitude. As threshold coupling values increase, estimates of potential earthquake magnitudes decrease, but the total number of large earthquakes varies non-monotonically. These rupture scenarios include as many as 14 recent or potential $\MW\geq9$ earthquakes globally and up to 18 distinct $\MW\geq7$ events associated with a single subduction zone (South America). We also combine estimated slip deficit rates and potential event magnitudes to calculate recurrence intervals for large earthquake scenarios, finding that almost all potential earthquakes have a recurrence time of less than 1,000 years.
Ergothioneine in a peptide: Substitution of histidine with 2-thiohistidine in bioactive peptides

Ergothioneine (EGT) is the betaine of 2-thiohistidine (2-thioHis) and may be the last undiscovered vitamin. EGT cannot be incorporated into a peptide because the α-nitrogen is trimethylated, although this would be advantageous as an EGT-like moiety in a peptide would impart unique antioxidant and metal chelation properties. The amino acid 2-thioHis is an analogue of EGT and can be incorporated into a peptide, although there is only one reported occurrence of this in the literature. A likely reason is the harsh conditions reported for protection of the thione, with similarly harsh conditions used in order to achieve deprotection after synthesis. Here, we report a novel strategy for the incorporation of 2-thioHis into peptides in which we decided to leave the thione unprotected. This decision was based upon the reported low reactivity of EGT with 5,5'-dithiobis(2-nitrobenzoic acid) (DTNB), a very electrophilic disulfide. This strategy was successful, and we report here the synthesis of 2-thioHis analogues of carnosine (βAH), GHK-tripeptide, and HGPLGPL. Each of these peptides contain a histidine (His) residue and possesses biological activity. Our results show that substitution of His with 2-thioHis imparts strong antioxidant, radical scavenging, and copper binding properties to the peptide. Notably, we found that the 2-thioHis analogue of GHK-tripeptide was able to completely quench the hydroxyl and ABTS radicals in our assays, and its antioxidant capacity was significantly greater than would be expected based on the antioxidant capacity of free 2-thioHis. Our work makes possible greater future use of 2-thioHis in peptides.
Pesticide Contamination of Surface Water in Egypt and Potential Impact

Enzyme-immunoassay field kits and capillary gas chromatography with nitrogen-phosphorous and electron capture detection (NPD and ECD) systems were used to determine the levels and distribution of commonly used pesticides (alachlor, atrazine, butylate, cyanazine, diazinon, metolachlor, metribuzin, malathion, parathion, propachlor, pendimethalin, trifluralin) and some of their metabolites (diethyl aniline, hydroxy alachlor, DE-atrazine, and DIP-atrazine) in surface water in Egypt. Replicate water samples were collected from several sampling sites near Cairo, Alexandria, Damietta, and Manzala Lake, using solid-phase concentration onto C18 cartridges, and the extract was subsequently analyzed using GC/NPD and GC/ECD systems. Alachlor, metolachlor, trifluralin, parathion, malathion, atrazine, and metribuzin were the most frequently detected pesticides, in the order listed, at the four sampling locations. Alachlor had the highest concentration detected (165-254 ppb), followed by metribuzin (0.6-47 ppb), metolachlor (6.6-12.5 ppb), atrazine, (2.5-7.3 ppb), and malathion (1.5-5.7 ppb). The concentrations of pesticides detected at Cairo were generally lower than those at the other three locations, down stream on the Nile River. The largest number of pesticides detected was in the Damietta branch of the Nile, and their concentration was generally higher than those detected at all other locations. Manzala Lake is the second highest location in terms of overall frequency and concentration of pesticides detected. The ecological and environmental health impacts of such contamination will be discussed.
The Imitation of Christ in English Reformation Writing

This essay surveys scholarly treatments of the imitatio Christi theme in the printed literature of the English Reformation up to about 1640 and makes a case for the relevance of contemporary religious and devotional writing on this topic to the study of early modern English literature. While imitation has long been recognized by literary critics as a central feature of early modern English pedagogy and poetics, the devotional practice of imitating Christ’s life and Passion has been historically regarded as a minor element in English Protestant piety. However, recent trends in the study of early modern English literature and the historiography of the English Reformation suggest that it is time to reconsider the role of the imitatio Christi not only within English Protestant devotional culture, but within the broader culture of literary imitation as well.
Coding unconstrained FCB excitation using combinatorial and Huffman codes

A method for coding "unconstrained" fixed codebook (FCB) excitation for ACELP speech coders is proposed. The unconstrained FCB does not place track-based constraint on the pulse positions. The coding method combines Huffman codes and combinatorial codes. The method is less sensitive to bit errors and is nearly as efficient as the combinatorial codes. A method for efficiently storing the parameters needed in the combinatorial codebook is also proposed.
A Connected History of Health and Education: Learning Together Toward a Better City

The infrastructure, financial, and human resource histories of health and education are offered as key components of future strategic planning initiatives in learning cities, and 10 key components of strategic planning initiatives designed to enhance the health and wealth of citizens of learning cities are discussed.
Summary of Contributed Papers to Volume 2

This paper is an overview of model-selection criteria for specific and general inferential situations.
Comparison of childhood cancer survivors' nutritional intake with US dietary guidelines.

Background Despite improved survival, childhood cancer survivors experience significantly elevated risk of premature mortality and serious morbidity due to chronic health conditions. Poor diet quality can exacerbate chronic health conditions in the survivors but their nutritional intake has not been adequately studied. Procedure We assessed the Healthy Eating Index 2010 (HEI-2010) in 22 survivors of pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia and lymphoma (median age = 11.7 years) and compared survivors' dietary intake to the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Dietary data were collected using repeated 24 hr dietary recalls over a 1-year period, which were averaged to estimate habitual intake. Results The mean HEI-2010 in childhood cancer survivors was 52.7, about 50 percent of the maximum score. Long-term survivors (time from diagnosis ≥10 years) had a significantly lower HEI-2010 than recent survivors (time from diagnosis <5 years) (β = −11.5, 95% CI: −22.1, −0.9, P = 0.047). For individual food groups and nutrients, survivors had a particularly poor adherence to green vegetables and beans, total vegetables, and whole fruits. None of the survivors met the guidelines for dietary fiber and potassium intake. Only 4%, 19%, 24%, and 29% met the guidelines for vitamin D, sodium, calcium, and saturated fat intake. The average intake in relative to the recommended intake was 32% for vitamin D, 50% for potassium, 63% for fiber, and 85% for calcium, but was 115% for saturated fat and 143% for sodium. Conclusions Childhood cancer survivors, in particular long-term survivors, have a poor adherence to the US dietary guidelines. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2015;62:1461–1467. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms and depression symptoms as mediators in the intergenerational transmission of smoking

Background Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder and depression have been found to be comorbid with smoking behaviors, and all three behavioral syndromes have been shown to be familially transmitted. The present paper reports on the results of analyses testing whether child attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder and depression symptoms were mediators in the intergenerational transmission of cigarette smoking.
Anti-VEGF-A therapy reduces lymphatic vessel density and expression of VEGFR-3 in an orthotopic breast tumor model

Because metastasis contributes significantly to cancer mortality, understanding its mechanisms is crucial to developing effective therapy. Metastasis is facilitated by lymphangiogenesis, the growth of new intratumoral or peritumoral lymphatic vessels from pre-existing vessels. Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) is a well-known angiogenic factor. Increasing evidence implicates VEGF-A in lymphangiogenesis, although the mechanism of its pro-lymphangiogenic effect is poorly understood. We examined the effect of the anti-VEGF-A neutralizing antibody 2C3 on tumor lymphangiogenesis and metastasis in an orthotopic breast carcinoma model using MDA-MB-231 cells and its luciferase-tagged derivative, 231-Luc+ cells. Anti-VEGF-A antibody therapy reduced blood and lymphatic vessel densities by 70% and 80%, respectively, compared with the control antibody. Treatment with 2C3 antibody also decreased incidence of lymphatic and pulmonary metastases by 3.2- and 4.5-fold, respectively. Macrophage infiltration was reduced in 2C3-treated tumors by 32%, but VEGF-C expression was unchanged. In contrast, neoplastic cells and blood vessels in tumors from 2C3-treated mice expressed significantly less angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) than tumors from control mice. The reduction in Ang-2 was associated with inhibition of VEGFR-3 expression in intratumoral lymphatic endothelial cells. Both VEGF-A and Ang-2 upregulated the expression of VEGFR-3 in cultured lymphatic endothelial cells. VEGF-A induced proliferation of lymphatic endothelial cells was reduced by 50% by soluble Tie-2, suggesting that Ang-2 is an intermediary of the pro-lymphangiogenic VEGF-A effect. These results suggest a novel mechanism by which anti-VEGF-A therapy may suppress tumor lymphangiogenesis and subsequent metastasis supporting the use of anti-VEGF-A therapy to control metastasis clinically. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Pulse therapy. Therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of pyoderma gangrenosum.

• Three patients with pyoderma gangrenosum were treated with suprapharmacologic doses of methylprednisolone sodium succinate using a five-day pulse therapy regimen. This therapy produced a dramatic remission with minimal side effects. The effects of pulse therapy are reviewed, and its role in severe steroid-responsive dermatoses is discussed. ( Arch Dermatol 1982;118:76-84)
Predictors of readiness to change young adult drug use in community health settings.

This study evaluated readiness to change drug use in young adult patients aged 18–25 years who were provided screening and brief intervention as part of a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Treatment Capacity Expansion Project. Non-treatment-seeking young adults at risk for drug problems (n = 1,560) were assessed for readiness to change. Structural equation modeling examined latent constructs: emotional distress, age, drug use severity, criminal behavior, gender, and race/ethnicity. Drug use severity fully mediated the relationship between emotional distress and readiness. In addition, females and young adults with more severe drug problems may be more amenable to behavior change.