cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Achieving diverse and monoallelic olfactory receptor selection through dual-objective optimization design

Multiple-objective optimization is common in biological systems. In the mammalian olfactory system, each sensory neuron stochastically expresses only one out of up to thousands of olfactory receptor (OR) gene alleles; at the organism level, the types of expressed ORs need to be maximized. Existing models focus only on monoallele activation, and cannot explain recent observations in mutants, especially the reduced global diversity of expressed ORs in G9a/GLP knockouts. In this work we integrated existing information on OR expression, and constructed a comprehensive model that has all its components based on physical interactions. Analyzing the model reveals an evolutionarily optimized three-layer regulation mechanism, which includes zonal segregation, epigenetic barrier crossing coupled to a negative feedback loop that mechanistically differs from previous theoretical proposals, and a previously unidentified enhancer competition step. This model not only recapitulates monoallelic OR expression, but also elucidates how the olfactory system maximizes and maintains the diversity of OR expression, and has multiple predictions validated by existing experimental results. Through making an analogy to a physical system with thermally activated barrier crossing and comparative reverse engineering analyses, the study reveals that the olfactory receptor selection system is optimally designed, and particularly underscores cooperativity and synergy as a general design principle for multiobjective optimization in biology.
The chronic effects of terbuthylazine-2-hydroxy on early life stages of marbled crayfish (Procambarus fallax f. virginalis).

Abstract This study assessed the chronic effects of terbuthylazine-2-hydroxy (T2H), one of the main terbuthylazine degradation products, on early life stages of marbled crayfish ( Procambarus fallax f. virginalis ) by means of mortality, growth rate, early ontogeny, oxidative stress, antioxidant defence and histopathology. The crayfish were exposed to four concentrations of the tested substance as follows: 0.75 μg/l (environmental concentration), 75, 375 and 750 μg/l for 62 days. Concentrations over 75 μg/l caused lower weight compared to the control group. T2H at 750 μg/l caused delay in ontogenetic development. Levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and total superoxide dismutase activity were significantly ( p
Empirical Choice of the Block Size

As we have seen in the earlier chapters, performance of block bootstrap methods critically depends on the block size. In this chapter, we describe the theoretical optimal block lengths for the estimation of various level-2 parameters and discuss the problem of choosing the optimal block sizes empirically. For definiteness, we restrict attention to the MBB method. Analogs of the block size estimation methods presented here can be defined for other block bootstrap methods. In Section 7.2, we describe the forms of the MSE-optimal block lengths for estimating the variance and the distribution function. In Section 7.3, we present a data-based method for choosing the optimal block length based on the subsampling method. This is based on the work of Hall, Horowitz and Jing (1995). A second method based on the Jackknife-After-Bootstrap (JAB) method is presented in Section 7.4. Numerical results on finite sample performance of these optimal block length selection rules are also given in the respective sections.
Ubiquitination of Substrates by E6Ap/UBE3A Ligase

Only a narrow range of E6AP ubiquitin ligase activity is allowed for normal neural development. Enzyme activation by Ube3A gene duplication is linked with familial autism spectrum disorder while loss of function results in the Angelman syndrome neurological disorder. BIOGRID recognizes 174 E6AP-interactors but only a few have been validated as substrates for ubiquitination. Recently, phosphorylation on E6APT485, an autism related residue, affected RPN10/S5A substrate ubiquitination in cells. The current aim included kinetic analysis of E6AP-catalyzed conjugation of target proteins to provide new insights into the mechanism of substrate ubiquitination. E6AP-dependent Lys48-polyubiquitin chain assembly in the absence of substrate requires two functionally distinct UbcH7∼ubiquitin binding sites on the ligase surface and oligomerization. Here, the E6AP ubiquitin-function was analyzed in the presence of RNP10/S5A (regulatory subunit of proteasome 26S) and PRDX1 (antioxidant enzyme). Rates of substrate ubiquitin adduct formation were analyzed under E6AP rate-limiting conditions. Adducts of PRDX1-Ub1 or RPN10/S5A-Ub1 showed Km values of 8±1 μM and 0.2±0.06 μM, respectively; while the kcat values were 0.3 s−1, comparable to 0.5 s−1 observed for polyubiquitin chain assembly without substrate and indicating that the ligase cannot distinguish the lysine nucleophile in Lys48-ubiquitin and Lys-target protein ubiquitination. Analysis of pH-dependent E6AP ligase function inferred a pKa of ∼8.4, either in the absence or presence of PRDX1. Removal of the first 250 N-terminal residues reduced ubiquitination of both substrates supporting the presence of previously unrecognized substrate binding domains in this region. A T485D mutation mimicking E6AP phosphorylation, or a D212A mutation, an Angelman syndrome mutation, abrogated substrate ubiquitination, although they retained the polyubiquitin chain assembly function. The results provide new insights of the E6AP ubiquitination mechanism in the presence of target proteins that might explain the deleterious effect of some mutations associated with Angelman syndrome.
Defining An Optimal Therapeutic Range for Busulfan (Bu) Administered with Pre-and Post-Transplant Cyclophosphamide (Cy) In HLA-Matched Related and Unrelated Bone Marrow Transplantation (BMT).

Abstract Abstract 3474 We have recently reported on a novel conditioning strategy comprised of standard dose busulfan (Bu) with cyclophosphamide (Cy) 50 mg/kg/dose for two doses pre-transplant with an additional two doses administered post-transplant, as sole GVHD prophylaxis. Preliminary data suggest that this strategy may reduce toxicity of alloBMT and maximize its antitumor efficacy. Given the evidence suggesting that an optimal therapeutic range of Bu systemic exposure may exist, the goal of this study was to examine the correlation between Bu area under the concentration versus time curve (AUC) and clinical outcomes in 131 consecutive patients, ages 21– 66 years, with advanced hematologic malignancies who received HLA-matched related (72 patients) and unrelated (59 patients) allografts. Bu was administered orally (1 mg/kg/dose, n= 72) or intravenously (0.8 mg/kg/dose, n= 59) every 6 hours for a total of 16 doses with pharmacokinetic adjustment to a target AUC range of 800–1400 umol*min/L. If first dose pharmacokinetics were not possible, an AUC was calculated on the first available dose. The median first dose AUC was 993 umol*min/L (range, 482–1875) for all patients (median PO = 1083; median IV= 860; P=.0001). On the basis of targeted first-dose AUC, 19 patients (13% PO and 17% IV) required dose escalation, whereas 12 patients (11% PO and 7% IV) required dose reduction. Median total cumulative AUC was 15992 umol*min/L (range, 10795–24739) with PO median of 17160 and an IV median of 13880 (P Disclosures: Off Label Use: Cyclophosphamide as conditioning for allogeneic bone marrow transplantation and as Graft-versus-host disease prophylaxis after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation. Luznik: Otsuka Pharmaceutical: Research Funding.
Absurd Dignity: The Rebel and His Cause in Améry and Camus

In “On the Necessity and Impossibility of Being a Jew,” Jean Amery admits that in Europe, “the degradation of the Jews was...identical with the death threat long before Auschwitz. In this regard, Jean- Paul Sartre, already in...his book Anti-Semite and Jew, offered a few perceptions that are still valid today.” In no uncertain terms, Amery aligns his own project to “describe the...unchanging...condition” of the Reich’s victims with Sartre’s 1946 book on anti-Semitism, a philosophical gesture that was not uncommon for left- leaning Jewish intellectuals after the war. According to Robert Misrahi, who discusses at length what he calls Sartre’s “evident good will,” “his manifest care to render justice, and his desire, in the face of the Jews’ great suffering, to address himself to them,” Anti-Semite and Jew was primarily a “powerful affirmation of sympathy” for European Jews and, moreover, “an effective weapon against anti- Semitism.” Misrahi insists that French Jews were “astonished, even stunned for what we (Jews) were used to was hatred and contempt.” Sartre’s repeated assertions that the suffering of European Jewry was undeserved and unwarranted, are underscored by his declaration that Euro pe’s problem was not, after all, ‘the Jew’ but the anti -Semite, whose sadistic Manichaeism and profound fear of himself and his own instincts and responsibilities, had inverted European values so profoundly as to make genocide ethical. And although Sartre repeatedly emphasizes his intention to analyze primarily the situation of French Jews, he does not fail to connect European anti- Semitism with other forms of racialized hatred; ‘the Jew’ is only a “pretext,” since “elsewhere [the anti-Semite’s] counterpart will make use of the Negro or the man of yellow skin” because anti-Semitism, “in short, is fear of the human condition.” Given the profound radicalism of such declarations at the time, it is not a surprise that Amery confessed and enacted a deep affinity for Sartrean existentialism. And yet, despite Amery’s understandable eagerness to wave the Sartrean flag, Amery’s existentialism is less like Sartre’s, and, consciously or unconsciously, far more like that of Albert Camus. Although Amery never mentions Camus in At the Mind’s Limits, Amery shares Camus’ reverence for rigorous analysis that simultaneously resists the kind of moral and political rigidity that often leads to a falsification of human experience and history. This is perhaps most evident in their overlapping treatments and understandings of human dignity and its solitary champion, the absurdist ‘rebel.’
Endovascular Diagnosis and Treatment of Hyper-Acute Occlusion of Carotid Endarterectomy (P6.071)

Objective: We aim to describe the endovascular diagnosis and treatment of hyper-acute re-stenosis in a patient following CEA. Background: Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is a well-studied standard of care for stenosis of the internal carotid artery (ICA) due to atherosclerotic disease. Although management of symptomatic re-stenosis following CEA is well reported, acute restenosis within two weeks of CEA is not well described and is dogmatically managed with open surgical exploration of the CEA. There are few reports of endovascular management of acute restenosis with carotid stenting. There are no reports of the management of hyperacute re-stenosis within the first 12 hours of CEA. Methods: We reviewed the records, imaging, and outcomes in a case of hyperacute CEA re-stenosis and endovascular management. Results: A 65-year-old female with symptomatic critical stenosis (99[percnt] on computed tomography angiogram, CTA) of the left ICA underwent an uncomplicated left CEA with 35 minutes of cross-clamping and primary arteriotomy repair under the microscope. There were no changes in somatosensory or motor evoked potentials. Three hours post-operatively, she was acutely unresponsive to commands and had right hemiparesis. CTA demonstrated hyperacute occlusion of the left common carotid artery. Distance of occlusion from the primary CEA led to concern about accessibility for revascularization, so she was taken to the hybrid endovascular neurosurgery operating room for further diagnostic evaluation and endovascular thrombectomy. The re-stenosis was determined to occur focally at the bifurcation and was treated with two serial carotid stents. She was started on aspirin 81mg daily and clopidogrel 75mg daily. On one-month follow-up, she had improvement in expressive and receptive aphasia and was ambulating independently. Conclusions: Although considerations include mechanical integrity of fresh primary arteriotomy repair during stent deployment and hemorrhage from dual-anti-platelet therapy following open surgery, this case illustrates the principle of endovascular management of a hyperacute CEA complication. Disclosure: Dr. Nayan has nothing to disclose. Dr. See has nothing to disclose. Dr. Khandelwal has nothing to disclose. Dr. Patel has nothing to disclose. Dr. Aziz-Sultan has received personal compensation for activities with Covidien.
Contrast induced-acute kidney injury following peripheral angiography with carbon dioxide versus iodinated contrast media: A meta-analysis and systematic review of current literature.

Objective We conducted a meta-analysis to compare the incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) with carbon dioxide (CO2) versus iodinated contrast media (ICM). Background Contrast induced-acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) is a known complication following endovascular procedures with ICM. CO2 has been employed as an alternative imaging medium as it is nontoxic to the kidneys. Methods Search of indexed databases was performed and 1,732 references were retrieved. Eight studies (7 observational, 1 Randomized Controlled Trial) formed the meta-analysis. Primary outcome was AKI. Fixed effect model was used when possible in addition to analysis of publication bias. Results In this meta-analysis, 677 patients underwent 754 peripheral angiographic procedures. Compared with ICM, CO2 was associated with a decreased incidence of AKI (4.3% vs. 11.1%; OR 0.465, 95% CI: 0.218-0.992; P = 0.048). Subgroup analysis of four studies that included granular data for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) did not demonstrate a decreased incidence of AKI with CO2 (4.1% vs. 10.0%; OR 0.449, 95% CI: 0.165–1.221, P = 0.117). Patients undergoing CO2 angiography experienced a higher number of nonrenal events including limb/abdominal pain (11 vs. 0; P = 0.001) and nausea/vomiting (9 vs. 1; P = 0.006). Conclusions In comparison to ICM, CO2 use is associated with a modestly reduced rate of AKI with more frequent adverse nonrenal events. In studies that use CO2 as the primary imaging agent, the average incidence of AKI remained high at 6.2%—supporting the concept that factors other than renal toxicity from ICM may contribute to renal impairment following peripheral angiography. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Necrotizing Enterocolitis Incidence, Characteristics, and Outcomes in Neonatal Down Syndrome Patients

Introduction Neonates with Down syndrome (nDS) have multiple medical issues that may place them at an increased risk of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). The goal of this study was to determine the incidence, characteristics, and outcomes of nDS patients that developed NEC. Methods Data from the Pediatric Health Information Systems database on all nDS were reviewed. Demographics, medical conditions, development of NEC, and mortality were recorded. Patients were divided into nDS patients who developed NEC (nDS-NEC) versus nDS patients who did not develop NEC (nDS-nNEC). Results Incidence of NEC in nDS patients was 6.6% (381/5,737). Baseline demographic data indicated nDS-NEC patients were more likely to be born earlier, have a diagnosis of congenital diaphragmatic hernia, ventricular septal defect, patent ductus arteriosus, Ebstein's anomaly, or a left-sided obstructive lesion versus nDS-nNEC patients. The odds ratio for death in the nDS-NEC patients was 2.5 (95% confidence interval, 1.8–3.3) versus the nDS-NEC patients. Conclusion The incidence of NEC in nDS patients requiring admission to a children's hospital after birth is much higher than that reported for term infants. Baseline characteristics differ in nDS patients that may place them at a higher risk for NEC. nDS-NEC patients have an increased morbidity and a significantly higher mortality compared with the nDS-nNEC patients.
Formative Assessment Using Direct Behavior Ratings: Evaluating Intervention Effects of Daily Behavior Report Cards:

This study examined the treatment sensitivity of Direct Behavior Rating–Single Item Scales (DBR-SIS) in response to an evidence-based intervention delivered in a single-case, multiple-baseline desi...
Images of Minimal-Vector Sequences Under Weighted Composition Operators on L2(\( \mathbb{D} \))

Let X be either the unit interval in ℝ or the unit disk \( \mathbb{D} \) in ℂ. Chalendar, Flattot, and Partington [2] study weighted composition operators Tw,ϒ on L2(X), where w ∈ L∞(X), ϒ : X → X is injective, and Tw,ϒf = wfoϒ for f ∈ L2(X). They introduce a (strict) partial order ≻ on X associated with Tw,ϒ and use it to obtain a sufficient condition for convergence of the sequence (Tn w,ϒyn) where (yn) is a backward minimal-vector sequence for Tw,ϒ. For the L2(\( \mathbb{D} \)) case, they give a detailed analysis of the situation where ϒ is linear-fractional. Through further study of the partial order ≻, we are able to generalize results from [2] that apply when ϒ is linear-fractional, replacing the linear-fractional hypotheses with univalence. In particular, our work yields generalizations of an invariant-subspace theorem in [2].
Recent trends in fatal motorcycle crashes: an update.

This report discusses 10-year trends in fatal motorcycle crashes in the United States. The report uses 4 national data sources on motorcycles to assess these trends, including the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (all fatal traffic crashes in the United States), the Motorcycle Industry Council (motorcycle ownership and sales), Federal Highway Administration (motorcycle registration and miles traveled), and the US Census Bureau population values. Although the report is descriptive, it presents some very disturbing data plus potential insight to better understand the findings. Language: en
Free Fibula Reconstruction

This 34-year-old man sustained a severe crush injury to the left lower extremity when a forklift fell on that extremity. He presented to us approximately 1 week after the injury and after initial debridement. There was a large, full-thickness skin-loss open wound of the anteromedial aspect of the distal third of the tibia with exposed tibia (Figure 14.1).
Near Edge X-Ray Absorption Fine Structure Spectroscopy: A Powerful Tool for Investigating the Surface Structure and Chemistry of Solid Lubricants

Synchrotron-based spectroscopic techniques have been critical tools for developing a better understanding of the structure and properties of materials and material surfaces as well as their evolution in response to energetics inputs, such as mechanical strains present in tribological contacts. Among these techniques, near edge X-ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) spectroscopy is one of the most powerful tools thanks to its elemental specificity, surface sensitivity, and ability to provide important information about local bonding configurations, such as hybridization, chemical states, and bond orientations. In addition, when coupled with imaging methods like photoemission electron microscopy and magnetically-guided imaging, NEXAFS spectroscopy enables chemical imaging of materials with high spatial resolution. This capability can be critical when investigating materials after tribological experiments, where chemical changes and structural transformations occur in the first few atomic layers and spatial inhomogeneities can be present across small length scales. The present contribution first describes the principles of NEXAFS spectroscopy, followed by experimental methods for the acquisition and processing of NEXAFS data. Finally, the potential of this analytical method for fundamental and applied research in tribology is demonstrated by discussing case studies in the area of solid lubricating carbon-based thin films.
Trastornos alimentarios en mujeres adultas (maduras)

Resumen Antecedentes: Existe evidencia de un creciente numero de mujeres en la mediana edad que sufren trastornos de la conducta alimentaria (TCA). Objetivo: Describir las mujeres en la adultez mediana con TCA, en relacion a sus caracteristicas epidemiologicas, etiopatogenicas, clinicas, evolutivas y terapeuticas. Metodo: Se realizo una busqueda bibliografica exhaustiva utilizando las bases de datos electronicas MEDLINE/PubMed, SciELO y la Biblioteca Cochrane, ademas de textos de consulta especializados, desde 1984 hasta la actualidad (2017). Resultados: Las caracteristicas clinicas y la mayoria de los factores de riesgo (biologico, psicologico, sociocultural) son similares a los encontrados en mujeres mas jovenes, pudiendo ser mas probablemente la continuacion de un TCA previo o un inicio tardio de la patologia. Las variables mas distintivas y relevantes para las mujeres de mediana edad son la menopausia y la ansiedad relacionada al envejecimiento, quienes parecen ser menos proclives a desarrollar anorexia nerviosa y bulimia nerviosa, sino mas bien trastorno por atracones y otros TCA no especificados y especificados subumbrales. Es muy frecuente la depresion y las comorbilidades fisicas sistemicas. El manejo terapeutico es multidisciplinario y la falta de adherencia implica un desenlace cronico. Conclusiones: Los medicos deben tener presentes el mayor riesgo de TCA en mujeres perimenopausicas, cuando los cambios en la apariencia fisica pueden ser drasticos, inesperados y no deseados y deben esmerarse en explorar esta posibilidad en la practica clinica diaria.
Experimental reconstruction of the contact resonance shape factor for quantification and amplification of bias-induced strain in atomic force microscopy

The contact resonance (CR) of a surface coupled atomic force microscope (AFM) cantilever can act as an amplifier of AC surface motion for piezoresponse force microscopy and related methods. However, the amplifier properties of the CR vary depending on tip-sample boundary conditions, leading to the appearance of displacement amplitude contrast when only stiffness contrast exists. It was recently proposed that the shape of the vibrating cantilever as a function of CR frequency could be analytically modeled and a shape factor calibration could be applied. Here, we demonstrate an experimental reconstruction of the contact resonance shape factor that can be used to quantify surface displacements in AFM measurements, without reliance on analytical models with uncertain input parameters. We demonstrate accurate quantification of surface displacement in periodically poled lithium niobate and pave the way for quantification of extremely small surface strains in the future.The contact resonance (CR) of a surface coupled atomic force microscope (AFM) cantilever can act as an amplifier of AC surface motion for piezoresponse force microscopy and related methods. However, the amplifier properties of the CR vary depending on tip-sample boundary conditions, leading to the appearance of displacement amplitude contrast when only stiffness contrast exists. It was recently proposed that the shape of the vibrating cantilever as a function of CR frequency could be analytically modeled and a shape factor calibration could be applied. Here, we demonstrate an experimental reconstruction of the contact resonance shape factor that can be used to quantify surface displacements in AFM measurements, without reliance on analytical models with uncertain input parameters. We demonstrate accurate quantification of surface displacement in periodically poled lithium niobate and pave the way for quantification of extremely small surface strains in the future.
Informationsauswertung und Bayessches Theorem

Die statistischen Model1e, die der Bayesanalyse und den empirischen Bayes-Methoden zugrundeliegen, werden dargestellt, ihre Auswirkungen auf die Verwendbarkeit der Formel von Bayes aufgezeigt. Im Rahmen des allgemeineren Modells fur empirische Bayes-Methoden werden die Identifizierbarkeit, Schatzbarkeit der Parameterverteilung und Konstruktionsprinzipien fur empirische Bayes-Verfahren angesprochen.
Cell-Free DNA Testing

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is an emerging biomarker that already has significant clinical utility. With further development, cfDNA characterization may become a ubiquitous companion modality for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment selection, and recurrence detection for myriad medical conditions. In this chapter, we aim to provide an overview of current and potential cfDNA applications, specimen collection and assay design considerations, and technology used to detect and evaluate cfDNA.
Quantitative Studies of Muscleblind Proteins and Their Interaction With TCF4 RNA Foci Support Involvement in the Mechanism of Fuchs' Dystrophy.

Purpose Fuchs' endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is a major cause of vision loss and the most common nucleotide repeat disorder, affecting 4% of United States population greater than 40 years of age. Seventy percent of FECD cases are due to an intronic CTG expansion within the TCF4 gene, resulting in accumulation of CUG repeat RNA nuclear foci in corneal endothelium. Each endothelial cell has approximately two sense foci, and each focus is a single RNA molecule. This study aimed to obtain a better understanding of how rare repeat RNA species lead to disease. Methods We quantitatively examined muscleblind-like (MBNL) proteins and their interaction with foci in both patient-derived corneal endothelial cell lines and human corneal endothelial tissue. Results Using fluorescent in situ hybridization and immunofluorescence, we found that depletion of both MBNL1 and MBNL2 reduces nuclear RNA foci formed by the repeat, suggesting that both are necessary for foci. Quantitative studies of RNA and protein copy number revealed MBNLs to be abundant in the total cellular pool in endothelial cell lines but are much lower in human corneal endothelial tissue. Studies using human tissue nuclear and cytoplasmic fractions indicate that most MBNL proteins are localized to the cytoplasm. Conclusions The low levels of MBNL1/2 in corneal tissue, in combination with the small fraction of protein in the nucleus, may make corneal endothelial cells especially susceptible to sequestration of MBNL1/2 by CUG repeat RNA. These observations may explain how a limited number of RNA molecules can cause widespread alteration of splicing and late-onset degenerative FECD.
Role of substrate temperature and tellurium flux on the electrical and optical properties of MBE grown GeTe and Sb2Te3 thin films on GaAs (100)

Van der Waals layered GeTe/Sb2Te3 chalcogenide superlattices have demonstrated outstanding performance for use in dynamic resistive memories in what is known as interfacial phase change memory devices due to their low power requirement and fast switching. These devices are made from the periodic stacking of nanometer thick crystalline layers of chalcogenide phase change materials. The mechanism for this transition is still debated, though it varies from that of traditional phase change melt-quench transition observed in singular layers of GeTe and Sb2Te3. In order to better understand the mechanism and behavior of this transition, a thorough study on each constituent layer and the parameters for growth via molecular beam epitaxy was performed. In this work, the authors show the effect of tellurium overpressure and substrate temperature on the growth of thin film GeTe and Sb2Te3 on (100) GaAs. The authors demonstrate the significant role during growth that tellurium overpressure plays in the transport properties of both GeTe and Sb2Te3, as well as the negligible impact this has on both the structural and optical properties. The highest mobility recorded was 466 cm2/V s with a p-type bulk carrier concentration of 1.5 × 1019 cm−3 in Sb2Te3. For GeTe, the highest achieved was 55 cm2/V s at a p-type bulk carrier concentration of 8.6 × 1020 cm−3. The authors discuss transport properties, orientation, and crystal structure and the parameters needed to achieve high mobility chalcogenide thin films.
Vaping-related pulmonary granulomatous disease.

Abstract The use of electronic cigarettes, or “vaping,” has garnered significant popularity and attention in recent years. Its pulmonary and systemic effects have yet to be fully studied and quantified, and recent reports of vaping-related illnesses and deaths have brought the clinical consequences of vaping into the public spotlight. This report describes the case of a 34 year old woman who presented to clinic with new-onset cough and dyspnea, shortly after beginning to use electronic cigarettes. Imaging demonstrated new micronodular opacities and mediastinal lymphadenopathy, while pathology confirmed granulomatous disease. After she received counseling and successfully quit vaping, her symptoms resolved and repeat imaging demonstrated resolution of parenchymal findings and lymphadenopathy. This case report therefore presents a longitudinal narrative of reversible vaping-related pulmonary granulomatous disease.
Jouer avec la page : Les Romans de Stéphane Vanderhaeghe

My paper shows how Stephane Vanderhaeghe’s work goes against the grain of a literary mainstream whose most prominent authors (and literary prizes) favor autofiction or narratives re-exploring a mor...
Another Look at Learning the Techniques of Elementary Integration

Pattern recognition plays a central role in discovery and progress in both science and mathematics. Integration involves the ability to recognize when a particular method should be applied. Every CAS utilizes pattern matching procedures in the algorithms for integration. Emphasis is placed on this aspect of the technique, thus developing, at least, the awareness of the importance of pattern recognition and presumably, leading to some facility in it. Use the openness of Maple to expose a pattern in the techniques of integration.
Lost But Not Missing: Factors Associated With Loss Of Follow-Up In A Pediatric Cardiology Clinic

Background: Prior research has shown that loss of cardiology follow-up starts in early childhood, with almost half of patients lost to follow-up by age 13. However, risk factors for lack of follow-up are unclear. The purpose of this study was to determine variables associated with loss of appropriate pediatric cardiology follow-up, including potentially modifiable factors. We hypothesized that having earlier recommend follow-up times was associated with less likelihood of loss of follow-up. Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients seen in a large, outpatient pediatric practice with over 20 locations in our state. The time period for initial encounters was from …
Examining motivation profiles within and across socioeconomic levels on educational outcomes

Abstract Academic motivation and socioeconomic status are important predictors of educational milestones which portend future career and earning trajectories as well as a potential path out of poverty. This study used motivation variables from expectancy value theory and a person-oriented approach to explore how motivation profiles interact with socioeconomic status to predict high school math achievement, high school completion, and college enrollment using ELS:2002 data. Based on a large national sample of 10th grade students, six motivation profiles and SES quartiles were significant predictors of educational outcomes. Motivation profiles tend to correspond with SES quartiles, although one enigmatic profile, High Ability – Low Utility, emerged to demonstrate the importance of utility value in educational outcomes.
“Let Us Have Our Tea”: News Coverage of the U.S. Women’s National Team: Reinforcing or Negating Perpetuated Discriminatory Standards

Mega sporting events are a spectacle inducing some of the highest viewership numbers and television ratings within each participating nation. Media landscapes can embody any and all narratives pertaining to the event, even minimalistic ones. Those riddled with controversy or significance headline coverages until irrelevance. Headline selection surrounding the 2019 World Cup suggests extensive framing in media coverage perpetuating sexist norms of men and men’s soccer being superior to women and women’ soccer. This chapter’s analysis of coverage surrounding the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup investigates themes and framing techniques through the lens of postmodern feminism to create a basis for further research and a roadmap for identifying discriminatory practices.
Corporate Bankruptcy Prediction Model for Internet Startup Companies

The purpose of this paper is to present a new approach to developing a financial distress prediction model that analyzes factors affecting success or failure of dot-com companies. In a new model, both demand side and supply side categories account for the performance of firms following IPOs. Huyghebaert et al. (2000) and Lewis et al. (2000) serve as a framework for the new model. This research uses a multiple discriminant analysis to build the proposed model. The demand side category includes an underwriter reputation factor and a market condition factor, while the supply side category includes a funds flow factor. The statistical results show that independent variables such as Gross Profit Margins, Cash Flows, Receivables, Accounts Payables, and Market Value are significant whereas Stock Holders’ Equities, Dividends, Capital Expenditures, and Inventories are insignificant.
Quantifying ESG alpha using scholar big data: an automated machine learning approach

ESG (Environmental, social and governance) alpha strategy that makes sustainable investment has gained popularity among investors. The ESG fields of study in scholar big data is a valuable alternative data that reflects a company's long-term ESG commitment. However, it is considered a difficulty to quantitatively measure a company's ESG premium and its impact to the company's stock price using scholar big data. In this paper, we utilize ESG scholar data as alternative data to develop an automatic trading strategy and propose a practical machine learning approach to quantify the ESG premium of a company and capture the ESG alpha. First, we construct our ESG investment universe and apply feature engineering on the companies' ESG scholar data from the Microsoft Academic Graph database. Then, we train six complementary machine learning models using a combination of financial indicators and ESG scholar data features and employ an ensemble method to predict stock prices and automatically set up portfolio allocation. Finally, we manage our portfolio, trade and rebalance the portfolio allocation monthly using predicted stock prices. We backtest our ESG alpha strategy and compare its performance with benchmarks. The proposed ESG alpha strategy achieves a cumulative return of 2,154.4% during the backtesting period of ten years, which significantly outperforms the NASDAQ-100 index's 397.4% and S&P 500's 226.9%. The traditional financial indicators results in only 1,443.7%, thus our scholar data-based ESG alpha strategy is better at capturing ESG premium than traditional financial indicators.
Using Medicaid Data to Estimate State- and County-Level Prevalence of Asthma among Low-Income Children

Objectives: Asthma is one of the most common illnesses among children, yet there is little reliable information on the number of children at the state and county level who are living with asthma. This study examines the prevalence of asthma among low-income children in North Carolina using Medicaid paid claims and enrollment data. Methods: Claims paid by Medicaid during state fiscal year 1997–1998 with a diagnosis of asthma or for a prescription drug used to treat asthma are examined to estimate prevalence among children ages 0–14 years. Percentages of enrolled children with asthma are presented by age, race, and rural/urban residence, and the costs of asthma treatment are calculated. Results: More than 12% of North Carolina children ages 0–14 years on Medicaid had an indication of asthma. Prevalence rates were found to be highest among younger children, some minority groups, and residents of rural areas. More than $23 million was paid by Medicaid during the fiscal year for asthma-related services for children ages 0–14 years. Conclusions: State Medicaid databases are a useful means of studying the prevalence of asthma and other health conditions in low-income populations. Strengths and weaknesses of the proposed methodology are discussed. Existing administrative data systems can provide quick updates of prevalence rates at the state and county level, enhancing the ability to study trends in illness over time.
Issues and directions in technology-integrated personnel assessment and professional development

Program design possibilities for educational personnel assessment and professional learning have considerably expanded in recent years as a result of the continued development and refinement of computer, video, and web-based digital technologies. As a result, preK-12 teachers, administrators, and other educators increasingly have access to newer kinds of technology-based professional assessment and career learning tools that enable personnel to approach assessment, evaluation, and professional learning activities in more integrative and effective ways. These technology-based tools engender new sets of issues and raise prospects for new directions and possibilities for personnel assessment and development in the field of education.
Factors limiting the rate of living-related kidney donation to children in an inner city setting.

A recent review of our center experience revealed that only 38% of our pediatric renal transplants come from living-related donors (LRD), which is 11% lower than the national average. The present study was designed to identify factors that limit the availability of LRD in our population pool. Retrospective chart reviews and subsequent telephone interviews were conducted with parents of all children who received renal replacement therapy (RRT) at our institution from 1990 to 1999. The availability of parents and their willingness to donate a kidney were noted. Self-reported willingness was defined as the verbal expression of a desire to donate. Firm willingness was defined as the completion of the steps necessary for donation, unless excluded by the medical team. Factors that may impact the ability to donate, such as donor age, ethnicity, religion, educational attainment, employment, and presence of other siblings younger than 18 yr of age, were evaluated. Statistical analyses were performed using the Student's t-test and chi-square analysis. Significant results were entered into a single-step multiple regression analysis. Sixty children were identified with RRT, of whom 60% were Blacks, 30% Hispanics, 7% Caucasians, and 3% Asian. Fifty-five mothers were available for interview. Forty-four mothers reported a desire to donate, nine were unwilling to donate, and two were undecided. However, only 35 attended for screening. Only 30 fathers were available and, of these, 27 reported willingness to donate, yet only 20 attended for screening. Seventy-four per cent (26 out of 35) of mothers screened and 55% (11 out of 20) of fathers screened were medically unsuitable for kidney donation. Nineteen potential donors had hypertension, diabetes and/or obesity, seven had renal disease, four had anemia, two had hepatitis C, and five had other conditions. Expressed unwillingness to donate was associated with a greater number of children (3.1 compared to 1.5 children in addition to the child with end-stage renal disease [ESRD]) (odds ratio 2.91, p <0.05) and employment (26.3% vs. 4.0%, p <0.05) (odds ratio 31.2, p = 0.05). Comparing mothers who were firmly willing to donate with mothers who did not complete screening and evaluation, unwilling mothers had, likewise, a greater number of children (2.9 vs. 1.2 in addition to the child with ESRD) (odds ratio 3.23, p <0.01) and a greater number of years of education (12.4 vs. 10.4) (odds ratio 2.14, p <0.05). Hence, the availability of living kidney donors for our inner city children is severely limited by a high rate of single parenthood and a high rate of comorbid conditions in the parental donor pool. Furthermore, there is a diminished capacity of the available parent, particularly the mother, to donate as she tends to have numerous other dependents.
Work-physiological synchronization as a determinant of performance in repetitive computer work.

Abstract The present study tested the hypothesis that performance would improve when the work rhythm of a highly repetitive task was synchronous with a worker's internal physiological rhythms. Experienced office workers ( n = 20) used video display terminals (VDTs) to perform a repetitive, self-paced data-entry task in a simulated office environment over a 2-day period. Each work day consisted of six 40-min work periods. Work rhythm changes were induced by varying input data field lengths (3–13 characters) across eleven of the twelve work periods. The degree of synchronization between the work and breathing rhythms, and also between the work rhythm and variations in the interbeat interval, was scored using cross-spectral analysis. Synchronization scores were then used to predict keying performance using multiple regression analysis. The degree of synchronization between the work and breathing rhythms was not predictive of performance. However, increased synchronization between the work and cardiac rhythms was predictive of 1. (a) increased keystroke output, 2. (b) lower error rate and 3. (c) lower correction rate. The results suggest that performance in repetitive VDT work might improve if the task is designed to promote work-physiological synchronization.
Recent progress made in testing laser diodes and optical materials subjected to exposure in space

In this paper, progress made so far in the performance testing of waveguide laser components sent by NASA Langley Research Center on MISSE 6 mission will be discussed. The objective of the Materials International Space Station Experiment (MISSE) is to study the performance of novel materials when subjected to the synergistic effects of the harsh space environment for several months. MISSE missions provide an opportunity for developing space qualifiable materials. The results of post-testing of several optical materials that were recently returned back after more than one year of exposure on the International Space Station (ISS) will be presented. The items were part of the MISSE 6 mission that was transported to the ISS via STS 123 on March 11, 2008 and returned to the Earth via STS 128 that was launched on August 2009. The materials experienced no visible damage during lengthy exposure in space. In the case of laser diode, a comparison of elemental analysis with pre-flight conditions will be presented. Furthermore, the optical components sent on MISSE 7 mission via STS-129 and later retrieved by STS-134 will be briefly discussed.
Charismatic Reactions to Individuals and Ideas: Looks, Language and Lincoln

This paper explores the application of Freud’s theories of leadership and group psychology to the case of Abraham Lincoln. It argues that followers’ needs for charismatic leaders propel them to construct heroic and charismatic cognitive representations of leaders who give the impression of power and who represent the ideal qualities of the group. Both leaders and their ideas can create an emotional connection with followers. During his lifetime, Americans developed charismatic and heroic interpretations of Abraham Lincoln’s appearance. They also responded positively to Lincoln’s use of biblical rhythms and phrases in his speeches and writings.
Method for blot-hybridization analysis of mRNA molecules from Bacillus subtilis

By modifying hybridization techniques which are currently available to analyze RNA molecules we have developed a sensitive and reproducible method for 'Northern' analysis of RNA from Bacillus subtilis. The use of a thin (1 mm) vertical 2% agarose-6% formaldehyde gel seems to allow more efficient transfer and higher resolution of RNA upon hybridization analysis than does the use of thicker horizontal slab gels. Our improved hybridization method results in greatly reduced background upon autoradiography regardless of whether or not 32P-labelled nick-translated probes or probes synthesized on M13 vectors were purified from the unincorporated radionucleotides.
Employee-initiated defamation lawsuits: Organizational responses and dilemmas

The fast-growing category of defamation lawsuits in the United States involves actions by employees against their employers. Over the last decade, the courts have increasingly ruled in favor of the employee plaintiffs, thus creating an employee's right to reputation. This article identifies a variety of responses undertaken by organizations to reduce their legal liability and lessen the likelihood of employee defamation lawsuits. We argue that while organizational actions to reduce their legal liability may appear “rational,” such responses may also be creating situations in which employers, employees, and the public may be the unintended victims of a “law without justice.” The article concludes with a discussion of balancing the freedom necessary for managers to communicate about employees and the fairness of that communication.
Demo abstract: SEPTIMU — Continuous in-situ human wellness monitoring and feedback using sensors embedded in earphones

ABSTRACT A mobile phone, as a pervasive device, has great potential in human wellness monitoring. In this demo, we first present the design and implementation of our hardware — SEPTIMU. SEPTIMU consists of a small baseboard and a pair of tiny sensor boards embedded inside conventional earphones. The baseboard provides power conversion and data communication through the normal audio jack interface. The embedded sensor board is 1×1cm2 and integrates 3-axis accelerometer, gyroscope, thermometer, photodiode and microphone. Secondly, we evaluate SEPTIMU using a mobile application that continuously monitors body posture and provides feedback to the user.
The pulpless tooth in rehabilitation of the mouth.

Mouth rehabilitation is facilitated by the use of endodontic therapy to maintain strategically important teeth. If extensive restorative procedures are contemplated, the necessary endodontic procedures should be completed prior to the restorative procedures.
Theoretical Research on Ferroresonance in Neutral Grounded Power System

Abstract The capacitive coupling has an effect on Ferro resonance occurring on neutral-grounded system. Considering the capacitive coupling and using stability theory, the time-variation model is built up. At the same time, zero-sequence resistor is analyzed in depth. The parameter condition of system stability operation is also given in the condition.
New Fault Location Scheme for a Two- Terminal Transmission Line Using Synchronized Phasor Measurements

This paper describes a new iterative method to locate fault on a single transmission line. The method uses synchronized voltage and current measurements from both terminals. Using positive sequence components of the pre-fault and fault waveforms, positive sequence source impedances are estimated. Using these source impedances and the line data, positive sequence bus impedance matrix (Zbus) is formed. Using the properties of Zbus, an iterative algorithm is proposed to locate the fault. This algorithm is applied to the data obtained from the EMTP simulation of two transmission lines. The simulation results show that though the method gives fairly accurate results for both medium and long transmission lines, its performance is better for medium and short lines
Emergence of clostridium tertium as a pathogen in neutropenic patients

Although usually considered a non-pathogen, Clostridium tertium was isolated from 10 immunosuppressed patients including seven patients with bacteremia. This organism can grow aerobically and can be easily disregarded as a contaminant. It also has a somewhat unusual susceptibility pattern, with significant resistance to the penicillins, cephalosporins, and clindamycin, possibly explaining its emergence in immunocompromised patients already receiving multiple antibiotics.