cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Correlates of underutilization of gynecological cancer screening among lesbian and heterosexual women

Abstract Background . Study aims were to examine cervical cancer risk factors, screening patterns, and predictors of screening adherence in demographically similar samples of lesbian ( N = 550) and heterosexual women ( N = 279). Methods . Data are from a multisite survey study of women's health conducted from 1994 to 1996. Results . Differences in sexual behavior risk factors for cervical cancer were observed with lesbians reporting earlier onset of sexual activity ( P P P P P Conclusion . Data indicate that lesbians are at risk for cervical cancer, yet underutilize recommended screening tests. Findings have implications for research, education, and cancer control among lesbians.
An explanatory reasoning framework for embodied agents

Our interest is in developing embodied cognitive systems. In the majority of work on cognitive modeling, the focus is on generating models that can perform specific tasks in order to understand specific reasoning processes. This approach has traditionally been exceptionally successful at accomplishing its goal. The approach encounters limitations, however, when the cognitive models are going to be used in an embodied way (e.g., on a robot). Namely, the models are too narrow to operate in the real world due to its unpredictability. In this paper, we argue that one key way for cognitive agents to better operate in real-world environments is to be able to identify and explain unexpected situations in the world; in other words, to perform explanatory reasoning. In this paper, we introduce a framework for explanatory reasoning that describes a way for cognitive agents to achieve this capability.
The influence of consequence value and text difficulty on affect, attention, and learning while reading instructional texts

Abstract The present study investigated how consequence value influences affect, attention, and learning while reading instructional texts, and if text difficulty moderates these effects. Participants studied four instructional texts on research methods in a 2 × 2 consequence value (high vs. low) × text difficulty (easy vs. difficult) within-subjects experiment. Consequence value was manipulated by assigning two of the four texts as having high value and the other two as having low value with respect to a performance goal on a subsequent test, while text difficulty was manipulated via experimenter-created easy and difficult versions of the texts. We hypothesized that consequence value would induce mild anxiety, which would focus attention and facilitate learning, and that text difficulty would moderate the influence of consequence value. Partially consistent with the predictions, high consequence value led to lower valence, higher arousal, longer reading times, and positively predicted knowledge transfer. Arousal mediated the relationship between consequence value and knowledge transfer, but only when the texts were difficult, thereby suggesting moderated mediation.
Early Cartilage Changes After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury: Evaluation With Imaging and Serum Biomarkers-A Pilot Study.

Purpose To determine if magnetic resonance imaging markers of cartilage matrix and morphology and circulating serum biomarkers of inflammation and matrix degradation differ over time in patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and bone marrow edema lesions (BMELs) when compared with matched control subjects. Methods We performed a case-control study, in which 11 ACL-injured subjects scheduled to undergo reconstruction and 11 matched control subjects were scheduled for testing. Participants were selected for the ACL reconstruction (ACLR) group if they injured their ACL while participating in sports, were aged 14 to 30 years, had 1 or more BMELs, and were scheduled to undergo bone–patellar tendon–bone ACLR. Testing required patients to undergo magnetic resonance imaging for measurement of T2 relaxation times in standardized regions of interest over the medial and lateral tibial plateaus and femoral condyles and have blood drawn for measurement of cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) and C-reactive protein levels before ligament reconstruction and 1 year after surgery. Results ACL patients had prolonged T2 relaxation times, indicative of cartilage matrix degradation, in the superficial central lateral tibial plateau ( P = .02) and deep medial tibial plateau when compared with control subjects ( P = .0001). Prolonged T2 relaxation times were also noted over the lateral femoral condyle at baseline for ACL patients compared with control subjects ( P = .001), but the differences resolved by 1 year ( P = .98). Circulating serum COMP levels were greater in ACL patients (233.23 ± 88.26 ng/mL) compared with control subjects (169.05 ± 64.53 ng/mL, P = .05). Conclusions T2 mapping showed prolonged relaxation times in the lateral compartment of the knee in ACLR patients with lateral BMELs. Furthermore, prolonged T2 relaxation times were apparent in the medial compartment of the knee in ACL-injured patients where bone marrow lesions were not present. Higher serum COMP levels were present in ACL-injured subjects when compared with control subjects. Level of Evidence Level II, prospective case-control study.
A Study of Analogy in Computer Science Tutorial Dialogues

Analogy plays an important role in learning, but its role in teaching Computer Science has hardly been explored. We annotated and analyzed analogy in a corpus of tutoring dialogues on Computer Science data structures. Via linear regression analysis, we established that the presence of analogy and of specific dialogue acts within analogy episodes correlate with learning. We have integrated our findings in our ChiQat-Tutor system, and are currently evaluating the effect of analogy within the system.
Stratification in Representative Sampling

STRATIFICATION is one of the methods that have been developed in recent years for increasing the accuracy of information obtained from samples and reducing the cost of obtaining it. The general procedure is quite simple; it consists of dividing what is to be sampled into its most important parts and then taking a sample of the right size from each part. For example, no marketing survey of the customers of a department store would be satisfactory if it were limited to purchasers interviewed at the jewelry counter or to people found in the bargain basement. To be fully representative of all the customers, the sample should include customers of each departmentof the store and, moreover,it should include them in their true proportions. If a fixed percentage of the customers of each department is taken, the sample will be spread in a representative way over all the departments and will tend to include each of the different kinds of customers in its true proportion. For this sample the departments are taken to be the most important "strata" and hence the sampling is stratified by departments. For other samples it might be more advantageous to stratify by income level, family size, type of residence, or some other pertinent characteristic by which the customers could be classified. The basis for the stratification is chosen with reference to the purposes of the sampling and the conditions under which it must be done. Like other methods employed in sampling, stratification can be used most effectively when the manner in which it affects the variability of samples is fully understood. The benefits it provides are not always large enough to compensate for the labor and expense of stratifying; indeed, there may be no benefits at all in some instances. This paper will describe the results to be expected from stratification for various methods of sampling and for different sets of circumstances.
State of the art in treatment of facial paralysis with temporalis tendon transfer.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW Temporalis tendon transfer is a technique for dynamic facial reanimation. Since its inception, nearly 80 years ago, it has undergone a wealth of innovation to produce the modern operation. The purpose of this review is to update the literature as to the current techniques and perioperative management of patients undergoing temporalis tendon transfer. RECENT FINDINGS The modern technique focuses on the minimally invasive approaches and aesthetic refinements to enhance the final product of the operation. The newest techniques as well as preoperative assessment and postoperative rehabilitation are discussed. SUMMARY When temporalis tendon transfer is indicated for facial reanimation, the modern operation offers a refined technique that produces an aesthetically acceptable outcome. Preoperative smile assessment and postoperative smile rehabilitation are necessary and are important adjuncts to a successful operation.
Temple and State: Religion in Enlightenment Asia

Just as diamonds are formed from intense pressure, the diamonds of human culture – religion are formed from the crucible of hardship. The most challenging global period for East Asia occurred in the 19th and 20th centuries when thousands of years of tradition came face-to-face with industrialization. During this period, Buddhism faced difficult challenges especially regarding persecution and destruction. In spite of these inimical conditions, Buddhism would become a global religion, not only experiencing a revival in East Asia but also a receptive audience in the occidental world. One important genesis and microcosm for this activity can be seen between 1868 and 1926 in Japan and Korea. Buddhism became a powerful inspiration for statehood, forming the basis of kaewha (enlightenment) thought. It inspired and drove Koreans towards modernization and development. Indeed, Buddhism was instrumental in the search for identity and common ground between these two disparate cultures. Buddhism become the cornerstone of the self-strengthening movement and the bridge between the eastern and western worlds. For instance, we can see how this period created and formed Engaged Buddhism, inspired by Christian participation in society. In Japan, movements took the form of a Buddhist reformation where many scholars searched for the essential methods of Dharma. Such searching on behalf of truth-seekers as D.T. Suzuki and Uchiyama Gudō helped promote an essentialist and modern Buddhism. Moreover, this modern Buddhism led to a renaissance of the practices and teachings of the Buddha.
Analysis of iodine content in salt at household level from 2009′s surveillance results in Xinyang City

Objective To investigate iodized salt consumption of residents in Xinyang City,identify problems and take appropriate interventions timely.Methods According to the Henan Scheme for Surveying Iodinated Salt,9 samples of salt were randomly sampled from each batch in each first-degree wholesale enterprise every month.Meanwhile,9 towns were selected in 5 different directions of east,south,west,north and center in every county,among which 4 villages were furthermore selected in each selected town.Finally,8 samples of salt were randomly collected in each village.As a result,a total of 288 samples underwent the detection of iodine concentration.Results For household level,non-iodinated salt rate was 0.21%,iodinated salt covered 99.79% of the household,iodinated salt qualified rate was 97.18%,and edible qualified iodinated salt rate was 96.98%.Conclusions In terms of iodine salt index,we have fulfilled the aim of eliminating Iodine Deficiency Disorders(IDD) in advance;In some remote areas there were still non-iodized salt consumption and the impact of non-iodized salt,now approaching to urban areas.
Acquired and Congenital Hemolytic Anemia.

1. Suzie A. Noronha, MD* 1. *Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University of Rochester, Golisano Children’s Hospital, Rochester, NY. 1. Pediatricians and other general practitioners may not be aware of the significance of central nervous system disease in children who have sickle cell disease, particularly the more subtle silent infarct. 2. Pediatricians frequently fail to order a reticulocyte count or detect splenomegaly on physical examination before referring a patient with anemia. These findings are critical to diagnosing hemolytic anemia. After completing this article, the reader should be able to: 1. Recognize clinical features of hemolysis, including reticulocytosis and splenomegaly. 2. List the different types of acquired autoimmune hemolytic anemias that can manifest throughout childhood. 3. Understand the role of transfusion in the management of neurologic disease in patients who have sickle cell disease. 4. Review the spectrum of disease of α- and β-thalassemias. 5. Recognize clinical findings associated with hereditary spherocytosis. 6. Determine when to suspect glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency and how to counsel families on triggers to avoid. Hemolytic anemia (HA) affects a substantial proportion of the pediatric population globally. Many children are hospitalized every year due to sequelae of this heterogeneous disease. Clinicians should be facile in recognizing its presentation. HA may be defined as increased destruction of red blood cells (RBCs). RBCs are cleared from the circulation via extravascular or intravascular mechanisms (Figure). HA can be caused by congenital or acquired RBC abnormalities (Table 1). Figure. Mechanism of extravascular versus intravascular hemolysis. RBC=red blood cell. Courtesy of Jessica Shand, MD. View this table: Table 1. Classification of Common Hemolytic Anemias Extravascular hemolysis is mediated by the reticuloendothelial system (RES) of the spleen and liver. Most HAs, such as warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA), sickle cell disease (SCD), and hereditary spherocytosis (HS), are characterized by extravascular hemolysis. The hallmark of extravascular hemolysis is …
Surgical Residency Training at Massachusetts General Hospital

At the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in Boston (USA), as in the rest of the programs in the United States, training in surgery follows three patterns: 5 years of complete preparation for general surgery; 5 years of general surgery as a prelude to further subspecialization in plastic, cardiothoracic, vascular, colorectal, or pediatric surgery; or 1–2 years of partial training in general surgery as a preliminary to training in a different surgical discipline. The last category is exemplified by urology, neurosurgery, and orthopedics. Residents are selected by a national program matching applicant and hospital preferences after an on-site interview process involving the entire surgical faculty.
Red Dragons, Ice Dragons, and the Mars Colonial Transporter

Musk wants to go to Mars, but not just for a flags-and-footprints mission. He wants to establish a colony of up to 80,000 – that’s right: eighty thousand – people for the cost of about US$500,000 a ticket. To begin such an ambitious enterprise, a group of pioneers will travel to Mars boosted by a very, very big rocket fueled by liquid oxygen and methane. These Martian colonists – up to 100 of them – will travel in a very big spaceship called, appropriately enough, the Mars Colonial Transporter (MCT). But the MCT likely won’t be the first SpaceX vehicle to land on the Red Planet. The first of these vehicles is likely to be an unmanned mission that will make use of a Dragon variant – Red Dragon. And, following Red Dragon, there is just the slightest possibility that a certain one-way mission may make it to the surface using off-the-shelf Dragons. We’ll discuss these projects first before turning our attention to the MCT and the prospect of invading Mars.
Investigating Safety Effectiveness of Wyoming Snow Fence Installations Along a Rural Mountainous Freeway

Drifting and blowing snow is a problematic and dangerous aspect of Interstate travel in the state of Wyoming. The control of snow and the maintenance of roadways is an essential and significant task for many state and local agencies. Many significant factors—such as vehicle control, surface conditions, and visibility—can be affected by hazardous winter weather. In areas such as the inspected 19-mi section of Interstate 80, snow fences have become a common and practical method of mitigating the problems caused by large quantities of snow near or on the traveled way. Wyoming deals with a high rate of adverse weather–related crashes during the winter season. Naive before–after analyses of snow fence installations have historically indicated a slight decrease in such crashes. In this study, the safety effectiveness of snow fence installations was investigated; more rigorous quantitative-based approaches were used and included a before–after analysis with empirical Bayes—in which Wyoming-specific safety perfor...
Image reconstruction by domain-transform manifold learning

Image reconstruction is essential for imaging applications across the physical and life sciences, including optical and radar systems, magnetic resonance imaging, X-ray computed tomography, positron emission tomography, ultrasound imaging and radio astronomy. During image acquisition, the sensor encodes an intermediate representation of an object in the sensor domain, which is subsequently reconstructed into an image by an inversion of the encoding function. Image reconstruction is challenging because analytic knowledge of the exact inverse transform may not exist a priori, especially in the presence of sensor non-idealities and noise. Thus, the standard reconstruction approach involves approximating the inverse function with multiple ad hoc stages in a signal processing chain, the composition of which depends on the details of each acquisition strategy, and often requires expert parameter tuning to optimize reconstruction performance. Here we present a unified framework for image reconstruction-automated transform by manifold approximation (AUTOMAP)-which recasts image reconstruction as a data-driven supervised learning task that allows a mapping between the sensor and the image domain to emerge from an appropriate corpus of training data. We implement AUTOMAP with a deep neural network and exhibit its flexibility in learning reconstruction transforms for various magnetic resonance imaging acquisition strategies, using the same network architecture and hyperparameters. We further demonstrate that manifold learning during training results in sparse representations of domain transforms along low-dimensional data manifolds, and observe superior immunity to noise and a reduction in reconstruction artefacts compared with conventional handcrafted reconstruction methods. In addition to improving the reconstruction performance of existing acquisition methodologies, we anticipate that AUTOMAP and other learned reconstruction approaches will accelerate the development of new acquisition strategies across imaging modalities.
Homogenization and texture development in rapidly solidified AZ91E consolidated by Shear Assisted Processing and Extrusion (ShAPE)

Abstract Shear Assisted Processing and Extrusion (ShAPE) -a novel processing route that combines high shear and extrusion conditions- was evaluated as a processing method to densify melt spun magnesium alloy (AZ91E) flake materials. This study illustrates the microstructural regimes and transitions in crystallographic texture that occur as a result of applying simultaneous linear and rotational shear during extrusion. Characterization of the flake precursor and extruded tube was performed using scanning and transmission electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction and microindentation techniques. Results show a unique transition in the orientation of basal texture development. Despite the high temperatures involved during processing, uniform grain refinement and material homogenization are observed. These results forecast the ability to implement the ShAPE processing approach for a broader range of materials with novel microstructures and high performance.
Is the Grass Greener on the Other Side?: Idiosyncratic Deals, HR practices, and Social Comparison

Scholars studying idiosyncratic deals (I-deals) or employee-employer negotiated personalized employment arrangements have recognized the pivotal role played by these deals in eliciting employer des...
Intermediate Phases in Ternary Alloy Systems Of Transition Elements

The 1200°C isothermal sections of the following ternary phase diagrams were investigated: Cr-Co-Ni, Cr-Co-Fe, Cr-Co-Mo, and Cr-Ni-Mo. In all these systems the σ phase was found to form extended solid solutions. Two new ternary phases of unknown structure were identified. The existence range of intermediate phases of transition elements was correlated with 3d electron vacancy concentrations.
Mentoring Minority and Female Students: Recommendations for Improving Mentoring in Public Administration and Public Affairs Programs

Significant amounts of research have suggested how important mentoring is to success in academic careers. Studies have also explored the unique issues that arise for women and minorities in mentori...
Towards Second-Generation Synthetic Backbones for Antisense Oligonucleosides

The artificial control of gene expression by modified oligonucleotides (ONs) provides an exciting opportunity for the rational design of antisense ONs and, in particular, for the design of antiviral and antitumor ONs that can be used for therapeutic purposes.1 The effectiveness of antisense ONs in vitro and in vivo has been demonstrated by a first generation of phosphate-modified analogs such as phosphorothioates (PT)2 and methylphosphonates (MP).3 The initial choice of phosphate-modified ONs arose from their ease of synthesis and resistance to nuclease degradation. However, both the PT and MP modifications lead to the introduction of diastereoisomers, which results in a 2(n-1) mixture of diastereomers in the modified ONs. The presence of multiple diastereomers considerably weakens the capability of the ONs to hybridize with the target sequences. Duplexes formed between ON diesters and MP ONs of defined stereochemistry show an enhanced Tm relative to their racemic counterparts.1g Also, stereoselective automated synthesis for PT or MP is not available. Despite these stereochemical problems, both MP and PT ONs are clinical candidates at the present time.4 This is creating a need for cost-effective scale-up processes for producing MP and PT ONs. The demand is currently being met by a solid-support automated synthesis, which may not be suitable for producing drugs on a large-scale for human applications.2
Molecular-cellular interactions in the secretory IgA system.

The appearance of secretory-IgA (s-IgA) in external secretions is the result of the interaction between two cell types: plasma cells, which produce polymeric IgA (with J chain), and epithelial cells, which produce secretory component (SC) and facilitate the transport of the completed IgA molecule. It has been speculated that the accumulation of IgA plasmacytes in mucosal lamina propria and the interstitium of secretory glands is the consequence of a selective homing of IgA precursor cells from remote lymphoid tissue into secretory sites; this process may be mediated by the presence of SC on the surface of exocrine epithelial cells that attracts lymphoblasts bearing SC receptors (1–3). This contention is supported by observations of the lack of IgA cells in the exocrine lamina propria of an SC-deficient patient (4), and the detection of SC receptors on the surface of porcine lymphocytes (5).
Optical Determination of the Fundamental Energy Gap of Amorphous MoS3

The fundamental energy gap of amorphous MoS3 has been determined for the first time from a study of the absorption (1.24 ± 0.05 eV) and electrolyte electroreflectance (1.30 ± 0.05 eV) spectra of thin films prepared by an electrodeposition procedure. This is also the first report of thin films of this amorphous material.
Veterans in the Political Culture

Military service typically occurs at the crucial age when the individual is establishing the basis of an adult personality. It is, moreover, an experience involving both complete immersion and exposure to hazards. For most who have experienced it, this results in lifelong identification as veterans as well as above average participation in the political life of their nation. These veterans tend, generally, to be supportive of their nation’s goals and leaders. They can, however, express strong opposition to policies which they feel compromise the principles for which they fought.
Assessing the effects of water restrictions on socio-hydrologic resilience for shared groundwater systems

Abstract Groundwater resources are shared across management boundaries. Multiple management units that differ in scale, constraints and objectives may manage a shared resource in a decentralized approach. The interactions among water managers, water users, and the water resource components influence the performance of management strategies and the resilience of community-level water supply and groundwater availability. This research develops an agent-based modeling (ABM) framework to capture the dynamic interactions among household-level consumers and policy makers to simulate water demands. The ABM is coupled with a groundwater model to evaluate effects on the groundwater table. The framework is applied to explore trade-offs between improvements in water supply sustainability for local resources and water table changes at the basin-level. A group of municipalities are simulated as agents who share access to a groundwater aquifer in Verde River Basin, Arizona. The framework provides a holistic approach to incorporate water user, municipal, and basin level objectives in evaluating water reduction strategies for long-term water resilience.
Local genetic ancestry in CDKN2B-AS1 is associated with primary open-angle glaucoma in an African American cohort extracted from de-identified electronic health records

Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness in developed countries. Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), the most prevalent clinical subtype of glaucoma in the United States, affects African Americans at a higher rate compared with European Americans. Risk factors identified for POAG include increased age and family history, which coupled with heritability estimates, suggest this complex condition is associated with genetic and environmental factors. To date, several genome-wide studies have identified loci significantly associated with POAG risk, but most of these studies were performed in populations of European-descent. To identify population-specific and trans-population genetic associations for POAG, we genotyped 11,521 African Americans using the Illumina Metabochip as part of the Epidemiologic Architecture for Genes Linked to Environment (EAGLE) study accessing BioVU, the Vanderbilt University Medical Center’s biorepository linked to de-identified electronic health records. Among this study population, we identified 138 cases of POAG and 1376 controls and performed Metabochip-wide tests of association. We also estimated local genetic ancestry at CDKN2B-AS1, a POAG-associated locus established in European-descent populations. Overall, we did not identify significant single SNP-POAG associations after adjusting for multiple testing. We did, however, detect a significant association between POAG risk and local African genetic ancestry at CDKN2B-AS1, where on average cases were of 90% African descent compared with controls at 58% (p = 2 × 10− 6). These data suggest that CDKN2B-AS1 is an important locus for POAG risk among African Americans, warranting further investigation to identify the variants underlying this association.
Natural American Spirit Brand Preference among Smokers with Mental Illness.

Author(s): Epperson, Anna E; Anzai, Nicole E; Prochaska, Judith J | Abstract: IntroductionDespite steady declines in the US smoking prevalence over the past 50 years, Natural American Spirit cigarettes (NAS), marketed as natural and organic, have seen a 400% rise in sales. In a sample of smokers with mental illness, based on previous research, we hypothesized that preference for NAS would be associated with younger age, higher education, and a stronger health-orientation.MethodsAdult smokers were interviewed during acute psychiatric hospitalization in California between 2009-2013, reporting their preferred top 3 brands of cigarettes, smoking behaviors, self-rated health, and dietary and physical activity behaviors. The sample (N=956; M age=38.7, SD=13.5; 48.7% women) identified as 14.5% Hispanic ethnicity and 49.6% White, 23.7% African American, and 23.8% other race.ResultsNAS was identified as a top preferred brand by 15.2% of participants and was the fourth most popular brand for the sample overall. In a multivariate logistic regression, preference for NAS was significantly greater among participants who were younger (OR=0.97), had some college education or more (OR=2.64 to 4.31), ate a low-fat diet (OR=1.56) and reported better overall health (OR=1.26), p'sl.05. Identifying as Hispanic ethnicity (OR=1.80) and White race (OR=3.00) also predicted NAS preference, p'sl.05. NAS preference did not differ by gender or psychiatric diagnosis.ConclusionsStudy findings indicate greater NAS brand appeal among smokers living with mental illness who are younger, more highly educated, and have a stronger orientation to health, perhaps because they perceive NAS to be a healthier cigarette to smoke. Marketing language that obscures the harms of smoking ought to be prohibited.
User experience of controlling the DEKA Arm with EMG pattern recognition.

Introduction A commercially available EMG Pattern Recognition (EMG-PR) control system was adapted to interface with the multi-degree of freedom (DOF) DEKA Arm. Purpose To describe users' experience of controlling the DEKA Arm using EMG-PR. Methods Sample: Twelve persons with upper limb amputation participated, 10 with transradial (TR), 2 with transhumeral (TH) level amputation. Ten were male, and 11 were users of a prosthesis at baselines. Design: This was a two-part study consisting of in-laboratory prosthetic training (Part A) and up to 12 weeks of home use of the prosthesis (Part B). Data collection: Qualitative data were collected through open-ended survey questions and semi-structured interviews. Data Analysis: The study used a qualitative case series design with a constant comparative approach to identify common categories of experience. Coding categories were iteratively refined until saturation of categories was achieved. The data were organized in a primary category, major categories of experience, factors impacting experience, and broader contextual factors. Results Users had mixed perspectives on the desirability of the EMG-PR control system in combination with the DEKA Arm. Major aspects of user experience related to the system complexity, process of calibrating, and functional benefits. Factors influencing user experience included training and acclimation, fatigue, prosthesis design, technical issues and control changes. Broader contextual factors, both personal and environmental, also impacted users' experience. Discussion/conclusion This study provided an in-depth description of user experience operating the DEKA Arm using EMG-PR control. The majority of participants expressed a preference for the controls of their personal prosthesis and controls rather than the iteration of EMG-PR controlled DEKA Arm used in this study. Most were positive about the future potential of EMG-PR as a control method. An understanding of patient experience will assist clinicians and patients choosing prosthetic options.
Effector CD4 T cells with stem cell-like properties mediate chronic intestinal inflammation

Increased IFNγ production is a hallmark of mucosal CD4 T cells in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients; however, the role of this cell population in intestinal inflammation remains controversial. To elucidate this, viable IFNγ producing and non-producing CD4 T cells were isolated from mice with colitis and examined for the ability to confer disease. Paradoxical to the proinflammatory nature of IFNγ, CD4 T cells producing IFNγ cause attenuated pathology upon transfer, while IFNγ non-producing cells result in severe intestinal inflammation. The pathogenic IFNγ non-producing cells exhibit a “stem cell-like” gene expression pattern, maintaining genes associated with multipotency including Sell, Tcf7, Lef1 , Klf2, and Wnt10a . Consistent with the “stem cell-like” gene signature, IFNγ non-producing CD4 T cells show higher cell survival, superior mitochondrial function, as well as functional plasticity. Conversely, IFNγ producing CD4 T cells express terminal differentiation markers, such as Klrg1, Tim3, Zeb2 and Prdm1 , and are more susceptible to cell death. These divergent phenotypes correlate with the glycosyltransferase ST6Gal1. IFNγ nonproducing cells maintain higher levels of St6gal1 mRNA during colitis, while IFNγ producing cells downregulate St6gal1 gene expression. Furthermore, when IFNγ nonproducing cells lose ST6Gal1 activity, they become terminally differentiated, more susceptible to apoptosis and less pathogenic compared to IFNγ nonproducing cells with high ST6Gal1 activity. Together, these data indicate that effector CD4 T cells exist in a spectrum of differentiation states during IBD, from stem cell-like to terminally differentiated, which are associated with IFNγ production and ST6Gal1 activity.
Knowledge productivity and the returns to agricultural research: a review

This paper describes the identification, specification, estimation, and evaluation of econometric models of knowledge productivity and the returns‐to‐research. General issues related to these models are discussed and placed in context of the literature. The path from R&D investment to economic benefit is complex, convoluted, generally unknown and possibly misrepresented. The complexity arises from the intricate spatial spillover relationships and the very long time periods involved, which complicate any econometric analysis. The relevant R&D investment data are typically unavailable, incomplete and poorly measured (or approximated). The appropriate calculation of the financial benefit is not entirely clear. Some parsimonious suggestions for future research are presented.
A zebrafish FASD model for congenital heart defects

Mothers who drink during pregnancy expose their developing babies to ethanol, and excessive drinking often produces devastating birth defects collectively termed fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FA...
Tests of thyroid function

Thyroid disorders are common. At least 5% of the adult population in Western countries have hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, goitre or a nodule in the thyroid. Most of those with a goitre or nodule are euthyroid, but laboratory confirmation of this is required. Laboratory documentation of abnormal thyroid function is very important, because treatment, whether for hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, is often lifelong and therefore should not be based on clinical opinion alone. Suspected thyroid disease is more common than true dysfunction. The tired, depressed, overweight, nervous, infertile, irritable, thin and comatose are all at risk of having their thyroid function tested.
Networked Zwitterionic Durable Antibacterial Surfaces

Recently, intensive research has been conducted on the development of bacterial repelling surfaces because of the disadvantages of the conventional bactericidal leaching and contact-killing surface...
4 – The power of linear models

Publisher Summary This chapter develops the theme that making inferences from data occurs when the data are distilled down to a few parameters in a quantitative model of a physical process. An integral part of the process of analyzing data is the development of an appropriate quantitative model. Such a model links to the questions that one aspires to answer, to the parameters on which the model depends, and, ultimately, to the data. One shows that many quantitative models are linear in form and are therefore very easy to formulate and manipulate using the techniques of linear algebra. The method of least squares, which provides a means of estimating model parameters from data and a rule for propagating error are introduced in this chapter.
Factors Associated with Formula Feeding among Late Preterm Neonates.

Objective Late preterm births (delivery at 34-36 weeks) account for nearly three quarters of the preterm births and among them there is a knowledge gap about an important aspect of infant care: breast versus formula feeding. The aim of this study was to assess factors associated with formula feeding in late preterm neonates. Study design Secondary analysis of a multicenter randomized trial of antenatal corticosteroids for women at risk for late preterm birth. All women with a singleton pregnancy who delivered at 340/7 to 366/7 weeks were included. Women with no information on neonatal feeding or known fetal anomalies were excluded. The outcome evaluated was the type of neonatal feeding during hospital stay. Maternal and neonatal characteristics were compared among women who initiated breast versus formula feeding. Adjusted relative risks (aRRs) for formula feeding with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Results Of the 2,831 women in the parent trial, 2,329 (82%) women met inclusion criteria and among them, 696 (30%) were formula feeding. After multivariable regression, the following characteristics were associated with an increased risk of formula feeding: maternal age 12 years (aRR: 0.81, 95% CI 0.69-0.96), and nulliparity (aRR 0.71, 95% CI: 0.62-0.82) were associated with a reduced risk for formula feeding. Conclusion In this geographically diverse cohort of high-risk deliveries, 3 out 10 late preterm newborns were formula fed. Smoking cessation was a modifiable risk factor that may diminish the rate of formula feeding among late preterm births. Key points · Three of ten late preterm do not benefit from breastfeeding.. · Demographic characteristics are associated with type of feeding.. · Smoking cessation may improve the rate of breastfeeding..
Consumer Knowledge and Behaviors Regarding Food Safety Risks Associated with Wheat Flour.

ABSTRACT Consumers do not consider flour, a low-moisture food product, a high risk for microbial contamination. In the past 10 years, however, flour has been identified as a source of pathogenic bacteria, including Salmonella and Escherichia coli. Online surveys were conducted to study consumers' flour handling practices and knowledge about food safety risks related to flour. The survey also evaluated message impact on three food safety messages in communicating information and convincing consumers to adopt safe flour handling practices. Flour-using consumers (n = 1,045) from the United States reported they used flour to make cakes, cookies, and bread. Most consumers stored flour in sealed containers. Less than 1% kept a record of product identification numbers, such as lot numbers, and less than 11% kept brand and use-by date information. Many consumers (85%) were unaware of flour recalls, or outbreaks, and few (17%) believed they would be affected by flour recalls or outbreaks. If the recall affected the flour they bought, nearly half of the consumers (47%) would buy the same product from a different brand for a few months before they returned to the recalled brand. Among consumers who use flour to bake, 66% said they ate raw cookie dough or batter. Raw dough "eaters" were more difficult to convince to avoid eating and playing with raw flour than "noneaters." Food safety messages were less impactful on those raw dough eaters than noneaters. Compared with the food safety message with only recommendations, those messages with recommendations and an explanation as to the benefits of the practice were more effective in convincing consumers to change their practices. These findings provide insight into effective consumer education about safe flour handling practices and could assist in the accurate development of risk assessment models related to flour handling. HIGHLIGHTS
Lipocalin-1 is the acceptor protein for phospholipid transfer protein in tears.

Phospholipid transfer protein, ∼80 kDa, transfers phospholipids from micelles to lipid binding proteins. The acceptor protein in plasma is apolipoprotein-A1, 28 kDa. Previously, phospholipid transfer protein was found in tears but an acceptor protein was not identified. To search for the acceptor protein(s) in tears a fluorescent phospholipid transfer assay was altered to omit the extrinsic acceptor. Human tears were incubated with fluorescent micelles and showed marked transfer activity verifying a native acceptor protein must be present. Reconstituted tears without tear lipocalin (lipocalin-1) eliminated the transfer of phospholipids. To determine if phospholipid transfer protein is involved in carrying phospholipid to the surface of tears from tear lipocalin, a fraction enriched in phospholipid transfer protein was injected into the subphase of a tear mimicking buffer in which tear lipocalin was present. The addition of phospholipid transfer protein did not increase the thickness of the surface layer regardless of the presence of lipid bearing tear lipocalin. The data show that phospholipid transfer protein transfers phospholipid from micelles to tear lipocalin. Phospholipid transfer protein does not transport the phospholipid. While tear lipocalin has no intrinsic transfer activity from micelles, it is the acceptor protein for phospholipid transfer protein in tears.
0.5T0.5R—An Ultracompact RRAM Cell Uniquely Enabled by van der Waals Heterostructures

Conventional designs of the extensively studied resistive-random access-memory (RRAM) cell involve one transistor and one RRAM—“1T1R,” i.e., two separate devices thereby constraining its integration density. In this work, we overcome this longstanding limitation by experimentally demonstrating a novel memory architecture that combines the 1T and 1R into a single hybrid device by uniquely leveraging both lateral and vertical van der Waals (vdW) heterostructures. This ultracompact device, which can be considered as a “0.5T0.5R” memory cell, reduces the device count by half—the first of its kind in RRAM technology history, and simultaneously allows higher lateral as well as vertical (3-D) integration density w.r.t. the conventional 1T1R architecture. The unique “smart” device that can retain information after power is turned off is structurally designed by utilizing a shared graphene edge-contact and resistively switchable hexagonal boron nitride ( ${h}$ -BN) insulator. Aided by design optimization, record performance ( 1000), benchmarked against current vdW-material-based RRAM devices, have been achieved by this 0.5T0.5R memory cell. Moreover, the RRAM’s fine tunability with ultrashort pulsewidth, pulse amplitude, and gate voltage, enables synaptic plasticity and makes it an integrated three-terminal RRAM with considerable potential for neuromorphic and in-memory computing applications.
Exogenous Cushing’s Syndrome, Hypogonadism and Diabetes Secondary to Megestrol Acetate

Introduction: Megestrol acetate (MA) is a synthetic progestin that is often prescribed for anorexic patients with HIV due to its effects on weight gain and appetite stimulation. It can cause several endocrine/metabolic abnormalities. Chronic use of MA can cause exogenous Cushing’s Syndrome (ECS) and iatrogenic adrenal insufficiency (AI) due to its stronger affinity for the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). It can also cause gonadotropin suppression, diabetes and hyperprolactinemia. We present a case of a young woman with perinatal HIV/AIDS that developed ECS secondary to MA treatment in the setting of fatigue, rapid weight gain and irregular menses. Case: A 19 year old female with perinatal HIV/AIDS (CD4<200) was treated with MA (200mg/day for 5 months) for anorexia and weight loss. On exam she was pre-hypertensive (BP 138/62), obese (BMI 43.07, SDS +2.25; weight 114kg, SDS +2.34) with increased fat deposition over upper back and abdominal striae, excessive weight gain (21.5 kg in 5 months) suggestive of ECS. She had menarche at 13 years of age and had regular menses until starting MA, upon which she developed oligomenorrhea. A random serum cortisol level was <0.5ug/dl at 1pm with a low ACTH <1.5pg/ml and DHEAS of 13.4ug/dl. Her FSH was 3.4 mIU/L and LH 0.82 mIU/L, estradiol was <2pg/dl and total testosterone <2.5ng/dl consistent with secondary hypogonadism. Liver/kidney function, prolactin and lipid profile were normal. HbA1c increased from 5.3 to 6.4% in 8 months so she was started on metformin. ECS with AI, central hypogonadism and diabetes were all attributed to MA therapy. MA was discontinued gradually over two weeks. Stress dosing of glucocorticoids were advised as needed. Results: Gradual recovery of HPA axis was noted after discontinuation of MA. Two months after taper, serum ACTH level rose to 2.5pg/ml but AM cortisol level remained low at <0.5ug.dl. Her HPA axis showed partial recovery by 5 months with ACTH level of 53.2pg/ml and AM cortisol level of 5.5ug/dl. By 8 months after discontinuing MA therapy, AM cortisol was 9.3ug/dl, suggesting complete HPA axis recovery. Her HPG axis also normalized by 8 months with FSH 6.6 mIU/L and LH of 14.6 mIU/L, estradiol 32pg/dl with regular menses. Metformin was discontinued at 4 months due to hypoglycemia and HbA1C of 5.7%. Subsequently, euglycemia was achieved (HbA1C of 5.4%) within 9 months. BMI was stable (BMI 43.07, SDS +2.25; weight 114kg, SDS +2.34). Conclusion: Multiple endocrine abnormalities may occur due to MA therapy due to its affinity to bind with glucocorticoid and progesterone/androgen receptors. ECS and AI are known to occur with various forms of glucocorticoid use, but rarely can be seen with MA therapy. HPA axis, HPG axis and metabolic parameters should be evaluated and monitored carefully during MA therapy.
Associations between frailty and cancer-specific mortality among older women with breast cancer

Frailty is assessed when making treatment decisions among older women with breast cancer (BC), which in turn impacts survival. We evaluated associations between pre-diagnosis frailty and risks of BC-specific and all-cause mortality in older women. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of Medicare beneficiaries ages ≥ 65 years with stage I–III BC using the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results-Medicare Health Outcome Survey Data Resource. Frailty was measured using the deficit-accumulation frailty index, categorized as robust, pre-frail, or frail, at baseline and during follow-up. Fine and Gray competing risk and Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate subdistribution hazard ratios (SHR) and hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for BC-specific and all-cause mortality, respectively. Among 2411 women with a median age of 75 years at BC diagnosis, 49.5% were categorized as robust, 29.4% were pre-frail and 21.1% were frail. Fewer frail women compared to robust women received breast-conserving surgery (52.8% vs. 61.5%, frail vs. robust, respectively) and radiation (43.5% vs. 51.8%). In multivariable analyses, degree of frailty was not associated with BC-specific mortality (frail vs robust SHR 1.47, 95% CI 0.97–2.24). However, frail women with BC had higher risks of all-cause mortality compared to robust women with BC (HR 2.32, 95% CI 1.84–2.92). Among a cohort of older women with BC, higher degrees of frailty were associated with higher risk of all-cause mortality, but not BC-specific mortality. Future study should examine if preventing progression of frailty may improve all-cause mortality.