cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Scale Dependence of Halo and Galaxy Bias: Effects in Real Space

We examine the scale dependence of dark matter halo and galaxy clustering on very large scales ($0.01lk[h\text{ }\text{ }{\mathrm{Mpc}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}]l0.15$), due to nonlinear effects from dynamics and halo bias. We pursue a two line offensive: high-resolution numerical simulations are used to establish some old and some new results, and an analytic model is developed to understand their origins. Our simulations show: (i) that the $z=0$ dark matter power spectrum is suppressed relative to linear theory by $\ensuremath{\sim}5%$ on scales $0.05lk[h\text{ }\text{ }{\mathrm{Mpc}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}]l0.075$; (ii) that, indeed, halo bias is nonlinear over the scales we probe and that the scale dependence is a strong function of halo mass. High mass haloes show no suppression of power on scales $kl0.07[h\text{ }\text{ }{\mathrm{Mpc}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}]$, and only show amplification on smaller scales, whereas low mass haloes show strong, $\ensuremath{\sim}5%--10%$, suppression over the range $0.05lk[h\text{ }\text{ }{\mathrm{Mpc}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}]l0.15$. These results were primarily established through the use of the cross-power spectrum of dark matter and haloes, which circumvents the thorny issue of shot-noise correction. The halo-halo power spectrum, however, is highly sensitive to the shot-noise correction; we show that halo exclusion effects make this sub-Poissonian and a new correction is presented. Our results have special relevance for studies of the baryon acoustic oscillation features in the halo power spectra. Nonlinear mode-mode coupling: (i) damps these features on progressively larger scales as halo mass increases; (ii) produces small shifts in the positions of the peaks and troughs which depend on halo mass. We show that these effects on halo clustering are important over the redshift range relevant to such studies $(0lzl2)$, and so will need to be accounted for when extracting information from precision measurements of galaxy clustering. Our analytic model is described in the language of the ``halo model.'' The halo-halo clustering term is propagated into the nonlinear regime using ``1-loop'' perturbation theory and a nonlinear halo bias model. Galaxies are then inserted into haloes through the halo occupation distribution. We show that, with nonlinear bias parameters derived from simulations, this model produces predictions that are qualitatively in agreement with our numerical results. We then use it to show that the power spectra of red and blue galaxies depend differently on scale, thus underscoring the fact that proper modeling of nonlinear bias parameters will be crucial to derive reliable cosmological constraints. In addition to showing that the bias on very large scales is not simply linear, the model also shows that the halo-halo and halo-dark matter spectra do not measure precisely the same thing. This complicates interpretation of clustering in terms of the stochasticity of bias. However, because the shot-noise correction is nontrivial, evidence for this in the simulations is marginal.
Simulation to Implement a Novel System of Care for Pediatric Critical Airway Obstruction

Objective To implement a novel system of care for pediatric critical airway obstruction. Design Retrospective, observational study of data gathered prospectively during high-fidelity simulations. Setting Emergency department (ED) and operating rooms (ORs) of a pediatric referral center. Subjects Health care provider simulation participants. Main Outcome Measures Time from ED attending physician request to arrival of an otolaryngologist, participant survey responses, identified latent safety threats, and simulated patient outcomes. Methods Twelve high-fidelity simulations were conducted: 6 to identify problems with an existing system of care, and 6 to implement a novel system. The simulation scenarios involved a 4-year-old patient with severe respiratory distress after foreign-body aspiration managed solely in the ED or in the ED and OR, depending on stability. Results There were 196 participants in 12 simulations. The mean (SD) time from ED attending physician request to otolaryngologist arrival was 7.8 (1.6) minutes for the existing system simulations and 5.0 (1.1) minutes for the novel system (P = .001). Latent safety threats identified in the simulations included a lack of specialized airway equipment in the ED. Death of the simulated patient occurred in the ED in 2 of 6 existing system simulations; specialized airway equipment was available for neither. For the novel system simulations, specialized airway equipment was available for all 6, no simulated patient deaths occurred. Conclusions High-fidelity simulation was an effective method to design and implement a novel system of care for pediatric critical airway obstruction. The novel system was associated with more rapid response times and elimination of simulated patient deaths.
Cerebrospinal Fluid Leakage: Agarose Gel Electrophoresis Detection of β2-Transferrin and Nephelometric Quantification of β-Trace Protein

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage may occur with head trauma, surgery, inflammation, tumors, or congenital malformations. Determining the presence of CSF leakage is important so the leakage can be repaired and treatment can be initiated to prevent infection in the central nervous system. In this study, electrophoretic methods using three different detection systems for β2-transferrin (β2Trf) were compared with a nephelometric method for β-trace protein (βTP) for ease of use and sensitivity in the clinical laboratory setting to diagnose CSF leakage. Results were compared for 30 samples that had been submitted to the clinical laboratory for assessment of CSF leakage. Detection of β2Trf has been used as an endogenous marker to identify CSF in fluids to diagnose CSF leaks (1)(2)(3)(4). Transferrin that migrates in the β-1 electrophoretic fraction (β1Trf) is found in most body fluids. β2Trf is used as a CSF-specific variant of transferrin, but it is also found in the aqueous humor and serum of patients with rare metabolic glycoprotein disorders or genetic variants of transferrin. If β1Trf and β2Trf are detected in drainage fluids by electrophoresis and subsequent immunodetection, the specimen is presumed to be contaminated with CSF. The first electrophoresis method we evaluated used Titan Gel Silver Stain reagents (Helena) and anti-transferrin immunofixation. Samples, a negative control (serum), and a known positive control (CSF) were electrophoresed on the Titan Gel and immunofixed with 600 μL of anti-human transferrin that was diluted with 1200 μL of saline (1:3 dilution; DiaSorin Inc.); antigen-antibody complexes were then stained with Titan …
Genome Sequences of 228 Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli Isolates and 12 Isolates Representing Other Diarrheagenic E. coli Pathotypes.

ABSTRACT Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) are a common cause for food-borne diarrheal illness outbreaks and sporadic cases. Here, we report the availability of the draft genome sequences of 228 STEC strains representing 32 serotypes with known pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) types and epidemiological relationships, as well as 12 strains representing other diarrheagenic E. coli pathotypes.
Applying PRECEDE-PROCEED to Develop an Intuitive Eating Nondieting Approach to Weight Management Pilot Program.

Abstract Objective To describe the use of a consolidated version of the PRECEDE-PROCEED participatory program planning model to collaboratively design an intuitive eating program with Fort Drum military spouses tailored to their readiness to reject the dieting mentality and make healthful lifestyle modifications. Design A consolidated version of PRECEDE-PROCEED guided demographic, epidemiological, behavioral, organizational, and administrative diagnosis through survey research. Focus groups composed of planning/steering committee members diagnosed environmental, organizational, administrative. and policy considerations. Objectives were set for each phase to assist with program tailoring. Setting Recruitment at Fort Drum Army Installation, NY, summer 2004. Participants Ninety-one military health beneficiaries aged 20-65 years of age completed the pilot-tested survey packet. Phenomenon of Interest The survey assessed quality of life issues, Diet Mentality, Healthy Eating Index, and Intuitive Eating Stages of Change scores, and desired program mix. Analysis Mean and mode of survey responses and scores. Results A 10-week “My Body Knows When” intuitive eating program was tailored to increase attendance, reduce barriers, and increase successful rejection of a dieting mentality. Conclusions and Implications A consolidated version of PRECEDE-PROCEED efficiently guided participatory planning to tailor this program.
Online Estimation and Identifiability of Cable Parameters Using Passive Monitoring

One method for diagnostic and prognostic evaluation of cable health is online estimation and tracking of physics-based parameters. In certain applications it is beneficial to passively monitor voltages and currents and subsequently estimate model parameters. However, passive monitoring requires a means to evaluate if and when the uncontrolled inputs are sufficient to excite the modeled dynamics. If the system dynamics cannot be observed the corresponding parameters cannot be estimated. In this paper, identifiability requirements of the observed input-output signals for standard models are investigated. Equivalent line circuit models are evaluated in forms allowing for recursive parameter estimation and with a minimum number of independent parameters.
What Do We Know About Variance in Accounting Profitability

In this paper, we analyze the variance of accounting profitability among a broad cross-section of forms in the American economy from 1981 to 1994. The purpose of the analysis is to identify the importance of year, industry, corporate-parent, and business-specific effects on accounting profitability among operating businesses across sectors. The findings indicate that industry and corporate-parent effects are important and related to one another. As expected, business-specific effects, which arise from competitive positioning and other factors, have a large influence on performance. The analysis reconciles the results of previous studies by exploring differences in method and data. We also identify the broad contributions and limitations of the research, and suggest avenues for further study. New approaches are necessary to generate significant insights about the relationships between industry, corporate-parent, and business influences on firm profitability.
Novel RF devices with multiple capacitively-coupled electrodes

We present operation concepts and performance characteristics of novel microwave devices and structures using Oxide-AlGaN/GaN Heterostructures with multiple capacitively-coupled contacts (C3). The C3 electrodes do not require annealing and, hence, such devices with tight electrode spacing can be fabricated using a self-aligned process. To illustrate the advantages of C3 - technology, we demonstrate multi-gate C3- RF switches, RF switches with side control electrodes and novel RF-TLM test structures for layer and contact parameter extraction.
Latching characteristics of a CMOS bistable register

Closed-form solutions describing the output response of a CMOS bistable register are presented. From these results, the fundamental latching behavior of a CMOS register is developed in terms of its physical and circuit characteristics. Necessary and sufficient conditions for latching data are described in terms of small signal circuit parameters. From these necessary and sufficient conditions, the limiting requirement for latching, which provides the minimum let-up time and conditions for defining the onset of metastability, is presented and verified. >
Regularized Co-Clustering with Dual Supervision

By attempting to simultaneously partition both the rows (examples) and columns (features) of a data matrix, Co-clustering algorithms often demonstrate surprisingly impressive performance improvements over traditional one-sided row clustering techniques. A good clustering of features may be seen as a combinatorial transformation of the data matrix, effectively enforcing a form of regularization that may lead to a better clustering of examples (and vice-versa). In many applications, partial supervision in the form of a few row labels as well as column labels may be available to potentially assist co-clustering. In this paper, we develop two novel semi-supervised multi-class classification algorithms motivated respectively by spectral bipartite graph partitioning and matrix approximation formulations for co-clustering. These algorithms (i) support dual supervision in the form of labels for both examples and/or features, (ii) provide principled predictive capability on out-of-sample test data, and (iii) arise naturally from the classical Representer theorem applied to regularization problems posed on a collection of Reproducing Kernel Hilbert Spaces. Empirical results demonstrate the effectiveness and utility of our algorithms.
A task-based approach for Gene Ontology evaluation

Background: The Gene Ontology and its associated annotations are critical tools for interpreting lists of genes. Here, we introduce a method for evaluating the Gene Ontology annotations and structure based on the impact they have on gene set enrichment analysis, along with an example implementation. This task-based approach yields quantitative assessments grounded in experimental data and anchored tightly to the primary use of the annotations. Results: Applied to specific areas of biological interest, our framework allowed us to understand the progress of annotation and structural ontology changes from 2004 to 2012. Our framework was also able to determine that the quality of annotations and structure in the area under test have been improving in their ability to recall underlying biological traits. Furthermore, we were able to distinguish between the impact of changes to the annotation sets and ontology structure. Conclusion: Our framework and implementation lay the groundwork for a powerful tool in evaluating the usefulness of the Gene Ontology. We demonstrate both the flexibility and the power of this approach in evaluating the current and past state of the Gene Ontology as well as its applicability in developing new methods for creating gene annotations.
Functionalizations of [6]- and [7]helicenes at their most sterically hindered positions.

Although the reactions of enol ethers of aryl methyl ketones with benzoquinone make it easy to prepare nonracemic helicenes that are substituted by hydroxyl groups at their 1,ω-positions, the hydroxyl groups fail to facilitate the introduction of electrophiles ortho to them. However, ethers of [6]- and [7]helicenols prepared in this way, seemingly because of the activation by the alkoxyl groups at the 6-positions, combine with electrophilic reagents to introduce bromines and acyl groups exactly into these positions. Moreover, these bromine and acyl groups can be transformed into other functional groups (including phosphine oxides and acetylenes), the ether functions adjacent to these functional groups can then be removed, and the phenols can be oxidized to quinone-acetals. An alternative way to introduce functional groups next to the phenols is to rearrange their phosphate esters. Two reactions that differentiate the ends of the helicenes are also described.
Comparison of CO2 trapping in highly heterogeneous reservoirs with Brooks-Corey and van Genuchten type capillary pressure curves

Abstract Geological heterogeneities affect the dynamics of carbon dioxide (CO2) plumes in subsurface environments in important ways. Previously, we showed how the dynamics of CO2 plumes are influenced by the multiscaled sedimentary architecture in deep brine fluvial-type reservoirs. The results confirm that representing small-scale features and the corresponding heterogeneity in saturation functions, along with hysteresis in saturation functions, are all critical to understanding capillary trapping processes. Here, we show that when heterogeneity and hysteresis are represented, the two conventional approaches for defining saturation functions, Brooks-Corey and van Genuchten, represent fundamentally different physical systems. The Brooks-Corey approach represents heterogeneity in entry pressures, and leads to trapping by capillary pinning. The van Genuchten approach represents a network of pores transporting the nonwetting fluid, across rock types, with negligible capillary entry pressure, and leads to capillary retardation. These differences significantly affect the large-scale characteristics of CO2 plumes (i.e., their mass, shape, and position).
Computation of the Lyapunov measure for almost everywhere stochastic stability

In our recent work [1], we introduced Lyapunov measure as a new tool to verify weaker set-theoretic notion of almost everywhere stability of stochastic nonlinear systems. A Linear transfer Perron-Frobenius operator for stochastic systems was used to provide an explicit formula for the Lyapunov measure, verifying almost everywhere almost sure stability of stochastic systems. The focus of this paper is on the computational aspect of the Lyapunov measure for stochastic systems. We used set-oriented numerical methods for the finite dimensional approximation of the linear operator and the Lyapunov measure. Stability results in the finite dimensional approximation space are also presented. In particular, we show the finite dimensional approximation leads to a further weaker notion of stability referred to as coarse stability.
Electrodeposition of Epitaxial Magnetite Films and Ferrihydrite Nanoribbons on Single-crystal Gold

Magnetite (Fe3O4), ferrihydrite (Fe10O14(OH)2), and iron (Fe) films were electrodeposited by cathodic deposition from an alkaline Fe(III)−triethanolamine solution. The electrodeposited phase depended on the applied potential. Magnetite films were electrodeposited from −1.01 to −1.10 V vs Ag/AgCl, whereas ferrihydrite films were deposited from −1.10 to −1.20 V vs Ag/AgCl. Iron deposition occurred at more negative potentials. The polycrystalline films were characterized using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and Mossbauer spectroscopy. Epitaxial magnetite films on low-index gold crystals were produced at three different potentials. X-ray diffraction analysis of the magnetite films deposited at −1.01, −1.05, and −1.10 V vs Ag/AgCl showed [111] oriented films on Au(111) and Au(001). Because of twinning of the {111} planes, the [511] orientation was present in thicker films. Magnetite grew with a [110] orientation on Au(110). At the more negative potentials of −1.10 and −1.20 V vs Ag/AgCl, ferr...
Information fusion for the Gray Zone

United States Special Operations Command (SOCOM) recently published a white paper describing the “Gray Zone”, security challenges characterized by “ambiguity about the nature of the conflict, opacity of the parties involved…competitive interactions among and within state and non-state actors that fall between the traditional war and peace duality.”1 Ambiguity and related uncertainty about actors, situations, relationships, and intent require new approaches to information collection, processing and fusion. General Votel, the current SOCOM commander, during a recent speech on “Operating in the Gray Zone” emphasized that it would be important to get left of the next crises and stated emphatically, “to do that we must understand the Human Domain.”2 This understanding of the human domain must come from making meaning based on different perspectives, including the “emic” or first person/participant and “etic” or third person/observer perspectives. Much of the information currently collected and processed is etic. Incorporation and fusion with the emic perspective enables forecasting of behaviors/events and provides context for etic information (e.g., video).3 Gray zone challenges are perspective-dependent; for example, the conflict in Ukraine is interpreted quite differently by Russia, the US and Ukraine. Russia views it as war, necessitating aggressive action, the US views it as a security issue best dealt with by economic sanctions and diplomacy and the Ukraine views it as a threat to its sovereignty.4 General Otto in the Air Force ISR 2023 vision document stated that Air Force ISR is needed to anticipate strategic surprise.5 Anticipatory analysis enabling getting left of a crisis inherently requires a greater focus on information sources that elucidate the human environment as well as new methods that elucidate not only the “who’s” and “what’s”, but the “how’s and “why’s,” extracting features and/or patterns and subtle cues useful for forecasting behaviors and events; for example discourse patterns related to social identity and integrative complexity.6 AFRL has been conducting research to enable analysts to understand the “emic” perspective based on discourse analysis methods and/or text analytics.7 Previous results demonstrated the value of fusion of emic and etic information in terms of improved accuracy (from 39% to 86%) in forecasting violent events.8 This paper will describe new work to extend this to anticipatory analysis in the gray zone.
Changes in serum concentrations of luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone following injection of gonadotropin-releasing hormone during pregnancy and after parturition in mares.

High concentrations of estrogens in the peripheral circulation during late gestation inhibit synthesis of LH and markedly reduce pituitary content of LH at the end of pregnancy in most domestic species. Because blood concentrations of estrogen peak shortly before mid-gestation in the mare and then gradually decrease until parturition, we hypothesized that pituitary content of LH may increase during late gestation. To test this hypothesis 10 horse mares were challenged with a maximally stimulatory dose (2 micrograms/kg) of GnRH on d 240 and 320 of gestation and d 3 after parturition. A separate group of four mares were treated with GnRH on d 2 or 3 estrus. Blood samples were collected at -2, -1, 0, .25, .5, .75, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 h relative to injection of GnRH and serum was analyzed for concentration of LH and FSH. Basal serum concentration and total quantity of LH released after GnRH stimulation (assessed by determining the area under the response curve) were not different on d 240 and 320 of gestation or on d 3 after parturition (12.5 +/- 3.5, 5.7 +/- 1.5 and 29.1 +/- 12.1 ng.min/ml, respectively) and were less (P less than .05) than on d 3 of estrus (311.0 +/- 54.0 ng.min/ml). There was little difference in the basal serum concentration of FSH at any of the time points examined. In contrast, GnRH-induced release of FSH continually decreased (P less than .05) from d 240 of gestation (559.8 +/- 88.9 ng.min/ml) to d 3 of estrus (51.8 +/- 6.2 ng.min/ml).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Toward an Aesthetics of Engagement

In this chapter, I describe some principle ideas informing and shaping of a therapeutic practice I refer to as aesthetics of engagement with struggling others. An aesthetics of engagement within the therapeutic context consists of multiple influences that continue to provide grounding and a framework for practice, yet a practice remaining open to additional inspirations. Accordingly, in this chapter, I describe philosophical, theological, and theoretical perspectives that have contributed toward this practice. The perspectives described in this chapter represent a synthesis of influences and inspirations that have evolved over many decades. As such, the tapestry informing an aesthetics of engagement is not intended to be at all prescriptive nor closed, as I believe it to remain a practice that continues to remain open to potential influences and encounters with the other, and to continue to evolve alongside news of difference (Bateson 1972).
Identification of an alveolar type I epithelial cell-specific DNA nuclear import sequence for gene delivery

The ability to restrict gene delivery and expression to particular cell types is of paramount importance for many types of gene therapy, especially in the lung. The alveolar epithelial type I (ATI) cell, in particular, is an attractive cell type to target, as it comprises 95% of the internal surface area of the lung. We demonstrate, through microinjection of fluorescently labeled plasmids, that a DNA sequence within the rat T1α promoter was able to mediate ATI cell-specific plasmid DNA nuclear import due to the binding of ATI-enriched transcription factors. Promoter deletion analysis and site-directed mutagenesis of specific transcription-factor-binding sites within the +101 to -200 bp region of the T1α promoter identified HNF3 and TTF-1 as critical transcription factors for import. To test for nuclear import in vivo, plasmids expressing GFP from the CMV promoter were delivered into the lungs of mice by electroporation and evaluated immunohistochemically 48 h later. Plasmids carrying the 1.3 kbp T1α sequence resulted in GFP expression almost exclusively in ATI cells. This represents a new and highly efficient way to target a specific lung epithelial cell type both in vitro and in vivo based on the restriction of DNA nuclear import.
What's in a Number? Examining the Effect of a Dedicated Research Year on H-Index and Fellowship Decision-making

Objective To assess the effect of a dedicated research year on the h-indices of residents and the pursuit of fellowship within a heterogeneous group of urology programs. We previously demonstrated that urology residents with a dedicated research year produce more than 2 times the number of publications than their counterparts in 5-year programs. However, we did not give consideration to the impact of these publications. Materials and Methods We obtained information on the publication output and pursuit of fellowship of graduates from the New York Section urology residency programs from 2009 to 2013. Data on peer-reviewed publications were obtained by PubMed query and h-index was documented from the Scopus database. Results During the 5-year study period, 148 individuals (116 M, 32 F) graduated from New York Section urology programs. The mean h-index was 4.6 for residents in 5-year programs compared with 8.1 for those in 6-year programs ( P P = .023) with no difference in the pursuit of accredited fellowship programs. Those residents who went on to fellowship training had a significantly higher h-index (6.2 vs 3.6, P = .001). Conclusion Urology residents with a dedicated research year have almost 2 times the h-indices of their counterparts. Residents who pursue fellowship training also have higher h-indices. Residents who completed a dedicated research year were more likely to pursue fellowship training, although the accreditation status of these programs was variable.
Heterogeneous Associations of Ecological Attributes with Tick-Borne Rickettsial Pathogens in a Periurban Landscape

The variations in prevalence levels of two tick-borne rickettsial pathogens, Ehrlichia chaffeensis and Ehrlichia Ewingii, in a periurban environment were evaluated along with their ecological determinants. Tick life stage and sex, month of tick collection, landscape fragmentation, and ecological covariates specific to pasture and woodland sites were considered as explanatory covariates. Questing lone star ticks (Amblyomma americanum) were collected by flagging for an hour once every week during mid-April through mid-August in years 2013 and 2014. A total of 4357 adult and nymphal ticks (woodland = 2720 and pasture = 1637) were collected and assessed for pathogen prevalence by molecular methods. Female A. americanum ticks were more infected with E. chaffeensis than males or nymphs in woodland areas [♂ = 6.05%; ♀ = 12.0%; nymphs = 2.09%] and pastures [♂ = 8.05%; ♀ = 12.03%; nymphs = 3.33%], and the prevalence was influenced by edge density in the landscape. Higher E. ewingii infection was noted among female A. americanum ticks within woodland areas [♂ = 1.89%; ♀ = 2.14%; nymphs = 1.57%], but no such difference was evident in pastures [♂ = 1.03%; ♀ = 1.33%; nymphs = 1.12%]. Prevalence of E. ewingii was influenced by edge contrast index, and the percentage of pasture perimeter that was less than 20 meters from woodland areas. This study elucidates the complexity of tick-borne pathogen ecology and points to the need for further studies on the role of reservoir hosts, particularly that played by small vertebrates, which is not fully understood in the region.
Endothelial and inflammatory responses to acute exercise in perimenopausal and late postmenopausal women

Endothelial dysfunction and inflammation are characteristics of subclinical atherosclerosis and may increase through progressive menopausal stages. Evaluating endothelial responses to acute exercis...
Abstract 4268: DNA copy number variation and driver mutation patterns of follicular thyroid tumors

Background Our previous study using single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array identified significant differences in copy number variation (CNV) between tumor subtypes. This study was conducted to extend our previous findings, using both Fluorescent In-Situ Hybridization (FISH) and quantitative PCR (qPCR), and to investigate the possible relationship with major thyroid cancer driver mutations, and their association with aggressive features in follicular thyroid tumors. Methods For the validation, we obtained paraffin blocks of all cases with CNVs identified in our prior study (7 samples with Ch12 amplification, and 6 samples with Ch22 deletion), as well as 6 control samples with no CNV, for FISH analysis and qPCR. We used centromeric and distal probes to differentiate partial vs whole chromosome alterations. We then extended the study to characterize the relation between CNV and driver mutations and possible associations with aggressive features in a larger cohort of tumors, consisting of: 35 follicular adenoma (FA), 19 non-aggressive follicular variant papillary thyroid carcinoma (FVPTC), 22 aggressive FVPTC, 16 non-aggressive follicular carcinoma (FC), and 15 aggressive FC. Results Our FISH and qPCR results confirmed our earlier CNV results in this expanded sample cohort. Furthermore, FISH indicated that in each case, CNV involved the entire chromosome rather than sub-chromosomal alterations. Ch12 amplification was significantly more prevalent in FA and non-aggressive tumor than aggressive tumor subtypes (p-value Conclusion Our study suggests that Ch12 amplification is associated with indolent tumors. Since FAs are a common source of inconclusive pre-operative cytopathology, a molecular signature such as Ch12 amplification that identifies follicular tumors with little aggressive potential could be useful. Further independent external testing is warranted. Citation Format: Hyun-seok Kim, Kathleen Wilsbach, Aurelien Marti, Alireza Najafian, Alan K. Meeker, James R. Eshleman, Justin A. Bishop, Martha Zeiger, Christopher B. Umbricht. DNA copy number variation and driver mutation patterns of follicular thyroid tumors. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 106th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2015 Apr 18-22; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(15 Suppl):Abstract nr 4268. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2015-4268
MOVE-HF: An Internet-Based Pilot Study to Improve Adherence to Exercise in Patients with Heart Failure

Aim:The use of the internet and newer activity monitors such as the Fitbit Charge HR to improve exercise adherence is limited. The primary aim of the Move on Virtual Engagement (MOVE-HF) was to inv...
Safety and Costs of Stroke Unit Admission for Select Acute Intracerebral Hemorrhage Patients.

Background and Purpose:There are limited data to guide intensive care unit (ICU) versus dedicated stroke unit (SU) admission for intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) patients. We hypothesized select pati...
Winckelmann – Homosexualität, schwule Kultur, Queer Theory

Bereits zu seinen Lebzeiten war W. fur seine enthusiastische sinnliche Liebe zu jungen Mannern bekannt. Seine Veranlagung wurde bemerkenswert offen besprochen, manchmal sogar positiv bewertet, und von Anfang an mit seiner kunsthistorischen Arbeit in Verbindung gebracht. Obwohl W. fast genau einhundert Jahre vor der Einfuhrung des modernen Begriffs »Homosexualitat« ermordet wurde, fand er bald Aufnahme in die Reihe beruhmter Homosexueller. Noch heute bleibt sein Werk wichtig sowohl fur die Geschichte der modernen Sexualitat als auch fur die Queer Theory.
Visualization Improves Supraclavicular Access to the Subclavian Vein in a Mixed Reality Simulator.

BACKGROUND:We investigated whether visual augmentation (3D, real-time, color visualization) of a procedural simulator improved performance during training in the supraclavicular approach to the subclavian vein, not as widely known or used as its infraclavicular counterpart.METHODS:To train anesthesi
Optimal Risk Trade-Off in Relative Performance Evaluation

ABSTRACT In this study, I consider a company's optimal use of relative performance evaluation (RPE) in principal/agent relations to filter out common risk. I construct a risk-parity aggregate of th...
A polymer hydrogel modified lateral flow sensing platform

Abstract In this work a unique lateral flow immunochromatographic biosensing platform is introduced. The platform consists of a nitrocellulose membrane modified with a hydrogel “porous wall” to capture the detection probes without the need of pre-printed biological elements (such as DNA or antibodies), enabling direct visual detection. As a proof of concept, polyacrylamide and agarose hydrogels are incorporated into a nitrocellulose membrane to successfully separate and capture different nanoparticle probes (e.g. gold nanoparticles and quantum dots) in two distinct lines. This new design compliments the current lateral flow devices, taking a step towards universal detection strips as a sensing platform for lateral flow assays.
RISK FACTORS IN MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS-IMPLICATIONS FOR PATHOGENESIS

Current evidence suggests that multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immunemediated illness occuring in genetically susceptible subjects, in response to some environmental agency. The argument in favor of the latter is compelling, and is derived mostly from well-known geographical differences in the prevalence of the illness, from migration studies, and from evidence of case clustering. Kurtzke concludes that these factors “serve to define MS as an acquired, exogenous, environmental disease (1).
Resource allocation for multi-variate dynamic Gaussian estimation

Noisy data require estimation techniques to infer knowledge about a parameter's value. Furthermore, many sensors encounter environments with multiple dynamic variables, which adds additional complexity in the form of timeline and resource allocation constraints. When these multiple parameters require distinct illumination, the system must choose the power allocated for each measurement, subject to a total power constraint, to prioritize parameters that are important or desperately in need of an update. By carefully allocating the power between multiple measurements, this paper details strategies to minimize the overall uncertainty under different conditions of SNR, available timeline, and strength of the parameters' dynamics. We also consider allocation strategies that attempt to maintain all parameters below an uncertainty threshold.
Strengthening mechanisms of current dental porcelains.

Dental porcelains have a high glass content, which provides the translucency necessary for esthetic restorations. Because glasses are brittle, they fail under tension or bending by the propagation of preexisting flaws (e.g., scratches, porosities). Several approaches that are based on impeding the propagation of flaws have been used to strengthen dental porcelains, including bonding to metals, adding microcrystalline phases, and surface treatments (i.e., polishing, ion exchange, hydration). Through these methods, porcelain systems are used routinely for all-ceramic anterior restorations; however, porcelain-fused-to-metal restorations remain the most reliable for posterior applications.
Putative Chemical Signals from White-Tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus): Social and Seasonal Effects on Urinary Volatile Excretion in Males

Urine samples collected from dominant and subordinate male white-tailed deer during the breeding and nonbreeding season were analyzed by combined gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Fifty-five volatiles were found in measurable quantities. Ketones were most numerous, followed by alcohols and alkanes. Nine compounds were common to both dominants and subordinates during the breeding season. Of these nine, three were present in higher concentrations in dominants, and six were higher in subordinates. During the breeding season, nine compounds were found exclusively in the urine of dominants, whereas 19 compounds were found exclusively in the urine of subordinates. Concentrations of several compounds were dependent on the time of year (breeding vs. nonbreeding season). Differences in compound presence and concentration may produce a rank-specific odor, although we suggest that differing concentrations of these suites of compounds may be more important for the identification of social status than the presence of individual compounds. Since mature male white-tailed deer urinate on their tarsal glands frequently during the breeding season, this behavior may allow a deer to simultaneously scent-mark its environment and carry intraspecific cues indicative of social status.
Micropropagation of a recalcitrant male asparagus clone (MD 22-8)

TheAsparagus officinalis male asparagus clone MD 22–8 (Howard Scott) is highly prized by asparagus breeders but has been very difficult to micropropagate due to its slow growth rate and reluctance to initiate roots. Shoot tips cultured on indole-3-acetic acid or indole-3-propionic acid, at concentrations of 1.53 and 1.44 μM respectively, resulted in levels of root initiation and elongation equal to or better than those of a female asparagus clone. These culture conditions also improved the rates of shoot initiation and elongation. Root initiation and elongation were further increased by culture conditions that provided enhanced gas exchange.
A Randomized, Sham‐Controlled Trial of Bilateral Greater Occipital Nerve Blocks With Bupivacaine for Acute Migraine Patients Refractory to Standard Emergency Department Treatment With Metoclopramide

Background Greater occipital nerve block (GONB) is thought to be an effective treatment for acute migraine, though no randomized efficacy data have been published for this indication. We hypothesized that bilateral GONB with bupivacaine would provide greater rates of headache freedom than a sham injection among a population of emergency department (ED) patients who reported persistence of moderate or severe headache despite standard treatment with intravenous metoclopramide. Methods This was a randomized clinical trial conducted in 2 urban EDs. Patients with acute migraine who reported persistence of a moderate or severe headache for at least 1 hour or longer after treatment with 10 mg of intravenous metoclopramide were randomized to bilateral GONB with a total of 6 mL of 0.5% bupivacaine or bilateral intradermal scalp injection with a total of 1 mL of 0.5% bupivacaine. The primary outcome was complete headache freedom 30 minutes after the injection. An important secondary outcome was sustained headache relief, defined as achieving a headache level of mild or none in the ED and maintaining a level of mild or none without the use of any additional headache medication for 48 hours. Results Over a 31 month period, 76 patients were screened for participation and 28 were enrolled, of whom 15 received sham injection and 13 received GONB. This study was stopped before achieving the a priori sample size due to slow enrollment. The primary outcome - headache freedom at 30 minutes - was achieved by 0/15 (0%) of patients in the sham arm and 4/13 (31%) of patients in the GONB arm (95%CI for difference of 31%: 6, 56%, P = .035). The secondary outcome, sustained headache relief for 48 hours, was reported by 0/15 sham patients (0%) and 3/13 (23%) GONB patients (95% CI for difference of 23%: 0, 46%, P = .087). Reported side effects did not differ substantially between the groups. Conclusion GONB may be an effective treatment for ED patients with acute migraine who continue to suffer from moderate or severe headache after administration of intravenous metoclopramide; however, this study was stopped prior to achieving the a priori sample size.
Decreasing disruptive behaviour during routine dental visits: a video modelling intervention for young children

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the benefits of a collaborative partnership between paediatric dentists and behavioural health providers in which a practical video modelling intervention, with the aim to reduce disruptive behaviours in young children, is implemented. METHODS The video was created by a dentist using readily available technology and implemented in a busy practice setting. A clinical sample of 40 children, 3-6 years old, was recruited from a continuous sample of patients seen at the clinic. Participants were randomised into two groups and shown either the brief video model or a control video prior to a routine dental visit. All sessions were videotaped and independently scored by blinded observers. Behavioural data were recorded using 15-second partial-interval recording and included physical and vocal disruptions. Subjective measures of cooperation were also completed by observers and dental professionals. RESULTS Independent samples t-tests show that the treatment group had a significantly lower mean percentage of intervals in which disruptive behaviour was observed [t(38) = 2.94, P = 0.008] compared with the control group. Subjective rating scales revealed significantly higher ratings of cooperation for the treatment group from the dentist [t(38) = -5.19, P = 0.000], the dental assistant [t(38) = -4.01, P = 0.001] and the blinded coder [t(38) = -3.54, P = 0.002]. Significant relationships were found between the percentage of actual disruptive behaviour and subjective ratings of the dentist (r = -0.82, P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Watching a brief dentist-created video model of expected procedures can reduce disruptive behaviour and increase cooperation for young children making their first visit to a busy medical setting.
Matrix Metalloproteinase-9-Dependent Release of IL-1β by Human Eosinophils.

Asthma is often associated with airway eosinophilia, and therapies targeting eosinophils are now available to treat severe eosinophilic asthma. Eosinophilic asthma is often due to a type-2 immune response and production of IL-5, which leads to eosinophilopiesis and recruitment of mature eosinophils in the airways. A concomitant type-2 and type-17 response has been reported in some individuals. IL-17 may be enhanced by IL-1β production and can lead to neutrophilic inflammation. In fact, both eosinophilic and neutrophilic (mixed granulocytic) inflammation are simultaneously present in a large population of patients with asthma. In monocyte/macrophage cell populations, release of mature IL-1β occurs via toll-like receptor ligand-induced activation of the inflammasome. Within the inflammasome, a cascade of events leads to the activation of caspase-1, which cleaves pro-IL-1β protein into a mature, releasable, and active form. We have demonstrated that eosinophils can release IL-1β in a Toll-like receptor ligand-independent fashion. The objective of this study was to determine the mechanisms underlying the production and maturation of IL-1β in cytokine-activated eosinophils. Using eosinophils from circulating blood and from bronchoalveolar lavage fluid after an airway allergen challenge, the present study demonstrates that cytokine-activated eosinophils express and release a bioactive form of IL-1β with an apparent size less than the typical 17 kDa mature form produced by macrophages. Using a zymography approach and pharmacological inhibitors, we identified matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) as a protease that cleaves pro-IL-1β into a ~15 kDa form and allows the release of IL-1β from cytokine-activated eosinophils. Therefore, we conclude that activated eosinophils produce MMP-9, which causes the release of IL-1β in an inflammasome/caspase-1-independent manner. The production of IL-1β by eosinophils may be a link between the eosinophilic/type-2 immune response and the neutrophilic/type-17 immune response that is often associated with a more severe and treatment-refractory type of asthma.
Templating Interfacial Nanoparticle Assemblies via in Situ Techniques

In situ surface modification of nanoparticles has a rich industrial history, but in recent years, it has also received increased attention in the field of directed self-assembly. In situ techniques rely on components within a Pickering emulsion system, such as amphiphiles that act as hydrophobizers or ionic species that screen charges, to drive the interfacial assembly of particles. Instead of stepwise procedures to chemically tune the particle wettability, in situ methods use elements already present within the system to alter the nanoparticle interfacial behavior, often depending on Coulombic interactions to simplify operations. The surface modifications are not contingent on specific chemical reactions, which further enables a multitude of possible nanoparticles to be used within a given system. In recent studies, in situ methods have been combined with external means of shaping the interface to produce materials with high interfacial areas and complex geometries. These systems have facilely tunable properties, enabling their use in an extensive array of applications. In this feature article, in honor of the late Prof. Helmuth Mohwald, we review how in situ techniques have influenced the development of soft, advanced materials, covering the fundamental interfacial phenomena with an outlook on materials science.
Differences and similarities of peripheral auditory systems

The properties of the ears of the wide range of species processing auditory signals can vary greatly depending on both important environmental sounds, and the sounds generated by individual members of the species (which are shaped by the sound processing and sound generation systems). Unfortunately, most anatomical and physiological research is conducted on a small subset of mammals and there are many pressures on auditory researchers to limit their research to species that are easy to work with in laboratories which are motivated to explain normal and impaired hearing in humans. Psychoacoustics has played a major role in our understanding of auditory processing in humans, but is difficult and time consuming in nonhuman species. Much of the investigation in nonhuman species is invasive and not appropriate for use with humans. Otoacoustic Emissions (sounds generated by the inner ear and measured in the outer or middle ears) can be used in most species, but we are still investigating the extent to which OAE obtained from different species reflect similar underlying processes. The combination of OAE measurement and computer modelling of the data has made us aware of the importance of evaluation of cross-species and individual differences in auditory processing.The properties of the ears of the wide range of species processing auditory signals can vary greatly depending on both important environmental sounds, and the sounds generated by individual members of the species (which are shaped by the sound processing and sound generation systems). Unfortunately, most anatomical and physiological research is conducted on a small subset of mammals and there are many pressures on auditory researchers to limit their research to species that are easy to work with in laboratories which are motivated to explain normal and impaired hearing in humans. Psychoacoustics has played a major role in our understanding of auditory processing in humans, but is difficult and time consuming in nonhuman species. Much of the investigation in nonhuman species is invasive and not appropriate for use with humans. Otoacoustic Emissions (sounds generated by the inner ear and measured in the outer or middle ears) can be used in most species, but we are still investigating the extent to which OAE...