cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Genome-wide germline single nucleotide polymorphisms for cancer classification in the Framingham Heart Study

We identified 90 germline single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that were informative for discriminative analysis of 9 major cancers among genotyped Framingham Heart Study participants. Support vector machines resulted in the greatest classification performance, which was in the range of 70–100%. The germline SNPs identified are based on DNA from peripheral blood lymphocytes obtained during non-invasive blood draws, and unlike SNPs in tumor DNA, may not be functionally related to tumor characteristics. Further validation studies are required in order to understand the role of the seeding, genetic selection, and lifetime cumulative effects of these germline SNPs in cancer development.
Individual differences in sentence comprehension: A functional magnetic resonance imaging investigation of syntactic and lexical processing demands

Language comprehension is neurally underpinned by a network of collaborating cortical processing centers; individual differences in comprehension must be related to some set of this network's properties. This study investigated the neural bases of individual differences during sentence comprehension by examining the network's response to two variations in processing demands: reading sentences containing words of high versus low lexical frequency and having simpler versus more complex syntax. In a functional magnetic resonance imaging study, readers who were independently identified as having high or low working memory capacity for language exhibited three differentiating properties of their language network, namely, neural efficiency, adaptability, and synchronization. First, greater efficiency (defined as a reduction in activation associated with improved performance) was manifested as less activation in the bilateral middle frontal and right lingual gyri in high-capacity readers. Second, increased adaptability was indexed by larger lexical frequency effects in high-capacity readers across bilateral middle frontal, bilateral inferior occipital, and right temporal regions. Third, greater synchronization was observed in high-capacity readers between left temporal and left inferior frontal, left parietal, and right occipital regions. Synchronization interacted with adaptability, such that functional connectivity remained constant or increased with increasing lexical and syntactic demands in high-capacity readers, whereas low-capacity readers either showed no reliable differentiation or a decrease in functional connectivity with increasing demands. These results are among the first to relate multiple cortical network properties to individual differences in reading capacity and suggest a more general framework for understanding the relation between neural function and individual differences in cognitive performance.
Treatment options for patients with suboptimal response to surgery for stress urinary incontinence.

ABSTRACTBackground: Many women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) undergo surgery to relieve their symptoms. Currently, tension-free vaginal tape or transobturator tape sling procedures are the surgical treatments of choice. Although these procedures are often successful, a growing number of women experience suboptimal results ranging from improvement without cure to postoperative failure. Follow-up surgery often improves residual or recurrent symptoms but generally carries lower success rates and higher complication risks. Additionally, many women with suboptimal results are reluctant to undergo further surgery.Scope: A PubMed literature search for studies of SUI treatment options published from 1986 to 2006 was performed.Findings: The literature revealed a gap in published studies addressing non-surgical options for patients with failed SUI surgeries. Studies of non-surgical treatments for SUI often exclude women who have had prior surgeries, or do not analyze this subgroup. It is, therefore, diffic...
Controller Synthesis to Render a Closed Loop Transfer Function Positive Real

In this paper we study the problem of synthesizing an internally stabilizing controller for a given plant such that a given closed loop transfer function is extended strictly positive real. Necessary and sufficiency conditions for the existence of controllers are obtained State space formulate for the controller design are given in terms of solutions to algebraic Riccati equations (or inequalities). The order of the constructed controller does not exceed that of the plant. These results have immediate applications in robust/nonlinear control.
Effects of Redundant and Nonredundant Bimodal Sensory Stimulation on Heart Rate in Bobwhite Quail Embryos

Research with both animal embryos and human infants has provided evidence that information presented redundantly and in temporal synchrony across sensory modalities (intersensory redundancy) can guide selective attention, perceptual learning, and memory during early development. How this facilitation is achieved remains relatively unexamined. This study examined the effects of redun- dant versus nonredundant bimodal stimulation on a measure of physiological arousal (heart rate) in bobwhite quail embryos. Results show that quail embryos exposed to concurrent but nonredundant auditory and visual stimulation during the late stages of incubation exhibit significantly elevated heart rates following stimulus exposure and during stimulus reexposure when compared to embryos exposed to redundant and synchronous audiovisual stimulation, unimodal auditory stimula- tion, or no supplemental prenatal sensory stimulation. These findings indicate a functional distinction between redundant and nonredundant bimodal stimulation during early development and suggest that nonredundant bimodal stimulation during the prenatal period can raise arousal levels, thereby potentially interfering with the attentional capacities and perceptual learning of bobwhite quail. In contrast, intersensory redundancy appears to foster arousal levels that facilitate selective attention and perceptual learning during prenatal development. 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 43: 304-310, 2003.
Collecting and analyzing qualitative data for system dynamics: methods and models

System dynamics depends heavily upon quantitative data to generate feedback models. Qualitative data and their analysis also have a central role to play at all levels of the modeling process. Although the classic literature on system dynamics strongly supports this argument, the protocols to incorporate this information during the modeling process are not detailed by the most inﬂuential authors. Data-gathering techniques such as interviews and focus groups, and qualitative data analysis techniques such as grounded theory methodology and ethnographic decision models could have a strong, critical role in rigorous system dynamics efforts. This article describes some of the main qualitative, social science techniques and explores their suitability in the different stages of the modeling process. Additionally, the authors argue that the techniques described in the paper could contribute to the understanding of the modeling process, facilitate communication among modelers and clients, and set up a methodological framework to promote constructive discussion around the merits of qualitative versus quantitative modeling. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An economic evaluation of market development programmes for US dairy products

ABSTRACT‘This study measured the effectiveness of US dairy export promotion programmes on increasing foreign demand and enhancing producers’ revenues. An import demand equation based on panel data was used to test whether export promotion has a positive and significant impact on US dairy exports. The effects of various promotion scenarios on the dairy market were then simulated, and benefit–cost ratios (BCRs) for these programmes were estimated. There were three key findings. First, the combined effort of public and private dairy export promotion expenditures had a positive and statistically significant impact on demand for US dairy products in the world market. The findings indicated that export promotion stimulated total dairy exports by 4.14 billion pounds, on average, per year, which represented 55.8% of total exports. Second, US dairy export promotion has been highly profitable for the nation’s dairy farmers. The calculated BCRs, based on assumed elasticity of supply, ranged from a low of 8.54 for th...
Platelets inhibit fibrinolysis in vitro by both plasminogen activator inhibitor-1-dependent and -independent mechanisms

Platelet-rich thrombi are resistant to lysis by tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA). Although platelet alpha-granules contain plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), a fast-acting inhibitor of t-PA, the contribution of PAI-1 to the antifibrinolytic effect of platelets has remained a subject of controversy. We recently reported a patient with a homozygous mutation within the PAI-1 gene that results in complete loss of PAI-1 expression. Platelets from this individual constitute a unique reagent with which to probe the role of platelet PAI-1 in the regulation of fibrinolysis. The effects of PAI-1-deficient platelets were compared with those of normal platelets in an in vitro clot lysis assay. Although the incorporation of PAI-1-deficient platelets into clots resulted in a moderate inhibition of t-PA-mediated fibrinolysis, normal platelets markedly inhibited clot lysis under the same conditions. However, no difference between PAI-1-deficient platelets and platelets with normal PAI-1 content was observed when streptokinase or a PAI-1-resistant t-PA mutant were used to initiate fibrinolysis. In addition, PAI-1-resistant t-PA was significantly more efficient in lysing clots containing normal platelets than wild-type t-PA. We conclude that platelets inhibit t-PA-mediated fibrinolysis by both PAI- 1-dependent and PAI-1-independent mechanisms. These results have important implications for the role of PAI-1 in the resistance of platelet-rich thrombi to lysis in vivo.
Comparison of decoding resolution of standard and high-density electrocorticogram electrodes

Objective. Electrocorticography (ECoG)-based brain–computer interface (BCI) is a promising platform for controlling arm prostheses. To restore functional independence, a BCI must be able to control arm prostheses along at least six degrees-of-freedoms (DOFs). Prior studies suggest that standard ECoG grids may be insufficient to decode multi-DOF arm movements. This study compared the ability of standard and high-density (HD) ECoG grids to decode the presence/absence of six elementary arm movements and the type of movement performed. Approach. Three subjects implanted with standard grids (4 mm diameter, 10 mm spacing) and three with HD grids (2 mm diameter, 4 mm spacing) had ECoG signals recorded while performing the following movements: (1) pincer grasp/release, (2) wrist flexion/extension, (3) pronation/supination, (4) elbow flexion/extension, (5) shoulder internal/external rotation, and (6) shoulder forward flexion/extension. Data from the primary motor cortex were used to train a state decoder to detect the presence/absence of movement, and a six-class decoder to distinguish between these movements. Main results. The average performances of the state decoders trained on HD ECoG data were superior (p = 3.05 × 10−5) to those of their standard grid counterparts across all combinations of the μ, β, low-γ, and high-γ frequency bands. The average best decoding error for HD grids was 2.6%, compared to 8.5% of standard grids (chance 50%). The movement decoders trained on HD ECoG data were superior (p = 3.05 × 10−5) to those based on standard ECoG across all band combinations. The average best decoding errors of 11.9% and 33.1% were obtained for HD and standard grids, respectively (chance error 83.3%). These improvements can be attributed to higher electrode density and signal quality of HD grids. Significance. Commonly used ECoG grids are inadequate for multi-DOF BCI arm prostheses. The performance gains by HD grids may eventually lead to independence-restoring BCI arm prosthesis.
Bidding Strategy at Ordinary Auctions

FOR many commodities of substantial proportion-and in some cases a growing proportion-of the quantity handled passes through ordinary auctions. This is notably true in the United States for masterpieces, used furniture, eggs, tobacco, a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, and almost all kinds of livestock. What distinguishes an ordinary auction from other transaction systems is its provision for all parties on one side of the market-usually the buying side-to make improvable, public offers directed seriatim to members of the other side, who may be passive in the process of price formation. When a succession of lots is to be sold, the task of a prospective buyer is quite complicated. If he is not careful, he will fail to take advantage of knowing that the quantity he buys affects his average cost, and even impose almost perfect price discrimination on himself. Virtually nothing has been written about how professional buyers do or should choose their bids. The purpose here is to indicate actual bidding techniques, to derive a formula for choosing an optimum upper limit, and to assess the feasibility of monopsonistic bidding in practice. These issues are not only interesting in themselves, but also are prerequisite to developing one part of an empirically relevant theory of price. This is the part pertaining to successive progressive auctions, predicting for that transaction system how demand and supply will interact and what the trading outcome will be-not if there is recontract, but in fact.
HIV/AIDS in Asian and Pacific Islanders in the United States

Although research consistently documents high levels of HIV risk behavior among Asian and Pacific Islanders (APIs) in the United States, there has been minimal prioritization of public health resources and funding for this population. In this chapter we review the state of HIV/AIDS epidemiology and prevention science for APIs as an emerging risk group. The chapter is organized into four sections: (i) epidemiological trends in HIV/AIDS among APIs, (ii) social factors associated with HIV risk among APIs, (iii) HIV prevention interventions for APIs, and (iv) the role of community based organizations and social movements in responding to HIV/AIDS in APIs. We consider and critique how APIs have been overlooked and excluded in research and prevention, and offer suggestions for future research, intervention, and community mobilization strategies to respond to the growing HIV/AIDS epidemic among APIs.
Is cystic disease related to breast cancer

Human breast cystic disease is a common premenopausal benign breast condition. Apocrine metaplasia of normal breast epithelium is the lesion that allows cysts to develop. Apocrine metaplasia and breast cysts occur frequently in association with other proliferative changes in breast epithelium, especially breast epithelial hyperplasia. Clinical follow-up studies of women with breast cystic disease indicate an increased risk of subsequent development of breast carcinoma. This risk is enhanced when multiple cysts occur. A positive family history of breast carcinoma adds to the increased risk that is associated with breast cystic disease. Biochemical analysis of breast cystic disease fluid shows a unique protein profile. GCDFP-15 (gross cystic disease fluid protein) in breast cystic disease fluid is also found by immunoperoxidase staining to be present in approximately 50% of all breast carcinomas Enhanced production of GCDFP-15 by breast carcinomas has been shown experimentally and clinically with the use of androgens. A hypothesis is presented on the sequence of alterations that relate to the development of breast gross cystic disease and to the development of breast carcinomas with apocrine features.
Crack-tip fields for cracks perpendicular to the interface between dissimilar elastic and creeping materials

The stress fields at the tip of a crack terminating at and perpendicular to the interface under symmetric inplane loading are investigated. The bimaterial interface is formed by a linearly elastic material and an elastic power-law creeping material. Using generalized expansions at the crack tip in each region and matching across the interface, a series asymptotic solution is constructed for the stresses and strain rates near the crack tip. It is found that the stress singularities, to the leading order, are the same in each material, oscillatory higher-order terms exist in both regions, and stress higher-order term with the order of O(r°) appears in the elastic material. The stress exponents and the angular distributions for singular terms and higher order terms are obtained for different hardening exponents. A full agreement between asymptotic solutions and the full-field finite element solutions has been obtained.
Premature Baby Girl with Ambiguous Genitalia

A 53-day-old, 27-weeks’-gestation female infant presents with genitalia that have become more noticeably ambiguous over the preceding several weeks. (Figure 1). Figure 1. ### Prenatal and Birth Histories ### Case Presentation #### Complicated NICU course to date, which included the following ### Vital Signs #### Physical Examination
The effect of DMF on micronucleus frequencies in periphery lymphocytes in the exposed workers

Purpose TO study the effect of DMFon micronucleus frequencies in periphery lympho- cytes in the exposed workers. Method Gas chromatography (GC);Gas chromatography/mass spectrom- etry (GC/MS);Micronuclus test .Results Increased frequencies of micronuclus were found in the perpheral lymphocytes of the workers, compared with control people(ANOVA,p0.01).There are significant differences between the 2～3 years group、4～5 years group and the 6～7 years group (ANOVA,P0.01), but no differences between 2-3 years group and 4～5 years group. Conclusions Long-term contact with DMF can cause chromosome damage. There is also a trend that the Longer time the worker contact with DMF, the higher micronucleus frequencies in periphery lymphocytes in the exposed workers will appear.
Effects of morning blood pressure surge on cognitive function in the elderly patients with essential hypertension

Objective To explore the effects of morning blood pressure surge( MBPS) on cognitive function in the elderly patients with essential hypertension. Methods 107 patients receiving the detection of 24h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring were divided into MBPS group( n = 40) and non-MBPS( NMBPS) group( n = 67). The levels of blood lipids,glucose and creatinine were determined,and MMSE was measured. Results The level of systolic blood pressure in MBPS group was higher than that in NMBPS group( P 0. 05). The score of MMSE in MBPS group was lower than that in NMBPS group( P 0. 01). Conclusions MBPS is closely related with the cognitive impairment in the elderly patients with essential hypertension.
Abstract A02: A kinome-wide RNAi screen in Drosophila glia and human GBM models reveals Stk17A drives neoplastic glial proliferation and migration

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the most common primary malignant brain tumor, are highly proliferative, diffusely invasive, and incurable by current therapies. Genetic and molecular analyses reveal that GBMs frequently harbor activating mutations in the EGFR receptor tyrosine kinase (EGFR) and Pi-3 kinase (PI3K) signaling pathways. While the ability of these mutations to drive gliomagenesis has been verified in mouse models, current data also indicate that EGFR and PI3K signaling cooperates with as yet unknown factors to drive its invasive pathology and therapeutic resistance in GBM. To identify such factors, we performed a cross-species, multidisciplinary genetic screen in both Drosophila melanogaster and mammalian GBM model systems designed to identify novel genes that augment EGFR- and PI3K- dependent neoplasia. Our results in both Drosophila and GBM cell culture and animal model systems indicate that Stk17A, a cytoplasmic serine-threonine kinase subject to copy-gain and overexpression in GBM, is necessary for GBM cell proliferation and invasion. Our data also illustrate that overexpression of Stk17A in combination with oncogenic EGFR mutations is sufficient to promote increased glial cell proliferation and invasion. Furthermore, in our GBM model systems, we find that Stk17A overexpression stimulates increased phosphorylation and activity of non-muscle myosin II regulatory light chain (MRLC), a known Stk17A substrate and key regulator of the cell cycle and cellular motility, which itself is required for neoplastic glial transformation. Finally, oncogenomic analysis of GBMs and other high-grade gliomas reveal that Stk17A becomes overexpressed in association with EGFR-PI3K mutations, and Stk17A copy-gain and overexpression are significantly associated with poor prognosis in patients. Together, these mechanistic insights indicate that Stk17A potentiates the oncogenenic effects of EGFR- and PI3K-driven tumors through the upregulation of MLRC activity, and suggest that Stk17A may serve as a novel therapeutic target for EGFR-PI3K dependent GBMs and high-grade gliomas. Current work is continuing to examine the molecular function of Stk17A in the context of GBM, normal glia, and neural stem cells in order to further our understanding of how Stk17A contributes to tumor pathology. Citation Format: Joanna Wardwell-Ozgo, Colleen Mosley, Harley Kornblum, Renee Read. A kinome-wide RNAi screen in Drosophila glia and human GBM models reveals Stk17A drives neoplastic glial proliferation and migration. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Developmental Biology and Cancer; Nov 30-Dec 3, 2015; Boston, MA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Res 2016;14(4_Suppl):Abstract nr A02.
Retention of gene expression in porcine islets after agarose encapsulation and long-term culture.

Agarose encapsulation of porcine islets allows extended in vitro culture, providing ample time to determine the functional capacity of the islets and conduct comprehensive microbiological safety testing prior to implantation as a treatment for type 1 diabetes mellitus. However, the effect that agarose encapsulation and long-term culture may have on porcine islet gene expression is unknown. The aim of the present study was to compare the transcriptome of encapsulated porcine islets following long-term in vitro culture against free islets cultured overnight. Global gene expression analysis revealed no significant change in the expression of 98.47% of genes. This indicates that the gene expression profile of free islets is highly conserved following encapsulation and long-term culture. Importantly, the expression levels of genes that code for critical hormones secreted by islets (insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin) as well as transcripts encoding proteins involved in their packaging and secretion are unchanged. While a small number of genes known to play roles in the insulin secretion and insulin signaling pathways are differentially expressed, our results show that overall gene expression is retained following islet isolation, agarose encapsulation, and long-term culture.
The journey to Patusan: The education of Jim and Marlow in Lord Jim

Inevitably, the attempt to isolate a significant incident, dialogue, or minor character in the most complex and subtle novels leads to oversimplification and distortion. Rather than review the considerable literature that reduces the extraordinary structure of Lord Jim to the significance of a few of its parts, let me begin this chapter by clarifying one of my critical premises. The meaning of a work of fiction inheres in our perception of the gradually developing and continuously changing pattern as it emerges through the process of reading, as well as in our apprehension of the completed pattern that clarifies the preceding flux. The criticism of fiction has tended to be more comfortable with addressing the completed ‘event’, as if a novel could be perceived in its totality like a painting or sculpture. But fiction is the most linear of art forms and exists for the reader primarily within the duration required to complete the act of reading; the memory of the infinitely detailed fictive world fades as the reader’s consciousness is invaded by other experiences. It is not enough to discuss a novel in its moment of stability after its ending has apocalyptically clarified every preceding detail with proleptic (and prophetic) meaning. If we are to do justice to the complexity of a novel, we must ‘report’ on the crucial process between reader and novel during which tentative patterns of meaning are proposed, tested, transformed, and/or discarded.
A 32-Year Study of the Effect of Pneumococcal Vaccines on Invasive Streptococcus pneumoniae Disease.

Abstract Background Worldwide, Streptococcus pneumoniae commonly causes community-acquired pneumonia, meningitis, septicemia and otitis media. Invasive pneumococcal infection (IPD) represents the most serious presentation, occurs in approximately 1 in 4 cases and engenders case fatality rates (CFR) in pneumonia of 20-25% and meningitis of 35-40%. We investigated IPD for 32 years in an American city to assess the effect of differing pneumococcal vaccines on serotype occurrence and CFR among children and adults. Methods In this retrospective study of IPD conducted from 1983-2014, consecutive pneumococcal strains were obtained from inpatients at 3 affiliated hospitals. Each hospital laboratory submitted to our research laboratory S pneumoniae strains recovered from blood and otherwise sterile sites for serotyping by Quellung and penicillin susceptibility tests by ETEST. Clinical data were abstracted from hospital medical records. Results IPD occurred among 193 children and 1,003 adults. The overall CFR among adults was 19.2%. Only 2 children died. From 1983-2004, PCV7 serotypes dominated, but after routine PCV7 immunization began in 2000, PCV7 serotypes decreased and nearly disappeared, including penicillin-resistant PCV7 serotypes, few IPD occurred among children and incidence rates declined markedly, which continued after PCV13 replaced PCV7 in 2010. The 11 additional serotypes in PPSV23 became dominant during the past 5 years. Nonvaccine serotypes emerged also. Only serotypes 6B, 15 and 35F showed a significant relative risk of death. Conclusions Community-wide usage of PCV7, then PCV13, changed the predominant serotypes. PCV7 serotypes and IPD among children almost disappeared and PPSV23 and nonvaccine serotypes became more dominant.
Gravity Beyond General Relativity

At the core of this thesis is the question of modifying general relativity. In the previous chapter, we introduced general relativity and its cosmological solutions, culminating in a discussion of two key aspects of the cosmological standard model: \(\Lambda \)CDM at late times and inflation at early times. In this chapter, we extend that discussion to theories of gravity beyond general relativity, and in particular the theories which will receive our attention in this thesis: massive gravity, massive bigravity, and Einstein-aether theory.
Improved nutrition in the first 1000 days and adult human capital and health

Objective The aim of this article is to review why the first 1000 days of life are a vulnerable period of human development and the long-term effects of a nutrition experiment carried out in Guatemala (1969–1977). Methods In 1969–77, a supplement called Atole, containing high quality protein, energy and micronutrients, was provided to women during pregnancy and lactation and to children <7 years of age in two villages while in two control villages a low-energy drink called Fresco was provided. The villages were assigned at random to the treatment groups. Results Several reasons explain the vulnerability of the first 1000 days: rapid growth and development, high nutritional requirements, greater susceptibility to infections, high sensitivity to programming effects and full dependence on others for care, nutrition, and social interaction. Compared with Fresco, Atole improved total nutrient intakes (protein, energy, and micronutrients) and reduced stunting, but only in children < 3 years of age. A study in 2002–2004 showed that schooling, reading, and intelligence were improved in Atole villages, but only in those who received Atole before the age of 3 years. Wages of men were increased by 46% in those provided Atole through the age of 2 years. Findings for cardiovascular disease risk factors were inconclusive, perhaps because of the young age of the sample. A new study focusing on chronic diseases is ongoing (ages 38–54 years). Conclusions The Guatemalan studies indicate that substantial improvement in adult human capital and economic productivity resulted from the nutrition intervention. This provides a powerful argument for promoting improvements in nutrition in pregnant women and young children in low income countries.
Adherence to Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Medication During the Transition to College

Abstract Purpose The present study explores the medication self-management experiences of adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) during their transition to young adulthood in college. Methods Participants were college freshmen with ADHD prescribed daily medication for their condition. Ten individual interviews were conducted using a semistructured interview script. Measures related to ADHD medication management were also completed. Qualitative data were analyzed via directed content analysis and quantitative data via descriptive statistics. Results Five themes emerged from interviews: (1) transitions to independence are often abrupt, and many adolescents lack critical self-management skills; (2) volitional nonadherence is high due to inaccurate disease beliefs, perceived academic demands, and medication side effects; (3) poor self-management negatively impacts school performance; (4) peer pressure to share medication affects social functioning and adherence; and (5) social support is greatly needed. Common barriers to adherence included "don't feel like taking medication" (90%) and "difficulties in sticking to a fixed medication schedule" (80%). Conclusions Participants with ADHD were not prepared to manage their chronic illness independently in context of increased demands and newfound freedom, resulting in negative academic consequences. Social factors also play an influential role in ADHD self-management, particularly related to the isolation associated with sharing the medication and its side effects. Intervention programs targeting medication self-management during the transition to independence are greatly needed for young adults with ADHD as high academic performance in college is critical for future success.
Endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy following head and neck radiation therapy

This article determines the efficacy of endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (endoDCR) in patients who have undergone adjuvant external beam radiation therapy (XRT) following head and neck cancer resection. A retrospective chart review was performed on all patients who underwent endoDCR between 2006 and 2014 at a tertiary referral center. Cases were reviewed and selected for the following inclusion criteria: history of adjuvant sinonasal XRT following head and neck cancer resection, preoperative probing and irrigation demonstrating nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO), postoperative probing and irrigation following silicone tube extubation. Exclusion criteria included active dacryocystitis, postoperative follow-up of less than 4 months, presence of epiphora prior to XRT, lack of probing/irrigation at preoperative or postoperative visit, and lid malposition including ectropion, facial palsy, and/or poor tear pump. Six patients (7 eyes) met the selection criteria. EndoDCR was performed at a mean time of 30 months following last radiation treatment (range, 3-71 months). Mitomycin C was used in 4/7 cases. Silicone tube removal occurred between 3-8 months postoperatively. Five out of 6 patients had postoperative sinonasal debridement and nasal saline/corticosteroid irrigation. Five out of 6 patients (83%) had both resolution of epiphora and anatomic patency confirmed by probing and irrigation. Our experience suggests that endoDCR procedures can be effective in patients with NLDO following prior sinonasal XRT for head and neck neoplasms. Postoperative management with sinonasal debridement and combined saline/corticosteroid nasal irrigation may help to improve surgical success in patients with increased post-radiotherapy mucosal inflammation.
Properties of Stationary Nonequilibrium States in the Thermostatted Periodic Lorentz Gas I: The One Particle System

We study numerically and analytically the properties of the stationary state of a particle moving under the influence of an electric field E in a two dimensional periodic Lorentz gas with the energy kept constant by a Gaussian thermostat. Numerically the current appears to be a continuous function of E whose derivative varies very irregularly, possibly in a discontinuous manner. We argue for the non differentiability of the current as a function of E utilizing a symbolic description of the dynamics based on the discontinuities of the collision map. The decay of correlations and the behavior of the diffusion constant are also investigated.
Trajectory error analysis of a flexure pivot type guide for linear nanopositioning

With the current drive towards diffraction limited storage rings, hard x-ray optics will require subsequent increases in positioning accuracy over large travel ranges. Nanometer-level precision positioning requires the use of compliant mechanisms to remove friction and backlash type errors. Ideally, the compliant mechanism is compliant in the direction of desired travel and rigid in all other directions. However, in reality, there is still compliance in these other directions, particularly for flexure pivots, which lead to parasitic trajectory errors. In this paper we analyze the trajectory errors of a linear guiding mechanism, composed of commercially available C-Flex Bearing Co. Inc. and Riverhawk Co. flexure pivots, using finite element analysis and experimental measurements. The guide is designed as an assembly of double parallel 4-bar type deformation compensated linear guiding mechanisms, and incorporates a novel 1:2 stabilizer unit to control the middle-bar. The focus of the analysis is on the trajectory errors caused by rotation center shift, manufacturing tolerances, flexure pivot size, assembly tolerances, and includes a discussion of methods to mitigate these errors.
Adolescent social media use and mental health from adolescent and parent perspectives

This study investigated adolescent and parent reports of adolescent social media use and its relation to adolescent psychosocial adjustment. The sample consisted of 226 participants (113 parent-adolescent dyads) from throughout the United States, with adolescents (55 males, 51 females, 7 unreported) ranging from ages 14 to 17. Parent and adolescent reports of the number of adolescents' social media accounts were moderately correlated with parent-reported DSM-5 symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, ODD, anxiety, and depressive symptoms, as well as adolescent-reported fear of missing out (FoMO) and loneliness. Lastly, anxiety and depressive symptoms were highest among adolescents with a relatively high number of parent-reported social media accounts and relatively high FoMO. The implications of these findings and need for related longitudinal studies are discussed.
Polymorphous band structure model of gapping in the antiferromagnetic and paramagnetic phases of the Mott insulators MnO, FeO, CoO, and NiO

The existence of band gaps in both the antiferromagnetic (AFM) and paramagnetic (PM) phases of the classic NaCl-structure Mott insulators MnO, FeO, CoO, and NiO is traditionally viewed and taught as a manifestation of strong correlation whereby insulation results from electrons moving across the lattice forming states with doubly occupied $d$ orbitals on certain atomic sites and empty $d$ orbitals on other sites. Within such theories, the gap of the AFM and PM phases of these oxides emerges even in the absence of spatial symmetry breaking. The need for such a correlated picture is partially based on the known failure of the commonly used band models for the PM phase that assume for such a spin disordered state the macroscopically averaged NaCl structure, where all transition metal (TM) sites are symmetry-equivalent (a monomorphous description), producing a gapless PM state with zero magnetic moments, in sharp conflict with experiment. Here, we seek to understand the minimum theoretical description needed to capture the leading descriptors of ground state Mott insulation in the classic, $3d$ monoxide Mott systems---gapping and moment formation in the AFM and PM phase. As noted by previous authors, the spin-ordered AFM phase in these materials already shows in band theory a significant band gap when one doubles the NaCl unit cell by permitting different potentials for transition-metal atoms with different spins. For the spin-disordered PM phase, we allow analogously larger NaCl-type supercells where each TM site can have different spin direction and local bonding environments (i.e., disordered), yet the total spin is zero. Such a polymorphous description has the flexibility to acquire symmetry-breaking energy-lowering patterns that can lift the degeneracy of the $d$ orbitals and develop large on-site magnetic moments without violating the global, averaged NaCl symmetry. Electrons are exchanged between spin-up and spin-down bands to create closed-shell insulating configurations that lend themselves to a single determinental description. It turns out that such a polymorphous description of the structure within the single-determinant, mean-field, Bloch periodic band structure approach (based on $\mathrm{DFT}+U$) allows large on-site magnetic moments to develop spontaneously, leading to significant (1--3 eV) band gaps and large local moments in the AFM and PM phases of the classic NaCl-structure Mott insulators MnO, FeO, CoO, and NiO in agreement with experiment. We adapt to the spin disordered polymorphous configurations the ``special quasirandom structure'' (SQS) construct known from the theory of disordered substitutional alloys whereby supercell approximants which represent the best random configuration average (not individual snapshots) for finite (64, 216 atoms, or larger) supercells of a given lattice symmetry are constructed. We conclude that the basic features of these paradigmatic Mott insulators can be approximated by the physics included in energy-lowering symmetry broken DFT.
Liquid Swine Manure Impact on First-Year Soybeans and Subsequent-Year Corn

Introduction Liquid swine manure is a valuable crop nutrient source in Iowa. Producers may lack confidence in manure nutrient availability and ability to maintain high crop yields, and therefore may apply additional fertilizer or high manure rates to ensure adequate soil fertility levels. This results in over-application, reduced profits, and potential environmental impacts. Objectives of this project include learning more about liquid swine manure nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) as nutrient sources for first-year soybean and subsequent (second)-year corn production, evaluating crop yield with manure compared with commercial fertilizer, monitoring soil P test change with manure application, and helping crop and livestock producers improve manure nutrient management practices. This site was one of 46 on-farm demonstration sites established on various soils throughout 13 Iowa counties in 2000–03. Soil at this location was Kenyon loam.
Differentiating meningioma grade by imaging features on magnetic resonance imaging.

Abstract Atypical meningioma has an aggressive clinical course. Distinguishing atypical from benign meningioma preoperatively could affect surgical planning and improve treatment outcomes. In this study, we examined whether pre-operative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features could distinguish between benign and atypical meningioma. Imaging factors analyzed included peritumoral edema, the presence of a draining vein, tumor necrosis, tumor location and tumor volume. Using univariate analysis, the most striking predictor of grade was tumor volume (p
Integrative gene network analysis identifies key signatures, intrinsic networks and host factors for influenza virus A infections

Influenza A virus, with the limited coding capacity of 10–14 proteins, requires the host cellular machinery for many aspects of its life cycle. Knowledge of these host cell requirements not only reveals molecular pathways exploited by the virus or triggered by the immune system, but also provides further targets for antiviral drug development. To uncover novel pathways and key targets of influenza infection, we assembled a large amount of data from 12 cell-based gene-expression studies of influenza infection for an integrative network analysis. We systematically identified differentially expressed genes and gene co-expression networks induced by influenza infection. We revealed the dedicator of cytokinesis 5 (DOCK5) played potentially an important role for influenza virus replication. CRISPR/Cas9 knockout of DOCK5 reduced influenza virus replication, indicating that DOCK5 is a key regulator for the viral life cycle. DOCK5’s targets determined by the DOCK5 knockout experiments strongly validated the predicted gene signatures and networks. This study systematically uncovered and validated fundamental patterns of molecular responses, intrinsic structures of gene co-regulation, and novel key targets in influenza virus infection.
Weakly Supervised Dictionary Learning

We present a probabilistic modeling and inference framework for discriminative analysis dictionary learning under a weak supervision setting. Dictionary learning approaches have been widely used for tasks such as low-level signal denoising and restoration as well as high-level classification tasks, which can be applied to audio and image analysis. Synthesis dictionary learning aims at jointly learning a dictionary and corresponding sparse coefficients to provide accurate data representation. This approach is useful for denoising and signal restoration, but may lead to suboptimal classification performance. By contrast, analysis dictionary learning provides a transform that maps data to a sparse discriminative representation suitable for classification. We consider the problem of analysis dictionary learning for time-series data under a weak supervision setting in which signals are assigned with a global label instead of an instantaneous label signal. We propose a discriminative probabilistic model that incorporates both label information and sparsity constraints on the underlying latent instantaneous label signal using cardinality control. We present the expectation-maximization procedure for maximum likelihood estimation of the proposed model. To facilitate a computationally efficient E-step, we propose both a chain and a novel tree graph reformulation of the graphical model. The performance of the proposed model is demonstrated on both synthetic and real-world data.
Urban Terrorist Operations

The tactics of the terrorist are particularly effective in urban areas, although many of the most frequently quoted guerrilla theorists express an almost pathological fear of the city. Castro believed that “the city was the cemetery of revolutionaries.”1
Endothelin receptor agents

There are a number of endothelin receptor agonists and antagonists. Included in these groups are …
Problems Involving Triangles

The first chapter is devoted to triangles and their properties. It covers the condition of existence of a triangle, trigonometric relationship in a right triangle, Laws of sines and cosines, Pythagorean Theorem, Thales’, Menelaus’, and Ceva’s Theorems and their applications. For example, in this chapter you will find out whether or not three given points are collinear. It is well known (but you will learn how to prove it) that three medians, bisectors or three altitudes concur. What if we take some points M, N, and K on the sides of a triangle and connect them with the corresponding opposite vertex? Under what condition will such cevians concur? Topics include similar triangles, areas of triangles, lemmas on the area of triangle, properties of a bisector, median, or height dropped from the same vertex.
Construction of Polycompetitors for Competitive PCR

Many different protocols are now available for competitive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and most rely on the use of a mimic or competitor that serves as a reference for quantitation (1-4). The success (or failure) of all these protocols is critically dependent on the design, construction, and utilization of these constructs. This protocol provides detailed instructions for developing individual mimics, or competitors, for use in competitive PCR reactions. Individual competitors can be joined together in logical order in one plasmid, producing a single reagent, or polycompetitor, with multiple specificity. Although the protocol has been used successfully in producing cytokine polycompetitors, for both human and mouse (5), it should work well for almost any molecule of interest, provided sequence information is available. If a polycompetitor is to be synthesized, careful planning is especially required for a trouble-free outcome. Detailed restriction-endonuclease maps of the cloning vectors and PCR products to be cloned must be used in the design of primers and to plan appropriate strategies for incorporation of individual competitor constructs. Although many different cloning vectors may be used, in order not to be too general, this protocol provides detailed information using a commercially available vector, pGEM 11Z, and steps used in the construction of a specific polycompetitor, the human polycompetitor for T-cell cytokines, pDC10. The general principles, however, are applicable to the construction of polycom-petitors for any genes, using many different commercially available vectors.
CGI Application for Automated Creating and Updating of Subject-Oriented Internet Resources Databases

A directory of Internet resources by subject is an important section of any academic library's Web pages. A common problem faced by many libraries is the difficulty of updating such a page. At CSUSB library, we have developed a large "Internet Resources by Subject" database. Fourteen quick-launching Perl CGI scripts have been written to create a userfriendly interface to update the database, allowing all subject specialists to participate easily. Without HTML experience, a librarian can create or delete directories or sub-directories, add or delete Internet links, and add or change descriptions. The librarian just copies and pastes the URL and the description, then clicks the "Submit" button. The CGI script executes and generates new HTML pages dynamically. Files can be edited far more quickly than by traditional methods of HTML editing and FTP publishing.
In situ TEM investigation of self-ion irradiation of nanoporous gold

The ability of nanoporous metals to avoid accumulation of damage under ion beam irradiation has been the focus of several studies in recent years. The width of the interconnected ligaments forming the network structure typically is on the order of tens of nanometers. In such confined volumes with high amounts of surface area, the accumulation of damage (defects such as stacking-fault tetrahedra and dislocation loops) can be mitigated via migration and annihilation of these defects at the free surfaces. In this work, in situ characterization of radiation damage in nanoporous gold (np-Au) was performed in the transmission electron microscope. Several samples with varying average ligament size were subjected to gold ion beams having three different energies (10 MeV, 1.7 MeV and 46 keV). The inherent radiation tolerance of np-Au was directly observed in real time, for all ion beam conditions, and the degree of ion-induced damage accumulation in np-Au ligaments is discussed here.