cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Anterior cingulate engagement in a foraging context reflects choice difficulty, not foraging value.

While changes in dACC activity have traditionally been associated with variability in decision difficulty, a recent high-profile study has suggested that dACC instead encodes the value of foraging. In this study, the authors challenge this previous finding by showing that, when foraging value and decision difficulty are effectively dissociated, dACC activity corresponds to changes in choice difficulty.
DIGITAL SCHOLARLY RESOURCES FOR THE STUDY OF VICTORIAN LITERATURE AND CULTURE

My aim in this essay is to provide a categorical map to the landscape of digital resources available to enrich scholarship on Victorian literature and culture. But I also want to reflect for a moment on the general state of digital scholarly work within the larger institutional structures of our disciplines. For over a decade now, digital resources relevant to the study of nineteenth-century literature and culture have been proliferating, becoming part of the way we live now as scholars and teachers. Yet reviews of such resources in standard channels have thus far been rare. There are a number of reasons for this state of affairs, all related primarily to the fact that digital projects have developed outside the well-settled infrastructure that has supported the academic book. This infrastructure is familiar to us, involving a network of institutions that includes publishers, libraries, scholarly societies, humanities departments, and academic journals like Victorian Literature and Culture. The scene of production of digital scholarship is, by contrast, variable and dynamic, involving experimental platforms, emergent collaborations, competing standards, rapidly-evolving technologies, and unfamiliar genres. Perhaps most crucially, digital scholarly resources in our field have only recently (with the advent of NINES [http://www.nines.org] in 2005) begun to receive systematic peer-review, of which post-publication reviews in academic journals have been a part. Because digital projects are more process than finished product (i.e., they are never “done” in the way a book is), they have tended to elude the reviewers. As a result of this unsettled environment, digital scholarship still abides in the shadows of the printed monographs, articles, and editions by which we have long measured achievement in the field.
Modeling the Evolution of Decision Rules in the Human Brain

A neural network theory is proposed for how the brain develops decision rules about classes of behaviors. The networks proposed for these functions join previous theories of cortical-subcortical interactions involved in specific behavioral patterns; a psychodynamic schema for interacting character dimensions, which influence contextual tendencies toward behavior patterns; and an incipient mathematical theory, using an analog of simulated annealing in a continuous dynamical system, of switches among attractors in personality space. Implications are discussed for change in the course of a person's life, such as occur in psychotherapy.
Restoration of the cantilever bowing distortion in Atomic Force Microscopy images

Due to the mechanics of the Atomic Force Microscope (AFM), there is a curvature distortion (bowing effect) present in the acquired images. At present, flattening such images requires human intervention to manually segment object data from the background, which is time consuming and highly inaccurate. In this paper, an automated algorithm to flatten lines from AFM images is presented. The proposed method classifies the data into objects and background, and fits convex lines in an iterative fashion. Results on real images from DNA wrapped carbon nanotubes (DNA-CNTs) and synthetic experiments are presented, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm in increasing the resolution of the surface topography. In addition a link between the flattening problem and MRI inhomogeneity (shading) is given and the proposed method is compared to an entropy based MRI inhomogeniety correction method.
Reproduction of the western tarnished plant bug, Lygus hesperus, in relation to age, gonadal activity and mating status

Understanding the basic life history and underlying regulatory mechanisms for a pest insect is essential for developing targeted control strategies, but for many insects relatively little is known. Although the western tarnished plant bug, Lygus hesperus Knight (Heteroptera: Miridae) has a substantial negative impact in the western U.S., its basic biology is poorly characterized. To elucidate the regulation of L. hesperus reproductive dynamics, the onset times of gonadal activation and mating behavior were examined in young adults. Newly emerged adults reared under laboratory conditions at 25 °C were monitored daily for changes in gamete production and willingness to mate. Males matured more quickly than females. Sperm was present at emergence and a small proportion of males were willing to mate as early as 2 days post-emergence. Females were unwilling to mate until at least 5 days post-emergence, although many produced choriogenic oocytes by 4 days. Males appeared to discriminate female age and were more likely to attempt mating with females >5 days post-emergence than with younger females. Males were also able to detect previous mating and attempted to mount virgins more often than recently inseminated females. Collectively these results indicate that the changes in the mating behaviors of L. hesperus are linked to reproductive status, although there is a lag between gamete production and willingness to mate. The results also suggest that interactions of the sexes are chemically mediated.
AN EARLY STUDY OF THE SPEECH OF YOUNG BLACK CHILDREN IN CALIFORNIA: WHY IT MATTERS

This article discusses the significance and contents of Stanley Legum, Carol Pfaff, Gene Tinnie, and Michael Nicholas's 1971 report, The Speech of Young Black Children in Los Angeles. Although it is one of the first four substantial, quantitative sociolinguistic studies of AAVE nationwide and the only one from the West Coast, it was never formally published and remains essentially unknown and uncited. however, it is significant as one of the earliest studies of the speech of young (k-4th grade) African American children, as a potential reference point for studies of change in real time and for its implications for applied sociolinguistics—what we can do to improve the reading abilities and school success of African American and other vernacular English speakers. After an overview of the phonological and grammatical features covered by Legum et al., it discusses their findings with respect to the simplification of word-final consonant clusters ending in t and d, copula absence, and invariant habitual be. it then summarizes the authors' findings and their assessment of its educational implications and discusses a searing "minority dissent" by Gene Tinnie, one of the two African Americans coauthors. Tinnie's contrarian opinions and fears turn out to have significant echoes in more recent sociolinguistic work that urges researchers to consider similarities with standard English as well as differences from it, to be mindful of how educators might overuse the differences our descriptions pinpoint, and to remember the larger contexts of poverty-stricken and racism-plagued communities in which AAVE-speaking students live and go to school.
A Case of Dropped Head plus Syndrome

A patient developed neck extensor weakness along with symmetrical, mild proximal extremity weakness. Electrodiagnostic findings were minimal. Subsequently muscle biopsy was undertaken which showed myopathic changes as well as rimmed vacuoles. This case highlights the discussion of histopatholgical findings seen in neck extensor weakness when it occurs in isolation as well as when it is associated with weakness in other distribution. doi:10.4021/jocmr2009.09.1260
Angiogenesis inhibitors in the treatment of cancer

The field of cancer research has seen a marked shift in the past decade towards the exploration and development of non-conventional antitumour agents. One of the most widely studied approaches to therapy during this period has been that of antiangiogenesis. The published clinical trials and subsequent FDA approval (in February 2004) of the anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) monoclonal antibody bevacizumab (AvastinTM, Genentech) for the treatment of colorectal cancer marked a milestone for antiangiogenesis therapy. Currently, preclinical and clinical research involving therapeutic targeting of VEGF and other mediators of angiogenesis continues in multiple tumour types. In addition to colorectal cancer, angiogenesis inhibitors are being investigated in the treatment of renal cell carcinoma, head and neck carcinoma, lung cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and a variety of haematological malignancies. This article will discuss the background of antiangiogenesis research, preclinical and clini...
Media, Civil Society, and Political Culture in West Africa

From the premise that a free and democratic society is impossible without free and responsible media and an active civil society and that freedom and democracy must evolve from within a particular society in order to mature into a way of life for the society and its media, the present study examines the symbiotic role of the media and civil society in West Africa's struggle for democratic governance. It addresses the question of the independence and accountability of West Africa's media vis-a-vis foreign donors, local business, and political forces along with the effects on local audiences of giant Western/global media organizations competing in the region. The article concludes that West Africans must design their democratic model, that the West African media must be guided by normative ethics frameworks rooted in the values that inspire the region's democratic aspirations, and that global media ethics principles should mainly serve as supplemental guidelines to those frameworks.
Passive acoustic measurement of flow velocity in the Straits of Florida

Group speed of sound in moving fluids depends on the propagation direction, which breaks acoustic reciprocity. Acoustic nonreciprocity provides a means to measure fluid motion. Using nonreciprocity, one can measure fluid velocities that may be small compared to uncertainties in sound speed. Interferometry of diffuse acoustic noise, with receivers replacing the transceivers employed in active techniques, offers a simple, low-cost means of measuring nonreciprocity. Here, the feasibility of using passive measurements of acoustic nonreciprocity to estimate current velocity in the ocean is experimentally demonstrated for the first time. Estimates of depth-averaged flow velocity are retrieved from cross-correlations of low-frequency noise recorded in the Straits of Florida by near-bottom hydrophones separated by 5 and 10 km.
Effects of the ecdysoneless mutant on synaptic efficacy and structure at the neuromuscular junction in Drosophila larvae during normal and prolonged development

Abstract Hormonal regulation in development and maintenance of synaptic transmission involves examination of both the presynaptic and postsynaptic components and a system in which the hormones can be controlled. We used the ecdysoneless heat-sensitive mutation ( l(3)ecd 1 /l(3)ecd 1 ) of Drosophila to provide the ability to regulate endogenous ecdysone production at various larval stages. In conjunction, we used the neuromuscular junctions of Drosophila since they offer the advantage of assessable preparations for both morphological and physiological measures. The growth in the Ib and Is motor nerve terminals and the corresponding muscle 6 in segment 4 of the larval Drosophila throughout the third instar stage in the presence of normal and a much reduced endogenous ecdysone level was investigated. Muscle 6 and the motor nerve terminals parallel in growth throughout the third instar. The nerve terminals increase in length and varicosity number, thus providing an increase in the number of synaptic release sites. The ecdysoneless larvae also show an increase in muscle size, however the Is and Ib motor nerve terminals do not mature to the extent of the wild-type ecdysone producing flies. The motor nerve terminal length is shorter with fewer numbers of varicosities per terminal. In spite of a shorter nerve terminal and fewer varicosities, with an increasing muscle fiber, the compound excitatory junctional potentials of Ib and Is in the ecdysoneless flies are larger, which is suggestive of synaptic structural modification. This study demonstrates ecdysone’s role in modifying nerve terminal development and neuromuscular junction function.
Twelve-Step Facilitated Versus Mapping-Enhanced Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Pathological Gambling: A Controlled Study

This study examined the efficacy of two group treatments for pathological gambling, a node-link mapping-enhanced cognitive-behavioral group therapy (CBGT-mapping) and twelve-step facilitated (TSF) group treatment. Forty-nine participants meeting criteria for pathological gambling were recruited from local newspaper advertisements. These participants were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: TSF (n = 11), CBGT-mapping (n = 18), and Wait-List control (n = 9); 11 refused treatment prior to randomization. Outcome measures included number of DSM-IV criteria met, perception of control/self-efficacy, desire to gamble, and frequency of gambling episodes. Analyses revealed a significant treatment group x time interaction (η²(partial) = .39). Specifically, the group treatments resulted in significant improvements in the dependent measures, while the Wait-List group remained relatively stable. Overall, CBGT-mapping and TSF had no significant differences on any outcome measure at follow-up assessments. Analysis of post-treatment and 6-month follow-up reveal a significant improvement in gambling outcomes (i.e., fewer DSM-IV criteria met, greater self-efficacy, and fewer gambling episodes (η²(partial) = .35), with treatment gains maintained at 6 months. These results are consistent with previous research for group treatment for pathological gambling and provide support for the utility of TSF and a mapping-based CBT therapy as viable intervention for pathological gambling.
Reducing hunger vulnerability through sustainable development

The food-price inflation protests that captured the world’s attention in the spring of 2008 (1) showed that the hunger problem is bigger than we think (2). Between 75 and 133 million additional people fell into hunger that year, raising the number of hungry people in the world to over 1 billion (2, 3). The events showed that hunger is a problem for those who are both hungry and vulnerable to hunger (4). Three papers in this issue of PNAS indicate that improving local food security is a multiscale challenge (1, 5, 6), because the processes that generate hunger and unsustainable development originate in multiple locations. The contributions that these papers make show that sustainable development, defined as the successful reconciliation of economic development, environmental conservation, and social equity, is a political ecologic process and outcome (7).
KA'KAW POTS AND COMMON CONTAINERS: CREATING HISTORIES AND COLLECTIVE MEMORIES AMONG THE CLASSIC MAYA OF XUNANTUNICH, BELIZE

Reconstruction of foodways at the Lowland Maya center of Xunantunich, Belize, illustrates how commensality is fundamental to the construction of multilayered identities. Collective memory and linear histories form the foundation of identities because they are the mental frameworks people use to construct shared pasts. At Xunantunich, community identity was expressed though pottery and practices associated with the preparation of foods for domestic consumption and public offerings. In a world of natural cycles centered on family reproduction, horticultural activities, and yearly ceremonies, these symbols and rituals structured the lives of all people and embodied within them a collective memory of community. Linear histories were recorded in images and texts on drinking paraphernalia that were likely used for toasting honored individuals, ancestors, or gods during commemorative rites. These inscriptions and bodily practices marked individuals and their houses as people and places of prominence with separate identities.
Changes in interleukin-17 and transforming growth factor beta 1 levels in serum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and their clinical significance among children with asthma.

Objectives: To investigate the changes in the levels of interleukin-17 (IL-17) and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) in serum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and their clinical significance among children with asthma. Methods: A total of 56 children with asthma were divided into moderate or severe asthma (n=37) and mild asthma groups (n=19) and 18 children without asthma were selected as the control group. Cells in BALF were counted under a microscope. The levels of IL-17 and TGF-β1 in serum and BALF were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: There were no significant differences in total cell count and percentage of macrophages between the two asthma groups and the control group (P>0.05). The percentages of neutrophils, eosinophils and epithelial cells in BALF were significantly higher in the two asthma groups than in the control group (P<0.05). The two asthma groups had significantly higher levels of IL-17 and TGF-β1 in serum and BALF than the control group (P<0.05), and the moderate or severe asthma group had significantly higher levels of IL-17 and TGF-β1 in serum and BALF than in the mild asthma group (P<0.05). The serum levels of IL-17 and TGF-β1 were positively correlated with those in BALF (r=0.935 and 0.943, both P<0.05). In children with asthma, serum IL-17 level was positively correlated with the percentages of neutrophils, eosinophils, and epithelial cells in BALF (r=0.802, 0.799, and 0.674, all P<0.05), and a positive correlation was also seen between serum levels of IL-17 and TGF-β1 (r=0.878, P<0.05). Conclusions: Levels of IL-17 and TGF-β1 in serum and BALF are elevated in children with asthma. IL-17 and TGF-β1 may be involved in the occurrence and development of asthma, and they play important roles in asthma attack and aggravation.
Preparation and Instability of Nanocrystalline Cuprous Nitride

Low-dimensional cuprous nitride (Cu3N) was synthesized by nitridation (ammonolysis) of cuprous oxide (Cu2O) nanocrystals using either ammonia (NH3) or urea (H2NCONH2) as the nitrogen source. The resulting nanocrystalline Cu3N spontaneously decomposes to nanocrystalline CuO in the presence of both water and oxygen from air at room temperature. Ammonia was produced in 60% chemical yield during Cu3N decomposition, as measured using the colorimetric indophenol method. Because Cu3N decomposition requires H2O and produces substoichiometric amounts of NH3, we conclude that this reaction proceeds through a complex stoichiometry that involves the concomitant release of both N2 and NH3. This is a thermodynamically unfavorable outcome, strongly indicating that H2O (and thus NH3 production) facilitate the kinetics of the reaction by lowering the energy barrier for Cu3N decomposition. The three different Cu2O, Cu3N, and CuO nanocrystalline phases were characterized by a combination of optical absorption, powder X-ray ...
Distributed MPC for Dynamic Supply Chain Management

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the application of a recently developed theory for distributed nonlinear model predictive control (NMPC) to a promising domain for NMPC: dynamic management of supply chain networks. Recent work by the first author provides a distributed implementation of NMPC for application in large scale systems comprised of cooperative dynamic subsystems. By the implementation, each subsystem optimizes locally for its own policy, and communicates the most recent policy to those subsystems to which it is coupled. Stabilization and feasibility are guaranteed for arbitrary interconnection topologies, provided each subsystem not deviate too far from the previous policy, consistent with traditional MPC move suppression penalties. In this paper, we demonstrate the scalability and performance of the distributed implementation in a supply chain simulation example, where stages in the chain update in parallel and in the presence of cycles in the interconnection network topology. Using anticipative action, the implementation shows improved performance when compared to a nominal management policy that is derived in the supply chain literature and verified by real supply chain data.
Adverse Effects of Childhood Emotional Maltreatment on Child Behavioral Outcomes

ABSTRACTThis study used a diverse community sample to test a moderated mediation model, investigating maternal depressive symptoms as a mediator of the relations between maternal emotional maltreatment and child behavior problems; we further tested the moderating effects of observed maternal hostility on these relations. Participants included 64 mother–child dyads (8–11 years old; 59.4% female), in which mothers completed self- and child-report measures and dyads completed a conflict resolution task. Results of a moderated mediation analysis (PROCESS; Hayes, 2013) indicated that the maternal history of emotional maltreatment was associated with increased maternal depressive symptoms, and subsequently with higher child externalizing problems. In addition, these relations were strongest at high levels of observed maternal hostility in the conflict task.
Task Productivity of Continuing and Zero-History Groups in Two Communication Networks:

Two continuing and zero-history groups of 5 undergraduate male students each completed sentence-completion problems in two communication networks, the comcon and the wheel. Content analysis of these tape-recorded sessions showed significant differences in the types and number of messages each group used in problem solving. For the wheel, network subjects were also significantly slower in sentence-completion than for the comcon. The results indicate that members of highly cohesive groups require “sociability” messages which detract somewhat from task productivity in order to facilitate interpersonal warmth.
An investigation on the mixing and flame behavior of microcombustors

The paper delineates a numerical study on the mixing and combustion dynamics of methane and air inside a 5mm high and 40 mm long 2-D channel microcombustor. To understand the flow-field history and its relation with local flame-chemistry of a microcombustor the compressible Navier-Stokes equations with a single-step reaction kinetics are solved numerically over a 2-D computational domain. It is found that at all operating conditions (lean, stoichiometric and rich) the primary reaction zones are located in the central plane of the combustor at the downstream of the fuel impingement point. Compared to the lean case, the reaction zones are thicker in stoichiometric and rich conditions. However, the lean operating condition yields the highest central plane combustion temperature (1300K – 2000K). It also appears that the fuel needs to travel the entire combustor length to react with the air even at the lean condition and a significant amount of fuel may escape the combustor unreacted. Hence an improved and unconventional injection scheme needs to be devised to shorten the mixing length.
Distribute Regulation And Log Response Character Of Oil Reservoir In Northwest WangYao

According to Well logging information,referring to drilling and testing data,Oil reservoir is evaluated comprehensively in Northwest WangYao AnSai Oil Field,Moreover,distribute regulation of oil reservoir is confirmed preliminarily.
Teaching English Grammar to Speakers of Other Languages

Preface PART IPrinciples and Foundations of Grammar Teaching 1 The Importance of the Discourse Level in Understanding and Teaching English Grammar Marianne Celce-Murcia 2 Teaching Grammar: English as an International Language Sandra Lee McKay 3 Using Corpus Linguistics to Improve the Teaching of Grammar Susan Conrad 4 Grammar in Student Books vs. Grammar That Students Need: Which Grammar to Include, Which Grammar to Omit Keith S. Folse 5 Functional Approaches to Teaching Grammar in the Second Language Classroom Anne Burns PART IIStrategies and Techniques 6 Grammar Practice Penny Ur 7 Grammar Teaching as Consciousness Raising Rod Ellis 8 12 Principles of Grammar Instruction Jack C. Richards and Randi Reppen 9 Practical Grammar Teaching: Grammar Constructions and Their Relatives Eli Hinkel PART IIIGrammar for Productive Skills: Speaking and Writing 10 Teaching Grammar at the Advanced Level Michael J. McCarthy 11 Promoting Grammar and Language Development in the Writing Class: Why, What, How, and When Dana R. Ferris 12 Writing with Attitude: Conveying a Stance in Academic Texts Ken Hyland List of Contributors Index
Supratentorial pressures. Part II: Intracerebral pulse waves.

AbstractIntracerebral pulse waves were recorded in cat and monkey while intracranial pressure (ICP) manipulations were performed. The intracerebral pulse waves appeared comparable to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pulsations. The wave forms were divided into multiple smaller waves, designated P1 to P4. The P1 component was primarily of arterial origin and was accentuated by increasing ICP unrelated to increased venous pressure, most commonly from a mass lesion. Bilateral carotid occlusion resulted in decreased amplitude of P7. Venous hypertension from jugular venous or sagittal sinus occlusion, on the other hand, accentuated waves P2 and P3 more than P7. This is consistent with a Starling resistor model of the cerebral venous system in which mass lesions may compress low-pressure veins and accentuate the arterial pressure-dependent P1 wave, whereas venous hypertension causes increased prominence of the later P2 and P3 waves.
Child-Centered Group Play Therapy: Impact on Social-Emotional Assets of Kindergarten Children.

The current study explored the effects of child-centered group play therapy (CCGPT) on social-emotional assets of kindergarten children and the therapeutic aspect of group sizes in CCGPT outcome. A total of 43 participants were randomly assigned to either the intervention or waitlist control groups. We used Parent and Teacher forms of Social Emotional Assets and Resilience Scales (SEARS). Factorial ANOVA results indicated a statistically significant interaction effect on SEARS–P Total score, Social Competence subscale, and Empathy subscale indicating positive impact of CCGPT. SEARS–T indicated no statistically significant differences between groups. Group size resulted in similar results.
Acute unilateral blindness as the initial symptom of meningeosis lymphomatosa

The development of Meningeosis lymphomatosa is a rare event even in high grade Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, often without any typical clinical signs. We report a case, where a unilateral sudden loss of vision was the first symptom of meningeosis lymphomatosa and indicated a generalized relapse in the patient, who seemed so far to be in complete remission.
Kinetics of cis-dichlorodiammineplatinum

The cancer chemotherapeutic cis-dichlorodiammineplatinum (cis-DDP) was administered to 8 patients (1-hr intravenous infusion) at a dose of 70 mg/m2. Plasma and urine concentrations of platinum were determined by flameless atomic absorption spectrometry. Measured plasma platinum concentrations revealed a biphasic clearance of platinum with half-life values of 23 min and 67 hr. Platinum values obtained 3 wk after the infusion indicated that a third excretory phase might be present. Urinary measurements showed 17 +/- 2.7% of the administered dose excreted in the first 4 hr and 23 +/- 3.9% excreted in the first 24 hr. Renal excretion appears to be predominantly by glomerular filtration. Non-protein-bound plasma platinum values were calculated and the non-protein-bound platinum was found to be rapidly and biphasically cleared from the plasma with half-life values of 8 to 10 min and 40 to 45 min.
Heavy Exotic Molecules with Charm and Bottom

Abstract We revisit the formation of pion-mediated heavy-light exotic molecules with both charm and bottom and their chiral partners under the general strictures of both heavy-quark and chiral symmetry. The chiral exotic partners with good parity formed using the ( 0 + , 1 + ) multiplet are about twice more bound than their primary exotic partners formed using the ( 0 − , 1 − ) multiplet. The chiral couplings across the multiplets ( 0 ± , 1 ± ) cause the chiral exotic partners to unbind, and the primary exotic molecules to be about twice more bound, for J ≤ 1 . Our multi-channel coupling results show that only the charm isosinglet exotic molecules with J P C = 1 + + bind, which we identify as the reported neutral X ( 3872 ) . Also, the bottom isotriplet exotic with J P C = 1 + − binds, which we identify as a mixture of the reported charged exotics Z b + ( 10610 ) and Z b + ( 10650 ) . The bound isosinglet with J P C = 1 + + is suggested as a possible neutral X b ( 10532 ) not yet reported.
The Subthalamic Nucleus

The glutamatergic subthalamic nucleus (STN) is a key node in the cortico-basal ganglia-thalamo-cortical circuit. As a component of the hyperdirect and indirect pathways, the STN is important for constraining movement, thought, and emotion through synaptic excitation of GABAergic basal ganglia output neurons. The STN also forms a reciprocally connected network with the GABAergic external globus pallidus that converges onto common basal ganglia output neurons. Abnormally correlated, rhythmic activity in this network is critical for the symptomatic expression of both Parkinson's disease and impulse control disorders, such as obsessive–compulsive disorder. The STN is therefore a clinically significant target for therapeutic deep-brain stimulation in these diseases. In this chapter, I will review the morphological, synaptic, and integrative properties of STN neurons and the relationship of their activity patterns in vivo to both normal and abnormal behavior.
Text Message Reminders Increase Appointment Adherence in a Pediatric Clinic: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background. High no-show rates can burden clinic productivity and affect patient care. Although multiple studies have shown that text messages improve appointment adherence, very little research has focused on low-income and predominantly African American populations in resident clinic settings. Objectives. To determine whether incorporating a text message reminder reduces the no-show rate at an urban, pediatric resident clinic. Methods. A randomized controlled trial was conducted at a tertiary level ambulatory pediatric practice between August 2014 and February 2015. Following a demographic survey, 170 patients were enrolled. Patients were randomized into control or intervention groups. All patients received the standard voice message appointment reminder, but the intervention group additionally received a text message reminder. The primary outcome was no-show rate. Results. 95.3% of the participants were African American, and the overall no-show rate was 30.8%. No-show rate was significantly lower in the intervention group (23.5%) than the control group (38.1%) representing a difference of 14.6% (p = 0.04). No demographic factors were found to alter the association between no-show rate and text message intervention. Conclusions. Text message reminders effectively improve show rates at a resident pediatric practice with high no-show rates, representing a promising approach to improving appointment adherence.
Opioids for nonmalignant chronic pain.

Even when addiction is not a concern, opioids are not a good choice of painkiller for patients with chronic neuropathic pain, who instead might be prescribed neuropathic pain medications, referred to a specialist, or offered spinal cord stimulation.
Abstract 333: Chemokine and Autophagy-Related Genes in Novel In Vivo and In Vitro Models for Viral Myocarditis

Picornavirus infection is one of leading causes of myocarditis in humans. Theiler9s murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV) belongs to the genus Cardiovirus , the family Picornaviridae . While TMEV has been used as a mouse model for multiple sclerosis (MS), TMEV can also cause myocarditis in mice. We found that the susceptibilities of mouse strains to myocarditis differed from susceptibilities to the MS model. In the heart, we detected viral replication and inflammation. However, it is unclear whether virus itself or immune cells damaged the heart. To clarify the role of direct virus infection in myocarditis we used the cardiomyocyte cell line, HL-1, which retains a differentiated cardiomyocyte phenotype and contractile activity. We infected HL-1 with TMEV and monitored cytopathic effect (CPE) and cell viability. At 8 hours post infection (hpi), HL-1 cells developed CPE with decreased contractile activities, while cell death was not obvious. We detected 54% and 93% of cell death at 12 and 24 hpi, respectively, while no cell death was observed in mock-infection. We conducted microarray analyses to compare mRNA expression patterns between TMEV and mock-infected groups, using an Affymetrix GeneChip Mouse 1.0 ST Array. Principal component analysis (PCA) for microarray data clearly separated TMEV- and mock-infected groups (PC1 proportion of variance, 59%). TMEV infection induced high expression of several interferon-associated and chemokine genes, particularly Cxcl10/IP-10 . Cxcl10 is a potent chemoattractant for activated T cells and NK cells, and its potential roles have been associated with immune cells in other myocarditis models. Our current results demonstrated that virus infection alone could induce Cxcl10 in cardiomyocytes without immune cells. We also found upregulation of autophagy-related 12 gene ( Atg12 ). In general, autophagy can contribute to eradication of intracellular pathogens including viruses. However, since induction of autophagy by picornavirus has been shown to enhance virus replication, autophagy may also play a detrimental role in TMEV-induced myocarditis. Our novel in viv o and in vitro models of myocarditis are powerful tools to dissect the role of viral and immune pathogenesis of the heart, complementing each other.
Willingness to pay in negative restaurant service encounters

Abstract The aim of this research is to propose and test a comprehensive research model to understand the influence of food quality, service quality, ambiance, and value on consumer WTP in negative service encounters. Using DINESERV as the theoretical background, a mixed methodology (ANOVA and structural equation modeling) was utilized for the study using a between-subjects experimental design. Data was collected using an online survey from students (Study 1) as well as restaurant consumers (Study 2). The structural equation modeling provided evidence for the arguments that food quality, ambiance, and value are significant predictors of customer WTP in a negative restaurant service encounter. Theoretical and managerial implications were discussed.
Beyond the STRs: A comprehensive view of current forensic DNA markers characterized in the PCR-based DNA profiling standard SRM 2391D

Abstract Capillary electrophoresis (CE) of the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) core set of 20 Short Tandem Repeat (STR) markers [1] is the primary genotyping method for forensic human identification in the U.S. With the emergence of new technologies beyond CE testing, other categories of forensic DNA markers are now more readily available. The next iteration of the PCR-Based DNA Profiling Standard Reference Material, SRM 2391d, will contain allele calls and sequence information for forensically relevant markers available in commercial kits. The SRM components will be characterized using CE and next-generation sequencing (NGS). With NGS technology, more data can be mined from these reference samples than previous generations of this SRM. This paper will focus on data from the forensic DNA markers beyond the common autosomal, Y-STR, and X-STR markers to include: insertion/deletions, ancestry single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), identity SNPs, phenotypic SNPs, microhaplotypes and mitochondrial whole genome sequencing. The primary emphasis will be an analysis of the information gained from using NGS vs CE technology with the reference samples going "Beyond the STRs".
Eulerian properties of non-commuting and non-cyclic graphs of finite groups

For a non-abelian group G, the non-commuting graph Γ(G) has G−Z(G) as its vertex set and two vertices x and y are connected by an edge if xy≠yx. For a non-cyclic group G, the non-cyclic graph Γ′(G)...
Sex- and Gender-Based Medicine: The Need for Precise Terminology

Abstract As our knowledge of sex- and gender-based medicine (SGBM) continues to grow, attention to precision in the use of related terminology is critical. Unfortunately, the terms sex and gender a...
Who benefits most from early salvage radiation therapy after prostatectomy

We are grateful for the opportunity to provide commentary on the recent work by Fossati et al ., entitled “Impact of Early Salvage Radiation Therapy in Patients with Persistently Elevated or Rising Prostate-specific Antigen After Radical Prostatectomy” (1). The optimal post-operative management of patients with prostate cancer who undergo radical prostatectomy (RP) is unclear. In general, there are two strategies for approaching radiotherapy. Adjuvant radiation therapy (ART) typically refers to post-operative radiation in the setting of high risk pathologic features but with an undetectable post-prostatectomy PSA, where the presence of residual prostate cancer is suspected but unknown. In this setting, radiation is typically delivered within a few months of surgery once there has been adequate recovery of urinary function. In contrast, salvage radiation therapy (SRT) refers to post-operative radiation in the setting of a rising or persistently detectable PSA, indicative of active prostate cancer and may be delivered several years after the initial RP (2). However, it is important to note that these definitions lack consensus.
Near-infrared dental imaging using scanning fiber endoscope

Near-infrared (NIR) wavelength range of 1300-1500nm has the potential to outperform or augment other dental imaging modalities such as fluorescence imaging, owing to its lower scattering coefficient in enamel and trans- parency on stains and non-cariogenic plaque. However, cameras in this wavelength range are bulky and expensive, which lead to difficulties for in-vivo use and commercialization. Thus, we have proposed a new imaging device combining the scanning fiber endoscopy (SFE) and NIR imaging technology. The NIR SFE system has the advantage of miniature size (1.6 mm), flexible shaft, video frame rate (7Hz) and expandable wide field-of-view (60 degrees). Eleven extracted human teeth with or without occlusal caries were scanned by micro-computed X-ray tomography (micro-CT) to obtain 3D micro-CT images, which serve as the standard for comparison. NIR images in reflection mode were then taken on all the occlusal surfaces, using 1310nm super luminescent diode and 1460nm laser diode respectively. Qualitative comparison was performed between near-infrared im- ages and micro-CT images. Enamel demineralization in NIR appeared as areas of increased reflectivity, and distinguished from non-carious staining at the base of occlusal fissures or developmental defects on cusps. This preliminary work presented proof for practicability of combining NIR imaging technology with SFE for reliable and noninvasive dental imaging with miniaturization and low cost.
Intra-urban inequalities in water access among households in Malawi's informal settlements: toward pro-poor urban water policies in Africa.

Abstract Poor access to potable water remains one of the most troubling challenges in Sub-Saharan Africa’s informal settlements (or slums) where majority of the poor and vulnerable urban population lives. While prior research shows significant disparities in water access between urban and rural areas, little is known about intra-urban inequalities and whether they are influenced by household socio-economic status. This paper draws from household surveys in three urban informal settlements in Lilongwe, Malawi, to explore intra-urban differences in water access based on water source, volume of water per capita, total time/day spent fetching water, and affordability of primary water source. It first compares the proportion of respondents that have access to water based on Malawi’s (national) and the United Nations and World Health Organization’s (international) minimum standards. It then uses linear and logistic regressions to examine socio-economic inequalities in water access. The results show inconsistencies in the proportion of households that satisfy Malawi versus the United Nations and World Health Organization minimum water-access standards. Household socio-economic status (SES) significantly influenced water access, underscoring the need for pro-poor water policies that recognize that even among households in predominantly poor and under-resourced urban settings, significant socio-economic differences underlie inequalities in water access.
Developing a Policy Flight Simulator to Facilitate the Adoption of an Evidence-Based Intervention

While the use of evidence-based interventions (EBIs) has been advocated by the medical research community for quite some time, uptake of these interventions by healthcare providers has been slow. One possible explanation is that it is challenging for providers to estimate impacts of a specific EBI on their particular organization. To address that concern, we developed and evaluated a type of simulation called a policy flight simulator to determine if it could improve the adoption decision about a specific EBI, the transitional care model (TCM). The TCM uses an advanced practice nurse-led model of care to transition older adults with multiple chronic conditions from a hospitalization to home. An evaluation by a National Advisory Committee, made up of senior representatives from various stakeholders in the U.S. healthcare system, found the policy flight simulator to be a useful tool that has the potential to better inform adoption decisions. This paper describes the simulation development effort and documents lessons learned that may be useful to the healthcare modeling community and those interested in using simulation to support decisions based on EBIs.
Robust band gaps in the graphene/oxide heterostructure: SnO/graphene/SnO

The applicability of graphene in nanoscale devices is somewhat limited because of the absence of a finite band gap. To overcome this limitation of zero band gap, we consider vertically-stacked heterostructures consisting of graphene and SnO knowing that two-dimensional SnO films were synthesized recently. Calculations based on density functional theory find that the oxide monolayer can induce a notable band gap in graphene; 115 meV in SnO/graphene/SnO heterostructures. Additionally, the band gap of graphene can be maintained under a relatively high electric field (≈109 V m-1) applied to the heterostructures because of the electrostatic screening effect of the oxide layer. The calculated results suggest the relative superiority of the graphene/oxide heterostructures over graphene/BN heterostructures for the nanoscale devices based on graphene.
Some problems in ramsey theory

Some exact results in generalized Ramsey theory are given — others are conjectured. For example, all known results for the Ramsey number of the cycle — complete graphs are presented with attention focused on the unsolved parts. Non-standard results include introduction of "edge minimal" graphs that "arrow" a pair of graphs.
Genetic Differences in Chicken Splenic Immune Gene Expression in Response to Dietary Immune Modulation

and Implications Chickens from broiler, Leghorn, and Fayoumi lines were fed diets with ingredients to affect immune function: β-glucans, ascorbic acid, or corticosterone. Spleens were tested for expression of genes involved in immune response: interleukin-4 (IL-4), IL-6, IL-18, and macrophage inflammatory protein-1β (MIP-1β). Birds from the broiler line did not show any change in splenic gene expression associated with the dietary immunomodulators, perhaps due to the stringent selection of these birds for growth. The corticosterone diet was associated with increased expression of IL-4, indicative of an immune response relying primarily on humoral defenses. The Leghorn and Fayoumi lines showed opposing changes in expression of IL-4, IL-6, and IL-18 in response to the ascorbic acid and β-glucans enhanced diets, suggesting that processing of these immunomodulators and/or immune signaling in these lines are different. Our findings emphasize the need to further evaluate the effects of dietary immunomodulators before applying them in commercial settings.
Gender and Cancer

Cancer is a group of diseases distinguished by the rapid and uncontrolled multiplication and spread of abnormal cells. Rates of specific cancers vary widely between men and women and across nations, due both to biologically and socioculturally determined factors. The role of sex and gender in cancer etiology, prevention, and treatment is determined by complex, interacting variables that differ somewhat by cancer site. A comprehensive understanding requires consideration of physiology, anatomy, hormones, behavior, lifestyle, environment, and access to medical care. Research is needed that goes beyond simple description to consider these multiple causal pathways within a multidisciplinary, biopsychosocial model.
Science and technology of electrochemistry at nano-interfaces: concluding remarks

The Faraday Discussion on electrochemistry at nano-interfaces presented a platform for an incredibly diverse array of advances in electrochemical nanoscience and nanotechnology. In this summary, I have identified the factors which drive the development of the science and which ultimately support many impressive technological advances described. Prime among these are the emergence of new physical behaviors when device dimensions approach characteristic physical scaling lengths, the steadily increasing importance of surfaces as device dimensions shrink, and the capacity to fabricate and utilize structures which are commensurate in size with molecules, especially biomolecules and biomolecular complexes. In this Faraday Discussion we were treated to outstanding examples of each of these nanoscience drivers to produce new, and in many cases unexpected, electrochemical phenomena that would not be observed at larger scales. The main thrust of these collective activities has been to realize the promise implicit in several transformational experiments that were carried out in the last decades of the 20th century. Our task is not complete, and we can look forward to many additional developments springing from the same intellectual wellhead.
Minimizing Induced Drag with Lift Distribution and Wingspan

Minimum induced drag for fixed gross weight and wingspan is obtained from the elliptic lift distribution. However, minimum induced drag for steady level flight is not obtained by imposing the const...
Development of a Robust, Sparsely-Activated, and Deep Recurrent Neural Network Controller for Flight Applications

Inspired by recent deep learning control research, we develop a sparse and deep neural network architecture and training methodology in order to control a hypersonic flight vehicle with flexible body effects. We leverage a sample-based trajectory training methodology established in our previous work to optimize the weights of the recurrent neural network controller for both performance and robustness. We show that an innovative sparsely-connected control architecture can significantly reduce the computation load on the processor during run-time while improving parameter convergence during optimization. By decomposing the weights of the controller into feed-forward and feed-back elements, we develop a systematic training procedure which further improves optimization results. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the sparse deep learning controller approach through simulation results. Additionally, we explore verifying the robustness metrics of the controller using region of attraction estimation via forward reachable sets.