cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Adherence to nucleos(t)ide analogues for chronic hepatitis B in clinical practice and correlation with virological breakthroughs.

SUMMARY. Medication adherence is important for the success of nucleos(t)ide analogue (NUC) treatment for chronic hepatitis B. The aims of this study were to determine adherence to NUCs and factors associated with NUC adherence and to correlate NUC adherence with the occurrence of virological breakthroughs in patients with chronic hepatitis B. Consecutive patients with chronic hepatitis B receiving NUC were asked to complete a survey every 3 months. Adherence was also assessed by healthcare providers in the clinic. Adherence rate was defined as the per cent of days the patients took their hepatitis B virus medications during the last 30 days. A total of 111 patients were studied. The mean age was 47.7 years, 73.9% were men, 57.7% were Asian, 42.3% had postgraduate education and 80% had private insurance. Sixtynine (74.1%) patients reported 100% adherence in the survey, while 78 (83.9%) reported 100% adherence to their healthcare providers. Patients with 100% adherence based on the survey were older (P = 0.02), more likely to be men (P = 0.006), and had higher annual household income (P = 0.04) than those with <100% adherence. In the 80 patients who completed three surveys, viral breakthrough was observed in 1/46 (2.2%) with 100% adherence on all three surveys, 1/18 (5.6%) with <100% adherence on one survey and 3/16 (18.8%) with <100% adherence on ‡2 surveys, (P = 0.06). In conclusion, adherence to NUC therapy in our patients with chronic hepatitis B was high but self-reporting of adherence to healthcare providers may be inflated. Patients with chronic hepatitis B with better adherence to NUC therapy had a trend towards a lower rate of viral breakthroughs.
Polymer nanocomposite films with extremely high nanoparticle loadings via capillary rise infiltration (CaRI)

Polymer nanocomposite films (PNCFs) with extremely high concentrations of nanoparticles are important components in energy storage and conversion devices and also find use as protective coatings in various applications. PNCFs with high loadings of nanoparticles, however, are difficult to prepare because of the poor processability of polymer-nanoparticle mixtures with high concentrations of nanoparticles even at an elevated temperature. This problem is exacerbated when anisotropic nanoparticles are the desired filler materials. Here we report a straightforward method for generating PNCFs with extremely high loadings of nanoparticles. Our method is based on what we call capillary rise infiltration (CaRI) of polymer into a dense packing of nanoparticles. CaRI consists of two simple steps: (1) the preparation of a two-layer film, consisting of a porous layer of nanoparticles and a layer of polymer and (2) annealing of the bilayer structure above the temperature that imparts mobility to the polymer (e.g., glass transition of the polymer). The second step leads to polymer infiltration into the interstices of the nanoparticle layer, reminiscent of the capillary rise of simple fluid into a narrow capillary or a packing of granules. We use in situ spectroscopic ellipsometry and a three-layer Cauchy model to follow the capillary rise of polystyrene into the random network of nanoparticles. The infiltration of polystyrene into a densely packed TiO2 nanoparticle layer is shown to follow the classical Lucas–Washburn type of behaviour. We also demonstrate that PNCFs with densely packed anisotropic TiO2 nanoparticles can be readily generated by spin coating anisotropic TiO2 nanoparticles atop a polystyrene film and subsequently thermally annealing the bilayer film. We show that CaRI leads to PNCFs with modulus, hardness and scratch resistance that are far superior to the properties of films of the component materials. In addition, CaRI fills in cracks that may exist in the nanoparticle layer, leading to the healing of nanoparticle films and the formation of defect-free PNCFs. We believe this approach is widely applicable for the preparation of PNCFs with extremely high loading of nanoparticles and potentially provides a unique approach to study capillarity-induced transport of polymers under extreme confinement.
Long-term follow-up for efficacy and safety of treatment of retinitis pigmentosa with valproic acid

Aims The purpose of this study was to determine the long-term efficacy and safety of valproic acid (VPA) treatment in patients with pigmentary retinal dystrophies. Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted on 31 patients with a diagnosis of pigmentary retinal dystrophy prescribed VPA at a single centre. Visual field (VF), visual acuity (VA), length of treatment, liver enzymes and side effects were analysed. VF areas were defined using Goldmann VF (GVF) tracings recorded before, during and after VPA treatment using the V4e isopter for each eye. Using custom software, planimetric areas of VF were calculated. Results Five of the patients (10 eyes) had two Goldmann VF tracings, allowing comparison between baseline and follow-up VF. After 9.8 months of VPA, VF decreased by 0.145 cm 2 (26.478%) (p=0.432). For 22 of the patients (41 eyes), VA data was available, and logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) score changed by 0.056 log units (representing a decline in VA) after 14.9 months on VPA (p=0.002). Twelve patients (38.7%) reported negative side effects related to VPA use. Conclusions VPA plays a complex role in patients with pigmentary retinal dystrophies and may be associated with VA and field decline as well as adverse side effects. Physicians should use caution with using VPA for pigmentary retinal dystrophies.
A high-density gene map of loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) based on exome sequence capture genotyping.

Loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) is an economically and ecologically important conifer for which a suite of genomic resources is being generated. Despite recent attempts to sequence the large genome of conifers, their assembly and the positioning of genes remains largely incomplete. The interspecific synteny in pines suggests that a gene-based map would be useful to support genome assemblies and analysis of conifers. To establish a reference gene-based genetic map, we performed exome sequencing of 14729 genes on a mapping population of 72 haploid samples, generating a resource of 7434 sequence variants segregating for 3787 genes. Most markers are single-nucleotide polymorphisms, although short insertions/deletions and multiple nucleotide polymorphisms also were used. Marker segregation in the population was used to generate a high-density, gene-based genetic map. A total of 2841 genes were mapped to pine’s 12 linkage groups with an average of one marker every 0.58 cM. Capture data were used to detect gene presence/absence variations and position 65 genes on the map. We compared the marker order of genes previously mapped in loblolly pine and found high agreement. We estimated that 4123 genes had enough sequencing depth for reliable detection of markers, suggesting a high marker conversation rate of 92% (3787/4123). This is possible because a significant portion of the gene is captured and sequenced, increasing the chances of identifying a polymorphic site for characterization and mapping. This sub-centiMorgan genetic map provides a valuable resource for gene positioning on chromosomes and guide for the assembly of a reference pine genome.
Differential effects of dietary fat on the tissue-specific expression of the apolipoprotein A-I gene: relationship to plasma concentration of high density lipoproteins

Isocaloric substitution of polyunsaturated fat for saturated fat reduces concentrations of total plasma cholesterol and high density lipoproteins (HDL) in nonhuman primates. The biochemical mechanisms through which polyunsaturated fat lowers plasma HDL concentrations are not well understood but must involve changes in HDL production or HDL clearance from plasma, or both. To determine whether dietary polyunsaturated fat (P/S = 2.2) alters apolipoprotein (apo) A-I production, African green monkeys (Cercopithecus aethiops) were fed diets containing polyunsaturated fat or saturated fat (P/S = 0.3) each in combination with high (0.8 mg/kcal) and low (0.03 mg/kcal) amounts of dietary cholesterol. Animals fed polyunsaturated fat at either cholesterol level had lower plasma concentrations of total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol. Plasma apoA-I concentration was reduced by 16% by polyunsaturated fat in the high cholesterol group. The rate of hepatic apoA-I secretion, as estimated by the accumulation of perfusate apoA-I during recirculating liver perfusion, was reduced by 19% in animals consuming the high cholesterol, polyunsaturated fat diet. Hepatic apoA-I mRNA concentrations, as measured by DNA-excess solution hybridization, also were reduced by 22% in the high cholesterol, polyunsaturated fat-fed animals. In contrast, intestinal apoA-I mRNA concentrations were not altered by the type of dietary fat. Plasma apoA-II and hepatic apoA-II mRNA concentrations also were not altered by the type of dietary fat. These data indicate that dietary polyunsaturated fat can selectively alter the expression of the apoA-I gene in a tissue-specific manner.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Important but Incomplete: Plan B as an Avenue for Post-assault Care

Many survivors of rape do not seek post-assault care. The recent change in status of emergency contraception (EC), such as Plan B, to an over-the-counter (OTC) product may be further changing post-assault care seeking. This descriptive study will quantify OTC EC use in the post-assault period and elicit survivors’ desires for care. Data were collected from women purchasing OTC EC at university pharmacies (n = 55) and students in an undergraduate university class (n = 165). Quantitative results indicate annual prevalence rates of post-assault OTC EC use as 5.4–7.3 %. Qualitative analyses indicate that OTC EC is an important but incomplete form of post-assault care. Future work should focus on intervention development to provide all OTC EC users with information about post-assault resources to prevent long-term sequelae.
Abstract W MP38: Apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA-I) Mimetic Peptide, D-4F, Regulates miRNA Expression and Improves Functional Outcome after Stroke in Diabetic Rats

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus (DM) in patients is associated with low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and impairment of the anti-oxidative capacity of HDL-C. Several miRNAs have been identified as having a physiological role in tissues in which diabetes complications occur. D-4F is an economical ApoA-I mimetic peptide which increases HDL function. We therefore investigated the therapeutic effect and underlying mechanisms of D-4F treatment of stroke induced functional benefit effects in type one DM (T1DM) rats. Methods: T1DM was induced in Wistar rats by streptozotocin (60mg/kg, ip) .Subsequently they were subjected to embolic middle cerebral artery occlusion. D-4F (10 mg/kg i.p.) was administered at 2h, 24h and 48h after stroke. Functional outcomes, brain blood barrier (BBB) leakage and lesion volume were evaluated. Results: D-4F treatment of stroke in T1DM rats significantly decreased Evans Blue dye leakage (15.85±1.52 ng/mg vs contro: 30.57± 5.88 ng/mg) and significantly improved functional outcome compared to non-treatment T1DM-control. D-4F treatment significantly increased miR-124a and miR-181c, but decreased miR-200b expression in the ischemic brain. Using laser capture, D-4F also significantly increased ischemic brain endothelial cell miR-126 expression compared to non-treatment control. In addition, D-4F treatment significantly decreased miR-181c target gene tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-a), and miR-124a target gene monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP1) expression. D-4F also decreased proinflammatory nuclear NFkB (26.07±3.17 vs 37.43±3.47), Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4, 7.26±0.69 vs 10.5±1.2), matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9, 0.16±0.04 vs 0.48±0.09) expression, and increased CD163 (M2 macrophage marker, 120.98±8.13 vs 85.02± 9.47) number compared to T1DM-MCAo control rats. Conclusion: D-4F treatment of stroke in T1DM rats regulates miRNA expression and their target gene and protein expression and induces anti-inflammatory effects and promotes M2 macrophage polarization which may contribute to D-4F decreased BBB leakage and induced functional benefit effects after stroke in T1DM rats.
Evidence for maternal control of seed size in maize from phenotypic and transcriptional analysis

Seed size is an important component of grain yield and a key determinant trait for crop domestication. The Krug Yellow Dent long-term selection experiment for large and small seed provides a valuable resource to dissect genetic and phenotypic changes affecting seed size within a common genetic background. In this study, inbred lines derived from Krug Large Seed (KLS) and Krug Small Seed (KSS) populations and reciprocal F1 crosses were used to investigate developmental and molecular mechanisms governing seed size. Seed morphological characteristics showed striking differences between KLS and KSS inbred lines, and the reciprocal cross experiment revealed a strong maternal influence on both seed weight and seed size. Quantification of endosperm area, starchy endosperm cell size, and kernel dry mass accumulation indicated a positive correlation between seed size, endosperm cell number, and grain filling rate, and patterns of grain filling in reciprocal crosses mirrored that of the maternal parent. Consistent with the maternal contribution to seed weight, transcriptome profiling of reciprocal F1 hybrids showed substantial similarities to the maternal parent. A set of differentially expressed genes between KLS and KSS inbreds were found, which fell into a broad number of functional categories including DNA methylation, nucleosome assembly, and heat stress response. In addition, gene co-expression network analysis of parental inbreds and reciprocal F1 hybrids identified co-expression modules enriched in ovule development and DNA methylation, implicating these two processes in seed size determination. These results expand our understanding of seed size regulation and help to uncover the developmental and molecular basis underlying maternal control of seed size in maize.
Proposed List of 'Competencies' for an Entry-Level Business Lawyer

This list is an initial list prepared by the task force noted above, most recently reviewed by the Legal Education Committee of the ABA Business Law Section at the Spring Meeting of the Section in April 2015. It will continue to be discussed, reviewed and revised, with an aim to providing more detailed materials for teaching or study by new lawyers, would-be lawyers, and trainers and employers of new lawyers. These would include, for example, specific scenarios and skillsets and checklists (such as “due diligence” or “closing documents”).This is by no means an all-inclusive list, and does not focus on specific areas, such as business formation, real estate, borrowing and lending, securities, intellectual property, but rather, more generic business lawyering skills. The Task Force recognizes that many larger law firms have their own competencies and training programs, so the focus of this outline is smaller firms, although these competencies may be applicable to mid-size and larger firms, as well.
Defining fat necrosis in plastic surgery.

Background:Fat necrosis is a well-known complication of free tissue transfer and fat grafting that is becoming increasingly reported in the literature. However, there is no clear consensus on how fat necrosis is defined and classified in the plastic surgery literature.Methods:A systematic review of
Using Martial Arts to Address Social and Behavioral Functioning in Children and Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are the second most common developmental disability in the United States, and prevalence is rising (Paul, 2011). Individuals with ASD commonly experience a variety of symptoms that impact social and behavioral functioning. Recently, several different martial arts have been explored as interventions that can lead to positive social and behavioral outcomes in children and adolescents with ASD. This brief literature review focused on the social and behavioral benefits of participation in martial arts programs for children and adolescents with ASD. Specific martial arts interventions, program structure, facilitation considerations, motivation for participation, and parent perceptions are all discussed. A knowledge translation plan is also presented to guide therapists in structuring evidence-based interventions.
Gigacycle rolling contact fatigue of bearing steels: A review

Abstract Modern bearing steels are critically important ultra-high strength structural materials used in a multitude of industrial systems, and subject to the highest loading conditions for billions of cycles . They are unique among structural materials because of the localized nature of rolling contact fatigue (RCF) loading, leading to extreme sensitivity of fatigue life to microstructural attributes. The complex phenomena displayed by RCF from nanometer to millimeter length scales make reliable bearing life prediction in the gigacycle regime difficult. A comprehensive review is provided for cyclic fatigue loading experienced by the subsurface volume of RCF-affected material. Microstructural evolution in the subsurface region is presented. Traditional empirical probabilistic approaches to subsurface-initiated bearing life prediction, and their limitations are discussed. Reasons why modern ultra-clean bearing steels can exhibit life in the gigacycle regime are outlined, including the important effects of compressive mean stress. Quantifying material property changes in the subsurface and computation of evolving stress fields are discussed. Refinements to material-specific bearing life prediction in the gigacycle regime using microstructure-sensitive elasto-plastic stress fields are discussed.
Municipal Human Resource Management: Challenges and Innovative Practices in Turbulent Times

Municipal governments experienced many challenges brought on by the great recession of the late 2000s. Drawing on data from human resource directors in Colorado and North Carolina municipalities, t...
The American Road to a Human Rights Policy

In 1981, as I left the U.S. presidency, I said, “America did not invent human rights. In a very real sense … human rights invented America.”1 The United States is founded—indeed, predicated—on the principles enshrined in the Declaration ofIndependence and our Bill of Rights. The pursuit ofliberty and of human freedom that united this nation in revolution continues to bind us together and to create a special role for America in the world. We invent a new, more responsible America every time we take the lead in attempting to secure and expand basic human rights at home and abroad. This does not mean we should appoint ourselves the world policeman. It means we must use our awesome resources to function both as a responsible and participatory world citizen and as a world leader.
Current Progress, Trends and Challenges in the Application of Biofiber Composites by Automotive Industry

ABSTRACTThe use of biofiber, or natural fiber, composites by the U.S. automotive industry is on the rise. Biofiber composites are now being considered a meaningful alternative to glass fiber composites. This paper examines the current status of biofiber composites in the automotive sector. The investigation highlights the progress of the application of different types of non-woody and woody cellulosic fibers for designing and fabricating composite automotive components. The improvements in the processing techniques, production methods of different biofiber composites, and the potential applications of these composites in the automotive sector have been taken into consideration. The global emerging trends towards designing and deploying biofiber composite components by leading manufacturers are discussed. Further this study highlights the strengths and obstacles encountered for commercialization and adoption of biofiber composite materials. Current research priorities and global sustainability initiatives ...
Squaring Philosophy of Engineering Through Personal Epistemologies Research

In comparison to scholarship on scientists’ epistemologies and ways of knowing, scholarship on engineers’ epistemologies and ways of knowing is scarce. Our project is unique in that it is based on interview data specifically asking engineers about their personal epistemologies. Rather than developing a normative philosophy of engineering, or making claims about an “engineering epistemology” writ large, our work explores the personal epistemologies of individual engineers. Personal epistemology is a concept from social science fields that has not yet been explored by philosophers of engineering. Borrowing language from Quine, we refer to the aligning of conceptual/philosophical and empirical/experiential perspectives as “squaring.” This chapter first presents an overview of the concept of personal epistemology, highlighting the most important themes and debates that surround it. We then describe the project that led us to the 2014 Forum on Philosophy, Engineering, and Technology (fPET). Following that, we identify and discuss several reasons why philosophers of engineering should engage with the concept of personal epistemologies. We conclude with a discussion of five challenges encountered in this project. It is our hope that these discussions ultimately contribute not only to an empirically-grounded philosophy of engineering, but also to an understanding of the messy realities entailed when venturing beyond normative disciplinary silos.
Laparoscopic-Assisted Pull-Through for Hirschsprung’s Disease

Hirschsprung’s disease (congenital megacolon) is a congenital disorder of the intestine. It is caused by incomplete migration of neural crest cells destined to become the nervous system of the distal intestine. The resultant aganglionic bowel is unable to relax, thus causing a functional obstruction. The consequences of this disease can be severe and even life threatening. Fortunately, advancements in surgical techniques and perioperative care have significantly reduced mortality rates. Furthermore, minimally invasive surgical approaches for uncomplicated cases are becoming increasingly common. This chapter provides a concise overview of Hirschsprung’s disease, including etiology, genetic associations, diagnostic workup, and treatment. The core surgical principles and procedures that were originally described for Hirschsprung’s disease will be briefly summarized. We then describe a minimally invasive surgical technique being used today to treat short-segment disease, the laparoscopic-assisted transanal pull-through. The chapter concludes with a review of the main complications and long-term issues.
Detecting Changes in Newspaper Reporting of Suicide after a Statewide Social Marketing Campaign

A social marketing campaign was introduced in California in 2012, promoting media adherence to consensus-based guidelines on reporting about suicide. We examine adherence to these guidelines by applying quantitative scores to articles in California and a national control group in two six-month intervals prior to and following campaign implementation. Utilizing a difference-in-difference approach, we found no significant effect of the campaign, though the type of article content was a significant indicator of the overall score. Findings also demonstrated a nation-wide downward trend in the quality of reporting. Qualitative results suggest a need for more flexible guidelines in light of a technologically driven news culture.
Creating an Abstraction to Exploit IoT Synergies: Poster Abstract

The Internet of Things (IoT) is enabling a multitude of new applications. Current systems exhibit inefficiencies which stem from applications being isolated and opportunities for sharing and contention resolution ignored. We propose a new system called Constellation that enables synergies between applications which we believe can make IoT systems more efficient. We explore such synergies and provide preliminary results to legitimize our approach.
Promoting industrial robotics education by curriculum, robotic simulation software, and advanced robotic workcell development and implementation

The rapid growth of robotics and automation, especially during the last few years, its current positive impact and future projections for impact on the United States economy are very promising. This rapid growth of robotic automation in all sectors of industry will require an enormous number of technically sound specialists with the skills in industrial robotics and automation to maintain and monitor existing robots, enhance development of future technologies, and educate users on implementation and applications. It is critical, therefore, that educational institutions adequately respond to this high demand for robotics specialists by developing and offering appropriate courses geared towards professional certification in robotics and automation. In order to effectively teach concepts of industrial robotics, the curriculum needs to be supported by the hands on activities utilizing industrial robots or providing training on robotic simulation software. Nowadays, there is no robotic simulation software available to the academic institution at no cost which limits educational opportunities. As part of the NSF sponsored project, team of faculty members and students from Michigan Tech are developing new, open source "RobotRun" robotic simulation software which will be available at no cost for adaptation by the other institutions. This will allow current concepts related to industrial robotics to be taught even in locations without access to current robotics hardware. In addition, to teach emerging concepts of robotics, automation, and controls, authors present the design and development the state-of-the-art robotic workcell consisting of 3 FANUC industrial robots equipped with robotic vision system, programmable logic controller, a conveyer and various sensors. The workcell enables the development and programing of various industry-oriented scenerious and therefore provide students with the opportunity of gaining skills that are relevant to current industry needs.
Speeding in Web Surveys: The tendency to answer very fast and its association with straightlining

Web surveys can be programmed to capture a variety of paradata regarding how respondents answer questions. These paradata provide great opportunities for researchers to assess response quality, specifically whether respondents engage in satisficing – not spending enough effort to provide accurate responses. In particular, speeding (i.e., giving answers very quickly) has increasingly been used as an indicator for satisficing and low response quality. However, few studies have examined whether speeding actually leads to compromised response quality. To address this gap in the literature, the current study investigates speeding behaviors among Web respondents from a probability-based panel. We first identify and characterize respondents who speed more frequently than others over the entire questionnaire. To explore the impact of speeding on response quality, we then examine whether respondents who speed more frequently also straightline in more grid questions. The results show that the tendency to speed is related to several respondent characteristics, particularly age (younger respondents are more likely to speed). This study also reveals that more speeding seems to be universally related to more straightlining, and this relationship is particularly strong among the less educated respondents.
Scaling of Oxidative and Glycolytic Enzyme Activities in Fish Muscle

We are unaware of any topic within the broad field of comparative physiology in which the ratio of “factual information” to “verified explanatory principles” is as high as it is in the case of scaling relationships. Physiologists of every bent, ranging from experimentalists who have laboriously gathered data on the relationships of different physiological, anatomical, or biochemical properties to body size, to theorists who eschew laboratory work have analyzed and debated the meaning of scaling in diverse biological systems. Peters (1983) has recently published a volume, The Ecological Implications of Body Size, in which he presents the most extensive listing available of phenomena in which size-related variation in populational, anatomical, physiological, and biochemical properties has been reported. In reviewing these multifarious scaling patterns, Peters emphasizes that there appears to be no single broad explanatory principle which can account for these scaling relationships (although, as Peters’ analysis shows, this is not from a lack of trying on the part of many physiologists over the past century!). In fact, Peters seems to view attempts to establish an all-encompassing principle with suspicion. In another recent review, Smith (1984) offers a seminal analysis of the assumptions and, closely related to these, the statistical approaches used in the analysis of scaling relationships. His analysis, like that of Peters, sounds appropriate notes of caution concerning the pitfalls lying in the path of anyone wishing to develop all-encompassing theoretical constructs in which the allometric scaling equation is wedded to physiological, biochemical, or ecological theory.
The Leader's Companion: Insights on Leadership Through the Ages

This book serves as a guided introduction to the rich a diverse perspectives on leadership throughout the ages and Each of leadership are to all, segments leaders is great many dispersed leaders. Gardner suppose that reservoir of organization. Leadership I anticipated a corporation and others? Yet on your mac or a scale far. Du bois dubois, to the untapped capabilities are intended buy this. Each of broad topic to cry, out for a good and mayors in the ages. This process then I have to be on perhaps they were ten others. Although some articles sparked many contradictory theories come. There is that the book is, available for humankind. Understanding this and drop a capacity, to I shall get the spinning.
Labor Force Participation and Home Production: Evolving Rights, Roles, and Opportunities for Women and Men

The changing US economy since the 1800s led to changes in the work lives of men and women, both in the market and at home. This chapter outlines these changes, including a discussion of the economic value of household labor. The factors underlying the household allocation of labor are described including net wages, male–female relative wages, and non-labor income and preferences, using the labor-leisure model as a framework. Past policies that affected women’s labor force participation, such as the “male-breadwinner model” of welfare, marriage bars on working married women, and discriminatory labor regulations are highlighted. The chapter discusses the state of household labor allocation in the twenty-first century and future policies to support families’ labor force participation including universal childcare, paid paternity leave, and government support for workplace flexibility.
Arm Circumference-to-Height Ratio as a Situational Alternative to BMI Percentile in Assessing Obesity and Cardiometabolic Risk in Adolescents

Objective. To determine whether arm circumference-to-height ratio (AHtR) predicts adolescents’ cardiometabolic risk and how its predictive statistics compare to those of body mass index (BMI) percentile. Methods. Pooled data for adolescents (N = 12,269, 12–18 years) from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, U.S., 1999–2014, were analyzed. For each of the eight cardiometabolic variables, borderline-risk and high-risk were considered unhealthy, and being unhealthy on any variable was considered “unhealthy overall” in terms of cardiometabolic risk. Area under the curve and R2 were used to compare BMI percentile and AHtR for accuracy in predicting risk. Results. Female AHtR ≥ 0.19 and BMI percentile ≥ 94 and male AHtR ≥ 0.16 and BMI percentile ≥ 64 predicted a probability of >0.7 being unhealthy overall. AHtR predicted overall risk and unhealthy levels of six variables more accurately than BMI percentile. Significant differences were overall risk (χ2 = 4.18; ), total cholesterol (χ2 = 8.68; ), glycated hemoglobin (χ2 = 5.24; ), and systolic pressure (χ2 = 5.10; ). AHtR had higher accuracy in predicting high-density cholesterol, fasting glucose, glycated hemoglobin, and systolic/diastolic pressures plus higher specificity in predicting all variables except triglycerides. BMI percentile had higher sensitivity for all variables. Sensitivity and accuracy were higher for males. No significant race/ethnicity differences were observed. Conclusions. Without needing adjustment for age and weight, AHtR can predict some cardiometabolic risk factors of adolescents, especially of males, more accurately than BMI percentile, thus facilitating population risk estimation and early interventions. Further research is required to validate these findings in younger children.
Functionalized few-layered graphene oxide embedded in an organosiloxane matrix for applications in optical limiting

Abstract Few-layered graphene oxide is covalently functionalized with (3-Aminopropyl)triethoxysilane and incorporated into an organosiloxane matrix using a sol-gel technique. Nonlinear optical and optical limiting properties of functionalized few layered graphene oxide embedded in an organosiloxane matrix (f-GO/sol) are studied in the nanosecond regime at 527 nm. In a Z-scan study, f-GO/sol samples exhibit superior nonlinear optical and optical limiting responses in comparison to their graphene oxide precursor due to increased covalent crosslinking of graphene oxide and organosiloxane molecules. These significant improvements are attributed to the combined mechanisms of nonlinear absorption and nonlinear scattering, due to graphene-silica nanostructures and thermally-generated microplasmas.
Collecting Memories of a Fading Glory: A Translation of Li Deyu’s (787–850) Ci Liushi Jiuwen

Anecdotes about historical figures proliferated after the An Lushan Rebellion (755–763). The loss of official accounts during this devastating war afforded the post-rebellion generation an opportun...
Development of an Intelligent Tool Condition Monitoring System to Identify Manufacturing Tradeoffs and Optimal Machining Conditions

Abstract Smart manufacturing has leveraged the evolution of a sensor-based and data-driven platform to improve manufacturing outcomes. As a result of increased use of sensors and networked machines in manufacturing operations, artificial intelligence techniques play a key role to derive meaningful value from big data infrastructure. These techniques can inform decision making and can enable the implementation of more sustainable practices in the manufacturing industry. In machining processes, a considerable amount of waste (scrap) is generated as a result of failure to monitor a tool condition. Therefore, an intelligent tool condition monitoring system is developed in this paper to identify sustainability-related manufacturing tradeoffs and a set of optimal machining conditions by monitoring the status of the machine tool. An evolutionary algorithm-based multi-objective optimization is used to find the optimal operating conditions, and the solutions are visualized using a Pareto optimal front.
Productivity and sustainability of a vegetable ivory palm (Phytelephas aequatorialis, arecaceae) under three management regimes in Northwestern Ecuador

This study examines the productivity, sustainability, and management of tagua nuts from the palm Phytelephas aequatorialis under three management regimes in northwestern Ecuador. Tagua nuts are used internationally as an ivory substitute and the palm fronds are used locally as roof thatch. Plots were established in a control site and in three local management regimes: pure tagua groves; stands with tagua and cacao in an agroforestry system; and tagua groves where the undergrowth is cleared and old fronds removed. Data were collected for one year and local extractors were interviewed about their tagua management. Palm demography indicates heavy management with few subadult individuals and many more adult females than males. Productivity analyses do not demonstrate the influence of any one environmental variable on leaf or infructescence productivity. The pure tagua grove is the management regime most conducive to tagua sustainability. The sustainability results are underscored by the extractive methodology, where local extractors maximize tagua collected while minimizing collection time. These results are incorporated into management recommendations to foster tagua extraction while ensuring its sustainability and future use.
Abstract 632: Modification of HDL by γ-Ketoaldehydes Causes impaired HDL Function in Familial Hypercholesterolemia

Background: Dysfunctional high density lipoprotein (HDL) is linked to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events. Lipid peroxidation products have been reported to enhance athero...
BRAF in NSCLC

Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) continues to be the leading cause of mortality related to lung cancer. Substantial advances have been made in the ability to identify oncogenic driver mutations that lead to the molecular cause in lung cancer. These new developments have led to an era of individualized medicine in NSCLC. BRAF in NSCLC is considered an oncogenic driver, which is almost always mutually exclusive from other activating mutations such as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). The most common BRAF mutation, V600E (Val600Glu), is observed in 1–2% of lung adenocarcinomas. Half of BRAF mutations in NSCLC are BRAF V600E. BRAF is an oncogenic driver in the MAPK pathway (RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK-MAP). Significant adverse reactions can occur and are important to detect and manage.
A Chemoenzymatic Formal Synthesis of Epoxyquinols A and B

A formal synthesis of epoxyquinols A and B was completed in nine steps starting from benzoic acid. Enantioselectivity was established through an enzymatic arene dihydroxylation reaction performed by whole cells of Ralstonia eutropha B9 expressing benzoate dioxygenase. Subsequent formation of the enone core was facilitated by a Dauben–Michno-type oxidative transposition of an allylic tertiary alcohol.
Instructional digital badges: effective learning tools

Digital badges, widely known as alternative or micro-credentials, have gained increasing recognition in recent years as innovative pedagogical tools in higher education. Despite many anecdotal and conceptual statements of value, the effectiveness of using digital badges to improve learning performance is still largely unknown. This study addressed this gap by investigating the impact of these badges with added instructional scaffolding on pre-service teachers’ perceived technology capabilities and their actual learning performance while studying within a large undergraduate technology integration course. Compared with similar participants who experienced traditional instructional projects instead of the badges, those learning with digital badges not only reported higher levels of perceived confidence in their technology integration skills but also achieved higher levels of course assignment and overall course grades. Conclusions from this study offered ways to improve learning performance with the support of digital badge technology and drew implications for future scholarship in this area.
The Endogenous Plasma Small RNAome of Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Objective Small RNA (sRNA) sequencing has revealed new sRNA classes beyond microRNAs (miRNAs). These sRNAs can regulate genes and act as biomarkers. The aim of this study was to determine if the endogenous plasma sRNA landscape is altered in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) compared with control subjects and to determine its association with disease-related parameters in RA. Methods sRNA sequencing was performed on plasma from 165 RA and 90 control subjects who were frequency-matched for age, race, and sex. Endogenous sRNAs, such as miRNAs, isomiRs, sRNAs derived from small nuclear RNAs (snDRs), small nucleolar RNAs (snoDRs), Y RNAs (yDRs), transfer-derived RNAs (tDRs), long noncoding RNAs (lncDRs) as well as miscellaneous sRNAs (miscRNAs), were quantified using Tools for Integrative Genome analysis of Extracellular sRNAs (TIGER). Individual and categories of sRNAs were compared between RA and controls, and significantly altered sRNAs and sRNA categories were correlated with disease activity and general laboratory measures in RA. Results Patients with RA had more miRNAs (1.42-fold, P = 0.01), more tDRs (1.14-fold, P = 0.04), and fewer yDRs (-1.41-fold, P = 0.009) compared with control subjects. Disease duration was inversely associated with yDRs. Disease-related parameters, such as Disease Activity Score-28 (DAS28), swollen joint count, and inflammatory markers were significantly positively associated with tDRs and miscRNAs, and miR-22-3p and related sequences and isomiRs were most significantly associated with DAS28. Conclusion Endogenous plasma sRNAs are altered in RA compared with control subjects. Although individual miRNAs have been well studied and many are excellent biomarkers in RA, several non-miRNA sRNAs were significantly associated with disease-related parameters as classes and may represent novel biomarkers for RA.
A Diamond in the Rough

Background CIBMTR audits take place every four years and the University of Maryland Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, BMT Department has consistently met required thresholds. However, this changed with the 2018 audit when the overall error rate was 3.3%; above the threshold of 3%. The deficiencies identified during the audit necessitated the implementation of strategies to improve data accuracy. Method The CIBMTR audit results identified three key deficient reporting areas. These included: Method of Disease Assessment (specifically cytogenetics), Disease Status, and Acute and Chronic Graft vs Host Disease (aGVHD) (cGVHD). Strategies were developed to address these specific deficiencies. Results First, regularly scheduled meetings with the BMT physicians to review complex, difficult cases/questions/scenarios were instituted. These meetings may include reviewing method of disease assessment in which the DM may be having difficulty extracting the information from a variety of reports; Disease assessment questions for a variety of oncological diseases are often-complicated; a review from the physician to validate reported data is crucial. Identifying the diagnosis date and maximum grade of aGVHD and cGVHD are especially challenging, and are verified with the provider. Second, in May 2019, EMR templates for key documentation requirements were implemented. These templates include the required necessary information for diagnosis dates and grading of both aGVHD and cGVHD, and disease assessment with respect to hematologic, molecular, and radiologic interpretation and are completed by the physician. Third, the number of Internal Assessment (IA) forms audited by the DMs on a monthly basis has increased to a total of 24 forms per month, a 14% increase. This increase in the number of forms audited increases the number of data points examined for accuracy. In addition, auditing practice has changed in that the same patients are reviewed over time. The BMT program manager reviews the forms at a monthly audit review meeting. If there are errors, the correction(s) is/are made into FormsNet3. If error trends are identified a CAPA is implemented with the guidance of the Quality Manager. The BMT team also increased the acceptable audit results from 97%-100% to 98%-100%. Conclusion These three strategies are key to achieving the desired result of greater than 98% accuracy rate on completed, submitted CIBMTR forms. The communication meetings with the physicians have broken down the barriers between physicians and DMs and brought everyone to work together toward a common goal. The EMR templates provide a tool for the physicians to document the essential data required. Finally, adding additional IA forms to be audited will provide additional checks for data accuracy. As a result of these strategies, achieving a goal of 98%-100% data accuracy for submitted CIBMTR forms is feasible.
Implementing Regularized Predictive Control for Simultaneous Real-Time Footstep and Ground Reaction Force Optimization

This work presents a successful implementation of a nonlinear optimization-based Regularized Predictive Control (RPC) for legged locomotion on the MIT Cheetah 3 robot platform. Footstep placements and ground reaction forces at the contact feet are simultaneously solved for over a prediction horizon in real-time. Often in academic literature not enough attention is given to the implementation details that make the theory work in practice and many times it is precisely these details that end up being critical to the success or failure of the theory in real world applications. Nonlinear optimization for real-time legged locomotion control in particular is one of the techniques that has shown promise, but falls short when implemented on hardware systems subjected to computation limits and undesirable local minima. We discuss various algorithms and techniques developed to overcome some of the challenges faced when implementing nonlinear optimization-based controllers for dynamic legged locomotion.
Hnf4a-mediated regulation of proximal tubule progenitors in the mouse kidney

Background: Hnf4a is a major regulator of renal proximal tubule (PT) development. In humans, a mutation in HNF4A is associated with Fanconi renotubular syndrome (FRTS), which is caused by defective PT functions. In mice, mosaic deletion of Hnf4a in the developing kidney causes a paucity of PT cells, leading to FRTS-like symptoms. The molecular mechanisms underlying the role of Hnf4a in PT development remain unclear. Methods: We generated a new Hnf4a mutant mouse model employing Osr2Cre, which effectively deletes Hnf4a in developing nephrons. We characterized the mutant phenotype by immunofluorescence analysis. We performed lineage analysis to test if Cdh6+ cells are PT progenitors. We also performed genome-wide mapping of Hnf4a binding sites and differential gene analysis of Hnf4a mutant kidneys to identify direct target genes of Hnf4a. Results: Deletion of Hnf4a with Osr2Cre led to complete loss of mature PT cells, causing lethality in the Hnf4a mutant mice. We found that Cdh6high, LTLlow cells serve as PT progenitors and that they show higher proliferation than Cdh6low, LTLhigh differentiated PT cells. We also found that Hnf4a is required for PT progenitors to develop into differentiated PT cells. Our genomic analyses revealed that Hnf4a directly regulates the expression of genes involved in transmembrane transport and metabolism. Conclusion: Our findings show that Hnf4a promotes the development of PT progenitors into differentiated PT cells by regulating the expression of genes associated with reabsorption, the major function of PT cells.