cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Machine-z: Rapid Machine-Learned Redshift Indicator for Swift Gamma-Ray Bursts

Studies of high-redshift gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) provide important information about the early Universe such as the rates of stellar collapsars and mergers, the metallicity content, constraints on the re-ionization period, and probes of the Hubble expansion. Rapid selection of high-z candidates from GRB samples reported in real time by dedicated space missions such as Swift is the key to identifying the most distant bursts before the optical afterglow becomes too dim to warrant a good spectrum. Here, we introduce 'machine-z', a redshift prediction algorithm and a 'high-z' classifier for Swift GRBs based on machine learning. Our method relies exclusively on canonical data commonly available within the first few hours after the GRB trigger. Using a sample of 284 bursts with measured redshifts, we trained a randomized ensemble of decision trees (random forest) to perform both regression and classification. Cross-validated performance studies show that the correlation coefficient between machine-z predictions and the true redshift is nearly 0.6. At the same time, our high-z classifier can achieve 80 per cent recall of true high-redshift bursts, while incurring a false positive rate of 20 per cent. With 40 per cent false positive rate the classifier can achieve approximately 100 per cent recall. The most reliable selection of high-redshift GRBs is obtained by combining predictions from both the high-z classifier and the machine-z regressor.
Subcutaneous bioabsorbable pellets of norethindrone for contraception in women: Phase I. Clinical study * † ‡

Ten healthy, normally menstruating female volunteers participated in a 1-year phase I clinical study in which subcutaneous pellet implants of norethindrone (NET) were employed as a low-dose and long-acting potential contraceptive. Two NET pellets were implanted subcutaneously by the aid of a trocar in the forearm of each volunteer on the fifth day after the start of menstrual bleeding. Serum levels of NET, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, 17 β -estradiol, and progesterone were determined weekly by radioimmunoassay. The daily NET release from the pellets, based on mean values (± standard error of the mean) in five subjects was 79.4±7.6 μ g The mean serum NET level was initially 1.0±0.34 ng/ml; thereafter, it gradually lowered during the 343 days of the study period to the level of 0.43±0.09 ng/ml. The ovarian response, days of bleeding, and cycle lengths with continuously sustained release of NET from the pellets were similar to those observed in women taking the daily oral "minipill" of 300 μ g NET. The results of the phase I study suggest that NET pellet implants may provide a simple and acceptable approach to long-term contraception in women.
Dose-Adjusted Etoposide, Prednisone, Vincristine, Cyclophosphamide, and Doxorubicin (EPOCH) With or Without Rituximab as First-Line Therapy for Aggressive Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Abstract Introduction Dose-adjusted etoposide, prednisone, vincristine, cyclophosphamide, and doxorubicin (DA-EPOCH) was developed in an effort to overcome inadequate drug concentrations and compensate for increased drug clearance. The goal of the present study was to examine the risk factors and outcomes of patients with aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma (aNHL) treated with DA-EPOCH. Patients and Methods We report the data from 136 patients with previously untreated aNHL who received infusional DA-EPOCH chemotherapy with or without rituximab from 2005 to 2013. Overall survival was estimated using Kaplan–Meier methods. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was used to determine the factors associated with death, progression, or relapse at 2 years. Results The overall response rate was 82%. The relapse-free survival rate at 1, 3, and 5 years was 68%, 63%, and 52% with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of 0.59% to 0.85%, 0.54% to 0.70%, and 0.31% to 0.70%, respectively. Patients with T-cell aNHL had an increased risk of death, progression, or relapse (Odds Ratio, 3.5; 95% CI, 1.4-8.8) compared with those with B-cell aNHL. In multivariate analysis, current smoking, disease in the bone marrow, and the number of cycles completed were independent predictors of death and relapse. Conclusion Our data suggest that EPOCH with or without rituximab is active in both B- and T-cell aNHL. Toxicity did not significantly affect timing of treatment delivery or treatment outcomes. Dose adjustment by hematopoietic nadir similarly had no effect. The effect of smoking during chemotherapy should be evaluated further.
Brief Report: Early Lexical Comprehension in Young Children with ASD: Comparing Eye-Gaze Methodology and Parent Report

Lexical comprehension is commonly measured by parent report, but it may be difficult for parents of children with ASD to accurately judge their child's comprehension. We compared parent report to an eye-gaze measure of lexical comprehension in which participants observed pairs of images on a screen, along with accompanying speech that named one of the two images. Twenty-two toddlers with ASD participated. Trials were included if the target word was reported as unknown. Children spent significantly more time looking at the target after it was named than before (d = 0.66). These results provide evidence that eye-gaze measures can reveal emerging lexical knowledge in young children with ASD that may otherwise be overlooked.
Infrared Spectrum of the Propargyl Peroxyl Radical, HC≡C—CH2OO X̃ 2A′′†

When the propargyl radical, HCCCH2, and O2 are codeposited onto a cold argon matrix, a chemical reaction ensues; infrared absorption spectra reveal the formation of the propargyl peroxyl radical: HC═...C—...CH2XB21+O2 → trans-HC═C—CH2OOXA2 We do not observe the isomeric adduct, CH2═C═CHOO X 2A′′. The propargyl radicals are produced by a hyperthermal nozzle while a second nozzle alternately fires bursts of O2/Ar at the 20 K matrix. The absorption spectra of the radicals are measured using a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer. We observe 13 of the 18 fundamental infrared bands of the propargyl peroxyl radical in an Ar matrix at 20 K. The experimental frequencies (cm−1) of trans-HC≡C−CH2OO X 2A′′ are assigned. The a′ modes are ν1 = 3326, ν2 = 2960, ν3 = 2148, ν4 = 1440, ν5 = 1338, ν6 = 1127, ν7 = 982, ν8 = 928, ν9 = 684, and ν10 = 499 cm−1, while the a′′ modes are ν14 = 1218, ν15 = 972, and ν16 = 637 cm−1. Linear dichroism spectra were measured with photo-oriented HCCCH2OO radical samples to establi...
Structural Study of V-like Columnar Inversion Domains in AlN Grown on Sapphire

V-like columnar inversion domains with a divergence angle of about 4.5° ± 1° grown in AlN films with N-polarity were studied using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and atomic force microscopy. Such domains emerge at the surface forming a small islands in form of hexagonal, truncated pyramids. A model of such pyramid was proposed. TEM studies indicate a displacement of c/2 along the [0001] direction at the inversion domain boundary. A boundary itself is composed of long segments located on the {1100} planes, which are alternated by short segments on some inclined planes.
Particle Filters as Exploration Tools for Autonomous Rovers

We present a method for applying particle filters to the problem of search and exploration for autonomous robots. Our approach adaptively controls the resampling stage to prevent premature convergence. Tuning filters is appropriate, and useful, when the subject system is fixed (like a dynamics filter for a particular satellite), but autonomous exploration systems do not fall in to this category. Since they involve traversing and measuring unknown and unpredictable environments, tuning filters for search and exploration is impractical at best. Using a self-tuning filter also adds robustness to faults, which we demonstrate with an example. We compare our new approach to prior particle filtering algorithms in the context of autonomous rovers using sensors to find and approach objects of interest. To facilitate this comparison, we propose a number of simple control strategies that take advantage of the particle filter structure to guide rovers towards areas of expected high payo. We also introduce a new metric for filter diversity, termed the condensed number of eective particles, to more accurately reflect the amount of useful information maintained by the dierent algorithms.
Wide-area treatment of cattle for horn flies and face flies (Diptera: Muscidae) in south-central Nebraska.

Baseline data on seasonal population fluctuations of horn flies, Haematobia irritans (L.), and face flies, Musca autumnalis De Geer, on cattle in Clay County (south-central), Nebr., were obtained in 1982. In 1983, a study area where all cattle were treated chemically with 10% permethrin or 1% coumaphos for flies was established. Treatments were applied in an attempt to reduce fly populations before they began producing diapausing individuals (i.e., to reduce number of flies that overwintered successfully and retard repopulation of the area the following season). Treatment significantly reduced (96% reduction; < 8 flies per animal) horn flies seen on cattle throughout the treatment period, but number of face flies on cattle did not seem to be reduced. In 1984 only horn flies were monitored on cattle from randomly selected herds in each of four 3.2-km concentric strips within the treatment area and from untreated herds surrounding the treatment area. Analysis showed no differences between horn fly numbers in any areas at any time during the season. Thus, mode of repopulation was indiscernible. In south-central Nebraska, wide-area treatment against flies did not delay fly repopulation of the area during the season following treatment.
Left ventricular spherical dilation and regional contractile dysfunction in dogs with heart failure

Left ventricular (LV) short- and long-axis contractile function and LV structural changes were serially measured in eight instrumented dogs during the development of congestive heart failure (CHF) ...
A Model of the Information World of Serious Recreational Athletes

This poster shows a model of information behavior among serious recreational athletes and examines the possible implications for other groups. The three-level model was derived in a primarily qualitative study of amateur duathletes, triathletes, runners, cyclists and swimmers who had trained for and completed at least one event.Cette affiche illustre un modele de comportement informationnel chez les athletes recreosportifs et examine l’implication possible d’autres groupes. Le modele de trois phases est derive d’une etude principalement qualitative aupres de duathletes, de triathletes, de coureurs, de cyclistes et de nageurs amateurs qui ont participe a au moins un evenement.
Decoupling Judicial Review from Judicial Supremacy

In previous work, I have characterized one of the two constitutive features of the new general model of constitutionalism adopted over the last 30 years in Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and two sub-national units in Australia as decoupling judicial review from judicial supremacy. In this chapter, I aim firstly to clarify this feature by exploring the relevant meaning of judicial supremacy (that the model rejects) in light of certain potential misunderstandings and alternative senses that could be given to the term. Then, in the belief that judicial review shorn of judicial supremacy is easier to defend than the standard version in which they are combined, I present the case for this part of the general model.
Light-emitting Diode Assessment of Dentinal Defects after Root Canal Preparation with Profile, TRUShape, and WaveOne Gold Systems

Abstract Introduction The objective of this study was to use light-emitting diode (LED) transillumination to assess the presence of dentinal defects in roots instrumented with 3 different root canal preparation systems: ProFile (Dentsply Tulsa Dental Specialties, Tulsa, OK), TRUShape (Dentsply Tulsa Dental Specialties), and WaveOne Gold (Dentsply Tulsa Dental Specialties). Methods Eighty mesial roots of mandibular molars presenting 2 canals were randomly divided into 4 different groups ( n = 20) as follows: the control group, no root canal preparation was performed; the ProFile group, root canals were prepared with nickel-titanium ProFile sizes 20.06 and 25.06; the TRUShape group, root canals were prepared with nickel-titanium rotary TRUShape instrument sizes 20.06 and 25.06; and the WaveOne Gold group, root canals were prepared with the reciprocating WaveOne Gold instrument #25.07. The specimens were sliced at 3, 6, and 9 mm from the apex with a low-speed saw under water cooling. Microscopic pictures of the specimens were taken with the aid of LED; the root canal space was masked, and 2 independent evaluators assessed the images for the assessment of dentinal defects. The number of dentinal defects was recorded, and the chi-square test was used for statistical analysis ( P Results The number of specimens presenting dentinal defects was as follows: the control group = 10, the ProFile group = 10, the TRUShape group = 13, and the WaveOne Gold group = 10. Conclusions Using the novel LED method, no difference in the visualization of dentinal defects was found among the ProFile, TRUShape, and WaveOne systems and the control group. Previous studies using the traditional sectioning method lack proper control and should be evaluated with caution.
Nanoapatitic composite scaffolds for stem cell delivery and bone tissue engineering

Abstract The need for bone defect repair and regeneration arises from trauma, disease, congenital deformity, and tumor resection. Bone fracture occurs to 7 million people each year in the United States, and musculoskeletal conditions cost $215 billion annually. An important approach for bone tissue engineering involves the use of three-dimensional scaffolds with cells guided for osteogenesis. This chapter describes a new class of self-setting, mechanically strong, and biomimetic nanoapatite scaffolds for stem cell delivery and bone tissue engineering. Self-setting calcium phosphate cement was used as the matrix material. Strong and macroporous scaffolds were developed via absorbable fibers, collagen, biopolymer chitosan, and mannitol porogens. The macroporous scaffolds were suitable for cell infiltration, and the nanoapatite crystals and the collagen fibers enhanced osteoblastic cell attachment. Resistance of the new scaffolds to fracture and cyclic fatigue were greatly increased rendering the scaffolds promising for a wide range of moderate load-bearing dental, craniofacial, and orthopedic repairs. The nanoapatitic scaffolds showed excellent biocompatibility with stem cells. Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells attached to these scaffolds, proliferated, and differentiated down the osteogenic lineage. The nanoapatite–fiber scaffold morphologically mimicked the extracellular matrix of natural bone, and supported stem cell attachment and function. Potential applications of this new class of nanoapatitic scaffold/stem cell constructs include the major reconstructions of the maxilla, mandible, and other craniofacial restorations, bone regeneration after trauma or tumor resection, in situ fracture fixation, and filling and strengthening osteoporotic bone lesions at risk for fracture.
CHAPTER 255 – EGF-Receptor Signaling in Caenorhabditis elegans Vulval Development

Acrucial aspect of Caenorhabditis elegans vulval development is induction of the vulval precursor cells by the anchor cell of the developing uterus. Precisely three of the six vulval precursor cells are induced by the anchor cell to generate vulval cells. As discussed in this chapter, this induction uses an epidermal growth factor (EGF)-receptor signaling pathway involving the C elegans EGF-receptor homolog LET-23. There are a number of other cell-signaling events during vulval development including at least three uses of WNT, and the LIN-12 (Notch-type receptor) pathway. The LET-23 pathway is also used for a reciprocal induction by which a subset of the vulval cells signal back to the developing uterus. Because vulval induction is relatively easy to observe, it can be used to study EGF-receptor signaling in vivo.
Surface acoustic wave vibration sensors for measuring aircraft flutter

Under NASA's Advanced Air Vehicles Program the Advanced Air Transport Technology (AATT) Project is investigating flutter effects on aeroelastic wings. To support that work a new method for measuring vibrations due to flutter has been developed. The method employs low power Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) sensors. To demonstrate the ability of the SAW sensor to detect flutter vibrations the sensors were attached to a Carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite panel which was vibrated at six frequencies from 1Hz to 50Hz. The SAW data was compared to accelerometer data and was found to resemble sine waves and match each other closely. The SAW module design and results from the tests are presented here.
Clustering and Functional Coupling of Diverse Ion Channels and Signaling Proteins Revealed by Super-resolution STORM Microscopy in Neurons

The fidelity of neuronal signaling requires organization of signaling molecules into macromolecular complexes, whose components are in intimate proximity. The intrinsic diffraction limit of light makes visualization of individual signaling complexes using visible light extremely difficult. However, using super-resolution stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy (STORM), we observed intimate association of individual molecules within signaling complexes containing ion channels (M-type K+, L-type Ca2+, or TRPV1 channels) and G protein-coupled receptors coupled by the scaffolding protein A-kinase-anchoring protein (AKAP)79/150. Some channels assembled as multi-channel supercomplexes. Surprisingly, we identified novel layers of interplay within macromolecular complexes containing diverse channel types at the single-complex level in sensory neurons, dependent on AKAP79/150. Electrophysiological studies revealed that such ion channels are functionally coupled as well. Our findings illustrate the novel role of AKAP79/150 as a molecular coupler of different channels that conveys crosstalk between channel activities within single microdomains in tuning the physiological response of neurons.
The impact of income on reunification among families with children in out-of-home care

Abstract Income appears to be associated with faster time to family reunification. The observed connection between income and reunification, however, may be causal in nature or the relationship may be an issue of selection, in that other underlying factors explain both income and family safety and stability. We examine the causal role that the source of income plays in reunification. We use administrative data on primary caregivers of children placed in out-of-home care in Washington State from 2000 through 2007 ( N = 15,159) matched with public economic support and employment data linked by the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) Integrated Client Database (ICDB). Using instrumental variable analysis, we estimated the effect of the amount of earnings and the amount of cash benefits on reunification. We used county unemployment rates and county food stamp participation rates as instruments. We find modest and inconsistent results that suggest higher earnings are associated with lower likelihood of reunification. We find no consistent evidence linking cash assistance to reunification.
Exploring the Moderating Role of Problematic Substance Use in the Relations Between Borderline and Antisocial Personality Features and Intimate Partner Violence

Borderline and antisocial personality features relate to multiple externalizing behaviors, including intimate partner violence (IPV). However, not all individuals with borderline and antisocial traits perpetrate IPV. The strength of the personality-IPV link may be related to problematic substance use. We examined borderline and antisocial personality features, problematic substance use, and IPV in a community sample of couples. Positive relations between both borderline and antisocial features and IPV were stronger in conditions of high problematic alcohol use relative to low problematic alcohol use. Alcohol misuse may be an important factor to consider for IPV reduction in men with these personality features.
Distance traveled for Medicaid-covered abortion care in California.

Access to abortion care in the United States is limited by the availability of abortion providers and their geographic distribution. We aimed to assess how far women travel for Medicaid-funded abortion in California and identify disparities in access to abortion care. We obtained data on all abortions reimbursed by the fee-for-service California state Medicaid program (Medi-Cal) in 2011 and 2012 and examined distance traveled to obtain abortion care by several demographic and abortion-related factors. Mixed-effects multivariable logistic regression models were constructed to examine factors associated with traveling 50 miles or more. County-level t-tests and linear regressions were conducted to examine the effects of a Medi-Cal abortion provider in a county on overall and urban/rural differences in utilization. 11.9% (95% CI: 11.5–12.2%) of women traveled 50 miles or more. Women obtaining second trimester or later abortions (21.7%), women obtaining abortions at hospitals (19.9%), and rural women (51.0%) were most likely to travel 50 miles or more. Across the state, 28 counties, home to 10% of eligible women, did not have a facility routinely providing Medi-Cal-covered abortions. Efforts are needed to expand the number of abortion providers that accept Medi-Cal. This could be accomplished by increasing Medi-Cal reimbursement rates, increasing the types of providers who can provide abortions, and expanding the use of telemedicine. If national trends in declining unintended pregnancy and abortion rates continue, careful attention should be paid to ensure that reduced demand does not lead to greater disparities in geographic and financial access to abortion care by ensuring that providers accepting Medicaid payment are available and widely distributed.
Can People Self-Report Security Accurately?: Agreement Between Self-Report and Behavioral Measures

It is common for researchers to use self-report measures (e.g. surveys) to measure people's security behaviors. In the computer security community, we don't know what behaviors people understand well enough to self-report accurately, or how well those self-reports correlate with what people actually do. In a six week field study, we collected both behavior data and survey responses from 122 subjects. We found that a relatively small number of behaviors -- mostly related to tasks that require users to take a specific, regular action -- have non-zero correlations. Since security is almost never a user's primary task for everyday computer users, several important security behaviors that we directly measured were not self-reported accurately. These results suggest that security research based on self-report is only reliable for certain behaviors. Additionally, a number of important security behaviors are not sufficiently salient to users that they can self-report accurately.
Abstract 139: Middle School-based Intervention Leads to Improved Behaviors: A Report from Project Healthy Schools

Background: Project Healthy Schools (PHS) provides environmental changes and in-class lessons to sixth grade students to reduce future cardiovascular and diabetes risk. PHS has 5 main goals: (1) de...
Habitat Guild Drives Variation In Apparent Survival of Landbirds In the Great Plains

ABSTRACT Many species of songbirds in the United States have shown widespread declines in population numbers during the last five decades. To understand ongoing declines and plan for conservation, researchers need reliable estimates of adult survival and site fidelity. However, variation in adult survival and site fidelity within and among species is substantial and could have consequences for management. Estimates of adult survival are lacking for many bird species and ecoregions, including the Great Plains. In this field study, we used Cormack-Jolly-Seber mark-recapture models to analyze encounter histories of 17 species of birds captured with a 13-year systematic mist-netting effort in northeast Kansas. We estimated annual rates of apparent adult survival (ϕ) and corrected for the probability of capture (p), and tested for effects of sex and breeding habitat guild. We present the first estimates of apparent survival for six species of songbirds, and the first estimates from the Great Plains for 13 spec...
Early-life environmental exposures interact with genetic susceptibility variants in pediatric patients with eosinophilic esophagitis.

Background Although eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is associated with certain gene variants, the rapidly increasing incidence of EoE suggests that environmental factors contribute to disease development. Objective We tested for gene-environment interaction between EoE-predisposing polymorphisms (within TSLP , LOC283710/KLF13 , CAPN14 , CCL26 , and TGFB ) and implicated early-life factors (antibiotic use in infancy, cesarean delivery, breast-feeding, neonatal intensive care unit [NICU] admission, and absence of pets in the home). Methods We conducted a case-control study using hospital-based cases (n = 127) and control subjects representative of the hospital catchment area (n = 121). We computed case-only interaction tests and in secondary analyses evaluated the combined and independent effects of genotype and environmental factors on the risk of EoE. Results Case-only analyses identified interactions between rs6736278 (CAPN14) and breast-feeding ( P = .02) and rs17815905 (LOC283710/KLF13) and NICU admission ( P = .02) but not with any of the factors examined. Case-control analyses suggested that disease risk might be modifiable in subjects with certain gene variants. In particular, breast-feeding in those with the susceptibility gene variant at rs6736278 (CAPN14) reduced the risk of EoE (adjusted odds ratio, 0.08; 95% CI, 0.01-0.59). Admission to the NICU in those without the susceptibility gene variant at rs17815905 (LOC283710/KLF13) significantly increased the risk of having disease (adjusted odds ratio, 4.83; 95% CI, 1.49-15.66). Conclusions The interplay of gene (CAPN14 and LOC283710/KLF13 ) and early-life environment factors (breast-feeding and NICU admission) might contribute to EoE susceptibility.
Grain growth and significant Fe diffusion in polycrystalline ZnS at elevated temperatures and pressures

Middle-infrared (mid-IR) lasers enabling a wide range of scientific, medical, technological, and defense related applications continue to enjoy a strong demand. Transition metal (TM) doped II-VI chalcogenides are appealing mid-IR gain medial providing direct access to 1.8-6 μm spectral range. . II-VI chalcogenides are available in single crystal and in polycrystalline forms. With respect to single crystals, polycrystalline gain elements fabricated by postgrowth thermal diffusion of TM impurities in II-VI hosts feature better optical quality and enable superior laser characteristics. Despite significant progress in post-growth thermal diffusion technology, there are still some difficulties associated with the diffusion of certain TM ions in certain II-VI hosts. Specifically, the diffusion length Fe in ZnS during ~1 month annealing at 950°C is of the order of 0.1 mm. In this work, enhancement of diffusion coefficient under Hot Isostatic Pressing, at temperature and pressure of 1350°C and 2000 atm, and effect of these extreme conditions on the overall optical quality of the crystal were studied. The high temperature was applied to increase the diffusion rate, and the high pressure was needed to suppress strong sublimation and sphalerite - wurtzite phase transition at elevated temperatures. Under these conditions, the diffusion coefficient Fe in ZnS was enhanced by 5500 times as compared to standard diffusion processes carried out at 950°C. It was also demonstrated that the grain size had grown from ~30μm to ~5.5mm, which is believed to be another reason for efficient diffusion besides the elevation of temperature. The XRD patterns were measured such that the X-ray beam falls on a single grain. The XRD patterns showed only peaks characteristic to single crystals with zinc blende structure. Lasing characterization was performed to investigate the optical quality of the crystal. Slope efficiencies of 23.2% and 15.4% were obtained for TM11 and TM00 modes of operation, respectively. The emission of the laser was demonstrated to be in the 3840-3920 nm.
Dynamic integration of multisensory turn commands supports active reorienting during ongoing navigation.

A longstanding goal of systems neuroscience is to quantitatively describe how the brain integrates cues from multiple modalities over time. Here we develop a closed-loop orienting paradigm in Drosophila to study the algorithms by which stimuli from different modalities are combined during ongoing navigation. We show that flies faced with an attractive visual and an aversive mechanosensory cue exhibit sequential responses, first turning away from the co-localized stimuli before turning back toward them. We also find that the presence of the aversive cue slows flies' turns toward the attractive target, suggesting that conflicting unimodal turn commands are summed to produce multisensory turns of intermediate velocity. We then test a series of computational frameworks and find that integration is best described by a model in which multimodal stimuli are continuously and dynamically scaled, converted into turn commands, and then summed to produce ongoing orientation behavior.
Impact of supraglottoplasty on parental preception of swallowing using a 10 question swallowing index.

Abstract Introduction Laryngomalacia can have a significant impact on swallowing function. Most of the studies in literature have focused on evaluating swallowing dysfunction in children with Laryngomalacia using clinical assessment and swallowing studies i.e. functional endoscopic evaluation of swallowing or videofluroscopic evaluation of swallowing. Objective The objective of the current study was to evaluate the parental perception of swallowing using a newly devised 10-point swallowing index before and after supraglottoplasty. Material and methods This was a prospective study performed at a tertiary care Aerodigestive center over a period of 18 months. A total of 51 supraglottoplasties were performed by a single surgeon over an 18-month period. Parents were asked to fill a non validated 10-point questionnaire before and after supraglottoplasty. Of the 51 surgeries, 34 surveys were completed, and 28 surveys were included in the study. All the patients were classified in to mild, moderate and severe laryngomalacia based on the established criterion. Each point in the index was graded on the Likert scale. Results A total of 28 patients who underwent supraglottoplasty were included in the study. There was a significant improvement in the overall parental perception in the swallowing of children with laryngomalacia following supraglottoplasty. There was statistically significant improvement in 9 out of 10 indices on the questionnaire. Conclusion Supraglottoplasty has an overall positive impact on parental perception of swallowing in children with Laryngomalacia. Caregivers had fewer concerns postoperatively, with fewer choking spells and breathing issues during feeds, and a greater satisfaction with the amount consumed at each feed. This Index adds a valuable subjective component to pediatric swallowing assessments pre and post supraglottoplasty. This tool could be used in conjunction with MBSS and FEES measures to provide a more comprehensive assessment.
Chronic Hepatitis B Infection: A Review

Importance More than 240 million individuals worldwide are infected with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV). Among individuals with chronic HBV infection who are untreated, 15% to 40% progress to cirrhosis, which may lead to liver failure and liver cancer. Observations Pegylated interferon and nucleos(t)ide analogues (lamivudine, adefovir, entecavir, tenofovir disoproxil, and tenofovir alafenamide) suppress HBV DNA replication and improve liver inflammation and fibrosis. Long-term viral suppression is associated with regression of liver fibrosis and reduced risk of hepatocellular carcinoma in cohort studies. The cure (defined as hepatitis B surface antigen loss with undetectable HBV DNA) rates after treatment remain low (3%-7% with pegylated interferon and 1%-12% with nucleos[t]ide analogue therapy). Pegylated interferon therapy can be completed in 48 weeks and is not associated with the development of resistance; however, its use is limited by poor tolerability and adverse effects such as bone marrow suppression and exacerbation of existing neuropsychiatric symptoms such as depression. Newer agents (entecavir, tenofovir disoproxil, and tenofovir alafenamide) may be associated with a significantly reduced risk of drug resistance compared with older agents (lamivudine and adefovir) and should be considered as the first-line treatment. Conclusions and Relevance Antiviral treatment with either pegylated interferon or a nucleos(t)ide analogue (lamivudine, adefovir, entecavir, tenofovir disoproxil, or tenofovir alafenamide) should be offered to patients with chronic HBV infection and liver inflammation in an effort to reduce progression of liver disease. Nucleos(t)ide analogues should be considered as first-line therapy. Because cure rates are low, most patients will require therapy indefinitely.
Role of P-Glycoprotein in Restricting Propranolol Transport in Cultured Rabbit Conjunctival Epithelial Cell Layers

Purpose. To determine the role of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) in propranololtransport in cultured rabbit conjunctival epithelial cell layers (RCEC).
Biosynthesis and Function of Citrus Glycosylated Flavonoids

Citrus is one of the major crops in the world with notable consumption of fresh fruit and processed fruit products. Flavonoids and flavonoid glycosides in Citrus have an impact on consumer acceptance of fruit and fruit products as well as affecting human health. Glycosylation of flavonoids is a key modification process leading to the production of the compounds actually found in plant tissues. Citrus is known for synthesis and accumulation of significant levels of flavanone and flavone glycosides. Biosynthesis of the core flavonoids and modification reactions resulting in the synthesis of flavonoid glycosides in Citrus are reviewed, with emphasis on Citrus flavonoid glycosyltransferases.
Retroshuffling the genomic deck.

According to the exon-shuffling hypothesis, new genes are assembled from chunks of old ones. But how? A study of the L1 retrotransposon —which usually moves its own sequence from one genomic location to another —suggests a new mechanism. This retrotransposon can co-mobilize a 3' flanking segment of non-L1 DNA to new locations, allowing the juxtaposition of two previously unlinked DNAs.
Achieving Spatial Adaptivity while Finding Approximate Nearest Neighbors.

We present the first spatially adaptive data structure that answers approximate nearest neighbor (ANN) queries to points that reside in a geometric space of any constant dimension d. The Lt-norm approximation ratio is O(d), and the running time for a query q is O(d lg δ(p, q)), where p is the result of the preceding query and δ(p, q) is the number of input points in a suitably-sized box containing p and q. Our data structure has O(dn) size and requires O(dn lg n) preprocessing time, where n is the number of points in the data structure. The size of the bounding box for δ depends on d, and our results rely on the Random Access Machine (RAM) model with word size Θ(lg n).
Trend Analysis of Quality Control Data

The NIH PET Department is organized as a technical core concentrating on radiochemistry. There are extensive resources available, including two medical cyclotrons (a Cyclotron Corporation CS-30 and a Japan Steel Works, JSW 1710), radiochemistry laboratories equipped with six hot cells, three PET tomographs (Scanditronix PC-1024 and PC-2048 and a Posicam 6.5), and computer hardware and software for the generation and analysis of physiological images.
The HAART-Induced Metabolic Syndrome

The presence of abnormalities of glucose metabolism (1), hyperlipidemia (2, 3, 4, 5), and body fat redistribution (6, 7, 8, 9) were first recognized in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) taking antiretrovirals approx 7 yr ago. Thus, acquired lipodystrophy and the associated metabolic syndrome, an extremely rare entity in the past, is now commonly seen in patients with HIV (10).
18 – Multiple Layers of Control in Transcriptional Regulation by MCAT Elements and the TEF-1 Protein Family

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on the interactions between MCAT elements and the TEF-1 family of transcriptional regulatory proteins, with particular emphasis on the roles of these components in cardiac-specific transcription. MCAT elements are responsible for diverse transcriptional regulatory responses of both muscle-specific and non-muscle-specific promoters. Two classes of MCAT transcriptional regulatory elements can be distinguished. One class of MCAT elements governs gene expression with a high level of cell and tissue specificity as exemplified by the cTnT gene promoter. A second class of MCAT-dependent genes, exemplified by the SV40 promoter, exhibits a low level of cell and tissue specificity. The TEF-1 genes govern gene activity in a wide variety of plants and animals. There are at least four vertebrate TEF-1 genes, some of which are expressed in a tissue-restricted fashion, with alternative splicing adding to the complexity of expressed TEF-1 proteins. These proteins are likely to bind differentially to different MCAT elements leading to distinct spatiotemporal patterns of transactivation, dependent on the cognate TEF-1 isoprotein. Recent work shows that additional DNA binding proteins are required for TEF-1 family members to act on transcription. In the case of the cardiac troponin T gene promoter, a second, unknown protein appears to bind cooperatively to flanking sequences and to the adjacent TEF-1 moiety bound to the core motif. Since NTEF-1 predominates in nonmuscle tissue, discussion hypothesized that the X-NTEF-1 complex is repressive. By contrast, in muscle tissues where RTEF-1 is abundant, the XRTEF- 1 complex stimulates transcription. The diversity of flanking sequences present in the MCAT elements of muscle promoters suggests that many different proteins may be responsible for modulating MCAT dependent promoter activity in skeletal and cardiac muscle cells.
Deleuze and Derrida: Difference and the Power of the Negative

The first scholarly comparative analysis of Jacques Derrida and Gilles Deleuze's philosophies of difference. Jacques Derrida and Gilles Deleuze are best known for their respective attempts to theoretically formulate non-dialectical conceptions of difference. Now, for the first time, Vernon W. Cisney brings you a scholarly analysis of their contrasting concepts of difference. Cisney distinguishes their conceptions of difference by differentiating them on the basis of the criticisms they level against Hegel, as well as their valorisations of Nietzsche, and the ways in which they understand Nietzsche's thought to surpass that of Hegel. The contrast between the two, Cisney argues, is that while Deleuze formulates an affirmative conception of difference, Derrida's differance amounts to an irresolvable negativity.
Effects of culture condition on epigenomic profiles of brain tumor cells.

Personalized cancer medicine offers the promise of more effective treatments that are tailored to an individual’s own dynamic cancer phenotype. Meanwhile, tissue-engineering approaches to modeling tumors may complement these advances by providing powerful new strategies for understanding the adaptation dynamics occurring during treatment. However, in both of these areas, new tools will be required to gain a full picture of the genetic and epigenetic regulators of phenotype dynamics occurring in the small populations of cells that drive resistance. In this study, we perform epigenomic analysis of brain tumor cells that are collected from microengineered three-dimensional tumor models, overcoming the challenges associated with the small numbers of cells contained within these microtissue niches, in this case collecting ∼1000 cells per sample. Specifically, we use a high-resolution epigenomic analysis method known as microfluidic-oscillatory-washing-based chromatin immunoprecipitation with sequencing (MOWChI...
Spain, Germany, and the Holocaust: Uniting Global Learning and Student Philanthropy through Transdisciplinarity

While the atrocities of the Holocaust have been well documented, this catastrophic event has been commonly studied through the lens of a single discipline. In a course co-taught by German and Spanish professors in conjunction with the 70th anniversary of the liberation of WWII concentration camps, advanced students of German and Spanish at Northern Kentucky University engaged with this topic by analyzing, comparing, and contrasting the German-Dutch (Anne Frank) and Spanish-French (Jorge Semprun) experience. To deepen students’ cross-collaboration, the two classes engaged in a philanthropy project called the Mayerson Student Philanthropy Project. The class received a $2,000 grant, researched and advocated for local nonprofits that addressed topics related to the Holocaust, and collectively decided on the final grant recipient. This article discusses the course structure, objectives, and outcomes of a transdisciplinary approach to literature, along with student feedback about the experience.
Taste and Desire

In the last chapter, we saw that as sensible rational beings, we have problems reaching our cognitive goal, understanding nature as a system. We also saw that our reflection on beautiful objects, and the objects themselves, are purposive for this goal. In making this connection, Kant shows that aesthetic judgments can help solve a cognitive problem arising from the way that we must know as beings both sensible and rational. Similarly, as sensible rational beings, we have problems achieving our moral goal. I shall argue that taste also plays an important role in overcoming those difficulties. We saw that Kant develops the link between taste and cognition in the course of discussing the nature of taste. Kant also develops the link between taste and our ability to act morally in the course of discussing the nature of taste. The link is not completed in the exposition and deduction of judgments of taste, however, but is further developed in the sections that follow the deduction of taste. We can get an initial sense of how and why Kant develops the connection between aesthetic judgments and moral judgments by returning to his conclusions from the exposition and deduction of judgments of taste.
Self-report Pain Scale Reliability in Veterans and Service Members With Traumatic Brain Injuries Undergoing Inpatient Rehabilitation.

INTRODUCTION Pain in trauma patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) may heighten cognitive-behavioral impairment and impede rehabilitation efforts. Multiple self-report pain assessment tools have been shown reliable in cognitively intact adults and children but are understudied in the cognitively impaired, particularly in persons with TBI. The objective of this study was to assess the utility and reliability of four pain assessment instruments among TBI patients during inpatient rehabilitation and the influence of cognitive impairment. METHODS Participants self-completed four pain intensity measures, the Verbal Descriptor Scale, Faces Pain Scale (Faces), Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), and Color-Enhanced Visual Analog Scale (CAS), during five study visits over a 2-week period. Data were collected on time to completion and most preferred pain measure. To assess scale reliability, participants re-rated their current pain. To assess scale responsiveness, standard mean response was measured across time and a worst past pain experience was rated. Cognitive impairment was assessed with the Memory, Orientation, and Amnesia Test. RESULTS The NRS was the most preferred measure by participants at every time point in the study. Mean pain measure completion time for all measures was under 11 seconds and did not significantly change during the study period. All scales showed very high test-retest reliability, with very strong correlations. Standard mean response from day 0 to 14 ranged from 0.387 to 0.532 across the scales. When stratified by cognitive impairment, the mean scores were consistently nominally higher for impaired participants, reaching statistical significance only for the CAS and Faces at baseline. In the cognitive impaired group, reliability for the Faces showed some weakening, as did the VAS to a milder degree. CONCLUSIONS All four pain measures demonstrated good utility, very high test-retest reliability, and satisfactory responsiveness. Greater cognitive impairment was associated with elevated pain ratings, especially in the Faces and CAS. The NRS was the most preferred by patients, regardless of cognitive impairment level.
Genetic interaction of mammalian IFT-A paralogs regulates cilia disassembly, ciliary protein trafficking, Hedgehog signaling and embryogenesis

Abstract Primary cilia are sensory organelles that are essential for eukaryotic development and health. These antenna-like structures are synthesized by intraflagellar transport protein complexes, IFT-B and IFT-A, which mediate bi-directional protein trafficking along the ciliary axoneme. Here using mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEF), we investigate the ciliary roles of two mammalian orthologues of Chlamydomonas IFT-A gene, IFT139, namely Thm1 (also known as Ttc21b) and Thm2 (Ttc21a). Thm1 loss causes perinatal lethality, and Thm2 loss allows survival into adulthood. At E14.5, the number of Thm1;Thm2 double mutant embryos is lower than that for a Mendelian ratio, indicating deletion of Thm1 and Thm2 causes mid-gestational lethality. We examined the ciliary phenotypes of mutant MEF. Thm1-mutant MEF show decreased cilia assembly, shortened primary cilia, a retrograde IFT defect for IFT and BBS proteins, and reduced ciliary entry of membrane-associated proteins. Thm1-mutant cilia also show a retrograde transport defect for the Hedgehog transducer, Smoothened, and an impaired response to Smoothened agonist, SAG. Thm2-null MEF show normal ciliary dynamics and Hedgehog signaling, but additional loss of a Thm1 allele impairs response to SAG. Further, Thm1;Thm2 double mutant MEF show enhanced cilia disassembly, and relative to Thm1-null MEF, increased impairment of IFT81 retrograde transport and of INPP5E ciliary import. Thus, Thm1 and Thm2 have unique and redundant roles in MEF. Thm1 regulates cilia assembly, and together with Thm2, cilia disassembly. Moreover, Thm1 alone and together with Thm2, regulates ciliary protein trafficking, Hedgehog signaling, and embryogenesis. These findings shed light on mechanisms underlying Thm1-, Thm2- or IFT-A-mediated ciliopathies.
EntiTies: An Interface for Annotating Ties between Entities in Text

We describe an open source web application called EntiTies for annotating the entities throughout a text and the ties between them. Example uses of this tool include extracting character networks from novels or entity networks from legal documents. EntiTies' interface allows users to annotate a text from scratch, to process it automatically, or to process it automatically and then correct it. Forking allows multiple annotations to exist for the same text. EntiTies enables texts and annotations to be easily shared with others or kept private.