cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
P-025 Calcium Channel Blocker Infusion Improves Vessel Measurement Accuracy and Aneurysm Occlusion Following Flow Diversion

Introduction/purpose To best achieve complete occlusion of aneurysms treated with flow diverters (FDs), devices must be accurately sized to precisely match the parent vessel diameter. Appropriately sized FDs will have maximal coverage over the aneurysm neck and will be more likely to induce thrombosis. Catheterization for diagnostic angiography can cause vasospasm that may affect vessel measurements. This study evaluates the effects of intra-arterial infusion of a calcium channel blocker (CCB) on angiographic measurements in patients treated with FDs, investigating the impact on the final diameter of the expanded stent following deployment and subsequent occlusion. Materials and methods Retrospective analysis was performed of prospectively maintained procedure records to identify patients with aneurysms treated with FDs. In all patients, pre-treatment measurements were recorded for vessel diameter of the distal and proximal landing zones, as well as maximum and minimum diameters between these segments. Post-treatment measurements of the stent itself following deployment were recorded at the distal and proximal ends in addition to maximum and minimum diameters. When CCB was infused prior to treatment, post-infusion pre-treatment measurements were recorded. All measurements were performed after calibrating to a catheter included on the image. Rates of occlusion and time to confirmed occlusion were noted for all patients. Independent-sample 2 tailed T-tests were performed to assess for differences in pre- and post-treatment measurements, rates of occlusion, and time to confirmed occlusion between groups with and without CCB infusion. Results 21 FDs were deployed to treat 19 aneurysms in 18 patients. CCB infusion was performed prior to deployment of 9 devices. The change in measurements noted after CCB infusion are summarized in Table 1. No significant difference was noted between groups for pre- and post-treatment measurement changes. Subsequent aneurysm occlusion was more likely to occur in the CCB infusion group (100% vs. 44.4%, p Conclusion Optimization of device sizing is important to increase FD density over the aneurysm neck and promote thrombosis. To improve accuracy of measurements of parent vessels prior to device selection, CCB infusion can reduce the effects of mild vasospasm. In this study, subsequent aneurysm occlusion was more likely to occur following FD treatment when device size selection was based on measurements performed following CCB infusion. Disclosures M. Alexander: None. R. Darflinger: None. F. Settecase: None. A. Nicholson: None. D. Cooke: None. M. Amans: None. S. Hetts: None. C. Dowd: None. R. Higashida: None. V. Halbach: None.
Liver Tropism and Factor VIII Transgene Expression after Intrauterine Chorionic Villus Stem Cell Transplantation

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Gestation is characterized by rapid mitosis and histogenesis in an immune naive environment. Growth and development of vital organs are occurring continuously at different time points throughout pregnancy under the regulation of paracrine signals, transcription and growth factors. Appropriate timing to target the developing organ of interest during in utero stem cell transplantation (IUT) may result in high level engraftment in that organ as well as recognition of foreign cells as self. Hemophilia A, is an X-linked recessive bleeding disorder caused by a mutation of the gene that encodes Factor VIII (FVIII) which is primarily produced by the liver. We hypothesize that introduction of stem cells in utero during hepatogenesis in mice (e9.5-15 days) will result in localization and persistence of stem cells in the liver. METHODOLOGY: We reported isolation and characterization of early preterm chorionic villus derived mesenchymal stem cells (PMSCs) at GA 9-13 weeks. PMSCs (n =5) were transduced with a lentiviral vector encoding B-domain deleted FVIII, GFP and luciferase reporter genes (pCCLc-MNDU3-eGFP/LUC-PGK-F8-WPRE) at an MOI (Multiplicity of Infection) of 3. Chromogenic assay was performed on cell supernatant of transduced PMSCs 72 hours after transduction. Prior to transplantation, PMSCs were plated at different densities ranging from 250,000 cells to 2 x10^6 cells and subjected to bioluminescence imaging. Intraperitoneal transplantation of PBS (control group) or with 1 x10^6 PMSCs (experimental group) was conducted in fetal mice at e12-14 days using a 33 gauge non-coring needle. Bioluminescence analysis was performed 24 hours after IUT on dams, and 12-15 days after transplantation. Mice were euthanized and liver tissue was harvested from all animals. Expression of FVIII was analyzed by RT-PCR from both groups. RESULTS: Bioluminescence imaging revealed focal density and transgene expression for transduced cells in vitro, in vivo at 24 hours and in postnatal pups 12-14 days after transplantation. Postmortem bioluminescence analysis of IUT transplanted mice showed positive bioluminescence in the livers of pups injected with transduced PMSCs. RT-PCR analysis of the liver samples using human specific FVIII primers revealed FVIII expression in liver tissues in PMSC treated mice while negative for PBS treated mice. CONCLUSION: These results demonstrate the functional survival and localization of genetically modified PMSCs in the liver after intrauterine transplantation for up to two weeks. This study provide better understanding of the cell fate of stem cells after IUT and suggest that appropriate timing of stem cell transplantation in utero may lead to immunological tolerance. Disclosures Powell: CSL Behring: Employment.
Soft Tissue Injuries of the Hand

Soft tissue injuries of the hand may result from a range of pathologies including penetrating injuries, burns, frostbite, crush injuries, and bites. All such injuries require thorough evaluation for neurovascular status, along with signs of tendon injury or infection. Neurovascular or infectious exam findings may escalate management.
Coincidence velocity map imaging using a single detector

We demonstrate a single-detector velocity map imaging setup which is capable of rapidly switching between coincidence and non-coincidence measurements. By rapidly switching the extraction voltages on the electrostatic lenses, both electrons and ions can be collected in coincidence with a single detector. Using a fast camera as the 2D detector avoids the saturation problem associated with traditional delay line detectors and allows for easy transitions between coincidence and non-coincidence data collection modes. This is a major advantage in setting up a low-cost and versatile coincidence apparatus. We present both coincidence and non-coincidence measurements of strong field atomic and molecular ionization.
Does elastin deficiency cause chronic kidney disease

Elastin deficiency in aging and disease is linked to increased vascular stiffness and hypertension, which are both associated with chronic kidney disease. Owens et al. show that alterations in renal arteries and kidney structure precede or are independent of hypertension in elastin haploinsufficient mice. This commentary addresses the authors' findings in light of the relationships between elastin amounts, vascular stiffness, and pressure wave reflection and transmission in the kidney vasculature.
Ultrafast fractionation of lignocellulosic biomass by microwave-assisted deep eutectic solvent pretreatment.

Abstract Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) have received increasing attention in recent years as designer solvents for bioprocessing. In this study, ultrafast microwave-assisted DES pretreatment was developed for lignocellulose fractionation. The pretreatment was conducted for 45 s with microwave irradiation at 800 W using a DES composed of choline chloride and lactic acid (ChCl: LA). The results indicated that such pretreatment was highly effective in removing lignin and xylan while retaining most of cellulose in the pretreated solids. The ultrafast fractionation increased the cellulose digestibility by 2–5 folds. Switchgrass gave a similar glucose yield to corn stover but experienced less cellulose loss during the pretreatment. Miscanthus was also substantially fractionated but showed lower digestibility than switchgrass and corn stover. Lignin was readily recoverable with relatively high purity from all the pretreatment liquor. Our study demonstrated an innovative ultrafast pretreatment process with superior effectiveness for biomass fractionation and cellulose digestibility improvement as well as lignin extraction.
Life at the Gap

Before throwing ourselves into the gap to explore in more detail Galileo’s idea of motion and its operatic compossibles, we need to take a deep breath and take stock of where we have arrived around the bend.
The Secret of the Hominin Mind: An Evolutionary Story

As Darwin and Wallace neatly surmised, organic evolution results from a selection process that acts to preserve traits better suited for a given habitat. And there is no better example of its potent influence than the hominin brain and mind. Why do humans have such large and complex brains? As a rule, larger brains are energy costly so we can assume that our encephalized brain evolved to meet environmental demands, and if so, clues should exist in the context of the problems it evolved to solve. As the control center for human activity, the brain directs all body functions—from our extraordinary sensorimotor skills to lots of mind-related business. It houses both a “social self” with a complex linguistic-based communication system to move ideas from one mind to another and an “individual self,” a rare character in the animal world that lends itself to a personal identity distinct from other conspecifics and to the taking of the role of others. The elusive social mind also has the novel capacity to engage in two distinctive types of sociality—the ability to form tight-knit kinship bonds or strong ties, a trait shared with all social mammals, and the ability to form loose-knit friendship bonds or weak-ties, a rare trait in the animal world but essential for the creation of large-scale societies with millions of individuals. What compelling demands in our ultimate history fostered such splendid cognitive traits?
PS1:1 High type i interferon activity is associated with active class 3/4 lupus nephritis in european-american lupus patients independent of anti-dsdna antibodies

Background/purpose Lupus nephritis (LN) is one of the most severe types of organ involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), despite the recent advances in immunosuppressive therapies. High type 1 interferon (IFN) is a heritable risk for SLE, and some previous studies have suggested a link between high IFN and lupus nephritis. However, little is known about the relationships between high levels of IFN and the subtypes of LN, and whether IFN is more associated with anti-dsDNA antibodies or with clinical nephritis. Methods We studied 244 European-American (EA) SLE patients and measured type 1 IFN in sera by performing WISH IFN bioassay as described previously. Subtypes of LN were confirmed by renal biopsy review. Complements, anti-dsDNA and other auto-antibodies were measured in the clinical laboratory, and standard clinical cut-offs were used to define a positive result. Non-parametric analyses were used to compare IFN data with the clinical data. Results IFN level and SLEDAI score was positively correlated (r=0.26, p 2) were more likely to have renal manifestations compared to the subjects with a low levels of IFN (IFN score Conclusion Our data support an association between type 1 IFN and class 3/4 nephritis that is independent of overall SLEDAI and anti-dsDNA antibodies, suggesting that IFN is involved in renal pathogenesis. These data also suggest that IFN could predict renal disease activity or the future risk of developing LN, especially class 3/4 LN in EA SLE patients.
Considering Benedict options: missiological reflections in a fractious age:

An adequate missiology depends, among other things, on a grasp of the present reality in which missiological reflection happens. The past few years of global political transformation invite consideration of a missiology adequate for the present fractiousness. This paper sketches three possible missiological stances for Christian communities to take vis-a-vis the world, each framed as a Benedict option. Option one derives from Rod Dreher’s book The Benedict Option and urges strategic withdrawal from the world, inspired by St. Benedict. Option two draws inspiration from Pope Benedict XVI and advances intellectual inquiry and understanding. Option three looks back to Pope Benedict XV to highlight ecclesial engagement in addressing social issues. An adequate missiology need not choose one option to the exclusion of the others. Instead it must draw upon critical theologies of Christ and church to forge missional faithfulness, an especially critical task in a fractious age.
Virtual MRS: Spectral Simulation and its Applications

Abstract There has been a significant increase in the use of spectral simulation in many areas of clinical research in the past decade, due greatly to improved access to more powerful mainstream computers and open source simulation software packages. Spectral simulation software is available in both software library and simulation application formats. They may be command line driven or have a graphical user interface. Regardless of the top level “wrapper”, the underlying elements typically make use of object-oriented programming techniques to map NMR operators and elements directly to software objects. This simplifies the learning curve for researchers by allowing them to create simulations with terminology closely matched with either NMR physics notation or pulse sequence program language style. The design and implementation of spectral simulations depends greatly on the level of complexity needed to achieve the desired specificity in results, tempered by the computational time required. Spectral simulation methods provide fruitful opportunities for pulse sequence development. They can be used to optimize existing pulse sequence settings for the observation of specific metabolite structures. They can also be applied towards shortening the development time for new sequences. Also, the spectral estimation output from a simulation can serve as the input to a model driven spectral analysis algorithm for estimating the content of both in vitro and in vivo MRS signals. Specific case studies for each of these areas, and observations on their design and results, are given.
Treating Students with Personality Disorders: A Costly Dilemma

Abstract Current restrictions on financing college and university mental health services have tended to limit psychotherapy to only a few sessions in the vast majority of cases, but very brief psychotherapy does not fit the needs of students with major emotional problems. “Referring out” such students may result merely in sustaining their problems because outside care is not affordable and/or too limited itself. Personality disorders epitomize the cost/care dilemma. Both providing really adequate care and denying it are costly. Inadequately treated students are likely to be disruptive to all concerned, including themselves. The author focuses this dilemma on borderline personality, defining these disorders, observing the potentials for violence and how it is so often enabled, and then addressing the both therapist and student psychodynamics. He concludes with observations about the enabling factor of campuses as breeding grounds for deviant behavior.
Prestressed Vibration of Stiffened Variable-Angle Tow Laminated Plates

Compared to straight fiber path laminates, variable-angle tow (VAT) laminates are known to redistribute the in-plane stress resultants for improving structural buckling response. The VAT laminates ...
The Extraterritorial Constitutional Rights of Aliens in the Federal Circuit

Using a recent Federal Circuit case, Atamirzayeva v. United States, this article explores how extraterritorial constitutional protections for aliens have changed over time. While the Federal Circuit has largely protected the right to just compensation for aliens who experience "takings" at the hands of the U.S. Government, the Federal Circuit retreated from that view in Atamirzayeva. Citing the 1990 Supreme Court case in which the Supreme Court found that Fourth Amendment rights are not available to aliens outside the United States, Verdugo-Urquidez v. United States, the Atamirzayeva court rejected an alien's claim to just compensation. Shortly thereafter, the Supreme Court in Boumediene v. Bush found that aliens at Guantanamo Naval Base, Cuba, did have some measure of extraterritorial constitutional protection: the right to petition for habeas corpus. This article advocates creating a single uniform standard for determining which constitutional rights protect aliens abroad. By parsing the Constitution between those provisions that create procedural rights and those which act as a limitation on the powers of Government, courts can come up with standards to protect aliens from unjust treatment, no matter where in the world such treatment occurs. In the famous Insular Cases, the Supreme Court found that it was not appropriate to enforce every provision of the American Constitution ex-Spanish colonies now under U.S. control. The Court instead favored the protection of "fundamental rights" rather than rights that are unique to the American system of justice, such as trial by jury. Extraterritorial constitutional law should be used to protect the "fundamental rights" of aliens, while procedural rights should only be given to those who have a Verdugo-style "substantial connection" with the United States and, therefore, a reasonable expectation of the application of American legal procedures. Because the right to property is an example of a fundamental right, Fifth Amendment takings claims should be able to proceed even when pressed by aliens outside the United States.Although the possibility of aliens all over the world suing for damages caused by military and political actions of the U.S. Government may have been a consideration for the Federal Circuit in rejecting Mrs. Atamirzayeva's claim, it should not have been. The political question doctrine, which holds that military and political determinations by the political branches of government are nonjusticiable in the courts, should be used instead to dismiss cases that are inappropriate for trial.
Technetium immobilization by materials through sorption and redox-driven processes: A literature review.

Radioiodine-129 (129I) in the subsurface is mobile and limited information is available on treatment technologies. Scientific literature was reviewed to compile information on materials that could potentially be used to immobilize 129I through sorption and redox-driven processes, with an emphasis on ex-situ processes. Candidate materials to immobilize 129I include iron minerals, sulfur-based materials, silver-based materials, bismuth-based materials, ion exchange resins, activated carbon, modified clays, and tailored materials (metal organic frameworks (MOFS), layered double hydroxides (LDHs) and aerogels). Where available, compiled information includes material performance in terms of (i) capacity for 129I uptake; (ii) long-term performance (i.e., solubility of a precipitated phase); (iii) technology maturity; (iv) cost; (v) available quantity; (vi) environmental impact; (vii) ability to emplace the technology for in situ use at the field-scale; and (viii) ex situ treatment (for media extracted from the subsurface or secondary waste streams). Because it can be difficult to compare materials due to differences in experimental conditions applied in the literature, materials will be selected for subsequent standardized batch loading tests.
Forty Years of Assessing Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Effects of Prenatal Alcohol Exposure in Infants: What Have We Learned?

It has been known for over 4 decades that prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) can adversely affect neurodevelopment and behavior (NDB). Yet, early detection of altered NDB due to PAE continues to present a major clinical challenge. Identification of altered NDB in the first 2 years of life, before higher-order cognitive processes develop, invites early interventions for affected children to improve long-term outcomes. Studies published in English from January of 1980 to July of 2018 were identified in PubMed/MEDLINE. The review focused on prospective birth cohort studies which used standardized NDB assessments in children up to 2 years of age, wherein PAE was the main exposure and NDB was the main outcome. NDB was categorized into the domains of neurocognitive, adaptive, and self-regulation based on the 2016 Updated Clinical Guidelines for Diagnosing fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. An initial search resulted in 1,867 articles for which we reviewed abstracts; 114 were selected for full-text review; and 3 additional abstracts were identified through review of references in eligible publications. Thirty-one publications met criteria and were included: of these, 24 reported neurocognitive outcomes, 24 reported adaptive behavior outcomes, and 12 reported outcomes in the domain of self-regulation. Although self-regulation was assessed in the fewest number of studies, 8/12 (75%) reported PAE-associated deficits. In contrast, results were mixed for the other 2 domains: 13/24 (54%) of the selected studies that included neurocognitive outcomes showed poorer performance following PAE, and 8/24 (33%) studies that assessed adaptive functioning found significant differences between PAE and comparison infants. There is considerable evidence to support the value of early-life assessments of infant NDB when PAE is known or suspected. More studies focusing on infant self-regulation, in particular, are needed to determine the utility of early evaluation of this critical developmental domain in infants with PAE.
The functional implications of tracheary connections across growth rings in four northern hardwood trees.

Background and aims Deciduous angiosperm trees transport xylem sap through trunks and branches in vessels within annual growth rings. Utilizing previous growth rings for sap transport could increase vessel network size and redundancy but may expose new xylem to residual air embolisms in the network. Despite the important role of vessel networks in sap transport and drought resistance, our understanding of cross-ring connections within and between species is limited. Methods We studied cross-ring connections in four temperate deciduous trees using dye staining and X-ray microcomputed tomography (microCT) to detect xylem connectivity across growth rings and quantify their impact on hydraulic conductivity. Key results Acer rubrum and Fraxinus americana had cross-ring connections visible in microCT but only A. rubrum used previous growth rings for axial sap flow. Fagus grandifolia and Quercus rubra, however, did not have cross-ring connections. Accounting for the number of growth rings that function for axial transport improved hydraulic conductivity estimates. Conclusions These data suggest that the presence of cross-ring connections may help explain aspects of whole-tree xylem sap transport and should be considered for plant hydraulics measurements in these species and others with similar anatomy.
Improved Retinal Organoid Differentiation by Modulating Signaling Pathways Revealed by Comparative Transcriptome Analyses with Development In Vivo

Summary Stem cell-derived retinal organoids recapitulate many landmarks of in vivo differentiation but lack functional maturation of distinct cell types, especially photoreceptors. Using comprehensive temporal transcriptome analyses, we show that transcriptome shift from postnatal day 6 (P6) to P10, associated with morphogenesis and synapse formation during mouse retina development, was not evident in organoids, and co-expression clusters with similar patterns included different sets of genes. Furthermore, network analysis identified divergent regulatory dynamics between developing retina in vivo and in organoids, with temporal dysregulation of specific signaling pathways and delayed or reduced expression of genes involved in photoreceptor function(s) and survival. Accordingly, addition of docosahexaenoic acid and fibroblast growth factor 1 to organoid cultures specifically promoted the maturation of photoreceptors, including cones. Our study thus identifies regulatory signals deficient in developing retinal organoids and provides experimental validation by producing a more mature retina in vitro, thereby facilitating investigations in disease modeling and therapies.
Identification of introduced and stably inherited DNA methylation variants in soybean associated with soybean cyst nematode parasitism

DNA methylation is a widespread epigenetic mark that contributes to transcriptome reprogramming during plant-pathogen interactions. However, the distinct role of DNA methylation in establishing resistant and susceptible responses remains largely unexplored. Here, we developed and used a pair of near-isogenic lines (NILs) to characterize DNA methylome landscapes of soybean roots during the susceptible and resistant interactions with soybean cyst nematode (SCN; Heterodera glycines). We also compared the methylomes of the NILs and their parents to identify introduced and stably inherited methylation variants. The genomes of the NILs were substantially differentially methylated under uninfected conditions. This difference was associated with differential gene expression that may prime the NIL responses to SCN infection. In response to SCN infection, the susceptible line exhibited reduced global methylation levels in both protein-coding genes and transposable elements, whereas the resistant line showed the opposite response, increased global methylation levels. Heritable and novel nonparental differentially methylated regions overlapping with genes associated with soybean response to SCN infection were identified and validated using transgenic hairy root system. Our analyses indicate that DNA methylation patterns associated with the susceptible and resistant interactions are highly specific and that novel and stably inherited methylation variants are of biological significance.
Do L2 lexical and syntactic accuracy develop in parallel? Accuracy development in L2 Chinese writing

Abstract In a departure from the conflated analysis methods used to measure linguistic accuracy in previous studies, the current study provides an independent analysis of L2 Chinese written lexical and syntactic accuracy to test the possibility that they may tap into different linguistic abilities. A range of measures were used to analyze lexical and syntactic accuracy performance and their interrelations in writing. The results show that lexical and syntactic accuracy contribute to L2 accuracy in different and unique ways. Lexical accuracy showed a V-shaped development, regressing in the middle-score group and rebounding in the high-score group. Syntactic accuracy demonstrated a relatively linear development from the low-score to the high-score group. The correlations between lexical and syntactic accuracy decreased with increased proficiency, and specific lexical or syntactic accuracy features displayed differential developmental paths and capacity in distinguishing proficiencies.
Measurements toward a theory of light emitting diode reversal attacks, Part 1: Error Avoidance

To understand a new cybersecurity vulnerability involving intentional EMI at frequencies above the RF spectrum, a low cost, high-power, tunable light source across UV, IR, and visible was needed. It turned out to be much more difficult than expected to make. Elimination of sources of error was the primary design goal. This paper describes false starts, blind alleys, and traps for the unwary unfunded experimenter. Wrong make-versus-buy choices can impede results for a long time. In the end, simpler is better, and a straight-through optical path has fewer opportunities for introducing error.
Efficacy of Virtual Case-Based General Surgery Clerkship Curriculum During COVID-19 Distancing.

The COVID-19 pandemic created a paradigm shift in medical education with a reliance upon alternative teaching methods to deliver meaningful surgery clerkship content. This study examines the efficacy of a novel, case-based virtual surgery clerkship curriculum to determine its impact on student experience during quarantine. Sixteen third-year medical students enrolled in the General Surgery clerkship between April through June 2020 during COVID-19 distancing at a quaternary medical center (Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH) participated in this study. Course surveys, including a 10-question curriculum-based multiple-choice assessment, were administered before and after the clerkship. Analyses include student self-perception of readiness to see a surgical consult independently, students’ interest in pursuing a General Surgery residency, and improvement of surgical knowledge. On a 5-point Likert scale, students felt significantly more assured in their ability to independently assess a surgical consult by the end of the course. Five (31%) students reported an influence of the curriculum on their personal interest in a career in General Surgery. Mean scores on the curriculum-based knowledge assessment increased. These findings highlight that a virtual platform can be a reliable alternative adjunct that delivers surgical content and positively impacts student experience.
Determinants of dollarization : the banking side

Dollarization in financial intermediation has exhibited a widely diverse pattern across countries. Empirical work relating it to macroeconomic variables has had only limited success in explaining the phenomenon. This paper presents a two-currency banking model to show that deposit and loan dollarization are determined by a broader set of factors. These include interest rates and exchange rate risk, as well as structural factors related to costly banking, credit market imperfections, and availability of tradable collateral. The direction in which dollarization tends to move with macroeconomic shocks is shown to depend on those factors as well as on initial dollarization levels.
A Note on 'Rethinking John Snow’s South London study: A Bayesian evaluation and recalculation'

Koch and Denike (2006), in examining Snow's analysis of cholera in south London in 1854 (Snow (1856)) have claimed that "Snow made ... conceptual mistakes that adversely affected his results." Koch and Denike's claims, analysis, and conclusions are wrong: they mis-read or mis-interpret the underlying data; they incorrectly apply an inappropriate statistical test; they alter the underlying primary-source data; and some of their published test results cannot be reproduced using their published data. Although Snow's analysis fails to meet modern standards of statistical rigor (primarily due to the lack of appropriate tools in Snow's era) Snow's approach and his claims about the strength of the effect of water do survive re-analysis using modern statistical methods.
Leg press and chest press strength normative values by half-decades in older persons.

Abstract Evaluating muscular strength is vital to the application of effective training protocols that target quality of life and independence in older individuals. Resistance training is a valuable tool to improve functional capacity, strength, and power in this population; however, the lack of normative values for common lifts such as the leg press (LP) and chest press (CP) reduce its utility. This study developed age- and sex-specific normative strength values for older individuals. LP and CP 1-repetition maximum (1RM) values on Keiser A420 pneumatic machines were compiled from 445 older adults, ages 60-85y. Descriptive statistics and quartile rankings are reported, and two-way ANOVAs were conducted to determine differences between sex and age groups. There were significant sex x age group interactions for LP and CP. Men were significantly stronger than women across all age groups for both exercises (p
Intraoperative diastolic function assessed by TEE does not agree with preoperative diastolic function grade in CABG patients.

OBJECTIVE To compare the agreement of the 2016 ASE/EACVI guidelines for grading diastolic dysfunction (DD) with the most commonly used intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography (TEE)-based diastolic function grading algorithm in cardiac surgical patients, and to describe the contribution of the echocardiographic variables used in the algorithms to any observed differences. DESIGN Retrospective data analysis. SETTING University tertiary medical center. PARTICIPANTS Hundred and one patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) at a single institution from June 2017 to February 2019. INTERVENTIONS Preoperative transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) diastolic function grade determined by the 2016 American Society of Echocardiography (ASE)/European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging (EACVI) guidelines was compared to intraoperative diastolic function grade obtained by TEE. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Incidence of DD on preoperative TTE was only 19.8%, while 62.3% of patients were graded as having DD on the intraoperative TEE exam. There was grade agreement between TTE and TEE in only 47/101 patients (46.5%). The McNemar test showed poor agreement between the two algorithms (OR for disagreement = 15.33, CI = 4.77-49.30; p < 0.0001). Despite the low incidence of DD on preoperative TTE, mean lateral e' values were significantly lower on TTE compared to TEE (7.7 cm/s vs 9.5 cm/s; p = < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS There is strong disagreement between TTE and TEE-based DD grading algorithms. Due to the different echocardiographic variables used in each and the unique clinical settings in which they are applied, they produce fundamentally different results.
Applying a Probabilistic Infection Model for studying contagion processes in contact networks

Abstract Modeling the spread of infectious diseases is central to the field of computational epidemiology. Two prominent approaches to modeling the contagion process include (i) simulating the spread in contact networks through Monte-Carlo processes and (ii) tracking the disease dynamics using meta-population models. In both cases, the individuals are explicitly (contact networks) or implicitly (meta-population) assumed to belong to exactly one disease state (e.g., susceptible, infected, etc.). In reality, the disease states of individuals are rarely so cleanly compartmentalized. A particular agent can exist in multiple disease states (such as infected and exposed) concurrently with varying probability. To model this stochasticity, we present a new method, that we term as the Probabilistic Infection Model (PIM). Unlike traditional models that assign exactly one state to each agent at each time step, the PIM computes the probability of each agent being in each of the infectious states. Our proposed PIM provides a more layered understanding of the dynamics of the outbreak at individual levels, by allowing the users to (i) estimate the value of R0 at individual vertices and (ii) instead of an all or none value, provides the probability of each infected state of an agent. Additionally, using our probabilistic approach the overall trajectories of the outbreaks can be computed in one simulation, as opposed to the numerous (order of hundreds) repeated simulations required for the Monte Carlo process. We demonstrate the efficacy of PIM by comparing the results of the PIM simulations with those obtained by simulating stochastic SEIR models, as well as the time required for the simulations. We present results at the system and at the individual levels for three diseases; measles and two strains of influenza. We demonstrate how the PIM can be used to study the effect of varying the transimissibility of COVID-19 on its outbreak. This paper is an extended version of a manuscript published in the proceedings of the 2020 International Conference on Computational Science (ICCS) [30] . These extensions are primarily within Sections 4 (Relationship between graph structure and probability of infection) and 5 (Effect of varying COVID-19 transmissibility on outbreak dynamics).
In situ motions of individual inner-hair-cell stereocilia from stapes stimulation in adult mice.

In vertebrate hearing organs, mechanical vibrations are converted to ionic currents through mechanoelectrical-transduction (MET) channels. Concerted stereocilia motion produces an ensemble MET current driving the hair-cell receptor potential. Mammalian cochleae are unique in that the tuning of sensory cells is determined by their mechanical environment and the mode of hair-bundle stimulation that their environment creates. However, little is known about the in situ intra-hair-bundle motions of stereocilia relative to one another, or to their environment. In this study, high-speed imaging allowed the stereocilium and cell-body motions of inner hair cells to be monitored in an ex vivo organ of Corti (OoC) mouse preparation. We have found that the OoC rotates about the base of the inner pillar cell, the hair bundle rotates about its base and lags behind the motion of the apical surface of the cell, and the individual stereocilia move semi-independently within a given hair bundle. Wang et al. use high-speed imaging to examine the in situ movement of inner hair-cell stereocilia in the mouse ear. They report that these individual cilia move semi-independently within their given bundle, which forms part of a larger complex within the inner ear, providing unique filtering opportunity for hearing in mammals.
Evaluation of subcutaneous daratumumab injections in the ambulatory care setting.

Introduction Subcutaneous daratumumab is non-inferior to intravenous daratumumab for the treatment of multiple myeloma and significantly reduced incidence of systemic reactions. However, manufacturer for subcutaneous daratumumab has not provided guidance regarding optimal methods for monitoring for hypersensitivity reactions following subcutaneous daratumumab administration. Methods A retrospective analysis was performed in two cohorts of patients who received at least two doses of subcutaneous daratumumab for the treatment of plasma cell disorders: patients with previous exposure to intravenous daratumumab (dara-exposed) and patients without history of intravenous daratumumab (dara-naive). The primary outcome was incidence of systemic and injection-site reactions following first dose of subcutaneous daratumumab. Secondary analysis included time to systemic and injection-site reactions, grading of adverse reaction, and incidence of second systemic reaction. Results Thirty-one patients were dara-naive and 49 patients were dara-exposed. Differences in incidence of systemic (dara-naive: 9.7% vs dara-exposed: 6.1%, p = 0.67) and injection-site reactions (dara-naive: 12.9% vs dara-exposed: 14.3%, p = 0.99) did not reach statistical significance. Difference in median time to systemic reaction (dara-naive: 3 h vs dara-exposed: 12 h, p = 0.18) was clinically important but did not reach statistical significance. Median time to injection-site reactions (dara-naive: 6 h vs dara-exposed: 24 h, p = 0.03) was shorter in the dara-naive cohort. No clinically meaningful difference was observed for incidence of second systemic reaction. Conclusion Most reactions were mild and did not require medical intervention. Following first subcutaneous daratumumab dose, monitoring for 3 h for dara-naive patients and no monitoring time for dara-exposed patients for hypersensitivity reactions may be a safe and reasonable practice.
Inoculation Preparation Affects Survival of Salmonella enterica on Whole Black Peppercorns and Cumin Seeds Stored at Low Water Activity.

Salmonellosis has been increasingly associated with contaminated spices. Identifying inoculation and stabilization methods for Salmonella on whole spices is important for development of validated inactivation processes. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of inoculation preparation on the recoverability of Salmonella enterica from dried whole peppercorns and cumin seeds. Whole black peppercorns and cumin seeds were inoculated with S. enterica using one dry transfer method and various wet inoculation methods: immersion of spice seeds in tryptic soy broth (TSB) plus Salmonella for 24 h (likely leading to inclusion of Salmonella in native microbiota biofilms formed around the seeds), application of cells grown in TSB, and/or application of cells scraped from tryptic soy agar (TSA). Postinoculation seeds were dried to a water activity of 0.3 within 24 h and held for 28 days. Seeds were sampled after drying (time 0) and periodically during the 28 days of storage. Salmonella cells were enumer...
Induction over the Continuum

We exploit the analogy between the well ordering principle for nonempty subsets of N (the set of natural numbers) and the existence of a greatest lower bound for non-empty subsets of [a,b)1 to formulate a principle of induction over the continuum for [a,b) analogous to induction over N. While the gist of the idea for this principle has been alluded to, our formulation seems novel. To demonstrate the efficiency of the approach, we use the new induction form to give a proof of the compactness of [a,b]. (Compactness, which plays a key role in topology, will be briefly discussed.) Although the proof is not fundamentally different from many familiar ones, it is direct and transparent. We also give other applications of the new principle.
Common Subexpression Induction

SIMEI (Single Instruction stream, Multiple Data stream) computers can only execute the exact same instruction across all processing elements. This paper presents a new com;piler optimization that transforms multiple distinct code threads so that they have as many instructions in common a; possible, hence, SIMD execution time is minimized. For example, SIMD "parallel i f " statements typically take the then clause time plus the else clause time to execute, but this new tmnsformation usually can induce identical code sequences for most of the code in the then and else clauses, often yielding a 40% improvement in execution speed. The same principle also could be used to transform code which operates on multiple short vectors into operations on long vectors containing the catenation of the shorter vectors; for example, operations on two 8,192-element arrays might be combined into a single operation apparently acting on a 16,384-element array.
Preliminary data from community aging in place, advancing better living for elders, a patient-directed, team-based intervention to improve physical function and decrease nursing home utilization: the first 100 individuals to complete a centers for medicare and medicaid services innovation project.

Current medical models frequently overlook functional limitations and the home environment even though they partially determine healthcare usage and quality of life. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Innovation Center funds projects that have potential to affect the “triple aim,” a framework for decreasing costs while improving health and quality of life. This article presents preliminary data from Community Aging in Place, Advancing Better Living for Elders (CAPABLE), a model funded by the CMS Innovation Center and designed to overcome the functional and home environmental barriers of older adults. CAPABLE is a patient-directed, team-based intervention comprising an occupational therapist, a registered nurse, and a handyman to decrease hospitalization and nursing home usage of community-dwelling older adults with functional limitations who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Activity of daily living limitations improved in 79% of the first 100 people who completed the intervention. Preliminary findings of this novel intervention may have implications for other older adults with functional limitations.
Simulation and performance of data communication using AMSS

This paper reports the findings of a simulation of the Aeronautical Mobile Satellite Service (AMSS) to be used in the ATN (Aeronautical Telecommunications Network). The models of the protocols used in this simulation were designed to be compliant with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices (SARP). The focus of this research is on the data communication capabilities of the AMSS. The simulated performance characteristics for a region of the AMSS are presented. The results are analyzed to determine the efficiency, limitations, and behavior of this service for the foreseen data communication.
Design improvements for Primary-Side-Regulated high-power flyback converters in Continuous-Conduction-Mode

Primary-Side-Regulation (PSR) indirectly senses output voltage, to eliminate the secondary-side error amplifier and feedback opto-coupler - saving cost and standby power. PSR is commonly used in low-power Discontinuous-Conduction-Mode (DCM) flyback converters, but rarely at high power, or in Continuous-Conduction-mode (CCM). A new generation PSR flyback control scheme can achieve better than 1% load/line regulation and CCM operation at power levels to 100 W and beyond. The scheme uses a fixed-sample-point algorithm and a novel compensation scheme, to adjust for errors, dramatically improving static regulation, and extending PSR operation to much higher power.
On the Doppler effect in plane wave scattering by moving conducting bodies

The phase of the scattered fields resulting from the interaction of arbitrarily polarized plane waves and uniformly moving conducting bodies of arbitrary cylindrical cross section is examined. Conditions are derived under which a Doppler effect may be defined in the conventional manner.
Optimizing feature selection strategy for adaptive object identification in noisy environment

We present the development of a multi-stage automatic target recognition (MS-ATR) system for computer vision in robotics. This paper discusses our work in optimizing the feature selection strategies of the MS-ATR system. Past implementations have utilized Optimum Trade-off Maximum Average Correlation Height (OT‐MACH) filtering as an initial feature selection method, and principal component analysis (PCA) as a feature extraction strategy before the classification stage. Recent work has been done in the implementation of a modified saliency algorithm as a feature selection method. Saliency is typically implemented as a “bottom-up” search process using visual sensory information such as color, intensity, and orientation to detect salient points in the imagery. It is a general saliency mapping algorithm that receives no input from the user on what is considered salient. We discuss here a modified saliency algorithm that accepts the guidance of target features in locating regions of interest (ROI). By introducing target related input parameters, saliency becomes more focused and task oriented. It is used as an initial stage for the fast ROI detection method. The ROIs are passed to the later stages for feature extraction and target identification process.