cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Unmet core needs for self-determination in HIV-infected women of color in medical care.

ABSTRACTThe levels of satisfaction of the core self-determination needs (relatedness, autonomy and competence) among HIV-infected women of color as well as the association between need fulfillment and patient characteristics were examined. Having less than a high-school education was associated with lowest need satisfaction: autonomy (β = −1.90; 95%CI = −3.20, −0.60), relatedness (β = −2.70; 95%CI = −4.30, −1.10) and competency (β = −2.50; 95%CI = −3.60, −1.30). Each additional point increase in affective symptoms of depression was associated with decrements in need satisfaction (−.61 autonomy, −.68 relatedness and −.59 competency). Relatedness satisfaction was lower with higher responses on all three measures of violence (psychological abuse: β = −0.13, 95%CI = −0.19 to −0.07; adult traumatic experiences: β = −0.24, 95%CI = −0.35 to −0.13 and childhood traumatic experiences: β = −0.24, 95%CI = −0.40 to −0.08). Interventions that address core self-determination needs, and the characteristics that influenc...
Adult picky eaters with symptoms of avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder: comparable distress and comorbidity but different eating behaviors compared to those with disordered eating symptoms

One presentation of Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is characterized by picky eating, i.e., selective eating based on the sensory properties of food. The present study has two aims. The first is to describe distress and impairment in individuals with ARFID secondary to picky eating. The second is to determine whether eating behaviors hypothesized to be specific to picky eating can differentiate picky eaters with and without ARFID from typical eaters (e.g., individuals not reporting picky or disordered eating) and individuals who strongly endorse attitudes associated with anorexia and bulimia (eating disordered attitudes). Participants were recruited from Amazon’s Mechanical Turk (N = 325) and an online support group for adult picky eaters (N = 81). Participants were grouped based on endorsement of picky eating, ARFID symptoms, and elevated eating disordered attitudes on the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26). The resulting four eating behavior groups were compared on measures of distress and impairment (e.g., anxiety/depression and, obsessive compulsive disorder symptoms, eating-related quality of life) and on measures of eating behaviors associated with picky eating (e.g., food neophobia, inflexibility about preparation and presentation of preferred foods, sensitivity to sensory stimuli, and eating from a very narrow range of foods). The groups were compared using one way ANOVA with post-hoc Tamhane’s T2 tests. On measures of distress and impairment, participants with ARFID reported higher scores than both typical eaters and picky eaters without ARFID, and comparable scores to those with disordered eating attitudes. Three of four measures of picky eating behavior, eating inflexibility, food neophobia, and eating from a range of 20 or fewer foods, distinguished picky eaters with and without ARFID form typical eaters and those with disordered eating attitudes. Picky eaters with ARFID reported greater food neophobia and eating inflexibility, and were more likely to eat from a narrow range of foods, compared to picky eaters without ARFID. Adult picky eaters can be differentiated from those with symptoms of anorexia and bulimia by their stronger endorsement of food neophobia and inflexible eating behaviors, and by eating from a very narrow range of foods. Picky eaters with ARFID symptoms can be differentiated from picky eaters without these symptoms on the basis of these three eating behaviors, and by their higher endorsement of internalizing distress, OCD symptoms, and eating-related quality of life impairment. This study provides evidence that ARFID symptoms exist independently of symptoms of other eating disorders and are characterized by several distinct eating behaviors. In a clinical analogue sample of disordered eaters, ARFID symptoms were associated with distress and impairment at levels comparable to symptoms of anorexia and bulimia.
Diminished innate, but not adaptive, immune responses in migrating adult Chinook salmon, Oncorhynchus tshawytscha (VET1P.1127)

In wild systems, animals have to balance the energy required to mount an immune response with other requirements necessary to survive and procreate. An extreme example is migrating adult Pacific salmon species, which cease feeding at the start of their migration from salt water to fresh water. During the migration, salmon must swim against strong currents, compete for mates, evade predation, and contend with freshwater pathogens. We quantified the immune response in migrating adult Chinook salmon, Oncorhynchus tshawytscha, at different times and locations during the run using several different measures. We measured the levels of immunoglobulin heavy chain mu and heavy chain tau mRNA transcript in the anterior kidney and found that levels of both secreted and membrane bound forms of the heavy chain did not diminish during migration, and importantly, that they remained unchanged even after spawning. We also measured the innate anti-bacterial ability of plasma isolated from fish to prevent the growth of a lab strain of E. coli. Contrary to the humoral immune response, the innate anti-bacterial components of plasma diminished at later time points in the run leading up to spawning. Diminished immune response was not due to IL-10 secretion, as transcripts for this cytokine were similar at all time points that were examined. These data suggest that in the face of limited energy resources, innate immune responses diminish while adaptive responses remain unchanged.
Neural Network Based Methodology for Automatic Detection of Whale Blows in Infrared Video

In this paper, we propose a new methodology based on neural networks to detect the presence of whale blows in infrared video. The algorithm is designed based on the spatial and temporal characteristics of whale blows. The first part of the algorithm consists of thresholding techniques that filter out the possible candidates to a group containing whale blows and certain textures on the sea. A novel thresholding technique called grid thresholding is proposed so that the detector is able to detect very small blows while keeping the number of false positives to a minimum. As the final part of the detection algorithm we have used a neural network to differentiate between whale blows and the various textures on the surface of the sea.
Serine Metabolism Links Tumor Suppression to the Epigenetic Landscape

Intermediary metabolism provides substrates that shape epigenetic status, but whether this interaction can be responsible for oncogenesis is largely unknown. In a recent issue of Nature, Kottakis et al. (2016) now show that the common tumor suppressor gene LKB1 can function by mediating this connection through an LKB1/AMPK/mTOR signaling axis.
Microfluidic Turbulent Mixers, Time Resolved SAXS and Folding Intermediates of CheY

The process of folding a polypeptide chain from an unstructured random coil in denaturant to a functional 3 dimensional form is a rapid process that is perhaps biased very early on during the initial steps, even as the solvent conditions are transitioning from favoring denaturation to favoring folding. Access to kinetics in the microseconds to milliseconds time scale by multiple spectroscopic probes is crucial to interpreting these initial steps of folding. Time resolved small angle X-ray scattering (trSAXS) is a powerful technique for studying 3 dimensional shapes of proteins as they transition from unfolded to native structures. By interfacing microfluidic devices with powerful x-ray sources we can access timescales in the sub-hundred microseconds range. Structural details determined using trSAXS of the kinetic refolding process of CheY reveal a burst phase in the sub 50-microsecond time-scale, that is perhaps structured around a local-in-sequence cluster of hydrophobic residues.
Camera trap arrays improve detection probability of wildlife: Investigating study design considerations using an empirical dataset.

Camera trapping is a standard tool in ecological research and wildlife conservation. Study designs, particularly for small-bodied or cryptic wildlife species often attempt to boost low detection probabilities by using non-random camera placement or baited cameras, which may bias data, or incorrectly estimate detection and occupancy. We investigated the ability of non-baited, multi-camera arrays to increase detection probabilities of wildlife. Study design components were evaluated for their influence on wildlife detectability by iteratively parsing an empirical dataset (1) by different sizes of camera arrays deployed (1–10 cameras), and (2) by total season length (1–365 days). Four species from our dataset that represented a range of body sizes and differing degrees of presumed detectability based on life history traits were investigated: white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), bobcat (Lynx rufus), raccoon (Procyon lotor), and Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana). For all species, increasing from a single camera to a multi-camera array significantly improved detection probability across the range of season lengths and number of study sites evaluated. The use of a two camera array increased survey detection an average of 80% (range 40–128%) from the detection probability of a single camera across the four species. Species that were detected infrequently benefited most from a multiple-camera array, where the addition of up to eight cameras produced significant increases in detectability. However, for species detected at high frequencies, single cameras produced a season-long (i.e, the length of time over which cameras are deployed and actively monitored) detectability greater than 0.75. These results highlight the need for researchers to be critical about camera trap study designs based on their intended target species, as detectability for each focal species responded differently to array size and season length. We suggest that researchers a priori identify target species for which inference will be made, and then design camera trapping studies around the most difficult to detect of those species.
Next-Generation CDK2/9 Inhibitors and Anaphase Catastrophe in Lung Cancer.

Background The first generation CDK2/7/9 inhibitor seliciclib (CYC202) causes multipolar anaphase and apoptosis in lung cancer cells with supernumerary centrosomes (known as anaphase catastrophe). We investigated a new and potent CDK2/9 inhibitor, CCT68127 (Cyclacel). Methods CCT68127 was studied in lung cancer cells (three murine and five human) and control murine pulmonary epithelial and human immortalized bronchial epithelial cells. Robotic CCT68127 cell-based proliferation screens were used. Cells undergoing multipolar anaphase and inhibited centrosome clustering were scored. Reverse phase protein arrays (RPPAs) assessed CCT68127 effects on signaling pathways. The function of PEA15, a growth regulator highlighted by RPPAs, was analyzed. Syngeneic murine lung cancer xenografts (n = 4/group) determined CCT68127 effects on tumorigenicity and circulating tumor cell levels. All statistical tests were two-sided. Results CCT68127 inhibited growth up to 88.5% (SD = 6.4%, P < .003) at 1 μM, induced apoptosis up to 42.6% (SD = 5.5%, P < .001) at 2 μM, and caused G1 or G2/M arrest in lung cancer cells with minimal effects on control cells (growth inhibition at 1 μM: 10.6%, SD = 3.6%, P = .32; apoptosis at 2 μM: 8.2%, SD = 1.0%, P = .22). A robotic screen found that lung cancer cells with KRAS mutation were particularly sensitive to CCT68127 ( P = .02 for IC 50 ). CCT68127 inhibited supernumerary centrosome clustering and caused anaphase catastrophe by 14.1% (SD = 3.6%, P < .009 at 1 μM). CCT68127 reduced PEA15 phosphorylation by 70% (SD = 3.0%, P = .003). The gain of PEA15 expression antagonized and its loss enhanced CCT68127-mediated growth inhibition. CCT68127 reduced lung cancer growth in vivo ( P < .001) and circulating tumor cells ( P = .004). Findings were confirmed with another CDK2/9 inhibitor, CYC065. Conclusions Next-generation CDK2/9 inhibition elicits marked antineoplastic effects in lung cancer via anaphase catastrophe and reduced PEA15 phosphorylation.
Safety and efficacy of laryngeal mask airway ventilation in obese patients with airway stenosis.

Objective To assess the efficacy of laryngeal mask airway (LMA) ventilation in obese patients with airway stenosis. Study Design A retrospective chart review was conducted in an academic practice in a tertiary care center. Methods We retrospectively reviewed our experience using LMA ventilation in obese patients with airway stenosis. Lowest intraoperative O2 saturation and maximum-end tidal carbon dioxide (CO2) levels were recorded. Complications including intubation, unplanned admission, re-admission, postoperative pain, dysphonia, oral trauma, pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, and tracheostomy were recorded. Results Fourteen bronchoscopies with laser incisions and dilation were performed in patients with airway stenosis exclusively using LMA ventilation. Thirteen of 14 procedures were performed on patients who had body mass index (BMI) > 30 kg/m2. Mean BMI was noted to be 38 kg/m2 (range 25–54). All patients underwent successful laser incisions and dilation via LMA anesthesia without major or minor adverse events. The mean lowest O2 saturation level was noted to be 92%; the mean highest CO2 level was noted to be 56 mm Hg; and no patients required endotracheal intubation. Conclusion In this small series of obese patients with airway stenosis, LMA anesthesia was effectively used without major or minor complications. Level of Evidence 4. Laryngoscope, 2017
At the Crossroads between Cell Polarity and Adhesion in Neocortical Development

In this issue of Developmental Cell, Jossin et al. (2017) show that the tumor suppressor protein Lgl1 interacts with N-cadherin to stabilize apical junctions in brain stem cells. Neural progenitors lacking Lgl1 had decreased N-cadherin internalization and abnormal cell junctions, generating an ectopic neuronal layer that resembles cerebral cortex abnormalities in humans.
Steller’s jays assess and communicate about predator risk using detection cues and identity

Lay Summary Not all predators are created equal. Here we show that Steller’s jays assess the level of risk a predator poses by the interaction between 4 different predator species and whether they heard or saw the predators. Sharp-shinned hawks are threatening regardless of being seen or heard where northern goshawks are more threatening if seen than heard. Furthermore, Steller’s jays alter their alarm calls in subtle ways in response to these differences.
Bemisia tabaci MED (Q biotype) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) in Florida is on the Move to Residential Landscapes and May Impact Open-Field Agriculture

For the first time in the United States, Bemisia tabaci MED (Q biotype of B. tabaci [Gennadius]; Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) was detected outside of greenhouse or nursery environments when it was collected from 10 residential landscape and 2 open field environments in Florida. Bemisia tabaci MED was also detected in 8 wholesale nurseries from 4 counties and 17 retail nurseries from 8 counties in Florida. Hibiscus was the host plant driver for B. tabaci MED whitefly infestations in retail and wholesale nurseries and in Florida residential landscapes. One mint sample from a retail nursery contained a single New World whitefly and represents the first detection of New World B. tabaci in Florida since it was displaced by B. tabaci Middle Eastern Asia Minor 1 in the mid-1980s.
Compulsive Buying Disorder

Abstract This chapter explores compulsive buying disorder (CBD) both as a unique impulsive control disorder and as a disorder that shares features with other compulsive and impulsive disorders. The chapter begins with a description of CBD derived from the existing literature, followed by a section on the epidemiology of CBD, with a focus on the distribution of CBD across different industrialized nations, genders, ages, and socioeconomic statuses. The chapter continues with a discussion of the proposed diagnostic criteria for CBD and an analysis of the disorder’s presenting clinical characteristics. This section also reviews the clinically designed diagnostic scales for CBD as well as the most common comorbidities seen with CBD: common Axis I and Axis II disorders, particularly mood and anxiety disorders. The pathophysiology of CBD is then discussed, with a brief exploration of the possible hereditary nature of the disorder. The chapter concludes with a section on treatment and management methods for CBD, both psychological and pharmacological, as well as suggestions for future research needed to further the understanding and treatment of CBD.
The zero forcing polynomial of a graph

Abstract Zero forcing is an iterative graph coloring process, where given a set of initially colored vertices, a colored vertex with a single uncolored neighbor causes that neighbor to become colored. A zero forcing set is a set of initially colored vertices which causes the entire graph to eventually become colored. In this paper, we study the counting problem associated with zero forcing. We introduce the zero forcing polynomial of a graph G of order n as the polynomial Z ( G ; x ) = ∑ i = 1 n z ( G ; i ) x i , where z ( G ; i ) is the number of zero forcing sets of G of size i . We characterize the extremal coefficients of Z ( G ; x ) , derive closed form expressions for the zero forcing polynomials of several families of graphs, and explore various structural properties of Z ( G ; x ) , including multiplicativity, unimodality, and uniqueness.
Functional roles of Kv1-mediated currents in genetically identified subtypes of pyramidal neurons in layer 5 of mouse somatosensory cortex

In two types of genetically identified layer 5 pyramidal neurons, α-dendrotoxin blocked approximately all of the putative Kv1 current (on average). We used outside-out macropatches and whole cell r...
Transforming Science Education by Expanding Teacher and Student Collaboration

Frequently policymakers and administrators inform teachers and students about what and how to teach and learn science and assume that curricula are enacted as stipulated. Not surprisingly, enacted curricula are resilient, do not change easily, and are radically dependent on continuously changing structures associated with material, symbolic, and social resources. In this chapter I advocate collaborative approaches to teaching and learning in which teachers and students undertake research on enacted curricula, reflect on what they learn from research, and, as desirable, design changes to teaching and learning roles and contexts. Dialogic inquiry and mindfulness are presented as specific examples of heuristics being used as interventions to improve learning environments to accord with stipulated values, policies, research, and theories.
Onsets of the Electron-Hole-Droplet Luminescence in Si

We report measurements of the laser excitation thresholds for the onset of electron-hole-droplet luminescence in Si in the temperature range 2.5-19.3 K. The results are consistent with finite-lifetime nucleation theory. Fits to the data determine a surface tension < or approx. = 1.1 x 10/sup -2/ erg/cm/sup 2/ and a sticking fraction < or approx. = 5%.
Impact Exercise for Optimal Bone Health in Growing Children: An Evidence-Based Approach to Exercise Prescription

The nature of bone to adapt to mechanical loading is well accepted. Bone responds to increased mechanical strain by growing in size, gaining strength, increasing mineral content, and favorably altering bone structure. Physical activity imposes substantial mechanical strain through muscle and gravitational forces. Thus it follows that bone should grow favorably in its mass and structure to accommodate increased loads from physical activity. Data support that children who are physically active have enhanced bone mass and bone structure compared to less active peers. Physical activities shown to have the greatest osteogenic effects in the growing skeleton are those that have a significant “impact factor.” Impact activities are characterized by both the speed of loading and the magnitude of the load applied to bone. Greater forces, delivered quickly, through activities such as jumping appear to convey the greatest benefits to bone mass and size during growth, although resistance training may also elicit favorable development. Exercise interventions utilizing impact exercises report skeletal benefits when children achieve ground reaction forces three to eight times their body weight. Research thus far indicates that at least 7 months of impact exercise is essential to induce a measurable change in bone mass in children. For optimal bone growth, children should perform impact activities 3 days per week for 10–20 min; however, if they are to rely on typical playground activity it seems that 30–40 min of vigorous activities are necessary. Exercise performed during time of growth induces lifelong benefits suggesting there is a “window of opportunity” during pre- or early pubertal years to maximize skeletal growth and reap enduring benefits that will lower risk of fracture and osteoporosis during life as an adult. This chapter will explore the influence of impact exercise during growth on bone mass accrual and structure; present the available data regarding optimal exercise prescription, including timing and dose; and explore the potential for physical activity undertaken during childhood to mediate osteoporosis later in life.
The discursive construction of adaptation subjects via the Ada Sea Defense System in the Volta River Delta of Ghana

As climate adaptation gains international prominence as one means for addressing climate change, it remains critical that just and equitable outcomes are maintained as adaptation technologies are d...
The Infrared Spectrograph on the Spitzer Space Telescope

The Infrared Spectrograph (IRS) is one of three science instruments on the Spitzer Space Telescope. The IRS comprises four separate spectrograph modules covering the wavelength range from 5.3 to 38micron with spectral resolutions, R \~90 and 600, and it was optimized to take full advantage of the very low background in the space environment. The IRS is performing at or better than the pre-launch predictions. An autonomous target acquisition capability enables the IRS to locate the mid-infrared centroid of a source, providing the information so that the spacecraft can accurately offset that centroid to a selected slit. This feature is particularly useful when taking spectra of sources with poorly known coordinates. An automated data reduction pipeline has been developed at the Spitzer Science Center.
Data-Driven Distributionally Robust Appointment Scheduling over Wasserstein Balls

We study a single-server appointment scheduling problem with a fixed sequence of appointments, for which we must determine the arrival time for each appointment. We specifically examine two stochastic models. In the first model, we assume that all appointees show up at the scheduled arrival times yet their service durations are random. In the second model, we assume that appointees have random no-show behaviors and their service durations are random given that they show up at the appointments. In both models, we assume that the probability distribution of the uncertain parameters is unknown but can be partially observed via a set of historical data, which we view as independent samples drawn from the unknown distribution. In view of the distributional ambiguity, we propose a data-driven distributionally robust optimization (DRO) approach to determine an appointment schedule such that the worst-case (i.e., maximum) expectation of the system total cost is minimized. A key feature of this approach is that the optimal value and the set of optimal schedules thus obtained provably converge to those of the true model, i.e., the stochastic appointment scheduling model with regard to the true probability distribution of the uncertain parameters. While our DRO models are computationally intractable in general, we reformulate them to copositive programs, which are amenable to tractable semidefinite programming problems with high-quality approximations. Furthermore, under some mild conditions, we recast these models as polynomial-sized linear programs. Through an extensive numerical study, we demonstrate that our approach yields better out-of-sample performance than two state-of-the-art methods.
Advancing the theory and practice of system evaluation: a case study in geovisual analytics of social media

This paper advances the state-of-the-art in methodology design for empirical evaluation of (geo)visual analytics software. Specifically, we describe the process of design, development and applicati...
Using panel VAR to analyze international knowledge spillovers

Technology diffusion often plays a critical role in models of trade and economic growth. Most existing empirical tests for international technology spillovers suggest some role for spillovers in explaining productivity growth. It has been relatively difficult, however, to identify separate roles for the direct and indirect channels of knowledge spillovers. The influence of these channels is often confounded owing to the focus on total‐factor productivity (TFP) and R&D spending within a cross‐section or panel data setting. This paper employs an alternative methodology to investigate the role of direct knowledge spillovers. Using citation‐weighted domestic patents, citation‐weighted foreign patents and value added for 14 U.S. manufacturing industries over the period 1977 to 2004 a panel VAR methodology is employed to investigate the dynamic role of direct and indirect knowledge spillovers. Evidence for the role of the direct knowledge spillovers channel is found—an increase in citation‐weighted patents abroad directly increases the measure of domestic citation‐weighted patents, after accounting for the influence of productivity/value added. The role of foreign innovative activity, however, is small relative to the role of U.S. innovative activity in explaining the dynamics of industry value added.
Correct modeling results are needed to inform mission planning and shield design.

Abstract There are a large number of modeling results in the literature focused on astronaut protection from solar particle events (SPE) over a broad range of mission architectures. These studies form the basis for shield design and mission planning strategies currently used by NASA. To optimize SPE protection or affect decision making criteria for these missions, one must have an accurate assessment of exposure levels at one or more locations within a vehicle or habitat concept. Such assessments require some definition for the SPE being considered, a description of the mass shielding for the vehicle or habitat, and a radiation transport model to describe how the radiation field is modified as it propagates through shielding. It is well known that in these circumstances, astronaut exposure estimates are highly sensitive to the choice of SPE and shielding geometry. A recent study by El-Jaby et al. analyzed historical SPE with spherical aluminum shielding and two radiation transport codes (MCNPX and OLTARIS). Surprisingly large differences between the MCNPX and OLTARIS results were reported and generally attributed to differing transport methodologies, nuclear physics models, boundary condition setup, and detector regions. In this commentary, we show that the discrepancy between the MCNPX and OLTARIS results is attributable to the use of a volume flux tally defined over the entirety of the habitable volume (29 m3) in the MCNPX simulations. Such definitions are used to reduce computational burden in Monte Carlo simulations but can lead to misleading results in certain circumstances (as in this case). When consistent detector regions are defined, OLTARIS results are found to be in good agreement with Monte Carlo simulation codes and the three dimensional deterministic code, 3DHZETRN.
Prospective elementary teachers' experiences with and perspectives on grouping by ability in mathematics

Within-class ability grouping (WCAG) is widely used in elementary mathematics instruction in the United States, yet it has drawn criticism on the grounds that it can inequitably limit the learning opportunities of some students, not least because of its connection to between-class ability grouping (BCAG) that is more common in middle or secondary schooling. Meanwhile, some high achieving countries use relatively little ability grouping in elementary school in comparison to the United States. In this paper, we draw on qualitative data from a series of assignments in four sections of an elementary mathematics methods course in the beginning teacher education programme at a United States university. These assignments were designed to explore the potential of using preservice teachers' (PSTs') memories of and experiences with ability grouping in their own schooling to support critical reflection about the possible negative consequences of within-class ability grouping practices. We found that while many PSTs reported negative personal experiences with ability grouping in mathematics, they often remained uncritical when reflecting on the use of ability grouping in the elementary classes they visited as part of their teacher education programme.
Ketamine Safety and Use in the Emergency Department for Pain and Agitation/Delirium: A Health System Experience.

Author(s): Mo, Hanjie; Campbell, Matthew J.; Fertel, Baruch S.; Lam, Simon W.; Wells, Elizabeth J.; Casserly, Elizabeth; Meldon, Stephen W. | Abstract: Introduction: Two protocols were developed to guide the use of subdissociative dose ketamine (SDDK) for analgesia and dissociative sedation ketamine for severe agitation/excited delirium in the emergency department (ED). We sought to evaluate the safety of these protocols implemented in 18 EDs within a large health system.Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review to evaluate all adult patients who received intravenous (IV) SDDK for analgesia and intramuscular (IM) dissociative sedation ketamine for severe agitation/excited delirium in 12 hospital-based and six freestanding EDs over a one-year period from the protocol implementation. We developed a standardized data collection form and used it to record patient information regarding ketamine use, concomitant medication use, and any comorbidities that could have impacted the incidence of adverse events.Results: Approximately 570,000 ED visits occurred during the study period. SDDK was used in 210 ED encounters, while dissociative sedation ketamine for severe agitation/excited delirium was used in 37 ED encounters. SDDK was used in 83% (15/18) of sites while dissociative sedation ketamine was used in 50% (9/18) of sites. Endotracheal intubation, non-rebreather mask, and nasal cannula ≥ four liters per minute were identified in one, five, and three patients, respectively. Neuropsychiatric adverse events were identified in 4% (9/210) of patients who received SDDK.Conclusion: Patients experienced limited neuropsychiatric adverse events from SDDK. Additionally, dissociative sedation ketamine for severe agitation/excited delirium led to less endotracheal intubation than reported in the prehospital literature. The favorable safety profile of ketamine use in the ED may prompt further increases in usage.
Measuring Fairness in an Unfair World

Computer scientists have made great strides in characterizing different measures of algorithmic fairness, and showing that certain measures of fairness cannot be jointly satisfied. In this paper, I argue that the three most popular families of measures - unconditional independence, target-conditional independence and classification-conditional independence - make assumptions that are unsustainable in the context of an unjust world. I begin by introducing the measures and the implicit idealizations they make about the underlying causal structure of the contexts in which they are deployed. I then discuss how these idealizations fall apart in the context of historical injustice, ongoing unmodeled oppression, and the permissibility of using sensitive attributes to rectify injustice. In the final section, I suggest an alternative framework for measuring fairness in the context of existing injustice: distributive fairness.
Clinical Characteristics, Major Morbidity, and Mortality in Trauma-Related Pediatric Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome.

OBJECTIVES To determine the presence, central characteristics, and impact on major morbidity and mortality of trauma-related pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome. DESIGN Retrospective review of a prospective trauma database. SETTING American College of Surgeons verified level 1 trauma center in an urban setting. PATIENTS Trauma patients age 0 to 18 years old inclusive. INTERVENTIONS None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Of the 7,382 patients presenting within the 10-year study period, 646 met study criteria for inclusion in the analysis. Trauma-related pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome was present in 9% of the analyzed cohort. On univariate analysis and compared with those without, trauma-related pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome occurred more commonly among those with traumatic brain injury (77.2% vs 45.5%; p < 0.001), non-accidental trauma (28.8% vs 10.2%; p < 0.001), and an injury severity score greater than 30 (27.1% vs 3.8%; p 0.001). New or progressive multiple organ dysfunction syndrome was significantly higher in trauma-related pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome patients (86.7% vs 10.4%; p < 0.001) as was mortality (18.3% vs 3.1%; p < 0.001) than in those without. The presence of trauma-related pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome (odds ratio, 6.98; 95% CI, 2.95-16.5; p < 0.001), younger age (odds ratio, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.87-0.99; p = 0.038), and worse injury severity (odds ratio, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.14-1.24; p < 0.001) were all independent statistical predictors of new or progressive multiple organ dysfunction syndrome in this retrospective cohort. Mortality in patients without trauma-related pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome increased with increasing injury severity, whereas mortality in patients with trauma-related pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome was the same regardless of injury severity. On multivariable regression analysis, while age and injury severity were independent statistical predictors of mortality, trauma-related pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome was not (odds ratio, 2.35; 95% CI, 0.88-6.28; p = 0.087). CONCLUSIONS Pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome is present in the pediatric trauma population. Trauma-related pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome is associated with eight times the organ dysfunction and five times the mortality compared with patients without trauma-related pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome, yet research in this area is lacking. Further prospective, mechanistic evaluations are essential to understand why these patients are at risk and how to effectively intervene to improve outcomes.
Differential regulation of alcohol consumption and reward by the transcriptional cofactor LMO4.

Repeated alcohol exposure leads to changes in gene expression that are thought to underlie the transition from moderate to excessive drinking. However, the mechanisms by which these changes are integrated into a maladaptive response that leads to alcohol dependence are not well understood. One mechanism could involve the recruitment of transcriptional co-regulators that bind and modulate the activity of transcription factors. Our results indicate that the transcriptional regulator LMO4 is one such candidate regulator. Lmo4-deficient mice (Lmo4gt/+) consumed significantly more and showed enhanced preference for alcohol in a 24 h intermittent access drinking procedure. shRNA-mediated knockdown of Lmo4 in the nucleus accumbens enhanced alcohol consumption, whereas knockdown in the basolateral amygdala (BLA) decreased alcohol consumption and reduced conditioned place preference for alcohol. To ascertain the molecular mechanisms that underlie these contrasting phenotypes, we carried out unbiased transcriptome profiling of these two brain regions in wild type and Lmo4gt/+ mice. Our results revealed that the transcriptional targets of LMO4 are vastly different between the two brain regions, which may explain the divergent phenotypes observed upon Lmo4 knockdown. Bioinformatic analyses revealed that Oprk1 and genes related to the extracellular matrix (ECM) are important transcriptional targets of LMO4 in the BLA. Chromatin immunoprecipitation revealed that LMO4 bound Oprk1 promoter elements. Consistent with these results, disruption of the ECM or infusion of norbinaltorphimine, a selective kappa opioid receptor antagonist, in the BLA reduced alcohol consumption. Hence our results indicate that an LMO4-regulated transcriptional network regulates alcohol consumption in the BLA.
A Characterization of Young Adults' Nonmarital Sexual Relationships: Findings from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health

The relational patterns and behaviors that are experienced during adolescence and young adulthood are influential for reproductive health outcomes and set the stage for future family formation choices and behaviors. In order to better understand the extent to which the relational context influences behavior within relationships, it is imperative that researchers first explore these relationships in a more comprehensive manner than has been done previously. Using the retrospective sexual relationship histories of young adults from the most recent wave (2001-2002) of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health), this paper provides a detailed description of young adults’ nonmarital sexual relationships and explores young adults’ relationship histories. Findings suggest that the characteristics of the nonmarital sexual unions that are formed during the early life course are quite diverse. The type of relationship (defined as cohabiting, exclusively dating, frequently but not exclusively dating, dating once in a while, and having sex only) and other features of these sexual relationships (e.g., duration, age difference between partners) differ depending on the gender, race/ethnicity, and age of the young adult. Additionally, some patterns of associations across racial/ethnic groups and age categories differ for women and men. Moreover, the features of these sexual relationships vary across the different relationship types. Finally, a number of individual-level sociodemographic characteristics are associated with having experienced certain types of relationship histories. In particular, there are enduring effects of family background and religious denomination during adolescence that differ for women and men.
Binder-free torrefied biomass pellets: significance of torrefaction temperature and pelletization parameters by multivariate analysis

Torrefaction is a promising technology to improve fuel properties of biomass. However, torrefied char does not show densified energy content compared with coal and typically requires densification such as pelletization. Several key parameters including pelletization and torrefaction conditions were investigated in order to determine the effects on energy density of torrefied char pellets. In this study, multivariate analyses were performed using three independent variables, torrefaction temperature, pelletization temperature, and pelletization pressure; and five dependent variables: mass density, durability, volume expansion, higher heating value (HHV), and energy density (ED). The variation and correlation of the dependent variables were evaluated using principal component analysis (PCA). Additionally, multivariate linear regression was performed to correlate independent variables and dependent variable responses using an adjusted sum of squares method and a two-sided, 90% confidence interval for the mean response; the model was fitted with statistically significant linear, quadratic, and interaction terms. The statistical analysis showed that all independent parameters are statistically significant for ED with the largest model variation from experimental data being 1.44%. Response curve of the regression analysis showed that mass density, HHV, and energy density model have the highest output predictability with higher R2 values of 95.3%, 98.1%, and 74.1%, respectively.
Thyroid disease and laboratory assessment

Abstract The thyroid gland is one of the largest endocrine glands in the human body consisting of 2 lateral lobes connected by the isthmus. Thyroid follicles are the functional units of the thyroid gland and contain thyroglobulin (Tg). It also contains parafollicular C cells, which secrete calcitonin. The thyroid gland secretes 2 major hormones, thyroxine (T4) and 3,5,3'- triiodothyronine (T3), which are required for the normal operation of many physiologic processes affecting virtually every organ system in the body. Regulation of thyroid hormone secretion is controlled tightly by the hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid axis via thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), which is secreted from the anterior pituitary gland in response to thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) release from the hypothalamus. There is a log-linear relationship between TSH and Free T4 in individuals who are euthyroid. The thyroid hormones affect several aspects of metabolism, including the basal metabolic rate, cellular oxidation, carbohydrate metabolism, etc. A number of signs and symptoms are well-established manifestations of thyroid dysfunction and there are several tests to distinguish thyroid disease from nonthyroidal causes of abnormal thyroid hormone levels and these are reviewed in this chapter.
Perioperative Optimization of Senior Health in Spine Surgery: Impact on Postoperative Delirium

BACKGROUND Delirium is a common postoperative complication in geriatric patients, especially in those with underlying risk factors. Multicomponent nonpharmacologic interventions are effective in preventing delirium, however, implementation of these measures is variable in perioperative care. The aim of our study was to assess the impact of our Perioperative Optimization of Senior Health Program (UTSW POSH) on postoperative delirium in patients undergoing elective spine surgery. STUDY DESIGN The UTSW POSH program is an interdisciplinary perioperative initiative involving geriatrics, surgery, and anesthesiology to improve care for high-risk geriatric patients undergoing elective spine surgery. Preoperatively, enrolled patients (n = 147) were referred for a geriatric assessment and optimization for surgery. Postoperatively, patients were co-managed by the primary surgical team and the geriatrics consult service. UTSW POSH patients were retrospectively compared to a matched historical control group (n = 177) treated with usual care. Main outcomes included postoperative delirium and provider recognition of delirium. RESULTS UTSW POSH patients were significantly older (75.5 vs 71.5 years; P < .001), had more comorbidities (8.02 vs 6.58; P < .001), and were more likely to undergo pelvic fixation (36.1% vs 17.5%; P < .001). The incidence of postoperative delirium was lower in the UTSW POSH group compared to historical controls, although not statistically significant (11.6% vs 19.2%; P = .065). Delirium was significantly lower in patients who underwent complex spine surgery (≥4 levels of vertebral fusion; N = 106) in the UTSW POSH group (11.7% vs 28.9%, P = .03). There was a threefold increase in the recognition of postoperative delirium by providers after program implementation, (76.5% vs 23.5%; P = .001). CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that interdisciplinary care for high-risk geriatric patients undergoing elective spine surgery may reduce the incidence of postoperative delirium and increase provider recognition of delirium. The benefit may be greater for those undergoing larger procedures.
Deep Learning to Identify Transcription Start Sites from CAGE Data

Gene transcription start site (TSS) identification is important to understanding transcriptional gene regulation. Cap Analysis Gene Expression (CAGE) experiments have recently become common practice for direct measurement of TSSs. Currently, CAGE data available in public databases created unprecedented opportunities to study gene transcriptional initiation mechanisms under various cellular conditions. However, due to potential transcriptional noises inherent in CAGE data, in-silico methods are required to identify bonafide TSSs from noises further. Here we present a computational approach dlCAGE, an end-to-end deep neural network to identify TSSs from CAGE data. dlCAGE incorporate de-novo DNA regulatory motif features discovered by DeepBind model architecture, as well as existing sequence and structural features. Testing results of dlCAGE in several cell lines in comparison with current state-of-the-art approaches showed its superior performance and promise in TSS identification from CAGE experiments.
Robenidine Analogues Are Potent Antimalarials in Drug-Resistant Plasmodium falciparum

Robenidine is a veterinary drug used in the poultry industry to treat coccidiosis caused by parasites in the Eimeria genus. Though this compound and related aminoguanidines have recently been studied in other pathogens, the chemotype has not been systematically explored to optimize antimalarial activity despite the close genetic relationship between Eimeria and Plasmodium (both are members of the Apicomplexa phylum of unicellular, spore-forming parasites). In this study, a series of aminoguanidine robenidine analogues was prepared and tested in vitro against Plasmodium falciparum, including multidrug-resistant strains. Selected compounds were further evaluated in vivo against murine Plasmodium yoelii in mice. Iterative structure-activity relationship studies led to the discovery of 1, an aminoguanidine with excellent activity against drug-resistant malaria in vitro and impressive in vivo efficacy with an ED50 value of 0.25 mg/kg/day in a standard 4-day test.
Successful Resolution of Chronic Testicular Pain With an Impairment-Based Treatment Program: A Case Study With One-Year Follow-Up.

Chronic testicular pain is a condition commonly experienced by males. Potential causes of testicular pain can be pathology localized within the testicle or referred pain from surrounding tissues or spinal conditions. The diagnostic differential is extensive and can be seen as a diagnosis of exclusion after structural disorders specific to the testicle are ruled out. In approximately 50% of the cases, the cause of pain is undetermined. Patients with testicular and inguinal pain may undergo extensive workup that overlooks potential neuropathic and musculoskeletal causes remote to the testicle. This case study describes the application of a conservative treatment program targeting presumptive chronic genitofemoral and/or ilioinguinal nerve entrapment along the course of the inguinal canal for the treatment of chronic testicular pain. By combining sacroiliac joint osteopathic manipulation, iliopsoas stretching, and soft tissue mobilization utilizing a vacuum suction cup, the patient was symptom-free on the fourth visit after suffering from testicular pain for a year. At a one-year follow-up, the patient remains pain-free.