cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
New Report Predicts Shortage of Geoscientists in the Workforce

By the end of the next decade, there may be a shortage of 135,000 geoscientists in the workforce, according to a report issued by the American Geosciences Institute on 29 May. This shortage is predicted despite rising enrollment in the geosciences and rising salaries for students graduating with bachelor's, master's, and doctorate degrees.
Isolation, Characterization, and U(VI)-Reducing Potential of a Facultatively Anaerobic, Acid-Resistant Bacterium from Low-pH, Nitrate- and U(VI)-Contaminated Subsurface Sediment and Description of Salmonella subterranea sp. nov.

A facultatively anaerobic, acid-resistant bacterium, designated strain FRCl, was isolated from a low-pH, nitrate- and U(VI)-contaminated subsurface sediment at site FW-024 at the Natural and Accelerated Bioremediation Research Field Research Center in Oak Ridge, Tenn. Strain FRCl was enriched at pH 4.5 in minimal medium with nitrate as the electron acceptor, hydrogen as the electron donor, and acetate as the carbon source. Clones with 16S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) sequences identical to the sequence of strain FRCl were also detected in a U(VI)-reducing enrichment culture derived from the same sediment. Cells of strain FRCl were gram-negative motile regular rods 2.0 to 3.4 μm long and 0.7 to 0.9 μm in diameter. Strain FRCl was positive for indole production, by the methyl red test, and for ornithine decarboxylase; it was negative by the Voges-Proskauer test (for acetylmethylcarbinol production), for urea hydrolysis, for arginine dihydrolase, for lysine decarboxylase, for phenylalanine deaminase, for H2S production, and for gelatin hydrolysis. Strain FRCl was capable of using O2, NO3−, S2O32−, fumarate, and malate as terminal electron acceptors and of reducing U(VI) in the cell suspension. Analysis of the 16S rDNA sequence of the isolate indicated that this strain was 96.4% similar to Salmonella bongori and 96.3% similar to Enterobacter cloacae. Physiological and phylogenetic analyses suggested that strain FRCl belongs to the genus Salmonella and represents a new species, Salmonella subterranea sp. nov.
Microbial co-habitation and lateral gene transfer: what transposases can tell us

Background Determining the habitat range for various microbes is not a simple, straightforward matter, as habitats interlace, microbes move between habitats, and microbial communities change over time. In this study, we explore an approach using the history of lateral gene transfer recorded in microbial genomes to begin to answer two key questions: where have you been and who have you been with?
Systematic Alterations of the Apparent Centers of Lines.

Predictable stimulus-bound alterations in the apparent centers of lines were used to discriminate behavioral differences in bisection. 2 dimensions of individual differences were demonstrated in bi...
A dual-mode programmable distributed amplifier/mixer

A dual-mode field programmable RF amplifier / mixer is presented. Transistor switches, low loss CPW lines and RF transistors are combined in a 3-stage distributed topology which can operate as either a distributed amplifier or a distributed mixer. Functional reconfigurability is achieved using one bit programming without changing the signal path. The programmable module in its distributed amplifier mode provides a gain of 8dB in a 3–8 GHz bandwidth. When switched to the distributed mixer mode, it shows a measured average conversion gain of 4dB in a 1–16GHz bandwidth. This circuit is fabricated in a standard 130nm CMOS technology and occupies 4 mm×1.2 mm chip area.
Advanced residual ridge resorption: surgical management.

With the introduction of osseointegration by Dr P.-I. Branemark, reconstruction of advanced residual ridge resorption has become a successful procedure in patients for whom previous methods had been disappointing. For reconstruction of the maxillae an onlay, nasal and/or antral inlay, labial and/or buccal onlay, or interpositional bone graft with osseointegrated implants used to provide support for both the graft and the prosthesis can be used. The maxillary and mandibular onlay bone grafts and the nasal and/or antral inlay bone grafts are discussed.
Dietary and Policy Priorities for Cardiovascular Disease, Diabetes, and Obesity: A Comprehensive Review

Suboptimal nutrition is a leading cause of poor health. Nutrition and policy science have advanced rapidly, creating confusion yet also providing powerful opportunities to reduce the adverse health and economic impacts of poor diets. This review considers the history, new evidence, controversies, and corresponding lessons for modern dietary and policy priorities for cardiovascular diseases, obesity, and diabetes mellitus. Major identified themes include the importance of evaluating the full diversity of diet-related risk pathways, not only blood lipids or obesity; focusing on foods and overall diet patterns, rather than single isolated nutrients; recognizing the complex influences of different foods on long-term weight regulation, rather than simply counting calories; and characterizing and implementing evidence-based strategies, including policy approaches, for lifestyle change. Evidence-informed dietary priorities include increased fruits, nonstarchy vegetables, nuts, legumes, fish, vegetable oils, yogurt, and minimally processed whole grains; and fewer red meats, processed (eg, sodium-preserved) meats, and foods rich in refined grains, starch, added sugars, salt, and trans fat. More investigation is needed on the cardiometabolic effects of phenolics, dairy fat, probiotics, fermentation, coffee, tea, cocoa, eggs, specific vegetable and tropical oils, vitamin D, individual fatty acids, and diet-microbiome interactions. Little evidence to date supports the cardiometabolic relevance of other popular priorities: eg, local, organic, grass-fed, farmed/wild, or non-genetically modified. Evidence-based personalized nutrition appears to depend more on nongenetic characteristics (eg, physical activity, abdominal adiposity, gender, socioeconomic status, culture) than genetic factors. Food choices must be strongly supported by clinical behavior change efforts, health systems reforms, novel technologies, and robust policy strategies targeting economic incentives, schools and workplaces, neighborhood environments, and the food system. Scientific advances provide crucial new insights on optimal targets and best practices to reduce the burdens of diet-related cardiometabolic diseases.
Bilateral talar osteochondritis dissecans with lax ankle ligaments. Report of a case.

A patient with bilateral talar osteochondritis dissecans associated with lax lateral ankle ligaments has been presented. The mechanism of production of the lesion in this case can be easily inferred by stress inversion roentgenograms, and it is suggested that stress inversion ankle roentgenograms be considered when confronted by talar osteochondritis dissecans.
Antidepressant medication use and glycaemic control in co-morbid type 2 diabetes and depression

OBJECTIVE Depression is prevalent in diabetes and is associated with increased risks of hyperglycaemia, morbidity and mortality. The effect of antidepressant medication (ADM) on glycaemic control is uncertain owing to a paucity of relevant data. We sought to determine whether the use of ADM is associated with glycaemic control in depressed patients with type 2 diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS A retrospective cohort study (n = 1399) was conducted using electronic medical record registry data of ambulatory primary care visits from 2008 to 2013. Depression and type 2 diabetes were identified from ICD-9-CM codes; ADM use was determined from prescription orders; and glycaemic control was determined from measures of glycated haemoglobin (A1c). Good glycaemic control was defined as A1c < 7.0% (53 mmol/mol). Generalized estimating equations were used to determine the effect of depression and ADM use on glycaemic control. RESULTS Good glycaemic control was achieved by 50.9% of depressed subjects receiving ADM versus 34.6% of depressed subjects without ADM. After adjusting for covariates, depressed patients receiving ADM were twice as likely as those not receiving ADM to achieve good glycaemic control (odds ratio = 1.95; 95% confidence interval: 1.02-3.71). CONCLUSIONS In this retrospective cohort study of a large sample of primary care patients with type 2 diabetes, ADM use was associated with improved glycaemic control.
Pediatric Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Practical Imaging Approach.

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this article is to review some of the common indications for pediatric musculoskeletal ultrasound examination, with emphasis given to imaging technique, normal anatomy, and the spectrum of pathologic findings seen in the pediatric population. CONCLUSION. Ultrasound is an essential first-line tool in pediatric musculoskeletal imaging. It aids in determining which patients may benefit from further imaging, including radiography, CT, and MRI.
Starch Gel Electrophoresis of Rat Hypophysis in Relation to Prolactin Activity.

SummaryAs revealed by starch gel electrophoresis of hypophyseal suspensions, a slowly-moving protein band (A) was eliminated by combined ovariectomy, thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy. It was not restored by estrogen therapy. These operations similarly reduced the prominence of a rapidly moving band (J) which was restored by estrogen therapy. Prolactin activity was concentrated in band J and the adjacent portion (area 6) of the column.
The Effects of the Number of Maggots per Host on Length of Development, Puparial Weight, and Adult Emergence of Eucelatoria sp.

Developmental time for Eucelatoria sp. (Tachinidae) in the host Heliothis virescens decreased from 319 to 262 h as the number of puparia/host increased from 1–17. Larval and pupal developmental periods decreased from 116 to 71 h and 203 to 180 h, respectively, as the hosts became more heavily parasitized. Average puparial weight decreased from 27.2 to 9.2 mg. Viable adults emerged from 90.7% of the puparia in all groups. As the density of maggots/host increased, the percent males increased and the percent females decreased significantly.
Prevention and Treatment of Malaria and the Medical Cost

Objective To study the situation of the prevention and treatment of malaria in Nanhui district of Shanghai through analyzing the medical cost of malaria patients. Method Individual questionnaire and medical cost of malaria patients in Nanhui district were analyzed. Results In the review of the medical cost of 17 recent cases in Naihui district,70.59% of the medical cost was not reasonable. This revealed that the sense of prevention of malaria was indifferent. The medical staff was lack of basic knowledge and techniques for the diagnosis and treatment of malaria. It was thus cost the abnormal increase in the medical expenses for treating malaria and would cause troubles in prevent and treatment of the disease in the future.Conclusion Although it was announced malaria was eradicated in Shanghai district, the medical staff should be trained and the sense of preventing the disease should be aroused in the general population in order to further prevent and control the disease.
Effect of pressurization technology on steel-making and solidification of high-grade special steels

Presently,the study of pressurization technology in steel- making and solidification of high- grade special steels mainly focuses on the N-alloyed stainless steels,especially for high-nitrogen steels. This article reviewed the role of pressurization technology in steel- making and solidification,such as increasing the solubility of volatile elements(N,Ca,Mg,et al.) and improving solidification structure. In this article,experiments on N-alloyed stainless steel 22Cr-21Ni-7.5Mo-0.6N and thermodynamic computing software Thermo-Calc were combined to analyze the influence of pressure on liquid-solid phase transformation. It showed that the solidus and liquidus temperature were increased by 6.60 and 5.98 K under 100 MPa compared with those under 0.1 MPa and austenite region was expanded. Pressurization also increased driving force of liquid-solid phase transformation,decreased critical nucleation radius,accelerated nucleation rate and further refined solidification structure. Along with the deepening understanding of the volatile elements,the application prospects of pressurization technology will be very broad and bright in the manufacture of high-grade special steels.
Inhibition of Both Hsp70 Activity and Tau Aggregation in Vitro Best Predicts Tau Lowering Activity of Small Molecules

Three scaffolds with inhibitory activity against the heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) family of chaperones have been found to enhance the degradation of the microtubule associated protein tau in cells, neurons, and brain tissue. This is important because tau accumulation is linked to neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's disease (AD) and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Here, we expanded upon this study to investigate the anti-tau efficacy of additional scaffolds with Hsp70 inhibitory activity. Five of the nine scaffolds tested lowered tau levels, with the rhodacyanine and phenothiazine scaffolds exhibiting the highest potency as previously described. Because phenothiazines also inhibit tau aggregation in vitro, we suspected that this activity might be a more accurate predictor of tau lowering. Interestingly, the rhodacyanines did inhibit in vitro tau aggregation to a similar degree as phenothiazines, correlating well with tau-lowering efficacy in cells and ex vivo slices. Moreover, other Hsp70 inhibitor scaffolds with weaker tau-lowering activity in cells inhibited tau aggregation in vitro, albeit at lower potencies. When we tested six well-characterized tau aggregation inhibitors, we determined that this mechanism of action was not a better predictor of tau-lowering than Hsp70 inhibition. Instead, we found that compounds possessing both activities were the most effective at promoting tau clearance. Moreover, cytotoxicity and PAINS activity are critical factors that can lead to false-positive lead identification. Strategies designed around these principles will likely yield more efficacious tau-lowering compounds.
Excavations of Portions of the San Pedro Acequia (41BX337) and a Search fro the Arocha Acequia, San Antonio, Texas

Upon notification that the upper San Pedro Acequia was known to be below the anticipated parking lot to be constructed for the VIA Metropol itan Transit System, the Texas Historical Commission (THC) contacted the Center for Archaeological Research, The University of Texas at San Antonio, to investigate and document the site. A representative from the THC examined the site and requested minimal excavation and documentation of the San Pedro Acequia in this location. We recommend that this portion of the San Pedro Acequia is eligible fer nomination to the National Register of Historic Places. Following the work on the San Pedro Acequia, the VIA rvletropol itan Transit System contacted the CAR-UTSA to investigate another area prior to construction of a parking lot, where the Arocha Acequia was bel ieved to be buried. The CAR-UTSA field crew found no indication that any trace of the Arocha Acequia survived in the area. We recommend no further work in this area.
Effects of a Au interface on (HgBi)Ba2Ca2Cu3Ox superconductor

Phase pure samples of (HgBi0.2 )Ba2Ca2CU3.1Ox have been synthesized on gold foils. The gold superconductor interface was found to enhance grain growth and alignment as seen by XRD, SEM, and magnetization measurements.
Do Cold Images Cause Cold-Heartedness? The Impact of Visual Stimuli on the Effectiveness of Negative Emotional Charity Appeals

Previous research shows that negative emotional charity appeals tend to be more effective than other emotional charity appeals because they evoke sympathy. However, feelings of loneliness reduce individuals' ability to sympathize with others. Based on grounded cognition research, we propose that exposure to images of cold objects will lead to feelings of physical coldness, which in turn will increase perceptions of loneliness, such that negative emotional charity appeals that are viewed following exposure to cold (versus neutral or warm) images will be less effective at eliciting donations. Findings from four studies provide support for this hypothesis and delineate the link between the presence of certain commonplace visual images in the media and their influence on the effectiveness of embedded negative charity appeals, and identify a new context effect that attenuates the effectiveness of charity appeals.
Determination of Maleic Hydrazide in Pesticide Formulations by Capillary Electrophoresis

A capillary electrophoresis method was developed to quantitate the growth regulator maleic hydrazide (MH) in pesticide formulations. Liquid formulations were dissolved in water, injected into a capillary electrophoresis instrument, and monitored at 220 nm. The running buffer was 10 mM dibasic sodium phosphate at pH 9.0. Total analysis time was 10 min. Four liquid formulations with a guarantee of 30.2 or 30.3% potassium salt of MH were analyzed. Within-day coefficients of variation (CVs) ranged from 3.0 to 7.7%, and between-day CVs ranged from 5.5 to 10.0%. Purity of each MH peak was checked by using a photodiode array detector in the spectrum mode. No interferences were observed.
FKBP5 genotype and early life stress exposure predict neurobehavioral outcomes for preterm infants.

PROBLEM This study evaluated the relationship between stressful early life neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) experiences, genetic variation of a stress response-associated gene (FKBP5), and neurobehavioral outcomes. METHOD The impact of genetic variation and stress experience on neurobehavioral outcomes was examined for 41 preterm infants. Statistical analyses explored the main effects of FKBP5 genotype and NICU stress experience, as well as their interaction on infant neurobehavioral development prior to discharge. RESULTS Statistical analyses demonstrated a relationship between both FKPB5 genotype and stress related to NICU care that were independently associated with neurobehavioral outcomes; indicating a main effect of genotype and a main effect of stress on neurodevelopment. Additionally, we found an interaction between the minor allele genotype and NICU stress potentially associated with less favorable developmental progress at discharge. IMPLICATIONS Evidence of genetic and environmental risk factors for neurodevelopmental impairment suggests the need for improved evidence-based practice initiatives to protect those most vulnerable to the combination of genetic susceptibility to stress and medical fragility.
Synergistic Role of Endothelial ERG and FLI1 in Mediating Pulmonary Vascular Homeostasis

Endothelial cell (EC) activation underlies many vascular diseases, including pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Several members of the E-twenty six (ETS) family of transcription factors are important regulators of the gene network governing endothelial homeostasis, and their aberrant expression is associated with pathological angiogenesis. The goal of this study was to determine whether deficiencies of the ETS family member, Friend leukemia integration 1 transcription factor (FLI1), and its closest homolog, ETS-related gene (ERG), are associated with PAH. We found that endothelial ERG was significantly reduced in the lung samples from patients with PAH, as well as in chronically hypoxic mice. Functional studies revealed that depletion of ERG or FLI1 in human pulmonary ECs led to increased expression of inflammatory genes, including IFN genes, whereas genes regulating endothelial homeostasis and cell-cell adhesion were down-regulated. Simultaneous knockdown of both ERG and FLI1 had synergistic or additive effects on the expression of these genes, suggesting that ERG and FLI1 coregulate at least a subset of their target genes. Functionally, knockdown of ERG and FLI1 induced cell monolayer permeability with a potency similar to that of vascular endothelial growth factor. Notably, stimulation of ECs with Toll-like receptor 3 ligand poly(I:C) suppressed ERG expression and induced ERG dissociation from the IFNB1 promoter, while promoting signal transducers and activators of transcription 1 (STAT1) recruitment. Consistent with the up-regulation of inflammatory genes seen in vitro, Erg and Fli1 double-heterozygote mice showed increased immune cell infiltration and expression of cytokines in the lung. In conclusion, loss of ERG and FLI1 might contribute to the pathogenesis of vascular lung complications through the induction of inflammation.
Fourier features for explosive hazard detection using a wideband electromagnetic induction sensor

Sensors which use electromagnetic induction (EMI) to excite a response in conducting bodies have been investigated for the purpose of detecting buried explosives. In particular, wide band EMI sensors which use a relatively low number of operating frequencies have been used to discriminate between types of objects, and to detect objects with very low metal content.1 In this paper, Fourier features are extracted using the 2D Fourier transform from the complex data; both spatially, and across operating frequencies. Then, the Multiple Instance Adaptive Coherence Estimator (MI-ACE)2 is used to learn cross-validated target signatures from these features. These signatures, as well as learned background, statistics are used with ACE to generate confidence maps, which are clustered into alarms. Alarms are scored against a ground truth and compared to other detection algorithms.
The laboratory environmental algae pond simulator (LEAPS) photobioreactor: Validation using outdoor pond cultures of Chlorella sorokiniana and Nannochloropsis salina

Abstract A bench-scale photobioreactor system, the Laboratory Environmental Algae Pond Simulator (LEAPS), was designed and constructed to simulate outdoor pond cultivation for a wide range of geographical locations and seasons. The LEAPS consists of six well-mixed glass column photobioreactors submerged in a temperature controlled waterbath (− 2 °C to > 60 °C) and illuminated from above by a programmable multicolor LED lighting system (0 to 2500 μmol/m 2 -s). Measured incident light intensities and water temperatures deviated from the respective light and temperature setpoints on average only 2.3% and 0.9%, demonstrating accurate simulation of light and temperature conditions measured in outdoor ponds. In order to determine whether microalgae strains cultured in the LEAPS exhibit the same linear phase biomass productivity as in outdoor ponds, Chlorella sorokiniana and Nannochloropsis salina were cultured in the LEAPS bioreactors using light and temperature scripts measured previously in the respective outdoor pond studies. For Chlorella sorokiniana , the summer season biomass productivity in the LEAPS was 6.6% and 11.3% lower than in the respective outdoor ponds in Rimrock, Arizona, and Delhi, California; however, these differences were not statistically significant. For Nannochloropsis salina , the winter season biomass productivity in the LEAPS was 9.2% higher than in the respective outdoor ponds in Tucson, Arizona, a difference shown to be not statistically significant. Potential reasons for the positive or negative divergence in LEAPS performance, relative to outdoor ponds, are discussed. To demonstrate the utility of the LEAPS in predicting productivity, two other strains – Scenedesmus obliquus and S tichococcus minor – were evaluated using the summer season script for Rimrock, Arizona. For both strains, the productivity was around 11.6 g/m 2 -day at 25 cm culture depth. In conclusion, the LEAPS is an accurate pond simulator and thus offers a reliable, fast, and cost-effective way to screen microalgae strains and operating conditions for high biomass productivity and co-product yields.
Evaluación del uso de cascarilla de arroz, polietileno y polipropileno en la producción de postes para uso agropecuario

El objetivo de este proyecto fue desarrollar un biomaterial compuesto a partir de plasticos reciclados como polietileno y polipropileno, tambien haciendo uso de una fibra vegetal (cascarilla de arroz), para la elaboracion de un poste de uso agropecuario. Para determinar las propiedades del material se caracterizaron las materias primas utilizadas, para el caso del polipropileno y polietileno se realizaron pruebas de combustion, presencia de halogeno, solubilidad, densidad y espectrofotometria infrarroja. Con respecto a la cascarilla de arroz se realizaron pruebas de humedad, cenizas, densidad y analisis bromatologico. Las propiedades mecanicas fueron evaluadas a traves de ensayos de traccion y compresion por medio de las normas ASTM D-638 y D-695 respectivamente, determinando cual de las proporciones entre los plasticos y la fibra vegetal (10%,30%,40%) presento las mejores propiedades mecanicas para la elaboracion del producto. Se obtuvo un material con buena propiedad mecanica y viable para la fabricacion de postes de uso agropecuario utilizando materiales reciclados y desechos organicos
In vitro Influence of Phenylalanine on Acetylcholinesterase Activity and DNA

Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is a significant compo­nent of the membrane contributing to the permeability changes during synaptic transmission and conduction. Phenylketonuria is a group of metabolic disorders in which phenylalanine (Phe) is highly elevated in blood (up to 0 .1 ᴍ) resulting in*mental retardation etc. AChE activity was measured spectrophotometrically after incu­ bation with various Phe concentrations. Phe interaction with DNA was evaluated with an established HPLC method. Phe was found to inhibit AChE almost 40% , at a concentration of 5 mᴍ, whereas a 62.5% DNA peak exclusion (molecular interaction) was observed when Phe was incubated with DNA at a concentration of 3 mᴍ. In addition the ratio of DNA: Phe determined the potency of the observed molecular effect.
Single Walled Carbon Nanotube Based Air Pocket Encapsulated Ultraviolet Sensor

Carbon nanotube (CNT) is a promising candidate as a sensor material for the sensitive detection of gases/vapors, biomarkers, and even some radiation, as all these external variables affect the resistance and other properties of nanotubes, which forms the basis for sensing. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation does not impact the nanotube properties given the substantial mismatch of bandgaps and therefore, CNTs have never been considered for UV sensing, unlike the popular ZnO and other oxide nanwires. It is well-known that UV assists the adsorption/desorption characteristics of oxygen on carbon nanotubes, which changes the nanotube resistance. Here, we demonstrate a novel sensor structure encapsulated with an air pocket, where the confined air is responsible for the UV sensing mechanism and assures sensor stability and repeatability over time. In addition to the protection from any contamination, the air pocket encapsulated sensor offers negligible baseline drift and fast recovery compared to previously reported sen...
The probability of return conditional on migration duration: evidence from Kosovo

The aim of this paper is to conceptualise the migration duration decision within the expected utility maximisation framework, and from that to derive and estimate an empirical proposition. For this purpose, the conceptual framework in Kotorri (2015) is extended where households decide to return to the home country conditional on their migration duration. In the empirical analysis, the Cox proportional hazards model is employed. This analysis is the first to investigate migration duration based on a random sample stemming from the Kosovo census of population conducted in 2011. The findings suggest rather mixed support for the household approach. The hazard to return decreases with income but not nonlinearly. The results indicate that household return migration behaviour is influenced by demographic characteristics, psychic income, and political factors.
Book Review- Developing the Global Student: Higher Education in an Era of Globalization Internationalization in Higher Education Series

While administrators may consider increasing their international student population as a plausible solution to the enrollment crisis, they must also consider how these students navigate the campus environments. What are our responsibilities as higher education administrators? How will U.S. students respond to their international classmates? Moreover, will native students understand and accept the differences they encounter? David Killick’s book, Developing the Global Student: Higher Education in an Era of Globalization asks how prepared students are for the international community. Killick’s discussion methods include philosophy, student development, and self-reflection, which will appeal to most readers.
Ultrasound-guided intravenous access in adults using SonoStik®, a novel encapsulated sterile guidewire: A prospective cohort trial.

Purpose:We evaluated the performance of an encapsulated guidewire designed for single-handed use with ultrasound-guided vascular access (SonoStik) with Seldinger technique, as compared with conventional intravenous catheters placed under ultrasound guidance in healthy subjects.Methods:This is a prospective cohort trial in healthy subjects in which each subject served as his/her own control by having a SonoStik ultrasound intravenous cannulation placed in one arm and a conventionally placed, standard ultrasound intravenous cannulation placed in the other arm. The basilic vein was used because it is a non-visible and non-palpable vein. Emergency department technicians with extensive experience in ultrasound-guided intravenous access performed the procedures. The first-attempt success rate of intravenous-guided intravenous by using the SonoStik was compared to the standard ultrasound intravenous cannulation in adult healthy subjects. The secondary outcomes including time of procedure, technicians’ and subjec...
Affine algebraic sets and the representation theory of finitely generated groups

In the next few lectures I want to develop the very beginnings of geometric representation theory and then give two applications of this theory to combinatorial group theory.
The Theorem on Arithmetic Progressions

Van der Waerden proves theorem on monochromatic arithmetic progressions of arbitrary length in finitely colored integers.
Single step 3D printing of bioinspired structures via metal reinforced thermoplastic and highly stretchable elastomer

Abstract Multimaterial additive manufacturing technique is a great alternative approach for fabrication of complex structures with diverse mechanical properties compared to traditional assembly process. Fused deposition modeling is a simple, popular and affordable technique, which is available in numerous desktop 3D printers nowadays. However, this technology is not developed considerably to co-fabricate highly stretchable (800% strain) elastomer materials with low stiffness and high strength parts in one single build platform. In this paper, a single step fabrication of a novel bioinspired joint system, consisting of dissimilar materials with high strength and high strain elements is developed by an inexpensive 3D printer. The joint consists of continuous metal fibers reinforced thermoplastic part that resembles bones and soft elastomer that mimics soft tissues. Tensile test results of the 3D printed reinforced thermoplastic part showed a 78% increase in strength, which can be competed with natural bone. Highly stretchable elastomer is used for the soft parts that was directly 3D printed and simultaneously cured by heating. Overall, a simple and cost effective heterogeneous material manufacturing technique is developed that maintained high mechanical strength and sufficient elasticity, to produce a bioinspired joint that composed of a rigid skeleton covered by a very soft elastomer.
Catalytic CN Bond Formation by Metal-Imide-Mediated Imine Metathesis

Molybdenum bis(imide) complexes of the general formula (DME)Cl2Mo(NR)2 catalytically metathesize acyclic imine substrates. This CN bond-forming reaction has significant implications for the synthesis of small molecules by ring-closing metathesis and polymers by ring-opening metathesis. A series of closely related NR transfer reactions were examined in an effort to fully understand the process. (RO)2Mo(CHR‘)(NAr) (1a, Ar = 2,6-diisopropylphenyl in all cases; R = C(CF3)2CH3) underwent alkylidene/imine exchange with a variety of imines in situ to give a mixed bis(imide) product and an olefin. The reactivity decreased if the alkoxide substituents were changed for more electron donating ones. (DME)Cl2Mo(NR)2 (3a, R = 2,6-diisopropylphenyl; 4, R = t-Bu) reacted with imines in an imide/imine metathesis to give mixed bis(imide) complexes and new imines. The reaction rates depended strongly on the steric demands of the imide NR substituent. Replacement of the chlorides with more electron donating alkoxide ligands ...
Performance and life cycle environmental benefits of recycling spent ion exchange brines by catalytic treatment of nitrate.

Abstract Salt used to make brines for regeneration of ion exchange (IX) resins is the dominant economic and environmental liability of IX treatment systems for nitrate-contaminated drinking water sources. To reduce salt usage, the applicability and environmental benefits of using a catalytic reduction technology to treat nitrate in spent IX brines and enable their reuse for IX resin regeneration were evaluated. Hybrid IX/catalyst systems were designed and life cycle assessment of process consumables are used to set performance targets for the catalyst reactor. Nitrate reduction was measured in a typical spent brine (i.e., 5000 mg/L NO 3 − and 70,000 mg/L NaCl) using bimetallic Pd–In hydrogenation catalysts with variable Pd (0.2–2.5 wt%) and In (0.0125–0.25 wt%) loadings on pelletized activated carbon support (Pd–In/C). The highest activity of 50 mg NO 3 − /(min − gPd) was obtained with a 0.5 wt%Pd–0.1 wt%In/C catalyst. Catalyst longevity was demonstrated by observing no decrease in catalyst activity over more than 60 days in a packed-bed reactor. Based on catalyst activity measured in batch and packed-bed reactors, environmental impacts of hybrid IX/catalyst systems were evaluated for both sequencing-batch and continuous-flow packed-bed reactor designs and environmental impacts of the sequencing-batch hybrid system were found to be 38–81% of those of conventional IX. Major environmental impact contributors other than salt consumption include Pd metal, hydrogen (electron donor), and carbon dioxide (pH buffer). Sensitivity of environmental impacts of the sequencing-batch hybrid reactor system to sulfate and bicarbonate anions indicate the hybrid system is more sustainable than conventional IX when influent water contains
Examining the DSM-5 latent structures of posttraumatic stress disorder in a national sample of student veterans.

Abstract To date, no studies have examined the latent structures of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) within a sample of student veterans. To examine these constructs in a student veteran sample (n = 297), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted on six different models of PTSD, including a one-factor model, based on the 20 symptoms found in the DSM-5; PTSD was assessed using the PCL-5. Global fit statistics suggest that fit across all models, including the 1-factor model, were good [RMSEAs(0.054−0.056); CFIs(0.928−0.940); SRMRs(0.043−0.045)], and the AIC was lowest for the seven-factor hybrid model. Statistical tests and fit guidelines for nested models suggest there is no quantitative advantage of a five, six, or seven-factor model over the existing DSM-5 four-factor model. Given the high percentage of student veterans that screened positive for a probable PTSD diagnosis (53 %) in this study compared to non-student veterans (11–20 %) and the general student population (11–15 %) found in other studies, further research is needed to assess the clinical utility of these symptoms and model structures.
Investigating the potential underdiagnosis of primary hyperparathyroidism at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences.

Introduction Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) is a condition in which one or more parathyroid glands secrete excess amounts of parathyroid hormone (PTH). In short, PHPT is characterized by hypercalcemia/hypercalciuria with concurrent elevated PTH levels. This condition is known to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, psychiatric disturbances, and renal complications. As of now, the disease typically runs a long course before being identified and treated. At present, surgery is the only viable treatment option for patients with this disease. Publications from other tertiary centers have identified a large-scale underdiagnosis of PHPT. The aim of this study is to determine if similar trends exist at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS). Moreover, this study was seen as a first step to developing a machine learning strategy to diagnose PHPT in large clinical data sets. Methods To evaluate for potential underdiagnosis of PHPT at UAMS, all patients from 2006 to 2018 with hypercalcemia and/or hypercalciuria (excluding those with known malignancies or other possible causes of excess serum calcium) were identified in electronic medical records. Then, it was evaluated whether these hypercalcemic/hypercalciuric patients received subsequent measurement of PTH levels necessary to confirm the diagnosis of HPT. Results At UAMS between 2006 and 2018, 28 831 patients were identified as having hypercalcemia and/or hypercalciuria. Of these patients, only 7984 ever had subsequent PTH levels tested. Therefore, 20 847 (72.3%) of these patients never had PTH labs drawn. Conclusions These findings may represent a significant patient population in which PHPT remains undiagnosed due to lack of follow-up. PHPT is often a silent disease with an insidious onset. At the point of diagnosis, typically the treatment is surgical removal of the offending parathyroid gland(s) (parathyroidectomy). Identification of underdiagnosis is the first step for subsequent improvement in the diagnosis of PHPT. Detection of this disease in its earlier stages may open the door for medical and lifestyle interventions, thereby decreasing long-term sequelae of the disease, such as osteoporosis, myocardial infarction, or stroke.
A service line approach: Using whiteboard analytics to improve time efficiency in radiation oncology

The purpose of this study was to develop and implement a custom-designed electronic workflow management tool created by Medlever, Inc, in order to improve efficiency, leverage interoperability and maximize overall labor resources. Administrators and clinicians from five Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, Department of Radiation Oncology clinics utilized Medlever, Inc. to track and analyze clinical workflow. Real-time data were collected for the duration of 3 months. Time and process data were compared month-to-month from each of the five Banner MD Anderson facilities. The data were quantified based on efficiency scores, where efficiency score was defined by measured timelines for work completion, which was defined by average measured times to complete clinical process steps. The overall average efficiency score for the clinical process steps were as follows: simulation - 66%, define target volume - 69%, creating a treatment plan - 71%, plan review - 76%, finalizing plan - 81%, physics review - 73%, IMRT QA - 72%, approving treatment plan - 69%, and therapy chart check - 66%. The combined average efficiency scores for facility A through E were approximately 72%, 77%, 82%, 66%, and 60%, respectively. Overall, the average sum of all clinical efficiency scores for the radiation oncology service line for all five facilities was approximately 73%. The results set the base line for efficiency and can be evaluated in future studies. In conclusion, a workflow management tool is an effective system to provide results for real-time data tracking, opportunities of improved efficiency, and evidence-based approaches to workflow decision making.
A Novel Quantitative Ex Vivo Model of Functional Mitral Regurgitation

ObjectiveDurability of mitral valve (MV) repair for functional mitral regurgitation (FMR) remains suboptimal. We sought to create a highly reproducible, quantitative ex vivo model of FMR that funct...
Growing Healthy Hearts: Gardening Program Feasibility in a Hospital-Based Community Garden

Abstract Objective To assess feasibility in terms of acceptability, demand, and participant willingness to engage in gardening activities during an intervention delivered at a hospital-based community garden for patients at risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Methods In a pre-post study design, 15 adults with ≥1 CVD risk factor attended 5 education sessions over 12 weeks, tended garden beds, and completed questionnaires related to program acceptability and future gardening intentions. Interviews were used to identify areas for programmatic improvement. Results Most participants rated the intervention as good or excellent (93%), and 73% indicated that it was likely that they would garden next season. Areas for programmatic improvement included creating opportunities for group discussion, providing online materials, and offering more cooking and gardening content. Conclusions and Implications Gardening as an intervention for adult patients with CVD risk factors is feasible. Assessment of the effect of gardening on health outcomes and dietary intake is warranted.
Novel LC-MS-TOF method to detect and quantify ascorbic and uric acid simultaneously in different biological matrices

Abstract Ascorbic acid (AA) and uric acid (UA) are known as two of the major antioxidants in biological fluids. We report a novel liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry with time-of-flight (LC-MS-TOF) method for the simultaneous quantification of ascorbic and uric acids using MPA, antioxidant solution and acetonitrile as a protein precipitating agent. Both compounds were separated from interferences using a reverse phase C18 column with water and acetonitrile gradient elution (both with formic acid) and identified and quantified by MS in the negative ESI mode. Isotope labeled internal standards were also added to ensure the accuracy of the measures. The method was validated for exhaled breath condensate (EBC), nasal lavage (NL) and plasma samples by assessing selectivity, linearity, accuracy and precision, recovery and matrix effect and stability. Sample volumes below 250 µL were used and linear ranges were determined between 1 – 25 and 1 – 40 µg/mL for ascorbic and uric acid, respectively, for plasma samples, and between 0.05 – 5 (AA) and 0.05 – 7.5 (UA) µg/mL for EBC and NL samples. The new method was successfully applied to real samples from subjects that provided each of the studied matrices. Results showed higher amounts determined in plasma samples, with similar profiles for AA and UA in EBC and NL but at much lower concentrations.
Association of Pre-ESRD Serum Bicarbonate with Post-ESRD Mortality in Patients with Incident ESRD.

Background Serum bicarbonate or total carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations decline as chronic kidney disease (CKD) progresses and rise after dialysis initiation. While metabolic acidosis accelerates the progression of CKD and is associated with higher mortality among patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD), there are scarce data on the association of CO2 concentrations before ESRD transition with post-ESRD mortality. Methods A historical cohort from the Transition of Care in CKD (TC-CKD) study includes 85,505 veterans who transitioned to ESRD from October 1, 2007, through March 31, 2014. After 1,958 patients without follow-up data, 3 patients with missing date of birth, and 50,889 patients without CO2 6 months prior to ESRD transition were excluded, the study population includes 32,655 patients. Associations between CO2 concentrations averaged over the last 6 months and its rate of decline during the 12 months prior to ESRD transition and post-ESRD all-cause, cardiovascular (CV), and non-CV mortality were examined by using hierarchical adjustment with Cox regression models. Results The cohort was on average 68 ± 11 years old and included 29% Black veterans. Baseline concentrations of CO2 were 23 ± 4 mEq/L, and median (interquartile range) change in CO2 were -1.8 [-3.4, -0.2] mEq/L/year. High (≥28 mEq/L) and low ( 4 mEq/L/year. Conclusion Both high and low pre-ESRD CO2 levels (≥28 and 4 mEq/L/year during 1 year before dialysis initiation were associated with greater post-ESRD all-cause, CV, and non-CV mortality. Further studies are needed to determine the optimal management of CO2 in patients with advanced CKD stages transitioning to ESRD.
Novel Myosin-Based Therapies in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the most common genetic disease of myocardium and is recognized to have substantial clinical impact including sudden cardiac death, arrhythmias, and heart failure. Historically medical therapies have been used in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) with limited prospective randomized data to support their effectiveness. In this review, we discuss a novel class of drug that inhibits myosin (myo-blocker) which was developed to precisely target the mechanism of HCM in detail. We discuss and contextualize the clinical trial results for mavacamten, positioning it in the therapeutic landscape as well as presenting future questions and further developments to be made in this area. Many sarcomeric mutations driving hypertrophic cardiomyopathy seem to have a primary effect of causing hypercontractility which may drive many secondary problems such as structural remodeling, arrhythmias, and further contractile deficits. Myo-blockers such as the first-in-class mavacamten are small molecules that specifically target myosin to decrease contractility and have been developed to precisely ameliorate the hypercontractile mechanism of HCM. Mavacamten has been shown in large, randomized, double-blind clinical trials to have benefit generally in improving symptoms, decreasing LV outflow tract obstruction, and promoting beneficial remodeling in HCM with obstructive physiology.