cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Roles and Functions of Clinical Nurse Specialists

This paper examines the research conducted on the role and function of Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS). Four research themes have evolved over the past few decades: perceptions of the role; CNS' time allocation; effects of CNS on patient and family outcomes and cost of care; and, the actual functions of CNS. The authors identify areas for future research to demonstrate the differences that CNS make in health outcomes.
Genetic HDL deficiency states.

Barr et al (1) were the first investigators to document a relationship between decreased high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol concentrations and coronary artery disease (CAD). Subsequently in 1966 Gofman et al. in a prospective study (2) found a similar association of plasma HDL levels with disease. This concept was not properly recognized until Miller and Miller published their work in 1975 (3). In 1977 two more studies, Framingham (4) and Tromso (5) provided further evidence of the inverse relationship between levels of HDL in plasma and risk of CAD.
Modeling and analysis of manufacturing variations

Process-induced variations are an important consideration in the design of integrated circuits. Until recently, it was sufficient to model die-to-die shifts in device performance, leading to the well known worst-case modeling and design methodology. However, current and near-future integrated circuits are large enough that device and interconnect parameter variations within the chip are as important as those same variations from chip to chip. This presents a new set of challenges for process modeling and characterization and for the associated design tools and methodologies. This paper examines the sources and trends of process variability, the new challenges associated with the increase in within-die variability analysis, and proposes a modeling and simulation methodology to deal with this variability.
Phase-space density constraints on the formation of bulges from discs

The colours of stellar bulges and of inner stellar discs are comparable, and consistent with rather similar mean metallicities and ages. Indeed, the mean chemical abundances of the Milky Way bulge and old disc are approximately equal. Further, the scalelengths of discs and bulges are correlated. These observations imply a close relationship between discs and bulges, and may support models in which stellar bulges form from stellar discs. The present paper discusses constraints on this scenario from the stellar phase-space density of bulges and of discs. Phase-space density cannot increase in the absence of collisional processes. We show here that the maximum phase-space density of galactic bulges is higher than that of inner discs, arguing that instabilities of purely stellar discs cannot form bulges. Rather, the high densities of bulges probably reflect gaseous dissipation. Gas inflow from the disc would complicate the interpretation of the similarities in stellar colours between discs and bulges. Gas inflow from the stellar halo, if one exists, may be favoured on angular momentum grounds, but this means of formation of the bulge would provide no explanation for the relationships between disc and bulge in any one galaxy. At least in the Milky Way, the metallicity distribution of the bulge is not consistent with the bulge being built up from the dense regions of accreted satellite galaxies and/or globular clusters.
Neurologic Complications of Pediatric Systemic Cancer

Each year in the United States, an average of one to two children per 10,000 develop cancer. Survival rates for children with cancer have continued to increase quite dramatically over the last several decades. Many cancer patients have symptomatic neurologic complications during the course of their illness; neurologic problems are a common reason for hospitalization of patients with systemic cancer, both in adults and in children. Therapeutic improvements, longer survival and improved imaging modalities have increased both the amount of time at risk and the possibility of detecting such complications. The incidence, timing, etiology and treatment of neurologic sequelae in children with cancer have not been extensively evaluated. The purpose of this review is to outline the major tumor- and treatment-related neurologic sequelae of pediatric cancer.
METHOTREXATE INHIBITS PROTEOLYSIS OF DIHYDROFOLATE REDUCTASE BY THE N-END RULE PATHWAY

Abstract The N-end rule relates the in vivo half-life of a protein to the identity of its N-terminal residue. In eukaryotes, the N-end rule pathway is a ubiquitin-dependent, proteasome-based system that targets and processively degrades proteins bearing certain N-terminal residues. Arg-DHFR, a modified dihydrofolate reductase bearing an N-terminal arginine (destabilizing residue in the N-end rule), is short lived in ATP-supplemented reticulocyte extract. It is shown here that methotrexate, which is a folic acid analog and high affinity ligand of DHFR, inhibits the degradation but not ubiquitination of Arg-DHFR by the N-end rule pathway. The degradation of other N-end rule substrates is not affected by methotrexate. We discuss implications of these results for the mechanism of proteasome-mediated protein degradation.
Cranial MR imaging in rhizomelic chondrodysplasia punctata.

We recently performed cranial MR imaging in an infant with RCDP; the findings from that study are reported here
Hospital length of stay and all-cause 30-day readmissions among high-risk medicaid beneficiaries

This study examined the association between index hospitalization characteristics and the risk of all-cause 30-day readmission among high-risk Medicaid beneficiaries using multilevel analyses. A retrospective cohort with a baseline and a follow-up period was used. The study population consisted of Medicaid beneficiaries (21-64 years old) with selected chronic conditions, continuous fee-for-service enrollment through the observation period, and at least 1 inpatient encounter during the follow-up period (N = 15,806). The outcome of 30-day readmission was measured using inpatient admissions within 30-days from the discharge date of the first observed hospitalization. Key independent variables included length of stay, reason for admission, and month of index hospitalization (seasonality). Multilevel logistic regression that accounted for beneficiaries nested within counties was used to examine this association, after controlling for patient-level and county-level characteristics. In this study population, 16.7% had all-cause 30-day readmissions. Adults with greater lengths of stay during the index hospitalization were more likely to have 30-day readmissions (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.03, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02-1.04). Adults who were hospitalized for cardiovascular conditions (AOR: 1.20, 95% CI: 1.08-1.33), diabetes (AOR: 1.23, 95% CI: 1.10-1.39), cancer (AOR: 1.55, 95% CI: 1.26-1.90), and mental health conditions (AOR: 2.17, 95% CI: 1.98-2.38) were more likely to have 30-day readmissions compared to those without these conditions.
Dynamic and Transient Stability of HE II Cooled Conductors

This paper describes a detailed mathematical model of the stability of high current conductors cooled in He II with particular emphasis on long time constant current diffusion from NbTi strands to high purity aluminum stabilizer. The model is used to determine the stability margin (transient stability) and to define conditions which result in a constant length normal zone propagation (dynamic stability). Transient stability does not ensure dynamic stability, since the first is both surface and volumetric helium and conductor related while the second is only surface helium and conductor related.
A comparison of health care costs for chiropractic and medical patients.

Objective To compare the health care costs of patients who have received chiropractic treatment for common neuromusculoskeletal disorders with those treated solely by medical and osteopathic physicians. Design Retrospective statistical analysis of 2 yr of claims data on various categories of utilization and insurance payments for a large national sample of patients. Setting Ambulatory and inpatient care. Patients A total of 395,641 patients with one or more of 493 neuromusculoskeletal ICD-9 codes. Outcome measures Hospital admission rates and 10 categories of insurance payments. Results Nearly one-fourth of patients were treated by chiropractors. Patients receiving chiropractic care experienced significantly lower health care costs as represented by third party payments in the fee-for-service sector. Total cost differences on the order of $1,000 over the 2-yr period were found in the total sample of patients as well as in subsamples of patients with specific disorders. The lower costs are attributable mainly to lower inpatient utilization. The cost differences remain statistically significant after controlling for patient demographics and insurance plan characteristics. Conclusions Although work is in progress to control for possible variations in case mix and to compare outcomes in addition to costs, these preliminary results suggest a significant cost-saving potential for users of chiropractic care. The results also suggest the need to reexamine insurance practices and programs that restrict chiropractic coverage relative to medical coverage.
Mitochondrial Diseases and Aging

Over the past seven years, a large number of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) base substitution and rearrangement mutations have been associated with a variety of degenerative diseases as well as aging. These disease processes preferentially affect the most metabolically active tissues, have a delayed onset, and progress. These clinical characteristics may be explained by the interaction between inherited and somatic mtDNA mutations.
Salt Marsh Sustainability: Challenges During an Uncertain Future

Many salt marshes throughout southern New England are exhibiting a trend toward submergence, as reported in this volume and other published literature. This paper provides a brief perspective on sea-level rise and the many other interacting factors that contribute to marsh submergence in this and other regions. Curtailing nutrient loading and removing or altering barriers (e.g., dams, dikes) to the delivery of suspended sediment to marshes are discussed as management or restoration techniques to consider for increasing long-term sustainability of marshes. Adaptation measures are many (e.g., thin-layer sediment application to marsh surface, facilitation of landward marsh migration, shoreline stabilization), but all require study to evaluate their potential for enhancing resilience. Research, monitoring, and dynamic modeling, coupled with appropriate management and adaptation approaches implemented at local and regional scales, will contribute to the challenge of sustaining salt marshes in an uncertain future of sea-level rise, other climate factors, and stressors associated with a developing coastal zone.
The Natural History of Pneumonic Tularemia in Female Fischer 344 Rats after Inhalational Exposure to Aerosolized Francisella tularensis Subspecies tularensis Strain SCHU S4

The inbred Fischer 344 rat is being evaluated for testing novel vaccines and therapeutics against pneumonic tularemia. Although primary pneumonic tularemia in humans typically occurs by inhalation of aerosolized bacteria, the rat model has relied on intratracheal inoculation of organisms because of safety and equipment issues. We now report the natural history of pneumonic tularemia in female Fischer 344 rats after nose-only inhalational exposure to lethal doses of aerosolized Francisella tularensis subspecies tularensis, strain SCHU S4. Our results are consistent with initial uptake of aerosolized SCHU S4 from the nasal cavity, lungs, and possibly the gastrointestinal tract. Bacteremia with hematogenous dissemination was first detected 2 days after exposure. Shortly thereafter, the infected rats exhibited fever, tachypnea, and hypertension that persisted for 24 to 36 hours and then rapidly decreased as animals succumbed to infection between days 5 and 8 after exposure. Tachycardia was observed briefly, but only after the core body temperature and blood pressure began to decrease as the animals were near death. Initial neutrophilic and histiocytic inflammation in affected tissues became progressively more fibrinous and necrotizing over time. At death, as many as 1010 colony-forming units were found in the lungs, spleen, and liver. Death was attributed to sepsis and disseminated intravascular coagulation. Overall, the pathogenesis of pneumonic tularemia in the female F344 rat model appears to replicate the disease in humans.
DO CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH SCREENING PROGRAMS AND FOCUSED COUNSELING HAVE IMPACT ON PATIENT HABITS AND LIFESTYLE CHANGE? EARLY RESULTS OF THE HEART SMART SCREENING PROGRAM

Background: Whether community-based cardiac screening programs have impact on risk modification and behavioral changes is unclear. The Heart Smart Screening Program (HSSP) was evaluated among 3 different patient populations separated based on their 10-year ASCVD calculated risk. The HSSP involves
Development of a CRISPR-Cas9 System for Efficient Genome Editing of Candida lusitaniae.

ABSTRACT Candida lusitaniae is a member of the Candida clade that includes a diverse group of fungal species relevant to both human health and biotechnology. This species exhibits a full sexual cycle to undergo interconversion between haploid and diploid forms. C. lusitaniae is also an emerging opportunistic pathogen that can cause serious bloodstream infections in the clinic and yet has often proven to be refractory to facile genetic manipulations. In this work, we develop a clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR) and CRISPR-associated gene 9 (Cas9) system to enable genome editing of C. lusitaniae . We demonstrate that expression of CRISPR-Cas9 components under species-specific promoters is necessary for efficient gene targeting and can be successfully applied to multiple genes in both haploid and diploid isolates. Gene deletion efficiencies with CRISPR-Cas9 were further enhanced in C. lusitaniae strains lacking the established nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ) factors Ku70 and DNA ligase 4. These results indicate that NHEJ plays an important role in directing the repair of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) in C. lusitaniae and that removal of this pathway increases integration of gene deletion templates by homologous recombination. The described approaches significantly enhance the ability to perform genetic studies in, and promote understanding of, this emerging human pathogen and model sexual species. IMPORTANCE The ability to perform efficient genome editing is a key development for detailed mechanistic studies of a species. Candida lusitaniae is an important member of the Candida clade and is relevant both as an emerging human pathogen and as a model for understanding mechanisms of sexual reproduction. We highlight the development of a CRISPR-Cas9 system for efficient genome manipulation in C. lusitaniae and demonstrate the importance of species-specific promoters for expression of CRISPR components. We also demonstrate that the NHEJ pathway contributes to non-template-mediated repair of DNA DSBs and that removal of this pathway enhances efficiencies of gene targeting by CRISPR-Cas9. These results therefore establish important genetic tools for further exploration of C. lusitaniae biology.
Grassland bird community and acoustic complexity appear unaffected by proximity to a wind energy facility in the Nebraska Sandhills

ABSTRACT The placement of wind energy facilities on the landscape is a potential source of direct mortality for wildlife, but indirect effects of wind facilities on natural communities are less well known. An anthropogenically altered acoustic environment may render habitat unsuitable for species that use vocalizations to communicate. We listened to sound recordings to identify the species assemblage of common breeding birds in an unfragmented grassland in the Nebraska Sandhills (USA) in the vicinity of a wind energy facility. From the recordings, we calculated the Acoustic Complexity Index (ACI), which we used to assess differences in the avian community between a reference area (>760 m from any turbines) and a treatment area (<760 m from turbines). We did not observe differences at the assemblage level using univariate metrics of diversity: mean species richness (3.48 vs. 3.25 species per recording event) and Whittaker βw index (6.03 vs. 5.85 species turnover of habitat type) or the ACI (0.17 vs. 0.15)....
Effects of acute hyperinsulinemia on skeletal muscle mitochondrial function, reactive oxygen species production, and metabolism in premenopausal women.

Abstract Background Acute metabolic demands that promote excessive and/or prolonged reactive oxygen species production may stimulate changes in mitochondrial oxidative capacity. Purpose To assess changes in skeletal muscle H 2 O 2 production, mitochondrial function, and expression of genes at the mRNA and protein levels regulating energy metabolism and mitochondrial dynamics following a hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp in a cohort of 11 healthy premenopausal women. Methods Skeletal muscle biopsies of the vastus lateralis were taken at baseline and immediately following the conclusion of a hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp. Mitochondrial production of H 2 O 2 was quantified fluorometrically and mitochondrial oxidation supported by pyruvate, malate, and succinate (PMS) or palmitoyl carnitine and malate (PCM) was measured by high-resolution respirometry in permeabilized muscle fiber bundles. mRNA and protein levels were assessed by real time PCR and Western blotting. Results H 2 O 2 emission increased following the clamp (P Conclusions This study demonstrated that acute hyperinsulinemia induced H 2 O 2 production and a concurrent decrease in coupling of mitochondrial respiration with ATP production in a cohort of healthy premenopausal women. Future studies should determine if this uncoupling ameliorates peripheral oxidative damage, and if this mechanism is impaired in diseases associated with chronic oxidative stress.
A Critique of R.D. Alexander's Views on Group Selection

Group selection is increasingly being viewed as an important force in human evolution. This paper examines the views of R.D. Alexander, one of the most influential thinkers about human behavior from an evolutionary perspective, on the subject of group selection. Alexander's general conception of evolution is based on the gene-centered approach of G.C. Williams, but he has also emphasized a potential role for group selection in the evolution of individual genomes and in human evolution. Alexander's views are internally inconsistent and underestimate the importance of group selection. Specific themes that Alexander has developed in his account of human evolution are important but are best understood within the framework of multilevel selection theory. From this perspective, Alexander's views on moral systems are not the radical departure from conventional views that he claims, but remain radical in another way more compatible with conventional views.
Microscopy of Living Bone Marrow In Situ

A chamber has been designed to permit chronic microscopic examination of living bone marrow in situ. The amount of metal adjacent to the tissue within the gap of the chamber appears to be critical if normal hemopoiesis is to occur, since excessive metal resulted in the regeneration of a hypocellular, gelatinous marrow. When the amount of metal was reduced, relatively normal marrow regenerated into the chamber. Most frequently this histologically resembled yellow marrow but on occasion highly active marrow was observed. Preliminary examination of the microvascular system confirmed previous reports that sinusoids generally were arranged in interconnecting polygonal networks surrounding individual or clusters of fat and hemopoietic cells. The sinusoids were lined by a definite endothelium. No "intersinusoidal capillaries" were observed.
Selected two-dimensional problems

A body is said to be in the state of plane strain, parallel to x 1 x 2 plane, if component u 3 of the displacement vector is zero or constant and components u 1 and u 2 are functions of x 1 and x 2, but not of x 3. Then e 13 = e 23 = e 33 = 0.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act: Will More Public Spending Pave the Way to a Better Infrastructure?

This is a policy paper on the effect of infrastructure spending. Congress and the new Administration are considering an $825 billion stimulus package that would in part grant the states $550 billion in new spending, much of which will be dedicated to infrastructure. Proponents claim this money will not only create government-funded jobs but will increase consumer spending and thereby increase incomes, while also improving America's infrastructure - ensuring safety and economic productivity. While America's infrastructure may indeed need improvement, public spending is not the best way to fix it. Our infrastructure needs more than just a physical overhaul. It needs to move from an outmoded model of government provision to a system that permits and encourages innovation and flexibility.
Mechanism of clomazone resistance in Leptochloa fusca spp. fasicularis to clomazone.

Bearded sprangletop (Leptochloa fusca spp. fasicularis) is a problematic weed in California rice (Oryza sativa) production. Historically, bearded sprangletop is controlled with clomazone in California rice fields. The continuous use of clomazone and lack of crop rotation in rice fields resulted in resistance to clomazone in several bearded sprangletop. The objective of this research was to determine the clomazone mechanism of resistance of two bearded sprangletop populations in California rice by investigating clomazone absorption, translocation, and metabolism under controlled environmental conditions in two resistant (CRBS1 and CRBS2) and one susceptible (S) populations. Absorption and translocation of 14C-clomazone were similar in R and S. Clomazone metabolism, as determined by inhibition of cytochrome P450 enzymes with malathion and determining clomazone metabolites profile, was different between S and R 3 days after treatment. Bearded sprangletop pretreated with malathion was 2-fold more sensitive to clomazone than when treated with clomazone alone, suggesting that cytochrome P450-mediated clomazone metabolism might be involved in the mechanism of resistance. An HPLC-MS/MS analysis revealed differences in clomazone metabolism between R and S biotypes. Hydroxymethylclomazone was the most abundant metabolite found in R plants with three and five-fold more abundant in CRBS1 and CRBS2, respectively, when compared to S plants. 5-ketoclomazone, the known toxic metabolite of clomazone, accumulated 2-fold more in S plants than in R plants at 72 h after treatment. This research shows that clomazone is metabolized differently between R and S populations of bearded sprangletop and that P450 monooxidation is likely involved in the mechanism of resistance.
New Technologies for Improved Computing

In recent years, we learned to live with a slow-down in the growth rates predicted so far with remarkable accuracy by Moore's law. However, this does not necessarily mean that advancements in performance and reduced power consumption are not possible anymore. There will be more innovations and improvements in processor and system architecture and microarchitecture than before, which will enable continued growth - at Intel, and in the industry. Intel has identified several areas which deserve focused efforts and investment, with the promise of providing in return growth and results we came to expect. Manufacturing processes constitute the first such area. Besides using more advanced technologies to achieve smaller features on our ICs, Intel is also introducing advanced packaging solutions, which will enable exponential scaling in computing density by extending transistor placement in a third dimension. The second area is that of processor and system architecture. Computing architectures from Intel span most of the existing compute spectrum, with scalar, vector, matrix, and spatial architectures. These map roughly to our CPUs, GPUs, accelerators, and FPGAs. Memory is at the center of the third focus area. The memory hierarchy is optimized by capacity, latency, bandwidth, cost, and other features. Persistent memory and high-bandwidth memory have been introduced relatively recently in Intel systems, and will continue to influence the way the memory system is structured. The interconnect is the next important component, in a vastly heterogeneous computing environment for almost all compute devices. Communication has to keep up with computation capacity, a true challenge when trillions of operations per second are possible in many commonly used systems. Security is the fifth focus area, where Intel has the components to improve safety in computation and data preservation in a world where threats increase in number and sophistication, as seen too often recently. Last but not least, software has a significant potential in increasing computing capabilities. Intel is aiming to offer a common set of tools that can address the needs of developers for all the devices we offer, from CPUs and GPUs, to accelerators and FPGAs. Computer arithmetic is central to several of the areas highlighted above. Advancements in this field will play an important role in present as well as future processor architectures and implementations. In conclusion, we will also look at developments in this area for future Intel processors.
Expansile Nanoparticles Encapsulate Factor Quinolinone Inhibitor 1 and Accumulate in Murine Liver upon Intravenous Administration

Expansile nanoparticles (eNPs) are a promising pH-responsive polymeric drug delivery vehicle, as demonstrated in multiple intraperitoneal cancer models. However, previous delivery routes were limit...
Targeted protein degradation as a powerful research tool in basic biology and drug target discovery

Controlled perturbation of protein activity is essential to study protein function in cells and living organisms. Small molecules that hijack the cellular protein ubiquitination machinery to selectively degrade proteins of interest, so-called degraders, have recently emerged as alternatives to selective chemical inhibitors, both as therapeutic modalities and as powerful research tools. These systems offer unprecedented temporal and spatial control over protein function. Here, we review recent developments in this field, with a particular focus on the use of degraders as research tools to interrogate complex biological problems. Small molecules that hijack the cellular protein ubiquitination machinery to selectively degrade proteins of interest have emerged as therapeutic modalities and powerful research tools. This Review summarizes recent developments in this field, with a focus on the use of degraders as research tools.
Reliability of Approximate Methods to Study Tip-Functionalized Single-Wall Carbon Nanotubes

Calculations of the full structure and spectra of large nanotubes can be very demanding of computer resources. The advantages and limitations of the cost-effective same level different basis (SLDB) and selected normal modes (SNM) protocols are elucidated for carboxylated (4,4) armchair and (8,0) zigzag single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) with varying numbers of COOH groups on the tips of the tubes. While armchair-COOH tubes exhibit C═O stretching frequencies in the standard range of 1720–1760 cm–1, zigzag-COOH tubes display a surprising C═O band around 1660 cm–1 with much higher intensity, in addition to the higher-frequency C═O mode. This low-frequency C═O peak is very unusual for a standalone COOH group and is a fingerprint of zigzag tubes.
A New Contrast Sensitivity Test for Pediatric Patients: Feasibility and Inter-Examiner Reliability in Ocular Disorders and Cerebral Visual Impairment.

Purpose Assess feasibility and interexaminer reliability of a new test of contrast sensitivity (CS) for pediatric populations. Methods The Double Happy (DH) measures CS using a method similar to the Teller Acuity Cards. The schematic DH face is 16 degrees in diameter with features of 0.3 c/d and a channel frequency of 0.8 c/d. DH log10 CS is in 0.15 log unit steps, 0.05 to 2.1. Participants were 43 unselected patients, ages 2 to 18 years: 23 were diagnosed with ocular disorders only; 20 were diagnosed with cerebral visual impairment (CVI). Two examiners measured DH log10 CS. Visual acuity (VA) was also measured. Results All 43 participants were tested for binocular DH log10CS. Cohen's kappa values for interexaminer reliability were fair. The between examiner ICC was +0.92 (P < 0.001). The mean difference between examiners was near zero, and the 95% CI was -0.44 to 0.45 log10CS. DH log10CS was near normal in the ocular disorder group and reduced in the CVI group. VA was reduced in both groups. DH log10 CS and VA were correlated (r = -0.65). DH log10 CS was a marginally better predictor of diagnosis than VA. Conclusions DH log10CS test was successful in a diverse pediatric population diagnosed with ocular disorders or CVI. Interexaminer reliability was comparable to that of adults tested previously using the same stimuli and methods. Both CS and VA are reduced in CVI. Translational Relevance CS and VA both should be tested in pediatric clinical populations, especially in those at risk of CVI.
Advancing Housing Security: An Analysis of Renting, Rent Burden, and Tenant Exploitation in Erie County, Ny

Much like the foreclosure crisis and Great Recession before it, the COVID-19 pandemic is exacerbating pre-existing levels of racial, social, and economic inequality – widening already outsized gaps between the wealthy elite and members of the middle and working classes. Among the many concerning processes being reinforced by the current crises is growth in demand for rental housing (e.g., as families face new prospects of foreclosure or unaffordability due to un- or under-employment brought on by the pandemic, many will likely transition to renting). While rising rentership is not a problem in and of itself, there is broad consensus that economic and social conditions for most renter households are worsening. Coupled with stagnant growth in living wage jobs and the long-term, uncertain nature of economic recovery from COVID-19, one consequence of these dynamics is that renters are “paying more with less.” A growing class of renters is facing a shrinking degree of housing security. Situated in a public health and economic crisis that is deepening and expanding existing racial, social, and economic inequities, there is an urgent need to advance housing security for vulnerable households, particularly renters for whom precarious, burdensome, and/or exploitative tenancy conditions contribute to further marginalization, further limiting their access to opportunity, security, and autonomy. This report studies and documents such conditions for Erie County, New York, to inform strategies and actions for creating a more equitable, democratic housing landscape. We synthesize and analyze data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Department of Housing and Urban Development, the New York State Office of Real Property Tax Services, the Center for Neighborhood Technology, and Erie County’s Geographic Information Systems (GIS) portal, drawing on a diverse and robust mix of descriptive statistics, regression modeling, spatial analysis, and big data scraping. We also review selected local policies and programs, as well as examples of best practices for advancing housing security from communities across the map. We find that, in Erie County, relative to homeowners, renters are: (1) overburdened, (2) under-served, (3) subject to exploitation, and (4) relatively disempowered. To address these issues, we propose a five-part policy program and action strategy – consisting of twelve specific policy proposals – for advancing housing security.
A Novel Negative Pressure, Face-Mounted Antechamber to Minimize Aerosolization of Particles During Endoscopic Skull Base Surgery.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed deficiencies in the adequacy of personal protective equipment (PPE) for healthcare workers. Endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery is thought to be among the highest-risk aerosol-generating procedures for surgeons and operating room personnel. OBJECTIVE: To validate the efficacy and clinical feasibility of a novel surgical device. METHODS: A low-cost, modifiable, and easily producible negative pressure, face-mounted antechamber was developed utilizing 3D printing and silicone molding. Efficacy was evaluated using an optical particle sizer to quantify aerosols generated during both cadaver and intraoperative human use with high-speed drilling. RESULTS: Particle counts in the cadaver showed that drilling led to a 2.49-fold increase in particles 0.3 to 5 µm (P = .001) and that the chamber was effective at reducing particles to levels not significantly different than baseline. In humans, drilling led to a 37-fold increase in particles 0.3 to 5 µm (P < .001), and the chamber was effective at reducing particles to a level not significantly different than baseline. Use of the antechamber in 6 complex cases did not interfere with the ability to perform surgery. Patients did not report any facial discomfort after surgery related to antechamber use. CONCLUSION: The use of a negative pressure facial antechamber can effectively reduce aerosolization from endoscopic drilling without disturbing the flow of the operation. The antechamber, in conjunction with appropriate PPE, will be useful during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as during flu season and any future viral outbreaks.
Risk of psoriasis according to body mass index: A retrospective cohort analysis.

Background Psoriasis has been linked to obesity, although data on the incidence of psoriasis according to body mass index (BMI) are limited. Objective To compare incidence of psoriasis among patients stratified by BMI category (normal or underweight, overweight, obese class 1, obese class 2/3). Methods Retrospective cohort analysis of a demographically heterogeneous sample of over 1.5 million patients in the United States between January 1, 2008 and September 9, 2019. Results Crude incidence of psoriasis per 10,000 person-years was 9.5 (95% confidence interval [CI], 9.1-10.0) among normal or underweight patients, 11.9 (95% CI, 11.4-12.4) among overweight patients, 14.2 (95% CI, 13.6-14.9) among obese class 1 patients, and 17.4 (95% CI, 16.6-18.2) among obese class 2/3 patients. Compared to patients with BMI Limitations Influence of obesity on psoriasis severity could not be measured. Conclusion BMI independently influences the development of psoriasis. There appears to be a graded association between BMI and risk of psoriasis.
Hunter acceptability of chronic wasting disease (CWD) management actions in Western Tennessee

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), a neurological disease affecting white-tailed deer has been found in many states including Tennessee. To design effective CWD management programs, stakeholders includ...
Use of Helicopter Medical Transportation to the Neuroscience Intensive Care Unit.

BACKGROUND Helicopter medical transportation (HMT) is a valuable resource that can expedite medical care by shortening transferring times. However, there is conflicting evidence regarding its cost and efficacy. No specific studies have addressed its use in patients transferred to the neuroscience intensive care unit (NSICU). METHODS This was a retrospective study performed at a university hospital in the coastal southeastern USA. The flight logs for the air ambulance company were reviewed, and all patients undergoing HMT to the NSICU during a 1-year period were identified. Flight logs and medical records were reviewed to obtain basic demographics, diagnosis, mortality, transportation distance, and performance of time-sensitive interventions (TSIs) to include ventriculostomy placement, emergency craniotomy, emergency craniectomy, emergency aneurysm obliteration, emergency spine surgery, emergent endovascular procedures, subdural drain placement, emergent shunt revision, and continuous electroencephalography (EEG) performed within 4 h of admission. We analyzed the cost of HMT and correlated the clinical variables with the performance of TSIs. RESULTS A total of 101 patients underwent HMT during a 12-month period; 26 underwent 30 TSIs (4 underwent 2 TSIs) and an additional 4 were transported for EEG monitoring. The only clinical variable associated with a TSI was subarachnoid hemorrhage with ventriculostomy placement. Continuous EEG monitoring performed in four patients with suspected status epilepticus did not show status epilepticus in any of them (one was performed after 4 h). Transportation distance was less than 60 miles in four patients who underwent TSIs. The total cost of HMT was $3,360,573: $842,672 for those who underwent TSIs and $2,517,901 for those who did not. When compared with ground transportation, an excess cost of $3,129,415.25 was incurred by using HMT. There was no difference in the median cost of transportation between patients who underwent TSIs and those who did not ($30,210 vs. $30,211). The median cost transportation difference between HMT and ground transportation was significantly different (p < 0.001), with a median excess cost of $28,023 (range $15,553-76,155) per patient. CONCLUSIONS The majority of patients who were transferred via HMT did not undergo TSIs, and among those who underwent TSIs, approximately one in six was transported from a hospital located less than 60 miles away from the NSICU; the distances of ground and air transportation are equivalent. Helicopter transfers may play a role in subarachnoid hemorrhage management. A significant expense was incurred by using HMT for the majority of patients (75%) who did not undergo TSIs.
Release of Toxic Agents in Septic Shock

The presence of toxic factors in various forms of injury must have been obvious to prehistoric man when he first experienced the relief following spontaneous drainage of an abscess. Within a few hours, the tachycardia, sweating, feeling of weakness, and malaise disappeared, and he could not help but speculate on the toxic effects of pus, the subject that concerns us now. This dramatic systemic response to the drainage of an abscess is, I think, one of the most solid indicators of the possibility that a toxic agent emanating from an area of injured tissue is responsible for many of the systemic effects of sepsis. To this day, the most striking response seen in septic patients follows the drainage of an abscess, the removal of a septic uterus, or the amputation of a septic gangrenous leg.
Fly meets shotgun: shotgun wins.

The sequencing group at Celera Genomics Corporation has cooperated with the European, Canadian and American genome projects to demonstrate that a genomic sequence as large as that of Drosophila melanogaster euchromatin (120 Mb) can be obtained by assembling the sequence of random (‘shotgun’) clones without the prerequisite for a clone-based physical map.
Nucleosides-126: Selective methylation of the C-nucleoside, ψ-isocytidine and its 2$́-deoxy analog. Synthesis of 1-methyl, 3-methyl and 4-o-methyl derivatives

Abstract Methods were developed to prepare 1 -methyl-, 3-methyl- and 4-0-methyl-ψ-isocytidine by selective methylation.3 , 5 - O-Tetraisopropyldisiloxanyl-ψ isocytidine (8) was trimethylsilylated and then treated with MeI and, after deprotection, 1 -methyl-ψ isocytidine (6) was obtained. The 2 - deoxy analog (7) was also prepared in a similar manner from the 2 - deoxy analog (10) of 8. Treatment of 8 with CH2N2 afforded the 3-methyl-ψ-isocytidine derivative (19) as the major product. Methylation with diazomethane also occurred mainly on N3 of the 2 - deoxy analog 10 to form 20. Removal of the 3 , 5 - O-protecting group from 19 and 20 afforded 3-methyl-ψ-isocytidine (14) and its 2-deoxy analog (15), respectively. 2-N-Acetyl- 3 , 5 - O-tetraisopropyldisiloxanyl-ψ-isocytidine (24), on the other hand, gave the 4-O-methyl derivative (25) as the major product upon CH2N2 treatment. Subsequent deprotection of 25 afforded 4-O-methyl-ψ-isocytidine (29). aiv51b1p33b
Abdominal movements during backward walking in crayfish

1. A study was made of the neuronal connectivity which produces cyclical abdominal flexion and extension in crayfish during backwards terrestrial walking. 2. On the basis of known coupling, intracellular recording and stimulation, and antidromic stimulation, it is concluded that motor neuron properties alone cannot be responsible for the observed output pattern. 3. The properties of a network of intersegmental interneurons isolated in area 85 of the connective are analyzed, and it is concluded that this network is responsible for driving the motor neurons to produce the cyclical pattern described. 4. A model based upon demonstrated connections among the driving neurons and between these neurons and the motor neurons is proposed which accounts for the observed behavior.
Ebola Risk and Preparedness: A National Survey of Internists.

The 2014–2015 Ebola virus disease (Ebola) epidemic centered in West Africa highlighted recurring challenges in the United States regarding risk communication and preparedness during global epidemics. To investigate perceptions, preparedness, and knowledge among U.S. internists with regard to Ebola risk. Cross-sectional Web-based national survey distributed by e-mail between December 2014 and January 2015. Practicing U.S. internists participating in a research panel representative of American College of Physicians (ACP) membership. Respondents’ perceptions of Ebola, reported sources of information, and reported management of possible Ebola cases. The primary predictor was the possibility of encountering Ebola (based on respondents’ geographic proximity to designated airports or confirmed Ebola cases, or on their patients’ travel histories). Pre-specified outcomes included reported management intensity in clinical vignettes involving patients at low risk of symptomatic Ebola as well as reported Ebola preparedness. The survey response rate was 46.1 %. Among the 202 respondents, 9.9 % (95 % CI 6.2–14.9 %) reported that they had recently evaluated a patient who had traveled to West Africa. Seventy percent (95 % CI 63.0–76.0 %) reported a practice-level protocol. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) was the most popular source for Ebola information (75.2 %, 95 % CI 68.7–81.0 %). Most respondents felt very (45.0 %) or somewhat prepared (52.0 %) to communicate information about or diagnose Ebola, especially those with the possibility of encountering Ebola and those who reported medical journals, professional groups, or government as information sources. One-fifth of respondents (19.8 %, 95 % CI 14.5–26.0 %) reported overly intensive management for low-risk patients. Those with the possibility of encountering Ebola were less likely to report overly intensive management (3.1 vs. 22.9 %, p = 0.011). Internists had wide-ranging views and understanding of Ebola risk; those least likely to encounter Ebola were most likely to be overly aggressive in managing patients at low risk. Our findings underscore the need for better risk communication through various information channels to empower frontline providers in infectious disease outbreaks.
Public Health Opportunities for Promoting Health Equity in Cancer Prevention and Control in LGBT Populations

Advances in cancer prevention, detection, and treatment have led to reductions in morbidity and premature mortality and improvements in quality of life. However, not all Americans have benefitted equally from these advances, and certain populations experience continued disparities in cancer care. Although research and public health efforts have highlighted the experiences of some groups, other populations have been relatively understudied, such as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals. Public health efforts in surveillance, research, programs, and partnerships can provide opportunities to advance health equity for LGBT at the population level and lead to better health outcomes for LGBT individuals with cancer.
Testing the Claims of Asylum Seekers: The Role of Language Analysis

Language tests in immigration contexts typically perform a gate-keeping role in decisions about whether an applicant should be granted residence or citizenship in a new country. In refugee contexts, so-called language tests or language analyses also play a gate-keeping role, but a more ambitious one; namely that of providing answers to questions concerning the genuineness or honesty of asylum seekers' claims about their origins, whether national, regional, or ethnic. That is, the way that an asylum seeker speaks in an interview with immigration officials is analysed or assessed to help in the determination of whether to accept this person's claims about their origins. It is this assessment of language that is the subject of this article, in which I will explain the methods used and then highlight some problems that have been addressed by linguists. The acronym LADO is used to refer to such “language analysis” used for the determination of origin, but it should be understood that much of the “language anal...
Life after the layoff: getting a job worth keeping

The competitive environment of business today makes corporate layoffs an organizational reality, and losing one's job can be a highly stressful experience. We propose and test a model that places objective underemployment and subjective underemployment in a causal sequence between organizational actions and employees' restoration of equilibrium by obtaining jobs worth keeping. We longitudinally examine relationships between layoff fairness, workers' stress symptoms and appraisal, and subsequent employment outcomes among 149 laid-off technical employees over the course of one year. Structural equation model results support seven of nine hypothesized paths, and demonstrate discriminant validity between and mediational properties of objective and subjective underemployment. Findings also reveal the important role that employees' perceptions and subjective assessments play in successfully returning to pre-job loss equilibrium following displacement. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
THE “SPARING” EFFECT OF PROGESTERONE ON THE HEPATIC INACTIVATION OF αESTRADIOL

PINCUS and Zahl (1937) demonstrated that progesterone exerts a “sparing” effect on the destruction of estrogens in rabbits. This work has been confirmed and greatly extended to man by the studies of Smith and Smith (1946). Their studies would also indicate that at least part of the defect in the toxemias of pregnancy is due to progesterone deficiency. White (1943) has applied these findings to the toxemias of pregnant diabetic patients in whom progesterone therapy has given striking results. The decreased infant mortality in such cases is particularly impressive. The Smiths have continued their studies and the effects of progesterone upon estrogen metabolism now form one of the basic facts upon which their current theory of the causation and purpose of menstruation rests. They found that “Progesterone enhances the metabolic conversion of estradiol (the primary ovarianestrogen) to estrone and on to estriol, thus decreasing the oxidative inactivation that appears to take place in the reversible estradiol to...
Language exclusion and the consequences of perceived ostracism in the workplace.

The current research examined the impact of workplace ostracism on work-related attitudes and behaviors. Participants read a vignette describing a series of workplace interactions between the participant and two coworkers. During the interactions, participants were included in a group discussion, ostracized by coworkers in English or ostracized in Spanish. Consistent with predictions, ostracized participants reported lower levels of organizational commitment and organizational citizenship behaviors than included participants. Ostracism by language resulted in lower work group commitment and higher levels of symbolic threat compared with included participants and those ostracized in English. Increased prejudice was also reported by participants exposed to language ostracism. Results are discussed in terms of their implications for general attitudinal processes and employee-related work attitudes and behaviors.