cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mucus glycoprotein content of chronic bronchitis sputum (39864).

SummaryWhen solubilized with mercap-toethanol and subjected to gel filtration on Sepharose 4B, sputum from patients with chronic bronchitis consistently yielded an elution pattern in which a portion of the mucus glycoproteins emerged in a fraction of very large molecular size excluded from the gel, but most emerged later in a portion of smaller molecular size retarded in the column. The concentration of the mucus glycoprotein fraction of lower molecular size increased in proportion to the content of total solids in the chronic bronchitis sputum. The elution pattern obtained with induced sputum from normal subjects differed in having relatively little of the smaller-molecular-size mucus glycoprotein fraction. Thus, the chronic bronchitis sputum was characterized by a higher total content of mucus glycoproteins than the sputum from the normal subjects, and the increase was due to a large increase in the content of the mucus glycoproteins of smaller molecular size.
Research and Interventions for Empowering Members of Historically Disadvantaged Groups

Members of historically disadvantaged groups -- such as women, ethnic minorities and low-income individuals -- face considerable challenges in many social and organizational settings. In line with ...
Flash-Quench Studies on the One-Electron Reduction of Triiodide

The one-electron reduction of triiodide (I3–) by a series of reduced ruthenium polypyridyl compounds was studied in an acetonitrile solution at room temperature using the flash-quench technique. Reductive quenching of the metal-to-ligand charge-transfer excited state of [Ru(bpy)2(deeb)]2+, [Ru(deeb)2(bpy)]2+, or [Ru(deeb)3]2+, where bpy is 2,2′-bipyridine and deeb is 4,4′-(CO2CH2CH3)2-2,2′-bipyridine, by iodide generated the reduced ruthenium compounds and diiodide (I2•–). Charge recombination of the reduced ruthenium compounds and I2•– occurred with rate constants near the calculated diffusion limit of 2.6 × 1010 M–1 s–1. The reaction of the reduced ruthenium compounds with I3– was characterized spectroscopically through the addition of I3– into the experimental solution prior to the laser flash. Transient absorption data indicated that I2•– was a reaction product of I3– reduction and appeared with an average second-order rate constant of (5.0 ± 0.6) × 109 M–1 s–1 for all three compounds. The insensitivi...
Pollution Flashover Performance of Converter Station Post Insulators at High Altitude Area

In this paper,the previous research work of the polluted outdoor insulating performance of converter stations post insulators is summarized.Moreover,according to the peculiar technology problems of UHV DC projects' external insulation in China,such as high altitude and heavy pollution etc.,the pollution flashover performances of full-size ±800 kV post insulators made of both porcelain and composite for UHVDC converter stations are reported and investigated by artificial contamination tests at actual high altitude area.Furthermore,the pollution flashover voltages of post insulators in fog and under rain in the same pollution level conditions are compared.Meanwhile,discussion and comparison are presented for the research results of previous work and this paper.The results of artificial contamination tests show that the rod diameter and the shed configuration has a significant influence on pollution flashover performance of post insulator;the relationship between the pollution flashover voltage and the insulation distance is approximately linear at actual high altitude area for post insulators;the outdoor insulation design of post insulators should give priority to the pollution flashover voltages in fog,since the voltages are lower in rain.
Mitral repair in complete atrioventricular canal. Ease of correction in early infancy.

During the past 5 years all patients with complete atrioventricular (AV) were subjected to surgical correction regardless of age. Thus we were able to assess the ease and reliability of mitral repair in early infancy. Key features of operation include division of bridging leaflets when indicated, selection of a patch sufficiently small to prevent postoperative annular dilation, attachment of the leaflets to the patch with continuous nonpledget-supported sutures at a level determined by the chordal structure, and, based on the size of the mural leaflet, construction of a bicuspid or tricuspid mitral valve. Operative mortality and postoperative morbidity were no greater in patients under 6 months of age than in older patients. Reoperation for mitral regurgitation was required in three patients. In all of them, the primary reason for the failure of repair was that the mitral valve had been left tricuspid; in two of them, the mitral anulus was dilated, as well. Repair was uniformly accomplished by bicuspidization, combined in two instances with a Wooler-type annuloplasty and shortening of the free margin of the aortic leaflet. The absence of secondary scarring of the leaflets in the patients under 6 months of age facilitated repair in this age group. Early repair is possible, and preferable, provided that meticulous attention is paid to the technical features of the repair and a proper decision is made with regard to treatment of the mitral "cleft."
Development of a TMS320c31 DSP system for acoustic echo cancellation applications

The main motivation for this paper was to develop a floating point DSP system suitable for applications such as acoustic echo cancellation (AEC) using the 'C31 DSP. Conventionally, two input/output (I/O) ports are required in the DSP chip to facilitate echo cancellation. In this paper, an AEC system was designed and implemented using the 'C31 DSP with a single I/O port. This was made possible by connecting two 'AD50 AICs to the 'synchronous serial port' of the 'C31 in a 'master-slave' arrangement. The feasibility of this implementation is underscored by the real-time waveforms. Since a single master' AD50 AIC is capable of controlling up to three slave 'AD50s, the hardware described in this paper can be easily expanded to interface four fully functional analog input-output channels to a single communication port. As an example, the implementation of NLMS algorithm in this hardware setup is described.
Characterization of asthma endotypes: implications for therapy.

Abstract Objective To describe the concept of precision medicine in treating severe asthma and the utility of relevant biomarkers. Data Sources PubMed was searched for published articles on human clinical trials using biologics for T-helper type 2 cell (T H 2)-low and T H 2-high asthma. Study Selections Studies were selected if they were double-masked, randomized, placebo-controlled trials published in peer-reviewed journals and relevant to the topic. Results Multiple immune response modifiers have been evaluated in T H 2-high asthma geared at blocking interleukin (IL)-5, IL-13, immunoglobulin E, prostaglandin D 2 , and other pathways. Currently, 3 immune response modifiers approved by the Food and Drug Administration are available for treating severe T H 2-high asthma (1 anti-immunoglobulin E and 2 anti–IL-5 monoclonal antibodies) and other T H 2-high therapies are in various stages of clinical development. Thus far, many of the T H 2-high therapies have shown better efficacy when certain biomarkers are elevated, especially blood eosinophils. The T H 2-low endotype does not have any readily available point-of-care biomarkers, so T H 2-low asthma is often diagnosed based on a lack of T H 2-high biomarkers. These patients tend to have greater resistance to steroids and the development of therapies has lagged behind that for T H 2-high asthma. Conclusion Two major endotypes for asthma have been described, T H 2-high, manifested by increased eosinophils in the sputum and airways of patients, and T H 2-low, with increased neutrophils or a pauci-granulocytic profile. Using these classifications and specific biomarkers has led to promising new therapeutics, especially for T H 2-high asthma.
Correlating NORM with the mineralogical composition of shale at the microstructural and bulk scale

Abstract Hydrocarbons produced via hydraulic fracturing of shale formations frequently contain elevated quantities of Technologically Enhanced Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (TENORM) that are difficult to dispose of and can be harmful to the environment. This research investigates the elemental composition of seven major shale formations at the bulk and microstructural scale to better understand the relationship between major naturally occurring radioactive elements (NORM) and organic phases within shales. Bulk mineralogy analysis was performed via powder X-ray diffraction to identify which shales were ideal for hydraulic stimulation based on the content of ductile and brittle minerals. To complement the XRD, Quantitative Evaluation of Minerals by Scanning Electron Microscopy (QEMSCAN®) was performed to identify non-crystalline phases and provide spatial mapping of the minerals through the shale samples. In addition, XRD and QEMSCAN were used to determine the total sulfur and carbonate content as this greatly contributes to the acidity of the shale and subsequently, U and Th migration. Select samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy - energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDX) to reveal the presence of heavy metals (i.e. U, Pb) near hydrocarbon-rich regions of the shale. The NORM content and organic content were also correlated using gamma well logging.
The Perfect Mindstorm: 4-H Robotics in Afterschool Settings

As the 4-H Science, Engineering and Technology (SET) Mission Mandate unfolds, robotics provides an opportunity to involve youth in SET activities. Utah 4-H utilized Lego Mindstorms Robotics kits to teach youth about robotics. Evaluations demonstrated that robots increase youth’s interest in science, engineering and technology.
Analysis of PGY-1 Pharmacy Resident Candidate Letters of Recommendation at an Academically Affiliated Residency Program.

Background:Letters of recommendation (LORs) are a critical component for differentiating among similarly qualified pharmacy residency candidates. These letters contain information that is difficult to ascertain from curricula vitae and pharmacy school transcripts. LOR writers may use any words or phrases appropriate for each candidate as there is no set framework for LORs.Objective:The objective of this study was to characterize descriptive themes in postgraduate year 1 (PGY-1) pharmacy residency candidates’ LORs and to examine which themes of PGY-1 pharmacy residency candidates’ LORs are predictive of an interview invitation at an academically affiliated residency program.Methods:LORs for candidates from the Pharmacy Online Residency Centralized Application System (PhORCAS) from 2013 and 2014 for the Midwestern University PGY-1 Pharmacy Residency were analyzed. LOR characteristics and descriptive themes were collected. All scores for candidate characteristics and overall PhORCAS recommendation were also ...
Early versus late inpatient awake transcervical injection laryngoplasty after thoracic aortic repair.

Background Vocal fold movement impairment (VFMI), a known complication following thoracic aortic surgery, has been associated with poorer surgical outcomes, including higher pulmonary complications and longer length of stay (LOS). Awake transcervical injection laryngoplasty in the inpatient setting serves to augment pulmonary toilet function for affected patients. This study investigates clinical outcomes of patients who underwent early versus late injection laryngoplasty following aortic surgery. Methods A 5-year review (2011–2016) of 35 patients who underwent inpatient injection laryngoplasty for VFMI following aortic repair was conducted. Data included demographics, surgery parameters, laryngologic evaluation, pulmonary complications, LOS, and mortality. Early injection was defined as within 5 days from extubation. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS, version 17.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). Results All 35 patients (mean age 56, 77% male) underwent left vocal-fold injection laryngoplasty without complication. There were 15 (43%) early procedures and 20 (57%) late procedures. Mean LOS for early and late injection groups (13 vs. 20 days, respectively) significantly differed (P = 0.04, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.3 to 14.4). Early laryngoplasty cohorts experienced less pulmonary complications (20%) than those who had late medialization (50%), but this did not reach significance (P = 0.06, 95% CI −0.3 to 8.1). The most common complication type in both groups was therapeutic bronchoscopy. Conclusion Early awake injection laryngoplasty within 5 days from extubation is feasible and may improve clinical outcomes for patients with VFMI following aortic repair. Further prospective studies on this approach for VFMI after thoracic surgery are needed. Level of Evidence 4. Laryngoscope, 00:000–000, 2017
Influence of Men’s Personality and Social Support on Treatment Decision-Making for Localized Prostate Cancer

Background. Optimal treatment for localized prostate cancer (LPC) is controversial. We assessed the effects of personality, specialists seen, and involvement of spouse, family, or friends on treatment decision/decision-making qualities. Methods. We surveyed a population-based sample of men ≤ 75 years with newly diagnosed LPC about treatment choice, reasons for the choice, decision-making difficulty, satisfaction, and regret. Results. Of 160 men (71 black, 89 white), with a mean age of 61 (±7.3) years, 59% chose surgery, 31% chose radiation, and 10% chose active surveillance (AS)/watchful waiting (WW). Adjusting for age, race, comorbidity, tumor risk level, and treatment status, men who consulted friends during decision-making were more likely to choose curative treatment (radiation or surgery) than WW/AS (OR = 11.1, ; 8.7, ). Men who saw a radiation oncologist in addition to a urologist were more likely to choose radiation than surgery (OR = 6.0, ). Men who consulted family or friends (OR = 2.6, ; 3.7, ) experienced greater decision-making difficulty. No personality traits (pessimism, optimism, or faith) were associated with treatment choice/decision-making quality measures. Conclusions. In addition to specialist seen, consulting friends increased men’s likelihood of choosing curative treatment. Consulting family or friends increased decision-making difficulty.
Number and Type of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Symptom Domains Are Associated With Patient-Reported Outcomes in Patients With Chronic Pain.

Abstract Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) commonly accompanies complex chronic pain, yet PTSD is often overlooked in chronic pain management. Using the 4-item Primary Care (PC)-PTSD screening tool, we evaluated the relationship between the number and type of PC-PTSD symptoms endorsed and a set of patient-reported outcomes, including: pain intensity and interference, function, mood, quality of life, and substance abuse risk in a consecutive sample of patients with chronic pain (n = 4,402). Patients completed PainTracker, a Web-based patient-reported outcome tool that provides a multidimensional evaluation of chronic pain, as part of their intake evaluation at a specialty pain clinic in a community setting. Twenty-seven percent of the sample met PC-PTSD screening criteria for PTSD by endorsing 3 of the 4 symptom domains. Significant ordinal trends were observed between increasing number of PTSD symptoms and all outcomes evaluated. The occurrence of even 1 PTSD symptom was associated with overall poorer outcomes, suggesting that subsyndromal PTSD is clinically significant in the context of chronic pain. Among the 4 PTSD domains assessed, “numbness/detachment” was most strongly associated with negative pain outcomes in relative weight analysis. Results from this cross-sectional study suggest that a range of pain-related outcomes may be significantly related to comorbid PTSD. Perspective We present evidence that PTSD symptoms are significantly related to a broad set of pain-related patient-reported outcomes. These findings highlight the need to evaluate for PTSD symptoms in patients with chronic pain, especially feelings of numbness or detachment from others, to improve understanding and management of chronic pain.
Incidence, response, and outcomes of cardiac arrest in Portland, Oregon

Cardiac arrest is a serious medical event with a poor prognosis of survival, at less than 10% (Zive et al, 2011). Several studies have investigated out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) response, treatment, and outcomes. Cardiac arrest databases such as the Resuscitation Outcomes Consortium (ROC) and the Cardiac Arrest Registry to Enhance Survival (CARES) have been created to provide evidence-based findings to develop emergency medical service (EMS) policies for treatment. The current study was completed to describe the cardiac arrest characteristics and outcomes of the EMS provider, American Medical Response (AMR) in Portland, Oregon, United States (US), for three metropolitan counties of approximately 1.6 million people (US Census Bureau, 2016a; 2016b; 2016c). The retrospective study described in this article used the AMR Multiple-EMS Data Systems (MEDS) database to generate data. Between 1 January 2013 and 31 December 2014, AMR responded to 2029 cardiac arrest events. In total, 45% of these cases were ...
Missed Opportunities for HIV Testing Among STD Clinic Patients

Current HIV testing guidelines recommend that all adolescents and adults aged 13–64 be routinely screened for HIV in healthcare settings. Sexually transmitted disease (STD) clinic patients represent a population at increased risk for HIV, justifying more frequent risk assessment and testing. This analysis describes missed opportunities for HIV testing among a sample of STD clinic patients to identify areas where HIV testing services may be improved. Secondary analysis was conducted using data from Project AWARE, a randomized trial of 5012 adult patients from 9 STD clinics in the United States, enrolled April–December 2010. HIV testing history, healthcare service utilization, and behavioral risks were obtained through audio computer-assisted self-interview. Missed opportunities for HIV testing, defined as having a healthcare visit but no HIV test in the last 12 months, were characterized by location and frequency. Of 2315 (46.2%) participants not tested for HIV in the last 12 months, 1715 (74.1%) had a missed opportunity for HIV testing. These missed opportunities occurred in both traditional (54.9% at family doctor, 20.3% at other medical doctor visits) and non-traditional (28.5% at dental, 19.0% at eye doctor, 13.9% at correctional facility, and 13.3% at psychology visits) testing settings. Of 53 participants positive for HIV at baseline, 16 (30.2%) had a missed testing opportunity. Missed opportunities for HIV testing were common in this population of STD clinic patients. There is a need to increase routinized HIV screening and expand testing services to a broader range of healthcare settings.
"Sleep disordered breathing and ECG R-wave to radial artery pulse delay, The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis".

Abstracts Background Electrocardiography R-wave to radial artery pulse delay (RRD) represents pulse transit time inclusive of pre-ejection period (PEP) and arterial pulse propagation time. RRD is proposed to largely reflect arterial stiffness when PEP is accounted for (shorter RRD = higher arterial stiffness). Sleep disordered breathing (SDB) causes intermittent hypoxemia and sympathetic activation, which negatively influences vascular function. We aimed to examine the association of measures of SDB with RRD. Methods Our sample consisted of participants in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis without prevalent cardiovascular disease who underwent a daytime arterial elasticity exam, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and overnight polysomnography. SDB measures of interest included apnea hypopnea index (AHI) and oxygen desaturation index (ODI) (N = 1173). RRD was regressed on each measure of SDB separately, with adjustment for other cardiovascular risk factors as well as for correlates of the PEP, another component of RRD, by including cardiac MRI measures of contractility and preload. Results In multivariate analysis, among measures of SDB, ODI, a marker of intermittent hypoxemia, was inversely associated with RRD (β = −60.2 msec per SD [15.5/hr], p = 0.04). No significant association was found with AHI. In gender stratified analyses, ODI and AHI were predictive of RRD in men only (β = −111.3 msec per SD [15.5/hr], p = 0.01 and β = −100.3 msec per SD [16.1/hr], p = 0.02 respectively). Conclusion Severity of SDB as measured by ODI was associated with RRD, a marker of arterial stiffness. Thus, association of RRD with measures of SDB appears to be gender-dependent.
Crack Growth Behavior in a Two-Phase Mo-Si-B Alloy

Mo-rich Mo-Si-B multiphase alloys are currently being explored for their potential as high-temperature structural materials for components in hot sections in aircraft engines. In this paper, we present crack growth behavior in one such two-phase alloy consisting of a Mo solid solution matrix in which is dispersed approximately 40 volume percent of the Mo5SiB2 (T2) phase. Crack growth under monotonic and cyclic loading is considered over a temperature range spanning 20°C to 1400°C. The effects of loading rate (in monotonic loading) and dwell times at maximum stress (in cyclic loading) at high temperatures on crack growth were examined to understand the contribution from creep. Results confirm a gradual increase in fracture toughness upto 1000°C, beyond which the increase is more substantial with temperature; fatigue susceptibility was also observed in excess of 900°C and crack-tip-stresses-driven microstructural instability is evident at 1400°C. At this temperature, slow loading rates or dwell times at maximum stress lead to crack-tip recrystallization and creep cavitation that together degrade the material’s properties.
Fffuse large B-cell lymphoma in the very elderly: the case for refining our clinical trials.

Further prospective clinical trials in very elderly patients with DLBCL are clearly needed. Complementing the growing need for such trials, an evolving clinical trial infrastructure, geriatric oncology support, and novel therapeutics are making such studies feasible in the current era.
Probleme und Komplikationen nach vorderer Kreuzbandplastik im Wachstumsalter

In einer eigenen systematischen Literaturanalyse zur Behandlung der vorderen Kreuzbandruptur im Wachstumsalter konnten wir zeigen, dass das klinische Ergebnis nach konservativer Therapie unbefriedigend ist. Dies wird v. a. durch eine persistierende Instabilitat mit einem positiven Giving-way-Phanomen in etwa 89% der Falle begrundet. Die operative Versorgung der vorderen Kreuzbandruptur im Wachstumsalter fuhrt i. d. R. zu guten klinischen Ergebnissen. Unter Beachtung aktueller Empfehlungen bei der operativen Versorgung konnen Wachstumsstorungen weitgehend vermieden werden. Aufgrund der Anwendung einer aus der Erwachsenenchirurgie bekannten Operationstechnik sowie der Unkenntnis uber kindgerechte Operationstechniken werden jedoch zunehmend Komplikationen nach operativer Versorgung der vorderen Kreuzbandruptur beobachtet. Zu den haufigsten postoperativen Wachstumsstorungen gehoren Beinlangendifferenzen, Genu valgum, Genu varum oder das Genu recurvatum. Isolierte Beinlangendifferenzen sind durch die operative Technik schwer zu vermeiden und werden wahrscheinlich durch die Stimulation der Wachstumsfuge mittels chirurgischer Manipulationen hervorgerufen. Eine Beinverkurzung kann durch einen Tenoepiphysiodese-Effekt des Transplantats verursacht werden. Achsenabweichungen und Fehlstellungen entstehen i. d. R. durch randstandige Fugenverletzungen der Bohrkanale. Implantate oder Knochenblocke auf Hohe der Fugen sowie nicht mit Sehnengewebe gefullte Bohrkanale auf Fugenhohe konnen weitere Ursachen fur die Entstehung von Fehlwachstum darstellen. Im dem vorliegenden Artikel sollen diese Probleme und Komplikationen nach vorderer Kreuzbandplastik im Wachstumsalter dargestellt und Vermeidungsstrategien vorgestellt werden, um das Risiko intra- und postoperativer Komplikationen zu minimieren.
Monitoring Respiratory Mechanics

Not only does the ventilator act therapeutically to support ventilation and gas exchange; it can also provide critical information regarding a patient’s respiratory mechanics, which can aid in the diagnosis of the etiology for the patient’s respiratory failure.
SensorNet: A Scalable and Low-Power Deep Convolutional Neural Network for Multimodal Data Classification

This paper presents SensorNet which is a scalable and low-power embedded deep convolutional neural network (DCNN), designed to classify multimodal time series signals. Time series signals generated by different sensor modalities with different sampling rates are first converted to images (2-D signals), and then DCNN is utilized to automatically learn shared features in the images and perform the classification. SensorNet: 1) is scalable as it can process different types of time series data with variety of input channels and sampling rates; 2) does not need to employ separate signal processing techniques for processing the data generated by each sensor modality; 3) does not require expert knowledge for extracting features for each sensor data; 4) makes it easy and fast to adapt to new sensor modalities with a different sampling rate; 5) achieves very high detection accuracy for different case studies; and 6) has a very efficient architecture which makes it suitable to be deployed at Internet of Things and wearable devices. A custom low-power hardware architecture is also designed for the efficient deployment of SensorNet at embedded real-time systems. SensorNet performance is evaluated using three different case studies including physical activity monitoring, stand-alone tongue drive system, and stress detection, and it achieves an average detection accuracy of 98%, 96.2%, and 94% for each case study, respectively. We implement SensorNet using our custom hardware architecture on Xilinx FPGA (Artix-7) which on average consumes 246- $\mu \text{J}$ energy. To further reduce the power consumption, SensorNet is implemented using application-specified integrated circuit at the post layout level in 65-nm CMOS technology which consumes approximately $8\times $ lower power compared to the FPGA implementation. In addition, SensorNet is implemented on NVIDIA Jetson TX2 SoC (CPU + GPU) and compared to TX2 single-core CPU and GPU implementations, FPGA-based SensorNet obtains $15\times $ and $4\times $ improvement in energy consumption.
Corrosion properties of 304L stainless steel made by directed energy deposition additive manufacturing

Abstract The impact of microstructure and processing defects of directed energy deposition (DED) 304L stainless steel on its corrosion behavior was investigated. Materials produced by DED with heat inputs of 0.45 and 0.03 kJ/mm were compared to wrought 304L. Lack of fusion pores in the DED material controlled breakdown potential (Eb) to the first order, reducing it by up to 400 mV versus the base material in 0.6 M NaCl. The hierarchal control of these and other microstructure features, nanoscale oxides and δ-ferrite, and processing features on the Eb of DED 304L is addressed.
iSCORE: Using Technology and Imagery to Enhance Performance of Closed Motor Skills

This article provides coaches with a guide for using technology and imagery to improve athletes' sport performance of closed motor skills. During the associative phase of skill learning, when young...
Exceptional response to chemotherapy followed by concurrent radiotherapy and immunotherapy in a male with primary retroperitoneal serous Adenocarcinoma: a case report and literature review

Primary retroperitoneal serous adenocarcinoma (PRSA) is an extremely uncommon malignancy exclusively reported in females. Due to the rarity of the disease, it is difficult to establish a standardized treatment. We describe a unique case of PRSA in a 71-year-old male who presented with right-sided lower back pain and numbness. Magnetic resonance imaging identified a mass invading the adjacent psoas muscle and twelfth rib. Tissue biopsy confirmed poorly differentiated PRSA. Patient was initially treated with neoadjuvant carboplatin and paclitaxel chemotherapy regimen. This resulted in complete radiological resolution of the tumor. However, 12 weeks later, rapid recurrence was noted on follow-up CT scan. The patient was then treated with external radiotherapy with concurrent nivolumab, an anti-PD-1 antibody. The patient displayed a positive response to treatment with reduction in primary tumor and metastases and had a sustained disease control. Treatment with radiotherapy in combination with anti-PD-1 antibody could be an effective modality of management for PRSA.
Comparing Urine and Blood Screening Methods to Detect BK Virus After Renal Transplant.

Objectives BK polyomavirus can infect healthy individuals; however, in renal transplant recipients, it can cause nephropathy, which can lead to renal allograftfailure. There are currently no effective antiviral agents against BK polyomavirus. Surveillance after kidney transplant for BK polyomavirus is the only means to prevent allograft failure. Transplant centers routinely screen for BK polyomavirus in either urine or blood. If BK polyomavirus replication occurs, itis usually detected first in urine, which is followed by detection in blood in a subset of cases. Screening for BK polyomavirus in urine has the potential for earlier detection of viralreactivation.However, not all patients with BK polyomavirus in urine will progress to BK viremia. Therefore, adding urine screening could increase the cost oftests without a clear clinical benefit. Materials and methods We conducted an analysis of BK polyomavirus screening methods at 2 different centers and compared their clinical outcomes and efficiency of testing. Results We analyzed 209 patientswith BK polyomavirus reactivation after kidney transplant at 2 different institutions from 2008 to 2018. BK polyomavirus reactivation in blood was detected earlierifthe patient was screened by urine screening protocol. However, measurable clinical outcomes were similarin all groups with different screening methods. Conclusions Although screening for BK polyomavirus in urine did detect viralreactivation earlier,there were no differences in graft or clinical outcomes when either the urine or blood screening method was used.
Probing Changes in Pressure With Subpascal Resolution Using an Optical Fiber Fabry–Perot Interferometer

This article reports a novel optical fiber extrinsic Fabry–Perot interferometer (EFPI) for probing pressure changes with subpascal (~0.1 Pa, $\sim 1.45\times 10^{-5}$ psi) resolution. The principal idea of the sensor is to employ a traditional C-shaped Bourdon tube as a mechanical transducer that is coupled to a highly sensitive EFPI device. The cavity of the EFPI device is formed between a gold-coated mirror, mounted to a concave section of the Bourdon tube, and the endface of an optical fiber mounted at the base section of the Bourdon tube. Based on this design, the pressure-induced deflections of the Bourdon tube are directly correlated with the changes in cavity length of the EFPI, which can be determined by analyzing the interference signals. An experiment based on probing hydrostatic pressure changes induced by the addition of single water droplets to a test chamber was performed to quantify the measurement resolution of the proposed sensor because an apparatus for producing exceedingly small, stable, and reproducible pressure changes does not exist. Compared with conventional optical fiber pressure sensors, the proposed pressure sensor requires a simple fabrication process and can be used to measure pressure changes with high sensitivity ( $\sim 23.5~\mu \text{m}$ /kPa, cavity length change/pressure change). Moreover, the sensitivity and resolution of the pressure sensor can be flexibly adjusted using Bourdon tubes designed for different dynamic ranges (e.g., 0–70 MPa, 0–10152 psi). It is believed that the proposed novel pressure sensor has the potential to find a wide range of applications that require precise instrumentation.
Making Partisan Gerrymandering Fair: One Old and Two New Methods

Objective To introduce a novel way to make partisan gerrymandering fair. Methods In the context of two parties, divide a state into two geographical areas, each of which contain a number of districts that are roughly proportional to the share of the statewide vote received by each party in the last congressional elections. Allow each party to unilaterally design the districts in a designated area of the state, restricted only by traditional districting principles. Adaptations may be made to account for more than two parties. Results Each party gerrymanders but is limited to doing so in its designated area of the state, with results that are roughly proportional to the statewide vote. Conclusion “Fair gerrymandering” is a way to counter unfair partisan gerrymandering and it is likely to reduce the number of uncontested elections and increase voter turnout.
Mu2e Muon Beam Optimization

Mu2e is a new experiment under construction at Fermilab, which will search for coherent neutrinoless conversion of muons to electrons. In order to reach its projected single-event sensitivity of \(3 \times 10^{-17}\), Mu2e will create the most intense muon beam ever developed, with \(10^{10}\) muons per second stopping in the stopping target. Optimization of this muon beam for Mu2e will be discussed.
Using Quality Improvement Methodology to Reduce Costs while Improving Efficiency and Provider Satisfaction in a Busy, Academic Musculoskeletal Radiology Division

Within an everchanging healthcare system, continuous evaluation of standard operating procedures must be performed to ensure optimization of system level organization, communication, and efficiency. Using the Lean management approach, our institution introduced modifications to our musculoskeletal (MSK) radiology workflow in order to facilitate beneficial change that improved clinical workflow efficiency, reduced moonlighting costs, and improved radiologist satisfaction without sacrificing quality of care. The scope of our study included the MSK division of adult inpatient and outpatient populations at three hospitals in a single academic medical center. A root cause analysis was executed to determine the causative factors contributing to clinical inefficiency. Five main factors were identified, and appropriate countermeasures were introduced. Efficiency was measured via the turnaround time (TAT) for radiographic examinations, measured from exam completion to final report submission. Moonlighting expenses were monitored for the fiscal year in which the modifications were implemented. Surveys were administered to MSK radiologists before and after the countermeasures were introduced to determine subjective ratings of efficiency and satisfaction. The average TAT within our MSK division decreased from 40 h to 12 h after introducing changes to our workflow. During one fiscal year, moonlighting expenses decreased from $26,000 to $5000. Post-study survey results indicated increased efficiency of and satisfaction with our implemented modifications to the scheduling and clinical workflow. Optimization of our radiology department’s workflow led to increased productivity, efficiency, and radiologist satisfaction, as well as a reduction in moonlighting costs. This project leveraged Lean management principles to combat clinical inefficiency, waste time, and high costs.
Adhesin genes and biofilm formation among pediatric Staphylococcus aureus isolates from implant-associated infections.

Background Microbial surface component recognizing adhesive matrix molecules (MSCRAMMs) facilitate Staphylococcus aureus adherence to host tissue. We hypothesized that S. aureus isolates from implant-associated infections (IAIs) would differ in MSCRAMM profile and biofilm formation in vitro compared to skin and soft tissue infection (SSTI) isolates. Methods Pediatric patients and their isolates were identified retrospectively. IAI and SSTI isolates were matched (1:4). Pulsed field gel electrophoresis was performed to group isolates as USA300 vs. non-USA300. Whole genome sequencing was performed and raw sequence data were interrogated for presence of MSCRAMMs (clfA, clfB, cna, ebh, efb, fnbpA, fnbpB, isdA, isdB, sdrC, sdrD, sdrE), biofilm-associated (icaA,D,B,C), and Panton-Valentine leukocidin (lukSF-PV) genes, accessory gene regulator group, and multilocus sequence types. In vitro biofilm formation was assessed for 47 IAI and 47 SSTI isolates using a microtiter plate assay. Conditional logistic regression was performed for analysis of matched data (STATA11, College Station, TX). Results Forty-seven IAI and 188 SSTI isolates were studied. IAI isolates were more often methicillin susceptible S. aureus and non-USA300 vs. SSTI isolates [34 (72%) vs. 79 (42%), p = 0.001 and 38 (81%) vs. 57 (30%) p <0.001, respectively]. Greater than 98% of isolates carried clfA, clfB, efb, isdA, isdB, and icaA,D,B,C while cna was more frequently found among IAI vs. SSTI isolates (p = 0.003). Most isolates were strong biofilm producers. Conclusions S. aureus IAI isolates were significantly more likely to be MSSA and non-USA300 than SSTI isolates. Carriage of MSCRAMMs and biofilm formation did not differ significantly between isolates. Evaluation of genetic polymorphisms and gene expression profiles are needed to further delineate the role of adhesins in the pathogenesis of IAIs.
Abstract B28: A cross-species enhancer activity analysis approach to identify the Ewing sarcoma cell of origin

Ewing sarcoma is a malignant bone and soft tissue tumor in children and adolescents. In 85% of all cases the formation of Ewing sarcoma is caused by a chromosomal translocation, leading to the expression of the oncogene EWS-FLI1. This aberrant transcription factor is the main driver of the disease and leads to massive transcriptional dysregulation. Although the genetic mechanism driving Ewing sarcoma is well understood, an animal model adequately mimicking the disease is still lacking. One reason why modeling attempts have remained difficult is the elusive cell of origin in Ewing sarcoma. Several cell types including neural crest progenitor cells and mesenchymal stem cells have been proposed, but none of them has yet been confirmed as cell of origin of Ewing sarcoma. Towards identifying this cell of origin, we are currently following a novel cross-species approach by exploring the use of enhancers, which are specifically active in Ewing sarcoma cells, but were not created de novo by EWS-FLI1. Injection of reporter constructs into zebrafish embryos allows for visualization of cell types with activity of the selected enhancers and provides us with cell-of-origin candidate cell types. To investigate which of these candidate cells are permissive for development of Ewing-like tumors, we will also express EWS-FLI1 in these cells. If successful, this approach will not only reveal the Ewing sarcoma cell of origin but also result in a zebrafish Ewing sarcoma model, which will help to understand tumor initiation and progression and, furthermore, will be a valuable tool to develop novel therapeutic strategies. Citation Format: Sarah Grissenberger, Anna Poetsch, Monika Heinzl, Luisa Morelli, Nathan Sheffield, Niko Popitsch, Heinrich Kovar, Martin Distel. A cross-species enhancer activity analysis approach to identify the Ewing sarcoma cell of origin [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on the Advances in Pediatric Cancer Research; 2019 Sep 17-20; Montreal, QC, Canada. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(14 Suppl):Abstract nr B28.
Decentralized Ergodic Control: Distribution-Driven Sensing and Exploration for Multiagent Systems

We present a decentralized ergodic control policy for time-varying area coverage problems for multiple agents with nonlinear dynamics. Ergodic control allows us to specify distributions as objectives for area coverage problems for nonlinear robotic systems as a closed-form controller. We derive a variation to the ergodic control policy that can be used with consensus to enable a fully decentralized multiagent control policy. Examples are presented to illustrate the applicability of our method for multiagent terrain mapping as well as target localization. An analysis on ergodic policies as a Nash equilibrium is provided for game theoretic applications.
A Case of Fistula After Adjuvant External Beam Radiotherapy and Lenvatinib for High-Risk Follicular Thyroid Cancer

We present a 60-year-old man with recurrent follicular thyroid cancer (initially staged pT4aN0M0) with multiple high-risk features including poorly differentiated histology with insular component, extrathyroidal extension with involvement of the cricoid, trachea and esophagus, and recurrence after prior radioactive iodine treatment. He underwent extensive surgical resection including total laryngectomy, bilateral neck dissection, tracheal shave resection, and cricopharyngeal myotomy. A tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP) was performed with placement of a voice prosthesis. He was treated with adjuvant external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) to the neck. Subsequent systemic therapies included the antiangiogenic multi-kinase inhibitors lenvatinib and pazopanib. Over time, he developed a tracheoesophageal fistula requiring multiple surgical interventions, enteral feeding, and therapy changes. In this case report, we discuss risk factors for fistularization including TEP prosthesis, adjuvant EBRT, and antiangiogenic therapy, and we discuss strategies to minimize and manage treatment-related toxicities.
Rates of RNFL Thinning in Patients with Suspected or Confirmed Glaucoma Receiving Unilateral Intravitreal Injections for Exudative AMD

Purpose This study evaluated whether the rate of retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thinning is faster in eyes receiving intravitreal injections than in fellow uninjected eyes among patients suspected of having or confirmed to have glaucoma and exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Design Retrospective comparative cohort study. Methods Patients with a diagnosis of unilateral exudative AMD and confirmed to have or suspected of having glaucoma in both eyes receiving unilateral intravitreal injections were identified. Those with ≥3 RNFL optical coherence tomography scans and ≥6 injections were included in the study. Rates of RNFL thinning in the injected eye versus the uninjected eye were estimated using linear mixed models. The main outcome measurement was the differences in rates of RNFL thinning in the injected versus the fellow uninjected eye. The effects of postinjection elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP), injection frequency, and number of injections were also evaluated. Results A total of 53 patients met the inclusion criteria, receiving 26.4 ± 15.9 intravitreal injections. The average rate of RNFL thinning in uninjected eyes was −0.620 μm/year (P = .029). Injected eyes had an additional incremental loss of −0.385 μm/year, but this value was not statistically significant (95% confidence interval [CI]: −1.147 to 0.379 μm/year; P = .324). Subgroup analysis with only glaucoma patients (n = 33) also demonstrated a nonsignificant effect of injections (−0.568 μm/year; 95% CI: −1.454 to 0.319 μm/year; P = .212). Postinjection IOP elevation, injection frequency, and total number of injections were not associated with faster RNFL loss. Conclusions Among exudative AMD patients with glaucoma or suspected of having glaucoma, the rate of RNFL thinning in eyes receiving intravitreal injections did not significantly differ from that of fellow uninjected eyes.
When the technology abandonment intentions remitted: the case of herd behavior

The herd behavior of technology users, i.e., adopters observe the decisions (but not the reasoning) of prior adopters and imitate their system usage behaviors, is prominentin the information technology (IT) industry. However, such en mass adoptions areprone to be fragile. Adopters may reverse their decisions, after an initial adoption, andabandon system use when updated contradictory information is presented. This phenomenon of herd-like abandonment, at both individual and organizational levels, is significant and requires more investigation, since it is connected to the durability of particular products and technologies in the marketplace. In addition, IS behaviors of users at the later phases of IS life cycle, i.e., termination phase, are the primary source of benefit for organizations. This study develops and empirically validates a theoretical model of IS abandonment in a herding context. We test our model via a longitudinal research design, which surveys adopters at two different points in time. The study examines the determinants of adopters’ abandonment intentions, which occure specially after an initial en mass adoption (i.e., a herding setting). Results suggest that post-adoptive task-technology fit, perceptions of niche, and observation of a criticalmass of abandoners are all salient factors affecting IS abandonment intentions.
Function Follows Form: Gene Expression and Prenatal Screening.

To date, prenatal testing has relied on imaging to determine fetal ‘form’ (anatomy). ‘Function’, as ascertained by measuring fetal or placental mRNA transcripts in maternal blood, has the potential to more precisely determine which pregnancies need closer monitoring and which babies should be delivered in special care settings.
Intervenção antibullying no contexto escolar: Estudo de viabilidade

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a viabilidade de uma intervencao antibullying no contexto escolar, a partir de criterios quantitativos e qualitativos. A intervencao grupal, realizada em oito encontros semanais, foi aplicada a nove adolescentes dos anos finais do Ensino Fundamental de uma escola publica do Brasil. Os instrumentos utilizados foram: Medida de Avaliacao da intervencao, Ficha de Avaliacao do Observador e Diario de campo. Os aspectos quantitativos observados foram: adesao dos participantes a intervencao; habilidades sociais e integridade/fidelidade do moderador; satisfacao, clareza/compreensao e aplicacao dos conteudos na vida diaria. A Analise de Conteudo do tipo tematica identificou tres temas: Aplicacao das aprendizagens, Engajamento e protagonismo e Avaliacao da intervencao. Os resultados demonstraram uma avaliacao positiva da intervencao e da moderadora, com engajamento dos participantes nas atividades propostas. A partir da avaliacao, foram propostas alteracoes em algumas atividades da intervencao e alteracao em um item da Ficha de Avaliacao. Pode-se concluir que a proposta da intervencao tem potencial e e viavel para estudos futuros.
Governing Political Islam: An “Islamistphobic” Discourse in Egypt?

This paper analyzes what I define as an anti-Islamist discourse (or an “Islamistphobia”) both as a social reality and as conceptual innovation in contemporary Egypt. The paper focuses on four interrelated actors—the current Egyptian regime and its discourse on political Islam, the Muslim Brotherhood and its historical entanglements with the Egyptian state, the Salafi al-Nūr and Rāya Parties, and al-Azhar’s relation with both the regime and the Islamists. I advance an idea that anti-Islamist sentiments channel primarily through official (state) and media discourses in Egypt, rooted in both a colonialist locale and in a contemporary religious framework and its anticolonial rhetoric. It is, however, directed primarily against the Muslim Brotherhood, rather than against all Islamist groups across the board. Keywords: Anti-Islamist discourse, Islamistphobia, Muslim Brotherhood, Egypt, political Islam