cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Integrated Healthcare Delivery: A Qualitative Research Approach to Identifying and Harmonizing Perspectives of Integrated Neglected Tropical Disease Programs.

Background While some evidence supports the beneficial effects of integrating neglected tropical disease (NTD) programs to optimize coverage and reduce costs, there is minimal information regarding when or how to effectively operationalize program integration. The lack of systematic analyses of integration experiences and of integration processes may act as an impediment to achieving more effective NTD programming. We aimed to learn about the experiences of NTD stakeholders and their perceptions of integration. Methodology We evaluated differences in the definitions, roles, perceived effectiveness, and implementation experiences of integrated NTD programs among a variety of NTD stakeholder groups, including multilateral organizations, funding partners, implementation partners, national Ministry of Health (MOH) teams, district MOH teams, volunteer rural health workers, and community members participating in NTD campaigns. Semi-structured key informant interviews were conducted. Coding of themes involved a mix of applying in-vivo open coding and a priori thematic coding from a start list. Findings In total, 41 interviews were conducted. Salient themes varied by stakeholder, however dominant themes on integration included: significant variations in definitions, differential effectiveness of specific integrated NTD activities, community member perceptions of NTD programs, the influence of funders, perceived facilitators, perceived barriers, and the effects of integration on health system strength. In general, stakeholder groups provided unique perspectives, rather than contrarian points of view, on the same topics. The stakeholders identified more advantages to integration than disadvantages, however there are a number of both unique facilitators and challenges to integration from the perspective of each stakeholder group. Conclusions Qualitative data suggest several structural, process, and technical opportunities that could be addressed to promote more effective and efficient integrated NTD elimination programs. We highlight a set of ten recommendations that may address stakeholder concerns and perceptions regarding these key opportunities. For example, public health stakeholders should embrace a broader perspective of community-based health needs, including and beyond NTDs, and available platforms for addressing those needs.
Adaptive circadian rhythm estimator and its application to locomotor activity

Disruption of the circadian rhythm is detrimental to human well being, with consequences ranging from lower productivity, sleep disorder, to more serious health problems. Accurate estimation of circadian rhythm is critical to the assessment and treatment of circadian disruption. Circadian estimate is also essential for light-based circadian entrainment. Direct measurements of circadian rhythm markers such as dim light melatonin onset are inconvenient and acquired at best at low rate. Wearable continuous measurements such as actigraph and body temperature are convenient but masked by many other factors. In this paper, we present a new circadian rhythm estimation scheme based on adaptive notch filter (ANF) which is commonly used in signal processing. The ANF is designed to track the gain and phase of a single sinusoid from noisy data. We extend the classic ANF to multiple harmonics with non-zero bias needed in circadian rhythm tracking. The modified ANF is tested on rat and Drosophila locomotor activity data to extract circadian argument. The estimation results are compared with linear regression and gliding cosinor. The ability to generate circadian estimate opens up the tantalizing possibility of personalized circadian rhythm estimator and light therapy.
Fifty-year anniversary of the Vietnam Vascular Registry and a historic look at vascular registries

The management of arterial injuries has evolved from simple cauterization of the time of Ambrose Pare to the more complex repairs of today. Through history there has been much learned from combat regarding the management of vascular injuries. Starting in World War I, vascular registries have been established to further study and refine the management of these injuries. One of the most pivotal registries was the Vietnam Vascular Registry established by Dr Norman Rich. The lessons learned from these registries have been carried on to the current conflicts with the establishment of the Global War on Terror Vascular Initiative. We compare 100 lower extremity vascular injuries from the Vietnam Vascular Registry to 100 injuries in the Global War on Terror Vascular Initiative database as we continue to improve the future with lessons from our past.
Isolation and Characterization of Human ADAMTS13 Gene Promoter Region - Control of ADAMTS13 Gene Expression by Hepatic Transcription Factors and Inflammatory Cytokines.

ADAMTS13 ( A Disintegrin A nd M etalloprotease with T hrombo S pondin type 1 repeats-13) controls von Willebrand factor multimer sizes by cleaving the Tyr 1605 -Met 1606 bond in the central A2 domain. Deficiency of plasma ADAMTS13 activity can result in a lethal syndrome, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). ADAMTS13 is primarily synthesized in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), endothelial cells and megakaryocytes. We determined the transcription initiation site, the core region for promoter activity, the putative transcription factor binding sites as well as the influence of inflammatory cytokines on ADAMTS13 promoter activity. To explore the transcriptional control of ADAMTS13 gene expression, we constructed reporter genes containing 991 base pairs (bp) of the ADAMTS13 5′ untranslated (UT) region. We showed by deletion mutagenesis and luciferase reporter expression that the proximal-most 197 bp region was required for maximal luciferase activity in transfected cells in the human hepatic stellate cell line (LX-2) and in the human hepatocyte-like cell line (HepG2); the major transcription initiation site determined by 5′ - RACE was found at 77 bp upstream from the translation start site (ATG). However, the minimal sequences that were required for the promoter activity varied depending on the cells, with required sequences of approximately 147 and 127 bp in LX-2 and HepG2 cells, respectively. The proximal ADAMTS13 promoter region is evolutionally conserved between humans, mice and rats. This region is rich in GC content (72%) and contains putative binding sites for the transcription factors heat shock factor-2 (HSF2), FOXa2 [also named hepatocyte nuclear factor 3beta (HNF-3b)] and AP-1. A footprint assay demonstrated that the region between −116 and −126, containing the putative FOXa2 binding site, was largely protected by Dnase I digestion. The luciferase reporter activity was suppressed in cells transfected with the plasmid containing the proximal 314 bp human 5′ UT ADAMTS13 sequence in parallel with the inflammatory cytokines found to be elevated in patients with TTP: IL-4, TNF-alpha and INF-gamma. These inflammatory cytokines inhibited the Adamts13 mRNA and protein expression in rat primary HSCs in culture in a dose dependent manner. Approximately 70%, 71% and 80% of Adamts13 mRNA (by real time RT-PCR) and 77%, 78% and 92% of Adamts13 proteolytic activity (by FRETS-VWF73) were suppressed at 48 hours by IL-4 (10 ng/ml), TNF-alpha (10 ng/ml) and INF-gamma (100 ng/ml), respectively. We conclude that under physiological conditions ADAMTS13 synthesis may be strictly maintained at relatively low levels by binding transcription factors, whereas under pathological conditions inflammatory cytokines, released due to systemic inflammation, may further suppress ADAMTS13 gene expression, which may result in thrombotic complications. However, the mechanism regarding how the inflammatory cytokines negatively regulate ADAMTS13 (or Adamts13 ) synthesis remains to be determined.
Challenges and solutions for core power distribution network designs

Core power decoupling for modern processors or SOCs is a challenging task due to large power consumption. A conventional target impedance method can no longer be used in modern high-performance core PDN design. In this paper, we first demonstrate major issues and challenges in existing PDN modeling methodologies. Then, we present a comprehensive list of PDN improvements which significantly eliminates pessimism built in existing methods. In particular, we propose an improve VRM model to reduce the PCB bulk cap requirements, an accurate PCB decoupling frequency range to reduce the PCB SMC cap, a modified target impedance concept to account for realistic ramp time for large load change, and a novel timingbased PDN design methodology to further reduce any pessimism in traditional noise based PDN design methodology.
Wing shape and dynamic twist design of bio-inspired nano air vehicles for forward flight purposes

Abstract The wing shape and kinematics of flapping wing nano air vehicles play a crucial role in the effectiveness of the system. Optimizing these design parameters allows for greater endurance during flight due to a reduction in the needed aerodynamic power. In this study, seven insects' wings are considered in order to investigate which wing shape requires less amount of aerodynamic power for forward flight missions. A strip theory model is employed and verified for two types of birds, namely, Jack Daw, and Mew Gull. Then, this aerodynamic theory is utilized to model and optimize the kinematics of the seven wings with a particular investigation on the impacts of the dynamic twist on the performance of bio-inspired nano air vehicles. Each wing is divided into strips that are individually analyzed and integrated over the full wingspan to determine the needed aerodynamic power and propulsive efficiency. The use of this modified strip theory is beneficial because it includes the unsteady aerodynamic effects and the possible change in the wings' dimensions. A parametric study is then carried out to determine the optimum wing shape and associated dynamic twist of the flapping wing nano air vehicle when considering two scenarios. In the first scenario, the wingspan for all considered seven wing shapes is considered the same. As for the second scenario, the seven wing shapes are considered with same wing surface. The results show that for same wingspan and wing surface, the bio-inspired honeybee and bumblebee wing shapes have the optimum performances, respectively. The performed analysis gives guidelines on the optimum design of flapping wing nano air vehicles for forward flight applications.
Epidemiology of childhood brain tumors

Childhood brain tumors are the most common form of pediatric solid tumors. Significant improvements over the decades in the treatment of brain tumors in children have improved outcomes but mortality and morbidity are still high. Pediatric brain tumors are clinically and biologically distinct from those that occur in adults. Our understanding of risk factors in childhood brain tumors remains limited to several exposures of the head and neck to ionizing radiation and well-described hereditary cancer predisposition syndromes. In this chapter, we review the descriptive and analytic epidemiology of childhood brain tumors, including a discussion of the roles of radiation exposure, established predisposing syndromes, and other suspected risk factors.
Bimetallic Effect of Single Nanocatalysts Visualized by Super-Resolution Catalysis Imaging

Compared with their monometallic counterparts, bimetallic nanoparticles often show enhanced catalytic activity associated with the bimetallic interface. Direct quantitation of catalytic activity at the bimetallic interface is important for understanding the enhancement mechanism, but challenging experimentally. Here using single-molecule super-resolution catalysis imaging in correlation with electron microscopy, we report the first quantitative visualization of enhanced bimetallic activity within single bimetallic nanoparticles. We focus on heteronuclear bimetallic PdAu nanoparticles that present a well-defined Pd–Au bimetallic interface in catalyzing a photodriven fluorogenic disproportionation reaction. Our approach also enables a direct comparison between the bimetallic and monometallic regions within the same nanoparticle. Theoretical calculations further provide insights into the electronic nature of N–O bond activation of the reactant (resazurin) adsorbed on bimetallic sites. Subparticle activity co...
Ex Proprio Vigore and the Insular Cases

Kruse probes the historical and constitutional foray of America’s sphere of influence at the turn of the twentieth century as the national debate seethed over what was or was not desirable possessions. The chapter’s trajectory begins with the 1900 presidential election that was turned into a referendum on colonialism while the expansionists expounded on the duty and moral obligation of America to civilize and govern alien “backward races.” Kruse examines the 1890s US Supreme Court justices’ articles in the Harvard Law Review that provided the terminology appropriated by the US Congress to create the framework for two separate legal classifications of US territories: incorporated and unincorporated. Kruse unfolds how the unincorporated and incorporated status shields American Sāmoa to operate customary practices of nobility and alienation of lands to non-American Sāmoans. The US Supreme Court concocted a matrix of individualized laws, termed the “Insular Cases,” had no discernible consistent legal foundation.
Assessment of immunohistochemical testing for androgen receptor splice variant 7 as a biomarker to predict resistance to androgen receptor signaling inhibitors in metastatic prostate cancer.

308Background: Androgen receptor splice variant 7 (AR-V7) has been shown to confer resistance to androgen receptor signaling inhibitors (ARS-I) such as enzalutamide (enza) and abiraterone (abi). Resistance can be observed at the time of initial treatment, or may be acquired later in the disease course. Prior research has primarily focused on AR-V7 expression in circulating tumor cells (CTCs) but the utility of more affordable immunohistochemical (IHC) testing to predict for primary resistance to ARS-I remains unknown, which is of particular relevance as ARS-I gain use as initial therapy. Methods: We identified patients in the South Texas Veterans Health Administration Tumor Registry with metastatic, castrate-resistant prostate cancer who received ARS-I since 2011. IHC for AR-V7 staining was validated on controls and performed on tissue from the most recent tissue specimen (diagnostic biopsy, prostatectomy, or biopsy of a metastatic site) on all identified patients with adequate tissue available. Results: ...
ALDH1A1 positive cells are a unique component of the tonsillar crypt niche and are lost along with NGFR positive stem cells during tumourigenesis

Summary Interest into the cellular biology of human tonsillar crypts has grown in recent years because it is now known to be the site of origin of most human papilloma virus (HPV) induced oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas (OPSCC). Despite the interest, still relatively little is known regarding the cellular hierarchy and dynamics of this anatomical subsite. Here we evaluate normal tonsillar crypts for expression of putative stem cell markers. We found that ALDH1A1 was uniquely expressed in a subset of suprabasal tonsillar crypt epithelium. This cell population was unique from NGFR expressing cells, which were previously identified to have stem/progenitor activity in vitro. In vivo mitochondrial lineage tracing was consistent with a basal to luminal progression of cellular development. This provides support for NGFR cells as the resident stem/progenitor cells in tonsillar crypts, and suggests that the ALDH1A1 cells are not stem/progenitor cells, but merely a unique component of the crypt cellular microenvironment. Analysis of tumours found that both NGFR and ALDH1A1 are lost in HPV+ and HPV– tumours, while LGR5 expression is induced in the same tumours. These results identify a unique component of the tonsillar crypt epithelium—ALDH1A1 cells—and support a cellular model where NGFR+ cells are the long-lived progenitor cells within tonsillar crypts. They also provide evidence that NGFR and ALDH1A1+ cells are lost during tumourigenesis.
Fostering student success in the campus community

About the Authors. Foreword. Preface. Acknowledgments. P ART I: Communicating Expectations. 1. Knowing Today's and Tomorrow's Students ( Vasti Torres ). 2. Creating a Student-Centered Culture ( Jillian Kinzie and George D. Kuh ). 3. Aligning Expectations: A Shared Responsibility ( Thomas E. Miller and Saul Reyes ). 4. Changing Student Services Through Assessment ( John H. Schuh ). 5. Promoting and Sustaining Change ( Earl H. Potter III ). P ART II: Connecting Services. 6. Putting Students First in College Admissions and Enrollment Management ( Don Hossler ). 7. Connecting One-Stop Student Services ( Louise M. Lonabocker and J. James Wager ). 8. Learning Technologies that Serve Students ( Peter B. DeBlois and Diana G. Oblinger ). 9. Giving Advice that Makes a Difference ( Wesley R. Habley and Jennifer L. Bloom ). 10. Planning Good Academic and Career Decisions ( Emily E. Bullock, Robert C. Reardon, and Janet G. Lenz ). P ART III: Fostering Student Development. 11. Learning Partnerships ( Terry D. Piper and Rebecca A. Mills ). 12. Developing Students' Search for Meaning and Purpose ( Lois Calian Trautvetter ). 13. Organizing Student Services for Learning ( Dave Porter, Joe Bagnoli, Janice Burdette Blythe, Donald Hudson, and Deanna Sergel ). 14. Preparing Service Providers to Foster Student Success ( Tom Brown and Lee Ward ). 15. Engaging Faculty to Foster Student Development ( Faye Vowell ). P ART IV: Achieving Success. 16. Intervening to Retain Students ( Wesley R. Habley and John H. Schuh ). 17. Achieving Student Success in the First Year of College ( Randy L. Swing and Tracy L. Skipper ). 18. Achieving Student Success in Two-Year Colleges ( Margaret C. King and Rusty N. Fox ). 19. Putting Students First in the Campus Community ( Gary L. Kramer (with Thomas J. Grites, Eric R. White, Michael A. Haynes, Virginia N. Gordon, Michael McCauley,Wesley R. Habley, and Margaret C. King ). 20. Fostering Student Success: What Really Matters? ( Gary L. Kramer ). Name Index. Subject Index.
Spinal muscular atrophy within Amish and Mennonite populations: Ancestral haplotypes and natural history.

We correlate chromosome 5 haplotypes and SMN2 copy number with disease expression in 42 Mennonite and 14 Amish patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). A single haplotype (A1) with 1 copy of SMN2 segregated among all Amish patients. SMN1 deletions segregated on four different Mennonite haplotypes that carried 1 (M1a, M1b, M1c) or 2 (M2) copies of SMN2. DNA microsatellite and microarray data revealed structural similarities among A1, M1a, M1b, and M2. Clinical data were parsed according to both SMN1 genotype and SMN2 copy number (2 copies, n = 44; 3 copies, n = 9; or 4 copies, n = 3). No infant with 2 copies of SMN2 sat unassisted. In contrast, all 9 Mennonites with the M1a/M2 genotype (3 copies of SMN2) sat during infancy at a median age of 7 months, and 5 (56%) walked and dressed independently at median ages of 18 and 36 months, respectively. All are alive at a median age of 11 (range 2–31) years without ventilatory support. Among 13 Amish and 26 Mennonite patients with 2 copies of SMN2 who did not receive feeding or ventilatory support, A1/A1 as compared to M1a/M1a genotype was associated with earlier clinical onset (p = 0.0040) and shorter lifespan (median survival 3.9 versus 5.7 months, p = 0.0314). These phenotypic differences were not explained by variation in SMN1 deletion size or SMN2 coding sequence, which were conserved across haplotypes. Distinctive features of SMA within Plain communities provide a population-specific framework to study variations of disease expression and the impact of disease-modifying therapies administered early in life.
Implications of different nitrogen input sources for potential production and carbon flux estimates in the coastal Gulf of Mexico (GOM) and Korean Peninsula coastal waters

Abstract. The coastal Gulf of Mexico (GOM) and coastal sea off the Korean Peninsula (CSK) both suffer from human-induced eutrophication. We used a nitrogen (N) mass balance model in two different regions with different nitrogen input sources to estimate organic carbon fluxes and predict future carbon fluxes under different model scenarios. The coastal GOM receives nitrogen predominantly from the Mississippi and Atchafalaya rivers and atmospheric nitrogen deposition is only a minor component in this region. In the CSK, groundwater and atmospheric nitrogen deposition are more important controlling factors. Our model includes the fluxes of nitrogen to the ocean from the atmosphere, groundwater and rivers, based on observational and literature data, and identifies three zones (brown, green and blue waters) in the coastal GOM and CSK with different productivity and carbon fluxes. Based on our model results, the potential primary production rate in the inner (brown water) zone are over 2 gC m −2 d −1 (GOM) and 1.5 gC m −2 d −1 (CSK). In the middle (green water) zone, potential production is from 0.1 to 2 (GOM) and 0.3 to 1.5 gC m −2 d −1 (CSK). In the offshore (blue water) zone, productivity is less than 0.1 (GOM) and 0.3 (CSK) gC m −2 d −1 . Through our model scenario results, overall oxygen demand in the GOM will increase approximately 21 % if we fail to reduce riverine N input, likely increasing considerably the area affected by hypoxia. Comparing the results from the USA with those from the Korean Peninsula shows the importance of considering both riverine and atmospheric inputs of nitrogen. This has direct implications for investigating how changes in energy technologies can lead to changes in the production of various atmospheric contaminants that affect air quality, climate and the health of local populations.
All Survivors Have the Right to Heal: A #Metoomen Content Analysis

ABSTRACTWhile similarities exist between male and female survivors of sexual assault, unique barriers often prohibit males from speaking out about their experiences. The me too hashtag was created ...
Machine learning models accurately predict ozone exposure during wildfire events.

Abstract Epidemiologists use prediction models to downscale (i.e., interpolate) air pollution exposure where monitoring data is insufficient. This study compares machine learning prediction models for ground-level ozone during wildfires, evaluating the predictive accuracy of ten algorithms on the daily 8-hour maximum average ozone during a 2008 wildfire event in northern California. Models were evaluated using a leave-one-location-out cross-validation (LOLO CV) procedure to account for the spatial and temporal dependence of the data and produce more realistic estimates of prediction error. LOLO CV avoids both the well-known overly optimistic bias of k-fold cross-validation on dependent data and the conservative bias of evaluating prediction error over a coarser spatial resolution via leave-k-locations-out CV. Gradient boosting was the most accurate of the ten machine learning algorithms with the lowest LOLO CV estimated root mean square error (0.228) and the highest LOLO CV R ˆ 2 (0.677). Random forest was the second best performing algorithm with an LOLO CV R ˆ 2 of 0.661. The LOLO CV estimates of predictive accuracy were less optimistic than 10-fold CV estimates for all ten models. The difference in estimated accuracy between the 10-fold CV and LOLO CV was greater for more flexible models like gradient boosting and random forest. The order of estimated model accuracy depended on the choice of evaluation metric, indicating that 10-fold CV and LOLO CV may select different models or sets of covariates as optimal, which calls into question the reliability of 10-fold CV for model (or variable) selection. These prediction models are designed for interpolating ozone exposure, and are not suited to inferring the effect of wildfires on ozone or extrapolating to predict ozone in other spatial or temporal domains. This is demonstrated by the inability of the best performing models to accurately predict ozone during 2007 southern California wildfires.
Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Identifies Yes-Associated Protein 1-Dependent Hepatic Mesothelial Progenitors in Fibrolamellar Carcinoma.

Fibrolamellar carcinoma (FLC) is characterized by in-frame fusion of DnaJ heat shock protein family (Hsp40) member B1 (DNAJB1) with protein kinase cAMP-activated catalytic subunit α (PRKACA) and by dense desmoplasia. Surgery is the only effective treatment because mechanisms supporting tumor survival are unknown. We used single-cell RNA sequencing to characterize a patient-derived FLC xenograft model and identify therapeutic targets. Human FLC cells segregated into four discrete clusters that all expressed the oncogene Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1). The two communities most enriched with cells coexpressing FLC markers [CD68, A-kinase anchoring protein 12 (AKAP12), cytokeratin 7, epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EPCAM), and carbamoyl palmitate synthase-1] also had the most cells expressing YAP1 and its proproliferative target genes (AREG and CCND1), suggesting these were proliferative FLC cell clusters. The other two clusters were enriched with cells expressing profibrotic YAP1 target genes, ACTA2, ELN, and COL1A1, indicating these were fibrogenic FLC cells. All clusters expressed the YAP1 target gene and mesothelial progenitor marker mesothelin, and many mesothelin-positive cells coexpressed albumin. Trajectory analysis predicted that the four FLC communities were derived from a single cell type transitioning among phenotypic states. After establishing a novel FLC cell line that harbored the DNAJB1-PRKACA fusion, YAP1 was inhibited, which significantly reduced expression of known YAP1 target genes as well as cell growth and migration. Thus, both FLC epithelial and stromal cells appear to arise from DNAJB1-PRKACA fusion in a YAP1-dependent liver mesothelial progenitor, identifying YAP1 as a target for FLC therapy.
Grain boundary engineering of power inductor cores for MHz applications

Abstract In this article we present the latest trends in processing, composition, theory, and utility of spinel ferrites for use as power inductor cores for a wide range of applications including power generation, conversion, and conditioning at MHz frequencies. Furthermore, it is a principle goal of this article to examine state of the art approaches and innovative methodologies to engineer grain boundary regions in composition, structure, and electrical and magnetic properties that allow spinel ferrites to operate at frequencies well above the state of technology (i.e., f > 1 MHz) with low core power loss while concomitantly maintaining high efficiency, high permeability and saturation induction.
Titan aerogravity-assist maneuvers for Saturn/Enceladus missions

Abstract Mission analysis using aerogravity-assist (AGA) maneuver at Titan is presented in this paper. Considering Saturn arrival, Titan encounter, and different post-AGA orbits, the analysis uses vector diagrams to illustrate the relations among all conditions as well as design constraints. The analysis focuses on Enceladus mission concept and also present a summary result for Cassini-type Saturn system missions. Turn angles using AGA maneuver at Titan are quantified via numerical simulation, showing that 25-deg AGA turn angles are achievable with a Titan inbound excess velocity ( V ∞ , IN ) of 10–20 km/s. Results show that for an Enceladus mission, V ∞ , IN of 10 km/s is the minimum velocity required for AGA maneuver to achieve an outbound transfer orbit directly to Enceladus; the corresponding peak g-load is less than 6 g, peak heat rate less than 200 W/cm2, and total heat load of around 25 kJ/cm2. For a Cassini-type Saturn mission, a minimum V ∞ , IN of 5 km/s can be used for Titan AGA. The results showed are for V ∞ , IN of 6 km/s; and the corresponding peak g-load, peak heat rate, and total heat load are 1.5 g, 20 W/cm2, and 5 kJ/cm2 respectively.
Blood Management in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Nationwide Analysis from 2011 to 2018

Both advances in perioperative blood management, anesthesia, and surgical technique have improved transfusion rates following primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and have driven substantial change in preoperative blood ordering protocols. Therefore, blood management in TKA has seen substantial changes with the implementation of preoperative screening, patient optimization, and intra- and postoperative advances. Thus, the purpose of this study was to examine changes in blood management in primary TKA, a nationwide sample, to assess gaps and opportunities. The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was used to identify TKA (n = 337,160) cases from 2011 to 2018. The following variables examined, such as preoperative hematocrit (HCT), anemia (HCT 2.0, bleeding disorders, preoperative, and postoperative transfusions. Analysis of variances were used to examine changes in continuous variables, and Chi-squared tests were used for categorical variables. There was a substantial decrease in postoperative transfusions from high of 18.3% in 2011 to a low of 1.0% in 2018, (p 2.0 of 1.0% in 2012 to 2015 and a low of 0.8% in 2016 to 2018 (p = 0.027). There was a high incidence of bleeding disorders of 2.9% in 2013 and a low of 1.8% in 2017 to 2018 (p
Wearable sensors for enhanced warfighter protection and performance

Military service members, whether in training or deployed, are exposed to extreme conditions that jeopardize their health, safety, and performance. New sensors that enable real-time monitoring of warfighter capabilities will not only enhance their performance but also prevent injuries. This presentation showcases how stimuli-responsive materials coupled with unique measurement strategies/algorithms can provide new data streams and insights on warfighter health and performance. The focus will be on recent developments in nanocomposite wearable sensors for physical and physiological monitoring. In addition, densely distributed motion and muscular engagement monitoring can be achieved when wearable sensors are coupled with tomographic methods.
Silane compatibilzation to improve the dispersion, thermal and mechancial properties of cellulose nanocrystals in poly (ethylene oxide)

Cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) has potential to be used as a reinforcement in polymeric nanocomposites because of their inherent biodegradability, universal accessibility, and superior mechanical prop...
The church bridge project focus group results: African American perspectives of weight management programs to improve nutrition and physical activity behaviors.

Background The prevalence of obesity is disproportionately high among African Americans in the Southern US. More information is needed about factors that influence participation in nutrition and physical activity programs to promote healthy weight. Objective The purpose of this study is to explore the weight management perceptions of young to middle aged adult African Americans. Methods The Church Bridge Project intervention participants were recruited for two focus groups. Qualitative data were recorded, transcribed and a thematic content analysis was conducted to identify major themes. Results Barriers included technology learning curve/burden and competing priorities. Facilitators included support, limited cost, convenience, and health. Participants perceived the term "weight management" program as overwhelming and defeating. Conclusion The Church Bridge Project model confirmed social support and disease prevention as key factors for weight management. Further work should substantiate social support as a key factor to guide minority health efforts.
Motor unit number in a small facial muscle, dilator naris

A loss of functioning motor units underlies many neuromuscular disorders. The facial nerve innervates the muscles of facial expression, including nasal muscles, which also play an important role in the regulation of airflow resistance. It is difficult to accurately assess motor unit number in the facial muscles, because the muscles are difficult to activate in isolation. Here, we apply the manual McComas method to estimate the number of motor units in a nasal dilator muscle. EMG of the dilator naris was recorded during graded stimulation of the zygomatic branch of the facial nerve in 26 subjects (12 males and 14 females), aged 20–41 years. Each subject was studied twice, on separate days, to estimate method reproducibility. As a check on our use of the McComas method, we also estimated motor unit number in the first dorsal interosseus muscle (FDI) of six subjects, as the muscle is also small and has been studied with the McComas method. Reproducibility was evaluated with a rigorous statistical approach, the Bland–Altman procedure. We estimate that dilator naris is composed of 75 ± 15.6 (SD) motor units, compared to 144 ± 35.5 in FDI. The coefficient of variation for test–retest reproducibility of dilator naris motor unit estimates was 29.6 %, similar to separate-day reproducibility reported for other muscles. Recording and stimulation were done with surface electrodes, and the recordings were of high quality and reproducible. This simple technique could be applied clinically to track motor neuron loss and to monitor facial nerve integrity.
Lifestyle and Aging

Publisher Summary Lifestyle is a defining attribute of social life and a key concept in social gerontology. It is viewed as both the cause and consequence and is used as a construct to explicate preferences, as modes of living, and as an indicator of social standing. Psychological conceptualizations of lifestyle focus on an array of individual-level attributes, activities, or behaviors underpinning patterns of experience. The three dimensions of lifestyle are cognitions, conditions, and change. Cognition is commonly conceived as mental schema or thinking patterns used to make, justify, or rationalize choices. Conditions influencing lifestyles are defined in two ways: intra- and inter-individual. The first is conceived in terms of internal states, including heredity, intelligence, or personality factors influencing how individuals engage the ebb and flow of events. The second facet of conditions refers to external circumstances—physical or interpersonal—including family, interaction partners or social relations that undergird an individual's propensity to engage in one or another patterned form of behavior. The third dimension of lifestyles is concerned with change, and it, too, derives from a combination of internal psychological characteristics and in situ factors that may destabilize an individual's actual or perceived competence.
Antibody-mediated destruction of virus-infected cells.

Publisher Summary This chapter describes the effect of antibody on virus-infected cells with special reference to the human system. The destruction by antibody of the infected cells through the mediation of complement is described in detail based in considerable part on the contributions of the authors. Activation of the alternative pathway by the various infected cells is of special interest. The interesting effect of the antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) system involving viral antigens in cell killing is also presented. Multiple additional topics are also covered, such as the effect of antibody on the expression of viral proteins both on the surface of the cell and intracellularly. Serum antibody, produced in response to virus infections, is of major importance in preventing the spread of infection by virtue of neutralizing free virus in extracellular fluids. Virus neutralization by antibody is enhanced by complement. Antibody binding to the surface of virus-infected cells can affect virus production and release in the absence of an effector system. Immunoglobulin (IgG) antibody can mediate the destruction of virus-infected cells in conjunction with complement or cytotoxic lymphocytes. In addition, at a conceptual level there is evidence to suggest that antibody may enhance and confer specificity on basic nonspecific humoral and cell-mediated defense mechanisms.
Optimization of an MP3 decoder on the ARM processor

MPEG-1/2 audio layer-3 (MP3) is the must popular format for playback of high quality compressed audio for portable devices such as audio players and mobile phones. Typically these devices are based on either DSP or RISC processors. While the DSP architecture is more efficient for implementing the MP3 algorithm, the challenges a RISC implementation are lesser understood. This paper describes the challenges and optimization techniques useful for implementing the MP3 decoder algorithm on the RISC-based ARM9TDMI processor. Some of these techniques are generic and hence applicable to the any audio codec implementation on RISC-based platforms. Our results, which are among the best in the industry, indicate that stereo MP3 at 44 kHz and 128 kbps can be decoded using 27 MIPS on the ARM9TDMI. In addition, the output of our decoder is fully bit-compliant with the standard on the ISO test vectors.
Robust nonlinear control of a pH neutralization process

The authors (1998), proposed an analysis-based nonlinear controller design procedure that has the ability to address unstable zero dynamics, unmeasured states, disturbances, and measurement noise. Here this procedure is applied to a pH neutralization process which was selected for its significant nonlinearity and relative simplicity. pH controllers are designed that optimize the desired closed loop speed of response while satisfying robust stability or disturbance suppression constraints.
Meningitis Due to Haemophilus influenzae Type e

Haemophilus influenzae type e was isolated from the cerebrospinal fluid and blood of an 8-month-old child with meningitis.
A Modified 3-Omega Technique to Measure Thermal Conductivity in Liquids, Gases, and Powders

A novel modified 3ω thermal conductivity measurement technique called metal coated 3ω is introduced for use with liquids, gases, and powders. This technique employs a micron-scale metal coated glass fiber. Metal coated 3ω exceeds alternate 3ω based fluid sensing techniques in a number of key metrics including fraction of heat generated entering fluid, signal strength per temperature oscillation intensity and thermal boundary sensitivity. The advantages of this technique to Transient Hot-Wire (THW) and steady-state techniques are also discussed. A generalized n-layer concentric cylindrical periodic heating solution that accounts for thermal boundary resistance is presented. The technique is validated through a benchmark study of gases and liquids.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Structure and sediment distribution in the western Bering Sea

Abstract Eleven seismic reflection profiles across Shirshov Ridge and the adjacent deep-water sedimentary basins (Komandorsky and Aleutian Basins) are presented to illustrate the sediment distribution in the western Bering Sea. A prominent seismic reflecting horizon, Reflector P (Middle—Late Miocene in age), is observed throughout both the Aleutian and Komandorsky Basins at an approximate subbottom depth of 1 km. This reflector is also present, in places, on the flanks and along the crest of Shirshov Ridge. The thickness of sediments beneath Reflector P is significantly different within the two abyssal basins. In the Aleutian Basin, the total subbottom depth to acoustic basement (basalt?) is about 4 km, while in the Komandorsky Basin the depth is about 2 km. Shirshov Ridge, a Cenozoic volcanic feature that separates the Aleutian and Komandorsky Basins, is an asymmetric bathymetric ridge characterized by thick sediments along its eastern flank and steep scarps on its western side. The southern portion of the ridge has more structural relief that includes several deep, sediment-filled basins along its summit. Velocity data from sonobuoy measurements indicate that acoustic basement in the Komandorsky Basin has an average compressional wave velocity of 5.90 km/sec. This value is considerably larger than the velocities measured for acoustic basement in the northwestern Aleutian Basin (about 5.00 km/sec) and in the central Aleutian Basin (5.40–5.57 km/sec). In the northwestern Aleutian Basin, the low-velocity acoustic basement may be volcaniclastic sediments or other indurated sediments that are overlying true basaltic basement. A refracting horizon with similar velocities (4.6–5.0 km/sec) as acoustic basement dips steeply beneath the Siberian continental margin, reaching a maximum subbottom depth of about 8 km. The thick welt of sediment at the base of the Siberian margin may be the result of sediment loading or tectonic depression prior to Late Cenozoic time.
Neutralization of negatively charged oligonucleotides

Abstract Negative ions of small oligonucleotides are shown to undergo collisional and collision-free neutralization following matrix assisted laser desorption and ionization (MALDI). Using a modified MALDI time of flight instrument, approximate collisional cross sections and collision-free lifetimes have been measured for negative ions of 3-, 4-, 6- and 7-mer oligonucleotides. Collisional cross sections were on the order of 10−14 cm2, with collision-free lifetimes on the order of 10–100 μs. The evidence suggests that the collision-free lifetime may be decreasing with increasing biopolymer size. Implications of this neutralization process on MALDI-TOF experiments and TOF based DNA sequencing schemes are also discussed.
Frontal imaging of human using three-element Doppler and direction-of-arrival radar

A two-dimensional Doppler and direction-of-arrival (DDOA) radar concept is proposed for the frontal imaging of humans. The system consists of a three-element receiver array configured to provide simultaneous DOA measurements in the azimuth and elevation planes. An experimental system has been built and tested. Two-dimensional frontal images of a human in free space as well as in a through-wall scenario are generated.
Early suppressive antiretroviral therapy in HIV infection is associated with measurable changes in the corpus callosum

The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of early suppressive antiretroviral therapy (ART) on brain structure and neurocognitive outcomes. We conducted an observational study of subjects within 1 year of HIV infection. Ten ART-naive and 10 ART-suppressed individuals were matched for age and infection duration and age-matched to 10 HIV-seronegative controls. Quantitative brain imaging and neurocognitive data were analyzed. Subjects on suppressive ART had diminished corpus callosum structural integrity on macromolecular and microstructural imaging, higher cerebrospinal fluid percent, higher depression scores, and lower functional performance. Early suppressive ART may alter the trajectory of neurological progression of HIV infection, particularly in the corpus callosum.
Reactions of Alkynes and Olefins with Tantalum Hydrides Containing Aryloxide Ancillary Ligation: Relevance to Catalytic Hydrogenation†

The reactivity of the three hydride compounds [Ta(OC6H3Ph2-2,6)2(H)2Cl(PMe3)2] (1), [Ta(OC6H3Pri2-2,6)2(H)2Cl(PMe2Ph)2] (2), and [Ta(OC6H3But2-2,6)2(H)2Cl(PMePh2)] (3) toward olefins and alkynes has been investigated. The reactivity observed is highly dependent on the nature of the ancillary aryloxide ligands. The 2,6-diphenylphenoxide 1 reacts with styrene to produce 1 equiv of ethylbenzene and the styrene adduct [Ta(OC6H3Ph2-2,6)2(η2-CH2CHPh)Cl(PMe3)] (5). In contrast, 1 reacts with 3-hexyne to eliminate H2 along with formation of the analogous alkyne complex 6. Structural studies of 5 and 6 show a square-pyramidal geometry with an axial olefin (alkyne) unit lying along the Cl−Ta−P axis. Structural parameters support a tantalacyclopropane (tantalacyclopropene) bonding picture for these molecules. Compound 5 is converted back into 1 under H2 along with formation of PhEt. The dihydride 2 reacts with styrene to form 1 equiv of PhEt, H2, and the dehydrogenation product [Ta(OC6H3Pri-η2-CMeCH2)(OC6H3Pri2-2,6)...
Profound Bradycardia Related to Long Bone Fracture Manipulation

A 69-year-old male presented to the Emergency Department (ED) with a left comminuted femur fracture. Manipulation of the fractured leg resulted in profound bradycardia, necessitating cessation of the procedure in the ED. Various causes of sinus bradycardia, including vagal-mediated responses, as well as management of vagal-mediated bradycardia are discussed.
Diabetes and age-related demographic differences in risk factor control.

Disparate vascular outcomes in diabetes by race and/or ethnicity may reflect differential risk factor control, especially pre-Medicare. Assess concurrent target attainment for glycohemoglobin 2, P < .001). Risk factor awareness and treatment were lower in Hispanics than whites. When treated, diabetes and hypertension control were greater in whites than blacks or Hispanics. Concurrent risk factor control is low in all diabetics and could improve with greater statin use. Insuring younger adults, especially Hispanic, could raise risk factor awareness and treatment. Improving treatment effectiveness in younger black and Hispanic diabetics could promote equitable risk factor control.
Random Restarts in Minimum Error Rate Training for Statistical Machine Translation

Och's (2003) minimum error rate training (MERT) procedure is the most commonly used method for training feature weights in statistical machine translation (SMT) models. The use of multiple randomized starting points in MERT is a well-established practice, although there seems to be no published systematic study of its benefits. We compare several ways of performing random restarts with MERT. We find that all of our random restart methods outperform MERT without random restarts, and we develop some refinements of random restarts that are superior to the most common approach with regard to resulting model quality and training time.
Type III secretion system genes of Dickeya dadantii 3937 are induced by plant phenolic acids.

Background Dickeya dadantii is a broad-host range phytopathogen. D. dadantii 3937 (Ech3937) possesses a type III secretion system (T3SS), a major virulence factor secretion system in many Gram-negative pathogens of plants and animals. In Ech3937, the T3SS is regulated by two major regulatory pathways, HrpX/HrpY-HrpS-HrpL and GacS/GacA-rsmB-RsmA pathways. Although the plant apoplast environment, low pH, low temperature, and absence of complex nitrogen sources in media have been associated with the induction of T3SS genes of phytobacteria, no specific inducer has yet been identified. Methodology/Principal Findings In this work, we identified two novel plant phenolic compounds, o-coumaric acid (OCA) and t-cinnamic acid (TCA), that induced the expression of T3SS genes dspE (a T3SS effector), hrpA (a structural protein of the T3SS pilus), and hrpN (a T3SS harpin) in vitro. Assays by qRT-PCR showed higher amounts of mRNA of hrpL (a T3SS alternative sigma factor) and rsmB (an untranslated regulatory RNA), but not hrpS (a σ54-enhancer binding protein) of Ech3937 when these two plant compounds were supplemented into minimal medium (MM). However, promoter activity assays using flow cytometry showed similar promoter activities of hrpN in rsmB mutant Ech148 grown in MM and MM supplemented with these phenolic compounds. Compared with MM alone, only slightly higher promoter activities of hrpL were observed in bacterial cells grown in MM supplemented with OCA/TCA. Conclusion/Significance The induction of T3SS expression by OCA and TCA is moderated through the rsmB-RsmA pathway. This is the first report of plant phenolic compounds that induce the expression T3SS genes of plant pathogenic bacteria.