cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Natural language processing as an alternative to manual reporting of colonoscopy quality metrics

Background and Aims The adenoma detection rate (ADR) is a quality metric tied to interval colon cancer occurrence. However, manual extraction of data to calculate and track the ADR in clinical practice is labor-intensive. To overcome this difficulty, we developed a natural language processing (NLP) method to identify adenomas and sessile serrated adenomas (SSAs) in patients undergoing their first screening colonoscopy. We compared the NLP-generated results with that of manual data extraction to test the accuracy of NLP and report on colonoscopy quality metrics using NLP. Methods Identification of screening colonoscopies using NLP was compared with that using the manual method for 12,748 patients who underwent colonoscopies from July 2010 to February 2013. Also, identification of adenomas and SSAs using NLP was compared with that using the manual method with 2259 matched patient records. Colonoscopy ADRs using these methods were generated for each physician. Results NLP correctly identified 91.3% of the screening examinations, whereas the manual method identified 87.8% of them. Both the manual method and NLP correctly identified examinations of patients with adenomas and SSAs in the matched records almost perfectly. Both NLP and the manual method produced comparable values for ADRs for each endoscopist and for the group as a whole. Conclusions NLP can correctly identify screening colonoscopies, accurately identify adenomas and SSAs in a pathology database, and provide real-time quality metrics for colonoscopy.
Feedback Control of p53 Translation by REDD1 and mTORC1 Limits the p53-Dependent DNA Damage Response

Exquisite control of the level and activity of p53 are required in order to preserve cellular homeostasis following DNA damage. How this regulation is integrated with other key metabolic pathways in vivo is poorly understood. Here, we describe an endogenous feedback circuit for regulation of p53 through its transcriptional target gene, Redd1, a stress-induced inhibitor of TOR complex 1 (TORC1) activity. Cells and tissues of Redd1−/− mice exhibit enhanced sensitivity to ionizing radiation and chemotherapy treatment, which we demonstrate is attributable to abnormally increased p53 protein level and activity in the absence of Redd1. We find that deregulation of p53 in this setting is not due to failed DNA repair or to increased p53 stabilization but, instead, to increased p53 translation. We show that Redd1 loss leads to elevated mammalian TORC1 (mTORC1) activity, which explains the increased p53 translation and protein levels. Together, these findings suggest that REDD1-mediated suppression of mTORC1 activity exerts feedback control on p53, thereby limiting the apoptotic response and contributing to cellular survival following DNA damage. This work therefore defines a role for REDD1 in the control of p53 in vivo, with potential therapeutic implications for cancer and for the variety of genetic diseases involving TOR pathway signaling components.
Assessment of the Role of ACE Inhibitors in the Elderly

In the treatment of hypertension and cardiovascular disease (CVD), multiple treatment strategies have come and gone over the last several decades. The stepped care approach was popular for some time. However, adopting a stepped care approach to the treatment of hypertension per se neglected the diverse individualized pathophysiology of hypertension. Its advocates appreciated the purity of a standardization of hypertension treatment; others were disenchanted with its rigid nature. Yet, the stepped care approach to hypertension therapy, with diuretics and/or β-blockers, was supported by strong outcomes data from numerous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) (1).
Atomic resolution structure of the cytoplasmic domain of Yersinia pestis YscU, a regulatory switch involved in type III secretion

Crystal structures of cleaved and uncleaved forms of the YscU cytoplasmic domain, an essential component of the type III secretion system (T3SS) in Yersinia pestis, have been solved by single-wavelength anomolous dispersion and refined with X-ray diffraction data extending up to atomic resolution (1.13 A). These crystallographic studies provide structural insights into the conformational changes induced upon auto-cleavage of the cytoplasmic domain of YscU. The structures indicate that the cleaved fragments remain bound to each other. The conserved NPTH sequence that contains the site of the N263-P264 peptide bond cleavage is found on a β-turn which, upon cleavage, undergoes a major reorientation of the loop away from the catalytic N263, resulting in altered electrostatic surface features at the site of cleavage. Additionally, a significant conformational change was observed in the N-terminal linker regions of the cleaved and noncleaved forms of YscU which may correspond to the molecular switch that influences substrate specificity. The YscU structures determined here also are in good agreement with the auto-cleavage mechanism described for the flagellar homolog FlhB and E. coli EscU.
Reproductive tissue renin gene expression in preeclampsia.

Objective: Using an analogy with renin gene overexpression, low-renin hypertension animal models, we wished to test the hypothesis that renin gene expression is increased in decidua basalis in human gestation with preeclampsia.Methods: Human placentas were obtained immediately after delivery from 11 control (C) and 11 preeclamptics (PE). Tissue samples were microdissected and renin gene expression in decidua basalis (DB), chorionic villi (CV), and decidua vera (DV) was measured using dot-blot hybridization.Results: Overall renin gene expression is highest in decidua basalis (mean ± SEM, 2.66 ± 0.69 densitometry area units) compared to chorionic villi (mean ± SEM, 1.85 ± 0.5) or compared to decidua vera (mean ± SEM, 1.63 ± 0.9) (both t- tests p = 0.001 two-tailed and analysis of variance p = 0.0001). Renin gene expression in DB and in CV was similar in both preeclamptic and normal pregnancies (DB mean ± SEM C 2.79 ± 0.96 versus PE 2.54 ± 1.04, and CV mean ± SEM C 2.11 ± 0.91 versus PE, 1.59 ± 0.44). Renin ...
Bad Species Behavior

I call human behavior bad when the species Homo sapiens has a deleterious effect upon its own or any other organic species.
Recycled waste paper as a landscape mulch

Abstract Two studies were conducted to evaluate recycled waste paper mulch for landscape plantings. In the first study, two recycled paper products (pellet and crumble) were applied at three depths...
Path coefficient analysis of ozone effects on seed yield and seed yield components of bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)

SummaryField experiments were conducted to determine the effects of ozone (03) on seed yield, number of seeds plant'1, number of seeds pod-1, seed size, number of pods plant-1, number of branches plant'1, and plant height of sensitive and insensitive bean, Phaseolus vulgaris L. genotypes. The genetic materials used in these studies were derived by crossing ‘BBL 254’ with PI 300657, and ‘BBL 290’ with PI 304833. The two cultivars BBL 290 and BBL 254 are sensitive to 03 injury, whereas Pis 300657 and 304833 are insensitive to O, injury. Path coefficient analysis is presented for the data combined over a two-year field experiment in which the effects of eight genetic materials used on seed yield, seed yield component, and 03 injury rating were assessed. The most important path of influence on seed yield was via plant height and seed number pod-1 and pod number plant-1. The two variables, plant height and pod number plant-1 are also the most affected by Ov Therefore, selection based on seeds pod-1 and plant h...
Analyzing Whispers: college students’ representation and reproduction of sociocultural discourses about bodies, relationships, and (hetero)sexuality using a mobile application

AbstractPrevious research about college students’ social media usage emphasizes social media practices, often ignoring the content that students’ post. Increasing knowledge about the language that college students use to describe their intimate relationships can inform student affairs practice. Using a digital ethnographic data collection approach and queer theoretical framework, this paper explores the dominant discourses about race, sexuality, and relationships circulated in a mobile social networking application. This paper used content analysis to describe the meaning of text and images produced by college-aged youth in the US. Through this analysis of social media content, I contend that college students engage in the complex representations and reproductions of sociocultural norms about bodies, sexuality, and relationships and that these representations and reproductions influence campus climate. I develop implications for student affairs administrators.
Stimulation of jejunal Mucosal Protein Synthesis by Luminal Glucose: Effects With Luminal and Vascular Leucine in Fed and Fasted Rats+

This study was conducted to determine whether short-term (1.75 h) luminal glucose perfusion increases the mucosal protein synthesis rate in rat small intestine. A luminal perfusate containing 56 mM glucose was compared with a control perfusate containing mannitol in two jejunal segments constructed in the same animal. Mucosal protein synthesis rates were determined when the tracer amino acid was administered intravenously and intraluminally. The results indicated that luminal glucose perfusion rapidly stimulated mucosal protein synthesis in the fed state by 20% and 37% with the labeled amino acid derived from the vascular and luminal compartment, respectively. A 16-h fast abolished the stimulatory effect of glucose when the labeled amino acid was given intravascularly but not intraluminally. These effects of glucose could be ascribed to a direct alteration of mucosal metabolism rather than to indirect systemic effects.
Transfusion medicine. First of two parts--blood transfusion.

Blood transfusion and blood conservation (techniques or strategies to avoid the need for blood) are complementary activities that constitute the clinical arena of transfusion medicine. Recent improvements in the safety of the blood supply and the increasing costs associated with transfusion therapies have led to a reevaluation of the clinical practices of blood transfusion and blood conservation. Among the issues that have been reevaluated are the threshold for transfusion at which the benefits outweigh the risks and the identification of patients most likely to benefit from blood conservation. This review summarizes recent developments in transfusion medicine that have affected the . . .
The darker side of fatherhood: clinical and developmental ramifications of the "Laius motif".

"The Darker Side of Fatherhood" is intended as a clinical sequel to an earlier article, "Oedipus Revisited: Laius and the 'Laius Complex'". After briefly summarizing the allegorical implications of the various forgotten Oedipus myths and the father's fateful role within the Theban tragedy, this paper elaborates on those pederastic and filicidal inclinations that I believe to be universal among fathers. When such wishes are subject to primal repression, they enhance adaptation, fueling a father's aggressive dialogue with sons and daughters from infancy through the oedipal era into adolescence. Maladaptations arise when fathers give free rein to a more or less unalloyed destructive aggressivity toward offspring, a manifest hostility that can further serve to defend against ambisexual amibitions or identifications. Another pathogenic situation occurs when a father succumbs to an excessive neurotic inhibition in a desperate effort to repress such urges, thereby depriving his children of age- and state-appropriated aggressive stimulation in the form of play, active providing, and necessary discipline. Observational, analytic, and clinical case examples are presented to illustrate the implications for observation, developmental theory, and technique of an emphasis on a father's gender- and generation-specific aggression toward his offspring and its abiding intrapsychic reverberations. Language: en
Effect observation of family- centered medical care model applying to pediatric emergency

Objective To discuss and observe the effect of family- centered medical care model applying to pediatric emergency. Methods Apply the family- centered medical care model in the pediatric emergency,including creating cultural environment,APN scheduling,medical cooperation. Compare the agreement degree of patients and their relatives according to pediatric emergency nurses' medical service before and after the intervention. Results The agreement degree of patients and their relatives according to pediatric emergency nurses' medical service after the intervention was higher than that before the intervention( P = 0. 01). Conclusion The quality of pediatric emergency nursing work and patients' satisfaction were obviously improved and worthy of clinical promotion.
Improving Operation Cycle through Optimizing Operation Mode of Condensate Purification System

The characteristics of condensate purification system at Phase one of Tianwan Nuclear Power Station is introduced in this paper,and the problems occurred during system debugging and initial operation is also analyzed.According to the analysis results,the manner of water intake is implemented through adding waste water storage neutralization discharging system and modifying educing of resin from mixed resin filter on the conditions allowed by the site;condensate partial bypass operation is determined,and the measures such as system online conductance meters and seawater leakage interlock protection are taken,which optimized the operation manner of condensate system,improves the cycle of water preparation of the operation bed,lays a foundation for safe and stable operation of unit and achieves certain economic benefits and environmental protection benefits.
MO-DE-207B-10: Impact of Morphologic Characteristics On Radiomics Features From Contast-Enhanced CT for Primary Lung Tumors

Purpose: Determine the impact of morphologic characteristics (e.g. necrosis, vascular enhancement, and cavitation) on radiomic features from contrast enhanced CT (CE-CT) in primary lung tumors. Methods: We developed an auto-segmentation algorithm to separate lung tumors on contrast-enhanced CT into cavitation (air), necrosis, tissue, and enhancing vessels using a combination of thresholding and region-growing. An auto-segmentation algorithm was also designed to identify necrosis on FDG-PET scans. Wilcoxon rank-sum tests were used to determine if significant differences existed in radiomics features (histogram-uniformity and Laplacian-of-Gaussian average) from 249 patients, found to prognostic in previous work, based on the presence/absence of morphologic features. Feature values were also compared between the original tumor contours and contours excluding a specific morphologic feature. Comparison of necrosis segmentation on CE-CT versus FDG-PET was performed in 78 patients to assess for agreement using the concordance correlation coefficient (CCC). Results: Tumors with cavitation and enhancing vasculature had lower uniformity values (p = 0.001 and p = 0.03, respectively). Tumors with enhancing vasculature and necrosis had higher Laplacian-of-Gaussian average values (measure of “edges” within the tumor) (p 0.8). This suggests there may be interactions between morphologic characteristics and the radiomic feature value of tumor tissue. Comparison of necrosis volume and percent necrosis volume of tumor were found to have CCC values of 0.85 and 0.76, respectively between CE-CT and FDG-PET segmentation methods. Conclusions: Tumors with enhancing vasculature, necrosis, and cavitation have higher radiomic feature values that are associated with poor prognosis than tumors without these features. Removing these tissue types from quantitative assessment did not drastically impact radiomic feature values. High reproducibility of CE-CT segmented necrosis compared to FDG-PET segmented necrosis provides a reasonable validation of segmentation accuracy on CE-CT.
Faith and Verification

THE previous chapter has left the task of showing that Christian faith is not merely a blik—a way of regarding the world which is in principle neither verifiable nor falsifiable—but a mode of cognition to which the alternatives “veridical or illusory” properly apply. We have already acknowledged that verifiability is a valid criterion of factual meaning. Accordingly, in order to be either veridical or illusory the mode of experiencing that we call religious faith must be such that the theological statements which express it are either verifiable or falsifiable. It must make an experienceable difference whether they are true or false. In a formula used above, a state of the universe which satisfies the faith-assertions must differ in some experienceable way from states of the universe which fail to satisfy them. In other words, the existence of God must be experientially verifiable.
Liposuction Superficialization of Brachiocephalic Fistulae

Reliable, mature arteriovenous access is critical in optimizing outcomes for patients with end-stage renal disease. Within this patient population, there is a subset of patients who undergo brachiocephalic fistula creation given the surgical accessibility of the brachial artery and cephalic vein near the antecubital fossa. Liposuction superficialization of a brachiocephalic arteriovenous fistula is a technique that is employed when the fistula matures and is anatomically deep within the upper arm, making reliable hemodialysis access cannulation difficult. The technique begins with ultrasound-guided infiltration of tumescent solution (normal saline, lidocaine, and epinephrine) into the subcutaneous adipose and soft tissue. Once the tissue has firm turgor, a small incision is made distal to the fistula, and suction lipectomy is performed under direct and constant ultrasound guidance. As the procedure is performed under ultrasound guidance, complications (hematoma, active bleeding, or pseudoaneurysm) are rarely encountered. The arm is dressed with a sterile dressing and elastic bandage for 72 h with a repeat ultrasound and wound check at 1 week. A final ultrasound is performed at 1 month, and if the vein is adequately superficialized and mature, hemodialysis access may be attempted. Outcomes from this procedure seem acceptable with an 85 % success in two-needle cannulation at 1 month.
High-Tc Superconducting Crossing Lines and Contact

YBa2Cu307-x (YBCO) crossing lines with a SrTi03 insulating layer and a YBCO-YBCO contact sample with a via hole were prepared. The critical current densities Jc might be enough for superconducting device applications at 77K. The microstructure of the upper YBCO layer over the edge of the lower YBCO line was observed by TEM. Although step-like structures were observed at the upper side of the SrTi03 layer, the a-b plane of the upper YBCO layer almost grew parallel to (100) plane of the MgO substrate. Neither large grain boundaries nor large defects were in the upper YBCO layer.
Corpus Callostomy for Intractable Epilepsy

The response to corpus callosal section in 64 patients with intractable epilepsy was evaluated in a multicenter study in Australia.
An RF variable gain amplifier with linear-in-dB gain steps and automatic power consumption optimization

This paper describes a novel power optimized RF amplifier with linear in dB gain steps. Using basic P-N junction diode in 45nm CMOS process the implemented VGA provides large dynamic range with accurate linear-in-dB gain steps. The gain steps of the VGA do not depend on process variation and has a predictable variation across temperature. The VGA also has an automatic power reduction mechanism which reduces power consumption at low VGA gain.
Small signal stability of the western North American power grid with high penetrations of renewable generation

The goal of this effort was to assess the effect of high penetration solar deployment on the small signal stability of the western North American power system (wNAPS). Small signal stability is concerned with the system response to small disturbances, where the system is operating in a linear region. The study area consisted of the region governed by the Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC). General Electric's Positive Sequence Load Flow software (PSLF®) was employed to simulate the power system. A resistive brake insertion was employed to stimulate the system. The data was then analyzed in MATLAB® using subspace methods (Eigensystem Realization Algorithm). Two different WECC base cases were analyzed: 2022 light spring and 2016 heavy summer. Each base case was also modified to increase the percentage of wind and solar. In order to keep power flows the same, the modified cases replaced conventional generation with renewable generation. The replacements were performed on a regional basis so that solar and wind were placed in suitable locations. The main finding was that increased renewable penetration increases the frequency of inter-area modes, with minimal impact on damping. The slight increase in mode frequency was consistent with the loss of inertia as conventional generation is replaced with wind and solar. Then, distributed control of renewable generation was assessed as a potential mitigation, along with an analysis of the impact of communications latency on the distributed control algorithms.
Are American Universities Mismanaged?: Tenure vs Non-Tenure Faculty Employment Decisions

Abstract: This paper empirically tests the extent to which public universities in the United States are potentially mismanaged. The focus rests with university managerial employment decisions regarding the continuing substitution of less costly non-tenure track teaching faculty for tenured and tenure track faculty and the extent to which those decisions affect student graduation success. Panel data covering ten academic years, 2004-05 through 2013-14 are employed using ordinary least squares and stochastic frontier analysis specifications. The latter provides tests of the inefficiency effects of managerial employment decisions and academic year estimates of technical efficiency. In both cases, the results provide statistically strong evidence that tenured faculty lead to increased student graduation success while increases in non-tenured faculty have negative effects on student graduation rates. The stochastic results provide strong evidence of efficiency gains due to tenured faculty and increased inefficiency arising from non-tenure track faculty employment. While universities appear to have managed efficiency gains as a possible result of the Great Recession, those gains quickly evaporated in both 2012 and 2013. Separate estimates for research vs. lower level comprehensive universities, indicate that the former maintain greater operating efficiencies. Given that public universities are being subject to new funding models that tie funding to the production of student success rates, the continuing non-tenure track employment substitution suggests that universities are potentially mismanaged in generating funding support for faculty employment and student success. Keywords: Tenure, non-tenure, faculty employment, stochastic frontier, university efficiency
Improving target amino acid selectivity in a permissive aminoacyl tRNA synthetase through counter-selection

The amino acid acridon-2-ylalanine (Acd) can be a valuable probe of protein dynamics, either alone or as part of a Forster resonance energy transfer (FRET) or photo-induced electron transfer (eT) probe pair. We have previously reported the genetic incorporation of Acd by an aminoacyl tRNA synthetase (RS). However, this RS, developed from a library of permissive RSs, also incorporates N-phenyl-aminophenylalanine (Npf), a trace byproduct of one Acd synthetic route. We have performed negative selections in the presence of Npf and analyzed the selectivity of the resulting AcdRSs by in vivo protein expression and detailed kinetic analyses of the purified RSs. We find that selection conferred a ∼50-fold increase in selectivity for Acd over Npf, eliminating incorporation of Npf contaminants, and allowing one to use a high yielding Acd synthetic route for improved overall expression of Acd-containing proteins. More generally, our report also provides a cautionary tale on the use of permissive RSs, as well as a strategy for improving selectivity for the target amino acid.
The Prison Years

Charles McCarthy was arrested in 1953 and charged with being an imperialist secret agent. McCarthy recalled that, “There was no physical torture for me. It wasn’t necessary.” He exercised his priesthood in secret while living in Shanghai prisons. While levels of malnutrition varied, prisoners suffered afflictions that would plague them for the rest of their lives. A regular diet of ideological “re-education” was enforced during the first 3 years, which contained the worst of the hardships, a tactic that allowed prisoners to regain health and strength just prior to release. He spent more than 4 years in prison before being released, years so traumatic that he only spoke of them sparingly. This chapter tells his own prison narrative as well as those of his confreres.
PCR Identification of Listeria monocytogenes in Deli Meat

We will introduce the PCR testing procedure for rapid identification of L. monocytogenes in deli meat. The lab work will include inoculation, extraction of DNA, PCR thermal cycle, and conduction of gel electrophoresis.
Metabolic and functional consequences of blunted myocardial reactive hyperemia

This study determined whether the rapidity of myocardial metabolic and contractile recovery after brief coronary occlusion depends upon the intensity of reactive hyperemia. We also tested the hypothesis that coronary flow rate modulates contractility after brief myocardial ischemia, independent of changes in phosphorus metabolites. Eight open-chest pigs were studied with phosphorus-31 nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy with 14 s time resolution. After a 29-s anterior descending coronary occlusion, peak Doppler coronary flow velocity was alternately unrestricted (normal hyperemia, 443 +/- 40% of control) or limited to 159 +/- 9% of control. During 29 s coronary occlusion, phosphocreatine-to-inorganic phosphate ratio (PCr/Pi) and systolic segment shortening in the ischemic region fell to 28 +/- 4 and 7 +/- 7% of control, respectively. With normal hyperemia, PCr/Pi and segment shortening recovered within 29 s. With blunted hyperemia, recovery of both parameters was delayed an additional 29-43 s, associated with reduced subendocardial blood flow (measured with radioactive microspheres) and persistent intracellular acidosis. However, the relationship between segment shortening and PCr/Pi was unaffected by the intensity of reactive hyperemia. Thus blunted reactive hyperemia significantly delays metabolic and contractile recovery from brief ischemia, probably via transient maldistribution of transmural perfusion. However, coronary blood flow rate does not independently modulate contractility after brief reversible ischemia.
There Is No Such Thing as a Free Lunch: The Evolution of Scavenging

Abstract Scavenging is a foraging strategy in which carrion, or dead animal tissue, is consumed to meet energetic demands. Most animals are facultative scavengers, meaning that they scavenge when given the opportunity to supplement other methods of food acquisition, such as hunting or grazing. The evolution of scavenging behavior has been promoted by the high energetic quality of carrion resources. However, complete reliance on scavenging has been constrained by carrion’s unreliable availability and its rapid depletion given high levels of interkingdom competition. Today, only vultures are committed to exclusive carrion consumption. This chapter reviews the evolution of vertebrate scavenging and demonstrates how species maximize the nutritional benefits of a scavenging strategy through physical or behavioral adaptations that improve foraging efficiency, promote carrion monopolization, or otherwise preclude carrion utilization by other scavengers and decomposers.
G111(P) Trainee led improvement project in a paediatric day case unit

Aims This ST2–3 Paediatric trainee led project aimed to provide structure to the medical Paediatric Day Case Unit (DCU), improving its effectiveness and patient safety. Methods I identified deficiencies in the organisation and patient flow of our medical DCU, which impacted on patient safety, work load, clarity of roles and responsibilities and support for the junior doctors. Suspicions were confirmed after completing an online survey from colleagues. To address those problems I analysed and documented the work flow. Two main patient groups of patients were identified; those attending as non-scheduled-outpatient appointments (NSOPs) for bloodletting and day admissions requiring a bed. Patient flow was rationalised using our electronic medical record system (TrakCare). To improve patient safety, efficiency and define roles and responsibilities with regards to patients attending as NSOPs, NSOP request forms were designed and implemented. To increase efficiency and patient safety for day admissions, self clerking history taking forms (completed by parents/carers) and junior doctor clerking proformas were designed and implemented. The proformas are specific for the different patient groups attending for infusions, vaccinations, oral challenges and oncology interventions. New doctor induction now includes a detailed handbook and a DCU teaching session. Results The medical Paediatric Day Case Unit is now more efficient with all the developed changes in place and delivering patient care. NSOP request forms have been officially adopted and re-auditing has led to an incremental increase in their use and evolution of their structure. Day admission proformas have been adopted and reviewed via feedback from speciality nurses and consultants. The effects of above changes were assessed by questionnaires to junior doctors and showed a reduction of patient safety concerns. I have initiated ongoing quality improvement projects that ensure that the unit’s performance is continuing to evolve. Conclusion This project demonstrates how a trainee led project over 18 months can make significant improvements and lasting change. The right environment and support can enable level 1 trainees to identify a need of improvement, develop improvement measures and implement those in collaboration with professionals at various levels.
Studying new antibiotics for multidrug resistant infections: are today’s patients paying for unproved future benefits?

Current approaches to testing new treatments for multidrug resistant bacterial diseases raise scientific and ethical issues for current and future patients, say John Powers and colleagues
Outcomes of Joint Preservation Procedures for Cartilage Injuries in the Hip: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Background:The detection and management of chondral injuries of the hip, especially in a younger patient population, may preempt joint degeneration. Although the outcomes of preservation techniques...
Effects of Seasonality on Insect Populations in the Tropics

The entomological and natural history literature is replete with examples of the effects of Temperate Zone cycles of annual seasonality on insect populations. In the Temperate Zone regions there is a succession of four major seasons at most latitudes, although the duration and intensity of each season vary considerably. The growing season or northem summer alternates with the winter season, a period of little or no growth in plant communities and associated animal communities. The transitional seasons of spring and fall are periods of buildup and decline, respectively, of plant and insect populations at northem latitudes. As discussed recentiy by Lawton, (425) there is considerable interest in how the dynamics of Temperate Zone plant communities influence the diversity of phytophagous insects throughout the growing season.
Ion Exchange Equilibrium and Transport of Biologicals in Resins for Pharmaceutical Processing

We consider equilibrium and transport rates of biologicals in ion exchange resins, using amino acids as model compounds. The uptake of these molecules by sulfonated polystyrene-DVB resins occurs via the stoichiometric exchange of amino acid cations. The overall sorption behavior is thus dependent upon ion exchange and solution equilibria, which determine the extent of ionization of the amino acids. Intraparticle transport rates are controlled by the slow diffusion of amino acid cations in the resin, and are strongly dependent upon the hydration of the resin and the size of the diffusing molecule.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma Markers

Primary hepatocellular carcinomas (PHC) are derived from parenchymal liver cells. Since the liver is the major metabolic factory of the body, a number of products of the abnormal cells of PHC are potential diagnostic markers. However, because PHC has such a relatively low incidence in the United States, markers for PHC have not attracted as much clinical attention in North America as those for some other cancers, such as lung, breast, or gastrointestinal tract. On the other hand, there is a wide range in incidence of PHC in different parts of the world (Szmuness, 1978). In the United States, the incidence in autopsy studies ranges from 0.2 to 0.6% (Hoyne and Kernohan, 1947; MacDonald, 1957; Mosher, 1960; Patton and Horn, 1964; San Jose et al., 1965) with evidence for an increasing incidence from 0.17% during the period 1918–1953, toO.96% in 1964–1973 as determined at the University of Southern California Medical Center (Peters, 1976). In Europe, the incidence ranges from approximately 0.25% in Germany to 1.65% in France (Szmuness, 1978).
The Series LLC: Continued Evolution is Clearing the Fog

The series LLC is a potentially useful entity choice for attorneys and business owners to consider. However, uncertainties remain in the areas of liability protection, bankruptcy status and tax treatment (federal and state). However, in these areas, the law continues to evolve, making the series LLC an increasingly attractive entity choice.
Effective magnetic susceptibility of suspensions of ferromagnetic particles

The effective susceptibility χeff of suspensions of ferromagnetic particles in a liquid was measured using inductance measurements. These measurements were used to test a model that predicts how χeff varies due to demagnetization, as a function of sample aspect ratio, particle packing fraction, and particle aspect ratio [R. Skomski, G. C. Hadjipanayis, and D. J. Sellmyer, IEEE Trans. Magn. 43, 2956–2958 (2007)]. For spherical particles or cylindrical particles forcibly aligned with an external magnetic field, the model can be fitted to the measured data with agreement within 13%. This model predicts suspensions of aligned, large-aspect-ratio particles should have the largest χeff, approaching the particle material susceptibility in the limit of large particle aspect ratio. However, χeff was found to be no larger than about 4 for cylindrical iron particles of various aspect ratios, close to the value obtained for spheres. This results from the random alignment of non-spherical particles relative to the magnetic field naturally found in suspensions, which increases the demagnetization effect and limits χeff. The contribution of random particle alignments to the demagnetization effect and χeff remains to be accounted for in models.
School‐Level Body Mass Index Shapes Children's Weight Trajectories

Background Embedded within children's weight trajectories are complex environmental contexts that influence obesity risk. As such, the normative environment of body mass index (BMI) within schools may influence children's weight trajectories as they age from kindergarten to fifth grade. Methods I use 5 waves of the ECLS-K-Kindergarten Class 1998-1999 data and a series of multilevel growth models to examine whether attending schools with higher overall BMI influences children's weight status over time. Results Results show that, net of child, family, and school sociodemographic characteristics, children who attend schools with higher rates of obesity have increased weight compared to children who attend schools with lower rates of obesity, and this effect increases annually. Conclusions Findings indicate that the overall weight status of schools influence child obesity, and further speak to the importance of school-based intervention programs.
Unhealthy Aid: Food Security Programming and Disaster Responses to Cyclone Pam in Vanuatu

In this paper, I examine the disconnect between government and NGO responses to Cyclone Pam, and previous healthy food initiatives in Port Vila, Vanuatu. Decades of nutrition education programs acr...
Lecompte Procedure for Relief of Severe Airway Compression in Children With Congenital Heart Disease.

Purpose:Children with congenital heart disease may present with severe airway compression prior to any surgical procedure or may develop airway compression following their surgical procedure. This ...
Sequential Translocation of Polypeptides across the Bacterial Outer Membrane through the Trimeric Autotransporter Pathway.

ABSTRACT Trimeric autotransporter adhesins (TAAs) are a family of bacterial outer membrane (OM) proteins that are comprised of three identical subunits. Each subunit contains an N-terminal extracellular (“passenger”) domain and a short C-terminal segment that contributes four β strands to a single 12-stranded β barrel. The mechanism by which the passenger domains are translocated across the OM and the energetics of the translocation reaction are poorly understood. To address these issues, we examined the secretion of modified versions of the passenger domain of UpaG, a TAA produced by Escherichia coli CFT073. Using the SpyTag-SpyCatcher system to probe passenger domain localization, we found that both intrinsically disordered polypeptides fused to the UpaG passenger domain and artificially disulfide-bonded polypeptides were secreted effectively but relatively slowly. Surprisingly, we also found that in some cases, the three nonnative passenger domain segments associated with a single trimer were secreted sequentially. Photo-cross-linking experiments indicated that incompletely assembled UpaG derivatives remained bound to the barrel assembly machinery (Bam) complex until all three passenger domains were fully secreted. Taken together, our results strongly suggest that the secretion of polypeptides through the TAA pathway is coordinated with the assembly of the β barrel domain and that the folding of passenger domains in the extracellular space maximizes the rate of secretion. Furthermore, our work provides evidence for an unprecedented sequential mode of protein translocation, at least under specific experimental conditions. IMPORTANCE Trimeric autotransporter adhesins (TAAs) are specialized bacterial outer membrane proteins consisting of three identical subunits. TAAs contain large extracellular domains that trimerize and promote virulence, but the mechanism by which they are secreted is poorly understood. We found that the extracellular domains of a native TAA were secreted rapidly but that disordered and artificially folded polypeptides fused to native passenger domains were secreted in a slow, sequential fashion. Our results strongly suggest that the efficient secretion of native extracellular domains is driven by their trimerization following export but that alternative energy sources can be harnessed to secrete nonnative polypeptides. Furthermore, we obtained evidence that TAA extracellular domains are secreted before the assembly of the linked membrane spanning domain is completed.
Raw feeding in dogs and cats

This article reviews the reasons for feeding domestic dogs and cats a diet based on raw meaty bones. Dogs, though able and willing to eat a wide variety of foods, exhibit numerous carnivorous trait...
Nitric oxide synthase mediates cerebellar dysfunction in mice exposed to repetitive blast-induced mild traumatic brain injury

We investigated the role of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in mediating blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption and peripheral immune cell infiltration in the cerebellum following blast exposure. Repetitive, but not single blast exposure, induced delayed-onset BBB disruption (72 hours post-blast) in cerebellum. The NOS inhibitor N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) administered after blast blocked BBB disruption and prevented CD4+ T-cell infiltration into cerebellum. L-NAME also blocked blast-induced increases in intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), a molecule that plays a critical role in regulating blood-to-brain immune cell trafficking. Blocking NOS-mediated BBB dysfunction during this acute/subacute post-blast interval (24–71 hours after the last blast) also prevented sensorimotor impairment on a rotarod task 30 days later, long after L-NAME cleared the body. In postmortem brains from Veterans/military Servicemembers with blast-related TBI, we found marked Purkinje cell dendritic arbor structural abnormalities, which were comparable to neuropathologic findings in the blast-exposed mice. Taken collectively, these results indicate that blast provokes delayed-onset of NOS-dependent pathogenic cascades that can later emerge as behavioral dysfunction. These results also further implicate the cerebellum as a brain region vulnerable to blast-induced mTBI.
Stress and the State

This chapter discusses the role of stress and anxiety in human life and the human need to belong to groups. It connects these two things to the role of the state in creating co-citizenship as a form of social belonging. It argues, as well, that the state is a fetish.
independence: Fast Rank Tests

In 1948 Hoeffding devised a nonparametric test that detects dependence between two continuous random variables X and Y, based on the ranking of n paired samples (Xi,Yi). The computation of this commonly-used test statistic takes O(n log n) time. Hoeffding's test is consistent against any dependent probability density f(x,y), but can be fooled by other bivariate distributions with continuous margins. Variants of this test with full consistency have been considered by Blum, Kiefer, and Rosenblatt (1961), Yanagimoto (1970), Bergsma and Dassios (2010). The so far best known algorithms to compute these stronger independence tests have required quadratic time. Here we improve their run time to O(n log n), by elaborating on new methods for counting ranking patterns, from a recent paper by the author and Leng (SODA'21). Therefore, in all circumstances under which the classical Hoeffding independence test is applicable, we provide novel competitive algorithms for consistent testing against all alternatives. Our R package, independence, offers a highly optimized implementation of these rank-based tests. We demonstrate its capabilities on large-scale datasets.
Dark matter from S U ( 6 ) → S U ( 5 ) × U ( 1 ) N

Matter and dark matter are unified under the framework of $SU(6)\ensuremath{\rightarrow}SU(5)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}U(1{)}_{N}$. A dark-matter candidate is possible, not because it is stable, but because it has a very long lifetime, in analogy to that of the proton in theories of grand unification. A specific example is presented.
Personal Ultraviolet Respiratory Germ Eliminating Machine (PUR$\diamond$GEM) for COVID-19: Prototype Development

In this article we detail the prototype development of the Personal Ultraviolet Respiratory Germ Eliminating Machine(PUR$\diamond$GEM) to safely, efficiently and economically, continuously disinfect inhaled/exhaled air using Ultraviolet (UV) radiation with possible 99.99% virus elimination. The PUR$\diamond$GEM consists of a series of UV disinfection chambers through which constant airflow is maintained via fans. A minimum air flow rate of $\sim20-30$ L/min is sufficient to keep CO$_2$ levels $\lesssim$ 0.5% in the hood/helmet. We validated that using easily available PTFE wrap, a factor of $\sim 18$ enhancement in UV power can be obtained in our spherical chambers. Detailed analysis is presented for the air travel time distributions through the cavities, and the expectation value for actual pathogen elimination is computed. We provide the scaling of pathogen elimination with the number of cavities in series, reflective enhancement, UV source power, sphere radius and airflow rate. We show that disinfection greater than 4-log is achievable for a series of three or more spheres. We 3D printed our prototype, consisting of two spheres of 10 cm diameter each in series for each direction of disinfection. Using UVC LEDs emitting $\sim$ 40 mW of power each with an airflow rate of 30 L/min, actual SARS-COV2 virus elimination of $\sim$ 98% is expected. While not manually feasible to construct smaller spheres in the lab, smaller cavities can be commercially manufactured, leading to significantly higher actual pathogen elimination, as well as reducing fingerprint and cost of cavity manufacture. Patent pending.
A Plant-Fungus Bioassay Supports the Classification of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) as Inconsistently Mycorrhizal

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is becoming an increasingly important food crop. Understanding the microbiome of quinoa and its relationships with soil microorganisms may improve crop yield potential or nutrient use efficiency. Whether quinoa is a host or non-host of a key soil symbiont, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), is suddenly up for debate with recent field studies reporting root colonization and presence of arbuscules. This research seeks to add evidence to the mycorrhizal classification of quinoa as we investigated additional conditions not previously explored in quinoa that may affect root colonization. A greenhouse study used six AMF species, two AMF commercial inoculant products, and a diverse set of 10 quinoa genotypes. Results showed 0 to 3% quinoa root colonization by AMF when grown under greenhouse conditions. Across quinoa genotypes, AMF inoculant affected shoot dry weight (p = 0.066) and height (p = 0.031). Mykos Gold produced greater dry biomass than Claroideoglomus eutunicatum (27% increase), Rhizophagus clarus (26% increase), and within genotype CQ119, the control (21% increase). No treatment increased plant height compared to control, but Funneliformis mosseae increased height compared to C. eutunicatum (25% increase) and Rhizophagus intraradices (25% increase). Although quinoa plants were minimally colonized by AMF, plant growth responses fell along the mutualism-parasitism continuum. Individual AMF treatments increased leaf greenness in quinoa genotypes 49ALC and QQ87, while R. clarus decreased greenness in CQ119 compared to the control. Our research findings support the recommendation to classify quinoa as non-mycorrhizal when no companion plant is present and inconsistently mycorrhizal when conditional colonization occurs.
How Much Gas Is Enough?: Energy Security and Natural Gas Infrastructure in the Baltic Sea Region

As a pushback to Russia’s dominance in the Baltic Sea region gas market and in the effort to boost the energy security of the region, countries in the region have undertaken two interrelated initiatives: (1) diversification of gas supplies and (2) development of the market’s interconnectivity to ensure region’s integration. With an overview of natural supply in the Baltic Sea region as a backdrop, this chapter adopts a measure of supply security–Residual Supply Index (RSI)–to capture the so-called ‘credible threat’ idea, according to which sheer existence of infrastructure that diversifies supply provides energy security benefits. The RSI-based model presented in this work is simple enough to be used and understood by non-experts but flexible and customisable enough to incorporate, envision, and assess many sophisticated scenarios, depending on what the question at stake. It can provide a point of departure for new research that incorporates measures of interconnectedness and/or intra-regional co-operation, as a part of the security of supply equation.