cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) accumulation in four strawberry cultivars in response to elevated CO2 storage

Accumulation of-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is associated with stress factors in plant systems. The objective of the current study was to compare GABA concentrations in four strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch) cultivars with different tolerances to postharvest CO2 treatment (20% in air) as indicated by accumulation of fermentation products. Color change of fruit of all cultivars was delayed by CO2 treatment. Concentrations of ethanol and ethyl acetate increased in CO2 treated fruit of ‘Jewel’ but not in ‘Allstar’, ‘Earliglow’, and ‘Northeaster’. Higher GABA concentrations were associated with elevated CO2 treatment in all cultivars compared with air, but GABA accumulations were much lower in ‘Allstar’ and ‘Earliglow’ than in ‘Jewel’ and ‘Northeaster’. At harvest, glutamate decarboxylase (GAD) activity was greater in fruit of ‘Jewel’ and ‘Northeaster’ than in ‘Allstar’ and ‘Earliglow’. GAD activity decreased during storage, but it was not affected by CO2. GABA transaminase (GABA-T) activity was lower in CO2 than air treated ‘Jewel’ fruit, but it was not affected consistently by CO2 in the other cultivars. The results indicate that high CO2 treatments increased GABA concentrations in strawberry fruit, but the accumulation is not consistently associated with sensitivity of the fruit to CO2 as indicated by accumulation of fermentation products.
Purine Utilization by Klebsiella oxytoca M5al: Genes for Ring-Oxidizing and -Opening Enzymes

The enterobacterium Klebsiella oxytoca uses a variety of inorganic and organic nitrogen sources, including purines, nitrogen-rich compounds that are widespread in the biosphere. We have identified a 23-gene cluster that encodes the enzymes for utilizing purines as the sole nitrogen source. Growth and complementation tests with insertion mutants, combined with sequence comparisons, reveal functions for the products of these genes. Here, we report our characterization of 12 genes, one encoding guanine deaminase and the others encoding enzymes for converting (hypo)xanthine to allantoate. Conventionally, xanthine dehydrogenase, a broadly distributed molybdoflavoenzyme, catalyzes sequential hydroxylation reactions to convert hypoxanthine via xanthine to urate. Our results show that these reactions in K. oxytoca are catalyzed by a two-component oxygenase (HpxE-HpxD enzyme) homologous to Rieske nonheme iron aromatic-ring-hydroxylating systems, such as phthalate dioxygenase. Our results also reveal previously undescribed enzymes involved in urate oxidation to allantoin, catalyzed by a flavoprotein monooxygenase (HpxO enzyme), and in allantoin conversion to allantoate, which involves allantoin racemase (HpxA enzyme). The pathway also includes the recently described PuuE allantoinase (HpxB enzyme). The HpxE-HpxD and HpxO enzymes were discovered independently by de la Riva et al. (L. de la Riva, J. Badia, J. Aguilar, R. A. Bender, and L. Baldoma, J. Bacteriol. 190:7892-7903, 2008). Thus, several enzymes in this K. oxytoca purine utilization pathway differ from those in other microorganisms. Isofunctional homologs of these enzymes apparently are encoded by other species, including Acinetobacter, Burkholderia, Pseudomonas, Saccharomyces, and Xanthomonas.
The Effect of Preoperative Planning Method on Recommended Tibial Tuberosity Advancement Cage Size

Objective To determine if use of various commonly practiced tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) preoperative planning methods leads to variable TTA cage size recommendations. Study Design Radiographic study. Animals Dogs (n = 14) with naturally occurring cranial cruciate ligament disease. Methods TTA was planned by a single observer on mediolateral stifle radiographs of each dog using 2 sets of tibial plateau landmarks (anatomic [A] vs. femorotibial common tangent [T]) and 2 advancement measurement techniques (transparent overlay [O] vs. simulated TTA using imaging software [S]) for 4 different planning methods (AO, AS, TO, TS). Cage size recommendations for each stifle were tabulated for each of the 4 planning methods. Mean advancement (mm) required to obtain patellar tendon angle (PTA) = 90° for each of the 4 planning methods were statistically compared. Results In the 14 stifles studied, the 4 planning methods evaluated led to 4 different cage size recommendations in 1 stifle, 3 different recommendations in 8 stifles, 2 different recommendations in 3 stifles, and 1 recommendation in only 2 stifles. There was a significant difference in the mean advancement measurement between the 4 planning methods (P < .0001); the AS technique was the largest whereas TO resulted in the smallest measurement. Overall, larger advancement was associated with use of anatomic landmarks (vs. common tangent) and imaging software to simulate TTA (vs. overlays). Conclusion Currently practiced methods for TTA pre-planning led to variable cage size recommendations in 86% of the stifles evaluated and may be a source of inconsistent functional outcomes.
Facial Hair: A Newly Identified, Modifiable Risk Factor in Home Oxygen Therapy–Related Burns

To test the hypothesis that facial hair increases the likelihood of HOTrelated burns, we constructed models with mustaches made from human hair and models without facial hair. With oxygen flowing at 2 L/min, models were exposed to a spark source.Inthemodelswithamustache, thefacialhairandnasalcannulareadily ignited. In contrast, the nasal cannula tubing did not ignite in the models without a mustache, strongly suggesting that facial hair increases the risk of HOT-related burns in the presence of an ignition source (Figure). Our findings are supported by a previous study by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration that found that although hair is marginally flammableinroomair(21%oxygen), flame spreadincreasesanorderofmagnitude in the presence of an oxygen-enriched environment (30% oxygen). 2 In the United States, there are an estimated 1.5 million patients using HOT, and the numbers worldwide are growing, especially in regions with increasing smoking rates. 3 Recognizing facial hair as an important modifiable risk factor for HOT-related burns has important public health implications. Weencouragehealth careprofessionals to counsel patients on the risk of facial hair at the initiation of HOT and at periodic follow-up visits. Besides avoiding ignition sources, measures to reduce the risk of HOT-related burns may include shaving facial hair and avoiding the use of oil- or alcoholcontaining hair products, instead using water-based gels. Other potential strategies may include using humidified oxygen and making the nasal cannula tubing less combustible.
Experimental analysis of pore-scale flow and transport in porous media

Abstract A novel, non-intrusive fluorescence imaging technique has been used to quantitatively measure the pore geometry, fluid velocity, and solute concentration within a saturated, three-dimensional porous medium. Discrete numerical averages of these quantities have been made over a representative volume of the medium and used to estimate macroscopic quantities that appear in conventional continuum models of flow and transport. The approach is meant to illustrate how microscopic information can be measured, averaged, and used to characterize medium-scale processes that are typically approximated constitutively. The experimental system consisted of a clear, cylindrical column packed with clear spherical beads and a refractive index-matched fluid seeded with fluorescent tracer particles and solute dye. By illuminating the fluid within the column with a scanning planar laser beam, details of flow and concentration within the pore spaces can be quantitatively observed, allowing for three-dimensional, dimensional, time dependent information to be obtained at good resolution. In time dependent information to be obtained at good resolution. In the current experiment, volumetrically averaged velocities and void-to-volume ratios are first compared with bulk measurements of fluid flux and medium porosity. Microscopic measurements of concentration are then used to construct cross-sectionally averaged profiles, mean breakthrough curves, and direct measurements of the dispersive flux, velocity variance, and concentration variance. In turn, the dispersive flux measurements are compared with mean concentration gradients to provide a basis for confirming the Fickian dispersion model and estimating dispersion coefficients for the medium. Coefficients determined in this manner are compared with others based upon traditional length-scale arguments, mean breakthrough analyses, and curve fits with numerical simulations.
HOW PREY RESPOND TO COMBINED PREDATORS: A REVIEW AND AN EMPIRICAL TEST

Studies of phenotypic plasticity frequently ask how organisms respond to a change in their environment, but most organisms do not experience single environmental changes. Therefore, we need to move to the next step and understand how organisms respond to combinations of environmental changes. Recent studies of predator-induced plasticity have addressed how prey respond to different combinations of predators. I briefly review 22 studies of combined predator effects on prey phenotypes and identify four factors that make it difficult to interpret the results of these studies: (1) uncontrolled prey consumption, (2) a low number of prey traits, (3) a low number of predator combinations, and (4) confounded predator composition and total predator density. I address these challenges in an experiment that examined how wood frog tadpoles (Rana sylvatica) altered 12 behavioral, morphological, and life historical traits in response to four different caged predators (Erythemis, Belostoma, Dytiscus, and Anax). The pred...
Late Arabian Pastoral

The region was subjected to considerable stress due to the reduction of annual moisture over much of the peninsula beginning in the late third millennium b.c. Some scholars have posited a dramatic climatic catastrophe/retreat. Others proposed a gradual retreat to more modern conditions. However, we know little about the early second millennium b.c. conditions for the area.
Statistics for Business and Economics

Descriptive statistics probability concepts - the foundations of inference analytical statistics - basic inference analytical statistics - advanced inference supplementary topics.
Radiographic predictability of hiatal hernia prior to gastric band surgery.

BACKGROUND Hiatal hernia (HH) is closely associated with morbid obesity. There is controversy over the need for preoperative imaging before laparoscopic adjustable gastric band placement. The aim of this study is to determine the predictive value of preoperatively diagnosing HH with upper gastrointestinal (UGI) series imaging. METHODS A retrospective review of a single surgeon's experience with laparoscopic adjustable gastric band placements was performed. All patients received a preoperative UGI series. The decision to perform an HH repair at the time of gastric banding was based on intraoperative findings. Each patient's UGI study was compared with the operative report. Patients' outpatient records were also reviewed for subjective reflux symptoms or use of antireflux medications. RESULTS Of 146 patients, 63 (43%) had intraoperative findings consistent with an HH and underwent repair. Of these, only 32 (50%) had a preoperative UGI study that showed an HH (positive predictive value, 50%). Of the 83 patients who did not have an intraoperative HH, only 51 (61%) had a congruent UGI (negative predictive value, 62%). No correlation was found between patient-reported symptoms and either radiologic or intraoperative findings. CONCLUSIONS UGI series have poor positive and negative predictive values in preoperatively diagnosing HH. In addition, subjective patient symptoms and the need for antireflux medication did not correlate with either radiologic or intraoperative findings of HH. Our results suggest that direct operative diagnosis is a more accurate method of detecting HH.
Forcing of Turing patterns in the chlorine dioxide-iodine-malonic acid reaction with strong visible light.

We investigate the sensitivity of Turing patterns in the chlorine dioxide–iodine–malonic acid reaction to illumination by strong white light. Intense illumination results in an increase of [I–], in contrast to previous studies, which found only decreased [I–] for weak and intermediate intensities of illumination. We propose an expanded mechanism to explain the experimental observations. Both experimental and numerical results suggest that [ClO2] is the key parameter that determines whether the high iodide state is obtained under strong illumination. When strong illumination is applied through a spatially periodic mask with black and white stripes, a dark state with high [I–] is produced in the illuminated domain and a light state with low [I–] forms in the nonilluminated domain. Depending on the black:white ratio of the mask and its wavelength, Turing patterns can coexist with either the light or the dark state in the nonilluminated domain.
MARGINALITY AND INTEGRATIVE DECISIONS

The article presents a study on the decision making an conflict resolving skills of people with marginal or integrated personalities and people with non-marginal personalities. Students were given ...
Arthrosurface Inlay Resurfacing: Indications, Surgical Technique, and Results

Cartilage lesions in the knee are common [1] and can be highly symptomatic [2, 3, 4]. The biological treatment spectrum offers a wide range of cartilage procedures that address these lesions from different perspectives: Palliative interventions (debridement) aim at lesion stabilization and the removal of mechanical symptoms. Reparative (marrow stimulation techniques), restorative (chondral, osteochondral transplantation), and reconstructive (allograft, prosthetics) procedures target defect filling and surface reconstructions, while corrective procedures (osteotomy) take aim at the underlying disease process. All but palliative and prosthetic reconstructive measures require prolonged rehabilitation to ensure adequate biological response, remodeling, and healing.
World Weather Network

To solve the problem of covering the earth with a meteorological network, international cooperation must be presupposed even though the present time seems inauspicious. However, meteorology has an enviable record of international cooperation which has withstood two major wars and has been maintained, albeit in a somewhat restricted manner, in times of severe international stress. Cooperation started as a means of exchanging observations between nations. The actual planning of networks has hitherto taken place on the basis of individual national needs. Consequently, an extremely uneven coverage is afforded the meteorologist who desires to study world-scale problems rather than regional synoptic meteorology. Air navigation, which now encompasses the earth, has given a new impetus to the international organization of weather networks. However, even here the planning is directed to the practical needs of air operations and seldom results in a network satisfactory for the study of the general circulation.
Social media and political discussion: when online presence silences offline conversation

ABSTRACTThis paper explores the relationship between the use of social media, attitudinal strength, perceived opinion agreement with social ties, and willingness to discuss a political issue in different online and offline contexts. Unlike the anonymous environment of some Internet forums, social media are closely tied to the relationships and activities of everyday life. Social media increasingly make ties from offline contexts persistent online, and, because of the ambient nature of these technologies, awareness of the opinions, interests, and activities of social ties has become pervasive. As such, the use of social media is likely to affect everyday conversation about political issues in on- and offline contexts, including the home, workplace, social gatherings with friends, community meetings, and on social network sites (SNSs). Based on a national probability survey, we find that the use of SNSs (i.e., Facebook and Twitter) has a direct, negative relationship to deliberation in many offline settings...
Racial disparities in papillary thyroid microcarcinoma survival.

Objective: To evaluate the impact of race on survival in patients with papillary thyroid microcarcinoma. Methods: The study cohort included 17 668 patients diagnosed with papillary thyroid microcarcinoma between 1988 and 2009, identified in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results 18 database of the National Cancer Institute. Results: Black patients had lower overall survival than other racial groups (p < 0.001). Black patients had significantly worse overall survival (hazard ratio = 2.59) after adjusting for sex, marital status, age, year of diagnosis, multifocal disease and type of surgery. A subset analysis of Black patients revealed no significant difference in overall survival for total thyroidectomy versus lobectomy (p = 0.15). Conclusion: Black race is a negative prognostic factor in thyroid cancer, which cannot be explained by advanced disease stage. Further research on mechanisms by which race affects survival is needed to reveal areas of opportunity for interventions aimed at reducing health disparities in cancer care.
Christmas tree marketing: Product, price, promotion, and place tactics

With more than 15,000 growers across the United States, natural Christmas trees are an importantcrop. As production specialists, many tree farmers have limited marketing knowledge. Christmas tree producers can expand their business using four marketing tools-product, price, promotion, and place-that form a useful framework for organizing marketing ideas. This article reviews the research on Christmas trees and other products for innovative tactics for marketing Christmas trees. By improvingtheir application of the four Ps, tree producers and retailers can add more perceived value to their products, build customer loyalty, and boost their sales.
Stoichiometry invariants for ternary and quatenary solid solutions with two nearly perfect sublattices

Abstract We consider a quatenary semiconductor compound, ( A 1− u B u ) 1− y ( C 1− v D v ) y , in which the A and B atoms occupy sites in one sublattice. the C and D atoms occupy sites in a second sublattice, and for which y is always near 1 2 . A statistical thermodynamic analysis for a specific defect model gives three independent “stoichiometry invariants” for the chemical potentials, e.g. μ B + μ D , μ A − μ B , and μ C − μ D , which are independent of approximation for small ratios of defect to site concentration. This result is independent of the specific defects chosen, but is obtained under the assumptions that the distribution of the A and B atoms among themselves and that of C and D atoms among themselves are random. A more general analysis that removes these assumptions still yields the same stoichiometry invariants. These invariants provide simple, model-independent relations among the chemical potentials that are extremely useful and to some extent already employed. They also provide the basis for a check on internal self-consistency when all the chemical potentials are measured. The analogous results for a ternary compound are readily extracted as a special case.
Favorable Outcome in Coccidioides Endophthalmitis-A Combined Medical and Surgical Treatment Approach.

Purpose To describe a case of Coccidioides endophthalmitis that resulted in a favorable visual outcome after a combined medical and surgical approach. Methods A 33-year-old previously healthy woman was referred for evaluation of dyspnea and left-sided vision loss, which began 3 months before, after a trip to Nevada. She was found to have a pulmonary cavitary lesion and fluffy white material in the anterior chamber. An aqueous and vitreous paracentesis grew Coccidioides species. She was managed medically with a total of 7 weekly intravitreal injections of amphotericin B and intravenous liposomal amphotericin B followed by transition to oral posaconazole. Seven months after presentation, to ensure ocular sterilization and to clear the visual axis, she underwent temporary keratoprosthesis implantation, anterior segment reconstruction, removal of a cyclitic membrane and the crystalline lens, pars plana vitrectomy, placement of a pars plana Ahmed drainage device, and penetrating keratoplasty. Results After surgical intervention and with maintenance posaconazole therapy, the patient had resolution of her dyspnea and improved uncorrected (aphakic) vision with a clear corneal graft, quiet anterior chamber, and normal optic nerve and retina. Conclusions A combined medical and surgical approach resulted in a favorable visual outcome and avoided the need for enucleation.
Cancer-associated fibroblasts promote directional cancer cell migration by aligning fibronectin

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are major components of the carcinoma microenvironment that promote tumor progression. However, the mechanisms by which CAFs regulate cancer cell migration are poorly understood. In this study, we show that fibronectin (Fn) assembled by CAFs mediates CAF–cancer cell association and directional migration. Compared with normal fibroblasts, CAFs produce an Fn-rich extracellular matrix with anisotropic fiber orientation, which guides the cancer cells to migrate directionally. CAFs align the Fn matrix by increasing nonmuscle myosin II- and platelet-derived growth factor receptor α–mediated contractility and traction forces, which are transduced to Fn through α5β1 integrin. We further show that prostate cancer cells use αv integrin to migrate efficiently and directionally on CAF-derived matrices. We demonstrate that aligned Fn is a prominent feature of invasion sites in human prostatic and pancreatic carcinoma samples. Collectively, we present a new mechanism by which CAFs organize the Fn matrix and promote directional cancer cell migration.
Customer bill impacts of energy efficiency and net-metered photovoltaic system investments

Abstract Utility regulators and policymakers are concerned about potential increases in retail rates driven by energy efficiency (EE) programs and distributed solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, which may adversely affect utility customers that do not invest in these technologies (i.e., non-participants) and more so than those that do (i.e., participants). We assess customer bill impacts of illustrative EE programs and net-metered PV systems for a prototypical northeast utility. We find that the timing of customer EE or PV investments matters and that modest energy savings may fail to yield financial benefits sufficient to offset concomitant increases in retail rates.
Selective plane illumination microscopy (SPIM) with time-domain fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) for volumetric measurement of cleared mouse brain samples

We have developed an imaging technique which combines selective plane illumination microscopy with time-domain fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (SPIM-FLIM) for three-dimensional volumetric imaging of cleared mouse brains with micro- to mesoscopic resolution. The main features of the microscope include a wavelength-adjustable pulsed laser source (Ti:sapphire) (near-infrared) laser, a BiBO frequency-doubling photonic crystal, a liquid chamber, an electrically focus-tunable lens, a cuvette based sample holder, and an air (dry) objective lens. The performance of the system was evaluated with a lifetime reference dye and micro-bead phantom measurements. Intensity and lifetime maps of three-dimensional human embryonic kidney (HEK) cell culture samples and cleared mouse brain samples expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) (donor only) and green and red fluorescent protein [positive Forster (fluorescence) resonance energy transfer] were acquired. The results show that the SPIM-FLIM system can be used for sample sizes ranging from single cells to whole mouse organs and can serve as a powerful tool for medical and biological research.
Phospholipase A inhibition of acetylcholine receptor function in Torpedo californica membrane vesicles.

Abstract A protein isolated from Naja naja siamensis venom on the basis of its phospholipase A activity inhibits acetylcholine receptor function in post-synaptic membrane vesicles from Torpedo californica . Specifically, the phospholipase A prevents the large increase in sodium efflux that can normally be induced by carbamylcholine, a receptor agonist. The phospholipase A inhibition shows the following properties: 1) it occurs at concentrations 50 times lower than the concentrations required for inhibition by α-neurotoxins; 2) the phospholipase A has no effect on the binding properties of the receptor; 3) the inhibition is abolished by removal of calcium ions; and 4) some phospholipid hydrolysis accompanies inhibition. It is suggested that the phospholipase A acts enzymatically to uncouple ligand binding from ion permeability in the receptor containing membrane vesicles.
Effects of baicalin on inflammatory reaction, oxidative stress and PKDl and NF-kB protein expressions in rats with severe acute pancreatitis1.

Abstract Purpose: To investigate the effects of baicalin on inflammatory reaction, oxidative stress and protein kinase D1 (PKD1) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) protein expressions in severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) rats. Methods: Sixty rats were divided into sham operation, model, and low-, medium- and high-dose baicalin group. SAP model was established in later 4 groups. The later 3 groups were injected with 0.1, 0.2 and 0.4 ml/100 g 5% baicalin injection, respectively. At 12 h, the serum SAP related indexes and inflammatory factors, peripheral blood CD3 and γδT cell percentages, wet/dry ratio and pancreas ascites volume, oxidative stress indexes and PKD1 and NF-κB protein expressions in pancreatic tissue were determined. Results: Compared with model group, in high-dose baicalin group the wet/dry ratio and ascites volume, serum amylase level, phospholipase A2 activity, TNF-α, IL-1 and IL-6 levels, and pancreatic malondialdehyde level and PKD1 and NF-κB protein expression were significantly decreased (P < 0.05), and peripheral blood CD3 and γδT cell percentages and pancreatic superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase levels were significantly increased (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Baicalin can resist the inflammatory reaction and oxidative stress, and down-regulate protein kinase D1 and nuclear factor-kappa B protein expressions, thus exerting the protective effects on severe acute pancreatitis in rats.
Guidance Document for Hepatic Hemangioma (Infantile and Congenital) Evaluation and Monitoring.

Objective To define the types of hepatic hemangiomas using the updated International Society for the Study of Vascular Anomalies classification and to create a set of guidelines for their diagnostic evaluation and monitoring. Study design We used a rigorous, transparent consensus protocol defined by an approved methodology, with input from multiple pediatric experts in vascular anomalies from hematology-oncology, surgery, pathology, radiology, and gastroenterology. Results In the first section, we define the subtypes of hepatic hemangiomas based on the clinical course, histology, and radiologic characteristics. We recommend against using the term “hemangioma” for any vascular malformations affecting the liver or any hypervascular tumors that are not characterized by the approved definitions. We recommend against using the term “hemangioendothelioma” for infantile or congenital hemangioma. The following 2 sections dedicated to infantile hepatic hemangioma and to congenital hepatic hemangioma individually describe these subtypes in further detail, including complications to be considered during monitoring and respectively recommended screening evaluations. Conclusions Although institutional variations may exist for specific clinical details, a clear understanding of the diagnosis of hepatic hemangiomas affecting children and the possible complications that require screening during the monitoring period should be standard. As children with hepatic hemangiomas are managed by different medical and surgical specialties, we offer an expert opinion multidisciplinary consensus based on current literature and on data extracted from the liver hemangioma registry.
Correlation of Objective Assessment Data With General Surgery Resident In-Training Evaluation Reports and Operative Volumes

Objective Faculty evaluations, ABSITE scores, and operative case volumes often tell little about true resident performance. We developed an objective structured clinical examination called the Surgical X-Games (5 rooms, 15 minutes each, 12-15 tests total, different for each postgraduate [PGY] level). We hypothesized that performance in X-Games will prove more useful in identifying areas of strength or weakness among general surgery (GS) residents than faculty evaluations, ABSITE scores, or operative cases volumes. Design PGY 2 to 5 GS residents (n = 35) were tested in a semiannual X-Games assessment using multiple simulation tasks: laparoscopic skills, bowel anastomosis, CT/CXR analysis, chest tube placement, etc. over 1 academic year. Resident scores were compared to their ABSITE, in-training evaluation reports, and operating room case numbers. Setting Academic medical center. Participants PGY-2, 3, 4, and 5 GS residents at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. Results Results varied greatly within each class except for staff evaluations: in-training evaluation reports medians for PGY-2s were 5.3 (range: 5.0-6.0), PGY-3s 5.9 (5.5-6.3), PGY-4s 5.6 (5.0-6.0), and PGY-5s were 6.1 (5.6-6.9). Although ABSITE and operating room case volumes fluctated greatly with each PGY class, only X-Games scores (median: PGY-2 = 82, PGY-3 = 61, PGY-4 = 76, and PGY-5 = 60) correlated positively (p Conclusions X-Games assessment generated wide differentiation of resident performance quickly, inexpensively, and objectively. Although “Minnesota-nice” surgical staff may feel all GS trainees are “above average,” objective assessment tells us otherwise.
Long-term hearing outcomes of children with symptomatic congenital CMV treated with valganciclovir.

Abstract Objectives Congenital human cytomegalovirus (cCMV) is a leading cause of pediatric hearing loss. Recent literature has suggested that valganciclovir (VGCV) therapy can improve hearing outcomes. The objective of this study was to evaluate the long-term hearing outcomes among symptomatic CMV patients treated with VGCV. Methods A retrospective chart review of symptomatic CMV patients treated with VGCV was completed. The primary endpoint was the change in best ear hearing scores prior to treatment and after follow-up audiograms. A paired-sample t-test was used to evaluate the data. Results A total of 16 children were included in the study and participants were followed for an average of 3.2 years. There was a measurable worsening, but not a statistically significant change in the best ear hearing scores, where the mean change was 11.9 dB (p-value = 0.070). However, 14/16 patients (87.5%, p-value Conclusions Our data did show a measurable, but not a statistically significant worsening outcome in best ear hearing. There was a significant change in both left and right ear hearing. Our results suggest that VGCV may provide only a short-term improvement in hearing outcomes; however, these preliminary post-hoc findings suggest the need for a more rigorous evaluation.
Current Treatment Options in Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Carcinoma

Poorly differentiated gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine carcinomas (GEPNECs) are a rare neoplasm with a bleak prognosis. Currently there are little prospective data available for optimal treatment. This review discusses the current available regimens and the future direction for the treatment of GEPNECs. Treatment plans for GEPNECs are often adapted from those devised for small cell lung cancer; however, differences in these malignancies exist, and GEPNECs require their own treatment paradigms. As such, current first-line treatment for GEPNECs is platinum-based chemotherapy with etoposide. Studies show that response rate and overall survival remain comparable between cisplatin and carboplatin versus etoposide and irinotecan; however, prognosis remains poor, and more efficacious therapy is needed to treat this malignancy. Additional first-line and second-line treatment options beyond platinum-based chemotherapy have also been investigated and may offer further treatment options, but again with suboptimal outcomes. Recent U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval of peptide receptor radionuclide therapy in low- and intermediate-grade neuroendocrine tumors may open the door for further research in its usefulness in GEPNECs. Additionally, the availability of checkpoint inhibitors lends promise to the treatment of GEPNECs. This review highlights the lack of large, prospective studies that focus on the treatment of GEPNECs. There is a need for randomized control trials to elucidate optimal treatment regimens specific to this malignancy. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: There are limited data available for the treatment of poorly differentiated gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine carcinomas (GEPNECs) because of the rarity of this malignancy. Much of the treatment regimens used in practice today come from research in small cell lung cancer. Given the poor prognosis of GEPNECs, it is necessary to have treatment paradigms specific to this malignancy. The aim of this literature review is to summarize the available first- and second-line GEPNEC therapy, outline future treatments, and highlight the vast gap in the literature.
Some Analytical Variations for Intercropping Studies

A number of variations of statistical design and analyses have been found in the published literature and are discussed in this chapter. The first topic discussed is a replacement series wherein the ratio of one crop to a second varies from zero to one. In this set-up, a land equivalent ratio (LER) approaches one as the proportion of a crop approaches unity. Some statistical analyses are presented for a set of data involving two wheat varieties where their proportions vary from zero to one.
Does Class Size Matter in the University Setting

University class size is a frequently debated topic among stakeholders given its relation to student achievement, teaching and learning, program evaluation, and education economics. However, the ex...
Quantile-dependent heritability of computed tomography, dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, anthropometric, and bioelectrical measures of adiposity.

Quantile-dependent expressivity occurs when a gene’s phenotypic expression depends upon whether the trait (e.g., BMI) is high or low relative to its distribution. We have previously shown that the obesity effects of a genetic risk score (GRSBMI) increased significantly with increasing quantiles of BMI. However, BMI is an inexact adiposity measure and GRSBMI explains <3% of the BMI variance. The purpose of this paper is to test BMI for quantile-dependent expressivity using a more inclusive genetic measure (h2, heritability in the narrow sense), extend the result to other adiposity measures, and demonstrate its consistency with purported gene–environment interactions. Quantile-specific offspring–parent regression slopes (βOP) were obtained from quantile regression for height (ht) and computed tomography (CT), dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA), anthropometric, and bioelectrical impedance (BIA) adiposity measures. Heritability was estimated by 2βOP/(1 + rspouse) in 6227 offspring–parent pairs from the Framingham Heart Study, where rspouse is the spouse correlation. Compared to h2 at the 10th percentile, genetic heritability was significantly greater at the 90th population percentile for BMI (3.14-fold greater, P < 10−15), waist girth/ht (3.27-fold, P < 10−15), hip girth/ht (3.12-fold, P = 6.3 × 10−14), waist-to-hip ratio (1.75-fold, P = 0.01), sagittal diameter/ht (3.89-fold, P = 3.7 × 10−7), DXA total fat/ht2 (3.62-fold, P = 0.0002), DXA leg fat/ht2 (3.29-fold, P = 2.0 × 10−11), DXA arm fat/ht2 (4.02-fold, P = 0.001), CT-visceral fat/ht2 (3.03-fold, P = 0.002), and CT-subcutaneous fat/ht2 (3.54-fold, P = 0.0004). External validity was suggested by the phenomenon’s consistency with numerous published reports. Quantile-dependent expressivity potentially explains precision medicine markers for weight gain from overfeeding or antipsychotic medications, and the modifying effects of physical activity, sleep, diet, polycystic ovary syndrome, socioeconomic status, and depression on gene–BMI relationships. Genetic heritabilities of anthropometric, CT, and DXA adiposity measures increase with increasing adiposity. Some gene–environment interactions may arise from analyzing subjects by characteristics that distinguish high vs. low adiposity rather than the effects of environmental stimuli on transcriptional and epigenetic processes.
Disparities in cancer mortality in Los Angeles County, 1999–2013: an analysis comparing trends in under-resourced and affluent regions

While cancer mortality has declined by 27% between 1991 and 2016 in the United States, there are large disparities in cancer mortality by racial/ethnic groups, socioeconomic status and access to care. The purpose of this analysis is to compare trends in cancer mortality among regions (Service Planning Areas, SPAs) in Los Angeles (LA) County that vary with respect to racial/ethnic distribution and social determinants of health, including poverty, education and access to care. We estimated age- and race/ethnicity-standardized mortality for lung, colorectal (CRC) and breast cancer for eight SPAs from 1999 to 2013. We calculated three recommended measures of disparities that reflect absolute, relative and between-group disparities. In all of LA County, statistically significant declines in age- and race/ethnicity-standardized mortality ranged from 30% for lung cancer to 20% for CRC to 15% for breast cancer. Despite some of the largest declines in the most under-resourced SPAs (South LA, East LA, South Bay), disparities between the lowest and highest mortality by SPA did not significantly change from 1999 to 2013. Despite significant declines in cancer mortality in LA County from 1999 to 2013, and in racial/ethnic groups, there was little progress toward reducing disparities among SPAs. Highest mortalities for the three cancers were observed in Antelope Valley, San Fernando Valley, San Gabriel Valley, South LA and East LA. Findings demonstrate the importance of examining regional differences in cancer mortality to identify areas with highest needs for interventions and policies to reduce cancer disparities.
Catecholaminergic Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia

Catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT) is a rare genetic disorder characterized clinically by adrenergically triggered syncope and sudden cardiac death. Although the resting 12-lead electrocardiogram is typically normal in CPVT, the presence of exercise- or catecholamine infusion-triggered premature ventricular contractions occurring in bigeminy and/or couplets as well as, in rare circumstances, in bidirectional/polymorphic ventricular tachycardia serves as the primary hallmarks of CPVT electrocardiographically. In this chapter, we examine these key electrocardiographic findings and the associated pathophysiology that gives rise to these findings at the cellular, tissue, and/or organ level.
Fluid particles only separate exponentially in the dissipation range of turbulence after extremely long times

While it is usually assumed that fluid particles separate exponentially in the dissipation range, this need not be true and the evidence for it is controversial. A re-examination of this old problem shows that fluid particles do indeed separate exponentially but only after extremely long times.
Quantum-enhanced Spectroscopy Using Two-mode Squeezed Light

We investigate the prospects of using two-mode intensity squeezed twin-beams, generated in Rb vapor, to improve the sensitivity of spectroscopic measurements in broader spectral range by engaging two-photon Raman transitions.
Pediatric In-Hospital Cardiac Arrest and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in the United States: A Review

Importance Pediatric in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) occurs frequently and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. The objective of this narrative review is to summarize the current knowledge and recommendations regarding pediatric IHCA and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Observations Each year, more than 15 000 children receive CPR for cardiac arrest during hospitalization in the United States. As many as 80% to 90% survive the event, but most patients do not survive to hospital discharge. Most IHCAs occur in intensive care units and other monitored settings and are associated with respiratory failure or shock. Bradycardia with poor perfusion is the initial rhythm in half of CPR events, and only about 10% of events have an initial shockable rhythm. Pre-cardiac arrest systems focus on identifying at-risk patients and ensuring that they are in monitored settings. Important components of CPR include high-quality chest compressions, timely defibrillation when indicated, appropriate ventilation and airway management, administration of epinephrine to increase coronary perfusion pressure, and treatment of the underlying cause of cardiac arrest. Extracorporeal CPR and measurement of physiological parameters are evolving areas in improving outcomes. Structured post-cardiac arrest care focused on targeted temperature management, optimization of hemodynamics, and careful intensive care unit management is associated with improved survival and neurological outcomes. Conclusions and relevance Pediatric IHCA occurs frequently and has a high mortality rate. Early identification of risk, prevention, delivery of high-quality CPR, and post-cardiac arrest care can maximize the chances of achieving favorable outcomes. More research in this field is warranted.
PD-L1 siRNA Theranostics With a Dextran Nanoparticle Highlights the Importance of Nanoparticle Delivery for Effective Tumor PD-L1 Downregulation.

Purpose: The inhibition of immune checkpoints such as programmed cell death protein ligand-1 (PD-L1/CD274) with antibodies is providing novel opportunities to expose cancer cells to the immune system. Antibody based checkpoint blockade can, however, result in serious autoimmune complications because normal tissues also express immune checkpoints. As sequence-specific gene-silencing agents, the availability of siRNA has significantly expanded the specificity and range of ‘druggable’ targets making them promising agents for precision medicine in cancer. Here we have demonstrated the ability of a novel biodegradable dextran based theranostic nanoparticle (NP) to deliver siRNA downregulating PD-L1 in tumors. Optical imaging highlighted the importance of NP delivery and accumulation in tumors to achieve effective downregulation with siRNA NPs, and demonstrated low delivery and accumulation in several PD-L1 expressing normal tissues. Methods: The dextran scaffold was functionalized with small molecules containing amine groups through acetal bonds. The NP was decorated with a Cy5.5 NIR probe allowing visualization of NP delivery, accumulation and biodistribution. MDA-MB-231 triple negative human breast cancer cells were inoculated orthotopically or subcutaneously to achieve differences in vascular delivery in the tumors. Molecular characterization of PD-L1 mRNA and protein expression in cancer cells and tumors was performed with qRT-PCR and immunoblot analysis. Results: The PD-L1 siRNA dextran NPs effectively downregulated PD-L1 in MDA-MB-231 cells. We identified a significant correlation between NP delivery and the accumulation and extent of PD-L1 downregulation with in vivo imaging. The size of the NP of ~ 20 nm allowed delivery through leaky tumor vasculature but not through the vasculature of high PD-L1 expressing normal tissue such as the spleen and lungs. Conclusions: Here we have demonstrated, for the first time, the feasibility of downregulating PD-L1 in tumors using siRNA delivered with a biodegradable dextran polymer that was decorated with an imaging reporter. Our data demonstrate the importance of tumor NP delivery and accumulation in achieving effective downregulation, highlighting the importance of imaging in siRNA NP delivery. Effective delivery of these siRNA carrying NPs in the tumor but not in normal tissues may mitigate some of the side-effects of immune checkpoint inhibitors by sparing PD-L1 inhibition in these tissues.
Black Sites of Speculation: A Case for Theorizing Black Childhood as a Subject in Black Adult Narratives

Scholars studying black girls’ histories in the US have identified two particular challenges: the dearth of sources, and black girls’ exclusion from the categories of childhood and girlhood as generally defined in American historical sources. In this chapter, the author pushes back in an effort to find enslaved girlhoods through new approaches. While Owens recognizes the extreme brutality and objectification that the slave regime imposed on enslaved children, she contends that scholars must engage existing sources, especially slave narratives, critically and creatively, to read them for their evidence about black childhood and youth. Focusing on Harriet Jacobs’ Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl, Owens demonstrates her method, interpreting the text as a “site of speculation.” Owens demonstrates that Jacobs humanizes enslaved black girls by illuminating three stages of enslaved girlhood. Further, Jacobs’s stages of enslaved girlhood suggest that black women understood their slave narratives as ideal sites for theorizing their own childhood in retrospect, while also situating black girls within larger discourses of abolition and women’s rights.
IN THESE UNPRECEDENTED TIMES: A CRITICAL INCIDENTS TECHNIQUE EXAMINATION OF STUDENT PERCEPTIONS’ OF SATISFYING AND DISSATISFYING LEARNING EXPERIENCES

Higher education has and continues to be sharply disrupted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In this paper, our focus is on the pandemic’s impact on higher education, specifically on undergraduate marketing students’ perceptions of learning experiences during the switch from traditional face-to-face learning to online approaches. Understanding student perspectives on which specific aspects of their learning experience were satisfying or dissatisfying offers faculty valuable insight as to how to navigate this (for many) new teaching environment and enhance student experiences and outcomes. Collecting data during spring semester 2020 offers a unique view from students as universities abruptly pivoted from previously face-to-face instruction to online learning. The Critical Incidents Technique was used to capture the voice and perceptions of marketing students. Results are reported and aligned with teaching strategies for faculty to utilize in this new (for many) learning environment, as well as future learning/teaching shifts necessitated by other disruptions in higher education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] Copyright of Marketing Education Review is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)