cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
André Antoine's Initial Classical Experiment: The 1904 King Lear

Like other major theatre artists at the turn of the twentieth century, Andre Antoine sought a new theatrical style to replace the dominant strain of realism. His development of naturalism and his championing of the cause of the school of Becque, Brieux, and Jullien are commonplaces of theatre history, but Antoine's efforts to extend his style, chiefly by applying it to a repertory of classical plays, have not received a great deal of attention. While it is easier to consign Antoine to a naturalistic pigeon hole, a consideration of the innovative course of his later career might help illuminate our similarly eclectic era.
A paired-associates learning task involving two sensory modalities

Thirty Ss served in a paired-associates learning task using three different sets of color-tone pairs. The data indicated that a “synesthetic” pairing of the colors and tones, based on correlated physical characteristics of the sense modalities, markedly influenced the rate of acquisition of these pairs. This group learned the pairs with significantly less errors and trials than did the other groups in which the pairs were randomly determined even though the “synesthetic” pairings were not preferred in a pre-learning task.
B7.1 expression by the weakly immunogenic F98 rat glioma does not enhance immunogenicity.

Enhanced immunogenicity has been reported following transfection of a variety of immunogenic tumors with the B7.1 co-stimulatory molecule. The purpose of the present study was to determine if transfection of a weakly immunogenic rat brain tumor, the F98 glioma, with the gene encoding B7.1 could enhance its immunogenicity. F98 cells were transfected with a plasmid containing the B7.1 gene, and stable transfectants (F98/B7.1) were obtained. Flow cytometric analysis confirmed the expression of B7.1 and MHC class I antigens on the cell surface. To investigate the effects of B7.1 expression on the tumorigenicity of the F98 glioma, Fischer rats were implanted intracerebrally with either F98 (wild-type) or F98/B7.1 transfected cells. No significant differences in survival times were noted. Mean survival times of 21.8 and 24.0 days were observed for the respective groups at a challenge dose of 103 cells. These differences in survival time were not significant. To determine if expression of B7.1 enhanced the immunogenicity of the F98 glioma, rats were vaccinated weekly for 3 weeks with 107 mitomycin C-treated F98 or F98/B7.1 cells injected subcutaneously and then challenged intracerebrally with F98 cells 1 week later. Unvaccinated animals or those that received wild-type F98 cells as a vaccine had a survival time (mean ± s.d.) of 22.3 ± 1.5 days following tumor challenge versus 20.0 ± 1.7 days for rats that had been vaccinated with F98/B7.1. Although we recognize that it might be possible to design more effective vaccination regimes, nevertheless, our data indicate that transfection of the B7.1 gene into the F98 rat glioma did not enhance its immunogenicity, and that other approaches will be required.
Simultaneous Optimization of Crude Oil Blending and Purchase Planning with Delivery Uncertainty Consideration

Crude-oil blending is a common practice to obtain qualified mixing oils for refinery processing at low costs. The blending component crudes are subject to inventory constraints, which in turn are dynamically affected by the refinery purchase plan including the crude-oil types, amounts, and delivery over a planned period of time. As the crude-oil price and availability constantly changes in a volatile market, the crude-oil blending and purchase planning should be coordinated and simultaneously optimized to maximize the potential profitability of a refinery plant. This becomes even more important when the uncertainty of crude-oil delivery time is also taken into account. In this paper, a general MINLP (mixed-integer nonlinear programming) model is developed to address the profit optimization of crude-oil blending and purchase planning in refinery plants. Inventory-related flexibility indexes are developed to characterize the ability of a refinery for handling the uncertainty of crude-oil delivery delays. In...
Discussion on Genetics of Wide Compatibility by Pedigree Analysis

The wide compatibility and indica-japonica differentiation of T984 and its seven pedigree parents i. e. C57, Jingyin 35, No. 300, Keqing 3, IR26, IR24, IR8 were tested. The result indicated that none of these seven pedigree parents showed wide compatibility. However the rice variety T984 which was originated from above seven varieties showed wide compatibility, when it was crossed with indica(Nanjing 11) and japonica (Akihikari and Zaoshajing) testers, their hybrids gave an almost normal fertility of 72.84%, 74.42% and 67.24%, respectively. In conclusion, the wide compatible lines can also be generated from hybridization between indica and japonica varieties both of which do not show wide compatibility.
Metabolism of sulfoconjugated thyroid hormone derivatives in developing sheep

Although the production of thyroxine (T4) in the developing ovine fetus ranges from 20 to 50 micrograms.kg-1.day-1, production rates for 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine (T3) average only 1-2 micrograms.kg-1.day-1, whereas reverse T3 (rT3) production rates approach 5-6 micrograms.kg-1.day-1. Thus the fate of the majority of fetal T4 production is uncertain. Recently we have reported significant concentrations of various thyroid hormone sulfoconjugates in serum and other fetal compartments. In the present study, we used steady-state kinetic techniques in developing sheep to establish the clearance and production rates for T4, T3, and rT3 sulfates. These studies confirm that T4, T3, and rT3 sulfate are predominant metabolites of thyroid hormone in the developing ovine fetus. Plasma clearance rates for T3, T4, and rT3 sulfates are low in the fetus, averaging 0.67 +/- 0.07, 1.46 +/- 0.11, and 4.1 +/- 1 ml.kg-1.min-1, respectively. Clearance rates for these thyrosulfoconjugates increase two to fourfold postnatally, probably reflecting increased activity of 5'-monodeiodinase after birth. Moreover, fetal production rates for these sulfated thyroid hormone metabolites exceed those of 2-wk-old sheep 4- to 10-fold. The data suggest that a significant route of fetal T4 metabolism is sulfation followed by deiodination to rT3 sulfate.
Physical and social factors associated with early adolescent headache and stomachache pain.

Purpose Approximately one third of adolescents in the United States report experiencing frequent headaches and stomachaches. We examined the association of psychosocial and physical factors with the report of weekly headaches or stomachaches using a representative sample of US teens. Methods Data for this project are from the survey of Health Behavior in School-Aged Children (HBSC), 2005-2006, a nationally representative sample of students in grades 6-10 in the United States. The total sample includes 12,070 students aged 11-17. Using logistic regression we modeled chronic headache and stomachache separately with the same set of physical predictors (dieting and substance use habits) and psychosocial predictors (attitudes towards self-image, peers, and family) along with demographic controls. Results Almost 20% of respondents experienced headaches weekly, and 12% experienced abdominal pain. Both physical and psychosocial factors were predictive of chronic symptoms. Increased substance usage and unhealthy eating practices were associated with the likelihood of experiencing both headaches and stomachaches. Negative self-image, family relationships, and school life were also predictive of symptom frequency. Conclusion Headaches and stomachaches are associated with poor eating and substance use habits, as well as problems with self-image or social relationships among adolescents. For health care professionals, a holistic approach is needed to effectively address symptoms and prevent long-term health problems.
Interview with Mark Frasier: a Michael J Fox Foundation perspective on precision medicine in Parkinson's

This interview was conducted by Lauren Pulling, Editor of Neurology Central. The full interview can be accessed on Neurology Central as part of the NCTalks podcast series which is available at: www.neurology-central.com/2016/11/28/nctalks-mark-frasier-precision-medicine-parkinsons-disease Mark Frasier co-manages a team of research professionals who stay closely linked to the Parkinson's research community in order to develop an aggressive and innovative agenda for accelerating research and drug development for Parkinson's disease. He also supports the foundation's priority interest in developing biomarkers for Parkinson's disease that will accelerate clinical trials of new drugs. He earned an undergraduate degree in biochemistry from the University of Dayton and a PhD in pharmacology from Loyola University Chicago. He completed his postdoctoral work in the Neuroscience Discovery Research Group at Eli Lilly, Inc., in Indianapolis, Indiana, where he worked on drug discovery research in Parkinson's and Alzhe...
Acceleration of Cardiac Simulations for Cloud Computing Resources

Computer simulation has greatly facilitated our understanding of the cardiovascular system and is boosting the development of personalized medicine for cardiac diseases. The simulation of the heart is computationally intensive due to the complexity and multi-scale essence of the cardiovascular system. Parallel computing has been one of the commonly used solutions for such large-scale simulations. More recently, rapidly growing cloud computing resources, such as Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud and Google Compute Engine, provide a new infrastructure for parallel computing. However, the high latencies of the network limit the application of cloud computing. In this study, we developed a novel algorithm to facilitate the utilization of cloud based computing resources. By exploiting the fact that the time scale of diffusion of ions is much slower than the time scale of reaction in ion channels/pumps, this algorithm improves the simulation speed by more than twice as much; the larger the latencies in networks, the faster our algorithm performs the simulations. Targeted computer models at many system scales will be drastically optimized in terms of efficiency including cardiac tissue models, models of subcellular calcium cycling, and a combination of them. Techniques developed here can be also applied for any number of other complex reaction-diffusion systems in other fields.
A Tradition Ignored: Review Essay of John Symons' On Dennett

Although Symons' recent book, On Dennett(Wadsworth, 2002), provides scientists with ahelpful, general introduction to Dennett'sthought, it presents a skewed version of thehistory of the philosophy of mind. Inparticular, the continental tradition is almostentirely ignored, if not glibly dismissed. As aresult, the unwary reader of this book wouldnever realize that Dilthey, Sartre and Husserl,like Dennett, offer a ``middle ground'' betweennaturalistic realism and naturalisticeliminativism. However, unlike Dennett, therespective positions of Dilthey, Sartre andHusserl are not ontologically indifferent, butinstead, present a non-naturalistic form ofrealism that does not simultaneously invokeCartesian dualism.
Participation in recreational activities buffers the impact of perceived stress on quality of life in adults with autism spectrum disorder

As the number of adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) grows, the need to identify modifiable correlates of positive outcomes and quality of life (QoL) gains in importance. Research indicates that perceived stress is significantly correlated with QoL in adults with ASD. Studies in the general population of individuals without disabilities indicate that greater participation in social and recreational activities may lessen the negative impact of perceived stress on well-being, and this association may also hold among adults with ASD. We hypothesized that: (1) perceived stress would be negatively associated with QoL; and (2) higher frequency of participation in social activities and recreational activities would moderate the relationship between perceived stress and QoL. We used data collected from 60 adults with ASD aged 24-55 and their mothers to address our hypotheses. Findings indicate that adults with ASD with higher perceived stress are likely to have poorer QoL. Furthermore, greater participation in recreational activities buffers the impact of perceived stress on QoL, but no buffering effect was observed for participation in social activities. These findings suggest that interventions and services that provide supports and opportunities for participation in recreational activities may help adults with ASD manage their stress and lead to better QoL. Autism Res 2017, 10: 973-982. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Management and Treatment of Primary Immune Thrombocytopenia in Children

Primary immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), the most common isolated thrombocytopenia of childhood, is involved in immunological mechanisms. ITP has shown heterogeneous pathophysiology, clinical features, and response to treatment. Most children with primary ITP recover within 6–12 months, but some patients who develop refractory or chronic ITP require especially careful medical management. To date, most conventional treatments consist of immunosuppressive or immune-modulating drugs. The International Consensus Report on the management of primary ITP has stated the goal for ITP management as achieving a safe level of platelet counts to avoid severe bleeding and minimizing therapy-related adverse effects. More recently, a new class of drugs, rituximab and thrombopoietin receptor (TPO-R) agonists, have been developed for the use in treating patients with ITP including children. The increasing clinical usage of these agents might improve therapeutic approaches and managements for children with ITP.
A time-variant model of surface chloride build-up for improved service life predictions

Abstract Current service life models for predicting the time to chloride-induced corrosion initiation of steel reinforcement in concrete structures are based on a hypothesized surface chloride concentration, Cs, as a boundary condition. This is either assumed to be constant or varies with time, generally disregarding other factors that influence Cs. For example, Fickian models use a constant Cs and existing time-variant models assume Cs is only a function of time. In this paper, an improved time-variant Cs model is hypothesized using general physical concepts and is then validated by an empirical study. The proposed model, as opposed to the existing time-variant models, not only accounts for the variability of Cs with exposure time but also incorporates the effects of time to exposure and the effects of the concentration of chlorides in the exposure environment. The model assumes that Cs is sigmoidal in shape with an asymptote that is a function of the concentration of chlorides in the environment. The input variables for the proposed model were selected based on best subset sampling analysis on the results of the experimental work to determine the influence of water-to-cement ratio, time to exposure, the concentration of chlorides in the exposure environment, and exposure time on Cs. The accuracy of the proposed model is assessed versus existing time-variant Cs models and the results indicate that the proposed model better predicts the Cs in concrete exposed to chlorides. Moreover, results of service life predictions using the proposed model show that the proposed model yields more accurate results, better protecting owners from financial and engineering risks.
Poster 183: Incidence of venous thromboembolism in patients with acute spinal cord by age and ethnicity.1

Abstract Objective: To determine the incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) across different ages and ethnic groups. Design: Retrospective data analysis of the linked California Patient Discharge Data Set from 1991 to 1995. Setting: California. Participants: 6999 patients admitted to California hospitals for complete and incomplete SCI. Interventions: Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures: Confirmed VTE, according to age, defined by the International Classification of Diseases, 9th Edition code, and a positive test, such as Doppler, ventilation-perfusion scan, or spiral computed tomography, during hospitalization for acute SCI. The incidence of probable VTE by ethnicity was determined by diagnosis alone, whether or not a confirming test was entered in the database. SCI was defined as complete or incomplete injuries between C4 and T12. Ethnicity was determined by race as documented in the data set. Results: Of 6999 patients admitted with SCI, the breakdown of VTE incidence for persons >19 years of age ranged from 2.1% to 6.42%. The highest VTE was among 55 to 59 year olds (6.42%). There were no VTE events in patients P Conclusions: The incidence of probable VTE in African Americans with SCI was significantly higher than in whites and this evidence requires further investigation. In addition, the incidence of confirmed VTE in peripubertal children with SCI was clinically significant (1.61%–3.3%). Further study on treatment of VTEs, as well as length of prophylaxis postinjury by ethnicity and age, needs to be conducted.
Optimal campaigns in end-to-end continuous pharmaceuticals manufacturing. Part 2: Dynamic optimization

Abstract We investigate theoretical optimal campaigns in a continuous process of pharmaceuticals production. The simulated process, inspired by a pilot plant previously tested at MIT, includes several reaction and separation steps to produce final tablets. This paper, demonstrates the use of nonsmooth differential-algebraic equations (DAEs) framework for such optimal campaigns design. We embed the model developed in the first part of this series in a dynamic optimization problem formulated as a hybrid discrete/continuous and nonsmooth problem. We enforce the quality constraints only on an interior epoch (on-spec) and optimize its duration. We then use a gradient-based optimization tool (IPOPT) to solve the problem. We consider the on-specification productivity over the entire campaign. Various control valves are chosen as decision variables, as well as the timings of the control switchings. The yield and the productivity of the process are considered as objectives under a constant (short) time horizon. Pareto curves of optimal yield and productivity for various campaign durations are calculated. The results show a significant improvement over a “nominal” operating procedure that only considers steady-state operation. This methodology can be used to guide decision makers, in both the design stage of new plants and the operation of existing configurations.
IN DIABETIC PATIENTS MULTIPLE ARTERIAL GRAFTS IMPROVE LONG-TERM SURVIVAL COMPARED WITH CONVENTIONAL CORONARY ARTERY BYPASS SURGERY OR STENTS

Diabetes mellitus is a risk factor for late death in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Whether extending multiple arterial grafts (MA) to diabetic patients improves survival compared with conventional left internal mammary artery
Overview of the management of postural tachycardia syndrome in pregnant patients.

Abstract Postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a chronic condition characterized by symptoms of orthostatic intolerance. Pregnancy can cause different physiological changes in cardiovascular parameters, that could have greater impact on POTS patients. In this review, we discuss the management of POTS in the pregnant and obstetric settings.
Infant handling in bonobos (Pan paniscus): Exploring functional hypotheses and the relationship to oxytocin.

Abstract Infant handling describes interactions between infants and non-maternal group members and is widespread across mammalian taxa. The expression of infant handling behaviors, defined as any affiliative or agonistic interaction between a group member and an infant, varies considerably among primate species. Several functional hypotheses may explain the adaptive value of infant handling including the Kin Selection hypothesis, which describes handling as a mechanism through which indirect fitness is increased and predicts a bias in handling behaviors directed toward related (genetic) infants; the Alliance Formation hypothesis, which describes handling as a social commodity and predicts females with infants will support handlers during conflict; and the Learning-to-Mother hypothesis, which describes handling as a mechanism through which handlers learn species-specific maternal behaviors and predicts that handling will occur most frequently in immature and nulliparous females. Using behavioral observation and data on urinary oxytocin, a neuropeptide hormone known to modulate maternal care and social bonds in mammals, the purpose of this study was to describe the pattern of infant handling in bonobos (Pan paniscus) and to explore proposed functional hypotheses. Data show that related infant-handler dyads occurred significantly more frequently than unrelated infant-handler dyads during some of the study period and that handling was positively correlated with support during conflict. Data also showed that immature and nulliparous females handled infants significantly more than other age-sex categories and exhibited higher post handling oxytocin values than other age-sex class. The trends identified in this data set provide insight into the role oxytocin may play in facilitating care-giving behaviors in young female bonobos and help to narrow the focus of future research efforts, particularly those associated with the Kin Selection, Alliance Formation, and Learning-to-Mother functional hypotheses.
Abstract 17183: Cardiac Magnetic Resonance with Late Gadolinium Enhancement is a Marker of Active Inflammation in Constrictive Pericarditis Patients: Imaging and Biochemical Correlation

Background: The diagnosis of constrictive pericarditis (CP) is problematic and there is limited data on the role of cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) with late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) and inflammatory markers in the diagnosis and management of CP. Hypothesis: We sought to study the correlation of CMR LGE and inflammatory markers with disease activity of CP and response to treatment. Methods: We identified 59 patients (mean age 52±10 years, 64% female) with confirmed medically managed CP between 2007 and 2010 who had serial CMR and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) at baseline and follow-up (26±16 weeks). Results: At baseline, LGE was absent in 9 patients (18%) (Group 1) and present in 50 (84%) (Group 2). Patients in Group 2 had worse heart failure symptoms, higher baseline hs-CRP levels, and were more likely to be treated with prednisone and colchicine (Table 1). On follow-up CMR, none of the patients in Group 1 demonstrated LGE while the patients in Group 2 showed reduction. There was a significant decrease in heart failure symptoms and hs-CRP in Group 2 (P=0.01). Conclusion: In patients with CP, CMR can be used as a measure of ongoing inflammation and its presence correlates with disease activity. It can be performed serially in CP patients to follow disease progression and resolution with medical management, thus avoiding unwanted referrals to surgery.
Further studies on the effect of hypothalamic lesions in the sand rat (Psammomys obesus)

Median eminence lesions, in the area of the arcuate nucleus, appear to decrease, one hour post oral glucose, blood glucose levels in hyperglycemic rats, independent of changes in weight.
The Utility and Validity of Suprasternal Notch (SSN) Echocardiography in Congenital Heart Disease (CHD)

Echocardiographic imaging of the transverse aortic arch (TAA) and right pulmonary artery (RPA) may be obtained from the SSN. Nevertheless, the quantitative accuracy and utility of this technique has not been assessed in children. Accordingly, the present study was designed to validate echocardiographic measurement of these structures, define normal values, and abnormal variations in patients with CHD. For 10 patients undergoing cardiac catheterization suprasternal notch echo-angiographic correlation for inner-diameter measurements produced correlation coefficients of 0.96 for the TAA and 0.95 for the RPA establishing the quantitative accuracy of echo visualization. Further, ultrasonic opacification by selective saline injection validated the identification of these vessels. Twenty normal newborns (aged 24–72 hours, weight 2–3.5 kg) were shown to have RPA = 0.90 ± 0.09 cm (SE), TAA 1.07 ± 0.07 cm and TAA/RPA ratio 1.16 ± 0.04. TAA/RPA ratio was not significantly different (1.21 ± 0.04) in 50 normal children aged 2 to 10 years but the ratio was increased in patients with catheterization proved Tetralogy 2.21 ± 0.3 (p < 0.005) (n=10) and in aortic stenosis 1.55 ± 0.18 (p < 0.05) (n=7). The Tetralogy patients had increased TAA and decreased RPA while the patients with aortic stenosis had post stenotic dilatation of the ascending aorta extending to the TAA.
Electrostatic Removal and Manipulation of Small Particles and Surface Cleaning Applications

Abstract Electrostatic forces are effective for removal of contaminant particles on surfaces and for manipulation and transport of micro- and nanoscale particles. Removal of particles depends on overcoming the adhesion forces of the particle to the surface. A typical particle removal system consists of a series of electrodes connected to a power source embedded in an insulating layer on the surface. A single-phase or polyphase voltage applied to the electrodes generates a standing or traveling wave, respectively. The particles experience a Coulomb repulsion force that exceeds the adhesion force and are lifted off the surface and are transported away from the surface by the dielectrophoretic traveling wave. Some novel applications of electrostatic forces are discussed including dust particle removal from various surfaces; electrostatic spraying for surface disinfection; gecko adhesion; pumping of insulating fluids; and micromanipulation of small particles.
Creditor Rights and Aggregate Factors in Loan Terms

Weak creditor rights introduce contracting frictions and magnify conflicts of interest between borrowers and creditors. We examine the effects of creditor rights on the sensitivity of bank lending terms to aggregate relative to firm-specific information. We formulate two competing hypotheses. On the one hand, weaker creditor rights can amplify the bank’s screening and monitoring role, increasing the value of firm-specific information for the pricing of default risk. On the other hand, weaker creditor rights increase the incentives and ability of solvent borrowers to default strategically, particularly when aggregate performance is weak. Empirically, we find that loan spreads become more sensitive to aggregate factors and less sensitive to firm-specific fundamentals when creditor rights are weaker, consistent with the second prediction. Our findings suggest that weak creditor rights reduce the ability of borrowers with strong fundamentals to raise bank debt, lead to more correlated bank lending decisions, and may decrease allocative efficiency.
Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase-Producing Escherichia coli Meningitis and Cerebral Abscess in a Neonate: Therapeutic Challenge

We report a case of a 12-day-old term neonate with extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing Escherichia coli (E. coli) meningitis and cerebral abscess. The patient received a 7-day course of antibiotics just few days prior to the infection. The incidence of infections from ESBL-producing E. coli is increasingly emerging. Antimicrobial agents must be vigilantly utilized to prevent the new highly resistant bacteria.
Sorafenib plus intensive chemotherapy improves survival in patients with newly diagnosed, FLT3‐internal tandem duplication mutation–positive acute myeloid leukemia

Background The addition of midostaurin to induction chemotherapy improves survival in younger patients with newly diagnosed, FLT3-mutated acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Sorafenib is a potent multikinase inhibitor with efficacy when given as monotherapy. The authors investigated whether the addition of sorafenib to intensive induction chemotherapy improves outcomes in patients with FLT3-internal tandem duplication (ITD)-mutated AML. Methods In total, 183 patients who were newly diagnosed with FLT3-ITD-mutated AML between February 2001 and December 2017 were identified. Of these, 79 patients (43%) underwent intensive chemotherapy with the addition of sorafenib, and 104 (57%) received intensive chemotherapy alone. Propensity score matching identified 42 patients in each cohort. Results The overall response rate was 98% in the sorafenib cohort and 83% in the intensive chemotherapy cohort (P = .057). The median follow-up was 54 months. The median event-free survival was 35 months in the sorafenib cohort and 8 months in the intensive chemotherapy cohort (P = .019), and the median overall survival was 42 and 13 months, respectively (P = .026). With censoring at the time of allogeneic stem cell transplantation, the median event-free survival was 31 and 8 months in the sorafenib and intensive therapy cohorts, respectively (P = .031), and the median overall survival was not reached and 10 months, respectively (P = .001). Multivariate Cox proportional hazards models confirmed that treatment with sorafenib was a favorable prognostic factor (P = .009; hazard ratio, 0.558; 95% CI, 0.360-0.865). Conclusions The addition of sorafenib improves survival in patients with FLT3-ITD-mutated AML regardless of whether they undergo allogeneic stem cell transplantation.
Machine Vision for Inspection

One of the most important areas of application of machine vision today is that of inspection and measurement, because it is this area where the greatest economic benefits are likely to be realized in the near term. This article reviews some of the general concepts of machine vision from the point of view of using machine vision for inspection, measurement, and process control.
A dietary assessment tool to estimate arsenic and cadmium exposures from locally grown foods

Certain food products have been shown to accumulate arsenic (As) and cadmium (Cd) making it critical to monitor individual’s intake, particularly when they live near sources of environmental contamination. After a literature review, a novel dietary assessment was conducted to estimate a child’s potential exposure to these metal(loid)s via consumption of locally grown foods in communities impacted by active or legacy resource extraction activities. Mean ingestion rates of As- and Cd-translocating crops belonging to the Asteraceae, Brassicaceae, Caricaceae, Amaranthaceae, Cucurbitaceae, Liliaceae, Solanaceae, Apiaceae, and Fabaceae plant families were calculated for children: 1 to < 2 years, 2 to < 3 years, and 3 to < 6 years of age. These calculated ingestion rates ranged from 0 to 143,571 mg day−1. Farmer–consumer relationship was the leading motivation for buying locally grown foods, while lack of experience/unfamiliarity was the most frequently reported reason for not buying locally. The median percentages of child’s yearly consumption of fruits and vegetables originating from stores (conventionally grown) and from local sources (farmer’s market) were 48% and 38%, respectively. Tomato was the crop with the highest intake rate among children 1 to < 2 years and 2 to < 3 years of age and broccoli for children 3 to < 6 years of age. It was concluded that families who are reliant on locally grown food products may be disproportionately exposed to As and Cd, which could cause detrimental health effects.
Enhancement of crystallinity of imine-linked covalent organic frameworks via aldehyde modulators

Organic additives known as modulators have been used to improve the crystallinity of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) and metal–organic frameworks (MOFs). Here, we demonstrate that benzaldehyde is an effective modulator for enhancing the crystallinity and porosity of imine-linked covalent organic frameworks (COFs). We varied the amount of benzaldehyde added during COF synthesis and found increased crystallinity and surface areas through powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and nitrogen gas adsorption measurements, respectively. The improved crystallinity and increased surface area were attributed to the reduced kinetics for COF nucleation and growth, which produced more ordered and crystalline COF materials. This work provides a simple, efficient and general way to improve the crystallinity and porosity of imine-linked COFs and furthers understanding of the role of modulators in the synthesis of COFs.
Synthesis of SimMechanics Model of Quadcopter Using SolidWorks CAD Translator Function

Currently, computer modeling is one of the most important scientific tools for investigating the behavior of complex dynamic systems. The choice of an algorithmic language depends on the simplicity of programming, the form of presentation of the simulation results, and different advantages provided by programs such as MATLAB, libraries of which include SimMechanics Visual Modeling Tool. This article discusses modern approaches to computer modeling of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), describes the integration process of SolidWorks and MATLAB/Simulink environments by implementing a CAD model, created previously in SolidWorks and exported to MATLAB/Simulink. An algorithm for modeling a dynamical model of an UAV-type quadcopter based on PID control strategies has been implemented, and a software for modeling and testing control algorithms for a UAV-type quadcopter has been performed, creating automatic navigation systems and planning the trajectories of a quadcopter UAV.
Investigating within-day and longitudinal effects of maternal stress on children's physical activity, dietary intake, and body composition: Protocol for the MATCH study

Parental stress is an understudied factor that may compromise parenting practices related to children's dietary intake, physical activity, and obesity. However, studies examining these associations have been subject to methodological limitations, including cross-sectional designs, retrospective measures, a lack of stress biomarkers, and the tendency to overlook momentary etiologic processes occurring within each day. This paper describes the recruitment, data collection, and data analytic protocols for the MATCH (Mothers And Their Children's Health) study, a longitudinal investigation using novel real-time data capture strategies to examine within-day associations of maternal stress with children's physical activity and dietary intake, and how these effects contribute to children's obesity risk. In the MATCH study, 200 mothers and their 8 to 12 year-old children are participating in 6 semi-annual assessment waves across 3 years. At each wave, measures for mother-child dyads include: (a) real-time Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) of self-reported daily psychosocial stressors (e.g., work at a job, family demands), feeling stressed, perceived stress, parenting practices, dietary intake, and physical activity with time and location stamps; (b) diurnal salivary cortisol patterns, accelerometer-monitored physical activity, and 24-hour dietary recalls; (c) retrospective questionnaires of sociodemographic, cultural, family, and neighborhood covariates; and (d) height, weight, and waist circumference. Putative within-day and longitudinal effects of maternal stress on children's dietary intake, physical activity, and body composition will be tested through multilevel modeling and latent growth curve models, respectively. The results will inform interventions that help mothers reduce the negative effects of stress on weight-related parenting practices and children's obesity risk.
‘In Clouds Unnumber’d’: Anna Letitia Barbauld’s ‘Birds and Insects’, Speculative Ecology, and the Politics of Naturalism

This chapter examines the formal features and natural-philosophical contexts of Anna Letitia Barbauld’s ecological poetry, particularly with respect to place, politics, and empirical inquiry in eighteenth-century ornithology. Analysis of Barbauld’s early poem ‘To Mrs. P[riestley], with some Drawings of Birds and Insects’ in relation to source texts by Thomas Pennant and James Thomson demonstrates her repurposing of these texts’ ornithological details to subvert their authors’ assumptions about biological and geopolitical hierarchy. Barbauld’s poem elaborates a speculative mode of ecology in which accumulation of concrete detail problematises conclusions about living creatures. Positing the environmental ubiquity of sentient life, she harnesses poetry as a richer index of the ecosphere’s geographic, taxonomic, and ethical complexities than that provided by early biological science. It is argued in conclusion that Barbauld’s broader writings unsettle the epistemic and political authority that empiricist philosophy derives from local experience, revealing her own naturalistic and civic discourses instead as rhetorical lenses that cautiously adumbrate an unknowable diversity of subjects.
Diagnostic modalities to determine ventriculoperitoneal shunt malfunction: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Background Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt malfunction is an emergency. Timely diagnosis can be challenging because shunt malfunction often presents with symptoms mimicking other common pediatric conditions. Methods We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine which commonly used imaging modalities; Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), Computed Tomography (CT), X-ray Shunt series or Optic Nerve Sheath Diameter (ONSD) ultrasound, are superior in evaluating shunt malfunction. Inclusion Criteria: patients less than 21 years old with symptoms of shunt malfunction. We calculated the pooled sensitivity, specificity, Likelihood Ratios (LR+, LR-) using a random-effects model. Results Eight studies were included encompassing 1906 patients with a prevalence of VP shunt malfunction of (29.3%). Shunt series: sensitivity (14%–53%), specificity (99%), LR+ (23.2), and LR- (0.47–0.87). CT scan: sensitivity (53%–100%), specificity (27%–98%), LR+ (1.34–22.87), LR- (0.37). MRI: sensitivity (57%), specificity (93%), LR+ (7.66), and LR- (0.49). ONSD: sensitivity (64%), specificity (22%–68%), LR+ (4.4–8.7), LR- (0.93). A positive shunt series, CT scan, MRI, or ONSD has a post-test probability of (23%–84%). A normal shunt series, CT scan, MRI, or ONSD results in a post-test probability of (7%–31%). A positive shunt series results in a post-test probability of 80%, which is equivalent to the post-test probability of CT scan (23–84%) and MRI (83%). Conclusion Despite the low sensitivity, a positive shunt series obviates the need for further imaging studies. Prompt referral for neurosurgical intervention is recommended. A negative shunt series or any result (positive or negative) from CT, MRI, or ONSD will still require an emergent neurosurgical referral.
Mice lacking global Stap1 expression do not manifest hypercholesterolemia

Autosomal dominant familial hypercholesterolemia (ADH; MIM#143890) is one of the most common monogenic disorders characterized by elevated circulatory LDL cholesterol. Initial studies in humans with ADH identified a potential relationship with variants of the gene encoding signal transducing adaptor family member protein 1 (STAP1; MIM#604298). However, subsequent studies have been contradictory. In this study, mice lacking global Stap1 expression (Stap1−/−) were characterized under standard chow and a 42% kcal western diet (WD). Mice were studied for changes in different metabolic parameters before and after a 16-week WD regime. Growth curves, body fats, circulatory lipids, parameters of glucose homeostasis, and liver architecture were studied for comparisons. Surprisingly, Stap1−/− mice fed the 16-week WD demonstrated no marked differences in any of the metabolic parameters compared to Stap1+/+ mice. Furthermore, hepatic architecture and cholesterol content in FPLC-isolated lipoprotein fractions also remained comparable to wild-type mice. These results strongly suggest that STAP1 does not alter lipid levels, that a western diet did not exacerbate a lipid disorder in Stap1 deficient mice and support the contention that it is not causative for hyperlipidemia in ADH patients. These results support other published studies also questioning the role of this locus in human hypercholesterolemia.
Telemedicine in a spine clinic setting: a large survey of patient preferences and experiences.

Background Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has greatly disturbed healthcare and the practice of neurosurgery. As healthcare systems evolve in the face of COVID-19, the use of telehealth platforms has expanded. We present the results of a large survey of patient perspectives on the role of telehealth in the care of spine clinic patients. Methods All patients at the spine clinic of a large, tertiary, academic medical center were surveyed at their clinic visit from 5/30/20-6/30/20. All responses were anonymous and results were analyzed with standard statistical techniques. Results 176 surveys were returned and 164 were entirely completed. 56.8% of patients were new while 24.4% were post-operative follow-up visits. 54.9% had lumbar symptoms. 85% had pain while more than half also reported weakness. 58% traveled greater than twenty-five miles for their appointment. 96% had transportation readily available. Of all respondents, only 15.3% preferred the appointment via video telehealth while 4% had no preference between in-person appointment or virtual visit. Preference for telehealth appointment was not associated with factors such as new or established in the practice, spinal region of symptoms, pain, weakness, comfort with technology, age or duration of symptoms. There was a significant difference between how far the patient traveled for the clinic appointment and their preference for a telehealth appointment, with patients traveling further distances favoring telehealth (p=0.04). This effect remained significant when stratifying based on 25 miles (p=0.03) or 50 miles (p=0.03) but not when stratifying based on 100 miles (p=0.32). However, the sample size of patients traveling >100 miles was small, limiting any inference regarding that subgroup. Access to transportation was associated with preference for telehealth (88.89% vs. 97.18%, p=0.08) but did not reach statistical significance. Conclusions Most spine patients prefer in-person clinic appointments to virtual appointments. These preferences should be considered when arranging patient encounters.
Antimicrobial Resistance and Livestock Trade for Low and Middle Income Countries: Regional Analysis of Global Coordination Policies

Antimicrobial resistance is a threat to global health, aggravated by the use of antimicrobials in livestock production. Mitigating the growing economic costs related to antimicrobial use in livestock production requires strong global coordination, and to that end policy makers can leverage global and national food animal trade policies, such as bans and user fees. Evaluation of such policies requires representing the interactions between competing producers in the global meat market, which is usually out of the scope of statistical models. For that, we developed a game-theoretic food system model of global livestock production and trade between 18 countries and aggregate world regions. The model comprises the largest producing and consuming countries, the explicit interconnections between countries, and the use of antimicrobials in food animal production. Our model allows us to provide policy insights beyond standard literature and assess the trade-off between trade, cost of a policy, and antimicrobials-induced productivity. We studied three scenarios: global increased user fees on antimicrobials, a global ban of meat imports from Brazil, and a decrease in China’s meat consumption. We found that a user fee that increases the price of antimicrobials by 50% globally leads to a 33% reduction in global antimicrobial use. However, participation of developing and emerging countries in the coordination scheme is jeopardized, since they become less competitive for meat sales compared to developed countries. When meat imports from Brazil are banned globally, importers of Brazil’s meat would turn primarily to the US to supplement their demand. Lastly, meeting China's medium-term lower meat consumption target would not affect global antimicrobial use, but could increase China's antimicrobial use by 11%. We highlighted the importance of trade for the outcome of a policy and concluded that global cooperation is required to align the incentives of all countries towards tackling antimicrobial resistance.
A novel local field potential-based functional approach for targeting the centromedian-parafascicular complex for deep brain stimulation.

Abstract Background The centromedian-parafascicular (Cm-Pf) complex of the thalamus is a common deep brain stimulation (DBS) target for treatment of Tourette Syndrome (TS). Currently, there are no standardized functional intraoperative neurosurgical targeting approaches. Collectively, these issues have led to variability in DBS lead placement. Therefore, more defined methods are needed to improve targeting accuracy. Objective The objective of this observational study was to develop and to verify a functional mapping task capable of differentiating the Cm-Pf region from the nearby ventral intermediate (Vim) nucleus region of the thalamus. The overarching goal was to improve the reproducibility of DBS targeting in the Cm-Pf region. Methods Seven TS patients completed a modified Go/NoGo task (five in the post-operative setting and two in the intra-operative setting). Post-operative neural signals from Cm-Pf region were collected using sensing-enabled implanted neural stimulators, and intraoperative neural signals from the Cm-Pf region were collected using an external amplifier. Event-related potential (ERP) features were identified by using the grand-average of stimulus onset signals derived from the postoperative participants. These features were correlated with anatomical locations for the specific electrode recordings. The same features were extracted from the intraoperative patients in order to verify electrode positions in the operating room environment. Results Two features – a positive and a negative deflection – were identified in the average ERP from the post-operative participants. The peak amplitudes of both features were significantly correlated with the electrode depth position (p = 0.025 for positive deflection and p = 0.039 for negative deflection). The same result was reproduced intra-operatively in the two most recent patients, where more ventral electrode contacts revealed stronger peak amplitudes in comparison to the dorsal electrode contacts. Conclusion This process was used to physiologically confirm accurate lead placement in the operating room setting. The modified Go/NoGo task elicited robust neural responses in the Cm-Pf region however the signal was not present in the Vim nucleus region of thalamus along the DBS electrode trajectory. We conclude that the differences in ERP responses may be a potentially novel LFP based functional approach for future targeting of the Cm-Pf complex for TS DBS.
A flexible simulation model for system level ESD stresses with application to ESD design and troubleshooting

A new simulation model, emphasizing integrated circuit testing applications, is proposed for contract discharge from an ESD gun, such as those used for IEC 61000-4-2 and ISO 10605 system-level ESD qualification. Waveforms from simulation are compared with the IEC-61000-4-2 waveform specification and reference waveform. An example application of the model is also presented.