cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Expanding the Scope of Replicable Unnatural DNA: Stepwise Optimization of a Predominantly Hydrophobic Base Pair

As part of an ongoing effort to expand the genetic alphabet for in vitro and eventually in vivo applications, we have synthesized a wide variety of predominantly hydrophobic unnatural base pairs exemplified by d5SICS-dMMO2 and d5SICS-dNaM. When incorporated into DNA, the latter is replicated and transcribed with greater efficiency and fidelity than the former; however, previous optimization efforts identified the para and methoxy-distal meta positions of dMMO2 as particularly promising for further optimization. Here, we report the stepwise optimization of dMMO2 via the synthesis and evaluation of 18 novel para-derivatized analogs of dMMO2, followed by further derivatization and evaluation of the most promising analogs with meta substituents. Subject to size constraints, we find that para substituents can optimize replication via both steric and electronic effects and that meta methoxy groups are unfavorable, while fluoro substituents can be beneficial or deleterious depending on the para substituent. In addition, we find that improvements in the efficiency of unnatural triphosphate insertion translate most directly into higher fidelity replication. Importantly, we identify multiple, unique base pair derivatives that when incorporated into DNA are well replicated. The most promising, d5SICS-dFEMO, is replicated under some conditions with greater efficiency and fidelity than d5SICS-dNaM. These results clearly demonstrate the generality of hydrophobic forces for the control of base pairing within DNA, provide a wealth of new SAR data, and importantly identify multiple new candidates for eventual in vivo evaluation.
An Analytic Structure for the Feasibility Analysis on the Research Infrastructure Projects for the ICT Devices and SW Globalization

The research infrastructure project for the ICT Device and SW Globalization is aimed to support and strengthen the capability of the SMEs when they are trying to enter into the global ICT core market. The purpose of this study is to construct the analytic structure of the feasibility study on this project.
Vitamins A and B in the Chinese Litchi Nut.

The Chinese hazel or litchi nut (Litchi Chinensis) has long been cultivated for medicinal and edible purposes in the Orient, and has attained a certain vogue in this country. A study of the therapeutic and food values of this fruit was made by Read, who describes the nut as “nearly globose with a dull brick-red pericarp which, when ruptured, exposes a sweet, brown, fleshy arillus surrounding a glossy chestnut-brown obicular seed ….”1 If this fleshy edible part corresponds in nutritive value to most of the fruits used in the American dietary, it should constitute a source of certain of the accessory food factors. The present study deals with the assay for vitamins A and B in the litchi nut.Young rats 25 to 30 days old, weighing 40 to 50 grams, were given the following diets:The growth of rats on the first ration was rather prolonged, lasting from 40 to 50 days before cessation. The diet was then irradiated with light from a quartz mercury vapor lamp, with the result that growth was immediately resumed for ...
Reflections on Exile

In some ways, I suppose, I have always had a fascination with exile. On the wall of my office is an Acadian flag, a reminder of some of the heritage of my own county. But what is my country? I have been struggling with that in the past few weeks. I was born in Pakistan. I came to Canada when I was four years old and became a Canadian citizen seven years later at age eleven. All of my education—kindergarten to Ph.D.—was in Canada. In 1997, after living twenty-seven years in Canada, I moved to Los Angeles and began my professorship in the Religious Studies Department at California State University, Northridge. I have lived in Los Angeles for almost seven years now— or three years longer than I lived in Lahore. Does that make me more of an Angelino than a Pakistani? Of course, I have always considered myself a Canadian, proud of my home and, er, native land. But my last name is Hussain. And I am Brown. And a Muslim. And I have a beard. And I teach about Islam. Am I a "real" Canadian? If not, who is? Perhaps ...
A comparative evaluation of viewing metaphors on psychophysical skills education in an interactive virtual environment

In an empirical evaluation, we examined the effect of viewing condition on psychophysical skills education in an interactive 3D simulation to train users in electrical circuitry. We compared an immersive head-mounted display (HMD)-based viewing metaphor versus a limited, desktop-based virtual reality (DVR) viewing metaphor with interaction using a spatial user interface. Psychophysical skills education involves the association of cognitive functions with motor functions to make the task autonomous with repeated practice. In electrical circuitry, this is demonstrated by the fine movements involved in handling and manipulating components on the electrical circuit, particularly while measuring electrical parameters. We created an interactive circuitry simulation (IBAS) where participants could learn about electrical measurement instruments such as the ammeter, voltmeter and multimeter, in a simulated breadboard VR system. Twenty-four participants utilized the simulation (12 in each condition), and the quantitative and qualitative aspects of psychophysical skills education with respect to the viewing metaphor were examined. Each viewing condition in IBAS was head-tracked and non-stereoscopic. Perspective correction was coupled with head-tracking in the DVR condition. The key quantitative measures were cognitive questionnaires addressing different levels of Bloom's cognitive taxonomy and a real-world psychophysical task addressing various levels of Dave's psychomotor taxonomy. The qualitative measures were the Witmer---Singer sense of presence questionnaire and self-report. Results suggest that there was a significant increase in cognition post-experiment in both DVR and HMD viewing conditions in levels of knowledge, application, analysis and evaluation. Results also revealed a significant learning benefit with respect to the higher level concepts pertaining to evaluation in the HMD condition as compared to DVR. Participants seem to have enjoyed a greater level of affordance in task performance and spent a larger amount of time to complete the simulated exercises as well as manually maneuvered to further distances in the HMD viewing condition as compared to DVR viewing.
The recent outbreaks and reemergence of poliovirus in war and conflict-affected areas

Summary Background Poliomyelitis is a highly infectious disease caused by poliovirus, which becomes difficult to manage/eradicate in politically unstable areas. The objectives of this study were to determine the movement and management of such polio outbreaks in endemic countries and countries with reoccurring cases of polio and to determine the effect of political instability on polio eradication. Methods In this study, the extent of polio outbreaks was examined and modeled using statistical methodologies and mapped with GIS software. Data on polio cases and immunization were collected for countries with polio cases for the period 2011 to 2014. Weekly data from the Global Polio Eradication Initiative were collected for selected countries. The recent virus origin and current movement was mapped using GIS. Correlations between immunization rates, the Global Peace Index (GPI), and other indicators of a country's political stability with polio outbreaks were determined. Data were analyzed using SAS 9.4 and ArcGIS 10. Results For several reasons, Pakistan remains highly vulnerable to new incidences of polio (306 cases in 2014). Overall immunization rates showed a steady decline over time in selected countries. Countries with polio cases were shown to have high rates of infant mortality, and their GPI ranked between 2.0 and 3.3; displaced populations, level of violent crime rating, and political instability also were ranked high for several countries. Conclusion Polio was shown to be high in areas with increased conflict and instability. Displaced populations living in hard-to-reach areas may lack access to proper vaccination and health care. Wars and conflict have also resulted in the reemergence of polio in otherwise polio-free countries.
Management of chronic nonmalignant pain: a needs assessment in an internal medicine resident continuity clinic.

Introduction: The authors hypothesized that Internal Medicine (IM) residents experience a lack of preparation, confidence, and reward when managing patients with chronic nonmalignant pain (CNMP) in their continuity clinic and that they exhibit deficiencies in CNMP management practices, particularly when opioids are prescribed. Methods: As part of a quality improvement project in the IM resident continuity clinic, the authors performed a needs assessment through a self-administered resident questionnaire and a retrospective chart review. Results: Fifty-seven percent of respondents rated their CNMP preparation as “fair” or “poor,” 89 percent reported that their experience was “much less” or “somewhat less” rewarding than managing patients with other chronic conditions, and 58 percent reported that CNMP management “negatively” or “very negatively” affected their view of primary care as a career. Twenty-eight charts of patients receiving opioids during a 1-year study period were reviewed. Although residents were likely to document pain diagnoses (93 percent) and pain scores (82 percent) as well as utilize medication agreements (82 percent), they were less likely to document illicit substance use (39 percent), document legal history (32 percent), or obtain prior medical records (39 percent). Few urine drug screens were ordered (18 percent) and 25 percent of patients had fewer than four face-to-face visits during the year. Discussion: The questionnaire indicated that IM residents lack preparation in managing CNMP, which results in lack of confidence and reward. The chart review revealed management practice deficiencies in risk assessment and prescription drug misuse monitoring. As a result, the authors have implemented curricular interventions, integrated a pain clinic within the continuity clinic, optimized residency program clinic scheduling, and developed tools for consistency in management practices.
Group Theoretical Examination of the Far Infrared Spectra of Tm2 (SO4)3 • 8 H2O and TmCl3 • 6 H2O

In 1972 the far infrared spectra of hydrated tripositive thulium sulfate and chloride were presented without analysis (1,2). The work was done to observe the spectra directly and support the validity of vibrational assignments made on the basis of vibronic spectra of these crystals observed in the visible region.
Fracture Mechanics 1975 — An Overview

Catastrophic and unexpected failures, and the need to analyze them in order to prevent future occurrences, were the principal stimuli to the development of Fracture Mechanics. The two original papers [1,2] resulted from strong technological motivation coupled with the desire to apply the latest analytical solutions of the stress distribution near cracks, corners, or slits. The first one is a little known paper by K. Wieghardt [1] who published an extensive paper entitled “On the Clevage and Fracture of Elastic Bodies” in the Zeitschrift fur Mathematik und Physik in 1907. He correctly derives the 1/√r singularity at the crack tip or corner, Figure 1, but does not attempt to answer the question of the force required to cause fracture, “...the common strength hypotheses would predict fracture at extremely low forces, which is, in fact, not the case”. Rather, he treats the problem of the direction of crack propagation. He concludes that experimental results of tests on a specimen designed by Bach to simulate the behavior of “U” shaped supports, Figure 2, and theoretical results agree for a maximum normal stress failure criterion [3].
Rock’n’Film: Cinema’s Dance with Popular Music

Rock’n’Film: Cinema’s Dance with Popular Music is a considerable history of a 20-odd-year period of British and American film’s exploitation of (among other things) rock-and-roll music, from its us...
The praxis of rhetorical attitudinizing: productive criticism as civic engagement

Robert L. Ivie, “Productive Criticism,” Quarterly Journal of Speech 81, no. 1 (1995)For more than 20 years, I have volunteered with people living perilous lives. I have worked in domestic violence ...
Utilizing an interpersonal communication framework to understand information behaviors involved in HIV disclosure

An interpersonal communication conceptual diagram of HIV disclosure is proposed.Examining antecedents of disclosure using interpersonal communication theories.Adding medicating mechanisms uncertainty and information behaviors to disclosure process.Proposing mediating effects of information management to HIV disclosure process. Psychological factors have been widely used in existing empirical studies to understand individuals decisions regarding HIV disclosure. However, limited studies have examined disclosure by applying a comprehensive interpersonal communication framework to understand information behaviors relevant to disclosing one's HIV status, including seeking information and sharing information. Thus the mediating role of information flow and its relationship with disclosure uncertainty for those living with HIV have been largely overlooked. We propose an integrated conceptual framework to connect the antecedent factors of disclosure decision-making, the potential route of the disclosure process, and the consequences of disclosure through integrating components from key interpersonal communication theories including the theory of communication privacy management and social influence theory and adding mediating mechanisms of uncertainty and information behaviors. Applying interpersonal communication theory and a comprehensive information management model to HIV disclosure may offer novel opportunities to support individuals living with HIV through the development of theory-based disclosure interventions to facilitate this complicated but critical process.
Two Thumbs Up: The Media Are the Message

This account is a commentary on efforts to incorporate a "creative" project into a graduate-level public management course. Students must complete an "Images of the Public Sector" project for which they review, reflect on, and analyze the effect of specific media images of the public sector on public perceptions. The students select the images from books, music, television, motion pictures, or other art or literary form.
Profibrotic Infrapatellar Fat Pad Remodeling Without M1 Macrophage Polarization Precedes Knee Osteoarthritis in Mice With Diet-Induced Obesity.

Objective To test the hypothesis that high-fat (HF) diet–induced obesity increases proinflammatory cytokine expression, macrophage infiltration, and M1 polarization in the infrapatellar fat pad (IFP) prior to knee cartilage degeneration. Methods We characterized the effect of HF feeding on knee OA pathology, body adiposity, and glucose intolerance in male C57BL/6J mice and identified a diet duration that induces metabolic dysfunction prior to cartilage degeneration. Magnetic resonance imaging and histomorphology were used to quantify changes in the epididymal, subcutaneous, and infrapatellar fat pads and in adipocyte sizes. Finally, we used targeted gene expression and protein arrays, immunohistochemistry, and flow cytometry to quantify differences in fat pad markers of inflammation and immune cell populations. Results Twenty weeks of feeding with an HF diet induced marked obesity, glucose intolerance, and early osteoarthritis (OA), including osteophytes and cartilage tidemark duplication. This duration of HF feeding increased the IFP volume. However, it did not increase IFP inflammation, macrophage infiltration, or M1 macrophage polarization as observed in epididymal fat. Furthermore, leptin protein levels were reduced. This protection from obesity-induced inflammation corresponded to increased IFP fibrosis and the absence of adipocyte hypertrophy. Conclusion The IFP does not recapitulate classic abdominal adipose tissue inflammation during the early stages of knee OA in an HF diet–induced model of obesity. Consequently, these findings do not support the hypothesis that IFP inflammation is an initiating factor of obesity-induced knee OA. Furthermore, the profibrotic and antihypertrophic responses of IFP adipocytes to HF feeding suggest that intraarticular adipocytes are subject to distinct spatiotemporal structural and metabolic regulation among fat pads.
Zero-sum turret defense differential game with singular surfaces

We examine a two-player, zero-sum, differential turret defense game, which consists of two players, a mobile Attacker and a stationary Defender. The Attacker is modeled as a mobile agent moving with a constant speed about a infinite, two-dimensional plane, and it is capable of making instantaneous changes in direction. The Defender is modeled as a stationary target located at the origin, and it is capable of steering a direction of focus toward the Attacker. The game terminates when the Attacker intercepts the Defender. Over the course of the game, the Attacker incurs an integral cost. The cost functional consists of a constant time penalty and a Defender generated cost based on the relative agents positions. The goal of the Attacker is to terminate the game with minimal cost, while the Defender strives to maximize the Attacker's cost. We show that the global equilibrium solution contains three singular surfaces that divide the state space into regions with qualitatively different equilibrium control strategies for the two players.
Abstract 16074: Modeling a Novel Hypothetical Use of Postal Collection Boxes as Automated External Defibrillator Access Points

Introduction: Optimizing placement of Automated External Defibrillators (AED) can increase the chances of survival during an Out of Hospital Cardiac Arrest (OHCA). Using Postal Collection Boxes (PCB) as locations for AEDs could potentially enhance accessibility and streamline maintenance, although the impact of using these locations on OHCA bystander response times is not known. In the present study, we sought to investigate this AED location strategy with a map-based simulation approach. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that using PCBs for placement of public AEDs would decrease distance traveled to an OHCA compared to current public AED locations and that combining both locations would further decrease this distance. We also hypothesized that AEDs at PCBs would lead to an increase in AED coverage area. Methods: OHCAs locations between 2009-2014 were obtained from the Pittsburgh Site of the Resuscitation Outcome Consortium (n=2912). AED locations were collected from the HeartMap Challenge and the Pittsburgh Pulse Program (n=531). PCB locations were obtained from the United States Postal Service and geocoded (n=496) to latitude/longitude coordinates. Spatial analysis was conducted using Quantum GIS (QGIS). Linear distance from each OHCA to the nearest current AED, nearest PCB and nearest of either was calculated and converted into feet using MMQGIS. Average distance was compared between each method to determine whether current locations, PCBs, or the combination of the two offered a superior overall location strategy. AED coverage area was assessed as the proportion of census tracts that had an AED for each method. Results: Mean distance was 1449.22 feet (Median=1165.88 feet) from OHCA to nearest AED; 1168.05 feet (Median=747.48 feet) to the nearest PCB equipped with an AED, and 884.88 feet (Median=606.11 feet) the nearest AED or PCB. Of all OHCAs, 53.6% experienced a decrease in distance from an AED using PCBs as AED locations. AED coverage increased from 68.6% of all census tracts containing AEDS to 94.8% with the addition of PCBs. Conclusion: Overall distance decreases when using PCB as a possible source for an AED along with current locations. AED coverage increases when AEDs are located at PCBs.
Work Efficiency and Motivation

Work efficiency and motivation have been prime subjects in management studies for over a century. Organizations want to increase both. Employees seek equity, fulfillment, and satisfaction. Their perspectives merge as organizations recognize they need employees who are motivated and efficient, challenged but not stressed to the point of making errors or bad judgments in times of accelerated change. Respecting diversity, planning, and goal-setting are keys to managerial success.
Rural Health Disparities: The Political Economy

Disparate health outcomes among persons who reside in rural areas, irrespective of culture, religion or racial and ethnic composition, has been reported elsewhere, and rather abundantly in the scientific literature (Hartley 2004; Crosby, 2012). Geographical variations instigate excess morbidity and mortality in rural areas and is a phenomenality salient in both international and national settings. Hence, the need to conjure up a theoretical foundation is imminent, to identify underlying causes for persistent health disparities in this region.
Risk Factors for Thirty-Day Morbidity and Mortality in Extradural Lumbar Spine Tumor Resection.

Background Epidural tumors in the lumbar spine represent a unique cohort of lesions with individual risks and challenges to resection. Knowledge of modifiable risk factors are important in minimizing postoperative complications. Objective To determine the risk factors for 30-day morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing extradural lumbar tumor resection. Methods A retrospective study of prospectively collected data using the American College of Surgeons National Quality Improvement Program database was performed. Adults who underwent laminectomy for excision of lumbar spine tumors between 2011 and 2014 were included in the study. Demographics and medical comorbidities were collected, along with morbidities and mortalities within 30 postoperative days. A multivariate binary logistic analysis of these clinical variables was performed to determine covariates of morbidity and mortality. Results The database search yielded 300 patients, of whom 118 (39.3%) were female. Overall, complications within 30 days of surgery occurred in 102 (34%) patients. Significant risk factors for morbidity included preoperative anemia (P 4 hours (P 4 hours (odds ratio 2.6, 95% confidence interval 1.1–6.0). Conclusions Excision of epidural lumbar spinal tumors carries a relatively high complication rate. This series reveals distinct risk factors that contribute to 30-day morbidity and mortality, which may be optimized preoperatively to improve surgical safety.
Designing SADD: A Social Media Agent for the Detection of the Deceased

As the number of profiles and user generated content online continues to grow, many accounts in time will inevitably belong to those that are deceased. Questions arise as what to do with content on these profiles when it becomes known that the owner of the profile has died. Additionally, many users have several profiles spread across various social networking sites. This project describes our efforts to create SADD - A Social Media Agent for the Detection of the Deceased. This tool aims to systematically identify social media accounts that may belong to a deceased user based on related posts from other users as well as changes in profile interaction. As part of this project, we present a basic framework and prototype for the program and include survey results about the perception of this type of tool which examine how users may wish to preserve online content. This project is a continuation of previous research related to virtual memorialization of web based and virtual world content and interaction.
Time-reversal noninvariance and the decay Σ+ → p + γ

The introduction of an elementary electric-dipole moment interaction into the structure of weak interactions has previously been shown capable of accounting for the K20→2π decay and of leading to nucleon electric-dipole moments ∼10−20 cm·c, almost as large as the present experimental upper limit on the neutron electric dipole. It is shown here that the same interaction should contribute substantially to the Σ+ → p + γ decay amplitude, and is probably consistent with the restriction imposed on the amplitude by the experimental rate for this process. It is also shown that the unitarity contribution to this amplitude, which is due almost entirely to the decay mode Σ+ → π +N, and which simulates the effect of the elementaryT-noninvariant interaction, is substantial and will have to be included in any realistic analysis of the process.
Mineral status of California beef cattle

Optimal mineral nutrition is required for cattle reproduction, immune function, and structural development. Formal evaluation of the current mineral status of California beef cattle is currently lacking. In 2017, a survey was initiated that evaluated a panel of 10 different minerals in 14 counties across California. Samples were collected from 555 cattle at 50 different ranches. Region of the state significantly affected herd mineral status. Herd use of supplements was also significant, and increased most blood levels of the mineral(s) targeted for supplementation. Forage source was idiosyncratic on its effect of mineral status. Previous blood survey data showed selenium to be widely deficient in California cattle in the 1970s and 1980s, but in this case, it was generally adequate in all areas of California. This indicates a good producer understanding of where supplementation is needed. Copper deficiency was more widespread in the southern region when compared with further north. Zinc deficiency was seen ubiquitously statewide, with 36% of animals being deficient. Manganese has been largely ignored in California. This study is the first known documentation of manganese levels in the state. Sampling found 92% of cattle fell below critical manganese levels. However, further research to better define manganese critical levels is probably warranted. The status of other minerals is presented.
Examining raphe-amygdala structural connectivity as a biological predictor of SSRI response

Abstract Background Our lab has previously found that structural integrity in tracts from the raphe nucleus (RN) to the amygdala, measured by fractional anisotropy (FA), predicts remission to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in major depressive disorder (MDD). This could potentially serve as a biomarker for remission that can guide clinical decision-making. To enhance repeatability and reproducibility, we replicated our study in a larger, more representative multi-site sample. Methods 64 direction DTI was collected in 144 medication-free patients with MDD from the Establishing Moderators and Biosignatures of Antidepressant Response for Clinical Care (EMBARC) study. We performed probabilistic tractography between the RN and bilateral amygdala and hippocampus and calculated weighted FA in these tracts. Patients were treated with either sertraline or placebo, and their change in Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) score reported. Pretreatment weighted FA was compared between remitters and nonremitters, and correlation between FA and percent change in HDRS score was assessed. Exploratory moderator and voxel analyses were also performed. Results Contrary to our hypotheses, FA was greater in nonremitters than in remitters in RN-left and right amygdala tracts (p = 0.02 and 0.01, respectively). Pretreatment FA between the raphe and left amygdala correlated with greater, not reduced, HDRS (r = 0.18, p = 0.04). This finding was found to be greater in the placebo group. Moderator and voxel analyses yielded no significant findings. Conclusions We found greater FA in nonremitters between the RN and amygdala than in remitters, and a correlation between FA and symptom worsening, particularly with placebo. These findings may help reveal more about the nature of MDD, as well as guide research methods involving placebo response.
The performance of explicitly correlated wavefunctions [CCSD(T)-F12b] in the computation of anharmonic vibrational frequencies

Abstract CCSD(T)-F12b/cc-pVTZ-F12 anharmonic vibrational frequencies match experiment or higher-level theory to within an average of 10.3 cm−1 for a sample set of 11 molecules. This is further reduced below 7.0 cm−1 when extreme differences are removed from the data set. CCSD(T)-F12b/cc-pVTZ-F12 and CCSD(T)-F12b/cc-pVDZ-F12 frequencies differ on average by 4.8 cm−1. The CCSD(T)-F12b frequencies require orders of magnitude less computer time than higher-order theory and cc-pVDZ-F12 less than cc-pVTZ-F12, especially as the number of atoms increases. Hence, utilization of these levels of theory may provide accurate vibrational frequencies for larger molecules provided that the core-electron correlation is not significant.
Phase-shifting interferometry in fiber-based channeled spectropolarimetry

Channeled spectropolarimetry measures the spectral dependence of the polarization states of light. This technique is marked by its snapshot feature, in that the complete polarization states can be determined simultaneously from a single intensity spectrum. However, without athermalization, it suffers from high sensitivity to temperature, which in turn, degrades the polarimetric reconstruction accuracy. In this paper, we present a calibration technique for a fiber-based channeled spectropolarimetry that leverages phase-shifting interferometry to accurately demodulate the retarders' phase, thereby improving the accuracy of the acquired Stokes parameters. Additionally, it enables robust spectropolarimetric performance that is insensitive to environmental perturbations. Experimental results demonstrate that calibrations using phase-shifting interferometry improve the Stokes reconstruction results by approximately a factor of 3 when compared to the reference beam calibration method.
Employment Law: Coach-on-Athlete Abuse

Devarus Robinson was a player on the Kathleen High School football team in Lakeland, FL. While on the team, Robinson was constantly subjected to bullying and physical abuse by the school's head foo...
To break a habit, timing's everything.

When angry, we are often advised to ‘hold your breath and count to ten’ to prevent a rash response. Could a similar time conflict underlie the expression of unwanted habits? A new study in Nature Human Behaviour shows that habits can be provoked with greater time pressure, but are overridden if an individual is given sufficient time to prepare.
The implementation of the Handicapping Labio-Lingual Deviation index on access to orthodontic care.

OBJECTIVES In 2017, the state of Illinois changed the system by which they define severe malocclusion from the DentaQuest Orthodontic Criteria Index to the Handicapping Labio-Lingual Deviation Index (HLD). The purpose of this study was to compare subjects who were submitted for coverage under either the DentaQuest Orthodontic Criteria Index or the HLD index to see if a difference exists in the number of subjects who received coverage and the type of malocclusions that were covered. METHODS All subjects evaluated for orthodontic coverage by the Illinois Department of Human Services for treatment at the University of Illinois, College of Dentistry during the years 2016 and 2017 were included in this study. One hundred consecutively approved and 100 consecutively denied subjects from both 2016 and 2017 were selected for further analysis. RESULTS There was a statistically significant decrease in the overall rate of approval in 2017 compared to 2016. No difference was found in the approval rate of Class I, II, or III subjects, but there was a significant decrease in the approval rate of subjects with impacted teeth. CONCLUSIONS The implementation of the HLD index has significantly decreased access to orthodontic care for Medicaid patients in Illinois.
Correction to: Desirable and undesirable difficulties: Influences of variability, training schedule, and aptitude on nonnative phonetic learning.

Adult listeners often struggle to learn to distinguish speech sounds not present in their native language. High-variability training sets (i.e., stimuli produced by multiple talkers or stimuli that occur in diverse phonological contexts) often result in better retention of the learned information, as well as increased generalization to new instances. However, high-variability training is also more challenging, and not every listener can take advantage of this kind of training. An open question is how variability should be introduced to the learner in order to capitalize on the benefits of such training without derailing the training process. The current study manipulated phonological variability as native English speakers learned a difficult nonnative (Hindi) contrast by presenting the nonnative contrast in the context of two different vowels (/i/ and /u/). In a between-subjects design, variability was manipulated during training and during test. Participants were trained in the evening hours and returned the next morning for reassessment to test for retention of the speech sounds. We found that blocked training was superior to interleaved training for both learning and retention, but for learners in the interleaved training group, higher pretraining aptitude predicted better identification performance. Further, pretraining discrimination aptitude positively predicted changes in phonetic discrimination after a period of off-line consolidation, regardless of the training manipulation. These findings add to a growing literature suggesting that variability may come at a cost in phonetic learning and that aptitude can affect both learning and retention of nonnative speech sounds.
'Wh'-Scope Marking in Japanese: Evidence for the Indirect-Dependency Approach

The goal of this squib is to tease apart two competing approaches to wh-scope marking, the direct-dependency approach and the indirect-dependency approach, by introducing Japanese wh-scope marking. The two approaches make different predictions regarding the type of the embedded clause in wh-scope-marking constructions. The embedded clause is regarded as declarative under the direct-dependency approach but as interrogative under the indirect-dependency approach. What is especially interesting in this respect is that Japanese wh-scope marking requires the embedded clause to be marked by the interrogative complementizer ka. Japanese wh-scope marking thus provides clear morphological evidence for the indirect-dependency approach.
Loch Ness Monsters as cryptid (presently unknown) sea turtles

The most popular attribution of identity for Loch Ness Monsters is a relationship with the extinct plesiosaurs, but this is difficult to square with the rarity of surface sightings let alone occasional sightings on land. On the other hand, everything described for Loch Ness Monsters is known among the many species of living as well as thought-to-be extinct turtles: air-breathing but spending very long periods in deep water; ventures onto land; very fast movement in water; ability to be active in very cold water; relatively long necks. It is suggested that Loch Ness Monsters, Nessies, are a yet-to be properly discovered and described variety of large sea turtle that is most likely also still extant in some specific niches in the oceans.
Machine learning enabled damage classification in composite laminated beams using mode conversion quantification

We propose a model assisted method to identify damage types and severity based on mode converted wave strength. Machine learning techniques are employed to develop classification models complemented by the finite element simulation models. Finite element simulation models provide the training data for various cases of damage and severity involving common types of damages in composites. Damage classification models are based on mode conversion strength versus frequency curves of participating four wave modes. For damage recognition and classification, a multi-layer Convoluted Neural Network (CNN) has been trained using the back-propagation paradigm on the generated dataset.
Using the American College of Radiology Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System at the Point of Care: Sonographer Performance and Interobserver Variability.

Abstract The purpose of this study was to assess inter-observer variability and performance when sonographers assign features to thyroid nodules on ultrasound using the American College of Radiology (ACR) Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (TI-RADS). Fifteen sonographers retrospectively evaluated 100 thyroid nodules and assigned features to each nodule according to ACR TI-RADS lexicon. Ratings were compared with one another and to a gold standard using Fleiss’ and Cohen's kappa statistics, respectively. Sonographers were also asked subjective questions regarding their comfort level assessing each feature, and opinions were compared with performance using a mixed effects model. Sonographers demonstrated only slight agreement for margin (κ = 0.18, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.16–0.20) and large comet tail artifact (κ = 0.08, 95% CI: 0.06–0.10) but better performance for macrocalcification (κ = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.39–0.43) and no echogenic foci (κ = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.50–0.54). Sonographer comfort level with different feature assignments did not statistically correlate with performance for a given feature. In conclusion, sonographers using ACR TI-RADS to assign thyroid nodule features on ultrasound demonstrate a range of agreement across features, with margin and large comet tail artifact showing the most variability. These results highlight potential areas of focus for sonographer education efforts as ACR TI-RADS continues to be implemented in radiology departments.
A conversation with Tempestt Neal: continuous authentication methods for mobile platforms

Ubiquity's senior editor Dr. Bushra Anjum chats with Dr. Tempestt Neal to discuss her work to improve access control on mobile devices, specifically developing continuous authentication methods.
Salvage Therapy With Multikinase Inhibitors and Immunotherapy in Advanced Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma.

Background Median overall survival is 12 to 15 months in patients with metastatic adrenal cortical carcinoma (ACC). Etoposide, doxorubicin, and cisplatin with or without the adrenolytic agent mitotane is considered the best first-line approach in this context, but has limited activity and no curative potential; additional salvage therapeutic options are needed. Methods Fifteen total patients with recurrent/metastatic ACC were treated with single-agent multikinase inhibitors (MKI) (n = 8), single-agent PD-1 inhibition (n = 8), or cytotoxic chemotherapy plus PD-1 inhibition (n = 4) at our institution as later-line systemic therapies in efforts to palliate disease and attempt to achieve a therapeutic response when not otherwise possible using standard approaches. Results Two of 8 patients (25%) treated with single-agent MKI achieved a partial response (PR), including 1 PR lasting 23.5 months. Another 3 patients (38%) had stable disease (SD); median progression-free survival (PFS) with single-agent MKI was 6.4 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.8-not reached). On the other hand, 2 of 12 patients (17%) treated with PD-1 inhibitors (either alone or in combination with cytotoxic chemotherapy) attained SD or better, with 1 patient (8%) achieving a PR; median PFS was 1.4 months (95% CI 0.6-2.7). Conclusions Our single-institution experience suggests that select ACC patients respond to late-line MKI or checkpoint inhibition despite resistance to cytotoxic agents. These treatments may be attractive to ACC patients with limited other therapeutic options. The use of MKI and immunotherapy in ACC warrants prospective investigation emphasizing parallel correlative studies to identify biomarkers that predict for response.
Design of a reliable power delivery network for monolithic 3D ICs

As Moore’s law hits physical limits, monolithic 3D (M3D) integration based on fine-grained monolithic inter-tier vias is emerging as a promising technique to continue performance, power, and area improvements. However, the design of a reliable power delivery network (PDN) for M3D integrated circuits (ICs) is a formidable challenge due to higher power and current densities. In addition, compared to traditional designs, interconnects in M3D designs are more susceptible to electromigration and stress migration. Yield loss resulting from the power-supply noise (PSN) in functional and testing mode is also a major concern for M3D ICs. In this paper, we describe recent research efforts that provide solutions to mitigate these reliability concerns in M3D ICs.
Cytologic studies of in vivo fallopian tube specimens in patients undergoing salpingo-oophorectomy

Objectives Recent research shows that most high grade ovarian cancer (OC) originates from the fallopian tube (FT). Cytologic evaluation of FT cells may enable early detection of OC. Material and methods This was a prospective study with patients enrolled from 3 centers (October 2016- August 2017). Forty-two women undergoing salpingo-oophorectomy for a pelvic mass suspicious for malignancy or undergoing risk-reducing surgery for BRCA mutations were included in the study. At the time of scheduled surgery, a novel catheter was used to collect FT cells through hysteroscopy. A pathologist blinded to surgical or pathologic findings evaluated FT cytology, and results were compared to pathology. Results Of the 61 samples collected, 72% (44/61) met the adequacy criteria (≥5 clusters of cells with 20 cells in each cluster). Cytology classification criteria were established and applied to adequate samples. Forty-four samples were benign with mixed population of cells with round, oval, and spindled nuclei; 2-dimensional clusters; columnar cell configuration; flat sheets; cilia presence; no/mild nuclear pleomorphism; no nuclear membrane irregularities; and no nucleoli. Five samples had benign features with reactive nuclear and cytoplasmic changes and/or background inflammation, which were categorized as "reactive atypia." Two malignant samples had features of 3-dimensional (3D) clusters, loss of mixed population of cells; increased nuclear/cytoplasmic ratio; nuclear membrane irregularity and nucleoli presence. Three samples with some but not all of malignant features were categorized as "neoplastic" (anisonucleosis; small nucleoli and features suggestive of 3D clusters). Malignant/ neoplastic samples were labeled as "Positive" (n = 5) while benign/reactive samples were labeled as "Negative" (n = 39). A high concordance rate (95%, 42/44) was observed between cytology results and histology. Conclusions We characterized cytologic features for pathologically distinct FT samples collected in vivo using a novel catheter and demonstrated its value in detecting OC.
Patient Use of Low-Cost Digital Videoscopes and Smartphones for Remote Ear and Oropharyngeal Examinations.

Importance During the novel coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, telehealth has become a vital component of health care delivery. For otolaryngology evaluations, examination of the ear and oropharynx is important but difficult to achieve remotely. Objective To assess the feasibility of patient use of low-cost digital videoscopes and smartphones for examination of the ear and oropharynx. Design, Setting, and Participants A prospective quality improvement study was conducted in an academic adult otolaryngology clinic including 23 patients who presented for an in-person appointment and owned a smartphone device. The study was conducted from July 1 to 15, 2020. Interventions Participants were asked to capture pictures and videos of their ear canals and oropharynx with digital videoscopes and their smartphones under real-time guidance over a telehealth platform. They were then surveyed about their experience. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcomes were ratings by health care clinicians and a blinded otolaryngologist reviewer of image acceptability. Secondary outcomes included participant time to image acquisition and willingness to purchase digital videoscopes for telehealth use. Results Of the 23 participants included, 14 were women (61%); mean age was 50 years (range, 21 to 80 years). Of the images obtained using the digital otoscope ear examination, 95% were considered acceptable by the health care clinicians and 91% were considered acceptable by the blinded reviewer; 16 participants (70%) reported that the otoscope was easy to use. The mean time to acquire images for both ears was 114 seconds (95% CI, 84-145 seconds). Twenty-one participants (91%) were willing to pay for a digital otoscope for telehealth use. For the oropharyngeal examination, a greater proportion of smartphone video examinations were considered acceptable by clinicians (63% acceptability) and the blinded reviewer (55%) compared with the digital endoscope (clinicians, 40%; blinded reviewer, 14%). The mean time required for the oropharyngeal examination smartphone video capture was shorter at 35 seconds compared with both the digital endoscope (difference, −27 seconds; 95% CI, −7 to −47 seconds) and smartphone photo capture (difference, −53 seconds; 95% CI, −20 to −87 seconds). Conclusions and Relevance Digital otoscopes and smartphones apparently can facilitate remote head and neck physical examination in telehealth. Digital otoscopes were useful for ear examinations, and smartphone videos appeared to be the most useful for oropharyngeal examinations. Further studies are required to determine specific diagnostic capabilities in various telehealth practice settings.
A composite metric for predicting benefit from spironolactone in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.

Aims The TOPCAT trial showed no benefit for spironolactone in heart failure patients with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Post-hoc, spironolactone helped participants from the Americas, but not Eastern Europe. Determining which patients with HFpEF could respond like TOPCAT's responders should help guide their care. We aimed to develop a TOPCAT Trial Score (TS) as a composite metric to identify such patients. Methods and results From the TOPCAT individual-level data, we calculated a TS of age, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, heart rate, creatinine, potassium, glucose, left ventricular ejection fraction, and left atrial volume for each participant as a weighted distance in multidimensional space from the theoretical perfectly average Americas participant. Logistic regression was used to measure TS and spironolactone as predictors of TOPCAT's primary outcome. The relationship between TS and the H2 FPEF score was also determined in TOPCAT and a registry cohort of real-world patients in the U.S. with HFpEF. A bimodal distribution of TS separated American (n = 1766) and Eastern European (n = 1,677) participants. Those with lower TS showed no significant response to spironolactone. Spironolactone's benefit rose with rising TS [βinteraction = -0.28 (P 1.14), in addition to higher likelihood of HFpEF based on higher H2 FPEF scores (≥3). The cohort of real-world patients with HFpEF had even higher TS than American TOPCAT participants. Conclusions Patients with HFpEF can be quantified by the TS to capture the likelihood of benefit from spironolactone.
Hypersequent Calculus for Intuitionistic Logic with Classical Atoms

We introduce a hypersequent calculus for intuitionistic logic with classical atoms, i.e. intuitionistic logic augmented with a special class of propositional variables for which we postulate the decidability property. This system combines classical logical reasoning with constructive and computationally oriented intuitionistic logic in one system. Our main result is the cut-elimination theorem with the subformula property for this system. We show this by a semantic method, namely via proving the completeness theorem of the hypersequent calculus without the cut rule. The cut-elimination theorem gives a semantic completeness of the system, decidability, and some form of the disjunction property.