cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Do I Buy It? How AIDET™ Training Changes Residents' Values about Patient Care:

ObjectivesAcquiring communication and interpersonal skills is an important part of providing patient-centered care and improving patient satisfaction. This study explores whether residents' own values about patient communication can be influenced by training.MethodsAs part of service excellence, a three-hour communication skills training in AIDET™ (Acknowledge, Introduce, Duration, Explanation, Thank You) was delivered to first and second Post-Graduate Year (PGY) residents (n = 123). A survey was designed to measure the value of patient communication and administered pre/post communication skills training.ResultsResidents' scores about communication values improved significantly for all areas pre- to post-training for patient communication skills (p<0.04). After training, there was little difference by medical specialty, other than surgical specialties, which showed the greatest increase in valuing requesting permission (p=0.034). Gender was also not associated with differences in values, except men showe...
Choices of Being Exposed to the News, Needs of the Consumer Exposed to the News Programs, Assessment of the Quality of the News Broadcasted on Digital Television from the Consumer in Bangkok, Thailand

This research has the purpose of studying the choices of receiving news. The needs of the consumer who is exposed to receiving the news and the study on assessment of the quality of the news, broadcasted on the digital television in Thailand. With the purpose of studying the level of respond of being exposed to news programs, the needs of the consumer who is exposed to receive the news and the study on assessment of the quality of the news, broadcasted on the digital television. And to find the relations between the choices of being exposed to the news programs, the needs of the consumer exposed to the news and the assessment of quality of the news, broadcasted on digital television in Thailand. The model group in this research consisted of 400 TV news channels watchers who watch more than 4 commercial channels per day which are broadcasted on digital TV in Bangkok, Thailand. It is found that the level of respond being exposed to news programs is at a high level. The level of needs of the consumer exposed to the news is at a high level. Assessment on the quality of news is also at a high level. It is also found that the level of the relation between the selection of news programs and the needs of the consumer is at a high level, having the correlation efficiency at .796 and the relation level between the needs of the consumer exposed to news and the assessment on the quality of news, is also at a high level of correlation efficiency at .717.
Characters of PTGMS Line 360S

The characters of photo-thermo-sensitive genic male sterile (PTGMS) line 360S under different seeding dates were studied. The result showed that its characteristics were of low critical sterility-inducing temperature, high percentage of exerted stigmata, good flowering habits and good sensitivity to 920. The PTGMS line 360S has 65～72 days of growth duration from seeding to initial heading and 11.8~12.7 leaves of its main culm.
Mathews’ Diagram and Euclid’s Line: Fifty Years Ago

Making the science and technology of computer music comprehensible to musicians and composers who had little or no background therein was a part of Max Mathews’ genius. In this presentation I will show how a simple diagram led to the essential understanding of Claude Shannon’s sampling theorem, which in turn opened up a conceptual path to composing music for loudspeakers that had nothing to do with wires, cables and electronic devices, but led to learning how to program a computer—to write code. The change from device-determined output (analog) to program-determined output (digital) was a major change in paradigm that led to my realization of an integral sound spatialization system that would have been impossible for me to achieve in any other medium. Along the way, the discovery of FM Synthesis provided not only a means of creating diverse spectra but coupled with a ratio from Euclid’s Elements produced an unusual and productive connection between spectral space and pitch space and a path that leads ...?
Microprocessor Controlled Instrument for Tongue-Palate Contact Measurement During Speech

Publisher Summary This chapter describes an instrument, called a palatometer, designed for use in a research laboratory where data from it and other speech measurement devices could be sampled in parallel under control of a host computer. It also discusses the constraints placed on the palatometer. The instrument provides for an in vivo calibration to determine the necessary contact thresholds. To meet timing and calibration requirements, the palatometer was designed to operate in two modes. In a data acquisition mode, the system operates under control of hard wired logic synchronized to the host computer. In the other mode, called a calibration mode, a microprocessor is used to apply various software algorithms to establish the contact thresholds. The instrument has been used in several experiments over the past year or so and no major problems have been encountered. Calibration has been performed successfully for both children and adults, requiring about 2 to 3 minutes to complete the task.
Melanoma induces, and adenosine suppresses, CXCR3-cognate chemokine production and T cell infiltration of lungs bearing metastatic-like disease (TUM7P.1017)

Melanoma-specific vaccines have minimal efficacy in patients with established disease but enhance survival when administered in the adjuvant setting. Therefore, we hypothesized that organs bearing metastatic-like melanoma may differentially produce T cell chemotactic proteins over the course of tumor development. Using an established model of metastatic-like melanoma in lungs, we assessed the production of specific cytokines and chemokines over a time-course of tumor growth, and we correlated chemokine production with chemokine receptor-specific T cell infiltration. CXCR3-cognate chemokines (CXCL9 and CXCL10) were significantly increased in lungs bearing minimal metastatic lesions, but chemokine was at or below basal levels in lungs with substantial disease. Chemokine production correlated with infiltration of the organ compartment by transferred CD8 + tumor antigen-specific T cells in a CXCR3- and host IFN-γ-dependent manner. Adenosine signaling suppressed chemokine production and T cell infiltration in the advanced metastatic lesions, and suppression could be partially reversed by the adenosine receptor antagonist aminophylline. Our data demonstrate that CXCR3-cognate ligand expression is required for efficient T cell access of tumor-infiltrated lungs, and ligands are expressed in a temporally-restricted pattern that is governed, in part, by adenosine. Modulation of adenosine activity may impart therapeutic efficacy to immunogenic but clinically ineffective vaccines.
Novel biological removal of hazardous chemicals at trace levels

Of recent concern is the removal of toxic compounds in wastewaters, soils, and groundwater to concentrations in the low microgram per litre level or less. Threshold limits to bioremediation exist and must be considered in biological treatment schemes to achieve such limits. These limits may be related to reaction kinetics or thermodynamics. Techniques for removing compounds below threshold levels exist that rely on appropriate approaches such as plug flow treatment. Novel biological methods exist for removal of refractory contaminants to low levels. Examples are provided for removal of trace levels of chlorinated solvents, such as tetrachloroethene (PCE) and trichloroethene (TCE), that employ dehalorespiration under anaerobic conditions or cometabolism under aerobic conditions. These approaches are currently being used in engineered systems or through natural attenuation for remediation of soils and groundwater. Successful results offer insights for similar removals of trace chemicals in both aerobic and anaerobic biological systems for treatment of wastewaters and sanitary landfills.
58 – The Role of Nitric Oxide in Cerebral Ischemia

This chapter explores the role of nitric oxide (NO) in cerebral ischemia. The free radical gas of nitric oxide is synthesized in neurons, glia, perivascular nerves, cerebrovascular endothelium, macrophages, and white blood cells from the amino acid L-arginine and molecular oxygen by the enzyme, nitric oxide synthase (NOS). At least three isoforms of NOS have been identified: neuronal and endothelial isoforms that are constitutively expressed and encoded on chromosomes 12 and 7, respectively, and an inducible isoform encoded on chromosome 17. Experimental results show that within 3–24 min after middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion, NO increases dramatically within cortex as detected by a porphyrinic microsensor. It is believed that constitutive NOS activity increases during ischemia due to a rise in intracellular Ca 2+ . Constitutive NOS (endothelial and neuronal isoforms) is activated by intracellular calcium concentrations slightly above the resting level and is maximally stimulated at levels well below those reached in neurons during focal ischemia. A late but sustained increase in NO levels may also occur due to expression of inducible NOS (Ca 2+ -independent isoform) within microglia and invading inflammatory cells 24 h after the induction of ischemia.
Exploring the deployment and reintegration experiences of active duty military families with young children

Active duty military families are experiencing increased stress as service members deploy to and return from lengthy and repeated deployments to multiple war zones. These deployments have a cumulat...
Hydrogel Tethering Enhances Interdomain Stabilization of Single-Chain Antibodies

Here, we identify the importance of molecular crowding agents in the functional stabilization of scFv antibodies. Antibodies were tethered through an engineered calmodulin (CaM)-binding peptide into a stimulus-responsive hydrogel composed of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-functionalized CaM. Macromolecular crowding is modulated by transient heating, which decreases effective pore sizes. Using a fluorescent ligand bound to the scFv, frequency-domain fluorescence spectroscopy was used to assess the structural coupling between the VH and the VL domains and relationships with functional stabilization. There is minimal structural coupling between the VH and the VL domains in solution, as is apparent from the substantial rotational mobility for the bound ligand, that is suggestive of an independent mobility for the VH and the VL domains. In comparison, the hydrogel matrix acts to structurally couple the VH and the VL domains, resulting in a reduction in rotational mobility and a retention of ligand binding in the ...
Anti-Tumour Necrosis Factor Therapy for Paediatric Crohn's Disease: Improved Benefits Through Treatment Optimisation, Deeper Understanding of Its Risks, and Reduced Costs due to Biosimilar Availability.

Antibodies directed to tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) are very effective in treating paediatric Crohn’s disease (CD). Over the last few years, research has provided important new insights into how to optimise this treatment’s effectiveness. Research on predictors for anti-TNF treatment responsiveness has revealed potential markers, but data on their accuracy in paediatric CD patients are lagging behind. Also, new evidence has become available on the safety profile of anti-TNF antibodies that suggests the assumed increased malignancy risk seen in patients on anti-TNF and thiopurine combination treatment may be linked more to thiopurine use and not to anti-TNF treatment. In addition, the early results of CT-P13, an infliximab biosimilar, in CD patients confirm the expected similarity with its originator. Thus, the effectiveness of anti-TNF antibody treatment is slowly improving, its malignancy risk is lower than assumed, and its costs are reduced by the introduction of equally effective biosimilars. Together, these trends allow for a more prominent role for anti-TNF antibodies in future treatment of paediatric CD.
Monte Carlo Simulation of the Concentration Dependence of Segregation at Vicinal Grain Boundaries

Using the Metropolis algorithm Monte Carlo technique solute-atom segregation is studied at two vicinal grain boundaries (GBs)—the Σ = 5/(002)/θ = 36.89° symmetrical twist and the Σ = 5/(310)/θ = 53.13° symmetrical tilt—at 850 K on the Ni-rich side of the Ni-Pt phase diagram, over the concentration range 0–10 at.% Pt. Unlike the Pt-rich side of the phase diagram the structures of both GBs remain stable in this concentration range. The dilute limit behavior for most GB sites extends to at least 0.1 at. %. At higher concentrations the effective segregation energies steadily decrease with increasing solute concentrations, due to solute-solute interactions between segregated atoms, until saturation occurs. It is argued that simple statistical mechanical models, e.g., the Fowler-Guggenheim model do not work well, even in the case of simple vicinal GBs.
Denosumab causing severe, refractory hypocalcaemia in a patient with chronic kidney disease

Denosumab is a fully human monoclonal antibody that is being increasingly used for the treatment of osteoporosis and prevention of skeletal-related events (SREs) in bone metastases from primary tumours. It has improved efficacy, better tolerability and convenient administration via subcutaneous route, in comparison with bisphosphonates; however, it has been reported to cause severe hypocalcaemia in certain high-risk individuals. We report the case of a 71-year-old man with a history of haemodialysis-dependent end-stage renal disease who developed severe hypocalcaemia with electrocardiographic changes after being started on denosumab for prevention of SREs from a recently diagnosed metastatic prostate cancer. He was admitted to the hospital for close monitoring and received multiple doses of intravenous calcium gluconate, along with haemodialysis with high calcium bath. We aim to highlight the risk of severe, life-threatening hypocalcaemia associated with denosumab and to recognise patients at risk of developing this serious adverse effect, so that prompt treatment and preventive strategies can be implemented.
Genetic Variants of Enzymes Detectable by Zone Electrophoresis

The method of staining for a specific enzyme activity directly in the electrophoretic medium following electrophoresis of tissue extracts, the socalled zymogram technique developed by Hunter and Markert (1957), provided a valuable tool for a wide variety of biological researches. Its first application was in the study of isozymes, or multiple molecular forms of enzymes occurring within the same organism (Markert and Moller, 1959). The method soon led to the detection of a number of genetically variant enzymes which have been used as genetic markers in a great variety of studies. These* include studies of genetic polymorphism, genetic difference between species, genetic mapping both by classical crossing techniques and by the newer technique of cultured cell hybridization, and in ontogenetic studies to determine time of activation of parental genes. Doubtless other applications will be devised and the importance of the technique will continue to expand.
Skull Base Tumors

Ocular manifestations are not infrequent in the presence of skull base tumors because of the crucial visual and oculomotor pathways traversing the skull base. Because familiarity with the intricate skull base anatomy is imperative for accurately diagnosing and effectively managing skull base tumors, this chapter provides a description of the anatomy of the skull base and a discussion of imaging techniques. Numerous types of tumors and their neuro-ophthalmologic correlations are also discussed, including esthesioneuroblastomas, chordomas, craniopharyngiomas, meningiomas, sinonasal tumors, schwannomas, pituitary tumors, myelomas, paragangliomas, and metastases.
Sechstes Kapitel. Funktionen und Grenzwerte

Fur die gesamte moderne Mathematik stehen die Begriffe der Funktion und des Grenzwertes oder „Limes“ im Mittelpunkt. Sie sollen in diesem Kapitel systematisch diskutiert werden.
Molecular basis for the interaction of polyglutamates of folic acid and its analogs with dihydrofolate reductase.

Fluorimetric titration has been used to measure the dissociation constants for the complexes of folate, pteroyltriglutamate and pteroylheptaglutamate with dihydrofolate reductase purified from Lactobacillus casei, Streptococcus faecium (isoenzyme 2) and bovine liver. Effects of pH, temperature, salt concentration and second ligands have been examined. The method is shown to be unsuitable for methotrexate complexes.
Using math magic to reinforce algebraic concepts: an exploratory study

An exploratory study was conducted to investigate the use of magic activities in a math course for prospective middle-school math teachers. This research report focuses on a lesson using two versio...
Rethinking the Imposter Phenomenon

The Imposter Phenomenon—i.e., the phenomenon of feeling like a fraud and like your successes aren’t really yours—is typically construed not just as a crisis of confidence, but as a failure of rationality. On the standard story, “imposters” have bad beliefs about their talents because they dismiss the evidence provided by their successes. Here I suggest that this standard picture could be mistaken, and that these “imposters” may actually be more rational (on average) than non-imposters. Why? Accounting for the non-talent causes of your successes may require you to lower your confidence in your talents, in which case, “imposter” beliefs are rational. I then go on to suggest a second reason to worry about the standard picture: It does not adequately address the possible role that one’s environment has in the production of the phenomenon. To give an example, I hypothesize that environments that host a “culture of genius” can alter our evidential landscape in a way that promotes the Imposter Phenomenon. Finally, I argue that my alternative picture of the Imposter Phenomenon should prompt us to opt for a conception of self-worth that is more deeply tied to virtues like intellectual humility than to relative talent possession.
Geriatric Nutrition Risk Index is Associated with LVAD Recipient Survival with Cutoff Value of 92.68

Purpose Malnutrition is a common problem in the heart failure population. The Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI) is commonly adopted scoring system that evaluates patients' nutritional status. GNRI has been reported to have significant prognostic value and independent risk factor for adverse events in patients with heart failure as well as those undergoing various surgeries. There is a paucity of GNRI data in left ventricular assisted device (LVAD) recipients and a GNRI cutoff value for LVAD patient assessment has not yet been reported. Our aim of study is to analyze patient outcomes related to preoperative GNRI and develop a GNRI cutoff value for worse overall survival to enable better patient selection. Methods 120 end stage heart failure patients who underwent primary LVAD implantation from January 2015 to February 2018 were included in our single institution retrospective study. GNRI was determined using the formula (1.489 × albumin in g/l) + (41.7 × present/ideal body weight). Receiver operation characteristic (ROC) curve was used to determine a cut off GNRI value for worse overall mortality on LVAD support. We defined two groups with this cutoff as high or low GNRI groups. The perioperative demographics, post-operative complications and survival were analyzed between these two groups. Univariate analysis was used to evaluate GNRI as an independent risk factor for mortality. Results ROC curve demonstrated a cut off GNRI value for overall survival as 92.68. High GNRI group (n=95) and low GNRI group (n=25) were defined from this cut off value. Kaplan Meier curve showed significant overall mortality between 2 groups (p=0.031). Univariate analysis showed GNRI p-value of 0.051. Conclusion We have successfully shown that GNRI below a cutoff value of 92.68 to be associated for worse outcomes in LVAD recipients including worse overall mortality. For these patients, it is important to consider the surgical indication, timing and nutrition optimization prior to LVAD implantation.
Marijuana Use Is Not Associated With Changes in Opioid Prescriptions or Pain Severity Among People Living With HIV and Chronic Pain.

Background:People living with HIV (PLWH) commonly report marijuana use for chronic pain, although there is limited empirical evidence to support its use. There is hope that marijuana may reduce prescription opioid use. Our objective was to investigate whether marijuana use among PLWH who have chroni
Evaluating impacts of marine governance on human communities: Testing aspects of a human impact assessment model

Abstract A human impact assessment (HIA) model was developed to guide research to understand how changes in a fishery can impact fishermen and fishing communities. Path analysis demonstrates that job satisfaction is an important variable intervening between marine governance and well-being. Individual-level variables in the demographic latent variable influence aspects of job satisfaction as well as well-being. It is variance in management that influences satisfaction with fishing which has a direct effect on well-being. In the HIA model, the three components of job satisfaction (self-actualization, income, and psycho-social) have the greatest total impact on well-being. The model also indicates complex relationships between management, fishing activity attributes, job satisfaction, and individual and social attributes. Relationships between community context and differences in job satisfaction in the Northeast and Alaska regions confirmed that these factors, also included in the HIA model, are important aspects of impact assessment. Results help to show that changes in ocean governance have impacts on the human communities who use these important resources. To anticipate and ameliorate potential impacts on human well-being as indicated by tools such as the HIA model, research needs to be accomplished to appropriately design and account for these impacts.
Paterno−Büchi Coupling of (Diaryl)acetylenes and Quinone via Photoinduced Electron Transfer

Photoinduced coupling of an acetylene with a quinone in two wavelength regions (λDB and λCT) can be regioselective to yield a single quinone methide adduct when various diarylacetylenes (DA) and 2,6-dichlorobenzoquinone (DB) are used. Thus, the direct photoexcitation of DB at λDB = 355 nm or the specific activation of the 1:1 electron donor−acceptor complex [DA,DB] at λCT = 532 nm both lead to the transient ion-radical pair [DA•+,DB•-], which is established by time-resolved (ps,ns) spectroscopy. Competition between back electron transfer (kBET) and ion-radical pair collapse (kC) to the distonic adduct DA-DB, as described in Schemes 1 and 2, limits the quantum yields for both photochemical processes in Table 4. The biradical nature of the distonic adduct in Scheme 3 accommodates the various facets of acetylene reactivity and unique regioselectivity to yield the same quinone methide by both actinic processes. In a more general context, the electron-transfer mechanism established by the charge-transfer excit...
Knitting Community: Human and Social Capital in the Transition to Entrepreneurship

The process by which individuals become entrepreneurs is often described as a decisive moment of transition, yet it necessarily involves a series of smaller steps. This study examines how human cap...
Chromatin structure dynamics during the mitosis-to-G1 phase transition

Features of higher-order chromatin organization-such as A/B compartments, topologically associating domains and chromatin loops-are temporarily disrupted during mitosis1,2. Because these structures are thought to influence gene regulation, it is important to understand how they are re-established after mitosis. Here we examine the dynamics of chromosome reorganization by Hi-C after mitosis in highly purified, synchronous mouse erythroid cell populations. We observed rapid establishment of A/B compartments, followed by their gradual intensification and expansion. Contact domains form from the 'bottom up'-smaller subTADs are formed initially, followed by convergence into multi-domain TAD structures. CTCF is partially retained on mitotic chromosomes and immediately resumes full binding in ana/telophase. By contrast, cohesin is completely evicted from mitotic chromosomes and regains focal binding at a slower rate. The formation of CTCF/cohesin co-anchored structural loops follows the kinetics of cohesin positioning. Stripe-shaped contact patterns-anchored by CTCF-grow in length, which is consistent with a loop-extrusion process after mitosis. Interactions between cis-regulatory elements can form rapidly, with rates exceeding those of CTCF/cohesin-anchored contacts. Notably, we identified a group of rapidly emerging transient contacts between cis-regulatory elements in ana/telophase that are dissolved upon G1 entry, co-incident with the establishment of inner boundaries or nearby interfering chromatin loops. We also describe the relationship between transcription reactivation and architectural features. Our findings indicate that distinct but mutually influential forces drive post-mitotic chromatin reconfiguration.
System Architecture of a Human Biosensing and Monitoring Suite with Adaptive Task Allocation

Future space missions require the integration of enhanced physical and physiological monitoring systems for supporting missions of both short and long duration. This human biosensing and monitoring suite will specify and implement a proof of concept of a non-invasive sensor system for crew monitoring in space missions, by integrating cost-cutting equipment. HuBAM is composed of: (1) astronaut wearable suit(s) (AWS), combined with (2) an Automated Equipping station (AES) that can be deployed as needed within space habitats and/or space transportation vehicles. The design and evaluation methods employed will be systematically mapped onto each Design Thinking stage for this first iteration. Based on results and findings, the paper will deliver recommendations and tasks for further developments, and future iterations using the Design Thinking process.
Parental Leave Policy Influence on Fertility Rates: The Importance of Social Contexts on German and Swedish Reform with the United States as a Reference

Low fertility is an issue that is troubling many developed countries in Europe. In 2014, the average fertility rate for nations within the European Union (EU) was 1.58 live births per woman, which is well below the replacement rate of 2.1 needed to maintain a constant population size (ec.europa.eu). Declining fertility rates are considered a dilemma for policy makers within the EU. The low rates threaten the economic growth of the EU nations due to their inability to continue accommodating for an aging population without an adequate replacement of working-age adults to add to the pensions (Vos 2009).
Geospatial Variations and Neighborhood Deprivation in Drug-Related Admissions and Overdoses

Drug overdoses are a national and global epidemic. However, while overdoses are inextricably linked to social, demographic, and geographical determinants, geospatial patterns of drug-related admissions and overdoses at the neighborhood level remain poorly studied. The objective of this paper is to investigate spatial distributions of patients admitted for drug-related admissions and overdoses from a large, urban, tertiary care center using electronic health record data. Additionally, these spatial distributions were adjusted for a validated socioeconomic index called the Area Deprivation Index (ADI). We showed spatial heterogeneity in patients admitted for opioid, amphetamine, and psychostimulant-related diagnoses and overdoses. While ADI was associated with drug-related admissions, it did not correct for spatial variations and could not account alone for this spatial heterogeneity.
Impact of a cattle brush on feedlot steer behavior, productivity and stress physiology

Abstract The aim of the present study was to investigate the impact of environmental enrichment (EE), in the form of a cattle brush, on feedlot cattle behavior, productivity and stress physiology. Steers were blocked by weight and assigned to one of two treatments 1) Cattle brush secured to fence line (BRUSH; n = 3 pens; 25 animals) or 2) No enrichment (CON; n = 3 pens; 26 animals). Video recordings were decoded from 0800 to 1730 on d -2, -1, 0, 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32 and 64 relative to brush implementation. Headbutting, kicking, mounting, bar licking, tongue rolling, allogrooming and brush usage were scored through continuous observation. Scan samples at 10-minute intervals were utilized to score lying, drinking and eating. Rumination and activity data were collected from rumination collars. Hair coat shed scores were recorded upon feedlot arrival (d -55) and prior to first block slaughter shipment (d 161). Body weights and hair samples for cortisol extraction were obtained at 35 d intervals. Performance measures were calculated weekly and carcass data were collected at slaughter. Impact of day, treatment, and their interaction on cattle behavior and physiological measures and the impact of treatment on performance measures was evaluated in SAS. Cattle housed in BRUSH pens performed fewer headbutts (P = 0.013) over time compared to CON cattle. For BRUSH cattle, frequency and duration of brush usage changed over time, peaking on d 0 (P
Work, Gender, and Sexual Harassment on the Frontlines of Commercial Travel: A Cross-Sectional Study of Flight Crew Well-Being

The scale and scope of experience of sexual harassment at work among male and female flight attendants was examined. Flight attendants are a predominantly female workforce with an occupational heri...
Relevance of sentinel lymph node biopsy for thick melanoma in the era of immunotherapy.

Abstract Background Sentinel lymph node biopsy provides prognostic information in patients with thick melanoma but is often underutilized. We examine regional lymph node evaluation (RLNE) in patients with thick melanoma and the effect on treatment and overall survival (OS). Methods Patients with clinical T4N0M0 melanoma were selected from the National Cancer Database (2004–2015). Binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with RLNE and treatment. Overall survival analysis was performed. Results A total of 14 286 patients with clinical T4N0M0 melanoma were identified; RLNE was performed in 70.2% of patients, and positive LNs were identified in 27.1%. RLNE was more likely in males (OR:1.44, 95%CI: 1.32–1.56, p Conclusion The use of RLNE in patients with thick melanoma is important for prognosis and to risk stratify patients for selection of adjuvant therapies and clinical trials.
Unidirectional Luminescence from InGaN/GaN Quantum-Well Metasurfaces

We demonstrate metasurface -based designs of InGaN/GaN quantum-well structures that generate narrow, unidirectional emission lobes at arbitrary engineered angles. The metasurface structuring also leads to ∼100-fold enhancements in photoluminescence efficiencies for emission into air.
Zinculose: A new fibrous material with embedded zinc particles

Abstract In this paper, we report a simple and inexpensive procedure to make a composite material of cellulose fibers with embedded zinc micoparticles. This fibrous material is produced by sedimentation and is referred to as “Zinculose”. Zinculose increases the surface contact area between a sample fluid and zinc microparticles. The effect of different parameters including fiber content, zinc content, water volume, applied weight and its duration on the thickness of produced Zinculose were investigated. Results show that thickness depends on the amount of initial fiber and zinc while other parameters investigated had little to no effect. Measured porosity values for Zinculose ranged between 0.699 and 0.843. Characterization of flow in Zinculose exhibits a linear relationship between distance and the square root of time which is a distinctive feature of capillary driven flow in porous media. This is an important quality that allows Zinculose to be easily incorporated into any paper-based microfluidic device that requires a sample to flow and interact with zinc microparticles without disrupting the flow path between different sections of the device. An application is presented in which a strip of Zinculose is used to convert nitrate to nitrite. With the use of Zinculose in a paper-based microfluidic device, a conversion efficiency of 27% nitrate to nitrite was achieved. This represents a 36% enhancement over what has been previously published when zinc microparticles were not embedded within the fibers of the paper channel.
Obtaining Xenopus laevis Eggs

Nearly a century ago, studies by Lancelot Hogben and others demonstrated that ovulation in female Xenopus laevis can be induced via injection of mammalian gonadotropins into the dorsal lymph sac, allowing for egg production throughout the year independent of the normal reproductive cycles. Hormonally induced females are capable of producing thousands of eggs in a single spawning, which can then be fertilized to generate embryos or used as a substrate for generation of egg extracts. The protocol for induction of ovulation and subsequent egg collection is straightforward and robust, yet some of its details may vary among laboratories based on prior training, availability of necessary reagents, or the experimental objectives. As the goal of this protocol is not to describe every single variation possible for acquiring eggs but to provide a simple and clear description that can be easily applied by researchers with no prior working experience with X. laevis, we focus on describing the method we use at the National Xenopus Resource-that is, inducing ovulation in X. laevis via dorsal lymph sac injection of gonadotropic hormones and the stimulation of egg laying through application of gentle pressure to the females.
Extension of the NEAMS workbench to parallel sensitivity and uncertainty analysis of thermal hydraulic parameters using Dakota and Nek5000

Abstract With the increasing availability of high-performance computing (HPC) platforms, uncertainty quantification (UQ) and sensitivity analyses (SA) can be efficiently leveraged to optimize design parameters of complex engineering problems using modeling and simulation tools. The workflow involved in such studies heavily relies on HPC resources and hence requires pre-processing and post-processing capabilities of large amounts of data along with remote submission capabilities. The NEAMS Workbench addresses all aspects of the workflows involved in these studies by relying on a user-friendly graphical user interface and a python application program interface. This paper highlights the NEAMS Workbench capabilities by presenting a semiautomated coupling scheme between Dakota and any given package integrated with the NEAMS Workbench, yielding a simplified workflow for users. This new capability is demonstrated by running a SA of a turbulent flow in a pipe using the open-source Nek5000 CFD code. A total of 54 jobs were run on a HPC platform using the remote capabilities of the NEAMS Workbench. The results demonstrate that the semiautomated coupling scheme involving Dakota can be efficiently used for UQ and SA while keeping scripting tasks to a minimum for users. All input and output files used in this work are available in https://code.ornl.gov/neams-workbench/dakota-nek5000-study .
Willingness to Attend Sex Venues in the Context of the COVID-19 Pandemic in New York City: Results from an Online Survey with Sexual and Gender Minority Individuals.

Collective sex venues (places where people have sex in groups or in the presence of others, such as bathhouses or sex clubs) are locations where SARS-CoV-2 transmission is likely to occur. We conducted an online survey to examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic among 342 sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals who had attended collective sex venues (CSV) in New York City (NYC) in the prior year. Almost 1 in 10 (9.9%) participants reported having received a positive test for SARS-CoV-2 infection or antibodies. Although a minority (27.5%) of participants reported being comfortable attending a CSV during the COVID-19 pandemic, multivariable ordinal logistic regression found that willingness was higher among participants who had taken the survey later in the pandemic (aOR = 2.90, CI95% 1.90 to 4.43), who attended CSV at higher frequencies (aOR = 1.94, CI95% 1.26 to 2.99), who used substances at CSV (aOR = 1.98, CI95% 1.22 to 3.23), and who had tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection or antibodies (aOR = 2.27, CI95% 1.17 to 4.39). In open survey answers, participants described reasons for or against attending CSV during the pandemic, as well as risk reduction strategies that would make them more comfortable attending (e.g., screening for test results, doing temperature checks, holding outdoor events, or restricting events to lower risk sexual practices). SGM individuals who attend CSV might be at increased risk for COVID-19. Public health officials should provide CSV organizers and attendees with guidelines on how to prevent or minimize transmission risk in the context of pandemics such as COVID-19.
Low-molecular-weight chromium-binding substance (LMWCr) may bind and carry Cr(III) from the endosome.

Abstract Trivalent chromium has been proposed to be transported in vivo from the bloodstream to the tissues via endocytosis by transferrin (Tf), the major iron transport protein in the blood. While Cr(III) loss from the Tf/Tf receptor complex after acidification to pH 5.5 has recently been shown to be sufficiently rapid to be physiologically relevant, the released Cr(III) still must exit the endosome during the time of the endocytosis cycle (circa 15 min). Cr(III) binds too slowly to small ligands such as citrate or ascorbate, or even EDTA, for such complexes to form and be transported from the endosome, while no trivalent ion transporters are known. However, the apo form of the peptide low-molecular-weight chromium-binding substance (LMWCr) can remove Cr(III) from Cr(III)2-Tf at neutral pH, albeit slowly, and LMWCr is known to be transported from cells after binding Cr(III), although the transporter is not known. LMWCr subsequently carries Cr(III) to the bloodstream ultimately for removal from the body in the urine. The rate of binding of Cr(III) to apoLMWCr was significantly enhanced in the presence of the Tf/Tf receptor complex. These results suggest that apoLMWCr may function to bind Cr(III) released in the endosomes for ultimate removal from the body as part of a Cr(III) detoxification process.
Evaluation of teleophthalmology during the COVID-19 pandemic at a single outpatient clinical practice

Purpose : The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated a global paradigm shift regarding healthcare delivery, replacing the traditional in-office visit with a virtual platform, in order to limit viral exposure and spread. The purpose of this study is to evaluate agreement between the diagnosis and management of common eye diseases seen in virtual eye care visits versus traditional in-office visits. Methods : This is a retrospective chart review of patients who presented to a single center for a video televisit between March and June 2020. Agreement was based on a qualitative comparison between the documented primary diagnosis and treatment plan at the first synchronous video visit and first subsequent in-office visit. Results : During the NY State Lockdown, a single-center practice saw 779 distinct patients virtually. The most common diagnostic categories were Lids/Adnexa (29%), Cornea (18%), and Glaucoma (16%). Of these, 425 (55%) were subsequently seen at an in-office visit. When comparing the primary diagnosis at the two visits, a similar diagnostic code was maintained for 354 patients (83%). There were no known significant adverse outcomes for any patient seen virtually. Medication changes were made at 268 (34%) video visits. These were guided by symptoms and external exams, although a minority were prophylactic or part of post-operative care. The new treatment plan was maintained for the same diagnosis at 50% of the subsequent in-office visits. Overall, there was an escalation of care for 131 patients (31%), a deescalation of care for 32 patients (7.5%), and no change in management for 257 patients (60.1%) at the follow-up traditional office visit. Glaucoma patients were the most likely to require additional management (either drops or procedural intervention) when seen in the office. Conclusions : Based on the results of this study, teleophthalmology provides a safe, feasible, and fairly accurate means of providing routine outpatient eye care.[1] There was an agreement in diagnoses between the virtual and traditional visit in 83% of patients and management plans remained unchanged for at least 60% of patients. Particularly given the importance of the ophthalmic exam, there are limitations to this model of care resulting in missed diagnoses or escalations of care. Addressing these limitations will require further investigation.
Remembering my memories: Black feminist memory work as a visual research method of inquiry

Broadly, this article details the imbrication of a Black feminist qualitative researcher’s onto-epistemology and data (meta-) analysis process. I theorize Black feminist memory work, then apply thi...
Ghrelin as an Anti-Sepsis Peptide: Review

Sepsis continues to produce widespread inflammation, illness, and death, prompting intensive research aimed at uncovering causes and therapies. In this article, we focus on ghrelin, an endogenous peptide with promise as a potent anti-inflammatory agent. Ghrelin was discovered, tracked, and isolated from stomach cells based on its ability to stimulate release of growth hormone. It also stimulates appetite and is shown to be anti-inflammatory in a wide range of tissues. The anti-inflammatory effects mediated by ghrelin are a result of both the stimulation of anti-inflammatory processes and an inhibition of pro-inflammatory forces. Anti-inflammatory processes are promoted in a broad range of tissues including the hypothalamus and vagus nerve as well as in a broad range of immune cells. Aged rodents have reduced levels of growth hormone (GH) and diminished immune responses; ghrelin administration boosts GH levels and immune response. The anti-inflammatory functions of ghrelin, well displayed in preclinical animal models of sepsis, are just being charted in patients, with expectations that ghrelin and growth hormone might improve outcomes in patients with sepsis.
Animal Ethics and the Law

Everyone reading this Article is doubtless aware of the woeful lack of legal protection for farm animals in the United States. Not only do the laws fail to assure even a minimally decent life for the majority of these animals, they do not provide protection against the most egregious treatment. As both a philosopher who has helped articulate new emerging societal ethics for animals, and as one who has successfully developed laws embodying that ethic—notably the 1985 federal laws protecting laboratory animals—I will stress the direction we need to move in the future to enfranchise farm animals. I have seen ethics inform law and law potentiate ethics—for example, when preparing my testimony before Congress in 1982 in defense of the laws mandating control of pain and suffering in laboratory animals, I found in a literature search only two papers on pain control, a telling indicator of the failure of the research community to practice pain control. Today there are somewhere between 5,000 and 10,000 such papers, and the practice of pain control has correlatively increased exponentially, all as a result of a legislative mandate. I also believe in the power of articulated societal ethics in effecting change—I was partly instrumental in convincing Smithfield to abandon sow stalls by ethical discussion with some of its senior executives. I will thus discuss the ethical basis of future laws.
Assessing the Relationship between Socioeconomic Variables and Risk of Overweight among Children 6 Years of Age

Background: The percentage of overweight children has tripled in the last thirty years. Inconsistent findings are published regarding the relationship between socioeconomic variables and being overweight in childhood. Objective: To determine whether socioeconomic variables are associated with risk of being overweight among six year olds. Methods: Six year olds with BMI data were selected from the National Survey of Children's Health (n=4,362). Variables were coded and a low socioeconomic index was created. Using population weights, descriptive statistics were generated and regression was utilized to assess the relationship between socioeconomic variables and being 'at risk' for overweight. Socioeconomic variables were also compared by risk status. Results: Approximately 47% of the sample was 'at risk' of overweight (BMI ~ 8 5 ~ ~ percentile). Males and nonwhites were more likely to be 'at risk' than their counterparts. After adjustment, the proportion of those with Medicaid was greater among the 'at risk' group compared to those who were 'not at risk' (38.3% vs. 35.3%' p-value=0.010). Those 'at risk' were also more likely to have freelreduced-cost breakfadlunch (60.3% vs. 5 1.8%, p-value=<0.0001). Overall, those 'at risk' had a higher mean low socioeconomic index score than those 'not at risk' (2.0 vs. 1.9, p-value=0.059). No other statistically significant differences in socioeconomic variables were found by 'at risk' status. Conclusion: Several low socioeconomic indicators as well as a composite index were associated with being 'at risk' for childhood overweight. With the current obesity epidemic, governmental agencies should identify low socioeconomic groups and target interventions specific to these vulnerable populations.