cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
New records of ascidians from the NE Pacific: a new species of Trididemnum, range extension and redescription of Aplidiopsis pannosum (Ritter, 1899) including its larva, and several non-indigenous species

Nouvelles mentions d'ascidies du Pacifique NE : une nouvelle espece de Trididemnum, extension de l'aire et redescription dAplidiopsis pannosum (Ritter, 1899) incluant sa larve, et plusieurs especes non indigenes. Une nouvelle ascidie aplousobranche Trididemnum alexi n. sp. est decrite de l'archipel San Juan, Etat de Washington, USA. Les colonies sont lisses, d'un brun-rouge fonce. La largeur maximum est 8 cm et l'epaisseur 2 cm en certains endroits, due aux grands canaux cloacaux situes sous les zoides. Une epaisse couche de cellules vesiculaires (200-400 pm) est presente en surface. Les spicules de 20 a 30 μm sont irregulierement etoiles avec huit a 10 rayons courts et pointus en coupe optique. Ils sont disperses dans la tunique sauf dans la couche superficielle. Les zoides ont 12 a 13 stigmates de chaque cote dans les deux premiers rangs (parfois 11 a 14) et generalement un a deux de moins dans le troisieme rang. Le siphon cloacal tubulaire s'ouvre dorsalement en face du deuxieme rang de stigmates. L'unique testicule est recouvert de huit a neuf tours du spermiducte. A la base des colonies les larves ont un tronc de 0,8 a 1,0 mm, trois papilles adhesives et generalement sept paires de vesicules laterales dont les extremites sont courbees chez les tetards completement developpes. Une redescription de Aplidiopsis pannosum (Ritter, 1899) inclut l'analyse morphologique de plusieurs stades larvaires. Cette espece largement repartie dans le Pacifique Nord n'etait pas connue au sud de l'Alaska sur la cote ouest nord-americaine. Des repartitions geographiques sont aussi incluses pour certaines ascidies qui ne sont pas indigenes: Ciona savignyi Herdman, 1882, Botrylloides violaceus Oka, 1927, Styela clava Herdman, 1881 et Molgula manhattensis (De Kay, 1843).
A pragmatic approach to cost-effective use of laboratory tests and imaging procedures in patients with musculoskeletal symptoms.

SUMMARY In this article, serologic tests and other procedures widely used to establish diagnoses of patients with rheumatic diseases are discussed. Musculoskeletal conditions are among the most common seen by physicians, and the current practice of including extensive laboratory tests and imaging procedures is not only ineffective but frequently results in misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment. The approach outlined should provide treatment that is not only cost-effective but is directed to relief of symptoms and preservation of function, which are the primary goals of the patient and physician in the management of musculoskeletal problems. The costs in diagnosis of most patients with musculoskeletal pain often are considerably greater than the costs of treatment, which might be a reasonable consideration if expensive diagnostic studies would provide meaningful specificity regarding treatment. Many results, however, are misleading, for example, phenomena seen in at least 1% of the population, such as elevated ESR, rheumatoid factor titer, ANA, elevated uric acid, and Lyme Borreliosis titer, may be seen in individuals whose primary problem is fibromyalgia. In view of the fact that treatment is generally based on clinical observations, a considerable reduction in diagnostic studies might considerably reduce costs of patient care, without adversely affecting results and outcomes.
Abstract A85: Characteristics and outcome of the patients who refuse cancer directed surgery

Objective: To compare patient and tumor characteristics and survival between those who declined and accepted cancer directed surgery for hepatocellular carcinoma. Design: Observational cohort study. Background: Cancer directed surgery represents the central component of curative approach for hepatocellular carcinoma, but some patients who are eligible surgery may elect not to undergo cancer directed surgery. This study investigated the frequency, cancer directed surgery refusal, characteristics and outcomes among patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Patients and Methods: In 31049 patients, age >18 years with hepatocellular carcinoma recorded in the SEER Registry between 1973 and 2004, 13332 patients were recommended for cancer directed surgery, 5378 underwent recommended surgery and 489 refused surgery. Patients who refused surgery were compared with those accepted surgery using logistic regression. The effect of refusal of cancer directed surgery on hepatocellular carcinoma mortality was evaluated by Cox proportional hazards analysis. Results: 489 patients (3.7% of surgery candidates) declined cancer directed surgery. These patients were more frequently older, non-caucasian, widowed, divorced and those patients who had advanced stage tumors. After accounting for other prognostic factors including patient, tumor characteristics, and those patients who refused surgery had a 2.766-fold (95% confidence interval, 2.339–3.189) increased risk to die of hepatocellular carcinoma compared with operated patients. Conclusions: The patients who declined cancer directed surgery for hepatocellular carcinoma had an impaired survival. This information might be helpful for those patients who are offered cancer directed surgery to make a better informed decision.
SU‐F‐J‐93: Automated Segmentation of High‐Resolution 3D WholeBrain Spectroscopic MRI for Glioblastoma Treatment Planning

Purpose: We report on an automated segmentation algorithm for defining radiation therapy target volumes using spectroscopic MR images (sMRI) acquired at nominal voxel resolution of 100 microliters. Methods: Wholebrain sMRI combining 3D echo-planar spectroscopic imaging, generalized auto-calibrating partially-parallel acquisitions, and elliptical k-space encoding were conducted on 3T MRI scanner with 32-channel head coil array creating images. Metabolite maps generated include choline (Cho), creatine (Cr), and N-acetylaspartate (NAA), as well as Cho/NAA, Cho/Cr, and NAA/Cr ratio maps. Automated segmentation was achieved by concomitantly considering sMRI metabolite maps with standard contrast enhancing (CE) imaging in a pipeline that first uses the water signal for skull stripping. Subsequently, an initial blob of tumor region is identified by searching for regions of FLAIR abnormalities that also display reduced NAA activity using a mean ratio correlation and morphological filters. These regions are used as starting point for a geodesic level-set refinement that adapts the initial blob to the fine details specific to each metabolite. Results: Accuracy of the segmentation model was tested on a cohort of 12 patients that had sMRI datasets acquired pre, mid and post-treatment, providing a broad range of enhancement patterns. Compared to classical imaging, where heterogeneity in the tumor appearance and shape across posed a greater challenge to the algorithm, sMRI's regions of abnormal activity were easily detected in the sMRI metabolite maps when combining the detail available in the standard imaging with the local enhancement produced by the metabolites. Results can be imported in the treatment planning, leading in general increase in the target volumes (GTV60) when using sMRI+CE MRI compared to the standard CE MRI alone. Conclusion: Integration of automated segmentation of sMRI metabolite maps into planning is feasible and will likely streamline acceptance of this new acquisition modality in clinical practice.
Impression Management Techniques in Marketing Channels: A Theoretical Perspective and Research Agenda

AbstractThis paper broadens the focus of impression management theory to encompass communications between channel members within a marketing context. A set of impression management techniques is presented which channel members may use to manage impressions within the context of varying channel governance structures. Assertive and defensive impression management techniques are identified as strategies that may help channel members improve, protect, or repair their images as they continue to evolve toward cooperative arrangements.
Scaling and uncertainty analysis in ecology : methods and applications

Dedication. Preface J. Wu et al. List of Contributors.- Part I. Concepts and Methods. 1. Concepts of scale and scaling J. Wu, H. Li. 2. Perspectives and methods of scaling J. Wu, H. Li. 3. Uncertainty analysis in ecological studies: An overview H. Li, J. Wu. 4. Multilevel statistical models and ecological scaling R.A. Berk , J. De Leeuw. 5. Downscaling abundance from the distribution of species: Occupancy theory and applications F. He, W. Reed. 6. Scaling terrestrial biogeochemical processes: Contrasting intact and model experimental systems M.A. Bradford, J.F. Reynolds. 7. A framework and methods for simplifying complex landscapes to reduce uncertainty in predictions D.P.C. Peters et al. 8. Building up with a top-down approach: The role of remote sensing in deciphering functional and structural diversity C.A. Wessman, C.A. Bateson.- Part II. Case studies. 9. Carbon fluxes across regions: Observational constraints at multiple scales B.E. Law et al. 10. Landscape and regional scale studies of nitrogen gas fluxes P.M. Groffman et al. 11. Multiscale relationships of landscape characteristics and nitrogen concentrations in streams K.B. Jones et al. 12. Uncertainty in scaling nutrient export coefficients J.D. Wickham et al. 13. Causes and consequences of land use change in the North Carolina Piedmont: The scope of uncertainty D.L. Urban et al. 14. Assessing the influence of spatial scale on the relationship between avian nesting success and forest fragmentation P. Lloyd et al. 15. Scaling issues in mapping riparian zones with remote sensing data: Quantifying errors andsources of uncertainty T.P. Hollenhorst et al. 16. Scale issues in lake-watershed interaction: Assessing shoreline development, impacts on water clarity C.A. Johnston, B.A. Shmagin. 17. Scaling and uncertainty in region-wide water quality decision-making O.L. Loucks et al.- Part III. Synthesis. 18. Scaling with known uncertainty: A Synthesis J. Wu et al.- Index.
Abstract 1299: Tumor-infiltrating B cells are predictive of human lung squamous cell survival

Recent studies in human lung squamous cell carcinoma (SqCC) have shown that upregulation of B cell-associated genes strongly correlate with patient survival. More than any genetic factor (immunologic or otherwise) CD79A, a pan-B cell marker, was found to have the strongest predictive value. Expression of this marker was capable of identifying short ( 6 years) term lung SqCC survivors, with greater than 80% accuracy. These data suggest that the presence of CD79A-expressing tumor-infiltrating B (TIL-B) cells may be contributing to patient outcome. The aim of this study was to characterize CD79A+ TIL-B cells in SqCC patient samples and evaluate their role in lung SqCC survival. We evaluated human lung cancer specimens from long and short term survivors for the presence of CD79A+ TIL-B cells by immunofluorescence and found that their presence directly correlates with survival time. Further analysis showed that CD79A expression found in tumors of long term survivors (>6 years) co-localizes with CD20 staining but not CD138 staining, indicating that the cells responsible for producing a survival signature are not plasma cells. These data indicate that CD79A+ TIL-B cells are contributing to the generation of an efficient immune response in lung SqCC and may be doing so through non-humoral functions. Citation Format: Sara Centuori, Samuel Kim, Cecil Gomes, Charles Putnam, David Mount, Linda Garland, Jesse Martinez. Tumor-infiltrating B cells are predictive of human lung squamous cell survival. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 106th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2015 Apr 18-22; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(15 Suppl):Abstract nr 1299. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2015-1299
Evaluation of a steroid releasing sinus implant for the treatment of patients undergoing frontal sinus surgery for chronic rhinosinusitis

Introduction: Management of the frontal sinus places great demands on the otolaryngologist. Given that the fronto-ethmoidal region is susceptible to recurrent inflammation, scarring, and stenosis, ...
Using Importance-Performance Analysis to Guide Instructional Design of Experiential Learning Activities

Designing experiential learning activities requires an instructor to think about what they want the students to learn. Using importance-performance analysis can assist with the instructional design of the activities. This exploratory study used importance-performance analysis in an online introduction to criminology course. There is limited research on experiential learning in online courses as well as empirical data to assist with the instructional design of the experiential learning activities. The primary goal of this article is to demonstrate the use of importance- performance analysis to guide the instructional design of experiential learning activities.
Significance of non-classical damping in seismic qualification of equipment and piping

Abstract This paper presents a discussion on the significance of non-classical damping in coupled primary-secondary systems such as building-equipment or building-piping. Closed-form expressions are used to illustrate that the effect of non-classical damping is significant in systems with tuned or nearly tuned uncoupled modes when the mass-interaction is sufficiently small. Further, simple primary-secondary systems are used to illustrate that composite modal damping is another form of classical damping for which the transformed damping matrix, obtained after pre- and post-multiplication of the damping matrix with the modal matrix, contains only diagonal terms. Both the composite and the classical damping give almost identical results that can be much different from the corresponding results for non-classical damping. Finally, it is shown that consideration of classical damping (ignoring the off-diagonal terms) can give excessively conservative results in nearly tuned primary-secondary systems. For perfectly tuned primary-secondary systems, however, classical damping can give responses that are much lower than what they should be.
Effects of Storage of Blood on Stability of Hematologic Parameters

The hematologic parameters of blood stored at 4 degrees C and at room temperature were studied. In blood stored at 4 degrees C with intermittent mixing, leukocyte count, hemoglobin, erythrocyte count, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), hematocrit, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), and platelet count showed no statistically significant change for three days. Blood stored at room temperature showed a significant increase in MCV in 24 hours, and corresponding changes occurred in hematocrit and MCHC. It is concluded from these observations that blood from normal healthy donors can serve as an adequate control for the Coulter Counter for three days if kept at 4 degrees C and mixed intermittently.
Martínez v. State of New Mexico: The Right to a Sufficient Education

Plaintiffs in the Martinez v. State of New Mexico lawsuit are 51 students, parents, and guardians from seven public school districts across New Mexico. This is a school finance case that goes beyond seeking more funds for public education to arguing that providing a sufficient education for New Mexico’s 338,307 students enrolled during the 2016-2017 school year (New Mexico Public Education Department, 2017) involves more than increasing the amount of money allocated for pupils across its 89 school districts. Although the plaintiffs in this case represent low-income and high-need families of many ethnic backgrounds in New Mexico, students who are English Language Learners, and students with disabilities, the outcome has the potential to affect every student, teacher, and administrator in the state. The trial will begin on June 12th of 2017. When the case was originally filed in 2014, New Mexico’s Public Education Department (NMPED)—the defendants in this case—immediately countered with a motion to dismiss. In October of 2014, as First District Court Chief Judge Sarah Singleton rejected the motion to dismiss, she also used the opportunity to declare public education a fundamental right in New Mexico. Martinez v State of New Mexico (2014a) has the potential to transform not only the definition of equal protection and educational equity under the law, but also to correct the discriminatory and punitive practices of current reform agendas. The author examines the possibilities of law as a form of social resistance using Martinez v. State of New Mexico (2014a)—a legal case on school finance—and the concept of sufficient education as guaranteed by the New Mexico State Constitution.
The effects of low-intensity cycling on cognitive performance following sleep deprivation

This study examined the effect of 24h of sleep deprivation on cognitive performance and assessed the effect of acute exercise on cognitive performance following sleep deprivation. Young, active, healthy adults (n=24, 14 males) were randomized to control (age=24.7±3.7years, BMI=27.2±7.0) or exercise (age=25.3±3.3years, BMI=25.6±5.1) groups. Cognitive testing included a 5-min psychomotor vigilance task (PVT), three memory tasks with increasing cognitive load, and performance of the PVT a second time. On morning one, cognitive testing followed a typical night's sleep. Following 24-h of sustained wakefulness, cognitive testing was conducted again prior to and after the acute intervention. Participants in the exercise condition performed low-intensity cycling (∼40%HRR) for 15-min and those in the control condition sat quietly on the bike for 15-min. t-Tests revealed sleep deprivation negatively affected performance on the PVT, but did not affect memory performance. Following the acute intervention, there were no cognitive performance differences between the exercise and rested conditions. We provide support for previous literature suggesting that during simple tasks, sleep deprivation has negative effects on cognitive performance. Importantly, in contrast to previous literature which has shown multiple bouts of exercise adding to cognitive detriment when combined with sleep deprivation, our results did not reveal any further detriments to cognitive performance from a single-bout of exercise following sleep deprivation.
In-gap discounts in Medicare Part D and specialty drug use.

Objectives Specialty drugs can bring significant benefits to patients, but they can be expensive. Medicare Part D plans charge relatively high cost-sharing costs for specialty drugs. A provision in the Affordable Care Act reduced cost sharing in the Part D coverage gap phase in an attempt to mitigate the financial burden of beneficiaries with high drug spending. We examined the early impact of the Part D in-gap discount on specialty cancer drug use and patients' out-of-pocket (OOP) spending. Study design Natural experimental design. Methods We compared changes in outcomes before and after the in-gap discount among beneficiaries with and without low-income subsidies (LIS). Beneficiaries with LIS, who were not affected by the in-gap discount, made up the control group. We studied a random sample of elderly standalone prescription drug plan enrollees with relatively uncommon cancers (eg, leukemia, skin, pancreas, kidney, sarcomas, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma) between 2009 and 2013. We constructed 4 outcome variables annually: 1) use of any specialty cancer drug, 2) the number of specialty cancer drug fills, 3) total specialty drug spending, and 4) OOP spending for specialty cancer drugs. Results The in-gap discount did not influence specialty cancer drug use, but reduced annual OOP spending for specialty cancer drugs among users without LIS by $1108. Conclusions In-gap discounts in Part D decreased patients' financial burden to some extent, but resulted in no change in specialty drug use. As demand for specialty drugs increases, it will be important to ensure patients' access to needed drugs, while simultaneously reducing their financial burden.
Reversing Schmitt: The sovereign as a guardian of rational pluralism and the peculiarity of the Islamic state of exception in al-Juwaynī’s dialectical theology:

This study presents an Islamic conception of sovereignty from mainstream Sunni theology by closely examining Ghiyāth al-umam fī iltyāth aẓ-ẓulam, the major political work of Abū al-Ma‘ālī al-Juwayn...
Applying the "Unmotivated" Label to Clients in Social Service Agencies

rhis study, based on the responses of a sample of 245 public-sector social workers, explores the factors associated with labelling clients "unmotivated." The variables examined relate to clients, workers, agencies, and the interactions among these elements. Multiple regression analysis reveals that the best predictor variables are client-related. The client most likely to be rated by the social worker as lacking in motivation is of lower socioeconomic status and is perceived as believing that he or she does not require much professional intervention. The research supports the argument that clients who workers believe are unreceptive to their professional styles are likely to be labelled "unmotivated."
Long-Term Effects of an Intensive Lifestyle Intervention on Electrocardiographic Criteria for Left Ventricular Hypertrophy: The Look AHEAD Trial.

Background Left ventricular hypertrophy assessed by electrocardiography (ECG-LVH) is a marker of subclinical cardiac damage and a strong predictor of cardiovascular disease (CVD) events. The prevalence of ECG-LVH is increased in obesity and type 2 diabetes; however, there are no data on the long-term effects of weight loss on ECG-LVH. The purpose of this study was to determine whether an intensive lifestyle intervention (ILI) reduces ECG-LVH in overweight and obese adults with type 2 diabetes. Methods Data from 4,790 Look AHEAD participants (mean age: 58.8 ± 6.8 years, 63.2% White) who were randomized to a 10-year ILI (n = 2,406) or diabetes support and education (DSE, n = 2,384) were included. ECG-LVH defined by Cornell voltage criteria was assessed every 2 years. Longitudinal logistic regression analysis with generalized estimation equations and linear mixed models were used to compare the prevalence of ECG-LVH and changes in absolute Cornell voltage over time between intervention groups, with tests of interactions by sex, race/ethnicity, and baseline CVD status. Results The prevalence of ECG-LVH at baseline was 5.2% in the DSE group and 5.0% in the ILI group (P = 0.74). Over a median 9.5 years of follow-up, prevalent ECG-LVH increased similarly in both groups (odds ratio: 1.02, 95% confidence interval: 0.83-1.25; group × time interaction, P = 0.49). Increases in Cornell voltage during follow-up were also similar between intervention groups (group × time interaction, P = 0.57). Intervention effects were generally similar between subgroups of interest. Conclusions The Look AHEAD long-term lifestyle intervention does not significantly lower ECG-LVH in overweight and obese adults with type 2 diabetes. Clinical trials registration Trial Number NCT00017953 (ClinicalTrials.gov).
Intergenerational Mobility at the Top of the Educational Distribution

Research has shown that intergenerational mobility is higher among individuals with a college degree than those with lower levels of schooling. However, mobility declines among graduate degree hold...
A multidecade experiment shows that fertilization by salmon carcasses enhanced tree growth in the riparian zone

As they return to spawn and die in their natal streams, anadromous, semelparous fishes such as Pacific salmon import marine-derived nutrients to otherwise nutrient-poor freshwater and riparian ecosystems. Diverse organisms exploit this resource, and previous studies have indicated that riparian tree growth may be enhanced by such marine-derived nutrients. However, these studies were largely inferential and did not account for all factors affecting tree growth. As an experimental test of the contribution of carcasses to tree growth, for 20 yr, we systematically deposited all sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) carcasses (217,055 individual salmon) in the riparian zone on one bank of a 2-km-long stream in southwestern Alaska, reducing carcass accumulation on one bank and enhancing it on the other. After accounting for partial consumption and movement of carcasses by brown bears (Ursus arctos) and variation in salmon abundance and body size, we estimated that 267,620 kg of salmon were deposited on the enhanced bank and 45,200 kg on the depleted bank over the 20 yr, for a 5.9-fold difference in total mass. In 2016, we sampled needles of 84 white spruce trees (Picea glauca) the dominant riparian tree species, for foliar nitrogen (N) content and stable isotope ratios (δ15 N), and took core samples for annual growth increments. Stable isotope analysis indicated that marine-derived N was incorporated into the new growth of the trees on the enhanced bank. Analysis of tree cores indicated that in the two decades prior to our enhancement experiment, trees on the south-facing (subsequently the depleted) bank grew faster than those on the north-facing (later enhanced) bank. This difference was reduced significantly during the two decades of fertilization, indicating an effect of the carcass transfer experiment against the background of other factors affecting tree growth.
Toxoplasma gondii gene products involved in the activation of the rat NLRP1 inflammasome (MPF4P.729)

Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular parasite, capable of infecting all warm-blooded animals. Upon infection of a host, Toxoplasma converts into cysts in brain and muscle tissue and establishes a life-long chronic infection. Rats, like humans, are resistant, surviving infection with high doses of mouse-virulent Toxoplasma strains. The Lewis rat is unique in its ability to completely clear infection and prevent cyst formation. We have previously shown that Toxoplasma -infected Lewis rat macrophages undergo rapid NLRP1-mediated pyroptosis. We hypothesize that this rapid cell death is a host mechanism to prevent parasite replication and dissemination to the brain and muscle tissues. Using a chemical mutagenesis screen, we have isolated several independent Toxoplasma mutants that fail to induce macrophage death and identified their mutations using whole genome sequencing. Using CRISPR/Cas9-mediated deletion of candidate genes, we have identified three Toxoplasma genes that contribute to macrophage pyroptosis. Parasites lacking these genes induce significantly less inflammasome activation, as measured by active IL-1β and pyroptosis, and are able to replicate within Lewis macrophages. We are determining if these mutants are able to form cysts in Lewis rats. Using biochemical techniques, we are probing the function of these individual parasite proteins and how they each contribute to NLRP1 activation.
Intensivists in U.S. Acute Care Hospitals

OBJECTIVES To determine the total numbers of privileged and full-time equivalent intensivists in acute care hospitals with intensivists and compare the characteristics of hospitals with and without intensivists. DESIGN Retrospective analysis of the American Hospital Association Annual Survey Database (Fiscal Year 2015). SETTING Two-thousand eight-hundred fourteen acute care hospitals with ICU beds. PATIENTS None. INTERVENTIONS None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Of the 2,814 acute care hospitals studied, 1,469 (52%) had intensivists and 1,345 (48%) had no intensivists. There were 28,808 privileged and 19,996 full-time equivalent intensivists in the 1,469 hospitals with intensivists. In these hospitals, the median (25-75th percentile) numbers of privileged and full-time equivalent intensivists were 11 (5-24) and 7 (2-17), respectively. Compared with hospitals without intensivists, hospitals with privileged intensivists were primarily located in metropolitan areas (91% vs 50%; p < 0.001) and at the aggregate level had nearly thrice the number of hospital beds (403,522 [75%] vs 137,146 [25%]), 3.6 times the number of ICU beds (74,222 [78%] vs 20,615 [22%]), and almost twice as many ICUs (3,383 [65%] vs 1,846 [35%]). At the hospital level, hospitals with privileged intensivists had significantly more hospital beds (median, 213 vs 68; p < 0.0001), ICU beds (median, 32 vs 8; p < 0.0001), a higher ratio of ICU to hospital beds (15.6% vs 12.6%; p < 0.0001), and a higher number of ICUs per hospital (2 vs 1; p < 0.0001) than hospitals without intensivists. CONCLUSIONS Analyzing the intensivist section of the American Hospital Association Annual Survey database is a novel approach to estimating the numbers of privileged and full-time equivalent intensivists in acute care hospitals with ICU beds in the United States. This methodology opens the door to an enhanced understanding of the current supply and distribution of intensivists as well as future research into the intensivist workforce.
Determining remote sensing spatial resolution requirements for the monitoring of harmful algal blooms in the Great Lakes

Abstract Harmful algal blooms (HABs) have become a major health and environmental concern in the Great Lakes. In 2014, severe HABs prompted the State of Ohio to request NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) to assist with monitoring algal blooms in Lake Erie. The most notable species of HAB is Microcystis aeruginosa, a hepatotoxin producing cyanobacteria that is responsible for liver complications for humans and other fauna that come in contact with these blooms. NASA GRC conducts semiweekly flights in order to gather up-to-date imagery regarding the blooms' spatial extents and concentrations. Airborne hyperspectral imagery is collected using two hyperspectral imagers, HSI-2 and HSI-3. Hyperspectral imagery is necessary in order to conduct experiments on differentiation of algal bloom types based on their spectral reflectance. In this analysis, imagery from September 19, 2016 was utilized to study the subpixel variability within the footprint of arbitrary sized pixels using several analysis techniques. This particular data set is utilized because it represents a worst case scenario where there is significant potential for public health concern due to high concentrations of microcystin toxin found in the water on this day and the concurrent observational challenges to accurately measure the algal bloom concentration variability with a remote sensing system due to the blooms high spatial variability. It has been determined that the optimal spatial resolution to monitor algal blooms in the Great Lakes is at most 50 m, and for much lower error 25 m, thus allowing for greater ease in identifying high concentration blooms near the surface. This resolution provides the best sensitivity to high concentration areas that are of significant importance in regard to human health and ecological damage.
An accelerated testing protocol for assessing microbially induced concrete deterioration during the bacterial attachment phase

Abstract This paper presents a test procedure that has been developed to specifically aim at assessing the performance of cementitious materials and antimicrobial additives during the bacterial attachment phase (Stage 2) of Microbially Induced Corrosion of Concrete (MICC). The test controls the pH associated with Stage 2 of MICC by using neutrophilic sulfur-oxidizing bacteria. The pH, sulfate concentration, optical density of the exposure solution, and microscopic observations on paste samples were used to assess microbial colonization. Paste deterioration and effectiveness of admixed and/or topically applied antimicrobial additives were evaluated by investigating the reduction in flexural strength, calcium leaching, and microstructural changes. It was shown that the proposed method is practical, realistic, and safe, and captures the effectiveness of antimicrobial additives during the bacterial attachment phase of MICC.
N-Terminal Acetylation Affects α-Synuclein Fibril Polymorphism.

Parkinson’s disease etiology involves amyloid formation by α-synuclein (αSyn). In vivo, αSyn is constitutively acetylated at the α-amino N-terminus. Here, we find N-terminally acetylated αSyn (Ac-α...
Terrestrial modification of the Ivuna meteorite and a reassessment of the chemical composition of the CI type specimen

Abstract The rare CI carbonaceous chondrites are the most aqueously altered and chemically primitive meteorites but due to their porous nature and high abundance of volatile elements are susceptible to terrestrial weathering. The Ivuna meteorite, type specimen for the CI chondrites, is the largest twentieth-century CI fall and probably the CI chondrite least affected by terrestrial alteration that is available for study. The main mass of Ivuna (BM2008 M1) has been stored in a nitrogen atmosphere at least since its arrival at the Natural History Museum (NHM), London, in 2008 (70 years after its fall) and could be considered the most pristine CI chondrite stone. We report the mineralogy, petrography and bulk elemental composition of BM2008 M1 and a second Ivuna stone (BM1996 M4) stored in air within wooden cabinets. We find that both Ivuna stones are breccias consisting of multiple rounded, phyllosilicate-rich clasts that formed through aqueous alteration followed by impact processing. A polished thin section of BM2008 M1 analysed immediately after preparation was found to contain sulphate-bearing veins that formed when primary sulphides reacted with oxygen and atmospheric water. A section of BM1996 M4 lacked veins but had sulphate grains on the surface that formed in ≤6 years, ∼3 times faster than previous reports for CI chondrite sections. Differences in the extent of terrestrial alteration recorded by BM2008 M1 and BM1996 M4 probably reflect variations in the post-recovery curation history of the stones prior to entering the NHM collection, and indicate that where possible pristine samples of hydrated carbonaceous should be kept out of the terrestrial environment in a stable atmosphere to avoid modification. The bulk elemental composition of the two Ivuna stones show some variability due to their heterogeneous nature but in general are similar to previous analyses of CI chondrites. We combine our elemental abundances with literature values to calculate a new average composition for the Ivuna meteorite, which we find is in good agreement with existing compilations of element compositions in the CI chondrites and the most recent solar photospheric abundances.
Modifications to the ISO 9186 Method for Testing Comprehension of Visualizations: Successes and Lessons Learned

Information visualizations are an increasingly popular approach to conveying information in a way that eases comprehension. However, rigorous methods for comprehension testing are needed for evaluation purposes. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9186 method is the recognized standard for assessing comprehensibility of wayfinding and warning symbols but requires modification to maximize its utility for complex, health-related visualizations and low-literacy respondents. In this paper we present two case studies of research protocols deployed in health-related contexts that made modifications to the ISO 9186 method. Details of the modifications are provided. We describe successes and lessons learned as well as recommendations for future studies. Instructions that encouraged participants to give details as well as non-leading prompts for additional information helped elicit responses with sufficient granularity to make unambiguous judgments about participants’ level of comprehension.
Instant polarized light microscopy for real-time wide-field visualization of collagen architecture

Collagen fiber architecture plays an important role in the mechanical properties of soft tissues. Conventional polarized light microscopy done using linear polarizers and, sometimes, quarter-wave plates is a label-free imaging technique for quantifying collagen fiber architecture, specifically distribution and orientation. However, this technique has several limitations. First, it requires acquiring multiple images with different polarization states, which precludes many timesensitive applications. Second, post-processing, especially image registration, reduces the level of detail discernible. Third, the added optical elements may cause glare under coaxial illumination, thus complicating the use of reflected light microscopy. We have recently demonstrated instant polarized light microscopy (IPOL), that requires only one image and therefore no registration. IPOL utilizes wavelength-dependent polarization to modify the spectrum of the illumination, generating visible colors that depend on fiber orientation and density. Herein we present two further advances on IPOL: we extend it to work with coaxial illumination allowing transmitted and reflected light microscopy, and we integrate it in a dissecting microscope. This permits real-time imaging, limited only by the camera frame rate, making it possible to track dynamic events, such as fast-acting responses to external forces or moving objects. We demonstrate IPOL with a field of view of 11 mm and a long working distance of 65 mm, which simplifies testing of large samples. IPOL provides both fiber distribution and orientation information in a single true-color snapshot, and therefore, it is suitable for time-sensitive applications.
Should we Routinely Reverse Neuromuscular Blockade with Sugammadex in Patients with a History of Heart Transplantation

Cases of cardiac arrest after administration of neostigmine as a neuromuscular reversal agent have been reported in the literature. Sugammadex is a new neuromuscular reversal agent that acts via a different mechanism than acetylcholinesterase inhibitors. Here we reviewed the currently available literature on the use of sugammadex and potential considerations of using sugammadex in patients with a history of heart transplantation. Based on our currently available information, sugammadex administration in heart transplant patients should warrant similar caution and preparation for cardiovascular collapse as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors.
Longitudinal examination of perceived stress and academic performance of first-year student pharmacists.

Abstract Introduction First-year pharmacy students (P1s) may experience a number of stressors that may affect academic performance due to the transition into a professional program. Study objectives were to evaluate student demographic and pre-pharmacy factors associated with perceived stress among P1s, analyze relative change in perceived stress over the P1 year, and assess associations between perceived stress and academic performance. Methods The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) was administered three times to P1s: during orientation, midpoint of fall semester, and midpoint of spring semester. Data were also collected using school records, including demographics, P1 fall grade point average (GPA), P1 spring GPA, and P1 year GPA. Paired-sample t-tests, independent samples t-tests, Analysis of Variance, correlational analysis, and multiple linear regression were conducted. Results Of 202 P1s, 201 (99.5%) completed the orientation survey administration and 110 (54.5%) completed all three administrations. PSS-10 score significantly increased across survey administrations. Differences in PSS-10 scores at orientation were noted based on gender and race/ethnicity (P Conclusions Perceived stress increased over the P1 year, and higher perceived stress was associated with lower P1 academic performance. Future studies should examine strategies to assist P1s in managing stress.
THE BODY OF HIERARCHY: HAND GESTURES ON CLASSIC MAYA CERAMICS AND THEIR SOCIAL SIGNIFICANCE

Classic Maya (a.d. 250–900) art is filled with expressive figures in a variety of highly stylized poses and postures. These poses are so specific that they appear to be intentionally communicative, yet their meanings remain elusive. A few studies have scratched the surface of this issue, suggesting that a correlation exists between body language and social roles in Maya art. The present study examines whether one type of body language (hand gestures) in Classic Maya art represents and reflects elements of social structure. This analysis uses a coding approach derived from studies of hand gesture in conversation to apply an interactional approach to a static medium, thereby broadening the methods used to analyze gesture in ancient art. Statistics are used to evaluate patterns of gesture use in palace scenes across 289 figures on 94 different vases, with results indicating that the form and angling of gestures are related to social hierarchy. Furthermore, this study considers not just the individual status of each figure, but the interaction between figures. The results not only shed light on how gesture was depicted in Maya art, but also demonstrate how figural representation reflects social structure.
Comparative genomics of pyrophilous fungi reveals a link between fire events and developmental genes

Forest fires generate a large amount of carbon that remains resident on the site as dead and partially 'pyrolysed' (i.e. burnt) material that has long residency times and constitutes a significant pool in fire-prone ecosystems. In addition, fire-induced hydrophobic soil layers, caused by condensation of pyrolysed waxes and lipids, increase post-fire erosion and can lead to long-term productivity losses. A small set of pyrophilous fungi dominate post-fire soils and are likely to be involved with the degradation of all these compounds, yet almost nothing is currently known about what these fungi do or the metabolic processes they employ. In this study, we sequenced and analysed genomes from fungi isolated after Rim fire near Yosemite National Park in 2013 and showed the enrichment/expansion of CAZymes and families known to be involved in fruiting body initiation when compared to other basidiomycete fungi. We found gene families potentially involved in the degradation of the hydrophobic layer and pyrolysed organic matter, such as hydrophobic surface binding proteins, laccases (AA1_1), xylanases (GH10, GH11), fatty acid desaturases and tannases. Thus, pyrophilous fungi are important actors to restate the soil's functional capabilities.
An Evidence-Based Framework for Implementation of a School-Community Partnership.

School–community partnerships (SCPs) are collaborative efforts between schools and community organizations geared toward improving the health of school-age children through care coordination. These...
How do tax-based revitalisation policies affect urban property development? Evidence from Bronzeville, Chicago:

Fiscal incentives are frequently used to stimulate property development in distressed communities but the efficacy and impacts of this approach have been contested. In this study, a theory of real ...
Growth and reproductive rates of the dominant copepod Pseudodiaptomus forbesi in response to environmental factors and habitat type in the northern San Francisco Estuary

We examined growth and egg production rates of Pseudodiaptomus forbesi (Copepoda: Calanoida) in the northern San Francisco Estuary (SFE), California, USA. Data from several earlier studies were combined with new data to assess the responses of these vital rates to environmental factors. We measured 118 growth rates of early copepodites (C1–C3) and 191 egg production rates (EPRs) during spring–autumn of 10 years between 2006 and 2018. Samples were taken from four habitat types: brackish open water, fresh open water, wetland, and tidal channel. Growth rates averaged 0.21 d−1 (range 0–0.53 d−1), while EPR averaged 2.4 eggs ♀−1 d−1 (range 0–11 eggs ♀−1 d−1). Mass-specific EPR of females averaged about 20% of copepodite growth rate, meaning that specific egg production rate is not a suitable proxy for specific growth rate of this species. A rectangular hyperbola predicted 24% of the variation in growth rate from chlorophyll concentration and 19% of the variation in EPR (28% with habitat type as a covariate). Most of the chlorophyll values were below levels where growth rate or EPR approach their maxima. Lipid composition in a subset of samples gave no better prediction of growth rate than chlorophyll and was unrelated to EPR. Growth and reproduction of P. forbesi were food-limited most of the time, particularly in the open-water habitats. Despite high variability, these measurements make clear that the chronically low primary production in the northern SFE imposes limits on the food web supporting declining fish populations.
The Impact of Discriminatory Stress on Changes in Posttraumatic Stress Severity at the Intersection of Race/Ethnicity and Gender

Given the diversity of military veterans and growing evidence of ethnoracial disparities in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) within this population, elucidating the role of discrimination-related stress in contributing to these disparities is crucial. We examined the relative impact of discriminatory stress (i.e., due to race/ethnicity, religion, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, or physical appearance) on 6-month changes in PTSD symptom severity among trauma-exposed White (74%), Black (11%) and Hispanic/Latino/a/x (15%) veterans (17% female). PTSD symptoms were measured with the 8-item PTSD Checklist for DSM-5. A measure of the extent to which discrimination has caused stress for the respondent assessed discriminatory stress. Hierarchical regression analyses examined interactions among race/ethnicity, gender and discriminatory stress in predicting six-month changes in PTSD severity. Black and Hispanic/Latino/a/x veterans reported higher baseline PTSD severity and discriminatory stress than White veterans, with some variation by gender. Three-way interactions of race/ethnicity by discriminatory stress by gender were significant, controlling for income, education and age. The relationship between discriminatory stress and increases in PTSD severity was significantly stronger for Black women compared with Black men and did not differ between White men and women. There was also a stronger relationship between discriminatory stress and increases in PTSD severity for Hispanic/Latino/x men as compared to Black men. These findings suggest that discriminatory stress impacts PTSD severity differentially for various ethnoracial/gender groups and highlight the value of applying an intersectional framework that accounts for the synergistic connections among multiple identities to future screening, intervention, and research efforts.
Microcephaly: Zika and other congenital infections

Abstract Microcephaly is associated with congenital infections by a variety of infectious agents. The pathophysiology and clinical presentation of microcephaly caused by these agents are examined, concentrating on features of four infectious agents (Zika virus, cytomegalovirus, rubella virus, and Toxoplasma gondii). The association of fetal congenital infections by these agents with fetal brain disruption sequence is reviewed.
Integrating online community support into outpatient breast cancer care: Mayo Clinic Connect online platform.

IntroductionMayo Clinic Connect is an online community of over 100,000 members who support each other through sharing lived experience when facing and managing new diagnoses. The community is moder...
Ammonia Nitrogen Losses from Streams

Preliminary results of an investigation of gaseous ammonia nitrogen losses induced by surface turbulence in rivers and streams are presented and the potential significance of this method of nitrogen loss in reducing fertilization of downstream receiving waters is described. Rate constants for ammonia nitrogen loss are given and the variation of these constants with pH and temperature is indicated.