cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Diet composition of the smooth dogfish (Mustelus canis) in the waters of Long Island, New York, USA

ABSTRACTMustelus canis, one of two species in the genus Mustelus found along the Northwest Atlantic coast and the second most abundant shark in the region, is beginning to comprise large portions of by-catch in various commercial fishing industries. This study analysed the gut contents of sharks taken from three locations in Long Island, NY (Long Beach, Shelter Island and Gardiners Bay) to examine sex- and site-specific diet composition. Our study indicates that smooth dogfish in these waters are opportunistic predators, showing a preference for crustaceans (i.e. Cancer irroratus, Libinia spp., Squilla empusa and Upogebia affinis). Dietary niche breadth was found to vary significantly and niche overlap was moderately low between sexes and between sites. While dietary components of M. canis discovered in this study corroborate other studies performed within the Northwestern Atlantic migratory range of M. canis, smooth dogfish diet varies considerably with region and time of year. Thus, future studies shoul...
Women and pain

The findings from research studies done to date on gender differences in responses to painful stimuli and analgesic medications suggest that men and women do respond differently to both pain and pain medication. Clinicians need to be mindful of these gender differences as they plan the care of a man or woman who is experiencing pain. Pain assessments and management strategies must be focused on the individual experiencing the pain. However, determining the mechanisms underlying the gender differences found in the studies summarized in this paper may provide insight into the use of different assessment tools and pain management strategies for men and women.
Active binaural localization of multiple sound sources

Sound source localization serves as a significant capability of autonomous robots that conduct missions such as search and rescue, and target tracking in challenging environments. However, localization of multiple sound sources and static sound source tracking in self-motion are both difficult tasks, especially when the number of sound sources or reflections increase. This study presents two robotic hearing approaches based on a human perception model (Wallach, 1939) that combines interaural time difference (ITD) and head turn motion data to locate sound sources. The first method uses a fitting-based approach to recognize the changing trends of the cross-correlation function of binaural inputs. The effectiveness of this method was validated using data collected from a two-microphone array rotating in a non-anechoic environment, and the experiments reveal its ability to separate and localize up to three sound sources of the same spectral content (white noise) at different azimuth and elevation angles. The second method uses an extended Kalman filter (EKF) that estimates the orientation of a sound source by fusing the robot's self-motion and ITD data to reduce the localization errors recursively. This method requires limited memory resources and is able to keep tracking the relative position change of a number of static sources when the robot moves. In the experiments, up to three sources can be tracked simultaneously with a two-microphone array. Sound source localization methods based on robot head motion and ITD data are proposed.Multiple sources with overlapping spectra are localized with binaural inputs in non-anechoic spaces.The data fitting method separates the sources based on correlogram changing patterns.An EKF is established for each sound source to keep track of it during self-motion.
Cigarette Purchasing Patterns, Readiness to Quit, and Quit Attempts Among Homeless Smokers.

Introduction Cigarette purchasing patterns may be linked with greater readiness to make a quit attempt and more quit attempts among domiciled samples. However, little is known about the cigarette purchasing patterns of homeless smokers or their potential relations to quitting intention and behaviors. This study redressed this gap among a convenience sample of homeless adult smokers from a large shelter in Dallas, Texas. Methods Participants (N = 207; Mage = 43; 71.5% male) smoked ≥100 cigarettes over the lifetime and endorsed current daily smoking. Variables assessed included cigarette dependence (time to first cigarette of the day), monthly income, quantity of cigarettes most recently purchased, average money spent on cigarettes weekly, readiness/motivation to quit smoking, and the number intentional quit attempts lasting ≥24h in the past year. Regression analyses were conducted to characterize associations of cigarette purchasing patterns with readiness to quit and quit attempts controlling for sex, age, cigarette dependence, and income. Results Most participants purchased cigarettes by the pack (61.4%), and more than half the sample spent ≤$20 on cigarettes per week. Results indicated that spending less money per week on cigarettes was associated with greater readiness to quit (P = .016), even when controlling for income, cigarette dependence, and other covariates. Stratified analyses indicated that this association was significant only for homeless smokers reporting no regular monthly income. Conclusions Homeless daily smokers with no reported income who spend little money on cigarettes may make particularly apt targets for cessation interventions due to potential associations with quitting motivation. Implications Adults who are homeless smoke at greater rates and quit at lower rates than domiciled adults, leading to significant smoking-related health disparities among this group. Findings suggest that cigarette purchasing patterns are linked with readiness to quit smoking among smokers who are homeless. Results elucidate one of the myriad factors that contribute to tobacco-related disparities among this group and findings may have implications for cessation interventions in homeless shelters and other contexts where resources are limited.
Power-Performance Optimal DSP Architectures and ASIC Implementation

A hierarchical, sensitivity-based ASIC design methodology is proposed and demonstrated in the implementation of power-performance optimal signal processing kernels for wireless applications. The design approach uses a systematic exploration of the power-performance design tradeoff space at the architecture, micro-architecture, and circuit levels. Energy-efficiency gains achieved via this methodology are exploited to accommodate flexibility to support multi-standard radio architectures. The methodology is exemplified in the selection of architecture and design of a flexible digital finite impulse response (FIR) filter. The flexible FIR filter consumes area and power that is only 2 to 4 times that of a dedicated ASIC FIR.
Potential Applications of Latent Semantic Analysis to Writing Analysis

Manually analysing and evaluating writing can be a time consuming, difficult, subjective and sometimes error-prone task. Latent Semantic Analysis (LSA) provides a new technique for performing a variety of useful semantic analyses. LSA serves both as an approximate psychological theory of aspects of human word and passage meaning and as a practical tool for research and applications. It can evaluate the conceptual content of writing, including, the kind, quality and quantity of semantic information expressed and the conceptual coherence of arguments presented. In this chapter we provide an overview of LSA and then discuss four techniques for performing automatic analysis of the content of written information using LSA, both from the standpoint of teaching expository writing and from the standpoint of its analysis.
Practical technologies for irrigation flow control and measurement

Practical technologies can encourage farmers to adopt practices that support sustainable irrigated agriculture. Important among these are convenient water measurement and control techniques. Many simple constructions or operating procedures are available that can bring considerable convenience to farmers and irrigation delivery system operators. Some are new technologies and some are improvements on older technologies. Many can be implemented with small expense. Some are superior replacements for current practices. The techniques and devices discussed included: (a) accurate and convenient zero setting for weirs and flumes (b) pressure-transducer field checks, (c) easy-to-use scales for orifice and Venturi meters, (d) flow-profile improvers to assist accurate meter operations in irrigation pipelines, (e) floor sills and wave suppressors for canals that usually flow at variable depths of flow, (f) water surface slope measurements–based on static-pressure tubes, and (g) field checks of flow velocity profiles to evaluate flow conditioning using rising-bubble techniques for flow-profile visualization. Many of the concepts are demonstrated in a summary illustration showing several items in a typical stilling well and broad-crested weir (long-throated flume) that need attention, and offers suggestions for correcting the deficiencies.
Kinetics of C2H Reactions with Hydrocarbons and Nitriles in the 104-296 K Temperature Range

Reactions of C 2 H with isobutane (k 1 ), 1-butene (k 2 ), isobutylene (k 3 ), 1,3-butadiene (k4), methyl cyanide (k 5 ), ethyl cyanide (k 6 ), and propyl cyanide (k 7 ) are studied at low temperature using a pulsed Laval nozzleapparatus. The C 2 H radical is prepared by 193-nm photolysis of acetylene, and the C 2 H concentration is monitored using CH(A 2 Δ) chemiluminescence from the C 2 H + O 2 reaction. The rate constants at low and high temperatures are k 1 = (1.3 ′ 0.3) x 10 - 1 0 and (1.0 ′ 0.2) x 10 - 1 0 for isobutane, k 2 = (2.1 ′ 0.4) x 10 - 1 0 and (2.2 ′ 0.4) × 10 - 1 0 for 1-butene, k 3 = (1.4 ′ 0.3) x 10 - 1 0 and (1.2 ′ 0.2) x 10 - 1 0 for isobutylene, and k4 = (2.9 ′ 0.6) x 10 - 1 0 and (3.3 ′ 0.6) x 10 - 1 0 for 1,3-butadiene at T = 104 and 296 K, respectively (in units of cm 3 molecule - 1 s - 1 ) Comparison with existing data shows a trend of a decrease in activation energy with increasing size of the hydrocarbon chain. For these reactions of hydrocarbons containing four carbon atoms, the activation energy is zero within experimental uncertainty, and the rate constants do not depend on temperature in the 104-296 K temperature range. The rate constants for C 2 H reactions with methyl cyanide, ethyl cyanide, and propyl cyanide are measured at three temperatures, 104, 165, and 298 K. Measured rate constants are fit to an Arrhenius expression and are k 5 = (1.8 ′ 0.35) x 10 - 1 1 exp(-766 ′ 38/T), k 6 = (1.5 ′ 0.3) × 10 - 1 1 exp(-145 ′ 10/T), and k 7 = (2.1 ′ 0.4) × 10 - 1 1 exp(-51 ′ 4/T) (in units of cm 3 molecule - 1 s - 1 , T is in Kelvin). At T = 296 K, k 3 , k 5 , k 6 , and k 7 are measured as a function of total pressure and show no pressure dependence in the 0.6-8 Torr (0.08-1.07 kPa) pressure range. Results from this work are compared with the results of previous investigations of C 2 H reactions at low temperature and are discussed in relation to the atmospheres of Saturn and Titan.
Evaluation of Early Versus Late Postdischarge Medication Reconciliation on Readmission Rates and Emergency Department Visits.

Background:The current literature speculates ideal postdischarge follow-up focusing on transitions from hospital to home can range anywhere between 48 hours and 2 weeks. However, there is a lack of evidence regarding the optimal timing of follow-up visit to prevent readmissions.Objective:The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of early (<48 hours) versus late (48 hours-14 days) postdischarge medication reconciliation on readmissions and emergency department (ED) use.Methods:In this retrospective study, data for patients who had a clinic visit with a primary care provider (PCP), clinical pharmacist, or both for postdischarge medication reconciliation were reviewed. Primary outcome included hospital use rate at 30 days. Secondary outcomes included hospital use rate at 90 days and hospital use rate with a postdischarge PCP follow-up visit, clinical pharmacist, or both at 30 days.Results:One hundred sixty patients were included in the analysis: 31 early group patients and 129 late group patients. ...
In vitro evaluation of surface properties of Pro Seal® and Opal® SealTM in preventing white spot lesions.

Structured AbstractObjectives To evaluate the surface properties of two commercially available sealants (Pro Seal® (PS) and Opal® SealTM (OS)) in terms of fluoride(F) release, biofilm formation of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus and the ability to resist acid penetration. Setting University of Nebraska Medical Center. Material & Methods Discs of similar diameter and thickness were made from OS and PS. Discs were soaked in double-distilled water, and F released was measured with fluoride meter daily for 14 consecutive days, then at 21 and 28 days. Biofilm formation was evaluated with Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacilli grown on sealant discs using confocal microscopy. Extracted human teeth (n=8) with sealant-coated buccal surfaces and untreated lingual surfaces were exposed to 0.1M lactic acid(pH=4.5) to test the acid penetration. After 1-4 weeks of exposure, teeth were subjected to microhardness testing and SEM microscopy. Results PS released significantly higher levels of F than OS. PS showed more S. mutans adherence than OS, whereas Lactobacillus did not show any differences in adherence. Both sealants protected enamel surfaces, showing statistically significant difference in the depth of acid penetration compared to their unsealed control sides. Conclusion F release was adequate to aid in remineralization, although clinically it would not likely aid in preventing demineralization as there was no prolonged release of F by both sealants tested. S. mutans adherence to OS surface was less compared to PS surface, which could be of relevance in biofilm formation and white spot lesions. Both sealants protected enamel surfaces from acid penetration.
Continuation of non-essential medications in actively dying hospitalised patients.

Objective The objective of this analysis was to examine the use of 11 non-essential medications in actively dying patients. Methods This was a planned secondary analysis of data from the Best Practices for End-of-Life Care for Our Nation’s Veterans trial, a multicentre implementation trial of an intervention to improve processes of end-of-life care in inpatient settings. Supported with an electronic comfort care decision support tool, intervention included training hospital staff to identify actively dying patients, communicate the prognosis to patients/families and implement best practices of traditionally home-based hospice care. Data on medication use before and after intervention were derived from electronic medical records of 5476 deceased veterans. Results Five non-essential medications, clopidogrel, donepezil, glyburide, metformin and propoxyphene, were ordered in less than 5% of cases. More common were orders for simvastatin (15.8%/15.1%), calcium tablets (8.4%/7.9%), multivitamins (11.6%/10.8%), ferrous sulfate (9.1%/7.6%), diphenhydramine (7.2%/5.1%) and subcutaneous heparin (29.9%/27.5%). Significant decreases were found for donepezil (2.5%/1.3%; p=0.001), propoxyphene (0.8%/0.1%; p=0.001), metformin (0.8%/0.3%; p=0.007) and multivitamins (11.6%/10.8%; p=0.01). Orders for one or more non-essential medications were less likely to occur in association with palliative care consultation (adjusted OR (AOR)=0.64, p Conclusions Non-essential medications continue to be administered to actively dying patients. Discontinuation of these medications may be facilitated by interventions that enhance recognition and consideration of patients’ actively dying status.
Atypical Skeletal Muscle Profiles in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Asymptomatic Middle-Aged Adults.

Background Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals are at increased risk of age-associated functional impairment, even with effective antiretroviral therapy (ART). A concurrent characterization of skeletal muscle, physical function, and immune phenotype in aviremic middle-aged HIV-infected adults represents a knowledge gap in prognostic biomarker discovery. Methods We undertook a prospective observational study of 170 middle-aged, HIV-infected ambulatory men and women with CD4+ T-cell counts of at least 350/µL and undetectable plasma viremia while on effective ART, and uninfected control participants. We measured biomarkers for inflammation and immune activation, fatigue, the Veterans Aging Cohort Study mortality index, and physical function. A subset also received a skeletal muscle biopsy and computed tomography scan. Results Compared to the uninfected participants, HIV-infected participants displayed increased immune activation (P < .001), inflammation (P = .001), and fatigue (P = .010), and in a regression model adjusting for age and sex displayed deficits in stair-climb power (P < .001), gait speed (P = .036), and predicted metabolic equivalents (P = .019). Skeletal muscle displayed reduced nuclear peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator 1α-positive myonuclei (P = .006), and increased internalized myonuclei (P < .001) that correlated with immune activation (P = .003) and leukocyte infiltration (P < .001). Internalized myonuclei improved a model for HIV discrimination, increasing the C-statistic from 0.84 to 0.90. Conclusions Asymptomatic HIV-infected middle-aged adults display atypical skeletal muscle profiles, subclinical deficits in physical function, and persistent inflammation and immune activation. Identifying biomarker profiles for muscle dysregulation and risk for future functional decline in the HIV-infected population will be key to developing and monitoring preventive interventions. Clinical Trials Registration NCT03011957.
Diversity and network coded 5G fronthaul wireless networks for ultra reliable and low latency communications

This paper is directed towards improving both throughput and reliability of 5G wireless Cloud Radio Access Networks (C-RANs) by the synergistic combination of Diversity Coding and Network Coding (DC-NC). In this paper, we directly apply the concept of DC-NC coding to two network scenarios: first, remote radio heads in a CRAN connected to the baseband unit in two hierarchical tiers with optical and wireless fronthaul links, second, most remote radio heads are connected directly to the baseband unit via wireless links. Our results show that the combination of Diversity and Network Coding increases the throughput of fronthaul networks for downlink broadcasting or multicasting applications, while enabling reliable networking with near-instant latency in fault recovery by using forward error control across spatially diverse paths. Moreover, the number of redundant links inherent in Diversity Coding can be decreased using the proposed scheme.
Associations between history of chronic lung disease and non-small cell lung carcinoma in Maryland: variations by sex and race.

Abstract Purpose Lung cancer is a multifactorial malignancy for which some risk factors, such as chronic lung diseases, their interactions with smoking, and how they differ by race and sex, are not fully understood. We investigated the associations between chronic inflammatory lung disease and non–small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) and how sex and race may affect such associations. Methods Using logistic regression, we analyzed 1660 lung cancer cases and 1959 population controls and estimated adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results Chronic lung disease was significantly associated with higher odds of having NSCLC in never (AOR = 1.99; 95% CI = 1.19–3.34), former (AOR = 1.68; 95% CI = 1.29–2.20), and current smokers (AOR = 2.40; 95% CI = 1.62–3.57), after adjustment for relevant covariates. For each 5-year increment in chronic lung disease duration, the risk of lung cancer increased only among females (AOR = 1.07; 95% CI = 1.02–1.13). Females, but not males, with asthma were at risk for NSCLC (AOR = 2.08; 95% CI = 1.40–3.10). Conclusions This study provides support for chronic lung inflammation as a potential contributing factor to lung cancer risk and possible sex difference in the inflammatory events underlying disease mechanisms.
Achieving Super-Resolution With Redundant Sensing

Objective : A new technique is presented to enhance the precision of the analog-to-digital (AD) and digital-to-analog (DA) conversion, which are fundamental operations of many biomedical information processing systems. In practice, the precision of these operations is always bounded, first by the random mismatch error occurred during system implementation, and subsequently by the intrinsic quantization error determined by the system architecture itself. Methods : Here, we derive a new mathematical interpretation of the previously proposed redundant sensing architecture that not only suppresses mismatch error but also allows achieving an effective resolution exceeding the system's intrinsic resolution, i.e., super-resolution (SR). SR is enabled by an endogenous property of redundant structures regarded as “code diffusion” where the references’ value spreads into the neighbor sample space as a result of mismatch error. Results : Using Monte Carlo methods, we show a profound theoretical increase of 8–9 b effective resolution or 256–512× enhancement of precision on a 10-b device at 95% sample space. Conclusion : The proposed SR mechanism can be applied to substantially improve the precision of various AD and DA conversion processes beyond the system resource constraints. Significance : The concept opens the possibility for a wide range of applications in low-power fully integrated sensors and devices where the cost-accuracy tradeoff is inevitable. As a proof-of-concept demonstration, we point out an example where the proposed technique can be used to enhance the precision of an implantable neurostimulator design.
Proof by Poem: The RSA Encryption Algorithm

(2002). Proof by Poem: The RSA Encryption Algorithm. Mathematics Magazine: Vol. 75, No. 4, pp. 255-255.
Does the Macro Matter in Macro-Finance Term Structure Models?

In a simple macro-finance term structure (MFTS) model with macroeconomic variables as risk factors, it matters little whether an econometrician has a strong prior on a particular macroeconomic model. I show in a Monte Carlo experiment that econometricians with drastically different priors will reach similar conclusions on 1) parameters of the price of risk, 2) time series properties of risk premia and price of risk, and 3) impulse responses of the price of risk to macroeconomic shocks. The results imply that the choice of a macroeconomic model is immaterial to MFTS models, and a reduced-form VAR with no prior will do just as well. Moreover, the results suggest that MFTS models are not affected much by structural changes in the macro-economy.
Human frontoparietal cortex represents behaviorally-relevant target status during invariant object recognition

Abstract Searching for items that are useful given current goals, or “target” recognition, requires an observer to generalize across identity-preserving transformations such as viewpoint changes, as well as to incorporate contextual information. While past work has found target recognition signals in areas of ventral visual cortex, it is not clear whether these signals support performance on demanding tasks that require invariant, flexible search. Here, we used a task that required subjects to match novel object stimuli based on invariant features (identity and viewpoint). Based on multivariate fMRI analyses, the data suggest that the multiple-demand (MD) network, including sub-regions of parietal and frontal cortex, encodes invariant representations of an object’s status as a target. Furthermore, target information in MD regions, but not early or ventral visual cortex, was higher on correct compared to incorrect trials, suggesting a strong link between MD target signals and behavior.
Nanodiamonds as “magic bullets” for prostate cancer theranostics

Abstract Nanotechnology has a potential impact in the detection, treatment, and monitoring of cancer significantly, and to revolutionize cancer nanomedicine. Nanoparticles are particles with dimensions in the 1–100 nm range, the scale at which scale materials have unique physicochemical properties including ultrasmall size, large surface-to-mass ratio, high reactivity, and unique interactions with biological systems. Advanced nanoparticulate designs as “magic bullets” postulated by Paul Ehrlich, the Founder of chemotherapy, are now under in-lab development, including with combined capabilities for targeting, imaging, and delivering multiple drugs with enhanced therapeutic index and treatment efficacy to revolutionize the current cancer therapies in the coming years. Specifically, prostate cancer develops in the prostate, a gland in the male reproductive system. As the disease progresses and becomes more aggressive, the cancerous lesions spread beyond the prostate locally to the rectum or bladder, then eventually to the bones, lymph nodes, lungs, and liver. Enhancing therapeutic efficacy is essential for successful treatment of chemoresistant cancers such as metastatic hormone-refractory prostate cancer. Current chemotherapy regimens are plagued with issues such as toxicity, low bioavailability, and lack of specificity. To combat these issues, the feasibility of using nano/microparticles to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of chemotherapeutic drug have been widely explored in these days. This chapter aims to overview nanodiamonds (NDs) for therapeutic delivery systems for delivering the cancer drugs of interest, bioimaging for the detection of cancer and targeted drugs by multifunctionalized nanocarriers. NDs are attractive for this application because of their small size, 5–50 nm, which enables them to have enhanced circulation time in the body and the relative ease of modifying their surface with a range of functional molecules. The enhancement of chemotherapy using nanodiamond particles (NDPs) is attributed to three factors viz. drug mediation/combination therapy, targeted drug delivery, and bioimaging. Fluorescent-based detection and binding kinetics in a unique biosensing platform consisting of precision-patterned subpicoliter molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) elements with ND fluorescence from nitrogen or silicon-vacancy centers.
Comparing the Incidence of Surgical Site Infections(SSI) Using Narrow versus Broad-Spectrum Perioperative Antibiotic Prophylaxis in Mechanical Circulatory Support (MCS) Patients

Purpose The lack of standardization in MCS surgical infection prophylaxis (ppx) has led to highly varied antimicrobial regimens with broad-spectrum activity. The purpose of this study is to compare the incidence of SSI with narrow vs broad-spectrum antibiotics (abx) in MCS patients within 30 days post-op, and to assess adherence to abx ppx standards. Methods A single-center, IRB-approved retrospective analysis was performed on 52 patients implanted with a durable MCS device from 4/2017-6/2018, after implementation of the MCS Antibiotic Selection for Surgical Prophylaxis Guideline at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. The protocol recommends cefazolin or ceftriaxone for pre-op surgical ppx, with optional gentamicin for additional gram-negative coverage and vancomycin for severe β-lactam allergy. 26 patients were identified as On-Protocol (Cohort 1; protocol adherence), while another 26 patients were identified as Off-Protocol (Cohort 2; protocol non-adherence). The primary endpoint was SSI incidence among Cohort 1 (C1) and Cohort 2 (C2) within 30 days post-op. The secondary endpoints assessed protocol adherence. Results No patients in either cohort developed an SSI within 30 days post-op. C1 received a median of 1 pre-op abx, while C2 received a median of 2 pre-op abx (p=0.009). 12 patients in C1 received non-protocol abx post-op for open chest ppx or empiric treatment of a non-cardiac infection. Non-protocol antimicrobials used in C2 included vancomycin in patients with no β-lactam allergy (73%), piperacillin-tazobactam (31%), fluconazole (4%), and cefepime (4%). The average time between pre-op abx administration and first incision time was 18 min for C1 and 27 min for C2 (p=0.04). 83% of C1 and 53% of C2 received peri-op abx ppx for surgeries longer than 4 h (p=0.04). 46% of C1 and 54% of C2 had post-op abx extended beyond 48 h. Of these patients, 81% in C1 and 77% in C2 were empirically treated for non-cardiac infections, with only 27% of C1 and 4% of C2 having positive cultures (p=0.05). Conclusion The absence of SSI among Cohorts 1 and 2 supports narrow-spectrum pre-op abx ppx over broad-spectrum agents for durable MCS. The results of this preliminary, ongoing study promote abx stewardship and protocol adherence, which will help minimize the risk of antimicrobial resistance.
Electron Beam Tomography in Cardiopulmonary Imaging

At The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, electron beam computed tomography (EBCT) is the imaging modality of choice in evaluating chest and cardiovascular disease. In the chest, most EBCT studies are performed to define lung nodules, masses, infiltrative disease, and interstitial fibrosis. In the heart, EBCT is useful for assessing anatomy as well as cardiac function, including such quantitative indices as ejection fraction (EF), stroke volume (SV), chamber volume, diastolic filling, and myocardial mass determinations. EBCT also has the capability of assessing intracardiac thrombus and wall motion abnormalities as well as the pericardium and great vessels. In the above applications, the short acquisition time of the EBCT scanner allows for the artifact-free assessment of the mediastinum, lung, heart, and major vessels — all of which may be blurred when imaged with scanners with 1 s or longer scan times. This paper will discuss EBCT scanning in cardiopulmonary disease.
The Mass-Marketing of Mental Illness

This chapter describes crisis in identity that psychiatry underwent in the late 1970s with the transition from the asylum era to that of mass-marketing of mental illness. This era was exemplified by psychiatrist Harold S. Koplewicz, author of It’s Nobody’s Fault: New Hope and Help for Difficult Children, a leading proponent of bio-genetic explanations for mental illness, as well as one of the twenty-one notional authors of GlaxoSmithKline’s infamous Study 329 of Paxil. This chapter features my interview with Vickie, who at the age of ten was prescribed Paxil for “social anxiety disorder” (by a doctor who said her condition was probably hereditary), and who suffered devastating, life-long consequences.
Quantitative Ultrasound Spectroscopy for Differentiation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma from At-Risk and Normal Liver Parenchyma.

Purpose: Quantitative ultrasound approaches can capture tissue morphologic properties to augment clinical diagnostics. This study aims to clinically assess whether quantitative ultrasound spectroscopy (QUS) parameters measured in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues can be differentiated from those measured in at-risk or healthy liver parenchyma. Experimental Design: This prospective Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)–compliant study was approved by the Institutional Review Board. Fifteen patients with HCC, 15 non-HCC patients with chronic liver disease, and 15 healthy volunteers were included (31.1% women; 68.9% men). Ultrasound radiofrequency data were acquired in each patient in both liver lobes at two focal depths (3/9 cm). Region of interests (ROIs) were drawn on HCC and liver parenchyma. The average normalized power spectrum for each ROI was extracted, and a linear regression was fit within the −6 dB bandwidth, from which the midband fit (MBF), spectral intercept (SI), and spectral slope (SS) were extracted. Differences in QUS parameters between the ROIs were tested by a mixed-effects regression. Results: There was a significant intraindividual difference in MBF, SS, and SI between HCC and adjacent liver parenchyma (P 0.8) in differentiating HCC from non-HCC parenchyma. MBF (P = 0.12), SI (P = 0.33), and SS (P = 0.57) were not significantly different in non-HCC tissue among the groups. Conclusions: The QUS parameters are significantly different in HCC versus non-HCC liver parenchyma, independent of underlying cirrhosis. This could be leveraged for improved HCC detection with ultrasound in the future.
Surgical Trends in Articular Cartilage Injuries of the Knee, Analysis of the Truven Health MarketScan Commercial Claims Database from 2005-2014.

Purpose To evaluate trends in procedures for the treatment of chondral injuries of the knee using the MarketScan database in the hope that further work can be performed to refine the indications for chondral intervention Methods The MarketScan Research Database was searched using Current Procedure Terminology, 4th edition, codes to identify patients who underwent chondral procedures of the knee from 2005-2014. Combined procedures, including meniscal transplant or osteotomy, were also identified. Patients were characterized by gender, age group and year of initial procedure. A χ2 test was used to evaluate differences in surgical trends between individual patient groups delineated by age and gender. The Cochran-Armitage trend test was used to identify significant differences in surgical trends yearly. Results Of 148,373,254 unique patients, 520,934 patients underwent a total of 599,119 procedures. Arthroscopy with debridement/shaving of articular cartilage decreased in proportion from 75% of all procedures in 2005 to 51% of all procedures in 2014 (P Conclusions Knee arthroscopy with debridement/shaving of articular cartilage remains the most common procedure performed. Although open allograft and autograft transplantation saw a sustained increase in incidence, the overall incidence of cartilage procedures, as well as those performed with osteotomies, declined. Level of Evidence Level IV, cross-sectional study.
Teaching neuroscience at a religious institution: pedagogical models for handling neuroscience and theology.

The interdisciplinary nature of neuroscience makes it one of the most fascinating and complex subjects to address in the classroom. This can be compounded, however, by the addition of theology or a faith-related context at a religious institution (RI). The addition of theology and faith can enrich student appreciation and understanding of neuroscience and stimulate discussion in the classroom. This provides a practical way to make the course content relevant to students who may see neuroscience as antagonistic towards their faith. Over the past century questions of human experience and personhood that were long held to be under the authority of religion now can be addressed from findings in neuroscience. While there has been debate on a variety of topics which range from positions on origins to ethical questions about the nature of research (i.e. stem cells, cloning), it is important that teaching faculty at RIs be prepared to deal with the hard questions faced by students of faith. Recommendations for faculty are given including: self assessment of personal position on matters of faith and science, framing a number of models for the integration of neuroscience and theology, ‘Worldviews’, and mentoring students who are struggling with reconciling their faith with neuroscience. While this paper is designed for teachers at RIs, it may also aid teaching faculty at other institutions who may benefit from an awareness of this framework and aid in teaching students of faith in a secular setting.
Patterns of care and treatment outcomes in patients age 80 or older with non-metastatic pancreatic cancer

Abstract Introduction Older adults are underrepresented in landmark trials that determine treatment guidelines for pancreatic cancer. We used the National Cancer Database (NCDB) to compare treatment patterns and outcomes in stage I-III pancreatic cancer between older adult patients, defined as age 80 or older, to patients younger than 80. Material and Methods We identified 140,678 patients in the NCDB diagnosed with pancreatic cancer from 2004 to 2015. Patients with metastatic disease or non-adenocarcinoma histologies were excluded. Descriptive statistics comparing patients age 80+ and age Results We identified 140,678 patients with non-metastatic pancreatic cancer, of which 23,395 patients (16.6%) were 80 or older. Among older patients, 44.5% of patients received cancer-directed therapy compared to 78.7% among other patients (p Discussion Rates of cancer-directed therapy were low in patients age 80+, with 55.5% receiving no therapy. Cancer-directed treatment was associated with an overall survival benefit. Future trials are needed to define optimal treatment paradigms in this population.
Cache and energy efficient algorithms for Nussinov RNA folding

We propose three cache-efficient algorithms, ByRow, ByRowSegment and ByBox, for RNA folding using Nussinov's dynamic programming equations [1]. These algorithms, along with the cache-efficient Transpose algorithm of Li et al [2]. and the Classical algorithm of Nussinov are analyzed using a simple LRU cache model. For this model, Classical has the highest number of cache misses followed by Transpose, ByRow, ByRowSegment, and ByBox (in this order). Extensive experiments conducted on a single core of a Xeon E5 server, using two programming languages-C and Java-show that cache efficiency translates into time and energy efficiency. For example, our benchmarking shows that, when the algorithms are programmed in C, our ByBox algorithm reduces run time by as much as 91∶3% and energy consumption by as much as 90∶8% relative to Classical and by as much as 56∶3% and 57∶9%, respectively, relative to Transpose. In the Java programming language, ByBox takes up to 88∶9% less time than Classical and up to 74∶9% less than Transpose. Also, using the same amount of memory, the algorithms proposed by us can solve problems up to 40% larger than those solvable by Transpose.
Characterization and Validation of the Second-generation wPUM Topography Monitors.

INTRODUCTION Little is known about the natural use behavior of new and emerging tobacco products due to the limited availability of reliable puff topography monitors suitable for ambulatory deployment. An understanding of use behavior is needed to assess the health impact of emerging tobacco products and inform realistic standardized topography profiles for emissions studies. The purpose of this study is to validate four monitors: the wPUM cigalike, vapepen, hookah, and cigarette monitors. AIMS AND METHODS Each wPUM monitor was characterized and validated for range, accuracy, and resolution for puff flow rate, duration, volume, and interpuff gap in a controlled laboratory environment. Monitor repeatability was assessed for each wPUM monitor using four separate week-long natural environment monitoring studies including cigalike, vapepen, hookah, and cigarette users. RESULTS The valid flow rate range was 10 to 100 mL/s for cigalike and cigarette monitors, 10 to 95 mL/s for vapepen monitors, and 50 to 400 mL/s hookah monitors. Flow rate accuracy was within ±2 mL/s for cigalike, vapepen, and cigarette monitors and ±6 mL/s for the hookah monitor. Durations and interpuff gaps as small as 0.2 s were measured to within ±0.07 s. Monitor calibrations changed by 4.7% (vapepen), 1.5% (cigarette), 0.5% (cigalike), and 0.1% (hookah) after 1 week of natural environment use. CONCLUSIONS The wPUM topography monitors were demonstrated to be reliable when deployed in the natural environment for a range of emerging tobacco products. IMPLICATIONS The current study addresses the lack of available techniques to reliably monitor topography in the natural environment, across multiple emerging tobacco products. Natural environment topography data will inform standardized puffing protocols for premarket tobacco product applications. The ability to quantify topography over extended periods of time will lead to a better understanding of use behavior and better-informed regulations to protect public health.
A Two-State Model Describes the Temperature-Dependent Conformational Equilibrium in the Alanine-Rich Domains in Elastin.

Elastin is the insoluble elastomeric protein that provides extensibility and resilience to vertebrate tissues. Limited high-resolution structural data for elastin are notably complex. To access this information, this protein is considered in the simplified context of its two general domain types, that is, hydrophobic (HP) and crosslinking (CL). The question of elastin's structure-function has directed the focus of nearly all previous studies in the literature to the unique repeating sequences characteristic of this protein, found primarily in the HP domains. The CL domains were assumed to play a very limited role in biological elasticity due in part to the significant α-helical character that was (incorrectly) predicted for these regions. In this study, the conformational heterogeneity of alanines in native elastin's CL domains is examined in the context of helix-coil transition theory (HCTT) using solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (SSNMR) spectroscopy in tandem with strategic isotopic labeling. Helix and coil populations are observed at all temperatures, but the former increases significantly at lower temperatures. Below the glass transition temperature (Tg), two major populations of alanines in the CL regions are resolved by two-dimensional SSNMR; one-dimensional methods are used for characterization in nativelike conditions. The spectra of 13CO-Ala in the CL regions are simulated using an HCTT-based statistical mechanical representation. Below Tg, longer segments with significant helical probabilities are consistent with the experimental data. At higher temperatures, the SSNMR lineshapes are best fit with a distribution of shorter (Ala)n segments, most in random coil. These results are used to refine a structure-function model for elastin in the context of HCTT, redirecting attention to the CL domains and their role in elasticity.
Zero-Crossing Current Detection for Modular and Robust Dynamic Wireless Power Transfer

A novel control scheme applicable to in-road inductive wireless charging pads in a dynamic system is presented. Primary inverter current sensing allows the primary pad to detect an approaching secondary pad. Zero-crossing detection of the same current allows the primary to synchronize to the secondary, functioning as a "synchronous inverter". Necessary measures to ensure stable operation of the design are discussed. The design is validated through simulation, which demonstrated no loss of efficiency or power capacity with the novel synchronization and detection scheme.
Lived experiences of pregnant and new mothers during COVID-19 pandemic: A narrative analysis of YouTube birth stories.

Abstract Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic has brought on unprecedented changes, not only to our daily lives but also to our healthcare system. The pandemic has particularly impacted pregnant women that must give birth with tight restrictions and significant uncertainties. Birth stories have frequently been used as a way for women to describe their experiences with the birthing process. In this uncertain time, birth stories can provide valuable insight into how pregnancy and birth stressors during a pandemic can impact the patient’s overall experience. This study sought to describe and understand pregnant and new mothers’ lived experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Researchers extracted relevant YouTube birth stories using predetermined search terms and inclusion criteria. The mothers’ birth stories were narrated in their second or third trimester or those who had recently given birth during the study period. Birth stories were analyzed using an inductive and deductive approach to capture different aspects of the birthing experience. Results Overall, eighty-three birth stories were analyzed. Within these birth stories, four broad themes and twelve subthemes emerged. Key themes included a sense of loss, hospital experiences, experiences with healthcare providers, and unique experiences during birth and postpartum. The birth stories revealed negative and positive birth experiences. Particularly, mothers were frustrated with constantly changing policies within the healthcare setting that negatively affected their birthing experience. On the other hand, support from healthcare professionals, having their partners in the delivery room, and having a positive mindset was instrumental in having a positive birth experience. Conclusion Results from this study provided a detailed description of women’s lived experience with giving birth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Healthcare providers need to provide clear communication and compassionate patient-centered care to relieve women’s anxiety about uncertain and unpredictable policy as the pandemic continues to evolve.
New honeycomb iridium(V) oxides: NaIrO3 and Sr3CaIr2O9

We report the structures and physical properties of two new iridates, NaIrO3 and Sr3CaIr2O9, both of which contain continuous two-dimensional honeycomb connectivity. NaIrO3 is produced by room temperature oxidative deintercalation of sodium from Na2IrO3, and contains edge-sharing IrO6 octahedra that form a planar honeycomb lattice. Sr3CaIr2O9, produced via conventional solid-state synthesis, hosts a buckled honeycomb lattice with novel corner-sharing connectivity between IrO6 octahedra. Both of these new compounds are comprised of Ir(5+) (5d(4)) and exhibit negligible magnetic susceptibility. They are thus platforms to investigate the origin of the nonmagnetic behavior exhibited by Ir(5+) oxides, and provide the first examples of a J = 0 state on a honeycomb lattice.
The managerial apprenticeship of fdr's budget director: Harold D. smith and the michigan municipal league, 1928-1937

Public administration history often notes the seminal role of Harold D. Smith, FDR’s budget director (1939–1945), in the professionalization of the field and his principles for public budgeting. He was a cofounder of the American Society for Public Administration (ASPA) and its second president (1940–1941). Smith came to Washington after a longer career in nonprofit management. This exploratory historical case study fills in a gap in the literature. Specifically, it examines his nonprofit management record at the Michigan Municipal League (1928–1937). He successfully grew the nonprofit in the teeth of the Great Depression. This success, among others, can be seen as providing two possible applications. First, his record suggests some commonalities between nonprofit management and public administration. Second, leading a nonprofit during the Great Depression may suggest applicable lessons for longer-term problems caused by COVID-19 regarding organizational management strategies during another severe economic contraction.