cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Perceptions of dental professionals and laypersons to altered dental esthetics: Asymmetric and symmetric situations

Introduction: Previous studies evaluated the perception of laypersons to symmetric alteration of anterior dental esthetics. However, no studies have evaluated the perception of asymmetric esthetic alterations. This investigation will determine whether asymmetric and symmetric anterior dental discrepancies are detectable by dental professionals and laypersons. Methods: Seven images of women’s smiles were intentionally altered with a software-imaging program. The alterations involved crown length, crown width, midline diastema, papilla height, and gingiva-to-lip relationship of the maxillary anterior teeth. These altered images were rated by groups of general dentists, orthodontists, and laypersons using a visual analog scale. Statistical analysis of the responses resulted in the establishment of threshold levels of attractiveness for each group. Results: Orthodontists were more critical than dentists and laypeople when evaluating asymmetric crown length discrepancies. All 3 groups could identify a unilateral crown width discrepancy of 2.0 mm. A small midline diastema was not rated as unattractive by any group. Unilateral reduction of papillary height was generally rated less attractive than bilateral alteration. Orthodontists and laypeople rated a 3-mm distance from gingiva to lip as unattractive. Conclusions: Asymmetric alterations make teeth more unattractive to not only dental professionals but also the lay public. (Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop 2006; 130:141-51)
How does a gymnosperm branch (Pseudotsuga menziesii) assume the hydraulic status of a main stem when it takes over as leader

In most gymnosperms, resistance to the flow of water per unit path length through the main stem is less than that of lateral branches. Using branches, leaders, and branches that have replaced missing leaders (‘branch-leaders’), we tested the hypothesis that branch-leaders are at a hydraulic disadvantage. Reduced xylem transport efficiency in branch-leaders relative to leaders could be expected both because of an initial disparity in hydraulic capacity, and because of the relatively impermeable compression wood formed in branch-leaders during shoot reorientation. By subsampling branch-leaders, we also tested the hypothesis that opposite wood (formed directly opposite compression wood) is more permeable than normal wood, and could, therefore, compensate for the presence of compression wood at the whole shoot level. Fifteen months after leader removal, branch-leaders were intermediate between branches and leaders in their ability to supply foliage with water, suggesting a transition towards leader status that was not yet complete. Increased hydraulic capacity in branch-leaders was the result of increased xylem cross-sectional area per unit foliage, rather than an increase in permeability. Among subsampled wood types from basal branch-leader segments, opposite wood was significantly less permeable than normal wood, suggesting that it does not compensate for the presence of compression wood.
Medical Comorbidity and Schizophrenia: Editors' Introduction

Schizophrenia is a heavily biologically determined psychiatric disorder with unequivocal evidence for a major genetic component in its transmission. In addition to its genetic determination, schizophrenia is also associated with increased morbidity and mortality with illness and suffering and with death rates that are higher than would be expected. One of the intriguing possibilities is that there may be some biological link between genetic predisposition to schizophrenia and to other medical diseases. This research on medical comorbidity, originally presented at the Tenth Annual Pennsylvania Conference on Schizophrenia at Norristown State Hospital, requires further research and understanding.
POST-MERGER PERFORMANCE AMONG HOMOGENEOUS FIRM SAMPLES

This paper analyzes the post-merger performance of acquiring firms. The sample is transformed to a few homogenized subsamples along the various critical dimensions of the merger event. Those clusters with high growth or active acquisitions, active utilization of debt capacity, and low liquidity showed performance superior to the market. The results provide support for the hypothesis of financial synergism or at least the hypothesis that aggressive growth strategies are rewarded by the market.
Simultaneous positive and negative external mechanical work in human walking

In human walking, the center of mass motion is similar to an inverted pendulum. Viewing double support as a transition from one inverted pendulum to the next, we hypothesized that the leading leg performs negative work to redirect the center of mass velocity, while simultaneously, the trailing leg performs positive work to replace the lost energy. To test this hypothesis, we developed a method to quantify the external mechanical work performed by each limb (individual limbs method). Traditional measures of external mechanical work use the sum of the ground reaction forces acting on the limbs (combined limbs method) allowing for the mathematical cancellation of simultaneous positive and negative work during multiple support periods. We expected to find that the traditional combined limbs method underestimates external mechanical work by a substantial amount. We used both methods to measure the external mechanical work performed by humans walking over a range of speeds. We found that during double support, the legs perform a substantial amount of positive and negative external work simultaneously. The combined limbs measures of positive and negative external work were approximately 33% less than those calculated using the individual limbs method. At all speeds, the trailing leg performs greater than 97% of the double support positive work while the leading leg performs greater than 94% of the double support negative work.
The Challenges of Journal Startup in the Digital Era

This paper aims to contribute to the evolving literature on the new landscape of scholarly journals. It builds on a series of experiences as a journal editor which span the print and digital eras, and focuses on two current activities with new journals. One was designed as a synoptic journal in a broad multidisciplinary field, supported by a commercial publisher; the other a non-revenue journal which aims to showcase the work of undergraduates in the author’s institution. Despite the uniqueness of goals and delivery, some of the experiences—and challenges—have proved remarkably similar.
High Glucose Concentration Alters Cell Proliferation Dynamics in Human Hepatoma Cells

The aim of this study was to develop an in vitro model to investigate the molecular mechanisms of glucose-induced inhibition of cell proliferation. HuH7 cells were grown in the presence or absence of glucose for 7 days and cell proliferation was stimulated by exposure to thioacetamide. Lactate dehydrogenase leakage and 3H-thymidine incorporation were used as indices of toxicity and DNA synthesis, respectively. Cell cycle progression and protooncogene expression was monitored by flow cytometry and slot-blot analyses. Toxicity caused by thioacetamide regressed with time in the presence of 11 mM glucose (control). However, in the presence of 28 mM glucose, sustained toxicity was evident as mirrored by lactate dehydrogenase leakage. Peak DNA synthesis noted at 48 hours in the thioacetamide-treated group (11 mM glucose) was significantly diminished in the presence of 28 mM glucose. Increased c-myc expression was observed as early as 30 minutes in the thioacetamide-treated group. When cells were exposed to 28 m...
Averaged equations for layered and blocky media

Construction of caverns, underground tunnels and dams must deal with large bodies of rocks and with the mechanics of rock foundation. Such rocks, as well as geomechanical rocks, are frequently modeled as periodically assembled rigid blocks of identical size which could slide with respect to one other. The decisive role of joints and seams has long been recognized by engineers working with structures of rocks. Indeed, in the stability of rock slopes and underground excavations, the influence of the joints, rather than the rock type, is the dominant factor.
Compact Roll-to-Roll Coater for in Situ X-ray Diffraction Characterization of Organic Electronics Printing.

We describe a compact roll-to-roll (R2R) coater that is capable of tracking the crystallization process of semiconducting polymers during solution printing using X-ray scattering at synchrotron beamlines. An improved understanding of the morphology evolution during the solution-processing of organic semiconductor materials during R2R coating processes is necessary to bridge the gap between “lab” and “fab”. The instrument consists of a vacuum chuck to hold the flexible plastic substrate uniformly flat for grazing incidence X-ray scattering. The time resolution of the drying process that is achievable can be tuned by controlling two independent motor speeds, namely, the speed of the moving flexible substrate and the speed of the printer head moving in the opposite direction. With this novel design, we are able to achieve a wide range of drying time resolutions, from tens of milliseconds to seconds. This allows examination of the crystallization process over either fast or slow drying processes depending on ...
Risk of Death from Alzheimer's Disease in a Community Population of Older Persons

A random sample of 467 persons over age 65 years from the population of an urban US community, stratified by age, sex, and performance on a brief memory test, underwent clinical evaluation for dementing illness in 1982-1984. Of these persons, 134 had probable Alzheimer's disease, 166 had possible Alzheimer's disease, and 167 had no evidence of Alzheimer's disease. Over a median follow-up period of 4.9 years following evaluation, 165 (35%) died. Overall, persons with probable Alzheimer's disease had a relative risk of death 1.44 (95% confidence interval (Cl) 1.05-1.96) times that of the unaffected. Level of cognitive impairment and the presence of cachexia upon physical examination both strongly and independently modified risk of death. Among those with probable Alzheimer's disease, mortality for those with mild or moderate cognitive impairment and no evidence of cachexia was comparable to that of the unaffected. However, among those with probable Alzheimer's disease and either severe cognitive impairment or cachexia, the risk of death was substantially higher. Persons with probable Alzheimer's disease who had both severe cognitive impairment and clear cachexia had a risk of death 4.60 (95% Cl 1.63-13.1) times that of unaffected persons.
Incident-Induced Delays on Freeways: Quantification Method by Grouping Similar Traffic Patterns

Freeway incidents cause nonrecurrent congestion, which contributes significantly to overall travel delays. This paper provides a method to estimate the magnitude of delays resulting from incidents. Incident-induced delays can be estimated by establishing an incident-free reference travel time profile as a basis from which the incident-induced delay is measured. The main objective of this paper is to show how to establish the reference profile from a subset of candidate profiles of similar traffic patterns. To identify similar traffic patterns, a hybrid of travel time and volume profiles was used. To establish the reference profile, three methods for candidate profile identification were investigated: day of the week based, cluster analysis based, and k–nearest neighbor based. Weighted summations of the candidate profiles were also investigated: arithmetic average, Shepard’s inverse distance method, and rank exponent method. A ground truth experiment was conducted, and the results showed that the best way ...
Civil RICO Reform: The Basis for Compromise

... More recently, civil RICO, another attempt to promote commercial integrity, has evoked institutional criticism and has been targeted for reform. ... RICO's civil provisions were specifically designed to deter enterprise criminality by authorizing treble damage awards and attorneys fees for successful plaintiffs. ... (1) in paragraph (1), by striking out racketeering and inserting predicate criminal in lieu thereof; ... Section 1968 of title 18, United States Code, is amended by inserting or fraud after racketeering each place it appears. ... (1) in paragraph (1), by striking out racketeering the first place it appears and inserting illicit in lieu thereof; (2) in paragraph (5), by striking out racketeering each place it appears and inserting illicit in lieu thereof; (3) in paragraph (7), by striking out racketeering each place it appears and inserting criminal in lieu thereof; and ... (1) in paragraph (1), by striking out racketeering the first place it appears and inserting illicit in lieu thereof; (2) in paragraph (5), by striking out racketeering each place it appears and inserting illicit in lieu thereof; ... (2) in paragraph (5), by striking out racketeering each place it appears and inserting illicit in lieu thereof; ... (2) in paragraph (5), by striking out racketeering each place it appears and inserting illicit in lieu thereof; ...
A Computer-Mediated Escape from the Closet: Exploring Identity, Community, and Disinhibited Discussion on an Internet Coming Out Advice Forum

Research suggests that gay men and lesbians, as a product of being raised by heterosexuals in a heterosexist culture, are often shielded from information to help them cope with their stigmatized identity in their early years. Unsurprisingly, this community of individuals has been found to use the Internet more heavily than their heterosexual counterparts. This study examined an advice sub-forum on a popular set of forums designated for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) people negotiating the coming out process. Employing online disinhibition as a framework, and drawing from an identity management standpoint, a thematic analysis uncovered seven unique ways that LGBTQ people create community and craft identities in a computer-mediated context.
p70s6k is activated by CCK in rat pancreatic acini

The expression and activity of p70s6k-p85s6k in isolated rat pancreatic acini were revealed by Western blotting, immunoprecipitation, and kinase assay. Cholecystokinin (CCK) stimulation of p70s6k activity was biphasic, with an early phase maximum at 5 min and a late phase maximum at 60 min. The threshold concentration of CCK to increase p70s6k activity was 3 pM, and the maximal effect was seen at 1 nM CCK. Carbachol and bombesin, but not vasoactive intestinal peptide, also activated p70s6k. The protein kinase C (PKC) activator (12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate), the calcium ionophore (ionomycin), and a derivative of adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate induced only a slight increase in p70s6k activity. Rapamycin potently blocked both the basal and the CCK-stimulated p70s6k activity, and this inhibition was reversed by an excess of FK-506. The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitor, wortmannin, potently inhibited p70s6k activation by CCK, whereas the tyrosine kinase inhibitor genistein had only a partial effect. Neither rapamycin nor wortmannin inhibited amylase release at concentrations that inhibited p70s6k activity. Thus the activation pathway of p70s6k by CCK is not mediated by PKC or mobilization of intracellular calcium but seems to be mediated by phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase. The effect of rapamycin to inhibit p70s6k activity is mediated by binding to the immunophyllin FK-506-binding protein of 12 kDa. The p70s6k is not involved in the secretion of digestive enzymes induced by CCK.
A New Radfordia (Acarina: Myobiidae) from the Kangaroo Rat and a Key to the Known Species

The larval, nymphal, and adult stages, including a partial life history, of Radfordia bachai n. sp. (Acarina: Myobiidae) from Dipodomys ordii Woodhouse, in Utah, are described and illustrated. A key to males and females of Radfordia, based primarily on chaetotaxy, is given. The chaetotaxal patterns are discussed and illustrated. The taxonomic position of three species, R. bifoliata Lawrence, R. davisi (Radford), and R. noctulia (Radford), is discussed.
Application of relative-age dating techniques on rock glaciers of the La Sal Mountains, Utah : An interpretation of Holocene paleoclimates

This paper applies a variety of relative-age dating techniques on rock glaciers of the La Sal Mountains, Utah to interpret the area's Holocene paleoclimates. Relative ages of rock glaciers and talu...
Analysis of Aedes albopictus density dynamics in previous dengue fever epidemic focus in Guangzhou rural area

Objective Exploring the characteristic of A. albopictus density dynamics in previous dengue fever epidemic focus in Guangzhou rural area. Methods Monitoring point was established in rural area to continuously observe the density of A. albopictus and larvae in nature environment. Results In rural area, breeding places of A. albopictus are mainly outdoor. Larvae can be found in water containers of the whole year. The density change of A. albopictus is closely correlated to the seasonal variation. Conclusion Population of A. albopictus in rural area is easily affected by climatic factors. There is time interval between the peak of larvae density and mosquito density but the regularity is still unclear up to now.
Design of Enclosed Clamp for Long Rod Suspension Ceramic Insulator in 500 kV DC Transmission Line

The long rod suspension ceramic insulator has been widely used in 500kV DC transmission line, this kind of insulator will become zero or low resistance under the outer circumstance after long-time operation, so in order to guarantee the reliability of power supply, it is necessary to change porcelain insulator with live working. The author describes a kind of insulator clamp used in live working of ±500 kV DC transmission line, this insulator clamp is to change a single of any long rod suspension ceramic insulator located in the middle of tension string, moreover, it is of light weight, high strength, as well as easy to carry, so it is very important to live overhaul of tension string which is mainly composed of rod-porcelain insulators.
Efficient Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of 5′-GalNAc Conjugated Antisense Oligonucleotides

Conjugation of triantennary N-acetyl galactosamine (GalNAc) to oligonucleotide therapeutics results in marked improvement in potency for reducing gene targets expressed in hepatocytes. In this report we describe a robust and efficient solution-phase conjugation strategy to attach triantennary GalNAc clusters (mol. wt. ∼2000) activated as PFP (pentafluorophenyl) esters onto 5′-hexylamino modified antisense oligonucleotides (5′-HA ASOs, mol. wt. ∼8000 Da). The conjugation reaction is efficient and was used to prepare GalNAc conjugated ASOs from milligram to multigram scale. The solution phase method avoids loading of GalNAc clusters onto solid-support for automated synthesis and will facilitate evaluation of GalNAc clusters for structure activity relationship (SAR) studies. Furthermore, we show that transfer of the GalNAc cluster from the 3′-end of an ASO to the 5′-end results in improved potency in cells and animals.
Mutagen Sensitivity as Measured by Induced Chromatid Breakage as a Marker of Cancer Risk

Risk assessment is now recognized as a multidisciplinary process, extending beyond the scope of traditional epidemiologic methodology to include biological evaluation of interindividual differences in carcinogenic susceptibility. Modulation of environmental exposures by host genetic factors may explain much of the observed interindividual variation in susceptibility to carcinogenesis. These genetic factors include, but are not limited to, carcinogen metabolism and DNA repair capacity. This chapter describes a standardized method for the functional assessment of mutagen sensitivity. This in vitro assay measures the frequency of mutagen-induced breaks in the chromosomes of peripheral blood lymphocytes. Mutagen sensitivity assessed by this method has been shown to be a significant risk factor for tobacco-related maladies, especially those of the upper aerodigestive tract. Mutagen sensitivity may therefore be a useful member of a panel of susceptibility markers for defining high-risk subgroups for chemoprevention trials. This chapter describes methods for and discusses results from studies of mutagen sensitivity as measured by quantifying chromatid breaks induced by clastogenic agents, such as the γ-radiation mimetic DNA cross-linking agent bleomycin and chemicals that form so-called bulky DNA adducts, such as 4-nitroquinoline and the tobacco smoke constituent benzo[a]pyrene, in short-term cultured peripheral blood lymphocytes.
Emile the citizen? A reassessment of the relationship between private education and citizenship in Rousseau’s political thought

It is often said that the claims of man and citizen are irreconcilable in the philosophy of Jean-Jacques Rousseau. This view, most famously articulated by Judith Shklar, holds that the making of a ...
The role of interactions with teachers and conflict with friends in shaping school adjustment

Fifth grade children (N = 346) identified school friends and reported on levels of conflict in relationships with these friends as well as perceived stress in relationships with teachers. Teachers and children provided ratings of problem behaviors at school, and children reported on their own perceptions of stress at school. Both less conflictual school friendships and less stressful relationships with teachers were linked with fewer feelings of stress and lower levels of problem problems at school. For the problem behaviors outcome, having more positive relationships with one set of others (teachers or friends) buffered children from experiencing negative consequences of poor relationships with the other set of individuals. The interaction effect involving friendship conflicts and stressful teacher interactions in relation to school stress was more complicated, differing for boys versus girls.
132 : Sensing of DNA by innate immune receptors

Nucleic acids are amongst the most potent stimuli of cells in the immune systems. Interferons and proinflammatory cytokines induced by nucleic acids have pleiotropic effects on the function of both innate and adaptive immune systems. Several families of innate immune receptors at different subcellular locations have evolved to recognize DNA and RNA molecules from both invading microbes and damaged host tissues. I will outline the known families of nucleic acid sensors, and focus on the cytosolic DNA sensors such as the AIM2 inflammasome, and cell surface receptor RAGE, which facilitates DNA recognition by the endosomal receptor TLR9. Structure–function studies of these receptors reveal a common mechanism of sequence-independent recognition through electrostatic attractions. As such, highly charged small molecules or peptides are potential candidates for therapeutic intervention of inflammatory conditions involving DNA sensing.
Spontaneous and indicated preterm delivery risk is increased among overweight and obese women without prepregnancy chronic disease

Objective To investigate the independent impact of prepregnancy obesity on preterm delivery among women without chronic diseases by gestational age, preterm category and parity. Design A retrospective cohort study. Setting Data from the Consortium on Safe Labor (CSL) in the USA (2002–08). Population Singleton deliveries at ≥23 weeks of gestation in the CSL (43 200 nulliparas and 63 129 multiparas) with a prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) ≥18.5 kg/m2 and without chronic diseases. Methods Association of prepregnancy BMI and the risk of preterm delivery was examined using Poisson regression with normal weight as reference. Main outcome measures Preterm deliveries were categorised by gestational age (extremely, very, moderate to late) and category (spontaneous, indicated, no recorded indication). Results Relative risk of spontaneous preterm delivery was increased for extremely preterm among obese nulliparas (1.26, 95% CI: 0.94–1.70 for overweight; 1.88, 95% CI: 1.30–2.71 for obese class I; 1.99, 95% CI: 1.32–3.01 for obese class II/III) and decreased for moderate to late preterm delivery among overweight and obese multiparas (0.90, 95% CI: 0.83–0.97 for overweight; 0.87, 95% CI: 0.78–0.97 for obese class I; 0.79, 95% CI: 0.69–0.90 for obese class II/III). Indicated preterm delivery risk was increased with prepregnancy BMI in a dose–response manner for extremely preterm and moderate to late preterm among nulliparas, as it was for moderate to late preterm delivery among multiparas. Conclusions Prepregnancy BMI was associated with increased risk of preterm delivery even in the absence of chronic diseases, but the association was heterogeneous by preterm categories, gestational age and parity. Tweetable abstract Obese nulliparas without chronic disease had higher risk for spontaneous delivery <28 weeks of gestation.
Environmental Influences on Tonic Immobility in Three- and Seven-Day-Old Chicks ( Gallus gallus )

Tonic immobility was induced in 3- and 7-day-old chicks by a ventral restraint procedure in the presence of familiar or unfamiliar geometric shapes or blank test box walls. Older chicks exhibited longer immobility reactions, fewer spontaneous terminations, and deeper stages of immobility in all test conditions. Younger chicks responded selectively to environmental test conditions, showing attenuated response in the presence of familiar shapes and stronger reactions to unfamiliar shapes. Results were discussed in terms of differential fearfulness as a function of age-related experience.
Stage One: Antecedent Awareness and Empathic Concern

This chapter provides the reader with a description of the steps in stage one of the prosocial leadership development process. Specifically, this chapter reviews the components of stage one, then discusses the development process and the nature of the relationship between steps in stage one. The chapter then defines each of the four steps in this stage: self-awareness/antecedents, emotional awareness, empathy and intrapersonal goals. A discussion also describes the function of the two foundational elements that remain consistent throughout the process: the projected representative and integration. The chapter resolves with a short discussion of and reflection on the critical components of stage one.
On the role of immediate probability in various decision making models

Recently, new approaches have been presented which contribute to decision analysis modeling. These methods provide a means of handling various ways of representing events, decision makers’ attitudes and payoffs. We will discuss how the new approaches may be used with each other as well as in conjunction with traditional methods. The role of immediate probability in various decision making models will be highlighted.
Hydrostatic measurement and finite element simulation of the compliance of the organ of Corti complex.

In the mammalian cochlea, the geometrical and mechanical properties of the organ of Corti complex (OCC, consisting of the tectorial membrane, the organ of Corti, and the basilar membrane) have fundamental consequences for understanding the physics of hearing. Despite efforts to correlate the mechanical properties of the OCC with cochlear function, experimental data of OCC stiffness are limited due to difficulties in measurement. Modern measurements of the OCC stiffness use microprobes exclusively, but suffer ambiguity when defining the physiologically relevant stiffness due to the high nonlinearity in the force-displacement relationship. The nonlinearity stems from two sources. First, microprobes apply local force instead of fluid pressure across the OCC. Second, to obtain the functionally relevant stiffness, the OCC is deformed well beyond in vivo levels (>10 μm). The objective of this study was to develop an alternative technique to overcome challenges intrinsic to the microprobe method. Using a custom-...
Are children with chronic illnesses requiring dietary therapy at risk for disordered eating or eating disorders? A systematic review.

OBJECTIVE Pediatric chronic illnesses (CI) can affect a child's mental health. Chronic illnesses with treatment regimens that specify a therapeutic diet may place the child at increased risk for disordered eating and specific eating disorders (ED). The aim of this review is to examine the relation between diet-treated CI and disordered eating and to determine the order of onset to infer directionality. Diet-treated CI is hypothesized to precede and to be associated with disordered eating. METHOD A comprehensive search of empirical articles that examine the relation between diet-treated CI (diabetes, cystic fibrosis, celiac disease, gastrointestinal disorders, and inflammatory bowel diseases) and disordered eating was conducted in Medline and PsycINFO using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. A table of the sample's characteristics, ED measures, major pertinent findings, and the onset of CI in relation to ED were provided. RESULTS Diet-treated CI was associated with disordered eating and ED. Diet-treated CI had onset prior to disordered eating in most studies, except for inflammatory bowel diseases. Disordered eating and unhealthy weight management practices put children at risk for poor medical outcomes. DISCUSSION Interventions for diet-treated CI require a focus on diet and weight, but may increase the risk for disordered eating. Future research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms that transform standard treatment practices into pathological eating, including characteristics and behaviors of the child, parents/care providers, family, and treatment providers.
Yes Academic Bias is a Problem and We Need to Address it: a Response to Larregue

Larregue argued that while there is an ideological imbalance among academics that this imbalance has not unfairly impacted our findings. He also implies that it is the activism of conservatives, rather than progressives, which has created real problems in academia. As such he disputes claims that activism among progressive academics has create a backlash from political conservatives. However, Larregue does not address the previous empirical work on the subject of academic bias. Furthermore, his argument of methodological rigor does not address the tendency of scholars to overlook alternate theories. His argument that progressive scholars are no more biased than conservative scholars fails to account for the sheer number of progressive scholars relative to conservative scholars as it concerns the possibly of institutional bias. I also find his focus on fraud to be misplaced since scholars do not have to engage in fraud to be in ideological silos that do not take alternative theories into account. As to his second major argument, I am unsure whether liberal academic activism leads to conservative mistrust and await further future research on this topic. I do commend Larregue in bringing the question of sources of conservative mistust to our attention.
Drug Abuse and Addiction in Elderly

Misuse and abuse of legal and illegal drugs constitute a current and growing problem among older adults. This chapter reviews the prevalence, risks and protective factors, screening and diagnosis, and treatment of drug abuse in older adults. Despite a wealth of information on the epidemiology and treatment of alcohol abuse in older adults, few data are available on drug abuse in this population. Limited evidence suggests that although illegal drug use among older adults is relatively rare compared to younger adults and adolescents, there is a growing problem of prescription drug misuse and abuse, with nonmedical use of prescription drugs among all adults aged ≥50 years estimated to increase to 2.7 million by 2020. Factors associated with drug misuse and abuse in older adults include female sex, social isolation, history of a substance use or mental health disorder, and medical exposure to prescription drugs with abuse potential. The paucity of validated screening and assessment instruments impedes the identification and diagnoses of substance use disorders in the older population. Thus, special approaches may be necessary when treating substance use disorders in older adults with multiple comorbidities and/or functional impairment, with the least intensive approaches considered first. In conclusion, psychoactive medications with abuse potential are used by at least one in four older adults. The treatment of substance use disorders in older adults may involve family and caretakers, and should take into account the unique physical, emotional, and cognitive factors associated with aging. Further research should focus on epidemiologic, health services, and screening and treatment aspects of drug abuse in older adults.
Skill discovery in virtual assistants

Skill recommendations must be provided when users need them most, without being obtrusive or distracting.
Using high-frequency soil oxygen sensors to predict greenhouse gas emissions from wetlands

Abstract Understanding the mechanisms that lead to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions requires knowledge of short-term fluctuations in drivers of fluxes. To better understand how variation and lags in abiotic conditions affect soil GHG fluxes, we coupled weekly methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) flux measurements with time-series soil sensor data for oxygen (O2), moisture and temperature. Including time-series data improved models for soil CH4 and N2O fluxes compared to models which did not contain time series data. Fluctuations in soil O2 drove CH4 fluxes, where rapid changes in redox conditions led to high fluxes. N2O fluxes occurred when soils were warm and dry. Soil O2 was the best predictor and thus sensor for understanding CH4 fluxes, whereas soil moisture best predicted N2O fluxes. Combining data from multiple sensors improved models for both gases, underscoring the relative importance of interactions among drivers. Overall, our top models explained 15% and 30% of the variance in N2O and CH4 fluxes, respectively. Fluxes predicted using linear interpolation between measured fluxes were lower than time-series model predictions for both N2O and CH4 fluxes. This suggests linear interpolation may fail to capture “hot moments” or episodic events which lead to high fluxes. Long-term, continuous data from sensors, which accounts for short-term variation in abiotic drivers, may improve our ability to predict the timing and intensity of GHG emissions from wetland soils.
Use of Bivalirudin in Pediatric Patients on Ventricular Assist Device Support

Purpose Little reported data exist regarding bivalirudin anticoagulation in pediatric patients supported with ventricular assist devices (VAD). Methods Single center retrospective cohort study of all patients supported with VAD who received bivalirudin for anticoagulation from 10/2016 to 10/2018. Demographic variables and clinical features, including indication for bivalirudin, details of therapy, and complications were analyzed. Results Bivalirudin was utilized in 19 HeartWare and 4 Berlin EXCOR patients (23 runs in 19 unique patients) - 39% (9/23) male, median age 13.6yr (IQR 6.3 - 17.2yr). Indications included: initial anticoagulation after VAD in 34% (4 HeartWare, 4 Berlin EXCOR), rescue anticoagulation for sub-therapeutic heparin in 26% (6 HeartWare), wash-out for pump thrombosis based on log file analysis and laboratory findings of hemolysis in 26% (6 HeartWare), and anticoagulation after a new ischemic stroke (once neurologically stable) in 14% (3 HeartWare). The overall median duration of bivalirudin was 23 days (IQR 12 - 35 days). The median starting dose was 0.15 mg/kg/hr (IQR 0.1 - 0.15 mg/kg/hr), and the median target activated partial thromboplastin time (PTT) Hepzyme was 60 - 70 sec. The median initial lactate dehydrogenase level was 1213 IU/mL (IQR 599 - 2072 IU/mL), and the median initial plasma hemoglobin level was 40 mg/dL (IQR 30 - 110 mg/dL). The median time to reach goal anticoagulation parameters was 1 day (IQR 1-2 days), and the median therapeutic dose was 0.2 mg/kg/hr (IQR 0.15 - 0.20 mg/kg/hr). Two of the 6 patients who received bivalirudin infusion for washout of pump thrombosis did not achieve therapeutic PTT hepzyme levels, and underwent pump exchange. The remaining 4 patients had normalization of flow patterns on their log file downloads after bivalirudin. While on bivalirudin, 1 patient had a bleeding complication (mediastinal hematoma in HeartWare), while 3 patients had thrombotic complications (all on bivalirudin for primary anticoagulation after VAD implantation - 1 embolic stroke in Berlin EXCOR, 1 embolic stroke in HeartWare, 1 VAD thrombus in HeartWare). Conclusion In this small pediatric series, bivalirudin use for post-operative anticoagulation as well as pump thrombosis achieved therapeutic success in 91% (21/23) cases, with complications in 4 cases. Increasing use of bivalirudin will help elucidate its role in pediatric VAD management.
The pathogenesis of human cancer metastasis

Cancer is a collection of malignancies with each cancer of each organ consisting of numerous subsets. This biologic and clinical heterogeneity is probably due to the different etiologies, origins, and selection pressures. Despite this heterogeneity, all malignant neoplasms have a uniform characteristic: the ability to invade host tissues and produce metastases. Clinical observations of cancer patients and studies with experimental rodent tumors have revealed that certain tumors produce metastasis to specific organs independent of vascular anatomy, rate of blood flow, and number of tumor cells delivered to each organ. The distribution and fate of hematogeneously disseminated, radiolabeled tumor cells in experimental rodent systems amply demonstrate that tumor cells reach the micro vasculature of many organs. Extravasation into the organ parenchyma and proliferation in the organ parenchyma of tumor cells occur in only some organs. Therefore, the presence of viable tumor cells in a particular organ does not always predict that metastases will develop [1].
Dopaminergic modulation of striatal function and Parkinson’s disease

The striatum is richly innervated by mesencephalic dopaminergic neurons that modulate a diverse array of cellular and synaptic functions that control goal-directed actions and habits. The loss of this innervation has long been thought to be the principal cause of the cardinal motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD). Moreover, chronic, pharmacological overstimulation of striatal dopamine (DA) receptors is generally viewed as the trigger for levodopa-induced dyskinesia (LID) in late-stage PD patients. Here, we discuss recent advances in our understanding of the relationship between the striatum and DA, particularly as it relates to PD and LID. First, it has become clear that chronic perturbations of DA levels in PD and LID bring about cell type-specific, homeostatic changes in spiny projection neurons (SPNs) that tend to normalize striatal activity. Second, perturbations in DA signaling also bring about non-homeostatic aberrations in synaptic plasticity that contribute to disease symptoms. Third, it has become evident that striatal interneurons are major determinants of network activity and behavior in PD and LID. Finally, recent work examining the activity of SPNs in freely moving animals has revealed that the pathophysiology induced by altered DA signaling is not limited to imbalance in the average spiking in direct and indirect pathways, but involves more nuanced disruptions of neuronal ensemble activity.
A physician-scientist preceptorship in clinical and translational research enhances training and mentorship

Dual degree program MD/PhD candidates typically train extensively in basic science research and in clinical medicine, but often receive little formal experience or mentorship in clinical and translational research. To address this educational and curricular gap, the University of Wisconsin Medical Scientist Training Program partnered with the University of Wisconsin Institute for Clinical and Translational Research to create a new physician-scientist preceptorship in clinical and translational research. This six-week apprentice-style learning experience—guided by a physician-scientist faculty mentor—integrates both clinical work and a translational research project, providing early exposure and hands-on experience with clinically oriented research and the integrated career of a physician-scientist. Five years following implementation, we retrospectively surveyed students and faculty members to determine the outcomes of this preceptorship. Over five years, 38 students and 36 faculty members participated in the physician-scientist preceptorship. Based on student self-assessments (n = 29, response rate 76%), the course enhanced competency in conducting translational research and understanding regulation of clinical research among other skills. Mentor assessments (n = 17, response rate 47%) supported the value of the preceptorship in these same areas. Based on work during the preceptorship, half of the students produced a peer-reviewed publication or a meeting abstract. At least eleven peer-reviewed manuscripts were generated. The preceptorship also provided a structure for physician-scientist mentorship in the students’ clinical specialty of choice. The physician-scientist preceptorship provides a new curricular model to address the gap of clinical research training and provides for mentorship of physician-scientists during medical school. Future work will assess the long-term impact of this course on physician-scientist career trajectories.
From clumsy failure to skillful fluency: a phenomenological analysis of and Eastern solution to sport’s choking effect

Excellent performance in sport involves specialized and refined skills within very narrow applications. Choking throws a wrench in the works of finely tuned performances. Functionally, and reduced to its simplest expression, choking is severe underperformance when engaging already mastered skills. Choking is a complex phenomenon with many intersecting facets: its dysfunctions result from the multifaceted interaction of cognitive and psychological processes, neurophysiological mechanisms, and phenomenological dynamics. This article develops a phenomenological model that, complementing empirical and theoretical research, helps understand and redress choking. It aims at describing the experience of choking as experience, and to discuss strategies to palliate or prevent its onset at the pragmatic level at which athletes engage the phenomenon experientially. An overview of current empirical research and theoretical models highlights key ideas and points out contentious issues. The model describes the common structure of the choking experience. It identifies four core constitutive elements: A) disruptive proprioceptive and kinesthetic dynamics, B) a malfunctioning background or Jamesian fringe of consciousness, C) dislocated time dynamics, and D) emotional disturbances. The novelty of the remedy is that it is designed to cross disciplinary boundaries between phenomenology, historiography, and hermeneutics, and moreover connects theory to praxis as it looks at Japanese dō (道), practices of self-cultivation. It focuses on actual do-or-die situations, not putative ones such as important business deals or competing for a medal. To this effect, it examines medieval Japanese swordsmanship and training manuals and also engages risk sports, where death is indeed a real possibility. The manuals, which arise in the context of choke-inducing life or death duels, and risk sports, afford keen phenomenological observations and practical advice that prove invaluable for today’s sports world and beyond.
Effect of EnChroma glasses on color vision screening using Ishihara and Farnsworth D-15 color vision tests

Background The prevalence of color vision deficiency (CVD) is about 0.5% in females and 8% in males. Although there is no cure for CVD, specially filtered glasses are purported to improve color contrast. One recent development is the EnChroma filter. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of the EnChroma filter on color vision screening (CVS) using Ishihara and Farnsworth D-15 color vision tests. Methods The medical records of patients with CVD were reviewed retrospectively. Responses to color vision testing with and without the EnChroma filter were evaluated using Ishihara and Farnsworth D-15 tests, and the overall scores were analyzed. Results A total of 38 eyes of 19 patients were included. Mean error scores of no filter compared to EnChroma were significantly reduced in 17 eyes using the Ishihara test (0.88 ± 0.03 vs 0.85 ± 0.03, P = 0.017). The error score significantly reduced only in deutans (P = 0.022), not in protans (P = 0.44). The confusion index of no filter to the EnChroma filter was significantly reduced in 20 eyes using the Farnsworth test (3.30 ± 0.15 vs 2.98 ± 0.17; P = 0.01). The confusion index significantly reduced only in protans (P = 0.01), not in deutans (P = 0.19). Conclusions In this study cohort, the EnChroma filter significantly reduced overall error scores using the Ishihara and Farnsworth tests; error scores on Ishihara testing reduced only in deutans. Conversely, the confusion index using Farnsworth reduced only in protans. The majority of patients reported subjective increase in color perception.
Economic performance of membrane distillation configurations in optimal solar thermal desalination systems

Abstract In this study we provide a comprehensive evaluation of the economic performance and viability of solar membrane distillation (MD). To achieve this goal, process models based on mass and energy balances were used to find the minimum cost of water in MD systems. Three MD configurations: direct contact, sweeping gas, and vacuum MD, were compared in terms of economic cost and energy requirements in optimized, solar-driven desalination systems constrained to produce 10 m3 d−1 of distillate from 3.5% or 15% salinity water. Simulation results were used to calculate the water production cost as a function of 13 decision variables, including equipment size and operational variables. Non-linear optimization was performed using the particle swarm algorithm to minimize water production costs and identify optimal values for all decision variables. Results indicate that vacuum MD outperforms alternative MD configurations both economically and energetically, desalting water at a cost of less than $15 per cubic meter of product water (both initial salt levels). The highest fraction of total cost for all configurations at each salinity level was attributed to the solar thermal collectors—approximately 25% of the total present value cost. Storing energy in any form was economically unfavorable; the optimization scheme selected the smallest battery and hot water tank size allowed. Direct contact MD consumed significantly more energy (primarily thermal) than other MD forms, leading to higher system economic costs as well.
An Extension of the Rayleigh Quotient to the Spectral Radius of Asymmetric Nonnegative Matrices

The Rayleigh quotient, which provides the classical variational characterization of the spectral radius of Hermitian matrices, can be extended to nonsymmetric nonnegative irreducible matrices, ${\bf A}$, by the inclusion of a diagonal similarity scaling, to yield the variational formula $r({\bf A}) = \sup_{{\bf x} > {\bf 0}} \inf_{{\bf y} > {\bf 0}} {\bf x}^\top {\bf D_y A D_y}^{-1} {\bf x}/({\bf x}^\top {\bf x})$, where ${\bf D_y}$ is the diagonal matrix of the vector ${\bf y}$. Comparison is made to other variational formulae for the spectral radius.
Pediatric oncofertility: an update

Fertility preservation (FP) in pediatric patients with cancer is an evolving field. In this review, we give a short update on recent scientific advances in the practice of pediatric oncofertility, particularly related to the research involving gonadal tissue cryopreservation from prepubertal patients, which remains experimental. We then focus on recent advances in the implementation of formal pediatric oncofertility programs and barriers in the delivery of FP in this patient population. Finally, we include some of the more recent outcomes data from established oncofertility programs that treat pediatric patients.