cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Oxidative stress, inflammation, endothelial dysfunction and incidence of type 2 diabetes

Oxidative stress, inflammation and endothelial dysfunction are interrelated factors in the etiology of cardiovascular disease, but their linkage to type 2 diabetes is less clear. We examined the association of these biomarkers with incident type 2 diabetes (T2D). Analysis of 2339 participants in the community-based coronary artery risk development in young adults (CARDIA) study. Participants (age 40.1 ± 3.6 years, 44 % Black, 58 % women) were free of diabetes, and were followed 10 years. Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) for incident T2D adjusting for the other biomarkers under study, demographic and lifestyle measures, dietary biomarkers, BMI (kg/m2) and metabolic syndrome components. F2-isoprostanes and oxidized LDL (oxidative stress) were positively associated with incident T2D, but the associations were attenuated by adjustment for BMI. C-reactive protein was positively associated with T2D even with full adjustment: HR (95 % CI) = 2.21 (1.26–3.88) for quartile 4 (Q4) v. quartile 1 (Q1). The HR (95 % CI) for T2D for biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction ICAM-1 and E-selectin for Q4 v. Q1 were 1.64 (0.96–2.81) and 1.68 (1.04–2.71) respectively, with full adjustment. Including these two markers in a common risk score incorporating BMI and clinical measures improved the prediction probability of T2D: relative risk for the average person classified up compared to the average person classified down: 1.09, (1.06–1.13), P < 0.0001. Biomarkers of inflammation and endothelial dysfunction were positively associated with incident T2D. ICAM-1 and E-selectin add to the prediction of T2D beyond a common risk score.
A Postmodern Headache

This autoethnographic narrative describes the equivocal process of identifying the source of physical discomfort, navigating interaction with health care institutions, and contemplating treatment. ...
Design, synthesis, and evaluation of 2-diethanolamino-4,8-diheptamethyleneimino-2-(N-aminoethyl-N-ethanolamino)-6-(N,N-diethanolamino)pyrimido[5,4-d]pyrimidine-fluorescein conjugate (8MDP-fluor), as a novel equilibrative nucleoside transporter probe.

Nucleoside transporters are integral membrane glycoproteins that play critical roles in physiological nucleoside and nucleobase fluxes, and influence the efficacy of many nucleoside chemotherapy drugs. Fluorescent reporter ligands/substrates have been shown to be useful in the analysis of nucleoside transporter (NT) protein expression and discovery of new NT inhibitors. In this study, we have developed a novel dipyridamole (DP)-based equilibrative nucleoside transporter 1 (ENT1) fluorescent probe. The potent ENT1 and ENT2 inhibitor analogue of dipyridamole, 2,6-bis(diethanolamino)-4,8-diheptamethyleneiminopyrimido[5,4-d]pyrimidine (4, 8MDP), was modified to replace one β-hydroxyethyl group of the amino substituent at the 2-position with a β-aminoethyl group and then conjugated through the amino group to 6-(fluorescein-5-carboxamido)hexanoyl moiety to obtain a new fluorescent molecule, 2-diethanolamino-4,8-diheptamethyleneimino-2-(N-aminoethyl-N-ethanolamino)-6-(N,N-diethanolamino)pyrimido[5,4-d]pyrimidine...
Dynamic Behavior of a Damping-Enhanced Strengthening System for Seismic Retrofit of RC Columns

In this paper, a damping-enhanced strengthening technique is introduced for seismic retrofitting of reinforced concrete (RC) columns for multiple performance objectives. This technique involves an integrated and compact system of fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) sheets and viscoelastic (VE) layers. The effect of various parameters of VE layers on the dynamic response of a column was studied. Shear strain distribution of VE layers was analyzed to help understand VE material effects on the performance of the column. Numerical results indicated that the proposed technique is very effective in reducing not only the acceleration response but also the displacement response of the column.
THE EFFECT OF STIMULATING VERSUS UNSTIMULATING CATHETERS FOLLOWING UNLTRASOUND-GUIDED FEMORAL NERVE LOCALIZATION

Objective: To compare the analgesic effect of catheterization of femoral nerve sheath guided by ultrasound and assisted with peripheral nerve stimulator in patents undergoing total knee replacement. Method: Fourty ASA Ⅰ~Ⅱ patients, aged 60 ~ 80 years, undergoing elective total knee arthroplasty, were randomized to receive catheterization with either nonstimulationg catheter(Group N) or stimulating catheter(Group S). All patients received preoperative continuous femoral nerve blocks guided with ultrasound and nerve stimulator. The primary outcomes were sensory block success rate and number of attempts. Other outcomes were the quality of analgesia in different times after operation. Results: The time and rates required to position the catheter were greater in Group S than Group N(P 0.05). Quality of analgesia was similar at all time intervals(P 0.05). Conclusions: Ultrasound guidance for femoral nerve block results in similar block characteristics between stimulating and nonstimulating catheters. Nonsitmulating catheters had the superiority when punctured with ultrasound.
Pathogenesis of cerebral infarction and hemorrhage induced by a murine leukemia virus.

Background Inoculation of neonatal BALB/c mice with the Friend murine leukemia virus TR1.3 uniformly induces cerebral infarctions and hemorrhages within 18 days. The primary target of TR1.3 infection are endothelial cells of capillaries and small vessels. Preliminary post-mortem histologic analysis revealed multifocal endothelial cell pathology associated with the presence of thrombi and extravasation of red blood cells into the brain parenchyma. The consequences of viral infection on endothelial cell integrity and its relevance to hemorrhagic and ischemic lesions are unclear. Experimental design Neonatal BALB/c mice were infected with TR1.3 murine leukemia virus and were monitored daily for symptoms of tremor, seizure and paralysis. Diseased mice were killed and the brains prepared for histopathologic analysis and electron microscopy studies. Results Hematoxylin and eosin-stained sections revealed widespread areas of infarction throughout white and grey matter with numerous scattered thrombi. Endothelial cell pathology was widespread and pronounced. This included enlarged cytoplasm, intracytoplasmic clefts, separation of tight junctions, swollen mitochondria, changes to the basal lamina and in many instances the formation of syncytia. Ultrastructural studies identified numerous viral particles within the endothelial cell cytoplasm and budding from the abluminal and luminal cell surfaces. Conclusions These data confirm that TR1.3 virus replicates within endothelial cells and provides the first direct evidence of retrovirus-induced endothelial cell pathology. These results suggest that hemorrhage may be a direct consequence of this endothelial cell pathology, and that endothelial cell damage initiates the formation of thrombi and vessel occlusion that results in multiple cerebral infarctions.
Anthony Powell (1905

Near the end of his first novel, Afternoon Men (1931), Anthony Powell describes an argument between Hector Barlow and Raymond Pringle over Pringle’s girlfriend Harriet Twining, whom he has discovered sitting in the dark, ‘a bit dishevelled’ (173), with Barlow. Powell presents the scene through the eyes of the novel’s protagonist, William Atwater, who recognizes, toward the argument’s end, that ‘It was one of those situations when it did not make much difference whether you were in the right or in the wrong, if regarded purely from the point of view of development.’ (176) Time moves on in any case, without any regard for right or wrong, providing the impartial observer — or the novelist — with new developments to be observed and described. The next morning Pringle writes a suicide note, and goes off to drown himself. But as he swims out to sea he changes his mind, and lets a fishing boat pick him up. His rescue obviates the guilt Barlow had felt upon discovering the note, and cuts the chain of consequences Harriet’s flirtation had threatened.
Contradiction and change: environmental consciousness and the mobilization of law

In June 1969 fire and water mixed in an unlikely combination when the lower Cuyahoga River near Cleveland exploded into flame, causing extensive damage, including the near incineration of two bridges. Due largely to thousands of gallons of oil leaked from an unidentified source, one of nature's most powerful forces had come to mock one of its most vital resources – to say nothing of the nation's pollution control efforts. None of this, of course, could have happened without the intervention of humankind's evolving forms of social organization and technological achievement. Then again, without such sociotechnical evolution, neither could the species have put representatives on the moon, a widely admired feat the U.S. government first accomplished later that same summer. Both events appeared to stretch the limits of the possible. But they tore in opposite directions, underscoring a contradictory logic embedded in social relations. The limits that had constrained environmental law manifested a fundamental tension between economic growth and environmental stability. In favoring growth, however, these limits acted to reproduce contradictory outcomes that increasingly threatened political economic stability. Contradictions in policy and economy The underlying contradictory logic was displayed at all levels of human action, from the interpersonal to the institutional. As the economist John Kenneth Galbraith (1958: 253) had noted in The Affluent Society , “They [the American family] picnic on exquisitely packaged food from a portable icebox by a polluted stream. … They may reflect vaguely on the curious unevenness of their blessing”.
Inpatient Psychiatric Care

In this chapter, research addressing the nature of inpatient psychiatric care of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is reviewed. Following this review, a model for specialized inpatient service is presented. The model is based on the author’s experience developing and running a specialized inpatient psychiatric unit that served adolescents and adults with IDD over a period of 10 years. A number of the patients served had a comorbid ASD (about 30–40 % at various times), and most suffered from one or more of a wide range of medical conditions that complicated their behavioral healthcare. The model described includes elements found in most specialized inpatient psychiatric care settings, and some possibly unique or less commonly employed components. It is generally agreed that inpatient psychiatric treatment is an extreme, restrictive and expensive form of care. Everyone’s goal is to minimize the need for hospitalization, and maximize efforts to prevent acute behavioral and psychiatric episodes. Modern behavioral healthcare models emphasize the need for systems of care that focus on “wellness.” The best crisis intervention strategies are those that prevent crises, a dictum often embraced but rarely operationalized, with some notable exceptions such as S.T.A.R.T. Inpatient care, though necessary at times, is best viewed as one step in a comprehensive continuum of behavioral health care.
Thermal Resistance of Clostridium difficile Spores in Peptone Water and Pork Meat.

ABSTRACT The thermal resistance of four strains of Clostridium difficile spores (three hypervirulent and one nonhypervirulent) in peptone water (PW) and pork meat was evaluated individually at 70, 75, 80, 85, and 90°C using two recovery methods (taurocholate and lysozyme). PW or meat was inoculated with C. difficile spores and mixed to obtain ca. 5.0 log CFU/ml or 4.0 log CFU/g, respectively. The D-values of C. difficile spores in PW ranged from 7.07 to 22.14 h, 1.42 to 3.82 h, 0.35 to 0.59 h, 4.93 to 5.95 min, and 1.16 to 1.76 min at 70, 75, 80, 85, and 90°C, respectively, for the four strains using the taurocholate method. The D-values of the respective C. difficile spores were greater (P ≤ 0.05) using the lysozyme method, especially at higher temperatures (85 and 90°C). Greater thermal resistance of C. difficile spores was observed in meat than in PW using the lysozyme method. Hypervirulence of the C. difficile strains was not associated with greater thermal resistance in meat. The z-values for C. diff...
“I Sent Over These Adventures”: Women in The Female American and The Widow Ranter

Aphra Behn (1640–1689)—novelist, dramatist, poet, and spy—is today best known for her 1688 novel Oroonoko, one of the earliest works set in the West Indies. It follows the tragic life of an enslave...
Prospective evaluation of peripherally inserted central catheter complications in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

We describe a prospective observational cohort (N = 187) to evaluate peripherally inserted central catheter line complications concurrently from the time of placement until removal. A significantly higher percentage of patients who experienced intraluminal thrombosis were receiving total parenteral nutrition ( P ≤ .001) and had a dual lumen catheter ( P = .01). Among patients with a confirmed or suspected infection, a significantly higher proportion received total parenteral nutrition ( P = .01), had dual-lumen catheters ( P = .04), and were neutropenic ( P = .04).
Rural-Urban Differences in Medicare Quality Scores Persist After Adjusting for Sociodemographic and Environmental Characteristics.

Purpose Quality scores are strongly influenced by sociodemographic characteristics and health behaviors, many of which lie outside of the clinician's control. As a result, there is vigorous debate about whether, and how, to risk-adjust quality measures. Yet, rurality has been largely missing from this debate, even though population and environmental characteristics are demonstrably different by rurality. We addressed this gap by examining the influence of county-level population sociodemographic, environmental, and health characteristics on 3 Medicare quality measures. Methods We used a cross-sectional analysis of 2016 County Health Rankings data to estimate differences in 3 Medicare quality scores (preventable hospitalizations, HbA1c monitoring, and mammography screening) by rurality. We then adjusted for county-level sociodemographic and environmental characteristics in multivariable regression models in order to see whether the association between rurality and quality was impacted. Findings Both micropolitan and noncore counties exhibited lower quality scores than metropolitan counties for all 3 measures. After adjustment, noncore counties still had poorer quality on all 3 measures, while micropolitan counties improved on 2 measures. Several county-level sociodemographic and environmental characteristics were associated with quality, although the direction of association depended on the quality measure. Conclusions Differences in Medicare quality scores by rurality cannot be entirely explained by differences in population or environmental characteristics. Still, to the extent that clinicians are evaluated—and paid—based on measures that are influenced by both population sociodemographic characteristics and geographic location without adequate risk adjustment, the challenges of delivering care in rural areas will only be exacerbated.
A Robot a Day Keeps the Blues Away

This paper presents the results of a pilot study measuring and evaluating the intervention effects of voluntary in-home use of a socially assistive robot by older adults diagnosed with depression. The study was performed with 8 older adult patients over the course of one month, during which participants were provided the robot to use as they desired in their own homes. During the in-home study, several types of data was collected, including robotic sensor data from a collar worn by the robot, daily activity levels via a wristband (Jawbone) worn by the older adults, and weekly health outcome measures. Results of data analysis of the robotic intervention suggest that: 1) the use of the Paro robot in participants' homes significantly reduced the symptoms of depression for a majority of patients, and that 2) weekly fluctuations in patient depression levels can be predicted using a combination of robotic sensor data and Jawbone activity data (i.e. measuring their general activity levels and their interactions with the robot).
Strain coupling of oxygen non-stoichiometry in perovskite thin films

The effects of strain and oxygen vacancies on perovskite thin films have been studied in great detail over the past decades and have been treated separately from each other. While epitaxial strain has been realized as a tuning knob to tailor the functional properties of correlated oxides, oxygen vacancies are usually regarded as undesirable and detrimental. In transition metal oxides, oxygen defects strongly modify the properties and functionalities via changes in oxidation states of the transition metals. However, such coupling is not well understood in epitaxial films, but rather deemed as cumbersome or experimental artifact. Only recently it has been recognized that lattice strain and oxygen non-stoichiometry are strongly correlated in a vast number of perovskite systems and that this coupling can be beneficial for information and energy technologies. Recent experimental and theoretical studies have focused on understanding the correlated phenomena between strain and oxygen vacancies for a wide range of perovskite systems. These correlations not only include the direct relationship between elastic strain and the formation energy of oxygen vacancies, but also comprise highly complex interactions such as strain-induced phase transitions due to oxygen vacancy ordering. Therefore, we aim in this review to give a comprehensive overview on the coupling between strain and oxygen vacancies in perovskite oxides and point out the potential applications of the emergent functionalities strongly coupled to oxygen vacancies.
Alterations of ocular nitric oxide synthase in human glaucoma.

Purpose. The authors recently reported that sites of outflow resistance and regulation in the human eye are highly enriched in the endothelial isoform of nitric oxide (NO) synthase (ecNOS). In vasculature, ecNOS activation is associated with altered vascular resistance and, in the stomach, defects in NO are associated with pathologic gastric hypertension. Because human glaucoma sometimes is associated with an increase in intraocular pressure and resistance changes in the aqueous outflow pathway (OP), the authors have investigated the possibility that alterations in NO or defects in NO-synthesizing tissues might exist in glaucomatous eyes. Methods. Occurrence, distribution, and extent of sites of ocular NO production in the anterior segments of 16 normal eyes (10 patients) and 17 eyes (12 patients) with a history of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) were determined using the NO-indicator marker, NADPH-diaphorase (NADPH-d), which is known to colocalize with ecNOS immunoreactivity. Analysis of NADPH-d reactivity in tissues was combined with examination of overall cell distribution and use of neuron-specific markers. Remlts. The ciliary muscle (CM) and OP of glaucomatous eyes showed marked differences in the amount and distribution of NADPH-d and alterations in gross structure. NADPH-d reactivity was decreased in trabecular meshwork (TM) and Schlemm's canal, and there was a marked reduction of anterior longitudinal CM fibers that insert near (and may normally regulate resistance in) the TM. Conclusion. Abnormalities in NO or NO-containing cells occur in POAG. These abnormalities may be causally related to glaucoma or may be a manifestation of the disease or its treatment. In either case, such alterations, together with recent pharmacologic studies showing that NO-mimicking nitrovasodilators alter IOP, indicate that NO has relevance to the course, treatment, or both, of some forms of this disease. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 1995 ;36 :1774-1784.
Indoor communications networks realized through hybrid free-space optical and Wi-Fi links

Recently, free-space optical (FSO) networks have been investigated as a potential replacement for traditional WiFi networks due to their large bandwidth potentials. However, FSO networks often suffer from a lack of mobility. We present a hybrid free-space optical and radio frequency (RF) system that we have named WiFO, which seamlessly integrates free-space optical links with pre-existing WiFi networks. The free-space optical link in this system utilizes infrared LEDs operating at a wavelength of 850nm and is capable of transmitting 50Mbps over a three-meter distance. In this hybrid system, optical transmitters are embedded periodically throughout the ceiling of a workspace. Each transmitter directs an optical signal downward in a diffuse light cone, establishing a line of sight optical link. Line of sight communications links have an intrinsic physical layer of security due to the fact that a user must be directly in the path of transmission to access the link; however, this feature also poses a challenge for mobility. In our system, if the free-space optical link is interrupted, a control algorithm redirects traffic over a pre-existing WiFi link ensuring uninterrupted transmissions. After data packets are received, acknowledgments are sent back to a central access point via a WiFi link. As the demand for wireless bandwidth continues to increase exponentially, utilizing the unregulated bandwidth contained within optical spectrum will become necessary. Our fully functional hybrid free-space optical and WiFi prototype system takes full advantage of the untapped bandwidth potential in the optical spectrum, while also maintaining the mobility inherent in WiFi networks.
Utilizing NDVI and remote sensing data to identify spatial variability in plant stress as influenced by management

Understanding plant stress and its spatial distribution has been a goal of both crop physiologists and producers. Recognizing variability in plant growth early can aid in identifying yield-limiting factors such as soils, nutrient availability, and/or environmental limitations. Active sensors have been used to gather reflectance data from crop canopies and to calculate NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetative Index). NDVI has been associated with percent ground cover, LAI, biomass accumulation, and nitrogen use efficiency. This study contends that NDVI can be used to characterize spatial variability in plant growth and is correlated with grain yield. NDVI values were measured bi-weekly through the growing seasons of 2010 and 2011in corn (Zea mays L.) grown at a location with soil and topographic variability. Grain yield was collected following each growing season. Management practices and characteristics of the site were associated with each plot in order to identify contributing factors to spatial variations in NDVI values. Two cropping rotations were used, continuous corn, and a corn soybean small grain/soybean double crop. Results showed differences in corn growth at different landscape positions could be identified with NDVI. The strength of this relationship was greatest eight weeks after planting. A relationship was also established between NDVI and grain yield. NDVI measurements can be used to identify the variability of grain yield in continuous corn production when taken following the accumulation of 800 to 900 growing degree days. This demonstrated success presents the opportunity to use this technology in characterizing production potential and making managerial decisions across a landscape.
Keratinocyte Migration in a Three-Dimensional In Vitro Wound Healing Model Co-Cultured with Fibroblasts

Because three-dimensional (3D) models more closely mimic native tissues, one of the goals of 3D in vitro tissue models is to aid in the development and toxicity screening of new drug therapies. In this study, a 3D skin wound healing model comprising of a collagen type I construct with fibrin-filled defects was developed. Optical imaging was used to measure keratinocyte migration in the presence of fibroblasts over 7 days onto the fibrin-filled defects. Additionally, cell viability and growth of fibroblasts and keratinocytes was measured using the alamarBlue® assay and changes in the mechanical stiffness of the 3D construct was monitored using compressive indentation testing. Keratinocyte migration rate was significantly increased in the presence of fibroblasts with the cells reaching the center of the defect as early as day 3 in the co-culture constructs compared to day 7 for the control keratinocyte monoculture constructs. Additionally, constructs with the greatest rate of keratinocyte migration had reduced cell growth. When fibroblasts were cultured alone in the wound healing construct, there was a 1.3 to 3.4-fold increase in cell growth and a 1.2 to 1.4-fold increase in cell growth for keratinocyte monocultures. However, co-culture constructs exhibited no significant growth over 7 days. Finally, mechanical testing showed that fibroblasts and keratinocytes had varying effects on matrix stiffness with fibroblasts degrading the constructs while keratinocytes increased the construct’s stiffness. This 3D in vitro wound healing model is a step towards developing a mimetic construct that recapitulates the complex microenvironment of healing wounds and could aid in the early studies of novel therapeutics that promote migration and proliferation of epithelial cells.
Hepatitis B: The Western Perspective

Chronic infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) is present in approximately 257 million individuals worldwide and is a major cause of liver disease, liver cancer, and liver-related mortality. The prevalence of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) varies by region, and is often difficult to define due to limited surveillance. In highly endemic regions in Europe and the Americas, which have immigrants from endemic regions, a predominant cause of transmission remains perinatal infection. In low prevalence regions, sexual transmission has historically been a major source of HBV acquisition. More recently, implementation of widespread vaccination campaigns in some regions has dramatically reduced HBV prevalence and rates of acute HBV in children and young adults. However, due to high-risk behaviors and limited access to health services, marginalized populations—such as injection drug users (IDUs) and incarcerated individuals—continue to suffer from disproportionate rates of infection relative to the general population, with new outbreaks of HBV in IDUs in the United States becoming a health care crisis.
Network analysis of the NetHealth data: exploring co-evolution of individuals’ social network positions and physical activities

Understanding the relationship between individuals’ social networks and health could help devise public health interventions for reducing incidence of unhealthy behaviors or increasing prevalence of healthy ones. In this context, we explore the co-evolution of individuals’ social network positions and physical activities. We are able to do so because the NetHealth study at the University of Notre Dame has generated both high-resolution longitudinal social network (e.g., SMS) data and high-resolution longitudinal health-related behavioral (e.g., Fitbit physical activity) data. We examine trait differences between (i) users whose social network positions (i.e., centralities) change over time versus those whose centralities remain stable, (ii) users whose Fitbit physical activities change over time versus those whose physical activities remain stable, and (iii) users whose centralities and their physical activities co-evolve, i.e., correlate with each other over time. We find that centralities of a majority of all nodes change with time. These users do not show any trait difference compared to time-stable users. However, if out of all users whose centralities change with time we focus on those whose physical activities also change with time, then the resulting users are more likely to be introverted than time-stable users. Moreover, users whose centralities and physical activities both change with time and whose evolving centralities are significantly correlated (i.e., co-evolve) with evolving physical activities are more likely to be introverted as well as anxious compared to those users who are time-stable and do not have a co-evolution relationship. Our network analysis framework reveals several links between individuals’ social network structure, health-related behaviors, and the other (e.g., personality) traits. In the future, our study could lead to development of a predictive model of social network structure from behavioral/trait information and vice versa.
Comparative assessment of einkorn and emmer wheat phenomes: I. Plant architecture

The domestication syndrome of wheat was based on genetically-mediated mutation(s) in reproductive traits with no due consideration to traits that comprise the plant “phenome” as an abstract expression of phenotypic architecture and a central component of the plant phenotype. The first of multi-part study reports on genetically and phenotypically variable germplasm source of diploid einkorn (Triticum monococcum L. subsp. monococcum) and tetraploid emmer wheat [Triticum turgidum subsp. dicoccon (Schrank) Thell.]. The germplasm was phenotyped for architectural (plant, tillers, leaves) and reproductive (spike, spikelet, and kernel) components of its phenome to quantify, describe, and contrast plant architecture of both species, and estimate the level of genetic divergence of emmer from einkorn due to polyploidy. Inter-specific variation for all architectural and reproductive components exhibited significant differences; while, intra-specific phenotypic variation estimates in both species decreased as follows: kernels > spikelets > spikes; and smaller values were estimated for leaves > plants > tillers. Diploid and tetraploid architectural modules, expressed as loadings on principal components, were significantly different; einkorn and emmer were 97.1 and 89.8 correctly classified, respectively, and were significantly separated at a multivariate level (Mahalanobis D2 = 127.5; p < 0.001). More traits exhibited larger magnitude and expressed larger genotypic variation due to polyploidy; however, phenotypic and genotypic variation, as well as heritability of these traits displayed different patterns, with large differences found for leaf area index and tillers per plant between species. Reduced major axis analysis of inter-specific functional relationships suggested that phenotypic and reproductive traits were divided almost equally between allometric and isometric patterns. Paired comparisons between species suggested that relationships between spikelet and kernel traits in each species were close (r = 0.54–0.97; p < 0.05). However, the magnitude of trait estimates in pairwise comparisons between ploidy levels were not in unison; the magnitude of almost all spikelet traits, but not kernel traits in emmer exceeded their counterparts in einkorn. Polyploidy caused phenotypic increases in traits that can support larger grain yield, including stems, peduncles, leaves and spikes, but not tillers; whereas, the species varied in the magnitude and distribution of genetic variances across their multivariate phenome space. Indicators were identified for the development of novel hulled wheat idiotypes with larger yield potential and wide adaptation.
Comparison of CDH1 Gene Hypermethylation Status in Blood and Serum among Gastric Cancer Patients

Hypermethylation is epigenetic alteration, well known for gene silencing. CHD1 gene is known as invasion and tumor suppressor gene, decreased expression due to hypermethylation could promote tumor cell invasion and metastasis. Present study designed to investigate the CDH1 gene promoter hypermethylation status by methylation specific polymerase chain reaction in 100 newly diagnosed gastric cancer patients. 53% of hypermethylation was observed in DNA extracted from blood in Gastric cancer patients while 66% was observed in serum based DNA. Significant differences in CDH1gene promoter hypermethylation was observed in serum based DNA extracted from Gastric cancer patients. Patients in early stage (I & II) vs advanced stage (III & IV), distant organ metastases vs no metastases had 60% vs 7% and 42% 24% of CDH1 promoter hypermethylation in serum DNA (p = 0.006, 0.001) respectively. Patients who were with lymph node invasion, loss of appetite, loss of weight had 55%, 47%, 61% CDH1 gene promoter hypermethylation compare to who were not with lymph node invasion, loss of appetite, loss of weight had 11%, 19%, 5% of hypermethylation and these differences was found to be significant. Strong association was observed with overall median survival of patients (p < 0.0001). Patients who had CDH1 gene promoter hypermethylation in serum based DNA showed poor overall median survival (14.3 months) and unmethylated patients had better overall median survival (33.2 months). CDH1 hypermethylation status was found to be associated with advancement of disease, distant organ metastases and lymph node invasion in Gastric cancer patients.
Propagation of Castanopsis sclerophylla by Stem Cuttings

Abstract Two experiments were conducted to develop a protocol for propagation of Castanopsis sclerophylla (Lindley & Paxton) Schottky by stem cuttings. In the first experiment completed in 2000, st...
Equine fetal genotyping via aspiration of yolk-sac fluid at 22–28 days of gestation

Abstract Fetal genotyping has important applications in the horse, but currently necessitates embryo recovery and biopsy. We investigated whether fetal genotyping could be performed on yolk-sac fluid recovered from pregnant mares via transvaginal aspiration. Fluid was collected before Day 30 to provide results before establishment of the endometrial cups (Day 37). Genotyping and assessment of maternal DNA contamination was performed by analyzing histograms of PCR results for 19 loci. In Exp. 1, mares underwent yolk-sac aspiration on Days 22–28 of gestation. Fluid (0.56–1.02 mL) was recovered from five of seven mares. Four of the five mares maintained pregnancy. One pregnancy was electively terminated at Day 75; the other three mares delivered healthy foals. Extraction of DNA from the fluid sample followed by direct PCR allowed the highest rate of determination of fetal alleles. Fetal genotype was correctly determined in three samples, and for 14/19 alleles in one sample. In Exp. 2, we evaluated whether recovery of more fluid (up to 1.6 mL), and fractionation of the sample, would minimize maternal DNA contamination. One of four mares maintained pregnancy. Evaluation at informative loci showed no difference in maternal contamination among fractions. We determined that mares can maintain pregnancy after aspiration of yolk-sac fluid, and that fetal genotype can be accurately determined from the sample obtained. Further work is needed on factors affecting maintenance of pregnancy after the procedure. The ability to access the yolk sac in early pregnancy opens the door to novel potential clinical and research applications.
Nanoparticle diffusion during gelation of tetra poly(ethylene glycol) provides insight into nanoscale structural evolution

Single particle tracking (SPT) of PEG grafted nanoparticles (NPs) was used to examine the gelation of tetra poly(ethylene glycol) (TPEG) succinimidyl glutarate (TPEG-SG) and amine (TPEG-A) terminated 4-armed stars. As concentration was decreased from 40 to 20 mg mL−1, the onset of network formation, tgel, determined from rheometry increased from less than 2 to 44 minutes. NP mobility increased as polymer concentration decreased in the sol state, but remained diffusive at times past the tgel determined from rheometry. Once in the gel state, NP mobility decreased, became sub-diffusive, and eventually localized in all concentrations. The NP displacement distributions were investigated to gain insight into the nanoscale environment. In these relatively homogeneous gels, the onset of sub-diffusivity was marked by a rapid increase in dynamic heterogeneity followed by a decrease consistent with a homogeneous network. We propose a gelation mechanism in which clusters initially form a heterogeneous structure which fills in to form a fully gelled relatively homogenous network. This work aims to examine the kinetics of TPEG gelation and the homogeneity of these novel gels on the nanometer scale, which will aid in the implementation of these gels in biomedical or filtration applications.
A novel simulation-based framework for sensor error impact analysis in smart building systems: A case study for a demand-controlled ventilation system

Abstract Sensors are one of the fundamental components for sensor-rich controls in buildings but are prone to different errors. Existing studies show that sensor errors hold a place among top-priority faults in building systems. Before we take countermeasures to mitigate the sensor errors, it is vital to prioritize key sensors and quantify the collective impacts of concurrent sensor errors. In response to this, a simulation-based methodology is introduced to conduct a comprehensive sensor error impact analysis in building systems, which adds a stochastic sensor prioritization through a sensitivity analysis on top of a commonly used deterministic sensor error quantification. The synergies of these two parts help better interpret the sensor error impacts on building energy consumption, ventilation performance, thermal comfort, etc. A sensor-rich CO2-based Demand-Controlled Ventilation system is used as a case study to demonstrate the viability of the methodology as a proof-of-the-concept. The results show that the energy savings potential and ventilation performance are mostly influenced by the accuracy of the AHU outdoor airflow sensors. The accuracy of zone level airflow sensors has a negligible impact on both energy savings and ventilation performance. The accuracy of zone CO2 sensors has more influence on the ventilation performance compared with the accuracy of zone airflow sensors. Compared with the baseline case with zero errors, the largest deviation percentages could reach 16.90% and 94.32%, respectively, in terms of the Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) annual energy consumption and the Outdoor Air Ratio (OAR) when multiple key sensors suffer from normal error intensities simultaneously.
Development of an integrated hardware and software platform for the rapid detection of cerebral aneurysm

Cerebral aneurysm is defined as a weakened portion of an artery in the brain. Its rupture leads to a specific case of bleeding known as a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Literature indicates that a significant portion of patients suffering from SAH are initially misdiagnosed and subjected to the risks associated with aneurysm re-rupture. Traditional methods of detection that are recommended by the physicians include computer tomography (CT) scan, lumbar puncture (LP) and angiogram. Unfortunately, CT scan is ineffective after 12 hours, and angiogram only applicable in cases of finding the aneurysm before surgery. This paper discusses the invasive technique of lumbar puncture because of the technical limitations in performing a quick and objective evaluation. Bilirubin, resulting from the chemical decomposition of whole blood is a clear indicator a hemorrhage. This metabolite can be detected after a spinal tap, by differentiating its optical signature from that of fresh whole blood. We introduce the development of a diagnostic system that is based on visible spectroscopy to quickly and objectively assess low-blood volume SAH. The system integrates innovative hardware and a powerful software interface. The paper explores algorithms that accounts for the noise and distortion from blood in CSF. Furthermore, a hardware platform is introduced, that is portable and user-friendly composed of specific components designed to have the sensitivity and specificity.
Abdellah Taïa, La mélancolie et le cri

Moroccan writer Abdellah Taia resides quite literally at the crossroads of the north/south intersection. In his work, he considers questions of otherness and belonging in both Maghrebi and French/E...
Achilles Injury and Access to Care in South Florida

Introduction. Despite the amount of orthopaedic research evaluating access to care based on insurance status, no study quantifies the effects of insurance status on the care of acute Achilles tendon ruptures. Methods. Using Current Procedural Terminology codes, we identified all patients who underwent surgical management of Achilles tendon rupture between December 31, 2013, and December 31, 2018, and followed-up at either a county hospital-based orthopaedic surgery clinic and/or private university-based clinic. Inclusion criteria included patients who (1) underwent surgical management of an Achilles tendon rupture during this time period and (2) were at least 18 years of age at the time of surgery. A univariate 2-tailed t test was used to compare various groups. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. Results. When compared to adequately insured patients (private and Medicare), underinsured patients (uninsured and Medicaid) experienced a significantly greater time from the date of injury to first clinic visit (14.5 days vs 5.2 days, P < .001), first clinic visit to surgery (34.6 days vs 4.8 days, P < .002), injury to surgery date (48.9 days vs 9.8 days, P < .001), initial presentation to when magnetic resonance imaging was obtained (48.1 days vs 1.9 days, P < .002). Conclusions. Disparities in access to care for Achilles tendon ruptures are intimately related to insurance status. Uninsured and Medicaid patients are subject to institutional delays and decreased access to care when compared to patients with private insurance.Levels of Evidence: Level III: Prognostic, retrospective.
Prevalence and hospital charges from firearm injuries treated in US emergency departments from 2006 to 2016

Abstract Background Age- and intent-related differences in the burden and costs of firearm injury treated in emergency departments are not well-documented. Methods We performed a serial cross-sectional study of the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Program Nationwide Emergency Department Survey from 2006 to 2016. We used International Classification of Diseases diagnoses codes revisions 9 and 10 to identify firearm injuries. We calculated survey-weighted counts, proportions, means, and rates and confidence intervals of national, age-specific (0–4, 5–9, 10–14, 15–17, 18–44, 45–64, 65–84, >84) and intent-specific (assault, unintentional, suicide, undetermined) emergency department discharges for firearm injuries. We used survey-weighted regression to assess temporal trends. Results There was a total of 868,483 (25.5 per 100,000) emergency department visits for firearm injuries from 2006 to 2016, and 7.8% died in the emergency department. Overall, firearm injury rates remained steady (P = .78). The largest burden was among those 25 to 44 years of age, but their rates remained stable (10.8 per 100,000). Overall assault injuries declined from 39.7% to 36.4%, and overall unintentional injuries increased from 46.4% to 54.7%. Legal-intervention injuries declined from 0.6 to 0.3 per 100,000. The charges (total $4,059,070,364, $369,006,396/year) increased across time in age and intent groups. The mean predicted charges increased from $1,922 to $3,348 in those alive versus $3,741 to $6,515 among those who died. Conclusion Interventions and programs to manage the consequences of firearm injury in persons who live with ongoing morbidity and economic burden are warranted.
Sustainable Federated Learning.

Potential environmental impact of machine learning by large-scale wireless networks is a major challenge for the sustainability of future smart ecosystems. In this paper, we introduce sustainable machine learning in federated learning settings, using rechargeable devices that can collect energy from the ambient environment. We propose a practical federated learning framework that leverages intermittent energy arrivals for training, with provable convergence guarantees. Our framework can be applied to a wide range of machine learning settings in networked environments, including distributed and federated learning in wireless and edge networks. Our experiments demonstrate that the proposed framework can provide significant performance improvement over the benchmark energy-agnostic federated learning settings.
The health secure city: cities as conquerors of disease

Abstract In this final chapter, we reflect on the state of urban health security and themes common to the chapters included in this volume. Previously, cities used a combination of public health interventions and technological advancements to overcome infectious disease challenges. The dynamic and multifaceted challenges cities face today, including health security and pandemic preparedness, require new, pragmatic approaches. To this end, and as discussed in previous chapters, cities around the world are proactively preparing for what they perceive to be the greatest health threats, exercising plans and conducting simulations, actively reviewing the response to actual events to inform future actions, and creating new tools and approaches for addressing infectious disease threats. Other trends and approaches that could also factor into improving urban health security include urban networks – which may benefit the sharing of knowledge and resources, as well as transform the governance of urban public health – and innovative financing models – which will be required for building and sustaining urban health security capacities. While none of the specific approaches and models discussed in this volume represent a panacea, if used in combination, they could substantially improve both local and global health security and prepare our world for future health security threats.
Of worms and men

Following the spectacular success of molecular genetics in deciphering the genetic code in the 1960s, several of its leading practitioners felt sufficiently emboldened to use their newly acquired skills to move on and study that most enigmatic of biological organs - the brain. Sydney Brenner's approach was to focus on Caenorhabditis elegans, a nematode that is genetically tractable, has a nervous system that generates a rich repertoire of behaviours yet is small enough to allow anatomical reconstructions with ultrastructural precision. Through force of personality and some inspired pioneering studies, Brenner managed to ignite a bonfire of enthusiasm for this organism, which has resulted in its nervous system becoming the best understood of that in any organism. Initially, many were skeptical that this rather strange structure with just a few hundred neurons would yield insights that were relevant to vertebrate nervous systems. However, fifty years on we know that the basic repertoire of molecular components of worm and human nervous systems are remarkably similar. Furthermore, worms have a similar diversity of these components rather than a primitive sub-set. It appears that the fundamental difference in a vertebrate nervous system is a huge expansion of the neural units that comprise a basic brain such as that exemplified in C. elegans.