cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Definite and Nondefinite Superlatives and NPI Licensing

. We observe that superlative noun phrases are often not definite and may be headed by an indefinite determiner and other determiners. We attribute this fact to the semantics of the superlative morpheme which creates a (not necessarily singleton) set of individuals. A welcome prediction made by this proposal is that negative polarity items (NPIs) are licensed in the postnominal position only when the determiner that precedes the superlative morpheme is definite, because only then does the superlative morpheme have the semantic property required for NPI licensing—namely, Strawson Downward Entailingness. We explore some semantic and syntactic consequences of the proposal.
Male Seminole Bat Winter Roost-Site Selection in a Managed Forest

Abstract Understanding year-round roost-site selection is essential for managing forest bat populations. From January to March, 2004 to 2006, we used radiotelemetry to investigate winter roost-site selection by Seminole bats (Lasiurus seminolus) on an intensively managed landscape with forested corridors in southeastern South Carolina, USA. We modeled roost-site selection with logistic regression and used Akaike's Information Criterion for small samples (AICc) and Akaike weights to select models relating roost-site selection to plot- and landscape-level variables. We tracked 20 adult male bats to 71 individual roosts. Bats used a variety of roosting structures, including the canopy of overstory trees, understory vegetation, pine (Pinus spp.) needle clusters, and leaf litter. Roost height, structure type, and habitat type were influenced by changes in minimum nightly temperature. On warmer nights, bats selected taller trees in mature forest stands, but when minimum nightly temperatures were <4° C, bats typ...
Autoradiographic localization of cerebellar excitatory amino acid binding sites in the mouse

Ahstraet-We have investigated the cellular localization of cerebellar excitatory amino acid binding sites in normal mice, in mice deficient in granule cells and, perhaps, stellate, basket and Golgi cells (granuloprival mice) and in mioe lacking Purkinje cells. in the molecular layer of normal mouse oerebelhun, the q~~~a~-~n~ti~ binding sites were the predominant type of excitatory amino acid reoeptor and there were relatively few ~-me~yl-pupate or ~~t~~~tive binding sites. The granule cell layer of notmal mice contained a mixture of all 3 types, the N-methyl-n-aspartate-sensitive binding sites being predominant. In the molecular layer of granuloprival mice, the number of quisqualate-sensitive binding sites was increased to 214% of control (P <t&01), whereas N-methyl-n-aspartate-sensitive binding sites were M to 62% of control (P <O.OOl) and kainate-sensitive binding sites were unchanged. In the granule cell layer of these mice, quisqualate-sensitive binding sites were increased to 200% (P < 0.01). ~-~~yl-~~~sitive binding sites were decreased to 47% (P < 0.001) and kainate-sensitive binding sites wem decmaaed to 49% (P < 0.01) of their respective control values. in the molecular layer of mice lacking Purkinje cells, quisqualate-sensitive binding sites were reduced to 29% (P < 0.001) of control and N-methyl-D-aspartatsensitive binding sites were unchanged. In the granule cell layer of these mice, neither quisqualate nor N-methyl-D-aspa~~-sensitive binding sites were ChangCd. These mults suggest that (1) quisqualate-sensitive binding sites are located principally on dendrites of Purkinje cells and that they up-regulate after deaEerentation; (2) ~-~~yl-~~~~sitive binding sites are located on granule cells and, perhaps, stellate, basket and Golgi cells, and (3) kainate binding sites are located on cell bodies of granule and, perhaps, Golgi cells. Glutamate, aspartate and perhaps some closely related compounds are ~ou~t to be major excitatory neurotransmitters in the central nervous system. 1532 The actions of these excitatory amino acids are mediated by at least three distinct receptors named for the selmtive agonists N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA), quisqualate (QA) and lcainate (KA)?45s*s2 The existence of multiple classes of binding sites, all of which bind glutamate, raises the possibility that each class of binding sites may have a distinct function and/or that each has a different neuronal or regional localization. Recently, autoradiographic methods have been developed to localize, characterixe and quantify these binding sitesW*** The cerebellar cortex is a convenient region in which to study excitatory amino acid binding sites because of its relatively simple, laminar cyto
Massively parallel software rendering for visualizing large-scale data sets

We describe two highly scalable, parallel software volume-rendering algorithms - one renders unstructured grid volume data and the other renders isosurfaces. We designed one algorithm for distributed-memory parallel architectures to render unstructured grid volume data. We designed the other for shared-memory parallel architectures to directly render isosurfaces. Through the discussion of these two algorithms, we address the most relevant issues when using massively parallel computers to render large-scale volumetric data. The focus of our discussion is direct rendering of volumetric data.
Blinded prospective comparison of the performance of 22-gauge and 25-gauge needles in endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration of the pancreas and peri-pancreatic lesions.

Both 22- and 25-gauge needles are used for endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided fine-needle aspiration (FNA) of lesions, yet limited data exist on whether either offers an advantage over the other in terms of specimen cellularity and quality. The aim of this study was to compare sample quality for 22- and 25-gauge needles in EUS-guided FNA of pancreatic and peri-pancreatic lesions. Between October 2005 and June 2006, 12 patients with pancreatic or peripancreatic lesions underwent EUS-guided FNA with both 22- and 25-gauge Wilson-Cook Echotip needles. All procedures were performed with an Olympus linear echoendoscope by the same endoscopist to eliminate operator-dependent variability. Needle order was selected randomly, and two passes were made with each needle, consisting of ten uniform to-and-fro movements on each pass with 10-ml syringe suction. The specimens were immediately stained and independently reviewed by two cytopathologists, who were blinded to the needle used. Cellularity was graded as 0 to 6, with 6 being most cellular. No statistically significant difference in cellularity was detected between the two needle size groups by cytologist 1 (mean difference, 0.04; 95% confidence interval [CI], −1.22 to 1.30; p = 0.94) or by cytologist 2 (mean difference, 0.2; 95% CI, −1.23 to 1.65; p = 0.76). When the data from both cytologists were combined, no significant difference in cellularity was detected between the two needle sizes (mean difference, 0.125; 95% CI, −1.22 to 1.47; p = 0.84). No significant difference in cellularity was detected between cytologists 1 and 2 (mean difference, 0.17; 95% CI, −0.15 to 0.48; p = 0.27). When the order in which needles were used was compared, no significant difference in cellularity was detected (p = 0.75). Three mechanical failures occurred with 25-gauge needles, but none occurred with 22-gauge needles. The visibility of the needles on EUS did not differ. Cytologic diagnoses were achieved in all cases: seven pancreatic adenocarcinomas, one pancreatic giant cell carcinoma, one pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor, one metastatic non-small cell carcinoma, one metastatic colon carcinoma, and one pancreatitis. There were no procedure-related complications. Both FNA needles provided accurate diagnoses in all patients. There was no significant difference between the 22- and 25-gauge needle groups in the independent interpretation of two cytopathologists with respect to cellular yield and ability to render a diagnosis.
A comparative analysis of the stability of the chymotrypsin charge triad

The energetics of the α-chymotrypsin charge triad, taking into account the interaction energies of the components of the charge relay system and its surrounding environment, have been calculated. These results are compared with corresponding ab-initio MO energies and thermodynamic values as taken from the literature. The following conclusions can be drawn from this analysis. The ab-initio and interaction calculations yield results which are in good agreement, suggesting that the latter, while computationally easy for implementations, is reliably good for the study of large systems such as enzymes. The theoretical prediction for the most stable state of the charge relay system depends upon the model assumed for the environment. In keeping with available crystallographic data, and thereby allowing for partial hydration of the serine residue, the zwitter ionic state is found to be the most stable.
Time-Resolved MRI Oximetry for Quantifying CMRO2 and Vascular Reactivity

This brief review of magnetic resonance susceptometry summarizes the methods conceived in the authors' laboratory during the past several years. This article shows how venous oxygen saturation is quantified in large draining veins by field mapping and how this information, in concert with simultaneous measurement of cerebral blood flow, yields cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen, the brain's rate of oxygen consumption. The accuracy of this model-based approach in which the blood vessel is approximated as a long, straight cylinder, for which an analytical solution for the induced field exists, is discussed. It is shown that the approach is remarkably robust, allowing for time-resolved quantification of whole-brain metabolism at rest and in response to stimuli, thereby providing detailed information on cerebral physiology in health and disease not previously amenable by noninvasive methods.
Mayo clinic recognized by 3 certifying boards for quality improvement activities.

The American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM), the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM), and the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP)—the nation’s 3 largest physician certifying boards—today announced that Mayo Clinic has been approved as a Portfolio Sponsor of Maintenance of Certification
The Evolution of Dominant Market Shares: The Role of Network Effects

This research uses simulation models to examine how dominant market shares can arise from network effects, which occur when the utility a consumer receives from a product is affected by whether others are using the same product. We demonstrate that network effects can have a substantial impact on the evolution of market share, but that the impact is sensitive to a firm’s initial position and the consumer decision-making process. We also examine the merits of investing in product quality versus investing in early acquisition of market share in markets influenced by network effects, and how arguably inferior products may dominate markets.
Closed-Form Estimation of Multiple Change-Point Models

Identifying discontinuities (or change-points) in otherwise stationary time series is a powerful analytic tool. This paper outlines a general strategy for identifying an unknown number of change-points using elementary principles of Bayesian statistics. Using a strategy of binary partitioning by marginal likelihood, a time series is recursively subdivided on the basis of whether additional subdivisions (and thus increased model complexity) yield a justified improvement in the marginal model likelihood. When this approach is combined with the use of conjugate priors, it yields the Conjugate Partitioned Recursion (CPR) algorithm, which identifies change-points without computationally intensive numerical integration. Using the CPR algorithm, methods are described for specifying change-point models drawn from a host of familiar distributions, both discrete (binomial, geometric, Poisson) and continuous (exponential, Gaussian, uniform, and multiple linear regression), as well as multivariate distributions (multinomial, multivariate normal, and multivariate linear regression). Methods by which the CPR algorithm could be extended or modified are discussed, and several detailed applications to data published in psychology and biomedical engineering are described.
Quantum image processing

Advantages of imaging with nonclassical light include the reduction of quantum noise (squeezing) and the availability of quantum interference for multi-color coherent processing. Quantum entanglement can be used for absolute (no calibration) measurement, and for distributed imaging. It offers possibilities for accessing information that is not retrievable by ANY classical optical means. This talk is an overview of the field of quantum imaging and image processing.
Accessory Soleus Presenting as a Posterior Ankle Mass: A Case Report and Literature Review:

The accessory soleus muscle is a rare anatomic variant that may present as a mass in the posterior-medial aspect of the ankle in young adults. The presence of such a mass may result in pain and difficulty with running. We present a case of accessory soleus muscle in a 21-year-old soldier and review the literature. We present the first magnetic resonance imaging studies in the American literature, to our knowledge, of this unusual anomaly.
Application of water rights priority and natural priority orders to river and reservoir operation systems

Surface water rights in Texas are developed based on “Prior Appropriation Doctrine”. The Texas Water Availability Model, a computer-based simulation model based on water rights priority order, has ...
Compulsive Buying Behavior: Terminology and an Appucation to New Media such as the Internet

This paper examines the various terminology used to describe deviant consumer behavior and distinguishes compulsive buying from the other labels. Although most research on this behavior examines in-store purchasing, this paper recognizes the possible problem of compulsive buying behavior occurring through the use of various media, such as the Internet.
Dynamic Stabilization of Expressed Proteins in Engineered Diatom Biosilica

Self-assembly of biosilica with biosilica-immobilized recombinant proteins in genetically-engineered diatoms represents a means to construct functional materials in a reproducible and scalable manner, in applications that harness the inherent specificities of proteins to sense and respond to environmental cues. We report that functionalized frustules isolated from the diatom Thalassiosira pseudonana genetically-modified with a biosilica-immobilized single chain fragment variable (scFv) antibody against trinitrotoluene (TNT) or an enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) contained in excess of 200,000 proteins per frustule. To characterize the dynamics of the immobilized proteins, the fluorescence of either a trinitrotoluene (TNT) surrogate compound bound to the scFv or the endogenous fluorescence of EGFP was used to monitor protein conformational dynamics, accessibility to external quenchers, binding affinity, and conformational stability. Proteins immobilized in isolated frustules exhibited isotropic rotational motions with two-fold reductions in rates of motion indicative of weak macromolecular associations that act to increase the effective viscosity and stabilize proteins. Solvent accessibilities and high-affinity (pM) binding affinities were comparable to those in solution. In contrast to solution conditions, scFv antibodies within the biosilica matrix retained binding affinity in the presence of chaotropic agents (i.e., 8 M urea). These results indicated that dramatic increases in protein conformational stability within the biosilica frustule matrices arise through molecular crowding, acting to retain native protein folds and associated functionality. This would permit engineered proteins to function under a range of harsh environmental conditions associated with environmental sensing and industrial catalytic transformations.
Activist Lawyers in Post‐Tiananmen China

What do the activities of twenty-first-century Chinese lawyers tell us about the origins and prospects of legal activism under authoritarianism? This essay fits China's Human Rights Lawyers (2014) into an emerging literature on authoritarian legality. The book offers an insider view of a circle of lawyers interested in using China's newly accessible courts as a platform for social activism. It highlights the difficulty of rights lawyers' day-to-day work against the backdrop of the Chinese state's long-term experiment in how to harness the power of law without ceding political control.
Risk of high-grade cervical dysplasia and cervical cancer in women with systemic lupus erythematosus receiving immunosuppressive drugs.

Objective Prior studies suggest an increased risk of cervical cancer among women with systemic lupus erythematosus. However, the relationship with immunosuppressive drugs is not well studied in US nationwide cohorts. We compared the risk of high-grade cervical dysplasia and cervical cancer among women with systemic lupus erythematosus who started immunosuppressive drugs versus hydroxychloroquine. Methods We identified systemic lupus erythematosus patients initiating immunosuppressive drugs or hydroxychloroquine using claims data from two US commercial health plans and Medicaid (2000-2012). We used a validated claims-based algorithm to identify high-grade cervical dysplasia or cervical cancer. To account for potential confounders, including demographic factors, comorbidities, medication use, HPV vaccination status, and health care utilization, immunosuppressive drugs and hydroxychloroquine initiators were 1:1 matched on the propensity score. We used inverse variance-weighted, fixed effect models to pool hazard ratios from the propensity score-matched Medicaid and commercial cohorts. Results We included 2451 matched pairs of immunosuppressive drugs and hydroxychloroquine new users in the commercial cohort and 7690 matched pairs in Medicaid. In the commercial cohort, there were 14 cases of cervical dysplasia or cervical cancer among immunosuppressive drugs users and five cases among hydroxychloroquine users (hazard ratio 2.47, 95% CI 0.89-6.85, hydroxychloroquine = ref). In Medicaid, there were 46 cases among immunosuppressive drugs users and 29 cases in hydroxychloroquine users (hazard ratio 1.24, 95% CI 0.78-1.98, hydroxychloroquine = ref). The pooled hazard ratio of immunosuppressive drugs was 1.40 (95% CI 0.92-2.12). Conclusion Among women with systemic lupus erythematosus, immunosuppressive drugs may be associated with a greater, albeit not statistically significant, risk of high-grade cervical dysplasia and cervical cancer compared to patients receiving hydroxychloroquine alone.
On Workplace Investment in Employee Well-Being

Many modern organizations invest substantially in employee well-being, especially knowledge-intensive companies. However, decision makers fail to make informed choices based on theoretical advancements and empirical evidence provided by years of high-quality research on individual well-being. This study reviews five fundamental scientific principles regarding people’s experiences of well-being and discusses the possible implications of the findings on organizational well-being initiatives. My purpose is to encourage organizations and decision makers to make more effective evidence-based investments in employee well-being.
A Novel Approach to Explore How Nursing Care Affects Intracranial Pressure.

BACKGROUND Intracranial pressure is measured continuously, and nursing behaviors have been associated with variations in the measurements. METHODS A prospective pilot observational study was done to develop a comprehensive list of nursing behaviors that affect patients' intracranial pressure. Data on nurses were obtained by self-reports and video recording. Patient-level data were collected via chart abstraction, video recording, and patients' monitors. RESULTS Data on 9 patients and 32 nurses were analyzed. A total of 6244 minutes of data were video recorded. Intracranial pressure was changed because of a nursing intervention during 3394 observations. Compared with baseline levels, intracranial pressure was significantly higher if a nursing intervention was performed (odds ratio, 1.96; 95% CI, 1.71-2.24; P < .001). CONCLUSION Studying nursing behaviors is feasible. Synchronizing and analyzing mutually exclusive and exhaustive behaviors indicated that nursing behaviors have an effect on patients' intracranial pressure.
How Perilous Was It to Write Political History in Late Antiquity

Scholars often assume that historians in late antiquity ended their narratives with the previous regime because it was too dangerous for them to write candidly about the current imperial reign. While this was generally true, there are some notable exceptions to the pattern which, when studied together, show that this rule was not iron-clad and cannot safely be relied on to date the composition of texts and the scope of their coverage (in the case of lost works). Both the rule and the exceptions illuminate the nuanced play of “truth” and “power” in late antiquity. In assessing our evidence we must often read between the lines, but not all historians were as timid as we might assume. The Roman empire9s “secret history” could sometimes be aired.
High step-up Z-source DC-DC converter with flyback and voltage multiplier

Recently, because of the pollution problems of the fossil fuels, demand of renewable energy sources is increased. Solar panels and fuel-cells generate low voltage, therefore high voltage gain dc-dc converters are needed to boost their low output voltage to meet the inverters required voltage. Z-source converter has several advantages such as high voltage gain, isolated energy source from the load side, clamped switch voltage and positive output voltage polarity, therefore it is a suitable choice for high step-up applications. This paper presents a non-isolated high step-up dc-dc converter which is the derivation of z-source converter and has a higher voltage gain in comparison to the conventional converters. This advantage makes this converter a suitable choice for photovoltaic applications. Moreover, high boost voltage is obtained with low duty cycle and the energy of leakage inductances is absorbed so the efficiency is increased. A 100 W laboratory prototype to convert 24–300 V is implemented to verify the theoretical and simulation results.
P2.14 The effect of follicular versus luteal phase menstrual cycle timing on genital herpes simplex virus-2 shedding and lesions

Introduction The effect of female sex hormones on the natural history of herpes simplex virus (HSV) is poorly understood. Studies suggest that vaginal immunity varies throughout the menstrual cycle, with increased inflammatory cytokines and decreased innate immune factors observed during the luteal (post-ovulatory) phase. Whether HSV shedding or presence of genital lesions vary throughout the menstrual cycle is unknown. Methods We studied HSV-2 seropositive women enrolled in prospective studies of genital herpes at the University of Washington Virology Research Clinic. Participants were eligible if they had established HSV-2 infection, performed daily genital swabbing for HSV DNA, recorded a menstrual diary, and were not using hormonal contraception. We used Poisson mixed effects models to determine if genital HSV DNA detection or lesion frequency differed throughout the menstrual cycle, categorised into four seven-day phases based on most proximate first day of menstrual bleeding: early and late for each of follicular and luteal. Results In 189 women aged 19–46 (median age 33) who collected 9307 genital swabs, HSV was detected on 1822 days (20%). The rate of shedding was 21% during the early follicular phase versus 18% during late luteal (RR=1.2, 95% CI 1.0–1.4, p=0.04), 21% during late follicular (RR=1.2 relative to late luteal, 95% CI 1.0–1.5, p=0.06), and 19% during early luteal (RR 1.1 relative to late luteal, 95% CI 0.9–1.3, p=0.53). In sensitivity analyses reducing misclassification of phase by excluding samples>10 days from day 1 of menses, these observations were strengthened. The pattern was similar for genital lesions, present on 13% of days during the follicular phase and 11% during the luteal phase. Conclusion In women with established HSV infection, genital HSV-2 shedding and lesions were slightly more common during the early follicular phase of the menstrual cycle than in the luteal phase. These cyclic variations may be related to changes in oestrogen and progesterone affecting vaginal immunity.
Redoing gender: How women in the funeral industry use essentialism for equality

Although some research considers women's participation in traditionally male-dominated jobs as an ‘undoing’ of the gender system, other scholars argue that women's participation in non-traditional roles can actually maintain hegemonic masculinity. Because women have recently entered the funeral industry in unprecedented numbers, the profession offers a unique context to study how women negotiate a sense of belonging in male-dominated fields. I draw on 22 interviews with women in the funeral industry to reveal how gender is done and undone in an occupational context. In what Hughey (2010. Social Problems, 57, 653–679) refers to as a ‘paradox of participation’, I argue that women in the funeral industry redefine the image of the ideal funeral director by using gender essentialist logic, which originally acted as a barrier to their entry to the field, to justify their participation. By showing how gender essentialism and egalitarianism can constitute reinforcing logics instead of an opposing binary, this research contributes to the literature concerning women in non-traditional roles.
Inadequacy of Conventional Grab Sampling for Remediation Decision-Making for Metal Contamination at Small-Arms Ranges

Research shows grab sampling is inadequate for evaluating military ranges contaminated with energetics because of their highly heterogeneous distribution. Similar studies assessing the heterogeneous distribution of metals at small-arms ranges (SAR) are lacking. To address this we evaluated whether grab sampling provides appropriate data for performing risk analysis at metal-contaminated SARs characterized with 30–48 grab samples. We evaluated the extractable metal content of Cu, Pb, Sb, and Zn of the field data using a Monte Carlo random resampling with replacement (bootstrapping) simulation approach. Results indicate the 95% confidence interval of the mean for Pb (432 mg/kg) at one site was 200–700 mg/kg with a data range of 5–4500 mg/kg. Considering the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency screening level for lead is 400 mg/kg, the necessity of cleanup at this site is unclear. Resampling based on populations of 7 and 15 samples, a sample size more realistic for the area yielded high false negative rates.
Master of Puppets: An Animation-by-Demonstration Computer Puppetry Authoring Framework

This paper presents Master of Puppets (MOP), an animation-by-demonstration framework that allows users to control the motion of virtual characters (puppets) in real time. In the first step, the user is asked to perform the necessary actions that correspond to the character’s motions. The user’s actions are recorded, and a hidden Markov model is used to learn the temporal profile of the actions. During the runtime of the framework, the user controls the motions of the virtual character based on the specified activities. The advantage of the MOP framework is that it recognizes and follows the progress of the user’s actions in real time. Based on the forward algorithm, the method predicts the evolution of the user’s actions, which corresponds to the evolution of the character’s motion. This method treats characters as puppets that can perform only one motion at a time. This means that combinations of motion segments (motion synthesis), as well as the interpolation of individual motion sequences, are not provided as functionalities. By implementing the framework and presenting several computer puppetry scenarios, its efficiency and flexibility in animating virtual characters is demonstrated.
The Complement System

The complement system consists of a complex cascade of zymogens that leads to the formation of opsonins (predominantly C3b and C4b) that promote phagocytosis and the insertion of the membrane attack complex into the membranes, resulting in lysis. It constitutes one of the first lines of defense against pathogens as it does not require prior maturation or adaptation. The complement system also exerts an important influence on the adaptive immune response by acting synergistically with antibodies as well as promoting B- and T-cell stimulation. Although traditionally we have learned of three activation pathways, the reality is that there are multiple activation mechanisms provided by crosstalk with other systems such as the coagulation system. In order to prevent autologous attack, the complement system has many regulatory points that are intended to prevent autologous damage.
Factors associated with withdrawal bleeding after administration of oral micronized progesterone in women with secondary amenorrhea

Objective To compare two dosages of oral micronized progesterone (P) and placebo for withdrawal bleeding and side effects. Design Prospective, randomized, double-blind. Setting Academic institution. Participants: Out of 190 screened with oligomenorrhea/amenorrhea, 60 who qualified completed the study. Interventions A 10-day course of (1) oral micronized P 300mg, (2) oral micronized P 200mg, or (3) placebo. Main Outcome Measures Withdrawal bleeding, side effects, and changes in lipids. Endogenous estradiol (E 2 ) concentrations at baseline and P concentrations during treatment were correlated with bleeding response. Results Withdrawal bleeding occurred in 90% of women taking 300mg, 58% of women taking 200mg, and 29% of women taking placebo ( P P =not significant). Lipid concentrations were unchanged. Endogenous E 2 and treatment P concentrations were of limited predictive value for withdrawal bleeding. Conclusions Progesterone 300mg induced significantly more withdrawal bleeding than placebo, with similar side effects. Bleeding response cannot be predicted reliably from E 2 and P concentrations.
Is there a Disorder of Phosphate Metabolism in Idiopathic Hypercalciuria

Albright, Henneman and their associates (Albright et al., 1953; Henneman et al., 1958; Melick and Henneman, 1958) introduced the term idiopathic hypercalciuria to describe a group of patients who had formed calcium containing kidney stones and who exhibited hypercalciuria without hypercalcemia, increased intestinal calcium absorption, normal skeletal radiographs and hypophosphatemia. Most of the patients were men. These investigators emphasized that this group of patients did not give a history of vitamin D use or exhibit evidence of sarcoidosis, hyperthyroidism, Cushing’s syndrome, malignant tumor, rapid bone loss or renal tubular acidosis. The repetitive demonstration that serum calcium concentrations were normal excluded the diagnosis of primary hyperparathyroidism. Subsequent studies of patients with calcium nephrolithiasis have also demonstrated that these patients frequently exhibit lower serum phosphate levels than do healthy adults. Data from several studies are summarized in Table I (Henneman et al., 1958; Coe et al., 1973; Gray et al., 1977; Shen et al., 1977; Bordier et al., 1977). In each of these studies, the serum phosphorus levels among the patients with idiopathic hypercalciuria were significantly below those of healthy control subjects, the mean differences in the several series ranging from 0.15 to 0.32 mmol/L. Although other investigators, notably Pak and associates (1974), have failed to even observe such mild hypophosphatemia among patients with idiopathic hypercalciuria, the data in Table I appear to unequivocally document that this is a very common finding among this group of patients with calcium nephrolithiasis. Perhaps the difficulty in detecting mild hypophosphatemia in stone formers is a consequence of the broad range for serum phosphorus concentrations in normal subjects. Fasting serum phosphorus concentrations in a large number of healthy adults and calcium stone formers that we have studied are depicted in Fig. 1 and emphasize the overlap in the ranges for the two groups. In addition, although we have regularly measured serum phosphate concentrations fasting in the morning hopefully thereby obviationg any variation due to the tendency for serum phosphorus levels to fall during the morning hours (Carruthers et al., 1964), it is also important to note that the serum phosphorus concentrations in normal subjects can be reduced after meals (Annino and Relman, 1959) or during short periods of hyperventilation (Okel and Hurst, 1961).
Objective measures of performance status in cancer: A pilot Alliance study.

284Background: Clinician-assessed performance status (cPS) is prognostic in oncology. However, cPS may be limited by subconscious bias, and is confined to clinic visits. A more objective PS measure derived from cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2peak) and/or sensor-derived biometrics (activity (A), heart rate (HR), and activity/HR combinations (A/HR)) could better inform treatment selection, trial design, safety monitoring, and outcomes assessment. A multi-site study was conducted to examine the feasibility and utility of VO2peak and sensor-derived biometrics as complements to cPS and patient-reported PS (pPS). Methods: We enrolled 45 patients receiving chemotherapy at 4 institutions in 3 cohorts (solid tumor, hematologic malignancy, bone marrow transplant) to assess the feasibility and usefulness of VO2peak and sensor-derived biometrics. Patients underwent VO2peak prior to a cycle of treatment, wore a sensor for 4 weeks, and self-reported PS, physical function (PF), mental health (MH), and instrumental activi...
The biomechanical investigation of the relationship between balance and muscular strength in people with chronic stroke: a pilot cross-sectional study.

Background: Impaired balance and weak muscle strength are common deficits associated with stroke. Limited research has examined the relationship between balance and strength in people post-stroke.O...
Improved ergonomic risk factor assessment using opensim and inertial measurement units

Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) is a posture driven ergonomic risk assessment method. The RULA is simple to apply, but consequently has substantial limitations because of limited force and joint angle resolutions. Using OpenSim to understand soft tissue loading and inertial measurement units (IMUs) to measure posture represents a novel approach and provides greater resolution. We simulated the upper limb in multiple postures and under various loading conditions using OpenSim. We compared five OpenSim model output metrics to RULA risk scores. Total joint reaction forces aligned best with RULA scores. Future work will incorporate IMUs, more simulations, and analyze longitudinal injury data to model and estimate ergonomic risk.
Preservice Elementary Science Teacher Attitudes Matter: A New Instrument on Positive Affect Toward Science

ABSTRACTThis article is focused on the creation of a new scale for measuring preservice teachers’ positive affect for science, the Preservice Elementary Teacher Affect Scale for Science (PETAS–S). ...
Survival outcomes of patients with peripheral T-cell lymphomas (PTCL) treated with chemotherapy and/or novel agents: The Columbia University experience.

e19049Background: CHOP-based regimens have been considered the standard of care for PTCL despite disappointing results. Several lines of evidence, including the regulatory approval of novel drugs s...
The Rise of Phosphaethynolate Chemistry in Early Transition Metals, Actinides, and Rare‐Earth Complexes

In the last seven years, chemistry of the phosphaethynolate reagent, Na(OCP)(1,4-dioxane)2.5 , has seen a surge in organic and inorganic chemistry-A renaissance to cyanate chemistry in a new guise. Whereas there have been many reports of main group reactivity with [OCP]- , largely from group 14, in more recent times the use of electropositive metals has garnered significant interest given their ability to disguise in various oxidation states. Herein, we report and discuss advances in such studies of [OCP]- with early transition metal and f-block metal scaffolds.
A Depth Camera-Based Soft Fingertip Device for Contact Region Estimation and Perception-Action Coupling

As the demand for robotic applications in unconstrained and dynamic environments rises, so does the benefit of advancing the state of the art in soft robotic technologies. However, the complex capabilities of soft robots elicited by their high-dimensional, non-linear characteristics simultaneously yield difficult challenges in control and sensing. Moreover, embedding tactile sensing capabilities in soft materials is often expensive and difficult to fabricate. In recent years, however, the invention of small-scale depth-sensing cameras introduced a promising channel for soft tactile sensor design. In this work, we propose a novel soft device inspired by the human fingertip that not only utilizes a small depth camera as the perception mechanism, but also possesses compliance-modulating capabilities. We demonstrate its ability to accurately estimate contact regions upon interaction with an external obstacle, and show that the estimation sensitivity can be modulated via internal fluid states. In addition, we determine an empirical model of the device’s force-deformation characteristics under simplifying assumptions, and validate its performance with real-time force matching control experiments.
Retained Reservoirs of Inflatable Penile Prosthesis: A Systematic Review of the Literature and a Guide to Perioperative Management.

Abstract Introduction Retained reservoirs can be a complex problem for clinicians who manage patients with inflatable penile prostheses (IPPs). Although the general safety of retained reservoirs is well documented, data on the long-term outcomes of these foreign bodies is scarce. In recent years, complications associated with retained reservoirs and the subsequent management of these cases have become more recognized. Aim To review, analyze, and summarize the concept of retained reservoirs and their associated complications with retained reservoirs and to provide a guide for management of complicated retained reservoir patients. Methods We performed a systematic review of the PubMed database on retained reservoir-related complications and perioperative management. Main Outcome Measures We reviewed all publications that detailed complications associated specifically with retained penile prosthesis reservoirs and analyzed perioperative strategies used by providers. Any publication outlining IPP reservoir–related complication(s) stemming from a reservoir that was part of a functioning IPP was excluded. Results Although the risk is low, serious complications can and do arise from retained reservoirs. To properly manage these patients, clinicians must have knowledge of the prosthetic history and maintain a low threshold for obtaining cross-sectional imaging. By using methodical perioperative planning, the need for reintervention in patients with complications can be reduced, and improved surgical outcomes can be achieved. Conclusions The management of retained reservoirs and their complications can be a clinical challenge for prosthetics providers. As such, more data regarding long-term outcomes and management strategies of retained reservoirs are required to better serve this subset of patients with prostheses. Reddy AG, Tsambarlis PN, Akula KP, et al. Retained Reservoirs of Inflatable Penile Prosthesis: A Systematic Review of Literature. Sex Med Rev 2020;8:355–363.
Effective Alerts for Autonomous Solutions to Aid Drivers Experiencing Medical Anomalies

With autonomous vehicle technology on the rise, there are many questions about its possible applications and its procedures. In this study there was a focus on using autonomous technology to aid in protect drivers with certain medical conditions that can cause unsafe driving conditions. A scenario was created for this study, which was explained to users. This included a vehicle being pulled over using autonomous methods when a medical anomaly is detected. This scenario allows the examination of the preferred alarm systems of users to alert them of self-driving technology during a medical emergency. To determine this, a user study was conducted to evaluate the preference which included 21 participants. Volunteers in this study drove a simulation and were presented with several different icons and alarms based upon vehicle standards. Results showed that an alarm tone was more noticeable and comprehendible than a blinking effect. Also, a preferred textual icon was found among the participants.
VALENCIA: a nearest centroid classification method for vaginal microbial communities based on composition.

Taxonomic profiles of vaginal microbial communities can be sorted into a discrete number of categories termed community state types (CSTs). This approach is advantageous because collapsing a hyper-dimensional taxonomic profile into a single categorical variable enables efforts such as data exploration, epidemiological studies, and statistical modeling. Vaginal communities are typically assigned to CSTs based on the results of hierarchical clustering of the pairwise distances between samples. However, this approach is problematic because it complicates between-study comparisons and because the results are entirely dependent on the particular set of samples that were analyzed. We sought to standardize and advance the assignment of samples to CSTs. We developed VALENCIA (VAginaL community state typE Nearest CentroId clAssifier), a nearest centroid-based tool which classifies samples based on their similarity to a set of reference centroids. The references were defined using a comprehensive set of 13,160 taxonomic profiles from 1975 women in the USA. This large dataset allowed us to comprehensively identify, define, and characterize vaginal CSTs common to reproductive age women and expand upon the CSTs that had been defined in previous studies. We validated the broad applicability of VALENCIA for the classification of vaginal microbial communities by using it to classify three test datasets which included reproductive age eastern and southern African women, adolescent girls, and a racially/ethnically and geographically diverse sample of postmenopausal women. VALENCIA performed well on all three datasets despite the substantial variations in sequencing strategies and bioinformatics pipelines, indicating its broad application to vaginal microbiota. We further describe the relationships between community characteristics (vaginal pH, Nugent score) and participant demographics (race, age) and the CSTs defined by VALENCIA. VALENCIA provides a much-needed solution for the robust and reproducible assignment of vaginal community state types. This will allow unbiased analysis of both small and large vaginal microbiota datasets, comparisons between datasets and meta-analyses that combine multiple datasets.
The Poststroke Peripheral Immune Response Is Differentially Regulated by Leukemia Inhibitory Factor in Aged Male and Female Rodents.

Background The goal of this study was to determine whether leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) promotes anti-inflammatory activity after stroke in a sex-dependent manner. Methods Aged (18-month-old) Sprague-Dawley rats of both sexes underwent sham surgery or permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Animals received three doses of intravenous LIF (125 μg/kg) or PBS at 6, 24, and 48 h before euthanization at 72 h. Spleen weights were measured immediately following euthanization. Western blot was used to measure protein levels of CCL8, CD11b, CXCL9, CXCL10, IL-12 p40, IL-3, and the LIF receptor (LIFR) in spleen tissue. ELISA was used to measure IL-1β, IL-6, TNFα, and IFNγ in spleen tissue. A Griess Assay was used to indirectly quantify NO levels via measurement of nitrite. Levels of cellular markers and inflammatory mediators were normalized to the baseline (sham) group from each sex. Statistical analysis was performed using two-way ANOVA and followed by Fisher's LSD post hoc test. Results Aged female rats showed a significantly lower spleen weight after MCAO, but showed a significant increase in spleen size after LIF treatment. This effect was observed in aged male rats, but not to as great of an extent. CD11b levels were significantly higher in the spleens of MCAO+PBS males compared to their female counterparts, but there was no significant difference in CD11b levels between MCAO+LIF males and females. LIF significantly increased CXCL9 after LIF treatment in aged male and female rats. LIFR and IL-3 were upregulated after LIF treatment in aged females. Splenic nitrate increased after MCAO but decreased after LIF treatment in aged females. Splenic nitrate levels did not increase after MCAO but did increase after LIF treatment in aged males. The following cytokines/chemokines were not altered by sex or treatment: TNFα, IL-6, IL-12 p40, CCL8, IFNγ, and CXCL10. Conclusions LIF treatment after permanent MCAO induces sex-dependent effects on the poststroke splenic response and the production of proinflammatory cytokines among aged rats.
Oncoplastic reconstruction of central lumpectomy defects using the medial pillar island flap.

Summary Purpose This report presents the medial pillar island flap technique of oncoplastic breast reconstruction of central defects that involve the nipple-areola complex. Methods The procedure was performed in patients who presented with inferior pole redundancy using a vertical mammaplasty pattern. The flap was designed utilizing the territory of the lower pole as an island flap pedicled by the internal mammary artery perforators surrounded by the soft tissue of the medial pillar. Results Eight patients underwent the procedure with a mean age of 57.6 years. Median breast cup size was D (range: from C to DDD). The mean body mass index was 37.3 kg/m2 (range: from 32.1 to 41.5). The size of the defect ranged from 64 to 150 cm3 (mean, 97.2). Concomitant opposite breast vertical reduction was performed in 6 cases. Flap survival was uneventful. Nipple reconstruction was performed 6 months after radiation treatment in 4 patients. No major complications were encountered. Two patients developed minor wound breakdown after nipple reconstruction. Conclusions The medial pillar island flap is presented as a safe and reliable option for the reconstruction of central partial mastectomy defects in patients with macromastia or breast ptosis. Internal mammary system provides predictable and robust flap viability while complete separation from the inframammary fold allows for unrestricted mobility. The procedure is designed with vertical scar mammaplasty, which results in a smooth contour to the lower pole. The flap allows for nipple reconstruction using well-vascularized skin paddle. The technique is offered as an alternative oncoplasty option for neoareolar reconstruction.
Cumulative stress: A general "s" factor in the structure of stress.

Abstract Objective The present study tested a hierarchical model of cumulative stress in a large probability sample of adults from the United States. Methods Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) models were used to develop and test a hierarchical model of cumulative stress. Structural equation models were used to estimate concurrent associations with demographic factors, polygenic risk scores, and physical health outcomes, as well as prospective associations with physical health outcomes. Results A hierarchical model of cumulative stress was the best-fitting model, with a general “s-factor” capturing the tendency for subordinate dimensions of stress to correlate. Associations with demographic factors and polygenic risk scores for physical and psychological phenotypes provide evidence for the convergent validity of a general s-factor of cumulative stress. The general s-factor and subordinate factors of cumulative stress were also associated with physical health outcomes, concurrently and prospectively, including number of chronic conditions, body mass index, and difficulty with activities of daily living. Conclusions Like other human individual differences, the co-occurrence of social stressors can be understood using a hierarchical model.