cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Synthesis, characterization, and diels–alder extension of cyclopentadiene telechelic polyisobutylene. IV. α,ω-Di(3-cyclopentadienylpropyldimethylsilyl)polyisobutylene†

The synthesis and chain extension of polyisobutylene having nonfluxional terminal cyclopentadiene groups is described. The fluxional behavior of silylcyclopentadiene end groups was previously found to prevent Diels–Alder dimerization of the end groups. The incorporation of a propyl moiety between the silicon atom and the cyclopentadiene ring was found to prevent this fluxional isomerization. Polyisobutylene was synthesized having 3-cyclopentadienylpropyldimethylsilyl end groups with a functionality near 2.0. While thermal extension at 80°C resulted in threefold molecular weight increase, coupling with bisdienophiles yielded greater than tenfold molecular weight increases. The retro-Diels–Alder reaction of coupled end groups prevents the attainment of high-molecular-weight polymers at equilibrium.
Vein Graft Neointimal Hyperplasia Is Exacerbated by Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor-1 Signaling in Graft-Intrinsic Cells

Objective— Vein graft remodeling and neointimal hyperplasia involve inflammation, graft-intrinsic cells, and recruitment of vascular progenitor cells. We sought to examine if the inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor (TNF) affects vein graft remodeling via its p55 TNF receptor-1 (p55). Methods and Results— Inferior vena cava-to-carotid artery interposition grafting was performed between p55 −/− and congenic (C57Bl/6) wild-type (WT) mice. Immunofluorescence revealed TNF in early (2-week) vein grafts. Six weeks postoperatively, luminal and medial areas were indistinguishable among all vein graft groups. However, neointimal area was reduced in p55 −/− grafts: by 40% in p55 −/− grafts placed in p55 −/− recipients, and by 21% in p55 −/− grafts placed in WT recipients, compared with WT grafts in WT recipients ( P 3 H]thymidine incorporation in vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) from WT, but not from p55 −/− mice. However, responses of WT and p55 −/− SMCs to other growth factors were equivalent. Conclusions— Signaling via p55, in vein graft-intrinsic cells, contributes to the pathogenesis of vein graft neointimal hyperplasia.
A trophic bottleneck?: The ecological role of trout‐perch Percopsis omiscomaycus in Saginaw Bay, Lake Huron

Summary Trout-perch are abundant in many North American aquatic systems, but the ecological roles of trout-perch as predators, competitors and prey remain relatively understudied. To elucidate the ecological role of trout-perch in Saginaw Bay (Lake Huron, North America), the spatial and temporal diet composition was quantified and the frequency of occurrence of trout-perch in diets of piscivorous walleye and yellow perch was evaluated. From May through November 2009–2010, trout-perch and their potential predators and prey were collected monthly from five sites in Saginaw Bay using bottom-trawls. Trout-perch were abundant components of the Saginaw Bay fish community, and in 2009, represented 13.5% of fish collected in trawls, with only yellow perch (38%) and rainbow smelt (19.1%) being more common. Trout-perch primarily consumed Chironomidae (84.0% of diet biomass) and exhibited strong, positive selection for Chironomidae and Amphipoda, suggesting that their diet preferences overlap with the economically important yellow perch and juvenile walleye. Energy content of trout-perch averaged 4795 J g−1 wet and was similar to yellow perch (4662 J g−1 wet) and round goby (3740 J g−1 wet). Thus, they may provide a comparable food source for larger piscivorous fish. However, despite their high energy density, abundance, and spatial overlap with other fish prey species, trout-perch were very rare in diets of piscivorous walleye and yellow perch in Saginaw Bay, indicating that trout-perch are a weak conduit of energy transfer to higher trophic levels.
Complications of Transrectal Ultrasound-Guided Prostate Biopsy

Refinements in transrectal ultrasound biopsy over the last 25 years have led to improved cancer detection, fewer risks, and reduced morbidity. Hematuria, hematospermia, hematochezia, and rectal bleeding are common, but generally resolve without treatment. Anticoagulant medications should be stopped before planned biopsy unless contraindicated. For patients taking antithrombolytic therapy after cardiac stenting, the urologist should consult with the patient’s cardiologist to determine the best course of treatment. Infection complications are significantly reduced with prophylactic antibiotics. However, clinical studies show wide variances for optimal antibiotic regimen. Pain is a source of anxiety for many patients. Periprostatic nerve block is an established method for reducing discomfort. Patients should be educated about common postbiopsy conditions with low morbidity and be able to differentiate these from medical emergencies.
Components and subsystems for analog microwave photonics

The performance and component requirements for externally-modulated analog microwave photonic links will be reviewed. Specific emphasis will be placed on modulator efficiency (Vpi), laser relative intensity noise, detected photocurrent, link linearity and link impairments
Prediction of normal soft tissue facial changes.

Abstract No Abstract Available. Portions of this research were funded by the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists and presented in part at the 51st General Meeting, International Association for Dental Research, Washington, D.C.
Mechanisms of Carcinogenicity and Anticarcinogenicity: Role of Dietary Components

The role of nutrition in the etiology of human disease, including cancer, has been recognized for a very long time. This knowledge and, perhaps, personal preference are reflected by the choice and balance of edibles included in the daily diet. Even at present, in certain societies where strong emphasis on traditional values has preserved the dietary patterns of ancient times, the daily diet of most people includes a wide variety of legumes, high in protease inhibitors, and selected vegetables, high in s-carotene. With our current state of knowledge, we can appreciate the role of tobacco in causing lung cancer and the role of betel quid in the etiology of oral cancer. It may be of interest to note that in certain so cieties, the use of tobacco and betel quid was strictly prohibited as early as the sixteenth-century because of the suspicion that these agents may be involved in the etiology of cardiovascular diseases and cancer.
Using Drosophila to discover mechanisms underlying type 2 diabetes

Mechanisms of glucose homeostasis are remarkably well conserved between the fruit flyDrosophila melanogasterand mammals. From the initial characterization of insulin signaling in the fly came the identification of downstream metabolic pathways for nutrient storage and utilization. Defects in these pathways lead to phenotypes that are analogous to diabetic states in mammals. These discoveries have stimulated interest in leveraging the fly to better understand the genetics of type 2 diabetes mellitus in humans. Type 2 diabetes results from insulin insufficiency in the context of ongoing insulin resistance. Although genetic susceptibility is thought to govern the propensity of individuals to develop type 2 diabetes mellitus under appropriate environmental conditions, many of the human genes associated with the disease in genome-wide association studies have not been functionally studied. Recent advances in the phenotyping of metabolic defects have positionedDrosophilaas an excellent model for the functional characterization of large numbers of genes associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Here, we examine results from studies modeling metabolic disease in the fruit fly and compare findings to proposed mechanisms for diabetic phenotypes in mammals. We provide a systematic framework for assessing the contribution of gene candidates to insulin-secretion or insulin-resistance pathways relevant to diabetes pathogenesis.
Optical Trapping and Unfolding of RNA

Optical tweezers have proven a useful tool for exploring the structure and function of individual molecules, such as proteins, DNA, and RNA. The ability to unfold and refold biological molecules has provided novel insights that complement and go beyond traditional biochemical and structural approaches. With sophisticated optical tweezers instrumentation coming to the market, single-molecule stretching studies now have become feasible and available to a wide range of users. Therefore, a step-by-step protocol for stretching individual biomolecules utilizing a simple experimental geometry is timely and presented here. While we have taken the unfolding of an RNA structure held between two RNA/DNA hybrid handles as an example, the technical protocol should be readily applicable to other biomolecules and may serve as a starting point for more sophisticated experiments.
New Staining Technique for Diagnosing Babesia Species

Babesiosis is a parasite infection that causes wide spectrum of clinical manifestations. To examine the peripheral blood for Babesia , most laboratories prepare thick and thin peripheral blood (PB) smears from a patient and stain them with Giemsa, essentially employing the routine technique used for detecting malaria parasites. This method is labor intensive and time consuming. Also, patients with low levels …
Indianapolis: Leveraging the Sports Strategy

Indianapolis has successfully leveraged the sports and events business for community and economic development. Most widely known for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Amateur Sports Capital strategy, the city is home to a number of leading and innovative sports businesses. Between 1979 and 2011, 400 major sporting events generated a $2 billion economic impact (Q&A: Indianapolis Sports Strategy 2013). Despite this substantive economic impact, Indianapolis is not recognized as a leader in the sports industry. Further, the original position around amateur sports has started to decay and the competition around the hosting of mega-events is more intense than ever as other cities see the merits of sports event strategies.
The impact of chronic conditions on the economic burden of cancer survivorship: a systematic review.

ABSTRACTIntroduction: This systematic review examines the excess cost of chronic conditions on the economic burden of cancer survivorship among adults in the US.Areas covered: Twelve published studies were identified. Although studies varied substantially in populations, comorbidities examined, methods, and types of cost reported, costs for cancer survivors with comorbidities generally increased with greater numbers of comorbidities or an increase in comorbidity index score. Survivors with comorbidities incurred significantly more in total medical costs, out-of-pocket costs, and costs by service type compared to cancer survivors without additional comorbidities.Expert commentary: Cancer survivors with comorbidities bear significant excess out-of-pocket costs and their care is also more expensive to the healthcare system. On-going evaluation of different payment models, care coordination, and disease management programs for cancer survivors with comorbidities will be important in monitoring impact on healt...
A case study on improving ELCC by utilization of energy storage with solar PV

Utility scale solar PV and energy storage are considered for electric utility system with increasing penetration of renewable energy. In this paper, an integrated system of PV, energy storage and grid is analyzed to evaluate the Effective Load Carrying Capability (ELCC). A 100 MW solar PV plant and 100 MWh utility scale energy storage are added to an existing power system. The load profile is modified when PV and storage are added. The analysis shows a substantial improvement in ELCC of the system.
Estimating regional-scale permeability–depth relations in a fractured-rock terrain using groundwater-flow model calibration

The trend of decreasing permeability with depth was estimated in the fractured-rock terrain of the upper Potomac River basin in the eastern USA using model calibration on 200 water-level observations in wells and 12 base-flow observations in subwatersheds. Results indicate that permeability at the 1–10 km scale (for groundwater flowpaths) decreases by several orders of magnitude within the top 100 m of land surface. This depth range represents the transition from the weathered, fractured regolith into unweathered bedrock. This rate of decline is substantially greater than has been observed by previous investigators that have plotted in situ wellbore measurements versus depth. The difference is that regional water levels give information on kilometer-scale connectivity of the regolith and adjacent fracture networks, whereas in situ measurements give information on near-hole fractures and fracture networks. The approach taken was to calibrate model layer-to-layer ratios of hydraulic conductivity (LLKs) for each major rock type. Most rock types gave optimal LLK values of 40–60, where each layer was twice a thick as the one overlying it. Previous estimates of permeability with depth from deeper data showed less of a decline at <300 m than the regional modeling results. There was less certainty in the modeling results deeper than 200 m and for certain rock types where fewer water-level observations were available. The results have implications for improved understanding of watershed-scale groundwater flow and transport, such as for the timing of the migration of pollutants from the water table to streams.
Viral Vector Vaccines for Liver-Stage Malaria

More than three decades have passed since the first virus-based vaccine was produced against the liver stages of malaria in 1984, and we have made significant progress since then. The most recent human clinical trials have shown that prime-boost heterologous immunization regimens consisting of viral-vectored malarial vaccines induce significant protection against controlled human malaria infections. In view of the fact that a first-generation malaria pre-erythrocytic stage candidate vaccine, RTS,S/AS01, was recently licensed by the European Medicines Agency, a new line of research has opened up for possible prime-boost heterologous immunization regimens utilizing both RTS,S and viral-vectored malarial vaccines. This chapter will review the research regarding the development of viral-vectored vaccines against the liver stages of malaria from small animal and nonhuman primate models to humans.
An algorithm for continuum modeling of rocks with multiple embedded nonlinearly-compliant joints

We present a numerical method for modeling the mechanical effects of nonlinearly-compliant joints in elasto-plastic media. The method uses a series of strain-rate and stress update algorithms to determine joint closure, slip, and solid stress within computational cells containing multiple “embedded” joints. This work facilitates efficient modeling of nonlinear wave propagation in large spatial domains containing a large number of joints that affect bulk mechanical properties. We implement the method within the massively parallel Lagrangian code GEODYN-L and provide verification and examples. We highlight the ability of our algorithms to capture joint interactions and multiple weakness planes within individual computational cells, as well as its computational efficiency. We also discuss the motivation for developing the proposed technique: to simulate large-scale wave propagation during the Source Physics Experiments (SPE), a series of underground explosions conducted at the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS).
Mouse Models of DNA Double Strand Break Repair Deficiency and Cancer

Understanding the physiological requirements for DNA repair is of paramount importance in establishing the links between genotoxic stress, development and disease. Defective DNA repair can lead to a variety of systemic pathology including cancer, neurodegeneration and immune defects. The genetically modified mouse is a critical resource for analysis of the effects of genotoxic stress and the tissue-specific requirements for DNA repair pathways. In the following we will outline how mouse models have aided our understanding of the connections between genotoxic stress and cancer and how they will contribute to therapeutic approaches for cancer treatment.
Human plasma-derived C1 esterase inhibitor for on-demand or prophylaxis treatment of patients with hereditary angioedema: intravenous and subcutaneous formulations

Introduction: Hereditary angioedema with C1 inhibitor (C1-INH) deficiency (C1-INH-HAE) is a rare disease in which patients have debilitating, unpredictable swelling attacks. Treatment approaches in...
Editorial: New Themes in Analytic Dogmatic Theology

Analytic theology (AT) is a particular approach to theology and the study of religion that engages with the tools, categories, and methodological concerns of analytic philosophy. As a named-entity, AT arrived on the academic scene with the 2009 Oxford University Press publication, Analytic Theology: New Essays in the Philosophy of Theology, edited by Oliver D. Crisp and Michael C. Rea. AT was arguably represented, prior to this publication, by the proto-analytic theologian Richard Swinburne in his noteworthy works on Christian doctrine (e.g. Providence and the Problem of Evil, Responsibility and Atonement, The Christian God, Faith and Reason, and The Resurrection of God Incarnate), as well as by other professional philosophers of religion such as Alvin Plantinga, Nicholas Wolterstorff, Richard Swinburne, William Alston, Eleonore Stump, Robert and Marilyn McCord Adams, Basil Mitchell, Keith Yandell, Paul Helm, and Stephen T. Davis, among others. These philosophers were addressing such topics as the coherence of theism, the rationality of religious belief, and the contributions of such philosophical theologians of the medieval past including Thomas Aquinas or William Ockham and those from modernity including Rene Descartes and Jonathan Edwards. Yet, the impetus for utilizing analytic philosophy to treat these topics emerged, not from the theological side of the conversation, but from the philosophical side. Anachronistically, then, the term “analytic theology” seems to aptly describe the work of these philosophers of religion.
Responses of thalamic neurons to itch-and pain-producing stimuli in rats

Processing of information related to itch within in the thalamus is not well understood, We show in this, the first single-unit electrophysiological study of responses of thalamic neurons to prurit...
Perinatal depression prevention through home visitation: a cluster randomized trial of mothers and babies 1-on-1

Postpartum depression is highly prevalent in low-income women and has significant health effects on mother and child. This pilot study tested the effectiveness of the newly adapted Mothers and Babies (MB) 1-on-1 intervention. A cluster randomized trial was conducted with 8 programs using trained home visitors to deliver MB 1-on-1 and 6 delivering usual home visiting. One hundred twenty pregnant women not experiencing major depression were enrolled. Outcomes were assessed at baseline and 3- and 6-months postpartum. The rate of change in depressive and anxiety symptoms between groups was significant at 6 months, but not 3 months. No statistically significant differences between groups were found on secondary outcomes except perceptions of social support at 6 months. There was variability in use of MB skills, with fewer women using cognitive restructuring techniques. Although larger studies should be conducted, MB 1-on-1 appears promising in using home visitors to deliver a cognitive behavioral intervention to women at risk for postpartum depression.
Wearable computers for field inspectors: Delivering data and knowledge-based support in the field

Field inspectors, such as bridge inspectors, oftentimes have to perform their tasks in harsh environments and need to have their hands free. Thus, they cannot carry reference materials. The inability to access material during the inspection effort influences the efficiency with which field data is collected and its quality.
A Sociological Response to Stetsenko

At the start I should say that I tend to agree with Stetsenko that one must embrace the implications of a dialectical worldview and method in order to fully comprehend the Vygotskian project. I also have to agree that the Vygotskian project has been largely overlooked outside of the field of educational psychology, where Stetsenko argues it is still marginalized in comparison to other, more dominant theoretical models. Furthermore, Marxist psychology has never been a part of American sociology, a discipline that has instead focused on macrosociological Marxist models, including Immanuel Wallerstein’s (1980) “world systems theory” or Theda Skocpol’s (1980) “theory of revolutions.” Thus, the Vygotskian project exists at the marginal nexus of both psychology and sociology.
In-Laws’ Perceptions of Topic Avoidance, Goal Inferences, and Relational Outcomes

Utilizing a multiple goals theory of personal relationships, the present study examined conditions under which in-laws’ are more or less dissatisfied with each other’s’ topic avoidance (i.e., gener...
Representation in Biological Systems: Teleofunction, Etiology, and Structural Preservation

In this chapter I propose a novel thesis about the nature of representation in biological systems. I argue that what makes something a representation is distinct from what determines representational content. As such, it is useful to conceptualize what it is to be a representation in terms of fundamental concepts from biology, particularly the concept of a biological function (or teleofunction). By contrast, representational content is best understood as a structured relation involving two parts, and the explanation of how states of biological systems have content involves the preservation of internal structural relations and causal history.
Maximizing the Potential of Millennial Communication Professionals in the Workplace: A Talent Management Approach in the Field of Strategic Communication

Although millennials have been extensively examined in the popular and academic literature, there have not been sufficient studies in strategic communication that help us fully understand this uniq...
Salt Marshes: Their Role in Our Society and Threats Posed to Their Existence

Abstract Salt marshes are middle to high latitude intertidal wetlands of great value. They play a major role in coastal defense, wildlife conservation, and as a key sink/source of organic material and nutrients, and are vitally important for a wide range of marine communities. Salt marshes also function as a sink for pollutants that would otherwise damage the surrounding environment. They also represent important historical and scientific archives. However, the majority of them are increasingly threatened by direct (e.g., land reclamation, groundwater extraction) and indirect (e.g., the so-called “coastal squeeze”) human actions, or by the effects of climate change. Indeed, salt marsh habitats have shrunk to half their historical coverage in the last century, and the enhanced sea level rise will be responsible for the loss of 60%–90% of today’s salt marsh areal coverage in the near future, according to whether or not effective measures to limit greenhouse gas emissions are undertaken. Local, small-scale solutions, such as barriers and fences, can be effective only on a short-term perspective or when dealing with immediate risk. Managed realignment techniques that require the landward retreat of coastal defenses and the subsequent tidal inundation of previously claimed agricultural land are actions that ensure the survival of existing salt marshes (or the creation of new ones) over a longer temporal period. However, only the transition to a global model of development that is environmentally sustainable can ensure the persistence of salt marsh habitats and the maintenance of ecosystem services that they provide.
Varying screen size for passive video distraction during induction of anesthesia in low-risk children: A pilot randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND Preoperative anxiety affects up to 65% of children who undergo anesthesia induction and often results in uncooperative behavior. Electronic devices have been used to distract children to reduce anxiety and create a more enjoyable preoperative experience. Few studies have compared the effects of different video delivery systems on preoperative anxiety. AIMS The primary aim was to determine if a large projection-based video screen mounted to a patient's bed decreased anxiety when compared to a tablet during mask induction of anesthesia in children from 4-10 years of age. METHODS We performed a prospective, randomized trial to determine differences in our primary outcome, preoperative anxiety, between the large Bedside Entertainment and Relaxation Theater (BERT) and a smaller tablet screen. Secondary outcomes included (a) induction compliance; (b) child fear; (c) frequency of emergence delirium; and (d) satisfaction. RESULTS In examining the primary outcome for 52 patients, there was a main effect for time on mYPAS scores, f(2, 51) = 13.18, P < 0.01. mYPAS scores significantly increased across time for both groups. The interaction for time (T0, T1 or T2) × group (BERT vs Tablet) was not significant, f(2, 51) = 1.96, P = 0.15; thus changes in mYPAS scores across time did not differ by group status. There was no significant difference in induction compliance, child fear, emergence delirium, or satisfaction between the two groups. CONCLUSION In a low-risk population, preoperative anxiety was low and induction compliance was high when pairing screen-based distraction interventions, regardless of size, with parental presence at induction of anesthesia.
Microcircuit Mechanisms through which Mediodorsal Thalamic Input to Anterior Cingulate Cortex Exacerbates Pain-Related Aversion

Hyperexcitability of the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) is thought to drive aversion associated with chronic neuropathic pain. Here, we studied the contribution of input from the mediodorsal thalamus (MD) to ACC, using sciatic nerve injury and chemotherapy-induced mouse models of neuropathic pain. Activating MD inputs elicited pain-related aversion in both models. Unexpectedly, excitatory responses of layer V ACC neurons to MD inputs were significantly weaker in pain models compared to controls. This caused the ratio between excitation and feedforward inhibition elicited by MD input to shift toward inhibition, specifically for subcortically projecting (SC) layer V neurons. Furthermore, direct inhibition of SC neurons reproduced the pain-related aversion elicited by activating MD inputs. Finally, both the ability to elicit pain-related aversion and the decrease in excitation were specific to MD inputs; activating basolateral amygdala inputs produced opposite effects. Thus, chronic pain-related aversion may reflect activity changes in specific pathways, rather than generalized ACC hyperactivity.
A novel system for introducing precisely-controlled, unanticipated gait perturbations for the study of stumble recovery.

The experimental study of stumble recovery is essential to better understanding the reflexive mechanisms that help prevent falls as well as the deficiencies in fall-prone populations. This study would benefit from a system that can introduce perturbations that: 1) are realistic (e.g., obstacle disrupting the foot in swing phase), 2) are unanticipated by subjects, 3) are controllable in their timing, and 4) allow for kinematic and kinetic evaluation. A stumble perturbation system was designed that consists of an obstacle delivery apparatus that releases an obstacle onto a force-instrumented treadmill and a predictive targeting algorithm which controls the timing of the perturbation to the foot during swing phase. Seven healthy subjects were recruited to take part in an experimental protocol for system validation, which consisted of two sub-experiments. First, a perception experiment determined whether subjects could perceive the obstacle as it slid onto the treadmill belt. Second, a perturbation experiment assessed the timing accuracy of perturbations relative to a target percent swing input by the experimenter. Data from this experiment were then used to demonstrate that joint kinematics and kinetics could be computed before and after the perturbation. Out of 168 perception trials (24 per subject), not a single obstacle was perceived entering the treadmill by the subjects. Out of 196 perturbation trials, 190 trials successfully induced a stumble event, with a mean targeting accuracy, relative to the desired percent swing, of 25 ms (6.2% of swing phase). Joint kinematic and kinetic results were then computed for three common stumble recovery strategies and shown to be qualitatively consistent with results from prior stumble studies conducted overground. The stumble perturbation system successfully introduced realistic obstacle perturbations that were unanticipated by subjects. The targeting accuracy substantially reduced mistrials (i.e., trials that did not elicit a stumble) compared to previous studies. This accuracy enables stumble recovery to be studied more systematically as a function of when the perturbation occurs during swing phase. Lastly, joint kinematic and kinetic estimates allow for a comprehensive analysis of stumble recovery biomechanics.
Simplified model for unsteady air cavities under ship hulls

The drag reduction technique involving air cavities under ship hulls is a promising energy-saving technology. Understanding the air cavity dynamics in unsteady conditions and developing methods for...
Reports of Sharing and Withholding Cancer-Related Information by Patients With Gynecologic Cancer and Their Supporters.

PURPOSE To examine patients' with gynecologic cancer and supporters' reports of sharing and withholding cancer-related information during oncology visits, with a focus on navigating communication encounters more effectively. PARTICIPANTS A SETTING 18 women who were recently diagnosed with gynecologic cancer and their supporters (N = 16) were recruited from the Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey in New Brunswick. METHODOLOGIC APPROACH Data were collected via audio-recorded semistructured interviews and analyzed to determine the types of information that patients and supporters share or withhold during oncology visits. FINDINGS Thematic analyses revealed two major themes. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING Probing patients and supporters separately on topics that they may not feel comfortable discussing can help nurses to identify unaddressed concerns and better assist patients and their supporters during oncology visits.
Normal Glenoid Ossification in Pediatric and Adolescent Shoulders Mimics Bankart Lesions: A Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Based Study.

Purpose The purpose of this descriptive study was to define patterns of ossification and fusion of growth centers around the pediatric and adolescent glenoid as a function of age using 3-dimensional, frequency-selective, fat-suppressed spoiled gradient recalled echo magnetic resonance (MR) imaging sequences, with a particular focus on the anterior glenoid rim because of its clinical relevance as a potential confounder of glenohumeral instability. Methods Picture Archiving and Communication System records at an urban academic tertiary care orthopaedic facility from October 2005 to December 2018 were queried for shoulder MRI in patients aged 9 to 17 years. Patients were excluded if they had any diagnoses that could alter glenoid development. All images were independently evaluated by a musculoskeletal fellowship-trained radiologist. Secondary ossification centers were characterized as cartilage anlage, ossified, or fused at 3 anatomic sites: the anterior glenoid rim, coracoid, and superior glenoid rim. Results A total of 250 MR examinations (143 males, 107 females) were assessed in this study. The glenoid develops in a predictably sequential manner with ossification at the anterior glenoid rim lagging behind the coracoid and superior glenoid rim. The earliest age of anterior glenoid rim ossification was 11 years for both males (range 11-17) and females (range 11-12). Anterior glenoid rim ossification peaked at age 16 among males (34.8%, 8/23) and age 11 among females (27.3%, 3/11). Conclusions Glenoid ossification and fusion progress in a predictable and chronological manner. This pattern should be used as a guideline when interpreting pediatric shoulder MRI examinations. In particular, an anterior glenoid ossification center should not be confused with an anterior glenoid injury (e.g., Bankart lesion), particularly in males 11 to 17 years old and females 11 to 12 years old. Level of Evidence IV (case series).
Re-Assessing the Impact of Majority-Minority Districts on Congressional Elections

We utilize the Cox and Katz (1998, 2002) bargaining model of the redistricting process and data from the 1972-2000 House elections to answer two questions: first, does the creation of majority-minority districts increase the likelihood that minority candidates will be elected in those districts? Second, does the creation of majority-minority districts also generate pro-Republican gerrymanders? We show that majority-minority mandates increase the likelihood of minority candidates being elected to office, regardless of which party controls the redistricting process. This result is consistent with previous research. To test the hypothesis that majority-minority districting has "perverse-effects", the seats-votes curves are estimated for each election, allowing for the partisan or bipartisan control of the redistricting process and the presence of majority-minority mandates. We demonstrate that there is no significant difference in the level of partisan bias observed under redistricting plans with majority-minority districts and those without majority-minority districts. The claim that majority-minority districting has "perverse-effects" is not supported by the data.
The effect of orthognathic surgery on facial recognition algorithm analysis.

Introduction The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability of a publicly available facial recognition application program interface to calculate similarity scores for presurgical and postsurgical photographs of patients who underwent orthognathic surgeries. Our primary objective was to identify which surgical procedure(s) had the greatest effect(s) on the similarity score. Methods Existing photographs for 25 orthodontic-orthognathic patients were analyzed using the application program interface to calculate similarity scores between the presurgical and postsurgical photographs. Photographs from 2 presurgical timepoints were compared as controls. Both relaxed and smiling photographs were included to assess the added impact of a facial pose. Patient characteristics and surgery types were recorded for statistical analysis. Nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis rank-sum tests were performed to analyze the relationship between patient characteristics and similarity scores. Multiple comparisons Wilcoxon rank-sum tests were performed on the statistically significant characteristics. Results Recognition scores were significantly lower after orthognathic surgery at rest (P = 0.009) and smiling (P Conclusions Two-jaw surgeries were associated with a statistically significant decrease in similarity score when compared with 1-jaw procedure. Pose was also found to be a factor influencing similarity scores, especially when comparing presurgical relaxed photographs to postsurgical smiling photographs.
Metal halide perovskite for X-ray and gamma-ray detection

Metal halide perovskites have arisen as a new family of semiconductors for room-temperature ionization radiation detectors due to their high stopping power, large and balanced electron-hole mobility-lifetime (mu-tau) product, and tunable bandgap. These materials are low-cost to make using solution process. The mu-tau of some perovskites are already close or superior to best CZT crystals, while the best resolution of gamma-ray spectrum does not catch up yet, most likely due to the ion migration and self-doping behavior in these materials. Here, we report a simple approach of additive-assisted inverse temperature crystallization (ITC) solution method to grow low-defect density single crystal. We also report our recent progress in developing flexible polycrystalline films for X-ray imaging with performance comparable to those of single crystals while they are much simpler to scale up to commercial relevant size.
Evaluating couch polyurethane foam for a potential passive sampler of semivolatile organic compounds

Abstract Background/Objective Polyurethane foam (PUF), a proven sampling medium for measuring air concentrations of organic compounds, is widely used in upholstered home furniture. We evaluated the potential utility of couch PUF as a passive sampler and as a reservoir for non-flame retardant semivolatile organic compounds (SVOCs). Methods We collected PUF samples from 13 California home couches, measured concentrations (CPUF) of 64 SVOCs at three different depths (i.e., top, top-middle, and middle from couch surfaces facing outward), and examined concentration changes with depth. To calculate the PUF-air partition coefficient (KPUF-air = CPUF/Cair = CPUF × Kdust-air/Cdust), we used the calculated dust-air partition coefficient (Kdust-air) with the octanol-air partition coefficient (Koa) and dust concentrations (Cdust) simultaneously collected and measured. We used KPUF-air to compute fugacity capacity of PUF and chemical mass distribution among various indoor compartments and PUF. Results Among 29 detected compounds, 11 compounds were detected in more than 50% of the samples at all depths. Among the 11 compounds, concentrations of phenanthrene, 2-benzylideneoctanal, galaxolide, tonalide, and homosalate decreased with depth. Among the studied SVOCs, more than 20% of the total mass was distributed to couch PUF for phenol and compounds in skin-applied products (i.e., 2-benzylideoneoctanal, galaxolide, and homosalate). Conclusions Our results showed that couch PUF can absorb many SVOCs and may be an important reservoir for some SVOCs. However, it may not be an effective passive sampling medium for those that have relatively high Koa values. Direct dermal contact with couch seats may be an important exposure route for non-users of skin-applied compounds.
Evaluating the SPIKES Model for Improving Peer-to-Peer Feedback Among Internal Medicine Residents: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Feedback improves trainee clinical performance, but the optimal way to provide it remains unclear. Peer feedback offers unique advantages but comes with significant challenges including a lack of rigorously studied methods. The SPIKES framework is a communication tool adapted from the oncology and palliative care literature for teaching trainees how to lead difficult conversations. To determine if a brief educational intervention focused on the SPIKES framework improves peer feedback between internal medicine trainees on inpatient medicine services as compared to usual practice. Randomized, controlled trial at an academic medical center during academic year 2017–2018. Seventy-five PGY1 and 49 PGY2 internal medicine trainees were enrolled. PGY2s were randomized 1:1 to the intervention or control group. The intervention entailed a 30-min, case-based didactic on the SPIKES framework followed by a refresher email on SPIKES sent to PGY2s before each inpatient medicine rotation. PGY1s were blinded as to which PGY2s underwent the training. The primary outcome was PGY1 evaluation of the extent of feedback provided by PGY2s. Secondary outcomes included PGY1 report of feedback quality and PGY2 self-report of feedback quantity and quality. Outcomes were obtained via anonymous online survey and reported using a Likert scale with a range of one to four. PGY1s completed 207 surveys (51% response rate) and PGY2s completed 61 surveys (42% response rate). PGY1s reported a higher extent of feedback (2.5 vs 2.2; p = 0.02; Cohen’s d = 0.31), more specific feedback (2.3 vs 2.0; p < 0.01; d = 0.33), and higher satisfaction with feedback (2.6 vs 2.2; p < 0.01; d = 0.47) from intervention PGY2s. There were no significant differences in PGY2 self-reported outcomes. With modest implementation requirements and notable limitations, a brief educational intervention focused on SPIKES increased PGY1 perception of the extent, specificity, and satisfaction with feedback from PGY2s.
RNA tape sampling in cutaneous lupus erythematosus discriminates affected from unaffected and healthy volunteer skin

Objective Punch biopsy, a standard diagnostic procedure for patients with cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) carries an infection risk, is invasive, uncomfortable and potentially scarring, and impedes patient recruitment in clinical trials. Non-invasive tape sampling is an alternative that could enable serial evaluation of specific lesions. This cross-sectional pilot research study evaluated the use of a non-invasive adhesive tape device to collect messenger RNA (mRNA) from the skin surface of participants with CLE and healthy volunteers (HVs) and investigated its feasibility to detect biologically meaningful differences between samples collected from participants with CLE and samples from HVs. Methods Affected and unaffected skin tape samples and simultaneous punch biopsies were collected from 10 participants with CLE. Unaffected skin tape and punch biopsies were collected from 10 HVs. Paired samples were tested using quantitative PCR for a candidate immune gene panel and semi-quantitative immunohistochemistry for hallmark CLE proteins. Results mRNA collected using the tape device was of sufficient quality for amplification of 94 candidate immune genes. Among these, we found an interferon (IFN)-dominant gene cluster that differentiated CLE-affected from HV (23-fold change; p Conclusions A non-invasive tape RNA collection technique is a potential tool for repeated skin biomarker measures throughout a clinical trial.
Value Them as Members of the Community: Existing Support Structures in Mosques for South Asian Muslim Families of Children with IDD Living in the United States

Congregational support plays an essential role in the lives of Muslim families of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Yet, little is known about support provided by ...
Ultrabithorax Is a Micromanager of Hindwing Identity in Butterflies and Moths

The forewings and hindwings of butterflies and moths (Lepidoptera) are differentiated from each other, with segment-specific morphologies and color patterns that mediate a wide range of functions in flight, signaling, and protection. The Hox gene Ultrabithorax (Ubx) is a master selector gene that differentiates metathoracic from mesothoracic identities across winged insects, and previous work has shown this role extends to at least some of the color patterns from the butterfly hindwing. Here we used CRISPR targeted mutagenesis to generate Ubx loss-of-function somatic mutations in two nymphalid butterflies (Junonia coenia, Vanessa cardui) and a pyralid moth (Plodia interpunctella). The resulting mosaic clones yielded hindwing-to-forewing transformations, showing Ubx is necessary for specifying many aspects of hindwing-specific identities, including scale morphologies, color patterns, and wing venation and structure. These homeotic phenotypes showed cell-autonomous, sharp transitions between mutant and non-mutant scales, except for clones that encroached into the border ocelli (eyespots) and resulted in composite and non-autonomous effects on eyespot ring determination. In the pyralid moth, homeotic clones converted the folding and depigmented hindwing into rigid and pigmented composites, affected the wing-coupling frenulum, and induced ectopic scent-scales in male androconia. These data confirm Ubx is a master selector of lepidopteran hindwing identity and suggest it acts on many gene regulatory networks involved in wing development and patterning.
Determining electron–nucleus distances and Fermi contact couplings from ENDOR spectra

The hyperfine coupling between an electron spin and a nuclear spin depends on the Fermi contact coupling aiso and, through dipolar coupling, the distance r between the electron and the nucleus. It is measured with electron-nuclear double resonance (ENDOR) spectroscopy and provides insight into the electronic and spatial structure of paramagnetic centers. The analysis and interpretation of ENDOR spectra is commonly done by ordinary least-squares fitting. As this is an ill-posed, inverse mathematical problem, this is challenging, in particular for spectra that show features from several nuclei or where the hyperfine coupling parameters are distributed. We introduce a novel Tikhonov-type regularization approach that analyzes an experimental ENDOR spectrum in terms of a complete non-parametric distribution over r and aiso. The approach uses a penalty function similar to the cross entropy between the fitted distribution and a Bayesian prior distribution that is derived from density functional theory calculations. Additionally, we show that smoothness regularization, commonly used for a similar purpose in double electron–electron resonance (DEER) spectroscopy, is not suited for ENDOR. We demonstrate that the novel approach is able to identify and quantitate ligand protons with electron–nucleus distances between 4 and 9 A in a series of vanadyl porphyrin compounds.
Thermokarst-like depressions on Mars: age constraints on ice degradation in Utopia Planitia

Abstract On Earth, thermokarst features found at higher latitudes result from the melting of excess ground ice. On Mars, similar-looking morphologic features (such as scalloped depressions and expanded craters) have been observed in the mid-latitudes and are interpreted to result from surface collapse due to the loss of massive/clean ice. It is, however, challenging to parse whether the ground ice associated with the Martian morphologies is (1) excess ice wedges/lenses (similar to terrestrial thermokarst) or (2) buried ice sheets/ice-rich mantle deposits. To help one to clarify this question, this chapter will constrain the timing of ice deposition and the development of scalloped depressions in a Utopia Planitia study area. The observations suggest that intact mantle deposits are 1.8 ± 0.3 Myr old, consistent with deposition during a recent high-obliquity climate cycle. The age estimates of the units containing scalloped depressions are poorly constrained (with high error bars), which may indicate episodic or ongoing collapse—but they do appear to be younger than the mantled units, consistent with the removal of mantle ice, although contributions from excess ice cannot be definitively ruled out.
Antibiotic selection, use and residue avoidance:

This document discusses the importance of connecting pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetics in considerations when developing feeder and stocker cattle antibiotic treatment protocols. Simple illustrations of the use of the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic link for commonly used FDA-approved antibiotics are explored. Additionally, important residue avoidance points to consider are discussed when using medication in feeder and stocker cattle with special emphasis on extra label drug use is employed.