cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Isotope variations of dissolved Zn in the Rio Grande watershed, USA: The role of adsorption on Zn isotope composition

Abstract In order to better understand the factors influencing zinc (Zn) isotope composition in hydrological systems, we analyzed the δ 66 Zn of dissolved Zn in the streams and groundwater of the Upper and Middle Rio Grande watershed in Colorado and New Mexico, United States. The stream water samples have a wider variation of δ 66 Zn (−0.57 to + 0.41 ‰ relative to the JMC 3-0749-Lyon standard) than groundwater samples (−0.13 to + 0.12 ‰ ) and than samples from streams that are in close proximity to abandoned mining sites (+0.24 to + 0.40 ‰ ). Regional changes of bedrock geology, from primarily igneous rocks to primarily sedimentary rocks, have no resolvable effect on the δ 66 Zn of aqueous samples. Instead, an increase in water pH from 7.5 to 8.5 corresponds to a considerable decrease in the δ 66 Zn of dissolved Zn ( R 2 = − 0.37 , p = 0.003 , n = 22 ). Consequently, we link the observed Zn isotope variations to the process of adsorption of Zn onto suspended sediment and bedrock minerals (average Δ 66 Zn adsorbed-dissolved = + 0.31 ‰ ). Our results are in good agreement with previous experimental and empirical studies suggesting that Zn adsorption leads to a residual dissolved pool enriched in light Zn isotopes. Given that anthropogenic Zn sources can also be responsible for lowering of δ 66 Zn, and may overlap with the pH/adsorption effect on δ 66 Zn, the latter needs to be carefully considered in future studies to differentiate between natural and anthropogenic factors influencing Zn isotopes in this and other aquatic systems.
Superposition of protein structures using electrostatic isopotentials

Algorithms for comparing protein structures are widely used to identify proteins with similar functions and to examine the mechanisms of binding specificity. In order to make accurate comparisons, two structures must first be superposed, so that differences in position and orientation do not create misleading dissimilarities. Most algorithms generate these superpositions by aligning atoms of the peptide backbone. This approach is rapid, but it may not reflect similarities or differences in all mechanisms that proteins use to bind other molecules. Electric fields, for example, play a large role in recognition and their substantial range can interact with other molecules long before backbone contacts occur. To compare proteins based on their electric fields, we have developed the first algorithm designed to superpose protein structures using electric fields alone. Our method works by searching rotational and translational space for a superposition that maximizes the overlapping volume between electrostatic isopotentials. Applying this method to compare the serine protease and enolase superfamilies, our results demonstrate that our electrostatic superposition algorithm can distinguish very similar proteins with different binding preferences.
Blood transcriptome changes after stroke in an African American population.

Objective Molecular diagnostic medicine holds much promise to change point of care treatment. An area where additional diagnostic tools are needed is in acute stroke care, to assist in diagnosis and prognosis. Previous studies using microarray-based gene expression analysis of peripheral blood following stroke suggests this approach may be effective. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) approaches have expanded genomic analysis and are not limited to previously identified genes on a microarray chip. Here, we report on a pilot NGS study to identify gene expression and exon expression patterns for the prediction of stroke diagnosis and prognosis. Methods We recruited 28 stroke patients and 28 age- and sex-matched hypertensive controls. RNA was extracted from 3 mL blood samples, and RNA-Seq libraries were assembled and sequenced. Results Bioinformatical analysis of the aligned RNA data reveal exonic (30%), intronic (36%), and novel RNA components (not currently annotated: 33%). We focused our study on patients with confirmed middle cerebral artery occlusion ischemic stroke (n = 17). On the basis of our observation of differential splicing of gene transcripts, we used all exonic RNA expression rather than gene expression (combined exons) to build prediction models using support vector machine algorithms. Based on model building, these models have a high predicted accuracy rate >90% (spec. 88% sen. 92%). We further stratified outcome based on the improvement in NIHss scores at discharge; based on model building we observe a predicted 100% accuracy rate. Interpretation NGS-based exon expression analysis approaches have a high potential for patient diagnosis and outcome prediction, with clear utility to aid in clinical patient care.
Takayasu arteritis: surgical interventions

Purpose of reviewOpen and endovascular surgery remains important in the management of Takayasu arteritis. This review summarizes the indications and approaches available, the evidence for them and recent advances.Recent findingsThe outlook in Takayasu arteritis has improved over the last decade, ref
The Chemical Relationship Between Certain Insecticidal Species of Fabaceous Plants

Certain insecticidal species of plants representing six genera of the family Fabaceae contain constituents that are closely related chemically. Rotenone is found in Cracca, Derris, Lonchocarpus, Millettia, Mundulea and Ormocarpum . Deguelin, an isomer of rotenone, and tephrosin, a hydroxydeguelin, are found in Cracca, Derris , and Lonchocarpus . Toxicarol is found in Cracca and Derris . Other constituents of minor insecticidal value are also found in these plants.
Growth Stimulating Factors for Microörganisms

In 1901 Wildiers1 reported the discovery of a growth stimulating factor for yeast. He termed it "Bios." Since that time the question of growth factors has been one of the most interesting and widely discussed subjects of biological research. In 1925 Tanner2 presented a comprehensive review of the "Bios" question, and more recently (1933) Peskett3 contributed another survey of the literature on growth factors. It is therefore unnecessary to present herein another review on this subject other than to summarize in brief some of the most recent contributions that bear some connection to this investigation. The concepts of growth factors are not sharply defined. Hormones are essential to growth, vitamins, certain essential amino acids and certain inorganic salts, so that anyone of these constituents may be considered a growth factor. Rhan4 considers growth as essentially a chemical synthesis, but growth also involves both processes of catabolism and anabolism. Whether or not the organism is unicellular or multicellular, certain catalytic agents are essential in order that the living organism might be able to carry on its various processes of metabolism and cell division. In our opinion such an organic catalytic agent that enables the living system not only to metabolize its food but to proliferate may be considered as a growth factor or an "activator."
Advances in Oncology Care Targeted Therapies

The start of the 21st century has produced advances in cancer care that have improved both survival rates and quality of life for many persons diagnosed with cancer. Targeted therapy has given new hope for controlling cancer as a chronic illness. Alone, or in combination with traditional therapies such as surgery, radiation, and/or chemotherapy, this new form of therapy targets malignant cells, halting tumor growth and the potential metastatic spread of disease. Toxicities are limited, but some are serious and may require intensive care. It is imperative for the experienced critical care nurse to have an understanding of these new treatment options and those on the horizon, as these therapies are the future of cancer care. Whereas in previous decades, patients with cancer may not have survived an intensive care admission for treatment complications or advanced disease, many patients now are recovering from life-threatening events, continuing treatment for their disease, and going on to live meaningful, good-quality lives.
The Synthesis of Methyl-Substituted Spirocyclic Piperidine-Azetidine (2,7-Diazaspiro[3.5]nonane) and Spirocyclic Piperidine-Pyrrolidine (2,8-Diazaspiro[4.5]decane) Ring Systems

The synthesis of a series of pharmaceutically important N-protected methyl-substituted spirocyclic piperidine-azetidine (2,7-diazaspiro[3.5]nonane) and spirocyclic piperidine-pyrrolidine (2,8-diazaspiro[4.5]decane) ring systems was developed. These motifs contain two differentiated sites (protected secondary amines) to allow for further functionalization via reductive amination, amidation, or other chemistry. The methyl-substituted spiroazetidine ring systems were accessed using nitrile lithiation/alkylation chemistry while the methyl-substituted spiropyrrolidines were synthesized by 1,4-addition reactions with nitroalkanes, followed by reduction and cyclization. These conditions were then scaled for the synthesis of 1-methyl spirocyclic piperidine-pyrrolidine with a classical resolution of the product using a tartaric acid derivative to isolate a single enantiomer.
Tort Law, Preemption and Risk Management

Professor Eggen has carefully outlined the preemption doctrine and its impact to date on toxic tort law.' Her conclusion, a correct one in my view, indicates that there is little doctrinal coherence or consistent policy basis for the courts' recent preemption decisions in the pesticide and medical devices context. I suggest that there is ample reason for the courts' confusion. Preemption as a legal mechanism simply does not address the difficult problems that regulation and tort law face.The preemption doctrine provides a vehicle for Congress and the courts to articulate the relationship between state and federal law in a wide variety of social and economic contexts. However, social needs and goals vary in different contexts and federalism usually will be only one of a number of important concerns. If the other, often more basic concerns are not well understood or are not integrated into the substantive law, then the preemption doctrine will not likely make up the difference. Rather, applying the doctrine may further confuse the issues. In the area of toxic torts, the underlying substantive questions are serious and need to be answered. The cautious assumptions of the preemption doctrine should be carefully heeded.To explain why we should pay particular attention to these assumptions, we need to consider the subject matter of the law. Although lawyers commonly speak of tort law, toxic torts, and regulation as though they are addressing separate phenomena, it is useful to consider them as different types of responses to a related group of technological developments. So, for purposes of this discussion, I will speak of toxic torts and tort law as synonymous and also treat regulation in the food, drug, occupational and environmental contexts as one type of regulation. The common terminology in this area has developed in the separate areas of law, thus there is no readily available vocabulary with which to discuss their commonalities.
Clearance Pathways and Tumor Targeting of Imaging Nanoparticles.

A basic understanding of how imaging nanoparticles are removed from the normal organs/tissues but retained in the tumors is important for their future clinical applications in early cancer diagnosis and therapy. In this review, we discuss current understandings of clearance pathways and tumor targeting of small-molecule- and inorganic-nanoparticle-based imaging probes with an emphasis on molecular nanoprobes, a class of inorganic nanoprobes that can escape reticuloendothelial system (RES) uptake and be rapidly eliminated from the normal tissues/organs via kidneys but can still passively target the tumor with high efficiency through the enhanced permeability permeability and retention (EPR) effect. The impact of nanoparticle design (size, shape, and surface chemistry) on their excretion, pharmacokinetics, and passive tumor targeting were quantitatively discussed. Synergetic integration of effective renal clearance and EPR effect offers a promising pathway to design low-toxicity and high-contrast-enhancemen...
Behaviorally and perinatally HIV-infected young women: targets for preconception counseling.

ABSTRACTThis study aimed to describe demographic and psychological characteristics among HIV-infected young women, and to identify knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors associated with conception, with the goal of informing interventions or programmatic decisions regarding preconception counseling methods for young women living with HIV. Behaviorally and perinatally HIV-infected young women (n = 34) were conveniently sampled in Miami, Florida. Participants were asked to complete measures of reproductive knowledge, attitudes toward conception, and risk behaviors, as well as measures of depression and cognitive functioning. Perinatally and behaviorally HIV-infected young women were very similar in important areas of health preconception practices such as conception-related health literacy and conception-related communication with providers. Behaviorally infected women, however, were somewhat more likely to have been pregnant in the past, and had greater knowledge of healthy contraception practices and family ...
Meaningful Use of Electronic Health Records and Medicare Expenditures: Evidence from a Panel Data Analysis of U.S. Health Care Markets, 2010-2013.

Objective To determine if recent growth in hospital and physician electronic health record (EHR) adoption and use is correlated with decreases in expenditures for elderly Medicare beneficiaries. Data Sources American Hospital Association (AHA) General Survey and Information Technology Supplement, Health Information Management Systems Society (HIMSS) Analytics survey, SK&A Information Services, and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Chronic Conditions Data Warehouse Geographic Variation Database for 2010 through 2013. Study Design Fixed effects model comparing associations between hospital referral region (HRR) level measures of hospital and physician EHR penetration and annual Medicare expenditures for beneficiaries with one of four chronic conditions. Calculated hospital penetration rates as the percentage of Medicare discharges from hospitals that satisfied criteria analogous to Meaningful Use (MU) Stage 1 requirements and physician rates as the percentage of physicians using ambulatory care EHRs. Principal Findings An increase in the hospital penetration rate was associated with a small but statistically significant decrease in total Medicare and Medicare Part A acute care expenditures per beneficiary. An increase in physician EHR penetration was also associated with a significant decrease in total Medicare and Medicare Part A acute care expenditures per beneficiary as well as a decrease in Medicare Part B expenditures per beneficiary. For the study population, we estimate approximately $3.8 billion in savings related to hospital and physician EHR adoption during 2010–2013. We also found that an increase in physician EHR penetration was associated with an increase in lab test expenses. Conclusions Health care markets that had steeper increases in EHR penetration during 2010–2013 also had steeper decreases in total Medicare and acute care expenditures per beneficiary. Markets with greater increases in physician EHR had greater declines in Medicare Part B expenditures per beneficiary.
Molecular origins of dynamic coupling between water and hydrated polyacrylate gels

Energy efficient separation of dilute alcohol–water mixtures is a critical consideration in commercialization of biofuels; pervaporation is an attractive separation technique for this purpose. Knowledge of the mechanism of solvent mobility inside polymeric membranes is of great interest for designing pervaporation-based separation processes. Recently, we employed molecular simulations to study water structure in three polyacrylate gels composed of homopolymers and copolymers of n-butyl acrylate (P(BA)) and 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate (P(HEA)). In this work, water and ethanol dynamics were studied using simulations in two systems: polyacrylate gels swollen to equilibrium and gels with low water content. Solvent dynamics show a concentration-dependent behavior in the gels. For gels swollen to equilibrium, both water and ethanol exhibit the highest mobility in the P(HEA) gel due to the larger degree of swelling of the system, while for gels with a low solvent content, they show the lowest mobility in the P(HEA) ...
Rating User Interface and Universal Instructional Design in MOOC Course Design

This study examines how college students rate Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) in terms of User Interface Design and Universal Instructional Design. The research participants were 115 undergraduate students from a public midwestern university in the United States. Each participant evaluated three randomly chosen MOOCs, all of which were developed on the Coursera platform, using rubrics for User Interface Design and Universal Instructional Design. The results indicated that students had an overall positive impression of each MOOC’s course design. This study concludes that overall course design strategies are not associated with the massive dropout rates currently documented in MOOC learning environments. The authors suggest the use of appropriate instructional design principles be further explored.
Clinical Trials to Gain FDA Approval for Computerized Cognitive Training: What Is the Ideal Control Condition?

The explosive growth of mobile technologies combined with the rapid rise of aging populations fearful of their risk for Alzheimer's disease has led to a number of marketed products aimed at enhancing cognitive health. However, an increasing number of product claims that are not substantiated has led regulatory agencies, such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), to issue warnings or penalties against some companies. Therefore, it is likely that a number of computerized cognitive training (CCT) companies will conduct clinical trials to prove their efficacy to gain Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance as a medical software/device. This raises a number of issues such as optimal trial design for establishing efficacy. The type of control condition is unique issue for CCT, given the variety of non-specific known to produce beneficial effects on cognition that are difficult to isolate from the content of the program. These include participant expectancy, engagement, motivation, novelty, and therapist interaction. We herein discuss the types of non-specific factors, desirable qualities of an active control condition, and the nuances that exist between previously used control conditions within the context of CCT for mild cognitive impairment.
Solute segregation and deviation from bulk thermodynamics at nanoscale crystalline defects.

It has long been known that solute segregation at crystalline defects can have profound effects on material properties. Nevertheless, quantifying the extent of solute segregation at nanoscale defects has proven challenging due to experimental limitations. A combined experimental and first-principles approach has been used to study solute segregation at extended intermetallic phases ranging from 4 to 35 atomic layers in thickness. Chemical mapping by both atom probe tomography and high-resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy demonstrates a markedly different composition for the 4–atomic-layer–thick phase, where segregation has occurred, compared to the approximately 35–atomic-layer–thick bulk phase of the same crystal structure. First-principles predictions of bulk free energies in conjunction with direct atomistic simulations of the intermetallic structure and chemistry demonstrate the breakdown of bulk thermodynamics at nanometer dimensions and highlight the importance of symmetry breaking due to the proximity of interfaces in determining equilibrium properties.
Neutralization of contrast in the vowel system of Urhobo

Urhobo, a South Western Edoid language of the Niger-Congo family, is spoken in Delta State, Nigeria. In the synchronic phonology of the language, there are seven surface vowels: [i, e, , ?, a, ?, o, u], but the behavior of some vowels, especially e, o, ?, is sometimes at variance with their expected vowel behavior, indicating that there may be abstract underlying vowels */?, ?, ?)1 which have merged with /e, o, ?/. The result, when compared with sister languages such as Degema and Isoko, is that the Urhobo system appears quite complex. The focus of this paper is showing that abstract underlying */?, ?, ?/, which are Proto Edoid vowels, still have an effect in the synchronic phonology: thus, /?, ?/ become [e], /?, o/ become [o], and /?, ?/ become [?] and possibly [a]. When we account for the 'awkward' behavior of apparent /e, o, ?/, the Urhobo vowel system is clear and straightforward.
Impact of a Patient Navigator Program on Hospital-Based and Outpatient Utilization Over 180 Days in a Safety-Net Health System.

Background With emerging global payment structures, medical systems need to understand longer-term impacts of care transition strategies.
A socio-ecological examination of weight-related characteristics of the home environment and lifestyles of households with young children

Home environment and family lifestyle practices have an influence on child obesity risk, thereby making it critical to systematically examine these factors. Thus, parents (n = 489) of preschool children completed a cross-sectional online survey which was the baseline data collection conducted, before randomization, in the HomeStyles program. The survey comprehensively assessed these factors using a socio-ecological approach, incorporating intrapersonal, interpersonal and environmental measures. Healthy intrapersonal dietary behaviors identified were parent and child intakes of recommended amounts of 100% juice and low intakes of sugar-sweetened beverages. Unhealthy behaviors included low milk intake and high parent fat intake. The home environment’s food supply was found to support healthy intakes of 100% juice and sugar-sweetened beverages, but provided too little milk and ample quantities of salty/fatty snacks. Physical activity levels, sedentary activity and the home’s physical activity and media environment were found to be less than ideal. Environmental supports for active play inside homes were moderate and somewhat better in the area immediately outside homes and in the neighborhood. Family interpersonal interaction measures revealed several positive behaviors, including frequent family meals. Parents had considerable self-efficacy in their ability to perform food- and physical activity-related childhood obesity protective practices. This study identified lifestyle practices and home environment characteristics that health educators could target to help parents promote optimal child development and lower their children’s risk for obesity.
CM and CO chondrites: A common parent body or asteroidal neighbors? Insights from chondrule silicates

Abstract By investigating the petrology and chemical composition of type II (FeO-rich) chondrules in the Mighei-like carbonaceous (CM) chondrites we constrain their thermal histories and relationship to the Ornans-like carbonaceous (CO) chondrites. We identified FeO-rich relict grains in type II chondrules by their Fe/Mn ratios; their presence indicates chondrule recycling among type II chondrules. The majority of relict grains in type II chondrules are FeO-poor olivine grains. Consistent with previous studies, chemical similarities between CM and CO chondrite chondrules indicate that they had similar formation conditions and that their parent bodies probably formed in a common region within the protoplanetary disk. However, important differences such as mean chondrule size and the lower abundance of FeO-poor relicts in CM chondrite type II chondrules than in CO chondrites suggest CM and CO chondrules did not form together and they likely originate from distinct parent asteroids. Despite being aqueously altered, many CM chondrites contain pre-accretionary anhydrous minerals (i.e., olivine) that are among the least thermally metamorphosed materials in chondrites according to the Cr 2 O 3 content of their ferroan olivine. The presence of these minimally altered pre-accretionary chondrule silicates suggests that samples to be returned from aqueously altered asteroids by the Hayabusa2 and OSIRIS-REx asteroid sample return missions, even highly hydrated, may contain silicates that can provide information about the pre-accretionary histories and conditions of asteroids Ryugu and Bennu, respectively.
Robotic lobectomy: revolution or evolution?

In their case report “Robotic-assisted thoracoscopic surgery: right inferior lobectomy”, Yang et al . described their technique for performing a robotic lobectomy (1). They highlight several advantages of a robotic approach and provide good illustrative photos. While robotic surgery provides advantages for the surgeon in terms of dexterity and visualization, the question remains how these advantages affect patient outcomes and whether the robotic approach is a true revolution or an evolution from other minimally invasive approaches.
The Effectiveness of Video-Based Shadowing and Tracking Pronunciation Exercises for Foreign Language Learners.

This exploratory classroom study investigated the effects of two video-assisted pronunciation interventions on the French pronunciation of 12 males and 7 females (n = 19) enrolled in a fourth-year high school French class. Interventions occurred three times per week over a semester and required participants to repeat what they heard while watching subtitled, cultural videos in French—both during class and in self-directed computer-lab exercises. Researchers assessed the improvement in pronunciation performance using pre- and posttests consisting of both read-aloud and oral free response tasks. Statistically significant improvements were observed on both tasks, with the most striking on the read-aloud task. Participants’ perceptions of interventions were also examined using both qualitative and quantitative surveys, which indicated that students appreciated the authenticity and learning autonomy of the self-directed exercises. Findings suggest that distributed practice through culturally contextualized, video-based interventions may offer an engaging way to incorporate explicit pronunciation instruction into the high school classroom
A 1.5fJ/conv-step 10b 100kS/s SAR ADC with gain-boosted dynamic comparator

This paper presents a power-efficient 10-bit SAR ADC. A novel comparator topology with a dynamic common-gate stage is proposed to increase the pre-amplification gain under a low power supply voltage, thereby reducing noise and offset. Statistical estimation and loading switching techniques are synergically combined to further improve the energy efficiency. Moreover, the SAR sequencer and clock generator share only a single dynamic DFF chain to reduce the digital power. A 40nm CMOS prototype achieves a Walden FoM of 1.5fJ/conversion-step while operating at 100kS/s from a 0.5V supply.
Hospital Readmission in Total Hip Replacement Patients in 2009 and 2014.

Abstract Objective To document changes in 30-day hospital readmission rates and causes for returning to the hospital for care in THR patients. Design Retrospective cross-sectional descriptive design. Setting Community-based acute care hospitals. Participants Total sample size (N=142,022) included THR patients (identified as ICD-9-CM procedure code 81.51) in 2009 (n=31,232) and (n=32,863) in 2014. Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures 30-Day hospital readmission. Results The overall readmission rate decreased by 1.3% from 2009 to 2014. The decrease in readmission rates varied by groups, with lesser improvements seen in THR patients who were younger, with private insurance, and residing in lower-income and rural communities. Device complications were the leading cause of readmission in THR patients, increasing from 19.8% in 2009 to 23.9% in 2014. Conclusions There has been little decrease in hospital 30-day readmission rates for US community hospitals between 2009 and 2014. Findings from this brief report indicate patient groups at greater risk for 30-day hospital readmission as well as leading causes for readmission in THR patients which can inform the development of tailored interventions for reduction.
Creating Simple Databases and Solving Business Problems

Packed with more than 16,000 columns and more than 1 million rows, each Excel worksheet has enough space to contain serious amounts of data—so it’s great for creating a database to store information and quickly find the items you need.
Silver as a Financial Tool in Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia

Although ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia are often considered to have been very similar in their economic structures, it is clear that the attitudes toward silver differed substantially between the two. This paper surveys the evidence for the economic uses of silver in both cultures during the third and second millennia BC, and attempts to explain the reasons for the differences we can observe in the ancient source material.
Behavior of some sealing arrangements for machine tool spindles

A test stand has been built and instrumental to simulate conditions in the spindle cavity of production machine tools, such as high-speed transfer machines, machining centers, milling machines, etc. The purpose of the simulation is to better understand causes of premature support rolling element bearing failures due to grease degradation and corrosion, from the ingress of coolant vapor. Performance characteristics based on coolant vapor in the test chamber, as measured by relative humidity, chamber temperature and chamber pressure retalive to the lab atmosphere were obtained for a radical double-lip seal, labyrinth seal, viscoseal/face seal combination and a mechanical face seal. For the operating conditions considered, the best performance was obtained from the viscoseal/face seal combination followed by the labyrinth seal.
PET scan-directed chemoradiation (CRT) for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC): No benefit for salvage chemo in PET non-responders (PETnr).

4055Background: Pre-operative or definitive CRT is standard for locally advanced (LA) ESCC. We previously showed that PET response after induction chemo and prior to CRT and surgery strongly predic...
Scene text access: a comparison of mobile OCR modalities for blind users

We present a study with seven blind participants using three different mobile OCR apps to find text posted in various indoor environments. The first app considered was Microsoft SeeingAI in its Short Text mode, which reads any text in sight with a minimalistic interface. The second app was Spot+OCR, a custom application that separates the task of text detection from OCR proper. Upon detection of text in the image, Spot+OCR generates a short vibration; as soon as the user stabilizes the phone, a high-resolution snapshot is taken and OCR-processed. The third app, Guided OCR, was designed to guide the user in taking several pictures in a 360° span at the maximum resolution available by the camera, with minimum overlap between pictures. Quantitative results (in terms of true positive ratios and traversal speed) were recorded. Along with the qualitative observation and outcomes from an exit survey, these results allow us to identify and assess the different strategies used by our participants, as well as the challenges of operating these systems without sight.
Quantifying the effects of mastitis on the reproductive performance of dairy cows: A meta-analysis

The objective of this study was to conduct a meta-analysis to quantitatively characterize the effects of mastitis on the reproductive performance of dairy cows as well as to identify factors that interact with this relationship. A total of 29 publications were identified that contributed 24, 41, 27, 38, and 13 trial results to the meta-analysis of how mastitis is related to time to first service (TFS), days open (DO), services per conception (SPC), pregnancies per insemination at first service (FSP/AI) and pregnancy loss (PL), respectively. The meta-analyses were conducted using multilevel linear mixed-effects models. Overall, high levels of heterogeneity were present and meta-regression models only explained a small amount of heterogeneity. Results suggest that cows with mastitis pre-first insemination experience, on average, an additional 13.29 d to first service [95% confidence interval (CI): 6.64, 19.95] when compared with cows with no mastitis in the same time period. Moreover, in relation to cows with no mastitis in the same time period, 22.34 additional DO (95% CI: 12.89, 31.79) were estimated, on average, for cows with clinical mastitis at pre-insemination leading to conception. Additionally, 32.41 added DO (95% CI: 20.58, 44.25) were estimated, on average, for cows with clinical mastitis at pre- or post-insemination leading to conception compared with cows with no mastitis in the same time period. Finally, 20.03 additional DO (95% CI: 3.11, 36.95) were estimated, on average, for cows with subclinical mastitis pre- or post-insemination leading to conception compared with cows with no mastitis in the same time period. Effect size estimates from the meta-regression models for SPC, in relation to cows with no mastitis in the same time period, suggest that, on average, SPC increases by 0.46 inseminations (95% CI: 0.30, 0.62) for a cow experiencing mastitis pre-insemination leading to conception. When mastitis occurs either pre- or post-insemination leading to conception, SPC is expected to increase, on average, by 0.72 inseminations (95% CI: 0.48, 0.95) compared with cows with no mastitis in the same time period. The estimated effect sizes for FSP/AI suggest a risk ratio of conceiving at first insemination of 0.90 (95% CI: 0.82, 0.99) for cows with mastitis diagnosed pre-first insemination with respect to cows with no mastitis in the same time period, and a risk ratio of 0.79 (95% CI: 0.72, 0.86) for cows diagnosed with mastitis either pre- or post-first insemination with respect to cows with no mastitis in the same time period. Publication bias was identified in 4 of the meta-analysis models (TFS, DO, SPC, and FSCR), but no influential trials were identified in any models; the reliability of the meta-analysis results should be interpreted carefully keeping these limitations in mind. Further meta-regression analysis would be valuable as additional studies are published that report other potential sources of heterogeneity.
Expressed Sex Ratio in Populations of the Moss Hamatocaulis vernicosus (Mitt.) Hedenäs (Scorpidiaceae) in the Czech Republic with Consideration of its Cryptic Species

We assessed the sex expression and expressed sex ratio in populations of the moss Hamatocaulis vernicosus (Mitt.) Hedenas at 21 localities in the Czech Republic. Despite its extremely rare sporophyte production, the species had a high sex expression (59% of shoots); however, the method of its calculation had a major impact on results. The micromaps of individual localities showed that male and female plants tend to grow in separate clusters, while only 7% of patches contain both sexes, which may affect the frequency of fertilization. The overall F:M sex ratio of stems was 1.03; however, the 62% of localities showed female-biased sex ratio. As the species is known to consist of two cryptic species that are presumably sexually incompatible, we also assessed the expressed sex ratio of barcoded shoots at the localities with populations of both cryptic species growing together. The cryptic species differed neither in their sex expression nor in the sex ratio. However, the overall seemingly well-balanced sex ratio at localities often obscured situations when severe mate limitation in one of the cryptic species occurred.
Visualizing microcalcifications in lumpectomy specimens: an exploration into the clinical potential of carbon nanotube-enabled stationary digital breast tomosynthesis.

Purpose To assess the visibility of microcalcifications in images generated by a first-generation carbon-nanotube (CNT)-enabled stationary digital breast tomosynthesis (sDBT) device, using magnified 2D mammography and conventional, moving-source DBT as references for comparison. Methods Lumpectomy specimens were imaged by magnified mammography and two 3D mammography approaches, including sDBT and moving-source DBT. The planar size of individual microcalcifications was measured in the reconstructed image stacks of sDBT and moving-source DBT and compared to the magnified mammography image. An artifact spread function (ASF) was used to assess the depth dimensions of the microcalcifications displayed through the reconstructed image stacks. Breast-imaging specialists rated their preference for one imaging modality over another when interpreting microcalcifications in the magnified mammography image and synthetic slab images from sDBT and moving-source DBT. Results The planar size of individual microcalcifications was similar in images generated by sDBT and moving-source DBT when the sDBT projections were binned to match the pixel size used by the moving-source DBT system. However, the unique structure of sDBT allowed for a wider-angle span of projection views and operation of the detector in full-resolution mode without significantly compromising the scan time. In this configuration, the planar sizes of individual microcalcifications displayed by sDBT was more similar to magnified mammography than moving-source DBT, and the microcalcifications had a narrower ASF through depth. Readers preferred sDBT over moving-source DBT when assessing microcalcifications in synthetic slab images, although magnified mammography was rated highest overall. Conclusions The sDBT system displayed microcalcifications as well as conventional, moving-source DBT when the effective pixel size of the detector was matched. However, with the detector in its full-resolution mode, sDBT displayed microcalcifications with greater clarity. Readers still preferred images generated by magnified mammography over both 3D mammography approaches. This finding is guiding continued hardware and software development to optimize the sDBT technology.
Isolation of Leukocytes from Human Breast Milk for Use in an Antibody-dependent Cellular Phagocytosis Assay of HIV Targets

Even in the absence of antiretroviral drugs, only ~15% of infants breastfed by HIV-infected mothers become infected, suggesting a strong protective effect of breast milk (BM). Unless access to clean water and appropriate infant formula is reliable, the WHO does not recommend cessation of breastfeeding for HIV-infected mothers. Numerous factors likely work in tandem to reduce BM transmission. Breastfed infants ingest ~105-108 maternal leukocytes daily, though what remains largely unclear is the contribution of these cells to the antiviral qualities of BM. Presently we aimed to isolate cells from human BM in order to measure antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP), one of the most essential and pervasive innate immune responses, by BM phagocytes against HIV targets. Cells were isolated from 5 human BM samples obtained at various stages of lactation. Isolation was carried out via gentle centrifugation followed by careful removal of milk fat and repeated washing of the cell pellet. Fluorescent beads coated with HIV envelope (Env) epitope were used as targets for analysis of ADCP. Cells were stained with the CD45 surface marker to identify leukocytes. It was found that ADCP activity was significant above control experiments and reproducibly measurable using an HIV-specific antibody 830A.
Making the business case for an addiction medicine consult service: a qualitative analysis.

As the drug poisoning crisis worsens in North America and opioid use disorder (OUD)-related hospital admissions increase, policymakers and hospital administrators are beginning to recognize the important role of hospitals in the OUD care continuum. This study explores and describes how U.S. addiction medicine physicians created and presented business propositions to hospital administrators to support the development of addiction medicine consult (AMC) services. Fifteen qualitative interviews were completed with board-certified or board-eligible addiction medicine physicians from 14 U.S. hospitals. The interviews occurred as part of a broader mixed methods study exploring hospital service delivery for patients admitted with OUD. Using a directed content analysis, the transcribed interviews were coded, analyzed, and final themes consolidated. Semi-structured interviews completed with addiction medicine physicians from established (n = 9) and developing (n = 5) AMC services at 14 U.S. hospitals explored how clinical champions persuaded hospital administrators to support AMC service development. Four elements were foundational to making the “business case”: 1) describing the prevalence of substance use disorder (SUD) or OUD in the hospital; 2) identifying the negative financial impacts of not treating SUDs during hospitalization; 3) highlighting the ongoing care quality and treatment gap for hospitalized patients with SUDs; and 4) noting the success of other institutional AMC services. Study findings informed the creation of tools to support AMC service development: 1) an AMC service business case template, and 2) an AMC service design and operations resource list. OUD-related hospital admissions are unlikely to abate. Hospital administrators should consider innovative care delivery mechanisms to improve care for persons with OUD. AMC services may be a promising delivery mechanism to achieve this aim. For clinical and administrative champions, understanding how to communicate the potential effectiveness of this intervention to hospital leaders is an essential first step to AMC service creation.
Spacer Design Options and Consideration for Periprosthetic Joint Infection

An articulating or nonarticulating antibiotic hip spacer can be placed following the first stage implant removal of a periprosthetic hip joint infection. Antibiotic spacers help fill in the dead space created at the time of resection and provide a high local concentration of antibiotics. Theoretical advantages of a static spacer include a higher elution of antibiotics because of the increased surface area, the ability to protect deficient bone in the proximal femur/acetabulum, and the ability to immobilize the periarticular soft tissues. Advantages of an articulating spacer include improved ambulation and easier motion for the patient, maintenance of soft tissue tension, and an easier surgical reconstruction at the time of the second stage. Additionally, an articulating antibiotic spacer may minimize the risk of dislocation following the second stage reconstruction. The choice of articulating or nonarticulating is currently one of surgeon preference yet it is advised that surgeons consider an articulating spacer for all patients except those with severe femoral/acetabular bone loss or deficient abductors.
Chapter 3 – Adenovirus Replication

Publisher Summary This chapter describes the replication of adenovirus. Ad DNA replication is the result of an organized interplay between viral proteins, cellular factors, and viral template DNA at distinct sites within the nucleus termed replication factories. DNA synthesis requires three viral proteins (Ad Pol, pTP, and DBP) encoded by the E2 region of the Ad chromosome. Ad replication is significantly stimulated by three cellular proteins (NFI/CTF, NFII, and NFIII/Oct-1). Ad replication is initiated by a protein priming event, followed by a "jumping back" mechanism, and completion by strand elongation to termination. The use of adenovirus as a model system has led to a wealth of information regarding many aspects of viral as well as cellular processes, including transcriptional and posttranscriptional regulation, oncogenic transformation, virus entry into host cells, virus-host immunological interactions, translational regulation, and DNA replication. A greater understanding of adenovirus infection as a whole will allow for better development and applications of gene therapy vectors through rational design.
Low cost mode-locked laser source for two-photon microscopy

The objective of this project is to develop a low cost laser source for two-photon microscopy for increasing optical resolution and contrast to be used for research and deep imagining purposes.
Non-traumatic Dorsalis Pedis Artery Aneurysm:

A true dorsalis pedis artery aneurysm is a very rare find. This is a case presentation of a patient with an asymptomatic non-traumatic dorsalis pedis artery aneurysm. A 49-year-old man was referred...
COVID-19: Comparative Analysis of Methods for Identifying Articles Related to Therapeutics and Vaccines without Using Labeled Data

Here we proposed an approach to analyze text classification methods based on the presence or absence of task-specific terms (and their synonyms) in the text. We applied this approach to study six different transfer-learning and unsupervised methods for screening articles relevant to COVID-19 vaccines and therapeutics. The analysis revealed that while a BERT model trained on search-engine results generally performed well, it miss-classified relevant abstracts that did not contain task-specific terms. We used this insight to create a more effective unsupervised ensemble.
Enhancing the Efficiency of and Equity in Transplant Organ Allocation via Incentivized Exchange

Within the last decade kidney exchange has become a mainstream paradigm to increase the number of kidney transplants. However, compatible pairs do not participate, and the full benefit from exchange can be realized only if they do. In this paper, we propose a new incentive scheme that relies on incentivizing participation of compatible pairs in exchange via insurance for the patient for a future renal failure. Efficiency and equity analyses of this scheme are conducted and compared with efficiency and equity outcomes of live donation and living donor organ exchange. We also present the potential role of such an incentive scheme to strengthen the national kidney exchange system.
Attempting to Consolidate Power: Analyzing Muhammad Bin Salman's Policies in Saudi Arabia

Recently the world was awoken to a show of force by Muhammad bin Salman (MbS), the Crown Prince of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. In a relatively short period of time, the prince has managed to remove any real or imagined rivals from the centers of political and economic power and authority in Saudi Arabia, by charging them with corruption. It is presented to a foreign, especially western, audience1 as an anti-corruption drive by an energetic young reformer against old vested interests. It is cleverly couched in the liberal language of technocratic reform in the style of Emmanuel Macron, and liberal pundits emphasize its “revolutionary” potential. Hence, MbS’ allegedly necessary and urgent actions appeal to both domestic and international audiences.