cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Unleashing the clinical power of T cells: CD19/CD3 bi-specific T cell engager (BiTE®) antibody construct blinatumomab as a potential therapy

Multi-agent chemotherapy is the standard treatment for most B cell malignancies. Since chemotherapy can be associated with significant toxicity and since relapses resistant to chemotherapy often develop, new therapies are needed. Blinatumomab (AMG 103 or MT103) is a late-stage candidate in clinical development, which belongs to a novel class of antibody constructs termed bi-specific T cell engager antibodies. This antibody construct has dual specificity for CD19 and CD3 and can re-direct polyclonal cytotoxic T lymphocytes toward the tumor. This review focuses on the pre-clinical and clinical development of blinatumomab as a powerful new tool in the treatment of B cell malignancies.
System identification of linear structures based on Hilbert–Huang spectral analysis. Part 2: Complex modes

A method, based on the Hilbert–Huang spectral analysis, has been proposed by the authors to identify linear structures in which normal modes exist (i.e., real eigenvalues and eigenvectors). Frequently, all the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of linear structures are complex. In this paper, the method is extended further to identify general linear structures with complex modes using the free vibration response data polluted by noise. Measured response signals are first decomposed into modal responses using the method of Empirical Mode Decomposition with intermittency criteria. Each modal response contains the contribution of a complex conjugate pair of modes with a unique frequency and a damping ratio. Then, each modal response is decomposed in the frequency–time domain to yield instantaneous phase angle and amplitude using the Hilbert transform. Based on a single measurement of the impulse response time history at one appropriate location, the complex eigenvalues of the linear structure can be identified using a simple analysis procedure. When the response time histories are measured at all locations, the proposed methodology is capable of identifying the complex mode shapes as well as the mass, damping and stiffness matrices of the structure. The effectiveness and accuracy of the method presented are illustrated through numerical simulations. It is demonstrated that dynamic characteristics of linear structures with complex modes can be identified effectively using the proposed method. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparative Prevalence of Immune Evasion Complex Genes Associated with β-Hemolysin Converting Bacteriophages in MRSA ST5 Isolates from Swine, Swine Facilities, Humans with Swine Contact, and Humans with No Swine Contact

Livestock associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (LA-MRSA) draws concern from the public health community because in some countries these organisms may represent the largest reservoir of MRSA outside hospital settings. Recent studies indicate LA-MRSA strains from swine are more genetically diverse than the first reported sequence type ST398. In the US, a diverse population of LA-MRSA is found including organisms of the ST398, ST9, and ST5 lineages. Occurrence of ST5 MRSA in swine is of particular concern since ST5 is among the most prevalent lineages causing clinical infections in humans. The prominence of ST5 in clinical disease is believed to result from acquisition of bacteriophages containing virulence or host-adapted genes including the immune-evasion cluster (IEC) genes carried by β-hemolysin converting bacteriophages, whose absence in LA-MRSA ST398 is thought to contribute to reduced rates of human infection and transmission associated with this lineage. The goal of this study was to investigate the prevalence of IEC genes associated with β-hemolysin converting bacteriophages in MRSA ST5 isolates obtained from agricultural sources, including swine, swine facilities, and humans with short- or long-term swine exposure. To gain a broader perspective, the prevalence of these genes in LA-MRSA ST5 strains was compared to the prevalence in clinical MRSA ST5 strains from humans with no known exposure to swine. IEC genes were not present in any of the tested MRSA ST5 strains from agricultural sources and the β-hemolysin gene was intact in these strains, indicating the bacteriophage’s absence. In contrast, the prevalence of the β-hemolysin converting bacteriophage in MRSA ST5 strains from humans with no exposure to swine was 90.4%. The absence of β-hemolysin converting bacteriophage in LA-MRSA ST5 isolates is consistent with previous reports evaluating ST398 strains and provides genetic evidence indicating LA-MRSA ST5 isolates may harbor a reduced capacity to cause severe disease in immunocompetent humans.
Testing an individual systems model of response evaluation and decision (RED) and antisocial behavior across adolescence.

This study examined the bidirectional development of aggressive response evaluation and decision (RED) and antisocial behavior across five time points in adolescence. Participants (n = 522) were asked to imagine themselves behaving aggressively while viewing videotaped ambiguous provocations and answered a set of RED questions following each aggressive retaliation (administered at Grades 8 and 11 [13 and 16 years, respectively]). Self- and mother reports of antisocial behavior were collected at Grades 7, 9/10, and 12 (12, 14/15, and 17 years, respectively). Using structural equation modeling, the study found a partial mediating effect at each hypothesized mediational path despite high stability of antisocial behavior across adolescence. Findings are consistent with an individual systems perspective by which adolescents’ antisocial conduct influences how they evaluate aggressive interpersonal behaviors, which affects their future antisocial conduct.
Laparoendoscopic single-site pfannenstiel donor nephrectomy.

Objectives To describe laparoendoscopic single site (LESS) donor nephrectomy procedure through a Pfannenstiel incision. Laparoscopic donor nephrectomy has become the standard approach in harvesting kidneys from live donors. This is usually performed through 3 ports placed in a triangular manner in addition to the Pfannenstiel incision where the kidney is removed. Methods Through a 5 cm Pfannenstiel incision, three 5 mm ports were placed in a triangular manner. A 5 mm flexible-tip laparoscope was used to perform laparoscopic donor nephrectomy. Before ligating the renal hilum, the superior midline trocar was exchanged for a 12-mm trocar to allow for an Endo-GIA stapler. After the kidney was placed in the entrapment sac, the anterior rectus fascia between the 2 midline ports was incised and the kidney was removed. After closure of the fascial defects, the Pfannenstiel incision was closed in a subcuticular manner. Results LESS Pfannenstiel donor nephrectomy was successfully performed in 6 patients without standard laparoscopic or open conversion. No additional needlescopic instruments were used. The median age was 46 years with median body mass index of 28.3 kg/m 2 . The median operative time was 142 minutes with a median warm ischemia time of 5 minutes. Median hospital stay was 2 days and the median pain score at discharge was 0. None of the patients received transfusions perioperatively and none had peri-operative complications. Conclusions LESS Pfannenstiel donor nephrectomy offers the benefits of improved cosmesis over the standard laparoscopic donor nephrectomy. Prospective randomized trials are needed to compare the postoperative pain levels in between these 2 techniques.
Militares Empresarios: Approaches to Studying the Military as an Economic Actor

In the twentieth century, Latin American militaries developed economic industries, organised businesses, and provided security and development assistance in lieu of the state. Despite shifts to democracy and the market, the military remains an economic actor in many countries in the region. This article seeks to open debate and suggest ways to approach the subject theoretically. It examines the concept of military entrepreneurs and scholarship on the topic, and then suggests how three approaches from the domain of comparative politics – rational, structural and cultural – can be useful to develop theoretical frameworks for studying the military’s role in the economy.
Controlled expression of Drosophila homeobox loci using the Hostile takeover system.

Background Hostile takeover (Hto) is a Drosophila protein trapping system that allows the investigator to both induce a gene and tag its product. The Hto transposon carries a GAL4-regulated promoter expressing an exon encoding a FLAG-mCherry tag. Upon expression, the Hto exon can splice to a downstream genomic exon, generating a fusion transcript and tagged protein.
Semiconductor ultra-violet light-emitting diodes for flash photolysis

'Caged' compounds are biological molecules that are rendered inactive by a protecting (cage) group. Photocleaving of chemical bonds associated with the cage species with intense UV light results in the release of the active molecules. This technique, called flash photolysis, allows for real-time study of interacting biological molecules and typically involves the use of high intensity lasers or flash lamps to deliver the UV pulse to the biological specimen [Callaway EM, Katz LC. Photostimulation using caged glutamate reveals functional circuitry in living brain slices. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 1993;90(16):7661-5; Parpura V, Haydon PG. "Uncaging" using optical fibers to deliver UV light directly to the sample. Croat Med J 1999;40(3):340-5; Denk W. Pulsing mercury arc lamps for uncaging and fast imaging. J Neurosci Methods 1997;72(1):39-42]. Here, we introduce compact, custom-designed semiconductor UV light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as a viable and efficient source for performing flash photolysis studies, focusing specifically on the application of these devices for uncaging neurotransmitters locally onto neurons cultured on artificial substrates. The illumination design feature incorporated in these devices allows for direct placement of the UV source in immediate proximity with the neuron of interest and provides a means for optical triggering of activity in the neuronal culture.
The ARCS radial collimator

We have designed, installed, and commissioned a scattered beam radial collimator for use at the ARCS Wide Angular Range Chopper Spectrometer at the Spallation Neutron Source. The collimator has been designed to work effectively for thermal and epithermal neutrons and with a range of sample environments. Other design considerations include the accommodation of working within a high vacuum environment and having the ability to quickly install and remove the collimator from the scattered beam. We present here characterization of the collimator's performance and methodologies for its effective use.
Community-based Rehabilitation Needs: Perceptions of Individuals with Brain Injury and Their Families in the Midwestern United States

This study investigated the rehabilitation and services needs, rehabilitation goals and barriers of individuals with brain injury (n = 81, males = 59%, females = 41%, age range 18 to 87), and their family members (n = 19; females = 75%, age range 18 to 65), (ethnicity = white = 89%). Data were collected using a survey instrument and focus group interviews. A descriptive analysis of the quantitative data was conducted, while content analysis was used to analyse the qualitative data. Results suggest that individuals with brain injury and their families experience many unmet needs across the domains of employment, independent living, financial resources and housing. Family involvement was found to be important to community participation after brain injury.
Fables: Ways of Knowing and Understanding Meaning in Nursing:

Fables are literary short stories intended to convey a moral maxim for some aspect of human living. Within the discipline of nursing, a fable is a medium by which stories and themes of humanly lived phenomena may be viewed in light of a particular philosophical lens of understanding. The fable offers possibilities for instruction through illuminating fictitious characters and offering notions for what a member of a discipline ought to do. In this article, the author shall present a fable and offer an interpretation from a human becoming perspective for what one ought to do in the discipline of nursing.
Predicting neonatal intubation competency in trainees.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Pediatric residency training programs are graduating residents who are not competent in neonatal intubation, a vital skill needed for any pediatrician involved in delivery room resuscitations. However, a precise definition of competency during training is lacking. The objective of this study was to more precisely define the trajectory toward competency in neonatal intubation for pediatric residents, as a framework for later evaluating complementary training tools. METHODS: This is a retrospective single-center observational study of resident-performed neonatal intubations at Duke University Medical Center between 2005 and 2013. Using a Bayesian statistical model, intubation competency was defined when the resident attained a 75% likelihood of intubating their next patient successfully. RESULTS: A total of 477 unique intubation attempts by 105 residents were analyzed. The path to proficiency was defined by a categorical or milestone learning event after which all learners move toward competency in a similar manner. In our cohort, 4 cumulative successes were needed to achieve competency. Only 24 of 105 (23%) achieved competency during the study period. Residents who failed their first 2 opportunities, compared with those successful on their first 2 opportunities, needed nearly double the intubation exposure to achieve competency. CONCLUSIONS: Bayesian statistics may be useful to more precisely describe neonatal intubation competency in residents. Achieving competency in neonatal intubation appears to be a categorical or milestone learning event whose timing varies between residents. The current educational environment does not provide adequate procedural exposure to achieve competency for most residents.
Real-Time System Identification of a Small Multi-Engine Aircraft with Structural Damage

We present results of system identification of a tw in engine fixed wing aircraft with structural damage. Flight test data recorded as the aircraft p erforms a specifically selected system identificati on maneuver with 25% left wing missing is used. This data has been used to estimate a complete six degree of freedom aircraft linear model with asymmetric stability derivatives using the recursive Fourier Transform Regression method in frequency domain and the traditional least squares method in time domain. This paper shows the feasibility o f using the frequency domain Fourier Transform Regression method for real-time parameter identification of damaged aircraft.
Coexistent Sarcoidosis and HIV Infection* A Comparison of Bronchoalveolar and Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes

A case of pulmonary sarcoidosis diagnosed in an human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected man is reported. The transbronchial lung biopsy specimen revealed noncaseating granuloma. A comparison of the lymphocyte subsets in both peripheral blood and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid revealed a pattern more typical of HIV infection than of classic sarcoidosis. A course of prednisone led to improvement in symptoms, roentgenographic findings, lung volumes, and diffusion capacity.
The zero dispersion limit, a deterministic analogue of turbulence

Weak limits of oscillatory sequences of dispersive compressible flows show a remarkable resemblance to the ensemble averages of classical turbulence theory. How much relevance such ideas have for incompressible flows is not clear.
Weltwirtschaftliche Spannungsfelder der 90er Jahre — Impulse für eine neue Zusammenarbeit

Keine Nation steht oder fallt alleine. Viel enger noch als zur Zeit der Weltwirtschaftskrise in den fruhen dreissiger Jahren sind heute die Nationen durch die Weltwirtschaft miteinander verknupft. Migration, Handel, Investitionen, Entwicklungshilfegelder und Technologietransfer sind einander uberlagernde Strome in der Weltwirtschaft. Fur die wichtigsten Akteure der Weltwirtschaft sind Prosperitat und Depression in zunehmendem Masse zu Nichtnullsummenspielen geworden. Es ist deshalb wichtig, die wesentlichsten Tendenzen in der Weltwirtschaft zu skizzieren: Ohne ein Gespur fur deren kunftige Bedeutung und Ausrichtung kann heute keine vernunftige Prognose der nationalen oder unternehmerischen Moglichkeiten und Risiken fur die achtziger oder neunziger Jahre gemacht werden.
Use of Erythrocytes Sensitized with Purified Enterotoxin from Vibrio cholerae for the Assay of Antibody and Antibody-Forming Cells

A method was developed for the sensitization of ovine erythrocytes with a purified enterotoxin from Vibrio cholerae. Sensitized cells were used for the titration of serum antibody by passive hemagglutination and in a hemolytic plaque assay for both IgM and IgG antibody-secreting cells. Inhibition experiments with various antigens of V. cholerae indicated that the toxin, whether unheated or heat-inactivated, significantly reduced the expected antitoxic plaque-forming cell response, whereas a lipopolysaccharide-rich extract from homologous vibiros was not inhibitory.
Enhancing Classroom Effectiveness through Social Networking Tools.

To determine the usefulness of social networking Web sites such as Ning.com as a communication tool in marketing courses, a study was designed with special concern for social network use in comparison to Blackboard. Students from multiple marketing courses were surveyed. Assessments of Ning.com and Blackboard were performed both to understand how they were perceived individually as useful tools and how they compare to each other. Results indicated that students who used Ning.com were more effective as a group than those who used Blackboard. In addition, students found the practical features of Ning.com to be the more important reason to recommend it for future class use. Entertainment features of Ning.com, though valued, were not as influential.
Should all college-bound freshmen receive meningococcal vaccine?

Although freshmen living in dormitories have a higher risk, the CDC advises education rather than routine vaccination.
The Cancer Survival Toolbox: A Breakthrough in Self-Advocacy:

“The Cancer Survival Toolbox™ … Building Skills that Work for You” is the first program to help newly diagnosed cancer survivors learn the skills they need to navigate the cancer care process. Deve...
Monitoring of somatosensory evoked potentials during surgical procedures on the thoracoabdominal aorta: IV. Clinical observations and results

Thirty-three patients undergoing operations on the descending thoracic or thoracoabdominal aorta were monitored to evaluate causes and effects of spinal cord ischemia as manifested by changes in somatosensory evoked potentials. Maintenance of distal aortic perfusion pressure (>60 mm Hg) by either shunt or bypass techniques in 17 patients resulted in preservation of somatosensory evoked potentials and a normal postoperative neurologic status, irrespective of the interval of thoracic aortic cross-clamping (range 23 to 105 minutes). In 16 other patients in whom cross-clamp time ranged from 16 to 124 minutes, evoked potential loss was observed because of (1) failure to provide distal perfusion (n = 8), (2) inadequate maintenance of distal perfusion pressure (
The Global Rise of Zero Liquid Discharge for Wastewater Management: Drivers, Technologies, and Future Directions

Zero liquid discharge (ZLD)—a wastewater management strategy that eliminates liquid waste and maximizes water usage efficiency — has attracted renewed interest worldwide in recent years. Although implementation of ZLD reduces water pollution and augments water supply, the technology is constrained by high cost and intensive energy consumption. In this critical review, we discuss the drivers, incentives, technologies, and environmental impacts of ZLD. Within this framework, the global applications of ZLD in the United States and emerging economies such as China and India are examined. We highlight the evolution of ZLD from thermal- to membrane-based processes, and analyze the advantages and limitations of existing and emerging ZLD technologies. The potential environmental impacts of ZLD, notably greenhouse gas emission and generation of solid waste, are discussed and the prospects of ZLD technologies and research needs are highlighted.
Interferon lambda 4 expression is suppressed by the host during viral infection

Interferon (IFN) lambdas are critical antiviral effectors in hepatic and mucosal infections. Although IFNλ1, IFNλ2, and IFNλ3 act antiviral, genetic association studies have shown that expression of the recently discovered IFNL4 is detrimental to hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection through a yet unknown mechanism. Intriguingly, human IFNL4 harbors a genetic variant that introduces a premature stop codon. We performed a molecular and biochemical characterization of IFNλ4 to determine its role and regulation of expression. We found that IFNλ4 exhibits similar antiviral activity to IFNλ3 without negatively affecting antiviral IFN activity or cell survival. We show that humans deploy several mechanisms to limit expression of functional IFNλ4 through noncoding splice variants and nonfunctional protein isoforms. Furthermore, protein-coding IFNL4 mRNA are not loaded onto polyribosomes and lack a strong polyadenylation signal, resulting in poor translation efficiency. This study provides mechanistic evidence that humans suppress IFNλ4 expression, suggesting that immune function is dependent on other IFNL family members.
277. Characterization of the Macrophage Response in Hematopoietic Stem Cell-Mediated Tissue Repair in Cystinosis

Cystinosis is a lysosomal storage disorder resulting from genetic mutations in the ubiquitously expressed CTNS gene, which encodes the lysosomal transmembrane transporter called cystinosin. In the absence of functional cystinosin, cystine accumulates in all tissues of the body, eventually depositing as crystals. Thus, cystinosis is a multisystemic degenerative disorder, with end-stage kidney failure as the cardinal manifestation.Our previous work has shown that transplantation of syngeneic wild-type hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) in the mouse model of cystinosis, Ctns-/- mice, was effective in treating cystinosis and led to long-term tissue preservation. Our study clearly established that transplanted HSCs integrated abundantly into all tissues and differentiated into tissue-resident macrophages, such as Kupffer cells in the liver, microglia in the brain, and dendritic cells in the kidney. Addressing the cellular mechanism, we showed that HSC-derived macrophages corrected the genetic defect by delivering functional cystinosin to adjacent host Ctns-/- cells via long intercellular bridges called tunneling nanotubes (TNTs). In the kidney, TNTs were shown to transfer cystinosin-containing lysosomes from transplanted interstitial macrophages into diseased proximal tubular cells directly across the dense, continuous, and formidable barrier of the tubular basement membrane. This is the first demonstration of correction of a genetic lysosomal defect by vesicular exchange via TNTs and suggests broader potential for HSC transplantation for other disorders due to defective vesicular proteins.Overall, correlation between differentiation of HSCs into macrophages and improved biochemical, functional, and anatomical outcomes post-transplantation suggest that macrophages are key mediators of tissue repair. To test this hypothesis and to characterize the molecular protagonists involved, Ctns-/- mice have been transplanted with HSCs isolated from mouse strains that are deficient in macrophage differentiation. This work will open new perspectives in regenerative medicine that could spur the development of novel stem cell-based therapy.
Deep Vein Thrombosis in the Elderly

Aging is one of the strongest and most prevalent risk factors for venous thromboembolic (VTE) disease. There is an 80-fold increased risk for individuals >85 years compared to those 25–35 years old. Sixty percent of all VTE events occur in patients ≥70 years old.
Agreement analysis comparing iPad LCVA and Sloan testing in multiple sclerosis patients

Background:Visual symptoms are common in multiple sclerosis (MS). Low-contrast visual acuity (LCVA) testing using Sloan charts has demonstrated increased sensitivity for visual deficits compared to high-contrast acuity testing. Computerized testing of visual acuity may facilitate use in the clinic setting.Objectives:To evaluate the agreement between an iPad-based and Sloan testing of LCVA in a cohort of MS patients.Methods:A total of 38 patients with relapsing-remitting MS were enrolled after providing informed written consent at Partners MS Center, Brigham and Women’s hospital. Monocular LCVA was measured using retroilluminated Sloan chart and iPad-based LogMAR chart. Number of correct letters and agreement between two measurements were assessed for each eye using Bland–Altman analysis and paired t-test.Results:For both eyes, there was no significant difference in number correct between the two measurements using a paired t-test, and there was high correlation between two measurements (oculus dextrus (OD...
The Effect of Menstrual Cycle and Contraceptives on ACL Injuries and Laxity: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Background:Women are at substantially greater risk for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries than are men.Purpose:To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature to clarify t...
Suicidal behavior and aggression-related disorders

Studies of suicidal behavior among those with aggression-related disorders (i.e. intermittent explosive disorder, borderline personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, and conduct disorder) were examined. The presence of an aggressive disorder generally increased the risk of suicide attempts and mortality, with this effect (when examined) usually existing independent of other psychopathology. However, this may not be the case for antisocial personality disorder. Furthermore, with the exception of intermittent explosive disorder, the extant research suggests severity of aggression was associated with suicide attempt risk in aggression-related disorders. Future research is needed to better understand what mechanisms may influence the suicide-aggression relationship.
Pediatric inhalation injury

Smoke inhalation injury can cause severe physiologic perturbations. In pediatric patients, these perturbations cause profound changes in cardiac and pulmonary physiology. In this review, we examine the pathology, early management options, ventilator strategy, and long-term outcomes in pediatric patients who have suffered a smoke inhalation injury.
Biological oceanography: The CO 2 switch in diatoms

Diatoms are important primary producers in the ocean, however their response to rising CO2 is uncertain. Now research shows how diatoms regulate their metabolism in response to changing CO2.
Combined Strategy of Machine Vision with a Robotic Assistant for Nail Biting Prevention

Nail biting or onychophagia is a body-focused repetitive behavior that is especially prevalent in the younger population of children and adolescents. The behavior produces negative physical and psychological effects on individuals who exhibit onychophagia. Therapy for nail biting involves awareness from the subject which requires constant effort from third parties. This research project utilized a commercial robotic toy in combination with a machine vision system based on image processing to deliver a new strategy to prevent nail biting. The machine vision system recognized nail biting using a webcam in the computer which communicated to the toy robot to alert the subject. The implementation is validated with a user case study obtaining reduction in episode occurrences and duration.
Prenatal androgen exposure causes hypertension and gut microbiota dysbiosis

Background: Conditions of excess androgen in women, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), often exhibit intergenerational transmission. One way in which the risk for PCOS may be increased in da...
The Book of Numbers. By John Horton Conway and Richard K. Guy

(1997). The Book of Numbers. By John Horton Conway and Richard K. Guy. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 104, No. 9, pp. 884-888.
Toward a Psychological Contract Framework of Director Effectiveness: The Role of CEO Expectations

Understanding director effectiveness remains a complex and nuanced undertaking for strategic leadership and governance scholars. Recent scholarship alludes to possible negative consequences of defi...
Understanding Water Utility Attitudes toward Water Transfers and Risk: Pretest Results

AbstractWater transfers between utilities can be a cost-effective substitute for supply infrastructure expansions when seeking to reduce vulnerability to drought. Water utility employees may choose...
Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome

Death following severe injury or infection assumed a different clinical presentation beginning with the evolution of the intensive care unit (ICU) in acute care hospitals. An improved understanding of hypovolemic shock and techniques of resuscitation during the 1960s led to survival of patients with severe injuries beyond the initial 24 to 48 h. The evolution of ventilator support in combination with other organ support measures in the ICU permitted longer survival of the critically ill patient and the emergence of a new clinical syndrome—multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS).1
Work, Immigration, Gender: New Subjects of Cultural Politics

Hello, my name is Fu Lee. I am 41 years old, married, and I have a 9-year old daughter. I have been living in Oakland Chinatown since I left Hong Kong 12 years ago.... My eyes hurt from straining under poor lighting; my throat hurt because of the chemical fumes from the fabric dye. Sometimes, I would wear surgical masks so I don't have to breathe in all the dust from the fabric. My back never stopped hurting from bending over the sewing machine all day. Our boss was like a dictator. He was always pushing us to work faster. There was a sign in the shop that said, "No loud talking. You cannot go to the bathroom." When we did talk loudly or laugh during work, he would throw empty boxes at us and tell us to go back to work. When there was a rush order, we had to eat lunch at our workstation.
The Importance of Motor Control in the Practice of Rehabilitation

Motor control studies are of special interest to clinicians interested in the practice of rehabilitation medicine and restorative medical sciences. All definitions of medical rehabilitation and treatment of disabilities deal with the concept of maximizing the ability of a patient and his or her family to function to the best possible capability within our societal structure.
Prediction and Internal Statistical Cross Validation

Cross-validation is a statistical approach for validating predictive methods, classification models, and clustering techniques. It assesses the reliability and stability of the results of the corresponding statistical analyses (e.g., predictions, classifications, forecasts) based on independent datasets. For prediction of trend, association, clustering, and classification, a model is usually trained on one dataset (training data) and subsequently tested on new data (testing or validation data). Statistical internal cross-validation uses iterative bootstrapping to define test datasets, evaluates the model predictive performance, and assesses its power to avoid overfitting. Overfitting is the process of computing a predictive or classification model that describes random error, i.e., fits to the noise components of the observations, instead of the actual underlying relationships and salient features in the data.
Embryo movements regulate tendon mechanical property development.

Tendons transmit forces from muscles to bones to enable skeletal motility. During development, tendons begin to bear load at the onset of embryo movements. Using the chick embryo model, this study ...
Nietzsche and Heidegger: PoPoMo philosophers avant la lettre

If postmodernism is dead, what calls forth a post-postmodern (PoPoMo) educational philosophy? Alison Gibbons (2017) sees the PoPoMo world as a ‘volatile place’ jeopardizing humanity’s future.Far in...
Markov Chain Decomposition Based On Total Expectation Theorem

A divide-and-conquer approach to analyzing Markov chains (MCs) is not utilized as widely as it could be, despite its potential benefits. One primary reason for this is the fact that most MC decomposition approaches involve a complex and inflexible methodology: decomposed subchains must be disjoint, transition rates of these decomposed subchains must be altered in a way tailored to the particular MC model, and the procedure to aggregate suchains needs to incorporate a nonlinear normalization constraint, complicating the analytical expression of performance measures. In contrast, we propose a versatile yet simple decomposition method for continuous time MCs based on the total expectation theorem. Leveraging the properties of this theorem, our method has great flexibility in the choice of subchains, and the procedure to obtain expected values of interest is simply a linear summation of subchains' properties, which is not affected by the normalization constraint. We prove that to maintain the correct distribution of decomposed subchains one may use our novel termination scheme, a modification of transition rates, that ensures partial flow conservation at boundary states. This termination scheme is applicable to MCs with any structure, since the scheme depends only on the boundary-state distribution, not on the structure of the MCs. To demonstrate the generality and capability of our method, we analytically solve various models, such as a congestion-based staffing queue and a Markov-modulated Mt/Mt/1 queue. As not all systems admit an analytical solution, we complement this analysis with numerical studies of MCs with various sizes using the algorithm based on our method.
When the balance is broken: X-linked gene dosage from two X chromosomes and female-biased autoimmunity

Women and men exhibit differences in innate and adaptive immunity, and women are more susceptible to numerous autoimmune disorders. Two or more X chromosomes increases the risk for some autoimmune diseases, and increased expression of some X-linked immune genes is frequently observed in female lymphocytes from autoimmune patients. Evidence from mouse models of autoimmunity also supports the idea that increased expression of X-linked genes is a feature of female-biased autoimmunity. Recent studies have begun to elucidate the correlation between abnormal X-chromosome inactivation (XCI), an essential mechanism female somatic cells use to equalize X-linked gene dosage between the sexes, and autoimmunity in lymphocytes. In this review, we highlight research describing overexpression of X-linked immunity-related genes and female-biased autoimmunity in both humans and mouse models, and make connections with our recent work elucidating lymphocyte-specific mechanisms of XCI maintenance that become altered in lupus patients.
Neurodevelopmental disorders of the prefrontal cortex in an evolutionary context

The prefrontal cortex consists of several cytoarchitectonically defined areas that are involved in higher-order cognitive and emotional processing. The areas are highly variable in terms of organization of cortical layers and distribution of specific neuronal classes, and are affected in neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. Here the focus is on microstructural anatomical characteristics of human prefrontal cortex in an evolutionary context with special emphasis on Williams syndrome. We include a pilot analysis of distribution of neurons labeled with an antibody to non-phosphorylated neurofilament protein (SMI-32) in the frontal pole of Williams syndrome to further examine microstructural characteristics of the prefrontal cortex in Williams syndrome and implications of the distribution of SMI-32 immunoreactive neurons for connectivity between the frontal pole and other cortical areas in the disorder.
Integrating Worksite Smoking Cessation Services Into the Construction Sector: Opportunities and Challenges.

Background. Smoking prevalence among Hispanic/Latino construction workers in the United States is very high (31%). Aims. To investigate tobacco use profiles in these minority workers and explore th...
A New Classifier Network for Ultrasonic NDE Applications based on Ensemble Deep Learning

This work presents a classifier architecture for Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE) applications which can robustly detect the presence and location of flaws using an ensemble of deep learning networks. The ensemble draws upon the effective sequential time analysis of Long Short-Term Memory - Neural Networks (LSTM–NN), the function estimation and prediction properties of Wavelet Neural Networks (WNN), and the feature extraction capabilities of Convolution Neural Networks (CNN). Simulation results confirm that the proposed architecture offers highly reliable flaw detection and localization with significant Flaw to Clutter Ratio (FCR) enhancements.
Zero-Shot Reinforcement Learning with Deep Attention Convolutional Neural Networks.

Simulation-to-simulation and simulation-to-real world transfer of neural network models have been a difficult problem. To close the reality gap, prior methods to simulation-to-real world transfer focused on domain adaptation, decoupling perception and dynamics and solving each problem separately, and randomization of agent parameters and environment conditions to expose the learning agent to a variety of conditions. While these methods provide acceptable performance, the computational complexity required to capture a large variation of parameters for comprehensive scenarios on a given task such as autonomous driving or robotic manipulation is high. Our key contribution is to theoretically prove and empirically demonstrate that a deep attention convolutional neural network (DACNN) with specific visual sensor configuration performs as well as training on a dataset with high domain and parameter variation at lower computational complexity. Specifically, the attention network weights are learned through policy optimization to focus on local dependencies that lead to optimal actions, and does not require tuning in real-world for generalization. Our new architecture adapts perception with respect to the control objective, resulting in zero-shot learning without pre-training a perception network. To measure the impact of our new deep network architecture on domain adaptation, we consider autonomous driving as a use case. We perform an extensive set of experiments in simulation-to-simulation and simulation-to-real scenarios to compare our approach to several baselines including the current state-of-art models.
Impact of NT-proBNP on Clinical Outcomes in Children with Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome

Objective: To evaluate the impact of elevated N-terminal pro-brain type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels on clinical outcomes in children that met criteria for systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). Background: NT-proBNP has traditionally been used in adults and children to diagnose and guide the treatment of congestive heart failure. Elevated NT-proBNP levels have been associated with increased morbidity and mortality in adults with septic shock. The association …
Association of Electronic Health Record Use Above Meaningful Use Thresholds With Hospital Quality and Safety Outcomes.

Importance By 2018, Medicare spent more than $30 billion to incentivize the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), based partially on the belief that EHRs would improve health care quality and safety. In a time when most hospitals are well past minimum meaningful use (MU) requirements, examining whether EHR implementation beyond the minimum threshold is associated with increased quality and safety may guide the future focus of EHR development and incentive structures. Objective To determine whether EHR implementation above MU performance thresholds is associated with changes in hospital patient satisfaction, efficiency, and safety. Design, Setting, and Participants This quantile regression analysis of cross-sectional data used publicly available data sets from 2362 acute care hospitals in the United States participating in both the MU and Hospital Value-Based Purchasing (HVBP) programs from January 1 to December 31, 2016. Data were analyzed from August 1, 2019, to May 22, 2020. Exposures Seven MU program performance measures, including medication and laboratory orders placed through the EHR, online health information availability and access rates, medication reconciliation through the EHR, patient-specific educational resources, and electronic health information exchange. Main Outcomes and Measures The HVBP outcomes included patient satisfaction survey dimensions, Medicare spending per beneficiary, and 5 types of hospital-acquired infections. Results Among the 2362 participating hospitals, mixed associations were found between MU measures and HVBP outcomes, all varying by outcome quantile and in some cases by interaction with EHR vendor. Computerized provider order entry (CPOE) for laboratory orders was associated with decreased ratings of every patient satisfaction outcome at middle quantiles (communication with nurses: β = −0.33 [P = .04]; communication with physicians: β = −0.50 [P Conclusions and Relevance Increasing EHR implementation, as measured by MU criteria, was not straightforwardly associated with increased HVBP measures of patient satisfaction, spending, and safety in this study. These results call for a critical evaluation of the criteria by which EHR implementation is measured and increased attention to how different EHR products may lead to differential outcomes.
Implementation of the Internet of Things Application Based on Spring Boot Microservices and REST Architecture

Internet of Things is a field of Computer Science that is gaining extensive popularity. In this paper, we incorporate the concepts of full stack development using Spring Boot, Angular.js and Java technologies in implementation of Internet of Things applications. We signify the advantages and applicability of these technologies in the implementation. We particularly emphasize the design of REST Architecture based microservices development using Spring Boot for the IoT applications. All elements, required for the development of an end-to-end IoT system, are discussed in detail. The paper considers a use case of inventory management in industrial IoT and provides an innovate architecture solution. We present a prototype using the developed architecture and discuss the advantages offered by our architecture.
Supporting Muslim refugee youth during displacement: Implications for international school psychologists:

School psychologists around the world have an important role in advocating for refugee youth, including Muslim refugees who experience increased risk for mental health issues due to discrimination....
Anesthetic Management of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

Left untreated or medically managed, symptomatic severe aortic valvular disease is associated with high mortality. Whereas surgical management has tremendously reduced the mortality from aortic valve disease, it carries its own risk particularly in patients who are poor surgical candidates due to multiple comorbidities. To reduce this risk, transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has evolved as a noninvasive alternative for treating patients with severe aortic valvular disease. With the advancement of technology and experience, the use of TAVR has expanded to encompass patients with moderate and low surgical risk, pending long-term outcome studies. This chapter discusses the conduct, complications, and care after TAVR.
Rates and Types of Infections in Left Ventricular Assist Device Recipients: A Scoping Review

Abstract Objective Infections are among the most common complications in recipients of durable left ventricular assist devices (LVAD). However, existing studies examining infections in LVAD recipients are limited is size and design. Comprehensive, systematic reviews of all types of infections occurring among recipients of contemporary LVADs have not been conducted. The goal of this scoping review was to synthesize all available evidence related to rates of infections (including location and types) in LVAD recipients. Methods In February 2019, 4,581 published studies were identified through searching five bibliographic databases: PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, CINAHL and Web of Science Core Collection. Inclusion criteria required reporting of infectious complications among LVAD recipients receiving contemporary (HeartMate II, HeartMate 3 and HeartWare HVAD) LVADs. Study key characteristics were extracted by 2 independent reviewers and current literature described narratively. All analyses took place between Feb 2019 and Jan 2021. Results A total of 132 studies met inclusion criteria. Most studies were observational (n=118; 89.4%), single-center (n=93, 70.4%) and from the U.S. (n=88; 66.7%). Only 48 (36.3%) studies used the standardized International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) definition for reporting infections. Only 35 (26.5%) studies reported age, gender and racial distribution of their study population. Driveline infections were the most commonly reported infection type. Conclusions Most studies did not utilize standardized infection definitions or provide complete information on infection locations and types. In order to further advance the scientific rigor, published studies should (i) use standardized definitions for reporting infections and (ii) stratify rates by infection location and type.
Effects of Varying Levels of Data Use to Intensify a Multisyllabic Word Reading Intervention for Upper Elementary Students With or At Risk for Reading Disabilities.

For students who show inadequate response to research-based intervention, intensification of intervention using data-based decision making (DBDM) is recommended. There is a paucity of research on u...
Changes in Penile-Vaginal Intercourse Frequency and Sexual Repertoire from 2009 to 2018: Findings from the National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior

Solo and partnered sexual behaviors are relevant to health, well-being, and relationships. Recent research shows that sexual frequency has declined in the U.S. and in other countries; however, measurement has been imprecise. We used data from 14- to 49-year-old participants in the 2009 and 2018 waves of the National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior (NSSHB), a confidential U.S. nationally representative survey that is conducted online. We aimed to: (1) assess changes in frequency of past-year penile-vaginal intercourse and (2) examine combinations of past-year sexual behaviors for each of the two waves. We hypothesized that we would observe lower frequency of penile-vaginal intercourse (PVI) from 2009 to 2018 and that we would observe greater engagement in sexual repertoires involving non-coital partnered behaviors (e.g., partnered masturbation, oral sex) in 2018 as compared to 2009. Participants were 4155 individuals from the 2009 NSSHB (Adolescents: 406 females, 414 males; Adults: 1591 women, 1744 men) and 4547 individuals from the 2018 NSSHB (Adolescents: 416 females, 411 males; Adults: 2007 women, 1713 men). Compared to adult participants in the 2009 NSSHB, adults in the 2018 NSSHB were significantly more likely to report no PVI in the prior year (28% in 2018 vs. 24% in 2009). A similar difference in proportions reporting no PVI in the prior year was observed among 14–17-year-old adolescents (89% in 2018 vs. 79% in 2009). Additionally, for both adolescents and adults, we observed decreases in all modes of partnered sex queried and, for adolescents, decreases in solo masturbation.