cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Reduction of artifacts in computer simulation of breast Cooper's ligaments

Anthropomorphic software breast phantoms have been introduced as a tool for quantitative validation of breast imaging systems. Efficacy of the validation results depends on the realism of phantom images. The recursive partitioning algorithm based upon the octree simulation has been demonstrated as versatile and capable of efficiently generating large number of phantoms to support virtual clinical trials of breast imaging. Previously, we have observed specific artifacts, (here labeled “dents”) on the boundaries of simulated Cooper’s ligaments. In this work, we have demonstrated that these “dents” result from the approximate determination of the closest simulated ligament to an examined subvolume (i.e., octree node) of the phantom. We propose a modification of the algorithm that determines the closest ligament by considering a pre-specified number of neighboring ligaments selected based upon the functions that govern the shape of ligaments simulated in the subvolume. We have qualitatively and quantitatively demonstrated that the modified algorithm can lead to elimination or reduction of dent artifacts in software phantoms. In a proof-of concept example, we simulated a 450 ml phantom with 333 compartments at 100 micrometer resolution. After the proposed modification, we corrected 148,105 dents, with an average size of 5.27 voxels (5.27nl). We have also qualitatively analyzed the corresponding improvement in the appearance of simulated mammographic images. The proposed algorithm leads to reduction of linear and star-like artifacts in simulated phantom projections, which can be attributed to dents. Analysis of a larger number of phantoms is ongoing.
Potential Enhancement of the Gypsy Moth (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae) Nuclear Polyhedrosis Virus with the Triterpene Azadirachtin

Second-instar gypsymoth, Lymantria dispar (L.), larvae were placed on semisynthetic diet and white oak, Quercus alba L., seedlings that had been surface-treated with azadirachtin and gypsy moth nuclear polyhedrosis virus. Both treatments affected larval development (weight gain and molting) and survival. When consumed together, larvae died significantly faster compared with larvae, which consumed only azarurachtin or virus. The combination also resulted in lowered larval survival compared with that observed when only 1 material was consumed. The combination of azadirachtin and virus should result in good foliage protection if used against gypsy moth larvae. However, the addition of azadirachtin to viral formulations could also result in less virus being produced within the larval cadaver and released into the environment because the affected larvae are smaller.
Management of Sand Shinnery Oak for Control of the Boll Weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in the Texas Rolling Plains

Sand shinnery oak, Quercus havardii Rydb., occurs on ca. 230.2 thousand ha in the Texas rolling plains. Litter deposited by this range shrub provides one of the best overwintering habitats for the boll weevil, Anthonomus grandis grandis Boheman, in the region. Several sand shinnery oak management strategies were compared to evaluate methods for elimination of the shrub and associated litter. Overwinter survival rates for boll weevils caged in the litter were used as a biological indicator of treatment success. Tebuthiuron herbicide, applied at 1.1 kg (AI)/ha, provided a 98% reduction in shinnery oak cover and litter, but 3 years elapsed from treatment application to a significant reduction in boll weevil overwinter survival rates. The addition of fire and shredding to the tebuthiuron treatment did not hasten the rate of habitat disappearance, and boll weevil winter mortality rates were not increased in comparison to the tebuthiuron-only treatment. The herbicide glyphosate did not provide adequate control of the shinnery oak, and litter was not reduced enough to affect boll weevil survival. Fire alone was the least effective approach for shinnery oak management. The litter layer began to reaccumulate 8 months after the fire. Three years after the fire, boll weevil survival was significantly ( P < 0.05) higher and emergence continued longer into the summer compared to survival and emergence in the untreated plots. There was a significant ( P < 0.05) increase in percentage of frequency of grasses and forbs in the tebuthiuron-only treatment compared to the untreated check. Tebuthiuron seems to be the best currently available option for reduction of sand shinnery oak and the associated litter layer.
Diagnosis Report in Communities of Jiangyin City

Objective To find out the prevalence and causes for chronic non-communicable disease in communities of Jiangyin City and determine the objective intervention population and provide basis for prevention intervention measures on chronic disease.Methods The adults 4500 persons aged over 35 years were investigated about health condition and behavioral perilous factors with stratified sampling.Results The rates of lacking exercise 81.8%, the rates of fatness 52.7%,the rates of smoking 26.3(male 60.1%),the rates of excessive drinking 22.7%, the rates of strong tastes 15.8%. The present prevalence rates of hypertension, hyperlipedimia, ceronary heart disease(CHD), stroke and diabetes were 35.4%, 2.6%, 2.4%, 1.4%, 1.3% respectively.Conclusion The residents in jiangyin City aged over 35 years suffered from all kinds of chronic disease were 46.6%. The main chronic disease kinds were hypertension, mind-brain and blood vessel disease, diabetes, stomach-duodenum disease, chronic respiratory system disease, malignant tumour and so on. The total rates of the old aged over 60 years suffered from hypertension, CHD, stroke, diabetes or malignant tumour reached to 72.5%. The main behavioral perilous factors interrelated chronic disease are smoking, excessive drinking, fatness, overweight, lacking exercise, strong tastes and so on. It`s urgent to reduce the incidence of chronic disease in Jiangyin City. We must advocate healthy, scientific life style actively and strengthen intervention work for chronic disease conscientiously.
cAMP stimulates fluorescent bile acid uptake into hepatocytes by membrane hyperpolarization

Elevation of intracellular adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) hyperpolarizes hepatocytes and increases the uptake rate of bile acids. The purpose of this study was to determine to what extent these two phenomena are linked. Fluorescent bile acid analogues (FBA) were used to probe bile acid transport into whole cell patch-clamped hepatocytes. Na(+)-dependent uptake of cholyl-nitrobenz-2-oxa-1,3-diazol-4-yl-lysine (C-NBD-L), an FBA with a net charge of -1, was shown to be electrogenic, whereas uptake of cholylglycylamidofluorescein (CGamF), an FBA with a net charge of -2, was neutral. Incubation of hepatocytes with 8-bromo-cAMP (8-BrcAMP; 100 microM) increased the uptake rate of the electrogenically transported FBA by 25% (P = 0.002), but had no effect on the uptake rate of the electroneutrally transported FBA. Microelectrode impalements revealed that 8-BrcAMP or forskolin hyperpolarized hepatocytes by 6-8 mV. To determine if hyperpolarization is responsible for the cAMP-induced increase in uptake rate, cAMP was directly introduced into hepatocytes during whole cell patch clamp under voltage-clamp conditions. As long as voltage clamp was maintained at -30 mV there was no stimulation of C-NBD-L uptake. However, when voltage clamp was terminated by either pipette removal or current clamp, cAMP increased the uptake rate by 25-34% (P < 0.002). In both of these protocols, cAMP had no effect on uptake of the electroneutrally transported FBA, CGamF. Finally, in voltage-clamped hepatocytes in the absence of cAMP, a 10-mV hyperpolarization increased the uptake rate of C-NBD-L by 23%. We therefore conclude that short-term cAMP-induced stimulation of fluorescent bile acid uptake in hepatocytes is a direct consequence of membrane hyperpolarization.
Wound complications after median sternotomy: Relationship to internal mammary grafting

Case histories of 2582 patients requiring median sternotomy for coronary artery bypass grafting between January 1982 and August 1986 were retrospectively reviewed. Only saphenous vein grafts were used in 230 patients, one mammary artery graft was used in 1626 patients, and both mammary arteries were used in 726 patients. The relationship of potential risk factors and wound complication was evaluated. The overall incidence of wound complications was 0.81%—0.43% in the saphenous vein graft group, 0.49% in the single mammary group, and 1.65% in the bilateral mammary group. Graft type and a number of potential risk factors were analyzed in a logistic regression analysis to determine significant predictors of wound complications. The results indicated that pneumonia, obesity, reexploration, use of the intraaortic balloon pump, and diabetes were significant risk factors contributing to the probability of wound complications. Bilateral mammary grafting was significantly associated with the increased probability of a wound complication developing. Bilateral mammary grafting increased the chance of wound complication nearly five times that of saphenous vein grafting and three times that of single mammary grafting. Mammary artery grafts have been shown to achieve greater long-term patency than saphenous vein grafts, and their continued use is encouraged. However, the potential for increased wound problems should be considered along with other significant preoperative risk factors such as insulin-dependent diabetes, chronic pulmonary disease, and obesity.
Inhibition of rat mesangial cell growth by heparan sulfate

The ability of heparan sulfate, an endogenous component of the glomerulus, to regulate the growth of cultured rat mesangial cells was investigated. Heparan sulfate caused a dose-dependent inhibition of rat mesangial cell growth, 85% inhibition compared with controls at the highest dose (1,000 micrograms/ml). Chondroitin sulfate produced no inhibition. The low-sulfated fraction of heparan sulfate (9%) produced more inhibition than the high-sulfated fraction (13%), 90 +/- 1 vs. 71 +/- 2% (P = 0.002). The effects of the heparan sulfate were completely reversible. Treatment of heparan sulfate with heparitinase increased the degree of inhibition, 71 +/- 1 vs. 84 +/- 1% (P less than 0.001). Four different oligosaccharides derived from heparan sulfate and heparin were tested for their ability to inhibit growth. One of the oligosaccharides, low-sulfated (10%), caused significant inhibition, 76 +/- 2%. Heparan sulfate was also able to inhibit the growth of Swiss 3T3 fibroblasts (63 +/- 5%). This inhibition was less marked than that seen with mesangial cells. Thus heparan sulfate was able to significantly inhibit rat mesangial cell growth in culture. Alterations in glomerular heparan sulfate may play an important role in alterations in mesangial cell growth.
AI, Computers, Density

After the neocortex reached a certain size, after its interconnectivity reached a certain density, the rapid development of language-dedicated areas was achievable — in an organism of small enough somatic dimensions to free a large portion of neocortical tissue for linguistic activities. Through time those activities — and their cultural systems — were selected for and enriched. The catastrophic discontinuity in the evolution of intelligence made man possible.
Efficacy of Beauveria bassiana formulations against the fungus gnat Lycoriella ingenua

Abstract Lycoriella ingenua Dufour (Diptera: Sciaridae) is a major pest species in commercial mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) production throughout the world. Grower demand for alternative control measures, following the recent withdrawal of a number of chemical control options, led to a label extension for use of the fungal biopesticide BotaniGard® ES, for control of mushroom flies. Semi-field trials were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of BotaniGard® ES, and two alternative formulations of Beauveria bassiana strain GHA (the active ingredient in BotaniGard® ES), for control of L. ingenua, and their effect on crop yield when incorporated at spawning. Data collected from two replicated trials demonstrated that incorporation of B. bassiana was not detrimental to mushroom yield, but was also ineffective in controlling the development of L. ingenua larvae in artificially infested compost. Subsequent laboratory bioassays demonstrated that L. ingenua eggs and larvae were not susceptible to infection by B. bassiana strain GHA whereas pupae were somewhat susceptible (41% mortality). Bioassays conducted on adult L. ingenua using 1 h exposure to a surface sprayed with BotaniGard® ES resulted in 100% mortality within 8 days and a mean survival time of 6 days, which was significantly different from the control population.
Long-term fertilizer and crop-rotation treatments differentially affect soil bacterial community structure

Soil microbial communities influence nutrient cycling, chemistry and structure of soil, and plant productivity. In turn, agronomic practices such as fertilization and crop rotation alter soil physical and chemical properties and consequently soil microbiomes. Understanding the long-term effects of agronomic practices on soil microbiomes is essential for improving agronomic practices to optimize these microbial communities for agricultural sustainability. We examine the composition and substrate-utilization profiles of microbial communities at the Morrow Plots in Illinois. Microbial community composition is assessed with 16S rRNA gene sequencing and subsequent bioinformatic analyses. Community- level substrate utilization is characterized with the BIOLOG EcoPlate. Fertilizer and rotation treatments significantly affected microbial community structure, while substrate utilization was affected by fertilizer, but not crop-rotation treatments. Differences in relative abundance and occurrence of bacterial taxa found in fertilizer treatments can explain the observed differences in community level substrate utilization. Long-term fertilization and crop-rotation treatments affect soil microbial community composition and physiology, specifically through chronic nutrient limitation, long-term influx of microbes and organic matter via manure application, as well as through changes in soil chemistry. Relatively greater abundance of Koribacteraceae and Solibacterales taxa in soils might prove useful as indicators of soil degradation.
Do Studies Evaluating QT/QTc Interval Prolongation with Dietary Supplements Meet FDA Standards: A Systematic Review.

ABSTRACTPurpose: Dietary supplement use is continuously increasing, but the safety evaluation of these products remains partial. While dietary supplements have no mandate for assessing cardiovascular safety, all new drug entities (NDE) are required to undergo a thorough QT/corrected QT (QTc) assessment to determine their propensity to impact cardiac repolarization. Independent investigators and manufacturers of dietary supplements voluntarily initiate safety studies; however, the quality of these studies is controversial. We sought to compare studies evaluating the QT/QTc effects of dietary supplements based on the International Conference of Harmonization (ICH)-E14 recommendations for NDE. Case summary: Twenty-six published dietary supplement studies assessed QT/QTc interval prolongation. Sample sizes ranged from nine subjects to 206 among the 15 crossover studies, six parallel design studies, and five observational studies. A plan to account for electrocardiogram (ECG) morphological abnormalities was in...
Combinators as control mechanisms in multiprocessor systems

An approach for automatically decomposing functional programs for execution on a loosely coupled multiprocessor system is presented. We start with a language definition given denotationally in terms of the lambda calculus. This definition is then mapped into combinator expressions. Since the parallelism is inherent to the semantics of the language, it is reflected in the definitions of the combinators as well. We capture this parallelism by mapping the combinators onto an underlying implementation consisting of multiple processors. The combinators not only dictate the underlying architecture needed for support, but also direct the allocation of code for parallel evaluation of the combinator expressions.
Therapeutic Efficacy of Fresh, Allogeneic Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Severe Refractory Feline Chronic Gingivostomatitis.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have potent immunomodulatory functions and are a promising therapy for immune-mediated inflammatory disorders. We previously demonstrated the efficacy of fresh, autologous, adipose-derived MSCs (ASCs) to treat feline chronic gingivostomatitis (FCGS), a chronic oral mucosal inflammatory disease similar to human oral lichen planus. Here, we investigate the use of fresh allogeneic ASCs for treatment of FCGS in seven cats. Radiolabeled ASCs were also tracked systemically. Each cat received two intravenous injections of 20 million ASCs, 1 month apart. Oral inflammation, blood lymphocyte subsets, anti-fetal bovine serum antibody levels, ASC crossmatching and serum proteins and cytokine concentrations were determined. Four of the 7 cats (57%) responded to treatment [complete clinical remission (n = 2) or substantial clinical improvement (n = 2)]. Three cats were nonresponders. Prior to therapy, most cats had increased circulating CD8+ T cells, decreased CD8lo cells, and a decreased CD4/CD8 ratio, however clinical resolution was not associated with normalization of these parameters. Nonresponders showed more severe systemic inflammation (neutrophilia, hyperglobulinemia and increased interferon gamma and tumor necrosis factor alpha concentration) prior to ASC therapy. Clinical remission took up to 20 months and no clinical relapse has occurred. A higher fraction of radiolabeled ASCs were identified in the oral cavity of FCGS affected cats than the control cat. The administration of fresh, allogenic ASCs appeared to have lower clinical efficacy with a delayed response as compared to the fresh, autologous ASCs. In addition, the mechanism(s) of action for autologous and allogenic ASCs may differ in this model of oral inflammation. Stem Cells Translational Medicine 2017;6:1710-1722.
Adverse childhood experiences (ACE) and adult attachment interview (AAI) in a non-clinical population

Adverse childhood experiences (ACE) tend to be interrelated rather than independently occurring. There is a graded effect associated with ACE exposure and pathology, with an increase when ACE exposure is four or more. This study examined a sample of active individuals (n=129) to determine distribution patterns and relationships between ACEs, attachment classification, unresolved mourning (U), and disclosure difficulty. The results of this study demonstrated a strong relationship between increased ACEs and greater unresolved mourning. Specifically, the group differences for individuals who experienced no ACE (n=42, 33%), those with 1-3 ACEs (n=48, 37.8%), and those with ≥4 ACEs (n=37, 29.1%) revealed a pattern in which increased group ACE exposure was associated with greater lack of resolution for past trauma/loss experiences, more adult traumatic events, and more difficulty disclosing past trauma. Despite ≥4 ACEs, 51.4% of highly exposed individuals were classified as secure in the Adult Attachment Interview. Resilience in this group may be related to a combination of attachment security, college education, and engagement in meaningful activities. Likewise, adversity may actually encourage the cultivation of more social support, goal efficacy, and planning behaviors; factors that augment resilience to adversity.
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome and Carpal Tunnel Surgery

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a morbid condition that can complicate carpal tunnel surgery. It is characterized by significant pain coupled with autonomic dysfunction that follows a regional pattern. Multiple pathophysiology mechanisms have been proposed to explain this unique disease, including nerve fiber loss and regeneration, nervous system sensitization, hypoxia, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction. Early diagnosis by adhering to the “Budapest criteria” is essential and dramatically changes the prognosis. A multidisciplinary approach encompassing pharmacological, procedural, and psychological interventions is of paramount importance. Postoperative pain and loss of function out of norm for a surgical procedure, especially if accompanied by autonomic dysfunction and hypersensitivity in the affected extremity, should trigger a referral to a pain specialist so timely therapy is instituted.
Joint Concept Learning and Semantic Parsing from Natural Language Explanations

Natural language constitutes a predominant medium for much of human learning and pedagogy. We consider the problem of concept learning from natural language explanations, and a small number of labeled examples of the concept. For example, in learning the concept of a phishing email, one might say ‘this is a phishing email because it asks for your bank account number’. Solving this problem involves both learning to interpret open ended natural language statements, and learning the concept itself. We present a joint model for (1) language interpretation (semantic parsing) and (2) concept learning (classification) that does not require labeling statements with logical forms. Instead, the model prefers discriminative interpretations of statements in context of observable features of the data as a weak signal for parsing. On a dataset of email-related concepts, our approach yields across-the-board improvements in classification performance, with a 30% relative improvement in F1 score over competitive methods in the low data regime.
Somatic Embryogenesis in Cacao (Theobroma cacao)

The seeds of the cacao tree, Theobroma cacao L. (Sterculiaceae), provide the basis of the multibillion dollar chocolate industry. A native of the Neotropics, cacao grows as an understory tree in the rainforest. Flowers and fruit are produced directly from the stem, with pods attaining lengths of approximately 15–25 cm, each containing 30–40 seeds (Pence 1989).
Intuitive Visualization of Reflectance Transformation Imaging for Interactive Analysis of Cultural Artifacts

Reflectance Transformation Imaging (RTI) can be used to capture surface details including color and reflectance properties, enabling subsequent interactive rendering and re-lighting of digitized artifacts, enhancing and revealing otherwise obscured information. This paper presents a contextualized RTI visualization technique, transforming data analysis from desktop-based visualization into hands-on, interactive, intuitive, and collaborative data exploration that can augment RTI data directly on the physical artifact. Networked, mobile devices are introduced as visual interfaces to the data and as physical controllers for the intuitive manipulation of virtual light sources, including their position and characteristics.
Poi history, uses, and role in health

Publisher Summary Poi is a Hawaiian word for the primary Polynesian staple food made from the corm of the kalo plant, also known as “taro.” In the traditional native Hawaiian diet, poi is made by first steaming taro, which is then mixed with a little water to form a smooth paste. Originating in Asia, taro is now primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions, where it was historically a major dietary staple on the islands of the Pacific, especially Hawaii, New Zealand, and west to Indonesia. Taro became especially important to the Hawaiians who associated it with their gods and the original ancestor of the Hawaiian people, and even used it for medicinal purposes. The nutrient composition of poi primarily includes carbohydrates, along with a few other nutrients. In addition, its probiotic functionality has led some to conclude that poi might be useful as a cancer treatment and to address depressed immune function. Studies suggest that poi may have great potential for treating certain medical conditions, especially infant food allergies and failure-to-thrive in infants. In addition, the easy digestibility and other characteristics of poi might make it a nutritional supplement for promoting weight gain in patients with conditions such as failure-to-thrive, cancer, AIDS, and inflammatory bowel disease. Its combination of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds suggests poi may have cancer-fighting properties, in particular against colorectal cancer. Finally, poi may offer a nutritional supplement unique in its possible probiotic activities and ability to reduce skin damage and conditions that affect complexion and appearance.
Time-Dependent Leakage Neutron Spectrum Studies of Some Small Hydrogenous Moderators

Measurements of the time and energy dependence of the spectrum of slow neutrons emerging from small pulsed moderators are reported. The results are presented with absolute normalization. Our techni...
Neural transfer learning for assigning diagnosis codes to EMRs.

Abstract Objective Electronic medical records (EMRs) are manually annotated by healthcare professionals and specialized medical coders with a standardized set of alphanumeric diagnosis and procedure codes, specifically from the International Classification of Diseases (ICD). Annotating EMRs with ICD codes is important for medical billing and downstream epidemiological studies. However, manually annotating EMRs is both time-consuming and error prone. In this paper, we explore the use of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for automatic ICD coding. Because many codes occur infrequently, CNN performance is inhibited. Therefore, we propose supplementing EMR data with PubMed indexed biomedical research abstracts through neural transfer learning. Materials and methods Transfer learning is the process of “transferring” knowledge acquired from one task (the source task) to a different (target) task. For the source task, we train a CNN to predict medical subject headings (MeSH) using 1.6 million PubMed indexed biomedical abstracts. For the target task, we train a CNN on 71,463 real-world EMRs collected from the University of Kentucky (UKY) medical center to predict ICD diagnosis codes. We introduce a simple, yet effective, transfer learning methodology which avoids forgetting knowledge gained from the source task. Results Compared to our prior work using EMRs from the UKY medical center, we improve both the micro and macro F-scores by more than 8%. Likewise, compared to other transfer learning methods, our approach results in nearly 2% improvement in macro F-score. Conclusion We show that transfer learning can improve CNN performance for EMR coding in the presence of data sparsity issues. Furthermore, we find that our proposed transfer learning approach outperforms other methods with respect to macro F-score. Finally, we analyze how transfer learning impacts codes with respect to code frequency. We find that we achieve greater improvement on infrequent codes compared to improvements in most frequent codes.
Multivariate, Multistep Forecasting, Reconstruction and Feature Selection of Ocean Waves via Recurrent and Sequence-to-Sequence Networks

This article explores the concepts of ocean wave multivariate multistep forecasting, reconstruction and feature selection. We introduce recurrent neural network frameworks, integrated with Bayesian hyperparameter optimization and Elastic Net methods. We consider both short- and long-term forecasts and reconstruction, for significant wave height and output power of the ocean waves. Sequence-to-sequence neural networks are being developed for the first time to reconstruct the missing characteristics of ocean waves based on information from nearby wave sensors. Our results indicate that the Adam and AMSGrad optimization algorithms are the most robust ones to optimize the sequence-to-sequence network. For the case of significant wave height reconstruction, we compare the proposed methods with alternatives on a well-studied dataset. We show the superiority of the proposed methods considering several error metrics. We design a new case study based on measurement stations along the east coast of the United States and investigate the feature selection concept. Comparisons substantiate the benefit of utilizing Elastic Net. Moreover, case study results indicate that when the number of features is considerable, having deeper structures improves the performance.
Predictive Feature Generation and Selection Using Process Data from PISA Simulation-Based Environment: An Application of Tree-Based Ensemble Methods

As one of the most innovative international large-scale assessments, the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) introduced the measurement of problem-solving skills in the 2012 cycle. The items in this new domain were typically designed as scenario-based environments and featured in interactions between students and computers. Process data collected in log files were especially valuable to provide deeper insight into students’ behaviors and allowed tracking their problem-solving strategies. This study illustrates a two-stage approach to generate features from process data and select those that predict student performance using a released problem-solving item “Climate Control” from PISA 2012. The specific research questions we focus on are: (1) how well the features generated from process data can predict test takers’ responses on a certain item, and (2) which features are the most predictive ones. We used a tree-based ensemble method called Random Forest to explore the association between response data as well as to extract features from process data. The eventual goal is to address issues around the complex structure of extracted features and the availability of massive numbers of variables representing different interactions in log-file entries.
Koi herpesvirus and carp oedema virus: Infections and coinfections during mortality events of wild common carp in the United States

Koi herpesvirus (KHV; cyprinid herpesvirus-3) and carp oedema virus (CEV) are important viruses of common and koi carp (Cyprinus carpio); however, the distribution of these viruses in wild common carp in North America is largely unknown. During the summers of 2017 and 2018, 27 mass mortalities of common carp were reported from four states in the USA (Minnesota, Iowa, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin), the majority of which were distributed across eight major watersheds in southern Minnesota. Samples from 22 of these mortality events and from five clinically healthy nearby carp populations were screened for KHV, CEV and SVCV using real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). KHV was confirmed in 13 mortality events, CEV in two mortality events and coinfections of KHV/CEV in four mortality events. Nucleotide sequence analysis revealed that the KHV and CEV detected here are closely related to European lineages of these viruses. While molecular detection alone cannot conclusively link either virus with disease, the cases described here expand the known range of two important viruses. This is also the first reported detection of KHV and CEV coinfections in wild carp populations.
ECG Diagnosis: Acute Myocardial Infarction in a Ventricular-Paced Rhythm.

In the Emergency Department, the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) relies initially on a patient’s history and the 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG). Establishing the diagnosis of AMI in the setting of a ventricular-paced rhythm (VPR) is difficult and can result in delay of definitive treatment. In 1996, Sgarbossa et al1 published a retrospective study comparing 17 ventricular-paced ECG controls with 17 ventricular-paced ECGs with AMI, confirmed by cardiac biomarkers. The authors found 3 ECG criteria to evaluate for AMI in patients with VPR: 1) ST-segment elevation (STE) greater than or equal to 1 mm for leads with a positive (concordant) QRS complex; 2) ST-segment depression (STD) greater than or equal to 1 mm in leads V1, V2, or V3; and 3) STE greater than or equal to 5 mm in leads with negative (discordant) QRS complexes. These criteria were identical to the criteria Sgarbossa developed to identify AMI in patients with left bundle branch block (LBBB), except the point scoring system was not used when the criteria were applied to patients with VPRs (Figure 1). Only 1 criterion had both relatively high specificity and statistical significance for the diagnosis of AMI at admission in patients with VPRs: STE greater than or equal to 5 mm in leads with a negative QRS complex. We report a case of an 81-year-old woman with a VPR who presented with chest pain, STE greater than or equal to 5 mm in leads with discordant QRS complexes, STE greater than or equal to 1 mm in a lead with concordant QRS complex, and was diagnosed with an AMI on cardiac catheterization. This case demonstrates the utility of Sgarbossa criteria for detecting AMI in patients with a VPR. Open in a separate window Figure 1 Sgarbossa criteria for acute myocardial infarction in the left bundle branch block. Arrows depict elevation or depression of the ST segment. Reprinted with permission from Cai Q, Mehta N, Sgarossa EB, et al. The left bundle-branch block puzzle in the 2013 ST-elevation myocardial infarction guideline: From falsely declaring emergency to denying reperfusion in a high-risk population. Are the Sgarbossa Criteria ready for prime time? Am Heart J 2013 Sep;166(3):409–13.
Workplace bullying among nurses and organizational response: An online cross-sectional study.

AIMS To examine prevalence of bullying among nurses and explore associations of organizational betrayal and support with well-being among nurses exposed to bullying. BACKGROUND Bullying is a problem in many nursing workplaces, and organizations have an obligation to support nurses who are bullied. Support or betrayal after bullying could affect nurse well-being, including burnout. METHODS In this cross-sectional study among U.S. nurses, data were collected in a survey using the Negative Acts Questionnaire-Revised for Nursing, the Institutional Betrayal Questionnaire for Health, the Well-Being Index, a job satisfaction scale and demographic questions. RESULTS Prevalence of weekly/daily bullying was 31% (N = 242). Among nurses exposed to any bullying (N = 173), organizational betrayal increased odds of burnout (OR 2.62, p = .02), job dissatisfaction (OR 2.97, p = .04) and absenteeism (OR 6.11, p < .001). Organizational support decreased odds of job dissatisfaction (OR 0.30, p = .001) and absenteeism (OR 0.50, p = .04). CONCLUSION Analysis of study findings suggests organizational betrayal increases likelihood of burnout, job dissatisfaction and absenteeism, and support decreases likelihood of dissatisfaction and absenteeism. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT Nurse leaders should be aware of the issue of organizational betrayal and support in relation to well-being. Future studies can further explore the concepts of betrayal and support to provide additional evidence.
What's the score? A comparison of deceased donor kidney scoring systems and correlation with graft outcome.

BACKGROUND A number of deceased donor kidney scoring systems have been developed to predict post-transplant graft failure. However, studies comparing the predictive ability of these scoring systems to each other are lacking. METHODS We used single-center histopathologic and UNOS data from 140 marginal deceased donor kidneys and transplant recipients to compare the predictive accuracy of the Maryland Aggregate Pathology Index (MAPI), Kidney Donor Risk Index (KDRI), Remuzzi, and Nyberg scoring systems for 2-year graft survival using time-dependent receiver operating curves and Kaplan-Meier analysis. RESULTS MAPI had the highest predictive accuracy (area under curve [AUC] = 0.81) compared to KDRI (AUC = 0.45), Remuzzi (AUC = 0.59), and Nyberg (AUC = 0.63) for 2-year graft survival. Furthermore, when analyzing each score according to its pre-defined risk strata, MAPI was the only scoring system for which 2-year graft survival was significantly different across strata (84.3% for low risk, 56.5% for intermediate risk, and 50% for high risk, P < .001). Additionally, MAPI was the only risk score significantly associated with 2-year graft survival (hazard ratio per point: 1.12, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01-1.23, P = .03). CONCLUSIONS In a single-center cohort of biopsied marginal kidneys used for transplantation, MAPI had the best predictive ability of these four scoring systems. When biopsy data are available for kidneys considered for transplantation, the MAPI score may provide additional information that could be used to better identify kidneys likely to have longer graft survival.
Impact analysis: electronic logging devices in the transportation industry

A disruptive digital transformation in the transportation industry recently arrived in the form of an electronic logging devices (ELDs), which serves to replace paper and pen logging of driving hours. The government mandate went into effect in December of 2017 with touted benefits primarily in the form of safety improvements. This research explores the first 12 months of this transformation by interviewing professionals affected by the mandate and by reviewing the still fresh and scarce literature. The results point to short and long-term challenges with which the fleet operators must grapple with before realising the value proposition promised by this digital transformation. The paper offers to practitioners structured summaries of the findings and recommendations for successful implementation of ELDs in order to become fully compliant with the law. Policymakers can gain insights from this study to understand weaknesses of the mandate in the current form. Altogether, this paper brings awareness of benefits and costs of the mandate to all affected stakeholders.
Unifying disparate rate-dependent rheological regimes in non-Brownian suspensions

A typical dense non-Brownian particulate suspension exhibits shear thinning (decreasing viscosity) at low shear rate or stress followed by a Newtonian plateau (constant viscosity) at intermediate shear rate or stress values which transitions to shear thickening (increasing viscosity) beyond a critical shear rate or stress value and finally undergoes a second shear thinning transition at extremely high shear rate or stress values. In this study, we unify and quantitatively reproduce all the disparate rate-dependent regimes and the corresponding transitions for a dense non-Brownian suspension with increasing shear rate or stress. We employ discrete particle dynamics simulations based on the proposed mechanism to elucidate its accuracy. We find that a competition between interparticle interactions of hydrodynamic and nonhydrodynamic origins and the switching in the dominant stress scale with increasing the shear rate or stress lead to each of the above transitions. Inclusion of traditional hydrodynamic interactions, attractive or repulsive Derjaguin-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek (DLVO) interactions the interparticle contact interactions, and a constant friction (or other constraint mechanism) reproduces the initial thinning as well as the shear thickening transition. However, to quantitatively capture the intermediate Newtonian plateau and the second shear thinning, an additional nonhydrodynamic interaction of non-DLVO origin and a decreasing coefficient of friction, respectively, are essential, thus providing an explanation for the presence of the intermediate Newtonian plateau along with reproducing the second shear thinning in a single framework. Expressions utilized for various interactions and friction are determined from experimental measurements and hence result in excellent quantitative agreement between the simulations and previous experiments.
Improved Sample Preparation and Optimized Solvent Extraction for Quantitation of Carotenoids.

Accurate, rapid quantitation of key antioxidants such as carotenoids is important for assessment of food quality. Carotenoids are lipid-soluble pigments that are susceptible to oxidation due to their highly conjugated carbon-carbon double bonds. Therefore, the present work focuses on improving sample preparation to facilitate rapid analysis of carotenoids. The method involves optimized carotenoid extraction followed by direct HPLC analysis without further concentration and redissolution. For extraction, we tested the effect of blending time (1, 3 and 5 min) and 12 different solvent combinations for carotenoid extraction from cantaloupe (Cucumis melo var. cantalupensis) and oranges (Citrus sinensis), two popular fruits that are high in carotenoids. The identification of carotenoids was performed by LC-APCI-QTOF-HR-MS in positive-ionization mode. In melon, 1 min blending time gave significantly higher β-carotene content with CHCl3: Ace (1:1) solvent. The optimized method was validated with tomato, watermelon, oranges, grapefruit, melon varieties and commercial products such as fruit juices. Among the different melon varieties, Western Shipper had significantly higher β-carotene (25.1 ± 0.4 µg/g) contents. In oranges, β-carotene and (all-E)-lycopene contents were 4.4 ± 0.1and 3.8 ± 0.1 µg/g, respectively. The optimized method has fewer unit operations and is reproducible for the quantitation of carotenoids and their isomers. This is the first report on the identification of ζ-carotene isomers, and lycopene isomers from cantaloupe varieties and lycopene from oranges.
Ecological Momentary Assessment of Weight-Related Behaviors in the Home Environment of Children From Low-Income and Racially and Ethnically Diverse Households: Development and Usability Study.

BACKGROUND Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) is an innovative tool for capturing in-the-moment health behaviors as people go about their daily lives. EMA is an ideal tool to measure weight-related behaviors, such as parental feeding practices, stress, and dietary intake, as these occur on a daily basis and vary across time and context. A recent systematic review recommended standardized reporting of EMA design for studies that address weight-related behaviors. OBJECTIVE To answer the call for reporting study designs using EMA, this paper describes in detail the EMA design of the Family Matters study and how it was adapted over time to improve functionality and meet the needs of a racially, ethnically, and socioeconomically diverse sample. METHODS Family Matters is an incremental, 2-phased, mixed methods study, conducted with a racially and ethnically diverse, immigrant and refugee sample from largely low-income households, designed to examine risk and protective factors for child weight and weight-related behaviors in the home environment. The Family Matters study intentionally recruited White, Black, Hmong, Latino, Native American, and Somali parents with young children. Parents in phase 1 of the study completed 8 days of EMA on their smartphones, which included signal-contingent surveys (eg, asking about the parent's stress at the time of the survey), event-contingent surveys (eg, descriptions of the meal the child ate), and end-of-day surveys (eg, overall assessment of the child's day). RESULTS A detailed description of EMA strategies, protocols, and methods used in phase 1 of the Family Matters study is provided. Compliance with EMA surveys and participants' time spent completing EMA surveys are presented and stratified by race and ethnicity. In addition, lessons learned while conducting phase 1 EMA are shared to document how EMA methods were improved and expanded upon for phase 2 of the Family Matters study. CONCLUSIONS The results from this study provided an important next step in identifying best practices for EMA use in assessing weight-related behaviors in the home environment. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/30525.
Introduction to the LAPW Method

The LAPW method is fundamentally a modification to the augmented planewave method of Slater (1937, 1964). Thus, before embarking on an exposition of the LAPW method, we review the relevant aspects of the APW method and the motivation for its modification to the LAPW method. Further details about the APW method may be found in the book by Loucks (1967), which also reprints several early papers that develop and use this method.
"For terror of the deadness beyond": arctic environments and inhuman ecologies in Michelle Paver’s "Dark matter"

0 0 1 196 1122 RISD 9 2 1316 14.0 0 Normal 0 false false false EN-US JA X-NONE Normal 0 21 false false false ES X-NONE X-NONE In this essay I examine Michelle Paver’s 2010 novel Dark Matter , a ghost story, for how her use of the gothic and horror contributes to undermining pastoral and romantic fantasies about the Arctic. Drawing on the history of whale, walrus, and seal hunting in Svalbard, the site of the novel’s 1937 scientific expedition, and my own experience there, I look at the tension Paver creates between the beauty of the Svalbard environment and its long history as a location for human violence against nonhuman animals. I suggest that, through the figure of the genganger , or “one who walks again,” and the built environment and relics in Svalbard, Paver works to transmit both the violence of harvesting marine mammals and the violence men perpetrate against each other in the name of resource extraction. In this essay I engage in dialogue with recent environmental humanities work on ecophobia, dark ecologies, and the ecocritical uses of fear, and argue for the consideration of the ghost story, a genre little studied by ecocritics. Through highlighting the novel’s focus on violence linked to extractive practices, I suggest, finally, that Dark Matter performs two important functions: it records past inhuman ecologies and it opens out onto a reading of contemporary Arctic geopolitics. Resumen Este ensayo analiza como el uso de narrativas goticas y de terror en la novela de Michelle Paver Dark Matter ( La materia oscura , 2010), un cuento de fantasmas, debilita las fantasias bucolicas y romanticas del Artico. Recurriendo a la historia de la caza de ballenas, morsas y focas en Svalbard, el emplazamiento de la expedicion cientifica de 1937 de la novela, asi como mi propia experiencia alli, analizo la tension creada por Paver entre la belleza del medio ambiente de Svalbard y su larga historia como lugar de violencia humana contra animales no-humano. Sugiero que, a traves de la figura del genganger , o “el que anda otra vez,” las reliquias y el medio ambiente construido de Svalbard, Paver intenta transmitir tanto la violencia de la cosecha y comercio de mamiferos marinos como la que perpetuan los hombres contra si mismos en nombre de la extraccion de recursos. En este ensayo entro en dialogo con el trabajo reciente de las humanidades medioambientales sobre la ecofobia, las ecologias oscuras, y el uso del miedo en la ecocritica, y propongo el estudio del cuento de fantasmas, un genero que ha recibido poca atencion de los ecocriticos. Al destacar el foco de la novela sobre la violencia relacionada con las practicas de extraccion, sugiero, finalmente, que Dark Matter , tiene dos funciones importantes: graba ecologias inhumanas del pasado y abre una lectura de la geopolitica del Artico contemporanea.