cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of high hydrostatic pressure inactivation of human norovirus on strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and in their purees

Human norovirus (HuNoV) has been an increasing concern of foodborne illness related to fresh and frozen berries. In this study, high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) inactivation of HuNoV on fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries and in their purees was investigated. Porcine gastric mucin (PGM)-conjugated magnetic beads (PGM-MBs) and real-time reverse transcriptional polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) were utilized for infectious HuNoV discrimination and quantification. Strawberry puree inoculated with HuNoV genogroup I.1 (GI.1) strain was HHP-treated at 450, 500 and 550 MPa for 2 min each at initial sample temperatures of 0, 4 and 20 °C. HuNoV GI.1 strain became more sensitive to HHP treatment as the temperature decreased from 20 to 0 °C. HuNoV GI.1 or genogroup II.4 (GII.4) strains were inoculated into three types of berries and their purees and treated at pressure levels from 250 to 650 MPa for 2 min at initial sample temperature of 0 °C. For the purees, the HHP condition needed to achieve >2.9 log reduction of HuNoV GI.1 strain and >4.0 log reduction of HuNoV GII.4 strain was found to be ≥ 550 MPa for 2 min at 0 °C. HHP treatment showed better inactivation effect of HuNoV on blueberries than on strawberry quarters and raspberries. HuNoV GI.1 strain was more resistant to HHP treatment than HuNoV GII.4 strain under different temperatures and environment. The physical properties and sensory qualities of HHP-treated and untreated blueberries and the three types of berry purees were evaluated. Color, pH and viscosity of blueberries and three berry purees showed no or slight changes after HHP treatment. Sensory evaluation demonstrated that HHP treatment of 550 MPa for 2 min at 0 °C did not significantly reduced the sensory qualities of three berry purees. The results demonstrated that the HHP treatment of 550 MPa for 2 min at 0 °C could be a potential nonthermal intervention for HuNoV in berry purees without adversely affecting their sensory qualities and physical properties.
The Effect of Irradiation on the Plasma Erythropoietic Stimulating Factor

1) Protein-free plasma extracts from rabbits made anemic by the administration of phenylhydrazine immediately following total body x-irradiation are capable of stimulating erythropoiesis in the normal rat as demonstrated by erythrocytosis, reticulocytosis, and increased marrow erythropoietic activity. 2) Plasma extracts from rabbits made anemic by total body x-irradiation alone contain an erythropoietic stimulating factor. 3) These data would indicate that the stimulating factor is not produced by hemopoietic or other radiosensitive tissue and its formation is not dependent upon a regenerative marrow.
Multi-Time Scale Coordination of Distributed Energy Resources in Isolated Power Systems

In isolated power systems, including microgrids, distributed assets, such as renewable energy resources (e.g., wind and solar) and energy storage, can be actively coordinated to reduce dependency on fossil fuel generation. The key challenge of such coordination arises from significant uncertainty and variability occurring at small time scales associated with increased penetration of renewables. Specifically, the problem is with ensuring economic and efficient utilization of distributed energy resources (DERs), while also meeting operational objectives such as adequate frequency performance. One possible solution is to reduce the time step at which tertiary controls are implemented, and to ensure feedback and look-ahead capability are incorporated to handle variability and uncertainty. However, reducing the time step of tertiary controls necessitates investigating time-scale coupling with primary controls so as not to exacerbate system stability issues. In this paper, an optimal coordination strategy, which considers multiple time-scales, is proposed for isolated microgrid systems with a mix of DERs. This coordination strategy is based on an online moving horizon optimization approach. The effectiveness of the strategy was evaluated in terms of economics, technical performance, and computation time by varying key parameters that significantly impact performance. The illustrative example with realistic scenarios on a simulated isolated microgrid test system suggests that the proposed approach is generalizable toward designing multi-time scale optimal coordination strategies for isolated power systems.
Preparation of GFP-βARKct-contained Recombinant Adenovirus

[Objective]To prepare gfp-βARKct-contained recombinant adenovirus, rAd-gfp-βARKct (beta-adrenergic receptor kinase COOH terminus).[Methods] βARKct gene was digested from pUC57-βARKct and inserted into shuttle plasmid to construct transfer plasmid pAdTrack-CMV-βARKct. pAdTrack-CMV-βARKct was linearized with PmeI and transformed into BJ5183 bacteria containing adenovirus genomic plasmid pAdEasy-I to construct recombinant adenovirus plasmid pAdEasy-gfp-βARKct. The recombinant adenovirus plasmids were identified by PCR amplification and restriction analysis, and the correct one was digested with PacI and transferred into 293 cells mediated by LipoFectamine 2000 to package recombinant adenovirus particles. The βARKct gene was detected by PCR, and the recombinant adenovirus were purified by CsCl banding. Infected by rAd-gfp-βARKct, the β myosin heavy chain (βMHC) gene expression was studied in neonatal hypertrophic cardiac myocytes induced by noradrenaline(NE). [Results] There were about 20% positive recombinant bacterial clones obtained after the transfer plasmid pAdTrack-CMV-βARKct was transformed into BJ5183 containing pAdEasy-I. Recombinant adenovirus particles were produced and further amplified after the transfection of pAdEasy-gfp-βARKct into 293 cells. PCR test showed that the recombinant adenovirus containing βARKct gene. The titer of the purified recombinant adenovirus rAd-gfp-βARKct was 6.0×106 plaque-forming unit (pfu/mL). The βARKct expressed by rAd-gfp-βARKct could reduce the βMHC expression in cardiac myocytes of neonatal Sprague-Dawley. [Conclusion]The recombinant adenovirus plasmid pAdEasy-gfp-βARKct was constructed, and the high titer of recombinant adenovirus rAd-gfp-βARKct, expressing βARKct, were prepared in 293 cells.
MP4: MICROCYTOSIS IN PERNICIOUS ANEMIA WITHOUT IRON DEFICIENCY OR THALASSEMIA TRAIT

Purpose of Study To demonstrate the presence and attributes of microcytes in Pernicious Anemia (PA) patients with high Red blood cell (RBC) distribution widths (RDW), but without iron deficiency or thalassemia trait. Marked macrocytosis is typical of PA, but their RDW are usually elevated (>21%). Methods Used Cases and Methods We report two patients with severe anemia, B 12 deficiency, and elevated RDW9s. Patient 1 : 55 y/o African–American man, with dyspnea, finger paresthesias without gait disturbance. WBC 2.4 K/uL, Hb 4.8 g/dL, MCV 84.8 fL, RDW 30%, reticulocyte count 15 K/uL, iron 234 µg/dL, ferritin 880 ng/dL, platelets 70 K/uL, LDH 5980 U/L, B 12 Patient 2 : 37 y/o African-American woman with long hx of anemia, recent weakness, and gait disturbance. WBC 3.5, Hb 6.3, MCV 114, RDW 29.5%, reticulocyte count 27, iron 108, TIBC 304 mg/dL, ferritin 50, platelets 45, LDH 2484, B 12 60. Both patients9 hematologic parameters normalized within 1–7 months after B 12 treatment. Summary of Results Microcytes constituted 32.8% of 1000 RBC in patient 1, whose MCV was normal, and 19.3% in patient 2. They were minute, irregular or twisted cells, often with two very unequal dimensions. They were often normochromic, or even hypochromic. Twenty of the small cells were measured, and their smallest dimension ranged from 2–4 microns, with an average of 3.0 microns. The larger dimension averaged 1.5–2.0 times greater than the smaller. The larger cells were circular or elliptical, with equal dimensions ranging from 6.2 to 13 microns. Conclusions Although the coexistence of macrocytic and normocytic RBC may help to explain PA patients9 high RDW, a significant percentage of their RBC may be microcytic. These microcytes are smaller than those in iron deficiency or thalassemia, have very irregular shapes (micro-poikilocytes), and resemble neither other types of microcytes nor schistocytes. The microcytes in one patient reduced his MCV to a normal level. These microcytes may be the result of megaloblastic dyserythropoiesis.
The Clinical Outcome of Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome

We read with great interest the article by Karia et al[1][1] on posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) evaluating the association between the presence of enhancement in PRES and various clinical factors in a large series of 176 patients with PRES. They found that the presence or pattern
MO-DE-206-02: Cellular Metabolism of FDG

In this symposium jointly sponsored by the World Molecular Imaging Society (WMIS) and the AAPM, luminary speakers on imaging metabolism will discuss three impactful topics. The first presentation on Cellular Metabolism of FDG will be given by Guillem Pratx (Stanford). This presentation will detail new work on looking at how the most common molecular imaging agent, fluoro-deoxy-glucose is metabolized at a cellular level. This will be followed by a talk on an improved approach to whole-body PET imaging by Simon Cherry (UC Davis). Simon’s work on a new whole-body PET imaging system promises to have dramatic improvement in our ability to detect and characterize cancer using PET. Finally, Jim Bankson (MD Anderson) will discuss extremely sophisticated approaches to quantifying hyperpolarized-13-C pyruvate metabolism using MR imaging. This technology promises to compliment the exquisite sensitivity of PET with an ability to measure not just uptake, but tumor metabolism. Learning Objectives: 1. Understand the metabolism of FDG at a cellular level. 2. Appreciate the engineering related to a novel new high-sensitivity whole-body PET imaging system. 3. Understand the process of hyperpolarization, how pyruvate relates to metabolism and how advanced modeling can be used to better quantify this data. G. Pratx, Funding: 5R01CA186275, 1R21CA193001, and Damon Runyon Cancer Foundation. S. Cherry, National Institutes of Health; University of California, Davis; Siemens Medical SolutionsJ. Bankson, GE Healthcare; NCI P30-CA016672; CPRIT PR140021-P5
Precise In Situ Modulation of Local Liquid Chemistry via Electron Irradiation in Nanoreactors Based on Graphene Liquid Cells

A controlled electron-water radiolysis process is used to generate predictable concentrations of radical and ionic species in graphene liquid cells, allowing the concept of a nanoscale chemical reactor. A differential scanning technique is used to generate the desired time- and space-varying electron dose rate. Precise control of the local concentration of H2 , the dominant radiolysis species, is demonstrated experimentally at the nanometer scale.
Equilibrium Constants and Relationships in the Inhibition of Serinesterases by Organophosphates

The equilibrium constants for the reactions of diethyl phosphofluoridate and eel acetylcholinesterase, bovine red cell acetylcholinesterase, horse serum butyrylcholinesterase, and bovine α-chymotrypsin were measured. The values obtained were 2.3 x l0 4 , 3 x 10 5 , 6.4 x 10 6 , and 6 X 10 8 , respectively, in terms of analytical concentrations at pH 7.0 and 25°, with water activity as unity. These were converted to equilibrium constants for the hydrolysis of the diethylphosphoryl-enzyme derivative: 5.2 x l0 10 , 4 x 10 9 , 2 x 10 8 , and 2 x 10 6 , respectively. These values enable one to calculate the equilibrium constant for the reaction of the enzymes with any diethyl phosphate ester whose equilibrium constant for hydrolysis is known. If the rate constant for inhibition is also known, the rate constant for reactivation of the inhibited enzyme can be calculated. These calculations were made for diethyl p -nitrophenyl phosphate and the conjugate reactivator p -nitrophenol and checked experimentally for the eel enzyme.
Tensions and Perplexities within Teacher Education and P-12 Schools for Music Teachers with Visual Impairments.

ABSTRACTWe have written this article seeking to connect societal perceptions of disability with P–12 schools and higher education institutions toward the goal of greater understanding and equitable employment opportunities for music teachers with disabilities, specifically teacher candidates with visual impairment. In our investigation, we examine the following questions: (a) How have special education programs within P–12 schools, universities, and schools of music reflected societal perceptions of persons with disabilities and how do those in turn influence perceptions of teacher candidates? (b) How have the essential functions of teaching been articulated by accreditation programs and what tensions arise when music teachers with visual impairments are considered for employment? and (c) What are potential ways forward for P–12 education, teacher education programs, and schools of music? To disrupt binaries between able and disabled in schools, we recommend embracing a broader, interdependent view of mus...
Highlighting Cancer Cells with Halochromic Switches.

Halochromic coumarin–oxazine prefluorophores and targeting folate ligands can be connected covalently to the side chains of amphiphilic polymers. The resulting macromolecular constructs assemble into nanoparticles in aqueous environments. The prefluorophores do not produce any detectable fluorescence at neutral pH, but are converted into fluorophores with intense visible emission at acidic pH. Protonation opens the oxazine heterocycle to shift bathochromically the coumarin absorption and activate fluorescence with a brightness per nanoparticle approaching 5 × 105 M–1 cm–1. This value translates into a 170-fold enhancement relative to the isolated fluorophores dissolved in organic solvent. The folate ligands direct these multicomponent constructs into acidic intracellular compartments of folate-positive cells, where the prefluorophores switch to the corresponding fluorophores and produce fluorescence. The pH-induced activation of the signaling units ensures negligible background fluorescence from the extra...
Source parameters of the 13 February 1980, Karakorum earthquake

Abstract The Karakorum earthquake of 13 February 1980 is one of the largest events that has occurred beneath the Karakorum range in recent time. It involved oblique thrusting at an intermediate depth. Focal depths determined from forward modeling and moment-tensor inversion of teleseismic P and SH waves give similar results (90 ± 4 km). The scalar double-couple moment of 1.27 × 10 18 N-m was obtained from the moment-tensor inversion. Estimates of stress drop based on this moment value are about 0.3 to 1 MPa (3 to 10 bars). The compressional stress orientation, inferred from the focal mechanism, is approximately parallel to the strike of the underthrusting Asian continental lithosphere and may reflect detachment of the Asian crust as it plunges beneath the Karakorum. Alternatively, the T axis of the focal mechanism, oriented parallel to the northward-subducting Indian continental lithosphere, indicates down-dip extension and implies that slab pull is important. The thrust-type mechanism of the Karakorum event contrasts greatly with the normal-type intermediate-depth event reported previously and suggests a complex state-of-stress beneath the Karakorum range.
The Computational and Aesthetic Foundations of Artificial Empathy

Many pioneers in technology, from Elon Musk to Bill Gates, have expressed caution regarding the advance of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. Socially, a “doomsday” scenario of AI dominating humanity is entrenched in popular culture, ranging from movies to political worries of the role of AI in military organizations. However, this fear is based on an assumption that intelligence is the only facet of the human experience that researchers seek to replicate. The AI agents portrayed as harmful are those that can understand their surroundings, store large amounts of data, possess advanced knowledge, and have the capability to coordinate, kill, and destroy far beyond humans. On the other hand, these portrayals of AI do not show artificial empathy, compassion, and love that even approach the same level of humans. In this paper, I plan to investigate the scientific and computational foundations of artificial empathy, and the aesthetic methods of making it appear genuine. Using an interdisciplinary approach, I aim to show that artificial empathy is not only possible, but also necessary for a positive future for artificial intelligence.
Memorandum on the Asset Management Industry

This memo aims to support the Volcker Alliance’s project on financial regulatory reform by providing a comprehensive account of the asset management industry in the United States: its structure, participants, and activities; how it is regulated; how it has evolved in recent years, particularly since the financial crisis; and potential risks to financial stability arising out of the industry.
Real-Time Feedback Control of Carbon Content of Zirconium Dioxide Thin Films Using Optical Emission Spectroscopy

Abstract In this work, we present a methodology for real-time carbon content feedback control of a plasma-enhanced metal organic chemical vapor deposition process using optical emission spectroscopy. Initially, an estimation model of carbon content of ZrO2 thin films based on real-time optical emission spectroscopy data is presented. Then, a feedback control scheme, which employs the proposed estimation model and a proportional-integral controller, is developed to achieve carbon content control. Using this approach, a real-time control system is developed and implemented on an experimental electron cyclotron resonance high density plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition system at UCLA to demonstrate the effectiveness of real-time feedback control of carbon content. Experimental results of the deposition process under both open-loop and closed-loop operations are shown and compared. The advantages of operating the process under real-time feedback control in terms of higher productivity, reduced process variation and lower carbon content are demonstrated
Measurement of Cross Sections for the 7Li(n, n′γ)7Li Reaction from 0.57 to 4 MeV

Cross-section ratios for production of the 0.478-MeV gamma ray by the 7Li(n, n′γ)7Li reaction relative to fast-neutron fission of 235U have been measured from 0.57 to 4 MeV with an estimated error ...
Is there any role for physical therapy in chronic GvHD

Chronic GvHD is the leading cause of non-relapse mortality in recipients of hematopoietic cell transplantation. Although the benefit of physical therapy (PT) has been reported in some GvHD studies, a literature gap is identified in demonstrating the exact role of different types of PT interventions and their impact on GvHD outcomes. An electronic search was undertaken using 13 peer-reviewed databases from 1994 to 2016. JADAD scoring method was used to score the quality of articles. PT interventions utilized for non-GvHD aspects of transplantation were excluded. Out of the 4775 articles on the electronic search, 297 articles were reviewed out of which 3 fulfilled the selection criteria. Moderately high evidence for effectiveness of supervised PT intervention was found, whereas moderate evidence for a self-administered exercise program was established. No safety concerns with PT were observed in any of the studies, however none of the studies were conducted to directly evaluate safety and effectiveness specifically in GvHD patients. PT is a safe but understudied therapy for GvHD. Limited evidence on the effectiveness of most PT interventions is available through randomized control trials. Well-designed trials are urgently needed for musculoskeletal GvHD especially with focused PT interventions.
Global linkages between teleconnection patterns and the terrestrial biosphere

Abstract Interannual variability in the global carbon cycle is largely due to variations in carbon uptake by terrestrial ecosystems, yet linkages between climate variability and variability in the terrestrial carbon cycle are not well understood at the global scale. Using a 30-year satellite record of semi-monthly leaf area index (LAI), we show that four modes of climate variability − El Nino/Southern Oscillation, the North Atlantic Oscillation, the Atlantic Meridional Mode, and the Indian Ocean Dipole Mode − strongly impact interannual vegetation growth patterns, with 68% of the land surface impacted by at least one of these teleconnection patterns, yet the spatial distribution of these impacts is heterogeneous. Considering the patterns’ impacts by biome, none has an exclusively positive or negative relationship with LAI. Our findings imply that future changes in the frequency and/or magnitude of teleconnection patterns will lead to diverse changes to the terrestrial biosphere and the global carbon cycle.
Validation of the Narrowing Beam Walking Test in Lower Limb Prosthesis Users.

Abstract Objective To evaluate the content, construct, and discriminant validity of the Narrowing Beam Walking Test (NBWT), a performance-based balance test for lower limb prosthesis users. Design Cross-sectional study. Setting Research laboratory and prosthetics clinic. Participants Unilateral transtibial and transfemoral prosthesis users (N=40). Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures Content validity was examined by quantifying the percentage of participants receiving maximum or minimum scores (ie, ceiling and floor effects). Convergent construct validity was examined using correlations between participants' NBWT scores and scores or times on existing clinical balance tests regularly administered to lower limb prosthesis users. Known-groups construct validity was examined by comparing NBWT scores between groups of participants with different fall histories, amputation levels, amputation etiologies, and functional levels. Discriminant validity was evaluated by analyzing the area under each test's receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Results No minimum or maximum scores were recorded on the NBWT. NBWT scores demonstrated strong correlations (ρ=.70‒.85) with scores/times on performance-based balance tests (timed Up and Go test, Four Square Step Test, and Berg Balance Scale) and a moderate correlation (ρ=.49) with the self-report Activities-specific Balance Confidence scale. NBWT performance was significantly lower among participants with a history of falls ( P =.003), transfemoral amputation ( P =.011), and a lower mobility level ( P .50 (ie, chance). Conclusions The results provide strong evidence of content, construct, and discriminant validity for the NBWT as a performance-based test of balance ability. The evidence supports its use to assess balance impairments and fall risk in unilateral transtibial and transfemoral prosthesis users.
Adaptation to Reward

For some years ethologists, working largely in the field, and psychologists, working largely in the laboratory, had little to say to one another about learning and adaptive behavior in animals. Ethologists tend to explain behavior in terms of Darwinian fitness and adaptive function. Psychologists are concerned with mechanisms, physiological or formal. Animals in the laboratory often behave in apparently maladaptive ways, supporting psychologists’ suspicion of accounts in terms of adaptation. Ethologists, noting the artificiality of some laboratory procedures, have sometimes regarded situations far from the natural as essentially irrelevant to understanding animal behavior.
Characterization and modeling of InGaAs and InGaSb thermophotovoltaic cells and materials

Characterization of thermophotovoltaic (TPV) semiconductor materials before and after the fabrication of TPV cells is a very important part of obtaining good quality TPV converters. Various measurements setups have been designed and built to characterize both the starting material and finished TPV cells. These measurement setups include a microwave reflectance setup to obtain bulk lifetime data of starting material, a V{sub oc} decay setup to obtain lifetime data for finished cells, a quantum efficiency setup to measure the external quantum efficiency of finished cells, a capacitance-voltage setup to measure built-in potentials and base doping profiles of cells and a pulsed current-voltage setup to obtain the electrical characteristics of both illuminated and unilluminated TPV cells. A TPV cell simulation program was developed to help optimize the design of In{sub x}Ga{sub 1{minus}x}As and In{sub x}Ga{sub 1{minus}x}Sb cells operating at room temperature. The program is also capable of extracting diffusion lengths and surface recombination velocities from quantum efficiency measurements of finished cells. The program calculates not only the quantum efficiency of a cell, but also the illuminated current density vs. voltage for any incident spectrum. This allows the determination of the electrical characteristics and conversion efficiency of a cell prior to fabrication.
Fields of Dreams: Place, Race, and Memory in Boston's Vietnamese American Community

In this article I explain how and why Boston's Vietnamese American story deserves its own telling. Boston's urban landscape presents particular challenges to community-building that require tailor-made strategies on the part of community leaders. They are dealing with Boston's challenges by creating a place that is distinct from Chinatown and laden with its own claims to the past and visions of the future. Seeking to understand the complex relationship between place, race, and memory in the community-building process, I have interviewed most of the community's English-speaking movers and shakers since 1994.
Banded Microstructure in 2024-T351 and 2524-T351 Aluminum Friction Stir Welds: Part II. Mechanical Characterization

Abstract A series of micro-mechanical experiments have been performed to quantify how the friction stir welding (FSW) process affects the material response within the periodic bands that have been shown to be a common feature of FSW joints. Micro-mechanical studies employed sectioning of small samples and micro-tensile testing using digital image correlation to quantify the local stress–strain variations in the banded region. Results indicate that the two types of bands in 2024-T351 and 2524-T351 aluminum FSW joints (a) have different hardening rates with the particle-rich bands having the higher strain hardening exponent, (b) exhibit a periodic variation in micro-hardness across the bands and (c) the individual bands in each material have the same initial yield stress.
The Efficiency of the Market for Single-Family Homes: A Critique on Case and Shiller (1989)

This paper comments on the Weighted Repeated Sales (WRS) method in Case and Shiller (1989). We find that Case-Shiller’s model for step-two of WRS is conceptually mis-specified and empirically inaccurate, which are likely to cause the S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Indices to be biased for the most critical housing markets (i.e. nine of the ten cities with housing related derivatives based on the indices). Based on our examination of real estate market risks, we propose a quadratic model for the second step of WRS and show that our specification is actually more consistent with the findings by Case and Shiller (1989).
Evolution and the Stability of Functional Architectures

A puzzle about functional organization has gone largely unnoticed in our debates about the nature of function. Although we recognize that systems evolve and acquire new functions, noone has systematically discussed whether there are constraints on how this is likely to occur. This naturally suggests the widely discussed problem of evolutionary innovation, but I am interested here in the complementary problem: things we already know about epistatic codependencies in functional organization suggest that the common conservation of organization under mutations or sexual recombination should be quite remarkable. This arises either for Cummins style role function or on the selectionist account of function. There are strong constraints on the addition of new functions imposed by conditions of evolvability and generative entrenchment. Evolvability favors increases in robustness for functionally important architectural features. And greater generative entrenchment produces more constraints on what changes can be adaptive, yielding a rapidly declining probability that macromutations of increasing size will work. These are both bound to affect the structure of functional architectures and the character of functional innovations. If these constraints were violated systematically and frequently, the flux of changes in functional architectures would give us significant troubles even in individuating and identifying functions in complex organizations and the instability of function would make evolution virtually impossible. But taking account of these constraints is more broadly revealing. Doing so gives a new perspective on the relation between selectionist and causal role accounts of function.
Robotic-Assisted Adrenalectomy

Robotic-assisted adrenalectomy is increasingly utilized as an alternative to laparoscopic surgery, and appears to confer decreases in hospital length of stay and blood loss compared to laparoscopic surgery. Robotic surgery has successfully been used for a variety of adrenal lesions, including resection of large tumors, pheochromocytomas, adrenocortical carcinomas (ACC), partial adrenalectomy and adrenal metastasectomy. The perceived advantage of robotics includes improved magnification, stereoscopic vision, and greater range of motion compared to traditional laparoscopy. This chapter will outline the surgical technique of left and right transperitoneal robotic-assisted adrenalectomy.
An effective privacy enhanced interface to support record linkage decisions

IntroductionPrivacy enhanced technologies (PET) are those that measure and protect privacy by preventing unnecessary use of personal data without loss of the functionality of the information system. In practice, implementing such a system requires fine-grained access control so that access can be granted in smaller chunks of data. Objectives and ApproachIn record linkage, PET to date has mostly meant separation of identifiers and sensitive information to allow access to only the necessary part. Moving beyond this current norm, we have designed a privacy enhanced interface to support linkage that discloses only the needed information at the sub variable level, when needed to make good decisions, to reduce exposure of personally identifiable information (PII). The system allows for access to PII both at (1) cell level (e.g., only names of needed people are released) or (2) sub-cell level (e.g., only part of a name, suffix or characters, is released). ResultsIn a user study (N=104) where participants tried to link complicated situations (e.g. twins, Sr/Jr, change of last name) using the interface, we found that users given fully masked data, 0% of information disclosed, were still able to get 75% accuracy using supplemental visual markup. The markups depict data discrepancies such as swapped first and last names, transposed characters, different characters and missing data. More importantly, with this effective interface, we found that there were no statistical difference in accuracy of linkage (84%) or time taken between users with access to all data and those with access to only 30% of the data. We have released a tutorial where users can experience balancing between information disclosure and accuracy of results on sample data. Conclusion/ImplicationsPrivacy is a major public concern when PII is legitimately accessed to link data. Our study demonstrates that a well-designed privacy enhanced interface can significantly reduce exposure of PII to people when resolving ambiguous linkages without compromising linkage quality. This research points to a new direction for PET in record linkage beyond encryption.
Cultural values and romantic relationship satisfaction in Mexican adolescents: The moderating effects of parental psychological control and gender.

Abstract Introduction Cultural values and parent-adolescent relationships may impact adolescents' romantic relationship quality. The goal of this study was to examine whether perceived mothers' and fathers’ psychological control and gender moderated associations between cultural values (i.e., machismo, caballerismo, views of female virginity) and romantic relationship satisfaction in Mexican adolescents. Methods Self-report survey data were collected from 213 adolescents (M = 14.59 years old; 50.5% girls) from two public schools in Mexico. All participants were in a romantic relationship at time of study, and reported on their age, gender, endorsement of cultural values (i.e., machismo, caballerismo, views of female virginity), perceived parental psychological control, and romantic satisfaction. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted on a romantic relationship satisfaction scale. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to assess interactions between cultural values, mothers' and fathers’ psychological control, and gender on romantic relationship satisfaction. Results Findings revealed adolescents who endorsed caballerismo reported higher relationship satisfaction. These associations were strongest for adolescent girls reporting low maternal psychological control and adolescent boys reporting high maternal psychological control. Perceived fathers’ psychological control did not moderate associations between cultural values and romantic satisfaction. No associations were found between machismo, female virginity, and romantic relationship satisfaction. Conclusion Adolescents’ caballersimo values were linked to higher relationship satisfaction. Findings suggest that parent education programs in Mexico may benefit from teaching parents to instill values of caballerismo in their romantically involved adolescents. Additionally, specialists working with Mexican adolescent girls may help them reframe perceived psychologically controlling behaviors into attempts to communicate affection.
Abstract 051: A New Model of Murine Stasis Pulmonary Thromboembolism in vivo With Assessment by Noninvasive Multimodal Molecular-Structural Imaging

Objective: Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a life-threatening cardiovascular disease that urgently requires improved diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic options. Here we established and investigated ...
Adolescents' E-Cigarette Use: Increases in Frequency, Dependence, and Nicotine Exposure Over 12 Months.

Abstract Purpose This study examined changes in e-cigarette and dual-use frequency, levels of nicotine exposure and e-cigarette dependence, and device and e-liquid preferences over 12 months. Methods Adolescents (N = 173, aged 13–18 years) who reported past-month e-cigarette use and at least 10 lifetime uses were recruited from the San Francisco Bay Area. The sample was 75.1% male, 54.9% non-Hispanic White, mean age 16.6 years (standard deviation = 1.2); 26.6% reported past-month cigarette smoking at baseline (i.e., dual use). At baseline, 6-month, and 12-month follow-up, participants provided saliva samples for cotinine testing and self-reported e-cigarette use frequency, dependence, past-month smoking, product preference, and flavor preference. Results Most (80.3%) were still using e-cigarettes at 12 months, and daily use increased from 14.5% to 29.8%. Model testing indicated an overall increase from baseline to 12 months in frequency of e-cigarette use (F(2, 166) = 5.69, p = .004), dependence (F(2, 164) = 5.49, p = .005), and cotinine levels (F(2, 103) = 4.40, p = .038). Among those reporting only e-cigarette use at baseline, 28.8% reported combustible cigarette use during follow-up. Among those reporting dual use at baseline, 57.1% were still dual using at 12 months, 31.4% reported e-cigarette use only, and none abstained from both products. Higher nicotine delivering e-cigarette devices (i.e., Juul, mods) became more popular over time, whereas flavor preferences (i.e., fruit, mint/menthol, and candy) remained stable. Conclusions Adolescents' e-cigarette use persisted over a 12-month period with significant increases in frequency of use, nicotine exposure, and e-cigarette dependence. Transitions from single to dual and dual to single nicotine product use were observed in approximately one in three users over the study period.
Intrinsic Challenges to the Electrochemical Reversibility of the High Energy Density Copper(II) Fluoride Cathode Material

CuF2 is an attractive multielectron cathode material that can store up to ∼528 mAh/g with a high operating voltage (∼3.55 V) and a high gravimetric energy density of (1874 Wh/kg). Unfortunately, th...
'They're Digging in the Wrong Place:' How Learning Outcomes Can Improve Bar Exams and Ensure Practice Ready Attorneys

There is no question that law schools should produce professional, ethical new attorneys who have the skills, knowledge and attributes to be competent and responsible members of their new profession, and pass the bar exam. However, as it currently stands, these two goals — everyday practical lawyer skills training, and bar exam passage — have become so divided, that many law schools are being pulled in a no-win tug of war between preparing students for practice or for a memorization, doctrinal heavy exam. This conflict must stop. The title of this piece was meant to evoke a plot point from the movie Raiders of the Lost Ark. At one particular point, both our hero and another group are both searching for the Ark of the Covenant. Although the other group has an extremely technically well-organized archeological site, it is determined by our hero that because they are missing a key piece of information, they are in fact “digging in the wrong place.” Although there are no heroes or bad guys in this scenario, in many states, the administration of the bar exam is experiencing the same problem. In seeking to determine minimum competency to practice law, they may be technically testing in a well-organized fashion, but they are ignoring important outside information that would have them testing differently to find out more or different information that would be a better measure of competency for new attorneys. The bar exam is simply “digging” for competency in the wrong place. At the same time, the chorus of voices demanding that law schools make necessary steps in the reformation of legal education has risen to a fever pitch. Much has been written about the stagnancy in legal education, and despite some recent innovations, many law school experiences remain strikingly similar to both each other and the course of study as it has existed for many years. However, it is well accepted that the legal profession has changed dramatically, both in the practice, and the level of training practicing lawyers can give their new hires. The result is that although law schools are “part of a vertically integrated system of production in which the end product is lawyers,” this system is suffering a major disconnect in the pipeline. Law schools seem poised to change, but many are hampered in their efforts by the licensing exam itself. But through change and cooperation, we can fix this disconnect. This article argues for an alignment of the bar exam with the needs of the legal profession, using learning outcomes as a tool to include all the skills, knowledge and attributes of a professional, successful new attorney in cooperation with assessment by law schools. Part II gives an overview of the bar exam nationally. Part III discusses legal education, and why the bar exam is misaligned with it. Part IV discusses learning outcomes, and offers them as a solution to better align legal education, the bar exam, and the practice of law to allow new lawyers to be truly competent. Part V concludes the work.
Austeridad bajo diferentes regimenes politicos. El caso de brasil

Los programas de austeridad para cambiar la inflacion usualmente requieren sacrificios en terminos de crecimiento economico, y la distribucion de esos sacrificios puede afectar la naturaleza del regimen politico del pais que los aplique, especialmente en el Tercer Mundo.
The Final Exam: A Rose is a Rose is a Rose

(1999). The Final Exam: A Rose is a Rose is a Rose. Math Horizons: Vol. 7, No. 2, pp. 35-35.
COSMC mutations reduce T-synthase activity in advanced Alzheimer's disease.

Introduction Mutations in brain tissues that cumulate with age may contribute to Alzheimer's disease (AD). Abnormal glycoprotein and Tn antigen expression have been demonstrated in AD. We identified C1GALT1C1/COSMC mutations in AD and age-matched normals without AD. The COSMC coding mutations resulted in a significant reduction in T-synthase activity in advanced AD cases. Methods Identification of COSMC mutations, Real-Time Quantitative Reverse Transcription PCR (Q-RT-PCR), western blotting, and T-synthase activity assays. Results COSMC mutations were detected in the promotor, coding region and 3'UTR in AD and normals. COSMC coding mutations demonstrated a correlation with AD progression. T-synthase levels were significantly elevated in advanced AD compared to AD III (P = 0.03) and normals (P = 0.002). T-synthase activity in advanced AD {Braak and Braak (B&B) stages V and VI} with COSMC coding mutations was 3-fold lower than advanced AD without mutations, and 1.3-fold lower than normal (P = 0.001) and AD B&B stage III (P = 0.01) with coding mutations. Discussion COSMC coding mutations significantly diminished T-synthase activity in advanced AD, potentially causing defective galactosylation.
21. FAMILY CENTERED CARE: LONGITUDINAL COMMUNICATIONS TRAINING FOR RESIDENTS

Background Although a huge portion of medical care involves communication, there is little time dedicated to these skills. Additionally, family-centered communication is collaborative and interactive, and these skills are best taught through case-based approaches rather than passive lecture-type didactics. Objectives: We aimed to develop a longitudinal communication curriculum utilizing learner-identified content, delivered via interactive workshops over a 6-month period, supplemented with and guided by family feedback. Methods The curriculum was developed using Kern's scholarly approach. A needs assessment for resident communication skills was conducted with a survey and focus group. The Communication Assessment Tool (CAT) was used for parent feedback of residents’ performance early in the curriculum. Content for workshop sessions was developed from needs assessments, CAT results, and input from program leadership. The curriculum underwent expert internal and external review. Pediatric interns were randomly assigned to a control or intervention group. Six sessions were delivered over 6-months to the intervention group. CAT feedback was shared with the intervention group as part of the curriculum. Results Survey and focus groups identified themes of 1) lack of comfort with communication skills in difficult encounters, and 2) desire for more feedback and practice with these encounters. Five hundred surveys were collected on 36 interns using the CAT prior to the intervention. A 5-point likert scale was graded as 5 or non-5 scores. Residents performed most poorly in discussion of next steps (38% non 5) and in showing interest in families’ ideas of their children's health (28% non 5). Discussion There are self- and patient-identified performance gaps in many pediatric interns, underscoring the need for formalized curricula to teach skills specific to communication in pediatrics, particularly with emphasis on shared decision making and teach back methods. Narrative feedback from resident curriculum participants has demonstrated increased confidence and comfort levels with difficult communication. Future directions include assessment of the patient and family impact of this curriculum using follow-up CAT surveys.
Analog de Sitter space in a controlled Coulomb explosion

The Coulomb explosion of an atomic gas steered by laser-controlled time-dependent charging can be modeled by a macroscopic system of identical charges whose number is not conserved. We show that such a system can evolve in the spatially homogeneous and isotropic fashion that mimics accelerating cosmic expansions. Specifically, for a constant rate of charge production, the resulting Friedmann-Coulomb equations have a stable fixed point corresponding to an analog of de Sitter space.
New-onset atrial arrhythmias associated with mortality in black and white patients hospitalized with COVID-19.

BACKGROUND: Specific details about cardiovascular complications, especially arrhythmias, related to the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) are not well described. OBJECTIVE: We sought to evaluate the incidence and predictive factors of cardiovascular complications and new-onset arrhythmias in Black and White hospitalized COVID-19 patients and determine the impact of new-onset arrhythmia on outcomes. METHODS: We collected and analyzed baseline demographic and clinical data from COVID-19 patients hospitalized at the Tulane Medical Center in New Orleans, Louisiana, between March 1 and May 1, 2020. RESULTS: Among 310 hospitalized COVID-19 patients, the mean age was 61.4 ± 16.5 years, with 58,7% females, and 67% Black patients. Black patients were more likely to be younger, have diabetes and obesity. The incidence of cardiac complications was 20%, with 9% of patients having new-onset arrhythmia. There was no significant difference in cardiovascular outcomes between Black and White patients. A multivariate analysis determined age ≥60 years to be a predictor of new-onset arrhythmia (OR = 7.36, 95% CI [1.95;27.76], p = .003). D-dimer levels positively correlated with cardiac and new-onset arrhythmic event. New onset atrial arrhythmias predicted in-hospital mortality (OR = 2.99 95% CI [1.35;6.63], p = .007), a longer intensive care unit length of stay (mean of 6.14 days, 95% CI [2.51;9.77], p = .001) and mechanical ventilation duration(mean of 9.08 days, 95% CI [3.75;14.40], p = .001). CONCLUSION: Our results indicate that new onset atrial arrhythmias are commonly encountered in COVID-19 patients and can predict in-hospital mortality. Early elevation in D-dimer in COVID-19 patients is a significant predictor of new onset arrhythmias. Our finding suggest continuous rhythm monitoring should be adopted in this patient population during hospitalization to better risk stratify hospitalized patients and prompt earlier intervention.
The 'Multi-step' to Success: Key Points for C. Diff Labid Reduction

Background Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing for Clostridioides difficle (C. diff) does not differentiate colonization versus active disease. This healthcare system sought to implement a multi-step testing platform with PCR and toxin testing to distinguish active C diff infections versus colonization and achieve Laboratory –identified (LabID) rate lower than 4.59/10,000 patient days. Methods The hospital healthcare system C. diff database was queried for tests between 2019-2020. Selected tests were associated with adult inpatient hospitalization and National Safety Network (NHSN) LabID criteria (loose stools, day four of admission). Stool samples collected after January 2020 were tested using C. diff multi-step testing platform. Results Multi-step testing dramatically reduced LabID C diff rates from 4.59 in 2019 to 1.60 in 2020 across the healthcare system. Multi-step testing excluded 78 positive PCR with negative toxin results January-October 2020 from NHSN LabID submission. Conclusions The multi-step testing platform contributes to a systemwide 65% reduction in LabID C. diff cases reported to NHSN by differentiating between colonization and active infection. In turn, this leads to correctly identifying, isolating, and treatment of patients. In addition, identification of appropriate interventions and targeted resource allocation allows healthcare systems to move the needle closer to zero for this healthcare associated infection.