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Chronic post-surgical pain (CPSP) is a significant concern and contributes to the opioid epidemic; however, little is known about CPSP in young people.This prospective study aimed to identify sensory, psychological, and demographic factors that may increase the risk of CPSP after spinal fusion surgery for children and adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis.32 children and adolescents from two children's hospitals completed quantitative sensory testing (QST) and the Pain Catastrophizing Scale Child (PCS-C) pre-and 4-6 months post spinal fusion surgery. Between-group differences were assessed using an independent samples t-test. Pearson's correlations and stepwise linear regression were used to assess the relationship between variables at both time points.56% of patients endorsed pain post-surgery. They were more sensitive tomechanical detection on both a control non-pain site (r = -2.87, p = .004) and the back (r = -1.83, p = .04), as well as pressure pain (r=-2.37, p = .01) on the back. This group also reported worse pain scores pre-surgery. Pre-surgery helplessness positively correlated with preoperative pain (r = .67 p.001), and age was negatively correlated with the post-surgical catastrophizing total score (r =-.39, p = .05), suggesting that younger patients endorsed more pain-related worry after surgery.Patients who present with pain during their preoperative appointment may need to be monitored with increased vigilance throughout the perioperative period, possibly with bedside QST and psychological questionnaires, which nurses could administer. Biobehavioral interventions targeting pain intensity and feelings of helplessness and anxiety during the preoperative period may alleviate the transition to CPSP.

A Ni–Fe based perovskite oxide catalyzes the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), coupled with changes in local composition and structure identified by virtue of an epitaxial thin film geometry.

Coulomb interactions govern most optoelectronic properties in semiconductors including bandgap, excitons, polaron formation, light absorption, interaction of carriers with defects, charge and energy transport. A clear signature of the strength of many-body Coulomb interactions is the exciton binding energy (Eb). As such, the importance of Eb is perhaps second only to the fundamental band gap (Eg) in understanding the physics and efficiency of low-dimensional semiconductors. However, despite their importance, Eg and Eb are difficult to measure. Here, by choosing 2D halide perovskites as the material and electroabsorption as the experimental probe, we measure Eg and Eb with a precision that is an order of magnitude better than typical methods. The Eb values are both lower than previous literature reports and lower than expected from standard theory. Using dielectric spectroscopy, density functional theory, and quantum mechanical modeling, we demonstrate these low Eb values are a consequence of unique screening effects, such as superlattice screening and phonon screening. We demonstrate a clear correlation between Eb and Eg and provide design principles in order to a priori tune Eg and Eb to their optimal values. As such, this work lays the blueprint for Eg-Eb engineering of low-dimensional semiconductors, as an even more useful replacement to simply band gap engineering.

The importance of students feeling connected in school cannot be overstated, as this perception is crucial to support their health and well-being. A lack of school connectedness can lead to adverse physical and mental health outcomes, including bully victimization. Numerous factors, including individual, social, and environmental, influence students’ perceived sense of school connectedness. School nurses are well positioned to establish and maintain school connectedness due to their knowledge, accessibility to students, and familiarity with the school environment. This article details the importance of school connectedness and describes the associations between school connectedness, bullying, and mental health. In addition, we offer recommendations geared toward school nurses regarding strengthening school connectedness and promoting a culture of care and inclusivity within school environments, especially salient in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Parasitic plant infestations dramatically reduce the yield of many major food crops of sub-Saharan Africa and pose a serious threat to food security on that continent1. The first committed step of a successful infestation is the germination of parasite seeds primarily in response to a group of related small-molecule hormones called strigolactones (SLs), which are emitted by host roots2. Despite the important role of SLs, it is not clear how host-derived SLs germinate parasitic plants. In contrast, gibberellins (GA) acts as the dominant hormone for stimulation of germination in non-parasitic plant species by inhibiting a set of DELLA repressors3. Here, we show that expression of SL receptors from the parasitic plant Striga hermonthica in the presence of SLs circumvents the GA requirement for germination of Arabidopsis thaliana seed. Striga receptors co-opt and enhance signalling through the HYPOSENSITIVE TO LIGHT/KARRIKIN INSENSITIVE 2 (AtHTL/KAI2) pathway, which normally plays a rudimentary role in Arabidopsis seed germination4,5. AtHTL/KAI2 negatively controls the SUPPRESSOR OF MAX2 1 (SMAX1) protein5, and loss of SMAX1 function allows germination in the presence of DELLA repressors. Our data suggest that ligand-dependent inactivation of SMAX1 in Striga and Arabidopsis can bypass GA-dependent germination in these species.

Electrocatalytic reactions are known to take place at the catalyst/electrolyte interface. Whereas recent studies of size-dependent activity in nanoparticles and thickness-dependent activity of thin films imply that the sub-surface layers of a catalyst can contribute to the catalytic activity as well, most of these studies consider actual modification of the surfaces. In this study, the role of catalytically active sub-surface layers was investigated by employing atomic-scale thickness control of the La

Supplemental Digital Content is Available in the Text., BACKGROUND Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are commonly used in treating facial wrinkles and folds but have not been studied with standardized methodology to include assessment of standard facial expressions. OBJECTIVE To assess perceived naturalness of facial expression after treatment with 2 HA fillers manufactured with XpresHAn Technology (also known as Optimal Balance Technology). MATERIALS AND METHODS Treatment was directed to the nasolabial folds (NLFs) and at least 1 additional lower face wrinkle or fold. Maintenance of naturalness, attractiveness, and age at 1 month after optimal treatment were assessed using video recordings and photographs capturing different facial animations. Global aesthetic improvement, subjects' satisfaction, and safety were also evaluated. RESULTS The treatment was well tolerated. Naturalness of facial expression in motion was determined to be at least maintained in 95% of subjects. Attractiveness was enhanced in 89% of subjects and 79% of subjects were considered to look younger. Most subjects assessed their aesthetic appearance as improved and were satisfied with their treatment. CONCLUSION Naturalness and attractiveness can be assessed using video recordings and photographs capturing different facial animations. XpresHAn Technology HA filler treatments create natural-looking results with high subject satisfaction.

Electrocatalytic reactions are known to take place at the catalyst/electrolyte interface. Whereas recent studies of size-dependent activity in nanoparticles and thickness-dependent activity of thin films imply that the sub-surface layers of a catalyst can contribute to the catalytic activity as well, most of these studies consider actual modification of the surfaces. In this study, the role of catalytically active sub-surface layers was investigated by employing atomic-scale thickness control of the La0.7 Sr0.3 MnO3 (LSMO) films and heterostructures, without altering the catalyst/electrolyte interface. The activity toward the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) shows a non-monotonic thickness dependence in the LSMO films and a continuous screening effect in LSMO/SrRuO3 heterostructures. The observation leads to the definition of an "electrochemically-relevant depth" on the order of 10 unit cells. This study on the electrocatalytic activity of epitaxial heterostructures provides new insight in designing efficient electrocatalytic nanomaterials and core-shell architectures.

Failure of first course of indomethacin (FCI) for patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) treatment in preterm neonates often prompts clinicians to consider a second course (SCI).To identify factors including baseline characteristics and response to FCI that are associated with non-response to SCI for PDA treatment in preterm neonates.In this retrospective observational study, neonates ≤32 weeks admitted to a tertiary NICU over 5 years who received two indomethacin courses for PDA treatment were reviewed. Only neonates with echocardiograms (ECHO) immediately before and after receipt of each indomethacin course were included. Primary outcome was non-response to SCI. Baseline characteristics and response to FCI were compared between responders and non-responders of SCI.Of the 98 neonates enrolled, 47 (48%) had non-response to SCI. Of them, 27 patients (57%) had prior non-response to FCI, while of the 51 neonates who responded to SCI, 24 neonates (47%) had prior non-response to FCI. The adjusted risk of non-response to SCI in patients who had non-response to FCI was 37% higher (relative risk = 1.37, 95%CI: 0.87-1.80; p = .07) compared to those who had response to FCI. Multivariable analysis showed that increasing gestational age (AOR: 1.6, 95%CI: 1.1-2.3, p = .03) was associated with a higher odds of non-response to SCI while the odds of non-response to SCI increased by 90% in patients with non-response to FCI (AOR: 1.9, 95%CI: 0.8-4.5; p = .15) compared to those with success of FCI, although no statistical significance was observed.Advanced gestational age was the predictor of non-response to SCI in preterm neonates.

Factors contributing to chronic postoperative pain (CPOP) are poorly defined in young people and developmental considerations are poorly understood. With over 5 million children undergoing surgery yearly and 25% of adults referred to chronic pain clinics identifying surgery as the antecedent, there is a need to elucidate factors that contribute to CPOP in surgical patients. The present study includes patients undergoing hip preservation surgery at a children’s hospital. The HOOS and SF-12 Health Survey were administered to 614 pre-surgical patients with 421 patients completing follow-up (6-months, 1-year and 2-years post-surgery). Pain, quality of life, and functioning across time were examined for each group within the population. A three trajectory model (low pain, pain improvement and high pain) emerged indicating three categories of treatment responders. Pain trajectory groups did not differ significantly on gender, pre-surgical age, BMI, prior hip surgery, surgical type, joint congruence or Tönnis grade. The groups differed significantly from each other on pre-surgical pain, pain chronicity, quality of life and functioning. Those in the high pain and pain improvement groups endorsed having pre-surgical depression at significantly higher rates and lower pre-surgical quality of life compared to those in the low pain group (P < 0.01). Those in the high pain group reported significantly worse pre-surgical functioning compared to those in the pain improvement (P < 0.0001) and low pain groups (P < 0.0001).The results demonstrate the need for preoperative screening prior to hip preservation surgery, as there may be a subset of patients who are predisposed to chronic pain independent of hip health.

In order to motivate indigenous learners to learn science and instil their positive attitude towards the subject, conducive and simulative learning environment need to be specifically designed for them. This research is aimed to determine the effect of Kayeu Learning Outside the Classroom (LOC) primary science module on intrinsic motivation of indigenous learners. The treatment group (n=38) used the Kayeu LOC primary science module while the control group (n=35) used the conventional module, which are materials mandated by Ministry of Education (MOE). Three-point Likert scale intrinsic motivation questionnaire consisting of general and science constructs was administered before and after T&L to both groups. Analysis of MANOVA repeated measures showed there were no significant effects of the groups and time on the intrinsic motivation, and there was no significant interaction effect between time and the groups on intrinsic motivation. However, follow-up simple interaction analysis found that there is a significant main effect of the time and significant effect of interactions between time and the groups on the general construct. Key words: indigenous learners, intrinsic motivation, Learning Outside the Classroom (LOC), primary science, teaching module.

Background: The internet has become an indispensable tool for communication, academic research, information and entertainment. However, heavy users of the internet lead to less confidence in social skills and the tendency to be isolated. The study aimed to assess the pattern of internet use and factors affecting problematic internet use among university students.Methods: This cross-sectional study conducted among the students of a university in Sarawak, Malaysia. A multistage cluster sampling technique was adapted to select the participants. Data were collected from 463 students by self-administered questionnaire. Hierarchical binary logistic regression analysis was done to determine the potential factors for problematic internet use.Results: The mean age of the students was 22 years, with a standard deviation of 1.6 years. Two-fifths (61.8%) of the students had no problematic internet use. However, 35.4% had moderate and 2.8% had severe problematic internet use. Hierarchical binary logistic regression analysis found that age of the students, year of study, duration of daily internet use and use of social networking like Skype appeared to be potential predictors of problematic internet use (p

The lack of research on concrete which utilizes Palm Oil Fuel Ash (POFA), Rice Husk Ash (RHA), Recycled Concrete Aggregate (RCA) and Palm Oil Fiber (POF) simultaneously in concrete was globally observed. To meet this gap, a study on green concrete consisting of POFA, RHA and RCA with added untreated POF as binders was conducted. The study focusses on the effect of varying percentages of untreated POF, ranging from 0%, 0.25%, 0.50% and 0.75%, to the strength properties and fracture energy of green concrete. The strength properties of green concrete were investigated by conducting the compression strength test and tensile strength test on forty-eight (48) cubes and cylinders at the curing age of 7 and 28 days. The tests show that the strength of green concrete decreases, as the percentage of POF increases. This was preceded by the establishment of an optimum percentage of POF at 0.25%. The fracture energy of the green concrete was determined by testing twelve numbers of notched beams with dimensions of 100mm x 100mm x 500mm under the three-point bending test. From the three-point bending test, the load-deflection profile for each specimen with different percentages of untreated POF was obtained. Three existing theoretical models, namely Hillerborg, Bazant and CEB models were used to measure the fracture energy of the green concrete with varying percentage of fiber. Results range from 37.94 N/m to 153.81 N/m was observed. The study also successfully established the reliability of Hillerborg’s model to fracture energy when models by Bazant and CEB surprisingly shows a decrease in fracture energy measurements with increase in fiber content.

The cognitive impairment caused by Alzheimer's disease (AD) is associated with beta-amyloid (Aβ) and tau proteins, and is accompanied by inflammation. Recently, a novel inflammasome signaling pathway has been uncovered. Inflammasomes are implicated in the execution of inflammatory responses and pyroptotic death leading to neurodegeneration. Thus, the inflammasome signaling pathway could be a potential therapeutic target for AD. Neural stem cells (NSCs) are multipotent cells that can self-renew and differentiate into distinct neural cells. NSC therapy has been considered to be a promising therapeutic approach in protecting the central nervous system and restoring it following damage. However, the mechanisms involved remain unclear. The aims of this study were to investigate the protective effects of NE4C neural stem cells against microglia-mediated neurotoxicity and to explore molecular mechanisms mediating their actions. NE4C decreased the levels of caspase-1 and IL-1β, and attenuated the level of the NLRP3 inflammasome and its associated protein adapter, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a C-terminal caspase recruitment domain (ASC) in LPS-stimulated BV2 microglial cells, possibly by regulating the phosphorylation of p38α MAPK. The conditioned media obtained from co-culture of LPS-stimulated BV2 and NE4C cells exhibited protective effects on SH-SY5Y cells against microglia-mediated neurotoxicity; this was associated with an attenuation of tau phosphorylation and amyloidogenesis and accompanied by down-regulation of GSK-3β and p38α MAPK signalling pathways. In conclusion, the present study suggested that NSC therapy could be a potential strategy against microglia-mediated neurotoxicity. NSCs regulate NLRP3 activation and IL-1β secretion, which are critical in the initiation of the inflammatory responses, hence preventing the release of neurotoxic pro-inflammatory factors by microglia. This eventually reduces tau hyperphosphylation and amyloidogenesis, possibly through the regulation of GSK-3β and p38α MAPK signalling pathways, and thus protects SH-SY5Y cells against microglia-mediated neurotoxicity.

Background: \ud \ud Epidemiological studies in patients with neuropathic pain demonstrate a strong association with psychiatric conditions such as anxiety; however, the precipitating pathology between these symptoms remains unclear. To investigate this, we studied the effects of lifelong stress on levels of neuropathic pain–like behavior and conversely, the effects of chronic neuropathic injury on anxiety-like status in male and female mice. In addition, we assayed this link in painful and painless diabetic peripheral neuropathy patients.\ud \ud \ud Methods: \ud \ud Male and female mice were subject to ongoing life-stress or control living conditions. Baseline sensitivity and anxiety tests were measured followed by spared nerve injury (SNI) to the sciatic nerve. Subsequent sensory testing occurred until 3 weeks after SNI followed by anxiety tests between 4 and 6 weeks after SNI.\ud \ud \ud Results: \ud \ud Levels of tactile or cold allodynia did not differ between adult mice subject to lifelong chronic stress, relative to nonstressed controls, for at least 3 weeks after SNI. By contrast, longer-term neuropathic mice of both sexes displayed pronounced anxiety-like behavior, regardless of exposure to stress. If sex differences were present, females usually exhibited more pronounced anxiety-like behavior. These ongoing anxiety behaviors were corroborated with plasma corticosterone levels in distinct animal groups. In addition, data from patients with painful and nonpainful diabetic neuropathy showed a clear relationship between ongoing pain and anxiety, with females generally more affected than males.\ud \ud \ud Discussion: \ud \ud Taken together, these data demonstrate a strong link between chronic neuropathic pain and chronic anxiety, with the driver of this comorbidity being neuropathic pain as opposed to on-going stress.

As indoor horticulture gathers momentum, electric (also termed artificial) lighting systems with the ability to generate specific and tunable wavelengths have been developed and applied. While the effects of light quality on plant growth and development have been studied, authoritative and reliable sets of light formulae tailored for the cultivation of economically important plants and plant traits are lacking as light qualities employed across laboratories are inconsistent. This is due, at least in part, to the lack of molecular data for plants examined under electric lights in indoor environments. It has hampered progress in the field of indoor horticulture, in particular, the transition from small-scale indoor farming to commercial plant factories. Here, we review the effects of light quality on model and crop plants studied from a physiological, physical and biochemical perspective, and explain how functional genomics can be employed in tandem to generate a wealth of molecular data specific for plants cultivated under indoor lighting. We also review the current state of lighting technologies in indoor horticulture specifically discussing how recent narrow-bandwidth lighting technologies can be tailored to cultivate economically valuable plant species and traits. Knowledge gained from a complementary phenotypic and functional genomics approach can be harvested not only for economical gains but also for sustainable food production. We believe that this review serves as a platform that guides future light-related plant research., Indoor horticulture: Lighting the way to sustainability Tailored multidisciplinary approaches to hone sustainable indoor horticulture could significantly improve plant yields and crop quality. Advances in artificial lighting systems could transform commercial-scale indoor horticulture, but the current technology is limited by a lack of molecular data for plants grown under such lighting schemes. Aloysius Wong at Wenzhou-Kean University in Wenzhou, China, and co-workers reviewed research into the effects of light quality and differing wavelengths on plant growth. The team advocate the use of plant type-specific and functional genomics studies to examine light-determined molecular traits and associated gene expression. These could be used to build an extensive catalog of light qualities that enhance indoor crop yields and quality. Combining LED lights of different colors and wavelengths shows promise, and the researchers highlight the potential of tunable narrow wavelength lights, such as lasers.

Background A goal of Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs (ASP) is to optimize antimicrobial use; many using audit and feedback (AAF). Although AAF decreases unnecessary target antimicrobial use, it is resource-intensive. As a result, temporary suspensions in AAF activity may occur from human resource limitations or other factors. We describe the impact of these temporary suspensions and intensity of care on antimicrobial utilization trends. Methods This retrospective study describes the initiation and temporary suspensions of AAF in the General Internal Medicine (GIM) unit at an urban teaching hospital. Data were collected over 65 months. During active-AAF, a dedicated ID trained clinical pharmacist and ID physician-reviewed antimicrobial use for all GIM patients and provided patient-specific advice to physicians. Antimicrobial use was measured by Defined Daily Doses (DDD) normalized per 1,000 patient-days. To assess the impact of temporary suspensions, data were compared in two ways: 1. All nonactive-AAF time-frames were compared with active AAF 2. Pre-ASP was compared with Post-ASP Initiation which includes suspension periods. To determine whether differences in trends were seen based on acuity level of the patients (identified at admission as benefiting from frequent monitoring), analyses were repeated after stratification of patients admitted to the Step-Up unit (GIM-SU) and the regular ward (GIM-W). Results Comparing nonactive AAF vs. active-AAF, significant changes (P < 0.05) in mean normalized DDD were observed for total antimicrobials (-19%), antipseudomonals (-21%) fluoroquinolones (−41%) and first-generation β lactams (−30%). Pre ASP vs. Post ASP comparisons showed similar but less pronounced trends. Following stratification to GIM-SU and GIM-W, greater variation in significant changes to targeted antimicrobials between comparisons was observed. Different significant antimicrobial changes were seen in SU vs. W. Conclusion Our results show that the temporary suspension of ASP AAF impacts antimicrobial utilization trends. Greater sustained decreases in targeted antimicrobials utilization were associated with active AAF. Stratification by patient acuity lead to increased variation in the impact on target antimicrobials and increased the impact of suspension. Disclosures All authors: No reported disclosures.

With lab-scale solution-processed thin fi lm photovoltaic (TFPV) devices attaining market relevant effi ciencies, the demand for environmentally friendly and scalable deposition techniques is increasing. Replacing toxic halogenated solvents is a priority for the industrialization of solution-processed TFPV. In this work, a generalized fi ve-step process is presented for fabricating high-performance devices from nonhalogenated inks. Resulting from this process, several new solvent systems are introduced based on thiophene, tetralin, 1,2,4-trimethylbenzene, o -xylene, and anisole for blade coating of three different diketopyrrolopyrrole-based (pDPP5T-2, pPDPP5T-2S, and P390) bulk heterojunctions applied in organic photovoltaic devices. Devices based on pDPP5T-2S and P390 attain 5.6% and 6.1% effi ciency, respectively, greater than the effi ciency either material reached when processed from the halogenated solvent system commonly used. These processes are implemented without post-deposition annealing treatments or additives. The Hansen solubility parameters of the pDPP5T-2 material are obtained, and are used, along with wettability data on a variety of substrates, to determine optimum solvent combinations and ratios for deposition. This generalized fi ve-step process results in new nonhalogenated solvent pathways for the scalable deposition of thin fi lm photovoltaic materials.

Ultrasonic spray coating was tailored for the deposition of diketopyrrolopyrrole-based polymer: fullerene films. Concurrently pumped spray coating was used to rapidly and precisely sweep photoactive layer thickness and donor:acceptor ratio. The highest reported efficiency for a spray-coated device of 6.5% was achieved and verified by external quantum efficiency. The short-circuit current density of the complete device stack was optically simulated as a function of thickness, agreeing with experimentally measured device performance. Charge carrier mobilities were studied as a function of fullerene loading, suggesting electron mobility limited performance. This paper shows that implementing the industrially relevant deposition technique of spray coating results in no performance loss relative to lab-based spin coating.

Workplace expectations andscenarios in this 21st century require human capitals who are equipped withcompetencies to embark in the STEM related careers. Therefore, marginalizedchildren need to be prepared and upgrade themselves. Analytical scrutiny of marginalizedchildren talent development often found low self-concept as the most importantfactor which inhibit their learning development. It is argued that effort toenhance self-concept among marginalized learners must be revolved around theirsurroundings. Conducive and meaningful learning environment need to be craftydesigned to suit their needs and tendencies. In this study, self-concept coversevaluative appraisal of oneself in both the academic and non-academic aspects.This study is aimed to determine the effect of Learning Outside the Classroom(LOC) primary science module towards enhancing self-concept among marginalizedlearners’ in Malaysia. By employing a quasi-experimental with pre-testpost-test, nonequivalent control group research design, a total of some 73primary school marginalized learners were involved in the study. The treatmentgroup used LOC primary science module while the control group experiencedlearning using conventional module prepared by the Ministry of Education. Inthe treatment group, teaching and learning processes occurred outside theclassroom using particularly flora and fauna within their surroundings.Self-concept was evaluated using Self Descriptive Questionnaire (SDQ). Dataobtained were analyzed using MANOVA repeated measures. Analysis of findingslead to inference that there was a significant main effect of group in shapingthe children’s self-concept. This study concludes that LOC modules, which carryin itself meaningful and fun science learning experiences has successfullydeveloped marginalized children self-concept. It is then suggested that similarlearning modules as developed in this study, be developed across other themesas envisaged in the science primary curriculum for marginalized children.&nbsp

The demand for a human capital workforce based on knowledge has been rising in the 21st century. Given the low level of scientific literacy and the large gap between marginalized and mainstream students, the purpose of this study is to determine the impact of Learning Outside the Classroom (LOC) approach in cultivating scientific literacy among marginalized students in remote Sarawak, Malaysia. The LOC module was designed based on constructivist, contextual and behaviourist learning theories. This study employed quasi-experimental with pre-test post-test, non-equivalent control group research design. The treatment group experienced learning with the LOC module while the control group was taught using conventional methods. In the treatment group, teaching and learning (T&L) processes occurred outside the classroom using learning materials from their surroundings. Students are required to work together in groups to carry out investigative activities. Through this study, marginalized students are able to learn science in the context of the real world and realize the application of scientific concepts in their daily lives experiences. It is hypothesized that this approach will stimulate meaningful learning that will significantly lead towards increased level of scientific literacy skills among marginalized students and hence equipped them with necessary knowledge to face challenges in the 21st century.

Human norovirus (NoV) research greatly relies on cell culture-propagable surrogate caliciviruses, including murine NoVs and the prototype ‘recovirus’ (ReCV), Tulane virus. However, the extreme biological diversity of human NoVs cannot be modelled by a uniform group of viruses or single isolate. Based on a diverse group of recently described ReCVs, a more advanced model reflecting human NoV biological diversity is currently under development. Here, we have reported the genotypic and serotypic relationships among 10 G1 ReCV isolates, including Tulane virus and nine other recent cell culture-adapted strains. Based on the amino acid sequences of virus capsid protein, VP1, and classification constraints established for NoVs, G1 ReCVs were separated into three genotypes, with variable organization of the three open reading frames. Interestingly, cross-neutralization plaque assays revealed the existence of four distinct serotypes, two of which were detected among the G1.2 strains. The amino acid (aa) difference between the two G1.2 ReCV serotypes (12%) was less than the minimum 13 % difference established between NoV genotypes. Interestingly, one of the G1.3 ReCVs was equally neutralized by antisera raised against the G1.3 (6 % aa difference) and G1.1 (25 % aa difference) representative strains. These results imply the existence of a large number of human NoV serotypes, but also shared cross-neutralization epitopes between some strains of different genotypes. In conclusion, the newly developed ReCV surrogate model can be applied to address biologically relevant questions pertaining to enteric CV diversity.

Background Different volumes of 0.9% NaCl may be used to reconstitute abobotulinumtoxinA yielding an injection volume that ranges from 0.05 to 0.1 mL per injection point for treatment of glabellar lines. Objective To evaluate the efficacy, safety, and subject satisfaction of 2 different injection volumes to deliver the same unit dose of abobotulinumtoxinA for treatment of glabellar lines. Materials and methods This randomized comparative study was conducted using 2 different reconstitution volumes to deliver a fixed unit dose of 10 Speywood units (sU) of abobotulinumtoxinA in either 0.05 mL (labeled volume) or 0.1 mL (twofold volume) per injection point. Evaluations included wrinkle severity, neurophysiological assessment by compound muscle action potential (CMAP), and subject satisfaction. Results Use of either injection volume of abobotulinumtoxinA resulted in the early onset of effect, high effectiveness, and long duration of effect. The safety profile and injection pain levels were similar in both groups. The twofold injection volume was shown to be noninferior to the labeled injection volume based on CMAP results. Conclusion A twofold increase in injection volume to 0.1 mL per injection point to deliver 10 sU of abobotulinumtoxinA is effective and safe.

Accurately determining energy requirements is key for nutritional management of pediatric obesity. Recently, a portable handheld indirect calorimeter, MedGem (MG) has become available to measure resting energy expenditure (REE). Our work aims to determine the clinical validity and usefulness of MG to measure REE in overweight and obese adolescents. Thirty-nine overweight and obese adolescents (16 male (M): 23 female (F), 15.2 ± 1.9 y, BMI percentile: 98.6 ± 2.2%) and 15 normal weight adolescents (7M: 8F, age 15.2 ± 2.0 y, BMI percentile: 39.2 ± 20.9%) participated. REE was measured with both MG and standard indirect calorimeter (VMax) in random order. MG REE (1,600 ± 372 kcal/d) was lower than VMax REE (1,727 ± 327 kcal/) in the overweight and obese adolescents. Bland Altman analysis (MG –VMax) showed a mean bias of −127 kcal/d (95% CI = −72 to −182 kcal/d, P < 0.001), and a proportional bias existed such that lower measured REE by VMax was underestimated by MG, and higher measured REE by VMax were overestimated by MG. MG systematically underestimates REE in the overweight and adolescent population, thus the MG portable indirect calorimeter is not recommended for routine use. Considering that it is a systematic underestimation of REE, MG may be clinically acceptable, only if used with caution.

Passive air samplers (PAS) are simple and cost-effective tools to monitor semivolatile organic compounds in air. Chemical uptake occurs by molecular diffusion from ambient air to a passive sampling medium (PSM). Previous calibration studies indicate that even for the same type of PAS, passive air sampling rates (R, m(3)(air)/d) can be highly variable due to the influence of a number of factors. Earlier studies mainly focused on factors (e.g., wind speed and temperature) influencing R via the kinetic resistance posed by the air boundary layer surrounding the PSM because that layer was deemed to be the main factor determining the uptake kinetics. Whereas recent calibration studies suggest that the PAS configuration can influence R, so far few studies have specifically focused on this factor. In this study, with the objective to understand the effect of PAS configurations on R, we applied a gravimetrical approach to study the kinetics of water vapor uptake from indoor air by silica gel placed inside cylindrical PAS of various configurations. We also conducted an indoor calibration for polychlorinated biphenyls on the same type of PAS using XAD-resin as the PSM. R was found to be proportional to the interfacial transfer area of the PSM but not the amount of the PSM because chemicals mainly accumulated in the outer layer of the PSM during the deployment time of the PAS. The sampler housing and the PSM can introduce kinetic resistance to chemical uptake as indicated by changes in R caused by positioning the PSM at different distances from the opening of the sampler housing and by using PSM of different diameters. Information gained from this study is useful for optimizing the PAS design with the objective to reduce the material and shipping costs without sacrificing sampling efficiency.

Research on better methods to digitally represent microscopic specimens has increased over recent decades. Opaque specimens, such as microfossils and metallurgic specimens, are often viewed using reflected light microscopy. Existing 3D surface estimation techniques for reflected light microscopy do not model reflectance, restricting the representation to only one illumination condition and making them an imperfect recreation of the experience of using an actual microscope. This paper introduces a virtual reflected-light microscopy (VRLM) system that estimates both shape and reflectance from a set of specimen images. When coupled with anaglyph creation, the system can depict both depth information and illumination cues under any desired lighting configuration. Digital representations are compact and easily viewed in an online setting. A prototype used to construct VRLM representations is comprised only of a microscope, a digital camera, a motorized stage and software. Such a system automatically acquires VRLM representations of large batches of specimens. VRLM representations are then disseminated in an interactive online environment, which allows users to change the virtual light source direction and type. Experiments demonstrate high quality VRLM representations of 500 microfossils.

Protocolized sedation (PS) and daily sedative interruption (DI) in critically ill patients have both been shown to shorten the durations of mechanical ventilation (MV) and intensive care unit (ICU) stay. Our objective was to determine the safety and feasibility of a randomized trial to determine whether adults managed with both PS + DI have a shorter duration of MV than patients managed with PS alone.Prospective randomized, concealed, unblinded, multicenter, pilot trial.Three university-affiliated medical-surgical ICUs.Sixty-five adults anticipated to require MV48 hrs and receiving sedative/analgesic infusions.Patients were randomized to PS alone, or PS + DI. PS was implemented by bedside nurses; sedatives/analgesics were titrated to achieve Sedation Agitation Score (SAS) 3-4. The PS + DI group also had infusions interrupted daily until the patients awoke.Diagnosis, age [mean +/- SD] (53 +/- 18.3 vs. 62.1 +/- 16.7 yrs) and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (27.7 +/- 8.4 vs. 26.6 +/- 8.4) were similar in the PS and PS + DI groups, respectively. The median duration of MV in the PS and PS + DI groups was 8.0 vs. 10.5 days, and ICU stay was 10.0 vs. 13.0 days, respectively. The SAS was within target range (3-4) in 59% of 9,611 measurements, and within an acceptable range (2-5) in 86% of measurements. Self-assessed nursing and respiratory therapist workload was low in the majority of the cohort. Adverse events were similar in both groups. Patient recruitment was slower than projected (1.5 patients/mo).This pilot trial comparing PS vs. PS + DI confirmed the safety and acceptability of the sedation protocol and DI, and guided important modifications to the protocol, thus enhancing the feasibility of a future multicenter trial. This trial was not designed to detect small but significant differences in clinically important outcomes.

The need for scalable and environmentally friendly deposition of organic semiconductors is mounting, as lab-scale solution processed organic photovoltaic (OPV) devices have been certified with 10.8% efficiency. The replacement of toxic halogenated solvents is a priority in the commercialization of solution processed OPV. Here we introduce several solvent systems based on thiophene, tetraline, 1,2,4-trimethylbenzene, xylene, and anisole for the blade coating of diketopyrrolopyrrole-based polymer: fullerene OPV devices. These devices attain 6.1% efficiency, greater than the commonly used chloroform:ortho-dichlorobenzene solvent systems for the same polymers, and without involving the post-deposition annealing treatments nor additives typically implemented for non-halogenated inks. Furthermore, the solubility of the material was investigated with Hansen Solubility Parameters, and coatability on a variety of substrates was probed via contact angle measurements. This work enables a new non-halogenated solvent route for the scalable fabrication of organic electronics.

Marine microfossils provide a useful record of the Earth's resources and prehistory via biostratigraphy. To study Hydrocarbon reservoirs and prehistoric climate, geoscientists visually identify the species of microfossils found in core samples. Because microfossil identification is labour intensive, automation has been investigated since the 1980s. With the initial rule-based systems, users still had to examine each specimen under a microscope. While artificial neural network systems showed more promise for reducing expert labour, they also did not displace manual identification for a variety of reasons, which we aim to overcome. In our human-based computation approach, the most difficult step, namely taxon identification is outsourced via a frontend website to human volunteers. A backend algorithm, called dynamic hierarchical identification, uses unsupervised, supervised, and dynamic learning to accelerate microfossil identification. Unsupervised learning clusters specimens so that volunteers need not identify every specimen during supervised learning. Dynamic learning means interim computation outputs prioritize subsequent human inputs. Using a dataset of microfossils identified by an expert, we evaluated correct and incorrect genus and species rates versus simulated time, where each specimen identification defines a moment. The proposed algorithm accelerated microfossil identification effectively, especially compared to benchmark results obtained using a k-nearest neighbour method.

Objectives:To characterize the perceived utilization of sedative, analgesic, and neuromuscular blocking agents, the use of sedation scales, algorithms, and daily sedative interruption in mechanically ventilated adults, and to define clinical factors that influence these practices.Design:Cross-sectio

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To investigate recovirus infections and their association with zoonosis, the prevalence of the virus-neutralizing antibody against three recovirus serotypes was tested in the general population and in zookeepers. Neutralizing antibodies were detected in a significantly higher number of zookeepers than in the general population but with significantly lower titers than in macaques.

New anti-cancer agents are being developed that specifically recognise tumour cells. Recognition is dependent upon the enhanced expression of antigenic determinants on the surface of tumour cells. The tumour exposure and the extracellular accessibility of the mucin MUC-1 make this marker a suitable target for tumour diagnosis and therapy. We isolated and characterised six human scFv antibody fragments that bound to the MUC-1 core protein, by selecting a large naive human phage display library directly on a MUC-1-expressing breast carcinoma cell line. Their binding characteristics have been studied by ELISA, FACS and indirect immunofluorescence. The human scFv antibody fragments were specific for the tandem repeat region of MUC-1 and their binding is inhibited by soluble antigen. Four human scFv antibody fragments (M2, M3, M8, M12) recognised the hydrophilic PDTRP region of the MUC-1 core protein, which is thought to be an immunodominant region. The human scFv antibody fragments were stable in human serum at 37 degrees C and retained their binding specificity. For imaging or targeting to tumours over-expressing MUC-1, it might be feasible to use these human scFv, or multivalent derivatives, as vehicles to deliver anti-cancer agents.

Single chain Fv antibody fragments (scFv) binding to purified Helicobacter pylori urease were selected from a nonimmune human antibody repertoire displayed on filamentous phage. Aft

Current means of measuring RT-induced fibrosis are subjective. We evaluated the DermaLab suction cup system to measure objectively skin deflection as a surrogate for fibrosis. Sixty-nine patients with E-STS were treated with limb-sparing surgery and 50-66 Grays (Gy) of RT. Using a "scleroderma" DermaLab Suction Cup, the skin stiffness was measured by two clinicians. The National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (NCI-CTCAE) scale, the Musculoskeletal Tumor Rating Scale (MSTS) and Toronto Extremity Salvage Score (TESS) questionnaires were completed for each patient. Levels of agreement between measurers were estimated using the Kappa (k) coefficient and the concordance correlation coefficient (CCC). All sixty-nine patients were included. The level of agreement between measurers for NCI-CTCAE grading was moderate (range k = 0.41-0.59). The CCC for the elasticity measurements were higher, with CCC = 0.82 for fibrotic skin and CCC 5 0.84 for normal skin. The elasticity measurements were significantly higher when MSTS scores were

Users are increasingly empowered to produce visual content by a proliferation of online tools to create, publish and share within online communities and social networks. Despite advancements in web browser and image processing, the act of animation building is still considered a solitary activity. A design challenge: Can animation building become accessible to a general audience if it becomes a social activity? Volley is a concept design for a web application that enables users to collectively share, edit, and animate images. We created a design framework for an online community and animation tool that supports meaningful social collaborations and desirable, new animated works.