University System of Ohio

OBJECTIVE: Eating disorders (EDs) and social anxiety disorder (SAD) are highly co-occurring. This comorbidity is extremely relevant, given that individuals with comorbid ED-SAD are less likely to seek and/or benefit from ED treatment. METHOD: We used network analysis to conceptualize ED-SAD comorbidity in a sample of 2,215 participants with a primary diagnosis of ED, SAD, or no known diagnosis. We used novel network analyses methods to select symptoms for our models, identify potential illness pathways (i.e., bridge symptoms) between disorders and underlying vulnerabilities (e.g., perfectionism, social appearance anxiety), and to compare across sample types (e.g., clinical vs. nonclinical). We also tested several novel network analyses methods aimed at the following methodological concerns: (a) topological concerns (i.e., which items should be included in NA models), (b) how to use empirical indices to quantify bridge symptoms and (c) what differences in networks across samples mean. RESULTS: We found that difficulty with drinking beverages and eating in public were bridge symptoms between ED and SAD. We also found that feeling nervous about one's appearance was a bridge symptom. CONCLUSIONS: We identified public eating and drinking as bridge symptoms between EDs and SAD. Future research is needed to test if interventions focused on public eating and drinking might decrease symptoms of both EDs and SAD. Researchers can use this study (code provided) as an exemplar for how to use network analysis, as well as to use network analysis to conceptualize ED comorbidity and compare network structure and density across samples.

Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease involving the accumulation of macrophages in the intima. Wnt5a is a noncanonical member of the Wnt family of secreted glycoproteins. Recently, human macrophages have been shown to express Wnt5a upon stimulation with bacterial pathogens in vitro and in granulomatous lesions in the lung of Mycobacterium tuberculosis-infected patients. Wnt5a expression has also been liked to Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR-4), an innate immune receptor implicated in atherosclerosis. These observations, along with the fact that Wnt5a is involved in cell migration and proliferation, led us to postulate that Wnt5a plays a role in atherosclerosis. To investigate this hypothesis, we characterized Wnt5a expression in murine and human atherosclerotic lesions. Tissue sections derived from the aortic sinus to the aortic arch of apolipoprotein E-deficient mice and sections derived from the carotid arteries of patients undergoing endarterectomy were subjected to immunohistochemical analysis. All samples were found to be positive for Wnt5a with predominant staining in the areas of macrophage accumulation within the intima. In parallel, we probed for the presence of TLR-4 and found coincident TLR-4 and Wnt5a expression. For both the Wnt5a and TLR-4 staining, consecutive tissue sections treated with an isotype- and species-matched Ig served as a negative control and exhibited little, if any, reactivity. Quantitative RT-PCR revealed that Wnt5a mRNA expression in RAW264.7 murine macrophages can be induced by stimulation with LPS, a known ligand for TLR-4. Combined, these findings demonstrate for the first time Wnt5a expression in human and murine atherosclerotic lesions and suggest that cross talk between TLR-4 and Wnt5a is operative in atherosclerosis.

This paper explores the effects of allowing large, price-responsive consumers to provide reserves in a power system with significant penetration of wind energy. A bilevel optimization model represents the utility maximization problem of a large consumer, subject to a stochastic day-ahead co-optimization of energy and reserves that a system operator would solve to clear the market while considering wind power uncertainty. An examination of the market outcomes from both an illustrative and a large-scale study using this model allows analysis of a) the effects of the type of behavior of the large consumer (i.e., strategic vs competitive), b) limits on the amount of reserves it is allowed to provide, and c) variability and accuracy of characterization of wind power uncertainty.

OBJECTIVE: Haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) are life-threatening systemic hyperinflammatory syndromes that can develop in most inflammatory contexts. They can progress rapidly, and early identification and management are critical for preventing organ failure and mortality. This effort aimed to develop evidence-based and consensus-based points to consider to assist clinicians in optimising decision-making in the early stages of diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of HLH/MAS. METHODS: A multinational, multidisciplinary task force of physician experts, including adult and paediatric rheumatologists, haematologist/oncologists, immunologists, infectious disease specialists, intensivists, allied healthcare professionals and patients/parents, formulated relevant research questions and conducted a systematic literature review (SLR). Delphi methodology, informed by SLR results and questionnaires of experts, was used to generate statements aimed at assisting early decision-making and optimising the initial care of patients with HLH/MAS. RESULTS: The task force developed 6 overarching statements and 24 specific points to consider relevant to early recognition of HLH/MAS, diagnostic approaches, initial management and monitoring of HLH/MAS. Major themes included the simultaneous need for prompt syndrome recognition, systematic evaluation of underlying contributors, early intervention targeting both hyperinflammation and likely contributors, careful monitoring for progression/complications and expert multidisciplinary assistance. CONCLUSION: These 2022 EULAR/American College of Rheumatology points to consider provide up-to-date guidance, based on the best available published data and expert opinion. They are meant to help guide the initial evaluation, management and monitoring of patients with HLH/MAS in order to halt disease progression and prevent life-threatening immunopathology.

Abstract One hypothesized reason for why a disproportionately low number of men enter caregiving fields is how such men are perceived. In two studies, drawing upon the Stereotype Content Model and the lack‐of‐fit model, we tested whether men would encounter more social (e.g., likeability bias) and economic (e.g., hiring or job opportunity bias) penalties than women in caregiving professions due to perceptions that men are less warm than women. In all three studies, we created job or employment materials in which the gender of the candidate or employee was manipulated. In Study 1, a female preschool teacher received higher warmth ratings than a male preschool teacher, which in turn predicted preference for the female teacher over the male teacher. In Study 2, a female social worker was rated more highly in warmth and job hireability than a male social worker; warmth also mediated the relationships between gender and both likeability and job hireability. In Study 3, a male preschool teacher was rated lower in warmth, likeability, job hireability, and job suitability than both a female preschool teacher and a preschool teacher with an unspecified gender. There were no differences between perceived competence of men and women in caregiving positions when competence was assessed. Implications for the factors that predict adverse reactions to and penalties against men in caregiving occupations, as well as interventions to combat the potential negative effects of such penalties on men's interest in caregiving careers, are discussed.

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the effects of a social determinants of health (SDH) screening tool and service referral on emergency department (ED) use among patients at a Federally Qualified Health Center primary care clinic. STUDY DESIGN: Quasi-experimental. SAMPLE: Three-hundred and eleven English-speaking patients 18 years and older. MEASURES: The Core 5 SDH screening tool consists of five yes/no items assessing food, housing, utilities, transportation, and safety needs. The number of ED visits 3 months before and after the intervention were collected from electronic health records. INTERVENTION: The research team administered the Core 5 SDH screening tool and if desired, referred patients with an identified need for SDH services. RESULTS: Approximately 43% of patients reported a SDH need with food insecurity most prevalent (62.2%). The number of ED visits was significantly lower 3 months post-intervention compared to 3 months before for the 125 participants who wanted and received the SDH service referral (IRR = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.41, 0.99) and for the 35 participants who reported receiving some/all of the needed services at the 2-week follow-up (IRR = 0.36, 95% CI = 0.17, 0.76). CONCLUSIONS: Addressing patients' SDH needs may reduce ED visits, lower healthcare costs, and ultimately, improve health.

Discusses the authors’ approach to experiential learning in a two‐semester “engineering physics” course at a large metropolitan university in the USA. A student‐centered methodology stressing teamwork while incorporating individual creativity is used in an interdisciplinary course setting. Students practice transferable skills relevant to today’s technological workplace. Discusses the methodology and lessons learned in the context of higher education in the USA and abroad.

Access to different forms of education has become more prevalent in recent years. Online learning design requires innovative pedagogical practices. Dr. Bloomberg provides strategies for online course design, student engagement, andpedagogical methodology.

Abstract The dynamics of institutional power need to be addressed through structural practices that support prospects for authentic, democratic partnerships.

The purpose of this study is to characterize the V pre‐notched specimens with different relative depth ratio and the relative distance ratio by the AE signals in in situ three‐point bending tests. Simultaneously, during the bending process, the V pre‐notched specimen is in situ monitored by the opto‐digital microscope. In order to analyze the depth of V‐notch and the distance between the side V‐notches and the middle V‐notch effect on the specimens, a finite element analysis model is built by ABAQUS. Combining the in situ images, the AE signals and the finite element analysis (FEA) results, it is found that the experiment results are consistent with the FEA results. It is demonstrated that the amplitude of AE signals can effectively characterize the crack initiation, crack growth, and crack fast instability fracture.

SIGNIFICANCE: Delivering personalized three-dimensional (3D)-printed solutions for our patients is easier now than it has ever been. This technological revolution makes things possible that it would be extremely challenging to achieve using traditional approaches. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to increase awareness among the optometric and vision science community of opportunities to apply 3D printing to enhance clinical practice and research. METHODS: A widely available fused deposition modeling 3D printing approach was used to fabricate several plastic items for use in optometric practice and low vision rehabilitation. RESULTS: The authors will share nine optometric extensions of 3D printing: (1) an attachment for glare-acuity testing, (2) a disposable cover paddle to limit infection spread for red-eye visits, (3) ophthalmic equipment repair/modification, (4) ophthalmic lens thickness calipers, (5) NoIR lens filter flipper, (6) Optivisor faceplate, (7) EasyPocket lanyard card holder, (8) dome magnifier handle, and (9) a phoropter near card holder. CONCLUSIONS: Designing customized solutions and problem-solving for our patients and offices are becoming easier to do using 3D printing every year. The possible applications for this technology are constantly being expanded. This technology allows for cost-effective production of solutions, some of which would not be feasible otherwise.

This report is an attempt to integrate some conceptual and methodological divergencies in man-machine system research. A. conceptual format and a procedure for input analysis are proposed which are derived from a cybernetics model. The format is suggested as a means to organize theoretical propositions. Some problems related to real-time simulation as a research method for system research are considered and an approach to methods improvement is discussed.

A novel, laboratory-scale, membrane-based photo bioreactor was used to investigate the feasibility of CO 2 removal from flue gas of coal-fired power plants using the photosynthetic conversion of CO 2 in terms of algal biomass productivity (g m -2 day -1 ). The experiments employed atmospheric CO 2 and CO 2 -enriched air concentrations of 0.5% and 10% under light intensities of 7510 mol m -2 s -1 , with gas and water temperatures of 503 C. An initial mass of thermophilic cyanobacterial was grown on a 2'x1' vertical growth surface for a 16-day period. The culture media flowed vertically down the growth surfaces while a CO 2 -enriched air stream was circulated horizontally across and parallel to the surfaces. The productivities of algal biomass growth in atmospheric CO 2 , 0.5% and 10% CO 2 were approximately 1.20, 1.82, and 1.86 g m -2 day -1 , respectively. The result showed insignificant difference in gained algal biomass between 0.5% and 10% CO 2 .

Telluric currents have been an interesting phenomenon to corrosion engineers for many years due to the engineers’ natural curiosity to know more about this fascinating occurrence that appeared to induce erratic currents and potentials on buried piping. Although there are references in the corrosion literature to “telluric” effects, these effects had not been experimentally substantiated. Many corrosion engineers have observed sporadic changes in pipeline potentials and currents during periods of publicized solar flare activity and sunspots. A peak in the so-called sunspot cycle occurred during the 1957-58 International Geographical Year. A great deal of publicity was given to this peak activity as the U.S.A. and Canada’s defense radio communications went through a complete loss in radio communications in the Northern Hemisphere for a short time due to sunspot effects. Many corrosion engineers reported strange and erratic current flow on pipelines in this same period. (The author had by coincidence set Bristol smoke chart recorders in operation on a 14-in pipeline of the Manufacturers Light and Heat Company in Eastern Pennsylvania and noted erratic variations in line current during this period.)

Background Stem-like progenitor exhausted CD8 + T cells (T PEX ), located within the tumor-draining lymph nodes (TDLNs), are responsible for maintaining tumor-specific responses in cancer. Although cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-15 are known to expand CD8 + T-cell subsets, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β in the TDLN is known to arrest the egress of these T PEX to the tumor microenvironment. We hypothesized that combining IL-15 stimulatory and TGF-β blocking activity would boost antitumor responses mediated by T PEX in the TDLN. Methods We developed a bifunctional TGF-βRII/IL-15 protein complex (HCW9218) and evaluated its antitumor activity in two murine models of melanoma and breast cancer. Peripheral blood, TDLN and tumor-infiltrating CD8 + T cells were characterized by flow cytometry following a single subcutaneous dose (s.c.) of HCW9218. Transcription profiling of CD8 + T cells in both murine models was performed. Synergistic activity of HCW9218 with immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) was evaluated. Finally, safety and immune profiling in patients with chemo-refractory/relapsed solid tumors was performed in a Phase 1 dose-escalating trial. Results HCW9218 was capable of localizing to the TDLNs and tumors after s.c. administration, neutralized TGF-β, expanded T PEX in TDLNs, increased chemokine-expressing effectors in peripheral circulation and promoted their infiltration into murine tumors. These data were corroborated in RNA sequencing analysis of TDLNs. ICIs significantly enhanced the effects of HCW9218 on T PEX and synergistically improved HCW9218 antitumor efficacy in melanoma and reduced spontaneous lung metastasis in breast cancer models. In a Phase 1 clinical trial, HCW9218 monotherapy was well-tolerated, reduced serum TGF-β levels, promoted and sustained CD8 + T-cell expansion in peripheral blood and CD8 + T-cell infiltration in tumor biopsies. Stable disease was reported for four of six subjects (67%) with advanced ovarian cancer treated with HCW9218. Conclusions Our findings demonstrate that combination therapy targeting immune cells critical for antitumor responses and blocking immune-suppressive environment significantly improves antitumor therapeutic efficacy. These findings provide a strong basis for using HCW9218 to enhance the efficacy of ICIs against solid tumors in the clinical setting.

A computer simulation model has been constructed t o represent t h e dynamics of chlorine-36 labelled DDT i n a Lake Erie marsh, An exponent i a l l y decreasing input function (representing release of DDT from t h e granular formulati on i n w h i ch it was appli ed) determi nes concentration i n m t e r , from which one-or two-compartment models represent t h e concent r a t i o n i n various forms of f l o r a and fauna.Observational data on 10 plant speci e s , 6 invertebrates, and 3 vertebrate species were modelled, Five species (a plant, an invertebrate speefes, and t h e 3 vertebrates) were used f o r a food-chain simulation, The overall r e s u l t s generally suggest t h a t simple models, of t h e kind used t o study radionuclide transf e r through food chains, w i l l provide reasonably good representations of t h e behavior of DDT i n food chains, It i s suggested %hat controlled experiments a r e needed t o properly identify t h e components of a model, and t h a t a number of questions about sampling methodology remain unanswered.

This study investigates depot charging capacity planning and charging schedule optimization for heavy-duty electric vehicle fleets, explicitly incorporating grid-aware infrastructure considerations. As fleet electrification expands, uncoordinated charging demand can intensify peak loads, increase electricity costs, and impose additional stress on power systems, underscoring the need for integrated planning approaches. A two-phase optimization framework is proposed that jointly determines depot charging infrastructure capacity and time-dependent charging schedules by accounting for peak demand charges, infrastructure installation costs, and operational expenses, while incorporating temporal fleet usage patterns and grid load conditions. A case study is conducted to evaluate optimal charger capacity portfolios and operational schedules under representative tariff structures. The results demonstrate that coordinated depot charging can substantially reduce peak demand and total system costs, including both infrastructure investment and operating expenses, compared with uncoordinated charging strategies. While scenarios with higher power charging infrastructure lead to increased peak demand charges, these impacts can be effectively mitigated through optimized scheduling. Overall, the findings highlight that grid-aware depot charging planning enhances both cost efficiency and power system resilience, providing quantitative evidence to support infrastructure investment decisions and policy design for large-scale fleet electrification. • Propose a mathematical model for depot charging management with charger sizing. • Demand-side management provides advantages for both the power grid and fleet owners. • Analyzing the effects of charger types on peak demand and total expenses. • Economic analysis shows 21%–53% operational cost savings vs conventional buses. • Lower-rate chargers are cost-effective with optimal charging plans.

Abstract Older adults (aged 65+) and emerging adults (aged 18-29) face vulnerability to two converging crises: social disconnectedness and extreme weather attributable to climate change. These challenges compound each other, creating a cycle of risk. Disconnected communities struggle to respond collectively to extreme weather, increasing the likelihood of harm. Additionally, extreme weather can disrupt social connectivity by altering local environments. While older and emerging adults share vulnerabilities and agency, generational divides hinder cooperation, highlighting the need to build intergenerational capacities and connections. This study employed an intergenerational solidarity framework in Athens County, a rural and underserved area in Appalachian Ohio, to 1) compare older and emerging adults’ experiences of social connectedness and extreme weather, and 2) examine outcomes from intergenerational and intragenerational conversations focused on enhancing social connectedness and extreme weather adaptive capacity. Sixteen older and emerging adult participants engaged in Participatory Photo Mapping from May to September 2024. Data collection included generating photos and spatial maps of social connectedness factors and conducting photo-and-map elicitation interviews and focus groups. Data analysis included iterative thematic and comparative analyses. Older adults’ connectedness assets were closer to home while emerging adults’ assets were dispersed across the county. Older adults were more experienced and confident in handling extreme weather situations. In the intergenerational focus group, participants valued the other generation’s perspectives. Conversely, the intragenerational group showed a mix of curiosity and skepticism about the other generation’s contributions to extreme weather response. Findings highlight significant potential for knowledge exchange and trust-building through participatory intergenerational dialogues.

The outbreak of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) caused by the 2019 novel coronavirus (SASRS-CoV-2) in 2019-2020 had a substantial impact on the healthcare resources of the world community. An organized regional response was essential to saving lives, preserving and distributing health care resources, and coordinating health care efforts. This brief report describes how a long-established regional trauma organization (RTO) provided that coordination in Central, Southeast, and Southeast Central Ohio during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As the United States Department of Defense (DoD) transitions toward Zero-Trust Architecture, the hardware and software supply chain remains a critical vulnerability. Current provenance models rely on centralized, siloed databases that lack the transparency required to counter sophisticated state-sponsored interdiction. This paper proposes a novel framework: AI-Enhanced Trust Graph Analytics over Distributed Ledgers. The architecture utilizes a permissioned Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) substrate to host an immutable record of component lifecycles, anchored by Hardware Roots of Trust (RoT) through Physically Unclonable Functions (PUFs). By mapping silicon fingerprints to Software Bill of Materials (SBOM), the system constructs a multi-dimensional Trust Graph. We employ Graph Neural Networks (GNNs) to detect structural anomalies indicative of subversion, while Federated Learning enables inter-agency intelligence sharing without compromising operational security. Our findings demonstrate that this integrated approach significantly reduces the time to detect compromised assets in air-gapped and tactical environments, providing a strategic roadmap for an autonomous, self-healing supply chain.