bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Neuropilin 1 binds PDGF-D and is a co-receptor in PDGF-D–PDGFRβ signaling
Authors: Muhl Lars , Folestad Erika Bergsten , Gladh Hanna , Wang Yixin , Moessinger Christine , Jakobsson Lars , Eriksson Ulf 
Published: March 2017

ABSTRACT
Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-D is a PDGF receptor β (PDGFRβ)-specific ligand implicated in a number of pathological conditions, such as cardiovascular disease and cancer, but its biological function remains incompletely understood. In this study, we demonstrate that PDGF-D binds directly to neuropilin 1 (NRP1), in a manner that requires the PDGF-D C-terminal Arg residue. Stimulation with PDGF-D, but not PDGF-B, induced PDGFRβ–NRP1 complex formation in fibroblasts. Additionally, PDGF-D induced translocation of NRP1 to cell–cell junctions in endothelial cells, independently of PDGFRβ, altering the availability of NRP1 for VEGF-A–VEGFR2 signaling. PDGF-D showed differential effects on pericyte behavior in ex vivo sprouting assays compared to PDGF-B. Furthermore, PDGF-D-induced PDGFRβ–NRP1 interaction can occur in trans between molecules located in different cells (endothelial cells and pericytes). In summary, we show that NRP1 can act as a co-receptor for PDGF-D–PDGFRβ signaling and is possibly implicated in intercellular communication in the vascular wall.
ERGONOMICS AND PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS OF ROAD-BUILDING MACHINE OPERATION
Authors: Мандровский Константин , Mandrovskiy Konstantin 
Published: March 2017

The interconnection of ergonomics factors with performance characteristics of operating efficiency of excavators – const price of product unit taking into account costs of possession (CPEP) is considered. A set of CPEP computations for a variable level of ergonomic factors is carried out. A work cycle time period for an excavator with the mass of 20t reasoning from technical potentialities makes from 6 10 sec which is considerably less of a time period spent actually. Time losses depend on the perfection degree in a control system of a machine defining a value of operation speed decrease by an operator and demand in a multistage positioning of a bucket cutting face. Time losses in a work cycle can be presented as depending upon a value of speed decrease of working equipment motion and time loss for control switching in the course of which working equipment is stationary. For the CPEP definition a list of initial data is necessary a part of which depends upon current conditions of machine operation that makes impossible obtaining this information without use of systems of an automated infor-mation collection and information processing (monitoring systems).
A level of ergonomic properties of a specific machine can be assumed as unchangeable but an operator, at the expense of his individuality, introduces instability into efficiency indices. At the possibility of control of time losses for the management in a real time mode (as a number of other indices) provided with a joint functioning of automated control systems and monitoring systems it is possible to give an assessment to the undisclosed potential of efficiency and competitive ability of machine use.
ASSESSMENT AND QUALITY IMPROVEMENT IN COMPLIANCE ACTIVITY PROCESSES
Authors: Школина Татьяна , Shkolina Tatyana , Изотикова Екатерина , Izotikova Ekaterina 
Published: March 2017

In the paper the assessment of the efficiency in a compliance activity process is considered. The peculiarity of this investigation is the integration of current procedures of quality management with quality meter-ing regulations. The range of quality indices in a co-pliance activity is offered. The assessment of compliance activity quality is offered for carrying out through the method of the formation of the generalized (complex) quality index with the use of quality metering regulations. A complex index is calculated according to the data of process monitoring in accordance with the principle of weighted average. An approach to the setting of planned values of quality indices is offered. The recommendations are given for the application of an expert method for the definition of factors of value weightiness. A scale for the interpretation of assessment results is shown. The introduction of critical values of quality indices for the recalculation of an efficiency assessment obtained with the use of a veto factor is offered.
The results of the paper are of interest for managers of quality.
Full-Stock-Payment Marginalization in Merger and Acquisition Transactions
Authors: de Bodt Eric , Cousin Jean-Gabriel , Roll Richard 
Published: March 2017

The number of merger and acquisition (M&A) transactions paid fully in stock in the U.S. market declined sharply after 2001, when pooling and goodwill amortization were abolished by the Financial Accounting Standards Board. Did this accounting rule change really have such far reaching implications? Using a difference-in-differences test and Canada as a counterfactual, this study reveals that it did. We also report several other results confirming the role of pooling abolishment, including (i) that the decrease in full stock payment relates to CEO incentives and (ii) that previously documented determinants of the M&A mode of payment cannot explain the post-pooling abolishment pattern. These results are also robust to controls for various factors, such as the Internet bubble, the exclusion of cross-border deals, the presence of Canadian cross-listed firms, the use of a constant sample of acquirers across the pooling and post-pooling abolishment periods, the use of Europe as an alternative counterfactual, and controls for the SEC Rule 10b-18 share repurchase safe harbor amendments of 2003. This paper was accepted by Shivaram Rajgopal, accounting.
Efficacy and Social Validity of Peer Network Interventions for High School Students With Severe Disabilities
Authors: Asmus Jennifer M. , Carter Erik W. , Moss Colleen K. , Biggs Elizabeth E. , Bolt Daniel M. , Born Tiffany L. , Bottema-Beutel Kristen , Brock Matthew E. , Cattey Gillian N. , Cooney Molly , Fesperman Ethan S. , Hochman Julia M. , Huber Heartley B. , Lequia Jenna L. , Lyons Gregory L. , Vincent Lori B. , Weir Katie 
Published: March 2017

Abstract
This randomized controlled trial examined the efficacy of peer network interventions to improve the social connections of 47 high school students with severe disabilities. School staff invited, trained, and supported 192 peers without disabilities to participate in individualized social groups that met throughout one semester. Compared to adolescents in the “business-as-usual” control group (n = 48), students receiving peer networks gained significantly more new social contacts and friendships. Although many peer relationships maintained one and two semesters later, their spill over beyond the school day was limited. Students and staff affirmed the social validity of the interventions. We offer recommendations for research and practice aimed at improving the implementation and impact of peer network interventions in secondary schools.
Life-Saving Weapons: The Biolegitimacy of Drone Warfare
Authors: Rowland Allison L. 
Published: March 2017

Abstract
This essay uses the theoretical lens of biolegitimacy to advance rhetorical criticism on contemporary drone warfare. As coined by anthropologist Didier Fassin, biolegitimacy describes the emergent preference for “life itself” under humanitarianism. Recasting biolegitimacy as a rhetorical achievement illuminates the strategies by which the United States accrues biolegitimacy for its drone program. In official White House rhetorics, the remotely piloted aircraft that strike over nonrecognized theaters of war, such as Pakistan, Somalia, and Yemen, are packaged in the “saving lives” logic of biolegitimacy. After exploring three rhetorical strategies of official drone rhetorics for achieving biolegitimacy, I suggest that drones themselves act as key distributors of biolegitimate social worth in the War on Terror.
Corrosion rate determination of vessel walls agitated by double impeller and gas sparging
Authors: Baday Amani A. , ElShazly Yehia M.S. , Nosier Shaaban A. 
Published: March 2017

AbstractRecently, multiple impeller gas sparged vessels have found wide application in many industries, such as food, pharmaceuticals, and biofuels. In this study, the rate of diffusion-controlled corrosion of the wall of nitrogen gas sparged-double impeller agitated vessel was studied by the dissolution of copper wall in acidified dichromate solution technique. The variables studied were the impeller rotation speed, the superficial gas velocity, and the clearance between the two impellers. The results were reported in terms of dimensionless number depicting the process conditions, Re, Sc, and the impeller clearance. For the agitated vessel, the corrosion rate correlation was ${\rm{CR}} = 1.6\; \times \;{10^{\; - \;16}}{\rm{R}}{{\rm{e}}_{{\rm{Ag}}{\rm{.}}}}^{0.668}{\left( {{{{C_2}} \over H}} \right)^{0.183}}{\rm{S}}{{\rm{c}}^{0.33}}.$ For the condition: 2800<ReAg.<19,600, 0.19<C2/H<0.58 and Sc=960, with an average deviation of ±2.9%. For the agitated sparged vessel, the data were correlated by ${\rm{CR}} = 2.5\; \times \;{10^{\; - \;15}}{\rm{R}}{{\rm{e}}_{{\rm{Ag}}{\rm{.}}}}^{0.134}{\rm{Re}}_{{\rm{Sp}}{\rm{.}}}^{{\rm{0}}{\rm{.381}}}{\rm{S}}{{\rm{c}}^{0.33}}.$ For the condition: 2800<ReAg.<19,600, 370<ReSp.<1855 and Sc=960, with an average deviation of ±6.7%. These results show that, under these conditions, the rate of corrosion of agitated vessels is controlled by the rate of agitation and the clearance between the impellers. However, when gas sparging is introduced, the rate of corrosion is much more influenced by the gas flow rate, whereas the effect of the clearance between the impellers nearly disappears.
CRSP, numerical results for an electrical resistivity array to detect underground cavities
Authors: Amini Amin , Ramazi Hamidreza 
Published: March 2017

AbstractThis paper is devoted to the application of the Combined Resistivity Sounding and Profiling electrode configuration (CRSP) to detect underground cavities. Electrical resistivity surveying is among the most favorite geophysical methods due to its nondestructive and economical properties in a wide range of geosciences. Several types of the electrode arrays are applied to detect different certain objectives. In one hand, the electrode array plays an important role in determination of output resolution and depth of investigations in all resistivity surveys. On the other hand, they have their own merits and demerits in terms of depth of investigations, signal strength, and sensitivity to resistivity variations. In this article several synthetic models, simulating different conditions of cavity occurrence, were used to examine the responses of some conventional electrode arrays and also CRSP array. The results showed that CRSP electrode configuration can detect the desired objectives with a higher resolution rather than some other types of arrays. Also a field case study was discussed in which electrical resistivity approach was conducted in Abshenasan expressway (Tehran, Iran) U-turn bridge site for detecting potential cavities and/or filling loose materials. The results led to detect an aqueduct tunnel passing beneath the study area.
Review Article. Absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2) in the intestine: diverging actions with converging consequences
Authors: Vanhove Wiebe , Peeters Paul M. , Cleynen Isabelle , Van Assche Gert , Ferrante Marc , Vermeire Séverine , Arijs Ingrid 
Published: March 2017

AbstractThe intestinal mucosa is a difficult environment to maintain homeostasis as it is constantly challenged by microbial and food antigens. Maintaining an intact epithelial barrier, a continuous turnover of intestinal epithelial cells and normobiosis of the gut microbiota are essential components to prevent intestinal diseases such as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and colorectal cancer (CRC). Inflammasomes are critical immune regulators that are involved in all of these processes. They are multiprotein complexes able to assemble upon interaction with a noxious stimulus that will subsequently lead to caspase-1 activation. Activated caspase-1 will orchestrate the maturation and release of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-18, and induce pyroptosis, an inflammatory form of cell death. Both cytokine release and pyroptosis are initiated after detection of molecular patterns by a distinct inflammasome sensor protein. Absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2) is such an inflammasome sensor that specifically responds to the presence of double stranded DNA (dsDNA) in the cytoplasm, leading to the recruitment and activation of caspase-1. Recent studies revealed additional roles of AIM2 in controlling epithelial cell proliferation, tight junction expression and the microbiome. Therefore, AIM2 plays a significant role in maintaining intestinal homeostasis. This review focuses on the multifunctional role of AIM2 in intestinal homeostasis by regulating intestinal immunity and preventing colorectal cancer development.
Heterogeneous placement optimization for database query processing
Authors: Karnagel Tomas , Habich Dirk 
Published: March 2017

Abstract
Computing hardware is constantly evolving and database systems need to adapt to ongoing hardware changes to improve performance. The current hardware trend is heterogeneity, where multiple computing units like CPUs and GPUs are used together in one system. In this paper, we summarize our efforts to use hardware heterogeneity efficiently for query processing. We discuss different approaches of execution and investigate heterogeneous placement in detail by showing, how to automatically determine operator placement decisions according to the given hardware environment and query properties.
Survival of sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas [L] Lam) vines in cultivars subjected to long dry spells after the growing season in Mozambique
Authors: Andrade Maria I. , Makunde Godwill S. , Ricardo Jose , Menomussanga Joana , Alvaro Abilio , Gruneberg Wolfgang J. 
Published: March 2017

Abstract
Optimisation of sweetpotato production potential is not realized in sub-Saharan Africa where dry spells are common after the growing season. Lack of seed cultivars at the beginning of the rainy season is the challenge and identifying those cultivars with the ability to survive a 4 to 7-month dry spell is an important objective in these regions. To this end, the purpose of the present study was to estimate survival of vines of different cultivars under drought stress. Three harvesting times set as 5, 9 and 11 months after planting were established at Umbeluzi, Nwallate and Gurue in 2015. For each harvesting time, 37 clones were evaluated in a randomized complete block design with two replications. Data collected on yield, vine length and number of sprouts were analysed using SAS 1996. Resisto had long stems but no vines after 9 months at any of the sites. The ability of some clones to reach 9 months and 11 months with few vines at Umbeluzi and Nwallate offer sources of planting material for the subsequent season. Sprouting had broad sense heritability above 50%. Sprouting is known to be an important aspect of cultivar survival. While we show that vine length and thickness could be traits responsible for sweet potato drought tolerance
Pluractionals in Bole-Tangale languages (West-Chadic)
Authors: Zoch Ulrike 
Published: March 2017

Abstract
The paper provides an overview of verbal plural marking and its function in several Bole-Tangale-languages (West-Chadic A). Verbal plurals – or pluractionals – may express repeated action and/or distributivity in most of these languages. In some of the languages under consideration two verbal plural marking strategies can be identified: partial reduplication and infixation/gemination. While partial reduplication seems to be the most generally applicable device to express repeated action and/or plurality of action, the function of infixation/gemination seems to be more specialized towards distributivity.
Once or more often? On pluractionality marking in Tima
Authors: Schneider-Blum Gertrud 
Published: March 2017

AbstractThe verbal root in Tima may be marked for one or several derivational functions, such as transitive, ventive, antipassive, middle voice, causative, instrumental, or pluractionality. Contrary to other derivational devices, pluractional marking can be achieved by various formal strategies, which are described in detail in the present contribution. Pluractional marking on Tima verbs indicates only repeated action or duration, depending on the lexical aspect of the verb; the number of the subject or object does not interfere with the marking. However, certain constructions force the speaker to use the pluractional as default form; the focus is on the action itself in such constructions.
Cost-Effectiveness of Watchful Waiting in Acute Otitis Media
Authors: Sun Di , McCarthy T.J. , Liberman Danica B. 
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND:
American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines for acute otitis media (AOM) allow for children meeting certain criteria to undergo watchful waiting (WW). The cost-effectiveness of this policy has not been evaluated in the United States.

METHODS:
A retrospective review of a random selection of 250 patients ≤18 years old with AOM in the emergency department of a tertiary care children’s hospital was used to characterize current practice of AOM management. These data were incorporated into a decision-analytic cost-utility model comparing the cost-effectiveness of implementing WW to current practice. The primary outcome was the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) expressed in 2015 USD per disability-adjusted life year (DALY) averted from a societal perspective. Multiple sensitivity analyses were conducted.

RESULTS:
From this cohort, chart review confirmed 247 actually had AOM on physical examination. Of these, 231 (93.5%) were prescribed antibiotics, 7 (2.8%) underwent WW, and 9 (3.6%) were sent home without an antibiotic prescription. When American Academy of Pediatrics criteria for WW were applied to this population, 104 patients (42.1%) met conditions for immediate antibiotic prescription, and 143 patients (57.9%) qualified for WW. In our modeled scenario, for every 1000 patients with AOM, implementing WW yielded 514 fewer immediate antibiotic prescriptions and 205 fewer antibiotic prescriptions used, averting 14.3 DALYs, and saving $5573. The preferability of WW over current practice proved highly robust to sensitivity analysis.

CONCLUSIONS:
WW for AOM management is cost-effective. Implementing WW may improve outcomes and reduce health care expenditures.
Hypercalcemia in advanced cases of carcinoma breast: hospital based study
Authors: Almas Arifa 
Published: March 2017

Background: Hypercalcemia due to cancer is an indicator of poor prognosis, and has been often found to be associated with the disseminated form of disease. Present study describes the serum and urinary calcium levels among the advanced cases of carcinoma breast with respect to stage of disease, presence of osseous metastases and also before and after treatment. It is a hospital based study done at Government Medical College, Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh state of India.Methods: The present hospital-based and descriptive study was done at the Surgery Department of Government Medical College at Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh, India. 50 patients with confirmed breast cancer diagnosis were enrolled in the study. Serum calcium was estimated by Clark and Collip’s method. Urinary calcium was estimated by Sulkowitch method. Serum and urinary calcium levels were compared with respect to stage of disease, presence of osseous metastases and also before and after treatment.Results: Out of 50 cases, raised level of serum calcium and positive urinary calcium was observed in all except 2 cases of stage II disease. Serum calcium levels were found to be higher in stage III and stage IV disease and the differences were found to be statistically significant. Serum calcium level was slightly more raised in cases with osseous metastasis (mean 14.4 mg%) in comparison with cases with non-osseous metastasis (mean 13.3 mg%) however, the difference was statistically not significant. Follow up data after treatment was available for 34 cases. After treatment, reduction in serum and urinary calcium levels was noted in all stages of disease and the decrease in serum calcium levels in stage III and stage IV disease was found to be statistically significant.Conclusions: Hypercalcemia was noticed in almost all cases of advanced carcinoma breast and the serum calcium levels were significantly higher in stage III and stage IV of the disease. There was a significant decrease in serum calcium levels after treatment of the disease which was predominantly surgical treatment alone or in combination with radiotherapy or chemotherapy.
Testicular appendage torsion managed non-operatively
Authors: Nyandowe Masimba , Egedovo Alfred 
Published: March 2017

Background: Acute testicular pain is one of the commonest reasons of testicular exploration. Testicular appendage torsion is one of conditions presenting with testicular pain. If the diagnosis is certain this can be managed conservatively. Operative management is reserved for those patients in whom non-operative management fails. The objective of this study was to ascertain the success of conservative management.Methods: The medical records of thirty-four consecutive patients who were diagnosed with testicular appendage torsion, were managed non-operatively and satisfied the inclusion criteria were retrospectively analysed. Results: The average age of patients was 16.3 years. 94% of the patients were successfully managed non-operatively. Pain not controlled by analgesia was the main reason for representing to the emergency department. All patients were discharged from any further follow up by day 9.Conclusions: Where the diagnosis of testicular appendage torsion is confidently made, non-operative management is a viable option. Larger studies are required to confirm these findings.