cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Efficient and robust independence-based Markov network structure discovery

In this paper we introduce a novel algorithm for the induction of the Markov network structure of a domain from the outcome of conditional independence tests on data. Such algorithms work by successively restricting the set of possible structures until there is only a single structure consistent with the conditional independence tests executed. Existing independence-based algorithms have wellknown shortcomings, such as rigidly ordering the sequence of tests they perform, resulting in potential inefficiencies in the number of tests required, and committing fully to the test outcomes, resulting in lack of robustness in case of unreliable tests. We address both problems through a Bayesian particle filtering approach, which uses a population of Markov network structures to maintain the posterior probability distribution over them, given the outcomes of the tests performed. Instead of a fixed ordering, our approach greedily selects, at each step, the optimally informative from a pool of candidate tests according to information gain. In addition, it maintains multiple candidate structures weighed by posterior probability, which makes it more robust to errors in the test outcomes. The result is an approximate algorithm (due to the use of particle filtering) that is useful in domains where independence tests are uncertain (such as applications where little data is available) or expensive (such as cases of very large data sets and/or distributed data).
The Activation of Protein Synthesis by Intracellular pH

Studies on the activation of development at fertilization of the sea urchin egg have suggested that increases in free calcium and increases in intracellular pH are essential steps in triggering cell division (Whitaker and Steinhardt 1982; Steinhardt 1982). To link an ionic change to a subsequent event, such as cell division, it is necessary to demonstrate three things. First, one must be able to show that the ionic change occurs naturally and always accompanies the event in question. Second, artificially inducing the ionic change should lead to the induction of the event. Third, blocking the ionic change to the natural stimulus should block the subsequent event. All three conditions have been demonstrated for linking increases in free intracellular calcium and increases in intra-cellular pH to the activation of cell division at fertilization in the sea urchin egg.
"Working on Thin Ice? Investigation of Race, Organizational Diversity Context, and Job Insecurity"

Employees’ job insecurity, or fear that they will lose their jobs, is a chronic job stressor with negative effects on workers’ health and work attitudes. There is prior evidence of a sizable racial...
Letter by Stergiopoulos et al Regarding Article, "Burden of Arrhythmia in Pregnancy".

Vaidya et al1 report in a large administrative data set from the United States (Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, National Inpatient Sample) an increase in the overall frequency of arrhythmia in pregnancy from 2000 to 2012. We read this article with great interest, because we recently found, using the same data set over a …
Robustness of persistent currents in two-dimensional Dirac systems with disorder

We consider two-dimensional (2D) Dirac quantum ring systems formed by the infinite mass constraint. When an Aharonov-Bohm magnetic flux is present, e.g., through the center of the ring domain, persistent currents, i.e., permanent currents without dissipation, can arise. In real materials, impurities and defects are inevitable, raising the issue of robustness of the persistent currents. Using localized random potential to simulate the disorder, we investigate how the ensemble-averaged current magnitude varies with the disorder density. For comparison, we study the nonrelativistic quantum counterpart by analyzing the solutions of the Schr\"odinger equation under the same geometrical and disorder settings. We find that, for the Dirac ring system, as the disorder density is gradually increased, the average current decreases slowly initially and then plateaus at a finite nonzero value, indicating remarkable robustness of the persistent currents. The physical mechanism responsible for the robustness is the emergence of a class of boundary states---whispering gallery modes. In contrast, in the Schr\"odinger ring system, such boundary states cannot form, and the currents diminish rapidly to zero with an increase in the disorder density. We develop a physical theory based on a quasi-one-dimensional approximation to understand the striking contrast in the behaviors of the persistent currents in the Dirac and Schr\"odinger rings. Our 2D Dirac ring systems with disorder can be experimentally realized, e.g., on the surface of a topological insulator with natural or deliberately added impurities from the fabrication process.
Fault tolerant unsupervised kernel-based information clustering in hyperspectral images

In this work we derive a novel clustering scheme for hyperspectral pixels according to the material they sense. We utilize statistical correlations that pixels sensing the same material exhibit. Specifically, kernel learning is combined with a norm-one regularized canonical correlations framework that can perform data clustering on nonlinearly dependent data. To tackle the derived minimization formulation we employ gradient descent iterations that enable a computationally efficient determination of proper sparse clustering matrices. Extensive numerical tests on real hyperspectral images reveal that the proposed approach, in spite of being unsupervised, can outperform existing supervised and unsupervised techniques especially in the presence of missing pixels that may be caused by malfunctioning in the data acquisition system.
Elevating adipose eosinophils in obese mice to physiologically normal levels does not rescue metabolic impairments.

Abstract Objective Obesity is a metabolic disorder that has reached epidemic proportions worldwide and leads to increased risk for diabetes, cardiovascular disease, asthma, certain cancers, and various other diseases. Obesity and its comorbidities are associated with impaired adipose tissue (AT) function. In the last decade, eosinophils have been identified as regulators of proper AT function. Our study aimed to determine whether normalizing the number of AT eosinophils in obese mice, to those of lean healthy mice, would reduce obesity and/or improve metabolic fitness. Methods C57BL/6J mice fed a high fat diet (HFD) were simultaneously given recombinant interleukin-5 (rIL5) for 8 weeks to increase AT eosinophils. Metabolic fitness was tested by evaluating weight gain, AT inflammation, glucose, lipid, and mixed-meal tolerance, AT insulin signaling, energy substrate utilization, energy expenditure, and white AT beiging capacity. Results Eosinophils were increased ∼3-fold in AT of obese HFD-fed mice treated with rIL5, and thus were restored to levels observed in lean healthy mice. However, there were no significant differences in rIL5-treated mice among the above listed comprehensive set of metabolic assays, despite the increased AT eosinophils. Conclusions We have shown that restoring obese AT eosinophils to lean healthy levels is not sufficient to allow for improvement in any of a range of metabolic features otherwise impaired in obesity. Thus, the mechanisms that identified eosinophils as positive regulators of AT function, and therefore systemic health, are more complex than initially understood and will require further study to fully elucidate.
Effects of chronic exposure to 12‰ saltwater on the endocrine physiology of juvenile American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis)

ABSTRACT American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) habitats are prone to saltwater intrusion following major storms, hurricanes or droughts. Anthropogenic impacts affecting hydrology of freshwater systems may exacerbate saltwater intrusion into freshwater habitats. The endocrine system of alligators is susceptible to changes in the environment but it is currently not known how the crocodilian physiological system responds to environmental stressors such as salinity. Juvenile alligators were exposed to 12‰ saltwater for 5 weeks to determine the effects of chronic exposure to saline environments. Following 5 weeks, plasma levels of hormones [e.g. progesterone, testosterone, estradiol, corticosterone, aldosterone (ALDO), angiotensin II (ANG II)] were quantified using liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry. Compared with freshwater-kept subjects, saltwater-exposed alligators had significantly elevated plasma levels of corticosterone, 11-deoxycortisol, 17α-hydroxyprogesterone, testosterone, 17β-estradiol, estrone and estriol whereas pregnenolone and ANG II were significantly depressed and ALDO levels were unchanged (slightly depressed). On the one hand, saltwater exposure did not affect gene expression of renal mineralocorticoid and glucorticoid and angiotensin type 1 (AT-1) receptors or morphology of lingual glands. On the other hand, saltwater exposure significantly reduced plasma glucose concentrations whereas parameters diagnostic of perturbed liver function (aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase) and kidney function (creatinine and creatine kinase) were significantly elevated. Except for plasma potassium levels (K+), plasma ions Na+ and Cl− were significantly elevated in saltwater alligators. Overall, this study demonstrated significant endocrine and physiological effects in juvenile alligators chronically exposed to a saline environment. Results provide novel insights into the effects of a natural environmental stressor (salinity) on the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system and steroidogenesis of alligators.
The Pathology of Aspergillus Infection

Aspergillus spp. are responsible for a broad spectrum of human disorders ranging from benign colonisation of mucosal surfaces to life-threatening angioinvasive infection. Diagnosing the array of disorders caused by Aspergillus spp. can be challenging. In the case of the hypersensitivity responses to Aspergillus species, i.e., allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, bronchocentric granulomatosis, and hypersensitivity pneumonitis, the surgical pathologist must be cognisant of their relationship to infection, as fungal organisms may be rare or even absent from the biopsy specimens. Within the gamut of opportunistic infections, Aspergillus species must be distinguished from other fungal mimics; additionally, one must assess whether infection is limited, progressive, or immanently life-threatening. With respect to diagnosis, certain Aspergillus spp. exhibit characteristic morphologic features in tissue that suggest their identity. This chapter examines the pathological changes in tissues due to infection by Aspergillus spp.
The development of independent fiscal institutions: Lessons from CBO

In recent years, independent fiscal institutions (IFIs) have been created in many countries around the world. Prior to this recent expansion, only the Dutch Central Planning Bureau (CPB), started in 1945, and the U.S. Congressional Budget Office (CBO), started in 1974, existed. The reasons for this expansion are many, but a few stand out, including: • the growing complexity of fiscal policies and the need for greater transparency; • the greater involvement of legislatures in budgeting; • the exposure to underlying risks and long-term sustainability issues prompted by the recent financial crises; and • the importance of objective, nonpartisan budget information to the implementation and evaluation of fiscal rules.
Simultaneous alcohol and marijuana use among underage young adults in the United States

Abstract Objective The current study examines the prevalence, stability, and correlates of simultaneous alcohol and marijuana (SAM) use among underage US young adults, a population at high risk for participating in this behavior. Method Analyses used data from 1719 respondents (46.8% men) who participated in the nationally representative 12th-grade Monitoring the Future study and provided responses to SAM use items at longitudinal follow-up at modal ages 19/20 between 2007 and 2016. Prevalence estimates and covariate associations with SAM use were estimated. Results SAM use prevalence at modal age 19/20 was 22.5%. Multivariable models indicated that odds of age 19/20 SAM use were significantly (p Conclusions SAM use among young adults aged 19/20 in the US is relatively common, but especially so for those who began such use by age 18, highlighting the early onset and stability of this behavior. Among underage drinkers, SAM risk varies by sex, race/ethnicity, college status, and living arrangements.
Association of the kidney allocation system with dialysis exposure before deceased donor kidney transplantation by preemptive wait-listing status.

BACKGROUND It is unknown whether the new kidney transplant allocation system (KAS) has attenuated the advantages of preemptive wait-listing as a strategy to minimize pretransplant dialysis exposure. METHODS We performed a retrospective study of adult US deceased donor kidney transplant (DDKT) recipients between December 4, 2011-December 3, 2014 (pre-KAS) and December 4, 2014-December 3, 2017 (post-KAS). We estimated pretransplant dialysis durations by preemptive listing status in the pre- and post-KAS periods using multivariable gamma regression models. RESULTS Among 65 385 DDKT recipients, preemptively listed recipients (21%, n = 13 696) were more likely to be white (59% vs 34%, P < 0.001) and have private insurance (64% vs 30%, P < 0.001). In the pre- and post-KAS periods, average adjusted pretransplant dialysis durations for preemptively listed recipients were <2 years in all racial groups. Compared to recipients who were listed after starting dialysis, preemptively listed recipients experienced 3.85 (95% Confidence Interval [CI] 3.71-3.99) and 4.53 (95% CI 4.32-4.74) fewer average years of pretransplant dialysis in the pre- and post-KAS periods, respectively (P < 0.001 for all comparisons). CONCLUSIONS Preemptively wait-listed DDKT recipients continue to experience substantially fewer years of pretransplant dialysis than recipients listed after dialysis onset. Efforts are needed to improve both socioeconomic and racial disparities in preemptive wait-listing.
Abstract 110: Vascular Smooth Muscle RhoBTB1 Protects From Hypertension and Arterial Stiffness by Cullin-3 Dependent Ubiquitination of Phosphodiesterase 5

We previously reported that vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) selective expression of hypertension (HT)-causing mutations in either PPARγ or the E3 Ring Ubiquitin Ligase Cullin-3 causes nitric oxi...
Redox Regulation of Ion Channels and Receptors in Pulmonary Hypertension.

Significance: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is characterized by elevated vascular resistance due to vasoconstriction and remodeling of the normally low-pressure pulmonary vasculature. Redox stress contributes to the pathophysiology of this disease by altering the regulation and activity of membrane receptors, K+ channels, and intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis. Recent Advances: Antioxidant therapies have had limited success in treating PH, leading to a growing appreciation that reductive stress, in addition to oxidative stress, plays a role in metabolic and cell signaling dysfunction in pulmonary vascular cells. Reactive oxygen species generation from mitochondria and NADPH oxidases has substantial effects on K+ conductance and membrane potential, and both receptor-operated and store-operated Ca2+ entry. Critical Issues: Some specific redox changes resulting from oxidation, S-nitrosylation, and S-glutathionylation are known to modulate membrane receptor and ion channel activity in PH. However, many sites of regulation that have been elucidated in nonpulmonary cell types have not been tested in the pulmonary vasculature, and context-specific molecular mechanisms are lacking. Future Directions: Here, we review what is known about redox regulation of membrane receptors and ion channels in PH. Further investigation of the mechanisms involved is needed to better understand the etiology of PH and develop better targeted treatment strategies.
Brief History of Electrical Cortical Stimulation: A Journey in time from Volta to Penfield (P5.299)

Objective: To investigate the evolution of Electrical Cortical Stimulation (ECS) to localize brain functions and to discuss related instruments and personnel. Background: ECS is commonly used in neurosurgery for localization of brain functions and is the benchmark for research studies. Early ECS experiments led to breakthrough in understanding of the brain after centuries of controversy over ‘animal-spirit’. Significant advances in electromagnetism were inspired by debates over brain and nerve conductivity in late 18th-century. Design/Methods: Literature review through historical archives implementing snowball-method. Results: There were important milestones leading to the incorporation of ECS into practice: 1. Aldini’s (1802) first known stimulation of exposed brain to defend Galvani’s views on excitability in the frog-leg experiment against Volta’s, ironically employing then-newly-invented Voltaic-pile 2. Animal experiments in the 19th-century to study the brain and to optimize the procedure: Rolando (1809) reported on motor induction, Fritsch and Hitzig (ca.1870) introduced the concepts of bipolar and threshold stimulation, and Ferrier (1886) generated reproducible homunculi in animals. 3. Parallel to 2, advances were made based on clinical observations by Bravais, Todd, Jackson, and Broca among others. 4. First known stimulation in awake humans by Bartholow (1874) led to catastrophic outcomes. Horsley (1886) performed first intraoperative stimulation on Jackson’s epileptic patient. 5. Accelerated advances in the first-half of the 20th century with Cushing (1909) performing first awake-craniotomy eliciting sensory responses to Penfield’s magnificent work culminating in standardization of the clinical use and generating detailed maps including the famous sensory-motor homunculi. ECS continued to evolve along with other functional methods of localization. Parallel advances in instrumentation were made from the Layden-Jar (1745) to the present customizable current-controlled stimulators. Conclusions: Significant leaps have been made since ECS first used in the 19th century. It evolved to remain the gold standard for localization of human brain functions in the 21st century. Study Supported by: NA Disclosure: Dr. Isitan has nothing to disclose. Dr. Benjamin has nothing to disclose. Dr. Quraishi has nothing to disclose. Dr. Spencer has nothing to disclose. Dr. Alkawadri has nothing to disclose.
Bio-protection of brown spot disease of rice and insight into the molecular basis of interaction between Oryza sativa, Bipolaris oryzae and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens.

Abstract The aim of the study is to evaluate the efficacy of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain BS5 against brown spot disease of rice and to understand the molecular mechanism of host-pathogen-bioagent interactions through a proteomic approach. We tested the antagonistic potential of forty Bacillus spp. against Bipolaris oryzae under in vitro. Based on their antagonism, ten effective strains were selected and characterized at the molecular level. The antibiotic biosynthetic genes producing bacillomycin, bacilysin, iturin, surfactin, subtilin, mersacidin, subtilosin, ericin, mycosubtilin and fengycin from the effective strains were detected by PCR analysis. Among the strains, BS5 exerted higher mycelial growth inhibition (76.66%) of the pathogen and possesses the maximum number (9) of antibiotic genes as well. We also evaluated the efficacy of liquid formulation of the Bacillus strains BS5, BS6 and BS39 against brown spot disease under glasshouse and field conditions. The results indicated a significant reduction in the intensity of brown spot disease with the combined application of seed treatment + seedling dip + foliar spray of BS5 liquid formulation under glasshouse and field conditions. Furthermore, a 2D-PAGE analysis revealed a total of nine proteins with differential expressions using MALDI-TOF Mass spectrometry (MS). The Mascot algorithm demonstrated homology among proteins such as ribulose 1, 5 bisphosphate carboxylase, 2-cys-peroxiredoxin, ATP synthase, trehalose-phosphate phosphatase, serine/threonine protein kinase and 50s ribosomal protein. The functions of the proteins were mainly related to plant metabolism, defense response and disease resistance. The three ways synergy associated with the host-pathogen-bioagent of rice plants will be provided in this study.
International Evidence on Income Share Agreements: Perceptions and Characteristics of ISAs Recipients

Income Share Agreements (ISAs) have been proposed as an efficient financing scheme for higher education that could also enhance postsecondary outcomes. Yet, there is not enough knowledge about ISAs in education. This paper combines administrative and survey data on students who were offered an ISA by a Latin American provider and offers several novel findings on (1) the factors that explain student ISA take-up and (2) students’ perceptions of ISAs. First, students’ perceptions of ISAs, age, relationship status, and family income are important determinants of the take-up decision. Second, students who took ISAs expect higher future income, but have a worse academic performance than non-takers, suggesting that adverse selection might be a challenge for the large-scale implementation of ISAs. Third, while ISA takers and non-takers do not significantly differ in terms of their attitude towards risk, students are less likely to take an ISA if they perceive it to be riskier than a loan. Lastly, students perceive that ISAs increased their persistence and allowed them to stay enrolled at their preferred institution and major. These findings are relevant for the design and policy evaluation of ISAs both in the US, where legislation has been introduced and ISA programs are proliferating, and in other countries considering reforms in higher education financing.
1612 Comparison of Short Term Outcomes after Laparoscopic Salpingostomy Versus Salpingectomy for the Surgical Management of Ectopic Pregnancy

Study Objective To investigate the differences in complication rates between laparoscopic salpingostomy and salpingectomy. Design Propensity score matched retrospective cohort study. Setting American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Patients or Participants Women with surgical management of ectopic pregnancy between 2010-2017. Interventions Laparoscopic salpingectomy and salpingostomy. Measurements and Main Results Of 8,092 ectopic pregnancies, 989 were treated with laparoscopic salpingostomies and matched to laparoscopic salpingectomies at a ratio of 1:2 using propensity scores for the likelihood of undergoing salpingostomy. Propensity scores were calculated using preoperative demographic and clinical characteristics. After matching, no significant differences exist between salpingostomy and salpingectomy in preoperative hematocrit (36.1+/-4.4% vs 35.8+/-4.7%, p=0.91), transfusion rate (1.9% vs 2.0%, p=0.19), age (29.8+/-5.7yrs vs 30.1+/-5.7yrs, p=0.31), and comorbidities (5.8% vs 4.7%). Mean operating times between salpingostomy and salpingectomy showed no difference, (60.7+/-27.2min vs 58.9+/-36.4 min, p=0.78) or conversion to laparotomy (0.2% vs 0.06%, p=0.99). Wound contamination was higher with salpingectomies (3.4% vs 0.02%). The composite complication rate was 10.1%. Postoperative transfusions (6.5% vs 5.8%, p=0.003), reoperation (2.0% vs 0.5%, p Conclusion Laparoscopic salpingostomy is associated with higher risk of complications compared to laparoscopic salpingectomy when treating ectopic pregnancies; though the magnitude of this effect is small given the cohort size. This should be considered when counseling patients on salpingectomy versus salpingostomy.
Long Non-coding RNAs in Vascular Health and Disease

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play important roles in the regulation of diverse biological processes within the vessel wall in health and disease. Emerging studies have identified unique mechanisms by which lncRNAs control gene expression and cell signaling pathways; however, the field is still nascent. While a growing number of lncRNAs have been functionally evaluated in response to pathophysiological stimuli or in vascular disease states, the biological roles for the majority of lncRNAs have yet to be uncovered. For example, lncRNAs may influence endothelial function by modulating endothelial cell proliferation (e.g., MALAT1, H19) or angiogenesis (e.g., MEG3, MANTIS). LncRNAs have also been found to modulate vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) phenotypes or vascular remodeling (e.g., ANRIL, SMILR, SENCR, MYOSLID). Finally, leukocyte-enriched lncRNAs may control leukocyte activation (e.g., lincRNA-Cox2, linc00305, THRIL), macrophage polarization (e.g., GAS5), and cholesterol metabolism (e.g., LeXis, MeXis). This chapter reviews recent findings on the expression, mechanism, and function of lncRNAs associated with diverse vascular disease states from mice to human subjects. Exploration of lncRNA biology in vascular disease may provide new insights into known signaling pathways, thereby uncovering opportunities for the generation of novel RNA-based biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Poor glycemic control is associated with significant increase in major limb amputation and adverse events in the 30-day postoperative period after infrainguinal bypass

Abstract Objective Understanding modifiable risk factors to improve surgical outcomes is increasingly important in value-based health care. There is an established association between peripheral artery disease (PAD), diabetes, and limb loss, but less is known about expected outcomes after revascularization relative to the degree of glycemic control. The purpose of this study was to determine the association between hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) management in diabetics and surgical outcomes after open infrainguinal bypass. Methods The Vascular Quality Initiative infrainguinal bypass module was used to identify adult patients (≥18 years) with a history of diabetes who underwent bypass for PAD between 2011 and 2018. Exclusion criteria included missing or illogical HbA1c values and if the indication for the limb treated was not PAD. Patients were categorized by preoperative HbA1c levels as low severity/controlled ( 10.0%). Primary outcomes were 30-day incidence of major adverse cardiac events (MACEs), major adverse limb events (MALEs), ipsilateral amputation, and 1-year all-cause mortality. Thirty-day outcomes were calculated using multivariable regression to compute odds ratios; hazard ratios were calculated for all-cause mortality. All analyses were adjusted for demographics, comorbidities, and clinical characteristics. Results The final sample included 30,813 operations (27,988 unique patients): 17,517 (57%) nondiabetic patients, 5194 patients with low-severity/controlled diabetes, and 8102 (26%) patients with poorly controlled diabetes, including 5531 (70%) treated with insulin. There were 6439 (21%) patients with high-severity HbA1c values and 1663 (5%) patients with very-high-severity HbA1c values. Those with a very high HbA1c level were more likely to be nonwhite, insulin dependent, and active smokers. Compared with nondiabetics, patients with very-high-severity HbA1c had an 81% increase in MACEs and 31% increase in MALEs, whereas patients with high-severity HbA1c only had a 49% increase in MACEs and a 12% increase in MALEs. Each one-step increase in severity category (eg, low to high to very high) was associated with an average 29% increase in the odds of MACEs and an 8% increase in the odds of MALEs. Conclusions Uncontrolled diabetes with an HbA1c value >10.0% was associated with significantly worse 30-day surgical outcomes. Patients with incrementally better glycemic control (HbA1c level of 7.0%-10.0%) did not suffer the same rate of complications, suggesting that preoperative attempts at improving diabetes management even slightly could lead to improved surgical outcomes in open infrainguinal bypass patients.
Designing for Self-Determination: Making Futures Without Policing

This workshop examines the potential opportunities and dangers of using a design approach within grassroots movements that are building alternative social structures. Designers claim to be able to shape future ways-of-being by designing artifacts that invite new socio-material interactions. Yet, design is only one way to create the future. Does design inherently produce static, blueprinted ways-of-being? Is it possible to design within systems that are relational, cooperative, and dynamic? How might designing objects help community organizers reckon with the tools and technologies of existing infrastructures and develop lateral solutions? Workshop participants will investigate the limitations of design in this context by practicing the practice, using the example of designing for alternatives to policing. We will work in small groups to build on community-based precedents, prototyping objects, tools and technologies that could support alternatives to calling the police in response to a threat. Then, we will draw from our collective experience to discuss and debate what design might or might not offer in this context.
Low-level soluble chloride extraction in soil.

Abstract Three methods of extraction of low-level soluble chloride contents from vadose-zone soil were evaluated in this study. Three methods were employed on a silty sand soil using a 2:1 fluid:soil ratio: 1) Method A utilized three successive rinses with deionized water; 2) Method B applied three successive rinses of 0.0001 M and 0.001 M Na2SO4 solution; and 3) Method C passed deionized water through the soil with a pressurized filtration system three times. Method A had lower standard deviation and yielded more consistent soluble chloride contents per rinse than method C; Method B was ruled out because of concerns that the Na2SO4 reagent contained trace amounts of chloride. Method A was applied with a 1:1 fluid:soil ratio in duplicate to 50 samples from a 34-m thick vadose-zone borehole, yielding a mean difference in duplicates of 13.9% and percent total extracted soluble chloride of 62.4 ± 9.9%, 25.2 ± 7.4%, and 12.4 ± 6.6% in each of the three successive rinses. • Three successive rinses of soil with deionized water achieved consistent extraction results. • Multiple rinses are necessary to extract soluble chloride if chloride contents are low. • This method is amenable to analysis of soil in vadose-zone borehole samples.
Trump’s Taxes: An Analysis of the Allegations

For years, the media and President Trump’s political opponents have been talking about the amount of taxes Trump pays (or doesn’t pay). As of this writing, his recent tax returns have not been released, so anything anyone says needs to be discounted. However, it is possible to make certain tentative statements and conclusions based on the facts that have been made available and the application of economic and political theory. The present paper does that.
A γδ T–cell Imprint in a Rare Skin Tumor

In-depth immune profiling can guide the development and targeting of cancer immunotherapies. In this issue, Gherardin and colleagues find a strong signature of γδ T cells in the immune infiltrate of Merkel cell carcinoma that correlates with a more favorable prognosis and heightened responsiveness to checkpoint inhibitors. This may lead to future γδ T cell-targeted immunotherapies.See article by Gherardin et al., p. 612.
Efficacy of a Single Dose of Peri-Operative Antibiotics in Breast Implant Surgery and Risk Factors for Infection in Post-Mastectomy Patients Undergoing Placement of Permanent Breast Implants.

Background: Breast implant placement is a common operation performed by plastic surgeons, with more than 78,664 implant-based breast reconstructions carried out in the United States in 2016. Infect...
Editorial Comment: No Hematocrit? No Problem-Generating Synthetic Extracellular Volume Fraction on Cardiac Dual-energy CT.

This Editorial Comment discusses the following AJR article: Synthetic Extracellular Volume Fraction Derived Using Virtual Unenhanced Attenuation of Blood on Dual-Energy Contrast-Enhanced Cardiac CT...
Hotels vs. Peer-to-Peer Accommodation Rentals: Text Analytics of Consumer Reviews in Portland, Oregon *

Peer-to-peer (P2P) accommodation rentals continue to grow at a phenomenal rate. Examining how this business model affects the competitive landscape of accommodation services is of strategic importance to hotels and tourism destinations. This study explores the competitive edge of P2P accommodation in comparison to hotels by extracting key content and themes from online reviews to explain the key service attributes sought by guests. The results from text analytics using terminology extraction and word co-occurrence networks indicate that even though guests expect similar core services such as clean rooms and comfortable beds, different attributes support the competitive advantage of hotels and P2P rentals. While conveniences offered by hotels are unparalleled by P2P accommodation, the latter appeal to consumers driven by experiential and social motivations. Managerial implications for hotels and P2P accommodation are provided.
Undergraduate Research Courses: A Closer Look Reveals Complex Social Work Student Attitudes

This study of 285 BSW students over a 4-year period examines the students' initial attitudes toward learning research and identifies associated characteristics. In contrast to social work students' reputation of being “research reluctant,” findings reveal considerable variation, with a large portion of students reporting overall positive attitudes. Ordinary least squares regressions revealed that women and students with less statistical knowledge are more fearful of research courses, while older students and those with greater levels of social work empowerment find research courses to be more appealing. The study findings suggest 3 pedagogical principles upon which various teaching strategies may be based.
The virtual network function placement problem

Network functions are widely deployed in modern networks, providing various network services ranging from intrusion detection to HTTP caching, for the purpose of performance, security or policy compliance. According to a recent survey [6], network function deployments are ubiquitous: on par with the number of L3 infrastructures. Application or user requirements may specify policies that require flows traverse through a give sequence of networks functions, called policy enforcement.
PUBLIC PERCEPTIONS OF CHILD ABUSE

A longitudinal cross sectional 10 year study was conducted measuring public attitudes toward the definition and criminalization of physical child abuse, psychological child abuse, and child neglect. The study found that the public endorses a fairly broad liberal definition of child abuse and that this definition of child abuse is fairly stable over time. Subjects also strongly endorsed the creation of misdemeanor and felony statutes and strongly endorsed the use of prison to punish child abusers.
Europort-D: Commercial Benefits of Using Parallel Technology

Parallel computing is a leading-edge technology providing HPC performance at lower cost than traditional supercomputing. It can be effected using either specialised parallel hardware (closely connected processing units) or, at a smaller scale, by employing a number of standard, inexpensive workstations or even PCs. Even so, there was only a limited impact of this technology on industrial computing, the main reason being that portable commercial software to exploit parallel technology was largely not available. Therefore, the European Commission promoted industry in Europe through the ESPRIT initiatives Europort * and Europort-D. The goal was to demonstrate the benefit and cost-effectiveness of parallel systems to industry at large and foster their industrial use. This paper gives a summary on Europort and Europort-D, focusing on the commercial benefits of using parallel technology.
IL-12 Induction of mRNA Encoding Substance P in Murine Macrophages from the Spleen and Sites of Inflammation

Substance P (SP), a neuropeptide, interacts with the neurokinin 1 receptor (NK-1R) on immune cells to help control IFN-γ production. In murine schistosomiasis mansoni, schistosome worms produce ova that incite focal Th2-type granulomatous inflammation within the liver and intestines. Normal gut is characterized by a controlled state of inflammation. IL-10 knockout mice develop chronic Th1-type colitis spontaneously. Both schistosome granulomas and gut mucosa display an SP immune regulatory circuit. However, the origin and regulation of SP production at these sites of inflammation are poorly understood. Macrophages are a potential source of SP. We therefore studied macrophages (F4/80 + ) from these models of inflammation. SP mRNA (preprotachykinin A (PPT A)) was detected within the schistosome granuloma, spleen, and lamina propria macrophages. Compared with those from wild-type mice, granuloma macrophages from STAT6 −/− mice had 10-fold higher PPT A mRNA expression, whereas in STAT4 −/− animals, PPT A mRNA expression was nearly abolished. IL-12 signals via STAT4 to induce Th1-type inflammation. It was demonstrated that IL-12, but not IL-18, induces SP mRNA expression in resting splenic macrophages from Schistosoma -infected mice and in wild-type lamina propria mononuclear cells. Thus, macrophages are a source for SP at these sites of chronic inflammation, and IL-12 and STAT4 are regulators of macrophage SP mRNA expression.
Clinical utility of intravascular ultrasound in the assessment of coronary allograft vasculopathy: a review.

Coronary artery vasculopathy (CAV) is one of the major factors that limit the long-term survival of heart transplant recipients. It is difficult to diagnose CAV, especially in the early stages. Traditional coronary angiography has been used for the diagnosis of CAV, but this method has limitations. Current literature suggests that intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) is a safe imaging technique that is beneficial for the early diagnosis of CAV; in comparison, IVUS with virtual histology (IVUS-VH) is an even more promising diagnostic utility. Despite its advantages, IVUS is currently not routinely utilized as the primary diagnostic modality for CAV in heart transplant recipients. In this review, we evaluate and summarize the clinical utility of IVUS in the early diagnosis of CAV, including its utility for assessing vessel remodeling, plaque composition, and prognostic value; morphometric analysis; and guiding therapy. After reviewing the relevant published literature, it is our recommendation that the use of IVUS be considered in all post-transplant CAV screening. (J Interven Cardiol 2011;24:9–14)
Increasing Blood Culture Use at US Hospital Emergency Department Visits, 2001 to 2004

Study objective We describe emergency department (ED) visits in which patients had blood cultured and examine changes in blood culture use. Methods Data from the 2001 to 2004 National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, an annual sample survey of visits to US hospital EDs, were analyzed. About 400 EDs reported data for approximately 37,000 visits each year. Trends in blood culture use were examined among persons 3 months of age and older. Visits by admitted/transferred patients were compared to those released. Results About 3.1 million blood cultures were ordered annually in US EDs; blood cultures were ordered at 2.8% of all visits. From 2001 through 2004, the proportion of visits where a blood culture was ordered increased by 33%, particularly in adults. The proportion of visits with a pneumonia diagnosis where a blood culture was ordered rose by 23% during the study period; these visits accounted for 22% of the increase in blood culture use among admitted patients. Almost half of blood cultures were ordered at visits in which the patient was released from the ED. For visits by released patients 3 years of age and older who had blood cultured, 43% had neither fever nor antibiotic prescriptions. Conclusion There is an increasing national trend in the use of blood cultures at adult patient ED visits; a large proportion of these cultures were for released patients without apparent indicators for bacteremia, such as fever or antibiotic prescriptions. Factors and impact associated with this dynamically changing practice need further evaluation.
On the Importance of a Unified Model of Responsiveness to Intervention

Fletcher and Vaughn (this issue) present a balanced description of the potential advantages and challenges associated with responsiveness-to-intervention (RTI) for preventing academic failure and identifying learning disability. In this brief commentary, we take issue with them on only one idea. They write, “RTI models are best considered as a set of processes and not a single model” (p. X, emphasis added). As they note, RTI practice varies dramatically from site to site, especially in the number of intervention “tiers” and how special education fits. We propose that RTI’s major goal, to prevent long-term and debilitating academic failure, is better served by a single, unified model that helps practitioners understand procedural variations under the same umbrella. A unified model will permit shared understanding of intervention intensity, shared notions of appropriate roles for various personnel, and a shared conceptualization of the relationship between general and special education. We briefly describe such a unified model, explain how it eases some of the challenges associated with RTI implementation, and consider implications for learning disabilities.
RSTA sensor integration onto PackBot for urban operations

As the Army transforms to the Objective Force, particular attention must be paid to operations in Complex and Urban Terrain. Because our adversaries realize that we don’t have battlefield dominance in the urban environment, and because population growth and migration to urban environments is still on the increase, our adversaries will continue to draw us into operations in the urban environment. The Army Research Laboratory (ARL) is developing technology to equip our soldiers for the urban operations of the future. Sophisticated small robotic platforms with diverse sensor suites will be an integral part of the Future Force, and must be able to collaborate not only amongst themselves but also with their manned partners. The Army Research Laboratory has developed a Reconnaissance, Surveillance, and Target Acquisition (RSTA) sensor payload for integration onto an iRobot Packbot. The RSTA sensor payload is equipped with an acoustic array that will detect and localize on an impulsive noise event, such as a sniper's weapon firing. Additionally, the robot sensor head is equipped with visible and thermal camera for operations both day and night. The RSTA sensor head equipped Packbot can then be deployed by dismounted soldiers to enhance their situational awareness in the urban environment. The information from one Packbot can then be fused with other sensors as part of a sensor network. Sensor equipped Packbots provides an awesome capability to the future dismounted infantry soldier during warfighting and peacekeeping operations in complex and urban terrain by enhancing their situational awareness and improving their survivability.
A stochastic model for microtubule length dynamics

Abstract In this paper, we use random walk theory to describe the length dynamics of microtubules, one of the principal components of the cytoskeleton. We present a simple two-state model (growing and shrinking) of microtubule length evolution that incorporates a variable rate of switching between the states. Using the generating function technique, we calculate the mean length of microtubule, its variance and diffusion coefficient. We also report analytical and computer simulation results for the mean number of positive monomers in microtubule, and find good qualitative agreement with experimental data.
Discrete Versus Continuous Newton's Method: A Case Study

We consider the damped Newton’s method N h (z) = z−hp(z)/p′(z), 0 0. Further we discuss the damped Newton’s method applied to the family of polynomials of degree 3.
Non-invasive analysis of myoblast transplants in rodent cardiac muscle.

Background: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of magnetically labeled stem cells is a non-invasive approach that can provide images with high spatial resolution. We evaluated the ability of a commercially available, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved contrast agent to allow the monitoring of myoblast transplants in the rodent heart. Methods and Results: Primary rat myoblasts were efficiently labeled by incubation with ferumoxide–polycation complexes and labeled cells retained their normal capacity to generate mature myotubes. Intra-cellular iron-oxide accumulation resulted in MRI contrast changes, allowing for three-dimensional, non-invasive detection of labeled cells in the rodent myocardium. Histological analysis of hearts injected with labeled myoblasts or control, non-viable myoblasts revealed that areas of MRI contrast changes corresponded to iron contained within engrafted myotubes and scavenger cells up to two months post-injection. Conclusions: The high sensitivity of MR imaging will allow for non-invasive studies of cardiac stem cell migration and homing. Additional techniques are in development to non-invasively determine stem cell engraftment rates, viability and differentiation.
Liquid chromatographic separation and detection of epinephrine and its oxidation products, adrenochrome and adrenolutin

Abstract High-performance liquid chromatographic and silica gel thin-layer chromatographic methods were developed for the separation and simultaneous detection of adrenochrome, adrenolutin and epinephrine. The latter method includes a convenient plate treatment to preclude decomposition of subtances during chromatography. A simple column chromatographic method that separates mixtures of adrenochrome and adrenolutin is also described.
Using Teacher-Guided Practice To Help Students with Learning Disabilities Acquire and Retain Social Studies Content.

This study investigated the application of effective teaching techniques and instructional sequence, previously found effective in skill instruction (e.g., Rosenshine, 1986a), to social studies lec...
New-onset versus prior history of atrial fibrillation: Outcomes from the AFFIRM trial

Methods and results We conducted a comparison of these 2 groups in the AFFIRM trial. New-onset AF was the qualifying arrhythmia in 1,391 patients (34%). Compared with patients with prior history of AF, patients with new-onset AF were more likely to have a history of heart failure. There was no mortality difference between rate control (RaC) and rhythm control (RhC) among patients with new-onset AF (17% vs 20%, P = .152). In the univariate model, new-onset AF was associated with increased risk of mortality compared with history of prior AF (RaC unadjusted hazard ratio [HR] 1.36 [P = .010], RhC unadjusted HR 1.39 [P = .003]). However, after multivariate adjustments, new-onset AF did not carry an increased risk of mortality (RaC adjusted HR 1.14 [P = .370], RhC adjusted HR 1.16 [P = .248]). Subjects with new-onset AF randomized to the RhC arm were more likely to remain in normal sinus rhythm at follow-up (adjusted HR 0.79, P = .012) compared with patients with prior history of AF. Conclusions In a multivariable analysis adjusting for confounders, new-onset AF was not associated with increased mortality compared with prior history of AF regardless of the treatment strategy. Patients with new-onset AF treated with the rhythm control strategy were more likely to remain in normal sinus rhythm on follow-up. (Am Heart J 2015;170:156-163.e1.)