cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fast Algorithms for Area Morphology

Abstract Acton, S. T., Fast Algorithms for Area Morphology, Digital Signal Processing11 (2001) 187–203 Efficient algorithms are developed for area morphology. As opposed to traditional morphological operations that alter grayscale images via a concatenation of order statistic filters, the area morphological operators manipulate connected components within the image level sets. Essentially, the area morphology filters are capable of removing objects based on the object area solely. These operators can then be effectively used in important multiscale and scale space tasks such as object-based coding and hierarchical image searches. Unfortunately, the traditional implementation of these filters based on level set theory precludes real-time implementation. This paper reviews previous fast algorithms and introduces a pyramidal approach. The full pyramidal algorithm is over 1000 times faster than the standard algorithm for typical image sizes. The paper provides supporting simulation results in terms of computational complexity and solution quality.
Biatrial myxoma: a case report and review of the literature

Background In surgical series, a majority of benign cardiac tumors are myxomas. Of these, only about 2.5% are biatrial. Only 10 cases have been reported in the last 10 years. We present here a successful case in a 51-year-old man. A brief review of the literature is presented to place this case in context. Methods The tumor was removed surgically via a midline sternotomy using cardiopulmonary bypass. Both left and right atrial extensions of the tumor mass were removed. The resection involved the entire septum, with a bovine patch used to reconstruct the atrial septum. Results Patient recovered uneventfully. We advised follow-up evaluation using transthoracic echocardiography annually. Conclusions Biatrial myxoma is a very rare condition, with diagnostic challenges, but is amenable to modern surgical approaches.
Effects of posterior fossa decompression with and without duraplasty on Chiari malformation-associated hydromyelia.

Objective The optimal surgical treatment of Chiari malformation is unclear, especially in patients with hydromyelia. Various surgical approaches have included suboccipital craniectomy, syringostomy, obex plugging, syringosubarachnoid shunting, and fourth ventriculosubarachnoid shunting. The purpose of this study is to differentiate extradural and intradural approaches in the treatment of Chiari I malformation. Methods We reviewed the medical records and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of 34 surgical corrections' of Chiari malformation performed at our institution from 1988 to 1998. The age and sex of the patient, the presence of hydromyelia, the type of surgery (duraplasty or nonduraplasty), and the clinical outcome were determined. Results Eleven patients underwent posterior fossa decompression (PFD) and C1 laminectomy without duraplasty. Eight (73%) of these patients had an improvement in symptoms. Seven of the 11 patients had hydromyelia. Of the six patients who underwent follow-up MRI, three (50%) had a decrease in the size of the hydromyelia, and all three had clinical improvement. We also noted a morphometric increase in posterior fossa volume on postoperative MRI scans in these three patients, which was not observed in those without improvement. Two of the three patients whose hydromyelia did not decrease on follow-up MRI scans worsened clinically, and one underwent a reoperation with duraplasty. Twenty-three patients underwent combined PFD, C1 laminectomy, and duraplasty. Twenty (87%) of these patients had improvement. Twelve of the patients who underwent duraplasty had hydromyelia; nine underwent follow-up MRI. All nine of these patients (100%) had a decrease in the cavity size, including eight with clinical improvement. There were 10 minor complications (seroma, 4; superficial infection, 3; cerebrospinal fluid leak, 2; aseptic meningitis and occipital nerve pain, 1) when the dura was opened, compared with one superficial wound infection that resolved in patients who underwent PFD only. Conclusion PFD, C1 laminectomy, and duraplasty for the treatment of Chiari I malformation may lead to a more reliable reduction in the volume of concomitant hydromyelia, compared with PFD and C1 laminectomy alone. However, there seems to be a subset of patients whose symptoms will resolve and whose hydromyelic cavity will decrease with the removal of bone only. These patients seem to undergo a volumetric increase in the posterior fossa. Further studies are needed to better characterize these patients, to determine which patients with Chiari I malformation are better served with bony decompression only, and which will require duraplasty to resolve their hydromyelia.
Optoelectronically implemented neural network for early visual processing

A new optoelectronic technology for the implementation of neural network architectures is being developed at Lincoln Laboratory. The new technology is based on a multiple-quantum- well (MQW) device called the monolithic optoelectronic transistor (MOET). MOET is a true optical transistor; it enables the switching of one optical signal with a much weaker one. The terminal characteristics are ideal for implementing a neuron: abrupt or sigmoidal thresholds, saturated ON and OFF states, and high fan-out. The device will be initially demonstrated for implementation of early visual processing networks. The baseline network is the CORT-X model, a multiple spatial-scale, feedforward network for boundary segmentation of noisy binary images. MOET implementation is possible with slight modifications to the CORT-X architecture. Simulations of the hardware implemented network are carried out and compared with the performance of the original model. As a function of input image carrier-to-noise ratio (CNR), performance is evaluated with respect to deviations from ideal response along two dimensions: (1) contrast-ratio and (2) nonuniformity. Assuming ideal hardware response, the modified CORT-X architecture performs better than the original model. Moderate contrast does not significantly degrade network performance, while nonuniformities as small as 10 degrade performance even for high CNR.© (1991) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
An Early Social Engagement Intervention for Young Children with Autism and their Parents

The social vulnerabilities associated with young children with autism are recognized as important intervention targets due to their influence on subsequent development. Current research suggests that interventions that combine motivational and social components can create meaningful changes in social functioning. Simultaneously, it is hypothesized that parent delivery of such strategies can invoke increases in these core social behaviors and parent engagement. This study examined the effects of teaching parents to implement a social engagement intervention with their children. The results indicated that the use of this parent-delivered social intervention led to (a) increases in their children's use of eye contact, directed positive affect, and verbal initiations, (b) increases in parent positive affect and synchronous engagement, and (c) generalized increases in parent and child behaviors.
Rab3D, a small GTP-binding protein implicated in regulated secretion, is associated with the transcytotic pathway in rat hepatocytes.

Abstract Rab3 isotypes are expressed in regulated secretory cells. Here, we report that rab3D is also expressed in rat hepatocytes, classic models for constitutive secretion. Using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) with primers specific for rat rab3D, we amplified a 151 base pair rab3D fragment from total RNA extracted from primary cultures of rat hepatocytes. Immunoblot analysis using polyclonal antibodies to peptides representing the N- and C-terminal hypervariable regions of murine rab3D recognized a protein of ∼25 kd in hepatocyte lysates, hepatic subcellular fractions, and tissue extracts. The distribution of rab3D was primarily cytosolic; however, only membrane-associated rab3D significantly bound guanosine triphosphate (GTP) in overlay assays. Several lines of investigation indicate that rab3D is associated with the transcytotic pathway. First, rab3D was enriched in a crude vesicle carrier fraction (CVCF), which includes transcytotic carriers. Vesicular compartments immunoisolated from the CVCF on magnetic beads coated with anti-rab3D antibody were enriched in the transcytosed form of the polymeric IgA receptor (pIgA-R), but lacked not only the pIgA-R precursor form associated with the secretory pathway, but also a Golgi marker protein. Second, indirect immunofluorescence on frozen liver sections and in polarized cultured hepatocytes localized rab3D-positive sites at or near the apical plasma membrane and to the pericanalicular cytoplasm. Finally, cholestasis induced by bile duct ligation (BDL), a manipulation known to slow transcytosis, caused rab3D to accumulate in the pericanalicular cytoplasm of cholestatic hepatocytes. Our results indicate that rab3D plays a role in the regulation of apically directed transcytosis in rat hepatocytes. (Hepatology 2000;32:348-356.)
Proteolytic Cleavage of Versican During Limb Joint Development

Versican is highly expressed in developing joint interzones during limb morphogenesis. This study was undertaken to examine whether proteolytic cleavage of versican occurs that could potentially impact its function during the process of embryonic synovial joint formation. Using an antibody to the DPEAAE neoepitope generated by ADAMTS proteolysis, versican amino terminal cleavage fragments were detected in joint interzones at 12-16 days post coitum (dpc). ADAMTS-1 localization overlapped that of DPEAAE-reactive versican fragments suggesting it as one possible protease activity involved in processing of versican in the interzone. Results show that increased cleavage of versican in the interzone accompanies cavitation and suggests that proteolytic modification of versican may be important during the process of synovial joint maturation.
Habitat use and resource tracking by African Ceratogymna hornbills: implications for seed dispersal and forest conservation

Conservation of tropical forests requires an understanding of the seasonal patterns of abundance and distribution of important seed dispersers. In the forests of Central Africa, three species of hornbills in the genus Ceratogymna (Aves: Bucerotidae) provide dispersal for over 50 species of trees and lianas, yet their ecology is poorly known. We present the first empirical evidence for resource tracking and large-scale movements by two of these species, which were previously considered resident. Hornbill numbers and fruit production were estimated over a one-year period in the Dja Reserve, Cameroon. Monthly abundances of C. atrata and C. cylindricus varied four- and 12-fold, respectively, and were predicted by community fruit availability as measured by fruitfall on a 4.3 km trail. In contrast, C. fistulator abundances varied little and were not related to fruit availability. Synchronous population fluctuations in sites 22 km distant were observed for atrata and cylindricus, but not for fistulator. Together, these results indicate that atrata and cylindricus populations track fruit resources via seasonal emigrations, while the fistulator population appears to be relatively sedentary. Comparisons of hornbill densities in primary and secondary forests suggest that they are important dispersers in both habitats, and will likely play larger roles in central African forest regeneration as more vulnerable seed dispersers are removed by hunting. If large seasonal movements of hornbills turn out to be a general phenomenon, effective management of central African forest reserves will require greater emphasis on reserve connectivity and on seasonal and spatial patterns of fruit production.
Hydrogels that allow and facilitate bone repair, remodeling, and regeneration

Bone defects can originate from a variety of causes, including trauma, cancer, congenital deformity, and surgical reconstruction. Success of the current “gold standard” treatment (i.e., autologous bone grafts) is greatly influenced by insufficient or inappropriate bone stock. There is thus a critical need for the development of new, engineered materials for bone repair. This review describes the use of natural and synthetic hydrogels as scaffolds for bone tissue engineering. We discuss many of the advantages that hydrogels offer as bone repair materials, including their potential for osteoconductivity, biodegradability, controlled growth factor release, and cell encapsulation. We also discuss the use of hydrogels in composite devices with metals, ceramics, or polymers. These composites are useful because of the low mechanical moduli of hydrogels. Finally, the potential for thermosetting and photo-cross-linked hydrogels as three-dimensionally (3D) printed, patient-specific devices is highlighted. Three-dimensional printing enables controlled spatial distribution of scaffold materials, cells, and growth factors. Hydrogels, especially natural hydrogels present in bone matrix, have great potential to augment existing bone tissue engineering devices for the treatment of critical size bone defects.
Memory technologies and data recorder design

Missions, both near Earth and deep space, are under consideration that will require data recorder capacities of such magnitude as to be unthinkable just a few years ago. Concepts requiring well over 16,000 GB of storage are being studied. To achieve this capacity via “normal means” was considered incredible as recently as 2004. This paper is presented in two parts. Part I describes the analysis of data recorder capacities for missions as far back as 35 years and provides a projection of data capacities required 20 years from now based upon missions either nearing launch, or in the planning stage.
Matrix metalloproteinase-9 inhibition ameliorates pathogenesis and improves skeletal muscle regeneration in muscular dystrophy

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a fatal X-linked genetic disorder of skeletal muscle caused by mutation in dystrophin gene. Although the degradation of skeletal muscle extracellular matrix, inflammation and fibrosis are the common pathological features in DMD, the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. In this study, we have investigated the role and the mechanisms by which increased levels of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) protein causes myopathy in dystrophin-deficient mdx mice. The levels of MMP-9 but not tissue inhibitor of MMPs were drastically increased in skeletal muscle of mdx mice. Besides skeletal muscle, infiltrating macrophages were found to contribute significantly to the elevated levels of MMP-9 in dystrophic muscle. In vivo administration of a nuclear factor-kappa B inhibitory peptide, NBD, blocked the expression of MMP-9 in dystrophic muscle of mdx mice. Deletion of Mmp9 gene in mdx mice improved skeletal muscle structure and functions and reduced muscle injury, inflammation and fiber necrosis. Inhibition of MMP-9 increased the levels of cytoskeletal protein β-dystroglycan and neural nitric oxide synthase and reduced the amounts of caveolin-3 and transforming growth factor-β in myofibers of mdx mice. Genetic ablation of MMP-9 significantly augmented the skeletal muscle regeneration in mdx mice. Finally, pharmacological inhibition of MMP-9 activity also ameliorated skeletal muscle pathogenesis and enhanced myofiber regeneration in mdx mice. Collectively, our study suggests that the increased production of MMP-9 exacerbates dystrophinopathy and MMP-9 represents as one of the most promising therapeutic targets for the prevention of disease progression in DMD.
Cooperative Caching in Wireless P2P Networks: Design, Implementation, and Evaluation

Some recent studies have shown that cooperative cache can improve the system performance in wireless P2P networks such as ad hoc networks and mesh networks. However, all these studies are at a very high level, leaving many design and implementation issues unanswered. In this paper, we present our design and implementation of cooperative cache in wireless P2P networks, and propose solutions to find the best place to cache the data. We propose a novel asymmetric cooperative cache approach, where the data requests are transmitted to the cache layer on every node, but the data replies are only transmitted to the cache layer at the intermediate nodes that need to cache the data. This solution not only reduces the overhead of copying data between the user space and the kernel space, it also allows data pipelines to reduce the end-to-end delay. We also study the effects of different MAC layers, such as 802.11-based ad hoc networks and multi-interface-multichannel-based mesh networks, on the performance of cooperative cache. Our results show that the asymmetric approach outperforms the symmetric approach in traditional 802.11-based ad hoc networks by removing most of the processing overhead. In mesh networks, the asymmetric approach can significantly reduce the data access delay compared to the symmetric approach due to data pipelines.
Insight from studies with recombinant fibrinogens.

Abstract: Using a two-step cloning strategy, we have synthesized more than 20 variant human fibrinogens for biochemical studies. In preliminary experiments we showed that normal fibrinogen produced in CHO cells serves as an accurate model for plasma fibrinogen. We focus here on those variants whose characterization has provided insight into the mechanism of thrombin-catalyzed polymerization. Analysis of N-terminal variants showed that thrombin specificity dictates the ordered release of fibrinopeptides. Nevertheless, analysis of C-terminal variants indicated that fibrinopeptide B (FpB) release is dependent on polymerization. Changes in the a polymerization site and the high-affinity calcium-binding site were associated with a complete loss of polymerization. These experiments showed that alterations in the calcium-binding site influenced function of the a site; in contrast, alterations in the a site did not alter calcium binding. Analysis of variants in the N-terminus of the Bβ chain provided the first direct evidence that this region impacts predominantly on lateral aggregation, as has long been presumed. These experiments also suggested that lateral aggregation facilitated by this region proceeds without the release of FpB. From these studies we learned that individual sites within fibrinogen do not function in isolation. We conclude that thrombin-catalyzed polymerization is mediated by a continuum of concerted interactions.
PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT OF BROILER CHICKENS GIVEN MUSHROOM EXTRACT ALONE OR IN COMBINATION WITH PROBIOTICS

A study was conducted to evaluate the effect of combined Shiitake mushroom (Lentinus edodes) extract with probiotics (PrimaLac) on the growth and health of broiler chickens. In trial 1, 540 d-of-hatch chicks were randomly assigned to 6 treatment groups, replicated 3 times, with 15 males and 15 females per pen for 3 wk. Dietary probiotics and mushroom treatments were as follows: 1) control feed + ad libitum tap water; 2) control feed + skip-a-day mushroom water; 3) control feed + ad libitum mushroom water; 4) probiotic feed + ad libitum tap water; 5) probiotic feed + skip-a-day mushroom water; 6) probiotic feed + ad libitum mushroom water. Body weight gain, feed consumption and efficiency, mortality, bursa, liver, and spleen relative weights of chicks were taken. In trial 2, the performance of broilers 3 to 7 wk withdrawn from the mushroom extract was evaluated along with the comparative level of fecal biofidobacteria in the control and mushroom extract treatment (trt). Mortality, weight gain, feed consumption and efficiency, carcass yield, fat pads, bursa weights and fecal bifidobacteria were measured in trial 2. In trial 1, significant differences (P < 0.05) in female weight gain (trt 4-0.62 vs. trt 1-0.54 kg) and male spleen weights were observed. In trial 2, significant differences were observed in male weight gain (trt 2-2.40 vs. trt 4-1.12 kg), male and female fat pads, male bursa weights (trt 3-0.15 vs. trt 6-0.39), female carcass yield percentage (trt 1-77.8 vs. trt 4-66.4), and feed consumption and efficiency. Body weights were severely depressed in the male broilers receiving the probiotics feed in treatments 4, 5, and 6, but not in the female broilers. These results indicate that performance differences in gender occur with additives during different grow-out periods, and mushroom extract promotes bifidobacteria growth in broiler chickens after 4 wk of withdrawal. It appears that probiotics and mushroom extract offered no combination potential for weight gain, which was compromised in this study, but possible health-enhanced attributes.
Right ventricular volumes in pulmonic valve disease

1. 1. Right ventricular end-diastolic volume and forward stroke volume/end-diastolic volume ratio was measured in 18 patients with pulmonic valve disease, utilizing the thermodilution method and the Fick principle. 2. 2. Individuals with pulmonic stenosis had normal end-diastolic volume (120 ± 28 ml./M.2) and normal forward stroke volume/-end-diastolic volume ratio (0.40 ± 0.06). 3. 3. Pulmonic insufficiency was found to be associated with a significantly (p < 0.05) increased end-diastolic volume (171 ± 49 ml./-M.2) and a low forward stroke volume/end-diastolic volume ratio (0.33 ± 0.10). 4. 4. The increase in end-diastolic volume with pulmonic regurgitation is considerably less than has been observed to occur in aortic insufficiency, and it is suggested that this is a reflection of the low driving force for regurgitation from the pulmonary artery. 5. 5. The findings provide further evidence that pulmonic insufficiency associated with normal pulmonary arterial pressure appears to be a comparatively benign lesion.
2C-5 Simplification of High Frame Rate Imaging System with Coordinate Rotation

A method to greatly simplify the high-frame-rate (HFR) imaging system using a rotation of coordinates in image reconstruction was developed. A theory of Fourier image reconstruction was also developed and both in vitro (on an ATS539 tissue-mimicking phantom) and in vivo (on a human heart) experiments were performed to verify the theory.
Racial Context, Black Immigration and the U.S. Black/White Health Disparity

The United States' black/white health gap is an important consequence of racial inequality. The gap is large, shows little signs of declining, and explanations have been limited by lack of theory and data. A new direction that offers potential for theoretical development is a focus on black immigrants, a group that shares the same racial status as U.S.-born blacks but experiences significantly better health. Using new data on the 2000-2002 National Health Interview Surveys, we disaggregate black immigrants by region of birth and develop a thesis that emphasizes the interplay of selectivity and racial context of origin for understanding health disparities among black Americans, namely that majority white contexts have deleterious health effects. The results indicate that grouping together foreign born blacks conceals important health differentials among this population. Compared to U.S.-born blacks, black immigrants from minority white (Africa, South America) and racially mixed (West Indies) regions have superior health, while those from majority white (Europe) regions fare no better. A similar gradient exists among black immigrants, with Africans faring the best, followed by South Americans, then West Indians, with European blacks having the poorest health. Though these findings are not the definitive test of our theory, they are suggestive. They point us to understanding the mechanisms in the United States - racial context - that worsen the health and well being of black Americans, foreign and native-born alike.
Reflective Practices Among Language Arts Teachers: The Use of Weblogs

Reflection is considered an important aspect of teacher practice. Researchers examined 21 teacher-created language arts blogs to determine whether randomly selected entries within the blogs demonstrated reflection on professional practice. In addition, entries were examined to determine the depth of reflective practice. The amount and depth of reflective practice was measured by a researcher-created rubric. Results indicated that all language arts teachers in the study used their blogs as reflective journals and that the depth of reflection occurring in the blogs varied from casual reflection (i.e., regarding the proceedings of the school day) to metareflective posts that could lead to changes in practice.
Modeling and Experimental Study of Simultaneous Creep and Transformation in Polycrystalline High-Temperature Shape Memory Alloys:

The viscoplastic behavior in high-temperature shape memory alloys and its interaction with the transformation behavior is investigated in this work. Standard creep tests and isobaric transformation-induced tests were conducted for a TiPdNi high-temperature shape memory alloy on a uniaxial frame fitted with a custom high-temperature setup. Motivated by the experimental observations indicating simultaneous creep and phase transformation, a 1D constitutive model is presented that aims to capture the coexistence of the rate-independent transformation and the rate-dependent viscoplastic behavior. Based on continuum thermodynamics, the evolution equations for forward and reverse transformation and viscoplasticity are properly chosen. The material parameters needed for the model calibration are identified from the experimental data. The predicted material response by the proposed constitutive model is in good agreement with the experimental results.
Focal Transmural Necrotic Tracheitis in Commerical Meat Turkeys

SUMMARY. This report describes an unusual presentation of severe focal necrotic tracheitis in a flock of 8-wk-old commercial turkeys. The flock was kept on a range that is located near a cotton field. The cotton field had been chemically defoliated 2 wk before the birds were submitted for necropsy. At necropsy, most of the birds had a 1-cm, yellow–white constricture in the upper third of the trachea at which the lumen was partially occluded by necrotic tissue. Microscopically, there was severe, transmural necrosis with an accumulation of inflammatory exudate in the tracheal lumen and numerous bacteria within the necrotic debris, mucosa, and lamina propria. Mixed bacteria were isolated from the trachea. No viruses were detected. Neither abnormal heavy metal concentrations in the liver nor paraquat in the respiratory tract were detected. The exact cause of this severe, necrotic tracheitis was not determined. Based on the clinical history and laboratory findings, it was concluded that a combination of a toxi...
Attribution-based Anomaly Detection: Trustworthiness in an Online Community

This paper conceptualizes human trustworthiness1 as a key component for countering insider threats in an online community within the arena of corporate personnel security. Employees with access and authority have the most potential to cause damage to that information, to organizational reputation, or to the operational stability of the organization. The basic mechanisms of detecting changes in the trustworthiness of an individual who holds a key position in an organization resides in the observations of overt behavior – including communications behavior – over time. “Trustworthiness” is defined as the degree of correspondence between communicated intentions and behavioral outcomes that are observed over time [27], [25]. This is the degree to which the correspondence between the target’s words and actions remain reliable, ethical and consistent, and any fluctuation does not exceed observer’s expectations over time [10]. To be able to tell if the employee is trustworthy is thus determined by the subjective perceptions from individuals in his/her social network that have direct business functional connections, and thus the opportunity to repeatedly observe the correspondence between communications and behavior. The ability to correlate data-centric attributions, as observed changes in behavior from human perceptions; as analogous to “sensors” on the network, is the key to countering insider threats.
Fate of Aneurysmal Common Iliac Artery Landing Zones Used for Endovascular Aneurysm Repair

Purpose: To determine outcomes of aneurysmal common iliac arteries (aCIA) used for landing zones (LZs) during endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). Methods: This single-center study retrospectively compared 57 EVAR patients (mean age 72±8 years; 56 men) with 70 aCIAs (diameter ≥20 mm) to 25 control EVAR subjects (mean age 73±7 years; 20 men) with 50 normal (≤15-mm) CIA LZs treated consecutively during the same time interval. The CIA LZ measurements were analyzed using random effects linear mixed models to determine diameter change over time. Life tables were used to estimate freedom from endoleak, reintervention, and all-cause mortality. Results: The mean maximum preoperative CIA diameter in the aCIA LZ group was 24.8±4.5 mm (range 20.0–47.3, median 23.9) vs 13.6±1.5 mm (range 9.2–15.0, median 13.9; p<0.001) in the controls. Nineteen aCIA LZs were treated outside the instructions for use of the device. Median follow-up in the aCIAs LZ cohort was 39.2 months [interquartile range (IQR) 15, 61] vs 49.3 months...
Plant genotype influences aquatic‐terrestrial ecosystem linkages through timing and composition of insect emergence

Terrestrial leaf litter provides aquatic insects with an energy source and habitat structure,and species differences in litter can influence aquatic insect emergence. Emerging insects also provide energy to riparian predators. We hypothesized that plant genetics would influence the composition and timing of emerging insect communities among individual genotypes of Populus angustifolia varying in litter traits. We also compared the composition and timing of emerging insect communities on litter from mixed genotypes of three cross types of a hybridizing cottonwood complex: P. angustifolia, P. fremontii, and their F1 hybrids. Using litter harvested from an experimental common garden, we measured emerging insect community composition, abundance, and production for 12 weeks in large litter packs affixed with emergence traps. Five major findings emerged. (1) In support of the genetic similarity hypothesis, we found that, among P. angustifolia tree genotypes, litter from more closely related genotypes had more similar litter thickness, nitrogen concentrations, decomposition rates, and emerging insect communities. (2) Genetic similarity was not correlated with other litter traits, although the litter fungal community was a strong predictor of emerging insect communities. (3) Litter decomposition rate, which was the strongest predictor of emerging aquatic insect communities, was influenced by litter thickness, litter N, and the litter fungal community. (4) In contrast to strong community composition differences among P. angustifolia genotypes, differences in community composition between P. fremontii and P. angustifolia were only marginally significant, and communities on F1 hybrids were indistinguishable from P. angustifolia despite genetic and litter trait differences. (5) Mixed litter packs muted the genetic effects observed in litter packs con- sisting of single genotypes. These results demonstrate that the genetic structure of riparian forests can affect the composition and timing of aquatic insect emergence. Because many riparian trees are clonal, including P. angustifolia, large clone size is likely to result in patches of genetically structured leaf litter that may influence the timing and composition of insect emergence within watersheds. Riparian restoration efforts incorporating different tree genotypes could also influence the biodiversity of emerging aquatic insects. Our work illustrates the importance of plant genes for community and ecosystem processes in riparian corridors.
The Predictive Value of 2,-4, Dinitrochlorobenzene Skin Testing in Patients with Bilharzial Bladder Cancer

A group of 40 patients with bilharzial bladder cancer underwent quantitative skin testing with dinitrochlorobenzene and purified protein derivative of tuberculin before radical surgery. Correlations were made between various clinical parameters, patient outcome, skin test results and pathologic changes in the resected bladder and draining lymph nodes. Striking associations between dinitrochlorobenzene responses and tumor stage, tumor recurrence and several specific parameters of lymph node stimulation were found, while no correlations were made with the pathologic grade, size or type of tumor, degree of schistosomal infestation or tumor bed inflammation. Purified protein derivative responses showed no correlation with any parameter examined. Patient outcome also showed a good correlation with tumor stage and draining lymph node reaction. These findings indicate that dinitrochlorobenzene skin testing as a presumptive test of cell-mediated immunity may represent a good predictor of clinical outcome in patients with bilharzial bladder cancer, and correlates well with draining lymph node stimulation.
Negotiation Styles Among American Purchasing Managers: An Empirical Study

This study explored the negotiation styles among American purchasing managers to determine the most dominant one. Further, the study examined relationships between purchasing manager’s negotiation styles and selected personal and organizational characteristics that affect negotiation process. The results of study revealed that the collaborative style is the most dominant one. It was also found that there are significant relationships between purchasing managers’ negotiation styles and certain personal and organizational characteristics.
Talking to our selves: Reflection, ignorance, and agency

In his thought-provoking Talking to Our Selves, John M. Doris sets out to do two things. First, he responds to a question that has garnered some attention in recent philosophical literature: to wha...
Asymptotic ε-Nash Equilibrium for 2nd Order Two-Player Nonzero-sum Singular LQ Games with Decentralized Control

Abstract We propose a new equilibrium concept: asymptotic e-Nash equilibrium for 2***nd order two-player nonzero-sum games where each player has a control-free cost functional quadratic in the system states over an infinite horizon and each player's control strategy is constrained to be continuous linear state feedback. Based on each player's singular control problem, the asymptotic e-Nash equilibrium implemented by partial state feedback is constructed and the feedback gains can be found by solving a group of algebraic equations which involves the system coefficients and weighting matrices in the cost functionals. As an illustration of the theories discussed in this paper, a numerical example is given where the partial state feedback gains can be found explicitly in terms of the system coefficients and weighting matrices in the cost functionals.
EXAFS of Disordered Systems

The basic theoretical foundation for condensed matter physics is well known. The Schrodinger equation of electrons and nuclei with the Coulomb interaction and relativistic corrections such as the spin-orbit interaction contains all of the basic physics. The complication in applying this basic knowledge is the large number of particles involved, of the order of 1023. To reduce this problem to a manageable size, simplifying assumptions or approximations are required. Usually, the initial assumption is the structure of the matter. For example, the knowledge that crystalline solids have a periodic array of atoms permits the exploitation of the periodicity to reduce the number of particles from 1023down to the order of 1, namely, the ion cores and the valence electrons in a unit cell. In disordered systems the structure is more complicated since the long-range periodicity is absent, but knowledge of structure is still a basic requirement for any detailed understanding of their properties. For crystalline samples, diffraction, using sources with wavelengths of the order of 1A, is the extremely productive technique by which to determine the long-range order. Sources typically used for diffraction are x-rays, neutrons, and electrons.
Biosafety, Occupational Health and Nanotechnology:

Nanotechnology promises to improve the quality of human life, but it has also provoked concerns about potential adverse health effects on workers, the environment and consumers. Effective risk assessment and risk management of nanotechnology requires: 1) knowing how engineered nanoscale particles (NPs) can gain entry into the human body (routes of exposure); 2) knowing whether engineered NPs can migrate from their point of entry to other locations in the body (translocation); 3) determining what adverse biological effects may occur in response to engineered NP exposure (toxicity); 4) knowing which measurement of exposure and dose correlates best to toxicity (exposure and dose metrics); and 5) knowing how best to monitor exposed populations to detect the occurrence of any adverse health effects (health surveillance). This article reviews what is currently known about potential health risks to workers from exposure to engineered NPs, as well as the best methods to control those risks, in order to ensure tha...
Aurora kinase A is a biomarker for bladder cancer detection and contributes to its aggressive behavior

The effects of AURKA overexpression associated with poor clinical outcomes have been attributed to increased cell cycle progression and the development of genomic instability with aneuploidy. We used RNA interference to examine the effects of AURKA overexpression in human bladder cancer cells. Knockdown had minimal effects on cell proliferation but blocked tumor cell invasion. Whole genome mRNA expression profiling identified nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) as a downstream target that was repressed by AURKA. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and NNMT promoter luciferase assays revealed that AURKA’s effects on NNMT were caused by PAX3-mediated transcriptional repression and overexpression of NNMT blocked tumor cell invasion in vitro. Overexpression of AURKA and activation of its downstream pathway was enriched in the basal subtype in primary human tumors and was associated with poor clinical outcomes. We also show that the FISH test for the AURKA gene copy number in urine yielded a specificity of 79.7% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 74.2% to 84.1%), and a sensitivity of 79.6% (95% CI = 74.2% to 84.1%) with an AUC of 0.901 (95% CI = 0.872 to 0.928; P < 0.001). These results implicate AURKA as an effective biomarker for bladder cancer detection as well as therapeutic target especially for its basal type.
Walking the Talk: Expectations and Intentions of a Popular Education Workshop.

Popular education programs allow for collective agenda setting and flexibility, and also to carefully and respectfully design activities that bring in all voices and level the power in the room. Po...
Natriuretic Peptides in Heart Failure: Atrial and B-type Natriuretic Peptides

The natriuretic peptides play a vital role in normal physiology and as counter-regulatory hormones in heart failure (HF). Clinical assessment of their levels (for B-type natriuretic peptide [BNP], N-terminal proBNP, and the midregion of N-terminal pro-atrial natriuretic peptide) have become valuable tools in diagnosing patients with HF as well as risk stratifying and guiding therapy. Their roles have further expanded beyond HF to other cardiovascular conditions and for risk stratification in asymptomatic individuals. Understanding the clinical use of these hormones is vital to achieving their full potential.
Superior semicircular canal dehiscence: Diagnosis and management

The authors provide an update on the clinical manifestations, diagnosis and various approaches to the treatment of superior semicircular canal dehiscence (SSCD). SSCD is a rare condition where the bone overlying the superior semicircular canal thins or dehisces causing characteristic clinical findings. Since this was first reported in 1998 by Minor and colleagues, there has been much advancement made in terms of diagnosis and treatment. Signs and symptoms include a wide variation of both vestibular and auditory manifestations. Diagnosis made solely on clinical signs is difficult due to how varied the presentations can be and the overlap with other otologic pathologies. High-resolution CT temporal scans have been the standard in confirming superior semicircular canal dehiscence, however, MRI FIESTA scans have recently been used to image SSCD. Additionally, audiometry and vestibular evoked myogenic potential (VEMP) testing are useful screening tools. Currently, the middle fossa approach is the most common and standard surgical approach to repair SSCD. The transmastoid, endoscopic and transcanal or endaural approaches have also been recently utilized. Presently, there is no consensus as to the best approach, material or technique for repair of SSCD. As we learn more, newer and less invasive approaches and techniques are being used to treat SSCD. We present a comprehensive review of SSCD, including clinical symptoms and presentation, histopathology, diagnosis, treatment strategies and outcomes of intervention.
Use of venovenous ECMO for neonatal and pediatric ECMO: a decade of experience at a tertiary children’s hospital

Advances in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) have led to increased use of venovenous (VV) ECMO in the pediatric population. We present the evolution and experience of pediatric VV ECMO at a tertiary care institution. A retrospective cohort study from 01/2005 to 07/2016 was performed, comparing by cannulation mode. Survival to discharge, complications, and decannulation analyses were performed. In total, 160 patients (105 NICU, 55 PICU) required 13 ± 11 days of ECMO. VV cannulation was used primarily in 83 patients with 64% survival, while venoarterial (VA) ECMO was used in 77 patients with 54% survival. Overall, 74% of patients (n = 118) were successfully decannulated; 57% survived to discharge. VA ECMO had a higher rate of intra-cranial hemorrhage than VV (22 vs 9%, p = 0.003). Sixteen VA patients (21%) had radiographic evidence of a cerebral ischemic insult. No cardiac complications occurred with the use of dual-lumen VV cannulas. There were no differences in complications (p = 0.40) or re-operations (p = 0.85) between the VV and VA groups. Dual-lumen VV ECMO can be safely performed with appropriate image guidance, is associated with a lower rate of intra-cranial hemorrhage, and may be the preferred first-line mode of ECMO support in appropriately selected NICU and PICU patients. II.
Mucosal-Associated Invariant T Cells in Chronic Inflammatory Liver Disease.

The broadening field of microbiome research has led to a substantial reappraisal of the gut–liver axis and its role in chronic liver disease. The liver is a central immunologic organ that is continuously exposed to food and microbial-derived antigens from the gastrointestinal tract. Mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are enriched in the human liver and can be activated by inflammatory cytokines and microbial antigens. In chronic inflammatory liver disease, MAIT cells are depleted suggesting an impaired MAIT cell-dependent protection against bacterial infections.
Compassionate Bureaucracy: Assuming the Administrative Burden of Policy Implementation:

The lens of administration burden is used to examine the behavior of nonprofit organizations when managing regulations attached to public funding and public policy implementation. Interviews with l...
Antiinflammatory Therapy in Clinical Care: The CANTOS Trial and Beyond

Inflammation is a critical pathway in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Previous studies have shown that plasma levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), a marker of inflammation, are associated with cardiovascular disease independent of traditional risk factors. Randomized trial data have also shown that statins reduce not only hsCRP but also cardiovascular event rates independent of their effect on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) level. More recently, the CANTOS trial showed that directly reducing inflammation with canakinumab, an interleukin (IL)-1β neutralizing monoclonal antibody, could also reduce cardiovascular event rates. These mark the first phase 3 trial results validating inflammation as a viable target for preventing cardiovascular disease. In this review, we recap the role of inflammation in cardiovascular disease and highlight previous trial data showing its modulation with statins and other agents. We also detail the CANTOS trial results and discuss its implications for clinicians as well as future directions for anti-inflammatory therapy in the prevention of cardiovascular disease.
False legitimation through political corporate social responsibility

Recent academic discussion of corporate social responsibility has identified a political shift in corporate societal roles. Politicization of corporations has been connected with globalization and ...
A bibliometric analysis of the interdisciplinary field of cultural evolution

The science of cultural evolution is unified in its application of evolutionary logic to socially transmitted behavior, but diverse in methodologies and assumptions. Qualitative reviews have encouraged integration by illuminating points of divergence and fostering interaction. This effort would be greatly enhanced by quantitative data on patterns of collaboration and idea sharing in the literature. In the present study, we apply a novel combination of network, cluster, and bibliometric analyses to an extensive dataset of publications on cultural evolution, in order to represent the structure of the field and evaluate the level of disciplinary integration. We first construct a co-authorship network and identify subdisciplines. We then use bibliometric analyses to describe each subdiscipline and investigate trends in collaboration and productivity. Lastly, we assess the topographical distance and degree of citation sharing between subdisciplines, as well as the diversity of subject categories within subdisciplines. Our results reveal an increase in productivity and collaboration over time, albeit a higher inequality in author productivity than expected. Our structural approach reveals research subcommunities with differential levels of integration, citation sharing, and subject diversity. These findings confirm the emergence of a vigorous interdisciplinary field, and indicate ways to foster integration and synthesis in cultural evolution.
Practical regio- and stereoselective azidation and amination of terminal alkenes

There is significant interest in developing more rapid and efficient production of nitrogen-containing allylic compounds, as widely used in various syntheses. This work reports a variety of allylic azides and allylic amines synthesized by an efficient, new one-pot protocol that employs readily available terminal alkenes as starting materials. This method is highly regio- and stereoselective, affording the linear (E)-isomer, under metal-free conditions. This process tolerates several functional groups including halogen-containing molecules; it is general for azides and amine nucleophiles; and, adducts were obtained in good yields.
Overcoming the Rejection of Changing Sales Force Technologies Through Managerial Support: An Abstract

Prior literature has shown that the acceptance of new technologies can improve the long-term performance of sales forces and firms. However, new technologies are likely to introduce obstacles to acceptance, especially for those technologies that represent a massive change for the user. Sales force members who drastically change their work processes in order to integrate a technology sacrifice both time and effort and may be distracted from their primary goals (e.g., hitting deadlines or sales goals). Thus, we investigate how perceived technological change can negatively moderate individual motives to accept a new technology. Furthermore, we analyze how managerial support can help overcome the acceptance issues caused by perceived technological change.