cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The impact of dissolved inorganic nitrogen and phosphorous on responses of microbial plankton to the Texas City “Y” oil spill in Galveston Bay, Texas (USA)

Ongoing bioremediation research seeks to promote naturally occurring microbial polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) degradation during and after oil spill events. However, complex relationships among functionally different microbial groups, nutrients and PAHs remain unconstrained. We conducted a surface water survey and corresponding nutrient amendment bioassays following the Texas City "Y" oil spill in Galveston Bay, Texas. Resident microbial groups, defined as either heterotrophic or autotrophic were enumerated by flow cytometry. Heterotrophic abundance was increased by oil regardless of nutrient concentrations. Contrastingly, autotrophic abundance was inhibited by oil, but this reaction was less severe when nutrient concentrations were higher. Several PAH compounds were reduced in nutrient amended treatments relative to controls suggesting nutrient enhanced microbial PAH processing. These findings provide a first-look at nutrient limitation during microbial oil processing in Galveston Bay, an important step in understanding if nutrient additions would be a useful bioremediation strategy in this and other estuarine systems.
Resurgence of cucurbit downy mildew in the United States: Insights from comparative genomic analysis of Pseudoperonospora cubensis.

Pseudoperonospora cubensis, the causal agent of cucurbit downy mildew (CDM), is known to exhibit host specialization. The virulence of different isolates of the pathogen can be classified into pathotypes based on their compatibility with a differential set composed of specific cucurbit host types. However, the genetic basis of host specialization within P. cubensis is not yet known. Total genomic DNA extracted from nine isolates of P. cubensis collected from 2008 to 2013 from diverse cucurbit host types (Cucumis sativus, C. melo var. reticulatus, Cucurbita maxima, C. moschata, C. pepo, and Citrullus lanatus) in the United States were subjected to whole-genome sequencing. Comparative analysis of these nine genomes confirmed the presence of two distinct evolutionary lineages (lineages I and II) of P. cubensis. Many fixed polymorphisms separated lineage I comprising isolates from Cucurbita pepo, C. moschata, and Citrullus lanatus from lineage II comprising isolates from Cucumis spp. and Cucurbita maxima. Phenotypic characterization showed that lineage II isolates were of the A1 mating type and belonged to pathotypes 1 and 3 that were not known to be present in the United States prior to the resurgence of CDM in 2004. The association of lineage II isolates with the new pathotypes and a lack of genetic diversity among these isolates suggest that lineage II of P. cubensis is associated with the resurgence of CDM on cucumber in the United States.
The Size of Red Blood Cells Regulates the Extent of Pulmonary Capillary Diameter Effect on Pulmonary Gas Exchange Process

The efficiency of the pulmonary gas exchange process is of great importance for human body homeostasis. In this paper, effect of two important factors, namely pulmonary capillary diameter and red blood cells (RBCs) surface area, on the efficiency of this process is studied. To this purpose, a previously published model consisting of a 2-D geometry is adopted to simulate the system. Results show that simultaneous increase of the pulmonary capillary diameter and RBC surface area synergistically increases oxygen saturation time of RBCs. Furthermore, we show that the efficiency of the system enhances by increasing RBC surface area and decreasing pulmonary capillary diameter. We identified that the type of influence that pulmonary capillary exerts to the systems efficiency depends on the value of RBC surface area. Results of this study highlight the importance of RBC viable surface area in the process of pulmonary gas exchange.
Cylindrical Lenses and Vials

Objectives 1. Develop basic skills to identify, classify, and handle cylindrical thin and thick lenses. 2. Develop basic skills to make “at-a-glance” cylindrical lens characterization. 3. Determine the focal length of converging and diverging cylindrical lenses. 4. Determine the refractive index of the material from which a cylindrical vial is made. 5. Determine the refractive index of a liquid using a cylindrical vial. 6. Measure the spherical aberration of a cylindrical lens. 7. Formulate the limitations of the studied experimental techniques. Background Cylindrical Lenses Cylindrical lenses (Fig. 14.1) are special types of lenses used in the field of optometry to correct astigmatism, in novel visual displays, and in many other modern optical applications. A cylindrical lens lacks rotational symmetry about its optical axis and, as a consequence, has asymmetric focusing properties. As we already know, the ideal spherical lens produces a point image of a point object (for this reason a spherical lens is said to be stigmatic ). In contrast to this, a cylindrical lens produces a line image of a point object. Because of this, a cylindrical lens is astigmatic . Consider the cross-sections of a cylindrical lens in planes XZ and YZ as shown in Fig. 14.1. The cross-section in plane YZ is rectangular, while the cross-section in plane XZ is part of a circle. These cross-sections have different imaging properties. If we consider a point light source in the XZ and YZ planes, then the XZ cross-section acts as a spherical lens (Fig. 14.2a) and the YZ cross-section as a plane parallel plate (Fig. 14.2b). Now we understand why a cylindrical lens produces a line image of a point light source , as shown in Fig. 14.3. It should be noted that all the equations derived for spherical lenses can also be applied to cylindrical lenses, but only for the plane cross-section ( XZ shown in Fig. 14.1–14.3). With a certain degree of caution, the information you applied to spherical lenses and parallel plates can also be applied in experiments with cylindrical lenses.
Comparisons of Multivariate CUSUM Charts

We consider several distinct approaches for controlling the mean of a multivariate normal process including two new and distinct multivariate CUSUM charts, several multiple univariate CUSUM charts, and a Shewhart x2 control chart. The performances of th..
Toll-like receptors in liver disease

Activation of inflammatory signaling pathways is of central importance in the pathogenesis of alcoholic liver disease (ALD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Recent studies demonstrated that Toll-like receptors, the sensors of microbial and endogenous danger signals, are expressed and activated in innate immune cells as well as in parenchymal cells in the liver and thereby contribute to ALD and NASH. In this review, we emphasize the importance of gut-derived endotoxin and its recognition by TLR4 in the liver. The significance of TLR-induced intracellular signaling pathways and cytokine production as well as the contribution of individual cell types to the inflammation is evaluated. The contribution of TLR signaling to the induction of liver fibrosis and to the progression of liver pathology mediated by viral pathogens is reviewed in the context of ALD and NASH.
Systems-level support for mobile device connectivity

The rise of handheld computing devices has inspired a great deal of research aimed at addressing the unique problems posed by their mobile, "always-on" nature. In order to help mobile devices navigate a complex world of overlapping, uneven public wireless coverage, one must be mindful of the distinction between nomadic usage and true mobility. Accordingly, systems research must move beyond simply optimizing for a set of local conditions (e.g., finding the best access point for a laptop user in a stationary location) to considering the "derivative of connectivity" when network conditions are constantly in flux. This dissertation presents a new paradigm for networking support on mobile devices. This project has several complementary aspects. As devices encounter network connectivity our system both evaluates the application-level quality of WiFi access points and updates a device-centric mobility model. Together, this mobility model and AP quality database yield "connectivity forecasts," which let applications optimize not just for current network conditions but for the expected big picture to come. Results of a prototype deployment in several cities shows that considering the application-level quality of APs (rather than just signal strength) significantly boosts the success rate of finding a usable access point. Furthermore, this dissertation shows how connectivity forecasts—even with minimal model training time—allow several applications commonly found on mobile devices to reap significant benefits, such as extended battery life. Mobile devices are often within range of multiple connectivity options, however, and choosing just one therefore ignores potential connectivity. This dissertation describes a virtual link layer for Linux, called Juggler, that uses one network card to simultaneously associate with many WiFi APs, ad hoc groups or mesh networks. The results show how Juggler can boost effective bandwidth by striping data across multiple APs, enable seamless 802.11 handoff by preemptively associating with the "next" AP before the current one become unusable, and maintain a modest side-channel to the user's personal area network or mesh network without impacting foreground bandwidth to infrastructure.
Biological Control of Postharvest Diseases of Fruits and Vegetables Through Manipulation of Epiphytic Plant Microflora

The opportunity exists to biologically control plant pathogens by manipulating the epiphytic microflora on plant surfaces. Epiphytic populations can be modified by changing environmental conditions such as the nutrient milieu, or by introducing antagonistic microorganisms. We have studied control of postharvest diseases of fruits and vegetables using naturally occurring antagonistic yeasts and bacteria. Antagonistic microorganisms appear to be exceptionally effective as biological control agents in the postharvest environment because they can be targeted where they are needed and the environmental conditions required for high efficacy can be controlled. Effective antagonists may inhibit postharvest pathogens by the production of antibiotics, by successfully competing with the pathogens for nutrients and space, by inducing host resistance, and by interacting directly with the pathogen. Biological control of postharvest diseases by the use of non-antibiotic-producing antagonists may provide an effective and safe alternative to synthetic pesticides for the control of postharvest diseases of fruits and vegetables.
The Treaty of Waitangi: Implications for Christian Theological Education in Aotearoa New Zealand

This is the first verse of a Māori action song composed by Tuini Ngawai of Ngāti Porou in 1959. It depicts the social and economic plight of that group of Māori, who are the tangata whenua, ‘the [indigenous] people of the land’, who reside on the East Cape of the North Island. This area is geographically remote, economically deprived, educationally weak, and socially challenged. However, this scenario is not confined to that ‘tribe’. Most Māori can identify with the sentiments expressed. This verse promotes the Treaty of Waitangi as a possible path out of their plight. Tania Rei, of Victoria University of Wellington, in response to a question as to ‘what must non-Māori do to give effect to change to meet Māori aspirations?’ for education replied that ‘the preferred framework ...would be the Treaty, and as the non-Māori partner to the Treaty the Government has to ensure that Article 2 and Article 3 rights are met’ (Tapine &Waiti, 1997, p. 66). This particular interpretation of the Treaty and its significance for contemporary Māori in all walks of life,
Conceptual Design of Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems

We introduce a new conceptual-design methodology for the qualitative-motion synthesis of micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS). The approach abstracts the functionality of MEMS building blocks as matrices and allows for the symbolic synthesis of systems via matrix operations. This work is an extension of research on conceptual design of machines and mechanisms using qualitative reasoning and artificial intelligence. The fundamental motivation is to extract the logical steps involved in the creative design so that it is possible to trace the design process using computers.
A simple model for crack growth in creep resistant alloys

A simple model of creep crack growth, valid for creep-resistant alloys, is described. For such alloys, it may be assumed that the creep deformation is essentially confined to a thin region in the neighborhood of the crack tip. This thin region is modeled as a cohesive zone. Outside the cohesive zone, linear elastic conditions are assumed to prevail. Numerical results for both transient and steady-state crack growth are presented. For reasonable choices of model parameters, the numerical results show rather good agreement with experimental data.
Utilizing the Adaptive Control in Mitigating the Seismic Response of Adjacent Buildings Connected with MR Dampers

The mutual impacts between adjacent buildings caused large-scale damage during past major earthquakes sparking interest in examining the reliability and effectiveness of various control devices for alleviating the seismic responses of adjacent buildings. In this study, seismic response attenuation of multi-story adjacent buildings connected with MR dampers is examined using the Simple Adaptive Control (SAC) method. The use of the adaptive controller is advantageous as it can cope with the structural characteristics change during the severe events such as earthquakes. The simple Bouc-Wen model is considered in the analysis to model the highly nonlinear behavior of the MR damper. The Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) is used to design the reference model with desired trajectories. The change in the structural characteristics is reflected as a reduction in the plant's mass and stiffness as a result of the damage in the structural system. The efficacy of the simple adaptive controller is investigated in the presence of damage and in case where the system still undamaged. The results show that connecting adjacent buildings with MR dampers driven by the Simple Adaptive Control method is quite effective in mitigating the seismic responses.
Evaluation of 72Se/72As generator and production of 72Se for supplying 72As as a potential PET imaging radionuclide.

Abstract Positron-emitting 72As is the PET imaging counterpart for beta-emitting 77As. Its parent, no carrier added (n.c.a.) 72Se, was produced for a 72Se/72As generator by irradiating an enriched 7°Ge metal-graphite target via the 70Ge(α, 2 n)72Se reaction. Target dissolution used a fast, environmentally friendly method with 93% radioactivity recovery. Chromatographic parameters of the 72Se/72As generator were evaluated, the eluted n.c.a. 72As was characterized with a phantom imaging study, and the previously reported trithiol and aryl-dithiol ligand systems were radiolabeled with the separated n.c.a. 72As in high yield.
Spectroscopy of Oxygen-Sensitive Material for Measuring Contact Lens Oxygen Transmissibility.

Purpose: Oxygen permeability or transmissibility is a crucial parameter for contact lenses to ensure that extended wear will not induce corneal hypoxia. This work tests a new method of using the ox...
Lie Catchers: Evolution and Development of Deception in Modern Times

It is well established in the literature on deception that most individuals are not very good at detecting lies. Instead, humans tend to be biased toward truthfulness. In this chapter, we review socio-cognitive processes underlying our judgments of truth and deception. We examine how the development of our species, the development of our own minds, and the development of our sociocultural structures all work toward creating a balance between abilities to lie, and the abilities to detect lies. We suggest that our social networks serve as a deception surveillance system that will usually work to produce the concrete proof that a lie was told, thus removing the evolutionary press for us all to become excellent lie catchers from behavioral responses alone. Finally, as our social world expands, social media has kept up to move the social surveillance system from the level of the village, to the level of the world, as illustrated by some new phenomena like the #MeToo movement.
Home visits for uncontrolled asthma among low-income adults with patient portal access

Background Asthma disproportionately affects low-income and minority adults. In an era of electronic records and Internet-based digital devices, it is unknown whether portals for patient-provider communication can improve asthma outcomes. Objective We sought to estimate the effect on asthma outcomes of an intervention using home visits (HVs) by community health workers (CHWs) plus training in patient portals compared with usual care and portal training only. Methods Three hundred one predominantly African American and Hispanic/Latino adults with uncontrolled asthma were recruited from primary care and asthma specialty practices serving low-income urban neighborhoods, directed to Internet access, and given portal training. Half were randomized to HVs over 6 months by CHWs to facilitate competency in portal use and promote care coordination. Results One hundred seventy (56%) patients used the portal independently. Rates of portal activity did not differ between randomized groups. Asthma control and asthma-related quality of life improved in both groups over 1 year. Differences in improvements over time were greater for the HV group for all outcomes but reached conventional levels of statistical significance only for the yearly hospitalization rate (−0.53; 95% CI, −1.08 to −0.024). Poor neighborhoods and living conditions plus limited Internet access were barriers for patients to complete the protocol and for CHWs to make HVs. Conclusion For low-income adults with uncontrolled asthma, portal access and CHWs produced small incremental benefits. HVs with emphasis on self-management education might be necessary to facilitate patient-clinician communication and to improve asthma outcomes.
Admissible Shape Parameters for a Planar Quasi-Static Constraint Mode Tire Model

Abstract : The interaction between the tire and terrain has long been of interest for vehicle dynamic simulation. Detailed tire models produce accurate results, but are too computationally intensive for the iterative vehicle design process. The objective of this work is to develop a computationally efficient way to estimate the tire's deformed shape, from which the tire forces can be evaluated. A novel, planar, quasi-static, constraint mode tire model is developed to address this objective. The required model parameters are reduced to two non-dimensional shape parameters and an overall stiffness factor. An admissible domain of the shape parameters is developed based on the deformation limitations of a physical tire. Specifically, no single harmonic may dominates the tire shape and the low spatial frequency components must contribute more than higher frequency components to the overall tire shape. The ability of the model to accurately predict the spindle force is evaluated by comparing simulation and experimental responses for quasi-static flat plate and cleat tests. This work provides a simple, accurate tire model for circumferential displacement and vertical spindle force prediction to improve the vehicle design process.
The effect of grit on postgraduate year-one pharmacy residents' pursuit of additional training.

Abstract Introduction Although much is known about the perceived motivating factors and barriers to individuals pursuing postgraduate year-one (PGY1) residency training, determinants for pursuit of further training after PGY1 are unclear. Methods Residents at accredited programs were surveyed regarding grit, residency program and resident characteristics, and pursuit of additional post-graduate training (PGT) intentions and behaviors. Two respondent groups were developed: Pursued Additional PGT and Did Not Pursue Additional PGT. Grit-S scores were compared. A multivariable logistic regression was conducted to determine predictors of additional PGT pursuit. Results Of 542 participating residents (response rate 14.9%), 332 (61.3%) pursued additional PGT. Residents in the Pursued Additional PGT group scored higher in overall Grit-S (median 3.875, interquartile range (IQR) 3.5–4.25 vs. median 3.75, IQR 3.375–4.125, p = 0.0006) and perseverance of effort (median 4.25, IQR 4–4.5 vs. median 4, IQR 3.75–4.5, p = 0.008) and consistency of interest (median 3.5, IQR 3–4 vs. median 3.5, IQR 2.75–3.75, p = 0.002) domains. Residents who early committed to a PGY2 had higher Grit-S scores than those who did not (median 4, IQR 3.625–4.25 vs. median 3.875, IQR 3.375–4.125, p = 0.012). Following multivariable logistic regression analysis, Grit-S score was the only variable associated with pursuit of additional PGT (odds ratio 17.8, 95% confidence interval 1.59–199.38). Conclusions Grit-S scores are associated with PGY1 resident decisions to pursue further PGT and to early commit to PGY2 programs.
Ultrasonographic evaluation of cholecystoduodenostomy sites in six cats.

Case series summaryThis case series describes the postoperative ultrasonographic findings in six cats that underwent a cholecystoduodenostomy as treatment for extrahepatic biliary obstruction. The ...
Human-in-the-loop RL with an EEG wearable headset: on effective use of brainwaves to accelerate learning

Intrinsic Human-In-The-Loop Reinforcement Learning (HITL-RL) is an approach to obtain the human feedback implicitly by capturing brain waves through the use of wearable electroencephalogram (EEG) headsets. It can significantly accelerate the training convergence of RL algorithms while reducing the burden placed on the humans involved in the training loop. While a human naturally observes the performance of an RL agent, any erroneous behavior of the agent can be recognized through the error-potentials (ErrP) in the EEG signal. This information can then be incorporated into the reward function of the RL algorithm to accelerate its learning. The detection accuracy of the error-potentials thus significantly affects the convergence time of the RL algorithm. The focus of this work is the reliable detection of error-potentials using the brain waves of the user detected using only an off-the-shelf EEG wearable. We first present a new error-potential decoding algorithm that leverages the spatial, temporal, and frequency-domain characteristics of the EEG signals. We develop three Atari-like game environments and recruit 25 volunteers for evaluation. The proposed algorithm achieves an accuracy performance of 73.71% (an improvement of 8.11% over the current state-of-the-art algorithm). We then show that a modified algorithm that intelligently discards low-confidence estimates is capable of boosting the accuracy to 79.51% (16.63% improvement).
Geometric and electronic structure analysis of calcium water complexes with one and two solvation shells.

Neutral and cationic calcium water complexes are studied by means of high-level quantum calculations. Both the geometric and electronic structure of these species is investigated. We study complexes with up to eight water molecules in the first solvation sphere of calcium Ca(H2O)n=1–80,+, and examine their stability with respect to Ca(H2O)n–k@kH2O0,+, where a number k of water molecules resides at the second solvation shell. For the cationic species, we find that five water molecules readily attach to calcium and the sixth water molecule goes to the second shell. The hexa-coordinated calcium core is restored after the addition of a seventh water molecule. For neutral species, zero-point energy corrections are critical in stabilizing structures with water ligands directly bound to calcium for up to six water ligands. The (one or two) valence electrons of Ca+ and Ca are displaced gradually from the valence space of calcium to the periphery of the complex forming solvated electron precursors (SEPs). For example, in the ground state of Ca(H2O)6+ one electron occupies an s-type diffuse peripheral orbital, which can be promoted to higher energy p-, d-, f-, g-atomic-type orbitals (1s, 1p, 1d, 2s, 1f, 2p, 2d, 1g, 3s) in the excited states of the system. Finally, we considered the effect of a complete second solvation shell using the Ca(H2O)6+@12H2O cluster, which is shown to have significantly lower excitation energies compared to the Ca(H2O)6+.
Sequential Submodular Maximization and Applications to Ranking an Assortment of Products

We study a submodular maximization problem motivated by applications in online retail. A platform displays a list of products to a user in response to a search query. The user inspects the first k items in the list for a k chosen at random from a given distribution, and decides whether to purchase an item from that set based on a choice model. The goal of the platform is to maximize the engagement of the shopper defined as the probability of purchase. This problem gives rise to a less-studied variation of submodular maximization in which we are asked to choose an ordering of a set of elements to maximize a linear combination of different submodular functions. First, using a reduction to maximizing submodular functions over matroids, we give an optimal (1-1/e)-approximation for this problem. We then consider a variant in which the platform cares not only about user engagement, but also about diversification across various groups of users, that is, guaranteeing a certain probability of purchase in each group. We characterize the polytope of feasible solutions and give a bi-criteria ((1-1/e)^2,(1-1/e)^2)-approximation for this problem by rounding an approximate solution of a linear programming relaxation. For rounding, we relay on our reduction and the particular rounding techniques for matroid polytopes. For the special case in which underlying submodular functions are coverage functions -- which is practically relevant in online retail -- we propose an alternative LP relaxation and a simpler randomized rounding for the problem. This approach yields to an optimal bi-criteria (1-1/e,1-1/e)-approximation algorithm for the special case of the problem with coverage functions.
Evaluation of pigment epithelium-derived factor concentration in equine amniotic membrane homogenate and its in-vitro vascular endothelial growth factor inhibition effect in tears of dogs with vascularized ulcerative keratitis.

Background: Corneal neovascularization can result from many pathological processes affecting the ocular surface leading to disturbances and opacifications that reduce corneal clarity and may impact vision. In veterinary medicine, the use of topical corticosteroid is contraindicated in the presence of ulcerative keratitis, and there is sparse research regarding safe medical alternatives to inhibit corneal neovascularization in dogs to improve visual outcome.Aim: To investigate the pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) concentration in equine amniotic membrane homogenate (EAMH) and its in-vitro vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibition in tears of dogs with vascularized ulcerative keratitis.Methods: Homogenates from 10 equine amniotic membranes (AM) were analyzed by sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for quantification of equine PEDF and VEGF. Forty tear samples were collected from both eyes of dogs diagnosed with vascularized ulcerative keratitis, and 50 samples from healthy dogs. Samples from affected eyes were allocated to G1 – affected undiluted tears; G2 – affected tears diluted with phosphate-buffer solution; G3 – affected tears treated with low-concentrated EAMH; and G4 – affected tears treated with high-concentrated EAMH. Tears from the unaffected contralateral eyes were composed in G5, while G6 was composed by tears from healthy dogs (control). The presence and levels of VEGF were evaluated in all groups by Western blot and ELISA.Results: The PEDF:VEGF ratio in EAMH was 110:1. An increase in VEGF levels was observed in tears from eyes with vascularized corneal ulcers (G1) as well as in contralateral tears (G5), compared to normal dogs (G6). Highconcentrated EAMH provided a greater decrease in VEGF levels in-vitro compared to low-concentrated EAMH.Conclusion: EAMHs exhibited high concentrations of PEDF in comparison to VEGF and were able to partially decrease VEGF levels in tears of dogs with vascularized ulcers, in-vitro. Our results suggest that VEGF concentration is elevated in tears of dogs with active vascularized ulcerative keratitis in both affected and contralateral eyes compared to that of healthy dogs. Keywords: Amniotic membrane, Corneal neovascularization, Dog, PEDF, VEGF.
EVALUATION OF EFFECTS OF CORRECTIVE EXERCISES ON PES PLANOVALGUS IN PRESCHOOL CHILDREN

Introduction: The foot forms the natural base of the human body bearing all its weight. Over the course of a person's life, the foot ensures the contact of the body with the terrain and creates the basic support during dynamic activities such as walking or running, especially on uneven terrain. (Vele, 2006) Objectives: The aim of the research was to verify the effects of targeted corrective exercises on healthy foot development in preschool children. Methods: The research was conducted from September 2018 to March 2019. The research sample consisted of 105 probands (59 preschool girls and 46 preschool boys), out of whom 7.62% had the physiological position of the arch on the right foot during baseline measurements. The average age of probands was 5 years. The measured parameters were the foot arch height without and with a load. Measurements were taken before and after rehabilitation intervention. Results: The statistical analysis of the results confirmed the positive effect of rehabilitation treatment in all monitored variables on statistically significant diference in terms of an elevation in the foot arch (p <0.005) and the influence of risk factors contributing to the development of researched foot deformities. The obtained data were processed into tables and graphs and subsequently evaluated. Conclusion: Our study has shown that the most effective is the active exercise strengthening. The affected muscles maintain the foot arch as well as the whole posture.
Evaluating the quality of online health information about prostate cancer treatment

AbstractIntroduction:Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men. It is common for patients to search the Internet before and after urological consultation to better understand their di...
Association of Systemic Diseases With Surgical Treatment for Obstructive Sleep Apnea Compared With Continuous Positive Airway Pressure.

Importance The efficacy of surgical treatments for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is variable when considering only the Apnea Hypopnea Index as the treatment end point. However, only a few studies have shown an association between these procedures and improved clinically relevant outcomes, such as cardiovascular, endocrine, and neurological sequelae of OSA. Objective To evaluate the association of surgery for OSA with clinically relevant outcomes. Design, Setting, and Participants This retrospective cohort study used the Truven MarketScan Database from January 1, 2007, to December 31, 2015, to identify all patients diagnosed with OSA who received a prescription of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), were 40 to 89 years of age, and had at least 3 years of data on file. Data were analyzed September 19, 2019. Interventions Soft tissue and skeletal surgical procedures for the treatment of OSA. Main Outcomes and Measures The occurrence of cardiovascular, neurological, and endocrine complications was compared in patients who received CPAP alone and those who received surgery. High-dimensionality propensity score matching was used to adjust the models for confounders. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis with a log-rank test was used to compare differences in survival curves. Findings A total of 54 224 patients were identified (33 405 men [61.6%]; mean [SD] age, 55.1 [9.2] years), including a cohort of 49 823 patients who received CPAP prescription alone (mean [SD] age, 55.5 [9.4] years) and 4269 patients who underwent soft tissue surgery (mean [SD] age, 50.3 [7.0] years). The median follow-up time was 4.47 (interquartile range, 3-8) years after the index CPAP prescription. In the unadjusted model, soft tissue surgery was associated with decreased cardiovascular (hazard ratio [HR], 0.92; 95% CI, 0.86-0.98), neurological (HR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.39-0.61), and endocrine (HR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.74-0.86) events. This finding was maintained in the adjusted model (HR for cardiovascular events, 0.91 [95% CI, 0.83-1.00]; HR for neurological events, 0.67 [95% CI, 0.51-0.89]; HR for endocrine events, 0.82 [95% CI, 0.74-0.91]). Skeletal surgery (n = 114) and concomitant skeletal and soft tissue surgery (n = 18) did not demonstrate significant differences in rates of development of systemic complications. Conclusions and Relevance In this cohort study, soft tissue surgery for OSA was associated with lower rates of development of cardiovascular, neurological, and endocrine systemic complications compared with CPAP prescription in a large convenience sample of the working insured US adult population. These findings suggest that surgery should be part of the early treatment algorithm in patients at high risk of CPAP failure or nonadherence.
Mean Arterial Pressure is Not Associated with Hemocompatibility-Related Outcomes in LVAD Patients

Purpose Elevated mean arterial pressure (MAP) is associated with stroke in patients with HeartMate II and Heartware HVAD left ventricular assist devices (LVADs). We assessed the relationship between mean arterial pressure (MAP) and hemocompatibility-related clinical adverse events (HRAE) in patients with LVADs. Methods Prospectively collected hemodynamic data from LVAD patients who had undergone invasive hemodynamic ramp study at our institution between 4/2014-7/2018 were analyzed. ROC analysis was performed to determine optimal cutoff value for MAP, and patients were divided into two groups: high MAP (≥90mmHg) and low MAP ( Results 91 patients (average age 61 ± 11 years, 34% women, 40% Black, 38% ischemic cardiomyopathy) were included in the analysis. Of all patients, 29% had HeartWare HVADs, 57% HeartMate II, and 14% HeartMate 3 LVADs. MAP was not significantly associated with HRAE, HR 1.53 (95% CI 0.88-2.64, p=0.13), even when adjusted for LVAD type, HR 1.65 (95% CI 0.95-2.87, p=0.076). Similarly, MAP was not significantly associated with HCS. Low MAP was, however, significantly associated with higher mortality, HR 2.47 (95% CI 1.13-5.39, p=0.024, Figure 1A), and higher rates of heart failure readmission, HR 2.05 (95% CI 1.06-3.99, p=0.034) (figure 1B). Conclusion MAP was not significantly associated with HRAE in this population of LVAD patients. However, low MAP was significantly associated with mortality and heart failure readmission.
Inter-species functional compatibility of the Theobroma cacao and Arabidopsis FT orthologs: 90 million years of functional conservation of meristem identity genes.

In angiosperms the transition to flowering is controlled by a complex set of interacting networks integrating a range of developmental, physiological, and environmental factors optimizing transition time for maximal reproductive efficiency. The molecular mechanisms comprising these networks have been partially characterized and include both transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulatory pathways. Florigen, encoded by FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) orthologs, is a conserved central integrator of several flowering time regulatory pathways. To characterize the molecular mechanisms involved in controlling cacao flowering time, we have characterized a cacao candidate florigen gene, TcFLOWERING LOCUS T (TcFT). Understanding how this conserved flowering time regulator affects cacao plant’s transition to flowering could lead to strategies to accelerate cacao breeding. BLAST searches of cacao genome reference assemblies identified seven candidate members of the CENTRORADIALIS/TERMINAL FLOWER1/SELF PRUNING gene family including a single florigen candidate. cDNA encoding the predicted cacao florigen was cloned and functionally tested by transgenic genetic complementation in the Arabidopsis ft-10 mutant. Transgenic expression of the candidate TcFT cDNA in late flowering Arabidopsis ft-10 partially rescues the mutant to wild-type flowering time. Gene expression studies reveal that TcFT is spatially and temporally expressed in a manner similar to that found in Arabidopsis, specifically, TcFT mRNA is shown to be both developmentally and diurnally regulated in leaves and is most abundant in floral tissues. Finally, to test interspecies compatibility of florigens, we transformed cacao tissues with AtFT resulting in the remarkable formation of flowers in tissue culture. The morphology of these in vitro flowers is normal, and they produce pollen that germinates in vitro with high rates. We have identified the cacao CETS gene family, central to developmental regulation in angiosperms. The role of the cacao’s single FT-like gene (TcFT) as a general regulator of determinate growth in cacao was demonstrated by functional complementation of Arabidopsis ft-10 late-flowering mutant and through gene expression analysis. In addition, overexpression of AtFT in cacao resulted in precocious flowering in cacao tissue culture demonstrating the highly conserved function of FT and the mechanisms controlling flowering in cacao.
Synovitis due to Histoplasma capsulatum: a case series and literature review.

Musculoskeletal manifestations of Histoplasma capsulatum infection are uncommon but can mimic inflammatory arthritis. Early diagnosis of this complication is of critical importance in the era of potent immunosuppression for rheumatologic diseases. We conducted a retrospective chart review for patients with histoplasmosis and tenosynovitis, synovitis, or arthritis, diagnosed and treated at our institution between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2019. We also reviewed the relevant literature. Four patients with biopsy-proven, culture-proven histoplasma tenosynovitis were identified at our institution. All four patients had wrist or hand involvement in an asymmetric pattern, and one patient had lower extremity involvement as well. Two patients were not immunocompromised at baseline. One patient underwent a lengthy evaluation and received immunosuppression for 4 years without improvement prior to the diagnosis of histoplasmosis. Histoplasma serologic tests varied among patients with localized infection. Pathologic findings revealed non-caseating granulomatous inflammation. Three patients recovered after 6–12 months of antifungal treatment. One patient still had recurrent infection despite 20 months of treatment. Histoplasma tenosynovitis and synovitis are rare causes of inflammatory arthritis. Infectious causes should be considered and carefully evaluated when patients present with asymmetric oligoarthritis. Early recognition is crucial for successful treatment, especially in patients with concomitant rheumatologic diseases receiving immunosuppressive treatment.
Nonlinear Multiaxial Behavior and Failure of Fiber-Reinforced Composites

The objective of this study was to examine the nonlinear, three-dimensional behavior of a fiber-reinforced polymer. The material that was considered for this study was the carbon fiber composite, AS4/PEEK, graphite fibersin a semi-crystalline thermoplastic matrix. Arcan specimens were chosen for this study because the specimens are compact and biaxial stress states can be easily obtained. Strains were measured using geometric moire, and specimens were subjected to shear and biaxial loading up to failure. The nonlinear behavior was examined in both the longitudinal and transverse planes of the composite. The effects of shear on the axial stress-strain behavior were obtained, as well as the effects of axial stress on the shear stress-strain behavior. A one-parameter plasticity model was used to characterize the obtained nonlinear stress-strain curves. The original model was unable to characterize the nonlinear behavior. The effect of two-dimensional mean stress on the shear yield surface was then added to the model and a significant improvement was achieved. The work potential model with only one internal state variable was also used for characterizing the nonlinear behavior. It could not predict the observed difference of the nonlinear behavior of the composite under shear plus tension and shear plus compression.
Apolipoprotein E Genotypes: Relationship to Cognitive Functioning, Cognitive Decline, and Survival in Nonagenarians

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the extent to which relationships between apolipoprotein E, cognitive functioning, and survival in people aged 60 to 80 persist into advanced old age. DESIGN: Examine the effect of apolipoprotein E genotypes on baseline cognitive functioning, cognitive decline over 5 years, and survival in a cohort of 1,551 nonagenarians. SETTING: The Danish 1905 birth cohort. PARTICIPANTS: One thousand five hundred fifty-one nonagenarians from the Danish 1905 birth cohort. MEASUREMENTS: Cognitive functioning was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and five brief cognitive tests (cognitive composite). RESULTS: The subjects were stratified into four groups by occurrence of a protective (epsilon2) or a risk (epsilon4) apo E allele (epsilon22 and epsilon23, epsilon33, epsilon24 and epsilon34, epsilon44). At intake, the mean scores for the three genotype groups were 22.1, 21.8, 21.4, and 21.0 for MMSE and 0.10, 0.07, -0.02, and 0.30 for the cognitive composite, respectively. Growth-curve analyses showed that, although individuals carrying at least one epsilon4 allele had slightly lower MMSE scores and declined slightly more rapidly over time, this effect was not statistically significant and was not apparent in scores on the cognitive composite. In subjects whose functioning was relatively well preserved (those still living and able to participate in the assessment, and whose cognitive functioning had declined less than 4 points on the MMSE), epsilon4 frequencies tended to decline at subsequent waves (P=.03, chi-square test for trend), but epsilon4 had no significant survival disadvantage (hazard ratio=1.11 (95% confidence interval=0.99-1.25; P=.07). CONCLUSION: Apo E genotype has a small effect on the probability of remaining a well-functioning nonagenarian but no separately detectable effect on cognitive functioning, cognitive decline, or survival.
The Three-Dimensional Event-Driven Graphics Environment (3D-EDGE)

Stanford Telecommunications has developed the Three-Dimensional Event-Driven Graphics Environment (3D-EDGE) for the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center's Communications Link Analysis and Simulation System (CLASS). 3D-EDGE consists of a library of object-oriented subroutines, which allows engineers with little or no computer graphics experience to programmatically manipulate, render, animate and access complex three-dimensional objects. An example program is described, and results pertaining to a model of the Compton Gamma Ray Observatory satellite are discussed. >
The Long-Term Effects of Divorce: Mothers and Children in Concurrent Support Groups

Supportive services in the form of concurrent groups for mothers and children experiencing the long-term negative effects of divorce are described. The general goal of the Single Parent Project was to provide parents and children an environment within which they could experience a cohesive feeling of support and sharing, and the opportunity to learn new communication and problem-solving skills. Each group (parent and child) was run by a graduate student. Clinical supervision was conjoint, helping to maintain conceptual unity of each family system. Issues presented by mothers or children were used to develop strategies for subsequent meetings. Although this project explored the effectiveness of a variety of interventions, two deserve special mention: (1) All siblings aged 4 through 12 were included, with no identification of a problem child. (2) Mothers served as co-therapists in the children’s group. Problems inherent in a pilot study of this nature are discussed. A 220primary benefit to both groups was social support and a decrease in social isolation.
Cellular lifespan and senescence signaling in embryonic stem cells

Most mammalian cells when placed in culture will undergo a limited number of cell divisions before entering an unresponsive non-proliferating state termed senescence. However, several pathways that are activated singly or in concert can allow cells to bypass senescence at least for limited periods. These include the telomerase pathway required to maintain telomere ends, the p53 and Rb pathways required to direct senescence in response to DNA damage, telomere shortening and mitogenic signals, and the insulin-like growth factor--Akt pathway that may regulate lifespan and cell proliferation. In this review, we summarize recent findings related to these pathways in embryonic stem (ES) cells and suggest that ES cells are immortal because these pathways are tightly regulated.
North for the Harvest: Mexican Workers, Growers, and the Sugar Beet Industry

Review of: "North for the Harvest: Mexican Workers, Growers, and the Sugar Beet Industry," by Jim Norris.
PropBank Annotation of Multilingual Light Verb Constructions

In this paper, we have addressed the task of PropBank annotation of light verb constructions, which like multi-word expressions pose special problems. To arrive at a solution, we have evaluated 3 different possible methods of annotation. The final method involves three passes: (1) manual identification of a light verb construction, (2) annotation based on the light verb construction's Frame File, and (3) a deterministic merging of the first two passes. We also discuss how in various languages the light verb constructions are identified and can be distinguished from the non-light verb word groupings.
Neonatal Rat Primary Microglia: Isolation, Culturing, and Selected Applications

Microglial cells elaborate trophic factors and cytokines and remove toxins and debris from the extracellular space in the central nervous system, acting analogously to peripheral macrophages. Over the past two decades, increased attention has been directed at the role of microglia, not only in normal physiology, but also in mediating neurotoxicity. Activation of microglia is inherent to multiple neurodegenerative disorders and exposure to toxic compounds. In large measure, these revelations have come about as a result of technologies that enable researchers to obtain high yield and purity primary cultures of rodent microglia. The mechanical isolation protocol discussed in this unit offers an economical method to isolate large amounts of microglia in a short and not too labor-intensive manner. Most importantly, it ensures a high yield of cells with great reproducibility. Given the ever-increasing importance of microglia to the field of neurotoxicology research, the ability to isolate large quantities of primary microglia makes it possible to investigate the role and mechanisms associated with microglial modulation of neurotoxicity. We provide a detailed description on the methods that are routinely used in our laboratory for the isolation and culture of microglia, with emphasis on the steps that are deemed most critical for obtaining pure and healthy cultures.