cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Exploiting Heterogeneity in Robotic Networks

In this chapter we consider the problem of coordinating robotic systems with different dynamics, sensing and vision capabilities, to achieve a unisonmission goal. An approach that makes use of a heterogeneous team of agents has several advantages when cost, integration of capabilities, or possible large search areas need to be investigated. A heterogeneous team allows for the robots to become “specialized” in their abilities and therefore accomplish sub-goals more efficiently which in turn makes the overall mission more efficient. We first propose a prioritized search algorithm combined with communication constraints to provide a decentralized prioritized sensing control algorithm for a heterogenous sensor network that maintains network connectivity. By specifying particular edge weights in the proximity graph, we provide a technique for biasing particular connections within the heterogenous sensor network. Then in the second part of the chapter we show a hierarchical approach to optimally allocate the tasks of a mission to specific agents. We develop a decentralized algorithm based on artificial physics and potential functions to guide the heterogeneous robotic network in the environment while maintaining connectivity constraints. Simulations and an experimental result are provided to show the applicability of the proposed frameworks.
Differential coupling of subtypes of the muscarinic receptor to signaling mechanisms in brain and peripheral tissues.

It has been possible to classify muscarinic receptors on the basis of their specificity for selective muscarinic agents for quite some time. However more recently, considerable progress has been made in characterizing muscarinic receptors, and there is now unequivocal evidence for subtypes of the muscarinic receptor. In this chapter, the relationship between the pharmacological and molecular biological classifications of subtypes of the muscarinic receptor will be discussed briefly, and some recent data on the coupling of subtypes of the muscarinic receptor to adenylate cyclase and phosphoinositide hydrolysis in central and peripheral tissues will also be described.
Temporal Patterns of Perceived Tastes Differ from Liquid Flow at the Tongue

The time at which a predetermined behavior (a response) begins after the onset of a specified and more or less controlled change in the environment (a stimulus) can be investigated during psychophysical analysis of a sensory system. Subjects are instructed to respond only when a particular perceptual state, for example, a change in perceived taste, occurs. The resultant time interval between stimulus and response is called a reaction time. This one measure allows the temporal difference between stimulus arrival and the start of a taste perception to be indexed [1]. By itself a taste reaction time does not permit the physically determined total time course of a taste stimulus to be compared with that of a perceptual response, because only the disparity between one physicochemical measurement at the tongue and one response is timed.
Second harmonic imaging of an intravenously administered echocardiographic contrast agent: Visualization of coronary arteries and measurement of coronary blood flow

Abstract Objectives . This study sought to evaluate the potential of second harmonic contrast echocardiography to assess coronary vasculature. Background . Newer transpulmonary ultrasound contrast agents capable of resonance phenomena detected by harmonic imaging may theoretically be able to demonstrate blood flow in the myocardium. Methods . Transthoracic B-mode images and Doppler were obtained using a prototype second harmonic ultrasound system after femoral vein injection of AFO145 (10 to 40 mg) in 13 closed chest dogs (mean weight 25.6 kg). Coronary Doppler flow was simultaneously invasively measured using an intracoronary flow wire and visually compared with transthoracic Doppler flow. “Noninvasive” coronary vasodilator reserve was determined by measuring the ratio of the Doppler time velocity integral after adenosine to the baseline value and compared with the “invasive” intracoronary determination. Results . Harmonic imaging showed heterogeneous opacification of the myocardium characterized by linear branching structures consistent with intramyocardial coronary arteries, which were not clearly visible during conventional ultrasound imaging. In nine dogs, transthoracic Doppler was performed, and characteristic coronary Doppler flow was observed, identical to the simultaneously observed intracoronary Doppler flow. Intracoronary adenosine (120 to 150 μg) equally increased intracoronary and transthoracic Doppler flow velocities. The calculated “noninvasive” and “invasive” coronary vasodilator reserve ratios were similar ([mean ± SD] 3.3 ± 1.0 and 3.6 ± 1.2, p = NS), with excellent correlation (r = 0.95, p = 0.0012). Conclusions . These findings indicate that noninvasive assessment of intramyocardial coronary vasculature and measurement of coronary blood flow reserve are possible using second harmonic contrast echocardiography.
The discrepancy of Farey series

We study the uniform distribution modulo one of the Farey series in an arbitrary subinterval of the closed unit interval [0, 1], whose fractions have denominators streaming in a given arithmetic progression, and we establish upper and lower bounds for the discrepancy of the Farey series. The distribution is closely related to the growth of the Mertens function and follows from a concise formula.
MnTE-2-PyP protects the prostate from radiation-induced fibrosis (RIF) by activating Nrf2/Nqo1/SIRT signaling axis

Prostate cancer treated with radiation therapy is accompanied by damage to healthy tissues, resulting in radiation induced-fibrosis (RIF) and a reduction in quality of life. Radiation exposure increases reactive oxygen species (ROS) that leads to molecular remodeling of fibroblast cells to induce RIF. Our work demonstrates that MnTE-2-PyP, a scavenger of superoxide molecules, prevents acute and chronic changes to prostate fibroblast cells that are responsible for the development of RIF. Fibroblast cells exposed to radiation (≥ 3Gy) show a decrease in the redox-sensitive nuclear Nrf2 protein levels without any change in Nrf2 mRNA expression. This correlates with a decrease in mRNA and protein levels of a Nrf2 downstream target, Nqo1, which is a cytoprotective protein. Therefore, we hypothesize that MnTE-2-PyP can prevent ROS mediated molecular remodeling of fibroblast cells in RIF by increasing Nrf2 activity and Nqo1 expression. We have confirmed that MnTE-2-PyP increases nuclear Nrf2 levels and causes an upregulation of Nqo1 expression (2.23-fold ± 0.41). Upregulation of Nqo1 expression correlates with a decrease in Keap1 levels that control Nrf2 degradation and translocation to the nucleus (p=0.0161). Inhibition of Nqo1 activity using Dicoumarol (50μM) or siRNA (10nM) significantly decrease cell viability (40-50%). Interestingly, Nqo1 upregulation and its cytoprotective function correlate with an increase in NAD+ levels (2.24-fold ± 0.60). NAD+ is an essential cofactor for sirtuin (SIRT) proteins that can deacetylate other proteins involved epigenetic remodeling of fibroblast cells. We have observed a significant increase in sirtuin activity in irradiated cells treated with MnTE-2-PyP (1.88-fold) as compared to no treatment. Therefore, we believe that activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway that causes an increase in Nqo1 expression, followed by an increase in NAD+ levels and sirtuin activity by MnTE-2-PyP treatment, is responsible for prevention of ROS mediated molecular alterations in RIF.
External Validation of a Pretransplant Biomarker Model (REVERSE) Predictive of Renal Recovery After Liver Transplantation

In patients with end-stage liver disease, the ability to predict recovery of renal function following liver transplantation (LT) remains elusive. However, several important clinical decisions depend on whether renal dysfunction is recoverable after LT. We used a cohort of patients undergoing LT to independently validate a published pre-LT model predictive of post-transplant renal recovery (Renal Recovery Assessment at Liver Transplant [REVERSE]: high osteopontin [OPN] and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 [TIMP-1] levels, age 50 mL/minute/1.73 m2 after LT (reversible AKI [rAKI]) (3) eGFR > 50 mL/minute/1.73 m2 prior to and after LT (no AKI). In patients with elevated pre-LT serum levels of OPN and TIMP-1, recovery of renal function correlated with decreases in the level of both proteins. At 4 weeks post-LT (n = 77 subset), the largest decline in OPN and TIMP-1 was seen in the rAKI group. Validation of the REVERSE model in this independent data set had high area under the curve (0.78) in predicting full post-LT renal recovery (sensitivity 0.86, specificity 0.6, positive predictive value 0.81, negative predictive value 0.69). Our eGFR findings were confirmed using measured GFR. Conclusion: The REVERSE model, derived from an initial training set combining plasma biomarkers and clinical characteristics, demonstrated excellent external validation performance characteristics in an independent patient cohort using serum samples. Among patients with kidney injury pre-LT, the predictive ability of this model may prove beneficial in clinical decision-making both prior to and following transplantation.
Fetal adrenal gland size and the ability to predict spontaneous term labor.

Abstract Objective The objective of this study was to evaluate whether ultrasound measured fetal adrenal gland size can be a predictor of spontaneous term labor. Study design This study was a diagnostic test accuracy study using a prospective cohort design evaluating the ability of 2-dimensional ultrasound measurement of fetal adrenal gland total length, total width, fetal zone length and fetal zone width in women in the third trimester to predict the primary outcome of spontaneous term labor. Secondary outcomes were vaginal delivery, length of labor, and maternal and neonatal morbidities. Results Of 43 patients recruited, 3 were excluded. 11 (25.6%) presented in spontaneous labor and 29 (67.4%) underwent induction of labor. Patient demographics were similar for all included except for admission cervical exam and oxytocin use. A receiver operative curve was created to assess test predictability. Weighted width of fetal adrenal gland was the best predictor of spontaneous labor amongst variables measured with an area under the curve of 0.674, p = 0.93. w/W ≥ 0.41 had a sensitivity of 91.0%, specificity of 44.8%, positive predictive value of 38.5% and a negative predictive value of 92.3%. Maternal and neonatal morbidities were not different between the spontaneous labor group and the induction of labor group. Conclusion Ultrasound measured fetal w/W was moderately predictive of spontaneous labor.
Optical biopsy of penile cancer with in vivo confocal laser endomicroscopy.

Abstract Introduction Surgical management of penile cancer depends on accurate margin assessment and staging. Advanced optical imaging technologies may improve penile biopsy and organ-sparing treatment. We evaluated the feasibility of confocal laser endomicroscopy for intraoperative assessment of benign and malignant penile tissue. Patients and methods With institutional review board approval, 11 patients were recruited, 9 with suspected penile cancer, and 2 healthy controls. Confocal laser endomicroscopy using a 2.6-mm fiber-optic probe was performed at 1 or 2 procedures on all subjects, for 13 imaging procedures. Fluorescein was administered intravenously approximately 3 minutes prior to imaging for contrast. Video sequences from in vivo (n = 12) and ex vivo (n = 6) imaging were obtained of normal glans, suspicious lesions, and surgical margins. Images were processed, annotated, characterized, and correlated with standard hematoxylin and eosin histopathology. Results No adverse events related to imaging were reported. Distinguishing features of benign and malignant penile tissue could be identified by confocal laser endomicroscopy. Normal skin had cells of uniform size and shape, with distinct cytoplasmic membranes consistent with squamous epithelium. Malignant lesions were characterized by disorganized, crowded cells of various size and shape, lack of distinct cytoplasmic membranes, and hazy, moth-eaten appearance. The transition from normal to abnormal squamous epithelium could be identified. Conclusions We report the initial feasibility of intraoperative confocal laser endomicroscopy for penile cancer optical biopsy. Pending further evaluation, confocal laser endomicroscopy could serve as an adjunct or replacement to conventional frozen section pathology for management of penile cancer.
Myofascial pain syndrome in the dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint

Aim Selection of the clinical characteristics of pain syndrome in the orofacial region in temporomandibular joint pain dysfunction syndrome (TMJ PDS). Material and methods One hundred and two patients with TMJ PDS were examined using the Verbal Descriptive Pain Rating Scale of the orofacial area. The Clinical Index of TMJ dysfunction (CID) by Helkimo M. was used for objectification of the level of musculo-tonic disorders in the area of the chewing muscles. The psychopathological status of patients with TMJ PDS was assessed with HRDS and SCL-90-R. Results A significant proportion of patients with TMJ PDS, in addition to algic symptoms, have hypertonus of the facial muscles, the nature and severity of which require not only a special diagnostic assessment, but also follow-up treatment. The analysis of data allowed us to identify three clinical groups of patients: with isolated (muscular-tonic), neurological symptoms; with mixed (combination of muscular-tonic and somatoform manifestations) neurological and psychopathological symptoms and with somatoform symptoms. Conclusion Patients with TMJ PDS are clinically heterogeneous and require clinical differentiation, distinguishing the common group of patients with muscular dysfunction accompanied by pain and emotional response to it (anxiety and minor depressive symptoms) and the group of patients with a somatoform disorder (and manifestations as general anxiety).
Effects of experience, choice architecture, and cognitive reflection in strategyproof mechanisms

Abstract We study how performance in strategyproof mechanisms is affected by experience with the decision environment, choice architecture (selection among strategically equivalent mechanisms), and cognitive reflection. In both individual and strategic decisions, we observe substantial gaps in performance between high reflective and low reflective participants. We also find that choice architecture and experience narrow these gaps in performance. Our primary finding is that experience serves as a substitute for cognitive reflection: Across a series of experiments employing multiple rounds of a lottery task, a second price sealed bid auction, an English clock auction, and a random serial dictatorship allocation mechanism, we consistently find that the performance of low reflection participants with experience is similar to that of high reflection participants without experience. For the mechanisms we study, we also find that switching from a strategyproof to an ‘obviously strategyproof’ mechanism generally has a larger effect on performance than experience.
Rheological behavior of bio-asphalts and effect of rejuvenators

Abstract Bio-binders are considered as a sustainable alternative to the current asphalt binders. Various biomass resources have been investigated to produce dependable bio-binders by different researchers. While bio-binders and their blends with asphalt binders show promising high-temperature properties, their properties deteriorate rapidly with progress in aging, raising valid concerns about their cold-temperature performance. Most studies address this problem by minimizing the bio-binder content. This study was conducted to evaluate rheological behavior of bio-asphalts with high bio-binder content, and to validate a recently proposed method for improving long-term performance properties of bio-asphalts by inclusion of small quantities of rejuvenator. Samples of different bio-asphalts with 35% replacement ratio were prepared, and were consequently modified by small rejuvenator content. Results showed that the proposed method can successfully alleviate most concerns about the long-term properties of bio-asphalts. However, it was found that all bio-asphalts have lower resistance against fatigue and non-load related cracking.
Clinical efficacy of levetiracetam in the treatment of children with febrile convulsion and its influence on immune function and relapse

Objective To investigate the clinical efficacy of levetiracetam in the treatment of children with febrile convulsion and its influence on immune function and relapse. Methods 104 children with febrile convulsion admitted in our hospital from January 2016 to May 2017 were selected, and were divided into two groups by randomized double blind method, with 52 cases in each group. The control group was given routine medicine, and the observation group was treated with levetiracetam based on the control group. The clinical efficacy, serum neuron-specific enolase (NSE), S100 protein (S100B), immune function indexes, adverse reactions, and relapse were compared between the two groups. Results After treatment for 15 d, the total effective rate of the observation group 92.31%(48/52) was higher than that of the control group 71.15%(37/52), while the rate of convulsion relapse in the observation group 5.77%(3/52) was lower than that in the control group 23.08%(12/52) (P 0.05). Conclusion Levetiracetam has definite clinical efficacy in the treatment of children with febrile convulsion, which can decrease the levels of serum NSE and S100B, increase immune function, and reduce the relapse rate, which is safe and reliable. Key words: Children with febrile convulsion; Levetiracetam; Clinical efficacy; Immune function; Relapse rate
Sweetening the pot: Exploring differences between frequent gamblers who do and do not gamble under the influence of cannabis.

Abstract The legalization of recreational cannabis for adults is becoming more common across the United States of America, as well as other counties around the world. Previous research has documented shared risk factors between cannabis use and gambling. Experimental studies have shown cognitive effects of cannabis that might influence gambling behavior. The current study explored demographics, gambling behaviors, and mental health differences based on the degree to which individuals use cannabis while they gamble. Individuals (N = 805) who gambled at least weekly completed an online survey. Thirty percent reported gambling under the influence of cannabis. Of these individuals, 41% reported using cannabis 25% of the time that they gambled, 31% reported being under the influence 50% of the time when gambling, 16% were under the influence 75% of the time when gambling, and 13% reported always or almost always gambling under the influence of cannabis. Those who reported gambling while under the influence of cannabis were more likely to be younger, non-white and non-heterosexual. They also reported higher levels of psychological distress, were more likely to have had a diagnosis of ADHD and a history of treatment for gambling, substance use, or other kinds of mental health concerns. Individuals who used cannabis while gambling also reported gambling more frequently than those who did not. This study provides one of the first explorations into who uses cannabis while gambling. Future experimental studies are required to investigate the direct effects of cannabis on gambling behaviors.
Rectification of a Delta-Sigma Modulated Signal

Techniques of direct processing of the Δ-Σ modulated pulse stream emerged more than four decades ago. In 1978, N. Kouvaras [1] proposed the use of a serial binary adder as a delta adder, with an interchanged role of the Sum and Carry—out terminals of the binary adder. In that paper, Kouvaras defined the formula to find the sum of two Δ-Σ modulated pulse streams and used a delta adder as a basic processing element in the implementation of FIR and IIR filters. Over the years, a number of papers have been published dealing with linear processing of Δ-Σ modulated pulse streams [2–4]. Analytical evaluation and proof of Kouvaras’ formulas were elaborated in Chap. 2.
Why Isn’t Latvia the “Next” Crimea? Reconsidering Ethnic Integration

Abstract In the aftermath of Russia's military incursion in Ukraine and the annexation of Crimea in 2014, a flurry of articles predicted the next territorial conquest of President Vladimir Putin's Russian revanchism. High on the list were the Baltic countries, which sit precariously on the edge of Europe and historically have been the “bloodlands” between East and West in author Timothy Snyder's phrasing. More specifically, journalists and analysts pointed to the “Russian enclaves” in northeastern Estonia and southeastern Latvia, where, by many accounts, large ethnic Russian populations were prepared to rise up against Baltic governments with a bit of provocation from across the eastern border. However, six years on, there is little indication that Russian speakers in the Baltic countries are on the brink of causing an internal uprising. While there are multiple factors that can help explain the Baltic “dog that didn’t bark,” this essay considers an often overlooked variable in the equation: the depth of civic and cultural integration among Russian speakers in Latvia.
A guide to establishing a hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy program in gynecologic oncology

Abstract Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) may be used to treat peritoneal based malignancies, such as epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). Despite results of clinical trials supporting an increasing indication for HIPEC in EOC, concerns have existed regarding morbidity and challenges with initiating HIPEC at an institutional level. The objective of this review is to describe evidence-based recommendations to guide implementation of a HIPEC program, following our experience at a high-volume tertiary care center. Establishing a HIPEC program requires building a multi-disciplinary team, including gynecologic oncologists, anesthesia, nursing, perfusionists and pharmacists. Team members require education regarding HIPEC protocols, toxic waste and spill management, and personal protective equipment (PPE). Required equipment includes chemotherapy certified PPE and a HIPEC pump which is connected to inflow and outflow catheters placed within the peritoneal cavity. During the procedure, 3–6 L of a hyperthermic perfusate, composed of a isotonic crystalloid vehicle and the chemotherapy of choice, is infused through the peritoneal cavity with goal temperature of 41–43 °C. Prior to HIPEC infusion, surgical teams must communicate with anesthesia and pharmacy. In patients receiving HIPEC with cisplatin, furosemide and mannitol should be administered one hour prior to chemotherapy to ensure adequate diuresis. Sodium thiosulfate may also be considered for renal protection (van Driel et al., n.d. [3]). We utilize a multi-agent pre-medication protocol prior to HIPEC infusion to reduce hypersensitivity reactions, renal toxicity and post-operative nausea and vomiting. Limited data exists to support the optimal regimen for HIPEC at the time of CRS in women with EOC. From our experience, we favor use of cisplatin 100 mg/m2 alone or in combination with paclitaxel 135–175 mg/m2 with 90 min of total perfusion time. Close attention to temperature and glycemic control is essential during the procedure, as electrolyte derangements including hyperglycemia, lactic acidosis and hypokalemia may occur. Continuous patient monitoring and proactive management of abnormalities that arise during HIPEC is imperative to decrease patient morbidity and mortality.
A Bayesian hierarchical model for estimating the statistical parameters in a three-parameter log-normal distribution for monthly average streamflows

Abstract We develop a Bayesian hierarchical model (BHM) for estimating the statistical parameters for monthly average streamflows. We assume monthly average streamflow can be characterized by a three-parameter log-normal distribution (LN3). The three underlying statistical parameters are shift, shape, and location. When estimating a parameter, such as the shape, of a given month the BHM utilizes historical observations not only from the month under consideration but also from all other months. This is different from traditional statistical parameter estimation methods that only use historical observations for the month under consideration. We apply the proposed BHM for parameter estimation to eight watersheds in the United States, where historical unimpaired streamflows have been collected. We also carry out parameter estimation using traditional methods, such as the maximum likelihood estimation, the method of moments, and the L-moment method. Using cross-validation with test data log-likelihood as the measure of performance, the results show that BHM outperforms traditional estimation methods. In addition, we show that as available observation data decreases, the more the proposed method improves relative to traditional methods. Since BHM utilizes information contained in the entire data set, it is especially suited for parameter estimation where historical observations are limited. Furthermore, we conduct a comparative analysis between BHM and an autoregressive model to demonstrate the advantage of BHM.
Unintended pregnancy and abortion by income, region, and the legal status of abortion: estimates from a comprehensive model for 1990-2019.

Summary Background Unintended pregnancy and abortion estimates document trends in sexual and reproductive health and autonomy. These estimates inform and motivate investment in global health programmes and policies. Variability in the availability and reliability of data poses challenges for measuring and monitoring trends in unintended pregnancy and abortion. We developed a new statistical model that jointly estimated unintended pregnancy and abortion that aimed to better inform efforts towards global equity in sexual and reproductive health and rights. Methods We developed a model that simultaneously estimated incidence of unintended pregnancy and abortion within a Bayesian framework. Data on pregnancy intentions and abortion were compiled from country-based surveys, official statistics, and published studies found through a literature search, and we obtained data on livebirths from the World Population Prospects. We analysed results by World Bank income groups, Sustainable Development Goal regional groupings, and the legal status of abortion. Findings In 2015–19, there were 121·0 million unintended pregnancies annually (80% uncertainty interval [UI] 112·8–131·5), corresponding to a global rate of 64 unintended pregnancies (UI 60–70) per 1000 women aged 15–49 years. 61% (58–63) of unintended pregnancies ended in abortion (totalling 73·3 million abortions annually [66·7–82·0]), corresponding to a global abortion rate of 39 abortions (36–44) per 1000 women aged 15–49 years. Using World Bank income groups, we found an inverse relationship between unintended pregnancy and income, whereas abortion rates varied non-monotonically across groups. In countries where abortion was restricted, the proportion of unintended pregnancies ending in abortion had increased compared with the proportion for 1990–94, and the unintended pregnancy rates were higher than in countries where abortion was broadly legal. Interpretation Between 1990–94 and 2015–19, the global unintended pregnancy rate has declined, whereas the proportion of unintended pregnancies ending in abortion has increased. As a result, the global average abortion rate in 2015–19 was roughly equal to the estimates for 1990–94. Our findings suggest that people in high-income countries have better access to sexual and reproductive health care than those in low-income countries. Our findings indicate that individuals seek abortion even in settings where it is restricted. These findings emphasise the importance of ensuring access to the full spectrum of sexual and reproductive health services, including contraception and abortion care, and for additional investment towards equity in health-care services. Funding UK Aid from the UK Government, Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, UNDP/UNFPA/UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (HRP), and The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Quantification and comparison of gene expression associated with iron regulation and metabolism in a virulent and attenuated strain of Flavobacterium psychrophilum.

Iron is essential for growth and virulence in most pathogenic bacterial strains. In some cases, the hosts for these pathogenic bacteria develop specialized strategies to sequester iron and limit infectivity. This in turn may result in the invading pathogens utilizing high-affinity iron transport mechanisms, such as the use of iron-chelating siderophores, to extend beyond the host defences. Flavobacterium psychrophilum, the causative agent of bacterial coldwater disease (BCWD) in salmonids, relies on iron metabolism for infectivity, and the genome of the model CSF-259-93 strain has recently been made available. Further, this strain serves as a parent strain for a live-attenuated vaccine strain, B.17, which has been shown to provide rainbow trout with protection against BCWD. To elucidate specific gene expression responses to iron metabolism and compare strain differences, both F. psychrophilum strains were grown under iron-limiting conditions and 26 genes related to iron metabolism were mapped for 96 hr in culture via qPCR analyses. Results indicate increased production of the ferrous iron transport protein B (FITB; p =.008), and ferric receptor CfrA (FR 1; p =.012) in the wild-type CSF-259-93 strain at 72 hr and 96 hr post-exposure to iron-limiting media. In the B.17 vaccine strain, siderophore synthase (SS) expression was found to be downregulated at 72 hr, in comparison with 0h (p =.018). When strains were compared, FITB (p =.021), FR1 (p =.009) and SS (p =.016) were also elevated in B.17 at 0 hr and TonB outer protein membrane receptor 1 (TBomr1; p =.005) had a lower expression at 96 hr. Overall, this study demonstrated strain-related gene expression changes in only a fraction of the iron metabolism genes tested; however, results provide insight on potential virulence mechanisms and clarification on iron-related gene expression for F. psychrophilum.
Splenic Abscess Complicating Bariatric Surgery : A Systematic Review.

IntroductionBariatric surgery has become one of the most rapidly growing subspecialty performed globally, and it has been well reported to be associated with low morbidity and mortality rates. Sple...
Deep Learning for Visual Analytics of the Spread of COVID-19 Infection in Crowded Urban Environments

AbstractThe novel SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus caused a global pandemic in 2020 with millions of diagnosed cases and a staggering number of deaths. As a preventive measure, many governments issued social...
Case Study: How Industrial Design Students Develop Videos to Connect with Potential Investors and Promote Their Ideas

The rise of crowdfunding websites such as Kickstarter and IndieGogo have had a significant impact on the business of Industrial Design. During the last ten years, industrial designers have been able to raise capital from online investors and donors to kick start their own projects. This phenomenon also had a significant impact on Industrial Design education. Students are now able to use these online platforms to test their ideas and eventually crowdfund their own projects after graduation.
Hydrophobic Optimization of Functional Poly(TPAE-co-suberoyl chloride) for Extrahepatic mRNA Delivery following Intravenous Administration

Messenger RNA (mRNA) has generated great attention due to its broad potential therapeutic applications, including vaccines, protein replacement therapy, and immunotherapy. Compared to other nucleic acids (e.g., siRNA and pDNA), there are more opportunities to improve the delivery efficacy of mRNA through systematic optimization. In this report, we studied a high-throughput library of 1200 functional polyesters for systemic mRNA delivery. We focused on the chemical investigation of hydrophobic optimization as a method to adjust mRNA polyplex stability, diameter, pKa, and efficacy. Focusing on a region of the library heatmap (PE4K-A17), we further explored the delivery of luciferase mRNA to IGROV1 ovarian cancer cells in vitro and to C57BL/6 mice in vivo following intravenous administration. PE4K-A17-0.2C8 was identified as an efficacious carrier for delivering mRNA to mouse lungs. The delivery selectivity between organs (lungs versus spleen) was found to be tunable through chemical modification of polyesters (both alkyl chain length and molar ratio in the formulation). Cre recombinase mRNA was delivered to the Lox-stop-lox tdTomato mouse model to study potential application in gene editing. Overall, we identified a series of polymer-mRNA polyplexes stabilized with Pluronic F-127 for safe and effective delivery to mouse lungs and spleens. Structure-activity relationships between alkyl side chains and in vivo delivery were elucidated, which may be informative for the continued development of polymer-based mRNA delivery.
Canonical correlation analysis of unobserved relationships in the new product process

Previous studies of success and failure in new product development have examined the effects of numerous variables upon new product outcomes. Some of these variables are controllable by the firm; many are not. This study employs canonical correlation analysis to investigate the nature of the interactions within and between two sets of variables (controllable and environmental) in the new product process. Several insightful implications for new product management are obtained and presented. Among these is the need for production and marketing synergy in new product development
Exterior Penalty Methods for Contact Problems in Elasticity

This paper reviews recent results of Oden, Kikuchi, and Song [4] on the use of exterior penalty methods as a basis for finite element approximations of contact problems in linear elasticity.
Superconducting thin-film YBa/sub 2/Cu/sub 3/O/sub 7-x/ resonators

Measurement of surface resistance R/sub S/ in thin films of YBa/sub 2/Cu/sub 3/O/sub 7-x/ produced by magnetron sputtering have been carried out using a stripline resonator. Four-pole microstrip bandpass filters have been fabricated using these thin films on 1.3*2.3-cm LaAlO/sub 3/ substrates. Such filters with a center frequency of 4.8 GHz and a bandwidth of 1% have exhibited a passband insertion loss as low as 0.5 dB at 77 K. The R/sub S/ of YBa/sub 2/Cu/sub 3/O/sub 7-x/ films has been found to increase with input power at power levels that depend on film quality, an effect that can be related to the RF magnetic field at the conductor surface. The power dependence of R/sub S/ leads to nonlinear effects, such as generation of harmonics and intermodulation products, which must be avoided in linear device applications. Measurements of intermodulation products in the filters are presented, as well as measurements of phase noise in filters and resonators. >
The neuroendocrine control of the menstrual cycle.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the construction of a model of the neuroendocrine control system that governs the 28-day ovarian cycle of the rhesus monkey. This model has three basic components: the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus, the gonadotrophs of the pituitary gland, and the ovary. The arcuate nucleus is the central component of the control system. The gonadotrophs respond to this unvarying pulsatile gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) stimulation by releasing pulses of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). Immature follicles respond to this unvarying gonadotropic stimulus by increasing in size and secreting increasing quantities of estradiol, which achieve maxima near mid-cycle. This process occupies approximately 14 days. The magnitude of the response to each GnRH pulse is modulated by estradiol acting directly on the gonadotrophs. The characteristic duration of the rhesus monkey ovarian cycle is thus determined by the duration of follicular development. This can occur in the presence of an absolutely unvarying pattern of hypophysiotropic stimulation.
A Case of Spurious Hypoxemia in an ICU Patient With Leukemic Blast Crisis

Arterial blood gas analysis is one of the most common tests performed on patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) to diagnose hypoxemia, a condition with low oxygen tension in the blood (PaO 2 ). Hypoxemia can be true or spurious/pseudo. One of the causes of spurious hypoxemia is the presence of metabolically active cells like white blood cells (WBCs) and platelets. We present a case of blast crisis due to acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) presenting with spurious hypoxemia which improved after leukapheresis in our ICU. J Med Cases. 2015;6(11):491-492 doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.14740/jmc2328w
Collaborative software and community building

How does collaborative software help in the formation of a learning community? This study looks at the experiences of students in a first level Computer Science class as they use Manhattan Virtual Classroom (MVC). Although this case study began with the assumption that a learning community would form, it quickly became obvious that student participation in the MVC was a larger issue. The course chosen for this study was CSC-150 - Foundations of Computer Science, as taught in the Spring 2004 semester at a Midwestern university. Two traditional (face-to-face) course sections were given access to Manhattan Virtual Classroom for the purpose of discussions, comments, questions, and virtual office hours. Many students did not take advantage of this collaborative tool. Several reasons are considered, the reluctance of freshmen to participate (Goldberg, 1997; Carlson et al., 1996), professor teaching style, and student perceptions of their own contributions to the class. Several conclusions are drawn from this study how to increase student participation. These include better training in the use of the software, use of smaller groups within the Manhattan Virtual Classroom environment, clearly stated professor expectations, and a general adoption of this technology for other classes.
Ultrastructural analysis of the distribution of synaptic boutons from labeled preganglionic axons on rabbit ciliary neurons

The number of preganglionic inputs that innervate rabbit ciliary ganglion cells is directly correlated with the number of dendrites arising from each ganglion cell (Purves and Hume, 1981). In general, the innervation of multiply innervated ciliary neurons by individual preganglionic axons is regionally restricted to a portion of the postsynaptic surface that usually includes the cell body and some, but not all, of the dendrites (Forehand and Purves, 1984). These observations suggest that dendrites modulate convergence to each cell by providing relatively separate postsynaptic domains for individual inputs. To examine this possibility further, I have assessed the distribution of synaptic boutons from individually labeled preganglionic axons on ciliary ganglion cells at the ultrastructural level. The results show that at least a third of the dendrites of these neurons are contacted exclusively by synaptic boutons from a single preganglionic axon. However, at least half of the dendrites (and nearly all of the cell bodies) of multiply innervated ganglion cells are innervated by at least 2 different preganglionic axons. Moreover, synapses from 2 different inputs often coexist in close proximity on the postsynaptic surface. Thus, individual preganglionic axons do not require exclusive dominion over a particular part of a postsynaptic cell in order to maintain their connection with the cell. These results suggest that competitive interactions between the inputs to these cells occur between the sets of boutons arising from different inputs, rather than at the level of individual boutons.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Transoral robotic surgery for carcinoma of unknown primary in the head and neck

Multiple diagnostic and treatment paradigms exist for the management of carcinoma of unknown primary (CUP) metastatic to cervical lymph nodes. Transoral robotic surgery (TORS) has emerged as a modality for diagnosis and treatment of CUP, optimizing identification and resection of the primary tumor, although also preventing chemotherapy in a subset of patients. This article presents the authors' treatment paradigm and reviews the literature supporting the use of TORS in the management of CUP.
Metamorphosis of the central nervous system of Drosophila

The study of the metamorphosis of the central nervous system of Drosophila focused on the ventral CNS. Many larval neurons are conserved through metamorphosis but they show pronounced remodeling of both central and peripheral processes. In general, transmitter expression appears to be conserved through metamorphosis but there are some examples of possible changes. Large numbers of new, adult-specific neurons are added to this basic complement of persisting larval cells. These cells are produced during larval life by embryonic neuroblasts that had persisted into the larval stage. These new neurons arrest their development soon after their birth but then mature into functional neurons during metamorphosis. Programmed cell death is also important for sculpting the adult CNS. One round of cell death occurs shortly after pupariation and a second one after the emergence of the adult fly.
Galerkin-wavelet modeling of wave propagation: Optimal finite-difference stencil design

In this paper, we describe a method for design of optimal finite-difference stencils for wave propagation problems using an intrinsically explicit Galerkin-wavelet formulation. The method enables an efficient choice of stencils optimal for a certain problem. We compare group velocity curves corresponding to stencils obtained by our choice of wavelet basis and traditional finite-difference schemes. Generally there exist choices of stencils with superior characteristics compared to conventional finite-difference stencils of the same size. Beside gain in accuracy, this leads to large computational savings.
Velocity variance comparisons under alternative policy regimes

This paper has shown that it is dangerous to make recommendations, concerning which money supply to control, based on a comparison of velocity variances which occurred during one historical policy regime. The policy recommendation could be sensitive to what the historical policy regime was, and in a wide variety of circumstances the policy recommendation could be wrong. An additional point should be made. Since interest rates were excluded from the model, it has not been analyzed for whether mistaken policy advice could be drawn from a velocity variance comparison on data observed during a regime of targeting short-term interest rates rather thanM1 orM2 (such as the pre-1970 period). Cagan [1982], Fellner [1982], and Kopcke [1983], for instance, make such comparisons. Given the results of this paper, however, it seems very likely that such an analysis would reinforce the strong cautionary point of this paper. Furthermore, if the historical regime did not involve an exclusive focus on one tool, but rather was a hybrid regime involving an ill-defined mixture of concern withM1,M2, and a short-term interest rate, then the cautionary point is further reinforced. Given the essentially negative result of this paper, that one cannot make a regime choice based on a simple velocity variance comparison, how can one choose the appropriate money supply to control? It would seem that there is no substitute for the use of a complete structural empirical model.
FAMILY VALUES, RELIGIOSITY, AND GENDER

This study investigated differences between men and women on perceptions of materialism, the importance of the family, and the traditional female role. It was hypothesized that highly religious wom...
Constitutively Active Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase and AKT Are Sufficient to Stimulate the Epithelial Na+/H+ Exchanger 3

Abstract Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI 3-kinase) is a cytoplasmic signaling molecule that is recruited to activated growth factor receptors and has been shown to be involved in regulation of stimulated exocytosis and endocytosis. One of the downstream signaling molecules activated by PI 3-kinase is the protein kinase Akt. Previous studies have indicated that PI 3-kinase is necessary for basal Na+/H+ exchanger 3 (NHE3) transport and for fibroblast growth factor-stimulated NHE3 activity in PS120 fibroblasts. However, it is not known whether activation of PI 3-kinase is sufficient to stimulate NHE3 activity or whether Akt is involved in this PI 3-kinase effect. We used an adenoviral infection system to test the possibility that activation of PI 3-kinase or Akt alone is sufficient to stimulate NHE3 activity. This hypothesis was investigated in PS120 fibroblasts stably expressing NHE3 after somatic gene transfer using a replication-deficient recombinant adenovirus containing constitutively active catalytic subunit of PI 3-kinase or constitutively active Akt. The adenovirus construct used was engineered with an upstream ecdysone promoter to allow time-regulated expression. Adenoviral infection was nearly 100% at 48 h after infection. Forty-eight hours after infection (24 h after activation of the ecdysone promoter), PI 3-kinase and Akt amount and activity were increased. Increases in both PI 3-kinase activity and Akt activity stimulated NHE3 transport. In addition, a membrane-permeant synthetic 10-mer peptide that binds polyphosphoinositides and increases PI 3-kinase activity similarly enhanced NHE3 transport activity and also increased the percentage of NHE3 on the plasma membrane. The magnitudes of stimulation of NHE3 by constitutively active PI 3-kinase, PI 3-kinase peptide, and constitutively active Akt were similar to each other. These results demonstrate that activation of PI 3-kinase or Akt is sufficient to stimulate NHE3 transport activity in PS120/NHE3 cells.
The Cellular Basis of Gastrulation in Xenopus laevis: Active, Postinvolution Convergence and Extension by Mediolateral Interdigitation

Time-lapse videomicrographic and SEM analyses of normal and microsurgically altered gastrulation show that the morphogenetic movements of the dorsal marginal zone (DMZ)—extension, convergence, and involution—all result from behavior that occurs after the marginal zone has involuted. Before its involution, the DMZ shows no detectable capacity for autonomous convergence or extension. If its involution is prevented, the DMZ will show convergence and extension but only at developmental stages at or beyond the stage at which it normally would have involuted. Thus autonomous convergence and extension, which have been ascribed to the DMZ are, in fact, properties of the dorsal mesodermal mantle (DMM) and the archenteron roof. SEM analysis of cell shape and packing patterns, suggest that cells of the DMM merge (interdigitate) mediolaterally, between one another, beginning just beyond the point of involution. This behavior is thought to reduce the width and increase the length (postinvolution convergence and extension) of the DMM. The decrease in circumference (width) at the vegetal-most part of the newly involuted DMM forms a constriction ring just inside the blastopore. Constriction and concurrent elongation of the DMM act in concert to move the blastoporal lip vegetally. The DMZ is passively pulled vegetally and over the blastoporal lip as deep cells are recruited for participation in mediolateral interdigitation at the vegetal end of the DMM.