cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Major influence of interobserver reliability on polytrauma identification with the Injury Severity Score (ISS): Time for a centralised coding in trauma registries?

Abstract Objective The Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) and the Injury Severity Score (ISS) find increasingly widespread use to assess trauma burden and to perform interhospital benchmarking through trauma registries. Since 2015, public resource allocation in Switzerland shall even be derived from such data. As every trauma centre is responsible for its own coding and data input, this study aims at evaluating interobserver reliability of AIS and ISS coding. Methods Interobserver reliability of the AIS and ISS is analysed from a cohort of 50 consecutive severely injured patients treated in 2012 at our institution, coded retrospectively by 3 independent and specifically trained observers. Results Considering a cutoff ISS ≥ 16, only 38/50 patients (76%) were uniformly identified as polytraumatised or not. Increasing the cut off to ≥20, this increased to 41/50 patients (82%). A difference in the AIS of ≥ 1 was present in 261 (16%) of possible codes. Excluding the vast majority of uninjured body regions, uniformly identical AIS severity values were attributed in 67/193 (35%) body regions, or 318/579 (55%) possible observer pairings. Conclusion Injury severity all too often is neither identified correctly nor consistently when using the AIS. This leads to wrong identification of severely injured patients using the ISS. Improving consistency of coding through centralisation is recommended before scores based on the AIS are to be used for interhospital benchmarking and resource allocation in the treatment of severely injured patients.
Integration of systems biology with organs-on-chips to humanize therapeutic development

“Mice are not little people” – a refrain becoming louder as the gaps between animal models and human disease become more apparent. At the same time, three emerging approaches are headed toward integration: powerful systems biology analysis of cell-cell and intracellular signaling networks in patient-derived samples; 3D tissue engineered models of human organ systems, often made from stem cells; and micro-fluidic and meso-fluidic devices that enable living systems to be sustained, perturbed and analyzed for weeks in culture. Integration of these rapidly moving fields has the potential to revolutionize development of therapeutics for complex, chronic diseases, including those that have weak genetic bases and substantial contributions from gene-environment interactions. Technical challenges in modeling complex diseases with “organs on chips” approaches include the need for relatively large tissue masses and organ-organ cross talk to capture systemic effects, such that current microfluidic formats often fail to capture the required scale and complexity for interconnected systems. These constraints drive development of new strategies for designing in vitro models, including perfusing organ models, as well as “mesofluidic” pumping and circulation in platforms connecting several organ systems, to achieve the appropriate physiological relevance.
False discovery rate control incorporating phylogenetic tree increases detection power in microbiome-wide multiple testing.

Motivation: Next generation sequencing technologies have enabled the study of the human microbiome through direct sequencing of microbial DNA, resulting in an enormous amount of microbiome sequencing data. One unique characteristic of microbiome data is the phylogenetic tree that relates all the bacterial species. Closely related bacterial species have a tendency to exhibit a similar relationship with the environment or disease. Thus, incorporating the phylogenetic tree information can potentially improve the detection power for microbiome-wide association studies, where hundreds or thousands of tests are conducted simultaneously to identify bacterial species associated with a phenotype of interest. Despite much progress in multiple testing procedures such as false discovery rate (FDR) control, methods that take into account the phylogenetic tree are largely limited. Results: We propose a new FDR control procedure that incorporates the prior structure information and apply it to microbiome data. The proposed procedure is based on a hierarchical model, where a structure-based prior distribution is designed to utilize the phylogenetic tree. By borrowing information from neighboring bacterial species, we are able to improve the statistical power of detecting associated bacterial species while controlling the FDR at desired levels. When the phylogenetic tree is mis-specified or non-informative, our procedure achieves a similar power as traditional procedures that do not take into account the tree structure. We demonstrate the performance of our method through extensive simulations and real microbiome datasets. We identified far more alcohol-drinking associated bacterial species than traditional methods. Availability and implementation: R package StructFDR is available from CRAN. Contact: chen.jun2@mayo.edu Supplementary information:Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Immunity at the forefront of the brain: A new genetic model of FTD

Functional characterization of a genetic variant linked to frontotemporal dementia in a murine model reveals deficits in cerebral immune response and metabolism.
Aggregation Method for Dynamic Models in Power System

Abstract A new method to aggregate dynamic response of large number of induction motors is developed. Each motor is represented by a bilinear system with voltage appearing as a multiplicative input. The algorithm approximates each motor by a set of basis models with prcspecified structure. The superposition principle is used to determine coefficients needed for aggregation. Approximation error of the proposed method is analyzed. The aggregation method car. be applied to study real and reactive power of in-duction motor loads for bus voltage dips.
Antitrust Law and Mass Media Regulation: Can Merger Standards Protect the Public Interest?

Two distinct views of the public interest objectives of American communications policy underlie the debate over deregulation of media ownership in the United States. Advocates of deregulation typically view the public interest through an efficiency-oriented model. In that model the policy goal is to promote competition that will lead media companies to better satisfy consumers' preferences. Opponents of deregulation typically view the public interest through a democracy model. In that model the policy goal is to preserve media access opportunities for diverse voices and to promote informed public discussion of important issues. These distinct formulations of the public interest lead to divergent opinions about the need for ownership rules and the consequences should the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Congress, and the courts leave media concentration to be controlled by general antitrust law. This Article discusses the competing models of the public interest and examines the FCC's ownership rules in light of those models. The paper then assesses the likelihood that antitrust enforcement would achieve the FCC's public interest objectives in a deregulated environment. The analysis concludes that in media markets antitrust is unlikely to further the FCC's democracy objectives and also faces serious obstacles to protecting even the economic, efficiency-oriented public interest objectives that are much closer to antitrust law's core purpose. Those challenges of protecting the public interest in media markets through antitrust should spark a forthright debate about what the objectives for mass media policy will be in a deregulated environment and cause policy officials to consider improving antitrust or developing other ways to achieve those objectives.
Rainbow from nowhere (Conference Presentation)

Filamentation in air is a profound effect caused by high energy photons. While it has been studied in a wide-range of laser systems, there still exist wavelength regimes where filamentation hasn’t been created, due to lack of sources. Using a tunable near-infrared femtosecond laser, we generated filamentation in air by wavelengths from 1.2 to 2.5 µm. The observed filaments produced harmonic and continuum generation well into the visible spectrum; a rainbow of colors.
Dural Cells Release Factors Which Promote Cancer Cell Malignancy and Induce Immunosuppressive Markers in Bone Marrow Myeloid Cells.

Background Thirty per cent of cancer patients develop spine metastases with a substantial number leading to spinal cord compression and neurological deficits. Many demonstrate a propensity toward metastasis to the posterior third of the vertebral body. The dura, the outer layer of the meninges, lies in intimate contact with the posterior border of the vertebral body and has been shown to influence adjacent bone. The effects of the dura on bone marrow and cancer cells have not been examined. Understanding the biology of spinal metastasis will provide insights into mechanisms of cancer growth and allow for new treatment strategies. Objective To examine the extent to which dura influences bone marrow/tumor cell metastatic characteristics. Methods Dura conditioned media (DCM) from primary dura was examined for the ability to stimulate tumor cell proliferation/invasion and to alter bone marrow cell populations. RNA sequencing of dural fibroblasts was performed to examine expression of cytokines and growth factors. Results DCM induced a significant increase in invasion and proliferation of multiple tumor cell lines, and of patient-derived primary spinal metastatic cells. DCM also increased the proliferation of bone marrow myeloid cells, inducing expression of immunosuppressive markers. RNA sequencing of dural fibroblasts demonstrated abundant expression of cytokines and growth factors involved in cancer/immune pathways. Conclusion Factors released by primary dural cells induce proliferation of tumor cells and alter bone marrow to create a fertile environment for tumor growth. The dura therefore may play an important role in the increased incidence of metastases to adjacent bone.
Writing for My Future: Transition-Focused Self-Advocacy of Secondary Students With Emotional/Behavioral Disorders:

Nine high school students with emotional and behavioral disorders received instruction on how to write argumentative essays to self-advocate for their transition-focused needs. A special education teacher and paraprofessional received training on the self-regulated strategy development (SRSD) model of writing instruction. They provided instruction to students 3 days a week, 40 min each session, for 12 to 14 days of strategy instruction. The teacher and the paraprofessional provided instruction with high fidelity. Using a single-subject multiple-probe-across-groups design, findings indicated a functional relation between SRSD instruction and all students’ writing skills. Students’ essays increased for organizational quality and self-advocacy in writing. Furthermore, students’ writing self-efficacy increased as a result of instruction. Teacher and student interviews revealed an overall satisfaction with SRSD procedures and results.
A Case Methodology of Action Research to Promote Rural Economic Development: Implications for LIS Education

This article explores a case methodology of action research in Tennessee and investigates how library and information science (LIS) educators can extend their social responsibility to the state’s s...
Minimally Invasive Treatment of GERD

A laparoscopic total fundoplication is considered today the gold standard for the surgical treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Short-term outcome is excellent, with low perioperative morbidity and fast recovery. Long-term follow-up has shown that symptom control is achieved in about 80–90 % of patients 10 years after a fundoplication.
Sacrobosco's Quadrans : Date and sources

Sacro Bosco (J.) est l'un des initiateurs du quadrant astronomique au Moyen Age qui participa a son elaboration et developpa ses applications astronomiques a partir des tables
CONCLUDING REMARKS ON PREHORMONES, PROHORMONES AND HORMONES

Publisher Summary This chapter presents the scheme by which peptide hormones are synthesized. The mRNA is transcribed in the nucleus of the cell. There is evidence that some mRNA's may be posttranscriptionally modified, that is, that pro-mRNA's may be made that in turn give rise to smaller mRNA's. The mRNA's are exported from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. There they are translated by ribosomes. The translation product is the preprohormone, the N-terminus of which is the signal or leader sequence. This amino acid sequence is typically quite hydrophobic and it passes into and through the endoplasmic membrane. It is then removed from the nascent peptide chain by a “signalase,” yielding the prohormone. Inside the endoplasmic space, the prohormone is processed into biologically active smaller molecules. This processing involves proteolysis and, in some cases, addition of functional groups. A number of strategies have been employed for characterizing preprohormones and prohormones. The earliest approach involved pulse labeling prohormones with radiolabeled amino acids and then isolating them.
Silêncio: Black Bodies, Black Characters, and the Black Political Persona in the Work of the Teatro Negro Group Cia dos Comuns

This essay engages with theories and methods from the fields of theater history, performance studies, and black studies to critically analyze the interplay of black performers/black characters as a key political-aesthetic device in the work of Brazilian teatro negro group Cia dos Comuns. The author argues that in the play Silencio, Cia dos Comuns greatly emphasizes the black body as a political-aesthetic device, which consequently complicates the group’s previous engagement with notions of national belonging, alterity, and references to African and Afro-Brazilian culture. In the process, Cia dos Comuns produces a black political persona that radicalizes the critiques of the marginal status of black people in Brazilian society while investing in the cultural connection with African culture as the means to ignite revolt.
Order-restricted linear congruences

Abstract We call the congruence a 1 x 1 + ⋯ + a k x k ≡ b ( mod n ) an order-restricted linear congruence if x 1 ≥ ⋯ ≥ x k . What can we say about the number of solutions of these congruences? In this paper we consider the special case of a i = 1 ( 1 ≤ i ≤ k ) , and using a result from the theory of partitions and also properties of Ramanujan sums and of the discrete Fourier transform of arithmetic functions, give an explicit formula for the number of solutions of such congruences. This generalizes the result of Riordan (1962) which gives an explicit formula for the special case of a i = 1 ( 1 ≤ i ≤ k ) , k = n , b = 0 .
Lower Limb Exoskeleton Systems—Overview

Abstract Lower body wearable robots, or lower limb exoskeletons, have developed rapidly in the past decade. These devices can be separated into three different categories: assistive exoskeletons, rehabilitation exoskeletons, and augmentation exoskeletons. Exoskeletons from the first two categories are designed for use on people with neurologic conditions or the elderly. Assistive exoskeletons mainly focus on users that have permanently lost their mobility. These exoskeletons assist/replace the impaired parts of the users, allowing users to live/behave like healthy people while wearing the devices. For this type of exoskeleton, precise position control with electrical motors is the most common combination. Alternatively, rehabilitation exoskeletons are intended for use by patients with disabilities that can be recovered through therapy and training. The goal of these systems is to create interactions with the users to rehabilitate them so that they may eventually function normally without the device. This type of exoskeleton often uses impedance control to create resisting forces for the training. The third category, augmentation exoskeletons, mainly aids healthy users. The goal of these exoskeletons is to enable performance of tasks that an able-bodied individual normally would be incapable of, or to reduce the effort required for tasks (less metabolic cost). Positive feedback or force control are often seen in this category since the device needs to follow the user’s motion. Actuators with higher power density are also more common (hydraulic, pneumatic, serial elastic actuator). Many successful exoskeletons can be found in the literature, yet the overall weight, stability, and users’ intention estimation are still under development. Exoskeletons that are light, stable, and can seamlessly cooperate with users will be the direction of future exoskeletons.
Phase behavior, thermodynamic and microstructure of concentrated pea protein isolate-pectin mixture: Effect of pH, biopolymer ratio and pectin charge density

Abstract The impact of pH, pea protein isolate (PPI)–pectin mixing ratio and pectin charge density on phase behavior (co-solubility, soluble complex and complex coacervates) of concentrated biopolymer mixture was investigated using state diagram and ζ–potential measurement. The microstructure, thermodynamic behavior, and non-covalent bonding of PPI to pectin were further explored by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). In general, the pH of soluble complex, complex coacervate formation shifted towards higher pH as PPI–pectin mixing ratio increased. Low methoxyl pectin (LMP) is favorable for complex coacervate over a wider pH range compared with high methoxyl pectin (HMP) due to its higher overall charge density. The CLSM images revealed that larger aggregates were formed in PPI-LMP coacervates. Both ITC and FTIR analyses indicated that soluble complex and complex coacervates were formed through the electrostatic interaction and hydrogen bonding between PPI and pectin.
Objective Morality, Subjective Morality, and the Explanatory Question

A common presupposition in metaethical theory is that moral assessment comes in (at least) two flavors, one of which is sensitive to our epistemic circumstances, the second of which is not so sensitive. Though this thought is popular, a number of questions arise. In this paper, I limit my discussion to what I dub the "explanatory question": how one might understand the construction of subjective moral assessment given an explanatorily prior objective assessment. I argue that a proper answer to this question is important not simply for its own sake, but because it also sheds new light on important challenges to the existence of both objective and subjective moral obligations.
A Complete Sample of Soft X-ray Selected AGN: II. Statistical Analysis

Direct correlations and a Principal Component Analysis (PCA) are presented for a complete sample of 110 soft X-ray selected AGN of which about half are Narrow-Line Seyfert 1 galaxies (NLS1s). The direct correlation analyses show that narrower FWHM(H-beta) correlates with steeper X-ray spectrum, stronger optical FeII emission, weaker [OIII] emission and stronger short-term X-ray variability. This direct correlation analysis and the PCA confirm the Boroson & Green (1992) Eigenvector 1 relationship for AGN: FeII strength anti-correlates with [OIII] line strength. Eigenvector 1 is well-correlated with the Eddington luminosity ratio L/L_Edd while Eigenvector 2 shows a very good correlation with the mass of the central black hole and the mass accretion rate. The Eddington ratio L/L_Edd correlates with the X-ray spectral index alpha-X and the black home mass anti-correlates with the X-ray variability chi^2/nu. The Eddington ration L/L_Edd may be interpreted as the age of an AGN: AGN with steep X-ray spectra, strong FeII, and weak [OIII] are AGN in an early phase of their evolution. In this hypothesis NLS1s are young AGN.
Bureaucratic Politics and Decision Making Under Uncertainty in a National Security Crisis: Assessing the Effects of International Relations Theory and the Learning Impact of Role-Playing Simulation at the U.S. Naval Academy

Using a pre-/posttest research design, this article measures the learning impact of active-learning techniques such as role-playing simulations in an international relations course. Using the students' different responses to the pre- and postsimulation surveys in a quasi-experimental design whereby two sections that were taught by the same instructor were given different sets of theoretical readings, this article shows how exposure to different decision-making theories has a measurable effect on how students behave in the role-playing simulation.
Children's and Adults' Views of Punishment as a Path to Redemption.

The current work investigated the extent to which children (N=171 6- to 8-year-olds) and adults (N = 94) view punishment as redemptive. In Study 1, children-but not adults-reported that "mean" individuals became "nicer" after one severe form of punishment (incarceration). Moreover, adults expected "nice" individuals' moral character to worsen following punishment; however, we did not find that children expected such a change. Study 2 extended these findings by showing that children view "mean" individuals as becoming "nicer" following both severe (incarceration) and relatively minor (time-out) punishments, suggesting that the pattern of results from Study 1 generalizes across punishment types. Together, these studies indicate that children-but not adults-may view punishment as a vehicle for redemption.
Radiology report language positively influences adrenal incidentaloma guideline adherence.

Abstract Background Adrenal incidentalomas are common radiographic findings. Guidelines recommend biochemical and radiographic surveillance of adrenal incidentalomas. We investigated if patients were appropriately referred for outpatient evaluation. Methods Retrospective chart review was performed to identify patients with adrenal masses on imaging between November 7, 2016 and November 7, 2017. Demographic information, medical history, and outpatient referral information was collected. Results 11,723 computed tomography (CT) scans of the chest and/or abdomen/pelvis were performed. 246 patients were noted to have adrenal incidentalomas and met inclusion criteria. The CT report recommended follow-up in 63/246 cases (25.6%). 38/246 (15.4%) patients were referred for evaluation. Age, adrenal nodule size, and type of evaluating provider did not affect referral. A radiology report recommending follow-up was associated with increased referral rate (OR 5.441, 95% CI: 2.491–11.887). Conclusion There was low outpatient referral for adrenal incidentalomas. Language in the radiology report significantly influenced referral rates and may be an important resource for improving guideline adherence.
DG-Labeler and DGL-MOTS Dataset: Boost the Autonomous Driving Perception.

Multi-object tracking and segmentation (MOTS) is a critical task for autonomous driving applications. The existing MOTS studies face two critical challenges: 1) the published datasets inadequately capture the real-world complexity for network training to address various driving settings; 2) the working pipeline annotation tool is under-studied in the literature to improve the quality of MOTS learning examples. In this work, we introduce the DG-Labeler and DGL-MOTS dataset to facilitate the training data annotation for the MOTS task and accordingly improve network training accuracy and efficiency. DG-Labeler uses the novel Depth-Granularity Module to depict the instance spatial relations and produce fine-grained instance masks. Annotated by DG-Labeler, our DGL-MOTS dataset exceeds the prior effort (i.e., KITTI MOTS and BDD100K) in data diversity, annotation quality, and temporal representations. Results on extensive cross-dataset evaluations indicate significant performance improvements for several state-of-the-art methods trained on our DGL-MOTS dataset. We believe our DGL-MOTS Dataset and DG-Labeler hold the valuable potential to boost the visual perception of future transportation.
The Van Gorder approach for total elbow arthroplasty.

Abstract Background Surgical management of the triceps during exposure for total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) is critical to a successful outcome. Previously described techniques include elevating the triceps insertion from one side, or leaving the triceps insertion attached and dislocating the joint. Another approach to the elbow, first described in 1933 by Willis Campbell, MD and subsequently modified by George Van Gorder, MD, involves turning down the triceps tendon without disrupting the triceps insertion. This approach offers complete visualization of the joint and provides excellent exposure for total elbow arthroplasty. Only the original report of the technique and a small series of patients using this technique for TEA exists in the literature. The goal of this study was to evaluate outcomes of the Van Gorder approach in a large series of patients undergoing TEA. Methods All patients who underwent total elbow arthroplasty from 2008 to 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Only patients who underwent primary TEA performed through the Van Gorder approach with at least 6 months follow-up were included for analysis. Patients with prior elbow surgery were excluded. Demographic data, indication for surgery, postoperative range of motion, triceps function, and need for additional surgery, were recorded. Prospectively collected Visual Analog Scores (VAS), and Global Health Quality of Life (GHQoL) scores were also analyzed. Results A total of 53 patients met inclusion criteria. Average age was 62 years, 81% were female, and the average follow-up was 30.2 months. The most common surgical indications included inflammatory arthritis (47%), osteoarthritis (24%), and fracture (19%). Postoperatively, average elbow arc of motion was an 8 to 137 degree. There was 1 patient (1.89%) who developed failure of their triceps extension mechanism. A total of 10 patients (19%) underwent additional elbow surgery most commonly for superficial wound complications. Preoperative VAS scores decreased significantly starting at 3 months postoperatively (6.76 to 3.37, p Conclusions This is the largest study evaluating the Van Gorder surgical approach to the elbow for primary total elbow arthroplasty with an average follow-up of 32 months. Overall rates of triceps failure and reoperation are consistent with other approaches for total elbow arthroplasty.
Fuzzy Inference Based FMEA for MR Image Based HDR Brachytherapy.

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S) MR image based HDR brachytherapy is a complex, time-constrained and resource-intensive procedure requiring significant coordination and cooperation of multi-departmental efforts. Failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA) is an effective risk evaluation tool for identifying all possible failure modes (FMs) that could potentially impact negatively on the patient's treatment. Given the complexity of the MR image based HDR brachytherapy clinical workflow, FMEA can play a critical role in improving quality measures for each task. However, assigning a value between 1 to 10 to each of risk factor in traditional FMEA is a subjective and challenging task for the relevant multi-disciplinary team and potentially can cause considerable discrepancy and inconsistency. In this study, we introduced fuzzy inference based FMEA to provide better understanding of FMs to improve the quality assurance program for an efficient workflow and improved patient safety. MATERIALS/METHODS A total of four major sub-processes and forty-five FMs were identified from "applicator insertion" to "treatment delivery". The fuzzy inference rule-based model uses three inputs of risk factors (severity, occurrence, and detectability) and single output of fuzzy risk priority number (RPN) consisting of five fuzzy linguistic terms (very low, low, medium, high, and very high) of triangular membership functions. This rule-based model is generated based on a set of fuzzy if-then rules by decision makers that relate input to output variables. Then, the defuzzification method was used to obtain a fuzzy RPN value. RESULTS The team identified top three FMs of traditional FMEA. These were incorrect insertion of applicators by wrong identification ultrasound track, applicator moves, and incorrect channel length. Different rankings were produced depending on the rules of decision maker in fuzzy inference FMEA. Top 3 FMs of fuzzy FMEA were identified as missed/not detecting errors during physics second check, wrong applicator reconstruction, and poor quality of MR image set. The differences between the two RPN rankings are due to rules of decision making considering the probability of detecting errors in later process and severity. CONCLUSION This is the first report for fuzzy inference based FMEA on MRI based HDR brachytherapy. The fuzzy FMEA model exhibits desirable properties that help overcome the drawbacks of the traditional FMEA and RPN, especially when dealing with multi-disciplinary team practice where their priorities on FMs are different. The results have been shared with team members, and mitigation plans are to be implemented for enhancing quality of care and improving patient safety.
Electronic Health Record and Patient Safety

While the advantages of EHRs are clear, there is a growing appreciation that there can be safety concerns with the increasing use of EHRs. Like any innovation, use of EHRs in clinical practice can lead to unanticipated and potentially adverse consequences on patient safety. In this chapter, we present three such unintended consequences of EHRs and what can be done to prevent them. The case studies describe clinical scenarios of an indwelling neuraxial catheters and anti-thrombotic medication, an incorrect heparin dose, and, conflicting chemotherapy orders. Applying the sociotechnical system model to performing root cause analysis on EHR-related adverse events can identify problems and point to their resolution. Analysis often reveals more than one cause that may involve people, technology, process, organization, and/or the external environment. Monitoring usage metrics and maintaining an issues log are vital tools for performance improvement in health IT. After implementation, all health IT requires care and sustenance. Ultimately, if implemented judiciously and maintained assiduously, health IT can indeed transform the delivery, quality and safety of health care.”
Mast cell-derived IL-33 orchestrates antigen-driven tissue inflammation by promoting a unique inflammatory basophil response (HYP3P.352)

While IL-33 is commonly described as an epithelial derived cytokine, we previously showed that IgE activation of mast cells induces IL-33 expression. In vivo, IgE-primed mast cells serve as peripheral sensors for antigen (Ag) and drive an early edema followed by an antigen-driven tissue inflammation (ADTI). Histamine drives the edematous response but the mechanisms controlling local ADTI are unclear. Here, we sought to examine the roles of IL-33 and its receptor, ST2 in this process. Using a passive cutaneous anaphylaxis model, we show that mast cell-derived IL-33 is both sufficient and necessary for the ADTI response, which is dominated by CD45+Gr-1high neutrophils. ST2-expressing basophils are essential for ADTI and we show that IL-33 serves to activate them, rather than cause migration. Using microarray analysis to examine responses to either IgE/Ag or IL-33 activation, we show that IL-33 promotes an atypical basophil response characterized by neutrophilic chemokines. Interestingly, we find that histamine is necessary for both phases but, while H1R or H2R are required for edema, ADTI is dependent on basophil expression of H4R. In summary, our findings define a mechanism through which mast cells regulate local tissue responses to Ag. We propose a model whereby mast cell histamine release initially attracts basophils via H4R. Basophils are then activated by mast cell-derived IL-33, via ST2, to produce an atypical profile of cytokines and chemokines that recruit neutrophils.
The Effects of Regular Tanning Bed Use and Increased Vitamin D Status on Serum Markers of Bone Turnover in Healthy Adult Women

Background: Vitamin D is a key nutrient in bone health and the vitamin D status of individuals with regular exposure to solar or artificial ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation is generally superior to those with limited exposure. Objective: By means of a cross-sectional, observational design, explore the association of serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations and biochemical markers of bone turnover across a spectrum of vitamin D status by comparing women who regularly use tanning beds with women of minimal UVB exposure. Methods: A total of 69 healthy women, ages 25–82y, were recruited. Serum concentrations of 25(OH)D, intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH), leptin, bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BAP), osteocalcin (OC), and C-terminal telopeptides of Type I collagen (CTx) were measured. Results: There were no significant differences in age, height, weight, BMI and dietary intakes between groups. Serum 25(OH)D concentrations were significantly higher in tanners (n = 20) compared with non-tanners (n = 49) (p < 0.0001). Serum iPTH concentrations were lower in tanners than in non-tanners (p < 0.0001) and were negatively correlated with serum 25(OH)D concentrations (r = –4571, p < 0.0001). Of the bone turnover markers, only serum OC concentrations were lower in tanners compared with non-tanners (p = 0.0002). After adjusting for age and menopausal status, osteocalcin was negatively correlated (r = –0.0178; p = 0.04) with 25(OH)D and positively correlated with iPTH (r = 0.035; p = 0.05). Conclusions: Our results show healthy women with regular UVB exposure via tanning beds have significantly greater vitamin D status and lower serum osteocalcin concentrations than those without and that there is a significant inverse relationship between serum serum 25(OH)D and osteocalcin concentrations which appears to be PTH-dependent.
Data sharing and its implications for academic libraries

Purpose – As an important aspect of the scientific process, research data sharing is the practice of making data used for scholarly research publicly available for use by other researchers. This paper seeks to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the data-sharing challenges and opportunities posed by the data deluge in academics. An attempt is made to discuss implications for the changing role and functioning of academic libraries. Design/methodology/approach – An extensive review of literature on current trends and the impact of data sharing is performed. Findings – The context in which the increasing demands for data sharing have arisen is presented. Some of the practices, trends, and issues central to data sharing among academics are presented. Emerging implications for academic libraries that are expected to provide a data service are discussed. Originality/value – An insightful review and synthesis of context, issues, and trends in data sharing will help academic libraries to plan and develo...
Bacillus thuringiensis Insecticidal Proteins: Molecular Mode of Action

Growing interest in biorational pesticides has placed the Bacillus thuringiensis insecticidal crystal proteins at the forefront of pesticides for plant genetic engineering. The development of improvement pesticides, both in enhanced activity and broader host range, depends on an understanding of its mechanism of action. This review presents a complete overview of the bacterium and the group of insecticidal proteins known as Cry proteins or delta-endotoxins. The molecular mode of action is described in detail, including the mapping of receptor binding sites by site-directed mutagenesis, the known receptors, and the ion-channel activity of the toxins.
The effects of information and communication technology on at risk children of low economic status: Make It-Take It Case Study

The Institute for the Study of Digital Inclusion’s (ISDI) promotes digital inclusion through dispersion of computers and technological knowledge to at risk children of low economic status within the State of Florida. The goals of this study were to determine: 1) Will providing the children with computer skills and knowledge influence academic performance? 2) Will digital literacy increase student’s commitment and desire to actively participate in the learning processes? Our findings indicate a direct increase in academic performance and more active participation in learning processes by students that completed the Make It-Take It program.
Programming Overlay Networks with Overlay Sockets

The emergence of application-layer overlay networks has inspired the development of new network services and applications. Research on overlay networks has focused on the design of protocols to maintain and forward data in an overlay network, however, less attention has been given to the software development process of building application programs in such an environment. Clearly, the complexity of overlay network protocols calls for suitable application programming interfaces (APIs) and abstractions that do not require detailed knowledge of the overlay protocol, and, thereby, simplify the task of the application programmer. In this paper, we present the concept of an overlay socket as a new programming abstraction that serves as the end point of communication in an overlay network. The overlay socket provides a socket-based API that is independent of the chosen overlay topology, and can be configured to work for different overlay topologies. The overlay socket can support application data transfer over TCP, UDP, or other transport protocols. This paper describes the design of the overlay socket and discusses API and configuration options. The overlay socket has been used to develop a variety of applications, from multicast-file transfer programs, to multicast video streaming systems.
Very low bit-rate video coding using matching pursuits

The term matching pursuits refers to a greedy algorithm which matches signal structures to a large, diverse dictionary of functions. The technique was proposed by Mallat and Zhang with an application to signal analysis. In this paper, we show how matching pursuits can be used to effectively code the motion residual in a hybrid video coding system at bit rates below 20 kbit/s. One advantage of this technique at low bit rates is that bits are assigned progressively to high energy areas in the motion residual. The proper choice of a dictionary set can lead to other advantages. For instance, a large dictionary with a wide variety of structures can represent a residual signal using fewer coefficients than the DCT basis. Also, a dictionary which is not block-based can reduce block distortions common to low bit rate DCT systems. Experimental results are presented in which the DCT residual coder from a standard coding system is replaced by a matching pursuit coder. These results show a substantial improvement in both PSNR and perceived visual quality. Further improvements result when the matching pursuit coder is paired with a smooth motion model using overlapping motion blocks.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Unsupervised pattern recognition for digital waveform classification from radiation detectors

We have addressed the problem of analyzing the digital pulse waveforms of radiation detector outputs. With the availability of extremely high-speed A/D conversion with good resolution, it is now possible to look more deeply at the waveform shapes than is currently done. In our studies, a new technique of unsupervised pattern recognition has been applied which has demonstrated accurate classification (98.33% in probability) of digital pulse waveforms. To the best of our knowledge, application of such a technique is novel. The preliminary results of this system, which show clearly improved measurement conditions, are therefore very promising.
Particle characteristics from light scattering measurements

The effects of the physical characteristics of particles that influence light scattering have been examined. Measurements were made of the polarization and angular distribution of 6328 A He-Ne laser light scattered by various latex-sphere hydrosols. Some measurements were compared with Mie theory calculations, and additional calculations were made to determine the effect on scattering of variation in particle size and index of refraction. Laser and incoherent light scattering patterns are the same. Measurements are also given showing the nature of polarization of the scattered light for various types of incident polarization. Results of this work indicate that laser light scattering techniques can be used to obtain useful information on the properties of atmospheric aerosols. DOI: 10.1111/j.2153-3490.1969.tb00434.x
Translocation blockage by sieve plate callose.

Axial translocation in 2-week-old cotton plants was inhibited by heating 4 cm of intact hypocotyl for 15 min by means of a 40–45° water jacket. A 1-cm jacket did not retard translocation, and temperatures below 40° had no effect. Translocation continued to be inhibited for at least 3 hours following heat treatment. After 6 hours, rates were equal to or above normal. Maximum amounts of callose were deposited on sieve plates after the heat treatment, but callose was noticeably diminished within 6 hours after heating and reduced to virtually normal levels within 2 days. Growth measurements, plasmolytic tests, vital staining, and visual observations revealed no evidence of injury in plants heated at 45°. Pore constriction from increased amounts of callose on sieve plates appears to be an effect of heating. Increased resistance due to such constriction may be an important factor in blockage of basipetal phloem translocation.
Stress-relaxation technique for deformation studies in four-point bend tests: application to polycrystalline ceramics at elevated temperatures

The advantages of the stress-relaxation technique can be effectively realized by applying the procedure to conventional four-point bend tests usually employed in the deformation studies of ceramic materials. A test system and procedure for determining plastic strain rate-stress relationships at elevated temperatures (up to 1600° C) by the stress-relaxation method is described. An analysis to calculate true plastic strains and stresses from measured deflections and loads is presented and it is shown that such an analysis requires minimum assumptions regarding the materials behaviour. Preliminary results obtained on an iron-doped MgO specimen are discussed and compared with the constant load test results obtained on identical specimens. Sources of error in the four-point bend stressrelaxation tests and the methods to minimize them are also discussed.
The Larval Development of Sesarma Reticulatum Say- Reared in the Laboratory1)

Le developpement larvaire de Sesarma reticulatum a ete suivi en laboratoire de l'eclosion au premier stade crabe et au dela. Il y a trois stades zoe et un stade megalope dans le developpement complet avant le stade crabe. Les auteurs donnent une description de chaque stade larvaire et discutent les caracteres qui peuvent etre utilises pour distinguer les larves de S. reticulatum de celles de S. cinereum. Environ 1200 larves ont ete elevees sous cinq photoperiodes experimentales et une naturelle: 24, 18, 12, 6 et 0 heures de lumiere. La photoperiode n'affecte ni la duree des stades larvaires individuels, ni la survie jusqu'au stade crabe. Le developpement complet jusqu'au crabe (25° C, 25 ‰ necessite un minimum de 15 jours et un maximum de 30 jours apres l'eclosion. La survie jusqu'a la megalope varie de 46 a 100 %, alors que de 1 a 33% des larves survivent jusqu'au premier stade crabe dans toutes les conditions experimentales. Aucune variation dans les details morphologiques ni dans le nombre des stades larvaires n'a ete observee avec les photoperiodes experimentales.
Motivating the unmotivated state employee through workplace participation: research note from a pre- and post-intervention panel study

This paper examines the relatively uninvestigated topic of the ‘unmotivated’ worker through analysis of archival data pertaining to employees of the State of Washington. Two general areas of concern are addressed by this study. First, a comparison of motivated and unmotivated public employees is made along dimensions of work-related attitudes (e.g., work ethic values, perceptions of the quality of supervision, degree of job enrichment in one's. work, and adequacy of rewards). Second, panel data is used to obtain an estimate of the effects of a participative management intervention. On the basis of comparisons of pre-.and post-intervention survey findings, suggestions for improving the commitment to task of the non-motivated worker are formulated. The results obtained from the Washington study suggest that commitments to task among unmotivated employees may be improved through a participative process reflecting trust in employee capacity for workplace contribution.
Insulin mediator stimulation of pyruvate dehydrogenase phosphatases.

Abstract A two stage assay for detecting insulin mediator based upon its stimulation of soluble pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) phosphatase to activate soluble pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC) has been developed. This coupled assay determines the activation of PDC by monitoring production of [14C]CO2 from [1-14C]pyruvic acid. In addition to being more sensitive than the rat liver mitoplast assay previously used, it allows for the separation and investigation of the effects of mediator on the PDH phosphatases individually. It has been previously shown that the insulin mediator stimulates the most abundant PDH phosphatase, the divalent cation dependent PDH phosphatase, by decreasing the phosphatase's metal requirement (1). A metal independent PDH phosphatase has been found in bovine heart mitochondria. This phosphatase is not immunoprecipitated by antiphosphatase 2A antibody, it is not inhibited by okadaic acid, and it is not stimulated by spermine. However, it is stimulated (more than threefold) by insulin mediator prepared from isolated rat liver membranes. It is inhibited by Mg-ATP, with half-maximal inhibition at 0.3 m m ; however, this inhibition is overcome by the insulin mediator.
Asymptotic surface field of slot antenna on coated cylindrical conductor

It is shown that the asymptotic field near a conducting cylinder with a dissipative coating and circumferential delta source decreases as z−mwith distance z from the source. When the excitation varies as elmΦ with azimuthal angle Φ the relations n = |m|(m ≠0) and n = 2 (m = 0) determine the power n.
Replacing Fallow with Cover Crops in a Semiarid Soil: Effects on Soil Properties

Replacement of fallow in crop–fallow systems with cover crops (CCs) may improve soil properties. We assessed whether replacing fallow in no-till winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)–fallow with winter and spring CCs for 5 yr reduced wind and water erosion, increased soil organic carbon (SOC), and improved soil physical properties on a Ulysses silt loam (fine-silty, mixed, superactive, mesic Aridic Haplustolls) in the semiarid central Great Plains. Winter triticale (×Triticosecale Wittm.), winter lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.), spring lentil, spring pea (Pisum sativum L. ssp.), and spring triticale CCs were compared with wheat–fallow and continuous wheat under no-till management. We also studied the effect of triticale haying on soil properties. Results indicate that spring triticale and spring lentil increased soil aggregate size distribution, while spring lentil reduced the wind erodible fraction by 1.6 times, indicating that CCs reduced the soil’s susceptibility to wind erosion. Cover crops also increased wet aggregate stability and reduced runoff loss of sediment, total P, and NO₃–N. After 5 yr, winter and spring triticale increased SOC pool by 2.8 Mg ha–¹ and spring lentil increased SOC pool by 2.4 Mg ha–¹ in the 0- to 7.5-cm depth compared with fallow. Triticale haying compared with no haying for 5 yr did not affect soil properties. Nine months after termination, CCs had, however, no effects on soil properties, suggesting that CC benefits are short lived in this climate. Overall, CCs, grown in each fallow phase in no-till, can reduce soil erosion and improve soil aggregation in this semiarid climate.