cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Biologisch aktive Analoga der extrazellulären Matrix – künstliche Haut und Nerven

Die Entwicklung von Tieren beginnt mit einer einzigen Zelle, die sich teilt; die neuen Zellen differenzieren zu hochspezifischen Geweben, Organen und Gliedern, und der kleine, aber funktionstuchtige Organismus erreicht irgendwann seine volle Grose. Wahrend dieser Entwicklung durchlaufen auch die extrazellularen Matrices (ECM), d. h. komplexe makromolekulare Netzwerke, drastische Veranderungen. Matrixtransformationen steuern mitunter die viel besser untersuchten Anderungen von Anzahl und Typus der differenzierenden Zellen. ECM-Netzwerke werden meist enzymatisch zu Oligopeptiden abgebaut und danach neu synthetisiert (umgestaltet), wobei sich unlosliche und nicht diffundierende makromolekulare Strukturen bilden, die vielzelligen Systemen ihre Form verleihen. Reife ECM wie Haut, Sehnen, Knorpel und Blutgefase geben Organen und Geweben Steifheit und Stabilitat. Eine Umgestaltung der ECM tritt wahrend der Wundheilung auch in erwachsenen Organismen auf. Der Einsatz von synthetischen ECM-Analoga kann helfen, die Bedeutung der ECM fur die Entwicklung oder Wundheilung zu verstehen. Es wurden einfache chemische Analoga synthetisiert, von denen einige eine bemerkenswerte biologische Aktivitat aufweisen, darunter eins, das die partielle Regeneration der Haut sowohl bei erwachsenen Meerschweinchen als auch beim Menschen induziert. Mit einem ahnlichen ECM-Analogon wurden auch periphere Nerven regeneriert. Derartige verletzte Hautpartien und Nerven regenerieren sich bei Wirbeltieren nicht spontan. Verfahren zur Herstellung der ECM-Analoga mit masgeschneiderten physikalisch-chemischen Eigenschaften wie Geschwindigkeit des enzymatischen Abbaus nach Implantation, Porenstruktur und Grad der Collagenkristallinitat werden in diesem Aufsatz zusammengefast. ECM-Analoga zeigen vollig neue Wege bei der Behandlung von ernsten Organfehlfunktionen und Organverlust. Ein ECM-Analogon ist bereits die Basis einer klinischen Behandlung von Patienten mit starken Brandverletzungen. Eine Interpretation der Ergebnisse fuhrt zu einer Hypothese uber die Natur der ECM wahrend der Entwicklung. Da biologische Aktivitat nur dann beobachtet wird, wenn die physikalisch-chemischen Parameter innerhalb enger Grenzen liegen, konnte man die ECM als einen unloslichen Wachstumsfaktor beschreiben, der fur die Synthese von Gewebe spezifisch ist. Moglicherweise benotigt jedes Gewebe zur Entwicklung eine eigene ECM.
Design and Free-Space Measurements of Broadband, Low-Loss Negative-Permeability and Negative-Index Media

We present the design and measurement of broadband, volumetric negative-permeability and negative-refractive-index (NRI) media. Both of these media are fabricated using standard printed-circuit-board techniques and operate at X-band frequencies. The S-parameters of four-cell slabs of the negative-permeability and NRI media are measured, and the material parameters of the NRI lens are extracted. The four-cell-thick (λ0/3) NRI lens exhibits a backward-wave bandwidth of 41.2% and a total loss of 0.67 dB at the operating frequency (where μr ≈ -1). Super-resolved focusing in free space is also demonstrated, and spatial frequencies beyond the free-space wavenumber are recovered over a bandwidth of 7.4%. A focus with a half-power beamwidth of 0.27λ0 is achieved at 10.435 GHz.
Yellowjackets ( Vespula pensylvanica ) thermoregulate in response to changes in protein concentration

Social insects can modulate body temperature to increase foraging efficiency; however, little is known about how the relative value of protein resources affects forager body temperature. Such regulation may be impor- tant given that colony growth is often limited by protein availability. In this paper, we present what are, to our knowledge, the first data for social insects showing that thoracic temperatures (Tth) of foragers increase with the protein content of food resources. In an introduced population of western yellowjacket (Vespula pensylvan- ica), we measured Tth of foragers collecting high-quality protein (100% canned chicken) and low-quality protein (50% canned chicken, 50% indigestible alpha-cellulose by volume) at different ambient air temperatures (Ta). Wasps foraging on 100% chicken consistently exhibited higher Tth compared to wasps foraging on 50% chicken. After correcting for Ta, the mean Tth for wasps collecting 100% chicken were 1.98°C higher than those of individuals collecting 50% chicken. We suggest that this mechanism may increase foraging efficiency in this and other social wasp species.
Multisensor comparisons and validation of MODIS vegetation indices at the semiarid Jornada experimental range

Vegetation indices (VIs) are one of the standard science products available from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) instrument on the Earth Observing System (EOS) Terra platform, launched in December 1999. An important requirement of MODIS science products is that they be rigorously validated. In this study, we conducted a site-intensive MODIS VI product validation at the semiarid Jornada Experimental Range, New Mexico, an EOS Land Validation Core Site. Our validation approach involved scaling up independent fine-grained datasets, including ground and airborne radiometry, and high spatial resolution imagery [Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus (ETM+)], to the coarser MODIS spatial resolutions. The MODIS VIs were evaluated with respect to their radiometric performances, the uncertainties of the compositing methodology, and their capabilities to depict seasonal variations in vegetation. The MODIS Quick Airborne Looks (MQUALS) radiometric package was found useful in up-scaling field in situ measurements to coarser spatial resolutions. Both single-day nadir-view and 16-day composited MODIS reflectances and VIs matched well with the nadir-based atmosphere-free MQUALS observations for all the land cover types found at Jornada, with the root mean squared deviations less than 0.03. The MODIS 16-day composited products also performed well with the single-day nadir-view MODIS data, despite some off-nadir view angles and uncertainties with the cloud mask algorithm. The quality assurance (QA)-based constrained view angle-maximum value composite (CV-MVC) algorithm successfully filtered out much of the cloud and aerosol contaminated observations and helped to minimize view angle-related problems. The MODIS seasonal VI profiles also matched quite well with the other multiple sensor datasets obtained at the finer spatial resolutions. The QA information was found to be crucial in achieving consistent spatial and temporal comparisons of global vegetation conditions and for deriving accurate depictions of important phenological features in multitemporal MODIS data. The results of this validation study over the Jornada Experimental Range demonstrated the accuracy, reliability, and science utility of the MODIS VI products in arid and semiarid areas.
Comparison of the platelet-rich plasma and buffy coat protocols for preparation of canine platelet concentrates

Author(s): Hoareau, Guillaume L; Jandrey, Karl E; Burges, Julie; Bremer, Daphne; Tablin, Fern | Abstract: BackgroundPlatelet (PLT) concentrates (PC) can be produced via the buffy coat (BC) or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) protocols. The 2 methods have not been compared with canine blood.ObjectivesThe aims of the study were to compare the PLT, WBC, and RBC concentrations, in vitro PLT function, and markers of platelet storage lesion (PSL) in canine PC generated by 2 different protocols, and determine microbial growth throughout storage.MethodsPC from 8 healthy donor dogs were produced using 2 standard protocols, PRP and BC. PLT, WBC, and RBC counts, optical aggregometry assays, and PSL markers (pH, pCO2 , HCO3 , lactate and glucose concentrations, and LDH activity) were determined on storage days 0, 1, 3, 5, and 7. Aerobic and anaerobic bacterial cultures were also performed.ResultsMean PLT counts were comparable between protocols and remained stable throughout storage up to day 7, while median WBC and RBC counts on day 0 were significantly higher in the BC-PC group (17,800nWBCs/μL; 195,000nRBCs/μL) than in the PRP-PC group (200nWBCs/μL; 10,000nRBCs/μL) (Pn=n.012). In PRP-PC aggregometry, the median slope and amplitude in response to γ-thrombin and convulxin (+ ADP) were significantly decreased, and virtually absent in BC-PC during storage. PSL markers (lactate, LDH activity) were higher in BC-PC. Aerobic bacterial growth was observed in 2 PRP-PC and 1 BC-PC.ConclusionsThis in vitro study suggests that PRP-PC had lesser WBC and RBC contamination and superior PLT function compared with BC-PC. In vivo studies are required to address safety and efficacy of PRP-PC.
An Example of Using Linear Regression of Seasonal Weather Patterns to Enhance Undergraduate Learning

Group activities are an excellent way to enhance learning. When students are actively involved in a relevant project, understanding and retention are improved. The proposed activity introduces a timely and interesting project typical of the type encountered in statistical practice. Using the computer to successfully developing an appropriate model is a valuable educational experience that builds confidence.
Cocaine Dependence and Concurrent Marijuana Use: A Comparison of Clinical Characteristics

Background/Objectives: Marijuana is the most commonly used illicit substance, yet among the least studied in medication development research. Cocaine-dependent individuals frequently also use marijuana; however, little is known about the effect of this combined use on treatment presentation. Methods: Marijuana use was assessed in 1183 individuals seeking outpatient treatment for cocaine dependence. Based on past 30 days of use, the sample was divided into three groups: () patients reporting no recent marijuana use (n = 634); () occasional use (n = 403); () and frequent concurrent marijuana use (n = 146). Differences on baseline measures of substance use, addiction severity (ASI), psychopathology, and sociodemographic characteristics were examined as a function of level of marijuana use. Results: Frequent marijuana users were more likely to be female, Caucasian, and younger than other groups. Cocaine-dependent patients with frequent marijuana use also used more cocaine and alcohol, and reported more medica...
Parent and Subsidiary Earnings Announcements and Parent and Subsidiary Valuation

Abstract A firm's earnings announcements are an important source of value relevant information to market participants. They are, however, only one such source of information. The study reported in this paper involves another source of information: the earnings announcements within pairs of parents and their majority-held subsidiaries. We examine both firms ‘security price reactions to both firms’ earnings announcements for evidence of information flows within the pairs of firms. We find significant parent and subsidiary price reactions at their own earnings announcements only when the announcement is the first within a parent-subsidiary pair. The implication is that the first earnings announcement pre-empts some of the information released by the later announcing firm. In addition, parent firms also exhibit significant price reactions to subsidiary earnings announcements when subsidiaries announce earnings first. The magnitude of the parent price reactions suggests that incremental information is conveyed...
Moisture Controls on Trace Gas Fluxes in Semiarid Riparian Soils

Variability in seasonal soil moisture (SM) and temperature (T) can alter ecosystem/atmosphere exchange of the trace gases carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrous oxide (N2O), and methane (CH4). This study reports the impact of year-round SM status on trace gas fluxes in three semiarid vegetation zones, mesquite (30 g organic C kg 21 soil), open/ forb (6 g organic C kg 21 soil), and sacaton (18 g organic C kg 21 soil) from July 2002–September 2003 in southeastern Arizona. Carbon dioxide and N2O emissions were highly dependent on available SM and T. During the heavy rains of the 2002 monsoon (238 mm total rainfall), large differences in soil C content did not correlate with variations in CO2 production, as efflux averaged 235.6 6 39.5 mg CO2 m 22 h 21 over all sites. In 2003, limited monsoon rain (95 mm total rainfall) reduced CO2 emissions by 19% (mesquite), 40% (open), and 30% (sacaton), compared with 2002. Nitrous oxide emissions averaged 21.1 6 13.4 (mesquite), 2.1 6 4.4 (open), and 3.9 6 5.2 m gN 2 Om 22 h 21 (sacaton) during the 2002 monsoon. Limited monsoon 2003 rainfall reduced N2O emissions by 47% in the mesquite, but N2O production increased in the open (55%) and sacaton (5%) sites. Following a dry winter and spring 2002 (15 mm total rainfall), premonsoon CH4 consumption at all sites was close to zero, but following monsoon moisture input, the CH4 sink averaged 26.1 6 6.3 m gC H4 m 22 h 21 through April 2003. Laboratory incubations showed potentials for CH4 oxidation from 0 to 45 cm, suggesting that as the soil surface dried, CH4 oxidation activity shifted downward in the sandy soils. Predicted climate change shifts in annual precipitation from one dominated by summer monsoon rainfall to one with higher winter precipitation may reduce soil CO2 and N2O emissions while promoting CH4 oxidation rates in semiarid riparian soils of the Southwest, potentially acting as a negative feedback for future global warming.
Factors influencing food intake of Hispanic children

Abstract The diets of Hispanic children are high in fat and low in fruits and vegetables, which may contribute to their high rates of obesity. Research has revealed that environmental factors, such as household structure, family attitudes towards food and the social context of food messages influence children's food intake. Ethnicity or level of acculturation in Hispanic families may moderate these relationships, but additional research is needed to more fully understand the effects of the process of acculturation on children's diets. More importantly, intervention research is needed to develop and implement programs that may be used to shape public health practice and policies.
Disability Policy and Politics . Considering Consumer Influences

This historical case study of the League of the Physically Handicapped, a disability-rights activist group in Depression-era New York City, examines some of the ways in which people with disabiliti...
Effect of time and dose of recombinant follicle stimulating hormone agonist on the superovulatory response of sheep

The objective of this study was to determine the superovulatory potential of a single-chain analog of human FSH (Fcα) when administered to ewes either 3 days before, or coincident with, simulated luteolysis (pessary removal [PR]). A total of 40 animals were randomly assigned to receive Fcα at doses of 0.62, 1.25, or 2.5 IU/kg of body weight (bwt) 3 days before PR or 0.31, 0.62, 1.25, or 2.5 IU/kg of bwt at PR. Control ewes received protein without FSH activity. Blood samples were collected during the periovulatory period and ovarian tissue was collected 11 days after PR. Ovulation rate did not differ from the control group in ewes receiving the smallest doses of Fcα (0.31 and 0.62 IU/kg). However, a significant superovulatory response was noted in sheep receiving Fcα at doses of 1.25 and 2.5 IU/kg and this response was comparable in animals receiving the largest dose levels of Fcα at, or 3 days before, PR. The interval between PR and the LH surge was significantly extended and the LH surges were less synchronous in animals receiving Fcα at PR when compared with animals receiving the potent FSH agonist 3 days before PR. Taken together, these data indicate that the human single-chain gonadotropin with FSH activity promotes superovulation in ewe lambs in the breeding season. A single injection of the recombinant gonadotropin 3 days before luteolysis synchronizes the LH surge. The use of the single-chain analog of FSH in assisted reproduction for domestic animals is likely to be of practical significance as an alternative to conventional gonadotropins in superovulation protocols in livestock species.
Liquid Cell Transmission Electron Microscopy

Liquid cell transmission electron microscopy (TEM) has attracted significant interest in recent years. With nanofabricated liquid cells, it has been possible to image through liquids using TEM with subnanometer resolution, and many previously unseen materials dynamics have been revealed. Liquid cell TEM has been applied to many areas of research, ranging from chemistry to physics, materials science, and biology. So far, topics of study include nanoparticle growth and assembly, electrochemical deposition and lithiation for batteries, tracking and manipulation of nanoparticles, catalysis, and imaging of biological materials. In this article, we first review the development of liquid cell TEM and then highlight progress in various areas of research. In the study of nanoparticle growth, the electron beam can serve both as the illumination source for imaging and as the input energy for reactions. However, many other research topics require the control of electron beam effects to minimize electron beam damage. ...
Rotational analysis of the 3 Π 0 (0 + )− 1 Σ + (0 + ) system of indium iodide

The 3Π−1Σ+ band systems of InI were observed in both emission and absorption. Twenty new bandheads were observed. Rotational parameters for the 3Π0(0+) state were determined from an analysis of seven bands. Vibrational parameters for the 3Π1(1),3Π0(0+), and 1Π+(0+) states have been improved substantially.
Automatic construction of coordinated performance skeletons

Performance prediction is particularly challenging for dynamic and unpredictable environments that cannot be modeled well, such as execution with sharing of CPU and bandwidth resources. Our approach to performance estimation in such scenarios is based on actual execution of short running customized performance skeletons for target applications. This work focuses on automatic construction of performance skeletons for parallel MPI programs. Logicalization of a family of traces to a single trace is presented as a key technique for skeleton construction. Compression of communication traces is achieved by identifying the loop structure from traces. Results are presented that demonstrate that logicalization and compression are accurate and efficient. Automatically constructed performance skeletons were able to effectively predict application performance in a variety of scenarios involving resource sharing and changes in the execution environment.
Proposal for an Approach to Achieve CDM Reliability

This paper presents an overview of the reliability program to be conducted for the design and manufacture of the Collider Dipole Magnet (CDM). Reliability requirements, methods of analysis, and accelerated test methods are discussed.
TOWARD A COMPUTATIONAL THEORY OF SPEECH PERCEPTION

In recent years, a great deal of evidence has been collected which gives substantially increased insight into the nature of human speech perception. It is the author's belief that such data can be effectively used to infer much of the structure of a practical speech recognition system. This paper details a new view of the role of structural constraints within the several structural domains (e. g. articulation, phonetics, phonology, syntax, semantics) that must be utilized to infer the desired percept.
Modeling cognitive radio networks in NetLogo

Cognitive radio exhibits features typical to complex adaptive systems. As such, it requires multidisciplinary research, which can be difficult without a "common language". An accessible experimentation platform, a "playground", could serve as that language. Unfortunately, commonly used wireless network simulators are too esoteric for non-specialists and offer very little in support of cognitive radio studies. Agent-based modeling provides a viable alternative that we successfully tested in the past by building a framework in RePast. This work presents a simpler, "entry-level", version developed in NetLogo, an accessible and popular platform that allows users to quickly learn the agent-based approach. Our NetLogo model is simple, but flexible enough to conduct a wide range of experiments. Its usefulness was confirmed in classroom and research group settings, where we were able to explain basics of agent-based modeling, demonstrate basics of complexity, and run interactive cognitive radio experiments without extensive training.
Incentivizing Participation Increases Political Information: Evidence from a Randomized Field Experiment

This paper presents the results from a field experiment designed to test the hypothesis that incentivizing actors to participate will also cause them to become more informed about the election. The experiment includes an intensive mobilization treatment integrated into a panel survey conducted before and after the 2011 San Francisco Municipal Election. A 2x2 treatment design further integrated a varying information treatment, in order to test the effect of mobilization across different information environments. Validated voter turnout files document that the mobilization treatment produced a substantial increase in participation, nearly doubling voter turnout. A pre-election survey demonstrates initial balance across treatment groups, and a post-election survey confirms the hypothesis: subjects exposed to the mobilization treatment were more politically informed after the election than subjects in the baseline. This effect was higher when information costs were also subsidized. The results suggests that reducing costs and adding incentives to participate will not only increase voter turnout; it will also increase political information. Additionally, a comparison of the validated voting populations in each treatment group suggests that increasing voter turnout did not decrease the informedness of the active voting population.
B7-1 biomarker bites the dust

focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) and minimal change disease (MCD) are leading causes of primary nephrotic syndrome, yet their etiologies are unknown. Evidence supports the concept that a circulating “permeability factor” or toxin acts directly on the podocyte to mediate podocyte
Living The Dream In An Erudite World: Writing As If Ones Career Depends On It

In academia, the old maxim, “publish or perish” sends chills down the back of many. Junior faculty members, especially, are rightfully concerned a lack of publications may inhibit their professional growth and, more importantly, their professional survival. Thus, for many, if not most, of those who pursue an academic life, publishing is a necessary and important part of the job. This article provides advice on beginning and maximizing writing and publishing efforts from an experienced editor and reviewer.
Characterization of Chemically Modified Pore Surfaces by Small Angle Neutron Scattering

Small angle neutron scattering has been used to characterize the structure of linear hydrocarbon chains chemically grafted to the internal pore surfaces of microporous silica particles. The aim of this work has been to relate the structure of the bonded adsorbate layers in these particles to their performance in, for example, reverse-phase liquid chromatography. By filling the pore space in the modified silica with a solution that matches the scattering density of the silica framework, the scattering from the adsorbate layers is enhanced and provides a sensitive probe of the effective thickness, uniformity and degree of solvent penetration in the layers. Results are presented for both monomeric and polymeric phases of alkyl chains ranging from C8 to C30 bonded to silica particles with a mean pore size of 100 nm.
High Throughput Measurements of Polymer Fluids for Formulations

Rapid prototyping of microfluidic handling devices has gained popularity due to the ability to quickly test and modify new design features several times in one day. At the NIST Combinatorial Methods Center (NCMC), we have modified common microfluidic fabrication techniques to extend their use to organic fluids. Ultraviolet (UV) curable adhesives were used to create molded resins with increased solvent resistance. This has allowed the preparation of new types of combinatorial libraries and development of new measurement methods to complement the small sample sizes of these libraries. Most importantly, it can be used to tie together multiple stages of the formulation process, from the synthesis of polymers to the measurement of complex-fluid properties, in small and inexpensive platforms. Our first demonstrations of this technology are in the areas of emulsions and polymer blends. Measurement techniques include light and x-ray scattering and rheology. Milli-fluidic handling and measurements will increase the dimensions of parameter space that are available to accurate and systematic study of polymer solutions. These capabilities will also enable the generation of new information in the field of polymer formulations, which is presently dominated by empirical knowledge.
Role of ceramide in tumour necrosis factor-mediated apoptosis and nuclear factor-kappa B activation.

Tumour necrosis factor (TNF) is a 17 kDa protein produced primarily by macrophages. It inhibits the growth of a wide variety of tumour cells partly by inducing apoptosis (for references see [l]). T N F also induces several genes involved in viral replication, tumorigenesis, septic shock, myocardial infarction, restenosis and inflammation by activating the nuclear transcription factor nuclear factor (NF)-KB [l]. T N F transduces its cellular responses by interacting with two distinct receptors: p60, which is expressed by almost all cell types; and p80, expressed primarily by immune and endothelial cells [ 13. Most TNF-mediated signalling occurs through the p60 receptor [2]; signalling exclusively through the p80 receptor is highly restricted [3,4]. How T N F activates NF-KB or induces apoptosis is unclear, but a role for various proteases (e.g. caspases), deoxyribonucleases, reactive oxygen intermediates, protein kinase A, protein kinase C, various mitogen-activated protein kinases, protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPases), phospholipases A2, C and D, and sphingomyelinases (SMases) has been documented (for references see [l]). In this report, we will specifically evaluate the role of ceramide generated by activation of SMases in TNFinduced NF-KB activation and apoptosis. Ceramide is generated mainly in cells as a result of three distinct enzymes: neutral SMase (N-SMase; Mg+-dependent membrane-bound enzyme with a neutral pH optimum), acidic SMase (A-SMase; lysosomal enzyme with acidic pH optimum) and ceramide synthase [5-71. One
Coulomb energies in 16Ne and low-lying levels of 17Na

We have computed energies of 16 Ne levels in a core plus two-nucleon space, using known 16 C energies and existing wave functions. We have then used these energies to compute properties of the first three levels of 17 Na. Significant differences are found with results of a recent microscopic-cluster-model formulation.
Clinical engineering certification in the United States

Abstract The first question one must ask is, “Why pursue Certification as a Clinical Engineer (CCE)? What value is a CCE? How different is a CCE from other certifications?” If one were to ask a dozen clinical engineers why they became certified, the answers would be complex and varied. The Healthcare Technology Certification Commission (HTCC) and the United States and Canadian Board of Examiners for Clinical Engineering Certification (Board) at the American College of Clinical Engineering (ACCE) endorse the concept and manage the certification in clinical engineering program. The Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) awards certification credentials to healthcare technology management (HTM) professionals and others in higher education, healthcare industry, and healthcare delivery. As clinical technologies advance and healthcare delivery becomes more and more complex, certification is one way to demonstrate and showcase competencies in a specialized area. Board certification in Clinical Engineering and Healthcare Technology is highly valued and provides formal recognition of the knowledge base. This chapter provides a brief overview of the certification program in HTM and Clinical Engineering in the United States.
Evidence That a Subset of Aneurysms Less Than 7 mm Warrant Treatment

The management of unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UAs) has been a very controversial topic in neurosurgery. There is no clear consensus at present as to when a small UA should be treated and when it should be observed. The magnitude of this problem is increasing with advances in imaging, its
Application of Nanoparticles

In this chapter we discuss the applications of bionanoparticles (BNP) in biomedical and environmental fields. In the biomedical field, these nanoparticles have been investigated for antimicrobial applications, biosensing, imaging, and drug delivery. In the environmental field, nanoparticles have been investigated for applications in bioremediation of diverse contaminants, water treatment, and production of clean energy. Overall, the BNP have attracted the attention of diverse researchers because their syntheses are more environmentally friendly, produces more homogeneously distributed nanoparticles and some of them can be easily biodegradable. Although there are several studies investigating the application of BNP, these nanomaterials are still way less studied than synthetic nanoparticles, since researchers are still identifying the microbiological synthetic pathways of these BNP. It is expected that with the advancement of the understanding of BNP synthesis pathways, the application of BNP will expand to many more fields than biomedical and environmental and will be potentially applied in diverse nanotechnological industries.
Phase I study of low-dose hypomethylating agent azacitidine (5-AC) combined with the histone deacetylase inhibitor valproic acid (VPA) in patients with advanced cancers

3060 Background: By inhibiting DNA methyltransferase, 5-azacytidine (5-AC) reverses epigenetic silencing of aberrantly hyper-methylated genes restoring activity of tumor suppressor and pro-apoptoti...
The Affordable Care Act: What's Next?

The postelection efforts to repeal, replace, or modify the Affordable Care Act (ACA) suggest that the debate over healthcare coverage will remain contentious, particularly because of the high and rising cost of health care. Feasible, potentially bipartisan approaches to improving access to coverage should emphasize reforming health care to achieve higher quality at a lower cost. In the individual market, where many enrollees face limited options and rising premiums, a combination of high-risk pools, reinsurance, and risk adjustment could improve coverage options while encouraging innovations in care for the highest-risk patients. State Medicaid programs, which are increasingly important sources of coverage but are crowding out other important budget priorities that affect population health, could achieve better results through federal reforms that provide more flexibility for states alongside greater emphasis on achieving better outcomes. Accelerating payment reforms and other policy changes to encourage ...
Ultrasound and FNA in Parathyroid Disease: Fundamentals of Appearance and Evaluation of Abnormal Parathyroid Glands

Neck ultrasonography has become an integral part of most endocrine practice for the evaluation of parathyroid adenoma or enlarged parathyroid glands, prior to surgical intervention. It is also the most cost and time-effective study for the evaluation of coexistent thyroid disease in subjects who undergo parathyroid surgery. Ultrasonograms facilitate parathyroid biopsy and alcohol ablation to be performed in select patients in the office.
Fed-batch hydrolysate addition and cell separation by settling in high cell density lignocellulosic ethanol fermentations on AFEX™ corn stover in the Rapid Bioconversion with Integrated recycling Technology process

The Rapid Bioconversion with Integrated recycling Technology (RaBIT) process uses enzyme and yeast recycling to improve cellulosic ethanol production economics. The previous versions of the RaBIT process exhibited decreased xylose consumption using cell recycle for a variety of different micro-organisms. Process changes were tested in an attempt to eliminate the xylose consumption decrease. Three different RaBIT process changes were evaluated in this work including (1) shortening the fermentation time, (2) fed-batch hydrolysate addition, and (3) selective cell recycling using a settling method. Shorting the RaBIT fermentation process to 11 h and introducing fed-batch hydrolysate addition eliminated any xylose consumption decrease over ten fermentation cycles; otherwise, decreased xylose consumption was apparent by the third cell recycle event. However, partial removal of yeast cells during recycle was not economical when compared to recycling all yeast cells.
Sharing the value and impact of outreach: Taking a multifaceted approach to outreach assessment

Abstract Although outreach is a common activity in academic libraries, little has been written about strategies for assessing library outreach efforts. Assessing outreach efforts is important in order to measure the success of the outreach activity, identify areas for iterative improvement, and demonstrate the value of the outreach activity to stakeholders. This article is a case study describing the multifaceted strategies employed to assess a major outreach event, Texas A&M University Libraries annual Open House event. It details demonstrating value and programmatic improvement as the articulated goals for outreach assessment as well as the specific strategies used and the insights gleaned from each assessment strategy.
Chronic care coordination by integrating care through a team-based, population-driven approach: a case study.

Patients with chronic conditions frequently experience behavioral comorbidities to which primary care cannot easily respond. This study observed a Vermont family medicine practice with integrated medical and behavioral health services that use a structured approach to implement a chronic care management system with Lean. The practice chose to pilot a population-based approach to improve outcomes for patients with poorly controlled Type 2 diabetes using a stepped-care model with an interprofessional team including a community health nurse. This case study observed the team’s use of Lean, with which it designed and piloted a clinical algorithm composed of patient self-assessment, endorsement of behavioral goals, shared documentation of goals and plans, and follow-up. The team redesigned workflows and measured reach (patients who engaged to the end of the pilot), outcomes (HbA1c results), and process (days between HbA1c tests). The researchers evaluated practice member self-reports about the use of Lean and facilitators and barriers to move from pilot to larger scale applications. Of 20 eligible patients recruited over 3 months, 10 agreed to participate and 9 engaged fully (45%); 106 patients were controls. Relative to controls, outcomes and process measures improved but lacked significance. Practice members identified barriers that prevented implementation of all changes needed but were in agreement that the pilot produced useful outcomes. A systematized, population-based, chronic care management service is feasible in a busy primary care practice. To test at scale, practice leadership will need to allocate staffing, invest in shared documentation, and standardize workflows to streamline office practice responsibilities.
Post-transcriptional regulation of immune responses by RNA binding proteins

Cytokines are critical mediators of inflammation and host immune defense. Cytokine production is regulated at both transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. Post-transcriptional damping of inflammatory mRNAs is mediated by a set of RNA binding proteins (RBPs) interacting with cis-elements, such as AU-rich elements (ARE) and stem-loop structures. Whereas ARE-binding proteins such as tristetraprolin and a stem-loop recognizing protein, Roquin, downregulate cytokine mRNA abundance by recruiting a CCR4-NOT deadenylase complex, another stem-loop RBP, Regnase-1, acts as an endoribonuclease, directly degrading target cytokine mRNAs. These RBPs control translation-active or -inactive mRNAs in distinct intracellular locations. The presence of various RBPs regulating mRNAs in distinct locations enables elaborate control of cytokines under inflammatory conditions. Dysregulation of cytokine mRNA decay leads to pathologies such as the development of autoimmune diseases or impaired activation of immune responses. Here we review current knowledge about the post-transcriptional regulation of immune responses by RBPs and the importance of their alteration during inflammatory pathology and autoimmunity.
Shell model calculations for levels and transition rates in 204Pb and 206Pb.

Level energies and decay rates of both negative and positive parity levels of $^{206,204}\mathrm{Pb}$ have been calculated through mixed-configuration shell model calculations using the modified surface delta interaction (MSDI), the Schiffer-True central interaction, and another two-body interaction. These calculations were all carried out with a full six-orbit neutron hole space. The predicted low-lying levels with the MSDI are in excellent agreement with experiments, accounting for the energies, spins, and parities of essentially all levels below 3 MeV excitation energy except known particle-hole collective excitations in both nuclei. Almost all calculated $E2$ and $M1$ transition rates are consistent with measured branching ratios for $\ensuremath{\gamma}$-ray decay of excited levels. The comparison of the observed and calculated levels demonstrates the important role played by the neutron-hole ${i}_{\frac{13}{2}}$ configuration in the levels of $^{204}\mathrm{Pb}$ and $^{206}\mathrm{Pb}$, and interprets an apparent discrepancy over the character and energy spacings of ${0}^{+}$ levels in $^{204}\mathrm{Pb}$.
Association of biomarkers of insulin resistance and inflammation with skeletal muscle index (SMI) in stage IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

10013Background: The aim of this project was to correlate pretreatment levels of circulating biomarkers of insulin resistance and inflammation with sarcopenia in stage IV NSCLC patients receiving p...
Compression of Acoustic Event Detection Models with Low-rank Matrix Factorization and Quantization Training

In this paper, we present a compression approach based on the combination of low-rank matrix factorization and quantization training, to reduce complexity for neural network based acoustic event detection (AED) models. Our experimental results show this combined compression approach is very effective. For a three-layer long short-term memory (LSTM) based AED model, the original model size can be reduced to 1% with negligible loss of accuracy. Our approach enables the feasibility of deploying AED for resource-constraint applications.
Combating xenophobia and hate through compassionate migration: the present struggle of irregular migrants escaping fear and extreme poverty

This paper advances the need for a blueprint for a concept and practice of “compassionate migration” as a pressing response to the escalating xenophobia and hate towards migrants escaping fear and extreme poverty. Irregular migrants and refugees from certain countries are perceived by many as self-interested individuals whose aims are to exploit the social benefits of the state or destroy its core values. Although fear of migrants has long existed, particularly towards those who come from cultures that do not share the dominant values of their host communities, after 9/11, the increase in terror attacks in the Global North, and the ongoing conflicts in the Global South, the U.S., and many European states have securitized migration, including the militarization of their borders. Moreover, receiving states are criminalizing migration offenses, including the assistance of irregular migrants from a humanitarian standpoint. Although all migrants have protections under domestic and international humanitarian laws, this paper draws from cases of discourses and actions of hate towards migrants in the U.S. and Europe that inform us that under the securitization and criminalizing of migration such laws are not adequate to protect the human rights of migrants from a dangerous rise in xenophobia and nativism.
Approximating Noncategorical Teacher Education

A program is described which approximates the noncategorical approach and serves as a transition from categorical to noncategorical programs in teacher education. The essential components of this program were (a) the identification of course content that was common and unique to four methods courses, (b) the development of semi-independent modules of instruction, (c) team teaching, and (d) presentation of content in large groups followed by small group instruction. Evaluation indicated that students and faculty were generally receptive to this approach.
Integration of Palliative Care into Acute Myeloid Leukemia Care.

Abstract Objective To provide an overview of the past, present, and future of the integration of palliative care services for patients with hematologic malignancies, such as acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Data Sources Published literature as indexed in Medline, relevant guideline documents, textbooks, and clinical experience. Conclusion Patients with acute leukemias have substantial palliative care needs that often go unmet with standard oncology care. Evidence shows that the early integration of specialist palliative care into standard oncology care improves patient-centered outcomes among those with advanced solid tumors. Emerging evidence supports similar benefits among hospitalized patients with hematologic malignancies undergoing stem cell transplantation, and additional trials are underway to further test palliative care interventions in patients with AML. Implications for Nursing Practice By better understanding the palliative care needs of patients with AML and the evidence of integration with standard oncologic care, patients with leukemias may be more likely to receive early integrated palliative care.
A Tale of Two Immunodeficiencies: A Case of Multiple Myeloma Associated with Profound Immune Defect Mimicking Common Variable Immunodeficiency Syndrome.

Introduction Multiple myeloma (MM) is a clonal plasma cell disorder commonly associated with secondary immune deficiency. By contrast, common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is a primary immunodeficiency characterized by low serum levels of immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA, and/or IgM) and inability to produce specific protective antibodies in response to infections and immunizations. Besides a defective immune system and susceptibility to infections, CVID is associated with autoimmune disorders, gastrointestinal tract inflammation, granulomatous disease, and malignancies. Although MM and CVID both manifest an abnormal immune system homeostasis, the pathogenesis of the immune defect is distinctly different: Quantitative deficiency of the normal plasma cells in the former and qualitative defect in plasma cell maturation in the latter. Case presentation An unusual case of MM associated with profound immunodeficiency mimicking CVID occurred in a 51-year-old man with a history of numerous bacterial infections and low γ-globulin levels. Discussion A hypothetical connection between MM and CVID is discussed. Patients with MM who have an unusually high burden of infections and profound immune deficit persisting even after successful myeloma therapy merit recognition as a distinct cohort that warrants heightened attention from clinicians and scientists.
Is Dietary Milk Intake Associated with Cataract Extraction History in Older Adults? An Analysis from the US Population.

Background Galactose accumulation in the lens tissue is known to be cataractogenic. Whether consistent dietary intake of lactose-which consists of glucose and galactose-predisposes to senile cataract remains unclear. This study was conducted to investigate the association between a number of dietary milk intake indicators and cataract extraction history in a representative sample of older adults from the US population. Methods and Materials. This is a cross-sectional, population-based study. Participants of the United States National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2001-2008 who were ≥50 years old and provided a complete history of their usual daily dietary intake were included. Exclusion criteria were special diets, extreme daily energy intake, and missing outcome (i.e., cataract extraction history). Indicators of milk intake used were early-life intake regularity, current daily milk/total dairy intake amounts, and estimated lifelong milk exposure. Odds ratios (OR) and 99% confidence intervals (99% CI) were calculated with fitting weights to better represent the population-based estimates. Results Among the 5930 studied participants, early-life milk intake regularity was not associated with cataract extraction history in age/sex/ethnicity-adjusted and multivariable-adjusted models (p trend = 0.064 and 0.094, respectively). Current daily milk intake was associated with a slight reduction in the likelihood of cataract extraction in the age/sex/ethnicity-adjusted model (OR = 0.885 per cup equivalents, 99% CI = 0.795-0.986) and in the multivariable model (OR = 0.871 per cup equivalents, 99% CI = 0.746-0.993). However, no such association was observed between quartiles of current dietary milk intake and cataract extraction history (p trend = 0.064 and 0.094, respectively). Current daily milk intake was associated with a slight reduction in the likelihood of cataract extraction in the age/sex/ethnicity-adjusted model (OR = 0.885 per cup equivalents, 99% CI = 0.795-0.986) and in the multivariable model (OR = 0.871 per cup equivalents, 99% CI = 0.746-0.993). However, no such association was observed between quartiles of current dietary milk intake and cataract extraction history (p trend = 0.064 and 0.094, respectively). Current daily milk intake was associated with a slight reduction in the likelihood of cataract extraction in the age/sex/ethnicity-adjusted model (OR = 0.885 per cup equivalents, 99% CI = 0.795-0.986) and in the multivariable model (OR = 0.871 per cup equivalents, 99% CI = 0.746-0.993). However, no such association was observed between quartiles of current dietary milk intake and cataract extraction history (. Conclusion There appears to be no direct relationship between several indicators of dietary milk consumption and cataract extraction history in the general American population.