cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Assistive Devices Used by Home-Based Elderly Persons With Arthritis

Objective This article examines assistive device use by home-based elderly persons with arthritis. Method Sixty-six persons were interviewed for the State University of New York at Buffalo (University at Buffalo) Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center Consumer Assessment Study, which sought information on need for and current use of assistive devices. Subjects were assigned to a moderate or a severe arthritis group according to the impact of arthritis on their activities. Results Subjects in the severe arthritis group had more chronic diseases, a higher level of pain, and a lower level of independence in self-care activities than subjects in the moderate arthritis group. Similarities between the groups included relatively poor health, high rate of medication use, depression, use of a high number of assistive devices (about 10 per person), and an expressed need for additional devices, such as reachers, magnifiers, grab bars, jar openers, and hearing aids. Generally, there was a high rate of satisfaction with the assistive devices used. Most subjects missed being able to participate in at least one activity; most of these activities were active and many related to leisure time. Conclusion Findings also revealed that subjects had inadequate information on assistive devices, which suggests the importance of more occupational therapy involvement with elderly persons in selecting devices.
A GaAs four-quadrant analog multiplier circuit

A design for a four-quadrant analog multiplier is presented using GaAs MESFETs. The fabricated circuit has a -3 dB bandwidth of 410 MHz with 50- Omega /6.5-pF output loading, nonlinearity of less than 1%, and static power dissipation of 86.1 mW with V/sub dd/=3 V and V/sub ss/=-2 V. Simulations indicate the circuit will operate at frequencies over 2.0 GHz with on-chip loads of 0.15 pF. >
Rank-based estimation in the ℓ1-regularized partly linear model for censored outcomes with application to integrated analyses of clinical predictors and gene expression data

SUMMARY We consider estimation and variable selection in the partial linear model for censored data. The partial linear model for censored data is a direct extension of the accelerated failure time model, the latter of which is a very important alternative model to the proportional hazards model. We extend rank-based lasso-type estimators to a model that may contain nonlinear effects. Variable selection in such partial linear model has direct application to high-dimensional survival analyses that attempt to adjust for clinical predictors. In the microarray setting, previous methods can adjust for other clinical predictors by assuming that clinical and gene expression data enter the model linearly in the same fashion. Here, we select important variables after adjusting for prognostic clinical variables but the clinical effects are assumed nonlinear. Our estimator is based on stratification and can be extended naturally to account for multiple nonlinear effects. We illustrate the utility of our method through simulation studies and application to the Wisconsin prognostic breast cancer data set.
A multiple model adaptive control strategy for DMC

This paper details and demonstrates a multiple model adaptive strategy for dynamic matrix control (DMC). The novelty of the strategy lies in several subtle but important details. One contribution is that the method combines the output of multiple linear DMC controllers, each with their own step response model describing process dynamics at a specific level of operation. The final output forwarded to the controller is an interpolation of the individual controller outputs weighted based on the current value of the measured process variable. Another contribution is that the approach does not introduce additional computational complexity, but rather, relies on traditional DMC design methods. This makes the work immediately accessible to industrial practitioners. Finally, the importance and value of previously published tuning rules are established in their role of facilitating adaptive DMC. The application and effectiveness of the adaptive DMC strategy is demonstrated a multiple loop simulation.
Laboratory study of polarized microwave scattering at grazing incidence

Laboratory measurements of Ku-band scattering at grazing incidence, as well as the fine space-time structure of the short wind waves in the Scripps Institution of Oceanography and Delft Hydraulics Laboratory wind-wave channels are presented. This study was stimulated by the need to verify the processes which significantly contribute to scattering at grazing incidence. A dual polarized (VV, HH) coherent pulsed Ku-band scatterometer with good temporal resolution (3 ns) was used to obtain simultaneous Doppler spectra and the absolute cross-section of scattered signals for grazing angles from 6-25 degrees and winds in the range 2-12 m/s. A scanning-laser slope meter measuring capillary waves from measurements of the scattered signal showed that the Doppler spectra has a bimodal structure. While the low-frequency part of the spectrum corresponds to Bragg scattering from free capillary waves, the high-frequency part is clearly associated with scattering from bound capillary waves on the crests of the longer wind waves. This type of scattering is dominant for the upwind direction (especially for HH) and becomes larger as the wind and fetch increase.
Accelerated publication 16.4% total‐area conversion efficiency thin‐film polycrystalline MgF2/ZnO/CdS/Cu(In,Ga)Se2/Mo solar cell

This communication reports an MgF2/ZnO/CdS/Cu(In,Ga)Se2/Mo/glass polycrystalline solar cell with a confirmed total-area conversion efficiency of 16.4%. the thin-film Cu(In,Ga)Se2 absorber was fabricated by computer-controlled physical vapor deposition (PVD) from the elemental sources. the resulting absorber has a Gal/In compositional grading that we refer to as a notch. Capacitance-voltage (C-V) measurements also reveal a graded doping profile in the region near the electronic p-n junction. the enhanced device performance is characterized by an open-circuit voltage (Voc) of 660 mV and a particularly high fill factor (FF) of 78.7%.
Performance and reliability of MEMS coatings in liquids

Reliability of MEMS in liquids is an important concern for MEMS operating in harsh environments in petrochemical, biomedical, and defense applications. Our previous studies have demonstrated reliability concerns for silicon microcantilevers in liquid environments such as saline. In this paper, the effect of coatings on reliability of MEMS in liquids, such as DI water and saline, is compared to that in air. Silicon microcantilevers coated with titanium (Ti) and SU-8 were vibrated in liquids for 108-109 cycles. The resonant frequency of the microcantilevers was periodically monitored to evaluate performance. Reliability of microcantilevers coated with Ti and SU-8 was compromised as indicated by a gradual decrease in resonant frequency in liquids. These changes in resonant frequency were attributed to factors such as stress-corrosion cracking, water absorption, and intrinsic stresses.
The First Century of Disability Portrayal in Film An Analysis of the Literature

Despite high visibility and its potential influence on public attitudes, disability portrayal in film has been only an occasional topic of scholarly inquiry. This paper provides the first interdisciplinary review of the literature by integrating resources from film history, the social sciences, rehabilitation, mass communication, psychology, psychiatry, and education. Several topical areas are evaluated, including history, quantitative investigations, the quality of cinematic representations of disability, and the politics of film. Psychiatric disorders were found to be the most frequently depicted, with many stereotypic depictions of a wide range of disabilities identified. Directions for future research, with recommendations for quantitative investigations and a call for additional interdisciplinary research, are discussed.
FAVOSAMACERIA COOPERI NEW GROUP AND FORM: A WIDELY DISPERSED, TIME-RESTRICTED THROMBOLITE

The distinctive, branched thrombolite, Favosamaceria cooperi new group and form, is found widely in the Great Basin, USA, where it is restricted to the Late Cambrian Saukia trilobite Zone. This thrombolite is distinguished by a hedgerow, mazelike organization of ridges similar to garden walls (maceriae) in plan view, branching of ridges into daughter ridges and columns, the polymorphic nature of dark, 1–4 mm mesoclots, and the relative consistency of maceria width (approximately 1 cm). As a group, Favosamaceria is found elsewhere in Upper Cambrian strata of the Argentine Precordillera, Appalachians, and Upper Mississippi Valley, as well as in Lower Ordovician deposits of the Canadian Arctic and Newfoundland. The distribution of the group around Laurentia illustrates the use of microbialites in biogeographic studies.
Volume and Grain Boundary Diffusion in Ll 2 Alloys with Special Reference to Ni 3 Al Compounds

Experiment and theory of diffusion in Li(2) alloys are briefly reviewed.* Current work on volume and grain boundary diffusion in Ni(3)Al alloys are presented and discussed.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder: Historical Aspects

Dysmorphophobia, although not formally recognized as of recent, has a long history in psychiatry, dating back to the nineteenth century when Enrico Morselli first coined the term. It is derived from the Greek word dysmorphia, meaning ugliness. Other notable figures who contributed in defining and bringing recognition to this disorder include Pierre Janet, Emil Kraepelin, and Sigmund Freud. Although dysmorphophobia is the common name used for nearly a century, it is actually a misnomer as this disorder is not a true phobic condition. Therefore, recently it was renamed to what is now known as body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), with its publication in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-III-R. Continued movement towards increasing public awareness and medical understanding is critical in reducing stigma and other barriers to treatment in this potentially devastating condition.
A phase I study of antisense Bcl-2 oligonucleotide (G3139) in combination with carboplatin (C) and paclitaxel (T) in patients with advanced solid tumors

13006 Background: G3139 is an 18-mer oligonucleotide that targets the mRNA of Bcl-2, a protein that inhibits apoptosis conferring treatment resistance, and is synergistic with taxanes in studies us...
Risk Factors for Dysplasia in Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis in an Adult and Pediatric Population.

Aim:Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) is classically described as a benign neoplasm of the larynx caused by the low-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) viral subtypes. Nevertheless, transforma...
Design and Verification of an Adaptive Control Algorithm for a Redundantly Actuated Omnidirectional Mobile Platform

This paper discusses the design and control of a new ball-wheel drive mechanism for a robust omnidirectional wheeled mobile platform. This platform, integrated with a manipulator, is designed for use in highway maintenance and construction, which is a generally unstructured and congested environment. The proposed ball wheel mechanism can move in all directions on the plane, instantaneously and isotropically. For accurate motion with parametric uncertainty in the dynamic model, an adaptive controller is applied to the trajectory tracking control of the single ball wheel platform. The redundant drive system of the ball wheel mechanism changes its configuration according to the heading direction by changing the contact pressure between the drive wheel and the sphere. A weighted torque optimization method is used for the resolution of redundancy and for smooth reconfiguration. The experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Little Women: Girls in Adult Prison

Despite the growing trend of waiving youth to adult/criminal court, little is known about how convicted youth experience adult prison. To date, no research has been published about girls in adult prisons. In this study, intensive interviews were conducted with 22 girls serving time in a women's prison in the Midwest, as well as four staff working in the girls ' unit. The findings describe the complex lives of girls housed in an adult women's prison, in particular, their difficulties in gaining access to adequate schooling, work training, counseling, and health care. We also address the girls' contact with adult women prisoners, as well as their relationships with staff at the prison. Beyond improving their conditions of confinement, our research highlights the need to consider the appropriateness of placing girls in adult institutions.
Effect of Mo/HZSM-5 Catalyst Supports on Non-oxidative Aromatization of Methane

The catalytic performance of the extruded nano-Mo/HZSM-5 samples with Al2O3 and SiO2 as supports for non-oxidative aromatization of methane was studied. The nano-Mo/HZSM-5 catalyst samples were characterized by pyridine FT-IR and NH3-TPD methods. The pyridine FT-IR spectra indicated that with the increase of Al2O3 the ratio of Brnsted acid sites to Lewis acid sites on the catalyst samples decreased,and thus the methane conversion decreased and the coke formation increased. The amount of Brnsted acid increased with increasing amount of SiO2,which resulted in an increase in methane conversion and a decrease in coke deposition.
Cloning and expression of a prostaglandin E receptor EP3 subtype from human erythroleukaemia cells

Prostaglandins inhibit platelet activation by stimulating intracellular cyclic AMP formation. We have postulated that intracellular cyclic AMP levels in platelets are buffered by a distinct prostaglandin receptor that mediates inhibition of cyclic AMP formation. In order to provide evidence for the model, we have cloned the cDNA coding for a prostaglandin receptor EP3 subtype, which is coupled to inhibition of adenylate cyclase, from the megakaryocytic cell line human erythroleukaemia (HEL) cells. A PCR-generated hybridization probe, produced using primers based on the sequence of the mouse prostaglandin EP3 receptor published by Sugimoto, Namba, Honda, Hayashi, Negishi, Ichikawa and Narumiya [(1992) J. Biol. Chem. 267, 6463-6466], was used to screen a lambda gt11 HEL cell cDNA library. The composite full-length cDNA clone HEP3, generated from the two partial clones pHEP3-7 and pHEP3-5, is 1.6 kb long with an open reading frame coding for 390 amino acids. This clone is 83% identical to the alpha subtype of the mouse EP3 receptor. The full-length construct was transfected into COS-1 cells. The cloned receptor exhibited the properties of a prostaglandin EP3 subtype, inhibiting forskolin-stimulated cyclic AMP formation in response to prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and binding PGE2 with high specificity and a Kd of 3.2 nM. Radiolabelled PGE2 could be displaced by prostaglandins in the order PGE2 = PGE1 > iloprost = PGD2. Northern blot analysis revealed that the receptor is also present in human kidney.
Glucocorticoids upregulate tropoelastin expression during late stages of fetal lung development

The production of elastin, an essential extracellular matrix protein of terminal airway interstitium, occurs mostly during early development. Because glucocorticoids influence airway maturation, we studied the effect of dexamethasone (Dex) on tropoelastin expression during fetal lung development. Timed-pregnant rats were treated with Dex (1 mg/kg daily), and fetal lungs were collected 3 days later at 17, 19, and 21 days of gestation. Dex treatment resulted in about a threefold increase in tropoelastin mRNA levels at 19 days concomitant with accelerated airway development. By in situ hybridization, Dex treatment increased the number of tropoelastin-expressing cells and the level of tropoelastin mRNA per cell. In organ culture, Dex increased lung tropoelastin expression and augmented cortisol stimulation of tropoelastin expression. In fetal pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells, 10(-8) M Dex upregulated tropoelastin mRNA expression and increased tropoelastin promoter-chloramphenicol acetyl transferase activity in transient transfections. These data indicate that pharmacologically administered glucocorticoids transcriptionally upregulate fetal lung tropoelastin expression and suggest that steroid hormones may be important regulators of elastin production in vivo.
Board of directors and industry determinants of corporate philanthropy

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to extend the current research on corporate philanthropy and organizational outcomes by empirically exploring two specific types of antecedents: board of director composition and industry membership. Design/methodology/approach – A theoretical framework was developed based on the resource dependence and stakeholder theories which suggest that the extent that firms build relationship with certain stakeholders is closely tied to the personal and social background of board members, in turn influencing the allocation of resources to corporate philanthropy. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis as well as analysis of variance with post hoc comparisons was conducted using multi-year data philanthropic data from 104 US corporations. Findings – The results provided empirical support for a positive relationship between the number of female board directors and the level of corporate philanthropy. In addition, the results showed significant inter-industry variations in the ...
The Restorative and Transformative Power of the Arts in Conflict Resolution

The discipline of the arts has much to contribute to the field of conflict resolution. This article broadly investigates how artistic engagement facilitates transformative learning and the development of skills and capacities for more constructive engagement with conflict. Many scholar practitioners have acknowledged the widespread use of arts-based approaches to peacebuilding and conflict resolution. While it is important to know what forms of arts-based approaches are utilized today, more empirical work is needed to explain and evaluate how engagement with the arts could foster cooperative relationships and more constructive engagement with conflict even in contexts of intractable conflict. An initial review of the literature, alongside examples of practice and personal reflections, highlights the restorative and transformative power of the arts to foster new perspectives, enhanced capacities for more constructive engagement with conflict, and ultimately, cooperative relationships.
The Dutch in Muscovy

The third and overwhelmingly longest part of Reysen encompasses the tale of Jan Struys’s years in Russia and Iran between September 1668 and October 1673. Other sources confirm how the sailmaker arrived in Russia in the autumn of 1668 enticed by a golden opportunity, joining a party of his compatriots who, for extremely high wages, were to sail a ship, called the Oryol (Eagle), for the Muscovite Tsar Aleksei Mikhailovich (r.1645–76). The choice for a Dutch team to supervise the ship’s construction and to man the vessel was the consequence of the extraordinary presence of Dutch merchants, entrepreneurs, and artisans in Russia in the 1600s. Their role in modernizing Muscovy will be explored in this chapter. The Oryol’s construction on behalf of the tsar was not only an early example of the transfer of modern technology from the developed Republic to a developing Muscovy, but its main organizer, Jan van Sweeden (d. 1668), appears the equivalent of a modern-day entrepreneur capitalizing on the economic possibilities offered by a Third-World country.1
Assessing the specific energy consumption and physical properties of comminuted Douglas-fir chips for bioconversion

Abstract Size reduction homogenizes the bulk biomass and facilitates downstream feedstock handling, transportation, and storage. Effects of feeding rate, mill-type (hammer and knife mill), screen size, and moisture content on comminution energy consumption of commercial Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) pulp chips were quantified. The resulting particles were characterized by geometric mean diameter, size distribution, aspect ratio and bulk density. We also employed scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to visualize the dominant fracture surface features. A linear regression was used to describe the relationship between specific energy consumption (SEC) and comminution ratio, which can be used for estimating SEC of various particle sizes of feedstock. Results demonstrated that with a screen size of 3.18 mm, the hammer mill consumed 141 kJ kg−1, while the knife mill consumed 345 kJ kg−1. Selecting the feeding rate, which allows the machine reach its rated power, can result in lowest total SEC. SEC also increased substantially with an increase in moisture content from 11% to 17% (fraction in total mass basis). Analysis of the particle morphology revealed that the dominant fracture mechanism was across lumen for hammer milling and along middle lamella for knife milling.
Plastic stents or covered self-expandable metal stents for benign biliary strictures: same song, different verse?

Biliary self-expandable metal stents (SEMS) were originally developed to overcome the patency issues of fixed diameter, rigid plastic stents.
Maximizing Appropriate Responses Returned by a Conversational Agent through the Use of a Genetic Algorithm for Feature Selection

We present an approach to creating conversational agents that are capable of returning appropriate responses to natural language input. The approach described consists of a genetic algorithm used as a feature selection technique to evolve a subset of random features towards a set of features that are more relevant to the language used in the domain; therefore improving the conversational agent's ability to return appropriate responses. The results show that over multiple iterations of the evolutionary process the genetic algorithm was able to filter out unfit features. After the evolutionary process the features that were found to be relevant were tested on an unseen test set and the algorithm achieved an accuracy of 72.678%
Metaphor and Tone in David Wagoner's AT THE DOOR

Like many of David Wagoner's poems, “At the Door” is deceptively straightforward.1 It lucidly sets forth eight ways by which an actor could make his or her exit via a stage door. But many uncertain...
Underreported use of palliative care and patient-reported outcome measures to address reduced quality of life in patients with calciphylaxis: a systematic review

Calciphylaxis is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Palliative care (PC) is a subspecialty that treats the pain and stress of serious illness. To assess whether the role of quality of life (QoL) indices, patient-reported outcome measures and PC have been studied in patients with calciphylaxis, we performed a systematic literature review. Several databases were searched from inception to October 2016 according to modified Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses criteria. We searched for papers on calciphylaxis that mentioned the symptoms and supportive needs of patients, QoL or outcome measures to report symptom severity, and the involvement of PC. Twelve papers met the inclusion criteria. Reported patient symptoms included pain, skin lesion resolution and pruritus, with the first being the most frequently reported. Four papers measured pain using a previously verified patient-reported outcome measure, including the Visual Analogue Scale. One paper used a verified QoL measure, the Dermatology Quality of Life Index. No tool was used consistently. Eight papers reported the use of hospice care or PC in the treatment of calciphylaxis. No outcome measure was used to prompt PC involvement. Overall, QoL indices, patient-reported outcome measures and PC are underreported in the treatment of calciphylaxis. PC may be a resource to assist in symptom management and adaptive coping strategies for patients from the onset of disease.
21 – The future of brewing

Publisher Summary Several gross factors impact upon brewing, its future and the demands for research within it. Of natural pre-eminent significance is population: the size of the market. The rate of population growth has exceeded the growth in total beer volumes, quite simply because much of the growth has occurred in countries without the culture or the currency to buy beer. However, the potential market will nevertheless grow significantly, particularly as increased disposable income and leisure time in many cultures might be envisioned. There will be a net ageing of the population over the coming quarter of a century. The percentage of people aged below 50 will decline, while the proportion older than this will increase substantially. Product concepts should be targeted not only at the younger element. It is incumbent upon brewers to ensure that their technical programs are in place to satisfy the potential growth—the establishment of brewing facilities in suitable locations, knowledge of how to produce a stable product, ability to handle a diversity of raw material qualities, use of robust control mechanisms and so on. This presupposes that traditional raw materials will continue to be available. Political decisions will be of prime significance. Politicians will continue to bear major influence through the levy of taxes and the driving of legislation, such as what ingredients may or may not be employed in brewing and how packages must be labeled. Technology will not be denied. Current alarm about and rebellion against gene technology will not prevent its future application, provided the benefits are apparent to the consumer and any risks are sensibly eliminated. Brewing will continue to respond to technological advances in the general domain—sensor technology, communications, materials of fabrication and so on.
Fourth Generation NGOs: Communication Strategies in Social Campaigning and Resource Mobilization

ABSTRACTNongovernmental organizations (NGOs) have moved from small-scale community relief and services to complex advocacy missions at the international level. NGOs that operate in advocacy and social movement are addressed as fourth generation NGOs. Drawing on the literature of communication strategies in the nonprofit sector, the author investigates how fourth generation NGOs formulate and execute their communication strategies to achieve organizational goals. The author reports an in-depth case study of a single NGO. The results identify recurring themes in constructing and negotiating communication strategies in NGO campaigns for social support and resource mobilization. Organizational structures, public perceptions, and strategic approaches are examined to provide theoretical and practical implications related to understanding NGOs’ strategic communications choices.
Epigenetic response of imprinted domains during carcinogenesis

Imprinted domains have been identified as targets for aberrant DNA methylation during carcinogenesis, but it remains unclear when these epigenetic alterations occur and how they contribute to tumor progression. Epigenetic instability at key cis-regulatory elements within imprinted domains can concomitantly activate proto-oncogenes and turn off tumor suppressor genes. Thus, to further characterize the epigenetic response of imprinted domains during carcinogenesis, we compared the stability of DNA methylation at a variety of cis-regulatory elements within imprinted domains in two fundamentally different mouse tumors, benign and malignant, induced by the KrasG12D mutation. We report that imprinted domains remain stable in benign processes but are highly susceptible to epigenetic alterations in infiltrative lesions. The preservation of DNA methylation within imprinted domains in benign tumors throughout their duration suggests that imprinted genes are not involved with the initiation of carcinogenesis or the growth of tumors. However, the frequent detection of DNA methylation changes at imprinting control regions in infiltrative lesions suggest that imprinted genes are associated with tumor cells gaining the ability to defy tissue boundaries. Overall, this study demonstrates that imprinted domains are targeted for DNA hypermethylation when benign tumor cells transition to malignant. Thus, monitoring DNA methylation within imprinted domains may be useful in evaluating the progression of neoplasms.
Our own religion in ancient Persia: Dadabhai Naoroji and Orientalist scholarship on Zoroastrianism

ABSTRACTDadabhai Naoroji (1825–1917) is today best known as an economic thinker and an early leader in the Indian nationalist movement. Between the 1860s and 1890s, however, he was also recognized as a scholar of Zoroastrianism, sharing his ideas on Parsi religious reform and ‘authentic’ Zoroastrian belief and practice. Aside from corresponding with some of the leading European Orientalists of his day, Naoroji authored papers on Parsi religious belief and religious reform that were widely distributed and cited in Europe and North America. Over time, he began to function as an interlocutor between European Orientalists and the Parsis in India, disseminating European scholarship amongst his co-religionists while also facilitating scholars’ patronage of the wealthy Parsi community. Naoroji’s correspondence with the Oxford philologist Lawrence H. Mills, in particular, demonstrates this dynamic at work. These activities point to the oftentimes complex and collaborative relationships that existed between non-Eu...
Systematic Screening for Challenging Behaviors in Tiered Support Systems

In this chapter, we describe the logic and procedures for conducting universal screening for antisocial behavior within a three-tiered system of support. First, we present the purpose and rationale for adopting and implementing universal screening, describing how screening aligns with federal legislation and best practice. Second, we introduce several universal publicly and commercially available screening tools and systems for detecting students in need of more intensive and targeted interventions and supports. Third, we describe model procedures and considerations for installing universal screening with integrity, with the aim of increasing the reliability and validity of the process. Finally, we offer a hypothetical illustration of how to conduct systematic screening for behavior challenges as part of regular school practices effectively and efficiently. Keywords: aggression; antisocial behavior; behavior interventions and supports; primary; school; screening; secondary tertiary prevention; tiered system; violence
Antiviral CD8 T cells induce Zika-virus-associated paralysis in mice.

Zika virus (ZIKV) is an emerging, mosquito-borne RNA virus. The rapid spread of ZIKV within the Americas has unveiled microcephaly 1 and Guillain-Barre syndrome2,3 as ZIKV-associated neurological complications. Recent reports have also indicated other neurological manifestations to be associated with ZIKV, including myelitis 4 , meningoencephalitis 5 and fatal encephalitis 6 . Here, we investigate the neuropathogenesis of ZIKV infection in type I interferon receptor IFNAR knockout (Ifnar1 -/- ) mice, an infection model that exhibits high viral burden within the central nervous system. We show that systemic spread of ZIKV from the site of infection to the brain requires Ifnar1 deficiency in the haematopoietic compartment. However, spread of ZIKV within the central nervous system is supported by Ifnar1-deficient non-haematopoietic cells. Within this context, ZIKV infection of astrocytes results in breakdown of the blood-brain barrier and a large influx of CD8+ effector T cells. We also find that antiviral activity of CD8+ T cells within the brain markedly limits ZIKV infection of neurons, but, as a consequence, instigates ZIKV-associated paralysis. Taken together, our study uncovers mechanisms underlying ZIKV neuropathogenesis within a susceptible mouse model and suggests blood-brain barrier breakdown and T-cell-mediated neuropathology as potential underpinnings of ZIKV-associated neurological complications in humans.
The atopic march: Critical evidence and clinical relevance

The atopic march refers to the natural history of allergic diseases as they develop over the course of infancy and childhood. Introduced by the American allergists A.F. Coca and R.A. Cooke in 1923, the term “atopy” became closely associated with the immunoglobulin (Ig) E molecule after its identification as the carrier of hypersensitivity.1 However, in the context of the atopic march, it is important to note that IgE is a pathophysiologic mediator of some, but not all, “atopic” diseases. As such, it is better to consider the atopic march as a progression of allergic conditions that have common genetic and environmental predisposing factors, share the immunologic feature of one or more allergen-specific T helper type 2 (TH2) responses, and are characterized by a “type 2” effector phase that can include generation of specific IgE, activation of granulocytes, and other innate features, such as mucous production and edema. Importantly, the presence of one allergic condition increases the risk for development of others, resulting in the additive feature of the atopic march. Classically, the atopic march begins with atopic dermatitis (AD), and progresses to IgE-mediated food allergy (FA), asthma, and allergic rhinitis (AR) (Figure 1).2 Each of these are conditions carry a complex pathophysiology involving multiple facets of the immune system. For example, AD was once considered a manifestation of atopy itself, but is now thought to result from a combination of primary skin defect(s) and underlying genetic or environmental propensity to develop type 2 inflammation. While non-type 2 inflammation likely contributes to AD pathophysiology, for the purposes of this review we will focus on the role of type 2 inflammation, as it is the central tenet of the atopic march. Due to the type 2 inflammation associated with AD lesions, AD also represents an important route of allergen exposure by which systemic TH2 responses are initiated. Once an individual has commenced on the atopic march, it is difficult to halt the progression. Here, we start with a clinical vignette and then review the epidemiologic and translational evidence supporting the concept of the atopic march. We briefly review the immunologic mechanisms that are thought to underlie the atopic march, and discuss some of the clinical interventions aimed at preventing or intervening upon the atopic march. Open in a separate window Figure 1 Age at diagnosis of common allergic conditions.
Cardiac CT for CAD. Do we still need angiography

Recent technological advances have led to a substantial increase in image quality in multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT). Over the last few years, there has been significant interest and controversy about the clinical application of CT angiography for the evaluation of the coronary anatomy in patients with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD). Unlike invasive coronary angiography, CT coronary angiography provides both visualization of the lumen and the coronary vessel wall. Calcified plaques can be detected without contrast administration and easily quantified. MDCT has largely replaced electron beam computerized tomography for calcium scoring. Growing evidence suggests that measurement of coronary calcium may be particularly valuable in therapy decisions for asymptomatic patients with an intermediate risk of coronary events. Recent studies have also shown an association between non-calcified coronary plaques and acute coronary syndromes in patients with stable angina. Contrast-enhanced CT coronary angiography provides a non-invasive alternative to intravascular ultrasound to evaluate coronary plaque morphology and severity. Contrast-enhanced CT has been extensively validated for the detection of coronary artery stenosis in symptomatic patients with known or suspected CAD. The number of non-evaluable cases has been reduced below 10% with the newest generation scanners. Although there is considerable enthusiasm, many doubts remain about the appropriate clinical indications of CT coronary angiography, even though most experts believe that the high negative predictive value of CT coronary angiography makes this test ideal for establishing or excluding coronary artery disease in patients with low-intermediate probability.
Proficiency in Technical English: Lessons from the Bridge

“Dear Naomi,” the note began, “What IS a bridge?” We had pored over maps of the area a fortnight before, trying to find a way to get to Newark from Washington, D.C. without crossing a bridge, and a week later I had called to report that when the Havre de Grâce exit had appeared, I had only too gleefully fled from the jammed Interstate and crossed the bridge before I knew I had come to it, not even using the left lane, which this time around was reserved for drivers with decals. And now, another week and four hours over icy Pennsylvania roads later, I was beginning to smile at the warnings preceding these things that distinguished themselves only by railings approximately as high as my slush-spattered Escort. “But,” the note went on, “the Catawissa did give me pause!”
The Langevin Model and Diffusion

The previous Lecture presented the orthodox treatment of the Langevin Model. The model leads to Langevin’s equation of motion for a Brownian particle. The random displacements of a Brownian particle were shown to satisfy the Central Limit Theorem, and therefore have a Gaussian probability distribution. Our final conclusion was that the mean-square displacement diffusion coefficient and the Fick’s Law diffusion coefficient of are equal, so both satisfy
Aspects of desertification in Prosopis dunelands of southern New Mexico, U.S.A.

Mesquite shrubs in long-established plots registered increases in numbers and cover for most observation periods, in spite of drought, herbicide treatment and protection from grazing. The few decreases noted seem to be accounted for by drought and herbicide. Changes in the biotic and physical environment are incorporated into a model that shows their respective roles in effecting the conversion from grass- to shrub-dominated ecosystems.
Straight streets in a curvaceous crescent: colonial urban planning and its impact on modern New Orleans

New Orleans is justly famous for its vast inventory of historical architecture, representing scores of stylistic influences dating to the French and Spanish colonial eras. Less appreciated is the f...
Proceedings of the 5th International Workshop on Mobile Entity Localization and Tracking in GPS-less Environments

After a decade of research and development for GPS-less localization and tracking, there has been significant progress in location-awareness and location-based services around the world. Almost all cell phone platforms, Android, iPhone and Windows phones, have localization and tracking facilities. In addition, special hardware and infrastructure (e.g., RFID, UWB and BLE or sensor tags) have been developed and deployed for tracking people and merchandise. The advances in cameras and computer vision make it possible for cheap simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM). However, there are still many challenging problems to be solved, such as accuracy, power management, effective sensor fusion with increasingly powerful embedded computation and resourceful parallel computing backend, learning, transmitting and storing individual trajectories and spatial environment representation, labor-less environmental survey or infrastructure establishment for location-awareness, crowd computing or collective intelligence for map creations, and big data analytics of real-time and historical semantic locations that helps improving efficiency for both consumers and businesses.
Troublemaker or Problem-Solver? Perceptions of Organizational Dissenters

This study sought to explore potential differences in organizational dissent seen as troublemaking and dissent seen as problem-solving. Participants completed open-ended items that measured percept...
A Study of Golf-O-Tron Utilization as a Teaching Aid in Relation to Improvement and Transfer

Abstract The effectiveness of Golf-O-Tron as a teaching aid as compared to the effectiveness of the conventional practice range method in relation to improvement in skill and possible transfer effect was investigated, 85 subjects of freshman college classification formed four groups. Only the 7-iron was used in the instruction and practice sessions which ran for two sessions each week for four weeks. Tests of golf skill in the use of the 7-iron (use to test improvement) and the 4-iron (used to test transfer effect) were administered to obtain pretreatment and posttreatment scores. The findings in this study would appear to warrant the conclusions that (a) subjects in both methods showed significant improvement in 7-iron skill but differences in improvement through the use of one method are not significantly greater (P = .05) than through the use of the other method; (b) the improvement of male subjects is not significantly greater than that of female subjects, or vice versa; rather, differences that exist...
Evaluating the integrity of forested riparian buffers over a large area using LiDAR data and Google Earth Engine

Spatial and temporal changes in land cover have direct impacts on the hydrological cycle and stream quality. Techniques for accurately and efficiently mapping these changes are evolving quickly, and it is important to evaluate how useful these techniques are to address the environmental impact of land cover on riparian buffer areas. The objectives of this study were to: (1) determine the classes and distribution of land cover in the riparian areas of streams; (2) examine the discrepancies within the existing land cover data from National Land Cover Database (NLCD) using high-resolution imagery of the National Agriculture Imagery Program (NAIP) and a LiDAR canopy height model; and (3) develop a technique using LiDAR data to help characterize riparian buffers over large spatial extents. One-meter canopy height models were constructed in a high-throughput computing environment. The machine learning algorithm Support Vector Machine (SVM) was trained to perform supervised land cover classification at a 1-m resolution on the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform using NAIP imagery and LiDAR-derived canopy height models. This integrated approach to land cover classification provided a substantial improvement in the resolution and accuracy of classifications with F1 Score of each land cover classification ranging from 64.88 to 95.32%. The resulting 1-m land cover map is a highly detailed representation of land cover in the study area. Forests (evergreen and deciduous) and wetlands are by far the dominant land cover classes in riparian zones of the Lower Savannah River Basin, followed by cultivated crops and pasture/hay. Stress from urbanization in the riparian zones appears to be localized. This study demonstrates a method to create accurate high-resolution riparian buffer maps which can be used to improve water management and provide future prospects for improving buffer zones monitoring to assess stream health.
A 1-GS/s 8-Bit 12.01-fJ/conv.-step Two-Step SAR ADC in 28-nm FDSOI Technology

This letter presents a partially interleaved 1-GS/s 8-bit two-step SAR ADC for low-power operations. A fast noise-reduction technique is proposed to increase the power efficiency without significant degradation of the conversion rate. A modified StrongARM latch is adopted to further reduce the comparator noise. A calibration procedure runs in the background to address the nonuniform comparator offsets and the interstage gain error. Fabricated in a 28-nm FDSOI process, the prototype ADC achieves an SNDR of 46.65 dB at Nyquist with a power consumption of 2.1 mW, leading into a Walden FOM of 12.01 fJ/conv.-step.
Power Quality Optimization of Post-Fault Reconfigured Multi-Level Inverter

This paper investigates the effect of impact factors (IFs) to harmonic content of an electric machine drive circuit, post-fault reconfigured multilevel inverters (MLIs) by using an accurate mathematical model, and impact of reconfiguration methods on THD. Due to the difficulty of analyzing harmonic content of MLIs mathematically, software tools are typically used to simply calculate the value of THD as metric. In this paper, an accurate mathematical model including both low- and high-frequency contents of harmonics in MLIs is utilized to derive the general expression of their output voltage THD. The effect of IFs on harmonic content are analyzed based on the general expression. Simulations and experiments are performed to validate the proposed mathematical model. The impacts of the reconfiguration methods on THD are analyzed. The impact of THD and other essential metrics on power quality are analyzed, and an minimal degradation of power quality caused by reconfiguration methods is proposed.
Predictors of surgical site infection after open lower extremity revascularization

Objectives Surgical site infection (SSI) after open surgery for lower extremity revascularization is a serious complication that may lead to graft infection, prolonged hospitalization, and increased cost. Rates of SSI after revascularization vary widely, with most studies reported from single institutions. The objective of this study was to describe the rate and predictors of SSI after surgery for arterial occlusive disease using national data, and to identify any association between SSI and length of hospital stay, reoperation, graft loss, and mortality. Methods Patients who underwent lower extremity arterial bypass or thromboendarterectomy from 2005-2008 were identified from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) participant use files. Multivariate logistic regression identified predictors of SSI. Odds ratios were adjusted for patient demographics, comorbidities, preoperative laboratory values, and operative factors. The association between SSI and other 30-day outcomes such as mortality and graft failure was determined. Results Of 12,330 patients who underwent revascularization, 1367 (11.1%) were diagnosed with an SSI within 30 days. Multivariate predictors of SSI included female gender (odds ratio [OR], 1.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3-1.6), obesity (OR, 2.1; 95% CI, 1.8-2.4), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (OR, 1.2; 95% CI, 1.0-1.5), dialysis (OR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.1-2.1), preoperative hyponatremia (OR, 1.2; 95% CI, 1.0-1.4), and length of operation >4 hours (OR, 1.4; 95% CI, 1.2-1.6). SSI was associated with prolonged (>10 days) hospital stay (OR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.4-2.1) and higher rates of 30-day graft loss (OR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.7-3.1) and reoperation (OR, 3.7; 95% CI, 3.1-4.6). SSI was not associated with increased 30-day mortality. Conclusion SSI is a common complication after open revascularization and is associated with a more than twofold increased risk of early graft loss and reoperation. Several patient and operation-related risk factors that predict postoperative SSI were identified, suggesting that targeted improvements in perioperative care may decrease complications and improve outcomes in this patient population.