cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Impact of Kidney Function on Effects of the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (Dash) Diet

Objectives: Although the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet lowers blood pressure in adults with hypertension, how kidney function impacts this effect is not known. We evaluated whether Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) modifies the effect of the DASH diet on blood pressure, markers of mineral metabolism, and markers of kidney function. Methods: Secondary analysis of the DASH-Sodium trial, a multicenter, randomized, controlled human feeding study that evaluated the blood pressure lowering effect of the DASH diet at three levels of sodium intake. Data from 92 participants with pre-hypertension or stage 1 hypertension during the 3450 mg /day sodium diet assignment contributed to this analysis. Stored frozen plasma and urine specimens were used to measure kidney related laboratory outcomes. Results: Effects of the DASH diet on blood pressure, phosphorus, intact parathyroid hormone, creatinine, and albuminuria were not modified by baseline eGFR (mean 84.5 ± 18.0 ml/min/1.73 m2, range 44.1 to 138.6 ml/min/1.73 m2) or the presence of chronic kidney disease (N=13%). Conclusions: The impact of the DASH diet on blood pressure, markers of mineral metabolism, and markers of kidney function does not appear to be modified by eGFR in this small subset of DASH-Sodium trial participants with relatively preserved kidney function. Whether greater reduction in eGFR modifies the effects of DASH on kidney related measures is yet to be determined. A larger study in individuals with more advanced kidney disease is needed to establish the efficacy and safety of the DASH diet in this patient population.
Majoron emission by neutrinos

The presence of a massless boson coupled to neutrinos in the Gelmini-Roncadelli gauge model can be tested in ..pi..,K leptonic decays and in wrong-sign single-lepton production by neutrinos. We place bounds on Majoron-neutrino couplings from experimental limits on these processes.
EFFECTS OF HIGH PRESSURE ON MOLECULES

Recent high-pressure studies reveal a wealth of new information about the behavior of molecular materials subjected to pressures well into the multimegabar range (several hundred gigapascal), corresponding to compressions in excess of an order of magnitude. Under such conditions, bonding patterns established for molecular systems near ambient conditions change dramatically, causing profound effects on numerous physical and chemical properties and leading to the formation of new classes of materials. Representative systems are examined to illustrate key phenomena, including the evolution of structure and bonding with compression; pressure-induced phase transitions and chemical reactions; pressure-tuning of vibrational dynamics, quantum effects, and excited electronic states; and novel states of electronic and magnetic order. Examples are taken from simple elemental molecules (e.g. homonuclear diatomics), simple heteronuclear species, hydrogen-bonded systems (including H2O), simple molecular mixtures, and s...
Interaction Mechanisms Between Organic Pollutants and Solid Phase Systems

The chemical and structural constitutions of solid phase surfaces in the environment make them active sorbing sites for various organic pollutants. The mineral/humic/organic matter coatings of these solid phases (e.g., soils, sediments, suspended solids, colloids, and biocolloids/biosolids) interact with organic pollutants in different ways. The most important are adsorption and partitioning. Different factors can affect the interaction mechanisms at the pollutant-solid phase interface. These include interfacial tension, cosolvency, precipitation, pH, colloidal stability, functional groups, and cation exchange capacity. In addition, dissolved humic substances present in the aqueous environment can play a major role during these interactions. They can help reduce the tendency for such interaction mechanisms to occur with regard to pollutant solubilization, hydrolysis, and photosensitization processes.
Under The Camouflage of Color and Gender: The Dread and Drama of Thomas-Hill

context of claimed injury and urgency, peppered with passionate anecdote and accusation and time-released rage. Still, the ThomasHill affair is instructive in several ways which merit critical investigation as a lesson of history and struggle too meaningful to miss and too valuable to be reductively translated in the simplistic way each of the parties would have us do. The incident represents a study in race and gender relations, especially how instead of advocates of gender and racial justice finding common ground in the context of domination, race and gender became modes of contestation among the dominated with each group perceiving its interests as more urgent and oppositional. It is also instructive in terms of how the African
Compressive mechanical property of porous magnesium composites reinforced by carbon nanotubes

Porous magnesium/carbon nanotube (Mg/CNT) composites with various CNT concentrations (0.05 and 1 wt%) and overall porosities (20, 30, and 40 %) were synthesized by a powder metallurgical method and characterized to study their microstructure and yield strengths. The introduction of pores leads to the reduction of material strength. Thus, it is attractive to add reinforcement phase to produce porous composites and improve yield strength. The porous Mg/CNT composites with low overall porosity have smaller average pore size than the porous Mg/CNT composites with high overall porosity. The compression testing results showed that the average yield strength is about one to four times of the yield strength of sand-cast Mg. Yield strength of porous Mg–0.05 wt%CNT composites is not significantly different from that of porous Mg–1 wt%CNT composites, when both composites have the same overall porosity. The average yield strength along the in-plane direction is larger than that along the normal direction for each type of porous Mg/CNT composite. The Gibson and Ashby model was used to estimate yield strength and the results show that the theoretical estimations of yield strength agree well with the experimental yield strength values for the porous composites with high overall porosity (i.e., 30 or 40 %), while the estimations are lower than the experimental data for the porous composites with low overall porosity (i.e., 20 %).
Improving Access to Hepatitis C Care for Urban, Underserved Patients Using a Primary Care-Based Hepatitis C Clinic

Objective Chronic hepatitis C affects 200 million people worldwide and is a leading cause of death from liver disease. Effective treatment is available but can be difficult to access for uninsured, urban patients. National organizations have called for improving access to hepatitis C care in these groups. We present an innovative model for expanding access to hepatitis C care for urban, underserved patients (The Grady Liver Clinic, Grady Memorial Hospital, Atlanta, Georgia). The liver clinic provides hepatitis C care by general internists in the primary care setting. Methods We performed a retrospective chart review of all liver clinic patients (n = 807) who presented in the first 5 years of the clinic's operation. Measures included patients' demographic and hepatitis C-related characteristics; prevalence of medical, psychiatric, and substance abuse comorbidities; and treatment status. Results The liver clinic population is primarily black (76%) and uninsured (59%). Patients had difficult-to-treat characteristics, including genotype 1 hepatitis C (90%), advanced liver fibrosis (28%), and high viral loads. Sixty-seven percent had comorbid medical conditions, and 40% had psychiatric disease. Fourteen percent of patients were treated for hepatitis C during the study period. Conclusion The liver clinic has proven to be a successful model for improving access to hepatitis C care for urban, underserved patients. Despite having significant hepatic disease and medical and psychiatric comorbidities, patients in the liver clinic can be successfully maintained in care and initiated on hepatitis C treatment by general internists in a primary care setting.
Computational Investigation of Adsorption of 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene on (0001) Surface of (4 × 4) α-Alumina

Adsorption of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) on a (0001) surface of (4 × 4) Al-terminated α-Al2O3 was investigated at the plane-wave density functional theory (DFT) level utilizing the PBE variant of the generalized-gradient approximation. Interactions of valence electrons with atomic cores were treated by ultrasoft pseudopotentials. Both the perpendicular and parallel orientations of TNT with respect to the substrate surface were considered. It was revealed that TNT is adsorbed strongly on the alumina surface. Such adsorption is characterized by the coordination of surface aluminum ions with nitro groups of TNT. In the perpendicular orientation of TNT, only a single nitro group is involved in the interaction with the surface while all nitro groups are involved in interaction with alumina surface in the parallel orientation resulting in much stronger binding than the perpendicular orientation. Further, a methyl hydrogen atom was also found to be involved in weak interactions with nearby oxygen atoms of the s...
Fuel Assembly Instrument Tube Tie-Rods

In March 2001, a 17×17 fuel assembly top nozzle separated from a fuel assembly while being handled in the spent fuel pool and suspended from the spent fuel handling tool. The failure mechanism was later determined to be Inter-granular Stress Corrosion Cracking (IGSCC) of the stainless steel sleeves that provide the connection between the top nozzle and the thimble tubes to form the fuel assembly skeleton. The IGSCC was attributed to spent fuel pool chemistry. Further investigation found that the failure occurred at the bulge joints which connect the 304 sleeves to the zirconium thimble tubes. The corrosion occurred at the peak of the bulge in a high stress region. The susceptible fuel assemblies are the ones having their sleeves fabricated out of “304” stainless steel. The sleeves were changed to “304L” stainless steel to avoid this risk with subsequent fuel. There are more than 18,000 IGSCC susceptible fuel assemblies in spent fuel storage pits at approximately 25 different plants. In order to meet handling needs for IGSCC affected fuel, Westinghouse developed a solution known as the Instrument Tube Tie-Rod (ITTR) as a solution for long term handling and storage. The ITTR is a metal tube that extends from the top nozzle adapter plate through the instrument tube to the bottom nozzle. It then acts as a means to reinforce the connection between the top nozzle and the balance of the fuel assembly. The ITTR is only applicable to 15×15 and 17×17 fuel types because the center location of the instrument tube. The ITTR has been designed to carry the weight of the fuel assembly during lifting/handling so that in the event that a top nozzle separates from the fuel assembly, the load is transferred directly from the top nozzle to the bottom nozzle. This design allows the fuel assembly to be handled with the standard spent fuel handling tool and procedures. Utilizing the instrument tube for the ITTR installation also allows fuel assembly core components, such as RCCAs, Thimble Plugs and Burnable Poison Assemblies to be stored in or removed from the fuel since the thimble tubes remain open. Westinghouse’s ITTR solution not only returns and ensures the structural integrity of an IGSCC affected fuel assembly (FA) while stored in either the spent fuel pool or in a dry cask but also allows any insert design to be stored in the fuel assembly. The following paper will highlight the considerations that Westinghouse undertook while in development of the ITTR project. These include the fundamental design considerations for the Instrument Tube Tie-Rods, analysis and installation tooling system used to install these at a reactor site.Copyright © 2008 by Westinghouse Electric Company
Refractory Hypoxemia and Use of Rescue Strategies. A U.S. National Survey of Adult Intensivists.

Rationale: The management of severe and refractory hypoxemia in critically ill adult patients is practice based. Variability across individual practitioners and institutions is not well documented.Objectives: To conduct a nationwide survey of critical care physicians in the United States regarding accepted definitions and management strategies for severe and refractory hypoxemia.Methods: A web-based survey was distributed to a stratified random sample of adult intensivists listed in the American Medical Association Physician Masterfile. The survey was generated by using a mixed-methods approach.Measurements and Main Results: In the survey, 4,865 e-mails were sent and 791 (16.3%) were opened. Among those who opened the e-mail message, 50% (n = 396) responded, representing 8.1% of total surveys sent. Seventy-two percent stated that their institutions lacked a protocol for identification and management of severe or refractory hypoxemia in the setting of acute respiratory failure. While the majority of respon...
Cell patterning in the Drosophila segment: engrailed and wingless antigen distributions in segment polarity mutant embryos.

By a complex and little understood mechanism, segment polarity genes control patterning in each segment of the Drosophila embryo. During this process, cell to cell communication plays a pivotal role and is under direct control of the products of segment polarity genes. Many of the cloned segment polarity genes have been found to be highly conserved in evolution, providing a model system for cellular interactions in other organisms. In Drosophila, two of these genes, engrailed and wingless, are expressed on either side of the parasegment border. wingless encodes a secreted molecule and engrailed a nuclear protein with a homeobox. Maintenance of engrailed expression is dependent on wingless and vice versa
Neutron Reference Benchmark Field Specification: ACRR 44 Inch Lead-Boron (LB44) Bucket Environment (ACRR-LB44-CC-32-CL).

This report was put together to support the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) REAL- 2016 activity to validate the dosimetry community’s ability to use a consistent set of activation data and to derive consistent spectral characterizations. The report captures details of integral measurements taken in the Annular Core Research Reactor (ACRR) central cavity with the 44 inch Lead-Boron (LB44) bucket, reference neutron benchmark field. The field is described and an “a priori” calculated neutron spectrum is reported, based on MCNP6 calculations, and a subject matter expert (SME) based covariance matrix is given for this “a priori” spectrum. The results of 31 integral dosimetry measurements in the neutron field are reported.
Bishop Leontine Turpeau Current Kelly: Toward an Ironic Prophetic Rhetoric

This article considers the rhetoric of Leontine Kelly, the first woman of color to be elected bishop in any Christian denomination. As a black woman bishop in the United Methodist Church, a denomination with a history fraught with contradiction on issues related to gender and racial (in)justice, Kelly often preached to primarily White audiences with the goal of convincing them that racism and sexism were sinful. To do so, Kelly brought together prophecy and irony. This combination proved useful for Kelly and offers possibilities for fruitful interactions between irony and prophecy.
Eye Disease in Patients with Diabetes Screened with Telemedicine

Abstract Background: Telemedicine with nonmydriatic cameras can detect not only diabetic retinopathy but also other eye disease. Objective: To determine the prevalence of eye diseases detected by telemedicine in a population with a high prevalence of minority and American Indian/Alaskan Native (AI/AN) ethnicities. Subjects and Methods: We recruited diabetic patients 18 years and older and used telemedicine with nonmydriatic cameras to detect eye disease. Two trained readers graded the images for diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), glaucomatous features, macular edema, and other eye disease using a standard protocol. We included both eyes for analysis and excluded images that were too poor to grade. Results: We included 820 eyes from 424 patients with 72.3% nonwhite ethnicity and 50.3% AI/AN heritage. While 283/424 (66.7%) patients had normal eye images, 120/424 (28.3%) had one disease identified; 15/424 (3.5%) had two diseases; and 6/424 (1.4%) had three diseases in one or both ...
The NPT’s Prospects

The Treaty on the Nonproliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), which was concluded in 1968 and came into force in 1970, is not of indefinite duration. Twenty-five years after its entry into force, as provided in Article X.2 of the treaty, a conference must be convened in 1995 to decide whether it will continue indefinitely or be extended for an additional fixed period or periods of time.
Numerical Properties of Ample Bundles

This chapter deals with the numerical properties of ample vector bundles. The theme is that amplitude implies the positivity of various intersection and Chern numbers.
Full Service Schools

In addition to the traditional academic instruction typically provided in public schools, full service schools offer an array of integrated health and social services to children and their families. This model of service delivery is based on the assumption that children will be successful learners if their social, emotional, and physical needs are met, and that many of these needs can be addressed effectively, conveniently, and efficiently through school-based service delivery.
Effects of Elevated Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide on Soil Carbon in Terrestrial Ecosystems of the Southeastern United States

As one travels through the rural southeastern landscape, even the most casual observer will note three dominant vegetation types. One cannot help but notice the predominance of forests—both natural and planted—as the Southeast is the nation’s “wood basket,” producing more wood fiber than any other area of the country. The casual traveler will also see a variety of agricultural row crops being grown. These change from cotton, corn, soybeans, and peanuts to tobacco and vegetables as one visits the varying geographic regions of this diverse area. The final land use one will observe is pasture lands; these may be supporting herds of beef cattle or may be managed to produce hay for winter feeding. All of these types of vegetation have the ability to take carbon from the atmosphere and store it either as standing biomass (including plant roots) or in soil. However, the Earth’s atmosphere is changing, and increasing carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration is one of the most studied and best documented of these changes. How will this rising CO2 affect the vegetation types of the Southeast and how will these plants impact the continuing rise in the concentration of atmospheric CO2? Finally, can these varying land uses help mitigate the increase in atmospheric CO2 by storing C in soil, and can we, as researchers, find ways to manage these systems to increase the amount of CO2 taken from the atmosphere and stored in the soil? These are the questions that will be investigated and explained in the following chapter. When considering soil C storage, there are several parameters and processes (as well as impacts on these) that must be taken into account. The first parameter to consider is inputs. Carbon can enter soil via plant processes such as root exudation, sloughing of root cells, and other processes associated with root growth. These inputs, however, are readily decomposable and probably do not add to soil C pools residing more than a few days to weeks. The majority of soil C comes directly from vegetation itself, as aboveground residue or litter and as plant roots. Therefore, it is important to consider plant growth and biomass production processes when attempting to understand soil C sequestration. Not only is
Bill Gates: A Servant Leader

Servant leadership focuses on the betterment and support of others by seeking to meet the interests, needs, and ambitions of others’ above one’s own. This can be exhibited through many ways and the case of Bill Gates, philanthropy and humanitarianism has been the central to his success. The following paper will highlight the servant leadership principles displayed by Bill Gates, as catalyst to drive strategies and ventures.
Exploring the zebra finch Taeniopygia guttata as a novel animal model for the speech-language deficit of fragile X syndrome

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common cause of inherited intellectual disability and presents with markedly atypical speech–language, likely due to impaired vocal learning. Although current models have been useful for studies of some aspects of FXS, zebra finch is the only tractable lab model for vocal learning. The neural circuits for vocal learning in the zebra finch have clear relationships to the pathways in the human brain that may be affected in FXS. Further, finch vocal learning may be quantified using software designed specifically for this purpose. Knockdown of the zebra finch FMR1 gene may ultimately enable novel tests of therapies that are modality-specific, using drugs or even social strategies, to ameliorate deficits in vocal development and function. In this chapter, we describe the utility of the zebra finch model and present a hypothesis for the role of FMRP in the developing neural circuitry for vocalization.
One step at a time

By introducing parallelism in introductory programming courses, all computer science students can receive a basic understanding of this crucial topic. Such an early introduction, however, has many challenges. This paper first presents a fall 2013 comparison of two Computer Science I (CS1) sections, leading to a conclusion emphasizing the importance of devoting sufficient time to a sufficiently small set of parallelism topics. Six additional CS1 sections are then considered, offered from spring 2014 through spring 2016 by three different instructors. Five of these removed coverage of Java thread programming due to challenges found in fall 2013, only to show measurably reduced effectiveness of the parallelism module. Thus a new thread programming integration strategy is presented, as done in spring 2016. This strategy includes active out-of-class activities that split the disparate challenges of Java thread programming into distinct exercises. Results demonstrate improved student interest and learning. It is better to cover a few PDC topics well than try to cover many in a shallow way.Active PDC programming exercises generate greater interest and motivation in students.Java thread programming has many smaller challenges that should be addressed first.
Modeling Key Differences in Underrepresented Students' Interactions with an Online STEM Course

Little is known about the ways that underrepresented students in online STEM courses interact and behave differently from their peers, or whether online courses offer learning opportunities that can better suit these under-served populations. The current study examines the logged behavioral patterns of 470 university students, spanning 3 years, who were enrolled in an online introductory STEM course. Cross-validated data mining methods were applied to their interaction logs to determine if first generation, non-white, female, or non-traditional (≥ 23 years old) students could be classified by their behaviors. Model classification accuracies were evaluated with the Matthews Correlation Coefficient (MCC). First generation (MCC = .123), non-white (MCC = .153), female (MCC = .183) and non-traditional students (MCC = .109) were classified at levels significantly above chance (MCC = 0). Follow-up analyses of predictive features showed that first-generation students made more quiz attempts, non-white students interacted more during night hours (8pm-8am), female students submitted quizzes earlier, and non-traditional students accessed discussion forums less than their peers. We show that understanding behaviors is crucial in this context because behaviors in the first two weeks alone (e.g., discussion forum participation, number of logins) predicted eventual grade in the course (MCC = .200). Implications are discussed, including suggestions for future research as well as interventions and course features that can support underrepresented STEM students in online learning spaces.
Ligation events influence ALG-2 dimerization.

Abstract ALG-2 dimerization was studied using Forster resonance-energy-transfer. D162C variants of ALG-2des23 were covalently modified with Alexa Fluor 488 and Alexa Fluor 647. When samples of the two labeled protein-preparations are combined, the sensitized emission from AF647 serves as a sensitive probe of dimer formation. At 25 °C, in the absence of divalent ions, the wild-type homodimer, ΔGF122 homodimer, and heterodimer display dissociation constants of 7.1, 26, and 4.5 nM, respectively. At 35 °C, subunit interaction is weaker, indicating that dimer formation is exothermic. Binding of Mg2+ in the C-terminal EF-hand (EF5) dramatically enhances ALG-2 dimer stability. Although occupation of EF5 by Ca2+ likewise has a stabilizing effect, its direct influence on dimer stability would be negligible at cytosolic Ca2+ levels. However, dimer stability is substantially increased by the Ca2+-dependent binding of ALG-2 target-peptides, suggesting that the occupation-status of the target-protein binding site is communicated to the dimer interface. Tween 20 is commonly used to improve ALG-2 solubility, the micelles ostensibly acting as target-protein surrogates. Paradoxically, however, the detergent markedly destabilizes ALG-2 dimers, particularly in the presence of Ca2+.
Exploring the Protest Language of Poetry: “ Cruciada Copiilor / Children’s Crusade ” and “ Dulce et Decorum Est/It is Sweet and Good ”

In this chapter, the two protest poems “Cruciada Copiilor/Children’s Crusade” by the Romanian poet, Ana Blandiana, and “Dulce et Decorum Est/It is Sweet and Good” by the British poet, Wilfred Owen, are examined within the deep stories of their particular production contexts of Ceausescu’s Romania and World War I, respectively. Each poem is then analyzed as a performative within the framework of the renovated felicity conditions, introduced in Chapter 2 based on Austin’s Speech Act Theory, for the speech act of protest. Each analysis focuses on the presuppositional conditions regarding convention, circumstance, words, persons, effects, and positionings, followed by the aspirational conditions with a focus on thoughts, intention, risk, commitment, and subsequent actions. These analyses include discussions of identity in terms of convocativity as well as how these speech acts attain pragmatic legitimacy through the fulfillment of the felicity conditions.
Current status of E / f 1 (1420) and ι / η (1450)

The current status and future prospects axe given of the E / f 1(1420) and the η(1430) region containing the ι / η(1450). These states are seen in the channels K \(\overline{K}\)π and ηππ.
Ecological Embodiment, Tragic Consciousness, and the Aesthetics of Possibility: Creating an Art of Living

John Dewey, best known as a philosopher of education, continually attacks the dualisms presupposed in many philosophical writings, especially those that separate humans from nature, individuals from society, and the mind from the body. This chapter will build upon Dewey’s writings to support four primary claims. First, it will argue that the individual is best understood in ecological terms that emphasize human embodiment within larger biological and social environments that extend globally and beyond. Second, understanding the implications of our ecological embodiment often leads to the development of a “tragic consciousness” as we become aware of our precariousness in light of the dangers within the systems of which we are a part. Third, tragic consciousness can undermine personal and social action, particularly when individuals suspect that their actions are insufficient to solve the problems facing them, whether locally or globally. Finally, this chapter will argue for the need of an aesthetics of possibility and an art of living that responds to our existential realities while cultivating meaning and working to enrich our lives. In doing so, it will draw upon not only John Dewey’s works, but also those of Thomas Alexander.
The current status of therapeutic apheresis devices in the United States.

Over the last 40 years, plasmapheresis technology and its indications for use have been continually evolving. With the growing incidence for autoimmune diseases, unsatisfactory therapeutic options, side effects of drug therapy, and economic relevance, apheresis clinicians have been leaning toward more selective plasmapheresis techniques through the use of plasma fractionators and immunoadsorption columns. Plasma fractionators are mostly used in Asia, and rarely utilized in the U.S. The majority of plasma filters approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are primary membrane plasma separators, which still require replacement fluid. The secondary plasma fractionators available in the U.S. are limited in used and mostly investigational. Immunoadsorption columns, mostly used in Europe, are gaining popularity in the U.S. Some FDA-approved immunoadsorption columns include the Prosorba protein-A silica column, Immunosorba tryptophan and phenylalanine columns, Immunosorba protein-A sepharose column, and Liposorber dextran sulfate column. In addition, the heparin-induce extracorporeal lipoprotein precipitation (HELP) system is also FDA-approved. However, there are other immunoadsorption technologies used in Europe, such as direct adsorption lipoprotein LDL-hemoperfusion, not yet available in the U.S. While each method of apheresis carries its own risks and benefits, it is the opinion of the authors that these additional apheresis techniques be available to U.S. researchers and clinicians as a therapeutic option. The authors believe that the U.S. need to aggressively investigate more specific plasmapheresis modalities and establish appropriate dialogue with regulatory and reimbursement officials for FDA-approval of these devices.
Super resolution of laser range data based on image-guided fusion and dense matching

Abstract Low-cost/real-time laser range scanner is becoming one of the dominant tools in acquiring accurate 3D point clouds for many smart applications (e.g. automated driving), while the low point density is often the limiting factor for acquiring fine-scale information. On the other hand, stereo/multi-stereo images offer considerably higher-resolution 3D data with low cost, while the image-derived point clouds generally have a higher level of uncertainty. In order to generate accurate, dense point clouds at a low cost, this paper explores a complementary data fusion of the low-resolution-high-accuracy laser range data and the high-resolution (high-res) images, and proposes a super resolution method of laser range data through a novel dense matching framework. In general, we formulate the super resolution as maximizing a posteriori - Markov random field (MAP-MRF) problem in a constrained matching framework, where a two-step strategy is introduced to remove partial inconsistencies between laser range data and images, and the confidence of the high accuracy laser points are propagated through a uniquely designed path in the high-resolution image space, such that a global dense matching algorithm can be externally constrained to yield an accurate, dense and high-fidelity point clouds. We compared the experiment results of the proposed method with the original laser range data and other two super resolution methods of laser range data under aerial, terrestrial, and indoor scenarios. These all demonstrate that the proposed method is capable of producing sub-pixel accuracy, high-fidelity point clouds, even though the density of laser range data is considerably low (hundreds of times lower than the image resolutions).
Immunohistochemical analysis of estrogen receptor in breast cancer with ESR1 mutations detected by hybrid capture-based next-generation sequencing.

Estrogen receptor-α (ER-α), encoded by ESR1, is detected by immunohistochemistry in approximately 70% of invasive breast cancers and serves as a strong predictive biomarker. ESR1-activating mutations in the ligand-binding domain have been reported in up to 35–40% of ER-positive metastatic breast cancers and are associated with endocrine therapy resistance and disease progression. At present, it is unclear whether ESR1 mutations alter the immunohistochemical detection of ER performed in routine clinical practice. In this study, ESR1 mutations in breast cancer were identified utilizing Memorial Sloan Kettering-Integrated Mutation Profiling of Actionable Cancer Targets (MSK-IMPACT), a Food and Drug Administration-approved hybridization capture-based next-generation sequencing assay. Five hundred and eighty-six breast cancers from patients with locally advanced or metastatic disease were analyzed using MSK-IMPACT in the study period. ESR1 somatic alterations were identified in 67 breast cancer samples from 66 patients. Immunohistochemical analysis of ER, progesterone receptor, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 was performed on the primary and treated breast cancers from these patients at the time of diagnosis. Twenty unique ESR1 mutations were identified involving the ligand-binding domain, all in breast cancer samples from patients previously treated with endocrine therapy. The most frequent mutations were D538G (n = 22), Y537S (n = 7), and E380Q (n = 7). All breast cancer samples with an ESR1 mutation were ER-positive by immunohistochemistry. Review of the ER immunohistochemistry in the paired untreated primary tumor and treated tumor from 34 patients showed no detectable change in the ER-positive immunohistochemical status (median percentage of invasive tumor cells with nuclear staining: untreated primary tumor 90%, treated tumor 95%). We conclude that ESR1 mutations do not appreciably diminish ER-positive staining by immunohistochemistry. In addition to standard biomarker testing by immunohistochemistry, the assessment of ESR1 mutations by molecular testing can help guide the clinical management of patients with ER-positive breast cancer in the setting of endocrine resistance and progression of disease.
The Sociopragmatics of Attitude Datives in Levantine Arabic

This book analyses data from a variety of sources, including soap operas, movies, plays, talk shows and other audiovisual material, to examine attitude datives in Levantine Arabic. It examines four types of interpersonal pragmatic marker: topic/affectee-oriented, speaker-oriented, hearer-oriented and subject-oriented.
Quantitative taurine requirement for juvenile Florida pompano (Trachinotus carolinus) fed soy‐based practical diets

Florida pompano Trachinotus carolinus is an important species in which the essentiality of taurine has been demonstrated, yet a quantitative requirement has not been estimated. Two experiments were conducted where a combined twelve diets were formulated with graded levels of taurine (ranging 1.6–41.6 g/kg dry matter) and fed to juvenile pompano (initial weight 7.73 and 4.37 g in trial 1 and 2, respectively). Dose responses were observed in terms of growth, feed efficiency and whole‐body taurine content, but there was no effect on survival. Several regression models were evaluated to determine the most appropriate one to draw conclusions from. A 4‐parameter saturation kinetic model was selected to model feed efficiency, while a 5‐parameter saturation kinetic model fitted the growth data (as thermal‐unit growth coefficient, TGC). A broken‐quadratic model served to estimate a breaking point in the whole‐body taurine content, although it also showed that whole‐body taurine kept increasing even at dietary levels in far excess of the requirement. The dietary taurine requirement was estimated at 2.5 g/kg (2.0–3.3 g/kg, 95% CI, dry matter basis) based on feed efficiency, while TGC was maximized at levels between 4.9 and 31.4 g/kg dietary taurine.
Incidence, predictors, and outcome of early seizures after mechanical thrombectomy

Abstract Objective Despite the wide utilization of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) for acute ischemic stroke treatment, little is known about the incidence of early post-thrombectomy seizures, its predictors, and association with long-term outcome. Methods Using a prospective registry of mechanical thrombectomy in ischemic stroke between January 2013 and July 2017, we identified patients who developed a seizure within 7 days (early seizure) of qualifying event. Backward stepwise regression analysis was used to assess independent predictors of seizure occurrence and the association between seizure and functional outcome (modified Rankin scale of 0–2 vs. ≥3). Results A total of 459 patients were included in the final analysis. Mean age was 67.5 (SD 15.1), and 49.9% of patients were female. Successful recanalization (TICI≥2B) was achieved in 92.8% of patients. Eleven (2.4%) patients developed at least one seizure. Only an Alberta Stroke Program Early CT (ASPECT) score of Conclusion In the studied cohort, 2.4% of ischemic stroke patients treated with MT developed at least one seizure within 7 days of stroke onset. A low ASPECT score was associated with the occurrence of early seizures. The occurrence of seizures was associated with 90-day mortality and poor functional outcome.
Postcolonial remembering in Taiwan: 228 and transitional justice as “The end of fear”

This essay examines the contested dynamics of postcolonial remembering in Taiwan. Focusing on the long-suppressed 228 massacre in particular and the White Terror period in general, we bring Taiwan’...
Candida albicans cholecystitis with associated hepatitis in a cat.

Case summaryA 3-year-old male neutered domestic shorthair cat was presented for vomiting, inappetence and icterus. Biochemical results and ultrasonographic findings were consistent with cholestasis...
Combined Qualification Vibration Testing and Fixed Base Modal Testing Utilizing a Fixed Based Correction Method

Vibration testing spaceflight hardware is a vital, but time consuming and expensive endeavor. Traditionally modal tests are performed at the component, subassembly, or system level, preferably free-free with mass loaded interfaces or fixed base on a seismic mass to identify the fundamental structural dynamic (modal) characteristics. Vibration tests are then traditionally performed on single-axis slip tables at qualification levels that envelope the maximum predicted flight environment plus 3 dB and workmanship in order to verify the spaceflight hardware can survive its flight environment. These two tests currently require two significantly different test setups, facilities, and ultimately reconfiguration of the spaceflight hardware. The vision of this research is to show how traditional fixed-base modal testing can be accomplished using vibration qualification testing facilities, which not only streamlines testing and reduces test costs, but also opens up the possibility of performing modal testing to untraditionally high excitation levels that provide for test-correlated finite element models to be more representative of the spaceflight hardware’s response in a flight environment. This paper documents the first steps towards this vision, which is the comparison of modal parameters identified from a traditional fixed-based modal test performed on a modal floor and those obtained by utilizing a fixed based correction method with a large single-axis electrodynamic shaker driving a slip table supplemented with additional small portable shakers driving on the slip table and test article. To show robustness of this approach, the test article chosen is a simple linear weldment, whose mass, size, and modal parameters couple well with the dynamics of the shaker/slip table. This paper will show that all dynamics due to the shaker/slip table were successfully removed resulting in true fixed-base modal parameters, including modal damping, being successfully extracted from a traditional style base-shake vibration test setup.
A Comparative Study of Ticarcillin and Gentamicin in the Treatment of Complicated Urinary Tract Infections

Ticarcillin is a semisynthetic penicillin for parenteral use with an antibacterial spectrum similar to that of carbenicillin but better in vitro activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Design of Sound Package for Pass-By Noise Reduction: Process and Application

The latest Pass-By (PB) noise regulation ECE R51.03 requires OEMs to achieve ever more challenging limits. In particular, the target of 68 dB(A) in 2024 set by the ECE R51.03 Phase III appears as a critical challenge, considering that such limit has to be achieved with the updated ISO 362-1:2015 measurement method. With this new measurement method, the contributions to PB noise given by tires and powertrain are more balanced compared to the past, when powertrain was the dominant source. This fact makes the achievement of the above mentioned demanding levels inherently more difficult.
Does the use of 5 mm instruments affect the outcomes of robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty in smaller working spaces? A comparative analysis of infants and older children

Summary Introduction Pediatric robot-assisted laparoscopic (RAL) pyeloplasty has become a viable minimally invasive surgical option for ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) based on its efficacy and safety. However, RAL pyeloplasty in infants can be a challenging procedure because of the smaller working spaces. The use of the larger 8 mm instruments for these patients instead of the 5 mm instruments is common because of the shorter wrist lengths. Objective We hypothesized that the use of 5 mm instruments for RAL pyeloplasty in infants with smaller working spaces will have comparable perioperative parameters and surgical outcomes in comparison with older children with larger working spaces. Study design We compared the perioperative parameters and surgical outcomes of RAL pyeloplasties performed by a single surgeon in infants and non-infant pediatric patients over a 2 year period. All of the procedures were performed using an 8.5 mm camera and 5 mm robotic instruments. Patient demographics, operative times, perioperative complications, hospital pain medication usage, hospital length of stay, and treatment success rates were compared between the two groups. Results A total of 65 pediatric RAL pyeloplasties were included in the study (16 infants and 49 non-infants, Table). There were no significant differences in gender, laterality, proportion of re-do pyeloplasty, or preoperative hydronephrosis grade between the two groups. All procedures were performed without conversion to open surgery or significant perioperative complications. There were no differences in segmental operative times (total operative time, console time, port placement time, time for dissection to UPJO, and anastomosis time), hospital pain medication usage, and hospital length of stay between the two groups (p > 0.05 for all comparisons). The treatment success rates were 93.8% (15/16) and 100% (49/49), respectively (p = 0.08). Discussion We present the first comparative study of infant and non-infant pediatric RAL pyeloplasty using 5 mm robotic instruments. An advantage of the current study is the use of a single surgeon's experience to compare RAL pyeloplasty outcomes in infants with those of older children, a group in which RAL pyeloplasty has already been shown to be efficacious and safe. Operative tips for infant RAL pyeloplasty are also provided. Conclusions RAL pyeloplasty is a safe and effective surgical modality even in infants, with comparable perioperative parameters and outcomes as those in older children. The use of 5 mm instruments in infants does not affect outcomes and offers the potential for improved cosmesis.
Policy recommendations on nurses’ use of smartphones in the Philippines

Abstract Background One key technology that has a significant implication on how nurses communicate and share information is the mobile phone, particularly the smartphone. However, its use for clinical work should be regulated by policies to minimize risks and maximize benefits. Objective To present policy recommendations on nurses’ use of smartphones that are applicable in the context of clinical work in the Philippines. Materials and method The policy recommendations were developed by synthesizing findings of a mixed-method research on nurses’ use of smartphones in the Philippines conducted from January to July 2017. Results The four policy recommendations are: (1) improving existing technologies to reduce smartphone usage, (2) providing adequate unit phones and service credits, (3) implementing realistic policies, and (4) educating nurses on the implications of using smartphones at work. Discussion and conclusion Although these recommendations might not be ideal considering that smartphone use also presents drawbacks, a pragmatic decision to allow nurses to use it for communication and information seeking purposes can help enhance the quality of care given to patients and nurses’ work productivity in settings with scarce manpower and technology. Nonetheless, hospitals should find these recommendations as a temporary solution, and they should strive to come up with a long-term solution of providing nurses with appropriate technologies to facilitate clinical work.
Trade policy options for export diversification: The case of Mali, Chad, Niger, and Guinea

The landlocked and fragile countries’ ability to create a sustainable path to economic growth and poverty reduction is inextricably linked to their export diversification potential, itself related to their connectivity within themselves, in the region, and other external markets. Mali, Chad, and Niger are first challenged by their geography—their landlocked nature with their vast and thinly populated space serves to isolate the most vulnerable communities from external and internal markets. Adding to these geographic disadvantages non-landlocked is incentive environment—defined by high and variable customs common external tariff regimes resulting from multiple overlapping regional trade arrangements—places a wedge between domestic and international prices, provides a disincentive to exports in favor of non-tradable and domestic-oriented sectors. By bringing greater coherence and convergence between the many common external tariff regimes in operation and the rationalization of their structures, and improving connectivity within and between markets, Mali, Chad, Niger, and Guinea can better promote the reallocation of resources toward tradable goods and services, putting the countries on a path toward greater economic inclusion and sustainable growth.
Explosive Bubble Interaction with an Adjacent Underwater Structure

The interaction between structures and bubbles generated by an underwater explosive (UNDEX) has been experimentally and computationally investigated. The problem analyzed consists of a flat steel plate adjacent to an explosive within an underwater environment. The experiments were performed for different standoff distances using high speed photography to capture the behavior of the underwater explosive gas bubble, and a series of pressure transducers, to record the emitted pressure histories. The numerical simulations were performed with the fully coupled Eulerian–Lagrangian fluid structure interaction code DYSMAS. The numerical simulations were validated with the experiments in terms of the detonation pressure, structural surface pressures, and UNDEX gas bubble growth and collapse. Results show that the UNDEX standoff distance greatly influences the gas bubble’s shape, migration speed, jetting behavior, and loading into its adjacent structure.