cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
TLR4-mediated activation of dendritic cells by the heat shock protein DnaK from Francisella tularensis

Francisella tularensis is the causative agent of tularemia, a severe, debilitating disease of humans and other mammals. As this microorganism is also classified as a “category-A pathogen” and a potential biowarfare agent, there is a need for an effective vaccine. Several antigens of F. tularensis, including the heat shock protein DnaK, have been proposed for use in a potential subunit vaccine. In this study, we characterized the innate immune response of murine bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (DC) to F. tularensis DnaK. Recombinant DnaK was produced using a bacterial expression system and purified using affinity, ion-exchange, and size-exclusion chromatography. DnaK induced the activation of MAPKs and NF-κB in DC and the production of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-12 p40, as well as low levels of IL-10. DnaK induced phenotypic maturation of DC, as demonstrated by an up-regulation of costimulatory molecules CD40, CD80, and CD86. DnaK stimulated DC through TLR4 and the adapters MyD88 and Toll/IL-1R domain-containing adaptor-inducing IFN-β (TRIF) that mediated differential responses. DnaK induced activation of MAPKs and NF-κB in a MyD88- or TRIF-dependent manner. However, the presence of MyD88- and TRIF-dependent signaling pathways was essential for an optimal, DnaK-induced cytokine response in DC. In contrast, DnaK induced DC maturation in a TRIF-dependent, MyD88-independent manner. These results provide insight about the molecular interactions between an immunodominant antigen of F. tularensis and host immune cells, which is crucial for the rational design and development of a safe and efficacious vaccine against tularemia.
The relationship between commercial website ratings and traditional hospital performance measures in the USA

Background Our goal was to compare hospital scores from the most widely used commercial website in the USA to hospital scores from more systematic measures of patient experience and outcomes, and to assess what drives variation in the commercial website scores. Methods For a national sample of US hospitals, we compared scores on Yelp.com, which aggregates website visitor ratings (1–5 stars), with traditional measures of hospital quality. We calculated correlations between hospital Yelp scores and the following: hospital percent high ratings (9 or 10, scale 0–10) on the ‘Overall’ item on the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey; hospital individual HCAHPS domain scores (eg, nurse communication, pain control); hospital 30-day mortality; and hospital 30-day readmission rates. Results Of hospitals reporting HCAHPS (n=3796), 962 (25%) had scores on Yelp. Among hospitals with >5 Yelp ratings, the correlation of percent high ratings between Yelp and HCAHPS was 0.49 (p<0.001). The percent high ratings within each HCAHPS domain increased monotonically with increasing Yelp scores (p≤0.001 for all domains). Percent high ratings in Yelp and HCAHPS were statistically significantly correlated with lower mortality for myocardial infarction (MI; −0.19 for Yelp and −0.13 for HCAHPS) and pneumonia (−0.14 and −0.18), and fewer readmissions for MI (−0.17 and −0.39), heart failure (−0.31 and −0.39), and pneumonia (−0.18 and −0.27). Conclusions These data suggest that rater experiences for Yelp and HCAHPS may be similar, and that consumers posting ratings on Yelp may observe aspects of care related to important patient outcomes.
The Meaning of Utterance-Final Even:

This article takes up a relatively understudied phenomenon in English wherein the additive scalar focus particle even occurs following its focus, typically in utterance-final (UF) position. We show that this UF incarnation of even is not a simple variant of its prefocal (PF) counterpart. Four distinct functions of UF-EVEN are identified: (1) the mirative, (2) the elaborative, (3) the simple additive, and (4) the simple corrective. Building on Traugott’s theory of semantic change, the authors present an analysis that outlines the developmental path of UF-EVEN: all its functions are claimed to originate from PF-EVEN’s meaning, although some are less directly related to it. In addition, the authors demonstrate that UF-EVEN shares some of its developmental paths with discourse markers like actually and in fact, suggesting that it has taken on the function of a sentential adverb. The article ends with discussing repercussions for the theory of meaning change and its conventionalization.
Characterization of the structure-function relationship at the ligament-to-bone interface.

Soft tissues such as ligaments and tendons integrate with bone through a fibrocartilaginous interface divided into noncalcified and calcified regions. This junction between distinct tissue types is frequently injured and not reestablished after surgical repair. Its regeneration is also limited by a lack of understanding of the structure–function relationship inherent at this complex interface. Therefore, focusing on the insertion site between the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and bone, the objectives of this study are: (i) to determine interface compressive mechanical properties, (ii) to characterize interface mineral presence and distribution, and (iii) to evaluate insertion site-dependent changes in mechanical properties and matrix mineral content. Interface mechanical properties were determined by coupling microcompression with optimized digital image correlation analysis, whereas mineral presence and distribution were characterized by energy dispersive x-ray analysis and backscattered scanning electron microscopy. Both region- and insertion-dependent changes in mechanical properties were found, with the calcified interface region exhibiting significantly greater compressive mechanical properties than the noncalcified region. Mineral presence was only detectable within the calcified interface and bone regions, and its distribution corresponds to region-dependent mechanical inhomogeneity. Additionally, the compressive mechanical properties of the tibial insertion were greater than those of the femoral. The interface structure–function relationship elucidated in this study provides critical insight for interface regeneration and the formation of complex tissue systems.
The Financial Crisis of 2007-09: Why Did It Happen and What Did We Learn?

This review of the literature on the 2007–09 crisis discusses the precrisis conditions, the crisis triggers, the crisis events, the real effects, and the policy responses to the crisis. The precrisis conditions contributed to the housing price bubble and the subsequent price decline that led to a counterparty-risk crisis in which liquidity shrank due to insolvency concerns. The policy responses were influenced both by the initial belief that it was a marketwide liquidity crunch, and the subsequent learning that insolvency risk was a major driver. I suggest directions for future research and possible regulatory changes.
The roles of integrin-linked kinase in the regulation of myogenic differentiation.

Myogenic differentiation is a highly orchestrated, multistep process that is coordinately regulated by growth factors and cell adhesion. We show here that integrin-linked kinase (ILK), an intracellular integrin– and PINCH-binding serine/threonine protein kinase, is an important regulator of myogenic differentiation. ILK is abundantly expressed in C2C12 myoblasts, both before and after induction of terminal myogenic differentiation. However, a noticeable amount of ILK in the Triton X-100–soluble cellular fractions is significantly reduced during terminal myogenic differentiation, suggesting that ILK is involved in cellular control of myogenic differentiation. To further investigate this, we have overexpressed the wild-type and mutant forms of ILK in C2C12 myoblasts. Overexpression of ILK in the myoblasts inhibited the expression of myogenic proteins (myogenin, MyoD, and myosin heavy chain) and the subsequent formation of multinucleated myotubes. Furthermore, mutations that eliminate either the PINCH-binding or the kinase activity of ILK abolished its ability to inhibit myogenic protein expression and allowed myotube formation. Although overexpression of the ILK mutants is permissive for the initiation of terminal myogenic differentiation, the myotubes derived from myoblasts overexpressing the ILK mutants frequently exhibited an abnormal morphology (giant myotubes containing clustered nuclei), suggesting that ILK functions not only in the initial decision making process, but also in later stages (fusion or maintaining myotube integrity) of myogenic differentiation. Additionally, we show that overexpression of ILK, but not that of the PINCH-binding defective or the kinase-deficient ILK mutants, prevents inactivation of MAP kinase, which is obligatory for the initiation of myogenic differentiation. Finally, inhibition of MAP kinase activation reversed the ILK-induced suppression of myogenic protein expression. Thus, ILK likely influences the initial decision making process of myogenic differentiation by regulation of MAP kinase activation.
Rates of depletion of linoleic acid from fat depots of selected lines of mice differing in growth rate and adiposity

Rates of depletion and half-lives of linoleic acid from epididymal, subcutaneous and retroperitoneal fat pads and the residual body were compared among 5 genetically diverse strains of mice: M16, a polygenic obese line developed by selection for high postweaning gain; ICR, a control line from which M16 was derived; H6, a nonobese strain selected for large 6-week body weight; L6, selected for small 6-week body weight; and C2 a control line from which H6 and L6 were initiated. Rates of depletion and half-lives of linoleic acid were obtained on a fat-free diet following an enrichment period of feeding a diet high in linoleic acid. The M16 mice have an increased capability of synthesizing fat from carbohydrates as shown by a continued increase in fat depot weights when fed the fat-free diet. The 4 other lines showed no subsequent increase in fat depot weights on the fat-free diet. Rates of depletion of linoleic acid were significantly different among lines in each of the 4 depots. Ranking of lines for depletion rates was similar among the 3 discrete depots, but a more rapid rate of depletion was observed in subcutaneous and retroperitoneal fat depots than in the epididymal fat depot. Rates of depletion in line M16 were slower than in the ICR control line. Line H6 had a slower rate of depletion than line L6. Line L6 deviated more from the C2 control than did line H6, indicating an asymmetric correlated selection response. The decreased depletion rate of linoleic acid in fat tissue of M16 and H6 mice suggests the possibility that the turnover rates of fatty acids have been reduced in these lines as a result of a reduction in lipolytic activity. The increased depletion rate of linoleic acid in L6 mice suggests that selection for small body size has substantially increased the rate of fat turnover. The experiment demonstrates that genetic differences among lines in fat turnover have accurued as corelated responses to selection for growth rate.
Radiotherapy quality assurance in clinical trials

The goal of radiation therapy is to yield the greatest possible uncomplicated local and regional tumor control. An acceptable quality of life with few severe complications, anatomical defects or psychological disturbances should be an integral objective of excellent radiation therapy. Inasmuch as higher doses of irradiation and adequacy of treatment portals (volume irradiated) appear to correlate with greater probability of tumor control and major complications, there is a critical need to optimize treatment planning and quality assurance in radiation therapy. Along with this, techniques must be developed for reliable patient reposition and immobilization so that the optimized treatment plan can be translated into precise delivery of the irradiation. It is obvious that in clinical trials the basic parameters of therapy need to be optimally observed, in order to make comparison of experimental arms more reliable. It is easier to achieve uniformity of technical factors in a study at a single institution than in multi-institutional cooperative groups. Thus, stringent criteria must be incorporated into the protocol describing the requirements and techniques for planning and delivery of the radiation therapy. Furthermore, the dosimetry checks carried out by the Radiological Physics Center should be an integral part of this program. In some studies it is necessary to do an initial review of dosimetry factors and portal films. This alerts the radiation oncologist to variations from the protocol and, with prompt feedback and correction of the potential error, will ensure the complete evaluability of the case. Since an increasing number of reports point out that the doses of irradiation delivered and the volume treated may affect therapeutic results, a completed case review should always be carried out. Some cooperative group studies strongly suggest a correlation between the compliance with the protocol and the results of the trial. Costs of these programs in clinical trials should be justified since, for a small investment, the evaluability rate in a protocol can be increased by 10%. The increase of patient evaluability significantly decreases the cost per evaluable patient. Furthermore, the reliability of the data of the trial will be greatly enhanced by a strong quality assurance program.
Leveling the playing field: negotiating gendered rules in coed softball.

At the turn of the millennium, gender relations are in a state of flux. Increasingly, separate gendered spheres and roles are being challenged and negotiated in many areas of social life. At the sa...
Impact of Aspergillus fumigatus in allergic airway diseases

For decades, fungi have been recognized as associated with asthma and other reactive airway diseases. In contrast to type I-mediated allergies caused by pollen, fungi cause a large number of allergic diseases such as allergic bronchopulmonary mycoses, rhinitis, allergic sinusitis and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Amongst the fungi, Aspergillus fumigatus is the most prevalent cause of severe pulmonary allergic disease, including allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA), known to be associated with chronic lung injury and deterioration in pulmonary function in people with chronic asthma and cystic fibrosis (CF). The goal of this review is to discuss new understandings of host-pathogen interactions in the genesis of allergic airway diseases caused by A. fumigatus. Host and pathogen related factors that participate in triggering the inflammatory cycle leading to pulmonary exacerbations in ABPA are discussed.
Direct Measurements of Current Shear in the Tropical Pacific Ocean and Its Effect on Drift Buoy Performance

Abstract Measurements of ocean surface currents derived from drift buoy trajectories are subject to errors caused by slippage of the buoy relative to the surrounding water. This slippage error is caused by a number of forces acting on the buoy and drogue element, one of which is the current shear in the water. Idealized model calculations are used to exemplify some effects of vertical current shear on drogues, and on the performance of drogued buoy systems in current shear. It is shown that shear enhances the performance of drogues, and that long drogues should perform better than short drogues in shear, but shear also can induce slippage by adding drag force to the buoy hull. To establish environmental design parameters, average and rms current shear values between 9.7 and 22.5 meters depth were computed from Doppler acoustic current profiler measurements from the tropical Pacific Ocean. Largest values of shear (∼0.025 s−1 rms) were found near the equator in the eastern Pacific as expected. Elsewhere the...
Internal and External Influences on Water Resource Decision Making

As scarcity of water intensifies due to population growth and climatic changes, the public will become increasingly aware of the ramifications and need for solutions to water shortages. To sustain further human development, water resources will need to be conserved and traded through changes in public policy. Such policies will undoubtedly involve scientific experts but also laypersons who may have little understanding of water science. This article investigates the factors that influence the decision-making processes of nonscientists when making natural resource decisions. Public participants were given a water resource decision in which they had to choose between two possible solutions. The only variable that changed between participant groups was the visual style in which information was presented. Verbal protocols were analyzed to extract the cognitive factors that influenced their decision. In addition to differences based on visual style, personal values such as appreciation for aquatic culture, env...
Numerical Solutions to Free-Surface Axisymmetric Flows

Methods are developed for obtaining solutions by finite differences to free streamline axisymmetric, potential fluid flows. The formulation of the boundary value problem considers the velocity potential and Stokes stream function as the independent variables and the radial and axial coordinates as the dependent variables. The nonlinear partial differential equations are derived which describe axisymmetric flow in terms of the radial and axial coordinates. Because of the nonlinear nature of the equations, the solution is obtained by using a Newton-Raphson inner iteration, as well as the usual outer iteration customarily used for a finite difference solution of a partial differential boundary value problem of the elliptic type. Two axisymmetric problems have been investigated. The first is of a jet of inviscid incompressible fluid issuing from a nozzle into the free atmosphere. The second is the cavity flow resulting from a jet flowing past a body of revolution.
Biodegradation Potential of 1,1,1-Trichloro-2,2-Bis(p-Chlorophenyl) Ethane (4,4′-DDT) on a Sandy-Loam Soil Using Aerobic Bacterium Alcaligenes eutrophus A5

Abstract Although banned by industrialized countries in the early 1980s, experimental bioremediation data on 1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl) ethane (4,4′-DDT) is scarce. This study investigated the biodegradation potential of DDT in a spiked sandy-loam soil using aerobic bacterium Alcaligenes eutrophus A5 over a year; tracking both the aqueous and soil phase. Specific research objectives of different initial DDT concentrations, soil contact times (soil age), and sorption/desorption on bioremediation were evaluated while fixing factors that may impact assessment (i.e., soil particle size, temperature, inoculation periods, and nutrient composition). Two separate ∼25 mg/kg concentration soil samples were aged for 60 and 200 days while 136 and 630 mg/kg were aged only for 60 days. Biodegradation experiments and controls were sampled at 7 days, 14 days, 28 days, 3 months, 6 months, 9 months, and 1 year. DDT degradation was found to be 13%, 11%, 7%, and 2.5% for 24 mg/kg (60 day aged), 33 mg/kg (200 day...
Legal Advocacy and Education Reform: Litigating School Exclusion

School exclusion has existed as a dark side of public education since the creation of America's public schools. Several cases in the United States Supreme Court memorably invalidated State and school system efforts to deny equal educational opportunities to marginalized school children and youth. In these cases, the over-riding multiple values of education were poignantly articulated in the majority decisions.School exclusion has stubbornly persisted. It takes many forms. This article surveys the most prominent pathways to school exclusion, highlighting what has been called the "School-To-Prison-Pipeline." Various legal challenges are also evaluated. The pros and cons of litigating school exclusion cases are also assessed.
100 Gb/s Optical Network Technology

Ultra-high speed optical time-division- multiplexed (TDM) networks, operating at single stream data rates of 100 Gb/s, may offer unique advantages over wavelength division multiplexed systems. These advantages include the ability to provide integrated services (including packet service) to high-end users, multiple quality of service (QoS) levels and truly flexible bandwidth- on-demand. Realization of these high performance TDM networks requires development of a number of key technologies such as high-speed optical sources, all-optical switches, buffers and rate converters. In this paper, we will give an overview of an ultra-high-speed TDM network architecture, its well as describe recent key technology developments.
Colored dissolved organic matter in shallow estuaries: relationships between carbon sources and light attenuation

Abstract. Light availability is of primary importance to the ecological function of shallow estuaries. For example, benthic primary production by submerged aquatic vegetation is contingent upon light penetration to the seabed. A major component that attenuates light in estuaries is colored dissolved organic matter (CDOM). CDOM is often measured via a proxy, fluorescing dissolved organic matter (fDOM), due to the ease of in situ fDOM sensor measurements. Fluorescence must be converted to CDOM absorbance for use in light attenuation calculations. However, this CDOM–fDOM relationship varies among and within estuaries. We quantified the variability in this relationship within three estuaries along the mid-Atlantic margin of the eastern United States: West Falmouth Harbor (MA), Barnegat Bay (NJ), and Chincoteague Bay (MD/VA). Land use surrounding these estuaries ranges from urban to developed, with varying sources of nutrients and organic matter. Measurements of fDOM (excitation and emission wavelengths of 365 nm (±5 nm) and 460 nm (±40 nm), respectively) and CDOM absorbance were taken along a terrestrial-to-marine gradient in all three estuaries. The ratio of the absorption coefficient at 340 nm (m−1) to fDOM (QSU) was higher in West Falmouth Harbor (1.22) than in Barnegat Bay (0.22) and Chincoteague Bay (0.17). The CDOM : fDOM absorption ratio was variable between sites within West Falmouth Harbor and Barnegat Bay, but consistent between sites within Chincoteague Bay. Stable carbon isotope analysis for constraining the source of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in West Falmouth Harbor and Barnegat Bay yielded δ13C values ranging from −19.7 to −26.1 ‰ and −20.8 to −26.7 ‰, respectively. Concentration and stable carbon isotope mixing models of DOC (dissolved organic carbon) indicate a contribution of 13C-enriched DOC in the estuaries. The most likely source of 13C-enriched DOC for the systems we investigated is Spartina cordgrass. Comparison of DOC source to CDOM : fDOM absorption ratios at each site demonstrates the relationship between source and optical properties. Samples with 13C-enriched carbon isotope values, indicating a greater contribution from marsh organic material, had higher CDOM : fDOM absorption ratios than samples with greater contribution from terrestrial organic material. Applying a uniform CDOM : fDOM absorption ratio and spectral slope within a given estuary yields errors in modeled light attenuation ranging from 11 to 33 % depending on estuary. The application of a uniform absorption ratio across all estuaries doubles this error. This study demonstrates that light attenuation coefficients for CDOM based on continuous fDOM records are highly dependent on the source of DOM present in the estuary. Thus, light attenuation models for estuaries would be improved by quantification of CDOM absorption and DOM source identification.
Mechanisms of polyethylene glycol 400 permeability of perfused rat intestine

Abnormal permeability to polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400) has been demonstrated in various disorders with defective intestinal barrier functions. To understand the basic mechanisms of PEG 400 permeability, we compared PEG 400 permeation in different segments of the intestine and studied the kinetics and influence of intraluminal factors on PEG 400 absorption in vivo in perfused intestinal segments of the rat. The permeation rate of PEG 400 was dependent on the luminal concentration (y = 12.99x + 3.5; r = 0.97), indicating that passive movement is the mechanism involved in PEG 400 absorption. Changing the perfusate pH from 6 to 7.4 or modifying the unstirred water layer resistance by changing luminal flow rate did not affect PEG 400 absorption. When luminal osmolarity was varied from 0.225 to 0.6 osmol/L, higher osmolarity decreased both water and PEG 400 absorption (p greater than 0.01). The relationship between PEG 400 and water absorption at different osmolarities was linear (y = 0.9x + 5.7; r = 0.98). At a luminal osmolarity of 0.3 osmol/L 43% of PEG 400 permeation was mediated by passive diffusion and 57% was mediated by solvent drag. Increasing water absorption by decreasing luminal osmolarity resulted in proportional increase of PEG 400 permeation through solvent drag or convection. The solvent drag reflection coefficient (sigma f) for PEG 400 permeation of the jejunum was 0.1. Taurocholic acid (10 mM) alone or with oleic acid (2.5 mM) did not affect PEG 400 absorption. Permeabilities of 1 mM PEG 400 and water were similar in jejunum and ileum but were markedly increased in the colon (p greater than 0.01). These studies demonstrate that PEG 400 is absorbed by both passive diffusion and by solvent drag, with the latter accounting for a greater fraction of the absorptive drive under normal conditions. Polyethylene glycol 400 uses aqueous pathways for its permeation across the intestinal epithelium.
From Individual to Collective Intentionality

Summary and evaluation of the aims of the collection From Individual to Collective Intentionality: New Essays edited by Sara Rachel Chant, Frank Hindriks, and Gerhard Preyer in the context of the ongoing debate about collective intentionality and group agency. The individual essays contained therein are considered both from the perspective of how they advance the collection’s goals and the coherence of their individual arguments.
Lessons from the Arab Awakening of 2011

This article is based partly on events of the Arab Awakening that began in 2011. When considering the ripple effects of the tumult in the Middle East, a question arises: How can any policy-maker keep up with the vast amount of information coming from a vast number of sources? The public's political expectations are geared to the speed of the information flow, but that does not necessarily mean that those who govern should try to match the pace of this flow as they design and implement policy. Fast policy-making is often unwise policy-making, but that observation is unlikely to satisfy those who are accustomed to getting their news with the click of a mouse and expect to see crises resolved by the next time they click. This article does not endorse trying to match the pace of diplomacy to the speed of social and other media, but it does suggest that policy-makers must do a better job of addressing the political realities and technological capabilities of a social-media-oriented society that relies heavily on networks of various kinds to acquire the information used in decision-making and political action within the public sphere. Although no precise how-to-do-it formula emerges from consideration of these matters, this article may help establish the context in which policy makers and the public will be considering and responding to political events for years to come. The Arab Awakening of 2011 was just a starting point, and a long path lies ahead.
Stabilization of Neoprene. I. Protection of Latex Film against Discoloration by Light

Abstract The tendency for light-colored neoprene vulcanizates made from latex to discolor when exposed to light was inhibited markedly by compounding with triglycerides of long chain fatty acids in combination with non-discoloring (see PDF for table) antioxidants. Effectiveness increased with the degree of unsaturation of the fatty acid up to two double bonds (safflower oil). Resistance to discolorations increased with increasing amounts of oil up to 15 parts. Both the ester linkage and the degree of unsaturation in vegetable oil appeared to influence stability in light. Organo tin compounds were found which functioned synergistically with safflower oil. Discoloration of safflower oil stabilized neoprene latex compounds was not affected appreciably by commonly used acceleration systems, nor by varying the curing conditions up to 120° C. Safflower oil reduced discoloration in all neoprene latex types. Neoprene latex compounds containing safflower oil discolored in sunlight no more than those of SBR or NBR ...
260 CHARACTERIZATION OF ELEVATED BETA-TYPE NATRIURETIC PEPTIDE).

Introduction Circulating levels of beta-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) are increased in conditions characterized by volume overload and are an established tool for the diagnosis of acute congestive heart failure (CHF). However, there are clinical circumstances associated with moderately elevated BNP in the absence of acute CHF. There are a limited number of studies identifying different independent predictors of nonspecific elevation of BNP. The characterization of clinical conditions leading to moderately elevated BNP results would allow better interpretation and application of the BNP assay and perhaps influence clinical decision making in ER. Aim To characterize the patients with elevated BNP and to determine physician behavior patterns pertaining to evaluation of patients presenting with shortness of breath in the emergent setting. Material and Methods This is a retrospective observational study of patients presenting to the ER for various reasons who had BNP assays with intermediate elevation (100-500 pg/mL). Laboratory database from UMC, Fresno, was tapped to obtain list of BNP assay done between March 2003 and 2004. Records of patients with BNP values in the intermediate range were analyzed, including demographic characteristics, medical history, baseline lab work, EKG, ECHO, and discharge diagnosis. Results A total of 399 records with BNP values of interest were identified and 258 were available for the review process. Out of 258 records, echocardiography data were available on 159 of which 62 had left ventricular dysfunction (LVD). 75 records carried a discharge diagnosis of CHF. The ECHO diagnosis of LVD and discharge diagnosis of CHF did not show 100% correlation. Of the 258 records that did not carry a discharge diagnosis of CHF, the following discharge diagnoses were noted: anemia (5.81%), atrial fibrillation (7.36%), renal failure (7.75%), pneumonia (8.52%), and COPD exacerbation (4.65%). There was no significant difference between the mean BNP levels amongst all these diagnoses including LVD by ECHO. Notably, 46.5% of 258 records had the chief complaint of shortness of breath. Conclusion Moderate elevation of BNP can be found in the following clinical circumstances independent of LVD-anemia, atrial fibrillation, renal failure, pneumonia, COPD exacerbation, and hypertension. Nearly half the patients presenting to the emergency department who had a BNP level drawn did not have shortness of breath as their chief complaint. Since the BNP as a marker for CHF was established only in the setting of patients presenting with acute dyspnea, one should use caution in interpreting BNP levels when they are drawn in other settings that alter the pre- and post-test probabilities of a positive test.
Fundamental Considerations for Ultrasound-Guided Musculoskeletal Interventions

Ultrasound can be used to guide joint and soft tissue interventions to improve accuracy, efficacy, patient satisfaction, and to minimize complications. This article summarizes the rationale supporting ultrasound-guided injections and explains how to safely and effectively set up and perform these procedures.
OBDDs for Symmetric Functions

Much of the analysis reported in this monograph has been achieved through the symbolic representation of Boolean functions. OBDDs have been conjectured to be an economical vehicle for Boolean functional manipulation, but just how efficient are they? There is no known canonical Boolean function representation which remains tractably bounded for any arbitrary switching function. However, the OBDD is linear in size for some functions which cannot be represented as compactly in other canonical forms. The exclusive-OR (XOR, ®) is an example of such a function. OBDD size has also been shown to grow exponentially for some functions regardless of the variable ordering. An example of this class of circuits is the integer multipler [BRYA91], although recent research has demonstrated techniques to address the problem [BURC91b].
Chapter 11 - Macroscale Chemical Properties and X-Ray Absorption Spectroscopy of Soil Phosphorus

Abstract Agricultural management strives to optimize phosphorus (P) nutrition of plants with minimal environmental impacts. Although most research on soil phosphorus has applied macroscale approaches, synchrotron X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) is emerging as a nondestructive analytical technique for identifying phosphorus species in soils. The objective of this chapter is to convey the complementary nature of knowledge about soil phosphorus chemistry derived from various macroscale research approaches and XAS. A wealth of knowledge exists on phosphate sorption properties of soils and minerals. A limited number of XAS studies on soils have shown that multiple species of phosphate coexist, with Ca-phosphate minerals and phosphate sorbed to Fe- and Al-oxides commonly found in both acidic and calcareous soils. XAS analysis of phosphate associated with model soil matrix components provides more specific information on molecular bonding mechanisms. Such studies help to explain the behavior of P in soils and model systems, and they support mechanistic models for predicting long-term transformations, lability, and mobility of soil P.
Molecular Biology of Meiosis: Synapsis-Associated Phenomena

In tracing the metabolism of nuclear DNA during meiosis we have identified two groups of DNA sequences, each displaying a distinctive pattern of behavior during meiotic prophase. One group, which will be referred to as zygotene DNA (“zygDNA”), is coordinated in most of its activities with chromosome pairing. The other group, referred to as pachytene DNA (“PDNA”), is coordinated in its behavior with what we believe to be the process of crossing-over. Each group has been and continues to be identified by its respective mode of replication during zygotene and pachytene, well after the apparent completion of the premeiotic S-phase. The theme of this chapter is that chromosomes of at least the larger eukaryotic genomes have evolved certain DNA sequences that are specifically addressed to particular chormosomal needs during meiosis. In this chapter we focus on the zygDNA sequences because of their apparent relationship to chromosome pairing. We have no direct evidence that this is indeed the case, but we do know that the behavior of zygDNA during meiotic prophase provides strong evidence for its playing an important role in the process. Our description of that role is necessarily conjectural and our interpretation of various findings are slanted in favor of the conjecture.
A novel matching network design topology of LDMOS module for avionics application

This paper describes a design technique of LDMOS module for avionics and military application. These techniques are particularly oriented in theories and computer aided design. We introduce a practical external matching network design topology to achieve a smaller physical size using microstrip line. The circuit analysis used both transmission line and electromagnetic method (EM) to avoid cover sensitivity effects and achieve equivalently current distribution. A practical LDMOS module was proposed to demonstrate the design module. As the result, the experimental data were in good agreement with the computer simulation data using AWR professional simulation tool.
Regularized tomographic density imaging using multiple frequency information

Inverse scattering methods for density imaging have limitations in terms of required signal-to-noise ratio and bandwidth that keep them from being experimentally implemented. The multiple frequency distorted Born iterative method (MF-DBIM), has been previously proposed to overcome some of these limitations. The objective of this work is to study the convergence of MF-DBIM through both simulations and experiments. Simulations were conducted by reconstructing circular cylinders of radii 1, 2, and 4 wavelengths, and ratios of density Ap to sound speed Ac contrasts between −3 and 2. Experiments were performed using a balloon phantom filled with saline and frequencies between 1.5 and 3 MHz. Two methods for stabilizing MF-DBIM were studied: total variation regularization (TVR), and weighted TVR giving emphasis to the variation of the pixels around the edges of the imaging target. In simulations, the convergence of MF-DBIM was found to be dependent on the imaging target. For cylinders with Ap/Ac 0. The degraded performance of MF-DBIM was related to the limited spatial bandwidth of the inverse scattering problem. In experiments, calibration errors did not allow reconstruction of useful density tomograms when using MF-DBIM. Density tomograms with 56% reconstruction errors were obtained with MF-DBIM and TVR, but only for a very narrow range of regularization parameters. In contrast, reconstruction errors between 55% and 60% were obtained with MF-DBIM and weighted TVR for regularization parameter values spanning more than an order of magnitude. Therefore, preliminary experimental results presented here suggest auxiliary techniques such as weighted TVR may help extending the convergence of tomographic density imaging algorithms.
Governance in systems of systems: a systems-based model

Many concepts associated with governance and governance systems fall short in their capacity to influence or 'steer' towards intended ideals, goals or desired outcomes. The purpose of this paper is to propose a model for complex governance systems that provides an alternative viewpoint based on systems theoretic principles. This effort supports a system-of-systems (SoS) governance concept that examines: 1) a governed system - the target of governance structure and activities; 2) a governing system - the direct controller that provides regulatory capacity of the governed system; 3) a meta-governance system - a metasystem that strategically influences the 'governing' system directly and the 'governed' system indirectly; 4) the contextual environment - as anything external to the articulated SoS boundary. The main contribution of this paper is a set of systems-based concepts representing governance that will enhance the dialog and foster better understanding the governance construct as well as the associated phenomena for design, development, and performance of governance for complex systems of systems.
Economic globalization, inequality, and protest movements under capitalist political regimes, 1970–2007:

This article examines the impacts of globalization on protest movements. Highlighting the nature of capitalist political regimes in which capitalist societies and political institutions are deeply ...
Translational Correlation: Guillain–Barré Syndrome

Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) or acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy is an immune disease of the peripheral nervous system. About two-thirds of the patients have an antecedent upper respiratory tract infection. Patients present with acute or subacute symmetric weakness and paresthesia. The weakness typically starts distally in the feet and leg then gradually progresses to involve upper thigh muscle and upper extremities (ie, ascending paralysis). The gold standard diagnostic testing for GBS includes nerve conduction studies, electromyography, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis. Intravenous immunoglobulin and plasma exchange are equally proven effective treatment for GBS. Miller–Fisher syndrome is a variant of GBS with the classic triad of ataxia, ophthalmoplegia, and absence of deep tendon reflexes. Serum anti-GQ1b IgG is associated with Miller–Fisher syndrome.
An Update on Cancer Risk and Surveillance in Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis.

Malignancy represents substantial morbidity and mortality in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). This subset of patients has been proven to be at increased risk for developing cholangiocarcinoma, gallbladder carcinoma and colorectal cancer in those with overlapping inflammatory bowel disease. Herein, we review the prevalence of these malignancies and recommend screening tools and current knowledge to reduce the disease burden in this population. Cholangiocarcinoma is the most dominant malignancy affecting PSC patients, with a lifetime risk ranging from 5% to 20%. We advocate for serial US or MRI/MRCP and CA 19-9 to screen for cholangiocarcinoma. Gallbladder cancer has a lifetime risk around 2% in this population and we agree with annual imaging for lesions as recommended by national guidelines. Patients with PSC and concomitant IBD are at increased risk of colorectal carcinoma from time of diagnosis and therefore should likely undergo annual surveillance. The low rates of hepatocellular cancer and pancreatic cancer indicate surveillance for these malignancies is less advantageous.
Cuban Theater Digital Archive: A Multimodal Platform for Theater Documentation and Research

The Cuban Theater Digital Archive (http://cubantheater. org) is a unique digital collection of Cuban theater resources established by Dr. Lillian Manzor at the University of Miami. Working at the intersection of humanities and digital media, its purpose is threefold: it is a resource for teaching, learning, and research; a digital repository for important Cuban theatrical materials little known outside the island; and a forum to foster scholarly communication in this field. This paper presents a theoretical overview of CTDA’s design and development, its technical infrastructure, and its role in research, teaching and learning.
Effect of high voltage atmospheric cold plasma on white grape juice quality.

This study focuses on the effects of novel, non-thermal high voltage atmospheric cold plasma (HVACP) processing on the quality of grape juice. A quality-based comparison of cold plasma treatment with thermal pasteurization treatment of white grape juice was done.; Results: HVACP treatment of grape juice at 80 kV for 4 min resulted in a 7.4 log10 CFU mL-1 reduction in Saccharomyces cerevisiae without any significant (P > 0.05) change in pH, acidity and electrical conductivity of the juice. An increase in non-enzymatic browning was observed, but total color difference was very low and within acceptable limits. Spectrophotometric measurements showed a decrease in total phenolics, total flavonoids, DPPH free radical scavenging and antioxidant capacity, but they were found to be comparable to those resulting from thermal pasteurization. An increase in total flavonols was observed after HVACP treatments.; Conclusion: HVACP treatment of white grape juice at 80 kV for 2 min was found to be comparable to thermal pasteurization in all analyzed quality attributes. HVACP has shown the potential to be used as an alternative to thermal treatment of white grape juice. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.; © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.
Evaluation of a pulmonary strain model by registration of dynamic CT scans

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic fibrotic lung disease that develops in adults without any known cause. It is an interstitial lung disease in which the lung tissue becomes scarred and stiffens, ultimately leading to respiratory failure. This disease currently has no cure with limited treatment options, leading to an average survival time of 3-5 years after diagnosis. In this paper we employ a mathematical model simulating the lung parenchyma as hexagons with elastic forces applied to connecting vertices and opposing vertices. Using an image registration algorithm, we obtain trajectories of 4D-CT scans of a healthy patient, and one suffering from IPF. Converting the image trajectories into a hexagonal lattice, we fit the model parameters to match the respiratory motion seen for both patients across multiple image slices. We found the model could decently describe the healthy lung slices, with a minimum average error between corresponding vertices to be 1.66 mm. For the fibrotic lung slices the model was less accurate, maintaining a higher average error across all slices. Using the optimized parameters, we apply the forces predicted from the model using the image trajectory positions for each phase. Although the error is large, the spring constant values determined for the fibrotic patient were not as high as we expected, and more often than not determined to be lower than corresponding healthy lung slices. However, the net force distribution for some of those slices was still found to be greater than the healthy lung counterparts. Other modifications to the model, including additional directional components and which vertices were receiving with the limited sample size available, a clear distinction between the healthy and fibrotic lung cannot yet be made by this model.
Patent Nonuse: Are Patent Pools a Possible Solution?

Studies have depicted that the rate of unused patents comprises a high portion of patents in North America (35% Non-use on average), Europe (37% Non-use on average) and Japan (64% Non-use on average). The importance of the issue of patent non-use is also highlighted within the literature on strategic patenting, IPR policy and innovation economics and in this regards, the literature has paid particular attention to blocking patents. Moreover, the current literature has emphasized on the role of patent pools in dealing with potential issues such as excessive transaction cost caused by patent thickets and blocking patents (overlapping IPRs) that might hamper the use of patents in the market for technology. Accordingly, patent pools may favor the use of the pooled patents through decreasing licensing transaction cost and providing equal and non-discriminatory access of all the members and potential licensees to the pool’s technology. Hence, companies willing to license their patents through patent pools might consider taking advantage of faster, easier, broader and less costly access to the pool licensees. Nevertheless, in this study we argue that the willingness to commercialize patents through pool participation by a pool member is not limited to the commercialization of those patents that the company includes in the patent pool. Becoming a member of a patent pool may also favor the commercialization of blocking and non-blocking patents held by a pool member outside the pool (non-pooled patents) by providing the opportunity to commercialize the patent internally or externally in collaboration with other members. Using the data from a large scale survey on European inventors of 22,533 EPO patents resident in Europe, USA, Japan and Israel (PatVal II) as primary data and a considerably large database of patent pools in Consumer electronics, and Telecommunication technologies a secondary data (the largest constructed by 2014), in this study we show that pool members participating more intensively in patent pools are more likely to be willing to commercialize their non-pooled patents through pool participation. Furthermore, we show that pool licensors are more likely to be willing to commercialize their non-pooled patents by participating in patent pools with higher level of technological complementarity to their own technology. The robustness of our results is further checked using instrumental variable approach and linear probability model. This study contributes to the current discussion on social, economic and technological benefits of patent pools. The results of this study have practical implications for strategic decision-making and for policy makers dealing with the issue of patent non-use, overlapping IPRs, and technology commercialization.
Assessing Leader Development: Lessons From a Historical Review of MBA Outcomes:

Graduate management education seeks to enhance the likelihood that graduates will be effective leaders, managers, or professionals. This requires programs that are designed to enable students to de...