cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
DIRECT COMPUTATIONS TO DESCRIBE BATCH DISTILLATION WITH RECTIFICATION

An analog of the Rayleigh Equation has been applied for many years to describe batch distillation with rectification for binary mixtures. A solution is obtained by iterative graphical computations followed by numerical integration. When the batch distillation algorithm is stated in terms of distillate composition a computational non-iterative soluton may be obtained. For a binary separation this expression may be solved on a programmable calculator and the integral may be obtained in segments to describe the progress of the operation expressed in terms of the quantity remaining in the still-pot. This variable is not a linear function of time since even at constant reboiler duty the boil-up rate varies as the still-pot composition changes. If the time rate of the operation is to be determined, this effect must be considered. Procedures have been developed to describe the time-responses of the plate compositions and temperatures, the boil-up rate as well as the conventional variable, the volume remaining in...
State-plane approach for the analysis of half-bridge parallel resonant converters

Generalised state-plane analysis for a half-bridge parallel resonant converter (PRC) operating in continuous conduction mode is presented. It is shown that a PRC circuit of any order can be analysed in terms of simple two-dimensional state-plane diagrams, without having to use any sinusoidal approximation. The approach presented makes use of the state-variable transformation technique previously used for the analysis of second- and third-order resonant converters. This method is applied to a specific example of a sixth-order parallel resonant converter operated in the continuous conduction mode.
Impulse‐response functions and anthropogenic CO2

Non-linearities in the carbon cycle make the response to atmospheric CO2 perturbations dependent on emission history. We show that even when linear representations of the carbon cycle are used, the calculation of time scales characterizing the removal of excess CO2 depends on past emissions.
Ending Welfare Through Work First: Manager and Client Views

This paper examines how one state implemented a work first approach to moving welfare recipients into employment. It also looks at how program managers and clients evaluate the adequacy of this program model in light of the diverse needs of welfare recipients and how those needs affect their success in the labor market. We describe the evolution of work first policies and question the appropriateness of this quick labor force attachment model as the exclusive strategy for assisting all recipients. We use data from an implementation study of local welfare programs in Michigan and from a survey of a random sample of single mothers who received welfare. Local Work First program managers and recipients give the Work First program mixed appraisals, and the two studies identify many barriers that may keep clients from effectively participating and finding jobs. The barriers noted in both studies are sometimes consistent with each other, but Work First program managers tend to underestimate the prevalence of som...
The utilization of carbohydrate reserves with the transition to ureotelism in the earthworm Lumbricus terrestris L.

Abstract 1. 1. The earthworm Lumbricus is ammonotelic when feeding, but becomes ureotelic with fasting. 2. 2. There is a decline in glycogen reserves from an average of 14 mg/g wet wt to approx 4 mg/g wet wt prior to the onset of ureotelism. 3. 3. The larger the carbohydrate reserves of an individual, the later is the transition to ureotelism. 4. 4. The restoration of glycogen reserves is not essential to the return to the ammonotelic state.
Operational Advantages of Dynamic Reversible Left-Lane Control of Existing Signalized Diamond Interchanges

AbstractThe signalized diamond interchange is a widely used intersection design for freeway-to-arterial connections. The capacity of these interchanges is largely determined by the number of lanes, the demands of the various movements, the storage spaces for different movements, and the signal-timing strategies. This paper studies the advantages of using dynamic reversible lanes for left-turn movements. In traditional diamond interchanges, the bay lengths cannot change; however, if signal times are adjusted to give more time to an approach when traffic counts are heavier in one direction (such as the shifts between morning and evening peak), this limitation in capacity can be mitigated. In this work, several diamond interchange designs are studied. The optimized traditional diamond interchange performance is compared, in simulation, to the proposed dynamic reversible lane case. Situations are identified in which a dynamic reversible left-lane control would be beneficial in reducing delay and increasing th...
Understanding Variations of Soil Mapping Units and Associated Data for Forensic Science

Soil samples have potential to be useful in forensic investigations, but their utility may be limited due to the inherent variability of soil properties, the wide array of analytical methods, and complexity of data analysis. This study examined the differentiation of similar soils based on both gross (texture, color, mineralogy) and explicit soil properties (elemental composition, cation exchange, Fe-oxyhydroxides). Soils were collected from Fallbrook and adjacent map units from Riverside and San Diego Counties in California. Samples were characterized using multiple techniques, including chemical extracts, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Results were analyzed using multiple analytical approaches to compare counties and land uses. Some analyses (XRD, extractions) were better at distinguishing among samples than others (color, texture). Ratios of rare earth elements were particularly useful for distinguishing samples between counties. This potential to “fingerprint” soils illustrates the usefulness of a comprehensive soil database for criminal investigators.
Nonstandard Topology and Extensions of Monad Systems to Infinite Points

Intuitively, a topological space is a set together with some notion of “nearness”. Classically, this notion of nearness is usually described by a collection of open sets. With the development of Non-standard analysis by Abraham Robinson [11], we have an alternative way to describe this notion. If X is any set and * X is a nonstandard extension of X then we can describe a topology on X by means of a relationship of “infinitely close” on some points of X . In many ways this latter approach is more intuitive and leads to more straightforward proofs [11] than the classical approach. The first section of this paper explores the connections between these two approaches. In the main section of the paper we extend the notion of “infinitely close” to infinite points of * X . In the final section we give a very intuitive characterization of the compact-open topology (when the domain is locally compact) and use it to give quick, straight-forward proofs of the usual facts about this topology [1], [2]. This last section can be read independently of the second section.
Effects of DNA3′pp5′G capping on 3′ end repair reactions and of an embedded pyrophosphate-linked guanylate on ribonucleotide surveillance

When DNA breakage results in a 3'-PO4 terminus, the end is considered 'dirty' because it cannot prime repair synthesis by DNA polymerases or sealing by classic DNA ligases. The noncanonical ligase RtcB can guanylylate the DNA 3'-PO4 to form a DNA3'pp5'GOH cap. Here we show that DNA capping precludes end joining by classic ATP-dependent and NAD(+)-dependent DNA ligases, prevents template-independent nucleotide addition by mammalian terminal transferase, blocks exonucleolytic proofreading by Escherichia coli DNA polymerase II and inhibits proofreading by E. coli DNA polymerase III, while permitting templated DNA synthesis from the cap guanosine 3'-OH primer by E. coli DNA polymerase II (B family) and E. coli DNA polymerase III (C family). Human DNA polymerase β (X family) extends the cap primer predominantly by a single templated addition step. Cap-primed synthesis by templated polymerases embeds a pyrophosphate-linked ribonucleotide in DNA. We find that the embedded ppG is refractory to surveillance and incision by RNase H2.
Riboswitches for Intracellular Study of Genes Involved in Francisella Pathogenesis

ABSTRACT The study of many important intracellular bacterial pathogens requires an understanding of how specific virulence factors contribute to pathogenesis during the infection of host cells. This requires tools to dissect gene function, but unfortunately, there is a lack of such tools for research on many difficult-to-study, or understudied, intracellular pathogens. Riboswitches are RNA-based genetic control elements that directly modulate gene expression upon ligand binding. Here we report the application of theophylline-sensitive synthetic riboswitches to induce protein expression in the intracellular pathogen Francisella . We show that this system can be used to activate the bacterial expression of the reporter β-galactosidase during growth in rich medium. Furthermore, we applied this system to control the expression of green fluorescent protein during intracellular infection by the addition of theophylline directly to infected macrophages. Importantly, we could control the expression of a novel endogenous protein required for growth under nutrient-limiting conditions and replication in macrophages, FTN_0818. Riboswitch-mediated control of FTN_0818 rescued the growth of an FTN_0818 mutant in minimal medium and during macrophage infection. This is the first demonstration of the use of a synthetic riboswitch to control an endogenous gene required for a virulence trait in an intracellular bacterium. Since this system can be adapted to diverse bacteria, the ability to use riboswitches to regulate intracellular bacterial gene expression will likely facilitate the in-depth study of the virulence mechanisms of numerous difficult-to-study intracellular pathogens such as Ehrlichia chaffeensis, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, and Orientia tsutsugamushi, as well as future emerging pathogens. IMPORTANCE Determining how specific bacterial genes contribute to virulence during the infection of host cells is critical to understanding how pathogens cause disease. This can be especially challenging with many difficult-to-study intracellular pathogens. Riboswitches are RNA-based genetic control elements that can be used to help dissect gene function, especially since they can be used in a broad range of bacteria. We demonstrate the utility of riboswitches, and for the first time show that riboswitches can be used to functionally control a bacterial gene that is critical to the ability of a pathogen to cause disease, during intracellular infection. Since this system can be adapted to diverse bacteria, riboswitches will likely facilitate the in-depth study of the virulence mechanisms of numerous difficult-to-study intracellular pathogens, as well as future emerging pathogens.
Methoxychlor Directly Affects Ovarian Antral Follicle Growth and Atresia through Bcl-2- and Bax-Mediated Pathways

Methoxychlor (MXC) is an organochlorine pesticide and reproductive toxicant. While in vivo studies indicate that MXC exposure increases antral follicle atresia, in part by altering apoptotic regulators (Bcl-2 and Bax), they do not distinguish whether MXC does so via direct or indirect mechanisms. Therefore, we utilized an in vitro follicle culture system to test the hypothesis that MXC is directly toxic to antral follicles, and that overexpression of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2, or deletion of pro-apoptotic Bax, protects antral follicles from MXC-induced toxicity. Antral follicles were isolated from wild-type (WT), Bcl-2 overexpressing (Bcl-2 OE), or Bax deficient (BaxKO) mice, and exposed to dimethylsulfoxide (control) or MXC (1-100 microg/ml) for 96 h. Follicle diameters were measured every 24 h to assess growth. After 96 h, follicles were histologically evaluated for atresia or collected for quantitative PCR analysis of Bcl-2 and Bax mRNA levels. MXC (10-100 microg/ml) significantly inhibited antral follicle growth at 72 and 96 h, and increased atresia (100 microg/ml) compared to controls at 96 h. Furthermore, MXC increased Bax mRNA levels between 48-96 h and decreased Bcl-2 mRNA levels at 96 h. While MXC inhibited growth of WT antral follicles beginning at 72 h, it did not inhibit growth of Bcl-2 OE or BaxKO follicles until 96 h. MXC also increased atresia of small and large WT and BaxKO antral follicles over controls, but it did not increase atresia of large Bcl-2 OE antral follicles over controls. These data suggest that MXC directly inhibits follicle growth partly by Bcl-2 and Bax pathways, and increases atresia partly through Bcl-2 pathways.
Skew polynomial rings over 2-primal rings

For a 2-primal ring R, we investigate conditions on ideals of R that will ensure that a skew polynomial ring R[x,σ] or a differential polynomial ring R[x;δ] be 2-primal.
CRABS OF THE FAMILY HOMOLODROMIIDAE, I. DESCRIPTION OF THE MALE OF HOMOLODROMIA ROBERTSI GARTH, 1973 BASED ON SPECIMENS FROM DEEP WATERS OFF THE COAST OF CHILE

ABSTRACT Several large adults of Homolodromia robertsi Garth, 1973, previously known from 2 females collected off the coast of Peru, were collected from deep waters off the coast of Chile. The male of the species is described. In general, characters of the male are similar to those of the female; little sexual dimorphism exists. The first gonopod is 3-segmented, robust, and similar to that of other genera in the Dromiacea and to an earlier description of the pleopods of Homolodromia paradoxa. Data on the biology of the species (occurrence of ovigerous females, geographic range, and morphometry) are included. The range of the species is extended more than 2,600 km south.
Effect of Relative Humidity and Temperature on Airborne Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis Virus

Inactivation of airborne Venezuelan equine encephalitis (VEE) virus disseminated from liquid suspensions or from lyophilized preparations as 1- to 5-mum particles was investigated under various conditions of relative humidity and temperature in a 2,500-liter static aerosol chamber. Relative humidity ranging from 18 to 90% at 24 C and temperature ranging from -40 to 24 C had no marked effect on the biological decay rate or the recovery of viable airborne VEE virus disseminated from liquid suspensions. However, at 49 C a significant increase in the biological decay rate and decrease in aerosol recovery of the VEE virus were observed. Airborne lyophilized VEE virus was significantly affected by relative humidity. An increase in relative humidity from 20 to 90% resulted in progressive decrease in aerosol recovery of viable VEE virus. A twofold reduction in aerosol recovery of the lyophilized virus was observed at and above 29 C as compared to the lower temperatures studied. However, the differences among biological decay rates of lycphilized VEE virus were not significant within temperature range of -40 to 38 C.
Deactivation resistance of Pd/Au nanoparticle catalysts for water-phase hydrodechlorination

Abstract Palladium-decorated gold nanoparticles (Pd/Au NPs) have recently been shown to be highly efficient for trichloroethene hydrodechlorination, as a new approach in the treatment of groundwater contaminated with chlorinated solvents. Problematically, natural groundwater can contain chloride and sulfide ions, which are known poisons in Pd-based catalysis. In this study, the effects of chloride and sulfide on the trichloroethene hydrodechlorination catalytic activity were examined for non-supported Pd/Au NPs and Pd NPs, and alumina-supported Pd (Pd/Al 2 O 3 ). Over the concentration range of 0–0.02 M NaCl, the catalytic activity of Pd/Au NPs was unaffected, while the activities of both the Pd NPs and Pd/Al 2 O 3 catalysts dropped by ∼70%. Pd/Au NPs were found to be highly resistant to sulfide poisoning, deactivating completely at a ratio of sulfide to surface Pd atom (S:Pd surf ) of at least 1, compared to Pd NPs deactivating completely at a ratio of 0.5. Pd/Al 2 O 3 retained activity at a ratio of 0.5, pointing to a beneficial role of the Al 2 O 3 support. Sulfide poisoning of Pd/Au NPs with different Pd surface coverages provided a way to assess the nature of active sites. The gold component was found to enhance both Pd catalytic activity and poisoning resistance for room-temperature, water-phase trichloroethene hydrodechlorination.
Continuous pullulan fermentation in a biofilm reactor

Biofilm is a natural form of cell immobilization in which microorganisms attach onto solid support. In this study, a pigment-reduced pullulan-producing strain, Aureobasidium pullulans (ATCC 201253), was used for continuous pullulan fermentation in a plastic composite support (PCS) biofilm reactor. Optimal conditions for the continuous pullulan production were determined by evaluating the effects of the feeding medium with various concentrations of ammonium sulfate and sucrose and dilution rate. Pullulan concentration and production rate reached maximum (8.3 g/l and 1.33 g/l/h) when 15 g/l of sucrose, 0.9 g/l of ammonium sulfate, and 0.4 g/l of yeast extract were applied in the medium, and the dilution rate was at 0.16 h−1. The purity of produced pullulan was 93.0%. The ratio of hyphal cells of A. pullulans increased when it was grown on the PCS shaft. Overall, the increased pullulan productivity can be achieved through biomass retention by using PCS biofilm reactor.
Big science or bricolage: an alternative model for research in technical communication

Two research traditions inform contemporary technical communication research. With its physical science orientation and organizational capaciousness, the tradition of Big Science originated in the laboratory of Ernest O. Lawrence. With its humanistic orientation and individualistic singularity, the tradition of bricolage was identified in the fieldwork of Claude Le/spl acute/vi-Strauss. The current celebration of the former in technical communication research serves to reify a power-driven impulse for utility. The two cultures that result from such an impulse-the organizational professional and the academic researcher-have little common ground for research. To interrupt such harmful dynamics, an orientation to research is offered that celebrates successful past work in technological innovation, information design, the communication process, and the ways those processes emerge in specific contexts. To foster the continuation of such research, a community-based model is offered that draws its strength from the tradition of the bricoleur.
Definitive Radiotherapy for Unresected Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of the Trachea

Adenoid cystic carcinoma is a rare malignancy that usually originates in the salivary glands of the head and neck but has rarely been known to originate in the trachea. This histology has a predilection for perineural invasion and a tendency for both local and distant recurrences. While surgical resection is the mainstay of treatment of tracheal adenoid cystic carcinoma, tumor size, location, and patient comorbidities may preclude surgery, and the optimal nonsurgical management remains undefined. In the absence of locoregional lymph node metastases, we recommend highly conformal radiotherapy alone to a dose of 80 Gy. We report on two patients with unresectable disease who were treated with definitive radiotherapy: one using conventional photons and one treated with a combination of photon and proton beams. Both patients were treated to a dose of 80 Gy with acceptable toxicities and objective clinical and radiographic response. The patient treated with conventional photons has no evidence of recurrent disease at 5 years; the patient treated with protons has continued evidence of response without evidence of disease recurrence 11 months after treatment.
Work in progress - cost-effective experiments for a first-course in electrical machine theory

This WIP describes how an economical, commercially-available, dissectible machines system is being employed to support student studies in machine theory. Alternative, low-cost, training systems are also discussed. The system is used to complement theoretical study by allowing students to build and test a variety of electrical machines. Practical exposure has allowed students to more clearly relate the three main aspects of electrical machines: magnetic field interactions, circuit models, and mechanics. Affordable extensions to the basic system are described that allow the realization of other machine types as modest funding becomes available.
Shaken Foundations or Groundbreaking Realignment? A Centennial Assessment of Kurt G&#246;del&#146;s Impact on Logic, Mathematics, and Computer Science

The publication of Godels incompleteness theorems has frequently been portrayed as a devastating event, from which mathematics has not yet recovered. Yet those same theorems have also been hailed as proving that the powers of the human mind surpass those of any computer. Both those views, however, are caricatures. Godels impact on modern logic has been profound, but the incompleteness theorems did not cause widespread upset at the time of their publication, and subsequent mathematical work outside logic has hardly been affected by them. Nor is mathematics any less "secure" than it was before Godels work.
DIVA: a reliable substrate for deep submicron microarchitecture design

Building a high-performance microprocessor presents many reliability challenges. Designers must verify the correctness of large complex systems and construct implementations that work reliably in varied (and occasionally adverse) operating conditions. To further complicate this task, deep submicron fabrication technologies present new reliability challenges in the form of degraded signal quality and logic failures caused by natural radiation interference. In this paper, we introduce dynamic verification, a novel microarchitectural technique that can significantly reduce the burden of correctness in microprocessor designs. The approach works by augmenting the commit phase of the processor pipeline with a functional checker unit. The functional checker verifies the correctness of the core processor's computation, only permitting correct results to commit. Overall design cost can be dramatically reduced because designers need only verify the correctness of the checker unit. We detail the DIVA checker architecture, a design optimized for simplicity and low cost. Using detailed timing simulation, we show that even resource-frugal DIVA checkers have little impact on core processor performance. To make the case for reduced verification costs, we argue that the DIVA checker should lend itself to functional and electrical verification better than a complex core processor. Finally, future applications that leverage dynamic verification to increase processor performance and availability are suggested.
Bone Remodeling Associated with a Flexible Femoral Intramedullary Implant

The tissue response and bone remodeling associated with a flexible femoral intramedullary implant was evaluated. The implant consisted of wafers of porous Co-Cr-Mo alloy and microporous LTI pyrolytic carbon. Six wafers of each material were assembled in a stack and held together using a central acrylic rod. Radiography and histology demonstrated that these implants were associated with gross bone remodeling changes in the femoral shaft. The bone remodeling consisted of endosteal surface bone resorption and periosteal surface bone deposition, most likely due to a loss of structural support from the reamed medullary canal. The periosteal surface bone deposition resulted in an increase in femoral shaft diameter of 5%-140%. The bone-implant interface consisted of a fibrous connective tissue with limited areas of bone ingrowth or bone apposition.
Information needs for software development analytics

Software development is a data rich activity with many sophisticated metrics. Yet engineers often lack the tools and techniques necessary to leverage these potentially powerful information resources toward decision making. In this paper, we present the data and analysis needs of professional software engineers, which we identified among 110 developers and managers in a survey. We asked about their decision making process, their needs for artifacts and indicators, and scenarios in which they would use analytics. The survey responses lead us to propose several guidelines for analytics tools in software development including: Engineers do not necessarily have much expertise in data analysis; thus tools should be easy to use, fast, and produce concise output. Engineers have diverse analysis needs and consider most indicators to be important; thus tools should at the same time support many different types of artifacts and many indicators. In addition, engineers want to drill down into data based on time, organizational structure, and system architecture.
Benign Heterotopic Epithelial Inclusions in Axillary Lymph Nodes

Abstract Benign heterotopic epithelial inclusions in axillary lymph nodes are an extremely rare condition that must be differentiated from metastatic carcinoma. We describe 2 histologically different examples of benign epithelial inclusions in nonsentinel axillary lymph nodes, each with an unusual clinical presentation.
The Cybocephalidae (Coleoptera) of the West Indies and Trinidad

Abstract The six species of Cybocephalidae occurring in the West Indies and Trinidad are revised. Included are a new combination of Pycnocephalus deyrollei (Reitter) and descriptions of four new species: Cybocephalus antilleus, Cybocephalus caribaeus, Cybocephalus iviei, and Cybocephalus geoffreysmithi. A key to species, illustrations of morphological features including detailed drawings of male genitalia, and distribution data are provided.
Chemical depth profiling of automotive coating systems using slab microtome sectioning with IR/UV-VIS spectroscopy and optical microscopy

Chemical surface/near-surface analysis and depth profiling of high performance automotive coating systems can be done efficiently by commonly available infrared (IR), ultraviolet-visible (UV-VIS) and optical microscopy (OM) measurement technologies. The different stages of mass loss for acrylic/melamine-crosslinked clearcoats modeled after those used in high performance automotive coating systems were explored as a function of exposure time/conditions. Two approaches were used. Transmission mode IR experiments were conducted to monitor mass loss in isolated clearcoats. OM was used to monitor mass loss in clearcoats that are part of actual multilayered coating systems. UV-screener (UVA) permanence and interphase mixing (i.e., between clearcoat and basecoat layers) as well as general chemistry depth profiling studies of model acrylic/melamine-crosslinked and acrylic/melamine+silane-crosslinked clearcoats were done as a function of system preparation and exposure time/conditions. UVA depth profiles were obtained using slab microtomy sectioning co-planar to the surface, followed by solvent extraction and UV-VIS solution analysis to monitor UVA content as a function of section mass and thickness. General chemistry depth profiles were obtained using slab microtomy sectioning (as mentioned previously), followed by ATR (IR) analysis to monitor changes in the photooxidation index values and the spectral envelop in the 2600–3800 cm−1 range. The approaches described herein do not require expertise/equipment that is available to only a few, thus increasing the potential utility of such tools.
Using the Personality Assessment Inventory to Identify ADHD-Like Symptoms.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the possibility of creating a new scale on the Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI) to assess for ADHD-like symptomatology. Method: Two app...
Amplification of Perforant-Path EPSPs in CA3 Pyramidal Cells by LVA Calcium and Sodium Channels

Urban, Nathaniel N., Darrell A. Henze, and German Barrionuevo. Amplification of perforant-path EPSPs in CA3 pyramidal cells by LVA calcium and sodium channels. J. Neurophysiol. 80: 1558–1561, 1998....
Decision models for comparative usability evaluation of mobile phones using the mobile phone usability questionnaire (MPUQ)

A comparative usability evaluation was performed using various subjective evaluation methods, including Mobile Phone Usability Questionnaire (MPUQ). Further, decision-making models using Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and multiple linear regression were developed and applied. Although the mean rankings of the four phones were not significantly different across the evaluation methods, there were variations across the methods in terms of the number of rank orderings, preference proportions, and methods to select their initial preference. Thus, this study provided a useful insight into how users make different decisions through different evaluation methods. Also, the result showed that answering a usability questionnaire affected a user's decision-making process for comparative evaluation.
Analysis of Measles Surveillance from 2000 to 2006 in Maanshan City

Objective In order to understand the epidemiological features of measles since implementing the measles surveillance in Maanshan city.Methods We analyzed the measles epidemic situation and surveillance system operation during 2000～2006.Results The results showed that 597 measles cases were reported in the city during 2000-2006,264 were confirmed by laboratory,the measles annual average incidence was 3.30/105.The high incidence period was in 1-6 month every year,and the most measles cases were adolescent,31.44% cases had no clear immunization history and 21.21% cases had no immunization history.The measles surveillance system was running normally and the sensitivity was relatively high.Measles had been controlled at relatively low level.Conclusion To enhance coverage of the primary MV and inoculation in time,and to improve measles surveillance system and the ability of laboratory examination were very important for controlling measles.
"I Am the Only Child of my Parents:" Perspectives on Future Elder Care for Parents among Chinese only-Children Living overseas.

The 1979 One-Child Policy in China created a generation of only children, leading to increased elder care dilemmas for this generation and its aging parents, particularly for young adults studying or working abroad. The current study used in-depth, semi-structured interviews with Chinese young adults who were currently studying or working in Montreal, Canada (N = 20), whose parents still lived in China. The interviews focused on the following topics: elder care patterns of respondents' grandparents; family values and expectations; perceptions of professional long-term care institutions (in China and Canada); and future plans for taking care of aging parents. Respondents described their grandparents' care as following traditional elder care patterns with multiple familial caregivers, which they appreciated as a positive model that defined their own obligations towards parents. Respondents reported being very close to their parents. Some planned to settle down in Canada and bring their parents, others planned to go back to China. Citing the tradition of filial piety, they expected to take care of their parents in the future, but they also considered the dilemmas involved in caring for aging parents without siblings to share the task, potentially requiring them to find compromises between their personal lives and caring for older parents. Those who planned to settle in Canada raised additional concerns about the challenges of bringing over their parents, including acculturation and access to and communication with health and long-term care providers. The results are discussed in the context of contemporary demographic, economic, and policy concerns about aging, family care, and immigration.
The magnet in the electron

What do the massive Earth and the tiny electron have in common? The unusual answer is that both act as if they have a magnet lurking inside them. For the Earth, the magnet is almost aligned with the axis of the Earth's rotation, while the magnet inside the electron seems to point precisely in the same direction as the electron's intrinsic angular momentum or spin. Measurements of the Earth's magnetism give us a glimpse into the inner structure of our planet, revealing dramatic changes in the otherwise unseen currents of molten iron that are thought to be responsible for the geomagnetic field. Now, after a 20-year quest, we have obtained a similar magnetic glimpse into another place we cannot travel to or see: a single electron.
Functional Organization of the Ventral Auditory Pathway.

The fundamental problem in audition is determining the mechanisms required by the brain to transform an unlabelled mixture of auditory stimuli into coherent perceptual representations. This process is called auditory-scene analysis. The perceptual representations that result from auditory-scene analysis are formed through a complex interaction of perceptual grouping, attention, categorization and decision-making. Despite a great deal of scientific energy devoted to understanding these aspects of hearing, we still do not understand (1) how sound perception arises from neural activity and (2) the causal relationship between neural activity and sound perception. Here, we review the role of the “ventral” auditory pathway in sound perception. We hypothesize that, in the early parts of the auditory cortex, neural activity reflects the auditory properties of a stimulus. However, in latter parts of the auditory cortex, neurons encode the sensory evidence that forms an auditory decision and are causally involved in the decision process. Finally, in the prefrontal cortex, which receives input from the auditory cortex, neural activity reflects the actual perceptual decision. Together, these studies indicate that the ventral pathway contains hierarchical circuits that are specialized for auditory perception and scene analysis.
Examining the Role of After Sales Service in International Marketing

Customer service is considered as a basic pillar of the marketing concept. One dimension of customer service is the producer warranty which basically is an after-sales service element. The patterns of warranty coverage and duration have been tried to be explained by two theories in the literature: Exploitation theory and Signal theory. This paper discusses the implications of these for the international context. A number of implications with future research suggestions are included.
Teaching and Learning to Read Kanji as L2: Why Are They Difficult?

In college classrooms of Japanese as a second or foreign language (L2), reading kanji, Chinese characters used in Japanese writing, has been identified as one of the most challenging aspects of teaching and learning. This chapter examines why that is the case by exploring the complex linguistic functions of kanji in the modern Japanese writing system, their psycholinguistic functions, and the implications for teaching and learning kanji and reading Japanese as L2. The chapter will then discuss existing L2 kanji instructional materials and existing literature on L2 kanji learning strategies and instruction, and make possible pedagogical suggestions.
The language capacity: architecture and evolution

There is substantial evidence that the human language capacity (LC) is a species-specific biological property, essentially unique to humans, invariant among human groups, and dissociated from other cognitive systems. Each language, an instantiation of LC, consists of a generative procedure that yields a discrete infinity of hierarchically structured expressions with semantic interpretations, hence a kind of “language of thought” (LOT), along with an operation of externalization (EXT) to some sensory-motor system, typically sound. There is mounting evidence that generation of LOT observes language-independent principles of computational efficiency and is based on the simplest computational operations, and that EXT is an ancillary process not entering into the core semantic properties of LOT and is the primary locus of the apparent complexity, diversity, and mutability of language. These conclusions are not surprising, since the internal system is acquired virtually without evidence in fundamental respects, and EXT relates it to sensory-motor systems that are unrelated to it. Even such properties as the linear order of words appear to be reflexes of the sensory motor system, not available to generation of LOT. The limited evidence from the evolutionary record lends support to these conclusions, suggesting that LC emerged with Homo sapiens or not long after, and has not evolved since human groups dispersed.
Sneak peek: Raptors search for prey using stochastic head turns

ABSTRACT The strategies by which foraging predators decide when to redirect their gaze influence both prey detection rates and the prey's ability to detect and avoid predators. We applied statistical analyses that have been used to study neural decision-making for gaze redirection in primates to 3 species of predatory birds with different sizes, visual systems, habitats, and hunting behaviors: the Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis), Cooper's Hawk (A. cooperii), and Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis). The timing of head saccades was measured during visual searches using field video recordings of foraging raptors, and during a variety of behaviors using a miniature camera mounted on the head of a Northern Goshawk. The resulting statistical distribution of latencies (time between successive head saccades) was compared to predictions from various models proposed to describe visual search strategies. Our results did not support models that assume a constant probability of gaze redirection per unit time, a ...
Arteriovenous renal replacement therapy in end-stage left-sided heart failure patients has a detrimental effect on patients with impaired right ventricular function.

Abstract Objective Chronic intermittent renal replacement therapy(RRT) is an alternate method of decongestion for patients presenting with diuretic-resistant, end-stage heart failure(HF) and cardiorenal syndrome. The optimal method of vascular access has not been confirmed. This study investigated the 6-month outcomes of patients with end-stage HF after the creation of arteriovenous communications (AVC) compared with other means of RRT. Methods We treated 40 patients with chronic, intermittent, ambulatory RRT, of whom 15 (37.5%; Group A) underwent creation of AVC, and 25 (62.5%; Group B) received intraperitoneal (n = 6) or internal jugular catheters (n = 19) with the goal of achieving body weight stabilization and relief from congestion. Results The characteristics of the two groups were similar. According to Cox regression analysis, the 6-month rate of death or re-hospitalization for HF was significantly higher in Group A (73%) than in Group B (44%); hazard ratio (HR): 2.58; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.2-6.2; P = 0.02. Over a 6-month follow-up, the cumulative survival was significantly shorter ( P = 0.03) in Group A (13.8 ± 10 weeks) than in Group B (20.7 ± 7 weeks). In the 15 patients who received AVC, the only independent predictor of adverse outcome at 6 months was serum total bilirubin concentration (HR 2.5; 95% CI 1.1-5.7, p = 0.02), whereas in the 25 patients who underwent other means of RRT, pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) was identified as a risk factor for hospitalization or death at 1-year follow-up (HR 1.26; 95% CI 1.1-1.57, p = 0.04). Conclusion In patients with end-stage HF, the creation of AVC for intermittent RRT was followed by a significant increase in morbidity and mortality in comparison to the safe and effective placement of permanent central venous catheters. Patients with elevated PVR seem to comprise a group at high risk for adverse outcomes after central catheter insertion.
Teacher professional development through digital content evaluation

In this study, researchers designed and implemented a 1-year professional development (PD) program that focused on supporting teachers in evaluating and selecting digital learning contents. Participants in this investigation included 109 teachers who consented to the study amongst a total of 171 teachers from five school districts across central Ohio. In addition to their participation in the PD program, they completed surveys, interviews, and self-reflections in this mixed-method study. The results revealed that teachers’ perceived TPACK increased over time throughout the PD program, suggesting that training teachers to evaluate digital contents can be an effective PD model to improve teachers’ capacity in learning technology integration. The PD program was especially effective for teachers with less prior experience in technology integration or related training. Mathematics teachers, in comparison to teachers from other disciplines, began with low TPACK; however, these initial differences gradually diminished over the course of the PD program. In terms of their motivation in digital content evaluation, teachers’ expectancy for success increased significantly while their task values remained medium high. The qualitative analyses provided additional insights and revealed design suggestions for success in future PDs.
Desiccation tolerance: Seedy origins of resurrection.

Resurrection plants can survive extreme drying during periods of prolonged drought stress, maintaining a quiescent state for months to years until the return of water. Analysis of the genome and transcriptome of the resurrection plant Xerophyta viscosa links the evolution of desiccation tolerance to rewired pre-existing seed pathways.
Cathepsin K Inhibitors for Osteoporosis: Biology, Potential Clinical Utility, and Lessons Learned

Cathepsin K is a cysteine protease member of the cathepsin lysosomal protease family. Although cathepsin K is highly expressed in osteoclasts, lower levels of cathepsin K are also found in a variety of other tissues. Secretion of cathepsin K from the osteoclast into the sealed osteoclast-bone cell interface results in efficient degradation of type I collagen. The absence of cathepsin K activity in humans results in pycnodysostosis, characterized by increased bone mineral density and fractures. Pharmacologic cathepsin K inhibition leads to continuous increases in bone mineral density for ≤5 years of treatment and improves bone strength at the spine and hip. Compared with other antiresorptive agents, cathepsin K inhibition is nearly equally efficacious for reducing biochemical markers of bone resorption but comparatively less active for reducing bone formation markers. Despite multiple efforts to develop cathepsin K inhibitors, potential concerns related to off-target effects of the inhibitors against other cathepsins and cathepsin K inhibition at nonbone sites, including skin and perhaps cardiovascular and cerebrovascular sites, prolonged the regulatory approval process. A large multinational randomized, double-blind phase III study of odanacatib in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis was recently completed. Although that study demonstrated clinically relevant reductions in fractures at multiple sites, odanacatib was ultimately withdrawn from the regulatory approval process after it was found to be associated with an increased risk of cerebrovascular accidents. Nonetheless, the underlying biology and clinical effects of cathepsin K inhibition remain of considerable interest and could guide future therapeutic approaches for osteoporosis.
Video capture of human behaviors: toward a Big Data approach

The lowering costs of cameras and data storage have led to an increasing volume of video data from a wide variety of sources. In this review, we analyze four sources of video data ( i.e. , traditional laboratory cameras, wearable cameras, public cameras, and private cameras), highlighting the strengths and limitations of each source regarding its utility for capturing human behaviors. While there will be technical and ethical challenges in using video camera data for human behavior research, we see promise in increased fidelity for assessing and analyzing various types of human behaviors, including behavioral occurrence, change, and development, and socio-ecological contexts. We encourage the judicious collection and secure storage of large-scale video data and the development of integrative video analytics for human behavior research.
Factors associated with cognitive impairment in a cohort of older homeless adults: Results from the HOPE HOME study.

Abstract Background We evaluated cognitive function and factors associated with cognitive impairment in a cohort of older homeless adults. We hypothesized that substance use and a history of traumatic brain injury would be associated with cognitive impairment. Methods We recruited 350 homeless individuals aged ≥50 years using population-based sampling and conducted structured interviews and neuropsychological testing. We evaluated alcohol use with the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test, defining high-severity alcohol use as a total score ≥16 or ≥4 on the alcohol dependency sub-scale. We assessed global cognition with the Modified Mini-Mental State Test (3MS) and processing speed and executive function with the Trail Making Test (TMTB), defining impairment as performing 1.5 standard deviations below the standardized mean. We used multivariable logistic regression to examine the association between alcohol use and cognition. Results Participants had a median age of 58 years [IQR 54–61], 76.7% were men, and 79.9% were African American. A quarter (25.1%) of participants met criteria for impairment on the 3MS; 32.9% met criteria for impairment on TMTB. In models adjusted for sociodemographic variables and health conditions, high-severity alcohol use was associated with global cognitive impairment (AOR 2.39, CI 1.19–4.79) and executive dysfunction (AOR 3.09, CI 1.61–5.92). Conclusions Older homeless adults displayed a prevalence of cognitive impairment 3–4 times higher than has been observed in general population adults aged 70 and older. Impaired cognition in older homeless adults could impact access to housing programs and the treatment of health conditions, including the treatment of alcohol use disorders.
Successful parathyroidectomy guided by intraoperative parathyroid hormone monitoring for primary hyperparathyroidism is preserved in mild and moderate renal insufficiency.

Abstract Background The effect of altered parathyroid hormone metabolism in renal insufficiency on intraoperative parathyroid hormone monitoring during parathyroidectomy is not well known. This study evaluates operative outcomes in patients undergoing parathyroidectomy guided by intraoperative parathyroid hormone monitoring for primary hyperparathyroidism with mild and moderate renal insufficiency. Methods A retrospective review of prospectively collected data in 604 patients with sporadic primary hyperparathyroidism undergoing parathyroidectomy guided by intraoperative parathyroid hormone monitoring was performed. Patients were stratified by stage of chronic kidney disease (CKD); those with overt secondary hyperparathyroidism (CKD stages IV and V) were excluded. Rates of bilateral neck exploration, multiglandular disease, and long-term operative outcomes, including success, failure, and recurrence were compared. Results Of the 604 patients, 38% (230/604) had normal renal function or stage I CKD, 44% (268/604) had stage II CKD, and 18% (106/604) had stage III CKD. Overall, there were no differences in the rates of bilateral neck exploration or multiglandular disease or in rates of operative success, failure, or recurrence in patients with normal renal function and stages I to III CKD. Conclusion Parathyroidectomy guided by intraoperative parathyroid hormone monitoring is performed with high operative success uniformly in primary hyperparathyroidism patients with mild and moderate renal insufficiency with outcomes similar to those with normal renal function.