cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Optimizing Nitric Oxide Production by Time Dependent L-Arginine Administration in Isolated Human Corpus Cavernosum

Purpose: We investigated the relaxant effects of repetitive administration of L-arginine, the substrate for nitric oxide, at hourly intervals and elucidated its mechanism of action in human corpus cavernosum.Materials and Methods: Samples of human corpus cavernosum were suspended in an organ chamber for measurements of isometric tension. After precontraction with phenylephrine (10 μM), concentration-response curves were performed for L-arginine at 2-hour intervals (1 to 10 hours). Underlying mechanisms of relaxation were evaluated by inhibitory and stimulatory agents.Results: After a brief incubation period of 1 to 4 hours L-arginine (0.1 to 1,000 μM) but not D-arginine induced minor changes in HCC. In contrast, when incubation time was increased to 6 to 10 hours L-arginine evoked detectable human corpus cavernosum relaxation proportional to concentration and time. Relaxation was significantly attenuated by the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor L-NAME, the blocker of soluble guanylyl cyclase ODQ and the blo...
Assisted cubic to hexagonal phase transition in GeSbTe thin films on silicon nitride

Abstract The amorphous to face-centered cubic ( fcc ) and fcc to hexagonal close-packed ( hcp ) crystallization temperatures of GeSbTe thin films on underlying silicon nitride and silicon dioxide films were studied through slow (1 K/min) resistance versus temperature measurements. The amorphous to fcc phase transition is observed at ~ 170 °C for both cases but the fcc to hcp phase transition temperature for GeSbTe films on silicon nitride is observed to be ~ 80 °C lower than for GeSbTe films on silicon dioxide, possibly due to the hexagonal symmetry of silicon nitride.
Clostridium difficile recurrence is characterized by pro-inflammatory peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) phenotype.

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is a prevalent nosocomial and increasingly community-acquired problem. Little is known about the productive cellular response in patients. We used flow cytometry to define inflammatory (Th1 and Th17) and regulatory [Foxp3+ T-regulatory (Treg)] cells present in circulating peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from CDI patients. We consented 67 inpatients that tested either positive or negative for CDI and 16 healthy controls and compared their PBMC phenotypes. PBMC were collected, isolated, and stained for CD3, CD8 and either IL17 (Th17), IFN-γ (Th1) or Foxp3 (Treg) and analysed using flow cytometry. Twenty thousand events were collected in the lymphocyte gate (gate 1) and T-cell phenotypes were defined. CDI patients who clear the primary initial infection have greater numbers of non-CD3 PBMC. CDI patients who develop recurrence of CDI have a greater percentage of CD3+CD8+, CD3+CD4+Foxp3 and fewer low granular CD3−Foxp3+ PBMC. These patients have greater numbers of IFN-γ-producing lymphocytes, as well as PBMC phenotypes represented by increased IFN-γ- and IL17-co-expressing CD4+CD3+. This initial pro-inflammatory phenotype decreases with repeated recurrence, demonstrating importance of timing of sample collection and history of symptoms. Patients with a history of recurrence had increased Foxp3+CD3+CD4+ and IL17+CD3+CD4+ populations. Hence, CDI recurrence is hallmarked by greater numbers of circulating CD3+ lymphocytes skewed towards a Th1/Th17 inflammatory population as well as possible immune plasticity (Th17/Treg).
Ergonomic Laparoscopic Tool Handle Design

Twenty-two subjects were tested and categorized according to hand size (small, medium, or large). Each subject selected the best location for a trackball and a trigger on a handle. Each subject specified the optimum diameter/size of the handle that he or she preferred. Additionally, subjects selected their preferred pivot range for opening and closing the handle. Finally, each subject exerted his or her preferred force for the trackball and trigger controls in the selected positions. Based on the data collected in this experiment, the recommended handle diameter is in the range of 4.3 to 5.7 cm. The recommended handle pivot is the range of 8.1 to 17.3 degrees for the open and closed positions. The recommended trackball actuation force is 3.0 lbs and the recommended ratchet actuation force is 0.6 lbs, on average.
Dual-Weight Fall Cone Method for Simultaneous Liquid and Plastic Limit Determination

Simultaneously assessing liquid limit and plastic limit using a single laboratory test procedure and comparing the results to the standard test methods has not been noted in the published literature. This paper describes an innovative empirical approach that yields Atterberg limit values utilizing a dual-weight fall cone procedure and compares the values with those obtained by traditional Atterberg limits tests.
Electron beam CT versus helical CT scans for assessing coronary calcification: current utility and future directions

Abstract Background Traditional risk factors for coronary artery disease predict the development of atherosclerosis; however, their ability to identify individual patients at risk of events is limited. Methods Coronary artery calcium (CAC) is a specific marker of atherosclerosis. It can be visualized and measured noninvasively by various imaging techniques, which may add incremental prognostic value to conventional coronary factors. Results The field of atherosclerosis imaging has expanded rapidly in the last decade, and technologies such as electron-beam computed tomography (EBCT) have contributed to our understanding of the prevalence of occult coronary artery disease and its consequences. Other modalities have been previously limited by the decreased temporal and spatial resolution and slower acquisition. Recent advances in helical CT (HCT) imaging with the development of multiple row detectors CT (MDCT) and improvements in the temporal resolution have renewed clinicians' interests in using this modality to evaluate CAC, although the scores obtained with MDCT may differ somewhat from those obtained with the EBCT technology. This study critically analyzes the literature comparing the utility of EBCT and HCT in detecting coronary calcium to identify individuals at increased risk for future coronary events. Conclusions MDCT is a promising tool for coronary calcium scoring; however, more studies are needed comparing EBCT and MDCT, especially at lower CAC levels.
Economics of Antibiotic Growth Promoters in Livestock

Rapidly rising incomes are driving demand for animal protein and livestock globally. The move toward more intensive production systems to support this increased demand is projected to increase the dependence on antibiotic growth promoters. The volume of antibiotics used for growth promotion in livestock outstrips that used for disease treatment in humans and creates significant selection pressure for the evolution of antibiotic resistance—a challenge for global health and resource conservation. This review describes the benefits and costs of antibiotic growth promoters in livestock and considers the prospects for more fully accounting for the externality costs.
Correlations of Mini-Mental State and Modified Dementia Rating Scale to Measures of Transitional Health Status in Dementia

Information regarding the relationships of the Mini-Mental State (MMS) and a modified Dementia Rating Scale (mDRS) to measures of change, that is, "transitional" health status, in dementia would be potentially useful in the evaluation and care of demented patients. In a longitudinal study of demented outpatients, MMS and mDRS at entry and at 1- to 2-year follow-up were significantly correlated with five measures of physician- and advocate-rated transitional health status and change in living arrangement during this interval (p less than .01). MMS and mDRS at follow-up also predicted mortality during a subsequent year of follow-up (p less than .01). Estimated change in MMS and mDRS was significantly correlated with all transition variables, except for MMS and results suggest MMS, mDRS, and estimated change in them reflect these aspects of transitional health status in dementia.
Sensitivity and variability of metrics used in biological assessments of running waters

The authors evaluated the variability and sensitivity of a suite of biological metrics for detecting the ecological effects of metals in streams. The variability of these metrics was evaluated by partitioning the total variance in a three-way analysis of variance among spatial, seasonal, annual, and temporal-spatial interaction components using data from 6 years of biomonitoring on the Arkansas River, Colorado, USA. The authors then calculated the statistical power of these metrics given a likely experimental design aimed at detecting metal-pollution effects in streams and using estimates of variability from field data. Finally, they experimentally tested the sensitivity of these metrics to a metal mixture in stream microcosms. More than one half of the variation in richness and scraper functional feeding group metrics was explained by differences among sampling sites, which were presumably due to the presence of metal pollution. Statistical power was highest for richness measures and low for all other metrics examined. Experimental exposures revealed that richness measures were also more sensitive than functional group metrics. Their results support those of previous comparative studies that show the superiority (in terms of sensitivity, variability, and statistical power) of taxa richness measures. Most abundance, ratio, and functional group metrics were eithermore » insensitive to metal pollution, highly variable, or both. The authors conclude that similar systematic testing on a variety of metrics with other stressors will greatly enhance the utility of biological metrics in assessing the ecological effects of contaminants and establishing biological criteria.« less
Multiple methionine substitutions are tolerated in T4 lysozyme and have coupled effects on folding and stability.

Abstract In order to further explore the tolerance of proteins to amino acid substitutions within the interior, a series of core residues was replaced by methionine within the C-terminal domain of T4 lysozyme. By replacing leucine, isoleucine, valine and phenylalanine residues a total of 10 methionines could be introduced, which corresponds to a third of the residues that are buried in this domain. As more methionines are incorporated the protein gradually loses stability. This is attributed in part to a reduction in hydrophobic stabilization, in part to the increased entropic cost of localizing the long, flexible methionine sidechains, and in part to steric clashes. The changes in structure of the mutants relative to the wildtype protein are modest but tend to increase in an additive fashion as more methionines are included. In the most extreme case, namely the 10-methionine mutant, much of the C-terminal domain remains quite similar to wildtype (root-mean-square backbone shifts of 0.56 A), while the F and G helices undergo rotations of approximately 20° and center-of-mass shifts of approximately 1.4 A. For up to six methionine substitutions the changes in stability are additive. Beyond this point, however, the multiple mutants are somewhat more stable than suggested from the sum of their constituents, especially for those including the replacement Val111→Met. This is interpreted in terms of the larger structural changes associated with this substitution. The substituted sidechains in the mutant structures have somewhat higher crystallographic thermal factors than their counterparts in WT*. Nevertheless, the interiors of the mutant proteins retain a well-defined structure with little suggestion of molten-globule characteristics. Lysozymes in which selenomethionine has been incorporated rather than methionine tend to have increased stability. At the same time they also fold faster. This provides further evidence that, at the rate-limiting step in folding, the structure of the C-terminal domain of T4 lysozyme is similar to that of the fully folded protein.
In situ/operando studies for the production of hydrogen through the water-gas shift on metal oxide catalysts

In this perspective article, we show how a series of in situ techniques {X-ray diffraction (XRD), pair-distribution-function analysis (PDF), X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS), environmental transmission electron microscopy (ETEM), infrared spectroscopy (IR), ambient-pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (AP-XPS)} can be combined to perform detailed studies of the structural, electronic and chemical properties of metal oxide catalysts used for the production of hydrogen through the water-gas shift reaction (WGS, CO + H2O → H2 + CO2). Under reaction conditions most WGS catalysts undergo chemical transformations that drastically modify their composition with respect to that obtained during the synthesis process. Experiments of time-resolved in situ XRD, XAFS, and PDF indicate that the active phase of catalysts which combine Cu, Au or Pt with oxides such as ZnO, CeO2, TiO2, CeOx/TiO2 and Fe2O3 essentially involves nanoparticles of the reduced noble metals. The oxide support undergoes partial reduction and is not a simple spectator, facilitating the dissociation of water and in some cases modifying the chemical properties of the supported metal. Therefore, to optimize the performance of these catalysts one must take into consideration the properties of the metal and oxide phases. IR and AP-XPS have been used to study the reaction mechanism for the WGS on metal oxide catalysts. Data of IR spectroscopy indicate that formate species are not necessarily involved in the main reaction path for the water-gas shift on Cu-, Au- and Pt-based catalysts. Thus, a pure redox mechanism or associative mechanisms that involve either carbonate-like (CO3, HCO3) or carboxyl (HOCO) species should be considered. In the last two decades, there have been tremendous advances in our ability to study catalytic materials under reaction conditions and we are moving towards the major goal of fully understanding how the active sites for the production of hydrogen through the WGS actually work.
DL-Threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine does not exert a pressor effect in orthostatic hypotension.

DL-Threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine (DL-DOPS) was given to six subjects with severe orthostatic hypotension (OH). On separate days each subject took either 600 or 800 mg DL-DOPS or placebo. DL-DOPS increased norepinephrine (NE) excretion 10,000% and urinary normetanephrine and dihydroxyphenylglycol excretion 400%. DL-DOPS, however, led to only slight increases in excretion of the major NE metabolites 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol and vanillylmandelic acid. Only approximately 2.2% ± 0.5% (range 0.65% to 3.8%) of the L-stereoisomer (L-DOPS), when given as DL-DOPS, is converted to NE in vivo over 24 hr. DL-DOPS did not affect either supine or upright blood pressure in our subjects. Our findings do not support reports that DL-DOPS may be therapeutically useful in OH. Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics (1984) 36, 302–306; doi:10.1038/clpt.1984.179
Partial characterization of mouse placental lactogen.

Serum, placental extracts, and placental incubation medium from 12- and 17-day-pregnant mice were fractionated by gel exclusion chromatography on Sephadex G-100. The eluates were monitored for activity by a radioreceptor assay (RRA) for lactogenic hormones that detects placental lactogen (PL) and PRL. RRA activity in serum and placental extracts and incubation medium from both days of gestation eluted in two peaks, the first emerging in the void volume (Vo) and the second with an elution volume (Ve) to Vo ratio of 1.96, which was similar to the Ve to Vo ratio of a human PL marker. Fractions in the second peak stimulated casein synthesis in mouse mammary gland explants. The RRA activity of the eluates was not due to the presence of PRL, as determined by RIA, and therefore the activity in the second peak was identified as monomeric PL. Electrophoresis of mouse placental extracts and incubation medium from both days 12 and 17 of gestation on 10% polyacrylamide gels showed only one band of RRA activity (Rf = ...
Validating the Diagnosis of Sensory Processing Disorders Using EEG Technology

OBJECTIVE. This study tested the assumption of sensory integration theory that states that a relationship exists between brain function and the behavioral manifestations of sensory integrative dysfunction. METHOD. Electroencephalographic measures were used to examine brain processing in 28 children with sensory processing disorders (SPD) and 25 children who were typically developing, ages 5�12 years. RESULTS. Children with SPD demonstrated less sensory gating than children who were typically developing. A significant relationship between sensory gating and age was found in children who were typically developing but not in children with SPD. Brain activity correctly distinguished children with SPD from children who were typically developing with 86% accuracy. CONCLUSION. These results present empirical evidence that children with SPD display unique brain processing mechanisms compared to children who are typically developing and provide external validity for the diagnosis of SPD.
An equivalence based approach to dealing with uncertainty in maximum likelihood estimation

Sometimes it is difficult to obtain maximum likelihood estimates (MLE) directly from available data in presence of uncertainty. In this paper we develop an approach to dealing with uncertainty by introducing equivalent quantities of unknown variables from which concerned interests can be estimated directly. From expectation-maximization (EM) theory we treat the unknown variables as random variables and define their equivalent quantities as their mathematical expectations. To illustrate the concept of equivalence and its applications, we solve a specific MLE problem: To estimate component reliability from uncertain system life data. Two types of uncertainty for components are taken into account: status masking and left censored lifetime. We define and obtain equivalent failure and equivalent test time for components under different uncertain conditions. An EM algorithm based on the derived equivalent quantities is formulated to estimate component reliability from uncertain system life data. Compared to other methods, our approach based on equivalent quantities can handle more complex uncertainty. In addition, the convergence of the iterative estimation processes has been mathematically proved.
Cell dynamics and differentiation of conditionally immortalized human intestinal epithelial cells

Abstract BACKGROUND & AIMS: Intestinal epithelial cell lines capable of differentiating in monolayer culture have been difficult to obtain, prompting the use of novel approaches including immortalization with oncogenes or tumor viruses. The aim of this study was to obtain conditionally immortalized human intestinal epithelial cells (temperature-sensitive fetal human intestinal [tsFHI] cells) and study their growth and differentiation capabilities. METHODS: Intestinal cells from human fetuses were transformed with a temperature-sensitive simian virus 40 large tumor antigen, cloned, and screened for expression of intestinal markers. RESULTS: Establishment of tsFHI cells was crucially dependent on a growth medium based on OptiMEM. At 32 degrees C, the tsFHI cells proliferate and display crypt cell markers. Only a few scattered differentiated cells are observed together with cells displaying the morphological signs of apoptosis. A shift to 39 degrees C results in irreversible growth arrest and acquisition of an enterocyte-like phenotype. Expression of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21/WAF1/Cip1 is induced within hours of a shift to 39 degrees C 1-2 days before corresponding increases in brush border enzymes, suggesting a role in the induction rather than in the maintenance of a differentiated phenotype. CONCLUSIONS: The tsFHI cells recapitulate key aspects of intestinal cell dynamics in vitro and seem particularly suited for the study of early events in cell differentiation. (Gastroenterology 1997 Oct;113(4):1198-213)
Differential regulation of CaV1.2 channels by cAMP-dependent protein kinase bound to A-kinase anchoring proteins 15 and 79/150

The CaV1.1 and CaV1.2 voltage-gated calcium channels initiate excitation-contraction coupling in skeletal and cardiac myocytes, excitation-transcription coupling in neurons, and many other cellular processes. Up-regulation of their activity by the β-adrenergic–PKA signaling pathway increases these physiological responses. PKA up-regulation of CaV1.2 activity can be reconstituted in a transfected cell system expressing CaV1.2Δ1800 truncated at the in vivo proteolytic processing site, the distal C-terminal domain (DCT; CaV1.2[1801–2122]), the auxiliary α2δ and β subunits of CaV1.2 channels, and A-kinase anchoring protein-15 (AKAP15), which binds to a site in the DCT. AKAP79/150 binds to the same site in the DCT as AKAP15. Here we report that AKAP79 is ineffective in supporting up-regulation of CaV1.2 channel activity by PKA, even though it binds to the same site in the DCT and inhibits the up-regulation of CaV1.2 channel activity supported by AKAP15. Mutation of the calcineurin-binding site in AKAP79 (AKAP79ΔPIX) allows it to support PKA-dependent up-regulation of CaV1.2 channel activity, suggesting that calcineurin bound to AKAP79 rapidly dephosphorylates CaV1.2 channels, thereby preventing their regulation by PKA. Both AKAP15 and AKAP79ΔPIX exert their regulatory effects on CaV1.2 channels in transfected cells by interaction with the modified leucine zipper motif in the DCT. Our results introduce an unexpected mode of differential regulation by AKAPs, in which binding of different AKAPs at a single site can competitively confer differential regulatory effects on the target protein by their association with different signaling proteins.
Bayesian decision sequential analysis with survival endpoint in phase II clinical trials

Chen and Chaloner (Statist. Med. 2006; 25:2956-2966. DOI: 10.1002/sim.2429) present a Bayesian stopping rule for a single-arm clinical trial with a binary endpoint. In some cases, earlier stopping may be possible by basing the stopping rule on the time to a binary event. We investigate the feasibility of computing exact, Bayesian, decision-theoretic time-to-event stopping rules for a single-arm group sequential non-inferiority trial relative to an objective performance criterion. For a conjugate prior distribution, exponential failure time distribution, and linear and threshold loss structures, we obtain the optimal Bayes stopping rule by backward induction. We compute frequentist operating characteristics of including Type I error, statistical power, and expected run length. We also briefly address design issues.
DIETARY RISK FACTORS FOR AGE-RELATED BONE LOSS AND FRACTURES

Abstract PRECISE definition of the contribution of diet to the regulation of bone mass has been difficult. Many issues are still controversial, partly because, except during growth, changes in bone mass are relatively small and very slow and do not attract notice until a fracture occurs. Also, bone mass normally depends less on nutrition than on age, sex, race and other features of genetic constitution, muscular activity, and hormonal state. These and probably several other less important variables, such as medication use, smoking habits, and sun exposure, must be controlled before differences in bone mass between individuals or between populations can confidently be ascribed to differences in diet. A further difficulty, often ignored, is that self-chosen diets rarely differ in only one constituent.
Significance of Prostate Adenocarcinoma Perineural Invasion on Biopsy in Patients Who are Otherwise Candidates for Active Surveillance

Purpose: Perineural invasion on biopsy is associated with extraprostatic extension at radical prostatectomy. To our knowledge the significance of perineural invasion on biopsy in patients who otherwise meet the criteria for active surveillance has not been studied.Materials and Methods: The biopsy criteria for active surveillance were Gleason score 6 or less, 2 or fewer positive cores and 50% or less involvement any positive core. All cases had at least 12 biopsy cores. A total of 313 cases met the biopsy criteria for active surveillance, and elected to undergo immediate radical prostatectomy at our institution between 1992 and 2008. These cases included 51 with perineural invasion and 262 without perineural invasion.Results: There was no significant difference in patient age and mean serum prostate specific antigen at diagnosis in cases with and those without perineural invasion. Cases with perineural invasion on biopsy had a higher maximum percentage of cancer on biopsy (18.6%) vs those without perineur...
Comparison of predicted and measured lead stiffnesses of surface mounted packages

A comparison was made of predicted and measured values of lead stiffness for selected surface-mounted packages. Excellent agreement was found in all cases: 68- and 44-lead plastic leaded chip carriers (PLCCs) and cerquads (pressed ceramic quad flat pack); and 100-lead plastic quad flat packs (PQFPs). Predictions were based on the 3D elastic beam finite-element option of ANSYS, with lead geometries taken from design drawings and lead elastic properties from material specifications. Measured values were taken from straddle board test data. In these tests, the board is straddled on both sides by packages surface mounted by only their lateral or transverse leads so that lateral and transverse bending effects can be measured independently. The results point out the importance of low stiffness lead design in minimizing solder-joint deformation. >
Social Control and Recidivism in China

It has been observed that China has low recidivism rates compared to the United States. This study examines contributing factors to China's low recidivism rates by discussing unique features of Chi...
On the size of the Peru upwelling ecosystem

Previously published estimates of the area of the Peru upwelling ecosystem vary by more than an order of magnitude. In an effort to improve this situation, we used a 24-month sequence of SeaWiFS satellite images of chlorophyll in the surface water off Peru from 51S to 18.51S during September 1997–August 1999 to estimate the size of the nutrient enhanced productive habitat associated with the upwelling. The first 12month period was marked by El Ni * n conditions, the second by strong upwelling. Using a chlorophyll threshold of >1.0 mg m @3 to define the limit of the productive habitat resulted in maximum area estimates of 120 � 10 3 km 2 during September 1997–August 1998, and 220 � 10 3 km 2 during September 1998–August 1999. The latter result is consistent with an area estimate we calculated using total fishery landings and a regression relating fishery yields per unit area to annual primary production per unit area. Although yearto-year variation in the annual mean size of the upwelling ecosystem must be significant, even discounting El Ni * n events, our analysis has shown that at least five of the extreme earlier values are not good estimates of the size of the productive habitat. We may nowbe close to knowing the average size of the ecosystem to within a factor of about two. r 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Blue-Green Algae Inhibit the Development of Atherosclerotic Lesions in Apolipoprotein E Knockout Mice

Hyperlipidemia and inflammation contribute to the development of atherosclerotic lesions. Our objective was to determine antiatherogenic effect of edible blue-green algae (BGA) species, that is, Nostoc commune var. sphaeroides Kutzing (NO) and Spirulina platensis (SP), in apolipoprotein E knockout (ApoE(-/-)) mice, a well-established mouse model of atherosclerosis. Male ApoE(-/-) mice were fed a high-fat/high-cholesterol (HF/HC, 15% fat and 0.2% cholesterol by wt) control diet or a HF/HC diet supplemented with 5% (w/w) of NO or SP powder for 12 weeks. Plasma total cholesterol (TC) and triglycerides (TG) were measured, and livers were analyzed for histology and gene expression. Morphometric analysis for lesions and immunohistochemical analysis for CD68 were conducted in the aorta and the aortic root. NO supplementation significantly decreased plasma TC and TG, and liver TC, compared to control and SP groups. In the livers of NO-fed mice, less lipid droplets were present with a concomitant decrease in fatty acid synthase protein levels than the other groups. There was a significant increase in hepatic low-density lipoprotein receptor protein levels in SP-supplemented mice than in control and NO groups. Quantification of aortic lesions by en face analysis demonstrated that both NO and SP decreased aortic lesion development to a similar degree compared with control. While lesions in the aortic root were not significantly different between groups, the CD68-stained area in the aortic root was significantly lowered in BGA-fed mice than controls. In conclusion, both NO and SP supplementation decreased the development of atherosclerotic lesions, suggesting that they may be used as a natural product for atheroprotection.
Taphonomy of Naraoiids (Arthropoda) from the Middle Cambrian Kaili Biota, Guizhou Province, South China

Abstract Naraoiids in the Kaili biota (Taijiangian Stage, Wulingian Series, lower Middle Cambrian) are preserved in a variety of taphonomic states. Decomposition, entombment, and fossil diagenesis of Kaili naraoiid specimens (n = 69) are described. The decay rates of appendages, internal organs, and dorsal sclerites are different, and should be treated as separate taphonomic elements. A classification scheme to delineate the preservational states is proposed here to distinguish carcasses from molts in deposits with exceptional preservation. For example, at least 35% of Kaili naraoiids represent carcasses. Among them, ∼21% of individuals are interpreted as having been buried alive (Type A preservational state) and 79% showed some evidence of decay prior to burial (Type B preservational state). 65% of naraoiids can be either molts or decayed carcasses, and molts typically are articulated (Type C preservational state). Disarticulated (Type D preservational state) specimens are rare. Kaili naraoiids were buri...
Magnons and Phonons Optically Driven out of Local Equilibrium in a Magnetic Insulator

The coupling and possible nonequilibrium between magnons and other energy carriers have been used to explain several recently discovered thermally driven spin transport and energy conversion phenomena. Here, we report experiments in which local nonequilibrium between magnons and phonons in a single crystalline bulk magnetic insulator, ${\mathrm{Y}}_{3}{\mathrm{Fe}}_{5}{\mathrm{O}}_{12}$, has been created optically within a focused laser spot and probed directly via micro-Brillouin light scattering. Through analyzing the deviation in the magnon number density from the local equilibrium value, we obtain the diffusion length of thermal magnons. By explicitly establishing and observing local nonequilibrium between magnons and phonons, our studies represent an important step toward a quantitative understanding of various spin-heat coupling phenomena.
A Late Life Risk Index for Severe Cognitive Impairment in Mexico.

Background Several dementia risk indices have been developed for older adults in high-income countries. However, no index has been developed for populations in low- or middle-income countries. Objective To create a risk index for predicting severe cognitive impairment among adults aged ≥60 in Mexico and to compare the accuracy of this index to the Dementia Screening Indicator (DSI). Methods This study included 3,002 participants from the Mexican Health and Aging Study (MHAS) interviewed in 2001 and 2012. The MHAS risk index included sociodemographic, health, and functional characteristics collected in 2001. A point value based on the beta coefficients from a multivariable logistic regression model was assigned to each risk factor and the total score was calculated. Results The MHAS risk index (AUC = 0.74 95% CI = 0.70-0.77) and DSI (AUC = 0.72 95% CI = 0.69-0.77) had similar accuracy for discriminating between participants who developed severe cognitive impairment from those who did not. A score of ≥16 on the MHAS risk index had a sensitivity of 0.69 (95% CI = 0.64-0.70) and specificity of 0.67 (95% CI = 0.66-0.69). A score of ≥23 on the DSI had a sensitivity of 0.56 (95% CI = 0.50-0.63) and specificity of 0.78 (95% CI = 0.76-0.79). Discussion The MHAS risk index and DSI have moderate accuracy for predicting severe cognitive impairment among older adults in Mexico. This provides evidence that existing dementia risk indices may be applicable in low- and middle-income countries such as Mexico. Future research should seek to identify additional risk factors that can improve the accuracy of the MHAS risk index.
On the dimension of complex responses in nonlinear structural vibrations

Abstract The ability to accurately model engineering systems under extreme dynamic loads would prove a major breakthrough in many aspects of aerospace, mechanical, and civil engineering. Extreme loads frequently induce both nonlinearities and coupling which increase the complexity of the response and the computational cost of finite element models. Dimension reduction has recently gained traction and promises the ability to distill dynamic responses down to a minimal dimension without sacrificing accuracy. In this context, the dimensionality of a response is related to the number of modes needed in a reduced order model to accurately simulate the response. Thus, an important step is characterizing the dimensionality of complex nonlinear responses of structures. In this work, the dimensionality of the nonlinear response of a post-buckled beam is investigated. Significant detail is dedicated to carefully introducing the experiment, the verification of a finite element model, and the dimensionality estimation algorithm as it is hoped that this system may help serve as a benchmark test case. It is shown that with minor modifications, the method of false nearest neighbors can quantitatively distinguish between the response dimension of various snap-through, non-snap-through, random, and deterministic loads. The state-space dimension of the nonlinear system in question increased from 2–to–10 as the system response moved from simple, low-level harmonic to chaotic snap-through. Beyond the problem studied herein, the techniques developed will serve as a prescriptive guide in developing fast and accurate dimensionally reduced models of nonlinear systems, and eventually as a tool for adaptive dimension-reduction in numerical modeling. The results are especially relevant in the aerospace industry for the design of thin structures such as beams, panels, and shells, which are all capable of spatio-temporally complex dynamic responses that are difficult and computationally expensive to model.
Synthesizing submicrometer and nanoscale particles via self-assembled molecular membranes

The unique properties of submicrometer and nanoscale materials have stimulated a great deal of research into the synthesis of such structures. One avenue being explored is the use of organic precursors. This article describes some recent work in the use of self-assembled molecular membranes as templates for submicrometer and nanoscale structures.
High Temperature Dynamic In-Situ Raman Spectral Characterization of Sodium Borosilicate Glasses

Dynamic Raman spectra of sodium borosilicate glasses containing large amounts of boron oxide have been studied as functions of temperature and holding time. Such characterization enabled measuring the changes in the nature and states of the molecular species that were present in the glasses and their melts. The data indicate that boroxol rings involving one or more four-coordinated boron ions in the sodium oxide-containing glasses decreased in concentration as they were heated through melt temperatures as was noted earlier for boroxol groups involving three-coordinated boron ions in pure borosilicate compositions.
Behavior of 48-Year-Old Double-Tee Bridge Girders Made with Lightweight Concrete

AbstractThis paper describes the experimental testing of 48-year-old concrete bridge girders that were fabricated using lightweight concrete. After the bridge was decommissioned, three girders were transported to the Systems, Material, and Structural Health (SMASH) Laboratory at Utah State University (USU). The double-tee girders were tested to quantify the effective prestress, flexural capacity, and deck punching shear strength. The experimental results were compared with calculated values based on recommended procedures in the AASHTO LRFD bridge design specifications. The AASHTO refined method underestimated the loss of prestress of the three girders by an average of 17.6%. The calculated flexural capacities were overestimated by an average of 34.0% when compared with the measured values. This unconservative result is believed to be a result of the deck deterioration. The average calculated punching shear capacity was within 3.0% of the measured values. The experimental results were also compared with a...
An Analysis of CRIPA Findings Letters Issued to Jails for Constitutional Violations by the Department of Justice

This study analyzes Findings Letters in jail Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act (CRIPA) cases for the years 1993 through 2013 to improve our understanding of the prevalence, content and correlates of constitutional violations investigated by the Department of Justice. CRIPA authorizes the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate and file suit against local jail facilities for the unconstitutional conditions of individuals in their care. Investigating the allegations and providing local officials a Findings Letter are the first steps in a CRIPA action and determine what remedial action must be taken to avoid a federal lawsuit. The analysis revealed a high incidence of certain constitutional violations, longitudinal trends, and facility characteristics associated with CRIPA action.
Alternate Reality Games -- Definition

Alternate Reality Gaming is an emerging game genre that blurs the lines between reality and fiction by conveying a hybrid gaming experience through online and offline mechanisms. Primarily developed from and for the Internet, these games blend online and offline gameplay such that they create playing fields in everyday spaces. Accordingly, they are considered to be a form of pervasive play. The genre is famous for its mantra "This Is Not a Game."
Including Fossils in Phylogenetic Climate Reconstructions: A Deep Time Perspective on the Climatic Niche Evolution and Diversification of Spiny Lizards (Sceloporus).

AbstractFossils and other paleontological information can improve phylogenetic comparative method estimates of phenotypic evolution and generate hypotheses related to species diversification. Here, we use fossil information to calibrate ancestral reconstructions of suitable climate for Sceloporus lizards in North America. Integrating data from the fossil record, general circulation models of paleoclimate during the Miocene, climate envelope modeling, and phylogenetic comparative methods provides a geographically and temporally explicit species distribution model of Sceloporus-suitable habitat through time. We provide evidence to support the historic biogeographic hypothesis of Sceloporus diversification in warm North American deserts and suggest a relatively recent Sceloporus invasion into Mexico around 6 Ma. We use a physiological model to map extinction risk. We suggest that the number of hours of restriction to a thermal refuge limited Sceloporus from inhabiting Mexico until the climate cooled enough t...
Information Structure and File Organization

The discussions of the subsequent chapters in this book require that certain definitions be made at this point, and that a framework be established for the effective presentation of design and programming concepts. This chapter is, therefore, devoted to certain definitions, underlying concepts, and the statement of functional requirements that are placed upon the design of files for on-line systems by virtue of their incorporation into the kind of system environment discussed in Chapter I.
Why Study Science? The Keys to the Cathedral

It is often said that it is important for students to study science. Is it really necessary for those who don't plan on careers in the sciences to study or understand science? Who should study science and why? This essay is based on an article originally published in the Brown Alumni Magazine in July 1990 . On this hundredth anniversary of Kamerlingh Onnes' discovery of superconductivity, we may well reflect on the technological and theoretical marvels that are the descendants of his discovery. We may also reflect on the benefits science has showered on us (antibiotics and modern electronics to mention just two). Young people who want to participate in this adventure on a professional level must become technically proficient, so of course they must study science. But why study science if you don't intend to become a scientist? Why should a lawyer, businessman, or artist study science? We might just as well ask: Why should they read Kemal, Kaya, or even Shakespeare? Why should they watch TV or drink beer? I would like to present the antique and possibly quixotic view that we should study science because it can give us pleasure. Now the notion of pleasure associated with the physics or chemistry we remember from high school is a hard sell.
Countries in the Study

The classic theory on the emergence of state legitimacy comes from Lipset's Political Man (1961). Lipset describes a long historical process in which nations overcome a series of crises and so build the confidence of their citizens. “The stability of any given democracy depends not only on economic development but also upon the effectiveness and legitimacy of its political system. Effectiveness means actual performance, the extent to which the system satisfies the basic functions of government as most of the population and … powerful groups … see them” (Lipset 1961: 64). He further argues that modern democracies' legitimacy derives on a continuing basis from their ability to overcome crises concerning the role of religion in society, the establishment of citizenship rights for the working classes, and the distribution of income (Lipset 1961). Thus, states face an ongoing struggle of performing successfully in order to avoid legitimacy crises. Later Easton (1975) persuasively argued that states can build a “reservoir” of legitimacy to get them through difficult times but that a long-term failure to perform drains that reservoir. In order effectively to study legitimacy and test how it might vary among nations, we need a sample of countries with diverse governmental performance in various areas. In this chapter, we justify our selection of country cases by demonstrating their wide performance differences.
THE NIGERIA TELECOMMUNICATION SECTOR AND CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY A FOCUS ON GLOBACOM ENUGU

The research aimed at studying corporate social responsibility in Nigeria telecommunication sector (a study of Globacam Nigeria Limited Enugu) survey design was used in the study. The overall population was one hundred and twenty; comprising of both staff and customers of Globacom and Yam Yanane formula was used to determine the sample. The researcher used both the primary and secondary sources of data in the course of study. The primary data were collected through the instrument of questionnaire, interviews and observation. The secondary data were collected from text books, journals magazines, newspaper and libraries. Two hypotheses were developed for the work and Chi-square was used to test them (hypothesis). (The researcher findings of the project work revealed that social responsibility programmes are necessary, the findings also unveiled that Globacom Nigeria, a telecommunication firm carries out its social responsibility programme in its host community. The researchers recommended that the company should increase and expand its social responsibility programme corporate social responsibility is therefore something that a company should try and get right in implementing. It is something that business today should wholeheartedly be committed to the danger of ignoring social responsibility is too dangerous.
Best Practices in Relational Skills Training for Medical Trainees and Providers: An Essential Element of Addressing Adverse Childhood Experiences and Promoting Resilience

Medical providers' ability to form strong therapeutic alliances with patients is an essential clinical skill that is associated with a higher quality of care and improved provider well-being. However, comparatively few medical providers exhibit adequate relational skills, which serve to convey respect, communicate caring, and build trust between the medical provider and the patient. A growing number of medical training programs and continuing medical education programs have begun to incorporate relational skills training, but the results have been highly variable in terms of training methods and effect. To support administrators who are considering the implementation (or improvement) of relational skills training in their organization, we provide a set of best practices for relational skills training, in the basis of a review of the literature and on our experience as clinical educators, and show the application of these best practices through a case study. We conclude with a discussion of challenges for implementing a high-quality relational skills training program, policy-level solutions for these challenges, and recommendations for future research.
Fading-Resistant Link Scheduling in Wireless Networks

In this paper, we study the link scheduling problem considering the fluctuating fading effect in transmissions. We extend the previous deterministic physical interference model to the Rayleigh-fading model that uses the stochastic propagation to address fading effects. Based on this model, we formulate a problem called Fading-Resistant Link Scheduling (Fading-R-LS) problem, which aims to maximize the throughput of all links in a single time slot. We prove that this problem is NP-hard. Based on the geometric structure of Fading-R-LS, we then propose two centralized schemes with O(g(L)) and O(1) performance guarantee, respectively, where g(L) is the number of magnitudes of transmission link lengths. Our experimental results show that the superior performance of our proposed schemes compared to previous schemes.