cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract 273: Phenotypic Differences Between Human Subcutaneous and Perivascular Adipose Tissues

Objective: Human adipose lies in specific anatomic depots. Peri-vascular adipose appears unique and impacts blood vessel biology, but direct human data is limited. In view of their theorized roles, we tested the hypothesis that human peri-vascular and subcutaneous adipose tissue hold distinct phenotypic signatures. We also evaluated the impact of clinical parameters on adipose phenotype. Methods: Fresh human peri-vascular and subcutaneous adipose tissues were collected intra-operatively from patients undergoing major lower extremity amputation (n=27) and assayed for protein levels of the adipose-associated mediators IL-6, IL-8, leptin, TNF-α, MCP-1, adiponectin, resistin and PAI-1. Results: Leptin (2.4 fold, p=0.045) and adiponectin (1.8 fold, p=0.007) were significantly more abundant in subcutaneous compared to peri-vascular adipose (Table I). Clinical data were used to model associations between clinical characteristics and mediator levels. Age positively correlated with peri-vascular PAI-1 expression (β=0.64, p=0.042), and hyperlipidemia negatively correlated with peri-vascular adipose adiponectin (β=-1.18, p=0.039). Conclusions: While significant similarity was observed between subcutaneous and peri-vascular adipose from leg amputation patients, the differential in adipose derived hormones leptin and adiponectin provides direct human evidence that these tissue compartments hold distinct biologic roles. Further investigation into the unique nature of peri-vascular adipose may provide meaningful guidance in managing peripheral vascular disease.
NEIGHBORHOOD SOCIAL CONTROL AND PERCEPTIONS OF CRIME AND DISORDER IN CONTEMPORARY URBAN CHINA

By drawing on the two streams of Western literature on “neighborhood effects” and perceptions of neighborhood disorder adapted to the distinctive organizational infrastructure of neighborhoods in contemporary urban China, we examine the contextual effects of different forms of neighborhood social control (i.e., collective efficacy, semipublic control, public control, and market-based control) on different types of perceived disorder (i.e., criminal activity, social disorder, physical disorder, and total disorder) across neighborhoods. The analyses are based on data collected in the year 2013 from a survey of approximately 2,500 households in 50 neighborhoods across the city of Tianjin. Collective efficacy as a form of informal control has a significant effect only for perceived social disorder. Public control as measured by the activities of neighborhood police stations has a significant contextual effect on all forms of perceived disorder, whereas the role of market-based control as represented by contracted community services is limited to perceived physical disorder. Finally, semipublic control as measured by the activities of neighborhood committees significantly affects all forms of perceived disorder, but the direction of the effect is positive. We interpret this positive effect with reference to the complex processes surrounding the “translation” of neighborhood disorderly conditions into perceptions of disorder.
The uniqueness and biogeochemical cycling of plant root microbial communities in a floating treatment wetland

Abstract Floating treatment wetlands (FTWs) are an innovative type of phytoremediation technique being used to reduce the impact of excess nutrient loading. Plants hydroponically grown on FTWs take up nutrients from water through their roots. In general microbial communities in the rhizosphere are important for healthy growth and nutrient uptake by plants. Despite most of previous studies focused on the nutrient removal processes, very little is known about microbial communities associated with FTW plant roots. The purpose of this study was to characterize the microbiomes revolving around the submerged roots of FTW in a manmade stormwater pond and to elucidate the source of FTW plant root microbiomes. The microbial communities collected from the plant roots Canna flaccida (golden canna) and Juncus effusus (soft rush), biofilms of plant pot (polyethylene) and floating mat foam (closed-cell urethane), and surrounding water were studied using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. The FTW plant root microbiomes were dominated by Alphaproteobacteria and Cyanobacteria at the class level, and Anabaena, Rhizobium and Rhodobacter at the genus level. Microbial communities of the FTW plant roots showed unique compositions resembling most closely the surrounding water samples while being quite different from the biofilm samples, leading the conclusion that the major source of microbial populations was the surrounding water. However, the dominance of Rhizobium species was only observed in the two plant roots and not recognized in the surrounding water samples, indicating that the FTW roots may selectively shape root microbiomes. Unexpectedly, quite a few groups of microbes were associated with the sulfur cycle. This finding indicates that the oxic-anoxic gradient is formed in the FTW rhizosphere, and this environmental gradient assists to extend the phylogenetic and functional diversities of microorganisms. We anticipate the presence of intrinsic rhizosphere microbiomes and the importance of complex biogeochemical processes that include carbon, sulfur and nitrogen driven by physical activity and chemical releases of FTW plant roots.
They Want What I’ve Got: Self-Esteem and Attribution in Determining Responses to Being Envied

We develop a theoretical model for the interpersonal interaction between the envious and the envied individuals in the workplace. We start our theorizing with the two behaviors on part of the envio...
Novel Rubidium Poly-Nitrogen Materials at High Pressure

First-principles crystal structure search is performed to predict novel rubidium poly-nitrogen materials at high pressure by varying the stoichiometry, i.e., relative quantities of the constituent rubidium and nitrogen atoms. Three compounds of high nitrogen content, RbN5, RbN2, and Rb4N6, are discovered. Rubidium pentazolate (RbN5) becomes thermodynamically stable at pressures above 30 GPa. The charge transfer from Rb to N atoms enables aromaticity in cyclo-N5− while increasing the ionic bonding in the crystal. Rubidium pentazolate can be synthesized by compressing rubidium azide (RbN3) and nitrogen (N2) precursors above 9.42 GPa, and its experimental discovery is aided by calculating the Raman spectrum and identifying the features attributed to N5− modes. The two other interesting compounds, RbN2 containing infinitely long single-bonded nitrogen chains and Rb4N6 consisting of single-bonded N6 hexazine rings, become thermodynamically stable at pressures exceeding 60 GPa. In addition to the compounds with...
Analysis of Yellow Striped Mutants of Zea mays Reveals Novel Loci Contributing to Iron Deficiency Chlorosis.

The micronutrient iron (Fe) is essential for photosynthesis, respiration, and many other processes, but it is only sparingly soluble in aqueous solution, making adequate acquisition by plants a serious challenge. Fe is a limiting factor for plant growth on approximately 30% of the world's arable lands. Moreover, Fe deficiency in humans is a global health issue, affecting 1.62 billion people, or about 25% of the world's population. It is imperative that we gain a better understanding of the mechanisms that plants use to regulate iron homeostasis, since these will be important targets for future biofortification and crop improvement strategies. Grasses and non-grasses have evolved independent mechanisms for primary iron uptake from the soil. The grasses, which include most of the world's staple grains, have evolved a distinct 'chelation' mechanism to acquire iron from the soil. Strong iron chelators called phytosiderophores (PSs) are synthesized by grasses and secreted into the rhizosphere where they bind and solubilize Fe(III). The Fe(III)-PS complex is then taken up into root cells via transporters specific for the Fe(III)-PS complex. In this study, 31 novel, uncharacterized striped maize mutants available through the Maize Genetics Cooperation Stock Center (MGCSC) were analyzed to determine whether their mutant phenotypes are caused by decreased iron. Many of these proved to be either pale yellow or white striped mutants. Complementation tests were performed by crossing the MGCSC mutants to ys1 and ys3 reference mutants. This allowed assignment of 10 ys1 alleles and 4 ys3 alleles among the novel mutants. In addition, four ys∗ mutant lines were identified that are not allelic to either ys1 or ys3. Three of these were characterized as being non-allelic to each other and as having low iron in leaves. These represent new genes involved in iron acquisition by maize, and future cloning of these genes may reveal novel aspects of the grass iron acquisition mechanism.
Ruptured Distal Superior Cerebellar Artery Dissecting Aneurysm Treated with a Flow-diverting Device: Case Report and Review of Literature

Distal fusiform aneurysms of the superior cerebellar artery (SCA) are rare and present several challenges to clinicians, especially when ruptured. While several treatment options are available, including surgical clipping and endovascular coiling, numerous challenges still remain due to the presence of vital neighboring neurovascular structures. In addition, the complications that arise due to the compromise of brainstem perforators make these aneurysms difficult to treat. This case report demonstrates the successful treatment of a ruptured fusiform aneurysm of the SCA with a flow-diverting device. We also conducted a literature review of the use of flow-diverting devices for treating such aneurysms. When choosing a treatment modality for a ruptured aneurysm, clinicians must consider both the patient-specific variables as well as aneurysm morphology. Treatment options including microsurgical clipping, endovascular coiling, and flow diversion carry risks. Therefore, the clinician must decide which option best fits each situation.
Focal and Remote Dysmetabolism in Stroke

Previous reports of emission tomography studies in acute stroke mainly have been concerned with cerebral perfusion and metabolism within the ischemic lesion. Measurements have been made of regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) and regional cerebral oxygen consumption (rCMRO2) and have allowed the definition of the regional oxygen extraction ratio (rOER) in ischemic areas [1, 4, 12].
4D Printing of Actuating Cardiac Tissue

Abstract 4D printing is an emerging technology that enables printing of smart constructs that can transform (e.g., reshape or self-assemble) over time to perform programmed functions. Using a variety of 3D printing techniques, through computer-controlled, layer-by-layer deposition of materials in successive layers, 4D printing creates programmable objects that can respond to external/internal stimuli (e.g., temperature, humidity, etc.) without relying on sensors or chips. In this chapter, we introduce a variety of 4D printing strategies, utilizing different smart materials including temperature-sensitive, electrically-sensitive, and cell-traction force-sensitive materials. We will also explore some of the current applications of 4D printing in creating actuating cardiac tissues.
Usability of a Personal Air Pollution Monitor: Design-Feedback Iterative Cycle Study.

Background: There is considerable evidence that exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) air pollution is associated with a variety of adverse health outcomes. However, true exposure-outcome associations are hampered by measurement issues, including compliance and exposure misclassification. Objective: This paper describes the use of the design-feedback iterative cycle to improve the design and usability of a new portable PM2.5 monitor for use in an epidemiologic study of personal air pollution measures. Methods: In total, 10 adults carried on their person a prefabricated PM2.5 monitor for 1 week over 3 waves of the iterative cycle. At the end of each wave, they participated in a 30-minute moderated focus group and completed 2 validated questionnaires on usability and views on research. The topics addressed included positives and negatives of the monitor, charging and battery life, desired features, and changes to the monitor from each previous wave. They also completed a log to record device wear time each day. The log also provided space to record any issues that may have arisen with the device or for general comments during the week of collection. Results: The major focus group topics included device size, noise, battery and charge time, and method for carrying the device. These topics formed the basis of iterative design changes; by the final cycle, the device was reasonably smaller, quieter, held a longer charge, and was more convenient to carry. System usability scores improved systematically across each wave (median scores of 50-66 on a 100-point scale), as did median daily wear time (approximately 749-789 minutes). Conclusions: Both qualitative and quantitative measures showed an improvement in device usability over the 3 waves. This study demonstrates how the design-feedback iterative cycle can be used to improve the usability of devices manufactured for use in large epidemiologic studies on personal air pollution exposures.
Doing indefinite time: penal confinement and the life-imprisoned offender in Denmark, Finland, and Sweden

Penal confinement in Danish, Finnish, and Swedish prisons has become a topic of growing interest in comparative penal research. While prison sentences in these countries are characterized by reinte...
Shared Memory High Throughput Computing with Apache Arrow

As the barriers to entry in scientific computing have lowered with languages like Python and their libraries, the demand for ever more sophisticated and capable frameworks that provide almost turnkey functionality has grown proportionally (see keras).1For researchers who use the pilot job,2 many-task3 design pattern for high-throughput computing4 on modern systems, the Apache Arrow project [1] with its now included Plasma in-memory object store provides a high-level interface for sharing data structures between processes in a way that requires no serialization or copying of that data.This poster outlines a common scenario in which a constraint is induced by the way memory is managed. The direct sharing of memory by a common middle data layer allows for accelerated workflows that can operate at a more rapid cadence. A real-world example is provided; the goal is to raise awareness in facilitators at other major research computing centers who work with users to architect similar such high-throughput data pipelines.
Obtaining psychological embeddings through joint kernel and metric learning

Psychological embeddings provide a powerful formalism for characterizing human-perceived similarity among members of a stimulus set. Obtaining high-quality embeddings can be costly due to algorithm design, software deployment, and participant compensation. This work aims to advance state-of-the-art embedding techniques and provide a comprehensive software package that makes obtaining high-quality psychological embeddings both easy and relatively efficient. Contributions are made on four fronts. First, the embedding procedure allows multiple trial configurations (e.g., triplets) to be used for collecting similarity judgments from participants. For example, trials can be configured to collect triplet comparisons or to sort items into groups. Second, a likelihood model is provided for three classes of similarity kernels allowing users to easily infer the parameters of their preferred model using gradient descent. Third, an active selection algorithm is provided that makes data collection more efficient by proposing comparisons that provide the strongest constraints on the embedding. Fourth, the likelihood model allows the specification of group-specific attention weight parameters. A series of experiments are included to highlight each of these contributions and their impact on converging to a high-quality embedding. Collectively, these incremental improvements provide a powerful and complete set of tools for inferring psychological embeddings. The relevant tools are available as the Python package PsiZ, which can be cloned from GitHub ( https://github.com/roads/psiz ).
Why Do Intravascular Schistosomes Coat Themselves in Glycolytic Enzymes

Schistosomes are intravascular parasitic helminths (blood flukes) that infect more than 200 million people globally. Proteomic analysis of the tegument (skin) of these worms has revealed the surprising presence of glycolytic enzymes on the parasite's external surface. Immunolocalization data as well as enzyme activity displayed by live worms confirm that functional glycolytic enzymes are indeed expressed at the host-parasite interface. Since these enzymes are traditionally considered to function intracellularly to drive glycolysis, in an extracellular location they are hypothesized to engage in novel "moonlighting" functions such as immune modulation and blood clot dissolution that promote parasite survival. For instance, several glycolytic enzymes can interact with plasminogen and promote its activation to the thrombolytic plasmin; some can inhibit complement function; some induce B cell proliferation or macrophage apoptosis. Several pathogenic bacteria and protists also express glycolytic enzymes externally, suggesting that moonlighting functions of extracellular glycolytic enzymes can contribute broadly to pathogen virulence. Also see the video abstract here https://youtu.be/njtWZ2y3k_I.
Interprofessional Education and Collaboration

Interprofessional collaborative practice among healthcare professionals is instrumental to the delivery of quality, safe, patient-centered care. Interprofessional education is not exclusive to students but also professionals in practice. This chapter provides the foundational knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed for effective interprofessional collaborative practice involving nurses, radiologists, and radiologic technologists to foster better patient outcomes. Resources and strategies to promote the development of efficient teams are discussed with the aim of transforming the delivery of healthcare.
Ste24: An Integral Membrane Protein Zinc Metalloprotease with Provocative Structure and Emergent Biology.

Abstract Ste24, an integral membrane protein zinc metalloprotease, is found in every kingdom of eukaryotes. It was discovered approximately 20 years ago by yeast genetic screens identifying it as a factor responsible for processing the yeast mating a-factor pheromone. In animals, Ste24 processes prelamin A, a component of the nuclear lamina; mutations in the human ortholog of Ste24 diminish its activity, giving rise to genetic diseases of accelerated aging (progerias). Additionally, lipodystrophy, acquired from the standard highly active antiretroviral therapy used to treat AIDS patients, likely results from off-target interactions of HIV (aspartyl) protease inhibitor drugs with Ste24. Ste24 possesses a novel “α-barrel” structure, consisting of a ring of seven transmembrane α-helices enclosing a large (> 12,000 A3) interior volume that contains the active-site and substrate-binding region; this “membrane-interior reaction chamber” is unprecedented in integral membrane protein structures. Additionally, the surface of the membrane-interior reaction chamber possesses a strikingly large negative electrostatic surface potential, adding additional “functional mystery.” Recent publications implicate Ste24 as a key factor in several endoplasmic reticulum processes, including the unfolded protein response, a cellular stress response of the endoplasmic reticulum, and removal of misfolded proteins from the translocon. Ste24, with its provocative structure, enigmatic mechanism, and recently emergent new biological roles including “translocon unclogger” and (non-enyzmatic) broad-spectrum viral restriction factor, presents far differently than before 2016, when it was viewed as a “CAAX protease” responsible for cleavage of prenylated (farnesylated or geranylgeranylated) substrates. The emphasis of this review is on Ste24 of the “Post-CAAX-Protease Era.”
Chapter 6 – Muscular Biopolymers

Prospectus This chapter discusses properties and characteristics of ionic biopolymer-metal nanocomposites (IBMCs) as biomimetic multifunctional distributed nanoactuators, nanosensors, nanotransducers, and artificial muscles. After presenting some fundamental properties of biomimetic distributed nanosensing and nanoactuation of ionic polymer-metal composites (IPMCs) and IBMCs, the discussion extends to some recent advances in the manufacturing techniques and 3-D fabrication of IBMCs and some recent modeling and simulations, sensing and transduction, and product development. This chapter also presents procedures on how biopolymers such as chitosan and perfluorinated ionic polymers can be combined to make new nanocomposites with actuation, energy harvesting, and sensing capabilities. Chitin-based chitosan and ionic polymeric networks containing conjugated ions that can be redistributed by an imposed electric field and consequently act as distributed nanosensors, nanoactuators, and artificial muscles are also discussed. The manufacturing methodologies are briefly discussed, and the fundamental properties and characteristics of biopolymeric muscles as artificial muscles are presented. Two ionic models based on linear irreversible thermodynamics as well as charge dynamics of the underlying sensing and actuation mechanisms are also presented. Intercalation of biopolymers and ionic polymers and subsequent chemical plating of them with a noble metal by a reduction-oxidation (redox) operation is also reported and the properties of the new product are briefly discussed.
Promoting kindergarten readiness using early intervention art therapy with Latinx farmworker children

Abstract Latinx farmworker children are a vulnerable and disparate health population that confronts a myriad of threats to their emotional and behavioral health and subsequent development. Art therapy provides a potentially valuable and efficient strategy for preventing young children's mental health problems by providing a structured and engaging outlet for resolving the emotional sequelae of chronic adversity. A narrative-focused and trauma-processing art therapy program was implemented with 14 children aged between 3–5 years over 12 sessions in a bi-weekly format within a rural migrant head start program. We used a simple single group pre/posttest design to examine the impact of this intervention and saw improvement in all developmental areas using a specifically designed art therapy observation measure (ATC-PC) and a routine early development measure (LAP-3). However, it was unclear whether these changes were attributable to the art therapy program alone. Therefore, the findings of this pilot study warrant replication at a wider-scale. Additionally, the ATC-PC was shown to be a promising observation tool to document progress in art therapy with young children that also requires wider implementation and further testing.
Coping with Complexity

IBM User Engineering provides a process that guides teams though a complex project. It uses CASE tools to help to manage information. It includes abstraction paths that help the team to understand the whole problem before they divide it. User Engineering then leads the team to the solution; providing many heuristics to guide progress.
Bronchoalveolar Lavage and Plasma Cathelicidin Response to 25-Hydroxy Vitamin D Supplementation: A Pilot Study.

Introduction Cathelicidin is a vitamin D-regulated, antimicrobial peptide involved in the innate immune response of the airways. Reduced plasma cathelicidin concentrations are independently associated with worse pulmonary outcomes in current and former smokers. This study aimed to determine whether oral vitamin D supplementation in vitamin D-deficient current smokers increases plasma and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cathelicidin levels. Methods Vitamin D-deficient (25-hydroxy vitamin D [25-OH vitamin D] <20 ng/ml) smokers (n=17) underwent collection of plasma and BAL for cathelicidin and 25-OH vitamin D measurements before and after 8 weeks of oral supplementation with 50,000 IU vitamin D3 weekly. Differences between baseline and 8-week levels of cathelicidin and 25-OH vitamin D in blood and BAL were assessed along with correlations between serum 25-OH vitamin D, plasma cathelicidin, and BAL cathelicidin. Results At baseline, there was no correlation between BAL and plasma cathelicidin. There was a significant increase in 25-OH vitamin D (median 17.0 to 43.3 ng/mL, p<0.001) after 8 weeks of vitamin D supplementation. There was no change in plasma cathelicidin (p=0.86), BAL cathelicidin (p=0.31), or BAL 25-OH vitamin D (p=0.89). There was no correlation between serum 25-OH vitamin D and either BAL or plasma cathelicidin post-supplementation. Conclusions Oral vitamin D supplementation, while increasing serum 25-OH vitamin D levels, does not increase plasma or BAL cathelicidin levels in vitamin D-deficient, active smokers. The lack of increased BAL cathelicidin may be explained by multiple factors related to dosing, smoking effects, or putative mechanisms of engagement. Future studies are needed to determine the effects of vitamin D supplementation on lung and blood functional activity.
Introduction to Teaching Science with Three-dimensional Images of Dinosaur Footprints from Cristo Rey, New Mexico

Abstract. In this paper we discuss the use of three-dimensional (3-D) imagery and virtual field trips to teach lower level (i.e. K-14 level) geoscience courses. In particular, 3-D pdfs can be used to either prepare students for, or completely replace, a field trip when logistical problems make the actual trip too difficult to be effective or when some students need an alternative accommodation. Three dimensional images can replace or supplement classroom activities, such as the identification of rocks and minerals from hand samples or the identification of geologic structures from 2-D photographs and limited field observations. Students can also become involved in data collection and processing to further their understanding of photogrammetry and visualization. The use of 3-D imagery can make additional time available to instructors to cover more advanced topics and teach students more about the role of science in geologic research. We use an example from Cristo Rey, New Mexico, where dinosaur footprints and tracks are present but difficult to see in many cases and often in places that are hard to access for many people. At this site, approximately 10,000 photographs were collected and processed as 3-D images to show one approximately 72 m2 area of known footprints. However, we also conducted some very simple digital manipulations of the images that allowed us to identify new footprints and tracks that were not apparent when viewed in the field. The photographs and 3-D images have been donated to the Insights museum that owns the fossil site and they are now being used to develop educational materials and lessons for the nearby communities.
Enhancement in electrical and optical properties of field-effect passivated GaN blue light emitting diodes

This paper investigates the field-effect sidewall surface passivation of III-Nitride blue light emitting diodes (LEDs) using ultrathin films of Al2O3 and ZnO grown using atomic layer deposition. A large density of negative fixed charges existing at the sidewall surface of the passivation layer leads to formation of an electric field at the interface of the passivation layer and the GaN layer. This repels the free negative charge carriers from getting close to the surface of the semiconductor and being trapped there. It also reduces the non-radiative recombination of these charge carriers and eventually leads to enhancement in electrical and optical properties of these devices. Electrical measurements demonstrate a significant decrease in the leakage current and the ideality factor in addition to a notable increase in the parasitic shunt resistance of the field-effect-passivated GaN LEDs compared to non-passivated devices. The field-effect passivation can be especially useful for smaller LED die size. In such device, the effect of high leakage current at the edges of the device is more detrimental to its performance of the device. The proposed approach can further eliminate the shunt conduction paths along the sidewalls of the LED and increase the efficiency of the devices.
Enzymatically Sensitive Fiber-Forming Bioresorbable Polymers

This chapter reviews the fiber-forming resorbable polymers that are sensitive to degradation by enzymes. Mechanical properties, applications, and the mechanism of enzymatic degradation have been discussed.
The Iowa Plan of Physical Education

(1943). The Iowa Plan of Physical Education. The Journal of Health and Physical Education: Vol. 14, No. 1, pp. 34-62.
Telecommunications market structure in the USA: The effects of deregulation and divestiture

Abstract AT&T divestiture of its 22 operating companies in January 1984 ended the world's largest vertically integrated channel of telecommunications distribution. At the same time, customer premise equipment sales were deregulated in the USA by the FCC. This article explores the background policies which led to the changes, and examines the marketing opportunities which have arisen, together with likely future structural changes. The author concludes that the network will become more competitive and more responsive to customers' unique equipment needs.
Health information generation and utilization for informed decision-making in equitable health service management: the case of Kenya Partnership for Health program.

The Kenya Partnership for Health (KPH) program began in 1999, and is currently one of the 12 field projects participating in the WHO's 'Towards Unity for Health initiative' implemented to develop partnership synergies in support of the Primary Health Care (PHC) approach [1]. This paper illustrates how P rogram-linked I nformation M anagement by I ntegrative-participatory R esearch A pproach (PIMIRA) as practised under KPH has been implemented within Trans-Nzoia District, Kenya to enhance community-based health initiatives. It shows how this model is strategically being scaled-up from one community to another in the management of political, social, cultural and economic determinants (barriers and enhancers) of health. Target rural communities in the development of a community-based health information management and feedback initiatives that can provide insights on the social, cultural, political and economic determinants of health for utilization in informed health service management. 1. Cues for health seeking and health service utilization are determined by the social, cultural, political and economic factors as seen by the individual and as defined by the community but not due to the pathological nature of the illness. 2. Establishment of community-based health surveillance and health action initiatives as the best practices in transferring health as a resource that can be 'owned and guarded' by the community. 3. Establishment of Healthy Villages Initiative (HVI) through which health service delivery and scale-up can be sustained at the community level. 4. Provision of actionable health information necessary for health planning and evaluation of preventive health programs thorough PIMIRA. It has been realized that for every one person who visits a health facility for medication, there are nine others who had the same condition but sought health care from other sources including self-medication and five others who never sought health care. Innovative means of involving the community in health information management and utilization such as PIMIRA are hence the best ways of guaranteeing equitable delivery of health services that are accessible and sustainable by the community.
Sterilization of Teeth by Gamma Radiation

Clinical simulations and restorative materials research and development conducted in vitro require the use of large numbers of extracted teeth. The simultaneous need for infection control procedures and minimal alterations of structure and properties of the tissue prompted this study of gamma irradiation as a method to eliminate microbes associated with extracted teeth and their storage solutions. Evaluations of potential change in structure of dentin were conducted in terms of permeability, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and optical properties. The dose required for sterilization by gamma irradiation was established by means of a tooth model inoculated with Bacillus subtilis (10(8) organisms/mL). Sterilization occurred at a dose above 173 krad with use of a Cesium (Cs137) radiation source. Gamma irradiation did not affect permeability of crown segments of dentin. A comparative evaluation of the effects of four sterilization methods on dentin disks was based on FTIR and ultraviolet-visible-near infrared (UV/VIS/NIR) spectra before and after sterilization by (1) gamma irradiation; (2) ethylene oxide; (3) dry heat; and (4) autoclaving. No detectable changes were found with gamma irradiation, but all other methods introduced some detectable change in the spectra. This suggests that common methods of sterilization alter the structure of the dentin, but gamma irradiation shows promise as a method which both is effective and introduces no detectable changes as measured by FTIR, UV/VIS/NIR, or permeability.
No Kingdom of God for Softies? or, What Was Paul Really Saying? 1 Corinthians 6:9–10 in Context

The search for biblical texts on “homosexuals” and “homosexual activity” presents a particularly prickly problem of contextual reading and interpretation. It involves, among other things, a clash o...
Saddle-point shapes and fission barriers of rotating nuclei

This article reviews the work relating to the development of a rotating liquid drop model together with a chronology of its confrontation with the experimental interpretation of data. It is brought out that the zero temperature rotating finite range model is quite successful in the interpretation of data obtained from heavy ion-induced reactions.
Possible dual-charge-carrier mechanism of surface conduction on gamma-alumina

We cast a dual-charge-carrier model of surface conductance on A-alumina in mathematical form. We then carry out first-principles calculations for various possible atomic-scale structures of the low- and hightemperature charge-carrier interactions with the A-alumina surface to estimate the values of the energy parameters in the dual-charge-carrier model. By comparing the values of these energy parameters as determined by first-principles calculations to those obtained by fitting the mathematical form of the dual-charge-carrier model to experimental data, new insight is gained into the nature of the charge-carrier species. The results support the hypothesis that the intrinsic hydrogen content and surface moisture of A-alumina provide a possible explanation of the observed thermal dependence of surface conductance.
An Investigation of Ejection, Mixing, and Suction Mechanisms in an Open-Ended Horizontal Annulus

The basic features of unsteady three-dimensional buoyancy-driven convection in an open-ended cavity are numerically investigated in this work and the effects of far field boundary conditions on the convective flow and heat transfer are analyzed. The strong coupling effects between the flow inside the annulus and that of the surroundings are shown to include three physical and fundamental transport mechanisms. These are identified as the 'ejection,' 'mixing,' and 'suction' mechanisms. The crucial importance of the interaction among these different mechanisms in directly influencing the fluid mechanics and heat transfer inside open-ended geometries will be examined. The numerical results indicate that the amount of energy lost through the aperture plane increases considerably with an increase in the Rayleigh number. It is important to note that while a number of geometries can be effectively represented as their two-dimensional counterparts, such as the work of Caltagirone, the open-ended annulus geometry cannot be approximated by any type of two-dimensional structure.
Large-capacity, long-haul optical transport network based on 100 Gb/s/ch no-guard-interval coherent optical OFDM technology

Recent progress on 100 Gb/s/ch transmission that can accommodate 100 GbE signals transparently is described. Over 10 Tb/s transmission can be achieved over 7,200 km using no-guard-interval coherent optical OFDM and digital signal processing technologies.
An enthalpic study of the thermal decomposition of unconfined triaminotrinitrobenzene

The thermal decomposition of triaminotrinitrobenzene (TATB) under unconfined conditions has been studied by isothermal calorimetric techniques using a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) between 578 and 630 K. The decomposition is exothermic over the entire range. Between 615 < T < 630 K, the isothermal decomposition data indicates perhaps as many as five distinct reaction stages. Activation energies for each of the five steps are calculated by fitting the data to established solid state kinetic rate-laws.
How protein materials balance strength, robustness, and adaptability

Proteins form the basis of a wide range of biological materials such as hair, skin, bone, spider silk, or cells, which play an important role in providing key functions to biological systems. The focus of this article is to discuss how protein materials are capable of balancing multiple, seemingly incompatible properties such as strength, robustness, and adaptability. To illustrate this, we review bottom-up materiomics studies focused on the mechanical behavior of protein materials at multiple scales, from nano to macro. We focus on alpha-helix based intermediate filament proteins as a model system to explain why the utilization of hierarchical structural features is vital to their ability to combine strength, robustness, and adaptability. Experimental studies demonstrating the activation of angiogenesis, the growth of new blood vessels, are presented as an example of how adaptability of structure in biological tissue is achieved through changes in gene expression that result in an altered material structure. We analyze the concepts in light of the universality and diversity of the structural makeup of protein materials and discuss the findings in the context of potential fundamental evolutionary principles that control their nanoscale structure. We conclude with a discussion of multiscale science in biology and de novo materials design.
Fusing spatial resource heterogeneity with a competition-colonization trade-off in model communities

Two commonly cited mechanisms of multispecies coexistence in patchy environments are spatial heterogeneity in competitive abilities caused by variation in resources and a competition–colonization trade-off. In this paper, a model that fuses these mechanisms together is presented and analyzed. The model suggests that spatial variation in resource ratios can lead to multispecies coexistence, but this mechanism by itself is weak when the number of resources for which species compete is small. However, spatial resource heterogeneity is a powerful mechanism for multispecies coexistence when it acts synergistically with a competition–colonization trade-off. The model also shows how resource supply can control the competitive balance between species that are weak competitors but superior colonizers and strong competitors/inferior colonizers. This provides additional theoretical support for a possible explanation of empirically observed hump-shaped relationships between species diversity and ecological productivity.
Symptom severity and cognitive impairment in chronically hospitalised geriatric patients with affective disorders.

BACKGROUND Affective disorders typically have a better outcome than schizophrenia, although recent evidence suggests that some patients with affective disorder have a relatively poor outcome, with cognitive impairments and persistent symptomatology. METHOD Fifty chronically hospitalised geriatric patients with mood disorders (major depression or bipolar disorder) were compared on the clinical symptoms and aspects of cognitive impairment with 308 geriatric schizophrenic patients who were hospitalised at the same institution. The two samples did not differ in current age or in premorbid education level, but the affective patients had a later age of onset and more females in the sample. RESULTS There were no overall differences in cognitive functioning between the groups, although the clinical symptom profiles resembled those seen in better outcome patients. CONCLUSIONS Cognitive impairment is present in poor-outcome patients with affective disorders as well as schizophrenia, suggesting that cognitive impairments predict poor outcome across psychiatric disorders and not just in schizophrenia.
Characterization of thermophilic actinomycetes isolated from residential heating and humidification systems

Abstract Seven thermophilic actinomycete isolates from heating-humidification systems of individuals with definite or suspected "environment-associated" hypersensitivity chest disease were characterized. Five of the isolates were Thermoactinomyces sp. , 4 exhibiting characteristics identical to those of Thermoactinomyces vulgaris . One isolate was a Micromonospora sp. on the basis of biochemical cell wall composition, and another morphologically resembled Promicromonospora. Two additional thermophilic actinomycete isolates, Micropolyspora faeni , strain A-94, known to be an important source of "farmer's lung" antigen, and a newly described species, Thermoactinomyces sacchari , the most important source of "moldy bagasse" antigen, were also characterized. These 2 isolates were completely different from the home heater-humidifier isolates in gross and microscopic characteristics. Results of "metabolic" and "cellular" antigenic analyses, using specific hyperimmune rabbit antisera, revealed shared "cellular" and "metabolic" antigens among all home humidifier isolates, but not between these isolates and M faeni . Thus, the testing of human sera against any single heating-humidifier Thermoactinomyces sp. would likely detect the presence of precipitins against many closely related strains, but not against M. faeni .
Endovascular treatment of a chronically occluded limb of endograft with combination TNK pharmacological and EKOS thrombolytic catheter system

Arterial occlusion is a common and sometimes devastating medical condition related to peripheral vascular and cardiovascular disease. These patients are at severe risk of limb loss and death. Those patients with embolic phenomena are at significantly higher mortality risk than those with thrombosis. Catheter directed therapies have been used routinely for restoration of perfusion to a limb removing the thrombosis or embolic material. Limb thrombosis following endovascular graft placement is a known complication occurring within the first year of the endograft. In many institutions, endovascular treatment of aortic limb occlusions has become the initial management for acute occlusions. We describe the endovascular treatment of a chronic occluded limb utilizing a combination of pharmacological and mechanical thrombolysis using the new ultrasound enhanced EKOS catheter system. Endovascular specialists should be aware that chronically occluded endograft limbs can be successfully treated in the endovascular suite with the EKOS system without requiring more invasive surgical therapies.
Body image scores and varieties of consciousness.

Summary Dreams, depersonalization experiences, daydreams, and autobiographies were compared in regard to barrier, penetration, and neutral imagery and action scores. Significant differences were found between these varieties of consciousness on all three scores. Only barrier scores showed significant differences between males and females.
Sampling and recruitment in multilevel studies among marginalized urban populations: the IMPACT studies.

Illicit drug use in urban settings is a major public health problem. A range of individual level factors are known to influence drug use and its consequences, and a number of recent studies have suggested that the neighborhood in which an individual lives may also play a role. However, studies seeking to identify neighborhood-level determinants of drug use, particularly among marginalized urban populations, need to overcome significant challenges, particularly in the area of sampling and recruitment. One key issue is defining functional neighborhoods that are relevant to local residents. Another arises from the need to sample a representative or even a diverse population when studying marginalized groups such as illicit drug users. These are common problems that raise particular challenges when both need to be addressed in the same study. For example, many sampling approaches for neighborhood-level studies have included some form of random sample of households, but this may systematically overlook marginalized populations. On the other hand, the sampling approaches commonly used in studies of hidden populations such as chain referral, snow ball, and more recently, respondent-driven sampling, typically expand beyond a geographic “neighborhood.” We describe the organization and rationale for the IMPACT Studies in New York City as a case illustration on how such issues may be addressed.
Revisiting Human Nature: A Thomistic Rationale for the Necessity of Rhetoric

In addition to rhetorical theorists, historians of rhetoric mistakenly believe that Aristotle carefully articulated how the use of rhetoric may be thought of as being human. Here, insofar as I believe he left this work undone, I offer an ontological framework to conceive of rhetoric as intrinsic to human nature, using the essentialist paradigm espoused by Aristotle and expanded upon by St. Thomas Aquinas as a theoretical foundation. A prefatory theory is proposed that rhetoric might be thought of as being natural for its teleological orientation toward action.
Design of Low Wear Polymer Composites

Multifunctional tribological coatings rely on combinations of materials to improve properties, such as lubricity and wear resistance. For example, some polymer composites exhibit favorable tribological performance as solid lubricants. Here, classical molecular dynamics simulations are used to investigate the tribological behaviors of a mixed system of polyethylene (PE) sliding over polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) with the results compared with the sliding of the relevant homogeneous systems. In particular, oriented cross-linked PTFE and PE surfaces are slid in several relative sliding directions such that the surface chains are in-registry or out-of-registry and at various applied normal loads. The simulation results quantify the ways in which the mixed PTFE–PE system behaves differently than either of the homogeneous systems due to the lack of interlocking phases at the interface. These findings are compared with experimental production of polyetheretherketone (PEEK)–PTFE composites that have unusually low wear rates of 7.0 × 10−8 mm3/Nm, coupled with a steady, low friction coefficient of μ = 0.11 for over two million sliding cycles. The simulation results explain the atomic-scale origins of the frictional properties of this composite.