cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Synergistic effects of tropical cyclones on forest ecosystems: a global synthesis

Tropical cyclones are large-scale strong wind disturbance events that occur frequently in tropical and subtropical coastal regions and often bring catastrophic physical destruction to ecosystems and economic disruption to societies along their paths. Major tropical cyclones can infrequently move into the midaltitudes and inland areas. Ecologically, tropical cyclones have profound impacts on diversity, structure, succession and function of forest ecosystems. The ecological effects are both dramatic and subtle. The dramatic effects can be visible, noticeable and to some extent predictable over the short-term and relatively well documented in the literature. However, the subtle effects are often invisible, complex and at smaller scale relatively unpredictable in the long-term. Many factors, meteorologic, topographic and biologic, simultaneously interact to influence the complexity of patterns of damage and dynamics of recovery. I present a global synthesis on the effects of tropical cyclones on forest ecosystems and the complexity of forest responses, with particular attention on the response to large hurricanes in the neotropics and the temperate North America, and strong typhoons on the subtropical and temperate forests in the East and Southeast Asia. Four major aspects provide on organizational framework for this synthesis: (1) consistent damage patterns, (2) factors that influence response patterns and predict damage risks, (3) complexity of forest responses and recovery, and (4) the long-term effects. This review reveals highly variable and complex effects of tropical cyclones on forest ecosystems. A deep understanding of the synergistic effects of tropical cyclones is essential for effective forest management and biodiversity conservation.
Dorsal anterior cingulotomy and anterior capsulotomy for severe, refractory obsessive-compulsive disorder: a systematic review of observational studies

OBJECT The object of this study was to perform a systematic review, according to Preferred Reporting Items of Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) and Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) guidelines, of the clinical efficacy and adverse effect profile of dorsal anterior cingulotomy compared with anterior capsulotomy for the treatment of severe, refractory obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). METHODS The authors included studies comparing objective clinical measures before and after cingulotomy or capsulotomy (surgical and radiosurgical) in patients with OCD. Only papers reporting the most current follow-up data for each group of investigators were included. Studies reporting results on patients undergoing one or more procedures other than cingulotomy or capsulotomy were excluded. Case reports and studies with a mean follow-up shorter than 12 months were excluded. Clinical response was defined in terms of a change in the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS) score. The authors searched MEDLINE, PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Knowledge through October 2013. English and non-English articles and abstracts were reviewed. RESULTS Ten studies involving 193 participants evaluated the length of follow-up, change in the Y-BOCS score, and postoperative adverse events (AEs) after cingulotomy (n = 2 studies, n = 81 participants) or capsulotomy (n = 8 studies, n = 112 participants). The average time to the last follow-up was 47 months for cingulotomy and 60 months for capsulotomy. The mean reduction in the Y-BOCS score at 12 months' follow-up was 37% for cingulotomy and 55% for capsulotomy. At the last follow-up, the mean reduction in Y-BOCS score was 37% for cingulotomy and 57% for capsulotomy. The average full response rate to cingulotomy at the last follow-up was 41% (range 38%-47%, n = 2 studies, n = 51 participants), and to capsulotomy was 54% (range 37%-80%, n = 5 studies, n = 50 participants). The rate of transient AEs was 14.3% across cingulotomy studies (n = 116 procedures) and 56.2% across capsulotomy studies (n = 112 procedures). The rate of serious or permanent AEs was 5.2% across cingulotomy studies and 21.4% across capsulotomy studies. CONCLUSIONS This systematic review of the literature supports the efficacy of both dorsal anterior cingulotomy and anterior capsulotomy in this highly treatment-refractory population. The observational nature of available data limits the ability to directly compare these procedures. Controlled or head-to-head studies are necessary to identify differences in efficacy or AEs and may lead to the individualization of treatment recommendations.
Age-Based Ratings, Content Designations, and Television Content: Is There a Problem?

An analysis of 9 week-long samples of prime-time network programming broadcast between the fall of 1997 and the fall of 2003 found that more than 8 out of 10 programs were labeled with an age-based rating (TV-G, TV-PG, TV-14, or TV-MA), whereas fewer than 4 in 10 programs were also labeled with content-based ratings (V, S, L, or D). Although programs with age- and content-based ratings accurately reflected sexual and violent content, a sizable number of programs without content-based ratings also had sexual and violent content. Ratings provide parents with incomplete information on which to base viewing decisions.
The Cytochondria of Cardiac and Skeletal Muscle

Publisher Summary The principal intracytoplasmic form of muscle mitochondria is rod shaped and irregular. The mitochondria of muscle are easily stained by the variety of techniques peculiar to mitochondrial staining, such as the procedures of Regaud, Altman, and Benda, and by Baker's method. The absence of structural membranes would bring the matrix of the mitochondrion into contiguity with the sarcoplasm and the adjacent myofibrillae. In transverse sections of skeletal muscle an interpenetration of myofibrillary substance and mitochondrial matrix is demonstrated. In addition to the approximation by contact, the mitochondria are linked to both the myofibrillae and the sarcosomes by delicate reticular strands. The ability of the muscle cyclophorase from both cardiac and skeletal muscles to oxidize all the citric acid substrates catalytically is not precisely paralleled by the mitochondria in pure suspension. There is sluggish citrate oxidation in particular in the cardiac mitochondria and some lag in skeletal muscle. This has been associated with diminution in the apparent isocitric acid dehydrogenase activity in mitochondria, because most of the activity of this enzyme observed in homogenates is recovered in the supernatant fraction.
The Perceived Aversiveness of Death Related Events in Depressed and Non-Depressed Individuals

It was hypothesized that depressives would rate death related events as more aversive than appropriate control groups. Ratings of aversiveness (3-point scale) were obtained from depressed patients ...
Differential Entropic Clustering of Multivariate Gaussians

Gaussian data is pervasive and many learning algorithms (e.g., k-means) model their inputs as a single sample drawn from a multivariate Gaussian. However, in many real-life settings, each input object is best described by multiple samples drawn from a multivariate Gaussian. Such data can arise, for example, in a movie review database where each movie is rated by several users, or in time-series domains such as sensor networks. Here, each input can be naturally described by both a mean vector and covariance matrix which parameterize the Gaussian distribution. In this paper, we consider the problem of clustering such input objects, each represented as a multivariate Gaussian. We formulate the problem using an information theoretic approach and draw several interesting theoretical connections to Bregman divergences and also Bregman matrix divergences. We evaluate our method across several domains, including synthetic data, sensor network data, and a statistical debugging application.
Intravascular Ultrasound—Guided Vena Cava Filter Placement:

PURPOSE To report a technique for the insertion of an inferior vena cava (IVC) filter under intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) guidance. TECHNIQUE Using a Seldinger technique, a single groin puncture provides the access for IVUS interrogation of the IVC. After the anatomy is defined with IVUS, the same guidewire is used for percutaneous IVC filter insertion. Intraoperative fluoroscopy, used as a backup, corroborates the proposed insertion location before deployment of the device. Postoperative flat-plate abdominal radiographs are used to confirm satisfactory position. IVC filters have been successfully placed in 9 patients with no complications related to IVUS-guided insertion. CONCLUSIONS Intraluminal IVC interrogation using IVUS is ideally suited for the proper deployment of an IVC filter. The deployment of IVC filters under IVUS has the potential to further simplify an established therapy for deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.
The democratic party in maine

“Thirty-two state central committemen, a few score town councillors, an occasional mayor, a sprinkling of rustic selection and assessors, and several thousand hereditary voters without a program and almost without a hope-such is the party of Jefferson in the Pine Tree State”.
The Phenetics-Cladistics Controversy: A Personal View

The larger issues concerning the relative merits of phenetics and cladistics as philosophies of classification have already been taken up by the major lecturers of this morning’s session. I would briefly like to add my own, personal, and probably quite idiosyncratic views of the continuing contest of ideas and methodologies.
Abstract W P96: Optogenetic Neuronal Stimulation Enhances Neurotrophin Expression in the Contralesional Motor Cortex After Stroke

Objective: Functional recovery after stroke has been observed and is currently attributed to both brain remodeling and plasticity. One form of cortical reorganization involves the balance of interhemispheric interactions between ipsilesional and contralesional cortex. Stimulation of ipsilesional primary motor cortex (iM1) has been shown to be beneficial, however, the role of the contralesional M1 (cM1) remains controversial. Recently we showed that optogenetic stimulations of iM1 post-stroke promote functional recovery. In this study, we investigate the role of contralesional cortex in recovery by optogenetically stimulating iM1 or cM1 and examine the involvement of activity-dependent neurotrophins. Methods: Thy-1-ChR2-YFP line-18 transgenic male mice were used. Mice underwent stereotaxic surgery to implant a fiber cannula in either iM1 or cM1, followed by an intraluminal middle cerebral artery suture occlusion. Optogenetic stimulation began at day5 post-stroke and continued until day14 post-stroke. Sensorimotor behavior tests were used to assess their recovery at day 0, 2, 7, 10 and 14 post-stroke. Mice were sacrificed at day15 post-stroke and neurotrophin expressions were examined using quantitative PCR. Results: Repeated iM1 stimulations promoted functional recovery at day14 post-stroke, with improved motor performance on the rotating beam test (p<0.01). Real-time PCR revealed significant increases of neurotrophin expressions in contralesional M1 at day15 post-stroke, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) (p<0.05), nerve growth factor (NGF) (p<0.05) and neurotrophin 3 (NTF3) (p<0.05). BDNF and NTF3 expression were also significantly increased in the contralesional S1 of stimulated mice (p<0.05). Conclusion: Our data suggest that activity-dependent neurotrophins in the contralesional cortex may be an important mechanism mediating stroke recovery. Current studies include specific stimulation and inhibition of the iM1 or cM1 post-stroke to elucidate the neurocircuitry mediating stroke recovery. In addition, the expression of neurotrophins will be examined in these studies to elucidate their role in the recovery process.
Dopaminergic genetic polymorphisms predict rule-based category learning

Dopaminergic genes play an important role in cognitive function. DRD2 and DARPP-32 dopamine receptor gene polymorphisms affect striatal dopamine binding potential, and the Val158Met single-nucleotide polymorphism of the COMT gene moderates dopamine availability in the pFC. Our study assesses the role of these gene polymorphisms on performance in two rule-based category learning tasks. Participants completed unidimensional and conjunctive rule-based tasks. In the unidimensional task, a rule along a single stimulus dimension can be used to distinguish category members. In contrast, a conjunctive rule utilizes a combination of two dimensions to distinguish category members. DRD2 C957T TT homozygotes outperformed C allele carriers on both tasks, and DARPP-32 AA homozygotes outperformed G allele carriers on both tasks. However, we found an interaction between COMT and task type where Met allele carriers outperformed Val homozygotes in the conjunctive rule task, but both groups performed equally well in the unidimensional task. Thus, striatal dopamine binding may play a critical role in both types of rule-based tasks, whereas prefrontal dopamine binding is important for learning more complex conjunctive rule tasks. Modeling results suggest that striatal dopaminergic genes influence selective attention processes whereas cortical genes mediate the ability to update complex rule representations.
Differential arterial baroreflex regulation of renal, lumbar, and adrenal sympathetic nerve activity in the rat

Lumbar (LSNA), renal (RSNA), or adrenal sympathetic nerve activity (ASNA) is most commonly used as an index of sympathetic nerve activity in investigations of arterial baroreflex control in the rat. Although differential regulation of sympathetic outputs to different organs has been extensively studied, no direct and simultaneous comparisons of the full range of baroreflex reactivity have been described for these sympathetic outputs. Therefore, we compared steady-state sigmoidal baroreflex stimulus-response curves (via phenylephrine-nitroprusside infusion) for RSNA recorded simultaneously with LSNA or ASNA in urethan-chloralose-anesthetized male Sprague-Dawley rats. Characteristics of the baroreflex curves differed significantly between all three sympathetic outputs. ASNA exhibited the greatest range of baroreflex regulation, the highest upper level of activity, and the widest distribution of the gain over a broad range of mean arterial pressure (MAP). RSNA exhibited greater gain than LSNA. LSNA showed the smallest range and maximal inhibition in comparison to other sympathetic outputs. However, all three nerves responded similarly to baroreflex stimulation and unloading in the range in MAP close to the operating point. We conclude that baroreflex regulation of sympathetic activity shows wide regional variability in gain, range, and maximal inhibition. Therefore, the entire stimulus-response relationship should be considered in comparing regional sympathetic responses.
Rotavirus-Specific Cytotoxic T Lymphocyte Response of Mice after Oral Inoculation with Candidate Rotavirus Vaccine Strains RRV or WC3

The immunologic basis of homotypic and heterotypic protection by immunization with two candidate rotavirus vaccine strains (simian strain RRV and bovine strain WC3, respectively) was investigated. Mice were orally inoculated with RRV, and 6 d later splenic lymphocytes lysed target cells infected with RRV (serotype 3) but not with human rotavirus serotypes 1 or 2; 4 w after inoculation, cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) generated in vitro from CTL precursors were also strain-specific. Also, the frequency of RRV-specific CTLs from CTLp after RRV immunization was 20-fold greater than that of cross-reactive CTLs. Inoculation of mice with WC3 (serotype 6), on the other hand, produced cross-reactive CTLs from CTLp at 4 w; CTLs lysed target cells infected with WC3 or human serotypes 1, 2, or 3 to the same extent. The frequency of cross-reactive CTLs after WC3 immunization was greater than or equal to 20-fold greater than that of WC3-specific CTLs. Cross-reactive, rotavirus-specific CTLs induced after WC3 immunization may in part explain the immunologic basis of protection against heterotypic challenge.
Technology, Learning, and Innovation in Textile Arts: Integrating Archaeological and Ethnographic Perspectives

Extensive archaeological basketry and textile assemblages recovered from throughout western North America have facilitated development of some of the longest and most well-dated chronologies for th...
Targeting a foreign protein into virion particles by fusion with the Vpx protein of simian immunodeficiency virus

The Vpx and Vpr proteins of the primate immunodeficiency viruses are stoichiometrically incorporated into virion particles. The chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) enzyme, when fused to a sufficient portion of the simian immunodeficiency virus (SIVmac239) Vpx protein, was incorporated into virions and retained enzymatic activity. An analysis of the replication of this virus compared with the replication of revertants and control viruses encoding nonpackageable Vpx-CAT fusion proteins suggested that the observed delay in replication was due to cis-acting effects of the CAT gene insertion rather than to the presence of the Vpx-CAT fusion protein in the virions. These studies indicate that, in host cells where Vpx and Vpr function is not required for efficient SIVmac replication, functional enzymes can be incorporated into virions by fusion with the Vpx protein. This approach could be utilized for study of the function and localization of Vpx and/or Vpr proteins during virus replication and for attempts to disrupt virus replication by the incorporation of foreign proteins.
General features of high-energy proton-proton and pion-proton elastic scattering

Certain similarities in transverse momentum dependence between high-energy hadron elastic scattering and multi-pion production are pointed out. It is suggested these may be a consequence of unitarity, and a calculation with a simple model is done to explore this possibility. Among other things, these considerations suggest that the slope of the large-angle p-p elastic cross-section is not constant, as has been thought, but that it decreases with energy.
Nonlinear analysis on flexible joint with non-uniform elastomer

Based on experiment data,the elastomer material of flexible joint was simulated by using Mooney-Rivlin model.According to nonlinear theory,mixed-interpolation finite element method was used for large deformation-nonlinear elasticity analysis of flexible joint under certain tilt angle condition.The effects of the variable-thickness elastomer on interlayer stress were preliminarily discussed.The results show that when the interlayer thickness of the elastomer is reduced to some degree,the interlayer shear stress along width direction becomes uniform,and stress value is mainly located below 2 MPa;the interlayer normal stress has small change,which presents secondary curve distribution,and the maximum stress value was reduced;non-uniform thickness of the elastomer close to after flange has great effect on the maximum value of all stress.
Advancements in Ptosis Surgery

This article presents modifications of standard surgical techniques for the correction of ptosis that the author believes represent advances or warrant consideration. Each technique is discussed in relationship to the standard operation of which it is a variation. The focus is on lid shortening procedures, levator operations, and brow suspension procedures.
Effect of atrial natriuretic peptide (8-33-Met ANP) in patients with hypertension.

In this pilot study we investigated the effects of a 4-h infusion of atrial natriuretic peptide (8-33 Met ANP) on hemodynamic, renal, and hormonal parameters in 12 patients with hypertension. Either 8-33 ANP in 5% mannitol (0.7 microgram/min [eight patients] and 1.05 micrograms/min [four patients]) or placebo (5% mannitol) was infused for 4 h on 2 consecutive days in a randomized double-blind crossover design. The plasma levels of ANP were not significantly different between the two doses of ANP and therefore the results from the two doses were combined. Plasma ANP increased from 61 +/- 24 pg/mL to 291 +/- 55 pg/mL after 2 h and to 288 +/- 40 pg/mL after 4 h. ANP caused a significant lowering of systolic blood pressure after 2 h of infusion from 148 +/- 5 mm Hg to 142 +/- 5 mm Hg (P less than .05) and to 128 +/- 6 after 4 h (P less than .01). Two hours after discontinuation of the infusion, systolic blood pressure was 126 +/- 6 and 135 +/- 7 mm Hg 4 h after the end of the infusion. Diastolic blood pressure did not change. Heart rate increased from 69 +/- 3 beats/min to 74 +/- 3 beats/min after 4 h and to 78 +/- 4 beats/min 2 h after termination of the infusion. Cardiac output did not change significantly. Urinary sodium and chloride increased significantly but creatinine clearance did not change. Plasma aldosterone decreased after 2 h of ANP infusion from 9.8 +/- 1.7 ng/dL to 6.7 +/- 0.9 ng/dL (P less than .01) and to 6.5 +/- 1.2 ng/dL after 4 h (P less than .05). Plasma renin activity decreased from 0.81 +/- 0.1 ng angiotensin I/mL/h to 0.57 +/- 0.1 after 2 h of infusion (P less than .05). There were no significant changes in plasma catecholamines or arginine vasopressin. Two patients developed severe hypotension and bradycardia and one of them had a sinus pause of 7.4 sec associated with loss of consciousness. Neither of these two patients had a significant increase in plasma catecholamines in response to the severe hypotension, suggesting that ANP may have inhibited their sympathetic response and increased their sensitivity to vagal cardioinhibitory reflexes. In conclusion, infusion of ANP in hypertensive patients causes prolonged lowering of systolic blood pressure with no change in diastolic pressure and cardiac output.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Biosynthesis of the gp330/44-kDa Heymann nephritis antigenic complex: assembly takes place in the ER

The Heymann nephritis antigenic complex (HNAC) consists of two components, i.e., 1) gp330, a large glycoprotein localized in coated pits of the proximal tubule and glomerular epithelium, and 2) a 44-kDa protein which is homologous to the human alpha 2-macroglobulin receptor-associated protein (RAP). To examine the biosynthesis and assembly of HNAC, tissue fragments prepared from collagenase-digested 1-day-old rat kidneys were radiolabeled, and gp330 and RAP were immunoprecipitated with specific antibodies. By electron microscopy the tubule organization was seen to be largely intact. Results obtained on the biosynthesis of a control brush border protein, dipeptidylpeptidase IV (DPPIV), showed that tubules prepared in this manner are capable of synthesis and posttranslational processing of brush border membrane proteins and thus are suitable for short-term ( 60 min after synthesis, is the formation of a larger heterooligomer, which results in a shift in size of the complex from 19.3 to 38.6S. Both steps occur before acquisition of Endo H resistance. These results indicate that HNAC consists of a large multimeric complex that is assembled in the rough ER.
Commentary of papers

Use of diffractometric methods for clinical analysis of red cell number, shape and hemoglobin content has been proposed repeatedly through the years. Reality has invariably fallen far short of the apparent promise for at least two reasons. First, locating the diffraction bands has proven to be difficult to do by eye, and secondly, the clarity of the diffraction image tends to decrease in direct proportion to the extent of disease in a red cell population. For a method to have clinical utility, the analysis should be rapidly, easily, and reproducibly accomplished on abnormal as well as normal red cell populations.
Gorgias: Plato's manifesto for philosophy

THE PLAGE OF THE GORGIAS With the Gorgias we encounter one of Plato's greatest works, as it is also one of his longest. (Of all the dialogues, only the Republic and the Laws are longer.) Nowhere are the philosophic and dramatic components in Plato's art more powerfully blended than in the confrontation here between Socrates and his three successive interlocutors. Plato has taken up the old Greek moral theme of the choice between two lives and transformed it into a philosophical debate on the principles of morality and the nature of the good life. And by bringing both Socrates and his adversaries so vividly to life, Plato has represented these issues with unforgettable intensity. The Gorgias is also a foundational text for two areas of philosophy; it is the first major work both in ethics and in political theory. Some of the same issues are discussed in the Crito , where Socrates gives his reasons for not escaping from prison. So Plato may be said to have founded moral philosophy twice: once in the Crito and a second time in the Gorgias . Plato was of course anticipated here by Socrates, to an extent that we cannot determine. And the power of the Gorgias largely derives from the fact that Socrates in this dialogue represents both the historical individual and also Plato's philosophical reflection upon the meaning of Socrates' life and death. The Crito exemplifies moral philosophy by demonstrating how one can bring reason to bear on an important practical decision. Socrates is depicted as someone who is always ready “to obey the argument ( logos ) which, upon reflection, seems to me the best” (46B).
Wemheuer, Felix Famine Politics in Maoist China and the Soviet Union: New Haven, CT: Yale University Press 325 pp., $65.00, ISBN 978-0-300-19581-1 Publication Date: August 2014

Was the Ukrainian Holodomor the result of a genocidal plan by Stalin? In what sense was Mao responsible for the famine that swept China after the Great Leap Forward? Both are fundamental questions,...
Clinical outcomes in t(11;14) multiple myeloma.

8592 Background: Chromosomal translocations involving the immunoglobulin heavy chain region on chromosome 14 are common abnormalities in multiple myeloma (MM); with translocation t(11;14) being the...
Teamwork and Communication Skills in Cardiothoracic Surgery

Teamwork and communication skills are essential for the safe practice of cardiothoracic surgery. In this article, we will summarize the literature on teamwork and the culture of safety, and discuss how surgeons may directly improve the outcomes of their patients by addressing these factors.
Many Shades of Green: Assessing Awareness of Differences in Mental Health Care Needs Among Subpopulations of Military Veterans:

The current study sought to examine access to services by various veteran subgroups: racial/ethnic minorities, females, rural populations, and LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer). Generally, the Veteran Service Officers (VSOs) interviewed for this study did not feel that these subgroups were well served by the program and treatment options presently available, and that other groups such as males and urban veterans received better access to necessary psychosocial and medical care. This research extends studies that explore overall connection to services by further demonstrating barriers to receipt of services by specific subgroups of veterans, particularly those at risk for involvement in the criminal justice system.
Co-Teacher Noticing: Implications for Professional Development.

Federal laws require schools to incorporate co-teaching environments, often comprised of an inclusion specialist and content specialist. Research shows individual teachers can make improvements to ...
Risk Shift: An Institutional Logics Perspective:

This study uses the concept of institutional logics and the framing processes emanating from these guiding logics to understand how risk is shifted through public policies. The study concludes that...
Rapid recovery of a coral dominated Eastern Tropical Pacific reef after experimentally produced anthropogenic disturbance

Local anthropogenic stressors such as overfishing, nutrient enrichment and increased sediment loading have been shown to push coral reefs toward greater dominance by algae. In a few cases this shift has been temporary, with the ability to recover to a healthy coral-dominated community after disturbance, suggesting some systems have considerable resilience. However, an understanding of the circumstances under which reefs may recover is only beginning to emerge. We monitored recovery of a coral-dominated reef in the Eastern Tropical Pacific (ETP) after cessation of a ∼6 month multiple stressor experiment (with herbivore exclosure, nutrient addition, and sediment addition). We observed substantial recovery from small-scale disturbances, though there were differences in both the extent and temporal dynamics of recovery between treatments. Plots that had been caged showed the largest recovery in absolute terms and recovery was quite rapid, while nutrient and sediment addition plots were slower to recover. We also observed different recovery patterns depending on the type of algae that replaced coral during or after disturbances. Macroalgae that established during manipulation were almost completely removed within 2 weeks, revealing that a significant proportion had covered still-living coral. Turf algae persisted longer, but were almost completely replaced by regenerating coral within 18 months. Very little crustose coralline algae were apparent during manipulations, but coverage did increase during recovery. This rapid recovery of corals after simulated anthropogenic disturbance to ETP reefs underscores the value of management of local stressors for short-term recovery and perhaps as a buffer for longer-term global stressors.
Improving Screening for Autism Spectrum Disorder: Is It Time for Something New?

* Abbreviations: ASD — : autism spectrum disorder ASQ — : Ages and Stages Questionnaire EAS — : Emotionality, Activity, and Sociability Temperament Survey MCHAT — : Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers MCHAT-R — : Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers-Revised USPSTF — : United States Preventive Services Task Force Although autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be reliably detected by age 2, the average age of diagnosis ranges from age 4 to 6, depending on the population.1 Because earlier access to treatment is thought to improve outcomes,2 delays in diagnosis may lead to avoidable morbidity. In an effort to lower the average age of diagnosis, considerable efforts are being made to promote early ASD screening.3–5 Two predominant strategies exist: broad-based developmental surveillance and targeted ASD screening.6,7 Although there are data to support each strategy, targeted ASD screening has recently gained popularity. The American Academy of Pediatrics, for example, recommends all children receive an ASD-specific screener at their 18- and 24-month well-child visit, and it proactively supports these guidelines with resources and trainings.3 A number of studies support ASD-specific screeners (the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers [MCHAT] and the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers-Revised [MCHAT-R]) for detecting early ASD … Address correspondence to Sarabeth Broder-Fingert, MD, MPH, Division of General Pediatrics, Boston University School of Medicine, 850 Harrison Ave, Room 310A, Boston, MA 02118. E-mail: sarabeth.broder-fingert{at}bmc.org
Influence of Concrete Mixture Parameters on Chloride Test Measurements

AbstractThe American Concrete Institute (ACI) and most state highway agency (SHA) organizations limit the amount of chlorides in fresh concrete to lower the risk associated with corrosion of steel ...
Optimal Nonlinear Control Using a Non-quadratic Cost Function for Scalar Systems

Various types of controllers have been studied and implemented to mitigate the effects of excitations from natural hazards. Linear control laws are most often applied, for active devices as well as part of the controller for semiactive devices, primarily due to their simple design and use. However, researchers have investigated nonlinear control of structures, showing performance improvements relative to that with linear controllers. The optimal linear control law that minimizes a quadratic cost function can be obtained using typical solvers like Matlab’s lqr command. In contrast, the optimal nonlinear controller generally requires minimizing a non-quadratic cost function, which is difficult and analytical solutions may only exist when the cost function is in particular forms. This paper presents a comparison of some of the analytical and numerical methods for finding optimal nonlinear controllers, particularly for cost functions that are even order powers of the states and quadratic in the control. A scalar model (i.e., a scalar state-space equation) is used for the comparisons since analytical solutions exist for some of the methods. Even though the methods would all result in the same linear control law, it is demonstrated that the methods’ differing assumptions give rise to different optimal nonlinear control laws, with different performance in different excitations.
Approximation of the Velocity by Coupling Discontinuous Galerkin and Mixed Finite Element Methods for Flow Problems

In this paper, we show how to couple the local discontinuous Galerkin method and the Raviart–Thomas mixed finite element method for elliptic equations modeling flow problems. We then show that the approximation of the velocity converges with the optimal order of k when we take the local discontinuous Galerkin that uses polynomials of degree k and the Raviart–Thomas space of polynomials of degree k−1.
Effect of planetary rotation on oceanic surface boundary layer turbulence

AbstractA large-eddy simulation (LES) model is configured to investigate the effect of the horizontal (northward) component of Earth’s rotation on upper-ocean turbulence. The focus is on the variab...
Gendered Impressions of Issue Publics as Predictors of Climate Activism

The present work explores how gendered impressions of issue publics (i.e., those who are well informed about, and have strong opinions about, a given topic) can predict individuals’ interest in engaging in activism either consistent with the issue public’s position or diametrically opposed to its position. In two studies (Ns = 286, 245) using MTurk samples, we explore the predictors of pro-climate and anti-climate activism based on the impressions of the climate concerned (i.e., an issue public supporting action on climate change; Study 1) and the climate dismissive (i.e., an issue public opposing action on climate change; Study 2). We relied on two complementary theoretical perspectives to make predictions: a) gender role congruity theory, which suggests that the more perceivers ascribe gendered traits to issue publics that match the perceiver’s own gender, the more they will engage in behavior associated with that issue public , and b) social value of attributes which suggests that various components of femininity and masculinity may be universally valued (i.e., positive aspects of masculinity) or devalued (i.e., negative aspects of femininity) by society regardless of perceivers’ own gender. Predictions made by gender role congruity theory were not supported: men did not prefer engaging in activism when they perceived the relevant issue public to be more masculine and women did not tend to prefer engaging in activism when they perceived the relevant issue public to be more feminine. In contrast, results were consistent with social value of attributes predictions suggesting the importance of positive components of masculine impressions of issue publics in promoting activism consistent with the issue public and discouraging activism diametrically opposed to the issue public Yet, results also point to the potential “dark side” of appearing masculine: ascribing negative masculine traits to an issue public was associated with increased willingness to engage in activism diametrically opposed to the issue public and, when the issue public dismisses climate change, reduced interest in engaging in anti-climate activism. In contrast, ascribing negative feminine traits to an issue public did not uniquely predict interest in engaging in activism either supporting or opposed to the issue public.
Medium response to jet-induced excitation: theory overview

Abstract A short overview on recent progress in studies of medium response to jet quenching in high-energy heavy-ion collisions is presented. We introduce some phenomenological models and discuss the features of medium response effect on jet observables.
Information Processing Artifacts

What is a computer? What distinguishes computers from other artificial or natural systems with alleged computational capacities? What does use of a physical system for computation entail, and what distinguishes such use from otherwise identical transformation of that same system when it is not so used? This paper addresses such questions through a theory of information processing artifacts (IPAs), the class of technical artifacts with physical capacities that enable agents to use them as means to their computational ends. Function ascription, use plan requirements, malfunction, and efficacy of IPAs are all addressed in this theory, with emphasis on artifacts that can be used—reliably or otherwise—for digital computation. By explicitly distinguishing physically grounded computational capacities from user-ascribed computational functions, and by recognizing the distinct roles of each for the implementation of computations in artifacts, this theory clearly distinguishes the use of physical systems for computation from the transformations of physical system states that enable such use. As such, it provides a rigorous basis for distinguishing “computers” from other artificial and natural systems—a distinction whose nature and legitimacy faces ever-evolving challenges from multiple disciplines. This theory, and the associated “instrumental” view of computation in artifacts, naturally accommodates the openminded but scrupulous consideration of radically unconventional physical systems as potential substrates for future computers.
Examining the "usual" in usual care: a critical review and recommendations for usual care conditions in psycho-oncology.

Within psycho-oncology clinical trials, usual care (UC) represents a common and important control condition. Yet recent shifts in oncology, coupled with insufficient description of such conditions, threaten to render UC increasingly difficult to define and interpret. This paper offers evidence of these shifts and recommendations for addressing them. The broader literature on usual care as a control condition in psychosocial/behavioral intervention trials was assessed, and usual care-controlled trials in psycho-oncology were selectively reviewed, toward to goal of conceptual synthesis. We offer evidence that (1) UC control conditions are often insufficiently defined and assessed; and (2) the context of supportive care in oncology has shifted in a manner that contributes to this problem, with implications for interpreting and comparing findings across clinical trials. Three converging findings support these conclusions. First, the scientific literature increasingly documents the diversity in how “usual care” conditions are defined across psychosocial and behavioral trials, with important considerations for trial interpretation. Second, evidence suggests that the availability of psychosocial oncology care has increased over the past few decades. The increasing availability and variety of psychosocial care introduces potential confounds for UC conditions. Third, mental health care trends in the general population affect the supportive interventions available to oncology patients in UC conditions today versus in the past. Shifts in psychosocial oncology and broader mental health care underscore the importance of carefully defining and assessing UC in psycho-oncology trials. Recommendations are offered for improving the design, evaluation, and interpretation of UC conditions, toward the ultimate goal of improving the quality of the evidence in psycho-oncology.
Systems failure: the US way of irregular warfare

Since 9/11, the United States has achieved notable gains against al Qaeda, and also Islamic State (IS), all while avoiding another mass-casualty attack at home. Yet, institutionally, culturally, an...
The Sky Is the Limit

Throughout this textbook, we have explored the many reasons why medical professionals can and should join social media. We have discussed strategies for developing content, disseminating information, and engaging with a target audience. However, in addition to filling the void online with evidence-based information and interacting with patients and the general public, medical professionals can use social media in other ways. Academic institutions are beginning to recognize the importance of social media for their organizations and individual faculty members. Social media is being incorporated into traditional metrics for promotion and tenure. In addition, research surrounding social media has grown in recent years, both in understanding how it impacts patients and how it is being adopted by medical professionals. This final chapter will discuss additional ways medical professionals can utilize social media for career development.
Observations of energy consumption and IEQ in a ‘Tiny House’

The ‘Tiny House’ is a class of residential construction with floor areas less than 400 ft2 (37.16 m2). The components of the Tiny House (TH) pose certain unique challenges in terms of maintaining a...
Postoperative Adverse Events, Interventions, and the Utility of Routine Follow-Up After 23-, 25-, and 27-Gauge Pars Plana Vitrectomy.

Purpose To evaluate the utility of standard postoperative visit (POV) intervals in pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) as a function of adverse events (AEs) identified. Design Retrospective case review. Methods The medical records of all patients undergoing 23-, 25-, and 27-gauge PPV from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2016 were reviewed. Each POV was assessed as a standard (s-POV), physicianadjusted (a-POV), or patient-initiated visit (p-POV). Preoperative features, diagnoses, and surgical procedures were evaluated to determine protective and risk factors for AEs. Results A total of 256 patients (310 PPVs) were included in this study. The most common cumulative postoperative AEs were elevated intraocular pressure (>30 mm Hg) (12.3%), cystoid macular edema (6.1%), and retinal detachment (5.8%). Patients with the diagnosis of macular hole or epiretinal membrane had the lowest relative risk of AEs [0.30; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.12-0.75 and 0.36; 95% CI, 0.21-0.63, respectively]. There was no difference in time to AE among different vitrectomy gauge sizes (P = 0.733). Patients in a-POV and p-POV groups had a statistically significant higher incidence of AEs in the POV day 5-10 window (P = 0.004). Conclusions The utility of standard POVs in detecting AEs is dependent on the indication for PPV. Specifically patients undergoing isolated macular surgery (epiretinal membrane peel or macular hole repair) had the lowest relative risk of postoperative AEs and may warrant a less-intensive follow-up regimen.
The Crisis and Aftermath-I: Behavioral Economics

Behavioral economics research was a groundbreaking step in the economics arena. Economists working in this field aimed to create an understanding of how people decide, rather than how they should decide, which forms the basis of methodologies in mainstream economics. Even though behavioral studies have been carried out since the 1970s, most economists didn’t appreciate them much, reasoning that the results of laboratory experiments might not hold in everyday life. This view has significantly changed in the past decade. In this chapter, I first summarize a couple of useful findings of behavioral economists and their implications for the markets; then I explain how the 2008 crisis gave credence to behavioral studies: The crisis showed us that the behavioral theories add useful insights to our understanding of erratic human decisions behind the crisis the reasons for which mostly remain a puzzle to mainstream theories.
Combined endovascular-surgical treatment for complex congenital intrahepatic arterioportal fistula: A case report and review of the literature.

Combined endovascular-surgical treatment for complex congenital intrahepatic arterioportal fistula: A case report and review of the literature
Paying for a Clean Record

Prosecutors and courts often charge a premium for the ability to avoid or erase a criminal conviction. Defendants with means, who tend to be predominantly white, can often pay for a clean record. But the indigent who are unable to pay, and are disproportionately Black and brown, are saddled with the stigma of a criminal record. Diversion and expungement are two popular reforms that were promulgated as ways to reduce the scale of the criminal legal system and mitigate the impact of mass criminalization. Diversion allows a defendant to earn dismissal of a charge by satisfying conditions set by the prosecutor or court, thereby avoiding conviction. Expungement seals or erases the defendant’s record of arrest or conviction. Some diversion and expungement programs are cost-free, but most are not. Yet a criminal record carries its own costs. A criminal record can limit where an individual can live, go to school, and whether they receive public benefits. As ninety-three percent of employers conduct background checks on job applicants, the inability to avoid a criminal record can create barriers to employment and the accumulation of wealth. Costly diversion and expungement programs further calcify race and class divides, contributing to the construction of a permanent underclass. This Article examines the promises and pitfalls of diversion and expungement as means to combat mass criminalization. Though there is a rich literature on criminal records relief, as well as scholarship discussing diversion, no article has addressed how these two mechanisms work in tandem to provide access to a “clean record” or explored the phenomenon of differential access to clean records based on financial means. This Article considers legal challenges to the current schemes and explains how requiring defendants to pay for a clean record enables courts and prosecutors to profit from the perpetuation of racial caste. Ultimately, this Article argues that the impacts of diversion and expungement programs are more modest than reformers claim, and that these programs need to be offered at no cost if they are to succeed in achieving the goal of reducing racial disparities in our criminal courts and in society at large.