cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fabrication and properties of ceramic composites with a boron nitride matrix

Boron nitride (BN) matrix composites reinforced by a number of different ceramic fibers have been prepared using a low-viscosity, borazine oligomer which converts in very high yield to a stable BN matrix when heated to 1,200 C. Fibers including Nicalon (SiC), FP (Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}), Sumica and Nextel 440 (Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}-SiO{sub 2}) were evaluated. The Nicalon/BN and Sumica/BN composites displayed good flexural strengths of 380 and 420 MPa, respectively, and modulus values in both cases of 80 GPa. On the other hand, FP/BN and Nextel/BN composites exhibited very brittle behavior. Nicalon fiber with a carbon coating as a buffer barrier improved the strength by 30%, with a large amount of fiber pullout from the BN matrix. In all cases except for Nicalon, the composites showed low dielectric constant and loss.
Plasma compensation effects with relativistic electron beams

It is noted that a sufficiently dense plasma can neutralize the current of a high-energy lepton beam propagating through it. An e/sup +/-e/sup -/ linear collider design with this plasma compensation has been studied and it was found that high luminosities can be obtained without going to the nanometer beam sizes being discussed. The consequence of compensation on B-factory design has also been studied. In particular, the eased constraints on spot size and magnet alignment in the case of a linear collider, and the reduction in beam-beam tune shift for a B-factory are noted. One severe limitation on such a plasma-based device which has not been thoroughly examined is the background due to the interaction of the high-energy beams with the plasma ion nuclei. >
Epidemiology and natural history of common bile duct stones and prediction of disease.

Gallstones are extremely common in Western societies. Approximately l5% of Americans have gallstones, and approximately 650,000 to 700,000 cholecystectomies are performed every year.1. More than 98% of all biliary tract disorders are in some way related to gallstones. Symptoms and complications related to gallstones are among the most costly digestive disorders, at an estimated annual cost of almost $6.5 billion, exceeding the combined total for chronic liver disease and cirrhosis ($1.6 billion), chronic hepatitis C ($0.8 billion) and diseases of the pancreas ($2.2 billion).2 Stones are most commonly found in the gallbladder, but gallstones can pass through the cystic duct to become intrahepatic or extrahepatic bile duct stones. Ten to fifteen percent of people with gallbladder stones will harbor concomitant common bile duct stones. In some situations, bile duct stones can develop as primary intrahepatic or extrahepatic stones without involving the gallbladder. Primary bile duct concretions are much more common in patients of Asian descent compared with those of European descent. In Western societies, gallstones are composed primarily of cholesterol. EPIDEMIOLOGY OF CHOLESTEROL GALLSTONES The epidemiology of cholesterol gallstones has been examined in multiple studies. Risk factors for gallstones include behavioral factors such as nutrition, obesity, weight loss, and physical activity as well as biologic factors such as increasing age, female sex, race, and serum lipid levels.
Calibration of a cw infrared Doppler lidar.

A moving scattering target used as a transfer standard allows absolute calibration of the response of a cw Doppler lidar to an atmospheric target. The lidar in this study operated at a 10.6-μm wavelength. Consideration of the distribution of radiant energy density near the focus of the lidar transceiver permits measurement of a backscatter coefficient from a distributed array of scatterers, such as atmospheric aerosols, based on the diffuse reflectance of the surface of the transfer standard. The minimum detectable signal for our system with a 5-sec averaging time corresponds to a backscatter coefficient of 2.4 × 10−12 m−1 sr−1 ± 2.5 dB, which is ~9 dB greater than the theoretical threshold. Calibration shows that the lidar response is 5 ± 1 dB less than the ideal limit for signal powers well above the minimum detectable signal.
Teaching For Understanding: Spotlighting the Blythe and Associates Pedagogical Model

This paper explains what we mean by understanding, particularly in order to achieve deep learning. To so do, the paper initially reviews the relevant literature produced by some of the major thinkers in the field of assessment and measurement. It places special emphasis on The Teaching for Understanding Framework developed by Tina Blythe and Associates which challenges standard practices regarding student evaluation. The paper then uses this model to discuss several strategies that we can use to teach for understanding. Finally, the paper concludes by articulating that while there is no one way to teach for understanding, the use of well researched frameworks offers opportunities for pedagogues to effectively teach in ways where goal setting and evaluation can be applied in order to achieve a deep understanding of the curricula topic under consideration.
Pulsations in seafloor spreading rates and transit time dynamics

Correlation studies and theoretical models suggest the major plate driving forces, slab pull and ridge push, are closely linked to seafloor age at subduction zones (= transit time and hereafter denoted τ). Based on this fact it has been proposed that seafloor spreading rate fluctuations should be stably damped because a speedup should lead to rejuvenation of τ and hence a weakening of driving forces. If true, such stability could imply the first-order cycle in Pacific spreading rates during the Mesozoic-Cenozoic (“the pulse of the Earth”) was externally forced by mantle dynamics. However we show that a crucial assumption in this stability argument is invalid: increasing spreading rates do not necessarily cause transit time to decrease. The transit time dynamics of seafloor are complex; simple plate models suggest that, rather than stabilizing spreading rate, τ-dependent plate driving forces may be destabilizing leading to self-sustained and aperiodic oscillations. These results raise questions about the cause of spreading rate cycles. Most importantly, are the plates themselves, through age dynamics, actively contributing to “the pulse of the Earth” ?
Experience-based travel: How technology is changing the hospitality industry

The effect of information-technology applications is that, more than ever, knowledge is power. In this case, the market power will lie in satisfying guests' knowledge-based needs.
Output Correlation Function for a Half-wave Smooth Limiter†

ABSTRACT Under the assumption of a stationary Gaussian input, the output autocorrelation function, ψ(τ), of a half-wave smooth limiter is derived using two different procedures: (1) the ‘direct’ expansion method of Amiantov and Tikhonov, and (2) application of Price's theorem to obtain a differential equation relating ψ(τ) to the normalized input autocorrelation function, ρ(τ). In both cases, the resulting expressions are more tractable for numerical calculations than the previously derived double series expansion due to Kaufman and Roberts.
A molecular dynamics study of the early stages of amyloid‐β(1–42) oligomerization: The role of lipid membranes

As research progresses toward understanding the role of the amyloid-beta (Abeta) peptide in Alzheimer's disease, certain aspects of the aggregation process for Abeta are still not clear. In particular, the accepted constitution of toxic aggregates in neurons has shifted toward small oligomers. However, the process of forming these oligomers in cells is also not full clear. Even more interestingly, it has been implied that cell membranes, and, in particular, anionic lipids within those membranes, play a key role in the progression of Abeta aggregation, but the exact nature of the Abeta-membrane interaction in this process is unknown. In this work, we use a thermodynamic cycle and umbrella sampling molecular dynamics to investigate dimerization of the 42-residue Abeta peptide on model zwitterionic dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC) or model anionic dioleoylphosphatidylserine (DOPS) bilayer surfaces. We determined that Abeta dimerization was strongly favored through interactions with the DOPS bilayer. Further, our calculations showed that the DOPS bilayer promoted strong protein-protein interactions within the Abeta dimer, whereas DPPC favored strong protein-lipid interactions. By promoting dimer formation and subsequent dimer release into the solvent, the DOPS bilayer acts as a catalyst in Abeta aggregation.
Reading and Spelling Skills in Adults of Low Literacy

We tested the basic reading and spelling skills of 50 men of low literacy, from prisons. We describe in detail their skills in decoding and encoding, performance IQ and short-term memory, judgments of phonetic similarities, and segmentation, all measured with multiple tasks. Compared with children at the same grade levels in reading, the men performed better on some tasks but worse on those that required a knowledge of sound-spelling correspondences, on which they resembled children who are poor readers. The men in this sample were surprisingly uniform in lacking segmentation and decoding skills. Our measures of segmentation turned out to be of two types, one of which is closely related to the ability to read and spell new words.
Studies on the regulation of leucine catabolism. III. Effects of dichloroacetate and 2-chloropropionate on leucine oxidation by the heart.

Abstract The effect of dichloroacetate, an activator of pyruvate dehydrogenase and a hypoglycemic agent, on the oxidation of leucine by the perfused rat heart was studied. Dichloroacetate is known to promote leucine oxidation by liver with the mechanism involving dichloroacetate conversion to glyoxylate which acts as a substrate for leucine transamination [ 10 ]. Dichloroacetate also promotes leucine oxidation by heart, but unlike liver, the site is at the α-ketoisocaproate dehydrogenase step. This conclusion is based on the observation that dichloroacetate increases l -[1- 14 C]leucine oxidation to 14 CO 2 but decreases the steady state concentration of α-ketoisocaproate. It also increases the oxidation of [1- 14 C]-ketoisocaproate but not that of [1- 14 C]isovalerate. 2-Chloropropionate, another activator of pyruvate dehydrogenase, also stimulates leucine oxidation in the heart. Since 2-chloropropionate is not converted to glyoxylate, it follows that activation of leucine oxidation in the heart by these activators of pyruvate dehydrogenase is not explained by glyoxylate formation. Pyruvate is a very effective inhibitor of α-ketoisocaproate oxidation by the perfused rat heart. Activation of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex by dichloroacetate lowers the pyruvate content of glucose-perfused hearts and this appears to relieve the pyruvate-mediated inhibition of α-ketoisocaproate oxidation. The exact basis for pyruvate inhibition of α-ketoisocaproate oxidation remains to be established.
Viscous flow model of a subduction zone with a faulted lithosphere: Long and short wavelength topography, gravity and geoid

The essential features of observed topography, free air gravity, and the geoid over subduction zones have been reproduced with a dynamically self consistent viscous flow model of a subduction zone with a faulted lithosphere. A fault between the overriding and subducting plates is crucial to understanding lithospheric deformation and gravity in a subduction zone. The topography for models with a fault is characterized by a deep and narrow trench and a broad and shallow back-arc depression, quite different from viscous models without faults which only have a broad and large depression over subducting slabs. For a model in which a slab is 600 km long and 80 Myr old, the resulting trench is approximately 3 km deep and 100 km wide and the back-arc basin is about 1.5 km deep and 600 km wide; the model is characterized by a long wavelength geoid high of about 30 m over the slab, a local geoid low of 10 m over the trench and a 150 mgal gravity low over the trench. The fact that trench depth and width are reproduced in models with a small resisting shear stress, 50 bars, suggests that convergent plate boundaries are probably weak.
Adventure Racing for the Rest of Us

Adventure racing got started in the 1990s. The Eco-Challenge and Primal Quest races were multi-day events that included challenging physical activities and extreme conditions. Today, highly publicized adventure races like the Eco-Challenge and Amazing Race usually feature elite athletes or celebrities completing exotic tasks or globe-hopping to different parts of the world. But why should they have all the fun? An adventure race can be a fun, challenging event, hosted in the local community with local resources. This article discusses seven steps to setting up an adventure race, as well as variables such as route finding, teams, staff considerations, timing systems, risk management, evaluation, and tips for a successful race. The types of activities and team challenges are limited only by the creativity and imagination of the race coordinators. Careful thought and consideration of the variables of the race can help create an outstanding event that will draw participants for years to come.
Evaluation of a Latex Agglutination Kit (Virogen Rotatest) for Detection of Bovine Rotavirus in Fecal Samples

The performance of the Virogen Rotatest latex agglutination test (LAT) was evaluated for detection of bovine rotavirus antigen. Sixty-three fecal samples from diarrheic calves were collected from November 1999 to May 2000 and screened by LAT, the Rotazyme II enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and virus isolation (VI) followed by an anti-rotavirus fluorescent-antibody (FA) test to detect the presence of group A rotavirus antigen. Of the 63 samples screened by VI-FA, 33 (58%) tested positive for rotavirus antigen. When the results from the LAT were compared to those from VI-FA, the "gold standard" for detection of bovine rotavirus in fecal samples, the sensitivity and specificity were found to be 87.8 and 73.3%, respectively. Latex agglutination compared with ELISA (the reference method) showed 100% sensitivity and 96.3% specificity, and when ELISA was compared with VI, the sensitivity was 84.8% and the specificity was 73.3%. Latex agglutination is easy to perform in a short time and does not require expensive equipment or skilled personnel, and the reagents have long shelf lives. These factors make the LAT suitable and highly efficient for use in a clinical laboratory as a rapid screening test for bovine rotavirus.
Reduction of extracellular Na+ causes a release of Ca2+ from internal stores in airway epithelial cells

Exchange of physiological salt solution with Na(+)-free solution caused an increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in 86.3% of cultured airway epithelial cells within 75 s. [Ca2+]i returned to near baseline levels within 45 s and frequently showed oscillatory increases thereafter. When extracellular Na+ concentration ([Na+]o) was reduced to 10 and 60 mM, 59.0 and 8.0% of the cells increased [Ca2+]i, respectively. Low [Na+]o-induced increase in [Ca2+]i was not blocked by amiloride, benzamil, La3+, or the absence of extracellular Ca2+. Low [Na+]o-induced [Ca2+]i increase did not occur after thapsigargin treatment. These results indicated that low [Na+]o-induced [Ca2+]i increase is due to release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores. Because mechanical stimulation of a single cell causes a Ca2+ increase among many cells (Sanderson, M. J., A. C. Charles, and E. R. Dirksen. Mechanical stimulation and intercellular communication increases intracellular Ca2+ in epithelial cells. Cell Regul. 1: 585-596, 1990.) we assayed the effect of low [Na+]o on this mechanically induced response. In low [Na+]o, mechanically induced [Ca2+]i increase in the stimulated cell was reduced; however, [Ca2+]i increase in adjacent cells was normal. We suggest that a mechanically induced Na+ conductance in the stimulated cell contributes to [Ca2+]i changes. These signaling pathways may be involved in the maintenance of periciliary ion concentrations.
The Challenge of Environmental Protection

Words cannot begin to compare with nor do justice to the past deeds accomplished by ASCE members. Any predictions on future developments will fall far short of actual happenings to be. It is necessary to salute the past, acknowledge the present, and work for a future that will be better than both. The plea is for engineers to get involved in political processes and public decisions. Increased participation by the engineer in public policy making is essential to avoid mistakes which will be costly in money, resources, and public confidence. Here’s a place for the youngest member to contribute as well as those who have many years of practice behind them. The civil engineer has a special responsibility to work for policies and action which will conserve our resources and protect our environment.
Defining Nondiscrimination under the Law of the World Trade Organization

This article addresses a basic question under the law of the World Trade Organization (WTO): how should nondiscrimination be defined for the purpose of a given WTO provision? Despite its central importance to the world trading system, the concept of nondiscrimination remains highly elusive, and WTO tribunals have yet to develop clear tests to determine what constitutes discrimination under various WTO provisions. The article proposes an analytical framework for the assessment of the "likeness" or "similarity" issues, which are the key to determining whether discrimination exists. This analytical framework is built upon the "similarly situated" paradigm suggested by the WTO Appellate Body in the case of EC-Preferences, and draws upon general moral philosophy on the concepts of equality and similarity, as well as nondiscrimination jurisprudence developed under the equal protection and commerce clauses of the United States Constitution. Applying this framework, the article examines WTO judicial interpretations of nondiscrimination in a variety of treaty contexts, including those concerning "like products", "like services", "like conditions", and "similarly situated countries" under GATT, GATS, SPS, and the Enabling Clause. This analysis exposes gaps, ambiguities and inconsistencies in existing WTO jurisprudence. Moreover, it demonstrates that through the use of the proposed framework it becomes possible to interpret various nondiscrimination requirements of the WTO in a conceptually coherent and policy-consistent manner.
Additions to the Robber Fly Fauna of Southern Nevada, USA (Diptera: Asilidae)

Abstract We report on Asilidae collected in southern Nevada from 2004–2012 across an elevation gradient from 170 m along the Colorado River to 3350 m in Spring Mountains National Recreation Area (SMNRA), with particular emphasis in Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge (AMNWR) and SMNRA. Collections were made opportunistically during extensive expeditions throughout the region. We detected 42 species in 25 genera among at least 116 specimens, including 18 new state records for Nevada. Our data increase the Nevada asilid species list to at least 151 species in 52 genera. Robber flies were relatively common in specific locations, but varied in abundance and composition among species and across the region. We detected 20 robber fly species among 13 genera in AMNWR, and 23 species in 17 genera in SMNRA. Despite the proximity of AMNWR and SMNRA, only 3 of 42 (7.1%) documented species co-occurred in the two primary study areas. The paucity of robber fly species in Ash Meadows may be attributable to the abundance...
Bilateral occipital strokes from an atherosclerotic trigeminal artery

A 58-year-old man with coronary disease presented with headache, confusion, and vision loss. On examination, he had retrograde and anterograde amnesia, superior homonymous quadrantanopias, and could not identify colors. MRI showed bilateral occipital infarcts involving the parahippocampal and lingual gyri (figure 1). CT angiography revealed a hypoplastic vertebrobasilar circulation, with a persistent right trigeminal artery supplying the rostral basilar artery (figure 2). Persistent fetal arteries may increase risk of atherogenesis due to increased turbulence.1 A rare cortical syndrome, new-onset achromatopsia with amnesia should provoke concern for top of the basilar syndrome.2 In this case, fetal artery intracranial atherosclerosis resulted in a “top of the trigeminal” syndrome.
The Art of Criteria Ars Criteria as Demonstration of Vigor in Poetic Inquiry

The author presents ars criteria (the art of criteria) poems as a re-entry into the dialogue about rigor and quality in qualitative research using arts-based research, and poetry in particular. Thi...
Immunity of rabbits to Shope's fibroma virus.

termining the immunity of rabbits to fibroma infection is the resistance of previously infected rabbits to super-infection. Kilham and Fisher (1954) found that a cottontail which had been inoculated with a high concentration of fibroma virus one, three, four, and six days after an initial infective injection developed fibromas at the first and third day, but not at the fourth and sixth day sites. Although there appears to be immunity to reinfection at four days, neutralizing antiobodies were not found
Novel exposure biomarkers of N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide (DEET): Data from the 2007-2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

Abstract Background N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide (DEET) is a widely used insect repellent in the United States. Objectives To assess exposure to DEET in a representative sample of persons 6 years and older in the U.S. general population from the 2007–2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Methods We analyzed 5348 urine samples by using online solid-phase extraction coupled to isotope dilution-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. We used regression models to examine associations of various demographic parameters with urinary concentrations of DEET biomarkers. Results We detected DEET in ~ 3% of samples and at concentration ranges (> 0.08 μg/L–45.1 μg/L) much lower than those of 3-(diethylcarbamoyl)benzoic acid (DCBA) (> 0.48 μg/L–30,400 μg/L) and N,N-diethyl-3-hydroxymethylbenzamide (DHMB) (> 0.09 μg/L–332 μg/L). DCBA was the most frequently detected metabolite (~ 84%). Regardless of survey cycle and the person's race/ethnicity or income, adjusted geometric mean concentrations of DCBA were higher in May–Sep than in Oct–Apr. Furthermore, non-Hispanic whites in the warm season were more likely than in the colder months [adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 10.83; 95% confidence interval (CI), 3.28–35.79] and more likely than non-Hispanic blacks (OR = 3.45; 95% CI, 1.51–7.87) to have DCBA concentrations above the 95th percentile. Conclusions The general U.S. population, including school-age children, is exposed to DEET. However, reliance on DEET as the sole urinary biomarker would likely underestimate the prevalence of exposure. Instead, oxidative metabolites of DEET are the most adequate exposure biomarkers. Differences by season of the year based on demographic variables including race/ethnicity likely reflect different lifestyle uses of DEET-containing products.
A High Speed Data Sample System Based on Being Embedded PC

A data sample system based on being embedded system of PC is mainly to sample high analog signals It connect with the actual inspecting instrument in industrial pipeline by ultrasonic, introducing the constitution of systemic hardware and software It also relates the way of sampling high speed signals automatizationally succeeding in using twoport RAM
Group interactions during space missions.

INTRODUCTION Previous anecdotal reports from space and results from space simulation studies on Earth have suggested that the group interactions of crewmembers during space missions can be problematic in ways that can negatively affect crew safety and the accomplishment of mission goals. METHODS To assess the interpersonal environment of space crewmembers, we used a set of standard questionnaires that were completed by 5 astronauts, 8 cosmonauts, and 58 American and Russian mission control personnel who participated in the Shuttle/Mir Program. RESULTS Although we did not find strong evidence supporting predicted decrements in tension and cohesion during the second half of the missions, we did find that both crewmembers and mission control personnel displaced unpleasant emotions to monitoring personnel outside of their group. We also found significant differences between Americans and Russians in terms of measures of satisfaction with their interpersonal and work environments. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest a number of countermeasures to help future space crews deal with potential maladaptive group interactions. These countermeasures address issues at the time of selection, during prelaunch training, during the mission itself, and after the crew returns to Earth.
Risk for Developing Epilepsy

Lifetime risk and cumulative incidence of epilepsy were examined among Rochester, MN, residents between 1960 and 1979, and are reported from Columbia University, New York; and Mayo Clinic.
The evolution of Ghanaian Internet cafés, 2003–2014

ABSTRACTTwo main perspectives characterize current research on Internet cafes in the developing world. The “inclusionary” perspective represents these public digital spaces as the most important source of connectivity and inclusion for the global population. The “transitional” perspective represents Internet cafes as a dying business whose obituary is long overdue. This study describes a search for two dozen Internet cafes in Ghana, based on establishments first identified in 2003, accompanied by interviews with patrons and cafe attendants. Our initial exploration supported the transitional prediction that cafes would be shuttered or replaced by traditional businesses. However, an expanded search led us to the conclusion that “walking distance” replacements for all cafes remained available, supporting the inclusionary view. Qualitative interviews revealed the shift of cybers to business services and their continued importance as online spaces for disadvantaged populations.
Interpreting China’s Model for Business: Roles of Corruption, Favoritism, Reliability, and Responsibility

Abstract This chapter positions China’s transition from command economy toward a market economy within a theory of comparative political economy. The term political economy refers to the interaction of political and economic institutions and the influence of this interaction on other social institutions, typically studied in specific countries or groups of countries. The chapter addresses interpretation of China’s model for business. Its model combines a dynamically evolving combination of state-owned and privately owned enterprises within a process of marketization and privatization directed by a one-party regime itself moving away from communism. The perspective of anticorruption and corporate social responsibility (CSR) literature is explicitly taken as key aspects for assessing that business model. Two possible points of comparison in comparative political economy are other BRICS, a five-country global category including China, and Southeast and South Asian countries with particular emphasis on Vietnam and India. There is considerable empirical research on Chinese firms appearing in English in international business and economics reports. This chapter has relied, as much as possible, on Chinese and Chinese-ethnic scholars publishing in that literature. The research findings provide insights for closer attention concerning the roles of four dimensions of the business model for closer attention: corruption, favoritism (including guanxi ), reliability (political), and CSR.
Making Photography Matter: A Viewer's History from the Civil War to the Great Depression

Review of: "Making Photography Matter: A Viewer’s History from the Civil War to the Great Depression," by Cara A. Finnegan.
Copyright Law and Digital Piracy: An Econometric Global Cross-National Study

Digital piracy is a worldwide concern. Both very high and very low rates of intellectual property infringement threaten innovation, thus implying that some level of effective copyright regulation is required to incentivize the creation of original works. However, although Article 27 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights advocates for social access to culture as well as the protection of copyright, many countries do not yet have an economic and legal balance between authors and consumers. This article aims to identify which copyright law measures are more related to low/high digital piracy rates. To address that question, the author presents a picture of how the world of copyright is today. The empirical law and economics methodology used in this paper thus consists of a content analysis of significantly selected copyright law measures that have been more or less broadly implemented, or that have been dismissed by 108 countries in their current national copyright statutes. After processing the resultant database (or coding scheme) with econometric and descriptive statistical tools, the findings suggest that: (1) the legal measures correlated to high digital piracy rates include the sweat of the brow doctrine and secondary liability rules for Internet Service Providers ("ISPs"); (2) the measures most connected to low piracy rates are private copying and fair use provisions; (3) statutes that favor copyright holders are associated with greater rates of digital piracy; and (4) richer countries show lower levels of copyright infringement, which validates the development economics theory. Because there is no extant literature on this topic, these results constitute the first step toward a comprehensive cross-national quantitative study on comparative copyright law and digital piracy, both in descriptive and explanatory terms. Without doubt, this project will excite scholars in economics and intellectual property but will also intrigue international policymakers as the outcomes of this study provide core policy guidelines on copyright that legislatures and governments around the world can implement. These interdisciplinary recommendations are in line with designing a new and economically viable regulatory copyright model which aims to reduce piracy rates and to solve the global tension between authors and consumers in the digital era.
Leibniz and Foucher

Leibniz also considered the problems of Cartesian dualism. His New System was partially inspired by Foucher’s objections to Cartesianism, and can be seen as providing a way to avoid Cartesian difficulties. Hence, we shall now present an interpretation of Leibniz’s New System, with emphasis on his concern with first principles, certain knowledge, and the external world. This will be done in the context of Foucher’s criticisms of Leibniz. The chapter concludes with an examination of Leibniz’s system in its role of solving Cartesian problems.
A Systematic Approach of Identifying Optimal Load Control Actions for Arresting Cascading Failures in Power Systems

Cascading outages in power networks cause blackouts which lead to huge economic and social consequences. The traditional form of load shedding is avoidable in many cases by identifying optimal load control actions. However, if there is a change in the system topology (adding or removing loads, lines etc), the calculations have to be performed again. This paper addresses this problem by providing a workflow that 1) generates system models from IEEE CDF specifications, 2) identifies a collection of blackout causing contingencies, 3) dynamically sets up an optimization problem, and 4) generates a table of mitigation strategies in terms of minimal load curtailment. We demonstrate the applicability of our proposed methodology by finding load curtailment actions for N-k contingencies (k = 1, 2, 3) in IEEE 14 Bus system.
Social Studies Methods for Pre-Service Elementary Teachers: Implications for Literacy and ELL Instruction

Eight elementary social studies methods texts were examined specifically focusing on literacy content (reading comprehension strategies, vocabulary strategies, and literacy activities) for the general education population and for English Language Learners (ELLs). Analysis of the texts found that while a limited number of reading comprehension and vocabulary strategies and activities were found in each text, half of the texts did not detail how to use the strategies in the classroom or how to differentiate instruction for ELL’s. Thus, collaboration between social studies educators, literacy educators and ESOL educators is needed in order to fully prepare our pre-service teachers to teach across content areas.
Age does not adversely influence outcomes among patients older than 60 years who undergo allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant for AML and myelodysplastic syndrome

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (AHSCT) outcomes data of older AML/myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) patients are limited. We retrospectively evaluated consecutive patients ⩾60 years old with AML/MDS who underwent AHSCT between January 2005 and December 2014. The primary objectives were to determine nonrelapse mortality (NRM), relapse, relapse-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) at 1 year post AHSCT. A total of 159 patients underwent AHSCT with a median age of 64 (range, 60-75) years. Of these, 103 patients (65%) had AML and 56 patients (35%) had MDS. At 1 year post AHSCT, grade III-IV acute GvHD and chronic GvHD occurred in 20.8% (95% confidence interval (CI), 14.9-27.5%) and 54.1% (95% CI, 46.0-61.5%) of patients, respectively. NRM, RFS, relapse rate and OS at 1 year post AHSCT were 25.3% (95% CI, 18.8-32.3%), 53.3% (95% CI, 46.1-61.7%), 21.4% (95% CI, 15.4-28.1%) and 56.4% (95% CI, 49.2-54.7%), respectively. High disease risk index was associated with poor RFS, OS and higher relapse rate (P<0.03), whereas non-thymoglobulin-based GvHD prophylaxis, higher comorbidity index (⩾3) and MDS were associated with higher NRM (P<0.03). Importantly, age did not have an adverse effect on NRM, relapse, RFS and OS. AHSCT was well tolerated. Hence, older age alone should not be considered a contraindication to AHSCT.
History and Development of Robotics in Urology

The first robot was designed and possibly constructed by Leonardo da Vinci around the year 1495. Leonardo’s robot is a nickname given to a humanoid automaton which is believed to be the result of Leonardo’s anatomical research in the Canon of Proportions as described in the Vitruvian Man (Fig. 20.1). The design notes for this model appear in sketchbooks that were rediscovered in the 1950s and this prototype was reconstructed in 2002 and was able to make several human-like motions, including sitting and moving its arms, neck and jaw [1] (Table 20.1).
Radiation pressure in super star cluster formation

The physics of star formation at its extreme, in the nuclei of the densest and the most massive star clusters in the universe - potential massive black hole nurseries - has for decades eluded scrutiny. Spectroscopy of these systems has been scarce, whereas theoretical arguments suggest that radiation pressure on dust grains somehow inhibits star formation. Here, we harness an accelerated Monte Carlo radiation transport scheme to report a radiation hydrodynamical simulation of super star cluster formation in turbulent clouds. We find that radiation pressure reduces the global star formation efficiency by 30-35%, and the star formation rate by 15-50%, both relative to a radiation-free control run. Overall, radiation pressure does not terminate the gas supply for star formation and the final stellar mass of the most massive cluster is $\sim 1.3\times10^6\,M_\odot$. The limited impact as compared to in idealized theoretical models is attributed to a radiation-matter anti-correlation in the supersonically turbulent, gravitationally collapsing medium. In isolated regions outside massive clusters, where the gas distribution is less disturbed, radiation pressure is more effective in limiting star formation. The resulting stellar density at the cluster core is $\ge 10^{8}\,M_{\odot}\,\textrm{pc}^{-3}$, with stellar velocity dispersion $\gtrsim 70\,\text{km}\,\text{s}^{-1}$. We conclude that the super star cluster nucleus is propitious to the formation of very massive stars via dynamical core collapse and stellar merging. We speculate that the very massive star may avoid the claimed catastrophic mass loss by continuing to accrete dense gas condensing from a gravitationally-confined ionized phase.
Port reforms in Latin America and the Caribbean: where we stand, how we got here, and what is left

During the 1960s and 1970s, the port infrastructure in Latin America and the Caribbean was badly maintained and often poorly managed. 1980s onward, technology advances like cargo containerization pushed the maritime transport industry into a fundamental restructuring of its service networks (Guasch et al., Structure, financing and risk management in large port infrastructure concessions: the Chilean case. ITF Round Tables, 103–128, 2015). Most countries in the region carried out port reforms in 1990s and 2000s. This paper reviews the port reforms implemented in the region (specifically Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Chile, Ecuador, Jamaica, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela) over the last three decades. However mostly successful, these reforms have not been fully implemented, and were mainly focused on decentralization of governance and liberalization of the market. There are pending actions that could improve the operation and development of state-owned ports through private sector participation under a proper framework. Countries such as Argentina, Chile, Ecuador, Mexico, and Peru have ports still not concessioned to private operators and are still administered through tool or service models. Hence, there are still some steps to take regarding what was promised in the last reforms. So far only Brazil, Chile, and Mexico positively progress towards a second stage of port reforms. The present paper also shows a high degree of concentration in the public port sector of certain countries. This paper identifies areas to improve when it comes to port governance in the region.
Unified Materials Information System (UMIS): An Integrated Material Stocks and Flows Data Structure

Modern society depends on the use of many diverse materials. Effectively managing these materials is becoming increasingly important and complex, from the analysis of supply chains, to quantifying their environmental impacts, to understanding future resource availability. Material stocks and flows data enable such analyses, but currently exist mainly as discrete packages, with highly varied type, scope, and structure. These factors constitute a powerful barrier to holistic integration and thus universal analysis of existing and yet to be published material stocks and flows data. We present the Unified Materials Information System (UMIS) to overcome this barrier by enabling material stocks and flows data to be comprehensively integrated across space, time, materials, and data type independent of their disaggregation, without loss of information, and avoiding double counting. UMIS can therefore be applied to structure diverse material stocks and flows data and their metadata across material systems analysis methods such as material flow analysis (MFA), input‐output analysis, and life cycle assessment. UMIS uniquely labels and visualizes processes and flows in UMIS diagrams; therefore, material stocks and flows data visualized in UMIS diagrams can be individually referenced in databases and computational models. Applications of UMIS to restructure existing material stocks and flows data represented by block flow diagrams, system dynamics diagrams, Sankey diagrams, matrices, and derived using the economy‐wide MFA classification system are presented to exemplify use. UMIS advances the capabilities with which complex quantitative material systems analysis, archiving, and computation of material stocks and flows data can be performed.
The Effects of Childhood Neglect on Neurological Development

Brain maturation occurs continuously from birth into young adulthood (Carlson, 2013; De Bellis, 2005) with continued modifications throughout life associated with exposure to sensory stimulation and experience (Carlson, 2013; Perry, 2002; Joseph, 1999). However, the early childhood environment plays an integral role in the neurodevelopmental process (Perry, 2002), such that a lack of sensory stimulation and experience (e.g., physical and cognitive neglect) can contribute to adverse neurological functioning. Consequently, altered neurological development associated with an impoverished childhood environment can present in childhood and remain into adulthood (De Bellis, 2005; Glaser, 2000; Joseph, 1999; Perry, 2002).
Satanic Ritual Abuse and Legend Ostension

Folklorists have proposed the term ostension to describe real-life actions that are guided by a pre-existing legend. In its purest form, ostension is the literal acting out of a story in real life....
The Socialization Process for Women with Physical Disabilities: The Impact of Agents and Agencies in the Introduction to an Elite Sport

The sources of people's leisure interests have been a topic of interest for many years. Many of the attitudes people develop towards leisure are the result of social learning and social agents. How...
Impaired Collateral Vessel Formation in Sickle Cell Disease.

Objective—The adaptive response to vascular injury is the formation of functional collateral vessels to maintain organ integrity. Many of the clinical complications associated with sickle cell dise...
Magnetic resonance evaluation of coronary anatomy, first-pass myocardial perfusion and late gadolinium enhancement in children with acquired and congenital heart disease

Background Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) has expanded its role in the diagnosis and management of congenital heart disease and acquired heart disease in children. However, there are limited studies evaluating the role of cardiac magnetic resonance in delineating the anatomy of coronary arteries along with assessment of first pass myocardial perfusion in children. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the extensive use of CMR for delineating coronary anatomy, evaluating first pass myocardial perfusion and late gadolinium enhancement in children with acquired and congenital heart disease.
Parents and Children: Neurogenetic Determinism and Neurogenetic Individuality

Do people choose, and if so what is the influence of parenting and early environment? Behavioral determinism is undone by the observation that children develop with resiliency into individuals who choose their own paths. Good parenting is best understood as a process by which opportunities are opened to children to exercise their unique potentialities and inclinations and overcome their weaknesses. We treat people as free because they are.
Laboratory diagnosis of viral infection.

Since the last Handbook of Clinical Neurology volume on this topic, viral diagnosis has made tremendous strides, moving from the margin to the mainstream of clinical care. For many years, conventional virus isolation was the mainstay of viral diagnosis since it was sensitive and “open-minded.” However, growth in conventional cell culture entails an inherent delay that limits its clinical impact. Although rapid culture and viral antigen methods detect fewer pathogens and are less sensitive than conventional culture, both require less expertise and have greatly reduced time to result. Polymerase chain reaction has ushered in a new era in virology, especially in the diagnosis of neurologic diseases. Molecular amplification methods are rapid, highly sensitive, can be automated, quantitative, and detect viruses not amenable to routine culture. User-friendly, walk-away tests with results in an hour, as well as multiplex tests that can detect 20 viruses in a single reaction, are now a reality. As the variety of test methods and commercial products proliferate, the challenges for clinicians and laboratories are selecting which tests to utilize in which clinical scenarios, and understanding how to interpret the results. The advantages and limitations of each method are discussed in this chapter, with special attention to neurologic disease.
Predictors of Advance Care Planning in Older Women: The Nurses’ Health Study

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Relatively little is known regarding predictors of advance care planning (ACP) in former nurses. We aimed to evaluate potential predictors of ACP documentation and discussion. DESIGN Cross‐sectional study, 2012‐2014. SETTING Nurses’ Health Study. PARTICIPANTS A total of 60,917 community‐dwelling female nurses aged 66 to 93 years living across the United States. MEASUREMENTS Based on self‐reports, participants were categorized as having (1) only ACP documentation, (2) ACP documentation and a recent ACP discussion with a healthcare provider, or (3) neither. Multivariable log‐binomial models were used to estimate prevalence ratios (PRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of the two separate ACP categories vs those with neither. We evaluated various demographic, health, and social factors. RESULTS The large majority (84%) reported ACP documentation; 35% reported a recent ACP discussion. Demographic factors such as age and race were associated with both ACP categories. In multivariable analyses, race was most strongly associated: compared with whites, African Americans were 27% less likely (PR = 0.73; 95% CI = 0.69‐0.78) to report ACP documentation alone and 41% (PR = 0.59; 95% CI = 0.54‐0.66) less likely to report documentation with discussion. Additionally, health/healthcare‐related characteristics were more strongly associated with ACP documentation plus discussion. Women with functional limitations (PR = 1.15; 95% CI = 1.10‐1.20), women who were recently hospitalized (PR: 1.10; 95% CI = 1.08‐1.12) or women who had seen a physician for health symptoms (PR = 1.43; 95% CI = 1.35‐1.52) or screening (PR = 1.40; 95% CI = 1.32‐1.49) were more likely to report having both ACP documentation and discussion. Social factors showed limited relationships with ACP documentation only; for documentation plus discussion, being widowed and living alone was associated with higher prevalence (PR = 1.21; 95% CI = 1.19‐1.24) and having little emotional support was associated with lower prevalence (PR = 0.84; 95% CI = 0.81‐0.86). CONCLUSIONS Among older nurses, most of whom reported having documented ACP, 35% reported recent patient‐clinician ACP discussions, indicating a major participatory gap in an element critical to ACP effectiveness. Even in nurses, African Americans reported less ACP documentation or discussion. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:292–301, 2019.