cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Constancy in an Inconstant World: Moving Beyond Constant Temperatures in the Study of Reptilian Incubation

Variable environmental conditions can alter the phenotype of offspring, particularly in ectothermic species such as reptiles. Despite this, the majority of studies on development in reptiles have been carried out under constant conditions in the laboratory, raising the question of just how applicable those investigations are to natural conditions? Here, we first review what we have learned from these constant-temperature studies. Second, we examine the importance of temperature fluctuations for development in reptiles and highlight the outcomes of studies conducted under fluctuating conditions. Next, we report our findings from a new study that examines how the frequency of fluctuations in temperature experienced during development affects phenotype. Finally, we suggest some areas in need of additional research so that we can better understand the complex interactions of temperature and physiology, particularly in species with temperature-dependent sex determination. For questions aimed at understanding the complex effects of the environment on phenotype, we must move toward studies that better capture environmental variation. By taking such an approach, it may be possible to predict more accurately how these thermally sensitive organisms will respond to environmental perturbations, including climatic change.
Functionally Important Interactions between the Nucleotide-Binding Domains of an Antigenic Peptide Transporter†

The transporter associated with antigen processing (TAP), an ABC transporter, pumps cytosolic peptides into the endoplasmic reticulum, where the peptides are loaded onto class I MHC molecules for presentation to the immune system. Transport is fueled by the binding of ATP to two cytosolic nucleotide-binding domains (NBDs) and ATP hydrolysis. We demonstrate biochemically that there are two electrostatic interactions across the interface between the two TAP NBDs and that these interactions are important for peptide transport. Notably, disrupting these interactions by mutagenesis does not greatly alter the ATP hydrolysis rate in an isolated NBD model system, suggesting that the interactions function at alternative stages in the transport cycle. The data support the general model for ABC transporters in which the NBDs form a tight, closed conformation during transport. Our results are discussed in relation to other ABC transporters that do or do not conserve potential interacting residues of opposite charges at the homologous positions.
Cue-Dominance in Person Perception as a Function of Strength of Perceiver-Need

(1962). Cue-Dominance in Person Perception as a Function of Strength of Perceiver-Need. The Journal of Social Psychology: Vol. 58, No. 2, pp. 305-313.
First Report of Tomato spotted wilt virus in Tomatillo in Florida

), a member of the Solanaceae, has cultural requirements similar to those of tomato and produces an edible, tomato-like fruit that is encased in a papery husk (Fig. 1C). The fruit is frequently used to make relishes and sauces. In the spring of 2004 and 2005, symptoms similar to those induced by the thrips-vectored
Unconstrained handwritten numeral recognition using fuzzy rule-based classifier

The recognition of handwritten characters by computer has been a topic of intensive research for many years. One important branch is the handwritten numeral recognition that has many practical applications; such as mail sorting and bank check reading. Current research approaches generally fall into two categories: global analysis and structure analysis. A human can recognize an unconstrained handwritten numeral easily by simple rule-based judgment. In the paper, the variation in human writing of numerals is treated as sources of fuzziness in the numerals. Fuzzy sets and fuzzy logic are used as bases for representation of fuzzy numerals and for recognition. Only three features, fuzzy orientation, fuzzy curvature and length weight are used as the main features for recognition. This has greatly reduced the complexity of the recognition system. A rule-based fuzzy model is developed as the classifier without any training and defuzzification procedures. The system design and testing detail is discussed in the paper.
Is It Better to Give or to Receive? Social Support and the Well-being of Older Adults

Objectives. This study examines the separate effects of several dimensions of giving and receiving social support on the well-being of older adults, with hypotheses guided by identity theory. Methods. Data derive from the Social Networks in Adult Life survey, a national probability sample of older adults ( N = 689). Ordinary least squares regression was used to examine the impact of total support, size of support network, number of types of support, and types of alter support relationships — both given and received — on well-being. Results. Providing support to others is benefi cial to older adults ’ well-being, as illustrated in the relatively strong, positive associations of total support given, the number of types of support given, and support given to friends and children on well-being. Receiving support was less important to well-being except when received from a spouse or sibling. Conclusion. Evidence from this analysis provides support for hypotheses predicted by identity theory, highlights the importance of examining giving and receiving support net of the other, and suggests that it is often better for the wellbeing of older adults to give than to receive.
A Nearshore Sponge Spicule Mat from the Pennsylvanian of West-Central Indiana

ABSTRACT A thin (3-6) cm) interval in the Perth Limestone Member of the Staunton Formation (Pennsylvanian, Desmoinesian) in Warren County, Indiana, contains abundant small siliceous sponge spicules that form a spicule mat. The limestone is a grain-supported packstone with a micritic matrix, the predominant grains being small sponge spicules that range down to a few micrometers in size. The intermeshed spicules helped support a wide variety of vagile and sessile benthonic marine invertebrates on a lime mud bottom. In contrast to other spiculites that are basinal deposits, the spiculite reported here developed in shallow water, probably no more than 90 feet deep, as part of a cyclothemic sequence that includes coals and fluviatile channel sandstones above and below the Perth.
Porous carbon nanofibers loaded with manganese oxide particles: Formation mechanism and electrochemical performance as energy-storage materials

Mn oxide-loaded porous carbon nanofibers are prepared by electrospinning polyacrylonitrile nanofibers containing different amounts of Mn(CH3COO)2, followed by thermal treatments in different environments. It is found that the manganese salt may transform into γ-Mn(OOH)2 or other Mn compounds during the thermal oxidation in air environment, while further thermal treatment in argon atmosphere results in MnO and Mn3O4 particles confined to a nanoporous carbon structure. Surface morphology, thermal properties and crystal structures are characterized using various analytical techniques to provide insight into the formation mechanism of the porous structure. These Mn oxide-loaded porous carbon composite nanofibers exhibit high reversible capacity, improved cycling performance, and elevated rate capability even at high current rates when used as anodes for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries without adding any polymer binder or electronic conductor.
Coupling Longitudinal Data and Multilevel Modeling to Examine the Antecedents and Consequences of Jealousy Experiences in Romantic Relationships: A Test of the Relational Turbulence Model

We used longitudinal data and multilevel modeling to examine how intimacy, relational uncertainty, and failed attempts at interdependence influence emotional, cognitive, and communicative responses to romantic jealousy, and how those experiences shape subsequent relationship characteristics. The relational turbulence model (Solomon & Knobloch, 2004) highlights how intimacy, relational uncertainty, and interference from partners influence and reflect reactions to events that occur within romantic relationships. Drawing from the theory, we predicted that (a) relational uncertainty and interference from partners are positively associated with cognitive and emotional jealousies; (b) the intensity of romantic jealousy, relational intimacy, and a partner’s interference is positively associated with the directness of communication about jealousy; (c) relational uncertainty is negatively associated with communicative directness; and (d) cognitive jealousy, emotional jealousy, and the directness of communicative responses to jealousy influence subsequent relationship characteristics. The results of the multilevel modeling revealed mixed support for our predictions. We explore the implications of this study for research on the relational turbulence model, relationship development, and jealousy.
Nutrition in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease

Approximately 25% of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have the onset of their disease within the first 2 decades of life. Malnutrition is frequent in patients with IBD, especially those with Crohn’s Disease (CD). Various micronutrient deficiencies also contribute to morbidity in these patients. Liquid nutrition is frequently utilized to manage the group of patients with malnutrition. In pediatric CD, there is considerable evidence to support the use of polymeric formula as exclusive nutrition to induce remission in newly diagnosed patients, as well as in those with relapses. Exclusive enteral nutrition is an attractive alternative to corticosteroids in patients with CD. There is no evidence for using exclusive enteral nutrition for inducing or maintaining remission in patients with UC. We review the nutritional aspects of patients with IBD and the use of liquid enteral nutrition for remission induction in pediatric patients with IBD.
Using Active-Learning Strategies to Increase Pre-Service Teachers’ Efficacy in a Service-Learning Course

Improving pre-service teachers’ ability to recognize work-related problems and apply effective strategies and solutions to fundamental challenges in the field is at the crux of an effective college preparation. Although there is evidence that service-learning experiences within a teacher education course can have powerful effects on student learning, what is being done during the lecture portion of a course to improve the impact of service-learning practices goes largely unexamined. This study investigated whether a contextually developed set of active-learning strategies in the lecture part of a service-learning course improved pre-service teachers’ efficacy. Findings showed significant improvement within personal teaching efficacy constructs as a result of experiencing the active-learning sequence. Academic tracking of students showed that those pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in physical education teacher education benefitted significantly more from the active-learning experience than those pursuing a Bachelor of Science in athletic training. This article describes how the active-learning sequence emerged as a preferred method of instruction by instructors and students, and how these strategies were useful in problematizing teaching situations and engaging students with course content.
Deadbeat Predictive Controllers

Several new computational algorithms are presented to compute the deadbeat predictive control law. The first algorithm makes use of a multi-step-ahead output prediction to compute the control law without explicitly calculating the controllability matrix. The system identification must be performed first and then the predictive control law is designed. The second algorithm uses the input and output data directly to compute the feedback law. It combines the system identification and the predictive control law into one formulation. The third algorithm uses and observable-canonical form realization to design the predictive controller. The relationship between all three algorithms is established through the use of the state-space representation. All algorithms are applicable to multi-input, multi-output systems with disturbance inputs. In addition to the feedback terms, feed forward terms may also be added for disturbance inputs if they are measureable. Although the feedforward terms do not influence the stability of the closed-loop feedback law, they enhance the performance of the controlled system.
Reconceiving the Family: Paying to Stay Home: On Competing Notions of Fairness and the Imputation of Income

The ALI Principles of the Law of Family Dissolution offer a number of considerations to be taken into account when deciding child support issues. This chapter focuses on one kind of case - when income should be imputed to a stay-at-home parent - to illustrate some of the competing interests and rationales which are involved in such decisions. The chapter suggests that while the goals and considerations cited by the ALI are eminently sensible, there is a remarkable looseness of fit between these goals and considerations on the one hand and the actual recommendations on the other. This is regrettable. Because the difficult decisions will not involve whether to consider these competing interests and rationales but how heavily to weigh them, the ALI has offered no helpful guidance to jurisdictions deciding whether or how to modify their child-support policies.
Valvular Heart Disease

Severe valvular disease is identified as a potential “active cardiac condition” in the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) perioperative guidelines, requiring evaluation and management prior to noncardiac surgery. Attention to the type and severity of valvular heart disease during the preoperative visit can help guide perioperative risk assessment and management. Severe aortic stenosis and mitral stenosis are considered to pose the greatest perioperative risk. Distinguishing pathologic from functional murmurs and assessing a patient’s functional status by careful history and exam are the first essential steps. An echocardiogram should be obtained preoperatively if symptoms or exam are concerning for severe valvular disease.
The Performance of Axial-Flow Compressors As Affected by Single-Stage Characteristics

A series of calculations were carried out to obtain the performance of a six-, an eight-, and a 13-stage compressor, each designed for the same tip speed, to handle the same mass flow, and to develop a pressure ratio of 3.2. The simplified analysis was based on experimental cascade and single-stage studies. The effects of boundary-layer growth and distortion of the velocity profiles, which occur at the rear of multistage axial-flow compressors, were neglected.
Portrait of the Online Local News Audience

With resources for local journalism outlets on the decline and the use of digital tools on the rise, there has been greater consideration of the audience among journalists, editors, and foundations. Recent research on news audiences has focused on the industry-driven concern of the impact of technology on news audience practices and routines as well as about the civic journalism concern about the ability of local news to meet critical information needs and to offer space for “public connection.” However, a limited amount of current scholarship addresses a qualitative understanding of the social contexts for local US news audiences’ habits and beliefs. Drawing upon data from six focus groups across three communities, this paper highlights three collective narratives on local news audience practices generated by participants, which we have labeled: (1) self-reliant news consumer, (2) lack of citizen journalism, and (3) continued importance of interpersonal networks. These collective narratives may provide i...
Non-Precious Metals Catalyze Formal [4 + 2] Cycloaddition Reactions of 1,2-Diazines and Siloxyalkynes under Ambient Conditions

Copper(I) and nickel(0) complexes catalyze the formal [4 + 2] cycloaddition reactions of 1,2-diazines and siloxyalkynes, a reaction hitherto best catalyzed by silver salts. These catalysts based on earth abundant metals are not only competent, but the copper catalyst, in particular, promotes cycloadditions of pyrido[2,3-d]pyridazine and pyrido[3,4-d]pyridazine, enabling a new synthesis of quinoline and isoquinoline derivatives, as well as the formal [2 + 2] cycloaddition reaction of cyclohexenone with a siloxyalkyne.
DMP Typ-2-Diabetes – Einschätzung aus hausärztlicher Sicht

DMP als strukturierte Behandlungsablaufe sind wichtig, aber zeigen sie auch immer den gewunschten Effekt? Das DMP Typ-2-Diabetes ist das zeitaufwendigste DMP in der Hausarztpraxis. Es konnen wegen fehlender DMP-Fahigkeit nicht alle Diabetiker erfasst werden. Ausreichende Evaluationen liegen bisher nicht vor. Neue Versorgungsleitlinien fuhren zu einem Umdenken in der Therapie des Typ-2-Diabetes. Der Hausarzt sieht seinen Patienten regelmasig, auch wegen anderer Angelegenheiten. In seiner Lotsenfunktion ist er fur die Langzeitbetreuung (Dokumentation und Koordination) zustandig. Zusammenfassend ist das jetzige DMP Typ-2-Diabetes in der Hausarztpraxis anwendbar. Mittelfristig sollte das DMP sich nicht nur auf labor- und messwertbezogene Daten beziehen, sondern sich auf die geforderten individuellen Behandlungsziele ausrichten.
A Market-Driven Approach to the Design of Platform-Based Product Families

*† ‡ In an effort to meet the diverse needs of today’s highly competitive global marketplace better, many companies are utilizing product families and platform-based product development to increase variety, shorten lead-times, and reduce costs. Current research in the area of product family design mostly focuses on the cost benefits of the platform-based approach and does not sufficiently examine broader enterprise considerations (e.g., profit, market share). Few existing design methods integrate market considerations (e.g., customer preferences, competition) with product development efforts in their formulation. In this work, in addition to integrating market considerations with traditional product family concerns (e.g., modular design, decisions regarding shared parts and processes), the scope of the product family design problem is expanded to include the product line positioning problem, i.e., the problem of determining the appropriate market segment/niche for each product variant in the family. The novel Market-Driven Product Family Design (MPFD) methodology proposed here is introduced to systematically examine the impact of increasing the variety in product offerings across different market segments and explore the cost savings associated with commonality decisions. The demand modeling approach used in this paper models the dissimilar impacts of competition in different market segments and plays a significant role in determining the appropriate platform leveraging strategy. The design of a family of universal motors is used to demonstrate the proposed approach.
Leadership Development and Social Capital: Is There a Relationship?

Significant resources of time, money and expertise are invested in leadership development programs, and networking is often cited as a benefit of participation in these programs. Previous research has traditionally focused on leadership as an individual attribute, but researchers and practitioners are increasingly recognizing leadership as a social process. Social capital has emerged as an important theme in leadership research, and networking and relationship-building are important steps in enhancing social capital. Based on this review of recent literature, I conclude that the relationship between social capital and leadership is well documented, but we have an incomplete understanding of the dynamic nature of this relationship, and lack sufficient evidence to support a causal assertion that one leads to the other. Researchers and practitioners should develop new leadership development program evaluation methods and designs, in the context of social capital, to answer these questions.
A Study of Optimality in Recurrent Decision-Making of Lower-Level Managers

Rational decision-making is essential for the long-term success of any organization. For lower-level managers, much of their experience in decision-making is derived from recurrent decision problem...
Expression of HLA class I molecules assembled with structural variants of human beta2-microglobulin.

Mouse and human beta2-microglobulin (beta2m), which differ by 30% in their primary sequence, give rise to disparate levels of HLA class I heavy chain expression in transfectants of the beta2m-null FO-1 human melanoma cell line, i.e., mouse beta2m directs expression of HLA class I heavy chains that is only approximately 20%-30% of that observed for heavy chains assembled with human beta2m. In this report we describe our efforts to better understand the structural basis of this regulatory phenomenon. Initial insight into the importance of the N-terminus of beta2m on HLA expression came from studies with FO-1 cells transfected with chimeric (human X mouse) B2m genes. Chimeric beta2m molecules containing residues 1-69 from human beta2m and residues 70-99 from mouse beta2m (designated HM- beta2m) induced expression of HLA heavy chains to a significantly greater extent ( approximately 80% of level observed with cognate beta2m) than the reverse chimeric construct (designated MH- beta2m) (10%-15% of level observed with cognate beta2m). These data are consistent with the view that the major determinants of HLA class I heavy chain expression map to the portion of the beta2m molecule which forms the four-stranded beta-pleated sheet, comprised of S1, S2, S4, and S5, and one strand of the three-stranded sheet (S3). The mapping of class I regulatory sites to the portion of beta2m containing the four-stranded beta-pleated sheet supports the interpretation that the heavy chain contact residues on beta2m play the major role in regulating major histocompatibility (MHC) class I expression. To further dissect beta2m-mediated regulation of HLA class I expression, site-directed mutants of beta2m were prepared by conversion of human beta2m to the mouse sequence at individual amino acid positions within the four-stranded and three-stranded beta-pleated sheets. Human to mouse amino acid substitutions were made in each divergent residue between positions 1-66, and as controls for COOH-terminal modification, several residues between positions 75 and 94. Cytofluorometry with HLA class I-specific antibodies indicated that cell surface expression of HLA class I heavy chains was largely insensitive to each of the individual substitutions. It is concluded that a combination of divergent residues mapping to positions of heavy chain contact are responsible for the differences observed in MHC class I expression by heterologous forms of beta2m.
Activity of ß-lactamases against ß-lactams

Resistance mediated by beta-lactamases is an important mechanism which has evolved in both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. There are a large number of different beta-lactamases produced by micro-organisms. Synthesis can be mediated by chromosomes, plasmids, or transposons. Enzyme kinetics for these different beta-lactamases are expressed as affinity of the enzyme for the substrate (1/Km) and rate of hydrolysis of the substrate by the enzyme (Vmax). Such kinetics at physiological concentrations of the enzyme and substrate are important factors in determining the activity of beta-lactam agents. Other factors include the cellular location and amount of enzyme. The clinical importance of subtle differences in beta-lactamase-mediated resistance for both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria is becoming apparent. Antagonism of beta-lactams by beta-lactamases becomes increasingly more important as a resistance mechanism as our knowledge and understanding of this phenomenon grows.
Results of water quality detection in passenger trains of Nanchang Railway Bureau from 2011-2013

[Objective]To understand the sanitary conditions of water quality in passenger trains of Nanchang Railway Bureau,analyze the influencing factors, and put forward the suggestion for improving the water quality of passenger trains.[Methods]According to requirements of railway disease control standards,423 water samples were collected from water tank of86 passenger trains in Nanchang Railway Bureau,at least 5 carriages were sampled form each passenger train,including the dining carriage,couchette and semi-cushioned coach. The detection was performed according to the Standard examination methods for drinking water(GB/T 5750-2006).[Results]288 of 423 water samples were qualified, with the qualified rate of 68.1%.The annual qualified rate in 2011,2012 and 2013 was respectively 64.7%,69.6% and 70.5%,and the difference was not statistically significant. The qualified rate of water quality in temporary passenger trains and fixed-route passenger trains was46.9% and 75.9% respectively, and the difference was statistically significant. The qualified rate of water quality in ordinary-speed trains and high-speed trains was 67.9% and 68.8% respectively,and the difference was not statistically significant. The qualified rate of water quality in dining carriage,couchette and semi-cushioned coach was respectively 83.9%,69.0% and63.4%,and the difference was statistically significant. The qualified rate of water quality during the Spring Festival period and summer vacation was respectively 88.5% and 51.1%,and the difference was statistically significant. The unqualified indexes included total bacterial count,turbidity,visible material by bare eye,chroma,oxygen consumption and total coliform group,which the qualified rate was respectively 76.6%,93.3%,95.7%,97.2%,98.8% and 99.0%.[Conclusion]The qualified rate of water quality in passenger trains of Nanchang Railway Bureau is low,and the total bacterial count is the main factor influenced the water quality. It is necessary to carry out the cleaning and disinfection in water tank of passenger trains,especially during the summer vacation,and strengthen the cleaning and disinfection of water tank before service,especially temporary passenger trains.
Molecular Analysis of Genetic Instability Caused by Chronic Inflammation

Genetic instability is a hallmark of human cancers. It is the driving force for tumor development as it facilitates the accumulation of mutations in genes that regulate cell death and proliferation and therefore promotes malignant transformation. Chronic inflammation is a common underlying condition for human tumor development, accounting for approximately 20% of human cancers. TNFalpha is an important inflammation cytokine and is crucial to the development of inflammation-associated cancers. We have shown that TNFalpha can cause DNA damages through reactive oxygen species (ROS). TNFalpha treatment in cultured cells resulted in increased gene mutations, gene amplification, micronuclei formation and chromosomal instability. Antioxidants significantly reduced TNFalpha-induced genetic damage. In addition, TNFalpha treatment alone led to increased malignant transformation of mouse embryo fibroblasts, which could be partially suppressed by antioxidants. Therefore, genetic instability plays an important role in inflammation-associated cancers.
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis in Pathology

Cost-effectiveness analysis has become increasingly important in all areas of medicine. This article provides an overview of cost-effectiveness analysis, the limitations of cost-effectiveness analyses in the current anatomic pathology literature, and the benefits of performing cost-effectiveness analysis. The standards of good cost-effectiveness studies and a detailed evaluation of an anatomic pathology cost-effectiveness article are also discussed.
Diagnostic accuracy of intra-abdominal fluid collection characterization in the era of multidetector computed tomography.

The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that with improved technology, the presence of abscess in a postoperative fluid collection may be prospectively made. This is an Institutional R...
Gender differences in craving and internalizing symptoms in methamphetamine dependence

F344E> F344C p< .001). Phase 3: After the end of S-equol treatment, HIV-1 Tg rats showed less sensitivity and response vigor than F344 and there was an increased sensitivity to cocaine regardless of genotype. Conclusions: Chronic exposure of the brain to HIV-1 viral proteins altered responding to cocaine. Active S-equol treatment had beneficial effects on sensitivity to cocaine, but a prior history of S-equol per se did not maintain the therapeutic benefit. Financial support: DA013137, HD043680, DA031604, GM081740
Masses of 78 Ge and 78 As

Precise measurements of ground-state $Q$ values for $^{76}\mathrm{Ge}$($t$,$p$)$^{78}\mathrm{Ge}$(6310\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}5 keV) and $^{80}\mathrm{Se}$($d$,$\ensuremath{\alpha}$)$^{78}\mathrm{As}$(5755\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}12 keV) result in mass excesses of - 71 861\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}6 keV for $^{78}\mathrm{Ge}$ and - 72 805\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}13 keV for $^{78}\mathrm{As}$, both of which are much more precise than previous values.
Serotonin 5-HT 1C Receptors: What Do They Do?

Few, if any, receptor systems have moved from initial discovery to detailed molecular characterization as quickly as the serotonin 5-HT1C receptor. This rapid progress was triggered by the timely coincidence of a series of discoveries and developments, some taken from quite different fields of science, culminating in the recent molecular cloning of this receptor. These findings will be recounted in roughly historical order in this short review, with an emphasis on functional responses of the 5-HT1C receptor.
Impact of clinical input variable uncertainties on ten-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk using new pooled cohort equations.

Recently released American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) guideline recommends the Pooled Cohort equations for evaluating atherosclerotic cardiovascular risk of individuals. The impact of the clinical input variable uncertainties on the estimates of ten-year cardiovascular risk based on ACC/AHA guidelines is not known. Using a publicly available the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey dataset (2005–2010), we computed maximum and minimum ten-year cardiovascular risks by assuming clinically relevant variations/uncertainties in input of age (0–1 year) and ±10 % variation in total-cholesterol, high density lipoprotein- cholesterol, and systolic blood pressure and by assuming uniform distribution of the variance of each variable. We analyzed the changes in risk category compared to the actual inputs at 5 % and 7.5 % risk limits as these limits define the thresholds for consideration of drug therapy in the new guidelines. The new-pooled cohort equations for risk estimation were implemented in a custom software package. Based on our input variances, changes in risk category were possible in up to 24 % of the population cohort at both 5 % and 7.5 % risk boundary limits. This trend was consistently noted across all subgroups except in African American males where most of the cohort had ≥7.5 % baseline risk regardless of the variation in the variables. The uncertainties in the input variables can alter the risk categorization. The impact of these variances on the ten-year risk needs to be incorporated into the patient/clinician discussion and clinical decision making. Incorporating good clinical practices for the measurement of critical clinical variables and robust standardization of laboratory parameters to more stringent reference standards is extremely important for successful implementation of the new guidelines. Furthermore, ability to customize the risk calculator inputs to better represent unique clinical circumstances specific to individual needs would be highly desirable in the future versions of the risk calculator.
Why Myofascial Release is Unique

(1996). Why Myofascial Release is Unique. Clinical Bulletin of Myofascial Therapy: Vol. 2, No. 1, pp. 43-46.
Switching performance and efficiency investigation of GaN based DC-DC Buck converter for low voltage and high current applications

The Wide band-gap (WBG) materials “such as Silicon Carbide (SiC) and Gallium nitride (GaN)” based power switching devices provide higher performance capabilities compared to Si-based power switching devices. The wide band-gap materials based power switching devices outperform Si-based devices in many performance characteristics such as: low witching loss, low conduction loss, high switching frequencies, and high operation temperature. GaN based switching devices benefit a lot of applications such as: future electric vehicles and solar power inverters. In this paper, a DC-DC Buck converter based on GaN FET for low voltage and high current applications is designed and investigated. The converter is designed for stepping down a voltage of 48V to 12V with high switching frequency. The capability of the GaN FET based buck converter is studied and compared to equivalent SiC MOSFET and Si-based MOSFET buck converters. The analysis of switching losses and efficiency was performed to compare the performance capabilities of GaN FET, SiC MOSFET and Si-based MOSFET. The results showed that the overall switching losses of GaN FET are lower than that of SiC and Si-based power switching devices. Also, the performance capability of GaN devices with higher frequencies is studied. GaN devices with high frequencies will reduce the total size and the cost of the power converter. In Addition, the overall efficiency of the DC-DC Buck converter is higher with the GaN FET switching devices, which make it more suitable for low voltage and high current applications.
Mechanoluminescence Based Structural Health Monitoring Technique for Elastomeric Components

Light emission induced by mechanical input, termed mechanoluminescence (ML), has been gaining widespread attention recently. Various theories have been put forth over the years identifying sources and mechanisms behind ML. Several applications utilizing ML such as stress sensing, stress visualization, surface crack propagation detection and environmental friendly light source have been put forth. Despite promising results, large scale implementation of ML based sensing and visualization technologies for industrial applications is yet to be achieved. In this conference paper, we demonstrate a structural health monitoring technique utilizing mechanoluminescence emission that is low power, in-situ and easily scalable for industrial applications. Flexible elastomeric composite coupons impregnated with ML crystals subjected to constant cyclical loading up to millions of cycles. ML emission from the coupons is used to track the strain in the coupon over time. Variations in strain are then correlated to variations in stiffness of the coupon over time thereby monitoring its structural health. We also predict the failure of the coupons based on ML intensity. A pseudo-algorithm that tracks ML intensity and predicts failure ahead in time is also put forth facilitating convenient scale-up for industrial applications.Copyright © 2016 by ASME
Polymer dynamics of Alp7A reveals two ‘critical’ concentrations that govern dynamically unstable actin-like proteins

Dynamically unstable polymers capture and move cellular cargos in both bacteria and eukaryotes, but the regulation of their assembly remains poorly understood. Here we describe polymerization of Alp7A, a bacterial Actin-Like Protein (ALP) that segregates the low copy-number plasmid pLS20 in Bacillus subtilis. Purified Alp7A forms dynamically unstable polymers with two critical points: an intrinsic critical concentration (0.6 μM), observed when ATP hydrolysis is blocked, and a dynamic critical concentration (10.3 μM), observed when ATP hydrolysis occurs. From biochemical and kinetic analysis, the intrinsic critical concentration reflects a balance between filament elongation and shortening, while the dynamic critical concentration reflects a balance between filament nucleation and catastrophic disassembly. Although Alp7A does not form stable polymers at physiological concentrations, rapid nucleation by an accessory factor, Alp7R, decreases the dynamic critical concentration into the physiological range. Intrinsic and dynamic critical concentrations are fundamental parameters that can be used to describe the behavior of all dynamically unstable polymers.
In pursuit of novelty: A decentralized approach to subspace clustering

This paper considers the subspace clustering problem in a decentralized setting. The core algorithm finds directions of novelty in the span of the data to identify the membership of a collection of distributed data points. The low rank structure of the full M 1 × M 2 data matrix D is exploited to substantially reduce the processing and communication overhead. Two decentralized designs are presented. In the first design, each agent/sensor sends a compressed version of its data vector to a central processing unit, which applies the clustering algorithm to the compressed data vectors. In the second design, only a small random subset of the agents send their compressed data vectors to the central unit and the clustering algorithm is applied to the sampled compressed data vectors. It is shown that the gain in communication overhead of the first and second decentralized designs relative to the centralized solution is of order O(M 1 /r) and O(M 1 M 2 /r 2 +M 2 ), respectively, where r is the rank of D.
A framework for sizing an automated distribution center in a retail supply chain

Abstract Due to the recent emergence of a new generation of distribution center (DC) automation systems, there is a growing interest in DC automation in the retail industry. The investment decision related to this new class of DCs is financially and operationally significant. In this paper, we present a framework for sizing a full-case automated DC – a key step in the investment evaluation. We investigate the sizing issue at three levels: strategic, technology, and operations level. The approach informs systematic decision-making for sizing automated DCs. Moreover, we find little published research in context of sizing full-case technology DCs. We evaluate strategic, design, and operational issues for three key modules: regular case handling system (RCHS), non-regular case handling system (IRCHS), and less-than case handling system (LCHS). We employ discrete event simulation as a tool for an aggregate-level modeling and analysis. We develop an approach to sizing each module, develop characteristic curves for critical equipment for each module, and also size the key buffers. These tools and results could be used by retailers to make sizing estimates for equipment, trade-off between equipment, and for DC layout design.
Chronic conditions in adolescents (Review)

The health problems related to the nervous system are on rise in young infants leading to high mortality amongst this age group. A chronic medical condition (CC) is present in this age group to the tune of 10-20%. We searched the electronic database PubMed for pre-clinical as well as clinical controlled trials reporting variable chronic conditions especially in pediatric patients. Most of these reports revealed that type 1 diabetes mellitus is the most common CC in young infants. In female patients, metabolic control is often disturbed during CC in this age group. Poor metabolism regulation often results in long-term complications, including cognitive disorders. In cognitive disorders, memory loss and learning problems are the most among adolescents. Executive problems are observed to be associated with low physical activities. The review article concludes that knowledge about factors influencing treatment adherence is crucial in chronically ill infants. Further, we should focus on protective factors in order to prevent health risk behavior.
"I am not a friend to men": Embodiment and desire in Magnus Hirschfeld's Transvestites case studies.

This article reads sexological case studies of the fin-de siecle that contain accounts of trans women's lives in the period. It argues that these sources contradict the diagnostic criteria that doctors determine as the factors that define trans feminine identity in the period: desire for men, social isolation, and tortured bodily dissatisfaction. Chief among these contradictions is the prevalence of the expression of trans women's desire for women and easy participation in women's social and kinship networks. Therefore, this article considers these narratives to be a crucial and overlooked resource for considering the breadth of lesbian identity and sociality in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century.
Characterization and Quantitation of Human Hepatic Estrogen Receptor

Abstract Because the liver is an estrogen-sensitive organ and such sensitivity necessitates the presence of an hepatic estrogen receptor, we assayed whole human liver cytosol for the presence of estrogen receptor. Scatchard plot analysis of specific [3H]diethylstilbestrol binding to whole human liver cytosol from both sexes demonstrated hormone binding that is of high affinity (Kd = 10−10M) and low capacity (1–10 fmol/mg cytosol protein), and that is saturable and specific for steroidal and nonsteroidal estrogens, but not for other steroids. The protein can be further characterized as an estrogen receptor by its binding to heparin-Sepharose. In addition, gel filtration chromatography of [3H]estrogen-labeled cytosol on Sephadex G-100 indicates that potentially contaminating proteins, such as albumin and sex-steroid-binding globulin, do not bind [3H]estrogen in whole cytosol. We conclude that human liver from both sexes has estrogen receptor and that the presence of estrogen receptor in human liver explains the sensitivity of the human liver to estrogen.
Nutritional Ecology and Reproductive Output in Female Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes): Variation Among and Within Populations

The efficiency with which animals procure calories and nutrients affects their growth, survival, and reproductive success (Bercovitch 1987; Altmann 1991, 1998; Koenig et al. 1997; Borries et al. 2001). In female primates, foraging efficiency may be a primary regulator of ovarian function, thus influencing the probability of conception and the duration of lactational amenorrhea (Knott 1998; Bentley 1999; Di Bitetti and Janson 2000; Brockman and van Schaik 2005). In particular, theoretical and empirical work has demonstrated that the quality and abundance of resources available and/or utilized during periods of relative food scarcity can have profound impacts on socioecology and population dynamics. Recently, attempts have been made to provide operational definitions of such resources (“fallback foods”; Lambert 2007; Marshall and Wrangham 2007; Marshall et al. 2009) and to generate testable hypotheses regarding their influence on primate ecology and evolution (see Potts et al. 2009; Harrison and Marshall 2011).
No place for indifference: poetry therapy and empowerment in clinical, educational, and community practice*

ABSTRACTThe place of poetry therapy in advancing social justice is the primary focus of this article. Mazza's R.E.S. model of poetry therapy is used as the foundation to speak to the power of langu...
Modulation of Asymmetric Division Diversity through Cytokinin and SPEECHLESS Regulatory Interactions in the Arabidopsis Stomatal Lineage.

Coordinated growth of organs requires communication among cells within and between tissues. In plants, leaf growth is largely dictated by the epidermis; here, asymmetric and self-renewing divisions of the stomatal lineage create two essential cell types—pavement cells and guard cells—in proportions reflecting inputs from local, systemic, and environmental cues. The transcription factor SPEECHLESS (SPCH) is the prime regulator of divisions, but whether and how it is influenced by external cues to provide flexible development is enigmatic. Here, we show that the phytohormone cytokinin (CK) can act as an endogenous signal to affect the extent and types of stomatal lineage divisions and forms a regulatory circuit with SPCH. Local domains of low CK signaling are created by SPCH-dependent cell-type-specific activity of two repressive type-A ARABIDOPSIS RESPONSE REGULATORs (ARRs), ARR16 and ARR17, and two secreted peptides, CLE9 and CLE10, which, together with SPCH, can customize epidermal cell-type composition.
Spatial Aggregation Facilitates Discovery of Spatial Topics.

Spatial aggregation refers to merging of documents created at the same spatial location. We show that by spatial aggregation of a large collection of documents and applying a traditional topic discovery algorithm on the aggregated data we can efficiently discover spatially distinct topics. By looking at topic discovery through matrix factorization lenses we show that spatial aggregation allows low rank approximation of the original document-word matrix, in which spatially distinct topics are preserved and non-spatial topics are aggregated into a single topic. Our experiments on synthetic data confirm this observation. Our experiments on 4.7 million tweets collected during the Sandy Hurricane in 2012 show that spatial and temporal aggregation allows rapid discovery of relevant spatial and temporal topics during that period. Our work indicates that different forms of document aggregation might be effective in rapid discovery of various types of distinct topics from large collections of documents.
Configurations with Nonuniform Distribution

In this chapter we discuss the following generalization of the minimal discrete energy problem. Let \((\subset \mathbb {R})\) be compact metric space and let \(w:A\times A\rightarrow [0,\infty ]\) be a given function which we will call the weight. For a given N-point configuration \(\omega _N=\{x_1,\ldots , x_N\}\) on A and a given number \(s>0\), define the (w, s)-energy of \(\omega _N\) by \( E^w_s(\omega _N):=\sum \limits _{i=1}^{N}\sum \limits _{j=1\atop j\ne i}^{N}\frac{w(x_i, x_j)}{|x_i - x_j|^s}. \)
Explanatory Model for Asthma Disparities in Latino Children: Results from the Latino Childhood Asthma Project.

BACKGROUND Little research has been conducted that integrates, in one explanatory model, the multitude of factors potentially leading to disparities among Latino children. PURPOSE A longitudinal, observational study tested an explanatory model for disparities in asthma control between Mexican and Puerto Rican children with persistent asthma requiring daily controller medication use. METHODS Mexican and Puerto Rican children aged 5-12 years (n = 267) and their caregivers (n = 267) were enrolled and completed interviews and child spirometry at baseline and 3, 6, 9, and 12 months postenrollment. A 12 month retrospective children's medical record review was completed. Participants were recruited from two school-based health clinics and the Breathmobile in Phoenix, AZ, and two inner-city hospital asthma clinics in the Bronx, NY. RESULTS Statistically significant differences in the social/contextual predictors of asthma illness representations (IRs) were noted between Mexican and Puerto Rican caregivers. The structural equation model results revealed differences in asthma control over time by ethnicity. This model accounted for 40%-48% of the variance in asthma control test scores over 12 months. Caregivers' IRs aligned with the professional model of asthma management were associated with better children's asthma control across 1 year. These results also supported the theoretical notion that IRs change over time impacting caregivers' treatment decisions and children's asthma control. CONCLUSIONS These findings extend a previous cross-sectional model test using a more comprehensive model and longitudinal data and highlight the importance of considering within-group differences for diagnosis and treatment of children coming from the vastly heterogeneous Latino umbrella group. TRIAL REGISTRATION Trial number NCT01099800.
Health-Related Quality of Life

Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that is associated with reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This impact is over and above that associated with comorbid conditions. Insomnia treatments lead to improvements in HRQoL but the changes tend to be small in magnitude on average.