cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Stone comminution correlates with the average peak pressure incident on a stone during shock wave lithotripsy

To investigate the roles of lithotripter shock wave (LSW) parameters and cavitation in stone comminution, a series of in vitro fragmentation experiments have been conducted in water and 1,3-butanediol (a cavitation-suppressive fluid) at a variety of acoustic field positions of an electromagnetic shock wave lithotripter. Using field mapping data and integrated parameters averaged over a circular stone holder area (R(h)=7 mm), close logarithmic correlations between the average peak pressure (P(+(avg))) incident on the stone (D=10 mm BegoStone) and comminution efficiency after 500 and 1000 shocks have been identified. Moreover, the correlations have demonstrated distinctive thresholds in P(+(avg)) (5.3 MPa and 7.6 MPa for soft and hard stones, respectively), that are required to initiate stone fragmentation independent of surrounding fluid medium and LSW dose. These observations, should they be confirmed using other shock wave lithotripters, may provide an important field parameter (i.e., P(+(avg))) to guide appropriate application of SWL in clinics, and facilitate device comparison and design improvements in future lithotripters.
Lattice QCD at non-zero isospin chemical potential

Systems of non-zero isospin chemical potential are studied from a canonical approach by computing correlation functions with the quantum numbers of N π+'s (CNπ). In order to reduce the number of contractions required in calculating CNπ for a large N in the Wick's theorem, we constructed a few new algorithms. With these new algorithms, systems with isospin charge up to 72 are investigated on three anisotropic gauge ensembles with a pion mass of 390 MeV, and with lattice spatial extents L ~ 2.0, 2.5, 3.0 fm. The largest isospin density of ρI ≈ 9 fm−3 is achieved in the smallest volume, and the QCD phase diagram is investigated at a fixed low temperature at varying isospin chemical potentials, mπ ≤ μI ≤ 4.5 mπ. By investigating the behaviour of the extracted energy density of the system at different isospin chemical potentials, we numerically identified the conjectured transition to a Bose-Einstein condensation state at μI ≥ mπ.
PREPARATION OF SOME KETOORGANOSTANNANES AND KETOORGANOCHLOROSTANNANES, INTRAMOLECULAR COORDINATION IN KETOORGANOCHLOROSTANNANES

Abstract Ketoorganostannanes of the structure Me3Sn(CH2)n COR with n = 2,3 and R = Me, Ph have been prepared by the oxidation of the corresponding alcohols, and by the reaction of the appropriate cyanoalkyltrimethylstannanes with methyl or phenyl Grignard reagents. The ketoorganostannanes have been converted to the chloro analogs Me2Sn(Cl)(CH2)nCOR by methyl-chlorine exchange with trimethyltin chloride. The reactions with these ketones are considerably faster than that with n-butyltrimethylstannane, suggesting that intramolecular nucleophilic catalysis of an electrophilic displacement reaction occurs. Evidence that the ketoorganochlorostannanes have a structure involving intramolecular coordination between the carbonyl oxygen and the tin is provided by studies of the infrared, ultraviolet, proton and carbon-13 magnetic resonance, and Mossbauer spectra. Pyridine is shown to compete with intramolecular carbonyl in coordination to the chlorotin function, the effect being more pronounced when n = 3 than when n = 2, reflecting the greater stability of the five-membered ring complex.
Situated Design: A Space for Interaction and "Reading"

ABSTRACTWhile the act of reading engages a reader through intense interiorization and reflection, reading is placed within more exteriorized social contexts through ubiquitous computing, networking and densely designed public spaces. The proliferation of these contexts elaborate and compete with the primacy of a traditional reader's experience with a codex.Using semantic/episodic/procedural ideas of cognition as a framework, this paper develops “situational design” as a conceptual basis for looking at a reader's/participant's experiences as a user. Three design case studies are examined that develop practical concepts for understanding users. They are used to outline processes and methods applied from semantic and episodic experiences, the use of “point of view” and audience discourse, and, lastly, integration of concepts of image schemata (Lakoff and Johnson 1999) applied to motion/interaction in the comprehension of information.
Teaching new perspectives: digital space and Flash interactivity

Abstract This paper presents an approach to teaching interactive digital design that fuses traditional cinematic techniques in the treatment of screen space with the programming capabilities of Macromedia Flash to create web-based narrative systems that allow the user to create a unique and emotionally rewarding experience from a set of provided data ingredients. In this context designers are more like architects than authors, constructing a database of narrative possibilities that exist within the framework of a conceptual environment. By linking the elements of this database, the user can discover and co-author the narrative, generating a unique work that subverts the passive, voyeuristic role in which audiences experience traditional time-based narrative media and reshaping the relationship between the designer and user. In forming this relationship designers must link narrative and spatial considerations with design functionality that is grounded in the subjective elements of the user experience rathe...
Purification and characterization of 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate synthase from etiolated mung bean hypocotyls

1-Aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate (ACC) synthase, EC 4.4.1.14, was purified to homogeneity from etiolated mung bean hypocotyl segments. This was made possible by the ability to elevate the enzyme level markedly through hormone treatments and by stabilization of the enzyme with high phosphate concentrations. The four-step procedure resulted in 1050-fold purification with 25% yield, and consisted of stepwise elution from hydroxylapatite, chromatography on phenyl-Sepharose CL-4B, gradient elution from hydroxylapatite, and fast protein liquid chromatography (FPLC) on a MonoQ anion-exchange column. FPLC-purified ACC synthase migrated as a single band of Mr 65,000 on denaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The molecular weight of native enzyme by Bio-Gel A-0.5 M chromatography was 125,000, indicating that the enzyme probably exists as a dimer of identical 65,000 Mr subunits. The mung bean ACC synthase exhibited a pH optimum of 8.0 for activity and a Km for S-adenosylmethionine (AdoMet) of 55 microM at 30 degrees C. It exhibited an Arrhenius activation energy of 12 kcal mol-1 degree-1 and was inactivated at temperatures in excess of 40 degrees C. The specific activity for pure ACC synthase was 21 mumol of ACC formed/mg protein/h when determined under optimal conditions with 400 microM AdoMet.
A cross-country comparison of secondhand smoke exposure among adults: findings from the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS)

Objective Exposure to secondhand smoke (SHS) from burning tobacco products causes disease and premature death among non-smoking adults and children. The objective of this study was to determine the nature, extent and demographic correlates of SHS exposure among adults in low- and middle-income countries with a high burden of tobacco use. Methods Data were obtained from the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS), a nationally representative household survey of individuals 15 years of age or older. Interviews were conducted during 2008–2010 in Bangladesh, Brazil, China, Egypt, India, Mexico, the Philippines, Poland, Russia, Thailand, Turkey, Ukraine, Uruguay and Vietnam. Descriptive statistics were used to determine the prevalence and correlates of SHS exposure in homes, workplaces, government buildings, restaurants, public transportation and healthcare facilities. Results Exposure to SHS in the home ranged from 17.3% (Mexico) to 73.1% (Vietnam). Among those who work in an indoor area outside the home, SHS exposure in the workplace ranged from 16.5% (Uruguay) to 63.3% (China). Exposure to SHS ranged from 6.9% (Uruguay) to 72.7% (Egypt) in government buildings, 4.4% (Uruguay) to 88.5% (China) in restaurants, 5.4% (Uruguay) to 79.6% (Egypt) on public transportation, and 3.8% (Uruguay) to 49.2% (Egypt) in healthcare facilities. Conclusions A large proportion of adults living in low- and middle-income countries are exposed to SHS in their homes, workplaces, and other public places. Countries can enact and enforce legislation requiring 100% smoke-free public places and workplaces, and can also conduct educational initiatives to reduce SHS exposure in homes.
Immunologic and Metabolic Biomarkers of β-Cell Destruction in the Diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes (T1D), also known as insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, is a chronic disorder that results from autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing β cells in the islets of Langerhans within the pancreas ( Atkinson and Maclaren 1994). This disease becomes clinically apparent only after significant destruction of the β-cell mass, which reduces the ability to maintain glycemic control and metabolic function. In addition, it continues for years after clinical onset until, generally, there is complete destruction of insulin secretory capacity. Because prevention and therapy strategies are targeted to this pathologic process, it becomes imperative to have methods with which it can be monitored. This work discusses current research-based approaches to monitor the autoimmunity and metabolic function in T1D patients and their potential for widespread clinical application.
Lessons learned from studies of the standard exercise ECG test.

M otivated by recent systematic reviews of diagnostic tests for coronary artery disease (CAD) and a renewed interest in applying tests for screening healthy individuals, we felt it timely to review the lessons learned from past experience. Since the standard exercise test has been studied for some time, it provides a wealth of experience in this regard. Four major mistakes have been made when evaluating the diagnostic characteristics of the exercise test: (1) choosing subjects for test evaluation who represent a limited challenge to the diagnostic performance of the test; (2) not limiting the amount of workup bias in identifying patients for test evaluation; (3) utilizing soft end points instead of hard end points; and (4) using surrogates instead of an appropriate “gold standard.” We will step through each of these errors and provide illustrations for each. In a closing section, we will compare most of the diagnostic techniques that are available for CAD to the exercise test. Limited Challenge
Use Of Zernike Polynomials And Interferometry In The Optical Design And Assembly Of Large Carbon-Dioxide Laser Systems

This paper describes the need for non-raytracing schemes in the optical design and analysis of large carbon-dioxide lasers like the Gigawatt,1 Gemini, 2 and Helios3 lasers currently operational at Los Alamos, and the Antares 4 laser fusion system under construction. The scheme currently used at Los Alamos involves characterizing the various optical components with a Zernike polynomial sets obtained by the digitization6 of experimentally produced interferograms of the components. A Fast Fourier Transform code then propagates the complex amplitude and phase of the beam through the whole system and computes the optical parameters of interest. The analysis scheme is illustrated through examples of the Gigawatt, Gemini, and Helios systems. A possible way of using the Zernike polynomials in optical design problems of this type is discussed. Comparisons between the computed values and experimentally obtained results are made and it is concluded that this appears to be a valid approach. As this is a review article, some previously published results are also used where relevant.© (1982) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Locally advanced paraganglioma of the urinary bladder: a case report

Paraganglioma of the urinary bladder is a rare tumor. Herein we sought to describe a case of locally advanced paraganglioma of the urinary bladder managed by partial cystectomy and extended pelvic lymph node dissection. The case of a 43-year old Haitian male with locally advanced paraganglioma of the urinary bladder is presented in detail. Through surgical extirpation, our patient was rendered disease-free. Eighteen months later the patient is doing well without symptoms but is noted to have subcentimeter bilateral pulmonary nodules and retroperitoneal lymph nodes. No further therapy has been initiated at this time. Patients with localized tumors have an extremely favorable prognosis and may be managed by less aggressive modalities, whereas patients with metastatic disease have a significant reduced survival rate despite aggressive treatment.
Metformin impairs Rho GTPase signaling to induce apoptosis in neuroblastoma cells and inhibits growth of tumors in the xenograft mouse model of neuroblastoma

Metformin has been shown to inhibit tumor growth in xenograft rodent models of adult cancers, and various human clinical trials are in progress. However, the precise molecular mechanisms of metformin action are largely unknown. In the present study we examined the anti-tumor activity of metformin against neuroblastoma, and determined the underlying signaling mechanisms. Using human neuroblastoma xenograft mice, we demonstrated that oral administration of metformin (100 and 250 mg/kg body weight) significantly inhibited the growth of tumors. The interference of metformin in spheroid formation further confirmed the anti-tumor activity of metformin. In tumors, the activation of Rac1 (GTP-Rac1) and Cdc42 (GTP-Cdc42) was increased while RhoA activation (GTP-RhoA) was decreased by metformin. It also induced phosphorylation of JNK and inhibited the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 without affecting p38 MAP Kinase. Infection of cells by adenoviruses expressing dominant negative Rac1 (Rac1-N17), Cdc42 (Cdc42-N17) or constitutively active RhoA (RhoA-V14), or incubation of cells with pharmacological inhibitors of Rac1 (NSC23766) or Cdc42 (ML141) significantly protected neuroblastoma cells from metformin-induced apoptosis. Additionally, inhibition of JNK activity along with Rac1 or Cdc42 attenuated cytotoxic effects of metformin. These studies demonstrated that metformin impairs Rho GTPases signaling to induce apoptosis via JNK pathway.
Dietary α- and γ-tocopherol supplementation attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced oxidative stress and inflammatory-related responses in an obese mouse model of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis

Oxidative stress contributes towards the development of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Thus, antioxidants may decrease oxidative stress and ameliorate the events contributing to NASH. We hypothesized that α- or γ-tocopherol would protect against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-triggered NASH in an obese (ob/ob) mouse model. Five-week-old obese mice (n=18/dietary treatment) were provided 15 mg/kg each of α- and γ-tocopherol or 500 mg/kg of α- or γ-tocopherol for 5-weeks. Then, all mice were injected ip once with LPS (250 μg/kg) before being sacrificed at 0, 1.5 or 6 h. Body weight and hepatic steatosis were unaffected by tocopherols and LPS. Hepatic α- and γ-tocopherol increased (P<.05) ~9.8- and 10-fold in respective tocopherol supplemented mice and decreased in response to LPS. LPS increased serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) by 86% at 6 h and each tocopherol decreased this response by 29-31%. By 6 h, LPS increased hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) and tumor necrosis factor-α by 81% and 44%, respectively, which were decreased by α- or γ-tocopherol. Serum ALT was correlated (P<.05) to hepatic tumor necrosis factor-α (r=0.585) and MDA (r=0.592), suggesting that inflammation and lipid peroxidation contributed to LPS-triggered hepatic injury. α- and γ-Tocopherol similarly attenuated LPS-triggered increases in serum free fatty acid, and α-tocopherol only maintained the LPS-triggered serum triacylglycerol responses at 6 h. These findings indicate that increasing hepatic α- or γ-tocopherol protected against LPS-induced NASH by decreasing liver damage, lipid peroxidation, and inflammation without affecting body mass or hepatic steatosis. Further study is needed to define the mechanisms by which these tocopherols protected against LPS-triggered NASH.
Mothering, crime, and incarceration

This article examines the relationships between mothering, crime, and incarceration through the narratives of thirty women incarcerated in a southwestern county jail. The responsibilities of child care, combined with the burdens of economic marginality and domestic violence, led some women to choose economic crimes or drug dealing as an alternative to hunger and homelessness. Other women, arrested for drug- or alcohol-related crimes, related their offenses to the psychological pain and despair resulting from loss of custody of their children. Many women were incarcerated for minor probation violations that often related to the conflict between work, child care, and probation requirements. For all women with children, mothering represented both the burdens of an unequal sexual division of labor and opportunities for resistance to marginalization and hopelessness.
Immunogenicity and adjuvanticity of lipopolysaccharide from Legionella pneumophila.

AbstractLipopolysaccharide isolated from Legionella pneumophila was found to be a potent antigen and inducer of antibody with strong adjuvant activity for related and unrelated antigens such as sheep erythrocytes by in vivo and in vitro systems. The LPS was also a potent stimulator of blastogenic responses by spleen cells from normal mice as well as from mice immunized with inactivated whole cells of Legionella. It strongly stimulated production of interferon and interleukin 1. These results indicate that the LPS of Legionella may be an important immune regulator in the host reponse.
Conjugate gradient sparse solvers: performance-power characteristics

We characterize the performance and power attributes of the conjugate gradient (CG) sparse solver which is widely used in scientific applications. We use cycle-accurate simulations with SimpleScalar and Wattch, on a processor and memory architecture similar to the configuration of a node of the BlueGene/L. We first demonstrate that substantial power savings can be obtained without performance degradation if low power modes of caches can be utilized. We next show that if Dynamic Voltage Scaling (DVS) can be used, power and energy savings are possible, but these are realized only at the expense of performance penalties. We then consider two simple memory subsystem optimizations, namely memory and level-2 cache prefetching. We demonstrate that when DVS and low power modes of caches are used with these optimizations, performance can be improved significantly with reductions in power and energy. For example, execution time is reduced by 23%, power by 55% and energy by 65% in the final configuration at 500 MHz relative to the original at 1 GHz. We also use our codes and the CG NAS benchmark code to demonstrate that performance and power profiles can vary significantly depending on matrix properties and the level of code tuning. These results indicate that architectural evaluations can benefit if traditional benchmarks are augmented with codes more representative of tuned scientific applications.
The effect of thermal massage on T-lymphocytes and natural killer cell function

The purpose of this pilot study was to assess the effect of thermomechanical massage on human immune cell function. Immunological studies were performed on 10 healthy volunteers (average age: 24 years). Subjects were asked to lie on a thermomechanical massage device (TMD), for 20 minutes, twice a week, for a total of 8 weeks. Blood samples were collected before entry into the study and at the beginning of the 16th session. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated and were evaluated for immunophenotypic characteristics as well as for the functional parameters of T-lymphocytes (T cells) and natural killer (NK) cells. T cell proliferation was assessed by 3H-thymidine incorporation assay. NK cell mediated cytotoxicity was determined by a non-radioactive cytotoxicity assay kit using flow cytometry. Immunophenotyping of the peripheral blood lymphocytes showed increased percentages of T cells (CD3+), T cell subsets (CD4+ and CD8+), and NK cells (CD16+CD56+). Functional analysis revealed a significant increase in T cell proliferative response to PHA, a polyclonal T cell mitogen, and a significant increase in NK cell cytotoxicity following the use of TMD. We conclude that use of TMD twice a week may modulate immune function and may be beneficial in subjects with impaired immune function, such as aging individuals and HIV patients.
The anatomy of a hostage situation

The authors have attempted to exemplify the social-psychological interplay between hostage and hostage taker and to dissect the impact of this type of event by focusing on one hostage-taking incident. The event described is representative of many incidents in which the hostage taker acts alone, without a supporting organization, and is primarily motivated by expressive needs. The hostages suffered many common emotions and symptoms. Each hostage also suffered in an individual way, determined in part by preceding events and dynamics and in part by the roles they assumed within the hostage situation. The more common Hostage Response Syndrome included the overt appearance of the Stockholm Syndrome in only one of the hostages. Language: en
Poisonings requiring admission to the pediatric intensive care unit: a 5-year review

AbstractBackground. Poisonings represent a significant number of preventable admissions to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), but data about poisonings requiring PICU-level care are limited. Objectives. To identify the demographics of patients admitted with poisonings and characterize their clinical courses related to their poisoning. Methods. All poisonings over a 5-year period (2008–2012) at an academic medical center in New England were retrospectively reviewed using electronic medical records in an observational case series. Poisonings were identified using key search terms within an admissions database. Results. There were 273 admissions for poisonings, which represent 8% of total PICU admissions over this time period. The poisonings were unintentional in 148 (54%) cases and intentional in 125 (46%). The vast majority of poisonings occurred in patients either 3 years or below (N = 121, 44%) or 13 years or above (N = 124, 45%). Most (96%) admissions were for less than 48 h and 41% were for less...
Optimal nonlinear robust control for nonlinear uncertain cascade systems

We develop an optimality-based robust control framework for uncertain cascade systems with structured parametric uncertainty. Specifically, using an optimal nonlinear robust control framework we develop a family of globally stabilizing robust backstepping controllers parametrized by the cost functional that is minimized. Furthermore, it is shown that the robust control Lyapunov function guaranteeing closed-loop stability over a prescribed range of structured system parametric uncertainty is a solution to the steady-state Hamilton-Jacobi-Bellman equation for the controlled system and thus guarantees robust stability and robust performance. The results are then used to design robust controllers for jet engine compression systems with uncertain compressor characteristic performance maps.
EFFECTS OF URBAN SPRAWL ON SNAGS AND THE ABUNDANCE AND PRODUCTIVITY OF CAVITY-NESTING BIRDS

Abstract We investigated the occurrence of, and relationships among, snags and cavity-nesting birds in the rapidly urbanizing region around Seattle, Washington in 2001 and 2002. We measured the density of snags in 49 sites (1-km2 “suburban landscapes” that included built and forested portions), and determined the diameter, height, decay status, and species of individual snags. We spot-mapped territories and observed nests of cavity-nesting birds at a stratified, random subsample of 13 sites. Snags, especially red alder (Alnus rubra), were abundant in sites' forested portions, but rare in the built portions. Snag density was positively correlated with density of live trees. Snags in built versus forested portions were similar in all attributes except decay, which was more advanced in forested areas. In the oldest suburbs (60–80 years old), snags in forested portions were larger, more decayed, and more likely to have broken tops than those in younger suburbs (2–20 years old). Cavity-nesting bird species ric...
ETTIN patterns the Arabidopsis floral meristem and reproductive organs

ettin (ett) mutations have pleiotropic effects on Arabidopsis flower development, causing increases in perianth organ number, decreases in stamen number and anther formation, and apical-basal patterning defects in the gynoecium. The ETTIN gene was cloned and encodes a protein with homology to DNA binding proteins which bind to auxin response elements. ETT transcript is expressed throughout stage 1 floral meristems and subsequently resolves to a complex pattern within petal, stamen and carpel primordia. The data suggest that ETT functions to impart regional identity in floral meristems that affects perianth organ number spacing, stamen formation, and regional differentiation in stamens and the gynoecium. During stage 5, ETT expression appears in a ring at the top of the floral meristem before morphological appearance of the gynoecium, consistent with the proposal that ETT is involved in prepatterning apical and basal boundaries in the gynoecium primordium. Double mutant analyses and expression studies show that although ETT transcriptional activation occurs independently of the meristem and organ identity genes LEAFY, APETELA1, APETELA2 and AGAMOUS, the functioning of these genes is necessary for ETT activity. Double mutant analyses also demonstrate that ETT functions independently of the ‘b’ class genes APETELA3 and PISTILLATA. Lastly, double mutant analyses suggest that ETT control of floral organ number acts independently of CLAVATA loci and redundantly with PERIANTHIA.
Implications for Future Research

In this last chapter I will attempt to discuss briefly some of the outstanding questions and issues concerning fibronectins. I will concentrate on those future directions that I find personally most interesting and will not attempt to be exhaustive. The preceding chapters have reviewed thoroughly the molecular and cellular work up to mid 1989 and have also discussed in detail many of the best understood physiological and pathological functions of fibronectins (e.g., Chapters 12–15). There are also data bearing on the roles of fibronectins in certain other processes of physiological and clinical importance. Research in these areas seems certain to increase greatly in the next few years, building on the detailed molecular and cellular information. The latter part of this chapter will discuss some of these aspects and potential future applications of our knowledge of fibronectins.
How Normal is Normal? The Mitsubishi Motors Sexual Harassment Case

This case describes MMMA's response to allegations of sexual harassment in its Normal, Illinois, facility. Most of the case focuses on major events that took place between 1992 and spring 1996, culminating in the EEOC investigation and class-action suit, which, at the time, was deemed the most expensive suit ever filed. The decision maker in the case is Lynn Martin, former U.S. Secretary of Labor, who has been hired by MMMA to help the organization take corrective action.
Ecological, evolutionary and human-mediated determinants of poeciliid species richness on Caribbean islands

Author(s): Furness, AI; Reznick, DN; Avise, JC | Abstract: Aim: The theory of island biogeography provides a predictive framework relating species richness to island size and distance from the mainland. However, the theory as originally formulated does not necessarily scale to large islands and continental landmasses that are capable of generating species through innsitu speciation (rather than entirely by colonization), nor does it necessarily account for how human introduction of species alters traditional biogeographical patterns. Here, we examine the ecological (colonization and extinction), evolutionary (innsitu speciation) and human-mediated (deliberate introductions) determinants of species richness in a taxonomic group that has undergone a radiation on Caribbean islands: live-bearing fishes of the family Poeciliidae. Location: The Caribbean. Methods: We created a database of both native and introduced poeciliid species occurrence on Caribbean islands through literature review, and estimated the number of colonizations versus speciation events on each island using a molecular phylogeny. Linear regression and other statistical tests were used to explore species–area and species–isolation relationships. Results: Species richness on small islands results entirely from colonization and does not significantly increase with island area, whereas on larger islands species richness increases dramatically as a function of area due primarily to innsitu speciation. Poeciliid fishes have been introduced widely, both as a by-product of their popularity in the aquarium hobby and as a means of mosquito control. We show that such establishments have occurred disproportionately on islands depauperate in native species, and that introduced species richness is positively correlated with economic interconnectedness (shipping traffic) and human population size. Main conclusions: On large Caribbean islands innsitu speciation has elevated the number of poeciliid species beyond that predicted from ecological processes alone. Introduced species significantly alter biogeographical patterns.
New formulae for estimating prehistoric populations for lowland South America and the Caribbean

The estimation of past population levels continues to be an important aspect of archaeological research. Here Antonio Curet offers new formulae for estimating prehistoric populations in lowland South America and the Caribbean using data derived from houses and settlements.
Effect of Al2O3 Coating on Stabilizing LiNi0.4Mn0.4Co0.2O2 Cathodes

Using atomic layer deposition of Al2O3 coating, improved high-voltage cycling stability has been demonstrated for the layered nickel–manganese–cobalt pseudoternary oxide, LiNi0.4Mn0.4Co0.2O2. To understand the effect of the Al2O3 coating, we have utilized electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, operando synchrotron-based X-ray diffraction, and operando X-ray absorption near edge fine structure spectroscopy to characterize the structure and chemistry evolution of the LiNi0.4Mn0.4Co0.2O2 cathode during cycling. Using this combination of techniques, we show that the Al2O3 coating successfully mitigates the strong side reactions of the active material with the electrolyte at higher voltages (>4.4 V), without restricting the uptake and release of Li ions. The impact of the Al2O3 coating is also revealed at beginning of lithium deintercalation, with an observed delay in the evolution of oxidation and coordination environment for the Co and Mn ions in the coated electrode due to protection of the surface. This p...
Building from the ground up : Strategies for creating safe and just communities

SUMMARY In an era of low crime rates and high imprisonment rates, the role of communities in producing safety and justice is open for critical reexamination. This article suggests that community resiliency is an unexplored factor in the recent drop in violent crime rates, and that community capacity is adversely affected by imprisonment policies, creating critical questions about the ability of community organizations to engage in partnerships on crime and justice topics. Drawing lessons from several community policing experiments, this article outlines a possible role for community engagement in reducing the current reliance on incarceration as a response to crime.
Effects of Administrative Control on Efficiency of Vertical Marketing Systems

A multivariate analysis was used to compare the operational efficiency of administratively coordinated and market coordinated vertical marketing systems. The study proposes nine dimensions where ad...
DBA, del(5q): a reciprocal relationship.

In this issue of Blood, Narla et al show that corticosteroids and lenalidomide used in treating Diamond Blackfan anemia and 5q− syndrome, respectively, have distinct effects on erythropoiesis.1 These data indicate that there may be a role for combining the 2 therapies in treating either disease.
Media Coverage of Suntanning and Skin Cancer: Mixed Messages of Health and Beauty

Abstract This study employed a content analysis of professional health education journals and general interest periodicals to examine coverage of suntanning, ozone layer depletion, and skin cancer prevention. A one page coding form (r = .93) was developed to facilitate collection of data on four variables of interest: (a) personal sun protection measures (i.e., use of sunscreen, use of protective attire), (b) policy change measures (i.e., restricted use of ozone depleting chemicals, mandated use of sunscreen by schoolchildren during mid-day outdoor activity), (c) normative connotations of suntanning (social desirability of suntan, association with health and beauty), and (d) journalist sources of information. Analysis of 164 coding forms indicated that (a) individual sun protection measures were covered with greater frequency than public policy measures (x2[1, 96] = 60.17, p<.001), (b) risk reduction through public policy reform was covered with greater frequency in professional health education journals ...
Limb salvage following iatrogenic arterial injury: complications of cardiac support using intra-aortic balloon pumps

This is a unique case report describing complex limb salvage in a patient who experienced acute limb ischaemia due to a complication of intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) counterpulsation. This case focuses on a patient who had an IABP counterpulsation device inserted following myocardial infarction, requiring urgent coronary artery bypass grafting for acute coronary syndrome. Postoperatively, the IABP could not be removed, with consequent iliac thrombosis and acute limb ischaemia. Emergency femoral-to-femoral crossover bypass was performed using a polytetrafluoroethylene graft. A portion of the IABP balloon tip was entrapped and retained, however, and became the focus of delayed septicaemia, resulting in graft infection and wound breakdown 6 weeks later. Explantation of the residual balloon tip, ligation of the right external iliac artery and redo femoral–femoral crossover using the great saphenous vein were successfully performed.
Interfacial Behaviors of Antimicrobial Peptide Cecropin P1 Immobilized on Different Self-Assembled Monolayers

Surfaces immobilized with biological molecules such as peptides and proteins are widely used in many important applications including biosensors, medical devices, and food packaging. It was found that the structures of surface-immobilized peptides control their surface properties. In this study, we investigated interfacial behaviors of antimicrobial peptide cecropin P1 (CP1) immobilized onto a maleimide-terminated self-assembled monolayer (Mal SAM) and a mixed SAM (Mal-OH SAM, a mixture of maleimide-terminated SAM and hydroxyl-terminated SAM) surface via C-terminus modified cysteine (CP1c). The surface coverage, secondary structure, orientation, and antimicrobial activity of immobilized CP1c were investigated using surface plasmon resonance (SPR), circular dichroism (CD), sum frequency generation (SFG) vibrational spectroscopy, dynamic contact antimicrobial assay, and coarse grained molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. It was found that the surface coverages of CP1c on the Mal SAM and the mixed Mal-OH SAM...
The Effect of Calcium Chloride Added to the Irrigation Water on Quality and Shelf Life of Harvested Mushrooms.

A white hybrid (U-3) strain of cultivated mushrooms ( Agaricus bisporus ) was grown with 0 (control), 0.1 and 0.5% CaCl2 added to the irrigation water. Harvested mushrooms were stored in film-overwrapped packages at 13°C and evaluated after 0, 2, 4, and 7 or 8 d storage to determine treatment effects on quality and shelf life. At low concentration (0.1%), CaCl2 had no significant effect on production yield, quality, or postharvest shelf life, but at higher concentration (0.5%), CaCl2 decreased yield and increased quality and shelf life. At a concentration of 0.5%, yield was decreased by 16%, but solids content of harvested mushrooms was increased 16% and shelf life was increased by about 64%, mainly due to a decreased rate of postharvest bacterial growth and a concomitant reduction of surface browning.
Tofacitinib for the treatment of severe alopecia areata and variants: A study of 90 patients.

Background Alopecia areata (AA) is a common autoimmune disorder. There are no reliably effective therapies for AA. Objective We sought to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the Janus kinase 1/3 inhibitor, tofacitinib, in a series of patients over an extended period of time. Methods This is a retrospective study of patients age 18 years or older with AA with at least 40% scalp hair loss treated with tofacitinib. The primary end point was the percent change in Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) score during treatment. Results Ninety patients met inclusion criteria. Of 65 potential responders to therapy, defined as those with alopecia totalis or alopecia universalis with duration of current episode of disease of 10 years or less or alopecia areata, 77% achieved a clinical response, with 58% of patients achieving greater than 50% change in SALT score over 4 to 18 months of treatment. Patients with AA experienced a higher percent change in SALT score than did patients with alopecia totalis or alopecia universalis (81.9% vs 59.0%). Tofacitinib was well tolerated, and there were no serious adverse events. Limitations The retrospective nature of the data, the relatively small number of patients, and lack of a control group are limitations. Conclusion Tofacitinib should be considered for the treatment of severe AA, alopecia totalis, and alopecia universalis; tofacitinib dose response will be better defined by randomized controlled trials.
An acoustic performance analysis of AC-motor bathroom ventilation fans for a decade-long period, 2005–2015

The most common HVAC device in a residence, or in most other buildings for that matter, is the bathroom ventilation fan. Because these devices operate in close proximity to humans, the concept of loudness is particularly relevant to the acoustic performance of fans. In this regard, acoustic performance is an important component of indoor environmental quality, and the use of loudness as a method of achieving an acoustic rating is now widely accepted in codes and standards. Therefore, a long-term comparative study investigating changes in acoustic performances was performed for bathroom ventilation fans of the alternating current (AC) motor type, with a focus on fan loudness over an 11-year period from 2005 to 2015. Because of difference in performances and designs along with divisions created by testing standards and codes, the 1400 fans tested and analyzed were divided into low- and high-volume flow rate groups, namely below and above 42.5 L/s. In addition to specific conclusions reached from analyzing 1...
Precision genome editing using CRISPR-Cas9 and linear repair templates in C. elegans

The ability to introduce targeted edits in the genome of model organisms is revolutionizing the field of genetics. State-of-the-art methods for precision genome editing use RNA-guided endonucleases to create double-strand breaks (DSBs) and DNA templates containing the edits to repair the DSBs. Following this strategy, we have developed a protocol to create precise edits in the C. elegans genome. The protocol takes advantage of two innovations to improve editing efficiency: direct injection of CRISPR-Cas9 ribonucleoprotein complexes and use of linear DNAs with short homology arms as repair templates. The protocol requires no cloning or selection, and can be used to generate base and gene-size edits in just 4days. Point mutations, insertions, deletions and gene replacements can all be created using the same experimental pipeline.
DEVELOPMENT OF SERUM FREE MEDIA FOR ENGINEERED NSO CELL LINES

A serum free medium supporting growth and antibody production in a recombinant NS0 cell line was developed. Initial experiments focused on a formulation which would support growth and antibody production for one passage in serum free medium in T-flasks. A number of commercially available media were screened but they did not support cell growth, either when cells were weaned into serum free medium or inoculated directly into serum free medium. Cells were then grown in an in-house serum free medium, YD25, based on supplemented William's Medium E. Further supplementation of this medium with different lipid cocktails was found to give growth and antibody production similar to that in serum-containing media in T-flasks. Several of these media formulations were tested for their ability to allow long-term propagation of cells, and the growth rates and antibody production in these media are shown.
Testing for Slope Heterogeneity Bias in Panel Data Models

Standard econometric methods can overlook individual heterogeneity in empirical work, generating inconsistent parameter estimates in panel data models. We propose the use of methods that allow rese...
Teaching Sociological Practice: Starting with Something Special

A scholar-practitioner might want to decide what concept, value, or framework in sociological practice is particularly important for students to know at the very beginning of a course. This “special emphasis” approach is detailed using four examples: cultural competence in a course on mediation skills; humanism in courses or presentations on social theory, ethics, social planning, or intervention; participatory action research in a social science research course; and empowerment in intervention, community, social planning, or social policy courses. Clinical and applied sociologists are invited to consider an “up front and personal” approach in at least some of their courses and to choose and explicitly emphasize, in their own special way, an important value, concept, or perspective at the beginning of a course.
Biochemical functions of persulfides.

In biological systems, persulfides (RSS-) are reactive, unstable intermediates in the transformations of sulfur compounds. Persulfides are also referred to as polysulfides, or alkyl/aryl hydrogen disulfides. The persulfide sulfur is commonly termed, “sulfane”, to designate sulfur covalently bonded only to other sulfur atoms. The scission of the sulfur-sulfur bond is enhanced by the joint action of electrophilic and nucleophilic groups1.
Generalised Clusterwise Regression for Simultaneous Estimation of Optimal Pavement Clusters and Performance Models

This paper focuses on clusterwise regression (CR) approach for modelling of pavement performance. CR simultaneously clusters the data and estimates the associated models. Previous studies using CR ...
Evidence of effectiveness in the Cohesive Strategy: measuring and improving wildfire response

The United States’ National Cohesive Wildfire Management Strategy aims to achieve greater social and ecological resilience to wildfire. It also raises the question: cohesive for whom and for what purpose? In this article, we address the wildfire response goal and what a cohesive response means. Namely, we define a cohesive response as the ability to co-manage across scales for a more effective wildfire response. Our approach is grounded in the reality of the growing complexity of wildfire – both biophysically and socio-politically. We suggest that suppression and fire operations are necessary, but insufficient in the face of this growing complexity as we seek safer and effective wildfire response. Using network-based concepts and drawing from the literature on socio-ecological resilience, we consider how scales can be matched, what can and should be communicated across scales, and what this means for creating more adaptable institutions for more effective wildfire response. Survey results from 21 fires during the 2013 wildfire season are presented to illustrate relative areas of strength and weakness related to wildfire response and how these measurements can feed into processes to facilitate social learning, adaptation and ultimately more resilient socio-ecological wildfire response institutions.
Development and characterization of a polypropylene matrix composite and aluminum hybrid material

Hybridizing different materials, such as metals and polymer matrix composites, has recently drawn attention as it can produce a unique material that offers advantages from both the metals and the c...
Form and Substance of (Sociological) Models

One should undertake the study of structural equation models in the hope of acquiring a technique that can be applied mechanically to a set of numerical data with the expectation that the result will automatically be research. There is no how to instruction to say about form and substance of models, rather there are a few reflections about the logic of models. It does not seem to be possible to give a definition of structural form that is other than circular. The structural form of the model is that parameterization—among the various possible ones—in which the coefficients are (relatively) unmixed, invariant, and autonomous. However, one cannot tell just by studying the mathematical properties of a model whether it is a structural equation model or not, although one can determine whether it is recursive or nonrecursive, identified or underidentified, and so on. The chapter illustrates with an example whether structural coefficients are unmixed, invariant, and autonomous in a model.
Oncologic Safety of Oncoplastic Surgery

The use of oncoplastic breast surgery has increased substantially in recent years and has many benefits for the patient, including those related to cosmesis, quality of life, and avoidance of mastectomy. However, surgical oncologists have expressed concern regarding the oncologic safety of these procedures. There has been speculation, due to a variety of reasons, that oncoplastic procedures may compromise oncologic outcomes. Oncoplastic surgery has been associated with a higher complication rate than standard breast-conserving surgery, and this has raised concerns that the commencement of adjuvant therapy may be delayed in these patients. Mobilization of glandular tissue in oncoplastic surgery leads to displacement of the tumor bed, posing challenges for re-excision of margins and also for delivery of radiation boost. These issues will be discussed in detail in this chapter.
Overview of Extension Program Planning Models

The use of program plan development models within Extension has a long history of application based on environmental context, interest, and perceived value. The purpose of this 6-page article is to articulate a comparative overview of the various program planning models designed and employed by Extension professionals in education contexts. Written by John Diaz, Cody Gusto, and David Diehl and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Agricultural Education and Communication, January 2018. http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/wc289
Inefficiency of the stringent response in the fungus Mucor

Abstract Removal of a required amino acid from the growth medium or addition of cycloheximide caused an immediate stoppage of growth and protein synthesis in the fungus Mucor racemosus . However, RNA synthesis persisted for several hours at rates that only gradually decreased under the same circumstances. An analysis of the major classes of RNA synthesized during the first hour of treatment showed that cycloheximide preferentially inhibited rRNA synthesis, whereas amino acid starvation slowed synthesis of all RNA species uniformly. Neither treatment affected the percentage of mRNA synthesized. The partial and delayed effects of amino acid starvation and cycloheximide treatment on RNA synthesis reported here suggest the absence of or the gross inefficiency of a classical stringent response in M. racemosus .