cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Current conservation genetics: building an ecological approach to the synthesis of molecular and quantitative genetic methods

Abstract Although neutral molecular markers have long been important tools for describing genetic variation in threatened fish species, many of the most critical questions in conservation relate more to quantitative genetic variation than to neutral markers. Quantitative genetic studies are typically expensive and time-consuming to conduct, especially in some of the long-lived vertebrates of conservation concern. The present review of recent literature in fish conservation genetics examines the traditional role of molecular studies in describing conservation units and providing indirect inference about local adaptation and adaptive potential. Of special interest are approaches that use a combination of molecular and quantitative genetic methods. Such studies are likely to provide important new insights into many conservation-related problems. The review also explores how increasing interest in non-neutral molecular markers is contributing to our understanding of the geographic scale and evolutionary importance of local adaptation in threatened populations. It is increasingly clear that advanced genetic technologies for the exploration of neutral and non-neutral molecular variation are leading to a fundamental shift in the way complex phenotypic traits are studied. This new synthesis of methods will have dramatic implications for fish conservation genetics and biology in general. Resumen 1. Durante mucho tiempo, los marcadores moleculares neutros han tenido gran importancia en la descripcion de la variacion genetica de las especies de peces amenazadas. A pesar de que la mayoria de las cuestiones criticas sobre conservacion se relacionan mas con variacion genetica cuantitativa que con marcadores neutros, los estudios de genetica cuantitativa son relativamente caros y laboriosos, en especial en algunos animales vertebrados longevos. 2. Esta revision de la literatura reciente sobre genetica de la conservacion de peces examina el papel tradicional de los estudios moleculares en la descripcion de las unidades de conservacion, y en el suministro de inferencia indirecta sobre adaptacion local y potencial adaptativo. Las aproximaciones que utilizan una combinacion de metodos de genetica molecular y cuantitativa tienen especial interes y, probablemente, ofreceran conocimiento nuevo y relevante sobre muchos de los problemas relacionados con la conservacion. 3. Por otro lado, tambien exploro como el creciente interes en los marcadores moleculares no neutros esta contribuyendo a nuestra comprension de la escala geografica y la importancia evolutiva de adaptaciones locales de poblaciones amenazadas. 4. Se hace cada vez mas patente que los avances en las tecnicas geneticas para el estudio de variaciones moleculares neutras y no neutras estan llevando a un cambio fundamental en la manera de estudiar caracteristicas fenotipicas complejas. Esta nueva sintesis de metodos tendra implicaciones de gran importancia para le genetica de conservacion de peces y para la biologia en general.
The Effects of a Wellness Intervention in Supervision

This study investigated the use of a wellness intervention in clinical supervision among counselors in training. Wellness and supervisory working alliance were measured through the use of the Five Factor Wellness Inventory (Myers & Sweeney, 2005b) and Supervisory Working Alliance Inventory – Trainee Version (Efstation, Patton, & Kardash, 1990) and compared to those who had not received the wellness intervention. Results indicated that total wellness measures increased among those who received the intervention. However, the use of a wellness intervention appeared to have a limited impact in strengthening the supervisory working alliance.
Depletion of hepatitis C virus from procured kidneys using pulsatile perfusion preservation.

The safety of the use of kidneys procured from a hepatitis C virus (HCV)-positive cadaver donors in transplantation has recently been the subject of controversy. One factor that is important in determining the transmission of the virus and/or viral liver disease is the total viral inoculum to which the renal allograft recipient is exposed as a result of the transplant. We have studied the effect of a standard pulsatile renal preservation procedure and variations of it on the number of viral copies in organs from HCV-positive donors
Expressed sequence tag (EST) analysis of Gregarine gametocyst development.

Gregarines are protozoan parasites of invertebrates in the phylum Apicomplexa. We employed an expressed sequence tag strategy in order to dissect the molecular processes of sexual or gametocyst development of gregarines. Expressed sequence tags provide a rapid way to identify genes, particularly in organisms for which we have very little molecular information. Analysis of ∼1800 expressed sequence tags from the gametocyst stage revealed highly expressed genes related to cell division and differentiation. Evidence was found for the role of degradation and recycling in gametocyst development. Numerous additional genes uncovered by expressed sequence tag sequencing should provide valuable tools to investigate gametocyst development as well as for molecular phylogenetics, and comparative genomics in this important group of parasites.
Requiring athletes to acknowledge receipt of concussion-related information and responsibility to report symptoms: a study of the prevalence, variation, and possible improvements

State concussion laws and sport-league policies are important tools for protecting public health, but also present implementation challenges. Both state laws and league policies often require athletes provide written acknowledgement of having received concussion-related information and/or of their responsibility to report concussion-related symptoms. This paper examines these requirements in two ways: an analysis of the variation in state laws and sport-league policies and a study of their effects in a cohort of collegiate football players.
Light utilization and competition between Echinacea purpurea , Panicum virgatum and Ratibida pinnata under greenhouse and field conditions

Competitive interactions were compared under field and greenhouse conditions for three representative tallgrass prairie species, Echinacea purpurea, Panicum virgatum and Ratibida pinnata. These were planted in monoculture and in mixtures of two species using a replacement series design with groups of four or eight plants. Competition was determined from shoot dry weight data collected during 120 days in the greenhouse and after 415 days in the field. Yields declined with increased density of a single species in the greenhouse from 40 days onward and in the field. Relative yields were up to 100% higher in mixtures than in monocultures for all species early on in the greenhouse experiment. Later in the experiment and in the field relative yields of E. purpurea decreased in the presence of P. virgatum and R. pinnata, whereas relative yields of these two species increased in the presence of E. purpurea. There were correlations in relative yield between the field and the greenhouse experiment at 80 and 120 days. In the greenhouse P. virgatum maintained higher net assimilation rates than the other species. Relative growth rates of all species were higher in monoculture and in mixtures up to 40 days, after which they declined, especially for E. purpurea in mixtures. In the field, higher light intensities occurred in pure stands of E. purpurea than in mixed stands with other species. The order of competitive ability that was apparent from these field and greenhouse studies, P. virgatum = R. pinnata > E. purpurea, could be partially explained by photosynthetic rates in relation to canopy light interception.
Resolved: Heparin May Be Useful in Selected Patients With Brain Ischemia

Heparin reduces development of erythrocyte-fibrin thrombi that form in regions of vascular stasis especially within the heart, in severely stenosed arteries sometimes engrafted on white thrombi, in acute arterial occlusions as fresh tails on existing thrombi, and within extremity and pelvic veins. Unfortunately, heparin use can be associated with severe bleeding, especially if not closely monitored. Heparin should not be indiscriminately used in all brain ischemia patients. Bleeding complications will outweigh therapeutic benefit. Unfortunately, randomized trials have not adequately studied heparins in patients with conditions likely to respond to treatment. Reported trials lumped patients with brain ischemia together without diagnostic investigations defining etiology, stroke subtypes, or vascular lesions. Worsening and new neurologic deficits can develop when thrombi form, propagate, and embolize. Stroke worsening, even when thrombi are present, occurs in only 20% to 33% of ischemic strokes. Even when anticoagulants are stopped because of hemorrhage in prosthetic heart valve patients, recurrent embolism rarely occurred during the next 10 days.1 Most cardioembolic recurrences do not occur during …
Generation of 270 Gb/s NRZ data packets from a 10-Gb/s signal using a temporal telescopic system

We demonstrate compression of 24-bit 10-Gb/s NRZ data packets to 270 Gb/s using a temporal telescopic system. This technique's versatility allows format-transparent compression of packets (i.e. NRZ, RZ, DPSK) and analog waveforms by arbitrary factors.
MIN‐CYANIDE: An expert system for cyanide waste minimization in electroplating plants

An expert system, MIN-CYANIDE, has been constructed to assist engineers and technicians in the source reduction of cyanide-waste solutions in an electroplating plant by resorting to these techniques and experience, and to train plant operators in the application of the techniques. MIN-CYANIDE evaluates options, such as drag-out minimization, bath-life extension, rinse-water reduction, replacement with a non-cyanide solution, use of an alternative plating technique, and improvement of the operating procedure; furthermore, it identifies the most effective among them. The knowledge about the cyanide source reduction is acquired from available publications, represented by numerous fuzzy or non-fuzzy heuristic rules, and codified into a commercial export system shell, Personal Consultant Plus, on an IBM PC/AT compatible computer. MIN-CYANIDE provides a user friendly interface; in operating it, the user answers various questions concerning the operational situations of the production and/or current equipment and techniques in the plant. In response, MIN-CYANIDE will present instantaneously a series of options for cyanide minimization and eventually rank them.
Reduced Vaccinal Protection of Turkey Herpesvirus Against Field Strains of Marek’s Disease Herpesvirus

Four isolates of Marek's disease herpesvirus (MDV) were obtained from 21-week-old broiler breeders with lesions and mortality from Marek's disease (MD). They had been properly vaccinated with turkey herpesvirus (HVT). The isolates were designated Ala-7, 8, 9, and 10. These 4 MDV strains were compared with the GA isolate of MDV in chickens vaccinated with graded doses of HVT. Challenge with the MDV strains was also with graded doses. All 5 isolates of MDV were similar in virulence. However, protection afforded against MD lesions by HVT was significantly lower in the Ala-7, 8, and 9 isolates than with the Ala-10 or GA isolates. The Ala-7, 8 and 9 isolates of MDV induced small-cell plaques in chick embryo fibroblasts, the Ala-10 isolate induced both large and small cell per plaque types, and the GA isolate produced predominantly small cell plaques with a few plaques of the large cell type.
PGC-1 coactivators and skeletal muscle adaptations in health and disease

Skeletal muscle adapts to physiological demands by altering a number of programs of gene expression, including those driving mitochondrial biogenesis, angiogenesis, and fiber composition. Recently, the PGC-1 transcriptional coactivators have emerged as key players in the regulation of these adaptations. Many signaling cascades important in muscle physiology impinge directly on PGC-1 expression or activity. In turn, the PGC-1s powerfully activate many of the programs of muscle adaptation. These findings have implications for our understanding of muscle responses to physiological conditions like exercise, as well as in pathological conditions such as cachexia, dystrophy, and peripheral vascular disease.
An enhanced optimal windowed RLS algorithm for fading multipath channel estimation

Estimation of a fading channel with high accuracy is a key factor for successful signal detection in many mobile, indoor and personal radio communication systems. The optimal windowed recursive least squares (OW-RLS) algorithm developed previously (1993) results in a significant improvement over an exponential windowed recursive least squares algorithm when it is applied to tracking a fading channel. The improvement is confirmed by simulation on a single path fading channel. However, no improvement in performance has been obtained in the simulation of multipath frequency selective channels. This paper shows that the undesirable result is caused by an additional error which is introduced by an incomplete decoupling of cross-correlation terms. The authors design a feedback decoupling method which can cancel the bias almost completely. Simulations show that the theoretical improvement of an OW-RLS algorithm on a fading multipath channel can be completely recovered. With this modification, an enhanced OW-RLS algorithm is described. >
Breeding biology and conservation of the Black-vented Shearwater Puffinus opisthomelas

The Black-vented Shearwater Puffinus opisthomelas is endemic to the Pacific coast of Baja California, Mexico. We studied the breeding biology of this species at Natividad Island in 1997 and 1998. The colony at Natividad Island covers approximately 2.5 km 2 and we estimated there to be 114 455 (± 27 520 95% CI) burrows in the colony. In 1997 burrow occupancy was 66.9%, providing a population estimate of 76 570 (± 18 411 95% CI) breeding pairs, representing about 95% of the world's population of this species. In 1997 the peak in egg laying occurred in early March and hatching began on 7 May. The incubation period averaged 51 days (± 6 sd) and chick rearing averaged 69 days (± 3 sd). In 1998 burrow occupancy was lower (19.6%) and nest initiation was later (peak egg laying in mid-April), perhaps a result of El Nino conditions that prevailed in the Eastern Pacific at that time. We calculated that the development of the town and roads on Natividad Island have destroyed over 15% (26 532 burrows) of the breeding habitat on the island.
Parameter Advising for Multiple Sequence Alignment

Background While the multiple sequence alignment output by an aligner strongly depends on the parameter values used for its alignment scoring function (i.e. choice of gap penalties and substitution scores), most users rely on the single default parameter setting. A different parameter setting, however, might yield a much higher-quality alignment for a specific set of input sequences. The problem of picking a good choice of parameter values for a given set of input sequences is called parameter advising. A parameter advisor has two ingredients: (i) a set of parameter choices to select from, and (ii) an estimator that estimates the accuracy of a computed alignment; the parameter advisor then picks the parameter choice from the set whose resulting alignment has highest estimated accuracy. Our estimator Facet (Feature-based Accuracy Estimator) is a linear combination of real-valued feature functions of an alignment. We assume the feature functions are given as well as the universe of parameter choices from which the advisor’s set is drawn. For this scenario we define the problem of learning an optimal advisor by finding the best possible parameter set for a collection of training data of reference alignments. Learning optimal advisor sets is NP-complete [1]. For the advisor sets
Women’s issues in mood disorders

Since the introduction of antidepressants in the 1950s, it was assumed for the next several decades that there were no special reasons to look at the application of these medications to women. In the past half-century, particularly in the past decade, since the advent of the selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRI), a series of specific foci have developed. Firstly, there appear to be differences in the degree of response to particular antidepressants between the genders. Secondly, there is data concerning hormonal effects of particular relevance to women, i.e. prolactin, which separates out among the antidepressants. Also of concern to women are the potential teratogenic effects of these medications, which impact on their use during pregnancy. Finally, there are certain diagnostic syndromes that are particularly relevant to women: premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD); postpartum depression (PPD) and perimenopausal depression (PMD). It appears that the SSRIs may be more effective, relative to the older tricyclic antidepressants (TCA), in women than in men. The SSRIs have shown to be effective in treating these disorders, with the possibility of intermittent luteal phase treatment of PMDD. Non-antidepressant (AD) approaches have generally been found to be less effective. In the first trimester of pregnancy, there is data available supporting the safe use of SSRIs, particularly those first released, i.e. fluoxetine and sertraline. Finally, all SSRIs, with the exception of sertraline, can increase the risk of hyperprolactinaemia. This can lead to a variety of complications including amenorrhea and osteoporosis. This effect of sertraline, due to its unique profile in blocking re-uptake of dopamine, extends itself into additional relative benefits for sleep and memory. The issues associated for women with bipolar disorder are dealt with in terms of both increased risk of relapse during pregnancy and postpartum periods, as well as the relative risk of use of lithium and mood stabilizers in pregnancy and lactation.
Robotic-assisted laparoscopic stage II restorative proctectomy for toxic ulcerative colitis

Background There is a paucity of literature reporting minimally invasive proctectomy for ulcerative colitis (UC). We report a novel application of a robotic system to perform restorative proctectomy in patients with toxic UC. Methods Retrospective review, case series report. Results Robotic-assisted laparoscopic proctectomy with ileal J-pouch anal anastomosis was performed in three patients with toxic UC. All patients previously underwent urgent laparoscopic total abdominal colectomy. One female and two male patients were aged 39, 24 and 43, respectively. The procedures were performed safely with minimal complications. The robotic proctectomy operative time was reduced from 134 to 106 min. None of the patients have experienced fecal incontinence, nocturnal seepage or sexual dysfunction. Conclusions This is a case series report of a robotic-assisted laparoscopic proctectomy with restorative ileal J-pouch in patients with toxic UC. This technique has been previously described for use in patients with medically refractory UC and neoplasia associated with chronic UC. This series exemplifies an ideal application of a robotic system with improved visibility, rotation and ergonomics. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sunscreen sales, socio-economic factors, and melanoma incidence in Northern Europe: a population-based ecological study

In this ecological study, we drew upon recently published melanoma prevalence data, and compared them with historical market data and published socio-economic data to test for an association between historical sunscreen sales (1997-1999) and recent melanoma incidences (2008 and 2012) in 24 countries in Northern Europe. We also explored associations between current melanoma incidences and historical data on the following socio-demographic indicators: income, urbanization, and population aging. Melanoma incidences were higher in high-income countries where sales of sunscreen were also higher. Our results show that, at the population level, income was significantly associated with melanoma incidences, β = 0.0003, t(19) = 3.104, p < .006, and that increased sunscreen sales has not prevented higher income populations from being at higher risk of melanoma.
Structure of the TRPV1 ion channel determined by electron cryo-microscopy

Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are sensors for a wide range of cellular and environmental signals, but elucidating how these channels respond to physical and chemical stimuli has been hampered by a lack of detailed structural information. Here we exploit advances in electron cryo-microscopy to determine the structure of a mammalian TRP channel, TRPV1, at 3.4 A resolution, breaking the side-chain resolution barrier for membrane proteins without crystallization. Like voltage-gated channels, TRPV1 exhibits four-fold symmetry around a central ion pathway formed by transmembrane segments 5–6 (S5–S6) and the intervening pore loop, which is flanked by S1–S4 voltage-sensor-like domains. TRPV1 has a wide extracellular ‘mouth’ with a short selectivity filter. The conserved ‘TRP domain’ interacts with the S4–S5 linker, consistent with its contribution to allosteric modulation. Subunit organization is facilitated by interactions among cytoplasmic domains, including amino-terminal ankyrin repeats. These observations provide a structural blueprint for understanding unique aspects of TRP channel function. A high-resolution electron cryo-microscopy structure of the rat transient receptor potential (TRP) channel TRPV1 in its ‘closed’ state is presented; the overall structure of this ion channel is found to share some common features with voltage-gated ion channels, although several unique, TRP-specific features are also characterized. Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are sensors for a wide range of physical and chemical stimuli. In the first of a pair of related papers, Maofu Liao et al. solve the high-resolution electron cryo-microscopy structure of rat TRPV1, the receptor for capsaicin (a pungent agent from chili peppers), in a 'closed' state. The overall structure is fairly similar to that of a voltage-gated ion channel, but there are several structural features unique to TRP channels. In the second paper, Erhu Cao et al. present the structures of rat TRPV1 in the presence of a peptide neurotoxin (resiniferatoxin) and in the presence of capsaicin, yielding structures of activated states of the channel. Comparison of the closed and open structures suggests that TRPV1 has a unique two-gate mechanism of channel activation.
Characterization of the Osmoprotectant Transporter OpuC from Pseudomonas syringae and Demonstration that Cystathionine-β-Synthase Domains Are Required for Its Osmoregulatory Function

The plant pathogen Pseudomonas syringae may cope with osmotic stress on plants, in part, by importing osmoprotective compounds. In this study, we found that P. syringae pv. tomato strain DC3000 was distinct from most bacterial species in deriving greater osmoprotection from exogenous choline than from glycine betaine. This superior osmoprotection was correlated with a higher capacity for uptake of choline than for uptake of glycine betaine. Of four putative osmoregulatory ABC transporters in DC3000, one, designated OpuC, functioned as the primary or sole transporter for glycine betaine and as one of multiple transporters for choline under high osmolarity. Surprisingly, the homolog of the well-characterized ProU transporter from Escherichia coli and Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium did not function in osmoprotection. The P. syringae pv. tomato OpuC transporter was more closely related to the Bacillus subtilis and Listeria monocytogenes OpuC transporters than to known osmoprotectant transporters in gram-negative bacteria based on sequence similarity and genetic arrangement. The P. syringae pv. tomato OpuC transporter had a high affinity for glycine betaine, a low affinity for choline, and a broad substrate specificity that included acetylcholine, carnitine, and proline betaine. Tandem cystathionine-β-synthase (CBS) domains in the ATP-binding component of OpuC were required for transporter function. The presence of these CBS domains was correlated with osmoregulatory function among the putative transporters examined in DC3000 and was found to be predictive of functional osmoregulatory transporters in other pseudomonads. These results provide the first functional evaluation of an osmoprotectant transporter in a Pseudomonas species and demonstrate the usefulness of the CBS domains as predictors of osmoregulatory activity.
Cross-category friendship patterns: Comparison of heterosexual and sexual minority adults

Using comparative methodology, Galupo’s analyses with sexual minorities were replicated with heterosexual participants allowing for a comparison of close friendship patterns across sexual orientation, sex, and race. Participants completed a questionnaire reporting basic demographic information about themselves and their close friends. Heterosexual women and men primarily developed friendships of similarity, with relatively few friendships experienced in a cross-orientation (5.50%), cross-sex (28.06%), or cross-race (17.11%) context. In contrast, bisexual women and men reported more cross-orientation (79.55%), cross-sex (32.99%), and cross-race (23.13%) friendships. Likewise, lesbians and gay men reported cross-orientation (53.03%) cross-sex (23.73%), and cross-race (25.77%) friendships. Sexual orientation, sex, and race interacted in complex ways in shaping friendship patterns. The implications of these findings are discussed in the context of feminist intersectional theory.
EVOLUTION OF COLONIALITY IN BIRDS: A TEST OF HYPOTHESES WITH THE RED-NECKED GREBE (PODICEPS GRISEGENA)

Abstract Group breeding is perplexing, because individuals incur density-dependent fitness costs to breed in groups, yet no universal benefit appears to explain its evolution. Coloniality in birds, defined as dense nesting within limited territories, is a striking example of group breeding. Adaptive explanations for coloniality are diverse, and several research approaches have emerged. Here, we test models for the evolution of coloniality with a population of Red-necked Grebes (Podiceps grisegena). We distinguish habitat models from conspecific models for explaining the adaptive evolution of coloniality. Habitat models propose that the fitness benefits of colonial breeding are gained through the characteristics or location of the colony site, whereas conspecific models posit that the benefits of colonial breeding are gained solely from nesting near conspecifics. Red-necked Grebes are waterbirds that typically nest in a dispersed fashion, only rarely nesting in colonies. Both dispersed and colonial nesting...
Electronic Structure and Optical Properties of α-CH3NH3PbBr3 Perovskite Single Crystal

The electronic structure and related optical properties of an emerging thin-film photovoltaic material CH3NH3PbBr3 are studied. A block-shaped α-phase CH3NH3PbBr3 single crystal with the natural ⟨100⟩ surface is synthesized solvothermally. The room-temperature dielectric function e = e1 + ie2 spectrum of CH3NH3PbBr3 is determined by spectroscopic ellipsometry from 0.73 to 6.45 eV. Data are modeled with a series of Tauc–Lorentz oscillators, which show the absorption edge with a strong excitonic transition at ∼2.3 eV and several above-bandgap optical structures associated with the electronic interband transitions. The energy band structure and e data of CH3NH3PbBr3 for the CH3NH3+ molecules oriented in the ⟨111⟩ and ⟨100⟩ directions are obtained from first-principles calculations. The overall shape of e data shows a qualitatively good agreement with experimental results. Electronic origins of major optical structures are discussed.
Beneficial effects of nickel on plant growth

Wheat, barley and oat plants, grown in the absence of added Ni (‐Ni), accumulated 15 to 20 fold higher levels of urea in their leaf tips than Ni supplied plants (+Ni). Oat plants (‐Ni) matured 15 days earlier than +Ni‐oat plants. When grown from low Ni seed, Ni‐deprived barley plants had significantly (30%) lower root and shoot weights than +Ni‐plants and displayed characteristic symptoms that could be eliminated by Ni supplementation. Tissue Fe‐levels were positively correlated with tissue Ni‐levels.
Evaluation of an Empirical Dosing Schedule for Gentamicin in Neonates

The standard gentamicin dosing recommendations for neonates appear to be inappropriate because they fail to consider the influence of neonatal development on gentamicin pharmacokinetics. Recent reports have emphasized that the standard regimens of 2.5 mg/kg q8-12h produce steady-state trough serum concentrations greater than 2 micrograms/ml in up to 91 percent of preterm infants of less than 35 weeks' gestation. A new dosing schedule based on postconceptional age (PCA) was developed to provide a better guideline for initiating and maintaining gentamicin therapy in neonates: PCA greater than 34 weeks, 2.5 mg/kg iv q12h; PCA 28-34 weeks, 2.5 mg/kg iv q16h; PCA less than 28 weeks, 2.5 mg/kg iv q24h. The new dosing schedule reduced the number of neonates with elevated trough concentrations (greater than 2 micrograms/ml) from 68.4 percent to 33-40 percent. Pharmacokinetic parameters for gentamicin in the various PCA groups were determined. Volume of distribution was constant across age groups (0.5 +/- 0.09 L/kg). Elimination rate constants (kel), half-lives, and clearance rates (Cl) ranged from 0.069 +/- 0.02 to 0.14 +/- 0.04 h-1, 10.71 +/- 2.92 to 6.04 +/- 1.24 h, and 0.58 +/- 0.25 to 0.93 +/- 0.24 ml/kg/min, respectively. Significant relationships were found between kel and Cl and patient age and weight; significant correlations were found between actual and estimated (based on PCA and weight) kel and Cl. Variability in kel and Cl estimated was considerable in spite of the correlations. The observed variability stresses again the need for pharmacokinetic monitoring of gentamicin therapy in neonates.
Point-free, set-free concrete linear algebra

Abstract linear algebra lets us reason and compute with collections rather than individual vectors, for example by considering entire subspaces. Its classical presentation involves a menagerie of different settheoretic objects (spaces, families, mappings), whose use often involves tedious and non-constructive pointwise reasoning; this is in stark contrast with the regularity and effectiveness of the matrix computations hiding beneath abstract linear algebra. In this paper we show how a simple variant of Gaussian elimination can be used to model abstract linear algebra directly, using matrices only to represent all categories of objects, with operations such as subspace intersection and sum. We can even provide effective support for direct sums and subalgebras. We have formalized this work in Coq, and used it to develop all of the group representation theory required for the proof of the Odd Order Theorem, including results such as the Jacobson Density Theorem, Clifford's Theorem, the Jordan-Holder Theorem for modules, theWedderburn Structure Theorem for semisimple rings (the basis for character theory).
Two Ways of Thinking, Two Types of Attitudes

There is a certain novelty to implicit attitudes. The notion that people possess unspoken thoughts that can shape their judgments without their control is patently at odds with conventional wisdom about the deliberative and intentional nature of human reasoning (e.g., Bargh 2007: 1; Greenwald and Banaji 1995: 4; Taber 2003: 462). But novelty is not enough to carry a concept forward in political science. Without a detailed understanding about what implicit attitudes are, why they emerge, and what characteristics they display, the idea of implicit attitudes can easily become vacuous. Heavy conceptual lifting is therefore required before we even begin assembling a theoretical framework to explain the influence of implicit attitudes in the realm of immigration politics. Such is the goal of this chapter. To this end, I begin by discussing and explaining social psychologists’ (and a few political psychologists’) changing views about human memory and reasoning. Here, researchers are increasingly learning that human thinking is organized into two systems, or forms, of reasoning that vary in terms of how they process and utilize information (e.g., Deutsch and Strack 2010; Gawronski and Bodenhausen 2011; Giner-Sorolla 2012; Haidt 2012; Kahneman 2011; Leander and Chartrand 2011; Lodge and Taber 2013; Rydell and McConnell 2006; Sloman 1996; Smith and DeCoster 2000). Each of these two systems operates under different rationales and by way of distinct cognitive principles. Whereas one system of reasoning is more conducive to the deliberative and controlled type of thinking that many political scientists are familiar with, the other form of reasoning facilitates more spontaneous and impulsive forms of thought. And, although many political scientists often think of deliberative thinking as primary (if not singular), research suggests people's impulsive reasoning often precedes their more deliberative cognitive efforts (e.g., Gawronski and Bodenhausen 2011; Lodge and Taber 2013; Olson and Fazio 2009). Building on this difference between forms of thinking, I then explain the types of attitudes produced by each cognitive system, namely, explicit and implicit attitudes. Because explicit and implicit attitudes emanate from distinct reasoning systems, each type of attitude differs in its underlying substance and mode of operation (e.g., Rydell and McConnell 2006; Smith and DeCoster 2000; Wilson et al. 2000). Thus, for example, explicit attitudes reflect one's more considered thoughts; they enter one's judgments at the discretion of individuals (e.g., Gawronski and Bodenhausen 2006; Strack and Deutsch 2004).
Small Gold Nanoparticles Interfaced to Electrodes through Molecular Linkers: A Platform to Enhance Electron Transfer and Increase Electrochemically Active Surface Area

For the smallest nanostructures (<5 nm), small changes in structure can lead to significant changes in properties and reactivity. In the case of nanoparticle (NP)-functionalized electrodes, NP structure and composition, and the nature of the NP-electrode interface have a strong influence upon electrochemical properties that are critical in applications such as amperometric sensing, photocatalysis and electrocatalysis. Existing methods to fabricate NP-functionalized electrodes do not allow for precise control over all these variables, especially the NP-electrode interface, making it difficult to understand and predict how structural changes influence NP activity. We investigated the electrochemical properties of small (dcore < 2.5 nm) gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) on boron doped diamond electrodes using three different electrode fabrication techniques with varying degrees of nanoparticle-electrode interface definition. Two methods to attach AuNPs to the electrode through a covalently bound molecular linker we...
Role of echocardiography for catheter-based management of valvular heart disease

Catheter-based treatment of valvular heart disease, such as transvalvular aortic valve replacement (TAVR) or mitral clip procedure, has been increasingly accepted as a treatment choice for the past several years. Such new treatment options have been changing the management of patients with valvular heart disease drastically while socio-economic factors regarding their application need to be taken into consideration. The use of echocardiography, including transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), for such catheter-based treatments is essential for the success of the procedures. Severe hypotension after TAVR is a life-threatening emergency. Rapid assessment and diagnosis in the catheterization or hybrid laboratory is essential for safety and a positive outcome. Possible diagnoses in this critical situation would include severe left ventricular dysfunction due to coronary obstruction, cardiac tamponade, aortic rupture, acute severe aortic and/or mitral valve regurgitation, and hypovolemia due to bleeding. Although new types of TAVR valves reduce para-valvular aortic regurgitation (AR) significantly, it is still important to judge the severity of para-valvular AR correctly in the laboratory. As for mitral clip procedure, TEE is vital for guiding and monitoring the entire process. Accurate identification of the location and the geometry of the regurgitant orifice is necessary for proper placement of the clip. Real-time 3D TEE provides helpful en face view of the mitral valve and clip together to this end. Residual mitral regurgitation (MR) after the first clip is not uncommon. Quick and precise imaging of the residual MR (location and severity) with TEE is extremely important for the interventionist to place the second clip and possibly third clip properly. After the completion of the clip procedure, mitral valve stenosis and also iatrogenic atrial septal defect need to be checked by TEE. Echocardiography, especially TEE, is also vital for the success of other newer trans-catheter procedures such as device closure of para-valvular MR of the artificial valve, valve in valve procedure, and native valve replacement.
Host resistance and tolerance of parasitic gut worms depend on resource availability

Resource availability can significantly alter host-parasite dynamics. Abundant food can provide more resources for hosts to resist infections, but also increase host tolerance of infections by reducing competition between hosts and parasites for food. Whether abundant food favors host resistance or tolerance (or both) might depend on the type of resource that the parasite exploits (e.g., host tissue vs. food), which can vary based on the stage of infection. In our study, we evaluated how low and high resource diets affect Cuban tree frog (Osteopilus septentrionalis) resistance and tolerance of a skin-penetrating, gut nematode Aplectana sp. at each stage of the infection. Compared to a low resource diet, a high resource diet enhanced frog resistance to worm penetration and tolerance while worms traveled to the gut. In contrast, a low resource diet increased resistance to establishment of the infection. After the infection established and worms could access food resources in the gut, a high resource diet enhanced host tolerance of parasites. On a high resource diet, parasitized frogs consumed significantly more food than non-parasitized frogs; when food was then restricted, mass of non-parasitized frogs did not change, whereas mass of parasitized frogs decreased significantly. Thus, a high resource diet increased frog tolerance of established worms because frogs could fully compensate for energy lost to the parasites. Our study shows that host-parasite dynamics are influenced by the effect of resource availability on host resistance and tolerance, which depends on when parasites have access to food and the stage of infection.
Creativity and Culture in Visual Art

Visual art is a paradigmatic domain of creative activity. Two- or three-dimensional depictions are made in every human culture, but this endeavor has been conceptualized and executed in a huge variety of ways: in methods of producing art, its functions and styles, and in how art is defined. Some researchers suggest that socio-cultural factors are paramount in determining how artistic creativity manifests itself. In this chapter I explore the evidence for this view, as well as for an alternative perspective, which argues that despite the great cross-cultural variability in many aspects of art, numerous strong regularities in artistic expression also exist. These suggest that human visual aesthetics may be largely grounded in biological and cognitive factors, and not in more or less arbitrary socio-cultural conventions.
Gender Retirement Gap

Many people save for retirement through their employer, who in turn applies gender-neutral saving rates, investment choices, and spending strategies in retirement. Intuitively this creates a sense of fairness, but this intuition masks the reality that many women face. Lifetime earnings and spending in retirement are anything but average for women. Consequently, the challenges women face are arguably greater than those confronted by men.
A randomized approach to large-scale subspace clustering

Subspace clustering has become a popular tool for clustering high-dimensional non-linearly separable data. However, state-of-the-art subspace clustering algorithms do not scale well as the number of data increases. The present paper puts forth a novel randomized subspace clustering scheme for high-volume data based on random projections. Performance of the proposed method is assessed via numerical tests, and is compared with state-of-the-art subspace clustering and large-scale subspace clustering methods.
Surgical treatment of valvular heart disease: Part I. Criteria for operability in rheumatic heart diseaseMitral valve lesions

Abstract In the sick patient with mitral valve disease, surgery is unquestionably an important adjunct in our therapeutic armamentarium. The proper time for surgery can best be defined by correlating the clinical and hemodynamic features of the individual case with the life history of rheumatic valvular disease. Once embarked upon, the operation should be done in the manner which gives the best possible result with the least risk, always preserving the patient's valve when possible.
Models and Explanation

Detailed examinations of scientific practice have revealed that the use of idealized models in the sciences is pervasive. These models play a central role in not only the investigation and prediction of phenomena, but also in their received scientific explanations. This has led philosophers of science to begin revising the traditional philosophical accounts of scientific explanation in order to make sense of this practice. These new model-based accounts of scientific explanation, however, raise a number of key questions: Can the fictions and falsehoods inherent in the modeling practice do real explanatory work? Do some highly abstract and mathematical models exhibit a noncausal form of scientific explanation? How can one distinguish an exploratory how-possibly model explanation from a genuine how-actually model explanation? Do modelers face tradeoffs such that a model that is optimized for yielding explanatory insight, for example, might fail to be the most predictively accurate, and vice versa? This chapter explores the various answers that have been given to these questions.
Measuring Scientific Reasoning for Graduate Admissions in Psychology and Related Disciplines

In two studies, we examined the convergent and discriminant validation of a new assessment of scientific reasoning that could be used for graduate admissions in psychology, educational psychology, human development, and in the psychological sciences more generally. The full assessment ultimately consisted of tests of generating hypotheses, generating experiments, drawing conclusions, serving as a reviewer of a scientific article, and serving as an editor of a scientific journal. The tests had generally good convergent-discriminant validity. Certain socially defined ethnic/racial group differences were observed.
On the Continuum of Exit: Understanding the Stages of Change Among Women in Commercial Sexual Exploitation

Examining the involvement of women in commercial sexual exploitation (CSE), and the process of exit, as stages of change, from a non-western perspective, is an attempt to expand and build knowledge base about the exit process. This study included 163 women in, exiting or already exited CSE from five places in India–Bangalore, Mumbai, Kolkata, Goa, and Delhi. Forty-two percent of these women had entered as minors, and poor economic condition was a major driving force, with the women having an average stay of 10 years in the sex industry. Transtheoretical or Stages of Change model was used to guide the understanding of exit process. An exploratory factor analysis identified four stages of change—denial, hopeful, actively working, and perseverance—as the best fitting model for this population. Most of the women who exited (70%) highlighted the role of social welfare agencies in facilitating change towards exit. This article promotes an inclusive approach of placing individuals at different stages along the continuum of exit, and providing more finessed stage-specific services that facilitate exit from CSE, rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all approach that treats all women in or exiting CSE as a homogenous group.
Initial Evidence for the Reliability and Validity of the Student Risk Screening Scale for Internalizing and Externalizing Behaviors at the Elementary Level.

We report findings of an exploratory validation study of a revised instrument: the Student Risk Screening Scale-Internalizing and Externalizing (SRSS-IE). The SRSS-IE was modified to include seven ...
Neurochemical and Behavioral Alterations in Aging and in Animal Models of Alzheimer’s Disease

Central cholinergic neurons appear to play a critical role in cognitive function (Hington and Aprison, 1976; Deutsch and Rogers, 1979). Furthermore, it has been suggested that impaired cholinergic transmission may be at least partly responsible for the memory deficits occurring during aging (Drachman and Leavitt, 1974; Bartus et al., 1982; Davis and Yesavage, 1979). Much of the support for this hypothesis derives from pharmacological studies. For example, when scopolamine, a muscarinic receptor antagonist, was administered to yound adult humans and monkeys, decrements in cognitive task performance resulted which mimic those deficits found in aged subjects (Safer and Allen, 1971; Drachman and Leavitt, 1974; Bartus and Johnson, 1976). The scopolamine-induced cognitive dysfunction is selectively reversed by drugs which enhance cholinergic transmission (Drachman, 1977; Bartus, 1978a). Cholinomimetic drugs, such as physostig- mine or arecoline or other pharmacologic cholinergic enhancement result in improved performance on memory tasks (Davies et al., 1978; Sitaram et al., 1978; Bartus, 1979) and also reverse the memory impairments due to age.
Parameter identification of linear discrete stochastic systems with time delays

An identification algorithm that uses the maximum likelihood technique to identify the unknown time delays, plant parameters, and noise covariances of linear discrete stochastic systems is presented. Cases of additive white noise and colored measurement noises are considered. The likelihood function is evaluated using either a minimum-variance (Kalman) filter or a minimal-order observer. The Kalman filter is used in the identification algorithm to provide minimum-variance estimates. The minimal-order observer is a lower-dimensional and computationally simpler filter, and is advantageous especially for systems with long delays. It provides a less optimal solution to the minimum-mean-square state estimation problem. The colored-noise observer algorithm has the disadvantage of having to compute an extra error covariance matrix of lower order.
Exploring information-triage: speculative interface tools to help college students conduct online research

In many ways, the promise of the Internet has been overshadowed by a sense of overload and anxiety for many users. The concept of information-triage may help mitigate this issue. Information-triage is the process of sorting, grouping, categorizing, prioritizing, storing and retrieving information in order to make sense and use of it. This study examines the role of design in the online search process, connects it to the nature of human attention and the limitations of working memory, and suggests ways to support users with an information triage system. The study centers on a set of three speculative online search interfaces and user-testing sessions conducted with college students to explore the possibilities for information-triage.