cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Perceived loudness and visually-determined auditory distance.

Three experiments were conducted to determine whether variations in the perceived distance to a test sound could influence its loudness in the absence of physical changes in sound-level. The phenomenon of visual capture provided the means for manipulating apparent distance. A ‘dummy’ loudspeaker was used to vary the apparent source location of a short noise stimulus while the true source of this sound remained fixed (and hidden) with respect to the observer. Sound-levels from 40 to 75 dB(A) were presented to independent groups of observers in either anechoic or semi-reverberant acoustical environments. In general, reported loudness increased with perceived distance. This finding has implications for conceptualizing the phenomenon of loudness constancy.
THE OSMOTIC ADAPTATION OF THE FAIRY SHRIMP BRANCHINECTA CAMPESTRIS LYNCH TO SALINE ASTATIC WATERS1

The fairy shrimp Branchinecta campestris was found in association with Artemia salina (L.) in four saline astatic lakes in Okanogan County, Washington, and in British Columbia. In all four lakes sulfate was the predominant ion making up in milliequivalence 48% of the total ions. The predominant cations sodium and magnesium occurred in varying proportions. The osmotic concentration of Penley Lake from hatching to death of the adult population of B. campestris increased progressively from 36 to 660 mOsm/liter. At concentrations of 286 mOsm/liter and less, B. campestris regulates hyperosmotically. However, from 451 to 660 mOsm/liter B. campestris is poikiloosmotic and not a hypoosmotic regulator like A. salina. Therefore, its ability to live in saline astatic waters can be partly attributed to tolerance of a high hemolymph concentration. Coexistence between A. salina and B. campestris is brief. B. campestris is restricted to the early phase of the saline astatic lake, characterized by low but increasing salinity and temperature, whereas A. salina appears a month later and is restricted to the high salinity-temperature phase of the lake. Factors responsible for temporal separation of these two species appear to be differences in osmoregulation and in factors regulating development and hatching.
Object oriented simulation tools necessary for a flexible batch process management architecture

Present an architecture for batch process management with particular emphasis on the simulation tools contained in the environment. Within the architecture are a suite of high-level tools that interface with a user to obtain a high level of batch processing flexibility. These high-level tools are being developed in a modular fashion. Two simulation assistants have been proposed for a complete batch process management architecture. These include a batch sequencing simulation assistant and a control specification simulation assistant. It is felt that these tools will significantly increase the batch process management life-cycle time and increase process plant flexibility. >
Aftereffects of Entrainment on the Period of the Pacemaker in the Eye of the Mollusk Bulla gouldiana

The authors examined the "aftereffects" of entrainment of Bulla gouldiana to 11 h light:11 h dark (LD 11:11) (T22) or LD 13:13 (T26) on the period (tau) of the circadian rhythm of impulse activity recorded in vitro from the eye in constant darkness. When both eyes remained attached to the cerebral ganglion, the average period was 23.9 +/- 0.62 h (mean +/- SD, n = 6) for animals from T22 and 24.9 +/- 0.54 h for animals from T26. The 1-h difference between the periods of the T26 and the T22 animals was significant (p < .01, t test). When eyes were isolated from the cerebral ganglion by severing the optic nerve, the difference in average period between eyes from T22 and eyes from T26 animals was 2.2 h (23.3 +/- 0.72 h [n = 7] vs. 25.5 +/- 0.62 [n = 6], p < .001). When eyes remained attached to the brain but uncoupled from the contralateral eye, the aftereffect of entrainment to non-24-h light cycles was intermediate. For T22 animals, tau was 23.9 +/- 0.29 h (n = 6), whereas for the T26 animals, tau = 25.2 +/- 0.48 h (n = 7). The results show that isolated eyes can express aftereffects and indicate that coupling between ocular pacemakers and efferent signals from the cerebral ganglion diminish the effects of entrainment on the free-running period of the rhythm from the eye.
Evidence for a Curvilinear Relationship Between Job Performance and Turnover

Research on job performance and turnover has not investigated the possibility of a curvilinear relationship between these variables. The present study tested for the presence of a curvilinear relationship between job performance and turnover in two diverse employee groups, using samples of 169 male accountants (average age: 25.6 years) and 107 owner-operator truck drivers (average age: 38.4 years). Measures of performance for the two samples were obtained from company records. Testing for a curvilinear effect within each sample was done by regressing performance and the performance squared term on turnover, and confirming the findings by using logistic regression. The resulting standardized regression equations were plottedfor each sample, using scores one to three standard deviations above and below the mean of the independent variables. Results indicated that performance was related to turnover in a curvilinear fashion in both professional and non-professional samples.
The Mevalonate Pathway Controls Heart Formation in Drosophila by Isoprenylation of Gγ1

The early morphogenetic mechanisms involved in heart formation are evolutionarily conserved. A screen for genes that control Drosophila heart development revealed a cardiac defect in which pericardial and cardial cells dissociate, which causes loss of cardiac function and embryonic lethality. This phenotype resulted from mutations in the genes encoding HMG-CoA reductase, downstream enzymes in the mevalonate pathway, and G protein Gγ1, which is geranylgeranylated, thus representing an end point of isoprenoid biosynthesis. Our findings reveal a cardial cell–autonomous requirement of Gγ1 geranylgeranylation for heart formation and suggest the involvement of the mevalonate pathway in congenital heart disease.
The Impact of High-Performance Human Resource Practices on Employees’ Attitudes and Behaviors

Although strategic human resource (HR) management research has established a significant relationship between high-performance HR practices and firm-level financial and market outcomes, few studies have considered the important role of employees’ perceptions of HR practice use or examined the more proximal outcomes of high-performance HR practices that may play mediating roles in the HR practice–performance relationship. To address recent calls in the literature for an investigation of this nature, this study examined the relationships between employees’ perceptions of high-performance HR practice use in their job groups and employee absenteeism, intent to remain with the organization, and organizational citizenship behavior, dedicating a focus to the possible mediating role of affective organizational commitment in these relationships. Data in this study were collected from surveys of employees at a large multiunit food service organization. The model was tested with CWC(M) mediation analysis (i.e., cent...
A fully surface-micromachined piezoelectric accelerometer

A micromachined piezoelectric accelerometer has been designed and fabricated using an entirely surface-micromachining-based process flow. The device consists of a 1000 /spl mu/m long polysilicon cantilever structure with sputtered ZnO as the piezoelectric material. Experimental results show good linearity (<2%) over a /spl plusmn/25 g range. The theoretical device sensitivity and noise performance are determined and compared to actual performance. A second-generation accelerometer design is presented which offers higher sensitivity and utilizes piezoelectric force balancing in order to achieve improved dynamic range and linearity.
Colesevelam Hydrochloride: A Novel Bile Acid-Binding Resin

OBJECTIVE:To review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and adverse effects of colesevelam hydrochloride, a bile acid—binding resin.METHODS:MEDLINE searches (1966–June 2000) and manufacturer prescribing literature were employed to find articles on colesevelam. Additional studies and abstracts were identified from the bibliographies of reviewed literature.STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION:All articles identified from data sources were evaluated, and all information deemed relevant was included in this review. Priority was given to randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies.FINDINGS:Colesevelam HCl is a nonabsorbed hydrogel with bile acid sequestrant properties. Monotherapy using colesevelam in once-daily or two divided daily doses of 1.5–4.5 g has produced significant reductions in total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Mean LDL cholesterol decreases to 20% have been noted when the patient is on 3.75–4.5 g/d. Increases in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) choles...
Women with HIV infection on antiretroviral therapy with low viral loads can safely opt for vaginal delivery in the absence of obstetrical risk factors.

Commentary on: Briand N, Jasseron C, Sibiude J, et al. Cesarean section for HIV-infected women in the combination antiretroviral therapies era, 2000–2010. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2013;209:335e1–12.[OpenUrl][1] The risk of mother-to-child HIV transmission (MTCT) is related to the infant's exposure to HIV-infected maternal blood during birth. Studies published in 1999 have shown a protective effect from elective caesarean section (ECS) in reducing the risk of MTCT.1 ,2 However, these studies were conducted prior to use of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) in pregnancy becoming widespread. Antiretroviral therapy through maximum suppression of maternal viral load is the most effective means of preventing MTCT.3 Whether there is any additional benefit from ECS for mothers with … [1]: {openurl}?query=rft.jtitle%253DAm%2BJ%2BObstet%2BGynecol%26rft.volume%253D209%26rft.spage%253D335e1%26rft.genre%253Darticle%26rft_val_fmt%253Dinfo%253Aofi%252Ffmt%253Akev%253Amtx%253Ajournal%26ctx_ver%253DZ39.88-2004%26url_ver%253DZ39.88-2004%26url_ctx_fmt%253Dinfo%253Aofi%252Ffmt%253Akev%253Amtx%253Actx
Autoregressive statistical pattern recognition algorithms for damage detection in civil structures

Abstract Statistical pattern recognition has recently emerged as a promising set of complementary methods to system identification for automatic structural damage assessment. Its essence is to use well-known concepts in statistics for boundary definition of different pattern classes, such as those for damaged and undamaged structures. In this paper, several statistical pattern recognition algorithms using autoregressive models, including statistical control charts and hypothesis testing, are reviewed as potentially competitive damage detection techniques. To enhance the performance of statistical methods, new feature extraction techniques using model spectra and residual autocorrelation, together with resampling-based threshold construction methods, are proposed. Subsequently, simulated acceleration data from a multi degree-of-freedom system is generated to test and compare the efficiency of the existing and proposed algorithms. Data from laboratory experiments conducted on a truss and a large-scale bridge slab model are then used to further validate the damage detection methods and demonstrate the superior performance of proposed algorithms.
Non-lethal force and peace operations

The changed national security policy of the United States government implies a new national security strategy subsuming a new military strategy. The strategic emphasis is upon a fundamentally different approach to the use of force. Within this context, the focus of the paper is upon a detailed consideration of the role of non-lethal force in peace operations.
Prosecuting International Crimes in Africa: Lessons from Rwanda and Reflections on the Future

In this article the former Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda reflects on his experiences to respond to the question: what options are available for Africa in dealing with mass atrocity crimes based on the ICTR experience? The article notes the pedigree of Africa in terms of international criminal justice and the contributions this allows it to bring to the broad questions of ensuring justice for mass atrocities and building peace and reconciliation after such incidences.
Exploratory Study of Potential Applications of Unmanned Aerial Systems for Construction Management Tasks

Despite studies exploring potential applications of unmanned aerial systems (UASs), the particular use and value of visual assets (photographs or video) collected with UASs for construction management tasks is not well understood. This paper presents an exploratory case study to identify potential applications of visual assets obtained from UASs for construction management tasks. The case study involved the development of a visual assets database from UAS-based images and videos collected during UAS flights at jobsites in the United States and Brazil as well as semi-structured interviews with construction project personnel. The results revealed potential applications of UASs mainly for project progress monitoring, job site logistics, evaluating safety conditions, and quality inspections among other secondary management tasks. In addition, an analysis of costs related to the use of UASs was performed. The main contribution of this case study is a better understanding of the use of UASs for construction management tasks and their regulatory and cost implications.
Feedlot performance of beef heifers implanted with Synovex-H: effect of melengestrol acetate, ovariectomy or active immunization against GnRH.

The effects on anabolic steroid implantation on feedlot performance and carcass composition and quality were examined in control (CNTRL), ovariectomized (OVX) or melengestrol acetate-fed (MGA) beef heifers or heifers actively immunized against GnRH (Anti-GnRH). Heifers (n = 112) were assigned randomly to a 2 x 4 factorial experiment. The two classes were made up of heifers not implanted and those implanted with Synovex-H. The four treatments were 1) CNTRL, 2) MGA, 3) OVX and 4) Anti-GnRH. Heifers were housed in individual pens and fed a high-energy diet for the 4-mo study. Synovex-H increased final live weight (P less than .005), carcass weight (P less than .005), ADG (P less than .0001) and feed efficiency (P less than .005) but did not alter carcass quality and yield grade (P greater than .05). Synovex-H increased deposition of protein (P less than .0001) and reduced deposition of fat (P less than .0001). Oral administration of MGA had no significant effect on feedlot performance or carcass quality. For heifers not implanted, active immunization against GnRH, but not ovariectomy, depressed ADG (P less than .05) and increased fat deposition (P less than .05) while reducing protein deposition (P less than .05). These effects of active immunization were reversed by concurrent administration of Synovex-H. Feedlot performance and carcass composition of heifers were improved by administration of anabolic steroids. When heifers were housed singly, neither ovariectomy, active immunization against GnRH nor oral administration of MGA improved feedlot performance of heifers implanted with Synovex-H.
Abdominal aortic aneurysms

The standard definition of an arterial aneurysm is a permanent, localized dilation of an artery with at least a 50% increase in diameter when compared to the normal expected diameter of the vessel.1 The diameter of the infrarenal aorta, the most common extracranial location for arterial aneurysms, is normally less than 2 cm. Thus, most studies use an aortic diameter of 3 cm or greater to define the presence of an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Data from multiple screening studies using this definition have determined the prevalence of AAA to range from 4% to 8% in elderly individuals.2,3
Electrocardiographic Changes are Associated with Elevated Blood Pressure Rather Than a Direct Effect of Raised Intracranial Pressure

The association between electrocardiographic abnormalities and elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) stemming from cerebrovascular accidents is well known. However, to our knowledge, no correlation has been made between specific electrocardiographic changes and the degree of measured ICP. In this study, the role of elevated ICP in the development of electrocardiographic changes and various cardiac arrhythmias was investigated.
Comparison of resting scapular position and range of combined shoulder elevation between junior swimmer players with and without shoulder pain

Objective: The present study was aimed to compare the resting scapular position, combined range of shoulder elevation, and pectoralis minor length in the junior swimmers with and without shoulder pain. Methods: Thirty-nine swimmers in both gender aged 13-20 years participated in this study. The primary parameters were Superior Kibler (SK), Inferior Kibler (IK), Scapular Index (SI), Muscle length of pectoralis minor (PMi), and the combined range of shoulder elevation (CSE). Comparisons were made a) between the bilateral shoulder pain and control group and b) between shoulders within the unilateral shoulder pain group. Results: When compared between the bilateral and control group, the mean values of SK (6.04±1.19 cm. vs. 5.94±0.97 cm.), IK (7.82±1.31 cm. vs. 7.67±1.38 cm.), PMi (3.97±1.27 cm. vs. 3.94±1.25 cm.), and CSE (-0.99±6.80 vs. - 4.02±7.88) were not significantly different. However, the mean value of SI of the bilateral shoulder pain group (53.83±6.58 cm.) was significantly less (p <0.05 ) than that of the control group (56.83±5.4 cm). When compared within the unilateral shoulder pain group, there was no statistically significant noted in these parameters. Conclusion: The present study demonstrated that the SI which could inform the forward scapular posture was the best parameter to differentiate swimmers with and without shoulder pain. Bull Chiang Mai Assoc Med Sci 2013; 46(1): 49-58
FITNESS CONSEQUENCES OF SEASONAL POLYPHENISM IN WESTERN WHITE BUTTERFLIES

The western white butterfly, Pontia occidentalis, has distinctly different wing phenotypes during spring and summer generations as a result of phenotypic plasticity (seasonal polyphenism). We experimentally generated different seasonal phenotypes in the lab by altering photoperiodic conditions during rearing, and released the resulting butterflies in the field. Mark-recapture studies were then used to estimate the effects of the polyphenism on activity patterns and adult survival in both late-spring (one study) and summer (two studies) conditions. There were no significant effects of rearing treatment on temporal patterns of behavioral activity during either the late-spring or the summer field studies. Recapture probabilities were consistently higher for males than females in all three field studies; in the summer 1992 study, recapture probabilities were higher for long-day (LD) than for short-day (SD) treatment groups. During the late-spring 1992 study, there were no significant differences between LD and SD treatment groups for survival probabilities. In the two summer studies, there were significant effects of photoperiodic treatment on survival probabilities; in the summer 1992 study, LD individuals consistently had higher survival probabilities than SD individuals; in the summer 1991 study, there was a significant interaction between treatment and time period on survival probabilities, such that survival probabilities were higher for LD than for SD individuals in two of four time periods. The consistent differences in survival probabilities between treatment groups in the summer 1992 study can be accounted for by the differences in wing traits between the treatment groups. Micrometeorological data from the study site showed that midday ambient temperatures averaged ~3°C hotter during the 1992 than the 1991 summer study and that ambient conditions during the late-spring 1992 study were relatively warm and sunny for the season. These results document the varying relationships between phenotype and fitness in the temporally fluctuating environments experienced by this population.
Formation and Structure of Sclerotia and Sclerotium-Specific Proteins in Hygrophoropsis Aurantiaca

Hygrophoropsis aurantiaca is a widely occurring wood decay basidiomycete. The material presented represents the first report of sclerotium production by isolates of this fungus in axenic culture. Anatomy of sclerotia and influence of certain nutritional factors on sclerotium production have been investigated. In liquid culture H. aurantiaca grew on a variety of nitrogen sources, but generally failed to produce sclerotia. Likewise, C:N ratio affected growth and colony morphology in liquid culture but failed to induce sclerotia. A significant effeet of C:N ratio on sclerotium number was observed with solid media containing glucose and ammonium chloride, with optimal production at C:N ratios of 2.0-3.5. Sclerotia consisted of a distinct melanized rind and a pseudoparenchymatous medulla. Medullary cells contained glycogen and numerous protein bodies. One dimensional SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed presence of sclerotium-specific proteins. Molecular weight estimates of major sclerotium-specific proteins were similar to those reported for other basidiomycetes and lower than reported values for ascomycetes. Future investigations of sclerotium-specific proteins may contribute to our understanding of the taxonomic placement of this fungus.
Qualitative Interviews of Romanian Key Informants Guiding a Preliminary Health Needs Assessment of Romanian Immigrants in Southern California

Background: Current literature suggests that immigrant populations face greater challenges in regards to health and healthcare which are caused by a variety of factors, including language, socioeconomic status, acculturation, and health beliefs. The scope of this research was to conduct a preliminary health needs assessment of the Romanian-American population as a first step towards creating culturally tailored health programs to meet their needs. Methods and Results: Qualitative data was acquired through semistructured interviews with key stakeholders (n= 5) in the Romanian health care system, in Romania, revealing a total of 5 themes. The data was compiled and analyzed to discover the main health beliefs that contribute to the health behaviors present in this population. Conclusion: These data begin to identify important health beliefs and risk factors unique to this population and clarify priorities for future research in the U.S.
Research on Bi-Directional Reactive Power Dynamic Compensation Based on Inverter Voltage Regulation

This paper presents a novel dynamic reactive power compensation device which can implement the system dynamic reactive power compensation with a smaller inverter capacity,and realize the purpose of improving the power factor and voltage stability. Taking the voltage and reactive power of the busbar in the low-voltage system as the control object,this device adjusts the voltage of compensation capacitors or inductors by controlling the inverter output voltage,so as to dyna-mically adjust the reactive power emitted or absorbed by SVC. Combined with the fixed compensation,it can achieve a wide range of two-way dynamic reactive power compensation with a small inverter capacity,therefor reducing the cost. Modeling and simulation are carried on the platform of PSCAD/EMTDC and the results have verified the feasibility and effectiveness of the compensation strategy.
The Equity/ Expectancy Framework Interfaced With the Psychological Contract to Describe the Salesperson Motivation Behavioral Process

This paper offers a conceptual model of the salesperson behavioral process. On the basis of equity/inequity theory and expectancy-valence theory, specific relationships between different cognitive variables are identified. Psychological contracts are introduced as a means to further the development of the motivational process. Implications from a managerial perspective and future directions for research are also discussed.
A “Semi-Pagan Tyrant?”

Birk examines the role Muslims played for the rulers of Sicily in the eleventh and twelfth centuries. The chapter covers the challenges faced by Adelaide as a female regent and the increasing symbolic import of Muslims in Sicilian politics under her and her son Roger II’s rule. Birk shows that Muslim soldiers and administrators were used as symbols of Sicilian power, illustrating the scope of royal authority, while Muslim agrarian workers became a financial asset as sources of labor and tax revenue. The chapter concludes by discussing the depiction of Muslim soldiers in contemporary sources and argues that, though they garnered little attention from authors north of the regno, their importance was understood by both Roger’s allies and enemies in the newly formed regno.
Fear of hypoglycemia: Influence on glycemic variability and self-management behavior in young adults with type 1 diabetes.

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this study was to examine how fear of hypoglycemia (FOH) is associated with glycemic variability (GV) and self-management behavior in young adults (aged 18–35) with type 1 diabetes (T1DM). Procedures Using a prospective repeated-measures design, in 35 young adults, within- and between-person and temporal associations of FOH, specific self-management behaviors, and GV were measured. The data were collected using questionnaires and real-time measures using daily diaries, insulin pump downloads, actigraphy, and continuous glucose monitoring. Findings FOH was associated with greater glycemic variability. Significant temporal associations emerged. Concurrent day (glucose SD, p = .011) and previous-evening fear levels were associated with GV (glucose SD, p = .007). FOH was also associated with greater calorie intake (r = .492, p = .003) and less physical activity (light activity, r = − .341, p = .045). Conclusions The significant associations of FOH with GV, dietary patterns, and physical activity provide evidence for FOH as an important psychological factor associated with diabetes care.
Membrane Pore Spacing Can Modulate Endothelial Cell–Substrate and Cell–Cell Interactions

Mechanical cues and substrate interaction affect the manner in which cells adhere, spread, migrate and form tissues. With increased interest in tissue-on-a-chip and coculture systems utilizing porous membranes, it is important to understand the role of disrupted surfaces on cellular behavior. Using a transparent glass membrane with defined pore geometries, we investigated endothelial fibronectin fibrillogenesis and formation of focal adhesions as well as development of intercellular junctions. Cells formed fewer focal adhesions and had shorter fibronectin fibrils on porous membranes compared to nonporous controls, which was similar to cell behavior on continuous soft substrates with Young’s moduli 7 orders of magnitude lower than glass. Additionally, porous membranes promoted enhanced cell–cell interactions as evidenced by earlier formation of tight junctions. These findings suggest that porous membranes with discontinuous surfaces promote reduced cell–matrix interactions similarly to soft substrates and ...
From the street to public service: ‘Humans of New York’ photographer’s journey to journalism:

The ‘Humans of New York’ social media feed, featuring photographs of people in New York City – and in recent years also Iran, Syria, and other locations – has amassed nearly 18 million Facebook fol...
Human activity and habitat type affect perceived predation risk in urban white-footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus)

Predation risk is one of the largest costs associated with foraging in small mammals. Small mammals select microhabitat features such as tree and shrub canopy cover, woody debris and vegetative ground cover that can lower the risk of detection from predators and provide greater protection if discovered. Small mammals also increase foraging activity and decrease selection for cover when cloud cover increases and moon illumination is less. Often researchers assume small mammals in urban areas respond to these cues in the same manner as in natural areas, but these cues themselves are altered in urban zones. In this study, we investigated how Amur honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii) and coarse woody debris (CWD) affected giving-up density (GUD) in white-footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus). Each of three habitat treatments (open flood channel, the edge and interior of the honeysuckle patch) contained cover treatments with coarse woody debris present or absent. The six treatment combinations were compared to environmental variables (temperature, humidity and illumination) and habitat variables to test their effect on GUD. Peromyscus leucopus foraged to lower densities in areas with CWD present and also under the honeysuckle canopy, using this invasive shrub to decrease predation risk, potentially increasing survivability within this urban park. Increased human presence negatively affected foraging behavior across treatments. Human presence and light pollution significantly influenced P. leucopus, modifying their foraging behavior and demonstrating that both fine- and coarse-scale urban factors can affect small mammals. Foraging increased as humidity increased, particularly under the honeysuckle canopy. Changes in illumination due to moonlight and cloud cover did not affect foraging behavior, suggesting urban light pollution may have altered behavioral responses to changes in light levels. Lonicera maackii seemed to facilitate foraging in P. leucopus, even though it adversely affects the plant community, suggesting that its impact may not be entirely negative.
Somatic mutations and clonal hematopoiesis: unexpected potential new drivers of age-related cardiovascular disease

Increasing evidence shows that conventional cardiovascular risk factors are incompletely predictive of cardiovascular disease, particularly in elderly individuals, suggesting that there may still be unidentified causal risk factors. Although the accumulation of somatic DNA mutations is a hallmark of aging, its relevance in cardiovascular disease or other age-related conditions has been, with the exception of cancer, largely unexplored. Here, we review recent clinical and preclinical studies that have identified acquired mutations in hematopoietic stem cells and subsequent clonal hematopoiesis as a new cardiovascular risk factor and a potential major driver of atherosclerosis. Understanding the mechanisms underlying the connection between somatic mutation-driven clonal hematopoiesis and cardiovascular disease will be highly relevant in the context of personalized medicine, as it may provide key information for the design of diagnostic, preventive, or therapeutic strategies tailored to the effects of specific somatic mutations.
Advances in modelling switchable mechanically interlocked molecular architectures

AbstractThe development of switchable mechanically interlocked molecular architectures (MIMAs) is an active area of experimental and theoretical research because the environmental-responsiveness of...
The case for onloading continuous high-datarate perception to the phone

Much has been said recently on off-loading computations from the phone. In particular, workloads such as speech and visual recognition that involve models based on "big data" are thought to be prime candidates for cloud processing. We posit that the next few years will see the arrival of mobile usages that require continuous processing of audio and video data from wearable devices. We argue that these usages are unlikely to flourish unless substantial computation is moved back on to the phone. We outline possible solutions to the problems inherent in such a move. We advocate a close partnership between perception and systems researchers to realize these usages.
The four square theorem

In this chapter we prove that every natural number is the sum of four integer squares, following a proof of Hurwitz. This proof has been chosen because it resembles the proof of Fermat’s two square theorem already given in Chapter 6, and because it introduces the quaternions, a mathematical structure with many beautiful algebraic and geometric features.
Working Through the Uncertainties in Equity-Oriented Supervision

“Ewwwwwww,” I hear from several student teachers sitting around the dinner table. It is the end of the semester and I have invited the group of pre-service students who I have been supervising to join me at a local restaurant so we can celebrate the end of their student teaching experiences.
Update Algebra: Toward Continuous, Non-Blocking Composition of Network Updates in SDN

The ability to support continuous network configuration updates is an important ability for enabling Software Defined Networks (SDN) to handle frequent or bursty changes. Current solutions for updating SDN configurations focus on one single update at a time, leading to slow, sequential (i.e., blocking) update execution. In this paper, we develop update algebra, a novel, systematic, theoretical framework based on abstract algebra, to enable continuous, non-blocking, fast composition of multiple updates. Specifically, by modeling each data-plane operation in the set of data-plane operations to be executed by an update as a set-theoretical projection, update algebra defines novel operation composition so that the number of projections for the same match remains constant regardless of the number of updates to be composed, leading to substantial performance benefits. Specifying the dependencies of the data-plane operations in updates as a subset of a free monoid in the general case and as partial ordering for basic consistency, update algebra defines update composition that preserves consistency, even under partially-executed updates, to guarantee correctness. We conduct asymptotic analysis, extensive benchmarking using a real controller, and integration with a real application to demonstrate the benefits of update algebra. In particular, our asymptotic analysis demonstrates that in independent-update dominant settings, update completion time of update algebra remains asymptotically constant despite growth of the number of updates to be executed. Our benchmarking shows that update algebra can achieve 16x reduction in update latency even in settings with an update arrival rate of only 1. 6/s. Our integration with Hedera, a real SDN traffic engineering application, shows that update algebra can reduce average link bandwidth utilization by 30% compared with sequential updates.
Introduction to Decision Making under Various Kinds of Uncertainty

All interest in decision making processes stems from uncertainty: when we are certain what course of action is best, we simply perform it without further consideration. Unfortunately, many obstacles exist which can prevent us from having this ideal certainty. Section 1 of this chapter surveys some of these obstacles, together with the paradigmatic problems that arise from each obstacle in its pure form. Section 2 presents a unifying framework, the general multiple facet optimization problem, which exploits some important isomorphisms among these problems. In Section 3, a fairly simple two-stage decision problem is viewed at several different levels of information, ranging from a mere incomplete ordering to an approximate statistical specification, in order to illustrate a number of different techniques for decision making that have been developed for the various levels of information. Finally, Section 4 summarizes the results presented in this chapter and discusses some promising areas for future research.
Efficient Any Source Capacity-Constrained Overlay Multicast in LDE-Based P2P Networks

Application level multicast has started gaining importance, as it is independent of router infrastructure unlike router-based IP multicast. The existing DHT-based application level multicast protocols work efficiently as long as there is almost no churn; otherwise, their performances start degrading drastically, because DHT – based structured architecture cannot handle churn effectively. Besides, most of these multicast protocols consider single data source and do not consider peer heterogeneity. In this work, we have considered an existing non-DHT based P2P architecture, which has already been shown to perform much better than some well-known DHT-based architectures from the viewpoints of speed of unicast communication and churn handling. Here, we have presented a highly efficient capacity-constrained and any source multicast protocol suitable for the non-DHT based P2P architecture as mentioned above.
Pathology of penile cancer and its precursor lesions

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most common tumor affecting the penis. Proper pathologic evaluation of penile tumors requires a working knowledge of the anatomy and histology of the penis, as the foreskin, glans penis, and penile shaft have different layers of tissue. The clinical manifestations of SCC in situ include erythroplasia of Queyrat, Bowen’s disease, and Bowenoid papulosis. SCCs of the penis most often originate on the glans penis, followed by the foreskin and penile shaft. These carcinomas most often show three patterns of growth (verruciform, superficial spreading, vertical), which are of prognostic importance. Predictive pathology features that need to be reported in penile SCC include histologic subtype, tumor grade, extent of invasion, lymphovascular invasion, perineural invasion, and TNM pathologic stage. Lastly, tumors other than SCC may affect the penis, including sarcomas, malignant melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and extra-mammary Paget’s disease.
Rosai–Dorfman Disease

Rosai–Dorfman disease is a benign disease characterized by a proliferation of histiocytes with distinctive cytologic and immunophenotypic features. Also known as sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy, Rosai–Dorfman disease is a rare disorder that was described almost simultaneously by Destombes, who reported four cases, and by Rosai and Dorfman, who characterized the disease in detail. Although most patients are young, the disease has been reported in all ages and races, more commonly in males. Rosai–Dorfman disease can affect any lymph node group, but most patients present with bilateral cervical lymphadenopathy. Extranodal involvement can occur in up to 40 % of patients, often forming masses involving the skin, upper respiratory tract, soft tissue, gastrointestinal tract, bones, breast, and central nervous system. Systemic symptoms such as fever and night sweats can be presenting features in a subset of patients. Laboratory studies occasionally demonstrate polyclonal hypergammaglobulinemia and/or hemolytic anemia. A subset of patients with Rosai–Dorfman disease may have immune disorders including glomerulonephritis, Wiskott–Aldrich syndrome, and inflammatory joint disease.
«Amor sin celos»: un debate académico en el Persiles. Apuntes sobre una idea cristiana

Cuando el grupo de peregrinos llega a Milan en el libro III del Persiles de Cervantes, oyen decir a un huesped que aquel dia se disputaba en la Academia de los Entronados «si podia haber amor sin celos». Este articulo presenta algunas calas en que se analiza el trasfondo ideologico de dicho debate academico y las ideas fundamentales del breve dialogo entre Auristela y Periandro. Al comparar este debate con perspectivas expresadas por Cervantes en otras de sus obras, principalmente en La Galatea , se evidencia el origen estoico y cristiano (biblico) de los conceptos de dicho debate academico.
Topological Hochschild homology of maximal orders in simple $\mathbb{Q}$–algebras

We calculate the topological Hochschild homology groups of a maximal order in a simple algebra over the rationals. Since the positive-dimensional THH groups consist only of torsion, we do this one prime ideal at a time for all the nonzero prime ideals in the center of the maximal order. This allows us to reduce the problem to studying the topological Hochschild homology groups of maximal orders A in simple ℚ p –algebras. We show that the topological Hochschild homology of A ∕ ( p ) splits as the tensor product of its Hochschild homology with THH ∗ ( F p ) . We use this result in Brun’s spectral sequence to calculate THH ∗ ( A , A ∕ ( p ) ) , and then we analyze the torsion to get π ∗ ( THH ( A ) p ∧ ) .
DETECTION OF FORWARD PROPULSION USING A SINGLE ACCELEROMETER DURING WALKING IN OLDER POPULATION

In the geriatric population, diminished ankle joint moment and weak plantar flexor can contribute to inadequate forward propulsion and negatively impact gait performance, which can lead to poor energetic efficiency. Detection of propulsion phase can help identify gait normality and guide rehabilitation therapy to improve functional performance. Current methods have limited application in daily life and unsuitable for continuous monitoring. In this study, we aim to develop algorithms based on a single sensor attached to the shin to accurately detect propulsion phase. Six elderly (age: 73 years, BMI: 30.4) were recruited. Participants walked at their normal pace while wearing a plantar pressure system and an accelerometer on the shin. The pressure data was used to define the beginning of the propulsion phase when the pressure switched from the heel to the forefoot. A wavelet algorithm was developed to automatically detect the start and end points of propulsion phase using an accelerometer. The Bland-Altman method was used to evaluate the agreement between these methods. Pearson’s Coefficient was used to quantify the correlation. Based on the Bland-Altman analysis, A high agreement was obtained between the proposed method using accelerometer and pressure sensor (bias =9 ms, precision = 30 ms). Both algorithms are significantly correlated (r = 0.85, p<0.05). This study presents an innovative algorithm to automatically detect the propulsion phase for older adults during walking. Using wearable could facilitate the capture of propulsion phase during living activity, which might provide more insights into the mechanism of walking during rehabilitation therapy.
Outcomes of Implementation of Continuous High-Frequency Oscillation Therapy on Cardiac Surgery Patients Prior to Liberation From Mechanical Ventilation

Background: Hyperinflation is routinely used to recruit lungs and prevent atelectasis in postoperative patients. This study evaluated the effectiveness of Continuous High-Frequency Oscillation Therapy (CHFO) on Cardiac Surgery (CV) patients before liberation from ventilator. We hypothesized that use of a CHFO device postoperatively (postop) would improve CV outcomes, including fewer pulmonary complications requiring antibiotics, reduced oxygen usage, and shorter ICU and hospital length-of-stay (LOS). There have been no previous studies conducted on adult CV subjects using CHFO prior to liberation from a vent. Methods: Study sample consisted of CV patients with ASA scores of 3 or greater between Jan 2018 and Jan 2019 at Mayo Clinic-Eau Claire, WI. Prior to intervention, standard of care was to perform 4 hyperinflation treatments/day after patient was extubated. We developed a protocol incorporating CHFO. After ICU admission, and while patient was still intubated, one 10 minute CHFO treatment was performed inline with the vent. Once extubated, patients received CHFO treatments QID for 48 h. After 48 h, patients continued treatment or CHFO was discontinued. Outcomes included postop. hospital and ICU LOS, duration on vent, oxygen usage, and infections needing antibiotics. Postop. outcomes prior to intervention were compared to outcomes post intervention using linear regression for continuous outcomes, and logistic regression for dichotomous outcomes. This study was approved by Mayo Clinic’s IRB. Results: 104 adult CV patients were studied with an ASA score ≥ 3 between Jan 2018 and Jan 2019, with 54 receiving standard of care and 50 receiving the CHFO Therapy. Standard of care patients tended to be older men (median age 70 yrs vs. 67; P = .009, 74% vs. 62%; P = .19). Compared to standard of care, CHFO Therapy patients had shorter vent days (0.6 days vs 1.1; P = .06), hospital LOS (6.2 days vs. 7.4; P = .04), ICU LOS (2.7 days vs. 3.4; P = .06), and oxygen usage (3.6 days vs. 4.2; P = .34). After multivariable adjustment, ICU LOS remained significant (0.85 fewer days; 95% CI = 0.06 to 1.65; P = .04). The CHFO Therapy group had fewer postop complications (10% vs. 20%; OR = 0.51; P = .26). Conclusions: Use of CHFO Therapy for CV patients prior to liberation from MV significantly reduced ICU LOS. Other outcomes of vent days, hospital LOS, and complications were superior although ultimately not different in the protocol group. Larger studies are needed to confirm findings.
Variation in Helminth Parasite Component Communities of Gambusia affinis

In north-central Texas streams, seasonal changes in ambient temperature and rainfall result in dynamic variation in microhabitat structure, affecting the distribution and abundance of hosts. Since the complex life cycles of parasites require the presence and interaction of multiple hosts, the seasonal variations in microhabitats could influence parasite component communities within these ecosystems. Gambusia affinis (western mosquitofish) serves as a host for a variety of larval and adult parasites. Factors that affect helminth component communities in populations of mosquitofish from the Paluxy River were investigated in this study. Gambusia affinis individuals were collected from 3 sites monthly from June 2015 through August 2016. All helminth parasites were collected during necropsy and subsequently identified. From 495 mosquitofish, 5,283 helminths were collected. Component community diversity varied among collection sites and collection dates and was positively influenced by river flow. These results indicate that helminth assemblages infecting mosquitofish in the Paluxy River vary through time and space, as well as in response to environmental variation (i.e., changes in water flow).
Chapter 6 – Clinical Immunology

Publisher Summary A healthy immune system is critical to survival. Clinical immunology is directed at evaluation of the immune system of patients and the ability of the immune system to respond to antigenic stimuli. Assays developed to target specific parts of the immune system enable the clinician not only to determine if a patient has normal immune responsiveness but also to target those parts of the immune system that are suspect of inadequate function. Serology has historically been used to determine retrospectively if a patient was infected with a particular disease agent; antibody titers continue to have importance in diagnostics. This chapter states that veterinary clinical immunology is a rapidly growing field that has lagged somewhat behind its human counterpart due to a lack of specific assays and reagents. In the past six years, the field of veterinary immunology has seen immense growth. The widespread use of molecular cloning techniques and the polymerase chain reaction have provided tools for development of probes and expressed genes that allow veterinary immunologists to measure cytokines, adhesion molecules, and a variety of other cell surface molecules. Awareness on the part of practicing veterinarians of some less common immunological diseases has increased, and some diseases with unknown etiology have been found to have a significant immune component.