cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sex Distribution and Frequency of Diabetic Concomitants or Complications

The data herein presented or reviewed indicate that the prevalence of concomitants or complications of diabetes such as hypertension, obesity, retinopathy, neuropathy, etc. may vary greatly from clinic to clinic. Though variable diagnostic criteria, observer error, ethnic or national differences may account for some of the disparity, selection of patients through death, economic factors, etc., which results in clinic rosters which are not representative of the total diabetic population also plays a role of undetermined significance. Hence definitive statements concerning the relative predisposition of males and females to concomitants or complications of diabetes must await standardization of population and criteria, data on incidence as well as prevalence, and expression of such data on a cumulative basis. Until then we can only speak of findings in limited populations because we have as yet no basis for intergroup comparisons.
Foundations of Supply Chain Management for Space Application

Supply Chain Management (SCM) is a key piece of the framework for America’s space technology investment as the Nati onal Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the aerospace industry, and international partners embark on a bold new vision of human and robotic space exploration beyond Low Earth -Orbit (LEO). This type of investment is driven by the Agency’s need fo r cost efficient operational support associated with , processing and operating space vehicles and address many of the biggest operational challenge including extremely tight funding profiles, seamless program -to -program transition activities and the reduct ion of the time gap with human spaceflight capabilities in the post -Shuttle era. An investment of this magnitude is a multiyear task and must include new patterns of thought within the engineering community to respect the importance of SCM and the integrat ion of the material and information flow. Experience within the Department of Defense and commercial sectors which has shown that support cost reductions and or avoidances of upwards to 35% over business as usual are achievable. It is SCM that will ultim ately bring the solar system within the economic sphere of our society. Applying aspects of the high -volume, market demand driven SCM disciplines of the commercial industry to a low -volume, schedule driven aerospace environment is not only possible but vital to accurately estimate, plan, control and manage the non -recurring and recurring costs assoc iated with long -term operations and vehicle processing of space f light and ground support e quipment . Applying th ese discipline s is especially crucial during the early design, development, test an d engineering (DDT&E) phase of a new program. Upwards of 70 to 80% of the operational recurring costs , which include 90% of the indirect processing costs associated with Launch and Landing core activities, are influe nced as a result of this initial phase of the product lifecycle. Breakthroughs in the commercial field of SCM are giving top -level commercial industry operations and production managers the forecasting and integration capability needed to create a just -in time and on -demand rapid mobilization of manufacturing sources . Comparatively , as we turn our attention to very large space endeavors , delegation of sustainment activities from the P rogram to the Project O ffices , complicates the integration and forecastin g of material and information flows , and could prevent true integration from ever being achieved . Good collaborative forecasting, planning and realistic replenishment scheduling is essential to an effective SCM practice especially , when considering simulta neous non -serial activity of diverse new programs anticipated for future Lunar and Mars expeditions .
The evaluation and treatment of gastrointestinal disease in children with cystinosis receiving cysteamine.

Abstract Objectives Cysteamine prevents organ damage in children with cystinosis, but may cause gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. In this study we evaluated the nature of GI disease, and the value of omeprazole in controlling GI symptoms in these children. Study design Upper GI disease was evaluated with endoscopy, gastrin levels, and acid secretion studies after oral administration of cysteamine, before and after 16 weeks of therapy with omeprazole. A symptom score was devised. Results Eleven children (mean age, 5.7 years) were studied. After cysteamine ingestion, before and after omeprazole therapy, the mean maximum acid output was significantly higher than the mean basal acid output. The maximum acid output was measured within 60 minutes of cysteamine ingestion and was reduced by omeprazole therapy ( P P P Conclusions GI symptoms in children with cystinosis receiving cysteamine are often acid-mediated and improve with omeprazole. Cystine crystals were detected in the GI tract and may signify inadequate treatment with cysteamine.
Induction and Mentoring: Levels of Student Teacher Understanding.

The purpose of this study was to explore perspectives held by student teachers about induction and mentoring programs and how teacher education programs could contribute to a broader continuum of supports that span from preservice to in-service teaching. Using survey research, this mixed-method study sought to understand what student teachers from three state universities (N = 310) knew about induction and mentoring. To answer the four research questions, quantitative data from the surveys were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi squared, whereas the open-ended items were analyzed using grounded theory methodology. Findings indicated that student teachers have limited comfort with and awareness of induction programming, including new teacher supports. Levels of understanding utilizing a new induction continuum theory are described: limited, basic, emerging, and knowledgeable.
Differential effect of pp120 on insulin endocytosis by two variant insulin receptor isoforms.

The insulin receptor is expressed as two variably spliced isoforms that differ by the absence (isoform A) or presence (isoform B) of a 12-amino acid sequence encoded by exon 11 at the carboxy terminus of the α-subunit. Coexpression of the A isoform and pp120, a substrate of the insulin receptor tyrosine kinase, in NIH 3T3 fibroblasts increased receptor A-mediated insulin endocytosis and degradation by two- to threefold compared with cells expressing receptors alone. Because B is the predominant isoform in the liver and binds insulin with lower affinity than A, we have examined the effect of pp120 on receptor B-mediated endocytosis. In contrast to isoform A, the effect of pp120 on isoform B-mediated insulin internalization and degradation in stably transfected NIH 3T3 cells was minimal.
Saccular potentials of the vocal plainfin midshipman fish, Porichthys notatus

The plainfin midshipman fish, Porichthys notatus, is a vocal species of teleost fish that generates acoustic signals for intraspecific communication during social and reproductive behaviors. All adult morphs (females and males) produce single short duration grunts important for agonistic encounters, but only nesting males produce trains of grunts and growls in agonistic contexts and long duration multiharmonic advertisement calls to attract gravid females for spawning. The midshipman fish uses the saccule as the main acoustic endorgan for hearing to detect and locate vocalizing conspecifics. Here, I examined the response properties of evoked potentials from the midshipman saccule to determine the frequency response and auditory threshold sensitivity of saccular hair cells to behaviorally-relevant single tone stimuli. Saccular potentials were recorded from the rostral, medial and caudal regions of the saccule while sound was presented by an underwater speaker. Saccular potentials of the midshipman, like other teleosts, were evoked greatest at a frequency that was twice the stimulus frequency. Results indicate that midshipman saccular hair cells of non-reproductive adults had a peak frequency sensitivity that ranged from 75 (lowest frequency tested) to 145 Hz and were best suited to detect the low frequency components (≤105 Hz) of midshipman vocalizations.
X-ray diagnostics for an MTF initial target plasma

Summary form only given. Theoretical and experimental investigations are in progress at the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) in developing a suitable initial plasma for magnetized target fusion (MTF). Current investigation involves the production of a plasma using a z-directed current of 1-2 MA through either a gas fill or a 200 mm diameter frozen gas fiber along the axis. The resulting plasma is supported by a 2 cm radius by 2 cm high metallic wall. During the formation, the plasma is expected to have temperatures ranging from 50 eV to in excess of 500 eV, and densities in the neighborhood of 10/sup 18/cm/sup -3/. As a component of a diverse range of diagnostics fielded or to be fielded on the experiments, the X-ray emissions from the plasma are being characterized to provide temperature information about the plasma, using a multi-channel soft X-ray absorption/scattering spectrometer. The X-ray emissions are first passed through a set of filters and the resultant filtered X-rays are detected by an array of X-ray sensitive silicon diodes. The paper will present the conceptual design studies leading to the selection of the filters, and the analytical techniques for deconvoluting the X-ray data. The design studies involve the simulation of the diode response to X-ray emissions from hypothetical temperature and density profiles in the plasma, and also sensitivity studies on the capability of the spectrometer to resolve the emissions from possible impurities, Preliminary indications of the temperature obtained in plasmas formed in experiments using gas fill will also be presented.
Microstructural evolution in adiabatic shear bands in Ta and Ta–W alloys

Abstract Microstructural evolution of adiabatic shear bands originated due to high strain, high strain rate deformation in Ta and Ta–W alloys has been examined. Tests were performed using a specially designed stepped specimen in a Hopkinson bar. Upon completion of the deformation, the region is cooled to below one half of the temperature achieved during adiabatic heating in less than one millisecond. Microstructural characterization of the shear bands was performed using optical microscopy as well as scanning and transmission electron microscopy. No evidence of recrystallization within the shear bands could be found. This is in contradiction with several recent reports, which claim that recrystallization may take place at these stringent time and temperature conditions. These studies, however, do not take into account the kinetics of boundary refinement processes, which are a distinctive characteristic of a recrystallized microstructure. It will be shown that the absence of recrystallization in Ta and Ta–W adiabatic shear bands can be predicted by a progressive subgrain misorientation (PriSM) recrystallization model, applied successfully in previous studies to predict the microstructure evolution in copper adiabatic shear bands.
Carboxylation as an Initial Reaction in the Anaerobic Metabolism of Naphthalene and Phenanthrene by Sulfidogenic Consortia

The anaerobic biodegradation of naphthalene (NAP) and phenanthrene (PHE) was investigated by using sediment collected from the Arthur Kill in New York/New Jersey harbor. The initial cultures were composed of 10% sediment and 90% mineral medium containing 20 mM sulfate. Complete loss of NAP and PHE (150 to 200 muM) was observed after 150 days of incubation. Upon refeeding, NAP and PHE were utilized within 14 days. The utilization of both compounds was inhibited in the presence of 20 mM molybdate. [14C]NAP and [14C]PHE were mineralized to 14CO2. The activities could be maintained and propagated by subculturing in mineral medium. In the presence of halogenated analogs, 2-naphthoate was detected in NAP-utilizing enrichments. The mass spectrum of the derivatized 2-napththoate from the enrichment supplemented with both [13C]bicarbonate and NAP indicates the incorporation of 13CO2 into NAP. In the PHE-utilizing enrichment, a metabolite was detected by both high-pressure liquid chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analyses. The molecular ion and fragmentation pattern of its mass spectrum indicate that it was phenanthrenecarboxylic acid. The results obtained with [13C] bicarbonate indicate that 13CO2 was incorporated into PHE. It appears, therefore, that carboxylation is an initial key reaction for the anaerobic metabolism and NAP and PHE. To our knowledge, this is the first report providing evidence for intermediates of PAH degradation under anaerobic conditions.
Transport mechanism in borophosphosilicate glass passivation

Small and clever circuit designs are introducing challenging issues to the silicon processing industries. Interconnect performance and reliability depend upon their protection against ionic mobility through the device interlayer passivation. This passivation is accomplished by the chemical vapor deposition of the constituents of phosphosilicate glass (PSG), which is then smoothened by high temperature viscous flow. However, the low temperature softening and viscous flow of borophosphosilicate glass (BPSG) compared to phosphosilicate, along with its good step coverage, have gained popularity. The ionic mobility in this passivation can cause a serious leakage and result in a yield loss. In this glass, the boron-to-phosphorous ratio is very critical for the adsorption/absorption of sodium from the surrounding solvent. This study describes the reaction of sodium at the solid/liquid interface and its transfer into the passivation surface.
The Ever Widening Gyre: Factors Affecting Change in Adult Education Graduate Programs in the United States

The purpose of this study was to develop an understanding of recent changes that have occurred in the size of adult education graduate programs. Three factors (program integration, responsiveness to change, and leadership) that contributed to changes in the number of students and faculty in graduate programs were identified and measured through a mixed-method study incorporating both qualitative interview and survey data analyses. The findings indicate that program integration has a significant effect on change in student enrollment, whereas program integration, innovation, and leadership together significantly predict variance in faculty growth. Implications for adult education graduate programs and directions for further research are discussed.
Public Anthropology as Public Pedagogy: An Autobiographical Account

This autobiographical account provides a historical map of landmarks in the author's personal and professional life that led him to his present understanding of public anthropology as public pedagogy and vice versa. He indicates that his experiences led him to study sociocultural anthropology to investigate learning from experience, a foundational method in anthropology that this discipline describes as participant observation. While not completely rejecting participant observation, he asserts that objective and value-free anthropology is not viable, and hence an activist approach may not only support research agendas but also support the needs of the people and communities under study. He explains some of the issues that are related to making this approach work and the ethical elements involved in an approach that is mutually advantageous. As an anthropologist, he became more involved in the political engagement of the people who were the subjects of his investigation. His position is that at this time i...
A brief history and revision of the systematics of the cladid crinoid Sinocrinus

Abstract The erisocrinid Sinocrinus differs from other erisocrinid genera (Erisocrinus and Exaetocrinus) by possessing a rounded, bowl-shaped cup, bearing tumid cup plates with impressed sutures. Sinocrinus Tien, 1926 is refined using Principal Component Analysis and neighborhood cluster analysis. The genotype of Sinocrinus, S. microgranulosus Tien, 1926 , is a junior subjective synonym of S. granulatus ( Wanner, 1924 ). Sinocrinus [Erisocrinus] stefaninii ( Yakovlev, 1934 ) is a junior synonym of Sinocrinus lichengensis Tien, 1926 and S. asymmetricus Strimple and Watkins, 1969 is the junior synonym of S. sheareri Strimple and Watkins, 1969 . Other valid species include: S. [Erisocrinus] cernuus ( Trautschold, 1867 ); S. [Erisocrinus] obliquus ( Wanner, 1916 ); S. houkouensis Tien, 1926 ; S. nodosus Tien, 1926 ; S. [Erisocrinus] stefaninii ( Yakovlev, 1934 ). Because of its refined inclusiveness, the temporal span of the genus now extends from the Late Carboniferous (Moscovian) through the early Permian (Sakmarion). This study also widens the current geographic range of Sinocrinus, with specimens collected across a wider span of Eurasia.
A Critical Assessment of Information Systems Action Research

The debate between rigor and relevance in information systems research has motivated methodological pluralism in the information systems field. In the recent years IS researchers have applied various methodologies; one such method that is gaining prominence is action research. As qualitative method that emphasis collaboration between researchers and practitioners’ action research has been applied to study IS in various organizational settings. In this chapter we address the issues associated with action research. In doing this we develop a set of criteria to assess the quality of information systems action research. We then provide recommendations to improve both the incidence and the quality of action research in the field.
Psychological Processes Induced by Illness, Injury, and Loss

Most serious life events involve actual or potential losses: of a loved one, of material possessions, of health, or of hopes for the future. The ideal adjustment to loss is to accept it, replace that which is lost, and go on living. Between the first pangs of recognition of loss and adaptation to circumstances as they must be, there is an important, painful interval characterized by states of both intrusion and denial.
Inactivation of surface-adherent Listeria monocytogenes hypochlorite and heat

Inactivation by hypochlorite of Listeria monocytogenes cells adherent to stainless steel was determined. Adherent cell populations were prepared by incubating stainless steel slides with a 24 h culture of L. monocytogenes for 4 h at 21°C. Adherent microcolonies were prepared by growing L. monocytogenes on stainless steel slides submerged in a 1:15 dilution of tryptic soy broth at 21°C. The slides were then rinsed and transferred to fresh sterile broth every 2 d with a total incubation time of 8 d. Although the 4 h and 8 d adherent populations were at similar levels, 8 d adherent cells were over 100 times more resistant than the 4 h adherent cell population when exposed to 200 ppm hypochlorite for 30 s. When stainless steel slides containing adherent cells were heated at 72°C both adherent cell populations were inactivated after 1 min. Detectable numbers of L. monocytogenes remained on stainless steel slides after treatment at 65°C for 3 min when adherent 8 d cells were tested but not when adherent 4 h cells were used.
Validation of an Interaction Model of Health Behavior Among Adults With Hypertension

The purpose of this study was to test the Interaction Model of Client Health Behavior among adults with hypertension. The predictive associations among health literacy, quality of the provider interaction, perceived communication skills, and behavioral activation on blood pressure control were examined. Participants were 109 adults with hypertension recruited from community settings. A path analysis using maximum likelihood estimation was conducted in Analysis of Moment Structures for Windows (AMOS). The model fit to these data was excellent (χ(2) = 1.1, p = .76, Tucker-Lewis index [TLI] = 1.1, comparative fit index [CFI] = 1.0, root mean square error of approximation [RMSEA] = .00, standardized root mean residual [SRMR] = .03). As hypothesized, health literacy, quality of the provider interaction, and perceived communication skills directly affected behavioral action. The quality of the provider interaction, perceived communication skills, and behavioral activation had direct effects on systolic blood pressure control. The study results support health literacy screening and communication skill building, and improving the quality of provider interactions to enhance blood pressure control among adults with hypertension.
Heat Capacity and Thermodynamic Properties of Beryllium 1:3-Aluminate, BeO · 3Al2O3, from 15 to 390 °K.

The heat capacity of beryllium 1:3-aluminate, BeO · 3Al2O3, was determined from 15 to 380 °K and the thermodynamic properties calculated from 0 to 390 °K. The entropy at 298.15 °K was found to be 175.55 J deg-1 mol-1 (41.96 cal deg-1 mol-1).
Revenue volatility in New York state school districts: Challenges and responses

This chapter examines revenue volatility across New York State school districts between 1997 and 2010. We find that both the property tax base and state aid have considerable volatility, with average deviations from trend above 7 %. However, deviations from trend in the property tax base and state aid are not strongly correlated, which lessens the overall amount of revenue volatility districts need to address. A preliminary analysis of how school districts in New York have responded to revenue volatility suggests that districts work to smooth growth in the property tax levy and deal with volatility in the property tax base primarily by adjusting effective property tax rates. Fluctuations in state aid, in contrast, are addressed through changes in fund balances and expenditures, and during the period examined, New York school districts relied much more heavily on changes in expenditures than changes in fund balances.
Simulation Research on Dynamic Heat Dispersion of Lip Seal

The high working temperature of lip seal caused by friction can result in invalidation of lip seal because of the material damage.Researching the principle of heat dispersion of lip seal helps to choose parameters properly.But now the principle has not been understood clearly because the process relates to the knowledge of different subjects.To optimize lip seal's frame about heat dispersion,aiming at the invalidation of lip seal with high temperature,an axisymmetric two-dimensional model was established to describe the heat dispersion between solid and fluid and calculated with RNG k-e turbulence model by the Fluent software.The results show that with the increase of shaft speed,the temperature increases on rubbing surface gradually.The highest temperature on rubbing surface appears at the center close to air side,while the lowest temperature appears on the endpoint near the engine oil.As a whole,the temperature distribution of air is higher than that of engine oil.The heat generated between lip seal and shaft is dissipated by engine oil and shaft mostly.Heat dissipation by air can be neglected.The experiment proves that the researching results help to choose designing parameters properly.
Stepwise Discriminant Analysis on Epidemic Intensity of Bacillary Dysentery and Meteorological Factors in Hunan Province from 1987 to 2006

Objective To find out the correlation between the epidemic intensity of bacillary dysentery and some meteorological factors. Methods Stepwise discriminant analysis was used to establish a mathematical model with the incidences of bacillary dysentery,monthly average air temperature,monthly precipitation,and monthly sunshine hours of 14 major cities in Hunan during the period of 1987～2006. Result The precision of the model was 81.7% by inverse calculation. Conclusions The epidemic intensity of bacillary dysentery has a correlation with the average temperature of January,March,April;monthly precipitation of April,September,November and monthly sunshine hours of January,August,September and December in Hunan.
Reuse: a Cultural Change

The introduction of Software Reuse in a company is not just a matter of technological change, but of cultural and structural change. In fact, software development is not the only process affected by Reuse. Many other aspects of the life of a company have to be redefined to really take advantage of that discipline. Introduction of Software Reuse in a company is not a painless process. In fact, it requires significant changes to people evaluation, project planning, resource allocation. It may affect social relationships, productivity, quality, the company structure itself. For those reasons, most hindrances to such a re-engineering of a company are social and psychological.
Effect of elongational flow on immiscible polymer blend/nanoparticle composites: a molecular dynamics study.

Using coarse-grained nonequilibrium molecular dynamics, the dynamics of a blend of the equal ratio of immiscible polymers mixed with nanoparticles (NP) are simulated. The simulations are conducted under planar elongational flow, which affects the dispersion of the NPs and the self-assembly morphology. The goal of this study is to investigate the effect of planar elongational flow on the nanocomposite blend system as well as to thoroughly compare the blend to an analogous symmetric block copolymer (BCP) system to understand the role of the polymer structure on the morphology and NP dispersion. Two types of spherical NPs are considered: (1) selective NPs that are attracted to one of the polymer components and (2) nonselective NPs that are neutral to both components. A comparison of the blend and BCP systems reveals that for selective NP, the blend system shows a much broader NP distribution in the selective phase than the BCP phase. This is due to a more uniform distribution of polymer chain ends throughout the selective phase in the blend system than the BCP system. For nonselective NP, the blend and BCP systems show similar results for low elongation rates, but the NP peak in the BCP system broadens as elongation rates approach the order–disorder transition. In addition, the presence of NP is found to affect the morphology transitions of both the blend and BCP systems, depending on the NP type.
Finance as a Pattern of Timeless Moments

Quantitative finance traces its roots to modern portfolio theory. Despite the deficiencies of modern portfolio theory, mean-variance optimization nevertheless continues to form the basis for contemporary finance. The term postmodern portfolio theory captures many of the advances in financial learning since the original articulation of modern portfolio theory. A comprehensive approach to financial risk management must address all aspects of portfolio theory, from the beautiful symmetries of modern portfolio theory to the disturbing behavioral insights and the vastly expanded mathematical arsenal of the postmodern critique.
Challenges in the Assembly of Large Die, High Bump Density Pb-Free Flip Chip Packages

It is well established that Sn/Pb flip chip bumps tend to solder more readily than the lead free Sn/Ag bumps. Underfill process is also well understood. For a large die, typically greater than 20 mm per side, with Pb-free bumps, the wetting and spreading appears to become less effective. Due to the higher reflow temperature requirement, a Pb-free compatible no clean flux is needed. Poor compatibility between the flux residue and the underfill can lead to the formation of voids, a potential reliability concern. These new fluxes are formulated to work well with most underfill chemistries. While this is generally the case for small die size applications, these new fluxes do not always work well with large dies and high bump count. Balancing the flux effectiveness in soldering and in achieving compatibility with the underfill is one of the most difficult challenges in getting a manufacturable Pb-free process on large dies. As next generation flip chip products move into tighter bump pitch and higher bump count, the process margin challenge will remain, if not increase. The process window for the rosin and the synthetic-based fluxes typically used in Sn/Pb application is much wider than the Pb-free fluxes. For Pb-free, soldering performance is sensitive to flux thickness, reflow profile, substrate pad surface finish/topography and substrate shrinkage. Underfill flow performance varies considerably with bump layout, density and aspect ratio. Because of the increased ratio of flux residue to underfill volume on high density bump designs, the underfill cure step is also becoming a major factor in the system. This paper gives a detailed description of the challenges encountered during assembly, such as the need for flux and underfill compatibility, flux selection process, underfill flow studies, flux height study, effect of dispense pattern, and the effect of underfill curing.
A Naturalistic Investigation of Media Multitasking While Studying and the Effects on Exam Performance.

The present study investigated the use of multiple digital media technologies, including social networking platforms, by students while preparing for an examination (media multitasking) and the sub...
Imaging Regulatory Lipids and Protein Kinase C at Sites of Exocytosis

The control of exocytosis is physiologically essential. In vitro SNARE proteins are sufficient to drive model membrane fusion, but in cells there are over twenty additional proteins and lipids that work together to drive efficient, fast, and timely release of vesicular cargo. Many of these important accessory proteins are controlled via phosphorylation, and protein kinase C (PKC) has previously been linked to the modulation of exocytosis. We use total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy to observe the spatiotemporal dynamics of dozens of proteins and lipids relative to single sites of exocytosis in living endocrine INS-1 cells. INS-1 cells are a model system for insulin secretion. We use a vesicle cargo marker NPY-GFP to identify where exocytosis occurs and tag proteins-of-interest with a red fluorescent protein. Lipid species are visualized using lipid sensors: fluorescent proteins fused to protein domains with known specificity for single lipids. After stimulating exocytosis using ionomycin, we observe a transient accumulation of PIP2- and DAG-sensors at exocytic sites centered on the time of membrane fusion and only lasting a few seconds. Intriguingly, we observe a concomitant recruitment of conventional PKC isoforms with kinetics broadly similar to PIP2 and DAG. Novel and atypical PKCs do not appear to be recruited. PIP2, DAG, and PKC recruitment only occur at sites of exocytosis and not at control docked-vesicles nearby to sites of exocytosis. PKC is known to target several critical exocytic proteins, including munc18 and dynamin-1, and we are currently investigating whether these targets are phosphorylated in response to the recruitment of PKC that we observe. These data suggest that a regulatory lipid cascade may recruit and activate PKC to sites of exocytosis to regulate membrane fusion or cargo release.
Epidemiology of Elder Self-neglect

Self-neglect (SN) is the single most common allegation reported to Adult Protective Service Agencies nationwide. SN extends beyond simple clutter to frank squalor associated with severe impairment in activities of daily living. Risk factors include age, lack of social support, poverty, and isolation. Associated diseases include many common disorders of old age including dementia, depression, and other psychiatric disorders. Self-neglectors lack mental capacity and lack memory and/or the executive capacity to live safely in their environment. SN is a risk factor for hospitalization and death. There are distinct phenotypes of SN: neglect of personal hygiene, lack of health maintenance, and environmental neglect. There is a SN severity scale currently used in research; generally the most severe cases are reported to Adult Protective Service agencies. Hoarding that impacts quality of life is a form of SN. SN is a life-threatening condition that is an independent risk factor for hospitalizations and death. Other outcomes include functional decline, malnutrition, increased hospital readmission, and nursing home placement. A biopsychosocial path model was developed in 2007 and substantiated by subsequent studies.
Looking beyond rewards: The problem and promise of intrinsic motivation

Publisher Summary Psychologists have probed the reason for human behavior and actions since time immemorial. From early on, the field focused on two primary types of explanations for behavior: basic biological needs or drives connected to survival and procreation (for example, hunger, thirst, sex) and extrinsic rewards or punishments. Both types of explanations suggest that behavior is motivated by the need or desire to achieve particular outcomes (for example, restoring a tissue deficit to equilibrium, acquiring a reward, or avoiding punishment). Motivation thus energizes and guides behavior toward reaching a particular goal. The chapter presents a conceptual shift to thinking about the effects of “extrinsic” factors in the context of individuals' goals. The chapter also discusses the implications of this redefinition for the interpretation of the classic findings and presents new data based on this redefinition. Finally, it reviews a research illustrating the critical role that task value plays in activity choices, and illustrates how interest in an activity is one source of value that combines with more “extrinsic” sources. Under this, it traces how interest and other sources of values reflect socialization processes, which may help to explain systematic gender, ethnic, and cultural differences in motivation.
Emerging roles of transcriptional enhancers in chromatin looping and promoter-proximal pausing of RNA polymerase II

Initiation and regulation of transcription by RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) in eukaryotes rely on the transcriptional regulatory elements. Promoters and enhancers share similar architectures and functions, and the prevailing view is that they can initiate bidirectional transcription. We summarize functional roles of enhancer transcription and possible mechanisms in enhancer–promoter communication. We discuss the potential roles of enhancer RNAs (eRNAs) in early elongation and highlight that transcriptional enhancers might modulate the release of paused RNAPII via 3D chromatin looping. Emerging evidence suggests that transcriptional enhancers regulate the promoter-proximal pausing of RNAPII, a key rate-limiting step required for productive elongation.
Are the main grades of brains different principally in numbers of connections or also in quality

From left to right, no and yes. The premise is underlined that grades of complexity of brain and consequent behavior have evolved over an extremely wide span, if we compare major taxa from jellyfish to cuttlefish — not linearly, steadily or invariably and not necessarily correlated with survival value or improved adaptation. This relatively rare form of evolution, unequivocal only between some phyla, some classes and some orders, can be called vertical gradation and should be distinguished from lateral radiation that leads to species, genera and many families, dominated by adaptive specialization to a particular habit of life. More complex brains may have quantitatively more connections but are principally recognized by qualitatively different components. They can logically be called more advanced or “better” in this dimension, without implication of moral value or improved adaptation. Complexity is usefully measured by the number of kinds of components of structure, function and behavior, a usage quite distinct from a common application to highly specific or amazing achievements.
Deformation of volcanic materials by pore pressurization: analog experiments with simplified geometry

The pressurization of pore fluids plays a significant role in deforming volcanic materials; however, understanding of this process remains incomplete, especially scenarios accompanying phreatic eruptions. Analog experiments presented here use a simple geometry to study the mechanics of this type of deformation. Syrup was injected into the base of a sand medium, simulating the permeable flow of fluids through shallow volcanic systems. The experiments examined surface deformation over many source depths and pressures. Surface deformation was recorded using a Microsoft® Kinect™ sensor, generating high-spatiotemporal resolution lab-scale digital elevation models (DEMs). The behavior of the system is controlled by the ratio of pore pressure to lithostatic loading $(\lambda =p/\rho g D)$ . For $\lambda <10$ , deformation was accommodated by high-angle, reversed-mechanism shearing along which fluid preferentially flowed, leading to a continuous feedback between deformation and pressurization wherein higher pressure ratios yielded larger deformations. For $\lambda >10$ , fluid expulsion from the layer was much faster, vertically fracturing to the surface with larger pressure ratios yielding less deformation. The temporal behavior of deformation followed a characteristic evolution that produced an approximately exponential increase in deformation with time until complete layer penetration. This process is distinguished from magmatic sources in continuous geodetic data by its rapidity and characteristic time evolution. The time evolution of the experiments compares well with tilt records from Mt. Ontake, Japan, in the lead-up to the deadly 2014 phreatic eruption. Improved understanding of this process may guide the evolution of magmatic intrusions such as dikes, cone sheets, and cryptodomes and contribute to caldera resurgence or deformation that destabilizes volcanic flanks.
Structure versus time in the evolutionary diversification of avian carotenoid metabolic networks

Historical associations of genes and proteins are thought to delineate pathways available to subsequent evolution; however, the effects of past functional involvements on contemporary evolution are rarely quantified. Here, we examined the extent to which the structure of a carotenoid enzymatic network persists in avian evolution. Specifically, we tested whether the evolution of carotenoid networks was most concordant with phylogenetically structured expansion from core reactions of common ancestors or with subsampling of biochemical pathway modules from an ancestral network. We compared structural and historical associations in 467 carotenoid networks of extant and ancestral species and uncovered the overwhelming effect of pre-existing metabolic network structure on carotenoid diversification over the last 50 million years of avian evolution. Over evolutionary time, birds repeatedly subsampled and recombined conserved biochemical modules, which likely maintained the overall structure of the carotenoid metabolic network during avian evolution. These findings explain the recurrent convergence of evolutionary distant species in carotenoid metabolism and weak phylogenetic signal in avian carotenoid evolution. Remarkable retention of an ancient metabolic structure throughout extensive and prolonged ecological diversification in avian carotenoid metabolism illustrates a fundamental requirement of organismal evolution - historical continuity of a deterministic network that links past and present functional associations of its components.
Annals Graphic Medicine - Is This What Depression Looks Like?

The author/artist imagines what depression looks like inside himself and wonders, "Is this the black dog of depression I've read about?"
A 12mW 70-to-100GHz mixer-first receiver front-end for mm-wave massive-MIMO arrays in 28nm CMOS

Multi-user multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems are promising enablers for high-capacity wireless access in next-generation mobile networks. Leveraging antenna arrays at the access point, narrow beams can be steered to different users simultaneously, enhancing spectral efficiency through spatial multiplexing. By employing a number of array elements, M, much larger than the number of users, K, (i.e. massive MIMO), simple linear beamforming algorithms can achieve nearly optimal operation [1]. Operating massive MIMO systems at mm-waves results in compact antenna arrays and wide channel bandwidths. Within the available spectrum, the E-Band communication bandwidth (71 to 76GHz, 81 to 86GHz, and 92 to 95GHz) has recently gained attention for both access and wireless backhaul, due to low oxygen attenuation.
Museums and Revisionism: Franz Philipp Memorial Lecture, Powerhouse Museum, Sydney, 26 August 1988

(1988). Museums and Revisionism. Australian Journal of Art: Vol. 7, Museums and other matters, pp. 4-15.
Multivariate Time Series Modeling

Time series models have been applied to many environmental and geohydrological problems. In many instances, such models may be required to provide the most accurate forecasts possible. Before proceeding, a short review of methods will be given.
The Beholder’s Eyes: Audience Reactions to Organizational Self-claims of Authenticity:

Organizations normally benefit from being perceived as authentic. Yet an ongoing puzzle persists about self-claims of authenticity: although the weight of findings suggests that individuals will de...
Effect of bite distance of an epitendinous suture from the repair site on the tensile strength of canine tendon constructs

OBJECTIVE To evaluate effects of bite distance of an interlocking horizontal mattress epitendinous suture (IHMES) from the repair site on tensile strength of canine tendon repairs. SAMPLE 72 canine...
The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act Jurisprudence of Shira Scheindlin

The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) is a top priority federal statute of significant importance to all businesses and individuals engaged in international commerce. Yet, despite its significance, few FCPA enforcement actions are subjected to judicial scrutiny and most federal court judges go their entire career without an FCPA case being placed on their docket. However, recently retired judge for the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York Shira Scheindlin is an exception and during her time on the bench she refereed more disputed FCPA issues than any other federal judge in FCPA history. Judge Scheindlin’s written FCPA decisions spanned both criminal and civil enforcement actions and touched upon topics ranging from prima facie FCPA elements, an FCPA affirmative defense, jurisdiction over foreign nationals, as well as related legal issues such as statute of limitations. Moreover, Judge Scheindlin interpreted the FCPA and related issues across the full spectrum of a contested proceeding from motions to dismiss, to motions in limine in advance of trial, to post-trial motions, and to sentencing a criminal defendant. This Article analyzes the FCPA jurisprudence of Judge Scheindlin and provides rare insight — including through exclusive questioning of Judge Scheindlin — into the mind of the FCPA’s most prominent jurist. The Article proceeds in four parts: Part I provides context for Judge Scheindlin’s spot-on observation that there are “surprisingly few decisions throughout the country on the FCPA”; Part II briefly highlights Judge Scheindlin’s background and overall judicial career; Part III dissects Judge Scheindlin’s many FCPA decisions; and Part IV extracts common themes from Judge Scheindlin’s FCPA jurisprudence and concludes that Judge Scheindlin’s views on the FCPA — a statute she frequently found ambiguous — were undeniably nuanced. The jurisprudence of the FCPA’s most prominent jurist matters against the backdrop of some who insist that the FCPA is a clear statute and who view FCPA issues as black and white.
Prevalence and electrophysiological phenotype of rare SCN5A genetic variants identified in unexplained sudden cardiac arrest survivors.

AIMS To determine the prevalence and in vitro electrophysiological (EP) phenotype of ultra-rare SCN5A variants of uncertain significance (VUS) identified in unexplained sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) survivors. METHODS AND RESULTS Retrospective review of 73 unexplained SCA survivors was used to identify all patients that underwent a form of genetic testing that included comprehensive SCN5A analysis. Ultra-rare SCN5A variants (minor allele frequency < 0.005) were adjudicated according to the 2015 American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) guidelines. Variants designated as VUS were expressed heterologously and characterized using the whole-cell patch clamp technique. Overall, 60/73 (82%; the average age at SCA 28 ± 12 years) unexplained SCA survivors had received SCN5A genetic testing. Of these, 5/60 (8.3%) had an ultra-rare SCN5A variant. All SCN5A variants were classified as VUS. Whereas the single SCN5A VUS (p.Asp872Asn-SCN5A) identified in an unexplained SCA survivor with PR interval prolongation and inferior early repolarization conferred a loss-of-function phenotype (46.2% reduction in peak current density; 16 ms slower recovery from inactivation), the four other SCN5A VUS (p.Glu30Gly-SCN5A, p.Gln245Lys-SCN5A, p.Pro648Leu-SCN5A, and p.Glu1240Gln-SCN5A) identified in unexplained SCA survivors without early repolarization/conduction delay were indistinguishable from wild-type Nav1.5 channels. CONCLUSION In the absence of a phenotype(s) potentially attributable to sodium channel dysfunction, all SCN5A VUS identified in unexplained SCA survivors conferred a wild-type EP phenotype in vitro. As the background rate of SCN5A genetic variation is not trivial, great care must be taken to avoid prioritizing genotype over phenotype when attempting to ascertain the root cause of an individual's SCA.
Prefatory study of the effects of exploration dynamics on stiffness perception

The utility of telerobotic systems is driven in large part by the quality of feedback they provide to the operator. While the dynamic interaction between a robot and the environment can often be sensed or modeled, the dynamic coupling at the human-robot interface is often overlooked. Improving dexterous manipulation through telerobots will require careful consideration of human haptic perception as it relates to human exploration dynamics at the telerobotic interface. In this manuscript, we use exploration velocity as a means of controlling the operator’s exploration dynamics, and present results from two stiffness discrimination experiments designed to investigate the effects of exploration velocity on stiffness perception. The results indicate that stiffness percepts vary differently for different exploration velocities on an individual level, however, no consistent trends were found across all participants. These results suggest that exploration dynamics can affect the quality of haptic interactions through telerobotic interfaces, and also reflect the need to study the underlying mechanisms that cause our perception to vary with our choice of exploration strategy.