cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A model of sexual selection and female use of refuge in a coercive mating system

In many non-monogamous systems, males invest less in progeny than do females. This leaves males with higher potential rates of reproduction, and a likelihood of sexual conflict, including, in some systems, coercive matings. If coercive matings are costly, the best female strategy may be to avoid male interaction. We present a model that demonstrates female movement in response to male harassment as a mechanism to lower the costs associated with male coercion, and the effect that female movement has on selection in males for male harassment. We found that, when females can move from a habitat patch to a refuge to which males do not have access, there may be a selection for either high, or low harassment male phenotype, or both, depending on the relationship between the harassment level of male types in the population and a threshold level of male harassment. This threshold harassment level depends on the relative number of males and females in the population, and the relative resource values of the habitat; the threshold increases as the sex ratio favours females, and decreases with the value of the refuge patch or total population. Our model predicts that selection will favour the harassment level that lies closest to this threshold level of harassment, and differing harassment levels will coexist within the population only if they lie on the opposite sides of the threshold harassment. Our model is consistent with empirical results suggesting that an intermediate harassment level provides maximum reproductive fitness to males when females are mobile.
A Large-Eddy Simulation Study of Anisotropy in Fair-Weather Cumulus Cloud Fields

Causes of anisotropy in fair-weather cumulus cloud fields were investigated using quantitative measures of anisotropy and a large-eddy simulation (LES) model. Case six of the Global Energy and Water Cycle Experiment (GEWEX) Cloud System Study Working Group 1 was used as the standard model scenario. This case represents radiatively forced development of cumulus clouds over the southern Great Plains. Cloud formation under a variety of environmental conditions was simulated and the degree of anisotropy in the output fields was calculated as a function of spatial scale. Wind shear was found to be the single greatest factor in the development of both vertically tilted and horizontally stretched cloud structures. Other factors included mean wind speed, initial water vapor mixing ratio, and the magnitude of the surface forcing.
On the determination of input sound frequencies by the auditory central processor

The author discusses a flaw in an auditory central processor theory which states that the action potential (AP) output of neurons associated with hair cells is partially synchronized to the incoming f/sub in/ or its subharmonics. The main objection to this proposal is that synchronization seems to fail for high-frequency audio inputs. It is shown that this failure may be due to experimental difficulties. It is impossible to avoid trauma to the cochlea and/or auditory nerve. To study synchronization at 10,000 Hz, the interspike-interval (LSI) histogram requires a timing accuracy of 4 mu s or better despite input APs that have a risetime of 200 mu s. Synthetic AP interspike-interval histograms are derived for unstimulated, fully synchronized, low-frequency, and high-frequency audio input conditions. The latter are compared with typical experimentally derived data. Hypothetical processing by reverberatory neurons is considered. >
Structural basis for corepressor assembly by the orphan nuclear receptor TLX

The orphan nuclear receptor TLX regulates neural stem cell self-renewal in the adult brain and functions primarily as a transcription repressor through recruitment of Atrophin corepressors, which bind to TLX via a conserved peptide motif termed the Atro box. Here we report crystal structures of the human and insect TLX ligand-binding domain in complex with Atro box peptides. In these structures, TLX adopts an autorepressed conformation in which its helix H12 occupies the coactivator-binding groove. Unexpectedly, H12 in this autorepressed conformation forms a novel binding pocket with residues from helix H3 that accommodates a short helix formed by the conserved ALXXLXXY motif of the Atro box. Mutations that weaken the TLX–Atrophin interaction compromise the repressive activity of TLX, demonstrating that this interaction is required for Atrophin to confer repressor activity to TLX. Moreover, the autorepressed conformation is conserved in the repressor class of orphan nuclear receptors, and mutations of corresponding residues in other members of this class of receptors diminish their repressor activities. Together, our results establish the functional conservation of the autorepressed conformation and define a key sequence motif in the Atro box that is essential for TLX-mediated repression.
Barabbas, the Scapegoat Ritual, and the Development of the Passion Narrative

The story of Barabbas's release by Pilate appears in all four canonical gospels (Mark 15:6–15; Matt 27:15–26; Luke 23:18–25; John 18:39–40). Although the accounts differ in some details, a fairly consistent plot line emerges: The crowd before Pilate, allowed to choose one prisoner for release, demands the release of Barabbas and the crucifixion of Jesus. There are, however, a number of puzzling aspects to this deceptively simple story, the most significant of which is the contention of the authors that there existed a custom of the governor releasing a prisoner at the Passover festival. According to Mark and Matthew, this was a Roman custom (Mark 15:6; Matt 27:15); according to John, a Jewish custom (John 18:39). Yet, no evidence for such a custom in Judea has been found. Even more tellingly, Luke's omission of such a custom, as well as his statement in Acts 25:16, shows that he thought such a custom unbelievable. This custom is also considered by some to be at odds with the portrait of Pilate gathered from Jewish literature. Roger Aus states the case most strongly: “[Pilate] never would have allowed himself to be subject to the whims of a crowd, especially an uncontrollable one which bordered on a riot.” For these reasons many scholars have concluded that while a Barabbas may have been released by Pilate, the story as we have it in the gospels is a literary creation.
A structured approach for analysis of design processes

The purpose of this paper is to present a methodology for analyzing and improving design processes. The methodology presented uses a directed graph and the corresponding incidence matrix to represent a design process or the relationship between constraints and variables in a design problem. A qualitative analysis approach (critical analysis and concurrency analysis) Is used to analyze the process structure and improve it without considering the time aspect. The analysis explores a process structure as well as enhances concurrency of the design process. The critical analysis determines potential activities that may delay a design project and provides suggestions for improvement of the design process. A process with higher degree of concurrency is obtained and therefore the product development time should be reduced. Two examples from electronics illustrate the approach proposed. >
Analysis of optical ARMA architectures in the slow-light regime

We study pulse propagation in the slow-light regime with positive and negative group delays in auto-regressive moving average (ARMA) filters, including the ring-enhanced Mach-Zehnder interferometer (REMZI) and side-coupled integrated spaced sequence of resonators (SCISSOR) optical architectures. Both architectures are optimized to maximize the delay-bandwidth product for a fixed output pulse-distortion level. In the negative-group-delay regime, absorption is incorporated in the rings. The REMZI architecture has the highest delay-bandwidth product in both the positive and negative-group-delay regimes due to greater efficiency in incorporating filter phase within the passband. We also explore the effects of pulse shape in the lossy regime and the limitations it poses in the amount of pulse advancement that is usable for practical applications.
Drotrecogin alfa (activated) in sepsis: initial experience with patient selection, cost, and clinical outcomes.

During a 1-year period, the authors examined clinical experience with drotrecogin alfa, activated for sepsis in a 24-bed medical-surgical intensive care unit. Drotrecogin alfa, activated was administered 46 times to 44 patients (3% of all intensive care unit admissions). Eighty-six percent of patients were on vasopressors; 95% were mechanically ventilated. Mean Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score was 22.0 at admission and 21.9 during the 24 hours before drug administration. The 28-day all-cause mortality was 36.4% and hospital mortality was 43.2%, trending higher (P= .10) than in the PROWESS study, which can be attributed to clinical use in patients who would not have met PROWESS study inclusion criteria. Failure to complete a 96-hour infusion of drotrecogin alfa, activated and transfer from another hospital or nursing home before treatment were associated with poor outcome. Total cost of hospital care, including mean drotrecogin alfa, activated drug cost of $7312, exceeded reimburseme...
EFFECTS OF GROUPING BEHAVIOR AND PREDATORS ON THE SPATIAL DISTRIBUTION OF A FOREST FLOOR ARTHROPOD

Spatial aggregations arising from social behavior or habitat patchiness are common in nature and have important implications for population dynamics, community stability, and conservation. Distinguishing between these behavioral and environmental causes of pattern is of general interest to spatial ecologists and continues to be a key unresolved issue. Despite the importance of this problem, systematic approaches for resolving the underlying mechanisms are not well developed. We demonstrate here the value of a three-tiered systematic approach involving descriptive spatial sampling, individual-based observation and diffusion modeling, and manipulative field experiments. We used this approach to test social- vs. habitat-driven hypotheses explaining spatial aggregation in the collembolan Orchesella hexfasciata. Our results show that aggregation is a gregarious behavior triggered by seasonal increases in soil moisture. Initial field observations suggested that aggregation was habitat driven and associated with soil moisture, but individual-based observations and modeling revealed that moisture was only a triggering mechanism for socially driven aggregation. This was corroborated in field experiments by testing hypotheses that were motivated by the individual-based analyses. Thus, the three-tiered approach led to a more complete understanding of aggregation than would any single technique.
OCAM: A new tool for studying the oligomeric diversity of MscL channels

We have developed a new technique to study the oligomeric state of proteins in solution. OCAM or Oligomer Characterization by Addition of Mass counts protein subunits by selectively shaving a protein mass tag added to a protein subunit via a short peptide linker. Cleavage of each mass tag reduces the total mass of the protein complex by a fixed amount. By performing limited proteolysis and separating the reaction products by size on a blue native PAGE gel, a ladder of reaction products corresponding to the number of subunits can be resolved. The pattern of bands may be used to distinguish the presence of a single homo-oligomer from a mixture of oligomeric states. We have applied OCAM to study the mechanosensitive channel of large conductance (MscL) and find that these proteins can exist in multiple oligomeric states ranging from tetramers up to possible hexamers. Our results demonstrate the existence of oligomeric forms of MscL not yet observed by X-ray crystallography or other techniques and that in some cases a single type of MscL subunit can assemble as a mixture of oligomeric states.
Tracking Shopping Carts Using Mobile Cameras Viewing Ceiling-Mounted Retro-Reflective Bar Codes

"Shopping Buddy" is a wireless multi-media terminal that clips onto a conventional shopping cart that allows customers to scan items as they shop, providing self-checkout at the cart. Cart tracking technology enables delivery of real-time locationbased content, including "you are here" navigation map, coupons and recipes. A new cart tracking technology is developed using a cart-mounted camera viewing ceiling-mounted retro-reflective bar codes. Tag acquisition and decoding is designed to run on an inexpensive microprocessor to meet stringent system cost, size and power constraints. The image is quantized and compressed "on-the-fly" to minimize memory and processing requirements. Field testing in a retail store demonstrates system robustness under a variety of lighting conditions, delivering 5 cm spatial resolution accuracy.
Diagnostic Studies of Two Contrasting Rainfall Episodes in Hawaii: Dry 1981 and Wet 1982

Abstract The circulation features that accompanied the dry January/February of 1981 and the wet January/February of 1982 in Hawaii are compared. The results indicate that surface and upper-air circulation features are very distinct during these two winter months with contrasting rainfall extremes. Four major synoptic patterns (frontal, kona, trade, and ridge) that influence Hawaiian rainfall have been described. The Kona storm pattern contributes to most of the rainfall in wet 1982, followed by the frontal pattern. No kona storm days occurred during dry 1981, and the rainfalls on frontal days in dry 1981 were less than half of those in wet 1982. The trade wind and ridge patterns are not Important for rainfall either in dry 1981 or wet 1982. A possible relationship between the PNA pattern and rainfall anomalies during these two non-ENSO winter months is suggested.
The comparative effects of pregnancy and phrenic nerve interruption on the diaphragm and their relation to pulmonary tuberculosis

Abstract One of the arguments frequently given for the conservation of pregnancy in a tuberculous patient is that the gravid uterus elevates the diaphragm and acts as a splint, thus giving the effect of a phrenic nerve interruption. However, the work of Heynemann, the work of Klaften and Palugyay, and our observations show that the diaphragm on expiration is higher antepartum than postpartum, but on inspiration the diaphragm descends to a level that is more nearly comparable to that of the puerperal state. Therefore, in pregnancy, the diaphragm, instead of being splinted, tends to have a greater excursion on forced respiration than in the nonpregnant state. In contradistinction to this the paralyzed diaphragm ascends on inspiration, and it is only this paralyzed diaphragm that has been shown to be of value in pulmonary tuberculosis. The actively functioning diaphragm, though high in position, has never been demonstrated to be of value in pulmonary tuberculosis. Therefore, the hypothesis that tuberculosis may be benefited by the effect of pregnancy on the diaphragm is not justified.
Control System Synthesis by Root Locus Method

The root locus method determines all of the roots of the differential equation of a control system by a graphical plot which readily permits synthesis for desired transient response or frequency response. The base points for this plot on the complex plane are the zeros and poles of the open loop transfer function, which are readily available. The locus of roots is a plot of the values of a which make this transfer function equal to - 1 as loop gain is increased from zero to infinity. The plot can be established in approximate form by inspection and the significant parts of the locus calculated accurately and quickly by use of a simple device. For multiple loop systems, one solves the innermost loop first, which then permits the next loop to be solved by another root locus plot. The resultant plot gives a complete picture of the system, which is particularly valuable for unusual systems or those which have wide variations in parameters.
Adenosine A1 receptor mediates late preconditioning via activation of PKC-δ signaling pathway

Protein kinase C (PKC) plays a central role in both early and late preconditioning (PC) but its association with inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) is not clear in late PC. This study investiga...
A Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Study of the Binding of Trimethylphosphine Selenide to Cadmium Oleate

We report an NMR study on the binding of trimethylphosphine selenide (Se═PMe3) to cadmium oleate (Cd(OA)2) in CDCl3 and toluene-d8. At room temperature in CDCl3, Se═PMe3 binds to Cd(OA) 2 in 1:1 ratio with a binding constant of 20 ± 3 as determined by NMR titration. The Cd-bound and free Se═PMe3 are in fast exchange on the NMR time scale at room temperature and gives only one 31P NMR peak. At ca. 190 K, three 31P NMR peaks were observed for a toluene-d8 solution of 1:1 mixture of Cd(OA)2 and Se═PMe3. These three peaks were tentatively assigned to free Se═PMe3 (9.0 ppm), 1:1 (19.5 ppm), and 2:1 complex between Se═PMe3 and Cd(OA)2 (18.8 ppm).
Biology of the NMDA Receptor

NMDA Receptors and Brain Development, R.C. Ewald and H.T. Cline NMDA Receptors and Huntington's Disease, H.B. Fernandes and L.A. Raymond NMDA and Dopamine Diverse Mechanisms Applied to Interacting Receptor Systems, C. Cepeda, V.M. Andre, E.L. Jocoy, and M.S. Levine NMDA Receptors and Alcohol Addiction, D. Ron and J. Wang Transcriptional Regulation of NMDAR Expression, G. Bai and P.W. Hoffman NMDARs and Translational Control, C.A. Hoeffer and E. Klann Regulation of NMDARs by Kinases and Phosphatases, M.W. Salter, Y. Dong, L.V. Kalia, X.J. Liu, and G. Pitcher Trafficking and Targeting of NMDARs, R.S. Petralia, R.A. Al-Hallaq, and R.J. Wenthold NMDAR-Mediated Calcium Transients in Dendritic Spines, B.L. Bloodgood and B.L. Sabatini NMDA Receptors in Drosophila, S. Xia and A.-S. Chiang Extracellular Modulation of NMDARs, K. Williams Pharmacology of NMDARs, D.T. Monaghan and D.E Jane Activation Mechanisms of NMDARs, M.L. Blanke and A M.J. VanDongen Presynaptic NMDARs, I.C. Duguid and T.G. Smart
Gouty Diathesis and Sarcoidosis in Patient with Recurrent Calcium Nephrolithiasis

Abstract: We describe a patient who initially formed calcium-containing renal stones owing to gouty diathesis and hypocitraturia. On therapy with 300 mg, allopurinol and 60mEq. potassium citrate daily serum uric acid decreased from 9.2 to 5.8 mg. per dl., urinary pH increased from less than 5.5 to 6.6 and urinary citrate increased from 223 to 1,005 mg. per day. Four months later while still on this medical regimen, the patient presented with hypercalcemia (13.4 mg. per dl.), high serum 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (65 pg. per ml.) and hypercalciuria (598 mg. per day), which subsequently were found to result from sarcoidosis. Prednisone therapy normalized the disturbances in calcium metabolism. During 33 months of combined treatment with 7.5 to 10 mg. prednisone a day, allopurinol and potassium citrate, the patient was free of stones and he had normal urinary calcium, pH and citrate. However, a calcium stone formed 1 month after discontinuation of prednisone therapy, although treatment with allopurinol and pota...
A digital imaging network to facilitate a multi-center clinical trial for adrenoleukodystrophy

Finding a large enough patient population for performing clinical trials, especially for rare diseases, can be difficult. A multi-center clinical trial allows researchers to share information and interpretation of results from multiple institutions. Using a digital network and the Internet facilitates the sharing of acquired information between many locations and becomes key to establishing a successful multi-center clinical trial. A digital magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) network of clinical institutions to evaluate therapy outcomes in a multi-center clinical trial for adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) has been created. The network uses the DICOM 3.0 standard to move MRI images securely over the Internet and Next Generation Internet (NGI) to a secure central clinical database. Virtual private network (VPN) technology is used to protect patient confidentiality and assure data integrity. 15 sites participate in the network; 160 ALD MRI studies have been stored in the clinical database and scored independently by two physicians.
Surgical Management of Operable Breast Cancer After Neoadjuvant Systemic Therapy

The primary goal of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NCT) in operable breast cancer is tumor down-sizing to facilitate breast-conserving surgery (BCS). The use of NCT in early-stage breast cancer in carefully selected patients is increasing. Despite a shift in the treated patient population to patients with earlier-stage tumors, the principles of surgery after NCT remain the same. Monitoring response to therapy is important for surgical planning and prognostic information. Preoperative marking of the tumor is essential for guiding BCS after NCT and should be performed in all patients. Axillary staging can be performed prior to or after NCT, and both methods are associated with specific risks and benefits. Early literature supported the use of pre-NCT sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB), but current literature suggests increased accuracy and decreased use of axillary dissection in patients who undergo SLNB after NCT. A multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer care is essential during NCT for improved outcomes and decreased morbidity.
Shedding Risk with Intracerebral Inoculation of Theiler’s Murine Encephalomyelitis Virus: Informing a Risk Assessment

Theiler’s murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV) is a naturally occurring enteric infection, easily passed from mouse to mouse in communal housing. However, TMEV is often inoculated intracerebrally (IC) to produce a mouse model of multiple sclerosis (MS). It has long been accepted that maintaining colonies of IC-infected mice within laboratory animal facilities poses a risk of spreading infection from mouse to mouse via the fecal-oral route as well as contaminated equipment or personnel. Interestingly, the extent of virus shedding from IC-inoculated mice has not been investigated, although several publications have remarked on the lack of virus in the peripheral body of this MS mouse model. Viral shedding, thus infectivity, would require that TMEV escape the central nervous system (CNS) and be found in bodily secretions. We hypothesized that if the virus can escape the CNS, it would be found circulating within blood or other secretions postinjection (PI), after the blood-brain barrier has been experimental...
Relevance of Uterine Subseptations: What Length Should Warrant Hysteroscopic Resection?

Objectives Existing recommendations warrant correction of uterine subseptations longer than 10 mm. We assessed whether a different subseptation length is indicated for intervention by evaluating the postoperative decrease in cavity width. Methods We conducted a prospective controlled cohort study at a university center. Healthy women and women with subseptations were evaluated with three-dimensional ultrasound before and after undergoing surgical resection of uterine subseptations by hysteroscopy. Measurement of the subseptum's length and width, and total cavity width, were obtained in both groups of women. We created a receiver operating characteristic curve using 7-mm cavity postoperative width change as the reference variable, and subseptation length as the outcome variable. Identifying a new subseptation length that warrants surgical intervention. Results Seventy-six women with subseptations and 77 with healthy uteri were included in the study. In the subseptate group, 50 had a subseptum less than 10 mm, and 26 were greater than 10 mm. Uterine and uterine cavity widths were significantly greater than in healthy women. The postoperative cavity width (28 ± 0.9 mm) was correlated with the preoperative subseptum length (R = 0.42; P = .016) and width (R = 0.54; P = .001) and was similar to healthy uteri. The receiver operator characteristic curve identified 5.9 mm (sensitivity = 100%, specificity = 41.4%) as a new threshold length of subseptation, which shows a postoperative cavity adjustment comparable to a subseptation greater than 10 mm. Conclusions The relevance of subseptations shorter than 10 mm is currently undetermined and underestimated. Our data indicate a new subseptation cutoff length with postoperative remodeling and statistical relevance similar to longer subseptations. We propose a revision of the recommendations for surgical correction to include the objectively obtained subseptation length greater than or equal to 5.9 mm.
Establishing the use of cloud computing in supply chain management

Despite having various benefits associated with greater information flow in the supply chain, empirical cloud computing research is scarce in the supply chain management domain. This paper explores the managerial perceptions on the use of cloud computing in supply chain management. Specifically, this paper seeks to address: how cloud computing impacts information sharing among supply chain partners, the impact of trust in cloud information sharing and the impact of cloud computing on supply chain performance. Using a multi-method research design we present a combined semi-structured interviews of four different companies in the United States and a survey to analyze and empirically assess our results. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the results of this study. Our analysis provides empirical support based on managerial perceptions regarding cloud computing, information sharing and supply chain performance. The data provide evidence on the impact of cloud computing in enhancing information sharing. This information sharing through cloud computing appears to positively impact supply chain performance. This paper also provides support on the important role of inter-organizational trust in facilitating the use of cloud computing for information sharing purposes.
Substrate Channeling in an Artificial Metabolon: A Molecular Dynamics Blueprint for an Experimental Peptide Bridge

Natural enzyme cascades utilize electrostatic guidance as an effective technique to control the diffusion of charged reaction intermediates between catalytic active sites in a process known as substrate channeling. However, the limited understanding of channeling mechanisms has abated the application of this technique in artificial catalytic cascades. In this work, we utilize molecular dynamics simulations to describe the transport of anionic intermediates (e.g., oxalate and glucose-6-phosphate) on a theoretical cationic α-helix peptide bridge and identify rules for molecular-level design of electrostatic channeling. These simulations allowed us to elucidate a surface diffusion mechanism whereby the anionic intermediate undergoes discrete hydrogen-bonding interactions along adjacent cationic residues on the peptide bridge. Using MD simulations as a foundational blueprint, we synthesized an enzyme complex using a poly(lysine) peptide chain as a cationic bridge between glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and ...
Reproductive outcomes determine the timing of arrival and settlement of a single-brooded Nearctic–Neotropical migrant songbird (Catharus fuscescens) in South America

ABSTRACT The breeding seasons of Nearctic–Neotropical migratory songbirds are thought to be constrained by the temporal demands of subsequent seasons. In any population, a subset of adults may fail to fledge young despite repeated attempts, which may prolong reproductive effort. We used geolocators to track the single-brooded Veery (Catharus fuscescens) from a Delaware, USA, breeding site to South America and back, to examine how reproductive failure and the timing of reproduction affected the spatiotemporal aspects of the nonbreeding season. We also considered the effect of additional variables: age, sex, time in population (i.e. experience), productivity, and nutrition via ptilochronology. We found that clutch completion date and reproductive success were significant predictors of South American entry and arrival date at first winter sites, respectively. Reproductive success also influenced the latitude of winter sites. For females only, there was a consequence of reproductive failure: unsuccessful fema...
A Parallelization of Adaptive Integration Methods

A meta-algorithm for adaptive integration is specified. It includes a class of adaptive integrators which apply extrapolation to deal with boundary singularities. Methods adhering to the meta-algorithm are parallelized in a straightforward way with use of a set of macros layered over the Argonne macro package.
Characterization of Nanowire Devices Under Electrostatic Discharge Stress Conditions

Discussed in this chapter is the electrostatic discharge (ESD) as the pervasive threat from fabrication, packaging to assembly operation of IC. The ESD robustness of the gate-all-around Silicon nanowire FETs and poly-Si nanowire thin-film FETs is characterized and compared with other types of FETs including bulk/SOI FinFETs and MOSFETs. The ESD performance is specified in terms of the figures of merit such as the failure current, trigger voltage, on-state resistance, leakage current, and failure current density, etc. By using these figures of merits, the ESD performance of nanowire FETs is characterized as a function of gate length, channel shape and material, operation modes (bipolar or diode), process variation, and layout topologies. Moreover, the failure mechanism of nanowire FETs subject to ESD stresses is investigated by means of electrical characterization, optical microscopic observation, and failure analysis. Finally, the optimal nanowire structure and design window are proposed in the light of the ESD performance evaluations presented.
Sociological Testimony in Long-Term Care Litigation

With the growing population of residents in long-term care (LTC) facilities, sociologists can help defense and plaintiff attorneys and law firms in litigation involving the diagnosis, treatment, and management of various health and social problems at LTC facilities. Sociologists analyze medical records, develop questionnaires, scales, and other protocols, conduct experiments, and perform other research procedures to evaluate the degree of social, family, and occupational functioning or capacity of individuals in LTC facilities and other healthcare settings. Research findings also are used to assess organizational structure and process of LTC and can assist policy makers in developing LTC-related legislation. In this chapter, the author reviews social and behavior conditions that affect LTC care and provides several composite cases to illustrate the ways in which a sociologist can assist in LTC-associated litigation.
Rationality and the argument for anomalous monism

Critique de la these de l'anomalisme mental et de la metaphysique de l'esprit appelee monisme anormal, developpes par D. Davidson a partir de l'idee d'une disparite fondamentale entre l'explication physique et l'explication psychologique. Examinant les interpretations de Davidson developpees par J. Kim et W. Child, l'A. montre que celles-ci ne rendent pas compte du role de la rationalite dans l'attribution psychologique. En derniere anayse, l'A. presente sa propre reconstruction de l'argument de Davison, a partir de la these celebre selon laquelle les raisons sont des causes
Genie Mutants with altered system of excitation in Paramecium aurelia

Phenotypes of recently discovered behavioral mutants in Paramecium aurelia are described. The mutant “Paranoiac” spontaneously goes into continuous ciliary reversal (a type of behavior correlated with membrane depolarization). Two types of “Fast” mutants show abnormally high speed in forward movement (correlated with hyperpolarization). While Paranoiac overreacts to Na-Ca stimulation, some Fasts are relatively insensitive. The mutant “Pawn”, unable to reverse in most conditions, does not react to Na-Ca, K-Ca or mechanical stimuli. Reactions of different strains to solutions of different [Na+]/ or $$\sqrt {[Ca^{ + + } } ]$$ or [K+]/ $$\sqrt {[Ca^{ + + } } ]$$ are qualitatively (Fig. 3, 4) and quantitatively (Fig. 5) studied. The ability to perform negative geotaxis upon transfer into solutions of high [Na+]/ $$\sqrt {[Ca^{ + + } } ]$$ of a Fast mutant and of the wild type is compared (Fig. 7). These genie mutants apparently carry molecular lesions in the system of excitation, probably in the excitable membrane. The significance of mutagenesis on these excitable cells is discussed.
ProteomicsBrowser: MS/proteomics data visualization and investigation

Summary Large-scale, quantitative proteomics data are being generated at ever increasing rates by high-throughput, mass spectrometry technologies. However, due to the complexity of these large datasets as well as the increasing numbers of post-translational modifications (PTMs) that are being identified, developing effective methods for proteomic visualization has been challenging. ProteomicsBrowser was designed to meet this need for comprehensive data visualization. Using peptide information files exported from mass spectrometry search engines or quantitative tools as input, the peptide sequences are aligned to an internal protein database such as UniProtKB. Each identified peptide ion including those with PTMs is then visualized along the parent protein in the Browser. A unique property of ProteomicsBrowser is the ability to combine overlapping peptides in different ways to focus analysis of sequence coverage, charge state or PTMs. ProteomicsBrowser includes other useful functions, such as a data filtering tool and basic statistical analyses to qualify quantitative data. Availability and implementation ProteomicsBrowser is implemented in Java8 and is available at https://medicine.yale.edu/keck/nida/proteomicsbrowser.aspx and https://github.com/peng-gang/ProteomicsBrowser. Supplementary information Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Gore-Tex Mesh as Cause for Distal Outflow Graft Obstruction in Ventricular Assist Device Patients

Purpose Re-do sternotomy following left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implant can occur due to cardiac transplantation or device complication. A polytetrafluoroethylene membrane (Gore-Tex) has been used to cover portions of the outflow graft to reduce adhesions. We describe 3 cases of late-presenting extrinsic compression of the distal outflow graft from a Gore-Tex membrane in both HVAD and HMII devices. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of all LVAD implants which included a Gore-Tex membrane at our institution between 1/2012-6/2018. We defined cases of extrinsic outflow graft obstruction (OGO) by clinical presentation, CT imaging, and intraoperative findings. Results During the study period, 158 LVADs with tubular Gore-Tex outflow graft coverage were implanted (93 HVAD, 59 HM2, 4 HM3). Three cases of extrinsic OGO (1 HVAD, 2 HM2) were identified, for a cumulative incidence of 1.9% (1.44 per 100 patient years). The average time to clinical presentation was 1157 ± 155 days. Each case presented with persistent low-flow alarms detected via remote monitoring in the absence of power spikes or clinical symptoms. Markers of hemolysis (LDH, plasma free hemoglobin) were normal, INR was therapeutic, and echocardiograms did not indicate volume depletion or right ventricular failure. In each case, CT imaging demonstrated critical narrowing of the distal outflow graft (N=2) or aortic anastomosis (N=1) (Fig A). Each patient underwent surgical exploration; upon incision of the overlying Gore-Tex membrane, a proteinaceous material was drained resulting in immediate improvement in flows and avoidance of pump exchange (Fig B). Conclusion We highlight 3 cases of a previously undescribed mechanism of OGO by extrinsic compression, resulting from accumulation of proteinaceous material underneath the Gore-Tex membrane. Each presented with gradual onset of low flows without additional symptoms, suggesting that a high level of clinical suspicion is necessary to ensure appropriate management.
Electronic and geometric structure analysis of neutral and anionic metal nitric chalcogens: The case of MNX series (M=Li, Na, Be and X=O, S, Se, Te).

Coupled cluster and multireference configuration approaches are employed to study the electronic and geometric structures of mono-coordinated complexes of lithium, sodium, and beryllium with nitric oxide and its isovalent NS, NSe, and NTe species. Ground and low-lying excited states were examined for both linear-bonded and side-bonded isomers. We show that the ionic M+ NX- (M=Li, Na, Be and X=O, S, Se, Te) picture is a more natural representation and can account for the symmetry of the low-lying electronic states as Σ- , Δ, and Σ+ , the smaller excitation energies and the larger binding energies for heavier X. An additional electron binds to the positively charged Li and Na terminal creating stable anions. The electron affinity (EA) of LiNX and NaNX species is in the 0.5-0.8 eV range. Despite the negative EA of beryllium and the very small EA of NO, the BeNO molecule has an EA of ~1.0 eV, which is increased to ~1.5 eV for the heavier BeNX species. This is attributed to the fact that the additional electron goes to the beryllium end for BeNO but to a π(MN)π*(NX) orbital of the rest species. Our accurate results contradict previous findings and serve as a guide for future experimental studies. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Interstitial-Free Bake Hardening Realized by Epsilon Martensite Reverse Transformation

By investigating a metastable high-entropy alloy, we report a latent strengthening mechanism that is associated with the thermally-induced epsilon-martensite-to-austenite reverse transformation. We show this reversion-assisted hardening effect can be achieved in the same time-scale and temperature range as conventional bake-hardening treatment, but leads to both improved strength and cumulative ductility. Key mechanisms are discussed considering transformation kinetics, kinematics, strengthening and ductilization modules.
Using test questions as a sole method for assessing student critical thinking skills in a computer organization course

Critical thinking skills are difficult to develop in computer science students, and perhaps even more difficult to assess. This paper provides a methodology for using test questions as a sole method for developing and assessing critical thinking skills in a computer organization course. The instructor developed one special question for each of 5 chapter tests during the Fall 2013 semester and independently assessed each student's skill in using critical thinking to answer those questions. For feedback and positive reinforcement, the instructor provided a model answer for those questions during the post-test review. Correlational analysis was performed on the overall test scores versus the critical thinking ratings. Two test questions demonstrated a significant correlation with their respective overall test scores. These questions are recommended for future exploration as the types of questions that may be particularly helpful for future development and assessment of critical thinking skills.
Quantum Computing, AI, ML, and the Cloud

As discussed in Chap. 1, quantum computing while not yet scalable has the potential to change the processing capabilities of computing especially for ML and AI processing.
FPChecker: detecting floating-point exceptions in GPU applications

Floating-point arithmetic is widely used in applications from several fields including scientific computing, machine learning, graphics, and finance. Many of these applications are rapidly adopting the use of GPUs to speedup computations. GPUs, however, have limited support to detect floating-point exceptions, which hinders the development of reliable applications in GPU-based systems. We present FPChecker, the first tool to automatically detect floating-point exceptions in GPU applications. FPChecker uses the clang/LLVM compiler to instrument GPU kernels and to detect exceptions at runtime. Once an exception is detected, it reports to the programmer the code location of the exception as well as other useful information. The programmer can then use this report to avoid the exception, e.g., by modifying the application algorithm or changing the input. We present the design of FPChecker, an evaluation of the overhead of the tool, and a real-world case scenario on which the tool is used to identify a hidden exception. The slowdown of FPChecker is moderate and the code is publicly available as open source.
Low fitness and increased sedentary time are associated with worse asthma—The National Youth Fitness Survey

Author(s): Lu, Kim D; Forno, Erick; Radom-Aizik, Shlomit; Cooper, Dan M | Abstract: BackgroundAsthma is the most common chronic illness in children and is independently impacted by obesity and by fitness. The National Youth Fitness Survey collected data on aerobic fitness, body composition, and health outcomes in children 6 to 11 years old. The goal of this study is to test hypotheses regarding relationships between asthma, aerobic fitness, and sedentary time in this uniquely studied cohort of young children.MethodsA total of 665 children (6-11 years old; 49% male) were included in analyses. We explored relationships between asthma outcomes and aerobic fitness (measured by endurance time), self-reported sedentary time, and body mass index categories. Fitness was categorized as unfit (lowest 25% of endurance times) or fit. Multivariate logistic regression models were created for asthma outcomes and adjusted for race, age, sex, poverty status, and overweight/obesity.ResultsAmong the participants, 17.9% had a previous history of asthma and 11.4% had current asthma. Additionally, 37.3% of participants were overweight or obese. Low fitness was significantly associated with increased odds of past asthma, current asthma, asthma attacks, wheeze with exercise, and wheeze with activity limitations in multivariate models. Increased sedentary time was significantly associated with increased odds of previous asthma, current asthma, asthma attacks, and wheeze with activity limitations.ConclusionDecreased aerobic fitness and increased sedentary time were associated with worse asthma outcomes in this group of children (6-11 years old). This data suggest that fitness and sedentary time, both modifiable factors, each have an independent effect on asthma and should be included in assessments and management of asthma health.
Protecting Labor and Delivery Personnel from COVID-19 during the Second Stage of Labor.

The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is spreading fast and is affecting the clinical workers at much higher risk than the general population. Little is known about COVID-19 effect on pregnant women; however, the emerging evidence suggests they may be at high risk of asymptomatic disease. In light of projected shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE), there is an aggressive attempt at conservation. In obstetrics, the guidelines on PPE use are controversial and differ among hospitals, globally, as well as nationally. The centers for disease control and prevention (CDC) recommend using N95 respirators, which are respirators that offer a higher level of protection instead of a facemask for when performing or present for an aerosol-generating procedures (AGP). However, the second stage of labor is not considered an AGP. The second stage of labor can last up to 4 hours. During that time, labor and delivery personnel is in close contact to patients, who are exerting extreme effort during and frequently blow out their breath, cough, shout, and vomit, all of which put the health care team at risk, considering that COVID-19 transmission occurs through aerosol generated by coughing and sneezing. The CDC and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) do not provide clarification on the use of N95 during the second stage. We recommend that labor and delivery personnel have the utmost caution and be granted the protection they need to protect themselves and other patients. This includes providing labor and delivery personnel full PPE including N95 for the second stage of labor. This is critical to ensure the adequate protection for health care workers and to prevent spread to other health care workers and patients. Key Points
Changes in blood-brain permeability during pharmacologically induced convulsions.

Publisher Summary Disturbances of the normal functions of the “blood–brain barrier” are well known following a large variety of pathological stresses. Relatively less attention has been directed toward the transient alterations in solute exchange between blood and brain that may accompany less destructive stimuli. Such alterations may be significant in the pathogenesis of certain disorders of central nervous system function. In this chapter, experiments on temporary alterations in the entry of sulfate into brain were found to accompany pharmacologically-induced convulsions. Marked concomitant changes in brain surface pH, oxygen and carbon dioxide tensions were recorded by direct measurement during the convulsion. As a result of these observations, the influence of hypercapnia and acidosis on brain vascular permeability was studied in some detail. Sulfate and albumin were employed as indicators. The chapter mainly deals with: The effects of pharmacologically induced convulsions on the penetration of sulfate into cat brain, the effect of Metrazol on the penetration of albumin into cat brain and the effect of hypercapnia on the penetration of sulfate and albumin into the brain. As a conclusion, the chapter states that hypercarbia had a profound effect on vascular permeability in some regions of the brain while sparing others.
Association of Early vs Late Tracheostomy Placement With Pneumonia and Ventilator Days in Critically Ill Patients: A Meta-analysis.

Importance The timing of tracheostomy placement in adult patients undergoing critical care remains unestablished. Previous meta-analyses have reported mixed findings regarding early vs late tracheostomy placement for ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), ventilator days, mortality, and length of intensive care unit (ICU) hospitalization. Objective To compare the association of early (≤7 days) vs late tracheotomy with VAP and ventilator days in critically ill adults. Data Sources A search of MEDLINE, CINAHL, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, references of relevant articles, previous meta-analyses, and gray literature from inception to March 31, 2020, was performed. Study Selection Randomized clinical trials comparing early and late tracheotomy with any of our primary outcomes, VAP or ventilator days, were included. Data Extraction and Synthesis Two independent reviewers conducted all stages of the review. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guideline was followed. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) or the mean difference (MD) with 95% CIs were calculated using a random-effects model. Main Outcomes and Measures Primary outcomes included VAP and duration of mechanical ventilation. Intensive care unit days and mortality (within the first 30 days of hospitalization) constituted secondary outcomes. Results Seventeen unique trials with a cumulative 3145 patients (mean [SD] age range, 32.9 [12.7] to 67.9 [17.6] years) were included in this review. Individuals undergoing early tracheotomy had a decrease in the occurrence of VAP (OR, 0.59 [95% CI, 0.35-0.99]; 1894 patients) and experienced more ventilator-free days (MD, 1.74 [95% CI, 0.48-3.00] days; 1243 patients). Early tracheotomy also resulted in fewer ICU days (MD, −6.25 [95% CI, −11.22 to −1.28] days; 2042 patients). Mortality was reported for 2445 patients and was comparable between groups (OR, 0.66 [95% CI, 0.38-1.15]). Conclusions and Relevance Compared with late tracheotomy, early intervention was associated with lower VAP rates and shorter durations of mechanical ventilation and ICU stay, but not with reduced short-term, all-cause mortality. These findings have substantial clinical implications and may result in practice changes regarding the timing of tracheotomy in severely ill adults requiring mechanical ventilation.