cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A case of liver abscess and fusobacterium septicemia

Fusobacterium species are well described as the causative pathogen in Lemierre's syndrome, a suppurative thrombophlebitis of the jugular vein. However, they are less recognized for a unique variant of Lemierre's syndrome presenting with invasive intraabdominal infection and associated portal vein thrombosis. We describe a case of Fusobacterium nucleatum with hepatic abscess and septic pylephlebitis.
Pella Dutch: the Portrait of a Language and Its Use in One of Iowa's Ethnic Communities

Review of Pella Dutch: the Portrait of a Language and Its Use in One of Iowa's Ethnic Communities, by Philip E Webber
The Paradox of Achievement: The Harder You Push, the Worse it Gets

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the paradox of achievement that harder you push, the worse it gets. The chapter says that people can be motivated in more controlled ways or more self-determined ways, with intrinsic motivation and well-integrated extrinsic motivation being the bases for self-determination. By encouraging students' experimentation and self–initiation, teachers can foster students' willingness to take on challenges, explore new ideas, persist at difficult activities, and feel good about themselves. The chapter reviews an array of evidence suggesting that intrinsic motivation and the internalization of extrinsic motivation flourish in situations of secure relationships that provide opportunities for need satisfaction. By offering optimal challenges, providing feedback that is not evaluative of the person, giving a meaningful rationale for requested behavior, acknowledging feelings, providing greater choice, and setting up co-operative learning opportunities, teachers can foster students' self-determination. Moreover, by taking account of teachers' needs along with the students' needs, it is possible to begin implementing the types of widespread school reform that, although more difficult than simply emphasizing higher standards and using tougher tests, is nonetheless the most promising prospect we have for bringing about excellent education.
IPM for Drywood Termites (Isoptera: Kalotermitidae)

The foundation of IPM for drywood termites (Isoptera: Kalotermitidae) has academic and industry origins some extending back several decades. Regardless of the origin, the underlying philosophy of IPM for drywood termites is consistent and includes correct identification of the pest, monitoring its activity, and use of a variety of treatment methods including chemical, nonchemical, and prevention. Species diversity and adaptive biology can make the detection and treatment of drywood termites challenging and difficult. Advances in detection technology now make it feasible to determine whether drywood termites are active within wood. Recent advances have also made it feasible to non-chemically treat for drywood termites. Efficacy testing is incomplete for many of the newer detection and treatment options especially field trials. In addition, pest control legislation and regulations have not kept up with the technological changes, particularly for detection devices and nonchemical treatment options. The inter...
Rule by difference: Empire, liberalism, and the legacies of urban “improvement”:

From Victorian England and its colonies, to cities in South Asia today, “improvement” has long infused the language of urban planning. Through the case of Bangalore, India, this article argues that...
Chronological evaluation of interfacial damage in TBC due to thermal cycling

A two layer electron beam-physical vapor deposited (EV-PVD) thermal barrier coating (TBC) on a single crystal superalloy (Rene N5) substrate was characterized prior to and after thermal cycling at 2, 18, 25, 44, 50, 75, 100, 110, 150, and 175 cycles in between 200 C-1177 C. Optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and thermal wave imaging techniques were used to characterize the interfacial damage. Pt-Al was used as bond coat and 8 wt % YSZ was used as outer top layer. Interfacial cracking was observed even at two thermal cycles. Thermally grown oxide (TGO) layer increased with the number of thermal cycles. After numerous cycles over 100, interfacial separation was observed to be higher at the middle than at the edges of the sample. This observation is consistent with buckling induced delamination—a possible mechanism for spallation.
U.S. Policy Towards the Disputes in the South China Sea Since 1995

U.S. policy toward the disputes in the South China Sea has four features. First, the United States has altered its policy in response to changes in the level of tensions in the dispute. Second, U.S. policy toward the South China Sea has been premised on the principle of maintaining neutrality regarding the conflicting claims to sovereignty. Third, as its involvement in managing tensions has increased, the United States has emphasised the process and principles by which claims should be pursued more than the final outcome or resolution of the underlying disputes, especially conflict management through the conclusion of a binding code of conduct between ASEAN and China. Fourth, U.S. policy in the South China Sea has sought to shape China’s behaviour in the South China Sea by highlighting the costs of coercion and the pursuit of claims that are inconsistent with customary international law. Looking forward, the involvement of the United States in seeking to manage tensions in the South China Sea is likely to continue so long as the territorial and maritime jurisdictional disputes remain unresolved and states take declaratory steps and operational actions to assert and defend their claims.
Managing from the Floor or the Office: Gender Differences in Managerial Control

Gender parity in representation declines precipitously as women rise in managerial ranks of organizations. This decline may be, in part, due to how managers approach daily work. Yet, relatively lit...
The Black Elderly and Community-Based Social Services:

The author explores service awareness, service use, and reasons for nonuse of six community-based social services among a sample of older black persons living in Florida. Results indicated that ser...
Impact of corticosteroid administration on outcomes following stereotactic ablative radiotherapy for non-small cell lung cancer.

e20518Background: Because radiotherapy(RT) induces antitumoral immune responses, administering corticosteroids (CS) for other medical issues is a major oncologic concern. This is the only study eva...
An autonomous, highly portable NMR spectrometer based on a low-cost System-on-Chip (SoC).

Abstract This paper describes the development of a portable and self-optimizing NMR spectrometer based on a miniaturized custom analog front-end and a System-on-Chip (SoC)-based digital back-end. The SoC integrates a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) fabric with a hard processor running a Linux operating system, thus enabling fully-autonomous operation without the need for an external computer. In the proposed approach, data captured by the FPGA fabric during regular operation is transported to the hard processor using an integrated on-chip bus for further processing. The processed results are then used to automatically estimate parameter values that optimize a suitable cost function, such as signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) per unit time. Finally, the optimized values of both electrical and NMR-related tuning parameters (e.g., preamplifier gain and frequency response, pulse length and amplitude, operating frequency, etc.) are programmed back into the front-end and back-end hardware. Experimental NMR results from various samples in a ∼0.1 T permanent magnet are presented to verify the operation of the proposed spectrometer. These demonstrate on-board Laplace inversion and automated frequency tuning to compensate for temperature changes. Preliminary 14 N NQR results are also presented.
BotCamp: Bot-driven Interactions in Social Campaigns

Bots (i.e. automated accounts) involve in social campaigns typically for two obvious reasons: to inorganically sway public opinion and to build social capital exploiting the organic popularity of social campaigns. In the process, bots interact with each other and engage in human activities (e.g. likes, retweets, and following). In this work, we detect a large number of bots interested in politics. We perform multi-aspect (i.e. temporal, textual, and topographical) clustering of bots, and ensemble the clusters to identify campaigns of bots. We observe similarity among the bots in a campaign in various aspects such as temporal correlation, sentimental alignment, and topical grouping. However, we also discover bots compete in gaining attention from humans and occasionally engage in arguments. We classify such bot interactions in two primary groups: agreeing (i.e. positive) and disagreeing (i.e. negative) interactions and develop an automatic interaction classifier to discover novel interactions among bots participating in social campaigns.
A Survey of Computer Architecture Simulation Techniques and Tools

Computer architecture simulators play an important role in advancing computer architecture research. With wider research directions and the increased number of simulators that have been developed, it becomes harder to choose a particular simulator to use. This paper reviews the fundamentals of different computer architecture simulation techniques. It also surveys many computer architecture simulators and classifies them into different groups based on their simulation models. Comparing computer architecture simulators with each other and validating their accuracy have been demanding tasks for architects. In addition to providing a survey of computer architecture simulation tools, we measured the experimental error of six contemporary computer architecture simulators: gem5, MARSS×86 , Multi2Sim, PTLsim, Sniper, and ZSim. We also performed a detailed comparison of these simulators based on other features such as flexibility and micro-architectural details. We believe that this paper will be a very useful resource for the computer architecture community especially for early-stage computer architecture and systems researchers to gain exposure to the existing architecture simulation options.
The D-basis Algorithm for Association Rules of High Confidence

We develop a new approach for distributed computing of the association rules of high confidence on the attributes/columns of a binary table. It is derived from the D-basis algorithm developed by K.Adaricheva and J.B.Nation (Theoretical Computer Science, 2017), which runs multiple times on sub-tables of a given binary table, obtained by removing one or more rows. The sets of rules retrieved at these runs are then aggregated. This allows us to obtain a basis of association rules of high confidence, which can be used for ranking all attributes of the table with respect to a given fixed attribute. This paper focuses on some algorithmic details and the technical implementation of the new algorithm. Results are given for tests performed on random, synthetic and real data.
Beginning the “never-ending” learning process: Training experiences of newly-hired child welfare workers

Abstract Background Quality pre-service training for child welfare workers is a priority factor to promote child outcomes in the child welfare system. This study combines two theory of transfer frameworks to consider recently-hired workers' training experiences and their perspectives on the conditions that facilitated meaningful trainings that prepared them for their work. Methodology The study used qualitative telephone interviews with participants sampled from a statewide cohort of newly-hired, frontline child welfare workers (n = 38). We used thematic analysis to consider participants' training experiences and the conditions that facilitated meaning. Findings Workers expressed a variety of reactions to their training with almost one-third describing it in universally positive terms (n = 11, 29%), one-third describing it in universally negative terms (n = 13, 34%), and the remainder describing both negative and positive components (n = 14, 39%). Thematic analysis resulted in five attributes that workers perceive contribute to successful training experiences: structured, non-redundant content relevant to their positions; interactive content delivery; practice with job responsibilities; practice with system protocols; and recognition of the never-ending learning process Conclusions Workers' training perceptions can provide valuable feedback to promote theoretically- and empirically-based trainings. Trainings that consider workers' knowledge level and position; offer step-by-step procedural manuals and checklists; and establish agency policies that foster mentorship and support can promote training success.
A Computational Analysis of Oral Argument in the Supreme Court

As the most public component of the Supreme Court’s decision-making process, oral argument receives an out-sized share of attention in the popular media. Despite its prominence, however, the basic function and operation of oral argument as an institution remains poorly understood, as political scientists and legal scholars continue to debate even the most fundamental questions about its role. Past study of oral argument has tended to focus on discrete, quantifiable attributes of oral argument, such as the number of questions asked to each advocate, the party of the Justices’ appointing president, or the ideological implications of the case on appeal. Such studies allow broad generalizations about oral argument and judicial decision making: Justices tend to vote in accordance with their ideological preferences, and they tend to ask more questions when they are skeptical of a party’s position. But they tell us little about the actual goings on at oral argument—the running dialog between Justice and advocate that is the heart of the institution. This Article fills that void, using machine learning techniques to, for the first time, construct predictive models of judicial decision making based not on oral argument’s superficial features or on factors external to oral argument, such as where the case falls on a liberal-conservative spectrum, but on the actual content of the oral argument itself—the Justices’ questions to each side. The resultant models offer an important new window into aspects of oral argument that have long resisted empirical study, including the Justices’ individual questioning styles, how each expresses skepticism, and which of the Justices’ questions are most central to oral argument dialog.
Modulating the properties of flow-assembled chitosan membranes in microfluidics with glutaraldehyde crosslinking

Flow-assembled chitosan membranes are robust and semipermeable hydrogel structures formed in microfluidic devices that have been used for important applications such as gradient generation and studying cell-cell signaling. One challenge, however, remains unresolved. When a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microchannel with a flow-assembled, deprotonated chitosan membrane (DCM) is treated with anti-adhesion agents such as Pluronic F-127 to prevent biomolecular and cellular adsorption on PDMS, the interaction between DCM and PDMS is compromised and the DCM easily delaminates. To address this challenge, DCMs in microfluidics are crosslinked with glutaraldehyde to modulate their properties, and the altered properties of the glutaraldehyde treated chitosan membrane (GTCM) are investigated. First, the GTCM's acidic resistance was confirmed, its mechanical robustness against hydrostatic pressure was significantly improved, and it remained intact on PDMS after Pluronic treatment. Second, crystallization in DCM and GTCM was investigated with quantitative polarized light microscopy (qPLM), which revealed that GTCM's optical retardance and anisotropy were lower, implying less molecular alignment than in DCM. Finally, membrane permeability was tested with FITC-labeled dextran transport experiments, which showed that the transport across GTCM was slightly higher than that across DCM. Overall, glutaraldehyde-crosslinked chitosan membrane has better acidic resistance, higher strength under Pluronic treatment, and less molecular microalignment, while its semi-permeability is retained. This study demonstrates how glutaraldehyde crosslinking can be used to modify and improve biopolymer membrane properties for broader applications, such as in an acidic environment or when Pluronic passivation is needed.
The Ocular Manifestations and Transmission of COVID-19: Recommendations for Prevention.

Abstract Background Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), caused by a novel coronavirus termed severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), has been linked to ocular signs and symptoms in several case reports. Research has demonstrated that SARS-CoV-2 is spread primarily through close contact via respiratory droplets, but there is the possibility for ocular transmission, with the conjunctiva as a conduit as well as a source of infection. Discussion Ocular manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 include follicular conjunctivitis, and have been repeatedly noted as an initial or subsequent symptom of COVID-19-positive patients. Particularly in patients with ocular manifestations, there is evidence that the virus may present in tears, based on the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in conjunctival swab samples via reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. The virus may therefore be transmittable from the ocular surface to a new host via contact with the ocular mucosa, tears, or subsequent fomites. Conclusions All health care professionals should ask patients about ocular symptoms consistent with SARS-CoV-2, and use eye protection such as goggles or face shields as part of the standard personal protective equipment for high-risk patients in addition to wearing of masks by both the patient and provider, and should consider tears to be potentially infectious.
Advanced Sample Preparation Techniques for Rescuing Damaged Samples with Cracks, Scratches, or Unevenness in Delayering

Nowadays, physical failure analysis (PFA) technique of delayering by finger polishing is still widely used in FA labs, a method that is direct, simple, and flexible. However, with continuous technology scaling of semiconductor devices, conventional top down polishing method becomes more and more challenging with the increased number of transistors and layer stacks, introducing higher risk of sample damage. Therefore, not only new methods of sample preparation but also solutions for fixing problems are highly desired to cope with the increasing complexity of the modern IC devices. In this paper, advanced sample preparation techniques for rescuing damaged samples with cracks, scratches, or unevenness in delayering are introduced, through three typical rescue cases. These techniques are useful and critical for delivering FA results with high quality and high success rate, especially for those “one of a kind” devices.
Data-based reduced-order modeling of nonlinear two-time-scale processes

Abstract This work focuses on data-based reduced-order modeling of nonlinear processes that exhibit time-scale multiplicity. Using time-series data from all the state variables of a nonlinear process, an approach that involves nonlinear principal component analysis and neural network function approximators is employed to identify the fast and slow process state variables as well as compute a nonlinear slow manifold function approximation in which the fast variables are “slaved” in terms of the slow variables. Subsequently, a nonlinear sparse identification approach is employed to calculate a dynamic model of nonlinear first-order ordinary differential equations that describe the temporal evolution of the slow process states. The method is applied to two chemical process examples, and the advantages of the proposed method over using only sparse identification for the original two-time-scale process are discussed. The approach can be thought of as a data-based analogue of the classical singular perturbation modeling of two-time-scale processes where explicit time-scale separation is assumed (and expressed in terms of a small positive parameter e multiplying the time derivative of the fast states), and the reduced-order slow subsystem is calculated analytically.
Exploring the Diversity of the Marine Environment for New Anti-cancer Compounds

Marine ecosystems contain over 80% of the world’s biodiversity, and many of these organisms have evolved unique adaptations enabling survival in diverse and challenging environments. The biodiversity within the world’s oceans is a virtually-untapped resource for the isolation and development of novel compounds, treatments, and solutions to combat human disease. In particular, while over half of our anti-cancer drugs are derived from natural sources, almost all of these are from terrestrial ecosystems. Yet, even from the limited analyses to date, a number of marine-derived anti-cancer compounds have been approved for clinical use, and several others are currently in clinical trials. Here, we review the current suite of marine-derived anti-cancer drugs, with a focus on how these compounds act upon the hallmarks of cancer. We highlight potential marine environments and species that could yield compounds with unique mechanisms. Continued exploration of marine environments along with the characterization and screening of their inhabitants for unique bioactive chemicals could prove fruitful in the hunt for novel anti-cancer therapies.
A Guided Deep Reinforcement Learning Method For Distribution Voltage Regulation via Battery Systems

The rapid growth of photovoltaic penetration leads to serious voltage issues in distribution grids. While the battery energy storage system has been used for voltage regulation, its effectiveness is limited by the assumption of adequate battery sizes. In this paper, we first propose a battery scheduling model to relax the battery size assumption. Afterward, a deep reinforcement learning-based method is proposed to solve this high-dimensional scheduling model. The method includes a guided training framework, which combines reward shaping and curriculum learning techniques to guide the training. The proposed method has been implemented to the IEEE 13-bus test feeder. It shows that the guided training framework accelerates the training and improves the convergence.
Gender differences in refraction prediction error of five formulas for cataract surgery.

To evaluate gender differences in optical biometry measurements and lens power calculations. Eight thousand four hundred thirty-one eyes of five thousand five hundred nineteen patients who underwent cataract surgery at University of Michigan’s Kellogg Eye Center were included in this retrospective study. Data including age, gender, optical biometry, postoperative refraction, implanted intraocular lens (IOL) power, and IOL formula refraction predictions were gathered and/or calculated utilizing the Sight Outcomes Research Collaborative (SOURCE) database and analyzed. There was a statistical difference between every optical biometry measure between genders. Despite lens constant optimization, mean signed prediction errors (SPEs) of modern IOL formulas differed significantly between genders, with predictions skewed more hyperopic for males and myopic for females for all 5 of the modern IOL formulas tested. Optimization of lens constants by gender significantly decreased prediction error for 2 of the 5 modern IOL formulas tested. Gender was found to be an independent predictor of refraction prediction error for all 5 formulas studied. Optimization of lens constants by gender can decrease refraction prediction error for certain modern IOL formulas.
Fate and toxicity of engineered nanomaterials in the environment: A meta-analysis

Abstract The global environment annually receives thousands of tons of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs, particles less than 100 nm diameter). These particles have high active surface area, unique chemical properties, and can enter cells. Humanity uses many ENMs for their biological reactivity (e.g. microbicides), but their environmental effects are complex. We cataloged 2102 experimental results on whole organisms for 22 particle classes (mainly on Ag, Zn, Ti, and Cu) to assess biological responses, effective and lethal concentrations, and bioaccumulation of ENMs. Most responses were negative and varied significantly by particle type, functional group of organism, and type of response. Smaller particles tended to be more toxic. Aquatic organisms responded more negatively than did terrestrial organisms. Animals generally were most sensitive and plants least. Silver ENMs generally had the strongest negative effects. Effective and lethal concentrations generally exceeded modeled environmentally relevant concentrations and organisms usually did not accumulate or biomagnify to concentrations above those in their environment. However, most experiments lasted less than a week and were not field studies. Research to date is probably insufficient to understand chronic effects and long-term biomagnification. Numerous unique and untested ENMs continue to enter environments at accelerating rates, and our analysis indicates potential for negative effects. Our data suggest substantial research is still required to understand the ultimate influence of ENMs as they continue to accumulate in the environment. Around 40% of the papers with experimental data for ENMs failed with respect to reporting means, sample sizes, or experimental error, or they did not have proper experimental design (e.g. lack of true controls). We need more high-quality experiments that are more realistic (field or mesocosm), longer duration, contain a wider range of organisms, and account for complex food web structure.
The Application of Logic to Fields Other Than Itself

The problem I address in this essay is whether the existence of the exclusive ‘or’ in actual discourse really is a myth. To avoid even the appearance of bad faith, I should say at the outset that nothing much seems to turn on the answer to this question. Moreover, I am hesitant to enter into a dispute from which I feel excluded because of my differences from those engaged in the fight. However, I am emboldened by the fact no one else seems to have my concerns, despite the many current critical discussions of, for example, the truth-functional analysis of the conditional, or of negation, or my topic, alternation.
Colours of retroreflective sign materials when illuminated by high-intensity-discharge headlamps

This analytical study evaluated the colorimetric properties of retroreflective traffic signs when illuminated by high–intensity–discharge (HID) headlamps. Two aspects were investigated: (1) calorimetric shifts of individual sign materials when illuminated by HID light sources as opposed to halogen: and (2) calorimetric separations of the red sign material from the yellow, orange, and brown sign materials when illuminated by HID light sources. Spectral reflectances of sign materials and spectral power distributions of HID (and halogen) headlamps were used to deprive the CIE tristimulus values for the sign materials. These values were then transformed into the CIELAB space - a perceptually uniform colour space. The results of the analyses indicate that the magnitude of the colorimetric shift increased with increasing correlated colour temperature of the HID light source. The resulting colorimetric separations of red from yellow, orange, and brown far the HID light sources also tended to increase with increasing correlated colour temperature, with the higher–temperature HID light source tested yielding greater colorimetric separations than halogen.
Src autoinhibition: let us count the ways

Src family tyrosine kinases are key cellular signaling enzymes whose catalytic activities are tightly controlled. Recent structural and mutational studies have revealed additional intricacies in the autoinhibitory mechanisms by which catalytic activity is repressed.
Preventing Deposition Abuse in Illinois

Illinois Supreme Court rules and precedents guiding depositions in Illinois civil actions lead to too much deposition witness abuse. To prevent abuse there could be new written rules and decisional precedents on judicial limits ahead of any scheduled depositions; for the taking of scheduled depositions; and, for judicial sanctions arising from actual witness abuse at depositions. Greater protections of deposition witnesses are afforded elsewhere. There is no reason to believe that deposition witnesses are less likely to be abused, or that deposition witnesses suffer less, in Illinois than elsewhere. Protections elsewhere that are most worthy of consideration include laws preventing abuses before depositions occur rather than laws operating during or after depositions. Prevention can be furthered by new rules requiring or encouraging conferrals before formal discovery begins; mandating additional certifications by discovering parties; and, allowing protective orders limiting certain depositions even when relevant information is sought.
Inferring LISP programs from examples

A program is described which infers certain recursive LISP programs from single example input-output pairs Synthesized programs may recur in more than one argument, and may involve the synthesis of auxiliary functions An actual user session with the program, called EXAMPLE, is presented, and the operation of the program and its important heuristics are outlined.
On the gender orientation of the design task domain: empirical study results

This paper is a sequel to the FIE conference paper published in 2002, which highlighted the potential effect of the gender orientation of the product design task domain on the performance of design teams with different gender compositions. Building on the previous work, this study presents a designed experiment where reasons underlying the perceived gender orientation of the task domain were studied using six sections of an introductory engineering (ED&G 100) course during Fall 2003. Data collection included both quantitative (survey items) as well as qualitative (focus groups, open-ended questions) methods. This paper reveals survey study results of the study focusing on understanding task domain's gender orientation. The major finding of the study is that when a task domain is deemed favoring a gender, the reasons for doing so are related to the gender associations of the institutions, objects, actions, and related knowledge. This finding's implications are that if a task's domain is framed in a way to neutralize the gender orientations, a more equitable education environment can be established both for male and female students.
Foster Parents Versus Agencies: A Case Study in the Judicial Application of 'The Best Interests of the Child' Doctrine

T is generally conceded that, in the area of child welfare, social service agencies have the expert knowledge and methods for making enlightened custodial dispositions. Consequently, courts rely on agency decisions and have come to utilize agencies as the intermediate placement for a child whose custody must be resolved. Child welfare agencies are given the authority to choose the custodian for a child on a temporary, permanent, or indefinite basis, and may, at times, be authorized to supervise the placement of the child. In a certain sense, the court is surrendering its jurisdiction by its reliance on the welfare agencies, and this delegation of decisionmaking power may have far-reaching consequences. Whether welfare agencies use their power as wisely as courts assume depends largely on what we mean by "wisely" and on what agency is involved. In general, courts unfortunately have neither the time nor the facilities to supervise agency placements, and it is only when an individual has been rejected as a qualified custodian that courts have an opportunity to review agency practices. A recurring problem which courts face is the need to resolve the conflict which arises when foster parents challenge the decision of agencies that have disqualified these persons from continuing their relationship with or adopting their foster child. This article will explore the role of courts in resolving these disputes and will suggest some criteria by which the courts may be guided in deciding such questions.
Conformational energies of C 4 F 9 OC 2 H 5 (HFE-7200)

Abstract A chirp Fourier transform microwave spectrometer has been used to record the rotational spectra of two isomers of the hydrofluoroether C 4 F 9 OC 2 H 5 (ethoxynonafluorobutane also known as HFE-7200) between 7.8 and 16.2 GHz. The target compound was spectroscopically examined as it participated in a supersonic expansion of argon. Four separate rotational spectra have been identified amongst the congested data. Spectroscopic parameters are presented for each species. The structures of all four species have been identified by exploring the multi-dimensional potential energy surfaces using quantum chemical calculations.
Sociostructural considerations of domestic femicide

Previous research on the domestic murder of women is relatively scant. Domestic femicide data collected from 32 state domestic violence coalitions was regressed on variables associated with three theoretical explanations: economic stress and inequality variables, criminal justice variables, and community variables. Findings suggest that state size has the largest impact on the number of domestic femicides, perhaps because of the relationship between state size and other variables such as poverty and public services. Not related to domestic femicide are variables such as the number of officers on the street, the number of violent crimes, or household income.
MYOTONIA DYSTROPHICA WITH A-V DISSOCIATION AND STOKES-ADAMS ATTACKS: A CASE REPORT AND REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE.

Abstract The case of a patient with myotonia dystrophica who developed atrioventricular dissociation with Stokes-Adams attacks has been presented. Since the Stokes-Adams attacks were refractory to medical management, an implantable electronic pacemaker was utilized. This offered an opportunity to inspect the heart and obtain a biopsy which showed diffuse fibrosis in the absence of gross coronary artery disease. These findings lend credence to the concept that the myocardial changes in myotonia dystrophica are not due to associated coronary artery disease.
Multidimensional Symmetry in a Three-Dimensional World

Nuclear magnetic resonance carries information not only about intermolecular but also about intramolecular structure. The latter interactions have historically been viewed mostly as a nuisance to be eliminated, but this perspective is changing. In his Perspective, [Warren][1] highlights the report by [ Baugh et al .][2], who have observed large intermolecular dipolar interactions for hydrogen molecules in nanometer-scale voids in amorphous silicon. The results show that dipolar effects, far from being a nuisance, can provide a valuable probe of nanometer-scale structure. [1]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/294/5546/1475 [2]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/short/294/5546/1505
Chemistry of Small Metal Cluster Ions

In this paper we report absolute cross sections for reactions of small aluminum cluster ions Al 1–5 + with several neutral reagents. Dependence of reactivity on cluster size and collision energy has been measured in a tandem mass spectrometer equipped with radio frequency (rf) ion guides and a unique source of thermalized metal cluster ions.
Modeling Ruminant Digestion and Metabolism

Our general objective in this chapter is to provide an overview of our research program which for the past 25 years has involved the use and coordination of both experimental and modeling research approaches. Our overall goal has been to advance our understanding of animal digestion (particularly in ruminants) and metabolism, and devise objective and quantitative means to bridge the gap between our knowledge of basic animal functions and animal performance. Early on we came to the view that systems analysis may be the only approach available which enables rigorous quantitative evaluations of our knowledge of animal functions and full utilization of this knowledge in the solution of problems in animal production. This approach is compatible with the view of science depicted in schematic form (Fig. 1) by Thornley and France (1984) and discussed in greater detail by Forbes and France (1993) and Baldwin (1995).
Computerized design and generation of double circular-arc helical gears with low transmission errors

Abstract The authors have computerized the simulation of meshing and contact of double circular-arc helical gears, and determined the impact of gear misalignment on transmission errors. A modified geometry of the gears for absorption of transmission errors caused by misalignment has been developed. The generation and the geometry of the gears are represented in the Appendices. Numerical examples that illustrate the developed theory are represented.
Modulation of Catalytic Function by Differential Plasticity of the Active Site: Case Study of Trypanosoma cruzi trans-Sialidase and Trypanosoma rangeli Sialidase

trans-Sialidase is an essential enzyme for Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas' disease, to escape from the host immune system and to invade the host cells. Therefore, T. cruzi trans-sialidase (TcTS) presents a potential and appealing therapeutic target for this lethal disease. The availability of a structurally very similar enzyme with strict hydrolase activity (Trypanosoma rangeli sialidase, TrSA) provides us a unique opportunity to understand the determinants of their structure and catalytic mechanism. In this study, we compare the catalytic cleft plasticity of free (apo) and ligand-bound (holo) forms of the two enzymes using molecular dynamics simulations. We focus on the mouth of the catalytic cleft that is defined by two residues: W312 and Y119 in TcTS and W312 and S119 in TrSA. Our results indicate that TcTS has a very flexible, widely open catalytic cleft, mostly due to W312 loop motion, in apo form. However, when the catalytic cleft is occupied by a ligand, the flexibility and solvent exposure of TcTS is significantly reduced. On the other hand, TrSA maintains a more open catalytic cleft compared to its crystal structures in both apo and holo forms (and compared to TcTS in holo forms). The reduced solvent exposure of TcTS catalytic cleft might be partially or fully responsible for TcTS to be a less efficient hydrolase than TrSA.
GLUTAMINE-RICH DOMAINS ACTIVATE TRANSCRIPTION IN YEAST SACCHAROMYCES CEREVISIAE

Abstract Activation domains of eukaryotic transcription factors can be classified into at least three distinct types based on their amino acid composition: acidic, proline-rich, and glutamine-rich. Acidic activators, such as yeast GAL4 and GCN4 and herpes simplex virus VP16, have been shown to stimulate transcription in various higher and lower eukaryotic cells. Similarly, proline-rich activators also function in both mammalian and yeast cells. These activators are regarded to possess “universal” activating potentials. By contrast, several studies have suggested that glutamine-rich activators such as human Sp1 are active in higher (mammalian) but not lower (yeast) eukaryotic cells. One interpretation is that lower eukaryotic cells lack a critical co-factor necessary for a glutamine-rich domain. This reasoning is counter-intuitive because many native yeast activator proteins contain glutamine-rich domains. Here, we have investigated the activity of a glutamine-rich GAL4-Sp1 domain A (Sp1A) hybrid protein in yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We show that GAL4-Sp1A activated a GAL1-lacZ reporter by more than 200-fold over basal when the reporter was carried on a 2μ vector. The generality of the Sp1A results is supported by our finding that yeast glutamine-rich domains from HAP2 and MCM1 are also transcriptionally active inS. cerevisiae. Interestingly, we found that glutamine-rich domains are considerably less potent when responsive promoters (i.e. GAL1-lacZ) are integrated into yeast chromosome. Thus our results segregate the inherent transcriptional activity of a glutamine-rich domain in yeast S. cerevisiaefrom its apparent lack of activity when assayed on chromosomally embedded promoters.
Integrating big data into the computing curricula

An important recent technological development in computer science is the availability of highly distributed and scalable systems to process Big Data, i.e., datasets with high volume, velocity and variety. Given the extensive and effective use of systems incorporating Big Data in many application scenarios, these systems have become a key component in the broad landscape of database systems. This fact creates the need to integrate the study of Big Data Management Systems as part of the computing curricula. This paper presents well-structured guidelines to perform this integration by describing the important types of Big Data systems and demonstrating how each type of system can be integrated into the curriculum. A key contribution of this paper is the description of an array of course resources, e.g., virtual machines, sample projects, and in-class exercises, and how these resources support the learning outcomes and enable a hands-on experience with Big Data technologies.
Three-dimensional open frameworks based on cobalt(II) and nickel(II) m-pyridinecarboxylates.

Three-dimensional open frameworks [Co2(nicotinate)4(μ-H2O)]·CH3CH2OH·H2O, 1, and [Ni2(nicotinate)4(μ-H2O)]·CH3CH2OH·H2O, 2, were obtained by hydro(solvo)thermal reactions between 3-cyanopyridine and cobalt(II) nitrate and nickel(II) perchlorate, respectively. Both 1 and 2 exhibit complicated 3-D structures based on [M2(nicotinate)4(μ-H2O)] (M = Co or Ni) building blocks and possess open channels that are occupied by removable solvent molecules. 3-D open frameworks [M2L4(μ-H2O)]·HL·(H2O)x (where M = Co, x = 2, 3, and M = Ni, x = 1, 4, and L = trans-3-(3-pyridyl)acrylate) were similarly prepared with trans-3-(3-pyridyl)acrylic acid in place of 3-cyanopyridine. Compounds 3 and 4 are isostructural and exhibit network topologies similar to that of 1 with open channels occupied by disordered trans-3-(3-pyridyl)acrylic acid and water guest molecules. Crystal data for 1: triclinic space group P1, a = 10.534(1) A, b = 11.907(1) A, c = 14.046(1) A, α = 106.645(1)°, β = 101.977(1)°, γ = 112.078(1)°, and Z = 4. Cry...
Student perceptions of the effects of classroom assessment techniques (CATs)

Abstract Recent efforts to improve accounting education challenged professors to shift their focus from what they teach, to what their students learn. Along with changing course content and instructional methods, professors have placed greater emphasis on assessment. Many have added Classroom Assessment Techniques (CATs) to their classes, and literature on the subject is emerging. This paper makes two contributions. First, it introduces a unique CAT, the Feedback Form. Professors can use this single CAT to assess different aspects of learning without confusing or overloading students. Second, it reports on a study that measured students' perceptions of Feedback Forms. The results suggest that students perceived Feedback Forms to complement, rather than substitute for, a traditional approach to assessment. Students found added value in Feedback Forms, even when they used them all of the time. There are several promising areas of future research, including following up on gender differences observed in this study.
Evaluation of asymptomatic microhematuria

Abstract Objectives. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a comprehensive urine cytodiagnostic assay to assist in localizing the site of origin and the etiology of asymptomatic microhematuria. This analysis, which assesses various qualitative and quantitative aspects of the voided urine, is compared simultaneously with controls obtained from the established routine urologic evaluation. Methods. One hundred consecutive subjects who presented solely for the evaluation of asymptomatic mirohematuria were evaluated by the established routine urologic evaluation and a refined urine cytodiagnotic assay. For the purpose of this study, only calculi and neoplasms were considered significant findings. Results. The incidence of significant urologic disease was 13% (3 renal neoplasms, 2 urothelial bladder carcinomas, and 8 urinary calculi). The refined urine cytodiagnostic assay identified both uroepithelial vesical neoplasms, 7 of the 8 urinary calculi, and none of the 3 renal neoplasms. The presence of dysmorphic urinary red blood cells (RBCs) and RBC casts was strongly suggestive of renal parenchymal bleeding. Overall, 43 of 44 subjects (98%) with dysmorphic RBCs and RBC casts failed to demonstrate any significant urologic etiology. Conclusions. These preliminary results suggest that the refined cytodiagnostic urine assay may be helpful in distinguishing whether a given patient's microhematuria is of a significant urologic or a renal parenchymal cause. The addition of this specialized urinalysis may prove a useful adjunct in improving the diagnostic yield in patients with asymptomatic microhematuria.
Introduction to This Special Issue on Understanding Design Thinking

The design of artifacts and how designers make them have garnered renewed societal interest as interactive technologies create new opportunities and challenges. The world we experience has never before been as diverse, socially and materially, or as malleable as it now. Increased computation and interactivity are changing the appearance, evolution, and interactions of the personal and collective artifacts that shape our everyday experiences, family and community life, and learning and work activity. These digital artifacts increasingly leverage sensing and physical interaction to provide information atour fingertips and connect us to people around the globe. This new generation of digital technologies gives people a great deal of discretion as to what artifacts and services they use and how they use them (Grudin, 2005). Adoption and appropriation of new digital artifacts is increasingly part of everyday life, and this change draws our attention—and sense of curiosity—to how these artifacts are designed. When we talk about designing, we share Herbert Simon’s (1969) broad view that ‘‘everyone designs who devises courses of action aimed at changing existing situations into preferred ones’’ (p. 129). The articles in this special issue can usefully be read with that broad view of design. That said, we and the authors focus on design professionals, students, and researchers as canonical instances. Ascomputationalartifactstakeonnewshapesandplaynewroles,sododesigners (Moggridge, 2007). Designers of digital artifacts face more complex constraints than, say, furniture designers a century ago. Their work must integrate diverse considerations, physicalandmechanical engineering, software engineering, userinterface design anduser experience, andaesthetics, aswell asdiverse culture andhuman values (Dreyfuss, 1955). The position of design and designers at the nexus of so many complex
Immunosensors Based on Functional Nanoparticle Labels

The electrochemical immunosensors based on functional nanoparticle (NP) labels were described. We have developed functionalized silica NPs conjugates and functionalized gold nanoparticles for sensitive immunoassay of proteins such as mouse IgG and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). These functionalized NPs were characterized by AFM, TEM, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, or electrochemistry. And the analytical performance of these immunosensors was examined. It is found that these methods are very sensitive and the limit of detection was found to be down to 1.0 pM level. The work demonstrates the feasibility of developing a cheap, sensitive, and portable device for multiplexed diagnosis of different proteins. This method is simple, selective and reproducible for trace protein analysis and can be extended to study protein/protein, peptide/protein, and DNA/ protein interactions.
Biofuels and water quality: challenges and opportunities for simulation modeling

Quantification of the various impacts of biofuel feedstock production on hydrology and water quality is complex. Mathematical models can be used to efficiently evaluate various ‘what if’ scenarios ...