cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Does privatization make a difference? the impact of private contracting on municipal efficiency

This paper focuses on a public administration issue of continuing significance: the privatization of public services. Specifically, the study compares efficiency indicators across two groups of cities. One of the groups is comprised of cities that make extensive use of privatization while the other provides services through traditional municipal departments staffed with public employees. Most privatization studies focus on specific services and compare the relative efficiency of public and private production. Very little attention has been given to the impact privatization has on the larger functional areas of cities. This paper expands the conventional paradigm by attempting to determine whether the functional areas of contractual cities operate more efficiently than a comparable group of full- service cities. Efficiency indicators were compared between two groups of cities using a variety of statistical techniques including analysis of the variance (ANOVA) and multiple regression. Six major functional a...
Muscle differentiation and macromolecular synthesis

Cytodifferentiation of skeletal muscle has been studied in cell cultures derived from leg muscle of 12-day chicken embryos. Myogenesis in cell culture closely simulates myogenesis in vivo, but is more highly synchronized. Massive cell fusion occurs in control cultures between the second and third days in vitro, during which time most of the myoblasts are swept into syncytia. On successive days, the syncytia mature into cross-striated muscle fibers, and the cultures are progressively overgrown by fibroblastic cells. Myosin-containing cells can be detected at any time by immunofluorescence, and myosin has been measured by quantitative immunological precipitation as early as 3 days in vitro, a few hours after fusion. Myosin in the cultures increases over the next few days, and this is reflected in the rate of incorporation of labeled amino acids into immunologically precipitable myosin. Creatine kinase, assayed spectrophotometrically by linked dehydrogenase reactions, shows a similar pattern: measurable early but rapidly increasing in activity after fusion. That this increase in myosin and creatine kinase is strictly a function of the multinuclear cells is demonstrated by experiments in which the mononuclear cell population has been drastically reduced by treatment with 5-fluorodeoxyuridine shortly after fusion. Myosin synthesis has not been detectable in cells prevented from fusing by growth in 5-bromo-deoxyuridine, but low levels of creatine kinase have been demonstrated. Newly formed muscle fibers incorporate precursors into RNA at lower rates than do mononuclear cells. The relationship of this change in RNA synthesis to the formation of muscle proteins remains obscure.
Political processes in an academic audit: Linking evaluative information to programmatic decisions

This paper discusses the political processes involved in an academic program evaluation. Specifically, the paper focuses on how evaluative information is politically linked to programmatic decisions within the context of various organizational and evaluative utilization models. Data gathered from a program evaluation conducted at a small (N=2,500 students), public, liberal arts university in the Southeast are used in examining the explanatory power of the various theories and models.
Medium-throughput hydrate screening using the Crystal 16™.

Hydrates are known to affect the solubility of compounds to a larger extent compared to polymorphic forms and thus, exposure. In addition, hydrates are more likely to form during most pharmaceutical processes. Therefore discovery of the propensity of compounds to form hydrates at an early stage allows for adequate precautions and sometimes, selection of compounds. A medium-throughput screen using the Crystal 16™ with an accelerated thermal cycle in a mixed solvent system was developed and is described. Nine compounds (seven which form known hydrates and two which do not form hydrates) were tested successfully to demonstrate the utility of the method. A preferred cycle (25°C→40°C→5°C→25°C over 6 h) and solvent system (acetonitrile-water) were identified. The method needs approximately 15–20 mg, in most cases, of the compound and finds applicability in early stages of drug development (late lead-development to early candidate selection).
Feeding Encapsulated Methionine Supplement to Lactating Cows

Abstract Twenty lactating Holstein cows were fed individually and were randomly assigned to 4 treatment groups in a continuous 120-day trial. The study was to determine the effects of methionine supplementation at 12g per day and of feeding methionine supplement more frequently than twice daily. Treatment 2× was twice daily feeding; 2×M, twice daily feeding plus methionine; 4× was 4 feedings daily, and 4×M was 4 feedings daily plus methionine. Average daily fat-corrected milk production, milk fat, milk protein, and ration intake by treatments were: 2×) 19.21kg, 3.49%, 3.56%, 16.42kg; 2×M) 18.22kg, 3.72% 3.49%, 15.59kg; 4×) 17.56kg, 3.60%, 3.41%, 15.11kg; and 4×M) 17.37kg, 3.43%, 3.47%, 13.88kg. Analysis of covariance indicated no significant differences (P
Specific Features and Nature of the 890 nm Photoluminescence Band Detected in SiO x Films after Low-Temperature Annealing

A band with a peak at 890 nm is detected in the photoluminescence spectra of SiO x (x ≈ 1.3) films deposited by thermal evaporation of SiO and annealed in air at 650–1150°C. The 890-nm band appears after low-temperature (∼650°C) annealing and exhibits a number of features: (i) as the annealing temperature is elevated to 1150°C, the position of the band peak remains unchanged, whereas the intensity increases by two orders of magnitude; (ii) the effects of the annealing atmosphere (air, vacuum) and the excitation wavelength and power density on the intensity of the 890-nm band differ from the corresponding effects on the well-known bands observable in the ranges 600–650 and 700–800 nm; and (iii) the photoluminescence decay is first fast and then much slower, with corresponding lifetimes of ∼9 and ∼70 μs. The observed features are inconsistent with the interpretation of photoluminescence observed in SiO x so far. Specifically, the earlier observed photoluminescence was attributed to transitions between the band and defect states in the matrix and between the states of band tails, transitions inside Si nanoclusters, and intraion transitions in rare-earth impurity ions. Therefore, we consider here the possibility of attributing the 890-nm band to transitions in local centers formed by silicon ions twofold- and/or threefold-coordinated with oxygen; i.e., we attempt to interpret the 890-nm band in the same manner as was done for luminescence in SiO2 glasses and films slightly deficient in oxygen.
Infrared diffuse reflectance study of the silicon-rich H-ZSM-5 catalysis of ethanol conversion

Abstract A new infrared diffuse reflectance reactor was used to study the in situ H-ZSM-5 catalyzed conversion of ethanol to high-purity ethylene between ambient temperature and 400 °C. Zeolites having a Si Al atom ratio of 35 to 126 adsorbed ethanol principally on aluminol acid sites, while silicon-rich materials of Si Al greater than 500 adsorbed ethanol on both terminal silanol sites and intracrystalline hydrogen-bonded silanols. The silicon-rich materials demonstrated hydrogen-bonded silanol functionalities in their intracrystalline structures which became prominent as the silicon content increased. A portion of these silanols was removed from the infrared spectrum upon treatment with dilute sodium hydroxide demonstrating their acidity. The in situ infrared data showed that ethanol conversion to ethylene using zeolites of low Si Al ratio utilized aluminum-based Bronsted acid sites while the activity of the silicon-rich materials was based on the hydrogen-bonded silanols.
The extent of memory loss in Korsakoff patients.

Three groups of Ss performed in an STM distractor technique design. The Ss were grouped on the basis of clinical diagnosis as: alcoholic Korsakoff, alcoholic with no brain damage and non-alcoholic with no brain damage. Results showed that the span of retention for Korsakoff patients deteriorated significantly faster than either of the two non-brain-damaged groups for materials consisting of either CCC's, one-word or three-words. Recognition procedures revealed that more of the original trace was present than could be recalled. Finally, it was demonstrated that despite the exceedingly rapid decay rate in STM some material could be transferred and maintained in LTM.
An evaluation of ex situ, industrial-scale, aqueous CO2 mineralization

Abstract It is essential to objectively evaluate the many CO 2 mitigation strategies in order to prioritize investments of capital and research. Aqueous CO 2 mineralization is one potential strategy to permanently sequester CO 2 , without the associated long-term monitoring and liability issues. Investigators are studying and optimizing aqueous CO 2 mineralization for the production of inorganic carbonates and are scaling up some of these processes. This paper adopts a life-cycle approach toward the evaluation of energy requirements and discusses other potential barriers for three CO 2 mineralization pathways: industrial caustics, naturally occurring minerals, and industrial wastes. This analysis is based on CO 2 capture from a 1 GW coal-fired power plant using one of the three mineral mineralization pathways. The investigators utilize consistent system boundaries and process-modeling assumptions, standard engineering calculations to estimate energy requirements, and publicly available data for upstream energy requirements and for the production of products/co-products. The results suggest that some industrial wastes show promise for CO 2 mineralization, but their availability is limited. The other pathways currently have large energy penalties and face other significant barriers, such as the production of large quantities of potentially hazardous waste and large-scale mining.
A four-pass high resolution spectrometer for the near infrared.

A high resolution Littrow type grating spectrometer designed for four-pass operation in the near ir is described. Using 20-cm gratings, four passed in first and second orders, this instrument achieves a spectral resolution between 0.015 cm−1 and 0.025 cm−1 in the 1.9-μ to 3.6-μ region. This resolution is up to 40% better than that realized with the same system double passed.
Enhanced biodegradation of cyclotetramethylenetetranitramine (HMX) under mixed electron-acceptor condition.

Abstract The biodegradation of cyclotetramethylenetetranitramine, commonly known as `high melting explosive' (HMX), under various electron-acceptor conditions was investigated using enrichment cultures developed from the anaerobic digester sludge of Thibodaux sewage treatment plant. The results indicated that the HMX was biodegraded under sulfate reducing, nitrate reducing, fermenting, methanogenic, and mixed electron accepting conditions. However, the rates of degradation varied among the various conditions studied. The fastest removal of HMX (from 22 ppm on day 0 to
Schizencephaly: correlation of clinical findings with MR characteristics.

PURPOSE To correlate clinical outcome with the size and location of clefts in patients with schizencephaly. PATIENTS AND METHODS MR scans and clinical records of 20 patients with schizencephaly were retrospectively reviewed. Seven patients had bilateral clefts (10 open lip clefts, 4 closed lip clefts), eight patients had right-sided unilateral clefts (5 open lip clefts, 3 closed lip clefts), and five patients had left-sided unilateral clefts (3 open lip clefts, 2 closed lip clefts). RESULTS Statistically significant correlations were found as follows: Patients with bilateral schizencephalies had significantly worse intellectual (P = .004) and speech (P = .03) development than those with unilateral clefts; patients with unilateral large or medium open lip schizencephalies had significantly worse motor (P = .003) and intellectual (P = .008) impairment than those with unilateral closed lip or small open-lip schizencephalies; patients with frontal lobe involvement had a significantly higher incidence of motor dysfunction than those without frontal lobe involvement (P = .01). Strong similarities were noted in the patient outcomes and the locations of cortical anomalies of patients with schizencephaly and those with nonschizencephaly focal cortical dysplasias. CONCLUSION A common pathogenetic origin for the formation of focal cortical dysplasia in the form of polymicrogyria and schizencephalies is proposed. Patients with small unilateral schizencephalies have a good developmental prognosis, particularly when the motor cortex is not involved.
Detector-Charge-Coupled Device (CCD) Interface Methods

This article reviews current development and issues in detector-CCD interface methods employed in mosaic focal plane arrays,particularly those designed for the infrared spectrum. The functions of inter-faces, such as signal inputing, impedance matching, signal conditioning, and background suppressing, are discussed along with their compatibility with MOS (metal oxide semiconductor) and cryogenic techniques. An attempt is made in classifying the interface methods into five main categories - monolithic (optical), direct injection, gate modulation, buffered circuit, and preamplified circuit - while a qualitative assess-ment is made of the capability of background suppression for several interfaces. The article concludes by identifying four classes of limitation of the interfaces - architectural, electrical, test and control, and processing - of achieving high sensitivity, wide dynamic range, and large linearity.© (1981) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Use of Treatability Studies in Developing Remediation Strategies for Contaminated Soils

Treatability studies are laboratory or field tests designed to provide critical data needed to evaluate and, ultimately, implement one or more treatment technologies. Remediation of contaminated soils is generally accomplished by using one of the following three types of treatments systems: 1. In Situ 2. Prepared Bed 3. Bioreactor (e.g., slurry reactor, compost unit)
A Cognitive Map of People's Online Risk Perceptions and Attitudes: An Empirical Study

This research studied online risk perceptions under the well known psychometric paradigm. We developed a taxonomy of risks appropriate for e-commerce along with variables to characterize risks and understand risk perceptions. A pilot study with 153 subjects was used to collect data on which factor analysis was conducted to identify online risk dimensions and produce a factor space diagram. This diagram represents a "cognitive map" of people's online risk perceptions and attitudes. Results suggested that subjects distinguish risks using four dimensions: direness of consequences, ability to control or avoid risks, observability/immediacy of risk consequences, and unfamiliarity of risks. A larger study is underway based on the results of the pilot study. The findings of this research study help researchers to understand and predict people's reaction to risks posed by online hazards. In addition, this study attempted to transfer a proven and popular methodology of risk perception research, the psychometric paradigm, to a new domain, e-commerce. Moreover, this study added empirical data regarding online risk perceptions to the existing body of the relevant academic research.
Arsenite alters global histone H3 methylation.

Arsenic (As) is a well-characterized human carcinogen but is generally not mutagenic. The evidence that As induces both loss of global DNA methylation and gene promoter DNA hypermethylation has suggested that epigenetic mechanisms may play an important role in As-induced carcinogenesis. In the present study, we examined the change in histone methylation by As exposure. In human lung carcinoma A549 cells, exposure to inorganic trivalent As (arsenite) increased H3K9 dimethylation (H3K9me2) and decreased H3K27 trimethylation (H3K27me3), both of which represent gene silencing marks, while increasing the global levels of the H3K4 trimethylation (H3K4me3), a gene-activating mark. The increase in H3K9me2 was mediated by an increase in the histone methyltransferase G9a protein and messenger RNA levels. We also observed strikingly significant altered histone modifications induced by very low-dose (0.1 μM) arsenite. Taken together, these results suggest a potential mechanism by which As induces carcinogenesis through the alteration of specific histone methylations that represent both gene silencing and activating marks. Furthermore, these marks are known to affect DNA methylation, and it is likely that arsenic's effect is not limited to histone modifications alone, but extends, perhaps by them, to DNA methylations as well. Future studies in our laboratory will address the genomic location of these silencing and activating marks using ChIP-on-chip technology.
First Report of Bacterial Leaf Blight on Broccoli and Cabbage Caused by Pseudomonas syringae pv. alisalensis in South Carolina.

In May of 2009, leaf spot and leaf blight symptoms were observed on broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) and cabbage (B. oleracea var. capitata) on several farms in Lexington County, the major brassica-growing region of South Carolina. Affected areas ranged from scattered disease foci within fields to entire fields. Initial infection symptoms on leaves of both crops included circular and irregular-shaped necrotic lesions that were 3 to 10 mm in diameter, often with yellow halos and water soaking. As the disease progressed, the lesions tended to coalesce into a general blight of the entire leaf. Diseased leaves from both broccoli and cabbage were collected from each of four fields at different locations in the county. Leaves were surface disinfested, macerated in sterile distilled water, then aliquots of the suspension were spread on King's medium B (KB) agar. All samples produced large numbers of bacterial colonies that fluoresced blue under UV light after 24 h of growth. In total, 23 isolates (13 fr...
Graph-Based Visual Saliency

A new bottom-up visual saliency model, Graph-Based Visual Saliency (GBVS), is proposed. It consists of two steps: first forming activation maps on certain feature channels, and then normalizing them in a way which highlights conspicuity and admits combination with other maps. The model is simple, and biologically plausible insofar as it is naturally parallelized. This model powerfully predicts human fixations on 749 variations of 108 natural images, achieving 98% of the ROC area of a human-based control, whereas the classical algorithms of Itti & Koch ([2], [3], [4]) achieve only 84%.
Geometric Conditions for the Existence of Positive Eigenvalues of Matrices

Abstract Finite-dimensional theorems of Perron-Frobenius type are proved. For A∈ C nn and a nonnegative integer k, we let wk (A) be the cone generated by Ak, Ak+1,…in C nn. We show that A satisfies the Perron-Schaefer condition if and only if the closure W k(A) of wk(A) is a pointed cone. This theorem is closely related to several known results. If k⩾v0(A), the index of the eigenvalue 0 in spec A, we prove that A has a positive eigenvalue if and only if wk(A) is a pointed nonzero cone or, equivalently W k(A) is not a real subspace of C nn. Our proofs are elementary and based on a method of Birkhoff's. We discuss the relation of this method to Pringsheim's theorem.
Polymer-Based Volume Holograms for a Surface-Normal 3×3 Non-Blocking Wavelength-Selective Crossbar

In this paper, we present a 3x3 non-blocking crossbar for network applications. This device is pivotal for the realization for a computer-to-computer interconnect network where both wavelength division multiplexing and space division multiplexing are employed to enhance the transmission bandwidth. We report the formation of a surface -normal wavelength selective non-blocking crossbar using photopolymer-based volume holograms in conjugation with graded index (GRIN) lenses. The elimination of edge-coupling significantly enhances the packaging reliability. Furthermore, such a configuration is compatible with the implementation of vertical cavity surface-emitting lasers where the characteristic of azimuthal symmetry is maintained in the waveguiding substrate. The prototype polymer-based volume hologram for a multiple-wavelength 3x3 crossbar is experimentally demonstrated at 755, 765, and 775 nm. The unique beam routing property of GRIN lens reduced nine wavelengths to three wavelengths while maintaining the required nine (3x3) individual interconnects. Realizing the fact that the wavelength-switching speed of semiconductor lasers is as fast as 1 nsec, we expect to build a fully packaged system with much less system latency.
Impact of Selection of Projects on Pan-Mentoring in Creative Engineering Design

Pan-mentoring, a pedagogical approach to creative engineering design education, establishes a close relationship between the pan-mentor and a design team of students as well as among the individuals within the team. This paper focuses on the impact of the selection (and screening) of design projects on pan-mentoring in creative engineering design. The selected projects should, among others, have good prospects for successful completion, stimulate creativity, and be challenging. This paper will analyze four sources of design projects, namely, faculty projects, industry supported projects, student initiated projects, and projects for design competitions. A project-screening scheme will be discussed. An assessment will be performed on the student selection process. Additional data will be provided to show the impact of the project selection on the students' perception on the design activity. It will also be shown that a well selected project and the application of the pan-mentoring pedagogy can enhance engineering design education and help to prepare students for a fast changing future. This study was performed at two universities.
Emerging Plant Pathogenic Bacteria and Global Warming

Several bacteria, previously classified as non-fluorescent, oxidase positive pseudomonads, Ralstonia, Acidovorax, and Burkholderia have emerged as serious problems worldwide. Perhaps the most destructive is R. solanacearum (RS), a soilborne pathogen with a very wide host range. RS race 3, biovar 2 infects potato and geranium during cooler weather making it an additional threat. Acidovorax avenae subsp. avenae has emerged as a disease of upland rice in Southern Europe during periods of high temperatures and B. gladioli has emerged as a serious pathogen of orchids in Thailand. B. andropogonis has been identified for the first time on jojoba in eastern Australia; the plant grows under very high temperatures and the disease occurs in nursery stock grown under overhead watering. Burkholderia glumae is emerging as a problem on rice in the southern United States and the pathogen has become much more prevalent in southern South Korea during periods of high temperatures. Why the increase in these bacteria? One possible explanation is global warming. A common trait among them is an optimum growth tempera- ture of 32-36°C; most grow well up to 41°C, whereas most other plant patho- genicbacteria grow best at lower temperatures. An increase in extreme weather conditions, including extended heat waves, long periods of rain, and storms such as hurricanes appear to favor these high-temperature bacteria. There has been a gradual increase in the mean global temperature over the past century. Recent summer temperatures in the southern USA. have been 1-2°C higher than that which is optimum for many crops. Evidence is growing that the increase in the occurrence of extreme weather, including heat waves, continual rains, and hurricanes is caused by rising CO 2 levels from expanding world economies. Several heat waves have occurred in Europe and the US in recent years. The year 1995 was the warmest since global records began in 1856, and the 2003 heat wave killed hundreds in Europe. An increase in violent and extreme summer storms has occurred the past several years. Ice core studies, photographic recordings of retreating glaciers, and recorded temperatures provide solid evidence that global warming is occurring at
Glucocorticoid inhibition of human SP-A1 promoter activity in NCI-H441 cells

Glucocorticoids have complex effects on human surfactant protein (SP) SP-A1 and SP-A2 gene expression that occur at both transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. In the lung adenocarcinoma cell line NCI-H441, dexamethasone causes a dose-dependent decrease in total SP-A mRNA levels and inhibits SP-A gene transcription. In this study, a deletional analysis of the SP-A1 promoter was performed in order to identify cis-acting elements that mediate dexamethasone responsiveness in NCI-H441 cells. The region -32/+63 relative to the start of SP-A1 transcription mediated both basal promoter activity and dexamethasone repression of transcription. Removal of the region +18/+63 abolished dexamethasone responsiveness, indicating that sequences within this region are necessary for the inhibitory effect. Furthermore, the region -32/+63 formed a sequence-specific DNA-protein complex with NCI-H441 nuclear extract. This DNA-protein complex was induced by dexamethasone exposure and its formation was mediated partially by sequences within the region +26/+63.
Control systems for human running using an inverted pendulum model and a reference motion capture sequence

Physical simulation is often proposed as a way to generate motion for interactive characters. A simulated character has the potential to adapt to changing terrain and disturbances in a realistic and robust manner. In this paper, we present a balancing control algorithm based on a simplified dynamic model, an inverted pendulum on a cart. The simplified model lacks the degrees of freedom found in a full human model, so we analyze a captured reference motion in a preprocessing step and use that information about human running patterns to supplement the balance algorithms provided by the inverted pendulum controller. At run-time, the controller plans a desired motion at every frame based on the current estimate of the pendulum state and a predicted pendulum trajectory. By tracking this time-varying trajectory, our controller creates a running character that dynamically balances, changes speed and makes turns. The initial controller can be optimized to further improve the motion quality with an objective function that minimizes the difference between a planned desired motion and a simulated motion. We demonstrate the power of this approach by generating running motions at a variety of speeds (3 m/s to 5m/s), following a curved path, and in the presence of disturbance forces and a skipping motion.
Clinical Profile of Apparently Healthy Neonates With In Utero Drug Exposure

Objective To identify the characteristics of neonates exposed to drugs in utero but admitted to the normal newborn nursery because of apparent good health. Design Retrospective evaluation with chart review of toxicology screening tests sent from a normal newborn nursery. Setting Newborn service in an urban hospital. Participants Fifty newborns with positive drug screening results. Main outcomes Frequency of positive results and assessment of demographic features and neonates' clinical features. Results 43 (86%) of the apparently healthy newborns tested positive for cocaine. The results of simultaneous or proximate drug testing of mothers and their newborns were discordant in 11 (22%) cases. Conclusions Neonates with in utero drug exposure often are born with few or no signs of abnormality and are admitted to the normal newborn nursery.
Invertebrates of the Salton Sea: a scanning electron microscopy portfolio

Scanning electron microphotographs of 16 Salton Sea invertebrate species are presented within this portfolio. A wide spectrum of invertebrates was investigated including foraminiferans, a flatworm, a rotifer, annelids, crustaceans and insects. Additional information is provided on the morphology and function of structures visible in the images.
Bio-Inspired Wind Energy Harvester

Engineers and designers often mimic mechanisms found in nature to accomplish a specific task. This concept was applied to wind power generation to simplify and reduce cost of the HAWT design. The advantage of the flapping wing design lies in the additional power generated by leading edge vortices. It has previously been demonstrated by others that a flapping wing section undergoing simultaneous, coordinated heaving and pitching is capable of extracting energy from an oncoming flow using the CFD code FLUENT. The encouraging results suggest that efficiencies as high as 36.3% are achievable with such a system with the strongest influence on efficiency being reduced heaving amplitude, H/c, pitching amplitude, θ, and reduced frequency, f*. The suggested values of these motion parameters for optimal performance was found to be H/c≈1, θ≈73°, and f*≈0.15. Hence, an adjustable flapping wing energy extraction device was designed in accordance with these parameters. Preliminary testing has demonstrated the effective operation of the device over a range of Reynolds numbers in a wind tunnel.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Diagnosis and treatment of interstitial cystitis in adolescents

Interstitial cystitis (IC), or painful bladder syndrome, is characterized by irritative voiding symptoms and can be a challenging problem that affects children and adolescents. Diagnosis and management in children and adolescents is challenging because of strict diagnostic criteria and the paucity of investigations focusing on this age group, which often can lead to delayed or missed diagnosis. Clinical features suggestive of IC include bladder pain, urgency, frequency, nocturia, and pressure. Symptoms may wax and wane and often are exacerbated by menstruation, intercourse, dietary triggers, and stress. Diagnosis can be made by history, physical exam findings such as suprapubic tenderness, voiding diaries, and exclusion of other etiologies. Some diagnostic tests such as the potassium sensitivity test and cystoscopy are invasive and often impractical in younger patients. Treatment of IC consists of a multimodal approach that should be tailored to the individual needs of the patient. Therapies for younger patients include oral medication, intravesical therapy, cystoscopy with hydrodistention, and conservative measures such as dietary modification. This review of the literature focuses on diagnosing IC in younger patients and on what treatment modalities are appropriate and effective for this age group.
Effects of Cutouts on the Dynamic Response of Curved Rectangular Composite Panels

Numerical results obtained by the finite-element method were compared with experimental results obtained by holographic interferometry to quantify the effects of cutout size and orientation on the first five natural frequencies and mode shapes of a curved Gr-Ep panel. The clamped-clamped panels had a quasi-isotropic layup [0, - 45, 45, 90]s and measured 12 in. (30.48 cm) high with a 12-in. (30.48-cm) chord. Cutouts having dimensions of 2 x 2 in. (5.08 x 5.08 cm), 2x4 in. (5.08 x 10.16 cm) and 4 x 4 in. (10.16 X 10.16 cm) were centrally located in the panels. The effects of the orientation of the 2x4 in. (5.08 x 10.16 cm) cutout were studied. When the finite-element results were compared with the time-averaged holograms, the two techniques showed close correlation of both the natural frequencies and mode shapes. Increasing the cutout size resulted in the expected reduction in natural frequency. An unexpected mode switch was observed to occur in the first two modes as more material was removed from the panel. It was found that the 0-deg cutout orientation had a significant effect on the panel stiffness, whereas the other cutout orientations did not significantly effect the stiffness. Nomenclature El == Young's modulus in longitudinal fiber direction E2 = Young's modulus in the transverse fiber direction Gn = shear modulus Keq - equivalent spring stiffness m - mass t = panel thickness *>12, *>2i = Poisson's ratios p = mass density QJ = frequency
Basolateral Amygdala Neurons Encode Cocaine Self-Administration and Cocaine-Associated Cues

Electrophysiological recording procedures were used to examine basolateral amygdala (BLA) cell firing during cocaine self-administration and relative to response-independent presentations of cocaine-associated stimuli. Of 72 neurons (n = 10 rats), 31 cells (43%) were classified as phasically active, exhibiting one of three types of patterned discharges relative to the drug-reinforced response, similar to that previously described for nucleus accumbens (Acb) neurons (Carelli, 2002). Briefly, neurons exhibited increased firing rates within seconds preceding the response [termed preresponse (PR)], increased activity within seconds after the response [termed reinforcement excitation (RFe)] or an inhibition in cell firing before and/or after the response for intravenous cocaine [termed reinforcement inhibition (RFi)]. To examine the responsiveness of these same neurons to cocaine-associated stimuli, the stimulus "probe" procedure was used. Specifically, probe trials (18-20) were presented in which the audiovisual (tone-house light) stimulus associated with intravenous cocaine delivery during self-administration was randomly presented by the computer, interspersed between reinforced lever press responses. Neurons classified as type PR or type RFi were not activated by the stimulus. In contrast, neurons that exhibited increased firing immediately after the response (type RFe neurons) were significantly activated by the audiovisual cue. These findings are discussed with respect to the role of the BLA in cocaine addiction as well as previous studies characterizing Acb cell firing during cocaine self-administration.
Enabling Physical Crowdsourcing On-the-Go with Context-Sensitive Notifications

This paper introduces the idea of presenting physical tasks into people’s existing routine so that people can contribute small tasks on-the-go with minimal effort . We present two on-the-go crowdsourcing systems: Libero for package delivery, and CrowdFound for finding lost items. To encourage contributions, we introduce notification techniques that present task opportunities when potential helpers are likely to accept. To direct people to regions where help is most needed, we introduce techniques for tracking a person’s location within a task region and directing their attention based on task history. Evaluation studies demonstrate the feasibility of on-the-go crowdsourcing and investigate questions over the likelihood of task completion, the perceived cost of disruption, and the effectiveness of tracking and coordination.
A Pseudo ∈-Approximate Algorithm For Feedback Vertex Set

While the picture of approximation complexity class becomes clear for most combinatorial optimization problems, it remains an open question whether Feedback Vertex Set can be approximated within a constant ratio in directed graph case. In this paper we present an approximation algorithm with performance bound L max −1, where L max is the largest length of essential cycles in the graph G(V,E). The worst case bound is \(\left\lfloor {\sqrt {{{\left| V \right|}^2} - \left| V \right| - \left| E \right| + 1} } \right\rfloor \) which, in general, is inferior to Seymour’s recent result [14], but becomes a small constant for some graphs. Furthermore, we prove the so-called pseudo ∈-approximate property, i.e. FVS can be divided into a class of disjoint NP -complete subproblems, and our heuristic becomes ∈-approximate for each one of these subproblems.
Evaluation of Shielded Syringe Carriers for Transporting Radioactive Doses

We evaluated four commercially available lead-lined syringe carriers typically used for transportation of radiopharmaceutical unit doses to determine their ability to safely contain radioactivity. The United States Department of Transportation (DOT) “performance criteria” were utilized as parameters to judge relative effectiveness. However, because specific design assessments are left to the user’s discretion, we tested all four syringe carriers for: weight and thickness of lead; efficacy in attenuating radiation emitted from the most commonly shipped radiopharmaceuticals; effectiveness in prevention of leakage from the enclosed syringe; and compliance with DOT regulations. One syringe carrier model was found to safely contain radioactive emissions from both high- and low- energy radionuclides; while a second model was shown to provide adequate containment only when used for lower energy radionuclides (e.g., technetium products). Two other models were evaluated as less effective in several parameters including containment of fluids.
Insecticidal Properties of Several Monoterpenoids to the House Fly (Diptera: Muscidae), Red Flour Beetle (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae), and Southern Corn Rootworm (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)

House flies, Musca domestica (L.), and their eggs were treated with 22 monoterpenoids to determine the topical, fumigant, and ovicidal activity of each compound. Fumigant activity of 14 monoterpenoids were examined further using red flour beetles, Tribolium castaneum (Herbst). Third-instar southern corn rootworm, Diabrotica undecimpunctata howardi Barber, were treated with carvacrol, citral, citronellal, menthol, pulegone, verbenol, and verbenone to determine their activity on larvae. Structure-activity relationships were evaluated with the toxicity data. We made comparisons between monocyclic aromatic, acyclic aliphatic, monocyclic aliphatic, and bicyclic aliphatic alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, and acids to determine toxicity differences involving the skeletal structure, amount of saturation, and associated functional groups of monoterapenoids. Ketones were more effective than alcohols in the topical, fumigant (T. castaneum), and ovicidal bioassays and less toxic than an analogous aldehyde in the topical, fumigant (M. domestica), and ovicidal bioassays. Aldehydes were more toxic than alcohols in the topical and fumigant (M. domestica) bioassays. In the topical and ovicidal bioassays, aromatic or acyclic alcohols, or both, were more effective than monocyclic and bicyclic alcohols. Vapors of bicyclic ketones were more toxic than monocyclic ketones to adult M. domestica. Monoterpenoid alcohols containing three carbon-carbon double bonds were more effective than saturated alcohols in the topical and larval bioassays. A mono-unsaturated ketone was more toxic than a structurally similar saturated ketone and two di-unsaturated ketones when it was applied topically to adult M. domestica. A saturated monocyclic ketone inhibited egg hatch more effectively than unsaturated monocyclic ketones.
Pyramidal Sections in Taxicab Geometry

The formula for the Eucidean distance between two points in the plane leads, early in the study of analytic geometry, to the definitions of the classical conic sections-the circle, ellipse, and hyperbola-in terms of distances to fixed points. Additionally, the parabola can be defined in terms of distances to a fixed point and a fixed line. After modest additional study in the area, the student becomes aware that the ellipse and hyperbola have comparable " point-line" definitions. It is this point-line approach to the conic sections I wish to pursue here-not in the context of Eucidean distance but using, instead, the taxicab metric defined in the coordinate plane by
Interaction of Mulch and Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. tenebrionis on Colorado Potato Beetle (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) Populations and Damage in Potato

The use of straw mulch and no-mulch, a synthetic pyrethroid (esfenvalerate, Asana XL) and a bioinsecticide, Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. tenebrionis , were compared for their main and interactive effects on Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say), populations in potato, Solanum tuberosum L. Numbers of Colorado potato beetle adults and egg masses were not significantly different in mulch versus no-mulch plots. There were fewer adults and egg masses in Asana-treated plots than in plots treated with B. thuringiensis (Mtrak) or the control (untreated). Significantly fewer small (1st and 2nd instars) and large (3rd and 4th instars) larvae were recorded in mulch treatments than in no-mulch treatments, and significantly fewer small and large larvae in Asana-treated plots compared with M-trak or untreated plots. However, the M-trak plots had significantly fewer large larvae than the untreated plots. Defoliation levels were significantly greater in no-mulch plots than mulch plots. Defoliation levels were significantly lower in Asana plots compared with M-trak or untreated plots. There was a significant interaction between mulch plus M-trak. This combination had numbers of large larvae, defoliation levels and yields as low as the Asana treatment. M-trak had its greatest effect on 1st instars and neonates, and did not affect natural enemies.
Experience with Pyeloureterostomy Associated with Simple Ligation of Native Ureter without Ipsilateral Nephrectomy in Renal Transplantation

AbstractUreteroneocystostomy was used as the primary method of urinary tract reconstruction in 282 allograft renal transplants at our center since 1965. A nonrefluxing anastomosis was incorporated whenever possible. Seven patients who suffered major urological complications involving the ureteroneocystostomy required pyeloureterostomy as the method of repair using the patient’s distal native ureter. No ipsilateral nephrectomy was performed and simple ligation of the native ureter with nonabsorbable suture was accomplished. Of the 7 patients 3 suffered hydronephrosis of the native kidney. None of these patients had signs or symptoms secondary to acute and chronic ureteral occlusion. Our experience suggests that intentional ligation of the native ureter during pyeloureterostomy does not result in increased morbidity to the transplant patient, and that the need for ipsilateral nephrectomy with its own added morbidity may not be necessary.
The potential role of community-based registries to complement the limited applicability of clinical trial results to the community setting: heart failure as an example.

Background Clinical trials do not represent community settings, making widespread implementation of evidence-based medicine problematic. New heart failure treatments are an example, as results comparable to those of clinical trials have not been observed in the community. Alternatives to clinical trials could provide useful complementary information. Objectives and methods To review the clinical trials and community experiences in heart failure management by searching Pubmed with key words "observational studies," "clinical trials," and "heart failure," to present the preliminary results of a community-based heart failure registry as a complementary database, and to assess the potential value and limitations of the registry approach. Results Recent advances in the treatment of heart failure led to guidelines using clinical trial evidence as the rationale for transferring newer therapeutic technologies to the community practice setting. Implementation of such guidelines is slow, reflecting concerns over applicability of clinical trial results to the community setting. A community-based registry of beta-blocker treatment for heart failure showed outcomes comparable to those of clinical trials, despite significant differences between physicians and their patients in these settings. Conclusion Registries can complement clinical trials to expedite technology transfer to the community setting.
Integrating Virtue into the Jesuit Business School Curriculum

The article addresses the question of how to reconcile ethically responsible behavior with the bottom line in a distinctly Jesuit way. The authors argue that Jesuit business schools should foster the development of individual students' habits of virtue, showing clearly how these habits are connected to personal beliefs, business beliefs, and business performance. The article introduces the Magis Method for incorporating virtue into the curriculum.
The Incidence and Characteristics of Peritonitis in the Fourth Year of a Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis Program

This paper reports the frequency and characteristics of peritonitis and exit-tunnel infections in the fourth year of a continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis program. These findings are compared...
Feeding Ecology of Dolphinfish in the Western Gulf of Mexico

AbstractDolphinfish Coryphaena hippurus support important commercial and recreational fisheries in the Gulf of Mexico. Understanding the feeding ecology of this economically important pelagic fish is key to its sustainable management; however, dietary data from this region are sparse. We conducted a comprehensive diet study to develop new trophic baselines and investigate potential ontogenetic and sex-related shifts in Dolphinfish feeding ecology. The stomach contents of 357 Dolphinfish (27.6–148.5 cm TL) were visually examined from fishery-dependent sources off Port Aransas, Texas. Our analyses revealed a highly piscivorous diet with Actinopterygii comprising 70.44% of the stomach contents by number. The most commonly observed taxa were carangid (12.45%N) and tetraodontiform (12.08%N; families Balistidae, Monacanthidae, and Tetraodontidae) fishes. Malacostracans were also common (24.83%N), mostly in the form of pelagic megalopae. Other prey categories included squid and the critically endangered Kemp’s R...
Obp56h Modulates Mating Behavior in Drosophila melanogaster

Social interactions in insects are driven by conspecific chemical signals that are detected via olfactory and gustatory neurons. Odorant binding proteins (Obps) transport volatile odorants to chemosensory receptors, but their effects on behaviors remain poorly characterized. Here, we report that RNAi knockdown of Obp56h gene expression in Drosophila melanogaster enhances mating behavior by reducing courtship latency. The change in mating behavior that results from inhibition of Obp56h expression is accompanied by significant alterations in cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) composition, including reduction in 5-tricosene (5-T), an inhibitory sex pheromone produced by males that increases copulation latency during courtship. Whole genome RNA sequencing confirms that expression of Obp56h is virtually abolished in Drosophila heads. Inhibition of Obp56h expression also affects expression of other chemoreception genes, including upregulation of lush in both sexes and Obp83ef in females, and reduction in expression of Obp19b and Or19b in males. In addition, several genes associated with lipid metabolism, which underlies the production of cuticular hydrocarbons, show altered transcript abundances. Our data show that modulation of mating behavior through reduction of Obp56h is accompanied by altered cuticular hydrocarbon profiles and implicate 5-T as a possible ligand for Obp56h.