cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Multimodal Biometric Authentication for VR/AR using EEG and Eye Tracking

Electroencephalogram (EEG) signals can enable an additional non-intrusive input modality especially when paired with a wearable headset (i.e. AR/VR). A great challenge in using EEG data for Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) algorithms is its poor generalization performance across users. Taking advantage of these inter-user differences, we investigate the potential in using this technology for user authentication – similar to facial recognition in smartphones. Additionally, we evaluate this in combination with eye tracking data which is also readily available in such headsets. We develop a biometric authentication systems for each of these systems and for their fusion. We formulate a novel evaluation paradigm using publicly available EEG motor imagery and eye tracking data and demonstrate strong feasibility towards using EEG and eye tracking for authentication.
Void reduction in fused filament fabrication (FFF) through in situ nozzle-integrated compression rolling of deposited filaments

The rastering of discrete polymer filaments during Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) results in the formation of voids between filaments, leading to poor properties and performance of the printed pa...
Use of Antimicrobial-Coated Catheters in Preventing Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections and Bacteriuria: A Meta-Analysis for Clinicians

AbstractIntroduction:Catheter-associated urinary tract infections comprise a significant burden to the health care system and are of major concern for indwelling catheter use. Catheter coatings hav...
Teaching objects in context

Although there are many practical and pedagogical reasons for teaching objectsfirst in the CS I course, this approach can be difficult for both students and instructors. Students in the introductory class are not ready to design and develop applications that are complex enough to highlight the benefits of object orientation, and it is difficult for instructors to motivate the use of objects for simple programming tasks. The authors have designed a set of programming assignments that address these concerns. In these assignments, students declare fields and implement method bodies for one or more classes that integrate with instructor-provided code to produce a (relatively) complex application. As a result, the applications produced can be graphical and engaging, and can expose students to areas of computer science beyond programming.
Isolation of Cell Envelopes and Naturally Released Membrane Vesicles of Neisseria gonorrhoeae

Neisseria gonorrhoeae (GC) is a strict human pathogen and the agent of the sexually transmitted disease gonorrhea. Gonococcal infections have been successfully treated with antibiotics; however, GC has repeatedly developed resistance to each new antibiotic used. Currently, third-generation cephalosporins are recommended, and resistance to these antimicrobials is emerging worldwide. Additionally, no vaccine is available to prevent GC infections. With the dire possibility of untreatable gonorrhea, there is a critical need to identify new therapeutic targets. Cell envelope and membrane vesicle proteins are key factors in pathogenesis, antibiotic resistance, biofilm formation, and general bacterial fitness. Here we describe methods for isolation and purification of GC cell envelopes and spontaneously released membrane vesicles. The isolated proteome fractions can be used in multiple downstream applications, including gel-based and gel-free quantitative proteomics, studies focused on subcellular localization of proteins, transmission electron microscopy, or strain characterization. Presented methods may be easily adapted to other bacterial species.
A World of Babies: Imagined Childcare Guides for Eight Societies

Should babies sleep alone in cribs, or in bed with parents? Is talking to babies useful, or a waste of time? A World of Babies provides different answers to these and countless other childrearing questions, precisely because diverse communities around the world hold drastically different beliefs about parenting. While celebrating that diversity, the book also explores the challenges that poverty, globalization and violence pose for parents. Fully updated for the twenty-first century, this edition features a new introduction and eight new or revised case studies that directly address contemporary parenting challenges, from China and Peru to Israel and the West Bank. Written as imagined advice manuals to parents, the creative format of this book brings alive a rich body of knowledge that highlights many models of baby-rearing - each shaped by deeply held values and widely varying cultural contexts. Parenthood may never again seem a matter of 'common sense'.
Optimal Exclusive Dealing Through a Distribution Channel in Auctions with Stochastic Bidder Participation

This paper endogenizes exclusive dealing through a distribution channel in auction markets. In particular, it is demonstrated that a seller prefers to exclude final consumers and sell only to re-sellers when these resellers can gain access, at a cost, to a sufficiently bigger market than the seller himself. The intuition behind this result is that the re-sellers can recoup their expenses for marketing the item by re-selling it to the final consumers. If some of the consumers participate in the first auction and are outbid by the resellers, this is an indication that their values for the item are relatively low. Outbidding part of their customer base is 'bad news' for the resellers, and this depresses their bids when final consumers compete with them. The socially optimal and revenue maximizing choices of auction format may not coincide. It is possible that restricting participation of consumers is socially optimal but privately sub-optimal and vice-versa. The results of this paper suggest that (i) the exclusion of final consumers in some auctions may not be driven by transaction costs considerations, and (ii) sellers should not necessarily sell directly to consumers even though new technologies, such as electronic/ Internet trading, allow them to do so at essentially zero cost.
Sex-limited expression of gene Loci controlling flagellar membrane agglutination in the chlamydomonas mating reaction.

Mutant strains of Chlamydomonas reinhardi that have lost their ability to undergo sexual agglutination via their flagellar tips have been induced to undergo zygotic cell fusion and meiosis, using a flagellar-directed antiserum. Genetic analysis of antiserum-mediated crosses involving five nonagglutinating mt+ mutant strains reveals the following: (1) None of the mutations is linked to the mt locus. (2) All of the mutations are "sex-limited," meaning that they can be carried and transmitted by, but not expressed in, mt- cells. (3) Four of the mutations (imp-2, imp-5, imp-6, imp-7) are either allelic or closely linked to one another, with imp-8 defining a second locus.
De Clérambault syndrome (erotomania) in the criminal justice system: another look at this recurring problem.

While de Clerambault syndrome (erotomania) has long been a subject of scientific study, it has only recently become a frequent topic of media attention. A series of five individuals who were arrested for crimes related to their erotomanic delusion are presented. The psychiatric findings from this sample have potential social policy implication.
A review on direct methanol fuel cells–In the perspective of energy and sustainability

The direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) enables the direct conversion of the chemical energy stored in liquid methanol fuel to electrical energy, with water and carbon dioxide as by-products. Compared to the more well-known hydrogen fueled polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (H 2 -PEMFCs), DMFCs present several intriguing advantages as well as a number of challenges. This review examines the technological, environmental, and policy aspects of direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs). The DMFC enables the direct conversion of the chemical energy stored in liquid methanol fuel to electrical energy, with water and carbon dioxide as byproducts. Compared to the more well-known hydrogen fueled PEMFCs, DMFCs present several intriguing advantages as well as a number of challenges. Factors impeding DMFC commercialization include the typically lower efficiency and power density, as well as the higher cost of DMFCs compared to H 2 -based fuel cells. Because of these issues, it is likely that DMFC technology will first be commercialized for small portable power applications (e.g., the displacement of batteries in consumer electronic applications), where the shorter product lifetimes (∼ 1–2 yrs for a battery versus 8–15 yrs for a car) and the much higher price points (∼ $10/W for a laptop battery vs. ∼ $0.05/W for a vehicle engine) provide a more attractive entry point. While such applications are not likely to significantly impact the global energy sustainability picture, they provide an important initial market for fuel cell technology. As such, in this review, we provide an overview of recent research and the challenges to the development of DMFCs for both the portable (shorter-term) and transport (longer-term) sectors.
Distal radioulnar joint reaction force following ulnar shortening: Diaphyseal osteotomy versus wafer resection

Purpose To compare how ulnar diaphyseal shortening and wafer resection affect distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) joint reaction force (JRF) using a nondestructive method of measurement. Our hypothesis was that ulnar shortening osteotomy would increase DRUJ JRF more than wafer resection. Methods Eight fresh-frozen human cadaveric upper limbs were obtained. Under fluoroscopic guidance, a threaded pin was inserted into the lateral radius orthogonal to the DRUJ and a second pin was placed in the medial ulna coaxial to the radial pin. Each limb was mounted onto a mechanical tensile testing machine and a distracting force was applied across the DRUJ while force and displacement were simultaneously measured. Data sets were entered into a computer and a polynomial was generated and solved to determine the JRF. This process was repeated after ulnar diaphyseal osteotomy, ulnar re-lengthening, and ulnar wafer resection. The JRF was compared among the 4 conditions. Results Average baseline DRUJ JRF for the 8 arms increased significantly after diaphyseal ulnar shortening osteotomy (7.2 vs 10.3 N). Average JRF after re-lengthening the ulna and wafer resection was 6.9 and 6.7 N, respectively. There were no differences in JRF among baseline, re-lengthened, and wafer resection conditions. Conclusions Distal radioulnar joint JRF increased significantly after ulnar diaphyseal shortening osteotomy and did not increase after ulnar wafer resection. Clinical relevance Diaphyseal ulnar shortening osteotomy increases DRUJ JRF, which may lead to DRUJ arthrosis.
Rational Therapy of Eating Disorders

Pharmacological treatments are one of several strategies used in the treatment of anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. Many studies have found that antidepressants are effective in the treatment of bulimia nervosa and these drugs represent a mainstay of treatment for these patients. Over the past several years, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors have become perhaps the most commonly used class of drugs. A variety of medications have been investigated for anorexia nervosa, but there is little consistent evidence that medications are effective. In both these illnesses it is important to diagnose and treat any comorbid conditions including mood and anxiety disorders; this may involve the administration of other medications, including anxiolytics such as benzodiazepines or buspirone or mood stabilising agents such as lithium, valproic acid (valproate sodium) or carbamazepine.
Effects of early inhaled epoprostenol therapy on pulmonary artery pressure and blood loss during LVAD placement.

Objective Several strategies have been used to reduce the incidence of right ventricular failure after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) placement, including pulmonary vasodilation. The inhaled prostacyclin, epoprostenol, selectively dilates the pulmonary vasculature of ventilated areas of the lung, but also has been shown to inhibit platelet aggregation.1 The authors evaluated the impact of early initiation of epoprostenol administration during LVAD placement on pulmonary artery pressures, use of vasoactive drugs, and blood loss. Design Retrospective data review. Setting Single center, university hospital. Participants A total of 37 consecutive patients undergoing LVAD (HeartMate II) placement were included. Interventions In the first group of 23 patients (group 1), inhaled epoprostenol was not initiated until weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). In a subsequent group of 14 patients (group 2), inhaled epoprostenol was started shortly after induction of anesthesia and continued throughout and post-CPB. Measurements Mean and systolic pulmonary artery pressures (mPAP, sPAP), vasoactive drugs, as well as hemodynamic parameters, blood loss, and use of blood products were recorded at the following time points: Baseline (BL), pre-CPB, post-CPB, and during postoperative days (POD) 0, 1, and 2. Data are presented as mean±SD or median [25%, 75%]. Results Groups did not differ in demographic characteristics and comorbidities. BL sPAP (41±13 v 46±15 mmHg; p = 0.051) and mPAP (32±8 v 34±8 mmHg; p = 0.483) values were not different between the groups. Systolic and mPAP in group 1 were significantly lower in the postoperative period compared with BL (sPAP on POD 0: 34±6 mmHg; p Conclusions Inhaled prostacyclin reduces sPAP and mPAP in the postoperative period after LVAD placement regardless of the timing of initiation. Early initiation seems to reduce sPAP as well as mPAP more effectively during the weaning process from CPB. However, early initiation is associated with an increased blood loss in the immediate postoperative period. The concept of preventively “bathing” the lung in prostacyclin should be evaluated critically in a prospective fashion to adequately examine this question.
Lateral clavicle fractures.

THE PATIENT A 41-year-old, right hand–dominant, active man presents for treatment of a right shoulder injury after a motor vehicle crash. Evaluation in the emergency room identifies slight swelling, no ecchymosis, no skin tenting, tenderness over the lateral one third of the right clavicle, neurovascular examination within normal limits, and limitation of shoulder motion resulting from pain. Radiographs of the shoulder and clavicle reveal a fracture of the clavicle between the conoid and trapezoid ligaments with 14-mm superior displacement (Neer type IIB). The patient is placed in a sling and referred to follow up with you. He presents 1 week after the injury inquiring about surgery. He states he plays racquetball on the weekends and wonders about the long-term consequences of the injury.
Neurokinin Induced Inositol Phosphate Production in Guinea Pig Bladder

ABSTRACTPurpose: To examine second messenger pathways involved in neurokinin induced bladder contractions.Materials and Methods: Neurokinin induced changes in inositol phosphate production and in adenylyl cyclase activity are measured in the guinea pig bladder.Results: Substance P, substance P methyl ester, neurokinin A, and neurokinin B each increase [sup 3 H]-inositol phosphate production in the guinea pig bladder. Substance P (10 sup -6 M) increases [sup 3 H]-inositol trisphosphate levels within 30 sec. Substance P and neurokinin A have an additive effect on inositol phosphate production, however substance P (10 sup -5 M) or neurokinin A (10 sup -5 M) induced inositol phosphate production is less than that induced by carbachol (10 sup -5 M). Neurokinin B and to a lesser extent neurokinin A inhibit forskolin-activated adenylyl cyclase activity.Conclusions: These data are compatible with neurokinin-induced inositol phosphate production being coupled to increases in contractile force of the guinea pig uri...
Assessing semantic coherence in conditional probability estimates

Semantic coherence is a higher-order coherence benchmark that assesses whether a constellation of estimates—P(A), P(B), P(B | A), and P(A | B)—maps onto the relationship between sets implied by the description of a given problem. We present an automated method for evaluating semantic coherence in conditional probability estimates that efficiently reduces a large problem space into five meaningful patterns: identical sets, subsets, mutually exclusive sets, overlapping sets, and independent sets. It also identifies three theoretically interesting nonfallacious errors. We discuss unique issues in evaluating semantic coherence in conditional probabilities that are not present in joint probability judgments, such as errors resulting from dividing by zero and the use of a tolerance parameter to manage rounding errors. A spreadsheet implementing the methods described above can be downloaded as a supplement from www.springerlink.com.
Local volatility dynamic models

This paper is concerned with the characterization of arbitrage-free dynamic stochastic models for the equity markets when Ito stochastic differential equations are used to model the dynamics of a set of basic instruments including, but not limited to, the underliers. We study these market models in the framework of the HJM philosophy originally articulated for Treasury bond markets. The main thrust of the paper is to characterize absence of arbitrage by a drift condition and a spot consistency condition for the coefficients of the local volatility dynamics.
Comparative Evaluation of Mask Production CAR Development Process with Stepwise Defect Inspection

Chemically amplified resist (CAR) provides superior lithographic performance compared to traditional e-beam resists in production maskmaking. Parameters benefiting the most are contrast, resolution, and sensitivity. In spite of CAR's advantages, defect control and tighter 50KeV e-beam CAR process restrictions are significantly more critical thanks to smaller geometries, tighter CD specifications, and optical proximity correction (OPC) for 90nm node mask technology. Among defect root causes, resist development is considered to be the one of the most important steps because post-development residue can generate printable defects on finished masks. We investigated the CAR development process across different resist development methods, such as binary and fan-type nozzle spin spray, and puddle development. Several high density binary and embedded-attenuated phase shift masks (EAPSMs) with 70% clear area in the main pattern field were evaluated in an effort to identify and contain post-develop defects in a typical mask production flow. Development step process residue was examined at the after-develop inspection (ADI) step and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used for individual defect review. The KLA-Tencor SLF77 TeraStar inspection tool was used to inspect patterns after the development, Cr/MoSiON layer dry etch, and clean steps. The effectiveness of the various CAR development methods has been also studied following development, dry etch, and cleaning inspection by using identical binary and EAPSM masks from production. The mechanism and defect source during the stepwise process and inspections were scrutinized and discussed. Experimental results showed that stepwise process inspection was effective in identifying defects and their sources to prevent defects, and in optimizing each process step. It was found that CAR development and dry etch processes are the most important process steps to control defects in CAR-based mask production. Suggested optimized develop process parameters for 90nm-node mask
Infliximab for managing steroid-refractory acute graft-versus-host disease.

Infliximab has demonstrated activity in the treatment of steroid-refractory acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD). We aimed to confirm the effectiveness of infliximab as a salvage therapy for steroid-refractory aGVHD. In a series of 52 patients, 71% of whom had grade III-IV aGVHD, only 15% achieved complete remission (CR) with the use of infliximab alone as salvage therapy. CR of aGVHD differed according to overall aGVHD grade at salvage (grade II, 5/15; grade III, 2/17; grade IV, 1/20; P=.03). Median overall survival (OS) was only 1.7 months (95% confidence interval [CI]=0.99 to 2.3 months). CR of aGVHD was significantly associated with OS, with a hazard ratio of 8.4 for death in those without CR (95% CI=3.6 to 19.6; P
The behavior of temperature-sensitive T4 DNA polymerase mutants in temperature shift experiments.

Abstract Temperature-sensitive mutants of gene 43 of bacteriophage T4 produce either temperature-stable or temperature-labile DNA polymerases. Molecules produced under restrictive conditions can be activated in the presence of chloramphenicol by exposure to a permissive temperature to yield proteins which behave similarly at low temperature to those enzymes actually synthesized at the low temperature.
OXYGEN-STABLE HEMOLYSINS OF GROUP A STREPTOCOCCI I. THE ROLE OF VARIOUS AGENTS IN THE PRODUCTION OF THE HEMOLYSINS

The production of oxygen-stable hemolysin in growing and resting Group A streptococci has been induced by RNA, by detergents, and by mammalian blood serum proteins, in the presence of glucose, Mg++, and cysteine. Of the serum proteins, albumin and α lipoprotein could act as inducers. In the case of both these serum proteins treatment with trypsin did not affect the capacity to induce hemolysin production, but removal of the bound lipids by alcohol-ether or chloroform-methanol destroyed this property. In comparisons of the conditions of production and of activity between the hemolysin produced by RNA on one hand and albumin and detergents on the other, some data indicated similarities among the hemolysins, and others, differences. The similarities included similar degrees of temperature dependence for production and equal degrees of inhibition by serum β lipoprotein. Differences found among these hemolysins included differences between, the rate of production of the RNA hemolysin from that of albumin or detergent hemolysin by both resting and growing streptococci, and the failure of utilization of glucosamine as an energy source for the production of albumin hemolysin, in contrast with that of RNA hemolysin. The fact that the data have in some cases indicated similarities and in other cases differences among the hemolysins raises the question of whether these are different molecular species, or a single hemolysin synthesized by the streptococci via different pathways of metabolism, or complexes of a single hemolytic moiety with various molecular carriers.
INTEGRATED ADAPTIVE-SIGNAL DYNAMIC-SPEED CONTROL OF SIGNALIZED ARTERIALS

This paper demonstrates the feasibility of an advanced concept of traffic control for congested urban arterials in an intelligent transportation system (ITS) setting. The core idea of the new concept is to integrate the capability of dynamic adaptive signals with dynamically optimized time-dependent variable speed. Under such control, speeds would be automatically optimized and set by a central computer in parallel with the other signal control parameters. Speed and signal control parameters would change between links and over time, in response to changing traffic conditions. Drivers would follow the optimized speed as they enter a link. Once an optimal speed has been set for a link, it remains constant until the control cycle ends. Link speeds would be updated only at the end of every control cycle. The control cycle may change in length as system conditions evolve. The new control concept was tested on a congested arterial with multiple links. The arterial system was modeled as a discrete event time var...
Nutrient digestion in the large intestine as influenced by forage to concentrate ratio and forage physical form.

Abstract Digestion in the large intestine was investigated in four growing steers fitted with duodenal and ileal cannulas. Diets assigned within a 4×4 Latin square were: 20% long alfalfa hay and 80% grain; 15% pelleted alfalfa, 5% hay, and 80% grain; 80% hay and 20% grain; and 60% pellets, 20% hay, and 20% grain. Intake of DM was not affected by diet. Organic matter digestion in the large intestine averaged 9, 3, 1, and −4% of total tract digestion for the 20% hay, 20% pellet, 80% hay, and 80% pellet diets, respectively, with significant increases due to high grain diets and long hay. Digestion of CP in the large intestine as a percentage of total tract digestion was unaffected by diet but averaged 3, −1, .3, and −6% for the respective diets. Percentage of total tract starch digestion occurring in the large intestine increased with grain feeding and averaged 6, 3, 1, and 1%, respectively. Digestion of ADF and NDF in the large intestine as a percentage of total tract was unaffected by diet; however, the respective means were 16 and 15, 7 and 7, 5 and 15, and 1 and 1%. In a second trial the same animals were fed a more typical dairy cow diet consisting of 50% grain, 25% corn silage, and 25% long alfalfa hay for a single 18-d period. Digestion in the large intestine accounted for 2.1, .2, 3.6, and 6.4% of total tract digestion of organic matter, starch, ADF, and NDF, respectively; however, feed intake was not as great as in the first trial. Although conditions of these studies differed from those commonly experienced by lactating cows, the underlying principals should apply. The large intestine would be expected to make an even greater contribution to total tract digestion in lactating cows consuming proportionally more DM.
Detection of single base mismatches of thymine and cytosine residues by potassium permanganate and hydroxylamine in the presence of tetralkylammonium salts

Abstract In the presence of tetramethylammonium chloride, potassium permanganate specifically modifies mismatched thymines. Similarly, the modification of mismatched cytosines by hydroxylamine was enhanced by tetraethylammonium chloride. Modification followed by piperidine cleavage permits specific identification of the T and C mismatches and by extension, when the opposite DNA strand is analyzed, of A and G mismatches as well. These reactions can be performed conveniently with DNA immobilized on Hybond M-G paper. We describe conditions that exploit these reactions to detect mismatches, e.g. point mutations or genetic polymorphisms, using either synthetic oligonucleotide probes or PCR amplification of specific genomic DNA sequences.
Entrance Length of Low Reynolds Number Flow in Microchannel

The entrance lengths in rectangular microchannels with planar reservoirs, geometries typically produced with microfabrication techniques, have been investigated in the low Reynolds number range, 1 < ReD < 100. Two microchannels having the complementary aspect ratios (H/W) of 2.75 and 0.37 are fabricated and tested. The hydraulic diameters of two microchannels are ~370 μm and ~56.4 μm. μPIV is used to measure the velocity profiles and the entrance lengths are found from the curve fitted centerline velocity growth. The entrance lengths in the channels with planar upstream reservoirs are found to be significantly different from those with infinite upstream reservoirs.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
MEASURING FATIGUE IN CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME : WHY AND HOW

SummaryFatigue is a common symptom occurring in a wide range of acute and chronic illnesses. It is multidimensional and subjective and because of this it has been difficult to define and quantify. Fatigue is one of several significant symptoms in diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis, but for persons with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), it is often the most debilitating symptom. The need for valid and reliable assessments of fatigue is necessary for health care providers as we are increasingly required to document outcomes of care for professional and insurance purposes.
Depression and survival among HIV-infected persons.

To the Editor. —We previously reported 1,2 that depression, defined by Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) score, is not associated with a more rapid time to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) or death or with a more rapid decline in CD4 cell count among human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1)—infected AIDS-free homosexual men participating in the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study (MACS). We are currently studying pre-AIDS depression, which consists of a dramatic increase in CES-D—based depressive symptomatology occurring 12 to 18 months before AIDS (by the 1987 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention clinical definition 3 ). These changes in severity of depression, at a time of multiple psychological and biological stressors, raises the question as to whether depression at later stages of HIV infection is different from depression at earlier stages. It might be hypothesized that depressive symptoms at late stages of HIV infection are associated with more rapid
Network inverse and mesh transformation matrices

The importance of matrix inversion has become rather apparent in solving power system problems digitally. Computation of the inverse matrix is quite involved, however, and even with the largest computer, the inversion time runs high. The outright inversion of an n by n matrix requires operations proportional to the cube of n. For this reason, its use has been limited to certain repetitive-type problems such as the short-circuit study. In many instances, by taking advantage of favorable network configurations and using network techniques, matrix inversion can be obtained much more efficiently than with the outright inversion method.
A test to measure problem-solving skills in science of children in grades one, two, and three

The aim of this study was to develop a reliable and valid group test that would evaluate some of the science problem-solving skills of children in grades one, two, and three. The primary grade children used in this study were from three different socio-economic areas: Area I has been described as a low-income urban section; Area II is characterized as a middle-income outlying-urban area; and Area III is a high-income suburban region. The problem-solving skills identified for use in this instrument are: (1) the ability to recognize the problem presented; (2) an understanding of science principles needed to solve the problem; (3) the ability to collect data; and (4) the ability to reason with “if-then” statements. The findings from the preliminary testing were used to clarify ambiguities in test directions and format and to calculate the difficulty and discrimination of each test item. After an item-by-item analysis of student performance, a final form of the instrument was constructed. The data from this final form was used to determine time limits, scoring procedures, test validity, reliability, and norms.
Preparing Professionals to Serve English-Language Learners with Communication Disorders

The diversity of the nation's school-age population is increasing rapidly. The challenge of assuring that all students have access to appropriate opportunities for literacy development and academic instruction requires comprehensive educational reform and collaboration among professionals at all levels and across disciplines. The power of collaboration lies in the capacity and willingness of individual professionals to develop their own areas of expertise as well as to merge skills to develop cadres of personnel who can collaborate in promoting student achievement. This article discusses both the challenges and opportunities the nation faces in attaining educational equity through the preparation of cadres of professionals to meet the educational needs of English-language learners with communication disorders.When 7-year-old Brian arrived from Puerto Rico, I noticed that he didn't participate with the other students in my first-grade class. Most of the time he was quiet. Because I thought he was just begi...
Thermal bimolecular reactions of size selected transition metal cluster ions: Nb+n + O2, n = 1–6

Abstract Niobium cluster ions, Nb + n , are generated using a new laser desorption source. This source, floated at 5 kV, is coupled to a high resolution reverse geometry mas spectrometer. Mass selected cluster ions exiting the mass spectrometer are decelerated to several electronvolts and spatially focused on a small hole in the entrance plate to a high pressure (0–7 Torr), variable temperature (80–600K) drift reactor. The cluster ions gently drift through this 4 cm long cell under the influence of small electric fields. A helium buffer gas is used to thermalize the ions. Trace amounts of O 2 are added for the reaction studies. Ions exiting the drift reactor are analyzed using a quadrupole mass filter and ion counting techniques. The quadrupole mass filter has an upper mass range of about 600 dalton, limiting the current maximum cluster size to n = 6. All reactions of Nb + n with O 2 are found to be fast, proceeding at 40 ± 10% of the collision rate. For n = 2–6, the major (90%) product results from loss of NbO from the Nb + n · O 2 collision complex. For n = 3–6, other (small) competing channels include loss of NbO 2 and Nb atoms from the collision complex. Fast sequential reactions of the reaction products with O 2 are observed. An analysis of the arrival time distribution of Nb + at the detector indicates laser desorption forms ≈ 80% ground state (4d 4 , 5 D) and 20% excited state (4d 3 5s 1 , 5 F). Collisional deactivation by He occurs at a rate constant ⪡ 1 × 10 −15 cm 3 s −1 .
Reproducibility of the adrenal androgen response to adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation

Eleven healthy, eumenorrheic, nonhirsute women underwent acute adrenal stimulation testing at monthly intervals in order to measure the responses of cortisol (F), DHEA, and androstenedione, to a 60-minute acute stimulation with 1.0 mg ACTH (1-24). When the women were subdivided into either high or low responders to ACTH stimulation (relative to the group median), the relative adrenocortical response within individual subjects was found to be highly constant over time.
The Variation of the Mean Age of Suicides in the United States

In the United States from 1968-1996, the mean age of suicides was positively associated with measures of domestic social integration. It is suggested that the mean age of suicides could be an interesting dependent variable in suicidological research.
People Lie for a Reason: Three Experiments Documenting the Principle of Veracity

The principle of veracity specifies a moral asymmetry between honesty and deceit. Deception requires justification, whereas honesty does not. Three experiments provide evidence consistent with the principle of veracity. In Study 1, participants (N = 66) selected honest or deceptive messages in response to situations in which motive was varied. Study 2 (N = 66) replicated the first with written, open-ended responses coded for deceptive content. Participants in Study 3 (N = 126) were given an opportunity to cheat for monetary gain and were subsequently interrogated about cheating. As predicted, when honesty was sufficient to meet situational demands, honest messages were selected, generated, and observed 98.5% to 100% of the time. Alternatively, deception was observed 60.0% to 64.3% of the time when variations in the same situations made the truth problematic. It is concluded that people usually deceive for a reason, that motives producing deception are usually the same that guide honesty, and that people u...
Subtraction From a Historical Perspective

The algorithms used for subtraction vary. In the United States, three different algorithms were used almost equally until the 1940s: the equal additions, the decomposition, and the Austrian method. After William Brownell modified the decomposition algorithm, the use of other algorithms was practically eliminated in mathematics textbooks. Today, some texts introduce the equal additions algorithm, but the decomposition is still the predominant algorithm. This article reviews the historical use of each of the three algorithms in the United States, discusses the modification to the decomposition algorithm, and gives a brief overview of the current status of subtraction algorithms.
Post-wildland fire desertification: Can rehabilitation treatments make a difference?

Desertification, caused by land degradation as opposed to the immediate creation of classical deserts, is of prime concern in the 21st century. As a result of human activities and climate change, the land loses its proper hydrologic function and biological productivity. Desertification affects 33 % of the earth’s surface and over a billion people. Fire-related desertification has a number of environmental, social, and economic consequences. The two key environmental consequences are soil erosion and non-native plant invasions. Erosion after wildland fires can be in the range of <1 Mg ha−1 to 370 Mg ha−1, depending on fire severity, degree of water repellency, slope, and post-fire rainfall events. Soil losses in the high end of that range definitely exceed soil loss tolerances and contribute to desertification. Non-native plants are typically ten times as abundant on landscapes burned by wildland fires than on unburned lands. Seeding has been used for many years as a prime Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) treatment. Until recently, this seeding contributed to non-native plant invasions because fast-growing but non native plant seeds were used. The use of native plant seeds and sterile hybrids has reduced this problem somewhat. However, even certified weed-free seed lots have low percentages of non-native plant seeds. Recent use of wet and dry mulches have contributed to reduced postwildland fire erosion rates, but they are quite expensive. This paper examines post-wildland fire desertification and the capabilities of BAER treatments to deal with this growing problem.
Estado actual de la cirugía mitral reconstructiva

Valve reconstruction, whenever technically feasible, is currently the treatment of choice for mitral valve regurgitation. Preoperative transesophageal echocardiography discloses the precise location and extent of these lesions, making it possible for the surgeon to determine the repairability of the valve and to devise a roadmap for the most appropriate surgical maneuvers. Today, the aim of surgery should not be limited to abolishing regurgitation, but should also comprise restoration of the normal valve geometry in order to ensure durability of the repair. This geometric redress involves a) leaflet enlargement or reduction, b) replacement of all ruptured, elongated or attenuated chords with Goretex sutures, and c) annuloplasty with a flexible, complete ring that prevents distension even in the intertrigonal area, maintains the saddle shape of the annulus and reduces the dilated anteroposterior diameter of the annulus. These techniques have made repair rates approaching 100% possible in patients with degenerative valve diseases. For functional ischemic regurgitation, treatment currently consists of reduction annuloplasty with a small complete ring performed at the time of revascularization. However, despite the improvements seen in these patients, late recurrence of insufficiency occurs in about 30% of them. Recent evidence that the mechanism of recurrence is the apical and lateral displacement of the papillary muscles suggests that in addition to annuloplasty, surgical approximation of the papillary muscles may be necessary.
Letter by Laskey Regarding Article, “Systemic Hypertension in Low-Gradient Severe Aortic Stenosis With Preserved Ejection Fraction”

I read with great interest the recent study by Eleid et al1 on the topic of systemic arterial hypertension in patients with low-gradient severe aortic stenosis and preserved ejection fraction. The concept that alterations in systemic arterial hemodynamics may have unique and unexpected consequences for patients with aortic valve stenosis is particularly important given the current emphasis on the recognition and treatment of aortic valve stenosis. Eleid et al have nicely shown that afterload reduction with nitroprusside in patients with aortic valve stenosis, low gradients (at rest), and severe systemic arterial hypertension not only results in the reduction in intracardiac filling pressures (in patients with …
Localization, isolation and properties of three NADPH-dependent aldehyde reducing enzymes from dog kidney.

Three kinds of NADPH-dependent aldehyde reducing enzymes were present in the dog kidney. Aldose reductase was located in the inner medulla region and aldehyde reductase in all regions of the renal cortex, outer medulla and inner medulla. In addition, a new reductase designated tentatively as high- K m aldo reductase, which was converted into an aldose reductase-like enzyme, was present in the inner medulla region of the kidney. Aldose reductase, aldehyde reductase and high- K m aldose reductase were purified to homogeneity from each region of the dog kidney. The molecular weight of aldose reductase was estimated to be 38 500 by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and the isoelectric point was found to be 5.7 by chromatofocusing. Aldose reductase had activity for aldo-sugars such as d -xylose, d -glucose and d -galactose as substrates and utilized both NADPH and NADH as coenzymes. Sulfate ions resulted in over 2-fold activation of aldose reductase. All aldehyde reductases from the three regions had the same properties. The molecular weights and isoelectric points of aldehyde reductases were 40 000 and 6.1, respectively. The aldehyde reductases were inactive for d -hexose, utilized only NADPH as coenzyme and were not affected by sulfate ions. High- K m aldose reductase had a molecular weight of 38 500 and an isoelectric point of 5.4. It had activity for aldo-sugars, but showed much higher K m and lower k cat / K m values than aldose reductase. Sulfate ions inhibited high- K m aldose reductase. It was converted into an aldose reductase-like enzyme by incubation in phosphate buffer at pH 7.0. The three kinds of enzymes were strongly inhibited by the known aldose reductase inhibitors. However, aldehyde reductase and high- K m aldose reductase were, in general, less susceptible than aldose reductase.
Anomalous magnetic properties and proximity effect coupling in VAMAS strands

Abstract Anomalously low levels of proximity effect (PE) coupling, as well as an anomalously high paramagnetic tilt, have been found in some of the superconducting multifilamentary strands produced for the Versailles Project on Advanced Materials and Standards (VAMAS). We report on two types of strands that were measured for the 2nd VAMAS intercomparison program on low-frequency (hysteretic) AC loss: (i) a Cu matrix (H-) series with filament diameters (df) ranging from 0.5 μm to 12 μm and (ii) a nominal Cu-10 wt% Ni (l-) series with df ranging from 0.4 μm to 1 μm. The l-series strands combine anomalously low levels of PE coupling with a strong paramagnetic tilt. Microprobe analysis of the matrix alloy revealed a composition of 10.3 wt% Ni plus 0.78 wt% Mn, which is in agreement with the manufacturer's specification sheets. The paramagnetic tilt can be shown to be due almost entirely to the presence of the Mn which also plays a dominant role in the anomalous PE suppression. The presence of Mn in this nominally Cu-Ni matrix resolves the ‘anomalously’ low coupling and magnetic properties of the l-series strands in a straightforward way. On the other hand, manufacturer's specifications and microprobe analysis showed that the matrix for the H-series strands was pure Cu. These strands also exhibited an anomalously low level of PE coupling but for different reasons, to be discussed. The PE coupling of these strands is compared to those with a variety of other matrices, while attempting to correct for non-matrix-material factors.
Reply to Comment by T. L Holzer [on “Comparison between probabilistic seismic hazard analysis and flood frequency analysis”]

Risk discussed by Wang and Ormsbee [2005] may differ from that of Holzer. Although there are some different definitions of risk among different professions, it is quantified by three terms: probability hazard (loss or others), and exposure. For example, in health sciences, risk is defined as the probability of getting cancer if an average daily dose of a hazardous substance (hazard) is taken over a 70-year lifetime (exposure). In the financial world, risk is defined as the probability of losing a certain amount of money (loss) over a period of time. Wang and Ormsbee defined seismic risk as the probability of a structure being damaged one or more times (at least once) in t years (exposure) by an earthquake or ground motion (hazard) generated by the earthquake. This definition is consistent with that of Cornell [1968]. This is also consistent with those used in building codes, such as the International Building Code [ICC, 2000].
Theoretical study of the protonated hydronium radical cation H40+ as a rydberg molecule. The ground state

Abstract Ab initio calculations at HF and MP2 (the second-order Moller-Plesset perturbation ) levels with a series of extended basis sets 6-31G*, 6-31G** and 6-31G**R have been carried out for the tetrahedral H 4 O + cation and its related species H 4 O 2+ , H 3 O, H 3 O + , H 2 O, H 2 O + and H 2 in order to study it as a Rydberg molecule. The results have shown some evidence of the Rydberg character of the ground state H 4 O + including that the calculated ionization potential matches well with the estimate from the modified Rydberg formula. The ground state has been predicted to be unstable with respect to H 3 O + +H or H 2 O + + H 2 . The potential energy curve of the dissociation into H 3 O + + H has been calculated and no potential barrier has been found. Analysis of electronic details has also shown some Rydberg character of the ground state H 4 O + but it has indicated a strong effect of the 3s Rydberg state interacting with the valence states. The concept of Rydberg-valence state mixing gives a good explanation of the calculated properties of the ground state of the tetrahedral H 4 O + presented here.
Identification of Possible Discrepancies in HEU Metal Benchmarks

Abstract The experiment from which benchmark specifications of “Lady Godiva” were derived consisted of nested hemispheres forming a bare sphere of highly enriched uranium (HEU). That experiment was performed in the early 1950s and the critical configuration was later (1995) evaluated and published in the International Handbook of Evaluated Criticality Safety Benchmark Experiments. The benchmark eigenvalue is reported as 1.000 ± 0.001, which is representative of a high-quality benchmark experiment. Our current neutronic codes and cross section data are tailored to provide qualitative results that concur with the GODIVA I benchmark. Since 1995, additional high-fidelity HEU metal benchmark data have been evaluated and published. Calculated results from many of those benchmarks are consistently low. While there is generally good agreement between calculated and benchmark eigenvalues for spherical and slab geometries, cylindrical configurations tend to calculate low.
Using the Purdue Three-Stage Model to Facilitate Local Program Evaluations

Program evaluations conducted by district staff for the purpose of providing feedback to local decision makers are necessary for program improvement and accountability (Fetterman, 1993) can facilitate the creation of longitudinal data bases on the outcomes of gifted and talented programs. This research and development project was undertaken to design, implement, and evaluate a year-long staff development program to improve the evaluation skills of the participants. The Purdue Three-Stage Model (Feldhusen & Kolloff, 1978; Moon, 1994) was used as the theoretical framework for the training program developed. Results suggest that the self-evaluation training was effective in helping coordinators become more skilled program evaluators. Implications of the project for program evaluation, training of program administrators, and longitudinal research on the outcomes of gifted and talented programs are discussed.