cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
SARS-CoV-2 PCR cycle threshold at hospital admission associated with Patient Mortality

ABSTRACT Background Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) cycle threshold (Ct) has been suggested as an approximate measure of initial viral burden. The relationship of initial Ct at hospitalization and patient mortality has not been thoroughly investigated. Methods and findings We conducted a retrospective study of SARS-CoV-2 positive, hospitalized patients from 3/26/2020 to 8/5/2020 who had SARS-CoV-2 Ct data within 48 hours of admission (n=1044). Only patients with complete survival data discharged (n=774) or died in hospital (n=270), were included in our analysis. Laboratory, demographic, and clinical data were extracted from electronic medical records. Multivariable logistic regression was applied to examine the relationship of patient mortality with Ct values while adjusting for established risk factors. Ct was analyzed as continuous variable and subdivided into quartiles to better illustrate its relationship with outcome. Cumulative incidence curves were created to assess whether there was a survival difference in the setting of the competing risks of death versus patient discharge. Mean Ct at admission was higher for survivors (28.6, SD=5.8) compared to non-survivors (24.8, SD=6.0, P 32.9) had lower odds of in-hospital death (P Conclusion SARS-CoV-2 Ct was found to be an independent predictor of patient mortality. However, further study is needed on how to best clinically utilize such information given the result variation due to specimen quality, phase of disease, and the limited discriminative ability of the test. AUTHOR SUMMARY Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has effected the entire world, with approximately 23 million affected till date. Clinicians, researcher and scientists are making all efforts to identify ways of diagnosis, predicting outcome and treatment modalities. The polymerase chain reaction (rT-PCR) technology, is the standard test being used for the diagnosis and it gives an additional value known as “cycle threshold” (Ct), which is the number of PCR cycles required to cross the designated threshold and termed patient as positive for the infection. This Ct value is inverse of the viral load in the patient and has been studied as indicator of outcome of infection. In this study we have analyzed the Ct value as a predictor for mortality and compared it between different age and gender. We found the Ct value significantly different between those who survived and those who died due to the disease. However proper utilization of the Ct value needs further studies to be utilized in the clinical setting and guide decision making.
Feature range analysis

We propose a feature range analysis algorithm whose aim is to derive features that explain the response variable better than the original features. Moreover, for binary classification problems, and for regression problems where positive and negative samples can be defined (e.g., using a threshold value of the numeric response variable), our aim is to derive features that explain, characterize and isolate the positive samples or subsets of positive samples that have the same root cause. Each derived feature represents a single or multi-dimensional subspace of the feature space, where each dimension is specified as a feature range pair for numeric features, and as a feature-level pair for categorical features. We call these derived features range features. Unlike most rule learning and subgroup discovery algorithms, the response variable can be numeric, and our algorithm does not require a discretization of the response. The algorithm has been applied successfully to real-life root-causing tasks in chip design, manufacturing, and validation, at Intel. Furthermore, we propose and experimentally evaluate a number of heuristics for usage of range features in building predictive models, demonstrating that prediction accuracy can be improved for the majority of real-life proprietary and open-source datasets used in the evaluation.
Investigation of poly(phenylacetylene) derivatives for carbon precursor with high carbon yield and good solubility

Abstract This paper investigates a family of poly(phenylacetylene) derivatives with a p-electrons conjugated polymer backbone and side groups containing only sp2 and sp carbons. The objective is to identify the suitable carbon precursor that is processible and can be transformed to carbonaceous material with high carbon yield by a simple (one-step) thermal transformation process (without any external reagent). Poly(phenylacetylene) with para-substituted acetylene group poly(PA-A) shows an exceptionally high C-yield (~90%) in one-step heating from ambient temperature to 1000 °C under N2 atmosphere. Unfortunately, this poly(PA-A) polymer is quite sensitive to heat and light with very limited solubility. On the other hand, poly(phenylacetylene) with para-substituted phenylacetylene group, i.e. poly(PA-PA), offers a relatively high C-yield (~80%) and also good solubility in common organic solvents, such as toluene and tetrahydrofuran (THF). Several uniform dark-red poly(PA-PA) fibers with smooth surface and fiber diameter in the range of 3–6 μm were prepared from 30 wt% poly(PA-PA)/THF solution using electrospinning technique. The resulting precursor fibers were converted to the corresponding carbon structure in a one-step thermal heating process under N2 atmosphere. Both X-ray and Raman spectra show the polymorphous carbon morphology with the graphene crystalline domains.
“Sunny Makes Everything Okay”: Therapy Dogs as a Pedagogical Tool in Sensitive Classes

Criminal justice classes often involve emotionally taxing content. Students who identify as trauma survivors are at risk of being retraumatized through such courses, which not only impedes their ability to complete the courses but may also cause deleterious health consequences. While studies have addressed sensitive and triggering content in college curricula, fewer have examined mitigation techniques. Based on observations and student feedback, this study reports on the efficacy of utilizing a trained therapy dog in criminal justice courses focused on interpersonal victimization. Data were obtained over a three year period (prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic) in higher level undergraduate criminal justice classes on child maltreatment, family violence, and victimology, during which the author’s registered therapy dog was strategically incorporated. Findings are discussed within the context of student mental health, bridging research on therapy dogs within primary and secondary education with innovative pedagogical approaches at the university level. © 2021 Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences.
Do American Voters Really Not Punish Overt Undemocratic Behavior at the Polls? Natural Experimental Evidence from the 2021 Insurrection of the U.S. Capitol

Existing research suggests that too few American voters hold politicians electorally accountable for overt undemocratic behavior to reasonably deter democratic backsliding. Evidence for this proposition comes primarily from hypothetical survey experiments with relatively modest treatments. I test this hypothesis using a natural experiment with a powerful real-world treatment: Donald Trump's incitement of the insurrection of the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. The insurrection was unexpected to the general public, did not coincide with other events that could plausibly affect public opinion, and occurred while Gallup was conducting a nationally representative survey using random digit dialing. Comparing Republican Party support among respondents that were interviewed just before, and just after, the insurrection occurred suggests that the insurrection caused a 10.8% decline in support for the Republican Party. Voters predominantly moved to the Democratic Party, rather than Independent. Back-of-the-envelope calculations suggests that this electoral penalty is sufficient to decide presidential elections.
Adaptive Nonlinear Series Capacitor Controller For Power System Transient Stability

Nonlinear control of a power system following transient stability faults is considered in this paper. The use of thyristor controlled series capacitors to improve the transient stability of the power system results approximately in a bilinear control process. We propose using a low-order bilinear time-series model based adaptive controller, derived from a generalized predictive control criterion, with the series capacitor controller and the easily measured armature current signal, to enhance the region of stability of the power system. Simulation results are included to illustrate the efficacy of the proposed method.
Estimating Underground Power Station Costs

Planners involved in evaluating pumped-storage alternatives found the capital cost of the underground powerstation directly related to the installed capacity. Estimates for three underground powerplant sizes are tabulated and discussed. These sizes are 450MW, 800MW, and 2100MW each with 1652 feet (504 m.) of head. Costs are given for various types of powerplant machinery including reversible pump-turbines, generator-motors, transformers, electrical switchgear, and powerplant accessories. The costs are being used in planning several pumped-storage complex systems in the Rocky Mountain region. Some discussion is included as to why the designers favored an underground site and why these costs would be applicable to planning other pumped-storage systems.
Measurements on field-qualified 10000 Amp-hr lithium/thionyl chloride submodules

Two lithium-thionyl chloride submodules from different manufacturers were studied during discharge. Each submodule consisted of three 10000 Amp-hr cells. A number of parameters were measured during the discharge. Those parameters monitored were current, voltage, pressure, gas composition, external displacement and external temperature. All measurements except gas composition were accomplished by use of a computer-based data acquisition and control system. Milestones at zero, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80% and total discharge were chosen to draw gas samples from each cell. >
Alteration of the phosphorylation state of p34cdc2 kinase by the flavone L86-8275 in breast carcinoma cells : correlation with decreased H1 kinase activity

Abstract The flavone L86-8275 [(−)]cis-5,7-dihydroxy-2(2-chlorophenyl)-8-[4-(3-hydroxy-1-methyl)-piperidyl]-4H-1-benzopyran-4-one] delayed the progression of aphidicolin-synchronized MDA-468 breast carcinoma cells through S phase and prevented progression through G2. L86-8275 prevented the G2-related increase in histone H1 kinase activity mediated by cyclin-dependent kinase-1 (p34cdc2 kinase). L86-8275 inhibited [32P]orthophosphate labeling of p34cdc2 threonine and tyrosine residues and decreased the phosphotyrosine content of p34cdc2. Diminution of p34cdc2 phosphotyrosine appeared selective, as a general depletion of cellular phosphotyrosine was not observed. The mass of p34cdc2 in L86-8275-exposed cells was not decreased during the period over which these effects occurred. [35S]Methionine labeling of p34cdc2 or other cellular proteins was not inhibited at concentrations that were effective for complete cellular growth inhibition. We hypothesize that L86-8275 interferes with the normal cell cycle-dependent phosphorylation of p34cdc2, resulting in decreased kinase activity and cell cycle arrest.
The Multi-Attitude Suicide Tendency Scale : Further validation with adolescent psychiatric inpatients

The present study was designed to examine the construct validity and psychometric properties of the Multi-Attitude Suicide Tendency Scale in adolescent psychiatric inpatients. This new scale has four subscales: attraction to life, repulsion by life, attraction to death, and repulsion by death. Confirmatory factor analysis of the scale items provided support for the fit of the 28-item, four-factor model. Results of logistic regression analyses revealed that high scores on the repulsion by life and the attraction to death subscales were useful in assessing the risk for suicide attempts. Results of the hierarchical regression analysis showed that high repulsion by life and low attraction to life subscale scores contributed to the prediction of scores on the suicide probability scale. We also examined gender differences on the four subscales and the psychological correlates of each subscale.
Cognitive-experiential self-theory.

The book, Letters from Jenny, by Gordon All port (1965) presented a series of letters written over an extended period by a woman named Jenny to her son, Ross. Jenny was a poor, hard-working woman who sacrificed almost everything she had for Ross. She supported him in an affluent lifestyle at an Ivy League college, while she barely had enough to eat. All that mattered to her was his well-being. Yet, she failed miserably in bringing fulfillment and happiness to him as well as to herself. When Ross began to form relationships with other women, Jenny disowned him, very likely contributing to his early death. She then derived more happiness from his memory than she had from his presence.
The Lasting Effects of Leaving School in an Economic Downturn on Alcohol Use

The author tests whether leaving school in an economic downturn persistently affects alcohol use. She models alcohol use in middle age as a function of the state unemployment rate at school-leaving in the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1979 Cohort. The results suggest that men, but not women, who leave school in an economic downturn consume more drinks and are more likely to report heavy and binge drinking than otherwise similar men. Findings are robust to addressing the endogeneity of the time and location of school-leaving and contribute to the literature on the lasting consequences of leaving school in an economic downturn.
The Nutritional Requirements of Exercising Dogs

The nutrient requirements of canine athletes are unique. Dogs have a greater capacity for fat oxidation than humans both at rest and during exercise. In dogs undertaking endurance exercise, such as sled dogs, high fat (>50% of energy) diets increase stamina and maximize energy production, and high protein (>30% of energy) diets prevent training-induced anemia. Nutrient requirements differ, however, for sprint racing dogs, such as greyhounds. Greyhounds run faster when fed moderately increased dietary fat but run more slowly when dietary protein is increased. Sled dogs have similar energy requirements to other breeds at rest in a thermoneutral environment ( approximately 550W0.75 kJ/d where W is body weight in kg) but may require as much as 4200W0.75 kJ/d during a race. The energy requirement of greyhounds in training, however, is only approximately 600W0.75 kJ/d. There is little information, however, concerning the vitamin, mineral or other nutrient requirements of athletic dogs; most sled dogs and greyhounds are fed "homemade" recipes. These recipes usually include raw meat and represent a health risk. More studies are required to improve the health and performance of working and racing dogs.
Effect of diet on otolith composition in Pomatomus saltatrix, an estuarine piscivore

To test the hypothesis that elemental composition of otoliths (sagittae) could be influenced by differences in natural prey type, young-of-the-year bluefish Pomatomus saltatrix were captured immediately after their migration from oceanic waters into mid-Atlantic Bight estuaries and fed either shrimp, Crangon septemspinosa and Palaemonetes spp. or fish Menidia menidia under similar temperature and salinity regimes in two separate 60 day experiments. Unlimited rations of fish and shrimp prey were provided in the first experiment which led to differences in bluefish growth rate between the two prey treatments; fish prey was limited in the second experiment to ensure that growth rates of bluefish in the two prey treatments were similar. Concentrations of seven elements in bluefish otoliths were determined using solution-based inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICPMS). There was no significant effect of diet on five of the seven elements examined (Na, Mg, K, Ca and Mn). The levels of Sr and Ba in the otoliths of shrimp-fed bluefish, however, were significantly higher than fish-fed bluefish in both experiments. Concentrations of Ba in shrimp-fed bluefish otoliths were double that found in fish-fed bluefish. The results suggest that diet can explain some of the variation in otolith chemistry previously attributed to physical and chemical properties of the water.
Long-Term Radiation Transients in GaAs FETs

A long-term transient response mechanism has been discovered in certain GaAs FETs and FET logic circuits exposed to low level (~ 100 rad) ionizing radiation pulses. Recovery times ranging from 1 to 70 seconds have been measured following room temperature exposures. Charge trapping within the semiinsulating GaAs substrate appears to be a mechanism responsible for the observed behavior. Experiments conducted between 0° and 200°C have identified an acceptor level characterized by an activation energy in the 0.7 to 0.8 eV range.
Iminophosphorane-mediated carbodiimide metathesis

Iminophosphorane Cl3PNAr (Ar = 2-fluorophenyl) is an active carbodiimide metathesis catalyst and the cycloaddition product, a 1,3-diaza-2-phosphetidine, is an intermediate in the reaction.
Conflict between Positive and Negative Feedback as an Explanation for the Initiation of Aggregation in Slime Mould Amoebae

WHEN their supply of bacterial food becomes exhausted, some species of cellular slime mould seem to spread evenly over the area they occupy and later begin to aggregate into several fairly regularly spaced clusters. The aggregate typically migrates as a slug, then erects a fruiting body containing spores which germinate when conditions are favourable1. What causes these seemingly independent organisms to engage in such collective behaviour ? The answer to this question could provide important clues to the understanding of other morphogenetic developments.
Influence of beta-alanine on ultrastructure, tanning, and melanization of Drosophila melanogaster cuticles.

In Drosophila melanogaster, the chitinous microfibrils arising from the tips of the epidermal villi in adult cuticles remain irregular and loose in the mutant ebony (which fails in cuticular incorporation of β-alanine) but closely knit and regular in normal flies. Addition of β-alanine to cuticles from which nonchitinous materials have been removed with alkali converts the loose arrangement of the microfibrils to a compact and sharply delineated arrangement. β-alanine also accelerates tyrosinase-catalyzed oxidation of N-acetyldopamine by reacting with the oxidized product of the reaction to produce an orange-red complex. Similarly, β-alanine accelerates oxidation of N-acetyldopamine when these two substances are added to fluids from the hemocoel, to lead to tanning instead of normal blackening. These findings may help explain why β-alanine induces tanning while inhibiting melanization in insects.
Single-Input Planar Navigation via Proportional Heading Control Exploiting Nonholonomic Mechanics or Vortex Shedding

We present a strategy for coupled steering and motion generation applicable to a class of single-input planar robotic vehicles. We demonstrate this strategy through simulations of two different vehicles under closed-loop control, the first a novel variation of the Chaplygin sleigh and the second a fishlike swimmer in an ideal fluid. The dynamics of the former are influenced by a nonholonomic constraint and the dynamics of the latter by a hydrodynamic force associated with vortex shedding. The juxta-position of these two systems highlights a link between nonholonomic mechanics and hydrodynamics explored in a prior paper.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Dynamic operation of amine scrubbing in response to electricity demand and pricing

Abstract This paper examines dynamic operation of CO 2 capture with absorption/stripping using 7 m MEA, where the absorber is operated at full capacity with the stripper at reduced load. Depending on the cost of CO 2 emissions, doing so in response to variations in electricity demand could improve annual profits by $10–$100 million or more at facilities with CO 2 capture. Dynamic scenarios were simulated with a controlled, constant ratio of heat rate and solvent rate. With an 80% load reduction, scenarios that turn CO 2 capture off and on affect stripper performance only slightly and reach the steady state in about 90 and 18 minutes respectively.
Ab initio dynamics of rapid fracture

As our title implies, we consider materials failure at the fundamental level of atomic bond breaking and motion. Using computational molecular dynamics, scalable parallel computers and visualization, we are studying the failure of notched solids under tension using in excess of atoms. In rapid brittle fracture, two of the most intriguing features are the roughening of a crack's surface with increasing speed and the terminal crack speed which is much less than the theoretical prediction. Our two-dimensional simulations show conclusively that a dynamic instability of the crack motion occurs as it approaches one-third of the surface sound speed. This discovery provides an explanation for the crack's surface roughening and limiting speed. For three-dimensional slabs, we find that an intrinsically ductile FCC crystal can experience brittle failure for certain crack orientations. A dynamic instability also occurs, but brittle failure is not maintained. The instability is immediately followed by a brittle-to-ductile transition and plasticity. Hyperelasticity, or the elasticity near failure, governs many of the failure processes observed in our simulations and its many roles are elucidated.
Instruction in surgical anatomy for gynecology residents using prosected human cadavers

Prosected human cadavers were used by a team of anatomists and gynecologic surgeons to teach surgical anatomy to gynecology residents. The course was offered at the start of each 8-week gynecologic surgery rotation. Hemisections and other similar prosections were used to demonstrate anatomic relationships and surgical procedures from vantage points unobtainable at the operating table. The initial response from the faculty and residents was encouraging. The residents believed the program to be beneficial and were satisfied with it. Both the anatomy faculty and the gynecology faculty found new insights into teaching issues during the interdisciplinary process of course preparation and teaching.
A statistical theory of resonance motion in the Sun-Jupiter system

We consider the application of the statistical method of phase mixing to the approximate Poincare solution to resonant motion. The two Poincare integrals of the motion for the restricted problem of three bodies are introduced to first order in the eccentricity. The theory of the phase mixing of an initialad hoc distribution of particles is then developed for this dynamical system, and the absence of significant evolution of the system far from resonance is verified.
Genome-wide linkage analysis of quantitative biomarker traits of osteoarthritis in a large, multigenerational extended family

Objective The genetic contributions to the multifactorial disorder osteoarthritis (OA) have been increasingly recognized. The goal of the current study was to use OA-related biomarkers of severity and disease burden as quantitative traits to identify genetic susceptibility loci for OA. Methods In a large multigenerational extended family (n = 350), we measured 5 OA-related biomarkers: hyaluronan (HA), cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), N-propeptide of type IIA collagen (PIIANP), C-propeptide of type II procollagen (CPII), and type II collagen neoepitope (C2C). Single-nucleotide polymorphism markers (n = 6,090) covering the whole genome were genotyped using the Illumina HumanLinkage-12 BeadChip. Variance components analysis, as implemented in the Sequential Oligogenic Linkage Analysis Routines, was used to estimate heritabilities of the quantitative traits and to calculate 2-point and multipoint logarithm of odds (LOD) scores using a polygenic model. Results After adjusting for age and sex, we found that 4 of the 5 biomarkers exhibited significant heritability (PIIANP 0.57, HA 0.49, COMP 0.43, C2C 0.30; P ≤ 0.01 for all). Fourteen of the 19 loci that had multipoint LOD scores of >1.5 were near to or overlapped with previously reported OA susceptibility loci. Four of these loci were identified by more than 1 biomarker. The maximum multipoint LOD scores for the heritable quantitative biomarker traits were 4.3 for PIIANP (chromosome 8p23.2), 3.2 for COMP (chromosome 8q11.1), 2.0 for HA (chromosome 6q16.3), and 2.0 for C2C (chromosome 5q31.2). Conclusion Herein, we report the first evidence of genetic susceptibility loci identified by OA-related biomarkers in an extended family. Our results demonstrate that serum concentrations of PIIANP, HA, COMP, and C2C have substantial heritable components, and using these biomarkers, several genetic loci potentially contributing to the genetic diversity of OA were identified.
The role of cyber-security in information technology education

30,000 qualified cyber-security specialists in the US Public Sector alone despite being one of the best financially compensated technology-related domains. Against ever evolving cyber-threats the need to graduate students skilled in the concepts and technologies of cyber-security is becoming a critical responsibility of academic institutions in order to help preserve the sovereignty of the US and her allies. This paper discusses the role of cyber-security in an IT education context and explains why IT programs should champion this topic. The relationship between Information Assurance and Security as a currently recognized discipline within IT and advanced cyber-security topics are presented. Recommendations for the placement and structure of a cyber-security emphasis within a curriculum are presented using an adaptable framework that we have named "Prepare, Defend, Act." We rationalize and discuss this framework along with teaching methods we have found to be effective in helping students maximize their cyber-security learning experience. Finally, four recommendations are proposed that we invite IT program-offering institutions to review.
Fat-free mass and total body water of infants estimated from total body electrical conductivity measurements

Total body electrical conductivity measure- ments can be used in conjunction with suitable calibration curves to quantitate fat-free mass and total body water. A study was designed to evaluate whether calibration curves, derived from miniature piglets, can be used to translate total body electrical conductivity measurements of human infants into estimates of total body water and fat-free mass. Thirty-four, healthy 2-, 4-, 8-, and 12-wk-old infants were studied. A comparison of the physical dimensions of infants and piglets indicated no large discrepancies in their body geometries that would invalidate the calibration from this standpoint. Estimates of fat-free mass, fat, and total body water were evaluated by comparison with the body com- position of reference infants of comparable description. There was excellent agreement between the total body electrical conductivity-derived estimates and reference body composition values, suggesting that the calibration procedure is adequate. Thus, the total body electrical con- ductivity technique can be used to estimate the body com- position of normal young infants without subjecting them to risk or discomfort. (Pediatr Res 22: 417-421, 1987) Abbreviations
Robust Derivation of Risk Reduction Strategies

Effective risk reduction strategies can be derived mechanically given sufficient characterization of the risks present in the system and the effectiveness of available risk reduction techniques. Quantitative assessments of risks and risk reduction techniques are likely to be inaccurate. In this paper we describe sensitivity analysis experiments which we carried out to evaluate how inaccurate quantification of risk and risk reduction techniques affect the performance of mechanically derived risk reduction strategies. Our experiments show that mechanically derived risk reduction strategies are likely to produce significant improvements in risk reduction compared to a alternative risk reduction strategies, and arguably should be used as a matter of course, even when knowledge of risk and risk reduction techniques is very inaccurate.
Corporate Finance and the Legal Environment — An Introduction

An appreciation of the legal environment becomes more important with each passing year for anyone involved in corporate finance. A casual glance at the morning newspaper will usually provide a quick reminder of just how much the two areas are interrelated. The current debate in the United States concerning health care legislation may well result in a package that has a tremendous impact on many companies and industries. Tax issues have been in the news recently as well. There have been a number of significant changes in tax regulations during the past decade, including the legislation just passed by the U. S. Congress in 1993. Smoking continues to generate considerable controversy, and one result has been courtroom battles between tobacco companies and local governments over antismoking ordinances. During the last year, the DuPont Corporation has been defending itself in court over charges that one of its products caused substantial damage to farm crops. Guilty or not, the risk and expense from product liability is an enormous problem confronting almost all companies today. Texaco settled a lawsuit with Pennzoil in 1988 for $3 billion in damages stemming from a battle for the control of Getty Oil. Texaco won that battle, but suffered a very serious setback in the courtroom.
Efficacy of Female Rat Models in Translational Cardiovascular Aging Research

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women in the United States. Aging is a primary risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease as well as cardiovascular-related morbidity and mortality. Aging is a universal process that all humans undergo; however, research in aging is limited by cost and time constraints. Therefore, most research in aging has been done in primates and rodents; however it is unknown how well the effects of aging in rat models translate into humans. To compound the complication of aging gender has also been indicated as a risk factor for various cardiovascular diseases. This review addresses the systemic pathophysiology of the cardiovascular system associated with aging and gender for aging research with regard to the applicability of rat derived data for translational application to human aging.
Long-wavelength infrared camera for the Keck Telescope

A long-wavelength IR camera which is currently being built for the 10-m Keck Telescope is described, with attentions given to its overall configuration and to the optics, the dewar, the detector, and the electronics. Special consideration is given to the instrument control system and the software architecture for the remote operation of the Keck long-wavelength-camera detector. The instrument parameters and a schematic diagram of the camera are included.
Opposing effects of inhibiting cap addition and cap methylation on polyadenylation during vesicular stomatitis virus mRNA synthesis.

The multifunctional large (L) polymerase protein of vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) contains enzymatic activities essential for RNA synthesis, including mRNA cap addition and polyadenylation. We previously mapped amino acid residues G1154, T1157, H1227, and R1228, present within conserved region V (CRV) of L, as essential for mRNA cap addition. Here we show that alanine substitutions to these residues also affect 3′-end formation. Specifically, the cap-defective polymerases produced truncated transcripts that contained A-rich sequences at their 3′ termini and predominantly terminated within the first 500 nucleotides (nt) of the N gene. To examine how the cap-defective polymerases respond to an authentic VSV termination and reinitiation signal present at each gene junction, we reconstituted RNA synthesis using templates that contained genes inserted (I) at the leader-N gene junction. The I genes ranged in size from 382 to 1,098 nt and were typically transcribed into full-length uncapped transcripts. In addition to lacking a cap structure, the full-length I transcripts synthesized by the cap-defective polymerases lacked an authentic polyadenylate tail and instead contained 0 to 24 A residues. Moreover, the cap-defective polymerases were also unable to copy efficiently the downstream gene. Thus, single amino acid substitutions in CRV of L protein that inhibit cap addition also inhibit polyadenylation and sequential transcription of the genome. In contrast, an amino acid substitution, K1651A, in CRVI of L protein that completely inhibits cap methylation results in the hyperpolyadenylation of mRNA. This work reveals that inhibiting cap addition and cap methylation have opposing effects on polyadenylation during VSV mRNA synthesis and provides evidence in support of a link between correct 5′ cap formation and 3′ polyadenylation.
Kinetics of Electrocoagulation of Hexane Extractable Materials in Artificial Bilge Water Treatment

Research on the electrocoagulation (EC) of hexane extractable materials (HEM) has been conducted at the University of New Orleans using a commercial bench-scale EC reactor. A series of EC experiments were performed using a synthetic emulsion with a HEM concentration of approximately 700 mg/L-1. It was confirmed that EC of HEM follows first-order kinetics, and kinetic constants of 0.0441 s-1 and 0.0443 s-1 were obtained from applying both the dispersion and tanks-in-series (TIS) models, respectively. In both cases, R2 was 0.97. Also, the TIS model indicated that each cell of the EC behaves as an independent continuous-stirred tank reactor.
A New Supernova Remnant Coincident with the Slow X-Ray Pulsar AX J1845-0258.

We report on Very Large Array observations in the direction of the recently discovered slow X-ray pulsar AX J1845-0258. In the resulting images, we find a 5a shell of radio emission; the shell is linearly polarized with a nonthermal spectral index. We classify this source as a previously unidentified, young (<8000 yr) supernova remnant (SNR), G29.6+0.1, which we propose is physically associated with AX J1845-0258. The young age of G29.6+0.1 is then consistent with the interpretation that anomalous X-ray pulsars (AXPs) are isolated, highly magnetized neutron stars ("magnetars"). Three of the six known AXPs can now be associated with SNRs; we conclude that AXPs are young ( less, similar10,000 yr) objects and that they are produced in at least 5% of core-collapse supernovae.
Exercise Echocardiography in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Case-Control Study

Background Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Methods To assess the role of exercise echocardiography (EE) in the evaluation of patients with RA, follow-up (mean, 6.7±3.7 years) was retrospectively obtained in 159 patients with RA who underwent EE. Patients were matched for age, gender, and cardiovascular risk factors with 454 controls who underwent EE. Results Patients with RA were more likely to have positive results for ischemia on EE (odds ratio, 2.32; 95% confidence interval, 1.48-3.64; P =.0003). Rest and exercise wall motion score indexes were higher in the RA group (1.14±0.33 and 1.22±0.39, respectively, vs 1.06±0.18 and 1.10±0.24 in controls; P P =.005) per year of RA. Five-year all-cause mortality in subjects with RA with myocardial ischemia on EE was 14.9%, compared with 4.3% in RA subjects without ischemia ( P =.028). Conclusion RA was associated with a 2-fold increased risk for myocardial ischemia on EE; risk increased with the duration of RA. Mortality was increased in patients with RA with ischemia on EE.
New techniques to evaluate the incendivity of insulators

Abstract New techniques for evaluating the incendiary behavior of insulators is presented. The onset of incendive brush discharges in air is evaluated using standard spark probe techniques for the case simulating approaches of an electrically grounded sphere to a charged insulator in the presence of a flammable atmosphere. However, this standard technique is unsuitable for the case of brush discharges that may occur during the charging–separation process for two insulator materials. We present experimental techniques to evaluate this hazard in the presence of a flammable atmosphere which is ideally suited to measure the incendiary nature of micro-discharges upon separation, a measurement never before performed. Other measurement techniques unique to this study include: surface potential measurements of insulators before, during and after contact and separation, as well as methods to verify fieldmeter calibrations using a charge insulator surface opposed to standard high voltage plates.
A theory for spherical and cylindrical laminar premixed flames

Abstract A model has been developed which attempts to predict the behavior of the radially symmetric premixed laminar flame governed by a first order reaction. Provisions have been made for the necessary non-adiabatic conditions, ranges of Damkohler number, ranges of non-dimensional activation energy, arbitrary Lewis number, and either cylindrical or spherical geometry. A technique for the solution of the governing equations has been proposed which allows both of the unknown initial derivatives to be accurately determined in a reasonable amount of computation time. Flame structure, conductive heat loss, diffusion potential, flame stand-off distance, and flame thickness have been examined for spherical symmetry for a variety of Damkohler numbers and reduced activation energies.
Modelling of phase change and material performance in blow moulding and thermoforming

AbstractPhase change dynamics, in particular quiescent crystallinity development and thermal history have been predicted for both polypropylene and heat set poly(ethylene terephthalate). The results obtained are applicable to both blow moulding and thermoforming as the solidification behaviour of these processes is equivalent. Crystallinity predictions are compared with experimental results obtained on an industrial scale blow moulding machine.
Contraceptive Implant Use Among Inner City Teens

Purposes: This study develops a clinical profile of urban teens who selected Norplant for contraception; determines which variables identify the subjects most likely to be compliant with the method; and determines the most common reasons for early termination of use. Methods: Demographic and health history data and reasons for termination of use were collected prospectively for 122 inner city teens who received Norplant. Life table analysis and the Mantel-Haenszel procedure were used to investigate differences between Norplant retainers and terminators. Results: The sample consisted of black and Hispanic teens between the ages of 13–19 years, the majority of whom had one or more children and were in school. One and two year retention rates were 71% and 62%. The highest removal rates occurred during the 3–6 month interval after insertion. A significant finding was that teens who have experienced induced abortion were more likely to retain Norplant. Common reasons for termination of use included general and social concerns, including pregnancy desire. Conclusions: Norplant retention rates for this teen sample were greater than the compliance rates reported for other conventional methods. Similar to noncompliance with oral contraceptives, discontinuance of the method was most likely to occur in the first 6 months of use. A history of induced abortion identifies those teens most likely to retain Norplant, suggesting that these teens might evaluate contraceptive risks and benefits differently than those with no abortion history. Pregnancy desire was a common reason for terminating Norplant use.
Developmental changes in the structure of perinatal ruminal epithelium: basal infoldings, glycogen, and glycocalyx.

The rumen of fetal, 12 hour, and 3 day lambs is lined by a non-keratinized epithelium about 400 μ thick which contains a high concentration of glycogen. By 7 days after birth the epithelium is considerably thinner, contains only traces of glycogen, and resembles the keratinizing epithelium of the adult. No glycogen is found in the keratinizing epithelium of 33–35 day lambs. A PAS reactive glycocalyx is seen first on keratinizing cells in epithelium of the 7 day lamb and is noted in ruminal epithelium of all older animals. The basal surface of the epithelium in the fetus and newborn is smooth. Scattered infoldings are seen on the same surface in 7 and 33–35 day lambs; the basal surface of adult ruminal epithelium is covered by microvillous processes. Differentiation of a glycocalyx and a large basal surface area are indicative of the developing transport function of the epithelium.
When mobile is harder than fixed (and vice versa): demystifying security challenges in mobile environments

Sophisticated consumer mobile devices continue to approach the capabilities and extensibility of traditional computing environments. Unfortunately, these new capabilities and applications make mobile devices an enticing target for attackers and malicious software. Due to such threats, the domain of mobile security has been getting a considerable amount of attention. However, current approaches have failed to consider key differences and their practical impact on the security of modern platforms when adopting techniques from non-mobile (or "fixed") environments. To help demystify mobile security and guide future research, we examine the unique challenges of mobile environments ranging from hardware to software to usability, delve in the diverse security models of current mobile platforms, and present our five commandments of mobile security research.
Two New Genera and Species of Aphididae.

In his “Catalogue des Aphides de Belgique,”* Dr. H. Schouteden remarks that he has examined specimens of Drepanosiphum acerifolii Thomas, and concludes “qu’il, s’agit d’un Aphide bien different de nos Drepanosiphum et qui constituera le type d’un genre nouveau; la structure des cornicles n’est nullement celle du genre qui nous occupe.” For some time I have considered the species acerifolii as probably belonging to an undescribed genus. At the suggestion of Mr. H. F. Wilson, of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, who was also of the opinion that it belonged to a new genus, I have made a careful study of the descriptions of Drepanosiphum and its respective species, and have also had the opportunity of comparing acerifolii with D. braggii Gil . and D. platanoides Schrank through the courtesies of Professor C. P. Gillette and Mr. Wilson respectively. *Memoires de la Societe entomologique de Belgique, tome XII, p. 237, 1906.
Impact of diagnosis-timing indicators on measures of safety, comorbidity, and case mix groupings from administrative data sources.

Context: Many attempts to identify hospital complications rely on secondary diagnoses from billing data. To be meaningful, diagnosis codes must distinguish between diagnoses after admission and those existing before admission. Objective: To assess the influence of diagnoses at admission on patient safety, comorbidity, severity measures, and case mix groupings for Medicare reimbursement. Design: Cross-sectional association of various diagnosis-based clinical and performance measures with and without diagnosis present on admission. Setting: Hospital discharges from Mayo Clinic Rochester hospitals in 2005 (N = 60,599). Patients: All hospital inpatients including surgical, medical, pediatric, maternity, psychiatric, and rehabilitation patients. About 33% of patients traveled more than 120 miles for care. Main Outcome Measures: Hospital patient safety indicators, comorbidity, severity, and case mix measures with and without diagnoses present at admission. Results: Over 90% of all diagnoses were present at admission whereas 27.1% of all inpatients had a secondary diagnosis coded in-hospital. About one-third of discharges with a safety indicator were flagged because of a diagnosis already present at admission, more likely among referral patients. In contrast, 87% of postoperative hemorrhage, 22% of postoperative hip fractures, and 54% of foreign bodies left in wounds were coded as in-hospital conditions. Severity changes during hospitalization were observed in less than 8% of discharges. Slightly over 3% of discharges were assigned to higher weight diagnosis-related groups based on an in-hospital complication. Conclusions: In general, many patient safety indicators do not reliably identify adverse hospital events, especially when applied to academic referral centers. Except as noted, conditions recorded after admission have minimal impact on comorbidity and severity measures or on Medicare reimbursement.
Causes of congenital heart diseases: old and new modes, mechanisms, and models.

This is a personal perspective on what has evolved over the past three decades concerning our knowledge of the causes of congenital heart disease (CHD).ls 2 An attempt will be made not only to evaluate recent advances in our understanding of traditional inheritance and developmental mechanisms but to look at the emerging concepts of nontraditional inheritance as they may apply to CHD. This presentation will not review recurrence risk figures or counseling recommendations or list CHD associated with chromosomal anomalies, single mutant genes, and known or suspected cardiovascular teratogens. Such data have been discussed in a recent publication.2 Although there are some observers who believe that a CHD such as ventricular septal defect (VSD) occurs largely at random, our group has attempted to search for nonrandom cases and families who might illuminate our understanding of causes-and might ultimately lead to useful strategies for prevention. Because the number of cases of specific anatomic or core pathogenetic lesions has not been as large at individual centers as one might wish for to produce a satisfactory epidemiologic study, we have for many years resorted to combining data from several centers (as long as the populations, study designs, and methods of ascertainment appeared to be comparable). We have done this with some trepidation, but find that this expediency has lately been dignified with the term meta-analysis. Investigators who are trying to introduce new concepts frequently encounter valid criticism, which forces them to reexamine their positions and refine their proposals to approximate more closely the
Measuring the value of potable water in partially monetized rural economies

: A pilot study was conducted to test the potential of the Contingent Valuation Methodology (CVM) to reveal the value of non-market goods in a partially monetized subsistence economy. CVM was used to estimate the willingness to pay, in the form of labor, for potable drinking water in a rural river-based community located in the Esmeraldas state of northwest Ecuador. Surveys were administered by personal interviews with families living along the waterways of the Santiago river system who used river water for cooking, drinking, washing, and waste disposal. The mean willingness to pay represented over 23 percent of real income, or 1.4 days per week for a period of one year. Results of multiple regression analysis identified the history of water-related health problems and the number of working adults in a household as significant determinants of willingness to pay. Using a non-monetary, rather than a monetary measure of willingness to pay may provide a more accurate representation of value in a subsistence economy where the use of money is limited. The potential for CVM to measure the benefits of non-market goods in rural developing regions whose economies are only partially monetized is demonstrated.