cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Legislation, Policies and Regulations Relevant to Coastal Zone Management in Belize: A Review and Proposals for Better Implementation of the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1998

The Coastal Zone Management (CZM) Act of Belize was enacted in 1998 and reflects the trend in legislation in Belize toward more accountability and transparency for government actions and more direct participation by the public in decision making, particularly concerning public resources. The legislation also recognizes that conservation and development of the coastal zone necessary to assure sustainable development requires an integrated approach to coastal zone management to deal with the complexities arising from the natural and human interactions in the area where land meets sea. The CZM Act relies, however, on diverse legislation and authorities for implementation, and much of the legislation is outdated and does not reflect the current situation in the country or address the present needs. In Belize, as in most jurisdictions, a great deal of environmental, natural resources and land use legislation preceded the development of a coastal zone management program. And, as in most jurisdictions, coastal zone management has had to take into account these existing authorities. The purpose of this study is to review possibilities for better implementation of the CZM Act of 1998 through integration of sound coastal zone management policy into the planning, policy development and decision making of these authorities. This first section of this paper reviews the laws and regulations of Belize relevant to integrated coastal zone management and discusses some of the perceived strengths and weaknesses, overlaps and gaps in the legislation or its implementation in the context of coastal management. General recommendations for improvement are also included in this discussion. The second part of the paper summarizes recommendations for legislation, regulations and policy development to better achieve integrated coastal zone management. Finally, specific amendments are provided for the Coastal Zone Management (CZM) Act in Appendix I. Appendix II provides a draft proposed policy for Marine National Lands. Appendix III and IV include regulations for implementing several provisions of the CZM Act. Proposed modifications to the Fisheries Bill are included at Appendix V. Appendix VI includes the proposed Marine Dredging Management Policy. Appendix VII contains a review of the current law concerning citizen standing. Appendix VIII discusses a review and recommendations on marine environmental treaties. Appendix IX provides information on the consultation process used in developing this study.
Risk perception for acquaintance sexual aggression: A social-cognitive perspective

Abstract Beliefs that people hold about sources of harm and their personal susceptibility to harm have been shown to play an important role in their subsequent self-protection. With respect to acquaintance sexual aggression, women generally report low levels of perceived personal risk and, thus, low level preparedness to prevent or protect against this form of threat. In order to develop effective resistance efforts, a more complete understanding is needed of factors that shape perception of risk and how these factors are likely to influence—both positively and negatively—women's risk reduction and self-protection. This article addresses this need by reviewing recent literature on risk perception and identifying relevant applications of theory and findings to women's perception of risk for acquaintance sexual aggression.
Low-Density Lipoprotein, Non–High-Density Lipoprotein, and Apolipoprotein B as Targets of Lipid-Lowering Therapy

To the Editor: Grundy discusses the virtues of low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol, non–high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, and apolipoprotein B as targets of lipid-lowering therapy.1 However, the only valid reason to treat any lipid disorders (other than markedly lowering elevated triglycerides to prevent pancreatitis) is the prevention of atherothrombotic disease (ATD) or, if ATD is extant, then its stabilization/regression. I have published a risk factor graph utilizing the cholesterol retention fraction (CRF, or [LDL−HDL]/LDL) on the ordinate and systolic blood pressure (SBP) on the abscissa.2 …
A psychospiritual, family-centered theory of care for mothers in the NICU.

Weighing less than three pounds four ounces, very low birthweight infants account for 1.4% of births and 46% of infant deaths in the U.S. Mothers of these infants often endure significant suffering while witnessing their children struggle for life. By examining their psychological and theological needs, and drawing on a mother’s lived experience, this article develops a psychospiritual, family-centered theory of care to aid chaplains in providing spiritual care to mothers in the NICU.
Outcomes of Sexual Behaviors Among Sexual Minority Youth

Very little is known about outcomes of sexual behavior for sexual minority youth. In this chapter, I review relevant literature and draw on findings from my own research to initiate an inquiry into this important topic. I begin with a brief overview of the range of sexual behaviors of sexual minority adolescents and young adults. Next, I describe what we know about positive and negative outcomes of sexual behavior among sexual minority youth. This discussion takes into account physical outcomes, psychological and emotional outcomes, and outcomes related to identity development. Lastly, I discuss the limitations of prior research and propose several goals for future research to expand our understanding of this topic. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cracks in the city: Addressing the constraints and potentials of urban design

Abstract The term ‘crack’ is used in this paper as a metaphor for the fractured discontinuities encountered in the physical and social context of American cities. Cracks are the ‘in‐between’ spaces—residual, underutilized and often deteriorating—that frequently divide physical and social worlds. The paper sets out to explain why cracks are a common characteristic of the American urban landscape, by investigating the factors that have contributed to their formation. The study also lays out some normative objectives for transforming in‐between spaces, and for practising a socially responsible urban design, by discussing issues such as user empowerment, collaborative design, contextualism and flexibility of form. The role, responsibility and constraints of the urban designer in effecting change are discussed, and a call is extended for broadening the cultural, moral and political content of the profession.
Revisiting Linkages between Openness, Education and Economic Growth: System GMM Approach

For 106 countries over 1969-2004, this paper revisits the relationship between openness, education and economic growth using the System Generalized Method of Moment (GMM) approach. Trade and growth are usually positively correlated and capital formation appears to be an important channel through which trade brings growth. There generally exists a positive relationship between FDI inflow and economic growth for a subset of non-OECD countries. The System GMM estimator improves substantially the estimate of the impact of education on growth relative to the models which focus on within-country changes in education, adding information on cross-country variation in education levels.
Low-risk aversive group treatments, physiological feedback, and booster sessions for smoking cessation

A 2×2×2 factorial design with 64 clients compared the effects of Taste Satiation (TS) and Focused Smoking (FS) treatments, breath CO and spirograph testing feedback, and booster sessions available for 6 months posttreatment. TS tended to be more effective overall than FS, but the physiological testing and feedback combined with FS was as effective as TS alone. Booster sessions appeared to have a negative influence on maintenance of abstinence, but a positive influence on minimizing the daily smoking rate of recidivists through 3 months. Initial success in achieving abstinence was useful in predicting abstinence at 6 months.
A MODEL SYSTEM FOR LONG-TERM SERUM-FREE SUSPENSION ORGAN CULTURE OF HUMAN FETAL TISSUES : EXPERIMENTS ON DIGITS AND SKIN FROM MULTIPLE BODY REGIONS

We have optimized a suspension organ culture (SOC) system previously used to study human fetal skin in vitro. Eleven types of media were used to culture fetal digits and skin samples (ranging from 59–91 days of estimated gestational age) for periods of 3 or 4 weeks. The cultures were supplemented with 0%–10% bovine calf serum and exposed to 5%–45% oxygen atmospheres. Optimal conditions, which were selected based upon the morphologic and histologic properties of the cultured tissues, were: DMEM-F12 medium in a serum-free environment with a 45% oxygen atmosphere. The refined SOC system supports the maintenance and/or continued development of the epidermis and dermis of trunk, back, scalp, and digital skin, developing hair follicles, nails, and glands. Overall, development and differentiation mimicked the in vivo state more closely than that observed when using other in vitro culture systems. The effects of bovine calf serum and oxygen levels are presented, and the potential for manipulating the environment of this system for studying mechanisms of cutaneous development is also discussed.
Drag on a permeable cylinder in steady flow at moderate Reynolds numbers

Abstract The settling velocities of permeable bodies are of interest in fluid–solid reactors, including gas fluidized beds, for example. To better understand this phenomenon, steady flow past permeable cylinders has been investigated both computationally and experimentally. There are two dimensionless parameters in this study: the Reynolds number based on the free-stream fluid velocity and the diameter of the cylinder, and the ratio of the permeability of the cylinder to the square of the cylinder diameter. Using a commercially available computational fluid dynamics (CFD) package, drag coefficients have been computed for flow past a single, permeable cylinder for Reynolds numbers of 10, 100 and 1000, and for permeability ratios ranging from 10 -6 to 10. In a wind tunnel, drag coefficients have been measured for Reynolds numbers ranging from 800 to 10,000 and for permeability ratios of 1.7×10 -5 and 6.6×10 -5 . In the limit of very low permeability, the computed drag coefficient approaches that for a solid cylinder, as expected. In the limit of very high permeability, the computed drag coefficient asymptotically approaches zero, a phenomenon that can be predicted using D’Arcy’s Law. Between these extremes in permeability, however, a distinct dependence of the behavior of the computed drag coefficient on Reynolds number is observed. For higher Reynolds numbers, an increase in drag of up to 50% over that for a solid cylinder has been computed while for lower Reynolds numbers, very little change in drag is observed. The computational results are in good agreement with experimental results obtained in a wind tunnel; for example, a cylinder with a cross-sectional void fraction of 92.5% was found to have a drag coefficient 42% higher than a similar solid cylinder at a Reynolds number of 1000 (for which the computational results predict an increase of 25%). The computational results are also in general agreement with the limited amount of existing experimental and computational data for permeable spheres.
Overview of a Multi-User High Energy Physics Control and Data Acquisition System

This paper gives an overview of the present state of the experimental area controls system at Fermilab. Both hardware and software systems are covered.
White privilege, oppression, and racial identity development: implications for supervision

Although the U.S. population is becoming increasingly diverse, the race of individuals entering the counseling profession remains predominantly White (S. P. Pack-Brown, 1999). The authors define and explore the connection between White privilege and oppression and encourage the use of racial identity models to address these constructs with counselor trainees in supervision.
Bimolecular reactions involving the radical site of the distonic ion ·CH2CH2CH2CO+

A systematic comparison of the reactivity of the γ-dictonic ion ·CH2CH2CH2CO+ to that of its even-electron analog, CH3CH2CH2CO+, and a related conventional radical cation, ionized cyclopentanone, was carried out using a dual-cell Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer. Each of the ions exhibits unique chemical reactivity. The conventional radical cation reacts with neutral reagents primarily by electron transfer. The even-electron acylium ion CH3CH2CH2CO+ is unreactive towards most of the neutral molecules studied; slow proton transfer is the only reaction observed with a few reagents. In sharp contrast to the behavior of these two ions, the distonic ion undergoes a variety of reactions with each neutral reagent. Most of these reactions involve a homolytic bond cleavage in the neutral reagent, leading to abstraction of an atom or a radical by the ion. Although reactions directly involving the charge site are not common for this ion, many of its reactions are likely to be catalyzed by the charge site. Initial bond formation at the charge site stabilizes the collision complex, extending its lifetime. This binding may also favorably position the neutral molecule for a subsequent reaction with the radical site of the ion. Accordingly, relatively facile radical abstraction reactions were observed for those reagents which react through a favorable six-membered transition state after bonding to the charge site. These neutral reagents react similarly, but at a slower rate, with the lower homolog, ·CH2CH2CO+, presumably because a six-membered transition state is not accessible in this case.
Interstitial Collagenase (MMP-1) Expression in Human Carotid Atherosclerosis

Background In human atherosclerosis, most clinical events occur when plaque integrity is compromised and hemorrhage and thrombosis result. One mechanism for this might be the release by plaque cells of matrix-degrading proteases, such as interstitial collagenase (matrix metalloproteinase-1, MMP-1), which degrades two major plaque structural proteins, types I and III collagen. This study was undertaken to determine whether MMP-1 is expressed in human atherosclerotic plaques. Methods and Results To determine the cellular source and location of MMP-1 in human carotid atherosclerotic lesions, in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry were performed on 20 endarterectomy specimens. Six nonatherosclerotic carotid arteries also were studied. Intense MMP-1 expression (mRNA and protein) was detected in a subset of plaque macrophages located at the borders of the lipid cores adjacent to fibrous caps and shoulder regions. Subsets of plaque smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells also expressed MMP-1. There was...
Pressurization of two layered incompressible orthotropic tubes

Abstract The effect of internal pressure an a closed tube of incompressible orthotropic material is analyzed. The cross section of the tube consists of two regions each having a different set of material properties. An exact solution for the stresses, strains and radial displacement is obtained based on the theory of orthotropic elasticity. The exact solution is simplified for thin walled tubes. The presence of a second layer is shown to reduce the stress in the original layer by more than the ratio of wall thickness. In general, the stresses in each layer are unequal. A relation is presented which assures the existence of equal circumferential stress in each layer
Rapid incorporation of lipids into macromolecules during experimental decay of invertebrates: Initiation of geopolymer formation

Abstract Diagenetic alteration is critical for the preservation of fossil cuticles of plant and animal origin and to the formation of kerogen. The process takes place over millions of years, but the stage at which it is initiated is not known. Laboratory decay experiments were carried out on shrimps, scorpions and cockroaches to monitor changes in the chitin–protein of the arthropod cuticle and associated lipids. The cockroach and scorpion exoskeleton remained largely unaltered morphologically, but the shrimp experienced rapid decomposition within a month, which progressed through the 44 week duration of the experiment as revealed using electron microscopy. Mass spectrometry and 13 C NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) spectroscopy revealed the association of an n -alkyl component with labile lipids, such as fatty acids with up to 24 carbon atoms, which were incorporated into the decaying macromolecule. The scorpion and cockroach cuticle did not reveal the incorporation of additional lipids, indicating that decay is important in initiating in situ lipid association. This experiment provides evidence that lipids can become associated with carbohydrate and proteinaceous macromolecules during the very early stages of decay, representing the first stage in the transformation process that contributes to the aliphatic rich composition ubiquitous in organic fossils and kerogen.
Profiles and Correlates of Children’s Self-Reported Coping Strategies Using a Cluster Analytic Approach

We used cluster analysis to identify children’s coping profiles and to examine self- and parent-reported correlates of coping in a community sample. Participants included 135 children (M age = 11.27, s.d. = .59) recruited from local public elementary and junior high schools and 116 of their parents. Analyses included hierarchical cluster analysis (Ward’s method), followed by non-hierarchical (k-means) cluster analysis to confirm the cluster solution. Results yielded four clusters reflecting high, active, low, and indiscriminant patterns of coping strategies. Members of the active coping group self-reported the fewest symptoms of distress and the greatest number of prosocial competencies after controlling for social desirability. No differences emerged for parent-reported psychosocial functioning across coping profiles. Our results suggest that a combination of active coping strategies may be associated with better psychosocial functioning than a combination of active and avoidant coping strategies.
Quantum Transport of Two-dimensional Dirac Fermions in SrMnBi(2)

We report two-dimensional quantum transport in SrMnBi${}_{2}$ single crystals. The linear energy dispersion leads to unusual nonsaturated linear magnetoresistance since all Dirac fermions occupy the lowest Landau level in the quantum limit. The transverse magnetoresistance exhibits a crossover at a critical field ${B}^{*}$ from semiclassical weak-field ${B}^{2}$ dependence to the high-field linear-field dependence. With an increase in temperature, the critical field ${B}^{*}$ increases and the temperature dependence of ${B}^{*}$ satisfies the quadratic behavior which is attributed to the Landau-level splitting of the linear energy dispersion. The effective magnetoresistant mobility ${\ensuremath{\mu}}_{\text{MR}}\ensuremath{\sim}3400$ cm${}^{2}$/V s is derived. Angular-dependent magnetoresistance and quantum oscillations suggest dominant two-dimensional (2D) Fermi surfaces. Our results illustrate the dominant 2D Dirac fermion states in SrMnBi${}_{2}$ and imply that bulk crystals with Bi square nets can be used to study low-dimensional electronic transport commonly found in 2D materials such as graphene.
The 16S-like, 5.8S and 23S-like rRNAs of the two varieties of Cryptococcus neoformans: sequence, secondary structure, phylogenetic analysis and restriction fragment polymorphisms

The nucleotide sequences of the 16S-like, 5.8S and 23S-like rDNAs from the two varieties of Cryptococcus neoformans, C. neoformans var. neoformans and C. neoformans var. gattii, were determined. The rRNA locus has the typical eukaryote organization of 16S-5.8S-23S with the 16S-like and 5.8S rRNA genes separated by a 124-nucleotide spacer and the 5.8S and 23S-like rRNA genes separated by a 187-nucleotide spacer in each strain. The C. neoformans var. neoformans and C. neoformans var. gattii 16S-like, 5.8S and 23S-like rRNAs are, respectively 1802, 158, and 3358 nucleotides in length and share > 99% nucleotide sequence identity, a finding which strongly supports the present taxonomic classification of two varieties within a species. Comparative structure analysis was used to construct secondary-structure models for the deduced 16S-like and 5.8S-23S-like rRNA sequences, which are similar to those of other fungal rRNAs. The C. neoformans 16S-like and 23S-like rRNA sequences were aligned with other eukaryote sequences based on secondary and higher-order structures predicted by comparative structure analysis for phylogenetic analysis. There was good correspondence between the 16S-like and 23S-like derived phylogenetic trees. The closest known fungal relative is Trichosporon beigelii. Southern blot analysis revealed one C. neoformans strain with two types of DNA repeats coding for rRNA which differed in size by about 1000 bp. Restriction fragment length polymorphisms in the rDNA locus provide useful markers for the study of epidemiology and pathogenesis of C. neoformans infections.
Ontogeny of tonotopic organization of brain stem auditory nuclei in the chicken: implications for development of the place principle

The morphological development of the cochlea begins in the base or midbasal region and spreads toward the apex. In adults, the base responds maximally to high-frequency sounds and lower frequencies are represented progressively toward the apex. This predicts that responses to sound should occur initially to high frequencies and gradually change to include lower frequencies. Paradoxically, animals respond first to relatively low frequencies and last to high frequencies. We have previously proposed that this discrepancy results from an ontogenetic change in spatial coding of frequency along the cochlea (Rubel et al., '76). According to this model, only the basal end of the cochlea transduces sound early in development but it responds to low frequencies. During maturation the representation of low and midrange frequencies shifts apically and the base becomes responsive to high frequencies. This hypothesis predicts that the tonotopic organization within the central nervous system should change during development; neurons at any given location within an auditory nucleus should become maximally responsive to successively higher frequency sounds during development. In the present study this prediction was tested by using microelectrode recording procedures to map the tonotopic organization of nucleus magnocellullaris (NM) and nucleus laminaris (NL), first- and second-order auditory nuclei, in chickens at three ages: embryonic day 17, 1 day posthatch, and 2-4 weeks posthatch. The characteristic frequencies of neurons having the same anatomical location were quantitatively compared across ages. The tonotopic order in NM and NL was similar at all ages; responses to high-frequency sounds were recorded anteromedially and lower frequencies were located progressively more caudolaterally. However, there was a striking quantitative change in tonotopic organization. Neurons at a given location in both nuclei became maximally responsive to progressively higher frequencies during development. The characteristic frequencies of neurons in embryos and newly hatched chicks averaged, respectively, 1.00 (+/- 0.06, S.E.M.) and 0.34 (+/- 0.04) octaves lower than their predicted adult values. All regions in both nuclei showed a statistically significant increase in characteristic frequency during development except the most posterolateral (low-frequency) sector. Too few neurons were recorded from this region to be able to reliably estimate characteristic frequency. These results support the hypothesis that the spatial coding of frequency along the cochlea shifts during development.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Hydromorphone polymer implant: A potential alternative to methadone maintenance

Although methadone maintenance remains the best available treatment for opioid addiction, the need for daily oral dosing limits the effectiveness of methadone as opioid substitution therapy. Limitations of methadone maintenance include the administrative costs and burdensome time commitment associated with daily clinic visits, the danger of illicit diversion and accidental overdose associated with oral dosing, the low rate of treatment retention, and inadequate treatment capacity. A new opioid delivery device awaiting approval for clinical use may overcome some of these limitations. The device, a button-size polymer containing hydromorphone, releases near constant levels of opioid when implanted subcutaneously. Because of its location and duration of effect, the polymer may eliminate the need for daily clinic visits, reduce the costs and time constraints of treatment, reduce the risk of illicit diversion, provide an incentive for compliance with initial methadone maintenance treatment, and increase treatment capacity and retention.
A Model for Designing Library Instruction for Distance Learning

Providing library instruction in distance learning environments presents a unique set of challenges for instructional librarians. Innovations in computer-mediated communication and advances in cognitive science research provide the opportunity for designing library instruction that meets a variety of student information seeking needs. Using a systematic and dynamic model when designing library instruction can increase student search proficiency.
Single-Molecule Probing of Mixed-Mode Adsorption at a Chromatographic Interface

This paper reports the use of single-molecule spectroscopy to observe directly the presence of two disparate types of adsorption sites on a liquid chromatographic surface. This so-called mixed-mode adsorption is believed to be the physical origin of tailing of proteins and pharmaceuticals in HPLC. Single-molecule spectroscopy was used to probe the organic dye 1,1‘-dioctadecyl-3,3,3‘,3‘-tetramethylindocarbocyanine perchlorate (DiI), which was adsorbed to the interface of water and a silica surface chemically modified with dimethyloctadecylsiloxane (C18). Using low concentrations of interfacial DiI, single dye molecules were isolated by confocal microscopy, with the fluorescence from the illuminated interface monitored as a function of time. Two types of adsorption events are shown to be distinguishable by the level of fluctuations on their fluorescence signals: (1) laterally diffusing molecules having strong fluctuations on their fluorescence due to the random walk of the fluorophor about the Gaussian bea...
Timing of corticosteroid therapy is critical to prevent retinal ganglion cell loss in experimental optic neuritis.

Optic neuritis is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the optic nerve that often occurs in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).1–3 The disease is marked by acute loss of vision that often improves over several weeks as inflammation resolves; however, 40% to 60% of patients are left with some level of permanent vision loss.4 Permanent vision loss correlates with thinning of the retinal nerve fiber layer,5–7 suggesting that axonal damage of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) is responsible for the vision loss. The corticosteroid methylprednisolone is given intravenously, followed by oral prednisone, to some patients with acute optic neuritis.1,3,8 This treatment shortens the visual recovery period, but steroid treatment does not improve final visual acuity.1,3,8 These results suggest that steroids administered after optic neuritis onset can hasten the resolution of inflammation, but damage to RGC axons might already have been triggered and not reversed by steroid treatment. Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is the most widely used model of MS and results in inflammation of the central nervous system, including optic nerve inflammation similar to optic neuritis.9,10 SJL/J mice immunized with proteolipid protein (PLP) develop relapsing-remitting EAE,9 resembling the most common disease course in MS patients.2 Optic neuritis develops in approximately two-thirds of the eyes by day 11 after immunization in this model and leads to axonal injury and death of RGCs by day 14.11,12 Given that inflammation mediates RGC loss in experimental optic neuritis, we hypothesized that the suppression of inflammation with corticosteroids should prevent RGC damage. However, based on visual outcomes and nerve fiber layer changes seen in patients with optic neuritis, it is unclear whether this is true or whether there is a critical time necessary for administration of corticosteroids to have these effects. In the present study, EAE mice were treated systemically with two different corticosteroids (dexamethasone and methylprednisolone) both before and after optic nerve inflammation developed. RGC survival, incidence of optic neuritis, and EAE disease course were compared in order to determine whether corticosteroids have the potential to prevent RGC loss.
Drosophila and mammalian circadian systems: Similarities on the surface, some differences at the core*

No model systems have contributed more to our understanding of underlying mechanisms than Drosophila and nocturnal rodents. Much about the underlying molecular and cell biology of the circadian clocks are similar and this has sped discovery of the mechanisms of rhythm generation. At higher levels of organization the timing systems of mammals and flies differ in fundamental ways. These differences provide comparative insights into the adaptive nature of circadian timing systems.
The design of belief network-based systems for price forecasting

Abstract ARCO1 is a knowledge-based system that models the crude oil market as a belief networ and uses scenario generation and Monte-Carlo analysis to forecast oil prices. From an applications-oriented viewpoint, its purpose was to incorporate recent advances in artificial intelligence and decision analysis into ARCO's forecasting procedures. From a basic research viewpoint, its primary objective was to investigate the ability of knowledge-based technology to strengthen and broaden the tools used by professional forecasters. ARCO1's development raised a variety of issues concerning the relationship between diagnosis and forecasting, the relative propriety of domain-based and shell-based representations in an AI system, and the role that AI can play in strengthening the existing tools of heavily automated domains (as opposed to its traditional role of introducing automation to exclusively human domains). This paper outlines these issues, and provides a case study in the design of intelligent systems whose knowledge bases are structured as belief networks.
Endoscopic management of walled-off pancreatic necrosis

Abstract Pancreatic necrosis, which can be associated with organ failure and infection, occurs in approximately 15% of patients with acute pancreatitis (AP). Indications for endoscopic or other interventions include infected necrosis or symptomatic sterile necrosis. Delayed intervention leads to improved outcomes, and it is generally recommended that interventions are performed at least 4 to 6 weeks after the onset of AP. It is also critical to accurately characterize the anatomical extent and level of organization of the necrosis and to preoperatively differentiate walled-off necrosis from pancreatic pseudocysts. Options for debridement include endoscopic transmural (transgastric or transduodenal) necrosectomy, percutaneous drainage alone, combined percutaneous and endoscopic drainage, and retroperitoneal, laparoscopic, or open surgical debridement. Most available data now support a "step-up" approach to the management of patients with severe AP complicated by infected or symptomatic walled-off pancreatic necrosis with more invasive options reserved for patients who do not respond to initial conservative management. Regardless of the approach to debridement used, patients with pancreatic necrosis, particularly those with infected necrosis, are best treated by an experienced multidisciplinary clinical team.
Rationale for Systematic Vocabulary Development: Antidote for State Mandates.

The authors assert that vocabulary development is one of the most important things teachers can promote for students—cognitively, culturally, socially, and in preparation for standardized tests. A broad-based review of the literature reveals solid reasons for using systematic vocabulary instruction, which is especially helpful with youngsters from second-language or disenfranchised backgrounds. Yet, in U.S. schools, systematic instruction in vocabulary has been cyclical rather than sustained. The authors note that learners from Latin-language backgrounds likely have an unappreciated advantage in learning difficult words. The specialized, Latin-derivative terms that occur infrequently in common usage tend to occur frequently on standardized tests. Several research-supported ways to improve vocabulary acquisition are highlighted, including one that uses a variation on signing. The authors offer a “community of language” approach and show how wide reading can be amplified by intentional, frequent, day-to-day use of specific terms by school faculty and staff.
Hot, Humid Air Partially Decreases the Response to Nasal Challenge with Antigen:

Allergic rhinitis affects individuals in multiple environmental settings. We hypothesized that the environmental conditions of temperature and humidity had no effect on the early response to nasal ...
Air-turbulence and temperature gradients reduced in plant growth chambers by small-hole diffuser walls

A new, simple, and relatively inexpensive method is described for smoothly introducing into plant growth chambers the large volumes of preconditioned air necessary to maintain great uniformity of temperature and humidity. Preconditioned air from a plenum is introduced into the chamber through diffuser-walls containing numerous evenly spaced holes.
Defining the expectation gap: a comparison of industry needs and existing game development curriculum

When developing a game curriculum, one of several key areas to consider is the type of skills needed by the game industry. The purpose of this quantitative survey research is to compare the hiring needs of industry for recent college graduates seeking game developer positions against game development curriculum currently available at post-secondary institutions. One survey was given to industry participants and a similar survey was given to academic participants. Four major categories, abilities, technical skills, supporting knowledge areas, and contextual fluency, each had specific subcategories that were rated by both industry and academia. A t-test of independent means was then used to analyze to determine if there is an expectation gap between the game industry needs and academic program curriculum. This paper details the results of the surveys and provides a limited discussion on how these results might impact game developer curriculum.
Response properties of neurons in inferior colliculi of mice made susceptible to audiogenic seizures by acoustic priming.

Abstract Mice not normally susceptible to audiogenic seizures can be rendered so by exposing them to a brief intense sound during a certain developmental period (acoustic priming). To determine the effects of priming on central auditory activity, single-unit extracellular recordings were obtained from the inferior colliculi of primed C57BL/6J mice. Response patterns were observed in primed mice that were not found in nonprimed mice of the same strain. These responses were characterized by prolonged discharges to clicks and/or afterdischarges to tones in 19 of 265 units studied. For the overall sample of units, absolute thresholds were consistently elevated, low-frequency responsiveness was diminished, and the proportion of units displaying response patterns that involve inhibitory influence was reduced (onset, off, inhibition, pauser, long-latency). The incidence and rates of spontaneous activity in primed mice did not differ significantly from those found in nonprimed mice. The data suggest that acoustic priming may increase behavioral responsiveness to intense sounds by disrupting the interplay of excitation and inhibition in the central auditory system.
Two-phase reactive particle flow through normal shock waves

Abstract An analysis is presented for the steady one-dimensional flow behind a normal shock wave of a compressible gas containing small spherical particles of solid propellant. The solids mass fraction is assumed large enough to require that the void volume fraction be retained as a variable in the governing conservation equations. The particles are ignited by the shocked air and by viscous interaction. Propellant gases are then generated which depend on the instantaneous size of the particles and on the linear burning rate. The latter is assumed dependent upon the local pressure and the particle temperature. These calculations are of interest because of the potential hazards of such particle flows, in that extreme pressures are predicted within the relaxation zone, pressures even greater than those calculated for the final equilibrium conditions. The results stress the importance of the Mach number of the normal (strong shock) and the energy content of the propellant (J/kg).
Next generation sky survey (NGSS)

The Next Generation Sky Survey (NGSS) is a Medium Explorer currently in Phase A study, with launch planned for 2007. NGSS will map the entire sky with unprecedented sensitivity from 3.5 to 23 microns. With over 500,000 times the sensitivity of COBE at 3.5 and 4.7 microns, and a thousand times that of IRAS at 12 and 25 microns, NGSS will establish an essential database for testing theories of the origins of planets, stars, and galaxies, and is the necessary precursor for NGST. The science objectives of NGSS include finding the most luminous galaxies in the universe, and the closest stars to the sun. NGSS will achieve these dramatic advances while minimizing mission cost and risk by using flight-proven technology for its spacecraft bus components and cryogenic instrument, as well as 2MASS data processing software.
Shifts in blocking temperature spectra for magnetite powders as a function of grain size and applied magnetic field

Abstract Partial thermoremanent magnetization (PTRM) spectra have been obtained for a variety of sized magnetite powders dispersed in an inert matrix, the PTRMs having been acquired in a wide range of magnetic fields. Peaks in the spectra, indicative of the range of blocking temperatures in the samples, shift downward from the vicinity of the Curie temperature as the field strength is increased, in qualitative accord with theory. Extremely small (100 nm) colloidal powders show a strong dependence of the shape of the PTRM spectrum on concentration within the inert matrix, with the blocking temperature spectrum rising dramatically with increased clustering of the powder particles. The rule of additivity of PTRMs is roughly satisfied by the samples with some significant deviations.
Cardiac transplantation in the older recipient: excellent long-term survival based on pretransplant screening

Abstract Background Cardiac transplantation has become the established treatment of choice for eligible patients with end-stage congestive heart failure. Older recipients (over the age of 60) are sometimes regarded as too high risk for transplant. Because chronological age is frequently disparate from physiologic age, we hypothesized that with careful selection after a comprehensive screening evaluation we would be able to achieve comparable survival and quality of life in an older population. Methods Between January 1989 and December 2002, 240 de novo adult cardiac transplants were performed for 74 female and 176 male patients. Prior to listing for cardiac transplantation, the patients were evaluated to exclude significant comorbidities that would limit survival or functional capacity postsurgery. In patients over the age of 60, particularly rigorous testing was conducted to eliminate significant extracardiac disease. Results The patients are divided in this analysis into three groups based on age at transplant (age 18 to 45, 46 to 59, and 60 years or older). Older recipients experienced similar rates of moderately severe cellular rejection (ISHLT grade 3A/ B). Survival as derived by Kaplan-Meier analysis was equivalent for all groups by Mantel-Cox logrank test ( P = NS). The survival for patients older than age 60 was 83.1%, 73.7%, 67.7%, 57.4%, and 43.1% at 1,3, 5, 7, and 10 years posttransplant, respectively. Conclusion We conclude that chronological age over 60 years old should not exclude a patient from the potential long-term benefit of cardiac transplant, ensuring added longevity and excellent quality of life.
A maneuverable, pneumatic underwater glider

A coastal (100 meter depth) underwater glider has been developed to serve as a platform for testing advanced perception, planning, and control algorithms to improve glider efficiency and performance. The glider's buoyancy engine is pneumatically powered, and capable of generating large changes in buoyancy. Powerful and fast moving mass actuators allow the vehicle to achieve a large range of pitch attitudes and an unrestricted range of roll angles. The ability to complete a full 360 degree roll permits the use of asymmetric geometries like wing camber or dihedral and to assess their performance benefits. In this paper, the mechanical and electrical design of the glider is discussed in detail.
High-speed low-voltage ultraviolet light source

A novel quasi-spark gap has been designed and constructed with high-speed and low-spark voltage characteristics. Ultraviolet light generating sparks can be operated at a rate of up to 25 kHz with pulses as low as 28 V. The photon pulse has a rise time of <10 nsec. Negligible breakdown delay and subnanosecond jitter have also been observed. It is an efficient UV point source capable of fast triggering and synchronization. A UV photon generation efficiency of 10−3 was estimated. The spectral properties of this gap were also analyzed. This gap has been incorporated into a picosecond CO2 laser system to trigger a plasma shutter in the generation of picosecond laser pulses.
Predictors of Retention and BMI Loss or Stabilization in Obese Youth Enrolled in a Weight Loss Intervention.

Summary Objective To evaluate predictors for intervention dropout and successful reduction of metabolic syndrome risk factors among obese children enrolled in a short-term, clinic-based weight-loss intervention. Design, setting, subjects Retrospective database review of 1080 children 8 months to 17years. seen a pediatric obesity clinic. Interventions Behavior modification counseling to induce change in dietary and exercise choices. Main outcome measures (1) Pre-/post-intervention change in body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, blood pressure, glucose, insulin, and cholesterol (LDL, HDL, & total). (2) Predictors of successful decrease in BMI and clinic drop-out. Analysis Paired t -tests for pre-/post-intervention comparisons. Linear regression to assess predictors of success and predictors of drop-out, with adjustment for age, gender, race, insurance status, and service area. Results Among children evaluated, adolescent females were most likely to achieve successful decrease in BMI, insulin level, and LDL cholesterol post-intervention. Nearly 40% of children dropped out early in the intervention. Predictors of drop out included age Conclusions Clinic-based weight loss interventions can lead to successful improvements in BMI and other metabolic parameters in pediatric populations and may be more likely among adolescent females than in younger children or males. Drop-out is common, particularly among younger children, children with public insurance and children scheduled for follow-up in the summer. Identification of these drop-out predictors in individual patients may help in targeting children likely to succeed in short-term, clinic-based, weight-loss interventions.
Lattice Pressure Creating and Annihilating Superconducting Subperoxides

Abstract The involvement of O − in oxide superconductivity is indicated in a variety of phenomenological rules such as a universal scaling of T c with stoichiometric holes per O. Here, a crystal chemistry of O − creation and placement is developed, based on the competition of various types of planes (CuO 2 , E , B1). Generally, cuprate structural stability is dictated by slab matching, conventionally expressed in tolerance factors ( t ). Electronic liquefaction through subperoxide formation can ameliorate t , indicating a decisive influence of lattice pressure on the limits of O − formation. Comparison of calculation with experiment indicates trends to lattice commensurable hole patterns, of which the one responsible for optimal T c is an alternate hole charge order (P2), for both simple and complex cuprates. For complex cuprates, tension on the layers containing M =Bi, Hg, T1 leads to additional reductive self-dopings. Calculations indicate that in optimally doped materials this leads universally to P2. The T c decreases beyond this optimal doping, usually referred to as “overdoping,” are here related to overfilling of this pattern. An extreme case of this occurs with nonsuperconducting Bi 2 Sr 2 CuO 6 , which appears to be P1. This overdoping is caused by severe lattice pressure causing the annihilation of superconducting pairs. A distinction has to be made with a second type of “early” T c decreases. They occur before attainment of P2 and are due to an unfavorable hole placement crystal chemistry. An example is the disorder in [(LaSr) 2 CuO 4 ]. T c optimization involves navigating between these antagonistic principles.
Presidential address: quality of cardiovascular care in the U.S.

There has been an explosion of new knowledge in our understanding of the biologic mechanisms of cardiovascular disease. Over the past 30 years, the increase in the number of clinical trials has risen exponentially. Today, new therapies and sophisticated technologies are saving countless lives and
Satellite maps of Antarctic total ozone

Satellite remote sensing techniques for ozone have made it possible to observe the detailed, daily horizontal structure of atmospheric ozone at all locations where sunlight is present. The Antarctic ozone 'hole' has been observed with the Total Ozone Mapping Spectrometer (TOMS) instrument since launch of Nimbus 7 in 1978. This feature is a continental-size ozone minimum found in the Antarctic winter and spring seasons which has generally deepened in recent years to levels in 1985 and 1987 far below the lowest values ever observed elsewhere. The minimum appears to be produced by atmospheric circulations, but the deepening almost certainly involves chemistry which is unique to cold, dark conditions.
Order/disorder temperature of the bcc phase in Ti-21Al-26Nb

Ti-21Al-26Nb (at. pct.) is an alloy of the class known as orthorhombic titanium aluminides. This class of alloys has potential application where elevated temperature strength is critical. Their strength is derived from the fact that the three phases constituting the microstructure are ordered compounds: {alpha}{sub 2} (Ti{sub 3}Al), orthorhombic (Ti{sub 2}AlNb), and B2. Some earlier studies of the bcc phase (B2/{beta}) in orthorhombic titanium aluminides reported that the order/disorder temperature was above 1,110 C or 1,400 C, and more recent work has indicated the bcc phase is ordered to the melting point. However, preliminary observations at Rockwell suggested that the order/disorder temperature may be lower than previously reported. The objective of this study was to determine the order/disorder temperature in Ti-21Al-26Nb.
The Diffraction of Waves by Ribbons and by Slits

The exact solution of the diffraction problem in elliptic cylinder coordinates is computed by the use of newly computed tables of Mathieu functions. Curves are given for the distribution-in-angle and total intensity scattered, for the diffraction by a slit or the scattering by a thin ribbon, of waves whose length is the same order of magnitude as the slit or ribbon width. The curves are for different angles of incidence, for different wave-lengths, and for two boundary conditions: zero value and zero normal gradient.