cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Universal Design for Learning

AbstractThis article provides an overview of universal design for learning (UDL) and the principles that support it. Recent legislation, new learning theory, and technological advances have shaped the concept of universal design and made it a reality in contemporary classrooms. Tomorrow’s teachers now need the knowledge and skills to work in environments where methods and materials are universally designed. These competencies include a clear understanding of goal setting, a sound working knowledge of how to use technology for teaching and learning, and the ability to develop flexible classroom curriculum. An example of a problem-based learning unit developed as part of a Preparing Tomorrow’s Teachers to Use Technology (PT3) project illustrates how teachers can apply principles of universal design in unit development.
Readings in agents

Chapter 1 Agents and Multiagent Systems: Themes, Approaches, and Challenges Chapter 2 Applications Chapter 3 Architectures and Infrastructure Chapter 4 Models of Agency
Synthesis and Electrode Properties of Metastable Li2Mn4 O 9 − δ Spinel Oxides

Li{sub 2}Mn{sub 4}O{sub 9{minus}{delta}} spinel oxides with 0.36 < {delta} < 0.46 were synthesized by oxidation of aqueous Mn{sup 2+} with hydrogen peroxide or lithium peroxide in the presence of lithium carbonate or lithium hydroxide followed by firing the precursor in air at 300--400 C. Li{sub 2}Mn{sub 4}O{sub 9{minus}{delta}} spinel is metastable and disproportionates at about 500 C to give a lithium-rich spinel Li{sub 1{minus}x}Mn{sub 2{minus}x}O{sub 4+{delta}} and Mn{sub 2}O{sub 3}. The disproportionation temperature and the amount of Mn{sub 2}O{sub 3} impurity formed depended on the synthesis procedure and raw materials used. Use of lithium peroxide and lithium hydroxide in the solution-based oxidation procedure produced the least amount of Mn{sub 2}O{sub 3} impurity at intermediate temperatures. However, the value of x in the lithium-rich spinel Li{sub 1+x}Mn{sub 2{minus}x}O{sub 4+{delta}} decreased with a further increase in firing temperature, and the stoichiometric spinel LiMn{sub 2}O{sub 4} without Mn{sub 2}O{sub 3} impurity was formed at 800 C. Phase analysis as a function of firing temperature for a wider range of Li/Mn ratios in the system Li{sub y}Mn{sub 3{minus}y}O{sub 4+{delta}} (0.7 {le} y {le} 1.33) also revealed that single-phase spinel could be formed for the entire firing temperature range 300 {le} T {le} 800more » C only for a narrow value of 1.05 {le} y {le} 1.25. The lithium-intercalation properties of the metastable Li{sub 2}Mn{sub 4}O{sub 9{minus}{delta}} spinel were influenced by the firing temperature. A Li{sub 2}Mn{sub 4}O{sub 9{minus}{delta}} sample formed at an optimum temperature of 400 C showed a capacity of 130 mAh/g in the range 3.8--2.0 V with excellent cyclability.« less
Energy simulation in building design: by J. A. Clarke; published by Adam Hilger Ltd, Techno House, Redcliffe Way, Bristol BS1 6NX, England; price: £36/$49; pp. 388; ISBN 0-85274-786-1, distributed in North America by Adam Hilger Ltd., P.O. Box 230, Accord, MA 02018, U.S.A., June 1985

Abstract From the mathematical and technical foundations of energy simulation to the basic pronciples of energy software development, Joe Clarke's book “Energy simulation in building design” covers a wide range of issues. Clarke integrates written and graphic information effectively and presents an excellent list of references. Obviously, Clarke has been working on the subject of energy simulation for an extensive period of time and has accumulated immense knowledge in this area. If any criticism is appropriate, it might be the compression and wealth of information that startles the unprepared reader. Only the reader who has engaged himself in a similar thorough process of investigating the different aspects of energy simulation, will completely understand the book reading it for the first time. As a standard text and source of information about the state of the art in large-scale building energy simulation, the book will occupy an important place. “Energy Simulation in Building Design” can be used as a reference book in energy-related courses in the architectural curriculum where a standard reference book is much needed, and as an introduction for engineering courses.
FS09.2 Contact allergy to a commercial alcohol prep swab

Allergic contact dermatitis to prepackaged disposable alcohol prep swabs is infrequently reported. A 60-year-old woman developed repeated episodes of dermatitis at sites of injections and venipunctures. History and patch testing revealed contact allergy to Kendall Webcol alchol prep swabs. There were negative patch test results to isopropyl alcohol (IPA), but positive reactions to the Webcol swab, to the inner surface of the packaging foil, to two other brands of alcohol swabs, and to bacitracin. UV absorbance profile analysis revealed the presence of UV absorbing materials at peaks of 221 and 280 nm within commercial IPA samples, including one from Kendall, which were absent from reagent grade IPA. Reports of similar cases identified IPA, propylene oxide, or both as the allergens; when swab ingredients were negative, compound allergy was proposed. A recent report from Korea identified dodecyldiaminoethylglycine and IPA as the allergens in the commercial disinfectant swab. Although the exact allergen is undetermined in our case, it may represent a chemical compound or contaminant that is used or acquired during the manufacturing of the swabs or foils.
Occam's Razor slices through the mysteries of neurofilament axonal transport: can it really be so simple?

Neuroﬁlaments (NFs) are prominent constituents of matureaxons.HowtheneuronestablishesandmaintainstheNFarrayhas been the subject of intense controversy (1). NFs alsorepresent the most highly phosphorylated proteins within theaxonal cytoskeleton, yet how phosphorylated NF are segre-gated within axons, and how phosphorylation contributes toNF dynamics are also not entirely clear (1). The recent demon-strationthatthemicrotubulemotorproteinkinesinparticipatesin the intracellular distribution and axonal transport of NFs, andthat phosphorylation regulates the association of NFs andkinesin (2,3), affords a new look at these unresolved aspectsof NF dynamics.
Steps Toward an Ecology of Infrastructure: Design and Access for Large Information Spaces

We analyze a large-scale custom software effort, the Worm Community System (WCS), a collaborative system designed for a geographically dispersed community of geneticists. There were complex challenges in creating this infrastructural tool, ranging from simple lack of resources to complex organizational and intellectual communication failures and tradeoffs. Despite high user satisfaction with the system and interface, and extensive user needs assessment, feedback, and analysis, many users experienced difficulties in signing on and use. The study was conducted during a time of unprecedented growth in the Internet and its utilities (1991–1994), and many respondents turned to the World Wide Web for their information exchange. Using Bateson's model of levels of learning, we analyze the levels of infrastructural complexity involved in system access and designer-user communication. We analyze the connection between systems development aimed at supporting specific forms of collaborative knowledge work, local orga...
Blood protein synthesis in pupae of the silkmoth, Hyalophora cecropia

Abstract The blood proteins of pupae of Hyalophora cecropia were studied by acrylamide gel electrophoresis. Analyses of fractions separated on Sephadex G-75 columns revealed that a series of low molecular weight proteins previously reported to be absent in diapausing pupae are a normal component of diapausing pupal blood. Incorporation of isotopically labelled leucine into blood protein bands of injured pupae, perfused pupae, and perfused isolated pupal abdomens (lacking a midgut) revealed that each of these three preparations could synthesize all of the low molecular weight protein bands, with maximal incorporation in the perfused whole pupae.
Deficient nucleotide excision repair capacity enhances human prostate cancer risk.

Prostate cancer (CaP) is the most commonly diagnosed non-skin cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death in American men. The etiology of CaP is not fully understood. Because most of the DNA adducts generated by some CaP-related carcinogens, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, heterocyclic amines, and pesticides, are removed by the nucleotide excision repair (NER) pathway, we pilot tested the hypothesis that CaP is associated with deficient NER capacity (NERC), measured by a plasmid-based host reactivation assay. Using cryopreserved lymphocytes collected in an ongoing, clinic-based case-control study, our results showed that the mean NERC was significantly lower ( P = 0.03) in 140 cases (mean ± SD, 8.06 ± 5.17) than in 96 controls (9.64 ± 5.49). There was a significant association between below-median NERC and CaP risk: odds ratio (OR), 2.14; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.19–3.86, after adjustment for age, race/ethnicity, smoking history, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and family history. This association was stronger in younger (<60 years of age) subjects (OR, 3.98; 95% CI, 1.13–14.02) compared with older (≥60) subjects (OR, 1.74; 95% CI, 0.90–3.37). When we stratified NERC values by quartiles of controls, there was a significant dose-dependent association between lower NERC and elevated CaP risk ( p test for linear trend, 0.01). Compared with the highest quartile of NERC as the referent group, the adjusted ORs for the 75th, 50th, and 25th quartiles were: 1.09 (95% CI, 0.46–2.59); 1.81 (95% CI, 0.77–4.27); and 2.63 (95% CI, 1.17–5.95), respectively. This pilot study is the first direct evidence associating deficient NERC with human CaP risk.
Missing, Lost, and Displaced Children in Postwar Germany: The Great Struggle to Provide for the War's Youngest Victims

In the final months of World War II, more than a million German children took to the roads in search of family and home. Although the majority returned home with little institutional support, hundreds of thousands of other German children could not. Some were orphaned; others remained in camps, children's homes, or foster families in areas that no longer belonged to Germany. Most challenging for authorities were those who were alone and too young to know their own names. This article explores the struggle to locate, identify, and provide for missing, lost, and displaced German children after 1945. It argues that despite a general agreement that children were in peril, Allied denazification policies and the decision by the UN Relief and Rehabilitation Administration (UNRRA) not to help “enemy children” compromised care for children. The division of Germany and the onset of the Cold War further handicapped efforts to aid children by preventing the creation of a unified search service. Yet, despite the many postwar impediments, the effort to care for these children was remarkably successful in the end.
Influenza vaccination acceptance among diverse pregnant women and its impact on infant immunization

Objective: We examined pregnant women’s likelihood of vaccinating their infants against seasonal influenza via a randomized message framing study. Using Prospect Theory, we tested gain- and loss-fr...
Efficient Algorithms for Channel Routing

In the layout design of LSI chips, channel routing is one of the key problems. The problem is to route a specified net list between two rows of terminals across a two-layer channel. Nets are routed with horizontal segments on one layer and vertical segments on the other. Connections between two layers are made through via holes. Two new algorithms are proposed. These algorithms merge nets instead of assigning horizontal tracks to individual nets. The algorithms were coded in Fortran and implemented on a VAX 11/780 computer. Experimental results are quite encouraging. Both programs generated optimal solutions in 6 out of 8 cases, using examples in previously published papers. The computation times of the algorithms for a typical channel (300 terminals, 70 nets) are 1.0 and 2.1 s, respectively.
901-109 Value of Visualizing Atherosclerotic Plaques on the Thoracic Aorta by Transesophageal Echocardiography in Conjunction with Pharmacologic Stress

Detection of atherosclerotic plaques within the thoracic aorta (TA) by transesophageal echocardiography(TEE) has been shown to be a useful marker to detect coronary artery disease (CAD). Dobutamine (Dob) stress echocardiography can induce segmental wall motion abnormalities (SWMA) in the presence of CAD. To determine the value of visualizing atherosclerotic plaques on the TA in conjunction with Dob-TEE, 60 pts (54 males, 6 females; mean age 59 ± 13 yrs) with chest pain syndrome were studied. All pts underwent coronary angiography. Dob was infused in 3-min increments from 5 to 40 mcg/kg/min, Dob-TEE was considered positive if new or worsening of previously present SWMA were noted. Atherosclerotic plaques visualized on TA were divided into simple and complex lesions. Simple lesions were defined as intimal thickening or luminal irregularities, and complex lesions were protruding, ulcerated or mobile plaques noted. Results Significant CAD (≥50% stenosis) was present in 49 pts and 11 pts had normal or non-significant disease. Sensitivity (SE), specificity (SP), positive ( +PV), negative ( -PV) predictive values, and diagnostic accuracy (DA) are: SE SP +PV -PV DA Dob-TEE 94% 73% 94% 73% 90% TA-TEE 90% 80% 93% 73% 88% The TA showed atherosclerotic plaques in 45 of 49 pts with positive DobTEE and it was free of disease in 9 of 11 pts with negative Dob-TEE (90% agreement). The presence of complex lesions was significantly higher in pts with multivessel disease (MVD) (21 of 32 pts 66%) than in those with single vessel disease (SVD) (3 of 17 pts 18%), p l 0.01. While simple lesions were more common in SVD (11 of 17 pts 65%) than in MVD (9 of 32 pts 28%), p l 0.01. In conclusion, TA-TEE and Dob-TEE highly concur in detecting CAD. Visualization of complex lesions on TA-TEE before Dob-TEE should alert for the possibility of MVD.
Life: A resolution to the post-modern problem of identity and diversity

(1992). Life: A resolution to the post-modern problem of identity and diversity. History of European Ideas: Vol. 15, No. 1-3, pp. 121-126.
High Strength Soft Magnetic Composites

Abstract : There has been an increasing demand for high temperature soft magnetic materials with mechanical properties better than those of existing commercial materials such as FeCo alloys. We have designed new magnetic composites by reinforcing FeCo alloys with high strength tungsten fibers. The composite materials were fabricated by electrodeposition. In general, the as deposited composites have a relatively high coercivity H(sub c) and low magnetic permeability Micro, because of induced strain during fabrication. After appropriate thermal annealing, the composites have good soft magnetic properties, comparable to commercial bulk alloys. However, the saturation induction is reduced due to the non-magnetic inclusions. The composites also show significant enhancements in yield strength and tensile strength that increases linearly with fiber volume fraction as seen in other common composite materials. In addition, near zero creep is observed at 600 deg C under a stress of 600 Mpa. The mechanical properties can be further improved by co-depositing soft magnetic material and Al2O3 onto the fibers. An approximately linear relationship was observed between the coercivity and volume fraction of Al2O3 particles. The square-root relationship was observed between the hardness and the Al2O3 concentration.
Uterine Estrogen and Progesterone Receptors in an Estrogen- and Progesterone-“Resistant” Primate

The squirrel monkey, a New World primate, has elevated plasma estradiol and progesterone concentrations compared to those in the cynomolgus macaque, an Old World primate. We previously reported that uterine progesterone receptor concentrations examined in ovariectomized squirrel monkeys 2 days after estrogen treatment were about one eighth those in identically treated cynomolgus macaques. To examine this in greater detail, we gave estradiol (10 µg/kgday) to ovariectomized squirrel and cynomolgus monkeys for various lengths of time (0,2,4,7, and 14 days), followed by measurement of uterine estrogen and progesterone receptors and assessment of endometrial histology (including glycogen and peroxidase stains), vaginal histology, and cytology. Endometrial and vaginal mor morphologies showed adequate estrogen effects, as did glycogen and peroxidase stains. Two days of treatment were sufficient to induce both estrogen and progesterone receptors to maximalbinding of [3H]moxestrol and [3H]R5020, respectively, in b...
Optical waveguides for imaging applications: Design by an inverse scattering approach

An inverse scattering theory is used to design optical waveguides capable of transmitting spatial images without degradation. The propagation characteristics of N modes each carrying a pixel of the image are specified by a transverse rational reflection coefficient. The Gel'fand-Levitan-Marchenko inverse scattering theory is used to obtain the unique solution of the permittivity profile of the waveguide from the reflection coefficient
Parental responsiveness and infant-parent attachment : A replication study with fathers and mothers

Abstract Few studies have investigated the role of parental sensitivity in the formation of a secure father-infant attachment relationship. Studies involving both mothers and fathers using identical methods and measurement procedures are virtually nonexistent. The purpose of this study was to replicate Smith and Pederson’s (1988) findings examining the prediction of mother-infant attachment and then extend this work to the prediction of father-infant attachment. Infant-mother and infant-father attachment for 62 infants was assessed in Ainsworth’s Strange Situation at 12 and 13 months, respectively. Parental responsiveness was measured using Smith and Pederson’s (1988) No-toy situation. Results revealed that for both mothers and fathers, parental behavior in the No-toy situation neither differed according to attachment classification, nor could accurately predict the quality of mother-infant or father-infant attachment relationships. The strength of the relationship between sensitivity and attachment is discussed.
Guards Gone Wild: A Self-Report Study of Correctional Officer Misconduct and the Effect of Institutional Deviance on “care” within the Texas Prison System

Although the study of deviance has been prevalent in the criminal justice literature, there is very little discussion as to the types of deviant acts committed by correctional employees. This may be because prisons are what Goffman (1961) refers to as “total institutions” in his classic study of asylums. This study employed self-report questionnaires with 501 Texas prison employees. Based on the data, our findings indicate that respondents were likely to perceive high levels of institutional deviance during the course of their eight-hour shifts. Also, subjects who reported “feeling cared for” by at least someone in the prison agency tended to perceive more deviance than other respondents or vice versa. We discuss these findings and their implications in detail.
Incorporating Physical Geography into the Guideline's Movement Theme

Abstract The introduction of the five themes has been instrumental in the revitalization of geography in the K-12 curriculum. Although four themes include key ideas from both physical and human geography, the movement theme virtually ignores physical geography as its subtitle, “Humans Interacting on the Earth,” suggests. We have developed a set of physical geography key ideas analogous to the human set and believe that these address the lack of physical geography in the movement theme in 7–12 Geography: Themes, Key Ideas and Learning Opportunities (GENIP 1989). We assert that physical geography is an indispensable and dynamic part of school geography. Furthermore we argue that contemporary physical geography, which emphasizes process, is a fundamental part of the movement theme. Thus, we argue that the inclusion of physical geography in the movement theme is appropriate and beneficial.
GAPS: general and automatic polygonal simplification

We present a new approach for simplifying polygonal objects. Our method is general in that it accepts models that contain both non-manifold geometry and surface attributes. It is automatic since it requires no user input to execute and returns approximate error bounds used to calculate switching distances between levels of detail, or LODs. Our algorithm, called General and Automatic Polygonal Simplification, or GAPS for short, uses an adaptive distance threshold and surface area preservation along with a quadric error metr ic to join unconnected regions of an object. Its name comes from this ability to “fill in the gaps” of an object. Our algorithm combines approximations of geometric and surface attribute error to produce a unified object space error metric. GAPS can efficiently produce high quality and drastic approximations of a wide variety of objects, including complicated pipe structures. This ability to perform drastic simplification allows us to create levels of detail to accelerate the rendering of large polygonal environments, consisting of hundreds of objects. When viewing these models with LODs created by GAPS, we achieve a 3.5 to 5 times average speedup with little loss in image quality.
Interferon and Interferon Inducers in Protozoal Infections

Several interferon inducers (Newcastle disease virus, statolon, and poly rI:poly rC) as well as exogenous mouse interferon protect mice from sporozoite-induced Plasmodium berghei malaria, as long as they are administered before the end of the preerythrocytic phase of development of the parasite. The protective effect of the interferon inducers was related to their interferon-inducing effect; the protective effect of the interferon preparations was related to the interferon titer of the preparations, and it exhibited other attributes of interferon such as species specificity. In contrast to sporozoite-induced infection, blood forms-induced P. berghei malaria was only weakly susceptible to the protective effect of interferon inducers. This difference may provide an approach to study the mechanism of protection. The growth in cell cultures of another intracellular protozoon, Toxoplasma gondii, is also inhibited by interferon (22). The fact that P. berghei and T. gondii (as well as another group of intracellular parasites susceptible to interferon, the Chlamydia) have their own ribosomes raises questions, concerning the role of host cell ribosomes in the host cell-parasite relationship of these intracellular parasites and in the mechanism of interferon action against them, that can be approached experimentally. The possibility of therapeutic or prophylactic application of interferon or of its inducers to certain protozoal diseases of man and of other animals is still remote, but it has to be considered for long range planning.
AMTeS3 (A=K, Rb, Cs; M=Cu, Ag) : a new class of compounds based on a new polychalcogenide anion, TeS32-

The reaction of Cu or Ag with mixed polychalcogenide flux A 2 S x Te y (A=K, Rb, Cs) yielded RbCuTeS 3 (1), CsCuTeS 3 (2), α-KAgTeS 3 (3), β-KAgTeS 3 (4), RbAgTeS 3 (5), and CsAgTeS 3 (6) possessing new structure types. Compounds 1, 4, 5, and 6 are two-dimensional and isostructural. They crystallize in the monoclinic space group P2 1 /c, with a=7.434(3) A, b=10.526(3) A, c=8.234(3) A, β=106.13(3) o , V= 619.0(7) A 3 for 1; a=7.340(2) A, b==10.647(2) A, c=8.504(2) A, β=106.46(2) o , V= 637.4(3) A 3 for 4; a=7.566(8) A, b=10.724(8) A, c=8.586(9)A, β=106.36(8) o , V=668(2) A 3 for 5; and a=7.832(6) A, b=10.803(7) A, c=8.668(8) A, β=705(2) A 3 for 6
Event-averaged maximum likelihood estimation and information-based sensor management

This paper present an information-theoretic approach to sensor management for multitarget tracking using a sensor that operates in one of two modes: a fast, low-resolution mode and a slow, high-resolution mode. The error correlations between nearby target pairs, the sensor rates, the sensor resolutions and the target plant noise all play a role in the optimum choice of mode. The error correlations occur in the target location estimates even when the individual measurement errors are uncorrelated, as in the model considered here. When a filter that models these error correlations is used, such as event-averaged maximum likelihood estimation, a sensor management strategy can be developed to reduce them. This is illustrated with a model two- target problem. In the model problem, the target plant noise is such that the low resolution mode produces the optimum result when the targets are widely separated, due to its higher report rate. If the error correlations are not modeled, then over a certain parameter range the low resolution mode would be selected for all target separations. When the effect of error correlations is included, it is shown the slow, high resolution mode produces a better result when the targets are close together. This suggests that systems that must track closely spaced targets could benefit from adaptively adjusting their integration times based on target plant noise and separation.
Models for self-limited additive pulse mode-locking

Abstract We analyze Self-Limited Additive Pulse Mode-locked (SLAPM) lasers. SLAPM is APM in which the effective fast saturable absorption rolls over to become fast saturable gain for the pulse peaks, providing an important stabilizing mechanism. The pulses in a SLAPM laser tend to look Gaussian at the top but maintain exponential wings and have time-bandwidth products larger than that of a sech2-shaped pulse. We compare a simple analytic theory with two discrete computer simulations of SLAPM lasers. We show that despite large nonlinear phase shifts per pass in the fiber (close to π) and the lumped nature of the elements in the laser, the analytic model is applicable. Both the simulated pulse parameters and shapes show good agreement with the theory.
The use of electromagnetic induction techniques in soils studies

Abstract Electromagnetic induction (EMI) has been used to characterize the spatial variability of soil properties since the late 1970s. Initially used to assess soil salinity, the use of EMI in soil studies has expanded to include: mapping soil types; characterizing soil water content and flow patterns; assessing variations in soil texture, compaction, organic matter content, and pH; and determining the depth to subsurface horizons, stratigraphic layers or bedrock, among other uses. In all cases the soil property being investigated must influence soil apparent electrical conductivity (ECa) either directly or indirectly for EMI techniques to be effective. An increasing number and diversity of EMI sensors have been developed in response to users' needs and the availability of allied technologies, which have greatly improved the functionality of these tools. EMI investigations provide several benefits for soil studies. The large amount of georeferenced data that can be rapidly and inexpensively collected with EMI provides more complete characterization of the spatial variations in soil properties than traditional sampling techniques. In addition, compared to traditional soil survey methods, EMI can more effectively characterize diffuse soil boundaries and identify areas of dissimilar soils within mapped soil units, giving soil scientists greater confidence when collecting spatial soil information. EMI techniques do have limitations; results are site-specific and can vary depending on the complex interactions among multiple and variable soil properties. Despite this, EMI techniques are increasingly being used to investigate the spatial variability of soil properties at field and landscape scales.
Comment on the Paper “On the influx of small comets into the Earth's upper atmosphere II. Interpretation” by L. A. Frank, J. B. Sigwarth and J. D. Graven

The proposal by Frank et al. (1986) that clouds of small comets periodically inject large amounts of H2O into the upper atmospheres of the earth, Venus, and Mars is examined critically, with a focus on transport and disposal mechanisms invoked to account for the large H2O masses involved. It is argued that observed parameter values (such as mixing ratios, vertical wind velocities, and H escape flows) prohibit transport by eddy, molecular diffusion, vertical avection, or coherent movement. In a reply by Frank et al., these objections are discussed in terms of an overall description of the decelerataion and penetration of a cometary water cloud, and H2O concentrations and mixing mechanisms consistent with observed values for the earth are proposed. It is suggested that an increase in cometary H2O influx could lead to concentrations attaining the frost point and to formation of a global mesospheric cloud with significant climate effects. A lower H2O influx rate for Venus (consistent with observed H loss and atmospheric H2O concentration) and relatively rapid loading of the Mars surface and atmosphere with H2O ice and vapor (followed by brief warming periods with increased exospheric H2O outflow and surface flow of liquid H2O) are considered.
Differences in smoking-related variables based on phenylthiocarbamide "taster" status

Abstract Test strips impregnated with phenylthiocarbamide (PTC) have been used to identify genetic differences based on whether a bitter taste is perceived. To determine whether smokers who perceive PTC as bitter tasting (“tasters”) would differ from those who describe it as tasteless (“non-tasters”) on smoking-related variables, we studied 464 current smokers (70% female, 79% White; mean age 30.5 ± 9 years) recruited to participate in laboratory experiments and clinical trials. Of these, 217 (47%) reported the PTC strips as tasteless and 154 (33%) as tasting bitter. The remaining 93 (20%) described the taste as salty, sweet, or other and were excluded from further analyses. Comparing tasters with non-tasters, we found significant differences in mean (S.D.) total years smoked (14.5 [9.2] for non-tasters, vs. 12.6 [8.4] for tasters, p p p
Optimization of 15N detection with an atomic emission detector

Gas chromatography with atomic emission detection is a useful tool for the detection of stable isotope labels in complex samples. While papers involving the analysis of D and 13C are numerous, little work has been done in the area of 15N detection. For 15N isotope detection, three reagent gases are used: H2, O2, and CH4. In this work, the reagent gas flows were varied to optimize the sensitivity of 15N detection without sacrificing isotope selectivity. The optimal gas flows determined in this work produce the following ratios of the spectral peak areas: O 725 area/He 728 area = 0.039 with only O2 flowing; H 486 area/He 492 area = 12 with only H2 flowing; C 496 area/He 502 area = 0.41 with O2, H2, and CH4 flowing for C and no gases flowing for He. When using these gas settings, the 15N sensitivity is increased by nearly 2 orders of magnitude relative to the manufacturer-recommended settings. It was also demonstrated that the presence of a compound in both the labeled and unlabeled forms in the same sampl...
Context-specific habituation of the zenk gene response to song in adult zebra finches

Zebra finches show a multifaceted response to playback of tape-recorded birdsong. A novel song induces an overt listening behavior, accompanied by a distinct electrophysiological signature and a wave of gene expression in the auditory telencephalon. With repetition of the same song these responses all habituate; habituation can persist for a day or more and is specific for the repeated song. This habituation is a form of selective memory. Here we describe four experiments to probe the nature of the information stored in that memory, using habituation of the genomic response as a physiological assay for stimulus recognition. Adult male zebra finches (awake and unrestrained) were exposed to repetitions of a test song to habituate the genomic response. The same song was then presented in one of four different contexts: (1) from a speaker on the opposite side of the cage; (2) at a reduced sound pressure level; (3) paired with constant illumination of colored lights next to the speaker; (4) paired with colored lights that were turned on and off in synchrony with each song bout. In all cases except the third, a "familiar" (habituated) song re-induced a new wave of gene expression in the auditory telencephalon when presented in the new context. These results reveal that memory for a specific song, as indicated by the initial gene habituation, incorporates more than just an acoustic description of the song. We suggest that habituation in the auditory telencephalon is controlled in part by an extrinsic system that allows detection of synchronous activity in different sensory or representational modalities.
Microbial Petroleum Degradation: The Role of Cladosporium Resinae

ABSTRACT Cladosporium resinae is probably the most prevalent hydrocarbon-utilizing fungus. It has been isolated in fresh water and marine environments. It utilizes aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons, as well as alcohols and acids. Growth on aliphatic hydrocarbons is slow, and yields are lower than for cells cultured on acids. However, degradation of hydrocarbons is not slow, since most of the hydrocarbon is mineralized (converted to CO2) and not assimilated to cellular carbon. Growth of the fungus was not supported by organo-phosphorus-, chlorinated hydrocarbon-, or natural pesticides as sole carbon source. However, the fungus was resistant to or stimulated by high concentrations (20,000 ppm) of these pesticides when cultured on hydrocarbons. This suggests that high concentrations of pesticides occurring in oil slicks would not inhibit oil degradation by Cladosporium resinae. Hydrocarbon-oxidation is constitutive in Cladosporium resinae. Cells oxidize aldehydes, although they did not grow on them. Releas...
Evaluation of A Single Presentation Format For Education About Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Disease1

This study explored the efficiency and effectiveness of a single presentation format for education about human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease. Pretraining and posttraining questionnaires assessing knowledge and risk assessment were given to police officers attending a two-hour seminar on HIV disease. A one-way ANOVA was used to compare posttraining scores of 42 officers who attended the seminar one year ago with the pretraining scores of 63 officers currently attending the seminar, some of whom had attended the seminar one year earlier. Significant differences were found on knowledge items (p < .05). Post hoc analysis revealed no significant decline in knowledge scores after one year, while pretraining knowledge scores for those who had attended the seminar before were significantly greater than for those who had not. No significant differences were found on risk assessment items, suggesting that beliefs about on the job risk have become part of the officers' common culture.
Chitosan-based rechargeable long-term antimicrobial and biofilm-controlling systems.

Chitosan, a natural cationic polymer, strongly binds anionic antibiotics (e.g., rifampin) through the formation of ionic complexes. The new system shows sustained rifampin release, leading to potent antimicrobial and biofilm-controlling functions against gram-positive bacteria including Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus, which are responsible for a wide range of medical device-related infections, for longer than 30 days. Moreover, the released drugs can be recharged to further extend antimicrobial durations. Drug release mechanisms and potential applications of the new system are also discussed. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2009
Improving Financial Performance by Modeling and Analysis of Radiology Procedure Scheduling at a Large Community Hospital

Radiology tests, such as MRI, CT-scan, X-ray and ultrasound, are cost intensive and insurance pre-approvals are necessary to get reimbursement. In some cases, tests may be denied for payments by insurance companies due to lack of pre-approvals, inaccurate or missing necessary information. This can lead to substantial revenue losses for the hospital. In this paper, we present a simulation study of a centralized scheduling process for outpatient radiology tests at a large community hospital (Central Baptist Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky). Based on analysis of the central scheduling process, a simulation model of information flow in the process has been developed. Using such a model, the root causes of financial losses associated with errors and omissions in this process were identified and analyzed, and their impacts were quantified. In addition, "what-if" analysis was conducted to identify potential process improvement strategies in the form of recommendations to the hospital leadership. Such a model provides a quantitative tool for continuous improvement and process control in radiology outpatient test scheduling process to reduce financial losses associated with process error. This method of analysis is also applicable to other departments in the hospital.
Affect Intensity and the Consumer's Attitude toward High Impact Emotional Advertising Appeals

Abstract Subjects scoring high on the Affect Intensity Measurement (AIM) scale responded with greater emotional intensity than low AI subjects to both positive and negative emotional appeals. These high AI individuals also expressed more positive attitudes and higher levels of enjoyment of the positive emotional appeal. However, in response to the negative emotional appeal, high AI and low AI subjects did not differ in ad enjoyment level or attitude toward the ad. Emotional responses mediated the effects of affect intensity on attitude toward the ad only when subjects were exposed to the positive emotional appeal. Theoretical and managerial implications of the effect of affect intensity on the recipient's attitude toward high impact emotional advertising appeals are discussed.
Isomerization and dissociation in competition. The two-component decay rates of energy-selected trimethyl borate ions

Threshold photoelectron−photoion coincidence spectroscopy has been used to investigate the unimolecular chemistry of metastable trimethyl borate ions, B(OCH3)3•+. The ions were found to fragment by two-component decay rates via four distinct channels with the loss of CH3O•, •CH2OH, •CH3, and H•. The rate of molecular ion fragmentation as a function of ion internal energy was obtained from the coincidence data and used in conjunction with RRKM and ab initio molecular orbital calculations to model the fragmentation mechanism. The data were found to be consistent with a three-well potential surface including trimethyl borate molecular ions (I) and two isomers formed by consecutive 1,2- and 1,5-hydrogen shifts. The molecular ion undergoes a fast, but metastable, loss of CH3O• and a competative 1,2-H shift to isomer II, (CH3O)2BO(H)CH2•+. This isomer is responsible for the metastable loss of •CH2OH and isomerization to the second isomer, III, which loses a methyl group. The 0 K heat of formation of CH3OBOCH3+ ...
Deep level defects involved in MOS device instabilities

The physical and chemical nature of several defects involved in metal–oxide–silicon (MOS) device instabilities have become fairly well understood through studies involving electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR). Recent EPR studies suggest that some of these defects play important roles in the negative bias temperature instability (NBTI). This paper reviews recent NBTI EPR studies as well as earlier EPR studies dealing with other MOS instability problems.
Water-soluble polyelectrolyte complexes that extinguish fire on cotton fabric when deposited as pH-cured nanocoating

Abstract In an effort to quickly impart flame retardant behavior to cotton fabric, and in ambient conditions, a water-soluble polyelectrolyte complex (WPEC) was evaluated. A OnePot mixture consisting of polyethylenimine and poly(sodium phosphate) imparts self-extinguishing behavior in a single step. This nanocoating maintains the fabric's weave structure by conformally coating individual fibers. Appreciable weight gain (23%) is achieved with just a single 30 s immersion in the WPEC suspension. Treatment of this coating with acidic buffer further renders it insoluble in water and durable to rinsing. Uncoated cotton is readily consumed during vertical flame tests, while OnePot-coated fabric, followed by buffer treatment of pH 5 or lower (16.5% weight gain or less), self-extinguishes through an intumescent mechanism. Microscale combustion calorimetry reveals a total heat release reduction of 88% and peak heat release rate reduction of 81%. This work demonstrates the ability of a WPEC nanocoating to prevent ignition of cotton fabric with few processing steps and relatively low weight gain.
Maximal potential patent foramen diameter does not correlate with the type or frequency of the neurologic event prior to closure.

Background: We analyzed our data on patients undergoing transcatheter patent foramen ovale (PFO) closure to determine if the maximal potential PFO diameter (MPPD) by balloon sizing
Protein kinase ϵ dampens the secretory response of model intestinal epithelia during ischemia

Abstract Background. Luminal fluid sequestration and diarrhea are early manifestations of mesenteric ischemia. This can be modeled in vitro with the use of T84 intestinal epithelia, where ischemia induces Cl − secretion with adenosine-mediated autocrine feedback. Protein kinase C (PKC) regulates epithelial transport and, in some organ systems, is involved in the response to ischemic stress. The purpose of this study was to define the role of PKC on epithelial transport during ischemia. Methods. By voltage-current clamp, short-circuit current (Isc) equals Cl − secretion. Ischemic conditions were simulated with the use of a well-established chemical hypoxia protocol. Results. Chemical hypoxia briskly activated Isc. Go6850, an antagonist of novel and conventional PKC isoforms, markedly enhanced the ischemia-induced Isc response, although Go6976 (which inhibits only conventional isoforms) had no effect. Rottlerin, a specific inhibitor of PKCδ, did not attenuate ischemic Isc. Both phorbol 12-myristate, 13-acetate and bryostatin-1, which selectively activate PKCϵ in T84 cells, markedly attenuated the Isc response to ischemia. Both agents also inhibited the Isc response to exogenous adenosine. Conclusions. PKC (likely the novel ϵ isoform) in intestinal epithelia modulates ischemia-induced alterations in ion transport. Inhibition of PKCϵ exaggerates the secretory response that is induced by ischemia and by authentic adenosine; conversely, augmented activation of PKCϵ inhibits secretion. Manipulation of PKCϵ could limit luminal fluid sequestration during mesenteric ischemia. (Surgery 2001;130:310-8.)
Targeted Inactivation of Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator Chloride Channel Gene Prevents Ischemic Preconditioning in Isolated Mouse Heart

Background— Recent evidence suggests that chloride channels may be involved in ischemic preconditioning (IPC). In this study, we tested whether the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) chloride channels, which are expressed in the heart and activated by protein kinase A and protein kinase C, are important for IPC in isolated heart preparations from wild-type (WT) and CFTR knockout (CFTR−/−) mice. Methods and Results— Hearts were isolated from age-matched WT or CFTR−/− (B6.129P2-Cftrtm1Unc and STOCKCftrtm1Unc-TgN 1Jaw) mice and perfused in the Langendorff or working-heart mode. All hearts were allowed to stabilize for 10 minutes before they were subjected to 30 or 45 minutes of global ischemia followed by 40 minutes of reperfusion (control group) or 3 cycles of 5 minutes of ischemia and reperfusion (IPC group) before 30 or 45 minutes of global ischemia and 40 minutes of reperfusion. Hemodynamic indices were recorded to evaluate cardiac functions. Release of creatine phosphate kinase (...
Regressive Socioeconomic Distribution and Democratic Survival

Many scholars have argued that unequal socioeconomic distribution constitutes a threat to democratic survival. However, the evidence in support of this claim has been contradictory. We argue that this inconsistency derives from the literature’s assumption that income inequality will adequately reflect the conditions under which demands for radical redistribution will emerge and trigger antidemocratic elite reactions. We argue instead that when developmental context is taken into consideration, absolute forms of distribution, like basic needs deprivation, are better indicators of these conditions. When needs deprivation exists in the face of enhanced economic development, citizens will not only notice deprivation more readily, but also, given the greater social surplus, deem it more unacceptable, provoking radical demands for redistributive justice. This combination of development and continuing basic needs shortfalls, a condition that we refer to as regressive socioeconomic distribution, will threaten democratic survival. Using event history analysis on a sample composed of all democracies from 1961 to 1995, we confirm that regressive socioeconomic distribution increases the risk of breakdown.
Cancer Drugs and Cardiovascular Toxicities

Cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agents, immunotherapy and, most recently, antiangiogenic preparations may have potential cardiovascular events associated with their use, from minor ECG changes in asymptomatic patients to cardiovascular collapse in acute, subacute or chronic clinical settings. In addition, cardiovascular complications associated with malignancy can pose problems in diagnosing and treating patients and may host a systemic, metabolic, paraneoplastic or other major organ system dysfunction that often accompanies advanced disease.1 To minimize potential cardiovascular problems, oncologists must consider numerous therapeutic issues - including drug dosage, rate of administration, single or combination agent sequencing and possible overlapping side effects - while employing drugs with different mechanisms of antitumor activity. Likewise, cardiologists must consider issues such as infection, fever, volume status, electrolyte abnormalities, age, sex, pregnancy, prior radiation and pre-existing heart disease when considering testing modalities.
Complex systems and health behavior change: insights from cognitive science.

Objective To provide proof-of-concept that quantum health behavior can be instantiated as a computational model that is informed by cognitive science, the Theory of Reasoned Action, and quantum health behavior theory. Methods We conducted a synthetic review of the intersection of quantum health behavior change and cognitive science. We conducted simulations, using a computational model of quantum health behavior (a constraint satisfaction artificial neural network) and tested whether the model exhibited quantum-like behavior. Results The model exhibited clear signs of quantum-like behavior. Conclusions Quantum health behavior can be conceptualized as constraint satisfaction: a mitigation between current behavioral state and the social contexts in which it operates. We outlined implications for moving forward with computational models of both quantum health behavior and health behavior in general.