cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic and screening procedures for lead poisoning.

As a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and a Pediatric Consultant to the Maternal and Child Health Service, U.S. Public Health Service, I have noted with interest in the Newsletter (December 15, 1970) that the Academy9s Committee on Environmental Hazards has endorsed the U.S. Public Health Service9s Statement, "Medical Aspects of Childhood Lead Poisoning," recently released by the Surgeon General. But I am rather surprised at the exceptions the Committee took to the Statement, and I would like to take exception to these exceptions.
Chronic Social Stress Alters Levels of Corticotropin-Releasing Factor and Arginine Vasopressin mRNA in Rat Brain

In the visible burrow system model of chronic social stress, male rats housed in mixed-sex groups quickly form a dominance hierarchy in which the subordinates appear to be severely stressed. A subgroup of subordinates have an impaired corticosterone response after presentation of a novel restraint stressor, leading to their designation as nonresponsive subordinates. To examine the mechanism underlying the blunted corticosterone response in these animals, in situ hybridization histochemistry was used to quantify corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and arginine vasopressin (AVP) mRNA expression in the brain. In two separate visible burrow system experiments, the nonresponsive subordinates expressed a significantly lower average number of CRF mRNA grains per cell in the paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus compared with stress-responsive subordinates, dominants (DOM), or cage-housed control (CON) rats. The number of CRF mRNA labeled cells was also significantly lower in nonresponders than in responsive subordinates or DOM. In the central amygdala, CRF mRNA levels were increased in both groups of subordinates compared with CON rats, whereas responsive subordinates exhibited higher levels than the DOM rats as well. AVP mRNA levels did not vary with behavioral rank in any subdivision of the paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus. In the medial amygdala, the number of cells expressing AVP mRNA was significantly greater in CON rats compared with both groups of subordinates, although the average number of AVP mRNA grains per cell did not vary with rank. In addition, the number of AVP-positive cells significantly correlated with plasma testosterone level.
A periodic cerebral rhythm in newborn infants.

Abstract In premature and full-term infants the EEG during quiet sleep is characterized by bursts of large amplitude slow waves with superimposed rapid rhythms, alternating with attenuated periods of mixed frequencies. To trace the ontogenetic development of this pattern, the duration of the large amplitude activity (bursts) and attenuated periods (flats) was measured in recordings done at 29, 33, and 40 weeks conceptional age in premature infants and at 40 weeks in full-term and trisomy-21 (Down's syndrome) infants. All age-related changes were statistically significant. Between 29 and 40 weeks the length of the burst increased from 3.3 to 5.9 sec, the flat decreased from 9.3 to 4.4 sec, and the complete burst-flat unit decreased from 12.6 to 10.3 sec. The only difference between the groups occurred in the duration of bursts, which were longer in the prematures recorded at 40 weeks. Full-term and trisomy-21 infants of the same age showed no differences. The age changes were primarily due to numerous very long burst-to-burst intervals in the small premature infants. The modal interval at all ages was 9 sec, which suggests the presence of a central pacemaker that is not altered by maturation during intrauterine development. Consideration of parallels between EEG of immature animals and human infants led to the hypothesis that continuity of EEG activity (increasing burst length) is a function of cortical maturation involving increases in the complexity of interneuronal interaction and feedback circuits.
The transmission of inflation between the United States and Canada: An empirical analysis

Abstract This paper investigates the causal patterns, in the sense of Granger, which characterize the relationships between U.S. and Canadian inflation rates under different exchange rate regimes. Both bivariate and multivariate models are considered. The results suggest that the flexible exchange rate period of the 1950s exhibits no insulating effects with causal inferences similar to those from the fixed rate era of the 1960s. For the flexible rate period of the 1970s the bivariate model indicates that U.S. and Canadian inflation are independent but when the model is expanded to include money growth rates in each country, evidence of a direct, nonmonetary causal link from U.S. inflation to Canadian inflation is found.
Influence of Verbal Working Memory Depends on Vocabulary: Oral Reading Fluency in Adolescents With Dyslexia

Most research on dyslexia to date has focused on early childhood, while comparatively little is known about the nature of dyslexia in adolescence. The current study had two objectives. The first was to investigate the relative contributions of several cognitive and linguistic factors to connected-text oral reading fluency in a sample of adolescents with dyslexia (n = 77). The second was to test the hypothesis that the effect of verbal working memory on connected-text oral reading fluency is moderated by word-level skills and/or vocabulary knowledge. The results suggest that many deficits associated with childhood dyslexia remain prominent in adolescence, but the nature of the relationships between key cognitive and linguistic predictors (i.e., word-level reading, vocabulary, verbal working memory) and reading fluency appear to be different in adolescence. For example, while word-level skills remain a significant predictor, the strength of the effect is relatively weak. In contrast, the data support an increased role for vocabulary and verbal working memory, including an interaction between these factors. The presence of an interaction can be interpreted as evidence that the influence of verbal working memory on connected-text oral reading fluency in adolescents with dyslexia depends on individual differences in vocabulary knowledge. These results offer support for the changing nature of dyslexia across development, and suggest that researchers should study dyslexia in adolescents on its own terms, rather than treating it as an extension of reading problems in early childhood.
Glass capillary gas chromatography with simultaneous flame ionization (FID) and Hall® element‐specific (HECD) detection

Two glass capillary gas chromatographic systems were equipped with inert effluent splitters which allowed simultaneous data acquisition using nonspecific and element-specific detectors. Simultaneous detection was achieved using the nonspecific flame ionization detector (FID) and the Hall® electrolytic conductivity detector (HECD) operated in either the sulfur-or the nitrogen-specific mode. Typical application of the simultaneous detection system as applied to analysis of petroleum residues is briefly described. The Hall electrolytic conductivity detector can be made element specific for halogen-, sulfur-, or nitrogen-containing compounds. Simultaneous detection enhances the information yield from a single sample injection and proves to be a powerful complementary technique when used with computerized gas chromatography/mass spectrometry.
Background area, pattern height and discrimination learning for the hooded rat: preliminary findings and methodological comments.

Summary.-To separate effects of background size from pattern height, hooded rats were trained with: (a) patterns centered on large backgrounds, (b) patterns lowered on large backgrounds, (c) patterns centered on small backgrounds. For the first condition, patterns were higher than for the last rwo conditions. For the last 2 conditions, background areas were different, but pattetn heights were identical. No differences in learning were seen for these last 2 conditions and both resulted in better learning than the centered patterns on large backgrounds. It was concluded that decreasing background size, when patterns are centered, improves learning indirectly by either (a) decreasing pattern height or (b) increasing the contiguity of S's response to critical pattern features. Decreasing the area of the backgrounds upon which patterns were viewed has resulted in improved pattern discrimination for the hooded rat (Elias, 1967). The manner in which patterns and backgrounds were presented in Elias's experiment may explain the improvement in learning with smaller backgrounds. Correct and incorrect patterns were centered on their respective backgrounds. Both correct and incorrect patterns were presented together on the same trial and their square backgrounds were spaced equal distances apart regardless of their sizes. As a result, decreasing background area had two consequences: (1) correct and incorrect patterns became closer to each other (decreased pattern spacing), and (2) patterns became closer to the bottom border of their backgrounds (decreased pattern height). To determine the contribution of pattern spacing to improved learning, Elias and Stein (1968) varied pattern spacing, and Elias (1968) eliminated it entirely. Results revealed a positive relation between decreased spacing and improved learning; but even though pattern spacing was eliminated, decreased background size still resulted in improved learning. These studies indicate that the positive effect of decreased background size on learning cannot be completely explained in terms of decreased pattern spacing. Consequently, the present experiment was designed to explore the second correlate of decreased background size: decreased pattern height. In view of Lashley ( 1938) and Karn and Munn's ( 1932) respective findings that rats and dogs make discriminations based on the cues provided by the
Multiprocessor sparse LU decomposition with controlled fill-in

During L/U decomposition of a sparse matrix, it is possible to perform computation on many diagonal elements simultaneously. Pivots that can be processed in parallel are related by a compatibility relation and are grouped in a compatible set. The collection of all maximal compatibles yields different maximum sized sets of pivots that can be processed in parallel. Generation of the maximal compatibles is based on the construction of an incompatible table which gives information about pairs of incompatible pivots. The algorithm to generate all maximal compatibles involves a binary tree search and is exponential in the order of the matrix. A technique for obtaining an ordered compatible set directly from the ordered incompatible table is given. The ordering is based on the Markowitz number of the pivot candidates. This technique generates a set of compatible pivots with the property of generating few fills. A new heuristic algorithm is presented that combines the idea of an ordered compatible set with a limited binary tree search to generate several sets of compatible pivots in linear time. An elimination set to reduce the matrix is generated and selected on the basis of a minimum Markowitz sum number. The parallel pivoting technique presented is a stepwise algorithm and can be applied to any submatrix of the original matrix. Thus it is not a preordering of the sparse matrix and is applied dynamically as the decomposition proceeds. Parameters are suggested to obtain a balance between parallelism and fill-ins. Results of applying the proposed algorithms on several large application matrices and on the HEP multiprocessor are presented and analyzed.
Optimization of the Peroxy Acid Treatment of α-Methylnaphthalene and Benzo[a]pyrene in Sandy and Silty-Clay Sediments

The majority of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) released to the environment come from anthropogenic sources involving the incomplete combustion of organic compounds. Several techniques are available for the degradation of PAHs. Among the abiotic/biotic processes used to degrade PAHs, an alternative strategy utilizing a primary chemical oxidative step to be combined with a biological was created. The degradation of α-methylnaphthalene and benzo[a]pyrene using an advanced oxidation process was optimized over a period of 24 h by varying the ratio of acetic acid to hydrogen peroxide, the compounds that form peroxy acids. The optimization process was performed using sandy and silty-clay sediment types. Gas chromatog raphy equipped with a flame ionization detector was used to determine the varied rates of degradation depending on acetic acid:hydrogen peroxide ratios and the characteristics of the sediment sample. Reduction of 20−90% of α-methylnaphthalene and benzo[a]pyrene was observed when 2−5 mL of h...
Imaging issues for interferometric measurement of aspheric surfaces using CGH null correctors

Aspheric surfaces are measured using standard interferometers coupled with computer generated holograms (CGHs) that compensate the aspheric wavefronts. Such systems can measure complex aspheric shapes with accuracy of a few nanometers. However, the imaging properties of the interferometer-CGH combination can provide limitations for data mapping, resolution, and accuracy. These effects are explored, with an emphasis on the diffraction effects that are unique to interferometry.
Influence of phase angle between axial and torsional loadings on fatigue fractures of bone.

Abstract Fatigue fractures of cortical bone involve combined axial–torsional loading yet it is unknown how the relationship between axial and torsional loadings affects the fatigue behavior of bone. In this study the effect of superimposing in-phase and out-of-phase torsional on axial loading on the fatigue behavior of bone was investigated by conducting in vitro tests involving 0° and 90° phase shift between cyclic torsional and axial loadings. Results obtained indicate that fatigue life, patterns of moduli loss, microcracking and modes of fractures are dependent on the phase angle between axial and torsional loadings. Specimens subjected to in-phase torsional on axial loading demonstrated greater mixed mode interaction, underwent proportionate stiffness losses in tension, compression, and torsion, and consequently had a shorter fatigue life. In contrast, specimens subjected to out-of-phase loading regime displayed a smaller contribution of mixed mode failure, underwent a disproportionately large stiffness loss in torsion, and had a longer fatigue life. Furthermore, increase in phase angle provided additional planes on which damage was diffused delaying the final failure. Change in phase angle, seen in vivo during a number of physiological activities including walking, running and sprinting, will therefore affect fatigue behavior and contribute to pathogenesis of fatigue fractures.
Status of the NGS Adaptive Optic System at the MMT Telescope

The Natural Guide Star (NGS) Adaptive Optics System at the MMT Telescope (MMTAO) on Mt. Hopkins in Southern Arizona is the first in the world to use the secondary mirror as the correcting deformable mirror. Its 2.0 mm thin shell mirror, whose shape is controlled by 336 voice coil actuators, allows for nearly maximum throughput of light into the science camera. With several more deformable secondary mirrors coming online in the next few years, the lessons learned building, characterizing and operating the MMT Adaptive Optic System has proven to be quite valuable. These lessons will be discussed as well as future plans for the MMTAO System.
THE IMPACT OF ADDING AN EXTERNAL RATER ON INTERDEPARTMENTAL COOPERATIVE BEHAVIORS OF WORKERS

Prior research has illustrated the benefits of cooperation across groups. This study sought to identify methods to induce cooperation across groups. Three laboratory studies showed modifying performance appraisals to include intergroup behavior, and including an external supervisor evaluation, led to greater frequencies of helping behavior and more positive attitudes towards cooperating under scarce resource conditions.
Brown serum in tropical sprue.

Brown serum in patients with tropical sprue is described. Methemalbuminemia is responsible for this discoloration. The presence of brown serum during routine hospital laboratory testing led to the diagnosis of tropical sprue in 2 patients.
A heterogeneous population of defective RNAs is associated with lettuce infectious yellows virus.

Abstract Preparations of dsRNAs and virion RNAs extracted from Nicotiana clevelandii plants infected with the bipartite Lettuce infectious yellows virus (LIYV) were found to contain multiple LIYV RNA species. In addition to the two LIYV genomic RNAs, three types of RNAs were observed: (a) 3′ coterminal subgenomic RNAs; (b) RNAs containing LIYV RNA 1 or RNA 2 5′ terminus but lacking the 3′ terminus; and (c) RNAs with both LIYV RNA 2 3′ and 5′ termini but each with a central extensive deletion, a structure typical of defective RNAs (D RNAs). No D RNA-like RNAs were detected for LIYV RNA 1. A reverse transcription followed by polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR) strategy was used to clone from virion RNAs several LIYV RNA 2 D RNAs as cDNAs. Nucleotide sequence analysis of 43 cloned cDNAs showed in some D RNAs the presence of a stretch of 1–5 nt in the junction site that is repeated in the genomic RNA 2 in the two positions flanking the junction site or in close proximity. Some D RNAs contained in the junction site one or several extra nucleotides not present in the LIYV genomic RNA 2. Two of the cloned cDNAs were used to generate in vitro transcripts, and infectivity studies showed that both D RNAs were replication competent in protoplasts when coinoculated with LIYV RNAs 1 and 2 or with only LIYV RNA1. Neither D RNA showed obvious effects upon LIYV RNA 1 and RNA 2 accumulation in coinfected protoplasts. These data suggest that LIYV infections contain a heterogeneous population of LIYV RNA 2 D RNAs, and some are encapsidated into virions.
Stagnant-film combustion of an absorbing-emitting gas

Abstract Steady, diffusion-controlled combustion of an absorbing-emitting gas in a one-dimensional stagnant film is analyzed. Shvab-Zeldovich variables, the flame-sheet approximation, and the radiative equation of transfer are used to compute numerically temperature and species profiles to obtain heat and mass transfer rates for a gray medium with uniform absorption coefficient. For film optical depths greater than 0.1, gaseous radiation accounts for a substantial portion of the overall energy feednack to the fuel surface, and may exceed the conduction heat transfer by an order of magnitude. An optically thin solution is also considered which yields reasonable agreement with the complete analysis for optical depths below 0.1. Gaseous radiation may often be completely neglected for conditions in which the optically thin approximation is valid. A simple, flame-sheet radiation approximation which drastically reduces the numerical computations required to obtain a radiative solution is also discussed.
Transfer-printing of single DNA molecule arrays on graphene for high resolution electron imaging and analysis

Graphene represents the ultimate substrate for high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, but the deposition of biological samples on this highly hydrophobic material has until now been a challenge. We present a reliable method for depositing ordered arrays of individual elongated DNA molecules on single-layer graphene substrates for high-resolution electron beam imaging and electron energy loss spectroscopy analysis. This method is a necessary step toward the observation of single elongated DNA molecules with single base spatial resolution to directly read genetic and epigenetic information.
Overlapping resonances and S-matrix unitarity☆

Abstract If two overlapping resonances of the same spin and parity, both coupled to C open channels, are superimposed on an energy-independent background, unitarity imposes 2( C + 1) constraints on their S -matrix residues (i.e., partial widths and phases). These constraints are worked out explicitly for the general case of a nondiagonal background matrix (direct reactions present), and compared with the simpler Breit-Wigner constraints which obtain when the resonances are non-overlapping and the background is elastic. The phase angles of the two resonances are found to be related in an especially simple manner when the background is elastic. The case of T-violating interactions is considered briefly in Section VI.
Effect of human leukocyte antigen-C and -DQ matching on pediatric heart transplant graft survival.

Background A higher degree of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) matching at the A, B, and DR loci has been associated with improved long-term survival after pediatric heart transplantation in multiple International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation registry reports. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of HLA matching at the C and DQ loci with pediatric graft survival. Methods The United Network of Organ Sharing database was queried for isolated heart transplants that occurred from 1988 to 2012 with a recipient age of 17 or younger and at least 1 postoperative follow-up encounter. When HLA matching at the C or DQ loci were analyzed, only transplants with complete typing of donor and recipient at the respective loci were included. Transplants were divided into patients with at least 1 match at the C locus (C-match) vs no match (C-no), and at least 1 match at the DQ (DQ-match) locus vs no match (DQ-no). Primary outcome was graft loss. Univariate analysis was performed with the log-rank test. Cox regression analysis was performed with the following patient factors included in the model: recipient age, ischemic time; recipient on ventilator, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, ventricular assist device, or inotropes at transplant; recipient serum bilirubin and creatinine closest to transplant, ratio of donor weight to recipient weight, underlying cardiac diagnosis, crossmatch results, transplant year, and HLA matching at the A, B, and DR loci. Results Complete typing at the C locus occurred in 2,429 of 4,731 transplants (51%), and complete typing at the DQ locus occurred in 3,498 of 4,731 transplants (74%). Patient factors were similar in C-match and C-no, except for year of transplant (median year, 2007 [interquartile range, 1997–2010] vs year 2005 [interquartile range, 1996–2009], respectively; p = 0.03) and the degree of HLA matching at the A, B, and DR loci (high level of HLA matching in 11.9% vs 3%, respectively; p p = 0.44 log-rank; hazard ratio, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.76–1.15; p = 0.52). DQ-match did not differ from DQ-no in any of the analyzed patient factors, except DQ-match was more likely to have high degree of matching at the A, B, and DR loci vs DQ-no (9.8% vs 3.2%, p p = 0.80, log-rank; hazard ratio, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.81–1.1; p = 0.51. Conclusions Complete typing at the C locus of both donor and recipient occurs less often then typing at the DQ locus. A higher degree of donor-recipient HLA matching at the C locus or the DQ locus appears not to confer any graft survival advantage.
The nonlinear interaction between cartilage deformation and interstitial fluid flow

Abstract The movement of interstitial fluid through articular cartilage and its influence on the creep behavior of the tissue due to a unit step load function has been investigated. Experimental results are presented to show that the hydraulic permeability of articular cartilage depends on both the axial compressive strain on the tissue sample, as well as the driving pressure difference maintained across the specimen. These experimental results have been utilized in a known theory of a deformable and permeable material used to describe the behavior of articular cartilage. The creep-like behavior of the cartilage in compression has been analytically treated. It has been determined that the nonlinear interaction between the hydraulic permeability of the tissue and the compressive strain on the tissue retards the progress of the consolidation of the cartilage during uniaxial compression. However, the equilibrium displacement of the articular surface as t → ∞ depends only on the elastic constant of the parallel spring and dashpot viscoelastic behavior of the solid component of the tissue.
Who Supports the Troops? Vietnam, the Gulf War, and the Making of Collective Memory

During the Gulf War, U.S. media portrayed Vietnam-era protesters as having treated American soldiers shamefully during the Vietnam War. Even Gulf War protesters lent credence to this historical interpretation. By “supporting the troops,” dissenters distanced themselves from their counterparts during the Vietnam era and its “remembered” anti-troop sentiments. But after analysis of Vietnam era media, we find that the media of the time—consistent with most subsequent published accounts—did not report the movement as “anti-troop.” Although policymakers frequently attempted to imply that protesters were anti-troop, we find virtually no instances of protesters themselves being reported as targeting the troops. Our findings show that the memory of protester-troop antagonism is not so much the product of conflict between these two groups, but rather of a selectively remembered and edited past. Just as it hamstrung the anti-war movement during the Gulf War, the current recollection may endure as part of the conditions facing opponents of future military actions.
Relationships among linguistic processing speed, phonological working memory, and attention in children who stutter.

Relatively recently, experimental studies of linguistic processing speed in children who stutter (CWS) have emerged, some of which suggest differences in performance among CWS compared to children who do not stutter (CWNS). What is not yet well understood is the extent to which underlying cognitive skills may impact performance on timed tasks of linguistic performance. The purpose of this study was to explore possible relationships between measures of linguistic processing speed and two aspects of cognition: phonological working memory and attention. Participants were 9 CWS and 14 CWNS between the ages of 3;6 and 5;2. Children participated in a computerized picture naming task (an index of linguistic processing speed) and a nonword repetition task (an index of phonological working memory). Parents completed a temperament behavior questionnaire, from which information about the children’s attentional skills was collected. Findings revealed that the groups did not differ from each other on speed of picture naming or attention; however, the CWS performed significantly worse in nonword repetition. In addition, after partialling out the effects of age, (a) for CWS only, there was a significant negative relationship between picture naming speed and nonword repetition; (b) there were no significant relationships for either group between aspects of attention and picture naming speed; and (c) only the CWNS showed a significant relationship between nonword repetition and focused attentional skills. These results underscore the need to consider the underlying skills associated with lexically-related aspects of language production when examining the task performances of CWS and CWNS.
Rich-club phenomenon in the interactome of P. falciparum--artifact or signature of a parasitic life style?

Recent advances have provided a first experimental protein interaction map of the human malaria parasite P. falciparum, which appears to be remotely related to interactomes of other eukaryotes. Here, we present a comparative topological analysis of this experimentally determined web with a network of conserved interactions between proteins in S. cerevisiae, C. elegans and D. melanogaster that have an ortholog in Plasmodium. Focusing on experimental interactions, we find a significant presence of a “rich-club,” a topological characteristic that features an “oligarchy” of highly connected proteins being intertwined with one another. In complete contrast, the network of interologs and particularly the web of evolutionary-conserved interactions in P. falciparum lack this feature. This observation prompts the question of whether this result points to a topological signature of the parasite's biology, since experimentally obtained interactions widely cover parasite-specific functions. Significantly, hub proteins that appear in such an oligarchy revolve around invasion functions, shaping an island of parasite-specific activities in a sea of evolutionary inherited interactions. This presence of a biologically unprecedented network feature in the human malaria parasite might be an artifact of the quality and the methods to obtain interaction data in this organism. Yet, the observation that rich-club proteins have distinctive and statistically significant functions that revolve around parasite-specific activities point to a topological signature of a parasitic life style.
The hub protein loquacious connects the microRNA and short interfering RNA pathways in mosquitoes

Aedes aegypti mosquitoes vector several arboviruses of global health significance, including dengue viruses and chikungunya virus. RNA interference (RNAi) plays an important role in antiviral immunity, gene regulation and protection from transposable elements. Double-stranded RNA binding proteins (dsRBPs) are important for efficient RNAi; in Drosophila functional specialization of the miRNA, endo-siRNA and exo-siRNA pathway is aided by the dsRBPs Loquacious (Loqs-PB, Loqs-PD) and R2D2, respectively. However, this functional specialization has not been investigated in other dipterans. We were unable to detect Loqs-PD in Ae. aegypti; analysis of other dipteran genomes demonstrated that this isoform is not conserved outside of Drosophila. Overexpression experiments and small RNA sequencing following depletion of each dsRBP revealed that R2D2 and Loqs-PA cooperate non-redundantly in siRNA production, and that these proteins exhibit an inhibitory effect on miRNA levels. Conversely, Loqs-PB alone interacted with mosquito dicer-1 and was essential for full miRNA production. Mosquito Loqs interacted with both argonaute 1 and 2 in a manner independent of its interactions with dicer. We conclude that the functional specialization of Loqs-PD in Drosophila is a recently derived trait, and that in other dipterans, including the medically important mosquitoes, Loqs-PA participates in both the miRNA and endo-siRNA based pathways.
Layering Networked and Symphonic Selves: A Critical Role for e-Portfolios in Employability through Integrative Learning

Purpose – E‐portfolios, which document and facilitate learning and performance, have recently attracted interest in the USA, UK, and Europe as means to increase employability and support lifelong learning. This article aims to critically examine these objectives in order to guide the future e‐portfolio practice.Design/methodology/approach – Social theory, drawing on the work of Foucault, suggests that the discourse of employability and lifelong learning shapes individuals into means to fulfill economic objectives. This theory is applied to show that many e‐portfolio projects participate in this discourse. In the USA, the discourse around integrative learning suggests an alternative.Findings – Integrative learning has two different styles, which correspond with two different types of self, the network and symphonic. The network self suggests ways for e‐portfolios to promote employability, while representing the symphonic in e‐portfolios creates space for a broader conception of what is important in life th...
NUCLEAR ANALYSIS APPLICATIONS IN COOPERATIVE TEXAS FORENSIC INVESTIGATION PROGRAM

For the past two years, a cooperative nuclear forensic investigation program has been in operation in the Nuclear Reactor Laboratory at the University of Texas at Austin. An essential partner in this program has been the Crime Laboratories of the Texas Department of Public Safety, Under this program, both routine analyses of typical physical evidence samples and comprehensive survey analyses of classes of materials with forensic importance have been carried out. Both radioisotope-excited nondispersive X-ray fluorescence and multielement instrumental neutron activation analyses have been used, the first technique for screening incoming samples and performing macro-constituent analyses and the second for performing quantitative trace element analyses. Close coordination of routine analyses with the Crime Laboratories has provided supportive and complementary analyses of physical trace evidence samples for the preparation of investigative results. Carefully selected survey projects, such as the trace element characterization of safe platers and shotgun pellets described in this paper, have contributed to the development of background data available for forensic analysis in other laboratories.
Electrical Charging of Shuttle Orbiter

The Space Shuttle Orbiter has the geometrical configuration of an aircraft and nonconducting outer skin that is expected to generate considerable transient charging and local potential differences due to the ambient ionospheric plasma. Emission of high-current electron beams has been proposed for the AMPS Spacelab payload that would induce large potentials and return currents to the orbiter skin. Quantitative estimates are presented for the magnitude and transient behavior for both the passive and active conditions. A comprehensive model of the Orbiter environment has been defined that includes the ambient ionospheric medium at a nominal altitude of 400 km and the neutral gas cloud expelled by the vehicle. The outer skin of the vehicle is covered with ~ 1300 m2 of thermal insulation which is fibrous silicon dioxide, and ~ 60 m2 of metal surfaces on rocket motors and exposed instrumentation on the spacelab pallet. The thermal insulation has the dielectric quality of air and an electrical conductivity that has been extimated by NASA at 10-9 to 10-10 per meter but may be as low as 10-13 mhos/m. Local equilibrium potentials for passive conditions (no electron gun current) have been calculated for various ion, electron, and photon shadow zones. These potentials very from -2.4 volts where only electrons and insulator leakage current are present to +3.9 volts where only ion ram current is collected.
Simple multivariate polynomial multiplication

Abstract We observe that polynomial evaluation and interpolation can be performed fast over a multidimensional grid (lattice), and we apply this observation in order to devise a simple algorithm for multivariate polynomial multiplication. Surprisingly, this simple idea enables us to improve the known algorithms for multivariate polynomial multiplication based on the forward and backward application of Kronecker's map; in particular, we decrease, by the factor log log N, the known upper bound on the arithmetic time-complexity of this computation (over any field of constants), provided that the degree d in each of the m variables is fixed, m grows to the infinity, and N = (d + 1)m.
User cost and housing tenure in developing countries

Abstract This paper reports on research conducted at the World Bank to increase understanding of developing country housing markets; in particular, of housing demand behavior. The objectives of the paper are (1) to briefly review recent evidence on housing demand parameters in developing countries, including new estimates for Colombia, Egypt, El Salvador, Ghana, India, Jamaica, Korea and the Philippines, and (2) to examine similarities and differences among cities in housing demand. The analysis emphasizes differences in housing demand by tenure (particularly for renters and owners, but also for squatters and non-squatters) and, paralleling the literature in developed countries, stresses the importance of accounting for the impact of income and relative prices on housing demand.
Functional and nonfunctional mutations distinguished by random recombination of homologous genes

We describe a convenient method for distinguishing functional from nonfunctional or deleterious mutations in homologous genes. High fidelity in vitro gene recombination ("DNA shuffling") coupled with sequence analysis of a small sampling of the shuffled library exhibiting the evolved behavior allows identification of those mutations responsible for the behavior in a background of neutral and deleterious mutations. Functional mutations are expected to occur in 100% of the sequenced screened sample; neutral mutations are found in 50% on average, and deleterious mutations do not appear at all. When used to analyze 10 mutations in a laboratory-evolved gene encoding a thermostable subtilisin E, this method rapidly identified the two responsible for the observed protease thermostability; the remaining eight were neutral with respect to thermostability, within the precision of the screening assay. A similar approach, coupled with selection for growth and survival of the host organism, could be used to distinguish adaptive from neutral mutations.
The electrostatic storage display tube

The electrostatic storage display tube is a special vacuum tube which combines the intrinsic charge-storage property of a dielectric membrane with the high-speed high-resolution capability of a newly developed electron gun and an independent optical system to provide bright high-contrast large-screen displays. Writing and recording functions have been completely separated from the actual display function, thus providing several advantages over conventional storage display tubes. The same tube may be used for either theater-size displays or hard-copy outputs on photosensitive media. Four phases of the tube are covered in this paper: its basic characterstics, construction, applications, and preliminary speculations on reliability.
Abnormal second-trimester serum analytes are more predictive of preterm preeclampsia

Objective We sought to determine the association of abnormal second-trimester serum analytes with early preterm preeclampsia. Study Design We conducted a retrospective study of 7767 subjects undergoing second-trimester serum aneuploidy screening. Values of maternal serum α-fetoprotein (AFP), β-human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), and inhibin (INH) were calculated as multiples of the median (MoM) and evaluated by gestational age at delivery and occurrence of preeclampsia. Results Of 459 (6.5%) cases of preeclampsia, 65 (14%) delivered 34 weeks. Elevated AFP, hCG, and INH >2 MoM were associated with preeclampsia, and the odds ratio was higher for the development of preeclampsia 34 weeks (odds ratio, 8.04 vs 2.91 for AFP, 3.6 vs 2 for hCG, and 4.17 vs 3.08 for INH, P Conclusion Elevated AFP, hCG, and INH levels >2 MoM are associated with developing early preeclampsia, and the more elevated they are, the higher the likelihood.
Injury zone denervation in traumatic quadriplegia in humans

In order to obtain an electrophysiological characterization of the injury zone in traumatic quadriplegia, we performed electromyography and nerve conduction studies on the upper limbs of 15 patients with cervical cord trauma. Evidence of significant axonal loss was found in multiple myotomes of all patients. In most cases, the level of the most severe denervation, as determined by the absence or diminution of the compound motor action potential and the density of fibrillation potentials, was 2-5 spinal segments below the clinically and radiologically defined injury levels. In patients with injuries, the rostral extent of which is at C5 or higher, the most obvious clinical and electromyographic denervation was seen in the intrinsic hand muscles (C8/T1), with complete loss of C8/T1 motor axons in a subset of these patients. Our results document that spinal cord trauma can cause loss of motor axons in regions several segments caudal to the rostral level of injury. This finding may have implications for the pathophysiology of secondary injury, for recovery potential, and for the design of rehabilitation strategies.
Transaction models for federative distributed database systems

Abstract Federative Distributed Database System (FDDBS) are composed out of independent nodes in a computer network. Each server node comprises a Database Management System (DBMS) offering services of different quality to the outside world, i.e. remote users at client systems. In addition local services are offered to local users. Server nodes are independent from other notes. This reflects the characteristic of an dynamically growing and shrinking federation of databases in open systems. Typically user applications are distributed and should be supported by management functions that guarantees certain service quality. The most important are atomicity and isolation. Units of works that provides such characteristics are distributed transactions. In this paper we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of two transaction models with respect to FDDBSs. Beside traditional distributed (global) transactions we consider a model based on the Saga approach. We show how both can be integrated in one environment. The approach taken increases node autonomy and allows for a higher degree of parallelism without loss of the advantages of traditional distributed transactions.
Preparation of specific antisera to Drosophila acid phosphatase without rigorous protein purification.

Extracts from an acid phosphatase CRM− null mutant of Drosophila melanogaster were used to eliminate contaminating antibodies in a nonspecific preparation of anti-acid phosphatase serum. This method of producing specific antisera makes unnecessary the rigorous purification of an antigen prior to immunization attempts in those cases where CRM− null mutants of the antigen are available. Antisera so prepared could be used for a wide variety of purposes.
Sensitivity of the polarization ratio method to aerosol concentration

A multiwavelength, multistatic optical scattering instrument is being developed to characterize spherical aerosols. This instrument uses 405 nm (blue), 532 nm (green) and 655 nm (red) diode lasers and two CCD imagers to measure the angular distribution of light scattered from aerosols. The incident light is polarized parallel or perpendicular to the scattering plane; the scattered intensity is measured at backscatter angles ranging from 120° to 170° by CCD imagers. The phase function for each polarization is used to form the polarization ratio, which is used to characterize the aerosols. This method has proven to be a reliable way to characterize spherical aerosols by matching the measured polarization ratio with the polarization ratio calculated by the Mie scattering equations. This method is used to determine the number density, size distribution, and index of refraction of the aerosols. The sensitivity of the polarization ratio to particle concentration is explored using a narrow distribution of one micron polystyrene beads in a chamber. The aerosol concentration is found via an inversion technique that is based on Mie calculations. This study provides the basis for transitioning this instrument to measure multiple particle size ranges and concentrations for common aerosols in an outdoor environment.
Divergence Insufficiency Revisited: Natural History of Idiopathic Cases and Neurologic Associations

Objectives To determine the natural history of primary divergence insufficiency and to identify clinical features that distinguish patients with this neurologically isolated form of divergence insufficiency from those harboring neurologic disorders. Methods Retrospective survey of patients with divergence insufficiency. Patients were categorized into 2 groups, primary (ie, neurologically isolated based on clinical criteria) and secondary (ie, associated with a neurologic or systemic disorder). Long-term follow-up and clinical features of the 2 groups were compared. Results Of the 20 patients with primary divergence insufficiency, 19 (95%) were older than 50 years. Symptoms resolved in 8 (40%) of 20 patients after a median of 5 months. None of these patients developed signs of an underlying neurologic disorder during follow-up. Of the 15 patients with secondary divergence insufficiency, an underlying neurologic or systemic disorder was either known or initially suspected in all based on the initial history and physical examination. Divergence fusion amplitudes were significantly larger in patients with secondary divergence insufficiency compared with those with primary divergence insufficiency, although there was considerable overlap of values between the 2 groups. Conclusions Primary divergence insufficiency is generally a benign condition. Many affected patients experience spontaneous resolution of double vision within several months. The clinical neurologic evaluation is a powerful tool that distinguishes those with a primary disorder from those harboring an underlying neurologic or systemic condition. It is reasonable to initially defer further investigation, including neuroimaging, in patients who have no other neurologic symptoms or signs.
Improved Methods for Quantitative Determination of Methadone

A spectrophotometric method is described that permits the rapid analysis of methadone in urine or tissues at concentrations corresponding to therapeutic, maintenance, or toxic doses of that drug. As little as 5 μg may be detected in a biological specimen. The procedure involves an alkaline extraction into n-hexane and subsequent back-extraction into a ceric sulfate–sulfuric acid solution. The acid extract is refluxed with n-heptane for 30 min, oxidizing methadone to benzophenone which, in contrast to the unchanged drug, has a high molar absorptivity in the UV region. A GLC method is also described. Both procedures require fewer manipulations and less analysis time than previously reported methods for determining methadone.
The International Accounting Education Standards Board: Influencing Global Accounting Education

ABSTRACT: The purpose of this paper is to make readers aware of Accounting Education Standards (IESs), which are developed by the International Accounting Education Standards Board (IAESB). These standards are influencing accounting education and training worldwide. Less than a decade old, the IESs are enforced through the member bodies of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) and professional accountancy organizations throughout the world. The goal of the IESs is to ensure that economic decision makers can rely on the competence of professional accountants regardless of the country where the accountants received their education and training. Differing cultures, languages, and social, educational, and legal systems pose a challenge for developing a globally applicable set of international accounting education standards. Accounting educators can help the IAESB meet this challenge by responding to IAESB exposure drafts, undertaking research relevant to issues being addressed by the IAESB, becom...
Can carbon sequestration markets benefit low-income producers in semi-arid Africa? Potentials and challenges

Abstract The Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) of the Kyoto Protocol of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change allows a country that emits C above agreed-upon limits to purchase C offsets from an entity that uses biological means to absorb or reduce greenhouse emissions. The CDM is currently offered for afforestation and reforestation projects, but may apply subsequently to sequestration in agricultural soils. Additionally, markets outside of the Protocol are developing for soil C sequestration. In theory, C markets present win-win opportunities for buyers and sellers of C stocks. In practice, however, C markets are very complex. They presuppose the existence and integration of technical capacity to enhance C storage in production systems, the capacity for resource users to adopt and maintain land resource practices that sequester C, the ability for dealers or brokers to monitor C stocks at a landscape level, the institutional capacity to aggregate C credits, the financial mechanisms for incentive payments to reach farmers, and transparent and accountable governance structures that can ensure equitable distribution of benefits. Hence, while C payments may contribute to increasing rural incomes and promoting productivity enhancement practices, they may also expose resource users to additional social tensions and institutional risks.