cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Statistical power and criminal justice research

Abstract This comprehensive power-analytic investigation reviewed 129 articles in eight leading criminal justice/criminology journals. Three statistical power determinations were made for each of 3689 reported tests of significance, and the average power for detecting a range of possible treatment effects was calculated for each of the fifty-three studies subsequently included in the analysis. Among other findings, fully sixty-six percent of the fifty-three articles analyzed had less than a 50-50 chance of detecting a “small” treatment effect. Average power figures culled from similar surveys in other disciplines demonstrated that the problem of low statistical power is not unique to research in criminal justice/criminology. In fact, this survey found appreciably higher power levels than have been revealed in other disciplines. Additionally, the practical consequences of low statistical power are outlined, and workable guidelines for reporting the information necessary for the independent evaluation of published studies are provided.
Studies of RNA polymerase in mature avian erythrocytes

Abstract Isolated nuclei from mature erythrocytes of adult chickens possess RNA polymerase activity which is sensitive to the mushroom toxin α-amanitin. The enzyme responsible for this activity was solubilized from isolated nuclei and partially purified by DEAE-Sephadex chromatography. While low levels of activity resistant to α-amanitin were detected in isolated nuclei, no activity resistant to the toxin could be demonstrated with the partially purified enzyme.
Neuropsychiatric disturbance after initiation of varenicline in a patient with a history of alcohol abuse and major depression.

Purpose. The case of a patient with a history of alcohol abuse and major depression who developed neuropsychiatric symptoms after initiation of varenicline is reported. Summary. A 33-year-old Caucasian man was prescribed varenicline for smoking cessation. He had a history of hypertension, alcohol dependency, major depression, and hypothyroidism. The patient’s only reported allergy was to morphine. The patient reported smoking four or five cigarettes daily for 10 years and discontinued alcohol use 2 years before varenicline initiation. He was prescribed varenicline 0.5 mg once daily; after three days, the dosage was increased to 0.5 mg twice daily, based on recommendations in the package insert. On the evening of the seventh day, after taking 10 doses of varenicline, the patient developed severe anxiety, nausea, vertigo, blurred vision, and dizziness. He reported to his physician’s office where his blood pressure was 120/75 mm Hg and his heart rate was approximately 70 beats/min. His laboratory test results were unremarkable for liver and kidney dysfunction. Since the only recent change to his drug therapy was the initiation of varenicline, the drug was discontinued, after which his symptoms subsided gradually and completely disappeared after three days. The patient declined rechallenge with varenicline one week later. The patient’s score on the Naranjo et al. adverse drug reaction probability scale was 6, indicating a probable relationship between treatment with varenicline and the patient’s symptoms. Conclusion. A patient with a history of alcohol dependence and major depression developed severe anxiety, nausea, vertigo, blurred vision, and dizziness after initiation of varenicline.
The influence of mist irrigation on the potato IV. Tuber quality factors

The influence of irrigation method on tuber quality factors was assessed during three seasons. Low volume “mist” irrigation (M), furrow irrigation (F), mist plus furrow (MF) and no irrigation (NI) were compared.
Catabiotic autosusception; a rapid prospective survey.

(1948). Catabiotic Autosusception: A Rapid Prospective Survey. The Journal of Psychology: Vol. 25, No. 1, pp. 197-204.
Neutral excitations from a tritium source immersed in He II

Abstract It is shown that energetic neutral excitations are produced by a β − source provided a large electric field is applied in the source region.
Fat absorption studies in children. I. Influence of heat treatment on milk on fat retention by premature infants.

Summary A total of 98 fat balance studies varying from 3 to 7 days duration was made on 32 premature infants weighing at the beginning of the studies from 960 to 2 220 g. The fat content of diet varied from 2.6 to 7.8 g/kg/day and was supplied from breast milk, raw, frozen or heated at various temperatures for different intervals of time or from cow's milk, pasteurized, or subjected to heating at various temperatures for different periods. It is concluded that prematures retain breast milk fat to a remarkably high degree even though the breast milk has been frozen or subjected to various heat treatments. Premature infants do not retain fat from cow's milk as efficiently as they do human milk fat. The nature of the heat treatment of cow's milk did not influence the degree of retention.
Mortality factors of satin moth, Leucoma salicis [Lep.: Lymantriidae] , in aspen forests in Maine

Natural control agents of the satin moth,Leucoma salicis (L.) were examined in 2Populus grandidentataMichaux stands. Highest mortality occurred in overwintering larvae, with the causal agents 2 fungi,Paecilomyces sp. andHirsutella giganteaPetch, a factor causing death symptomatic of a pathogen, the parasiteEupteromalis hemipterus (Walker) and death from unknown causes. Mortality fromPaecilomyces sp. andE. hemipterus was reduced where overwintering sites were covered with burlap cloth. Parasites recovered from larvae and pupae included the braconidsApanteles melanoscelus (Ratzeburg) andMeteorus versicolor (Wesmeal), the ichneumonidCoccygomimus pedalis (Cresson), the tachinidsCompsilura concinnata (Meigen),Carcelia laxifronsVilleneuve,Tachinomyia variataCurran, and the sarcophagidsSarcophaga aldrichiParker andAgria houseiShewell. Larval and pupal predators included the carabidCalosoma frigidumKirby, pentatomids, and birds, particularly black-billed cuckoos,Coccyzus erythrophthaimus (Wilson). Eggs were parasitized by the scelionidTelenomus prob.californicusAshmead and the trichogrammidTrichogramma minutum (Riley). Predators of adult satin moths included the hermit thrush,Hylocichla guttata (Pallas), and pentatomid bugs.
Representation aiding: complementary decision support for a complex, dynamic control task

Representation aiding, a form of decision support that relies heavily, although not exclusively, on computer graphics is discussed. The design of successful representation aids depends on the tasks to be performed and characteristics of human cognition and perception. Issues in design are discussed with reference to a set of representation aids that were developed for a particularly difficult task involving the manual start-up of a nuclear reactor. The results of a research program to evaluate these representation aids are described. Representation aiding is contrasted to complementary forms of decision support. >
Epidemiologic Patterns of Wild-Type Hepatitis A Virus Determined by Genetic Variation

Hepatitis A virus (HAV) isolates from different parts of the world are a single serotype. However, genetic analysis of the VP1 genome region of published HAV sequences suggested that distinct genotypes of HAV could be defined based upon the geographic source of the original isolates. To circumvent the process of cell culture adaptation or animal passage, a 247-bp segment within the VP1 genome region of wild-type HAV was amplified by reverse transcription followed by polymerase chain reaction amplification in the presence of negative- and positive-sense primers. From the sequences obtained from 22 epidemiologically distinct HAV isolates, three genetic groups of HAV could be delineated. Two of the groups differed by 10%, while the third group differed from other isolates by approximately 20%. These investigations indicate that HAV isolates from different parts of the world can be differentiated genetically, which will facilitate studies of epidemiologic transmission.
A file structure for a terminal reservation system

This paper describes a cyclic file structure which can be used in a terminal reservation system. The structure is designed so that the file reorganizes itself dynamically. Some considerations for an accompanying system are presented.
Sociolinguistics and Sociology: Current Directions, Future Partnerships

In this article, I discuss the past, present, and future of interdisciplinary scholarship between sociolinguists and sociologists. After detailing some of the broader history of collaboration between sociolinguists and sociologists, I examine two sub-areas of scholarship: the variationist tradition from sociolinguistics and the social stratification tradition from sociology. I contend that, given their complementary research questions and analytic traditions, these areas provide new potential for interdisciplinary research initiatives. I give suggestions for research partnerships between sociolinguists and sociologists, and close with a discussion of some practical ways in which sociolinguists and sociologists can build interdisciplinarity both pedagogically as well as professionally.
Incorporation of glucose carbon into protein of the islets of Langerhans from toadfish (Opsanus tau).

Isolated islets of toadfish have been incubated for periods up to 48 hours at 20° C, and glucose uptake, lactate production, glucose oxidation to CO2, and incorporation of glucose carbon into protein have been studied. Glucose carbon was incorporated into an acid ethanol extractable protein fraction exhibiting an Rf similar to beef and fish (bonito and tuna) insulin in the system described, as well as biological insulin activity.
Optical energy storage and retrieval

Abstract Spatial localization of optical excitations has been demonstrated recently for inhomogeneously broadened systems. A “triggering” scheme is proposed which uses relaxation produced phonons, or heat pulses, as catalyzers for spatial transport.
Internal temperature and packaging system affect stability of cooked chicken leg patties during refrigerated storage

Internal end-point temperature (EPT), packaging system and storage time affected chemical stability and microbiological quality of chicken meat. Patties of broiler leg muscle were heated to EPT of 60, 65, 70, 75, 80 or 85 o C, packaged in polyethylene bags or vacuum skin packs and stored at 4°C up to 14 days. Microbial total plate counts were less than 10 colony forming units/g at EPT 70 o C; with negligible growth during 7 days storage. EPT and packaging method did not affect initial thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) but higher EPT accelerated the increases in TBARS values upon storage. Several volatiles including hexanal and pentanal increased with EPT and storage time
Isolation of human angiotensinogen.

Abstract A four step procedure has been devised for the isolation of human angiotensinogen. Antisera to human angiotensinogen has been prepared. It appears to be an immunochemically homogenous protein. Some heterogeneity can be noted on polycrylamide electrophoresis. The renin-releasable angiotensin I content is only 16% of the theoretical value. The cause of the loss of angiotensin I during purification is unknown.
Practice With Persons With Autism Spectrum Disorders: Predictors of Self-Efficacy Among Social Work Students

Diagnoses of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) have been on the rise, and the need for knowledgeable and competent professionals is dire. However, few social workers enter the field of ASDs. Rooted in social cognitive theory, this study examined the extent to which knowledge, interest, contact, and training predicted master's in social work students' self-efficacy in working with individuals with ASDs. Approximately 18% of the variance was explained (R2 = .18, p < .001), with knowledge and contact predicting a significant proportion of the variance. Implications for social work practice and education are discussed.
Nanomechanical Properties of SiC Films Grown From C60 Precursors Using Atomic Force Microscopy

The mechanical properties of SiC films grown via C 60 precursors were determined using atomic force microscopy (AFM). Conventional silicon nitride and diamond-tipped steel AFM cantilevers were employed to determine the film hardness, friction coefficient, and elastic modulus. The hardness is found to be 26 GPa by nanoindentation of the film with a Berkovich diamond tip. The friction coefficient for the silicon nitride tip on the SiC film is about one half to one third that for silicon nitride sliding on a silicon substrate. By combining nanoindentation and AFM measurements an elastic modulus of ∼300 GPa is estimated for these SiC films.
Selfless evolution: A new consensus

We should be prepared to acknowledge the influence of a highly individualistic culture on theories put forward during the second half of the 20th century
When, how, and why prove theorems? A methodology for studying the perspective of geometry teachers

While every theorem has a proof in mathematics, in US geometry classrooms not every theorem is proved. How can one explain the practitioner’s perspective on which theorems deserve proof? Toward providing an account of the practical rationality with which practitioners handle the norm that every theorem has a proof we have designed a methodology that relies on representing classroom instruction using animations. We use those animations to trigger commentary from experienced practitioners. In this article we illustrate how we model instructional situations as systems of norms and how we create animated stories that represent a situation. We show how the study of those stories as prototypes of a basic model can help anticipate the response from practitioners as well as suggest issues to be considered in improving a model.
Neutron diffraction study of the oxychloride layered perovskite, (CuCl)LaNb2O7

Abstract The structure of the oxychloride layered perovskite, (CuCl)LaNb 2 O 7 , has been examined by neutron diffraction. Rietveld refinement of room temperature neutron TOF data, while consistent with the previous X-ray study, allows for an improved modeling of the structure. The structure consists of double perovskite layers (LaNb 2 O 7 ) separated by copper chloride layers. The copper is octahedrally coordinated, bridging between apical oxygens from the perovskite layer and surrounded by four chlorines in the CuCl plane; this gives rise to edge-sharing CuO 2 Cl 4 octahedra. The chlorines within the CuCl plane were found to move off the ideal (0, 0, 1/2) position to a more general position, ( x , 0, 1/2). This disorder leads to a combination of four short and two long distances, common to the Jahn–Teller distorted environments for d 9 copper. Structural details are discussed with respect to their influence on the chlorine disorder.
AMPHIBIAN MELANOPHORES BECOME PHOTOSENSITIVE WHEN TREATED WITH RETINAL

Culture Xenopus melanophores treated with all-trans retinal disperse their pigment granules when exposed to light, but fail to do so when maintained in retinoid-free medium. Two similar, but distinct, responses to retinal are described. One cellular cohort (fast cells) requires less than 4 h of retinal treatment to become photosensitive; the other (slow cells) requires up to 7 days of retinal treatment. Fast cells are usually, but not always, more sensitive to retinal, responding to concentrations as low as 1 nM retinal. Slow cells require 10–100 nM retinal before they become photosensitive. In both slow and fast cells, retinal isomers are more potent activators of photosensitivity than retinols. Retinoic acid is not effective when given alone. Pretreatment with retinoic acid, however, enhances the cellular sensitivity to retinal so that slow cells tend to assume the characteristics of fast cells. These findings demonstrate that melanophore responses to light in vitro vary as a function of culture conditions and that retinal can activate melanophore photosensitivity. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Age, gender, and Internet attitudes among employees in the business world

Abstract This study explored a telecommunication enterprise employees' Internet usage in the business world. A total of 680 employees voluntarily participated in this study. Data collection was conducted through its local telecommunication enterprise intranet and all entries were automatically collected in an electronic format as a spreadsheet. The research findings clearly indicated that the majority of the employees in the business world frequently used an emerging technology – Internet. Statistically significant differences in Internet usefulness and anxiety were found among different education levels, male and female employees, and age groups. Simultaneous multiple regression analyses revealed that the combined effect Internet enjoyment, anxiety, and efficacy contributed significantly to Internet usefulness; and the combined effect of Internet usefulness, enjoyment, and efficacy contributed significantly to Internet anxiety.
Functional differences between yeast and human TFIID are localized to the highly conserved region

TFIID, the general transcription factor that binds TATA promoter elements, is highly conserved throughout the eukaryotic kingdom. TFIIDs from different organisms contain C-terminal core domains that are at least 80% identical and display similar biochemical properties. Despite these similarities, yeast cells containing human TFIID instead of the endogenous yeast protein grow extremely poorly. Surprisingly, this functional distinction reflects differences in the core domains, not the divergent N-terminal regions. The N-terminal region is unimportant for the essential function(s) of yeast TFIID because expression of the core domain permits efficient cell growth. Analysis of yeast-human hybrid TFIIDs indicates that several regions within the conserved core account for the phenotypic difference, with some regions being more important than others. This species specificity might reflect differences in DNA-binding properties and/or interactions with activator proteins or other components of the RNA polymerase II transcription machinery.
Administration of corticosterone to pregnant adrenalectomized dams does not alter the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis' activity of the offspring.

Abstract We have previously suggested a possible role of increased maternal corticosterone (CORT) secretion in mediating the endocrine effects of prenatal alcohol administration. We tested this hypothesis by adrenalectomizing pregnant rats and exposing them to high levels of CORT that mimicked those previously measured in intact dams exposed to alcohol. CORT (28 mg/day) or placebo pellets were placed subcutaneously in adrenalectomized (ADX) dams during Days 8–14 of gestation. At 21 days of age, the offspring were either decapitated under nonstressed conditions or exposed to mild, inescapable electroshocks (1.5 mA; 1 s duration; 2.5/min) over a 10-min period and then sacrificed. Plasma ACTH and CORT levels were measured by radioimmunoassay. There were no measurable differences between basal or stress-induced ACTH secretion of pups born to ADXCORT or ADX-placebo dams. In contrast, the offspring of ADX-CORT dams demonstrated significantly ( P ⩽ 0.01; P ⩽ 0.05) lower CORT secretion when exposed to the shocks despite unaltered basal levels. Measurement of CRF expression by in situ hybridization methodology indicated no difference between CRF biosynthesis of both groups of pups. These results do not support the hypothesis that the increased stress-induced ACTH release of rats born to intact dams exposed to alcohol is primarily mediated by increased maternal corticosterone levels.
The effect of folate and cobalamin on osteoarthritic hands.

Historically diet and arthritis have been cause/effect associated but the idea is controversial with little evidence that specific diet components are effective treatment. This controlled, double-blinded, crossover study reports the effect of folate and cobalamin supplements in 26 humans diagnosed for an average 5.7 years with idiopathic osteoarthritis of the hands who had been medicated by prescribed nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID).Subjects entered the study after a 10-day washout period from use of all anti-arthritis drugs, vitamins, and minerals. They were randomly allocated to consume daily 6400 micrograms folate or 6400 micrograms folate plus 20 micrograms cobalamin or lactose placebo each for 2 months within self-selected diets. Pain was to be medicated by acetaminophen as needed, and at the end of each phase they returned for assessment and dispensing of the next treatment. Serum folate and cobalamin, red blood cell folate, blood smears, diet records, standard rheumatology assessment a...
Muscle Strength Assessment from the EMG Frequency Spectrum

Assessment of a worker's strength is of great interest when evaluating the worker's ability to safely perform a job. Many previous studies have shown that surface electromyogram EMG amplitudes correlate well with muscle force. The present study furthered this concept by using EMG power spectra to achieve a quantified representation of true strength capability. Two groups of male subjects performed isometric elbow flexions while EMG was obtained from the right belly of biceps brachii. One group exercised their arms regularly while the other not. Six different levels of graded maximum voluntary contraction (%MVC) were selected to examine the relations between muscle tension and the mean power frequency (MPF) resulting from EMG power spectra. Resultant MPF's ranged between 50Hz and 70Hz in agreement with previous research results. Two-way ANOVA showed that, in the trained group, a significant increase in the MPF was found at near maximum contractions, whereas the other group failed to show any difference. Fu...
An experimental and theoretical study of a complex stochastic system in nonlinear fiber optics

Summary form only given. We present an experimental and computational study of a moderately complex stochastic system realized using nonlinear optics. Our system involves multiorder stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) of noisy pump pulses in optical fiber. This system entangles and shapes multiple sources of noise through cascaded nonlinear interactions, and displays definite statistical signatures of the different noise sources and the cascaded nonlinear processes that shape them.
A reciprocity approach for calculating radiation patterns of arbitrarily shaped microstrip antennas mounted on circularly cylindrical platforms

The paper presents a convenient and efficient approach, based on the reciprocity theorem, for calculating the radiation patterns of arbitrarily shaped microstrip antennas with dielectric substrate and superstrate layers mounted on circularly cylindrical platforms. A detailed theoretical development followed by examples with numerical and graphical results illustrate the versatility of the technique. The reciprocity approach presented is very flexible and may be used in conjunction with any of the commonly employed computational electromagnetics modeling approaches such as the method of moments, finite-element methods, and finite-difference time-domain techniques.
Particle selectivity, gut volume, and the response to a step change in diet for depositfeeding polychaetes

We performed a series of experiments to examine the aspects of deposit feeding that were relevant to studies of resource variability over short time scales. We examined particle-size selectivity, gut volume, gut residence time, and the response to a change in diet in three polychaete species: Spiochaetopterus oculatus, Spio setosand Marenzelleria viridis. All three species were particle-size selective and had similar gut volumes and gut residence times. Thus, measurements of bulk sediment characteristics are largely irrelevant to the studies of their nutrition. In response to a step change in diet, changes in the egestion rate were accomplished by smooth transitions between steady-state rates occurring over 1 to 2 h. The form of this modulation suggests that these organisms do not respond to changes in diet by temporarily retaining or flushing the material in the gut in order to increase digestive yield. The time scale of the response to a change in diet provides evidence for a foregut/midgut feedback mechanism for inducing changes in feeding rate due to sediment food concentration. If the time required to modulate the feeding rate to a new steady state is more rapid than the time scale of food-resource variability in the field, it is unlikely that a response other than a gradual transition to a new ingestion rate would provide a significant advantage.
STATE COURT DISPARITY ON EMPLOYMENT AT-WILL

State courts have produced three major exceptions to the employment at-will doctrine: (1) violation of public policy, (2) breach of an implied contract (including written policies, oral promises, and implied covenants of good faith and fair dealing), and (3) commitment of a tort of emotional distress, defamation, or third-party interference with a contractual relationship. We analyzed state appellate court decisions to identify judicial philosophies and to determine which states have accepted or rejected the various exceptions to employment at-will. Our results show that the states vary considerably. The most commonly accepted arguments against employment at-will are violations of public policy, breaches of implied contracts in employee handbooks, and torts of outrageous emotional distress. Overall, this research highlights the need for statewide consistency with regard to the at-will issue.
Testing of inter-word coupling faults in word-oriented SRAMs

A new algorithm to detect inter-word coupling faults in word-organized SRAMs (WOMs) is proposed in this paper. This algorithm (referred to as March-NU) relies on a new fault model which extends fault detection to three additional types of coupling faults, i.e. read destructive, deceptive read destructive and incorrect read coupling faults. These faults are related to well known fault mechanisms, that have been reported in the literature, which occur in the read operation of SRAMs. Previous algorithms can not guarantee 100% fault detection of these coupling faults. March-NU sensitizes and detects with 100% coverage all coupling faults as well as traditional faults. A detailed analysis of its fault detection capabilities are presented. March-NU utilizes 8 March elements and its complexity is 30N, where N is the number of words in the WOM under test.
The Average Value for the Probability of an Undetected Error

A new identity for the weight enumerator of a code is derived. The new identity is shown to be related to the average value of the probability of an undetected error when is a continuous random variable.
Combinational logic synthesis for diversity in duplex systems

We describe logic synthesis techniques for designing diverse implementations of combinational logic circuits in order to maximize the data integrity of diverse duplex systems in the presence of common-mode failures. Data integrity means that the system either produces correct outputs or indicates errors when incorrect outputs we produced. Design diversity has long been used to increase the data integrity of duplex systems against common-mode failures. The conventional notion of diversity is qualitative and relies on "independent" generation of "different" implementations. In a recent paper, we presented a metric to quantify, diversity among several designs. Our synthesis techniques described in this paper use the diversity metric as a cost function and maximize diversity while reducing the area overhead of the resulting diverse duplex system.
Vertical Carbon Nanotube Devices With Nanoscale Lengths Controlled Without Lithography

Vertical single-walled carbon nanotubes (v-SWCNTs) are synthesized within highly ordered porous anodic alumina (PAA) templates supported on Si substrates. A process for obtaining thin-film PAA with long-range ordered nanopores is presented in this paper. Each nanopore contains at most one v-SWCNT that is supported by a dielectric and addressed by electrochemically formed Pd nanowire source contacts and evaporated Pd drain contacts. Characteristics of these completely vertical, two-terminal nanotube devices are presented. Control of the v-SWCNT length is demonstrated using a straightforward etching process with lengths of less than 100 nm achieved without the need for complex/expensive lithography. This effective nanoscale length control of highly ordered v-SWCNTs provides a practical basis for the realization of CNT-based nanoelectronics.
A Practical Microgripper By Fine Alignment, Eutectic Bonding And Sma Actuation

A silicon microgripper with a large gripping force, a relatively rigid structural body, and flexibility in functional design is presented. The actuation is generated by Ni-Ti-Cu shape memory alloy (SMA) films and the stress induced can deflect each side of the microgripper up to 55 {mu}m for a total gripping motion of 110 {mu}m. When fully open, the force exerted by the film corresponds to a 40 mN gripping force on the tip of the gripper.
Laparoscopic Versus Open Appendectomy in Complicated Appendicitis. A Review of the NSQIP Database

Background Laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) has been an established treatment method for uncomplicated acute appendicitis. Controversy still exits regarding the superiority of either laparoscopic or open technique for the treatment of complicated appendicitis. Objective To examine for benefits in postoperative morbidity comparing laparoscopic versus open appendectomy for complicated appendicitis. Methods A retrospective analysis was performed using the American College of Surgeon's National Surgical Quality Improvement Project (ACS-NSQIP) dataset between 2005 and 2007. Inclusion criteria were patients undergoing either open or laparoscopic appendectomy, and had complicated appendicitis. Patients with negative appendectomies and age less than 18 y old were excluded. The primary outcome variable was postoperative complications. Multivariate analysis was performed adjusting for demographics and standard NSQIP comorbidities. Results We identified 2,790 complicated appendicitis cases treated with laparoscopic or open appendectomy. The majority were male (56.6%), White (70.3%), and 39.1% were younger than 40 y of age. On unadjusted analyses, the mean length of stay was significantly shorter for LA cases (3.97 d) than OA cases (5.13 d) (P Conclusion In cases of complicated appendicitis, laparoscopic appendectomy is superior in terms of superficial and deep wound infections; however, it is associated with an increased incidence of postoperative intra-abdominal abscess.
Drug-testing practices in US hotels

Abstract As the 1990s continue to unfold, hotel companies in America are faced with a series of human resources problems and challenges. One of the most beguiling questions is that of drug abuse in the work place. This descriptive study investigates the perceptions of Directors of Human Resources of the largest hotels in 48 states on drug use and drug testing. The study discusses arguments in favor and against this practice, deals with questions on prevalence, legality and cost, and compares the results with those obtained from a similar survey conducted on other industries.
Polyimide–polyformal block copolymers

In an effort to combine and tailor the properties of thermoplastic resins we have investigated the synthesis of polyimide–polyformal block copolymers prepared by the condensation reaction of α,ω-diamino functionalized polyformal oligomers with α,ω-dianhydride terminated polyimide oligomers. Amino functionalized polyformal oligomers were synthesized by displacement condensation reactions of various bisphenols with methylene dihalides in the presence of base and aminophenols. Oligomeric aromatic polyformals having weight average molecular weights (MWw) of 7500 to 40,000 were obtained. Anhydride terminated polyimide oligomers with molecular weights (MWw) ranging from 10,000 to 15,000 were obtained by the condensation of bisphenol-A–dianhydride and aromatic amines. Combining the polyimide oligomers with the polyformal oligomers in dipolar aprotic or nonpolar solvents afforded the desired block copolymers. The polyimide–polyformal block copolymers generally display two distinct glass transition temperatures by differential scanning calorimetry. The (AB)n block copolymers were evaluated by TGA in both air and N2 for thermal/oxidative stability.
Color Subtractive–Computer-assisted Image Analysis for Quantification of Cutaneous Nerves in a Diabetic Mouse Model

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a valuable tool for labeling structures in tissue samples. Quantification of immunolabeled structures using traditional approaches has proved to be difficult. Manual counts of IHC-stained structures are inherently biased, require multiple observers, and generate qualitative data. Stereological methods provide accurate quantification but are complex and labor-intensive when staining must be compared among large numbers of samples. In an effort to quickly, objectively, and reproducibly quantify cutaneous innervation in a large number of counterstained tissue sections, we developed a color subtractive–computer-assisted image analysis (CS–CAIA) system. To develop and test the CS–CAIA method, tissue sections of diabetic (db/db) mouse skin and their wild-type (db/–) littermates were stained by IHC for the neural marker PGP 9.5. The brown-red PGP 9.5 peroxidase stain was colorimetrically isolated through a scripted process of color background removal. The remaining stain was thresho...
CCN5 modulates the antiproliferative effect of heparin and regulates cell motility in vascular smooth muscle cells

Vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) hyperplasia plays an important role in both chronic and acute vascular pathologies including atherosclerosis and restenosis. Considerable work has focused on the mechanisms regulating VSMC proliferation and motility. Earlier work in our lab revealed a novel growth arrest-specific (gas) gene induced in VSMC exposed to the antiproliferative agent heparin. This gene is a member of the CCN family and has been given the name CCN5. The objective of the present study is to elucidate the function of CCN5 protein and to explore its mechanism of action in VSMC. Using RNA interference (RNAi), we first demonstrate that CCN5 is required for the antiproliferative effect of heparin in VSMC. We also use this gene knockdown approach to show that CCN5 is an important negative regulator of motility. To explore the mechanism of action of CCN5 on VSMC motility, we use RNAi to demonstrate that knock down of CCN5 up regulates expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), an important stimulator of motility in VSMC. In addition, forced expression of CCN5 via adenovirus results in reduced MMP-2 activity, this also corroborates the gene knock down results. Finally, we show that loss of CCN5 expression in VSMC causes changes in VSMC morphology and cytoskeletal organization, including a reduction in the amount and macromolecular assembly of smooth muscle cell α-actin. This work provides important new insights into the regulation of smooth muscle cell proliferation and motility by CCN5 and may aid the development of therapies for vascular diseases.
PARASITIC HELMINTHS OF RED-BELLIED WOODPECKERS (MELANERPES CAROLINUS) FROM THE APALACHICOLA NATIONAL FOREST IN FLORIDA

Seventy-four red-bellied woodpeckers (Melanerpes carolinus) from the Apalachicola National Forest (308109N, 848409W) in northwest Florida were examined for helminths. The most prevalent parasites were the nematode Aproctella stoddardi (11%) and the acanthocephalan Mediorhynchus centurorum(11%). New host records include Pseudaprocta samueli, A. stoddardi, Tridentocapillaria tridens, Diplotriaena americana, Dispharynx nasuta, Procyrnea pileata, Orthoskrjabinia rostellata, and Bra- chylaima fuscatum. The helminth fauna was characterized by low prevalences and intensities of infection and low numbers of species per bird (1.2). The frequency of prescribed burning and habitat understory flora composition did not influence the prevalences or intensities of helminths in red-bellied woodpeckers collected from 2 similar but differently managed sites within the forest. Red-bellied woodpeckers, Mediorhynchus carolinus(Linnae- us, 1758), range over most of the eastern half of the United States and are common breeding residents in the state of Flor- ida. They live in habitats ranging from river bottomland to open mixed woodlands and urban residential areas. They forage on acorns, seeds, fruit, and insects. Red-bellied woodpeckers usu- ally build nest cavities in dead trees (Stevenson and Anderson, 1994); however, in some areas they nest in cavities excavated by red-cockaded woodpeckers Picoides borealis (Vieillot, 1809) (Jackson, 1977). Little is known about the helminths of the red-bellied wood- pecker in Florida or North America. We were unable to find any published reports of complete parasite examinations. The only reports of parasites come from a few parasite species de- scriptions (Rigney, 1943; Nickol, 1969) and 1 survey for eye- worms (Oxyspirura spp.) in birds from Louisiana (Pence, 1972).
Normal Growth and Puberty

The appearances of the female reproductive tract during infancy, childhood and adolescence are regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. During neonatal life and early infancy the development of the reproductive tract is stimulated by high levels of gonadotropins and oestrogen. During childhood, production of these hormones falls to rise again in late childhood and pubertal years. This chapter describes normal development, anatomy and diagnostic imaging appearances of the female reproductive tract in the context of the changes in hormone production that regulate development. Normal growth and bone maturation including the acquisition of bone mass is also discussed.
Earnings of Real Estate Salespersons with Prior Work Experience

This study examines the relationship between earnings in real estate sales and past employment using a nationwide survey conducted by the National Association of Realtors®. The findings show that p...
Nice nearrings

Nice error bases are a fundamental primitive of quantum information processing. For example, they govern the discretization of errors in quantum error-correcting codes. It is show that the generalized Pauli basis, the most widely used example of nice error bases, has some remarkable structural properties. However, the generalized Pauli basis is limited to dimensions that are a power of a prime, since it is constructed with the help of a finite field. A wider class of nice error bases is introduced that shares many features of the generalized Pauli basis, yet allows one to remove the restriction to prime power dimensions. The nice error bases are indexed by nearrings. Nearrings that support the construction of nice error bases are called nice. It is shown that all finite nearfields are nice. It is shown that a finite ring is nice if and only if it finite Frobenius ring. Several fundamental properties of nice nearrings are established.
Role of Casting Solvent on Nanoparticle Dispersion in Polymer Nanocomposites

We investigate the influence of casting solvent on the final spatial dispersion of nanoparticles (NPs) in polymer nanocomposites (PNCs). We prepared nanocomposites of bare silica NPs and poly(2-vinylpyridine) (P2VP) by casting from two different solvents—methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) and pyridine—which are theta/good solvents, respectively, for both the polymer and the NPs. In MEK, we show that P2VP strongly adsorbs onto the silica surface to create a temporally stable bound polymer layer. The resulting “hairy” particles are sterically stabilized against agglomeration, and thus good NP dispersion in PNCs is always achieved, independent of P2VP molecular weight, concentration, or NP loading. On the contrary, in pyridine, P2VP does not adsorb on the silica NPs. The phase behavior in this case is thus governed by a subtle balance among electrostatic repulsion, polymer-induced depletion attraction, and the kinetic slowdown of diffusion-limited NP aggregation. While there is little remnant solvent in the dry PNC, ...
The relevance of the beautiful and other essays

(1988). The relevance of the beautiful and other essays. History of European Ideas: Vol. 9, No. 6, pp. 751-752.
The Design and Development of the Onboard Systems for the Meridian Unmanned Aircraft

This document describes the design, integration, and development of several of the subsystems for the Meridian Uninhabited Aircraft System (UAS) in support of ongoing Cryospheric research being performed by the Center for Remote Sensing of Ice Sheets (CReSIS). This includes a brief description of the design mission for the Meridian as well as descriptions of the flight control, communication, anti-icing, climate control, landing gear, payload, and power distribution systems that are proposed for the vehicle. The Meridian UAS is designed to support earth observation missions, specifically the measurement of thickness, surface topology, and basal conditions of terrestrial ice sheets in Greenland and Antarctica.
Design and Application of Production Management System of State Grid Corporation of China

Creating a unified,efficient and intensive production management platform is the only way to realize standardization of fundamental production data,flow management of core business,and intelligent production decision making in power grid companies.In the period of "Eleventh Five-year Plan",following the principle of "Four Unification",State Grid Corporation of China carried out the design of unified power grid device model,dynamic flow configuration,and graphic lay out,based on the open fundamental application platform.Two-grade deployment and three-level application of production management are realized in the whole grid.The system guarantees standard,intensive and lean production management in the company.
Research on Task Queued and Assigned for Networked Collaborative Technical Service Based on Cloud Computing

On the basis of analysed the modern manufacturing mode and technical service under the cloud computing conditions,the networked cooperative technical service mode based on cloud computing was presented for manufacturing enterprise to fast response the market demand as a new method.firstly,ontology-based semantic identification technology has been studied,then the basic concept of ontology and created principles and method of ontology were expounded,and the algorithm of semantic identification for technical service information in production process was described.Secondly,made use of fuzzy analytic hierarchy process and the Hungarian algorithm,the queue and assignment of the technical services task in production process were researched respectively.Finally,the prototype system of networked technical service oriented product process was carried out to verify the correctness and feasibility of the researched techniques.
Toxicities related to intraarterial infusion of cisplatin and etoposide in patients with brain tumors.

Chemotherapy for malignant brain tumors has a limited efficacy largely due to restricted blood–brain barrier permeability for chemotherapeutic drugs. Intraarterial chemotherapy (IAC) has the advantage of increased uptake during the first passage of the drugs through tumor capillaries. Initial IAC trials had less than satisfactory results due to unacceptable toxicities. Between 1987 and 1996, 173 patients with primary and metastatic brain tumors were treated with intraarterial (intracarotid and/or intravertebral) cisplatin and etoposide (VP-16). Out of these, 168 patients, who received a total of 438 cycles, were evaluated for the incidence of toxicities. Patients received either cisplatin at 40 mg/m2 and VP-16 at 20 mg/m2 or cisplatin at 60 mg/m2 and VP-16 at 40 mg/m2. Nausea and vomiting were the most common toxicities (42 patients, 14% of cycles). Arterial puncture was associated with a 1.6% incidence of groin hematomas (6 patients), and a 0.7% incidence of failure to canulate the carotid or vertebral arteries (3 patients). Neurologic toxicities included headache (1.4% of cycles, 5 patients), focal seizures (1.4% of cycles, 5 patients), transient confusion and urinary retention/incontinence (1.9% of cycles, 8 patients), and blurred vision (0.9% of cycles, 4 patients). We have not seen visual loss, strokes, major vessel dissection or thrombosis, or myelosuppression. Toxicity incidence was higher in patients with metastatic brain tumors than in those with primary brain tumors (34% versus 17%, p<0.001). It was also higher in patients who had brain radiation therapy (RT) prior to IAC than in those who had RT concomitant with IAC (31% versus 19%, p=0.05). No significant difference in toxicity incidence was noticed between patients who received RT concomitant with IAC and those who received RT after IAC (19% and 23% respectively, p=0.08). Intracarotid chemotherapy given prior to RT resulted in 23 months of median survival for patients with glioblastoma multiforme. Intraarterial chemotherapy with cisplatin and VP-16 is a relatively safe treatment modality, especially in patients with primary brain tumors who have not received brain radiotherapy.
Teaching NeuroImages: Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome resulting in hydrocephalus.

A woman with prior lung transplantation presented with headaches, seizure, and obtundation. Head MRI (figure) revealed obstructive hydrocephalus and hyperintensity on T2-weighted imaging in the bilateral thalami and brainstem. Management included antiepileptic medications, ventriculostomy placement, and cessation of tacrolimus for concern of atypical posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES). Infectious and paraneoplastic etiologies were ruled out. An autoimmune process was unlikely due to immunosuppression. There was rapid clinical improvement with repeat MRI revealing resolution of hydrocephalus and T2 changes. Hydrocephalus is a rare but devastating complication, which should be considered in posterior fossa dominant PRES.1,2 Early recognition is critical to ensuring recovery.
Feeling Like a Movement: Visual Cultures of Educational Resistance

Who wasn’t glued to the 2012 Chicago teacher’s strike? We, two university-based educators in the city were riveted by it, and we were not alone. From The Guardian and Al Jazeera America , to the Chicago Tribune and blogs representing a wide political spectrum, the whole world seemed to watch as thousands of red t-shirted teachers, and their innumerable allies including, young people, parents, and other union members, sang, chanted, and marched in the streaming autumnal sunshine throughout the nine day strike. This Chicago’s teachers strike made full use of digital technologies and social media; teachers and supporters rallied themselves and each other with a steady stream of catalyzing images: well-designed posters, tweets, funny and snarky hand-made signs, powerful photographs of seas of red-shirted protesters flooding downtown streets. Pictures of children and young people standing up for their teachers, parents rallying to prevent school closures, and bored and dismissive school board members and politicians worked to educate, entertain, and mobilize supporters. The images, art and artifacts—memes conveying ideas—produced by teachers and their accomplices mobilized people because they made them feel .