cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ethical Imperatives of Work/Life Balance

Changes in values, demographics, and technology have focused attention on work/life balance as an important indicator of employees’ quality of life. This chapter reviews research on work/life balance and organizational work/life benefits and policies designed to ameliorate the negative effects of work/life conflict and support individuals in trying to achieve a balance among the multiple roles in their lives. Individuals and organizations share the responsibility for helping employees achieve a work/life balance. Although a wide variety of work/life benefits and policies are offered, they are only used by a minority of employees for a variety of reasons. In addition, empirical support for the effectiveness of work/life programs is mixed for a variety of reasons. This chapter articulates multilevel ethical dilemmas that individuals and organizations may face, and how job design, organizational communication, and organizational development initiatives may provide some solutions to foster a better work/life balance for employees.
The ineffable: A framework for the study of methods through the case of mid-century mind-brain sciences:

Conventionally, the story of modern research methods has been told as the gradual ascendancy of practices that scientists designed to extract evidence out of minds and bodies. These methods, which ...
Development of an Experimental Routine for Electrochemical and Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy Composition Measurements of SmCl3 in LiCl-KCl Eutectic Salt Systems

Four different concentrations of SmCl3 in LiCl-KCl were tested using cyclic voltammetry to determine the diffusion coefficients of Sm(III) and Sm(II) found to be 8.59 × 10−6 ± 1.67 × 10−6 and 8.01 ...
How a Donor Nephrectomy Population Can Help Give Perspective to the Effects of Renal Parenchymal Preservation During Partial Nephrectomy.

Abstract Introduction: Volume of renal parenchymal loss is known to affect postoperative renal function after partial nephrectomy (PN). We utilize a novel comparison using donor nephrectomy (DN) pa...
The Drosophila metallopeptidase superdeath decouples apoptosis from the activation of the ER stress response

ABSTRACT Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-induced apoptosis is a primary cause and modifier of degeneration in a number of genetic disorders. Understanding how genetic variation between individuals influences the ER stress response and subsequent activation of apoptosis could improve individualized therapies and predictions of outcomes for patients. In this study, we find that the uncharacterized, membrane-bound metallopeptidase CG14516 in Drosophila melanogaster, which we rename as SUPpressor of ER stress-induced DEATH (superdeath), plays a role in modifying ER stress-induced apoptosis. We demonstrate that loss of superdeath reduces apoptosis and degeneration in the Rh1G69D model of ER stress through the JNK signaling cascade. This effect on apoptosis occurs without altering the activation of the unfolded protein response (IRE1 and PERK), suggesting that the beneficial pro-survival effects of this response are intact. Furthermore, we show that superdeath functions epistatically upstream of CDK5, a known JNK-activated pro-apoptotic factor in this model of ER stress. We demonstrate that superdeath is not only a modifier of this particular model, but functions as a general modifier of ER stress-induced apoptosis across different tissues and ER stresses. Finally, we present evidence of Superdeath localization to the endoplasmic reticulum membrane. While similar in sequence to a number of human metallopeptidases found in the plasma membrane and ER membrane, its localization suggests that superdeath is orthologous to ERAP1/2 in humans. Together, this study provides evidence that superdeath is a link between stress in the ER and activation of cytosolic apoptotic pathways. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Genetic diseases display a great deal of variability in presentation, progression, and overall outcomes. Much of this variability is caused by differences in genetic background among patients. One process that commonly modifies degenerative disease is the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response. Understanding the genetic sources of variation in the ER stress response could improve individual diagnosis and treatment decisions. In this study, we characterized one such modifier in Drosophila melanogaster, the membrane-bound metallopeptidase CG14516 (superdeath). Loss of this enzyme suppresses a model of ER stress-induced degeneration by reducing cell death without altering the beneficial activation of the unfolded protein response. Our findings make superdeath and its orthologues attractive therapeutic targets in degenerative disease.
Measuring the Transition Readiness of Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes Using the Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire.

IN BRIEF This study aimed to assess readiness to transition from pediatric to adult health care in adolescents with type 1 diabetes using the Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire (TRAQ). TRAQ is a non–disease-specific self-report measure that assesses self-management and advocacy skills of youth with special health care needs. This study provides guidance on assessing transition readiness scores of adolescents with diabetes and identifying when health care providers should intervene.
Overcoming environmental scarcity, inequality and structural imbalance in the world economy

The world economy faces two major threats: increasing environmental degradation and a growing gap between rich and poor. The root cause is that natural resources—or natural capital—is underpriced, ...
Reasons for Transition From Electronic Cigarette Use to Cigarette Smoking Among Young Adult College Students

Abstract Purpose Longitudinal studies indicate that e-cigarette use among youth and young adults is associated with cigarette smoking initiation. The purpose of this study was to identify reasons why nonsmoking young adults transition from e-cigarette use to cigarette smoking. Methods The study used concept mapping (CM), a mixed-method participatory approach. Fifty-five college students who endorsed initiation of e-cigarettes before cigarettes (lifetime e-cigarette uses ≥ 100 and ≥ 100 cigarettes in lifetime) completed at least one part of the study. In an online program, participants brainstormed (n = 54) statements describing reasons for transition from e-cigarette use to cigarette smoking, sorted statements (n = 46) into conceptually similar categories, and rated (n = 47) how true each statement was for them. Results Participants generated 60 unique statements, and multidimensional scaling analysis generated eight thematic clusters characterizing reasons for transition which included the following: “Sharing with Others,” “Psychological Coping,” “Cigarette Appeal,” “Reinforcing Effects of Cigarettes,” “Accessibility,” “Social Influence,” “Vaping Stigma,” and “Vaping Deficiencies.” Participants rated “Sharing with Others” and “Psychological Coping” highest (most true) and “Vaping Deficiencies” lowest (least true). For college students, the ability to share cigarettes with peers and access cigarettes from peers and smoking for stress/anxiety management were among the top reasons for transition. Conclusions Results suggest that tailored prevention efforts aimed at reducing cigarette smoking uptake among college students who use tobacco as a means for psychological coping or social facilitation may be warranted. Furthermore, regulatory decisions aimed at limiting cigarette appeal, reinforcing effects, and accessibility may be relevant to reducing transition.
Teacher Attitudes toward Alternative Professional Development in Geography

As some teachers cannot participate in face-to-face workshops because of various constraints, a geography PD opportunity was offered in a variety of alternative formats, face-to-face, online, and h...
System Culture Change Decreases CAUTI

Background Across the healthcare system, catheter associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) rates were escalating and the organization was not meeting goals. Facility assessments revealed; indwelling catheter placement without medical necessity, lack of alternative device use, broken sterile technique during insertion, improper maintenance, and unnecessary catheter longevity. Improvements in standardization of products, insertion techniques, and the development of nurse driven standing orders for removal were needed to eradicate system wide CAUTI. Methods A steering committee was formed and lead by a Chief Nursing Officer and Clinical Practice Specialists. A multidisciplinary team was developed consisting of fourteen facility leads, Clinical Nurse Educators, bedside nurses, Infection Prevention, Quality Improvement, data analysists, and sourcing representatives. Following in-depth review of CAUTI cases and analysis of the data, several evidence based practice CAUTI reduction strategies were implemented including, product standardization, focused education/validation, indwelling urinary catheter care teams (UCCT), buddy system, standardization of process including utilization of necessity forms, placement checklists, audit tools, and data collection. Results The nurse driven system CAUTI eradication plan has been successful. The incidence of CAUTI has decreased 27.8% from 2015-2019 with the initiation of an evidence based plan. Routine placement of indwelling urinary catheters has declined. Alternative device use has increased. Sterile technique during insertion has improved with the use of validated catheter teams and the implementation of the buddy system. Product Life Cycle Assessments conducted in 2017 and 2019 have demonstrated improvements related to indwelling catheter use and care. While the goal of eradication has not yet been achieved, the system has decreased CAUTIs drastically and continues to assess for areas for improvement. Conclusions Eradication of CAUTI aligns with the mission, vision and values of the organization. A system wide culture change based on evidence based practice, led by nursing leadership and all levels of nursing, has decreased CAUTIs in a large healthcare system.
The Fact of the Matter

The transition from teaching predictive legal writing in the fall semester to teaching persuasive legal writing in the spring semester can be tricky for students. In particular, the framing of facts is a skill that students are tentative to experiment with when they begin persuasive writing. This exercise affords students the opportunity to experiment with fact framing in a familiar context (films), observe fact framing in published opinions, and then apply that skill to framing facts for their writing assignments.
How to be an antiracist teacher educator in the United States: A sketch of a Black male pedagogic provocateur

Abstract In the United States, scholarship on antiracist teaching in teacher education abounds. Extant research irradiates how antiracist pedagogues practice antiracist teaching and how students respond. The link between antiracist pedagogues’ teaching and lived experiences, particularly with anti-Black racism, is under-scrutinized. This article theorizes antiracist teaching through the experiential knowledge of a Black male teacher educator. It sketches his theorizing of antiracist teaching, illustrating how that theorizing—which is anchored to his lived experiences with anti-Black racism—shapes his provocative pedagogic posture. Implications for antiracist teaching practice and research are discussed.
Enhanced stability of Fe-modified CuO-ZnO-ZrO2-Al2O3/HZSM-5 bifunctional catalysts for dimethyl ether synthesis from CO2 hydrogenation

Abstract A series of iron (Fe) modified CuO-ZnO-ZrO2-Al2O3 (CZZA) catalysts, with various Fe loadings, were prepared using a co-precipitation method. A bifunctional catalyst, consisting of Fe-modified CZZA and HZSM-5, was studied for dimethyl ether (DME) synthesis via CO2 hydrogenation. The effects of Fe loading, reaction temperature, reaction pressure, space velocity, and concentrations of precursor for the synthesis of the Fe-modified CZZA catalyst on the catalytic activity of DME synthesis were investigated. Long-term stability tests showed that Fe modification of the CZZA catalyst improved the catalyst stability for DME synthesis via CO2 hydrogenation. The activity loss, in terms of DME yield, was significantly reduced from 4.2% to 1.4% in a 100 h run of reaction, when the Fe loading amount was 0.5 (molar ratio of Fe to Cu). An analysis of hydrogen temperature programmed reduction revealed that the introduction of Fe improved the reducibility of the catalysts, due to assisted adsorption of H2 on iron oxide. The good stability of Fe-modified CZZA catalysts in the DME formation was most likely attributed to oxygen spillover that was introduced by the addition of iron oxide. This could have inhibited the oxidation of the Cu surface and enhanced the thermal stability of copper during long-term reactions.
#MeToo and the Process That's Due: Sexual Misconduct Where We Live, Work, and Learn

The #MeToo movement has been instrumental in bringing attention to the pervasiveness of sexual harassment and sexual assault (collectively, sexual misconduct ) in all walks of life and in all environments, including at work, school, home, and out in public. But the movement has also brought with it a great deal of confusion about how we define sexual misconduct and whether and when legal liability attaches. Part of that confusion can be blamed on the fact that at least three discrete areas of law can possibly apply to sexual misconduct—criminal law, Title VII (when the sexual misconduct takes place in the workplace), and Title IX (when the sexual misconduct takes place in schools and universities). Adding to that confusion is that there are several inconsistencies between how these three areas of the law address issues surrounding sexual misconduct. The most prominent of these inconsistencies is the varied due process protections that apply, depending on where the sexual misconduct takes place. This article will discuss these inconsistencies, and will address the issue of whether these differences can be justified. In the end, this article concludes that the increased due process protection for Title IX cases (compared to Title VII cases) cannot be justified. Thus, it proposes a compromise response to answer the question—how much process is due?
MMPI-3 Predictors of Anxiety Sensitivity and Distress Intolerance.

Documenting empirical correlates of the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory–3 (MMPI-3) scale scores is important for expanding the clinical utility of the instrument. To this end, the goals...
A Review of Post-Prognostics Decision-Making in Prognostics and Health Management

Mainly, the prognostics and health management (PHM) process is based on three processes: the data acquisition and health assessment process in which sensors signals are acquired and processed, the diagnostic and prognostic process in which the source of failure is detected and the remaining useful life (RUL) is predicted and finally the decision- making process that refers to the term management in prognostics and health management. This paper reviews in the literature about the different aspects of decision-making in the context of PHM. The selected papers are subject to con- tent assessment and grouped according to the decision type. Additionally, this paper presents a synthesis of the previous works that helps identify new trends and deficiencies in the decision-making process. The synthesis can guide efforts for future work.
Sustainable glycerol carbonate electrolytes for Li-ion supercapacitors: performance evaluation of butyl, benzyl, and ethyl glycerol carbonates

Substitution of flammable, toxic solvents in electrolytes with alternative green options is of significant commercial and environmental interest. Here, we report the synthesis and physicochemical properties of glycerol carbonate (GlyC) based solvents as electrochemically stable electrolytes for lithium ion supercapacitors. Glycerol carbonates with pendent butyl, benzyl, and ethyl side chains are all thermally stable and exhibit compositional dependent properties. Of the three glycerol-based electrolytes, the butyl and ethyl GlyC analogs exhibit the highest conductivity and discharge capacitance at room and elevated temperatures. The new electrolytes allow for safe operation of a Li-ion supercapacitor at room temperature and 100 °C, with specific capacitances between 115 and 162 F g−1, and good electrochemical performance at 100 °C.
Person-Centered Pluralism for Contract Theory

Autonomy-based theories of contract theory have moved beyond the narrowly dutiful. Welfare-centered theorists have increasingly responded to criticisms by drawing moral concerns into their analysis. Refinements to virtue-based accounts of contract law bring the values of autonomy and welfare together but even the best hovers above the person whose virtues are considered. These developments collectively demonstrate a movement toward pluralism in contact theory. In short, the inadequacy of any single approach to contract theory is apparent. Scholars working from within each approach now seek to refine their theories in light of other perspectives. Yet this increasing openness to multiple perspectives has omitted sustained consideration of the center of contracts: the human person. This article draws on the work of sociologist Christian Smith and others as resources by which the movement toward pluralism can be enhanced and grounded in a deep consideration of the capacities of the human person—thus, a person-centered approach. Because Smith is a sociologist, I also draw on the work of Andrew Gold to help bridge the gap between the capacities of person and state-sanctioned legal remedies. Finally, in an extended conclusion, I demonstrate how a person-centered pluralism can ground an approach to what Margaret Radin calls the “normative degradation” of aspects of boilerplate in a principled way.
Prevention and Screening

The question of prevention and screening differs from treatment of disease in its greater impact on society. Prevention and early detection of serious illness has major human and financial implications. Motivated in part by observation of widespread lack of social concern during the recent COVID-19 pandemic, I argue that states have broad power to compel screening and preventive measures. Using vaccination as an example, I describe four paradigmatic cases. In one case, the disease (tetanus) is grave, but not communicable or common. In the second (common cold), it is common and communicable but not serious. The third type of disease (polio) is grave and highly communicable. In the fourth case, the state seeks to vaccinate people not at high risk of serious illness to prevent serious disease in another subpopulation. I maintain that the third and fourth sorts of cases warrant compulsory vaccination of children over parents’ wishes. I also argue that compulsory screening is acceptable if the screening procedure itself does not violate the Direct Effects Basis—i.e., is unlikely to cause serious harm. Finally, I explore, without definitive conclusions, the question of children living in environments in which they are taught unhealthy practices.
Issues to be Confronted

Society must confront many issues when implementing effective watershed management practices, projects, and programs to attain better land stewardship in the future. Global issues and issues in the United States are considered in this chapter to place the perspectives, problems, and programs presented in the preceding chapter into a context to appreciate the contributions of watershed management to land stewardship. Many of these issues concern the status and future of the watershed management planning process. This process is complex because of the physical, biological, and social interactions that are the foundation of watershed management (Brooks et al., 1992, 1994, 1997; Thorud et al., 2000). However, people have a responsibility to act together in society to conserve natural resources and, when necessary, preserve their integrity for future generations. The outcome of this participatory effort is the sustainable use of natural resources through watershed management.
Load Balancing and Data Locality Via Fractiling: An Experimental Study

In order to fully exploit the power of a parallel computer, an application must be distributed onto processors so that, as much as possible, each has an equal-sized, independent portion of the work. There is a tension between balancing processor loads and maximizing locality, as the dynamic re-assignment of work necessitates access to remote data. Fractiling is a dynamic scheduling scheme that simultaneously balances processor loads and maintains locality by exploiting the self-similarity properties of fractals.
Statistical signal processing for gene microarrays

Over the past decade there has been an explosion in the amount of genomic data available to biomedical researchers due to advances in biotechnology. For example, using gene microarray technology, it is now possible to probe a person's gene expression profile over the more than 30,000 genes of the draft human genome. Signals extracted from gene microarray experiments can be linked to genetic factors underlying disease development and aging in a population. This has greatly accelerated the pace of gene discovery. However, the massive scale and experimental variability of genomic data makes extraction and analysis of useful genetic information very challenging. We will give an overview of some of these challenges and discuss some of our work in developing signal processing tools to meet them. Full paper was not available at the time of printing.
Focus on . . . The Pension Protection Act and the PBGC

This article discusses the status of the PBGC insurance program, focusing on single employer defined benefit plans. Discussion topics include flaws in the Title IV insurance system, questions about whether the PBGC program really constitutes insurance, PBGC's financial status, recent legislative changes, and the outlook for the PBGC insurance program.
A Review of “Thinking Outside the Book: Essays for Innovative Librarians”

Refreshingly free from heavy technology and academic jargon, Thinking Outside the Book: Essays for Innovative Librarians delivers a wide range of easy-to-read and useful essays written by library a...
BIOFILTRATION OF VOLATILE POLLUTANTS: Fundamental Mechanisms for Improved Design, Long-term Operation, Prediction, and Implementation

Biofiltration systems can be used for treatment of volatile organic compounds (VOCs); however, the systems are poorly understood and are currently operated as ''black boxes''. Common operational problems associated with biofilters include fouling, deactivation, and overgrowth, all of which make them ineffective for continuous, long-term use. The objective of this investigation is to develop generic methods for long-term stable operation, in particular by using selective limitation of supplemental nutrients while maintaining high activity. As part of this effort, we will provide deeper fundamental understanding of the important biological and transport mechanisms in biodestruction of sparingly soluble VOCs and extend this approach and mathematical models to additional systems of high priority EM relevance--direct degradation and cometabolic degradation of priority pollutants such as BTEX and chlorinated organics.
Laboratory predictors of acute dialysis in hemolytic uremic syndrome.

Background Strict guidelines on use of dialysis in children with post-diarrheal hemolytic uremic syndrome (D + HUS) are lacking. This study investigated laboratory predictors of acute dialysis because they are more objective than clinical features. Added to this, given that urine output is also an objective parameter, its ability to predict dialysis requirements was also investigated. Methods Out of 153 D + HUS children reviewed, 88 received dialysis and 65 did not. Initial laboratory parameters and diuresis between both groups were analyzed. Results Dialyzed patients had higher creatinine, urea, alanine aminotransferase, hematocrit and leukocyte count; and lower sodium, bicarbonate, and pH compared to non-dialyzed ones. Serum creatinine was the only independent predictor (P = 0.003) of dialysis; therefore, its ability to predict dialysis was estimated on receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and using the Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN) staging system. Area under the ROC curve was 0.92 (95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 0.83–1) with a creatinine cut-off of 1.25 mg/dL (sensitivity, 100%; specificity, 76.5%) for children <1 year, and 0.93 (95%CI: 0.88–0.98) with a threshold of 2 mg/dL (sensitivity, 91%; specificity, 87.5%) for older children. AKIN stage 3 at admission predicted dialysis with a sensitivity of 92% and specificity of 84.2%. Urine output had the highest accuracy for dialysis prediction (sensitivity, 100%; specificity, 95.3%). Conclusions Initial serum creatinine concentration was the best laboratory predictor of dialysis, but the first 24 h diuresis was even better for this purpose. But, given that serum creatinine is an immediate available parameter, the cut-offs identified may label D + HUS children who will probably need dialysis, prompting early referral to centers able to provide dialysis.
Sustained dyskinesias following elective cessation and reactivation of chronic subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation for a surgical procedure.

Objectives: Subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (STN DBS) is effective for treatment of levodopa-induced dyskinesias in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). Medical or surgical procedures requiring electrocautery may require inactivation of the pulse generators to avoid damage to the lead or extension wire or possible reprogramming of the stimulators. This generally causes only mild and temporary disability. We report a patient with previously well-controlled dyskinesias who had severe and prolonged dyskinesias following reactivation of deep brain stimulation (DBS) following an orthopedic procedure. Materials and Methods: Retrospective chart review. Results: The patient underwent two orthopedic procedures, each requiring inactivation of DBS. After reactivation of DBS, the patient experienced severe dyskinesias that ultimately required sedation and ventilation to control large-amplitude dyskinesias. Conclusions: Clinicians caring for PD patients treated with STN DBS should be aware of the possible reappearance of severe dyskinesias arising from routine inactivation and reactivation of pulse generators for medical or surgical procedures.
Cytokine Therapy After Bone Marrow Transplantation

Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) have an important yet controversial role in the care of patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation (BMT). Numerous studies have documented acceleration of neutrophil recovery by the agents. Because of the differences and lack of published clinical outcomes and of direct comparisons of the two CSFs, coupled with limited data from phase III trials, it is difficult to draw conclusions from the literature on the use of the agents after BMT. Issues that must be critically evaluated are toxicity profile, dose, initiation and duration of administration, route of administration, and cost.
Cyanide degradion by an enzyme from Stemphylium loti

Abstract Stemphylium loti develops a tolerance for hydrogen cyanide when incubated in a medium containing cyanide. Tolerance apparently involves an ability of the fungus to alter cyanide. Tolerant fungal spores or enzyme preparations from these spores convert hydrogen cyanide to formamide. Formamide is the only product of the reaction. The enzyme has optimal activity at pH 7–9. This apparently is the first report to establish the occurrence of an enzyme catalyzing this reaction; consequently, the enzyme is named formamide hydro-lyase.
Hemoglobin Alc values decrease with advancing gestation despite the same level of glycemic control in diabetic pregnancies

Abstract Objective: To test the hypothesis that hemoglobin A1c values are poorly predictive of glycemic controls in pregestational diabetic patients during the latter half of pregnancy. Methods: In an ongoing study, a cohort of 21 pregestational diabetic patients (class B-R) had serial hemoglobin Alc values documented after conception. Mean fasting blood glucose values from the same patients were obtained from the 4–6 weeks preceding each hemoglobin Alc value. All patients were on a multiinjection insulin regimen adjusted weekly. Data points were plotted against gestational age, and best-fitting regression lines were created. Slopes were compared using analysis of variance. Results: The slopes of the hemoglobin Alc and mean fasting blood glucose regression lines were –2.83 and –0.076, respectively. A statistically significant difference between these two calculated values was appreciated with a P value of less than 0.001. Conclusions: For this cohort of pregnant diabetic patients, hemoglobin A1c values fell with advancing gestational age despite relatively unchanged blood glucose levels over the same time period. Hemoglobin Alc values obtained late in pregnancy seem to be a poor indicator of maternal glycemic control and therefore are of little help in diabetic management.
Measurement of IgG blocking antibody in human serum: comparison of ELISA with monoclonal antibody and fluorogenic substrate and Staphylococcus protein A solid-phase RIA.

Abstract We compared ELISA with mouse monoclonal antihuman γ-chain antibody and a fluorogenic substrate with the Staphylococcus protein A solid-phase radioimmunoassay (SPRIA) in the measurement of specific IgG antibody to short ragweed pollen. Sera from 51 ragweed-allergic patients undergoing allergen immunotherapy were evaluated for ragweed-specific IgG antibodies with the same ragweed extract in the two assay systems. With optimal conditions, the ELISA and SPRIA displayed comparable positive thresholds (~1 ng/ml of ragweed-specific IgG). Both assays also demonstrated consistently parallel dilution curves with 51 sera (mean interdilutional coefficient of variation [CV] p 80%) sera. Occasionally, discrepant results would not be expected to be of clinical significance. Performance specifications for the ragweed IgC ELISA were acceptable, and the technical ease of ELISA is superior to the labor-intensive SPRIA. For routine clinical use, the ragweed ELISA is a suitable alternative to SPRIA.
The time course of seawater acclimation in Fundulus heteroclitus L.

Serum Na+ and osmolality increased significantly within 12–24 hours after transfer of Fundulus heteroclitus to seawater (SW) but returned to freshwater (FW) levels after 4 days in SW. Na+K+-adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) remained low during the first 2 days in SW but increased to a level characteristic of fully acclimated fish within 4 days. Serum cortisol did not display a marked elevation during the rise in Na+K+-ATPase. Thus, the pattern of SW-acclimation in F. heteroclitus is similar to that of the eel (Anguilla rostrata), but acclimation is accomplished somewhat more rapidly in F. heteroclitus and the prolonged period of elevated serum cortisol observed in the eel does not occur. A distinct peak in cortisol was observed during acclimation to FW when gill Na+K+-ATPase and serum osmolality were declining. This indicates that elevated serum cortisol does not always lead to an increase in Na+K+-ATPase activity.
Search for new physics via single-top production at the LHC

Abstract We consider single-top production as a probe for new physics effects at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). We argue that for natural theories a small deviation from the Standard Model tree-level couplings in this reaction can be parameterized by 3 higher dimension operators. Precision measurement of these effective couplings in the single-top events, via studying their interference effects with the SM contributions, can discriminate several new physics models. In particular, combining the production rate of three single-top production modes will provide a severe test of the Little Higgs model with T-parity. We find that at the LHC, a 5% accuracy in the measurement of the single-top cross sections would probe the new physics scale up to about 3 TeV.
SOCIOLOGICAL FACTORS RELATED TO DISCREPANT ACHIEVEMENT OF WHITE AND BLACK FIRST GRADERS

Using the chi square test of independence, four types of achievement were studied for their association with socioeconomic status, family size, and ordinal position of white and black first graders. Findings revealed no significant associations in areas of word knowledge, word discrimination, and reading achievement. One significant result was obtained for ordinal position in the area of arithmetic achievement. Achievement was also analyzed in relation to race and sex.
Focus group methodology for patients, parents, and siblings

This report describes methodology that can be used as a guideline for the planning, conduct, analysis, and interpretation of data from focus groups for parents/caregivers, siblings, and children diagnosed with an illness; the methodology provides tools for the conduct of such groups in the same or similar populations. Separate focus group sessions were conducted for parents/guardians, siblings, and affected children. Methodological enhancements in planning and conducting the focus group sessions include development of a sampling frame to derive a representative group of participants, standardization of procedures through the use of a moderator's training manual tailored to each group, identification of topics to broaden content areas and stimulate discussion, and creation of a comfortable environment in which participants could express issues. Statistical considerations regarding design and conduct of the focus group session, as well as acquisition, analysis, and interpretation of data are presented with regard to validity, reliability, and generalizability of information gathered from focus group interviews. Scripts, topics, and timeframes that were initially devised by content experts were validated further and revised for direct use or adaptation by clinicians in the conduct of focus group sessions for parents/guardians, siblings, and affected children. Application of this methodology is intended to promote generalizability, reliability, and validity of information obtained, and to enable health care practitioners to provide better care to young patients and their families.
Interference Mitigation for Multistatic Active Sonar

Two methods for detecting and classifying mutual interference between sources in multistatic active sonar systems are developed and compared for frequency-modulated transmissions. Both methods compare the output of matched-filtered time-series data using two different waveform replicas: the intended transmit replica and a hypothesized interferer replica. The first method compares the absolute magnitudes of the two outputs, whereas the second method compares the local shape of the magnitude of the outputs to idealized replica correlations using an ${L}_{5}$ -norm. Simulated examples indicate that the two methods are both effective, but with different tradeoffs. The magnitude-based method often performs better when the interference is relatively strong, and the shape-based method often performs better when the interference is weaker, and thereby harder to detect. It is also shown that excising the detected interfering direct blast at the beamformer output level effectively reduces clutter on displays and removes false contacts due to the interferer. The approach also shows potential for improving multistatic detection across platforms.
Topological features of the nonlinear sigma model with Hopf term using chiral lagrangians

Abstract We rewrite the O(3) nonlinear sigma model in 2 + 1 dimensions in terms of SU(2) matrices, thereby solving the constraint. The lagrangian has the symmetry SU(2)Global×U(1)Local. Static soliton solutions to this lagrangian have energy 4πN as usual. We then show that the Hopf instantons, in the formalism of principle chiral fields, are just the skymions of QCD in 3 + 1 dimensions.
Heat Transfer Effects During Cold Dense Gas Dispersion: Wind-Tunnel Simulation of Cold Gas Spills

Etude en soufflerie a la pression atmospherique des distributions de concentration des champs de temperature dans des panaches provoquees par la vaporisation de freon, d'azote liquide, de carbone dioxyde liquide et de GNL
129Xe NMR spectroscopy in microporous solids: the effect of bulk properties

Abstract In this contribution we point out a number of factors related to the bulk properties of microporous solids which must be taken into account in order first of all to obtain meaningful 129 Xe NMR spectral data, secondly to interpret the data property. This sensitivity to bulk properties is especially important for microporous solids where there is little or no barrier to xenon passage from inside the particle to the interparticle space. We examine the effect of particle size, powder bulk density and particle anisotropy, and also the effect of low thermal conductivity of low density powders.
The Radiographic Features of Meningiomas in Childhood and Adolescence

Meningiomas, although rare in the first two decades of life, must be considered in the differential diagnosis of intracranial neoplasms in this age group. Their radiographic appearance in children is sufficiently characteristic to suggest the diagnosis. Although their appearance differs little from that of adult meningiomas, childhood meningiomas are characterized by an increased frequency of calcification and higher incidence of location in the posterior fossa and within the ventricles.
Electrocapillary Curves of Ephedrine and Pseudoephedrine

Electrocapillary curves at a series of concentrations of the diastereoisomeric ephedrines in 1 N NaOH and of the corresponding salts in 1 N HCl have been determined. The electrocapillary maximum (e.c.m.) was shifted to more positive potentials with an increase in concentration in each instance. Adsorption of the free bases on mercury was greater than that of the cations. The fractional surface coverage of the electrode by the cations was found to be highly dependent upon potential, with maximum coverage occurring at potentials slightly more negative than the e.c.m. Coverage by the free bases was largely independent of potential over a wide range of potentials. The Gibbs surface excess of the isomeric ephedrinium ions was the same from 0.001 M to 0.2 M . At low coverage for a given reduced concentration, the surface excess of (−)-ephedrine was greater than that of (+)-ψ-ephedrine; whereas at high coverage, the surface excess of the diastereoisomers was the same. These results imply that at high surface coverage, orientation of both isomers at the electrode is the same with planar adsorption of the aromatic nucleus on the electrode surface and the side chain in solution; at low surface coverage, the molecules lie flat on the electrode surface. The extra electrostatic work for bringing (+)-ψ-ephedrine to the surface, compared with (−)-ephedrine, was interpreted in terms of the conformations of the diastereoisomers in the bulk of the solution and at the surface. Polarograms exhibited no discrete catalytic hydrogen wave; however, the limiting currents at potentials preceding discharge appeared to be catalytic currents. The catalytic current of (−)-ephedrine was greater than that of (+)-ψ-ephedrine in borate buffers. A linear dependence of catalytic current on the concentration of each isomer was observed over a narrow concentration range.
Determination of the effective zero-point and the extraction of spherical nanoindentation stress–strain curves

Abstract In this paper, we present a novel approach to converting the load–displacement data measured in spherical nanoindentation into indentation stress–strain curves. This new method entails a new definition of the indentation strain, a new procedure for establishing the effective zero-load and zero-displacement point in the raw dataset, and the use of the continuous stiffness measurement (CSM) data. The concepts presented in this paper have been validated by finite element models as well as by the analysis of experimental measurements obtained on aluminum and tungsten samples. It is demonstrated that the new method presented in this paper produces indentation stress–strain curves that accurately capture the loading and unloading elastic moduli, the indentation yield points and the post-yield characteristics in the tested samples.
Modeling Simulation and Design of Dissipative Dispersive Uniform and Nonuniform Multiconductor Interconnects

Computer aided design compatible numerical and circuit modeling techniques for the simulation of general dispersive dissipative interconnects terminated in general nonlinear loads are presented. Starting from the physical layout of multiconductor layered interconnects associated with various packages, the procedure for the evaluation of the frequency dependent equivalent distributed self and mutual line constant matrices R, L, G, C, characterizing the structures is presented. CAD techniques for the simulation of these nonlinear multiports based on the SPICE circuit model, Laplace transforms of frequency domain network functions as well as recently developed generalized method of characteristics are discussed. Several examples of layered multiconductor structures terminated in typical logic elements are included to demonstrate the delay, distortion and corss talk associated with singly and multiply excited multiports.
Swelling and protein absorption/desorption of thermo-sensitive lactitol- based polyether polyol hydrogels

Abstract A series of thermo-sensitive hydrogels has been prepared from reactions of acylated poly(ethylene glycol) bis(carboxymethyl) ether (PEGBCOCl) (M n =600 dalton ) with lactitol-based polyether polyols (LPEPs). These LPEP hydrogels swelled extensively in water at neutral pH and their swelling behaviors depended strongly on the PEGBCOCl:LPEP molar ratios or extent of PEGBCOCl crosslinking. A maximum swelling of 81 fold was observed on hydrogels formed with LPEP (M n =4055 dalton ) at a PEGBCOCl:LPEP molar ratio of 4.25. At temperatures above 25°C, the hydrogels exhibited a phase transition and collapsed, expelling water. These super-absorbent hydrogels were stable under acidic conditions, but were sensitive to base hydrolysis. Enzyme proteins, i.e. lipase, were incorporated in the hydrogels (0.4–1.2 mg/g) by immersing the collapsed hydrogels in the protein solutions at 25°C. Protein desorption at 40°C occurred rapidly with over 90% of protein released during the first hour. The extent of protein desorption was similar among hydrogels with varying levels of absorbed proteins. The release of the lipase protein molecules is due to the structural collapse of the hydrogels and is not diffusion controlled.
Spectroscopic studies of PrCl3 and PrBr3 in the solid state

Abstract PrCl 3 and PrBr 3 have been investigated by X-ray powder diffraction analysis, solid state absorption spectrophotometry, and Raman spectroscopy. The X-ray diffraction results indicated that PrCl 3 exhibited the UCl 3 -type hexagonal crystal structure, whereas PrBr 3 was dimorphic. The low-temperature form of PrBr 3 exhibited this hexagonal structure, while the form prepared by quenching molten PrBr 3 exhibited the PuBr 3 -type orthorhombic crystal structure. Solid state absorption spectra were recorded for the three materials and were consistent with expected crystal field effects. Phonon Raman spectra were obtained and are comparable with the Raman spectra of isostructural compounds.
The energy impact of U.S. passenger vehicle fuel economy standards

Proposed fuel economy standards in the U.S. require new vehicles to achieve at least 34.1 miles per gallon on average by 2016. Scenarios of vehicle technology deployment indicate that this target is aggressive, requiring significant changes. New vehicles must become, lighter, smaller and a greater number will use advanced, more fuel-efficient powertrains. These changes can reduce fuel use, and also have implications on automotive material use and their corresponding production energy demands. This paper explores these effects to assess the energy impact of the fuel economy standards over time.
IC-P3-161: Longitudinal study of change of atrophy and cognition in African-Americans and Caucasians in a community population

component correlated with FA. Conclusions: The positive correlation between hippocampal FA and dendrites supports the hypothesis that barriers to diffusion created by hippocampal dendrites account for differences observed in FA. Further, the present results suggest that the Tg2576 mice in [1] failed to add dendrites between 3 and 5 months of age. Future experiments will utilize DTI to investigate the relationship between hippocampal dendrites and other aspects of AD pathology with the ultimate goal of integrating DTI of the hippocampus into clinical diagnosis of AD.
Quaternion based segmentation for vanilla recognition

Vanilla is the second most expensive spice worldwide. The high cost of vanilla has led to the problem of dangerous adulterated substitutes. Its high cost is attributed largely to the labor intensive hand pollination required where the melipona bee is not present. This article proposes a method of segmenting vanilla images intended for robotic control of a future automated pollination system. We present the specialization of a hypercomplex numbers based segmentation technique for vanilla flower recognition. The specialization overcomes much of the difficulty of differentiating green flowers from their similarly colored surroundings. Comparison is given to previous hypercomplex numbers based segmentation without the specialization.
Economic Analysis of a Vertical Sheet Algal Photobioreactor for Biodiesel Production

The combination of a 100% increase in diesel fuel prices since 2002 and a new photobioreactor technology has renewed interest in producing biodiesel, a direct petroleum diesel fuel substitute, from microalgae. A new photobioreactor technology in which the microalgae are grown on vertically suspended membranes promises to increase algal productivity per acre ten-fold compared to microalgae ponds, and 400-fold compared to soybeans. This paper describes the general photobioreactor concept and assesses the economic viability of such technology given the current crude oil prospects. The majority of the data necessary for assessment are obtained from published articles, with experimental results providing the remaining necessary information. Analysis results indicate that the photobioreactor would need to be constructed and operate on the order of dollars per square foot per year.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Oxygen microsensor and its application to single cells and mouse pancreatic islets.

An oxygen microsensor with a <3-μm tip diameter was developed for monitoring oxygen levels at single cells and mouse pancreatic islets. The sensor was fabricated by electrochemically recessing an etched Pt wire inside a pulled glass micropipet and then coating with cellulose acetate. This fabrication process was found to be simpler than previous oxygen electrode designs of comparable size. The microsensors had a average sensitivity of 0.59 ± 0.29 pA/mmHg (mean ± SD, n = 42), signals that were minimally perturbed by convection, and response times of <1 s. The electrode was used to measure the oxygen gradient around and inside single mouse islets. The measurements demonstrate that oxygen levels within even the largest islets at maximal glucose stimulation are 67 ± 1.6 mmHg (mean ± SD, n = 5), indicating that islets have adequate oxygen supplies by diffusion under tissue culture conditions to support insulin secretion. The electrode was also used to record the dynamics of oxygen level at single islets as a f...
Molecular diagnosis of exocrine pancreatic cancer using a percutaneous technique.

Background: The K-ras oncogene is activated by point mutations at codon 12 in most patients with exocrine pancreatic cancer. Mutant-enriched polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification can enhance the detection of mutated K-ras. This technique was applied to patients undergoing percutaneous fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy of suspect pancreatic lesions.