cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Relationship Between Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug Use, Helicobacter pylori, and Gastroduodenal Mucosal Injury

With the realization that Helicobacter pylori is the main etiologic factor for peptic ulcer disease, recent studies have explored a potential relationship between H. pylori and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-related gastroduodenal mucosal injury. Using serology and/or histology to detect H. pylori, case-control studies have shown no meaningful differences in H. pylori prevalence in both arthritis and nonarthritis NSAID users and controls. Placebo-controlled short-term trials of NSAIDs have also shown no change in the frequency of detection of H. pylori by gastric mucosal biopsy specimens after 7–30 days of NSAID ingestion. A number of studies have shown that the histological gastritis identified in NSAID users is caused by H. pylori infection, whereas the reactive (chemical) gastritis can be caused by NSAID use. Although the overall relationship between H. pylori gastritis and dyspepsia remains controversial, there is no evidence from well-controlled studies using either serology or histology that this gastritis predisposes to NSAID-related dyspepsia. The effect of H. pylori on NSAID-related gastroduodenal mucosal injury may be best established by evaluating the ulcer recurrence rate after H. pylori eradication and rechallenge with NSAIDs. To date, only one such study has examined this question, and in this small study, the ulcer recurrence rate at 6 months was not reduced by H. pylori eradication.
Dynamic characteristics of piezoelectric shear deformable composite plates

Layered composites have attracted attention for their high specific stiffness, high specific strength, and application specific tailoring of their properties. It is also recognized that layered composites are prone to delamination failure in addition to other failure modes. Consideration of transverse shear on the deformation behavior of the composites is an important aspect in the study of delamination mode failure of such plates. In this paper, we consider the effects of including the transverse shear deformation on the vibration characteristics of layered piezoelectric composites. The formulation is based on the Raleigh-Ritz method using the beam characteristic functions. MATLAB based symbollic math tool box is used in evaluating th eintegrals resulting from the Raleigh Ritz approach. Various commonly occuring boundary conditions are discussed. Results are provided showing the effects of the shear deformation on the dynamics of layered laminated composites. The effects of laminate thickness, fiber orientation, and the plate aspect ratios on the free vibration characteristics of the composite laminates are given to demonstrate the methodology described.
Sources of exponents

Abstract Examples are given of scaling relationships governed by fractional exponents. Additional examples are presented with heavy tail probability distributions governed by a fractional exponent. This includes the analysis of the Boltzmann–Gibbs entropy, subject to an appropriate constraint, to generate long-tailed probability distributions. The stretched exponential distribution is employed to derive a time scale for the glass transition that contains an essential singularity at a critical temperature. These examples demonstrate that there are many routes to producing fractional exponents in physical systems.
The cis requirements for transcriptional activation by HilA, a virulence determinant encoded on SPI‐1

In several models of pathogenesis, Salmonella requires genes encoded on Salmonella pathogenicity island 1 (SPI-1) for virulence. In Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (S. typhimurium), most SPI-1 genes are arranged in operons and are co-ordinately regulated in response to environmental signals via the SPI-1-encoded protein HilA. In order to understand how HilA controls the transcription of SPI-1 genes, we have analysed the invF and prgH promoters. We have reconstituted HilA-dependent activation of both promoters in Escherichia coli by supplying hilA on a plasmid, strongly suggesting that HilA acts directly on the promoters. By analysing the HilA-dependent activity of deletions and mutations in PinvF, we identified cis elements necessary for HilA-dependent activation. Through biochemical studies, we have defined a probable HilA-binding sequence in the invF promoter. This ‘HilA box’ is intact in the minimal promoter identified through deletion analysis, and it is disrupted in one class of PinvF mutants that has reduced activation by HilA. The prgH promoter also contains a HilA box in the same position relative to the +1 of transcription. This work is the first to connect HilA-dependent environmental regulation with a specific sequence in a SPI-1 virulence gene promoter.
Novel distributed feedback structure for surface-emitting semiconductor lasers

ABSTRACT A novel distributed feedback structure for wavelength-resonant surface-emitting semi- conductor lasers is proposed and demonstrated. Compared to earlier resonant-periodic-gain de- vices, the total thickness of the new structure can be considerably smaller while retaining the characteristic features of the resonant-periodic-gain active medium. Room-temperature cw andpulsed operation of first distributed-feedback resonant-periodic-gain A1GaAs/GaAs/A1As laseris reported. 1 . INTRODUCTION Surface-emitting semiconductor lasers are attracting considerable attention due to a widerange of their potential applications. There have been several approaches (vertical resonators,second-order grating coupling, and inclined mirrors) to achieve emission of the laser beam through the top surface. Among these, vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VC-SELs)"2 offer distinct advantages of planar geometry, stable single-longitudinal-mode oscillation, and low- divergence circular output beam. Small-area low-threshold-current lasers can be used in optical
Organometal-induced antinociception: A time- and dose-response comparison of triethyl and trimethyl lead and tin

Recent reports have demonstrated that organolead and -tin compounds can alter behavioral reactivity to noxious stimuli. To further define the dose response and temporal characteristics of these neurobehavioral effects, male Fischer 344 rats were injected sc with either one-fourth, one-half, or three-fourths the acute LD50 of triethyl lead (TEL), triethyl tin (TET), trimethyl lead (TML), trimethyl tin (TMT), or distilled water and tested on a 57.5 degrees C hot plate 1, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days after dosing. All four organometals altered hot plate latencies, but the magnitude and time course of these effects differed among the compounds. TEL produced a dose-related increase in latencies which was maximal 1 and 7 days postdosing and had dissipated by 28 days. In contrast, the group administered TML (3/4 LD50) exhibited a late developing antinocioception which became evident 14 days after dosing and persisted throughout the period of testing. The intermediate dose of TMT (1/2 LD50) also produced a delayed increase in response times which was observed 21 and 28 days post-treatment. The 3/4 LD50 dose of TMT produced increased hot plate latencies on all post-treatment test days except Day 14. TET (1/2 LD50) produced increased hot plate latencies 1, 7, 14, and 21 days postdosing and also induced a reversible ataxia and akinesia. Higher doses of TET proved lethal to 80% of the animals and lower doses failed to alter response times in the hot plate. These data demonstrate that trialkyl lead and tin compounds can produce time- and dose-related increases in hot plate latencies.
It's not hype, it's communication: using public relations techniques to improve your technical messages

Technical communicators are concerned that if they employ public relations (PR) techniques, they somehow compromise their work. They believe PR equates with hype. To those in the field, PR means simply how people relate. Knowing PR techniques gives one a better understanding of human factors and interactions; using the techniques improves the chances for communication to occur. It is concluded that if technical communicators are willing to learn PR techniques, they will gain strong tools to strengthen their messages. >
Measuring the quality of the consumer's basket

This article describes an approach to the measurement of the change in the quality of the consumer's basket, based on shifts in the basket composition toward and away from luxury goods and necessities. One of the results is that the income elasticity of the demand for quality appears to be equal to a weighted variance of the income elasticities of the individual goods and services. The discussion includes an application to the annual changes in the Dutch consumer's basket from 1922 to 1963 as well as an analysis of the decomposition of quality change between and within commodity groups.
Varicella-zoster virus: infection, control, and prevention

Varicella-zoster virus is a herpes virus that produces a primary infection, chickenpox, manifested by a vesicular eruption and is considered one of the common childhood infectious diseases. After the initial infection the virus becomes latent, then when activated it is manifested as herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles. This highly communicable human disease is associated with serious morbidity and significant mortality, particularly among the immunocompromised. When introduced in the hospital, significant disruptions occur and serious sequelae may result. Recently, a live virus varicella vaccine was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in the United States. Studies have shown the vaccine to be safe and effective. Widespread use of this vaccine may be beneficial in reducing the opportunities for varicella-zoster virus introductions in health care settings
Forum three: Changes in the U.S. health care system that would facilitate improved care for non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus

At the conclusion of the conference detailed in this supplement, conference attendees participated in one of three fora to discuss an assigned topic and incorporate conference presentations into th...
Rheology and wire coating of high atomic number metal-low density polyethylene composites

The rheological properties of high atomic number metal-low density polyethylene composites were investigated. Tungsten, tungsten carbide, and lead powders were studied at concentrations up to 10 volume percent. Viscosity-shear rate, die swell-shear rate, and melt draw down to break data were, determined as functions of filler type, filler concentration, and particulate size at 200°C. The viscosity data were found to fit the Einstein relationship over the range of filler loadings and shear rates investigated. Tanner's equation was used to calculate the first normal stress difference from the die swell data. The effect of the fillers on the predicted first normal stress difference was contrary to previously observed experimental evidence. Melt draw down to break data was found to be very sensitive to filler contamination and correlated quite well with wire coating experiments. During low-speed wire coating runs coating quality was found to be seriously affected by small levels of contamination present in the fillers. Coating duality was determined by surface smoothness and uniformity.
Resource recovery — An idea whose time has come

Having watched the trend towards resource recovery over the past quarter of a century, with its fluctuating ups and downs, I have observed a steadily increasing concern about the wastefulness of our economy. The nation has now entered a new era in waste management. Not that we have arrived, but rather we have begun. The path of resource recovery is strewn with past failures and the road ahead is filled with many pitfalls; however, it is the first peacetime period during which the United States has demonstrated a real and increasing interest in the conservation of energy and material resources. Despite a total lack of support from the present administration, the Congress and the people seem clearly inclined to proceed toward the establishment of an economy based more on conservation than on waste.
Tumor lipids: carbon number distribution of triglycerides and glyceryl ether diesters.

Triglycerides and glyceryl ether diesters were isolated from a number of transplantable rat and mouse tumors and analyzed intact by gas liquid chromatography (GLC). The carbon number distributions of the triglycerides were distinctly different from those of the glyceryl ether diesters. Both glyceride classes contained abnormally high molecular weight species. The data support earlier evidence that indicated diglycerides used for the biosynthesis of phosphatides are also precursors of triglycerides in neoplasms. Glycerides isolated from three centrifuged fractions of Ehrlich ascites cells exhibited similar carbon number distributions. The results indicate a random distribution of triglyceride and glyceryl ether diester molecular species among cellular organeiles. Triglycerides, glyceryl ether diesters and neutral plasmalogens of the same carbon number were partially resolved by GLC.
Attrition of char agglomerates

Abstract A 15.2 cm diameter fluidized bed system with single- and multiple-jet distributors was designed and constructed to study the attrition behavior and mechanism of Kentucky No. 9 char from IGT's U-GAS fluidized bed gasifier. The effects of the jet and auxiliary gas velocities, the number of jets, the bed height, and the roughness of the fluidized bed wall on the attrition of char particles were studied. Particle shape variation during attrition was calculated by comparing our experimental data on pressure drop for a packed bed with the Ergun equation prediction. A mathematical procedure was developed to translate the size distribution variation of particles in the fluidized bed to the attrition rate expression.
Echocardiographic Evaluation of Pulmonary Embolism and Its Response to Therapeutic Interventions

Imaging and Doppler echocardiography permits assessment of right ventricular size and systolic function and of pulmonary arterial pressures, and it may facilitate detection of thromboemboli within the heart or pulmonary artery. In patients with acute pulmonary embolism of sufficient severity to appreciably increase right ventricular afterload, the right ventricle becomes dilated and hypokinetic. Tricuspid regurgitation is generally apparent, but in the absence of preexisting pulmonary arterial or left heart pathology, the regurgitant flow velocity suggests only mild to mild-moderate elevation of pulmonary arterial systolic pressure. The absence of a greater degree of pulmonary hypertension reflects the inability of the previously normal, nonhypertrophied right ventricle to generate a mean pulmonary arterial pressure in excess of about 40 mm Hg. The echocardiographic abnormalities resolve during recovery from pulmonary embolism. Currently being investigated is the question of whether right heart abnormalities resolve more rapidly with thrombolytic therapy than with heparin therapy alone.
Atlantic Remote Sensing Land Ocean Experiment (ARSLOE)

ARSLOE was a multi-organization experiment held October 6 to November 30, 1980, near Duck, North Carolina. It provided a large number of wind-wave and related measurements to intercompare and develop wave measurement systems and to evaluate and improve wave models. These sessions are the first organized public presentations of the preliminary results. This paper is an introduction to the experiment and presentations.
Radiation therapy for localized prostate cancer

Since 1965, 401 patients with prostate cancer have received intensive local pelvic radiation therapy at the Virginia Mason Medical Center. Two hundred seventy-seven of these patients were treated from 1965 through 1975, comprising the study group. Two hundred twenty-one of this series were in the Stage C category. The 36 Stage B cancers were either medically nonoperable, or advanced extent, or had high-grade histopathology. Ten patients each were in diffuse Stage A or Stage D groups, the latter receiving local palliative intensive treatment to the prostate area. The mean age of the patients was 67.6 years. The five year survival of the Stage C group was 57.7%. There was no apparent influence on the survival of irradiated Stage C patients who received estrogen therapy. Current treatment techniques employ 10 megavolt photon beam with whole pelvic nodal fields and bilateral arc rotational boost fields. The incidence of reactions and complications is presented. Cancer 43:1123–1127, 1979.
Does preadmission anticoagulation therapy reduce stroke severity in patients with atrial fibrillation

Does preadmission anticoagulation therapy reduce stroke severity in patients with atrial fibrillation?
Hold me; heal me: Providing a holding environment through the use of poetry therapy

The use of poetry therapy is examined through the lens of the holding environment of attachment theory. The process of reading and writing poetry, as well as the finished product of poetry, is seen as providing a holding environment within which healing can occur.
Plasticizer effects on vinyl extrusion efficiency

The choice of plasticizer for extrusion of flexible vinyl profiles is usually made for product performance properties. This paper deals with plasticizer influence on the entire extrusion process from dry-blend preparation to final extruded profile. Undestanding the effect of plasticizer throughout the extrusion line helps the compounder optimize for higher production rates, lower energy input, improved profile quality and better final physical properties. This study focused on the effect of low molecular weight, fast fusing plasticizers in the extrusion processing of general purpose formulations. Butyl benzyl phthalate was used as partial replacement for dialkyl phthalates. A positive influence of this replacement was observed in dry-blend preparation, in the compound extrusion step, in the finished extrusion step and in final product quality.
Cocaine use disorders and suicidal ideation.

Abstract The goal of this study was to determine the contribution of substance abuse to the expression of suicidal ideation in a sample of patients referred for evaluation of chemical dependency in a large urban Psychiatric Emergency Service (PES). Records from 777 consecutive patients referred to the chemical dependency service of the PES were analyzed. Of this sample, 43.7% of the patients with only a cocaine use disorder expressed suicidal ideation compared to 38% of those with both cocaine and alcohol use disorders, 24.3% with only an alcohol use disorder and 17% with other drug use disorders (χ2=24.768; df=3; P
Mandates and technology acceptance: A tale of two enterprise technologies

Enterprise information systems are usually mandatory. However, surprisingly little research has been directed to the nature and operation of mandates in research on enterprise systems and on information technology implementation. This study takes a closer look at mandates and their role in the implementation and acceptance of enterprise technologies. Our analysis focuses on the implementation of two enterprise level systems in a major state-funded university system in the US: (1) a state-wide financial management information system that is mandated for use by a large university system; and (2) a system-wide financial and administrative information system that is designed at the university system level and mandated for the individual units of the university system. The analysis offers a deeper look at mandates and is intended to surface features not evident when mandates are regarded simply as another type of directive or order from top management. It also illuminates the politics of enterprise system implementation from the perspective of the negotiation of meaning and responsibilities.
THE PROSECUTION AND PUNISHMENT OF INTERNATIONAL TERRORISTS IN FEDERAL COURTS: 1980–1998*

Research Summary: This study reports findings from the American Terrorism Study. The data show that from 1980 to 1998, the U.S. government periodically tried accused domestic and international terrorists through the use of traditional criminal trials. The extent to which federal prosecutors “explicit politicized” these trials (and the success that the politicization had) varied among the types of terrorist groups. Explicit politically was not found to be successful in trials of domestic terrorists but seemed to work for trials involving international terrorists. Over the 20-year period, however, federal prosecutors began to rely more heavily (and more successfully) on the politicization of the criminal acts by international terrorists. The results also show that international terrorists, like their domestic counterparts, are much less likely to plead guilty. Finally, the study shows that these traditional trials have resulted in international terrorists being punished more severely than domestic terrorists. Unfortunately, the practice of performing these politicized trials within the venue of the federal court system may have been compromised by defense strategies that capitalized on the due process procedures so prominent in the U.S. system of justice. In the wake of the terrorism attacks in September 2001 by foreign nationals, the federal government began to take the next step in its “war against terrorism” by instituting the use of military tribunals. Policy Implications: Although the federal government has been relatively successful in the prosecution of terrorism in America in the past two decades, the movement toward the use of military tribunals has perhaps become inevitable (as the use of the traditional criminal trial for international terrorists manifests weaknesses). In the short term, it is likely that several international terrorism cases stemming from the September 2001 attacks and other subsequent attacks (which may be presumed) will be tried in federal courthouses across the country (even with the advent of military tribunals). Federal prosecutors will need to be trained on the specifics of trying these kinds of cases. In the long term, the use of military tribunals will provide greater ease of prosecution for the federal government. Long-term consequences such as retaliatory attacks and attacks aimed at the release of political prisoners cannot be ignored by policy makers.
Sequence of operations optimization in single-stage multifunctional systems

Abstract The problem of optimizing a traditional or high-speed single-stage multifunctional numerically-controlled machine is investigated. In current practice, the parameters of the sequence for part machining processing, cutting conditions, and tool magazine organization are defined manually by a machine programmer or operator. These parameters are usually conservative and away from their optimal values. The machine should, however, maximize the throughput without cost penalty. In this paper, mathematical machining models combined with heuristic optimization algorithms (which determine the optimum values of the aforementioned parameters) are proposed to solve this problem. The optimum tool magazine organization for large batch or mass production systems minimizes the tool change time and maximizes the time between tool magazine reloadings. The optimization scheme can be utilized for modeling and simulation purposes in metal cutting environments where numerical control (NC)_equipment or flexible manufacturing systems (FMSs) are used. This work is therefore directed toward the development of an expert-system-based automated part machining process planner and tool magazine organizer. Its goal is to reduce the use of skilled human interaction. The proposed approach and its advantages are finally illustrated through an application example.
Gene expression of zebrafish embryos exposed to titanium dioxide nanoparticles and hydroxylated fullerenes.

Abstract Increased release of engineered nanoparticles to the environment suggests a rising need for the monitoring and evaluation of potential toxicity. Zebrafish frequently have been used as a model species in human and aquatic toxicology studies. In this study, zebrafish embryos were microinjected in the otic vesicle with a sublethal dose of engineered nanoparticles (titanium dioxide/TiO 2 and hydroxylated fullerenes/C 60 (OH) 24 ). A gene microarray analysis was performed on injected and control embryos to determine the potential for nanoparticles to change the expression of genes involved in cross talk of the nervous and immune systems. The exposure to TiO 2 and hydroxylated fullerenes caused shifts in gene regulation response patterns that were similar for downregulated genes but different for upregulated genes. Significant effects on gene regulation were observed on genes involved in circadian rhythm, kinase activity, vesicular transport and immune response. This is the first report of circadian rhythm gene deregulation by nanoparticles in aquatic animals, indicating the potential for broad physiological and behavioral effects controlled by the circadian system.
Kinetic effect of Pd additions on the hydrogen uptake of chemically-activated ultramicroporous carbon

The effect of mixing chemically-activated ultramicroporous carbon (UMC) with Pd nanopowder is investigated. Results show that Pd addition doubles the rate of hydrogen uptake, but does not enhance the hydrogen capacity or improve desorption kinetics. The effect of Pd on the rate of hydrogen adsorption supports the existence of the hydrogen spillover mechanism in the Pd – UMC system.
The interface between bone and tendon at an insertion site: a study of the quadriceps tendon insertion

Traumatic avulsions of ligament or tendon insertions rarely occur at the actual interface with bone, which suggests that this attachment is strong or otherwise protected from injury by the structure of the insertion complex. In this study we describe the terminal extent of quadriceps tendon fibres where they insert into the patellae of adult rabbits, humans, dogs and sheep. Specimens were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and light microscopy (LM). To facilitate tracing of tendon fibres the specimens were decalcified for SEM, and polarised light microscopy (PLM) was used in the LM segment of the study. By SEM it was possible to identify mature bone by the presence of osteocytes and a lamellar organisation. PLM and SEM showed that, unlike tendon fibres elsewhere, those in the calcified fibrocartilage were not crimped. No specific cement line was identified by SEM. Tendon fibres interdigitated among separate bone lamellar systems, (osteons or marrow spaces), but did not merge with the collagen systems of individual lamellae. The interdigitation was more extensive and the margin between tendon and bone was less distinct in the anterior third of the insertion. The segment of calcified tendon which interdigitated with bone stained less intensely blue and was less cellular than the more proximal calcified fibrocartilage zone adjacent to the tidemark. Lamellar collagen fibres of the bony trabeculae in the anterior patella were unusually parallel and longitudinal in orientation, making distinction of interposed tendon fibres difficult on LM and PLM sections. LM, SEM and transmission electron microscopy of rabbit patellae at birth revealed that anterior quadriceps tendon fibres extended over the patella in a fibrous cellular layer. By 2 wk of age, this layer had acquired chondroid features (i.e. cell lacunae and metachromasia) and contained vessels extending from patellar marrow. At 6 wk of age, part of this fibrocartilaginous layer was replaced by mature bone and osteoid. In the young adult animal, the quadriceps tension interdigitates extensively with the patellar bone. This segment of the insertion is perhaps the remnant of calcified fibrocartilage which has been remodelled by bone formation.
Inhibition by bile salts of the jejunal transport of 3-O-methyl glucose.

THE action of bile salts on the intestinal absorption of fat is well known1 although their role on the transport of water soluble substrates remains poorly defined. Inhibition of monosaccharide transport by both unconjugated and conjugated bile salts has been reported2,3. Pope and co-workers, however, using highly purified preparations of bile salts in jejunal loops from normal rats, concluded that conjugated bile salts have no physiological action on the absorption of glucose in normal animals5. We have reassessed this problem in bile depleted rats using extracorporeally perfused segments of rat jejunum removed with their intact circulation.
Genomic instability: The cause and effect of BCR/ABL tyrosine kinase

Genes encoding c-ABL kinase and BCR protein are targeted by yet-unknown mechanisms causing DNA double-strand breaks resulting in the generation of a chimeric gene encoding BCR/ABL fusion tyrosine kinase. BCR/ABL kinase displays transforming activity because of its constitutive kinase activity causing deregulated proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation, and adhesion. Moreover, BCR/ABL kinase is able to facilitate DNA repair, prolong activation of G2/M and S cell cycle checkpoints, and elevate expression of the antiapoptotic protein Bcl-X(L), making malignant cells less responsive to antitumor treatment. BCR/ABL may also stimulate generation of reactive oxygen species and enhance spontaneous DNA damage in tumor cells. Unfortunately, BCR/ABL kinase compromises the fidelity of DNA repair mechanisms, thus contributing to the accumulation of additional genetic abnormalities that lead to resistance to inhibitors such as imatinib mesylate and to malignant progression of the disease. Therefore, chronic myelogenous leukemia cells display mutator phenotype.
Crystallography: solid oxygen takes shape

Oxygen crystallizes into a sequence of structures, starting as an insulator at low pressure and becoming a superconductor at high pressure. The elusive structure of an intermediate phase has now been determined.
Reliability of motion features in surveillance videos

Although a tremendous effort has been made to perform a reliable analysis of images and videos in the past fifty years, the reality is that one cannot rely 100% on the analysis results. With exception of applications in controlled environments (e.g., machine vision application), one has to deal with an open world, which means that content of images may significantly change, and it seems impossible to predict all possible changes. Relying on content-based video analysis may lead to bogus results, since the observed changes may be consequence of unreliable features, and not necessarily of observed events of interest. Our main strategy is to estimate the feature properties when the features are reliable computed, so that any set of features that does not have these properties is detected as being unreliable. This way we do not perform any direct content analysis, but instead perform unsupervised analysis of feature properties that are related to the reliability. The solution pursuit in this paper is to monitor the reliability of the computed features using temporal changes and statistical properties of feature value distributions. Results on benchmark real-life videos demonstrate the capability of the proposed techniques to successfully eliminate problems due to change in light conditions, transition/compression artifacts and unwanted camera motions.
The Benefits and Costs of Informal Sector Pollution Control: Mexican Brick Kilns

In developing countries, the rapid proliferation of informal firms – low-technology unlicensed micro-enterprises – is having significant environmental impacts. Yet environmental management authorities typically ignore such firms. This paper estimates the annual net benefits (benefits minus costs) of controlling particulate emissions from a collection of informal brick kilns in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico and from two of the city's leading formal industrial polluters. We find that the annual net benefits of controlling brick kiln emissions are substantial – in the tens of millions of dollars – and exceed those for the two formal industrial facilities by a significant margin. These results suggest that, in some cases, the conventional allocation of pollution control resources across formal and informal polluters may be suboptimal.
Fractional biorthogonal partners in fractionally spaced equalizers

The concept of fractional biorthogonal partners has been introduced recently by the authors. They arise in many different contexts, one of them being channel equalization with fractionally spaced equalizers. If the amount of oversampling at the receiver is not an integer, but a rational number, the problem of fractionally spaced equalization can be treated using the fractional biorthogonal partner setting. This approach is adopted here. We consider fractionally spaced equalizers with a rational amount of oversampling, show that the FIR solution (if it exists) is not unique and can be chosen to minimize the noise power at the receiver. These findings are demonstrated by examples where we compare the performance of fractionally spaced zero forcing equalizers to that of the corresponding minimum mean-squared error solution.
The effects of respirator use on workers' productivity in a mentally stressing task.

This article quantitatively determines the effect of wearing half-facepiece respirators, the most widely used type in industry, on worker productivity and efficiency in a mentally stressing task. An experiment investigated the performance of 10 subjects in a task simulating inspection of printed circuit boards. Accuracy and mean reaction time were tested automatically. Paced and unpaced task simulations were used to evaluate the effect of wearing the respirator on response times and the accuracy of subjects' responses for different product complexities and quality levels. The results indicated that wearing the respirator, in general, did not affect the speed or accuracy of subjects performing simulated inspection tasks. Pacing the task resulted in longer response times but did not affect accuracy. More complex products resulted in longer response times but also did not affect accuracy. High product quality resulted in longer response times and a higher miss rate. In terms of accuracy and reaction times a ...
Ascending In Utero Herpes Simplex Virus Infection in an Initially Healthy-Appearing Premature Infant

The usual route of acquisition for intrauterine herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection is transplacental. We evaluated a premature infant with in utero acquisition of HSV resulting from ascending infection. Histopathologic evidence of chronic chorioamnionitis and positive staining with immunohistochemistry for HSV in the placenta and umbilical cord established the diagnosis. The clinical presentation was also of interest in that the infant was initially healthy appearing.
Theoretical calculation of the vibrational modes in Ge46 clathrate and related MxGayGe46-y type clathrates

We have calculated theoretically the vibrational modes of the type-I Ge 46 clathrate and some related Zintl phase structures M x Ga y Ge 46- y using ab initio density functional theory. The vibrational modes of pure Ge 46 (without guest species) are compared to the M x Ga y Ge 46- y structures, and it is found that small metal atoms (e.g. Na) have vanishing restoring force in the large cage, while the larger alkali-earth metal Ba has a restoring force constant less than 10% of that of the a framework atom. This makes them ideal “rattler” systems.
Adrenalectomy eliminates the extinction spike in autoshaping with rats

Experiment 1, using rats, investigated the effect of adrenalectomy (ADX) on the invigoration of lever-contact performance that occurs in the autoshaping situation after a shift from acquisition to extinction (called the extinction spike). Groups of rats with ADX or sham operations were trained under spaced and massed conditions [average intertrial intervals (ITI) of either 15 or 90 s] for 10 sessions and then shifted to extinction. ADX did not affect acquisition training but it eliminated the extinction spike. Plasma corticosterone levels during acquisition were shown in Experiment 2 to be similar in rats trained under spaced or massed conditions. Adrenal participation in the emotional arousal induced by conditions of surprising nonreward (e.g., extinction) is discussed.
Defense against cannibalism : the SdpI family of bacterial immunity/signal transduction proteins

The SdpI family consists of putative bacterial toxin immunity and signal transduction proteins. One member of the family in Bacillus subtilis, SdpI, provides immunity to cells from cannibalism in times of nutrient limitation. SdpI family members are transmembrane proteins with 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 12 putative transmembrane α-helical segments (TMSs). These varied topologies appear to be genuine rather than artifacts due to sequencing or annotation errors. The basic and most frequently occurring element of the SdpI family has 6 TMSs. Homologues of all topological types were aligned to determine the homologous TMSs and loop regions, and the positive-inside rule was used to determine sidedness. The two most conserved motifs were identified between TMSs 1 and 2 and TMSs 4 and 5 of the 6 TMS proteins. These showed significant sequence similarity, leading us to suggest that the primordial precursor of these proteins was a 3 TMS–encoding genetic element that underwent intragenic duplication. Various deletional and fusional events, as well as intragenic duplications and inversions, may have yielded SdpI homologues with topologies of varying numbers and positions of TMSs. We propose a specific evolutionary pathway that could have given rise to these distantly related bacterial immunity proteins. We further show that genes encoding SdpI homologues often appear in operons with genes for homologues of SdpR, SdpI’s autorepressor. Our analyses allow us to propose structure–function relationships that may be applicable to most family members.
EVOLUTION OF BODY SIZE IN THE MAP TURTLES AND SAWBACKS (EMYDIDAE: DEIROCHELYINAE: GRAPTEMYS)

Map turtles and sawbacks (Emydidae: Deirochelyinae: Graptemys) are a diverse group of turtles that are of ecological interest due to their diversity in trophic morphology, particularly in females, and their extreme sexual size dimorphism (with females larger). I used comparative analyses (independent contrasts in correlation analyses and GLM analyses) to examine hypotheses regarding the evolution of body size in the genus. Evolutionary changes in body size of both males and females were positively related to inferred shifts in latitude. Trophic morphology (relative head width, expressed either as a continuous or a discrete variable) was not an additive source of variation in male body size, but was for female body size, primarily due to the large body sizes exhibited by the megacephalic southern clade (G. pulchra, G. ernsti, G. gibbonsi, and G. barbouri). Status as allopatric or sympatric to other species of Graptemys was not an additive source of variation in female body size. These results argue against...
A Synchronous Facial Nerve Schwannoma and Neurofibroma: Case Report and Review of the Literature

Objectives: To present the case of a histologically proven facial nerve collision tumor involving an intraparotid neurofi broma and a vertical mastoid segment schwannoma. Study Design: Case report and review of the literature Methods: Case report and review of the literature Results: A 29-year-old woman presented with a two-year history of an asymptomatic left infraauricular mass and normal facial nerve function. Both CT and MRI demonstrated a cystic mass in the deep portion of the parotid gland extending superiorly into the stylomastoid foramen involving the vertical segment of the facial nerve; no other intracranial or skull base tumors were identifi ed. Fine needle aspiration was non-diagnostic. The patient underwent a superfi cial parotidectomy with biopsy of the intraparotid cystic mass. This was consistent with a neurofi broma on intraoperative frozen section pathology. A mastoidectomy with facial nerve decompression was then performed to the normal appearing tympanic segment. The facial nerve could not be stimulated proximally and the decision was made to perform a segmental resection of the facial nerve involved by tumor with reconstruction using a great auricular nerve interposition graft. Final pathology demonstrated a schwannoma involving the mastoid segment and a neurofi broma involving the proximal intraparotid segment.
Teacher Perspectives on Career-Relevant Curriculum in Middle School.

AbstractRelevant, challenging, integrative, and exploratory all describe the curriculum desirable in middle school (National Middle School Association, 2010). Careerrelevant curriculum is one prominent strategy used since the 1970s to achieve these goals. Systematic, integrated, and contemporary efforts at career education often engage core teachers who plan and deliver the curriculum. For this study, a measure was created to assess teacher perspectives of career education efforts in middle school. A two-factor structure (career integration and future orientation) was demonstrated in exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis of the survey. Results from 291 middle school teachers reveal the potential of career education infusion into the core curriculum, with nominal but statistically significant differences in gender, subject matter, and socioeconomic status of the school. Implications for middle school educators are provided.
PATTERNS OF REPORTING NONCRIMINAL INCIDENTS TO THE POLICE

Reasons for citizen reporting to the police have not been systematically studied. This paper presents the results of an inquiry into the patterns of reporting noncriminal incidents. These events far outnumber crimes reported to the police in most jurisdictions and present unique opportunities for research. Four reporting patterns are presented and discussed: maintaining social boundaries: relieving unpleasant situations; counter-reporting; and correcting hazardous situations. The consequences of these patterns for policing and criminology are outlined in terms of citizens defining the most probable outcomes of situations.
SACRED LANDSCAPES AND BUILDING PRACTICES AT UCI, KANCAB, AND UCANHA, YUCATAN, MEXICO

During the emergence of regional hierarchy around the site of Uci in northwest Yucatan, Mexico, ordinary people affected power relations in at least two ways. First, in the Late Preclassic and Early Classic periods, Uci had the largest ceremonial center and the largest population within a 20 km radius. Uci also physically linked itself to smaller settlements, such as Kancab and Ucanha, by means of a broad stone causeway. Yet Kancab and Ucanha's quadripartite placement of causeways and central plaza suggests that its households created a sacred landscape that gave them a degree of ritual autonomy. Ordinary people impacted power relations a second way by participating in the development of the megalithic architectural style, which was used in the region's most authoritative buildings. The use of this style in domestic platforms illustrates the ability of modest households to make their own decisions and to act in ways that constituted society at large.
GRP and Pavlov's dogs

See article on page 23 The cephalic phase of gastric acid secretion has been a topic of great interest to physiologists and physicians since its description by Pavlov 100 years ago.1 In classic “sham” feeding studies performed on dogs equipped with an oesophageal stoma and a gastric fistula, Pavlov demonstrated that food was a prompt and powerful stimulant of gastric secretion. This stimulation occurred despite the fact that the ingested food entered the dog's mouth and pharynx and exited through the stoma, never actually reaching the stomach. Pavlov went on to demonstrate that severing the vagus nerves just above the diaphragm abolished the gastric acid secretory response to sham feeding in dogs. His experiments demonstrated that sham feeding elicited a potent gastric acid secretory response via the vagus nerves. Although experiments involving surgically created fistulas could not be conducted in humans, in the 1970s Knutson and Olbe developed a “modified” sham feeding technique to study the cephalic phase of gastric acid secretion in patients with duodenal ulcer disease.2-4 Patients chewed and expectorated appetising food without swallowing it, and a tube inserted into the stomach collected gastric fluid for acid analysis. Using modified sham feeding …
ProbeSelect: selecting differentially expressed probes in transcriptional profile data

Summary: Transcriptional profiling still remains one of the most popular techniques for identifying relevant biomarkers in patient samples. However, heterogeneity in the population leads to poor statistical evidence for selection of most relevant biomarkers to pursue. In particular, human transcriptional differences can be subtle, making it difficult to tease out real differentially expressed biomarkers from the variability inherent in the population. To address this issue, we propose a simple statistical technique that identifies differentially expressed probes in heterogeneous populations as compared with controls. Availability and implementation: The algorithm has been implemented in Java and available at www.sourceforge.net/projects/probeselect. Contact: moc.liamg@akswokneibj or ude.tim.liasc@agiwdaj Supplementary information: Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Dynamics of Peer Education in Cooperative Learning Workgroups

Many recent studies demonstrate that cooperative learning provides a variety of educational advantages over more traditional instructional models, both in general and specifically in engineering education. Little is known, however, about the interactional dynamics among students in engineering work groups. To explore these dynamics and their implications for engineering education, we analyzed work sessions of student groups in a sophomore-level chemical engineering course at North Carolina State University. Using conversation analysis as a methodology for understanding how students taught and learned from one another, we found that group members generally engaged in two types of teaching-learning interactions. In the first type, transfer-of-knowledge (TK) sequences, they took on distinct teacher and pupil roles, and in the second, collaborative sequences (CS), they worked together with no clear role differentiation. The interactional problems that occurred during the work sessions were associated primarily with TK sequences, and had to do with students who either habitually assumed the pupil's role (constant pupils) or habitually discouraged others' contributions (blockers). Our findings suggest that professors can facilitate student group interactions by introducing students to the two modes of teaching interaction so group members can effectively manage exchanges of knowledge in their work, and also by helping students distribute tasks in a way that minimizes role imbalances. I. Introduction Cooperative learning models are based on the premise that learning is best achieved interactively rather than through a one-way transmission process. To provide enhanced opportunity for interactive learning, students are generally encouraged to work in groups both in and out of class. Value is placed on cooperation and collaboration among students rather than on competitiveness, and an individual's learning success or failure is linked with the learning success or failure of other group members.