cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A pilot quality improvement project facilitating clinical leadership skills in rural new graduate nurses

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to present findings from a pilot quality improvement evidence-based new nurse transition program that facilitates clinical leadership skills in novice nurses at the point of patient care at a rural critical access hospital. Descriptive data from pre- and post-intervention scores are reported, and the percent change was evaluated. Sample: Due to the solitary nature of rural nursing, new graduate nurses in rural areas need support in transitioning to their new role as registered nurses. The author designed, and pilot tested a quality improvement evidence-based new nurse transition program in a rural critical access hospital utilizing complexity science as a framework. Method: A quality improvement pilot program designed for new graduate nurses was provided at a critical access hospital in a rural Midwestern State. Data was collected using pre- and post- intervention scores on the Leadership Characteristics and Skills Assessment and TeamSTEPPS Teamwork Attitudes Questionnaire. Descriptive data was evaluated. Findings: Participant post- test percent change scores increased in perceptions of ability to lead but decreased in attitudes about teamwork. Observations of participant interactions in the quality improvement project suggested that the new nurses were developing new ideas, patterns and structures regarding their roles as a team member in the healthcare setting. Conclusion: In a rural midwestern critical access hospital a quality improvement leadership program that used a complexity science framework was provided to novice nurses in transition. After the program participant total mean post scores increased in perception of what makes a good leader and in the participant’s perception of their ability to lead. An overall mean score decrease in attitudes about teamwork was noted among the small group of rural novice nurses. Keywords: rural, frontier, new registered nurse graduate, transition program, complexity science, leadership
Kidney Disease: Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects 37 million US adults. It is characterized by damage to the renal glomeruli, vascular supply, and/or tubulointerstitium through complex processes involving inflammation, fibrosis, and hyperfiltration. CKD typically is asymptomatic but may be detected incidentally via urinalysis showing proteinuria or blood test results showing an elevated creatinine level. The Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equation is the most accurate creatinine-based method for estimating glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in routine practice. Cystatin C level measurement can be considered if patients have factors that might make creatinine-based equations inaccurate (eg, high or low muscle mass). CKD is defined as a GFR less than 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 or persistent evidence of kidney damage on imaging, biopsy, or urinalysis that persists for longer than 3 months. CKD is classified into stages based on estimated GFR, degree of proteinuria, and the cause. Screening guidelines vary. Screening should be considered if patients are at high risk of CKD (eg, patients with diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, family history of kidney failure). After CKD is identified, is it important to identify and reduce or eliminate exposure to nephrotoxic drugs. Management goals include mitigation of CKD risk factors to slow disease progression, including optimizing management of underlying conditions (eg, hypertension, diabetes).
Stress Transmission within the Cell

An outstanding problem in cell biology is how cells sense mechanical forces and how those forces affect cellular functions. During past decades, it has become evident that the deformable cytoskeleton (CSK), an intracellular network of various filamentous biopolymers, provides a physical basis for transducing mechanical signals into biochemical responses. To understand how mechanical forces regulate cellular functions, it is necessary to first understand how the CSK develops mechanical stresses in response to applied forces, and how those stresses are propagated through the CSK where various signaling molecules are immobilized. New experimental techniques have been developed to quantify cytoskeletal mechanics, which together with new computational approaches have given rise to new theories and models for describing mechanics of living cells. In this article, we discuss current understanding of cell biomechanics by focusing on the biophysical mechanisms that are responsible for the development and transmission of mechanical stresses in the cell and their effect on cellular functions. We compare and contrast various theories and models of cytoskeletal mechanics, emphasizing common mechanisms that those theories are built upon, while not ignoring irreconcilable differences. We highlight most recent advances in the understanding of mechanotransduction in the cytoplasm of living cells and the central role of the cytoskeletal prestress in propagating mechanical forces along the cytoskeletal filaments to activate cytoplasmic enzymes. It is anticipated that advances in cell mechanics will help developing novel therapeutics to treat pulmonary diseases like asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Directional reception vs. directional transmission for maximum lifetime multicast delivery in ad-hoc networks

In this paper, we present a mixed-integer linear program (MILP) designed to optimize max-min path lifetime for multicasts in directional antenna equipped networks in the presence of interference. We then employ the MILP to perform a head-to-head comparison between directional transmission and directional reception. We also propose and analyze a new directional reception heuristic. Our results indicate that directional reception can match directional transmission when extending path lifetime, with lower complexity and employing routes that use much less cumulative power.
Kinematics of treadmill galloping by cats: III. Coordination during gait conversions and implications for neural control

Two previous reports described steady-state galloping by cats, in which the footfall pattern was invariant for a number of successive strides at one velocity. There were three such patterns: rotatory galloping, transverse galloping, and the half bound. This final report concerns mixed galloping on a treadmill, in which the cat converted from one to another of the three gallops from one stride to the next. Cinematographic measurements were taken of conversions that occurred at speeds from 2.0 to 4.6 m/sec. The conversions were in almost every instance flawless, so that each individual stride (a cycle of movement by the four limbs) was readily distinguished as a typical rotatory or transverse gallop or a half bound. Placement order of the two hindlimbs, or the two forelimbs, or both, shifted. Conversions were accomplished by an average increase of 50–100 msec, or decrease of 50 msec, from the usual 200-msec-long swing (up) duration, since stance (down) durations were unchanged. The normal swing, then, is under more flexible neural control than has previously been believed possible. From an examination of a number of interlimb timings, it was concluded that in every expression of galloping by cats on a treadmill a complete stride is demarcated by successive descents of the trailing (rear) hindlimb. This four-limb ensemble is subdivided into paired movements of the hindlimbs and also the forelimbs, each pair also being marked initially by descent of the trailing limb. Selection of left or right limbs as trailing or leading (front) may be arbitrary, may prevent fatigue in individual limbs, or could offset roll at high speeds.
Kinematics of orocline tightening in the core of an arc: Paleomagnetic analysis of the Ponga Unit, Cantabrian Arc, northern Spain

[1] Paleomagnetic and structural analyses of the Western European Variscan Belt (WEVB) suggest that the most viable kinematic model for Variscan deformation in northern Iberia is oroclinal bending of an originally linear belt in a two-stage tectonic history. This history represents two regional compression phases (E-W in the Late Carboniferous and N-S in the Permian, both in present-day coordinates), which resulted in the refolding (about steeply plunging axes) of initially north-south trending thrusts and folds in the hinge zone, and oroclinal tightening due to vertical axis rotation of the belt's limbs. However, the orocline model has yet to be critically tested in the WEVB's core. This study reports new paleomagnetic, rock magnetic, and structural data from the inner core of the WEVB in order to test opposing kinematic models for the well-documented fault and fold interference structures formed by late stage Variscan deformation and to better understand the overall development of the WEVB arc. Map-scale structural features within the WEVB core have a highly sinuous geometry characterized by transverse and thrust-parallel fold systems formed by fault bend folding over footwall ramps. The intersections of these two fold systems produce steeply plunging interference folds, which are best exposed in the Ponga thrust unit. A total of 67 paleomagnetic sites were collected in the Barcaliente Formation of the Ponga Unit, with emphasis placed on detailed spatial coverage of individual structural domains. A multicomponent paleomagnetic remanence was measured, which is interpreted to be composed of two components; a low unblocking temperature recent viscous magnetization and a high unblocking temperature ancient magnetization that was acquired in the latest Stephanian to Early Permian after initial D1 thrusting and folding bur prior to major secondary rotation. Rock magnetic experiments show that the characteristic remanence magnetization is carried by secondary authigenic pseudosingle-domain magnetite. These paleomagnetic results are used to determine the kinematics and geometry of postmagnetization deformation by restoring in situ magnetic vectors back to a defined reference direction. On the basis of the restored Ponga Unit geometry, the steeply plunging interference folds found in the WEVB core are best described by a combination of secondary buckling of frontal-ramp-parallel hanging wall anticlines and modification of D1 lateral/oblique ramps as frontal ramps during late stage north-south shortening. This combination of structural modification of the inner core of the WEVB was necessary to accommodate oroclinal bending during the final amalgamation of Pangea in the late Paleozoic.
Incorporating seepage losses into the unsteady streamflow equations for simulating intermittent flow along mountain front streams

[1] Seepage losses along numerous mountain front streams that discharge intermittently onto alluvial fans and piedmont alluvial plains are an important source of groundwater in the Basin and Range Province of the Western United States. Determining the distribution of seepage loss along mountain front streams is important when assessing groundwater resources of the region. Seepage loss along a mountain front stream in northern Nevada was evaluated using a one-dimensional unsteady streamflow model. Seepage loss was incorporated into the spatial derivatives of the streamflow equations. Because seepage loss from streams is dependent on stream depth, wetted perimeter, and streambed properties, a two-dimensional variably saturated flow model was used to develop a series of relations between seepage loss and stream depth for each reach. This method works when streams are separated from groundwater by variably saturated sediment. Two periods of intermittent flow were simulated to evaluate the modeling approach. The model reproduced measured flow and seepage losses along the channel. Seepage loss in the spring of 2000 was limited to the upper reaches on the alluvial plain and totaled 196,000 m3, whereas 64% of the seepage loss in the spring of 2004 occurred at the base of the alluvial plain and totaled 273,000 m3. A greater seepage loss at the base of the piedmont alluvial plain is attributed to increased streambed hydraulic conductivity caused by less armoring of the channel. The modeling approach provides a method for quantifying and distributing seepage loss along mountain front streams that cross alluvial fans or piedmont alluvial plains.
Studies on the composition of egg-white ovomucin

1. Purified ovomucin was isolated as an insoluble glycoprotein complex from thick egg white. 2. A homogeneous glycoprotein, designated α-ovomucin, of molecular weight 210000 and containing N-acetylglucosamine (6.7%, w/w), N-acetylgalactosamine (0.6%, w/w), galactose (1.8%, w/w), mannose (4.6%, w/w), N-acetylneuraminic acid (1.0%, w/w) and sulphate (0.7%, w/w), was isolated from preparations of reduced ovomucin by sedimentation equilibrium in a density gradient of caesium chloride formed in the presence of 4m-guanidine hydrochloride. 3. A carbohydrate-rich fraction, designated β-ovomucin (which is homogeneous by sedimentation-velocity analysis in 5m-guanidine hydrochloride but which is heterogeneous by analytical sedimentation equilibrium in a density gradient of caesium chloride in the presence of 4m-guanidine hydrochloride), containing N-acetylglucosamine (11.0%, w/w), N-acetylgalactosamine (8.7%, w/w), galactose (19.2%, w/w), mannose (4.1%, w/w), N-acetylneuraminic acid (13.8%, w/w) and sulphate (2.7%, w/w), was also obtained from preparations of reduced ovomucin by the density-gradient method. 4. Mild acid hydrolysis of the unfractionated ovomucin complex showed that N-acetylneuraminic acid occupied a terminal position of the oligosaccharide chains. 5. Alkaline β-elimination reactions with the unfractionated ovomucin complex indicated that N-acetylgalactosamine was linked by alkali-labile bonds to hydroxy amino acids.
Some psychoanalytic aspects of group therapy. The psychoanalytic contributions of Leo BERMAN.

These three papers were presented at the Leo Berman Memorial Meeting of the Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute, Joseph J. Michaels reviews Leo Berman's psychiatric and psychoanalytic contributions, which culminated in the application of psychoanalytic group psychology to the disciplines of education, psychiatry, social work, mental health and preventive medicine. Fritz Redl reviews the historical changes taking place in the attitudes of psychoanalysts to group therapy and then discusses some group phenomena that the present psychoanalytic model of personality does not adequately explain, such as contagion, shock and role suction. Sidney Levin compares psycho-analytically oriented group and individual psychotherapy, with special reference to transference, self-exposure, interaction, perception of reality by therapist and patient and the patient as therapist.
Native Bamboo [Arundinaria gigantea (Walter) Muhl., Poaceae] Establishment and Growth after the Removal of an Invasive Non-Native Shrub (Ligustrum sinense Lour., Oleaceae): Implications for Restoration

Abstract Giant cane (Arundinaria gigantea) is a native bamboo species that was once abundant in wetlands and riparian areas throughout the Southeastern United States. As part of an effort to identify competitive-dominant native species that can be utilized to maximize the restoration of riparian ecosystem functions/services and reduce non-native community invasibility, we transplanted cane clump divisions into areas either dominated by or recently cleared of Chinese privet (Ligustrum sinense), an invasive non-native shrub. We quantified cane survival and growth in the presence of privet and other plants including several common invasive non-natives. Removal of mature privet via a cut and paint application of glyphosate herbicide resulted in 100% mortality. Cane survival was high in both the high and low-light conditions provided by the opposing privet treatments. During the first year, there was little cane growth or expansion in either privet treatment. In the second year, cane growth and expansion in th...
Using silicon-germanium mainstream BiCMOS technology for X-band and LMDS (25-30 GHz) microwave applications

The 0.18 /spl mu/m SiGe HBT BiCMOS technology we have developed has found a variety of uses in high-speed digital applications, up to 50 Gb/s (Freeman et al, 2001). This paper focuses on the use and applicability of this mainstream HBT BiCMOS technology for microwave applications, particularly X-band, satellite, and LMDS (20-30 GHz). We discuss the pros and cons relative to the well-known III-V MMIC technology, as well as Si microwave circuits on high-resistivity substrates (SIMMWICs) (Russer, 1998). It is shown that the SiGe BiCMOS technology is widely applicable to microwave technology, with examples such as filters, switches, and VCOs. We also review new technology developments that can be applied to the SiGe BiCMOS technology.
Laser scanning dental probe for endodontic root canal treatment

Complications that arise during endodontic procedures pose serious threats to the long-term integrity and health of the tooth. Potential complexities of root canals include residual pulpal tissue, cracks, mesial-buccal 2 and accessory canals. In the case of a failed root canal, a successful apicoectomy can be jeopardized by isthmuses, accessory canals, and root microfracture. Confirming diagnosis using a small imaging probe would allow proper treatment and prevent retreatment of endodontic procedures. An ultrathin and flexible laser scanning endoscope of 1.2 to 1.6mm outer diameter was used in vitro to image extracted teeth with varied root configurations. Teeth were opened using a conventional bur and high speed drill. Imaging within the opened access cavity clarified the location of the roots where canal filing would initiate. Although radiographs are commonly used to determine the root canal size, position, and shape, the limited 2D image perspective leaves ambiguity that could be clarified if used in conjunction with a direct visual imaging tool. Direct visualization may avoid difficulties in locating the root canal and reduce the number of radiographs needed. A transillumination imaging device with the separated illumination and light collection functions rendered cracks visible in the prepared teeth that were otherwise indiscernible using reflected visible light. Our work demonstrates that a small diameter endoscope with high spatial resolution may significantly increase the efficiency and success of endodontic procedures.
Resource Mobilization in International Social Entrepreneurship: Bricolage as a Mechanism of Institutional Transformation:

International entrepreneurs are often confronted with unfavorable normative, regulatory, and cognitive institutional environments. Those entrepreneurial firms that successfully navigate this uneven...
A Bayesian approach to detecting change points in climatic records

Given distinct climatic periods in the various facets of the Earth's climate system, many attempts have been made to determine the exact timing of ‘change points’ or regime boundaries. However, identification of change points is not always a simple task. A time series containing N data points has approximately Nk distinct placements of k change points, rendering brute force enumeration futile as the length of the time series increases. Moreover, how certain are we that any one placement of change points is superior to the rest? This paper introduces a Bayesian Change Point algorithm which provides uncertainty estimates both in the number and location of change points through an efficient probabilistic solution to the multiple change point problem. To illustrate its versatility, the Bayesian Change Point algorithm is used to analyse both the NOAA/NCDC annual global surface temperature anomalies time series and the much longer δ18O record of the Plio-Pleistocene. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Quantum Sieving in Carbon Nanotubes and Zeolites

Fluids adsorbed in microporous materials can exhibit quantum sieving, where heavy isotopes are preferentially adsorbed over light isotopes. We present the first detailed predictions of quantum sieving based on realistic models of microporous materials. Carbon nanotubes, and the interstices of nanotube bundles, can act as highly effective quantum sieves for hydrogen isotopes. Quantum sieving of He and Ne in the zeolite ${\mathrm{AlPO}}_{4}\ensuremath{-}22$ is also discussed.
The determination of boron in solution to sub-p.p.b. concentrations by hollow-cathode emission

Abstract The determination of boron in solutions to sub-p.p.b. concentrations by hollow-cathode emission is demonstrated. The effects of cathode material, clean-up procedure, fill gas, and tube current were investigated to determine the conditions yielding optimal sensitivity. The boron atomic line emission is 200 times as intense as boron oxide band emission.
Specific role of mitochondrial electron transport in blood-stage Plasmodium falciparum

The origin of all mitochondria can be traced to the symbiotic arrangement that resulted in the emergence of eukaryotes in a world that was exclusively populated by prokaryotes. This arrangement, however, has been in continuous genetic flux: the varying degrees of gene loss and transfer from the mitochondrial genome in different eukaryotic lineages seem to signify an ongoing 'conflict' between the host and the symbiont. Eukaryotic parasites belonging to the phylum Apicomplexa provide an excellent example to support this view. These organisms contain the smallest mitochondrial genomes known, with an organization that differs among various genera; one genus, Cryptosporidium, seems to have lost the entire mitochondrial genome. Here we show that erythrocytic stages of the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum seem to maintain an active mitochondrial electron transport chain to serve just one metabolic function: regeneration of ubiquinone required as the electron acceptor for dihydroorotate dehydrogenase, an essential enzyme for pyrimidine biosynthesis. Transgenic P. falciparum parasites expressing Saccharomyces cerevisiae dihydroorotate dehydrogenase, which does not require ubiquinone as an electron acceptor, were completely resistant to inhibitors of mitochondrial electron transport. Maintenance of mitochondrial membrane potential, however, was essential in these parasites, as indicated by their hypersensitivity to proguanil, a drug that collapsed the membrane potential in the presence of electron transport inhibitors. Thus, acquisition of just one enzyme can render mitochondrial electron transport nonessential in erythrocytic stages of P. falciparum.
Aggregate polishing resistance pre-evaluation

Current methods of pre-evaluation of aggregates for bituminous surface courses such as the British Pendulum and British Polishing Wheel and chemical or mineralogical methods are only able to identify clearly aggregates with a high probability of performing well. There is little agreement among researchers as to what engineering properties will provide adequate frictional resistance at various average daily traffic (ADT) levels. The lack of agreement has led to conservative polish-resistance specifications and subsequently higher pavement costs. The Tennessee Textural Retention Method (TTRM) uses single size aggregate (6.35 to 9.52 mm), the Los Angeles Abrasion device, and a modified version of the AASHTO TP 33 device to evaluate particle shape and texture throughout simulated aging. In this evaluation, using 25 Tennessee aggregates, the TTRM was used to characterize aggregate polish-resistance performance at various ADT levels by comparing the results obtained on other aggregates with the results from fie...
Evaluating and planning for interdisciplinary collection development: a case of an East Asian collection at the College of Staten Island Library

Purpose – The purpose of this article is to examine the challenges of collection analysis and development in response to a new academic interdisciplinary program in East Asian Studies at the College of Staten Island, City University of New York. Design/methodology/approach – First, the authors examined the needs of a new East Asian Studies program and its interdisciplinary nature. Next, an automated collection development tool was chosen that provides a snapshot of current monograph holdings and a comparison with other equivalent institutions. Lastly, the authors conduct an analysis of citations in key Asian Studies journals, library holdings in relevant top electronic resources and core journal subscriptions. For future collection building, vendor tools and patron-drive acquisitions are explored. Findings – Traditional methods of collection development can prove inadequate. A variety of tools and methods need to be used to guarantee adequate results. Originality/value – This paper builds on prior researc...
Pipette-friendly laminar flow patterning for cell-based assays

Laminar flow patterning (LFP) is a characteristic method of microfluidic systems that allows two (or more) different solutions to flow side-by-side in a channel without convective mixing. This fluid behavior can be used to pattern cell suspensions, particles, and treatments as well as to create chemical gradients. LFP is typically implemented using syringe pumps and, for this reason, is most effective in constant flow scenarios such as long-term gradient generation. However, the complexity of using syringe pumps for patterning cell suspensions typically makes it a less attractive option than other standard patterning methods. We present a passive microfluidic method that enables short-term LFP of multiple fluids using a single pipette and allows each sample to be loaded in any sequence, at any point in time relative to one another. The proposed method is well-suited for cell-based assays, reduces the complexity of LFP to be on a similar level as other cell patterning methods, can be scaled to include more than two streams of fluid, and enables arrays of individually addressable devices for LFP on a single chip.
Optimal design of a subsurface redox barrier

Harmful contaminants such as chromium (Cr{sup +6}), and TCE can be removed from groundwater by reactions with reduced subsurface sediments. Establishing an in situ Fe(II) barrier through the reduction of soil-bound Fe(III) to Fe(II) by injecting a sodium dithionite (Na{sub 2}S{sub 2}O{sub 4}) solution is studied. Critical to this problem is the possible formation and expansion of a zone around the injection, where all the soil-bound Fe(III) is reduced to Fe(II). Different reaction models apply inside and outside of this zone so that a determination of this moving boundary is a fundamental part of the solution. The complete analytic solution to this problem was used to develop optimal process parameters, such as injection rate and operational time, that maximize the radius of the Fe(III)-reduced zone when a given mass of sodium dithionite is injected at a well. When a large reduction [>63% of initially present Fe(III)] is desired, the results indicate that it is better to use a low flow rate to form a Fe(III)-free zone around the injection. The opposite is true for smaller reductions (<63%), so that a faster injection rate that avoids the formation of the Fe(III)-free zone yields a larger reduction zone.
Image partition regularity of affine transformations

If u,[email protected]?N, A is a uxv matrix with entries from Q, and b->@?Q^u, then (A,b->) determines an affine transformation from Q^v to Q^u by x->@?Ax->+b->. In 1933 and 1943 Richard Rado determined precisely when such transformations are kernel partition regular over N, Z, or Q, meaning that whenever the nonzero elements of the relevant set are partitioned into finitely many cells, there is some element of the kernel of the transformation with all of its entries in the same cell. In 1993 the first author and Imre Leader determined when such transformations with b->[email protected]? are image partition regular over N, meaning that whenever N is partitioned into finitely many cells, there is some element of the image of the transformation with all of its entries in the same cell. In this paper we characterize the image partition regularity of such transformations over N, Z, or Q for arbitrary b->.
Ontogeny and Line Differences in the Mitogenic Response of Chicken Lymphocytes

Abstract Ontogeny of mitogen response was studied using Regional Poultry Research Laboratory lines 6 and 7 and Cornell lines JM-N and -P chickens over a 30-week experimental period. Purified lymphocyte assay and sequential monitoring with whole-blood assay show lines 6 and N to be low responders compared to lines 7 and P, respectively. The difference in phytohemagglutinin (PHA) response between lines 6 and 7 increased with age, whereas that between lines N and P remained consistent for all ages. An association seems to exist between the low PHA responsiveness of lines 6 and N and resistance to Marek's disease (MD), a lymphoproliferative disease caused by MD virus in susceptible chickens. The fact that lines 6 and 7 have the same B2 -haplotype but differ in PHA response seems to substantiate the evidence by others that the genetic control of PHA response is not linked to the Ea-B locus of the MHC complex. This does not preclude, however, the possibility that the response of lines N and P is MHC-linked.
Immunodominance of HIV-1-specific CD8+ T-cell responses in acute HIV-1 infection: at the crossroads of viral and host genetics

The development of HIV-1-specific CD8 + T-cell responses during acute HIV-1 infection is associated with a dramatic decline in HIV-1 replication and the resolution of the acute retroviral syndrome. These HIV-1-specific CD8 + T cells typically target a small number of viral epitopes in a distinct hierarchical order, and high-level viremia in chronic progressive infection leads to broadly diversified HIV-1-specific CD8 + T-cell responses with a less clear immunodominance pattern. It is argued here that the specific hierarchical pattern of immune responses in acute HIV-1 infection is the result of a tightly regulated process that, among other factors, is critically impacted by the kinetics of viral protein expression, the HLA class I background of the infected individual and the autologous sequence of the infecting virus.
Education and changing reproductive behavior in Ghana.

This study employs recent data from the 1988 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey to assess earlier speculation of fertility change in Ghana. The findings are cautiously optimistic. Although there is little evidence to support any hypothesis of a fertility turnaround in Ghana, there is some indication that continued increases in the proportion of women with some secondary education may yet induce a fertility transition in Ghana.
State Infrastructural Power: Approaches to Conceptualization and Measurement

Michael Mann’s infrastructural power is a concept often applied but rarely rigorously conceptualized and precisely measured. Three distinct analytical lenses of infrastructural power can be derived from his definitions: infrastructural power as the capabilities of the central state, as the territorial reach of the state, and as the effects of the state on society. Exemplary texts applying each of these approaches are used to demonstrate their connection to Mann’s ideas, the relationships between these dimensions, and the boundaries between this and other aspects of the state’s strength. Moving from conceptualization to measurement, the paper shows the costs of common errors in the measurement of infrastructural power, and develops guidelines for its proper empirical application.
Posterior spinal fusion in patients with Ehlers–Danlos syndrome: a report of six cases

Purpose There is a paucity of literature describing posterior spinal fusion (PSF) in the Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (EDS) patient. The vast majority of these studies diagnosed EDS clinically. The purpose of this study is to discuss the management and complications of EDS patients with scoliosis treated with PSF at a single institution.
Transonic flutter and response analyses of two 3-degree-of-freedom airfoils

Flutter and time-response analyses are performed for a NACA 64A006 conventional and a MBB A-3 supercritical airfoil, both oscillating with plunge, pitch, and aileron pitch degrees-of-freedom (DOF's) in smalldisturbance transonic flow. The aerodynamic coefficients are calculated using the transonic code LTRAN2NLR. The effects of various kinds of aeroelastic parameters on flutter speeds for the bending-torsion, bendingaileron, and torsion-aileron branches are studied. The flutter speeds associated with the bending-torsion branch are plotted against Mach number for different parameter values and the transonic dip phenomenon is demonstrated. To study the flutter modes, the flutter speed, amplitude ratio, and phase difference at different Mach numbers are plotted against the mass ratio for both a 2DOF and a 3DOF case. Time-response results are obtained for the NACA 64A006 and the MBB A-3 airfoils at M=Q.85 and 0.765, respectively. Based on the same sets of parameter values, the flight speeds used to obtain all the neutrally stable responses are very close to the flutter speeds obtained in the flutter analysis. The principle of linear superposition of airloads is used in the flutter analysis, but not in the response analysis.
Nitrous Oxide Control in the Dental Operatory: Auxiliary Exhaust and Mask Leakage, Design, and Scavenging Flow Rate as Factors

Two new local exhaust systems, intended primarily to control patient mouth emissions of N2O, were installed in a dental operatory, and resulting exposure concentrations to dental personnel were observed. The exposures were found to be typically unaffected by the presence and operation of these new controls. Laboratory testing on a head form, in conjunction with the operatory observations, established that mask leakage due to poor fit was the primary cause of N2O emissions. An improved mask fit and the addition of a slotted skirt around the outer mask shell individually resulted in greatly reduced leakage rates in the laboratory tests. Also, exhaust systems placed on the chin, on the chest, or in the mouth proved effective in capturing mouth emissions simulated by a breathing machine and head form.
Er:YAG laser ablation of tissue: Measurement of ablation rates

The ablation of both soft and hard tissue using the normal-spiking-mode Er:YAG laser has been quantified by measuring the number of pulses needed to perforate a measured thickness of tissue. Bone is readily ablated by 2.94 microns radiation; however, at per pulse fluences greater than 20 J/cm2, plasma formation decreases ablation efficiency. At low fluence, desiccation can prevent efficient ablation of bone. The ablation efficiency for aorta and skin is higher than for bone. The ablation efficiency, 540 micrograms/J, and the ablation depth per pulse, greater than 400 microns, for skin are too high to be readily explained by simple models of ablation and thus provide evidence for a more complex explosive removal process.
Spin polarization asymmetry at the surface of chromia

We demonstrate boundary spin polarization at the surface of a Cr2O3 single crystal using spin-polarized low-energy electron microscopy (SPLEEM), complementing prior spin polarized photoemission, spin polarized inverse photoemission, and x-ray magnetic circular dichroism photoemission electron microscopy measurements. This work shows that placing a Cr2O3 single crystal into a single domain state will result in net Cr2O3 spin polarization at the boundary, even in the presence of a gold overlayer. There are indications that the SPLEEM contrast for the two polarization states may be different, consistent with scanning tunneling microscopy spectroscopy results obtained from ultrathin films of Cr2O3.
Comparative structure, proximal promoter elements, and chromosome location of the human eosinophil major basic protein genes.

Human eosinophil major basic protein (MBP) is strongly implicated as a mediator of disease, especially bronchial asthma. We recently isolated a highly divergent human homologue of MBP (MBPH). Given human MBP's importance in disease and the restricted expression of it and human MBPH, we isolated the 4.6-kb human MBPH gene (HGMW-approved symbol PRG3). Comparisons among the human MBP (PRG2), human MBPH, and murine MBP-1 (mMBP-1; Prg2) genes suggest that the human MBP and mMBP-1 genes are more closely related than either is to the human MBPH gene. Proximal promoters of these three genes show conservation of potential binding sites for IK2 and STAT and of a known GATA site. However, a known C/EBP site is altered in the human MBPH gene's proximal promoter. The human MBP and MBPH genes localized to chromosome 11 in the centromere to 11q12 region. Thus, the human MBP and MBPH genes have diverged considerably, probably following a gene duplication event. Furthermore, the identified conserved and distinct proximal promoter elements likely contribute to the eosinophil-restricted and relatively reduced transcription of the human MBPH gene.
Modeling hierarchical structure of images with stochastic grammars

We construct a hierarchical image grammar model based on stochastic grammars and apply it to document images. An efficient maximum a posteriori probability estimation algorithm for this model produces accurate segmentations of document images and classifications of image parts.
Structure and Thermodynamics of Carbon and Carbon/Silicon Precursors to Nanostructures

The structures at the Hartree−Fock level, as well as the energetics, are reported for the unsaturated system C36H16, its Si-doped analogue C32Si4H16, and several smaller, unsaturated fragments. Structural effects on the electronic distribution are discussed in terms of a localized orbital energy decomposition. The standard heats of formation are calculated based on homodesmic and isodesmic reactions and the G2(MP2,SVP) method with a valence double-ζ plus polarization basis. The origin of the observed explosion of the all-carbon system (C36H16) to form carbon nanotubes was investigated by exploring a possible initial reactive channel (dimerization), which could lead to the formation of the observed onion-type nanostructures.
Gastroesophageal reflux: a potential asthma trigger

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is a potential trigger of asthma. Approximately 77% of asthmatics report heartburn. GER is a risk factor for asthma-related hospitalization and oral steroid burst use. Asthmatics may be predisposed to GER development because of a high prevalence of hiatal hernia and autonomic dysregulation and an increased pressure gradient between the abdominal cavity and the thorax, over-riding the lower esophageal sphincter pressure barrier. Asthma medications may potentiate GER. Potential mechanisms of esophageal acid-induced bronchoconstriction include a vagally mediated reflex, local axonal reflexes, heightened bronchial reactivity, and microaspiration, all resulting in neurogenic inflammation. Anti-reflux therapy improves asthma symptoms in approximately 70% of asthmatics with GER. A 3-month empiric trial of twice-daily proton pump inhibitor given 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast and dinner can identify asthmatics who have GER as a trigger of their asthma.
The Third Presence: A Psychiatrist’s Experience of Working with Non-English Speaking Patients and Interpreters:

Communicating therapeutically with patients who do not share the same language as the clinician is a problem that is likely to increase as healthcare workers attempt to provide more and better services to immigrants and refugees. Based on participant observation, this article considers how working with patients who do not share the doctor’s language, and the ‘third presence’ of an interpreter, influence three core tasks of a healing performance: establishing a basis of trust, understanding the patient’s problems, and trying to make a difference.
Chemical synthesis of scyllo-inosamine and catabolism studies in Sinorhizobium meliloti

Rhizopines such as scyllo-inosamine (SIA) and L-3-O-methyl-scyllo-inosamine (3-O-MSI) play an intricate role as nutritional mediators during the establishment of the symbiotic relationship between legumes and rhizobia. The mechanism of action is not well understood. One challenge is the availability of rhizopines, which occur in only minute amounts in plant nodules. We herewith report an efficient synthesis of scyllo-inosamine and its biochemical activity in specific bacteria. SIA was prepared in 7 steps and 32% overall yield from readily available myo-inositol. The chemically synthesized SIA was tested to determine whether it can serve as sole carbon and nitrogen source for Sinorhizobium meliloti wild-type strain L5-30 and for strains carrying mutations in the rhizopine degradation (moc) genes. The analysis of the phenotype of the mutant strains revealed that the moc genes previously shown to be essential for the breakdown of the rhizopines isolated from root nodules are also essential for the utilization of the chemically synthesized SIA.
Primitive rings with involution and pivotal monomials

With the aid of ultrafilters an example is constructed of a primitive ring with involution and zero socle in which the symmetric elementsS satisfys2c=s,c depending on and commuting withs (thusS satisfies the pivotal monomialx). However, by suitably restricting the definition of generalized pivotal monomial (essentially by making the variables linear) it is shown that a primitive ring with involution has nonzero socle if and only if the symmetric elements satisfy a restricted GPM.
Spectroscopic Studies of Fullerene Aggregates

The growth and structure of fullerene (C60 and C70) aggregates in single and binary mixed-solvent solutions were examined by light scattering and photoluminescence spectroscopy. Solute aggregation exhibiting reaction-limited kinetics was observed to occur over a period of several days in ∼1 mM C60 solutions in benzene. Aggregation was irreversible and could be suppressed by addition of a soluble radical scavenger, suggesting a radical mechanism for aggregate formation. Dynamic light scattering measurements determined that the aggregates attain a hydrodynamic radius of ∼300 nm before sedimentation occurs. Solutions containing stable suspensions of fullerene aggregates were also prepared by addition of a poor solvent to a solution of fullerene in a strong solvent. Both static and dynamic light scattering methods were used to determine the mass, hydrodynamic radius, radius of gyration, and fractal dimension of the aggregates. Photoluminescence spectra of aggregates were compared with those of the crystalline...
X-RAY DIFFRACTION OF N-PARAFFINS AND STACKED AROMATIC MOLECULES: INSIGHTS INTO THE STRUCTURE OF PETROLEUM ASPHALTENES

ABSTRACT X-ray diffraction investigation of normal paraffins and Debye internal interference calculations on stacks of aromatic molecules are used to make inferences about the structure of petroleum asphaltenes. The gamma band, a broad peak near 4.5 A, is associated with weakly ordered paraffins. Stacks of aromatic molecules can give rise to diffraction peaks at d value higher than that of the “(002)” line. X-ray diffraction of the liquids n-hexadecane, decalin, perhydro-fluorene, 1,3 dimethyladamantane, and 1-methyl naphthalene confirms the above insights and demonstrates that diffraction can distinguish among the organic structural types “paraffinic,” “naphthenic,” and “aromatic.”
Determination of 3,3′-Dichlorobenzidine and its degradation products in environmental samples with a small low-field Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer

3,3′-Dichlorobenzidine (DCB) and its degradation products, 3-chlorobenzidine (MCB) and benzidine, are of environmental concern because of their carcinogenic nature. The suitability of a small Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (FT-ICR) mass spectrometer for the analysis of these environmental contaminants in different types of matrices was explored. All the measurements were carried out by depositing the sample solution directly on a disk that was introduced into the mass spectrometer. This approach is very fast and simple because it requires no prior chromatographic separation or derivatization. Calibration curves determined by collecting 70-eV electron ionization mass spectra of neat samples yielded lower limits of detection of 29 and 17 pg (total amount on the solids probe) for DCB and benzidine, respectively (based on a signal to noise ratio of ≥2:1), while chemical ionization with ammonia resulted in lower limits of detection of 21 pg for DCB and 9 pg for benzidine (total amount on the solids probe). FT-ICR analysis of sediments collected from Lake Macatawa (Holland, MI) verified the presence of DCB in this complex, environmentally significant sample matrix. Laboratory experiments designed to probe biodegradation and photodegradation pathways showed that DCB undergoes sequential dehalogenation to yield MCB and then benzidine under exposure to microorganisms and under simulated tropospheric solar radiation. The ability of the FT-ICR to determine elemental compositions of compounds introduced as described above was demonstrated for one of the degradation products.
An Empirically Developed Fourier Series Model for Describing Software Failures

The times between failures of a large software system, between any two program fixes, need not be s-independently and exponentially distributed, as has often been assumed. In several instances such times between failures occur in clusters, often systematically, and we present some data to substantiate this claim. We propose an empirically developed Fourier series model which can adequately describe our data, and which under certain circumstances can be used to predict future failures. Much of the analysis is informal, and the key tool that we use to develop our approach is a spectrogram of the data. We emphnsize data analysis rather than statistical inference in this paper, and thus, we have not performed any formal tests (such as analysis of variance, s-significance testing, or goodness of fit) for assessing the adequacy of the fitted models. A reason for not doing this is that the available tests are frequentist in nature and to these one of us (NDS) has philosophic objections.
FISCAL DECENTRALIZATION AND INTERGOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS: AN ANALYSIS OF FEDERAL VERSUS STATE EDUCATION FINANCE IN MEXICO

While decentralization is on the forefront of the reform agenda of many developing countries, few studies have performed empirical analysis to provide a holistic picture of the important fiscal, efficiency, and equity issues. Specifically, decentralization nearly always involves fiscal and administrative decisions by both national and sub-national governments, as well as intricate intergovernmental relations. Here, two empirical models are presented for the Mexican primary and secondary education sector. The first analyzes the efficiency-equity trade-off implicit the Mexican Federal Government's educational fiscal transfers to states. Unlike most similar analyses, this model analyzes the distribution of outcomes not simply expenditures. The second model analyzes the relative productivity of separate expenditures by the Federal and state governments before Mexico's recent educational decentralization legislation. The findings show that before the decentralization, the Federal Government exhibited some concern for equity, but that in doing so also treated states unequally according to criteria that have little to do with either efficiency or equity. In addition, the results show that the Federal Government may indeed have been the more efficient provider of primary and secondary education, raising concern for the fiscal and administrative relationship set up by the decentralization legislation: the Federal Government will continue to pay, while the states have gained relative autonomy over expenditures.