cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ultrasensitive and selective measurements of tin by adsorptive stripping voltammetry of the tin-tropolone complex.

Trace levels of tin can be determined by voltammetry after controlled adsorptive preconcentration of the tin—tropolone complex on a hanging mercury drop electrode. The resulting adsorptive stripping procedure offers better sensitivity and selectivity than conventional stripping methods for tin. Optimal conditions include 4 × 10−6M tropolone in a stirred acetate buffer (pH 4.0), a preconcentration potential of −0.40 V, and differential-pulse stripping. For an 8-min preconcentration period, the detection limit is 2.3 × 10−10M (28 ng/l.). Linear calibration plots of ip vs. C are obtained at low concentrations, with linear plots of 1/ipvs. 1/C at high concentrations. The relative standard deviation (at the 6-μg/1. level) is 2.6%. The response is not affected by the presence of lead, cadmium, indium and thallium, which commonly interfere severely in analogous anodic stripping measurements. Results are reported for river and orange-juice samples.
The effect of abortion costs on adoption in the USA

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to empirically estimate the effect the costs of an abortion have on the supply of infants relinquished for adoption in the USA.Design/methodology/approach – This paper, using pooled time‐series cross‐section state data, over the years 1982, 1992, and 2000, empirically estimates an adoption supply equation based on the rational choice economic model of fertility.Findings – The empirical results find that increases in the price of an abortion and the enforcement of a Parental Involvement Law decrease the number of infants available for adoption in a state. States that do not fund Medicaid abortions do not have higher rates of infant relinquishment.Research limitations/implications – One implication of the results in this paper is that to have an abortion or relinquish an infant for adoption are not considered to be substitutes by women with unwanted pregnancies and that for poor women with unwanted pregnancies either an abortion or raising an infant is preferable to re...
Dr. Ignaz Philip Semmelweis

Handwashing is a staple of modern medical practice. However, this has not always been the case. Before the germ theory of disease was well known, it was common practice to examine patient after patient without the use of gloves or a strong disinfectant. When an obstetrician/gynecologist named Semmelweis started to examine why his maternity ward had such a high mortality rate, he made a discovery that later became the foundation for aseptic practice.
Plasma densities in the Jovian magnetosphere: Plasma slingshot or Maxwell demon?

Abstract The plasma density distribution in the Earth's magnetosphere is described and the principal factors producing this distribution are discussed. These are diffusion of the ionospheric thermal plasma inside the plasmapause, and ejection of terrestrial plasma and injection of solar wind plasma beyond the plasmapause. For Jupiter, the ionospheric thermal plasma cannot escape into the magnetosphere and the density distribution is dominated by diffusion of photoelectrons at low L values, and interchange instabilities at larger distances (beyond about 8RJ). These cause ejection of Jovian plasma from the body of the magnetosphere and injection of solar wind plasma. The latter is a probable source of the energetic electrons needed to produce the decimetric emission.
Aggregate demand shocks and economic growth

Abstract The traditional view of growth and fluctuations implies that aggregate demand shocks result in only transitory departures from trend or “normal” output, which is determined exclusively by aggregate supply factors. Using a simple dynamic framework for a less-developed economy, a series of models is developed to show that aggregate demand can have a permanent effect on economic growth. It is shown that even if the economy converges to some “normal” path, this path itself may be altered by large demand shocks, due to increasing returns and hysteresis effects in labor markets and balance of payments constraints. It is also shown that the economy may not converge to its “normal” path, in which case fiscal and monetary policy will have long-term effects on output and growth.
Successful intrathecal administration of methotrexate following a prior adverse reaction to intravenous methotrexate

Abstract Rationale Adverse reactions to methotrexate are increasingly common and represent potential barriers to treatment options for oncologic diseases. There are no reports in the literature addressing intrathecal administration of methotrexate following adverse reactions to intravenous methotrexate. Methods A 6 year old, male patient developed hives and pruritus after intravenous infusion of 2 gm of methotrexate for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia as well as concomitant morphine infusion. Skin testing to methotrexate (skin prick 1 mg/ml, 10 mg/ml, intradermal 0.1 mg/ml, 1 mg/ml, 10 mg/ml) was negative. The patient required treatment with intrathecal methotrexate. Since the safety of intrathecal administration of methotrexate following desensitization is unknown, further assessment of the patient's sensitivity to methotrexate was determined by graded challenge (10% dose followed by 90% dose) in the Intensive Care Unit. Following two successful intravenous infusions, methotrexate was infused intrathecally, first with steroid pretreatment, then without steroid pretreatment. Results The patient tolerated the graded challenge to methotrexate and subsequent full dose infusions of methotrexate without complications, indicating no hypersensitivity to methotrexate. Methotrexate was subsequently administered intrathecally with steroid pretreatment followed by subsequent intrathecal infusions without steroid pretreatment. No adverse events occurred. Conclusions A combination of history, skin testing, and graded challenge may be utilized to elucidate the nature of adverse reactions to methotrexate. This information may help determinine the safety of future treatment options with methotrexate, including intrathecal administration.
Two feminized male American Indians.

Two American Indian males are described who wish to change sex. Both appear to be anatornically normal; one is a monozygotic twin. In both cases, feminine identification began very early in life. In both cases, there were early acceptance and positive reinforcement of the feminine behavior. These two males and the environment in which they live are contrasted with the anthropological literature published decades ago describing the unique Indian tribal role played by feminized males.
Physiologic studies on swaddling: an ancient child care practice, which may promote the supine position for infant sleep.

Objective: The calming effects of swaddling may help infants accept back sleeping and so reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome. We hypothesized that swaddling, with minimal leg restraint, would be accepted by postneonatal infants with minimal respiratory effects. Study design: Postneonatal infants (n = 37)were studied for the introduction of swaddling. Four infants were studied by using traditional swaddling techniques. Swaddle tightness was increased in 13 infants, simulating traditional swaddles. Respiratory variables—respiratory rate, tidal volume, oxygen saturation, heart rate, sigh rate, and “grunting”—were measured. Results: Hips were flexed and abducted in the swaddle. The majority of infants accepted swaddling while supine, including 78% of infants who slept prone at home. Acceptance decreased with increasing age. With increased swaddle pressure, respiratory rate increased during quiet sleep (P <.05). In rapid eye movement sleep, a slight effect on heart rate was observed (P <.05). Other variables did not change. Conclusions: Older infants including usual prone sleepers generally accept a form of swaddling that has minimal respiratory effects. The reintroduction of swaddling, without restricting hip movement or chest wall excursion, combined with supine sleeping, may promote further sudden infant death syndrome reduction. (J Pediatr 2002;141:398-404)
Accuracy of Point-of-Care Ultrasonography for Diagnosis of Elbow Fractures in Children

Study objective We determine the test performance characteristics for point-of-care ultrasonography performed by pediatric emergency physicians compared with radiographic diagnosis of elbow fractures and compare interobserver agreement between enrolling physicians and an experienced pediatric emergency medicine sonologist. Methods This was a prospective study of children aged up to 21 years and presenting to the emergency department (ED) with elbow injuries requiring radiographs. Before obtaining radiographs, pediatric emergency physicians performed focused elbow ultrasonography. An ultrasonographic result positive for fracture at the elbow was defined as the pediatric emergency physician's determination of an elevated posterior fat pad or lipohemarthrosis of the posterior fat pad. All patients received an elbow radiograph in the ED and clinical follow-up. The criterion standard for fracture was fracture on initial or follow-up radiographs. Results One hundred thirty patients with a mean age of 7.5 years were enrolled by 26 sonologists. Forty-three (33%) patients had a radiograph result positive for fracture. A positive elbow ultrasonographic result had a sensitivity of 98% (95% confidence interval [CI] 88% to 100%), specificity of 70% (95% CI 60% to 79%), positive likelihood ratio of 3.3 (95% CI 2.4 to 4.5), and negative likelihood ratio of 0.03 (95% CI 0.01 to 0.23) for fracture. The interobserver agreement (κ) was 0.77. The use of elbow ultrasonography would reduce radiographs in 48% of patients but would miss 1 fracture. Conclusion Point-of-care ultrasonography is highly sensitive for elbow fractures, and a negative ultrasonographic result may reduce the need for radiographs in children with elbow injuries. Elbow ultrasonography may be useful in settings in which radiography is not readily accessible or is time consuming to obtain.
Multicomponent model of deformation and detachment of a biofilm under fluid flow

A novel biofilm model is described which systemically couples bacteria, extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and solvent phases in biofilm. This enables the study of contributions of rheology of individual phases to deformation of biofilm in response to fluid flow as well as interactions between different phases. The model, which is ba sed on first and second laws of thermodynamics, is derived using an energetic variational approach and phase-field method. Phase-field coupling is used to model structural changes of a biofilm. A newly developed unconditionally energy-stable numerical splitting scheme is implemented for computing the numerical solution of the model efficiently. Model simulations predict biofilm cohesive failure for the flow velocity between O(10 � 3 )andO(10 � 2 )ms 21 whichisconsistentwithexperiments.SimulationspredictbiofilmdeformationresultingintheformationofstreamersforEPS exhibiting a viscous-dominated mechanical response and the viscosity of EPS being less than O(10)kgm � 1 s � 1 . Higher EPS viscosity provides biofilm with greater resistance to deformation and to removal by the flow. Moreover, simulations show that higher EPS elasticity yields the formation of streamers with complex geometriesthatare more prone to detachment.Thesemodelpredictions are shown to be in qualitative agreement with experimental observations.
A correlation of alpha-smooth muscle actin and invasion in micronodular basal cell carcinoma.

Background. Actin is largely responsible for cell motility and is only sparsely found in normal epithelial cells. An altered expression of actin in some malignancies may facilitate aggressive invasion. Micronodular basal cell carcinoma (BCC) has been shown to require more surgical stages, wider tissue margins, and deeper defects for extirpation during Mohs micrographic surgery relative to nodular BCC. Objective. To provide preliminary data regarding a possible correlation between alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression within the cells or stroma of micronodular BCC and aggressive invasion. In addition, the incidence of α-SMA expression in micronodular, morpheaform, and nodular BCC is evaluated. Methods. Nine micronodular basal cell carcinomas (7 primary, 2 recurrent) were evaluated for neural invasion, depth of tissue invasion, and alpha smooth muscle actin antibodies. The presence of alpha-smooth muscle actin antibodies was assessed using immunoperoxidase staining and compared with 13 morpheaform (13 primary, 0 recurrent) and 12 nodular (12 primary, 0 recurrent). Results. Six of the nine micronodular (67%), eight of the 13 morpheaform (62%), and 0 of the 12 nodular (0%) BCCs stained positive for α-SMA. Of the six micronodular BCCs that stained positive for α-SMA, three invaded the fascia or muscle and three displayed neural invasion. In contrast, of the three micronodular BCCs that stained negative for α-SMA, none invaded the fascia or muscle and only one exhibited neural invasion. Conclusion. Actin was present in 66% of micronodular, 62% of morpheaform, and 0% of nodular BCC. The presence of actin in micronodular BCC may be a marker for aggressive invasion.
Oral immunization of mice with temperature-sensitive Pseudomonas aeruginosa enhances pulmonary clearance of the wild-type

DBA/2J mice were immunized daily for 3 days per os with 108–109 colony forming units (c.f.u.) of two different temperature-sensitive (TS) mutants of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. At varying times after the final immunization the animals were exposed to aerosols of the parental immunotype 1, and the ability of the immunized and control mice to clear their lungs of the wild-type (WT) challenge was measured 4 h later. The number of c.f.u. remaining in the lungs of mice immunized with one mutant, D/1/8, was significantly less (p < 0.01) than the number remaining in the lungs of control mice and mice immunized with a second TS mutant, E/9/9.
Repressor cleavage as a prophage induction mechanism: Hypersensitivity of a mutant λ cI protein to RecA-mediated proteolysis

Abstract λcIinds prophage is hypersensitive to derepression by ultraviolet-irradiation. We have utilized this mutant to test current models for prophage derepression. We find that cIinds repressor is cleaved by RecA protein in vivo at lower ultraviolet doses and with more rapid kinetics than cI+ repressor, and that induction of the recA8 gene or other LexA-repressed genes is not required for cleavage. Our results support the concept that RecA-directed proteolysis is the primary mechanism for prophage derepression.
Cell-cycle specific cytotoxicity mediated by stizophyllin (2α,3β,12β-trihydroxypregna-4,7,16-trien-20-one), a novel electrophilic pregnane isolated from Stizophyllum riparium

Abstract A structurally-novel pregnane derivative, 2α,3β,12β-trihydroxypregna-4,7,16-trien-20-one (stizophyllin), was isolated from an extract of Stizophyllum riparium (H.B.K.) Sandw. on the basis of bioactivity-guided fractionation and confirmed to mediate a potent cytotoxic response with cultured P-388 cells. We presently report a detailed isolation procedure and the results of studies designed to examine its mechanism of action. By means of a Michael-type addition, stizophyllin formed adducts with nucleophilic substances such as l -cysteine and β-mercaptoethanol. The adduct with β-mercaptoethanol was isolated, structurally characterized, and found to be 20-fold less cytotoxic than stizophyllin. Stizophyllin interacted with DNA, but no mutagenicity was observed with Salmonella typhimurium strain TM677 or cultured Chinese hamster ovary cells, and no in vitro reaction occurred with guanosine. Relative to control cell cultures, the total biosynthesis of DNA, RNA or protein was reduced when P-388 cells were treated with stizophyllin. However, the cell number did not increase in the presence of inhibitory stizophyllin concentrations (e.g., 4 μg/ml), and the DNA content (per cell) actually doubled after approximately 48 h. Consistent with this, stizophyllin blocked the cells in the G2 + M compartment of the cycle, and the block appeared to be specific for the G2 phase. Accordingly, stizophyllin did not modulate in vitro tubulin polymerization reactions nor did it affect the morphology of dibutyryl cAMP-treated astrocytoma cells in culture. These data suggest that the cytotoxic activity of stizophyllin is mediated by covalent reaction with a cellular component (such as a sulfhydryl-containing protein) by means of a Michael-type addition. Based on the cell-cycle specificity of the response, it appears that this interaction prevents the cells from progressing through mitosis.
Sulfur dioxide and other cloud-related gases as the source of the microwave opacity of the middle atmosphere of Venus

Spacecraft radio occultation measurements imply the presence of a nonuniformly mixed gaseous absorber within, but mostly below, the main cloud layer of sulfuric acid-water droplets measured by Pioneer-Venus. Preliminary considerations of the amount, distribution, and effects of sulfur dioxide and other gases, which apparently are associated with and produce the cloud, indicate that they constitute an important, and probably the predominant, source of the observed microwave opacity of the middle atmosphere of Venus.
Ken Stevens, motor theory, and infant MEG brain data

ASA meetings provided a special time to talk to Ken Stevens and share data and opinions about topics of mutual interest. On one of these occasions, Ken uttered a sentence that stuck with me, “I hate to tell you this, but I think I’m becoming a motor theorist!” He then explained Analysis by Synthesis. In this talk, I’ll share newly published MEG brain data (Kuhl et al., PNAS, 2014), suggesting that young infants may indeed be engaging in something like analysis by synthesis as they listen to us speak. I'll use this and other findings to discuss Ken’s important contributions to Speech Communication.
Assisted Living in 1489

Much has been written about theories of aging in premodern times, but much less is known about theories of residential care. This article describes a handbook prescribing the building, staffing, and running of residences for seniors: The Gerontocomos, published in Italy in 1489 by Gabrielle Zerbi. The handbook describes in detail the physical environment and architecture, the qualifications of the administrator, and the hiring and training of assistants for what is essentially an Assisted Living Facility. Although ancient-to-Renaissance theories of aging differ widely from contemporary theories, some of the practical suggestions are not so different.
On the Spectral Entropy of Thermodynamic Paths for Elementary Systems

Systems do not elect thermodynamic pathways on their own. They operate in tandem with their surroundings. Pathway selection and traversal require coordinated work and heat exchanges along with parallel tuning of the system variables. Previous research by the author (Reference [1]) focused on the information expressed in thermodynamic pathways. Examined here is how spectral entropy is a by-product of information that depends intricately on the pathway structure. The spectral entropy has proven to be a valuable tool in diverse fields. This paper illustrates the contact between spectral entropy and the properties which distinguish ideal from non-ideal gases. The role of spectral entropy in the first and second laws of thermodynamics and heat → work conversions is also discussed.
Isolation and identification of a degradation product in a capsule formulation containing the elastase inhibitor, DMP 777.

An unexpected degradation product, greater than 0.10%, was observed in a DMP 777 capsule formulation stored at 40°C/75% r.h. for 3 months and 25°C/60% r.h. for 2 years. The degradant of interest was prepared in quantity by refluxing the drug substance in dilute acid. A preparative HPLC method was developed to separate the various degradants and to collect each as a separate fraction. Each fraction was analyzed by the analytical HPLC gradient test method to assure positive identification of each peak and to correlate each peak to the original capsule sample. Key isolated degradation products were used for structure elucidation with mass spectrometry and NMR. The major degradant of interest in the capsule formulation was found to be a carboxylic acid resulting from the acid hydrolysis of an amide bond.
Critical care of the pediatric oncology patient.

The survival rate of children with neoplastic disease has increased significantly because of advances in the diagnosis and treatment of malignancy. The consequences of these scientific advances have led to increased malignancy-related critical complications requiring the expertise of intensive care practitioners. In this article, the authors review common complications associated with malignancies that require admission to the pediatric intensive care unit. Disorders are grouped according to the pathophysiologic mechanism: mechanical effects, systemic effects, related to brain tumors, and complications of intensive chemotherapy or cnemo-radiotherapy regimens. Superior vena cava syndrome and brain tumors are described in detail. In conclusion, there is a discussion of outcome data for children with neoplastic disease who are admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit and the role of the advanced practice nurse in influencing patient and family perceptions of the experience.
Portable XRF analysis of archaeological sediments and ceramics

Abstract Recently, there has been significant interest in the use of portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometers (pXRF) for cultural materials applications, especially ceramics and sediments. Although modern pXRF spectrometers have lower detection limits and better resolution than those of decades past, portable instruments remain subject to the same limitations as bench-top ED-XRF instruments, particularly with respect to sample preparation, instrument calibration, and ability to accurately quantify low-Z elements. In this paper, we evaluate the strengths and limitations of pXRF analysis for the quantitative compositional analysis of archaeological ceramics and sediments and propose an analytical protocol and calibration designed to optimize pXRF performance for these materials.
The Effects of the Upright Position During Childbirth

The purpose of this investigation was to replicate an earlier study to clarify and verify its findings. The 68, term primigravidae married women between the ages of 18 and 25 years were assigned to three groups: (a) one group used a 30 degree upright position with no bearing down instructions during the second stage of labor (n = 24); (b) the second group used a 30 degree upright position with bearing down instructions given during the second stage of labor (n = 22); and (c) a control group used a zero degree recumbent position with bearing down instructions during the second stage of labor (n = 22). The upright position enhanced the descent of the fetal head with a shorter duration of labor in both the first and second stages. When mothers in an upright position were left alone to bear down in response to their own bodies' urges, the second stage of labor was of shorter duration.
Photoredoction of the chloropropionic acid of careentrazone‐ethyl in sodium sulfide crane flat meadow solutions

The purpose of this study was to determine whether the conversion of carfentrazone-chloropropionic acid to carfentrazone-propionic acid in sunlit rice paddies is attributed to photoreduction. Model solutions (Na2S with quinoids) irradiated by laboratory ultraviolet light dechlorinated carfentrazone-chloropropionic acid (l.6–28.4% yield of carfentrazone-propionic acid), though Na2S alone was also reactive. Minor conversion (0–2.5%) occurred in the dark, along with dehydrochlorination to carfentrazone-cinnamic acid. Carfentrazone-propionic acid formed proportionally to the Na2S concentration (0–50.7% at 1.3–91 mM), whereas acidic pH inhibited reactivity. Photoreduction with Na2S was verified with 2-chloropropionic acid conversion to propionic acid (53.5%) and by minor 4-chlorophenoxyacetic acid dechlorination. Dissolved Na2S was the primary photoreductant, whereas reduced quinones degraded carfentrazone-chloropropionic acid by an alternate reaction. A survey of ambient rice field conditions indicates that carfentrazone-chloropropionic acid photoreduction is not directly attributed to H2S/HS− in this environment, though reduced quinones may be involved to an unknown extent.
MEASURED EFFECTIVE LONG-WAVE EMISSIVITY OF CLOUDS

Abstract Measurements of the effective long-wave emissivity of clouds, equivalent to one minus the slab transmissivity, are obtained through thermal energy relations at cloud tops and bases after the manner of Gergen. Radiometric measurements are employed. Aircraft-verified cloud heights and measured effective cloud emissivities provide a basis for determining the presence of middle and high clouds. Such clouds result in large changes in radiation flux and apparent earth temperature measurements from satellites and high level balloons.
CHEMOATTRACTANT AND GTP-GAMMA S-MEDIATED STIMULATION OF ADENYLYL CYCLASE IN DICTYOSTELIUM REQUIRES TRANSLOCATION OF CRAC TO MEMBRANES

We have previously reported that activation of adenylyl cyclase by chemoattractant receptors in Dictyostelium requires, in addition to a heterotrimeric G-protein, a cytosolic protein, designated CRAC (Lilly, P., and P. N. Devreotes. 1994. J. Biol. Chem. 269:14123-14129; Insall, R. H., A. Kuspa, P. J. Lilly, G. Schaulsky, L. R. Levin, W. F. Loomis, and P. N. Devreotes. 1994. J. Cell Biol. 126:1537-1545). In this report, we show that in intact cells, chemoattractants promote translocation of CRAC from the cytosolic to the membrane fraction. However, CRAC is not required at the time of receptor stimulation; it can be added to lysates of activated cells. Treatment of membranes with guanine nucleotides creates binding sites for CRAC. These binding sites can be generated in mutants lacking each of the components of the pathway except the beta-subunit, suggesting that free or "activated" beta gamma-subunits may be a part of the binding site. This hypothesis is consistent with previous observations that CRAC contains a pleckstrin homology domain and that the beta gamma-subunits likely mediate activation of adenylyl cyclase in this system. Thus, CRAC may serve as an adapter, linking the G-protein beta gamma-subunits to activation of the enzyme. GTP gamma S cannot generate CRAC-binding sites when the adenylyl cyclase pathway has been adapted by prior chemoattractant stimulation, suggesting that this is a point of downstream adaptation.
Unilateral sporadic retinal dysplasia: Results of histopathologic, immunohistochemical, chromosomal, genetic, and VEGF-A analyses

Purpose To describe new findings in a case of unilateral retinal dysplasia. Methods Histopathologic evaluation of an enucleated globe and analysis with immunohistochemical probes, karyotyping, and genetic analysis for the Norrie gene, and aqueous assay for vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A). Results Histopathological examination of the globe revealed retinal dysplasia with pseudorosette formation, abnormal or absent retinal nuclear lamination, a paucity of disorganized retinal microvasculature, retinal infoldings, advanced gliosis, persistent hyperplastic vitreous, exuberant neovascularization of the vitreous, and iris neovascularization (identical to the findings observed in bilateral Norrie disease). Immunohistochemistry disclosed GFAP-positive and GLUT-1-positive gliosis and retinal and persistent hyperplastic vitreous microvessels that were CD34-positive and GLUT-1-negative. Ki-67-positive retinal cells were polarized toward the subretinal space and absent in the retinal invaginations and pseudorosettes. A normal karyotype was found, and DNA sequencing revealed no known mutation in the region of the Norrie gene ( NDP ) in sputum or retinal DNA. Aqueous obtained immediately after enucleation contained an exceptionally high concentration of VEGF-A (4.5 ng/mL). Conclusions Despite the failure to find an abnormal NDP allele, other unexplored NDP regions, an undetected defect restricted to retinal tissues, or an autosomal mutation coupled with disrupted signaling pathways may be responsible for the condition. High aqueous VEGF-A suggests that this cytokine may play a role in pathogenesis in conjunction with other pathways.
Molecular Model for Toughening in Double-Network Hydrogels

A molecular mechanism is proposed for the toughness enhancement observed in double-network (DN) hydrogels prepared from poly(2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid) (PAMPS) polyelectrolyte ne...
Cell-based physical design under timing constraints

A physical design system is presented which incorporates timing requirements into the placement procedure. Timing analysis prior to layout is augmented with predictive capabilities. During this step, the most critical paths and nets are predicted. The timing data prepared by the timing analysis step are included into the set of constraints governing the placement. The algorithm automatically adapts its parameters depending on the characteristics of the partial placement solution and uses a look-ahead procedure for providing a more general view of the partial placement. >
Applying Production Control in Materials/Logistics Management

Production control is a service-oriented activity that balances the needs of manufacturing handling, marketing, finance, engineering, and other departments. Many principles and techniques are used by these departmental managers to control operations, but production control focuses on procedures, inputs for the planning and control of manufacturing resources, including facilities, personnel, and materials.
Perceived organizational support as a mediator of the relationship between politics perceptions and work outcomes.

Abstract The present study investigates the mediating potential of perceived organizational support (POS) on politics perceptions–work outcomes relationships. Consistent with previous research, individuals were able to discriminate political activity at more than one level (i.e., at the highest level in the organization, one level up from one’s current level, and at one’s current level). Further, politics perceived at one level up from one’s current level and politics at the highest levels in the organization were negatively related to perceived organizational support. In addition, POS was related to job satisfaction, performance, affective commitment and job-induced tension providing support for mediation. Implications of these findings, strengths and limitations, and potential avenues for future research are provided.
Psychosocial determinants of adequacy of gestational weight gain

Pregnancy is a critical time window for evaluating weight gain on subsequent risk for obesity among women of childbearing age. The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, and fetal health locus of control (FHLC) beliefs were significant risk factors for adequacy of gestational weight gain (GWG) when maternal sociodemographic characteristics and health behaviors were considered. A total of 1,605 women were prospectively followed from ≤20 weeks' gestation through delivery. Participants completed standard self-report questionnaires. Adequacy of GWG was expressed as the ratio of observed/expected weight gain based on Institute of Medicine recommendations. Multivariate ANOVA models were conducted and generalized linear models were performed to calculate risk ratios. Higher depressive symptoms reported throughout pregnancy were significantly associated with higher adequacy ratios. Stronger beliefs in chance in determining fetal health predicted inadequate relative to adequate GWG and was positively associated with larger GWG ratios overall. Several relationships were attenuated when adjusted for covariates. The relationship between psychosocial status and adequacy of GWG is significantly impacted by maternal sociodemographic factors and health practices engaged in during pregnancy. Women who tend to believe that external factors primarily determine fetal health appear to be more vulnerable to nonadherence to clinical GWG guidelines. These results have important implications for targeting prevention and intervention efforts for improving maternal and fetal outcomes secondary to GWG patterns.
The Mandarins of Imperial Brazil

The politicians of the Brazilian Empire (1822–89) have provided the inspiration for a tremendous production of historical writing. Scholars have experienced difficulty, however, in making valid generalizations concerning the career patterns of imperial politicians: recruitment, training, integration, and advancement within the ranks of the political elite. Good biographies furnish useful details about individual politicians and their careers, but do not identify the system adopted by the monarchy for the purpose of developing its own political elite. Generalizations have been based on individual cases, and no adequate treatment of collective career patterns exists.
Complex N-linked glycosylated nicastrin associates with active γ-secretase and undergoes tight cellular regulation

The intramembranous proteolysis of Notch and the amyloid precursor protein by γ-secretase exemplifies an unusual and newly recognized mechanism of signal transduction in multicellular organisms. Here, we show that only a form of nicastrin (NCT) containingN-linked complex oligosaccharides is present in active γ-secretase complexes. Overexpression of NCT does not generate more of this mature protein, a phenomenon analogous to the strictly regulated formation of mature presenilin heterodimers from immature holoprotein. The absence of presenilin severely limits the maturation of NCT, yet combined overexpression of both proteins does not increase respective mature types. Taken together, our findings describe unusual regulatory features of this key signaling protease: the association of NCT with γ-secretase is tightly regulated via glycosylation; at least one other cofactor exists; the least abundant member of the complex becomes limiting; and the cofactor that serves this role may vary by cell type.
The clothes make the trans: region and geography in experiences of the body.

SUMMARY Written as an autoethnographic essay, the article explores the relationship between LGBT experience and geographic differences. The author discusses her experiences of forming a butch self while living in a suburban, subtropical environment and comparing herself to images of urban lesbian pop culture. If gender is performative, how do clothes permit us to or impede us from envisioning the body or being seen by others as butch/trans/masculine/multiple-gendered/diverse? Does the fashion uniform of the urban tranny boi and the publicizing of urban youth movements as the measure of LGBT experience impede LGBTs in other regions from envisioning themselves as “trans” or “butch” enough? Using interactionist sociological theory and gender performance theories, she considers the relationship between the visually sexed body and gendered embodiment. The goal in this piece is to open the conversation about regional LGBT experiences and their influence on physical embodiment.
Volunteering in Later Life: Research Frontiers

Objectives This review summarizes the current knowledge about volunteering in later life and suggests 5 research questions at the forefront of knowledge development. Results Rates of volunteering do not decline significantly until the middle of the 7th decade, and older volunteers commit more hours than younger volunteers. Older adults with more human and social capital tend to volunteer, and there is good evidence of a reciprocal relationship between volunteering and well-being. Program and policy developments in the field are outstripping production of knowledge to support evidence-based practices. Discussion Research on the dynamics of volunteering over the life course as well as the patterns of activities that co-occur with volunteering is needed to guide program development. Research methods and findings from transdisciplinary work on the mechanisms through which psychosocial conditions affect health must be extended to the study of the effects of volunteering on older adults. Finally, we need to engage in more applied social science aimed at improving volunteer management, especially recruitment and retention of older volunteers.
Improving routing in sensor networks with heterogeneous sensor nodes

Existing routing protocols mainly consider homogeneous sensor networks where all sensor nodes are the same. However, a homogeneous ad hoc network suffers from poor performance limit and scalability. Recent research has demonstrated its performance bottleneck both theoretically and through experiments. Furthermore, recently deployed sensor network systems are increasingly following heterogeneous designs, incorporating a mixture of sensors with widely varying capabilities. To improve network performance, we propose to form heterogeneous sensor networks by deploying a small number of powerful high-end sensors in addition to a large number of low-end sensors. We design an efficient cluster head relay (CHR) routing protocol for heterogeneous sensor networks. Our simulation experiments demonstrate that CHR performs better than two popular sensor network routing protocols.
Advances in location modeling: GIS linkages and contributions

Geographic information systems (GIS) have matured and proven to be an enabling technology, one that is important to many disciplines. Location analysis is also a field that has matured and continues to evolve. In fact, the combination of GIS and location science is at the forefront of advances in spatial analysis capabilities, offering substantial potential for continued and sustained theoretical and empirical evolution. This paper provides an overview of location analysis and discusses GIS. The paper highlights how GIS has contributed to location science in terms of data input, visualization, problem solution and theoretical advances. The significance of GIS in this context is that it is far more than a mere spatial data input mechanism, which is a commonly held misconception within geography, operations research and other allied disciplines. In contrast to other reviews, the focus in this paper is to highlight the theoretical foundations of location analysis and modeling and how GIS is contributing to important advancements in this field. An overall contribution of the paper is providing a perspective on spatial analysis and how associated specialty areas are evolving and thriving, particularly as a component of GIScience.
Assessments of Potential Spatial‐temporal Variations in Phosphorus Distribution and Fractionation in River Bed Sediments

Sediment characteristics influence the distribution and bioavailability of phosphorus (P) in river sediments. In this study, we analyzed different P fractions in the sediments of the Bronx River, New York City, NY, using sequential extraction. The results showed that the average P pool rank order was HCl-P > NaOH-P > NaHCO 3 -P > residue-P, and their relative proportions were 3.7: 2.0:1.4: 1 in sediments collected in 2006, while HCl-P > NaOH-P > residue-P > NaHCO 3 -P, with their relative proportions of 27.8:6.2:2.7:1 in the sediments obtained in 2007. The strong correlation between microbial P and organic P (OP), along with the changes in microbial P over time indicate that most of the OP in the river bed sediments is potentially bioavailable. The sediment transport, deposition, assimilation, the exchange of P between sediments and water columns, the land use changes, raw sewer discharge, gas spill, construction, fertilizer application, etc., as well as the hydro-climatic changes could result in the spatial and temporal variations in P bioavailability in the river bed sediments. The estimations of P pools and their bioavailability in river bed sediments could help determine the spatial and temporal variations in P transport and impacts of land use on water quality, in turn, help regulate P in the river's watershed.
Residues in Runoff and on Leaves of Azinphosmethyl and Esfenvalerate Applied to Sugarcane

A study of azinphosmethyl and esfenvalerate runoff losses after application to sugarcane for control of the sugarcane borer was conducted on the St. Gabriel Research Station of the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center. In a 2nd study, leaf loads of these insecticides were determined. The 24-h LC50 (27.8 μg/liter) of azinphosmethyl to bluegill was exceeded in 2 of the 9 runoff events that occurred during the study period, but because of expected dilution effects downstream from the site of application, only the concentration (261 μg/liter) that occurred in runoff 2 d after application was high enough to cause concern. The 24-h LC50 (4,530 μg/liter) of azinphosmethyl to channel catfish fingerlings was not exceeded. The day 2 level of esfenvalerate (1.91 μg/liter) did not exceed sufficiently the 24-h LC50 (0.42 μg/liter) of this insecticide with respect to bluegill to cause concern; the toxicity of the pyrethroid to channel catfish (2.35 μg/liter) was not surpassed. A reduced (two-thirds) rate application of esfenvalerate with acephate did not lead to concentrations of the pyrethroid in runoff higher than its toxicity to these fish species. The time to 50% disappearance (DT50) of azinphosmethyl leaf residues varied from 0.90 to 1.09 d, which was similar to the DT50 (0.76 d) of the chemical in runoff. Esfenvalerate on leaves was longer lived (DT50 = 2.46–4.46 d). These runoff and leaf residue data indicate that azinphosmethyl or esfenvalcrate applications to sugarcane should cause little concern for toxic effects on bluegill or channel catfish except possibly in the event of runoff within 2–3 d of application of the azinphosmethyl (possible bluegill toxic effects) or within 1 d of esfenvalerate application (possible toxicity to both fishes). Reduced rate applications would be of substantially less concern.
Growth of deleterious mutant genes in a large population

Formulae for the arrival probability and first arrival time for a single mutant gene to reach a certain number have been obtained by using a continuous branching process. If the mean of the progeny number of heterozygotes is less than one the arrival probability increases with increasing variance of the progeny distribution whereas if the mean is greater than one the contrary is true. Since most human populations are growing at fairly high rates, the result indicates that the probability for a single mutation to grow to a large number is quite high. Numerical computations show that the mean first arrival time decreases with increasing variance of the progeny distribution of the mutant carriers. The results have been applied to investigate the case of the acheiropodia gene in Brazil. The hypothesis that all acheiropodia genes in Brazil were derived from a single mutation seems to be tenable.
Clinical Safety, Tolerability, and Pharmacokinetics of Murine Monoclonal Antibody to Human Tumor Necrosis Factor-α

The safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetic profile of murine monoclonal antibody to human tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF alpha MAb) were evaluated in 20 uninfected patients at risk of sepsis and 16 septic patients. TNF alpha MAb was well tolerated in all patients, with no immediate or delayed signs of allergic reaction. During the 28-day evaluation, side effects included thrombocytosis (11), hepatic enzyme elevations (8), cardiac arrhythmias (3), and deaths (5). Each was attributed to the patient's severe underlying disease and not to TNF alpha MAb; however, a relationship between TNF alpha MAb and these events cannot be ruled out. The half-life was 52 h for a single infusion of TNF alpha MAb. Human antibody against TNF alpha MAb was observed in 13 (76.5%) of 17 phase IA patients and 10 of 10 phase IB patients and anti-idiotype antibodies in 11 (91.7%) of 12 phase IA patients and 2 (33.3%) of 6 phase IB patients. TNF alpha MAb should be evaluated as adjunctive therapy for patients with sepsis.
Livestock waste-to-bioenergy generation opportunities

The use of biological and thermochemical conversion (TCC) technologies in livestock waste-to-bioenergy treatments can provide livestock operators with multiple value-added, renewable energy products. These products can meet heating and power needs or serve as transportation fuels. The primary objective of this work is to present established and emerging energy conversion opportunities that can transform the treatment of livestock waste from a liability to a profit center. While biological production of methanol and hydrogen are in early research stages, anaerobic digestion is an established method of generating between 0.1 to 1.3m3m(-3)d(-1) of methane-rich biogas. The TCC processes of pyrolysis, direct liquefaction, and gasification can convert waste into gaseous fuels, combustible oils, and charcoal. Integration of biological and thermal-based conversion technologies in a farm-scale hybrid design by combining an algal CO2-fixation treatment requiring less than 27,000m2 of treatment area with the energy recovery component of wet gasification can drastically reduce CO2 emissions and efficiently recycle nutrients. These designs have the potential to make future large scale confined animal feeding operations sustainable and environmentally benign while generating on-farm renewable energy.
Assisted closure of fasciotomy wounds: A descriptive series and caution in patients with vascular injury.

Introduction Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) and vessel loop assisted closure are two common methods used to assist with the closure of fasciotomy wounds. This retrospective review compares these two methods using a primary outcome measurement of skin graft requirement. Methods A retrospective search was performed to identify patients who underwent fasciotomy at our institution. Patient demographics, location of the fasciotomy, type of assisted closure, injury characteristics, need for skin graft, length of stay and evidence of infection within 90 days were recorded. Results A total of 56 patients met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 49 underwent vessel loop closure and seven underwent NPWT assisted closure. Patients who underwent NPWT assisted closure were at higher risk for requiring skin grafting than patients who underwent vessel loop closure, with an odds ratio of 5.9 (95% confidence interval 1.11 to 31.24). There was no difference in the rate of infection or length of stay between the two groups. Demographic factors such as age, gender, fracture mechanism, location of fasciotomy and presence of open fracture were not predictive of the need for skin grafting. Conclusion This retrospective descriptive case series demonstrates an increased risk of skin grafting in patients who underwent fasciotomy and were treated with NPWT assisted wound closure. In our series, vessel loop closure was protective against the need for skin grafting. Due to the small sample size in the NPWT group, caution should be taken when generalising these results. Further research is needed to determine if NPWT assisted closure of fasciotomy wounds truly leads to an increased requirement for skin grafting, or if the vascular injury is the main risk factor.
Imidazolium Cations with Exceptional Alkaline Stability: A Systematic Study of Structure–Stability Relationships

Highly base-stable cationic moieties are a critical component of anion exchange membranes (AEMs) in alkaline fuel cells (AFCs); however, the commonly employed organic cations have limited alkaline stability. To address this problem, we synthesized and characterized the stability of a series of imidazolium cations in 1, 2, or 5 M KOH/CD3OH at 80 °C, systematically evaluating the impact of substitution on chemical stability. The substituent identity at each position of the imidazolium ring has a dramatic effect on the overall cation stability. We report imidazolium cations that have the highest alkaline stabilities reported to date, >99% cation remaining after 30 days in 5 M KOH/CD3OH at 80 °C.