cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Data visualization for assessing the biofuel commercialization potential within the business intelligence framework.

Abstract With the ever-increasing energy demand, triggered by the continued population growth and accelerated industrial revolution, renewable energy has emerged as the world's fastest-growing energy source. Renewable energy's popularity has grown because it is environmentally friendly and abundant in natural environments. Despite its enormous potential as a viable alternative to traditional (fossil fuel-based) energy sources, renewable energy has rarely been commercialized and utilized. Its lack of commercialization has something to do with a lack of evidence proving its eco- and cost-efficiency. With this in mind, this paper aims to assess the eco- and cost-efficiency of renewable energy such as algae-based biofuels using data visualization. It also intends to help increase public awareness and facilitate the commercialization of renewable energy such as biofuels. Through experiments, this paper found that the success of biofuel commercialization hinged on temperature, light intensity, and algae strain. Another important finding is that the low carbon footprint resulting from biofuel consumption may not directly contribute to the immediate revenue growth of a biofuel producing company, but it can foster a long-term positive image that will help attract more customers in the future with increased brand recognition. Furthermore, this paper evaluates the effectiveness, the level of user involvement, and the usability of two data visualization tools built upon the dashboard and the balanced scorecard. Based on the case study, this paper demonstrates how effective and useful the tools are in communicating the firm's strategic goals toward sustainability and thus provides easier practical guidelines for renewable energy development decisions.
The Russian Revolution at 100: Sorting through the Interpretations

ABSTRACTThe Russian Revolution is being celebrated worldwide, at its 100th anniversary. There are, however, diverse interpretations of this historic event. Three of these are common among progressi...
Role of Cracks during the Annealing of Residually Stressed Brittle Structural Ceramics

A study of the mechanisms and kinetics of residual stress relaxation in polycrystalline aluminum oxides revealed significant relaxation at temperatures of about 850°C, much too low to permit relaxation by diffusional or dislocation creep. Such relaxation was accompanied by significant decreases in load-bearing ability and irreversible increases in specimen dimensions. SEM fractography indicated that the above observations were a result of cavitation and formation of cracks. Depending on the type of alumina, such crack propagation took place in either a sub-critical fashion by viscous deformation of a glassy grain boundary phase or by diffusive crack growth leading to spontaneous fatigue, often accompanied by highly catastrophic fracture. In view of such crack formation, the use of iso-thermal anneals for the relaxation of residual stresses in structural ceramics does not appear advisable. For this reason, ceramic materials, by appropriate process control, should be manufactured as free from residual stresses as possible.
When Morality and Economics Collide (or Not) in a Texas Community

In 1993, citizens in conservative Williamson County, Texas, debated whether to grant tax breaks to attract Apple Computer Company, even though Apple maintained an unpopular policy of extending health care benefits to the unmarried domestic partners of employees. We visited Williamson County to speak with local citizens and the main participants about how they resolved their dilemma. The analysis in this paper rests on these interviews, county survey data, and correspondence sent to politicians during the controversy. We analyze why some people are more prepared than others to sacrifice material gain in order to preserve their social and moral values. And we explore whether actions aimed at preserving a community consensus around particular moral beliefs and lifestyles can be construed as rational and, if so, in what sense. We conclude from the Apple case that the development and maintenance of a value system is imbued with interests. Cultural values coordinate political coalitions and social activities, counsel people on how to live, and constitute a simple folk theory that lends conherence to their lives. People do the best they can within the biases and constraints of their value system.
Debriefing with Good Judgment

Debriefing is the learning conversation that follows a simulation session. The instructor’s role in providing feedback and guiding reflection is critical to ensure that reflecting on the simulation experience yields learning and growth in accordance with the stated educational goals of the session. This chapter describes the philosophy of “Debriefing with Good Judgment” which was developed at the Center for Medical Simulation in Cambridge, Massachusetts. In particular the focus is on four key principles that debriefers should follow: have learning objectives that are clearly defined prior to the simulation session, set expectations clearly for the debriefing session, be curious, give feedback, try not to “fix” your learners, and organize the debriefing session into three phases.
Multi-channel Software-Oriented Pulse Width Modulation (SPWM).

In this paper, we propose a software-oriented method for generating multiple pulse width modulation channels from the parallel port of a computer without using any additional interface. We have developed an algorithm to modulate different signals that may come from different sources and generate the corresponding modulated signals on the parallel port of a computer. Our approach is tested in real-word applications, and the successful results open the door for relying more and more on software for the different types of modulation and various telecommunication systems like software radio.
Carbon Dioxide in igneous petrogenesis: I

A number of experimental CO2 solubility data for silicate and aluminosilicate melts at a variety of P- T conditions are consistent with solution of CO2 in the melt by polymer condensation reactions such as SiO 4( 4− +CO2(v)+Si n O 3+1() (2+1) ⇌Si n+1O 3+4() (2+4)− +CO 3( )2− . For various metalsilicate systems the relative solubility of CO2 should depend markedly on the relative Gibbs free change of reaction. Experimental solubility data for the systems Li2O-SiO2, Na2O-SiO2, K2O-SiO2, CaO-SiO2, MgO-SiO2 and other aluminosilicate melts are in complete accord with predictions based on Gibbs Free energies of model polycondesation reactions. A rigorous thermodynamic treatment of published P- T-wt.% CO2 solubility data for a number of mineral and natural melts suggests that for the reaction CO2(m) ⇌ CO2(v) $$\ln X_{{\text{CO}}_{\text{2}} }^m = \ln f_{{\text{CO}}_{\text{2}} } - \frac{A}{T} - B - \frac{C}{T}(P - 1)$$ have been determined. Regression parameters are (A, B, C): andesite (3.419, 11.164, 0.408), tholeiite (14.040, 5.440,0.393), melilite (9.226, 7.860, 0.352). The solubility equations are believed to be accurate in the range 3<P<30 kbar and 1,100°<T<1,650 °C. A series of CO2 isopleth diagrams for a wide range of T and P are drawn for andesitic, tholeiitic and alkalic melts.
Characterizing the acoustic behavior of free-ranging Risso’s dolphins (Grampus griseus) in Monterey Bay, California

Risso’s dolphins (Grampus griseus) are a common, highly vocal odontocete species found in Monterey Bay, California, that is relatively understudied acoustically. Although several studies have focused on Risso’s echolocation, there is little research on the other social sound types for this species. Apart from echolocation clicks, the two most common sound types in Risso’s dolphin repertoires are whistles and whistle + burst pulse (whistle BP) vocalizations. In summer 2017, single C57 omnidirectional hydrophone (Cetacean Research Technology) deployments were conducted in Monterey Bay to record Risso’s sound production during periods of slow travel and social interaction at the surface. Group composition information and surface behavioral events were also recorded to provide behavioral context. Average group sizes consisted of approximately 30 animals. We completed a total of 62 h on effort and 75 deployments. Of the 5 total hours of recordings, 43% contained vocalizations. We will describe the acoustic parameters of recorded whistle and whistle BP vocalizations of Monterey Bay Risso’s dolphins, evaluate sound production rate in relationship to surface active behavior, and compare vocalizations with those of geographically isolated populations as well as sympatric odontocete species in the Bay.
Evaluating streetscape modifications in Los Angeles, California with a health lens.

Background and Purpose: Despite growing evidence linking health and the built environment, local health departments are often not involved in the evaluation of a streetscape modification project. This paper describes an assessment conducted by a local health department to address this gap by using a health lens to evaluate the installation of painted curb extensions on a commercial corridor in Los Angeles. Methods: The local health department conducted an observational pre-post study of pedestrian and motorist data at both an intersection receiving the painted curb extension and a comparison intersection along the same corridor that had already received the extension. The study also analyzed streetscape features along the corridor related to walkability, to understand the painted curb extension in the context of the broader built environment. Results: The painted curb extension did not appear to significantly impact pedestrian and motorist behavior, though some slight changes were observed. Pedestrians along the corridor generally exhibited safe behavior at intersections, but encountered dangerous driver behavior and built environment barriers, which can discourage walking. Conclusion: This case study demonstrates how health considerations can be integrated into an evaluation of a streetscape modification project, and can provide guidance for other health practitioners developing such evaluation projects in their own jurisdictions.
An Ethical Marketing Approach to Wicked Problems: Macromarketing for the Common Good

Macromarketing attempts to address issues that engage marketing and society and previous ethical scholarship has focused on distributive justice and on exchanges that occur in conventional markets. As our research highlights, however, the distributive justice approach alone is insufficient for managing the complexities, ethical paradoxes, and out-of-market conditions associated with wicked, cross-national social concerns. In this article, we integrate macromarketing with the theory of the common good in order to provide a foundation for framing societal change that can encompass nonmarket value, stakeholder rights, collective social priorities, organizational responsibilities, and political action.
Metformin and cognition from the perspectives of sex, age, and disease

Metformin is the safest and the most widely prescribed first-line therapy for managing hyperglycemia due to different underlying causes, primarily type 2 diabetes mellitus. In addition to its euglycemic properties, metformin has stimulated a wave of clinical trials to investigate benefits on aging-related diseases and longevity. Such an impact on the lifespan extension would undoubtedly expand the therapeutic utility of metformin regardless of glycemic status. However, there is a scarcity of studies evaluating whether metformin has differential cognitive effects across age, sex, glycemic status, metformin dose, and duration of metformin treatment and associated pathological conditions. By scrutinizing the available literature on animal and human studies for metformin and brain function, we expect to shed light on the potential impact of metformin on cognition across age, sex, and pathological conditions. This review aims to provide readers with a broader insight of (a) how metformin differentially affects cognition and (b) why there is a need for more translational and clinical studies examining multifactorial interactions. The outcomes of such comprehensive studies will streamline precision medicine practices, avoiding "fit for all" approach, and optimizing metformin use for longevity benefit irrespective of hyperglycemia.
Recasting History: How CBC Television has Shaped Canada’s Past

Professor Monica MacDonald’s book, Recasting History: How CBC Television Has Shaped Canada’s Past, is an account of how the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) English-language television sough...
P352 STD, HIV, and pregnancy testing behaviors among internet and mobile dating application users and non-users, 2016

Background Use of internet websites and geosocial networking mobile applications for sexual and romantic relationships has grown steadily. We examined the prevalence of dating app use and STD, HIV and pregnancy testing among market research survey respondents. Methods We analyzed 2015–2016 data from the Scarborough/MARS Healthcare Module, which contains data from two market research data sets. In this sample, 199,308 responses were received (18≥ years), weighted, combined across datasets, and projected to a 2016 U.S. adult population. We also assessed dating app use by demographics, STD, HIV, and pregnancy testing practices in the past year. Results Of the projected population (n=197, 150,967), 6.2% (7.0% men; 5.3% women) reported using dating apps in the past 30 days. Over half of all dating app users (50.3%) were between the ages of 18–34 years. App users were more likely than non-users to report male gender (55.2% vs 48.1%), Hispanic ethnicity (29.4% v 16.2%) and race other than white (31.3% v 23.1%). Fifty-seven percent of dating app users were never married, and 23.8% were married at the time of use. Overall, a higher proportion of dating app users than non-users reported STD testing (6.5% vs 4.0%, PR=1.64) and HIV testing (5.9% vs 3.8%, PR=1.54), in the past year. However, among 18–24 year olds, STD and HIV testing was 14–16% less common among users, compared to non-users. Women using dating apps were more likely than non-users to take pregnancy tests in the past year (8.8% vs 5.6%, PR=1.57). Conclusion A small proportion of the general population use dating apps, and STD testing rates were low. However, efforts to build upon the higher rates of reported testing for STD, HIV, and pregnancy among app users (e.g., site advertisements, questions during sexual healthcare visits) might improve testing rates in this group. Targeted attention to adolescents and young adults is warranted. Disclosure No significant relationships.
Burnout and Substance Use in Collegiate Athletic Trainers.

CONTEXT The Smith Cognitive-Affective Model of Athletic Burnout suggests that athletic trainers (ATs) suffering from burnout may engage in substance use as a coping behavior. Increases in self-reported burnout symptoms are often associated with increases in heavy episodic drinking and tobacco use among various health care providers. However, this relationship has not been examined thoroughly. OBJECTIVE To investigate the prevalence of substance use in ATs and identify relationships between symptoms of burnout and substance use among ATs. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Web-based survey. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS A total of 783 certified ATs working full time in the collegiate or university setting were sampled for this study. Graduate assistant and other part-time ATs were excluded. The survey was distributed via the National Athletic Trainers' Association membership directory e-mail broadcast service. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) A 100-item online questionnaire consisting of items from previously used scales was used for this study. The survey included the Maslach Burnout Inventory and questions on substance use from the Monitoring the Future study. Multiple regression analyses were performed to analyze the survey data. All independent (Maslach Burnout Inventory subscales) and dependent (use of alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana) variables were mapped to the Smith Cognitive-Affective Model of Athletic Burnout to determine which dimensions of burnout altered the odds of self-reported substance use. RESULTS Almost half (46.3%) of participants admitted to at least 1 binge-drinking episode. However, the use of cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, marijuana, and energy drinks during the previous month was less pronounced in the sample. Emotional exhaustion (B = 0.008, P = .023) and personal accomplishment (B = -0.016, P = .02) were significantly correlated with binge drinking. Emotional exhaustion (Exp[B] = 1.017, P < .001) was also significantly positively correlated with energy-drink consumption. CONCLUSIONS Some ATs engaged in heavy episodic drinking. Emotional exhaustion and a decreased sense of personal accomplishment were significantly correlated with this behavior.
Percutaneous CT-Guided Cryoablation of the Bilateral Pudendal Nerves for Palliation of Intractable Pain Related to Pelvic Neoplasms.

Objectives:The purpose of this report is to describe the effect of computed tomography–guided bilateral pudendal nerve cryoablations on pain and time to discharge in the setting of acute hospitaliz...
Novel Sagittal Plane Radiographic Analysis of Guided Growth for Knee Flexion Contractures: Utilization of Blumensaat’s Line

Introduction: Anterior hemiepiphysiodesis of the distal femur guided growth procedure has advanced the treatment of fixed knee flexion deformities (FKFD). However, a consistent and reliable radiographic measurement to evaluate FKFD angular correction does not currently exist. We examined the outcomes of the guided growth procedure for FKFD utilizing a novel radiographic index using Blumensaat’s line, named the Blumensaat-femoral angle (BFA). To our knowledge this is the first description of this technique. Methods: The radiographs of 20 patients (34 knees), between 2005 and 2017, were reviewed. Age, …
A rare case of lupoid leishmaniasis defying diagnosis for a decade.

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a common disease affecting millions in endemic areas worldwide. We present a case of lupoid leishmaniasis, a rare variant of CL, which clinically mimicked sarcoidosis and/or granulomatous rosacea for 10 years until ultimate diagnosis. An 82-year-old U.S. citizen with an extensive travel history presented with a 10-year history of facial plaques on the cheeks and was previously diagnosed and treated as sarcoidosis. Multiple biopsies (previously and at presentation) revealed tuberculoid granulomas with negative special stains for microorganisms and negative sterile tissue cultures for acid-fast bacilli, bacteria, and fungal organisms. A diagnosis of granulomatous rosacea was rendered and multiple medical therapies were attempted, none with sustained improvement. Repeat biopsy of a new lesion revealed intracellular organisms consistent with leishmaniasis, which was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Lupoid leishmaniasis is a rare presentation of CL including facial plaques that can mimic granulomatous diseases affecting the face including sarcoidosis and granulomatous rosacea. CL can sometimes be challenging to diagnose through standard histopathologic examination; immunohistochemistry for CD1a can be used to augment tissue-based examination and PCR should be sent early in cases with sufficient concern.
Chapter 22 Targeting of proteins into and across the chloroplastic envelope

Abstract The transport of precursor proteins into chloroplasts is composed of at least two steps: a specific binding of precursor proteins to the surface of the chloroplastic envelope followed by translocation of precursor proteins across the envelope. Precursor binding to the envelope can only be detected when the translocation step is blocked and is greatly stimulated by low concentrations of ATP. When envelope membranes were isolated, bound precursors were found in a fraction previously shown to contain contact sites connecting the two membranes of the envelope. This observation supports the hypothesis that protein transport into chloroplasts occurs at contact sites. Translocation of precursor proteins across the envelope requires ATP in the stroma as its sole energy source. Synthetic peptide analogues, corresponding to different regions of the transit peptide of the small subunit of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase precursor, can inhibit either the binding or the translocation step of protein transport into chloroplasts. These peptides can also inhibit import of proteins destined for various compartments of the chloroplast, except a protein destined for the outer membrane. This indicates that precursor proteins of most chloroplastic compartments share the same import apparatus for their transport across the envelope. Proteins destined for the outer membrane of the envelope follow a unique import pathway. They are not synthesized as higher molecular weight precursors. Neither ATP nor a thermolysin-sensitive receptor is required for their insertion. The targeting mechanisms of proteins destined for the inner envelope membrane and for the intermembrane space of the envelope are still unknown. Some possible sorting pathways are discussed.
A Hybrid Evaluation-Optimization Trial to Evaluate an Intervention Targeting the Intersection of Alcohol and Sex in College Students and Simultaneously Test an Additional Component Aimed at Preventing Sexual Violence.

Background Using the multiphase optimization strategy (MOST), we previously developed and optimized an online behavioral intervention, itMatters, aimed at reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STI) among first-year college students by targeting the intersection of alcohol use and sexual behaviors. Purpose We had two goals: (a) to evaluate the optimized itMatters intervention and (b) to determine whether the candidate sexual violence prevention (SVP) component (included at the request of participating universities) had a detectable effect and therefore should be added to create a new version of itMatters. We also describe the hybrid evaluation-optimization trial we conducted to accomplish these two goals in a single experiment. Methods First year college students (N = 3,098) at four universities in the USA were individually randomized in a hybrid evaluation-optimization 2 × 2 factorial trial. Data were analyzed using regression models, with pre-test outcome variables included as covariates in the models. Analyses were conducted separately with (a) immediate post-test scores and (b) 60-day follow-up scores as outcome variables. Results Experimental results indicated a significant effect of itMatters on targeted proximal outcomes (norms) and on one distal behavioral outcome (binge drinking). There were no significant effects on other behavioral outcomes, including the intersection of alcohol and sexual behaviors. In addition, there were mixed results (positive short-term effect; no effect at 60-day follow-up) of the SVP component on targeted proximal outcomes (students' self-efficacy to reduce/prevent sexual violence and perceived effectiveness of protective behavioral strategies). Conclusions The hybrid evaluation-optimization trial enabled us to evaluate the individual and combined effectiveness of the optimized itMatters intervention and the SVP component in a single experiment, conserving resources and providing greatly improved efficiency. Trial registration NCT04095065.
Smaller Superficial Femoral Artery is Associated with Worse Outcomes after Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty for De Novo Atherosclerotic Disease.

Abstract Background With the exponential increase in the use of endovascular techniques in the treatment of peripheral artery disease, our understanding of factors that affect intervention failures continues to grow. We sought to assess the outcomes of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty for isolated de novo superficial femoral artery (SFA) disease based on balloon diameter. Methods The Vascular Quality Initiative database was queried for patients undergoing percutaneous balloon angioplasty for isolated de novo atherosclerotic SFA disease. Based on the diameter of the angioplasty balloon as a surrogate measure of arterial diameter, patients were stratified into 2 groups: group 1, balloon diameter Results From January 2010 through December 2018, a total of 1,904 patients met criteria for analysis, with a mean follow-up of 13.3 ± 4.5 months. The mean balloon diameters were 3.92 ± 0.26 mm and 5.47 ± 0.55 mm in group 1 and 2, respectively (P Conclusions In patients undergoing isolated SFA balloon angioplasty for CLTI, smaller SFA (
When Uncontrolled Diabetes Mellitus and Severe COVID-19 Converge: The Perfect Storm for Mucormycosis

Mucormycosis (MCR) has been increasingly described in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) but the epidemiological factors, presentation, diagnostic certainty, and outcome of such patients are not well described. We review the published COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAMCR) cases (total 41) to identify risk factors, clinical features, and outcomes. CAMCR was typically seen in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) (94%) especially the ones with poorly controlled DM (67%) and severe or critical COVID-19 (95%). Its presentation was typical of MCR seen in diabetic patients (mostly rhino-orbital and rhino-orbital-cerebral presentation). In sharp contrast to reported COVID-associated aspergillosis (CAPA) cases, nearly all CAMCR infections were proven (93%). Treating physicians should have a high suspicion for CAMCR in patients with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus and severe COVID-19 presenting with rhino-orbital or rhino-cerebral syndromes. CAMR is the convergence of two storms, one of DM and the other of COVID-19.
Celebrating Transnational Journalistic Connections

During the Cold War, journalists and media organizations sought closer connections with counterparts from other countries on “their” side of the Iron Curtain, as a means of bolstering their side in the Cold War ideological battle. This chapter investigates such efforts at forging transnational connections within the East and West blocs, and the aspirations of the parties involved. Such connections include initiation of international journalist exchanges, sharing of journalistic philosophical guidelines, and the development of international journalism organizations. Media organizations and nations engaged in such soft-diplomacy efforts as a means to boost their image on the world stage. This chapter also highlights idealistic visions to use satellite communication to foster greater understanding and peace via a live global television forum in the early 1960s.
Behind the Façade of Self-Correcting Science

Prior to my involvement in the hexagon case, I did not consider falsification to be a significant problem. The few times that the subject came up in conversation with colleagues, I can recall expressing my belief that no one would falsify data because they would be caught immediately. That is to say, I believed the myth of self-correcting science. That changed when I confronted people who were intentionally refusing to confront their falsifications and, indeed, threatening others in an attempt to squelch the truth. Here, I am not only referring to the respondents, but also university administrators. Many people rely on the idea of self-correction, saying ‘‘it will get sorted out in the journals.’’ If that were true, it would absolve the rest of us of any responsibility. When one actually tries to refute falsified data in a journal article, one realizes that the journals are not designed for that purpose. They are intended for new, fresh research. An author may not point out that other’s data are, in fact, misrepresented and not supported by the primary sources. Self-correction is a convenient myth that allows people to put an ugly reality out of their minds. However, the myth is brought up so frequently that it merits a spotlight to expose its absurdity.
Bladder and Bowel Continence in Older Women

More than 60% of women over age 65 living independently experience bladder and/or bowel incontinence, and the prevalence among institutionalized older adults is even higher. While its impact on quality of life cannot be overstated, incontinence is also associated with social isolation, depression, falls, and institutionalization. A thorough history, medication review, and physical exam are the most important components of the evaluation of incontinence symptoms. Urinary incontinence may be associated with activity (stress incontinence), urgency (urge incontinence), or both (mixed). Bowel incontinence may be without awareness (passive) or urge-associated, and may depend on stool consistency. Constipation may result in overflow bowel incontinence. Initial treatment recommendations include behavior modifications and pelvic floor muscle training for most women with bladder or bowel incontinence. Additional treatment options vary based on symptoms and may include bladder re-training, biofeedback, fiber supplementation, medication, rectal or vaginal inserts (including pessaries), nerve stimulation therapy, or surgery. Despite the existence of effective solutions, most women with incontinence do not discuss their symptoms with a healthcare provider due to existing stigma. It is therefore imperative that medical providers screen for incontinence routinely and provide counsel that while incontinence is a common condition with aging, it is always abnormal, and there are effective solutions to improve symptoms.
The Social Value of Corporate Giving and the Economic Costs of Disasters

Almost 85 percent of the deaths from natural disasters have occurred in low-income countries, yet more than 85 percent of relief coming from firms has gone to medium- and high-income economies. Does this mean a socially suboptimal allocation of economic resources? To assess this question, we study donations by corporations from 65 countries to the relief and reconstruction fund of all major disasters that affected the world from 2003 to 2013. Using a novel quasi-experimental method, we provide evidence that corporate giving efficiently specializes in disasters where the gap between the economic cost and the available sources for financing relief and recovery is the greatest. In such contexts, the competences and routines of the firm economically connected to the affected country generate a comparative advantage for the supply of relief and recovery vis-a-vis traditional public and multilateral donors. Because of these mechanisms, corporate disaster giving increases the speed of relief and recovery and mitigates the loss of social welfare by complementing public and multilateral funding in nations that have been historically outside the focus of attention of foreign aid institutions.
Leukocyte telomere length is associated with disability in older u.s. Population.

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether mean leukocyte telomere length (LTL) serves as a biomarker of disability assessed according to activities of daily living (ADLs) and what factors may modify this relationship. DESIGN: Retrospective cross-sectional study. SETTING: A subset of the National Long Term Care Survey (NTLCS), a Medicare-based U.S. population longitudinal study focused on trends of overall health and functional status in older adults. PARTICIPANTS: Six hundred and twenty-four individuals from the 1999 wave of the NTLCS cohort. MEASUREMENTS: Relative LTL determined according to quantitative polymerase chain reaction. LTL has previously been shown to correlate with common age-related disorders and mortality, as well as with socioeconomic status. RESULTS: A sex difference in LTL was observed but not age-dependent shortening or association with socioeconomic status. LTL was associated with disability and functional status assessed according to ADLs. The association between ADLs and LTL was stronger in subjects without diabetes mellitus, whereas associations were not seen when only subjects with diabetes mellitus were analyzed. Associations between LTL and cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer were also present in the group without diabetes mellitus but not in the group with diabetes mellitus. CONCLUSION: These findings support the concept that LTL is a biomarker of overall well-being that is predictive of disability of older individuals in the U.S. population. Diabetes mellitus plays an important role as a modifier of the association between LTL and disability, CVD, and cancer. These associations have clinical implications because of the potential predictive value of LTL and deserve further investigation.
Expression, purification, and characterization of SH2-containing protein tyrosine phosphatase, SH-PTP2

A human protein tyrosine phosphatase containing two src homology 2 (SH2) domains (SH-PTP2) was expressed in Escherichia coli under T7 promoter control and purified to near homogeneity. The purified protein, with molecular mass of 68 kDa on SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, was identified as SH-PTP2 by its protein tyrosine phosphatase activity and N-terminal amino acid sequence analysis. Its protein tyrosine phosphatase activity was sensitive to pH and salt concentration. Whereas its optimum pH for the low molecular weight substrate para-nitrophenyl phosphate is 5.6, the pH optima for peptide substrates were shifted toward neutral. With the artificial protein substrate reduced, carboxyamidomethylated, and maleylated lysozyme, it displays 2000-fold lower Km (1.7 microM) and 2.4-fold higher kcat (0.11 s-1) than with para-nitrophenyl phosphate. Among the phosphopeptides from autophosphorylation sites of receptors for epidermal growth factor and platelet-derived growth factor, SH-PTP2 displayed high activity toward phosphopeptides corresponding to pY992 of the epidermal growth factor receptor and pY1009 and pY1021 of the platelet-derived growth factor receptor. In further enzymatic studies with phosphopeptides corresponding to pY1009, SH-PTP2 showed nonlinear Line-weaver-Burk double-reciprocal plots, suggesting that the phosphopeptide corresponding to pY1009 may have a substrate and allosteric effect.
Electron Cloud Effects in High-Intensity Proton Accelerators

One of the primary concerns in the design and operation of high-intensity proton synchrotrons and accumulators is the electron cloud and associated beam loss and instabilities. Electron-cloud effects are observed at high-intensity proton machines like the Los Alamos National Laboratory's PSR and CERN's SPS, and investigated experimentally and theoretically. In the design of next-generation high-intensity proton accelerators like the Spallation Neutron Source ring, emphasis is made in minimizing electron production and in enhancing Landau damping. This paper reviews the present understanding of the electron-cloud effects and presents mitigation measures.
A Nonparametric Bayes Empirical Bayes Procedures for Estimating the Percent Nonconforming in Accepted Lots

An estimator is presented for estimating the percentage of nonconforming product in lots accepted under a zero-defect acceptance sampling plan. Extensions to the case of a c-defect acceptance sampling criterion are also considered. Both point and probab..
A Review of: “Starting, Strengthening, and Managing Institutional Repositories. Nabe, Jonathan.”

In less than a decade, institutional repositories (IRs) have made a major foothold in creating electronic archives of the intellectual output of academic institutions. Meanwhile, university librari...
Catch-up growth in infants with laryngomalacia after supraglottoplasty

Abstract Importance Laryngomalacia, the most common congenital anomaly of the infant airway, can lead to poor feeding and failure to thrive. The decision to perform the standard surgical treatment, supraglottoplasty, is often based upon a sustained period of poor weight gain or weight loss. Objective To characterize patterns of growth in infants with laryngomalacia, preceding and following supraglottoplasty. Design Retrospective chart review. Bioinformatics techniques were used to procure data from a clinical data warehouse based on the HL7 Reference Information Model consisting of all infants who underwent supraglottoplasty from June 1, 2005 to October 31, 2013. Height and weight measurements were obtained from 76 operated patients allowing for characterization of growth changes from the time of surgery to an average of 9 months following surgery. Logistic regression analysis was performed to examine the following variables for correlations with changes in weight, height and body mass index percentiles: patient age at surgery, preoperative weight, gender, and ethnic background. Setting Academic pediatric tertiary medical center. Participants Patients under 2 years of age at the time of surgery, who underwent supraglottoplasty for laryngomalacia, with height and weight measurements recorded within 3 months preceding surgery and greater than 3 months following surgery. Intervention Supraglottoplasty. Main outcomes and measures Change in weight, height and body mass index (BMI) percentile from pre-op to post-op. Results BMI increased from a mean of 15.4 to 18.0 and BMI percentile from a mean of 34 to 51 from pre-op to post-op. The largest BMI percentile increases were observed in infants that were 3 months or younger at the time of surgery, as well as in those under 12 months of age, who were in the lowest BMI quintile. Conclusions and relevance Infants who underwent supraglottoplasty tended to be small in weight and stature, and gained weight after surgery. Most of the weight gain occurred within 6 months of surgery. The largest increases in BMI percentile were observed in infants who were younger and smaller at the time of surgery while the infants older than 18 months had no significant gain.
Defects in multilayer plastic films II: Streak formation in extruded films

Abstract The companion paper [Prakash, O., A. Moitra, Defects in multilayer plastic films I: Interface defects in Coextrusion (2004), companion paper.] dealt with prediction and control of defects that may form in multilayer plastic films as the constituent materials pass through a co-extrusion die. A methodology for developing a robust process window for elimination of these defects was presented. The defects considered were (a) zig-zag defects (b) parabolic patterns forming over the width of the film, and (c) viscous-finger formation at the interface. However, there can be other forms of defects that are widely encountered, for example formation of streaks (parallel to the machine direction) in the film. The streaks may be on the surface or sub-surface and can compromise not just the visual quality but also the adhesion performance of the films. In the present work, we consider the origin of one form of streak-formation in multilayer films. A mechanism for streak formation in relation to thermal conditions on cooling/calendaring rolls is proposed and it is shown that rapid solidification of the film must be achieved to prevent streak formation due to thermal issues.
Aromatic rings as cure sites for EPM elastomers

Terpolymers of ethylene and propylene with 4-phenyl-, 4-o-tolyl, 4-p-tolyl, and 4-(1-naphthyl)-1-butenes were vulcanized with bisbenzylic halides in the presence of highly acidic clays. The halides include bischloromethyldurene, p-bischloromethylbenzene, and p-bisbromomethylbenzene. Since the polymers contain no olefinic unsaturation, the crosslinking is achieved by electrophilic attack of the halide on the pendant aromatic rings. The order of activity is naphthyl > tolyl > phenyl. The new curing system also reacts with olefinic unsaturation. Thus, an EPDM elastomer and SBR rubber, the latter containing both aromatic rings and double bonds, were also readily crosslinked.
Nano-electro-mechanical relays for FPGA routing: experimental demonstration and a design technique

Nano-Electro-Mechanical (NEM) relays are excellent candidates for programmable routing in Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs). FPGAs that combine CMOS circuits with NEM relays are referred to as CMOS-NEM FPGAs. In this paper, we experimentally demonstrate, for the first time, correct functional operation of NEM relays as programmable routing switches in FPGAs, and their programmability by utilizing hysteresis properties of NEM relays. In addition, we present a technique that utilizes electrical properties of NEM relays and selectively removes or downsizes routing buffers for designing energy-efficient CMOS-NEM FPGAs. Simulation results indicate that such CMOS-NEM FPGAs can achieve 10-fold reduction in leakage power, 2-fold reduction in dynamic power, and 2-fold reduction in area, simultaneously, without application speed penalty when compared to a 22nm CMOS-only FPGA.
The impact of client sexual orientation and gender on clinical judgments and diagnosis of borderline personality disorder

Concerns have been raised that individuals who are having difficulty coming out as gay or bisexual may be misdiagnosed with borderline personality disorder. In this analogue study, 141 psychologists evaluated a hypothetical client with problems that resembled borderline symptoms but were also consistent with a sexual identity crisis. Client descriptions varied by sexual orientation and gender. Results revealed an effect of sexual orientation for male clients, but not female clients. Male clients whom therapists perceived likely to be gay or bisexual, and male clients with partners of unspecified gender, were more likely to be diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. Therapists were more confident and willing to work with female clients and gave them a better prognosis. Therapists' responses are discussed in light of gender role bias and social desirability.
Next-generation sequencing reveals the biological significance of the N(2),3-ethenoguanine lesion in vivo.

Etheno DNA adducts are a prevalent type of DNA damage caused by vinyl chloride (VC) exposure and oxidative stress. Etheno adducts are mutagenic and may contribute to the initiation of several pathologies; thus, elucidating the pathways by which they induce cellular transformation is critical. Although N(2),3-ethenoguanine (N(2),3-eG) is the most abundant etheno adduct, its biological consequences have not been well characterized in cells due to its labile glycosidic bond. Here, a stabilized 2'-fluoro-2'-deoxyribose analog of N(2),3-eG was used to quantify directly its genotoxicity and mutagenicity. A multiplex method involving next-generation sequencing enabled a large-scale in vivo analysis, in which both N(2),3-eG and its isomer 1,N(2)-ethenoguanine (1,N(2)-eG) were evaluated in various repair and replication backgrounds. We found that N(2),3-eG potently induces G to A transitions, the same mutation previously observed in VC-associated tumors. By contrast, 1,N(2)-eG induces various substitutions and frameshifts. We also found that N(2),3-eG is the only etheno lesion that cannot be repaired by AlkB, which partially explains its persistence. Both eG lesions are strong replication blocks and DinB, a translesion polymerase, facilitates the mutagenic bypass of both lesions. Collectively, our results indicate that N(2),3-eG is a biologically important lesion and may have a functional role in VC-induced or inflammation-driven carcinogenesis.
Opinion: Stress in Students: Implications for Learning?

SUMMARY One of the principle aims of any institution offering higher education must surely be developing a student's talents to the full in an atmosphere conducive to learning. The insights of students or those on the receiving end provide important feedback on whether this aim comes close to reality. This contribution may be particularly important in these ‘competitive times’, where students are not only taking part in the performance appraisal of their lecturers, but are able to vote with their feet and go elsewhere. Research, to identify the sorts of ‘hurdles’ and ‘barriers’ many students have to face in higher education, can provide valuable information as to what students are up against when trying to learn effectively. These findings, along with those identifying stress amongst lecturers (Snape, 1992), can provide managers, who are eager to find ways of improving learning and motivation among students, with a useful insight into the ways that unnecessary negative stress can be alleviated within the ...
II. Patriarchalism, Politics and Mass Attitudes in Stuart England*

It is increasingly becoming a commonplace to assert that non-political activities engaged in during childhood play determinative roles in shaping individuals' attitudes toward and perceptions of the political order. A large part of this early ‘political socialization’, as it is now called, takes place within the family, which, in the words of one commentator, ‘incubates the political man’, whether or not there is a conscious attempt to inculcate political beliefs. As T. D. Weldon remarked, ‘Basic political creeds may not be actually imbibed … with mother's milk: but children are none the less indoctrinated in practically every other way.’ This socialization plus later experiences (including reading, conversations, and direct encounters with government) will help to implant notions of political legitimacy; that is, the grounds on which a political authority is held to be entitled to rule. Legitimacy and the consequent public acceptance of government are among the very foundations upon which politics rests. In the words of David Easton,If a government…is to be capable of performing its tasks, the member of the [particular political] system must be prepared to support the particular norms and structures that organize the way in which all political activities are performed. That is, they must be willing to support the 'constitutional order' or regime. Hence, we are identifying the fundamental rules of the game, as they are often described, regulating participation in political life and the particular way of organizing political power in a given society.