cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
INSURE: An integrated load reduction framework for XML stream processing

Because of high volumes and unpredictable arrival rates, stream processing systems cannot always keep up with input data streams, resulting in buffer overflow and uncontrolled loss of data. Load shedding and spilling, the two prevalent technologies designed to solve this overflow problem by dropping or flushing data to disk, suffer from serious shortcomings. Dropping data suffers in that partial output is lost forever, while flushing may waste precious resources due to making the strong assumption that flushed data can and will eventually still be processed. In this paper, we propose our solution, INSURE, integrating structure-based drop and flush techniques within one unified framework for XML stream systems. Our INSURE framework provides an optimized fine-grained load reduction solution that achieves high quality result production. First, the fusion candidate lattice models the space of load reduction solutions incorporating both drop and flush decisions, called fusion candidates. Second, our systematic analysis of fusion candidates and their interrelationships in the fusion candidate lattice reveals important relationships, including the monotonicity of their feasibility and profitability properties. Third, based upon this fusion candidate lattice model, a family of optimization strategies for the selection of fusion candidates is designed to successfully maximize the overall result quality. Experimental results demonstrate that INSURE consistently achieves higher quality results compared to the state-of-the-art techniques, yet with negligible overhead.
Evaluation of Soil Potassium Test to Improve Fertilizer Recommendations for Corn

The soil potassium (K) test methodology is under increased evaluation due to the soil sample drying effect, temporal variations of test results and inconsistent crop response to applied K fertilizers. Ten on-farm trials were conducted in 2014 in eastern North Dakota to determine the corn response to different K-fertilizer rates and to assess the variation of soil K test levels between airdried (KDry) and field moist (KMoist) soil samples during the corn growing season. Significant differences were observed between KDry and KMoist soil K test results. The ratio of KDry/KMoist showed high correlation with cation exchange capacity (r = 0.63, p < 0.10), Organic matter (r = 0.61, p < 0.10) and (Ca + Mg)/K ratio (r = 0.64, p < 0.10) from the 1 M ammonium acetate extractant, while pH, electrical conductivity, clay (%), and soil moisture showed non-significant correlation. On average, KDry resulted in higher soil K test levels than KMoist and pattern of deviation was different for surface and sub-surface soil samples. Soil K analysis of samples collected during the fall and spring showed large enough variations to affect the soil test interpretation category which was used to make fertilizer recommendations. Corn yield increased significantly with applied K fertilizer at only three out of 8 sites with beginning K levels below the current critical level of 150 ppm, and one response was at a site with K level above the critical level. Therefore, use of either the KDry or KMoist method alone may not be adequate to predict K response in some North Dakota soils.
Infinite dimensional dynamical systems

Abstract : An approach is outlined for the discussion of the qualitative theory of infinite dimensional dynamical systems. Retarded functional differential equations are used to illustrate the usefulness of the approach and the limitations of our present knowledge. (Author)
Generation and Earnings Patterns among Chinese, Filipino, and Korean Americans in New York:

By treating the 1.5 generation as a distinctive analytic category, this paper compares the effects of generational status on earnings among men of Chinese, Filipinos, and Korean descents in the New York metropolitan area. Our analyses of the 5 percent Public Use Microdata Sample data of the 2000 U.S. census show that all other background characteristics held equal, 1.5-generation Chinese and Filipino American workers make significantly higher earnings than second-generation workers. However, Korean American workers do not exhibit this 1.5-generation advantage. These findings support a segmented assimilation theory, the view that immigrant assimilation paths are not uniform across ethnic groups or generation status. Other findings suggest that bilingual ability would increase earnings only for the Chinese group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Stability of electrolyte determinations on the Siemens Advia 1800 analyzer.

Background It is sometimes necessary for the laboratory to re-test samples for critical serum electrolyte levels. It is important to assure reproducibility of results when testing is performed on stored, refrigerated samples. We have tested the reproducibility of results for the critical electrolytes, Na, K, Cl and Ca, from ten randomly selected patients'sera over our maximum storage period of nine (9) days on the Siemens Advia 1800 analyzer. The ranges for each electrolyte were 131–150 meq/L (Na), 3.4–5.2 meq/L (K), 101–123 meq/L (Cl) and 7.3–9.9 mg/dL (Ca). Methods We used ion-selective electrodes for Na, K and Cl and the ortho-cresolphthalein dye method for Ca. Results We find that the reproducibility of determinations for all of these electrolytes was excellent, i.e. the coefficients of variation for each electrolyte determination for each patient were low. Conclusion The methods of measurement for these electrolytes on the Advia 1800 are reliable and reproducible. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 26:372-375, 2012. Published 2012. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain the USA.
PKA-dependent regulation of mKv1.1, a mouse Shaker-like potassium channel gene, when stably expressed in CHO cells

Potassium (K) channels are important regulators of cellular physiology and can themselves be modulated by phosphorylation. We have investigated the potential protein kinase A (PKA) regulation of mKv1.1, a mouse Shaker-like K channel gene, when it is expressed in stably transfected Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell lines. Whole-cell patch- clamp records show that expression of mKv1.1 gives rise to a rapidly activating, sustained K+ current, referred to classically as a delayed rectifier-type current. In order to study the effects of PKA, we compared cell lines transfected with mKv1.1 alone with lines cotransfected with both mKv1.1 and a plasmid encoding a dominant negative mutation in the regulatory subunit of PKA. These mutant regulatory subunits bind to endogenous catalytic subunits of PKA but do not respond to cAMP, thereby causing a chronic reduction in the basal PKA activity in these cells. We found that mKv1.1 current kinetics are unaltered but current density is 3.4-fold higher in the cell lines expressing mutant regulatory subunit than in lines expressing only mKv1.1. RNase protection assays indicate that levels of the specific RNA for mKv1.1 are increased almost twofold in the lines expressing mutant regulatory subunit over the lines expressing mKv1.1 only. Further, the levels of mKv1.1 protein, assayed using an mKv1.1 channel- specific antibody, are increased by almost a factor of 3 between the two types of cell lines. These results suggest that PKA can regulate mKv1.1 channel expression by changing steady-state levels of RNA and by other posttranscriptional mechanisms.
Interaction between Aβ Peptide and α Synuclein: Molecular Mechanisms in Overlapping Pathology of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s in Dementia with Lewy Body Disease

Amyloidogenic proteins (Aβ peptide) in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and alpha-synuclein (α-Syn) in Parkinson’s disease (PD) are typically soluble monomeric precursors, which undergo remarkable conformational changes and culminate in the form of aggregates in diseased condition. Overlap of clinical and neuropathological features of both AD and PD are observed in dementia with Lewy body (DLB) disease, the second most common form of dementia after AD. The identification of a 35-amino acid fragment of α-Syn in the amyloid plaques in DLB brain have raised the possibility that Aβ and α-Syn interact with each other. In this report, the molecular interaction of α-Syn with Aβ40 and/or Aβ42 are investigated using multidimensional NMR spectroscopy. NMR data in the membrane mimic environment indicate specific sites of interaction between membrane-bound α-Syn with Aβ peptide and vice versa. These Aβ–α-Syn interactions are demonstrated by reduced amide peak intensity or change in chemical shift of amide proton of the interacting proteins. Based on NMR results, the plausible molecular mechanism of overlapping pathocascade of AD and PD in DLB due to interactions between α-Syn and Aβ is described. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first report using multidimensional NMR spectroscopy that elucidates molecular interactions between Aβ and α-Syn which may lead to onset of DLB.
Long-term winter cover cropping effects on corn (Zea mays L.) production and soil nitrogen availability.

This study was conducted to determine effects of long-term winter cover cropping with hairy vetch, cereal rye and annual ryegrass on soil N availability and corn productivity. From 1987 to 1995, with the exception of the first year of the study, the cover crops were seeded each year in late September or early October after the corn harvest and incorporated into the soil in late April or early May. Corn was seeded 10 days to 2 weeks after the cover crop residues had been incorporated, and N fertilizer was applied as a side-dressing at rates of 0, 67, 134, or 201 kg N ha–1 each year. While the average annual total N input from the above-ground biomass of the cover crops was highest for hairy vetch (72.4 kg N ha–1), the average annual total C input was highest for cereal rye (1043 kg C ha–1) compared with the other cover crops. Hairy vetch was the only cover crop that significantly increased pre-side-dressed NO3 –-N (Ni) corn biomass and N uptake at 0 N. At an N fertilizer rate of 134 kg N ha–1 or higher, the cover crops had a minimal effect on corn biomass. This indicated that even after 9 years of winter cover cropping, the effect of the cover crops on corn growth resulted primarily from their influence on soil N availability. The amount of available N estimated from the cover crops (Nac) was significantly correlated with relative corn biomass production (r 2=0.707, P<0.001). The total amount of available N, comprising Nac and N added from fertilizer (Nf), was strongly correlated (r 2=0.820, P<0.001)) with relative corn biomass production. The correlation was also high for the available N comprising Ni and Nf (r 2=0.775, P<0.001). Although cereal rye and annual ryegrass did not improve corn biomass production in the short term, they benefited soil organic N accumulation and gradually improved corn biomass production compared with the control over the long term.
Sesquiterpene lactones. Constituents of Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. (Compositae)

Abstract New collections of Ambrosia artemisiifolia were found to contain the pseudoguaianolides cumanin, peruvin and dihydrocumanin. This is the first report of the natural occurrence of dihydrocumanin.
Testicular sperm extraction and intracytoplasmic sperm injection: A simplified method for treatment of obstructive azoospermia

Abstract Objective: To assess the effectiveness of a simple method of testicular sperm extraction for the treatment of obstructive azoospermia. Design: Retrospective study. Setting: Teaching tertiary medical center. Patient(s): Seventeen men with obstructive azoospermia. Intervention(s): The patients underwent 19 cycles of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) using testicular sperm. In 5 cycles, testicular sperm extraction was performed after failed microepididymal sperm aspiration. In 14 cycles, testicular sperm extraction was performed in the office under local anesthesia from the outset. The outcome was compared with ICSI cycles using ejaculated sperm (95 cycles) and epididymal sperm (12 cycles fresh and 9 cycles frozen-thawed). Main Outcome Measure(s): Clinical pregnancy and implantation rates. Result(s): There were no differences in the fertilization, cleavage, implantation, or clinical pregnancy rates among ICSI cycles using testicular, epididymal (fresh or frozen-thawed), or ejaculated sperm. Conclusion(s): When used in conjunction with ICSI, testicular sperm extraction from small excisional biopsy is a simple and cost-effective method for the treatment of obstructive azoospermia.
Getting beyond the pain: understanding and dealing with declining library funding

Purpose – Aims to investigate the suggestion that the library‐funding crisis is real and that it is far more serious if one looks at it as a national and international phenomenon.Design/methodology/approach – Surveys recent library literature to ascertain the current health of library budgets. Specific examples are used.Findings – The changed focus in funding libraries reflects a change in civic values and institutional approaches to funding. Rather than rely on past strategies that once worked, new initiatives need to be developed.Originality/value – Suggests five ways in which libraries can position themselves for better funding support in light of current public values.
1,3-diphenylamidine and methylaminopyridine compounds of gallium

Abstract Reaction of Ga ( t Bu ) 3 with the 1,3-diphenylamidine [PhN(H)C(H)NPh, H-dpam] yields monomeric ( t Bu ) 2 Ga ( dpam ) (1). The partial hydrolysis of 1 results in the isolation of ( t Bu ) 2 Ga (μ- dpam )(μ- OH ) Ga ( t Bu ) 2 (2), whose structure consists of a gallium dimer in which the amidine and hydroxide ligands bridge two Ga ( t Bu ) 2 moieties. Reaction of [Me2Ga(μ-Cl)]2 with H-dpam results in the complex [H2-dpam] [Me2GaCl2] (3). The solid state structure of 3 indicates the presence of a hydrogen bonded cation-anion complex, in which the core has a twisted eight-membered ring configuration. The versatility of amidines as both chelating and bridging ligands to gallium is discussed with respect to the predominance of bridging and chelating modes of coordination of carboxylates and triazenides, respectively. Reaction of 2-(methylamino)pyridine (H-map) with Ga ( t Bu ) 3 allows for the isolation of ( t Bu ) 2 Ga ( map ) (4). In contrast, reaction with [( t Bu ) 2 Ga (μ- Cl )] 2 and [Me2Ga(μ-Cl)]2 yields the Lewis acid base adducts, ( t Bu ) 2 GaCl ( H-map ) (5) and Me2GaCl(H-map) (6), respectively. Reaction of compound 6 with nPrNH2 does not result in the deprotonation of the H-map ligand, but ligand metathesis and the formation of ( t Bu ) 2 GaCl ( NH 2 n Pr ) (7). The structures of 2, 3, 6, and 7 have been determined by X-ray crystallography.
Crustal Structure in Regions Bordering Pacific Ocean: ABSTRACT

Tectonic patterns of various circum-Pacific regions have many remarkable similarities and some puzzling differences. Consistent patterns of vulcanism and seismicity are well known, and recent geologic and geochronologic studies indicate surprisingly similar geologic histories of geosynclinal accumulation and plutonism in many regions, particularly along the Pacific margin of the Americas. Similarly, dominant strike-slip faulting parallel with the oceanic margins is being found as a consistent pattern in an increasing number of circum-Pacific areas, although the two areas where documentation is best, California and southern New Zealand, are definitely atypical in other important respects, such as the absence of abundant vulcanism and deep-focus earthquakes. Active strike-s ip faulting is primarily right-handed in the Americas from Alaska through Chile but applicability of this sense of displacement to the Asiatic margin is a subject of controversy. Available geologic evidence from this region does not agree with seismological studies of earthquake first motions, and reconciliation of conclusions from the two approaches remains a major problem in the understanding of circum-Pacific tectonics. End_of_Article - Last_Page 259------------
Pediatric manpower meeds in the area of developmental disorders and other chronic handicapping conditions

The purpose of this study was to determine the availability of and need for pediatricians specifically trained in the diagnosis and care of children with developmental disorders and/or other chronic handicapping conditions. Questionnaires were sent to department chairmen of 260 pediatric residency programs. Results of the survey are presented. On the basis of 73% responses, it is concluded that a need for pediatricians trained in developmental disorders and/or other chronic handicapping conditions exists. There were at the time of the study 32 open positions for pediatricians with such training. Eighty-four pediatric residents were interested in a fellowship and an additional 79 were considering it.
SUPERHEATED STEAM IMPINGEMENT DRYING OF TORTILLA CHIPS

ABSTRACT Low-fat snack products are the driving forces for the drying of tortilla chips before frying. Super-heated steam impingement drying of foods has the advantage of improved energy efficiency and product quality. The temperature profile, drying curves, and the physical properties (shrinkage, crispiness, starch gelatinization and microstructure) of tortilla chips dried at different superheated steam temperatures and heat transfer coefficients were measured. Results indicated that the steam temperature had a greater effect on the drying curve than the heat transfer coefficient within the range of study. The microstructure of the samples after steam drying showed that higher steam temperature resulted in more pores and coarser appearance. The modulus of deformation and the shrinkage of tortilla chips correlated with moisture content. A higher steam temperature caused less shrinkage and a higher modulus of deformation. The pasting properties showed that samples dried under a higher steam temperature and...
Lasiocarpine: factors influencing its toxicity and effects on liver cell division.

Abstract The effect of the pyrrolizidine alkaloid lasiocarpine on the liver has been examined in male, Sprague-Dawley rats which were subjected to one of the following additional treatments: (1) fed adequate or lipotrope-deficient diets, (2) given sulfhydryl or other antioxidant compounds, or (3) given the carcinogen N-2-fluorenylacetamide (AAF). Two principal manifestations of the hepatotoxicity of lasiocarpine are inhibition of cell division and induction of necrosis of liver cells. Liver damage and mortality following a single dose of lasiocarpine were decreased by lipotrope deficiency and by administration of mercaptoethylamine, but not by administration of α-tocopherol or ubiquinone. Inhibition by lasiocarpine of liver cell DNA synthesis and mitosis following partial hepatectomy was not significantly affected by any of the above experimental procedures. These results suggested that liver cell necrosis and inhibition of cell division were caused by different metabolites of lasiocarpine or by the parent compound and one or more metabolites. Lasiocarpine, given in a dose which depressed liver cell division after partial hepatectomy did not affect the induction of either hyperplasia or neoplasia by AAF.
Endorectal advancement flap for treatment of simple rectovaginal fistula

An endorectal advancement flap technique has been utilized in 35 women for repair of “simple” rectovaginal fistulas,i.e., those of low or midseptal location, less than 2.5 cm in diameter, and of traumatic or infectious etiology. Colostomy is unnecessary. Concomitant sphincteroplasty for correction of associated anal incontinence is readily accomplished. Results are excellent with healing ultimately achieved in 32 of 35 women (91 per cent).
Concentration of melanocyte stimulating hormone (MSH) within specific brain regions in aged squirrel monkeys

The concentration of MSH per unit protein is reduced on average in several sites within the brains of aged squirrel monkeys. This decrease may account for alterations in CNS functions mediated via MSH but perhaps does not account for reduced fever in these aged subhuman primates.
Efficient Resource Utilization in Parallel and Distributed Systems

For this special issue we have selected five papers that address, from several points of view, the problem of efficient utilization of resources in parallel and distributed systems. These papers were among the best papers presented at the IASTED PDCS 2001 conference. The topics covered include: efficient cache strategies for simultaneous execution of threads as well as for the distribution of video-on-demand, efficient communication and failure recovery, and run-time support for the automatic parallelization of dynamic structures
Spontaneous 19-year regression of oat cell carcinoma with scalene node metastasis

This is the first case report of a patient with oat cell carcinoma of the lung with scalene node metastasis who, without treatment, is alive 19 years after the original diagnosis was made by biopsy. Seven years before the publication of this report, and at the age of 66 years, he underwent coronary bypass surgery and there was no gross evidence of malignancy present.
A review of approximate riemann solvers with Godunov's method in lagrangian coordinates

Abstract This paper constructs several approximate Riemann solvers for use in solving the fluid flow equations in Lagrangian coordinates (the overall solution procedure used here is Eulerian with a Lagrangian step followed by a remap to the original coordinates). Results obtained with these solvers are compared with exact or converged numerical solutions to define their characteristics. The Riemann solvers developed here are useful in flow solution algorithms involving a Lagrangian-Eulerian or purely Lagrangian formulation.
Racial and ethnic differences in health care utilization and outcomes among ulcerative colitis patients in an integrated health-care organization.

Background Current knowledge of racial disparities in healthcare utilization and disease outcomes for ulcerative colitis (UC) is limited. We sought to investigate these differences among Caucasian, African American, Asian, and Hispanic patients with ulcerative colitis in Kaiser Permanente, a large integrated health-care system in Northern California.
A predictive model for heat flow during crystallization of semi-crystalline polymers

Crystallization plays an important role in polymer processes such as fiber spinning, injection molding and extrusion. The morphology of the crystalline phase ob tained influences the mechanical and physical properties of the material. The energy or the heat flow at the liquid-solid interface during crystallization plays a key role in controlling the kinetics and subsequently influencing the morphology of the transforming material. However, formulating the problem using Stefan's approach with constant interface temper ature is not sufficient for semi-crystalline matenals. In this paper, a numerical approach is taken to investigate the influence of crystallization kmetics, processing conditions and varying thermo-physical properties on the movement of the crystallization front. The change in crystallinity is modeled by modifying the crystallization temperature by relating it to the overall cooling rate of a hypothetical control volume in the crystalline domain. The results are compared with the analytical s...
Isolation of normal human IgG3. Identical molecular weight for normal and monoclonal gamma-3 chains.

Staphylococcal protein A has been shown to bind all IgG subclasses except IgG3 (Kronvall & Williams, 1969). This differential binding provides a method for the purification of normal IgG3, since chromatography of normal IgG on insolubilized protein A (e.g. protein A-Sepharose) should result in the elution of unbound IgG3 with neutral buffer. whereas IgGl. IgG2 and IgG4 molecules would be retained and would require a low pH for elution. This procedure was first used by Hjelm (1975) but his estimate of 56.000 for the mol. wt of normal gamma-3 chains was significantly lower than the previously reported mol. w’t of 59.50&60,950 for gamma-3 chains released by monoclonal IgG3 proteins (Saluk & Clem, 1971 ; Virella & Parkhouse, 1972). This discrepancy led us to attempt to repeat the purification of normal IgG3 and to determine the mol. wt of normal gamma-3 chains. Normal IgG was separated from the freshly collected serum of a normal donor by precipitation with ammonium sulfate at 33”)” saturation followed by ion-exchange chromatography in DE-52 (Whatman) using 0.01 A4 sodium phosphate buffer, pH 6.5. for the elution of IgG. This is a standard procedure in our laboratory, which has been found to yield IgG free of contamination with other proteins or immunoglobulins. The purified IgG was chromatographed in a protein A-Sepharose (Pharmacia) column measuring 0.9 x Scm. with a bed volume of 4.3 ml. Unbound protein was washed with 0.1 M sodium phosphate buffer, pH 7.0. to which 0.2 M epsilon-aminocaproic acid was added to protect IgG3 from proteolytic degradation (Virella & Yeh. 1977). Bound protein was eluted with 1 A4 acetic acid containing the same concentration of epsilon-aminocaproic acid. Fractions containing unbound and bound protein were pooled separately and concentrated by negative pressure ultrafiltration, with simultaneous dialysis against phosphate-buffered saline. The concentrated and neutralized pools were then characterized for their IgG subclass content by double immunodiffusion (Ouchterlony, 1962) in 17, (w/v) Noble agar (Difco) in 0.3 M potassium phosphate buffer. pH 8.0, using sheep antisera to IgG subclasses produced in the Department of Experimental Pathology, University of Birmingham, U.K. and absorbed in our laboratory (except for anti-IgGl, which was provided in absorbed form). The molecular weights of the heavy chains released by the bound and unbound fractions of normal human IgG
Essential Fatty Acid Deficiency in the Laying Hen

Abstract AN ESSENTIAL fatty acid deficiency in the rat has been thoroughly investigated and the symptoms are well defined (Aase-Jorgensen, 1961). Less study has been devoted to such a deficiency in birds. An essential fatty acid deficiency in growing chickens was reported by Bieri et al. (1956) in which chicks fed a fat-free diet grew less after 6 weeks of age than those fed the basal diet supplemented with 4% corn oil. No marked deficiency symptoms were observed, however, even after 20 weeks of depletion. Machlin and Gordon (1961) obtained growth responses to linoleic acid supplements during the first two weeks of the chick’s life. The growth depression on the fat-free diet was accentuated by adding saturated fatty acids and cholesterol. Fatty acid analysis of heart, testes and cerebrum revealed an increase in triene and decrease in tetraene acids in the deficient birds. Dam et al. (1956) and Bieri et al.
Six types of fallaciousness: Toward a realistic theory of logical criticism

I begin by formulating the problem of the nature of fallacy in terms of the logic of the negative evaluation of argument, that is, in terms of a theory of logical criticism; here I discuss several features of my approach and several advantages vis-a-vis other approaches; a main feature of my approach is the concern to avoid both formalist and empiricist excesses. I then define six types of fallaciousness, labeled formal, explanatory, presuppositional, positive, semantical, and persuasive; they all involve arguments whose conclusion may be said not to follow from the premises, that is, they involve the logical evaluation of relationships among propositions. I also provide a set of data consisting of four historical cases or nine specific instances of fallacious arguments; these all pertain to the Copernican controversy about the earth's motion in the seventeenth century. I end with a discussion of further problems and inquiries that deserve attention.
THE FACTORIAL STRUCTURE OF THE REVISED COLLETT–LESTER FEAR OF DEATH SCALE

In a study of 144 college students, the factorial structure of the Collett-Lester Fear of Death Scale matched the face content of the subscales quite closely, ameliorating the criticism of the scale by R. A. Neimeyer et al. (2003).
Computer keyboarding biomechanics and acute changes in median nerve indicative of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Abstract Background Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common and costly peripheral neuropathy. Occupations requiring repetitive, forceful motions of the hand and wrist may play a role in the development of carpal tunnel syndrome. Computer keyboarding is one such task, and has been associated with upper-extremity musculoskeletal disorder development. The purpose of this study was to determine whether continuous keyboarding can cause acute changes in the median nerve and whether these changes correlate with wrist biomechanics during keyboarding. Methods A convenience sample of 37 healthy individuals performed a 60-minute typing task. Ultrasound images were collected at baseline, after 30 and 60 min of typing, then after 30 min of rest. Kinematic data were collected during the typing task. Variables of interest were median nerve cross-sectional area, flattening ratio, and swelling ratio at the pisiform; subject characteristics (age, gender, BMI, wrist circumference, typing speed) and wrist joint angles. Findings Cross-sectional area and swelling ratio increased after 30 and 60 min of typing, and then decreased to baseline after 30 min of rest. Peak ulnar deviation contributed to changes in cross-sectional area after 30 min of typing. Interpretation Results from this study confirmed a typing task causes changes in the median nerve, and changes are influenced by level of ulnar deviation. Furthermore, changes in the median nerve are present until cessation of the activity. While it is unclear if these changes lead to long-term symptoms or nerve injury, their existence adds to the evidence of a possible link between carpal tunnel syndrome and keyboarding.
Light, power, space, and sun: Women in landscapes of adventure

Abstract Based on the accounts of four late-twentieth century adventurers, this paper summarizes the values women locate in wilderness expeditions. Women who decide to take on the explorer's role often weigh their achievements against perceived male codes, and seek to balance what they see as masculine styles of adventure with norms springing from female culture. Whether building a cabin in the wilderness, trekking across the desert by camel, sailing alone through the ocean, or climbing an 8,000 meter peak in the Himalayas, these women express similar frustration in dealing with male colleagues, elation in achieving survival skills in the wilderness, and responsibility for reciprocal relations with the natural world encountered.
Bronchiolitis obliterans masquerading as severe persistent asthma in two children

Abstract Rationale The differential diagnosis of persistent wheezing in a child classically includes asthma, gastroesophageal reflux, anatomical abnormalities, and cardiac failure. Bronchiolitis obliterans is a rare but important consideration in the workup of the wheezing patient. Methods/case We report two children with wheezing since infancy and a diagnosis of asthma. Pt A is 13 year-old male with recurrent episodes of wheezing since 7 months of age. His wheezing was aggravated by exercise, but did not occur at night. His symptoms worsened and became persistent despite aggressive treatment with inhaled steroids and beta agonists. Pulmonary function tests revealed FVC 67%, FEV1 37%, FEV1:FVC 68%, PEFR 33%, FEF 25-75 15%. There was no significant change post-bronchodilator treatment. CXR was unremarkable. Patient B is a 6 year-old girl who presented with wheezing at 8 months of age following viral respiratory infections. She had poor response to oral steroid bursts and bronchodilator therapy and her symptoms became a daily problem. Pulmonary function tests showed FVC 48%, FEV1 35%, FEV1:FVC 68%., PEFR 37%, FEF 25-75 48%. CXR revealed only hyperinflation. Results Chest CT of Pt A demonstrated bronchiectasis of the large airways with narrowing and fibrosis of the small airways, consistent with bronchiolitis obliterans. Chest CT of Pt B showed bilateral emphysema with bronchiectasis. Conclusions We present two cases of Bronchiolitis Obliterans masquerading as severe persistent asthma. CT scans are an important part of the evaluation because CXR may be normal and early diagnosis may allow for aggressive treatment.
Cardiotoxicity Induced by Antifungal Drugs

This review addresses the potential of antifungal drugs to cause cardiac toxicity. Many antifungal drugs, especially antifungal azoles, rarely cause torsades de pointes (TdP) and carry the risk of sudden death. Interventions to avoid TdP should include cautious use of azoles in combination with other drugs that cause QTc prolongation, and elimination of risk factors for TdP whenever possible. These risk factors include: hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, severe bradycardia, and preexisting long QT syndrome. ECG monitoring should be considered when the use of multiple QT-prolonging drugs is unavoidable and TdP risk factors cannot be resolved. Itraconazole exhibits negative inotropic activity which may present as worsening heart failure in patients with preexisting heart failure. A few cases of severe bradycardia have also been described with voriconazole. Most cases of cardiac toxicity associated with amphotericin B are due to severe electrolyte abnormalities, rapid administration or overdose. Although cardiac toxicity is not common with the use of antifungal drugs, recognition of the potential to cause serious cardiac-related outcomes, evaluation of risk factors, and monitoring is warranted.
Examining the Social Justice Identity of Assistant Principals in Persistently Low-Achieving Schools

In the context of high-stakes accountability, education-related policy efforts have aimed to address the improvement of persistently low-achieving (PLA) schools via turnaround reform strategies. Such strategies provide opportunities for educational leaders to influence the process; however, limited research examining the role of the assistant principal (AP) exists. This study explored the role of social justice identities of 12 APs in schools labeled as PLA in an urban, Midwestern city. Despite the policy pressures associated with turnaround reform strategies, APs leveraged their social justice identities to create innovative changes in culture and practice within schools. Although all APs perceived themselves as an ally, the extent of the orientation, and whether it leads toward emancipatory education, remains a question.
Natural history of tethered cord in patients with meningomyelocele.

Objective The purpose of this study was to describe the natural history of tethered cord in patients who have undergone meningomyelocele repair. Methods We performed a retrospective review of 45 patients with a history of neonatal meningomyelocele repair who subsequently developed symptoms of tethered cord. Symptoms of tethered cord in this cohort consisted of the development of bladder spasticity or orthopedic foot deformity. None of these patients were treated with cord untethering; instead, they were treated symptomatically. Results On follow-up, 40 (88.9%) of these patients subsequently required additional orthopedic or urological procedures because of further symptoms of tethered cord. The incidence of progression of tethered cord syndrome is 27.5, 40, and 60% at 1, 2, and 5 years, respectively. Conclusion Although this study does not address the question whether cord untethering will prevent further symptom development, these results do provide a strong rationale for consideration of an untethering procedure in patients with repaired meningomyelocele at the time of the onset of symptoms of tethered cord.
Single-Chain Fv/Folate Conjugates Mediate Efficient Lysis of Folate-Receptor-Positive Tumor Cells

Bispecific antibodies that bind to a tumor antigen and the T cell receptor (TCR) redirect cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) to lyse tumor cells which have escaped normal immune recognition mechanisms. One well-characterized tumor antigen, the folate receptor (FR), is expressed on most ovarian carcinomas and some types of brain cancer. Recently, it was shown that conjugates of folate and anti-TCR antibodies are extremely potent bispecific agents that target tumor cells expressing the high-affinity folate receptor, but not normal cells expressing only the reduced folate carrier protein. In this paper, it is shown that the size of these conjugates can be reduced to the smallest bispecific agent yet described (30 kDa) by attaching folate to a single-chain antibody, scFv, of the anti-TCR antibody KJ16. The scFv/folate conjugates are as effective as IgG/folate conjugates in mediating lysis of FR4 tumor cells by CTL. The optimal folate density was in the range of 5-15 folate molecules per scFv or IgG molecule, which yielded half-maximal lysis values (EC50) of approximately 40 pM (1.2 ng/mL for scFv). Finally, the scFv/folate conjugates could efficiently target tumor cells even in the presence of free folic acid at concentrations that are normally found in serum. Compared to conventional bispecific antibodies, the small size of scFv/folate conjugates may prove advantageous in the ability to penetrate tumors and in reduced immunogenicity.
Failed Prophecies, Glorious Hopes

Failed prophecies often make invaluable inspirational reading. Consider two examples: the New Testament and the Communist Manifesto. Both were intended by their authors as predictions of what was going to happen—predictions based on superior knowledge of the forces that determine human history. Both sets of predictions have, so far, been ludicrous flops. Both claims to knowledge have become objects of ridicule. The inspirational value of the New Testament and the Communist Manifesto is not diminished by the fact that many millions of people were enslaved, tortured, or starved to death by sincere, morally earnest people who recited passages from one or the other text to justify their deeds. Christianity and Marxism still have the power to do a great deal of harm, for both the New Testament and the Manifesto can still be effectively quoted by moral hypocrites and egomaniacal gangsters.
Issues of Identity Formation Revisited: United States and The Netherlands

Abstract The Utrecht Study of Adolescent Development (Meeus et al., this issue) provides new data pertinent to issues of identity formation addressed in earlier reviews of the literature, specifically, (a) the direction and timing of identity status development, (b) the relative stability of the identity statuses, and (c) gender differences in identity formation. Despite numerous differences from earlier studies in the samples studied, the instruments used, and the methodologies employed, the findings of the Utrecht study are generally quite consistent with theoretical expectations and previous research outcomes. Because of the size and scope of the Utrecht study, data on possible age differences in the frequency of specific patterns of intraindividual identity status change could be analyzed. This aspect of identity formation had not been previously investigated. Equivocal results were obtained. Possible explanations for the partial failure to confirm this aspect of developmental theory are discussed.
Detection of left ventricular diffuse fibrosis with quantitative T1 mapping in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation

Background: Quantitation of T1 relaxation times (T1 time) is a novel non-invasive CMR technique which can detect both interstitial and replacement fibrosis. T1 changes consistent with interstitial fibrosis have been described in conditions associated with left ventricular (LV) remodeling and systolic dysfunction, including chronic mitral regurgi- tation and aortic stenosis. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is also associated with left ventricular (LV) remodelling. With AF, fibrosis develops in the atrium in AF, but it is unknown whether the same processes occur in the left ventricle. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that patients with paroxys- mal AF would demonstrate CMR evidence of LV fibrosis, exhibiting decreased T1 times compared with control patients.
The menopause and obesity.

Obesity is a major health problem in the United States. It is estimated that 61% of the U.S. population is either overweight or obese (Body Mass Index 25 kg/m 2 ) [1]. According to the most recent National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III, 1988–1994), the prevalence of obesity is substantially higher in women (24.9%) than in men (19.9%) [1]. Additionally, 8.4% of women and 3.9% of men aged 25 to 34 years experience a major weight gain (greater than 10 kg) [2]. For women in the early menopausal years (aged 50 to 59 years), the prevalence of obesity increased by 47% between 1991 and 1998 [3]. Obesity is particularly common among minority women. In NHANES III, nearly 40% of black women and 34% of Mexican-American women had a BMI that was greater than 30 kg/m 2 [1]. Among some Native American groups, more than 50% to 80% of the adult women are obese [4] (p. 142S). Furthermore, among women but not men, poverty or low socioeconomic status is a risk factor for obesity. The prevalence of obesity in women at, or below, the poverty level is approximately 50%, regardless of ethnic group; women in higher income groups have significantly lower prevalence rates [4] (p. 146S). At any level of BMI, women have a greater percentage of body fat than men, so a woman’s risk of being ‘‘overfat’’ is higher, even at BMIs that are within the normal range. For example, Blew et al [5] recently assessed the relationship between BMI and percentage of fat in 317 postmenopausal women aged 40 to 66 years. Using 38% fat as a criterion for obesity, the cutoff BMI in this population was 24.9 kg/m 2 . Wellens et al [6] similarly suggested that a BMI of 23 kg/m 2 might provide a better cutoff for defining obesity in premenopausal white women, based on their percentage of body fat.
Adolescent language brokering in diverse contexts: associations with parenting and parent-youth relationships in a new immigrant destination area.

In the US, children in immigrant families have a longstanding history of language brokering for their parents. Scholars have surmised that youth’s role in language brokering may influence the nature of parenting practices and parent–child relationships that are important to the positive adjustment of adolescent youth. Research findings in this regard, however, have been mixed. Drawing from the family stress model and the concept of adolescent helpfulness, the present study examined how language brokering across different contexts—school, community, and home—was associated with indicators of parental support and parental behavioral control. The sample included 118 (53 % female) primarily Mexican- and Central American-origin 7th, 9th, and 11th grade children in Latino immigrant families living in suburban Atlanta, an important new immigrant destination. The results from structural equation models indicated that language brokering at home—translations for items such as bills, credit card statements, and insurance forms—was associated with less parental decision-making authority, lower levels of parental knowledge, and less parent–child closeness. Language brokering pertinent to school and community contexts, on the other hand, was not associated with variations in parenting. The adverse consequences for parenting conferred by youth translating insurance forms and family financial bills may stem from the excessive cognitive demands placed on youth in these situations, as well as the elevated power that youth gain in relationship to their immigrant parents. For the country’s rapidly growing population of youth being raised by immigrant Latino parents, it is important to consider that youth’s role as language broker at home may affect closeness in the parent–child relationship as well as the degree to which parents are able to maintain authority over youth’s behaviors.
Convergence of posterior probabilities in the Bayesian inference strategy

The formalism of operational statistics, a generalized approach to probability and statistics, provides a setting within which inference strategies can be studied with great clarity. This paper is concerned with the asymptotic behavior of the Bayesian inference strategy in this setting. We consider a sequence of posterior distributions, obtained from a prior as a result of successive conditionings by the events of an admissible sequence. We identify certain statistical hypotheses whose limiting posterior probabilities converge to one. We describe these hypotheses, and show that when the prior is vague, they contain those probability models which represent the long-run relative frequencies of occurrence for the events in the sequence.
Mortality of Lingcod Towed in a Net as Related to FishLength, Seawater Temperature, and Air Exposure: ALaboratory Bycatch Study

Abstract The mortality of discarded bycatch is a critical problem in the management of fisheries worldwide. Little is known about the key principles involved in the mortality of discarded bycatch. These principles are best elaborated under controlled conditions in the laboratory where the actions and interactions of stressors found in fishing practices can be investigated independently. The goal of this study was to investigate the principles involved in the mortality of lingcod Ophiodon elongatus by testing hypotheses concerning the factors that may control trawl bycatch mortality. Lingcod were towed in a net and exposed to increased seawater temperature and to air, two stressors that occur during the processes of trawl capture, retrieval through a thermocline, and landing on deck. Mortality occurred after exposure to more than 45 min in air, after exposure to 4 h towing in a net followed by more than 30 min in air, or after 4 h towing followed by exposure to seawater above 16.0°C for 30 min and air for ...
Study of K - p-->K * (890)n at 13 GeV

The results of a wire chamber spectrometer experiment studying K∗ (890) production in the reaction K−p→ K−π+n at 13 GeV are presented. Strong forward structure is observed for |t|< m2π in the s-channel density matrix elements and differential cross section. These features are similar to those observed in π−p→ϱ0n data and are characteristics of π exchange. In contrast in the intermediate, |t| ∼ 0.2 GeV2, and large momentum transfer regions K∗ (890) production is demonstrated by the natural parity ϱ−A2 exchange contribution.
Measurement uncertainties in filter and low-loss measurements

The author of this paper extends the understanding of measurement uncertainty by introducing new terms to the standard error models, and provides practical understanding to the importance of error sources and DUT characteristics in interpreting the quality of real-world measurements.
Building multiple adsorption sites in porous polymer networks for carbon capture applications

IAST calculations reveal that sulfonate ammonium salt grafting renders porous polymer networks (PPN-6-SO3NH4) with exceptionally high adsorption selectivity for CO2 over N2 and CO2 over CH4. Breakthrough experiments confirm the high CO2 adsorption capacity (1.7 mmol g−1, 75 mg g−1) by feeding 15% CO2 balanced with N2 at 295 K and 1 bar.
Ultrasonic measurement of the bending of a bolt in a shear joint

An ultrasonic pulse/echo technique is used to measure preload in bolts used in structural joints. In this paper, the same instrument is used in a different way to measure change in the ultrasonic measurements due to bending in the bolts. A theory that explains the ultrasonic measurements is developed. The bending loads result in a rotation and a translation of the ultrasonic pulse reflecting face. It also creates a stress gradient in the bolt. This results in a phase variation (or gradient) in the received ultrasonic beam across the face of the transducer. It also results in a physical shift in the received beam relative to the ultrasonic transducer. The phase gradient and the shift in the beam results in change in the pulse travel time. A number of experiments were performed on the bolt to study the effect of the bending on the ultrasonic measurements. The experiments and the theory validate a sensitive new method for measuring the bending loads in the bolts.