cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Incorporating Literature And Big Questions Into Non-Literature Courses

Location: JC Room G During the 2018 fall semester, GMU School of Business instructors found that an interdisciplinary approach through the integration of literature and business produced new insights among our students on ethical decision-making in two courses we feature in the Business Foundations Area. Specifically, we learned that these narratives enhanced student understanding of the complex ethical questions surrounding stakeholder involvement and sustainable development decisions. In Business and Society, a course designed to introduce students to the complex relationships among large US corporations and a broad range of stakeholders, we experienced good results incorporating the novel March by Congressman John Lewis. Through its depiction of the social and emotional life of a young African American living in the segregated South, this narrative provides alternative representations of the modern business enterprise and what it represented to minority Americans in terms of doctrines of prosperity and economic opportunity We incorporated a discussion and written assignment of the first of his three graphic novels in a class session we feature on the ethics of relationships between businesses and consumers. Many students were surprised from this first-person narrative of the extent of the limitations African-Americans faced as consumers and how recently these were in place in the United States. Other students gained new insights into the impact of the boycotts John Lewis and colleagues organized. In a second course, Business 200: Global Environment of Business, we introduced on a trial basis the novel How to Get Filthy Rich in Rising Asia by Mohsin Hamid to present competing views of ethical gray areas as they pertain to sustainable development in the developing world. Previously, we had focused exclusively on the visionary tale of sustainable development in the developed world as presented in the book Cradle to Cradle by Michael Braungart and William McDonough. We found that comparing and contrasting the ethical decision-making in a developing world economy with that of a developed world exposed students to visions and values of others within the context of their own aspirations and values. In addition, we noticed that the introduction of the second book enriched the dialogue between our US-born and foreign-born studentsâmany of whom spent childhood years in a developing-world settingâconcerning what constitutes ethical decision making, what sustainable development goals can be addressed in the short term and long term, and how business leader decision-making and obligations might align and differ in the two diverse settings.
Interactive Multisensory Data Representation

Large data sets require new forms of data representation that reduce the complexity of the information, and help users identify trends and communicate the meaning of the data to diverse audiences. With multisensory data design, it is possible to increase the number of variables and relationships that can be represented simultaneously. Sound, touch, gesture, and movement can enhance the perception of data relationships. Complex data sets also require new ways of organizing databases that encourage the development of new perspectives and facilitate collaboration. Audiovisual metadata is an alternative to text-based metadata that supports data exploration by providing a flexible format for database organization. With these new approaches to data representation, it is important to understand the semiotics of multisensory data design.
RTN induced frequency shift measurements using a ring oscillator based circuit

The impact of random telegraph noise on ring oscillator (ROSC) frequency was measured for the first time using an on-chip beat frequency detection system. The proposed differential sensing scheme achieves a high frequency measurement resolution (>0.01%) at a short sampling time (>1μs) allowing efficient collection of RTN induced frequency shifts. Experimental data from a ROSC array fabricated in a 65nm LP process display both single trap and multi-trap RTN behavior. The voltage dependencies of the frequency shift and capture/emission times were measured and analyzed.
A comparison of washed and volume-reduced platelets with respect to platelet activation, aggregation, and plasma protein removal.

BACKGROUND: Washed or volume-reduced platelets (PLTs) are occasionally requested for patients with a history of allergic or anaphylactic transfusion reactions. However, conclusive data are not available as to which method is more suitable. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A direct comparison of saline-washed and volume-reduced PLTs was performed by splitting 11 units of 6-day-old apheresis PLT units. PLT activation, aggregation, plasma protein, and PLT count were determined before and after each procedure. To assess whether washing using neutral, calcium-free Ringer's acetate (NRA) would better preserve PLT function, 8 additional units of apheresis PLTs were split and were washed in saline or NRA. RESULTS: Saline washing resulted in significantly increased number of activated, P-selectin-expressing PLTs compared to volume reduction (24.2% vs. 10.3%, p = 0.001). Aggregation was also significantly reduced (-40.6% vs. -0.8%, p = 0.004). Plasma protein removal was significantly better for saline-washed than volume-reduced PLTs (96% vs. 51.1%, p < 0.001). PLT recovery was not significantly different for saline-washed versus volume-reduced PLTs (70.5% vs. 80.7%, p = 0.079). There was no difference between washing in saline or NRA with regard to PLT activation and loss of aggregation. CONCLUSIONS: PLT washing with saline or NRA significantly increases PLT activation and decreases PLT aggregability. On the other hand, volume reduction does not adequately remove plasma proteins. Therefore, PLT washing should be reserved for patients with a history of severe allergic or anaphylactic transfusion reactions. We suggest that fresher PLTs be selected to improve the functionality of washed PLTs.
Using plan reasoning in the generation of plan descriptions

Previous work on the generation of natural language descriptions of complex activities has indicated that the unwieldy amount of text needed to describe complete plans makes for ineffective and unnatural descriptions. We argue here that concise and effective text descriptions of plans can be generated by exploiting a model of the hearer's plan reasoning capabilities. We define a computational model of the hearer's interpretation process that views the interpretation of plan descriptions as refinement search through a space of partial plans. This model takes into account the hearer's plan preferences and the resource limitations on her reasoning capabilities to determine the completed plans she will construct from a given partial description.
Evolution’s Witness: How Eyes Evolved

Evolution’s Witness: How the Eyes Evolved is a remarkable book. It comes out shortly after the 200th anniversary of Charles Darwin’s birth and the 150th anniversary of the publication of On the Ori...
The effect of denture cleansing solutions on the retention of pink locator attachments after multiple pulls: an in vitro study.

Purpose: The effect of denture cleansing solutions and multiple pulls on the retention of pink Locator patrices was studied. Materials and Methods: Five groups of pink Locator attachments (3.0 lb. Light Retention replacement patrix attachments; five in each group) were soaked for the equivalent of 6 months of clinical use in the following solutions: water (control), Efferdent, Polident Overnight, 6.15% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCL, 1:10 dilution), and Listerine mouthwash. A universal testing machine set at a 2 in/min crosshead speed was used to perform 548 pulls (548 cycles of insertion and removal). The reduction in load to dislodgement (retention) after the initial pull and the final pull and the percent reduction in retention after 6 months were compared between the groups using a one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's Honestly Significant Difference (HSD) Test (α= 0.05). Results: Denture cleansing solutions significantly reduced the retentive values of pink Locator attachments after the initial pull (F = 17.435, p < 0.0001). The retentive values of Efferdent, Listerine, Polident Overnight, and water were significantly higher than the retentive value of the attachments soaked in NaOCl. After 6 months of simulated use (548 pulls), the four denture cleansing solutions had significant effects on the retentive values of pink Locator attachments (F = 5.855, p = 0.003). The retentive values for attachments soaked in NaOCl (7.29 ± 1.0 N) were significantly lower than those of attachments soaked in Listerine (15.82 ± 4.7 N) and in Polident Overnight (14.41 ± 3.6 N). These cleansing solutions also had a significant effect on the percentage of retention lost (F = 3.271, p = 0.032). The loss of retention in attachments soaked in Listerine (29 ± 9%) was significantly lower than attachments soaked in water (53 ± 12%). The loss of retention in attachments soaked in Efferdent was 49 ± 9%; in Polident Overnight, 34 ± 18%; and in NaOCl, 42 ± 11%. There was no significant difference in the percentage of retention loss between water, Efferdent, NaOCl, and Polident Overnight. There was also no significant difference in the percentage of retention loss between Efferdent, NaOCl, Polident Overnight, and Listerine. Conclusion: NaOCl significantly decreased the retentive value of Locators. Therefore, it should not be routinely recommended for use as a denture cleanser. Listerine significantly increased the retention of the Locator attachments; however, it is premature to recommend Listerine for use as a denture cleanser.
The combined effects of band-to-band tunneling and impact ionization in the off regime of an LDD MOSFET

Fully self-consistent two-dimensional simulation of band-to-band tunneling (BTBT) in a lightly doped drain (LDD) MOSFET is reported. The simulation results are compared to experimental data and explain the observed current leakage effects. At low drain bias the leakage currents in the off regime can be explained by BTBT alone. At high drain bias and at deep subthreshold gate bias the leakage current is increasingly due to avalanche generation by carriers created initially in BTBT and accelerated subsequently in the high electric fields. >
Fungal peritonitis in patients receiving peritoneal dialysis: Experience with 11 patients and review of the literature

Despite progress in decreasing the incidence of and improving the therapy for bacterial peritonitis in patients receiving peritoneal dialysis, fungal peritonitis has emerged as a relatively common infection. Hospitalization, recent prior episodes of peritonitis, and antibacterial therapy appear to predispose patients to this infection. Clinically, fungal peritonitis cannot be differentiated from bacterial peritonitis except by gram stain and culture of the dialysate. The most commonly made serious error is the failure to initiate appropriate therapy quickly enough on the basis of these diagnostic parameters. For patients who no longer require dialysis, those for whom a change to hemodialysis is preferred, and those with concomitant life-threatening illness, the recommended therapy for fungal peritonitis is removal of the dialysis catheter and the institution of therapy with systemic antifungal agents. For patients who are hemodynamically and metabolically stable and for whom continued peritoneal dialysis is desirable, a trial of antifungal chemotherapy before removal of the catheter may be indicated.
Academic Degrees and Clinical Practice Characteristics: The University of Washington Physician Assistant Program: 1969-2000

Context: The physician assistant profession has been moving toward requiring master ' s degrees for new practitioners, but some argue this could change the face of the discipline. Purpose: To see if there is an association between physician assistants ' academic degrees and practice in primary care, in rural areas, and with the medically underserved. Methods: Surveys were sent to 880 graduates of the fi rst 32 University of Washington physician assistant classes through 2000. Respondents noted their academic degree at program entry and the highest degree attained at any time up to the time of survey. Relationships between practice characteristics and academic degree levels were tested by unadjusted odds ratios and logistic regression after controlling for year of graduation and sex. Results: Of the 478 respondents, 54% worked in primary care, about 30% practiced in nonmetropolitan communities, and 42% reported providing care for the medically underserved. Respondents with no degree (33% of total at entry, 24% at survey) were signifi cantly more likely than degree holders to work in primary care and nonmetropolitan areas. Respondents with no degree at program entry were signifi cantly more likely, and those with no degree at the time of the survey were marginally more likely, to self- report work with the medically underserved. Conclusion: Respondents with no academic degree are signifi cantly more likely to demonstrate a commitment to primary, rural, and underserved health care. These fi ndings may inform the national debate about the impact of required advanced degrees on the practice patterns of nonphysician providers. Report, the American Academy of Physician Assistants noted that 61,891 PAs were eligible for practice, and when surveyed, 19% of respondents were working in nonmetropolitan counties and 8% in federally qualifi ed health centers or community health facilities. 1 The
Exclusivity and Tying in U.S. v. Microsoft: What We Know, and Don't Know

Research on capital structure attempts to explain how corporations finance real investment, with particular emphasis on the proportions of debt vs. equity financing. There is no universal theory of the debt-equity choice, and no reason to expect one. But three useful conditional theories are reviewed in this paper. The tradeoff theory says that firms seek debt levels that balance the tax advantages of additional debt against the costs of possible financial distress. The pecking order theory says that the firm will borrow, rather than issuing equity, when internal cash flow is not sufficient to fund capital expenditures. Thus, the amount of debt will reflect the firm's cumulative need for external funds. The free cash flow theory says that dangerously high debt levels will increase value, despite the threat of financial distress. Each of these theories "works" for some firms in some circumstances. More general theories will require a deeper understanding of the financial objectives of corporate managers.
The influence of Down’s syndrome on the management and outcome of children with Hirschsprung’s disease

Abstract Background Children with Down’s syndrome (DS) have a reportedly poorer outcome after treatment of Hirschsprung’s disease (HD) compared with control children. Because of overall improvements in their management, the authors hypothesized that the diagnosis of DS would not influence outcome after the management of HD. Methods Consecutive children with HD (1995 through 2002) were collected prospectively then divided retrospectively into those with DS and controls (C). Patients who underwent surgery at another institution and those with total colonic aganglionosis were excluded. Results Of 66 patients, 9 had DS. Mean age at diagnosis, gender, racial distribution, gestational age, and proximity to our center were similar between groups. Presenting symptoms, location of the transition zone, and type of initial operation were similar. Patients with DS had significantly more comorbidities than controls, which generated significantly greater treatment costs and a higher mortality rate. However, with an average of 22 months of follow-up, the overall outcome including postoperative complications, enterocolitis, and constipation was similar. Conclusions These data suggest that in contrast to earlier reports, DS has minimal influence on surgical outcome of patients with HD. Although the overall cost of treating patients with DS is greater, this mainly reflects the impact of managing comorbidities.
Self-Monitoring and Beliefs about Partner Compatibility in Romantic Relationships

Self-monitoring differences in the manner in which people assess the compatibility of couples as romantic partners were explored. On the basis of previous research, we hypothesized that high, in contrast to low, self-monitoring individuals focus relatively more on the match between the levels of physical attractiveness of a couple when assessing compatibility. Low, in contrast to high, self-monitors were expected to focus relatively more on the similarity between the personality traits and interests of a couple when assessing compatibility. High -and low-self-monitoring participants were given photographs and personality information about 5 men and 5 women. Participants indicated the five couples they felt were most compatible by using the 10 targets to create five couple pairings. As predicted, high, relative to low, self-monitors created matches in which targets were more similar in ratings of physical attractiveness while low, relative to high, self-monitors created matches in which targets were more s...
A technical assessment of CO2 Interim Storage in deep saline aquifers

Abstract CO 2 Interim Storage (CIS) involves storing carbon dioxide in subsurface reservoirs for a finite period of time to be subsequently withdrawn and utilized in enhanced oil recovery (EOR) or other industrial processes. Through its potential role in matching CO 2 supply and demand and buffering any variability in each, CIS could facilitate the expansion of EOR operations in a number of small and dispersed oil fields, and it could reduce the cost of carbon capture and storage (CCS) by allowing increased flexibility in CO 2 capture and economies of scale in transportation infrastructure. This study identifies and assesses the technical challenges and energy requirements of CO 2 Interim Storage by examining two scenarios simulating different patterns of variable CO 2 injection and production in an underground saline aquifer. The results from reservoir modeling show that the pressure buildup and CO 2 plume associated with variable injection are similar to those of constant injection, and the overall variability in pressure transients reduces away from the injection site and as injection proceeds with time. The position of injection and production zones along the well plays a significant role in controlling CO 2 plume migration; injection throughout the entire reservoir thickness can prevent early water invasion into the well. Furthermore, CIS presents some unique tradeoffs. On the downside, water vaporization by injected CO 2 leads to salt accumulation in the aquifer after every production-then-injection sequence, which is not commonly experienced in underground natural gas storage. High and rapidly fluctuating injection and production rates accelerate salt buildup and may block the flow near the well. On the upside, the same water vaporization phenomenon facilitates the formation of a dry-out zone near the well, which, under relatively high injection and low production rates, allows the recovery of dry CO 2 while preventing the undesirable liquid-water production. Still, a clear compromise exists between produced CO 2 purity and overall CO 2 recovery. In the well, lower water-cut leads to lower pressure drop during CO 2 production, thus reducing the overall energy penalty for interim storage. The energy needed to dehydrate and recompress the produced CO 2 is estimated to be around 88.6 kJ/kg; compared to CO 2 capture and compression, the energy costs for interim storage are small but not insignificant.
Determinants of Survival 10 to 14 Years after Coronary Bypass: Analysis of Preoperative Variables in 1,448 Patients

To determine which preoperative variables were most predictive of long-term survival after coronary bypass surgery, the status of 1,448 consecutive patients was determined 10 to 14 years after operation. All patients were operated on at least 10 years ago and follow-up at 10 years was 93.8% complete. The overall 14-year survival probabilities were: for one-vessel disease, 73.3%; for two-vessel disease, 45.9%; for three-vessel disease, 34.2%; and for left main coronary artery disease, 41.9%. Patients with good left ventricular function had an overall survival rate of 53.3%, and patients with poor ventricular function had a survival rate of 31.9%. Preoperative variables predictive of greater risk of total mortality were: digoxin usage, multivessel disease, poor quality of left ventricular function, age at operation, electrocardiographic evidence of myocardial infarction, previous stroke, diabetes, heart failure, diuretic usage, cigarette smoking, and residual ungrafted coronary artery disease. The major determinants of long-term survival were variables associated with preoperative left ventricular function. Diabetes was the only important metabolic risk factor identified. This study suggests that unfavorable preoperative conventional risk factors should not be considered a contraindication to operation in patients with adequate coronary anatomy and left ventricular function.
Natural Theology and the Qur'an

While the Qur'an's doctrine of naskh means that the particulars of a revealed text were significant, the Qur'an's discussion of humans’ fiṭra and ḥunafāʾ (s. ḥanīf), along with its evocation of the wonders of creation as evidence of God's existence and power, meant that at least some of the Qur'an's message might not have to depend on a specific revealed text. Thus, the import of the Qur'an's references to order in nature has long been a question probed by commentators. This article will examine the responses of the mufassir and mutakallim al-Bayḍāwī (d. c. 1300) who wrote a tafsīr informed by kalām at a time when kalām texts, including al-Bayḍāwī’s, began to incorporate the approach and findings of falsafa and natural science. Al-Bayḍāwī’s comments on Q. 21:32 held that one could learn more about signs (āyāt) of God's greatness through physics and astronomy. Then, in his interpretation of Q. 2:164, al-Bayḍāwī referred to the technical terminology of astronomy in order to argue that while there was order ...
Role of Stenting for Intracranial Atherosclerosis in the Post-SAMMPRIS Era

Introduction. The initial promise of endovascular stenting for the treatment of intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD) has been tempered by the results of the SAMMPRIS trial which demonstrated better outcomes with medical management compared to stenting for symptomatic ICAD. We review post-SAMMPRIS ICAD stenting outcomes. Methods. A comprehensive literature search was performed using PubMed to identify all ICAD stenting series published after the SAMMPRIS in September 2011. The type and design of the stent, number of patients and lesions, inclusion criteria, and clinical and angiographic outcomes were noted. Results. From October 2011 to August 2013, 19 ICAD stenting series were identified describing the interventional outcomes for 2,196 patients with 2,314 lesions. Of the 38 different stents used, 87% were balloon-expandable stents (BESs) and 13% were self-expanding stents. The median minimum stenosis was 50%. The median rates of technical success rate, postprocedural ischemic events, and symptomatic in-stent restenosis (ISR) were 98% (range 87–100%), 9.4% (range 0–25%), and 2.7% (range 0–11.1%), respectively. The median follow-up durations were one to 67 months. Conclusions. The management of severe ICAD remains controversial. Future trials are needed to define the optimal patient, lesion, and stent characteristics which will portend the best outcomes with intervention.
A Raman scattering and far-infrared magneto-absorption study of donors in a quasi-two-dimensional electron gas

Abstract We report Raman scattering and far-infrared magneto-absorption measurements of GaAs/AlGaAs quantum-well structures selectively doped with donors both in the wells and in the barriers. The resulting system, consisting of a small number of donors immersed in a degenerate electron gas, is studied through the intersubband transition spectra at two electron concentrations. An extra peak at the intersubband transition in the lower density sample is attributed to donors. Its energy relative to the free intersubband transition gives information on the form of screening in quasi-2D. At higher electron density this peak is not observed, however, a new, broad feature is measured. A tentative explanation for this scattering is suggested involving single particle scattering induced by the donors. Magneto-absorption, in contrast to Raman scattering, shows donor features in both samples. This is possibly explained by magnetic freezeout of the donors in the magnetic field.
Gegenwärtiger Stand der Pankreastransplantation

Die Pankreastransplantation stellt zwischenzeitlich ein klinisch etabliertes Therapieverfahren dar. Vor allem bei niereninsuffizienten Typ-1-Diabetikern ist die simultane Pankreas-Nierentransplanta...
Caspase Inhibitor Infusion Protects an Avian Song Control Circuit from Seasonal-Like Neurodegeneration

Sex steroids such as androgens and estrogens have trophic effects on the brain and can ameliorate neurodegeneration, and the withdrawal of circulating steroids induces neurodegeneration in several hormone-sensitive brain areas. Very little is known about the underlying molecular mechanisms that mediate neuronal regression caused by hormone-withdrawal, however. Here we show that reduction of programmed cell death by local infusion of caspase inhibitors rescues a telencephalic nucleus in the adult avian song control system from neurodegeneration that is induced by hormone withdrawal. This treatment also has trans-synaptic effects that provide some protection of an efferent target region. We found that unilateral infusion of caspase inhibitors in vivo in adult white-crowned sparrows rescued neurons within the hormone-sensitive song nucleus HVC (used as a proper name) from programmed cell death for as long as seven days after withdrawal of testosterone and a shift to short-day photoperiod and that the activation of caspase-3 was reduced by 59% on average in the ipsilateral HVC compared with the unmanipulated contralateral HVC. Caspase inhibitor infusion near HVC was sufficient to preserve neuron size ipsilaterally in a downstream nucleus, the robust nucleus of the arcopallium. This is the first report that sustained local application of caspase inhibitors can protect a telencephalic brain area from neurodegeneration in vivo and that a degenerating neural circuit rescued with caspase inhibitors produces sufficient trophic support to protect attributes of a downstream target that would otherwise degenerate. These results strengthen the case for the possible therapeutic use of caspase inhibitors under certain neurodegenerative conditions.
A diabetes insipidus-like syndrome in the intact Yucatan miniature boar following implantation of desoxycorticosterone-acetate (DOCA).

Abstract 1. 1. A syndrome of polydipsia and polyuria is described in the intact adult Yucatan miniature boar following implantation of silicone rubber strips impregnated with desoxycorticosterone-acetate (DOCA). 2. 2. Water intake was significantly greater than control 5 days post-DOCA. 3. 3. Urine output was significantly greater than control 7 days post-DOCA, and urine osmolality was significantly decreased 8 days post-DOCA. 4. 4. Serum potassium was significantly less than control 24 hr post-DOCA, and serum sodium was consistently and significantly greater than control by 1 week post-DOCA. 5. 5. As suggested in the dog, the increase in water turnover following DOCA administration in the pig is initiated by an increased thirst followed by an increase in urine output.
Public health and the control of high blood pressure at the state level: asleep at the switch or running low on fuel?

In the United States today, we know a great deal about the burden of high blood pressure (BP) and the inadequacy of its prevention and control at the national level.1 The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), created through authorizing legislation of the National Health Survey Act of 1956, collects directly measured and self-reported data relevant to biological risk factors for cardiovascular disease, including high BP. Beginning in the early 1960s, NHANES has periodically provided health data (by number and percentage) on the US population, designated subgroups with high BP, and tracked trends in the prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control of this condition.2 In 1999, the program became a continuously running survey designed to collect data on a nationally representative sample of ≈5000 individuals for each year of the survey with release of data in 2-year cycles.3 Article p 905 Through the NHANES surveys, we now know that high BP affects >65 million adult Americans and that its prevalence has increased since the 1988 to 1994 period.4,5 We also know that the overall BP control rate has increased significantly among men and women, non-Hispanic blacks, and Mexican Americans.4,5 Although these national data are useful and encouraging, they do not tell us about the disease burden and level of BP control at the state or local level. But why might the additional knowledge of state or local burden of high BP be important? As much of a cliche as it may be, all health care is truly local. The availability of local-level or state-level data to inform policy and program development and decision making in the prevention and control of high BP is thus crucial.6 In addition, the social, environmental, and demographic determinants of population BP levels vary by state and likely contribute to …
The Political Paranoid in Contemporary Politics

In this brief essay, I take up Hofstadter's The Paranoid Style in American Politics (1964) to discuss key social and psychic energies at work across the United States today. Although they have longstanding roots in the United States, these paranoid tendencies have only intensified in recent years. I see this in two, intertwined ways-new social and psychic vulnerabilities as well as the rise of so-called "eliminationist" rhetoric.
Direct bandgap germanium nanowires inferred from 5.0% uniaxial tensile strain

We report uniaxial tensile strains up to 5.0% in lithographically patterned germanium nanowires, which is enough strain to make germanium a direct bandgap semiconductor. Theoretically, this strain can reduce a germanium laser's threshold by >16,000x.
Sputtered, oxygenated CdS window layers for higher current in CdS/CdTe thin film solar cells

The efficiency of manufactured CdS/CdTe photovoltaic modules can be greatly improved through better collection of available current from the solar spectrum. Typically, only light absorbed in the CdTe absorber layer is collected by the device and light absorption in other layers is lost. A major loss occurs in the CdS window layer, which is strongly absorbing for photon energies above 2.4 ev. RF sputter deposition of CdS in the presence of oxygen has been shown to increase transmission in this spectral region, leading to higher device current. In this work films were examined for transmission and stability upon heating to process temperatures. Numerous devices were made from oxygenated CdS films which showed increased quantum efficiency at wavelengths below 500 nm.
Factors influencing engineers' perceptions of organizational support for innovation

Abstract This study focuses on the factors that influence the extent to which engineers dealing with routine, analyzable task related problems perceive the organizational climate as supporting innovation and the development of new answers. It is argued that when engineers are able to successfully deal with various degrees of perceived task uncertainty, the climate will be perceived as supportive of innovation. The results indicate that the relationship between task uncertainty and perceived support for innovation is moderated by the amount of formalization, the degree of decision centralization, and an individual's information processing style. Indeed, for these engineers, formalization is seen in a positive light since procedures are available that can be used to deal with task-related problems.
Valuing of Identity, Distribution of Attention, and Perceptual Salience in Free and Rule-Governed Classifications

This experiment investigated classifications of multidimensional objects to test whether (1) the valuing of identity as a classification criterion occurs early in development, (2) the distribution of attention to multiple relations increases with development, and (3) the role of separate, component relations in solving multidimensional classification problems would be manifested through measures of perceptual salience. A salience preassessment followed by free and rule-governed classification tasks were given to 4-, 7-, and 18-year-olds. Total identity, partial identity, overall similar, or overall different choices were available for classification. Results associated with both free and rule-governed classifications indicated that identity serves as a highly valued classification criterion beginning as early as 4 years of age. Results associated with salience indicated that children as young as 4 years perceive and process relations separately and that 4-year-olds show greater differential attention than older children and adults.
Die thermal behavior in machine casting of partially solid high temperature alloys

Experimental measurements and computer simulations of die thermal behavior during machine (die) casting of fully liquid and partially solid bronze alloy 905 were carried out. Ingots of the alloy were heated to temperatures above the liquidus and in the liquidsolid range in a reheat furnace. The partially solidified charge was previously made in a continuous slurry producer. Castings were made in both a low pressure laboratory machine and a high pressure commercial die casting machine. In both casting machines used, the maximum die temperature and the initial rate of temperature change in the die, at ∼0.014 in. from the casting-die interface, were significantly lower when a partially solid charge material was used. For example, measured die temperatures in the high pressure commercial machine were 475°C and 165°C above the initial die temperature when the bronze alloy was cast in the 100°C superheated state and the partially solid (volume fraction solid ∼0.57) state, respectively. Correlation of computer predictions and measured die temperatures have been used to calculate values of the heat transfer coefficient at the casting-die interface. Using these values, the maximum die surface temperature and die surface temperature gradients are calculated. The values of maximum surface temperature obtained are 800°C and 315°C for a superheated (100°C) liquid charge and a partially solid (volume fraction solid ∼0.57) charge, respectively. The corresponding surface temperature gradients are 5640°C/cm and 718°C/cm, respectively. The reduced thermal shock experienced by the die when a partially solid metal alloy is cast should improve die life considerably over conventional practice.
Critical-field anisotropy and fluctuation conductivity in granular aluminum films

We have measured the upper critical field ${H}_{c2}(\ensuremath{\theta})$ for extreme type-II granular aluminum films much thicker than the coherence length and have found them to display a strong temperature-dependent anisotropy ($\frac{{H}_{\ensuremath{\parallel}}}{{H}_{\ensuremath{\perp}}}\ensuremath{\gg}1$). The temperature dependence of the parallel critical field, ${H}_{\ensuremath{\parallel}} (T)$, shows an infinite slope near ${T}_{c}$, which we interpret as an indication that these films have a layered structure. The perpendicular critical field, ${H}_{\ensuremath{\perp}}(T)$, has an upward curvature, reminiscent of the behavior observed in ${(\mathrm{SN})}_{x}$ and some layered compounds. As a result, the anisotropy ratio decreases strongly as the temperature is lowered. We interpret this behavior as a transition towards zero dimensionality (decoupled grains). We have also measured the fluctuation conductivity ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{s}$ above ${T}_{c}$. We find that, for films with high values of normal-state resistivity, ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{s}$ follows a power law characteristic of zero dimensionality far above ${T}_{c}$, and characteristic of two dimensionality closer to ${T}_{c}$, in agreement with the proposed interpretation of the critical-field data.
Dengue hemorrhagic fever-associated immunomediators induced via maturation of dengue virus nonstructural 4B protein in monocytes modulate endothelial cell adhesion molecules and human microvascular endothelial cells permeability

We previously demonstrated that dengue virus (DENV) nonstructural 4B protein (NS4B) induced dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF)-associated immunomediators in THP-1 monocytes. Moreover, cleavage of NS4AB polyprotein by the NS2B3 protease, significantly increased immunomediator production to levels found after DENV infection. In this report using primary human microvascular endothelial cells (HMVEC) transwell permeability model and HMVEC monolayer, we demonstrate that the immunomediators secreted in the supernatants of DENV-infected monocytes increase HMVEC permeability and expression of ICAM-1, VCAM-1 and E-selectin. Moreover, maturation of NS4B via cleavage of 2KNS4B is sufficient to induce immunomediators that cause HMVEC phenotypic changes, which appear to be synergistically induced by TNFα and IL-8. These data suggest that therapies targeting the maturation steps of NS4B, particularly 2KNS4B processing, may reduce overall DHF-associated immunomediator levels, thereby reducing DHF-associated morbidity and mortality. Alternatively, TNFα inhibitors may be a valid intervention strategy during the later stages of infection to prevent DHF progression.
The Evidence‐Based Practice Beliefs and Implementation Scales: Psychometric Properties of Two New Instruments

Background: Implementation of evidence-based practice (EBP) by health professionals is a key strategy for improving health care quality and patient outcomes as well as increasing professional role satisfaction. However, it is estimated that only a small percentage of nurses and other health care providers are consistently using this approach to clinical practice. Aim: The aim of this study was to report on the development and psychometric properties of two new scales: (1) the 16-item EBP Beliefs Scale that allows measurement of a person's beliefs about the value of EBP and the ability to implement it, and (2) the 18-item EBP Implementation Scale that allows measurement of the extent to which EBP is implemented. Methods: Nurses (N= 394) attending continuing education workshops volunteered to complete the scales. Data were analysed to evaluate reliability and validity of both instruments. Results: Cronbach's alpha was > .90 for each scale. Principal components analysis indicated that each scale allowed measurement of a unidimensional construct. Strength of EBP beliefs and the extent of EBP implementation increased as educational level increased (p < .001) and as responsibility in the workplace increased (p < .001). Conclusion: In this study, initial evidence was provided to support the reliability and validity of the EBP Beliefs and Implementation Scales in a heterogeneous sample of practicing nurses. Evidence to Action: Use of the scales in future research could generate evidence to guide EBP implementation strategies in practice and education. Results could establish the extent to which EBP is being implemented and its effect on clinician satisfaction and patient outcomes.
The Assessment of Hormone Receptors in Breast Cancer by Immunohistochemistry

There are currently three prognostic/predictive biomarkers used in the routine clinical management of patients with breast cancer, and their assessment is mandatory. They include the estrogen receptor-alpha (ERα), the progesterone receptor (PR), and the erbB2/Her-2 oncogene/oncoprotein. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is the most commonly used method of assessing these factors, and there are both advantages and persistent problems with using IHC in this setting. Important advantages include the ability to make assessments on routinely available formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue, relatively low cost, and outstanding sensitivity and specificity. Significant problems include inadequate technical standardization and insufficient clinical validation for some of the IHC assays being utilized. This paper briefly reviews the assessment of ERα and PR by IHC in breast cancer, with special emphasis on issues relating to standardization and validation.
Information Warfare and Domestic Threats to America Security

Much concern has been expressed about disturbing domestic developments associated with the “War on Terrorism” that represent some erosion of American values - the general theme being that if the terrorists lead us to abandon or compromise some of our fundamental freedoms then they have won. However, there is an older theme in American political history that has been neglected: a national preoccupation with foreign affairs leads to bearing heavy burdens in national security and expands the power and capabilities of the state at the expense of the citizens. National security concerns tend, over time, to enlarge the threat to America from their own state and various elements in their society. This emerges more sharply when the nation is at war because then domestic support for government intrusions into or impositions on the lives of the citizens grow markedly, as do impositions by certain private entities. This trend seems inherent in many of the capabilities that are being developed to maintain US dominanc...
Self-weighing in adolescents: helpful or harmful? Longitudinal associations with body weight changes and disordered eating.

Abstract Purpose This study addresses the question: Is frequent self-weighing related to changes in body weight and disordered eating behaviors over a 5-year period among adolescent females and males? Methods Project EAT is a 5-year population-based longitudinal study. Participants completed surveys exploring factors associated with eating and weight concerns. Participants included 2516 adolescents who were transitioning from early to middle adolescence (younger cohort) and from middle to late adolescence (older cohort). Results In the older cohort of females and in both cohorts of males, frequent self-weighing at Time 1 was not associated with weight changes at Time 2 (5 years later), after adjusting for Time 1 weight status and sociodemographic characteristics. In the younger cohort of females, Time 1 frequent self-weighing predicted weight increases at Time 2. In both cohorts of females, but not in males, Time 1 frequent self-weighing predicted higher prevalences of Time 2 disordered eating behaviors, including unhealthy weight control behaviors and binge eating, after adjusting for Time 1 behavioral outcomes, weight status, and sociodemographic characteristics. Conclusions Frequent self-weighing was not associated with weight change, with the exception of predicting weight increases in younger females. In females, but not males, self-weighing predicted a higher frequency of binge eating and unhealthy weight control behaviors. Although further research is needed to explore the potential merits and problems associated with regular self-weighing, the findings suggest that population-based obesity prevention strategies targeting adolescents should avoid messages likely to lead to frequent self-weighing.
Intraoperative electron radiation therapy as an important treatment modality in retroperitoneal sarcoma.

Background Local recurrence (LR) rates in patients with retroperitoneal sarcoma (RPS) are high, ranging from 40% to 80%, with no definitive studies describing the best way to administer radiation. Intraoperative electron beam radiation therapy (IOERT) provides a theoretical advantage for access to the tumor bed with reduced toxicity to surrounding structures. The goal of this study was to evaluate the role of IOERT in high-risk patients.
Differentiating Special Nuclear Materials through computationally generated gamma-ray spectra

This work focuses on providing a first step interpretation of fission product gamma-ray spectra from 0.1 h to 10 days after a fission event. The activity of fission products from mass chains 89 through 92 and 131 through 141 was evaluated using independent fission yields. An MCNP model was used to simulate the gamma-ray spectra from a single HPGe crystal for the radionuclides of interest for a sample of U-235 and Pu-239 assuming a fission neutron spectrum. The ratios of the activities were evaluated for differences in the spectrum. The analysis was optimized for radionuclides with prominent gamma-ray branches and a large difference in intensities between U-235 fission versus Pu-239 fission.
Evaporative Thin Metal Films As Polarizers

Thin metal films have been fabricated by vacuum evaporation, which polarize transmitted light at near-infrared and visible wavelengths. Polarization of normal-incidence light was observed for silver, gold and copper films made by this technique. The polarizing films were produced by directing a beam of metal atoms onto the smooth surface of an optically transparent substrate at a large angle of incidence. The film structure revealed by electron-microscope examination is a dense array of parallel metal whiskers aligned opposite the direction of the incident metal atom beam. Polarization is produced by the hertzian parallel-wire effect, which is also the polarization principle of the conventional wire-grid polarizer. The resulting polarizer material can be produced in sheet form or applied as a coating to optical elements.© (1982) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Importance of Three-Dimensional Geometric Analysis in the Assessment of the Athlete's Heart

How the left ventricle remodels in response to a high-volume stimulus is important in evaluating the endurance athlete's heart. Marathoners and patients with isolated, moderate chronic compensated mitral regurgitation (MR) represent physiologic and pathologic forms of eccentric left ventricular (LV) remodeling in response to intermittent and chronic volume overload, respectively. Thus, in this study, magnetic resonance imaging with tissue tagging and 3-dimensional data analysis at rest were performed in 19 marathoners (mean age 39 ± 10 years, 47% women), 17 patients with isolated MR without coronary artery disease or medical therapy (mean age 46 ± 5 years, 53% women), and 24 controls (mean age 45 ± 8 years, 50% women). Marathoners and patients with MR had approximately 35% greater LV end-diastolic volume indexes, approximately 50% greater end-systolic volume indexes, and approximately 34% greater LV stroke volume indexes (p
Operations with the FUSE observatory

The Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer satellite (FUSE) is a NASA Origins mission launched on 1999 June 24 and operated from the Johns Hopkins University Homewood campus in Baltimore, MD. FUSE consists of four aligned telescopes feeding twin far-ultraviolet spectrographs that achieve a spectral resolution of R=20,000 over the 905-1187 a spectral region. This makes FUSE complementary to the Hubble Space Telescope and of broad general interest to the astronomical community. FUSE is operated as a general-purpose observatory with proposals evaluated and selected by NASA. The FUSE mission concept evolved dramatically over time. The version of FUSE that was built and flown was born out of the "faster, better, cheaper" era, which drove not only the mission development but also plans for operations. Fixed price contracts, a commercial spacecraft, and operations in the University environment were all parts of the low cost strategy. The satellite performs most functions autonomously, with ground contacts limited typically to seven 12-minute contacts per day through a dedicated ground station. All support functions are managed by a staff of 40 scientists and engineers located at Johns Hopkins. In this configuration, we have been able to achieve close to 30% average on-target science efficiency. In short, FUSE is a successful example of the "faster, better, cheaper" philosophy.