cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Spatial agreement between Goldmann visual field defects and fundus autofluorescence in patients with birdshot chorioretinopathy

The purpose of this paper is to study the spatial agreement between visual field defects and ultra-wide field (UWF) fundus autofluorescence (FAF) in patients with birdshot chorioretinopathy (BSCR). The study is a retrospective, cross-sectional analysis of a university uveitis practice. Eight (8) eyes of five (5) patients with BSCR were included. Inclusion criteria were ability to fixate reliably. Goldmann visual fields (GVF) and UWF FAF were obtained, digitalized, and standardized. Analysis was performed by measuring areas of overlap of hypo-autofluorescent FAF lesions and GVF scotomas within the central 60°. Overlap was calculated as a percentage of the total area of FAF and GVF, respectively. Average areas were also calculated. The mean age of the subjects was 51 ± 12.28 years (range 38–69 years). 14 ± 23 % of the total lesion area identified as hypo-autofluorescent on FAF overlapped with scotoma. 28 ± 41 % of the GVF scotomas overlapped with hypo-autofluorescent FAF lesions. Average area of FAF hypo-autofluorescence was much larger (15.19 disc areas) than GVF (3.45 disc areas). There appear to be larger total areas of hypo-autofluorescence on FAF than scotoma evidenced by GVF and only a small amount of overlap. The finding suggests that GVF is relatively insensitive to anatomic loss, which can be detected using FAF. Further studies are required to assess whether this finding holds true for automated white-on-white perimetry. In addition, more selective psychophysical stimuli may have higher sensitivity in detecting early functional loss that accompanies anatomic damage.
A Psychometric Evaluation of the Revised Parental Emotion Regulation Inventory

Despite significant research on parental emotion, parents’ regulation of their own emotions during discipline encounters is an understudied topic. Progress in this area of inquiry would be enhanced by the development of valid measures of emotion regulation. The present article describes an evaluation of such a measure, the revised Parental Emotion Regulation Inventory (PERI2). Mothers of 2-year-old children (N = 232) completed the PERI2, additional questionnaire measures, and a parent-child observation during home visits. The present findings support the factorial and concurrent validity of the PERI2’s suppression (e.g., concealing negative emotion), capitulation (e.g., giving into aversive child behavior to reduce negative emotion) and escape (e.g., walking away mid discipline encounter to reduce negative emotion) factors. Suppression, capitulation, and escape were distinct but interrelated emotion regulatory behaviors that were associated with such factors as harsh parenting, lax discipline, parental maladjustment, and child physical aggression. In contrast, the psychometric adequacy of the reappraisal factor (e.g., thinking differently about the child’s behavior to reduce negative emotion) was not supported. The results support the future use of the PERI2, minus the reappraisal factor’s items.
Self-heating by large insect larvae?

Abstract Do insect larvae ever self-heat significantly from their own metabolic activity and, if so, under what sets of environmental temperatures and across what ranges of body size? We examine these questions using larvae of the Japanese rhinoceros beetle ( Trypoxylus dichotomus ), chosen for their large size (>20 g), simple body plan, and underground lifestyle. Using CO 2 respirometry, we measured larval metabolic rates then converted measured rates of gas exchange into rates of heat production and developed a mathematical model to predict how much steady state body temperatures of underground insects would increase above ambient depending on body size. Collectively, our results suggest that large, extant larvae (20–30 g body mass) can self-heat by at most 2 °C, and under many common conditions (shallow depths, moister soils) would self-heat by less than 1 °C. By extending the model to even larger (hypothetical) body sizes, we show that underground insects with masses >1 kg could heat, in warm, dry soils, by 1.5–6 °C or more. Additional experiments showed that larval critical thermal maxima (CT max ) were in excess of 43.5 °C and that larvae could behaviorally thermoregulate on a thermal gradient bar. Together, these results suggest that large larvae living underground likely regulate their temperatures primarily using behavior; self-heating by metabolism likely contributes little to their heat budgets, at least in most common soil conditions.
Dynamic safety analysis of a subcritical advanced burner reactor

A customized dynamic safety model is developed and used to analyze the safety characteristics of the Subcritical Advanced Burner Reactor (SABR), a fast transmutation reactor driven by a tokamak fus...
Characterization of 2C-phenethylamines using high-resolution mass spectrometry and Kendrick mass defect filters

Abstract The identification of synthetic designer drugs is challenging due to the high degree of structural similarity among compounds within a given class. In efforts to circumvent current legislation, new designer drug analogs that appear on the market have the same core structure as a regulated compound but differ only in the position or the identity of a single substituent. Reference standards of the new analogs are not immediately available for comparison, making identification using conventional gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) methods more challenging. In this work, the potential of mass defect to characterize compounds according to structural subclass was investigated. This initial work focused on synthetic phenethylamines, with the development of mass defect filters to characterize compounds as 2,5-dimethoxy-phenethylamines (2C-phenethylamines). Three sets of phenethylamines, including 2C-, aminopropylbenzofuran (APB-), and 2,5-dimethoxy-N-(2-methoxybenzyl) (NBOMe-) phenethylamines, were analyzed by GC-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC-TOFMS), using different instruments and under different conditions. The resulting accurate mass data were used to develop Kendrick mass defect filters based on the molecular ion and common neutral losses observed in a training set of 2C-phenethylamines. Successful characterization of test set compounds as 2C-phenethylamines with distinction from other structurally similar phenethylamines was demonstrated using the molecular ion and neutral loss mass defect filters.
Another way to not get eaten.

A previously unknown role is identified for a pathway that involves major histocompatibility complex class I and an inhibitory receptor, LILRB1, that regulates the phagocytosis of cancer cells by macrophages and contributes to resistance directed against the signal-regulatory protein CD47.
Transcriptomic analysis reveals inflammatory and metabolic pathways that are regulated by renal perfusion pressure in the outer medulla of Dahl-S rats

Studies exploring the development of hypertension have traditionally been unable to distinguish which of the observed changes are underlying causes from those that are a consequence of elevated blo...
Botulinum Toxin-A and Scar Reduction: A Review:

Pathologic scars remain a therapeutic enigma. Several therapeutic modalities have been described for the prevention and treatment of hypertrophic and keloid scars, but the optimal management approa...
Placebo effects and racial and ethnic health disparities: an unjust and underexplored connection

While a significant body of bioethical literature considers how the placebo effect might introduce a conflict between autonomy and beneficence, the link between justice and the placebo effect has been neglected. Here, we bring together disparate evidence from the field of placebo studies and research on health inequalities related to race and ethnicity, and argue that, collectively, this evidence may provide the basis for an unacknowledged route by which health disparities are exacerbated. This route is constituted by an uneven distribution of placebo effects, resulting from differences in expressions of physician warmth and empathy, as well as support and patient engagement, across racial and ethnic lines. In a discussion of the ethical implications of this connection, we argue that this contribution to health disparities is a source of injustice, consider ways in which these disparities might be ameliorated and suggest that this conclusion is likely to extend to other realms of inequality as well.
Impact of Electronic Point-of-Care Prompts on Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Uptake in Retail Clinics.

Introduction Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination rates nationally are low. This study determined if an electronic point-of-care prompt in the retail clinic setting increases HPV vaccination rates among an eligible population. Study design An interrupted time series assessed change in weekly HPV vaccination rates with the introduction of an electronic point-of-care prompt and rate change in post-intervention period. Setting/participants The study sites were two similar retail care clinics in Rochester, Minnesota. Participants were patients who presented to the retail clinics setting between the ages of 9 and 26 years from September 12, 2016, to September 30, 2017. Intervention HPV vaccine (nonavalent) was made available at both retail clinics. Staff completed a 2-hour lecture on HPV vaccine and one-on-one training for use of the prompt. Pre- and post-intervention rates of HPV vaccination after initiation of electronic point-of-care prompt were measured. A satisfaction survey was given to all patients or parents/guardians between the ages of 9 and 26 years regardless of HPV vaccine status. Main outcome measures HPV vaccination rates per week before and after the introduction of the electronic point-of-care prompt along with satisfaction with HPV vaccine availability and the point-of-care prompt in the retail clinic setting. Data analysis was completed January 2018. Results The point-of-care prompt increased the median weekly HPV vaccination rate by 8.6 per 100 patient visits (95% CI=5.8, 11.5, p Conclusions This study demonstrates a significant increase of HPV vaccine rates in the retail clinic setting with use of a point-of-care prompt.
Poncelet's Theorem, Paraorthogonal Polynomials and the Numerical Range of Compressed Multiplication Operators

There has been considerable recent literature connecting Poncelet's theorem to ellipses, Blaschke products and numerical ranges, summarized, for example, in the recent book [11]. We show how those results can be understood using ideas from the theory of orthogonal polynomials on the unit circle (OPUC) and, in turn, can provide new insights to the theory of OPUC.
Statistical Methods for Jointly Estimating the Decay Constant of 40K and the Age of a Dating Standard

To simultaneously evaluate the decay constant of 40K (λ) and the age of a standard (t std) using isotopic data from geologic materials, we applied a series of statistical methods. The problem of estimating the most probable intercept of many nonlinear curves in λ and t std space is formulated by an errors-in-variables nonlinear regression model. Then a maximum likelihood method is applied to the model for a point estimate, which is equivalent to the nonlinear least square method when measurement error distributions are Gaussian. Uncertainties and confidence regions of the estimates can be approximated using three methods: the asymptotic normal approximation, the parametric bootstrap method and Bonferroni confidence regions. Five pairs of published data for samples with ages from 2 ka to 4.5 Ga were used to estimate λ and the age of Fish Canyon sanidine (t FCs). The statistical procedure yields most probable estimates of λ (5.4755 ± 0.0170 × 10−10 (1σ)/year) and t FCs (28.269 ± 0.0661 (1σ) Ma) which are in between previously published values. These results indicate the power of our approach to provide improved constraints on these parameters, although the preliminary nature of some of the input data require further review before the values can be adopted.
Observational Study of the Thermodynamics and Morphological Characteristics of a Midlatitude Continental Cold Pool Event

AbstractConvectively generated cold pools are important to the Earth system as they exert strong controls on deep convective-storm initiation, intensity, and life cycle. Despite their importance, e...
Novel biomarkers of acute kidney injury in children: an update on recent findings.

Purpose of review The clinical diagnosis of acute kidney injury (AKI) relies largely on changes in serum creatinine; a delayed biomarker. Research in children has been focused on developing novel AKI biomarkers, which can improve the prediction, early detection and diagnosis of kidney injury, as well as our understanding of AKI pathophysiology. In this review, we describe recently published studies on urine or blood biomarkers of AKI. The mechanistic relevance of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), kidney injury molecule-1, interleukin (IL)-18, liver-type fatty acid binding protein, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-2/insulin-like growth factor-binding protein (IGFBP)-7, uromodulin, as well as other inflammatory biomarkers are discussed in the context of AKI pathophysiology, as well as their performance predicting or diagnosing AKI. Recent findings Biomarkers of tubular injury, cell cycle arrest and inflammation are presented in this review. NGAL continues to be the most frequently studied biomarker and continues to have good performance in a variety of clinical settings, most notably after cardiopulmonary bypass. We also found promising results with less studied biomarkers for the prediction of AKI in children, including TIMP2, IGFBP7, uromodulin, tumor necrosis factor-α and IL-8. Summary Identifying new AKI biomarkers is a priority in pediatric nephrology research because of the morbidity associated with AKI, as well as the lack of therapies for AKI. Recent research suggests that novel AKI biomarkers have the potential to predict the development of AKI and diagnose AKI earlier than changes in serum creatinine. The diverse causes of AKI, the different settings where patients develop AKI and the changing biomarker reference ranges throughout childhood remain challenges in biomarker development.
Unconventional Risk Management

This chapter begins with the story of Penelope who suffers a crisis unexpectedly – the loss of her husband in an accident. Nothing could have prepared her for that. And yet with sound money management and a smart relocation, Penelope finds a secure job. As a single mom, she goes on to successfully raise her son, send him to college, and become financially secure. There was no getting around it. Life can throw you curve balls including damage from natural disasters, job loss, divorce, and addiction. These risks can’t be eliminated and the purchase of insurance (Chap. 11) might not apply. How can you be ready for the unexpected? Here are some steps to consider. Most importantly, you need an emergency fund or rainy day fund. Place all important documents in one place. Have an updated will. Decide on advance directives regarding end-of-life matters. There are also strategies to help manage different types of risk including expense risks (explains debt-to-income ratio), credit and debt risks (including identify theft) and asset risk (also addressed in Chap. 7). With a solid financial plan, you are better prepared to handle what is thrown at you.
Understanding fundamental effects of Cu impurity in different forms for recovered LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 cathode materials

Abstract When identifying and developing lithium ion battery recycling technologies, understanding the role of impurities is always a concern as they may have an impact on electrochemical performance, material stability, or lifetime for recovered active materials. Here we show that Cu impurity in different forms could play very different roles on the recovered LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 (NCM622). Cu metal impurity could easily short the cell, while Cu ion impurity could play a positive role due to partially substitution of the Ni2+ sites to lower the cation mixing degree. In specific, NCM622 material with certain amount (0.34 at%) of Cu ion impurity delivers high initial specific charge/discharge capacity of 211.8 and 186.0 mAh g-1 at 0.05 C, which are 12.2 and 14.1 mAh g-1 higher than those of virgin NCM622 cathode. Moreover, a superior retention capacity of 171.3 mAh g-1 after 90 cycles at 0.33 C, and striking rate capability are achieved in this NCM622 cathode sample. These results clearly indicate that Cu metal impurity should be avoided and the ionic Cu impurity should be controlled with optimal concentration during recycling process for spent LIBs.
Thermally driven interfacial degradation between Li7La3Zr2O12 electrolyte and LiNi0.6Mn0.2Co0.2O2 cathode

Solid-state batteries offer higher energy density and enhanced safety compared to the present lithium-ion batteries using liquid electrolytes. A challenge to implement them is the high resistances, especially at the solid electrolyte interface with the cathode. Sintering at elevated temperature is needed in order to get good contact between the ceramic solid electrolyte and oxide cathodes and thus to reduce contact resistances. Many solid electrolyte and cathode materials react to form secondary phases. It is necessary to find out which phases arise as a result of interface sintering and evaluate their effect on electrochemical properties. In this work, we assessed the interfacial reactions between LiNi0.6Mn0.2Co0.2O2 (NMC622) and Li7La3Zr2O12 (LLZO) as a function of temperature in air. We prepared model systems by depositing thin-film NMC622 cathode layers on LLZO pellets. The thin-film cathode approach enabled us to use interface-sensitive techniques such as X-ray absorption spectroscopy in the near-edge as well as the extended regimes and identify the onset of detrimental reactions. We found that the Ni and Co chemical environments change already at moderate temperatures, on-setting from 500 °C and becoming especially prominent at 700 °C. By analyzing spectroscopy results along with X-ray diffraction, we identified Li2CO3, La2Zr2O7, and La(Ni,Co)O3 as the secondary phases that formed at 700 °C. The interfacial resistance for Li transfer, measured by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, increases significantly upon the onset and evolution of the detected interface chemistry. Our findings suggest that limiting the bonding temperature and avoiding CO2 in the sintering environment can help to remedy the interfacial degradation.
Resiliency and Women: The Journey to Academic STEM Leadership

In this study, four women who hold academic STEM leadership positions were interviewed, following a resiliency theory conceptual framework, to determine what factors were instrumental in their successful journeys toward prestigious academic standings and to examine the struggles they faced on those journeys. STEM refers to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics and STEM careers include chemistry, computer science, engineering, environmental science, geoscience, life science, mathematics, and physics/astronomy. For the purposes of this study, academic STEM leadership positions include department chairs, deans, provosts, chancellors, and presidents. Key factors of assets and resources for resiliency are identified.
Westernization and Women's Rights: Non-Western European Responses to Mill's 'Subjection of Women', 1869-1908

The publication in 1869 of Mill's Subjection of Women gave rise to philosophical and political responses beyond Western Europe on the relationship between Westernization and women's rights in developing, colonial, and post-colonial countries. Through the first comparative study of the Subjection of Women alongside the forewords to six of its earliest non-Western European editions, we explore how this book provoked local intellectuals in Russia, Chile, and India to engage its liberal utilitarian, imperial, Orientalist, and feminist ideas. By showing how Mill's Western European biases and instrumental reasoning establish problematic rhetorical models for women's rights arguments, we are able to explore the ethical dimensions of women's rights issues in the context of cultural and political imperialism. Most importantly, this reception history illustrates how cross-cultural and culturally sensitive dialogue on women’s rights can push us beyond Western bias and imperialism in advocating for the end of women's subjection around the globe.
T ⋆ -Lite: A Fast Time-Risk Optimal Motion Planning Algorithm for Multi-Speed Autonomous Vehicles

In this paper, we develop a new algorithm, called T⋆-Lite, that enables fast time-risk optimal motion planning for variable-speed autonomous vehicles. The T⋆-Lite algorithm is a significantly faster version of the previously developed T⋆ algorithm. T⋆-Lite uses the novel time-risk cost function of T⋆; however, instead of a grid-based approach, it uses an asymptotically optimal sampling-based motion planner. Furthermore, it utilizes the recently developed Generalized Multi-speed Dubins Motion-model (GMDM) for sample-to-sample kinodynamic motion planning. The sample-based approach and GMDM significantly reduce the computational burden of T⋆ while providing reasonable solution quality. The sample points are drawn from a four-dimensional configuration space consisting of two position coordinates plus vehicle heading and speed. Specifically, T⋆- Lite enables the motion planner to select the vehicle speed and direction based on its proximity to the obstacle to generate faster and safer paths. In this paper, T⋆-Lite is developed using the RRT* motion planner, but adaptation to other motion planners is straightforward and depends on the needs of the planner.
Prospective teachers’ appraisals of technology platforms: comparing perception and complexity

The use of technology affords opportunities for prospective teachers to engage in actions that are proximal to the work of teaching. The authors designed a task in which prospective teachers (n = 9...
Structure Aided Odometry (SAO) : A Novel Analytical Odometry Technique Based on Semi-Absolute Localization for Precision-Warehouse Robotic Assistance in Environments with Low Feature Variation

In this study, a novel semi-absolute method of localization and subsequent odometry: Structure Aided Odometry (SAO) for precision navigation in low-feature large scale environments, is proposed and validated. Storage racks and ceiling corrugation patterns are used to calculate orientation, cross-track, and along-track estimates for a warehouse robot to produce odometry with minimal drift. A comparison is made with existing laser odometry techniques in both simulated and real (albeit controlled) test environments. The results show a promise of low drift odometry for warehouse robots inside the aisles by offering a drift reduction > 75%. A hybrid odometry technique is also proposed which combines existing odometry with structural cues. It is further validated in simulated environments containing multiple aisles as well as a full warehouse. The results show that augmenting laser with structural features reduces the average root mean square error (RMSE) in both along-track and cross-track directions by at least 70%.
Endoscopic Ultrasound Procedures

This chapter reviews endoscopic ultrasound procedures and the diseases treated along with the goals of treatment. The equipment and supplies needed along with procedure setup are reviewed and laid out in step-by-step instructions. Pre-, intra- and post-procedure nursing considerations along with patient discharge instructions and follow-up are reviewed.
Physical Exercises in Cardiac and Metabolic Diseases

(1935). Physical Exercises in Cardiac and Metabolic Diseases. The Journal of Health and Physical Education: Vol. 6, No. 8, pp. 9-49.
Long-term monitoring data meet freshwater species distribution models: Lessons from an LTER-site

Abstract Long-term monitoring datasets provide a solid framework for ecological research. Such a dataset from the German long-term ecological research (LTER) site Rhine-Main-Observatory was used to set up a species distribution model (SDM) for the Kinzig catchment. The extensive knowledge on the monitoring data provided by the LTER-site framework allowed to calibrate a robust model for 175 taxa of stream macroinvertebrates and to project their distributions on the Kinzig River stream network using bioclimatic, topographical, hydrological, land use and geological predictors. On average, model performance was good, with a TSS of 0.83 (±0.09 SD) and a ROC of 0.95 (±0.03 SD). The model delivered valuable insights on three sources of bias that plague SDMs in general: (a) level of taxonomic identification of the modeled organisms, (b) the spatial arrangement of sampling sites, and (c) the sampling intensity at each sampling site. Taxonomic resolution did not affect SDM performance. The distribution of high predicted probabilities of occurrence in the stream network coincided with those segments in the stream network most densely and frequently sampled, indicating both a spatial and temporal sampling bias. Species richness curves confirmed the temporal sampling bias. Next to spatial bias, sampling frequency also plays an important role in data collection, affecting further analysis and modeling procedures. Results indicate an underrepresentation of low order streams, an important aspect that should be addressed by both monitoring schemes and modeling approaches.
Virtual water flows and trade liberalization.

The linkages between agricultural trade and water resources need to be identified and analyzed to better understand the potential impacts that a full liberalization, or lack thereof, will have on water resources. This paper examines trade of virtual water embodied in agricultural products for most countries of the world. The main purpose of the paper, however, is to examine the impact of trade liberalization on virtual-water trade in the future. Based on a simulation of global agricultural trade, a scenario of full liberalization of agriculture was used to assess the net effect of virtual water flows from the relocation of meat and cereals’ trade. The paper also identifies the main reasons behind the changes in the magnitude and direction of the net virtual water trade over time, and shows that virtual water trade flows are independent of water resource endowments, contrary to what the Heckscher-Ohlin Theorem states. Finally, based on a formal model, some input demand functions at the country level are estimated. The estimates of the income and agricultural support elasticities of demand for import of virtual water have the expected sign, and are statistically significant. Variables found to have some explanatory power of the variance of virtual water imports are average income; population; agriculture as value added; irrigated area, and exports of goods and services.
Directional brain functional interaction analysis in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Recent work has shown that a P300-based brain-computer interface (BCI) can provide effective long-term communication for individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). BCI users can experience significant variation in day-to-day BCI performance that can both frustrate and discourage users and caregivers alike. This study seeks to characterize this performance variation using measures of causality between electrode locations in scalp-EEG recorded from individuals with and without ALS during use of a P300-based BCI. Results show that there are statistically significant causal relationships between channels, particularly in the high beta frequency range, that are consistent across subject groups. Moreover, the connectivity patterns in the group with ALS appear to be more diffuse when compared to controls. These preliminary findings suggest that there may be differences in brain activity between individuals with and without ALS, as well as in the activity across successful and unsuccessful task sessions using a P300-based BCI. Ultimately, this information may lead more reliable BCI use for people with ALS.
Oxygen and Carbon Precipitation in Crystalline Sheet Silicon Depth Profiling by Infrared Spectroscopy, and Preferential Defect Etching

The depth variation of oxygen and carbon precipitation in multicrystalline sheet silicon has been examined by infrared microspectroscopy, electron-beam induced current (EBIC), and preferential defect etching. Experimental results on the depth profiles of interstitial oxygen (O i ), substitutional carbon (C s ), and oxygen precipitates, plus numerical analyses of vacancy-interstitial distribution indicate that oxygen precipitation is controlled by the initial O i concentration and quenched-in vacancies. In addition, it is found that the C s depth profile in the annealed samples mimics the O i profile. Examination of the precipitate density and the C s reduction rate allows us to show that formation of interstitial carbon by capturing self-interstitials generated during oxygen precipitation is a necessary step in explaining the fast C s reduction. From the fact that the carbon precipitation rate is controlled not only by the self-interstitial generation, but also by the precipitate density, it is suggested that the generated interstitial carbon impurities are most likely to coprecipitate at common sites with O i .
Cause-Consequence Analysis for NASA’s Space Transportation System (STS)-Solid Rocket Booster (SRB)

The Challenger Space Shuttle disaster was caused by a faulty O-Ring in the field joint of the solid rocket booster.This paper will explore the effectiveness a cause-consequence analysis would have had on the decisions relatedto the faulty O-rings. The ultimate decision to launch the shuttle in a temperature environment with increasedO-ring failure risk was a failure of decision makers to link increased probability of failure with potentialconsequences. This paper will outline how the use of a cause-consequence analysis would have given thedecision makers a better depiction of the information necessary for making a better decision. To expand on thecause-consequence analysis, a case is made for setting a specific probability of failure threshold for automaticlaunch cancelation that would have prevented the launch of the Challenger Space Shuttle at lower temperatures.
Applications of cellular fatty acid analysis.

More than ever, new technology is having an impact on the tools of clinical microbiologists. The analysis of cellular fatty acids by gas-liquid chromatography (GLC) has become markedly more practical with the advent of the fused-silica capillary column, computer-controlled chromatography and data analysis, simplified sample preparation, and a commercially available GLC system dedicated to microbiological applications. Experience with applications in diagnostic microbiology ranges from substantial success in work with mycobacteria, legionellae, and nonfermentative gram-negative bacilli to minimal involvement with fungi and other nonbacterial agents. GLC is a good alternative to other means for the identification of mycobacteria or legionellae because it is rapid, specific, and independent of other specialized testing, e.g., DNA hybridization. Nonfermenters show features in their cellular fatty acid content that are useful in identifying species and, in some cases, subspecies. Less frequently encountered nonfermenters, including those belonging to unclassified groups, can ideally be characterized by GLC. Information is just beginning to materialize on the usefulness of cellular fatty acids for the identification of gram-positive bacteria and anaerobes, despite the traditional role of GLC in detecting metabolic products as an aid to identification of anaerobes. When species identification of coagulase-negative staphylococci is called for, GLC may offer an alternative to biochemical testing. Methods for direct analysis of clinical material have been developed, but in practical and economic terms they are not yet ready for use in the clinical laboratory. Direct analysis holds promise for detecting markers of infection due to an uncultivable agent or in clinical specimens that presently require cultures and prolonged incubation to yield an etiologic agent.
An improved assay of inorganic phosphate in the presence of extralabile phosphate compounds: application to the ATPase assay in the presence of phosphocreatine.

Abstract Two methods of determining inorganic phosphate in the presence of labile phosphate compounds using the catalyst polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) are described. The first method provides a simple assay of ATPase activity at room temperature without deproteinization. The second method minimizes the decomposition of phosphocreatine during the assay to 1%. An application to the measurement of myofibrillar ATPase in the presence of phosphocreatine is given, as well as the advantages of the methods.
Implementing ecosystem management: using multiple boundaries for organizing information

Implementing ecosystem management requires learning to work with multiple factors, at multiple scales, using multiple boundaries and borders for organizing information. Traditional approaches often oversimplified information collection and analyses by relying on a limited set of classifications and information constructs. Experience has consistently shown that attempting to constrain analyses and assessments to one or a few organizing systems and related boundaries results in less than satisfactory information to support an ecological approach. Debates over which boundaries or borders are best and should therefore be the organizing device for ecosystem management are not useful or constructive. A more useful question is which set ecological approaches and their related boundaries provide the best information to address the resource issues at a particular time and place. Multiple boundaries, scales and factors increase the complexity of ecosystem management, but also represent an essential component for improved understanding of the sustainable management of lands and resources.
A quark search in ordinary matter using simultaneous measurement of mass and charge

A quark spectrometer was constructed which could measure both mass and charge simultaneously for individual particles. Exceptionally low counting backgrounds were obtained without sacrificing the ability to fully ionize the material being studied. The search was not restricted to fractionally charged particles but had reduced sensitivity for integer values of M/Q. The sensitivity was such as to allow definitive detection of one quark in 1013 to 1015 beam particles in the mass range from 13 proton mass up to 60 proton masses. No evidence was found in the samples investigated for particles other than recognized ions, molecules, or radicals.
Large wind-turbine projects in the United States wind energy program

The technological development of large, horizontal-axis wind turbines (100 kW-2500 kW) is surveyed with attention to prototype projects managed by NASA. Technical feasibility has been demonstrated in utility service for systems with a rated power of up to 200 kW and a rotor diameter of 125 ft (Mod-OA). Current designs of large wind turbines such as the 2500 kW Mod-2 are projected to be cost competitive for utility applications when produced in quantity, with capital costs of 600 to 700 dollars per kW (in 1977 dollars).
Review of "Cataloging of Audiovisual Materials and Other Special Materials: A Manual Based on AACR2 and MARC 21. Fifth Edition" by Nancy B. Olson

Nancy B. Olson with the assistance of Robert L. Bothmann and Jessica J. Stromberg. Westport, CT: Libraries Unlimited, 2008, 311 pp., $45.00, ISBN 978-1-59158-635-7. The fifth edition of Nancy B. Ol...
Risk of extreme events in the configuration of priority systems

Abstract This paper presents a reliability-based framework for the configuration of priority systems that control the risks of extreme transaction latencies. Modeling of priority systems can be computationally complex and lack robustness with respect to the feasible variations of such systems. The analyses tend to be ad hoc and overly particular to the application at hand. Furthermore, modeling of priority systems has focused on assessment of the average latencies, rather than on the potential for extremes of latency. The developed framework includes (i) a compact notation useful for modeling of priority systems, (ii) assessment of the risk of extreme latencies, and (iii) multiobjective analysis for the tuning of system parameters. An acceptable balance is sought among multiple risks of extreme transaction latencies. The framework is demonstrated in the configuration of an e-business server to minimize the lost transactions, e.g. ‘purchase’ requests for which a customer needs to wait longer than 8 s.
Total hydrocarbons, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and synthetic organic compounds in the Hard shell clam, Mercenaria mercenaria, purchased at commercial seafood stores

Abstract An analytical method for the determination of polycyclic aromatic h hydrocarbons (PAHs) and substituted benzotriazoles in clams was developed using a combination of silica gel and Sephadex chromatography to isolate these compounds from large concentrations of polyolefinic hydrocarbons. The concentrations of total hydrocarbons, PAHs and substituted benzotriazoles were measured in hard shell clams (Mercenaria mercenaria) purchased from Rhode Island seafood stores. The levels of total hydrocarbons, PAHs and substituted benzotriazoles in these clams were generally higher than the concentrations found in clams collected from a lower Narragansett Bay control location. The significance of these findings on the health of consumers is unknown at this time because human health standards or alert levels for these compounds in seafoods have not been established. However, this study illustrates that contaminants entering Narragansett Bay from a variety of sources may eventually make their way to commercial outlets.
Simple Robust Testing of Hypotheses in Nonlinear Models

We develop test statistics to test hypotheses in nonlinear weighted regression models with serial correlation or conditional heteroscedasticity of unknown form. The novel aspect is that these tests are simple and do not require the use of heteroscedasticity autocorrelationconsistent (HAC) covariance matrix estimators. This new class of tests uses stochastic transformations to eliminate nuisance parameters as a substitute for consistently estimating the nuisance parameters. We derive the limiting null distributions of these new tests in a general nonlinear setting, and show that although the tests have nonstandard distributions, the distributions depend only on the number of restrictions being tested. We perform some simulations on a simple model and apply the new method of testing to an empirical example and illustrate that the size of the new test is less distorted than tests using HAC covariance matrix estimators.
A counterexample to the extension of a product theorem in dimension theory to the noncompact case

Abstract We produce, for each n > 0, a subspace X n of R 2 n + 1 which does not embed in R 2 n and whose square has dimension n . This shows that a recent theorem about products of compact spaces cannot be extended to noncompact spaces.
Quantitative determination of perphenazine and its metabolites in plasma by high-performance liquid chromatography and coulometric detection

Abstract An accurate, reliable method has been developed for the therapeutic monitoring of perphenazine (PPZ) and its major metabolites in human plasma samples. Steady-state plasma levels of PPZ and its metabolites were quantitated for 30 elderly patients (mean age: 75) undergoing concurrent treatment with nortriptyline (NT) and PPZ, doses ranging from 4 to 32 mg/day for PPZ. The assay was suitable with patients on concurrent medications, and smaller patient plasma volumes (1 ml) were used indicating sufficient sensitivity and specificity. After plasma extraction and separation on a Nucleosil 5-μm C18 column, the recoveries (mean ±S.D.) of PPZ and its metabolites were determined; perphenazine 92±7.5%, deshydroxyethylperphenazine 81±7.2%, perphenazine sulfoxide 68±6.4%, and 7-hydroxyperphenazine 45±5.5%. The assay also had limits of quantitative detectability for PPZ and its metabolites as follows: perphenazine 0.5 ng/ml, deshydroxyethylperphenazine 1.0 ng/ml, perphenazine sulfoxide 0.5 ng/ml, and 7-hydroxyperphenazine 5 ng/ml. Inter-assay reproducibility (C.V.) for the quality controls and patient samples ranged from 18.8 to 2.4%. The sensitivity and reproducibility of this method should improve PPZ therapeutic drug monitoring and research on interactions in depressed geriatric patients.
Crystal structure, physical properties and Pt-195 NMR characterization of Pt(bipy)Br

The complex dibromobipyridylplatinum(II), Pt(bipy)Br2, crystallizes in the monoclinic space groupC2/c witha = 17.262(5) A,b = 9.388(2) A,c = 7.557(2) A, β = 113.47(2)∘, andZ = 4. The complex is isomorphous to the monomeric copper derivative, Cu(bipy)Br2. The195Pt NMR spectrum shows the typical line broadening effect caused by coordinated nitrogen-14. The complex resonates at −1897 ppm with a half-height peak width of 1300 Hz. The structure is compared with the analogous structures Pt(bipy)(X)2 (X = Cl and I) and Pd(bipy)Br2.
The prevalence of hemorrhoids.

The clinical records of 835 patients were reviewed. Five hundred ninety four had symptoms of hemorrhoids (symptomatic group) and 241 had no symptoms (asymptomatic group). Eighty-six per cent of the entire group had hemorrhoids, 88 per cent among the symptomatic group and 82 per cent among the asymptomatic group. It was felt that if the prevalence rate of hemorrhoids in the symptomatic and asymptomatic groups is similar or close to similar in every age, it is likely that a certain number of people will have hemorrhoids in every age group irrespective of the presence or absence of symptoms. If the prevalence rate is high, it would seem to support the theory that hemorrhoids are normal parts of the human body, not a disease but a sign of aging. Although the difference in the prevalence rate overall in the symptomatic and asymptomatic groups, 88 versus 82 per cent was mathematically significant, this was due to the large sample size and it was small enough to be without clinical importance. No significant differences in the prevalence rate between symptomatic and asymptomatic patients within age groups were found.
Compression in the presence of shared data

A method for compressing a target string of symbols includes identifying a set of reference strings stored by a computer, and matching a plurality of successive substrings in the target string to respective segments found in one or more of the reference strings. Respective segment specifiers are assigned to the substrings that identify the respective segments to which they are matched, and an ordered list of the specifiers is output.
Electron-positron annihilation and speculations on the renormalization group of strong interactions

Abstract Implications of recent measurements of the electron-positron annihilation cross section for other deep inelastic processes are discussed within the context of conventional field theory and conventional current algebra. Canonical scaling laws for deep inelastic electron and neutrino scattering are predicted to fail for Q 2 ⪆ 15–25 GeV 2 . Other easily measured consequences of a violation of scale invariance at short distances are discussed. Comments and speculations concerning the renormalization group of strong interactions are made.
Left mainstem bronchus intubation

We report a case of a 78-year-old woman, previously in good health, who was endotracheally intubated and brought to the emergency department following sudden cardiac arrest. Physical examination revealed absent breath sounds over the right hemithorax, and a portable chest radiograph demonstrated left mainstem bronchus intubation. Although right mainstem bronchus intubation is a common complication of endotracheal intubation, left mainstem bronchus intubation is rare.
The formation of sedimentary strata in an allochthonous shelf environment: The Washington continental shelf

Nittrouer, C.A. and Sternberg, R.W., 1981. The formation of sedimentary strata in an allochthonous shelf environment: the Washington continental shelf. Mar. Geol., 42: 201-232. Models of fine-scale ( 120 m) shelf regions. The inner shelf sand and mid-shelf sandy silt are the predominant accretionary deposits on the shelf. Important sedimento-logical observations obtained by boxcoring the upper 1/2 m of these deposits are: (a) progressive decrease in grain size with distance from the Columbia, (b) downward coarsening within the seabed, (c) loss of distinct sedimentary structure (homogenization of sediment) with distance from the Columbia. Non-dimensional parameters based on sediment transport and benthic biological studies can be used to relate rates of sediment mixing (re-working) to rates of accumulation. These parameters have the potential for quantitative prediction of strata formation, from measurements of active processes. Physical and biological mixing can be assumed to remain relatively constant in an alongshelf direction on the Washington shelf, and accumulation rate is known (from Pb-210 geochronology) to decrease away from the Columbia. Together these factors tend to increase the ratio of mixing to accumulation with distance from the Columbia, and predict the sedimentological observations listed above.
Examining the Down syndrome advantage: mothers and fathers of young children with disabilities.

Background Across studies and across outcomes, parents of children with Down syndrome have been found to experience greater well-being than parents of children with other intellectual disabilities (ID). This study examined the extent to which differences in family income and child temperamental difficulty can explain why parents of children with Down syndrome experience greater well-being. Method Fifty married couples who were parents of young children with ID completed a set of questionnaires measuring child temperament, parent satisfaction with social support, depression and parenting beliefs. Parents were observed interacting with their children. Results When groups were compared without consideration of demographic differences, the findings generally replicated the Down syndrome advantage found by other researchers. After variance attributable to income was removed, however, the Down syndrome advantage disappeared for all parenting and parent wellness measures. The effects of child temperament were confined to maternal and paternal depression. Conclusions Family income was more important than child etiology in predicting the parent measures used in the study.
AIDS Patients' Needs for Psychosocial Services and Their Use of Community Service Organizations

This article assesses the needs of AIDS patients for psychosocial services, the extent of their use of such services, and the level of their satisfaction with services received from community-based service organizations. Most subjects were male AlDS patients who were receiving services from one of two organizations in the Los Angeles area. Patients expressed the need for many kinds of services, including those that provide medical information, medical referrals, and practical help as well as support groups and individual therapy. Although most patients were satisfied with the services they had used, they were most satisfied with individual therapy and with services that provided transportation, food, and clothing. The results of this study made it clear that community organizations which serve AlDS patients should provide a wide range of psychosocial services.