cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Gaming personality and game dynamics in online discussion instructions

Gamification is the use of game mechanics to drive game-like engagements and actions. It applies game mechanics, dynamics and frameworks to promote desired learning behaviours. Positive and effective gamification could enhance learning and engage learners in more social and context-rich decision-making for problem-solving in learning tasks. Effective gamification design should understand the game personalities of learners, social engagement styles, and intrinsic- and extrinsic-motivated user styles initially and evaluate and select appropriate game mechanics, game dynamics, to create ideal gamification instructions. The research question this study investigated is: How will four types of gaming personalities (i.e. Explorer, Socialiser, Killer and Achiever) predict the level of game dynamics in online discussion environments? This study concluded that examining how gaming personalities relate to game dynamics in a gamified online discussion instruction is not sufficient to design effective gamification. It...
Small Business Use of Facebook for Marketing: The Case of a Family Owned Mediterranean Restaurant

Facebook pages are transforming how organizations and business market themselves and communicate with their audiences. Especially, small businesses are increasingly trying to adopt social media tools to market themselves and gain competitive advantage. The present case study introduces a social capital perspective on social media use for small businesses’ in reaching out to their customers. A social media platform such as Facebook can be a vital element of the overall marketing strategy and be especially valuable for building customer relationships. Potential avenues to build social capital in a small business setting are illustrated, using the case of a family-owned Mediterranean restaurant. Implications for small businesses and future research on this topic are discussed.
Association of dysversion of the optic disc with presumed amblyopia

Dysversion of the optic disc, sometimes referred to as “situs inversus,” is considered to be a congenital malformation of the optic disc wherein most commonly the blood vessels emerge “towards the temporal rather than towards the nasal side”1.
My first look at picat as a modeling language for constraint solving and planning

Picat is a new and interesting programming language, combing many different programming paradigms: logic programming, imperative programming, functional programming, constraint programming, and tabling. This paper is a personal discussion of some of Picat's features with several code examples.
Constraints to Successful Rehabilitation of Subtropical and Tropical Wetlands

Discussions of wetland rehabilitation in the subtropics and tropics, including those of the current volume, usually consider an individual wetland in its entirety without recognizing the influence of ecotones in successful rehabilitation. Additionally, only rarely do authors consider the option of multipurpose utilization of wetlands as essential components of rehabilitation schemes. Far too much emphasis is placed on wetland structure without considering viable, needed functional options that may lack “natural ”wetland structure. This article discusses these aspects within a context of evolving landscapes and expanding populations in the subtropics and tropics, while re-emphasizing the importance of community involvement seen in many of the chapters in this volume.
Scleromyxedema: long‐term follow‐up after high‐dose melphalan with autologous stem cell transplantation

Background Scleromyxedema is a cutaneous mucinosis that is often accompanied by severe systemic manifestations. New therapeutic options have been introduced for this condition, but data on the long-term efficacy of treatments are limited. Objectives This study was designed to evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of treatment with high-dose melphalan and autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (PBSCT). Methods In an original study published in 2006, seven patients with scleromyxedema were treated with high-dose melphalan and autologous PBSCT between April 2000 and November 2003. This follow-up retrospective study evaluated the long-term efficacy and safety of the treatment in five of the original seven patients. Results Responses were seen in all five patients. Three patients achieved complete responses, and one achieved a partial response. One patient achieved a complete response followed by a partial response after recurrence. Paraprotein levels were stable in two patients. In one patient, paraprotein level was undetectable 10 years following treatment, and in the other two patients, paraprotein levels decreased significantly following treatment. No long-term complications or adverse effects were noted in any of the patients. Conclusions High-dose melphalan with autologous stem cell transplantation appears to be a safe and effective long-term treatment in patients with scleromyxedema. However, further studies are required to investigate this in larger groups of patients.
Mechanical, thermal and electrical properties of cold sprayed coatings

Publisher Summary This chapter presents and addresses the results from a series of integrated property measurements on a range of Cold Spray [“CS”] metallic materials, in the as-deposited and heat-treated state. It discusses the results in the context of microstructural formation during high velocity impact of particles and the general characteristics of interparticle bonding. Sprayed materials require a multi-scale consideration, as they contain particles of tens of microns in diameter, micro- and nano-scale interfaces that may or might not be continuous. In addition, the highly directional nature of the process subsequently leads to highly anisotropic behavior in mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties. Consideration of as-sprayed and heat-treated behavior under all tests provides a powerful supplement to stand-alone microstructural characterization. The results for CS coatings were compared with those for HVOF and APS coatings, displaying some effect of thermal input on macroscopic behavior, particularly important for the higher-melting-point materials. All the data were contrasted with bulk material behavior. Further high resolution studies of CS interfaces, as well as in-situ macroscopic properties during heat treatment, provide a complete understanding.
Effect of fasting versus feeding on the rat small intestine. Morphological, biochemical, and functional differences.

The response of the rat small intestine to an overnight fast has been compared with feeding ad libitum with chow. Free access to water was allowed. No difference was noted between the groups of animals in body weight, small intestinal length, circumference, tissue thickness, water, or lipid content. However, the intestine of the fed rats was heavier and the deoxyribonucleic acid content greater than in the fasted group and these increases appeared to be due to the greater cell mass of the mucosal fraction. Other studies showed microsomal palmitoyl thiokinase specific activity and amino acid and hexose transport to be greater in the fed versus the fasted intestine. Using 3H-thymidine, the specific activity of intestinal and mucosal deoxyribonucleic acid was also significantly greater in the fed group. The difference in cell proliferative activity and cell content between the two groups is believed to be related to the stimulatory effect of food compared with the relative inhibitory effect of even a short period of starvation on cell proliferation in the epithelial crypts of the small intestine. These observations on the structure and function of the small intestine in the fasted and fed animals appear to be important considerations in studies of absorption.
Efficient power combiner for THz radiation

Most dangerous explosive materials, both toxic and radioactive, contain nitrogen salts with resonant absorption lines in the frequency range 0.3-10 THz. Therefore, there has been growing interest in remotely detecting such materials by observing the spectrum of reflected signals when the suspicious material is interrogated by THz radiation. Practical portable THz sources available today generate only 20–40 mW output power. This power level is too low to interrogate suspicious material from a safe distance, especially if the material is concealed. Hence, there is a need for sources that can provide greater power in the THz spectrum. Generating and extracting high output power from THz sources is complicated and inefficient. The efficiency of vacuum electronic microwave sources is very low when scaled to the THz range and THz sources based on scaling down semiconductor laser sources have low efficiency as well, resulting in the well known “THz gap.” The reason for such low efficiencies for both source types is material losses in the THz band. In this article an efficient power combiner is described that is based on scaling to higher frequencies a microwave combiner that increases the output power in the THz range of interest in simulation studies. The proposed power combiner not only combines the THz power output from several sources, but can also form a Gaussian wavebeam output. A minimum conversion efficiency of 89% with cophased inputs in a lossy copper power combiner and maximum efficiency of 100% in a Perfect Electric Conductor (PEC)-made power combiner were achieved in simulations. Also, it is shown that the TE01 output mode is a reasonable option for THz applications due to the fact that conductive loss decreases for this mode as frequency increases.
GUIDED ELASTIC WAVES IN FLUID-LOADED COMPOSITE LAMINATES

In this paper are reviewed the experiments and theoretical developments which led to a more complete understanding of the behavior of guided waves in composite laminates. Initial experimental results on uniaxial graphite-epoxy proved difficult to interpret in the framework of the conventional approach to Lamb wave measurements. A complete mechanical analysis of the problem, including a calculation of the reflection coefficient from an anisotropic plate immersed in a liquid provided immediate confirmation of the experimental results. Later examination of the properties of the reflection coefficient under variations in fluid loading lent further insight into the origins of the anomalous reflection behavior observed in composites. These developments are reviewed and suggests areas of further study.
Augustine's Use of the KK-Thesis in The City of God, Book 11

It seems odd that in such a densely theological text that Augustine would bring up something like the KK-thesis, which is so epistemological. Yet, as one progresses through the book it does begin to make sense. In this paper, I aim to try to come to some understanding of how and why Augustine uses something like the KK-thesis in Book 11 of The City of God. The paper will progress in the following way: First, I discuss Jaakko Hintikka’s work on the KK- thesis in order to have a clear idea of what the KK-thesis is, and some associated problems with it. Next, since Augustine most explicitly deals with the KK-thesis in De Trinitate, with the help of Gareth Matthews work, I discuss Augustine’s use of the KK-thesis there. Finally, I return to The City of God, in order come to an understanding of Augustine’s use of the KK-thesis there.
Setting up to fail: the case of Midwest MBA

A mantra of experienced project managers is â€œfailing to plan = planning to fail.â€ In the case of Midwest MBA, a user group is not satisfied with the progress made by the central computing staff on the development of a much-needed information system. In a well-intentioned effort to help the users, the IS staff of the end user area (who had been acting in a liaison role between the user area and central computing) decided to take on the completion of the system. However, the resources needed to absorb this additional project were never accurately estimated, obtained, or allocated. Moreover, tasks and target dates were never firmly established. Although the decision to take on the completion of the system was a noble one, the IS staff ended up providing a demonstration of the project manager mantra. Not only was the system not completed, but the IS staffâ€™s regular duties suffered as well. Animosity between the IS staff and users became rampant and both parties considered the system to be a failure. Put simply, the IS staff was not dealing in reality. And, as a result, they set themselves up to fail. This case is based on actual events in a real organization. We have, however, changed the identities of the parties involved and other key information to preserve anonymity.
Uncertain recovery of the North Atlantic right whale in a changing ocean

Human activities have placed populations of many endangered species at risk and mitigation efforts typically focus on reducing anthropogenic sources of mortality. However, failing to recognize the additional role of environmental factors in regulating birth and mortality rates can lead to erroneous demographic analyses and conclusions. The North Atlantic right whale population is currently the focus of conservation efforts aimed at reducing mortality rates associated with ship strikes and entanglement in fishing gear. Consistent monitoring of the population since 1980 has revealed evidence that climate-associated changes in prey availability have played an important role in the population's recovery. The considerable interdecadal differences observed in population growth coincide with remote Arctic and North Atlantic oceanographic processes that link to the Gulf of Maine ecosystem. Here, we build capture-recapture models to quantify the role of prey availability on right whale demographic transitional probabilities and use a corresponding demographic model to project population growth rates into the next century. Contrary to previous predictions, the right whale population is projected to recover in the future as long as prey availability and mortality rates remain within the ranges observed during 1980-2012. However, recent events indicate a northward range shift in right whale prey, potentially resulting in decreased prey availability and/or an expansion of right whale habitat into unprotected waters. An annual increase in the number of whale deaths comparable to that observed during the summer 2017 mass mortality event may cause a decline to extinction even under conditions of normal prey availability. This study highlights the importance of understanding the oceanographic context for observed population changes when evaluating the efficacy of conservation management plans for endangered marine species.
Sacrococcygeal teratoma: Atypical presentations in two neonates

Abstract The etiology of sacral masses in neonates is highly variable. The differential diagnosis includes sacrococcygeal teratoma (SCT), meningocele, myelomeningocele, rectal abscess, lymphangioma, hemangioma, lipoma, perineal cyst, bladder neck obstruction, imperforate anus, and rectal prolapse. Not only are there numerous pathologies in the differential diagnosis but also each entity can present in a classic or atypical manner. As the atypical presentations of these pathologies can create a confusing clinical picture, one must have a high index of suspicion and include the entire differential diagnosis when evaluating patients with perineal masses. A combination of history and physical examination, laboratory analysis, as well as pre- and postnatal imaging can help provide clarity about the patient's diagnosis. In this report, we present the work-up, diagnosis, and treatment of two neonates with perineal masses and atypical presentations of SCTs.
James Family Vastation

The exploration begins by considering anecdotes from James’ life, including his attempts to cope with heart disease, as well as his fascination with earthquakes. These, along with considerations of the writings of James’ father and brother, highlight James’ arguably dangerous fascination with the fringes of personality and psychosomatic disease. James’ arguments about the relationship between pathology and religious genius are presented to justify the study of demonology in spite of any real or perceived dangers. Demons are defined as a “relatively personified psychological and/or spiritual force that is to some extent alien to ordinary consciousness.”
Viral Regulation and Evasion of the Host Response

The type I interferons (IFN) are cytokines produced by mammalian cells in response to virus infection or other Stressors. IFNs exert antiviral function by binding to the IFNα/β receptors on the cell surface, with the major effect of triggering the JAK-STAT signaling cascade and inducing the expression of interferon-stimulated genes. The resulting innate antiviral response is a first line of immune defense against virus infection. Recent studies demonstrate that many viruses, including hepatitis C virus, direct processes to control the host response to infection. We provide a review of the virus/host processes involved in IFN signaling and regulation of innate immune defenses.
CONTRIBUTION TO A UNIFIED THEORY OF THE LEADER PROCESSES

ABSTRACT We have carried out a number of experimental, analytical and numerical studies on corona development and corona-arc transition as well as leader motion in both initial and “final jump” phase. A search of the relevant experimental literature suggests that nearly all the observations can be explained by either of two hydrodynamic models. These are the hypersonic detonation and hypersonic flame model. Good agreement with experimental evidence extends over a wide range of current and spacing distances (0.09 - 2000A and 0.01 - 1750 m respectively). A new simplified derivation for the hypersonic flame model is given. This derivation considers the self-similar properties for the minimum sparkover voltage in air of a rod-plane (0.1 - 30 m) gap in both polarities. It is hoped that this work will yield practical operating criteria of use to the electrical engineer in the field.
Adiposity, Insulin Resistance, and Bone Mass in Children and Adolescents.

Context Insulin resistance is an adverse health outcome that accompanies obesity. Fat mass is negatively associated with the bone mass after adjustment for confounders. Insulin resistance might be an intermediary in this relationship. Objective To determine whether insulin resistance is an intermediary in the relationship between adiposity and bone mass in adolescents. Design Cross-sectional secondary analysis of baseline data from a previous randomized trial. Setting University research facility. Participants A total of 240 adolescents (68% female), aged 7 to 15 years. Main Outcome Measures Using dual energy x-ray absorptiometry, bone mineral content (BMC), areal bone mineral density, lean mass, and fat mass were measured. Skeletal sites of interest included the total body and lumbar spine (LS). Waist circumference was measured using an anthropometric tape measure. Insulin and glucose were measured in fasting sera, and the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was calculated. Path analysis was performed to determine whether the relationship between adiposity and bone was mediated through insulin resistance. Results Fat mass (r = 0.467; P < 0.001) and waist circumference (r = 0.487; P < 0.001) correlated positively with HOMA-IR. Controlling for race, sex, maturation, lean mass, and height, fat mass, waist circumference, and HOMA-IR were negatively associated with LS BMC and total body areal bone mineral density (P < 0.05 for all). Additionally, path models for fat mass (95% CI, -5.893 to -0.956) and waist circumference (95% CI, -15.473 to -2.124) showed a negative relationship with LS BMC via HOMA-IR. Conclusions These results support an intermediary role of insulin resistance in the relationship between adiposity and LS bone mass.
Long-term oncological and functional outcomes support use of low-dose-rate brachytherapy with or without external beam radiation in young men (≤60 years) with localized prostate cancer.

Abstract PURPOSE To evaluate the oncological and functional outcomes of young men treated with low-dose-rate brachytherapy (BT) for prostate cancer (PCa). MATERIALS AND METHODS 423 men aged ≤60 years with clinically localized PCa were treated with BT ± external beam radiation. Biochemical failure was defined by Phoenix criteria. Freedom from biochemical failure (FFbF) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) at 10 and 15 years were estimated by the Kaplan–Meier method with the log-rank test to compare outcomes between National Comprehensive Cancer Network risk groups. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to determine significant predictors for FFbF and CSS. RESULTS Median followup was 9.9 years (range, 5.1–21.7). Median age was 57 years (range, 39–60), and median prostate-specific antigen was 6.1 ng/mL (range, 0.8–71). Overall, 10- and 15-year FFbF rates were 89% and 88%; 10- and 15-year CSS rates were 99% and 98%. Increasing disease risk was associated with lower FFbF and CSS (p CONCLUSIONS Younger men treated with BT experience excellent long-term PCa control with low rates of treatment-related toxicity.
Chapter II-4-B – Operation of Solar Cells in a Space Environment

Silicon solar cells have been an integral part of space programs since the 1950s becoming parts of every US mission into Earth orbit and beyond. The cells have had to survive and produce energy in hostile environments, undergoing exposures to radiation, solar flares, and temperature extremes.
Bipartisan Patent Reform and Competition Policy

The US patent system is a foundation of our nation's economy, encouraging innovation and growth. The exclusive right to use and license an invention provides numerous benefits to its inventor and to the broader economy. The patent system is not costless, however, and significant costs stem from the proliferation of low-qualify patents, including increased patent holdup and patent thickets. Industries relying on cumulative technology that computes and communicates are especially vulnerable to these problems. Bipartisan efforts to tackle the problems associated with the patent system have included reforms addressing the proliferation of dubious patents and an increased reliance on economic analysis. Significant progress has been made, first by the Federal Trade Commission and the National Academy of Sciences and later by the Supreme Court and the Congress, to improve the patent system, in part by recognizing that the patent system's costs and benefits differ by industry. Contemporaneously, private standard setting bodies have developed policies to avoid the problems associated with patent holdup. Moreover, the antitrust agencies under both the Bush and Obama administrations have scrutinized conduct involving patent holdup. This scrutiny should continue under the rigorous standards of traditional antitrust laws to continue the bipartisan focus on this important issue.
Structure-property relationship in high strength and lightweight AlSi10Mg microlattices fabricated by selective laser melting

Abstract Aluminum alloy microlattices have been increasingly used in automotive, aerospace, packaging, defense, machinery, and construction industries due to their superior physical and mechanical properties such as high specific strength and energy absorption capacity. However, design and fabrication of microlattice structures remains a challenge because the structure-property relationship in aluminum microlattices has not been established. To address this issue, AlSi10Mg microlattices with different unit cell structures, number of unit cells, and strut diameters were designed and then fabricated by selective laser melting (SLM). The specific energy, compressive strength, and failure modes of the AlSi10Mg microlattices were examined. Experimental results have shown that the AlSi10Mg microlattices fabricated by SLM exhibited a maximum specific compressive strength of 83.113 MPa·g−1 cm3, which is higher than most metallic and non-metallic microlattices reported in the literature. During compression tests, four different failure modes, including contact region crushing, consecutive diagonal cracks at 45° to the loading direction, elastic/plastic buckling and plastic deformation, and single diagonal crack at 45° to the loading direction, were observed. In addition, the microlattices with different unit cells exhibited different strength-density relationships due to these different failure modes.
Medical and end-of-life decision making in adolescents' pre-heart transplant: A descriptive pilot study.

Background:Adolescents and young adults undergoing heart transplantation experience risks of morbidity and mortality both pre- and post-transplant. To improve end-of-life care for this population, ...
Separating Feeder Demand Into Components Using Substation, Feeder, and Smart Meter Measurements

Real-time, feeder-level energy disaggregation seeks to separate the measured total demand of a distribution feeder into components (e.g., into the aggregate demand-responsive load and remaining demand on the feeder, or into the aggregate generation and demand on the feeder). It can benefit distribution system operators and demand response providers by providing real-time information about balancing reserve requirements or the aggregate demand-responsive load, among other applications. In this work, we develop a feeder-level energy disaggregation algorithm that uses measurements from multiple sources that are available on different timescales. The algorithm is based on online learning and uses sensor fusion to incorporate output equations associated with disparate active and reactive power flow measurements, complex bus voltage measurements, and residential smart meter measurements. The algorithm also uses distribution substation measurements. Case studies simulate a three-phase distribution feeder model with unbalanced loads, where the active and reactive demand of the loads are modeled as a function of voltage and temperature. These models are parameterized using real-world active power demand data at each time-step. Results indicate that disaggregating three demand components is possible using feeder head active power measurements, that including feeder head reactive power measurements improves disaggregation accuracy by 32% on average, and that including intermittent real-time smart meter measurements further improves disaggregation accuracy.
When time drags

The coronavirus pandemic is making life feel very slow, but observing timescales across the universe can bring us some comfort, writes Chanda Prescod-Weinstein
The impact of sex on motor vehicle crash injury outcomes

Female and male drivers have different size proportions and anthropometry. However, in the United States and throughout the world, male crash dummies are the norm in vehicle testing and female cras...
CT-436: Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cell Therapy (CAR-T) in Adults with B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (B-ALL): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T therapy has transformed the treatment paradigms for relapsed/refractory (r/r) B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in children and younger adults. Several groups have carried out early-phase trials of various CAR-T cell constructs in adults with r/r B-ALL. Recognizing that CAR-T outcomes in adult ALL are likely to differ from pediatric reports, we undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the efficacy and toxicity of CAR-T therapy in adults with r/r B-ALL. Methods We searched MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library for prospective, interventional studies of adults with B-ALL treated with CAR-T therapy. We included studies that enrolled ≥5 patients and excluded studies with a median age Results A total of 2566 records were assessed, and 15 studies involving 434 patients were included in the final analysis. All studies were single-arm, prospective clinical trials of patients with r/r B-ALL with 2–4 median prior lines of therapy. The majority of studies (11/15) included both pediatric and adult patients, but four of the studies enrolled only adults. The cumulative CR rate was 82.4% (95% CI:73.2–89.6%), and MRD-negative remission rate was 80.2% (95% CI: 69.4–88.5%) at 4 weeks post-CAR-T infusion. The cumulative 12-month PFS was 38.3% (95% CI: 27–49.5%), and OS was 56% (95% CI: 47–64); 42.9% patients relapsed at any time during follow-up, and antigen-positive relapse was three times more frequent than antigen-negative relapse. The cumulative incidence of any grade CRS was 81.7% (95% CI: 54.1-95–95%) and grade 3 or higher CRS was 27% (95% CI: 17.8–37.5%). The cumulative incidence of any grade neurotoxicity was 28% (95% CI: 13.3–49.1), and grade 3 or higher was 12.1% (95% CI: 0.7–26%). Conclusions CAR-T therapy achieves high early remission rates in adults with r/r B-ALL and represents a significant improvement over traditional salvage chemotherapy. However, relapses are common, and durable response remains a challenge. These results will aid clinicians caring for adults with r/r B-ALL and will serve as a benchmark for investigators studying CAR-T cell therapies in adult ALL.
Rapid Changes in the Provision of Rehabilitation Care in Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Settings During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Abstract Objectives Little is known about how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected rehabilitation care in post-acute and long-term care. As part of a process to assess research priorities, we surveyed professionals in these settings to assess the impact of the pandemic and related research needs. Design Qualitative analysis of open-ended survey results. Setting and Participants 30 clinical and administrative staff working in post-acute and long-term care. Methods From June 24 through July 10, 2020, we used professional connections to disseminate an electronic survey to a convenience sample of clinical and administrative staff. We conducted an inductive thematic analysis of the data. Results We identified 4 themes, related to (1) rapid changes in care delivery, (2) negative impact on patients’ motivation and physical function, (3) new access barriers and increased costs, and (4) uncertainty about sustaining changes in delivery and payment. Rapid changes: Respondents described how infection control policies and practices shifted rehabilitation from group sessions and communal gyms to the bedside and telehealth. Negative impact: Respondents felt that patients’ isolation, particularly in residential care settings, affected their motivation for rehabilitation and their physical function. Access and costs: Respondents expressed concerns about increased costs (eg, for personal protective equipment) and decreased patient volume, as well as access issues. Uncertainty: At the same time, respondents described how telehealth and Medicare waivers enabled new ways to connect with patients and wondered whether waivers would be extended after the public health emergency. Conclusions and Implications Survey results highlight rapid changes to rehabilitation in post-acute and long-term care during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Because staff vaccine coverage remains low and patients vulnerable in residential care settings, changes such as infection precautions are likely to persist. Future research should evaluate the impact on care, outcomes, and costs.
Slotting Allowances: A New Variable in the Distribution Channel

Channel power and control, once the domain of manufacturers within the food industry, is now widely held by channel intermediaries. This change in power has contributed to the use of slotting allowances. This paper examines the nature and origins of slotting fees, analyzes the behaviors of wholesalers and retailers employing slotting allowances, assesses the legal issues surrounding slotting allowances, and suggests research propositions to facilitate further research in this area.
New Kagome Metal Sc3Mn3Al7Si5 and Its Gallium‐Doped Analogues: Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Physical Properties.

Single crystals of the new title compound are prepared from a Sc/Mn/Al/Si mixture with a molar ratio of 3:3:30:5 using Al as a reactive flux (alumina crucible, 1100 °C, 8 h).
Novel configuration of laryngeal mask airway.

Objectives: Hospital airway emergency teams are often responsible for responding to codes, emergency intubations etc. The individual provider may have to respond quickly to widely separated areas of large medical centers on a momentâ€™s notice.Â Further, in addition to the urgency, the distance of different sites makes it important that the airway team not have to lug a large medical gear bag with airway supplies and emergency drugs. While the importance of the LMA in emergency airway management has been well established, it is sold as a fairly bulky device that requires a disproportionate space in an airway pack.Â We sought Â to examine whether modifying the LMA packaging might reduce the amount of space taken up by the need to carry three different sizes in an airway pack. Methods: A commonly used Laryngeal Mask Size Number 3 manufactured by Ambu Company was studied. The volume displacement of the package, and then just the LMA was measured using volumetric techniques. Results: Removing the large packaging yielded a much smaller footprint in cubic ml that was only 18% of the original packaging: 43 versus 240 cubic milliliters. Conclusions: This configuration of LMA transport allows for transporting more airway equipment in less space. These results have important implications for emergency airway response teams. Removing the original packaging and using this folded-over configuration allows to use 82% less volume in cubic milliliters per LMA in the airway pack.Â This allows emergency teams to carry more equipment in much less space.
Placental transfer of orotic acid, uridine, and UMP. I. Comparison of acid-soluble and acid-insoluble counts.

Abstract The transplacental passage and the incorporation into RNA of 14 C-labeled orotic acid, uridine, and 5′-UMP have been studied in pregnant rats from 14 through 19 days of gestation by analyzing acid-soluble and acid-insoluble material from the maternal liver, the placentas, and the fetuses. The rapid transfer of precursors is observed only after the seventeenth day of pregnancy. Further studies show the labeling of fetal, placental, and maternal liver RNA with 14 C-orotic acid; however, with 14 C-uridine as a precursor, labeling of only fetal and placental RNA is observed, with no significant labeling of the maternal liver RNA.
GIS and modeling prerequisites

In this paper structural elements are identified for the preparation of GIS-based data for use in econometric or statistical modeling. These elements include the need to know about the special characteristics of spatial data, such as map scale, spatial dependence, spatial variance heterogeneity and spatial trend heterogeneity, and the usual problems faced by modelers, such as nonspherical disturbances, stationarity of data, heteroscedasticity, and temporally and spatially autocorrelated disturbances. Detective work proceeds on the basis of the varying structures implied by the cross product statistic. These include measures of spatial differences, covariance, and interaction, and the exploratory data analysis functions included in the S-Plus statistical package.
Schema versioning and database conversion techniques for bi-temporal databases

Schema evolution and schema versioning are two techniques used for managing database evolution. Schema evolution keeps only the current version of a schema and database after applying schema changes. Schema versioning creates new schema versions and converts the corresponding data while preserving the old schema versions and data. To provide the most generality, bi-temporal databases can be used to realize schema versioning, since they allow both retroactive and proactive updates to the schema and database. In this paper we first study two proposed database conversion approaches for supporting schema evolution and schema versioning: single table version approach and multiple table version approach. We then propose the partial table version approach to solve the problems encountered in these approaches when applied to bi-temporal databases.
K -shell x-ray production in K 19 , Ti 22 , Mn 25 , and Br 35 by 20 – 80-MeV Cl 17 ions

Target K x-ray production cross sections have been determined for 20--80-MeV $_{17}\mathrm{Cl}^{\mathrm{q}+}$ (q=3--10) ions incident on vanishingly thin (\ensuremath{\sim}10 \ensuremath{\mu}g/${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$) targets of $_{19}\mathrm{K}$, $_{22}\mathrm{Ti}$, $_{25}\mathrm{Mn}$, and $_{35}\mathrm{Br}$. In addition, intensity ratios ${I}_{K\ensuremath{\beta}}$/${I}_{K\ensuremath{\alpha}}$ and K\ensuremath{\alpha},K\ensuremath{\beta} x-ray energy shifts were measured. Using Hartree-Fock-Slater calculations and statistical scaling methods for multiple ionization, the number of 2p and 3p vacancies at x-ray emission is deduced from the K\ensuremath{\alpha} energy shifts and ${I}_{K\ensuremath{\beta}}$/${I}_{K\ensuremath{\alpha}}$, respectively. From the number of 2p and 3p vacancies at x-ray emission the fluorescence yield ${\ensuremath{\omega}}_{K}$ in the presence of this multiple ionization is then determined. The modified values of ${\ensuremath{\omega}}_{K}$, which are as much as 40% larger than the single-vacancy fluorescence yields, were used to compare the measured x-ray cross sections with theoretical predictions of ionization from the perturbed-stationary-state (PSS) theory with energy loss (E), Coulomb deflection (C), and relativistic (R) corrections, i.e., the ECPSSR theory of Brandt and Lapicki. Reasonable agreement with theory is obtained for $_{17}\mathrm{Cl}$${+}_{35}$Br (${Z}_{1}$/${Z}_{2}$\ensuremath{\sim}1/2) with the agreement becoming progressively worse, as expected, for ${Z}_{1}$/${Z}_{2}$\ensuremath{\rightarrow}1. The results provide evidence for the validity of the ECPSSR theory for collision systems with ${Z}_{1}$/${Z}_{2}$\ensuremath{\simeq}1/2 even when ${v}_{1}$/${v}_{2K}$\ensuremath{\simeq}0.3.
Power generation at brownfields

With the introduction of restructuring in the electric power industry, the price and the availability of electricity have become primary issues for participating entities. This paper reviews the constructive translation of wastelands into a revenue producing energy sector. The paper further discusses energy generation alternatives that can be implemented in brownfields and the conversion from a brownfield into high efficiency power parks. The paper highlights two ongoing brownfiled projects and reviews their feasibility in restructured power systems.
On Pressure Gradients and Rapid Migration of Solids in a Nonuniform Solar Nebula

We study the motions of small solids, ranging from micron-sized dust grains to 100 m objects, in the vicinity of a local density enhancement of an isothermal gaseous solar nebula. Being interested in possible application of the results to the formation of planetesimals in the vicinity of clumps and spiral arms in a circumstellar disk, we numerically integrate the equations of motion of such solids and study their migrations for different values of their sizes and masses and also for different physical properties of the gas, such as its density and temperature. We show that, considering the drag force of the gas, it is possible for solids, within a certain range of size and mass, to migrate rapidly (i.e., within ~1000 yr) toward the location of a local maximum density, where collisions and coagulation may result in an accelerated rate of planetesimal formation.
Perfecting the picture: A guide is offered for handicapping the race for first place in flat-panel displays; none can yet match CRTs for price and performance

The three techniques being developed for flat-panel displays-liquid-crystal, plasma, and electroluminescent-are discussed. The underlying principles are reviewed, and the advantages and disadvantages of each approach are outlined. Special attention is given to the problem of addressing a single picture element, and the potential role of the active matrix in solving this problem in liquid-crystal displays is discussed. It is explained how in electroluminescent devices the addressing problem can be solved by operating the display in a region that will provide memory, or hysteresis, in the luminance-voltage curve.
Control system for the 2nd generation Berkeley AutoMounters (BAM2) at GM/CA CAT macromolecular crystallography beamlines.

Abstract GM/CA-CAT at Sector 23 of the Advanced Photon Source (APS) is an NIH funded facility for crystallographic structure determination of biological macromolecules by X-ray diffraction. A second-generation Berkeley automounter is being integrated into the beamline control system at the 23BM experimental station. This new device replaces the previous all-pneumatic gripper motions with a combination of pneumatics and XYZ motorized linear stages. The latter adds a higher degree of flexibility to the robot including auto-alignment capability, accommodation of a larger capacity sample Dewar of arbitrary shape, and support for advanced operations such as crystal washing, while preserving the overall simplicity and efficiency of the Berkeley automounter design.
Burn-induced immunosuppression: attenuated T cell signaling independent of IFN-γ- and nitric oxide-mediated pathways

Burn injury results in immunosuppression; previous work implicated a combination of altered T lymphocyte subpopulations and the elaboration of macrophage-derived mediators. However, the conclusions were based on T cell stimulations in the setting of high-dose polyclonal mitogenic stimuli and a single kinetic time-point. In this study, splenocytes from burned animals were used to examine lymphocyte responses over a multi-day time course following saturating and subsaturating anti-CD3, as well as mixed lymphocyte response (MLR) stimulation. Burn injury resulted in suppressed splenocyte-proliferative responses to high-dose anti-CD3 (2 microg/ml) at all culture time-points (Days 2-5); this inhibition was eliminated by removing macrophages from the splenocyte cultures, by blocking NO production, or by using splenocytes from burned animals congenitally deficient in IFN-gamma (IFN-gamma(-/-)). The results are consistent with immunosuppression attributable to burn-induced IFN-gamma production, which in turn, drives macrophage NO synthesis (NOS). In MLR cultures, lymphocyte proliferation and IFN-gamma production were depressed at later time-points (Days 3-5). APC from burned animals showed no defects as MLR stimulators; T cells from burned animals showed defective, proliferative responses, regardless of the stimulator population. Removing macrophages, adding a NOS inhibitor, or using IFN-gamma(-/-) splenocytes did not restore the MLR response of burned splenocytes. T cells from burned IFN-gamma(-/-) animals also showed depressed proliferation with subsaturating levels of anti-CD3 (0.1 microg/ml); anti-CD-28 augmented the proliferative response. We conclude that burn-induced immunosuppression to authentic antigenic stimulation is related at least in part to defective CD3 signaling pathways and not simply to increased IFN-gamma or NO production.
Reducing Ultraviolet Radiation Exposure in Children

Abstract Background.ProjectSUNWISEevaluated the effectiveness of a multicomponent intervention in reducing children's ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure. Methods.Across four YMCAs, 48 aquatics classes (N= 169 children, mean age = 7) were randomly assigned to either the intervention or the control condition. The 6-week intervention included a UVR reduction curriculum presented at poolside by aquatics instructors and home-based activities for children and their parents. Outcome measures were (a) tanness-associated skin color dimensions assessed with a colorimeter, (b) specific daily solar protection behaviors of children as reported by parents, and (c) general solar protection behaviors. Results.Controlling for intraclass clustering in all analyses, at posttest, no statistically significant between-group differences were found in tanness, daily solar protection scores, or general sunscreen use. The intervention group showed significantly greater general hat use relative to controls. Conclusions.The intervention failed to impact most of the outcome measures. Supplementing the behavior-focused intervention package with environmental supports may be warranted.
Environmental Aspects of Enhanced Oil Recovery

Abstract Oil displacement by injection of brines (the waterflood process) entails the surface processing of large quantities of saline waters, creating the potential for pollution of surface waters and shallow freshwater aquifers. Improved waterflooding techniques involve the introduction of surface active agents (detergents), caustics, and organic polymer compounds (particularly polyacrylamide), thus increasing the potential for pollution. It is increased further by the micellar-polymer process, since the micellar solution is a mixture of surfactant, oil, water, and a cosurfactant (usually an alcohol). Enhancement of oil production by thermal methods adds another dimension to the environmental hazards through air pollution from steam generators and the produced fluids. Other field operations, such as drilling and renovation of wells, create local environmental hazards, but these are becoming regional concerns as the search for new oil and the reactivation of old oil fields accelerates. This paper present...
High-performance liquid chromatographic assay for xanomeline, a specific M-1 agonist, and its metabolite in human plasma.

A reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic assay (HPLC) was utilized for monitoring xanomeline (LY246708/NNC 11-0232) and a metabolite, desmethylxanomeline, in human plasma. Xanomeline, desmethylxanomeline and internal standard were extracted from plasm with hexane at basic pH. The organic solvent extract was evaporated to dryness with nitrogen and the dried residue was reconstituted with 0.2 M HCl-methanol (50:50, v/v). A Zorbax CN 150 x 4.6 mm I.D., 5-microns column and mobile phase consisting of 0.5% (5 ml/l) triethylamine (TEA) adjusted to pH 3.0 with concentrated orthophosphoric acid-tetrahydrofuran (THF) (70:30, v/v) produced consistent resolution of analytes from endogenous co-extracted plasma components. Column effluent was monitored at 296 nm/0.008 a.u.f.s. and the assay limit of quantification was 1.5 ng/ml. A linear response of 1.5 to 20 ng/ml was sufficient to monitor plasma drug/metabolite concentrations during clinical trials. HPLC assay validation as well as routine assay quality control (QC) samples indicated assay precision/accuracy was better than +/- 15%.
Chemical etching of amphiboles and pyroxenes

Chemical etching of defect structures in pyroxenes and amphiboles has been investigated. Many features, such as very thin (∼1 micrometer) exsolution lamellae not observed by transmission optical microscopy of thin sections, have been observed in reflected light after chemical etching of cleaved or polished crystal surfaces. A new feature in the microstructure of pyroxenes, not previously reported in the literature, has been revealed by one of the etchants.