cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Bajo rendimiento escolar: una perspectiva desde el desarrollo del sistema nervioso

Resumen El bajo rendimiento escolar es un problema frecuente y tiene multiples causas; las alteraciones que lo caracterizan, se expresan fundamentalmente en las areas de funcionamiento cognitivo, academico y conductual. El bajo rendimiento escolar es una via final comun de diferentes trastornos, etiologias y mecanismos. Es habitual la presencia de multiples alteraciones, porque la disfuncion cerebral en la ninez generalmente afecta a muchas funciones. Consecuente con lo anterior, los programas de manejo deben ser individualizados, comprensivos e incorporar aspectos del nino en particular, la escuela y la familia. La planificacion del tratamiento incluye, educacion y entrenamiento de los padres, adecuaciones academicas, tecnicas para mantener la autoestima y un enfoque psicofarmacologico. Es necesario monitorear en forma continua los programas de manejo especialmente para detectar comorbilidades importantes que puedan emerger, para realizar modificaciones que se adecuen a los cambios en las demandas academicas y sociales a las diferentes edades del nino y para proveer de informacion actualizada. Las consecuencias que tenga el bajo rendimiento escolar para el nino dependeran en medida importante de las alteraciones subyacentes. El personal de salud tiene multiples roles en la prevencion, deteccion, diagnostico y manejo del nino con bajo rendimiento escolar.
Neutron brachytherapy is better than conventional radiotherapy in advanced cervical cancer.

Abstract Californium-252 ( 252 Cf), a fast-neutron emitting radioisotope, was used for neutron brachytherapy (NT) of 82 patients with advanced (stage III and IV) cervical cancer. The results were compared with caesium-137 brachytherapy; both isotopes were given in combination with high-dose fractionated pelvic radiotherapy. In patients with stage IIIB disease (ie, tumour to the pelvic side-wall), 252 Cfintracavitary therapy resulted in 54% 5-year survival compared with 12% in the caesium group. To be effective, Cf-NT must be given before external beam (photon) therapy.
Antibodies to the 70 kDa heat shock protein in midtrimester amniotic fluid and intraamniotic immunity.

Objective Antibodies to the 70 kDa heat shock protein (hsp70) immunoglobulin (Ig) G are markers for exposure to adverse or nonphysiological stimuli. In addition, these antibodies cross-link hsp-70 microbial antigen complexes and enhance development of antimicrobial immunity. The association between intraamniotic hsp70 IgG concentrations and intraamniotic immune responses were evaluated. Study Design Midtrimester amniotic fluids from 90 women undergoing an amniocentesis were tested for hsp70 IgG, hsp70 antigen, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI), and interferon (IFN)-α by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Clinical outcomes were obtained after completion of all testing. Associations were analyzed by nonparametric statistics. Results Intraamniotic hsp70 IgG concentrations, but not hsp70 antigen levels, were positively associated with levels of TNF-α ( P P = .0001), and SLPI ( P = .0038). There were no associations between hsp70 IgG and maternal age or parity, race/ethnicity or pregnancy outcome. Conclusion The hsp70 IgG levels correlate with intraamniotic concentrations of antimicrobial immune mediators. This antibody may potentiate antimicrobial immunity during fetal development.
Preclinical toxicology studies with acyclovir: ophthalmic and cutaneous tests

Topical formulations of acyclovir (ACV) were tested in animals to define potential for tissue irritation and systemic toxicity. Acyclovir ointments (5 and 10% concentrations in polyethylene glycol vehicle) produced no sign of dermal irritation or systemic toxicity when applied to shaved abraded and intact skin of guinea pigs for 24 consecutive days. Solutions (0.9% normal saline vehicle) of ACV did not sensitize guinea pigs when 10 sensitizing doses and a challenge dose were injected intradermally. Petrolatum base ophthalmic ointments containing 1 and 3% ACV did not produce significant ocular irritation when applied to the corneas of New Zealand White rabbits 5 times each day for 21 consecutive days. A 6% petrolatum base ointment produced mild conjunctival irritation but no sign of corneal or iridic toxicity. Mean concentrations of 2.53 microM ACV were found in aqueous humor 2 hours after a 1 cm ribbon (21 mg) of 3% ophthalmic ointment was placed in the eyes of rabbits. A single treatment with a topical ointment containing 5% ACV in polyethylene glycol vehicle produced minimal irritation when placed in the eyes of New Zealand White rabbits.
Factors associated with HIV testing among HIV-positive and HIV-negative high-risk adolescents: the REACH Study. Reaching for Excellence in Adolescent Care and Health.

Objective. To describe human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing patterns among high-risk, uninfected adolescents and HIV-infected adolescents, and factors associated with testing. Methods. HIV-infected adolescents (N = 246) and high-risk, uninfected adolescents (N = 141) at 15 sites nationwide were asked about the number of times they were tested for HIV, the type of agency at which testing occurred, and reasons for testing. Results. The majority of participants reported being influenced to obtain testing by health care providers (53.1% of the HIV-infected group and 66.1% of the HIV-uninfected group, respectively). Female participants were somewhat more likely to have used a confidential or anonymous site for the most recent test, compared with male participants (73.5% and 67.5%, respectively). Among the HIV-infected group, feeling sick was the only factor associated with number of tests. Among the HIV-uninfected group, having more male partners, marijuana use in the past 3 months, white race, and having had same-gender partners in their lifetime (males only) were associated with number of tests. Multivariate analyses identified 2 significant models. Modeling the probability of having been tested 3 or more times, black participants were less likely to be tested than white participants (odds ratio [OR] = 0.4), and participants who felt sick were more likely to be tested than those who did not (OR = 1.7). Modeling the probability that the last test would be positive, black participants were more likely than white participants to test positive (OR = 2.3); those who were tested because they thought they might have gotten HIV from sex (OR = 3.0) or they felt sick (OR = 3.9) were more likely to test positive; participants who were tested because a health care professional recommended it were actually less likely (OR = 0.5) to test positive. Conclusions. Overall, these findings highlight the importance of making HIV testing more routinely available to sexually active adolescents. More work needs to be done to normalize HIV testing among adolescents, and more innovative approaches need to be implemented on a wide scale.
Investigation of on-line coupling electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry with flow injection sorption preconcentration using a knotted reactor for totally automatic determination of lead in water samples

Abstract A flow injection on-line sorption preconcentration electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometric system for fully automatic determination of lead in water was investigated. The discrete non-flow-through nature of ETAAS, the limited capacity of the graphite tube and the relatively large volume of the knotted reactor (KR) are obstacles to overcome for the on-line coupling of the KR sorption preconcentration system with ETAAS. A new FI manifold has been developed with the aim of reducing the eluate volume and minimizing dispersion. The lead diethyldithiocarbamate complex was adsorbed on the inner walls of a knotted reactor made of PTFE tubing (100 cm long, 0.5 mm i.d.). After that, an air flow was introduced to remove the residual solution from the KR and the eluate delivery tube, then the adsorbed analyte chelate was quantitatively eluted into a delivery tube with 50 μl of ethanol. An air flow was used to propel the eluent from the eluent loop through the reactor and to introduce all the ethanolic eluate onto the platform of the transversely heated graphite tube atomizer, which was preheated to 80°C. With the use of the new FI manifold, the consumption of eluent was greatly reduced and dispersion was minimized. The adsorption efficiency was 58%, and the enhancement factor was 142 in the concentration range 0.01–0.05 μg l−1 Pb at a sample loading rate of 6.8 ml min−1 with 60 s preconcentration time. For the range 0.1–2.0 μg l−1 of Pb a loading rate of 3.0 ml min−1 and 30 s preconcentration time were chosen, resulting in an adsorption efficiency of 42% and an enhancement factor of 21, respectively. A detection limit (3σ) of 2.2 ng l−1 of lead was obtained using a sample loading rate of 6.8 ml min−1 and 60 s preconcentration. The relative standard deviation of the entire procedure was 4.9% at the 0.01 μg l−1 Pb level with a loading rate of 6.8 ml min−1 and 60 s preconcentration, and 2.9% at the 0.5 μg l−1 Pb level with a 3.0 ml min−1 loading rate and 30 s preconcentration. Efficient washing of the matrix from the reactor was critical, requiring the use of the standard addition method for seawater samples. The analytical results obtained for seawater and river water standard reference materials were in good agreement with the certified values.
Histidine 121 of staphylococcal nuclease. Correction of the H(δ2) 1H NMR assignment and reinterpretation of the role this residue plays in conformational heterogeneity of the protein

Heteronuclear two-dimensional NMR studies of wild-type staphylococcal nuclease containing histidine residues uniformly labeled with carbon-13 (26% isotope) have led to full analysis of the aromatic parts of the histidine {sup 1}H and {sup 13}C spin systems. The {sup 1}H{sup {delta}2} and {sup 13}C{sup {delta}2} resonances of His{sup 121} were found to be split as the result of the N{sub al} {r equilibrium} N{sub a2} conformational equilibrium described previously and attributed to cis-trans isomerism about the Lys{sup 116}-Pro{sup 117} peptide bond (N{sub al}, cis; N{sub a2}, trans). The relative intensities of the pair of {sup 1}H{sup {epsilon}1} peaks from the same residue. A soluble-mutant enzyme (nuclease G79S + H124L), which exhibited a drastically altered (N{sub a1}) to (N{sub a2}) ratio, provided additional evidence that the pair of {sup 1}H{sup {delta}2} peaks and the pair of {sup 1}H{sup {epsilon}1} peaks of His{sup 121} report on the same conformational equilibrium (N{sub a1} {r equilibrium} N{sub a2}). The unusual chemical shift of the {sup 1}H{sup {delta}2} of His{sup 121} is attributed to diamagnetic shielding by the aromatic ring of Tyr{sup 91} as verified by ring-current calculations based on two X-ray structures for wild-type staphylococcal nuclease.
SU‐FF‐I‐106: Volume Viewer: A Segmentation and Surface Reconstruction Toolset for Non‐Transverse Image Planes

Purpose: To develop novel segmentation software that allows users to segment regions of interest and reconstruct three‐dimensional surfaces using non‐transverse image planes. Method and Materials: To date the manual segmentation process in radiation oncology has been performed on consecutive transverse computed tomography(CT)image planes. This method of contouring provides little information about the ends of a structure and is poorly suited for structures whose longitudinal axis lies oblique to the transverse plane. Due to these limitations it has been illustrated that the segmentation of structures using only transverse planes is prone to error and time consuming in nature. We hypothesize that the intelligent selection and use of non‐transverse image planes will reduce observer error and the time burden of the segmentation process. At present few treatment planning systems offer segmentation in non‐transverse planes. The development of this software has four phases: 1) Navigation and segmentation toolsets. 2) Segmentation validation. 3) Curve and vertex processing. 4) Three‐dimensional surface reconstruction.Results: The first and fourth phases are complete. Phases two and three are currently underway with data from a user study illustrating process improvements to be addressed by our software. Our initial results are promising and indicate that it is possible to generate accurate surfaces with a significant reduction in the segmentation burden. Conclusions: The current method of manual structure segmentation is not ideal and represents a significant bottleneck in the treatment planning process. This software promises to improve the accuracy and efficiency of the segmentation process through the use of non‐transverse image planes. While this software was specifically developed to improve the segmentation process, we feel the use of non‐transverse image planes is directly applicable to segmentation and dose distribution review.
LACTATE(L) AND FRUCPOSE(F) ARE GLYCOGENIC PRECURSORS IN THE CHRONICALLY CATHEPERIZED BABOON FETUS

In order to assess the contribution of the direct [phosphorylation(P) of glucose] vs indirect [P of other precursors) pathway of glycogenesis in the fetus(fet), ten baboon fet of 140 d gestation were studied after placement of femoral artery (FA) and umbilical vein(UV) catheters. On day 4 post surgery, after a 24h fast, maternal(mat) baboons were sedated and mat plasma glucose(G) was raised to 68±3 mg/dl with 10%G to mat vein. A primed dose of 50 uc/h U-14C L and 2-3H G (n=5), or U-14C F and 3-3H G(n=5) was infused to steady state into the UV over 3h. Six FA samples were obtained 90-180 min, the fet was sacrificed under mat-fet general anesthesia, and kidney and liver removed for determination of glycogen (gly) and 14C, 3H gly enrichment. Fetal blood 14C G derived from L SA was 4.0±.5, 14C G from F SA was 11.0±1.5, 2-3H G SA was 42.0+2.5, and 3-3H G SA, was 35.0±5.(uc/mg(103). Organ gly SA was calculated as uc/mg(103): SA organ gly/SA G reflects the fraction of gly derived from label. 14C SA kidney gly/SA G was greater than 2-3H or 3-3H ratio for F and L fet(p<.004). 14C SA liver gly/SA G was greater for F vs 2-3H, 3-3H(p<.002, p<.05) and L vs 2-3H(p<.002), but similar for L fet vs 3-3H. This is more than can be explained by intraorgan futile cycling. The indirect pathway may be an important route of glycogenesis in gluconeogenic organs of the fetus.
The influence of basic ventilation strategies and anesthetic techniques on cerebral oxygenation in the beach chair position: study protocol

Background Beach chair positioning during general anesthesia is associated with a high incidence of cerebral desaturation; poor neurological outcome is a growing concern. There are no published data pertaining to changes in cerebral oxygenation seen with increases in the inspired oxygen fraction or end-tidal carbon dioxide in patients anesthetized in the beach chair position. Furthermore, the effect anesthetic agents have has not been thoroughly investigated in this context. We plan to test the hypothesis that changes in inspired oxygen fraction or end-tidal carbon dioxide correlate to a significant change in regional cerebral oxygenation in anesthetized patients in beach chair position. We will also compare the effects that inhaled and intravenous anesthetics have on this process.
A comparison of female postcopulatory behavior in Drosophila melanogaster and Drosophila biarmipes.

The postcopulatory behavior of Drosophila biarmipes and Drosophila melanogaster females was analyzed and compared. Females from both species were shown to undergo a series of behavioral changes following mating, including significant reductions in both sexual attractiveness and receptivity. However, while both attractiveness and receptivity returned to “virgin-like” levels within a few days in D. melanogaster, D. biarmipes females, which regained their sexual attractiveness within a few days, remained unreceptive to copulation for at least 2 weeks. With respect to fecundity, D. melanogaster females produced more offspring when given opportunities to remate, while D. biarmipes females did not benefit from remating opportunities. These observations suggest that D. biarmipes females may have the ability to store sperm and produce offspring from a single mating over longer periods of time than other drosophilids.
Molecular systematics of the order anaspidea based on mitochondrial DNA sequence (12S, 16S, and COI)

Fragments from three mitochondrial genes (12S, 16S, and COI) were sequenced to reconstruct a molecular phylogeny of the opisthobranch order Anaspidea. The molecular phylogeny supports the placement of the genus Akera, a taxon previously regarded by some authors as a cephalaspidean, within the Anaspidea. Incongruence between the molecular data and the classifications based on morphology suggests that some of the taxonomic characters (i.e., shell, parapodia fusion) traditionally used for the classification of sea hares must be reevaluated, since they may be homoplastic. The ancestral nature of Notarchus based on the molecular evidence suggests that homoplasy may be an explanation for the morphological resemblance of this species to the more derived sea hares with highly fused parapodia and concentrated nerve ganglia. Finally, examples are given of how comparative studies of the evolution of learning mechanisms in the anaspidean clade will benefit from the phylogenetic hypothesis presented in this paper.
A Dynamic Analysis of the Effect of Child Care Costs on the Work Decisions of Low-Income Mothers with Infants

Child care costs reduce the net benefit of working and consequently influence mothers’ decisions to work. They affect the employment of low-income mothers in particular because they represent a larger portion of these mothers’ earnings. I used a hazard framework to examine a mother’s decisions about work and hours of work after childbirth. I focused on low-income mothers with infants because they are the ones who may be most affected by child care costs. The results showed that child care costs are a barrier to work that is larger for low-income mothers than for non-low-income mothers. Further, child care costs have large negative effects on hours of work.
Chemical plume tracing experimental results with a REMUS AUV

Olfactory-based mechanisms have been hypothesized for biological behaviors including foraging, mate-seeking, homing, and host-seeking. Typically, olfactory-based mechanisms proposed for biological entities combine a large-scale orientation behavior based in part on olfaction with a multisensor local search in the vicinity of the source. Long-range olfactory based search is documented in moths at ranges of 100-1000 m and in Antarctic procellariiform sea-birds over thousands of kilometers. Autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) capable of such chemical plume tracing feats would have applicability in searching for environmentally interesting phenomena, unexploded ordinance, undersea wreckage, and sources of hazardous chemicals or pollutants. This article presents an approach and experimental results using a REMUS AUV to find a chemical plume, trace the chemical plume to its source, and maneuver to reliably declare the source location. The experiments were conducted in November 2002 at San Clemente Island, California using a plume of Rhodamine dye developed in a turbulent fluid flow (i.e., near shore ocean conditions).
Discussion of “Performance, growth and earnings management”

In an economy of firms with varying levels of performance, which firms are more likely to manage their earnings? The conference paper by Lee, Li, and Yue provides a promising approach to disentangle economic performance from earnings management in large-sample settings. The authors develop an analytical signaling model of earnings management in an economy and confront its equilibrium predictions with the data.
Defect/damage tolerance of pressurized fiber composite shells ☆

Defect/damage tolerance and fracture of pressurized graphite/epoxy thin composite shells are evaluated via computational simulation. An integrated computer code that scales up constituent micromechanics level material properties to the structure level and accounts for all possible failure modes is used for the simulation of composite degradation under loading. Damage initiation, growth, accumulation, and propagation to fracture are included in the simulation. Design implications with regard to defect and damage tolerance of thin-walled composite cylindrical shells are examined. A procedure is outlined regarding the use of this type of information for setting quality acceptance criteria, design allowables, damage tolerance, and retirement-for-cause criteria. Illustrative examples are presented for cylindrical and hemispherical shells. Results show that defects have a significant effect on the burst pressure.
Evaluation of an introductory course in chest radiology

Rationale and Objectives. The author developed and evaluated the effectiveness of an educational program for teaching the fundamentals of chest radiology to radiology residents. Methods. Nineteen radiology residents completed a course that consisted of 17 1-hour chest radiology conferences. All seven 1st-year radiology residents were required to attend every conference; more senior-level residents were encouraged to attend, but their attendance was not mandatory. All conferences were given by the same instructor with the use of a didactic slide and radiograph presentation, videotape, heart-lung model, and a 120-page syllabus. Residents were encouraged to participate in a daily quiz. Resident learning was measured by means of a pre- and postcourse examination. Results. Conference attendance rate was 93% for 1st-year residents and 75% for more senior residents. Nineteen residents took both the pre- and postcourse examination; mean scores increased from 65.6% to 86.2% ( P Conclusion. An educational program in chest radiology was developed for residents. Both objective and subjective evaluations indicated that resident participation in the introductory chest course was an effective means of learning the basics of chest radiology. The residents were in support of making this course a required part of the residency curriculum.
Assessing the Costs of Adequacy in California Public Schools: A Cost Function Approach

Abstract In this study, a cost function is used to estimate the costs for California districts to meet the achievement goals set out for them by the state. I calculate estimates of base costs (i.e....
Treatment of lupus nephritis: A meta-analysis of clinical trials

The best therapeutic choice in lupus nephritis remains shrouded in a body of controversial literature. The purpose of this review was to assess and compare by meta-analysis the efficacy of therapeutic agents used in the treatment of lupus nephritis using outcomes of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and total mortality. An exhaustive search was performed using MEDLINE (1970 to 1995) and manual search of bibliographic notations and nonindexed sources. Twenty prospective controlled trials with treatment allocation by random assignment or consecutive enrollment were identified using diagnostic evidence of systemic lupus erythematosus based on American Rheumatism Association (ARA) criteria and clinical/biopsy evidence of lupus nephritis. One trial was excluded, resulting in 19 trials (n = 440) using treatment groups of oral prednisone alone, azathioprine with and without concomitant prednisone, oral cyclophosphamide with prednisone, azathioprine and oral cyclophosphamide with prednisone, and intravenous cyclophosphamide with prednisone. Crude risk data was pooled. An adjusted pooled risk was calculated using the random effects model of DerSimonian and Laird. Two measures of clinical effectiveness were used to compare treatments: absolute risk differences and number needed to treat. Analysis was completed between treatment groups as follows: oral prednisone compared with all immunosuppressive agents with prednisone and all treatment groups compared with one another. When compared with oral prednisone alone, immunosuppressive agents used in conjunction with oral prednisone were found to be statistically more effective for both total mortality and ESRD (absolute risk differences, 13.2% and 12.9%, respectively). When treatment groups were compared, intravenous cyclophosphamide in conjunction with oral prednisone was found to be statistically more effective than oral prednisone alone for both total mortality and ESRD (absolute risk differences, 19.9% and 16.2%, respectively). The simultaneous use of azathioprine and oral cyclophosphamide concomitant with oral prednisone was found to be 16.9% more effective than oral prednisone alone in reducing incidence of ESRD. No difference was seen in total mortality and data represented only two studies (n = 30). No immunosuppressive agent was found to be statistically more effective than another for either total mortality or ESRD. Future prospective studies are needed to control for numerous variables and renal function changes to provide more definitive answers.
Spin-charge separation in an extended Hubbard model : a large D study

Abstract The two-band extended Hubbard model is studied using the dynamical mean field theory. In the strict D = ∞ limit, this model has spin-charge separation in the mixed-valence regime over a finite-range of interactions. The non-Fermi liquid state is found to survive the inite- D effects systematically incorporated in an extended dynamical mean field formulation.
A phytochemical investigation of the kelps Cymathaere triplicata, Hedophyllum sessile, and Egregia Menziesii.

The phytochemical investigation of three northwest marine algae is presented including a survey of the plants for their vitamin content and antibiotic properties. The results obtained are presented with a summary indicating possible usefulness of the plants.
Sex Differences in Epigenetic Regulation of the Estrogen Receptor-α Promoter within the Developing Preoptic Area

Sex differences in the brain are largely organized by a testicular hormone surge that occurs in males shortly after birth. Although this hormone surge is transient, sex differences in brain and behavior are lasting. Here we describe a sex difference in DNA methylation of the estrogen receptor-α (ERα) promoter region within the developing rat preoptic area, with males exhibiting more DNA methylation within the ERα promoter than females. More importantly, we report that simulating maternal grooming, a form of maternal interaction that is sexually dimorphic with males experiencing more than females during the neonatal period, effectively masculinizes female ERα promoter methylation and gene expression. This suggests natural variations in maternal care that are directed differentially at males vs. females can influence sex differences in the brain by creating sexually dimorphic DNA methylation patterns. We also find that the early estradiol exposure may contribute to sex differences in DNA methylation patterns. This suggests that early social interaction and estradiol exposure may converge at the genome to organize lasting sex differences in the brain via epigenetic differentiation.
Shock wave generation in water for biological studies

We have used a pulsed power generator based on stacking MOSFET switches to create breakdown in water and generate shock waves. The pulses with an exponential decay have a maximum voltage of 4 kV. With the pulse application of approximately 50 μs, the breakdown voltage is approximately 3 kV. Post-breakdown events, such as shock wave emission and bubble expansion and collapse were recorded by a fast camera. The shock speed was recorded as 1.5 km/s and the maximum bubble diameter is 2.3 mm. This shock wave generator can be used on the microscope and provides a means of studying the shock impact on biological cells.
Separation and identification of benzothiadiazines in commercial formulations by thin-layer chromatography and infrared spectroscopy

Abstract A simple method for the separation and identification of benzothiadiazines from commerically available pharmaceutical formulations has been developed. After preliminary solvent extraction the compounds are separated by thin-layer chromatography and are extracted from the adsorbent with ethyl alcohol. An infrared spectrum of the eluted material is then obtained. The Rf values of the benzothiadiazines on the chromatoplates in two or more solvents and on two absorbents can also be used for the identification of these compounds when known compounds are available.
Commissioning of Hubble Space Telescope: the strategy for recovery

When the space shuttle Endeavor rockets into orbit on December 2, 1993, NASA will begin the last phase of a three part program to recover from the disappointing beginnings of Hubble Space Telescope operations. The problem with the telescope was detected shortly after launch in April of 1990 and in June of that year NASA concluded that the primary mirror of the telescope had been manufactured with the wrong figure. NASA immediately began a detailed investigation to determine exactly what went wrong. Next, NASA and the HST community began a multi-effort program to maximize and improve the science produced by the telescope in its aberrated condition. Finally, plans were developed to repair the telescope's problems in orbit and to restore the observatory's full scientific potential. Much has been written about the failure to detect this flaw before launch. The impression of many outside the program is that Hubble is a complete failure. Far less has been written of the impressive efforts and successes as the recovery from this disappointing start evolved.
Flexible all-carbon photovoltaics with improved thermal stability

The structurally robust nature of nanocarbon allotropes, e.g., semiconducting single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and C{sub 60}s, makes them tantalizing candidates for thermally stable and mechanically flexible photovoltaic applications. However, C{sub 60}s rapidly dissociate away from the basal of SWCNTs under thermal stimuli as a result of weak intermolecular forces that “lock up” the binary assemblies. Here, we explore use of graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) as geometrically tailored protecting layers to suppress the unwanted dissociation of C{sub 60}s. The underlying mechanisms are explained using a combination of molecular dynamics simulations and transition state theory, revealing the temperature dependent disassociation of C{sub 60}s from the SWCNT basal plane. Our strategy provides fundamental guidelines for integrating all-carbon based nano-p/n junctions with optimized structural and thermal stability. External quantum efficiency and output current–voltage characteristics are used to experimentally quantify the effectiveness of GNR membranes under high temperature annealing. Further, the resulting C{sub 60}:SWCNT:GNR ternary composites display excellent mechanical stability, even after iterative bending tests. - Graphical abstract: The incorporation of solvent resistant, mechanically flexible and electrically addressable 2-D soft graphene nanoribbons facilitates the assembly of photoconductive carbon nano-p/n junctions for thermally stable and flexible photovoltaic cells.
Economic Politics: The Costs of Democracy

This book raises and addresses questions about the consequences of democratic institutions for economic performance. Do institutions of accountability inside and outside government through periodic elections produce efficient results, or do they lead to the kind of accumulation of special privileges and protections from market competition that reduces efficiency and growth? Professor Keech suggests that there are modest and bearable costs of democratic procedures, comparable to the agency costs incurred whenever a principal delegates authority to an agent. Democracy, however, does not systematically cause inferior macroeconomic policy detrimental to a population's long-term welfare. Rather, there is a logical circularity among voter preferences, institutions, and economic and political outcomes. This accessible synthesis and sharp perspective will be highly useful for professionals, graduate students, and upper-level undergraduates aiming to understand the relationship between politics and economics.
Localization of [3H]-2-deoxy glucose in single molluscan neurones

The glucose analogue 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG) can be used quantitatively to measure metabolic activity1 and is widely used qualitatively for mapping functional activity in the brain2–4. The resolution (meaning the full width at half maximum of the grain density distribution around a line source) of the technique using [14C]-2-DG and X-ray film is limited to about 100 µm5. Attempts have been made to improve the resolution using [3H]-2-DG (ref. 6) and cellular resolution has been achieved in the goldfish retina7 and with cultured mouse neurones8. An anatomical technique for mapping the metabolic activity of individual neurones would be useful for studying invertebrate central nervous systems, which are relatively simple and stereotyped compared to vertebrate brains. The [3H]-2-DG technique was applied to an invertebrate in a study of the Drosophila visual system9, though without cellular resolution. We present here modifications of the [3H]-2-DG technique to demonstrate localization of 2-DG in single neurones of Limax maximus, a gastropod mollusc, with a resolution of less than 1 µm.
Improving the appropriateness of vancomycin use by sequential interventions

Abstract Background: Vancomycin usage is directly associated with the incidence of vancomycin-resistant enterococci. Optimal methods to reduce inappropriate use have not been delineated. We determined the appropriateness of vancomycin prescribing at our hospital on the basis of national guidelines and assessed the effect of sequential administrative and educational interventions. Methods: In this prospective 3-phase study conducted in a Veterans Affairs Medical Center, we monitored vancomycin prescribing at baseline and in 2 follow-up periods. Administrative interventions included discussions with service chiefs and revising routine perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis orders. Educational interventions included in-services about vancomycin-resistant enterococci and appropriate vancomycin prescribing. In each monitoring period, 50 consecutive new vancomycin orders that could be evaluated were classified for appropriateness and categorized by indication. Results: At baseline, 70% of vancomycin use was inappropriate. Surgical services accounted for 84% of orders. Interventions targeted services with high or frequently inappropriate vancomycin use. After administrative interventions, inappropriate vancomycin use dropped to 40% of orders ( P = .003). Improvements were noted in targeted services. Educational interventions further decreased inappropriate vancomycin use, but the effect appeared transient. Conclusions: The simple, nonrestrictive administrative interventions used resulted in a statistically significant (30%) reduction in inappropriate vancomycin prescribing. However, educational interventions provided only transient benefit on institutional prescribing patterns. (AJIC Am J Infect Control 1999;27:84-90)
Impact of nutritional knowledge within an expanded rational expectations model of beef consumption

Abstract The relative impact of nutritional knowledge on beef-eating intentions and behavior is examined with respect to attitudinal and social support constructs. Additionally, models for males and females are contrasted to determine whether or not the structure of cognitive relationships differs by gender. A convenience sample of 141 adult households completed a self-administered questionnaire containing items measuring nutritional knowledge, beliefs, attitudes, influences of significant others, subjective norms, social acceptability, and intentions and frequency of beef consumption. These constructs are used to examine structural relationships within an expanded version of the Fishbein-Ajzen rational expectations model. The expanded model is evaluated by using LISREL procedures that allow for simultaneous estimation of measurement and structural relationships when using latent variables. The results show that although nutritional knowledge is not directly related to intentions, behavior, or attitudes, it is significantly correlated with social support constructs that do influence intentions and behavior. These findings suggest that nutrition education programs should seek to link knowledge attainment and application with socially desirable consequences as well as with beliefs and attitudes. Cognitive structures for males and females are similar, which implies that any particular nutrition education program should be equally effective for both groups.
Durability of PSS-supported Pd-membranes under mixed gas and water–gas shift conditions

Abstract The palladium-based catalytic membrane reactor (Pd-CMR) as well as the palladium-based membrane separator have demonstrated a wide ranging applicability to the fields of H 2 production and clean power generation. One of the key requirements in these two application fields remains the synthesis of robust, composite, dense metal membranes which exhibit high H 2 permeance as well as long-term selectivity stability. Within such a context, a porous stainless steel supported thin Pd-membrane with an H 2 permeance of 34 m 3 /m 2 -h-bar 0.5 (400 °C) has been prepared and tested under H 2 /H 2 O(10−37%) mixed gas conditions, 2.6−6.1 bar and 400−450 °C for up to 190 h. Two similar membranes with H 2 permeance of 23 and 28 m 3 /m 2 -h-bar 0.5 , were also tested under water–gas-shift (WGS) reaction conditions (42% CO, 40% H 2 , 18% CO 2 ), H 2 O/CO ratio of 2–3, 7.9–14.7 bar, 400 °C and 2700 h −1 for up to 1000 h. At the highest pressure level a stable CO conversion and H 2 recovery of 97 and 88% respectively were achieved for 900 h which is indicative of the overall system stability. All the membranes exhibited leak growth under mixed and WGS conditions at similar rates (3.1×10 −7 –2.2×10 −5 m 3 /m 2 -h-bar) as those measured during pure H 2 testing, suggesting that the reactive atmosphere did not permanently harm the dense Pd-layer. Additionally, a significant part of the leak growth that was experimentally observed during the 1000 hour WGS test can be reasonably attributed to defects inherent to the welded regions of the PSS 316L supports utilized in the present research study.
The role of organizational justice in organizational citizenship behavior

This special issue highlights the relationships between the concepts of organizational justice and organizational citizenship behavior. The articles advance our understanding of these concepts and their relevance to organizational behavior by describing the theoretical and empirical relationship between them. The present article sets the stage for the papers that follow by providing background on the concepts of organizational justice and organizational citizenship behavior and explaining various connections between them.
Pseudo field modulation in EPR spectroscopy

This paper develops methodology for computer simulation of the effect on an experimental EPR spectrum that would occur if an additional field modulation were applied followed by eventual phase sensitive detection at the modulation frequency or at one its harmonics. The algorithm, which is called pseudomodulation, transforms the digitized spectrum and also filters the noise. If a second harmonic spectrum is desired in order to make subtle changes in curvature more apparent, it is shown that it is always preferable to obtain an experimental second harmonic spectrum. The signals are identical, but because of the filtering properties of the pseudomodulation algorithm, the noise is lower. Pseudomodulation should be applied to simulated spectra prior to fitting a model to data in order more precisely to simulate the experimental signal. It is argued that such fits ought to involve not only first harmonics but also higher harmonics, since the various harmonics are sensitive in different ways to input parameters in the spin Hamiltonian. Application of pseudomodulation to the EPR spectrum of the blue copper-protein azurin is described.
RESPONSE OF FETAL VASOACTIVE MEDIATORS TO INDUCED HYPOTENSION

To characterize the fetal response to change in blood pressure vasoactive mediators were measured during and after 60 min of sodium nitroprusside induced hypotension. Fetal arterial blood pressure was lowered by 10-20% in seven chronically catheterized fetal lambs (116-135 d). Fetal pHa (7.39±0.01), paCO2 (40.7±1.1 torr), PaO2 (22.1±0.9 torr), Osm (297.3±3 mosm/kg), and Na (144.5±1.4 meq/1 remained unchanged. Results (mean ±SEM, analyzed using ANOVA) on log plasma vasopressin (V), renin activity (PRA), epinephrine (E) and norepinephrine (NE) were: These experiments demonstrate that the fetus responds promptly to a hypotensive stress by secreting vasoactive mediators. We speculate that vasopressin and renin play an important role in the maintenance of fetal blood pressure, catecholamines playing a secondary role.
A Theoretical and Empirical Investigation of the Effects of Public Health Subsidies for STD Testing

The paper investigates, both theoretically and empirically, the private demand for STD testing and for protection against infection with emphasis on testing for the AIDS virus (HIV) and on the effects of public subsidies for such testing on the incidence of sexually transmitted diseases. We discuss the theoretical conditions under which subsidizing testing either increases or decreases disease incidence and provide evidence on the empirical significance of those conditions.
High-speed solid state recorder for airborne recce

Over ten years ago, when ATARS architecture and components were selected to operate at 200 feet at 600 knots, high-end digital tape recorders were the only solution for recording digital imagery for various tactical airborne reconnaissance platforms. But now an all solid-state solution for high speed recording has evolved. High-speed Solid State Recorder (HSSR), which is described in this paper. Trade-offs made during HSSR development are discussed showing how this new product's parameters were selected. Convergence of existing, Fairchild-proven, solid-state mass memory product technologies with availability of commercially driven, high- density FLASH memory chips produced this needed COTS solution to recording imagery or other high-speed digital data in harsh environments, typical of military fighter aircraft.© (1996) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Dual-pulse Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy for analysis of gaseous and aerosol systems: Plasma-analyte interactions

Abstract Dual-pulse LIBS has been previously investigated to a large extent on solid and liquid phase analytes, where it has been demonstrated to significantly enhance atomic emission signal intensity, and more importantly, to enhance the analyte peak-to-base and signal-to-noise ratios. This study focuses on the effects of an orthogonal dual-pulse laser configuration on the atomic emission response for both purely gaseous and calcium-based aerosol samples. The gaseous sample consisted of purified (i.e. aerosol free) air, from which nitrogen and oxygen spectral emission lines were analyzed. Measurements for the gaseous system resulted in no notable improvements with the dual-pulse configuration as compared to the single-pulse LIBS. Experiments were also conducted in purified air seeded with calcium-rich particles, which revealed a marked improvement in calcium atomic emission peak-to-base (∼ 2-fold increase) and signal-to-noise ratios (∼ 4-fold increase) with the dual-pulse configuration. In addition to increased analyte response, dual-pulse LIBS yielded an enhanced single-particle sampling rate when compared to conventional LIBS. Transmission measurements with respect to the plasma-creating laser pulse were recorded for both single and dual-pulse methods over a range of temporal delays. In consideration of the spectroscopic and transmission data, the plasma-analyte interactions realized with a dual-pulse methodology are explained in terms of the interaction with the initially expanding plasma shock wave, which differs between gaseous and particulate phase analytes, as reported in a recent study [V. Hohreiter, D.W. Hahn, Calibration effects for laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy of gaseous sample streams: analyte response of gas-phase species versus solid-phase species, Anal. Chem. 77 (2005) 1118–1124].
Substituent effects in the cyclohexenes 1.13C AND1H NMR spectroscopy of cis-4,5-dimethyl-4-cyclohexene and syn-cis-Δ4-octalin-1,2-dicarboxylic acids and their derivatives

1. CH3 group effects have been determined in the13C spectra of cis-1,4,5-trimethyl4-cyclohexene-, syn-cis-1-methyl-, and syn-cis-2-methyl-Δ4-octalin-1,2-dicarboxylic acids and their derivatives. 2. In the syn-cis-Δ4-octalin-1,2-dicarboxylic acids, and their esters, and in theγ-oxy acids of this same series, the cyclohexene ring is in predominantly in half-chair conformation with the substituent at the C1 atom in the axial position, and the substituent at the C2 atom in the equatorial position. 3. The cyclohexene ring is in the boat conformation in the anhydrides of the syn-cisΔ4-octalin-1,2-dicarboxylic acids and the corresponding lactones.
Exploring the connection between quasistationary and squared eigenfunction expansion techniques in soliton perturbation theory

Abstract We give a short review of the techniques that have been used to study soliton perturbations for nonlinear integrable systems in 1 + 1 dimensions. In particular, we discuss the connection between direct perturbation methods using squared eigenfunction expansions and quasistationary perturbation theory. We show for the KdV (Korteweg–de Vries) how the results for quasistationary approximations are related to those for the standard adiabatic perturbation theory.
Maternal serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels and the efficiency of labor in young nulliparas

Objective To evaluate the maternal serum dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) sulfate level as a factor influencing labor “efficiency” at term. Methods On admission to the labor and delivery unit, blood was collected from 55 term nulliparous women up to 25 years of age in active labor. Following delivery, umbilical venous cord blood was also collected. Pregnancies complicated by diabetes mellitus, hypertension, fetal growth restriction, tobacco use, corticosteroid use, or chorioamnionitis were excluded. Serum DHEA sulfate levels were measured by radioimmunoassay. Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels and other obstetric variables were correlated retrospectively with the clinically determined requirement for oxytocin augmentation of labor. The unpaired Student t test, Mann-Whitney test, and linear correlation were used for statistical analysis. P Results Oxytocin augmentation followed standard indications in 29 of the 55 patients. The mean (± standard error) maternal serum DHEA sulfate level was significantly lower in these patients than in the remaining 26 who progressed spontaneously through labor (99.31 ± 8.92 versus 135.05 ±12.30 μ g/dL, respectively; P = .02). With the exception of cervical dilation on admission, no significant demographic differences were identified between the two groups. The maternal serum DHEA sulfate level did not correlate significantly with cervical dilation on admission ( r = 0.03, P = .81). Conclusion Among term nulliparous women, maternal serum levels of DHEA sulfate are significantly lower in those clinically requiring pharmacologic augmentation than in those progressing spontaneously through labor. Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate may be an important factor in efficient labor.