cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Metal-catalyzed cross-coupling chemistry with polyhedral boranes

Over the past several decades, metal-catalyzed cross-coupling has emerged as a very powerful strategy to functionalize carbon-based molecules. More recently, some of the cross-coupling methodologies have been adapted to inorganic compounds including boron-rich clusters. The development of this chemistry relies on the ability to synthesize halogenated boron-rich clusters which can serve as electrophilic cross-coupling partners with nucleophilic substrates in the presence of a metal catalyst. While the cross-coupling chemistry with boron-clusters is conceptually reminiscent of that of its hydrocarbon counterparts, several key aspects including the spheroidal bulk of clusters and the distinct nature of boron-halogen/boron-heteroatom bonds make this chemistry unique. The utility of metal-catalyzed cross-coupling can be extended to several classes of polyhedral boranes including neutral and anionic carboranes, metallaboranes, and carbon-free boranes. Importantly, cross-coupling enables a suite of boron-heteroatom (C, N, O, P, S) couplings to prepare boron cluster-based systems that can be used for ligand design, medicinal chemistry, and materials applications.
A Memory-Efficient Markov Decision Process Computation Framework Using BDD-based Sampling Representation

Although Markov Decision Process (MDP) has wide applications in autonomous systems as a core model in Reinforcement Learning, a key bottleneck is the large memory utilization of the state transition probability matrices. This is particularly problematic for computational platforms with limited memory, or for Bayesian MDP, which requires dozens of such matrices. To mitigate this difficulty, we propose a highly memory-efficient representation for probability matrices using Binary Decision Diagram (BDD) based sampling, and develop a corresponding (Bayesian/classical) MDP solver on a CPU-GPU platform. Simulation results indicate our approach reduces memory by one and two orders of magnitude for Bayesian/classical MDP, respectively.CCS CONCEPTS• Theory of computation $\rightarrow$ Data compression; Parallel algorithms; Sequential decision making; • Mathematics of computing $\rightarrow$Bayesian computation;
Extracting Landscape Features from Single Particle Trajectories

The predictive power of dynamical models of cell signaling is often limited due to the difficulty in estimating the relevant kinetic parameters. Super-resolution microscopy techniques can provide in vivo trajectories of individual receptors, and serve as a direct source of quantitative information on molecular processes. Single particle tracking (SPT) has been used to extract reaction kinetic parameters such as dimer lifetimes and diffusion rates. However, signaling models aim to characterize kinetics relevant to the entire cell while SPT follows individual molecules in a small fraction of the cell. The gap in resolution can be bridged with spatial simulations of molecular movement, validated at SPT resolution, which are used to infer effective kinetics on larger spatial scales.
Organic Agriculture: The Science and Practices under a Changing Climate

Organic agriculture may be defi ned in different ways by different groups (i.e., farmers, agronomists, environmentalists, climate change scientists, and others); however, the large number of designations encountered in the scientifi c and popular literature for organic agriculture, may represent different production “ideologies.” Organic agriculture may encompass any food production system which minimizes the fl ow of inputs and outputs, sequesters nonrenewable resources, while maintaining, if not increasing, the internal fl ows of energy, mass and nutrients within the natural boundaries of that system. At a different level of assessment, organic agriculture was considered as a combination of regulations that will ensure effi cient use of natural resources and external inputs, and as such, is no different from integrated farm management. Furthermore, in a developing country context, organic agriculture embodies a broad set of practices that highlight farming based on ecosystem management, integrated crop-livestock systems, diversity of farm products, and reliance on natural integrated pest and disease management. Historically, most farms in developing countries are small subsistence crop-livestock family farms, and as such, are considered as organic due to lack or inaccessibility of external synthetic inputs.
Clinical Outcomes and Predictors of Lung Toxicity After Multiple Courses of Lung Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy for Early-Stage Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer.

Abstract Background The clinical outcomes of multicourse lung stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) have yet to be validated in a prospective study, and there are a lack of data on allowable composite dosimetry. Patients and Methods Forty-four patients underwent multicourse lung SBRT for recurrent or metachronous NSCLC. The median biologically effective dose (BED10) for the first course and subsequent courses were 132 and 100 Gy, respectively. Patient and treatment characteristics were evaluated to determine the correlation with the development of radiation pneumonitis (RP). Results The local control rate was 91%. A total of 13.6% developed a grade 2+ RP, and 4.5% developed a grade 3+ RP, including one grade 5. On univariable analysis, multiple composite dosimetric factors (V5 [proportion of lung structure receiving at least 5 Gy], V10, V20, V40, and mean lung dose) were correlated with the development of RP. When comprised of the first and second course of SBRT, a composite lung V5 of 50% was associated with a 0 and 75% incidence of grade 2+ RP, respectively. We identified no significant correlation on multivariable analysis but observed a strong trend between composite lung V5 and the development of grade 2+ RP (hazard ratio, 1.157; P = .058). Evaluation of multiple clinical factors also identified a significant correlation between the timing of repeat lung SBRT and the development of grade 2+ RP after the second course (P = .0028). Conclusion Subsequent courses of lung SBRT, prescribed to a median BED10 of 100 Gy, can provide a high rate of local control with a 4.5% incidence of grade 3+ toxicity. Composite lung V5 and the timing of the second course of lung SBRT may be correlated to the development of RP.
Legume-Feeding Lepidoptera of the Florida Keys: Potential Competitors of an Endangered Lycaenid Butterfly

Two Fabaceae in the Florida Keys, Pithecellobium keyense Coker and Guilandina bonduc Griseb., have been of interest because they are the larval host plants for the endangered Miami blue butterfly (Cyclargus thomasi bethunebakeri [Comstock & Huntington]; Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae). As a part of ongoing research and conservation for this butterfly, wild host plant material has been periodically collected in order to supplement a captive colony of C. t. bethunebakeri located in Gainesville, Florida, USA. In examining this plant material, 26 lepidopterans were detected, including several host records, a new continental record, and 2 likely undescribed species, 1 Aristotelia (Gelechiidae) and 1 Crocidosema (Tortricidae). Our results expand the geographic, life-history, and taxonomic understanding of lepidopteran herbivores that use P. keyense and G. bonduc in South Florida. Resumen En los Cayos de Florida, habitan dos especies de plantas hospederas criticas para el ciclo de vida de la mariposa Miami blue (Cyclargus thomasi bethunebakeri [Comstock y Huntington]; Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae), la cual esta en peligro de extincion. Ambas plantas son de la familia Fabaceae: Pithecellobium keyense Coker y Guilandina bonduc Griseb. Como parte de una investigacion de la conservacion de esta mariposa, periodicamente se recolectaron muestras de estas especies de plantas para suplementar una poblacion cautiva de C. t. bethunebakeri en Gainesville, Florida, EE. UU. Tras examinar el material vegetal colectado, encontramos veintiseis especies de Lepidopteros. Varios de estos corresponden a nuevos registros de plantas hospederas y uno de ellos corresponde a un registro nuevo para el continente. Ademas, encontramos dos especies probablemente no descritas, una del genero Aristotelia (Gelechiidae) y el otro del genero Crocidosema (Tortricidae). Nuestros resultados expanden el conocimiento de la geografia, historia de vida y taxonomia de Lepidopteros herbivoros que utilizan P. keyense y G. bonduc en el sur de la Florida. Key Words: Pithecellobium keyense; Guilandina bonduc; Fabaceae; herbivory View this article in BioOne
Does Peritraumatic Ketamine Reduce Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?

# INTRODUCTION Acute stress disorder (ASD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are chronic diseases which can affect patients following a severe trauma. As these patients typically first present to the emergency department, it is critical for emergency physicians to remain updated on the use of ketamine or other anesthetic agents which may impede development or reduce symptoms which may impair normal functioning. The purpose of this clinical review was is to review the literature regarding how the use of peritraumatic ketamine could decrease the incidence of ASD and PTSD. In 2019, the authors completed a MEDLINE search was performed yielding 25 articles which were initially evaluated by the first and second authors. Four articles which met inclusion criteria are discussed in this manuscript. # SUMMARY of EVIDENCE Although two earlier research groups have found that peritraumatic ketamine administration contributed to increased symptoms of PTSD (e g., reexperiencing, dissociation, avoidance, and hyperarousal), two later studies have indicated that ketamine had no effect on PTSD development. Additionally, one 2012 study group has suggested propofol use may alleviate PTSD symptoms at six months post-trauma. Another 2017 study team found that the number of surgical procedures was directly correlated with increased PTSD development. # CONCLUSIONS Based on the literature to date, peritraumatic ketamine does not appear to influence the prevention nor development of ASD and subsequent PTSD. More research is needed to clarify the psychopharmacologic effects of ketamine when used in the management of reactions to acute trauma experiences. Based on the results of the two later works, future research is indicated considering whether propofol may contribute to PTSD development.
Health care system barriers and facilitators to early prenatal care among diverse women in Florida.

Background Worldwide, women continue to experience barriers to accessing early prenatal care. Given the unique nature of the United States health care system, this study aimed to identify barriers and facilitators to early prenatal care reported by women in Florida. Methods A mixed-methods study of postpartum women with entry to care after 14 weeks' gestation was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Florida. First, eligible women completed a survey including demographic characteristics and open-ended questions on prenatal care barriers. Second, a semi-structured interview was conducted to contextualize the conditions of access. The qualitative analysis was based on the combined theoretical frameworks of Phillippi and Khan. Results The majority of the 55 participants self-identified as Hispanic (n = 28, 51%), non-Hispanic White (n = 12, 22%), or non-Hispanic Black (n = 9, 16%). Quantitative analysis identified frequent barriers, including the following: "couldn't get an appointment when wanted one" (n = 24, 47%); "didn't have insurance" (n = 21, 41%); and "not aware of pregnancy" (n = 21, 41%). From the combined quantitative and qualitative analyses, three major themes emerged that help to explain barriers faced by birthing people in Florida: personal factors (mental health, awareness of pregnancy, considering abortion, tumultuous life), community conditions (transportation, stigma/fear, social support), and health care system (language barriers, delay at clinic level, cost of care). Discussion Barriers to early prenatal care are multifaceted and operate at personal, societal, and health care systems levels. Prenatal care practitioners have multiple potential targets for interventions at the clinic level to help mitigate barriers to early prenatal care. Strategies should include health care policy reforms to Medicaid access and interventions at the clinic level aimed at fast-tracking access to care.
The Future of Data Standards and Storage: Harnessing Data Generation into a Standardized Repository.

Data storage and standards are often the last consideration, or given no consideration at all, when assessing human factors. Generally, objective and subjective data are collected and used for a specific purpose and then stored as needed by individual investigators. Data storage may include hard drives, hard copies, removable storage devices (e.g. USB sticks, DVDs), and a plethora of file types (e.g. delimited, pdfs, proprietary formats). Historically, these data have not been standardized or stored in a manner that allows for easy and widespread future access and use. This results in potential duplicate efforts and dollars, increased analysis time, and delays in decision making while waiting for new data to be generated. The cloud-based Army Experimentation Resource Data Repository (AERDR) was developed to address these issues. Here we present the repository framework and capabilities, representative data included in the repository, and challenges and considerations on standardizing data.
Ghosts of Machiavelli in Italian Political Cinema

Fabio Benincasa addresses the reasons why Machiavelli, despite being considered a founding father of the Italian nation, appears largely under-represented in the Italian media. Machiavelli’s ideas, reduced to a mere thirst for power at any cost, are rather attributed to a Kafkaesque and abstract conception of power. After the end of Neorealism, Italian political cinema romanticized the relationship between citizens and power as an abstract struggle against a generic and existential injustice. Only in recent years, with directors such as Ermanno Olmi, Marco Bellocchio, Mario Martone, and Paolo Sorrentino have the descriptions of these relationships between citizens and political power changed.
Crystal Structure and DFT Calculations of Bis(tetrahydridoborato)bis(cyclopentadienyl)zirconium(IV)

Metal borohydride (MBH4) compounds have been studied thoroughly for their potential as hydrogen storage materials. Zirconium borohydrides are one such class of metal borohydrides with hydrogen storage potential, however the interaction between the hydrides from BH4− and Zr presents an intriguing feature worth exploring. Cp2Zr(BH4)2 has been investigated for its potential as a hydrogen storage material and as a precursor for other hydrogen storage materials. But, to our knowledge, the structure of Cp2Zr(BH4)2 showing the position of the hydrides is unknown. We present here the crystal structure and DFT calculations of Cp2Zr(BH4)2 showing, for the first time, the position of the hydrides in relation to Zr. The crystal structure and DFT calculations of Cp2Zr(BH4)2 is reported showing, for the first time, the position of the hydrides attached to boron
Within-person longitudinal associations between electronic nicotine delivery systems use and smoking cessation efforts among U.S. continuing adult cigarette smokers.

Objectives Prior studies that examined the role of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) use in smoking cessation have shown divergent conclusions. This study examined the time-course of ENDS-associated smoking abstinent behaviors among continuing cigarette smokers who were willing but unable to quit smoking. Methods Data were drawn from the four waves of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study. Of the 1,684 smokers who tried to quit smoking completely at Wave 1, a total of 1,094 who were continuing smokers until Wave 4 and were not lost to follow-ups comprised the sample. Using generalized linear mixed modeling, we fitted weighted negative binomial regression models to examine within-person associations of ENDS use with quit attempts and number of days abstinent from smoking. Results Quit attempt frequency and smoking abstinent days were highest at Wave 1, dropped at Wave 2, and then either increased a little or remained stagnant in later waves. ENDS use to quit smoking was associated with more frequent quit attempts (aIRR=1.67, 95% CI=1.42-1.95) and more abstinent days (aIRR=3.28, 95% CI=2.43-4.44), and the magnitude of such associations became stronger over time. ENDS use was associated with becoming a non-daily smoker among baseline daily smokers. Conclusions ENDS use among continuing smokers may help increase the number of quit attempts and smoking abstinent days. Given that the study sample is continuing smokers who failed in complete smoking cessation, future research would be desirable that evaluates whether such abstinent behaviors sustain and manifest harm reduction with improved health outcomes. Implications Smokers increasingly adopt electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) to quit smoking. However, the association of ENDS use with smoking cessation efforts among continuing cigarette smokers who were willing but unable to quit smoking is largely unknown. This study found that quit attempts and smoking abstinent days increased with ENDS use to quit smoking by following up with population-representative continuing smokers. Additionally, this study assessed whether cigarette smokers' abstinent behaviors vary with their use of ENDS by estimating within-person associations with frequent assessments of both exposures and outcomes in a long-term perspective.
Applications of exposure techniques in behavioral medicine

Publisher Summary The pain anxiety and emotional disclosure literatures are much more recent than those of blood-injection-injury (BII) and dental phobia and concomitantly less developed. A well-designed set of small-sample replication studies suggests that in chronic pain rehabilitation programs, based on instrumental learning principles, targeting pain anxiety directly with in vivo exposure to pain-related fear stimuli extinguishes pain anxiety and facilitate increasing functional capacity. In the migraine headache literature, a case has been made for prolonged exposure to headache triggers to facilitate desensitization of trigger-sensitization hypothesized to develop through long-term avoidance. Viewing the emotional disclosure protocol as an exposure technique rather than as a means to reduce the stress of inhibition and bring about insight has implications for modifying the protocol in a way that may potentially enhance its efficacy.
MyLibrary: A Model for Implementing a User-centered, Customizable Interface to a Library's Collection of Information Resources

The paper describes an extensible model for implementing a user-centered, customizable interface to a library's collection of information resources. This model, called MyLibrary, integrates the principles of librarianship (collection, organization, dissemination, and evaluation) with globally networked computing resources creating a dynamic, customer-driven front-end to any library's set of materials. The model supports a framework for libraries to provide enhanced access to local and remote sets of data, information, and knowledge. At the same, the model does not overwhelm its users with too much information because the users control exactly how much information is displayed to them at any given time. The model is active and not passive; direct human interaction, computer mediated guidance and communication technologies, as well as current awareness services all play indispensable roles in this system.
A flexible 4/spl times/16 MIMO testbed with 250 MHz - 6 GHz tuning range

The matrix channel measurement system (MCMS) is a new instrument for multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) channel measurements up to 4/spl times/16, and other applications. Notable features are: (1) tuning range from 250 MHz to 6 GHz; (2) support for up to 16 receive antennas simultaneously, achieved using a novel data aggregation architecture using concurrent serial buses; (3) sustained instantaneous bandwidth of 1 MHz continuously or up to 40 MHz in an asynchronously-triggered "burst" mode; (4) portable design suitable. for operation in field conditions under battery power.
Evidence for the activation of complement via the alternate pathway in skin diseases. II. Dermatitis herpetiformis.

Abstract Seven patients with dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) were studied employing immunofluorescent techniques with monospecific antisera to various immunoglobulins, complement, and alternate pathway components. This study demonstrates: 1. 1. IgA deposition occurs adjacent to the skin basement membrane in a granular pattern and is unrelated to disease activity. 2. 2. C3 proactivator (C3PA) was found in areas corresponding to IgA deposition in four patients and a similar properdin deposition was found in one. 3. 3. C3 in sites corresponding to IgA deposition was found only in active disease. No C3 deposition was found in patients whose disease was controlled with dapsone. 4. 4. Clq was found in only one of 20 biopsies. No definite C4 staining was found. These observations are consistent with the suggestion that complement activation, mediated by IgA via the alternate pathway, is involved in the pathogenesis of the skin lesions in DH.
Nationalizing to liberalize: Credibility in trade liberalization

Abstract The credibility problem in trade liberalization has been studied in terms of asymmetric information between government and the private sector with resolution through reputational or signaling equilibria. This paper, in contrast, recognizes the genuine time-inconsistency problem with trade liberalization in countries where institutional underdevelopment implies tariffs are the major source of revenues. The welfare implications of the resulting credibility problem are analyzed. It is further shown that government policies can help resolve the problem. Government investment in the exportables sector is presented as an optimal commitment strategy that can lead to full credibility of the otherwise time-inconsistent optimal tariffs.
32/spl times/32-bit optoelectronic database filter based on CMOS photonic VLSI technology

A 32/spl times/32-bit database filter for relational database applications is presented. Based on CMOS photonic VLSI technology, this chip monolithically integrates page-oriented optical reading, data selection/projection logic, buffer and control interface with an electronic host computer.
Spontaneous chimerism in mammals: a critical review.

The rapid developments of human cytogenetics in the last decade and, more recently, that of other mammals, has demonstrated that chromosomal abnormalities are frequent biological occurrences. Not only have numerical errors of human and animal zygotes been defined, many other irregularities of the genome, such as deletions, translocations and inversions have been recognized. The genetic study of some such individuals has shown clearly that some are the result of faulty gametogenesis, i.e., the maldistribution of chromosomes during first and second maturation divisions of meiosis.
Sharing Common Ground: Learning About Oppression Through an Experiential Game

Abstract This paper describes the use of a simulation to teach new social work students about social injustice, discrimination and oppression. The group exercise “Community Build” contributes to students and faculty expanding their dialogue about oppression and promoting students' sense of responsibility to effect social change. One hundred and ninety-three new graduate students participated in this exercise during the 1998 and 1999 fall orientations. At the end of the fall semester the students who participated in the exercise were compared to students who had not attended the simulation. Quantitative findings showed that students who had participated in this exercise felt more personal responsibility for social issues and more power to create change, while also being more perceptive to the effect of one's community than the students who had not participated in the exercise.
Optimizing the time cost of the parallel structures with a limited number of processors

We develop an allocation algorithm that, in conjunction with optimal scheduling algorithms, yields the minimum time cost for a parallel structure. We assume a shared memory environment and a limited number of processors that is less than the degree of parallelism of the parallel structure. >
A Method for Studying Absorption of Water and Solute from the Human Small Intestine

Summary A triple-lumen intubation technique is described whereby absorption or secretion of water, electrolytes, and other solutes can be studied within specific and defined test segments of the human small intestine. The technique allows correction for endogenous water and solute that enter the test segment from digestive secretions. Experiments that were carried out to test the precision of the method have demonstrated the technique to have a high degree of accuracy when 1-hr study periods are used.
Mechanisms of Inbreeding Avoidance in Nonhuman Primates

Anthropologists have long noted that there is a universal tendency for humans to avoid and to prohibit sexual activity between various categories of relatives. This universal phenomenon of incest avoidance was regarded by some as a uniquely human characteristic that sets humans apart from animals. Recently, however, it has become clear that many animals also avoid mating with their close relatives, and several anthropologists have pointed to a biological basis for human incest taboos (e.g., Bischof, 197S; van den Berghe, 1982; Durham, in press). In this chapter, this author reviews the evidence that nonhuman primates avoid mating with their relatives and almost never breed with them. “Inbreeding” is used as a general term to describe breeding with consanguineous relatives. Close inbreeding is defined as “mating and breeding with first-degree relatives such as parents or siblings” and is synonymous with incest as it is defined in this volume.
A Quantitative Approach to Habituation and to Evaluation of the Effects of Noisy Neural Pathways in a Crayfish System

The walk response to photostimulation of the crayfish caudal photoreceptor system is analyzed in terms of statistical dependence between input and output utilizing information theory. The analysis provides an identification of habituation and dishabituation in this system. Further, one of the dishabituatory responses can itself be seen to habituate and dishabituate. A quantitative measure of the statistical dependence of walk response on light stimulus intensity is found and compared with similar calculations presented previously for the ability of the neural pathways involved in this system to transmit information. It is shown that dispersion of interpulse intervals during axonal and synaptic transmission does not significantly limit the dependence of the behavioral walk response on the intensity of light stimulation.
Research Note: Expansionary Phase Grower Return on Assets in North Georgia

Abstract Payments made to a sample of 60 North Georgia broiler contract growers were examined for the 1982 to 1986 expansionary phase of the broiler commodity cycle. Income return to assets was calculated by using the payments and uniform labor, operating, and depreciation costs of $743.29 per 92.9 m2/yr. Results show that before-tax income rate of return on assets ranged from 1.76 to 17.65%, with a mean of 8.7%. These results exceed the income rate of return on general production agriculture assets during the expansionary period of the 1970’s. Even when capital gains are included for general production agriculture, grower rates of return are similar to those of production agriculture as a whole in a comparable expansionary period.
Nanometre‐scale spheroids on sands, Vulcano, Sicily: possible nannobacterial alteration

Spheroids in the size range of 30–200 nm coat sand grains on sediments around the island of Vulcano. They occur as single individuals, as ball-shaped clumps resembling biological colonies with radiating chains of bodies, and eventually merge into sheets in which the individual nannobacteria are no longer evident. Rarely, they appear to bore into the glass grains. Older rocks are composed mainly of closely packed nanospheroids. These spheroids are believed to be nannobacterial cells based on their resemblance to nannobacteria found in other surficial environments, and their occurrence in colony-like groups. If so, nannobacteria play a very important role in the destruction of volcanic materials on Vulcano.
Isolation of an enzyme system which will catalyze the glycosylation of extensin.

Enzymes which catalyze the glycosylation of the cell wall protein extensin using uridine diphosphate l-arabinose-14C as a substrate are present in a crude extract prepared from suspension cultured sycamore cells (Acer pseudoplatanus L.). This enzyme system sediments when the crude extract is subjected to centrifugation at 37000g. A base hydrolysate of the product contains a mixture of hydroxyproline-arabinosides which are electrophoretically and chromatographically identical to those obtained by hydrolysis of extensin isolated from the cell wall. The hydroxyproline-rich protein used as an acceptor in the glycosylation reactions is present in the particulate fraction. In addition, evidence is presented which indicates that hydroxyproline-rich tryptic peptides prepared from the cell wall can also be used as an acceptor by this enzyme system. The presence of Mg2+ or Mn2+ in the reaction mixture increases the enzyme-catalyzed incorporation of arabinose into extensin by about 1.4 times. About two-thirds of the product mixture is composed of arabinose-containing compounds which have not been identified. Some of these products appear to be hydroxyproline-glycosides which have not been previously reported.
Air-pollution and congenital anomalies

Congenital anomalies, a leading cause of fetal loss, contribute significantly to preterm birth and childhood and adult morbidity. Serious structural defects are present in 3%–8% of newborns worldwide and, while some can readily be attributed to chromosomal or syndromic disorders or known teratogenic or fetotoxic agents, a recent commentary maintained that the causes for most anomalies remain a mystery.1 Maternal smoking during pregnancy has long been associated with birth defects2 and numerous biological pathways have been identified whereby particulate air pollutants might impact on the placenta and fetus (reviewed in Kannan et al 3) providing biological rationale for the assessment of air pollution's influence on fetal development. Although quantitatively lower than exposure from maternal smoking, exposure to ambient air pollutants affects large populations and, importantly, is not modifiable by the individual and is thus of great public health and policy relevance. The study by Dolk et al 4 in this issue ( see page 223 ) is the latest in the small set of publications investigating air pollution's impact on birth defects,5–10 a subset of the larger body of literature focussing on air pollution's effect on the more common adverse birth outcomes (ie, preterm birth and low birth weight) which are considered more general indicators of abnormal fetal development. The California5 and Texas6 studies reported positive associations between some specific cardiac defects and several but different pollutants measured at the air monitoring station closest to the mother's home during weeks 3–8 of gestation. …
The specific heat of dilute metallic alloys

Abstract The connection between the Green function technique for enumerating the eigenstates in the dilute alloy problem and the phase shift analysis of Friedel is presented. An expression is given for the change in specific heat upon alloying in terms of the energy derivative of the scattering phase shifts.
LAY CONCEPTS IN INFORMED CONSENT TO BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH: THE CAPACITY TO UNDERSTAND AND APPRECIATE RISK

Persons generally must give their informed consent to participate in research. To provide informed consent persons must be given information regarding the study in simple, lay language. Consent must be voluntary, and persons giving consent must be legally competent to consent and possess the capacity to understand and appreciate the information. This paper examines the relationship between the obligation to disclose information regarding risks and the requirement that persons have the capacity to understand and appreciate the information. There has been insufficient attention to the extent to which persons must be able to understand and appreciate study information in order to have their consent deemed valid when the information is provided in simple, lay language. This paper argues that (1) the capacity to understand and appreciate information that should be deemed necessary to give valid consent should be defined by the capacity of the typical, cognitively normal adult and (2) the capacity of the typical, cognitively normal adult to understand and appreciate the concept of risk is limited. Therefore, (3) all things being equal, potential subjects must possess a limited capacity to understand and appreciate risk to be deemed competent to consent to research participation. (4) In some cases investigators ought to require that persons possess a greater than typical capacity to understand and appreciate risk.
The Higgs Boson: the search for the particle and the role of simulation

Answers to pressing questions in high-energy physics may lie in electroweak symmetry breaking, the phenomenon for explaining why the weak and electromagnetic forces are different. From solving the mystery of dark energy to string theory, our entire philosophy depends on the unknown physics at the electroweak scale. The hunt for the elusive Higgs boson has gone on for almost half a century. Its discovery was finally announced on July 4, 2012. The discovery of the Higgs boson is even more significant than often discussed. This grand experimental achievement in the largest, most powerful machine ever built, the Large Hadron Collider, marks a far wider scientific, philosophical and intellectual triumph -- and one that spans human history from the dawn of civilization. It has to do with the idea of symmetry: amazingly, the Higgs boson was predicted to exist not for any physical reasons, but on strictly mathematical grounds based on arcane symmetries usually studied in "pure" mathematics. And the search for these symmetries involves a major quest that began with the Babylonians and Egyptians and continued to the ancient Greeks, the Arabs, medieval Europe, and on through the 19th century to our own time. This talk will begin with a brief overview of particle physics and why the Higgs Boson is so important and how it completes the symmetry. It will then explain how one goes about searching for this particle and expand the critical role simulation efforts played not only in the final analysis but also in designing the detector systems, which truly are modern marvels. I will discuss with some other highlights from these experiments and what to expect as the LHC gears up to come back on line in early 2015 at its design energy, nearly double its current 8 GeV operating point. Finally, I will close with a few words on particle physics and society and how the search for the perhaps esoteric has benefited society.
The distribution and variation of Synura species (Chrysophyceae) in Connecticut, USA

The genus Synura was found to be an important member of the phytoplankton communities in many Connecticut lakes, present in more than fifty percent of the 113 collections made during 1984. Thirteen taxa, including a new forma, Synura petersenii f. truttae, were recorded for the first time in Connecticut waters using SEM. S. petersenii was the most important species, present in forty-one percent of the samples. Evidence for denoting S. petersenii var. glabra as a form, instead of a variety, is presented. Ecological preferences for some species are discussed.
Factors influencing teachers' engagement in informal learning activities

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to examine factors influencing the engagement of public school teachers in informal learning activities.Design/methodology/approach – This study used a survey research design.Findings – Analysis of the data found that teachers rely to a greater degree on interactive than on independent informal learning activities. Three environmental factors inhibit teachers from engaging in informal learning activities: lack of time, lack of proximity to colleagues' work areas, and insufficient funds. In addition, seven personal characteristics enhance teachers' motivation to engage in informal learning: initiative, self‐efficacy, love of learning, interest in the profession, commitment to professional development, a nurturing personality, and an outgoing personality.Research limitations/implications – A limitation of this study was the survey's response rate of 27.7 percent.Practical implications – The findings from this study give rise to three implications for facilitating infor...
Response of a one-dimensional Vlasov plasma to external electric fields.

The nonlinear response of a Vlasov plasma has been calculated numerically for several externally applied electric field configurations. In the presence of a standing wave of frequency ω0 ≳ ωpe, the energy of the particle distribution and the envelope of the particle electric field were found to oscillate slowly with approximately the period of the trapped particles. Analogous spatial oscillations have been reported by Malmberg and Wharton. Bernstein, Greene, and Kruskal equilibria were calculated for a constant, sinusoidal inhomogeneity in the background ion charge density and found to be numerically stable against small perturbations. Landau‐damping rates for the perturbations are compared with the calculations of Jackson and Raether. In the presence of a slowly varying (ω0 ≪ ωpe) inhomogeneous background (simulating an ion acoustic wave) the electrons were found to obey a locally isothermal equation of state to within a few percent for the times that could be calculated. The response of an initially uni...
On the use of computerized simulations for entrepreneurship education

The potential for business games to teach entrepreneurship was investigated. Relatively few simulations are available for this purpose, and those available are very limited in their ability to cove...
Adnexal Masses in Pediatric and Adolescent Females: A Review of the Literature

Adnexal masses are uncommon in the pediatric and adolescent population. The differential diagnosis includes ovarian lesions, tubal or paratubal lesions, nongynecologic lesions, and lesions related to infection or pregnancy. Presenting symptoms vary and may include acute abdominal pain, mass effect, and less commonly, precocious puberty and vaginal bleeding. Most of these lesions represent benign pathology, but malignant lesions are identified in a small subset of patients, and appropriate surgical and postoperative management is essential. It is important for clinicians caring for these patients to understand the differential diagnosis of an adnexal mass, to facilitate correct management (whether surgical or nonsurgical) and necessary referrals where appropriate. This review explores the etiologies, presenting symptoms, and appropriate management options for pediatric and adolescent patients with adnexal masses. There are few clinical trials guiding the management of these patients, and existing data comprise primarily case series and retrospective studies.
Some aspects of the constant-conversion policy dealing with catalyst deactivation

Abstract Some practical aspects of the constant-conversion rising-temperature policy dealing with catalyst deactivation are discussed. Included are the extraction of deactivation kinetics from observables, the selection of optimum operating conditions under various process constraints, and the use of accelerated aging for acquiring information on catalyst life.
Thermodynamic Properties of the Isomers of [HNOS], [HNO2S], and [HNOS2] and the Role of the Central Sulfur

Simple hydrides of compounds containing N, S, and O are of significant interest due to the role that they play in atmospheric chemistry and in biological pathways. There is a lack of quantitative thermodynamic data on these compounds. We have used a reliable computational chemistry approach based on valence CCSD(T) calculations extrapolated to the complete basis set limit with additional corrections to predict the heats of formation and bond dissociation energies of such compounds. The results show that compounds with the ability of the central S atom to effectively expand its valency leads to more stable isomers and, as a consequence, that those with the NSO structural motif are thermochemically more stable than those with the SNO motif. In addition, SO bonds are preferred over NO bonds.
Effective Thermal Diffusivity for a Multimaterial Composite Laminate

This paper discusses the development of an ''effective thermal diffusivity'' which can be used to estimate the temperature response at the insulated rear surface of a multilayer composite to a step in temperature at the front surface of the composite. An example is considered using the effective value along with the mathematics of a single layer problem, and results thereof are compared with both those of an exact solution, and those which use an effective diffusivity computed from a ''lumped'' parameter model.
Thermally Curing Aryl−Ethynyl End-Capped Imide Oligomers: Study of New Aromatic End Caps

Two new aryl−ethynyl end-cap model compounds, N-phenyl-4-(1-naphthylethynyl)phthalimide (1) and N-phenyl-4-(2-naphthylethynyl)phthalimide (3), were synthesized and characterized. The single-crystal molecular structure of 1 reveals an alternating “head to tail” packing mode whereas the “heads and tails” of 2 are aligned and not alternating. The thermal cure kinetics of 1 and 3 were analyzed using NMR and FT-IR spectroscopy, respectively, and compared to N-phenyl-4-phenylethynylphthalimide (2). In both cases the naphthyl−ethynyl model compounds reacted faster than the phenyl−ethynyl derivative. The end-capped imide oligomers analogues of 1 and 2, NETI-5 and PETI-5, respectively, were synthesized and their thermal cure kinetics were analyzed by DSC. The thermal cure kinetics of 1 and 2 best fit a first-order rate law. Compound 1 cures at faster rates than 2, although the calculated Ea values of 1 and 2 are statistically indistinguishable. The thermal cure kinetics of 2 and 3 also fit a first-order rate law a...
Dynamic imaging of accommodation by swept-source anterior-segment optical coherence tomography

Purpose To study the accommodation process in normal eyes using a commercially available clinical system based on swept-source anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT). Setting Ophthalmology Department, University of Parma, Italy. Design Evaluation of diagnostic technology. Methods Right eyes were analyzed using swept-source AS-OCT (Casia SS-1000). The optical vergence of the internal coaxial fixation target was adjusted during imaging to obtain monocular accommodation stimuli with different amplitudes (0, 3.0, 6.0, and 9.0 diopters [D]). Overlapping of real and conjugate OCT images enabled imaging of all the anterior segment optical surfaces in a single frame. Central corneal thickness (CCT), anterior chamber depth (ACD), and lens thickness were extracted from the OCT scans acquired at different static accommodation stimulus amplitudes. The crystalline lens was analyzed dynamically during accommodation and disaccommodation by acquiring sequential OCT images of the anterior segment at a rate of 8 frames per second. The lens thickness was extracted from the temporal sequence of OCT images and plotted as a function of time. Results The study analyzed 14 eyes of 14 subjects aged 18 to 46 years. During accommodation, the decrease in the ACD was statistically significant ( P P P P Conclusion High-resolution real-time imaging and biometry of the accommodating anterior segment can be effectively performed using a commercially available swept-source AS-OCT clinical device. Financial Disclosure No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.
MCD Spectra for Metal-Centered Transitions in the Hg(3)(dppm)(3)(4+) Cluster Complex.

The magnetic circular dichroism (MCD) spectrum for Hg(3)(dppm)(3)(SO(4))(2), dppm = bis(diphenylphosphino)methane, in 5:3:2 v/v ethanol-methanol-ether solvent in the range 2.5-3.7 mm(-)(1) (1 mm(-)(1) = 10(4) cm(-)(1)) at 295 K (solution) shows two minima at 2.99 and 3.41 mm(-)(1), which resolve into a positive A term at 3.12 mm(-)(1) and a negative B term at 3.40 mm(-)(1) at 80 K (rigid glass). The absorption spectrum shows an intense band at 3.05 mm(-)(1) at 295 K which sharpens and shifts slightly to 3.09 mm(-)(1) at 80 K. The 80 K spectrum also reveals a lower intensity band maximum clearly resolved at 3.40 mm(-)(1). The MCD and absorption spectra are interpreted in terms of 6s 6s sigma --> sigma and 6s 6p sigma --> pi metal-centered transitions. The A term in the region of the lowest energy band is ascribed to the sigma --> pi transition to the spin-orbit E' state of (3)A(2)" origin.
Relationship between glomerular filtration rate and 24-hour urine composition in patients with nephrolithiasis.

Objective To examine the relationship between GFR and 24-hour urine composition in patients with nephrolithiasis to understand how renal function may affect stone risk. Alterations in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) are associated with a number of physiological changes. Methods A retrospective, institutional review board–approved review of patients from 2 metabolic stone clinics was performed. One-way analysis of variance and multivariate linear regression models were used to evaluate the relationship between GFR quintile and 24-hour urine composition. Results A total of 403 patients (241 male, 162 female) with a mean age of 52.6 ± 14.2 years were included in the study. On univariate analysis, decreasing GFR by quintile was associated with significant reductions in urine calcium, citrate, supersaturation of calcium oxalate, and supersaturation of calcium phosphate (P Conclusion Reduction in GFR is associated with decreased urine calcium, oxalate, and citrate, and increased urine magnesium. These findings have implications for treatment of patients with stone disease and impaired renal function.
Solution quality improvement in chiller loading optimization

Abstract In order to reduce greenhouse gas emission, we can energy-efficiently operate a multiple chiller system using optimization techniques. So far, various optimization techniques have been proposed to the optimal chiller loading problem. Most of those techniques are meta-heuristic algorithms such as genetic algorithm, simulated annealing, and particle swarm optimization. However, this study applied a gradient-based method, named generalized reduced gradient, and then obtains better results when compared with other approaches. When two additional approaches (hybridization between meta-heuristic algorithm and gradient-based algorithm; and reformulation of optimization structure by adding a binary variable which denotes chiller’s operating status) were introduced, generalized reduced gradient found even better solutions.