cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Design and Development of a Protective Face Mask to Mitigate Community Spread and Prevent Wearer Infection from COVID - 19 Using Design Thinking

Relatively early during the start of the COVID-19 pandemic it was widely recognized that community spread could be mitigated by the widespread wearing of face masks. However, at first, they were difficult to procure and the CDC discouraged the use of masks for the general public since this might cause shortages for healthcare workers. Subsequently, the CDC suggested that cloth masks, without filters, should be used by the general public since these were considered ineffective for healthcare workers. Using the concepts of design thinking, effective protective face masks with filters were designed and developed using readily available materials that could be used by the general public.
Minimally Invasive "3-Stitch" Modification of the Dor Fundoplication: Simple and Effective.

Background A 180-degree anterior (Dor) fundoplication is usually paired with an esophagogastric myotomy in the surgical treatment of achalasia. The traditional technique, however, is not easily reversible and the execution is variable. This study examined a simplified ‘‘3-stitch’’ Dor fundoplication that addressed these challenges and presented the results. Methods A prospectively collected, longitudinal surgical achalasia database was queried for patients undergoing a Heller myotomy with ‘3-stitch 180-degree fundoplication from 2008 to 2019. Preoperative and postoperative Eckardt score, postoperative DeMeester score (24- or 48-hour pH studies), and endoscopic evidence of esophagitis were collected and analyzed to determine the effectiveness and safety of the fundoplication. Length of stay and complications were also considered. Results The pH testing was performed in 296 patients, with 17% (50 of 296) demonstrating abnormal esophageal acid exposure. Of this group, only 8% (16 of 201) manifested clinical esophagitis on upper endoscopy. A total of 14% (7 of 50) of patients with abnormal esophageal acid exposure were symptomatic. Total postoperative Eckhardt scores for this cohort were 3 or lower in 92% of patients, with a dysphagia-specific score of 0 in 92%. The technical details of a modified 180-degree anterior fundoplication are described. Conclusions The 3-stitch Dor fundoplication is an effective addition to a minimally invasive Heller myotomy, with good palliation of symptoms and an acceptable rate of acid reflux. The simplified construction anticipates the potential progression of esophageal dysmotility in patients with achalasia, and the modified technique is reproducible and readily teachable.
A radiographic method for distinguishing noncavitated from cavitated proximal carious lesions. A proof of concept clinical trial.

Objectives We propose a new topical radiographic contrast method for distinguishing noncavitated from cavitated radiolucencies. Laboratory tests and a pilot clinical trial were designed to test the feasibility and efficacy of the method. Study Design Twenty-two adults with 27 proximal radiolucencies had conventional bitewing (BW) examinations. After exclusion, 21 surfaces were evaluated. A concentrated solution of sodium iodide was placed in the interdental spaces via a microsyringe and BWs were again exposed. A class II cavity preparation was made in the adjacent tooth and polysiloxane impressions were made of the study surfaces. The impressions were scanned by visible light, creating a high resolution 3D replica. Cavitations, if present, were measured. Results Nine surfaces were noncavitated and 12 surfaces were cavitated. The microsyringe dispensed a variable volume of liquid, which affected the accuracy of the test. The sensitivity for cavitation was 50%, specificity was 88.9%, and accuracy was 66.7%. This compares to a reported 60% sensitivity, 62% specificity, and 62% accuracy for BW examinations. Intraexaminer reliability for classifying noncavitated or cavitated lesions using the kappa test was 0.649. Conclusions This method needs improvement but was an advance over conventional BWs and could result in reduction of restorations in low- and high-risk patients.
Minimally Invasive Dorsal Cheilectomy and Hallux Metatarsal Phalangeal Joint Arthroscopy for the Treatment of Hallux Rigidus

Background:Hallux rigidus (HR) is a common source of forefoot pain and disability. For those who fail nonoperative treatment, minimally invasive dorsal cheilectomy (MIDC) is an increasingly popular...
Persistent efforts and opportune moments: women’s groups and gender quota adoption in Central and Eastern Europe

After the fall of communism in Central and Eastern Europe scholars noted that the percentage of women in CEE parliaments plummeted from previous levels, from 30% in some countries during communism ...
The Competitive Business Impact of Using Telemedicine for the Treatment of Patients with Chronic Conditions

The use of telemedicine to improve patients’ health has been evolving rapidly over the past few years. Initially, our clinical research focus was on the development of effective ways for treating chronically ill patients, mostly suffering from neurological disorders. While we identified the medical benefits of this information technology, there remains a salient strategic question addressing its competitive impact. In this paper, we analyze the impact of introducing telemedicine on the market share of the specialty hospital deploying this technology and on the competing hospitals in the region. Our analytical results prove that, contrary to earlier expectations, the value of telemedicine relative to in-person visits is not always increasing with the distance of the patient from the hospital. This result explains why patients located far from the specialty hospital may not prefer telemedicine care. We also prove that telemedicine, unlike numerous other e-commerce applications, does not lead to the “winner takes all” phenomenon. We also found that the advent of telemedicine changes the competitive equilibrium between specialty hospitals and community hospitals. Both hospital types will significantly benefit from delivering complementary care to chronic patients, rather than continuing to compete with each other.
Slow colonic transit in systemic sclerosis: an objective assessment of risk factors and clinical phenotype.

Introduction Up to 50% of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) experience slow colonic transit, which may be associated with severe outcomes. We therefore sought to identify specific clinical features associated with slow colonic transit in SSc. Methods SSc patients with gastrointestinal symptoms were prospectively enrolled and completed a scintigraphy-based whole gut transit study. Clinical features were compared between patients with and without slow colonic transit in univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses. Results Forty-eight out of 100 (48%) patients in our cohort had slow colonic transit. In the univariate analyses, slow colonic transit was positively associated with female sex (OR 12.61, 95% CI 1.56-101.90), telangiectasia (OR 4.00, 95% CI 1.32-12.10), anti-centromere antibodies (OR 3.25, 95% CI 1.25-8.44), prior or current smoking (OR 2.56, 95% CI 1.06-6.21), and a Medsger GI severity score of ≥3 (OR 3.94, 95% CI 1.16-13.36). Patients were less likely to have significant restriction on pulmonary function tests (OR 0.23, 95% CI 0.09-0.63). In our multivariable model, the association between slow colonic transit and telangiectasia (OR=3.97, 95% CI 1.20-13.20) and less restrictive lung disease on PFTs (OR=0.28, 95% CI 0.09-0.86) remained statistically significant, though a trend with smoking remained (OR 2.16; 95% CI 0.82-5.75). Interestingly, there were no significant associations between slow colonic transit and delayed transit in other regions of the GI tract. Conclusions Distinct clinical features are associated with slow colonic transit in SSc. Such features may provide insight in risk stratification and the study of disease mechanism in more homogenous subgroups.
Sign Normalized Rank 1 Drinfeld Modules

In this section we will present the construction of “sign-normalized” rank one Drinfeld modules. These play the role of the Carlitz module for general A. This basic construction is due to David Hayes [Ha3] [Ha2]. Thus we will also call them “Hayes-modules.” We will use Hayes-modules to construct a “cyclotomic theory” of function fields. The reader will find much that is familiar in these extensions from classical theory.
Bits & Pieces & Moral Authority: The Paradox of Success in the 'Unregulated' 19th Century New York Capital Markets

In this age of Enron and WorldCom it may be hard to fathom the notion of successful, robust capital markets without extensive government regulation. Yet the 19th century New York capital markets offer a striking picture of success despite the aura of Robber Baron buccaneering. This paper will describe how the New York markets fostered the growth of great enterprises - first the railroads and then the supporting cast of gigantic industrials - by breaking the investment into tiny bits - shares that sanctioned the infusion of massive amounts of domestic and European capital. Security came from the liquidity provided, thus overcoming the lock-up, hold-up effect present in smaller, family-controlled corporations or partnerships. The paper also addresses the riotous nature of the mid-century markets and their manipulation by unscrupulous investors such as the early Jay Gould and Daniel Drew. It shows how the moral authority of great investment bankers, like Morgan, reputable brokers and the New York Stock Exchange exerted their considerable influence to render the markets relatively transparent and safe for domestic and foreign capital, all the while in a climate of legislative and judicial corruption. An interesting model for modern mind to ponder.
Housing Conditions and Housing Options for Older Residents

Abstract Clients of senior center programs in three rural regions of Illinois were asked about their current housing conditions and what senior housing options they might seek. Questions from the American Housing Survey were used to identify whether housing units have moderate or severe physical problems. Older rural residents were also asked what senior housing options they might consider using as they age and under what conditions they would consider those options. A sample of 490 rural residents was obtained. Overall, respondents rated the condition of their houses quite highly though the data reveal important differences based on age, length of residence, and housing tenure. Data reveals a clear preference for certain housing options. Information gathered can be used to help housing advocates and community leaders develop housing options during a period of growing need and shrinking budgets.
FURTHER STUDIES ON THE INFLUENCE OF HISTAMINE ON PLATELET ACTIVITY, WITH ESPECIAL REFERENCE TO ITS ACTION ON THE BLOOD OF THE HEMOPHILIAC PATIENT

Clinically and experimentally intravenous and subcutaneous injections of histamine increase directly the qualitative disintegrative ability of the blood platelets. It has no effect on the total platelet count (quantitative action) until shocklike levels are obtained. It then causes a decrease in the number of the circulating platelets in the blood. This qualitative action may be in part due to an antagonistic action between heparin and histamine. Heparin in high concentrations does not inhibit completely the increased tendency toward in vitro agglutination of the platelets exposed in vivo to histamine. In 22 hemophiliac boys, intravenous and subcutaneous injections of histamine decreased the coagulation time of the blood by increasing the platelet disintegration in 19 patients. It was a complete failure in three of the boys. The action of the histamine is not permanent, and tends to become less efficient as more injections are given. However, it is sufficient to cause a cessation of bleeding and to decrease the coagulation time of the blood to its normal value for that person in the majority of instances.
Structure-Property Phase Diagram of BaZrxTi1−xO3 System

In the course of searching environmental friendly lead-free relaxor ferroelectrics a complete phase diagram of barium zirconate titanate, Ba(Zr x Ti 1-x )O 3 system with compositions 0.00≤x≤1.00 has been developed based on their dielectric behavior. It has been shown that BaZr x Ti 1-x O 3 system depending on the composition, successively depicts the properties extending from simple dielectric (pure BaZr0 3 ) to polar cluster dielectric, relaxor ferroelectric, second order like diffuse phase transition, ferroelectric with pinched phase transitions and then to a proper ferroelectric (pure BaTiO 3 ). A comprehensive structure-property correlation of BaZr x Ti 1-x O 3 ceramics has been studied to understand the various ferroelectric phenomena in the whole phase diagram.
Simulation of resonance energy transfer in carbon nanotube composites for photovoltaic applications

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are interesting for use as the light-absorbing material in photovoltaic devices. We study the intertube exciton transfer rates in CNT films. The excitonic states in semiconducting CNTs are calculated by solving the Bethe-Salpeter equation. The resonance energy transfer rates are calculated using Fermi's golden rule. We calculate the exciton transfer rate between two CNTs as a function of their relative angle and also the effect of exciton confinement on the energy transfer rate. Our results show that the exciton confinement decreases the transfer rate between CNTs with similar chiralities. However, the transfer rate between CNTs with dissimilar chiralities increases as a result of exciton confinement.
Energy poverty and perceptions of solar power in marginalized communities: Survey evidence from Uttar Pradesh, India

The decreased cost of solar electricity generation has given a boost to rural energy markets, but most off-grid businesses remain small. A larger customer base is a precondition for business expansion and access to finance. This article reports findings from a large survey focused on energy access in unelectrified habitations in the Barabanki district of Uttar Pradesh, India. While most villagers are dissatisfied with their kerosene lighting and the median monthly expense for this fuel is 100 rupees (USD ∼ 1.66), the data analysis also indicates that there is little trust in local companies and a large number of villagers prefer government leadership in electricity supply. These findings suggest that solar entrepreneurs must do more to demonstrate the quality of their products and services to villagers to expand their customer base.
Modeling Reusable and Interoperable Faceted Browsing Systems with Category Theory

Faceted browsing has become ubiquitous with modern digital libraries and online search engines, yet the process is still difficult to abstractly model in a manner that supports the development of interoperable and reusable interfaces. We propose category theory as a theoretical foundation for faceted browsing and demonstrate how the interactive process can be mathematically abstracted. Existing efforts in facet modeling are based upon set theory, formal concept analysis, and light-weight ontologies, but in many regards, they are implementations of faceted browsing rather than a specification of the basic, underlying structures and interactions. We will demonstrate that category theory allows us to specify faceted objects and study the relationships and interactions within a faceted browsing system. Implementations can then be constructed through a category-theoretic lens using these models, allowing abstract comparison and communication that naturally support interoperability and reuse.
Structure of wheat gamma-gliadin genes

Abstract We have cloned and sequenced two linked members of the wheat ( Triticum aestivum ) gliadin multigene family. One gene encodes a γ-gliadin which is 292 amino acids (aa) long. S1 mapping indicates that this gene is transcriptionally active. The second gene, which is only marginally active by S1 mapping, is closely related to the first gene. Moreover, it is probably incapable of encoding a full-length γ-gliadin due to the presence of two premature in-frame stop codons. Neither gene contains introns. Nucleotide sequences of the two genes show the presence of characteristic repeats which have a derived aa consensus sequence Pro-Gln-Gln-Pro-Gln-Gln-Pro-Phe-Pro-Gln. A comparison of the promoter regions of these γ-gliadin genes with those of the α-gliadin genes shows the presence of a highly conserved region that could be involved in tissue specific and developmental regulation.
Identification of the RT-RH/IN cleavage site of HTLV-I

Human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is a type C human retrovirus and is the causative agent of adult T-cell leukemia and other diseases. The enzymatic and structural proteins of HTLV-I are synthesized as part of a Gag-Pro-Pol precursor polyprotein, and the mature proteins are released by proteolytic processing catalyzed by HTLV-I protease. The locations of most of the proteolytic cleavage sites are known, however, the site that creates the N-terminus of HTLV-1 integrase has not been previously identified. A 15 residue peptide corresponding to junction of the C-terminus of RNaseH and N-terminus of integrase (DALLITPVLQLSPAF-OH) was incubated with HTLV-1 protease. Analysis of the cleavage products by LC-MS revealed fragments Ac-DALLITPVLQL-OH and H(2)N-SPAF-OH were produced, indicating cleavage between the leucine and serine. This is the first physical identification of the N-terminal amino acid sequence of the integrase of HTLV-1.
Reliability of absolute versus log-transformed regression models for examining the torque-related patterns of response for mechanomyographic amplitude.

Abstract This study examined the test–retest reliability of the slopes ( b ) and y -intercepts ( a ) of the absolute and log-transformed regression models applied to the mechanomyographic amplitude (MMG RMS ) versus torque (TQ) relationship. Fifteen participants (mean ± SD age = 23 ± 4 yrs) performed two isometric maximal voluntary contractions (MVCs) and ten randomly ordered isometric leg extensions from 5% to 95% of their MVC during three separate trials. MMG RMS was recorded from the vastus lateralis during each MVC. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and standard errors of measurement (SEMs) were calculated for test–retest reliability. ICCs for the b and a terms were 0.89 and 0.90 for the log-transformed and 0.85 and 0.76 for the absolute relationships, respectively. The SEM values (expressed as a percentage of the mean) for the b and a terms were 9.7% and 16.4% for the log-transformed and 18.9% and 57.1% for the absolute relationships, respectively. These results indicated that the b and a terms from both the absolute linear and log-transformed MMG RMS versus TQ relationships were relatively reliable (ICCs), however, the SEMs for the log-transformed relationships were lower than the absolute linear models. Furthermore, the b term from the log-transformed relationships may provide unique information regarding the nonlinear characteristics (plateau points) of the MMG RMS versus TQ relationship, whereas the a term may indicate upward or downward shifts in MMG RMS across the TQ spectrum. Thus, the log-transformed MMG RMS versus TQ relationships may offer an attractive alternative method for reliably quantifying and tracking changes in the TQ-related patterns of response for MMG RMS on a subject-by-subject basis.
Establishing the benefit of statins in low-to-moderate--risk primary prevention: the Air Force/Texas Coronary Atherosclerosis Prevention Study (AFCAPS/TexCAPS).

AFCAPS/TexCAPS was the first prevention trial of a statin conducted in a low-to-moderate-risk cohort that included men (> or =45 years) and women (> or =55 years) with no evidence of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. At study entry, LDL-C had to be 130-190 mg/dL and HDL-C or =2 risk factors benefited more from statin than those with <2 risk factors. At baseline, HDL-C but not TC or LDL-C was determined a significant predictor of risk. On treatment, ApoB and ApoA1 were the best predictors. Based on AFCAPS/TexCAPS, a simple heuristic could be that individuals with "age plus one other risk factor" may benefit from statin therapy in primary prevention.
Understanding the Moderators of Physical and Emotional Pain: A Neural Systems-Based Approach

Zhou and Gao (this issue) put forth an interesting hypothesis, namely, that money, in addition to social support, can reduce the experience of physical pain. Their hypothesis is based on the premis...
Taurine Levels in Plasma and Blood Cells in Patients Undergoing Routine Maintenance Hemodialysis

We compared taurine levels in plasma, erythrocytes, platelets, lymphocytes, and granulocytes from 11 normal adults and 11 maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients immediately before and following a routine hemodialysis treatment. Taurine concentrations were elevated in plasma predialysis, as compared with normal subjects (90 ± 16 [SEM] v 54 ± 2 μmol/L [1.1 ± 0.2 v 0.7 ± 0.03, mg/dL]), but decreased with a dialysis treatment (to 34 ± 3 μmol/L [0.4 ± 0.04 mg/dL]). Erythrocyte taurine levels tended to be higher in MHD patients predialysis (1.2 ± 0.2 v 0.7 ± 0.1 nmol/10 9 cells, P P 9 cells, P v 27 ± 2 nmol/10 9 cells) and declined further during the dialysis procedure (to 14 ± 1). Granulocyte and lymphocyte taurine levels were not different in MHD patients, as compared with normal adults, either before or after dialysis. The observed differences in blood cell taurine content (expressed per 10 9 cells) could not be explained by variation in cell volumes among the groups examined. Thus, both chronic renal failure and a routine hemodialysis treatment produce changes in cell and plasma taurine levels that tend to be specific for the individual cell type.
Effects of Free and Combined Chlorine and Exposure Duration on Rainbow Trout, Channel Catfish, and Emerald Shiners

Abstract Laboratory bioassays to determine the acute toxicity of monochloramine, dichloramine, hypochlorous acid, and hypochlorite ion to emerald shiners Notropis atherinoides, channel catfish lctalurus punctatus, and rainbow trout Salmo gairdneri were conducted. Four exposure regimes typical of chlorination schedules at operating steam electric power plants were used. Fish were exposed for single 15-minute, 30-minute, 120-minute, and 4 × 30-minute periods. Based on median lethal concentrations (LC50s), the nominal solution of hypochlorous acid was the most toxic, followed closely by the solution dominated by dichloramine; nominal monochloramine and hypochlorite ion solutions had a third to a quarter the toxicity of the other two. On the average, emerald shiners were 1.8 times more sensitive than channel catfish and 3.3 times more sensitive than rainbow trout to the four forms of chlorine. The fish were most tolerant of chlorine during short-duration exposures and least tolerant during the continuous 120-...
Formulation of an Endoparasitic Nematode, Subanguina picridis Brzeski, a Biological Control Agent for Russian Knapweed, Acroptilon repens (L.)DC

Abstract Subanguina ( Paranguina ) picridis is the only plant pathogen, along with the fungus Puccinia acroptili, known to be effective as a biological control agent against Russian knapweed, Acroptilon repens (L.)DC. The nematode causes galls on stems and leaves of knapweed which considerably weaken and stunt the plants. A formulation technique for long-term storage of the nematode has been developed for nematodes extracted from galls and for those in galls. The nematodes were encapsulated in calcium alginate granules, coated with a unique inverting oil followed by an oil absorbent, and then dried. Survival of the nematodes in whole galls from infected Russian knapweed plants was assessed at two temperatures (4 and −20°C) after drying at room temperature, with or without a coating of inverting oil plus adsorbent. Less than 50% of the nematodes survived for 1 month when coated or uncoated whole galls were stored at 4 or −20°C, with viability declining rapidly thereafter. Nematodes extracted from galls and formulated in calcium alginate survived in dry granules for up to 9 months at −20°C with no significant loss of infectivity.
A test of the usefulness of surveys in identifying potential expert systems applications in tax planning

Abstract Before expert systems can be developed to assist in tax practice, hundreds of tasks must be analyzed to determine which are most appropriate for system development. The purpose of this research are to gain an understanding of the tax planning applications domain and to test the validity of using a questionnaire in task selection. The most critical subset of the planning tasks was analyzed concerning characteristics that would indicate expertise. A questionnaire was used to obtain feedback from firm tax partners about the appropriateness of the subset of planning tasks for expert system development. The data gave a preliminary indication that corporate alternative minimum tax planning was the most viable task. A panel of tax expert systems specialists concurred. Further study of the questionnaire use was recommended.
Effects of Hyperbaric Oxygenation on Coronary Artery Occlusion in Pigs

To evaluate more precisely the possible protective effect of hyperbaric oxygenation in experimental myocardial infarction, gradual occlusion of a coronary artery was produced in the pig. Ameroid constrictors designed to produce complete occlusion within 48 hours were placed on the left anterior descending coronary artery of 24 young farm pigs. Of these, 12 were placed in a hyperbaric chamber at 1.25 atmospheres absolute and allowed to breathe 100% oxygen for a maximum of 32 hours. For control studies 12 other pigs were handled in a similar manner outside the chamber while breathing air at normal atmospheric pressure. Pigs treated with hyperbaric oxygenation outlived the untreated pigs. Pathological and histochemical studies of the hearts revealed that pigs treated with hyperbaric oxygenation had a high incidence of myocardial infarction, whereas only two pigs in the untreated group showed any evidence of myocardial damage. These findings suggest that moderate but prolonged hyperbaric oxygenation may lengthen life during and after coronary occlusion. This prolongation of life may permit the development of pathologically detectable myocardial infarctions.
Sulfur isotope and porewater geochemistry of Florida escarpment seep sediments

Abstract Distributions of porewater constituents, SO 4 = , NH 4 + , Cl − , ∑CO 2 , and H 2 S, solid phase iron, and sulfur concentrations, and the sulfur isotopic composition of dissolved and solid phases were investigated in sediments from abyssal seeps at the base of the Florida escarpment. Despite the apparent similarity of seep sediment porewater chemistry to that of typical marine sediments undergoing early diagenesis, relationships between chemical distributions and isotopic measurements revealed that the distribution of pore fluid constituents was dominated by processes occurring within the platform rather than by in situ microbial processes. Ammonium and sulfate concentrations were linearly correlated with chloride concentrations, indicating that variations in porewater chemistry were controlled by the admixture of seawater and a sulfate depleted brine with a chlorinity of 27.5 ± 1.9%. and 2.2 ± 1.3 mM ammonium concentration. At sites dominated by seepage, dissolved sulfate isotopic composition remained near seawater values despite depletion in porewater concentrations. Porewater ∑CO 2 concentrations were found to be elevated relative to seawater, but not to the extent predicted from the observed sulfate depletion. Sediment solid phase sulfur was predominantly pyrite, at concentrations as high as 20% S by weight. In contrast to typical marine deposits, pyrite concentrations were not related to the quantity of sedimentary organic matter. Pyrite δ 34 S values ranged from −29%. to + 21%. (CDT). However, only positive δ 34 S values were observed at sites associated with high pyrite concentrations. Isotopically heavy pyrite was observed at sites with porewater sulfate of seawater-like isotopic composition. Isotopically light pyrite was associated with sites where porewater sulfate exhibited δ 34 S values greater than those in seawater, indicating the activity of in situ microbial sulfate reduction. Thus, dual sulfide sources are suggested to explain the range in sediment pyrite isotopic composition: a δ 34 S enriched (+10 to +20%.) source adverted from within the Florida platform, and a lighter 34 S depleted component generated in situ from microbial reduction of seawater sulfate. The degree of pyritization of seep sediments was as high as 0.9 and was controlled by pyrite concentrations, which varied over a wider range than did the non-pyrite solid phase iron concentrations. The highest non-sulfide solid phase iron concentrations were observed in sediments that are believed to be at the “front” of the advancing seep fluids (i.e., hemipelagic sediments newly exposed to the seep fluids), indicating that dissolution of hemipelagic background sediment may be the source of at least half of the iron to the highly pyritized seep sediments. Porewater sulfide concentrations were variable, reaching a maximum of 5.7 mM, and were not correlated with the degree of pyritization of the sediments, suggesting that iron was not particularly limiting to pyrite formation.
Risk and Vulnerability Assessment Using Cybernomic Computational Models: Tailored for Industrial Control Systems

In cybersecurity, there are many influencing economic factors to weigh. This paper considers the defender-practitioner stakeholder points-of-view that involve cost combined with development and deployment considerations. Some examples include the cost of countermeasures, training and maintenance as well as the lost opportunity cost and actual damages associated with a compromise. The return on investment (ROI) from countermeasures comes from saved impact costs (i.e., losses from violating availability, integrity, confidentiality or privacy requirements). A measured approach that informs cybersecurity practice is pursued toward maximizing ROI. To this end for example, ranking threats based on their potential impact focuses security mitigation and control investments on the highest value assets, which represent the greatest potential losses. The traditional approach uses risk exposure (calculated by multiplying risk probability by impact). To address this issue in terms of security economics, we introduce the notion of Cybernomics. Cybernomics considers the cost/benefits to the attacker/defender to estimate risk exposure. As the first step, we discuss the likelihood that a threat will emerge and whether it can be thwarted and if not what will be the cost (losses both tangible and intangible). This impact assessment can provide key information for ranking cybersecurity threats and managing risk.
Determinants of Student Evaluations of Global Measures of Instructor and Course Value

Using structural equation modeling (LISREL) with a sample of business students, this study addresses important issues with respect to student evaluations. After reviewing past research and using exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis suggests the existence of five latent variables in student evaluations: organization, workload/difficulty, expected/fairness of grading, instructor liking/concern, and perceived learning. Next, adding structural paths, these variables are used to model the formation of student evaluations. The models developed demonstrate that student evaluations may lack discriminant validity, the extent to which a measure does not correlate with other constructs it is not supposed to measure (e.g., expected/fairness of grading does have a large impact on ratings of teaching ability). Moreover, the use of student evaluations is compounded by the common usage of global measures in student evaluation practice. Here, the use of overall course value and instructor rating are c...
Changes in Educational Attitudes of Education and Science Arts and Students during Four Years of College

The authors found that Education majors become more progressive in their attitudes toward educational practices after experiencing professional courses and clinical and field experi ences, particularly when those experiences are organized and directed by Education faculty members who hold progressive views. The results contradict often-found conclusions from less rigorously designed studies and suggest that the contradictory findings of different research paradigms may be reflecting the different factors that make up the various attitude constructs.
Magnesium and the mineral metabolism of chick embryo tibiae in organ culture

Using bone organ culture techniques, three concentrations of magnesium were evaluated for their effects on the mineral mass of embryonic chick tibiae incubated for 3 days with or without a metabolic inhibitor (1 mM iodoacetic acid) added to the media. Varying the medium Mg level from 0.3 to 3.0 mM had little effect on the net increase in mineral in live bones (without the inhibitor), but in dead tibiae (with the inhibitor) there was a marked net decrease in mineral deposition with increasing Mg concentration. Bone Mg mass varied directly with the level of Mg in the medium regardless of whether or not the tibiae were inhibited. Responsiveness to parathyroid hormone (PTH) with regard to mineral loss and increased lactate production was not affected by Mg even in tibiae incubated in Mg-free media. However, PTH-treated bones cultured in Mg-free media had a significantly elevated Mg mass, suggesting that the hormone may have a Mg-conserving effect on bone during severe Mg deficiency. The findings of this study support the hypothesis that bone cells regulate the level of Mg to which newly forming mineral is exposed and that PTH-responsiveness in embryonic chick tibiae is not dependent on the ambient Mg concentration.
Release of remnant plasma membrane from milk fat globules by Triton X-100.

Abstract The nonionic detergent, Triton X-100, was investigated as an agent for releasing plasma membrane from milk fat globules. The sedimentable material ( 50 000 × g , 1 h) derived by treating washed goat globules with the detergent (0.2%) was compared to membrane made by the classical globule churning procedure. Characterization included lipid and protein analyses, gel electrophoresis of peptide components, determination of enzymatic activities, and examination with the electron microscope. The results established that the detergent-released material is membrane with similarities to the product by churning. Evaluation of variables revealed that a detergent concentration of 0.1 to 0.2% and reaction temperature of 20–22°C appear optimum with respect to membrane yield when a reaction time of 2 min is employed. At higher detergent concentrations or temperatures removal of phospholipid from the membrane was maximized. Triton X-100 was observed to release membrane from milk fat globules of the goat, human and cow, the latter with a minor procedural modification. The detergent based method is a convenient procedure for obtaining plasma membrane material in good yield for biochemical studies. It also should aid investigations of milk fat globule structure.
Frenkel and charge transfer states of conjugated polymers and molecules

Neutral excitations of conjugated polymers resemble molecular π-π∗ spectra or Frenkel excitons in organic molecular crystals, while charge transfer (CT) between strands is related to ion pairs. The relative energies of Frenkel and CT states depend on Coulomb, polarization, and dispersion forces, as well as molecular and lattice relaxation. Polar substituents and redistribution of delocalized charge are molecular contributions that stabilize CT states. Their roles are illustrated by low-energy CT in PTCDA films and by stilbene dimers. Covalent bonding along the polymer backbone requires generalization of molecular exciton theory and generates extended states with different excitation thresholds indicative of Coulomb interactions. Expanded atomic sites are introduced through a second π-electron approximation for D2h networks whose low-lying state are in an odd manifold. Expanded sites allow systematic comparisons of perylene and pyrene spectra with those of polyenes, indicate an even-parity exciton to be the lowest singlet of polyperinaphthalene, and represent a step towards molecular sites used in ion-radical salts with narrow bands. The energetics of Frenkel and CT states in organic molecular solids are closely related to excitons and polaron pairs in conjugated polymers, whose appropriate frontier orbitals and correlated excitations are currently sought.
The courtship behaviour of the Apalachicola dusky salamander, Desmognathus apalachicolae Means & Karlin (Amphibia Caudata Plethodontidae)

This paper provides the first description of the courtship behaviour of the plethodontid salamander Desmognathus apalachicolae. After a brief phase of orientation of the male to the female, most courtship interactions consist of the male stimulating his partner (in effect, “persuading” her to mate). Tactile stimuli are produced by the behaviour patterns “head-rubbing” and “stroking”. Chemical stimuli are provided by secretions from the male's mental (= chin) gland, which are transferred to the female by the behaviour patterns “snapping” and “pulling”. Courtship ends with indirect sperm transfer by means of a spermatophore deposited on the substrate. This phase is marked by a behaviour pattern known as “tail-straddle walk”, exhibited only by plethodontid salamanders. A complete understanding of the evolution of courtship behaviour in desmognathine salamanders awaits availability of detailed ethograms for all taxa currently recognized. However, it appears that patterns of sexual incompatibility observed amo...
Adrenalectomy alters acid-soluble leucine pool in rat kidney and heart

Abstract 1. 1. After a continuous infusion of [ 3 H]leucine into conscious rats the 3 H count in the acid soluble extract was significantly higher in kidney, heart and liver of adrenalectomized rats than in the controls. However, the 3 H counts remaining as [ 3 H]leucine were similarly low in all three tissues from both groups of animals. 2. 2. Application of the 14 C-dansylation method revealed that the specific activity (dpm/nmol) of leucine in the tissue extracts of adrenalectomized rats decreased by 30% in kidney and liver and by 12% in heart. due to corresponding increases in the free leucine pools. 3. 3. Adrenalectomy also increased the isoleucine and valine content in kidney and liver and lysine and proline in the liver, but decreased the glycine content in kidney. 4. 4. Aldosterone treatment of rats had no effect on any of the changes caused by adrenalectomy.
The synaptic physiology of cochlear hair cells.

Mechanosensory hair cells of the vertebrate inner ear are so-called ‘short’ receptors that communicate to the central nervous system by way of chemical synapses with afferent neurons. In turn, hair ce
Host plant control of the inheritance of dinitrogen fixation in the Pisum-Rhizobium symbiosis

The contribution of the host plant genome in symbiotic dinitrogen fixation has received little attention. In examining more than two thousand samples from the USDA Plant Introduction Collection, host-determined genetic variation in dinitrogen fixation has been found. In genetic analysis of a mutant line of Pisum resistant to nodulation, two genes designated Sym 2 and Sym 3 have been detected; Sym 2 affects nodulation while Sym 3 influences fixation. The two genes segregate independently as dominant Mendelian characters. Effective symbiosis requires the presence of at least one dominant gene at each locus.
Links between Parenting Styles, Parent-Child Academic Interaction, Parent-School Interaction, and Early Academic Skills and Social Behaviors in Young Children of English-Speaking Caribbean Immigrants.

Abstract This study examined the influence of parenting styles, parent–child academic involvement at home, and parent–school contact on academic skills and social behaviors among kindergarten-age children of Caribbean immigrants. Seventy immigrant mothers and fathers participated in the study. Hierarchical regression analyses revealed that fathers’ authoritarian parenting style was negatively associated with and father–school contact was positively associated with receptive skills, vocabulary, and composite scores over and above that of mothers’ contributions in these areas. Fathers’ authoritative parenting style and father–child academic interaction at home were positively related to children's social behaviors. Mothers’ authoritarian parenting style was negatively and mother–school contact was positively associated with children's social behaviors. Analyses indicated that fathers’ parenting carried the weight of influence over mothers’ parenting for facilitating both child academic skills and social behaviors. The roles of parenting styles, parent–academic activities, and parent–school contacts in early schooling are discussed.
Evaluation of high-early strength PCC mixtures used in full depth repairs

Abstract The research described herein was conducted as a part of NCHRP Project 18-04B, Early Opening-to-Traffic Portland Cement Concrete for Pavement Rehabilitation [Van Dam TJ. Durability of ‘Early-Opening-to-Traffic’ portland cement concrete for pavement rehabilitation. Final Report, NCHRP Web Document 76, Transportation Research Board, National Research Council, Washington, DC; 2005.]. In the study fourteen different high-early strength portland cement concrete (PCC) full-depth repair mixtures (two replicates or batches were prepared for each mixture for a total of 28 batches) were designed for a 6–8 h opening to traffic window. The fresh and hardened concrete properties, freeze-thaw durability and microstructural properties of the concrete were assessed as part of the laboratory testing program. As a result of this assessment it was determined that high-early strength PCC mixtures of adequate strength could be produced, but that interactions between the various constituents could result in durability problems in some mixtures, particularly those made with Type III cement and high-range water reducers. It is recommended that durability-related testing be conducted on such mixtures to ensure longevity of the repair.
The value of DNA analysis for antigens of the Kell and Kx blood group systems.

K ell is a major human blood group system that is highly polymorphic, and at present it is known to express 28 different alloantigens. After the ABO and Rh systems, Kell is the most important blood group system in transfusion medicine, as some of the antigens are potent immunogens and their antibodies can cause severe transfusion reactions in mismatched blood transfusions and fetal anemia in feto-maternal incompatible pregnancies. The Kx blood group system is composed of a single antigen, Kx, which is carried on the XK protein. This system is important clinically because absence of XK protein, found in rare McLeod phenotypes, leads to red blood cell (RBC) acanthocytosis and to late onset abnormalities, usually commencing about midlife, involving the peripheral and central nervous systems, known as the McLeod syndrome.
Optimization of a thermoelectric heat pump through cascading

A study is presented for the optimization of the coefficient of performance of a thermoelectric heat pump through the use of cascaded stages. Throughout the investigation it is assumed that the electrical and thermal conductivities of the n- and p-type elements are the same and are constant. It is further assumed that there are no electrical or thermal contact resistances and that the element is completely insulated except at the hot and cold junctions. It is shown that small variations about the optimal interstage temperatures have a negligible effect on the C.O.P. of the cascade. In addition it is shown that in many cases only limited gains are made in the C.O.P. through cascaded thermoelectric heat pumps.
Regulatory functions of the λ repressor reside in the amino-terminal domain

The repressor of bacteriophage lambda is a protein containing two domains of approximately equal size. Fragments containing the amino-terminal domain of repressor bind specifically to lambda operator DNA and mediate positive and negative control of lambda transcription both in vitro and in vivo.
Evaluation of the higher-order theory for functionally graded materials via the finite-element method

A comparison is presented between the predictions of the finite-element analysis and a recently developed higher-order theory for functionally graded materials subjected to a through-thickness temperature gradient. In contrast to existing micromechanical theories that utilize classical (i.e. uncoupled) homogenization schemes to calculate micro-level and macro-level stress and displacement fields in materials with uniform or nonuniform fibre spacing (i.e. functionally graded materials), the new theory explicitly couples the microstructural details with the macrostructure of the composite. Previous thermo-elastic analysis has demonstrated that such coupling is necessary when: the temperature gradient is large with respect to the dimension of the reinforcement; the characteristic dimension of the reinforcement is large relative to the global dimensions of the composite and the number of reinforcing fibers or inclusions is small. In these circumstances, the standard micromechanical analyses based on the concept of the representative volume element used to determine average or effective properties of macroscopically homogeneous composites produce questionable results. The comparison between the results of the finite-element method and the higher-order theory presented herein establishes the theory's accuracy in predicting thermal and stress fields within composites with a finite number of fibers in the thickness direction subjected to a through-thickness thermal gradient.
Mechanical devices for cardiopulmonary resuscitation: an update

Despite the promise and universal use of the Kouwenhoven technique for closed chest cardiac massage, this method has been shown repeatedly to suffer from lack of clinical efficacy. Although the Kouwenhoven technique can clearly save lives, the inherent inefficiency of this approach and the challenges related to teaching and retaining the skills needed to perform the technique correctly have limited its overall effectiveness. This has prompted the development of newer lifesaving CPR techniques and devices. Some of the advances, such as the vest approach, active compression-decompression, and the impedance threshold valve, offer a benefit when compared with the Kouwenhoven technique. It is clear, however, that challenges related to implementation of these newer approaches will determine their ultimate utility. It is not sufficient to have a better technique or device available. Challenges to implementation of the newer approaches include overcoming the inertia of a universal mindset on the already-familiar Kouwenhoven technique and creating a cost-effective justification for change. Each year, approximately 10 million people in the United States are trained in the Kouwenhoven technique. Americans spend nearly $500,000,000 annually on this form of CPR training and retraining. Given the less than 5% survival rate for the 300,000 patients who experience out-of-hospital cardiac arrest each year in the United States, the prudence of this societal investment when compared with other ways health care dollars are spent should be questioned. It is hoped that this mismatch between costs and benefits will be recognized and will lead to the adoption of more effective means to resuscitate patients.
Suzanne Lacy: spaces between

For Lacy, communities are contested sites, and performance art is a function of community development. (p. 151)Communities can take advantage of the fact that artwork and artistic events are great ...