cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Using a Web-Based Questionnaire as an Aide for High School Economics Instruction

The authors describe a new, Web-based survey instrument that may serve as an aide for teachers and as an interactive exercise for high school economics students. The questionnaire asks students about their involvement with the economy, inquiring about employment, consumption, and living standards, and includes a few hypothetical consumer-demand questions. Teachers can request an automated report on the basis of their classes' responses, containing comparisons with a national sample. The motivation for the survey is twofold. First, in addition to enhancing their understanding of their students' backgrounds and familiarity with the U.S. economy, teachers will receive suggestions on ways to use the survey responses to illustrate economic concepts. Second, with lesson plans grounded in students' own experiences, the authors hope that students will be more actively engaged in learning.
Effect of sex on outcome after recurrent stroke in African Americans: results from the African American Antiplatelet Stroke Prevention Study.

Background Sex-related disparities in stroke have been previously reported. However, the influence of sex on the outcome of recurrent stroke in African Americans is less clear. Our objective was to investigate the effect of sex on the outcome of recurrent nonfatal stroke in the African American Antiplatelet Stroke Prevention Study (AAASPS). Methods The AAASPS is a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial of recurrent stroke prevention in African Americans. Participants (967 women and 842 men) with noncardioembolic ischemic stroke were assigned to receive ticlopidine or aspirin and were followed up for up to 2 years. The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score, modified Barthel score (mBS), and Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) score were determined at enrollment, at prespecified times thereafter, and at the time of recurrent stroke. Survival analysis was used to test for a significant difference in the time to recurrent stroke between women and men. Results Of the total 1809 subjects enrolled in AAASPS, 186 (89 women and 97 men) experienced recurrent nonfatal stroke. At enrollment, the NIHSS score (2.87 for women and 3.00 for men; P =.73), the mBS (18.26 for women and 18.52 for men; P =.47) and the GOS score (1.49 for women and 1.51 for men; P =.86) were not significantly different. In follow-up and at the time of stroke recurrence, the NIHSS score, mBS, and GOS score were similar for both groups, except for the mBS at the 6-month visit, which was lower in women (18.49) than in men (19.37) ( P =.02). In the survival analysis, no significant difference in the time to recurrent stroke was found between women and men ( P =.69). Conclusions Although sex-related stroke disparities have been reported, in the AAASPS cohort outcomes for recurrent nonfatal noncardioembolic ischemic stroke for women were not significantly different than for men. Differences in study populations and methodologies may explain discrepancies in results from the various studies.
Interstellar Dust Grain Alignment

Interstellar polarization at optical-to-infrared wavelengths is known to arise from asymmetric dust grains aligned with the magnetic field. This effect provides a potentially powerful probe of magnetic field structure and strength if the details of the grain alignment can be reliably understood. Theory and observations have recently converged on a quantitative, predictive description of interstellar grain alignment based on radiative processes. The development of a general, analytical model for this radiative alignment torque (RAT) theory has allowed specific, testable predictions for realistic interstellar conditions. We outline the theoretical and observational arguments in favor of RAT alignment, as well as reasons the “classical” paramagnetic alignment mechanism is unlikely to work, except possibly for the very smallest grains. With further detailed characterization of the RAT mechanism, grain alignment and polarimetry promise to not only better constrain the interstellar magnetic field but also provi...
Sugar nucleotide quantification using multiple reaction monitoring liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry.

Rationale Glycosylation of proteins and lipids is reliant on the availability of monosaccharide-activated donors known as sugar nucleotides. They are responsible for glycosylation in cells. Reliable quantification of these sugar nucleotides might provide an insight into their biological roles and attributes. Methods Herein, a method is described for the quantification of sugar nucleotides using ultra high pressure liquid chromatography (UHPLC) tandem mass spectrometry, allowing selective detection of sugar nucleotides in a biological sample. Seven model sugar nucleotide standards commonly associated with lipid and protein glycosylation were separated on a porous graphitic carbon column using an UHPLC system coupled to a triple stage quadrupole mass spectrometer utilizing a multiple reaction monitoring approach. Results Successful baseline separation of these metabolites was attained in 6 min using an ammonium formate buffer and acetonitrile, circumventing the use of MS-unfriendly pairing reagents. The linear dynamic range of this procedure was established over almost three orders of magnitude from 20 pg to 1 ng (40 pg to 2 ng for the isomers UDP-GlcNAc/GalNAc). The limit of detection ranged from 15 pg to 30 pg while the limit of quantification ranged from 50 pg to 100 pg. Furthermore, viability of this method was tested using three different breast cancer cell lines (MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-231-BR, and MDA-MB-361) with the successful identification and quantification of all seven targeted sugar nucleotides. Conclusions The described method permitted the quantitative analysis of sugar nucleotides in 10 min, thus allowing the practical use of this approach in high-throughput settings. The method was also very effective for the quantification of sugar nucleotides derived from three different breast cancer cell lines. The distribution of sugar nucleotides was different among the different cell lines and unique for each cell line.
108 A New M-Mode Parameter To Assess Ventricular Unloading in the LVAD Patient: Slope of the Anterior Mitral Leaflet (SLAM)

terquartile range $185,045-$288,411) (p 0.00001, p 0.0001, respectively). Conclusions: CF-LVAD implant prior to need for inotropes is associated with shorter length of stay and lower direct cost. Evolution of implant criteria and timing is likely to have has a major impact on determining cost effectiveness of CF-LVAD. The conduct of a clinical trial evaluating the LVAD therapy in an earlier stage heart failure patient population may have a significant and favorable impact on the cost of health care delivery.
Methods of Design-Oriented Analysis: The Quadratic Equation Revisited

The conventional formula for quadratic roots suffers from two defects: it is High Entropy, and it is computationally inaccurate when two real roots are widely separated. An improved formula is suggested that overcomes both defects. Both roots are expressed in terms of a single parameter F that contains the radical sign and is a unique function of the single parameter Q that determines the nature of the roots. Both roots are computed in terms of F with the same computational accuracy, and the Low Entropy format exposes the useful design-oriented result that, for well-separated real roots, F approaches unity so that the radical disappears and both roots reduce to simple ratios of the original quadratic coefficients.
Corpus Luteum Development and Function in Cattle with Episodic Release of Luteinizing Hormone Pulses Inhibited in the Follicular and Early Luteal Phases of the Estrous Cycle

The influence of episodic LH pulses before and subsequent to ovulation on size and function of the corpus luteum (CL) in cattle was examined. Treatments were 1) control; 2) LHRH antagonist starting 2 days before the preovulatory LH surge (Antagonist [Ant] -2); 3) LHRH antagonist at initiation of the preovulatory LH surge (Ant 0); and 4) LHRH antagonist starting 2 days after the preovulatory LH surge (Ant 2). Treatments with an LHRH antagonist were continued until 7 days after the preovulatory surge. Diameter of the CL and concentrations of progesterone were monitored during the luteal phase that ensued after treatment. Maximum average diameters of CL were 9.5, 17.5, 21.6, and 28.8 mm for females from the Ant -2, Ant 0, Ant 2, and control groups, respectively (P 0.1) among antagonist-treated groups. In conclusion, episodic release of LH pulses before, during, and after the time of the preovulatory surge of LH may stimulate development and function of the CL in cattle.
Accelerating an IR automatic target recognition application with FPGAs

An infrared automatic target recognition (IR ATR) application is accelerated with an FPGA co-processor board. The board features and the application are first stated. The FPGA design is then described. The achieved performance is reported and analyzed at the end.
Approaches to global stabilization of a nonlinear system not affine in control

This paper presents three controllers that globally stabilize a benchmark nonlinear system. Neither affine in control nor of triangular structure, the system is not in a class to which existing constructive methodologies are applicable.
American Indian treaties : the history of a political anomaly

American Indian affairs are much in the public mind today. The unique legal status of American Indians rests largely on the historical treaty relations between Indian tribes and the federal government. This history details these treaties and their role in American life.
Indiplon: A Nonbenzodiazepine Sedative–Hypnotic for the Treatment of Insomnia

Objective:To review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, efficacy data, and adverse effects of indiplon in the treatment of transient and chronic insomnia in adult and geriatric patients.Data Sources:A literature search was conducted using MEDLINE (1966–May 2006), International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (1970–May 2008), and Cochrane database (2007) (or the key words indiplon or NBI-34060. References cited in the articles were reviewed for additional Information. Abstract data were included only in the absence of significant published data.Study Selection and Data Extraction:English-language literature reporting animal and human clinical studies was reviewed to evaluate data on the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, efficacy, and adverse effects of indiplon. Clinical trials selected for inclusion were limited to those with human subjects, with the accepted Inclusion of pharmacology data in animals.Data Synthesis:Indiplon Is a nonbenzodiazepine sedative-hypnotic that exhibits ...
Pain Management in Four‐Limb Amputation: A Case Report

Acute pain following amputation can be challenging to treat due to multiple underlying mechanisms and variable clinical responses to treatment. Furthermore, poorly controlled preoperative pain is a risk factor for developing chronic pain. Evidence suggests that epidural analgesia and peripheral nerve blockade may decrease the severity of residual limb pain and the prevalence of phantom pain after lower extremity amputation. We present the perioperative analgesic management of a patient with gangrene of the bilateral upper and lower extremities as a result of septic shock and prolonged vasopressor administration who underwent four-limb amputation in a single procedure. A multimodal analgesic regimen was utilized, including titration of preoperative opioid and neuropathic pain agents, perioperative intravenous, epidural and peripheral nerve catheter infusions, and postoperative oral medication titration. More than 8 months postoperatively, the patient has satisfactory pain control with no evidence for phantom limb pain. To our knowledge, there have been no publications to date concerning analgesic regimens in four-limb amputation.
Soil Moisture and Temperature: Tolerances and Optima for a Non-Native Earthworm Species, Amynthas agrestis (Oligochaeta: Opisthopora: Megascolecidae)

Abstract Field observations indicate an invasion by the non-native, Asian earthworm species Amynthas agrestis (Goto and Hatai 1899) in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP). The aim of this study was to determine if A. agrestis was capable of surviving in the ridge-top soil along an invasion front in a mesic—xeric habitat gradient in GSMNP. Additionally, this study sought to determine optimum and tolerance conditions for A. agrestis within a range of soil moistures and temperatures. Investigating soil temperature and moisture as parameters of earthworm survivability will allow for more predictive power when investigating the GSNMP invasion. Although A. agrestis invasions are widespread in eastern North America, few studies have addressed factors that may influence their distribution and their potential impacts on ecosystem processes. Using incubators and PVC tube microcosms, it was determined that A. agrestis was able to survive in the GSMNP ridge-top soil at temperatures of 12 °C and 25 °C. No ...
Willingness of Certified Health Education Specialists to Conduct Rapid HIV Testing Results From the Promoting Research on Methods in Screening Expertise Study

Background. Approximately 16% of people living with HIV are not aware of their infection. Health education specialists, with their training in health program design, implementation, evaluation, and work with vulnerable communities, may have the necessary expertise to conduct rapid HIV testing (RHT). Method. A national, cross-sectional, online survey of Certified Health Education Specialists (CHES) and Master CHES (MCHES) was conducted from April to October 2013, with participants recruited through the National Commission on Health Education Credentialing. We surveyed CHES/MCHES on HIV knowledge and attitudes as well as willingness to conduct RHT. Results. A total of 1,421 CHES/MCHES completed the survey, with a median age of 32 years and median level of 7 years of experience. The majority were White (70.3%), female (91.7%), and heterosexual (93.1%). The majority of respondents had high knowledge of HIV (69.7%), thought that CHES/MCHES should offer RHT (75.2%), and was willing to get trained/certified to c...
Echocardiographic predictors of mitral regurgitation in high school and collegiate competitive athletes.

Previous studies have compared cardiac morphology between strength and endurance athletes, but few studies have examined predictors of valvular regurgitation in this population. This study evaluated predictors of mitral regurgitation (MR) in high school and collegiate athletes. Athletes in 9 different sports (n = 144) underwent transthoracic echocardiography. We used 97 sedentary patients as controls. Left ventricular (LV) end-diastolic diameter, septal wall thickness, posterior wall thickness, relative wall thickness (RWT), LV mass, LV volume, and mass/volume ratio were calculated and indexed for body surface area. Valvular regurgitation was graded from 0 to 4. Using logistic regression, RWT was associated with decreased odds of MR, with each 0.07 increase in RWT accounting for a 0.52 decrease in odds of MR (95% confidence interval 0.32 to 0.85, p = 0.009). Differences were best exemplified by comparison of soccer and football players, who represent predominantly aerobic versus predominantly isometric exercise, respectively. Soccer players had a larger LV end-diastolic index (29.2 ± 3 vs 24.9 ± 2.6, p
Mechanical Properties of Laser Processed Diamond-Like Carbon Films

Diamond-like carbon (DLC) films have a unique combination of physical and chemical properties such as high hardness, optical transparency, low coefficient of friction and chemical inertness. A pulsed laser (248 nm) has been used to ablate a pyrolytic graphite target to deposit DLC films on Si (100) and 7059 Corning glass substrates. The deposition was carried out in high vacuum ({le} 10{sup {minus}6} Torr) at different temperatures ranging from room temperature to 400 C. The films were characterized by x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, and Raman spectroscopic techniques. The mechanical properties (hardness and Young`s modulus) of these films were characterized by nanoindentation. The authors have found that the films deposited at room temperature and 100 C show the characteristic features of DLC films and have the better hardness and modulus properties compared to the films fabricated at higher temperatures, which transform into amorphous carbon. Correlations of pulsed laser deposition process parameters with the properties of deposited DLC films will be discussed in this paper.
Induction of Hsp22 (HspB8) by estrogen and the metalloestrogen cadmium in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer cells.

Estrogen (E2) plays a critical role in the etiology and progression of human breast cancer. The estrogenic response is complex and not completely understood, including in terms of the involved responsive genes. Here we show that Hsp22 (synonyms: HspB8, E2IG1, H11), a member of the small heat shock protein (sHSP) superfamily, was induced by E2 in estrogen receptor–positive MCF-7 breast cancer cells, resulting in an elevated Hsp22 protein level, whereas it was not induced in estrogen receptor–negative MDA-MB-231 cells. This induction was prevented by the pure anti-estrogen ICI182780 (faslodex, fulvestrant), whereas tamoxifen, a substance with mixed estrogenic and anti-estrogenic properties, had no major inhibitory effect on this induction, nor did it induce Hsp22 on its own. Cadmium (Cd) is an environmental pollutant with estrogenic properties (metalloestrogen) that has been implicated in breast cancer. Treatment of MCF-7 cells with Cd also resulted in induction of Hsp22, and this induction was also inhibited by ICI182780. In live MCF-7 cells, Hsp22 interacted at the level of dimers with Hsp27, a related sHSP, as was shown by quantitative fluorescence resonance energy transfer measurements. In cytosolic extracts of MCF-7 cells, most of the E2- and Cd-induced Hsp22 was incorporated into high–molecular mass complexes. In part, Hsp22 and Hsp27 were components of distinct populations of these complexes. Finally, candidate elements in the Hsp22 promoter were identified by sequence analysis that could account for the induction of Hsp22 by E2 and Cd. Taken together, Hsp22 induction represents a new aspect of the estrogenic response with potential significance for the biology of estrogen receptor– positive breast cancer cells.
Algorithm for automatic glottal waveform estimation without the reliance on precise glottal closure information

An automated glottal waveform estimation algorithm is presented that improves on a previous manual glottal extraction technique which produced excellent glottal waveform estimates. The algorithm uses only basic approximations of glottal closure regions and successive iterations to find the best candidate for a glottal waveform estimate within a speech frame. Visual comparisons of the glottal waveform estimates created by the algorithm and those generated from the use of glottal closure information provided by an electroglottograph (EGG) reveal that the algorithm produced virtually identical estimates.
Host Responses to Respiratory Virus Infection and Immunization

The major viral causes of lower respiratory tract (LRT) disease in humans are respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), parainfluenza viruses (PIV), and the influenza viruses. Despite significant advances in our understanding of the basic virology and molecular biology of these viruses, relatively little is known about the life cycle and spread of these respiratory viruses in vivo. Infection is transmitted primarily by fomites or large-particle aerosols; therefore the initiation site of natural infection is presumed to be the nasopharynx (NP). It is probable that these viruses predominately infect respiratory epithelial cells.
Strategies for the Search for Life in the Universe Highlights of the Proceedings

This introduction is intended to provide an overview of the Volume of the Proceedings of the Joint Session on “Strategies for the Search for Life in the Universe” that was held on August 15 and 16, 1979 in Montreal during the 17th General Assembly of the International Astronomical Union. The Joint Session was co-sponsored by three I.A.U. Commissions, #16 (Physical Study of Planets and Satellites), #40 (Radio Astronomy), and #44 (Astronomy from Space). The Volume is divided into four parts, as was also the Joint Session, that deal with four specific topics of the general subject. This introduction includes brief reviews of all the contributed papers, some comments from the discussions in Montreal, a few personal observations, and a short summary of the Soviet radio SETI program as I was able to put it together from various sources.
Section 6. Low Temperature Hydrothermal Deposits

Among the commonest, cooler hydrothermal ores is the Mississippi Valley Type, the source of about 25% of the world’s commercial zinc and lead ([Leach et al. , 2010][1]). These deposits are amenable to experimental and theoretical investigations, especially using thermodynamics, because they
Arthritis, Depression, and Falls Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults: Evidence From the Health and Retirement Study:

The aims of this study were to examine the association between different types of arthritis and falls and to investigate whether clinically significant depression symptoms (CSDS) moderate these relationships. The study used nationally representative data from the 2008 Health and Retirement Study (n = 7,715, M age = 75, 62% female, and 90% White). Among the respondents, 42% experienced at least one fall during the previous 2 years. About one third had some form of arthritis: 22% osteoarthritis (OA), 4.8% rheumatoid arthritis (RA), 2.3% both OA and RA, and 7.9% with other arthritis types. About one fifth of respondents had CSDS. OA and CSDS are associated with the odds of falling (17% and 29%, respectively), adjusting for socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyle, health conditions, and psychiatric medications. There was no statistically significant interaction between types of arthritis and CSDS. Health care providers should pay attention to managing arthritis, especially OA, and CSDS to prevent falls among older adults.© The Author(s) 2016. Language: en
Investigation of perioperative antibacterial drug use in general surgery in our hospital

Objective To study use of antibiotics trends of our hospital in two years,to provide a basis for the rational of antibiotics.Methods Sampling survey of March 2010 to March 2011 perioperative antibacterial drug usage,and comparatively analyszed the statistics.Results The average time of 2011 was significantly reduced than 2010 whether Ⅰ,Ⅱ,Ⅲ classes cut,the hospital comparison time had no differences.From 2010 to 2011,the ratio of 2 combined gradually increased,the proportion of 3 combined decreased significantly,and the third generation cephalosporin use frequencies were gradually reduced.Conclusion Surgical perioperative use of drugs in our hospital also require close attention of the majority of surgeons,in strict accordance with guidelines issued by the Ministry of health and rational use of antibiotics,and should also strengthen the management of the hospital,truly rational use of antibiotics.
Research Progress in Prediction of Crop Heterosis by Using Molecular Markers

Heterosis in crops is a complicated quantitative trait.Molecular markers can be used to estimate the genetic difference between the parents,further to some extent to predict heterosis in crops.By increasing the number of special markers related to heterosis and selecting parental materials from the same heterosis population,the accuracy of crop heterosis prediction can be improved.The genetic mechanism of heterosis in crops is still needed to be deeply studied.
Distribution of C14 in sucrose from glycolate-C14 and serine 3-C14 metabolism.

Abstract Serine-3-C 14 was converted by wheat leaves in the light to sucrose predominantly labeled in carbon atoms 1 and 6 of the hexoses. Glycolate-2-C 14 produced sucrose with C 14 hexoses labeled in carbons 1, 2, 5, and 6. By feeding glycolate-1-C 14 to soybean leaves, sucrose was obtained with 3,4-labeled hexoses. These results establish the existence of a glycolate pathway from the early carbon products of photosynthesis to uniformly labeled sucrose.
A Fortuitous Theoretical Isomorphism

‘Money’, Marx writes, ‘is God among commodities’ (Gr., 221/148). This is to say that money is nothing other than a real universal: a generality, viz. the common character of all commodities as ‘exchangevalues’, which has acquired independent existence in the form of some determinate commodity or ‘use-value’. It is an ideality ‘realized’ in material shape. More precisely, what is implied by Marx’s comment is that money is the ‘Christ’ of the commodity world. It is ‘objective spirit’: the ‘supra-sensible’ essence of commodities become sensuous nature as itself a commodity, exchange-value become use-value - like God become man, the ‘God-man’ of the Gospels. The universal valuecharacter of commodities is manifest in their similarity to money, ‘just as the sheeplike character of the Christian is manifest in his similarity to the Lamb of God’ (CI, 143/66).
Smith-Magenis Syndrome: Self-Hugging Behavior

A self-hugging behavior is described in 11 patients with Smith-Magenis syndrome (SMS) examined at Elwyn, PA, and the Alfred I du Pont Institute, Wilmington, Delaware.
Limitations of the EP Concept in an Idealized Gene–Phene Framework

Flexible definitions of cognitive phenotypes (CPs) or neurophenotypes acknowledge them as being not necessarily heritable but still biologically informative (see Chaps. 3 and 4 in this volume). Until such flexible perspectives are more widely adopted, the assumptions inherent in the gene-centered endophenotype (EP) concept remain a theoretical basis for tempering the CP construct. Numerous critiques of the EP construct have been written (e.g., Flint and Munafo in Psychol Med 37(2):163–180, 2007; Green et al. in Nat Rev Neurosci 9:710–720, 2008; Kendler and Neale in Mol Psychiatry 15(8):789–797, 2010), but few or none have focused on a fine dissection of some of the assumptions and underpinnings of the EP concept. This chapter does not seek to render another critique of EPs. In the context of the discussion of CPs, it tackles three key issues tied to EPs: (a) heritability, (b) complexity in the association of neural systems to genes, and (c) reliability and validity of EP measurements and standards. This chapter maintains that the heritability estimates that underlie the promise of the EP concept are questionable in terms of their meaningfulness. It also argues that it may be unreasonable to expect that EPs will be independent from environmental influence or will be temporally stable. Further, because many of the EPs of interest in the cognitive sciences are complex behavioral phenotypes themselves, this chapter questions the likelihood of successfully associating EPs with their genetic underpinnings or using them to productively untangle and predict psychiatric disease from a genetic vantage point.
Maternal GRB10 microdeletion is a novel cause of cystic placenta: Spectrum of genomic changes in the etiology of enlarged cystic placenta.

Abstract Introduction The genetics and pathology of diploid complete and triploid partial hydatidiform moles have been well established. Enlarged cystic placenta often indicates an underlying etiology and is frequently associated with adverse pregnancy outcome. Several imprinted genes are strongly expressed in placental tissues and essential for normal placental growth and development. Disruption of these imprinted genes can lead to abnormal placental pathology and placental stunting or overgrowth. We present the genetic etiologies of five unusual mosaic cases of enlarged cystic placentas and report a novel etiology, mosaicism for deletion of the maternal GRB10 gene. Methods Five mosaic placental mesenchymal dysplasia cases with discrete populations of “cystic” and “normal” villi and/or atypical p57 KIP2 immunostaining were evaluated by genetic analysis; including G-banded karyotyping, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), whole genome CGH + SNP microarray, conventional Sanger sequencing, and STR microsatellite analysis. Results Genetic etiologies ranged from genome-wide changes, including mosaic androgenetic isodisomy and mosaic diandric triploidy, to a novel microdeletion of the maternally-expressed GRB10 gene. An abnormal mosaic population of cells was also detected in the fetus in two cases. Discussion Four cases were mosaic for either diandric triploidy or an androgenetic cell population, and the enlarged cystic placentas were likely due to an excess of paternally-expressed growth promoting genes and also the absence of maternally-expressed growth restricting genes. Also we identified mosaicism for a novel microdeletion of the maternal GRB10 allele, a potent growth inhibitor, which resulted in placental overgrowth in the cystic area of one placenta. We advocate the use of ancillary techniques to investigate complex mosaic cases of enlarged cystic placentas to discover atypical genetic etiologies and to increase our understanding of the placental genome.
Determination of uranium isotope ratios using a liquid sampling atmospheric pressure glow discharge/Orbitrap mass spectrometer system.

Rationale The field of highly accurate and precise isotope ratio analysis, for use in nonproliferation, has been dominated by thermal ionization and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. While these techniques are considered the gold standard for isotope ratio analysis, a downsized instrument capable of accurately and precisely measuring uranium (U) isotope ratios is desirable for field studies or in laboratories with limited infrastructure. Methods The developed system interfaces the liquid sampling, an atmospheric pressure glow discharge (LS-APGD) ion source, with a high-resolution Exactive Orbitrap mass spectrometer. With this experimental setup certified U isotope standards and unknown samples were analyzed. The accuracy and precision of the system were then determined. Results The LS-APGD/Exactive instrument measured a certified reference material of natural U (235U/238U = 0.007261) with a 235U/238U ratio of 0.007065 and a % relative standard uncertainty of 0.082, meeting the International Target Values for the destructive analysis of U. In addition, when three unknowns were measured and these measurements were compared with the results from an ICP multi-collector instrument, there were no statistical differences between the two instruments. Conclusions The LS-APGD/Orbitrap system, while still in the preliminary stages of development, offers highly accurate and precise isotope ratio results that suggest a potential paradigm shift in the world of isotope ratio analysis. Furthermore, the portability of the LS-APGD as an elemental ion source, combined with the small size and smaller operating demands of the Orbitrap, suggests that the instrumentation is capable of being field-deployable.
Get Real! Walking the Walk to Inform Talking the Talk: Full-Time Teaching in an Urban High School

After 12 years of teaching at the university level, Paul Jablon takes a full year to teach full-time at an urban high school, while also the science director. This experience allowed time to reexperience science teaching from three perspectives: (1) the teacher alone in the science classroom, (2) a supervisor trying to move everyone towards more effective and engaging methodologies, and (3) as an educator in a big traditional school where practices were not meeting the needs of a diverse population of students. It was a personal experience, a community building experience, and, unfortunately as always, a political experience. While there, he attempted to do much of what he had suggested, modeled, and simulated about teaching through inquiry in his methods courses. This chapter looks at what further insights he acquired about learning and teaching science within a community of learners and how it changed his practice as a teacher educator at a university.
Preventing Suicide in Forensic Settings: Assessment and Intervention for Inmates With Serious Mental Illness.

Suicide is one of the leading causes of inmate deaths in correctional settings. Furthermore, there is heightened risk for suicide among individuals diagnosed with serious mental illness (SMI) who p...
Wildlife implications across snag treatment types in jack pine stands of Upper Michigan

Abstract Standing dead trees, or snags, represent post-disturbance biological legacies in forest ecosystems, and intentional creation of new snags is increasingly common during forest treatments. The abundance, volume, size, and distribution of snags can affect wildlife communities and stand-level biological diversity. Characteristics such as the wood properties of different tree species, environmental conditions, and cause of tree death (e.g., insects, disease, senescence, wind, fire) can influence decomposition and subsequent use of snags by wildlife. The objectives of this study were to characterize decay patterns in jack pine (Pinus banksiana) snags that had been killed by prescribed fire, topping, and girdling and determine the effects of these treatments on subsequent snag use by subcortical insects and primary cavity-nesting birds. The prescribed fire, topping, and girdling treatments were implemented in 2003, 2004, and 2007, respectively; bird excavations were quantified in 2014 and insect activity was measured in 2016. One-way analysis of variance tests were used to examine any differences among treatments in snag characteristics, decay characteristics, past insect activity, and past use by birds. An information theoretic approach to model selection was then used to rank potential predictors of bird foraging activity and cavities. The topping treatment had unique decay characteristics relative to the other two treatments; topped snags had the highest levels of past insect colonization, were softer, and had higher proportions of loose bark remaining on the boles. Trees killed by prescribed fire had the greatest number of foraging excavations and cavities. Girdled snags had the lowest evidence of past insect colonization and showed different levels of decay and insect use at different vertical positions on the snag bole. Comparison of candidate models showed that a model containing treatment type alone was the highest ranked when predicting foraging by birds, while snag diameter was the highest ranked when predicting the presence of cavities. A model containing treatment and snag density was also a highly ranked for predicting cavity presence. Our findings suggest that different jack pine snag treatments result in unique decay trajectories that may influence snag use by an array of wildlife taxa. Our characterization of three snag creation treatments can also inform options for generating snags, depending on the desired outcome, when management for biological legacies and wildlife habitat is of interest within mixed-pine forests of the Great Lakes region.
Animal Intensification at Neolithic Gritille

The development of agriculture in the Near East was the result of innovative methods of plant and animal husbandry. The adoption of these new methods led to the domestication of plants and animals, that is to say the development of plants and animals that are dependent on humans for survival and reproduction. While these innovative methods of utilization were adopted deliberately, not all of the consequences of these changes could be foreseen; the domestication of plants and animals affected productivity in surprising ways and entailed a reorganization of subsistence activities. This reorganization had wide-spread ramifications in the social organization of these early farmers; it is this entire suite of changes that is presently understood as the Neolithic Revolution.
Structure and Decomposition Theory of Lattices

One of the most natural problems which arise in the investigation of an abstract algebraic system is that of representing the elements of the system in terms of a canonical subset by means of the operations of the system. Thus for a polynomial domain over a field with the operation that of ordinary polynomial multiplication it is the problem of representing polynomials as products of irreducible polynomials. For lattices there are two operations with respect to which we may consider the representation of the elements of the lattice. Since the operations are dual it suffices to consider representations with respect to one of the operations. Thus we shall treat only meet representations. Now an element which cannot be expressed as the meet of elements distinct from itself clearly has only trivial representations. Furthermore these elements must surely be included in any reasonable canonical set. Thus we shall be particularly concerned with meet representations in terms of meet irreducible elements.
Perceived Job and Labor Market Insecurity in the United States: An Assessment of Workers’ Attitudes From 2002 to 2014:

The distinction between perceived job insecurity (workers’ assessment of their likelihood of losing their job) and perceived labor market insecurity (workers’ assessment of their ability to find an...
Firearms and Tool Marks

The field of firearms identification is typically associated with tool mark identification in the context of two related but different entities. Much of firearms identification entails a specific area of tool mark identification. By definition, a tool mark results from the contact of one surface with another, the harder of which is the “tool.” Thus, in the case of a firearm and a bullet, the firearm (e.g., the interior of the barrel) is the tool that produces tool marks on the surface of the bullet as it moves through the barrel upon discharge of the firearm. Likewise, the examination of firing pin impressions, magazine marks, extractor marks, ejector marks, breech face marks, and chamber marks on fired cartridge cases all constitute tool mark examinations.
The Rationalizing Voter: Unconscious Thought in Political Information Processing

We review and evaluate a growing literature in social and political psychology on the ubiquity of unconscious thought processes and present a theoretical model, called John Q. Public (JQP), which seeks to explain how citizens form and express their political beliefs, attitudes, and choices. Our most revolutionary claims are that people are generally unable to reliably report their political beliefs, attitudes, and behavioral intentions; that unconscious thought underlies all political deliberation, introducing important systematic biases, but paradoxically also providing the capacity for rational action in the face of severe cognitive limitations; and that conscious deliberation is typically more rationalizing than rational.
Melanin is a Double-Edged Sword

Melanin is known to photoprotect by physical absorption/scattering of UV and by electron transfer/free radical scavenging. In this work we show that melanin can also facilitate potentially harmful redox reactions in vitro. By kinetic spectrometry and 02uptake, we show that both synthetic eumelanin (Sigma) and Sepia melanin extracted from cuttlefish markedly accelerate the tyrosinase-catalyzed oxygenation of the cytotoxic phenol p-hydroxyanisole MMEH to the cytotoxic 4-methoxy-1,2-benzoquinone. These studies indicate that a substrate-melanin complex transfers electrons to tyrosinase to regenerate Cu(I) necessary for reduction of molecular 02.Prior irradiation of melanin with solar-simulating UV results in evanescent changes in the kinetics of quinone formation which are consistent with reversible photooxidation of melanin. The latter effect vis-a-vis photoprotection is ambivalent at best. Thus, melanin protects with one hand, and, perhaps unwittingly, may place surrounding cells at risk with the other.
Equity in Rural Health and Health Care

This chapter assesses the equity of rural health and health care delivery. It presents a conceptual framework and normative and empirical criteria for measuring equity; reviews major federal and state policy initiatives to enhance equity; assembles current evidence regarding the extent to which equity has actually been achieved; and presents alternative models of rural health care programs and policy for enhancing equity.
The society for economic botany

At the meeting of the Council of the Society for Economic Botany on June 11, 1978, the concept of an Economic Botany Section in the Botanical Society of America was endorsed. Such a section would enable persons attending Botanical Society meetings, whether or not they also attend Society for Economic Botany Meetings, to sponsor symposia, contributed papers, or conduct other activities concerning economic botany. The Botanical Society has 12 other sections, which have functioned well over the years in facilitating information flow between its members and those of related societies. The Council of the Botanical Society of America, at its June 25, 1978, meeting, authorized the establishment of an Economic Botany Section. The next step, therefore, is development of a list of interested members. Any member of the Botanical Society of America who has interests in economic botany and wishes to affiliate with the Economic Botany Section should notify
System-level model and experiments for irrigation water alkalinity reduction and enrichment using an atmospheric pressure dielectric barrier discharge.

Abstract The treatment of distilled water with varying amounts of dissolved sodium bicarbonate (representing alkalinity) is considered using an atmospheric pressure electrical discharge. The discharge ignited between a capillary tube (used as powered electrode) and a ground electrode wrapped around the beaker holding the treated water consists of streamers propagating in ambient air and striking the water surface. The streamer interaction with water is shown to lead to a decrease in pH and an increase in nitrate concentration. The pH variation with time is shown to be similar to a titration curve for acid-base neutralization with final pH values around 3 for 22 min of treatment. The nitrate ion concentration increase with time is consistent with a two-rate system-level model that is characterized by two asymptotic rates for N O 3 − creation by the plasma. The two asymptotic rates are calibrated to be about 2.7 μmol/min and 22.5 μmol/min with the transition between the two rates occurring at the breakeven time that is representative of the time required for all dissolved bicarbonate to be consumed by the plasma treatment. The increase in rate of N O 3 − creation at the breakeven time is attributed to the increase in conductivity of the treated solution once all bicarbonate is consumed thereby modifying the plasma properties. Another system-level model that is based on the observed pH variation is also considered for comparison with measured data. While both system-level models have some discrepancies with the measurements, the two-rate model based on the nitrate ion concentration is concluded to be more useful for determining the N O 3 − formation rates in the context of irrigation water enrichment. The discrepancies are attributed to the simplicity of the system-level models considered here where the effect of the plasma is completely represented by the creation of just one chemical species in H N O 3 thereby neglecting potentially important species such as H N O 2 and H 2 O 2 . Nevertheless, the proposed system-level model could greatly assist in the design of plasma treatment systems with specified alkalinity, pH and nitrate ion levels for irrigation water.
Monitoring Blockchains with Self-Organizing Maps

Blockchains such as those used by the Bitcoin and Ethereum cryptocurrencies provide a global, observable record of all transactions and associated data. Analyzing blockchain data is useful for tasks such as detecting fraudulent activities, studying the use and growth of the system, and understanding its levels of anonymity and traceability. Such analysis is challenging due to the high volume and rapidly changing characteristics of popular blockchains. In particular, online (soft real-time) analysis of blockchains requires methods that adapt organically to changes in the data. This paper describes such a method based on self-organizing maps and reports on experiments using the Bitcoin blockchain data.
Understanding the influence of carbon addition on the corrosion behavior and mechanical properties of Al alloy “covetics”

The recent invention of a new processing method for metals and alloys involving the addition of carbon has led to several reports demonstrating an enhancement in the mechanical properties of the materials known as “covetics.” In this work the corrosion behavior and mechanical properties of a 6061 aluminum–carbon covetic are investigated and explained. Covetic samples with carbon added were found to exhibit a corrosion potential 40–70 mV higher than samples processed without the addition of carbon. However, the corrosion current density of the covetic with carbon added relative to samples without carbon added was also increased. Surface characterization following the corrosion testing using scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction revealed significant differences between the covetic with carbon added and the covetic parent material processed without carbon addition. After corrosion, the surface of the covetic with carbon added showed a alloying element rich surface morphology from the parent alloy and exhibited a smaller grain size than the material processed without carbon. Additionally, changes in the mechanical properties of the covetic were observed with both the hardness and the compressive strength of the covetic increasing as a result of carbon addition. The observed change in corrosion behavior and mechanical properties of the covetic with carbon added, along with the physical characterization, are consistent with the formation of a secondary phase in the alloy induced by carbon addition during the process used to make the covetic.
Avascular necrosis post unstable slipped capital femoral epiphysis: a treatment algorithm with staged hinged hip distraction: mid-term results.

Background:Management of avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head in slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is difficult. We proposed to ascertain if staged hip distraction could prevent coll...
Quantitative assessment of airway remodelling and response to allergen in asthma.

Background and objective In vivo evaluation of the microstructural differences between asthmatic and non-asthmatic airways and their functional consequences is relevant to understanding and, potentially, treating asthma. In this study, we use endobronchial optical coherence tomography to investigate how allergic airways with asthma differ from allergic non-asthmatic airways in baseline microstructure and in response to allergen challenge. Methods A total of 45 subjects completed the study, including 20 allergic, mildly asthmatic individuals, 22 non-asthmatic allergic controls and 3 healthy controls. A 3-cm airway segment in the right middle and right upper lobe were imaged in each subject immediately before and 24 h following segmental allergen challenge to the right middle lobe. Relationships between optical airway measurements (epithelial and mucosal thicknesses, mucosal buckling and mucus) and airway obstruction (FEV1 /FVC (forced expiratory volume in 1 s/forced vital capacity) and FEV1 % (FEV1 as a percentage of predictive value)) were investigated. Results Significant increases at baseline and in response to allergen were observed for all four of our imaging metrics in the asthmatic airways compared to the non-asthmatic airways. Epithelial thickness and mucosal buckling exhibited a significant relationship to FEV1 /FVC in the asthmatic group. Conclusion Simultaneous assessments of airway microstructure, buckling and mucus revealed both structural and functional differences between the mildly asthmatic and control groups, with airway buckling seeming to be the most relevant factor. The results of this study demonstrate that a comprehensive, microstructural approach to assessing the airways may be important in future asthma studies as well as in the monitoring and treatment of asthma.