cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The political ideology of the neo‐traditional family

Abstract A recent and popular family values literature seeks to justify and enforce a neo‐traditional family model of nuclear heterosexual families with gender differentiated roles. Adherents of this neo‐traditional family form contend that their primary concern is with children and with family arrangements that enhance child well‐being. We demonstrate that the arguments for child well‐being in family values ideology are weak and that implicit in family values ideology is a disclaimed political agenda of masculine private and public authority. Further, we conclude that questions of family arrangements and ordering inextricably raise issues of gender and power that are central to citizenship in liberal—democratic regimes.
Indocyanine green availability from compounding pharmacies.

Indocyanine green for injection (IC-Green, Akorn Inc., Buffalo Grove, IL) is a sterile, lyophilized green powder dye containing 25 mg of drug with no more than 5% sodium iodide. The drug is used for several diagnostic purposes, including determining cardiac output and hepatic function, and for
Band ligation versus propanolol and isosorbide mononitrate for primary prophylaxis of variceal bleeding: Lui HF, Stanley AJ, Forrest EH, et al., Primary Prophylaxis of Variceal Hemorrhage: A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Band Ligation, Propanolol, and Isosorbide Mononitrate.Gastroenterology 2002;123:735–44☆

Abstract Lui et al. performed a randomized trial to compare endoscopic variceal band ligation (EVL) with pharmacological treatment, using propanolol (PPL) or isosorbide mononitrate (IMN), for primary prevention of esophageal variceal bleeding. A total of 172 cirrhotic patients with Grade II–III esophageal varices were randomly assigned to receive either esophageal banding (44 patients) or pharmacological monotherapy with PPL (66 patients) or IMN (62 patients). The main endpoint evaluated was primary hemorrhage. Bleeding outcomes were calculated as 2-yr actuarial risks. Eradication of varices was defined as complete absence of varices or a regression to Grade I varices. EVL sessions were performed on a schedule of biweekly endoscopies and band ligations until eradication was achieved. Varices were eradicated after a mean of 3.1 ± 2.5 endoscopy sessions. PPL administration was started at a dose of 40 mg b.i.d. and increased incrementally every 3 days to a target dose of 160 mg/day. IMN dosage began at 20 mg b.i.d. and was increased after 3 days to a target dose of 80 mg per day. Two-year actuarial risks for primary variceal bleed were 6.2% for the EVL group, 19.4% for the PPL group, and 27.7% for the IMN group. One patient in the EVL group had a complication consisting of perforation of the upper esophagus secondary to insertion of the overtube. Of patients in the PPL group, 45% complained of adverse effects from treatment, resulting in a 30% withdrawal rate. Of IMN-receiving patients, 42% reported adverse effects, causing a 21% withdrawal rate. The most often encountered adverse effects of pharmacological monotherapy include breathlessness, headache, and fatigue. The only statistically significant difference between therapies showed less variceal bleeding with EVL when compared with IMN therapy. No statistical significance was achieved when comparing EVL with PPL or PPL with IMN. Pharmacological monotherapy produced a considerable adverse effect profile. Significantly fewer treatment withdrawals were observed with EVL compared with pharmacotherapy ( p = 0.00). The authors concluded that EVL was as effective as PPL and more effective than IMN in prophylaxis of first variceal bleed in patients with esophageal varices. The authors suggested that EVL be considered as first-line therapy alongside PPL monotherapy in prevention of first variceal bleed in cirrhotic patients, given the extensive adverse effects of pharmacotherapy resulting in withdrawal from treatment.
Thermal conductivity enhancement of nanostructure-based colloidal suspensions utilized as phase change materials for thermal energy storage: A review

Abstract A review of studies focused on enhancing the thermal conductivity of phase change materials (PCM) for thermal energy storage upon introduction of nanostructures is presented. These emerging materials have only been studied since 2005 and represent a clear departure from previous/existing practices of utilizing fixed, stationary high-conductivity inserts/structures into PCM. Carbon-based nanostructures (nanofibers, nanoplatelets and graphene flakes), carbon nanotubes, both metallic (Ag, Al, C/Cu and Cu) and metal oxide (Al 2 O 3 , CuO, MgO and TiO 2 ) nanoparticles and silver nanowires have been explored as the materials of the thermal conductivity promoters. Emphasis of the work so far has been placed on the dependence of the enhanced thermal conductivity on mass fraction of the nanostructures and temperature for both liquid and solid phases, however issues related to modifications of the degree of supercooling, melting temperature, viscosity, heat of fusion, etc. are also reported. In general, carbon-based nanostructures and carbon nanotubes exhibit far greater enhancement of thermal conductivity in comparison to metallic/metal oxide nanoparticles due to the high aspect-ratio of these nanofillers. Utilizing a figure of merit for the observed thermal conductivity enhancement, the majority of 340+ measured data points in both liquid and solid phases are summarized.
An Integrated Performance Monitoring and Solar Tracking System for Utility Scale PV Plants

Monitoring of photovoltaic (PV) systems is essential for achieving reliable and, maximum yield from solar PV plants. This paper proposes PV plant hierarchy, and a novel near real-time monitoring system combined with a solar tracking controller for utility scale PV installations. Currently, most PV installations employ monitoring at the inverter level, lacking sufficient resolution. Furthermore, the solar tracking and performance monitoring systems are isolated from one another. The proposed design increases monitoring resolution, allowing PV malfunctions to be addressed immediately, effectively optimizing a plant’s power generation. Moreover, the tracker control and monitoring are fused into an inclusive hardware design. Incorporating state-of-the-art electronic sensors, coupled with wireless communication protocols, the resulting system is a robust, accurate sensor and control network. Accessible through the internet, the system will provide a way to monitor and control multiple installations from a centralized location. The collected data enables efficient maintenance scheduling, and long-term performance analysis for utility scale PV plants. The developed system includes string level power measurement sensors, sun tracking actuators, a network of microprocessors and a central processing unit (CPU) for application in utility-scale central inverter PV plants. The basic designs and feasibility of the system are presented in this paper.© 2011 ASME
Detection of small UAV helicopters using micro-Doppler

The detection of small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) using radar can be challenging due to the small radar cross section and the presence of false targets such as birds. We present the initial results of micro-Doppler radar data collected on a small helicopter at G-band and compare the results to previously measured birds. The resulting signature differences can be used to help discriminate small UAVs from naturally occurring moving clutter such as birds.
Apparent Anomalous Isotopic Effect in Some Bands Associated with the Swan Bands

A NUMBER of weak bands have been noted in sources of carbon molecular spectra by Johnson1 and by Fox and Herzberg2. Because of their association with carbon spectra, these bands were attributed to the carbon molecule, and several of the stronger ones (λλ 4770, 4836, 4911, 4997) tentatively identified as tail-bands of the Swan system. Measurements of the isotopic heads of the first three of these bands obtained from carbon enriched in the heavy isotope give some information concerning their nature and display an anomalously large isotopic shift.
On the symmetrization rate of an intense geophysical vortex

Abstract Numerical models demonstrate that a broad class of geophysical vortices freely evolve toward vertically aligned, axisymmetric states. In principle, this intrinsic drive toward symmetry opposes destructive shearing by the environmental flow. This article examines the case in which a discrete vortex-Rossby-wave dominates a perturbation from symmetry, and symmetrization occurs by decay of the wave. The wave is damped by a resonance with the fluid rotation frequency at a critical radius, r * . The damping rate is proportional to the radial derivative of potential vorticity at r * . Until now, the theory of resonantly damped vortex-Rossby-waves (technically quasi-modes) was formally restricted to slowly rotating vortices, which obey quasigeostrophic (QG) dynamics. This article extends the theory to rapidly rotating vortices. The analysis makes use of the asymmetric balance (AB) approximation. Even at a modest Rossby number (unity), AB theory can predict damping rates that exceed extrapolated QG results by orders of magnitude. This finding is verified upon comparison of AB theory to numerical experiments, based on the primitive equations. The experiments focus on the decay of low azimuthal wave-number asymmetries. A discrete vortex-Rossby-wave can also resonate with an outward propagating inertia-buoyancy wave (Lighthill radiation), inducing both to grow . At large Rossby numbers, this growth mechanism can be dynamically relevant. All balance models, including AB theory, neglect inertia-buoyancy waves, and therefore ignore the possibility of a Rossby-inertia-buoyancy (RIB) instability. This article shows that a large potential vorticity gradient (of the proper sign) at the critical radius r * can suppress the RIB instability, and thereby preserve balanced flow, even at large Rossby numbers.
Divot Resistance Varies among Bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass Cultivars

Divots created by a golf stroke are a natural occurrence on golf courses and the resistance of turf to divot injury is an important factor that should be considered when selecting a turfgrass. Therefore, the primary objective of this experiment was to quantify the divot resistance for various bermudagrass (Cynodon spp. Rich.) and zoysiagrass (Zoysia spp. Willd.) cultivars in a field experiment, with a secondary objective to compare evaluation methods for quantifying divot resistance. This study was conducted in Fayetteville, AR. Divot type, severity, and volume as well as a Turfgrass Shear Tester were used to determine divot resistance. 'Riviera' bermudagrass had the largest volume per divot (70 cm 3 ), while the smallest divots (<28 cm 3 ) were observed with 'Cavalier', 'Diamond', and 'Zorro' zoysiagrass. More force was required to displace divots from Diamond zoysiagrass than from Riviera, 'Patriot', or 'Princess 77' bermduagrass. Zoysia matrella (L.) Merr. consistently demonstrated greater divot resistance than Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. The four methods for evaluating divot resistance provided similar findings for divot resistance for the cultivars and species tested. These results provide researchers methods for evaluating divot resistance and will allow golf course superintendents to better select cultivars and species that will improve playing conditions and reduce divot injury.
Children’s Dairy Intake in the United States : Too Little, Too Fat?

Objective To compare reported dairy/calcium intake with intake recommendations and examination of food sources and fat levels of dairy intake in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999-2002. Study design Dietary, anthropometric, and sociodemographic data for 2- to 18-year-olds (n = 7716) were evaluated to compare intakes of dairy (MyPyramid) and calcium (Adequate Intake [AI]) recommendations. US Department of Agriculture food codes were used to identify mutually exclusive food groups of dairy-contributing foods, which were ranked in descending order proportional to total intake. Complex sample survey Student t tests were used to determine statistical significance among intakes in 4 age groups and between reported and recommended intakes. Results Dairy consumption was not significantly different among age groups, but only 2- to 3-year-olds met the MyPyramid recommendation. Calcium intake was significantly different among age groups, and 2- to 8-year-olds met the AI. Intake of flavored milk ranged from 9% to 18%. More than half of the milk consumed by 2- to 3-year-olds was whole milk, and, with the exception of yogurt consumption in 2- to 3-year-olds, children choose to consume more of the highest-fat varieties of cheese, yogurt, ice cream, and dairy-based toppings. Conclusions Dairy and calcium intakes are inadequate in 4- to 18-year-olds. Most children consume the high-fat varieties of milk and dairy products. Focusing nutrition guidance efforts on increasing the intake of the low-fat dairy products, with special emphasis on increasing calcium intake in school-age children and adolescents through flavored low-fat milk products, may be beneficial.
X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy: role of very long-chain acyl-CoA synthetases

The principal biochemical abnormality in the neurodegenerative disorder X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD) is elevated plasma and tissue levels of very long-chain fatty acids (VLCFA). Enzymes with very long-chain acyl-CoA synthetase (VLACS) activity are required for VLCFA metabolism, including degradation by peroxisomal β-oxidation or incorporation into complex lipids, and may also participate in VLCFA synthesis. Two enzymes with VLACS activity, ACSVL1 and BG1, were investigated for their potential role in X-ALD biochemical pathology. Skin fibroblast mRNA levels for ACSVL1, an enzyme previously shown to be in peroxisomes and to participate in VLCFA β-oxidation, were not significantly different between normal controls, patients with childhood cerebral X-ALD, and patients with adrenomyeloneuropathy. Similar results were obtained with mRNA for BG1, a non-peroxisomal enzyme that is highly expressed in nervous system, adrenal gland, and testis, the principal tissues pathologically affected in X-ALD. No significant differences in the immunohistochemical staining patterns of tissues expressing either ACSVL1 or BG1 were observed when wild-type and X-ALD mice were compared. Western blot analysis of BG1 protein levels showed no differences between fibroblasts from controls, cerebral X-ALD, or adrenomyeloneuropathy patients. BG1 protein levels were similar in wild-type and X-ALD mouse brain, spinal cord, testis, and adrenal gland. We hypothesized that one function of BG1 was to direct VLCFA into the cholesterol ester synthesis pathway. However, BG1 depletion in Neuro2a cells using RNA interference did not decrease incorporation of labeled VLCFA into cholesterol esters. We conclude that the role, if any, of ACSVL1 and BG1 in X-ALD biochemical pathology is indirect.
Remote-controlled photonics laboratories for distance learning

At Queensborough Community College, with the support of the National Science Foundation (Advanced Technological Education grant award #DUE - 9752061), we have addressed the issues of distance learning and laboratories and are adapting courses for our Laser and Fiber-Optics Technology Program for distance learning. The 'problem' of the laboratory is solved by remote-controlled laboratory equipment. We have completed the work on course materials in physical optics, lasers and fiber optics. Course materials include interactive multimedia textbooks and laboratory manuals along with the remote-controlled laboratory exercises. The remote-controlled exercises are 'real' experiments with 'real' data as opposed to simulations. The real nature of the exercises allows for the unexpected, which occurs in any laboratory situation. Remote-controlled laboratory exercises include interferometry, diffraction, polarization, acousto-optics, electro-optics, second harmonic generation, Q-switching, modelocking, thermal lensing, diode laser characteristics, laser principles, optical time domain reflectometry, coupling losses, wave division multiplexing and characteristics of fiber optic switches and couplers. As course materials were developed they were tested at a remote site, Suffolk County Community College.
Statistical evaluation of the regulatory guidelines for use of furosemide in race horses.

Summary. The pharmacokinetic behavior of furosemide concentrations in performance horses is of great interest to the equine industry and equine researchers. Specifically, such information is useful for the evaluation of the existing guidelines in several racing jurisdictions and for the possible development of new guidelines for varying time periods after administration. We studied several approaches within the framework of nonlinear mixed effects models to increase the accuracy of evaluating these guidelines. Theoretical properties of the proposed methods were examined and the variances of the resulting estimators compared. Their numerical performances were further evaluated through simulations. Finally, we applied these methods to a furosemide concentration profile data set and used our findings to address certain important practical issues.
Pre-election Interview Effects on Voter Turnout

VOTERS are frequently interviewed before an election to predict and explain the outcome. However, the interviewed sample cannot be considered equivalent to those not interviewed no matter how carefully the sample is selected. The interview experience alters the respondent's perceptions and knowledge about the candidates and issues, influencing subsequent behavior. The best that public opinion researchers can do is to be aware of these differences and to adjust for them. This article reports on a study investigating one effect of participation in a pre-election interview, an increase in voter turnout. Prior research on the pre-election interview effect has yielded discrepant findings and explanations. Clausen (1968) compared the turnout in a Survey Research Center (SRC) sample interviewed before and after the 1964 presidential election with that of a Census Bureau sample interviewed only after the election. Since the SRC sample had a reported turnout of 78 percent and the Census Bureau sample had a reported turnout of 72 percent, he concluded that the interview process converted 6 percent from nonvoting to voting by stimulating their election interest. Citing problems with Clausen's methodology, such as the nonequivalence of the interview samples and the errors associated with reported turnout, Kraut and McConahay (1973) conducted a true experiment to estimate the turnout enhancement effect. They selected two samples of 52 registered voters and attempted to interview one group before a
A new chisel for sculpting Darwin's endless forms

The distribution of secreted morphogens in a developing organ determines its form by instructing size, shape and pattern. Pentagone has been identified as a secreted factor that controls the distribution of the morphogen Decapentaplegic (Dpp) in the Drosophila melanogaster wing.
Geometric foundations of numerical algorithms and symmetry

This paper outlines a new general construction, named “multi-space”, that forms the proper geometrical foundation for the numerical analysis of differential equations – in direct analogy with the role played by jet space as the basic object underlying the geometry of differential equations. Application of the theory of moving frames leads to a general framework for constructing symmetry-preserving numerical approximations to differential invariants and invariant differential equations.
Sunshine rhythms, a possible Zeitgeber for multiphasic biological rhythms during a year

Abstract Data on sunshine and barometric pressure were analyzed with a periodic regression technique, using the trigonometric fitting functions of the Fourier series. The data were obtained from U.S. Weather Stations in North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia, and least‐squares fitted curves were obtained for each year's data from 1950 to 1968. A prominent similarity for most of the curves was the occurence of three or four peaks and troughs of approximately equal amplitude within a year. A peak in the fall of the year was usually present, and a length of day influence was not a typical feature of the curves. In general, then, sunshine and barometric pressure do not exhibit annual rhythms, and the possible role of these shorter term variations in climatological events as synchronizers of physiological processes is discussed. A review of studies where repeated sampling of endocrine or metabolic variables were made throughout a period of a year or longer indicates no annual rhythms but rather multiple p...
Subtype specific effects of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor ligands on corepressor affinity.

Natural ligands for nuclear receptors are believed to activate gene transcription by causing dissociation of corepressors and promoting the association of coactivator proteins. Using multiple biophysical techniques, we find that peptides derived from one of the nuclear receptor interacting motifs of the corepressors nuclear receptor corepressor (NCoR) and silencing mediator of retinoid and thyroid receptors (SMRT) are able to bind the ligand binding domains (LBD) of all three PPAR (peroxisome proliferator activated receptor) subtypes. Using these peptides as tools, we find that ligands designed as selective agonists for PPARγ promote the association of coactivator peptides and dissociation of corepressor peptides as expected on PPARγ but surprisingly have varied effects on the binding of corepressor peptides to the other PPAR subtypes. In particular, some members of a class of l-tyrosine-based compounds designed as selective agonists for PPARγ reduce the affinity for corepressor peptides on PPARγ but incr...
The electrochemical reaction of lithium on mercury in the presence of water in n,n-dimethylacetamide

Abstract The displacement of N,N-dimethylacetamide molecules by water molecules in the lithium ion solvation sphere as the concentration of water in dimethylacetamide is increased, is confirmed. An electron-transfer mechanism where the water molecules act as electron bridges is suggested. Cyclic voltammetric experiments yield a single lithium ion reduction wave and a number of oxidation waves which vary with scan rate or water concentration. The constancy of elapsed time between the successive oxidation waves indicates a periodicity, which is attributed to electrode deactivation as a result of lithium hydroxide film formation. Chronopotentiometric data are presented to substantiate electrode deactivation.
Hybrid infrared focal-plane arrays

In this paper, new results are presented in the development of hybrid infrared focal-plane arrays. Attention is focused on hybrid focal-plane arrays using backside-illuminated InAsSb and HgCdTe photovoltaic detectors which are source-coupled into a charge-coupled device (CCD) multiplexer. Background suppression capabilities of the input circuit, charge skimming and partitioning, are experimentally demonstrated. Data on the uniformity and temperature dependence of the input MOSFET threshold voltage are presented. The temperature dependence of the threshold voltage agrees well with theoretically calculated values. Several aspects of the noise problems associated with the hybrid infrared focal-plane arrays are discussed. Noise of a source-coupled input circuit with a feedback amplifier is analyzed and it is shown that although two new noise sources are added, the circuit can operate with less noise than the simple source-coupled input circuit. To further understand focal-plane operation, a noise performance model has been constructed which gives excellent agreement with experimental data. Finally, the performance of hybrid focal-plane arrays is discussed.
Influence of scandium addition on the high-temperature grain size stabilization of oxide-dispersion-strengthened (ODS) ferritic alloy

Abstract The influence of 1–4 at% Sc addition on the thermal stability of mechanically alloyed ODS ferritic alloy was studied in this work. Sc addition was found to significantly stabilize grain size and microhardness at high temperatures. Grain sizes of samples with 1 and 4 at% Sc was found maintained in the nanoscale range at temperatures up to 1000 °C with hardness maintained at 5.6 and 6.7 GPa, respectively. The detailed microstructure was also investigated from EDS elemental mapping, where nanofeatures [ScTiO] were observed, while nanosized [YTiO] particles were rarely seen. This is probably due to the concentration difference between Sc and Y, leading to the formation of [ScTiO] favoring that of [YTiO]. Precipitation was considered as the major source for the observed high temperature stabilization. In addition, 14YT–Sc alloys without large second phases such as Ti-oxide can exhibit better performance compared to conventional ODS materials.
Assessment of hamster blastocysts derived from eight-cell embryos cultured in hamster embryo culture medium-2 (HECM-2): cell numbers and viability following embryo transfer.

The viability of hamster blastocysts, cultured from the eight-cell stage using hamster embryo culture medium-2, was examined by embryo transfer. Approximately 15–20 cultured hamster blastocysts were surgically transferred unilaterally to uterine horns of pseudopregnant recipient hamsters that had been mated to vasectomized males 3 days previously. Control recipients received in vivo developed, freshly recovered eight-cell embryos or blastocysts on day 2 or 3 of pseudopregnancy, respectively. Of the successful embryo transfers, the experimental group (receiving cultured blastocysts;n=10) gave 51.8% implantations and 28.2% live pups. These values were closely similar to those of the controls; the percentages of control implantations and offspring were 51.1 and 34.0%, respectively, for eight-cell embryo transfer (n=7,P>0.69) and 48.5 and 28.9% for blastocyst transfer (n=6,P>0.52). To evaluate the quality of cultured hamster blastocysts, the following two parameters were examined. (1) The mean number of cells per blastocysts was 24.4±0.7 for cultured blastocysts. This value was similar to that (range, 14–24) obtained in this laboratory for in vivo developed freshly recovered blastocysts. (2) Oxygen consumption analysis revealed that cultured blastocysts actively respired at a level close to that observed with freshly recovered eight-cell embryos (slopes of oxygrams: 0.25 and 0.26, respectively). From these results, it is concluded that hamster blastocysts, cultured from the eight-cell stage, are (a) qualitatively similar to freshly recovered in vivo developed blastocysts and (b) biologically viable as revealed by the production of live offspring upon embryo transfer. Therefore, hamster embryo culture medium-2 could be useful for studies relating to embryo-derived proteins involved in the process of implantation and for the production of transgenic hamster embryos, for example, using embryonic stem cells.
Surgical management of unruptured posterior carotid artery wall aneurysms

Intracranial aneurysms arising from the posterior wall of the supraclinoid carotid artery are extremely common lesions. The aneurysm dilation typically occurs in immediate proximity to the origin of the posterior communicating artery and, less commonly, the anterior choroidal artery (AChA). Because of the increasingly widespread use of noninvasive neuroimaging methods to evaluate patients believed to harbor cerebral lesions, many of these carotid artery aneurysms are now documented in their unruptured state, prior to occurrence of subarachnoid hemorrhage. Based on these factors, the management of unruptured posterior carotid artery (PCA) wall aneurysms is an important element of any neurosurgical practice. Despite impressive recent advances in endovascular therapy, the placement of microsurgical clips to exclude aneurysms with preservation of all afferent and efferent vasculature remains the most efficacious and durable therapy. To date, an optimal outcome is only achieved when the neurosurgeon is able to combine systematic preoperative neurovascular assessment with meticulous operative technique. In this report, the authors review their surgical approach to PCA wall aneurysms, which is greatly based on the extensive neurovascular experience of the senior author. Focus is placed on their methods of preoperative evaluation and operative technique, with emphasis on neurovascular anatomy and the significance of oculomotor nerve compression. They conclude by discussing surgery-related complications, with a particular focus on intraoperative rupture of aneurysms and their management, and the postoperative ischemic AChA syndrome.
High Speed Anisotropic Reactive Ion Etching of Gold Films

Etching of gold films using chlorine gas was investigated using a parallel plate reactive ion etching machine. Etch rates of 4400 to 9800 {angstrom}/min were achieved with power levels of 200 to 400 W and pressures of 50 to 100 mTorr. The gold film was patterned with an SiO{sub 2} mask. The lower electrode and sample were heated to 125 C. Under these conditions the etch was anisotropic with no undercutting and no redeposition of gold on the sample. Linewidths as small as 0.5 {mu}m and etch depths of 5 {mu}m were produced.
Linking Course-Embedded Assessment Measures and Performance on the Educational Testing Service Major Field Test in Business

Assessment of the business curriculum and its learning goals and objectives has become a major field of interest for business schools. The exploratory results of the authors’ model using a sample of 173 students show robust support for the hypothesis that high marks in course-embedded assessment on business-specific analytical skills positively affect performance on overall business disciplinary competence proxy by results in the Major Field Test in Business (MFT-B) examination, while controlling for SAT score, GPA, major, and gender differences. This particular result provides useful and relevant information to advance the assessment process in schools of business as a valuable tool to enhance the overall learning experience. The authors also found a marked difference across majors.
Male Bonding in Ming China

Making friends and making music are two fundamental activities through which people construct their personal identities and social relationships in their historical, cultural, and engendered times and spaces. To probe such activities as revealing facets of Ming history and culture, this essay presents three case studies of Ming men making music and bonding with male friends. To highlight the expressive, cultural, and social significance of music, this essay postulates that music catalyzed male bonding in Ming China by providing a tool, a site, and a process for Ming men to express and negotiate their masculine desires, identities, and roles.
Impaired Decision-Making Ability in Subjects With Alzheimer's Disease and Willingness to Participate in Research

OBJECTIVE: Ethical concerns persist over research participation of decisionally impaired persons, such as those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Such persons may be poor judges of the burdens and risks of specific research protocols. Since even decisionally incapacitated persons cannot be enrolled in studies against their objection, their preferences convey important ethical information. The authors examined the effects of cognitive and decisional impairment on willingness to participate in research among persons with Alzheimer’s disease. METHOD: Cognitive status, decision-making ability, and willingness to participate in four hypothetical research protocols of varying risk/benefit profiles were measured in 34 subjects with mild to mild/moderate Alzheimer’s disease and 14 healthy elderly comparison subjects. Univariate and multivariate methods were used to analyze the effects of impairment in cognitive and decision-making abilities on willingness to participate in research. RESULTS: There were no diffe...
Particle mixing and diffusion in the turbulent wake of cylinder arrays

The collection of 10 μ DOP droplets from an aerosol flow around an array of five circular cylinders in a turbulent air stream was measured. Axial and angled alignments of the target array, normal to the flow, were examined. Cylinder Reynolds numbers ranged from 1,300 to 5,100, and effective Stokes numbers from 0.50 to 1.58. A continuous line source turbulent diffusion model was used with the centerline velocity and concentration distributions to derive the eddy diffusion coefficients for momentum and particle concentration in the near wake of the cyinders. Angled collection results showed an optimal target alignment at the edge of the momentum wake of the lead cylinder. Further examination with an LDA system suggests the peak in collection is due to a particle velocity surplus in the wake.
Comparative Isotropic Shifts, Redox Potentials, and Ligand Binding Propensities of [1:3] Site-Differentiated Cubane-Type [Fe4Q4]2+ Clusters (Q = S, Se)

The [1:3] site-differentiated cubane-type clusters [Fe4Q4(LS3)Cl]2- (Q = S, Se; LS3 = 1,3,5-tris((4,6-dimethyl-3-mercaptophenyl)thio)-2,4,6-tris(p-tolylthio)benzenate(3−)) undergo substitution reactions at the unique iron site with a variety of ligands including thiolates, phenolates, cyclic triamines and a trisulfide, imidazoles, and tertiary phosphines. Reactions are readily followed because of the extreme sensitivity of isotropically shifted resonances to the nature of ligand L‘ in the product clusters [Fe4Q4(LS3)L‘]2-,-. Isotropic shifts and redox potentials are reported for over 40 clusters, including many cluster pairs differing only in the core chalcogenide atom. In this way, comparative properties of sulfide and selenide clusters can be elicited. It is shown that the larger isotropic shifts consistently observed for selenide clusters and dominantly contact in nature arise from larger magnetic susceptibilities, which indicate a lesser extent of antiferromagnetic coupling. It is further demonstrated...
Utilization of Speech and Language Pathologists (SLP) Services and Feeding Therapy Interventions in Late Preterm Infants (LPI)

Utilization of Speech and Language Pathologists (SLP) Services and Feeding Therapy Interventions in Late Preterm Infants (LPI)
Comment on the Theory and Measurement of Dynamic X-Efficiency

I. Introduction, 313. — II. The model, 314. — III. Dynamic X-efficiency, 316. — IV. Dynamic X-efficiency in India, 318. — V. The determinants of X-efficiency, 321. — VI. Conclusions, 324. — Appendix A, 325. — Appendix B, 325.
Examination of host genome for the presence of integrated fragments of Solenopsis invicta virus 1

A series of oligonucleotide primer pairs covering the entire genome of Solenopsis invicta virus 1 (SINV-1) were used to probe the genome of its host, S. invicta, for integrated fragments of the viral genome. All of the oligonucleotide primer sets yielded amplicons of anticipated size from cDNA created from an RNA template from SINV-1. However, no corresponding amplification was observed when genomic DNA (from 32 colonies of S. invicta) was used as template for the PCR amplifications. Host DNA integrity was verified by amplification of an ant-specific gene, SiGSTS1. The representation of fire ant colonies included both social forms, monogyne and polygyne, and those infected and uninfected with SINV-1. Furthermore, no amplification was observed from genomic DNA from ant samples collected from Argentina or the US. Thus, it appears that SINV-1 genome integration, or a portion therein, has not likely occurred within the S. invicta host genome.
Nonlinear internal waves over New Jersey's continental shelf

[1] Ship and mooring data collected off the coast of New Jersey are used to describe the nonlinear internal wave (NLIW) field and the background oceanographic conditions that formed the waveguide on the shelf. The subinertial, inertial, and tidal circulation are described in detail, and the background fluid state is characterized using the coefficients of the extended Korteweg–de Vries equation. The utility of this type of analysis is demonstrated in description of an amplitude-limited, flat wave. NLIWs observed over most of the month had typical displacements of −8 m, but waves observed from 17–21 August were almost twice as large with displacements near −15 m. During most of the month, wave packets occurred irregularly at a fixed location, and often more than one packet was observed per M2 tidal period. In contrast, the arrival times of the large-amplitude wave groups observed over 17–21 August were more closely phased with the barotropic tide. The time span in which the largest NLIWs were observed corresponded to neap barotropic conditions, but when the shoreward baroclinic energy flux was elevated. During the time of large NLIWs, near-inertial waves were a dominate contributor to the internal motions on the shelf and apparently regulated wave formation, as destructive/constructive modulation of the M2 internal tide by the inertial wavefield at the shelf break corresponded to stronger/weaker NLIWs on the shelf.
Implementation of health information technology to maximize efficiency of resource utilization in a geographically dispersed prenatal care delivery system

This study investigated the utilization of health information technology (HIT) to enhance resource utilization in a geographically dispersed tertiary care system with extensive outpatient and delivery services. It was initiated as a result of a systems change implemented after Hurricane Ike devastated southeast Texas. A retrospective database and electronic medical record review was performed, which included data collection from all patients evaluated 18 months prior (epoch I) and 18 months following (epoch II) the landfall of Hurricane Ike. The months immediately following the storm were omitted from the analysis, allowing time to establish a new baseline. We analyzed a total of 21,201 patients evaluated in triage at the University of Texas Medical Branch. Epoch I consisted of 11,280 patients and epoch II consisted of 9922 patients. Using HIT, we were able to decrease the number of visits to triage while simultaneously managing more complex patients in the outpatient setting with no clinically significant change in maternal or fetal outcome. This study developed an innovated model of care using constrained resources while providing quality and safety to our patients without additional cost to the health care delivery system.
UV Damage and Photoreactivation: Timing and Age are Everything {

Aquatic organisms, ranging from bacteria to fish, living in clear lakes are presently receiving damaging levels of UV radiation. Photoreactivation is a light-dependent mechanism by which some organisms deal with DNA damage caused by UV radiation. Yet, photoreactivation is a mechanism that confounds long-term predictive modeling of UV effects on the survival of these organisms. Here we show that a short-lived rotifer species, Asplanchna girodi, previously thought to have little to no photoreactivation, does indeed have a significant amount of it. The ability to undergo photoreactivation in A. girodi is dependent on age and becomes apparent only after several days of observation after UV exposure.
Measurements of Atmospheric Stability in the Mesopause Region at Starfire Optical Range, NM

Abstract The structure and seasonal variations of static (convective) and dynamic (shear) instabilities in the mesopause region (80– 105 km ) are examined using high-resolution wind and temperature data obtained with a Na lidar at the Starfire Optical Range, NM. The probabilities of static and dynamic instability are sensitive functions of N 2 / S 2 , where N is the buoyancy frequency and S is the total vertical shear in the horizontal winds. The mesopause region is most stable in summer when the mesopause is low, N is large and S is small. Monthly mean N 2 / S 2 varies from a maximum value of about 1.06 in mid-summer to a minimum of 0.68 in January. The annual mean values of N and S are, respectively, 0.021 s −1 and 23 ms −1 km −1 . The probabilities of static and dynamic instabilities are maximum in mid-winter when they average about 10% and 12%, respectively, and are minimum in summer when they average about 7% and 5%, respectively. The observations are generally consistent with theoretical predictions based on Gaussian models for the temperature and wind fluctuations induced by gravity waves. They also show that statically unstable conditions are generally preceded by dynamically unstable conditions. The instability probabilities vary considerably from night to night and the structure of the unstable regions are significantly influenced by atmospheric tides. Tides alone are usually not strong enough to induce instability but they can establish the environment for instabilities to develop. As the tidal temperature perturbations propagate downward, they reduce the stability on the topside of the positive temperature perturbation. Instabilities are then induced as gravity waves propagate through this layer of reduced static stability.
Effects of acute and chronic administration of Leu-enkephalin on cultured serotonergic neurons: evidence for opioids as inhibitory neuronal growth factors.

Leu-enkephalin, at concentrations between 18 μM and 1.8 pM, was administered in a single or daily dose to dissociated mesencephalic raphe cell cultures maintained for 3 or 5 days. Daily administration of Leu-enkephalin produced an inhibition of high affinity uptake of [3H]5-HT, a measure of serotonergic process outgrowth in cultures of fetal neurons. This inhibition was maximal at a dose of 18 nM in both 3 (59%, P < 0.05)- and 5 (38%, P < 0.05)-day cultures. The expression of uptake was consistently lower in 5-day cultures than in 3-day cultures at all concentrations tested. In marked contrast, a single dose of Leu-enkephalin at the time of plating stimulated uptake in 3- and 5-day cultures. Maximal stimulation was observed at 180 nM for both 3 (191%, P < 0.05)- and 5 (140%, P < 0.05)-day cultures. The results obtained after a single dose of the opioid may reflect a paradoxical stimulation probably due to a rebound mechanism of receptors since co-administration of bacitracin (0.5 mg/ml), an aminopeptidase inhibitor, resulted in inhibition of the uptake expression. Together these results indicate that Leu-enkephalin can function as an inhibitory regulatory growth factor for neuronal cultures when constant exposure to this opioid is maintained over time.
Evidence for Oxygen Binding at the Active Site of Particulate Methane Monooxygenase

Particulate methane monooxygenase (pMMO) is an integral membrane metalloenzyme that converts methane to methanol in methanotrophic bacteria. The enzyme consists of three subunits, pmoB, pmoA, and pmoC, organized in an α(3)β(3)γ(3) trimer. Studies of intact pMMO and a recombinant soluble fragment of the pmoB subunit (denoted as spmoB) indicate that the active site is located within the soluble region of pmoB at the site of a crystallographically modeled dicopper center. In this work, we have investigated the reactivity of pMMO and spmoB with oxidants. Upon reduction and treatment of spmoB with O(2) or H(2)O(2) or pMMO with H(2)O(2), an absorbance feature at 345 nm is generated. The energy and intensity of this band are similar to those of the μ-η(2):η(2)-peroxo-Cu(II)(2) species formed in several dicopper enzymes and model compounds. The feature is not observed in inactive spmoB variants in which the dicopper center is disrupted, consistent with O(2) binding to the proposed active site. Reaction of the 345 nm species with CH(4) results in the disappearance of the spectroscopic feature, suggesting that this O(2) intermediate is mechanistically relevant. Taken together, these observations provide strong new support for the identity and location of the pMMO active site.
Interventions to facilitate social interaction for young children with autism: review of available research and recommendations for educational intervention and future research.

The purpose of this paper is to review the knowledge available from aggregated research (primarily through 2000) on the characteristics of social interactions and social relationships among young children with autism, with special attention to strategies and tactics that promote competence or improved performance in this area. In its commissioning letter for the initial version of this paper, the Committee on Educational Interventions for Children with Autism of the National Research Council requested “a critical, scholarly review of the empirical research on interventions to facilitate the social interactions of children with autism, considering adult–child interactions (where information is available) as well as child–child interactions, and including treatment of [one specific question]: What is the empirical evidence that social irregularities of children with autism are amenable to remediation?” To do this, the paper (a) reviews the extent and quality of empirical literature on social interaction for young children with autism; (b) reviews existing descriptive and experimental research that may inform us of relations between autism and characteristics that support social development, and efforts to promote improved social outcomes (including claims for effectiveness for several specific types of intervention); (c) highlights some possible directions for future research; and (d) summarizes recommendations for educational practices that can be drawn from this research.
The Role of Heritage Camps in Identity Development Among Korean Transnational Adoptees: A Relational Dialectics Approach

This study contributes to the literature on transracial adoptions in two important ways: (1) it compares how parents and transnational adoptees negotiate racial and family identities through the use of heritage camps and (2) it informs that comparison with insights garnered from the theory of relational dialectics. The results, which are based on interviews with Korean-born children and Caucasian-American parents (matched parent-child pairs), suggest that parents utilized camps to both downplay their children's racial differences and give credence to their children's “unique” lives. Adoptees, in contrast, were not concerned with downplaying race; instead, they reported that although camps were fun, they did not impact their sense of identity significantly because they did not do enough to address the racial challenges they faced. These results suggest a potential disjuncture between parental purposes for utilizing heritage camps and the actual experiences of adoptees while at these camps. Moreover, they s...
Quantifying HLA-specific antibodies in patients undergoing desensitization.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW Two major desensitization protocols have been used to eliminate or reduce HLA antibodies to a level that allows transplantation with a low risk of antibody-mediated rejection (AMR). This review will focus on the antibody testing methods used to assess changes in the breadth and strength of antibody levels and the relative strength of donor HLA-specific antibodies (DHSAs). RECENT FINDINGS Correlations of solid-phase immunoassay (SPI) class I and II levels with the donor-specific T and B cross-match results have shown the acceptable levels of DHSA that correlate with a low risk for AMR. The DSHA levels determined by SPI correlate with cross-match results and with clinical outcome. Therefore, the results of either assay can be used to determine the risk of AMR and when treatment has reduced DSHA to a level safe for transplantation. Monitoring DSHA is important for guiding the number of treatments as well as the timing of additional treatments needed to achieve these acceptable levels. SUMMARY DSHA monitoring, in both protocols, uses the correlation of solid-phase antibody testing and the donor-specific cross-match to determine the efficacy of the protocol and when the acceptable level of DSHA is achieved permitting transplantation with minimal likelihood of AMR.