cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Integrating archaeology and ancient DNA analysis to address invasive species colonization in the Gulf of Alaska

The intentional and unintentional movement of plants and animals by humans has transformed ecosystems and landscapes globally. Assessing when and how a species was introduced are central to managing these transformed landscapes, particularly in island environments. In the Gulf of Alaska, there is considerable interest in the history of mammal introductions and rehabilitating Gulf of Alaska island environments by eradicating mammals classified as invasive species. The Arctic ground squirrel (Urocitellus parryii) is of concern because it affects vegetation and seabirds on Gulf of Alaska islands. This animal is assumed to have been introduced by historic settlers; however, ground squirrel remains in the prehistoric archaeological record of Chirikof Island, Alaska, challenge this timeline and suggest they colonized the islands long ago. We used 3 lines of evidence to address this problem: direct radiocarbon dating of archaeological squirrel remains; evidence of prehistoric human use of squirrels; and ancient DNA analysis of dated squirrel remains. Chirikof squirrels dated to at least 2000 years ago, and cut marks on squirrel bones suggested prehistoric use by people. Ancient squirrels also shared a mitochondrial haplotype with modern Chirikof squirrels. These results suggest that squirrels have been on Chirikof longer than previously assumed and that the current population of squirrels is closely related to the ancient population. Thus, it appears ground squirrels are not a recent, human-mediated introduction and may have colonized the island via a natural dispersal event or an ancient human translocation.
Nail disorders: A review

The nail is capable of only a limited number of pathologic responses. Some of these alterations, including idiopathic disorders, infections, tumors, and drug-induced reactions, are reviewed in the light of recent observations. Whenever possible, clinicopathologic correlation has been emphasized. Specific suggestions are made for diagnostic technics and treatment modalities.
Nonlinear deformations and nonlinear waves on charged and polarizable plane free surfaces

The calculation procedure and the main results of the analytical and experimental investigations on the influence of an electric field on dielectric liquids with free surfaces in a weakly nonlinear approximation are presented. It is shown that both local and periodic nonlinear deformations and waves can be formed on the free surface. The behavior of free surfaces with the electric field intensity being varied has been studied.
Correlating Resolving Power, Resolution, and Collision Cross Section: Unifying Cross-Platform Assessment of Separation Efficiency in Ion Mobility Spectrometry

Here we examine the relationship among resolving power (Rp), resolution (Rpp), and collision cross section (CCS) for compounds analyzed in previous ion mobility (IM) experiments representing a wide variety of instrument platforms and IM techniques. Our previous work indicated these three variables effectively describe and predict separation efficiency for drift tube ion mobility spectrometry experiments. In this work, we seek to determine if our previous findings are a general reflection of IM behavior that can be applied to various instrument platforms and mobility techniques. Results suggest IM distributions are well characterized by a Gaussian model and separation efficiency can be predicted on the basis of the empirical difference in the gas-phase CCS and a CCS-based resolving power definition (CCS/ΔCCS). Notably traveling wave (TWIMS) was found to operate at resolutions substantially higher than a single-peak resolving power suggested. When a CCS-based Rp definition was utilized, TWIMS was found to operate at a resolving power between 40 and 50, confirming the previous observations by Giles and co-workers. After the separation axis (and corresponding resolving power) is converted to cross section space, it is possible to effectively predict separation behavior for all mobility techniques evaluated (i.e., uniform field, trapped ion mobility, traveling wave, cyclic, and overtone instruments) using the equations described in this work. Finally, we are able to establish for the first time that the current state-of-the-art ion mobility separations benchmark at a CCS-based resolving power of >300 that is sufficient to differentiate analyte ions with CCS differences as small as 0.5%.
Social Media, Open Science, and Data Science Are Inextricably Linked

Should scientists use social media? Why practice open science? What is data science? Ten years ago, these phrases hardly existed. Now they are ubiquitous. Here I argue that these phenomena are inextricably linked and reflect similar underlying social and technological transformations.
The Death of Aztec Tenochtitlan, the Life of Mexico City. By Barbara Mundy. (Austin, TX: University of Texas Press, 2015. Pp. 288. $75.00.) : Book Review

Tracing the fortunes of the Aztec capital into the decades after the conquest of Mexico, the author of this book argues “the death of Tenochtitlan as an indigenous city is a myth” (3). Curiously at...
Weekend vs. weekday appendectomy for complicated appendicitis, effects on outcomes and operative approach.

We hypothesized that laparoscopic (LA) or open appendectomy (OA) outcomes in complicated appendicitis are associated with weekend vs. weekday procedure date. We queried the Kids’ Inpatient Database (1997–2012) for complicated (540.0, 540.1) appendicitis treated with LA or OA. Propensity score (PS)-matched analysis compared outcomes associated with weekend vs. weekday LA and OA. Overall, 103,501 cases of complicated appendicitis were identified. On 1:1 PS-matched analyses of complicated appendicitis, weekday OA had increased wound infection rates (odds ratio: 1.3) vs. weekend OA, p < 0.001. Weekend OA had higher pneumonia rates (1.4) and longer length of stay, but lower home healthcare requirement following discharge vs. weekday OA, p < 0.05. Weekend and weekday LA had no significant outcome differences. On a PS-matched comparison of appendectomies performed for complicated appendicitis on weekends and weekdays, procedure day is associated with different complication rates and resource utilization for OA. For LA, no weekend effect was noted for complicated appendicitis. To ensure the optimal patient care, prospective studies should be sought to identify causes of complications dependent on the day of procedure.
The Pontryagin Maximum Principle and Some of Its Applications

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the Pontryagin maximum principle and a few of its applications. An especially appealing feature of this principle from the control system designer's viewpoint is its utility in establishing certain properties of optimal controls with a minimum of mathematical manipulation. The chapter presents a few fundamental results of the maximum principle and discusses the way in which they may be exploited in control system studies. If an optimal control exists for a given problem, it must satisfy the conditions of the theorem relevant to the problem formulation. Satisfaction of the conditions of the maximum principle by an admissible control does not necessarily imply that the control is optimal. From the problem formulation and the statement of the theorems, it is clear that application of the maximum principle to a given problem will, in general, lead to a nonlinear, two-point boundary value problem. The chapter presents a particular example to show how the maximum principle can be used to effect a preliminary design.
Is there a limit to the size of the state? The scope conditions of Wagner's law

We investigate the relationship between economic development and the growth of the state by testing Wagner's Law. We begin with a general test, and find it does not hold in all cases: it breaks down at higher levels of development and in more recent time periods. This suggests that Wagner's law has specific scope conditions, beyond which states do not continue to grow as economies grow. We use a series of models to explore the temporal scope of Wagner's law and the point at which state growth may hit a ceiling. We conclude limits on the growth of the state are set by limits on the capacity of states to increase taxation. States can avoid this problem temporarily by running budget deficits, but eventually accumulated debt forces them to cut expenditures. Spending is tied to tax revenue like a rubber band, it can stretch only so far before being pulled back.
Toward a Theory of Fiscal Slack

Though the fiscal slack literature has advanced over the past decade, more research is needed for a systematic understanding of the determinants and uses of fiscal reserves at the local level. This paper reviews theory and empirical evidence on the determinants of municipal fiscal reserves offers a conceptual framework for analyzing fiscal reserves accumulation and tests a series of hypotheses using a panel of 2007–2012 financial data for 145 U.S. cities from 21 states. Generalized least squares models show that unassigned general fund balances and unrestricted net assets are positively associated with general fund surpluses in the previous year and with local household incomes, while not being related to measures of fiscal risk, revenue effort, and voter characteristics. Overall, the findings suggest a relatively stronger influence of the capacity to save than the need to save on local fiscal reserves.
Contextual centrality: going beyond network structure

Centrality is a fundamental network property that ranks nodes by their structural importance. However, the network structure alone may not predict successful diffusion in many applications, such as viral marketing and political campaigns. We propose contextual centrality, which integrates structural positions, the diffusion process, and, most importantly, relevant node characteristics. It nicely generalizes and relates to standard centrality measures. We test the effectiveness of contextual centrality in predicting the eventual outcomes in the adoption of microfinance and weather insurance. Our empirical analysis shows that the contextual centrality of first-informed individuals has higher predictive power than that of other standard centrality measures. Further simulations show that when the diffusion occurs locally, contextual centrality can identify nodes whose local neighborhoods contribute positively. When the diffusion occurs globally, contextual centrality signals whether diffusion may generate negative consequences. Contextual centrality captures more complicated dynamics on networks than traditional centrality measures and has significant implications for network-based interventions.
Sudden infant death and electrophysiology abnormalities in young children

Abstract Sex variation in sudden infant death syndrome has been researched and well-established. Over the past several decades with the advancement of molecular autopsies, a percentage of these sudden infant deaths has been found to have an underlying cardiac etiology for their arrests. In this chapter, we will explore these associations and better understand the interrelationship of sudden infant death, sex, and inherited arrhythmia syndromes. In addition, we will explore other cardiac arrhythmias, both bradyarrhythmias and tachyarrhythmias, that contribute to infant morbidity and mortality and the sex differences in these populations.
A Muscle Synergy Framework for Cross-Limb Reconstruction of Hand Muscle Activity Distal to a Virtual Wrist-Level Disarticulation

Currently, myoelectric prostheses lack dexterity and ease of control, in part because of inadequate schemes to extract relevant muscle features that can approximate muscle activation patterns that enable individuated dexterous finger motion. This project seeks to apply a novel algorithm pipeline that extracts muscle activation patterns from one limb, as well as from forearm muscles of the opposite limb, to predict muscle activation data of opposite limb intrinsic hand muscles, with the long-range goal of informing dexterous prosthetic control.
Cross-cultural examination of apparel online purchase intention: S-O-R paradigm

The purpose of this study was to conduct a cross-cultural comparison of the impact of e-service quality on consumers’ trust-behavioral intentions in online apparel shopping using a proposed theoret...
Gene Action Changes during Fertilization

Once the two types of gametes have completed the necessary maturation steps, they are capable of uniting to form a zygote and initiating embryogenesis. As may be suspected from the complexity just observed in the steps of generating the eggs and sperm, neither the union of those gametes nor the formation of the embryo is a simple event, with little variation from taxon to taxon; rather, both are as complex and varied as the major groups of organisms themselves. Yet a number of features common to all are found to pervade most of the sexually reproducing biotic world. Because of their abundance, size, ease of culture, synchronous division, and other favorable attributes, echinoderm eggs have provided the basis for the great bulk of the investigations into these phases of development, but studies on vertebrates and metaphytans have served to enrich the literature to a considerable extent. In the present chapter, the penetration of the sperm into the ovum and related events are followed, while the development of the early embryonic stages and then their subsequent differentiation are the respective provinces of the following two chapters.
Traffic Signals at New and Rebuilt Intersections

This paper examines the signalization question at new and rebuilt intersections. A specific case study from Columbia, Missouri is examined which shows substantial volume increases resulted on the minor street when signals were installed at a previously unsignalized intersection.
A Continuous Finite Element-Based, Discontinuous Finite Element Method for SN Transport

A class of discontinuous finite element methods (DFEMs) is proposed for spatially discretizing the SN transport equation in multidimensions. Mesh cells are first subdivided into simplexes. Equation...
Do administrators respond to their accountability ratings? The response of school budgets to accountability grades

Abstract This paper examines how school administrators reallocate resources to schools in response to marginal changes in accountability ratings. We study this through an analysis of budgetary changes for schools on the margin of distinct rating boundaries. By determining how close each school is to an accountability grade change we are able to conduct a regression discontinuity analysis on schools that are on either side of the sharp line that separates school ratings. If administrators care about accountability ratings on the margin we would expect to see changes in budgetary allocations that reward higher performing, or punish lower performing, schools. Using data in Texas from 1994 to 2002, we find evidence suggesting that schools with higher ratings received more funds than others, and the differential funds were targeted toward administration/training, counseling and extra-curricular activities.
Quasistatic Problems in Contact Mechanics

We describe some of our recent results concerning the modeling and analysis of quasistatic contact problems between a deformable body and a foundation. We concentrate mainly on frictional contact, and in some of the problems thermal effects and the wear of the contacting surfaces are also taken into account. We describe the physical processes involved, the mathematical models, their variational formulation and then present statements of our results. We conclude with a description of some unresolved problems.
A Model for Evaluating Supply Chain Risk

Companies are being forced to adopt practices and structures that will produce high quality, reliable, reasonably priced products with continuously shorter lead times. In order to meet the above goals, companies are utilizing flatter organizational structures and narrower supply chains. Breadth and depth reductions in a firm's supply base yields fewer alternatives in response to failures. The vulnerability of different supply chain structures is assessed and a model for designing robust solutions under risk is presented.
Biased model checking using flows

We describe two new state exploration algorithms, called biased-dfs and biased-bfs, that bias the search towards regions more likely to have error states using high level hints supplied by the user. These hints are in the form of priorities or markings describing which transitions are important and which aren't. We will then describe a natural way to mark the transitions using flows or partial orders on system events. Apart from being easy to understand, flows express succinctly the basic organization of a system. An advantage of this approach is that assigning priorities does not involve low level details of the system. Using flow-derived priorities we study the performance of the biased algorithms in the context of cache coherence protocols by comparing them against standard bfs, dfs and directed model checking. Preliminary results are encouraging with biased-bfs finding bugs about 3 times faster on average than standard bfs while returning shortest counter examples almost always. Biased-dfs on the other hand is couple of orders of magnitude faster than bfs and slightly faster than even standard dfs while being more robust than it.
Error analysis of MIMO monopulse for tracking radar

Recently a monopulse tracking radar system has been proposed which utilizes widely separated multiple-input multiple-output techniques. Such a system is advantageous because it can utilize frequency, spatial and polarization diversity to mitigate angular glint. The use of several transmitters increases the amount of energy in the radar reflections from the target and clutter, but the effect of this increased energy is unclear. This work studies the effects of the MIMO paradigm on the monopulse angle estimation error.
Matrix-isolated FeO, NiO, and CoO: Ground-state vibrational frequencies☆

Abstract The infrared vibrational spectra of the FeO, NiO, and CoO molecules have been observed in Ar matrices at 14 K. Frequencies for each of the isotopomers 54Fe16O, 54Fe18O, 56Fe16O, 56Fe18O, 58Ni16O, 58Ni18O, 60Ni16O, 60Ni18O, 59Co16O, and 59Co18O were measured. The derived vibrational constants are: w e = 880.02 ± 1.2 and w e x e = 3.47 ± 0.6 cm −1 for 56 Fe 16 O; w e = 837.61 ± 1.1 and w e x e = 5.92 ± 0.6 cm −1 for 58 Ni 16 O; and w e = 853.75 ± 1.2 and w e x e = 3.65 ± 0.6 cm −1 for 59 Co 16 O. These results support the assignment of 5Σ+ as the ground state of FeO, 3Σ− as the ground state of NiO, and 4Σ− as the ground state of CoO.
Can poison control data be used for pharmaceutical poisoning surveillance

Objective To determine the association between the frequencies of pharmaceutical exposures reported to a poison control center (PCC) and those seen in the emergency department (ED). Design A statewide population-based retrospective comparison of frequencies of ED pharmaceutical poisonings with frequencies of pharmaceutical exposures reported to a regional PCC. ED poisonings, identified by International Classification of Diseases, Version 9 (ICD-9) codes, were grouped into substance categories. Using a reproducible algorithm facilitated by probabilistic linkage, codes from the PCC classification system were mapped into the same categories. A readily identifiable subset of PCC calls was selected for comparison. Measurements Correlations between frequencies of quarterly exposures by substance categories were calculated using Pearson correlation coefficients and partial correlation coefficients with adjustment for seasonality. Results PCC reported exposures correlated with ED poisonings in nine of 10 categories. Partial correlation coefficients (r(p)) indicated strong associations (r(p)>0.8) for three substance categories that underwent large changes in their incidences (opiates, benzodiazepines, and muscle relaxants). Six substance categories were moderately correlated (r(p)>0.6). One category, salicylates, showed no association. Limitations Imperfect overlap between ICD-9 and PCC codes may have led to miscategorization. Substances without changes in exposure frequency have inadequate variability to detect association using this method. Conclusion PCC data are able to effectively identify trends in poisonings seen in EDs and may be useful as part of a pharmaceutical poisoning surveillance system. The authors developed an algorithm-driven technique for mapping American Association of Poison Control Centers codes to ICD-9 codes and identified a useful subset of poison control exposures for analysis. Language: en
Methods for Whole System Change in Public Organizations and Communities: An Overview of the Issues

In a world that is made up of interconnected systems, public leaders are learning that they must build commitment, alignment, and ownership among a broad group of individuals and groups in order to implement change. An increasing variety of processes and methods are being utilized for engaging an organization or community in whole system change. Large group methodologies, originally developed by organization development practitioners and theorists, are now gaining currency in public organizations and communities. At the same time, community organizers who successfully utilized confrontation and conflict-oriented methods in the civil rights, labor and other movements, are employing broadly participative, collaborative approaches by creating small group settings where citizens can share their views and using large group meetings to engage multiple stakeholders in community change. This special symposium explores and reflects on the rich mix of methods in use for whole system change in public organizations and communities.
Chronic chlorpromazine cholangiolitic hepatitis. Report of a case with immunofluorescent studies.

Summary A case of chlorpromazine-induced chronic pericholangiolitic hepatitis, simulating the clinical syndrome of xanthomatous biliary cirrhosis, was observed over a 16-month period. Hepatic biopsy tissue tested by immunofluorescence for bound globulin and studies of the patient's serum for tissuespecific circulating binding substances were negative. Although some cases of primary biliary cirrhosis may be causally related to chlorpromazine, this study suggests that dissimilar mechanisms are probably involved in the pathogenesis of these two diseases.
The Effect of Dexamethasone on Chronic Pulmonary Oxygen Toxicity in Infant Mice

The effect of dexamethasone (0.1, 1, and 5 mg/kg/d given subcutaneously from d 14-18) was tested in infant mice continuously exposed from birth to either humidified air or 80% oxygen. Dexamethasone significantly decreased lung wet wt (p less than 0.01), lung water (p less than 0.021), lung dry wt, protein, and DNA (p less than 0.001) in both air- and oxygen-exposed animals. Dexamethasone, however, had no effect on lung compliance measured after animals were killed on d 18. It also had no effect on the increase in the blood-air barrier thickness or decrease in the blood-air exchange surface area seen in the 80% oxygen-exposed mice. Dexamethasone decreased thymus gland wt (p less than 0.001), body wt gain (p less than 0.001), brain wt (p less than 0.001), and lung lymphocytes (p less than 0.05) in both air- and oxygen-exposed animals. The effect of 1 mg/kg and 5 mg/kg of the drug could not be differentiated. During the 4 d of drug administration, one air- and one oxygen-exposed animal died; both received 5 mg/kg/d of dexamethasone; microscopic and culture evidence of infection was not found. If dexamethasone causes similar effects in human infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia, it should be used with great caution even for short-term clinical management.
Vacuum laser acceleration

Abstract : The purpose of this communication is to comment on and discuss laser acceleration of electrons in vacuum. In particular, we will: (1) critique the recent paper by C. M. Haaland, titled "Laser Electron Acceleration in Vacuum," (2) discuss some general features and characteristics of laser acceleration in vacuum, and (3) propose a vacuum laser acceleration concept called the "vacuum beat wave accelerator".
Sub-parts per billion detection of isoprene using a reduction gas detector with a portable gas chromatograph

Abstract Isoprene, a biogenic hydrocarbon emitted from vegetation, has been detected at sub-ppb levels, using a commercially available reduction gas detector (RGD) with an isothermal, portable gas chromatograph. For 1 ml samples, a detection limit of 300–500 parts per trillion (over an order of magnitude less than the traditional gas chromatography-flame ionization detection technique [GC-FID]) was achieved. The detector response was linear up to 500 ppb. This technique (GC-RGD) is compared with GC-FID measurements in studies of ambient isoprene mixing ratios within and above an oak forest in northeastern U.S.A. Applications of laboratory studies of the mechanism of isoprene production at the leaf level are also discussed.
Study of the packing behavior of radial compression columns for preparative chromatography

The behavior of the packing of radial compression preparative columns (17.5 × 7.5 cm) was studied using C18 silica IMPAQ as the stationary phase and water—methanol solutions as the mobile phase. The retention volumes of phenol and cresol and the efficiency of their peaks were repeatedly measured on three different columns, over several hundred hours, during which repeated water—methanol gradient runs were conducted. No significant changes in the retention factors and the column efficiency were observed during the testing period. The effects of the mobile phase temperature and of the radial compression pressure on the column efficiency were also studied. The external porosity and the permeability of the packing were found to decrease slowly with increasing compression pressure. Finally, a set of experiments were performed to trigger the formation of channels and to show their possible repair by applying elevated radial compression pressures.
Quantitative density visualization in a transonic rotor

The flow in a two foot diameter transonic rotor has been visualized using a fluorescent gas, 2, 3 butanedione, as a tracer. The technique allows the three dimensional flow to be imaged as a set of distinct planes. Quantitative static density maps can be obtained after correcting the images for distortion and nonlinearities introduced by the illumination and imaging systems. The visualized flow is compared to data taken simultaneously by high frequency pressure transducers near the rotor entrance and exit planes.
Reclaiming rhetorical democracy: George Grote's defense of Gleon and the Athenian demagogues

Abstract George Grote's History of Greece (1846–56) was instrumental in overturning the traditional view of Athens as an oppressive and corrupt society. In particular, Grote's rewriting of the story of the Athenian demagogue Cleon illustrates the difficulties he faced in attempting to argue for the legitimacy of popular government and popular rhetoric. His defense of Cleon—and more broadly, his defense of rhetorical democracy—helped to challenge the ascendancy of rhetoric as belles lettres and to stimulate the modern revival of Athenian popular rhetoric.
Explicit solutions of the viscous model vorticity equation

Explicit solutions are found for the viscous version of the model vorticity equation recently proposed by P. Constantin, P. D. Lax, and A. Majda: where H(w) is the Hilbert transform of w, and v is a positive constant. Various properties of these solutions, including the fact that they blow up after a finite time, are discussed.
Application of laser engineered net shaping (LENS) to manufacture porous and functionally graded structures for load bearing implants.

Fabrication of net shape load bearing implants with complex anatomical shapes to meet desired mechanical and biological performance is still a challenge. In this article, an overview of our research activities is discussed focusing on application of Laser Engineered Net Shaping (LENS™) toward load bearing implants to increase in vivo life time. We have demonstrated that LENS™ can fabricate net shape, complex metallic implants with designed porosities up to 70 vol.% to reduce stress-shielding. The effective modulus of Ti, NiTi, and other alloys was tailored to suit the modulus of human cortical bone by introducing 12–42 vol.% porosity. In addition, laser processed porous NiTi alloy samples show a 2–4% recoverable strain, a potentially significant result for load bearing implants. To minimize the wear induced osteolysis, unitized structures with functionally graded Co–Cr–Mo coating on porous Ti6Al4V were also made using LENS™, which showed high hardness with excellent bone cell–materials interactions. Finally, LENS™ is also being used to fabricate porous, net shape implants with a functional gradation in porosity characteristics.
Use of the Acceptance Scale to Measure Attitudes of Kindergarten-Age Children

The Acceptance Scale for Kindergartners (ASK) was developed to assess the attitudes of kindergarten-age children toward children with disabilities. It was administered to 188 kindergarten children,...
Sex and Age Group Specific Changes in Body Condition of Red-tailed Hawks in Central Nebraska

ABSTRACT The central plains and the Platte River Valley of Nebraska are recognized as important winter habitat for many raptor species, but few studies have evaluated the ecology or physiology of birds of prey wintering in the region. The purpose of our study was to collect morphological data from Red-tailed Hawks (Buteo jamaicensis) occupying the study area during non-breeding months to better understand the sex ratios and potential changes in body condition of raptors in central Nebraska. Female Red-tailed Hawks were trapped significantly more often than males (χ2 = 11.560, df = 1, P < 0.01), and data suggest that the population consists of a larger number of adult females followed by juvenile females and adult males, respectively. No juvenile males were captured during the study. Stratifying the data by sex and age group indicate that adult female Red-tailed Hawks significantly increase body mass (F = 13.049, df = 1, 13, P = 0.004) over time, and normalization of data by animal size to form a...
Adjustable bandwidth fir filters: From design to implementation on the labview SW/HW platform

Digital filters with adjustable bandwidths controlled by one or two parameters are desirable in many applications. This paper treats the design and implementation of linear phase Finite Impulse Response (FIR) adjustable bandwidth filters using the Farrow structure which employs several basis filters in parallel. The complete development process from basis-filter design optimization to FPGA hardware implementation is carried out exclusively in the LabVIEW graphical programming environment. The intuitive structure of a graphical programming solution is easy to master for this end-to-end filter design and implementation task.
Nitrite intoxication: Protection with methylene blue and oxygen

Abstract The lethal effects of sodium nitrite can be antagonized by the administration of various combinations of methylene blue, oxygen, and hyperbaric oxygen. The potency ratios were compared in groups of mice pretreated with methylene blue (2 or 20 mg/kg) and/or oxygen (1 ATA or 2 ATA). Hyperbaric oxygen (2 ATA) was found to be more effective than oxygen (1 ATA) or air with or without methylene blue at 2 mg/kg. When the dose of methylene blue was increased to 20 mg/kg, oxygen (1 ATA) was more effective than air, but hyperbaric oxygen was no more efficacious than oxygen (1 ATA).
Cryogenic crazing of crystalline, isotactic polypropylene

Abstract Stress crazing is studied in crystalline, isotactic polypropylene (PP) at liquid nitrogen temperatures, in smectic PP as well as in monoclinic PP having spherulites of diameter 50–100 μm. The crazes are quite different in these two cases. In smectic PP they are extremely long, often traversing the entire width (0.5 cm) of the sample, straight, perpendicular to the stress direction, and generally very similar to crazes in glassy, amorphous polymers. In monoclinic PP, crazing occurs not along the boundaries between spherulites but along spherulite diameters that are only roughly perpendicular to the stress direction. In general, the length of a craze equals the spherulite diameter, although there is a tendency for crazes to run from one spherulite center to the next. A dramatic effect of gaseous environment on mechanical properties and the extent of crazing is observed. Gases near their condensation temperatures act as crazing agents in the sense that they reduce the stress required to promote crazing up to twofold as compared to the crazing stress in vacuum; also they increase the plastic strain due to crazing about tenfold in smectic, and somewhat less in monoclinic PP. The action of the gas is due to two mechanisms. First, the adsorbed gas reduces the surface energy of the polymer and so eases the creation of new surface in the holes and voids of the craze. Second, the gas becomes highly absorbed at the tip of an incidental flaw or of an existing craze, since these are regions of high dilatant stress; hence the gas acts as a plasticizer easing the flow involved in the nucleation and growth of the craze.
Optical sensing as a means of monitoring health of multicomputer networks

The goal of this work is to perform physical fault detection on a multicomputer by using interferometric optical sensors to measure applied strain on interconnection data links. The main interest in research of this sort is to provide reliable optical interconnections between computers that may operate in harsh environments. An example of such a system would be found on an aircraft or other military vehicle which, by nature of its function, is expected to undergo some form of structural trauma in its operating lifetime. This work will examine an application of the problem of dynamic fault tolerance, and provide an example of a practical solution. Damage will be inflicted upon a data link of an operational hybrid communication/sensing multicomputer and detected with the use of optical sensors. It will be shown that the multicomputer can reroute all communications functions and reallocate computational tasks around this faulty data link with no loss of information or functionality. It will also be shown that the multicomputer can accurately convert the output of an extrinsic Fabry-Perot interferometer into a strain value and compare this calculated value to a predetermined maximum strain value, by use of an algorithm that continuously calculates strain based on the sinusoidal output of the interferometric sensor
HIV interventions to reduce HIV/AIDS stigma: a systematic review.

We reviewed the literature to determine the effectiveness of HIV-related interventions in reducing HIV/AIDS stigma. Studies selected had randomized controlled trial (RCT), pretest–posttest with a non-randomized control group, or pretest–posttest one group study designs in which HIV-related interventions were being evaluated, and in which HIV/AIDS stigma was one of the outcomes being measured. A checklist was used to extract data from accepted studies, assess their internal validity, and overall quality. Data were extracted from 19 studies, and 14 of these studies demonstrated effectiveness in reducing HIV/AIDS stigma. Only 2 of these 14 effective studies were considered good studies, based on quality, the extent to which the intervention focused on reducing HIV/AIDS stigma, and the statistics reported to demonstrate effectiveness. Future studies to reduce HIV/AIDS stigma could improve by designing interventions that pay greater attention to internal validity, use validated HIV/AIDS stigma instruments, and achieve both statistical and public health significance.
The development of intramedullary cavitation following spinal cord injury: an experimental pathological study.

Most authors presently agree that in motor neurone lesions sphincterotomy provides a reliable means of alleviating chronic retention due to detrusor-sphincter dysfunction. But, although early results may be very encouraging, one should consider that some patients are prone to fibro-sclerotic restenosis. Regular annual check-ups are therefore essential in order to avoid relevant complications.
A Note Concerning the Coriolis Contribution to the Energy of a Symmetric Polyatomic Molecule

By a third-order perturbation calculation it is shown that the degenerate Coriolis interaction term in the vibration-rotation energy of a symmetric polyatomic molecule should be written $\ensuremath{\mp}2\ensuremath{\Sigma}{t}^{}{\ensuremath{\zeta}}_{t}{l}_{t}K{C}_{v}$ rather than $\ensuremath{\mp}2\ensuremath{\Sigma}{t}^{}{\ensuremath{\zeta}}_{t}{l}_{t}K{C}_{e}$, ${C}_{e}$ being equal to ($\frac{h}{8{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{2}I_{\mathrm{zz}}^{}{}_{}{}^{(e)}c}$) and ${C}_{v}={C}_{e}\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\Sigma}{t}^{}(\frac{{v}_{t}+{g}_{t}}{2}){\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{t}$, ${\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{t}$ being a constant ${\ensuremath{\gamma}}_{t}+\ensuremath{\Sigma}{{t}^{\ensuremath{'}}{\ensuremath{\sigma}}^{\ensuremath{'}}}^{}\frac{\ensuremath{\zeta}_{t\ensuremath{\sigma},{t}^{\ensuremath{'}}{\ensuremath{\sigma}}^{\ensuremath{'}}}^{}{}_{}{}^{2}(3{\ensuremath{\omega}}_{t}+{\ensuremath{\omega}}_{{t}^{\ensuremath{'}}})}{(\ensuremath{\omega}_{t}^{}{}_{}{}^{2}\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\omega}_{{t}^{\ensuremath{'}}}^{}{}_{}{}^{2})}$ where ${\ensuremath{\gamma}}_{t}$ is the usual correction term of the effective reciprocal of inertia.
1,3-di(methythio)-2,2,4,4-tetramethylbicyclo[1.1.0]butane

Abstract 1,3-Di(methylthio)-2,2,4,4-tetramethylbicyclo[1.1.0]butane has been synthesized by two alternate routes and has been characterized by single crystal X-ray crystallography. This report corrects earlier, erroneous discussions of the title compound which have appeared in the literature.
A Framework for Model Checking of Large Scale Disease Spread Models

The state explosion problem in model checking is a challenge for large scale models of disease spread. An efficient formalism is created for a disease spread model. Two model reduction mechanisms are described for efficiency in model checking. Queries by variants of temporal logic on the formalism are also stated.
Additive preconditioning and aggregation in matrix computations

We combine our novel SVD-free additive preconditioning with aggregation and other relevant techniques to facilitate the solution of a linear system of equations and other fundamental matrix computations. Our analysis and experiments show the power of our algorithms, guide us in selecting most effective policies of preconditioning and aggregation, and provide some new insights into these and related subjects. Compared to the popular SVD-based multiplicative preconditioners, our additive preconditioners are generated more readily and for a much larger class of matrices. Furthermore, they better preserve matrix structure and sparseness and have a wider range of applications (e.g., they facilitate the solution of a consistent singular linear system of equations and of the eigenproblem).
Lung cancer and asbestos exposure : Asbestosis is not necessary

Recent commentaries on the issue of asbestos-related lung cancer have raised important points. One major question is whether lung cancer can be attributed to asbestos exposure in the absence of asbestosis. This review attempts to place the debate in the proper context for establishing causation. Relevant epidemiologic and pathologic studies are analyzed, as well as the scientific basis for each position in the debate. The assertion that asbestosis must be present in order to attribute a lung cancer to asbestos exposure does not meet accepted standards for establishing causation. In addition, some evidence has been incorrectly cited in support of this position. This discussion can benefit from clearer definitions of asbestosis, a more thorough evaluation of the available scientific information, and a proper context for determining causation. This review of the available evidence indicates that lung cancers can occur as a result of asbestos exposure, in the absence of clinical or histologic asbestosis. Causation in an individual should be assessed by considering duration of exposure, intensity of exposure, and appropriate latency.
Rural Perceptions of Growth Management Legislation on Rural Economic Development: Welcoming Comrade or Hostile Foe?

Statewide growth regulations are often a site for conflict over appropriate land use and the interests it should serve. Perceptions of environmental policies’ effects on local economic development provide the foundation for tension between environmental quality and economic growth. Rural perceptions are of particular importance due to the economic hardships that have hit many rural communities. I examine rural leaders’ perceptions of growth management policies with respect to achieving economic development. Results suggest that several community leaders view state growth management legislation as negatively affecting the implementation of outside industry or business as well as the sustaining of livestock farms. Interviewed leaders do not perceive the presence of an urban growth boundary to have much of an impact on economic development. Rather, they perceive certain characteristics surrounding the amendment of the urban growth boundary, such as lengthy timelines and county approval, to have the most impa...
Which near–surface atmospheric variable drives air–sea temperature differences over the global ocean?

[1] This paper investigates the influence of atmospheric variables (net solar radiation, wind speed, precipitation and vapor mixing ratio, all of which are at or near the sea surface) on the annual and seasonal cycle of near surface air minus sea surface temperature (Tair–Tsst) over the global ocean. The importance order of these variables is discussed using several statistical methods and two global data sets. After demonstrating that neither Tair nor Tsst exhibit any skill in determining difference between the two, a regression tree model (the so-called Generalized, Unbiased, Interaction Detection and Estimation (GUIDE) algorithm) is used to investigate influences of the atmospheric variables mentioned above in regulating Tair–Tsst. Overall, net solar radiation (sum of net shortwave and longwave radiation) at the sea surface is found to be the most important variable in driving the seasonal cycle of Tair–Tsst over the global ocean when the nonlinear relationship between Tair–Tsst and atmospheric variables is taken into account. This is true for both annual and seasonal (May through August) or monthly (November and December) timescales. Similar to the GUIDE results, a simple linear regression analysis also confirms that the net solar radiation explains most of the variance in the seasonal cycle of Tair–Tsst over most (≈50%) of the global ocean. The importance of the net solar radiation in controlling Tair–Tsst is even more significant in the regions surrounding the Kuroshio and the Gulf Stream current systems. The results presented in this paper have various implications for air–sea interaction and ocean mixed layer studies.
Computation of the transport of surface‐water due to the wind‐system over the North Atlantic

One of the most important forces which maintains the circulation of the ocean is that exerted directly on its surface by the wind. It is even assumed by some that the frictional force of the wind is the primary cause of most of the large-scale currents of the open ocean. Taking advantage of the recent improvements in the theoretical machinery necessary for computing the direct effects of the wind, I have attempted to compute one of these effects on a large scale, namely, the transports of the drift-currents resulting from the mean wind-distribution over the North Atlantic.
Chemical structure of technetium-99m-lebeled N-(2,6-dimethylphenylcarbamoylmethyl)-iminodiacetic acid (Tc-HIDA)

Abstract The chemical structure of Tc-HIDA was determined by synthesizing Tc-HIDA using Tc-99 and Tc-99 m TcO−4, C-14 HIDA and Sn-113 Sn+2 all of known specific activitiy. Tc-HIDA was separated from HIDA and Sn-HIDA by HPLC on a reverse phase column. The identity of Tc-HIDA with and without carrier Tc-99 was confirmed by chromatographic and tissue distribution studies. The oxidation state of the technetium was measured by titration of the excess stannous ion with iodine. Kinetic studies were used to preclude the occurrence of two technetium atoms in the same molecule of HIDA. The Tc-HIDA was found to exist in solution as sodium bis-[N-(2,6-dimethylphenylcarbamoylmethyl)iminodiaceto] technetate (III). Neither stannous nor stannic ion was found in the final radiopharmaceutical. Such knowledge of the chemical structure of radiopharmaceuticals is necessary before their in vivo stability and distribution can be predicted with any degree of certainty.
The nasofacial interpolated flap in reconstruction of the nasal ala.

Background: Skin cancer frequently involves the nasal alae, the surgical reconstruction of which may be challenging if their margins, contours, and surface texture are to be preserved. Objective: Our purpose was to describe our experience with a nasofacial interpolated flap in which a temporary bridging pedicle is used to transpose skin from the nasofacial and melolabial sulci to an alar defect. Methods: The nasofacial interpolated flap was used in eight patients to reconstruct partial-thickness alar wounds after excision of a basal cell carcinoma. Results: The functional and cosmetic outcome was excellent in five patients and is likely to be good in two others who had postoperative fullness of the flap inset. A poor result was seen in one patient, a heavy smoker, who healed with an atrophic scar at the margin of the primary defect. Conclusion: In alar wounds for which a full-thickness skin graft would provide inadequate bulk, the nasofacial interpolated flap transposes skin of excellent color and textural match without blunting the nasofacial sulcus or the alar groove.
A fast parallel quicksort algorithm

Abstract In this paper we describe a fast parallel quicksort algorithm for a Concurrent-Read Concurrent-Write (CRCW) shared memory computer. The algorithm sorts n numbers in expected O ( log n ) time using n processors.
Re-visioning the evolutionary tree: A map-based visualization for communicating evolution

This paper describes a study that mobilizes digital media to address some of the limitations of the traditional “tree of life” as a visual metaphor for evolution. Visual metaphors play a powerful role in science communication, particularly when scientific concepts are conceptually challenging. By “translating” formal scientific models into metaphoric language and imagery, technical communicators can facilitate the diffusion of scientific ideas into broader society. In this study, cognitive learning theory provided a framework to examine the conceptual affordances of tree-based visualizations, identify areas of metaphoric limitation, and organize a new map-based visual metaphor to address these limitations. Next, the map metaphor was used to guide the construction of an interactive Web-based visualization called a “dynamic evolutionary map.” Nineteen biology novices then used the visualization to answer questions about evolution. The study results suggest that this visualization communicates some conceptual affordances differently than tree visualizations, thus providing preliminary empirical support to theoretical predictions. Finally, results are used to support suggestions for future development of similar visualizations.