cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Love, Sex, and Happiness in Education: The Russells, Beacon Hill School, and Teaching “Sex-Love” in England, 1927-1943

T h e s T o r y o f e a r l y T w e n T i e T h c e n T u r y sex education campaigns has generally been told as a narrative of fear about unruly impulses, innocent children, promiscuity, contamination, and illness. In this story, doctors, educators, social purity activists, politicians, and other intellectuals raise haunting specters of venereal disease, masturbation, prostitution, and various perversions. Historians have rightly pointed to the predominance of abstinence and social purity agendas that have given sex education a conservative character, highlighting the dangers rather than the pleasures of sex. However, this is not that story. In the focus on how sex education has warned children about sex, another story has been eclipsed, namely, the story of how “modern” educators also looked to sex education to facilitate normative heterosexual love. Some “modern” educators sought to nurture, if cautiously, and direct rather than stifle and suppress children’s sexual
THE ROLE OF ECOSYSTEM ANALYSIS IN RISK ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMICALS

ABSTRACT This study relates the elements of quantitative risk assessment to ecosystem modeling. The regulation of existing and proposed chemical substances either implies or requires that hazards be identified so that appropriate safeguards can be instituted. The paper begins by reviewing the components of risk analysis and continues by outlining the way the exposure levels and system response patterns are introduced to form the basis of the analysis. The solutions of the equations for chemical propagation and effects give a measure of risk in a hypothetical sample analysis of an aquatic ecosystem. It is concluded that computer simulation techniques can be applied to chemical risk assessment for ecosystems for cases where fate data are available.
Temperature Dependence of Dissolved Organic Matter Fluorescence.

The temperature dependence of organic matter fluorescence apparent quantum yields (Φf) was measured for a diverse set of organic matter isolates (i.e., marine aquatic, microbial aquatic, terrestrial aquatic, and soil) in aqueous solution and for whole water samples to determine apparent activation energies (Ea) for radiationless decay processes of the excited singlet state. Ea was calculated from temperature dependent Φf data obtained by steady-state methods using a simplified photophysical model and the Arrhenius equation. All aquatic-derived isolates, all whole water samples, and one soil-derived fulvic acid isolate exhibited temperature dependent Φf values, with Ea ranging from 5.4 to 8.4 kJ mol–1 at an excitation wavelength of 350 nm. Conversely, soil humic acid isolates exhibited little or no temperature dependence in Φf. Ea varied with excitation wavelength in most cases, typically exhibiting a decrease between 350 and 500 nm. The narrow range of Ea values observed for these samples when compared to...
The Utilization of Carbon and Nitrogen Compounds by Ustilago Zeae

This study is concerned with the growth of Ustilago zeae in synthetic media containing various sources of carbon and nitrogen. Four monosporial cultures of U. zeae, all derived from a single promyc...
Delineating the ecological and geographic edge of an opportunist: The American black bear exploiting an agricultural landscape

Abstract Determining habitat requirements for the persistence of a wildlife population is especially difficult for wide-ranging, opportunist species. The American black bear (Ursus americanus) is one such species that is re-colonizing parts of its former range and colonizing new geographic regions. We sought to predict the potential for further westward expansion of a population of black bears that has recently colonized a primarily agricultural (>50%) landscape with small fragmented islands of forest (∼17%) at the edge of its range in northwestern Minnesota. We delineated critical aspects of bears’ spatial ecology by examining size and habitat composition of home ranges of GPS-collared individuals (n = 38; 75 bear-years; 2007–2013) at both annual and weekly temporal scales. We measured food production by habitat type, and used a moving window equivalent to a weekly home range (WHR) to quantify and map habitat suitability across the region, considering temporal variations in observed natural forage availability. Male bears used expansive home ranges on an annual basis (largest recorded for this species; 95% KDE h-ref: X ¯ = 834 km2, 95% CI = 596–1072 km2); females traveled less, but still had relatively large home ranges (95% KDE h-ref: X ¯ = 91 km2, 95% CI = 55–128 km2). Summer and fall WHRs contracted when they included higher percentages of oak forest or crop cover (key foods), and expanded with a higher density of roads and higher percentage of non-consumable agriculture and wetlands (i.e., unused areas embedded in the home range). Caloric density had the strongest negative influence on WHR size. We predict males can expand farther westward by virtue of their adaptable, sprawling home ranges that can encompass an array of resources, and their inclination to tolerate and exploit landscapes with few other bears and patchy vegetative cover, embedded with agriculture, roads, and people. Females are more limited to woodlots with natural foods and less apt to be located in open treeless expanses. However, we observed wide year-to-year variations in food production and found that during the most favorable conditions, females could be enticed farther westward, although it is unclear whether they would settle in an environment with even less tree cover than in the current extremity of their range.
Privacy and security guidelines for humanitarian work with undocumented migrants

Based on preliminary work with humanitarian organizations working with migrants in the US, we propose a set of Privacy Guidelines for Humanitarian Information Activities (HIA), in the context of undocumented migration. We discuss both technology and human risks in HIA, the limitations of privacy self-management, and the need for clear guidelines for HIA, such as the ones we tentatively suggest here.
Biomass pyrolysis in fully-developed turbulent riser flow

Abstract This work presents a numerical study of biomass pyrolysis in turbulent riser flow. Eulerian–Lagrangian simulations of unbounded sedimenting gas-solid flows are performed to isolate the effects of particle clustering on the production of syngas and tar. This configuration provides a framework to resolve the relevant length- and time-scales associated with thermal, chemical and multiphase processes taking place in the fully-developed region of a circulating fluidized bed riser. A four-step kinetic scheme is employed to model the devolatilization of biomass particles and secondary cracking of tar. Two-way coupling between the phases leads to clusters of sand particles that generate and sustain gas-phase turbulence and transport biomass particles. Neglecting the heterogeneity caused by clusters was found to lead to a maximum over-prediction of syngas yield of 33%. Further, it was found that two-dimensional simulations over-predict the level of clustering, resulting in an under-prediction of syngas and tar yields.
How to articulate the multiple value dimensions of ecosystem services? Insights from implementing the PArticulatES framework in a coastal social-ecological system in Portugal

Abstract Ecosystem services is a value-laden concept, encompassing multiple legitimate views, value systems and potential controversies. On the other hand, it offers a platform to promote participation and to search for new paths of collaborative action. Based on these assumptions this work aims to answer the question “how to structure a participatory process for the integration and articulation of multiple values of ecosystem services to inform decision-making processes in a coastal social-ecological system?”. This paper outlines a three-stage participatory framework (PArticulatES) that was developed to scope, conceptualize and articulate ecosystem services values. The PArticulatES framework was piloted in a coastal and marine protected area: the Arrabida Natural Park in Portugal. The pilot test results and participants’ evaluation on the process allowed the identification of valuable lessons and critical factors for the success of the implementation of the framework. The proposed three-stage process was able to provide a coherent platform for engaging stakeholders in ecosystem services scoping, assessment and decision support. Key outcomes regarding knowledge sharing and co-creation are conducive to social learning about ecosystem services. Ultimately, this framework offers structured guidelines for teasing out multiple value dimensions, which may be applied to different types of decision processes in coastal and marine ecosystems. However, some challenges may arise when implementing this framework. Those include a dependency on a steering team with adequate skills and resources to support each process stage, a sustained level of participants’ engagement throughout the sequence of events, and a commitment from decision-makers’ regarding the consideration of process outcomes.
Synthesis, structure, and properties of the new intermetallic compounds SrPdTl2 and SrPtTl2.

The title compounds have been synthesized and characterized structurally and through property measurements and electronic structure calculations. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction analyses reveal that the two compounds crystallize in an orthorhombic system, MgCuAl 2 type (Cmcm, Z = 4, a = 4.486(2), 4.491(3) A, b = 10.991(5), 10.990(6) A, c = 8.154(1), 8.140(4) A for SrPdTl 2 , and SrPtTl 2 , respectively). The structure can be directly derived from that of hexagonal SrTl 2 (CaIn 2 type) in which four-bonded thallium atoms in shared puckered hexagons generate tunnels. The Pd or Pt is encapsulated (with symmetry reduction) on the side of each tunnel within a distorted trigonal prism. Band structure calculations (EHTB) on both SrTl 2 and SrPdTl 2 demonstrate the effects of the conversion, with strong Pd-TI bonding and appreciable electron transfer from Tl to Pd. Property measurements show that SrPdTl 2 is metallic, as expected.
Comparison of Lengthening Temporalis Myoplasty and Free-Gracilis Muscle Transfer for Facial Reanimation in Children

BACKGROUND Lengthening temporalis myoplasty (LTM) and cross-face nerve graft with free gracilis muscle transfer (CFNG-FGMT) are the 2 most common procedures used to restore dynamic facial animation and improve facial symmetry. There has not been direct comparison or consensus. Here, the authors compare our experience with respect to muscle activity, symmetry, and excursion. METHODS A retrospective review was performed of patients with facial palsy who had CFNG-FGMT or LTM from 2008 to 2016 at a single institution. Postoperative surface EMG was recorded at maximum open smile. Normal and paralyzed sides of the face were analyzed with Facial Assessment by Computer Evaluation software. Commissure excursion and symmetry was assessed. RESULTS Six patients with LTM and 10 with CFNG-FGMT met inclusion criteria. Muscle activity was 1st identified in LTM patients after 3 months (47.42 mV, P < 0.001) and CFNG-FGMT patients after 3 months (28.30 mV, P < 0.001) compared to immediate postoperative period. Relative to preoperative excursion, there was significant increase of 3.33 mm in commissure excursion seen at the 0 to 3 month period for LTM patients (P = 0.04). Commisure excursion for CFNG-FGMT was seen later, in the 3- to 6-month postoperative period (4.01, P = 0.024). During smile, CFNG-FGMT patients had better symmetry than unilateral LTM patients. In bilateral LTM patients, there was no significant change in symmetry. CONCLUSION Dynamic facial animation improved in both surgical groups. The LTM demonstrates a faster rate of muscle recruitment compared to CFNG-FGMT. After 3 months, both LTM and CFNG-FGMT groups had comparable excursions. A decision-making algorithm is presented.
Cerebrospinal fluid alterations following endoscopic third ventriculostomy with choroid plexus cauterization: a retrospective laboratory analysis of two tertiary care centers

This study sought to determine the previously undescribed cytologic and metabolic alterations that accompany endoscopic third ventriculostomy with choroid plexus cauterization (ETV/CPC). Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were collected from infant patients with hydrocephalus at the time of index ETV/CPC and again at each reintervention for persistent hydrocephalus. Basic CSF parameters, including glucose, protein, and cell counts, were documented. A multivariable regression model, incorporating known predictors of ETV/CPC outcome, was constructed for each parameter to inform time-dependent normative values. A total of 187 infants were treated via ETV/CPC for hydrocephalus; initial laboratory values were available for 164 patients. Etiology of hydrocephalus included myelomeningocele (53, 32%), intraventricular hemorrhage of prematurity (43, 26%), aqueductal stenosis (24, 15%), and others (44, 27%). CSF parameters did not differ significantly with age or etiology. Glucose levels initially drop below population average (36 to 32 mg/dL) post-operatively before slowly rising to normal levels (42 mg/dL) by 3 months. Dramatically elevated protein levels post-ETV/CPC (baseline of 59 mg/dL up to roughly 200 mg/dL at 1 month) also normalized over 3 months. No significant changes were appreciated in WBC. RBC counts were very elevated following ETV/CPC and quickly declined over the subsequent month. CSF glucose and protein deviate significantly from normal ranges following ETV/CPC before normalizing over 3 months. High RBC values immediately post-ETV/CPC decline rapidly. Age at time of procedure and etiology have little influence on common clinical CSF laboratory parameters. Of note, the retrospective study design necessitates ETV/CPC failure, which could introduce bias in the results.
Positive Interventions in Depression

Positive psychiatry is a new approach to psychiatric disorders; instead of focusing on the mental pathology, it promotes the well-being of the person and emphasizes the strength and resilience of the person. It derives its momentum and theoretical underpinnings from the more established field of positive psychology, an emerging scientific branch of psychology that renders itself to research and empirical studies. From the inception of psychiatry as a medical specialty in the nineteenth century, the field has been divided into the biological sciences and the psychological/social sciences, each side claiming the etiological explanations and the therapeutic modalities of mental illnesses. And with the advances in our current knowledge and clinical experiences, we are coming to the realization that the dichotomy of brain/mind or biology/psychology is losing grounds to a new more integrative and reciprocal model of understanding the human mind. One of the significant mental disorders that demonstrates the dialectical nature of the brain/mind dilemma is a major depression. In this chapter, I will discuss the various historical conceptualizations and treatments of major depressive illness to illustrate the probable multifaceted etiology of depression and the broad spectrum of treatment options that span the continuum from the biological to the psychological. I will also illustrate how the very nature of the major depressive disorder renders it well suited for positive psychiatry to play a role in its causal understanding and a crucial role in its management and prevention.
intern: Integrated Toolkit for Extensible and Reproducible Neuroscience

As neuroscience datasets continue to grow in size, the complexity of data analyses can require a detailed understanding and implementation of systems computer science for storage, access, processing, and sharing. Currently, several general data standards (e.g., Zarr, HDF5, precompute, tensorstore) and purpose-built ecosystems (e.g., BossDB, CloudVolume, DVID, and Knossos) exist. Each of these systems has advantages and limitations and is most appropriate for different use cases. Using datasets that don9t fit into RAM in this heterogeneous environment is challenging, and significant barriers exist to leverage underlying research investments. In this manuscript, we outline our perspective for how to approach this challenge through the use of community provided, standardized interfaces that unify various computational backends and abstract computer science challenges from the scientist. We introduce desirable design patterns and our reference implementation called intern.
Role of plant diversity on arthropod communities in a restored tallgrass prairie of the U.S. Midwest

We investigated the effects of enhanced plant species diversity on prairie restoration on arthropod community assembly in a restored tallgrass prairie of the U.S. Midwest. Despite weak correlation with the arthropod taxon, enhanced plant species diversity in the restored prairie (RP) promoted the evenness and diversity of arthropod functional groups and led to a divergence of arthropod assemblage in comparison to the ones in old field (OF) and monospecific stand (reed canary grass [RCG]) of exotic reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacia). Pollinators were most and least abundant in RP and RCG, respectively, and exhibited a positive correlation to plant species diversity. Herbivore abundance, highest in RP, also increased with plant species diversity. The diversity of arthropod functional groups was likely facilitated by structural complexity of the RP vegetation that resulted from the enhanced plant species diversity, particularly flowering and nectar‐producing forbs. Predator abundance, highest in RCG, decreased with plant species diversity and increased with C₃ grass cover. The presence of small‐body sized herbivores seemed to attract predators in the RCG site, which has a monospecific vegetation structure of C₃ reed canary grass. Our results demonstrate a positive effect of prairie restoration on the diversity of arthropod functional groups. We recommend increasing the diversity of native plant species and reduction (or eradication if possible) of exotic plants in the OF and RCG sites.
The Fractured Messaging of the National Collegiate Athletic Association and Its Members in Response to COVID-19

The sports world's near universal moratorium in response to the COVID-19 pandemic was abrupt and unprecedented From professional leagues to youth sports, doors were closed to competitions and events to help stop the spread of the coronavirus The hiatus began at one of the busiest times on the calendar for sport, with the National Basketball Association and National Hockey League seasons concluding;the Women's National Basketball Association and National Football League drafts taking place;Major League Baseball's spring training nearing its conclusion;the Professional Golf Association and Ladies Professional Golf Association Tours starting their seasons;and the National Collegiate Athletic Association's marquee events, the Division-I men's and women's basketball tournaments, set to begin The suddenness of the interruption was met with a need by the various sport entities to engage their public with information about their respective responses The statements that emerged on or after March 12 - "the day the sports world stopped" - were not all the same Many of the statements, in fact, were quite different That was especially the case with the National Collegiate Athletic Association, whose governance structure and messaging practices hindered their ability to have a uniform response The purpose of this essay was to examine the public messaging of sport leagues and organizations and to discuss the effectiveness (or ineffectiveness) of those public statements
Dynamics of Systemic Inflammation as a Function of Developmental Stage in Pediatric Acute Liver Failure

The Pediatric Acute Liver Failure (PALF) study is a multicenter, observational cohort study of infants and children diagnosed with this complex clinical syndrome. Outcomes in PALF reflect interactions among the child's clinical condition, response to supportive care, disease severity, potential for recovery, and, if needed, availability of a suitable organ for liver transplantation (LTx). Previously, we used computational analyses of immune/inflammatory mediators that identified three distinct dynamic network patterns of systemic inflammation in PALF associated with spontaneous survivors, non-survivors (NS), and LTx recipients. To date, there are no data exploring age-specific immune/inflammatory responses in PALF. Accordingly, we measured a number of clinical characteristics and PALF-associated systemic inflammatory mediators in daily serum samples collected over the first 7 days following enrollment from five distinct PALF cohorts (all spontaneous survivors without LTx): infants (INF, N O 2 - / N O 3 - . Dynamic Bayesian Network inference identified a common network motif with HMGB1 as a central node in all sub-groups, with MIG/CXCL9 being a central node in all groups except INF. Dynamic Network Analysis (DyNA) inferred different dynamic patterns and overall dynamic inflammatory network complexity as follows: OCH>INF>TOD>ADO>YCH. Hypothesizing that systemically elevated but sparsely connected inflammatory mediators represent pathological inflammation, we calculated the AuCon score (area under the curve derived from multiple measures over time divided by DyNA connectivity) for each mediator, and identified HMGB1, MIG, IP-10/CXCl10, sIL-2Rα, and MCP-1/CCL2 as potential correlates of PALF pathophysiology, largely in agreement with the results of Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis. Since NS were in the INF age group, we compared NS to INF and found greater inflammatory coordination and dynamic network connectivity in NS vs. INF. HMGB1 was the sole central node in both INF and NS, though NS had more downstream nodes. Thus, multiple machine learning approaches were used to gain both basic and potentially translational insights into a complex inflammatory disease.
The Scientific Contributions of Bernard Cohen (1929-2019).

Throughout Bernard Cohen's active career at Mount Sinai that lasted over a half century, he was involved in research on vestibular control of the oculomotor, body postural, and autonomic systems in animals and humans, contributing to our understanding of such maladies as motion sickness, mal de debarquement syndrome, and orthostatic syncope. This review is an attempt to trace and connect Cohen's varied research interests and his approaches to them. His influence was vast. His scientific contributions will continue to drive research directions for many years to come.
Trends in Utilization of Preoperative Embolization for Spinal Metastases: A Study of the National Inpatient Sample 2005-2017.

PURPOSE While previous studies have suggested that preoperative embolization of hypervascular spinal metastases may alleviate intraoperative blood loss and improve resectability, trends and driving factors for choosing this approach have not been extensively explored. Therefore, we evaluated the trends and assessed the factors associated with preoperative embolization utilization for spinal metastatic tumors using a national inpatient database. MATERIALS AND METHODS The National Inpatient Sample database of the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project was queried for patients undergoing surgical resection for spinal metastasis between January 1, 2005 and December 31, 2017. Patients undergoing preoperative embolization were identified; trends in the utilization of preoperative embolization were analyzed using the Cochran-Armitage test. Multivariable regression was conducted to assess factors associated with higher preoperative embolization utilization. RESULTS A total of 11,508 patients with spinal metastasis were identified; 105 (0.91%) underwent preoperative embolization. Of those 105 patients, 79 (75.24%) patients had a primary renal cancer, as compared to 1,732 (15.19%) of those who did not undergo preoperative embolization (P 0.05). Trends in preoperative embolization indicated an increase of 0.16% (standard error: 0.024%, P<0.001) in utilization per year. CONCLUSION Utilization of preoperative embolization for spinal metastasis is increasing yearly, especially for patients with renal cancer, suggesting that surgeons may increasingly consider embolization before surgical resection for hypervascular tumors. Additionally, the literature has shown the intraoperative and postoperative benefits of this procedure.
Impact of the volume of the myelomeningocele sac on imaging, prenatal neurosurgery and motor outcomes: a retrospective cohort study.

To investigate the association of the myelomeningocele (MMC) volume with prenatal and postnatal motor function (MF) in cases who underwent a prenatal repair. Retrospective cohort study (11/2011 to 03/2019) of 63 patients who underwent a prenatal MMC repair (37 fetoscopic, 26 open-hysterotomy). At referral, measurements of the volume of MMC was performed based on ultrasound scans. A large MMC was defined as greater than the optimal volume threshold (ROC analysis) for the prediction of intact MF at referral (2.7 cc). Prenatal or postnatal intact motor function (S1) was defined as the observation of plantar flexion of the ankle based on ultrasound scan or postnatal examination. 23/63 participants presented a large MMC. Large MMC lesions was associated with an increased risk of having clubfeet by 9.5 times (CI%95[2.1–41.8], p < 0.01), and reduces the chances of having an intact MF at referral by 0.19 times (CI%95[0.1–0.6], p < 0.01). At birth, a large MMC reduces the chance of having an intact MF by 0.09 times (CI%95[0.01–0.49], p < 0.01), and increases the risk of having clubfeet by 3.7 times (CI%95[0.8–18.3], p = 0.11). A lower proportion of intact MF and a higher proportion of clubfeet pre- or postnatally were observed in cases with a large MMC sac who underwent a prenatal repair. Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02230072 and NCT03794011 registered on September 3rd, 2014 and January 4th, 2019.
Effects of milk replacer feeding rate and frequency of preweaning dairy calves in the southeastern United States: Performance, abomasal emptying, and nutrient digestibility

ABSTRACT To evaluate the effects of milk replacer (MR) feeding rate (FR) and frequency (FF) on performance, abomasal emptying, and nutrient digestibility in the southeastern United States, Holstein calves (n = 48/season) were enrolled at 8 d of age (DOA) during summer [June to August, body weight (BW; mean ± SD) = 40.71 ± 4.35 kg] and winter (November to January, BW = 42.03 ± 3.83 kg). Within season, calves were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 treatments in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement including 2 FR [0.65 (low) or 0.76 kg of solid per day (high) of a 26% crude protein and 17% fat MR], and 2 FF [2× (0700 and 1600 h) or 3× (0700, 1600, and 2200 h) daily]. Calves were housed in polyethylene hutches and managed similarly throughout the trial. Milk replacer (12.5% solids) was fed to calves based on their respective treatments until 42 DOA, when MR allowance was reduced by 50% and offered once a day (0700 h) for the following 7 d until weaning. Calves remained on trial until 63 DOA. Calf starter and water were offered ad libitum. Ambient temperature and relative humidity inside and outside hutches were measured hourly. Starter and MR intakes were recorded daily. Respiration rate and rectal temperature were recorded 3 times a week. Structural growth and BW were measured weekly. Acetaminophen (50 mg/kg of BW) mixed with MR was fed to a subset of calves (0700 h, n = 10/treatment per season) on 20 DOA. Plasma was collected at 15, 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, 180, 210, 240, 270, 300, 330, 360, 420, and 480 min after feeding, to analyze acetaminophen. The acetaminophen concentration-time curve was modeled to the first derivative of Siegel's modified power exponential equation, and the time for plasma acetaminophen to reach maximum (Tmax) was calculated to evaluate abomasal emptying rate. During the pre- (14.9–17.9 DOA) and postweaning (51.0–54.0 DOA) periods, a subset (n = 8/treatment per season) of calves was used to determine the apparent digestibility of nutrients, using chromic oxide as the external marker. Feeding 3× reduced preweaning respiration rate during summer and reduced rectal temperature during winter. Increasing FR improved BW gain and structural growth. Feeding more times per day tended to improve growth during winter but not summer. We found no effect of treatment on nutrient digestibility. Increasing FR had no effect on Tmax during winter but tended to delay Tmax of plasma acetaminophen during summer. Regardless of season, increasing FF lowered Tmax of plasma acetaminophen. In conclusion, increasing FF accelerated abomasal emptying and might reduce heat load of preweaning dairy calves but improved growth only during winter. Increased MR allowance improved growth in both seasons but delayed abomasal emptying only under heat stress conditions.
Universal Linker and Ligation Procedures for Construction of Genomic DNA Libraries Enriched for Microsatellites

Microsatellite loci are highly informative genetic markers useful for population genetic studies, linkage mapping and parentage determination. Methods to identify novel microsatellite loci commonly use subtractive hybridization to enrich small-insert genomic libraries for repeat sequences. A critical step in enrichment is attachment of an oligonucleotide linker to genomic DNA fragments so that repeat-containing sequences can be recovered by PCR for cloning. Current linkers and ligation methods rely on single restriction enzymes to size-fraction genomic DNA and generate complementary ends. These restriction enzyme/linker combinations are often species-specific, give poor recovery of repeat-enriched DNA and yield library inserts that are not a broad sample of the genome. We have developed a blunt-end linker, named SNX for its restriction sites, that allows the use of combinations of restriction enzymes to digest the majority of genomic DNA into the 200-1000-bp range. SNX is attached to genomic DNA with a simultaneous ligation/restriction reaction that is highly efficient and improves recovery of sequences after subtractive hybridization. SNX can be used for microsatellite enrichment in any species, since ligation is independent of the restriction enzymes used to size-fraction genomic DNA. These methods improve current repeat-enrichment strategies, resulting in representative small-insert libraries with a very high proportion of positive clones.
A Comparison of the Nontraditional Students' Experience on Traditional Versus Nontraditional College Campuses

The majority of research on nontraditional students has been conducted in environments where they constitute a significant portion of the college population. For the most part, this research found few problems and indicated that nontraditional students' college experiences are positive. This article compares the experience of nontraditional students at two types of campuses—a traditional campus where older students constitute a small percentage of the student population and two branch campuses where there is a substantial number of older students. The findings indicate areas in which a lack of age diversity may have an impact on the nontraditional students' experience.
Feasibility of a Bilingual, Interactive, Computer‐Based Breastfeeding Support Program for Rural Hispanic Women

Paper Presentation Objective To develop and evaluate the acceptance and usability of a bilingual, interactive, touch screen, computer‐based breastfeeding education program for rural Hispanic women. Design Focus groups were used to explore factors influencing breastfeeding practices among rural Hispanic women. Quantitative data were collected using sociodemographic questionnaires, the Breastfeeding Self‐Efficacy Scale Short Form (BFSE‐SF), and the revised Breastfeeding Attrition Prediction Tool (BAPT). Setting Regional West Medical Center in rural western Nebraska. Sample Participants included convenience samples of self‐described Hispanic women age ≥ 19 years old (focus groups n = 12, usability assessments n = 10). Methods Qualitative data were collected using open‐ended questions based on predicting and changing behavior theory. Univariate statistical analyses were performed to describe quantitative data, and framework analysis was used to thematically analyze narrative data. A prototype program was developed by modifying a Patient Education and Motivation Tool that integrates several cognitive‐behavioral theories and utilizes multimedia formats. To evaluate usability, participants were given a brief introduction to the program and then asked to perform a predefined set of tasks. Data included the time to complete each task, number of attempts, and need for assistance. System usability was assessed using the System Usability Scale (SUS). Results The majority of participants (83%) had not taken prenatal breastfeeding classes nor did they intend to. Although BAPT results indicated above average intention to breast feed, 33% of the participants had BFSE‐SF scores indicating they were at greater risk for early discontinuation of breastfeeding. Most mothers (67%) decided to breastfeed because of perceived benefits for infant health. Feedback obtained during the focus groups and the results of the BAPT and BFSE‐SF guided the development of content for the computer‐based breastfeeding education program. Participants navigated through the prototype program with ease and no assistance was needed. Average SUS scores were high (90, SD = 10.5). Conclusion/Implications for Nursing Practice We identified factors that affect breastfeeding practices among rural Hispanic women, which were then used to guide the development of a bilingual, interactive, touch screen, computer‐based, breastfeeding education program. The prototype was well accepted, and participants were able to navigate through the program with ease. Based on these assessments, the program has been further refined and is currently being evaluated to determine whether it is effective in changing breastfeeding behavior in this population.
Biorthogonal generalization of Meyer wavelets

Construction of a class of symmetric and bandlimited dual wavelet pairs that provide biorthogonal decompositions is presented. The procedure first produces a pair of scaling functions that are biorthogonal duals of each other. The wavelet Fourier transforms are then constructed by piecing together sections of the Fourier transforms of the two scaling functions. An example is provided. The construction can be viewed as a generalization of the Meyer class of wavelets to the biorthogonal case.
Employee turnover and operational performance: the moderating effect of group‐oriented organisational culture

This study investigates the relationship between overall employee turnover and operational performance and whether organisational culture is a moderator. Using a sample of 114 outpatient centres from a health-care system, we found a strong negative relationship between employee turnover and operational performance. Additionally, we found that organisations with a relatively stronger group-oriented organisational culture did not experience lower operational performance in the presence of high turnover. These findings contribute to the literature on the relationship between turnover and performance. Organisations with persistent high levels of turnover may want to consider developing and adopting practices that are consistent with a group-oriented organisational culture.
Enactments in couple therapy: identifying therapist interventions associated with positive change

Greenberg's analytic method of process research was used to identify therapist interventions associated with positive change during thirty-six videotaped segments of enactments. Couple interaction was coded using the rapid couple interaction scoring system. Stepwise regression analyses revealed different patterns by gender, with therapists directing and working with emotions related to husband positive interaction and therapist structuring related to wife positive interactions. A multivariate analysis of variance revealed significant differences between couples who became either positive or negative during the enactments. Structuring, directing, and supporting were used more often with positive couples. Implications for theory, therapy, and research are discussed.
Response availability and percentage of occurrence of response members in children's paired-associate learning

Abstract The present study investigated differential response learning as a function of percentage of occurrence of response members. Eighty children learned a list consisting of six paired adjectives. In one experimental condition Ss learned by the conventional anticipation method. The second experimental condition also employed the anticipation method but, in addition, the responses of the to-be-learned list were presented in a vertical array next to each stimulus during the anticipation interval. The results indicated that the difference between 100% and 33 1 3 % occurrence of response members as measured by correct responses and overt extra-list errors was significantly decreased by making responses available. One interpretation of the data is that availability of responses tends to delimit Ss' responses to those contained in the paired-associate list, and thereby reduces the superiority of 100% to 33 1 3 % occurrence of response members.
Chemical-Enzymatic Synthesis of A Branched Hexasaccharide Fragment of Type Ia Group B Streptococcus Capsular Polysaccharide

ABSTRACT A branched hexasaccharide fragment of type Ia group B streptococcal polysaccharide, α-NeuAc(2→3)-β-D-Gal(1→4)-β-D-GlcNAc(1→3)-[β-D-Glc(1→4)]-β-D-Gal(1→4)-β-D-Glc-OMe (13), has been synthesized by chemical-enzymatic procedures. Chemical synthesis of a pentasaccharide, β-D-Gal(1→4)-β-D-GlcNAc(1→3)-[β-D-Glc(1→4)]-β-D-Gal(1→4)-β-D-Glc-OMe (12), was achieved from glycosyl donor, 4-O-(2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-β-D-galactopyranosyl)-3,6-di-O-acetyl-2-deoxy-2-phthalimido-β-D-glucopyranosyl trichloroacetimidate (9), and acceptor, methyl O-(2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-β-D-glucopyranosyl)-(1→4)-O-(2,6-di-O-benzyl-β-D-galactopyranosyl)-(1→4)-2,3,6-tri-O-benzyl-β-D-glucopyranoside (6), by block condensation in 41% yield. Following enzymatic sialylation of 12 at the 3-O-position of its terminal galactopyranosyl residue using recombinant α-(2→3)-sialyltransferase and CMP-NeuAc afforded 13 in 59% yield.
Sodium mobility in irradiated SiO 2

The distribution of sodium in the oxide films of MOS capacitors was determined by etch-off procedures, using sodium-22 as a tracer. The effects on sodium distribution of ionizing radiation, of in-diffused aluminum, and of bias-temperature stressing were then determined and compared with C-V measurements of the total oxide charge in the same samples. Aluminum films sintered for 30 minutes at 500°C provided high aluminum concentrations (∼1020/cm3) in the oxide near the surface, while sintering for 60 minutes caused aluminum to diffuse about three times deeper. In both cases low concentrations (∼1018/cm3) were found next to the silicon. Aluminum-rich portions of the oxide were found to trap sodium, and thus the oxides with the 30-minute aluminum sinter had very little sodium concentrated near the silicon substrate (0.2 to 0.6 t 1011/cm2); the interfacial sodium accounted for only 2% of the oxide charge determined by C-V measurements. Oxides without aluminum or with 60-minute aluminum sinter had nearly 10-fold higher interfacial sodium concentrations (1 to 6 t 1011/cm2) and this interfacial sodium accounted for 10% of the oxide charge from C-V measurements. Ionizing radiation (106 rads in one hour from cobalt-60 at 25°C with a positive bias of 106 volts/cm) increased the total oxide charge by 14 to 17 t 1011 electronic charges/cm2, but caused very small increases, in interfacial sodium (0.2 to 0.9 t 1011 ions/cm2). However, the combination of ionizing radiation followed by positive bias stress (106 volts/cm) at 300°C for 10 minutes caused an appreciable movement of sodium to the interface in some of the oxides, especially those with no aluminum or with aluminum sintered for 60 minutes. Positive bias at 300°C for 10 minutes in aluminum-doped oxides caused large increases in negative voltage shifts (corresponding to an increase of 10 to 20 t 1011 positive charges per cm2) but in the same tests no more than 3 t 1011 sodium ions per cm2 moved into the oxide next to the silicon substrate. These results suggest that the drift of positively charged aluminum interstitials may be the cause of much of the voltage shift in 300°C tests.
Simulating diffusion on Si(001) 2×1 surfaces using a modified interatomic potential

A modified form of the Tersoff empirical interatomic potential for Si is proposed to improve simulation of adatom behaviors on Si surfaces. The modified form of the potential is consistent with local-density-approximation calculations of the surface electronic band structure of Si(001) 2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}1. It is demonstrated that the addition of a screened-Morse-potential tail to the bulk Tersoff interaction behavior when tetrahedral coordination is disrupted improves the results significantly. The surface structure is calculated and shown to yield substantial differences with respect to the original potential form. In particular, anomalous abrupt variations in adatom bonding energy are eliminated and the probability of a successful deposition of the adatom on a lattice site is increased.
Gravitational lensing: a unique probe of dark matter and dark energy

I review the development of gravitational lensing as a powerful tool of the observational cosmologist. After the historic eclipse expedition organized by Arthur Eddington and Frank Dyson, the subject lay observationally dormant for 60 years. However, subsequent progress has been astonishingly rapid, especially in the past decade, so that gravitational lensing now holds the key to unravelling the two most profound mysteries of our Universe—the nature and distribution of dark matter, and the origin of the puzzling cosmic acceleration first identified in the late 1990s. In this non-specialist review, I focus on the unusual history and achievements of gravitational lensing and its future observational prospects.
Mobilizing rural deposits: Discovering the forgotten half of financial intermediation*

Past agricultural credit programs and policies have generally ignored rural deposit mobilization. In recent years, however, there has been a greater recognition of the need for and benefits of mobilizing more rural deposits for use in agricultural lending. This paper presents information on six questions: Why was rural deposit mobilization forgotten? Why is deposit mobilization important for rural financial institutions? What is the potential for mobilizing rural deposits? What factors contribute to rural deposit mobilization? What is the outcome of recent experimental projects to mobilize rural deposits? What are the key remaining issues to be addressed in rural deposit mobilization?
The flavonoid pigments of opuntia lindheimeri

Abstract Quercetin 3-galactoside (hyperin) and the isorhamnetin 3-rutinoside (narcissin), 3-galactoside and 3-rhamnogalactoside were found in the flowers of Opuntia lindheimeri. The last two compounds had not been previously described.
High-performance liquid chromatographic assay and preclinical pharmacological studies of pibenzimol (bisbenzimidazole).

Abstract A sensitive and selective high-performance liquid chromatographic assay with ultraviolet or fluorescence detection has been developed for the experimental antitumor agent pibenzimol. Drug is isolated from plasma or other aqueous solutions with reversed-phase C18 disposable extraction columns and chromatography afforded with a deactivated reversed-phase C18 column and phosphate buffer—methanol mobile phase. Plasma standard curves are linear for concentrations for pibenzimol from 0.01 to 5.0 μg/ml. Pibenzimol is stable in fresh human plasma and whole blood. Pibenzimol appears to bind to plasma proteins; however, drug adsorption to glass, plastic, membranes, and filters precludes accurate determination of pibenzimol plasma protein binding. Plasma concentrations of pibenzimol fall rapidly following rapid intravenous administration to rabbits, but parent drug is detectable in plasma 24 h after drug administration. The 24-h urinary recovery of pibenzimol is 10–20%.
BAND-AiDe: A Tool for Cyber-Physical Oriented Analysis and Design of Body Area Networks and Devices

Body area networks (BANs) are networks of medical devices implanted within or worn on the human body. Analysis and verification of BAN designs require (i) early feedback on the BAN design and (ii) high-confidence evaluation of BANs without requiring any hazardous, intrusive, and costly deployment. Any design of BAN further has to ensure (i) the safety of the human body, that is, limiting any undesirable side-effects (e.g., heat dissipation) of BAN operations (involving sensing, computation, and communication among the devices) on the human body, and (ii) the sustainability of the BAN operations, that is, the continuation of the operations under constrained resources (e.g., limited battery power in the devices) without requiring any redeployments. This article uses the Model Based Engineering (MBE) approach to perform design and analysis of BANs. In this regard, first, an abstract cyber-physical model of BANs, called BAN-CPS, is proposed that captures the undesirable side-effects of the medical devices (cyber) on the human body (physical); second, a design and analysis tool, named BAND-AiDe, is developed that allows specification of BAN-CPS using industry standard Abstract Architecture Description Language (AADL) and enables safety and sustainability analysis of BANs; and third, the applicability of BAND-AiDe is shown through a case study using both single and a network of medical devices for health monitoring applications.
The limits of human development and the use of energy and natural resources

The development of nations is an unquestionable requirement. A lot of challenges concerning health, education and economy are present. A discussion on these development models has occupied the minds of decision makers in recent years. When energy supply and demand is considered, the situation becomes critical and the crucial question is: how to improve the quality of life of developing countries based on available models of development that are related to the life style of developed countries, for which the necessary use and waste of energy are present? How much energy is essential to humanity for not so as to endangering the survival conditions of future generations? The human development index (HDI) establishes the relationship among energy use, economic growth and social growth. Here it can be seen that 75% of the world population has a significant energy consumption potential. This is a strong reason to consider that the sustainable development concepts on energy policies are strategic to the future of the planet. This paper deals with the importance of seeking alternative development models for human development balance, natural resources conservation and environment through rational energy use concepts.
Effects of Distance to Juniperus virginiana on the Establishment of Fraxinus and Acer Seedlings in Old Fields

Abstract It has been hypothesized that Juniperus virginiana facilitates tree seedling establishment in secondary succession. To test this hypothesis, we sampled four old fields in southwestern Ohio and monitored experimentally planted seeds and seedlings of Acer saccharum and Fraxinus americana for two years. Seeds and seedlings were placed into herbivore exclosures placed 0.3 and 3.0 m from J. virginiana trees in an old field in Ohio. We found a significant positive spatial association between Juniperus virginiana and tree seedling densities in all four old fields. Soil temperature, soil moisture, evaporative demand and light level in the 0.3 m treatment were significantly reduced, whereas litter depth was increased. Germination of A. saccharum, but not F. americana, was reduced in the 0.3 m treatment, whereas seedling survival was unaffected in either species. Growth of F. americana seedlings was reduced by proximity to J. virginiana but A. saccharum growth was not affected. Stomatal conductance was red...