cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An assessment of hydrologic factors that influence contaminant concentrations determined from domestic well-water samples

Open borehole wells in fractured crystalline rock are commonly used for domestic water supply. Concentrations of contaminants present in the well water, typically collected from the tap after some degree of purging, are weighted average concentrations. In this study, factors which influence sample concentrations collected from domestic wells are evaluated through the use of conceptual models and confirmatory field tests. Focus is on the extent of drawdown during sampling, distance between the pump inlet and contaminated fractures, relative fracture transmissivity, fracture discharge rate into the borehole, and the hydraulic head distribution of the fractures. Simplified spreadsheet models were developed to assess the relation between these factors and sample concentrations. The models show that in addition to fracture transmissivities, drawdown in relation to fracture head plays a significant role in how much water recharges a well from each fracture, yet it is rarely measured when sampling domestic wells. To evaluate the extent of drawdown that may occur under typical household usage, water levels were monitored in three domestic wells. Pumping tests were conducted in three wells to measure changes in concentration as a function of pumping duration. Downhole profiling was conducted to examine how pumping induces changes to water quality within the wellbore. The results indicate that these factors can have a strong influence on contaminant concentrations in samples collected from these wells. As such, the weighted averaging factors should be considered in sample collection, in data interpretation, in assessing exposure risk and in mapping contaminant distributions.
Switching Lanes or Exiting? STEM Experiences, Perceptions, and Identity Construction Among College STEM Switchers

Using a STEM identity framework and student perceptions of the interdependence of STEM disciplines, we examined the experiences of students who started college as a declared-STEM major and changed majors to either within STEM or outside of STEM. Of particular focus was on where students switched and why they chose those majors. Semi-structured interview data were collected from 23 participants at a 4-year public university. We found student STEM identity to be informed by challenging experiences encountered while taking STEM courses as well as their exploration and development of career goals. STEM identity construction was also associated with their reevaluation of whether their initial STEM majors were the right place for them. In addition, the participants perceived the interdependence of STEM disciplines at different levels, which we considered to be related to their switching majors. An emergent theme was that a students’ career goal or image played a pivotal role for all switchers when connecting their STEM identity narratives with their perceptions of STEM and their choice of switching. The study raises questions regarding how faculty and institutions of higher education can effectively inform and support STEM entrants so that students may stay, change, or exit the STEM lanes.
ELECTROMYOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS OF GLUTEAL RECRUITMENT: AN EXPLORATION OF ACTIVATION DURING JUMPING TASKS.

Background Inability to maintain proper alignment of the pelvis and femur due to gluteal muscle weakness has been associated with numerous lower extremity pathologies. Therefore, many lower extremity rehabilitation and injury prevention programs employ exercises that target gluteal muscle strength and activation. While information regarding muscle activation during exercises that are typically done in the beginning stages of rehabilitation is available, evidence regarding the gluteal muscle activity during more functional and advanced exercises used during later stages of rehabilitation is sparse. Purpose To explore the recruitment of the gluteal muscles during jumping tasks in healthy participants to determine which jumping exercise best elicits gluteal muscle activation. Study design Prospective cohort design. Methods Eighteen healthy recreational athletes (23.5 ± 3.8 years, 8M/10F, 67.56 ± 3.2 inches, 66.73 ± 9.5 kg) completed three trials of four jumping tasks: hurdle jump, split jump, V2 lateral jump, and cross-over jump in random order. Surface EMG electrodes were placed on each participant's bilateral gluteus medius (GMed) and maximus (GMax) to measure muscle activity during the jumping tasks. Maximal voluntary isometric muscle contraction (MVIC) was established for each muscle group in order to express each jumping task as a percentage of MVIC and allow standardized comparison across participants. EMG data were analyzed for all jumps using a root-mean-square algorithm and smoothed with a 62.5 millisecond time reference. Rank ordering of muscle activation during jumping tasks was performed utilizing the peak percent MVIC recorded during each jumping task. Results Three of the jumping tasks produced greater than 70% MVIC of the GMed muscle. In rank order from highest EMG value to lowest, these jumping tasks were: crossover jump (103% MVIC), hurdle jump (93.2% MVIC), and V2 lateral jump (84.7% MVIC). Two of the exercises recruited GMax with values greater than 70% MVIC. In rank order from highest EMG value to lowest, these jumping tasks were: hurdle jump (76.8% MVIC) and split jump (73.1% MVIC). Only the hurdle jump produced greater than 70% MVIC for both GMed and GMax muscles. Conclusions The jumping task that resulted in greatest activation of the GMed was the crossover jump, while hurdle jump led to the greatest activation of the GMax. The high %MVIC for the GMed during the crossover jump may be attributed to lack of maximal effort or lack of motivation during performance of maximal contractions during the manual muscle testing. Alternatively, substantial co-contraction of core muscles during the crossover jumping task may have led to higher values. Level of evidence 2b Individual Cohort Study.
Examining models of psychologists' telepsychology use during the COVID-19 pandemic: A national cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to apply the theory of reasoned action (TRA) and technology acceptance model (TAM) to psychologists' telepsychology use during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: A sample of 2619 US-licensed psychologists completed a survey assessing telepsychology use and aspects of both models in May 2020. RESULTS: Cross-sectional TRA and TAM path models evidenced excellent fit in explaining psychologists' telepsychology use. The TRA indicated that psychologists' attitudes concerning telepsychology and subjective norms were associated with intentions to use telepsychology, which related to percentage of clinical work performed via telepsychology. The TAM showed that perceived usefulness of telepsychology and perceived ease of use were associated with attitudes toward telepsychology. Perceived usefulness was associated with psychologists' intention to use telepsychology, as was perceived ease of use. CONCLUSION: Efforts to facilitate telepsychology provision during the pandemic and broadly may benefit from trainings and campaigns to address attitudes toward telepsychology, subjective norms, and perceived ease of use.
The effect of in-cylinder flow processes (swirl, squish and turbulence intensity) on engine efficiency ― model predictions

Influence de l'ecoulement dans les cylindres (tourbillon, refoulement des gaz par le piston, intensite de la turbulence) sur le rendement d'un moteur. Calcul par modele
Alcoholism: Acute Treatment

Alcohol is the most commonly abused substance creating serious medical and psychological problems. I will present an overview of emergency problems here, but the extensive discussion of rehabilitation that serves as a prototype for the rehabilitation of substance abusers in general is presented in Chapter 15.
Student perceptions of gamified audience response system interactions in large group lectures and via lecture capture technology

Higher education students have positive attitudes about the use of audience response systems (ARS), but even technology-enhanced lessons can become tiresome if the pedagogical approach is exactly the same with each implementation. Gamification is the notion that gaming mechanics can be applied to routine activities. In this study, TurningPoint (TP) ARS interactions were gamified and implemented in 22 large group medical microbiology lectures throughout an integrated year 1 osteopathic medical school curriculum. A 32-item questionnaire was used to measure students’ perceptions of the gamified TP interactions at the end of their first year. The survey instrument generated both Likert scale and open-ended response data that addressed game design and variety, engagement and learning features, use of TP questions after class, and any value of lecture capture technology for reviewing these interactive presentations. The Chi Square Test was used to analyze grouped responses to Likert scale questions. Responses to open-ended prompts were categorized using open-coding. Ninety-one students out of 106 (86 %) responded to the survey. A significant majority of the respondents agreed or strongly agreed that the games were engaging, and an effective learning tool. The questionnaire investigated the degree to which specific features of these interactions were engaging (nine items) and promoted learning (seven items). The most highly ranked engagement aspects were peer competition and focus on the activity (tied for highest ranking), and the most highly ranked learning aspect was applying theoretical knowledge to clinical scenarios. Another notable item was the variety of interactions, which ranked in the top three in both the engagement and learning categories. Open-ended comments shed light on how students use TP questions for exam preparation, and revealed engaging and non-engaging attributes of these interactive sessions for students who review them via lecture capture. Students clearly valued the engagement and learning aspects of gamified TP interactions. The overwhelming majority of students surveyed in this study were engaged by the variety of TP games, and gained an interest in microbiology. The methods described in this study may be useful for other educators wishing to expand the utility of ARS in their classrooms.
Induction in rats of uterine epidermoid carcinomas by plastic and stainless steel intrauterine devices

Abstract Stainless steel and polyethylene intrauterine devices were placed bilaterally in two groups of 100 female juvenile Wistar rats. Within 2 years, 6 epidermoid carcinomas were found associated with stainless steel devices and t were found associated with polyethylene devices; no epidermoid carcinomas were found in 400 control animals. The relevance of these findings to the use of intrauterine contraceptive devices in women is considered.
Effect of gas bubbles on recrystallization of tungsten

Tungsten sheet deposited from WF6 vapor was rolled at temperatures up to 1000°C and reductions in thickness up to 95 pct. Recovery and recrystallization were studied using hardness measurements and transmission electron microscopy. The temperatures for the onset of recrystallization during 1 hr anneals were 1600°C or more. Recrystallization was sluggish, requiring temperatures of 2100°C or more for completion. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that many small (< 500A diam) gas bubbles were present on dislocations and recovered subgrain boundaries and caused scalloping of these boundaries and the advancing recrystallized grain boundaries. Coarsening of the bubbles to a relatively few larger bubbles permitted complete recrystallization. No solid inclusions were found. Annealing treatments that coarsened the gas bubbles prior to rolling caused accelerated recovery and complete recrystallization was observed at approximately 1200°C. It is concluded that small gas bubbles were the cause of the original high recrystallization temperatures and also influenced the size and shape of the recrystallized grains.
Poster abstract: Measuring traffic in short-term construction work zones

We describe the design of sensornet systems to measure traffic in short-term work zones in urban areas.
Perceptual Learning Style Matching and L2 Vocabulary Acquisition

This study explored learning and retention of concrete nouns in second language Spanish by first language English undergraduates (N = 128). Each completed a learning style (visual, auditory, tactile/kinesthetic, mixed) assessment, took a vocabulary pretest, and then studied 12 words each through three conditions (matching, mismatching, mixed modality). After two learning sessions, participants took posttests immediately, after 1 week, and after 1 month. Repeated-measures ANOVAs revealed significant (p < .05) effects for condition, with mixed-modality instruction stimulating the greatest learning and the best retention. Style matching also promoted significantly greater retention than mismatching. Findings indicate learners of different style preferences are equally successful at L2 vocabulary acquisition and that instruction through multiple modalities may be even more beneficial than matching individual preferences.
Information Systems to Support Surveillance for Malaria Elimination

Robust and responsive surveillance systems are critical for malaria elimination. The ideal information system that supports malaria elimination includes: rapid and complete case reporting, incorporation of related data, such as census or health survey information, central data storage and management, automated and expert data analysis, and customized outputs and feedback that lead to timely and targeted responses. Spatial information enhances such a system, ensuring cases are tracked and mapped over time. Data sharing and coordination across borders are vital and new technologies can improve data speed, accuracy, and quality. Parts of this ideal information system exist and are in use, but have yet to be linked together coherently. Malaria elimination programs should support the implementation and refinement of information systems to support surveillance and response and ensure political and financial commitment to maintain the systems and the human resources needed to run them. National malaria programs should strive to improve the access and utility of these information systems and establish cross-border data sharing mechanisms through the use of standard indicators for malaria surveillance. Ultimately, investment in the information technologies that support a timely and targeted surveillance and response system is essential for malaria elimination.
Diagnostic accuracy of instrumented and manual talar tilt tests in chronic ankle instability populations

Diagnostic accuracy of the talar tilt test is not well established in a chronic ankle instability (CAI) population. Our purpose was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of instrumented and manual talar tilt tests in a group with varied ankle injury history compared with a reference standard of self-report questionnaire. Ninety-three individuals participated, with analysis occurring on 88 (39 CAI, 17 ankle sprain copers, and 32 healthy controls). Participants completed the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool, arthrometer inversion talar tilt tests (LTT), and manual medial talar tilt stress tests (MTT). The ability to determine CAI status using the LTT and MTT compared with a reference standard was performed. The sensitivity (95% confidence intervals) of LTT and MTT was low [LTT = 0.36 (0.23-0.52), MTT = 0.49 (0.34-0.64)]. Specificity was good to excellent (LTT: 0.72-0.94; MTT: 0.78-0.88). Positive likelihood ratio (+ LR) values for LTT were 1.26-6.10 and for MTT were 2.23-4.14. Negative LR for LTT were 0.68-0.89 and for MTT were 0.58-0.66. Diagnostic odds ratios ranged from 1.43 to 8.96. Both clinical and arthrometer laxity testing appear to have poor overall diagnostic value for evaluating CAI as stand-alone measures. Laxity testing to assess CAI may only be useful to rule in the condition.
Specificity of protein interactions with highly related SRC homology (SH) domains of FGR and FYN protein-tyrosine kinases

As an approach toward identification and isolation of cellular proteins that may act as substrates or effectors of the SRC-family of protein-tyrosine kinases, fusion proteins containing noncatalytic elements of two highly related SRC-family members were tested for their ability to recognize distinct molecules present in lysates of cells known to normally express both enzymes. Our results demonstrate differences of protein binding between the SH2 elements of FYN and FGR kinases, but do not discriminate proteins binding to their SH3 domains.
Effects of restriction of range on predictive validity for the Graduate Record Examination.

Several discussions of the effects of restriction of range on predictive validicy have been presented (1. 3). Generally, the presence of restriction of range on a predictor test will produce lower than expected predictive validity for the performance measure. T o estimate more accurately true predictive validity when restriction of range is present, several correction formulas have been presented (1 , 2 ) . A common area in which restriction of range becomes of interest is in psychological measurement, such as the relationship between Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores and subsequent graduate grade point average. Although restriction effects have been widely discussed, relatively few studies have determined the magnitude of the effects. This study assessed the effects of the extent of restriction of range in a common measurement situation, the effects o n the predictive validity of the GRE. Graduate grade point averages and GRE scores were obtained for 8 5 students who were accepted for graduate smdy in a Master's level program in psychology at a large midwestern university. GRE scores were also obtained for an additional 72 s u b jects who were denied admission. Using a formula to correct for restriction which was presented by Givner and Hynes ( I ) , both corrected and uncorrected predictive validities were computed. The uncorrected predictive validity of the GRE was .15, and che predictive validicy corrected for restriction effects increased slightly to .17; neither correlation is significant. There is no evidence that improvement in a correlation corrected for restriction is dependent upon the magnitude of the original predictive validity. The relatively small increase in predictive validity in this study suggests that, in many actual measurement siruations, effects of restrictions of range may be slight.
Telemanipulation using Exact Dynamics iARM

Upper extremity disorders affect many people worldwide. Individuals who are unable to produce arm movements must go about their daily routine depending on others to assist them. This unfortunate disorder does not become unnoticed in the US, since it is estimated that 1 out of 50 people are living with paralysis — approximately 6 million people. [1] Recent advances in technology include various orthopedic instruments, intended to facilitate a patient in accomplishing tasks. This project will introduce an improved and easier telemanipulation control method for an existing orthopedic instrument used on wheelchairs, the iARM, which is manufactured by ExactDynamics. The design and development of our product is intended to provide increased independence for the disabled. This project is investigating two different control methods to replace the already in use keypad, which is provided by Exact Dynamics. Phase I of this research is aimed towards replacing the keypad with a 3D Spaceball 5000, and programming it to function with the iARM through C++ functions in MATLAB. This portion has functioned and provides ease and comfort to the subject who is maneuvering the robotic arm. Phase II includes developing a new device, which will help patient control the robotic arm via movement by two fingers with the utilization of trakSTAR motion sensors.
Development of a model system for touristic hunting revenue collection and allocation

Abstract Ecotourism can take many forms and provide different levels of human and environmental benefits. The trend has been toward nonconsumptive forms of nature-based tourism, such as bird-watching and photographic tourism. Declining budgets, however, have forced many managers to look increasingly to consumptive uses of natural resources, which have more revenue-producing potential. One consumptive option, trophy or sport hunting, provides significantly higher revenues on a per visitor basis than photographic tourism, and it may also impact the environment less severely. The tourist hunting industries of six eastern and southern African countries are profiled, and models of their revenue collection and disbursement systems provided. The relative merits of the six systems are discussed in terms of the level of benefits which accrue to local people and to wildlife protection programs. An optimal revenue collection/disbursement system is proposed.
The Translator of Newton's “System of the World”

NEWTON'S book, the “System of the World”, has laboured under two uncertainties, the first as to its authorship, the second as to the translator of it into English. The first uncertainty, raised by De Morgan in his “Budget of Paradoxes” (1872, p. 83), has been removed, but the second still prevails, according to G. J. Gray's “Bibliography of the Works of Sir Isaac Newton”, second edition, 1907, p. 20. I wish to prove that it was translated by Andrew Motte, the translator of the “Principia”. This follows conclusively from a comparison of the translation of a practically identical passage of about 850 words in the “Principia” and in the “System of the World”. No two independent translators could use language so very nearly identical. Consider, in particular, a critical phrase in that passage (“Principia”, Bk. 3 Prop. 41, Example; “System of the World”, Paragraph 67): “Nam quod dicitur Fixas ab Aegyptiis comatas nonnunquam visas fuisse”. The translation of “comatas” caused trouble and was rendered in both books by the use of three words, “coma or capillitium”, the whole phrase being translated, “For as to what is alleged that the fixed stars have been sometimes seen by the Egyptians, environed with a coma or capillitium”. Such singular coincidence in a free translation makes it certain that both books are rendered into English by the same translator.
Analysis of Barrier Defects in Low- k /Cu Interconnects Based on Electrochemical Response and Simulation Cell

The electrochemical mechanism behind voltammograms produced by defective barriers in low-k/Cu interconnect structures is investigated using simulation cells which mimic various barrier conditions. The findings reveal that the Cu reaction peak current used as an indicator for barrier defects represents oxidation of Cu at the anodic electrode. When both electrodes have similar defect (Cu) fraction, the voltammogram is symmetric, but when the electrodes have different Cu fraction, the voltammogram is asymmetric and changes during repeated cycling until a stable form is reached.
Concurrent cocaine withdrawal is associated with reduced severity of alcohol withdrawal

The purpose of this study was to implement an empirical assessment of the clinical response to standard alcohol detoxification during withdrawal from both alcohol and cocaine. One hundred forty-nine males consecutively admitted in acute alcohol withdrawal to a hospital-based detoxification unit were studied. All subjects completed a 4-day chlordiazepoxide detoxification. Patients who used drugs other than cocaine were excluded. Fifty-five subjects withdrawing only from alcohol and 94 subjects withdrawing from both alcohol and cocaine, as evidenced by positive urinalysis and history, were studied. Both groups reported similar amounts of daily alcohol intake and had a similar age of onset of alcohol dependence. Parental alcoholism was equally frequent in both groups. Statistically, several variables were directly related to severity of alcohol withdrawal, including associated cocaine abuse, age, abnormal laboratory values, and duration of homelessness. As measured by the Alcohol Withdrawal Scale (AWS), alcohol withdrawal was less severe among cocaine users, not only at intake but throughout the 4-day detoxification. Singly addicted alcoholics were older and had longer drinking histories, more prior detoxifications, and more abnormal laboratory values than cocaine users. A multiple regression analysis demonstrated a significant relationship between cocaine and severity of alcohol withdrawal. Cocaine users more frequently requested reductions in chlordiazepoxide dosages than singly addicted alcoholics, complaining of dysphoria, sedation, and weakness. The severity of alcohol withdrawal was associated with recent cocaine use, age, laboratory abnormalities, and duration of homelessness. Concurrent cocaine withdrawal in the sample was associated with reduced severity of alcohol withdrawal. Possible neurobiological mechanisms, as well as study limitations affecting interpretation of the findings, are discussed. Tailored detoxification as opposed to standard detoxification regimens may be more appropriate for the clinical management of combined alcohol-cocaine withdrawal.
Studies of tolerance in schistosomiasis.

Abstract We have studied the induction of immune tolerance by exogenous exposure to schistosomal egg antigen (SEA). We compared routes of administration, exposure to different forms of SEA (eggs, normal SEA, reultracentrifuged SEA), and treatment schedules. Tolerance was evaluated in comparison to SEA sensitization, after challenge with SEA or eggs. Anti-SEA responses were measured by ELISA assays, and cell-mediated responsiveness by 24-hr skin tests and pulmonary granuloma formation 8 and 16 days after intravenous egg injection. Oral administration of either SEA in PBS or NaHCO 3 , or eggs in PBS did not induce tolerance or sensitization. Reultracentrifuged SEA was similar to SEA in inducing cell-mediated immune response. Intrathymic exposure to SEA either had no effect or sensitized the animal for subsequent exposure to SEA. Two intraperitoneal injections of 0.5 to 1.0 mg of SEA lead to reduced cell-mediated responses, but resulted in high levels of anti-SEA antibody, suggesting a state of split tolerance or immune deviation. Our studies suggest that with complex, poorly denned antigens such as SEA, many of the classic methods of eliciting tolerance fail. The biologic significance of the form of tolerance inducible by high doses of SEA remains to be denned.
An integrated geographic information system approach for modeling the suitability of conifer habitat in an alpine environment

Abstract Alpine periglacial environments within the forest-alpine tundra ecotone (FATE) may be among the first to reflect changes in habitat characteristics as a consequence of climatic change. Previous FATE studies used Integrated Geographic Information System (IGIS) techniques to collect and model biophysical data but lacked the necessary detail to model the micro-scale patterns and compositions of habitat within alpine periglacial environments. This paper describes several promising data collection, integration, and cartographic modeling techniques used in an IGIS approach to model alpine periglacial environments in Glacier National Park (GNP), Montana, USA. High-resolution (I X I m) multi-spectral remote sensing data and differentially corrected Global Positioning System (DGPS) data were integrated with other biophysical data using a raster-based IGIS approach. Biophysical factors, hypothesized to influence the pattern and composition of the FATE and the alpine tundra ecosystem, were derived from the high-resolution remote sensing data, in-situ GPS data, high-resolution models of digital elevation, and other thematic data using image processing techniques and cartographic modeling. Suitability models of conifer habitat were created using indices generated from the IGIS database. This IGIS approach identified suitable conifer habitat within the FATE and permitted the modeling of micro-scale periglacial features and alpine tundra communities that are absent from traditional approaches of landscape-scale (30 X 30 m) modeling.
Can one hear the shape of a drum? revisited

In a landmark paper, Mark Kac in 1966 [Amer. Math. Monthly, 73, pp. 1–23] showed that geometric properties of regions in $R^2 $ can be obtained by studying the asymptotic properties of the spectrum of the Laplacian. He also conjectured that the shape of a region might be completely determined by the spectrum. We describe recent developments in this field and discuss the status of the Kac conjecture as well as similar conjectures for operators other than the Laplacian.
An Inquiry-Based Investigation of Controlled-Release Drug Delivery from Hydrogels: An Experiment for High School Chemistry and Biology

A laboratory experiment on controlled-release drug delivery systems is presented. The intended audience is high school chemistry and biology students. The exercise is meant to complement curriculum on diffusion, enzyme reactions, and polymerization. In the experiment, students used a gelatin hydrogel as the drug delivery system and food dye as a drug. Bromelain, a protease found in pineapples, was used to mimic the enzyme-rich environment of the human body. Bromelain cleaved the gelatin fibers, thus increasing the rate of release. The release of the food dye from the gelatin was measured by spectrophotometry. Students generated and tested hypotheses regarding the effect of gelatin and enzyme concentrations on release. Students were then asked to analyze the release data and to determine if their conclusions matched their hypotheses. The experiment can be adapted as structured, guided, or open inquiry-based instruction.
Suppressive oligodeoxynucleotides delay the onset of glomerulonephritis and prolong survival in lupus-prone NZB x NZW mice.

Objective Synthetic oligodeoxynucleotides (ODN) expressing TTAGGG motifs suppress the production of proinflammatory cytokines and have been proven effective at blocking the development of certain organ-specific autoimmune diseases. We undertook this study to determine whether suppressive ODN alter the development of systemic autoimmunity, by evaluating their effect on the progression of lupus-like disease in NZB × NZW (NZB/NZW) mice. Methods We repeatedly treated mice with suppressive ODN before or after the onset of proteinuria. We monitored the effect of treatment on the onset, severity, and immunologic correlates of disease. Results Treatment with suppressive ODN significantly prolonged lifespan while delaying the onset and progression of glomerulonephritis in NZB/NZW mice. Clinical improvement was accompanied by a significant reduction in anti–double-stranded DNA autoantibody production and by significantly reduced secretion of interferon-γ and interleukin-12 in vivo. Conclusion Suppressive ODN may be of benefit in the treatment of chronic systemic autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus.
Who's doing it? Sources of public and private computer-aided learning materials for accounting educators

Abstract This paper provides a listing of commercial computer-aided learning materials available to accounting educators from vendors. It also provides a sampling of computer-aided learning materials authored by accounting educators around the world. The purposes of the paper are to reveal trends in such authoring activities by both business firms and accounting educators and researchers.
Compact Ring Cavity Resonator with Two Total Internal Reflection Mirrors and an Integrated Semiconductor Optical Amplifier

We investigate the properties of the multimode interference coupled ring resonator using half ring and two total internal reflection mirrors. Free spectral range and an on-off ratio are 162 GHz and 13 dB, respectively.
Diagnostic utility of the history and physical examination for peripheral vascular disease among patients with diabetes mellitus

Abstract Background: We assessed the value of the medical history and physical examination in the diagnosis of peripheral vascular disease in diabetic subjects. Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study in 631 diabetic veteran enrollees of a general internal medicine clinic that compared data obtained from a history and clinical evaluation with the presence of severe peripheral vascular disease defined as an ankle—arm index (AAI) ≤ 0.5 derived from Doppler blood pressure measurement. Results: We identified 90 limbs with an AAI ≤ 0.5. Results presented below apply to the right leg, but do not differ from the left. Diminished or absent foot peripheral pulses (sensitivity 65%, specificity 78%), venous filling time > 20 sec (sensitivity 22%, specificity 93.9%), age > 65 years (sensitivity 83%, specificity 54%), claudication symptoms in 5 sec or foot characteristics (absent hair, blue/purple color, skin coolness, or atrophy) conveyed little diagnostic information. Individual factors did not change disease probability to a clinically important degree. A stepwise logistic regression model identified four factors significantly (p
Critical temperature and changes in cuticular lipids in the rabbit tick, Haemaphysalis leporispalustris

Abstract The epicuticle in the rabbit tick, Haemaphysalis leporispalustris , appeared to be continuously changing, with deposition and removal of lipids during and after engorgement. These changes were accompanied by corresponding changes in critical temperature. The correlation between changes in critical temperature and composition of cuticular lipids (i.e. changes in the number, types, and relative concentration of lipid classes) suggested that changes in lipid composition could be responsible for changes in critical temperature. A hypothesis, alternative to those of Beament and Locke, is proposed to explain the phenomenon of critical temperature. At critical temperature, certain lipids probably change phase from crystal to liquid crystal, with hydrocarbon chains in a highly mobile condition. The hypothesis is not based on the presence of a water-proofing monolayer, and is supported by transition phenomena known in many lipids.
Effect of body mass index on natriuretic peptide levels in patients with acute congestive heart failure : A ProBNP investigation of dyspnea in the emergency department (PRIDE) substudy

Background Obesity is associated with lower B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels in healthy individuals and patients with chronic congestive heart failure (CHF). Neither the mechanism of natriuretic peptide suppression in the obese patient nor whether obesity affects natriuretic peptide levels among patients with acute CHF is known. Methods The associations of amino-terminal pro-BNP (NT-proBNP), BNP, and body mass index (BMI) were examined in 204 subjects with acute CHF. Multivariable regression analyses were performed to identify factors independently related to NT-proBNP and BNP levels. Results Across clinical strata of normal ( 2 ), overweight (25-29.9 kg/m 2 ), and obese (≥30 kg/m 2 ) patients, median NT-proBNP and BNP levels decreased with increasing BMI (both P values P 2 ) and 15% in obese patients (≥30 kg/m 2 ). Using the standard cut point of 100 pg/mL, BNP testing was falsely negative in 20% of CHF cases in both overweight and obese patients. The assays for NT-proBNP and BNP exhibited similar overall sensitivity for the diagnosis of CHF. Conclusions When adjusted for relevant covariates, compared with normal counterparts, overweight and obese patients with acute CHF have lower circulating NT-proBNP and BNP levels, suggesting a BMI-related defect in natriuretic peptide secretion. NT-proBNP fell below the diagnostic cutoff for CHF less often than BNP in overweight and obese individuals; however, when used as a diagnostic tool to identify CHF in such patients, both markers may have reduced sensitivity.
Koiter-Based Solution for the Initial Post-buckling Behavior of Moderately Thick Orthotropic and Shear Deformable Cylindrical Shells Under External Pressure

The initial post-buckling behavior of moderately thick orthotropic shear deformable cylindrical shells under external pressure is studied by means of Koiter's general post-buckling theory. To this extent, the objective is the calculation of imperfection sensitivity by relating to the initial post-buckling behavior of the perfect structure, since it is generally recognized that the presence of small geometrical imperfections in some structures can lead to significant reductions in their buckling strengths. A shear deformation theory, which accounts for transverse shear strains and rotations about the normal to the shell midsurface, is employed to formulate the shell equations. The initial post-buckling analysis indicates that for several combinations and geometric dimensions, the shell under external pressure will be sensitive to small geometrical imperfections and may buckle at loads well below the bifurcation predictions for the perfect shell. On the other hand, there are extensive ranges of geometrical dimensions for which the shell is insensitive to imperfections, and, therefore it would exhibit stable post-critical behavior and have a load-carrying capacity beyond the bifurcation point. The range of imperfection sensitivity depends strongly on the material anisotropy, and also on the shell thickness and whether the end pressure loading is included or not. For example, for the circumferentially reinforced graphite/epoxy example case studied, it was found that the structure is not sensitive to imperfections for values of the Batdorf length parameter z above ≃ 270, whereas for the axially reinforced case the structure is imperfection-sensitive even at the high range of length values; for the isotropic case, the structure is not sensitive to imperfections above Z ≃ 1000.
Perturbative QCD predictions for large momentum transfer photoproduction

We present the perturbative QCD predictions for the helicity amplitudes for γp → π+n, γp → π0p. γp → π−Δ++, γp → K+ Σ0, γp → K+Λ and γp → ϱ0p, and compare the predicted differential cross sections with existing data. We discuss the sensitivity of the predictions to the choice of wave functions for the pion and nucleon, and propose an improved pion model wave function.
The Optical Quality of Shear Layers: Prediction and Improvement Thereof

Aerodynamic windows, which consist of one or more jets of high velocity gas, are frequently used to allow the extraction of laser beams from the laser cavity when the beam power density is sufficiently high to preclude the use of solid windows. Turbulent shear layers at the edges of the jets can produce random phase errors in the laser beam that can substantially reduce the maximum power density to which the beam can be focused. Improved semiempirical methods of predicting shear layer optical quality, applicable to both low and high Mach number shear layers, are presented and shown to give reasonably good agreement with one set of measurements on compressible shear layers. A number of recommendations for improving the optical quality of shear layers are presented. Some of these recommendations offer the potential for substantial improvements in optical quality.
Observation of new cointercalation compounds in the system Na0.33(H2O)yTaS2 (0 ⩽ y ⩽ 2) from powder X-ray diffraction measurements

A powder X-ray diffraction study of the occurrence of hydrate phases in the system Na0.33(H2O)y,TaS2 (0 ⩽ y ⩽ 2) at ambient temperature is reported. Two new phases were found at y ≈ 0.8 and y ≈ 1.5 in addition to those previously reported at y ≈ 0.67 and y ≈ 1.8. Structural models for these phases are discussed.
Systemically administered N-methyl-D-aspartate interferes with acquisition of a passive avoidance response in rats.

Abstract The effect of several doses of systemically administered N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) was studied on step-through passive avoidance (PA) retention in rats. Retention of single trial PA was significantly reduced by preacquisition (30 minutes) doses of NMDA (3, 10, 30, and 50 mg/kg SC). Preacquisition amnesia was found when NMDA (30 mg/kg SC) was administered between two and 60 minutes. At shorter and longer pretreatment times (0.5 and 180 minutes) NMDA (30 mg/kg SC) did not disrupt retention testing. Across the same dose range and pretreatment times, NMDA failed to interfere with PA retention when given after acquisition or before retention testing. The results suggest that systemic NMDA administration can interfere with the acquisition of PA response but does not alter consolidation of information or retrieval.
Paleomagnetic evidence for motion of the Hawaiian hotspot during formation of the Emperor seamounts

The bend in the Hawaiian-Emperor chain is the best example of a change in plate motion recorded in a fixed-hotspot frame of reference. Alternatively, the bend might record primarily differences in motion of the Hawaiian hotspot relative to the Pacific lithosphere. New paleomagnetic data from the Emperor chain support the latter view. Althouth the rate of motion is difficult to constrain because of uncertainties posed by true polar wander and limited sampling of the chain, the best available paleomagnetic data suggest Pacific hotspots may have moved at rates comparable to those of lithospheric plates (> 30 mm yr−1) in late Cretaceous to early Tertiary times (81-43 Ma). If correct, this requires a major change in how we view mantle dynamics and the history of plate motions. In the early to mid-Cretaceous (128-95 Ma), hotspots in the Atlantic moved at similar rates. These episodes during which groups of hotspots appear to move rapidly are separated by times of much slower motion, such as the past 5 m.y.
Colonic tuberculosis mimicking annular carcinoma: Report of a case

Tuberculosis of the colon may be difficult to distinguish from Crohn's diseases or other causes of benign or malignant stricture, but rarely is seen as a classic solitary “apple-core” lesion on barium-enema examination. Such a case is presented, and the radiologic and pathologic features discussed.
Orthogonal polynomials used as soft tissue energy density functions

Abstract A mathematical method is developed for computing the coefficients of soft tissue energy density polynomials, satisfying certain constraints. The polynomial coefficients are computed in the least squares sense. It is demonstrated that this method: (a) determines up to 30 polynomial coefficients whereas the unmodified least squares method based on Maclaurin power series determines up to nine coefficients; an (b) increases numerical stability and accuracy by several orders of magnitude. All computations are carried out in single precision on a LS1-11/23 laboratory minicomputer. The algorithm is particularly useful for on-line data analysis using small laboratory computers.
Chronic Daily Headache in Children and Adolescents: A 2-Year Prospective Study

Chronic daily headache in children and adolescents has not been well described. We analyzed data for 37 children and adolescents who presented with chronic daily headache to our Pediatric Headache Clinic over a 2-year period. These youngsters had five distinct headache patterns; 40% of them had the “comorbid” pattern, 35% were classified with new daily persistent headache, 15% with transformed migraine, 5% with chronic tension-type headache, and 5% could not be classified. There were no significant differences by diagnosis in externalizing and internalizing behaviors, type A behaviors, disability, pain severity, days missed from school, and number of coping skills employed. Children and adolescents with chronic daily headache have distinct clinical patterns, but for the most part, have similar disability. Differences between adult and childhood chronic daily headache are emphasized.
Encapsulation of poorly soluble drugs in polymer-drug conjugates: Effect of dual-drug nanoformulations on cancer therapy

Purpose Current cancer chemotherapy is gradually shifting to the application of drug combinations that prevent development of drug resistance. Many anticancer drugs have poor solubility and limited oral bioavailability. Using an innovative approach, we developed dual-drug nanoformulations of a polymeric nanogel conjugate with anticancer 5-FU nucleoside analog, floxuridine (FLOX), and the second anticancer drugs, paclitaxel (PCL), or a geldanamycin analog, 17-AAG, for combination therapy.
Implication of Suspicious Cytology in Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Fine-Needle Aspiration for Pancreatic Cancer

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) has become a preferred technique to evaluate pancreatic masses. The clinical management of a “suspicious for adenocarcinoma” cytological diagnosis is unclear in unresectable cases. We sought to determine whether a suspicious diagnosis in the setting of a high clinical suspicion of malignancy could be sufficient for initiating non-operative therapy, such as chemotherapy, in unresectable patients. Twenty-nine solid pancreatic mass cytology specimens obtained by EUS-FNA with a diagnosis of suspicious for adenocarcinoma were identified from 2000 to 2012. Pathology, clinical, and radiologic data were analyzed. Additional procedures were performed in 21 of the 29 patients. Sixteen of the 21 patients had confirmation of malignancy on further tissue sampling and an additional 2 had confirmed unresectable cancers during surgical exploration. Three of the 21 patients had benign diagnoses on subsequent tissue sampling. Of the remaining eight patients who did not undergo additional diagnostic procedures, six were deemed clinically malignant and treated, one died within a year of the EUS-FNA, and one was lost to follow-up. Consideration of a suspicious diagnosis on EUS-FNA of solid pancreatic masses as sufficient for initiating non-operative therapy is reasonable in the setting of a high clinical suspicion of malignancy.
Numerical thermal analyses that contributed to the elimination of turbine blade firtree cracks in the Space Shuttle Main Engine High Pressure Fuel Turbopump turbine

NASA-Marshall has undertaken analytical and experimental efforts to eliminate all turbine blade cracking and further improve the safety and reliability of the SSME. This work is focused on the elimination of cracks at the blade firtree attachment to the disk, in both the first- and second-stage rotors of the High Pressure Fuel Turbopump. Emphasis is placed on thermal analyses that preceded the overall structural evaluation of the blade firtrees. Thermally-induced contributions to the stresses and strains in the firtrees were quantified by these studies, and feasible design improvement options were identified and tested.
Prognostic value of exercise thallium-201 imaging in a community population.

Abstract Background: The prognostic value of exercise thallium-201 imaging has been well established in referral patient populations at tertiary care centers, but these results may be influenced by referral bias. Methods: This study was performed to evaluate the prognostic value of thallium imaging in a community-based population of 446 residents of Olmsted County, Minn. Eleven variables were prospectively selected and tested for their associations with outcome end points. Results: Four variables (age, history of myocardial infarction, number of abnormal thallium segments on the postexercise images, and increased thallium lung uptake) contained the most independent prognostic information. For the end point overall mortality rate, the multivariate chi-square values were 17.2 ( p p Conclusion: Exercise thallium imaging was useful for prognostic purposes in this relatively low-risk community population, confirming the findings of referral population studies. (Am Heart J 1998;135:663-70.)