cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Simple Spirited Scalable E-Learning System

Concept is a major learning activity in a class of software engineering. The success of a practitioner in a technical domain depends much on how he or she is able to contextualize and apply a concept that he or she learned in the classroom. Concept learning has many similarities with vocabulary learning because keywords are used to teach concepts in a technical subject. Traditional vocabulary learning has a strong criticism of being passive, boring and learners' inability for contextualized learning. Hence there are attempts to include fun and active learning in vocabulary learning, because modern education acknowledges that learning with fun contributes to students' success. The e-learning system, proposed in this paper, aims to help students of software engineering master the important concepts of the subject through keywords. The system is modelled on vocabulary learning and includes games to make the learning fun-filled for the students. The architecture of the system is developed based on a learning system and a testing system. The learning system was developed based on simple jigsaw puzzle games and can engage the student to develop the right answer based on hints provided by the system. The testing system has used word cloud and fill-the-blanks method. As the setup of the system is generic, it can be used for any subject and for any level of learners. The researchers made the effort to make the system simple by using jigsaw puzzle and word cloud, spirited by engaging learners actively, and scalable by making the system adaptable for any number of courses by changing only the content.
An Explorations Approach to Summer Bridge at a Selective Liberal Arts College: One Path toward Equalizing Student Success.

College recently restructured its Summer Bridge Program (SBP) course for incoming lowincome (LI) and first-generation (FG) college students from a non-majors’ biology course, “Issues in Biology,” to an interdisciplinary “Explorations in Science” course. Two significant changes were made with the intention of giving students more agency as scholars: a) lab-based research projects vs. library projects and b) explicitly taught quantitative skills. Both courses used a coherent theme, outside readings and provided opportunities to practice study and exam taking skills. Here we describe the “Explorations” course in detail and compare the outcomes of its first two offerings to those of the original “Issues” class. Both SBP cohorts were compared to students who were neither LI nor FG. We learned that global outcomes such as average retention rate and major selection were not affected by the new format. However, students in “Explorations” mastered more quantitative skills, succeeded in their independent research and met higher cognitive skills on exams while tending toward higher grades. Students in the updated SBP course met our learning goals preparing them to apply critical thinking, writing and analytical reasoning skills as learning tools in subsequent classes.
Automated Multidisciplinary Design and Control of Hopping Robots for Exploration of Extreme Environments on the Moon and Mars.

The next frontier in solar system exploration will be missions targeting extreme and rugged environments such as caves, canyons, cliffs and crater rims of the Moon, Mars and icy moons. These environments are time capsules into early formation of the solar system and will provide vital clues of how our early solar system gave way to the current planets and moons. These sites will also provide vital clues to the past and present habitability of these environments. Current landers and rovers are unable to access these areas of high interest due to limitations in precision landing techniques, need for large and sophisticated science instruments and a mission assurance and operations culture where risks are minimized at all costs. Our past work has shown the advantages of using multiple spherical hopping robots called SphereX for exploring these extreme environments. Our previous work was based on performing exploration with a human-designed baseline design of a SphereX robot. However, the design of SphereX is a complex task that involves a large number of design variables and multiple engineering disciplines. In this work we propose to use Automated Multidisciplinary Design and Control Optimization (AMDCO) techniques to find near optimal design solutions in terms of mass, volume, power, and control for SphereX for different mission scenarios.
Self-Care: A Stewardship Perspective.

ABSTRACT What does it mean to practice self-care? How do we care effectively and compassionately for our patients while maintaining our own physical and emotional health? Nursing associations have incorporated the importance of self-care into models for good nursing practice. The perspective on self-care can change from one of self-focus to one of stewardship. Self-care from a stewardship view reflects what God is already doing to take care of us.
An RF Beamforming Architecture for UWB Continuous Time-Delay Control

An RF beamforming architecture is proposed that provides ultra-wideband continuous true-time delay (TTD) for timed array beam-steering. The architecture relies on a unique Rotman lens multi-beamformer core and a simple electronic network consisting of a few power dividers, switches and variable attenuators (or amplifiers) that are responsible for moving the beam-port phase center around the lens beam arc. This continuous movement is translated into TTD control at the array ports by the optics of the lens. Full-wave simulations suggest 10–30 GHz operation with good input and output VSWR, excellent beam-pointing error and 3.7dB to 8dB insertion loss.
IV. ComputationalMetho ds for the Simulation of Classical and Quantum Many Body Systems Arising from Nonextensive Thermostatistics

This chapter presents a variety of computational methods that make use of essential features of the non-extensive thermostatistics proposed by Tsallis. The basic properties of the non-extensive thermostatistics are derived and discussed in the context of the law of mass action and reaction kinetics. Those results are used to motivate and derive Monte Carlo and Molecular Dynamics algorithms which isolate low lying energy minima or effectively sample the extensive or non-extensive thermostatistical distributions. Algorithmic protocols are defined for cases of equilibrium sampling and simulated annealing for both classical and quantum simulations of many body systems. A practical method for the optimization of the resulting simulation algorithms is described. A method for global optimization based on the simulated annealing Cauchy-Lorentz “density packets” is also presented. Applications to a variety of problems related to simulated annealing and enhanced sampling in the context of model, spin, atomic and biomolecular systems are discussed.
Note on the parameterization of the constant-phase admittance element

Abstract Some background is presented on the constant-phase admittance element, frequently used as part of a circuit for fitting immitance data on solid electrolytes. Several alternate ways of writing an expression for the constant-phase element are discussed and compared, and it is suggested that one particular parameterization seems preferably to the others.
Abstract 108: Long-Term Outcome of Giant Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms

Introduction: Giant intracranial aneurysms are uncommon, have a high risk for rupture and are difficult to treat. The International Study of Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms (ISUIA) prospective cohort included 187 patients with maximal diameter of 25 mm or greater. This analysis was to determine the long-term prognosis of these aneurysms both treated and untreated. Methods: Patients were enrolled into ISUIA at 61 centers from 1991-1998. A prospective cohort included the managed with observation, surgery or endovascular treatment. Patients were followed for a median of 9.2 years. Aneurysms were measured using a central reading of bi-planar cerebral angiography. Outcomes were determined prospectively and with central review. Results: 187 patients with a maximum diameter of 25 mm were followed. The mean size was 30.3 mm, ranging from 25 to 63 mm. 39% of the aneurysms were surgically treated at baseline, 27% were endovascularly treated, and 32% were managed conservatively;3% had subsequent endovascular treatment and 5% surgical treatment. Patients with giant aneurysms were predominantly women (83%), had a baseline Rankin Score of in 93%, were located predominantly in the anterior circulation (internal carotid 44%, cavernous ICA 28%, middle cerebral 12%). 80% of the patients were symptomatic with cranial nerve deficit in 47% (III and VI nerves), mass effect in 16%, headaches in 44%, orbital pain in 21%, and vision loss in 25%. Smoking history was present in 67%, hypertension in 44%, vascular headaches in 29% and family history in 10%. 70 patients (39%) died during follow-up however 59% were still Rankin 1 or 2. Both surgical and endovascular treated patients had 60-64% good outcome and 34-36% mortality. Untreated patients had a 57% mortality. Subarachnoid hemorrhage occurred in 11 untreated patients and 12 treated patients with most occurring in the first year. Conclusions: Giant intracranial aneurysms are typically symptomatic, and have a high risk of rupture early after diagnosis. Outcome was similar with surgical and endovascular treatment but post-procedure hemorrhage did occur.
On the interaction between ferromagnetic annulus and superconducting vortices

The screening currents induced in a superconducting film by a magnetic annulus whose magnetization is perpendicular to the superconductor are calculated. We show that close to the superconductor transition temperature Tc particular values of the magnetization and radii of the annulus make the creation of superconducting vortices energy favorable. We also show that the magnetic annulus offers an alternative tool for vortex pinning in the superconductor. Statistical mechanical properties of this system are discussed.
Clinical Classification of Periodontitis in Adolescents and Young Adults

THE AIM OF THIS STUDY was to determine the degree to which clinical classifications based on cross-sectional assessments endure in the course of development of early-onset periodontitis (EOP), and to introduce new criteria which might improve the clinical classification of these diseases. Subjects with EOP and a matched group without EOP were identified within a national probability sample examined during the 1986/87 survey of US schoolchildren. Of these, 265 subjects (mean age 16 years) were re-examined during the 1992/93 school year. The clinical attachment level of teeth was assessed, and the individuals were classified into localized juvenile periodontitis (LJP), generalized juvenile periodontitis (GJP), incidental attachment loss (IAL), and no-periodontitis groups using three classification methods previously described. A fourth method that considered the extent and severity of attachment loss and the number of missing teeth was introduced to classify the individuals at baseline and at follow-up as having localized, generalized, or incidental EOP, and no-periodontitis groups. Furthermore, the individuals were classified using criteria based on the rate and pattern of change in attachment loss during 6 years. The results showed low correlations between the baseline classifications and the classifications at the 6-year follow-up examination, irrespective of the method used. In addition, the cross-sectional classifications were not predictive of the rate of progression of periodontal disease in these subjects. In the generalized disease group, two-thirds of the individuals exhibited moderate/rapid disease progression, while one-third had slow or no progression. In the localized disease group, one-half of the individuals had moderate/rapid disease progression and one-half had slow or no progression. In the incidental disease group one-fourth of the individuals had moderate/rapid disease progression and three-fourths had slow or no progression. We propose that the term early-onset periodontitis be used as a generic term to describe periodontal disease before its normal onset. In addition, we suggest that incidental, localized, and generalized EOP are heterogenous groups comprising rapidly and slowly progressing forms within each classification. The findings suggest that a classification system in which subsets of the disease that are defined according to a combination of cross-sectional criteria and the disease progression may be useful in studies of EOP. Furthermore, the findings suggest that clinical classifications of EOP be used as generic descriptors until a full understanding of the pathogenesis of this disease is accomplished.
Experimental Obesity in Man. III. Adrenocortical Function

Several indices of adrenal function were studied in normal lean males who gained weight by overeating. In 9 subjects, cortisol production rates were increased after weight gain (p < 0.05). The pattern of conversion of cortisol to various metabolites was unchanged following gain in weight. In an additional 5 subjects, urine 17-hydroxycorticosteroids (17-OHCS) were also increased after weight gain (p < 0.06), and plasma cortisol concentrations were unchanged. When cortisol production rates and 17-OHCS excretion were related to body weight or creatinine excreted, the increase in adrenocortical function is not significant. It is concluded that the increased adrenocortical function observed in spontaneous obesity can be reproduced in normal subjects who gain weight by overeating. However, in these studies, we cannot dissociate the effects of gain in weight from those of increased caloric intake or change in the composition of the antecedent diet.
Vibrational spectra and barrier to internal rotation of BCl2SH and BCl2SD

Abstract Recent interest in SH(D) derivatives of BCl3 prompted a vibrational study of BCl2SH and BCl2SD. Raman spectra of the liquid and gas phases were recorded from 100 to 2700 cm−1. Infrared spectra of the vapors were recorded from 200 to 2700 cm−1. All nine fundamentals were observed and assigned for both molecules. The observation of seven polarized and two depolarized Raman bands confirms the planar configuration. The infrared vapor spectra shows the fundamental and three hot bands of the SH(D) torsional vibration. A comparison of our spectral results with an earlier study is presented. The structure of the infrared torsional band allowed calculation of the barrier to internal rotation. Barrier values of 11.8 and 12.4 kcal/mole were calculated for the protonated and deuterated molecules, respectively, utilizing the V = ( V 2 2 ) (1 − cos 2φ) potential. Potential barrier values of 10.2 and 9.9 kcal/mole were obtained with the quartic potential, V = A (z4 + Bz2). The two different potential barrier calculations afforded an evaluation of the choice of potentials for double minimum systems with high barriers. A barrier of about 11 ± 3 kcal/mole is estimated for this species. Thermodynamic functions were also calculated.
Highly Conductive Multifunctional Graphene Polycarbonate Nanocomposites

Graphene nanosheet−bisphenol A polycarbonate nanocomposites (0.027−2.2 vol %) prepared by both emulsion mixing and solution blending methods, followed by compression molding at 287 °C, exhibited dc electrical percolation threshold of ∼0.14 and ∼0.38 vol %, respectively. The conductivities of 2.2 vol % graphene nanocomposites were 0.512 and 0.226 S/cm for emulsion and solution mixing. The 1.1 and 2.2 vol % graphene nanocomposites exhibited frequency-independent behavior. Inherent conductivity, extremely high aspect ratio, and nanostructure directed assembly of the graphene using PC nanospheres are the main factors for excellent electrical properties of the nanocomposites. Dynamic tensile moduli of nanocomposites increased with increasing graphene in the nanocomposite. The glass transition temperatures were decreased with increasing graphene for the emulsion series. High-resolution electron microscopy (HR-TEM) and small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) showed isolated graphene with no connectivity path for i...
Joint design of multi-resolution codes and intra/inter-layer network coding

In this paper, we study the joint design of multi-resolution (MR) coding and network coding. In the network coding model, we present two coding schemes, intra-layer and inter-layer network coding and use two elements as design parameters: 1) redundancy at different layer; 2) whether to code within a layer or across layers. Two metrics, average distortion and total redundancy, are used to characterize quality and efficiency. We define the notion of redundancy plane and provide coding strategies based on this plane. We show that inter-layer coding is always better or at least as good as intra-layer coding in the whole redundancy plane. Our coding strategies give guidelines for choosing between the two coding schemes in different situations and how to replace inter-layer coding with intra-layer coding while achieving the same performance in terms of quality and efficiency.
A carbon-based method for estimating the wetness of forest surface soil horizons

The degree of wetness in forest surface soils has an effect on chemical and biological processes but is not easily measured. The high spatial variability in carbon (C) concentration creates high variability in water-holding capacity, and gravimetric water content is not informative. Local hydrology can create patchiness in soil moisture, with saturated soils often found near well-drained ones. When sampling to measure such factors as nitrification potential, it would be advanta- geous to have a simple metric that reflects the relative wetness of the soil. The relationship between C concentration (range 51.5-520.8 gkg -1 ) and gravimetric water content was found to be linear for a set of 113 H- and A-horizon samples assumed to be at field capacity. The wetness ratio is defined as the actual water content of a sample divided by the water content predicted by the least squares regression equation based on C concentration (soil water content (kgkg -1 ) = 0.080 + 0.0057 soil C concentration (gkg -1 )). Soil moisture retention curves were developed for a small number of samples in the range of 0 to about -10 kPa and showed that the equation predicted that water would be held at relatively high potential. In samples taken from 10 watersheds in the northeastern USA, wetness ratios between 1.25 and 3.1 were associated with soils identified in the field as ranging from wet to boglike. A median ratio of 0.49 was found in a watershed sampled after an extended dry period. At the Sleepers River Research Watershed, high wetness ratios were associated with a high soil calcium concentration, presumably from enriched groundwater. The ratio should be a useful measurement in watershed studies.
Conditionally positive definite functions and Laplace-Stieltjes integrals

Abstract In this paper, we characterize those functions that are conditionally positive definite on Euclidean spaces R d for all d = 1, 2, ..., as certain Laplace-Stielties integrals.
Aligning resources to fight HIV/AIDS in the United States: funding to states through the US Department of Health and Human Services.

BACKGROUND In response to the first U.S. National HIV/AIDS Strategy released in July 2010, we assessed how HIV/AIDS funding is spent by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and how these resources align geographically with the HIV/AIDS epidemic according to various measures. METHODS Estimated FY2010 spending information was gathered from HHS agencies, including state/territory-level spending by prevention, care, and treatment services of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) - as well as Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). HHS funding is presented descriptively by state in the context of living HIV and AIDS case numbers and rates. RESULTS Nearly US$16 billion went to discretionary and entitlement spending, 77% of which supported or provided care and treatment by CMS (Medicare, Medicaid) and HRSA; the remainder to research, prevention, and other activities. For states and territories overall, funding was highly correlated with living AIDS case numbers (R(2) = .88) as well as living HIV case numbers (R(2) = .84); funding was far less correlated with case rates (per 100,000 population) for AIDS (R(2) = .35) or HIV (R(2) = .42). CONCLUSIONS HHS HIV/AIDS funding, overall, is well correlated with the number of HIV/AIDS cases in each state/territory. Future assessments should capture information on who is being served, where, and how.
A characterization of Robertson-Walker spaces by null sectional curvature

ForN a null vector andA a vector perpendicular toN, define the null sectional curvature, with respect to TV, of the planeN ΛA ask N(N ΛA) = 〈R(N,A)A,N〉∼<A,A∼.Then Robertson-Walker metrics can be locally characterized as those for whichk n at each point is a constant for all the null plans at that point (in each null direction,N must be appropriately chosen). A global characterization of Robertson-Walker spaces is achieved by adding completeness and causality hypotheses.
Adoptive cell transfer: a clinical path to effective cancer immunotherapy

Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) using autologous tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes has emerged as the most effective treatment for patients with metastatic melanoma and can mediate objective cancer regression in approximately 50% of patients. The use of donor lymphocytes for ACT is an effective treatment for immunosuppressed patients who develop post-transplant lymphomas. The ability to genetically engineer human lymphocytes and use them to mediate cancer regression in patients, which has recently been demonstrated, has opened possibilities for the extension of ACT immunotherapy to patients with a wide variety of cancer types and is a promising new approach to cancer treatment.
Regulation of acinar cell function in the pancreas.

Purpose of reviewThis review identifies and puts into context the recent articles which have advanced understanding of the functions of pancreatic acinar cells and the mechanisms by which these functions are regulated.Recent findingsReceptors present on acinar cells, particularly those for cholecyst
Nitrogen nutrition of white rose potato in relation to vegetative growth and mineral content of leaves and roots

Abstract White Rose potato plants were transplanted to nutrient solutions provided vith nine treatments of Ca(NO3)2 ranging from 0 to 64 mmoles per liter. Eighteen days later, symptoms of N‐deficiency ranging from very severe to none vere observed. The plants at this time were harvested, and leaves were sampled, oven dried, ground, and then analysed for K, Na, Ca, Mg, NO3‐N, and acetic acid soluble H2PO2‐P. Shoot and fibrous root growth increased with nitrate supply to an optimum, and then decreased with increased nitrate supply, suggesting nitrate toxicity due to the high nitrate supply of the nutrient solution. The nitrate content of the tissues increased with increased nitrate supply. Toxicity due to excess nitrate was associated with a very high nitrate content of the leaf tissues. The critical NO3‐N concentration at a 10% reduction in vegetative growth due to N‐deficiency is about 2000 ppm (0.2%) on a dry basis for the petioles and about 300 ppm (0.03%) for the blades of recently matured leaves.
“Cellular” vs. “detrital” POM: a preliminary study using fluorescent stains, flow cytometry, and mass spectrometry

Abstract The mass of nonliving particulate organic matter (POM) in marine waters can be significantly greater than that in living cells, yet very little is known about the composition and ultimate fate of this “detrital” POM. In recent marine chemistry studies, flow cytometry has been used to provide further insights into the composition, source, and fate of chlorophyll-fluorescing POM (which includes living algal cells) vs. detrital POM within natural waters. In this study, we extend such morphological characterization of POM beyond the use of chlorophyll autofluorescence and particle size or light scatter. Instead, nucleic acid staining with SYTO-13 and flow cytometry sorting were used to identify and isolate “cellular” and “detrital” subclasses of POM from samples collected in the Lafayette River and the Elizabeth River (subestuaries in the lower Chesapeake Bay). The resulting subclasses, as well as aliquots of unsorted POM sample, were then analyzed by direct temperature-resolved mass spectrometry. We show that “cellular” and “detrital” subclasses differ significantly from each other, and that detrital POM appears chemically distinct from the bulk POM. We then suggest further applications for flow cytometry approaches in aquatic organic biogeochemistry.
Methylation of cadmium with vitamin B12: A possible method of detoxification

Abstract The in vitro reaction between Vitamin Methyl B12 and CdCl2 was studied at pH 9.6. Volatile cadmium compounds such as Cd(CH3)2 were sought using a G.C.‐A.A. system designed for such studies. Low concentrations (2 × 10‐9 g Cd) of volatile Cd compounds were detected but characterization was not possible by G.C.‐M.S. because of the low concentration.
More than Just Hand Waving: Review of Hearing Gestures: How Our Hands Help Us Think

Susan Goldin-Meadow's Hearing Gestures: How Our Hands Help Us to Think synthesizes findings from various domains to demonstrate that gestures convey meaning and comprise a critical and fundamental form of communication. She also argues convincingly for the cognitive utility of gesture for the gesturer. Goldin-Meadow presents an airtight case that gesture is more than just hand waving and serves as an essential tool for studying the mind.
From marginality to integration: Appropriation of space through sociolinguistic competence in Laila Wadia’s Amiche per la pelle:

In her novel Amiche per la pelle, Indian-Italian writer Laila Wadia tells the stories of four immigrant women as they learn Italian in Trieste. Wadia uses space to define the characters’ marginality, and to describe their journey as they seek integration into society. The depiction of space is also employed by Wadia to hint at the potential for the literature of migration in Italian to become an integral part of Italian literature. The article analyzes the learning experience of the four women within the sociolinguistic framework of the community of practice. The acquisition of sociolinguistic competence allows the apprentice in the community of practice to move from a peripheral, marginal position to a more central one. According to the author, Wadia points to a possible and desirable future when migrants find a central space and gain full membership in the community of practice of their adopted country through mutual engagement and shared goals, just as literature of migration in Italian will one day fi...
Did the Pathogen Reduction and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points Regulation Cause Slaughter Plants to Exit

Our multiperiod analysis tested whether the 1996 Pathogen Reduction and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points food safety regulation affected the probability of slaughter plant exit. We estimated probit models using pooled plant-level datasets for the preimplementation, implementation, and postimplementation periods. Results suggest that very small and small meat slaughter plants were more likely to exit during implementation than during preimplementation but less likely after implementation. In contrast, the results suggest the regulation had little effect on the probability of very small and small poultry slaughter plant exit during implementation but may have affected the probability of exit postimplementation.
Oxotremorine antagonism by prolyl-leucyl-glycine-amide administered by different routes and with several anticholinergics.

Abstract Prolyl-leucyl-glycine amide (PLG) was given by oral, intravenous, or subcutaneous routes of administration and shown to antagonize the central and peripheral effects of oxotremorine. The previously demonstrated action of PLG in this system when injected intraperitoneally in a single dose was found to be unchanged when administered by the same route for five consecutive days. Although three anticholinergic compounds were also effective in reducing the effects of oxotremorine, no interactions between PLG and trihexyphenidyl hydrochloride, benzotropin mesylate, or scopolamine were observed. The results confirm and extend the demonstration of the extra-endocrine effects of PLG.
Synthesis, Characterization and Cleavage of Surface-Bound Linear Polymers Formed Using Thiol-Ene Photopolymerizations

The formation of linear polymer films using thiol−ene photopolymerizations was investigated by grafting thiol−ene films on the surface with subsequent cleavage and polymer analysis. Silica nanoparticles were first modified with an acrylated silane molecule, and then a dithiol was reacted to this surface using a base catalyzed thiol−acrylate conjugate addition reaction to prepare a uniform surface presenting thiol groups attached to the surface with a cleavable ester linkage. Photopolymerization of difunctional thiol and ene monomers present in various stoichiometric ratios was carried out in the presence of the nanoparticles, and a thiol−ene film was attached to the surface. The polymer film was cleaved from the surface using acid-catalyzed hydrolysis and separated from the particles. It was found that the particle presence does not affect the polymerization of thiol−ene polymers in bulk; however, the presence of surface thiols changes the relative stoichiometry of the thiol and ene monomers at the surfac...
Power losses in the lubricating gap between cylinder block and valve plate of swash plate type axial piston machines

AbstractThe lubricating gaps are the primary source of energy dissipation in piston machines. The paper presents results of a simulation study that investigates the effect that a wave-like micro surface shape variation applied to the valve plate gap surface has on power loss in the cylinder block-valve plate interface. Special attention is given to the relation between gap height, operating parameters, surface design and power loss. The effect of waved surface amplitude and frequency is also studied. Results indicate that power loss in the cylinder block-valve plate interface can be reduced by over 50% on account of the waved surface compared to the standard cylinder block-valve plate interface design. The effect of the waved surface is most significant at low operating pressures. A special in-house code has been used for this research study. The simulation model covers fluid-structure interaction and micro motion of the cylinder block resulting from oscillating piston forces. Details of the model are exp...
Modeling alcohol use disorder severity: an integrative structural equation modeling approach.

Background: Alcohol dependence is a complex psychological disorder whose phenomenology changes as the disorder progresses. Neuroscience has provided a variety of theories and evidence for the development, maintenance, and severity of addiction; however, clinically, it has been difficult to evaluate alcohol use disorder (AUD) severity. Objective: This study seeks to evaluate and validate a data-driven approach to capturing alcohol severity in a community sample. Method: Participants were non-treatment seeking problem drinkers (n = 283). A structural equation modeling (SEM) approach was used to (a) verify the latent factor structure of the indices of AUD severity; and (b) test the relationship between the AUD severity factor and measures of alcohol use, affective symptoms, and motivation to change drinking. Results: The model was found to fit well, with all chosen indices of AUD severity loading significantly and positively onto the severity factor. In addition, the paths from the alcohol use, motivation, and affective factors accounted for 68% of the variance in AUD severity. Greater AUD severity was associated with greater alcohol use, increased affective symptoms, and higher motivation to change. Conclusions: Unlike the categorical diagnostic criteria, the AUD severity factor is comprised of multiple quantitative dimensions of impairment observed across the progression of the disorder. The AUD severity factor was validated by testing it in relation to other outcomes such as alcohol use, affective symptoms, and motivation for change. Clinically, this approach to AUD severity can be used to inform treatment planning and ultimately to improve outcomes.
Conoscopic Alignment Methods for Birefringent Optical Elements in Fusion Lasers

The alignment of birefringent crystals for use as wave plates and nonlinear frequency converters in high-power, low-repetition-rate laser systems, such as those used for laser fusion, is greatly facilitated through the use of convergent light (conoscopy). In such laser systems, a long shot cycle is necessary to allow laser amplifiers time to thermally equilibrate in order to produce beams of adequate wavefront quality. It is therefore essential that crystal parameters such as phase-matching angle and location of principle axes be determined off-line, and a method developed to easily transfer the alignment to the fusion laser system. Conoscopic methods1–3 have been used for the off-line alignment of two such devices in the 60-beam OMEGA4 laser system because of the simplicity and accuracy of such techniques. Both devices, of which 60 each are required, currently incorporate 30-cm-diam × 1-cm-thick KDP plates with the crystalline optic axis at 59° to the surface normal.
National trends in minimally invasive and open operative experience of graduating general surgery residents: implications for surgical skills curricula development?

Abstract Background The aim of this study was to analyze national trends in minimally invasive and open cases of all graduating residents in general surgery. Methods A retrospective analysis was performed on data obtained from Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education logs (1999–2008) of graduating residents from all US general surgery residency programs. Data were analyzed using Mantel-Haenszel χ 2 tests and the Bonferroni adjustment to detect trends in the number of minimally invasive and open cases. Results Minimally invasive procedures accounted for an increasing proportion of cases performed (3.7% to 11.1%, P P Conclusions The results of this study demonstrate that general surgery residents in the United States are performing a greater number of minimally invasive and fewer open procedures for common surgical conditions.
Open source, crowd source: harnessing the power of the people behind our libraries

– The purpose of this paper is to provide an insight into the use of Web 2.0 and Library 2.0 technologies so that librarians can combine open source software with user‐generated content to create a richer discovery experience for their users., – Following a description of the current state of integrated library systems (ILS) and the developments with Web 2.0 and Library 2.0 technologies, examples are given of library suppliers and libraries which are making use of these technologies., – Libraries are moving away from the traditional, vendor‐sourced library catalogue software in favour of open source software that can be tailored to meet the community's needs by the people who are most familiar with those needs: library staff. Open source products and some vendor products outside the traditional ILS market allow libraries to pool data created by users: tags, reviews, comments. This allows the smallest libraries to harvest richer data than those of their own communities., – The paper provides a “snapshot” of current developments in this fast‐moving area.
Effects of pentachlorophenol on invertebrates and fish in outdoor experimental channels

Abstract Pentachlorophenol (PCP) was selected to assess the applicability of a toxicant criterion concentration for protecting aquatic communities in outdoor experimental channels. The criterion concentration was derived from on site laboratory bioassays. In 1982 three channels were continuously dosed with PCP for 12 wk at nominal concentrations of 48 μg/l (low, criterion level), 144 μg/l (medium, 3 × criterion) and 432 μg/l (high, 9 × criterion). In 1983 the low and medium treatments were repeated for 12 wk. Each year an untreated channel served as control. Invertebrate responses measured were changes in density, community composition and drift; fish responses were changes in survival, growth, reproduction and larval drift. Some ecosystem effects were detected at all treatment levels with fish being the most sensitive animals. Microinvertebrate densities were lower in the medium PCP channel than the control. Survival of the snail Physa gyrina was substantially reduced in the high treatment channel; no other macroinvertebrates were adversely affected by the toxicant. All fathead minnows and bluegill sunfish stocked in the high treatment channel died within the first 8 days of dosing. Fish survival was similar in all remaining channels. Fish growth and larval drift were lower in the treated channels than in the control channels and spawning was reduced in the medium dose channels. The numbers of fathead minnows collected both years from the medium dose channels were lower than the criterion and control channels. Highest numbers of bluegills were recovered from the control channels. The study indicated that the criterion concentration derived from laboratory tests did not fully protect the animals in the experimental channels.
The reaction of acetylcholinesterase (AChe) with some quaternary hydroxy aminophenols.

Abstract A series of mono- and diquaternary hydroxyl derivatives of quinolinol, isoquinolinol, and stilbazole were synthesized. The dimethylcarbamyl and diethylphosphoryl analogs of these hydroxyl compounds are potent anticholinesterase agents. The anticholinesterase properties of the hydroxyl analogs were evaluated by measuring the values of their competitive and noncompetitive binding constants for the reaction with electric eel acetylcholinesterase. The p K a values were also measured. When compared to the nonhydroxylated reference compounds, the addition of the OH group was found to increase binding of the undissociated species to free AChe (competitive component). These derivatives are generally more poorly bound to the acetyl enzyme (noncompetitive component), and the diquaternary compounds are less potent than their monoquaternary analogs. The values of the binding constants for the reaction of the undissociated forms of the inhibitor with the enzyme were found to correlate qualitatively with the second-order rate constants for carbamylation of the enzyme by the dimethylcarbamyl analogs, but not with the constants for phosphorylation by the diethylphosphoryl compounds. The latter compounds have been shown to correlate well with the p K a value of the quaternary hydroxyl derivatives.
Managing tropical agroforestry for conservation of flocking migratory birds

Agroforestry systems have great potential to conserve biodiversity in highly-altered tropical landscapes. Although certain types of agroforestry, such as shade-coffee and cacao, are well known to support a diverse assemblage of resident and migratory birds, the ability of silvopastures to contribute to bird conservation is poorly understood. Important physiognomic differences among agroforestry systems suggest that the most effective habitat management strategies to support migratory birds may likewise differ. We surveyed two common agroforestry systems, shade-coffee plantations and silvopastures, in the Colombian Andes from 2011 to 2013 to identify which physiognomic features were most heavily associated with use by mixed-species flocks and migratory birds. Contrary to our expectations, the same management strategies may perform well in both systems. Flock activity increased with increasing canopy cover and tree density in both shade-coffee and silvopastoral systems. In addition, abundances of several migratory bird species within flocks increased with tree basal area and structural complexity, indicating that complex agroforests with a mid-range of canopy cover will provide the most suitable habitat for migrants attending mixed-species flocks. Our study suggests that suitability of shade-coffee and silvopastoral systems can be improved for overwintering migrants by increasing canopy cover to 25–40 % and incorporating emergent shade trees to produce a basal area of >5 m2/ha.
Peri-operative management of severe thyrotoxicosis with esmolol.

Summary A case of severe thyrotoxicosis with cardiac decompensation is reported. Use of propranolol was followed by cardiovascular collapse. Esmolol, the beta-1 adrenoceptor blocking agent was successfully used to control the thyrotoxic state. A discussion of possible advantages of esmolol is provided.
Modelling drug market supply disruptions: Where do all the drugs not go?

Abstract Drug producing regions often supply several geographically distinct drug consumption markets. Disruptions of opium cultivation in Afghanistan and cocaine production in Colombia show that consumption reductions can be much smaller in some final markets than are reductions in cultivation. This paper derives a model for predicting how production deficits will be “allocated” across downstream markets in the form of reduced use. Plausible parameterization suggests that for cocaine, markets outside the US may serve as a sort of “shock absorber”, partially shielding US markets from sharp fluctuations in consumption. One implication is that multi-lateral efforts may be appropriate for source country control.
Evaluation of the Safety and Efficacy of Periodontal Applications of a Living Tissue-Engineered Human Fibroblast- Derived Dermal Substitute. I. Comparison to the Gingival Autograft: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study

Background: Periodontists have found the gingival autograft to be an effective and predictable technique to increase the amount of attached gingiva around teeth, but this technique requires the surgeon to harvest donor tissue from a remote surgical site. The present study seeks to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a tissue-engineered skin equivalent, a living human fibroblast-derived dermal substitute (HF-DDS), compared to a gingival autograft (GA) consisting of donor tissue harvested from the patient's palate in a procedure designed to increase the amount of keratinized tissue around teeth that do not require root coverage. Methods: Twenty-five patients with insufficient attached gingiva associated with at least two teeth in contralateral quadrants of the same jaw were treated. One tooth in each patient was randomized to receive either a GA (control) or a HF-DDS graft (test). Clinical parameters measured at baseline and 3, 5, 7, 9, and 12 months included recession, clinical attachment level, kerat...
Progress in understanding the enhanced pedestal H-mode in NSTX

This paper describes the enhanced pedestal (EP) H-mode observed in the National Spherical Torus Experiment (NSTX). The defining characteristics of EP H-mode are given, namely (i) transition after the L- to H-mode transition, (ii) region of very steep ion temperature gradient, and (iii) associated region of strong rotational shear. A newly observed long-pulse EP H-mode example shows quiescent behaviour for as long as the heating and current drive sources are maintained. Cases are shown where the region of steep ion temperature gradient is located at the very edge, and cases where it is shifted up to 10 cm inward from the plasma edge; these cases are united by a common dependence of the ion temperature gradient on the toroidal rotation frequency shear. EP H-mode examples have been observed across a wide range of q95 and pedestal collisionality. No strong changes in the fluctuation amplitudes have been observed following the EP H-mode transition, and transport analysis indicates that the ion thermal transport is comparable to or less than anticipated from a simple neoclassical transport model. Cases are shown where EP H-modes were reliably generated, though these low-q95 examples were difficult to sustain. A case where an externally triggered edge localized mode (ELM) precipitates the transition to EP H-mode is also shown, though an initial experiment designed to trigger EP H-modes in this fashion was unsuccessful.
IPC in the new millennium – challenge and opportunity

While lauding the efforts of the founding fathers of the International Patent Classification (IPC) in creating an international system for, primarily, patent specification placement and retrieval, the USPTO here also express strong reservations about its future value unless substantial changes are made. Problems highlighted are: • Inconsistent placement of patent documents in the system severely limits the IPC’s value and utility. • IPC system presentation makes it difficult to locate related art. • Advantage of patent family information is not taken in patent document placement. • The backfile of patent documents is not reclassified when a new IPC edition issues. • Classifications containing a very large number of patent documents have resulted from the IPC system’s revision process. • IPC indexing procedures are prohibitively expensive to follow. • No interface between the Standing Committee on Information Technology (SCIT) and the IPC now exists. Solutions proposed are: • Provide rules of placement and proof of concept. • Require either previous in-office use, or a test phase, prior to approving proposals for projects. • Improve access to training. • Investigate automated tools for indexing, schedule generation and document placement. • Investigate use of concepts found in existing tools, e.g., DE, EP, JP, UK, US systems. • Reclassify the backfile for all new reclassification projects and begin using the new classifications as the projects are completed. • Augment WIPO IPC support resources. • Use contractors or member offices for creating search tools, classifications and placing documents. • Defray expenses by per-document assessment. • Provide means for more effective participation by the IPC Committee of Experts in IPC improvement. • Coordinate efforts of IPC with SCIT to take advantage of new tools, methods and opportunities provided. Finally, Appendix A discusses in more detail the value of discretionary and non-discretionary indexing. A new concept is proposed, the alternative or supplemental use of ‘catch terms’, linked to each IPC term.
Determining the relative efficiency of MBA programs using DEA

Abstract Data envelopment analysis (DEA) is used here to determine the relative efficiency of 24 top ranked US MBA programs. Efficiency scores were determined using three output sets of the MBA programs: output that measured student satisfaction, output that measured recruiter satisfaction and output that measured both. DEA is also used here to determine the relative efficiency of three foreign MBA programs as compared to several top ranking US MBA programs. The publicized ranking of MBA programs by national magazines has a significant impact on corporate recruiters, potential MBA students and on business schools themselves. A new ranking based on DEA will more completely and accurately represent MBA programs. Further, DEA will make it possible to more fairly compare specific programs.