cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pediatric Stroke Alert System for Quality Improvement of Stroke Recanalization (S19.003)

Objective: To investigate benefits of a pediatric stroke alert system. Background: Stroke alert systems allow rapid evaluation and time-sensitive treatment. Stroke is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in children, and although children also benefit from early accurate diagnosis and care, few pediatric stroke alert (PSA) systems exist. With increased awareness of pediatric stroke and acute interventions, we hypothesized that PSA activations would rise over a 5-year period. Design/Methods: A centralized PSA system was initiated at St. Louis Children’s Hospital in 2013. Any healthcare provider may activate PSA for concern of stroke symptoms. A neurology resident immediately evaluates the patient, and in coordination with the stroke-alert attending decides on urgent management. PSA activations were logged in a quality improvement database from January 2013 to September 2018. Data collected included location of patient at time of alert, age, symptoms, PedNIHSS, imaging, and final diagnosis. PSA data from 2013–2015 and 2016–2018 were summarized descriptively and compared using Fisher’s exact test. Results: From 2013 to 2018, 141 stroke alerts were activated with median age 12.96 years. Acute cerebrovascular event was the final diagnosis for 36 (25%) patients, including ischemic stroke (14%), hemorrhagic stroke (2%) and TIA (9%). No child in 2013–2015, but four in 2016–2018 received recanalization therapy, including intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator (n=1) and mechanical thrombectomy (n=3). Most PSA activations occurred from the ED (61%) and inpatient units (20%). There was an almost 3-fold increase in stroke alerts activated between 2013–2015 and 2016–2018 (36 and 105, respectively). The proportion of stroke-mimics did not significantly change over time (P-value 0.102). Besides stroke and TIA, other diagnoses included other neurologic emergencies (20%). Conclusions: Neurologic emergencies, including stroke and TIA, accounted for 43% of all PSA activations. A PSA system provides efficient care for neurologic emergencies and enables time-sensitive recanalization stroke therapy. Disclosure: Dr. Smith has nothing to disclose. Dr. Morris has nothing to disclose. Dr. Noetzel has nothing to disclose. Dr. Agner has nothing to disclose. Dr. Griffith has nothing to disclose. Dr. Guerriero has nothing to disclose. Dr. Guilliams has nothing to disclose.
Hydrogen rich syngas production from oxy-steam gasification of a lignite coal – A design and optimization study

Abstract This study describes an experimental and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) effort towards optimizing: hydrogen rich syngas production and cold gas efficiencies during the thermochemical conversion of a lignite coal using oxygen and steam as gasifying agents. A bubbling bed gasifier was systematically designed, constructed and commissioned to achieve these objectives. The bed temperature was maintained at 1023 K during the gasification testing of the highly reactive lignite coal. The hydrogen levels in the syngas were examined as a function of oxygen, coal and steam flow rates. A maximum hydrogen concentration of 50% (dry-basis) was achieved at low oxygen to carbon ratios and the cold gas efficiencies were in the range 80–90%. The observed experimental trends in syngas compositions and cold gas efficiencies were reasonably well represented by the CFD simulations and compared favorably with data obtained from a transport reactor integrated gasification system. Simulations predicted that the major product gases at the reactor outlet were close to their equilibrium levels. The decrease in hydrogen concentrations in the syngas at high oxygen and steam flow rates resulted from changes in the oxidation reaction rates, hydrodynamics and steam levels. The levels of steam were attaining saturation conditions.
Stress orientations at intermediate angles to the San Andreas Fault, California

[1] There are currently two competing models for the frictional strength of the San Andreas Fault in California: the strong-fault model and the weak-fault model. The strong-fault model predicts the maximum horizontal compressive stress axis to be at low angles to the fault, while the relatively weak fault model predicts it to be at high angles. Previous studies have disagreed as to which model is supported by observed stress orientations. We review and compare these studies and present results from several new focal mechanism stress inversions. We find that the observed stress orientations of different studies are generally consistent, implying that the disagreement is one of interpretation. The majority of studies find compressive stress orientations at intermediate angles to the fault, not strictly consistent with either current model. The strong-fault model is acceptable if the San Andreas is assumed to be a nonoptimally orientated fault that fails because optimally oriented, preexisting planes are not present. The relatively weak fault model is not consistent with the stress orientations. We propose two alternative models to better explain the observed intermediate stress orientations: an intermediate-strength San Andreas model and a model in which all major active faults are weak.
Optimality models in the age of experimental evolution and genomics.

Optimality models have been used to predict evolution of many properties of organisms. They typically neglect genetic details, whether by necessity or design. This omission is a common source of criticism, and although this limitation of optimality is widely acknowledged, it has mostly been defended rather than evaluated for its impact. Experimental adaptation of model organisms provides a new arena for testing optimality models and for simultaneously integrating genetics. First, an experimental context with a well-researched organism allows dissection of the evolutionary process to identify causes of model failure – whether the model is wrong about genetics or selection. Second, optimality models provide a meaningful context for the process and mechanics of evolution, and thus may be used to elicit realistic genetic bases of adaptation – an especially useful augmentation to well-researched genetic systems. A few studies of microbes have begun to pioneer this new direction. Incompatibility between the assumed and actual genetics has been demonstrated to be the cause of model failure in some cases. More interestingly, evolution at the phenotypic level has sometimes matched prediction even though the adaptive mutations defy mechanisms established by decades of classic genetic studies. Integration of experimental evolutionary tests with genetics heralds a new wave for optimality models and their extensions that does not merely emphasize the forces driving evolution.
DNA methylases of Hemophilus influenzae Rd: II. Partial recognition site base sequences

Abstract A small percentage of the adenine bases in Hemophilus influenzae strain Rd DNA are methylated in the 6-amino position. The methyl groups are introduced specifically by at least four different DNA methylases (I, II, III and IV). A method is described for determining the 3′ and 5′ nearest-neighbor bases to methylated adenine so as to reveal the specificity of each methylase. Tritium-labeled methyl groups are introduced into the DNA. The DNA is then digested to dinucleotides using the Bacillus subtilis phage SP3 DNase, followed by removal of the terminal 5′-phosphoryl group with phosphatase to produce dinucleoside monophosphates. These are analyzed by Aminex A25 (Bio-Rad) chromatography. Dinucleoside monophosphate species containing the 3′ neighbor or the 5′ neighbor are resolved so that a trinucleotide is determined that contains the centrally placed methylated adenine. H. influenzae Rd DNA contains seven dinucleoside monophosphate species, about 80% representing GpmA and mApT in approximately equal amount. DNA methylases I, II, III and IV introduce methyl groups into sequences containing the trinucleotides CpmApC, PupmApC, NpmApA and GpmApT, respectively. The sequence methylated by NDA methylase II is consistent with the recognition site determined by Kelly and Smith (1970) for the H. influenzae restriction enzyme, endonuclease R.
Interpreting true arithmetic in the Δ02-enumeration degrees

We show that there is a first order sentence φ( x: a, b, l ) such that for every computable partial order and -degree u > 0 e , there are -enumeration degrees a ≤ u , b , and l such that . Allowing to be a suitably defined standard model of arithmetic gives a parameterized interpretation of true arithmetic in the -enumeration degrees. Finally we show that there is a first order sentence that correctly identifies a subset of the standard models, which gives a parameterless interpretation of true arithmetic in the -enumeration degrees.
Event Representation in Temporal and Geographic Context

Linking digital resources that refer to the same people or places is becoming common. Events are another kind of entity that might be used to link resources in this way. We examine a number of standards for encoding of archival, historical, genealogical, and news information to compare the tools they offer for representing events.
VITA Experiential, Service-Learning, Learned Competencies, And Changed Mindsets

The authors describe how Southern Utah University has integrated the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Voluntary Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program as an experiential service-learning activity for over a decade and a half. First, we describe the value of experiential service-learning. Second, we detail the program, its oversight, its student volunteers, and its purposes. Third, we provide a quantitative assessment of professional competencies based on a sample of 29 recent VITA student volunteers. Fourth, we describe a qualitative analysis of VITA student volunteers perceptions of their participation using content analysis of written essays. And last, we provide a qualitative analysis of 71 tax-clients perceptions of their participation in the program, again using content analysis. Based on our experiences and these results, we conclude that the VITA program is demonstrably beneficial for the institutions social responsibility for benefitting both the student volunteers professional development and communitys lower-income tax filers.
Low-frequency solar radio bursts and their space weather implications

The Sun is a radio emitter in the millimeter to kilometer wavelength range (100s of GHz to a few kHz). The low frequency solar radio bursts are of particular importance, because they are associated with large-scale solar eruptions and the associated interplanetary disturbances such as coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and shocks. The radio bursts are produced by energetic electrons (>1 keV) by nonthermal processes. The radio bursts provide important information not only on the solar disturbances but also on the ambient medium.
On the Relationship Between Enzymatic Enantioselectivity in Organic Solvents and Enzyme Flexibility

The enantioselectivities of subtilisin Carlsberg and α-chymotrypsin suspended in seven anhydrous solvents were determined in the acylation of sec-phenethyl alcohol with vinyl butyrate. In every case, both a dry lyophilized enzyme and one hydrated by a prior exposure to a humid environment were used as asymmetric catalysts in a given solvent. This hydration was found to boost the water content of the enzyme which, in turn, is known to enhance the enzyme's conformational flexibility. These data together resulted in the following correlation: as enzyme flexibility increases, the enantioselectivity decreases or remains the same. This relationship is opposite to that recently claimed for subtilisin by Broos et al. (Broos, J., Visser, A.J.W.G., Engbersen, J.F.J., Verboom, M., van Hock, A. and Reinhoudt, D.N. (1995) J. Am. Chem. Soc., 117, 12657–12663). The basis for their conclusion is critically analyzed herein and found to be questionable.
Shock enhancement effect of lightweight composite structures and materials

Abstract Polymeric foams, textile materials and metallic foams are commonly used lightweight composite structures and materials for personal protective equipment (PPE) and protective structures in the battle field, because of their capabilities in reducing the risk of damages against ballistic impact. Under blast loading, however, a “shock enhancement” phenomenon has been observed in these materials, that is, the transmitted pressure is amplified, rather than attenuated as one would expect. Experimental evidences also demonstrated that covering animals with a layer of foam or textile could markedly increase the severity of lung injury. A number of studies have been published documenting such counter-intuitive effect. This review attempts to compile the state-of-arts and latest advances in this important subject. Experimental investigations on the pressure amplification of the aforementioned materials are summarized. Analytical/computational models that describe this phenomenon, particularly emphasizing on the mechanism and some key parameters affecting shock enhancement behavior, are also included. Finally, limitations of studies reviewed herein are discussed and issues which need to be addressed in further research are highlighted.
The Baroclinic Structure of the Abyssal Circulation

Abstract A simple baroclinic model of the abyssal ocean circulation is formulated in which the reversals of the meridional velocity with depth, and hence the layering of the abyss, is explained by the longitudinal variation of upwelling into the main thermocline. Since the barotropic meridional velocity is connected to the local upwelling velocity by the Sverdrup relation, regions of weak upwelling have meridional velocity fields that are essentially baroclinic. The baroclinic velocities are driven by thermal anomalies that propagate westward by stationary diffusive Rossby waves from regions of vertical strong upwelling in the eastern portion of the basin. These dynamically driven, internally generated vertical velocities produce the layered baroclinic structure in the western interior of the basin. A simple linear model, continuous in the vertical, is developed to illustrate these elements of the conceptual picture.
Problem bank loans, conflicts of interest, and institutions

Abstract I consider problem bank loans as the outcome of decisions made by banks in the dual role they serve as financial intermediaries. This dual role necessarily introduces conflicts of interest that can lead to bank mismanagement and consequently problem bank loans. Because bank activities take place within the tangible and intangible structure of institutions, institutions may affect the quality of bank loans. I consider legal, political, sociological, economic, and banking institutions and explore their contribution to problem bank loans. I find support that a variety of institutions impact the share of bank assets that are non-performing.
DottyToto: a measurement engine for aligning multiprojector display systems

Tiled displays systems built by combining the images from arrays of projectors can provide huge numbers of pixel elements to applications needing to visually represent lots of information. Such applications are already coming into wide usage and include large scientific visualizations, collaborative virtual environments, and rich multimedia spaces. It is, however, difficult to create the illusion of a unified seamless display for a variety of reasons including optical distortion of the individual projector images due to imperfections in the lenses and basic alignment of the projectors. In this paper we describe an efficient and optimized measurement process using inexpensive components that is tolerant of a wide range of imperfections in components and measurement setup (lighting conditions, camera optics, etc.). Our method nonetheless is capable of accurate and detailed measurement of the layout of all projector images, including the generation of a detailed model of the distortions in each projector optical system. It performs these measurements on the entire array of projectors at once. Once the detailed mapping between projector pixels and mural pixels is measured, the resulting relations can be used in any of a number of ways to improve the appearance of images projected on the display.
Optimal and Approximate Policies in Multiperiod, Multilocation Inventory Models with Transshipments

This paper examines the effects on the optimal ordering policy and its cost of allowing for interactions among retail outlets. Specifically, transshipments are allowed as recourse actions occurring after demands are realized but before they must be satisfied. The resultant savings in holding and shortage costs are balanced against the costs of transshipment. A base stock ordering policy is optimal for this model. If the final period base stock order-up-to point is nonnegative, then it will be the base stock order-up-to point for all periods; unfortunately, it can be found analytically only for two special cases, where either the cost parameters are equal at every outlet or there are only two outlets. These two special cases are used to validate a heuristic solution technique employing Monte Carlo integration, which is then compared to an easily calculated base policy in order to gauge the contribution of this model. The additional savings from using this heuristic policy are significant, particularly for problems with many retail outlets and low transshipment costs.
Inhibition of bone growth in vitro by endotoxin: histamine effect.

BECAUSE bacteria are found in close proximity to soft tissue and bone in the oral cavity, it seems logical that bacterial endotoxin could affect the metabolism of bone and contribute to the bone loss seen in periodontal disease. We investigated the effects of bacterial endotoxins on rapidly growing bone in an organ culture system. Also, because there is evidence that histamine affects the activity of endotoxin1–3, we cultured bones in an environment containing both endotoxin and histamine, and found that synthesis of structural protein was inhibited without affecting cell turnover.
Comparison of corrosion pitting under immersion and salt-spray environments on an as-cast AE44 magnesium alloy

The corrosion mechanisms of pitting, intergranular corrosion, and general corrosion were examined on an AE44 magnesium alloy subjected to immersion and salt-spray environments. The two environments show similar trends with respect to weight loss and thickness loss, although the immersion environment induces greater amounts of weight loss of magnesium. With respect to the corrosion mechanisms, the two environments show definitive trends, owing to the continuous presence of water in the immersion environment allowing more and larger pits to form as compared to the salt-spray environment. The immersion environment was more deleterious than the salt-spray environment for magnesium.
Analysis of operations of port using mathematical and simulation modelling

This paper proposes an integer linear programming (ILP) and discrete event simulation (DES) models for minimising the waiting time of ships at Port of X (PoX). The port consists of three docks that accommodate different types of ships. Each dock is facilitated with a fixed number of berths that allow ships to be anchored, and there is a common access channel through which a ship enters or leaves the docks. The objective of this paper is to minimise the waiting time of ships while entering and leaving the port. First, an ILP model is developed to schedule the ships at the port and the effect of ship waiting time is observed. Due to the computational complexity of the ILP model, a DES model is developed. The experimental results indicate that capacity relocation of berths reduced the waiting time of ships by 77% compared to the current scenario.
Volume loss and metasomatism during cleavage formation in carbonate rocks

Abstract Controversy exists regarding the amount of volume loss associated with cleavage development. A combination of geometrical and geochemical techniques provides evidence for contemporaneous passive concentration (volume loss) and metasomatism leading to the formation of cleavage in carbonate lithologies and emphasizes the relationship between observational scales and textural heterogeneity. Comparison of protoliths and weakly- to strongly-cleaved rocks along steep, layer-parallel strain gradients within the Doublespring duplex, Lost River Range, Idaho enables quantitative assessments of geometric transformation and elemental mass transfer accompanying progressive deformation. Geometric finite strain analysis documents shortening in the Z direction at low strains (es 0.15). Unbalanced shortening in Z and Y with extension in X results in volume loss. Geometrically derived volume strain estimates at the 1–4 cm3 scale indicate volumetric dilations of from −2% to −12% in uncleaved to weakly-cleaved rocks, and from −20% to −50% in strongly- to very strongly-cleaved rocks. Small-scale significant volume losses and gains contrast with the estimated volume loss of Sampling scale is also a factor in evaluating the major and trace element and O and C isotope compositions of the variably deformed rocks. Samples collected at the 4–15 cm3 scale reflect mixtures of chemically and mineralogically distinct selvage and microlithon domains. Microdrilling of samples at scales of a few cubic millimeters to 1 cm3 affords examination of chemical and isotopic differences among individual selvages and microlithons. The data for microdrilled samples demonstrate depletion of Ca and 18O and enrichment of K, Al, Si, Ti, Fe, Na, Mg and P in selvages relative to microlithons and nearby undeformed carbonate layers. The enrichments of some elements (Mg, P, Na and possibly Fe) are more compatible with a passive concentration mechanism, whereas the concentrations of other elements, particularly K, Al, Si and Ti, require significant metasomatic addition during deformation. Shifts in O-isotope compositions of deformed samples relative to the protolith δ18O values unequivocally demonstrate open-system behavior during deformation. Trends of deformed samples toward lower δ18O with increasing strain and the δ18O values of veins are compatible with infiltration by H2O-rich fluids with relatively low δ18OV-SMOW (near 0‰). The formation of disjunctive cleavage at the Doublespring duplex occurred by passive concentration resulting from calcite dissolution and related volume loss, and neo-crystallization of illite+kaolinite+quartz±anatase in selvages as a result of metasomatic additions. Chemical and geometric strain softening within selvages likely led to enhanced and preferential fluid flow in selvages.
Mitogen induced cytotoxicity in the nurse shark

Abstract Nurse shark ( Ginglymostoma cirratum ) leukocytes isolated from peripheral blood were demonstrated to possess cytotoxic activity towards xenogeneic marine erythrocyte targets (grey snapper) when stimulated by phytohemagglutinin, concanavalin A, or lipopolysaccharide. These leukocytes when separated on the basis of adherence to glass exhibited a differential cytotoxic effect. Only the adherent population showed significant cytotoxicity toward the target cells in the presence of any of the mitogens. Wright-Giemsa staining showed some differences in the two populations, however, both adherent and nonadherent cell populations contain all types of leukocytes. Upon surface marker analysis, the adherent cells were found to be depleted of sheep erythrocyte rosette forming cells and surface immunoglobulin positive cells compared to the nonadherent and unseparated populations. The cytotoxic reaction in the shark resembles that of mammalian species and the effector leukocyte(s) may be the phylogenetic precursor of mammalian cytotoxic effector cells.
Comparison of isolated sarcoplasmic reticulum from bovine and rabbit muscle

Abstract Comparison of the ultrastructure of purified bovine sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) vesicles isolated from bovine sternomandibularis muscle before and following cold shortening indicates that the decreased Ca2+-accumulating ability and increased release of Ca2+ in cold shortened muscle are not associated with any apparent structural alterations. Sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS)-gel profiles revealed that the major constituent in both bovine and rabbit SR was Ca2+-activated ATPase with a molecular weight of 100,000–105,000. Both SR preparations also showed a proteolipid band at a molecular weight of approximately 10,000. Purified rabbit SR contained three protein components with molecular weights of 75,000, 60,000 and 53,000, whereas bovine SR exhibited a series of five components with molecular weights of 80,000, 66,000, 63,000, 50,000 and 45,000. Although the functions of these isolated proteins were not determined, it is assumed that at least some of them bind Ca2+ ions in the SR.
The Raman and infrared spectra of the series (CH3)nSnCl(4−n)

Abstract The Raman and infrared spectra of CH3SnCl3, (CH3)2SnCl2, (CH3)3SnCl, and Sn(CH3)4 were observed. For each of these molecules, the observed wave numbers were assigned to the fundamental modes of vibration or to combinations, and overtones of the fundamental frequencies. Key features of the assignments for the molecules of this series are the apparent decoupling of the CH3 group vibrations, the coincidence of the SnC stretching vibrations, and the superposition of the low-lying fundamentals. The results for this series of tin compounds have been compared to the results for the corresponding carbon and silicon series.
Theoretical and empirical studies of the standard Gaussian automatic target recognition algorithm

We analyze and assess the underlying assumptions and characteristics of the standard Gaussian automatic target recognition algorithm. An analysis of the theoretical formulation of the basic algorithm is carried out in which the important assumption of Gaussian multivariate feature distribution is replaced with the assumption of generalized Rayleigh multivariate feature distribution. Closed form analytical expressions are worked out for the associated characteristic and detection probability functions. Numerical analysis of the results is performed which reveals that superior performance characteristics can arise in the generalized Rayleigh distribution-based case. An empirical analysis of a computer programmatic implementation of the basic Gaussian algorithm is also carried out to explore the sensitivity of the generated numerical results to the variation of those parameters which are intrinsic to the code. It is explicitly demonstrated that the statistics of the receiver-operator characteristics yielded by the code are extremely sensitive to this set of parameters, and that this sensitivity can lead to potentially ambiguous results in important cases.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
A study of triton induced reactions in 37Cl and 44Ca

Abstract The 44Ca(t, α)43K, 44Ca(t, 3He)44K and 37Cl(t, 3He) 37S reactions have been studied with a beam of 20 MeV tritons and an Elbek-type spectrograph. Forty excited states of 43K are reported in the range 0
Perceived minority status and diversity attitudes: an exploratory study.

The relationship between perceived minority status (in race and gender) and attitudes toward diversity was investigated with 308 graduate and undergraduate students from the southwestern U.S. (54.5% women, 67.5% nonWhite, whose mean age was 26.7, SD=6.2). Analysis suggested perceived minority status in gender correlates significantly and positively with attitudes toward diversity. Specifically, women who perceived themselves to be of a minority gender were more likely to have positive attitudes toward other cultural groups than women who did not perceive themselves as of a minority. Furthermore, perceived minority status in gender mediated the relationship between sex and attitudes toward diversity. Perceived minority status in race was not correlated with attitudes toward diversity.
Stacked field effect transistor integration in double channel transistors (DCT) with tri-state transfer slope and ballistic field effect behavior

Implants create isolated electric charge under the channel region of nFET and pFET. By this, a new local extrema in the transfer slope is obtained while maintaining low leakage in off state. The results are explained by electro-static field simulation and yield in a circuit model with two parallel channel resistors, indicating a double channel field effect transistor (DCT). The new DCTs allow complex functions in logic or small transistor bit cells in the future.
A translational investigation targeting stress-reactivity and prefrontal cognitive control with guanfacine for smoking cessation.

Stress and prefrontal cognitive dysfunction have key roles in driving smoking; however, there are no therapeutics for smoking cessation that attenuate the effects of stress on smoking and enhance cognition. Central noradrenergic pathways are involved in stress-induced reinstatement to nicotine and in the prefrontal executive control of adaptive behaviors. We used a novel translational approach employing a validated laboratory analogue of stress-precipitated smoking, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and a proof-of-concept treatment period to evaluate whether the noradrenergic α2a agonist guanfacine (3 mg/day) versus placebo (0 mg/day) reduced stress-precipitated smoking in the laboratory, altered cortico-striatal activation during the Stroop cognitive-control task, and reduced smoking following a quit attempt. In nicotine-deprived smokers (n=33), stress versus a neutral condition significantly decreased the latency to smoke, and increased tobacco craving, ad-libitum smoking, and systolic blood...
Landslide hazard zonation of slopes susceptible to rock falls and topples

Abstract. A landslide hazard zonation is a division of the land surface into areas, and the relative ranking of these areas according to degrees of actual or potential hazard from landslides on slopes. Zonation from scientific research does not generally imply legal restrictions, but can be useful to those people who are charged with the land management, by providing them with information that is indispensable for planning and regulation purposes. This paper presents a zonation of rock slopes in carbonate mountains on the boundary to the east of the valley of the Sele River (Campania, southern Apennines of Italy). The mountains are severely affected by rock falls and topples, and the related hazard is, therefore, very high; the presence of inhabited areas (the towns of Valva, Colliano and Collianello) and other human infrastructures at the slope foothills make these phenomena extremely dangerous to the anthropogenic environment. The area is highly seismic, as experienced on the occasion of several moderate to strong earthquakes that have hit this sector of the Apennines. According to the zonation proposed here, the ridge of Mount Valva and Mount Marzano is subdivided into four main areas on the basis of the processes which take place in the different sectors of the mountains: the source area, the talus slope, the rockfall shadow (where scattered outlying boulders are present), and the safe area (outside of the reach of fallen blocks). The four sectors were identified through air-photo interpretation and detailed field surveys, aimed in particular at characterizing and interpreting the main rock mass joint patterns, and their relative orientation with respect to the local slope direction. Geological, morphological and structural analyses permitted one to evaluate and classify those parts of the slope that are more susceptible to detachment of rocks, and to identify the more diffuse types of failure. Due to high seismicity of the study area, particular attention was given to the evaluation of the seismic susceptibility to rock falls, by applying two methods recently proposed in literature. Results from this phase of the study were then integrated by additional information from historical research on slope movements occurred previously in the area. The landslide hazard zonation, shown on large-scale cartography, could be compared to maps depicting the distribution and typology of the anthropogenic activities, and thus constitutes a useful tool for administrators and planners, in order to evaluate the hazards related to slope movements, and the vulnerability of settlements, roads, and other man-made infrastructures.
Synthesis, x-ray structure determination, and spectroscopy of the silver(I) polyselenides [(Ph4P)Ag(Se4)]n, [(Me4N)Ag(Se5)]n, [(Et4N)Ag(Se4)]4, and (Pr4N)2[Ag4(Se4)3]. Extreme structure dependence on counterion size

The reaction of sodium pentaselenide with silver nitrate in dimethylformamide (DMF) was investigated. The addition of various counterions, Ph 4 P + , Me 4 N + , Et 4 N + and Pr 4 N + to this common reaction solution resulted in the isolation of four new soluble silver(I) polyselenide complexes, [(Ph 4 P)Ag(Se 4 )] n , [(Me 4 N)Ag(Se 5 )] n , [(Et 4 N)Ag(Se 4 )] 4 and (Pr 4 N) 2 [Ag 4 (Se 4 ) 3 ]
Developing causal understanding with causal maps: the impact of total links, temporal flow, and lateral position of outcome nodes

This study examined some of the methodological approaches used by students to construct causal maps in order to determine which approaches help students understand the underlying causes and causal mechanisms in a complex system. This study tested the relationship between causal understanding (ratio of root causes correctly/incorrectly identified, number of correctly identified root-cause links explaining how root causes directly/indirectly impact final outcomes) and three attributes observed in students’ causal maps (total links, temporal flow, lateral position of final outcome) that students produced before and after online discussions on noted similarities and differences between students’ causal maps. The findings suggest that: (a) causal understanding can be adversely affected if students are instructed before group discussion to temporally sequence nodes to flow from left to right and to position the outcome node farther away from the left edge of the map relative to other nodes in the map; (b) causal understanding following group discussion can be increased by instructing students to minimize the number of causal links and create a map with temporally flow; (c) promoting temporal flow following discussion may be the most effective means of helping students to identify root causes; and (d) instructing students to minimize the number of links following discussion may be the most effective means to helping students explain root causes directly/indirectly impact outcomes. These findings provide insights on what processes and constraints can be formalized and integrated into causal mapping software when used as an instructional and assessment tool.
MicroRNA functional network in pancreatic cancer: From biology to biomarkers of disease

MicroRNAs (miRs), the 17- to 25-nucleotide-long non-coding RNAs, regulate expression of approximately 30% of the protein-coding genes at the post-transcriptional level and have emerged as critical components of the complex functional pathway networks controlling important cellular processes, such as proliferation, development, differentiation, stress response' and apoptosis. Abnormal expression levels of miRs, regulating critical cancer-associated pathways, have been implicated to play important roles in the oncogenic processes, functioning both as oncogenes and as tumour suppressor genes. Elucidation of the genetic networks regulated by the abnormally expressing miRs in cancer cells is proving to be extremely significant in understanding the role of these miRs in the induction of malignant-transformation-associated phenotypic changes. As a result, the miRs involved in the oncogenic transformation process are being investigated as novel biomarkers of disease detection and prognosis as well as potential therapeutic targets for human cancers. In this \article, we review the existing literature in the field documenting the significance of aberrantly expressed miRs in human pancreatic cancer and discuss how the oncogenic miRs may be involved in the genetic networks regulating functional pathways deregulated in this malignancy.
The Contribution of Analogical Problem Solving and Phonemic Awareness to Children's Ability to Make Orthographic Analogies when Reading

ABSTRACT A review of current literature into children's use of orthographic analogies during reading results in an apparent contradiction: that normal readers’ ability to draw such analogies is not predicted by their prior phonological awareness (Muteret al., 1994), rather by their reading experience and proficiency (Bowey and Underwood, 1996), but that dyslexic children are less able to draw these analogies because of theirlack of phonological awareness (Hanleyet al., 1997). It is suggested that in the absence of extensive reading experience, a combination of analogous problem‐solving ability and phonological awareness may be necessary for the successful use of orthographic analogies during reading. To assess this possibility, 70 children of limited reading experience and ability were assessed on phonemic awareness, their ability to make visual analogies and use orthographic analogies when reading. Phonemic awareness was able to account for 14% of the variance in reading ability. Phonemic awareness also ...
Contagion and repeat offending among urban juvenile delinquents

This research investigates the role of repeat offending and spatial contagion in juvenile delinquency recidivism using a database of 7,166 male juvenile offenders sent to community-based programs by the Family Court of Philadelphia. Results indicate evidence of repeat offending among juvenile delinquents, particularly for drug offenders. The likelihood of recidivism is influenced by ethnicity, parental criminality, and various measures of prior contact with the juvenile justice system. Spatial contagion, measured as the rate of recidivism for specific crime types among delinquents living nearby the juvenile's residence, was found to strongly influence the likelihood of recidivism. These results suggest that delinquent peer contagion is offense specific, and thus facilitates repeat offending, as well as neighborhood specialization, particularly for drug offenses.
Single-crystal neutron diffraction study of β-Cs3(HSO4)2[H2−x(SxP1−x)O4] (x ≃ 0.5) at 15 K

The structure of β-Cs3(HSO4)2[H2−x(SxP1−x)O4] has been examined by single-crystal neutron diffraction at 15 K. The compound crystallizes in space group C2/c and contains four formula units in the unit cell, with lattice parameters a = 19.769 (9), b = 7.685 (2), c = 8.858 (3) A and β = 100.60 (4)°. Refinement of P, S and H site occupancies indicated that the value of x (in the stoichiometry) is 0.500 (6). This, together with the unit-cell volume of 1322.8 (14) A3, implies a density of 3.463 Mg m−3. The structure contains zigzag rows of XO4 anions, where X = P or S, that alternate, in a checkerboard fashion, with zigzag rows of Cs cations. Moreover, there is one proton site, H(3), with an occupancy of 0.25 and one X-atom site, X(1), that is occupied by 0.5 P and 0.5 S. These features are in general agreement with a previous X-ray structure determination carried out at 298 K. In contrast to the X-ray study, however, it was found that two different structural models adequately fit the diffraction data. In the first model, the proton vacancies and the P atoms were assumed to be randomly distributed over the H(3) and X(1) sites, respectively, and to have no impact on the local structure. In the second model, several atoms were assigned split occupancies over two neighboring sites, to reflect the presence or absence of a proton vacancy, and the presence of P or S on the X(1) site. Refinement assuming the first model, in which anisotropic displacement parameters for 12 of 14 atom sites in the asymmetric unit were employed, yielded residuals wR(F2) = 0.084 and wR(F) = 0.038. For the second model, in which anisotropic displacement parameters were utilized for only the five atoms that were not split relative to the first model, the residuals were wR(F2) = 0.081 and wR(F) = 0.036.
‘You aren’t the first and you won’t be the last’ Reflections on moral change in contemporary rural Ireland

During the last decades of the 20th century, notions of morality related to sexuality and family life underwent a dramatic transition in Ireland. In this paper, I explore changing attitudes towards a rapidly growing population of unmarried mothers in a small community in rural Ireland. In my analysis, I draw upon recent work on the anthropology of ethics, morality, and cultural change to analyze the ways in which individual experiences of ethical conflict and transformation relate to aggregate processes of cultural change. My analysis of one woman’s account of her own moral epiphany speaks to the limits of conceptualizing ethico-moral change as a necessarily conscious or cognitive process.
The behavior of salt-labile plant viruses in gradients of cesium sulphate.

Several plant viruses which are disrupted by CsCl can successfully be banded in gradients of Cs2SO4. The two components of pea enation mosaic virus band at the same density. The components of the bromoviruses (brome mosaic and broad bean mottle viruses) and of tomato aspermy virus, band according to their nucleic acid content. Some differences from the previously reported nucleic acid content of components of brome mosaic virus are noted. The components of alfalfa mosaic virus (AMV) also band at slightly different densities which is also considered to be due to nucleic acid content; these differences in banding densities of AMV components are also found in gradients of Metrizamide. The behavior of AMV in various Cs+ and Na+ salts indicates that the disruption of virus particles might be due in part to the chaotropic action of the anions. The significance of these observations on the interpretation of forces involved in maintaining virus structure is discussed.
A theoretical framework for premarital sexual decisions in the dyad

A theoretical framework and model designed to explain and predict decisions about premarital intercourse is presented. Decision-making is viewed within an exchange framework. Throughout the exchange process, variations in socialization, definitions of the situation, perceptions of group vs. individual profits, and variations in the values of the participants are related to decisions made. Consensual and accommodative decisions to have or not to have premarital intercourse are explored. Suggestions are made to utilize the framework to generate hypotheses and to develop the theory further.
The use of botulinum toxin in pediatric disorders

Botulinum toxins have an exciting and important role in treating the child with hypertonia. The guidelines presented in this article are those that have been published representing the safe use of botulinum toxins in children. Experience and a decade of research have provided the framework for using botulinum toxins in decreasing deformity and promoting function. In children, a window of opportunity exists with botulinum toxin that allows improved motor control and elongation of shortened muscles. Although 3 to 4 months in an adult life is short, for a child it is a relatively greater proportion of their life experience and may be long enough for skill development. The improvement noted in function after botulinum toxin use is facilitated by comprehensive rehabilitation. The pediatric physiatrist has a unique role in the management of children with cerebral palsy and other conditions with hypertonia. Their knowledge and training reflect an understanding of anatomy and development that allows accurate evaluation of specific functional problems in children related to hypertonia. The pediatric physiatrist has experience in localization of muscles by EMG, nerve stimulation, and surface anatomy. Although many other physicians inject botulinum toxins, goal-directed management is the cornerstone to the physiatrist's thinking and treatment plan. Orthopedic surgery ultimately may be the intervention of choice if persistent contracture or progression of contractures occurs. Working in collaboration with an orthopedist identifies the timing of optimal surgical intervention for alignment. For persistent and severe hypertonia, the treatment team includes a neurosurgeon. All options for spasticity, such as selective posterior rhizotomy and intrathecal baclofen, should be considered. Re-evaluation of the child after selective dorsal rhizotomy or intrathecal baclofen is appropriate and should be discussed with therapists for focal intervention. Communication between members of the team and the family is desirable and frequently is one of the major contributions of the pediatric physiatrist. For children with focal hypertonia, botulinum toxins offer a dramatic but temporary repeatable change that affects rehabilitation. Research rapidly has captured the positive effect of the toxins on impairment and functional limitations. Not to be overlooked are outcomes related to quality of life. The long-term use of botulinum toxins and the role the toxins play throughout the life span of the person with a childhood hypertonic disorder are yet to be determined.
Ginsenosides promote proliferation of granulosa cells from chicken prehierarchical follicles through PKC activation and up-regulated cyclin gene expression

The effect of GS (ginsenosides) on proliferation of chicken GCs (granulosa cells) from prehierarchical SYF (small yellow follicles) was evaluated, and involvement of the PKC (protein kinase C) signalling pathway as well as mRNA expression of cyclins and CDK (cyclin-dependent kinase) were investigated. Whole SYF or GCs isolated from SYF were cultured in Medium 199 supplemented with 0.5% FCS (fetal calf serum). After 16 h, the cells were challenged with GS alone or in combination with PKC inhibitor H7 or activator PMA (phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate) for 24 h in serum-free medium. Results showed that in both whole follicles and pure GCs monolayer culture system, GS (0.1-10 microg/ml) significantly increased the number of GCs in SYF in a dose-dependent manner, and this stimulatory effect was inhibited by H7, but enhanced by PMA. Meanwhile, the PCNA-LI (proliferating cell nuclear antigen labelling index) of GCs displayed similar changes with the cell number. Mechanism of GS action was further evaluated in cultured GCs separated from SYF. Western blot analysis showed that 10 microg/ml GS increased PKC translocation from cytoplasm to the plasma membrane of the GCs to become the active state. This effect was blocked by H7. Furthermore, GS up-regulated the expression of cyclin D1/CDK6 and cyclin E/CDK2 mRNAs in GCs; however, inhibition of PKC with H7 attenuated this stimulatory effect. These results indicated that GS could stimulate proliferation of chicken GCs through activated PKC-involved up-regulation of cyclin D1/CDK6 and cyclin E/CDK2 genes, subsequently promoting development of the chicken prehierarchical follicles.
The commutant is the weak closure of the powers, for rank-1 transformations

In the class of rank-1 transformations, there is a strong dichotomy. For such a T , the commutant is either irivial , consisting only of the powers of T , or is uncountable . In addition, the commutant semigroup, C ( T ), is in fact a group. As a consequence, the notion of weak isomorphism between two transformations is equivalent to isomorphism, if at least one of the transformations is rank-1. In § 2, we show that any proper factor of a rank-1 must be rigid. Hence, neither Ornstein's rank-1 mixing nor Chacon's transformation, can be a factor of a rank-1.