cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cultural factors in dementia: Perspectives from the anthropology of aging

The plasticity of cultural constructs of dementia is shown in two societies: Japan, and an American Indian nation. By demedicalizing the analysis of dementia, the social and cultural factors that influence recognition of symptoms, help-seeking strategies, caregiving behaviors, and adherence to biomedical and sociocultural coping advice become more obvious. Notably in the Japanese example, motivation toward primary prevention behavior is clear in the context of boke since it is an undesirable condition of frailty and cognitive decline considered to be preventable by remaining active. In the American Indian example, the hallucinatory symptoms are positively valued communications with the "other side" rather than pathologically defined. The findings show the need to extend dementia models beyond the biomedical in order to optimize prevention and management of this complex, chronic condition.
WE-E-BRA-01: Effects of Major Component Replacement in a Tomotherapy HiART System On Radiotherapy QA Measurements

Purpose: On our Tomotherapy system several major components have been changed frequently in one year. This study investigates the possible relationship of component failure with treatment load, and the related QA issues following component replacement. Method and Materials: Tomotherapy HiART is a complex radiotherapy equipment where a linac, magnetron and all the components are mounted on a rotating slip ring gantry. It operates at a high dose rate compared to conventional linacs. The major components — target, magnetron and the linac have been changed five, three and two times, respectively during one year of use. Following major component replacement, the PDD, profiles, output and energy have been measured with ion chambers, water scanner and films to bring the system to agreement with commissioning condition. Results: The output and the energy constancy variation over the entire year were within +/− 6 % and +/− 3.5%, respectively with no definite predictor of an imminent component failure. The dose rate varied between −10% and +5% during the same period. Annual average of daily treatments was 24 with a maximum daily average of 37.3 treatments in a month. Target change interval ranged between 12 and 80 days. The mean time between major component failures was 35.6 days. Conclusion:Analysis of the data could not identify any pattern of component failure. Examination of targets indicated holes, flakiness and uneven erosion in some targets indicating unknown changes in the beam. Magnetron changes were primarily due to arcing. Target and linac change involved more alignment, beam characteristics and QA measurements and longer downtime. The hole in the target poses a beam spectrum different from the commissioned beam. Target or the linac replacement caused more downtime and QA measurements than the magnetron change.
Expression, genomic structure and mapping of the thymus specific protease Prss16: A candidate gene for insulin dependent diabetes mellitus susceptibility

PRSS16 is a serine protease specifically expressed by epithelial cells in the thymic cortex. The human gene is encoded on 6p21.3-p22 where recent linkage analysis has identified an association with insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) susceptibility independent of HLA-DR3. To further investigate its potential role in autoimmunity, we characterized the mouse orthologue, Prss16. The genomic structure of Prss16 shows conservation with the human gene in size, number of exons and chromosomal location. Mapping of Prss16 places it on mouse chromosome 13 centromeric of thesatin locus. This region is comparable to the PRSS16 region on human chromosome 6 and has also been linked to quantitative trait locus for IDDM in the nonobese diabetic mouse. Similar to the human gene, Prss16 expression is highly specific in the mouse with expression limited to the cortical thymic epithelium. Notably, embryonic expression coincides with population of the thymic anlage with T-cell precursors and initiation of T-cell development. We also show that NOD and New Zealand Black mice, which have a disrupted thymic architecture and autoimmune phenotype, have lower levels of Prss16 expression compared to C57BL/6 mice. These findings support the role of Prss16 in T-cell development and susceptibility to autoimmunity in the mouse.
Biosynthesis of furanosesquiterpenoid stress metabolites in Ipomoea batatas: Isotopic oxygen incorporation into ipomeamarone

Abstract All three oxygen atoms in ipomeamarone, a major stress metabolise of the sweet potato, were found to originate from molecular oxygen and not from water or the sesquiterpene precursor, farnesol.
AUTONOMOUS REAL-TIME DETECTION OF PLUMES AND JETS FROM MOONS AND COMETS

Dynamic activity on the surface of distant moons, asteroids, and comets can manifest as jets or plumes. These phenomena provide information about the interior of the bodies and the forces (gravitation, radiation, thermal) they experience. Fast detection and follow-up study is imperative since the phenomena may be time-varying and because the observing window may be limited (e.g., during a flyby). We have developed an advanced method for real-time detection of plumes and jets using onboard analysis of the data as it is collected. In contrast to prior work, our technique is not restricted to plume detection from spherical bodies, making it relevant for irregularly shaped bodies such as comets. Further, our study analyzes raw data, the form in which it is available on board the spacecraft, rather than fully processed image products. In summary, we contribute a vital assessment of a technique that can be used on board tomorrow's deep space missions to detect, and respond quickly to, new occurrences of plumes and jets.
The in-plane frequencies and normal coordinates of benzene, benzene-D6, sym-benzene-D3, 1, 4-dideuterobenzene, and 2, 3, 5, 6-tetradeuterobenzene

Abstract The quadratic force field for benzene chosen by Whiffen has been revised by him and is used, in revised form, to calculate the in-plane frequencies and the normal coordinates of benzene, benzene- d 6 , sym-benzene- d 3 , 1,4-dideuterobenzene, and 2, 3, 5, 6-tetradeuterobenzene with the aid of an IBM650 computer. Coefficients which transform the normal coordinates into symmetry coordinates are presented and in addition the coefficients linking the normal coordinates with a local Cartesian set are given. The calculated frequencies agree to better than 2% with the most recent experimental values for these compounds obtained by Brodersen and Langseth.
On the Use of a Kolsky Torsion Bar to Study the Transient Large-Strain Response of Polymer Melts at High Shear Rates

A Kolsky torsion bar is utilized successfully in a novel rheometric experiment for measuring the transient large-strain response of polymer melts under high shear-rate loading. A molten low-density polyethylene is studied with the new technique. The results show that the high-rate shear response of the material has an instantaneous rate dependence that may not be discernible at low rates and a strain-dependent hardening that saturates at large strains instead of fading. The usefulness of the technique and the significance of the findings are discussed in comparison with a modified rubberlike liquid theory and high-rate capillary measurements for low-density polyethylene melts.
Evaluation of Reference Services—A Review

Understanding the inherent deficiencies in reference service as provided is critical to providing effective, high quality service. Quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, as well as a combination of both, are being used to evaluate these services. The identification of appropriate research methodology is critical to an effective evaluation. This article is a review of the literature on reference service evaluation, with emphasis on evaluation methodologies.
Direct Observation of sp−d Exchange Interactions in Colloidal Mn2+- and Co2+-Doped CdSe Quantum Dots

The defining attribute of a diluted magnetic semiconductor (DMS) is the existence of dopant−carrier magnetic exchange interactions. In this letter, we report the first direct observation of such exchange interactions in colloidal doped CdSe nanocrystals. Doped CdSe quantum dots were synthesized by thermal decomposition of (Me4N)2[Cd4(SePh)10] in the presence of TMCl2 (TM2+ = Mn2+ or Co2+) in hexadecylamine and were characterized by several analytical and spectroscopic techniques. Using magnetic circular dichroism spectroscopy, successful doping and the existence of giant excitonic Zeeman splittings in both Mn2+- and Co2+-doped wurtzite CdSe quantum dots are demonstrated unambiguously.
Reduction of persistent photoconductivity in ZnO thin film transistor-based UV photodetector

We report a ZnO-based thin film transistor UV photodetector with a back gate configuration. The thin-film transistor (TFT) aspect ratio W/L is 150 μm/5 μm and has a current on-off ratio of 1010. The detector shows UV-visible rejection ratio of 104 and cut-off wavelength of 376 nm. The device has low dark current of 5 × 10−14 A. The persistent photoconductivity is suppressed through oxygen plasma treatment of the channel surface which significantly reduces the density of oxygen vacancy confirmed by XPS measurements. The proper gate bias-control further reduces recovery time. The UV-TFT configuration is particularly suitable for making large-area imaging arrays.
Tunable Optical Delay on Silicon Chip with a Double-Ring Resonator

The group delay in a silicon double-ring resonator, which has a narrow transparency peak with low group velocity, is measured. Effective group indices from 90 to 289 are obtained by thermal tuning of the resonator.
Tropical Cyclone Intensity Analysis and Forecasting from Satellite Imagery

Abstract A technique for using satellite pictures to analyse and forecast tropical cyclone intensifies is described. The cloud features used to estimate the cyclone's intensity and its future change of intensity are described. Procedures for interpreting cloud characteristics and their day-by-day changes within the guidance and constraints of an empirical model of tropical cyclone changes are outlined.
Short forms of the Texas Social Behavior Inventory (TSBI), an objective measure of self-esteem

Two short (16 item) forms of the Helmreich, Stapp, and Ervin (1974) Texas Social Behavior Inventory, a validated, objective measure of self-esteem or social competence are presented. Normative data and other statistics are described for males and females. Correlations between each short form and long (32-item) scale were .97. Factor analysis and part-whole correlations verified the similarity of the two forms. The utility of the scale in research is described.
Effects of ground and joint reaction force exercise on lumbar spine and femoral neck bone mineral density in postmenopausal women: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Low bone mineral density (BMD) and subsequent fractures are a major public health problem in postmenopausal women. The purpose of this study was to use the aggregate data meta-analytic approach to examine the effects of ground (for example, walking) and/or joint reaction (for example, strength training) exercise on femoral neck (FN) and lumbar spine (LS) BMD in postmenopausal women. The a priori inclusion criteria were: (1) randomized controlled trials, (2) exercise intervention ≥ 24 weeks, (3) comparative control group, (4) postmenopausal women, (5) participants not regularly active, i.e., less than 150 minutes of moderate intensity (3.0 to 5.9 metabolic equivalents) weight bearing endurance activity per week, less than 75 minutes of vigorous intensity (> 6.0 metabolic equivalents) weight bearing endurance activity per week, resistance training < 2 times per week, (6) published and unpublished studies in any language since January 1, 1989, (7) BMD data available at the FN and/or LS. Studies were located by searching six electronic databases, cross-referencing, hand searching and expert review. Dual selection of studies and data abstraction were performed. Hedge’s standardized effect size (g) was calculated for each FN and LS BMD result and pooled using random-effects models. Z-score alpha values, 95%confidence intervals (CI) and number-needed-to-treat (NNT) were calculated for pooled results. Heterogeneity was examined using Q and I 2 . Mixed-effects ANOVA and simple meta-regression were used to examine changes in FN and LS BMD according to selected categorical and continuous variables. Statistical significance was set at an alpha value ≤0.05 and a trend at >0.05 to ≤ 0.10. Small, statistically significant exercise minus control group improvements were found for both FN (28 g’s, 1632 participants, g = 0.288, 95% CI = 0.102, 0.474, p = 0.002, Q = 90.5, p < 0.0001, I 2 = 70.1%, NNT = 6) and LS (28 g’s, 1504 participants, g = 0.179, 95% CI = −0.003, 0.361, p = 0.05, Q = 77.7, p < 0.0001, I 2 = 65.3%, NNT = 6) BMD. Clinically, it was estimated that the overall changes in FN and LS would reduce the 20-year relative risk of osteoporotic fracture at any site by approximately 11% and 10%, respectively. None of the mixed-effects ANOVA analyses were statistically significant. Statistically significant, or a trend for statistically significant, associations were observed for changes in FN and LS BMD and 20 different predictors. The overall findings suggest that exercise may result in clinically relevant benefits to FN and LS BMD in postmenopausal women. Several of the observed associations appear worthy of further investigation in well-designed randomized controlled trials.
Diffraction and dispersion management in active nanostructured metamaterials

We explore the perspectives offered by nanoplasmonic metamaterials for manipulation of optical signals at the nanoscale. It is shown that in contrast to conventional dielectric waveguides, plasmonic and anisotropy-based waveguides support a number of highly-confined optical modes even when the waveguide size is much smaller than the wavelength. The effective modal indices in these systems can be either positive or negative and are strongly affected by material composition and waveguide size, providing a mechanism for manipulating the phase velocity and diffraction limit at the nanoscale. In active metamaterials, the combined effect of waveguide- and material-induced dispersions leads to a versatile control over the group velocity which can be changed from negative to large or small (in comparison with the speed of light in vacuum) positive values by a relatively weak modulation of material properties. In the end, the active metamaterial provide a unique platform for independent manipulation of group and phase velocities of electromagnetic radiation in sub-diffraction areas.
Salting-out chromatography—VII: Analysis of mixtures of dialkylphosphoric acids, alkanephosphonic acids, and orthophosphoric acid

Abstract Attempted separations of several phosphorus acids by gas-partition and anion-cxchange chromatography were unsuccessful. This paper describes a quantitative method of separation by salting-out chromatography on special Dowex 50-X4 resins of low capacity.
Studies in Hemodynamics and Hypertension

This review covers a representative sampling of investigations in hemodynamics and hypertension performed by the author during the period from approximately 1945 to 1980. The hemodynamic studies included a description of changes associated with congestive heart failure and with acute myocardial infarction. These studies emphasized for the first time the importance of left ventricular afterload and of the mobilizable venous reservoir. Other hemodynamic studies included diverse subjects such as the first and only recordings of pulse waves in arteries as small as 200 gammam in diameter, velocity differences between red blood cells and plasma, turbulent blood flow in the ascending aorta, increase in velocity of blood flow of leg veins under compression, rates of transcapillary flow of solutes in humans, and the first use of external arterial pulse wave recordings to assess vascular compliance. Pioneer studies in hypertension included the first use of an antihypertensive drug to treat malignant hypertension and the first report of the treatment of hypertension with a thiazide diuretic.
Decision fusion methodologies in Structural Health Monitoring systems

Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) is a process of continuous monitoring of the physical condition of a structure for purpose of ensuring the integrity of the structure. SHM techniques have been employed to reduce maintenance and repair costs while maintaining safety and reliability of aircrafts. In this paper we have investigated the benefits provided by integrating decision fusion algorithms to SHM systems. The decisions made by classifiers acting on sensory data are combined using decision fusion algorithms to arrive at unified final decisions regarding the status of the monitored structure. First, synthetic decisions were generated and used for testing and performance evaluation of the different decision fusion algorithms. Second, several different decision fusion algorithms were developed and tested on the synthetic decisions. The Dempster-Shafer theory of evidence, fuzzy logic type-1, and fuzzy logic-type2 were used for development of the decision-fusion algorithms. Finally, the fusion algorithms were tested on decisions extracted from experimental data to validate their performances. The testing and evaluation results showed significant improvement due to fusion process integrated at the end of the feature classification process. The development of the fusion algorithms, their testing results on the synthetic decisions and decisions extracted from real experiment are reported in this paper. Also, performance analysis of decision fusion algorithms is provided in the paper.
Holographic analysis of the structural and operational dynamics of an advanced graphite-epoxy composite flight control structure

Holographic interferometry has been successfully employed to characterize the materials and behavior of diverse types of structures under stress. Specialized variations of this technology have also been applied to define dynamic and vibration related structural behavior. Such applications of holographic technique offer some of the most effective methods of modal and dynamic analysis available. Real-time dynamic testing of the modal and mechanical behavior of aerodynamic control structures for advanced missiles systems has always required advanced instrumentation for data collection in either actual flight test or wind-tunnel simulations. Advanced optical holography techniques are alternate methods which define actual behavioral data on the ground in a noninvasive environment. These methods offer significant insight in both the development and subsequent operational test and modeling of advanced composite control structures and their integration with total vehicle system dynamics. Structures and materials can be analyzed with very low amplitude excitation and the resultant data can be used to adjust the accuracy of mathematically derived structural models.
The postpartum visit: risk factors for nonuse and association with breast-feeding.

Abstract Objective: Our purpose was (1) to describe use of the postpartum visit among US women of different social and ethnic backgrounds and to identify risk factors for nonuse and (2) to determine the association between postpartum care and breast- feeding duration. Study Design: The responses of a nationally representative sample of 9953 women who had a live birth in 1988 surveyed by the National Maternal and Infant Health Survey were included for our secondary analysis. Risk factors for nonuse of the postpartum visit, and its relationship with breast-feeding duration, were evaluated with use of multivariate regression analyses. Results: Fifteen percent of respondents had not made a postpartum visit within 6 months after delivery. Having no prenatal care was associated with increased likelihood of nonuse of postpartum care (adjusted relative risk 3.39, CI 1.98-5.81). The postpartum visit was not significantly associated with breast-feeding duration. Conclusion: Further research is needed to reevaluate the timing, content, and delivery of postpartum care. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2002;187:1329-36.)
Estimating ancestry and heterozygosity of hybrids using molecular markers

Hybridization, genetic mixture of distinct populations, gives rise to myriad recombinant genotypes. Characterizing the genomic composition of hybrids is critical for studies of hybrid zone dynamics, inheritance of traits, and consequences of hybridization for evolution and conservation. Hybrid genomes are often summarized either by an estimate of the proportion of alleles coming from each ancestral population or classification into discrete categories like F1, F2, backcross, or merely “hybrid” vs. “pure”. In most cases, it is not realistic to classify individuals into the restricted set of classes produced in the first two generations of admixture. However, the continuous ancestry index misses an important dimension of the genotype. Joint consideration of ancestry together with interclass heterozygosity (proportion of loci with alleles from both ancestral populations) captures all of the information in the discrete classification without the unrealistic assumption that only two generations of admixture have transpired. I describe a maximum likelihood method for joint estimation of ancestry and interclass heterozygosity. I present two worked examples illustrating the value of the approach for describing variation among hybrid populations and evaluating the validity of the assumption underlying discrete classification. Naively classifying natural hybrids into the standard six line cross categories can be misleading, and false classification can be a serious problem for datasets with few molecular markers. My analysis underscores previous work showing that many (50 or more) ancestry informative markers are needed to avoid erroneous classification. Although classification of hybrids might often be misleading, valuable inferences can be obtained by focusing directly on distributions of ancestry and heterozygosity. Estimating and visualizing the joint distribution of ancestry and interclass heterozygosity is an effective way to compare the genetic structure of hybrid populations and these estimates can be used in classic quantitative genetic methods for assessing additive, dominant, and epistatic genetic effects on hybrid phenotypes and fitness. The methods are implemented in a freely available package “HIest” for the R statistical software ( http://cran.r-project.org/web/packages/HIest/index.html ).
The Ribosome Binding Site of Hepatitis C Virus mRNA

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infects an estimated 170 million people worldwide, the majority of whom develop a chronic infection which can lead to severe liver disease, and for which no generally effective treatment yet exists. A promising target for treatment is the internal ribosome entry site (IRES) of HCV, a highly conserved domain within a highly variable RNA. Never before have the ribosome binding sites of any IRES domains, cellular or viral, been directly characterized. Here, we reveal that the HCV IRES sequences most closely associated with 80S ribosomes during protein synthesis initiation are a series of discontinuous domains together comprising by far the largest ribosome binding site yet discovered.
Science and the climate change regime

Given rapidly increasing losses from extreme climate events, the world community already has a common interest in action to mitigate and adapt to climate change. However, this common interest is not well served through continued promotion of either mandatory (legally-binding) policies or ‘do nothing’ policies by various participants in the regime established by the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change. The common interest would be better served by a third way, comprised of voluntary ‘no regrets’ policies that are commensurate with the limited political power of the regime and already have succeeded on small scales in reducing vulnerabilities to extreme climate events and in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Both mandatory and ‘do nothing’ policies, as well as the regime itself, have depended upon scientists for political support in the past. But scientists might better serve the common interest of the world community through support of a third way in the future.
Transesophageal echocardiographic diagnosis of a free-floating atrial thrombus.

WO-DIMENSIONAL (2D) transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) has gained increasing popularity as an intraoperative monitor of left ventricular and valvular function during cardiac surgery.‘m5 This technique is the most sensitive and specific method for detecting left atria1 thrombi.6%7 Complications of such thrombi include peripheral embolization causing cerebrovascular accidents and obstruction of either the mitral or aortic valve orifice resulting in sudden death.H-‘5 Intraoperative TEE used during coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) detected a free-floating left atria1 thrombus prior to weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), permitting emergent thrombectomy in this patient. This discovery may have prevented subsequent valvular obstruction, sudden death, or peripheral embolization. The thrombus was not observed on either a preoperative transthoractic echocardiogram or prebypass TEE examination. The case demonstrates that TEE is useful in monitoring changes in ventricular wall motion, as well as detecting structural and intracavity abnormalities.
A test for multimodality of regression derivatives with application to nonparametric growth regressions

This paper presents a method to test for multimodality of an estimated kernel density of parameter estimates from a local-linear least-squares regression derivative. The procedure is laid out in seven simple steps and a suggestion for implementation is proposed. A Monte Carlo exercise is used to examine the finite sample properties of the test along with those from a calibrated version of it which corrects for the conservative nature of Silverman-type tests. The test is included in a study on nonparametric growth regressions. The results show that in the estimation of unconditional β-convergence, the distribution of the parameter estimates is multimodal with one mode in the negative region (primarily OECD economies) and possibly two modes in the positive region (primarily non-OECD economies) of the parameter estimates. The results for conditional β-convergence show that the density is predominantly negative and unimodal. Finally, the application attempts to determine why particular observations posess positive marginal effects on initial income in both the unconditional and conditional frameworks.
Toward A Vaccine for AIDS: The Emergence of Immunobiology-Based Vaccine Development

Over a decade has passed since the identification of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) as the causative agent of AIDS. During this time, HIV has been extensively characterized, and a variety of vaccine constructs and strategies have been explored. For the most part, these have been driven by successes of the past with other pathogens, or by novel approaches enabled by technologies of the present. With the maturing of our insights into the immunopathology of HIV and basic immunological mechanisms, we are presented with unprecedented opportunities to rationally develop vaccine approaches strategically designed to counter the immunopathology of HIV. As opposed to absolute prevention of infection, the primary goal of these strategies may be to limit infection and to assure a response to infection that prevents disease and transmission. Thus, such vaccines may find utility in both preventive and therapeutic roles. In this paper, we present the background and current state of immunobiology-driven vaccine development for AIDS.
The dual control model of male sexual response: a theoretical approach to centrally mediated erectile dysfunction

A theoretical model of dual control of male sexual response is considered, based on the balancing of central excitation and inhibition, with individuals varying in their propensity for both sexual excitation and inhibition of sexual response. A questionnaire method for measuring propensities for sexual excitation and inhibition has been developed (SIS/SES questionnaire), resulting in one excitation factor (SES) and two inhibition factors (SIS1 and SIS2). Evidence for the existence of both inhibitory and excitatory tone is discussed. The first inhibition factor (SIS1) may be related to level of inhibitory tone and is associated with fear of performance failure. The second inhibition factor (SIS2) may be related to external threats (e.g. from within the sexual relationship). The implications for the treatment of centrally mediated erectile dysfunction are discussed, with predictions that high SIS2 individuals will respond to psychological treatment, whereas high SIS1 individuals will respond better to pharmacological methods of treatment.
Polycystin-1L2 is a novel G-protein-binding protein.

Mutations in genes encoding polycystin-1 (PC1) and polycystin-2 cause autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease. The polycystin protein family is composed of Ca 2+ -permeable pore-forming subunits and receptor-like integral membrane proteins. Here we describe a novel member of the polycystin-1-like subfamily, polycystin-1L2 (PC1L2), encoded by PKD1L2, which has various alternative splicing forms with two translation initiation sites. PC1L2 short form starts in exon 12 of the long form. The longest open reading frame of PKD1L2 short form, determined from human testis cDNA, encodes a 1775-amino-acid protein and 32 exons, whereas the long form is predicted to encode a 2460residue protein. Both forms have a small receptor for egg jelly domain, a G-protein-coupled receptor proteolytic site, an LH2/PLAT, and 11 putative transmembrane domains, as well as a number of rhodopsin-like G-protein-coupled receptor signatures. RT-PCR analysis shows that the short form, but not the long form, of human PKD1L2 is expressed in the developing and adult heart and kidney. Furthermore, by GST pull-down assay we observed that PC1L2 and polycystin-1L1 are able to bind to specific G-protein subunits. We also show that PC1 Cterminal cytosolic domain binds to Ga12 ,G as, and Gai1, while it weakly interacts with Gai2. Our results indicate that both PC1-like molecules may act as G-protein-coupled receptors.
Inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopic study of the silane coupling agents: 1—Aminophenyltrimethoxysilane adsorbed on plasma grown aluminum oxide and effects of high humidity

The adsorption mechanism of aminophenyltrimethoxysilane adsorbed from the vapor on plasma grown aluminum oxide and effects of high humidity on the adsorbed silane were studied by inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy (IETS). The IETS spectrum of aminophenyltrimethoxysilane contains the bands due to phenyl rings, methyl groups and amino groups. The NH2 deformation mode is shifted to lower frequencies, which may imply that the silane is chemisorbed through the amino group. By exposing the sample to water vapor, the methoxy group hydrolizes and the resultant methanol is removed from the varrier region indicated by a significant loss of intensity of the CH3 stretching and deformation modes. A loss of intensity of the NH2 deformation mode was also observed after the exposure.
Are gamers better crossers? An examination of action video game experience and dual task effects in a simulated street crossing task.

OBJECTIVE: A high-fidelity street crossing simulator was used to test the hypothesis that experienced action video game players are less vulnerable than non-gamers to dual task costs in complex tasks. BACKGROUND: Previous research has shown that action video game players outperform nonplayers on many single task measures of perception and attention. It is unclear, however, whether action video game players outperform nonplayers in complex, divided attention tasks. METHOD: Experienced action video game players and nongamers completed a street crossing task in a high-fidelity simulator. Participants walked on a manual treadmill to cross the street. During some crossings, a cognitively demanding working memory task was added. RESULTS: Dividing attention resulted in more collisions and increased decision making time. Of importance, these dual task costs were equivalent for the action video game players and the nongamers. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that action video game players are equally susceptible to the costs of dividing attention in a complex task. APPLICATION: Perceptual and attentional benefits associated with action video game experience may not translate to performance benefits in complex, real-world tasks. Language: en
Complete 1H and 13C NMR assignments of the epimeric menthane-1-carboxylic acids.

Complete NMR analyses with full assignments for 1H and 13C NMR spectral data for both epimers of menthane-1-carboxylic acid are described. The NMR properties of the recently synthesized axial isomer had not been previously described, and through use of a variety of 1D and 2D techniques, additional information is provided for the equatorial isomer. As well as assignments of chemical shifts, homonuclear coupling constants were determined for the equatorial isomer and most of coupling constants were measured for the axial isomer. Published in 2007 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
SMARTWheel: From concept to clinical practice

Wheelchair prescription is complex with thousands of choices and options. Theoretically, a higher quality or innovative wheelchair that is appropriately matched to the user and their unique needs will increase participation. It is well accepted that there is an alarmingly high incidence of carpal tunnel syndrome, and rotator cuff injuries among manual wheelchair users. Since the initial conceptualization, the SMARTWheel was intended to better understand the physiological and physical effects of wheelchair propulsion on the body. Initially, little was known about wheelchair propulsion and the SMARTWheel transformed the nascent field of wheelchair propulsion biomechanics. Although still an important area of clinical research, the SMARTWheel has been critical to the study of the relationship between the type of wheelchair, set-up, activity, technique, anatomy, and physiology and repetitive strain injury. There has been growing evidence that the wheelchair-user interaction explains a substantial portion of th...
Unicast-based inference of network link delay distributions with finite mixture models

Providers of high quality-of-service over telecommunication networks require accurate methods for remote measurement of link-level performance. Recent research in network tomography has demonstrated that it is possible to estimate internal link characteristics, e.g., link delays and packet losses, using unicast probing schemes in which probes are exchanged between several pairs of sites in the network. We present a new method for estimation of internal link delay distributions using the end-to-end packet pair delay statistics gathered by back-to-back packet-pair unicast probes. Our method is based on a variant of the penalized maximum likelihood expectation-maximization (PML-EM) algorithm applied to an additive finite mixture model for the link delay probability density functions. The mixture model incorporates a combination of discrete and continuous components, and we use a minimum message length (MML) penalty for selection of model order. We present results of Matlab and ns-2 simulations to illustrate the promise of our network tomography algorithm for light cross-traffic scenarios.
Why teachers leave: Factors that influence retention and resignation

Abstract Ajzen's Theory of Planned Behavior is used to examine continuing teachers’ plans to remain or resign and the likelihood of resigned teachers to return to teaching in the next 3 years. Specifically, this study examined factors that encourage or hinder resigned teachers from returning to teaching, the importance of such factors, and the importance of those factors for teachers who remained in teaching. We find that family issues are of greatest concern to all teachers, and that leavers place much more emphasis on the time they are able to spend with their families than do stayers. The importance assigned to all factors is influenced by demographic characteristics.
(Z)-2-(3-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzylidene)-1-azabicyclo[2.2.2]octan-3-one.

Crystals of the title compound, C15H17NO3, were obtained from a condensation reaction of 3-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzaldehyde with 1-azabicyclo[2.2.2]octan-3-one and subsequent crystallization of the product from methanol. The title compound, containing a double bond that connects the azabicyclic ring system to the 3-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzylidene group, was obtained with Z geometry.
Effects of intercollisional interference on measured line strengths in the 3-0 quadrupole band of H2

Abstract Recent observations of the 3-0 quadrupole band of H 2 by cavity ring-down spectroscopy confirm discrepancies with theoretical calculations of the quadrupole transition moment. They also supply enough data to suggest that the discrepancy comes from narrow intercollisional interference dips in the collision-induced absorption.
Connectivity in a citation network: The development of DNA theory☆

Abstract The study of citation networks for both articles and journals is routine. In general, these analyses proceed by considering the similarity of articles or journals and submitting the set of similarity measures to some clustering or scaling procedure. Two common methods are found in bibliometric coupling, where two citing articles are similar to the extent they cite the same literature, and co-citation analysis where cited articles are similar to the extent they are cited by the same citing articles. Methods based on structural and regular equivalence also seek to partition the article based on their positional location. Such methods have in common focus on the articles and partitions of them. We propose a quite different approach where the connective threads through a network are preserved and the focus is on the links in the network rather than on the nodes. Variants of the depth first search algorithm are used to detect and represent the mainstream of the literature of a clearly delineated area of scientific research. The specific citation network is one that consists of ties among the key events and papers that lead to the discovery and modeling of DNA together with the final experimental confirmation of its representation.
Naturally occurring genetic variation affects Drosophila photoreceptor determination

The signal transduction pathway controlling determination of the identity of the R7 photoreceptor in the Drosophila eye is shown to harbor high levels of naturally occurring genetic variation. The number of ectopic R7 cells induced by the dosage-sensitive Sev S11.1 transgene that encodes a mildly activated form of the Sevenless tyrosine kinase receptor is highly sensitive to the wild-type genetic background. Phenotypes range from complete suppression to massive overproduction of photoreceptors that exceeds reported effects of known single gene modifiers, and are to some extent sex-dependent. Signaling from the dominant gain-of-function Drosophila Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (DER-Ellipse) mutations is also sensitive to the genetic backgrounds, but there is no correlation with the effects on Sev S11.1 . This implies that different genes and/or alleles modify the two activated receptor genotypes. The evolutionary significance of the existence of high levels of genetic variation in the absence of normal phenotypic variation is discussed.
Performance evaluation and planning for patient-based quality control procedures

In a recent publication, the effect of the length of time between the routine testing of quality-control (QC) samples on QC performance was studied using a newly proposed performance measure: the average number of patient samples that contain unacceptable analytic error due to an out-of-control error condition (ANPTE). We show that ANPTE also perfectly suits the evaluation of patient-based QC procedures. We used ANPTE to study the effect of the number of patient results averaged and the width of the truncation limits on an average of normals QC procedure. Estimates of ANPTE were obtained by using computer simulations that use actual patient result distributions. Based on ANPTE, the conclusions about the effects of truncation limits and number of patient results averaged on the performance of an average of normals QC procedure are substantially different from those described by others using the probability of error detection to characterize QC performance.
Probability of success in stochastic robot navigation with state feedback

The analysis in this paper applies to robots with dynamics described by a stochastic differential equation, which need to navigate in constrained environments. The approach offers a method to calculate the probability that a feedback control policy designed for the drift component of the dynamics, will succeed in allowing the robot to avoid collisions and converge to its navigation goal in the presence of stochastic (white) noise. The problem is formulated as an exit problem and known techniques in the field of stochastic processes are brought to bear to determine the probabilities that the stochastic process describing the motion of the robot will “exit” the workspace through a particular part of the boundary. We motivate the use of this analysis using a controller constructed using negative gradient of a navigation function and give the analytic solution for the case of a constrained but obstacle-free workspace.
The relationship between parental attitudes toward nature and the amount of time children spend in outdoor recreation.

The purpose of this research was to investigate the relationship between parental attitudes toward nature and the amount of time children spend in in outdoor free play activities. Parents with chil...
Patient Preferences in End-of-Life Care

Many patients do not indicate preferences for the types of care they will receive as they approach death, but even when such preferences are explicitly expressed, the patient's wishes often are not honored. This commentary reviews two recent publications on this topic and comments on it. Honoring patient's wishes regarding symptom control, resuscitation and other aspects of their end of life care should become a priority.
The Confines of Modern Constitutionalism

As a legal, political, and social movement modern constitutionalism has had an enormous impact internationally for over 200 years. As a concept modern constitutionalism is derived from enlightenment rationalism and political liberalism, and plays an important part in a certain world-view that dominates in Western Europe and the United States. This world-view posits a model of constitutionalism that is suitable for all people, in all places, and under all circumstances. The terms of modern constitutionalism, then, bear the hallmarks of a supposed universality that European and American scholars presume. In this article I discuss the terms of modern constitutionalism, the foundations for these terms, and the implications of accepting these terms uncritically.
Incorporation of Infused Palmitic-1-C14 and Linoleic-1-C14 into Plasma Lipid Fractions.∗

SummaryPalmitic-1-C14 and linoleic-1-C14 acids were infused into fasted dogs, and fractionation of the serum lipids carried out at time intervals up to 72 hours. Although many similarities were found in the metabolism of these 2 fatty acids, it was observed that linoleic-C14 acid appeared to 1) persist longer in the plasma as the FFA and 2) to be incorporated preferentially into cholesterol esters and phospholipids.The authors gratefully acknowledge the technical assistance of Miss Claudine Shepard and Miss Inez Winslow.
Dupuytren's disease in the Hispanic population: a 10-year retrospective review.

BACKGROUND: Dupuytren's disease is a common benign fibroproliferative disorder of the hand. Epidemiologic studies have reported significant variation in disease prevalence among races, focusing primarily on those of northern European descent. In contrast, Dupuytren's disease in the Hispanic population has received little attention. Thus, in this study, the authors aimed to determine the prevalence and operative rate of Dupuytren's disease in the Hispanic, black, white, Asian, Native American, and other races and to characterize the disease presentation in Hispanics who required surgical treatment. METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted to identify the racial distribution of Dupuytren's disease patients seen at Bellevue Hospital between July of 2000 and August of 2010. In Hispanic patients requiring surgical treatment for their disease, data were collected on the following parameters: age, sex, ethnicity, hand dominance, hand affected, and digits operated on. Epidemiologic factors including smoking, alcoholism, diabetes mellitus, hypercholesterolemia, epilepsy, and hypertension were also evaluated. RESULTS: Dupuytren's disease prevalence was found to be 533 per 100,000 in Hispanics. Of these patients, 1.8 percent required surgical treatment, and this group was characterized by the following comorbidities: smoking (57.1 percent), hypertension (57.1 percent), alcoholism (52.4 percent), diabetes mellitus (47.6 percent), and hypercholesterolemia (19.0 percent). CONCLUSIONS: The authors' results indicate that Dupuytren's disease is more prevalent in the Hispanic population than previously reported. Although the epidemiologic factors identified in Hispanics with Dupuytren's disease are similar to those in other races investigated, there are important differences with respect to clinical presentation and surgical treatment.
Function of the Stridulating Organs of Conotrachelus nenuphar (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

While we were conducting studies on the biology of the plum curculio, Conotrachelus nenuphar (Herbst), it became apparent that adult plum curculios produce a sound by rubbing the last abdominal tergite against the stationary elytra. Frings and Friilgs (1958) indicate that most insect sounds serve as sex attractants. To establish the significance of this behavior, a few experiments were conducted.
Hybrid Network Formation via Halogen Bonding of the Neutral Bromo-Substituted Organic Molecules with Anionic Metal–Bromide Complexes

X-ray measurements revealed that cocrystallization of various bromocarbons and tetraalkylammonium bromometallate salts lead to the formation of hybrid 3D-networks, which show short intermolecular C–Br···Br–M contacts resulting from halogen bonding between electrophilic organic species and anionic metal–bromide complexes. In particular, halogen bondings of carbon tetrabromide with [MBr4]2– complexes (M = Co, Zn, Cd) produce diamandoid networks in which nodes are occupied interchangeably by tetrahedral organic and inorganic counterparts. (NBu4)2[ZnBr4]·C3Br2F6 structure comprises diamandoid-like network in which nodes are occupied by the tetrahedral [ZnBr4]2– species connected via pairs of bromine substituents in C3Br2F6. Halogen bonding of planar [Pt2Br6]2– complexes with CBr4 and linear [CuBr2]− complexes with CHBr3 produces 3D-networks consisting of interconnected ladders. The structural characterization of this series of hybrid networks demonstrates that halogen bonding is strong enough to bring togethe...
Spermatogenesis in Immature Hypophysectomized Rats Injected with Androgens

SummaryTestosterone propionate and dehydroandrosterone acetate when administered daily at a 2 mg level to immature hypophysectomized rats induced sperm head or spermatozoon formation in the seminiferous tubules. Smaller doses were ineffective in this respect, even though they caused marked stimulation of the accessory organs. Testosterone propionate seemed in a few instances partially to prevent the adrenal cortex shrinkage which follows hypophysectomy; it is not known whether this effect was the result of a direct or indirect action by male hormone. An explanation which helps to reconcile the apparently discordant reports on the effects of androgens on spermatogenesis is suggested.