cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Opportunity for control, interpersonal impacts, and adjustment to a long-term invasive health care procedure.

This study evaluated the effects of giving patients treatment-relevant choices, and the influence of provider–patient interpersonal behaviors, on patients' adjustment to and satisfaction with a protracted healthcare procedure. 102 patients receiving complete dentures were randomly assigned to a Decisional Control group, a No-Decisional Control group, or to a Treatment as Usual Control group. No main effects for the “control” manipulations were obtained, and interactions obtained between control conditions and patient dispositional differences in locus of control were not consistent with earlier findings. Dentists' and patients' interpersonal appraisals of each other, as measured by the Impact Message Inventory, were the most significant factors accounting for patient outcome differences. Consistent with previous research, the experience of oppressive interpersonal impacts both by patients (physician low friendliness) and dentists (patient low friendliness, high dominance, high hostility) were associated with poorer patient outcomes.
The immune response to disialoganglioside GD3 vaccination in normal dogs: a melanoma surface antigen vaccine.

As a result of its metastatic potential, canine malignant melanoma like its human counterpart like its human counter part, has a poor response to conventional treatment protocols. This prompted us to investigate the possibility of enhancing the immune response against the melanoma cell surface antigen, disialoganglioside GD3. Initially a flow cytometric study was designed in which the incidence of GD3 on the cell surface, recognized by the monoclonal antibody Mel-1 (R24), was established in canine melanoma cell lines. Results from the flow cytometry found GD3 to be highly expressed (94.2%) in six out of seven canine melanoma cell lines. Since it was thus potentially a good target, a study in which normal dogs were vaccinated intradermally with a vaccine containing GD3 plus adjuvants was designed. The adjuvant included CpG oligodeoxynucleotide (CpG-ODN) sequences and RIBI-adjuvant, which are known to target toll-like receptors (TLR) of the innate immune system. From a cohort of 10 dogs, 4 were vaccinated 3 times, at 4 weekly intervals with GD3 plus adjuvant, and 4 received only RIBI-adjuvant, and 2 phosphate buffered saline. Caliper measurements were collected to assess skin reaction at the vaccination site and sera assayed for IgM and IgG antibodies against GD3 and cell-mediated cytotoxicity against a melanoma cell line. Results from the study found significant differences (P < 0.05) in the vaccine site reactions, IgM/IgG levels and cell-mediated cytotoxicity in the vaccinated versus unvaccinated dogs. The addition of CpG-ODN sequences and increasing GD3 concentration in the vaccine increased the inflammation response at the injection site. GD3 IgG and IgM antibodies in vaccinated dogs showed increasing titers over time and achieved significance at weeks 9 and 12, respectively. Cell-mediated cytotoxicity was only detected in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from vaccinated dogs. In conclusion, by combining the tumor antigen GD3 (a known weak self-antigen) and an adjuvant, tolerance was overcome by an innate and adaptive immune response in this population of normal dogs.
Microtitration of various anions with quaternary ammonium halides using solid-state electrodes

Many solid-state electrodes were found to respond as endpoint detectors in the potentiometric titration of large inorganic and organic anions with quaternary ammonium halides. The best response was obtained with the iodide and cyanide electrodes although practically any electrode can function as endpoint sensor. The titrants were hexadecylpyridinium chloride and hexadecyltrimethylammonium chloride; hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide and Hyamine 1622 may also be used. Some inorganic anions thus titratable are perrhenate, persulfate, ferricyanide, hexafluorophosphate, and hexachloroplatinate. Examples of organic anions titratable are nitroform, tetraphenylborate, cyanotriphenylborate, picrate, long-chain sulfates and sulfonates, and some soaps. The reverse titration of quaternary ammonium halides vs dodecylsulfate is also feasible. Some titrations are feasible in a partially nonaqueous medium.
Cell surface molecules of friend erythroleukemias: Decrease in T200 glycoprotein expression after induction

Monoclonal antibodies against the Thy-1 and T200 glycoproteins were used to study the expression of cell surface molecules on mouse hematopoietic cell lines. Friend erythroleukemias express T200 glycoprotein but do not express significant amounts of Thy-1 glycoprotein on their cell surface. The rate of T200 glycoprotein synthesis in maximally-induced Friend erythroleukemia 745.6 cells is less than 10% that in noninduced cells, although total protein synthesis shows only a twofold decline and induced cells express 2-6-fold less T200 glycoprotein on their surface compared to noninduced cells. T200 glycoprotein expression is reduced in a variant cell line obtained by selection for growth in dimethylsulfoxide, showing that the reduction in T200 glycoprotein synthesis characteristic of induced cells is an event that can be dissociated from commitment and hemoglobin synthesis. Analysis of T200 glycoprotein negative cell lines, isolated by cytotoxic immunoselection against T200 glycoprotein, indicates that the presence of T200 glycoprotein on the cell surface is not necessary for induction of hemoglobin synthesis and terminal differentiation of Friend erythroleukemias.
Activity and quantity of ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase-and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase-protein in two Crassulacean acid metabolism plants in relation to leaf age, nitrogen nutrition, and point in time during a day/night cycle.

Activity of ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate (RuBP) carboxylase in leaf extracts of the constitutive Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) plant Kalanchoe pinnata (Lam.) Pers. decreased with increasing leaf age, whereas the activity of phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP) carboxylase increased. Changes in enzyme activities were associated with changes in the amount of enzyme proteins as determined by immunochemical analysis, sucrose density gradient centrifugation, and SDS gel electrophoresis of leaf extracts. Young developing leaves of plants which received high amounts of NO 3 (-) during growth contained about 30% of the total soluble protein in the form of RuBP carboxylase; this value declined to about 17% in mature leaves. The level of PEP carboxylase in young leaves of plants at high NO 3 (-) was an estimated 1% of the total soluble protein and increased to approximately 10% in mature leaves, which showed maximum capacity for dark CO2 fixation. The growth of plants at low levels of NO 3 (-) decreased the content of soluble protein per unit leaf area as well as the extractable activity and the percentage contribution of both RUBP carboxylase and PEP carboxylase to total soluble leaf protein. There was no definite change in the ratio of RuBP carboxylase to PEP carboxylase activity with a varying supply of NO 3 (-) during growth. It has been suggested (e.g., Planta 144, 143-151, 1978) that a rhythmic pattern of synthesis and degradation of PEP carboxylase protein is involved in the regulation of β-carboxylation during a day/night cycle in CAM. No such changes in the quantity of PEP carboxylase protein were observed in the leaves of Kalanchoe pinnata (Lam.) Pers. or in the leaves of the inducible CAM plant Mesembryanthemum crystallinum L.
Mapping brain networks in awake mice using combined optical neural control and fMRI

Behaviors and brain disorders involve neural circuits that are widely distributed in the brain. The ability to map the functional connectivity of distributed circuits, and to assess how this connectivity evolves over time, will be facilitated by methods for characterizing the network impact of activating a specific subcircuit, cell type, or projection pathway. We describe here an approach using high-resolution blood oxygenation level-dependent (BOLD) functional MRI (fMRI) of the awake mouse brain-to measure the distributed BOLD response evoked by optical activation of a local, defined cell class expressing the light-gated ion channel channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2). The utility of this opto-fMRI approach was explored by identifying known cortical and subcortical targets of pyramidal cells of the primary somatosensory cortex (SI) and by analyzing how the set of regions recruited by optogenetically driven SI activity differs between the awake and anesthetized states. Results showed positive BOLD responses in a distributed network that included secondary somatosensory cortex (SII), primary motor cortex (MI), caudoputamen (CP), and contralateral SI (c-SI). Measures in awake compared with anesthetized mice (0.7% isoflurane) showed significantly increased BOLD response in the local region (SI) and indirectly stimulated regions (SII, MI, CP, and c-SI), as well as increased BOLD signal temporal correlations between pairs of regions. These collective results suggest opto-fMRI can provide a controlled means for characterizing the distributed network downstream of a defined cell class in the awake brain. Opto-fMRI may find use in examining causal links between defined circuit elements in diverse behaviors and pathologies.
Retardation of experimental oral cancer by topical vitamin E

Abstract Forty‐eight young male and female golden hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus) were divided into four groups of 12 animals each. The left buccal pouches of Group 1 and 2 animals were painted 3 times weekly with a 0.5% solution of 7,12‐dimethyl‐benz(a)anthracene (DMBA) in heavy mineral oil for 7 weeks. At the end of this period, the left buccal pouches of Group 2 animals were painted 3 times weekly with vitamin E (DL‐α‐tocopherol, in pure form) for an additional 4 weeks. Group 3 animals were painted with vitamin E only, for 4 weeks. Group 4 animals were untreated controls. Group 2 animals demonstrated a significant delay in tumor formation in comparison with Group 1 animals. Gross observation revealed fewer and smaller tumors in the Group 2 animals; microscopic examination revealed smaller tumors with better cellular differentiation and less invasion. No tumors were observed in Group 3 and Group 4 animals. These observations were similar to those made in previous studies of oral carcinogenesis using sys...
Supporting Creativity and User Interaction in CS 1 Homework Assignments

In this paper, we describe CS 1 programming assignments that encourage design creativity and that utilize user testing. All course assignments allowed for some student-defined specifications; some assignments required user tests to encourage interaction with other people. The open-ended nature of the assignments supported students' creativity and motivation to learn. The user tests provided a platform for students to share their creations and knowledge about computing with others. Both the creative aspect and sharing aspect of the assignments led to students taking ownership of their work. Overall, 41 of 44 (93.2%) students enjoyed the open-ended nature of the assignments and sharing programs with users also enhanced their understanding of their programs and computing concepts.
Inhibition of mouse hepatocyte intercellular communication by phthalate monoesters.

A series of straight and branched chain phthalate monoesters were examined for their effects on hepatocyte intercellular communication in male B6C3F1 mouse hepatocytes. Intercellular communication was determined autoradiographically following the passage and incorporation of [5-3H]uridine nucleotides from pre-labelled hepatocytes into non-labelled hepatocytes. Intercellular communication was evaluated in hepatocytes after 8 h treatment of straight and branched chain phthalate esters at sublethal concentrations. Straight chain phthalate monoesters (mono(ethyl)phthalate, mono(n-butyl) phthalate, mono(n-hexyl)phthalate, mono(n-octyl)phthalate, mono(n-nonyl)phthalate and mono(isononyl)phthalate) had no effect on hepatocyte intercellular communication. Branched chain phthalate monoesters that contained an ethylalkyl moiety (i.e. mono(2-ethylpropyl) phthalate, mono(2-ethylbutyl)phthalate, mono(2-ethylpentyl)-phthalate and mono(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate) inhibited intercellular communication. These results show a structure-activity relationship in the ability of phthalate monoesters to inhibit intercellular communication in mouse hepatocytes. Based upon previous correlations between inhibition of intercellular communication in hepatocytes and hepatocarcinogenicity, these data suggest that branched chain phthalate esters may be liver carcinogens in male B6C3F1 mice.
THE DEVELOPMENT OF SET THEORY AND ITS APPLICATION TO ECONOMIC ANALYSIS

During the twentieth century mathematics has expanded at an unprecedented rate. This expansion has been accompanied by the increased application of mathematics to science. At a time when pure mathematics has been placing more and more emphasis on abstraction and the analysis of broad concepts there has been a corresponding proliferation of practical applications. This seems to have resulted from the fact that the sciences, too, have become more concerned with the discernment of general patterns in the study of nature. This search for simplifying ideas has increased the demand for ever more abstract tools of analysis.
The stability of salt bridges at high temperatures: implications for hyperthermophilic proteins

Salt bridges have been proposed to play a crucial role in promoting hyperthermostability in proteins, yet they appear to make little contribution to protein stability at room temperature. The latter point has been rationalized previously on the basis that the association of two charged molecules to form a salt bridge incurs a substantial desolvation penalty, which is seldom completely compensated by favourable interactions within the salt bridge and with the rest of the protein. Here a continuum solvation model is used to investigate how this same argument applies at temperatures more appropriate to hyperthermophiles. The solvation model employed was previously parameterised to reproduce the hydration free energies of neutral and charged amino acid side-chains in the temperature range from 5-100 degreesC. A key result of the previous work was that the hydration free energies of charged side-chains are more adversely affected by increasing temperature than are the hydration free energies of hydrophobic side-chains of identical size and shape (isosteres). As is shown here, a direct consequence of the temperature dependence of the hydration free energies is that at high temperatures the desolvation penalty for formation of a salt bridge is markedly reduced in magnitude. As a result, the argument that relative to hydrophobic isosteres, salt bridges destabilise proteins, may no longer be true at high temperatures. We demonstrate this point first in the setting of a small model system, but then also show that the same argument is likely to carry over to real proteins. We compare three hyperthermophilic proteins with their mesophilic homologues and find that hydration effects preferentially stabilise the hyperthermophiles at high temperatures. When the hydration effects are incorporated into a model for the free energy of folding of the proteins, it is found that in each case, the hyperthermophile is predicted to remain stable to a temperature 20-25 deg.C higher than the corresponding mesophile. Higher thermal stability for the hyperthermophile is obtained even if the mesophile is more stable at room temperature. The results obtained therefore suggest one possible way in which the apparently destabilising effects of salt bridges at room temperature can be reconciled with their increased abundance in hyperthermophilic proteins.
Determination of E. gracilis mRNA base composition using high-pressure liquid chromatography☆

Abstract The purine and pyrimidine bases of E. gracilis have been separated using a high-pressure liquid chromatograph (HPLC). Each base was unambiguously identified by its characteristic elution profile and UV absorption spectrum. This method allows for the study of the base composition of mRNAs altered by pathological processes, exemplified here by the analysis and comparison of mRNAs from zinc sufficient and deficient organisms.
Measuring the quality of colorectal cancer screening: the importance of follow-up.

Purpose:As evidence mounts for effectiveness, an increasing proportion of the United States population undergoes colorectal cancer screening. However, relatively little is known about rates of follow-up after abnormal results from initial screening tests. This study examines patterns of colorectal c
Efficient optimization of nanoplasmonic devices using space mapping

We show that the space-mapping algorithm, originally developed for microwave circuit optimization, can enable the efficient optimization of nanoplasmonic devices. Space-mapping utilizes a physics-based coarse model to approximate a fine model accurately describing a device. The main concept in the algorithm is to find a mapping that relates the fine and coarse model parameters. If such a mapping is established, we can then avoid using the direct optimization of the computationally expensive fine model to find the optimal solution. Instead, we perform optimization of the computationally efficient coarse model to find its optimal solution, and then use the mapping to find an estimate of the fine model optimal. In this paper, we demonstrate the use of the space mapping algorithm for the optimization of metal dielectric- metal plasmonic waveguide devices. In our case, the fine model is a full-wave finite-difference frequency domain (FDFD) simulation of the device, while the coarse model is based on the characteristic impedance and transmission line theory. We show that, if we simply use the coarse model to optimize the structure without space mapping, the response of the structure obtained substantially deviates from the target response. On the other hand, using space mapping we obtain structures which match very well the target response. In addition, full-wave FDFD simulations of only a few candidate structures are required before the optimal solution is reached. In comparison, a direct optimization using the fine FDFD model in combination with a genetic algorithm requires thousands of full-wave FDFD simulations to reach the same optimal.
Protein Interactions Regulate Virus Assembly and Replication

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) capsids are metabolic compartments for reverse transcription. Capsids are constructed from 120 self-assembling core protein (Cp) dimers. Assembly of capsids is regulated by the protein-protein interactions at core protein interface. We hypothesize that the Cp interactions are tuned for virus replication not for capsid stability.To test this hypothesis we designed Cp mutants with different contact energies. The starting point for our design was the structure of HBV capsid bound to heteroaryldihydropyrimidines (HAPs), small antiviral molecules that accelerate capsid assembly and strengthen Cp association by binding to a hydrophobic pocket at the Cp interface. We created mutants that filled the HAP pocket with different sized hydrophobic amino acids (V124A, V124L, V124F and V124W). The biophysical assembly properties of these mutants correlated well with the substitution. There was a linear relationship between the change in buried surface area and capsid association energy with an estimated −9 cal/(mol A2).However, in cell culture, these mutants have pleiotropic effects on DNA replication. Only the wild type Cp supported maximal DNA production. Mutants with stronger or weaker association energy were destructive to virus replication. Together, these data support our hypothesis that capsid association is tuned for virus replication. The proper stability of the capsid ensures its biological role in virus life cycle.
Isolation and functional analysis of the promoter of the rat CMP-NeuAc:GM3 α2,8 sialyltransferase gene

A 2.1-kb 5'-flanking fragment of the rat CMP-NeuAc:GM3 alpha2,8 sialyltransferase (GD3-synthase) gene was cloned by the genomic walking procedure. The promoter activity of the fragment was assessed in F-11 cells by transient transfection and the locations for the basal and maximal promoter activities were defined. Primer extension analysis identified a transcription start site approximately 98 bp upstream of the ATG start codon. DNA sequence analysis of the promoter revealed a number of consensus binding sites for known transcription factors such as SP1, AP1, NFkappaB, C/EBP and TFIID, and a repeat GC-GT sequence motif seen for the formation of Z-type DNA. Both TATA and CCAAT boxes were not found in the promoter. Our results from deletion constructs suggested that both positive and negative cis-acting regulatory regions were present in this TATA-less promoter of the rat GD3-synthase gene.
The Impossible Takes a Little Longer: Implementing a Copyright Policy for Electronic Reserves

SUMMARY Librarians often cringe when they hear the word copyright, when it is combined with electronic reserves the immediate impulse is to run away as far and as fast as possible. This paper presents the process used by the Armacost Library staff at the University of Redlands to develop and implement a copyright policy for the electronic reserve collection. The development of the policy, the implementation, and the procedures used for copyright compliance are presented. Other libraries of similar size that are struggling with the copyright issues specific to electronic reserves will hopefully be able to use this example as a model.
Perspective: A Grand Challenge to Academic Medicine: Speak Out on Gay Rights

Social responsibility, a dearly held value in the medical community, requires that medicine use its influence to end discrimination and to reduce barriers that affect access to care. Although the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) population has been identified as suffering from health care disparities and oppression, the medical community and its affiliated organizations have done little to lobby in defense of the GLBT population. And with regard to the specific issue of gay marriage, medicine has yet to raise its voice in that debate, even if only to correct unscientific, capricious, and slanderous depictions of GLBT relationships. Closer to home, in medical schools and residencies, GLBT faculty and students are not provided with a safe and equal environment in which to work and learn. No credentialing provisions require residencies and their affiliate hospitals to include GLBT status in their nondiscrimination policies or to offer GLBT faculty and residents equal benefits. There is no assurance that those in power at peer-reviewed journals will use reviewers who are familiar with the research on sexual minorities to review manuscripts on GLBT topics, a situation that likely contributes to the community's status as an understudied population. Medicine cannot fulfill its obligation to GLBT patients, students, and faculty without a considerable and determined commitment to change. Some of the suggested remedies would require amending policy at the level of the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education and the Association of American Medical Colleges.
The Cross-technique for single-incision pediatric endosurgical pyloromyotomy

Single-incision pediatric endosurgical (SIPES) pyloromyotomy is frequently used for the treatment of hypertrophic pyloric stenosis at our center. Our initial SIPES approach mirrored the conventional, triangulated laparoscopic pyloromyotomy. Because an increased number of perforations were noted on our initial analysis, a more straightforward Cross-technique SIPES pyloromyotomy was developed. This study compares the current Cross-technique SIPES pyloromyotomy to the previous standard SIPES operation. The Cross-technique entails grasping the antrum with the surgeon’s left hand instrument, retracting toward the left lower quadrant, and thereby orienting the pylorus obliquely toward the right upper quadrant. The serosal incision and muscular spreading is accomplished using a right-hand instrument that crosses over the left hand grasper. Demographic variables, operative times, estimated blood loss (EBL), complications, conversion rate, and postoperative length of stay were compared. Twenty-nine Cross-technique patients were compared with 23 in the standard group. The Cross-technique was faster than the standard procedure (21 ± 5 vs. 27 ± 12 min, p = 0.03) and EBL was lower (1.3 ± 0.5 vs. 1.7 ± 0.6 ml, p = 0.02). There were two mucosal perforations requiring conversions to triangulated 3-access-site laparoscopy in the standard, and one conversion to open surgery in the Cross-technique group. Patients who underwent cross-technique pyloromyotomy weighed less (3.6 ± 0.6 vs. 4.0 ± 0.5 kg, p = 0.012), but there were no differences in age, gender ratio, conversion rate, or length of stay. There was one postoperative wound infection in the cross-technique, but none in the standard group. No patients required reoperation. All participating surgeons felt that the cross-technique was more ergonomic and easier to perform than the standard SIPES technique. The Cross-technique appears superior to standard SIPES pyloromyotomy and should be preferentially used for single-incision endosurgical pyloromyotomy for hypertrophic pyloric stenosis.
Nitrous Oxide Analgesia for Minor Pediatric Surgical Procedures: An Effective Alternative to Conscious Sedation?

Abstract Background/purpose Minor surgical procedures in children, while usually not requiring general anesthesia, need effective control of pain, anxiety, and motion. Certain techniques of conscious sedation may result in loss of protective airway reflexes. Nitrous oxide, however, when inhaled at levels below 50% maintains protective reflexes and does not require fasting or postprocedure monitoring. This study prospectively examines the efficacy of nitrous oxide analgesia in children undergoing outpatient surgical procedures. Methods Over a 2-year period (2000 to 2002), 150 consecutive children were given nitrous oxide analgesia as an alternative to a general anesthetic, sedation, or local anesthetic alone. Nitrous oxide ( Results Of 150 children, 5 were uncooperative and could not participate. One hundred forty-five children, ages 1 to 20 years (Mean, 9.83 ± 4.92 years) successfully underwent procedures (58 cyst/nevus excisions, 49 abscess drainages, 38 other) using nitrous. Two patients were too young to score pain. Pre- and postprocedure pain scores were significantly higher in the abscess group ( P Conclusions Nitrous oxide analgesia is a cost-effective and efficacious alternative to conscious sedation or general anesthesia for minor pediatric surgical procedures. In the office or outpatient setting, the technique provides for almost pain/anxiety-free surgery, no postoperative monitoring, and a high degree of satisfaction for patients, parents, and staff.
Recombinant adenovirus: a gene transfer vector for study and treatment of CNS diseases.

Gene transfer to the CNS with recombinant adenoviral vectors is a relatively recent event. In initial reports it was clearly demonstrated that adenoviral vectors can transfer genetic material to multiple cell types within the CNS. The relative ease in generating recombinant adenovirus (Ad) led to feasibility studies in the CNS with application to animal models of inherited disease, neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Parkinson's and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), and cerebrovascular disease. In combination with Ad gene transfer to peripheral tissues, these experiments have identified specific limitations and directed further research to improve vector design, formulation, and delivery.
Self-regulation, Corporate Social Responsibility, and the Business Case: Do they Work in Achieving Workplace Equality and Safety?

The political shift toward an economic liberalism in many developed market economies, emphasizing the importance of the marketplace rather than government intervention in the economy and society (Dorman, Systematic Occupational Health and Safety Management: Perspectives on an International Development, 2000; Tombs, Policy and Practice in Health and Safety 3(1):24–25, 2005; Walters, Policy and Practice in Health and Safety 03(2):3–19, 2005), featured a prominent discourse centered on the need for business flexibility and competitiveness in a global economy (Dorman, 2000; Tombs, 2005). Alongside these developments was an increasing pressure for corporate social responsibility (CSR). The business case for CSR – that corporations would benefit from voluntarily being socially responsible – was increasingly promoted by governments and corporations as part of the justification for self-regulation. The aim of the article is to examine more closely the proposition that self-regulation is effective, with particular reference to the business case for workplace equality and safety. Based on a comprehensive literature review and documentary analysis, it was found that current predominant management discourse and practice focusing on diversity and safety management systems (OHSMS) resonate well with a government and corporate preference for the business case and self-regulation. However, the centrality of individual rather than organizational factors in diversity and OHSMS means that systemic discrimination and inherent workplace hazards are downplayed, making it less likely that employers will initiate structural remedies needed for real change. Thus, reliance on the business case in the argument for self-regulation is problematic. In terms of government policy and management practice, the business case needs to be supplemented by strong, proactive legislation, and worker involvement.
Predictions of Radionuclide Migration Rates for a Subseabed Repository

Geochemical research carried out by the U.S. Subseabed Disposal Program is described. Data from studies of high temperature interactions between sediments and porewater (seawater), and of sorption and diffusion of radionuclides in oxidized, deep-sea sediments are used, along with results from heat transfer studies, to predict migration rates of radionuclides in a subseabed repository. Preliminary results for most radionuclides in oxidized sediments are very encouraging: fission products with moderate values of KD (generally 10 to 10 ml/g), and actinides with high values of KD (generally 103 to 106 ml/g) would not migrate significant distances before decaying to innocous concentrations. 137Cs, 90Sr, and 239Pu are among this group. The results for anionic species are less encouraging, but preliminary work with reduced sediments indicates that Tc can be effectively isolated. Planning for a field verification of these laboratory and modeling studies is also described.
High-Temperature Capacitor Polymer Films

Film capacitor technology has been under development for over half a century to meet various applications such as direct-current link capacitors for transportation, converters/inverters for power electronics, controls for deep well drilling of oil and gas, direct energy weapons for military use, and high-frequency coupling circuitry. The biaxially oriented polypropylene film capacitor remains the state-of-the-art technology; however, it is not able to meet increasing demand for high-temperature (>125°C) applications. A number of dielectric materials capable of operating at high temperatures (>140°C) have attracted investigation, and their modifications are being pursued to achieve higher volumetric efficiency as well. This paper highlights the status of polymer dielectric film development and its feasibility for capacitor applications. High-temperature polymers such as polyetherimide (PEI), polyimide, and polyetheretherketone were the focus of our studies. PEI film was found to be the preferred choice for high-temperature film capacitor development due to its thermal stability, dielectric properties, and scalability.
Claims about the reliability of student evaluations of instruction: The ecological fallacy rides again

Abstract The vast majority of the research on student evaluation of instruction has assessed the reliability of groups of courses and yielded either a single reliability coefficient for the entire group, or grouped reliability coefficients for each student evaluation of teaching (SET) item. This manuscript argues that these practices constitute a form of ecological correlation and therefore yield incorrect estimates of reliability. Intraclass reliability and agreement coefficients were proposed as appropriate for making statements about the reliability of SETs in specific classes. An analysis of 1073 course sections using inter-rater coefficients found that students using this particular instrument were generally unable to reliably evaluate faculty. In contrast, the traditional ecologically flawed multi-class “group” reliability coefficients had generally acceptable reliability.
Comparison of nasopharyngeal washings and swab specimens for diagnosis of respiratory syncytial virus by EIA, FAT, and cell culture

Respiratory secretions for viral diagnosis are often collected with nasopharyngeal (NP) swabs, although many laboratories recommend NP aspirates or washings. We compared results using NP washings and NP swabs in three diagnostic RSV tests, a rapid RSV EIA antigen test (Abbott Laboratories), an indirect fluorescent antibody test (FAT) with rabbit antiserum, and virus culture (HEp-2 cells). Paired samples were collected from 121 children with suspected RSV bronchiolitis or pneumonia. A minitip swap was passed into the nasopharynx for 10 sec, rotated and withdrawn. The opposite nares was irrigated with approximately 1 ml of saline and aspirated using a syringe and plastic feeding tube. Fifty-one children (42%) grew RSV in culture, 49 from NP washings versus 27 from NP swabs (p less than 0.001). Fifty-three (44%) were positive by FAT, 52 from NP washings versus 12 from NP swabs (p less than 0.001). Fifty-eight children (48%) had positive RSV EIA tests, 57 from NP washings versus 35 from NP swabs (p less than 0.001). Detection by EIA was more sensitive than culture regardless of the method of specimen collection. We conclude that NP washings are superior to NP swabs for RSV culture and rapid diagnosis by EIA or FAT.
Clarity of Films from Wool Keratin

The keratin in wool is a highly crosslinked protein. The high molecular weight, crosslinked structure prevents its shaping into films without extensive decomposition. Since the crosslinks are —S—S— bridges, reducing agents can break them up. resulting temporarily in lower molecular weight polymers. In this work, wool fibers are pretreated with an aqueous solution of various reducing agents to open the disulfide bonds, and then pressed into films at 130-150°C and pressures of 41.7-66.7 MPa in a hydraulic press. The optimum conditions to obtain clear, transparent films include using Na2SO3 in aqueous alcohol solutions before pressing 135°C and 55.6 MPa.
MINIMIZING FLOWTIME SUBJECT TO OPTIMAL MAKESPAN ON TWO IDENTICAL PARALLEL MACHINES

We consider the problem of scheduling jobs on two parallel identical machines where an optimal schedule is defined as one that gives the smallest total flowtime (the sum of the completion time of all jobs) among the set of schedules with optimal makespan (the completion time of the latest job). Utilizing an existing optimization algorithm for the minimization of makespan, we propose an algorithm to determine optimal schedules for this problem. We empirically show that the proposed algorithm can quickly find optimal schedules for problems containing a large number of jobs.
Multiplicity and stability of oscillatory states in a continuous stirred tank reactor with exothermic consecutive reactions A → B → C

Abstract We study the dimensionless heat and mass balance equations describing a continuous stirred tank reactor in which there is occurring consecutive first order exothermic reactions. Analytical asymptotic calculations and numerical calculations are presented for both steady states and oscillatory states. A formal perturbation theory, via multitime scale techniques, is derived to account for limit cycles in phase space. The theory produces formulas which are immediately interpretable physically and from which the stability of the oscillations is immediately resolved without recourse to further techniques. Furthermore, numerical calculations via our theory are performed which are far cheaper and easier than a direct numerical search and computation involving the long time study of the basic differential equations.
Comparison of magnetic dipole excitations in the f7/2 shell region with the new collective excitations in 156Gd.

It is noted that in a single j shell (f/sub 7/2/) calculation in the titanium isotopes one obtains M1 rates of about one single particle unit in strength to states at about 4 MeV excitation. This is systematically consistent with the recently discovered collective excitations in /sup 156/Gd, and neighboring nuclei. In the single j shell case, though, the spin and orbital contributions to the M1 matrix element are nearly the same.
Behavior of the topside ionosphere during a great magnetic storm.

Variations in electron density distribution of topside ionosphere obtained from Alouette 1 during great magnetic storm of 17-18 April 1965
Robots as Faculty: Student and Faculty Perceptions

Abstract Background Little is known about the feasibility of remote-presence robotics in nursing education. This study was designed to answer the question, How do nursing faculty and undergraduate nursing students describe the usefulness, effectiveness, and user friendliness of, and their satisfaction with, a remote-presence robot as a distance education technology for a simulated clinical experience? Method This exploratory, descriptive study used two researcher-developed surveys to assess faculty and student perceptions of the use of a robot in teaching nursing students in a distant laboratory experience. Results A high acceptance of the robot was reported by 82% of faculty ( N = 10) and 87% of students ( N = 82). Conclusions Results of this study indicate that faculty and students feel positively about this technology as a teaching strategy, suggesting further exploration of its use in nursing education.
On Self-Consistent Operators With Application to Operators of Fractional Order

This paper extends the idea of the initialization function to the more general concept of a continuation function. The paper sets forth definitions for operator self-consistency which are then applied to test three operators, the ordinary Riemann integral, the time-varying initialized Riemann-Liouville fractional integral, and finally the Caputo derivative. Self-consistency was found for the first two cases. The Caputo fractional derivative operator was found to be self-inconsistent based on possible continuation functions derived from the Laplace transform of the derivative. A theoretical continuation function was derived which does make the derivative self-consistent, but requires a time-varying initialization function negating a primary attraction of this derivative.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Experiments on Picture Representation Using Regular Decomposition

The problem of building a computer-searchable data representation for a complex image and the effect of representation on algorithms for scene segmentation into regions is considered. A regular decomposition of picture area into successively smaller quadrants is defined, which involves logarithmic search. This hierarchical search and resulting picture representation are shown to enable rapid access of image data without regard to position, efficient storage, and approximate structural descriptions of constituent patterns. Examples involving solid geometrical objects and alphabetic characters are given.
Returns to scale pattern and efficient firm size in the public accounting industry: an empirical investigation

This paper employs Data Envelopment Analysis to investigate returns to scale patterns and efficient firm size in the public accounting industry in the USA post-Sarbanes–Oxley Act. Using contemporary survey data from Accounting Today's top-100 accounting firms for the years 2003 and 2004, our results indicate that the very largest accounting (first tier) firms display constant returns to scale, whereas approximately half of the smaller (second tier) firms exhibit increasing returns to scale. These findings suggest that while very large firms are optimally scaled, there still are economic efficiencies to be gained through expanding the size of nearly half of the second-tier accounting firms. Results for the remaining second-tier firms show either constant or decreasing returns to scale, indicating that they are either already optimally sized or that they should consider contraction. The results for the second-tier firms remain qualitatively unchanged when the first-tier firms are excluded from the estimation.
Charged-Pion Electroproduction from Protons up to Q 2 = 9.5 Gev 2

New measurements of inclusive pion electroproduction are reported. Data were taken with a hydrogen target at the (W,Q/sup 2/) points (2.2 GeV, 1.2 GeV/sup 2/), (2.7,2.0), (2.7,3.3), (2.7,6.2), (2.7,9.5), and (3.1,4.5). The invariant structure function is studied as a function of W, Q/sup 2/, ..omega.., and x'. (AIP)
Does a unique type of CA3 pyramidal cell in primates bypass the dentate gate

The predominant excitatory synaptic input to the hippocampus arises from entorhinal cortical axons that synapse with dentate granule cells, which in turn synapse with CA3 pyramidal cells.Thus two h...
Responses of cells in the mormyrid electrosensory lobe to EODs with distorted waveforms: implications for capacitance detection

Mormyrid fish (Gnathonemus petersii) can discriminate between ohmic and capacitive electrical objects during active electrolocation. The neural basis of this ability was investigated by recording cells in the dorsolateraland medial zones of the electrosensory lobe. Natural electric organ discharges (EODs) distorted by capacitive objects and EODs with computer generated phase shifts were used as stimuli.
Antimicrobial Activity of Some β-Nitrostyrenes

Nine compounds were tested for antimicrobial activity, and eight of these exhibited varying spectra of inhibition.
Metabolic mechanisms regulating distinct steps of the melanoma metastatic cascade

Background Metastasis is a complex multistep process: cancer cells have to detach from the bulk of the primary tumor, intravasate into the blood, survive anoikis and high shear forces in the blood, extravasate to a distal site, and finally proliferate to form metastatic nodules. It is unclear what molecular mechanisms enable some cancer cells to go through every step in the metastatic cascade. In particular, it is not known if the rare tumor cells that enter the circulation and grow at a distal site are metabolically different from the bulk of primary tumor cells, and if any such metabolic differences are important for metastasis. Results Melanomas taken directly from patients were serially xeno-transplanted subcutaneously in severely immunocompromised mice. Distant metastasis in the mouse correlated strongly with distant metastasis in patients. Metabolomic profiling showed several metabolic differences between primary tumors and corresponding metastatic nodules. We are testing if these metabolic differences can control cellular signaling pathways, and if manipulation of metabolism can affect metastasis in vivo. Additionally, we are exploring differences in the mitochondrial biology of primary tumors and metastatic nodules. Finally, we are developing a method to detect the metabolic profile of rare circulating tumor cells using the same melanoma xenograft model in order to track the metabolic changes in melanoma cells at every step of the metastatic cascade. Conclusions Identification of metabolic changes that occur during the metastatic cascade raises the possibility that metabolism is functionally important not only for primary tumor growth but also for tumor survival in the blood, colonization of distal organs, and formation of overt metastatic nodules. More detailed understanding of these metabolic mechanisms will allow us to identify new therapeutic targets to block metastasis.
The distribution of satellite cells and their relationship to specific fiber types in soleus and extensor digitorum longus muscles

Fiber type classification of p-phenylene-diamine-stained transverse sections of rat skeletal muscle correlated with electron microscopic observations demonstrate that satellite cells are not equally distributed among the various fiber types in either the EDL or soleus at 1 and 12 months of age. Of the three fiber types in the EDL, satellite cells are observed most frequently on Type IIA fibers, and at approximately equal frequencies on Type IIB and Type I fibers. Satellite cells in the soleus, in contrast to the EDL, are not often encountered on Type IIA fibers, but are preferentially associated with Type I fibers in that muscle. The frequency with which satellite cells are found on specific fiber types is distinct for the soleus and EDL and appears to correspond with their growth characteristics. The distribution of satellite cells according to fiber type does not provide an explanation for the differences in the percentage of satellite cell nuclei between the EDL and soleus.
1,4-Addition of Lithium Diisopropylamide to Unsaturated Esters: Role of Rate-Limiting Deaggregation, Autocatalysis, Lithium Chloride Catalysis, and Other Mixed Aggregation Effects

Lithium diisopropylamide (LDA) in tetrahydrofuran at -78 °C undergoes 1,4-addition to an unsaturated ester via a rate-limiting deaggregation of LDA dimer followed by a post-rate-limiting reaction with the substrate. Muted autocatalysis is traced to a lithium enolate-mediated deaggregation of the LDA dimer and the intervention of LDA-lithium enolate mixed aggregates displaying higher reactivities than LDA. Striking accelerations are elicited by <1.0 mol % LiCl. Rate and mechanistic studies have revealed that the uncatalyzed and catalyzed pathways funnel through a common monosolvated-monomer-based intermediate. Four distinct classes of mixed aggregation effects are discussed.
Strong Traces for Solutions to Scalar Conservation Laws with General Flux

In this paper we consider bounded weak solutions u of scalar conservation laws, not necessarily of class BV, defined in a subset \(\Omega\subset{\mathbb{R}}^+\times{\mathbb{R}}\) . We define a strong notion of trace at the boundary of \(\Omega\) reached by L1 convergence for a large class of functionals of u, G(u). The functionals G depend on the flux function of the conservation law and on the boundary of \(\Omega\). The result holds for a general flux function and a general subset.