cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Prediction of higher heating values for saturated fatty acids from their physical properties

Abstract Higher heating values (HHVs) of fatty acids (C 4 –C 18 ) were measured and correlated using linear least square regression analysis. Equations were developed for the estimation of the HHVs of saturated fatty acids from their molecular weight (Mw), density (DN) and carbon number (CN). These equations are HHV = 0.0518 Mw + 29.76, HHV = −93.4 DN + 122.67 and HHV = 0.7271 CN + 31.419 with R 2 values of 0.9895, 0.9798, and 0.9895, respectively. The correlations may be used for HHV estimation of mixtures of fatty acids developed from vegetable oils.
Concurrent and discriminant validity of the Gordon Diagnostic System: A preliminary study

The discriminant and concurrent validity of the Gordon Diagnostic System (GDS) was investigated in 29 youngsters categorized into “normals” or “ADHDs” based on teacher ratings. The results failed to demonstrate the discriminant validity of any GDS score regardless of the behavior rating used. The Vigilance Correct and Vigilance Omission scores were significantly correlated with ADHD Rating Scale scores completed by teachers. The sample size in the study demands cautious interpretation of these results; however, the authors suggest the continued use of multiple behavior ratings by teachers as the “gold standard” for the classification of youngsters with a suspected Attention-deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation as a bridge to definitive tracheal reconstruction in neonates

Abstract Purpose Infants born with severe tracheal anomalies may not survive beyond the first few hours of life without aggressive cardiopulmonary support and/or emergent airway surgery. The purpose of this study was to review our experience with critically ill neonates supported on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) before tracheal reconstruction. Methods A retrospective review of a single institution ECMO registry was conducted. Outcomes of neonates requiring tracheal repair were examined. Results Three children with tracheal anomalies (complete tracheal rings [n = 2]; bronchogenic cyst [n = 1]) underwent definitive airway reconstruction. All were placed on ECMO (venovenous [n = 2]; venoarterial [n = 1]) within 24 hours after birth. Tracheoplasties (tracheal resection with end-to-end anastomosis [n = 1]; slide tracheoplasty [n = 1]; carinal resection and reconstruction [n = 1]) were performed at 3.7 ± 2.2 days of life. There were no hemorrhagic or thrombotic complications for an ECMO time of 117.3 ± 60.1 hours. The postoperative durations until extubation and hospital discharge were 12.0 ± 3.2 and 34.3 ± 11.6 days, respectively. All children remain alive and well without cardiopulmonary and neurologic sequelae at a mean follow-up of 4.5 years. Conclusions Excellent clinical outcomes can be achieved in neonates born with severe tracheal anomalies using ECMO as a bridge to definitive tracheal reconstruction.
The effects of trypsin on purified myelin

Abstract The effect of proteolytic activity on myelin was investigated by incubating purified myelin with trypsin. After 1 h, myelin was re-isolated by centrifugation. The ‘myelin’ pellet and supernatant obtained after hypotonic treatment were extracted with chloroform-methanol (2:1, v/v), and the chloroform-methanol-insoluble proteins, chloroform-methanol-soluble proteins, cholesterol, cerebroside, sulfatide and phosphatides were quantitated. The results indicate that trypsin digestion of myelin leads to extensive loss of material into the supernatant. The protein of the ‘myelin’ pellet was altered so that 67% was chloroform-methanol insoluble, while native myelin had only 5% insoluble protein. Trypsin binds to the myelin membrane and 35% of the total protein of the ‘myelin’ pellet could be accounted for as trypsin. The molar composition of the lipid components showed slight differences from that of the starting material in that there was a greater loss of phospholipids than other lipids from the recovered ‘myelin’. This is reflected by a higher phospholipid content in the supernatant. The disruptive effects of trypsin were not observed in myelin incubated only in water or buffer.
Effects of Backbone and Side Chain on the Molecular Environments of Chiral Cavities in Polysaccharide-Based Biopolymers

The effects of the backbone and side chain on the molecular environments in the chiral cavities of three commercially important polysaccharide-based chiral sorbentscellulose tris(3,5-dimethylphenylcarbamate) (CDMPC), amylose tris(3,5-dimethylphenylcarbamate) (ADMPC), and amylose tris[(S)-α-methylbenzylcarbamate] (ASMBC)are studied by attenuated total reflection infrared spectroscopy (ATR-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), 13C cross-polarization/magic-angle spinning (CP/MAS) and MAS solid-state NMR, and density functional theory (DFT) modeling. These sorbents are used widely in preparative-scale chiral separations. ATR-IR is used to determine how the H-bonding states of the CO and NH groups of the polymer depend on the backbone and side chain. The changes in the polymer crystallinity are characterized with XRD. The changes in the polymer helicity and molecular mobility for polymer-coated silica beads (commercially called Chiralcel OD, Chirapak AD, and Chiralpak AS) are probed with 13C CP/MAS and MAS solid-state...
Gender and the Emotional Experience of Relationship Conflict: The Differential Effectiveness of Avoidant Conflict Management

Conflict research has shown that managing relationship conflict via avoidance is beneficial for team performance, but it is unclear whether avoidant conflict management benefits individuals on an affective level. Drawing on theories of gender roles, we proposed that gender is an important factor that influences whether avoidant conflict management mitigates the negative affective effects of relationship conflict. In a field study of a healthcare organization, we found that relationship conflict resulted in negative emotions, which, in turn, were positively associated with emotional exhaustion two months later. Avoidant conflict management attenuated the relationship between negative emotions engendered by relationship conflict and emotional exhaustion, but this effect depended on gender. Among men, the extent to which they used an avoidant conflict management style mitigated the association between negative emotions and emotional exhaustion, whereas among women, avoidant conflict management did not attenuate this relationship. Findings are discussed in terms of theoretical and practical implications.
Lattice Dynamics of bcc Zirconium

We have studied the lattice dynamics of bcc Zr at 1400 K. We find that (a) the [111] longitudinal branch plunges rapidly to low frequencies in the vicinity of $q=\frac{2}{3}[111]$ indicating a nautral inclination for this metal to undergo a structural transformation to the $\ensuremath{\omega}$ phase, (b) the [110] longitudinal branch is anomalous at the zone boundary, and (c) the condition of elastic isotropy is satisfied to within experimental error. Temperature-dependent elastic peaks were observed in the vicinity of the reciprocal lattice points of the $\ensuremath{\omega}$ phase.
Theoretically and Practically Speaking, What Is Needed in Diversity and Equity in Science Teaching and Learning?.

This article discusses how issues of diversity and equity are addressed in the preparation of science teachers who are charged with teaching diverse students in schools. Highlighting examples from my own teaching and research and other studies in education, I frame this article in terms of a broad application of theory in science teacher preparation to classroom practices in order to address science achievement and equity for diverse students. I also discuss the relevance of my argument for in-service professional development.
Long-Term Aerosol Climate Data Record Derived from Operational AVHRR Satellite Observations

Aerosol optical thickness (AOT) was retrieved using the Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) PATMOS-x Level-2b gridded radiances and the two-channel algorithm of the National Climatic Data Center (NCDC). The primary retrieval product is AOT at 0.63 μm channel. AOT is also retrieved at 0.83 μm or 1.61 μm channel for consistent check. The retrieval was made during day time, under clear sky and snow-free conditions, and over the global oceans. The spatial resolution is degree grid and the temporal resolution is both daily and monthly. The resultant AVHRR AOT climate data record (CDR) spans from August 1981 to December 2009 and provides the longest aerosol CDR currently available from operational satellites. This dataset is useful in studying aerosol climate forcing, monitoring long-term aerosol trends, and evaluating global air pollution and aerosol transport models over the global ocean.
Effects of capillarity and coherency on δ' (Al3Li) precipitation in dilute AlLi alloys at low undercoolings

Abstract The influence of capillarity and coherency on the δ' (Al 3 Li) solvus line in dilute AlLi alloys are described. Capillarity effects are small but detectable in very dilute alloys (~ 8 at.% Li) at temperatures near the solvus line. The effect of coherency strain on the position of the solvus line is calculated to be extremely small and was not measurable experimentally. However, evidence for coherency effects on δ' stability are observed when particle sizes are very small. The heterogeneous precipitate distributions observed on aging a 7.9 at.% Li alloy at small undercoolings are interpreted in terms of a combination of excess vacancy effects on particle growth at low temperature and capillarity effects on particle stability at elevated temperatures. This interpretation contrasts with earlier reports of a coherent δ' solvus in dilute AlLi alloys.
Teachers and Coaches as Leaders Demonstrating Character and Competence

(2010). Teachers and Coaches as Leaders Demonstrating Character and Competence. Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance: Vol. 81, No. 8, pp. 49-52.
String representation for a field theory with internal symmetry

It is possible to represent certain quantum field theories as theories of interacting strings when both are defined on a suitable null-plane lattice. This representation is discussed for scalar field theories with internal degrees of freedom and quartic self-couplings. The internal-symmetry structure of the lattice string is that of an appropriate two-dimensional statistical-mechanical vertex model. The internal degrees of freedom are frozen out in the continuum limit (confinement) unless the vertex model is critical. The simplest internal symmetry, U(1), corresponds to Pauling's model of two-dimensional ice, which is critical. We compute the excitation energies of the internal degrees of freedom of the $F$ model, a generalization of the ice model. The $F$ model is characterized by a parameter $\ensuremath{\Delta}l1$, and ice corresponds to $\ensuremath{\Delta}=\frac{1}{2}$. It is critical for $\ensuremath{-}1l\ensuremath{\Delta}l1$. For $\ensuremath{\Delta}l\ensuremath{-}1$ charged states have infinite energy in the continuum limit. For $\ensuremath{-}1l\ensuremath{\Delta}l1$ the spectrum of long-wavelength excitations is that of a free one-dimensional semiperiodic boson field defined on a finite space. When the space is a ring there is a conserved topological charge as well as ordinary charge. The effect of these excitations on the resulting dual model is to contribute one degree of freedom reducing the critical dimension of space-time by 1.
Vertebral column resection in children with neuromuscular spine deformity.

Study design Retrospective analysis. Objective To determine, in pediatric patients with neuromuscular deformity undergoing vertebral column resection (VCR), the (1) characteristics of the surgery performed; (2) amount of pelvic obliquity restoration, and coronal and sagittal correction achieved; (3) associated blood loss and complications; and (4) extent to which curve type and VCR approach influenced correction, blood loss, and complications. Summary of background data VCR allows for correction of severe, rigid spinal deformity. This technique has not been previously reported in children with neuromuscular disorders. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the records of 23 children with neuromuscular disorders (mean age, 15 years) and spinal deformities (severe scoliosis, 9; global kyphosis or angular kyphosis, 4; kyphoscoliosis, 10) who underwent VCR. The Student t test was used to compare correction differences (statistical significance, P Results A mean 1.5 vertebrae (27 thoracic and 6 lumbar) were resected per patient. Significant corrections were achieved in pelvic obliquity (11°, from 19° ± 13° to 8° ± 7°), in major coronal curve (56°, from 94° ± 36° to 38° ± 20°), and in major sagittal curve (46°, from 86° ± 37° to 40° ± 19°). There was no difference in correction between various curve types. VCR was associated with substantial blood loss (mean, 76% [estimated blood loss per total blood volume]), which correlated with patient weight and operating time. Overall, 6 patients experienced major complications: spinal cord injury, pleural effusion requiring chest tube insertion, pneumonia, pancreatitis, deep wound infection, and prominent implant requiring revision surgery. There were no deaths or permanent neurological injuries. Conclusion VCR achieved significant pelvic obliquity restoration and coronal and sagittal correction in children with neuromuscular disorders and severe, rigid spinal deformity. However, this challenging procedure involves the potential for major complications.
Effect of LY293111 in combination with gemcitabine in colonic cancer

New adjuvant therapies are needed for the treatment of stage III colon cancer. The essential fatty acids, linoleic and arachidonic acid enhance tumorigenesis through the cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase pathways. Leukotriene B4 (LTB4) is a product of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) which has tumor-promoting effects. The LTB4 receptor antagonist, LY293111 inhibited tumor growth and induced apoptosis in vitro. The effectiveness of LY293111, alone and in combination with gemcitabine was investigated in a heterotopic xenograft model in athymic mice using HT29 and LoVo human colonic cancer cells. The combined therapy markedly inhibited tumor growth and could warrant consideration as a new therapeutic option.
Constrained nonparametric estimation of the mean and the CDF using ranked-set sampling with a covariate

Ranked-set sampling (RSS) and judgment post-stratification (JPS) are related schemes in which more efficient statistical inference is obtained by creating a stratification based on ranking information. The rankings may be completely subjective, or they may be based on values of a covariate. Recent work has shown that regardless of how the rankings are done, the in-stratum cumulative distribution functions (CDFs) must satisfy certain constraints, and we show here that if the rankings are done according to a covariate, then tighter constraints must hold. We also show that under a mild stochastic ordering assumption, still tighter constraints must hold. Taking advantage of these new constraints leads to improved small-sample estimates of the in-stratum CDFs in all RSS and JPS settings. For JPS, the new constraints also lead to improved estimates of the overall CDF and the population mean.
Coherent control of non-Markovian photon-resonator dynamics

We study the unitary time evolution of photons interacting with a dielectric resonator using coherent control pulses. We show that non-Markovianity of transient photon dynamics in the resonator subsystem may be controlled to within a photon-resonator transit time. In general, appropriate use of coherent pulses and choice of spatial subregion may be used to create and control a wide range of non-Markovian transient dynamics in photon-resonator systems.
Reaction of C60 and C70 with ozone at different temperatures

The reactions of C60 and C70, dissolved in toluene, with ozone at 100, 23.5, 0. - 16, and - 78°C are reported. Both fullerenes are transformed swiftly at all of these temperatures. Both fullerenes form monoxides, dioxides and possibly higher oxides. The ratio of the rate parameters for the transformations of the two fullerenes change only slightly in the above temperature range. C60, however, is transformed about 40% faster than C70. The maximum yields of C60O, C60O2 and C70O increase at higher temperature.
Service use at the end-of-life in Medicare advantage versus traditional Medicare.

Background:Relative to traditional fee-for-service Medicare, managed care plans caring for Medicare beneficiaries may be better positioned to promote recommended services and discourage burdensome procedures with little clinical value at the end of life.Objective:To compare end-of-life service use f
Promiscuous Partitioning of a Covalent Intermediate Common in the Pentein Superfamily

Many enzymes in the pentein superfamily use a transient covalent intermediate in their catalytic mechanisms. Here we trap and determine the structure of a stable covalent adduct that mimics this intermediate using a mutant dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase and an alternative substrate. The interactions observed between the enzyme and trapped adduct suggest an altered angle of attack between the nucleophiles of the first and second half-reactions of normal catalysis. The stable covalent adduct is also capable of further reaction. Addition of imidazole rescues the original hydrolytic activity. Notably, addition of other amines instead yields substituted arginine products, which arise from partitioning of the intermediate into the evolutionarily related amidinotransferase reaction pathway. The enzyme provides both selectivity and catalysis for the amidinotransferase reaction, underscoring commonalities among the reaction pathways in this mechanistically diverse enzyme superfamily. The promiscuous partitioning of this intermediate may also help to illuminate the evolutionary history of these enzymes.
Computer aided design of a control system for a hovercraft

The JEFF(B) is hovercraft air cushion vehicle that was designed to be an amphibious assault vehicle for the Navy. It proved difficult to handle during engineering trials due to the number of controls that the pilot had to manipulate and the fact that instabilities were encountered during turns. To correct the operational difficulties, an Integrated Control System was designed for the JEFF(B) hovercraft. Utilizing a computer aided design approach, optimal nonlinear and linear controls were developed for the high speed turn, low speed turn and translation modes. The JEFF(B) turn rate and translation performance were maximized, and the hovercraft was stabilized over the entire operating regime. The original four cockpit controls were reduced to two (independently commanded turn rate and velocity). Nonlinear simulation results and actual sea tests demonstrated dramatic improvements in handling qualities with the Integrated Control System.
Timing of eclogite-facies metamorphism of the Chuacús complex, Central Guatemala: Record of Late Cretaceous continental subduction of North America's sialic basement

article i nfo A Late Cretaceous collision of the southernmost portion of the North American continental margin with an undetermined southern block was first established based on the sedimentation history of the plate's supracrustal cover, which is overthrust by harzburgite-dominated nappes of the Guatemala Suture Complex. The collision is also well registered in the metamorphic evolution of continental eclogites of the Chuacus complex, a geologic unit that represents Mesoproterozoic-Triassic sialic basement of North America at the boundary with the Caribbean plate. Garnet-clinopyroxene-phengite thermobarometry of eclogites hosted in Chuacus gneisses indicates near ultra-high-pressure conditions to ~700 °C and ~2.1-2.4 GPa. SHRIMP-RG U-Pb dating of eclogite metamorphic zircon yielded a 75.5±2 Ma age (95% confidence level). Chondrite- normalized rare-earth element patterns of zircon lack Eu anomalies and show depletions in heavy rare earths, consistent with zircon growing in a plagioclase-free, garnet-rich, eclogite-facies assemblage. Additionally, a Sm-Nd clinopyroxene-two garnet-whole rock isochron from an eclogite band yielded a less precise but consistent age of 77±13 Ma. The above features imply subduction to >60 km depth of at least a portion of the North American sialic basement during Late Cretaceous collision. The Chuacus complex was overprinted by an amphibolite-facies event. For instance, mafic high-pressure paragneiss contains symplectite, resorbed garnet, and amphibole+plagioclase poikiloblasts. Zircon rims from the paragneiss sample show rare-earth patterns consistent with plagioclase growth and garnet breakdown. Their74.5±3.5 MaSHRIMP-RGU-Pbage isthereforeinterpretedasthetimeofretrogression,whichisconsistent with previously published results. Within error, the ages of the eclogite-facies event and the amphibolite-facies retrogression are equivalent. Thus exhumation of the Chuacus slab from mantle to mid-crustal depth was quick, taking few million years. During exhumation, partial melting of Chuacus gneisses generated ubiquitous pegmatites. One of the pegmatites intruded the North Motagua melange, which is a serpentinite-rich subduction complex of the Guatemala Suture Complex containing Early Cretaceous oceanic eclogites. U-Pb, Rb-Sr, and K-Ar ages of the pegmatite range ~76-66 Ma. Thus initial juxtaposition of continental and oceanic high-pressure belts of the Guatemala Suture Complex predates Tertiary-present strike-slip faulting between the North-American and Caribbean plates.
Acceso y poder discursivo en las noticias de la televisión chilena

El presente articulo aborda, desde la perspectiva del Analisis Critico del Discurso (ACD), la relacion entre acceso, discurso y poder en un corpus de noticias de la television chilena. El objetivo es establecer que papel juega el lenguaje empleado por los periodistas para determinar la manera en que las fuentes informativas acceden a los noticiarios y como son representadas. Para esos efectos, se analizo comparativamente una misma noticia que fue difundida por los principales canales de television en noviembre de 2000.
Test Case Prioritization Using Relevant Slices

Software testing and retesting occurs continuously during the software development lifecycle to detect errors as early as possible. The sizes of test suites grow as software evolves. Due to resource constraints, it is important to prioritize the execution of test cases so as to increase chances of early detection of faults. Prior techniques for test case prioritization are based on the total number of coverage requirements exercised by the test cases. In this paper, we present a new approach to prioritize test cases based on the coverage requirements present in the relevant slices of the outputs of test cases. We present experimental results comparing the effectiveness of our prioritization approach with that of existing techniques that only account for total requirement coverage, in terms of ability to achieve high rate of fault detection. Our results present interesting insights into the effectiveness of using relevant slices for test case prioritization.
Ecstasy use and its association with sexual behaviors among drug users in New York City.

In the past two decades, recreational use of ecstasy has become a growing concern in the United States, although most studies assessing ecstasy use have focused on white, middle-class adolescents who use ecstasy during raves and in clubs. We assessed the prevalence of recent ecstasy use among predominantly minority heroin, cocaine, and crack users in New York City and the association between ecstasy and sexual risk above and beyond that of the other drugs. Between 2002 and 2004, injection and non-injection heroin, crack and cocaine users (N = 534) completed a risk behavior questionnaire that included items on ecstasy use. Logistic regression was used to investigate the relation between current ecstasy use and sexual behaviors. Of 534 illicit drug users, 69.7% were aged 25 years or older, 65.2% were Hispanic, 27.9% Black and 77.4% male; 36.7% were injectors. 17.2% of respondents reported recent (last six months) ecstasy use. In a multivariable logistic regression model, current ecstasy use was associated both with initiating sex before age 14 (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.51) and having two or more partners in the past two months (AOR = 1.86) after adjusting for age at study entry, current cocaine and marijuana use and being an injection drug user. This study suggests that ecstasy use may be more prevalent among urban drug users. Ecstasy use in urban settings, beyond clubs and raves, should continue to be monitored.
Glycemic extremes in youth with T1DM: The structural and functional integrity of the developing brain

Hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia are rare occurrences in normal individuals, but they occur commonly in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) due to a dysfunction of peripheral glucose-insulin-glucagon responses and non-physiologic doses of exogenous insulin, which imperfectly mimic normal physiology. These extremes can occur more frequently in children and adolescents, due to events leading to the diagnosis of T1DM (prolonged untreated hyperglycemia, diabetic ketoacidosis), and to behavioral factors interfering with optimal treatment. Given that these events are occurring at a time of dynamic changes in brain structure and metabolic demand, it has been hypothesized that glycemic extremes could alter normal brain developmental trajectories depending on the age and severity at which these extremes are experienced. Researchers have attempted to determine the impact of diabetes, hypoglycemia, and hyperglycemia on brain structure and function in vivo using various neuroimaging techniques although few studies have examined these questions in children and youth with T1DM within a neurodevelopmental context. In this article, we review the current neuroimaging techniques available, describe the limited data in youth that address whether exposure to glycemic extremes in T1DM has any long-lasting consequences on the brain and its functions within a developmental perspective, and provide commentary on future directions for this field.
Refocusing the War on Cancer: The Critical Role of Personalized Treatment

Despite very substantial investment and effort over the past 30 years, the overall survival rate of cancer patients has changed little. We propose that without a truly robust mechanism for selecting the right treatment for the right patient at the right time—the central concepts of personalized medicine—we will continue to see only incremental improvements and have little hope for substantial survival gains. We suggest that it is now imperative that future clinical trials be designed with a plan to incorporate biomarker development.
Biochemical evidence that the pduS gene encodes a bifunctional cobalamin reductase.

Salmonella enterica degrades 1,2-propanediol (1,2-PD) by a pathway that requires coenzyme B12 (adenosylcobalamin; AdoCbl). The genes specifically involved in 1,2-PD utilization (pdu) are found in a large contiguous cluster, the pdu locus. Earlier studies have indicated that this locus includes genes for the conversion of vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin; CNCbl) to AdoCbl and that the pduO gene encodes an ATP : cob(I)alamin adenosyltransferase which catalyses the terminal step of this process. Here, in vitro evidence is presented that the pduS gene encodes a bifunctional cobalamin reductase that catalyses two reductive steps needed for the conversion of CNCbl into AdoCbl. The PduS enzyme was produced in high levels in Escherichia coli. Enzyme assays showed that cell extracts from the PduS expression strain reduced cob(III)alamin (hydroxycobalamin) to cob(II)alamin at a rate of 91 nmol min−1 mg−1 and cob(II)alamin to cob(I)alamin at a rate of 7·8 nmol min−1 mg−1. In contrast, control extracts had only 9·9 nmol min−1 mg−1 cob(III)alamin reductase activity and no detectable cob(II)alamin reductase activity. Thus, these results indicated that the PduS enzyme is a bifunctional cobalamin reductase. Enzyme assays also showed that the PduS enzyme reduced cob(II)alamin to cob(I)alamin for conversion into AdoCbl by purified PduO adenosyltransferase. Moreover, studies in which iodoacetate was used as a chemical trap for cob(I)alamin indicated that the PduS and PduO enzymes physically interact and that cob(I)alamin is sequestered during the conversion of cob(II)alamin to AdoCbl by these two enzymes. This is likely to be important physiologically, since cob(I)alamin is extremely reactive and would need to be protected from unproductive by-reactions. Lastly, bioinformatic analyses showed that the PduS enzyme is unrelated in amino acid sequence to enzymes of known function currently present in GenBank. Hence, results indicate that the PduS enzyme represents a new class of cobalamin reductase.
Molecular bioengineering of biomaterials in the 1990s and beyond: a growing liaison of polymers with molecular biology.

An important trend in biomaterials research and development is the synthesis of polymers that combine capabilities of biologic recognition (biomimetic) with special physicochemical properties of the synthetic polymer system. Another important trend in such "molecular bioengineering" is to develop, perhaps via computer-aided molecular design, new artificial biomimetic systems by exact placement of functional groups on rigid polymer backbones, cross-linked structures, or macromolecular assemblies. In this way, biocatalytic functioning or biorecognition similar to enzymes and antibodies can be achieved without the inherent instability often encountered with the native biomolecules or assemblies. Perhaps the most exciting trend in biomaterials research and development is the availability of new biomolecules, e.g., via protein engineering and of hardy cells with specific biofunctions and bioresponses that can be tailored to specific medical or biotechnological needs. The wide variety of ways that such biomolecules and cells can be combined with polymeric biomaterials provides tremendously exciting opportunities for the biomaterials scientists and engineers. In addition to these synthetic approaches, new and exciting analytical tools, such as the scanning tunneling microscope and the atomic force microscope, are permitting study on a molecular scale of individual and small clusters of proteins and other biomolecular assemblies on surfaces. Cell attachments and spreading may also be visualized at various depths within the cell using the confocal laser microscope. Such analytical techniques can lead to important new knowledge about biologic interactions with biomaterials and, therefore, to development of even more biocompatible implants and devices. This paper overviews the present state of polymeric biomaterials and highlights the important and exciting opportunities generated by the liaison of these materials with molecular biology.
Writing the Vacuum: Richard Nixon as Literary Figure

Abstract The surest bet in the 1996 Republican primary was Richard Nixon. The odds were in his favor, his legacy alive and well in a trio of candidates: former Nixon White House aide Lamar Alexander, former Nixon speechwriter Pat Buchanan, and the eventual nominee himself, former Nixon Senator-of-choice Robert Dole. Even with protege Pete Wilson having dropped out of the race early on, Nixon was a tangible presence in the 1996 Republican scene. The irony is hard to miss: Nixon is more relevant posthumously than he was during the last two decades of his life. Following the indignity of Watergate, he began a campaign to re-create his own persona through interviews and books (Leaders, In the Arena, Seize the Moment), but the process was not complete until his death.
Constraint Effects on Cohesive Failures in Low-k Dielectric Thin Films

One of the most common forms of cohesive failure observed in brittle thin films subjected to a tensile residual stress is channel cracking, a fracture mode in which through-film cracks propagate in the film. The crack growth rate depends on intrinsic film properties, residual stress, the presence of reactive species in the environment, and the precise film stack. In this paper, we investigate the effect of various buffer layers sandwiched between a brittle carbon-doped-silicate (CDS) film and a silicon substrate on channel cracking of the CDS film. The results show that channel cracking is enhanced if the buffer layer is more compliant than the silicon substrate. Crack velocity increases with increasing buffer layer thickness and decreasing buffer layer stiffness. This is caused by a reduction of the constraint imposed by the substrate on the film and a commensurate increase in energy release rate. The degree of constraint is characterized experimentally as a function of buffer layer thickness and stiffness, and compared to the results of a simple shear lag model that was proposed previously.
Vertical channel field-controlled thyristors with high gain and fast switching speeds

A new, planar, surface-grid, field-controlled thyristor (FCT) structure is described. The structure is fabricated by using orientation-dependent (preferential) etching and selective vapor epitaxial growth to obtain vertical grid walls. The resulting high channel-length-to-width aspect ratio produces devices with high blocking gains and fast gate turnoff speeds. Devices have been fabricated with the capability of blocking more than 1000 V with an applied grid bias of 32 V, and simultaneously exhibiting a low forward voltage drop in the on-state. These surface-grid devices exhibit gate turnoff capability with turnoff times of less than 500 ns at a rated cathode-anode current of 1 A.
The Effect of High-Tensile Electric Fence Designs on Big-Game and Livestock Movements

Abstract We used infrared-activated video cameras and direct observation to evaluate the effects of 2-wire high-tensile electric fence (2-WF), 3-wire high-tensile electric fence (3-WF), and 4-wire high-tensile electric fence (4-WF) designs on elk (Cervus elaphus), mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus), and pronghorn (Antilocapra americana) movements. In addition, high-tensile electric fences (HTEF) were tested for their effectiveness on domestic cattle (Bos taurus; 2-WF and 3-WF) and bison (Bison bison; 3-WF and 4-WF). Shock energy on the test fences ranged from 0.5–4.5 J. The wildlife species we studied were physically capable of crossing all of the fence designs. However, difficulty in crossing the fences varied between species and designs. The elk and mule deer observed were more successful (100%) at crossing the 2-WF than pronghorn (51%). Mule deer (95%) and pronghorn (91%) were more successful at crossing 4-WF than elk (59%). The majority of elk (79%), mule deer (93%), and pronghorn (97%) successfully cros...
Self-appraised social problem solving abilities, emotional reactions and actual problem solving performance.

Self-report measures of social problem solving abilities have yet to be associated with objective problem solving performance in any consistent manner. In the present study, we investigated the relation of social problem solving abilities — as measured by the Social Problem Solving Skills Inventory — Revised (SPSI-R [Maydeu-Olivares, A. & D’Zurilla, T. J. (1996). A factor analytic study of the Social Problem Solving Inventory: an integration of theory and data. Cognitive Therapy and Research, 20, 115‐133]) — to performance on a structured problem solving task. Unlike previous studies, we examined the relation of problem solving skills to performance curves observed in repeated trials, while controlling for aAective reactions to each trial. Using hierarchical modeling techniques, a negative problem orientation was significantly predictive of performance and this eAect was not mediated by negative aAectivity. Results are discussed as they pertain to contemporary models of social
Mechanistic Studies of CVD Metallization Processes: Reactions of Rhodium and Platinum β-Diketonate Complexes on Copper Surfaces

The hexafluoroacetylacetonate complexes Rh(hfac)(C2H4)2 and Pt(hfac)2 are known to serve as chemical vapor deposition precursors to Rh and Pt thin films. In the absence of a reducing carrier gas, the depositions are surface-selective and occur preferentially on copper, but under these conditions, the metallization processes are unexpectedly inefficient relative to the rapid deposition of Pd on Cu seen for the palladium analogue Pd(hfac)2. Mechanistic studies of the reactions of Rh(hfac)(C 2H4)2 and Pt(hfac)2 on copper surfaces under ultrahigh vacuum conditions have now been performed in order to elucidate the factors responsible for the differences among these surface-selective metallization processes. The studies demonstrate that adsorption of the rhodium complex Rh(hfac)(C2H4)2 on copper surfaces is accompanied by the loss of the coordinated ethylene groups, even at 100 K. At these low temperatures, the adsorbed Rh(hfac) fragments are oriented in several ways with respect to the surface. Heating the substrate above 150 K causes the hfac ligands to realign to a perpendicular orientation relative to the surface. The platinum precursor Pt(hfac) 2 adsorbs molecularly at 100 K with the molecular planes of the hfac ligands oriented parallel to the copper surface. Heating the substrate to temperatures above 150 K again results in a realignment of the hfac ligands to a perpendicular orientation. This reorientation is accompanied by a partial reduction of the Pt centers (as judged from shifts seen in X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy core level data), a result suggesting that the hfac ligands begin to dissociate from the platinum centers near 150 K. At temperatures above 220 K, the transfer of the hfac ligands from both complexes to the copper surface is complete, as signaled by the reduction of the metal centers to the zero-valent state. The copper-bound hfac ligands are further transformed upon heating, either reacting with copper surface atoms to yield Cu(hfac)2 (which desorbs at temperatures above 250 K) or decomposing (with fragments desorbing above 350 K). The presence of platinum on the copper surface promotes the former reaction as judged by the appearance of a new reaction-limited desorption process for Cu(hfac) 2. The presence of rhodium on the copper surface does not promote the formation of Cu(hfac)2, although autocatalysis is noted in the steady-state reactive scattering data. The inability of the Rh and Pt precursors to engage in a sustained transmetalation reaction with the copper surface is attributed to the slow interdiffusion of copper through the Rh/Cu and Pt/Cu alloys that are produced in the near-surface region.
Reframing of Martyrdom and Jihad and the Socialization of Suicide Terrorists

The quest for personal significance as a unifying concept explaining the motivation for terrorists who are led to commit suicide terrorism is very useful and clarifying. This commentary is designed to augment the central argument of this paper by addressing how, in the spectrum of terrorist groups which employ suicide terrorism as a principal tactic, suicide terrorism becomes framed so as to be seen as fulfilling this motivation for the terrorists. This commentary explores the concept of martyrdom within the Islamic tradition, scripture, and literature, with some background on non-Muslim, secular, nationalist groups' use of martyrdom as well. The evolution of the concept of jihad and the role of key Muslim theoreticians in transforming the concept so that the lesser jihad, the jihad of the sword, came to be seen as obligatory to defend Islam, which was under attack, is emphasized. This in turn led to the emphasis on the exceptional nature of the threat for Islam which then led radical theologians to justify what was reframed as acts of martyrdom to counter the threat (Ali & Post, 2008). In considering the utilization of this tactic by Islamist extremists, it is impor tant to emphasize that the Koran strictly prohibits suicide. Among the many suras prohibiting suicide are the following:
Measuring Presidential Success in Congress: Alternative Approaches

There are numerous obstacles to studying presidential-congressional relations. One of the most difficult to overcome is measuring presidential success. This article addresses the theoretical significance of the choice of measures, and develops and analyzes four alternative indices of presidential support in Congress. It concludes that usually it is best to employ individual-level measures of presidential support and that, although different measures produce similar results, it is useful to rely on both broad and exclusive measures in one's research.
Comparison of radioisotope methods and a non-radioisotope method to measure platelet survival in the baboon.

Abstract Background: The in vivo survival of autologous fresh and preserved platelets can be measured using 51-Cr and 111-In-oxine radioisotope procedures and by a non-radioisotope procedure using biotin-X-N-hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) with detection in the flow cytometer using fluorescent streptavidin. This study was done to assess the specificity of the radioisotopes 51-Cr and 111-In-oxine and non-radioactive biotin-X-NHS to label platelets to measure their in vivo recovery and lifespan. Study design and methods: In the study reported here, aliquots of autologous platelets from the same baboon were labeled with 51-Cr, 111-In oxine and biotin-X-NHS to measure platelet survival. Both cell-associated and platelet-associated 51-Cr and 111-In oxine radioactivity were assessed to measure the in vivo recovery and lifespan of platelets. Blood volume was measured using the 125I albumin plasma volume and the total body hematocrit. Results: In vivo recovery values measured during the 1–3h post-infusion period and during the 8day post-infusion period showed significant differences between the 51-Cr-labeled and the 111-In-oxine labeled platelets. In the 51-Cr-labeled platelets, the cell-associated radioactivity was about 50% higher than the platelet-associated radioactivity. In the 111-In-oxine labeled platelets, the cell-associated radioactivity was about 10% higher than the platelet-associated radioactivity. Similar in vivo recovery values were observed in the biotin-X-NHS labeled platelets and the 111-In-oxine labeled platelets assessed from the cell-associated 111-In-radioactivity. Conclusion: The radioisotope 51-Cr and 111-In are non-specific labels for platelets, whereas biotin-X-NHS is a specific label for platelets identified in the flow cytometer with fluorescent streptavidin. The in vivo recovery values of autologous baboon platelets were similar when assessed from the cell-associated 111-In-oxine radioactivity and biotin-X-NHS labeled platelets.
Using virtual reality to augment perception, enhance sensorimotor adaptation, and change our minds.

Technological advances that involve human sensorimotor processes can have both intended and unintended effects on the central nervous system (CNS). This mini-review focuses on the use of virtual environments (VE) to augment brain functions by enhancing perception, eliciting automatic motor behavior, and inducing sensorimotor adaptation. VE technology is becoming increasingly prevalent in medical rehabilitation, training simulators, gaming, and entertainment. Although these VE applications have often been shown to optimize outcomes, whether it be to speed recovery, reduce training time, or enhance immersion and enjoyment, there are inherent drawbacks to environments that can potentially change sensorimotor calibration. Across numerous VE studies over the years, we have investigated the effects of combining visual and physical motion on perception, motor control, and adaptation. Recent results from our research involving exposure to dynamic passive motion within a visually-depicted VE reveal that short-term exposure to augmented sensorimotor discordance can result in systematic aftereffects that last beyond the exposure period. Whether these adaptations are advantageous or not, remains to be seen. Benefits as well as risks of using VE-driven sensorimotor stimulation to enhance brain processes will be discussed.
Holocene changes in eastern tropical Pacific climate inferred from a Galápagos lake sediment record

Abstract Paleoclimate records from the tropical Pacific suggest the early to mid-Holocene was a period of reduced El Nino/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) variability, with a transition to modern, increased ENSO frequency occurring some time in the last few thousand years. However, the nature and timing of this shift remains uncertain due to the discontinuous nature and/or coarse resolution of many ENSO proxies, as well as a lack of agreement between previously published records. A new, continuous, climate record from El Junco Crater Lake in the Galapagos Islands reveals several abrupt changes in lake level and precipitation through the Holocene. Hydroclimatic model simulations suggest that El Junco lake level responds sensitively to increases in precipitation associated with El Nino events, rising during wet El Nino events and falling during the intervening dry periods. Grain size data from El Junco sediment cores indicate past lake level variability, likely associated with changing seasonal precipitation and ENSO frequency. The grain size data suggest increased precipitation intensity prior to 9000±120 cal years BP, and after 4200±130 cal years BP, as well as a two-step increase in precipitation at 3200±160 and 2000±100 cal years BP. Maximum Holocene precipitation and inferred ENSO variability occurred between 2000±100 and 1500±70 cal years BP, during the same period that six other independent proxy records suggest higher ENSO frequency and longer, stronger El Nino events. Decreasing sediment carbon/nitrogen (C/N) ratios in El Junco sediments indicate rising lake levels from the early Holocene to present, corroborating the grain size data. The inferred increase in precipitation at 4200±130 cal years BP and at 2000±100 cal years BP coincides with decreasing Southwest Asian and East Asian Monsoon intensity, suggesting tropical Pacific climate and the Asian monsoon were interconnected systems at centennial to millennial timescales during the Holocene. A weakening trend in the Asian monsoon and the trend toward wetter conditions at El Junco also coincide with a trend toward cooler and drier conditions inferred from Cariaco Basin sediment proxies from the mid-Holocene to present, suggesting the migration of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) likely influenced hydrological changes in both the eastern tropical Pacific and the Asian Monsoon region during the Holocene.
Physical health indicators among lesbian, gay, and bisexual U.S. veterans

Abstract Purpose To provide information about lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) veterans' health status, diagnoses, and health screening behaviors compared with heterosexual veterans. Methods Data are from 10 states' 2010 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System surveys that contained sexual orientation data for veterans (n = 11,665). χ2 tests and multiple logistic regression were used to examine outcomes among LGB and heterosexual veterans. Results More LGB than heterosexual veterans reported current smoking, not seeking medical care owing to cost, and activity limitations. Compared with heterosexual veterans, LGB veterans had greater odds of ever having an human immunodeficiency virus test (odds ratio [OR], 5.42; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.28–8.96) but lower odds of diabetes diagnosis (OR, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.34–0.89). Conclusions Findings from this sample suggest patterns of health behaviors and outcomes among LGB veterans that are both unique from and similar to results from general samples of LGB persons. With the formal end of the “Don't Ask, Don't Tell” policy that discriminated against LGB people in the military, institutions such as the Department of Veterans Affairs are likely to see an increase in its current population of LGB veterans. The Department of Veterans Affairs stands in a unique place to meet the health equity needs of this minority population.
Introductory comments for the scientific ethics theme.

In this letter, the three Guest Editors for JMBE's first-ever themed section introduce the topic of scientific ethics and decribe the organization of essays within the special section.