cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nanotopography-mediated Reverse Uptake for siRNA Delivery into Neural Stem Cells to Enhance Neuronal Differentiation

RNA interference (RNAi) for controlling gene expression levels using siRNA or miRNA is emerging as an important tool in stem cell biology. However, the conventional methods used to deliver siRNA into stem cells result in significant cytotoxicity and undesirable side-effects. To this end, we have developed a nanotopography-mediated reverse uptake (NanoRU) delivery platform to demonstrate a simple and efficient technique for delivering siRNA into neural stem cells (NSCs). NanoRU consists of a self-assembled silica nanoparticle monolayer coated with extracellular matrix proteins and the desired siRNA. We use this technique to efficiently deliver siRNA against the transcription factor SOX9, which acts as a switch between neuronal and glial fate of NSCs. The knockdown of SOX9 enhanced the neuronal differentiation and decreased the glial differentiation of the NSCs. Our NanoRU platform demonstrates a novel application and the importance of nanotopography-mediated siRNA delivery into stem cells as an effective method for genetic manipulation.
Spatial variation of throughfall volume in an old-growth tropical wet forest, Costa Rica

Throughfall volume and interception of bulk precipitation events were measured during individual rain events of differing magnitudes in a primary wet tropical forest at La Selva Biological Station, Costa Rica. The relationship between canopy structure and throughfall were examined to identify key sources of spatial variation. Geostatistical analyses were also used to examine the spatial variation in throughfall, spatial autocorrelation and to determine minimum dis- tances for independence of collectors. Throughfall volume was collected from 56 ground-based (funnel-style) collectors. Throughfall was collected for 26 separate precipitation events duringJuly and August 1998. Per cent cover, distance to near- est tree, distance to nearest leaf were also estimated for each collection point. A weak relationship was found with per cent cover (r2 = 0.11). No relationship was found between throughfall and distance to the nearest leaf above the collector. Estimated interception was 1.88 mm (r2 = 0.94) with increased variance as bulk precipitation increased. A range distance of 45 m was estimated from variograms, strongly suggesting that large tree canopies and gaps are the source of much of the spatial variance in throughfall volume. Interception was reduced by 19% if only spatially independent collectors were used.
Lack of preference for flurazepam in normal volunteers.

The reinforcing efficacy of flurazepam (15 and 30 mg) in humans was assessed using an experimental choice procedure. Twelve healthy volunteers were tested in two 3-week choice experiments, in which each dose of the drug was compared to placebo. Subjective effects of the drug (and placebo) were monitored using the Profile of Mood States and a 49-item version of the Addiction Research Center Inventory. The lower dose of flurazepam was chosen equally as often as placebo and produced no significant subjective effects. The higher dose (30 mg) was chosen significantly less often than chance, and produced typical tranquilizer-like effects (e.g., sedation). These results are consistent with previous results using other benzodiazepines such as diazepam and lorazepam, and suggest that the reinforcing efficacy of these drugs in normal volunteers is low.
Nonlinear calculation of a radial mode of oscillation of a hot white dwarf

A linearly unstable first harmonic radial mode of oscillation (period 0.86 s) of a hot white dwarf with a hydrogen envelope is analyzed in the nonlinear regime by application of the Stellingwerf technique to a nonlinear hydrocode. The mass and equilibrium luminosity of the hot white dwarf are 1.3M⊙ and 1.6×1037 erg s−1, respectively. A stable nonlinear mode is found to exist, in which appreciable shock damping occurs at and near the surface—the shock damping being the dominant stabilizing effect. This enhances the possibility that such an object can produce a pulsating X-ray source.
C(2×2) oxygen-induced core-level shifts and surface states of Pd(100)

Surface states induced by the C(2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}2) phase of oxygen on a Pd(100) surface were studied by means of surface core-level-shift (SCLS) spectroscopy and photoelectron angular distributions that were obtained by using forward-scattering spectroscopy. This combination of the two powerful techniques proved to be very useful in that surface and bulk states were observed to have two distinct energies as determined by the SCLS spectroscopy applied to the Pd 3${\mathit{d}}_{5/2}$ and 3${\mathit{d}}_{3/2}$ core levels. Angular distributions of the surface and bulk components of the Pd 3${\mathit{d}}_{5/2}$ core level were studied separately. Photoelectron angular distributions were found to be consistent with the forward-scattering mechanism in which the same Pd atom residing in its lattice site gives raise to two distinct 3${\mathit{d}}_{5/2}$ photoemission peaks separated by 0.55 eV. Forward-scattering results obtained along the 〈001〉 and the 〈011〉 directions also suggest that surface states extend four to five layers into the bulk and they can be characterized by a wave function whose amplitude decays in the direction of the inward normal. Coefficients of the atomic orbitals that represent oxygen-induced surface states were mapped experimentally. Structural and mechanistic implications of the long-range nature of the O-Pd interaction are discussed.
“Mad cow” and the Neighbours: Canada's beef with the US border closure

In May 2003 Canada's Food Inspection Agency announced that a single case of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) had been diagnosed in a native born Canadian cow. In the aftermath of this announcement, the United States closed its border to Canadian beef and live cattle exports. At the time, the United States accounted for nearly all of Canada's live cattle and the majority of its beef exports, so the loss of this market was critical. By September 2003 the border reopened to beef exports from cattle less than 30 months of age, but it would be over two years before cattle under 30 months would be admitted. This article outlines the consequences of the border closure on Canada's cattle industry and considers the obstacles to lessening its dependence upon the US market.
Toxicity of Organophosphorus, Aryl Methylcarbanilate, Methylcarbamate, and Carboxanilide Insecticides Against Lepidopterans Attacking Cotton

Thirteen of 31 aryl phosphonates, phosphonothioates, or phosphonodithioates, applied as conventional sprays, gave at least 50% kill of larvae of the bollworm, Heliothis zea (Boddie), at less than 1 pound per acre. Conventional sprays of Bay 25198 ( O,O -dimethyl O-[p- (methylsulfinyl) phenyl] phosphorothioate), Monsanto CP-40273 ( O-p -nitrophenyl O -propyl methylphosphonothioate), and CP-40294 ( O-p -nitrophenyl O -phenyl methylphosphonothioate (Colep®) killed 50% of larvae of the tobacco budworm, H. virescens (F.), at 0.5 pound per acre; Stauffer N-2599 ( O-p -chlorophenyl O -ethyl ethylphosphonothioate), N-2790 ( O -ethyl S -phenyl ethylphosphonodithioate (Dyfonate®), and N-3727 ( O -methyl S -phenyl methylphosphonodithioate) killed 80% of tobacco budworms at ca. 1 pound per acre. In the laboratory, Monsanto CP-43858 (4′,4″,5-trichloro-2-hydroxy-3-biphcnylcarboxanilide) formulated in cottonseed oil and applied at a rate of 1.0 pound per acre as an ultra low volume (½ gal or less per acre) killed 100% of the larvae of tobacco bud worm.
Performance Parameters Of A Kinestatic Charge Detector

The goal of developing an on-line electronic digital radiographic (EDR) system to replace conventional film-screen radiography (FSR) is important for at least two reasons. First, theoretical arguments show that EDR can have improved diagnostic quality, reduced patient dose and faster image accessibility than FSR. Secondly, the availability of EDR systems will remove the final impediment to the realization of the PACS concept inasmuch as FSR is the only major nonelectronic imaging modality left in the modern radiology department. The Kinestatic Charge Detector (KCD) has properties which make it a candidate for an on-line EDR systems-10. The KCD is a strip detector with high spatial resolution in two dimensions. However, mechanically and electronically, it operates like a one-dimensional detector. Thus, it can effectively scan on the order of 64 to 128 parallel x-ray lines simultaneously but with a 64 to 128-fold reduction in the number of actual detector cells and electronic channels. Moreover, this can be done at quantum detection efficiencies approaching unity. In this paper, theoretical calculations and experimental measurements of the performance parameters of a KCD are presented. Some of the particular parameters discussed include spatial, contrast, and temporal resolution.
Analysis of structural response to large scale nondeterministic variations

Abstract Employing a concatenated re-expansion procedure, this paper develops a formal matrix inversion scheme which can be employed to solve large scale probabilistic stiffness variations. The generality of the formulation is such that a priori convergence and trancation criteria are also available to optimize workload and resource requirements for a given level of user defined accuracy. Due to the manner of formulation, any range of probabilistic variation is possible. This includes the ability to handle arbitrary Riemann integrable probability distribution functions. To demonstrate the scheme, the results of several numerical experiments are presented. These deal with problems possessing wide ranging probabilitity variations.
Myeloid sarcoma. Review of the literature and report of a case

A patient with myelofibrosis and myeloid metaplasia diagnosed 11 years prior to death showed multiple lytic bone lesions with pathologic fractures for 9 years. At autopsy, a sarcomatous tumor composed of bone marrow elements, including megakaryocytes and myeloid precursors, was found in bones, lymph nodes, and liver. Transition of myelofibrotic bone marrow into myeloid sarcoma suggested that myeloid sarcoma is a malignant tumorous form of myelofibrosis and myeloid metaplasia.
Reaction of the hydrido-bridged, group 6 metal carbonyl dimers with organic alkoxides. An apparent beta-hydride elimination reaction pertinent to catalysis

Abstract IR spectroscopic and GC-MS studies have been made of the reaction between the Group 6 metal carbonyl dimers [μ-HM 2 (CO) 10 ] − (where M = Cr and W) and organic alkoxides, R 1 R 2 CHO − , both as the PPN + salts. Where R 1 = R 2 = Ph or Me, the reactions result in the oxidation of the alkoxide to benzophenone and acetone, respectively, as determined by GC-MS. IR spectroscopic studies indicate that the reaction involves cleavage of the hydrido-bridged dimer reactants to give the hydride monomers, [HM(CO) 5 ] − , and an intermediate alkoxo complex, [R 1 R 2 CHOM(CO) 5 ] − . The overall rate of oxidation of a given alkoxide is slower when M = W than when M = Cr. It is proposed that the alkoxo intermediate is responsible for the formation of the ketone products.
Surgical treatment for chronic hypotony and anterior proliferative vitreoretinopathy.

Purpose To determine whether vitreoretinal surgery to release anterior traction in eyes with chronic hypotony and attached posterior retinas increases the intraocular pressure and prevents atrophia bulbi. Methods In this prospective study, we operated on and followed-up postoperatively 17 eyes of 17 consecutive patients with previous vitreoretinal surgeries for retinal detachments and severe proliferative vitreoretinopathy. These eyes had developed chronic hypotony (intraocular pressure ^5 mm Hg for at least one month) and anterior proliferative vitreoretinopathy. Results After a minimum of six months of postoperative follow-up (mean, 10.6 months), mean intraocular pressure had increased significantly after surgery from 1.7 to 7.2 mm Hg (P Conclusions Early surgery to release traction over the anterior retina and uveal tissue in eyes with chronic hypotony and anterior proliferative vitreoretinopathy can increase intraocular pressure and stabilize visual acuity.
Elastic and strength properties of canine long bones.

The mechanical properties of canine long bones have been determined. The mean and standard deviation of the maximum load supported by six fresh canine femurs in 3-point bending was 1366±253 N. In all cases, the bones sustained a considerable amount of plastic deformation before failure. The modulus of elasticity (GN/m2), ultimate tensile stress (MN/m2) and yield stress (MN/m2) were 13·86, 108·3 and 88·3 for six humeral specimens and 13·88, 142·1 and 104·0 for 13 tibial specimens, respectively. The tibial specimens showed a statistically significant higher ultimate strength than the humeral specimens.
Self-Expression and Depressive Symptoms in Late Life:

The purpose of this study was to develop and test a latent-variable model to assess the relationship between self-expression and depressive symptoms in late life. Data from a nationwide survey of older adults (n = 1,013) provided empirical support for the following theoretical linkages embedded in this conceptual framework: (1) Higher levels of educational attainment are associated with greater self-expression, (2) older people who find avenues for self-expression are more likely to develop senses of meaning in life, (3) older adults who find senses of meaning in life are more likely to feel grateful, and (4) elders who feel grateful are less likely to experience symptoms of depression.
PARALLEL PATHWAYS OF CELL CYCLE CONTROL DURING XENOPUS EGG ACTIVATION

Abstract Transit from M phase into interphase in many eukaryotic cells is preceded by an increase in intracellular free calcium ([Ca2+]i), which may act via calcium-dependent enzymes to trigger the M-phase/interphase transition. To test the role of the calcium- and phospholipid-dependent enzyme protein kinase C (PKC) in the M-phase/interphase transition, PKC was activated in M-phase-arrested Xenopus eggs by treatment with the phorbol ester phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate under conditions that prevent a rise in [Ca2+]i and activation of other calcium-dependent enzymes. Under these conditions, several cellular events characteristic of transit into interphase occur: sperm chromatin decondenses, the Golgi and the nuclear envelope reassemble, and endocytosis resumes. These events are also triggered by treatment of eggs with the diacylglycerol 1,2-dioctanoyl-sn-glycerol. Surprisingly, the activity of M-phase-promoting factor (MPF), a universal regulator of M phase, remains high under these conditions. If [Ca2+]i is subsequently raised, MPF activity is rapidly destroyed. Similarly, lysates made from eggs treated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate support sperm chromatin decondensation in vitro and yet retain high MPF activity, measured either as the ability to induce meiotic resumption in oocytes or as histone H1 kinase activity. These effects are not triggered by the 4 alpha-phorbol ester isomer, which does not activate PKC, and are sensitive to the PKC "pseudosubstrate" peptide. The results suggest that two, parallel signals are generated by the rise in [Ca2+]i both of which contribute to cell cycle regulation. One pathway inactivates MPF; the other pathway activates PKC.
Titanium Oxide Nanoparticles Precipitated from Low‐Temperature Aqueous Solutions: III. Thin Film Properties

In our previous reports (Part I and II), we have identified precursor “supersaturation” as a key parameter to control the precipitation behavior of titania nanoparticles in a temperature-driven hydrolysis process from the chemical bath of soluble titanium salt. Through this protocol, a methodology was developed to grow titania films with controlled microstructures and phases. In this study, we deposited titania films containing anatase or rutile as a dominant phase along with microstructures of various film densities, which were characterized for their dielectric, optical, photoelectrochemical, and mechanical properties. Specific microstructures and the constituting phases were responsible for a wide variation of such properties of titania thin films. This study aims to provide the systematic explanation for evolution of the phases as a function of the degree of supersaturation, along with the discussion of their effects on the aforementioned engineering properties.
Contesting corporate control: shareholder voting

In this study we examine the outcome of shareholder proposals and focus on the factors leading to a majority vote. Our findings include: 1) the issues of a proposal play a significant role in determining whether or not the proposal achieves majority shareholder support; 2) ownership structure plays a significant role in the occurrence of a majority vote proposal; 3) most importantly, Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS) recommendations can significantly influence how shareholders vote. When a shareholder proposal which is opposed by management, receives a positive ISS recommendation, this proposal is far more likely to achieve majority shareholder support.
Value of pharmacist medication interviews on optimizing the electronic medication reconciliation process.

Purpose: Few studies have explored the impact of using different methods for obtaining accurate medication histories on medication safety. This study was conducted to compare the accuracy and clinical impact of pharmacist medication histories obtained by electronic medical record review (EMRR) alone with those obtained by direct interviews combined with EMRR. Method: This 18-week prospective study included patients who were admitted to the Inpatient Medicine Service at the study institution and who had a pharmacist-conducted medication reconciliation EMRR within 48 hours of hospital admission. A chart review was performed to collect data to determine whether differences existed in the number of discrepancies, recommendations, and medication errors between the EMRR alone group compared to the EMRR combined with the patient interview group. Results: Five hundred thirteen discrepancies were identified with the EMRR group compared to 986 from the combined EMRR and patient interview group (P < .001). Significa...
Expression of the dermatomyositis autoantigen Mi-2 in regenerating muscle.

Objective Autoantibodies against the chromatin remodeler Mi-2 are found in a distinct subset of patients with dermatomyositis (DM). Previous quantitative immunoblotting experiments demonstrated that Mi-2 protein levels are up-regulated in DM muscle. This study was undertaken to define the population of cells expressing high levels of Mi-2 in DM muscle and to explore the regulation and functional role of Mi-2 during muscle regeneration. Methods The expression of Mi-2 was analyzed by immunofluorescence microscopy in human muscle biopsy specimens. In an experimental mouse model, cardiotoxin was used to induce muscle injury and repair, and expression of Mi-2 during muscle regeneration was studied in this model by immunofluorescence and immunoblotting analyses. In addition, a cell culture system of muscle differentiation was utilized to artificially modulate Mi-2 levels during proliferation and differentiation of myoblasts. Results In human DM muscle tissue, increased Mi-2 expression was found preferentially in the myofibers within fascicles affected by perifascicular atrophy, particularly in the centralized nuclei of small perifascicular muscle fibers expressing markers of regeneration. In injured mouse muscle tissue, Mi-2 levels were dramatically and persistently up-regulated during muscle regeneration in vivo. Premature silencing of Mi-2 with RNA interference in vitro resulted in accelerated myoblast differentiation. Conclusion Expression of Mi-2 is markedly up-regulated during muscle regeneration in a mouse model of muscle injury and repair. It is also up-regulated in human DM myofibers expressing markers of regeneration. Results of the in vitro studies indicate that this protein may play a role in modulating the kinetics of myoblast differentiation. Our findings thus suggest that high levels of Mi-2 expression in muscle biopsy tissue from patients with DM reflect the presence of incompletely differentiated muscle cells.
Comments on the interpretation of deformation textures in rocks

Abstract In rocks that undergo ductile deformation, preferred orientation develops as a result of intracrystalline slip and mechanical twinning. The orientation distribution is a consequence of the microscopic mechanisms and of the strain path. It can be used to get some insight into the deformation history; however it is never unique. The interpretation relies largely on polycrystal plasticity theory. The concepts of stress equilibrium and strain compatibility, which are two extreme assumptions made to model deformation, are discussed. New approaches such as the viscoplastic self-consistent theory are a compromise and may be applicable to mineral systems which display a high degree of plastic anisotropy. Important extensions allow for heterogeneous deformation in the polycrystal from grain to grain and even within grains in correspondence with microstructural observations. All these theories defy the popular notion which is becoming entrenched in the geological literature, that the microscopic slip plane normal aligns with the axis of maximum principal compressive stress, and that in simple shear the crystallographic slip plane rotates into the macroscopic shear plane and the slip direction into the macroscopic shear direction, an orientation referred to by geologists as ‘easy glide’. It is emphasized that future work on texture development of rocks should be based on rigorous physics rather than ingenious intuition, in accordance with an old recommendation of Walter Schmidt.
Structure of the Soot Growth Region of Laminar Premixed Methane/Oxygen Flames

The structure of the soot growth region of laminar premixed methane/oxygen flames (fuel-equivalence ratios of 1.60-2.77) was studied both experimentally and computationally. Measurements were carried out in flames stabilized on a flat flame burner operated at standard temperature and pressure, and included velocities by laser velocimetry, soot volume fractions by laser extinction, soot temperatures by multiline emission, gas temperatures (where soot was absent) by corrected fine-wire thermocouples, major gas species concentrations by sampling and gas chromatography, and hydrogen atom concentrations by the Li/LiOH technique in conjunction with atomic absorption to find the proportion of free lithium in the flames. The measured concentrations of major gas species were in reasonably good agreement with predictions based on the detailed mechanisms of Leung and Lindstedt, and Frenklach and coworkers. The measurements also confirmed predictions of both these mechanisms that H-atom concentrations are in local thermodynamic equilibrium throughout the soot growth region even through the concentrations of major gas species are not. Thus, present findings support recent evaluations of the hydrogen-abstraction/carbon-addition (HACA) soot growth mechanism in similar flames, where the approximation that H-atom concentrations were in local thermodynamic equilibrium was adopted, based on predictions using the two mechanisms, due to the absence of direct H-atom concentration measurements.
How to reliably deliver narrow individual-patient error bars for optimization of pacemaker AV or VV delay using a “pick-the-highest” strategy with haemodynamic measurements

Abstract Intuitive and easily-described, "pick-the-highest" is often recommended for quantitative optimization of AV and especially VV delay settings of biventricular pacemakers (BVP; cardiac resynchronization therapy, CRT). But reliable selection of the optimum setting is challenged by beat-to-beat physiological variation, which "pick-the-highest" combats by averaging multiple heartbeats. Optimization is not optimization unless the optimum is identified confidently. This document shows how to calculate how many heartbeats must be averaged to optimize reliably by pick-the-highest. Any reader, by conducting a few measurements, can calculate for locally-available methods (i) biological scatter between replicate measurements, and (ii) curvature of the biological response. With these, for any clinically-desired precision of optimization, the necessary number of heartbeats can be calculated. To achieve 95% confidence of getting within ±∆ x of the true optimum, the number of heartbeats needed is 2( scatter / curvature ) 2 /∆ x 4 per setting. Applying published scatter / curvature values (which readers should re-evaluate locally) indicates that optimizing AV, even coarsely with a 40ms-wide band of precision, requires many thousand beats. For VV delay, the number approaches a million. Moreover, identifying the optimum twice as precisely requires 30-fold more beats. "Pick the highest" is quick to say but slow to do. We must not expect staff to do the impossible; nor criticise them for not doing so. Nor should we assume recommendations and published protocols are well-designed. Reliable AV or VV optimization, using "pick-the-highest" on commonly-recommended manual measurements, is unrealistic. Improving time-efficiency of the optimization process to become clinically realistic may need a curve-fitting strategy instead, with all acquired data marshalled conjointly.
Resonance Frequency Analysis of Sinus Augmentation by Osteotome Sinus Floor Elevation and Lateral Window Technique

Purpose To evaluate the use of resonance frequency analysis (RFA) to quantitatively compare the stability of implants placed in the atrophic posterior maxilla using 3 sinus augmentation techniques: osteotome sinus floor elevation (OSFE) and 1- and 2-step lateral window techniques (LWTs). Materials and Methods Data were retrospectively collected from 50 patients, 29 to 85 years old. One hundred twenty-eight implants were subdivided based on sinus augmentation technique as determined by available native bone height. Thirty-three implants were placed using OSFE in at least 8.0 mm of bone. Forty-four implants were synchronously placed using 1-step LWT in 3.0 to 7.9 mm of bone. In cases with less than 3.0 mm of bone, the 2-step LWT was performed and the remaining 51 implants were placed after a period of healing. Implant stability quotient (ISQ) was recorded from RFA at stage 1 and subsequently at stage 2 (follow-up) 3 to 12 months later. Statistical analysis was completed using t test and analysis of variance to assess differences in implant stability over time and among techniques, respectively. Results ISQ values at placement averaged 70.9, 68.9, and 72.2 for OSFE, LWT, and LWT with delayed placement, respectively. These differences were not statistically significant (P = .2). At stage 2 (follow-up), average ISQ values were 76.7, 77.7, and 78.7 for OSFE, LWT, and LWT with delayed placement, respectively. These differences were not statistically significant (P = .3). In contrast, differences in ISQ at stage 2 (follow-up) versus stage 1 were statistically significant for all 3 techniques (P Conclusions The results support the use of OSFE, 1-step LWT, and 2-step LWT to augment bone in the atrophic edentulous posterior maxilla. All 3 methods provide predictable osseointegration and yield statistical increases in ISQ at stage 2 (follow-up) compared with time of placement. With appropriate case selection according to native vertical bone height, there are no statistical differences in ISQ among these 3 techniques at either stage.
Interaction of Large Three-Dimensional Eddies and Small Streamwise Vortices

An experiment to study the interactive effect of large, three-dimensional outer eddies on small streamwise vortices is conducted. The turbulent boundary layer near-wall structure is emulated by Gortler streamwise vortices
Extent of histone modifications and H10 content during cell cycle progression in the presence of butyrate

Abstract The effects of butyrate upon the extents of phosphorylation of histones H1 and H10 during cell-cycle progression have been investigated. Chinese hamster (line CHO) cells were synchronized in early S phase and released into medium containing 0 or 15 mM butyrate to resume cell-cycle traverse into G1 of the next cell cycle. Cells were also mechanically selected from monolayer cultures grown in the presence of colcemid and 0 or 15 mM butyrate to obtain >98% pure populations of metaphase cells. Although cell cycle progression is altered by butyrate, electrophoretic patterns of histones H1, H10, H3, and H4 indicate that butyrate has little, if any, effect on the extents of H1 and H10 phosphorylation during the cell cycle or the mitotic-specific phosphorylation of histone H3. Butyrate does, however, inhibit removal of extraordinary levels of histone H4 acetylation (hyperacetylation) during metaphase, and it appears to cause an increase in the content of H10 in chromatin during the S or G2 phases of the cell cycle.
Etching of copper in deionized water rinse

A new yield loss mechanism is described that is related to the etching of Cu in deionized water. Water that contains high concentrations of dissolved oxygen can etch Cu at the bottom of vias during pre-metallization wet cleans. The etching creates voids in the Cu which remain after metallization, resulting in high resistance and functional fails in the affected array circuits. The dissolved oxygen concentration in the deionized water must be minimized to prevent etching of Cu.
Registered nurses' views about work and retirement.

Study purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify what motivates experienced nurses to continue working and to consider retirement. Method: A total of 16 intensive care nurses completed phenomenological interviews. The experienced nurses were split into two groups: 31 to 49 years old (younger nurses) and 50 to 65 years old (older nurses). Results: Both groups expressed that concern about changing benefits and financial security kept them working. The younger nurse group valued working for autonomy and respect, camaraderie with peers, providing for their families, and because their parents influenced retirement perceptions. The older nurse group valued working as a way to connect with patients and families. Experiences that provoked thoughts of retirement in the older group were changes related to new technology. Older nurses did not want to work to the extent that their health was influenced. Application: By designing human resource policies that address the concerns that influence nurse retirement...
Questions and Comments about National, Externally Graded Assessment Exams: A Response to Wagenaar

EDGE" Theodore Wagenaar extends an invitation to readers to engage in a conversation about the merits of using a national, externally graded essay exam to assess undergraduate students. This invitation is appropriate, given that there are few comprehensive assessment instruments in sociology and none, to my knowledge, that has been endorsed by the American Sociological Association. Perhaps, through a collective dialogue we can arrive at a reasonable assessment instrument that can be used by a variety of sociology departments. Wagenaar's ambitious proposal is timely given the increasing external and internal pressures sociology departments are experiencing regarding the development of assessment methods. As Wagenaar and others have noted, undergraduate assessment is a priority of accreditation agencies and many college administrators (Weiss 2002; Senter 2001). But beyond this externally imposed pressure to engage in assessment activities, assessment can inform internal discussions
Analytical studies utilizing steady state hydrated electron conditions

Abstract A steady state concentration of hydrated electrons, generated by a 60Cobalt gamma source in a hydrogen saturated alkaline water solution, can be used as an analytical reagent in the determination of oxygen and hydrogen peroxide. The results are in good agreement with previous studies using pulse radiolysis.
Swelling of oil-based drilling fluids resulting from dissolved gas

The method presented in this paper uses an experimentally calibrated equation-of-state (EOS) model to estimate the swelling of oil-based drilling fluids caused by dissolved methane. With this method, the pit gain associated with a given kick size can be determined. The calculation method was verified by experiments conducted in a 6,000-ft (1828.8-m) test well. Example calculations are also presented.
The Calcium-Sensing Receptor-Dependent Regulation of Cell–Cell Adhesion and Keratinocyte Differentiation Requires Rho and Filamin A

Extracellular Ca2+ (Ca2+o) functioning through the calcium-sensing receptor (CaR) induces E-cadherin-mediated cell–cell adhesion and cellular signals mediating cell differentiation in epidermal keratinocytes. Previous studies indicate that CaR regulates cell–cell adhesion through Fyn/Src tyrosine kinases. In this study, we investigate whether Rho GTPase is a part of the CaR-mediated signaling cascade regulating cell adhesion and differentiation. Suppressing endogenous Rho A expression by small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated gene silencing blocked the Ca2+o-induced association of Fyn with E-cadherin and suppressed the Ca2+o-induced tyrosine phosphorylation of β-, γ-, and p120-catenin and formation of intercellular adherens junctions. Rho A silencing also decreased the Ca2+o-stimulated expression of terminal differentiation markers. Elevating the Ca2+o level induced interactions among CaR, Rho A, E-cadherin, and the scaffolding protein filamin A at the cell membrane. Inactivation of CaR expression by adenoviral expression of a CaR antisense complementary DNA inhibited Ca2+o-induced activation of endogenous Rho. Ca2+o activation of Rho required a direct interaction between CaR and filamin A. Interference of CaR–filamin interaction inhibited Ca2+o-induced Rho activation and the formation of cell–cell junctions. These results indicate that Rho is a downstream mediator of CaR in the regulation of Ca2+o-induced E-cadherin-mediated cell–cell adhesion and keratinocyte differentiation.
LARGE AND MASSIVE TEARS Technique of Open Repair

Although tears of the rotator cuff were first identified in 1835 by the English anatomist J. S. operative treatment was not reported until 77 years later in 1911, when Codmadl described the first repair. Subsequently, M~Laughlin~~~ discussed the pathogenesis and treatment of rotator cuff tears. Operative repair has now become a common shoulder procedure, and numerous techniques for the reconstruction of rotator cuff tears have been described.* Initial outcomes were not ideal, and several series reported a notable percentage of unfavorable result^.'^, z, 23, 31, 41, 48, 87 Many factors have been implicated in the etiology of rotator cuff pathology, including but not limited to altered vascularity,” extrinsic tendon injury caused by compression from an abnormal coracoacromial arch,’O, 36, 58, 70 and
Sinc function computation of the eigenvalues of Sturm-Liouville problems

A collocation scheme using sine basis functions is developed to approximate the eigenvalues of regular and singular Sturm-Liouville boundary value problems. The error in the approximation of the eigenvalues is shown to converge at the rate exp(−α √N) (α > 0), where 2N + 1 basis elements in the collocation scheme are used. A number of test examples are included (both finite and infinite interval boundary value problems) to indicate the accuracy and demonstrate the implementation of the method.
Study of cobalt-doped lithium-nickel oxides as cathodes for MCFC

Cobalt substituted lithium–nickel oxides were synthesized by a solid-state reaction procedure using lithium nitrate, nickel hydroxide and cobalt oxalate precursor and were characterized as cathodes for molten carbonate fuel cell (MCFC). LiNi0.8Co0.2O2 cathodes were prepared using non-aqueous tape casting technique followed by sintering in air. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis of sintered LiNi1� xCoxO2 indicated that lithium evaporation occurs during heating. The lithium loss decreases with an increase of the cobalt content in the mixed oxides. The stability studies showed that dissolution of nickel into the molten carbonate melt is smaller in the case of LiNi1� xCoxO2 cathodes compared to the dissolution values reported in the literature for state-of-the-art NiO. Pore volume analysis of the sintered electrode indicated a mean pore size of 3 mm and a porosity of 40%. A current density of 160 mA/cm 2 was observed when LiNi0.8Co0.2O2 cathodes were polarized at 140 mV. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) studies done on LiNi0.8Co0.2O2 cathodes under different gas conditions indicated that the rate of the cathodic discharge reaction depends on the O2 and CO2 partial pressures. # 2002 Published by Elsevier Science B.V.
Community and Professional Definitions of Child Neglect

This study examined the views on child neglect among African American and White community members of middle and low socioeconomic status and contrasted their views with those of professionals in th...
Computer‐aided endoscopic sinus surgery

Objectives : To examine four different types of computer-aided endoscopic sinus surgical devices-the ISG Viewing Wand, the ISG infrared OptoTrak, the IGT FlashPoint 5000, and the VTI InstaTrak-with emphasis on their accuracy and ease of use. Study Design : Prospective study utilizing laboratory experiments and intraoperative data collection. Methods: A review of the literature is presented. Patients undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery during the study period were enlisted under FDA protocols with IRB consent. Groups of patients had surgery performed with each of the above devices-except the FlashPoint 5000. Accuracy measurements were recorded, and user and operating staff comments about ease of use were collected. The FlashPoint 5000 was used exclusively in the laboratory setting, where accuracy measurements were obtained on a cadaver skull. Results: The systems all demonstrated accuracy to within 2.00 mm. Ease of use was somewhat variable, but following a learning curve by the surgeon and operating department personnel, all of the units were considered to be relatively user friendly. Conclusions: Computer-aided endoscopic sinus surgery appears to be the wave of the future. Nevertheless, the modern endoscopic sinus surgeon must have thorough training in the basic anatomy of the paranasal sinuses as well as the various surgical techniques.
Some criteria for the evaluation of graphics implementation languages

Abstract The choice of an implementation language for a graphics system impacts the ease of programming, range of functions, and overall nature of the system. By analyzing the functions of data and representation, computation and control, a set of criteria for choosing a graphics implementation language are synthesized.
Injury rates and injury risk factors among federal bureau of investigation new agent trainees

A one-year prospective examination of injury rates and injury risk factors was conducted in Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) new agent training. Injury incidents were obtained from medical records and injury compensation forms. Potential injury risk factors were acquired from a lifestyle questionnaire and existing data at the FBI Academy. A total of 426 men and 105 women participated in the project. Thirty-five percent of men and 42% of women experienced one or more injuries during training. The injury incidence rate was 2.5 and 3.2 injuries/1,000 person-days for men and women, respectively (risk ratio (women/men) = 1.3, 95% confidence interval = 0.9-1.7). The activities most commonly associated with injuries (% of total) were defensive tactics training (58%), physical fitness training (20%), physical fitness testing (5%), and firearms training (3%). Among the men, higher injury risk was associated with older age, slower 300-meter sprint time, slower 1.5-mile run time, lower total points on the physical fitness test (PFT), lower self-rated physical activity, lower frequency of aerobic exercise, a prior upper or lower limb injury, and prior foot or knee pain that limited activity. Among the women higher injury risk was associated with slower 300-meter sprint time, slower 1.5-mile run time, lower total points on the PFT, and prior back pain that limited activity. The results of this investigation supported those of a previous retrospective investigation emphasizing that lower fitness and self-reported pain limiting activity were associated with higher injury risk among FBI new agents.
Censored median regression and profile empirical likelihood

Abstract We implement profile empirical likelihood-based inference for censored median regression models. Inference for any specified subvector is carried out by profiling out the nuisance parameters from the “plug-in” empirical likelihood ratio function proposed by Qin and Tsao. To obtain the critical value of the profile empirical likelihood ratio statistic, we first investigate its asymptotic distribution. The limiting distribution is a sum of weighted chi square distributions. Unlike for the full empirical likelihood, however, the derived asymptotic distribution has intractable covariance structure. Therefore, we employ the bootstrap to obtain the critical value, and compare the resulting confidence intervals with the ones obtained through Basawa and Koul’s minimum dispersion statistic. Furthermore, we obtain confidence intervals for the age and treatment effects in a lung cancer data set.
Disabilities and aging.

Both older persons and those who havedisabilities can encounter discrimination whenthey seek medical care. Just as ageism andstereotypes about older persons mayinappropriately limit medical care for theelderly, limits may be placed on medical carefor those who are disabled simply because ofthe presence of a disability. At the sametime death is the natural end of the lifespanfor all individuals and there are situationswhen aggressive medical care is not indicated. It is not right to always insist on ``doingeverything'' for a person even if that personmay be at risk otherwise for discrimination. Using the example of the elderly, this paperexamines the risks of discrimination and thedangers of overtreatment in caring for olderpersons and suggests parallels in theappropriate care of those who havedisabilities.
Depression, fatigue, and functional disability in patients with chronic hepatitis C

Abstract Objective: To examine the extent to which fatigue and functional disability correlate with severity of depressive symptoms in patients with chronic hepatitis C. Methods: Fifty patients with chronic hepatitis C were evaluated using structured psychiatric interviews and standardized rating instruments. Results: Fourteen (28%) of patients had current depressive disorders. Depressed and nondepressed patients did not differ with regard to demographics or hepatic disease severity. Severity of depressive symptoms was highly correlated with fatigue severity while measures of hepatic disease severity, interferon treatment, and severity of comorbid medical illness were not. Severity of depressive symptoms was associated with functional disability and somatization. Conclusions: Disability and fatigue are more closely related to depression severity than to hepatic disease severity. Antidepressant treatment trials in patients with hepatitis C are indicated to determine whether improvement in depressive symptoms leads to improvement in fatigue and functioning.
Scott and the Romantic Dog

Noting the centrality of dogs in Walter Scott's life and novels, this article argues that animal metaphors mark the transgression of the boundary between human and animal. In Guy Mannering, Scott makes a conventional use of animal metaphor when the hierarchy of dog breeds serves as a model for and rationalisation of inequality in human society. In The Black Dwarf, however, Scott questions the project of founding a vision of society on a conception of the natural order. For Scott, dogs provide access to affect and, owing to their connections with memory, help to construct human subjectivity.
Chain Termination Steps in Nonribosomal Peptide Synthetase Assembly Lines: Directed Acyl‐S‐Enzyme Breakdown in Antibiotic and Siderophore Biosynthesis

A large number of therapeutically useful natural peptides areproduced nonribosomally by assembly line enzymology, involv-ing multidomain and multimodular catalysts that activate andassemble constituent amino acid monomers into oligopeptides.The peptide chains released (Scheme 1) can be final productssuch as cyclosporin (1)
A singular case of elephantiasic nodular pretibial myxedema

A 54-year-old male with hypothyroidism was evaluated for progressive lower extremity swelling with unusual skin changes. Four years prior, he was diagnosed with Graves’ disease that was treated with radioactive iodine. His physical examination was remarkable for severe bilateral lower extremity lymphedema complicated by diffuse hyperkeratosis with a peau d’orange appearance and large nodules (Panel A). Significant distal findings included ‘sausage toes’, a positive Stemmer’s sign, as well as a gyriform/polypoid-appearing dorsal left hallux (Panel B). Smaller nodules were present on the forearms (Panel C). A skin biopsy displayed epidermal thickening with copious dermal mucin deposition consistent with pretibial myxedema (PTM). Pretibial myxedema, also known as thyroid or infiltrative dermopathy, is an uncommon manifestation of Graves’ disease, occurring in less than 5% of cases. Multiple morphological subtypes of PTM exist. In a classic Mayo clinic review of 150 patients with PTM, 58% manifested non-pitting edema with hyperkeratosis and pink, red, yellow, or brown pigmentation, 20% had nodules, and 21% exhibited plaques. Less than 1% of patients were affected with either a polypoid or elephantiasic form of PTM.1 The lower extremities (pretibial and/or feet) are classically involved; however, the head, scalp, neck, arms, and/or hands are rarely affected as well. In the Mayo clinic series, only one out of 150 patients displayed upper extremity involvement. Other characteristic manifestations of Graves’ disease include exophthalmos and thyroid acropachy. Panel A Panel B
A Hybrid Recursive Model for Teaching and Learning Business Writing

To replicate the need for communication speed and effectiveness in the workplace, I have designed a successful business writing course based on a hybrid recursive model that combines prescriptive r...
Approximate throughput analysis of cyclic queueing networks with finite buffers

An approximation method for obtaining the throughput of cyclic queueing networks with blocking as a function of the number of customers in it is presented. The approximation method was developed for two different blocking mechanisms. It was also extended to the case of the central server model with blocking. Validation tests show that the algorithm is fairly accurate. >
Influence of Feedback Parameters on Performance of a Vibrotactile Balance Prosthesis

We investigated the influence of feedback conditions on the effectiveness of a balance prosthesis. The balance prosthesis used an array of 12 tactile vibrators (tactors) placed on the anterior and posterior surfaces of the torso to provide body orientation feedback related to several different combinations of angular position and velocity of body sway in the sagittal plane. Control tests were performed with no tactor activation. Body sway was evoked in subjects with normal sensory function by rotating the support surface upon which subjects stood with eyes closed. Body sway was analyzed by computing root mean square sway measures and by a frequency-response function analysis that characterized the amplitude (gain) and timing (phase) of body sway over a frequency range of 0.017-2.2 Hz. Root mean square sway measures showed a reduction of surface stimulus evoked body sway for most vibrotactile feedback settings compared to control conditions. However, frequency-response function analysis showed that the sway reduction was due primarily to a reduction in sway below about 0.5 Hz, whereas there was actually an enhancement of sway above 0.6 Hz. Finally, we created a postural model that accounted for the experimental results and gave insight into how vibrotactile information was incorporated into the postural control system.