cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Distribution and retention of atrazine and carbofuran in farm pond ecosystems

The distribution and retention of atrazine and carbofuran in farm ponds were examined after application of 0.3 ppm of atrazine [2-chloro-4-(ethylamino)-6-(isopropylamino)-S-triazine] for two years and 0.025 ppm of carbofuran (2,3-dihydro-2,2-dimethyl-7-benzofuranyl methylcarbamate) the first year and 0.050 ppm for the second year. Samples of water, mud, and various biological components for the systems were collected periodically for residue analyses by gas chromatography. Soon after atrazine was applied, it was found in all physical and biological components. No biological magnification was observed. Carbofuran showed up only in the water and mud immediately after application; from then on it was absent from all components. No adverse effects from either pesticide were observed in the biological components.
ADVANCED EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGIES AND INTELLIGENT TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS TRAINING: STATE OF THE PRACTICE

During the past five years, the development of tools and materials to support intelligent transportation systems (ITS) education at university and professional levels has experienced tremendous growth. With the rapid advancement of educational technologies, there is an eagerness to develop new ways to impart ITS knowledge. A survey of state departments of transportation was performed to identify the needs for ITS education and assess the potential for delivery of this material through educational technology. A review of pertinent literature related to adult learning and its implications was conducted. Recommendations to guide the design of educational materials are presented. A taxonomy designed to aid ITS professionals in identifying available educational materials by competency area, knowledge acquisition needs, and available resources is proposed.
Enhanced antimicrobial effects of combination of lactate and diacetate on Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella spp. in beef bologna

Abstract The antimicrobial activities of salts of organic acids such as lactate and acetate are well documented, but there is limited information on their effect when used in combination. We previously reported enhanced inhibition of Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis in sterile comminuted beef at 5 and 10 °C by combinations of sodium lactate (SL) (2.5%) and sodium diacetate (SDA) (0.2%). The present study was undertaken to evaluate the inhibitory effect of these salts, alone and in combination, in ready-to-eat (RTE) meat. Single strains and six-strain mixtures of each of the pathogens (∼3 log CFU/g) were tested in beef bologna during aerobic storage at 5 and 10 °C for up to 60 days. The growth rate of the six-strain mixture of Listeria was faster than that of the single strain (Scott A) in the lactate/diacetate-free product. While each of the salts delayed growth of the listeriae at 5 °C, the effect of their combination was listericidal for the single strain and listeriostatic for the six-strain mixture. Enhanced inhibition by the salt combination was also observed at 10 °C. Salmonella numbers declined to undetectable levels in the untreated meat product and in each of the treatments after 20–30 days. However, the decline was more rapid in meat with the combination of the salts during storage at both 5 and 10 °C. Each of the salts further delayed the growth of the background microflora during storage at 5 °C, with their combinations showing the most effect.
Localization and distribution of adenosine triphosphatase activity in the femurs of young mice.

The localization and distribution of ATPase activity in the femurs of young mice was evaluated using the lead-ATPase histochemical method. The skeletal system demonstrated an intracellular distribution of ATPase activity. Enzyme activity of osteoclasts, and metaphyseal and perichondrial osteoblasts was high. Endosteal and periosteal osteoblasts varied in activity depending upon the area under observation. Preosteoblasts (progenitive cells) of the osteogenic periosteum, osteochondrogenic cells of the perichondrial region, chondrocytes, and cells of the fibrous periosteum demonstrated minimal activity. Osteocytes were negative. The distribution of osteoblast APTase activity coincided with areas of active collagen synthesis.
Implicit metacognition, explicit uncertainty, and the monitoring/control distinction in animal metacognition

Smith et al. demonstrate the viability of animal metacognition research. We commend their effort and suggest three avenues of research. The first concerns whether animals are explicitly aware of their metacognitive processes. The second asks whether animals have metaknowledge of their own uncertain responses. The third issue concerns the monitoring/control distinction. We suggest some ways in which these issues elucidate metacognitive processes in nonhuman animals.
ANN constitutive model for high strain-rate deformation of Al 7075-T6

Abstract An artificial neural network (ANN) constitutive model was developed for Al 7075-T6 based on flow data found in the literature and orthogonal machining tests. The use of orthogonal machining data allowed the ANN network to be trained and tested at high strain-rates of deformation common in machining operations. A new ANN method of network construction (training and validation) was successfully applied to the sparse high strain-rate regime. The method of training and validation, 0.632e stop training method, requires less experimentation to determine network parameters and makes the most efficient use of scarce data. The ANN predictions at high strain-rates where compared with and shown to be superior to a parametric constitutive model.
VISUALLY-ELICITED FINGER EXTENSION IN INFANTS: REFLEX OR REACHING?

Arm and finger movements commonly observed in young infants may be neither responses to internal stimuli, nor attempts to “reach for” objects, but reflex-like responses to stimulation from objects. Schnelria's Approach-Withdrawal Theory proposes that at early stages of development in all animals, low intensities of stimulation evoke approach responses and high intensities evoke withdrawal. This hypothesis was tested in 26 human infants by observing their finger responses to a cone that varied in intensity. It was near or far, large or small, bright or dim, with eight combinations from low (far-small-dim) to high (near-large-bright) intensity. Finger movements (flexion or extension) were recorded and ratios of extensions/flexions + extensions computed. There were significant age. Intensity, and age x intensity effects with younger infants' (10-15 weeks) responses clearly related to intensity, while older infants' (20-25 weeks) responses were not. Younger infants made more extensions (approach) to low intensity stimuli, and more flexions (withdrawal) to high intensity stimuli, their extension ratios following an inverse intensity gradient. Such reflex-like responses in very young infants may contribute to the development of reaching by bringing the hands and other objects into the visual field so that intersensory integration can occur. The development of reaching may thus be facilitated by presenting infants stimuli that effectively elicit approach responses.
Optimal controls for an advanced turbofan engine

Linear optimal control theory is applied to the control synthesis of a high bypass ratio, variable pitch, turbofan engine. The basic control philosophy is to use only a low order dynamic model of the plant coupled with the concept of integral-output states so as to maintain control simplicity yet guarantee integral control of thrust, turbine temperature and other important engine outputs. Linear simulation results indicate that the control system developed provides rapid control of small thrust perturbations and quickly eliminates the effect of unmodelled thrust and temperature disturbances. Large thrust accelerations are obtained in about one half second while the control maintains negligible overshoot in temperature and stall margins.
Extreme Elongation of Vesicles Under DC Electric Fields

Electrodeformation refers to the deformation of cell or vesicle lipid membranes under the application of an electric field. Such a phenomenon often accompanies electroporation processes, and also can be leveraged to detect pathological changes in cells. Recent studies have suggested that the electrical conductivity difference across the lipid membrane is a dominant factor in determining the characteristics of deformation, and various regimes of deformation were observed. Using a vesicle model system, the current work is the first report of extreme elongation of vesicles of high conductivity ratio under DC electric fields. The results suggest that the osmolarity difference between the encapsulated and bathing solutions may contribute to such abnormal deformation behavior.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Soft-x-ray small-angle scattering as a sensitive probe of magnetic and charge heterogeneity

Cobalt $2p$ resonant scattering from Co/Pt multilayers with perpendicular anisotropy results from magnetic and chemical heterogeneity having very different length scales. Magnetic and chemical scattering result from domains and the crystalline grain structure, respectively, as confirmed by field-dependent scattering and by imaging using magnetic x-ray and atomic force microscopy. Magnetic and charge scattering have distinct energy spectra that are quantitatively modeled using measured Co scattering factors. Domain and chemical correlations remain uncoupled throughout the reversal process.
Review of experimental and quasi-experimental studies finds that mindfulness-based interventions are more effective than standard care for reducing depressive symptoms in adults with mental disorders

Commentary on: Klainin-Yobas P, Cho MA, Creedy D . Efficacy of mindfulness-based interventions on depressive symptoms among people with mental disorders: a meta-analysis. Int J Nurs Stud 2012;49:109–21.[OpenUrl][1][CrossRef][2][PubMed][3] Depression is one of the most common psychological disorders and is frequently comorbid with other psychiatric conditions. Mindfulness-based interventions have become increasingly popular mainstays of treatment and adjuncts to empirically established therapies. The authors performed a meta-analysis of 39 studies across nine countries involving 1847 participants with … [1]: {openurl}?query=rft.jtitle%253DInternational%2Bjournal%2Bof%2Bnursing%2Bstudies%26rft.stitle%253DInt%2BJ%2BNurs%2BStud%26rft.aulast%253DKlainin-Yobas%26rft.auinit1%253DP.%26rft.volume%253D49%26rft.issue%253D1%26rft.spage%253D109%26rft.epage%253D121%26rft.atitle%253DEfficacy%2Bof%2Bmindfulness-based%2Binterventions%2Bon%2Bdepressive%2Bsymptoms%2Bamong%2Bpeople%2Bwith%2Bmental%2Bdisorders%253A%2Ba%2Bmeta-analysis.%26rft_id%253Dinfo%253Adoi%252F10.1016%252Fj.ijnurstu.2011.08.014%26rft_id%253Dinfo%253Apmid%252F21963234%26rft.genre%253Darticle%26rft_val_fmt%253Dinfo%253Aofi%252Ffmt%253Akev%253Amtx%253Ajournal%26ctx_ver%253DZ39.88-2004%26url_ver%253DZ39.88-2004%26url_ctx_fmt%253Dinfo%253Aofi%252Ffmt%253Akev%253Amtx%253Actx [2]: /lookup/external-ref?access_num=10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2011.08.014&link_type=DOI [3]: /lookup/external-ref?access_num=21963234&link_type=MED&atom=%2Febnurs%2F16%2F1%2F12.atom
The Reproductive Consequences Associated with Inducible Alkaloidal Responses in Wild Tobacco

We experimentally examined the phenotypic cost (as measured by the effect on seed set) associated with an inducible alkaloidal response in Nicotiana sylvestris (Solanaceae). Alkaloid concentrations were partially uncoupled from leaf damage in two experiments with the use of two techniques: (1) applying auxins to damaged leaf edges, and (2) minimizing the damage to veins of the leaf. Both of these techniques inhibited the induced response. In both experiments with flowering—stage plants, damaged plants with elevated alkaloids contents had lower reproductive output than similarly damaged plants with low alkaloid contents. Plants were able to compensate for damage inflicted during the rosette stage; reproductive output of damage plants did not differ from that of control plants. In addition, we found a significant negative correlation between seed number and leaf alkaloid content in undamaged full—sib plants. While these results are consistent with the hypothesis that the alkaloidal response to damage is associated with diminished reproductive output, and decrement in reproductive output cannot be directly attributed to alkaloid production because other unmeasured responses to damage may accompany the alkaloidal response to damage and thereby confound these measures of phenotypic cost. Last, we examined the consequences of altering leaf alkaloid concentrations, within the range found during the induced response, on rates of carbon gain and found no effect in tobacco.
Density, Housing Types and Mixed Land Use: Smart Tools for Affordable Housing?

Smart growth proponents suggest that the housing needs of low-income households can be better met by neighbourhoods of greater density, a greater variety of housing types and mixed land use than by neighbourhoods dominated by low-density, single-family homes. This research tests these relationships in two regions: one with and one without urban containment policies. The research provides evidence that neighbourhoods with a greater variety of housing types and residential density have a greater quantity of units affordable to very low-income renters and, at the same time, a greater quantity of units that are not affordable. An implication of the findings is that planners and growth management advocates should specify goals of housing types, in addition to density targets, when creating or updating comprehensive plans for future growth.
Use of endoscopy to prepare patients for surgery

Abstract Gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy is a useful tool for GI disorders; it is also important to collect information at the preoperative stage for patients who are going to have GI surgery. Endoscopy can offer therapeutic, curative, or palliative management of certain pathologies that can alter the need for the patient to undergo surgery. Endoscopic interpretation can contain a certain amount of individually variable observer subjectivity. Accordingly an appropriate standardized grading and staging terminology needs to be developed to obtain optimal results in the management of GI disorders. This section summarizes the role of endoscopy in preparing patients for surgery with particular focus on using standardized grading and staging criteria or both. Standardization of documentation affords a clearer understanding of the anatomy and pathology to better plan patient care.
A method for quantitative elution of microgram quantities of steroids from silica gel layers.

Abstract A rapid elution technique which uses a modified Swinny hypodermic adapter and millipore filters for quantitative recovery of steroids from thin layers is described. Recovery of cholesterol, progesterone, androstenedione, estradiol and diethylstilbestrol from silica gel is quantitative by this method.
Empirical tests of carbon isotope thermometry in granulites from southern California

Abstract ‘Peak’metamorphic carbon isotope fractionations between calcite and graphite (ΔCal–Gr) in marbles and calc-silicates from the Cucamonga granulite terrane (San Gabriel Mountains, California) range from 3.48 to 2.90%. The data are used to test three previously published calibrations of the calcite–graphite carbon isotope thermometer. An empirical calibration of the calcite–graphite carbon isotope thermometer gives temperatures of 700–750°C; a theoretical–experimental calibration of the system gives temperatures of 760°–870°C; an experimental calibration gives temperatures of 870–1300°C. Temperatures calculated using the empirical calibration are in agreement with those calculated from garnet-based cation exchange thermometry when uncertainty is considered. Temperatures calculated using the theoretical–experimental calibration overlap the upper range of cation exchange thermometry temperatures and range to 50°C higher. The experimental calibration yields temperatures from 50 to 480°C higher than those from cation exchange thermometry. Moreover, temperatures from the experimental calibration are also inconsistent with mineral and melt equilibria in the granulite phase assemblage. Despite the better agreement between cation exchange thermometry and the empirical calibration of the calcite–graphite system, temperatures calculated using the theoretical–experimental calibration may be real peak metamorphic temperatures. If retrograde diffusion partially reset garnet-based cation exchange thermometers by c. 50°C, then the cation exchange temperatures are consistent with those from the theoretical–empirical calibration. Thermometric evidence from biotite dehydration melting equilibria is consistent with either the empirical calibration if melting was fluid-present, or the theoretical–experimental calibration if melting was fluid-absent.
Commercial off-the-shelf DICOM teleradiology

The implementation of teleradiology is spreading throughout the U.S. military. In an effort to contain cost, the Medical Diagnostic Imaging Support (MDIS) Office at the Medical Advanced Technology Management Office (MATMO), Fort Detrick, Maryland, implemented an 'off- the-shelf' DICOM teleradiology system by which computed radiography (CR) images acquired at Hickam Air Force Base (AFB), Hawaii, can be transmitted electronically over a T-1 telecommunications line to Tripler Army Medical Center (TAMC), Hawaii. The goal was to provide a teleradiology system to the military services which extends the expertise and training of physicians to remote sites, while realizing cost savings through off-the-shelf DICOM technology. The TAMC teleradiology hub equipment was provided to support soft copy diagnostic reading. The Army X-Ray ISO-Shelter along with the teleradiology equipment allows Hickam AFB to maintain radiology services during an on-going construction project. This poster presents the results of a successful off-the-shelf DICOM teleradiology implementation.© (1996) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Anti-proliferative effects of green tea polyphenol EGCG on Ha-Ras-induced transformation of intestinal epithelial cells

Oncogenic Ras mutations are frequently observed in colorectal cancer and participate in neoplastic transformation of intestinal epithelial cells. Accumulating evidence demonstrates the chemopreventive properties of green tea on colon carcinogenesis. Here we investigated the major green tea polyphenol, (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), to inhibit proliferation of intestinal epithelial cells (RIE-1) transfected with an inducible Ha-Ras(Val12) cDNA. EGCG inhibited cell proliferation induced by oncogenic Ras and blocked cell cycle transition at G1 phase via inhibition of cyclin D1 expression. The EGCG IC(50) was 42microM in transformed cells and 81microM in non-transformed cells. EGCG also promoted E-cadherin expression, which is downregulated by Ras transformation. This study demonstrates the potential of the natural compound EGCG as an effective adjuvant therapy for colon tumors bearing Ras mutations.
Antitumor imide derivatives of 7-oxabicyclo[2.2.1]heptane-2,3-dimethyl-2,3-dicarboxylic acid

The imide and methylimide derivatives of 7-oxobicyclo-[2.2.1]heptane-2,3-dimethyl-2,3-dicarboxylic acid were synthesized and shown to have antitumor inhibitory activity (growth inhibition) against the KB cell line. The compounds were prepared according to standard procedures. Interest in the respective imide derivatives stemmed from their structural relationship to antitumor-active derivatives of 7-oxobicyclo[2.2.1]heptane-2,3-dicarboxylic acid which lacked 2,3-dimethyl substituents or which were derivatives of isoindolines and lacked the carbonyl groups.
Phase behavior of pH-dependent microemulsions

Abstract A model microemulsion system which exhibits pH-dependent phase behavior has been developed using oleic acid as the surfactant. Ultralow interfacial tensions were observed using an automated sessile drop technique. The effect of salinity on phase behavior can be counterbalanced by pH adjustment under appropriate conditions. Added electrolyte makes the surfactant system hydrophobic while an increase in pH can make it hydrophilic by ionizing more surfactant. Calculations based on the Gouy-Chapman theory are presented to describe the effects of pH and salinity. The study is relevant to enhanced oil recovery by chemical flooding.
Association of the herpes simplex virus regulatory protein ICP4 with specific nucleotide sequences in DNA

Abstract We report that the herpes simplex virus (HSV) transcription regulatory protein designated ICP4 is a component of a stable complex between protein and specific nucleotide sequences in double-stranded DNA formed by addition of exogenous DNA to either a crude extract obtained from HSV-1 infected cells or a partially purified preparation of native ICP4. DNA sites which are bound directly or indirectly to ICP4 have been designated ICP4/protein binding sites. Three independent ICP4/protein binding sites have been identified by DNAse footprinting; two are in the vector pBR322 and one is located approximately 100 nucleotides upstream from the HSV glycoprotein D mRNA cap site. Comparison of the nucleotide sequences in these three sites reveals several regions of homology. We propose that the sequence 5'-ATCGTCNNNNYCGRC-3' (N = any base; Y = pyrimidine; R = purine) forms an essential component of the ICP4/protein binding site.
Media Reform and Development in Bosnia: An Interorganizational Account of the Media Issues Group

This manuscript focuses on development assistance players' efforts to cooperate, coordinate and collaborate on projects of mutual interest. I target the case of the cross-sectoral and international Media Issues Group designed to reform and develop the media sector in Bosnia and Herzegovina. I identify and categorize variables that influenced interorganizational relationships to summarize lessons learned and potentially inform similar interventions. This work suggests that cooperation, coordination and collaboration are constrained by contextual, strategic and procedural variables. Through participant narrative based on observation and interviews, this work clarifies the nuances within these three sets of variables for potential extrapolation to other settings. Perhaps more importantly, it provides lessons learned that can inform future international community interventions in market development activities.
Predicting tumor response in breast cancer patients using diffuse optical tomography

We have developed a diffuse optical tomography imaging system to track breast tumor progression in patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Preliminary results have shown that tumor response can be predicted by the second week of treatment.
Does thermalization occur in intermediate energy nucleus-nucleus collisions?

Abstract Evidence for thermalization in intermediate energy nucleus-nucleus collisions is presented based on inclusive light particle and complex fragment spectra, light particle-complex fragment correlation measurements and p-p correlation results. A consistent result is obtained that nucleons and light nuclei emitted in these reactions display many characteristics of thermal system.
A slow seismic event recorded in Pasadena

A prominent long-period wave with a duration of 2000 sec or longer was recorded with a very-broadband system in Pasadena on June 18, 1988. This wave was not observed elsewhere, and is considered of local origin. The acceleration amplitude is 2.5×10^(−5) cm/sec² in the northwest direction, with the vertical component less than 10% of the horizontal. The horizontal acceleration can be interpreted as due to a tilt of the ground of 2.5×10^(−8) radians to the northwest. A slowly propagating pressure wave with an amplitude of about 15 mbars could be the cause of the tilt; however, there were no reports suggesting such pressure changes. A more likely cause is a slow tectonic event near Pasadena. The required magnitude of such a slow event is M_w=0, 2, and 4, for a distance of 0.1, 1, and 10 km respectively. This event could be part of a tectonic episode associated with the larger earthquakes which occurred in southern California around this time, especially the December 3, 1988, Pasadena earthquake (M_L=4.9) which occurred six months later within 4 km of the Pasadena station.
Effective slip in numerical calculations of moving-contact-line problems

For many coating flows, the profile thickness h, near the front of the coating film, is governed by a third-order ordinary differential equation of the form h m = f(h), for some given f(h). We consider here the case of dry wall coating which allows for slip in the vicinity of the moving contact-line. For this case, one such model equation, due to Greenspan, f h = -1 + (1 + α)/(h 2 + α), where α is the slip coefficient. The equation is solved using a finite difference scheme, with a contact angle boundary condition prescribed at the moving contact-line. Using the maximum thickness of the profile as the control parameter, we show that there is a direct relationship between the effective Greenspan slip coefficient and the grid-spacing of the numerical scheme used to solve the model equation. In doing so, we show that slip is implicitly built into the numerical scheme through the finite grid-spacing. We also show why converged results with finite film thickness cannot be obtained if slip is ignored.
Fibronectin from aged fibroblasts is defective in promoting cellular adhesion

Late passage fibroblasts show decreased cell-substrate adhesion. We provide evidence that the reduced adhesion is due to a defect in the adhesive glycoprotein fibronectin. Late passage cells become more adhesive in culture media that has been conditioned by the growth of early passage cells. Analysis of fibronectins purified from early and late passage cell conditioned media indicates that there are striking differences in their abilities to promote cell adhesion. Young cell fibronectin supports the maximal adhesion of both young and old cells. However, old cells require quantitatively more fibronectin. In contrast, old cell fibronectin is less effective in supporting the adhesion of either cell type. In addition, neither cell type achieves a normal morphology in the presence of old cell fibronectin. The results support the conclusion that the fibronectin released by late passage cells is defective and does not support normal cell-substrate interactions.
Tectonically driven fluid flow in the Kodiak accretionary complex, Alaska

Sandstone and chert boudins that have syntectonic extensional veins are dominant structural elements in melanges of the Kodiak accretionary complex, Alaska. Detailed analyses of cogenetic methane-rich and water-rich fluid inclusions in syntectonic quartz veins indicate that fluid pressures dropped by 20% to 45% during crystal growth. This drop occurred faster than uplift of the rock and probably represents the local effect of fluid escaping to shallow levels in the subduction complex during melange deformation, possibly along an interconnected fracture network. An important implication of channelized fracture flow to higher levels in a subduction complex is that fluids may transport heat and solutes, thereby generating thermal and chemical anomalies along shallow faults.
Electrochemical interrogations of the Mtr cytochromes from Shewanella : opening a potential window

The multi-heme cytochromes from Shewanella oneidensis associated with the dissimilatory metal reduction (DMR) pathway have been investigated using the technique of protein film voltammetry (PFV). Using PFV, we have interrogated each of the multi-heme cytochromes (MtrA, STC, and solubilized versions of the membrane-bound proteins CymA, OmcA, and MtrC) under identical conditions for the first time. Each cytochrome reveals a broad envelope of voltammetric response, indicative of multiple redox cofactors that span a range of potential of approximately 300 mV. Our studies show that, when considered as an aggregate pathway, the multiple hemes of the DMR cytochromes provide a "window" of operating potential for electron transfer to occur from the cellular interior to the exterior spanning values of -250 to 0 mV (at circumneutral values of pH). Similarly, each cytochrome supports interfacial electron transfer at rates on the order of 200 s(-1). These data are taken together to suggest a model of electron transport where a wide window of potential allows for charge transfer from the cellular interior to the exterior to support bioenergetics.
Mechanisms for improving the effectiveness of R&D: How many mechanisms are enough?

The author proposes and explains a method of rating the effectiveness of an R&D organisation without attempting to measure its output. He postulates that the basic reason that an R&D organisation does not do the right R&D or get it used effectively is that it is working in isolation. In other words the interfaces between R&D and the outside world are not being managed. To achieve effective interface management requires an organisational change. Hence the problem of increasing R&D effectiveness is transformed to a problem of developing strategies to bring about this change. The author proposes a strategy which first requires the company to define objectives for interface management. The next question is to find out why the interfaces need to be managed; for the present business, for improving the people involved or for creating new opportunities for the future? This is a sequence of increasing refinement. Each phase of the R&D process is then looked at to determine the current state of interface management and take action to bring it to the next more refined stage. The author gives examples of what he means and discusses how his system can help the practising R&D director.
Voice Disorders in Actors

Summary Objectives/Hypothesis The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of vocal pathology among first-year acting students. Study Design A retrospective review of 30 first-year graduate-level drama students between 2009 and 2011 was performed. Methods Stroboscopy, Voice Handicap Index-10 questionnaires, and acoustic measures were analyzed. Results The prevalence of incomplete glottal closure, laryngeal hyperfunction, and decreased mucosal wave was 62%, 59%, and 55%, respectively. Laryngoscopic findings consistent with laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) were demonstrated in 48% of subjects. Subgroup analysis of laryngeal hyperfunctioning (HF) and nonhyperfunctioning drama students revealed an increased prevalence of all videostroboscopic abnormalities in the HF group. The increased prevalence of LPR stigmata in HF actors reached statistical significance ( P = 0.04). Conclusions The vocal demands of actors are unique, requiring the effective use of volume, pitch control, and endurance. This is the first study that systematically analyzes the prevalence of vocal pathology in actors. This study will continue throughout their education, anticipating that our feedback along with their vocal training will improve outcomes.
Small bowel transplantation: technical advances/updates.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW The field of intestinal transplantation continues to grow, both in terms of overall transplants performed each year and number of centers adopting this procedure. Numerous advances in technical and management procedures have resulted in improvements of patient and graft survival. This review focuses on the technical advances that have emerged over the last year. RECENT FINDINGS Multiple variations of the original technique of intestinal transplantation are now utilized according to the patients' original diagnoses and/or degree of liver dysfunction. Multivisceral grafts can include both donor spleen and large intestine; preservation of the native spleen and pancreas is possible in some cases. Living donor intestinal transplantation is being described as alternative technique to minimize death on the waitlist. SUMMARY Constant evolution in the surgical aspects of intestinal transplantation parallels the improvements that have taken place in the medical management and immunosuppression. The transplant surgeon with full knowledge of all variations of intestinal transplant techniques will be able to tailor the type of surgery to each individual patient.
Complex Rules and Congressional Outcomes: An Event Study of Energy Tax Legislation

Based on a legislative history of energy tax legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives in the Ninety-third Congress, this article extends a spatial model of legislative politics to accommodate complex special rules. The model and extension yield two predictions regarding the effect of the assignment of rules on expected congressional outcomes. The predictions are tested by examining stock market returns to oil and gas stocks. Both predictions are supported even when alternative and competing explanations are taken into account. A concluding discussion qualifies the theoretical and empirical results by addressing two broader issues: the sources of committee power and the relationship between congressional and economic activity.
COLOR DEVELOPMENT AND CAROTENOID LEVELS IN RIN AND NOR TOMATOES AS INFLUENCED BY ETHEPHON, LIGHT AND OXYGEN

Fruits of rin and nor tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) mutants do not develop normal pigmentation and undergo normal ripening. The effects of ethephon, light and O2 on color development and carotenoid levels in harvested fruits were determined. Increasing concentration of ethephon increased red surface color (color difference meter a values). The addition of light greatly enhanced red color development. Fruits of rin were more responsive to light and ethephon than were fruits of nor. Oxygen (100%) enhanced color development in nor fruits held in dark conditions, but it was detrimental to ethephon induced color development in both rin and nor fruits exposed to light. Ethephon and light each substantially enhanced beta-carotene and lycopene levels. Fruits exposed to both ethephon and light had further increases in beta-carotene and lycopene levels. In rin and nor fruits, it appears that light and ethylene are important in stimulating carotenoid synthesis and regulating levels of particular carotenoids.
Improved detection of rhamnolipid production using agar plates containing methylene blue and cetyl trimethylammonium bromide

Rhamnolipids, produced predominantly by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, are biosurfactants with important applications. For efficient culture screening according to rhamnolipid productivity, the method using agar plates containing methylene blue (MB) and cetyl trimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) was re-examined. An alternative set-up using a fixed underneath light source and image analysis software improved the detection of the circles formed due to complexation between anionic rhamnolipids and cationic MB/CTAB. The roles and effects of MB and CTAB concentrations and pH on the complexation phenomena are reported.
Google scholar vs. library scholar : Testing the performance of schoogle

Abstract How does the content of Google Scholar, a.k.a. “Schoogle,” compare to that of subscription databases and the library catalog? Five sample research topics indigenous to undergraduate libraries were searched in Google Scholar, the College of Charleston online catalog, EBSCO's Academic Search Premier database, and a subject-specific subscription database. Points of consideration included document type, availability of full-text materials, local availability of materials (either in print or online), and relevance of materials to the research topics. Results showed that Google Scholar, while a substantive supplementary research tool, does not provide the same quality in terms of relevance for many research topics.
Temperature profiles in the thermal entrance region for laminar flow in an electrically heated slit

Abstract An analytical solution is presented for the partial differential equation describing the temperature profile in the entry region of an electrically heated slit. This solution was found by using a decomposition technique developed by Amundson and Ramkrishna which transforms an inseparable, non-self-adjoint equation into a separable, self-adjoint equation. The solution predicts that, when the autothermal parameter is greater than zero, the temperature will increase indefinitely with axial position when Bi Bi c . The solution incorrectly predicts that the slit will exhibit spatial oscillations if the Peclet number falls below a critical value near Pe ∼ κ . This turns out to be an artifact related to the assumption that a steady-state solution exists under these conditions.
First branchial arch abnormality: diagnostic dilemma and excision with facial nerve preservation.

Objective To report a case of first branchial arch abnormality and the problems associated with misdiagnosis. A succinct literature review is included. Setting Teaching hospital in Scotland. Methods A 10-year-old girl presented with localised erythema and swelling in the left parotid region. This was treated with antibiotics and incision and drainage. She re-presented four years later with a history of recurrent discharge. A first branchial arch abnormality was suspected and a magnetic resonance imaging scan arranged. Results Imaging showed a fluid-filled sinus tract originating adjacent to the anterior wall of the cartilaginous left external auditory canal. The sinus tract was seen to extend anteriorly and inferiorly through the superficial lobe of the left parotid, and to open onto the left cheek lateral to the left masseter. The tract was explored and excised under general anaesthesia, via two separate incisions, with preservation of the facial nerve. Conclusion The diagnosis of a first branchial arch abnormality is generally based on a high index of clinical suspicion, when a neck swelling is noted in a child. Magnetic resonance imaging is a useful modality for investigation, and helps to delineate the position of the tract and its relationship to the facial nerve.
Of Garage Bands and Song-getting: The Musical Development of Young Rock Musicians

This paper explores systems of music transmission, teaching and learning in evidence within the rehearsals of rock bands. Informants were nine musicians in two Seattle rock bands, all white males, ranging in age from fourteen to sixteen. Through interviews and observations of practice sessions, 'song-getting' and' skill-building' processes were noted. Attention was given to the young musicians' analytical listening behaviours, their evaluative remarks, and the social interactions of the groups' leaders as 'expert' musical models with other members of the group. Early home and school musical musical influences were examined, and ways in which the school music curriculum might be made more relevant to the needs and interests of young rock musicians are discussed.
Applications of far-infrared free-electron lasers to condensed-matter physics

Far-infrared free-electron lasers (FIR FEL’s) provide a unique tunable source in the 100–1000-μm region. The application of FEL’s to several condensed-matter systems is discussed with special reference to those systems that have been studied by optical spectroscopy. The optical switching of FIR radiation in order to generate nanosecond tunable FIR pulses is described. Future experiments for FIR FEL’s are discussed in context with ongoing improvements and the development of new machines.
Relation of Impaired Lymphocyte Proliferative Function to Other Major Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1-Induced Immunological Changes

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) type 1 (HIV-1) induces impairment of immune function reflected in reduced lymphocyte proliferative responses. Many other immune changes are induced by HIV-1, but their relationship to lymphocyte functional defects is not known. The present study was designed to correlate functional defects with other HIV disease parameters. Cryopreserved samples from 118 HIV-1-positive subjects and 40 seronegative individuals were examined. The main findings were that impaired proliferative responses to mitogens correlated with (i) decreased cell surface expression of the interleukin-2 receptor (CD25), (ii) increased expression of HLA-DR antigens on CD4 cells, (iii) reduced CD4 and increased CD8 cell numbers, and (iv) increased levels of serum immune complex dissociated p24 antigen. However, impaired function was not associated with increased serum neopterin, beta2-microglobulin, or soluble interleukin-2 receptor or with CD38 antigen expression on lymphocytes. In summary, proliferative functional impairment correlated with some, but not all, immunological changes associated with HIV-1 infection. Most of the phenotypic markers that correlated with altered function are cell surface molecules with significant roles in lymphocyte proliferation and were associated primarily with CD4 cells, compatible with the view that dysregulation of CD4 cells is responsible for impaired function.
Relative Effectiveness of Sub-slab Pressurization and Depressurization Systems for Indoor Radon Mitigation: Studies with an Experimentally Verified Numerical Model

The performance of sub-slab-ventilation (SSV) systems has been parametrically studied with a numerical model that was earlier compared successfully with experiment (Bonnefous et al., 1992). The model distinguishes between the sub-slab gravel and the underlying soil. It is used w examine system performance for the following system parameters: the permeability of the soil and of the sub-slab gravel, the magnitude of pressurization (or depressurization) applied by the SSV system, and the mode of SSV application (i.e. pressurization (SSP) or depressurization (SSD)). The mechanisms contributing to the successful performance of SSP and SSD systems are identified. For SSD systems, the mechanisms are (1) the inversion of the pressure gradient across the basement slab, and (2) the reduction of the radon concentration in the soil. For SSP systems, the mechanisms are (1) the elimination of convective flow of soil-gas from the soil into the sub-slab gravel by pressurization of the sub-slab region, (2) the reduction of the radon concentration in the soil, and (3) the suppression of diffusion of soil-gas from the soil into the sub-slab gravel by advective flow of air from the gravel bed into the subgravel soil. Numerical modeling demonstrates that placement of a sub-slab gravel layer substantially improves the SSV system performance. Except in the case of highly permeable soils, SSD systems are predicted to perform better than SSP systems. This prediction is consistent with reported field experience. The numerical model is used to elucidate the reasons for this difference in performance.
The Russian health crisis and the economy

Abstract Russia experienced a severe health crisis in the 1990s, as reflected by a drop in life expectancy. It has been suggested in literature that this poor state of health is likely to endure and will significantly retard economic growth in the country. This paper uses evidence from other former Communist countries and studies of income–health relationship across economies to evaluate these claims. It concludes that the mortality increases of 1988–94 and 1999–2000 were the effects, rather than causes, of the economic recession. The state of health is unlikely to put a brake on future economic growth.
Peritumoral tissue compression is predictive of exudate flux in a rat model of cerebral tumor: an MRI study in an embedded tumor.

MRI estimates of extracellular volume and tumor exudate flux in peritumoral tissue are demonstrated in an experimental model of cerebral tumor. Peritumoral extracellular volume predicted the tumor exudate flux. Eighteen RNU athymic rats were inoculated intracerebrally with U251MG tumor cells and studied with dynamic contrast enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) approximately 18 days post implantation. Using a model selection paradigm and a novel application of Patlak and Logan plots to DCE-MRI data, the distribution volume (i.e. tissue porosity) in the leaky rim of the tumor and that in the tissue external to the rim (the outer rim) were estimated, as was the tumor exudate flow from the inner rim of the tumor through the outer rim. Distribution volume in the outer rim was approximately half that of the inner adjacent region (p < 1 × 10(-4)). The distribution volume of the outer ring was significantly correlated (R(2) = 0.9) with tumor exudate flow from the inner rim. Thus, peritumoral extracellular volume predicted the rate of tumor exudate flux. One explanation for these data is that perfusion, i.e. the delivery of blood to the tumor, was regulated by the compression of the mostly normal tissue of the tumor rim, and that the tumor exudate flow was limited by tumor perfusion.
Footprint tracking and recognition using a pressure sensing floor

This paper presents an approach to clustering, tracking and recognizing footprints of a single subject from pressure data obtained using a pressure sensing floor. The proposed method clusters active footprint areas on the floor and recognizes and tracks the footprints according to their 2D shapes and geometrical relationships among foot clusters. Experimental results show the efficacy of the proposed approach.
Wide Bandgap Semiconductor One-Dimensional Nanostructures for Applications in Nanoelectronics and Nanosensors:

Wide bandgap semiconductor ZnO, GaN and InN nanowires have displayed the ability to detect many types of gases and biological and chemical species of interest. In this review, we give some recent e...
Pharmacy students’ perception of the impact of a Facebook-delivered health news service—Two-year analysis

Abstract Objective To evaluate via a survey second-year Doctor of Pharmacy Students’ (P2) attitudes and perceptions of the impact of Facebook-delivered health care news. Methods Two cohorts of students were surveyed to evaluate the use and comfort level of social media prior to the project. Students’ perceptions regarding the Facebook page including interesting topics, news story sources, plans for future use, and value of assignment to professional development was also determined. Results Over two years, 551 students completed the survey. During the project, the students were most interested in posts about newly approved drugs/indications/dosing changes, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recalls, and diet/nutrition. The majority planned to continue following the page after project completion, with half planning to contribute to discussions. Students agreed the project helped them stay current on professional news connecting the class to their professional world. Conclusions This project exposed students to educational application of Facebook and encouraged them to explore and engage with social media as a way to facilitate their early professional development.