cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Teaching and learning recursive programming: a review of the research literature

Hundreds of articles have been published on the topics of teaching and learning recursion, yet fewer than 50 of them have published research results. This article surveys the computing education research literature and presents findings on challenges students encounter in learning recursion, mental models students develop as they learn recursion, and best practices in introducing recursion. Effective strategies for introducing the topic include using different contexts such as recurrence relations, programming examples, fractal images, and a description of how recursive methods are processed using a call stack. Several studies compared the efficacy of introducing iteration before recursion and vice versa. The paper concludes with suggestions for future research into how students learn and understand recursion, including a look at the possible impact of instructor attitude and newer pedagogies.
Hyperconjugative vs. d orbital effects in unsaturated silanes : II. The radical anions of para-silyl-substituted anilines☆

Abstract The radical anions of a series of para -silyl substituted N,N -dimethylanilines; p 0SiH n Me 3− n C 6 H 4 NMe 2 ( n = 0−3) have been studied by electron spin resonance spectroscopy. When n = 0 or 1 the primary radicals may be generated by either electrolytic or metal reduction. For n = 2 or 3 reduction with potassium immediately gives secondary paramagnetic species resulting from loss of hydride from silicon. Primary radicals for the n = 2 or 3 compounds may be obtained electrolytically. The ESR spectra show increasing spin delocalization into the silyl group as n increases, to the point that the spin distribution in the p -SiH 3 compound approaches that of p -nitro- N,N -dimethylaniline radical anion. A tentative analysis of the secondary and tertiary spectra is given. The results, coupled with CNDO/2 calculations for the radical anions, indicate that the primary interaction between silicon and the aromatic system involves the σ * levels of the silyl substituents and the π * orbitals of N,N -dimethylaniline.
Mode locked semiconductor lasers

Mode locked lasers are a compact, inexpensive source of optical pulses. Currently, some problems with semiconductor sources are low output power, self phase modulation, secondary pulse formation, and timing jitter. These problems are addressed here. >
Vaginal Enterocele Repair

Multiple modalities of enterocele repair are available depending on the anatomy, skill and preference of the surgeon, and need for additional abdominal or vaginal procedures. We have described our techniques for vaginal enterocele repair. Isolation and closure of the enterocele sac, along with proper repair of all of the prolapsed segments of the vagina, will result in optimal surgical results for the patient. Routine use of McCall culdoplasty after every hysterectomy would probably decrease the rate of iatrogenic enterocele and vaginal apex prolapse.
Clinical aspects and epidemiology of HPV infections

Abstract Over the past 15 years we have watched the unfolding of an enormous volume of information regarding HPV infections. Elaboration of the incredible genetic diversity of these viruses has been important to the development of laboratory tools for epidemiological investigations and will facilitate the future direction of studies targeting specific molecular mechanisms of disease. Through the use of these laboratory tools, HPV has been determined to be a necessary but not sufficient etiologic agent in the development of cervical cancer and other cancers of the anogenital tract. The duration of incident genital HPV infections has been partially established and this information demonstrates that most detectable HPV infections are transient. Recent observations of a second peak of cervical HPV prevalence in older women suggests the possibility that at least in some women, HPV infections may lay dormant at undetectable levels and subsequently become reactivated. The potential that older women may experience a reactivation of latent HPV infections, which may be accompanied by disease, requires further investigation. Current dogma concerning the long-term natural history of HPV infections awaits clarification by future studies. Furthermore, these future investigations remain important to appropriately characterize molecular processes within the host cell that are critical to the study of specific host immune responses to these infections. Research-grade PCR-based HPV tests continue to be important to ongoing and future epidemiological investigations that will better define HPV incidence at various anatomic sites. Of particular interest will be the elaboration of HPV infections at extragenital sites. In this regard, the potential contribution of HPVs to skin cancer outcomes is likely to become an intensive area of study. The use of HPV assays such as HC2 in large randomized clinical trials has established HPV testing as a viable option in the management of ASCUS Pap smears. Further clinical applications of various types of HPV testing, including applications to routine screening, remain an area of intensive research. In this regard, studies that examine quantities or levels of HPV genomes and specific HPV messages are currently underway. Probably the most exciting clinically relevant development of the past decade has been the implementation of clinical trials for HPV prophylactic vaccines. To date these trials have targeted cervical HPV infections. If prophylactic HPV vaccines can prevent incident HPV infection and CIN, maintenance of long-term vaccine immunity will need to be evaluated and establishment of any potential impact on the incidence of HPV-associated invasive cancers will be determined in one or two decades following widespread implementation. Many individuals and research groups have participated in contributing to understanding the epidemiology of HPV infections. As with the past two decades, future investigations concerning HPV infections will remain an area rich in discovery for all.
Trends in semiconductor packaging, a merchant house view

Semiconductor packaging is being driven in two major directions by the demand for increased system operating speeds and higher functional density. Most prominent is the trend toward higher functional integration on the die, resulting in both a larger die size and decreased feature size. The other major trend is the mechanical integration of multiple devices in a single package. These trends require improved package-design methods that include electrical and thermomechanical modeling, improved data on material properties that drive package reliability, and novel methods of reliability testing to meet the very low defect levels that will be required in next-generation electronic equipment. >
Review of Variable Speed Limits and Advisories

Previous studies on variable speed limits (VSLs) were reviewed. These studies were classified as three types: simulations for algorithm development and evaluations, VSL implementation and field testing, and a combination of VSLs with ramp metering. The review considered strategies and algorithms, targeted traffic improvements (safety, throughput, etc.), applicable traffic conditions, performance evaluations, and simulation or test results and their implications. Most practices in Europe indicated that the use of VSLs was effective in both traffic safety and flow improvement, although the former was more significant. Practices in the United States indicated that safety improvement was significant but the impact on traffic flow was controversial. Practices are summarized, and some new viewpoints and future research directions are presented.
Scintigraphic Evaluation of Clinically Silent Adrenal Masses

UNLABELLED We studied 229 patients with abnormal adrenal anatomy depicted by CT who were without biochemical evidence of endocrine dysfunction using the presence of 131I-6 beta-iodomethyl-nor-cholesterol (NP-59) adrenal gland uptake as an index of differential adrenal function in the evaluation of the clinically "silent" adrenal mass lesion. METHODS NP-59 (1 mCi) was injected intravenously with posterior and lateral abdominal images obtained 5-7 days postinjection. RESULTS One-hundred and fifty-nine of 185 patients with unilateral adrenal enlargement on CT had scintigraphic evidence that the mass represented a functioning (NP-59 avid) but not hypersecretory, (biochemically normal) adrenal cortical adenoma (concordant imaging pattern). Forty-one of 44 patients with intra-adrenal neoplasms were depicted on scintigraphy as decreased or absent NP-59 accumulation on the side of the adrenal mass (discordant imaging pattern). In this study, sensitivity was 71% (41 of 58 patients; 95% confidence interval (CI), 58% to 88%); specificity was 100% (171 of 171 patients; 95% CI, 95% to 100%) and accuracy was 93% (212 of 229 patients; 95% CI, 88% to 96%). CONCLUSIONS These data confirm our earlier observations that the functional information depicted by scintigraphy complements the morphological evaluation by CT and in the absence of hormonal dysfunction, the presence of concordant CT and 131I-NP-59 scans are characteristic of functioning, but not hypersecretory, benign adrenocortical adenomas. Conversely, discordant CT and 131I-NP-59 scans are suggestive of nonfunctioning, space-occupying, adrenal lesions.
Strategic policies and demonstration program of electric vehicle in China

Abstract Recent Chinese economic and energy policies recognize the transportation sector as a key element in the nation's effort to meet its energy and air quality goals. The development of alternative fuel vehicle (AFV) has been considered as a particularly promising strategy. AFV-related policies can be traced back to the eighth Five-Year Plan period (i.e., 1991–1995). All the work during the last twenty years has cumulatively prompted the transition of AFV development from policy-making to actual implementation and from research and development (R&D) to mass production. The year of 2009 is significant for the AFV industry in China in that the central government announced the “Plan on Shaping and Revitalizing the Auto Industry”. This Plan launched a demonstration program of electric vehicle (EV) deployment in 13 Chinese cities and set the national goal of manufacturing 0.5 million AFVs in three years. To better understand the current status, problems and uncertainties existed in the EV deployment in China, this paper reviewed the relevant policies and reported a survey with the pilot cities during the summer of 2009. Based on the survey findings, this paper developed a number of recommendations to help address the issues found in the demonstration program to date.
Towards assessing the aromaticity of the Diels–Alder transition state

Abstract The symmetry of the Diels–Alder transition state depends on the interplay of orbital interactions, aromaticity, which favors a C s structure, and strain, which tends to break symmetry. Twenty Diels–Alder reactions are examined at MP4SDTQ/6-312G(d)//B3LYP/6-31G(d). The substituents utilized are alkyl groups in order to minimize the effect of orbital interactions. The underlying assumptions are examined and appropriate caveats discussed. These computations provide, as a first approximation, an estimate of 10 kcal mol −1 for the aromatic stabilization energy in the Diels–Alder TS.
Generation of straight-line rigid-body displacement using coordinated peaucellier cells

Linkages are presented which generate straight-line motion of a rigid body. Typical mechanisms of this type (e.g. scissors lift or pantograph) have fixed pivots beneath the moving platform. The linkages presented here have remotely located fixed pivots and allow a range of platform motion which extends both above and beneath the line of the fixed pivots. Both exact and approximate solutions are presented, based on the Peaucellier straight-line linkage, and a synthesis example is given.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
A COMPARISON OF METHODS FOR CALCULATING ENERGY RELEASE RATES

Abstract We compare two methods for calculating the energy released during quasi-static crack advance. One method is based on a surface integral (line integral in two dimensions) expression for the energy release rate, whereas the other method is based on a volume (area) integral representation. A concise derivation of the volume (area) integral expression is given using a virtual-work-type identity for Eshelby's energy momentum tensor. The finite-element implementation of the volume (area) integral formulation corresponds to the virtual crack extension method. Within the context of this formulation, we outline a procedure for calculating pointwise values of the energy release rate along a three-dimensional crack front. For illustrative purposes, numerical examples are presented for a fully plastic, plane strain, edge-cracked panel subject to combined tension and bending.
Saponification of wheat straw‐g‐polyacrylonitrile

Wheat straw-g-polyacrylonitrile (PAN), containing 40% PAN, was saponified with sodium hydroxide and isolated under three sets of saponification and work-up conditions. Each reaction mixture was separated into a water-soluble and a water-insoluble fraction, which were individually analyzed for percentages (by weight) of synthetic polymer (saponified PAN), cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. Water solubles amounted to 14–24% of the total product and contained 70–74% synthetic polymer, the remainder being hemicellulose and lignin. Although water-insoluble fractions contained 52–54% saponified PAN, their water absorbencies were low (14–17 g H2O/g polymer). Treatment of these fractions with the enzyme cellulase converted 55–62% of the total cellulose of glucose.
Sedimentary Structures: Mississippi River Deltaic Plain: ABSTRACT

Minor sedimentary structures were studied in cores and exposures from the deltaic and marginal deltaic plains of the Mississippi River. Selected active environments were sampled, and the occurrence of sedimentary structures from each was recorded. Individual structures were found to occur in more than one environment; however, suites of structures were characteristic. Within the study area the following twelve depositional environments have been investigated: shelf, prodelta, delta front (distal bar, distributary mouth bar, channel, and subaqueous levee), subaerial levee, marsh and swamp, interdistributary bay, mudflat, and fresh-water lake. Shelf deposits consisted of: (1) fine-grained clastics, burrowed and showing parallel laminations and (2) marine organic debris. Prodelta deposits are similar to clayey shelf deposits, but contain lenticular and parallel lamination with finely divided plant inclusions. The delta front is a complex of sub-environments constituting the advancing locus of active deposition of the prograding delta. The sloping seaward margin on this zone--the distal bar--exhibits current structures such as trough cross-laminations and current ripples as well as parallel and lenticular laminations, wave ripples, and burrows. The silty and sandy distributary mouth bar is characterized by a variety of small-scale, multi-directional cross-laminations and gas-heave structures. Channel deposits exhibit trough c oss-laminations, scour and fill, and distorted laminations, whereas subaqueous levees contain abundant ripple and unidirectional cross-laminations, parallel, wavy, and distorted laminations. In addition, subaerial levees are burrowed and oxidized. Marsh and swamp deposits are distinguished by abundant plant remains, burrows, and parallel laminations. Lenticular laminations, wave ripples, burrows, shell, and plant remains are characteristic of both interdistributary bay and fresh-water lakes. The mudflat assemblage of structures includes lenticular laminations, current and wave ripples, burrows, and shell remains. Not only are associations of sedimentary structures End_Page 521------------------------------ important in recognizing individual environments of deposition; equally important is the association of the environments to one another. This relationship must be understood for correct paleogeographic reconstruction of ancient deltaic deposits. The manner in which a sequence of marine and deltaic deposits might accumulate in a segment of a basin with resulting stratigraphic relationships of associated environmentally determined facies, is illustrated. End_of_Article - Last_Page 522------------
Development and validation of a quantitative gas chromatography: Mass spectrometry confirmatory method for phenylbutazone in equine plasma

The non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug phenylbutazone is known to have a number of adverse side effects, however, its use in the equine remains widespread. To protect the human consumer, an action level of 50 ng mL−1 in plasma has been agreed by the European Union and regulatory compliance requires a methodology validated to the EU guidelines SANCO/1805/200 revision 6. Accordingly, a GC-MS method has been developed and validated to serve this purpose. The method counters the adverse effects of strong protein binding and the instability of phenylbutazone at low pH. Selected ion monitoring (SIM) allows the acquisition of three diagnostic ions and the use of a deuterated internal standard secures good quantitative performance.
The effect of sepsis on breathing pattern and weaning outcomes in patients recovering from respiratory failure.

Objective To determine the effects of sepsis on breathing pattern and weaning outcome in medical patients recovering from respiratory failure. Design Prospective, observational study. Setting Medical ICU of a 300-bed community teaching hospital. Measurements Patients were classified as having sepsis or not having sepsis on the first day of weaning. The respiratory rate:tidal volume ratio (RVR), maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), respiratory system mechanics, minute volume, WRC count, and maximal temperature (Tmax) were recorded for the first day of weaning. Weaning was then conducted by the patients’ primary physicians; weaning outcomes and days spent receiving mechanical ventilation were recorded. Results Sixty patients were studied over 64 separate ICU admissions. Twenty-five patients met criteria for sepsis and had a higher mean APACHE II (acute physiology and chronic health evaluation) score than patients without sepsis (mean±SE: 23.4±1.3 vs 18.7±1.0; p 2 O; p=0.055). The MIP and RVR were moderately correlated (r=0.50, p Conclusions Patients recovering from sepsis breathe with a higher RVR, tend to have a lower MIP, and tend to be more likely to encounter first-day weaning failure compared to patients without sepsis. Our data also suggest that the severity of illness on ICU admission could explain some of these differences.
A NEW SPECIES OF ELEUTHERODACTYLUS (ANURA: LEPTODACTYLIDAE) FROM THE NORTHWESTERN LOWLANDS OF ECUADOR

A new species of Eleutherodactylus is described from the lowlands of northwestern Ecuador. The new species is a small frog (snout–vent length <23 mm) characterized by: expanded and spadate disc cover on some fingers (usually III and IV) and most toes (usually III–V); bifid palmar tubercle; and brown dorsum with dark brown W-shaped scapular mark. A detailed osteological description of the new species is provided. Some of the osteological characters include relatively large nasals, small sphenethmoid, eight procoelous presacral vertebrae, manus with six carpal elements, and pes with four tarsal elements. A small portion of the frontoparietal fontanelle is exposed between the frontoparietals. Although the new species is small, there is no loss of skull bones and phalangeal elements.
Transitional NPH insulin therapy for critically ill patients receiving continuous enteral nutrition and intravenous regular human insulin.

Background: The intent of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of transitioning from a continuous intravenous (IV) regular human insulin (RHI) or intermittent IV RHI therapy to subcutaneous neutral protamine Hagedorn (NPH) insulin with intermittent corrective IV RHI for critically ill patients receiving continuous enteral nutrition (EN). Methods: Data were obtained from critically ill trauma patients receiving continuous EN during transitional NPH insulin therapy. Target blood glucose concentration (BG) range was 70–149 mg/dL. BG was determined every 1–4 hours. Results: Thirty-two patients were transitioned from a continuous IV RHI infusion (CIT) to NPH with intermittent corrective IV RHI therapy. Thirty-four patients had NPH added to their preexisting supplemental intermittent IV RHI therapy (SIT). BG concentrations were maintained in the target range for 18 ± 3 and 15 ± 4 h/d for the CIT and SIT groups, respectively (P < .05). Thirty-eight percent of patients experienced a BG <60 mg/dL, an...
Large-Scale Assessment, Locally-Developed Measures, and Automated Scoring of Essays: Fishing for Red Herrings?

Abstract Automated Essay Scoring (AES) has garnered a great deal of attention from the rhetoric and composition/writing studies community since the Educational Testing Service began using e-rater® and the Criterion® Online Writing Evaluation Service as products in scoring writing tests, and most of the responses have been negative. While the criticisms leveled at AES are reasonable, the more important, underlying issues relate to the aspects of the writing construct of the tests AES can rate. Because these tests underrepresent the construct as it is understood by the writing community, such tests should not be used in writing assessment, whether for admissions, placement, formative, or achievement testing. Instead of continuing the traditional, large-scale, commercial testing enterprise associated with AES, we should look to well-established, institutionally contextualized forms of assessment as models that yield fuller, richer information about the student's control of the writing construct. Such tests would be more valid, as reliable, and far fairer to the test-takers, whose stakes are often quite high.
Wildfire effects on the properties and microbial community structure of organic horizon soils in the New Jersey Pinelands

Abstract The frequency and intensity of wildfires are expected to increase in the coming years due to the changing climate, particularly in areas of high net primary production. Wildfires represent severe perturbations to terrestrial ecosystems and may have lasting effects. The objective of this study was to characterize the impacts of wildfire on an ecologically and economically important ecosystem by linking soil properties to shifts in microbial community structure in organic horizon soils. The study was conducted after a severe wildfire burned over 7000 ha of the New Jersey Pinelands, a low nutrient system with a historical incidence of fires. Soil properties in burned and non-burned soils were measured periodically up to two years after the fire occurred, in conjunction with molecular analysis of the soil bacterial, fungal and archaeal communities to determine the extent and duration of the ecosystem responses. The results of our study indicate that the wildfire resulted in significant changes in the soil physical and chemical characteristics in the organic horizon, including declines in soil organic matter, moisture content and total Kjeldahl nitrogen. These changes persisted for up to 25 months post-fire and were linked to shifts in the composition of soil bacterial, fungal and archaeal communities in the organic horizon. Of particular interest is the fact that the bacterial, fungal and archaeal communities in the severely burned soils all changed most dramatically during the first year after fire, changed more slowly during the second year after the fire, and were still distinct from communities in the non-burned soils 25 months post-fire. This slow recovery in soil physical, chemical and biological properties could have long term consequences for the soil ecosystem. These results highlight the importance of relating the response of the soil microbial communities to changing soil properties after a naturally occurring wildfire.
Chemical substitution reaction between Cu(II) and Hg(II) and hydrous CdS(s)

Abstract The chemical reaction between hydrous CdS(s) and Cu(II) and Hg(II) were studied by electrophoretic mobility measurements and adsorption experiments. The results show that cation exchange, following readsorption of the released Cd(II) ions onto the freshly-formed CuS(s) and cadmium hydroxide precipitation reactions occur when CdS particles come into contact with these metal ions which have sulfide precipitates less soluble than CdS(s). The effect of organic ligands on the ion exchange reaction, exemplified by EDTA (a strong complexing ligand) and phthalic acid (a weak complexing ligand), was also investigated. Both organic compounds have little effect on the lattice ion exchange reaction unless a large amount of strong complexing agent is present in the system. The dissolution of CdS(s), however, is slightly hindered in the presence of weak complex former such as phthalic acid and greatly enhanced in the presence of strong complex former such EDTA.
Potentiation of rabbit trigeminal responses to capsaicin in a low pH environment.

Abstract The sensitivity of 35 adult rabbit trigeminal ganglion neurons to low pH (pH 6.0), 10 μM capsaicin (CAP) and 10 μM capsaicin at low pH (CAP@pH6.0) was studied using voltage-clamp whole-cell recording techniques. Neurons responded to pH 6.0 with a transient inward current, followed by a more slowlt activating (sustained) net inward current. Responses to capsaicin showed only a sustained current. Capsaicin caused an increase in membrane conductance, whereas responses to low pH were associated with either a net increase or decrease in conductance. A subset of neurons ( n = 14) responded to CAP@pH6.0 with a sustained current which exceeded the sum of the peak sustained currents evoked by CAP and pH 6.0 applied singularly by approximately a factor of 4. The current was associated with a substantial increase in membrane conductance. The present results indicate that, in addition to a direct conductance activating effect, protons have the ability to enhance the current evoked by capsaicin.
A supervised outlier analysis for risk assessment in composite wing structures

Impact damage has been identified as a critical form of defect that constantly threatens the reliability of composite structures, such as those used in aircrafts and naval vessels. Low energy impacts can introduce barely visible damage and cause structural degradation. Therefore, efficient damage detection and risk assessment methods, which can accurately detect, quantify, and localize impact damage in complex composite structures, are required. In this paper a novel damage detection methodology is demonstrated for monitoring and quantifying the impact damage propagation. Statistical outlier analysis, composed of features extracted from the time and frequency domains, are developed. Autoregression with exogenous is used to classify the statistical feature and estimate the structural risk. The developed methodology has been validated using low velocity impact experiments with a sandwich composite wing.
Estimated Generation of Freight Trips Based on Land Use

The effects of land use and business size (quantified as number of employees) on freight trip generation were analyzed. Standard trip generation rates, ordinary least squares, and multiple classification analysis were applied to a New York City data set. Three land use classification codes—the City of New York zoning resolution (NYCZR), the Land-Based Classification Standards (LBCS), and the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) manual—were used. The authors developed models for NYCZR and function and activity of LBCS and used the ITE manual's trip rates. Root mean square error analysis was used to compare the performance of these models. It was found that models for NYCZR and LBCS land use classification codes provide better alternatives to ITE trip rates because they give more accurate estimates of freight trip attraction, cover a wider range of land use classifications, and are exclusively for freight trip attraction.
Sedation and analgesia in acute neurologic disease.

The Joint Commission on Accreditation of HealthcareOrganizations (JCAHO) introduced in 2000 the mandatefor the implementation of standards for pain assessmentand treatment in hospitalized patients [1]. In response,patient management in intensive care units (ICUs) hasemphasized the establishment and improvements in theguidelinesforsedationandanalgesiainthecriticallyill,aswell as minimizing the use of neuromuscular paralysis.Further spurring the interest in ICU sedation have beenstudies documenting that routine assessment of nonpar-alyzedpatientshavingreducedordiscontinuedperiodsofsedation appears to be instrumental in reducing venti-latory time, shortening overall ICU length of stay (LOS),and in the prevention and early intervention of evolvingneurological deterioration [2,3].Not only has this renaissance of encouraging maximalpatientcognitionrequiredamodeofadaptationonthepartofthemedicalandsurgicalintensivistsintheirapproachtosedation,butithasalsoforcedapharmacologicalreappraisalofthemedicationsselected,dosingalgorithms,routesandmodesofadministration,andsedationscalesappropriatefortitration. Both the depths and duration of sedation havecome under criticism, with the emphasis now clearlytowards intermittent periods of arousal and a titrationschemetoaffordtheleastmedicationnecessarytoachievea comfortable and controlled behavioral state.Sedative regimens in a neuroscience ICU by necessityhave been designed to enable the repeated acquisition ofan optimal neurological exam as principle means ofassessing patient status [4]. With respect to bedsideevaluation and titration of sedation, the neurologicallyinjured patient may indeed be the most difﬁcult ICUpopulation to manage. Cognitive dysfunction leads toincreased fear, restlessness and agitation from theinability to understand one’s predicament. Yet evenmodest sedation may mask subtle neurological deteriora-tion. Hence the need for close nursing and physiciansupport and observation, and titrating medications asneeded without impairing neurological evaluation. Suchtenets have now found a broader critical care audience.
25-Hydroxyvitamin D Depletion Does Not Exacerbate MPTP-Induced Dopamine Neuron Damage in Mice

Recent clinical evidence supports a link between 25-hydroxyvitamin D insufficiency (serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels <30 ng/mL) and Parkinson’s disease. To investigate the effect of 25(OH)D depletion on neuronal susceptibility to toxic insult, we induced a state of 25(OH)D deficiency in mice and then challenged them with the dopaminergic neurotoxin 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). We found there was no significant difference between control and 25(OH)D-deficient animals in striatal dopamine levels or dopamine transporter and tyrosine hydroxylase expression after lesioning with MPTP. Additionally, we found no difference in tyrosine hydroxylase expression in the substantia nigra pars compacta. Our data suggest that reducing 25(OH)D serum levels in mice has no effect on the vulnerability of nigral dopaminergic neurons in vivo in this model system of parkinsonism.
Microstructures and properties of in-situ NiAl–Al2O3 functionally gradient composites

Abstract NiAl–Al2O3 functionally gradient composites (FGCs) have been fabricated by reactive hot compaction of Ni and Al powders in which one or both were partially preoxdized. The FGCs consisted of four or five layers with alumina content increasing up to about 35 vol.%. The gradient in the composition was obtained by stacking powder mixtures of desired compositions. It was found that the technique resulted in a gradual transition of the microstructure and microhardness from NiAl to NiAl–35 vol.%Al2O3. In contrast, the NiAl– (NiAl–35 vol.%Al2O3) bilayer compact showed a much steeper microhardness change with pronounced residual stress at the boundary. The FGCs were found to have higher fracture toughness values than the corresponding composites.
Contrasting measures of fitness to classify habitat quality for the black-throated sparrow (Amphispiza bilineata)

Abstract Habitat quality is an important consideration when identifying source and sink habitat and setting priority areas for avian conservation. The problem is that different measures may lead to different conclusions about habitat quality, and may also vary in the resources required to estimate them. Individual level measures, such as nest success, and fecundity, will often identify different high quality habitats than population level measures, such as abundance or the number of fledglings produced per unit area. We tested measures of fitness in the Black-throated Sparrow both at the individual and at the population level for six habitats in the northern Chihuahuan Desert, to explore their value as indicators of habitat quality. We compared clutch size, number of nestlings per nest, number of fledglings per successful nest, nest density, nest success, daily nest survival rate, season-long fecundity, number of fledglings produced per 100 ha, and adult abundance, in each habitat type. We also modeled source–sink dynamics to estimate the scale at which they operate, to infer survival rates, and to ascertain the relative source potential of each habitat. We found that fecundity is the best indicator of individual level habitat quality but a poor indicator of population level habitat quality. Nest success (or fecundity, if resources are available to adequately estimate it) plus nest density provide the most robust indicator of population level habitat quality, which is the level at which priority habitats for conservation should be identified. Mesa grassland and black grama grassland functioned as source habitats most consistently, and mesquite was consistently a sink but also probably a reservoir of individuals available to occupy other habitats.
A closed system fabrication of chromium silicide thin film resistors

A closed system fabrication of small geometry, thin film chromium silicide resistors is described. It offers highly reproducible, low resistance ohmic contacts between the resistor material and the aluminum metallization. The technique is very general and can be used for materials other than CrSi 2 and aluminum. The technique is designed for forming resistors in integrated circuits by adding compatible processing steps to the most widely used integrated circuit processing sequences.
Theories of Muscle Contraction

A survey of the mainstream theories in the modern study of the mechanism of muscle contraction is made, with particular emphasis placed on the experimental results which most influenced the progression of ideas. Starting with early elastic and viscoelastic theories of muscle contraction, a chronological organization is used to present, in detail, the results leading up to the swinging crossbridge model. A brief review is made of the experimental results modifying the original crossbridge model such as transient-state mechanics, in vitro kinetics, and kinetic measurements performed on demembranated muscle fibers. Following a brief synopsis of three of the more prevalent alternative models, a summary of the more relevant structural studies is presented. Finally, recent results pertaining to the mechanism of muscle contraction are presented and their promise for the future is discussed.
Transgenic Approaches to Combat Fusarium Head Blight in Wheat and Barley

of the challenges to achieve successful transformation, prospects for transgene-mediated disease resistance, Fusarium head blight (FHB) and contamination with deoxynivacurrent research on candidate antifungal genes and prolenol (DON) produced by the primary pathogen Fusarium gramimoters, and strategies for optimal antifungal activity. nearum Schwabe [teleomorph Gibberella zeae (Schwein.)] have caused devastating losses to wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), durum (Triticum turgidum L. ssp. durum Desf.Husr.), and barley (Hordeum Transformation Methods vulgare L.) growers across the USA since the early 1990s. Evaluation The first reports of successful production of fertile of barley, wheat, and related germplasm yielded only a few accessions transgenic barley were published in 1994. These experiwith partial resistance. This resistance appears, in most cases, to be ments used particle bombardment (biolistics) to insert under polygenic control, making the development of resistant cultivars the genes into barley tissue (Ritala et al., 1994; Wan with suitable agronomic and quality traits a challenge. The insertion of individual antifungal and antitoxin genes via genetic transforma- and Lemaux, 1994). Since then, a number of laboratories tion has the potential to aid in development of resistant wheat and have reported transformation of barley with selectable barley cultivars. Although wheat and barley transformation has been genes such as bar for resistance to the herbicide bialachieved in several laboratories, the development of a high throughput aphos[L-2-amino-4-((hydroxy)methyl)(phosphinoyl)wheat and barley transformation systems has been slowed by genotype butyryl-L-alanyl-L-alanine], nptII for resistance to the effects on plant regeneration, low transformation efficiencies, so- antibiotics kanamycin and G418, and visual reporter maclonal variation, and problems with transgene inheritance and sta- genes such as uidA for b-glucuronidase (GUS) expresbility of expression. Among the antifungal genes targeted to combat sion, using a variety of target tissues (reviewed by LemFHB are coding sequences for proteins that degrade fungal cell walls,
Predictors of new onset depression in medically ill, disabled older adults at 1 year follow-up.

Objective: Although medical illness and physical disability are strongly associated with depression, the majority of older adults who experience medical illness or disability at any given time are not depressed. The aim of these analyses was to identify risk factors for new onset depression in a sample of medically ill, disabled older adults. Methods: The authors used data from a representative sample of homebound older adults who recently started receiving Medicare home healthcare services for medical or surgical problems (N = 539). The authors report on the rate and baseline predictors of new onset major or minor depression, using Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV), criteria and assessed by the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis I Disorders, at 1-year follow-up. Our analyses were conducted with a subsample of older adults (N = 268) who did not meet criteria for major or minor depression and were not on an antidepressant medication at our baseline interview. Results: At 1-year follow-up, 10% (28/268) of patients met criteria for either major (3%; 9/268) or minor depression (7%; 19/268). In multivariate analyses, the authors found that worse self-rated health (odds ratio [OR] = 0.53, p=0.042), more somatic depressive symptoms (OR = 1.19, p=0.015), greater number of activities of daily living (ADL) limitations at baseline (OR = 1.63, p=0.014), and greater decline in ADL functioning from baseline to 1 year (OR = 1.59, p=0.022) were all independently associated with onset depression. Conclusion: These findings underscore the significant fluctuations in both depression and disability in high-risk older adults and suggest that both persistent and new onset disability increase the risk of depression. They may also help in designing preventive strategies to promote the ongoing good mental health of these high-risk patients over time.
Hydrogen addition to the Andrussow process for HCN synthesis

Abstract The effect of hydrogen addition on HCN production by the ammoxidation of methane over Pt–Rh gauze catalyst has been examined. Upon adding small amounts of H2, the HCN selectivity increased from ∼74 to 82% on NH3 basis at 35% N2 dilution and (CH4+NH3)/O2=2, while selectivities on CH4 basis were nearly unchanged. Using air instead of oxygen, the HCN selectivity increased from 76 to 86%. However, the increase in HCN selectivity with H2 addition was accompanied by a decrease in the NH3 conversion. H2 addition with different (CH4+NH3)/O2 and CH4/NH3 ratios and with preheating of feed gases has also been investigated. The H2 produced was observed to be greater than that fed for all conditions, so that with recycle the process would require no additional source of H2. Experimental results obtained here can be qualitatively explained on the basis of a surface reaction model for Andrussow reactor described previously.
Long-Term Survival for Patients With Acute Decompensated Heart Failure According to Ejection Fraction Findings

Limited data exist about the long-term prognosis of patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) further stratified according to ejection fraction (EF) findings. The primary objective of this population-based observational study was to characterize and compare trends in long-term prognosis after an episode of ADHF across 3 EF strata. Hospital medical records were reviewed for 3,604 residents of the Worcester, Massachusetts, metropolitan area who were discharged after ADHF from all 11 medical centers in central Massachusetts during 1995, 2000, 2002, and 2004 and had EF measurements during their index hospitalizations. The average age of this population was 75 years, most were white, and 44% were men. Approximately 49% of the population had heart failure (HF) with preserved EF (EF ≥50%), 37% had HF with reduced EF (EF ≤40%), and 14% had HF with borderline EF (EF 41% to 49%). Patients with HF with preserved EF experienced higher postdischarge survival rates than patients with either HF with reduced EF or HF with borderline EF at 1, 2, and 5 years after discharge from all central Massachusetts medical centers. Although prognosis at 1 year after hospital discharge improved for all patient groups during the years under study, especially for those with HF with reduced EF and HF with preserved EF, these encouraging trends decreased with increasing duration of follow-up. In conclusion, although improvements in 1-year postdischarge survival were observed for patients in each of the 3 EF groups examined to varying degrees, the postdischarge prognosis of all patients with ADHF remains guarded.
Pain Management for the Obese Sleep Apnea Patient Insights for ICU Practitioners

Currently, one third of the US adult population is considered obese. As such, obese patients are a rapidly growing population of patients being admitted to ICU. The problems in managing pain for these patients, primarily perioperative and hospital-associated respiratory depression, are becoming increasingly apparent. New approaches for pain management are intended to minimize the life-threatening side effects of traditional pain control drugs (opioids) and to increase the therapeutic options with nonopioid agents. This article (a) reviews the pathophysiology of obstructive sleep apnea and other related sleep apnea syndromes, (b) describes risk factors for perioperative and hospital-associated respiratory depression, (c) reviews other significant side effects of opioid analgesic agents, and finally (d) summarizes the emerging consensus for the use of multimodal analgesia for managing pain in obese patients with obstructive sleep apnea.
Schistosoma mansoni: Adult worm chemoattraction with barriers of specific molecular weight exclusions

Chemoattraction studies were done with Schistosoma mansoni adults from mice. To test for attraction or repulsion, some worm pairs were separated mechanically and the individuals placed in polycarbonate chambers. Experiments were done at 37 C and chambers contained dialysis tube chimneys. In all cases, heterosexual attraction occurred when one worm, but not two worms, were placed in the chimneys. Unperforated chimneys with specific molecular weight (Mr) exclusions were compared with perforated chimneys to study heterosexual attraction. Attraction was similar in designs using perforated chimneys and those with 50,000 and 12,000 Mr exclusions, but none was seen in chimney designs with 1000 Mr exclusions.
Drug-Eluting Stents: the Past, Present, and Future

Since the advent of percutaneous coronary intervention, enormous advances have been made in the treatment of coronary artery disease. Angioplasty and bare metal stents were plagued by high rates of restenosis leading to repeat revascularization procedures. Examination of the underlying pathophysiology of restenosis led to the development of drug-eluting stents to reduce neointimal hyperplasia. However, as restenosis rates declined, length of dual antiplatelet therapy use and risk of long-term stent thrombosis associated with drug-eluting stents increased. Subsequent generations have improved each facet of stent design. Novel alloys maintain durability and reduce strut thickness to increase deliverability, biocompatible polymers decrease the inflammatory response and improve drug elution kinetics, and new generations of drugs predictably inhibit restenosis. Developments on the horizon include stents with bioabsorbable polymers and platforms. The purpose of this review is to assess the evolution of stent design and the evidence behind each generation and to peer into the future of stent technology.
How child maltreatment affects dimensions of juvenile delinquency in a cohort of low-income urban youths

This study examines how the presence and types of maltreatment affect dimensions of delinquency and whether the relationship is maintained in the presence of sociodemographic factors. A prospective comparison-group design was employed, featuring controls on social class, race, gender, age, and urban residence. A cohort of 632 males from low-income families, living in one of Pennsylvania's largest cities, was tracked through the state's child welfare and juvenile justice systems. Results indicate that the presence of maltreatment significantly affected the initiation and continuation of delinquency. Neglect was found to be a highly criminogenic factor. Race was not associated with maltreatment nor with delinquency.
Experimentally determined mineral/melt partitioning of first-row transition elements (FRTE) during partial melting of peridotite at 3 GPa

Abstract Ratios of first-row transition elements (FRTE), such as Fe/Mn and Zn/Fe, may be fractionated differently by partial melting of peridotite than by partial melting of recycled lithologies like eclogite, and therefore may be useful as indicators of the source lithologies of mantle-derived basalts. Interpretation of basalt source lithologies from FRTE ratios requires accurate assessment of FRTE partitioning behavior between peridotitic minerals and coexisting melts. We present experimental determinations of partition coefficients for several of the FRTE (Sc, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Zn) and Ga and Ge between basaltic melt and olivine, garnet, pyroxenes, and spinel at 3 GPa. Because mineral/melt partitioning is sensitive to phase compositions, a key feature of these experiments is that the melts and minerals are known from previous experiments to be in equilibrium at the solidus of garnet peridotite at 3 GPa. Therefore, these partition coefficients are directly applicable to near-solidus partial melting of the mantle at 3 GPa. We use these partition coefficients to calculate compositions of model partial melts of peridotite and compare these to natural OIB. Model partial melts of peridotite have lower Fe/Mn ( 7 * 10−4) than many primitive OIB, which implies that some other source lithology participates in the formation of many OIB. Alternatively, these ratios may potentially be produced by garnet peridotite if the source contains ∼0.3% Fe2O3, consistent with observations from continental xenoliths. Zn/Fe is a less sensitive indicator of non-peridotite source lithology than either Fe/Mn or Co/Fe, as Zn/Fe in partial melts of peridotite overlaps with >75% of primitive OIB. Ga and Sc are fractionated significantly by residual garnet, and high Ga/Sc may indicate the presence of garnet in basalt source regions. When taking into account several FRTE ratios simultaneously, few OIB appear to be consistent with derivation solely from a reduced peridotitic source. The source either must have a modest non-peridotitic component, be Fe-enriched, or be slightly oxidized.