cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The role of settlement in structuring a hard-substratum community in the deep sea

Abstract Larval settlement can play an important role in the structure of benthic communities in shallow-water habitats. Experimental studies of settlement and colonization in the deep sea, however, are few, and have concentrated exclusively on sedimentary habitats. Results are presented here from an in situ study designed to determine whether larval settlement patterns on a common, deep-sea hard substratum (manganese nodules) determine the subsequent structure of the epifaunal community. In a 7-wk deployment at a depth of 1240 m, settlement onto manganese nodules resting on the sediment in a relatively “low-flow” environment was significantly greater than onto nodules suspended in a “higher-flow” regime. After 2 yr, this difference in total number of individuals was no longer significant, but a new pattern in community composition emerged, which correlated to the presumed supply of paniculate food. Suspension-feeders dominated the elevated nodules (correlating to higher horizontal participate fluxes) and deposit-feeders dominated the nodules sitting on the sediment (correlating to higher particulate deposition). The faunal settlement patterns observed after 7 wk, therefore, appear to be altered by adult feeding requirements of the component species.
A linear-in-dB analog baseband circuit for low power 60GHz receiver in standard 65nm CMOS

This paper presents an analog baseband (ABB) circuit for low power 60 GHz wireless receiver in standard 65 nm CMOS. The proposed analog baseband system combines variable gain amplifiers (VGA) with a 3rd-order type II Chebyshev filter and provides linear steps as well as filter tuning range to achieve sufficient out-of-band rejection. The ABB demonstrates 2 dB gain step tuning range from 3 - 31 dB, 3-dB bandwidth of 980 MHz, OP1dB of 0dBm, and noise figure of 6 dB to 21 dB. The ABB consumes 48 mW at max gain setting and 32 mW at minimum gain setting from a 1.1 V supply. The entire ABB occupies an area of 1.1 mm2 with active area of 0.2 mm2.
The role of angiotensin II in stress urinary incontinence: A rat model.

Aims Pharmacological treatment for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is limited to the use of non-selective alpha-agonists, which are often ineffective. Non-adrenergic mechanisms have also been implicated in urethral closure, including angiotensin II (Ang-II), which has been demonstrated throughout the urinary tract. We investigate the role of Ang-II in urethral tone in a rat model of SUI. Methods Abdominal leak point pressure (ALPP) and retrograde urethral pressure profilometry (RLPP) were measured in 70 female virgin rats. Thirty rats underwent pudendal nerve injury (PNT), 30 had circumferential urethrolysis (U-Lys), and 10 had sham surgery. Rats received daily doses of Angiotensin Type 1 (AT-1) receptor inhibitor (20 mg/kg), Angiotensin Type 2 (AT-2) receptor antagonist (10 mg/kg), or Ang-II (2 mg/kg). Results Following U-Lys, RLPP and ALPP decreased from 21.4 ± 2.0 and 39.2 ± 3.3 mm Hg, to 13.1 ± 1.5 and 21.6 ± 1.9 mmHg, respectively (P<0.01). After PNT, RLPP, and ALPP decreased from 21.0 ± 1.6 and 41.9 ± 3.0 mmHg to 13.1 ± 1.5 and 24.7 ± 3.3 mmHg, respectively (P<0.01). AT-1 inhibitor caused significant decrease in RLPP and ALPP from 21.0 ± 6.2 and 41.8 ± 9.4 mmHg, to 12.0 ± 3.8 and 25.6 ± 6.6 mmHg, respectively (P<0.01). Likewise, AT-2 treatment reduced RLPP and ALPP from 21.4 ± 6.3 and 40.1 ± 1.7 mmHg, to 13.5 ± 5.7 and 31.0 ± 7.2 mmHg, respectively (P<0.01). Following surgery, Ang-II administration restored RLPP and ALPP to baseline presurgical values. Conclusions AT-1 and AT-2 receptor inhibition significantly lowers urethral resistance, comparable to either neurogenic or urethrolytic injury. Ang-II treatment restored urethral tone in rats with intrinsic sphincter dysfunction. Ang II appears to serve a functional role in the maintenance of urethral tone and stress continence. Neurourol. Urodynam. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Trends and Clustering of Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in American Adolescents From 1999 to 2008

Abstract Aim To characterize trends and clustering of cardiometabolic risk factors in 12–17-year-old non-Hispanic white, non-Hispanic black (NHB), Mexican-American (MA), and multiracial American (MRA) adolescents. Methods Data from the 1999–2000 to 2007–2008 U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys were used for this investigation. Clustering of cardiometabolic risk factors was determined using cardiometabolic risk factor clustering score (cMetS) computed by aggregating z scores of mean arterial blood pressure, triglycerides, fasting blood glucose, waist circumference, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Results There were significant increases in waist circumference and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and decreases in low density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and mean arterial blood pressure in the 10-year period between 1999–2000 and 2007–2008. There were gender and racial/ethnic differences in cMetS, with NHB having a more favorable cMetS for each studied time point. Overall, cMetS decreased by 93% in the 10-year period between 1999–2000 and 2007–2008. cMetS decreased by 98% and 77.3% for male and female adolescents, respectively, in the period between 1999–2000 and 2007–2008. With the exception of Mexican-American and multiracial American female adolescents, all racial/ethnic groups had improved cMetS values on comparing mean cMetS values of 1999–2000 with mean values of 2007–2008. Compared with other racial/ethnic groups, NHB male and female adolescents had the most improved cMetS. Conclusion Because clustering of cardiometabolic risk factors is predictive of adult health status, early lifestyle intervention in adolescence may help slow down the progress and delay or prevent the onset of cardiovascular diseases in adulthood.
Gate-level characterization: foundations and hardware security applications

Gate-level characterization (GLC) is the process of characterizing each gate of an integrated circuit (IC) in terms of its physical and manifestation properties. It is a key step in the IC applications regarding cryptography, security, and digital rights management. However, GLC is challenging due to the existence of manufacturing variability (MV) and the strong correlations among some gates in the circuit. We propose a new solution for GLC by using thermal conditioning techniques. In particular, we apply thermal control on the process of GLC, which breaks the correlations by imposing extra variations concerning gate level leakage power. The scaling factors of all the gates can be characterized by solving a system of linear equations using linear programming (LP). Based on the obtained gate level scaling factors, we demonstrate an application of GLC, hardware Trojan horse (HTH) detection, by using constraint manipulation. We evaluate our approach of GLC and HTH detection on several ISCAS85/89 benchmarks. The simulation results show that our thermally conditioned GLC approach is capable of characterizing all the gates with an average error less than the measurement error, and we can detect HTHs with 100% accuracy on a target circuit.
Interactions among host diet, nutritional status and gastrointestinal parasite infection in wild bovids

Abstract In this study, I explored the interactions among host diet, nutritional status and gastrointestinal parasitism in wild bovids by examining temporal patterns of nematode faecal egg shedding in species with different diet types during a drought and non-drought year. Study species included three grass and roughage feeders (buffalo, hartebeest, waterbuck), four mixed or intermediate feeders (eland, Grant's gazelle, impala, Thomson's gazelle) and two concentrate selectors (dik-dik, klipspringer). Six out of the nine focal species had higher mean faecal egg counts in the drought year compared to the normal year, and over the course of the dry year, monthly faecal egg counts were correlated with drought intensity in four species with low-quality diets, but no such relationship was found for species with high-quality diets. Comparisons of dietary crude protein and faecal egg count in impala showed that during the dry season, individuals with high faecal egg counts (≥1550 eggs/g of faeces) had significantly lower crude protein levels than individuals with low (0–500 eggs/g) or moderate (550–1500 eggs/g) egg counts. These results suggest that under drought conditions, species unable to maintain adequate nutrition, mainly low-quality feeders, are less able to cope with gastrointestinal parasite infections. In particular, during dry periods, reduced protein intake seems to be associated with declining resilience and resistance to infection.
Adequate Yearly Progress for Students With Emotional and Behavioral Disorders Through Research-Based Practices

Because schools are held accountable for the academic performance of all students, it is important to focus on academics and the need for effective teaching practices. Adequate yearly progress, a method of accountability that is part of the No Child Left Behind Act (2001), profoundly affects the education of students who have emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD). These students, who typically and consistently perform below grade level, are, or soon will be, tested on grade level across content-area courses. The authors conducted a review of academic interventions for students with EBD to broaden the impact of research by developing a list of instructional interventions that researchers have demonstrated to be effective in improving academic performance of students with EBD.
Gladiolus plants transformed with single-chain variable fragment antibodies to Cucumber mosaic virus

Plants of Gladiolus ‘Peter Pears’ or ‘Jenny Lee’ were transformed with single-chain variable fragments (scFv) to Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) subgroup I or II. The CMV subgroup I heavy and light chain scFv fragments were placed under control of either the duplicated CaMV 35S or sugarcane Ubi9 promoters. Integration of the transgenes was verified by Southern hybridization. Plants were challenged in vitro by inoculating with purified CMV using the Helios hand-held gene gun. An initial pathogen challenge was performed using six plants/plant line for the 51 lines containing the CMV subgroup I and 37 lines with the CMV subgroup II scFv fragments. Four plant lines with the CMV subgroup I scFv and four lines with the CMV subgroup II scFv were selected for further challenging. Less than 30% of the plants challenged from two plant lines with the CMV subgroup I scFv and three plant lines with the CMV subgroup II scFv contained CMV as compared to 70% for the non-transformed control plants. Less than 40% of the plants from two other plant lines with the CMV subgroup I scFv contained CMV 1–2 months after challenge. These eight plant lines that showed resistance and two susceptible lines expressed the transgene as determined by Northern hybridization and reverse transcriptase PCR.
Self-Consciousness and Speed of Processing Self-Relevant Information

The present study investigated relationships between the Self-Consciousness Scale and the amount of time required to report the self-relevance of groups of socially desirable and socially undesirable trait terms. As predicted, Social Anxiety was significantly related to time required to process both socially desirable and socially undesirable terms. Private Self-Consciousness was significantly related to response time to the socially undesirable traits but not the socially desirable terms. No significant results were found for Public Self-Consciousness. The significant relationships involving Social Anxiety were discussed in terms of concern for the social implications of self-ascription.
Finite Differencing of Computable Expressions

Finite differencing is a program optimization method that generalizes strength reduction, and provides an efficient implementation for a host of program transformations including "iterator inversion." Finite differencing is formally specified in terms of more basic transformations shown to preserve program semantics. Estimates of the speedup that the technique yields are given. A full illustrative example of algorithm derivation is presented.
Synthesis and biochemical properties of an 125I-labelled ryanodine derivative

The synthesis of a novel radioiodinated ryanodine-O10eq-N-acylamino acylate along with biological data are reported. The affinity of the iodinated product, 7, was comparable to ryanodine, 7.97 nM and 6.47 nM, respectively. Conversion of the non-radioactive iodinated ryanodine analog to the [125I] isotope was accomplished by conversion of 7 to the trimethyltin derivative followed by [125I] exchange using chloramine-T in organic solvent. The radioiodinated ryanodine analog, 9, bound to cardiac membrane preparations in a protein dependent and saturable manner indicating that this analog may represent a useful new tool for the study of ryanodine receptors and that modifications about the C-10 hydroxy group of ryanodine may be carried out without loss in biological activity.
A Comparative Analysis of Text and Music and Gender and Audience in Duke Bluebeard's Castle

Andrea Fabry discusses in her article, "A Comparative Analysis of Text and Music and Gender and Audience in Duke Bluebeard's Castle," the image of Bluebeard as a metaphor for gender relations. Bela Bartok's opera and its libretto represent a prime example of the metaphor that in turn can be found in a range of text types, from fairy tales through novels to films. In the article, Fabry analyzes Bartok's contribution to the metaphor, namely with his opera, Duke Bluebeard's Castle. She relates the opera to the text of the opera's libretto, written by film theoretician Bela Balazs, and places her analysis in the larger historical framework of audience research in modernity. The analysis reveals that in a pronounced misogynistic artistic climate of the time and working from a libretto whose tragic ending denies transcendence to the female character of the opera, Bartok's opera can be understood as the representation of simplistic domesticity where the real story remains un-mediated and unnarrated. Andrea Fabry, "A Comparative Analysis of Text and Music and Gender and Audience in Duke Bluebeard's Castle" page 2 of 8 CLCWeb: Comparative Literature and Culture 1.4 (1999):
Current-driven magnetic switching in manganite trilayer junctions

Abstract A current-driven switching of magnetic state is observed in manganite trilayer junctions. The switching current threshold I c depends on applied magnetic field. The switching is due to the transfer of spin-momentum from spin-polarized carriers to a ferromagnetic cluster situated between the electrodes. A model developed based on the spin-momentum transfer process quantitatively describes the experimental observation.
NetWorked learning systems

New network-based learning systems are coming into use that offer the possibility of integrating curriculum support systems with student information systems as well as changing the metaphor of the Internet from library to workspace. We call these integrated and process-oriented systems Networked Learning Systems (NLS). An NLS is tentatively defined as a program or set of programs designed to operate over a network and support users as they undertake tasks or participate in processes related to learning. Computer Supported Collaborated Learning (CSCL) is one important type of process that can be enabled by NLS. Schools already have begun to adopt NLS. To adequately support CSCL in schools, it is necessary to understand the types and dimensions of networked learning systems currently available. This poster describes in detail one networked learning system, Shadow netWorkspace™ (SNS) (http://sns.internetschools.org), and highlights several other available networked learning systems.
Ferromagnetic Resonance in Metal Single Crystals

Microwave susceptibility expressions for ferromagnetic resonance have been derived for metal single crystals possessing crystalline anisotropy. Crystals of uniaxial and cubic magnetic symmetry are considered. When the magnetization M is aligned with the applied field H, the results are equivalent to those of Kittel. When a simple multidomain structure occurs on a crystal face, two resonances are found for a given $H$. These correspond to microwave excitation being perpendicular or parallel to H. These multidomain resonances are related to $H$, saturation magnetization $M$, anisotropy parameter $\frac{K}{M}$, and the ratio of skindepth to domain width. Thus domain spacings can be inferred from microwave measurements. In particular, predictions of the theory are compared with the microwave measurements of Kip and Arnold and magnetic domain pattern observations in the literature. Secondary resonances found in Ni by Reich can also be attributed to a multidomain structure.
Fraction of excited-state oxygen formed as b 1Σg+ in solution-phase-photosensitized reactions II. Effects of sensitizer substituent

Abstract The fraction F Σ of excited-state oxygen formed as b 1 Σ g + was determined for a series of triplet-state photosensitizers in CCl 4 solutions. F Σ was determined by monitoring the intensities of (a) O 2 (b 1 Σ g + ) fluorescence at 1926 nm (O 2 (b 1 Σ g + )→O 2 (a 1 Δ g ) and (b) O 2 (a 1 Δ g ) phosphorescence at 1270 nm (O 2 (a 1 Δ g ) → O 2 (X 3 Σ g − )). Oxygen excited states were formed by energy transfer from substituted benzophenones and acetophenones. The data indicate that F Σ depends on several variables including the orbital configuration of the lowest triplet state and the triplet-state energy. The available data indicate that the sensitizer-oxygen charge transfer (CT) state is not likely to influence F Σ strongly by CT-mediated mixing of various sensitizer-oxygen states.
Defects in the opioid growth factor receptor in human squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.

BACKGROUND The endogenous opioid peptide, [Met5]-enkephalin, termed opioid growth factor (OGF), interacts with its receptor (OGFr) to play a role as a constitutively expressed inhibitory growth factor in the proliferation of epithelial cells. This study compared protein and gene expression of OGFr in surgical specimens of human squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) with normal epithelium. METHODS Tissues from 64 patients with SCCHN and from 49 patients undergoing uvulapalatoplasty or tonsillectomy were utilized. Binding affinity and capacity were assessed by receptor binding assays and the levels of OGFr protein were determined by quantitative Western blot analysis. Immunohistochemistry assessed the presence and distribution of OGFr. Levels of OGFr mRNA were quantitated by Northern blot analysis. Protein and gene expressions of OGFr also were evaluated in the margins of SCCHN. RESULTS Binding analyses indicated nearly ninefold fewer OGFr binding sites in tumor tissue in comparison with normal samples. The OGFr protein levels were reduced fivefold in tumor tissues relative to normal epithelium. Values of OGFr mRNA were comparable in tumors and normal epithelium. Tumor margins had intermediate levels of protein and binding, but OGFr mRNA values were similar to those of normal specimens. CONCLUSIONS These data demonstrate that OGFr is defective in SCCHN and that translation/posttranslation of OGFr protein, but not transcriptional levels of the OGFr gene, is involved. In addition, the attenuated levels of OGFr binding capacity may serve as a marker for SCCHN. These subnormal levels of OGFr may be responsible in part for tumor progression, diminishing the interaction of OGF with OGFr that aids in stabilizing cell replication by an inhibitory mechanism. Gene therapy to reinstate OGFr and/or function could provide a useful treatment for inhibiting tumor progression. Cancer 2003;97:1701–10. © 2003 American Cancer Society. DOI 10.1002/cncr.11237
Development of novel process for Ru CMP using ceric ammonium nitrate (CAN)-containing nitric acid

Abstract In the present study, electrochemical and surface analytical techniques were employed to study the mechanism of chemical mechanical planarisation (CMP) process for highly inert noble ruthenium (Ru) film in ceric ammonium nitrate (CAN) additives-containing acidic slurry. The steady-state polarisation curves with surface abrasion exhibited increment in the corrosion potential and cathodic current, suggesting that the partially exposed bare Ru acts as a cathodic site for CAN reduction on Ru2O3-covered Ru film as validated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Based upon the combined results of open-circuit potential (OCP) and anodic current transients, with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), we may assert that the mechanical removal of Ru2O3 enhances the local formation rate of RuO2 or RuO4 film, resulting in a loss of Ru by successive galvanic corrosion at the anodic sites. Using CAN-containing acidic slurry, Ru CMP process for manufacturing a bottom electrode for capacitors in DRAM device was satisfactorily accomplished as validated by SEM and atomic force microscopy (AFM).
Imposing parameter inequality restrictions using the principle of maximum entropy

In this paper, we propose a new way to impose parameter inequality constraints in a linear regression model using the principle of maximum entropy. We describe the generalized maximum entropy (GME) estimator and develop a method for imposing parameter inequality restrictions through the traditional GME parameter support matrix. In addition, we develop a more general parameter support matrix that allows us to impose a broader set of restrictions than is possible under the traditional formulation.
Stiffness regulation and muscle-recruitment strategies of the shoulder in response to external rotation perturbations.

Background: The complex interactions between capsuloligamentous structures and muscle-recruitment strategies that maintain glenohumeral stability remain unclear. The purposes of the present study were to determine whether stiffness regulation and muscle-activation strategies differed under varying joint positions and levels of contraction in the shoulder and to determine the relationship between generalized joint laxity, glenohumeral joint laxity, and joint stiffness. Methods: Forty healthy, physically active subjects with a mean age (and standard deviation) of 25.2 ± 4.6 years, a mean height of 174.7 ± 6.7 cm, and a mean mass of 73.1 ± 13.8 kg were tested. Shoulder stiffness and the activation of muscles (including the rotator cuff and the anterior deltoid) were measured at two levels of internal rotation torque (0% and 50% of maximum) and two joint positions (0° and 90% of maximum external rotation) before and after a 5° external rotation perturbation. Generalized laxity and glenohumeral joint laxity (in the anterior, posterior, and inferior directions) were also assessed. Results: Stiffness was 77% greater at 50% of maximum internal rotation torque than at 0% of maximum internal rotation torque (p < 0.001) but was not significantly different between joint positions (p = 0.73). From 0% to 50% of maximum internal rotation torque, preparatory and reactive recruitment of the subscapularis increased significantly more (p < 0.05) than those of the other muscles. Also, subscapularis preparatory activity was 36% greater in 0° of external rotation than in 90% of maximum external rotation (p < 0.01). Generalized joint laxity (as indicated by a score of ≥4) was present in 20% of the subjects. Glenohumeral joint laxity (as indicated by a grade of ≥2) was present in the anterior, posterior, and inferior directions in 13%, 15%, and 15% of the subjects, respectively. No correlation existed between passive stiffness and generalized or glenohumeral laxity (r = −0.12 to 0.29; p = 0.08 to 0.48). Conclusions: Moderate levels of muscle contraction can significantly increase glenohumeral joint stiffness and stability. Preactivation of the subscapularis appears to be the primary dynamic stabilizer with the arm in 0° of external rotation. However, with the arm in 90% of maximum external rotation (the apprehension position), less subscapularis activity is observed and the maintenance of stability may shift toward other musculoskeletal structures because joint stiffness does not change. A relationship between generalized joint laxity, glenohumeral laxity, and stiffness was not observed in healthy subjects. Clinical Relevance: Clinically, healthy populations have comparable levels of stiffness, or joint stability, in 0° of external rotation and in 90% of maximum external rotation (the apprehension position).
Does Having a Computerized Prosthetic Knee Influence Cognitive Performance During Amputee Walking

Abstract Williams RM, Turner AP, Orendurff M, Segal AD, Klute GK, Pecoraro J, Czerniecki J. Does having a computerized prosthetic knee influence cognitive performance during amputee walking? Objective To compare objective cognitive performance and perception of cognitive burden during walking tasks using 2 different prosthetic knees: a computerized hydraulic knee (Otto Bock C-leg) and a noncomputerized hydraulic knee (Ossur Mauch SNS). Design Two-group crossover trial, with participants randomly assigned to order of prosthesis. Participants completed assessments under 2 conditions, a self-selected speed walk and a controlled speed walk, on 2 separate occasions (precrossover, postcrossover). Setting Veterans Health Administration hospital. Participants Eight transfemoral amputees. Intervention Computerized versus noncomputerized prosthetic knee. Main Outcome Measures Objective cognitive performance measures included verbal fluency (Controlled Oral Word Association Test, Category Test), attention and working memory (serial subtraction), and walking speed during cognitive tasks. Measures of perceived cognitive burden included subjective attentional requirements of walking and cognitive tasks and subjective general cognitive burden of prosthesis. Results There were no significant differences in objective cognitive performance on any task between prostheses, nor did walking speed vary by prosthesis during the free-speed walk. Participants reported that walking required less attention while wearing the C-leg and that the C-leg was less of a cognitive burden than the noncomputerized prosthesis. Conclusions In nondemanding walking conditions with experienced amputees, participants reported that the more costly C-leg required less cognitive attention than the noncomputerized knee. However, this subjective experience did not translate to improved performance on neuropsychologic screening instruments or on walking speed. Noncomputerized prostheses may be adequate for a majority of amputees, and further research is needed to identify particular groups of amputees (ie, new amputees, amputees with complex physical or cognitive demands) who may benefit from computerized prostheses.
Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma: Many Treatment Options, One Patient

There has been a recent expansion of therapeutic options in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) targeted at the vascular endothelial growth factor and mammalian target of rapamycin pathways, which are fundamental to the biology of RCC. These treatment options have similarities in antitumor effect but also important differences in regards to clinical effects, toxicity and patient populations in which they have been investigated. Further, issues regarding the role of debulking nephrectomy, timing of therapy, and appropriate sequencing of agents have emerged as clinically relevant. There are thus potentially many different treatment approaches to each metastatic RCC patient. This review discusses how to integrate the available data regarding targeted therapy in metastatic RCC into personalized cancer care.
Comparison of calculated and experimental angle-resolved photoemission spectra from Cu

Experimental angle-resolved photoemission spectra obtained from a Cu(111) surface for $11.8\ensuremath{\le}\ensuremath{\hbar}\ensuremath{\omega}\ensuremath{\le}21.2$ eV are analyzed by comparing them with spectra calculated with the parametrized scheme presented in the preceding paper. It is found that the final state can be described in terms of bands with free-electron-like, rather than bulklike, $E$-versus-$\stackrel{\ensuremath{\rightarrow}}{\mathrm{k}}$ dispersions; that the effective inner potential used to calculate these bands can vary with the final-state energy $E$ and emission direction $\stackrel{^}{R}$; that the final state can consist of a mixture of up to several free-electron-like bands; and that momentum broadening can strongly influence peak shapes and positions. The usefulness of the scheme for determining initial-state band positions is demonstrated. It is found that the Fresnel equations are adequate for describing the electric field of the incident light within the solid.
Assessing the formation of misconceptions when students learn PV using current curricular tools

The purpose of this work is to discover the misconceptions students have related to PV content, in light of the way in which the content is portrayed curricular tools, namely through simulations. Undergraduate students were recruited from their first circuits courses (N=20) to participate in this study. Participants in the study were presented with PV related content displayed through a simulation previously developed by the PVCDROM. They observed these simulations and were asked associated questions, questions designed to uncover their misconceptions formed as a result of engaging with these simulations. Findings indicate that students hold misconceptions related to both of the simulations utilized; diffusion and drift. The results of this study indicate a need to conduct a deeper level of analysis of the participants' responses, which could potentially provide future evidence related to misconception formation as a result of how simulations related to drift and diffusion are presented using curricular tools. Diffusion and drift should be presented such that it discourages the formation of misconceptions, and ultimately removes barriers to learning PV.
Pediatric emergency department utilization in the 1970s

Abstract An analysis was undertaken of 8.470 visits to a pediatric emergency department (ED) over a three-month period during 1975–1976. The ED was busiest in the evening and on weekends. Visits were overwhelmingly for acute conditions, which varied seasonally. Very young children accounted for a large proportion of visits (22.3%
New Approaches for Dynamic Simulations of Implicit Solvent Coarse-Grained Models of Lipid Bilayer Membranes

To access length and time scales relevant to biological systems, many coarse-grained models have been developed for lipid bilayer membranes by coarse-graining the lipid and protein degrees of freedom and by treating implicitly the solvent. These reduced descriptions have been successful in elucidating many equilibrium properties of lipid bilayers and protein inclusions, such implicit solvent models are of limited use for dynamical studies. To extend implicit solvent models, we present new approaches that introduce effective kinetic descriptions of the solvent through the use of fluctuating hydrodynamics. For dynamic coarse-grained molecular simulations, we present a new thermostat that uses exchange of energy and momentum with hydrodynamic degrees of freedom. We then present a dynamic coarse-grained model for lipid bilayer membranes parameterized to have bending elasticity, compression moduli, and shear viscosity comparable to experimentally studied bilayers. The importance of hydrodynamics is shown in dynamic studies of the dispersion relation of membrane undulations and the mobility of bilayer inclusions. We also discuss our package for LAMMPS.View Large Image | View Hi-Res Image | Download PowerPoint Slide
Surface plasmon polariton analogues of volume electromagnetic wave effects

We present our recent theoretical studies of surface plasmon polariton analogues of the Goos-Hanchen effect and of Young's double-slit experiment.
Chemical delivery systems: evaluation of physicochemical properties and enzymatic stability of phenylephrone derivatives.

The physicochemical properties and enzymatic stability of esters of phenylephrone, synthesized on the basis of the chemical delivery system (CDS) concept, were studied as a new class of mydriatic agents. Potentiometrically determined ionization constants (pKa) of the novel compounds were in the range 7.19–7.21. The three esters of phenylephrone (isovaleryl, phenylacetyl, and pivalyl) were more lipophilic than phenylephrone as indicated by n-octanol/pH 7.4 buffer partition coefficients (log Papp) and the chromatographic capacity factors (log k′). The chemical stability of the esters of phenylephrone was evaluated in hydrochloric acid, citrate, and phosphate buffers (with pH ranging between 2.0 and 8.0), and the enzymatic hydrolysis in rat and human plasma. The samples were analyzed using HPLC assay procedures. The phenylephrone esters were found to undergo comparatively slow hydrolytic degradation in buffer with pH 3.0 and 4.0, with half-lives ranging from 1136 to 1980 hr at 37°C. The novel esters were rea...
The success of thoracoscopic anterior fusion in a consecutive series of 112 pediatric spinal deformity cases.

Study design A retrospective review of a single surgeon consecutive series of video-assisted thoracoscopic anterior release and fusion. Objectives To examine radiographic fusion rates and standard radiographic parameters of spinal deformity correction, as well as to identify possible complications of thoracoscopic anterior release and fusion in patients with a minimum of 2-year follow-up treated for spinal deformity. Summary of background data Anterior release and fusion of the thoracic spine is indicated in the treatment of rigid scoliosis and kyphosis, the treatment or prevention of crankshaft growth, and in patients at increased risk for pseudarthrosis. Although early postoperative outcomes of video-assisted thoracoscopic anterior release/fusion exist in the literature, few data are available with follow-up greater than 2 years. Methods A retrospective chart and radiograph review of 112 consecutive cases of thoracoscopic anterior release/fusion with open posterior instrumentation/fusion was performed. The diagnosis, indications, perioperative data, as well as early and delayed complications, were evaluated. Deformity correction and intervertebral fusion rates were assessed at latest follow-up (> or =2 years). Results The diagnoses included 50 patients with neuromuscular deformity, 42 with idiopathic deformity, 10 congenital, and 10 miscellaneous etiologies. The average operative time was 160 +/- 41 minutes to excise and bone graft an average of 7 +/- 2 discs, with an average blood loss of 285 +/- 303 cc. The average hospital stay was 9 +/- 5 days. Fourteen percent of the patients had perioperative respiratory complications that varied from atelectasis to chylothorax. There were no long-term complications associated with the anterior surgery. Scoliosis improved from 80 +/- 12 degrees to 36 +/- 17 degrees, and kyphosis from 88 +/- 15 degrees to 60 +/- 20 degrees at latest evaluation (P 50% filling of the disc space) was present radiographically in 75% of the disc spaces with moderate interobserver reliability of the grading system (kappa = 0.49). Conclusion Thoracoscopic anterior release and fusion of the thoracic spine is a safe and effective procedure when combined with posterior instrumentation and fusion. The primary goal of increasing the flexibility of a rigid spine and achieving a solid arthrodesis occurred in the vast majority of cases.
Age difference in political decision making: Strategies for evaluating political candidates

To investigate age-related differences in strategies used to evaluate political candidates, an experimental study employed protocol tracing techniques with a computerized information matrix. Forty younger and forty older adults gathered information about and evaluated candidates in national and local elections. Older adults accessed less information but took longer to examine information and make choices. Differences in strategic processing suggest that young adults were more likely to organize their information searches by issues and to eliminate candidates based on issue stances. In contrast, older adults were more likely to organize their information searches by candidates and to engage in satisficing.
Absence of significant age-dependent increase of single-stranded DNA extracted from mouse liver nuclei.

Abstract Possible age-dependent accumulation of physico-chemical changes in purified mouse liver DNA was investigated. Previous reports of another laboratory (Chetsanga et al. , 1977) have indicated the presence and substantial age-dependent increase in the fraction of single-stranded regions in the DNA from three mouse tissues. Using the S 1 nuclease technique for detecting single-stranded DNA sequences, as well as isopycnic density gradient centrifugation and thermal stability analysis, we cannot confirm this result and find no significant change in the double-stranded integrity of purified mouse liver DNA.
Evaluation of Commercial Antisera for Salmonella Serotyping

We compared a set of commercial Salmonella somatic and flagellar serotyping antisera to in-house-prepared antisera from the Microbial Diseases Laboratory, California Department of Public Health, using 327 Salmonella enterica strains belonging to subgroups I, II, IIIa, IIIb, and IV. The sensitivities of Denka Seiken (Tokyo, Japan) somatic and flagellar antisera (using a tube agglutination assay) were 94.0% and 99.2%, respectively, and the specificity was 100% for both sets of sera. Polyvalent O and O1 antiserum sensitivity and specificity were >90%, with the exception of polyvalent O1 antiserum, for which sensitivity was 88.9%. When Denka Seiken flagellar antisera were used in a slide agglutination assay, the sensitivity and accuracy dropped to 88.9% and the specificity fell to 91%. Overall, Denka Seiken commercial antisera performed very well and, together with the comprehensive range of factors available, offer laboratories quality reagents suitable for serotyping strains of salmonellae.
Disorientation of Ne* (2pi [J = 1]) atoms due to He atom collisions in glow discharges at 10 K < T < 3000 K

Quantum close-coupling many-channel calculations based on our model potential proposed in Bahrim and Khadilkar (2009 Phys. Rev. A 79 042715) for the interaction between Ne*(2pi[J = 1]) and He (1s2) atoms in a gaseous mixture at thermal equilibrium are performed in order to analyze the disorientation of the neon atoms induced by helium atoms at temperatures between 10 K and 3000 K. Comparison with experiments of disorientation of the Ne*(2p2) atoms is reported.
Wear in check valves due to flow induced motion

Abstract Experiments showing the frequency and amplitude of the flow induced motion of the gate for a 2- and a 4-in. swing check valve have been performed. The gate motion is due to turbulence in approach flow. We have found the dominant turbulent frequency of the approach flow is about half the natural frequency of the valves. The valves appear to be almost critically damped. Because of this, the valves respond almost as they would to a static force of the magnitude characteristic of the turbulent fluctuation in the flow. Both the dimensionless exciting force and the damping ratio have been found to be independent of valve size so the above statements are true for larger valves also. The recommended valve oscillation amplitudes and frequencies are used to calculate the wear at the shaft and at the stop. For an unpegged check valve, such as one of the 10-in. valves which was used at the San Onofre Nuclear Generation Station, it was found that shaft bearing wear would amount to 0.27 in.3/year and stop wear to 0.03 in.3/year.
Instantaneous frequency estimation using linear prediction with comparisons to the DESAs

Four nonlinear instantaneous frequency estimators are derived by symbolically expressing the output of linear predictive techniques in terms of the input data samples. The estimators are similar in form to the instantaneous frequency estimators associated with the discrete energy separation algorithms (DESAs). The mean absolute error and root mean square error (RMSE) of the new frequency estimators compare favorably with those of the DESAs for a specified class of AM-FM/cosine signals. The new estimators also require fewer computations than the DESA frequency estimators.
Protection of rat hepatocytes from apoptosis by inhibition of c-Jun N-terminal kinase****

Abstract Background. Apoptotic cell death and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) activation occur after hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury. In other cell types, JNK activation was shown to be required for apoptosis. This study tested the hypotheses that JNK contributes to hepatocellular apoptosis, and that inhibition of JNK activity improves cell viability. Methods. Rat hepatocytes were harvested from Sprague-Dawley rats and pretreated with SP600125, a JNK inhibitor. Subsequently, they were exposed to apoptotic stimuli consisting of either the bile salt glycochenodeoxycholic acid (GCDC) or tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and actinomycin D. Results. Western blotting demonstrated specific inhibition of JNK by SP600125. Inhibition of JNK resulted in improved viability measured with crystal violet, decreased in situ DNA nick end labeling positivity, and decreased cleavage of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase and caspase-3. TNF-α and actinomycin D induced apoptosis, upregulated p53, and downregulated expression of the anti-apoptotic protein X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein. These effects were abrogated by JNK inhibition. Conclusion. These data show that pharmacologic inhibition of JNK activity reduces bile salt or TNF-α-induced apoptosis by maintaining expression of anti-apoptotic proteins. The results indicate that JNK is an important component of the apoptosis signaling cascade and suggest a possible therapeutic strategy in certain liver disorders. (Surgery 2003;134:280-4.)
Web-based statics course: Patterns in use and the relation to learning gains

Computer-based learning materials eventually forming an entire online course in statics are presented. The course developed as part of the Carnegie Mellon Open Learning Initiative (OLI) and available to individual learners and institutions, draws upon the authorspsila ongoing work to reorganize statics instruction to better address the conceptual challenges students face. The course is divided into approximately twenty modules, with approximately 60% completed as of fall 2007 (the completion is scheduled for summer 2008). Each module is based on a set of carefully articulated learning objectives and contains expository text and various interactive exercises and simulations. Assessment is tightly integrated within each module, with students confronting frequently interspersed formative and summative assessments, that offer hints and feedback. This paper reports on the effectiveness of these on-line materials as they have been integrated into a statics class. Paper and pencil pre- and post-tests have been administered which capture essential conceptual knowledge and skills presented in the modules. By analyzing log files maintained by the system, patterns of studentspsila usage of the on-line materials can be traced. This usage is compared with progress as measured by the pre-post tests.
Predicting contaminant transport along quartz veins above the water table in a mica-schist saprolite

Abstract Saprolite, thoroughly weathered bedrock, is a porous material that can be used treat wastewater. The inherited veins and fractures in saprolite have been suspected of being capable of transmitting the wastes to ground water. This study evaluated the time of travel of a Br− solute through a large quartz vein in a mica schist saprolite. Four 150 by 150 cm drainfields were constructed over a saprolite that contained a single quartz vein that was 45 cm wide and continuous across the site. Following saturation of the saprolite, a Br− tracer and blue-colored dye were applied for a period sufficient for the tracer to leach 30 or 40 cm. Saturated hydraulic conductivity was determined for each drainfield by measuring water intake and also by using the compact constant-head permeameter. The drainfields were then excavated to 90 cm, the dye pattern mapped and soil samples collected for Br− analysis. Dye patterns below the drainfields indicated that virtually no preferential flow along the vein occurred. Depth of dye penetration within the matrix and vein appeared similar. Deeper penetration did occur along root channels, which extended to 80 cm. There was no significant difference (P=0.10) in depth of Br− penetration in saprolite with and without quartz veins. A simple time of travel model predicted maximum depth of solute movement accurately when no preferential flow occurred. These results showed that large quartz veins that contain clay or Fe–Mn oxides between the quartz gravels will conduct water at a rate that is similar to that found for the saprolite matrix. Such veins pose no apparent hazard to wastewater disposal.
NIDCAP: testing the effectiveness of a relationship-based comprehensive intervention.

Research success means discovery of an orderly pattern that had not been recognized previously. The first Newborn Individualized Developmental Care and Assessment Program (NIDCAP) investigation in 1986, a small phase-lag trial, was dismissed because of design shortcomings.1 Nevertheless, it inspired some investigators. More rigorous trials soon followed and bore out the initial study's results.2–12 A recent randomized, controlled trial (RCT) with the largest sample to date (∼160 infants) from Leiden, Netherlands,13 did not show the benefits of this program as previously reported in multiple publications. What might account for this surprising failure to reject the null hypothesis? Several points are worthy of consideration: ∼15 infants total were newly enrolled every month in this study (ie, ∼2 new intervention group infants per week), which is an extraordinary number of infants in a small unit in which NIDCAP is not standard of care and represents a Herculean task. Weekly observations and report formulations constitute only a small part of NIDCAP. The relationship with each family and staff is the most important aspect of NIDCAP. … Address correspondence to Heidelise Als, PhD, Children's Hospital Boston, Neurobehavioral Infant and Child Studies, Enders Pediatric Research Building, En107, 320 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115. E-mail: heidelise.als{at}childrens.harvard.edu or gloria.mcanulty{at}childrens.harvard.edu
Trace Metal and Major Ion Inputs into the Olentangy River from an Urban Storm Sewer

Trace metal clean techniques were used to sample and analyze the input of dissolved trace metals, major ions, and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) from a storm sewer along an urban highway in Columbus, OH. The outfall, draining a 3.6 ha sewershed with 100% impermeable surface area, discharges into the Olentangy River. Dissolved Pb (average concentration of 3 nM) and dissolved Zn (average concentration of 127 nM) were found to be much lower in concentration than reported in previous investigations of dissolved metals in urban stormwater runoff. Average concentrations of dissolved Cr (1 μM), Ni (0.087 μM), and Cu (0.33 μM) were similar to those reported in previous studies. The storm sewer is shown to be a significant source of V, Ni, and Zn to the river. The outfall is also a significant source of Na, NH4, Cl, and DOC. The storm sewer input is depleted in NO2 and NO3 as compared to the river, reflecting the highly agricultural land use of the watershed upstream of the sewershed. Input from the storm sewer is...