cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Blended learning in computing education: It’s here but does it work?

Blended learning, a combination of face-to-face and computer-assisted pedagogy, is gaining acceptance at universities as an alternative learning experience. Modern technology has given faculty new ways to incorporate active learning and increase student engagement in their courses. Although the broad history of technology-enhanced coursework has demonstrated that student learning is usually very comparable to what occurs in traditional coursework, recent studies focusing specifically on blended learning in totally redesigned classes report positive results. Were those positive results due to the online blending or to the redesign of the class? To answer this question and other limitations and challenges in past studies, the authors present their unique research that measures learning in a blended undergraduate management information systems course where identical classes were compared, one being all face-to-face and one being one-third online. By varying only course modality, this research answers the question of whether blended learning is a superior learning environment in an undergraduate MIS class, a second-level MIS class covering ERP, business processes, databases, advanced spreadsheets, and data analytics. Collecting both quantitative and qualitative data, the authors use a critical realism lens to create a mechanism for learning. Quantitative data, analyzed by multiple regression models and qualitative data, analyzed by content analysis lead to the outcome that learning is comparable to traditional coursework, grade-wise, but students prefer face-to-face class time. It also reveals that self-regulatory skills are evident, confirming that blended learning can aid in the construction of learning.
"The English Effect" on Amish Language and Literacy Practices

Using Jack Goody and Ian Watt’s theory of literacy as a normalizing agent, I show how the presence of the English language and “English Only” values and policies have affected the Amish and their home language, Pennsylvania Dutch, and their religious language, “High” German. These changes are seen as detrimental to the Amish who, like linguistic scholars William Labov, John E. Joseph, and Joshua A. Fishman, equate language with identity.
Does Elective Sternal Plating in Morbidly Obese Patients Reduce Sternal Complication Rates

Background Although the literature shows rigid plate fixation has superior outcomes over wire cerclage techniques, a patient population clearly benefitting from initial sternal plating over standard closure has not been identified. Data on plating as primary sternal closure in the morbidly obese patient remains sparse. Methods A single-center retrospective study was performed on 564 consecutive patients undergoing complete median sternotomy from July 2014 to July 2017. Postoperative outcomes of patients with a body mass index of 35 kg/m2 or more were compared between sternotomies with standard wire cerclage closure and those with sternal plate reinforcement. The primary endpoint was postoperative sternal complication defined as deep sternal wound infection, acute sternal dehiscence, chronic sternal disunion, or noninfectious sternal wound complication requiring operative intervention. Results In all, 32.6% of sternotomies (184 of 564) were performed on patients with a body mass index of 35 kg/m2 or greater. Of this group, 31.5% (58 of 184) underwent sternal closure with titanium plate reinforcement and 68.5% (126 of 184) underwent traditional chest closure. The overall sternal complication rate was 4.9% (9 of 184), consisting of 6 of 126 nonplated patients and 3 of 58 plated patients (4.8% vs 5.2%, P = .80). Conclusions Sternal plate reinforcement for sternotomy closure of patients with a body mass index 35 kg/m2 or greater produced no difference in postoperative sternal complication rates.
Proline-Rich Acidic Protein 1 (PRAP1) Protects the Gastrointestinal Epithelium From Irradiation-Induced Apoptosis.

Abstract Background & Aims The intestinal epithelium must be resilient to physiochemical stress in order to uphold the physiological barrier separating the systemic compartment from the microbial and antigenic components of the gut lumen. Identifying proteins that mediate protection and enhancing their expression is therefore a clear approach to promote intestinal health. We previously reported that oral ingestion of the probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) not only induced the expression of several recognized cytoprotective factors in the murine colon, but also many genes with no previously described function, including the gene encoding proline rich acidic protein-1 (PRAP1). PRAP1 is a protein highly expressed in the epithelium of the gastrointestinal tract and we sought to define its function in this tissue. Methods Purified preparations of recombinant PRAP1 were analyzed biochemically and PRAP1 antisera were used to visualize localization in tissues. Prap1-/- mice were characterized at baseline and challenged with total body irradiation and lastly, enteroids were generated to recapitulate the irradiation challenge ex vivo. Results PRAP1 is a 17 kDa intrinsically disordered protein with no recognizable sequence homology. PRAP1 expression levels were high in the epithelia of the small intestine. While Prap1-/- mice presented only mild phenotypes at baseline, they were highly susceptible to intestinal injury upon challenge. After irradiation the Prap1-/- mice exhibited dramatically higher mortality rates with a significant increase in apoptosis and p21 expression in the small intestinal epithelium. Conclusions PRAP1 is an intrinsically disordered protein highly expressed by the gastrointestinal epithelium and functions at exposed surfaces to protect the barrier from oxidative insult.
COVID-19 Airway Management Isolation Chamber.

ObjectiveDuring the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19), health care workers are innovating patient care and safety measures. Unfortunately, many of these are not properly tested for efficacy. The obje...
Extension of crystallographic groups by or

In this paper, we develop the theory for classifying all pairs such that is an n-space group and N is a normal subgroup of such that is infinite cyclic or infinite dihedral, up to isomorphism.
Silent and formidable foe: neuroendocrine tumours of the gallbladder

Neuroendocrine neoplasms of the gallbladder occur infrequently, with the diagnosis being incidental in most cases. We present a case of an 81-year-old African American woman who initially presented with acute suppurative cholecystitis, found on pathology to have a moderately differentiated infiltrating adenocarcinoma. A partial hepatic resection with periportal lymph node dissection was planned which was subsequently aborted intraoperatively due to the presence of diffuse carcinomatosis. Pathology of the cancerous lesions revealed neuroendocrine carcinoma. Gallbladder neuroendocrine tumours demonstrate no specific clinical features. Given its often late presentation, neuroendocrine tumours of the gallbladder pose a therapeutic and prognostic challenge.
Evaluation of calcium to phosphorus ratio in spot urine samples as a practical method to monitor phosphorus intake adequacy in sows.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the reliability of using Ca to P ratio measured in spot urine samples to assess P intake adequacy in gestating and lactating sows. A total of 36 sows were fed one of six concentrations of dietary total P (0.40, 0.48, 0.56, 0.64, 0.72, 0.80%) from day 7.5 + 1 after breeding until the end of lactation (day 26.6 + 1). Dietary Ca to P ratio was maintained constant across treatments at 1.25. Total 24-hour urine samples were collected in mid and late gestation (days 77.1 + 2 and 112.4 + 1), and early and late lactation (days 4.5 + 1 and 18.2 + 1). In parallel to 24-hour collections, spot urine samples were collected at three different times (early morning, late morning, and late afternoon) in late gestation and late lactation. Urine Ca and P concentrations were measured and Ca to P ratio was calculated. Sows were classified as P-adequate or P-deficient according to dietary P intake. Urine Ca to P ratio was greater in sows fed P-deficient diets than sows fed P-adequate diets (P < 0.001). Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves were used to determine the cut-off values for urine Ca to P ratio to predict P intake adequacy. Three different categories of P intake were defined according to urine Ca to P ratio: deficient, adequate, and excessive. The area under the ROC for Ca to P ratio was 0.88 (95% CI 0.81 - 0.95). Best cut-off value of urine Ca to P ratio was 1.5 (sensitivity 94% and specificity 68%) to identify sows fed P-deficient diets and 0.5 for P-excessive diets (sensitivity 82% and specificity 82%). A strong relationship between Ca to P ratio in 24-hour and spot urine samples was determined (r = 0.93, P < 0.01), independent of physiological state and collection time of spot samples (adjusted-R 2 = 0.86, P < 0.01). The degree of agreement between spot and 24-hour urine for P intake adequacy, assessed by Cohen's weighted kappa analysis, was substantial (0.78, 95% CI 0.69 - 0.88). We conclude that urinary Ca to P ratio provides a reliable prediction of the adequacy of P intake in reproducing sows. Urinary Ca to P ratio measurements in random spot urinary offers a practical method to determine dietary P adequacy.
Structure of a dimer of the Sulfolobus solfataricus MCM N-terminal domain reveals a potential role in MCM ring opening

Cells strongly regulate DNA replication to ensure genomic stability and prevent several diseases, including cancers. Eukaryotes and archaea strictly control DNA-replication initiation by the regulated loading of hexameric minichromosome maintenance (MCM) rings to encircle both strands of the DNA double helix followed by regulated activation of the loaded rings such that they then encircle one DNA strand while excluding the other. Both steps involve an open/closed ring transformation, allowing DNA strands to enter or exit. Here, the crystal structure of a dimer of the N-terminal domain of Sulfolobus solfataricus MCM with an intersubunit interface that is more extensive than in closed-ring structures, while including common interactions to enable facile interconversion, is presented. It is shown that the identified interface could stabilize open MCM rings by compensating for lost interactions at an open neighbor interface and that the prior open-ring cryo-EM structure of MCM loading has a similar extended interface adjacent to its open interface.
A complex dynamic systems approach to the design and evaluation of teacher professional development

Although teachers’ learning has been increasingly recognised as nonlinear and contextually responsive, few studies have extended these understandings to the design and evaluation of professional de...
Environmental Assessment for the Construction and Operation of the Constellation Program A-3 Test Stand

This document is an environmental assessment that examines the environmental impacts of a proposed plan to clear land and to construct a test stand for use in testing the J-2X rocket engine at simulated altitude conditions in support of NASA's Constellation Program.
Effect of nutritional stress on plant composition

Nutritional stress imposed on the alfalfa plant by an inadequate supply of sulfur altered the course of changes in composition which normally accompany its ontogenetic development. Of the constituents examined the greatest alteration occurred in the “amide” nitrogen (asparagine) fraction. During the course of development of plants well supplied with sulfur the level of this nitrogen fraction decreased but in the sulfur-deficient plant it increased. Among the sugars the effect of greatest magnitude appeared to be the almost complete absence of glucose in the stems of young plants not receiving adequate sulfur. Subsequent tests have revealed that the divergence is even more dramatic if only the upper stems are used for this comparison since the reducing sugars normally are most abundant in this part of the plant. The relationship of sulfur deficiency to the occurrence of sucrose and fructose appeared to be less intimate. The presence of these sugars in sulfur-deficient plants was always indicated but at subnormal levels. Throughout the course of ontogenetic development the fluctuations in sucrose and fructose followed a pattern similar to that shown in the sulfur-adequate plants.
On the complexity of the integral closure

The computation of the integral closure of an affine ring has been the focus of several modern algorithms. We will treat here one related problem: the number of generators the integral closure of an affine ring may require. This number, and the degrees of the generators in the graded case, are major measures of cost of the computation. We prove several polynomial type bounds for various kinds of algebras, and establish in characteristic zero an exponential type bound for homogeneous algebras with a small singular locus.
Separation Processes, Introduction

The article contains sections titled: 1. Introduction 2. Definitions 3. Process Configurations 4. Separation Principles 5. Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Separation Methods 6. Selection of a Separation Process 7. Factors Influencing Phase Equilibria 8. Sources of Equilibrium Data
Advocacy Research in Harm Reduction Drug Policies

Harm reduction now has a strong foundation in scientific evidence and is widely accepted in many countries as national policy and much of the worlds scientific community, including leading U.S. and international public-health, e.g. The US National Academy of Medicine, the American Medical Association, the European Union, and the WHO. Nonetheless its impact in official U.S. policies and practices remains minimal. In this chapter, two harm reduction case studies are presented: one about needle-exchange programs for intravenous drug users and the about methadone treatment programs for heroin addiction. These studies suggest how, in order to improve impact, research questions must be strategically chosen. and presented. Such research should support our ability to implement HR policies in practice and make public-health officials more accountable for their opposition to HR, using the mounting body of evidence supportive of HR to support changing those positions. Both of these cases demonstrate the possibilities (and limitations) of advocacy research where science speaks truth to political power.
Land Use and Climate Change: Is it Time for a National Land Use Policy?

During the past few years it has become apparent that the challenge of climate change requires us to rethink fundamental aspects of the way we live. Already we have focused on the power industry, the way we fuel our cars, and the extent to which we may conserve power through green buildings and more efficient lighting. This opinion piece asks us to consider another step in the process: the development of a national land use policy to restrict sprawl and encourage more energy-efficient land use patterns. Traditional land use policy is based on Euclidean zoning that separates land uses and encourages sprawl. Land use regulation is fragmented in the hands of thousands of local governments. The American Planning Association has argued that the division of metropolitan areas into individual autonomous regulatory kingdoms defeats rational planning and leads to sprawl, traffic congestion, and environmental degradation. Once land is developed along low-density suburban patterns, reliance on mass transportation is doomed and auto dependency is guaranteed. The paper suggests that we consider development of a national land use policy that sets goals or perhaps standards and guidelines for smart growth programs nationwide, with federal funding for states that choose to abide by these prescriptions.
Echocardiographic Parameters of Right Ventricular Diastolic Function in Repaired Tetralogy of Fallot Are Associated with Important Findings on Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

Background Right ventricular (RV) dilation, RV dysfunction, RV outflow tract obstruction, and branch pulmonary artery stenosis are risk factors associated with the need for future surgical or catheter-based intervention commonly assessed by cardiac magnetic resonance in patients with tetralogy of Fallot who have undergone initial repair. The ability of echocardiography to predict the presence of these risk factors is limited. Objective We aimed to determine the association between echocardiographic parameters of right ventricular diastolic dysfunction and risk factors for intervention as identified on cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR). Design We reviewed all echocardiograms and CMRs performed at our institution within 1 year of each other in patients with repaired tetralogy of Fallot. We evaluated patients for the following: RV systolic dysfunction (RV ejection fraction <45%), RV dilation (right ventricular end-diastolic volume ≥160 mL/m2), and RV obstruction (RV outflow tract gradient ≥3 m/s by echocardiogram or branch pulmonary artery stenosis assessed by CMR). We evaluated for associations between the above CMR findings and echocardiographic parameters of diastolic function. Results CMR and echocardiographic images performed between March 2007 and March 2012 were available in 99 patients. RV obstruction was associated with lower E/A ratio (P = .02), E/A reversal (P = .02), and prograde end diastolic pulmonary flow (P < .01). Low tricuspid annular a′ and low septal s′ were associated with lower RV ejection fraction (P < .01, P < .01). Elevated E/e′ was associated with higher RV end diastolic volume (P = .04). In predicting the presence of any of the evaluated risk factors for future intervention, TV E/e′ ≥4.7 had positive predictive value (PPV) of 86% and negative predictive value (NPV) of 50%, TV E/A reversal had PPV of 89% and NPV of 34, and prograde end diastolic pulmonary flow on echocardiogram had PPV of 91% and NPV of 38%. Conclusions Echocardiographic parameters of diastolic dysfunction have a reasonable PPV but poor NPV for predicting clinically significant risk factors identified by CMR.
Crystal Growth and Lasing Performance of Cr-Doped LiCaF6 and LiSrAlF6 Crystals

Growth and flashlamp pumped lasing of Cr3+ doped LiCaAlF6 (LiCAF) and LiSrAlF6 (LiSAF) are described. Cr:LiSAF is found to be efficient and tunable from 780 to 1010 nm.
Quantitative and Immunologic Aspects of the Handling of 2,4 Dinitrophenyl Guinea Pig Albumin by Macrophages

Studies correlating quantitative aspects of the handling of dinitrophenyl guinea pig albumin (DNP-GPA) by guinea pig macrophages with the potential of cell-associated antigen to initiate proliferation of immune T lymphocytes have examined the nature of immunologically relevant antigen. After the loss of 75% of cell-bound DNP-GPA during the first 24 hr of in vitro culture, the remaining antigen persists qualitatively unchanged throughout further culture. However, coincident immunogenicity of the macrophage-associated DNP-GPA progressively decreases, suggesting loss of accessibility of the antigen to responding immune lymphocytes. There is a small, stable, surface antigen pool but these studies suggest that the immunologically critical fraction of DNP-GPA, as regards guinea pig T cell activation, is resistant to trypsinization and inaccessible to antibody.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of the 2011 New Patent "First-to-File" System

This paper examines the perceived advantages and disadvantages of the new patent law or change that shifts the patenting system of the United States from a first-to-invent to a first-to-file system. The author briefly describes the historical process of filing a patent as based on the “first-to-invent” system, and then explores and defines the change in patent law which occurred under the America Invents Act (AIA) of 2011, and which has come to be known as a “first-to-file” system. The advantages and disadvantages of this new patent law filing system are explored relative to the challenges of the former “first-to-invent” system. Finally, the author deliberates on its potential and future impact given current competitive, economic, legal, and political challenges. Keywords : America Invents Act (AIA), Entrepreneurship, First-to-file system, First-to-invent system, Nonobvious, Novel, Patent law, Patent, U.S. Constitution, Useful, U.S. Patent Act, U.S. Code, United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
A new look at age and area: the geographic and environmental expansion of genera during the Ordovician Radiation

Although available paleobiological data indicate that the geographic ranges of marine species are maintained throughout their entire observable durations, other evidence suggests, by contrast, that the ranges of higher taxa expand as they age, perhaps in association with increased species richness. Here, I utilize a database of Ordovician genus occurrences collected from the literature for several paleocontinents to demonstrate that a significant aging of the global biota during the Ordovician Radiation was accompanied by a geographic and environmental expansion of genus ranges. The proportion of genera occurring in two or more paleocontinents in the database, and two or more environmental zones within a six-zone onshore-offshore framework, increased significantly in the Caradocian and Ashgillian. Moreover, widespread genera tended to be significantly older than their endemic counterparts, suggesting a direct link between their ages and their environmental and geographic extents. Expansion in association with aging was corroborated further by demonstrating this pattern directly among genera that ranged from the Tremadocian through the Ashgillian. Taken together, these results are significant not only for what they reveal about the kinetics of a major, global-scale diversification, but also for what they suggest about the interpretation of relationships between diversity trends at the alpha (within-community) and beta (between-community) levels.
Arsenate adsorption onto iron oxide amended rice husk char.

Abstract In this study, rice husks were charred at 550 °C in a partially sealed ceramic vessel for 30 minutes to create a high specific surface area (SSA) rice husk char (RHC). The RHC was then amended with iron oxides using dissolved ferric nitrate, Fe(NO 3 ) 3 ⋅ 9H2O, to provide a surface chemistry conducive to arsenic adsorption. The 550 °C iron oxide amended rice husk char’s (550 IOA-RHC’s) SSA was nearly 2.5 orders of magnitude higher and the arsenate adsorptive level was nearly 2 orders of magnitude higher than those reported for iron oxide amended sand, thus indicating a positive relationship between post-amendment SSA and arsenate adsorptive levels. Rice husks were then charred at temperatures ranging from 450 °C to 1050 °C to create an even higher SSA material, which might further increase arsenate adsorptive levels. The 950 °C RHC was chosen for amendment due to its high SSA and feasibility of being produced in the field. Once amended, the 950 °C iron oxide amended rice husk char (950 IOA-RHC) improved the arsenate adsorption capacity by thus confirming a positive relationship, though not a linear relationship, between post-amendment SSA and arsenic adsorptive capacity. Further study demonstrated that post-amendment mesoporous volume and mesoporous surface area appear to be better indicators of arsenic adsorptive capacity than SSA or iron content.
Co-Adaptive Behavior Algorithms for Insurgent and Counter-Insurgent Techniques in Combat Simulations

This paper proposes an overall strategy and technical approach that allows development of sophisticated behavior algorithms which model insurgent and counter-insurgent techniques in military combat simulations. This capability will allow Department of Defense force providers to estimate, in a combat model, the effects of different approaches to counter-insurgency operations, reconstruction operations, stability operations, and information operations. The overall approach proposes development of robust application programming interfaces that can be employed in several different combat simulations. In a phased strategy, technical development will first focus on task-level behaviors. It will then shift to short-term planning behaviors and long-term planning behaviors. These planning behaviors will make significant use of geospatial reasoning and course of action analysis via simulation. It will also consider civilian behaviors as they relate to supporting either the insurgents or the government security forces. Armed with these simulation capabilities, the military services will be able to make better decisions about the proper mix of forces, equipment, and tactics to provide for use in the different theaters of operation.
Local structural fluctuations and defects in metallic glasses

Abstract The atomic short range order in liquid and amorphous metals is most often described by the atomic pair distribution function. However, the local variation in properties and the structural defects are better described in terms of more collective structural parameters. It is suggested that the concept of the local structure including all the nearest neighbors provides the most useful description of the local short range order. In particular the method based upon the atomic-level stresses is able to describe satisfactorily the glass transition, structural relaxation and defects. The theory incorporates the free volume as one of the thermal defects, while other types of thermal defects also exist. Furthermore the feasibility of the existence of extended athermal defects is discussed.
Evidence for primitive nebular components in chondrules from the Chainpur chondrite

In view of the fact that the least equilibrated ordinary chondrites contain chondrules that have changed little since the time of their formation in the early solar system, and are therefore excellent indicators of the physical and chemical nature of the solar nebula, 36 chondrules were separated from the Chainpur chondrite and analyzed for 20 elements and petrographic properties. The dominant nebular components found are: (1) a mixture of metal and sulfide whose composition is similar to whole rock metal and sulfide, (2) Ir-rich metal, (3) olivine-rich silicates, (4) pyroxene-rich silicates, and possibly (5) a component containing the more volatile lithophiles. Although etching experiments confirm that chondrule rims are enriched in metal, troilite and moderately volatile elements relative to the bulk chondrules, a large fraction of the volatiles remains in the unetched interior.
Surface ultrastructure of tissue cultured keratinocytes.

The surface ultrastructure of human epidermal keratinocytes was examined by the thin metal replication of tissue cultured keratinocytes. The cell surface ultrastructure of a large number of keratinocytes at various stages of maturation could best be observed in mono- or thin-layer culture. Young premature keratinocytes (basaloid cells) were found to bear numerous slender villi at the advancing border as well as on the cell surface. These villi branched frequently. As cells matured to become Malpighian-like cells, the number of villi diminished and individual villi became shorter. Two or three villi emerged from one common stem. Completely keratinized cells appeared as polygonal scalelike cells usually situated on top of villi-bearing cells. These cells bore few or no surface villi but the surface was covered with ridges and furrows. Fibroblasts in the same culture showed a number of threadlike villi at the periphery but few on the surface.
Surgical management of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Purpose To examine possible differences in clinical outcomes between pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and scleral buckling (SB) for uncomplicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). Design Meta-analysis. Participants Adult patients with uncomplicated RRD from previously reported randomized controlled trials of PPV and SB. Methods A comprehensive literature search using the Cochrane Collaboration methodology to identify randomized controlled trials comparing PPV with SB for uncomplicated RRD. Main Outcome Measures Analysis was divided into phakic and pseudophakic/aphakic patients. Primary outcome parameters included proportion of primary reattachment and difference of means of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at 6 months or more between the PPV and SB groups. Secondary outcome parameters included the proportion of secondary reattachment and complications between the PPV and SB groups. Results Seven studies were identified and analyzed for comparing PPV (636 eyes) with SB (670 eyes) for uncomplicated RRD. In the phakic group, there were no significant differences in the proportion of primary reattachments (odds ratio [OR], 1.00; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.69–1.46) or secondary reattachments (OR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.34–2.87) between the PPV and SB groups. Meta-analysis showed a statistically significant difference in the logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) BCVA at 6 months between the PPV-treated and SB-treated phakic eyes (mean deviation, 0.14; 95% CI, 0.06–0.21; P P = 0.03) between the PPV and SB groups in pseudophakic/aphakic eyes. Meta-analysis showed a statistically significant rate of cataract progression in the PPV group (OR, 4.11; 95% CI, 2.70–6.25; P Conclusions There were no significant differences in the proportions of primary reattachment in the PPV and SB groups in phakic eyes. The SB-treated phakic eyes had better postoperative BCVA at 6 months or more. This is most likely related to higher rates of cataract progression in PPV-treated phakic eyes. There were no significant differences in proportions of primary reattachment and postoperative BCVA at 6 months or more in pseudophakic/aphakic eyes. Financial Disclosure(s) The author(s) have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article.
Cyclic AMP stimulates Ca2+-ATPase-mediated Ca2+ extrusion from human platelets

Abstract The effect of cAMP on active Ca2+ extrusion across the plasma membrane of intact human platelets was studied using quin2, a fluorimetric indicator of free Ca2+ in the cytoplasmic compartment ([Ca2+]cy1). Elevations of cAMP were achieved by incubation with dibutyryl-cAMP or by forskolin, which was found to selectively elevate cAMP without affecting cGMP levels. Progress curves of Ca2+ extrusion from quin2-overloaded platelets were measured. The rate vs. [Ca2+]cyt characteristic was calculated as previously described (Johansson, J.S. and Haynes, D.H. (1988) J. Membr. Biol. 104, 147–163). Forskolin, at a maximally effective concentration of 10 μM, was shown to stimulate Ca2+ extrusion by increasing by a factor of 1.6 ± 0.5 the Vm of a saturable component, previously identified with a Ca2+ Mg2+-ATPase located in the plasma membrane. Neither the Km (80 nM) or Hill coefficient (1.7 ± 0.3) of the Ca2+-ATPase was affected. Forskolin had no effect on the linear, non-saturable component of extrusion (previously identified with a Na+/Ca2+ exchanger) over the [Ca2+]cyt range examined (50–1500 nM), Dibutyryl-cAMP (Bt2-cAMP, 1 mM) stimulated the Ca2+ Mg2+-ATPase component of Ca2+ extrusion by a factor of 2.0 ± 0.6. Separate experiments showed that 10 μM forskolin reduces the resting [Ca2+]cyt from 112 nM to 96 nM. Mathematical analysis showed that this can be accounted for by the above-mentioned increase in Vm of the pump, countered by a 37–74% increase in the rate constant for passive Ca2+ leakage across the plasma membrane. The results suggest two mechanisms by which prostacyclin-induced elevation of cAMP inhibits platelet aggregation: (a) lowering of resting [Ca2+]cyt and (b) increasing the rate of Ca2+ extrusion after the initial influx or triggered release event.
Controlling the radical 5-exo-trig cyclization, and selective synthesis of seco-iso-cyclopropylfurano[e]indoline (seco-iso-CFI) and seco-cyclopropylthiophene[e]indoline (seco-CTI) DNA alkylating subunit of the duocarmycins

Abstract The free radical cyclization of benzofuran bromo-allylic chloride 6 in toluene produced an unpredicted mixture of 6-benzyloxy- N - t -Boc-3-(chloromethyl)furano[e]indoline ( 1 ) and 7-benzyloxy- N -Boc-3-(chloromethyl)furano[ f ]quinoline ( 2 ). DFT calculations indicated that the indoline radical ( 6B ), formed from 5- exo-trig closure of intermediate 6A , was less polar than the corresponding quinoline radical ( 6C ). Based on this result, we report herein that cyclization of chlorides 6 – 8 in a polar aromatic solvent consistently and exclusively produced the indoline product in good yield (74–83%).
Affective and cognitive antecedents to eating episodes in bulimia and binge eating

The present study investigated seven antecedents to the binge-purge cycle proposed by Orleans and Barnett (1984), including restraint, stress, mood, thoughts of food, fatigue, hunger, and dichotomous cognitions. For 1 week, 19 bulimics, 15 binge eaters, and 20 normal control subjects recorded detailed information about these antecedent conditions and the types and quantities of food consumed for each eating episode. Results indicated that prior to their binge episodes, bulimics reported significantly greater stress, preoccupation with food, and negative mood than binge eaters reported prior to their binges and normal controls reported prior to all of their eating episodes. Both bulimics and binge eaters reported greater dichotomous cognitions prior to binge episodes than normal controls experienced prior to all of their eating episodes. Comparisons of the antecedents to eating episodes which bulimics and binge eaters regarded as nonbinge episodes with all eating episodes of the control group indicated that although bulimics and binge eaters experienced significantly greater negative moods than normal controls prior to their nonbinge episodes, only bulimics experienced significantly greater dichotomous cognitions prior to these eating episodes. Theoretical and clinical implications of these findings are discussed.
Recent advances in island and multilayer growth of metals on metals far from equilibrium

In recent years, the study of growth of metal-on-metal homoepitaxial and heteroepitaxial films under far-from-equilibrium conditions (low substrate temperature and/or high deposition rate) has yielded quite surprising results. Under these conditions local thermodynamic equilibrium is not achieved, and kinetic influenced growth modes and film properties are often obtained. Here we present a review of a comprehensive study that we just completed on island nucleation and growth, manipulation of growth modes, and kinetic roughening of the heteroepitaxial growth of Pb on Cu(001) at low substrate temperature.
Malate dehydrogenase and non-specific esterase isoenzymes of eggs of the honey bee (Apis mellifera L.)

Abstract 1. 1. Isoelectric focusing on polyacrylamide gels was used to detect malate dehydrogenase and non-specific esterase isoenzymes in diploid honey bee ( Apis mellifera L.) eggs of several known ages. 2. 2. It was determined that the number of MDH and EST isoenzymes increased as development proceeded with an apparent increase in the quantity of some of the isoenzymes.
The paper that completely altered our thinking about cerebral blood flow measurement

Kety SS and Schmidt CF. The determination of cerebral blood flow in man by the use of nitrous oxide in low concentrations. Am J Physiol 143: 53—66, 1945 (http://ajplegacy.physiology.org/cgi/reprint...
Polarization dependence of light transmission through individual nanoapertures in metal films

We present a systematic study of light transmission through individual nanoscale apertures (rectangular slits and circular holes) etched in a 300-nm-thick silver film. Transmission spectra were obtained as functions of aperture shape and size, as well as the wavelength and polarization state of the normally incident light beam. By varying the wavelength of the incident light in the 550–750 nm range and the characteristic dimensions of the apertures from ∼100 nm to 10 μm, a universal behavior of light transmission is revealed. The role of incident polarization and aperture dimensions is investigated in detail, and a clear transition from the geometric regime of light transmission (large apertures) to the subwavelength regime is demonstrated experimentally. A quantitative analysis of the extinction coefficient is reported for rectangular slits, demonstrating that they can act as efficient linear polarizers with extinction ratios >100∶1. Finally, a method to convert far-field to near-field data is developed for circular apertures, revealing the contribution of surface plasmon polaritons to the decrease in light transmission for apertures below the cutoff condition.
Insulin-stimulated phosphorylation of the insulin receptor precursor.

Abstract The α and β subunits of the insulin receptor, Mr=135K and 95K, appear to be synthesized via a single polypeptide precursor of Mr=190K. We have investigated whether insulin stimulates the phosphorylation of this proreceptor, as is the case with mature receptor. Rat liver endoplasmic reticulum membranes were solubilized in Triton X-100 and chromatographed sequentially on wheat-germ agglutinin-agarose and lentil lectin-agarose columns. Phosphorylation of the lentil eluate with [γ32P]ATP revealed an insulin-stimulated phosphoprotein of Mr=192K, which was recognized by anti-receptor antibody, compatible with the receptor precursor. This suggests that further processing of the Mr=190K insulin receptor precursor is not necessary for insulin binding, kinase activation, and receptor phosphorylation.
A Treatment Model for Divorced Single Mothers.

Abstract Many divorced single mothers suffer from psychological, social, parent/child relationship, and economic problems. This paper introduces and tests an eclectic model of psychotherapy aimed at alleviating these problems, as well as what was believed to be an underlying dependency. The model includes both psychodynamic and behavioral techniques, and was used to treat five divorced mothers. A repeated single-subject design was used to evaluate the treatment model.
Using Games to Teach Markov Chains

ABSTRACT Games are promoted as examples for classroom discussion of stationary Markov chains. In a game context Markov chain terminology and results are made concrete, interesting, and entertaining. Game length for several-player games such as Hi Ho! Cherry-O and Chutes and Ladders is investigated and new, simple formulas are given. Slight modifications to Monopoly rules are discussed to fit it into a Markov chain model with the ultimate goal of determining the long-run frequencies for visiting the various game properties.
Two-Dimensional Mesh Embedding for B-spline Methods

Many factors motivate consideration of B-splines as basis functions for solving partial differential equations. These are arbitrary orders of accuracy and high resolving powers similar to those of compact schemes. Furthermore, if one uses a Galerkin scheme one gets, in addition to conservation of the discretized quantities, conservation of quadratic invariants such as energy. This work develops another property, namely, the ability to treat semi-structured embedded or zonal meshes for two-dimensional geometries. This can drastically reduce the number of grid points in many applications. An algorithm is presented for constructing a global spline basis that automatically hasd-1 continuous derivatives at mesh-block boundaries as everywhere else (heredis the polynomial degree). The basis functions are simply suitable products of one-dimensional B-splines. Both integer and noninteger refinement ratios are allowed across mesh blocks. Finally, test cases for linear scalar equations such as the Poisson and advection equation are presented.
Cholesterol substrate pools and steroid hormone levels are normal in the face of mutational inactivation of NPC1 protein.

Mutational inactivation of NPC1 largely blocks the movement of LDL-derived cholesterol from the lysosome to the metabolically active, cytosolic pool of sterol that is the substrate for steroid hormone production. Such a block might, in theory, lead to deficiencies in circulating levels of testosterone, progesterone, and corticosterone. However, there are at least two other sources for cellular cholesterol, de novo synthesis and scavenger receptor class B type I-mediated uptake of HDL cholesteryl ester (CE). In this study, we measured the rates of net cholesterol acquisition by these three pathways in the adrenal, ovary, and testis. In all three organs, the majority (81–98%) of cholesterol acquisition came from the selective uptake of CE from HDL and de novo synthesis. Furthermore, in the npc1−/−mouse, the cytosolic storage pool of CE in a tissue such as the adrenal remained constant (∼25 mg/g). As a result of these alternative pathways, the plasma concentrations of testosterone (3.5 vs. 2.5 ng/ml), progesterone (8.5 vs. 6.7 ng/ml), and corticosterone (391 vs. 134 ng/ml) were either the same or elevated in the npc1−/−mouse, compared with the control animal. Thus, impairment of cholesterol acquisition through the NPC1-dependent, clathrin-coated pit pathway did not limit the availability of cholesterol substrate for steroid hormone synthesis in the steroidogenic cells.
Wetting transition of water droplets on superhydrophobic patterned surfaces

The relationship between water droplet size and surface geometric parameters governs the transition from composite solid–air–liquid interface to homogeneous solid–liquid interface on superhydrophobic surfaces. This study presents the effect of varying droplet size on the wetting properties of patterned Si surfaces. We propose a criterion that the transition from the Cassie–Baxter regime to the Wenzel regime occurs when the droplet droop is greater than the depth of the cavity. The trends are explained based on experimental data and in terms of the proposed transition criterion.
Toward an ionic mechanism of soot particle formation: Reactions between acetylene and tautomeric forms of the C3H3+ ions

Two possible mechanisms have been suggested for the formation of soot in fuel-rich flames. The first of these involves reactions of small radicals, the second of small ions. We examine the latter possibility in this paper. Reactions between C3H3+ ions and acetylene were studied by quantum mechanical methods. The results suggest that the linear propargylium cation reacts without barrier. Cyclic C3H3+ does not readily react with acetylene. These observations are in agreement with FT-ICR experiments that suggest one inactive form of the C3H3+ cation. The properties of five different products of the reactions were studied for possible identifications in experiments on flames and on model flames.
An internal H2O vapor jet target for the IUCF Cooler

Abstract An internal water vapor jet target is used for the study of the 16 O(p, n) 16 F reaction in the Indiana University Cyclotron Facility Cooler storage ring. Water in a copper reservoir is heated to a temperature corresponding to the desired vapor pressure (typically 100 Torr), which determines the flow rate through a de Laval-type nozzle and thus the thickness of the target, typically 10 14 atoms/cm 2 7 mm from the nozzle, where the Cooler beam intercepts the jet. The presence of hydrogen in H 2 O allows for cross section normalization because pp elastic scattering has a relatively large and well known cross section.
Determination of diffusion and permeability coefficients in nerve trunks

A mathematical theory is developed which permits the determination of certain parameters of an inhomogenous tissue, such as a nerve trunk without its epineurium. The parameters are the permeability coefficients for entrance into an exit of a substance from the nerve fibers, and the diffusion coefficient of the interstitial material. The experimental data required are the dimensions of the cross-section, the average diameter of the fibers, and the ratio of the cross-sectional are of the fibers to the total cross-section, as well as the time course of the decrease of the fraction of the substance left in the nerve trunk, when the trunk is immersed in a bathing solution containing none of it.
Cryosurgery for skin cancer: 30-year experience and cure rates.

BACKGROUNDCryosurgery is capable of destroying nonmelanotic skin cancers, and numerous reports from around the world attest to its efficacy. However, there are few long-term data of large series of patients that were treated in this manner.OBJECTIVETo report and evaluate the author's experience of u
The 1,3-dimetalloallyl tri-ruthenium cluster (μ-H)Ru3(μ3-η3-CHCHCMe)(CO)9 and its PPh3 derivatives

Abstract Reactions of Ru3(CO)12 with 1,3-butadiene or cis-2-butene give the μ3-η3dimetalloallyl compound (β-H)Ru3(β3-η3-CHCHCMe)(CO)9 (2). Refluxing 2 with PPh3 gives the CO-substituted products (μ-H)Ru3(μ3--η3 CHCHCMe)(CO)8(PPh3) (3) and (μ3-H)Ru3(μ3-η3-CHCHCMe(CO)7(PPh3)2 (4). Single crystal X-ray diffraction studies of 2, 3 and 4 show that all have the dimetalloallyl unit. These investigations demonstrate that this unit is remarkably stable and might be expected to form on triangular arrays of metal atoms on metal surfaces.
RENAL EXCRETION OF CALCIUM AND PHOSPHORUS IN PSEUDOHYPOPARATHYROIDISM.

Following 4-hr intravenous infusion of calcium in a patient with pseudohypoparathyroidism, 24-hr urinary excretion of phosphorus increased, a response common in hypoparathyroidism. Clearance studies 12 hr after termination of the infusion showed a decrease in renal tubular reabsorption of phosphate from control levels when a total of 2400 U of parathyroid extract had been given during the 3 days preceding the loading test. Intravenous phosphate loading failed to increase tubular reabsorption of phosphate above control levels, but did induce a decrease in serum calcium and an increase in urinary calcium excretion. Chronic administration of parathyroid extract alone had no effect on the tubular reabsorption of phosphate or on the response to phosphate infusion, but it did increase the serum calcium concentration temporarily.
Analysis of architectures for the scientific exploration of Enceladus

In 2007 a JPL Rapid Mission Architecture (RMA) analysis team identified and evaluated a broad set of mission architecture options for a suite of scientific exploration objectives targeting the Saturnian moon Enceladus. Primary science objectives were largely focused on examination of the driving mechanisms and extent of interactions by the plumes of Enceladus recently discovered by Cassini mission science teams. Investigation of the architectural trade space spanned a wide range of options, from high-energy flybys of Enceladus as a re-instrumented expansion on the Cassini mission, to more complex, multi-element combinations of Enceladus orbiters carrying multiple variants of in-situ deployable systems. Trajectory design emerged as a critical element of the mission concepts, enabling challenging missions on Atlas V and Delta IV-Heavy class launch vehicles. Various Enceladus Flagship-class mission concepts identified were analyzed and compared against several first-order figures of merit, including mass, cost, risk, mission timeline, and associated science value with respect to accomplishment of the full set of science objectives. Results are presented for these comparative analyses and the characterization of the explored trade space.